PREFACE. 



" In the country 'tis true ye have woods, gardens, springs, and bronks 

 that may entertain the eye, but these are all mute, and there's no edifica- 

 tion without discourse." ERASMUS. 



^HE purpose of this book is to discourse on " My 

 -* Garden," the more important plants growing in it, and 

 the manner in which they are cultivated. It also treats of 

 all objects appertaining to my garden. 



My garden is an experimental garden, designed to obtain 

 information; and it is also a practical garden, from which my 

 residence in London is exclusively supplied with vegetals, fruit, 

 and flowers. 



I have required, and received, assistance in all the depart- 

 ments of nature which have come within the scope of my 

 discourse. From Dr. Gray, of the British Museum, the veteran 

 of natural history, I have ever received the kindest considera- 

 tion and aid, and especially on the present occasion on matters 

 connected with the land and fresh-water shells. Dr. Giinther, 

 also of the British Museum, has given me the fullest aid upon 

 questions appertaining to fresh-water fish. Mr. Woodward 

 has rendered his valuable assistance on geological questions ; 



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