MANCINELLA. 25 / 
dew and rain which fall from its leaves are im- 
pregnated with poison, and that it is death to sleep 
beneath its shade. Ihese accounts, however, are 
without foundation, since M. IDu Tour informs us, 
that he has rested several times under this tree 
during more than two hours, and once while it 
rained, without having experienced any ill effects 
from its shade. Nevertheless, he thinks it very 
probable that the air in its immediate neighbour- 
hood may not be whojesoffie, and therefore cautions 
the traveller against passing a night beneath the 
tree, or even sleeping within its influence in the 
day-time. 
The mancinella is common in the West Indies, 
and on the American continent, where it is said to 
grow near the sea. It is singular that, in this 
situation, the trees are often surrounded by a vast 
number of crabs, for whose attendance it is very 
difficult to account, since they certainly are not 
attracted by t)ie fruit, as that, from its poisonous 
quality, is not eaten by any animal. The wood of 
this tree is very durable, and of a beautiful grain. 
It is of an ash colour, veined with brown, and varie- 
gated with yellow, Different kinds of furniture, 
and particularly tables, are made of it, which are 
esteemed for their beauty, as the wood takes a high 
polish, and is veined like marble. 
The best antidote against the poison of this tree 
is sweet oil ; though some recommend a goblet of sea- 
water, taken immediately, as an effectual remedy. 
vol. hi. 
$ 
