MONCECIA POLYANDIIIA. 209 



The charcoal of Hazel is preferred by painters and engra- 

 vers, for the freedom with which it draws, and the readi- 

 ness with which its marks can be rubbed out. The rods 

 are cut to form walking-sticks, stakes, hurdles and bas- 

 kets; and the "divining rod" of DOUSTERSWIVEL was al- 

 ways a hazel. Attracted by the effluvia from the metals 

 concealed beneath the soil, it turned in obedience, and 

 indicated their presence to the sage ! Even within these 

 few years it has been very positively affirmed that the 

 rod, when held in the hands of certain persons, will dis- 

 cover the presence of water ; and it is remarked as extra- 

 ordinary, that no effect is produced at a well or ditch, or 

 where earth does not interpose between the twig and the 

 water. See Quarterly Review, vol. xxii. p. 373-4. The 

 Highlander's belief in the efficacy of two nuts naturally 

 conjoined as a charm against witchcraft, ought not to be 

 laughed at. 



Our Scotch Fir (Pinus sylvestris) is not a native, but was 

 brought from Canada not more than half a century ago. It 

 is very inferior, in every respect, to the real Highland Fir, 

 which may be found in the north of Scotland in immense 

 natural forests, equally distinguished for their romantic 

 beauty and national importance. This last is a noble tree, 

 growing with huge contorted arms, not altogether unlike 

 the Oak, and forming therein a strong contrast to the for- 

 mality of the common fir. Sir W. SCOTT in Quart. Review, 

 vol. xxxvi. p. 580. 



ST PIERRE has an observation somewhat connected 

 with our subject, and so curious, and, we believe, correct, 

 that we shall here introduce it. He says, he never saw 

 the Ivy on the trunks of Pines, Firs, or of other trees 

 whose foliage lasts the whole year round. It invests 

 those only which are stripped by the hand of Winter ; 

 and when its protector has fallen a prey to death, it re- 

 stores to him again the honours of the forest, where he 

 lives no longer. 



