168 SPECIMEN OF A FLORA OF CANADA. 
differences which claim attention, and they cannot be expressed with- 
out a correct phraseology with which the use of the old term pistil is 
entirely inconsistent—nor do I believe that the use of terms correctly 
expressing our meaning can create difficulty to any one having even 
a slight acquaintance with vegetable organography. 
It appears to me that accuracy in these matters is of real importance 
and that we cannot expect right notions to be formed in the minds of 
learners, whilst we cling to a terminology founded upon mistakes, now 
generally abandoned. 
In order to make the study of our native plants a source of as 
much information as possible, I have in all important cases said some- 
thing of the extent, properties and distribution of the order; I have 
given the number of known species im the genus from the best accessi- 
ble authority, and I have stated respecting each species in what other 
parts of the world it is known to be found. As far as I could satisfy 
myself upon the subject I have distinguished between our genuine 
natives and introduced plants, and I have added notices of a few cul- 
tivated species, distinguishing them by a different type. I have formed 
my list of native plants from my own observations during six years, 
aided by several published catalogues, by the kind communications of 
several friends, and by such published authorities as I could consult, 
but I have thought it best to place in my list species known to be 
found in the Northern United States, and which might probably be 
expected in Canada, though I do not know of their having been found 
here. . 
The omission of any station or authority will sufficiently distinguish 
these doubtful natives to which I have also attached a note of interro_ 
gation. 
I now lay before the Canadian Institute a specimen sufficient to 
illustrate my plan, including as many of the tables as are required to 
show their nature and use, and one small section of the work in its 
complete state. Ihave spoken of adopting the system of Lindley 
referring to my preference of it for practical use to that of De Can- 
dolle, but I must not seem to make that distinguished Botanist 
responsible for some changes which have seemed to me desirable, and 
which I can only submit to the candid judgment of those who study 
the subject. e 
(To be continued.) 
