26 THE VEGETABLE KINGDOM. 



over again until perfectly clean and clear, which is only 

 ascertained by examination under the microscope, then 

 mount them in fluid or balsam. If in balsam, dry them 

 well first. 



POLLEN. 

 POLLEN OF MALLOW. 



A beautiful object viewed as an opaque more lovely far 

 when taken fresn from the flower, and looked at upon one 

 of its own crimson leaves, or the petal of a Geranium. It 

 cannot be worthily described : rest not until you have seen 

 it ; and also the 



POLLEN OF HOLLYHOCK, 



which is like it, only the golden grains are larger, and per- 

 haps more easily preserved. I usually take a portion of the 

 stamen, studded with the spiked globular grains, and dry 

 them on a scarlet petal of the flower ; but they are well seen 

 on a black ground, simply mounted, when dry, between two 

 pieces of glass. 



POLLEN OF PASSION-FLOWER. 



These are not spiked, but have three plain valves and a 

 reticulated cuticle. 



POLLEN OF CENOTHERA 



is curiously triangular, with pores at each corner, from one 

 or more of which the pollen tubes spring forth. 



Pollen is always better observed fresh from the plant. 

 The variety in shape and structure is very great; the 

 interest will be unfailing in the examination of it, the 

 deeper we go into the mysteries of plant-life. 



This golden dust, which, to the unassisted eye, is all 

 alike in every flower, is fashioned with the most elaborate 

 care for its great purpose, and sculptured with that exqui- 

 site, finish which all creation bears as the signature of the 

 gracious God who made all things well. 



