PREFACE. Vll 



As far as space would admit, comparisons between different 

 species, in appearance, affinity, &c., have been noted. These 

 will often be found to be of great value in the identification of 

 species. Observations (under the line which records habitats, 

 &c.) other than my own bear the initials of their authors. The 

 claims of space have necessarily made these very brief. The 

 spore-measurements are those of Berkeley (M.J.B.), Berkeley 

 and Broome (B. & Br.), Britzelmayer (B.), Karsten (K.), 

 Phillips (W.P.), Plowright (C.B.P.), and Worthington Smith 

 (W.G.S.) 



Of the illustrations, it is sufficient to say that they are the 

 work of Mr Worthington Smith. All the original coloured 

 drawings, life - size, as well as actual examples, are in the 

 British Museum, Natural History Department, South Ken- 

 sington, where they may be seen by any one who desires to 

 examine them ; and I desire to express our special obligation 

 to Dr Carruthers for the trouble and care he has taken in 

 arranging them for future reference. 



It is impossible to acknowledge in detail, as I could have 

 wished, the assistance I have received in the preparation of the 

 work ; but it is with unfeigned pleasure that I desire to record 

 my special obligation to the Rev. M. J. Berkeley, Rev. Canon 

 Du Port, Rev. Dr Keith, Rev. David Paul, W. Phillips, C. B. 

 Plowright, and Worthington G. Smith. We have had many 

 discussions. Sometimes we have differed in opinion. Mpre 

 frequently we have agreed. The results are in the hands of 

 critics. 



In interpreting the mind of Fries, serious differences will be 

 found between the descriptions contained in the present work 

 and many which have been published in ' Grevillea.' I can 

 only request that, before deciding between them, scholars will 

 examine and compare the descriptions of Fries in the original 

 language. 



J. S. 



Glamis, 1886. 



