166 
THE MORAL OF FLOWERS. 
such, that this important office may be performed at a 
depth in the earth out of the usual effects of frost. But 
then a new difficulty presents itself. Seeds, though 
perfected, are known not to vegetate at this depth in 
the earth. Our seeds, therefore, though so safely 
lodged, would, after all, be lost to the purpose for 
which all seeds are intended. Lest this should be the 
case, a second admirable provision is made to raise 
them above the surface when they are perfected, and to 
sow them at a proper distance: viz. the germs grow up 
in the spring upon a fruit stalk, accompanied with 
leaves. The seeds now, in common with those of other 
plants, have the benefit of the summer, and are sown 
upon the surface. The order of vegetation externally 
is this: the plant produces its flowers in September; 
its leaves and fruit in the spring following.” 
The obvious inference, that every “ seeming evil ” 
has some counterbalancing good, and every season of 
life its peculiar advantages and pleasures, gave rise to 
the following lines, which were presented to a young 
friend who was regretting each passing birthday. 
