USES OP WOOD. 205 



stained black to make them pass muster for the 

 original. 



Few more delicious drinks, when served warm 

 in the depth of Winter, can be mentioned than 

 the wine of the Elder (Sambucus nigra); but this 

 beverage is mentioned here not appropriately in 

 a discourse on woods, but only suggestively. 

 Whilst it is well known that its leaves, blossoms, 

 and bark possess some valuable medicinal pro- 

 perties, not much, perhaps, could be said for its 

 wood, if it could only be urged that it is used for 

 the manufacture of pop-guns and other toys 

 though such an amusing purpose is also a useful 

 one. More utility than this, however, can be 

 claimed for the wood of the Elder. Its young wood 

 is said to be especially sweet and wholesome, and 

 is consequently more fit than other wood employed 

 for the purpose for use as skewers for meat and for 

 the flesh of fowls and game. ' It is further used 

 by shoemakers for pegging boots, is valued by 

 turners because it will take a good polish, and is 

 not, when mature, unlike Box in colour, and may 

 therefore be made into many fancy articles for 

 use and adornment. In ancient times it is said 



