THE LARKSPUR. 



bare rocks of our hill-sides in a few years. It is an in- 

 valuable; tree and as we have passed over different barren 

 and bleak wastes of England, we have oft been surprised 

 that the owners have not made use of this tree, both to 

 ameliorate the climate, and clothe the surface with an 

 artificial covering of earth. 



THE LARKSPUR {Delphinium consolidd). — Swiftness. 



The calyx in this pretty field flower is divided into five 

 oblong segments, with a long spur at the base, either 

 straight or curved, whence its nanje. This species is called 

 Pied-d' Alouette by the French. The whole genus are popular 

 border flowers, perennial, and needing little or no care in 

 cultivation. 



THE LAUREL {Laurus nobilis). — Glory. 



" Glory claims the Bay," as its emblem, says Miss 

 Twamley, and of its leaves has the wreath of victory, both 

 in games and war, been formed. The warrior, — 



" his crown of laurel-leaves 

 With bloody hand when victor weaves." — ScOTT. 



and Percival tells us that 



" Fame's bright star and glory's swell 



By the glossy leaf of the Bay are given ;" 

 123 



