PREFACE. 



THE aim of this little work is almost purely morpho- 

 logical ; physiological details are only occasionally 

 introduced. The two first chapters are translated, 

 with additions, the more important of which are in- 

 dicated by square brackets [ ], from Dr. G. Winter's 

 edition of " Die Pilze," in Rabenhorst's " Kryptoga- 

 men-Flora," by kind permission of the author. With 

 a view to increase its usefulness, I have added to the 

 few figures there given a considerable number drawn 

 from various sources, in many cases from the original 

 authorities, and a few of my own. I must acknow- 

 ledge my indebtedness, for help of various kinds, to 

 Dr. Winter, and also to Dr. John Anthony, of Bir- 

 mingham, and Mr. James Britten ; and, in addition, 

 to the " Summary of Current Researches," in the 

 Journal of the Royal Microscopical Society, as a guide 

 to the literature of the subject. 



W. B. GROVE. 



BIRMINGHAM, 



May ist, 1884. 



