394 



THE UNIVERSE. 



In the lily, which Ave have chosen as an instance, the 

 pistil is represented by a little column situated in the 

 centre of the flower. We find in it three parts: the 

 ovary, which forms the swollen base and which is only 

 the fruit in miniature; the stjde, which surmounts it; and 



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•-4 



219. Spatlie of a Palm-tree serving as a Bath for a Child. 



lastly the stigma, which expands into a trilobed swelling 

 at its extremity. 



Such are the elements of the flower, and these Ijy their 

 close union or their monstrous anomalies produce the 

 infinite variety of fVn'ms which we admire throiighout 

 the vegetable kingdom. 



A ceaseless source of fecundity, this flower, the pro- 

 ductions of which are destined to cover all the gloljc with 

 verdure, is the object of the most delicate protecting care. 



When yet scarcely outlined, downy scales lend warmth 

 to it, and form a soft pillow for its first lineaments, and 



