By the end of February many signs of Spring have already appeared and, as the dis grow longer, the hearts of country dwellers are stirred to renewed wonder at the swelling of buds and the sight of the early blossoms of hazel, willow, alder and poplar.

In March come the violets and celandines, and although the easterly winds often blow strong and cold, we know that March will soon be followed by April—when windows can be opened again, and hedgehogs and dormice can end their hibernation and enjoy the sunshine. With Spring comes the greatest wonder of the year possibly even more beautiful than Summer.

From inside the book