Vm PREFACE. 



name, of the one who first distinctly describes it is given. Following 

 the standard name, is the identification or list of works in which 

 the variety is identified as being described; the synonymes or 

 names by which it is mentioned in all works on pomology, or known 

 in various districts ; and then a list of works in which it is most 

 correctly and faithfully figured. Then follow the description, 

 history, and critical observations, when such are necessary. I have 

 furnished diagrams, of the newest, rarest, and most esteemed 

 varieties ;■ and this mode of illustration conveys a better idea of the 

 general character of the fruit, than a fore-shortened drawing, and 

 answers the same purpose as a highly finished engraving, without 

 sweUing the price of the work to such an extent, as to render it un- 

 available for ordinary use. At the end, I have given lists of the 

 most excellent varieties adapted for various districts of the country, 

 as also such as are suited for being grown as Standards, Dwarfs, 

 and for Cyder. The whole work is terminated by a copious index, 

 which includes all the synonymes, and which of itself, will afford 

 much valuable assistance, in all matters relating to pomological 

 nomenclature. 



It now remains for me to acknowledge the favors I have received 

 from many kind friends, who have, by furnishing materials and in- 

 formation, rendered me much valuable assistance. To Mr. Eobert 

 Thompson, already mentioned, I am particularly indebted for the 

 liberal way in which he has always supplied me with any informa- 

 tion I required. To the late Mr. John Konalds, "of Brentford, for 

 the free use of his valuable collection; as also to his excellent and 

 much respected foreman, Mr. William Waring. To Mr. James Lake, 

 nurseryman, of Bridgewater, for specimens of, and communications 

 respecting the fruits of the Somerset, Devon, and West of England 

 orchards. To Mr. William Fairbread, of Green-street, near Sitting- 

 bourne, for those of the great orchard districts of Kent. To 

 Mr. Mannington, of Uckfield, and Mr. Henry Barton, of Heathfield, 

 Sussex, for the fruits of these neighbourhoods. To Mr. J. C. 

 Wheeler, of Gloucester, and the late Mr. Hignell, orchardist, of 

 Tewkesbury. To George Jefferies, Esq., of Marlborough Terrace, 

 Kensington, for some of the valuable fruits of Norfolk ; and to the 



