PREFACE TO THE ILLUSTRATED (FOURTH) EDITION. 
Appropriately, therefore, at this joyous season 
may this 4 Plea for the culture of Ferns ’ be 
launched in its new dress. 
‘ We pass out from the city’s feverish hum, 
To find refreshment in the silent woods ; 
And Nature, that is beautiful and dumb, 
Like a cool sleep upon the pulses broods.’ 
But may we not woo Nature to our homes ? 
Cannot we surround ourselves with some of the 
most graceful and beautiful of her children P At 
least the attempt is worth a trial ; for if it 
succeeds, it will make us healthier and happier. 
London , May , 1878. 
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