64 BOTANICAL GAZETTE [JANUARY j 
who have had no contact with botany this is better than an exclusive use ol 
the compound microscope, but in so far as it suppresses an examination of 
the lower groups it is incomplete from its own standpoint. The endless lists 
of names, serviceable only in taxonomy, are not of great educative value: — 
but for those bent upon “analyzing” flowering plants they are a necessary — 
antecedent. We have regarded this phase of botany, so far as elementary 
students are concerned, as holding the same relation to the science of botany 
as does the collecting of postage stamps to the science of geography. It is 
very interesting, and hence very attractive, but it is hardly botany as we 
understand it today. However, for those who want to do this sort of thing — 
Professor Bailey’s book is a most excellent guide, and it suggests some cap _ 
tal work for secondary schools after the pupils have reached the spermato 
phytes—J. M.C. i 
Practical botany. 
THE extensive use made of Professor Strasburger’s Das botanische Prat ~ 
ticum, both in the original and in translations, and in the complete and 
briefer forms, is evidenced by the numerous editions. It is unusual fot 
laboratory guide to keep so nearly abreast of current knowledge. A third 
edition of Das kleine botanische Practicum is before us.4 
As the title indicates, the book is intended primarily for those who é 
unable to study in the schools under ateacher. It is presumed that 
pupil is acquainted with the more recent text-books of botany, and that 
has sufficient familiarity with plants to enable him to collect material. . 
given in detail, and the form, structure and development of the bacteria 
more fully treated than in the previous editions. 
On the whole there is an improvement in the technique, the lite 
has been brought up to date, and the verv complete index adds mater 
the value of the book, on 
The figures are all from Strasburger’s own drawings, and nearly 
work, even when it deals with well-known subject-matter, rests Ba 
author’s own investigations.—C, iA 
*STRASRURGER Dr, EpDUARD: : 
Dritte umgearbeitete Auflage. 
1897. In paper 47 6, bound M7 7, 
Das kleine botanische Practicum fir Ani 
etc, 
8 vo. pp. 246. 121 cuts. Jena: Gustav F 
