In writing the few “PLAIN REMARKS” which follow, I shall, in a great measure, confine myself to the consideration of two main points, viz.—the _present state_, and the _present mode of managing_ such Old Woods, Plantations, and Hedge-Row Timber, as I deem to be under a course of improper treatment, suggesting, as I go on, an improved system of management of them all. Respecting both these points, I shall have to make statements which, to me, appear very important—statements, which I know cannot be controverted,—and which, though they may apply, as they are intended to apply, more particularly to some districts than to others, will, more or less, apply to all where Woods, Plantations, and well-stocked Hedge-Rows abound. Upon the second point in particular,—I mean the present modes of managing property of this description,—I shall endeavour to show in what respects, and, as well as I am able, to what extent, it is erroneous or defective. But first, I would remark generally, that although the treatment of Plantations is bad enough, it is not so grossly bad as is that of Ancient Woods and Hedge-Row Timber. I have, for some time, had it in my mind to write respecting the two latter, having been long convinced that a most extensive waste of property, and loss of time, was going on, but, until now, I have neither had leisure to prepare for, nor confidence to submit to, a “discerning public,” those views which have been matured during an eighteen years observation and experience. I have now, however, resolved to print, and whatever may be the precise result to myself, if, by means of this publication, the attention of Noblemen and Gentlemen is drawn only to one hundredth part of their _neglected_ Woods and Plantations, and of their _abused Hedge-Rows_, so as to induce them immediately to determine to arrest the progress of the mischief that is going on, and not only to commence the work of improvement, but to proceed to the necessary extent in carrying it on, two most important results, _at least_, will be produced; viz.; to Proprietors themselves a very considerable present or prospective advantage—in some cases both—and a large measure of real benefit to the Labouring Classes, in the increased demand which will be created for the labour of their hands. This last object is so vastly important, that an enlightened and benevolent mind will always be ready to listen to any suggestions that may be thrown out to promote it; but at a period like the present, when one great constitutional change in our domestic policy has been made, and when there is too much cause to fear that another is about to be tried,—each of which is as much _an experiment in morals_ as any thing else,—it is invested with a much higher claim on the attention of those to whom the appeal may be made, than in ordinary circumstances it would be.