6 A TEXTBOOK OF BOTANY [Cn. 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. 



