XVIII 
ALASKA 
Last, but not least, comes Alaska; even if last to 
arrive on the map of the Union, yet not least in size of 
territory or in flowers, and with still another condition 
of climate to be considered. Alaskan gardens are as 
yet but tiny modest plots against the gray log cabins, 
suggesting the homes of our Pilgrim fathers on the milder 
New England coast so long ago, and as we think of the 
stone and marble pergolas in modern New England, there 
comes the suggestion: “Then why not Alaska likewise 
some day?” 
To those who think of Alaska only as a land of snow 
and ice, descriptions of its flower-surrounded log cabins 
seem like impossible dreams. Quoting from Reverend 
Mr. Lumpkin’s paper: 
“ In coming into Alaska, you first awake to the beauti- 
ful reality in Skagway. This is the point where the White 
Pass road is taken to make connection with the river boats 
for the interior. Your eyes rest upon the wonderful fulfil- 
ment of the flowers and your crag-weary soul is refreshed. 
“Every growing thing in Alaska seems to exemplify 
the Alaskan spirit, and that is to make the very best of 
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