210 ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY OF PLANTS. 



At the period of fructification the stigma is rendered moist by a 

 peculiar secreted fluid, the object of which, appears to be, to detain 

 the pollen by adhesion. 



15. The pistil is the second grand organ of fructifi- 

 cation, on which depends the perpetuation of most plants. 



In a note on the use of the stamen, we have alluded to the dis- 

 charge of the pollen on the pistil. We have now to mention, that 

 as soon as the pollen arrives at the summit of the pistil, a specific 

 action is excited, the influence of which is communicated through 

 the tube of the style to the germen ; the embryo seeds, in conse- 

 quence, receive a fresh and necessary principle which causes their 

 developement, and makes them capable of continuing the species. 

 In this manner has Nature provided for the propagation of most 

 plants, the simplicity and beauty of whose laws, we must all confess, 

 are faithfully delineated in this duty of her vegetable economy. 



OF THE NECTARY. 



16. The nectary is usually a part of the corolla, but 

 very different in its shape, structure, and general 

 appearance. 



Sometimes it resembles a tube or cylinder ; sometimes a petal, a 

 pore, or gland. In others it is a kind of slipper, or cowl, while in 

 another set of flowers, it may be a tuft of hairs or an assemblage of 

 long and slender threads on a small and minute scale. 



17. The chief purpose or intention of the nectary, is 

 to prepare a secretion which is generally sweet, and 

 hence called honey. 



OF THE SEED VESSELS. 



18. For a general description of the various kinds of 



