P R EFAC E . 
In preparing this work for the use of Amateurs I have had in 
view the want of some means of identifying the Ferns without so 
much letter-press description, which is so confusing to Amateurs, and 
/ 
frS&T 
therefore I have arranged it in the simplest and cheapest form so as to 
he within the reach of all classss. 
It is well known that an illustration of any object is far more 
perferable to letter-press description, and I sincerely hope this work will 
be of service to all who peruse it. 
I have named the ferns in accordance with a work published by 
Sir W. Hooker, and think it advisable to follow that work as near as 
possible throughout. 
CHARLES SHAW. 
‘‘The Fernery,” 
Finchfield, near Wolverhapton. 
