112 SYLVA FLORIFERA. 



In its native country, it grows to the height 

 of 1 00 feet, from whence great quantities of 

 this timber are imported, under the name of 

 white pine ; and so much has it been esteemed 

 for naval purposes, that there was a law made 

 in the ninth year of Queen Anne for the pre- 

 servation of the trees, and to encourage their 

 growth in America. 



In 1736, a tree of this species was cut down 

 on the banks of the river Merimack, that was 

 seven feet eight inches in diameter at the butt 

 end ; and it is now ascertained that this tree, 

 as well as the Scotch fir and the common 

 larch, produce a profitable and serviceable 

 timber when planted in British soil. 



In flat countries, where the timber-trees are 

 principally oak, or other round-headed kinds, 

 a few of these pines, by their spiry tops, give 

 force and character to the heavy and dull 

 sameness of the scene ; and when towering 

 over the trees of the forest, they break the 

 uniformity of the sky outline, with an effect si- 

 milar to that which the spires of churches give 

 to towns and villages. In hilly situations, the 

 pine plantation should occupy the most ele- 

 vated spot, as it adds considerably to the 

 grandeur of such scenery, and throws a soft- 

 ness on the valleys below, by the contrast of 

 colour. 



