197 



A code system for parallel modifications seems eminently desir- 

 able, but I think it should follow the character of the modification, 

 rather than the cause, the latter being often obscure. To designate 

 a particular form as a " shade form," for instance, seems to me 

 to artificially simplify matters and obscure the actual facts. With 

 shade are usually associated increased moisture and decreased 

 temperature ; but in certain places and at certain times, the exact 

 reverse is true. In all this, we come back to the great fact of 

 the complexity of natural phenomena ; and while we seek every- 

 where for general laws and find them in operation, we must not 

 forget the Linnean motto ; " Natura maxime miranda est in 

 minimis." 



University of Colorado, 

 BouLUER, Colorado. 



NOTES ON THE LIFE AND WORK OF 

 CHARLES C. FROST* 



By William A. Murrill 



Charles Christopher Frost, the " shoemaker botanist" of Brat- 

 tleboro, Vermont, by integrity and simplicity of life and single- 

 ness of purpose in his work and in his recreation amassed a 

 modest fortune and greatly advanced the knowledge of the flora 

 of his native state. 



A plain man, of great modesty, he repeatedly declined scien- 

 tific positions and honors, and stuck to his trade of shoemaking 

 during his entire working life, occupying the same shop for a 

 period of forty-nine years. When asked the reason for this he 

 replied, " Whatever I have acquired of science, in my life, came 

 through search for health and mental entertainment ; science is 

 not my profession — shoemaking is." His character was formed 

 along strictly puritanical lines, industry, simplicity, reserve, and 

 deep religious conviction being its prominent characteristics. 



Frost's success was due to a splendid intellect and close appli- 

 cation. He had no advantages, except those afforded by a small 



* Editor's Note. — This article forms an interesting introduction to Dr. Murrill's 

 paper on the Boleti of the Frost Herbarium, which is to be published in the Bulletin. 



