CHAPTER II.

EARLY PREPARATION OF FLOWERS.

John Thorpe sent to the front — The erection of greenhouses and other floricultural structures — Loans of palms
and ferns by wealthy owners of conservatories in Philadelphia and New York — Millions of plants under
way — A mountain of palms and ferns — A winter exhibition — Magnificent tribute paid the great florist by
the brilliant John McGovern — Press and people filled with admiration and praise — A flowery article from
"Uuclejohn" 69