There are several sorts of Maidenhair, but the best is that of Canada, which has a pleasant smell joined to its pectoral qualities. The true Maidenhair - Capillus Veneris - is a native of Italy and of the southern parts of France. It has an agreeable but very weak smell. Common or English Maidenhair - Trichomanes - is usually substituted for the true, and occasionally for the Canadian. Its leaves consist of small round divisions, growing as it were in pairs. It grows on rocks, old walls, and shady banks, and should be gathered in September. Black Maidenhair - Adianthum Nigrum. - has smooth and shining loaves, the middle rib being black, and the seeds are all spread on the back of the leaf. It grows on shady banks, and on the roots of trees. White Maidenhair - Wall Rue - Tent Wort - Ruta Murana Salvia Vitae. - Thp leaves of this are shaped something like rue, and covered all over the back with a small seed-like dust. Golden Maidenhair - Muscus Capillaris - grows in moist places, and the pedicle arises from the top of the stalk. I have given these particulars, because I find they are often substituted one for the other by persons who are hot aware that there is any difference. Although all of them have nearly the same qualities, only two have a volatile oil, but they are all mucilaginous.

Canada capillaire two ounces, sugar two pounds. Chop the capillaire into small bits, and make as orange-flower syrup. By this method the oil is not allowed to escape, which being exceedingly odoriferous and volatile, is soon dissipated if boiled; or make a cold infusion (See Infusions) of the plant by putting one quart of water to lour ounces of capillaire, add four pounds of sugar, and finish in the bain-marie, adding one ounce of orange-flower water.* [This is a fashionable' and delicate syrup, but is rarely obtained genuine.]

Simplf syrup, flavoured with orange-flower water, is usually substituted for it.