The present Work aims at giving a plain and intelligible account of European Ferns. In the 
introductory portion I have had the assistance o'f my former colleague, Dr. Trimen (now of the 
Royal Botanic Gardens, Ceylon), and for the portion relating to the geological aspect of the 
subject, I have to thank W. Carruthers, Esq., F.R.S., of the British Museum. 
JAMES BRITTEN. 
