206 



THE TIMBERS OF THE WORLD 



For many years, and indeed until quite recently, it has been supposed tliat 

 it was stronger and more durable than that from the Andamans, but 

 although it does possess qualities of strength and durability- abo^^e most 

 timbers, either under ground or exposed to wet and dry, Mr. R. S. Pearson 

 savs that the Andaman padauk (Pterocarpus dalhergioidcs) is now con- 

 sidered to be better in all respects. It is stronger than teak, but it is not 

 particularly elastic, and according to Troup is especially suitable for 



Ph I staph I u A At )i 

 Crobs CXTIN L..i. 



" naves, spokes, and felloes of cart and carriage wheels, solid cart wheels 

 axles, carriage buildmg, furniture, ploughs, harrows, and Burmese harps." 

 It has also been used in Rangoon for paving blocks ; for -which purpose 

 it is doubtful, however, if it would be suitable in England, as it is too 

 hard and would probably prove too slippery. In England it has been 

 used for gun-carriages, but its real ^•alue has ne\-er been fully recognised. 



TJie pores are verj- irregular in size and position ; they are generallv 

 plugged with a white gum. The fine, medullary rays are rather obscure 



