Authentic Science Fiction Monthly, No. 56 — page 119: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

AUTHENTIC SCIENCE FICTION George responded. “‘But what does he base his theory on? And he surely doesn’t expect us to believe that one day we'll see neat little para- graphs in the papers about gardeners being ‘cowed by cabbages’.”’ They both laughed at the idea, but John went on more seriously: “‘No, J] don’t think Chlorella Physis has ever thought of bizarre beetroots. His theories are much more, profound. In fact, he is doing research on this notion. It started a few years ago when it occurred to him that the power of adaptation in the plant kingdom is beyond anything we know in the animal world. Contrast the habitat of the cactus and any common marsh plant. Or if you like, consider the half a hundred plant species which are capable of withstanding extreme cold, then compare them with tropical plants adapted to the high tempera- ture common to their habitat.” “Agreed,” George an- swered. “‘If I understand cor- 118 rectly, the theory is that there may be an attempt by plant life to produce a new species capable of repelling man, or even co-operating with human life in a kind of symbiosis. Each species contributing something to the life and well- being of the other.” John nodded and knocked his pipe out on the side of the hearth. It was clear from his manner that his mind was dwelling on other things. “I liked his theory. I haven’t told him or any other human soul, but I have been experi- menting along: those lines, using plant hormones for speed and adaptation.” “Not really ?’’ said George, sitting up to hear more. “Took here,’ John con- tinued, “‘let’s go out to the Crystal Palace and I can show you the work up to date. There’s heat and light out there, and I think you will find it worth your while.” The library led off the den and a small corridor took them into the place conmicloooks.comn