THE HAZEL. 



133 



in almost every part of this island^ in most of 

 our hedge-rows^ and constitutes the great mass 

 of underwood in our forests and groves. They 

 will^ if let alone, shoot into poles twenty feet 

 in length ; but they are generally cut down 

 sooner, to form walking-sticks, fishing-rods, 

 stakes, hurdles, and such things ; and also for 

 burning into charcoal. Engravers and other 

 artists, I believe, prefer this charcoal to any 

 other. The nuts of the hazel are much sought 

 for, by a diminutive set of people called — " 

 Boys and girls, I suppose," said Frederick. 

 — Who prefer this employment," I added, 

 to any other, which their governors can 

 appoint ; although they are well supplied with 

 food by them, at stated times, and at great 

 cost." 



Our young friends smiled at the insinuation, 

 but said nothing. 



