204 THE STRAWBERRY GARDEN. 



in the paths, to keep the berries clean. The rains of 

 winter had beaten the leaves down flat, and they made a 

 smooth, clean carpet over all. This prevented any culti- 

 vation of the soil ; but the advantage gained by keeping the 

 weeds away and the soil moist, more than restored the 

 balance. 



Insensibly, the fresh air and new objects and interests 

 had their effect upon our Mary, and she became brighter 

 and better. 



The spring advanced rapidly, and every plant started 

 into new and active life. As soon as they were fairly 

 started, and about the time the forest trees put forth their 

 leaves, the hydraulics were resorted to frequently with 

 most astonishing results. How the things did grow, to be 

 sure ! Such splendid leaves and sturdy clusters of buds ! 

 Really, the prospect was very encouraging. 



The grapes, too, came in for a share of the attentions of 

 our trio. At the suggestion of Mary, they removed the 

 stakes, and fastened the long base shoots once more to the 

 trellis. It was quite an undertaking, but time and patience 

 are equal to anything. 



The routine of the garden for this spring was very 

 simple. The planting was all done, and, as the strawber- 

 ries occupied every "available foot of ground, the young 

 folks were relieved from all further trouble, and the actual 

 amount of work to be done was extremely small. The 

 mulch kept down the weeds, and beyond this, till the time 



