Pvn H,i I'UitlS

IV INTRODUCTION.
synonymy and defining the range of previously known
species.
And here let me say a few words about the adoption
of names,, whether of genera or species. I would premise
by stating that I am averse to unnecessary inno-
vation. All names which have been generally used,
and which may
therefore be said to be established or
familiar, ought never to be changed, except for the
strongest reasons. To substitute new names for these
would be manifestly inexpedient and lead to much con-
fusion. Even the ground of priority is in most cases no
excuse for altering and unsettling the accepted nomen-
clature; and the attempt to revive old, obscure, and
long-forgotten names cannot be too strongly deprecated.
It is forbidden to disturb the ashes of the dead. But
no task is more difficult to the naturalist, or more open
to criticism, than the selection of names, where more
than one are still used by different authors for the same
genus or species. He has to perform the functions of
both judge and jury, and not only to weigh carefully
the evidence for and against the retention of any name
thus put upon its trial, but also to administer strict and
impartial justice, according
to the laws of scientific ter-
that the
minology. Besides, it must not be forgotten
nomenclature used by scientific men in other countries,
where many branches of natural history
are cultivated
not less assiduously or successfully than in Great Britain,
does not altogether agree with ours. The utmost pains
ought
to be taken to reconcile or lessen the difference
between us and them in this respect, so as to ensure as
much uniformity as possible. Naturalists of all coun-
tries are members of the great commonwealth of science,
and their technical language is the same. Our patriotic
feelings, although commendable in other matters, ought