28 
One of the largest collections was made in a single day, and 
in the rain, on the lava beds between Mexico City and Cuerna- 
vaca. This was the favorite collecting ground of Mr. Pringle, 
and I was very desirous of getting pictures to illustrate its flora. 
Although nearly five dozen negatives were exposed, not more 
than a dozen pictures turned out well, owing to the rain and 
very cloudy condition. The most interesting feature of this 
place are the wonderful variety and abundance of ferns, the 
great abundance and variety of dahlias and the scarlet Scrophu- 
lariaceae. Some sears interesting large Umbelliferae and Arali- 
aceae were observed. 
y far the most interesting flora seen was that of the high 
mountains and deep valleys in the vicinity of Cuicatlan, Almo- 
loyas and Dominguillo in the state of Oaxaca, where several days 
were spent and large collections made. The flora here is so very 
varied that it is difficult to name specially interesting groups, 
with the exception of the Cactaceae. The plains and lower hills 
are covered with a perfect forest of huge cactuses, of which living 
specimens were sent home. Museum specimens of the edible 
fruits of these cactuses were also obtained. Altogether, nearly 
if not quite a hundred species were here collected. The flora of 
this section is one of the most interesting that I have ever en- 
countered and is very rich indeed and I cherish the hope of some- 
time being able to collect extensively there. 
A large number of photographs, representing interesting 
sees floral features and economic material were obtained. 
Thes mber more than one hundre Many lantern slides 
have eee made from them and others will be available for the 
same purpose 
An account of many of the useful plants observed was presented 
at the Garden lecture of Saturday, November 12, and a synopsis 
published in the JouRNAL for January. 
Respectfully submitted, 
s 
. H. Russy, 
Curator of the Economic Collections. 
