HISTORY OF INTRODUCTION OF EXOTIC FERNS. 4-3 
in a botanical point of view. To a certain extent, 
tbe F ern collection at Kew is a proof of tins ; it so 
happens that both Sir W. J. Hooker and myself bad 
an early predilection for Ferns, which has led to 
the gradual increase of the fine collection at Hew; 
and, although I am now* incapacitated, by failing 
sight, from doing more in support of this collection, 
still, happily, it remains under the direction of Sir 
W. J. Hooker, who, doubtless, will not allow it to 
deteriorate, either in number of species or other- 
wise. One great means towards assisting in their 
preservation is continuing to view them as a scienti- 
fic collection. Scientifically-arranged collections are 
presumed to be the leading features of all Botanic 
Gardens. Unfortunately it is not the most showy or 
attractive. My long experience has shown me that as 
soon as a scientific arrangement in any family of 
plants is lost sight of, and showy cultivation made 
the first consideration, a rapid loss of species is the 
sure consequence. For their proper maintenance it 
is most essential that the cultivator should view 
even the most humble species with a scientific 
and conservative eye. It is also much to be desired 
that an official rule should be made, requiring an in- 
ventory of the collections to be taken every few years, 
and the publication of a general catalogue ; or, in 
order to meet the various tastes of the public, separate 
catalogues of special families, like the one I now 
publish of the Ferns, might be issued. 
* Slay, 1864. 
