134 THE FOREST LANDS OF NORTHERN RUSSIA. 
‘This proportion of the population to the area is indica- 
tive of the poverty of the territory. The forests belonging 
to the Imperial Domaines measure 8,774,419 desatins and 
1,048 square fathoms, or about 1,740 sqaare geographical 
miles, which amounts to about two-thirds of the whole 
area of the Government. In 1865 the revenue derived 
directly from the forests amounted to 327,993 roubles,* 
and by extra fellings 9,607 roubles 90 kopecs; in all, 
$37,540°90 roubles. According to calculation each desatin 
on an average yielded a revenue of 3°84 roubles, In sub- 
sequent years the revenue was considerably diminished in 
consequence of the saw-mills not working. 
‘In so far as forests are concerned, the importance of 
the Government of Olonetz is seen more in view of the 
fature than in relation to the present. Having several 
navigable outlets, it may be considered a reserve of forests 
available not for Russia only, but tor Europe. 
‘Looking into the accounts of revenue derived from 
these forests, we find that almost 45 per cent. of the 
revenue is the proceeds from the sale of timber taken to 
the sawmills. In 1865 there were sold to seven of these 
237,783 logs for the sum of 98,359 roubles 59} kopecs, and 
to the English Onega Company, having its fabrique on the 
River Onega in the Government of Archangel—but pre- 
paring at the present time forest material in the district of 
Kargopol in the Government of Olonetz,—logs amounting 
in value to 52,585 roubles; in all, 150,944 roubles 594 
kopecs. 
_ ‘From what has been said it tullows that the saw-mills, 
which are the principal purchasers, are indispensable for 
the sale ot umber; and that but for these there would be 
but a small sale of timber, more particularly in the 
northern parts of the Government.’ 
This is irrespective of the expense of transport in regard 
* The standard equivalent of the rouble is 3s 4d. It is generally, in accordance with 
the rate of exchange, 2s 6d. When I was in Russia last year it was 2s, and at one time 
during the war it was 1s 10d. The rouble is equal to 100 kopecs.—J. C. B, 
