PREFACE 



TO THE FIRST EDITION. Mat 31bt, 18S8. 



With the view of rendering the present work useful to those 

 unacquainted with the science of botany, the author has 

 throughout aimed at the utmost simplicity in language and 

 an-angement. The alphabetical mode has therefore been adopted 

 in reference both to the Genera and Species by means of which 

 any Conifer, of which the name is knownj may be immediately 

 found. And for the use of those who possess some botanical 

 knowledge, a diagnostic table is prefixed. 



The descriptions of the Genera are comprehensive though 

 concise ; and each species is accompanied by all its synonyms, 

 with the authorities for them. Care has also been taken to 

 furnish such information respecting habits, value, products, &c., 

 as is likely to be required by the planter or cultivator. 



TJie Volume is completed by an Index containing nearly 

 1700 names. 



In conclusion, the author begs to acknowledge with thanks 

 the valuable assistance afibrded by his foreign correspondents, 

 particularly those in Germany, France, and Mexico. He desires 

 also to express his obligations to Mr. R, Pince, of the Great 

 Exeter Nursery, and Mr. H. Low, of the Clapton Nursery. 



PREFACE TO THE SUPPLEMENTARY VOLUME 

 PUBLISHED FEB. 13th, 1862. 



In producing a Supplement to the Pinetum at the present tune 

 it is only necessary to refer to the frequent introduction of new 

 Conifers, or what are said to be new ones, together with the 

 mutability of names, and the Babylonian confusion which still 



