PKEFACB. xv 



flowers of a similar colour. Divisions of these place them 

 in order according to the diameter of the flower, and then 

 each species is fully described according to its own par- 

 ticular features. Common names only are given at first, 

 but easy reference can be made to the scientific name, 

 genus and order, etc., in Part II., according to the usual 

 Natural System of Botanical Classification. 



Thus the learner can easily, by graded steps, in a 

 few minutes indeed, by the roadside get at least a 

 clue, and generally more, to the name of any plant he 

 may come across, and can verify his conclusions at leisure. 



The present plan has been carefully and thoroughly 

 tested in school whilst in an incomplete state, and is 

 now greatly enlarged so as to include every flowering 

 plant it is possible for the rambler to find growing appar- 

 ently wild in our islands. The grasses, sedges, horse- 

 tails, ferns, etc., are not included, of course, partly on 

 account of their inconspicuous colouring, and partly 

 because they are not popularly regarded as being flower- 

 ing plants at all; and, moreover, are much too difficult 

 for a beginner to hope to identify. 



The chief aims of this work, then, may be stated as 

 follows : 



1. To enable a beginner to easily name our wild flowers. 



2. To provide a complete nature -student's botanical 



calendar. 



3. To prepare the beginner for the use of a scientific 



" Flora." 



4. To develop the powers of close observation, care- 



ful contrast, and absolute verification. 



Of the great educational value and importance of 

 Nature study for young and old alike, there is now, for- 

 tunately, little need to speak ; the " Nature " movement, 

 though still comparatively young, is rapidly bringing 

 about a greater recognition of its importance in modern 

 education. The Board of Education's " Suggestions for 

 Teachers " contains abundant and remarkable testimony 

 on this point. Certain it is that no more attractive, 



