THE Method propounded, §. 1. The Garden-Bean, dissected, 2. The two Coats Described, 3, 4. The Foramen in the outer Coat, 5, 6. What generally observable of the Covers of the Seed, 7. The Organical Parts of the Seed, 8. The Main Body, 9, 10. The Radicle in the Bean, 11. In other Seeds, 12. The Plume, 13, 14. The Similary Parts, 15. The Cuticle, 16, 17. The Parenchyma, 18, 19, 20. The Inner Body, 21, to 29. No solid Account yet given, of Vegetation, 30. The Coats how in common subservient to the Vegetation of the Seed, 31. The Foramen, of what use herein, 32. The use of the Inner Coat, 33. Of the Cuticle, 34. Of the Parenchyma, 35. Of the Seminal Root, 36. How the Radicle first becomes a Root, 37. By what means, the Plume all this while preserved, 38. How after the Root the Plume vegetates, 39. How the Lobes, 40. But not in all Seeds, 41. That they do in most, demonstrated, 42, 43, 44. What hence resolvable, 45. The use of the Dissimilar Leaves, 46, to the end.

CHAP. II.

Of the Root.

THis also to be Dissected, §. 1. The Skin hereof, its Original, 2. The Cortical Body, its Original, 3. Texture, 4. Pores, 5. Proportions, 6. The Lignous Body, its Original, 7. Texture, 8. Proportions, 9. The Insertment, its Original, 10. Pores, 11. Number and Size, 12. A fuller description hereof, with that of the Osculations of the Lignous Body, 13, 14, 15. The Pith, its original sometimes from the Seed, 16. Sometimes from the Barque, 17. Its Pores, 18, 19. Proportions, 20. Fibres of the Lignous Body therein, 21. The Pith of those Fibres, 22. How the Root grows, and the use of the Skin, Cortical and Lignous Body thereto, 23. How it groweth in length, 24. By what means it descends, 25. How it grows in breadth, 26. And the Pith, how thus framed, 27. The use of the Pith, 27. Of the Insertment, 28. The joynt service of all the Parts, 29, 30, 31.

CHAP. III.

Of the Trunk.

THE Coarcture, §. 1. The Skin, its original, 2. The original of the Cortical Body, 3. Of the Lignous, 4. Of the Insertment and Pith, 5. The Latitudinal Shooting of the Lignous Body, wherein observable, 6, 7. The Pores of the Lignous Body, where and how most remarkable, 8. A lesser sort of Pores, 9. A third sort only visible through a Microscope. Observed in Wood or Charcoal, 10. Observed in the Fibres of the Trunks of Herbs, 11. The Insertions, where more visible, 12, 13. Their Weftage with the Lignous Body, 14. The smaller Insertions, only visible through a Microscope, 15. No Valves in a Plant, 16. The Ranks of the Pores of the Insertions, 17. The Pores of the Pith, 18, 19, 20. How the Trunk ascends, 21. The disposition of its Parts consequent to that Ascent, 22. Consequent to the different Nature of the Sap, 23. The effects of the said Differences, 24, to 28. Which way, and how the Sap ascends, 29, to the end.

The Appendix.

Of Trunk-Roots and Claspers.

Trunk-Roots of two kinds, §. 1, 2. Claspers of one kind, 3. The Uses of both, 4, to the end.

CHAP. IV.

Of the Bud, Branch, and Leaf.

THE Parts of the Germen and Branch the same with those of the Trunk, §. 1, 2. The manner of their growth, 3. How nourished, 4. And the use of Knots, 5. How secur’d, 6. The Parts of a Leaf, 7. The Positions of the Fibres of the Stalks of Leaves, 8. For what Uses, 9, 10. The visible cause of the different circumference of Leaves, 11. And of their being flat, 12. And filamentous, 13. The Foulds of Leaves, their Kinds and Use, 14, 15, 16. The Protections of Leaves, 17. The use of the Leaf, 18, to the end.

The Appendix.

Of Thorns, Hairs and Globulets.

Thorns of two Kinds; the Lignous, §. 1. The Cortical, 2. An argument of the Magnetick Descent of the Cortical Body, 3. Hairs of divers Kinds, 4, 5. Their Use, 6. Globulets of two Kinds, 7, 8.

CHAP. V.

Of the Flower.

ITs three Parts, §. 1. The Impalement, of divers kinds, 2. Their use, 3, 4. The Foliation, its nature, 5. Foulds, 6. Protections, 7. Downs, 8, 9. Globulets, 10. Its Use, 11, 12. The Attire of two kinds. The Description of the first, 13, 14, 15, 16. Of the other, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21. Their use, 22, to the end.

CHAP. VI.

Of the Fruit.

THE Vital Parts of all, the same, §. 1. The Number, Description, and Original of the Parts of an Apple, 2. Of a Pear, 3, 4. Of a Plum, 5, 6, 7. Of a Nut, 8. Of a Berry, 9. The use of the Fruit, 10, to the end.

CHAP. VII.

Of the Seed in its State of Generation.

WHat here further observed, not in the First Chapter, §. 1. The Case, its Figures, 2. The outer Coat, its Figures, 3. Various Surface, 4. And Mucilages, 5. The nature of the outer Coat, 6. Its Apertures, 7. Next to which the Radicle usually placed, 8. The Original of the Outer Coat, 9. The Original of the Inner, 10. Its Nature, 11, 12. The Essential Parts of a Plant, 13, 14. The Secondine, 15. The Colliquamentum herein, 16. The Navel Fibres, 17. In the Generation of the Seed, the Sap first prepared in the Seed-Branch, 18, 19. Next in the inner Coat, 20. With the help of the Outer, 21, 22. The use of the Secondine, 23. Of the Ramulets of the Seed-Branch, 24. Of their Inosculation, 25. How the Colliquamentum becometh a Parenchyma, 26, to the end.

THE ANATOMY OF PLANTS, BEGUN. With a General Account of Vegetation, Founded thereupon.

CHAP. I.

Of the Seed in its State of Vegetation.

EING to speak of Plants; and, as far as Inspection, and consequent Reason, may conduct, to enquire into the visible Constitutions, and Uses of their several Parts: I choose that Method, which, to the best advantage, may suit with what we have to say hereon. And that is the Method of Nature her self, in her continued Series of Vegetations; proceeding from the Seed sown, to the formation of the Root, Trunk, Branch, Leaf, Flower, Fruit, and last of all, of the Seed also to be sown again; all which, we shall, in the same order, particularly speak of.

2. §. The Essential Constitutions of the said Parts are in all Plants the same: But for Observation, some are more convenient; in which I shall chiefly instance. And first of all, for the Seed, we choose the great Garden-Bean.

3. §. If then we take a Bean and dissect it, we shall find it cloathed with a doubled Vest or Coat. These Coats, while the Bean is yet green, are separable, and easily distinguished. Or in an old one, after it hath lay’n two or three days in a mellow Soil; or been soaked as long a time in Water: as in Tab. 1. Tab. 1. f. 2. When ’tis dry, they cleave so closely together, that the Eye not before instructed, will judge them but one; the inner Coat (which is of the most rare contexture) so far shrinking up, as to seem only the roughness of the outer, somewhat resembling Wafers under Maquaroons.

4. §. The Inner Coat, in its Natural State, is every where twice, and in some places, thrice as thick, as the Outer. Next to the Radicle, which I shall presently describe, it is six or seven times thicker; and encompasses the Radicle round about, as in the same Figure appears. Tab. 1. f. 2.

5. §. At the thicker end of the Bean, in the outer Coat, a very small Foramen presents it self, even to the bare Eye. In Dissection ’tis found to terminate against the point of that Part which I call the Radicle. Tab. 1. f. 1–2. It is of that capacity, as to admit a small Virginal Wyer; and is most of all conspicuous in a green Bean. Especially, if a little magnified with a good Spectacle-Glass. This Foramen is not a hole casually made, or by the breaking off of the Stalk; but designedly formed, for the uses hereafter mentioned. It may be observed not only in the great Garden-Bean, but likewise in the other kinds; in the French-Bean very plainly; in Pease, Lupines, Vetches, Lentiles, and other Pulse ’tis also found; and in many Seeds not reckoned of this kindred, as in that of Fœnugreek, Medica Tornata, Goats-Rue, and others: In many of which, ’tis so very small, as scarcely, without the help of Glasses to be discovered; and in some, not without cutting off part of the Seed, which otherwise would intercept the light hereof.

6. §. That this Foramen is truly permeable, even in old Setting-Beans, and the other Seeds above named, appears upon their being soaked for some time in Water. For then, taking them out, and crushing them a little, many small bubles will alternately arise and break upon it.

7. §. Of all Seeds which have thick or hard Covers, it is also observable, That they have the same likewise Perforated, as above said, or in some other manner. And accordingly, although the Coats of such Seeds as are lodg’d in Shells or Stones, being thin, are not visibly perforated; yet the Stones and Shells themselves always are; as in Chap. 7. shall be seen how. To which Chapter, what is farther observable, either as to the nature and number of the Covers of the Seed, I also refer.

8. §. The Coats of the Bean being stripp’d off, the proper Seed shews it self; The parts whereof it is composed, are three; sc. the Main Body, and two more, appendant to it; which we may call the Three Organical Parts of the Bean.

9. §. The Main Body is not one entire piece, but always divided, lengthwise, into two halves or Lobes, which are both joyn’d together at the Basis of the Bean. These Lobes in dry Beans, are but difficultly separated or observ’d; Tab. 1. f. 2, 3. but in young ones, especially boil’d, they easily slip asunder.

10. §. Some very few Seeds are divided, not into two Lobes, but into more; as that of Cresses into Six. Tab. 1. f. 4. f. 5. And some are not at all divided, but entire; as the Grains of Corn. Excepting which few, all other Seeds, even the smallest, are divided, like as the Bean, into just two Lobes. Whereof, though in most Seeds, because of their minuteness, we cannot by dissection be inform’d; yet otherwise, we easily may, as in this Chapter shall be seen.

11. §. At the Basis of the Bean, the two other Organical Parts stand appendent; by mediation whereof, the two Lobes meet and join together. The greater of these two Parts stands without the two Lobes, and upon divesting the Bean of its Coats, is immediately visible. Tab. 1. f. 2. & 3 a ’Tis of a white colour, and more glossie than the Main Body, especially when the Bean is young. In the Bean, and many other Seeds, ’tis situated somewhat above the thicker end, as you hold the Bean in its most proper posture for growth. In Oak-Kernels, which we call Acorns, Apple-Kernels, Almonds, and many other Seeds, it stands prominent just from the end; Tab. 1. f. 6 c. the Basis and the End being in these the same, but in the Bean divers.

12 §. This Part is found not only in the Bean, and the Seeds above mentioned; but in all others: being that, which upon the Vegetation of the Seed, becomes the Root of the Plant; which therefore may be called the Radicle: by which, I mean the Materials, abating the Formality, of a Root. In Corn, it is that Part, which Malsters, upon its shooting forth, call the Come. ’Tis not easie to be observed, saving in some few Seeds, amongst which, that of the Bean is the most fair and ample of all I have seen. But that of some other Seeds, is, in proportion, greater; Tab. 1. f. 7 e. as of Fœnugreek, which is full as big as one of its Lobes.

13. §. The lesser of the two said Appendents lies occult between the two Lobes of the Bean, by separation whereof only it is to be seen. ’Tis enclos’d in two small Cavities, form’d in the Lobes for its reception. Tab. 1. f. 3 b. Its colour comes near to that of the Radicle; and it is founded upon the Basis thereof, having a quite contrary production, sc. towards the Cone of the Bean; as being that very Part, which, in process, becomes the Body or Trunk, of the Plant. In Corn, it is that Part, which after the Radicle is sprouted forth, or come, shoots towards the smaller end of the Grain; and by many Malsters, is called the Acrospire.

14. §. This Part is not, like the Radicle, an entire Body, but divided, at its loose end, into divers pieces, all very closely couched together, as Feathers in a Bunch; for which reason it may be called the Plume. They are so close, that only two or three of the outmost are at first seen: but upon a nice and curious separation of these, the more interiour still may be discovered. In the Bean, this may be done: but in very few other Seeds; because of the extreme smallness of the Plume. Now as the Plume is that Part which becomes the Trunk of the Plant, so these pieces are so many true, and already formed, though not display’d Leaves, intended for the said Trunk, and foulded up in the same plicature, wherein upon the sprouting of the Bean, they afterwards appear. In a French Bean, and especially in the larger white Kind, or in the great Indian Phaseolus, the two outmost are very fair and elegant. Tab. 1. f. 8 b. In the great Garden-Bean two extraordinary small Plumes often, if not always, stand one on either side the great one now describ’d: From which, in that they differ in nothing save in their size, I therefore only here just take notice of them. And these three Parts, sc. the Main Body, the Radicle, and the Plume, are concurrent to the making up of a Seed; and no more than these.

15. §. Having thus taken a view of the Organical Parts of the Bean, and other Seeds; let us next examine the Similary, sc. those whereof the Organical are compos’d: a distinct observation of which, for a clear understanding of the Vegetation of the Seed, and of the whole Plant arising thence is requisite: To obtain which, we must proceed in our Anatomy.

16. §. Dissecting a Bean then, the first Part occurring is its Cuticle. The Eye and first Thoughts, suggest it to be only a more dense and glossy Superficies; but better enquiry discovers it a real Cuticle. ’Tis so exquisitely thin, and for the most part, so firmly continuous with the Body of the Bean, that it cannot, except in some small Rag, be distinctly seen, which, by carrying your Knife aslant into the Bean, and then very gently bearing upward what you have cut, will separate, and shew it self transparent. This Cuticle is not only spread upon the Convex of the Lobes, but also on their Flats, where they are contiguous, extending it self likewise upon both the Radicle and Plume, and so over the whole Bean.

17. §. This Part, though it be so far common with the Coats of the Bean, as to be like those, an Integument; yet are we in a quite different Notion to conceive of it: For whereas the Coats, upon setting the Bean, do only administer the Sap, and, as being superseded from their Office, then die; as shall be seen: this, on the contrary, with the Organical Parts of the Bean, is nourished, augmented, and by a real Vegetation co-extended.

18. §. Next to the Cuticle, we come to the Parenchyma it self; the Part throughout which the Inner Body, whereof we shall speak anon, is disseminated; for which reason I call it the Parenchyma. Not that we are so meanly to conceive of it, as if (according to the stricter sense of that word,) it were a meer concreted Juyce. For it is a Body very curiously organiz’d, consisting of an infinite number of extreme small Bladders; as in Tab. 1. is apparent. Tab. 1. f. 9. The Surface hereof is somewhat dense, but inwardly, ’tis of a laxer Contexture. If you view it in a Microscope, or with a very good Spectacle-Glass, it hath some similitude to the Pith, while sappy in the Roots and Trunks of Plants; and that for good reason, as in Ch. 2. shall be seen. This is best seen in green Beans.

19. §. This Part would seem by its colour to be peculiar to the Lobes of the Bean; but as is the Cuticle, so is this also, common both to the Radicle and Plume; that is, the Parenchyma or Pulp of the Bean, as to its essential substance, is the same in all three. The reason why the colour of the Plume, and especially of the Radicle, which are white, is so different from that of the Lobes, which are green, may chiefly depend upon their being more compact and dense, and thence their different Tinctures. And therefore the Lobes themselves, which are green while the Bean is young; yet when it is old and dry, become whitish too. And in many other Seeds, as Acorns, Almonds, the Kernels of Apples, Plums, Nuts, &c. the Lobes, even fresh and young, are pure white as the Radicle it self.

20. §. But although the Parenchyma be common, as is said, to all the Organical Parts; yet in very differing proportions. In the Plume, where it is proportionably least, it maketh about three Fifths of the whole Plume; in the Radicle, it maketh above five Sevenths of the whole Radicle; and in each Lobe, is so far over-proportionate, as to make at least nine Tenths of the whole Lobe.

21. §. By what hath been said, that the Parenchyma or Pulp is not the only constituting Part, besides the Cuticle, is imply’d: there being another Body, of an essentially different substance, embosom’d herein: which may be found not only in the Radicle and Plume, but also in the Lobes themselves, and so in the whole Bean.

22. §. This Inner Body appears very plain and conspicuous in cutting the Radicle athwart, and so proceeding by degrees towards the Plume, through both which it runneth in a large and strait Trunk. Tab. 1. f. 10, 11, & 12. In the Lobes, being it is there in so very small proportion, ’tis difficultly seen, especially towards their Verges. Yet if with a sharp Knife you smoothly cut the Lobes of the Bean athwart, divers small Specks, Tab. 1. f. 13. of a different colour from that of the Parenchyma, standing therein all along in a Line, may be observ’d; which Specks are the Terminations of the Branches of this Inner Body.

23. §. For this Inner body, as it is existent in every Organical Part of the Bean; so is it, with respect to each Part, most regularly distributed. In a good part of the Radicle ’tis one entire Trunk; towards the Basis thereof, ’tis divided into three main Branches; Tab. 1. f. 14. the middlemost runneth directly into the Plume; the other two on either side of it, after a little space, pass into the Lobes; where the said Branches dividing themselves into other smaller; and those into more, and smaller again, are terminated towards the Verges of each Lobe; in which manner the said Inner Body being distributed it becomes in each Lobe a true and perfect Root.

24. §. Of this Seminal Root, as now we’ll call it, from the Description here given, it is further observable; That the two main Branches hereof; in which the several Ramifications in each Lobe are all united, are not committed into the Seminal Trunk of the Plume, nor yet stand at right angles with That and the Radicle, and so with equal respect towards them both: but being produced through part of the Parenchyma of the Radicle, are at last united therein to the main Trunk, and make acute Angles therewith: as may be seen in the same. f. 14. Tab. 1. f. 14.

25. §. This Seminal Root being so tender, cannot be perfectly excarnated, (as may the Vessels in the Parts of an Animal) by the most accurate Hand. Yet by dissection begun and continu’d, as is above declared, its whole frame and distribution may be easily observ’d. Again, if you take the Lobe of a Bean, and lengthwise pare off its Parenchyma by degrees, and in extreme thin slices, many Branches of the Seminal Root, (which by the other way of Dissection were only noted by so many Specks) both as they are fewer about the Basis of the Bean, and more numerous towards its Verges, in some good distinction and entireness will appear. For this you must have new Beans: or else soaked in Water, or buryed for some time.

26. §. As the Inner Body is branched out in the Lobes, so is it in the Plume: For if you cut the Plume athwart, and from the Basis proceed along the Body thereof, you’ll therein find, first, one large Trunk or Branch, and after four or five very small Specks round about it, which are the terminations of so many lesser Branches therewith distributed to the several parts of the Plume. Tab. 1. f. 11 c. The distribution of the Inner Body, as it is continuous throughout all the Organical Parts of the Bean, is represented, Tab. 1. f. 14.

27. §. This Inner Body is, by dissection, best observable in the Bean and great Lupine. In other larger Pulse it shews likewise some obscure Marks of it self. But in no other Seeds, which I have observed, though of the greatest size: as of Apples, Plums, Nuts, &c. is there any clear appearance hereof, upon dissection, saving in the Radicle and Plume; the reason of which is partly from its being, in most Seeds, so extraordinary little; partly from its Colour, which in most Seeds, is the same with that of the Parenchyma it self, and so not distinguishable from it.

28. §. Yet in a Gourd-Seed, the whole Seminal Root, not only its Main Branches, Tab. 1. f. 15. c. but also the Sub-divisions and Inosculations of the lesser ones, are without any dissection, upon the separation of the Lobes, on their contiguous Flats immediately apparent.

And as to the existence of this Seminal Root, what Dissection cannot attain, yet an ocular inspection in hundreds of other Seeds, even the smallest, will demonstrate; as in this Chapter shall be seen how.

29. §. In the mean time, let us only take notice; That when we say, every Plant hath its Root, we reckon short. For every Plant hath really two, though not contemporary, yet successive Roots; its Original or Seminal-Root within the Lobes or Main Body of its Seed; and its Plant-Root, which the Radicle becometh in its growth: the Parenchyma of the Seed, being in some resemblance, that to the Seminal Root at first, which the Mould is to the Plant-Root afterwards; and the Seminal Root being that to the Plant-Root, which the Plant-Root is to the Trunk. For our better understanding whereof, having taken a view of the several Parts of a Bean, as far as Dissection conducts; we will next briefly enquire into the Use of the said Parts, and in what manner they are the Fountain of Vegetation, and concurrent to the being of the future Plant.

An Account of the Vegetation of the Seed. 30. §. THE GENERAL Cause of the growth of a Bean, or other Seed, is Fermentation. That is, the Bean lying in the Mould, and a moderate access of some moisture, partly dissimilar, and partly congenerous, being made, a gentle Fermentation thence ariseth. By which, the Bean swelling, and the Sap still encreasing, and the Bean continuing still to swell, the work thus proceeds: as is the usual way of explicating. But that there is simply a Fermentation, and so a sufficient supply of Sap is not enough: but that this Fermentation, and the Sap wherein ’tis made, should be under a various Government, by divers Parts thereto subservient, is also requisite; and as the various preparation of the Aliment in an Animal, equally necessary: the particular process of the Work according whereto, we find none undertaking to declare.

31. §. Let us look upon a Bean then, as a piece of Work so fram’d and set together, as to declare a Design for the production of a Plant; which, upon its lying in some convenient Soil, is thus effected. First of all, the Bean being enfoulded round in its Coats, the Sap wherewith it is fed, must of necessity pass through these: By which means, it is not only in a proportionate quantity, and by degrees; but also in a purer body; and possibly not without some Vegetable Tincture, transmitted to the Bean. Whereas, were the Bean naked, the Sap must needs be, as over-copious, so but crude and immature, as not being filtred through so fine a Cotton as the Coats be. And as they have the use of a Filtre to the transient Sap; so of a Vessel to that which is still deposited within them; being alike accommodated to the securer Fermentation hereof, as Bottles or Barrels are to Beer, or any other Fermentative Liquor.

32. §. And as the Fermentation is promoted by some Aperture in the Vessel; so have we the Foramen in the upper Coat also contrived. That if there should be need of some more Aiery Particles to excite the Fermentation; through this, they may obtain their Entry. Or, on the contrary, should there be any such Particles or Steams, as might damp the genuine proceeding thereof, through this again, they may have easie issue. Or if, by being over copious, they should become too high a Ferment; and so precipitate those soft and slow degrees, as are necessary to a due Vegetation. The said Aperture being that, as a common Pasport, here to the Sap, which what we call the Bung-hole of the Barrel, is to the new tunn’d Liquor.

33. §. And the Radicle being designed to shoot forth first, as presently shall be shew’d how; therefore is it distinctly surrounded with the Inner and more succulent Coat. That being thereby suppled on every side, its eruption may be the better promoted.

34. §. The Sap being passed through the Coats, it next enters the Body of the Bean; yet not indiscriminately neither; but, being filtred through the Outer Coat, and fermented in the Body of the Inner, is by mediation of the Cuticle, again more finely filtr’d, and so entereth the Parenchyma it self under a fourth Government.

35. §. Through which Part the Sap passing towards the Seminal Root, as through that which is of a more spatious content; besides the benefit it hath of a farther percolation, it will also find room enough for a more free and active fermenting and maturation herein. And being moreover, part of the true Body of the Bean, and so with its proper Seminalities or Tinctures copiously repleat; the Sap will not only find room, but also matter enough, by whose Energy its Fermentation will still be more advanced.

36. §. And the Sap being duly prepared here, it next passeth into all the Branches of the Seminal Root, and so under a fifth Government. Wherein how delicate ’tis now become, we may conceive by the proportion betwixt the Parenchyma and this Seminal Root; so much only of the best digested Sap being discharged from the whole Stock in that, as this will receive. And this, moreover, as the Parenchyma, with its proper Seminalities being endowed; the Sap for the supply of the Radicle, and of the young Root from thence, is duly prepared therein, and with its highest Tincture and Impregnation at last enriched.

37. §. The Sap being thus prepared in the Lobes of the Bean, ’tis thence discharg’d; and either into the Plume, or the Radicle, must forthwith issue. And since the Plume is a dependent on the Radicle; the Sap therefore ought first to be dispenced to this: which accordingly, is ever found to shoot forth before the Plume: and sometimes an inch or two in length. Now because the primitive course of the Sap into the Radicle, is thus requisite; therefore, by the frame of the Parts of the Bean is it also made necessary. The two main Branches of the Seminal Root, being produced, as is before observed, not into the Plume, but the Radicle. Now the Sap being brought as far as the Seminal Root, in either Lobe; and according to the conduct thereof continuing still to move: it must needs immediately issue into the same Part, Tab. 1. f. 14. whereinto the main Branches themselves do; that is, into the Radicle. By which Sap, thus bringing the several Tinctures of the Parts aforesaid with it, being now fed; it is no longer a meer Radicle, but is made also Seminal, and so becomes a perfect Root.

38. §. The Plume, all this while, lyes close and still. For the sake of which, chiefly it is, that the Bean and other Seeds are divided into Lobes, viz. That it might be warmly and safely lodged up between them, and so secur’d from the Injuries so tender a Part would sustain from the Mould; whereto, had the Main Body been entire, it must, upon the cleaving of the Coats, have lay’n contiguous.

39. §. But the Radicle being thus impregnated and shot into a Root; ’tis now time for the Plume to rouze out of its Cloysters, and germinate too: In order whereto, ’tis now fed from the Root, with laudable and sufficient Aliment. For as the Supplies and Motion of Sap were first made from the Lobes, towards the Root: so the Root being well shot into the Mould, and now receiving a new and more copious Sap from thence; the motion hereof must needs be stronger, and by degrees proceed in a contrary course, sc. from the Root toward the Plume: and, by the continuation of the Seminal Root, is directly conducted thereinto; by which being fed, it gradually enlarges and displays it self.

40. §. The course of the Sap thus turned, it issues, I say, in a direct Line from the Root into the Plume: but collaterally, into the Lobes also; sc. by those two aforesaid Branches which are obliquely transmitted from the Radicle into either Lobe. By which Branches the said Sap being disbursed back into all the Seminal Root, and from thence, likewise into the Parenchyma of the Lobes, they are both thus fed, and for some time augmenting themselves, really grow: as in Lupines is evident.

41. §. Yet is not this common to all Seeds. Some rot underground; as Corn; being of a laxer and less Oleous Substance, differing herein from most other Seeds; and being not divided into Lobes, but one entire thick Body. And some, although they continue firm, and are divided into Lobes, yet rise not; as the great Garden Bean. In which, therefore, it is observable, That the two Main Branches of the Lobes, in comparison with that which runs into the Plume, are but mean; Tab. 1. f. 14. and so insufficient to the feeding and vegetation of the Lobes; the Plume, on the contrary, growing so lusty, as to mount up without them.

42. §. Excepting a few of these Two Kinds, all other Seeds whatsoever, (which I have observed) besides that they continue firm; upon the Vegetation of the Plume, do mount also upwards, and advance above the Ground together with it; as all Seeds which spring up with one or more Dissimilar Leaves: These Dissimilar Leaves, for the most part Two, which first spring up, and are of a different shape from those that follow, being the very Lobes of the Seed, divided, expanded, and thus advanced.

43. §. The Impediments of our apprehension hereof are the Colour, Size and Shape of the Dissimilar Leaves. Notwithstanding, that they are nothing else but the Main Body of the Seed, how I came first to conceive, and afterwards to know it, was thus. First, I observed in general, that the Dissimilar Leaves, were never jagg’d, but even edg’d: And seeing the even verges of the Lobes of the Seed hereto respondent, I was apt to think, that those which were so like, might prove the same. Next descending to particular Seeds, I observed, first, of the Lupine; that, as to its Colour, advancing above the Ground, (as it useth to do) it was always changed into a perfect Green. And why might not the same by parity of Reason be inferred of other Seeds? That, as to its size, it grew but little bigger than when first set. Whence, as I discern’d (the Augmentation being but little) we here had only the two Lobes: Tab. 2. f. 1. So, (as some augmentation there was) I inferr’d the like might be, and that, in farther degrees, in other Seeds.

44. §. Next of the Cucumber-Seed, That, as to its Colour, often appearing above ground, in its primitive white, from white it turns to yellow, and from yellow to green; the proper colour of a Leaf. That, as to its size, though at its first arise, the Lobes were little bigger than upon setting; yet afterwards, as they chang’d their Colour, Tab. 2. f. 2. so their dimensions also, growing to a three-four-five-fold amplitude above their primitive size. But whereas the Lobes of the Seed, are in proportion, narrow, short and thick: how then come the Dissimilar Leaves, to be so exceeding broad, or long, and thin? The Question answers it self: For the Dissimilar Leaves, for that very reason are so thin, because so very broad or long; as we see many things, how much they are extended in length or breadth, so much they lose in depth, or grow more thin; which is that which here befalls the now effoliated Lobes. For being once dis-imprisoned from their Coats, and the course of the Sap into them, now more and more encreased; they must needs very considerably amplifie themselves: and from the manner wherein the Seminal Root is branched in them, that amplification cannot be in thickness, but in length or breadth. In both which, in some Dissimilar Leaves, ’tis very remarkable; Tab. 2. f. 3. especially in length, as in those of Lettice, Thorn-Apple, and others; whose Seeds, although very small, yet the Lobes of those Seeds growing up into Dissimilar Leaves, are extended an Inch, and sometimes more, in length. Though he that shall attempt to get a clear sight of the Lobes of Thorn-Apple, and some others, by Dissection, will find it no easie Task; yet is that which may be obtained; and in the Last Book shall be shew’d. From all which, and the observation of other Seeds, I at last found, that the Dissimilar Leaves of a young Plant, are nothing else but the Lobes or Main Body of its Seed. So that, as the Lobes did at first feed and impregnate the Radicle into a perfect Root; so the Root, being perfected, doth again feed, and by degrees amplifie each Lobe into a perfect Leaf.

45. §. The Original of the Dissimilar Leaves thus known, we understand, why some Plants have none; because the Seed either riseth not, as Garden-Beans, Corn, &c. Or upon rising, the Lobes are little alter’d, as Lupines, Pease, &c. Why, though the proper Leaves are often indented round; the Dissimilar like the Lobes are even-edg’d. Why, though the proper Leaves are often hairy, yet these are ever smooth. Why some have more Dissimilar Leaves than two, as Cresses, which have six, as the Ingenious Mr. Sharrock also observes. Hist. of the Prop. of Vege. The reason whereof is, because the Main Body is not divided into Two, but Six, distinct Lobes, as I have often counted. Why Radishes seem at first to have four, which yet after appear plainly two: because the Lobes of the Seed, have both a little Indenture, and are both plaited, one over the other. To which, other Instances might be added.

46. The use of the Dissimilar Leaves is, first, for the protection of the Plume; which being but young, and so but soft and tender, is provided with these, as a double Guard, one on either side of it. For this reason it is, that the Plume, in Corn, is trussed up within a membranous Sheath: and that of a Bean, cooped up betwixt a pair of Surfoyls: Tab. 3. But where the Lobes rise, there the Plume hath neither of them, being both needless.

47. §. Again, since the Plume, being yet tender, may be injur’d not only by the Aer, but also for want of Sap, the supplies from the Root being yet but slow and sparing; that the said Plume therefore, by the Dissimilar Leaves, may have the advantage likewise of some refreshment from Dew or Rain. For these having their Basis a little beneath that of the Plume, and expanding themselves on all sides of it, they often stand after Rain, like a Vessel of Water, continually soaking and suppling it, lest its new access into the Ayr, should shrivel it.

48. §. Moreover, that since the Dissimilar Leaves by their Basis intercept the Root and Plume, the greater and grosser part of the Sap, may be, by the way, deposited into those; and so the purest proceed into the yet but young and delicate Plume, as its fittest Aliment.

49. §. Lastly, we have here a demonstration of the being of the Seminal Root: which, since through the colour or smalness of the Seed, it could not by Dissection be observ’d, except in some few; Nature hath here provided us a way of viewing it in the now effoliated Lobes, not of one or two Seeds, but of hundreds; the Seminal Root visibly branching it self towards the Cone or Verges of the said Lobes, or now Dissimilar Leaves.

CHAP. II.

Of the ROOT.

AVING Examin’d and pursu’d the Degrees of Vegetation in the Seed, we find its two Lobes have here their utmost period: and, that having conveyed their Seminalities into the Radicle and Plume; these therefore, as the Root and Trunk of the Plant, still survive. Of these, in their order, we next proceed to speak; and first, of the Root: whereof, as well as of the Seed, we must by Dissection inform our selves.

2. §. In Dissection of a Root then, we shall find it with the Radicle, as the Parts of an Old Man with those of a Fœtus, substantially, one. The first Part occurring is its Skin, the Original whereof is from the Seed: For that extreme thin Cuticle which is spread over the Lobes of the Seed, and from thence over the Radicle, upon the shooting of the Radicle into a Root, is co-extended, and becomes its Skin.

3. §. The next Part is the Cortical Body. Which, when it is thin, is commonly called the Barque. The Original hereof, likewise is from the Seed; or the Parenchyma, which is there common both to the Lobes and Radicle, being by Vegetation augmented and prolonged into the Root, the same becomes the Parenchyma of the Barque. Tab. 2. f. 4.

4. §. The Contexture of this Parenchyma may be well illustrated by that of a Sponge, being a Body Porous, Dilative and Pliable. Its Pores, as they are innumerable, so, extream small. These Pores are not only susceptive of so much Moisture as to fill, but also to enlarge themselves, and so to dilate the Cortical Body wherein they are: which by the shriv’ling in thereof, upon its being expos’d to the Air, is also seen. In which dilatation, many of its Parts becoming more lax and distant, and none of them suffering a solution of their continuity; ’tis a Body also sufficiently pliable; that is to say, a most exquisitely fine-wrought Sponge.

5. §. The Extention of these Pores is much alike by the length and breadth of the Root; which from the shrinking up of the Cortical Body, in a piece of a cut Root, by the same dimensions, is argu’d.

6. §. The proportions of this Cortical Body are various: If thin, ’tis, as is said, called a Barque; and thought to serve to no other end, than what is vulgarly ascrib’d to a Barque; which is a narrow conceit. If a Bulky Body, in comparison with That within it, as in the young Roots of Cichory, Asparagus, &c. ’tis here, because the fairest, therefore taken for the prime Part; which, though, as to Medicinal use, it is; yet, as to the private use of the Plant, not so. The Colour hereof, though it be originally white, yet in the continued growth of the Root, divers Tinctures, as yellow in Dock, red in Bistort, are thereinto introduced.

7. §. Next within this Part stands the Lignous Body: This Lignous Body, lyeth with all its parts, so far as they are visible, in a Circle or Ring. Tab. 2. f. 4. b. Yet are there divers extreme small Fibres thereto parallel, usually mixed with the Cortical Body; and by the somewhat different colour of the said Cortical Body where they stand, may be noted. These Fibres the Cortical Body, and Skin, altogether, properly make the Barque. The Original of this Lignous Body, as of the two former, is from the Seed; or, the Seminal Roots of both the Lobes, being united in the Radicle, and with its Parenchyma co-extended, is here in the Root of the Plant, the Lignous Body.

8. §. The Contexture hereof, in many of its parts, is much more close than that of the Cortical; and their Pores very different. For whereas those of the Cortical are infinitely numerous, these of the Lignous are in comparison nothing so. But these, although fewer, yet are they, many of them, more open, fair and visible: as in a very thin Slice cut athwart the young Root of a Tree, and held up against the light, is apparent. Yet not in all equally; in Coran-Tree, Goosberry-Tree, &c. less, in Oak, Plums, and especially Damascens, more; Tab. 2. f. 5. in Elder, Vines, &c. most conspicuous. And as they are different in number and size, so also (whereon the numerousness of the Pores of the Cortical Body principally depends) in their shape. For whereas those of the Cortical Body are extended much alike both by the length and breadth of the Root; these of the Lignous, are only by the length; which especially in Vines, and some other Roots is evident. Of these Pores, ’tis also observable, that although in all places of the Root they are visible, yet most fair and open about the filamentous Extremities of some Roots, Tab. 2. f. 7. a. b. where about, the Roots have no Pith; as in Fenil. And in many Roots, higher.

9. §. The proportion betwixt this Lignous Body and the Cortical, is various, as was said; yet in this, constant, sc. that in the filamentous and smaller Parts of the Root, the Lignous Body is very much the less; running like a slender Wyer or Nerve through the other surrounding it. Whereas in the upper part, it is often times of far greater quantity than the Cortical, although it be encompass’d by it. They stand both together pyramidally, which is most common to Infant Roots, but also to a great many others.

10. §. The next Part observable in the Root, is the Insertment. The existence hereof, so far as we can yet observe, is sometimes in the Radicle of the Seed it self; I cannot say always. As to its substantial nature, we are more certain; that it is the same with that of the Parenchyma of the Radicle; being always at least augmented, and so, in part, originated from the Cortical Body, and so, at second hand, from the said Parenchyma. For in dissecting a Root, I find, that the Cortical Body doth not only environ the Lignous, but is also wedg’d, and in many Pieces inserted into it; and that the said inserted Pieces make not a meer Indenture, but transmit and shoot themselves quite through as far as the Pith: Tab. 2. f. 5. which in a thin Slice cut athwart the Root, as so many lines drawn from the Circumference towards the Center, shew themselves.

11. §. The Pores of the Insertment are sometimes, at least, extended somewhat more by the breadth of the Root, as about the top of the Root of Borage may be seen; and are thus different from those of the Cortical Body, which are extended by the length and breadth much alike; and from those of the Lignous, being only by its length.

12. §. The number and size of these Insertions are various. In Hawthorn, and some others, and especially Willows, they are most extream small; in Cherries and Plums they are Biger; Tab. 2. f. 5. & 6. and in the Vine and some other Trees, very fairly apparent. In the Roots of most Herbs they are generally more easily discoverable; which may lead to the observation of them in all.

13. §. These Insertions, although they are continuous through both the length and breadth of the Root; yet not so in all Parts, but by the several shootings of the Lignous Body they are frequently intercepted. For of the Lignous Body it is (here best) observable; That its several Shootings, betwixt which the Cortical is inserted, are not, throughout the Root, wholly distinct, strait and parallel; but that all along being enarch’d, the Lignous Body, both in length and breadth, is thus disposed into Braces or Osculations. Betwixt these several Shootings of the Lignous Body thus osculated, the Cortical shooting, Tab. 2. f. 8. and being also osculated answerably Brace for Brace, that which I call the Insertment is framed thereof.

14. §. These Osculations are so made, that the Pores or Fibres of the Lignous Body, I think, notwithstanding, seldom or never run one into another; being, though contiguous, yet still distinct. In the same manner as some of the Nerves, though they meet, and for some space are associated together, yet ’tis most probable, that none of their Fibres are truly inosculated, saving perhaps, in the Plexures.

15. §. These Osculations of the Lignous Body, and so the interception of the Insertions of the Cortical, are not to be observ’d by the traverse cut of the Root, but by taking off the Barque. In the Roots of Trees, they are generally obscure; but in Herbs often more distinctly apparent; and especially in a Turnep: the appearance whereof, the Barque being stripp’d off, is as a piece of close-wrought Net-work, fill’d up with the Insertions from thence.

16. §. The next and last distinct Part of the Root is the Pith. The substantial nature thereof, is, as was said of the Insertment, the same likewise with that of the Parenchyma of the Seed. And according to the best observation I have yet made, ’tis sometimes existent in its Radicle; in which, the two main Branches of the Lobes both meeting, and being osculated together, are thus dispos’d into one round and tubular Trunk, and so environing part of the Parenchyma, make thereof a Pith; as in either the Radicle, or the young Root of the great Bean or Lupine, may, I think, be well seen.

17. §. But many times the Original hereof is immediately from the Barque. For in dissection of divers Roots, both of Trees and Herbs, as of Barberry or Mallows, it is observable, That the Cortical Body and Pith, are both of them participant of the same Colour; in the Barberry, both of them tinged yellow, and in Mallows, green. In cutting the smaller Parts of the Roots of many Plants, as of Borage, Mallows, Parsley, Columbine, &c. ’tis also evident, That the Lignous Body is not there, in the least Concave, but standeth Solid, or without any Pith, Tab. 2. f. 9. a. in the Center; and that the Insertions being gradually multiplied afterwards, the Pith, at length, towards the thicker parts of the Root, shews and enlarges it self. Whence it appears, that in all such Roots, the Pith is not only of the same substantial nature, and by the Insertions doth communicate with the Barque; and that it is also augmented by it; which is true of the Pith of all Roots; but is moreover, by mediation of the said Insertions, wholly originated from it; that is to say, from the Parenchymous Part thereof. The various appearances of the Insertions and Pith from the filamentous Parts to the top of the Root, see in Tab. 2. Tab. 2. f. 9. The Pores of the Lignous Body, as it stands entire in the said filamentous Parts, are best seen when they have lain by a night to dry, after cutting.

18. §. A farther evidence hereof are the Proportions betwixt the Cortical Body and Pith. For as about the inferiour Parts of the Root, where the Pith is small, the Cortical Body is proportionably great; so about the top, where the Pith is enlarged, the Cortical Body (now more properly becoming a Barque) groweth proportionably less, sc. because the Insertions do still more and more enlarge the Pith. Likewise the peculiar frame of some Roots, wherein besides the Pith, the Lignous Body being divided into two or more Rings, there are also one or more thick Rings, of a white and soft substance, which stand betwixt them; and are nothing else but the Insertions of the Cortical Body collected into the said Rings; but, towards the top of the Root, being inserted again, thus make a large and ample Pith; Tab. 2. f. 8. as in older Fennel-Roots, those of Beet, Turnep, and some other Herbs, is seen.

19. §. The Pores of the Pith, as those of the Cortical Body, are extended both by the breadth and length of the Root, much alike; yet are they more or less of a greater size than those of the Cortical Body.

20. §. The Proportions of the Pith, are various; in Trees, but small; in Herbs, generally, very fair; in some making by far the greatest part of the Root; as in a Turnep: By reason of the wide circumference whereof, and so the finer Concoction and Assimilation of its Sap; that Part which in most old Trunks is a dry and harsh Pith, here proves a tender, pleasant meat.

21. §. In the Roots of very many Plants, as Turneps, Carrots, &c. the Lignous Body, besides its main utmost Ring, hath divers of its osculated Fibres dispersed throughout the Body of the Pith; sometimes all alike, and sometimes more especially in, or near, its Center; which Fibres, as they run towards the top of the Root, still declining the Center, at last collaterally strike into its Circumference; either all of them, or some few, keeping the Center still. Of these principally, the Succulent part of the Lignous Body of the Trunk is often originated.

22. §. Some of these Pith-Fibres, although they are so exceeding slender, yet in some Roots, as in that of Flower de liz, they are visibly concave, each of them, in their several Cavities also embosoming a very small Pith; the sight whereof, the Root being cut traverse, and laid in a Window for a day or two to dry, may without Glasses be obtain’d. And this is the general account of the Root; the declaration of the manner of its growth, with the use and service of its several Parts, we shall next endeavour.

An Account of the Growth of the Root. 23. §. I SAY THEN, That the Radicle being impregnate, and shot into the Moulds, the contiguous moisture, by the Cortical Body, being a Body laxe and Spongy, is easily admitted: Yet not all indiscriminately, but that which is more adapted to pass through the surrounding Cuticle. Which transient Sap, though it thus becomes fine, yet is not simple; but a mixture of Particles, both in respect of those originally in the Root, and amongst themselves, somewhat heterogeneous. And being lodg’d in the Cortical Body moderately laxe, and of a Circular form; the effect will be an easie Fermentation. The Sap fermenting, a separation of Parts will follow; some whereof will be impacted to the Circumference of the Cortical Body, whence the Cuticle becomes a Skin; as we see in the growing of the Coats of Cheeses, of the Skin over divers Liquors, and the like. Whereupon the Sap passing into the Cortical Body, through this, as through a Manica Hippocratis, is still more finely filtred. With which Sap, the Cortical Body being dilated as far as its Tone, without a solution of Continuity, will bear; and the supply of the Sap still renew’d: the purest part, as most apt and ready, recedes, with its due Tinctures, from the said Cortical Body, to all the parts of the Lignous; both those mixed with the Barque, and those lying within it. Which Lignous Body likewise super-inducing its own proper Tinctures into the said Sap; ’tis now to its highest preparation wrought up, and becomes (as they speak of that of an Animal) the Vegetative Ros or Cambium: the noblest part whereof is at last coagulated in, and assimilated to the like substance with the said Lignous Body. The remainder, though not united to it, yet tinctur’d therein, thus retreats, that is, by the continual appulse of the Sap, is in part carried off into the Cortical Body back again, the Sap whereof it now tinctures into good Aliment. So that whereas before, the Cortical Body was only relaxed in its Parts, and so dilated; ’tis now increas’d in real quantity or number of parts, and so is truly nourish’d. And the Cortical Body being saturate with so much of this Vital Sap as serves it self; and the second Remainders discharged thence to the Skin; this also is nourish’d and augmented therewith. So that as in an Animal Body there is no instauration or growth of Parts made by the Bloud only, but the Nervous Spirit is also thereunto assistant; so is it here: the Sap prepared in the Cortical Body, is as the Bloud, and that part thereof prepared by the Lignous, is as the Nervous Spirit; which partly becoming Nutriment to it self, and partly being discharged back into the Cortical Body, and diffusing its Tincture through the Sap there, that to the said Cortical Body and Skin, becomes also true Nutriment, and so they all now grow.

24. §. In which growth, a proportion in length and breadth is requisite: which being rated by the benefit of the Plant, both for firm standing and sufficient Sap, must therefore principally be in length. And because it is thus requisite, therefore by the constitution of one of its Parts, sc. the Lignous Body, it is also made necessary. For the Pores hereof, in that they are all extended by its length, the Sap also according to the frame and site of the said Pores will principally move; and that way as its Sap moves, the same way will the generation of its Parts also proceed; sc. by its length. And the Lignous Body first (that is by a priority causal) moving in length it self; the Cortical also moves therewith. For that which is nourish’d, is extended: but whatever is extended, is mov’d: that therefore which is nourish’d, is mov’d: The Lignous Body then being first nourish’d, ’tis likewise first mov’d, and so becomes and carries in it the Principle of all Vegetative motion in the Cortical; and so they both move in length.

25. §. Yet as the Lignous Body is the Principle of Motion in the Cortical; so the Cortical is the Moderator of that in the Lignous: As in Animal Motions, the Principle is from the Nerves; yet being once given to the Muscle or Limb, and that moving proportionably to its structure, the Nerves also are carried in the same motion with it. We suppose therefore, that as the principal motion of the Lignous Body is in length, so is its proper tendency also to Ascend. But being much exceeded both in Compass and Quantity by the Cortical, as in the smaller parts of the Root it is; it must needs therefore be over-born and governed by it; and so, though not lose its motion, yet make it that way wherein the Cortical Body may be more obedient to it; which will be by descent. Yet both of them being sufficiently pliable, they are thus capable, where the Soyl may oppose a direct descent, there to divert any way, where it is more penetrable, and so to descend obliquely. For the same reason it may also be, that though you set a Bean with the Radicle upward; yet the Radicle, as it shoots, declining also gradually, is thus arch’d in form of an Hook, and so at last descends. For every declination from a perpendicular Line, is a mixed motion betwixt Ascent and Descent, as that of the Radicle also is, and so seeming to be dependent upon the two Contrary Tendencies of the Lignous and Cortical Bodies. What may be the cause of those Tendencies (being most probably external, and a kind of Magnetisme) I shall not make my Task here to enquire.

26. §. Now although the Lignous Body, by the position and shape of its Pores, principally groweth in length; yet will it in some degree likewise in breadth: For it cannot be supposed that the purest Sap is all received into the said Pores; but that part thereof likewise, staying about its Superficial Parts, is there tinctur’d and agglutinated to them. And because these Pores are prolonged by its length; therefore it is much more laxe and easily divisible that way; as in slitting a Stick, or cleaving of Timber, and in cutting and hewing them athwart is also seen. Whence it comes to pass, that in shooting from the Center towards the Circumference, and there finding more room, its said original Laxity doth easily in divers places now become greater, and at length in open Partments plainly visible. Betwixt which Partments, the Cortical Body, being bound in on the one hand, by the surrounding Skin and Moulds, and pressed upon by the Lignous on the other, must needs insert it self, and so move contrary to it, from the Circumference towards the Center. Where the said contrary motions continued as begun, they at last meet, unite, and either make or augment the Pith. And thus the Root is fram’d, and the Skin, the Cortical and Lignous Bodies, so as is said, thereunto concurrent. We shall next shew the use of the two other Parts, sc. the Insertment and Pith; and first of the Pith.

27. §. ONE true use of the Pith is for the better Advancement of the Sap, whereof I shall speak in the next Chapter. The use I here observe, is for the quicker and higher Fermentation of the Sap: For although the Fermentation made in the Cortical Body was well subservient to the first Vegetations, yet those more perfect ones in the Trunk which after follow, require a Body more adapted to it, and that is the Pith; which is so necessary, as not to be only common to, but considerably large in the Roots of most Plants; if not in their inferiour parts, yet at their tops. Where though either deriv’d or amplify’d from the Cortical Body, yet being by its Insertions only, we may therefore suppose, as those, so this, to be more finely constituted. And being also from its coarctation, while inserted, now free; all its Pores, upon the supply of the Sap, will more or less be amplified: Upon which accounts, the Sap thereinto received, will be more pure, and its fermentation therein more active. And as the Pith is superiour to the Cortical Body by its Constitution, so by its Place. For as it thus stands central, it hath the Lignous Body surrounding it. Now as the Skin is the Fence of the Cortical Body, and that of the Lignous; so is the Lignous again a far more preheminent one unto the Pith; the Sap being here a brisk Liquor, tunn’d up as in a wooden Cask.

28. §. And as the Pith subserves the higher Fermentation of the Sap; so do the Insertions its purer Distribution; that separation which the parts of the Sap, by being fermented in the Pith, were dispos’d for; being, upon its entrance into the Insertions, now made: So that as the Skin is a Filtre to the Cortical Body, so are the Insertions a more preheminent one to the Lignous. And as they subserve the purer, so the freer and sufficient distribution of the Sap: For the Root enlarging, and so the Lignous Body growing thicker, although the Cortical and the Pith might supply Sap sufficient to the nutrition of its Parts next adjacent to them; yet those more inward, must needs be scanted of their Aliment; and so, if not quite starved, yet be uncapable of equal growth: Whereas the Lignous Body being through its whole breadth frequently disparted, and the Cortical Body inserted through it; the Sap by those Insertions, as the Bloud by the disseminations of the Arteries, is freely and sufficiently convey’d to its intimate Parts, even those, which from either the Barque or from the Pith, are most remote. Lastly, as the consequent hereof, they are thus assistant to the Latitudinal growth of the Root; as the Lignous Body to its growth in Length; so these Insertions of the Cortical, to its better growth in Breadth.

29. §. Having thus seen the solitary uses of the Several Parts of the Root, I shall lastly propound my Conjectures of that Design whereto they are altogether concurrent, and that is the Circulation of the Sap.

30. §. That the Sap hath a Double, and so a Circular Motion, in the Root; is probable, from the proper Motion of the Root, and from its Office. From its Motion, which is Descent: for which, the Sap must likewise, some where, have such a Motion proper to it. From its Office, which is, To feed the Trunk: for which, the Sap must also, in some Part or other, have a more especial Motion of Ascent.

31. §. We may therefore suppose, That the Sap moving in the Barque, towards the Pith, through the Insertions, thereinto obtains a pass, Which passage, the upper Insertions will not favour; because the Pith standing in the same height with them, is there large, the fermenting and course of the Sap quick, and so its opposition strong. But through the lower it will much more easily enter; because there, from the smallness of the Pith, the opposition is little, and from the shortness of the Insertions, the way more open. So that the Sap here meeting with the least opposition, here it will bestow it self (feeding the Lignous Body in its passage) into the Pith. Into which, fresh Sap still entring, this being yet but crude, will subside: that first receiv’d, and so become a Liquor higher wrought, will more easily mount upwards. And moving in the Pith, especially in the Sap-Fibers there dispers’d, as in the Arterys, in equal altitude with the upper-Insertions; the most volatile parts of all will still continue their direct ascent towards the Trunk. But those of a middle nature, and, as not apt to ascend, so being lighter than those beneath them, not to descend neither; they will tend from the Pith towards the Insertions in a Motion betwixt both. Through which Insertions (feeding the Lignous Body in its passage) it is, by the next subsequent Sap, discharged off into the Cortical Body, and so into the Sap-Fibres themselves, as into the Veins, back again. Wherein, being still pursu’d by fresh Sap from the Center, and more occurring from the Circumference, towards the lower Insertions, it thus descends. Through which, together with part of the Sap afresh imbib’d from the Earth, it re-enters the Pith. From whence, into the Cortical Body, and from thence into the Pith, the cruder part thereof, is reciprocally disburs’d; while the most Volatile, not needing the help of a Circulation, more directly ascendeth towards the Trunk.

CHAP. III.

Of the TRUNK.

AVING thus declar’d the degrees of Vegetation in the Root; the continuance hereof in the Trunk shall next be shew’d: in order to which, the Parts whereof this likewise is compounded, we shall first observe.

1. §. That which without dissection shews it self, is the Coarcture: I cannot say of the Root, nor of the Trunk; but what I choose here to mention, as standing betwixt them, and so being common to them both; all their Parts being here bound in closer together, as in the tops of the grown Roots of very many Plants, is apparent.

2. §. Of the Parts of the Trunk, the first occurring is its Skin: The Formation whereof, is not from the Air, but in the Seed, from whence it is originated; being the production of the Cuticle, there investing the two Lobes and Plume.

3. §. The next Part is the Cortical Body; which here in the Trunk is no new substantial Formation; but, as is that of the Root, originated from the Parenchyma of the Plume in the Seed; and is only the increase and augmentation thereof. Tab. 3. f. 1, & 4. The Skin, this Cortical Body or Parenchyma, and (for the most part) some Fibers of the Lignous mixed herewith, altogether make the Barque.

4. §. Next, the Lignous Body, which, whether it be visibly divided into many softer Fibers or small Threads, as in the Bean, Fennel, and most Herbs; Tab. 3. f. 1. or that its Parts stand more compact and close, shewing one hard, firm and solid piece, as in Trees; it is, in all, one and the same Body; and that not formed originally in the Trunk, but in the Seed; being nothing else but the prolongation of the Seminal Root distributed in the Lobes and Plume thereof.

5. §. Lastly, The Insertions and Pith are here originated likewise from the Plume, as the same in the Root, from the Radicle: So that as to their Substantial Parts, the Lobes of the Seed, the Radicle and Plume, the Root and Trunk are all one.

6. §. Yet some things are more fairly observable in the Trunk. First, the Latitudinal shootings of the Lignous Body, which in Trunks of several years growth, are apparent in so many Rings, as is commonly known. For several young Fibers of the Lignous Body, Tab. 3. f. 5, & 8. as in the Root, so here, shooting in the Cortical one year, and the spaces betwixt them being after fill’d up with more (I think not till) the next, at length they become altogether a firm compact Ring; the Perfection of one Ring, and the Ground-work of another, being thus made concomitantly.

7. §. From these Annual younger Fibers it is, that although the Cortical Body and Pith are both of the same substantial nature, and their Pores little different; yet whereas the Pith, which the first year is green, and of all the Parts the fullest of Sap, becomes afterwards white and dry: The Cortical Body, on the contrary, so long as the Tree grows, ever keepeth green and moist, sc. because the said Sap-Fibers, annually grow therein, and so communicate with it.

8. §. The Pores likewise of the Lignous Body, many of them, in well-grown Timber, as in Oaken boards, are very conspicuous, in cutting both lengthwise and traverse. They very seldom, if ever, run one into another, but keep, like so many several Vessels, all along distinct; Tab. 3. f. 2. & 3. as by cutting, and so following any one of them as far as you please, for a Foot or half a Yard, or more together, may be observ’d. And so, the like, in any Cane.

9. §. Besides these, there are a lesser sort; which, by the help only of a good Spectacle Glass may be observ’d.

10. §. And these are all the Pores visible without a Microscope. The use of which, excepting in some few particulars, I have purposely omitted in this first Book. Micrography. Mr. Hook sheweth us, besides these, a third, and yet smaller Sort; and (as a confirmation of what, in the Second Chapter, C. 2. §. 8. I have said of the Pores of the Lignous Body in general) that they are all continuous and prolonged by the length of the Trunk, as are the greater ones: whereof he maketh Experiment, by filling up, in a piece of Char-coal, all the said Pores with Mercury; which appears to pass quite through them, in that by a very good Glass it is visible in their Orifices at both ends; and without a Glass, by the weight of the Coal alone, is also manifest. All these I have seen, with the help of a good Microscope, in several sorts of Woods.Tab. 3. f. 7. As they all appeare in a piece of Oak, cut transversely, See Tab. 3.

11. §. Upon further Enquiry, I likewise find, That the Pores of the Lignous Body in the Trunks of Herbs, which at first I only supposed, by the help of good Glasses, are very fairly visible: each Fibre being sometimes perforated by 30, 50, 100, or hundreds of Pores. Or what I think is the truest notion of them, That each Fibre, though it seem to the bare eye to be but one, yet is, indeed, a great number of Fibres together; and every Pore, being not meerly a space betwixt the several parts of the Wood, but the Concave of a Fiber. So that if it be asked, what all that Part of a Plant, either Herb or Tree, which is properly called the Woody-Part; what all that is, I suppose, That it is nothing else but a Cluster of innumerable and most extraordinary small Vessels or Concave Fibers: Tab. 3. f. 6. as in a Slice of the Trunk of Burdock is apparent.

12. §. Next the Insertions of the Cortical Body, which in the Trunk of a Tree saw’d athwart, are plainly discerned as they run from the Circumference toward the Center; the whole Body of the Tree being visibly compounded of two distinct Substances, that of the several Rings, and that of the Insertions, running cross; shewing that in some resemblance in a Plain, Tab. 3. f. 5. & 8. which the Lines of Latitude and of the Meridian do in a Globe. The entrance of the Insertions into the Wood, is also, upon striping off the Barque, very apparent; as in the same Fig. 8.

13. §. These Insertions are likewise very conspicuous in Sawing of Trees length-ways into Boards, and those plain’d, and wrought into Leaves for Tables, Wainscot, Trenchers, and the like. In all which, as in course Trenchers made of Beech, and Tables of Oak, there are many parts which have a greater smoothness than the rest; Tab. 3. f. 2. & Tab. 4. f. 1. and are so many inserted Pieces of the Cortical Body; which being by those of the Lignous, frequently intercepted, seem to be discontinuous, although in the Trunk they are really extended, in continued Plates, throughout its Breadth.

14. §. These Insertions, although as is said, of a quite distinct substance from the Lignous Body, and so no where truly incorporated with it, yet being they are in all parts, the one as the Warp, the other as the Woof, mutually braced and interwoven together, they thus constitute one strong and firmly coherent Body; Tab. 4. f. 1. as the Timber of any Tree.

15. §. As the Pores or Vessels are greater or less, so are the Insertions also: To the bare eye usually the greater only are discernable: But through an indifferent Microscope there are others also, much more both numerous and small, distinctly apparent, Tab. 3. f. 7. as in a transverse piece of Oak.

16. §. In none of all the Pores can we observe any thing which may have the true nature and use of Valves, which is, Easily to admit that, to which they will by no means allow a regress. And their nonexistence is enough evident, from what in the first Chapter C. 1. §. 42. we have said of the Lobes of the Seed: in whose Seminal Root, were there any Valves, it could not be, that by a contrary Course of the Sap, they should ever grow; which yet, where-ever they turn into Dissimilar Leaves, they do. Or if we consider the growth of the Root, which oftentimes is upward and downward both at once. And being cut transversely, will bleed, both the same ways, with equal freedom.

17. §. The Insertions here in the Trunk give us likewise a sight of the position of their Pores. For in a plained piece of Oak, as in Wainscot, Tables, &c. besides the larger Pores of the Lignous Body, which run by the length of the Trunk; Tab. 3. f. 2. the Tract likewise of those of the Insertions may be observed to be made by the breadth, and so directly cross. Nor are they continuous as those of the Lignous Body, but very short, as those both of the Cortical Body and Pith, with which the Insertions, as to their substance, are congenerous. Yet they all stand so together, as to be plainly ranked in even Lines or Rows throughout the breadth of the Trunk: As the Tract of those Pores appears to the naked Eye, see in Tab. 3. Fig. 9. The Pores themselves may be seen in the Root of a Vine described and figured in the Second Book, as it appears through a good Microscope. Tab. 17.

18. §. The Pores of the Pith likewise being larger here in the Trunk, are better observable than in the Root: the width whereof, in comparison with their Sides so exquisitely thin, may by an Hony-Comb be grosly exemplified; and is that also which the vast disproportion betwixt the Bulk and Weight of a dry Pith doth enough declare. In the Trunks of some Plants, they are so ample and transparent, that in cutting both by the length and breadth of the Pith, some of them through the transparency of the Skins by which they are bounded, or of which they consist, would seem to be considerably extended by the length of the Pith; but are really discontinuous and short, and as ’tis said, somewhat answerable to the Cells of an Hony-Comb. This is the nearest we can come to them, by the bare Eye without the assistance of a good Microscope. Mr. Hook sheweth in his Micrography, That the Pores of the Pith, particularly of Elder-Pith, so far as they are visible, are all alike discontinuous; and that the Pith is nothing else but (as he calls them) an heap of Bubbles. Although, in regard they are not fluid, but fixed Parts, I shall choose rather to call them, Bladders. As they appear through a good Glass, in a piece of Burdock, See in Tab. 3. Tab. 3. f. 6. But a more particular Description of the Sizes, Figures, and admirable Textures hereof, I have given in several places in the following Books.

19. §. Besides what this Observation informs us of here, it farther confirms what in the Second Chapter C. 2. §. 3, 16, 17. we have said of the Original of the Pith and Cortical Body, and of the sameness of both their natures with the Parenchyma of the Seed: which is nothing else but a Mass of Bladders; C. 1. §. 18. & Tab. 1. f. 9. as in the First Chapter hath been said.

20. §. In the Piths of many Plants, the greater Pores or Bladders have some of them lesser ones within them, and some of them are divided with cross Membranes: And betwixt their several sides, have, I think, other smaller Bladders visibly interjected. However, that they are all permeable, is most certain. They stand together not confusedly, but in even Ranks or Trains; as those of the Insertions by the breadth, so these by the length of the Trunk. And thus far there is a general corresponding betwixt the parts of the Root and Trunk. Yet are there some considerable Disparities betwixt them; wherein, and how they come to pass, and to what especial Use and End, shall next be said.

An Account of the Growth of the Trunk. 21. §. WE SAY then, that the Sap being in the Root by Filtrations, Fermentations (and in what Roots needful, perhaps by Circulation also) duly prepar’d; the prime part thereof passing through the intermediate Coarcture, in due moderation and purity is entertain’d at last into the Trunk. And the Sap of the Trunk being purer and more volatile, and so it self apt to ascend; the motion of the Trunk likewise will be more noble, receiving a disposition and tendency to ascend therewith. And what by the Sap the Trunk is in part dipos’d to, by the respective position and quantity of its Parts it is effectually enabled. For whereas in the Root the Lignous Body being in proportion with the Cortical, but little, and all lying close within its Center; it must therefore needs be under its controul: on the contrary, being here comparatively of greater quantity, and also more dilated, and having divers of its Branches standing more abroad towards the Circumference, as both in the Leaves and Body of the young Trunk and Plume, is seen; it will in its own magnetical tendency to ascend, reduce the Cortical Body to a compliance with it.

22. §. And the Trunk thus standing from under the restraint of the Ground in the open Air, the disposition of its Parts, originally different from that of the Parts in the Root, will not only be continued, but improved. For by the force and pressure of the Sap in its collateral Motion, the Lignous Body will now more freely and farther be dilated. And this being dilated, the Cortical Body also, must needs be inserted; and is therefore in proportion always, more or less, smaller here in the Trunk, than in the Root. And as the Cortical Body lessens, so the Pith will be enlarged, and by the same proportion is here greater. And the Pith being enlarged it self, its Pores (the Lignous Body, upon its dilatation, as it were tentering and stretching out all their sides) must needs likewise be enlarged with it; and accordingly, are ever greater in the Pith of the Trunk, than of the Root. And the dilatation of the Lignous Body still continued, it follows, that whereas the Pith descendent in the Root, is not only in proportion less and less, but also in the smaller extremities thereof, and sometimes higher, altogether absent: Contrariwise, in the Trunk, it is not only continued to its top and smallest Twigs, but also there, in proportion, equally ample with what it is in any other inferiour part.

23. §. But although the openness of the Aer permitting, be always alike; yet the Energy of the Sap effecting, being different; as therefore that doth, the dilatation of the Trunk, will also vary. If that be less, so is this; as in the Trunks of most Trees: If that be greater, so this; as in Herbs is common; the Lignous Body being usually so far dilated, that the utmost Shootings thereof may easily be seen to jut out, and adjoyn to the Skin. And if the Sap be still of greater energy, it so far dilates the Lignous Body, as not only to amplifie the Pith and all its Pores; but also so far to stretch them out, as to make them tear. Whereupon either running again into the Cortical Body, or shrinking up towards it, the Trunk thus sometimes becomes an hollow Stalk, the Pith being wholly, or in part voided. But generally it keeps entire; and where it doth, the same proportion and respect to the Lignous and Cortical Bodies, as is said. The Consequences of all which will be, the Strength of the Trunk, the Security and Plenty of the Sap, its Fermentation will be quicker, its Distribution more effectual, and its Advancement more sufficient.

24. §. First, the Erect Growth and Strength of the Trunk; this being, by the position of its several Parts, effected: for besides the slendering of the Trunk still towards the top, the Circumferential position of the Lignous Body, likewise is, and that eminently, hereunto subservient. So that as the Lignous Body, in the smaller parts, of the Root standing Central, we may thence conceive and see their pliableness to any oblique motion; so here, on the contrary, the Lignous Body standing wide, it thus becomes the Strength of the Trunk, and most advantageous to its Perpendicular Growth. We see the same Design in Bones and Feathers: The strongest Bones, as those in the Legs, are hollow. Now should we suppose the same Bone, to be contracted into a Solid; although now it would be no heavier, and in that respect, as apt for motion; yet would it have far less strength, than as its Parts are dilated to a Circumferential posture. And so for Quills, which, for the same Reasons, in subserviency to flying, as they are exceeding light; So, in comparison with the thinness of their Sides, they are very strong, and much less apt to bend, than if contracted into a Solid Cylinder. We see it not only in Nature, but Art. For hence it is, that Joyners and Carpenters unite and set together their Timber-pieces and several Works oftentimes with double Joynts; which, although they are no thicker, than a single one might be made; yet standing at a distance, have a greater strength than That could have. And the same Architecture, will have the same use, in the Trunks of Plants; in most whereof ’tis very apparent; as for instance, in Corn. For Nature designing its Sap a great Ascent; for its higher maturity, hath given it a tall Trunk: But to prevent its ravenous despoiling either of the Ear, or Soyl; although it be tall, yet are its sides but thin: And because again, it should grow not only tall and thriftily, but for avoiding propping up, strongly too; therefore, the same proportion as its heigth bears, to the thinness of its sides, doth the greatness of its Circumference also; being so far dilated as to parallel a Quil it self.

25. §. Besides the position of the Lignous Body within the compass of a Ring, there are some Shootings thereof, often standing beyond the Circumference of the said Ring, making sometimes a triangular, oftner a quadrangular Body of the Trunk. To the end, that the Ring, being but thin, and not self-sufficient, these, like Splinters to Bones, might add strength and stability to it.

26. §. Next, the security and plenty of the Sap. For should the Lignous Body, as it doth in the smaller Parts of the Root, stand Central here also, and so the Cortical wholly surround it: the greater part of the Sap would thus be more immediately expos’d to the Sun and Aer; and being lodged in a laxe Body, by them continually be prey’d upon, and as fast as supplied to the Trunk, be exhausted. Whereas, the Pith standing in the Center, the Sap therein being not only most remote from the Aer and Sun, but by the Barque, and especially the Wood, being also surrounded and doubly immur’d, will very securely and copiously be convey’d to all the Collateral Parts, and (as shall be said how) the top of the Trunk.

27. §. And the Sap by the amplitude, and great porosity of the Pith, being herein more copious, its Fermentation also will be quicker; which we see in all Liquors, by standing in a greater quantity together, proceeds more kindly: And being tun’d up within the Wood, is at the same time not only secur’d from loss, but all extream mutations; the Day being thus, not too hot; nor the Night, too cold for it.

28. §. And the Fermentation hereof being quicker, its motion also will be stronger, and its Distribution more effectual, not only to the dilatation of the Trunk, but likewise the shooting out of the Branches. Whence it is, that in the Bodies of Trees, the Barque of it self, though it be Sappy, and many Fibres of the Lignous Body mixed with it, yet seldom sendeth forth any; and that in Herbs, those with the least Pith (other advantages not supplying this defect) have the fewest or smallest Branches, or other collateral Growths: and that Corn, which hath no Pith, hath neither any Branches.

29. §. Lastly, the Advancement of the Sap will hence also be more ready and sufficient. For the understanding where, and how, we suppose, That in all Trunks whatsoever there are two Parts joyntly hereunto subservient. In some, the Lignous Body and the Cortical, as in older Trunks; the Pith being either excluded, or dried: But in most, principally, the Lignous Body and Pith; as in most Annual Growths of Trees; but especially Herbs, where the Cortical Body is usually much and often wholly Inserted.

30. §. Of the Lignous Body it is so apparent by its Pores, or rather by its Vessels, that we need no farther Evidence. For to what end are Vessels, but for the conveyance of Liquor? And is that also, which upon cutting the young Branch of a Sappy Tree or Herb, by an accurate and steady view may be observed. But when I say the Vessels of the Lignous Body, I mean principally them of the younger shootings, both those which make the new Ring, and those which are mixed with the Cortical Body in the Barque: that which ascendeth by the Pores or Vessels of the Wood, being probably, because in less quantity, more in form of a Vapour, than a Liquor. Yet that which drenching into the sides of its Pores, is with all thereunto sufficient Aliment; as we see Orpine, Onions, &c. only standing in a moyster Aer will often grow. And being likewise in part supplied by the Insertions from the younger Shoots: But especially because as it is but little, so (considered as Aliment) it serveth only for the growth of the Wood, and no more; whereas, the more copious Aliment ascendent by the younger Shoots, subserves not only their own growth, but the generation of others; and is besides with that in the Cortical Body the Fountain of Perspirations, which we know even in Animals are much more abundant than the Nutritive Parts; and doubtless in a Vegetable are still much more.

31. §. But these Pores, although they are a free and open way to the ascending Sap; yet that meer Pores or Vessels should be able of themselves to advance the Sap with that speed, strength and plenty, and to that height, as is necessary, cannot probably be supposed. It follows then, that herein we must grant the Pith a joynt service. And why else is the Pith in all Primitive Growths the most Sappy part, why hath it so great a stock of Sap, if not, after due maturation within it self, still to be disbursed into the Fibres of the Lignous Body? Why are the Annual Growths of all both Herbs and Trees, with great Piths, the quickest and the longest? But how are the Pores or Bladders of the Pith permeable? That they are so, both from their being capable of a repletion with Sap, and of being again wholly emptied of it, and again, instead thereof fill’d with Aer, is as certain as that they are Pores. That they are permeable, by the breadth, appears from the dilatation of the Lignous Body, and from the production of Branches, as hath been, and shall hereafter be said. And how else is there a Communion betwixt This and the Cortical Body? That they are so also, by the length, is probable, because by the best Microscope we cannot yet observe, that they are visibly more open by the breadth, than by the length. And withall are ranked by the length, as those of the Insertions by the breadth of the Trunk. But if you set a piece of dry Elder-Pith in some tinged Liquor, why then doth it not penetrate the Pores, so as to ascend through the Body of the Pith? The plain reason is, because they are all fill’d with Aer. Whereas the Pith in a Vegetating Plant, as its Parts or Bladders are still generated, they are at the same time also fill’d with Sap; which, as ’tis gradually spent, is still repaired by more succeeding, and so the Aer still kept out; as in all Primitive Growths, and the Pith of Elder it self: Yet the same Pith, by reason of the following Winter, wanting a more copious and quick supply of Sap, thus once become, ever after keeps dry. And since in the aforesaid Trial the Liquor only ascends by the sides of the Pith, that is of its broken Bladder, we should thence by the same reason conclude that they are not penetrable by the breadth neither, and so no way; and then it need not be ask’d what would follow. But certainly the Sap in the Bladders of the Pith is discharged and repaired every moment, as by its shriv’ling up, upon cutting the Plant, is evident.

32. §. We suppose then, that as the Sap ascendeth into the Trunk by the Lignous Body, so partly also by the Pith. For a piece of Cotton with one end immers’d in some tinged Liquor, and with the other erect above, though it will not imbibe the Liquor so far as to over-run at the top, yet so as to advance towards it, it will. So here, the Pith, being a porous and spongy Body, and in its Vegetating state, its Pores or Bladders being also permeable, as a curious Filtre of Natures own contrivance, it thus advanceth, or as people use to say, sucks up the Sap. Yet as it is seen of the Liquor in the Cotton; so likewise are we to suppose it of the Sap in the Pith; that though it riseth up for some way, yet is their some term, beyond which it riseth not, and towards which the motion of the ascending Sap is more and more broken, weak and slow, and so the quantity thereof less and less. But because the Sap moveth not only by the length, but breadth of the Pith; at the same time therefore as it partly ascendeth by the Pith, it is likewise in part pressed into the Lignous Body or into its Pores. And since the motion of the Sap by the breadth of the Pith not being far continued, and but collateral, is more prone and easie, than the perpendicular, or by its length; it therefore follows, that the collateral motion of the Sap, at such a height or part of the Pith, will be equally strong with the perpendicular at another part, though somewhat beneath it; and that where the perpendicular is more broken and weak, the collateral will be less; and consequently where the perpendicular tendency of the Sap hath its term, the collateral tendency thereof, and so its pressure into the Pores or Vessels of the Lignous Body, will still continue. Through which, in that they are small, and so their sides almost contiguous, the Sap as fast as pressed into them will easily run up; as in very small Glasse Pipes, or betwixt the two halves of a Stick first slit, and then tyed somewhat loosely together, may also any Liquor be observed to do. By which Advantage the facility and strength of that ascent will be continued higher in the said Vessels, than in the Pith. Yet since this also, as well as that in the Pith will have its term; the Sap, although got thus far, would at last be stagnant, or at least its ascent be very sparing, slow and feeble, if not some way or other re-inforced. Wherefore, as the Sap moving by the breadth of the Pith, presseth thence into the Vessels of the Lignous Body; so having well fill’d these, is in part by the same Collateral motion disbursed back, into a yet higher Region of the Pith. By which partly, and partly, by that portion of the Sap, which in its perpendicular ascent was before lodged therein; ’tis thus here, as in any inferiour place equally replenished. Whereupon the force and vigour of the perpendicular motion of the Sap herein, will likewise be renew’d; and so its Collateral motion also, and so its pressure into the Vessels of the Lignous Body, and consequently its ascent therein: and so by a pressure, from these into the Pith, and from the Pith into these, reciprocally carried on; a most ready and copious ascent of the Sap will be continued, from the bottom to the top, though of the highest Tree.

An Appendix.

Of Trunk-Roots and Claspers.

THE distinct Parts whereof these are composed, are the same with those of the Trunk, and but the continuation of them.

1. §. Trunk-Roots are of two kinds: Of the one, are those that vegetate by a direct descent: The place of their Eruption is sometimes all along the Trunk; as in Mint, &c. Sometimes only at its utmost point, as in the Bramble.

2. §. The other sort are such as neither ascend nor descend, but shoot forth at right Angles with the Trunk; which therefore, though as to their Office, they are true Roots, yet as to their Nature, they are a Middle Thing betwixt a Root and a Trunk.

3. §. Claspers, though they are but of one kind, yet their Nature is double; not a mean betwixit that of the Root and that of the Trunk, but a compound of both; as in their Circumvolutions, wherein they often mutually ascend and descend, is seen.

4. §. The use of these Parts may be observed as the Trunk Mounts, or as it Trails. In the mounting of the Trunk, they are for Support and Supply. For Support, we see the Claspers of Vines: the Branches whereof being very long, fragile and slender; unless by their Claspers, they were mutually contain’d together, they must needs by their own weight, and that of their Fruit, undecently fall; and be also liable to frequent breaking. So that the whole care is divided betwixt the Gardener and Nature; the Gardener, with his Ligaments of Leather, secures the main Branches; and Nature, with these of her own finding, secures the Less. Their Conveniency to which end, is seen in their Circumvolutions, a motion, not proper to any other Part: As also in their toughness, though much more slender than the Branches whereon they are appendent.