28 WINTER GREENERIES AT HOME. 



close glass cover for plants, it affords some of the advan- 

 tages of a greenhouse. But " the world was not made in 

 a day," and my bower, like yours, will doubtless improve 

 with time. 



The almost entire absence of bloom arises partly from 

 not having a southern exposure, partly from the use of 

 gas-light at night, even though it is shaded, and partly 

 from the fact that Roses and most winter-flowering plants 

 require rather more attention than I now find it conven- 

 ient to give. Before spring, the deficiency will be sup- 

 plied to some extent by adding a few Hyacinths in pots, 

 and other easy bloomers ; and much more might be done 

 with a little labor and expense. 



But taking the room just as it is, let me assure you that 

 it harbors no manner of discontent. That, you know, 

 would be altogether out of keeping with the place. The 

 foliage itself is so fresh and abundant, and much of it so 

 varied and ornamental in shape and tint, as to be no small 

 compensation for any lack of bloom. With the afternoon 

 sunshine to glorify and fill the place, and with a still 

 brighter sunshine in our hearts, Almina Eve and myself 

 find no difficulty in making our summer last all the year. 

 Both of us most heartily wish you each an equally happy 

 Eden. 



