The huge tree abati timbabỹ, in the heat of the sun, sheds a quantity of
gum of a golden colour, and clear as the purest crystal, of which the
lower orders of Spaniards and the wood Indians make crosses, ear-rings,
and beads to hang round the neck, by the following method: they apply
hollow moulds, made in the same form, of wood or reeds, to the trunk of
the tree, and the gum flowing down into them is hardened by the air, and
quickly assumes the shape of crosses, ear-rings, or beads, with
admirable exactness; you would swear they were made of crystal. Although
as fragile as glass, they can be melted by no moisture. Were European
artisans in possession of this gum, they would make knots, buckles, and
little images beautifully with it. Might it not possibly contain
medicinal properties? No one has hitherto made trial of its virtues.