Ss 
Apple Dlossom, 
Purus malus. Narurat Orpver: Rosacee—Rose Family. 
Sc ITH lavish hand have the fruits been bestowed upon southern 
\" and tropical climates, both in regard to variety and abund- 
keyeeeance; but the apple, which is superior to them all, on 
fy. account of the various ways it may be used, the length 
of time which it will keep in perfection, and the frequency 
with which it may be eaten without satiating the appetite, 
is a particular boon to the dwellers of cold climates, for there it obtains 
its greatest size and most perfect flavor. The blossom is sweet-scented, 
and has a delicate pink flush. An orchard in bloom is a charming sight. 
way Preferencg. 
© MIND the apple blossoms, how thick they were that spring! 
Yes, and I’m likely to mind them as long as any thing. 
Some of the boughs, I remember, were just a sight to see; 
The buds were as red as roses, all over the top of the tree. 
I held a branch while she stripped it, till, shaken out of place, 
A bee from one of the broken flowers came flying into her face. 
She screamed, and I—I kissed her, just for a cure, you know, 
And she blushed till her cheeks were pinker than the pinkest apple blow. 
—Kate Putnam Osgood. 
C let us plant the apple tree: 
Cleave the tough greensward with the spade; 
Wide let its hollow bed be made; 
There gently lay the roots, and there 
Sift the dark mold with kindly care, 
And press it o’er them tenderly, 
As round the sleeping infant’s feet 
We softly fold the cradle sheet; 
So plant we the apple tree. 
F others be as fair, 
What are their charms to me, 
I neither know nor care, 
For thou art all to me. 
21 
What plant we in this apple tree? 
Buds, which the breath of summer days 
Shall lengthen into leafy sprays; 
Boughs where the thrush, with crimson breast, 
Shall haunt, and sing, and hide her nest; 
We plant, upon the sunny lea, 
A shadow for the noontide hour, 
A shelter from the summer shower, 
When we plant the apple tree. —Bryant. 
—Mrs. Seba Smith. 
