p.2

2

The cells have the power of forming new layers on the inside of their inclosing membrane, and these layers are repeated so as often to entirely fill the cavity.

Cells have also the power of forming smaller cells within them which increase in size and finally occupy the place of the mother cell; and [in] this constitutes the element of vegetable growth. The number of new cells thus formed in a minute of time in a rapidly growing plant is truly wonderful.*

The outer coating of plants is impervious to air and water, except at little points called stomata or breathing pores. They are protected by two crescent shaped processes that have the power of enlarging or contracting the minute orifice so as to admit or exclude a greater or less quantity of air & moisture according to the requirements of the plant.

The matter thus formed in the interior of the cells is of various kinds, [and] some of them of the greatest importance to man. Some are only ornamental- giving beauty to the flower, greenness to the leaf &c
Some contain crystals (2 any crystals in Graminea?) Some cell contents soluble in water, [some not] as albumen, gum, sugar-acids &c, some not as Graubs of starch nearly fill the cells.

[sketch of cells-Section of wheat or rye]

a- compound cells-true [illegible]
b-cells with gluten-
c-cells nearly filled with starch grains

Starch constitutes the chief veg. food of man. Exists in minute grains 20 or 30 in a cell-each granule has a nucleus surrounded by concentric lines.

(A1) See p. 5