7 
able circumstances; it is quite conceivable that this might simply 
be dissolved awav by a careful alkaline treatment, in which case a 
very pure rubber indeed might be obtained. But it is impossible 
to devise an efficient treatment of this kind without a very com- 
plete knowledge of the bark to be operated upon. 
The first step towards the desired end is therefore obviously a 
thorough chemical examination of the bark referred to in the enquiry, 
India Rubber Trades Journal. September, 29th j 902. 
LAGOS SILK RUBBER IN TRINIDAD, 
Mr. Hart writes that he has been testing the value of the 
rubber fluids, latex or milk of young trees of Funtumia elastica 
Stapf, at the Experiment Station at St. Clair, and has found excel- 
lent rubber material produced by trees a little more than three 
years planted The latex of Funtumia africana Stapf. has also 
been tested, and although found to produce a certain amount of 
rubber material, yet it is sticky, soft, and decidedly inferior to the 
produce of Funtumia elastica. It is possible, however, that its 
quality may improve with the increased age of the trees, as is the 
cpse with the Central American rubber tree ( Castilloa elastica). 
Specimens of the rubber made have been sent to an expert in 
England for examination and report. The rubber produced by 
Funtumia elastica is solid and elastic, resembling “Para” rubber 
in appearance and probably equalling it in quality. 
1 he presence of trees of the inferior Funtumia africana , at the 
Experiment Station is of importance as a warning guide as to what 
should or should not be planted. The two species were recently 
determined at Kew from specimens grown at the Trinidad Station. 
The Agricultural News, Oct. 25, rg02. 
ANNUAL REVIEW OF RUBBER MARKET FOR 
1901 . 
Kramrisch & Cos' (Liverpool and London) Annual Review 
of the Rubber Market for the Year 1901. 
During 1901 the Rubber Market has not been characterized by 
heavy or exceptional fluctuations; it was again not a particularly 
satisfactory one for holders and importers of the leading grades, and 
although trade remained exceedingly active throughout the year, 
the values of all grades of Rubber at the close are less than a year 
ago, and Fine Para shows a further recession of 3^/ per lb. and 
other grades in proportion. The bulk of the stocks of mediums 
has gradually been exhausted, although it must be admitted that 
the prices realised were exceptionally low and showed an enormous 
loss to the importers or holders, and even the more recent imports 
were disposed of at prices which not alone showed no profit, but 
in most instances the prices realised show a considerable loss. The 
Imports of important medium grades have fallen off considerably. 
