PREFACE 



THERE may be those who will think that if remarkable 

 for anything, this little book is remarkable for its omis- 

 sions. The writer himself feels that to be so, but the 

 exigencies of space have formed an inexorable barrier, 

 and he can only hope that, as far as it goes, the matter 

 contained in its pages will be found helpful. It will be 

 noticed that Picotees culturally have been merged in 

 Carnations. The history of the various sections of popular 

 Dianthi has received more attention than it usually 

 receives. The position held by the Gilliflower in folk- 

 lore, e.g. its connection with old-time love affairs, and 

 with the Blessed in Paradise, has, however, regretfully 

 been passed over for lack of space. 



Thanks are very largely due to the many gentlemen 

 who have kindly responded to inquiries made as to special 

 questions that have arisen in the course of writing the 

 book ; and also to Dr. Masters for permission to make 

 use of articles contributed by the writer to The Gardener's 

 Chronicle. The Editor asks me to express our indebted- 

 ness also to Mr. James Douglas for the loan of some 

 interesting illustrations. 



R. P. B. 



November 28, 1903. 



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