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[Page 2]
& grows some times to a small tree. Swims in water. Its bark is a strong astringent; as is also the bark of almost all the trees in the colony.
Xylomatum. Grows to a small tree. An inhabitant of rocky ground. Has been a little used. Swims in water.
Metrosideros citrina & M. angustifolia being recently got, I did not try whether they would swim or not, but to all appears the latter will swim. I have just run the plane over them in some parts, in order that you might view the grain without any farther trouble. I have left the bark upon them, which will give you a better idea of the whole. You will perceive that a gum exudes from between the bark & the wood, whose quality you may also perceive. In short, though I might have given you better specimens of some I have sent them in such a manner as will furnish you with the most observations, as what will be fit for utility or not.
The bark of Myrtus australis when recent, is a strange astringent, of a spicy bitter taste.
That species of Mimosa from your Herbarium appears to be the same as that which is said to resemble Lignum vitae, & which has been lately ordered by the Governor to be sent to England by the Glatton. It is said to grow near Georges river. I am afraid it is inferior to Lignum vitae & I think to Myrtus australis.