6 A TEXTBOOK OF BOTANY [Ch. 1 



coverable only by prolonged investigation, are relatively 

 few in number. By utilizing these deep-lying resemblances, 

 it is possible to link together great masses of facts in gen- 

 eralized form, and thus bring the principles of botanical 

 knowledge within the comprehension of one person, who 

 may then pursue in detail any particular phase which his 

 pleasure or business may dictate. 



