If an immaterial branch is broken, it is best to remove it entirely, but it sometimes happens that a stem or branch which cannot be replaced, is thus injured, in which case it is advisable to attempt a reduction of the fracture; and if it be only partial and the stem or branch but small, the parts will again unite by being put back into their natural position, and well propped up. Especially the cure may be expected not to succeed if the fracture is accompanied with contusion, or if the stem or branch is large. And even where it succeeds, the woody fibres do not contribute to the union; but the granular and herbaceous substance only which exudes from between the wood and liber, insinuating itself into all interstices, and finally becoming indurated in the wood. - Keith.

Splints extending at least a foot above and below the fracture, should be bound very firmly all round, and a plaster of grafting-clay to exclude wet be placed over all; and every precaution adopted to prevent the surfaces of the wound being moved by the force of the wind.