Varieties of the pasture mushroom are few and can readily be learned. The mushroom is composed of stem and cap; the stem is finger-shaped, with the roundish end in the earth. About half way up is usually a ring of the covering skin, where, in the button shape, the veil of the mushroom was attached. This veil extends over the cap and is left at the edge of a little frill; it can be easily stripped off. Under the veil the flesh is ivory-white, and is smooth and firm. The under side of the cap is laid in plaits, called gills, from their resemblance to fish gills. They never grow fast to, or down upon, the stem, usually stopping short off, about one-tenth of an inch from its juncture with the cap. Mushrooms are cultivated in gardens or cellars. They grow from spores or little finger-like lengths, called spawn, which are produced by the spores. Mushrooms turn black or purplish after the first twenty hours of growth. When the gills have taken this dark hue, the mushroom is unfit to eat. Some fungi grow in very wet places; the woods are likely to be full of them after a few rainy days. They are all short-lived. INDEPENDENCE Although not new to some of our readers, we think the following anecdote, illustrating one phase of Benjamin Franklin’s character, will bear repeating: Not long after he began editing his newspaper, Franklin’s free manner of criticism called forth the disapprobation of many of his patrons. One of them in particular felt so greatly moved as to make it his duty to tell him so. “The doctor listened with patience to the reproof, and begged the favor of his friend’s company at supper on an evening which he named; at the same time requesting that the other gentlemen who were dissatisfied with him should attend. “When the guests arrived, the doctor received them cordially, and his opinions were thoroughly criticised and much advice given. Supper was at last announced and the guests invited into an adjoining room. The doctor begged the party to be seated, and urged them to help themselves: but the table was only supplied with two puddings and a stone pitcher of water. Each guest had a plate, a spoon, and a bowl. They were all helped, but none of them could eat. The doctor took freely of the pudding, and urged the others to do the same; but it was out of the question. They tasted and tried in vain. Upon inquiry, they learned that the pudding was made of sawdust. “When the facetious host had made sure that they could not eat, he rose and addressed them thus: ‘My friends, anyone who can subsist upon sawdust pudding, as I can, needs no man’s patronage.’” The doctor’s life has proved his statement. The person who can adapt himself to all circumstances and deny himself when necessary can attain true independence. WHIP-POOR-WILL