388 NATURE STUDY. 



At this season the ash seeds may occasionally be found, 

 still clinging to the tree. ( See Fig. 33. ) Note where and 

 how they are fastened, how they separate from the mother 

 tree, how they sail away. Gibson ( see his " Sharp Eyes," 

 article "The Ash Paddle and the Birch Bark") suggests 

 that they furnished the Indians the models for their 

 paddles. 



In the linden or basswood (see 

 Fig. 34) the clusters of little 

 spherical seeds, each cluster with 

 a wing, often remain on the tree 

 late in the winter. 



The cones of the spruce, pine, 

 hemlock, and other evergreens fur- 

 nish many winter flyers. If the 



Ft,. 34. UN,.. See s . cones be gathered at this season 

 they will soon open in the warm 



schoolroom, and furnish material for the study of other seed 

 cradles and their winged ^babies. 



THE BURDOCK. 



( "*' \ .' '* ' 



What the Burdock Was Good For. 



" * Good for nothing,' the farmer said, 

 As he made a sweep at the burdock's head 5 

 But then, he thought, it was best, no doubt, 

 To come some day and root her out. 

 So he lowered his scythe, and went his way, 

 To see his corn, or gather his hay ; 

 And the weed grew saf^e, and strong, and tall, 

 Close by the side of the garden wall. 



4 Good for home,' cried the little toad, 

 As he hopped up out of the dusty road. 

 He had just been having a dreadful fright, 

 The boy who gave it was yet in sight. 



