THE GALAX-LEAVED SHORTIA. 



in all there may have been from fifty to one hundred plants. As 

 the plant multiplies by stolons it is remarkable that its area should 

 be thus restricted. And since in the struggle for life, of two allied 

 plants the weakest must go, Dr. Gray has suggested the proba- 

 bility that its stronger cousin the Galax had crowded out the 

 Shortia. And here, indeed, in what may be the last foothold of 

 the rarity, Galax appeared to be actually doing so. Yet the plants, 

 though comparatively few, were vigorous and healthy. In June, 

 the fruit of this vernal plant had mainly gone by, but Dr. Gray 

 secured a capsule or two with some seeds." 



This rare and charming plant was named for Prof. Short, a noted 

 Kentucky botanist who died in 1863. I did not see how I could 

 do this floral rarity a greater honor than to frame its interesting 

 story with the shining lines of our lamented poet, which now for 

 near half a century have gone up and down the earth like a 

 deathless strain of sweet music, awakening fine echoes in every 

 heart that loves the flowers. 



Everywhere about us are they glowing, 

 Some like stars to tell us spring is born , 



Others, their blue eyes with tears o'erHowing, 

 Stand like Ruth amid the golden corn ; 



Not alone in' meadows and green alleys. 



On the mountain top, and by the brink 

 Of sequestered pools in woodland valleys. 



Where the slaves of nature stoop to drink ; 



In all places, then, and in all seasons, 



Flowers expand their light and soul-like wings, 



Teaching us, by most persuasive reasons. 

 How akin they are to human things. 



