THE ROYAL FOREST SCHOOL AT VALLOMBROSA. 189 



On one occasion (1871) the excursion was to Naples, to visit the 

 International Exhibition of Woods used in Shipbuilding, and after- 

 wards to remarkable woods in South Italy, occupying altogether 

 four weeks. 



Examinations. — Every six months the progress of the pupils is 

 tested, and there is a final examination at the close of the third 

 year, when the professors in council declare the successful pupils 

 to be " approved unanimously," or * approved unanimously, with 

 commendation." Vacancies in the Forest Department are re- 

 served for the passed pupils of the institution. 



My time unfortunately did not allow me to remain more than 

 one night at Vallombrosa, but I was much pleased with the good 

 order prevailing in the establishment, and with the practical 

 training out of doors. The director is a man of great ability, and 

 brings learning and administrative talent to bear upon his work. 

 He has availed himself of the experience of the best forest admin- 

 istrators in France and Germany in framing the regulations and 

 curriculum of the institution under his charge, and strives to im- 

 part solid instruction in hydraulics, civil engineering, and the 

 collateral branches, so as to equip the students thoroughly for use- 

 ful service. Cavalier di Berenger's published books and pamphlets, 

 upward of thirty, show how well versed he is in the details of 

 forest management, and all that relates thereto. Among these 

 may be specially mentioned the Archeologia Forestale, 806 pp., 

 Venezia, 1859-63, a work of great erudition, giving the histoiy of 

 forest jurisprudence in Italy, which had been brought to my 

 notice by the Hon. G. P. Marsh, U.S. Plenipotentiaiy at Rome. 

 Another memoir of great value is, " On the Absolute Influence of 

 Forests on the Temperature of the Air," Florence, 1871. Both of 

 these works received special medals at the International Exposi- 

 tion of Naples, 1871. 



Director di Berenger's duties require much tact, vigilance, and 

 perseverance ; and I am sure that if the Italian Government give 

 him the support he deserves, the result of his labours, so far 

 achieved, will bring much honour to the nation, and lasting bene- 

 fit to the country. 



VOL. VIII., PART II. 



