'* 



A6A HISTORY OF 



vie with those of the most fragrant balsams. 

 This resin exudes spontaneously from the 

 trunk ; the more readily, if incisions are made 

 in its bark. It is of a yellow colour ; fluid at 

 first, but being* inspissated in the sun, it ac- 

 quires a solid form. Burnt on hot coals, it 

 emits a smell very much resembling that of a 

 mixture of balsam of Tolu and benzoin, some- 

 what approaching to storax. It is perfectly so- 

 luble in spirit of wine, but not in water, nor 

 even in essential oil of turpentine, unless it be 

 digested in a strong heat. The varnish which 

 it makes with either is very weak, and of little 

 use. With respect to its medicinal qualities, 

 Mr. White has found it, in many cases, a good 

 pectoral medicine, and very balsamic. It is 

 not obtainable in so great abundance as the 

 red gum produced by the Eucalyptus resinifera. 

 Thus having described the principal natural 

 productions, I shall resume the history of the 

 country: as to notice the endless variety of 

 flowers, &c. &c. would exceed the limits of my 

 plan, qrr indeed my wish. 



