IXTRODUCTION. 



3 



Tlie arts and manufactures are much indebted to Pinaceee for many 

 of their staples ; for from this group we obtain the various resinous 

 juices which in commerce we find as solid or liquid balsams, resins, 

 turpentines, tars, oils, spirits, pitch, lamp-black, olibanum, and 

 sandarac ; and in many of the more refined and confected compounds 

 of the chemists are to be found fir and pine juice in more or less 

 quantity. Not a few of the species produce seeds which are good for 

 food, and in some countries are largely consumed as such by both man 

 and animal ; while, at least one species, — the common Yew, produces fruit 

 which acts as an irritant or poison in the stomach or intestines of man 

 and beast. The manufacture of our national beverage gin is depend- 

 ant upon the Juniper for at least one of its constituents ; for it is from 

 the berry of this genus that its most esteemed quality, its rich piquant 

 aroma is obtained. The fibre threads of the leaves, roots, or wood of 

 some of the Pines are now being converted into good and comfortable 

 clothing ; paper, also, is being manufactured ; and many other 

 articles for art, or use and ornament, may yet be found in the lignines 

 produced by the firs and pines ; which, if coal and iron ever run out, 

 might be ready for service when air or electricity may supersede steam 

 as the motive power on our planet. 



For ornamental planting in this country, no trees or shrubs excel 

 the firs and pines ; and for true natural beauty, irrespective of painted 

 floral forms, where, oh ! where, in the wide, wide world shall we find 

 such majestic forms, such symmetrical gracefulness, and such fabulous 

 giants ! such lovable pigmies ! such varied and pleasing shades and tints 

 of colour : such odorous perfumes, or such an assemblage of conspicuous 

 dissimilants, as are to be found amongst this family of !N^ature's 

 vegetable products? 



" There tow'ring firs in conic form arise, 

 And with a pointed spear divide the skies." — Prior. 



Or, . . 



'* Here pigmy pines by other trees forlorn, 

 With verdant gems the mountain peaks adorn." — Nelson. 



Again, 



" That gi'owth the western north hath late unveil'd 



To European eyes ; * those limbs 

 Gigantic, threefold what one deera'd prevail' d 



The loftiest stems to rise ; those Anakims 

 Of trees have dazzled sense." — Craig. 



* Gigantahies Welling foniayia, Wellington's Giant Fir. Yclcped Well ingtonia 

 Giyanteaj The Gigantic Wellington. It should, at least; have been Gigantica. 



B 2 



