CHAP. XXXIX.] SLASONING. 315 
The winter-felled logs were sounder, less rent by 
shakes, and the centres or early growth generally showed 
less of incipient decay than the spring-felled. The 
centres in both, however, unless they are carefully pro- 
tected from the weather, are liable to be deteriorated at 
the ends after being about three years in store, and if 
exposed for a longer period, the deterioration will be 
more serious, inasmuch as the shakes will be deeper and 
more open, and instead of the early stage of decom- 
position at the ends, there may be decided rot super- 
vening, and involving great waste whenever it is required ; 
to be brought into use. The Tewart of Australia and 
the Greenheart of Demerara are, however, notable ex- 
ceptions to this, for on these two woods time and weather 
have little effect ; they seem to be almost imperishable. 
Ten to twelve years seems but a short time compared 
with the usual and common duration of timber, and 
when we hear of the timber framework and fitments of 
old buildings being found in a sound state after having 
stood the test of ages, I think it should be understood 
that it could only have been under certain very favourable 
conditions. 
First. That the timber was of good quality when 
selected for employment. 
Secondly. That it was at least moderatcly seasoned 
when brought into use. 
Thirdly. That it was placed in a favourable position 
in the building for lasting, and where it had a free 
circulation of air about it, without being in a draught. 
Fourthly. That the temperature was moderate and 
regular, and not subject to sudden calorific changes, or 
even to too strong a light. 
The most effectual way to preserve good timber is to 
partially season it in as natural a way as possible before 
