FLOWERS. 



39 



number of the Dahlias, for instance, being centered or 

 having imperfections in form and blossom, yet there 

 were many fine specimens of rare and elegant flowers. 

 And while good taste was generally displayed in the 

 arrangement, there was carelessness shown in some 

 instances. In the opinion of the Chairman, though 

 others of the Committee were not in sympathy with the 

 idea, strictly good taste demanded more of green foliage 

 intermixed with the flowers in some instances, thus 

 affording a relief to the glare of many brilliant colors 

 grouped together. Nature uses her greens without 

 stint, and perhaps she is a safe guide in this matter. 



There are two styles of bouquets : the loose, flowing 

 style of construction which appears to be the most 

 natural, though perhaps not so durable or convenient for 

 use, and the compact, firmly tied system. Both have 

 advantages and defects, and both may be made beauti- 

 ful. The latter seems to be the ruling style, of which are 

 found the various works of carpentry, and geometrical 

 forms and figures, as the cone, the temple, the pyra- 

 mid, etc. A bouquet of this character is well enough 

 in its way, and as a piece of artistic skill may be very 

 worthy. But it is artistical and formal, while the 

 former is natural and graceful, easily formed, and should 

 always be found when possible on the sitting room 

 table or mantle. 



We have supposed and still believe that floriculture 

 is receiving increased attention. This is as it should 

 be. And yet we would have clearer proof that this is 

 true of the masses — of him who, toiling upon his lit- 

 tle patch of ground for his daily bread, has hard work 

 to earn the little income which barely furnishes a sup- 

 port, as well as of the man who maintains a magnificent 



