Having formed the resolution of writing a Natural History of 

 the Eastern Borders, I had first to make an accurate, and, as far 

 as was possible, a complete catalogue of their organic produc- 

 tions ; and to determine the limits of the distribution of them, 

 and their comparative abundance. I endeavoured then to 

 ascertain by what names these creations were commonly known, 

 for it seemed certain that such names must have been derived 

 from some obvious character, or remarkable property, in the 

 objects they designated ; and, being framed in consonance with 

 the early language spoken in the district, they might thus throw 

 a faint light on the characteristics and descents of the people. 

 Then I made inquiry as to those properties, which were soon 

 discovered to be either mystical and superstitious, or real and 

 potential. The former have become of none avail, — and are now 

 the light materials of a small chapter in history, or the property 



