i o S Y L V A BOOK i 



continually ascending, 'till (having sufficiently satu- 

 rated them) it transpires the rest of the liquid at the 

 summity and tops of the branches into the atmosphere, 

 and leaving some of the less refined matter in a viscid 

 hony-dew, or other exsudations, (often perceived on 

 the leaves and blossoms,) anon descending and joining 

 again with what they meet, repeat this course in 

 perpetual circulation : Add to this, that from hence 

 those regions and places crowded with numerous and 

 thick standing forest-trees and woods, (which hinder 

 the necessary evolition of this superfluous moisture, 

 and intercourse of the air) render those countries and 

 places, more subject to rain and mists, and conse- 

 quently unwholsome ; as is found in our American 

 plantations, as formerly nearer us, in Ireland ; both 

 since so much improved by felling and clearing these 

 spacious shades, and letting in the air and sun, and 

 making the earth fit for tillage, and pasture, that 

 those gloomy tracts are now become healthy and 

 habitable. It is not to be imagined how many noble 

 seats and dwellings in this nation of ours, (to all 

 appearance well situated,) are for all that unhealthful, 

 by reason of some grove, or hedge-rows of antiqua- 

 ted dotard trees ; nay, sometimes a single tuft only, 

 (especially the falling autumnal leaves neglected to be 

 taken away) filling the air with musty and noxious 

 exhalations ; which being ventilated, by glades cut 

 through them, for passage of the stagnant vapours, 

 have been cur'd of this evil, and recovered their 

 reputation. 



But to return to where we left ; water in this 

 action, imbib'd with such matter, applicable to 

 every species of plants and vegetables, does not as we 

 affirm'd, operate to the full extent and perfection of 



