Arrangements of Plants. 53 
considerable advantage; whilst, at the same time, it affords 
an universal *key through every department of the vegetable 
world. | : 
The approbation with which the arrangement of Linnzus was 
received on its promulgation, and the subsequent adoption of it 
into general use, may be considered as the most unequivocal tes- 
timonies of its excellence. It is true, exceptions have been taken 
against particular parts, and alterations suggested in depart- 
ments of minor importance, even by the very editors of his 
works. ‘To have expected perfection in the first outline of a 
science, the materials of which are continually increasing, would 
be unreasonable; and these alterations, instead of derogating 
from, do homage to the system which they correct. The period 
however is now arrived which is to try its stability.—4A rival 
has of late risen up, and has already become truly formi- 
dable.—Under the patronage and by the influence of a neigh- 
bouring nation, this rival now comes forward, and demands 
universal homage. Its advocates are not only numerous, but 
learned ; not only acute, but earnest.—That their influence is 
daily increasing cannot be doubted; and the crisis is now 
arrived when their opinions must be either submitted to, or 
resisted. | 
Notwithstanding the favourable reception given to the sexual 
arrangement of Plants, it is well known to have made but little 
progress through the southern nations of Europe ; and the French 
in particular refused implicitly to admit the novel doctrines of 
the Swede. In Botany, 'l'ournefort continued to be their guide. 
In Zoology, Buffon directed their steps ; and their example in- 
duced the Italians, and in some degree the Germans, to follow 
the same track. From various circumstances, and particularly 
from the great accession of individuals of the vegetable kingdom 
to 
