As Smooth as Velvet 
A direct color photograph print of four cactus leaves after Mr. 
Burbank had taken the plant backward in its evolution 
to 
spinelessness. Not only have the outward spines vanished, but all of 
the thousands of rudimentary spines, bundled up inside, as well. 
Contrasted with its parent varieties, it is not only possible to handle 
spineless cactus with impunity, but it is so soft and velvety that 
it can be safely rubbed over the face. Either in the form of 
slabs, or cut into strips, or ground into meal, cattle 
instinctively prefer cactus to any other food. The 
elephants from 4a passing circus showed an 
immediate liking for the new food and 
vigorously trumpeted for more. 
