16 



ancient building, the oldest specimen that I am able to produce being, one from 

 Old Shelsford Hall, Oxon, dating from about 200 years ago. 



Note. — 1886. Soon after this paper was written, I found in the museum at Kew 

 a piece of oak labelled, " Spanish chestnut, from an old beam in 

 Windsor Castle. " The Curator was very easily convinced of the error 

 and had it corrected. More recently, and in consequence of some ex- 

 tensive enquiries which I set on foot, Mr. Harry Hems, wood carver, 

 of Exeter, sent me a piece from the 15th century rood screen of Rod- 

 mersham Church, Kent, which I have no doubt is Spanish chestnut, 

 and is the only instance of its use that is publicly known at the present 

 time. 



