88 THE BEAUTIES OF APRIL AND MAY. 



in this case, indulgence is incapable of excess. This 

 balmy entertainment not only regales the sense, but 

 cheers the very soul ; and, instead of clogging, elates 

 its powers." 



Our subject is so enchanting, that we had inadver- 

 tently wandered from the path we first entered. We 

 now retrace our steps, and take a glance at surrounding 

 objects* The fields look green with the springing 

 grass. See the daffodil how it spreads itself to the 

 wind ! The leaves of honey-suckles begin to expand, 

 and lilacs, or syringas, of various hues, unfold their 

 buds. The almond exhibits its rosy clusters, and the 

 corchorus its golden balls. Many of the lowlier plants 

 exhibit their yellow and purple colours, and the buds 

 of lilies, and other perennial plants, prepare to show 

 themselves. If we turn our attention to the orchard, 

 we behold the apricots, nectarines, and peaches, lead 

 the way in blossoming, which are followed by the 

 cherry and the plum. These form a most agreeable 

 spectacle, as well on account of their beauty as of the 

 promise they give of future benefits. It is, however, an 

 anxious time for the possessor, as the fairest prospect 

 of a plentiful increase is often blighted. Shakspeare 

 draws a pathetic comparison from this circumstance* 

 to paint the delusive nature of human expectation : 



11 This is the state of man ; to-day he puts forth 

 The tender leaves of hope ; to-morrow blossoms, 

 And bears his blushing honours thick upon him ; 

 The third day comes a frost, a killing frost, 

 And nips his root." 



