vi PREFACE 



Knowledge acquired in this way can only be the result 

 of scientific study ; and this study may be greatly facilitated 

 by a perusal of the current literature thereon. 



As regards Forestry education, I should like to express 

 my opinion that British foresters can only learn their 

 Forestry in this country. 



I scout any idea that a complete training in any contin- 

 ental school can act other than most prejudiciously upon 

 those who take such a course. For the practice in foreign 

 countries is governed by different economic laws. And, 

 although the main principles of correct continental practice 

 are also applicable to this country, yet to pursue, in this 

 country, much of the detail of such practice, would usually 

 result in disaster, even if not in ridicule. 



Nevertheless, those who have had considerable experience 

 in this country will find it an inestimable advantage to pay 

 short visits to various continental forests. 



As regards the present volume, I have emphasised in 

 black type a considerable number of words and sentences, 

 as I feel that such a course will be of great benefit to a 

 certain section of my readers. 



I would direct especial attention to that which I have said 

 with regard to the choice of tree seeds (pp. 37, 38, 39, 194), 

 the occurrence of and the susceptibility of trees to spring 

 and autumn frosts (pp. 36, 37, 72, 73, 89) ; the preparation of 

 land by ploughing, and subsequently planting with a plant- 

 ing spike (pp. 67, 68, 118, 119, 132); and as to the partial 

 clearance and underplanting of crops of timber (pp. 163 to 

 175). So, also, on pp. 317 to 322, I have endeavoured to 

 show the fairness or otherwise of the railway rates charged 

 for the carriage of timber at present such a debated point. 



In Chapter XI. I have stated what I believe to be the 

 average yield of crops of timber upon certain qualities of soil. 



In Chapter XII. I have dealt, in as simple a manner 

 as possible, with the complex technicalities of the financial 



