which possesses the characteristic Properties of Tannin. 145 
position, every economy in such an article should be most 
rigidly observed. 
But for the present, I intend to relinquish this subject to 
such as may consider it worthy of attention ; whilst, as I 
have already stated, I entertain very sanguine expectations, 
that eventually it will prove economically useful ; and should 
any be inclined to pursue the inquiry, I would recommend 
particular attention to those processes which relate to the 
roasted vegetable substances, and to peat. 
Almost any refuse vegetable matter, such as twigs, dead 
leaves, &c. will serve for the former ; whilst the latter, as I 
have shewn, does not require to be roasted, and in many, 
especially the northern counties, peat is found in such abun- 
dance, that but a small proportional quantity is consumed in 
the only useful way to which it has hitherto been applied, 
namely, fuel. 
Before I conclude this Paper I shall also observe, 
that the experiments which have been described, must be 
regarded only as a mere sketch of that which may be 
performed, whilst the facts which have been ascertained re- 
specting the resins, balsams, gum resins, and gums, serve 
to prove, that much may be expected from regular che- 
mical examinations of these bodies. But such investigations, 
in order that science may truly be promoted, should be 
strictly regular: that is, they should not be taken up in a 
desultory manner, but these substances should be compa- 
ratively and systematically examined with all the accuracy 
which can be employed in the present state of chemical 
knowledge ; for as this knowledge concerning the composition 
MDCCCVI. U 
