BEITTEN: FLORA OF HIGH WYCOMBE. 



139 



of England, but which, is, I believe, comparatively rare, presents some marked 

 distinctions from our common domestic animals. It is considerably larger, 

 being generally about three feet long, more stoutly built and bulky in the 

 body than is usual with that animal. The general colour of the body is grey, 

 with darker stripes which become obscure on the sides ; the belly is white, 

 and the inside of the legs is yellowish grey. The tail is decidedly thicker than 

 is usual. 



It wiU be at once perceived that this description tallies in a great degree 

 with that given of Fells catus, from which source I have not the slightest 

 doubt it is derived. 



Thus, I think the two theories with regard to the origin of our domestic 

 cat may in a measure be reconciled, by supposing that the common varieties 

 have sprung from domesticated individuals of the Felis maniculata imported 

 into Italy by the Egyptians, thence into Britain by the Eomans, and that 

 the large grey variety has originated from individuals of Felis catus which 

 have been tamed at a subsequent period by the inhabitants of this island. 

 Bristol, December 1866. 



A FLORA OF HIGH WYCOMBE. 



By James Britten. 

 (Continued from page 126) 

 CLASS II. MO^fOCOTYLEDONES. 



Division L Dictyogen^, 



Order LXXIX. — Trilliace^. 

 Paris. Linn. 



P. quadrifolia, L. Herb Paris. Bab. 312. Woods, not very common : 

 Dane Garden Wood ; between Toweridge and Bullock's Lane, abun- 

 dant; Bradenham Woods. 



KoTE. — I observe that the young plants have usually but three leaves ; full-grown 

 specimens from four to seven. 



Order LXXX.— DIOSCOREACE^. 



Tamus. Linn. Black Bryony. 



T. communis, L. Bab, 313. Woods and hedges. 



