On Timber at Valley Forge. 377 



That where bkick oak had been most general, white 

 oak, hickory and chesnut now plentifully exist. 



That of the hickory and chesnut, there were at least 

 16 to 1 of what grew on the same ground in the year 

 1777 ; and that these two latter species of timber, were 

 now flourishing, in the highest degree, in many places 

 where no other timber formerly grew, than v^diite oak, 

 black oak, and Spanish oak. 



That notwithstanding the old encampment, and the 

 ground within its vicinity, yet present considerable 

 quantities of timber, similar to that which was cut in 

 the autumn of 1777, and the winter and spring of 1778; 

 it has originated almost universally from the old stumps 

 or roots. 



Since I had the pleasure of last conversing with you 

 on the subject of the change of timber, I have availed 

 myself of opportunities of mentioning to several in- 

 telligent characters, the statements which I have re- 

 ceived, with respect to the change of timber, on the 

 ground of the old encampment, and its vicinity ; and 

 they have, without exception, confirmed the general 

 facts above stated. I have only to add, that from re- 

 cent information, the farmers, in many parts of this 

 county, are so decidedly convinced of the change of 

 timber ; that they reluctantly cut their full grown w^hite 

 oak, black oak, and hickory ; knowing that these spe- 

 cies will be succeeded by some other, of a quality in- 

 ferior for fuel. Believe me to be, Sir, 



with great respect, 



your obedient servant, 



Isaac Way.ve. 

 Richard Peters, Esc^. 



VOL. III. B 3 



