80 
DISDAIN. 
tides to zephyr alone the invisible germs of its 
young family. The Creator of all things se¬ 
lects the cradle for her children : and it pleases 
him sometimes to form a sombre veil with 
their waving tresses, which ever conceals from 
vulgar gaze the cave where the solitary naiad 
sleeps, and where she has slept from the be¬ 
ginning of ages ; at other times they are borne 
on the wings of the wind to the summits of 
lofty towers, or the tottering remnant of an 
old chateau, where they shine like verdant 
stars; and sometimes, disposed in light fes¬ 
toons, they adorn the retired and shady spots 
which shepherds love. Thus this wild plant 
is not to be understood by science, but hides 
its secret origin from our curious inquiries. 
It is the prettiest of all ferns; and Pliny 
states, that though you plunge it in water it 
will still remain dry. 
DISDAIN. 
YELLOW CARNATION. 
We hope that disdain is as scarce among 
our countrywomen as the yellow carnation is 
in our native land. As disdainful people 
generally exact homage, and possess little 
amiability ; so with this plant, it is the least 
beautiful and fragrant of its kind, yet requires 
continual care and attention. 
