stand as the ornaments of our country, and the evi- 
dence of an increased and increasing thirst after that 
knowledge which exists, unmixed with the baser 
passions of human nature. To live in the present 
day, unconscious of the effects of divine wisdom, 
so palpably displayed in every object that is pre- 
sented to man’s senses, betrays little less than an in- 
excusable, self-satisfied, ignorance. The rising in- 
stibitions, both charitable and scientific, established 
in Birmingham, show that its inhabitants recognise 
such sentiment, and are active in its diffusion. 
On reference to Mr. Loudon’s great depositary of 
knowledge, his Encyclopaedia of Gardening, we find 
that the dimensions of the principal botanic gardens 
of Great Britain, are as follow : London thirty-three 
acres; Dublin thirty; Edinburgh and Manchester 
sixteen each; Glasgow eight; Cork six ; Liverpool, 
Hull, Oxford, and Cambridge, five acres each ; 
Chelsea, and Bury St. Edmunds, three each. The 
garden t)f the Birmingham society occupies sixteen 
acres. Thus its relative importance, as regards di- 
mensions, is at once seen. For the variety and the 
fitness of its surface, aspect, and soil; its supply of 
water ; and position, as part of a richly varied land- 
scape, we believe it inferior to none. Its progress, 
under the management of an active committee, and 
a most skilful curator, Mr. D. Cameron, on plans of 
Mr. Loudon, is indeed, most auspicious. 
The jEthionema membranaceum has proved quite 
hardy, and is suitable to the front of the parterre ; or, 
from its procumbent habit, to adorn artificial rock- 
work. It may be propagated from seeds or cuttings, 
and should have a warm and rather dry situation. 
Sweet’s FI. Card. s. 2, 69. 
