106 On the comparative value 



tivation had taken place, present a truly interesting 

 subject of enquiry, for in every instance, as far as my 

 observation has extended, (and it has been considera- 

 ble,) the prevailing timber, whether just springing up, 

 or of considerable growth, is found, universally, of an 

 entirely different kind from that which had been sub- 

 dued. This fact is readily ascertained, by examining 

 the stumps, or girdled trees, which are still standing. 



Locust,* which approaches nearer to indestructibi- 

 lity than any other wood which I have observed here, 

 excepting the yellow pine knots, is found lying on the 

 ground, in various directions, where but little traces of 

 tliem are to be discovered among the growing timber ; 

 other varieties having taken possession of the grounds, 

 which were formerly covered with them, and it often 

 happens, in the neighbourhood of Philipsburg, and 

 elsewhere, that when either log-heaps or the timber in 

 general, has been burned, that locust imm.ediately 

 springs up in profusion, where little or no traces of 

 tliis timber, either dead or alive, had been previously 

 observed. ^ 



But here it will be proper to observe, that although 

 no grounds, which are not rich, will be found covered 

 with a profusion of very luxuriant timber, yet fortuitous 

 circumstances frequently occur, which are inimical to 

 the growth of timber, on the best of soils. The hunts- 

 men burn the woods, to obtain a better chance for kill- 

 ing their game, and the inattention of the inhabitants, 

 who kindle fires for various purposes, also spreads de- 



* Robinia Pseudo-Acacia. Lin. 



