ACOTYLEDONE^E. 27 



sub-orders, sections, and alliances, are so multiplied 

 and multiplying to such an interminable extent, 

 that it is in some degree discouraging to the student, 

 as well as to some practical botanists. Still the out- 

 lines and striking characteristics of the divisions, 

 classes, and major part of the orders are so truly 

 natural and satisfactory, that it is certainly a pleasant 

 and interesting treat to be led through the labyrinths 

 of vegetation by such a master ; though it may be 

 safely predicted, that it is reserved for some future 

 disciple to re-arrange the Jussieuan system : who by 

 disregarding minor distinctions, doubtful alliances, 

 and mere shades of physical difference, may render 

 the whole both more simple and concise. 



SECTION I. ACOTYLEDONEJE. 



IN the following review we may repeat that it is 

 only the more ostensible features of the system which 

 are intended to be noticed; short descriptions, and 

 figures when necessary, will accomplish what is pro- 

 posed, viz. to give a plain survey of the physical 

 constitution of plants. In order to this it will be 

 expedient to begin with the lowest grade, viz. 



Fungi. The microscope has very much extended 

 our knowledge of many minute plants which would 

 for ever have escaped the naked eye ; and it may be 

 presumed, that numbers still remain unknown, not 

 only on the surface of the earth and on various mine- 



