Page:Memoir upon the negotiations between Spain and the United States of America which led to the treaty of 1819.djvu/58

48 is, in general, neither durable nor strong, and hence the defect which is observed in their merchant ships. There is, however, in the islands and inlets of the South, much excellent timber, particularly the oak, which is employed in the navy, and which is superiour to the greater part of the timber of Europe.

From the ashes of the trees, which are burned upon newly cleared lands, they prepare two kinds of Soda or Barilla, from the want of these plants, which do not grow in their territory. The one they call pearl ashes, and the other pot ashes. The first is used for dyes, and the second in the manufacture of soap, glass, and glazed earthen ware.

They purchase hides and skins from the Indians, who live altogether by the chace, and this affords them considerable profit; but those who