56 



for these diagnostics, or, indeed, for any other that would 

 be available in such cases. 



Other similarly instructive examples might be indefinitely 

 multiplied, but it is better to indicate the way by which they 

 may be easily found and realised ; to show how a fertile field» 

 hitherto left barren, may be cultivated with such pleasure 

 and profit as to afford a source of rational amusement and 

 information to persons in the country ; to point out another 

 and refined addition to rural pursuits, and one by which a 

 reasonable hope may be entertained, even by inexperienced 

 and unskilful observers, of enlarging the bounds of botanical 

 science. 



And this is not the only value of such pursuits. In 

 themselves they afford a precious reward. Tbey beguile the 

 dull routine of professional and other employments, take us 

 out of what Milton too truly called " the troubled sea of 

 noises and hoarse disputes," cherish gentle thoughts and calm 

 desires, and multiply and refine our enjoyments ; thus en- 

 dearing many a rural walk with delightful associations of 

 . . . . " Each lane, and every alley green. 



Dingle or bushy dell, 



And every bosky bourn from side to side." 

 Such studies, too, may soften affliction ; they must convey 

 meek and touching lessons of the means of happiness so 

 bountifully spread around us, and of how cheaply some of 

 our best pleasures may be purchased. But, above all, while 

 thus teaching us to look for the good and the beautiful in 

 surrounding objects, and helping us to the true riches of 

 contentment and thankfulness— those large and best posses- 

 sions—incline our minds to the grateful habit of "looking 

 through nature up to nature's God." 



Another recommendation of the study of this depart- 

 ment of cell-biography is that the subjects are ever at 

 hand. And hence, in reply to frequent questions about 

 collections and preparations, I have constantly referred to 

 Nature's own collection, always at our disposal, and the 

 very best after all ; and there, with certainty, we may find 



