PREFACE. i 



all phenomena which come to its notice. So 

 strong and universal is this desire that most of us 

 will accept any explanation, however absurd, rather 

 than remain in doubt. This being the case, it cer- 

 tainly rests with those who can give true explana- 

 tions to do so. Too often the leading facts of sci- 

 ence are taught only to regular learners in schools 

 and colleges, and fail to reach the outside world, 

 where, after all, most of the lessons of life are 

 learned. I can think of no better way of impress- 

 ing a truth upon one who has no time for sys- 

 tematic study than to offer it in exchange for an 

 error already held. In recording the following 

 popular errors, therefore, I have frequently given 

 in connection with each topic a brief account of the 

 best existing information upon the subject. 



It is needless to say that this is not a text-book 

 or a systematic work on popular science; but if the 

 suggestions it contains, and the fragmentary 

 insight into a knowledge of plants which it affords, 

 shall lead any to seek further information upon the 

 subjects treated the wish of its author will be 

 gratified, 



