PREFACE. To the first historical account of fruits, which has been attempted in the English language, it may be expected that a Preface should be given. The Author would rather that his should be considered an apology for having undertaken so arduous a task, at a time when his utmost exertions were, from necessity, directed towards other objects. He is now induced to offer it to the world, not relying on his own ability so much as on the indulgence of the Public, to a work that has been finished under the most distressing family affliction. It will be observed, that the work has been compiled more for general readers than for botanists or practical gardeners. The former, as well as the latter, will find abundance of books worthy their attention, but which afford the greater part of society but little information, particularly those who have not enjoyed the advantage of a classical education, as Botany is not yet divested of it's Latin garments, although there is no reason why it should continue to be shackled in a dead language, when our own is so copious and so rapidly becoming the dialect of one half of the world. The ancients wrote their botanical and medicinal works in the language of their respective countries, whilst the writings of the moderns on these subjects are so disguised in ancient language, that few but professors thoroughly understand them, thus depriving those whom they intended to enlighten from obtaining information. For many centuries, the profession of the law was worded in a foreign tongue, and the prayers of the church were offered to the Almighty in a language little understood except by the clergy. These inconveniences have been remedied, and the Author hopes to see Medicine and Botany also dispossessed of their foreign |