144 BOTANICAL GAZETTE. [ June, 
at once-the internal character of the stem and the color of the flesh. This may 
be done by making a vertical secton through the center of the pileus and its 
In the Agarici it is of the first importance to ascertain the color of the 
spores. The numerous species have been arranged by Fries and other authors 
in series depending upon this character, and, when it has been ascertained, the 
first step has been taken toward the proper lowation and identification of the 
species. The color of the lamelle in mature specimens often sage 
very nearly to the color of the spores, but there are many exceptions. m 
times specimens will be found to have dropped their spores on subjacent sbjeitl 
in such quantity that their ata can be readily ascertained at the time of col- 
lecting. Microscopic examination may approximately reveal it, but in some 
respects the old method of receiving the spores on paper, as they drop from the 
lamelle, is the most accurate and most satisfactory method of ascertaining 
their color. It is then presented to the naked eye in a manner in which it may 
be preserved for future use. Rather stiff white paper should be cut in slips a 
little wider than the diameter of the pileus whose spores are to be caught. The 
length should be a little more than twice their breadth. Make a transverse fold 
about half an inch broad across one ome Heleok a fresh, well- tthe Lane 
and cut the pileus from thestem. Pl 
downwards on the paper between the folded margin and the middle of 3 are 
is leaves the other half of the paper free, and after the 
spores have been dropped it is to be doubled over and 
Aits free end thrust under the transverse fold already 
mad then covers and protects the spores. This 
covering fold should be a little longer than the part 
holding the spores beneath it, that it may form a low 
arch over them and not press upon or disturb them. 
(See annexed diagrams.) If the spores prove to be 
white, or it is suspected at first that they are white, 
black paper may be used, as white spores will be more 
conspicuous on it. Generally in a few hours or 4 
single night a stratum of spores thick enough to show 
- the color satisfactorily will be obtained. If the pileus 
is very small or thin a goblet or other suitable vessel 
may be inverted over it, that the moisture may be re- 
{ tained and the pileus not shrivel before it has dropped 
its spores. The paper bearing the spores should be 
properly labeled and kept in a tin box with a close- 
fitting cover. It should contain asmall open bottle of 
chloroform, otherwise insects will be likely to find and 
Paper with spores on it, devour the spores. 
Sia at ee ooh OF ee After the specimens have been dried they may be 
. b, Dotted li by placing them i : win- 
per; b, Dotied it alae dampened by placing them in front of an open 
© 
bemade. ¢, 8 dow during a rainy day or dewy night, or kept for 4 
the spores fal side time beneath several layers of damp paper. Water 
— * should not be sprinkled upon them, but very thick, 
