26 Jige of Forest Trees. [July. 



side was much less by nearly one-half than that of any other side 

 of the tree, but we soon discovered the cause of this — a brook 

 had encroached on the south side, washihg away the soil and 

 exposing the roots to within about two feet of the trunk of the 

 tree. Does not this seem to prove that trees derive a large por- 

 tion of their substance from the soil? However, we are aware 

 that it might be asserted that the greater growth on any one side 

 had caused the larger roots. 



It will be seen that we cannot boast of any very ancient trees, 

 like the cedars of Lebanon, which are said to be 2000 years old. 

 According to Adanson, some of the famous Baobab trees in Africa 

 are 5150 years old, and Decandolle supposes that the cypress trees 

 of Chapultepec, in Mexico, are still older. In the language of 

 another, " It would seem that after a certain age, all trees decrease 

 in their rapidity of growth, a fact of some importance to be 

 known to planters; the oak, for instance, between its fortieth and 

 sixtieth years; the elm, after its fiftieth year; the spruce after its 

 fortieth. Of this rate of growth an interesting table has been 

 constructed, showing the increase in diameter of certain trees 

 every 10 years, from 1 to 150 years." 



The prevailing growth of timber in this vicinity is the white 

 oak, growing on a good wheat soil. 



Yates County, M. Y., June 1, 1846. 



No conduct is so injurious to a cause as cruelty; erroneous opi- 

 nions may be entertained, differences of sentiment may prevail; 

 but a cause which is supported by cruelty, even if good, will 

 meet with just execration. To support and sustain a cause, there- 

 fore, a kind deportment and a gentlemanly, regard to the persons 

 and opinions of others, will secure the attention of opponents, and 

 do more to win favor than the most powerful arguments. 



