266 TIMBER AND TIMBER TREES. [chap. 



with well-squared pieces of this timber, measuring 40 to 

 48 inches on the side, with every appearance of having 

 been cut from tall trees. Hence we infer that in their 

 growth they must exceed the height of those grown in 

 Honduras. 



The wood is red in colour, moderately hard, less 

 strong, and with the centre more softj spongy, and shaky 

 than either of the varieties before referred to. Exception 

 may, however, be taken in favour of Tabasco ; the districts 

 of Frontera, ChiltepeCj Santa Ana, and Tonala, each 

 yielding some very excellent timber.* The grain of 

 the Minatitlan is generally very plain, but that cut in 

 the province of Tabasco has generally some rowiness 

 or figure to recommend it for special purposes. It is 

 easy to work, takes a good polish, splits very little, and 

 stands well after it is seasoned. It is tough and elastic 

 while quite fresh, but brittle when thoroughly dry, 

 breaking off short if subjected to a heavy strain. 



The chief defect in Mexican Mahogany is the pre- 

 valence of star-shake, and this, combined with the 

 spongy character of the early layers, or centres, of many 

 of the trees, frequently spreading, as they do, over about 

 one-sixth of their diameter, detracts very much from 

 their usefulness ; but, as this can all be seen by exa- 

 mining the ends, the converter will naturally select and 

 appropriate the logs to the work he may have in hand, 

 and thus avoid any serious loss. 



The Mexican Mahogany is generally too large and 

 heavy in growth to be converted profitably to ship 

 scantlings, but is in other respects a very good substitute 

 for Honduras for all kinds of joiners' and cabinet work, 



* Mexican is sold in the London market at about the same price as 

 Honduras Mahogany ; but the cuttings from Tabasco often realise fully 

 20 per cent. more. 



