112 THE HUMAN SIDE OF TREES 



the big pine barrens in quest of turpentine. Sap 

 flowing from incisions made in the tree-trunks is 

 collected and upon distillation yields water, resin 

 and turpentine. Formerly much cruelty and need- 

 less destruction was visited on the trees by hollow- 

 ing out cups to catch the sap in the heart of the 

 creatures themselves, but now the liquid is collected 

 in earthenware vessels. It has been proved that this 

 sensible method means saved trees, a lower fire risk 

 and increased output of turpentine. Turpentine 

 finds the greatest uses in paints, varnishes and medi- 

 cines. 



To obtain tar the bodies of trees are put through 

 a process of destructive distillation either by burn- 

 ing in kilns or as a by-product in the production 

 of wood-vinegar (pyroligneous acid) and wood 

 alcohol (methyl). A further refining of tar yields 

 pitch a substance of dark colour and brilliant 

 lustre. 



All man's wonderful inventions are copied after 

 Mother Nature's marvellous arts. This is espe- 

 cially true of household supplies. The grandeur 

 of man's achievements pales before the grandeur of 

 Nature. She has her bath every summer morning ; 

 her cisterns never fail; her pumps never get out 

 of order. For several hours after sunrise her leaves 

 are covered with dew; her flowers sparkle with a 



