ABSTRACT
Japan might as well be called the Land of Pines as the Land of Cherry Blossoms, for pines are found all over the country as well as cherry trees. The cherry is no doubt the flower of flowers for the Japanese, for the timeliness of its blossoming and the lightness of its behaviour have a peculiar attraction for us. The plum blossom is the first to decorate the floral calendar, and as such it is greeted with joy, but there is something saintly in the atmosphere it creates: the sense of reverence and the attitude to be taught and inspired seem to be the prevailing mood in one who approaches this harbinger of spring. The indifference with which it regards the inclemencies of the weather is a noble lesson in courage and endurance. The fragrance with which it perfumes the surrounding air is an object lesson in the virtue of generosity and munificence. The plum blossom is a moralist to whom one looks up for example and counsel.
