139 
mpared with the rubber producer. These species are found at 
altitudes ranging from 5,500 to about 8,000 feet above the level of 
Di ending the slopes of the forest-clad mountains from the 
lower iléYatons at which the Colombia Virgen grows (5,500 feet), 
another distinct species occurs at an altitude of about 3,500 feet. 
This species presents a striking resemblance to the Colombia 
Virgen, and it can only be distinguished after considerable 
experience. This kind, too, yields only a milky dios, paer 
down the mountains still another species extends, viz., from a 
3,500 to 2,000 feet above the sea. This latter is ‘fo a ed 
AM of forest, and in regard to its general aspect, foliage, &c. ee 
it approximates very closely to its rubber congener, so muc 
indeed, that at first sight it is easily mistaken for the other. Al 
the species are characterised by the two glands at the base of the 
ves. 
It: may be here mentioned that some three years ago a distinct 
variety of the Virgen rubber was discovered at a eoneiderabir 
lower altitude than that at which the species in question grows, 
thus at about 4,000 feet above the sea. This variety existed only 
on a very circumscribed area, and all the trees were felled and the 
product extracted with great celerity. The prices obtained for this 
corresponded exactly with those pe for the typical article. 
During the past fortnight I have been making enquiries at 
that there can be no doubt that if large consignments of this were 
obtained from Colombia instead of insignificant quantities, the 
price of the article would be enhanced, for manufacturers adapt, . 
o some extent, their machinery to the class of article under 
treatment. 
I herewith — some 3,000 seeds of the Virgen species. 
ese seeds were collected fully a ren riam but I have nu" 
in the E ALTRA of seeds four years old. 
Having resided during seven years on the spot, between 3° and 
4°. N. latitude, where these rubber trees grow, I am well 
g aaa a with the conditions of soil, humidity, and temperature 
i in ite for the successful cultivation of the plant. For further 
ormation on this point I beg to refer you to my letter dated the 
x prk 1888, t o the Secretary of State for India. 
nclusion | may mention that in India the best localities 
BE this gore tt would be rcc. at points peret ig and 
26° latitude, and at elevations of 2,500 to 5,000 feet above 
e sea. Of course, in more Prats latitudes higher vans 
would have to be selected. 
(ied). pio THOMSON. 
W, T. bho LA uu c. M Lo. F.R.S., 
Royal Gard 
