[Robert Bolton, Jr. (1848)] The Indians, for the better purpose of hunting the large herds of deer that roamed through these forests, annually burnt the higher grounds. " This prac-tice (says Vanderdonck,) is named by us and the Indians, '■ bush-burning,'' which is done for several reasons; first, to render hunting easier, as the bush and vegetable growth renders the walking difficult for the hunter, and the crackling of the dry Substances betrays him and frightens away the game. Secondly, to thin out and clear the woods of all dead substances and grass, which grow better the ensuing spring. Thirdly, to circumscribe and enclose the game within the lines of the fire, when it is more easily taken, and also because the game is more easily tracked over the burned parts of the woods. The bush burning presents a grand and sublime appearance. On seeing it from without, we would imagine that not only the dry leaves, vegetables and limbs would be burnt, but that the whole woods would be con-sumed where the fire passes, for it frequently spreads and rages with such violence, that it is awful to behold," &c.a The last burning remembered by the oldest inhabitant took place on the high ridge east of Primrose street. By the royal patent to Stephanus van Cortlandt in 1697, it will be seen that he enjoyed the sole right of hunting deer with-in llie forests of Cortlandt, a privilege usually conceded to the Ranger of the county.^ N. Y. Hist. Collect. 2d series, vol. i. t See Cortlandt town, vol. i. 4G.