Preface 
For nearly forty years, the Myrsinaceae have intrigued me. My first collections 
of Parathesis were made in 1928 at Honey Camp in British Honduras. Interest 
in this genus developed in the years 1938-1946 during which period I described 
ten new species from Mexico and Central America. 
Almost entirely tropical in distribution, the family has received only sporadic 
attention from taxonomists in the Western Hemisphere. Principal treatments 
are in floristic works. Collections have accumulated in American herbaria under 
a confusion of names. My current studies are concentrated on the family in 
Mexico and Central America. 
This monograph of Parathesis is an attempt to critically evaluate all the 
species of one of the larger natural genera. Although I have made field observa- 
tions on some lowland species in eastern Mexico, Guatemala and British Hon- 
duras, the study has been based primarily on herbarium specimens. 
In an attempt to present as useful a treatment of the genus as possible, the 
species are illustrated either by Text Figures or Plates or by both. The drawings 
are the fine handiwork of Miss Vivien Frazier of Dallas. I am deeply indebted 
to her for her splendid collaboration. Miss Frazier’s patient and careful work 
adds much to the value of the study. All of the photographs for the Plates were 
made by Dr. L. J. Streetman and Mr. Charles Julian of the staff of Texas 
Research Foundation. Also, Mr. Julian photographed all types and isotypes 
as well as representative collections of most of the species of the genus, and 
grateful acknowledgment is made for his help, as well as that of Dr. Streetman. 
My Secretary, Mrs. Lillian Harvey, has assisted in the study from its inception 
through publication. She has edited and typed the manuscript, prepared the 
list of cited specimens, and indexed the volume. For her significant contributions, 
I express my deep appreciation. 
Grants from the Dodge Jones Foundation have supported field studies in 
Guatemala, and made possible the illustration of this monograph. To Mrs. 
Ruth Jones of Abilene, grateful acknowledgment is made for this financial aid, 
and for the encouragement she has given to my work in so many ways. 
Renner, Texas 
April, 1966. 
