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Islands, where they are gathered principally by sailors attached 
to whaling vessels. The most notable among these fruits is the 
“Coca de Mer,’’ the largest known tree fruit, curious both on 
account of its shape and size. 
PARAGUAY. 
CASE 30A. — Mate or Yerba. Paraguay Tea. 
The source of Mate, the principal drink of South America, 
is the roasted and powdered younger leaves and twigs of a forest 
tree belonging to the Holly family. 
The beverage is prepared in the same manner as tea is 
“drawn,” and is drunk in hot infusion. Great care is taken, 
however, to thoroughly strain the liquor, in order that no portion 
of the powder shall be swallowed. Properly prepared Mate 
forms a pleasant and slightly stimulating morning drink, which 
may be taken clear, or with sugar or milk, or both. 
PLATFORMS. — Upon the platforms of the three Sections 
devoted to this country may be found an excellent collection of 
its principal timbers, the largest and most complete in existence ; 
notable species are Lignum Vitae, Incense Cedar, Quebracho, and 
a particularly fine specimen of Orange Mulberry. 
A complete collection of dyeing and tanning barks, fiber 
plants, charcoals, and curious llanos may be seen upon th6 
shelves and walls. 
CASES 31 AND 3lA. — Medicinal Plants of Paraguay. 
CASES 3lB AND 3lC. — Fiber Plants. This collection is 
particularly rich in Bromeliads. 
CASES 32 AND 32A. — Economic and Medicinal Plants. 
CASE 34. — Paraguayan Seeds. Cereals, and Oils. 
BRAZIL. 
CASE 34A. — The Woods of Santa Catharina and Espiritu 
Santo. 
Though the specimens in these collections are small, they 
represent a very complete and highly valuable series, and are 
especially useful for study, and comparison with the other 
states of Brazil. 
