Hence, we must infer that the proper time for felling the tree is when the conditions are such that the rapid decay of a new growth of wood is impossible; and this I have found by experiment to be in early summer, after the sap has ascended the tree, but before any new growth of wood has been formed.  The new growth of the previous season is now well matured, has become hard and firm, and will not decay.  On the contrary, the tree being cut when such new growth has not well matured, decay soon takes place, and the value of the timber is destroyed.  The effect of this cutting and use of timber under the wrong conditions can be seen all around us.  In the timbers of the bridges, in the trestlework and ties of railroads and in the piling of the wharves will be found portions showing rapid decay, while other portions are yet firm and in sound condition.

Much more might be said in the explanation of this subject, but not wishing to extend the subject to an improper length, I will close.  I would, however, say in conclusion that persons who have the opportunities and the inclination can verify the truth of a portion, at least, of what I have stated, in a simple manner and in a short time; for instance, by cutting two or three young fir or spruce saplings, say about six inches in diameter, mark them when cut, and also mark the stumps by driving pegs marked to correspond with the trees.  Continue this monthly for the space of about one year, and note the difference in the wood, which should be left out and exposed to the weather until seasoned.

C.W.  HASKINS.

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RAISING FERNS FROM SPORES.

[Illustration:  1, PAN; 2, BELL GLASS; 3, SMALL POTS AND LABELS.]

This plan, of which I give a sketch, has been in use by myself for many years, and most successfully.  I have at various times given it to growers, but still I hear of difficulties.  Procure a good sized bell-glass and an earthenware pan without any holes for drainage.  Prepare a number of small pots, all filled for sowing, place them inside the pan, and fit the glass over them, so that it takes all in easily.  Take these filled small pots out of the pan, place them on the ground, and well water them with boiling water to destroy all animal and vegetable life, and allow them to get perfectly cold; use a fine rose.  Then taking each small pot separately, sow the spores on the surface and label them; do this with the whole number, and then place them in the pan under the bell-glass.  This had better be done in a room, so that nothing foreign can grow inside.  Having arranged the pots and placed the glass over them, and which should fit down upon the pan with ease, take a clean sponge, and tearing it up pack the pieces round the outside of the glass, and touching the inner side of the pan all round.  Water this with cold water, so that the sponge is saturated.  Do this whenever required,