The Evolution of Botany. 195 



lover of nature no other department of the natural sciences 

 affords more pleasure in its study than botany, and I can 

 not think of a more fit closing than repeating the words of 

 Alphonso Wood : " No science more effectually combines 

 pleasure with improvement than botany. It conducts the 

 student into the field and forest, amid the verdure of spring 

 and the bloom of summer; to the charming retreats of 

 Nature, in her wild luxuriance, or where she patiently 

 smiles under the improving hand of cultivation. It fur- 

 nishes him with vigorous exercise, both of body and mind, 

 which is no less salutary than agreeable, and its subjects of 

 investigation are all such as are adapted to please the eye, 

 refine the taste, and improve the heart." 



