The sweet-scented violet of Europe, Viola odorata, is far superior to any we have, in fragrance. Indeed, the few species like V. blanda, which have some fragrance, are not at all showy. In size and color our Viola cucullata, V. pedata, and others, are far superior to the European scented ones. Our large Early Blue violet (V. cucullata) would be superior to any of the European race, if only fragrance could be given to it, and as it often has a little, the quality could no doubt be developed by careful selection.

We make these reflections through reading the following, in the Garden: "Mr. Lee, of Clive-don, sends us flowers of a seedling violet, somewhat similar in appearance to V. canina, but richer in color and deliciously fragrant, the individual blossoms being as large as those of Victoria Re-gina, and of good substance. Apart from its beauty and novelty as regards color, this variety is interesting as being a step nearer the acquisition of a really blue violet than any we have yet had, and which would in many respects be an acquisition."

This Viola canina is the English Dog Violet, and nearly the same as our native Viola Muhlenbergii, which is found here in shady woods. It has no more odor, naturally, than our Early Blue, but if it can be developed to a sweet-scented kind, why not our Early Blue?