92 
ILLUSTRATIONS OF BRITISH FUNGI. 
The third and fourth volumes of this work are now completed 
with the 39th part, reaching 622 coloured plates of species belong- 
ing to the genus Agaricus. This will undoubtedly be the most 
complete illustrated work on the gill-bearing Hymenomycetes ever 
attempted, and with the fortieth part another two volumes, which it 
is hoped may conclude the present series, will be commenced. The 
genera still remaining to be illustrated are Coprinus , Bolbitius , Cor- 
tinarius , Gomphidius , Paxillus , Hygrophorus, Lactarius , Russula , 
Cantharellus, Nyctalis , Marasmius, Lentinus, Panus, Xerotus , Tro~ 
gia, Schizophyllum, and Lenzites. There must be some hesitation 
in affirming that such a number of genera can be compressed into 
two volumes, since calculation in advance is scarcely possible, but 
should it extend to three volumes, subscribers will surely prefer 
that alternative to bringing the work to a premature and imperfect 
conclusion. The Polyporei and Hydnei and other orders of the 
Hymenomycetes , might form the subjects of a second series, but on 
that point nothing can be determined until the present series is 
complete, which will probably occupy three years. The publication 
of the descriptions of species figured in the 3rd and 4th volumes 
is resumed at the end of the current number of this journal, and 
will be continued without intermission. 
Irish Fungi. — We have received a “preliminary report on the 
Fungi of Glengariff and Killarney,” by Greenwood Pim, M.A., 
F.L.S., and although very scanty, a good commencement, which 
we hope may lead to a more complete list. The Sphasropsideas are 
represented by a single species, and the Hyphomycetes by two, 
hence it is very clear that a great deal still remains to be 
done. 
British Desmids. — A circular has been issued with a proposal 
to commence a companion volume to Cooke’s “ Fresh Water Algas,” 
containing coloured figures and descriptions of the Desmids of 
Great Britain, as soon as sufficient subscribers can be obtained to 
warrant the venture. It is calculated to occupy about ten parts, 
each with eight plates, at five shillings per part, and may be con- 
cluded in about a year. The names of subscribers are being sent in 
very slowly, and unless the limit of 200 subscribers is obtained, the 
project will be abandoned. Numerous letters from all parts having 
been received urging the publication of such a work, the editor has 
resolved upon putting the question to a practical test whether the 
issue of such a volume would ensure sufficient support to secure 
him from pecuniary loss. All who are willing to assist should send 
their names immediately to the Editor, 146, Junction Road, 
London, N. 
