For fibrous polymers the properties of partial solubility, swelling capacity and inter-fiber bonding capacity are related; their dependence on degree of polymerization, chain flexibility, branching and degree of substitution provide evidence of the way in which hydrophilic properties are modified by structural factors additional to the hydrogen bonding capability of particular chemical groups. The paper discusses such aspects of pulp and paper as: irreversible inter-fiber bonding; morphology of fiber surfaces and hydrogen bonding at the molecular level; hydrogen bonding which inhibits inter-fiber bonding; loss of pulp strength during air-drying; manipulation of bond-forming. Specific eucalypt and Pinus radiata pulps were investigated as to their bonding properties when treated with solutions containing certain chemicals. A large and varied number of chemicals were involved including phosphates, carbonates, starches, gums and detergents. -- AATA