190 



ON HEMP. 



other, not being at all destroyed, so that they could not be separated, 

 nor was it possible to divide them into fine threads. It is evident, 

 from what has now been said, that no precise time can be fixed for 

 the duration of the rotting process ; since the quality of the Hemp, 

 that of the water, and the temperature of the air, hasten or retard 

 this operation. 



The common method of judging when the Hemp has been 

 sufficiently rotted, is by trying whether the bark parts easily from 

 the reed, and can be peeled off its whole length without breaking ; 

 for in this case it is thought to have been watered enough. How- 

 ever, it must also be allowed, that long practice enables the peasants 

 who cultivate Hemp, to give it generally a due degree of steeping^ 

 though they do sometimes mistake : and it is also to be observed, 

 that it is the constant custom of some countries to steep their Hemp 

 more than others. 



It it essential to observe, that the Hemp be not, by any means, 

 laid to steep in water in which there are animals apt to gnaw it; as 

 some insects cut the fibres asunder, and render them almost useless. 

 Of this kind in particular, are what the French . call Chevreltes, or 

 fresh -water shrimps. 



It is a common opinion, that Hemp intended for the manufac- 

 ture of fine cloth, should be rotted more than that intended for 

 -coarse cloths ; and that the Hemp intended for the making of ropes 

 should be steeped or rotted least of all. 



We have observed, that Hemp, which is not sufficiently steeped, 

 is harsh, coarse, elastic, and remains encumbered with the boon : 



and 



