He had been one of a small army of workers under the orders of an imposing head gardener, whose knowledge was a science.

He had seen and taken part in what was done in orchid houses, orangeries, vineries, peach houses, conservatories full of wondrous tropical plants.

But it was not easy for a man like himself, uneducated and lacking confidence of character, to advance as a bolder young man might have done.

The all-ruling head gardener had inspired him with awe.

He had watched him reverently, accumulating knowledge, but being given, as an underling, no opportunity to do more than obey orders.