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Genus Ctenopieris. * 
In which the veims are simply branched, and the branches free at 
the extremity ; they never anastomose or form a net-work. Example, 
Ctenopteris vulgaris of Newman (Polypodium vulgare of Linneus). 
The group is thus characterised by Pres] :—“ Sori aut omnes aut sal- 
tem superiores in apice globuloso vena venuleve.” In the few spe- 
cies with which I am more particularly acquainted the cluster of 
capsules is seated on the subglobose extremity of the anterior branch 
of a free, branched vein; this, however, must not be considered cha- 
racteristic of the genus. 
Genus Marginarta. 
A most interesting genus, in which the venation differs from 
that of Ctenopteris in a striking manner; one branch of each system 
of veins is free and capitulate, the capitulus bearing the cluster of 
capsules ; and the other branches above and below this free branch 
spread right and left, and then, returning, meet beyond the cluster, 
forming a circle around it. I believe there are a great number of 
closely allied species; the fronds of all are simple or pinnatifid. 
Family DavaLiieg. 
In which the rhizome has no obvious division into nodes, and the 
clusters of capsules are not exposedas in the Rhizophyliex, but hidden 
in a marginal or discal cup; the veins are more or less branched, but 
always free at the extremity. The fronds fall off annually, dehiscing 
at an articulation close to the base of the stipes ; the cicatrix thus left 
is usually covered by the deuse scales, and entirely hidden froursight. 
Genus Pachypleuria, &e. 
There are three plants known to botanists under the generic names 
Pachypleuria, Humata and Colposoria, which appear curiously inter- 
mediate between Ctenopteris and Davallia. The rhizome is exposed, 
rather slender, scandent, and densely scaly ; the fronds simple or pin- 
natifid; the veims branched, the extremities bearing the clusters of 
* The generic name Ctenopteris appears to have been differently eraployed by 
Mr. Smith ; if prier to my using it, in the sense now intended, of course my name will 
fail. The name Ctenopteris, as now restricted, is, however, of lung standing, first, I 
think, employed by Blame, afterwards by Presl. 
