234 THE ORCHID REVIEW. [AUGUST, 1922. 
high seed yield is conspicuous, but among the more highly developed 
species which belong to Maxillaria, Vanda, Grammatophyllum, etc. 
As this capacity to yield seeds lavishly was developed, modifications 
-~were elaborated which prevented the serious drain on the vitality of the 
Orchid which seed production entails. The Orchids became characterized 
by the peculiarity of developing ovules only after pollination had taken 
place. Pollination not only stimulated the ovary to vigorous and often 
Jong-continued growth, but made the ovules capable of fertilization, and in 
some cases was the cause of their first appearance. 
As we study into profuse seed yield in the Orchids we begin to see it as 
a highly specialized attribute, not as a sign of low organization. Even 
though profusion of seeds may be a relic of times when the Orchids were 
Jess highly organized than they are now, it has persisted. It is closely 
bound up with the mycorrhizal phenomena that have attained such deep 
-significance in our studies of Orchid evolution. : 
What has happened may be termed an adaptation to sparse distribution. 
That is, the Orchids, although unable to take possession of large areas, 
‘because, as a result of symbiosis with fungi, they are adapted to sparse 
‘distribution, are in perfect harmony with the type of life they exhibit in a 
‘balanced flora. Open the way to new territory; and, as we have seen from 
our studies of the island of Krakatau, the Orchids are among plant 
dmmigrants to be reckoned with. 
AWARD OF THE “‘ WHITE” MEDAL.—The Massachusetts Horticultural 
Society has awarded the George Robert White Medal to Mr. A. C. Burrage, 
‘President.of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society. This Medal, estab- 
lished in tg08 by Mr. G. R. White, of Boston, is awarded annually by the 
-above Society to the person who has done the most in recent years towards 
the advancement of the interest in horticulture in its broadest sense. In 
1914 it was awarded to Sir Harry J. Veitch. 
OBITUARY.—We deeply regret to record the death, which took place on 
July 13th, of Dr. Fred Bedford, B.Sc., aged 43 years. But few amateurs 
have shown so much enthusiasm or acquired so many special varieties and 
rare botanical species as did the late Dr. Bedford during the last few years 
He had only recently removed his collection from Fulford, York, to Marden, 
Kent, where an extensive range of glass had been erected. He will be 
greatly missed by the Orchid world, and especially by those who 5° 
frequently enjoyed his genial hospitality. The interment took place at 
‘Sleaford Cemetery on July 17th. ; 
