xvi PREFACE. 



interesting, or valuable means for the production of healthy 

 mental occupation and training can be named at the 

 present time. 



In compiling thia little handbook I have relied prin- 

 cipally on my own observations, records, and measure- 

 ments made during a period of fifteen years ; but in every 

 doubtful case I have taken as my authority Hooker's 

 "Student's Flora." 



I strongly advise the beginner to record at least the 

 date and place for every plant he names. With regard to 

 the vexed question of rare plants, I hold that it is quite 

 possible to find the name without uprooting the plant. 

 If it is really necessary to carry away any portion at all, 

 a single flower from the inflorescence will be quite suffi- 

 cient. 



If this handbook assists other beginners, wandering 

 over a path on which at first the writer often stumbled, 

 the aims and purposes of the work will have been accom- 

 plished. 



Bradwdl, June, 1906. T, F. 



