78 A PLAIN AND EASY ACCOUNT 



A very familiar species (P. squamosus) of those 

 having a lateral stem is found on almost every decayed 

 ash, and sometimes on other trees. It has a pale ochre- 

 tinted pileus, somewhat of a fan shape, with the surface 

 covered with darker scales (PI. ]9). The stem is thick 

 and dark-coloured, the pores running some distance 

 down it. It is extremely various in size, occasionally 

 attaining enormous dimensions, perhaps seven feet in 

 circumference, and weighing forty-two pounds. We have 

 already alluded to the rapidity of its growth.* We 

 have seen drawings of exceedingly curious forms that 

 have been found growing in cellars. The edible qualities 

 of this species cannot be declared first-rate. Mrs. Hussey, 

 who is a very good judge in such matters, says one might 

 as well think of eating saddle flaps. Young specimens, 

 before they have acquired the leathery consistency, 

 would serve for an occasional meal. In this stage they 

 are prepared for the table in some parts of the Con- 

 tinent. A more suitable application, and one strongly 

 recommended to those who, in these hirsute days, 

 require such an instrument, is to select a large tough 

 specimen, and after drying it carefully, cut it into shape, 

 and employ it as a razor strop. A person who has had 

 one in use for many years, says that it is far superior to 

 the majority of those offered for sale. Another Poly- 

 porus (P. betulinus"), without a stem, and not uncom- 

 monly found growing on birch-trees, is equally avail- 

 able for the same purpose. 



Two other species are recommended as esculent, 

 * Page 6. 



