6 INTRODUCTORY INSTRUCTIONS. 



he knows all that is "interesting in its history. But before the 

 student has submitted to the most superficial examination half 

 of the plants described in the following catalogue, he will 

 become aware of the ultimate objects of botanical study ; and 

 as it is impossible for him to form an adequate conception of 

 them at the very commencement of his career, he must consent 

 to acquire his knowledge by degrees. As to the plan and 

 object of the present work, the mode of description adopted, 

 and other circumstances, they are all in accordance with the 

 views entertained by many teachers, who have found it more 

 intelligible than other more strictly technical Floras. 



