■17- 
of maple (fig* 8). 
The fact that the most conspicuous stand of almost 
pure hemlock forest is to be found on the north slope of the 
first range within about 10G0 m- of the shore is probably 
to be accounted for by climatic conditions, rather than by 
differences in character of soil. The present composition 
of the hemlock climax has undoubtedly existed for centuries. 
In other words, the forest as a whole is in equilibrium as 
regards the relative numbers of the component tree species 
at a given altitude. A casual observation of the stages of 
succession in a windfall area, might lead one to think that 
maple should be the predominant tree (fig. 9). For this 
reason it seemed necessary to consider carefully such 
questions as the rate of growth, habit, shade tolerance, etc. 
of the more important species, and the relationship of their 
development, as shown by quadrat studies. 
1. COlf SID .SHAT ION OF INDIVIDUAL SPSCIiiS. 
T3UGA CANADi&NSIS (hemlock).- This species continues 
to grow in diameter many years after its top has leached the 
crown of the forest, the result being that the stand consists 
of individuals with great diversity in their ages. Sapling 
stages are quite common, though their growth is often vory 
slow. The tolerance of all stages for weak light explains 
