26 



he authority for both the generic and siiecitic names. Another diffi- 

 culty that is inci easing to an alarming extent is that of the numerous 

 varieties that are being recognized ; so plentiful arc they, that a triple 

 name is now becoming as common as a douVde one. 



However, as every evil works its own cure, so from this state we 

 "may hope to derive a more simple science, whore one name only will be 

 recognized and no authority required — a custom now being advocated 

 by many American naturalists. 



Hitherto the feeble state of natural history has compelled Cana- 

 dian naturalists to cling to the skirts of our friends in the United 

 States, depending solely on them as our authorities. But now with 

 our rapid advance we require a national authority upon such matters, 

 and it is pleasing to know that in the Geological and Natural History 

 Survey, we have our wants supplied. During the past year, under its 

 authority, has been issued the first part of a oatiilogue of Canadian plants 

 prepared by Prof. Macoun, which must become our recognized authority. 

 No doubt the energetic director. Doctor Selwyn, will, as researches 

 under his direction are extended, use all endeavours to continue the 

 publication of such aids to enquirers in all other branches of natural 

 history. 



In offering you these few remarks, ray object has been 

 to point out how very important, and what a source of 

 gratification must be a knowledge of this nature. If I 

 have impressed you with its value, a little study on your 

 part will soon familiarize you with the subject. Could more of our 

 beginners see it in this light, we should have fewer back-sliders and a 

 host of earnest and energetic workers. In this age it is becoming 

 fashionable to be versed in science, and numbers rush wildly after 

 nature and think they understand what is seen. But they soon tire 

 and wonder where the attraction lies. Others energetically learn 

 names and make collections, but they also tire and gradually lose 

 interest. Would they but master these principles and learn 

 to read the book of nature, its illustrations would afford them 

 unthought-of attractions, and ever present something new. 



I would advise all who begin the study to learn the piinciples of 

 nature, and I promise as their reward a rich treat— a life-long pleasure. 



