To the Reader 
WE ask your indulgence for again calling attention 
to the essential incompleteness of the material 
contained in the foT'egoing pages. Our book is 
in no way intended as a technical work of reference. It 
has been compiled along such radically new and different 
ideas of classification and presentation horn those 
followed in the usual Plant Catalog, that — thus being 
what we believe to be the first of its kind, and having 
been created upon no pattern or guiding precedent other 
than our own ideas and ideals of what would be most 
genuinely helpful — it is only a natural consequence 
if the result as here presented falls short of that perfec- 
tion of completeness which we hope to develop from year 
to year in future editions. If it simply serves to carry a 
practical suggestion or two for the further beautification 
and comfortizing of your home and its surroundings, 
and at the same time facilitates the putting of such 
suggested improvements into effect, its mission will 
have been fulfilled. Should you at any time, however, 
desire more detailed information on any of the subjects 
touched upon here, please let us know. Many a person 
neglects setting out necessary shrubs and trees because 
selection and planting seem a difficult task. Let us help 
you over any such possible uncertainties and delays. 
We are always, and gladly, at the service of the home- 
beautifier who wishes to ol)tain the most thoroughly 
suitable plants for each specific need, together with the 
very best results from every expenditure made. 
FrdwiYvingKeaxs. ^virs'erie* 
FRAM INGHAM 
MASS. 
