FRUIT AND LEAF BUDS 29 



them is a most delightful pastime. Such un- 

 dreamed of possibilities in wrapping, packing, 

 and varnishing ! Such unsuspected beauties of 

 form and color ! They call to us from all sides 

 when once our eyes are opened, and we wonder 

 how we could ever have passed them by unheed- 

 ing. 



All the tree's hopes for the future lie in her 

 winter buds, and she guards them most care- 

 fully. Each little package is wrapped in layers 

 of scales, securely gummed together, and the 

 whole given a coat of varnish, that it may be 

 safe from the elements. As a further precau- 

 tion some buds are carefully lined with fur, 

 others with cotton, or with tiny plant hairs. 

 All are very snug and warm in their ingenious 

 cradles. 



Sometimes in place of scales there is a nice 

 little brown cap tightly fitted over the bud. 

 Sycamore buds have such caps, neatly covered 

 on the outside with fine hairs. Some of the lit- 

 tle caps are quite pointed. They contain leaf 

 buds. The others have both leaves and flowers, 

 and are plump and rounded. The willows, too, 

 wear caps, or leathery hoods, all made in one 

 piece and lined with a silvery fur. The buds 

 of the wild cherry are slender and pointed, and 

 each sits upon a little shelf. Butternut buds 



