VI 
PREFACE. 
in their power to societies of either kind already formed, or 
by the formation of others in every promising locality. 
It must, however, be remembered that to render the 
associations thoroughly effective, publicity should be given 
to their proceedings, for which ample opportunities are 
now offered on all sides. The Horticultural Press is the 
engine by which gardening has been rescued from the 
darkness of empiricism, and elevated to become a science; 
and without its invigorating aid would inevitably return to 
the former condition. It becomes therefore of equal con¬ 
sequence to encourage simultaneously meetings for the 
promotion of the profession, and the means by which their 
usefulness is made known. For the very flattering propor¬ 
tion of this encouragement we have experienced, we are 
grateful; and conclude this address by cordially thanking 
those correspondents whose contributions grace our pages, 
and our subscribers generally, for their past favours, 
trusting to merit and receive a continuance through the 
future. 
