54 
EDITORIAL OBSERVATIONS. 
bursting buds and opening snowdrop, or, when it is more 
advanced, to gather the primrose and the violet, and inhale 
the perfume of the thorn ? Nature has her harbingers 
of the seasons, each beautiful in its order of time, and con¬ 
ducive to the awakening of thought, not unmixed, it is 
hoped, with a glow of delight and gratitude to the God 
of Nature. Thus, “ the shady vale may be brought to re¬ 
membrance by its retiring gems; the roaring ocean by its 
vegetable organisms; the tranquil pool by its floral mantle ; 
the mountain top, the Indian plain, the polar zones, by their 
characteristic vegetation.” These, perhaps, will be designated 
the mere ornamental parts of the science, while in medicine 
we have to do with the useful ; but the one is often, very 
often, the index to the other, plants being distinguished 
by their flowers, which arrive at perfection at different 
periods of the year, known by changes in these appendages. 
This knowledge has been acquired by a study of botany, 
and is built upon observation. But although much has been 
discovered, there yet remains much to be sought out. All is 
not yet ascertained. Especially is this the case in reference 
to the application of this science to veterinary medicine. 
We too often accept for truth that which is only traditional, 
and after we have investigated the matter we frequently find 
out our error. 
Under all these circumstances, we deem botany to merit 
recognition by us, and more especially by the student. 
Difficulties may, nay will, at the beginning present them¬ 
selves in this as in every other science; but method, zeal, and 
perseverance, will be sure to surmount them all. Many, it is 
true, may find it hard 
<c to climb 
The steep where Fame’s proud temple shines afar;” 
but it should ever be remembered that it is difficulty which 
excites attention and creates interest; that it is labour—real, 
downright labour—which impresses and secures the know¬ 
ledge in the attainment of which it was expended. 
