19 
Our last collecting in the mountains was done on the 8th of 
August, when the ledges of “Blowing Rock” itself were investi- 
gated. Vegetation here seemed to be very backward. Sedum 
telephioides was hard to find in flower, nearly all of it being still 
in bud, and Paronychia argyrocoma was not much better. The 
plants of Polypodium incanum found were small, but with well 
developed sori. The purple-flowered form of Allium cernuum 
hung its nodding heads over the ledges. This plant has a strange 
look, not only on account of its purple color, but the perianth in 
the living plant is contracted at both top and bottom. 
The chief object, however, was not found. ZLiatris Hellerz, 
collected here on August 18, 1890, was not yet in bloom, but a 
quantity of Z. graminifolia was obtained. The latter plant is 
quite plentiful on the ledges, and presents a beautiful sight when 
in flower. Many of the ledges are only a few inches wide, and 
are not by any means safe places on which to ramble about, as 
the base of the cliffis more than one hundred feet below. One 
of us has cause to remember the place, for on that day 
his earthly career was almost ended. While carefully picking his 
way along one of the narrow ledges, seeking for “© onions,” his 
foot slipped, and over he went, turning somersaults, and desper- 
ately clutching at anything that offered support. А narrow 
shelf and a friendly bush finally stopped his descent, after he had 
fallen about fifteen feet. Two badly damaged fingers and several 
minor bruises were, fortunately, the only results. 
A grand exodus was planned for the 11th. The few previous 
days were devoted to securing lumber, making boxes and pack- 
ing the accumulations of over two months’ labor. Early in the 
morning two baggage wagons were loaded with trunks and 
boxes and started for Lenoir. Later, three large hacks appeared, 
which were to take our party down the mountain. The ride 
proved a delightful one and Lenoir was reached in time to par- 
take of the dinner which had been telegraphed for. Seven o'clock 
saw us in Salisbury. 
The next day we were entertained at the very pleasant home 
of Mr. D. A. Atwell, together with other friends, who had been 
with us in the mountains. Our party now separated, and in the 
evening we were stationed in our new headquarters, the hospita- 
