32 CORDAGE FIBRES 



or pulled up by the roots and made into bundles. The bundles 

 of stalks are steeped in water for from six to ten days, and are 

 then taken out. Each stem is held singly in the hand of the 

 workman, and the bark is easily stripped off and washed to 

 remove all the particles of woody matter. In appearance the 

 fibre is white and silky, and from 5 to 10 ft. in length. 



Bombay hemp is generally used in the manufacture of rope, 

 cordage, sackcloth, &c., and is sometimes used to adulterate 

 jute, which is a superior fibre but akin in appearance. 



