240 TRANSACTIONS OF ROYAL SCOTTISH ARBORICULTURAL SOCIETY. 



next hundred pnges. Chemical analyses of the fine earth of a large 

 number of forest soils are given in the Appendix. 



Two maps showing the distribution of soils and forests, along 

 with some good photographs of typical forests, are given. The 

 question of the relative importance of soil surveys need not be 

 discussed here ; at the same time, in connection with the soil of 

 our own country, one naturally asks if it would not be advisable — 

 even necessary — especially in view of extensive schemes of 

 afforestation likely to be put forward in the near future, to first 

 make a systematic survey of the land available and suitable. 

 Data showing elevation, rainfall, aspect, and the principal 

 physical and chemical characters of the land would undoubtedly 

 be very helpful, and much remains to be done in increasing our 

 knowledge in this direction. The following is taken from page 

 332, "U faut consacrer a la production des bois toutes les terres 

 trop ingrates pour celle des cereales." One is thus led to conclude 

 that a soil survey of both forest and agricultural land would be 

 beneficial. 



The last chapter is taken up with the improvement of forest 

 soils and is well worth reading. Speaking of the use of manures, 

 the author points out that, except in horticulture, very little reliable 

 data are available. 



If only for the sake of the tables, and references in the foot- 

 notes to the work of other authors, the book can be strongly 

 recommended, and besides it contains statements of general 

 principles which alone would make it acceptable to all interested 

 in the subject. R. A. Berry. 



