Introductory 



suggested, supplemented by the argu- 

 ments that the laurel - like look of the 

 flowers at once betrayed their lineage, 

 and that the sheep - sorrel was the plant 

 with halberd-shaped leaves and tiny clus- 

 tered flowers which in spring tinges with 

 red the grassy uplands, he would only re- 

 ply with dignified decision that his convic- 

 tion was based on trustworthy authority. 

 So, perhaps, in at least one small circle, 

 sheep-laurel is sheep-sorrel to this day. 



But the uninitiated probably allow their 

 imaginations to run more rife with the 

 orchids than with any other flowers. 

 They are usually quite positive as to the 

 general correctness of their conception of 

 an orchid, and unless you are prepared to 

 be made the object of a very genuine 

 aversion, you will beware of trying to 

 convince them of the error of their ways. 

 In response to any such attempt they will 

 defiantly challenge you: ''Well, then, 

 what is an orchid ? ' ' and woe betide you 

 7 



