MOUNTAIN ASH. 165 



authors Fraxinm Cambro-Britannica, were fixed against 

 houses, or used as walking-staves, because, says old Gerard, 

 "witches and all evil spirits do abhor that same red- 

 berried tree. Hence the name Witchen." 



These vestiges of ancient superstitions recall to mind 

 the custom of wearing and suspending amulets around the 

 necks of cattle, which still partially prevails in the south 

 of Europe, And in Scotland a very ancient song, called 

 the Laidley Worm of Spindleston Heughs, refers to the 

 same observance. 



" Their spells were vain : the hags returned 



To the queen in sorrowful mood, 



Crying, that witches have no power 



Where there is roan-tree wood." 



The wood, however, has many qualities which are both 

 good and true. It is soft, yet tough and solid, and is 

 excellent for hoops and purposes of archery, and is used 

 in making chairs and tables, shafts, and the spokes of 

 wheels. The roots are formed into handles for knives, 



