flowery spoils. In the afternoon, a May pole is erected in the centre
of the village. The pole is consecrated to the goddess of flowers, and
is profusely adorned with them. It remains standing all the year.

The young girls then select by lot, one of their number to be crowned
as May Queen. She is crowned with a beautiful wreath of flowers and
presides for the rest of the day over the amusements of her subjects.
In the picture you see the May pole--the Queen, the crowner, and her
two maids of honor.




[Illustration: Strawberries.]

STRAWBERRIES.


Who does not like Strawberries? They are the most delicious of all
berries. They are to be found growing in a wild state in almost all
temperate climates. During the past few years, the consumption of the
strawberry has become so enormous, as to make it a profitable berry to
cultivate. Jane Smith has been cultivating some berries, not for the
market, but for her own use. She has her two sisters in the garden, and
is showing them her nice beds. You see the kind of place she has chosen
for her beds. Shaded and dark situations under the drip of trees, are
unfavorable for the fruit. You should always choose an open, airy and
warm exposure. The seeds should be sown in the spring, in a bed of light
rich mould. You must be careful and not allow the weeds to grow up with
your plants, as they will be sure to kill them. The plants do not bear