56 THE BEAUTIES OF APRIL AND MAY. 



way in blossoming, which are followed by the Cherry and 

 the Plum. These form a most agreeable spectacle, as well 

 on account of their beauty as of the promise they give of 

 future benefits. It is, however, an anxious time for the 

 possessor, as the fairest prospect of a plentiful increase 

 is often blighted. Shakspeare draws a pathetic comparison 

 from this circumstance, of the delusive nature of human 

 expectations : 



"This is the state of man ; to-day he puts forth 

 The tender leaves of hope; to-morrow blossoms, 

 And bears his blushing honors thick upon him ; 

 The third day comes a frost, a killing frost, 

 And nips his root.'' 



But we now return to the garden. Before we have time 

 to explore Nature's treasures, many disappear ; among these 

 are the humble Daisy, which shrinks from the intense heat, 

 and the several varieties of Primulas or early spring flowers. 

 The various grades of Polyanthus deserve a close inspec- 

 tion ; these, for a while, exhibit their sparkling beauties, but 

 alas ! soon disappear. Scarcely have we sustained this loss, 

 but in comes the Auricula, and more than retrieves it. Ar- 

 rayed she comes in a splendid variety of amiable forms, 

 with an eye of crystal, and garments of the most glossy 

 satin. A very distinguished procession this ! The favorite 

 care of the florist, but these also soon disappear. Who 

 could forbear grieving at their departure, did not the various 

 sorts of bulbous flowers burst their bands asunder, or rather 

 expand so as to exhibit their fragrance and beauty. 



"Fair-handed Spring 

 Throws out the Snow-drop and the Crocus first, 

 The Daisy, Primrose, Violet darkly blue, 

 And Polyanthus with unumbered dyes. 

 Then comes the Auricula, enriched with shining meal, 

 O'er all their velvet leaves." 



While we reluctantly dispense with the sweet perfumes of 



