PREFACE. 



THIS book is written to give information on the Textile Fibres that 

 are used in the various industries of the world. 



In preparing it for publication, I have felt that there is need 

 for information on this subject, if only to clear up obscure ideas 

 that are prevalent as to the plants that produce the plumose or 

 bastose fibres used in commerce. 



In honouring me by the request to prepare this work, my 

 publishers had in view the want that exists for a text and refer- 

 ence book on the processes by which fibres are obtained, and the 

 purpose for which they are used in the different industries of 

 commerce. 



Most of the illustrations are from photographs or sketches 

 from actual examples, made by myself, assisted by a few friends. 

 My thanks are specially due to Sir William T. Thistleton Dyer, 

 Director of the Eoyal Gardens, Kew, for the very many facilities 

 he has given me during my visits to Kew. Also to Dr. Daniel 

 Morris, Assistant-Director of the Eoyal Gardens, for his identifica- 

 tion of certain doubtful species of fibres. 



In my numerous visits to the Economic Museums at Kew, 

 I have received valuable information and the kindest of attention 

 from Mr. John R. Jackson, Keeper of the Museums, Mr. J. Hillier, 

 the Assistant-Keeper, and Mr. Irving, head of the Herbaceous 

 Department. 



I also thank those who are mentioned in the text or have 

 furnished me with specimens, as well as the following who have 



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