222 BUDS AND STIPULES 



I think, then, as already stated, we must conclude that 

 stipules are an integral part of the leaf; that leaflets are 

 portions of the leaf-blade ; and that, if we consider the 

 leaf-blade as a part separate from the petiole, we must 

 regard the leaf as consisting of four parts, viz. : 



1 . The blade. 



2. The petiole. 



3. The stipules. 



4. The base. 



Perhaps, however, it would really be more consistent 

 with the facts to regard it as composed of two parts : 



1. The upper part, or petiole, generally provided 

 with a leaf-blade ; and 



2. The base, which also is often provided with a 

 pair of stipules. 



