APRIL. 1138 
appear in natural woods in uncultivated parts of the 
country. 
Of all forest trees this is perhaps the most interesting, as 
well for its usefulness as for its beauty. There cannot be 
a nobler object than an Oak in full leaf, and even in old 
age it is extremely interesting. Many are known to have 
been in existence a thousand years, and amongst others 
I may mention the Green-dale Oak, in Welbeck Park, 
Nottinghamshire. Opinions differ as to which species is 
best for timber; but, at any rate, both are useful. Besides 
the timber, the bark is most valuable for tanning leather 
and for cordage. Of foreign species, the Quercus suber 
yields the material for corks, and the Quercus coccifera the 
galls for dyeing, 
QueERcus RoBUR. Common Oak. Leaves oblong, dilated 
towards the end, obtusely lobed. Stalks of the acorns long. 
This fruit was formerly eaten by our ancestors, but now 
only supplies food for hogs, squirrels, &c. 
QUERCUS SESSILIFLORA. Sessile-fruited Oak. Leaves ob- 
long, with opposite, acute lobes, and elongated stalks ; no 
stalk to the acorn, which easily distinguishes it from the 
former. The wood has been said to be superior; but this 
I 
