250 
gestion of dimorphism in this species, as the strong tendency to 
become unisexual is in large part sufficient to account for the 
greater robustness of pistil or stamen, as the case may be, which 
may readily include length of style or filament. : 
The point uppermost in Dr. Gray’s mind in publishing his 
observations seems still undetermined, namely: “ to ascertain, if 
possible, whether the short-stigma blossoms ever set seed.” In 
other words, whether there is an approximate dicecism simply, or 
a tendency toward dimorphism yet imperfectly attained. 
The pollen of the Eyigea was germinated with ease in nutri- 
ent solution, and as the grains, like nearly all of the order, are 
united in fours, it is of 
interest to show that 
all quadrants are 
equally active in pro- 
ducing tubes. Two of 
the grains are shown at 
@ before germination, 
while at 4 and ¢ are 
seen two others that have sent out four tubes, one for each quad- 
rant. It has been found that the best nutrient solution for the 
growth of the pollen is often obtained by soaking mature stigmas 
in water. 
-A Botanical Excursion to Asateague Bay, 
By H. H. Russy. 
ABSTRACT.* 
Asateague Bay is a shallow sound situated off the eastern 
Peninsula of Maryland near its southern extremity, and just at 
the boundary line between Maryland and Virginia. It is at pres- 
ent somewhat notorious as being the scene of the great oyster 
war now in progress. Near it lies the island of Chincoteague, 
especially noted for the fact that it bears a race of wild horses the 
origin of which is somewhat uncertain. These horses are known 
as “ Beach Ponies,” and are quite different in form, habits and 
powers of endurance from our ordinary horses, considerably 
resembling in these points the American mustang. Every year 
* Read before the Torrey Botanical Club. 
