196 



roots of plants when they are removed to a distance ; this is 

 either the last or Hypnum purum. There is another exceed- 

 ingly beautiful and shining species, the branches of which 

 spread out like a feather ; this is the Hypnum proliferum, and 

 is used for ornamental purposes, as by bird-stufFers, &c. 



The unfortunate Mungo Parke was once sitting solitary, 

 toilworn, and despairing on a barren rock, in the interior of 

 Africa, when he was assured and comforted, by seeing growing 

 on the naked stones a minute Moss, which he recognized as 

 one of his own dear native land in joy he hailed it as a proof 

 of the fostering care of Providence, even in a sandy and path- 

 less desert. The following are thoughts suggested by the 

 circumstance : 



" Oh ! lovely plant, what care, what power, 



In thy fair structure are displayed, 

 By Him who reared thee to this hour, 

 Within the forest's lonely shade. 



" Thy tender stalks, and fibres fine, 



Here find a shelter from the storm. 

 Perhaps no human eyes but mine, 

 E'er gazed upon thy lovely form. 



" He that formed thee, little plant 



And bade thee flourish in this place. 

 Who sees and feels my every want, 

 Can still support me with His grace." 



LIVERWORTS. HEP A TICM* 



2 1 3 



1. Plant of Jungermannia trichomanes. 2. Sheath and capsule magnh 

 fied. 3. The same in a more advanced stage of growth, and scattering 

 the seed. 



These are very curious in structure. The most common is 

 Marchantia polymorpha, and this grows equally on the ground, 

 on banks, on rocks, and on walls. First there appears a green 

 patch like a small fleshy leaf laid on the ground, this has 

 little cups upon it full of grains like seed then after a time' 



