AND MOSSES. . li 
The Squirrel-tailed Feather-moss (//. sciuroidcs) thus 
named from its numeious upright branches, simple and 
divided, and curving gracefully toward the points like that 
of the common squirrel, affords an interesting instance of 
restricted location. It is often found adhering to old trees ; 
and though frequent in this country, is rare in Scotland, 
Intermoriston being its most northern habitation. 
Years have passed away since I gathered from rock or 
stream side from off the village common or old trees 
specimens which have been treasured carefully, and still 
look beautiful. I recently opened them, and vividly did 
they bring before my mental view long -remembered scenes 
when life was new, and the future seemed as an unli- 
mited horizon. I thought while looking at them of the 
pleasure which they had given me in their collection, and I 
could not help wishing that those whose attention during 
their summer and autumn rambles has been directed to 
sea-weeds and flowers, may go forth into the woods and 
lanes in this dull month, and derive from mosses equal 
instruction and delight. 
FEBRUARY. 
" MOSSES are Nature's children, no one carelh 
To make green merchandize of them ; and yet 
Nor sea-weeds, nor loved ferns, that quivering cast 
Their shadows, or on rock, by rippling stream, 
Or 'mid the wide heath, may compete with some 
That I have gather'd." 
MOSSES are of considerable consequence in the vegetable 
world. The mould which they deposit rarely exceeds an 
inch in depth, and yet that small deposit is frequently all- 
. important ; their roots also, closely matted, and occasionally 
