146 ABOUT MOSSES AND LICHENS. [CHAP. 
of the receptacle, and contain spores mixed with 
elaters, as in the Scale-mosses. The fronds also 
bear upon their upper surface little cups 
containing spore-like bodies, which are 
really buds, or gemme, and capable of de- 
veloping into perfect plants. The pur- 
pose of these buds is evidently to per- 
petuate the plant when it is growing 
under conditions unfavourable to the pro- 
duction of spores. 
Formerly this species had a great re- 
putation for its supposed medicinal vir- 
tues. Old Culpepper says of it: “It is under the 
dominion of Jupiter, and under the sign Cancer. It 
is a singular good herb for all the diseases of the 
liver, both to cool and cleanse it, and helpeth the ~ 
inflammations in any part, and the yellow jaundice 
likewise : Being bruised and boiled in small beer, and 
drunk, it cooleth the heat of the liver and kidneys.” 
The remaining order of this group of plants is 
known as the Azcczacee or Crystalworts. It is a very 
| small order, containing only six 
SSyGigse British species. They are some- 
Wane what similar in structure to the 
Liverworts; but simpler. The 
spore cases are not stalked, but 
borne upon the surface of the 
frond, or embedded in it, as in 
fic. 112. The spores are zot mixed with elaters in 
this group, neither do the spore cases split into 
valves, 
The Lichens are more nearly allied to the Fungz, 
Fic. 111. 
Fic. rr2. 
