45 
The Fernery at the Fireside . 
the story; but Sine qua Non is the master of them here; 
and they comprise cases of several kinds, some rather 
gigantic in dimensions, besides vases fitted with lanterns 
of plate glass, in which not only climbing ferns and ferns 
of many other kinds, but climbing ivies, lycopodiums, 
and such odd things as the artillery plant are grown. 
I have had to make as well as furnish plant cases. 
We have between us managed to exhibit a considerable 
number, and step by step we have acquired some very 
definite ideas about them, which I shall endeavour to 
set forth categorically. 
In the case of fern shades which fit into glass dishes, 
and which, as long as there is water lodged in the rim 
into which the lower edge of the shade rests, are air- 
tight, air must be given three times a week by removing 
the shade altogether for an hour or so. This allows 
the excess of moisture to dry off the foliage, and prevents 
mould ; and the glass getting dry in the meanwhile, it 
is prepared to take up a fresh supply of moisture from 
the soil when replaced, which is equivalent to a circula- 
tion of water as well as a change of air. This air- 
giving, however, must be regulated by discretion, for if 
the air of the room is hot and dry sudden exposure of 
the plants to it may do them harm. Moreover, it is a 
very easy matter to remove the glass and forget it, the 
result being, perhaps, complete destruction of all the 
more tender fronds, and the disfigurement of the affair 
for a fortnight. Now, a very simple and expeditious 
and effectual mode of ventilating consists in taking off 
the glass, wiping it dry and bright, and replacing it at 
once. There is then no fear of forgetting it. 
