XXXVI PREFACE, 
hilum it is often very short, its parts will of course 
depend on the distance between the above points. 
The Raphe either consists of spiral vessels and 
ducts, or of ducts alone, and in some cases of elon- 
gated tissue. In the generality of instances, it ter- 
^ minates opposite the apex of the cotylidons, form- 
ing the chalayza, in some it becomes at this poin- 
artite, the divisions terminal towards either side 
of the true apex of the seed, as in Carya and some 
Borjginee. In others it is continued unbranched ter- 
minaing in, or towards the outer margin of the 
origindy conspicuous foramen, as in many Com- 
posita ahd Stylidium. 
Its situation may be regarded as universally next 
the ventral suture of the ovaria, or next the axis. For 
this important fact, we are indebted to Mr, Brown, 
who has likewise proved that all exceptions to this are 
only apparent, and originate in a torsion of the funicle 
subsequently to fecundation. The same distinguished 
author has brought this into play as a distinguishing 
character, and has pointed out, that true Lo- 
niceree may be at once distinguished from their 
lies by the reversion of the situation of the raphe. 
In this point of view it is useful, as proving that in 
Boraginez, the ovaria are inverted, while in Labiate 
they are erect. In Coriaria it is dorsal, at least in one 
species from the Abor hills ; but Lam at present unable 
to say, whether this arises from a twisting of the funi- 
cle or not. 
_ In polycarpous ovaria, however there does not seem 
any fixed situation for the raphe. Thus in Legumi- 
k 
