IN TROD UCTION. 1 1 



these our modern days, in the same manner 

 that an increased love for external Nature has 

 become a marked characteristic of the age. 



We are perhaps no nearer now than when 

 the present volume was written in being able 

 to decide upon the loveliest species and vari- 

 ety of the Rose. Moreover, the best rose 

 under glass is not the best rose grown out of 

 doors ; while, in any event, to pronounce upon 

 color might be at the sacrifice of form and 

 fragrance, in numerous cases 



The rose looks fair, but fairer we it deem 

 For that sweet odor that doth in it live. 



Even were a few kinds singled out from 

 the multitude for a general estimate, each of 

 which possessed exceptional claims for rec- 

 ognition, the florist would decide upon one, 

 the average person upon another ; just as one 

 might declare the Rose, another the violet, 

 lily, or primrose the sweetest flower. To be 

 restricted to any one form or color were irk- 

 some, withal, even in the case of individual 

 species 



Earth hath no princelier flowers 

 Than roses white and roses red, 

 But they must still be mingled. 



The Rose is no exception to the charm of 

 variety. Yet many of the fine old kinds are 



