178 FERNS IN THEIR HOMES AND OURS. 



an asylum for the insane, should have some one 

 thing in which an intellectual interest is taken, 

 some hobby, or something that may grow into 

 one. Forced to study what we detest, and what 

 we can see no use in studying, we shall inevitably 

 neglect such studies; but taken at the point on 

 which their interest is concentrated, and led by skil- 

 ful hands and a clear head, those whose lives would 

 otherwise become dull or trivial can be indirectly 

 guided to much higher aims and attainments. 



The writer will not claim that the fern-mania, 

 which may be traced from its beginning across 

 the ocean to its recent development in this coun- 

 try, is a hobby superior to most others : but he 

 does claim, that, properly guided, it can be the 

 means of stimulating pure and healthy exercise 

 and study ; and that, whether pursued in a scien- 

 tific way or only as a pastime, it can, in any 

 event, do no harm, but may be the cause of great 

 and permanent good. 



If this little book shall in any way conduce to 

 the love of the graceful plants of whose culture it 

 treats, or aid any beginner in the study of the 

 ferns, the writer will feel that another pleasure 

 has been added to that which he has already ex- 

 perienced in its composition. 



