1885.] 
Analyses of Books. 
1 77 
The Fern Portfolio. By F. G. Heath. 
Promoting Christian Knowledge. 
London : Society lor 
This is, we believe, a publication unique in its kind. All the 
species of British Ferns are here not merely described, but faith- 
fully depicted in coloured plates, 16 by 12 inches in size. An 
entire frond in life-size is given in every case but two, the Royal 
Osmond and the Bracken, which are too large. These plates 
are exquisitely accurate, and therefore, to the loving eye of the 
natuialist, peifectly beautiful. The venation, even of the smallest 
parts, is caiefully reproduced. The highest praise is due to the 
author for the enthusiasm, the devotion, and the patience which 
have been expended on his task, and we are glad to have the 
opportunity of congratulating him on the success which he has 
achieved. 
