128 ICOSAXDIUA. 



It has been remarked as a curious fact in nature, 

 that whenever Stamina are inserted into the Calyx, 

 whether the number be few or many, the fruit has 

 been found to be invariably wholesome 3 and although, 

 from these remarks, there would seem to be an ex- 

 ception to that rule, yet I suspect that Laurel berries 

 are in no other way unwholesome, than in as much 

 as they may partake of the peculiar secretions of the 

 leaves} not that I recommend them to be eaten, 

 since we have plenty of other fruits, but I ofter this 

 suggestion to prevent the general rule from being too 

 hastily overthrown 3 for the leaves of the reach-tree, 

 as well as the kernels of the Apricot, I am persuaded, 

 contain tlie same poisonous principle \\ith Laurel 

 leaves, if distilled and taken in a sufficient quantity ; 

 and this remark I am the more induced to make, as 

 Rattifia is a common cordial at this time, and taken 

 without suspicion that there is any latent principle in 

 it prejudicial to health. 



ORDER 2. 



PENTAGY- SERVICE TREE is a native of the warmer parts 



^^^' of Europe, where it becomes a large and lofty tree. 



FivePistilla.* 



* Dr. Smith makes this Order to include such plants as 

 have from two to five pistilia, and which from accidental 



