D. Smith, Newburgh, N. Y., writes: "By post I this day send you a few flowers of my seedling Clematis, Mary, which I raised three years ago, and which I consider a decided acquisition. Plant, perfectly hardy - none of the Clematis family more so - an excellent bloomer. The flowers, it is believed, equal in beauty, size, etc,, either of the early blooming varieties, standing well the rays of the sun, etc. Supposed to be a seedling from the Sophia, but of a darker color and firmer texture; perhaps accidentally crossed by some other variety. If the flowers are received in good condition, would like your opinion of it. I have no plants for sale."

[The flowers came in good condition. We would call the seedling a rich violet color, and it is certainly a desirable sort. There are, however, such a variety of Clematises nowadays that it is impossible to say whether or not this one differs from any now known. The well-known sort, azurea grandiflora, approaches it in color, but is lighter, and has narrower petals. - Ed. G. M.]