FOREWORD 



IN writing the following sketches, I have had 

 in mind all to whom such simple thoughts 

 and quiet experiences might appeal, but my 

 dearest hope has been that, to some one in sick 

 room or city pent, these pages might perhaps 

 carry restful little messages from " God's out- 

 of-doors," or pleasing suggestions of woodland 

 friends ; and sharing the thought of one who 

 pleads for the cultivation of sweet herb gardens 

 that through them pleasure may be given to 

 " eyes debarred from any sight of beauty," * I 

 should be glad to think that among these little 

 records there may be found pictures which can 

 be seen by sightless eyes. 



u The grove " is a real place; a goodly heritage 

 that adjoins our own modest estate. Through 

 its refreshing paths we may wander at will, and 

 within its precincts are to be found simple de- 



* Mrs. Alice Morse Earle, in Old-Time Gardens. 



[vii] 



