102 TIMBER 
description has been given in the chapter devoted to 
Indian woods. It is reported-as being plentiful in the 
Colonies, and is largely used for various purposes. It 
has not, however, when tried in the United Kingdom, 
found much favour in competition with old-established 
varieties from Central America. 
From further Asiatic countries other varieties of hard- 
woods, in more or less limited ‘quantities, are shipped to 
Great Britain. Japan, in addition to the supplies of 
oak, an account of which has been given in a previous 
chapter, sends :to the English and other markets con; 
signments of ash. This timber is shipped in squared 
logs, somewhat short in average lengths, but of good 
diameter, and the wood, although not comparable with 
English or American for toughness and strength, has 
found some favour. It is lighter’ in weight than the 
English wood, of straight, clean grain, and possesses 
good working qualities. It is perhaps more fitted for 
furniture ‘making than for the uses to which ash timber 
is generally put, and, should a recurrence of a fashion 
for this wood, as a material for furniture, again occur, 
would probably be in great demand. 
‘From Borneo several woods are exported, the principal 
being a cedar, which, under the name of Borneo Cedar, 
has a moderate sale in the English markets. In addition, 
camphor wood is shipped, and one or two ‘further 
varieties. 
From the Dutch possessions of Java a regular export 
of Teak wood takes place. This variety, under the name 
of Java Teak, is a regular article of commerce both in 
the English and Continental markets. It is not com- 
parable, however, with the timbers of Burma and Siam, 
and realises very inferior prices compared with those 
made for the superior kinds. It is generally exported in 
short logs and flitches, mostly of hewn manufacture. 
