78 Recent Literature. [zoe 



Lack of space forbids our dwelling upon the very full account of 

 the characteristic groups of the Calamarieae, Lepidodendroideae, Si- 

 gillaricce and Sphenophylleae. The first, which are usually supposed 

 to show unquestionably near relationship to Equisetum, are shown 

 to be much more imperfectly understood than was supposed, but 

 for the details of the discussion the reader must be referred to the 

 work in question. It is rather unfortunate that the angiosperms 

 are not treated, as it would be extremely interesting to hear the 

 author's views upon the origin of the group, as well as to have the 

 data upon which to work for one's self. 



The translation of the book and the typography are alike admira- 

 ble, but it is a pity that it was not revised up to date, as several im- 

 portant works have appeared since the original was written. By a 

 curious oversight this lack of revision was carried even to the title- 

 page, where we are informed that the author is professor at Gottin- 

 gen, although he succeeded De Bary at Strasburg more than three 

 years ago. D. H. c. 



Outlmes of Lessons in Botany for the use of Teachers, and Moth- 

 ers Studying with their Children. By Jane H. Newell. Part II. 

 Flower and Fruit. The author of this little volume is an enthusi- 

 astic teacher, imbued with the spirit of modern science. The chil- 

 dren are to study the plants themselves, so as to become original 

 observers and thinkers instead of the " intellectual parasites " that 

 so generally disgrace our schools. They are to be led to draw the 

 parts of the flower, etc., united and separated, and in different sec- 

 tions. The correct botanical terms are to be learned as the neces- 

 sity arises for their use. One of the most valuable features of the 

 work consists of numerous suggestions for investigation into the 

 habits of plants, particularly concerning the fertilization of flowers. 

 Even quite little children may discover treasures of knowledge in 

 this almost unexplored field. The study will become interesting 

 and inspiring with such an incentive to patient, careful observation. 



That the plants studied are chiefly those of New England, would 

 make no difference to anyone but a rote teacher. It is the method 

 illustrated by these studies that gives the book its great value as an 

 aid to the teacher who is striving for the true education of pupils. 



A. E. 



