SUGGESTIONS. 187 



which, we tread beneath our feet_, or kick from our 

 path^ because they appear to be only rotten sticks, 

 withered grass_, and decaying leaves. All this may 

 appear as the dream of an enthusiast, or the ravings 

 of one on whom the moon has shone too often. 

 When Columbus spoke of a new world beyond the 

 seas, which he longed to seek and explore, some 

 believed him duped, and others called him mad. 

 We write of no chimerical El Dorado, we speak 

 of no undiscovered world, and yet we seem to 

 a^llude to wonders still unknown, because so few 

 have had the courage to venture upon the journey 

 for themselves. 



In sober earnestness, however, let us commend 

 this pursuit to all who possess a microscope and 

 leisure to use it. It may be for a time the ^^ pur- 

 suit of knowledge under difficulties,^^ on account 

 of the condition of our literature on this special 

 subject; but many workers will produce more 

 readers, and good books will come when there are 

 more to purchase and appreciate. It is not im- 

 probable that in more cases than have come under 

 our own observation, microscopists wearied of 

 diatoms and allied forms, or deeming themselves 

 in possession of all that is novel or interesting in 

 this direction, are seeking for a new field of labour, 

 and a new subject to kindle up a new enthusiasm. 

 To these we have advised, and to any more such 

 we continue to advise, that fungi should have a 

 fair trial. If variety is desired, here they will 



