VI 
PEEFAOE 
The botanical names for some timbers are variously 
given by different authorities — I have taken them from 
what I considered the most accurate sources, and have 
always given the spelling as it is given in official or 
Government records when these are obtainable. There are 
few subjects about which there is more difference of 
opinion than about timber, for one seldom finds that two 
people describe even the colour of two pieces of timber in 
the same terms. I have given no information of which I 
am not either certain from my own knowledge, or which I 
have not gained from authentic sources. Whilst this work 
cannot within its scope be exhaustive, I trust that I have 
treated all the important matters connected with the 
subject adequately, and that it may serve a useful purpose. 
The writing of it has been a great pleasure to me. 
J. R. BATEEDEN. 
Newcastle-on-Tynpj, 
All (I list, v.m. 
