168 
Page 172 has a cut of some Papaver, evidently taken froma + 
florist’s catalogue, which is used to illustrate Anemone. The 
error was possibly the florist’s originally, and the poor author 
knew no better than to perpetuate it. 
Page 173 is striking by a wonderful composite picture of a 
Claytonia and an Hepatica, springing from one root. It is lab- 
eled Hepatica. 
Page 174 contains another combination consisting of two 
Sedums and a spike of some totally different flowers (upside 
down), the combination being called “ Larkspur.” 
The evils resulting from trying to use common names only 
in describing plants are glaringly demonstrated throughout and 
many of the most absurd errors may be attributed to this source. 
Thus the author has doubtless heard Ara/ia called “ ground nut,” 
so when he wishes to illustrate the ‘‘ Ginseng Family” a figure 
of Afzos is used, because that also is known as “ ground nut.” 
Again on page 152 there is a picture of a Eupatorium perfoliatum, 
which is labeled “ Comfrey,” probably because they are both 
known under the name of “ Thoroughwort.” 
We extend our heartiest sympathies to all who have derived 
their knowledge of botany from this source, as we are hardly yet 
prepared to admit that Gray’s Manual could be more puzzling 
than the attempt to reconcile a description of Asclepias with a 
figure of Galium, or a determination to see Anemone in Papaver. 
We have noted a few of the worst absurdities ; there are many 
more, ey Ee SS 
Scolithus—T, he Genus. Jos. F. James. (Bull. Geol. Soc. Am. 
Il. 32-44; figs. I-15), 
The author has here collected together most of the references 
to the problematic organisms described from time to time under 
the genus Scolithus, They have been variously referred to 
Alge under the name of Fucoides and Eophyton, to worm borings 
under Scolithus (Skolithos originally) and Avenicolites and ev? 
to the sponges. The paper is a useful compilation of the diverse 
views held by various authorities upon the subject. A. H. 
Seed Coats of Malvacee—The. P. H, Rolfs. (Bot. Gaz. xvi 
33, with plate). 
