CHAPTER IX 



WOODLAND WORK AND WORKING PLANS 



FEW branches of estate work are more interesting, either to 

 the man engaged in it or to the general observer, than wood- 

 work. From the raising of the seedling in the nursery to the 

 felling of the mature tree in the wood, and its subsequent 

 removal, there is always something of interest to note and 

 some interesting problem to solve. Even though the sound 

 of the axe may be associated with unpleasant emotions for 

 the true lover of arboreal life, there is also something cheery 

 about it as well, reminiscent of sturdy energy and freedom. 

 Life in the woods has always proved attractive to those fond 

 of country pursuits, and it is especially attractive in winter, 

 when other parts of the country are barren and lifeless. 

 Almost every month brings its characteristic changes, denoting 

 the advance of the season and the development and cessation 

 of growth. 



Although the average woodman may not possess that 

 artistic eye which sees beauty in every twig and leaf, and 

 which is able to appreciate the various forms and groupings 

 of woodland trees, yet there is little doubt that the effect 

 of woodland scenery makes its impression upon him also, 

 although he may be unable to put his impressions into words. 

 In spite of the arduous labour peculiar to his calling for most 

 wood-work is exceptionally severe on the labourer there is a 

 fascination in it which binds him more closely to it the longer 

 he lives, and he seldom leaves it for any other sphere of work, 

 so long as health and strength remain. No doubt, the higher 

 wages which woodmen receive in return for the greater skill 

 required in their labour, do something to retain good work- 

 men in the wood ; but it is also certain that the freer and 



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