So prominent is the evidence in this plant, of 
design for the proper protection and ripening of its 
seeds, that the most careless observer cannot but 
recognise the hand of a superintending Providence 
over these the minor works of creation, if such they 
may be called. The apathy with which the mass of 
mankind pass amongst all the provisions which are 
wisely made for the protection and continuation of 
the innumerable species of plants, is very unlikely 
to permit him to see or examine into their habits, 
or the inscrutable arrangements, — we may say the 
actions of which they are capable, for their perfect 
preservation. Who amongst us, even if he be fur- 
nished with the most acute philosophy of the schools, 
—that his physiology penetrate every vessel and cell 
of the vegetable body, can unfold to us the natural 
operations of matter, which induce these changes of 
position, so nicely adapted to the requirements ot 
the plant ! Here we see the stem rising up, and 
carrying with it the flower in its incipient state, 
tiled over with the calyx to protect it in its drooping 
position. The flower advanced to perfection, erects 
itself, and opens its beauties to the sun, whereby the 
organs of fructification receive its vivifying powers, 
and the spirit of life is given to the infant seed. 
This completed, protection to' the tender embryo is 
given by the head again turning downwards, to ren- 
der the imbricated calyx a defence against rains. The 
seed being perfected, may thus have been dropt to 
the earth ; it has, however, beauty in its seed wings, 
and again the head rises, not alone for display, but 
that the seeds may the better take flight with the 
wind, aud be carried the farther away. 
