Chapter 14 Summary

Gemmy has been assisting Mr. Frazer with his botany work. He is entranced by Frazer's action of sketching plants; feeling the spirit of the effort itself. Mr. Frazer is rapidly becoming an advocate to preserve the Australian native land, instead of merely "defeating" it. He writes about using native animals and plants for subsistence, as opposed to importing everything from Europe. He feels that there is much to learn. Gemmy senses this awareness in him and is impressed by his understanding.

Mr. Frazer has sought out botany as an escape from the stress and monotony of everyday life since he was a child. He has gone on night walks most of his life and feels that Gemmy has helped him to enjoy his favorite pastime during the light of day. He spends endless hours jotting in his notebook about the wisdom of understanding...