CHAP, xxxix.] SEASONING. 315 



The winter-felled logs were sounder, less rent by 

 shakes, and the centres or early growth generally showed 

 less of incipient decay than the spring-felled. The 

 centres in both, however, unless they are carefully pro- 

 tected from the weather, are liable to be deteriorated at 

 the ends after being about three years in store, and if 

 exposed for a longer period, the deterioration will be 

 more serious, inasmuch as the shakes will be deeper and 

 more open, and instead of the early stage of decom- 

 position at the ends, there may be decided rot super- 

 vening, and involving great waste whenever it is required 

 to be brought into use. The Tewart of Australia and 

 the Greenheart of Demerara are, however, notable ex- 

 ceptions to this, for on these two woods time and weather 

 have little effect ; they seem to be almost imperishable. 



Ten to twelve years seems but a short time compared 

 with the usual and common duration of timber, and 

 when we hear of the timber framework and fitments of 

 old buildings being found in a sound state after having 

 stood the test of ages, I think it should be understood 

 that it could only have been under certain very favourable 

 conditions. 



First. That the timber was of good quality when 

 selected for employment. 



Secondly. That it was at least moderately seasoned 

 when brought into use. 



Thirdly. That it was placed in a favourable position 

 in the building for lasting, and where it had a free 

 circulation of air about it, without being in a draught. 



Fourthly. That the temperature was moderate and 

 regular, and not subject to sudden calorific changes, or 

 even to too strong a light. 



The most effectual way to preserve good timber is to 

 partially season it in as natural a way as possible before 



