S3 
where observable in her productions, may it be said that 
nature abhors sameness. Take the vegetable world for 
instance: what diversity of form, colour, and fragrance, 
what different means are used for accomplishing similar 
ends. In one and the same coppice how various in 
outline and in tint are the trees which compose it! — 
u No tree in all the grove but has its charms, 
Though each its hue peculiar.” 
We have just been considering two of the pine genus— 
evergreens, of course: the holly, too, is an evergreen; but 
how different in every respect, save that from which both 
derive their general title ! Compare the thready, bluish- 
green leaves of the one, with those of the other,—so 
“ bright with nature’s varnish,” broad, spinous, and of a 
warm hue,—and the result will be an acquiescence in the 
assertion, “ nature abhors sameness.” 
The holly is one of the most esteemed of our native 
evergreens. Its value is felt in sylvan scenery, even in 
spring and summer, when the woods and thickets are 
arrayed in the full flush of “ leafy luxurybut it is in 
connection with the wintry landscape, that it may most 
confidently challenge our admiration. When all the 
deciduous trees have “ put their graceful foliage off,” 
and “ stand barren as lances,” the holly cheers us with 
