It is not yet ascertained from experience, how long a tree may be tapped with success. -- But there are instances among old settlers on the North river of trees being tapped for 50 years, and still continue to yield their sap in season, the same as new trees ; and it is even asserted by persons of some experience, that these trees become more valuable, yielding a sap of a richer quality the more they are tapped.

How far a careful cultivation in plantations may still increase the quantity and enrich the juices drawn from this valuable tree, remains to be ascertained by experiment.

The presumption, however, is in favour of still greater advantages from cultivation and art.

DESCRIPTION

SETTLEMENT

GENESEE COUNTRY,

STATE OF NEW-YORK,

SERIES OF LETTERS

GENTLEMAN TO HIS FRIEND.

J^EW-YORK:

Printed by T. & J. SWORDS, No. 99 Pearl-street

1799.

DESCEIPTION, &c.

LETTER I.

Dear Sir,

I with pleasure comply with your request ; and will endeavour to furnish you with such information relative to the soil, climate, situation, and present state of the Genesee Country, as may enable you to judge of the propriety of making it the place of your future residence. From the following plain statement of facts, which have fallen within the sphere of ray own observation, you may be able to form some idea of the rapid growth of this part of the United States. Any apology for the plainness of , the style I consider unnecessary. It is useful information you are in quest of, and such only I shall attempt to impart.