98 BOTANICAL GAZETTE [ AUGUST 
size of the nucleus, the assumption of the spirem condition, and 
the first division of the chloroplast; second, sudden synapsis at 
the time when there are two chloroplasts in the cell, and often 
continuing until after the second division of these structures; 
third, gradual emergence of the nucleus from synapsis. These 
changes present the spore-mother-cell ready for nuclear division 
with the following arrangement of the cell contents. The fou 
chloroplasts are distributed symmetrically, with the nucleus it 
the center of the cell. In this condition the cell remains fora 
period somewhat longer than that of the synapsis, and then pre 
pares for the first division of the nucleus. 
It is difficult to recognize the earliest indications that the 
nucleus is approaching prophase of division. A somewhat later 
stage is very conspicuous, when the outline of the nucleus 
becomes angular and a mat of delicate threads surrounds the 
structure (fig. 72). There is a period, however, previous to this 
condition, when the nuclear membrane appears much less firm 
and somewhat irregular in outline. This structure follows the 
Spirem stage such as is shown in fig. To, and_ precedes the 
unmistakable prophase conditions illustrated by figs. 12, 13: - 
appearance is given in fig. zz, and the following peculiamti® 
should be noted, viz., an irregularly outlined nuclear membfaté 
a faint linin network, and fragmentary nucleolus. But perhaps 
the most important characteristics appear outside of the nucleat 
membrane in the cytoplasm as a delicate web of fibrils closely 
applied to the nucleus. These fibers are so delicate as almost” 
defy the reproduction that has been attempted in fig. If. They 
presage the development of the spindle. ; 
In the prophases the nucleus may exhibit some extreme 
varied appearances. The form is very irregular, takin | | 
curious wavy angles. Outside of the nucleus there is 21" | 
of protoplasm manifestly very different in structure from 
neighboring cytoplasm» In overstained preparations this regime 
Ss very conspicuous, forming a sort of zone around the nucle 
but the details of its structure can only be made 0 
| lla 
favorable preparations. Then it is seen to possess 4 fibeilif 
ut in vel - 
