V WOODS AND FIELDS 183 



that of the taller independent trees. Some 

 were twisted in strands like cables, others had 

 thick stems contorted in every variety of shape, 

 entwining snake-like round the tree trunks or 

 forming gigantic loops and coils among the 

 larger branches ; others, again, were of zigzag 

 shape, or indented like the steps of a staircase, 

 sweeping from the ground to a giddy height." 

 The reckless and wanton destruction of 

 forests has ruined some of the richest countries 

 on earth. Syria and Asia Minor, Palestine 

 and the north of Africa were once far more 

 populous than they are at present. They wera 

 once lands "flowing with milk and honey," 

 according to the picturesque language of the 

 Bible, but are now in many places reduced to 

 dust and ashes. Why is there this melancholy 

 change ? Why have deserts replaced cities ? 

 It is mainly owing to the ruthless destruction 

 of the trees, which has involved that of 

 nations. Even nearer home a similar process 

 may be witnessed. Two French departments 

 — the Hautes- and Basses- Alpes — are being 

 gradually reduced to ruin by the destruction 

 of the forests. Cultivation is diminishing. 



