192 



The Museum Gazette 



Of Amanita phalloides : " In growth it is enticing in appear- 

 ance, and neither scent nor taste are there against it." In 

 reference to a person who had made his diagnosis by the aid 

 of a published plate : "I probably saved him from death by 

 explaining his mistake," he adds ; " This shows that plates are 

 deceptive if not used in conjunction with a description of 

 structure. I think that inferior illustrations are a snare." 



Of Agaricus bryophilus : "Inexperienced gatherers might 

 mistake it for an Oread. It is not very virulent." 



Of Agaricus excellens (Amanita) : " It must not be mistaken 

 for a Parasol. Much less virulent than other amanites." 



Agaricus pantherinas (Amanita). " This species must not be 

 mistaken for a Blusher. I once ate two specimens before I 

 knew better." Then follows a description of symptoms lasting 

 a week, which had educational value. 



Of Phaliota aurivilla : "It might easily be mistaken for one 

 of the esculent phaliotes." 



Of Psalliota sylvatica : 11 I have eaten it, I believe, in a dish 

 of other Psatelles. It is narcotico-acrid, but evidently not in 

 powerful degree." 



Of Lactarius rufus (the Slayer) : " Incontestably the most 

 dangerous species of the genus, and has been the cause of 

 many fatalities." 



Of Russula rubra (the Destroyer) : "Its principle is irritant, 

 like the others, but also seems to have a stronger influence on 

 the nervous system. One or two specimens have been 

 sufficient to kill." 



Of Russula sardonia (the Malignant) : " It is said to be poison- 

 ous in a high degree ; probably narcotic-acrid. I once found 

 a specimen growing conjoined to a Chantarelle, a curious 

 instance, which shows that care is always needful." 



Of the Boletus group, which includes, let it be noticed, 

 luridus and Satanas above mentioned, Mr. Hay writes : 

 " Since the genus affords a considerable number of capital 



We have retained Mr. Hay's nomenclature. 



