Page:An introduction to physiological and systematical botany (1st edition).djvu/14

elementary on subjects so extensive; but if it be clear and intelligible as far as it goes, serving to indicate the scope of the science of botany, and how any of its branches may be cultivated further, my purpose is answered. The subject has naturally led me to a particular criticism of the Linnæan system of arrangement, which the public, it seems, has expected from me. Without wasting any words on those speculative and fanciful changes, which the most ignorant may easily make, in an artificial system; and without entering into controversy with the very few competent writers who have proposed any alterations; I have simply stated the result of my own practical observations, wishing by the light of experience to correct and to confirm what has been found useful, rather than rashly to overthrow what perhaps cannot on the whole be improved.