THE BLOSSOM 145 



separated into five narrow and pointed strips. The 

 corolla we find to be composed of five pieces, five 

 petals distinct from one 

 another. On the contrary, 

 in the blossom of the cam- 

 panula the five petals of 

 the corolla are joined at 

 the edges and form a 

 beautiful blue bell which 

 looks as if made of one 

 piece. The five large 

 teeth that border the open- 

 ing of the bell nevertheless 

 show that the corolla is 

 really composed of five 

 petals, of which these 

 teeth are the termination. 

 "The calyx and the co- 



J Fennel Flower 



rolla are the flower's cloth- 

 ing, a double clothing having both the substantial 

 material that protects from cold and storm, and the 

 fine fabric that charms the eye. The calyx, the outer 

 garment, is of simple form, green in color, and of 

 firm texture suitable for withstanding bad weather. 

 It has to protect the still unopened flower, to shield 

 it from the sun, from cold and wet. Examine a rose- 

 bud and note with what delicate precision the five 

 sepals of the calyx are united so as to cover the rest. 

 Not the slightest drop of water could penetrate the 

 interior, so carefully are their edges joined together. 

 There are flowers that close their calyx every even- 



