PREFACE. 



in 



some individuals belonging to it ; among whom it will be par- 

 donable to name that distinguished promoter of every thing 

 that is good and useful in the sciences and the arts, Sir Joseph 

 Banks, who though occupied in many different and impor- 

 tant engagements, has never ceased to show this Society the 

 most marked attention, and has greatly contributed to its wel- 

 fare. And a tribute of gratitude is justly due, from the Society, 

 to its excellent President, Thomas Andrew Knight, Esq., 

 whose eminent talents, and profound and extensive know- 

 ledge of vegetable nature, combined with his devotion and 

 attachment to the Society, have proved most singularly bene- 

 ficial to its interests. 



When the objects are considered, which the Society has in 

 view, the encouragement given it will not be deemed to be ill 

 bestowed. Comprehending Horticulture, in its widest extent, 

 yet so as not to interfere with any matters, which more pro- 

 perly belong to Botany, or to Agriculture (in the strict and 

 limited sense), its pursuits must be decidedly useful. It takes 

 under its care all the variety of produce, which the Garden 

 can yield, as food and sustenance to man. Of these produc- 

 tions some are become articles of necessity, while others 

 remain objects of enjoyment. In as much as the Society 

 endeavours to improve and multiply the former, it assists in 

 relieving the wants of the community, and contributes to its 

 comforts ; and in cultivating the latter, it may likewise claim 

 some merit. An association of this kind, which is not merely 

 speculative, but aims at practical advantages, is not an in- 

 efficient member of the State ; nor will it be regarded with 



