—3i— 



small page to the ruination of what were evidently fine 

 pictures. There is no uniformity in the text, some spe- 

 cific names being italicised and others not and the 

 capitalization is equally bad. Most deplorable of all is 

 the egotism that prompted a list of " Standard Names/' 

 as if gardeners and fern cultivators could be induced to 

 use Matteitccia. Filix, Ptcridium, PhylUtis and others 

 upon the mere statement of a publishing house. Two 

 other lists are given, one according to Gray and the other 

 according to Britton. but throughout the book the ob- 

 jectional names are used. Although these are called 

 " standard " a large number have been repudiated by 

 botanists. In at least two places we are told that the best 

 authorities now agree that the royal fern of America and 

 Europe are not identical ! The eleven chapters in the 

 book treat of how and where ferns can be grown, de- 

 scribe the making of rock-work and wardian cases, directs 

 how and what to plant and where to get specimens, and 

 discusses the cultivation of ferns, both indoors and out. 

 The author's style is clear, direct and practical and the 

 book abounds in hints that only long acquaintance with 

 the growing ferns can develop. It will be welcomed by 

 all growers of these graceful plants. 



THE AMERICAN FERN SOCIETY. 



Formerly Linnccan Fern Chapter. 



Mr. Saunders's long absence in California has made the 

 appointment of a new Treasurer necessary. Miss Xellie 

 Mirick, Oneida, X. Y., has been appointed to that office, 

 and all dues should now be sent to her. 



The folder of information about the Society is ready 

 for the printer, and will soon be distributed to members. 

 It contains such facts as are likely to interest those who 

 contemplate joining the Society, and will no doubt do 

 much to increase our membership. 



At the recent election the following officers were se- 



