VEGETABLE PHYSIOLOGY. 195 



descent through the bark, depositing, in its 

 progress, all the nourishing particles it contains, 

 and thereby increasing the tree in size and 

 height. 



The examination of the flower, the different 

 modes in which the fruit is formed, and the pe- 

 culiar secretions of plants, (such as oils,, gums, 

 resin, milk, &c.,) cannot, I think, fail to interest. 



Vegetable physiology is most pleasing, per- 

 haps, to those acquainted in some degree with 

 the physiology of animals; because they are 

 able to compare the organs, growth, &,c., of 

 both animal and vegetable kingdoms. It must 

 be regarded as an important science, if we 

 merely consider the direct benefits we derive 

 from some plants in nourishment for ourselves, 

 and many of the animals necessary to our 

 existence; and relief from sickness, by the 

 medicinal properties of others. 



