p.12

12

These divisions and subdivisions are obviously necessary where we have such [vast] numbers of different species to deal with. Utter confusion would reign were we to discard all system in the study of plants.

By the beautiful system now followed we are able to refer directly to any individual species by first ascertaining to what class, order, & genus it belongs, a process of analyses at once simple and beautiful. [Plants]

By averaging plants in a herbarium according to this system [are] we have those nearest allied together in the same port-folio, and can readily study their characteristic differences as well as resemblances.-

Besides we here have the advantage of acquiring at the same time much accurate knowledge in regard to the structure and general character of plants. One must have a considerable knowledge of the nature of plants to enable him to trace out a species and find its proper place in the system.

This natural method as it has been called has not been invented, like the older and more artificial systems, but has been discovered and has been gradually built up as full and exact knowledge of plants was gradually acquired.

"He that makes two blades of grass grow where but one grew before is a benefactor of his country" Who said this?