I recently discoverd the treasure trove that I work in, the Plant Systematics Laboratory library. It is no wonder Alex loves this spot. Nestled in shelves are many many books of all sorts, from all ages. You could just feel the rich heritage sitting here. :)
I picked this book off the shelf. And only read the preface and introduction (which is perhaps the only parts in which I have the time to read) and noticed how polite the author, D. D. Johnson was.
".... Many others have helped with comments on the original version. Such help has greatly increased the value of the work. Its imperfections are my own responsibility." I just find it so beautiful, the language of many Englishmen, just like a gentlemen. :) I can imagine this kindly Professor and his gentle and polite ways just reading this sentence.
Prof. Tan mentioned in lectures a few times how Singapore's secondary forests offers a beginners course on plant species, as it is a rain forest and species rich, yet not so rich that it overwhelms an amatuer.
Another quote from D. S. Johnson:
"To the overseas visitor Singapore offers a sample of tropical wildlife which can be observed easily, in comfort, and without danger. To the serious local naturalist it provides an almost unique opportunity to study the interaction of man and wild life in an urbanized equatorial setting."
In another famous book, The Wayside Trees of Malaya, Corner in his preface to the 3rd Edition address lover of plants a "plantsman" or "one who delights in living plants." Such beautiful language once again, leaves me in awed.
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