Mr. Evans's Address 171 



(c) Branches. — Let us now turn our attention to the 



branches. 



1. We can determine whether they are inclined 



to the stem at an acute or obtuse angle. 

 We can see at a glance that, generally 

 speaking, the lower branches are longer, 

 stouter, and more spreading; that the upper 

 are smaller and more erect. 



2. We can see whether the twigs are drooping in 



magnificent tresses, or have an upward trend 

 or a downward curve. 



3. We can note whether the twigs are one-sided, 



with the spray turning upward as in the 

 beech, or whether the twigs are found on 

 dot/i sides of the main branch, as in the e/m^ 

 &c. ; whether they are alternately developed 

 or oppositely placed. 



(d) Twig*. — Should the visit be paid in winter or early 



spring, we should obtain a portion of the 

 branch or twig for closer inspection. 



1. We should note whether the twig is crooked, 



rough-barked, indicating slow growth; or 

 straight, smooth -barked, indicating quick 

 growth. 



2. We should make a transverse section of our twig, 



and note the relative position of bark, wood, 

 and pith. We should look out for any indica- 

 tions of the annual rings and medullary rays. 



3. We should examine the buds, make transverse 



and longitudinal sections, and note their 

 relative positions, shape, colour, overlapping 

 scales, rudimentary leaves and flowers. 



