XVIII 



ALASKA 



Last, but not least, comes Alaska; even if last to 

 arrive on the map of the Union, yet not least in size of 

 territory or in flowers, and with still another condition 

 of climate to be considered. Alaskan gardens are as 

 yet but tiny modest plots against the gray log cabins, 

 suggesting the homes of our Pilgrim fathers on the milder 

 New England coast so long ago, and as we think of the 

 stone and marble pergolas in modern New England, there 

 comes the suggestion: "Then why not Alaska likewise 

 some day?" 



To those who think of Alaska only as a land of snow 

 and ice, descriptions of its flower-surrounded log cabins 

 seem like impossible dreams. Quoting from Reverend 

 Mr. Lumpkin's paper: 



"In coming into Alaska, you first awake to the beauti- 

 ful reality in Skagway. This is the point where the White 

 Pass road is taken to make connection with the river boats 

 for the interior. Your eyes rest upon the wonderful fulfil- 

 ment of the flowers and your crag-weary soul is refreshed. 



"Every growing thing in Alaska seems to exemplify 

 the Alaskan spirit, and that is to make the very best of 



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