[ i84 ] 



If therefore the ufes of oak timber for domeftick 

 purpofes can, as undoubtedly many of them can, 

 be fupplied by other timber, of which there are fuch 

 amazing quantities daily planted ; I think we need 

 not be afraid that the fcarcity of oak timber for 

 Ihip-building will ever be alarming. Let us at leaft 

 firft be convinced, that the price rifes, before we be^ 

 lieve that there is any fcarcity at all. For it is as 

 evident, as that efFedb follows caufe, that there can 

 be no real fcarcity, fo long as the price continues 

 nearly the fame, much more when that of the 

 crooked pieces, fo indifpenfably neceflary in the con- 

 ftrudlion of a fliip, are funk from 25 to 30 per cent. 



The fubjed of trees and timber has been my 

 favourite (ludy, and my daily employ, for near 30 

 years. The number of trees that have been planted 

 under my dire6lion, and the quantity of timber of 

 which I have had the difpofal, have been greater 

 than can fall to the lot of many men. Any com- 

 munications which the fociety may at any time wifli 

 on this fubjed, fhall be given with the greateft 

 pleafure. 



By their ajnd your obedient fervant, 



THOMAS DAVIS. 



P, S, Since 



