38 ALPINE FLOWERS AND GARDENS 



and maintains, an astonishing power for the due 

 expression of its necessity in the face of heavy odds. 

 Surely its smile of equanimity at Winter's threats 

 of extermination is amply justified ! 



What more inspiring than this cheerful optimism 

 — optimism begot of a sure capacity ? Small need, 

 here, for pity and pathos ! Better engaged are we 

 in follo\\ing this little flower's lead by looking facts 

 in the face with that true pessimism, three parts 

 optimism, which nourishes a due and proper energy. 

 For thus may we acquire, as has acquired the 

 Crocus, such efficiency as alone means soundest 

 happiness. 



Noting the unconcerned and enviable content of 

 this efficient plant under conditions which, with all 

 our boasted intelUgence and resource, would appal 

 us, must we not, in all conscience, exclaim, as 

 Wordsworth exclaimed : 



' And I must think, do all I can, 

 That there was pleasure there.* 



* If this belief from heaven be sent, 

 If such be Nature's holy plan, 

 Have I not reason to lament 

 What man has made of man ?' 



