almond-tree. 
41 
ALMOND-TREE. 
INDISCRETION. 
The Almond-tree is the first of the trees to 
obey the call of early spring. Nothing can be 
more graceful than this beautiful tree when it 
appears covered with blossoms, while the sur¬ 
rounding trees are still quite naked. It has 
been made the emblem of indiscretion, from 
flowering so early that frosts too often destroy 
the precious germs of its fruit, though, instead 
of injuring its flowers, they seem to confer on 
the latter additional beauty. 
According to Moore, the Almond blossom is 
the emblem of hope— 
The hope, in dreams of a happier hour, 
That alights on Misery’s brow, 
Springs out of the silvery almond-flower, 
That blooms on a leafless bough. 
In ancient times, the abundance of blossom 
on this tree was considered as the promise of a 
fruitful season. 
