MEMOIR OF DAVEY. XV. 



occurs sparingly in Cornwall and elsewhere. One tree stands 

 in the hedge opposite the gate of "Beechwood," Perranwell. 



It was a good thing that Davey appeared on the scene 

 when he did, for, although the earlier Cornish botanists did 

 excellent pioneer work, they kept almost entirely to their own 

 districts; they worked singly; many of their records were not 

 published, and such as were are mostly scattered. Davey 

 supplemented their work by collecting their records together, 

 and, by visiting many parts of the County, obtained a first-hand 

 knowledge of the range of plants far better than any of them 

 had. But he did much more than this. By his enthusiasm he 

 created a new school of Cornish botanists, which, it is to be 

 hoped, will continue the good work their master started, not 

 only for the work's sake, but also with the sentiment that they 

 are doing what he would have wished to be done. 



I may include one little incident, which we frequently 

 referred to afterwards. On one of his week-end visits to me, 

 while we were out walking together, we met a mutual friend, 

 an elderly Minister, who, on account of his loveable character, 

 was known as "Daddy." After a few words of greeting he 

 said solemnly : ** Davey, if you knew your Bible as you know 

 your botany, you would be a power in the world," and passed 

 on. 



I have good authority for stating that, in his profession, 

 Davey was a faithful and reliable Agent to his Directors, who 

 felt towards him a personal regard, and realised that the em- 

 ployment they were able to give him was not really commen- 

 surate with his attainments, and offered little scope for his 

 special qualifications. By those working under him he was 

 regarded with those feelings of affection, which he inspired in 

 all with whom he came in contact. 



As a botanist he was very careful, thorough, painstaking 

 and hardworking. He was a delightful correspondent, and his 

 letters, written in a clear clerical hand, with usually a sparkle 

 of wit in them, were a pleasure to read. When necessary he 

 could be very tactful, and always avoided hurting the feelings 

 of anyone. He never annexed the records of others, and, being 

 perfectly fair himself, expected to be treated in like manner. 

 As a companion he was always genial and cheery, sympathetic 

 with the troubles of others, but never grumbling about his own. 

 It was a pleasure to walk with him in his own neighbourhood, 

 to see how much he was respected and loved by all. 



CHAMBRE C. VIGURS. 



