PREFACE. 



The object of this text-book is as far as possible to cover the 

 subject of Elementary Botany as provided in the syllabus of 

 the elementary stage issued by the Science and Art Depart- 

 ment, and at the same time to avoid being a mere cram work, 

 but to give a general idea of the fundamental facts and prin- 

 ciples of the science. 



In many elementary works the greater part of the book is 

 taken up with mere structural details, the Physiology of the 

 Plants being relegated to a short chapter at the end. I have 

 endeavoured, whilst tracing up the growth and development 

 of the plant from the seed, to treat of the functions of each 

 organ at the same time as its description. 



Through the liberality of the publishers the book is well 

 supplied with diagrams. It will not do, however, for the 

 student to trust to these alone. No science can be properly 

 studied from mere book-work, and this is especially true of 

 such a science as Botany, which deals with various forms of 

 natural objects. The student is strongly urged from the first 

 to carefully examine specimens. A sharp penknife and a 

 simple lens, which will only cost a few shillings, are all the 

 apparatus required for dissecting and examining most flowers, 

 and the commonest plants around us will well serve the 

 student's purpose. 



For some parts of the subject — as, for instance, the 

 examination of Cellular Tissues— a microscope is needful. An 

 excellent instrument can be obtained at any of the well-known 

 makers' for about five or six pounds. 



The student should also especially accustom himself to 

 writing out descriptions of plants according to the model 

 given at the close of the book. 



H. EDMONDS. 



Brighton : May 1882, 



