“The proof of the Fungus is in the eating.” I have constantly eaten every species figured on the “Edible Sheet,” and many others that are not. Few, I imagine, will expect me to have eaten every species on the “Poisonous Sheet,” bearing, as they do, such adjective names as “gloomy,” “fiery,” “satanical,” “inflaming,” &c.

However, years ago, without a proper guide and with very little experience, I more than once became personally acquainted with the unpleasant qualities of one or two dangerous species, the particulars of which will be found in the proper place.

If the following brief descriptions are used in connection with the two sheets of drawings, which I have copied from nature and transferred to the stones myself (or in reference to the large drawings in the Bethnal Green Museum), no one who is capable of distinguishing one thing from another need fear making a mistake.

I shall be glad to give information regarding any species forwarded to me carriage paid.

W. G. SMITH.

15, Mildmay Grove, London, N.