Valerian, 
Daleriana sylvatica. NaturavL Orpver: Valerianacee — Valerian Family. 
UST why this plant has been called Valerian—whether in honor 
ze. of the Roman emperor of that name, or of some unknown 
i Valerius, or (which is perhaps the most probable view) from the 
m,, Latin valere, to be well,—seems to be uncertain. It is to be 
found in nearly all temperate climates. In the United States 
there are several indigenous varieties, found mostly in lowlands 
near wooded districts, or in swamps. The leaves of some are 
composed of several small leaflets arranged opposite each other 
along a central stem which is terminated by one a little superior 
in size, in others the foliage is entire. The flowers of the wild 
species are mostly purple, white or rose. The root of the Vale- 
riana edulis is said to be cooked and eaten by the Indians. It is 
from the Valeriana officinalis that the extract used in medicine is 
obtained. It is useful chiefly in nervous affections, though possessing tonic, febri- 
fugal and anti-spasmodic properties. 
Obliging Disposition. 
EVOTED, anxious, generous, void of guile, 
And with her whole heart’s welcome in her smile. 
—Mrs. Norton. 
HERE are some hearts like wells, green-mossed And there are some like springs, that bubbling 
As ever summer saw; {and deep To follow dusty ways, [burst ° 
And cool their water is— yea, cool and sweet; And run with offered cup to quench his thirst 
But you must come to draw. Where the tired traveler strays; 
They hoard not, yet they rest in calm content, That never ask the meadows if they want 
And not unsought will give; What is their joy to give; 
They can be quiet with their wealth unspent, Unasked, their lives to other life they grant, 
So self-contained they live. So self-bestowed they live. 
--Caroline Spencer. 
AN I yield you blessings? says the friendly heart; 
Fear not I am poorer, though I much impart. 
Wherefore should you thank me? giving is my need; 
Love that wrought none comfort, sorrow were indeed. 
—Lucy Larcom, ’ 
AIA 
4p) 308 
azoces : eit 
