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England. We usually see them, at tlieir largest, two or 
three feet high, when in flower in the hay-fields. But in 
equinoctial régions, where the air is damper and the sun 
far more powerful and brilliant than with us, Grasses 
acquire surprising dimensions. In Brazil we are told 
that the hay will grow seven or eight feet high. 
It is somewhat remarkable that the growth of Grass 
should mark the cultivation of a country, and be also a 
token of désolation. But so it is ; for what can be a 
greater sign of prosperity and abundance than the well- 
inclosed meadows of our own land arrayed in “ nature’s 
robe of vernal green?” Yet if we hear of a ruinous 
and uninhabited spot we immediately fancy it over-run 
with tliick and rank Grass. 
“ Désolation o’er the grass-grown Street 
Expands his raven wings.” 
How fragile are the pretty blossoms of the Grass ! so 
fragile indeed that they are deemed in the volume of 
inspiration no unmeet emblems of the uncertain dura¬ 
tion of man’s existence. “ Ail flesli is as grass, and 
ail the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass 
withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away : but the 
word of the Lord endureth for ever !” Beautiful, beau- 
