"In only sixteen years," he said, "this walnut tree reached a state
of abundant nut production to which an unaided nature would have
brought the tree in twice that time."
[Illustration: Luther Burbank, beloved friend, poses with me in
his Santa Rosa garden.--see burbank.jpg]
[Illustration: Luther Burbank--see burbank2.jpg]
Burbank's little adopted daughter came romping with her dog into
the garden.
"She is my human plant." Luther waved to her affectionately. "I see
humanity now as one vast plant, needing for its highest fulfillments
only love, the natural blessings of the great outdoors, and
intelligent crossing and selection. In the span of my own lifetime
I have observed such wondrous progress in plant evolution that I
look forward optimistically to a healthy, happy world as soon as its
children are taught the principles of simple and rational living.
We must return to nature and nature's God."
"Luther, you would delight in my Ranchi school, with its outdoor
classes, and atmosphere of joy and simplicity."
My words touched the chord closest to Burbank's heart-child
education. He plied me with questions, interest gleaming from his
deep, serene eyes.
"Swamiji," he said finally, "schools like yours are the only hope
of a future millennium. I am in revolt against the educational systems
of our time, severed from nature and stifling of all individuality.
I am with you heart and soul in your practical ideals of education.
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