26 THE JOY OF GARDENS 



by every influence, gnarled and knotted and picturesque 

 when leafless or in fine fettle, and, though not claiming 

 honors of grace, an interesting friend. 



This is digressing from our original flower hunt in the 

 tree tops. The true lover of trees peers about for them 

 whenever he takes his walks abroad, knowing that their 

 time is short. Of course the short-sighted must take a 

 field glass, but bird hunting or flower hunting under these 

 conditions does not bring the happy intimacy that comes 

 from bird society on your own lawn, or studying tree 

 flowers overhanging the porch. 



Trees play a part in the joy of gardens; and, were 

 mine the privilege to plant this spring, I should choose for 

 flowers, as well as for shade, a Judas tree, a locust, a 

 flowering crab, catalpas, and lindens if I had space for 

 all. The birds should have their share of fragrant bou- 

 quets from budding time until June slips into summer, 

 when the air hums with bees. Nor should a March pass 

 forgetting the blossoming elms, maples, willows, and 

 their companions. 



Gather a bunch of tree twigs anywhere, and wait for 

 surprises in the vase of water in the sunny window where 

 you have set them. 



It is true it is a crime to injure a tree, but in this single 

 instance the lesson is worth the sacrifice, and all will be 

 forgiven if you have learned to know the powdered gold 

 that is shed from the ash, the tassels of the willow, the 



