134 THE FOREST LANDS OF NORTHERN RUSSIA. 



' This proportion of the population to the area is indica- 

 tive of the poverty of the territory. The forests belonging 

 to the Imperial Domaines measure 8,774,419 desatins and 

 1,048 square fathom?, or about 1,740 square- geographical 

 miles, which amounts to about two-thirds of the whole 

 area of the Government. In 1865 the revenue derived 

 directly from the forests amounted to 327,993 roubles/* 

 and by extra fellings 9,607 roubles 90 kopecs; in all, 

 y37,540-yO roubles. According to calculation each desatin 

 on an average yielded a revenue of 8'84 roubles. In sub- 

 sequent years the revenue was considerably diminished in 

 consequence of the saw-mills not working. 



' In so far as forests are concerned, the importance of 

 the Government of Olonetz is seen more in view of the 

 future than in relation to the present. Having several 

 navigable outlets, it may be considered a reserve of forests 

 available not for Russia only, but for Europe. 



'Looking into the accounts of revenue derived from 

 these forests, we find that almost 45 per cent, of the 

 revenue is the proceeds from the sale of timber taken to 

 the sawmills. In 1865 there were sold to seven of these 

 237,783 logs for the sum of 98,359 roubles 59| kopecs, and 

 to the English Onega Company, having itsfabrique on the 

 River Onega in the Government of Archangel but pre- 

 paring at the present time forest material in the district of 

 Kargopol in the Government of Olonetz, logs amounting 

 in value to 52,585 roubles ; in all, 150,944 roubles 59J 

 kopecs. 



' From what has been Sdid it follows that the saw-mills, 

 which are the principal purchasers, are indispensable for 

 the salt) ot umber; and that but for these there would be 

 bat a small sale of timber, more particularly in the 

 northern parts of the Government.' 



This is irrespective of the expense of transport in regard 



* The standard equivalent of the rouble is 3s 4d. It is generally, in accordance with 

 the rate of exchange, 2s 6d. When I was in Russia last 3-ear it was 2s, and at one time 

 during the war it was Is lOd. The rouble is equal to 100 kopecs, J. C. B. 



