X 
propensity to cherish and to love, so instinctively excited in 
her bosom by the weak or suffering. I learn, thence, how 
natural it becomes for such a being to soothe the careworn, 
and console the disappointed man ; and I see how truly she 
may become a helpmate in his hour of trial; and I know 
that his kindness and his love should reward her efforts, even 
as the Winter flowers bloom in grateful homage to her care. 
Our fair countrywomen would do well to cultivate more 
generally these mute companions in their social sitting-rooms. 
They lend a charm to the dreary Winter hours, by calling up 
pleasant fancies of spring-time and promise ; they bring sweet 
associations to the memory, and touch the softest notes that 
vibrate in the heart, creating sentiments of hope, and love, 
and gratitude. 
I have woven a hundred poems into this little design, em¬ 
bracing, of course, but few of the children of Flora, still 
there are enough to form a Bouquet for each month, which 
may be obtained at a moment’s notice in almost any part of 
our country. 
The occupation has been to me one of much interest, and 
although 
I seldom care if strangers praise 
My lute’s unbidden song, 
Its simplest and its proudest lays 
To those I love belong. 
