[64]

Linn. Trans X p. 28. Brown on Proteaceæ

in this order, in 400 species, the calyx is invariably divided into 4 segments, "with this uncommon constancy of number it is remarkable that there is in the whole order a strong tendency to irregularity in form" serving as important generic characters.

p. 29 the scale-like bodies (probably nectaries) surrounding the ovarium, in their modifications, serve assist in distinguishing the genera. "Their importance, however in this respect, (ie generic character) like that of all other parts, not only in this but as I apprehend in every natural family, is very unequal, & in some cases seems to be entirely lost."

 Thus in Leucadendron these scales are wanting in several species & in some thinks they exist only in the males. —

p. 31 & 32 The external modifications of the ovarium must be cautiously used as generic character in this family, even being sessile or pedunculated is not always of sufficient importance, though I think with Mr Salisbury it serves in Serruria & Spatalla. "its internal structure, which ought always to be ascertained will be found of the greatest importance in most cases, but fails in Persoonia, the species of which differ in having one or two seeds: it would seem however in this case that an irregularity f in a point of such importance could not take place unaccompanied with other anomalies in the same organ, & accordingly such are found to exist in this genus &c"— &c. —