64 Gilpin's torbst scenery. 



merchant, and, witli equal complacency, takes in 

 tlie wliole offspring of tlie wood ; though, it must 

 be owned, the three species already characterized 

 are both the most useful and the most picturesque. 

 We esteem it fortunate, when the idea of 

 licturesque beauty coincides with that of utility, 

 s the two ideas are often at variance. 

 After timber trees, the Beech deserves our 

 notice. Some, indeed, rank the Beech among 

 timber trees ; but, I believe, in general it does not 

 find that respect, as its wood is of a soft, spongy 

 nature, sappy and alluring to the worm. And 

 yet I have heard that it has lately been found to 

 answer as well as Elm in forming the keels, stems 

 and stern-posts of the largest ships. 



The wood of the Beech has advanced in general estima- 

 tion since Gilpin's timej and is now largely used, especially 

 for the manufacture of articles of furniture. Loudon re- 

 marks that the durability of its vrood is said to be increased 

 by steeping it in water ; and ' according to some, by dis- 

 barking the tree while standing.' He adds, ' In England, 

 at the present time, the Beech is principally employed in 

 making bedsteads and chairs ; and it is also in great de- 

 mand for panels for cai-riages, and for various purposes in 

 joinery, cabinet-making, and turnery.' — Ed. 



