CHAPTER X. 



SPANISH CHESTNUT. 



Castanea vesca. 



" Hail, old patrician tree, so great and good ! 

 Hail, ye plebeian underwood, 



Where the poetic birds rejoice, 

 And for their quiet nests, and plenteous food, 



Pay with a grateful voice." Cowley. 



AN old chestnut spoke cheerfully to his young compa- 

 nions. He told them to rejoice in the days wherein their 

 lot was cast. 



You are but of yesterday, my children, he said, and know 

 nothing with regard to the olden times. Listen to me, 

 and my words shall teach you wisdom. 



