January 10, 1889. ] 
TO OUR READERS. 
Another half-yearly Volume of the Journal of Horticulture is completed, and its contents, to which the 
accompanying Index refers, we are induced to believe have not been less acceptable to our readers than those 
■of previous issues embracing the same length of time. 
Eighty-one of these Volumes are now completed, and we are glad to have made a favourable 
■commencement with the eighty-second. The series, we think, contains a record of the true position of 
horticulture throughout the period of upwards of forty years; and, sound as much of the practice of the old 
master cultivators was, and agreeable as is this description of it, a great advance is noticeable as we approach 
the present time. 
In variety of subjects treated, in the manner in which discussions are conducted, in the literary ability 
■displayed by the greater number of writers, in the number and execution of the engravings, progress is 
apparent. This is gladdening to us, and encouraging. 
The grand old gardeners of past days we can never forget, and some of their work in the garden, and, 
as registered in the pages in which it was presented to the world, has not been excelled; but they were few 
in comparison with their successors, who strive in a manner most creditable to themselves, and usefully to 
•others, to disseminate information on the important and delightful occupation of gardening. 
It is due to them that we should state that their work is appreciated by far more readers, extending 
over a much wider field, than they can be cognizant of. From gardeners old and young, from experienced 
amateurs and earnest probationers, we have letters conveying good wishes to all who share in the work which 
gives to them satisfaction, that helps them in their difficulties, aids in their successes, and contributes to the 
pleasure of their lives. From every part of the kingdom such testimony comes—from the continents of Europe 
and America, and from far distant Australian colonies. It is no expression of vanity when we say such 
testimony is pleasant to us; and it is mentioned to enable us the better to express our obligations to all our 
■co-helpers who have effectively shared in maintaining so well he acceptability of the Journal, and placing 
it in the satisfactory position it occupies in the horticultural world. 
We rejoice in the retention of old friends and the acquisition of new, to all of whom we tender our 
best wishes, and look forward with confidence to the interest and usefulness of the “old Journal” being fully 
sustained. 
