ClIAP. III.] 



THE GARDEN OF PLANTS. 



65 



There never was a more reasonable demand, and it must be 

 granted sooner or later. The question of expense is no sufficient 

 excuse. Surely the first and most legitimate object for expendi- 

 ture in such a garden is that it may be enjoyed by those who pay 

 for it. It is, however, very doubtful if early opening would 

 increase the expense in any material way ; but assuming for a 

 moment that it would, the answer is — save the money needed, by 

 reducing expenditure on things less essential than the opening 

 of the Gardens. The hours in public gardens should be from 

 six o'clock until dusk throughout the summer, and in winter 

 from nine o'clock till dusk. 



