THE 
OPEN BOOK OF NATURE 
CHAPTER I 
INTRODUCTORY 
AutHougeH, I dare say, there will be much in this 
book that will prove interesting to quite grown-up 
folk, I am writing it specially for the young, whom 
I shall address in the second person. I believe all 
young people have some love for Nature, and some 
interest in fossils, birds, beasts, and flowers ; indeed, 
I am often much indebted to boys and girls for valu- 
able information. If I find myself in a new district, 
and want to know the best hunting-grounds, say, for 
sticklebacks, newts, or tadpoles, I am fairly sure of 
getting the information I need from the first group 
of lads I meet ; and if I am in search of primroses, 
violets, ferns, or toadstools, I shall certainly meet 
some girls or boys who can tell me where to look for 
them. Now, I hope the love of Nature which young 
people display will never be lost or even over- 
shadowed by other loves and interests. I am writing 
in the hope of increasing your interest in Nature’s 
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