180 THE PRACTICAL PLANTER. 



Perhaps either with equal safety. Granted : 

 and with equal effect too, as has been re- 

 peatedly proved. 



I would now beg to know, whether this 

 celebrated composition be better fitted to ex- 

 clude moisture, and resist the action of the 

 atmosphere, than a simple ingredient which 

 has been used for ages past, both by sea and 

 land, and for which we have not yet found a 

 substitute equivalent, namely, tar? And I 

 would also beg to know, which of the two is 

 most easily procured, either with respect to 

 expence or trouble; which would last 

 longest when applied, or keep best in readi- 

 ness against accidents? 



I have no objection to powder of alabaster, 

 wood-ashes, or bone-dust; but have found 

 fine sand, brick-dust, or sand produced by 

 rubbing a chip of free-stone with the finger, 

 as useful, effectual, and durable. 



In fine, it is a matter of indifference whe- 

 ther the wound be laid over with Mr. For- 

 syth's plaister, tar afterwards strewed with 

 sand, &. or any mild paint. If air and 

 moisture are effectually excluded, the effect 

 is the same. But, by usipg tar, much trou- 



