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with soberer stalked shrubs ; the smaller and prettier maples, 

 the viburmims prized for flower or for berries, and many of the 

 novelties from Japan. Masses of rhododendrons and kalmia, 

 and the holly-leaved barberry of the Rocky Mountains, help 

 also to render this retreat a magic scene, in summer's heat or 

 winter's cold. 



It can be seen at a glance, that the close growth of so many 

 shrubs and trees would be injurious to their health and vigor, 

 unless judiciously thinned and trimmed. This has been done 

 on hard and soft wooded kinds alike. Once it was thought 

 that the resinous trees would not patiently bear the knife, but 

 the visitor will see here, solid columns of perennial greenery 

 of different heights, formed by topping and pruning, somewhat 

 after a style of old fashioned gardening known as topiary work. 

 By this process, while novelty of shape is realized, pleasant 

 vistas to the street are opened. 



It will be unnecessary to particularize the other features of 

 this spot, as the remarks of Dr. K. offered to the Society, with 

 better knowledge of details, will do this more satisfactorily. — 

 Suffice it to add, that very many rare and valuable trees of 

 finest proportions, rapid growth and pleasing foliage, were at 

 the time of my visit objects of my notice and admiration. 



The frequent use of thick and substantial hedges for protec- 

 tion and shelter, is deserving a passing remark. The hemlock 

 has been principally used — an evergreen tree, which when 

 young proves admirably adapted to the necessary shearing. — 

 The Norway spruce is another species employed, and produces 

 a fine effect by its compact, solid growth. For screens, the 

 white cedar, cypress or arbor vitse, blended with other trees, 

 has been used. I have before, many years ago, seen the good 

 effect of employing the arbor vitee to make permanent, living 

 and substantial screens from the Northern or Eastern winds. 

 As the belt of a mixed growth of forest trees and evergreens, 

 such as firs, spruce, pine, and hemlock, rises to the spectator's 

 eye above the front planting, and in the rear, the slender and 

 feathery spray of some birch, the tapering column of the fas- 



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