THE STORY OF THE DAVIDIA 295 



ruthlessly burnt for no reason other than to gratify 

 a whim of an unbalanced mind. Fortunately a 

 goodly number were saved through timely action 

 and a larger number had previously been sold and 

 distributed. These trees in increasing numbers are 

 now flowering each successive season. After sixteen 

 years I have thought it of interest — and for history's 

 sake desirable — to place on record the facts concern- 

 ing the vicissitudes and difficulties which beset my 

 path in the introduction of every seedling plant but one 

 of this remarkable tree. 



