XV 
PLANTS THAT CARRY LIFE INSURANCE 
N the plant kingdom, as in the human, the idea 
of preparing for a rainy day, and also of pro- 
viding for the protection of offspring, has led to 
the plants’ highest and noblest development. Men 
carry life-insurance policies so that in case of death 
their families will be protected, and their children 
be given a fair chance for success in life. Life 
insurance with them, however, is of comparatively 
recent origin; but with the vegetable kingdom it is 
not so: for countless centuries the plants have been 
familiar with all forms of insurance. It is by 
means of their wonderful experiences, through this 
long period of ups and downs, failures and suc- 
cesses—just as in the life of human kind—that 
they have gained their remarkable social and po- 
litical, as well as religious and spiritual understand- 
ing—underneath all of which there must be a divine 
wisdom! 
Every plant at its death leaves a legacy to its 
offspring. This legacy is usually in the form of 
133 
