89 
generally known, nearly the whole were eradicated. It is hardly pos- 
sible that the Alyssum could have escaped the notice of the numerous 
botanists visiting Arthur’s Seat and its neighbourhood, had it existed 
in this locality for any length of time. The probability is, that it had 
been introduced by seed sown, likely at no very distant date, by some 
one anxious to add a species to a Flora already overstocked with 
doubtful natives. Along with Mr. Bryce and Mr. E. W. Cropper, I 
obtained this plant at Burntisland, in very small quantity.” / 
Sinapis Cheiranthus. In a field near Gullane. Not previously 
found in Scotland, and doubtfully indigenous. 
Drosera longifolia. Obtained, in company with Mr. Ross, in bogs 
at the foot of the Knock Hill, not far from the station of Carex 
irrigua. 
Hypericum Androsemum. Near Culross. 
Hypocheris glabra. Near Culross. 
Lamium maculatum levigatum. Banks of the Esk, about two miles 
above Musselburgh. 
Rumex alpinus. In two localities near the Knock Hill, both near 
cottages. 
Tulipa sylvestris, Sides of the Water of Leith, above Currie. 
Zannichellia palustris. Canal, near Fountain Bridge. 
Carex incurva. Sea shore between Longniddry and Prestonpans. 
Nightshade Family. 
‘On the Nightshade Family ;’ by Peter Fairbairn, Esq. 
Mr. Fairbairn detailed the character and properties of the Solanacezx, 
and alluded particularly to the nature and qualities of the alkaloids 
yielded by different genera and species. He remarked that the effect 
produced by such alkaloids as Hyoscyamine, Daturia, and Atropia 
were different from those produced by Solanine, especially as regards 
the dilatation of the pupil. 
Dr. T. Anderson remarked that Mr. Fairbairn had not adopted the 
division proposed by Miers into Solanacee and Atropacee, orders 
which were distinguished by estivation and other botanical charac- 
ters, as well as by their physiological properties. He did not consider 
that any correct evidence had been adduced of the narcotic properties 
of the species of Solanum. The infusion of S. Dulcamara could be 
given in large quantities without producing any narcotic effects, and 
its berries had been used as a preserve. The effects of the plants be- 
longing to the order Atropacee did not develope themselves like 
those of opium. They were more of a stimulant character and were 
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