CHAP. 7. (6.)—THE BEECH.
The acorn of the beech [Note] is similar in appearance to a kernel,
enclosed in a shell of triangular shape. The leaf is thin and
one of the very lightest, is similar in appearance to that of the
poplar, and turns yellow with remarkable rapidity. From the
middle of the leaf, and upon the upper side of it, there mostly
shoots a little green berry, with a pointed top. [Note] The beech is
particularly agreeable to rats and mice; and hence it is, that
where this tree abounds, those creatures are sure to be plentiful also. The leaves are also very fattening for dormice,
and good for thrushes too. Almost all trees bear an average
crop but once in two years; this is the case with the beech
more particularly.
