6 PREFACE. 



tions by the author. On many points of theory, as 

 well as with regard to some facts, there are differences 

 of opinion among authors. "Where our own opinion 

 was decided, we have stated it without reference to 

 that of others ; in other cases of difference, we have 

 noticed the contrariety. 



We have labored many years to bring the work as 

 near perfection as possible. That it is perfect, the au- 

 thor has not the vanity to believe. To write a perfect 

 work on Southern Botany is impossible ; nor will it be 

 possible probably for a century to come. 



In a work the author published in 1842, all was ar- 

 ranged on the Natural System. Many teachers ob- 

 jected to it on that account. To accommodate all, we 

 have placed three analyses at the beginning of the 2d 

 part, that each may adopt which he chooses. They will 

 be mutual aids to each other. Difficulties that might 

 occur in a given plant in one, may be entirely obviated 

 in another. We have had an eye to this in their con- 

 struction. We have also analyzed the more important 

 orders. It may be safely asserted that no work will 

 afford so easy a means for the analysis of plants as the 

 one now presented to the public. We have aimed at 

 presenting to the Colleges and High Schools of the 

 Southern States a text-book, that shall answer all the 

 ends of such a work, in the hands of intelligent and 

 skillful teachers. To them we commend it in all con- 

 fidence, believing that it will meet with such reception 

 as it may merit. We ask for it no other. 



Auburn, Ala., 1855. 



