150 BOTANICAL GAZETTE [AUGUST . 
drainage basin), in being subject to extreme fluctuations in quantity and consti- 
i C. ‘ 
tution, and in containing no species peculiar to it—J. M. 
Floral mechanism 
Such is the title of a work whose first part has just appeared.’ In this part 
twelve types of common spring flowers are selected, all of which are readily 
cultivated and may thus be kept under continued observation. In the case of 
each one of these flowers there is a full account of all the details of structure and 
the problems presented. A definite scheme of work is elaborated, so that in due 
order all questions are raised and answered. The work is intended for botanical 
students, teachers of elementary botany, “lovers of flowers,” and candidates for 
examination. 
A single example, selected at random, will illustrate the scheme. Under 
Viola odorata the following topics are presented: history, distribution, nomen- 
clature, description, variations, floral diagram, sectional elevation, developmen 
special mechanism, pollination, cleistogamy, monstrosities, fruit and seed, com- 
parison of allied types, theoretical considerations, and note on Fibonacci 
phyllotaxis systems. All this is illustrated by five plates, three of them colored. 
The large page and handsome type are exceedingly attractive, and the colored 
plates are as fine as we have seen. In short, the whole appearance of the book 
is ornate. But still, we wonder at its purpose. The author explains this as fol- 
ows: “The general idea has been the provision of a methodical framework for 
the inclusion of all facts of observation and experiment, which may serve as a? 
introductory scheme admitting of progressive elaboration and perfection with the 
attainment of new information.” is sounds as if there was a pedagogica 
motive; but if it is for the teaching of botany, the tremendous emphasis laid upo? 
a few “type” flowers is something new or something very old; at least it holds no 
relation to botany as at present developed. If it is a scientific treatise, which the 
author disclaims, it is too simple and diffuse. If it is for ornament, it is a great 
success. If it is to give opportunity for the display of admirable printing and 
three-color work, we have seen nothing better.—J. M. C. 
MINOR NOTICES j 
Kew Index.—The third supplement to this invaluable work has appeere 
including names and synonyms of all genera and species from the beginning 4 
gor to the end of 1905. The second supplement, which appeared in 194 re 
included names through 1900, was under the direction of W. T. ELTO: 
5’ CHURCH, ARTHUR Harry, Types of floral mechanism; a selection 
and descriptions of common flowers, arranged as an introduction to the syst 
study of angiosperms. I. Types I-XII (Jan. to April). Royal 4to. pp- ¥? 
with 39 colored plates and numerous figs. Oxford: Clarendon Press. 1908. $6. 
Supplementum tertium. PP: itl 
6 Index K is pl 
Oxford: Clarendon Press. 1907. 28s. 
