“Those who come first (our ancestors) are the young people, and have the least experience. We have added to their experience the experience of many centuries; and, therefore, as far as experience goes, are wiser, and more capable of forming an opinion than they were.”

20, Limes Grove, Lewisham,
May 14th, 1875.

CONTENTS.

CHAPTER I.
On the Nature and Properties of Timber[Page 1]
CHAPTER II.
On the Gradual Rise and Development of Dry Rot[14]
CHAPTER III.
On Felling Timber[51]
CHAPTER IV.
On Seasoning Timber by Natural Methods, viz. Hot and Cold Air; Fresh and Salt Water; Vapour; Smoke; Steam; Boiling; Charring and Scorching, &c.[63]
CHAPTER V.
On Seasoning Timber by Patent Processes, &c.[105]
CHAPTER VI.
On the Means of Preventing Dry Rot in Modern Houses[171]
CHAPTER VII.
On the Means of Preservation of Wooden Bridges, Jetties, Piles, Harbour Works, &c., from the Ravages of the Teredo navalis and other Sea-worms[203]
CHAPTER VIII.
On the Destruction of Woodwork in Hot Climates by the Termite or White Ant, Woodcutter, Carpenter Bee, &c.; and the Means of Preventing the Same[240]
CHAPTER IX.
On the Causes of Decay in Furniture, Wood Carvings, &c.; and the Means of Preventing and Remedying the Effects of such Decay[262]
CHAPTER X.
Summary of Curative Processes[283]
CHAPTER XI.
General Remarks and Conclusion[288]
Index[295]

ILLUSTRATIONS.