AND FLOWERS OF POETRY. 185 
PRUDENCE. 
SERVICE-TREE. 
October is drawn in a garment of yellow and carnation; in his left 
hand a basket of services, medlars, and other fruits that ripen late. 
Peacham. 
Evert tree and every plant has a physiognomy which is 
proper to itself, and which seem to give it a character. The 
giddy almond-tree profusely puts forth its flowers in spring, at 
the risk of having no fruit for the autumn, while the service- 
tree never bears fruit until it has acquired full strength, and 
then its harvest is certain. For this reason it is made the em¬ 
blem of prudence. This beautiful tree retains is dazzling scar¬ 
let fruit throughout the winter; when we see it shining a bril¬ 
liant contrast to the white mantle of snow which covers the 
earth. Its harvest can only be gathered in winter, and for that 
season Providence has reserved it for the use of the smaller 
birds. 
Beware of desperate steps! — the darkest day, 
Live till to-morrow, will have passed away. 
Cowper. 
PEERLESS AND PROUD. 
MAGNOLIA. 
“ Of this splendid family of trees the American continent has 
many species. They are distinguished by their rich, smooth fo¬ 
liage, large, fragrant flowers, and aromatic bark. Some of 
