with special reference to the witness trees, and by making a comparison of this data with the field notes of the official survey, not even the most accomplished rogue in existence can throw you off. In fact, it is absolutely impossible to duplicate the witness trees of any two sections of land in the United States. In case a section corner has but three witness trees, the field notes will show it, at the same time stating the reason for the deficiency.
Many surveyors use a stone for a post, wherever obtainable, as they are more indestructible. By horizontal lines engraved thereon, it can be readily determined how far the corner is from the township line. For instance, if it was the corner to the southeast corner of section 16, the stone would show three horizontal marks on the East side, and the same number on the south side, indicating that it was three miles from the East and south boundaries of the township, or practically in the center thereof. These stones are usually about 10x10 inches, and extend above ground from 14 to 20 inches, according to circumstances. as there is no established rule to govern. They are always described minutely in the field notes of the survey, however, and by following these notes carefully there is no reason why any person should not know if he is on the right land, or whether somebody is trying to misrepresent the true conditions for whatever purpose intended to deceive.
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