X PREFACE. 



and he has had the advantage of assisting in the 

 formation of a Mockery and Pond on the most 

 extensive scale. 



As he has long felt that this beautiful and 

 interesting group are too much the victims of 

 neglect, he has been induced to make the attempt 

 of being useful in assisting the inexperienced bota- 

 nical cultivator (for whom it is chiefly designed^ 

 to a knowledge of their culture; and to draw the 

 attention of the admirers of Flora, in general, 

 to this much neglected, but very interesting tribe of 

 Plants; and, by perusing these hints, the practical 

 man may likewise be stimulated to greater exer- 

 tions in their cultivation. 



There is no class of plants more worthy the 

 attention of Ladies, as they are, in themselves, 

 very interesting and beautiful; and when once 

 a collection is formed, the major part of them 

 are easily managed, as they do not, like many 

 other families of Plants, require the application 

 of manures and composts, or any extra labours 

 which Ladies could not well overtake. Those who 

 may try the Wardian Case, recommended at the 

 close of the Treatise, will find it well suited for 

 the growth of most of these Plants, and a source 

 of much pleasure and amusement, either in toivn 

 or country. 



