1793. on the value and uses of the larch tree. 93 
Even where stones can be had for this use, which is 
only in few places, these do it in an imperfect man- 
net; and are extremely expensive: and whete these 
materials are wanting, and strong heath cannot be had, 
which next to the larch is the most incorruptible of 
ali our woody plants, the draining of such lands is 
intirely impracticable. But in every situation in 
Britain, the larix could be reared with ease ; so that 
in a very few years, the branches of it could be 
had in plenty for the important purpose now under 
consideration. This will appear a trifling matter to 
some; but to those who have well considered the 
subject, it will be deemed an object of great nation- 
al importance. 
Draining peat mofses and extensive bogs. 
Larch bruh would be peculiarly convenient for 
the purpose here enumerated, because, on account 
of the softnefs of the ground, no wezghty material 
can be brought upon it. From this circumstance no 
better expedient has been yet devised tor closing 
these drains than that of setting the dried sod of the 
surface in the bottom, so as to leave a kind of trian- 
gular opening. This answers the purpose for a 
hort time ; but as it soon closes, this must be consi- 
dered as a very impericct expedient. Even heath 
where it could be had, would be Jefs proper here 
than in firmer fields; as the drains must often, 
on account of the softnefs of the ground, be made 
of too great a width for that kind of material. 
Larch bruth therefore is the best, and indeed the on- 
ly known substance that can be economically applied 
fer this purpose on a éarge scale. 
