SEASONING AND IMPEEGNATION OF TIMBEE 271 
No definite time can be stated for the seasoning of timber ; 
it depends upon climate, quality and size of scantling, and 
also the purpose for which it is required. The thicker the 
timber, naturally the longer it will take to season, and 
some timbers require much longer time than others, but 
it should always be a matter of some months and some- 
FiG. 38. — Showing Method of Stacking Sleepers for Seasoning. 
times years, and when we consider the value in most situa- 
tions of thoroughly seasoned wood, time should not be 
grudged in the operation. Laslett, who had a large experi- 
ence, gives from four months to twenty-six months for oak 
in sizes of 4 inches to 24 inches square, for fir of the same 
sizes three to thirteen months, and for planks half to two- 
thirds of the above time, according to thickness ; it is not 
