SPECIFIC DIRECTIONS 
In the preceding chapters the principles and methods of technic 
have been described in a general way. It is difficult, especially for 
a beginner, to apply general principles to specific cases, and, besides, 
the types which he might select for the preparations might not form 
a symmetrical collection. Consequently, a series of forms has been 
selected which will not merely serve for practice in microscopical 
technic, but will also furnish the student with preparations for a 
fairly satisfactory study of plant structures from the algae up to the 
angiosperms. It is not at all our purpose to discuss general morphol¬ 
ogy, but rather to answer, by means of sketches and specific directions, 
the multitudinous questions which confront the instructor in the 
laboratory. For those who have had a thorough training in general 
morphology the following suggestions will be in some degree super¬ 
fluous. Those who are beginning the study of minute plant structure 
are referred to the standard textbooks for descriptions of the plants 
mentioned here. 
The directions for collecting and growing laboratory material 
constitute an important feature of this part of the book. 
With a few exceptions, the order in which the forms are pre¬ 
sented is that given in Engler’s Syllabus der Pflanzenfamilien. 
163 
