by which the order is distinguished above all its fellows, can any plead that this result is due to its 
ancient lineage, nor yet to the vast periods through which endless transformations are assumed 
to have been continually taking place, because Orchids—according to geologic reckoning— 
are but a thing of yesterday, and have never been found in a fossil state. Yet their constant 
companions the Ferns, trace back their pedigree to the earliest vegetation of the primeval 
world! To the believer, however, the problem is not hard to solve. Ferns and other 
flowerless plants came early in the Divine programme, because the coal, into which they 
were to be ultimately converted, had need to be long accumulating for the future comfort and 
civilization of our race; while the genesis of Orchids was postponed until the time drew near 
when Man, who was to be soothed by the gentle influence of their beauty, or charmed by the 
marvellous variety of their structure, was about to appear upon the scene. There are multitudes 
who could bear witness how amply, in their own experience, this gracious purpose has been 
fulfilled; while the writer—in whose breast a love of Orchids prevailed from his youth up— 
can only exclaim with the Psalmist, ** Thou, Oh Lord, hast made me glad through Thy works, 
and I will rejoice in giving thanks for the operation of Thy hand.” 
Jo ۰ 
KNYPERSLEY HALL, April 24th, 1874. 
