vi 
PREFACE. 
concise Si/noj>m of the Genera according to the Linnean 
method is given, by means of which all the convenience 
supposed to be possessed by books arranged on that system 
is afforded to the reader. 
Full characters of the Natural Orders are io be found in 
most of the best ' Introductions to Botany,' and it has, 
therefore, not been considered advisable to give them in 
detail in the present volume. In his definitions, the Author 
has endeavoured to point out the characteristic marks, more 
especially as far as British plants are concerned. 
In using this book, the student will find it convenient to 
pay attention to the Italicised parts of the generic and spe- 
cific characters. If they are found to agree with the plant 
under examination, then to compare it with the other parts 
of those characters, and also with those of allied genera 
and species. 
It is most desirable that the students of our native Flora 
should not confine their attention to books published in this 
country. Owing to such a restriction we fell far behind 
our continental brethren during the earlier part of the pre- 
sent century. A few modern works may be named which 
^vill assist them in their studies. Koch's Synopsis Florcp 
Oermanicce, ed. 2, and Grenier and Godron's Flore de 
France are strongly recommended ; also, although in a 
rather less degree, Lloyd's Flore de V Quest de la France, 
Brebisson's Flore de la Normandie, and Cosson and Ger- 
main's Flore des environs de Paris, ed. 2. Boreau's Flore 
du Centre de la France, ed. 3, and the scattered papers of 
M. Alexis Jordan of Lyons are valuable for the study of 
varieties ; for many of their species can claim no higher 
rank. But, above all, the works of Fries deserve careful 
study ; especially his NoviticB Florce Suecicce, with its three 
Mantissce, and Summa Vegetahiliiim Scandinavia. It is 
necessary to warn students against the very common error 
