YEW-TREE. 347 



been found in four ounces of sweet-oil, taken at intervals of 

 two hours in warm ale, and after that a pint of salt and water. 



From injurious effects, thus produced, have doubtless 

 originated unfounded suppositions as regards the baneful 

 nature of our foliage. Pliny has transmitted them to pos- 

 terity ; and father to son has handed down the sad tales of 

 Thasius and Cantevateas, mentioned by Csesar. 



Why is it that our stately brotherhood have disappeared 

 from sites that they once occupied ? We may not solve 

 the question, nor can man, with all his boasted wisdom 

 and intelligence. At one time indigenous in Ireland, our 

 widely-spreading branches might have rendered us emble- 

 matic of generous hospitality ; but we are now unknown, 

 our sole remnants being discovered in a fossil state. 



Most trees are found growing in vast numbers. Forests 

 of oaks, and ash, and elm, of beech, and pines, sweep 

 over hill and dale, extending further than the eye can reach 

 or the foot has ever traversed ; but the yew dwells alone, 

 except when congregated by the hand of man ; and yet, 



