Perhaps the greatest charm in climates similar to ours is the gentle, gradual, and almost imperceptible change from season to season. Our surroundings are continually changing, and thus they reveal to us fresh charms in Nature. Is there anything more delightful than when the scene changes from howling winds and barrenness to pleasant and peaceful verdure?
Rejuvenating Spring is dear to us all; so dear indeed, that surly Winter is more cheerfully endured because of the thought of its refreshing successor Spring.
In rural haunts a series of inspiriting signs foretells the approach of Spring. One of the earliest of these signs is the snowdrop. Scarcely has the snow disappeared when this precocious flower nods in borders and in woods. But these blossoms die, and it seems as if Spring is no nearer. However, the shivering almond blossom soon peeps out into the chilly air, as the softer gales succeed the sterner storms. Meanwhile the daffodil in the shady nooks of the wood puts forth its pointed leaves, and early in March the yellow crowns "that come before the swallow dares," nod lightly with the wind.
Still Winter seems loth to leave, and only after a lengthy battle does he yield, On an April morning we awake as "the curtains of God's tabernacle are gently lowered," to find that joyous Spring is triumphant and all Nature jubilant.
All through April a steady growth is noticed, as the woodland tints assume a richer colour. The hedges, bare and severe, now display their wealth of white blossoms. Thus Nature proceeds until the coming of May, when the swallow skims gracefully over rivulet and plain.
But perhaps the most pleasing thought in this season of regeneration is that, no matter how dreary and long winter may be, Spring will return to banish it again.
H.E.A. (Up.Vb).