WHAT IS A FERN ? 
243 
from the base outwards to the extreme uppermost 
point of the frond. In the compound species of 
the plant there is first of all the primary unroll¬ 
ing ; and that is followed, when completed, by the 
lateral unrolling of the leaves on the rachis, which 
lateral unrolling is followed by perpendicular and 
lateral unrolling in alternation. 
We have offered the preceding very simple 
definitions of the distinctive characteristics of 
Ferns, merely as some kind of guide to those who 
are totally unable to distinguish a Fern from 
another plant. But if, at first, there be any diffi¬ 
culty in making this distinction, it will be short¬ 
lived. About Ferns, whether small or large, 
whether just starting into life or developed into 
their finest proportions, there is an almost inde¬ 
scribable aspect of grace. We have often wan¬ 
dered for miles through ferny lanes, with no eye 
for any plants but Ferns. They have seemed to 
speak to us, and they have invited and engrossed 
our attention, as they will invite and engross the 
attention of all who lovingly and admiringly seek 
these children of the woods and lanes in their 
wild habitats. 
