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THE EFFECTS OF CROSS AND SELF-FERTILIZATION IN THE VEGETABLE KINGDOM. By Chas. Darwin. Published by D. Appleton & Co. For sale by Keil & Bro.

Cross fertilization, how brought about and its effects are the points considered. Darwin has labored industriously in the field of natural science, and the scientific world is largely indebted to him for valuable contributions to that department. That the conclusions reached by him will in every respect stand the test of close criticisms may not be expected. But there is one thing that cannot be denied, and that is, that numerous facts have been brought to light through the indefatigable labors of this man, which are of value and will be used by the scientific world. In this volume will be found the result of the labors of this naturalist, in his attentive studies of the subject of self and cross fertilization of flowers. The plans pursued are carefully explained, and the result exhibited in well prepared tables. The experiments made embrace a large class of flowering plants, and the conclusion arrived at is that cross fertilization is generally beneficial, and self fertilization injurious. This is shown by the difference in the hight [sic] between the self and cross fertilized plants of the same family; also in the difference in weight and fertility in the seed bearing quality of the same kind of plants. Darwin shows his claims to the title of a scientific man in the liberality of his views and the freedom from dictation so often indulged in by men who claim prominence as scientific men. The author presents his views and conclusions as becomes a man of learning in a modest way, having due respect for the opinions of others, especially those who entertain views fundamentally different from his own. Darwin has been a close observer of nature, and the facts presented carry with them respect, as being what is represented for them. The conclusions drawn from the same may not strictly follow, however.