tree itself can
scarcely be doubted, but the secondary applications of which they are
capable, give reason to suppose that these also were contemplated in
their formation. The consideration of the means by which they are
formed, and the direct consequences of their formation on the air, by
abstracting certain elements from it, and supplying others, belong to
the subject of leaves; it is the object of the present paper to view
them as formed, and to show their amazing utility.

The mechanical properties of the stems of trees, both exogenous and
endogenous, render them extremely serviceable to mankind. The uses to
which a single species of plant may be put are numerous and important,
of which the reed (arundo phragmites) is an example, for after the
root has assisted in binding and consolidating the soil, the stem is
susceptible of the most varied applications[A].

In a low state of civilization the palm, or a palm-like grass,
supplies all that man requires; of the former of which, the _Mauritia
flexuosa_, or sago-palm of the Oronooko, and still more the _cocos
nucifera_, or cocoa-nut palm; and of the latter, the bamboo (_bambusa
arundinacea_, and other species) are proofs. The bamboo suffices for
all the needs of the humbler Chinese; even their paper, as well as
their abodes, are made of it; and from the materials furnished by the
cocoa-nut tree, not merely food, as shall be afterwards noticed, but
larger and more elegant houses, with all their appurtenances, are
constructed at Goa and other places. The obligations of the Guaraons
to the _Mauritia flexuosa_ cannot be expressed[B]. In proportion as
man rises in civilization, the importance of timber becomes greater,
being a material for which no adequate substitute can be found. It
combines lightness with strength, elasticity with firmness, and
possesses in many instances a durability rivalling, or even
surpassing, that of the rocks yielded to us by the solid substance of
the globe. The adaptation of timber to the numerous wants of civil
life is too familiar to require exposition; but in addition to all the
ends it serves in these points, we have an interesting view presented
to us in considering what a vast quantity of timber is required for
the construction of our shipping, from the countless boats and small
craft employed in our coasting trade up to the larger ships, which are
so many floating towns or communities. These conduce to the
accomplishment of objects of th