Valerian Family. 
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IVulcvvan 
Dalertctna snbatica. Natural Order: Valerianaccce- 
MUST why this plant has been called Valerian — whether in honor 
1 L of the Roman emperor of that name, or ot some unknown 
Valerius, or (which is perhaps the most probable view) from the 
Latin valeve , to be well, — seems to be uncertain. It is to be 
$ found in nearly all temperate climates. In the United States 
there are several indigenous varieties, found mostly in lowlands 
near wooded districts, or in swamps. The leaves ot some aie 
composed of several small leaflets arranged opposite each othei 
along a central stem which is terminated by one a little superioi 
in size, in others the foliage is entire. The flowers ot the wild 
species are mostly purple, white or rose. T he root ot the Vale¬ 
riana edulis is said to be cooked and eaten by the Indians. It is 
from the Valeriana officinalis that the extract used in medicine is 
obtained. It is useful chiefly in nervous affections, though possessing tonic, tebii- 
fugal and anti-spasmodic properties. 
ittliging 
D EVOTED, anxious, generous, void of guile, 
And with her whole heart’s welcome in her smile. 
T HERE are some hearts like wells, green-mossed 
As ever summer saw; [and deep 
And cool their water is — yea, cool and sweet; 
But you must come to draw. 
They hoard not, yet they rest in calm content, 
And not unsought will give; 
They can be quiet with their wealth unspent, 
So self-contained they live. 
— Mrs. Norton. 
And there are some like springs, that bubbling 
To follow dusty ways, [burst 
And run with offered cup to quench his thirst 
Where the tired traveler strays; 
That never ask the meadows if they want 
What is their joy to give; 
Unasked, their lives to other life they grant, 
So self-bestowed they live. 
—Caroline Spencer. 
C A AN 1 yield you blessings? says the friendly heart; 
y Fear not I am poorer, though T much impart. 
Wherefore should you thank me? giving is my need; 
Love that wrought none comfort, sorrow were indeed. 
— Lucy Larconi. 
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