190 J. V. DE COQUE. 



In dealing with the fancy or figured timbers in which I include 

 the brush varieties, I have as far as possible adhered to vernacular 

 names only, as notwithstanding their number, many of them are 

 •quite distinct enough in grain and general appearance for easy 

 identification. 



The Study of Hardwoods. 



I have frequently been asked by architects and others for some 

 suggestions whereby they may be able to distinguish one hardwood 

 from another. It is an utter impossibility to set forth any fixed 

 rule which would act as an effectual guide. The pale hardwoods 

 are equally as conflicting to the inexperienced eye as the dark 

 and red varieties, yet to the expert there are no two species but 

 differ in some respect or other. 



Another and even greater difficulty presents itself in the fact 

 of the same species of timber differing, often to a considerable 

 extent, in appearance in various localities where it grows. No 

 one need attempt to undertake this interesting study with any 

 prospect of success in a half-hearted manner. He must in the 

 first place be enthusiastic, beginning with one timber at a time, 

 studying it carefully until the eye gets accustomed to its peculiari- 

 ties; he must not be discouraged at finding from time to time his pet 

 ideas and conclusions upset when comparing two or more timbers 

 of one species. The essential point is getting the eye accustomed 

 to the timber, which can only be achieved by continual application 

 and close study. Above all things the student must remember, 

 in his search for information, that in ninety nine cases out of a 

 hundred his informant has a personal motive in recommending 

 a particular timber to his favourable consideration ; before 

 believing anything he is told, he should first satisfy himself that 

 the statements are correct. Every saw-miller and timber getter 

 will positively assure you that the particular varieties growing 

 close to his mill or axe are superior to all others. 



In the various Government Departments of this Colony experts 

 are appointed whose duty it is to see that only approved timber 



