34 THE BRITISH FERNS. 
The production among the Ferns, especially in the genus Gymno- 
gramma, of certain intermediate forms apparently hybrids, is sug- 
gestive that something like hybridisation occurs among the cryp- 
togamous plants, but this is a matter rather of inference than of 
certainty ; for it may be that in these cases, the change of form and 
character which is seen to be produced, is rather the result of the 
development of a sporting bud, than a. product of actual hybridisa- 
tion; while the more frequent occurrence of these intermediate 
forms in certain genera, may result from the tendency to sport being 
more strongly developed in these than in others. 
There is much opportunity for interesting observations in tracing 
the successive stages of the growth of the prothallus, and the 
gradual development therefrom of the young plant—at first a tiny 
green speck, then a thalloid scale, and finally a bud with its attendant 
fronds. Those who have leisure for microscopic research, without 
the patience or skill to undertake the more abstruse physiological 
inquiry involved in the development of these parts, will find it an 
occupation full of interest. Thus, to watch the tiny atoms as they 
spring into active life, and day by day acquire bulk and “strength, 
must lead a thoughtful mind to pure and wholesome reflection; 
inasmuch as it must result in the conviction that life thus inter- 
minably renewable from the dust-like spore, can have but one 
source—that source the Author and Giver of all life. 

