474 



ASH; MANNA. 



than that of the Oak, and more easily split, it is not so readily 

 broken by a cross strain. It is therefore of great use for agri- 

 cultural and other implements ; nothing being equal to it for 

 poles, ladders, long handles, and other purposes, in which strength 

 and elasticity are required in combination with lightness. The 

 Ash seldom attains any great size as a forest tree ; and it is not 



FIG. 172. THE ASH-TREE. 



of consequence that it should, as the wood of moderately- old trees 

 is the most serviceable. It is one of the most elegant, however, 

 of forest-trees; being peculiarly distinguished by its lightness 

 and gracefulness of aspect. Allied to the Ash, but possessing a 

 corolla, is the Manna-ash, which (in common with other species) 

 yields that peculiar exudation, consisting of sugar mixed up 

 with a purgative principle, known in medicine under the name 

 of Manna. This is brought to England chiefly from the South 

 of Italy; and it is principally employed as an aperient for 



