It seems from “the Gossips,” a poem by Shipman, in 1666, that the usage of giving apostle-spoons at christenings, was at that time on the decline: “Formerly, when they us’d to troul, Gilt bowls of sack, they gave the bowl; Two _spoons_ at least; an _use ill kept_; ’Tis well if now our own be left.” An anecdote is related of Shakspeare and Ben Jonson, which bears upon the usage: Shakspeare was godfather to one of Jonson’s children, and, after the christening, being in deep study, Jonson cheeringly asked him, why he was so melancholy? “Ben,” said he, “I have been considering a great while what should be the fittest gift for me to bestow upon my godchild, and I have resolved it at last.” “I prithee, what?” said Ben, “I’ faith, Ben,” answered Shakspeare, “I’ll give him a dozen good _latten spoons_, and thou shalt translate them.” The word _latten_, intended as a play upon _latin_, is the name for thin iron tinned, of which spoons, and similar small articles of household use, are sometimes made. Without being aware of the origin, it is still a custom with many persons, to present spoons at christenings, or on visiting the “lady in the straw;” though they are not now adorned with imagery. * * * * * FLORAL DIRECTORY. Winter hellebore. _Helleborus hyemalis._ ~January 26.~ _St. Polycarp._ _St. Paula._ _St. Conan._ THE SEASON. On winter comes--the cruel north Pours his furious whirlwind forth Before him--and we breathe the breath Of famish’d bears, that howl to death: Onward he comes from rocks that blanch O’er solid streams that never flow, His tears all ice, his locks all snow, Just crept from some huge avalanche. _Incog._ BEARS AND BEES.