* UMASS AMHERST illlllii!iilif'll!l[!l|[!l'lli|llillll!!|liil!'llfPI 312Dbh D5bD SE51 D k ■ FIVE COLLEGE DEPOSITO AVIH D Q D a a D a a a a a D D D D D D D D D o D D a H°°°'=^^oaaaaanaoaoaaoaaaonoaoaaaa a a a a a a a D a a a D a a a D D D D D D D D D D D D D D "tih^* UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS LIBRARY f^LS^^^-avs ^HCHtVES /w 00 °°°^oaaaaaaaDaaDaaaaaaaaa oaaaaaa a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a D a D D D D D n D D D D D D D D D D D D D D D D D a D D D D D D O D I JJBRARY " UNiVECToF massachusett TUK NEW ENGLAND FARMER, CONTAINING ESSAYS, ORIGINAL AND SELECTED, REL.\TING TO AGRICULTURE AND DOMESTIC ECONOMY, WITH ENGRAVING?, AND THE PRICES OF COUNTRY PRODUCE. BY THOMAS G. FESSENDEN. •^©a, 2, BOSTON, PUBLISHED BY THOMAS W. SHEPARD, ROGERS' BUILDINGS, CONGRESS STREET. 1823. isa^/ 2,3, INDEX TO VOL. I. A. his remarks on the difference between domestic and imported wool 396. A. B. his remarks ou the manufacture of butter 364. Abbot, Rev. Abiel, his observations on fruit trees 141. Accounts, farmers' should be regularly kept 157. Adams, late President of the United States, notice of his donation to the town of Quincy 40, 318. Adams George, his mode of raising cabbages 363. Addoms John T. his communication respecting the dis- eases of sheep 205. Address, to the Society of Middlesex Husbandmen and Manufacturers 89, 162 — to the Fredericksburgh Ag- ricultural Society 164 — to the Worcester do. 180— to the Ontario do. 194 — to the Massachusetts do. 217 — to the Maine do. 236 — to the Essex do. 244 — to the Cheshire do. 284. Agrestia, his remarks on making butter, cheese, &c. 32-J. Agricola, quotations from his Letters 45, 91, 92, 139, 218— his Report delivered before the Provincial So- ciety of N. Scotia 337 — on cultivating R uta Bag-a 38S. Agricultural College, considerations on the necessity of establishing 41, 49, 57, 65. — Experiments, report of by a committee of the Mass. Agricultural Society 178. — Professorship founded in Virginia 147. — Societies, Washington's opinion of 78 — Peter Plough- jogger's remarks on their utility 285. — Society of Massachusetts, premiums of 25, 97, 273 — Officers of 375 — of Essex, report of their committee on the management of farms 282 — premiums offered by 239 — of Worcester, premiums offered by 52. Agriculture, importance of as a science 14 — an eligible employment for young men 108 — connected with commerce and manufactures ib. — report of a com- mittee of, appointed by the legislature of New York 210 — remarks on 308. Allen, Rev. Wilkes, extracts from his Address 162. Alum, manufactured in Salem 363. Analysis of soils, modes of, 91, 403. Apple-trees, destroyed when young by tearing off all their top branches in grafting 61 — grafted on syca- more trees 387. See Fruit Trees. Arator, his query concerning cattle sheds 347. Archimedes' workshop, communication concerning 306. Arrangement of agricultural labor 181. Artichoke, Jerusalem, its cultivation recommended 40], 402, 406. Asparagus beds, how to be managed, &:c. 293. Aurora Borealis, remarks on 288, 296. B. Bacon, skippers in, destroyed by elder juice 3— pre- vented by ri-d pepper 37— preserved in oats 227— preserved in charcoal 275. See further receipts. Balsam of Peru, a remedy for mortification 342. Barker, John B. Esq. his song on a farmer's life 200. Barley, C3 1-2 bushels of, raised on an acre, by Joseph Watson Jr. 259. Barns, the situation and cpnstrvtction of 353, 3G1, 369. Barn-yards & stercoraries, Mr. Quincy's remarks on 29. Bartlett Mr. an account of his premium farm 314. Barton Mr. on gathering and cleaning clover seed 202. Beaca grass, its utility 104 — further notice of 120. Beans, Heligoland, less valuable and curious than has been supposed 294. Bed bugs, how destroyed 66. Bed bug society, notice of 3.52. Bee Miller, how destroyed 67. Beef, how cured in summer 37. Beeliives, improved construction of 331, 396. Beer, how to refine and clarify 12 — made with hemlock instead of spruce 393. See receipts. Bees, proposed to keep them in an ice-house 5 — to pre- vent their being destroyed by worms 108 — honey, how taken from, in Germany 322. See Bee-hires. Beets, large ones, notice of 128 — how cultivated 293 — battle of 144. Berkshire, bis observations on preserving bacon by charcoal 275 — on sowing spring wheat, and preserv- atives against smut 275. Berrj', Ebene/pr, his statement respecting the advan- tages of deep ploughing 340. Birds, should be protected against gunners 59. Bonnet, a splendid, manufactured by Mrs. Wells 80 — one sold at Biighton for eighty dollars 95. Book-farming, remarks on 14, 15. Boozy, Ichabod, his wet tax 336. Botts in horses, remarks on 388. B. P. his communications relative to taking honey from hives 331, 396. Brandy, peach, how made by the French 20. Bread, various modes of making 4 — of potatoes 20 — improvements in 176 — food for horses 393. Breeds of cattle, notice of 173. See further " Catth Brewing, notices of 322. Brown, Dr. J. B. his observations on the diseases of animals 45. Buel Jesse, Esq. on the cultivation of turnips and ruta baga 106, 131, 246- on millet 106— on the applica- tion of stable manure 370, Bugs, how destroyed 3. See further receipts. Buildings, costly, should not be erected in commencing farming 12. Bull-baiting, a cruel instance of 152, Bulls ought to be made to work 28, Burnham, Mr. Daniel, notice of his new sort of Indian corn 265. Burning clay for manure 210 — burning sod 316. Burrall Thomas D, Esq. his address to the Ontario Ag- ricultural Society 194, Burying ground, national, remarks on 206. Burying dead in populous cities condemned 323, 394. Bushes, on the best mode of killing 306. Butter, how made 12 — to take a rancid taste from 12 — to make from scalded cream 12, 159 — receipt for curing 12 — salt, how made fresh 66 — how best made in cold weather 108 — method of making good from cows fed on turnips 123 — great quantities of madi by John M.Graham 149 — Mr. Pickering's remark" on 220 — general directions for making 324, 364, 3.'J1. C. his communication on the properties of an unit 18!*. Cabbages, on the cultivation of 293, 349— great crops of 363. Calendar, farmers', indicated by the budding of tree?. &c. 21, 22. Calves, best mode of feeding and raising 122, 324. Canada thistles, how destroyed 30, 280, 398. Canal from Worcester to Providence 186. Candles with wooden wicks, notice of 30. Capital, necessary for a farmer 29. Carrot, on the cultivation of 265, 293. Cashmere Goat, and its importation into France, re- marks on 108. Catarrh in cattle, remedy for 177. Caterpillars that destroy grass. Dr. Harris's description of, and remedy against 238, 305 — description of Col. Pickering's brush for destroying 308 — other modes ol destroying 362, 371, 379. Cattle, breeds of much improved since 1700, 1 — mode of fattening 12, 133— improvement of 134, 156— how to distinguish those which are inclined to fatten 162 —diseases of 169, 177, 185, 193, 201, 209, 225, 233. 249, 257 — large ones in Germany 19 — swollen oi hoven, remedy for 46 — weight of, how ascertained by measurement 68 — breeding of 67 — best shape for 109 — different kinds 204 — remarks on 213, 228 — large, owned by Mr. Rice 251 — Mr. Wilkinson's re- marks on 252, 260, 268— breeding in and in to too great an extent not advisable 270 — fine, belonging to Mr. Monmouth Purdy271 — North Devon, their prices in England 299 — to remove vermin from 307 — on making veri/ fat 313 — proper age for fattening ib. — best food for fattening ib. — Col. Jaques' breed, notice of 350 — breeds of remarked on by Curweu 362. Cattle Sheds, query concerning 347. Cattle Shows— at Worcester 43, 71, 74 ; at Brighton 66, 86, 97 ; at Amherst, N. H. 79 ; at Concord 81 ; at Windsor, Vt. 83 ; at Burlington, Vt. 83 ; at Paw- tuxet, R. I. 101 i at Exeter, N. H. 101 ; at Middle- bury, Vt. 101 ; at Acworth, N. H. 92 ; at Pittsfield 93 ; at Plymouth 94 ; at Hartford, Ct. 94 ; at Wind- ham, Ct. 109; at Northampton 114; atGranby, Ct. 115; at New York 130; at Virginia 154. Cattle stalls. Col. Pickering's remarks on their incon- veniences 108. Cement for water cisterns 204. Charcoal, pulverized, a cure for dysentery 37 — polish- ing powder from 356. Chemistry of use in farming 149. Cholera Morbus, cure for 29. Church Dr. his Printing Press, notice of 355. Churches, how secured from fire 179. Chum-dasher, improvement in 12. Cider, bottled, how kept from bursting 37 — an essay on 76 — fixed air should be retained in 149 — vessels for the best are hogsheads made of oak and iron bound 155 — -Col. Pickering's remarks on 220 — mode of mak- ing adopted by the religious society called Shakers IV Cider-brandy, how mixed with cider, to make cider wine 37. Cider-oil, or more properly, cider royal, how made 227, Cisterns, on the construction of 204. [254. Clearing of land, best modes of 129, 172. Clothes of females, when they have taken fire, how extinguished 142, 282. Clover hay should be salted at the rate of one peck for a ton 12. Clover seed, on g-athcring and cleaning 202. Clover, while, on saving the seed of 395. Coal discovered near Detroit 360. Cobs of Indian corn, said to be valuable as food for cattle 228. Cock-chaffer, a destructive insect, notices of 102, 112, 118, 128. Colic in cattle 201. Columella, his remarks on educating plough boys 170. Combustion, spontaneous, instances of 53, 143, 168. Composts, directions for making 321. Consumption, caused by carelessness in clothing 283. Cookery, country, general cautions respecting 369. Cooking food for cattle 22, 30, 38. Cooper Thomas, M. U. his axioms in husbandry 66. Copperas, Vermont, Dr. Locke's description of 326. Corn, sweet, notices of 3, 48. See Indian Com. Cosmetic, superior, for ladies 3. Cotton, cultivation of in New York and New Jersey 62 — on Long Island 216. Cow, marks of a good one 21— in her prime at five years old 21. Cows, warm water for in winter recommended 108 — when fed with cabbages the decayed leaves should be taken off 148 — should not be exhausted by too much milking 157 — those which give the greatest quantity of thin milk most proper for suckling calves 157 — difference of milk in ib. — on the management of when near calving 233. Coxe, Wm. his mode of managing a millet crop 299. Cream, method of preserving 37. Crickets, how destroyed 28. Crops, of potatoes, mangel wurtzel, &c. much greater now than thirty years ago 1 — fallow, Mr. Pickering's remarks on 36. Croup, a remccly for 72. Crowninshield Richard, Esq. his remarks on cultivating Woad 387. Cucumber, on cultivating 302, 363. Currants, how propagated 310. Curwen, his remarks on breeds of cattle 362. Cutlery, American, in Pittsburgh, notice of 163. D. Dairy, a remarkable one, near Baltimore 251. Dana, Professor J. F. his remarks on bleaching flax 62 — his account of a disease in neat cattle in Burton, N. H. 105 — notice of his lectures 254. Dana Samuel, Esq. his communication respecting straw for Leghorn hats 212. Dandelions, medical uses of 331. Davis Gideon, notice of his substratum plough 366. Davis Lemuel, his statement relative to raising Indian corn 8, 342. Deane's edition of New F.ngland Farmer, notice of 8. Dentifrice of alum and sage, from Markham's English Housewife 148. Diamonds obtained from charcoal 37 1 . Diarrhoea in cattle 209. Ditching, may be begun in winter 171. Divining rods, remarks on 67. Dogs, distemper in, cure for 73 — the labor thCy per- form in Holland 320. Dog-star and dog-days, origin of those terms 24. Draining lands, Mr. Elkingtnn's mode of 409. Dress, or clothing, useful remarks orf 250 — females' on fire, how managed 142, 282. Drilling .Match in Nova Scotia, account of 412. Drought in the southern states, notice of 40. Drowned persons, directions for recovering 163. Dry rot in timber, cause of, and how prevented 340. Dung too much rotted of no value 393. Hee Manure. E. Eaton Peter, D. D. his address to the Essex Agricultu- ral Society 244. Elder, virtues and uses of 3, 113. juice, kills skippers in bacou, &c. 3, 46. CONTENTS. Embankments, dikes, ic. how constructed for reclaim- ing land from the sea 241. Experimental farms, utility of 154. F. F. his remarks on preparing wool for market 388. Fall fevers, garlic said to preserve against 335. Farmer, on the capital necessary for 13 — signs of a good one 133. Farmer A, his communication recommending the New England Farmer 47 — on a worm that destroys grass 47, 77 — on the best mode of constructing gates 129 — on destroying thirties 280 — on securing potatoes in autumn 354 — on feeding swine with brakes 378. — a Pennsylvania, on farmers who do not work it right ] 17. — a Roxbury, his notice of the products of the season 2, 80, 343. — a young. Sec. on earlv cutting grain, plaster of Pa- ris, &c. 94. Farming societies recommended 219. Farwell, Mr. A. his remarks on making manure from swine 282. Fastening for doors and window shutters 358. Fences should be attended too early in the sprin? 286. Fessenden Thomas G. his address to the Middlesex Society of Husbandmen and Manufacturers 89. i Fever, inflammatory, in cattle 169. Fish, directions for curing 184. Fish oil, or vegetable oil, purified by tan 142. Fiske, Dr. his notice of an excellent breed of swine 107, on attention to the selection of seed 222. \ Flax, remarks on the preparation of, in a letterlfrom S. W. Pomevoy, Esq. to Gov. VVolcott 50— Professor Dana's remarks on bleaching of 62 — machine for dressing 54, 322 — dressed so as to resemble silk 830. Food, plain & good, with little meat, how made 20, 21. Forest trees, observations on 305, 329. Founder in horses, cure for 19. , Fruit, matured by painting walls black 108. ' — trees, a Norfolk Gardener's remarks on 84 — mode of engrafting 121 — observations on, by Rev. Abiel Abbot 141 — by Mr. Abner Landrum 145 — on pro- moting the growth of 170 — to prevent the premature decay of 187 — on pruning 278, 309 — best time and manner of planting 301 — should be pruned in the spring when the buds begin to swell 309 — should be secured against cattle 317 — quere relative to cutting off the fibres in planting 318 — Marshall's directions concerning planting 318 — how protected from frost 322 — how produced by planting cions 331. Fuller's earth, discovered on North River 166 — des cription and uses of 166. G. Gardiner Lyceum, a seminary for the education of me- chanics, notice of 124. Garlic, said to be an antidote to fall fevers 335. Garnet, Mr. his address to the Fredericksburgh Agri- cultural Society 164. Gas, how obtained from oil 118. Gate, on the best mode of constructing 129. German, a, his remarks on taking honey from bees in Germany 322. Gestation, period of in different animals 138. Glass, easy mode of breaking in any direction 131. Gold, on the great ductility of 234 — mine discovered in North Carolina 383. Goodsell's flax machine, recommendations of 339. Gorham, Dr. his analysis of Indian corn 366. Grain, should be cut early 94 — on preserving and im- proving the quality of 297. Grain-sick, a disease in cattle 249. Grapes, mode of propagating 294. Grass, on laying down land to 158. — land, on sowing 278. Grasses, experiments on the evaporation of 235. Gravel, said to be cured by the wild carrot 368. Green crops, on turning in, Mr. Pomeroy's remarks on 9— Mr. Pickering's do. 221. Green-gage, a plum, notice of 19. H. Hale, Hon. S. his address delivered before the Cheshire Agricultural Society 284. Harris, Dr. T. W. his description of and remedy against the caterpillar which destroys grass in salt meadows 238,385. Harris, Rev. T. M. his remarks on destroying insects by lights burning 379. Haslam .lohn, veterinary surgeon, his remarks respect- ing bots in horses 388. Hats, premium, notice of 103— made of spear grass 150. Hay, should be cut or chaffed for feeding cattle 12 should be salted 12, 399— taken off a cart or waggon by hooks 378. Hay-making, observations on 373. Head aches and apoplexy attributed to wearing too tight cravats 366. Hemp, quantity of necessary to fit out a man of war 24. Herdsman, his plan for a cow-house 379. Hessian Fly, Professor Green's remarks on 113 — feed- ing wheat with sheep supposed to be remedy against 347, 351— remarks on 351, 355, 410. H. H. D. a writer with that signature 125. Hoeing corn and garden vegetables, remarks on 389. Honey, description of a mode of taking 347. Honor, modern, ridiculed 147. Hoof-ail in cattle, remarks on and remedies for 225. Hops, on the cultivation of 73, 395. Horn distemper, in cattle, its symptoms & remedy 257. Horse, on the points of 33 — hoofs of described 33— cure of a broken winded 35 — diseases of 45 — power of 148. Horse-rake, description of 389, 398. Horses, how saved from barns on fire 123 — English turf, not a useful breed in the United States 267. Horse shoes, patent, made in two pieces 149. Horse shoeing, new system of 199. Hoven or blown, a disease in cattle, symptoms and remedy 193. Howe Timothy, notice of his threshing machine 363. Hull, Gen. his mode of cultivating carrots and ruta baga 265. Husbandry, axioms in 66, 113. Hydraulics, description of tools used in boring for wa- ter 360. Hydrophobia, fatal instances of 19, 151. I. Ice, how it may be kept in a common cellar 114. Implements in agriculture, new and improved, remarks on 198,205. Indian corn, Mr. Davis' mode of planting 8 — Col. Pick- ering's remarks on 36 — a second crop of 88— boiling it for hogs recommended 108 — how raised by Thom- as Shepiicrd, Esq. 116 — great crops of raised by J. & M. Pratt 117- Col. Valentine's cultivation of 178— too costly food for fatting cattle on 234 — new kind o 265 — Gen. Hull's mode of cultivating 265 — success ful culture of by .John Lees 332 — by Henry Littli 332 — how planted, &c. 341 — remarks on its cultiva tion 341, 342, 365 — on the various modes of prepar ing and using it 348 — how raised for fodder 366— quere whether best to take off the suckers 8, 390— hilling of should not be delayed till haying 397. Indicator, his observations relative to the time of put ting seeds into the ground, to be learned by tin growth of asparagus, &c. 21. Indigo plant, wild, notice of 32. Inflammation in the stomach of cattle 185 — of the live of do. ib. — of the kidneys of do. ib. Insects, remedies against 46, 293, 294 — those whicl destroy fruit trees, remarks on 317 — destroyed b; soap suds 333 — cabbage plants should be guardec against, and how 350 — vines, &c. guarded agains by boxes, &c. 377 — those which destroy Indian con in the field, antidotes against 371,377,378 — destroyei by flying at a light 376. Instinct, animals, remarkable instance of 376. Irrigating lands, remarks on 113, 317. Janes, Mr. his speech in New York legislature on thi bill for repealing the law for the improvement of ag riculture 298. Jaques, Col. notice of his breed of cattle 302, 350. Jaundice in cattle, symptoms and remedy 201. Joint oil, loss of in cattle 257. K. Kenrick John Esq. his remarks on the best time fo felling timber 223, 229, 234. Knight, Mr. A. Adams, report on his crop of osious 178 Knight, Thomas Andrew, ou mildew 414. L. \cc-loom, notice ef 203. , , . i, , M W.lliam Esq. his address before the Agricultural Society of Maine 236. ind, wora out, how renovated by sowing with clorer, and ploughing in the crop J64, 366. tndrum, Mr. Abner, his observations on fruit trees 145. irch tree, notices of 59. . iw, Mr. Thomas, his remarks on burning sod Jib. ■ad colic, account of 270. . adcn pipes, water which has stood in over night should be emptied 40. ;es, Mr. John, his communication respecting the cul- ture of Indian corn 332. ent« in the breeds of cattle 135^u3 communications oa mangel wurtzel and millet 276, 277^ VI Prairy Dog, sketches of-3(J3. Pr'escott, J. Esq. his remarks on the culture ol miugel wurtzel 338. Preston, Samuel, his remarks on ^a^ing; 85 — on graft- ing fruit trees I'il — on clearing laud 172 — on the best mode of manufacturing maple sugar l!i2 — on mill ma- chinery, and the measure of water in mill-races 259 — his communication respecting the workshop of Archim- edes 306 — on the strength and durability of limber 31)6, 354— best time of cutting do. 306— on the moon's influence on vegetation 370. Prince, John, Esq. his remarks on bad winter keeping of cows y4 — his statement respecting agricultural productions 116 — notice of his communication respect- ing insects in peach trees and other fruit trees 333. Proctor, J. VV. Esq. his notice of agricultural experi- ments in Essex county 144. Pumpkins, recommended as food for horses 134 — re- marks on their cultivation 365. Putnam, Col. Jesse, description of his premium farm 324. Q. Quincy, Hon. Josiah, description of his farm 2 — his ex- position of the faults of farmers, as respects the econ- omy of barn yards and stercoraries 29. R. Race Ox, an account of one 136. Radish, how cultivated 294. Rats and Mice, how extirpated 37. Rattle Snake, bite of, how cured 29. Ileceipts, Fhdian meal the best cosmetic for ladies com- plexions 3 — infusion of elder leaves preserves against insects ib. — several different mode sof making bread 4. for making yeast 5 — substitute for yeast ib to pre- vent the bite of musquitoes ib. — for making currant •wine 6 — to take the rancid taste from butter 12 — to make butter from scalded cream ib. — for curing but- ter ib. — to fine and clarify beer ib. — several for mak- ing Ruta Baga puddings 12 — for founder in horses 19 — potatoe pudding 20 — potatoe bread ib. — for cud lost by an ox or cow 21 — for American Tokay 21 — for destroying ants and spiders 28 — for destroyin" crickets ib. — against vermin that infest swine ib. — for the bile of the rattle snake, or other venomous animal 29 — for the cholera morbus ib. — for destroy- ing white weed ib. — for destroying the Canada this- tle 30 — for the ague ib — for a broken winded horse 35 — severla for preserving meats 37 — for preserving cream 37 — to prevent bottled cider from bursting 37 — to prevent skippers in bacon 37 — to extirpate rats and mice 37 — for making cider ib. — for dysentery and bilious disorders .37 — to make salt butter fresh 06 — to cure tainted meat ib. — to preserve meat ib. — to de- stroy bed bugs ib. — to destroy the bee miller 67 — to cure the croup 72 — for making green grape wine 34 — to make Champagne from grapes equal to foreign wine 94 — for (tUtening hogs 113 — to prevent bees being de- sToyed by the worm 108 — to prevent cattle from dis- ease in winter ib. — to render washing easy ib. — to preserve potatoes and fruit ib. — to prepare a pickle or brine for beef 110 — to preserve eggs ii). — for preserv- ing iron and steel from rust 115 — for weaving mats ib. — for making jelly for calves 122 — to make hay-tea for calves ib. — to make good butter from the milk of cows fed on turnips 123 — for the scab in sheep 123 — to preserve potatoes which are frozen 123 — for pick- ling beef 130 — my grand-mother's pickle 130 — for a cement designed as paint for the roofs of houses 131 for breaking glass in any required direction 13! — for making rice glue 139 — to remove fruit stains or iron mould from linen or cotton cloths or other substanrr s 141 — antidote against contagion 141 — substitute for yeast ib. — for preserving lemon juire, or lime ib. — for purifying putrid wati-r ib. — for purifying glass vessels ib. — for frei-ing wells from fixed air ib. — the best mode of ad.nini-tering opium ih. — for preserving hors- es feet wlien ploughing among lime ib. — for the puri- fication of li at least as requi- site in agriculture, as in any of the tiner but less useful arts. The head must direct the hand of hiisbandry ; and in cultivating the earth, the mo-t incessant toil, without the guidance of knowledge, and the superintendance of intellect, is of little avail. The science of agriculture is in a great degree founded on experience. It is therefore of consequence that every farmer should know what has been done, and what is doing iiy others engaged in the ^ame occupa- tion, and that he should impart to others the fruits of his own experiments and observations. Knowledge of this description can in no way be .so cheaply, beneficially and generally ditlused as by newspapers chielly devoted to those top- ics wl'.ich are particularly and appropriately in- teresting to the cultivators of the soil. Publications of this kmd have been found to be of great utility in Europe and in the United States. The Jlmcrican Farmer, at Baltimore, and the Plough Boij, at Albany, ably conducted and liberally patronized agricultural papers, have rendered services to the country ivhich are generally and highly appreciated. 'ITiose papers, however, cannot be so conveniently circulated in New England as a similar publi- cation might if printed in its Metropolis. Be- sides, the matter contained in those papers is not always adapted to the soil and climate of the E:istern States ; and communications proper for an agricultural paper cannot be transmitted several hundreds of miles without more delay, ri.sque and expense, than most are willing to encounter, with no other remuneration than a prospect of benefit to the public. The New England Farmer will be edited by a gentleman of science, conversant with the practice as well as the theory of husbandry. — The proprietor has likewise been promised the assistance of several gentlemen who have been distinguished for successful experiments and a- ble essays calculated to improve the agriculture of New England. Although this paper will be principally de- voted to Agriculture, it will likewise contan a concise summary of news, and .sketches of top- ics common to newspapers in general. Indied, as a mere vehicle of intelligence, without refer- ence to it& agricultural contents, it is prcsuwed it will prove more useful to country subscribers than those papers which are nearly filled with ship news, mercantile advertisements, &c. ot little or no value to those who live at a distance frMn our sea-ports. And the proprietor engages that no more than one fourth p.;rt of his paper shall, in any case, bo filled with advertisement? ; and in genera! a still smaller portion of it will be occupied by advertising customers. Party ptditics, and polemical divinity shall be like- wise absolutely excluded from the colunuis of the New England Farmer. Afassackusetts Agricultural Repository end Journal. Wc know of no pulilication so well deserving of lib- eral patronage and general diffusion among an a^fi icul- tural c-mmunity, as the above named. We have turn- ed over the leaves of many works of a similar nature issued on either side of the Atlantic, but have seen none, which we think contains, in proportion to its quantity of matter, so much to be remembered and practisi/d upen as tiie subject of this noticei Some for- (■ign joarnals which we have seen, contain articles more elabon.tely written, but at the same time they are gen- erally more speculative, and less useful. Good Sense, Science and Agricultural Experience are exhibited in every number of the Massachusetts Journal, and by their union give results, which cannot fail to benefit that portion of an enlightened community for whose use they are more immediately intended. Wc shall not attempt to write a review of this Jour- nali but merely to give such notices of its contents, as we hope may induce such of our subscribers as are not in possession of its numbers to procure them for their own benefit, as well as to assist in the diffusion of the most useful kind of useful knowledge for the benefit of (he public. The number for June, 1822, commences witli '• Re- mnrks on the TtKtnner lit. n-hich this Journal is roiulitct' (rf, fi7id the Tides by vhich tht committee entrusted n-ith the publication are governed. By J. L. one of that Com- mittee.'''' We shall here give some extracts from this paper, which appear to us of general importance, though made with reference to a particular subject. " The Committee appointed for the publica- tion of the Journal do not consider themselves as in any degree responsible lor the correctness of the statements, or the soundness of the theo- ries of the various writers, whose essays they publish. Their rule is to admit every essay, which appears to contain any new hint in rela- tion either to Agriculture or Horticulture. It is manifestly impossible for them to judge of the correctness in point of fact, of any statement made by a correspondent, and they have believ- ed, that a more free and unreserved communi- cation of all Agricultural experiments, whether the conclusions drawn from them are erroneous or not, is of great use. The cautious farmer, if he is struck w ith their novelty, may try them lor himself," S:c. " It is true that with respect to many subjects intimately connected with the prosperity of our agriculture, our Journal during the last thirty years has contained a great number of opposite, and irreconcileable opinions. But iliis ought not to diminish the public confidence, since it is avowed to be conducted on the principles of free enquiry, and since it is not more liable to this objection than all similar works, published in this or in the European world. Men of sci- ence are found to differ on most essential points. How many theories liaTC been published, bare prevailed lor a titiif, and haie goue into obliv- ion ill the important science of medicine ! How materially bus cht-niicr,! science changed, not only since the time of i^riestly and Black, but since it was siqiposed to be irrevocably fixed by Lavoisier and the French chemists of his school ! How groat are the divisions of theoretical opin- ion among the Geologists, the Wernerians and liuttonians !" Wc give the preceding with a view in part to solicit the indulgence of the reader, should our Journal, (as it doubtless will,) exhibit opposite theories and clashing opinions. Ligh» is often elicited by the col- lision of opaque bodies, and the publication of errone- ous theories, will sometimes lead to their refutation anci the consequent developement of important principles in science, and the discovery of useful processes in art. Notwithstanding, however, the difference of opinion, and mutable practices of modern agriculturists. Agri- culture on the whole is rapidly improving. Mr. Low ell, observes, " We undertake to say, that thirty years since it would liave been believed impossible to raise, as Mr, Hunnewell of Newton did 112 bushels of Indian Corn to an Acre — and I distinctly recollect that when the first accounts in the Bath agricultural papers reach- ed us that they had raised 500 and even 900 bushels of potatoes per acre, it was deemed, if not a fable, yet art experiment peculiar to Great Britain and its soil and climate and not to be looked for among us." " Still we have seen that in all parts of our country individuals have succeeded in raising from 450 to .51)0 bushels per acre of this invalu- able root. We have seen that the cultivation of other rnots to aid the sup])ort of cattle during the winter has advanced much faster with us, considering the late period in which we under- took it than in any part of Europe. We hear, not occasionally but constantly, every year, of GOO or 700 bushels of Mangel Wurtzel, or the \vhife beet-^of 500 bushels of the Iluta baga or Swedish turnip per acre, and our cattle are and must be of course better fed, and eventual- ly highly improved."' The improvements in the different breeds of cattle, which have been the results of modern husbandry are not less remarkable than the increase of crops. A friend lias informed us that " In the Picture of London, for the present year, it is stated, that about the year 1700, the average weight of oxen, killed for the Lon- don market was 370 lbs j of calves 50 lbs ; of sheep 28 lbs ; and of lambs 18 lbs. The average weight at pre- sent is, of oxen 000 lbs ; calves 1 40 lbs ; sheep 80 lbs ; and lambs 50." Could a comparison be made between the present average weight of cattle and sheep, sold in our market, and the average weight of the same sorts sold 40 years since, we believe the improvement would be visible and striking. Still, much remains to be learn- ed in the art of breeding and fattening cattle, and ev- ery step facilitates further progress to a degree of ulti- mate perfection of which at present wc form no ade- quate idea. The i%Titer of the article alluded to is of opinion that it is better economy to plant at least middle sized po- tatoes, or cut potatoes, equal in size to those than either to use for planting small potatoes, or to cut the large potatoes into small parts, to scoop out tlie eyes, or take only the sprouts. Tlie Hon. Josiah Quiucy in a letter, published in the Massachusetts Agricultural Re- NEW ENGLAND ^ARMER. pository, vol. v. p. 64, giic llic details of an experi- ment with cut potatoes, and whole potatoes planted in the same field, in adjoining rows, which resulted great- ly in favor of the v/hole potatoes. In this ca?e it ap- pears that fact and theory coincide, for, as Mr. Lowell well observes " the polatoe is by nature formed to fur- nish from its fleshy and watery root the food for the young shoots." It is doubtless the juice of the planted potatoe which enables the young )>l;mt to endure enWy drought better than most other articles of field culture, while a la!t drought, which assails thcia after the pa- ternal root has parted ^i'ith its supply of nourishment proves very injurious to the crop. Adverting incidentally to Hedge Fences, Mr. Lowell has the following remarks : '• When the Hon. Mr. Qiiincj' jmblUheJ hi? oxperinients on Hedge phmlinjr for fences they (the Trustees] were aware that it would not he of much value except on farms destitute: like liis of natural materials for stone walls. In the sandy territory of the old Colony it may be of extensive use, but on farms fuch an 1 know, ivhere the rocks must be got oiit before the plough can move ; where they must be carted to a great distance if not used for waif-, where, in short, v.'alls are the cheapest mode of disposing of tbte stones, it is excellent husbandry so to ap- ply them." " In relation to the species of thorn recom- mended by Mr. Qnincy, truth and long cxperi- raent enable and require me to say, that th'' Virginia thorn so much rccoinineiuhd by Mr. Maine, from whose account ]\lr. Qiunry very properly introduced and recommended it, is not by any means the be=t adapted for general use, for quick or live hedges. !t is too a]it to run iip, and not sufficiently prone to throw out strong lateral shoots, and it is believed, that ei- ther the common Wbito Hawthorn of I'.nerlnnd, or even our own, New England Cockspur thorn is better adapted for this purpose. Wo make these remarks not with a view of diminishing the merit of Mr. C^uincy in making these exper- iments, and communicating them, but simply to make it known, that what we publish is intend- ed merely as hit^ts which others may follow or pursue, and we feel bound to state from time to lime, any doubts which may occur to us on the subject, or any opposite experience. " We have br:en m.ore free in speaking of the limited extent to which thorn hedges can be carried in the stony and rocky country of New I'lngland, and the defects of the variety of the Ihorn tir-t introduced because v.-e are ready to say, and say it cordially, that we think all that portion of otir country, which resembles the es- tate of Mr. C^uincy, such as a pari of Kssex, Middlesex, Plymouth, Bristol, and «oine of the land? on Connecticut river will tlnnlly derive great benefit from the introdudion of lire fen- ces. They arc 3'et in their infan'"",', and to Mr. Quincv we owe their introduction. It Will be many years before the}' will be extensively tised, but they will we presume eventually be intro- iluced in all countries where stones cannot be t'ound. and he will I trust have the credit of in- ir'oducing them, a credit which will increase as they shall be extended. They are very beau- fit'iil. They give; an air of cultivation to the landscape — they shelter the cro])s, and produce a'oreneral effect of which no man, who has not seen the dvHerence lietween French and Eng- lUh scenery can have any adequate conception." (to BI; tO.\Tl.M EI'.) From the Ma^s. Agricultural Repository for June. Comparison of the present with some past seasons. We have for several years published such a comparison, and farmers and general readers hav- ing expressed a certain degree of pleasure from the statement we continue it. It certainly may be made of some use, if cultivators, instead of consulting the Almanack, will attend to tlic in- dications of nature. Certain plants wiW not flower till the earth has arrived at a given de- gree of temperature. They vary from five to twenty d.ays in the time of flowering in iliflerent seasons. If, therefore, as to the tenderer plants, the Indian corn, squash, pumpkin and melon, we should re- solve to plant them, not at a determinate peri- od of the year, but when we should tunl by the flowering- of certain plants, that the soil is so warm as to endanger their rotting in the earth, wo think some good would be attained. We sliall take a few plants as a specimen, and compare the present season with some oi the earliest during the last nine years. T!ic Cherry opened its blossoms in ISl^JMay 10th— 1815. May 10th— 1816, May CUh— isiS, May nth— 1C2U, May Qd— I82Q, iilay !=». Jhpnragns \\;\s fit for the t;d>le for the first lime in 181r3, .May Mth— 181.5, May Gth— 1816, .May 51h— 181R, May 1.5— 18;:o, May 1st— 1B22, May 1st. It should be remarked that the .As- paragus was cut from the same bed in each year — a bed was planted S3 years since, and never changed, and one which has been constantly groiving better — :m important fact in horticul- ture. Pkni!: v,-ere first in flcivcr in the year 1815,' May 14th — 1G17, M.nv 7th — 1819, May 13th — 1821, May nth— 1822, May '1th. Fenrs began to blow for the lirst time in 18I3< Mav 20th— 1815, May IClh— 1817, May 7lh— 1819, May 1 7th— 1 820, May 9th— 1 822, May 5th. jlppks first showed their open flowers, in 1813, .ATav 23d— 1816, May 18th— 1817, May 12lh— 1819, Mav 19th— 1820, May 11th— 1822, Mav 9th. If will lio seen by this table,, that the present season is the earliest on the whole vvhich we have had for nine years. There is, however, a manifest difterence be- tween the relative times of flonering of the dif- f'cnu' plant" in the several jcar . ; and this is rea/lily accounted for by the circumstance, that a single turn of cold weather v.ill check the pro- gross of all plants, and the season which may have produced lb" earliest floivers on the Apri- cot, the earliest of our fruits, may not be earlier than usual in producing flowers on the Ap])!e. To give one practical rule which we believe niiy be of some use, wc should say, that when the ,\pple tree floivers we may safely (be it sooner or later) venture to put our corn, .squash- es and melons into Iho earth. This season v/as the earliest as to the open- ing of the ground known on my place for 16 years. I ])lanted potatoes and pe;ts on the 7th of March, .'iftcen days earlier than I was ever able to do it before — but as I have often before renr.irked, all these diilereiices disappear as the season advances, and on the whole I doubt whether the present sea.soa i.s in advance more than four or live days of that of common years. It however has been a great relief to the .abor I of the larmcr- — bis season of labor has been ex- tended this year at least three weeks in this vi- cinity, and this is of great value to him. Th^' show of blossoms in all kinds of fruit is very good, nearly double to that of the last year. — The present cool v.ealher is highly beneficial to the fruit. Wc had a very severe frost on the 6th inst. which in low grounds injured ear- ly potatoes, but the damage on the whole was not great. If we can escape another for one week more, we may presume on a fruitful year. The prospect of grass is at this moment abovt- that of ordinary years. A IIOXBURY FARMER From the J^'iw England Galari;. JcDCE QriKCY's Farm. — We have heard that Mr Quincy v.as a praclicnl as well as theoretical farmer, and it is well known that hi« talents have been induE- triously employed in raising the standard of agricultu- ral excellence in the neighborhood of Boston, but wc do not recollect to have seen any description of liis fann, or his mode of cuUivating it, till the following, for which we are indebted to Mr. Stone's " Extracts from a Gentleman's Port Folio." .ludg." Q,uincy, in addition to his professional duties, is a theoretical and practical farmer ; and I have taken the liberty of introducing the. name of this distinguished gentleman because there i- a part of his system which v.as entirely novel to me. and which I thiixli. should be more extensively known, as 1 feel persuaded that ma- ny of our agriculturalists may profit by it. His farm is extensive and surrounded by a flourish- ing hawthorn hedge ; but there is not an inte- rior fence on the premises. The whole pre- sents a single field, devoted to all the various purposes of agricidture. No part of it is allot- ted to piigture, as his cattle are fed in their stalls, andtiever suffered to run in the field. The ad- yanfaiccs of this system are thus given : Former- ly there were seven miles of interior fences to be kept in repair, and by keeping the cattle up, the V hole of this expense is saved. Formerly sixty acres of this farm, were devoted to pas- turage ; but now a greater number of cattle by one t'lird, are kept upon the products of twenty acres ; and I never saw cattle in better case. The saving by this means is enormous, and that immense advantages arise from it, is too appa- rent to be dwelt upon. During the summer the cattle are fed upon grass, green oats or barley, cut up the day previousl)-. and suffered to wilt in the sun ; and the manure, which is thus sav- ed, will more than jiay for the extra trouble anil exi)ense. The farm is highly cultivated, anil everj' kind of grain and vegetables grown in the country, appeared to have a place. The cultivation of carrots it was said was found very profitable, and, I passed a lot of live acres. — Near this were also several acres of cabbage- ruta baga, mangel v/urtzel, millet, kc. he. — Judtre Q. has also an extensive salt manufacto- ry, cf 175 cisterns or vats, which, however, he contfmplatcs soon to enlarge. The salt water is ptjmped by wind, and is let otT from one vat to ajother — first depositing the sediment, and. then the sulphate or carbonate of lime, until it beccmes pure, when it is suffered to stand and evaporate by the heat of the sun. The crj'stal- lizalions, form on the top and settle to the bot- tom. I have preserved a beautiful specimen. One man attends the \\ hole of this concern. — Tlie residence of Judge Q. is a charming situa- tion. The house is a neat and spacious build- ing, and the grounds, varied in surface and seen- NEW ENGLAND FARMER. ery, tastefully laid out anil richly ailorncil. It is agreeable to perceive gentlemen of such dis- tinguished talents and literary attainments, toil- ing-^ thus to promote the real interests of the country, and affording practical proofs, that the pursuits of agriculture are neither servile nor derogatory. From the Hampshire Gazette. Sweet Com. — A writer in the Plymouth pa- per asserts that sweet com was not known in New England, until a gentleman of that place, who was in Gen. Sullivan's expedition against the Indians in 1779, brought a icw cars to Ply- mouth, which he found among the Indians on the borders ?£ the Susqueh.annah. This writer says that if the ears are picked from the stalks for seed, the produce will assimilate to our com- mon corn, but if the seed ears be selected from the suckers, the corn will not loose its peculiar qualities. Cotton. — Several experiments arc now mak- ing in New York and Connecticut, to ascertain whether cotton can be raised in this northern climate. Some plants in Albany are now in blos- som. .4 Cosmetic for ladies complexions, said to be superior to all other washes. — Put over the fire a pint of water, and when it boils stir in fine In- dian meal enough to make it a paste ; let the ladies use this paste instead of soap every time they wash themselves. If a spoonful of honey and a little rose water are stirred into it when cooling, it will be still better. Lightning. — Wet clothes are good conductors of lightning, and if a flash in its way to the ground, should strike a person's head, whose clothes are wet, it will run in the wet clothes over the surface of the bod}', whereas if the clothes were dry, it would go through the body and occasion death. It is stated in a London paper of 30th May, that among the rewards presented the day be- fore by the society for the encouragement of manufactures, &c. was " the large silver medal and twenty guineas,'' to Mrs. Wells, of Weath- ersfield, Conn, for her imitation Leghorns. From the Boston Gazette. ' Copperas water is a cheap and certain des- truction to bugs, which cannot be too generally known. It is said, that if horses be rubbed down with chesnut-tree leaves, in the morning, they will not be annoyed by flies during the day. United States^ Lead Mines. — A notice from the War Department is published in the western papers, offering to receive proposals, at the of- lice of the Ordnance Department, for Ifasing any of the lands of the U. States containing mines of lead, upon an annual rent of one tenth of the product of the mines, to be deposited, in pure lead, in a store-house on the ground. The leas- es hot to be for more than three years, and not for a quantity of land to any individual or com- pany, exceeding three hundred and twenty a- cres, &,c. Leases may be renewed at the expi- ration of three years, at the option of the gov- ernment, reserving the right to raise the rent, but not to a higher rent than one fifth of the product. The advertisement is dated at the Ordnance Department, Jime 15th, p'rom the American Fanritr. SKIPPERS IJ^ BJiCOJV, give much trouble to houser:i.nves in the country. It has been discovered, by a female corres- pondent in the coimtry, from whom we have received several useful communications, that skippers in bacon may be effectually and speed- ily destroyed by the use of elder juice, but the e.ract manner of preparing and applying it, are not described. This ought always to be done in giving receipts — the field is yet open for numberless useful discoveries in all the dei>art- ments of rural and domestic economy. Since writing the above, we have the follow- ing more particular account from our esteemed correspondent : " Last year we lost at least one third of our ham meat, by the skippers, notwithstanding ev- ery attention, but never destroyed the skippers while the meat lasted. Our neighbours were, in this respect, as unfortunate as ourselves. " This spring, knowing that our meat had been well smoked, and the weather being dry, we neglected airing it as customary, until our old enemy the skipper returned, and had eaten it smartly. Sister, who attends to it h.ad it ex- amined, scraped and sunned ; (no one can bo more particular.) In a week after, she had it examined and foinid that there were nearly as many skippers as at first : you ma^' suppose, af- ter the loss we suffered last year, we wore very anxious to destroy this troublesome insect. I had known for many years, that elder juice would destroy maggots. If a hog, sheep, or anj' other animal gets wounded, and the flies get to the wound, they will create maggots ; by ivash- ing the wound with elder juice, they will roll out b}' hundreds, if there be so many in it. I proposed therefore to try it on our bacon. The leaves were accordingly beat in a mortar, add- ing a little water ; the flesh side of the meat was rubbed with the leaves thus bruised, and in three weeks after, the meat was re-examined, and the skippers utterly destroyed. The applica- tion here described, does not in the least degree communicate any bad taste to the meat. I liave little doubt, that this, with m.iny other simple applications within the reach of every house- keeper, might be applied to many other useful purposes, if proper pains were taken to make the trial. If such homely communications, on such homely subjects, are admissible in the Am- erican Farmer, you can publish what 1 have written, as you know 3 ou can depend on its ac- curacy, and 1 shall be amply paid for my trouble by what I know I shall receive, the thanks of many A HOUSEKEEPER. We believe that the virtues of elder are less known and appreciated than they ouglit to be. Mr. Dcane's Georgical Dictionary states that Christoplier Gullet, Esq. liad made some experiments, which were commu- nicated to the Royal Society, of which the following is a brief account : " He wliipt calibagcs gently with green boughs of elder, just at the time when the butterflies appeared, after which, tliough they hovered over them, tliey were never obseriied to touch tliem. He whipt the limbs of a plumb tree as high as he could reach. That part remained green and flourishing ; but all above shriv- elled up, and was full of worms. He concluded that if a tree were sprinkled with an infusion of elder, once a week or fortnight, it would effectually preserve it without injuring the tree or the fruit. He prevented the yellows in wheat, which is caused by an insect, by brusliing the v.luat ivith elder ; and preserved a bed of j-oung cauliflowers. He prefers the dwarf cider as it emits the strongest effiuvium. " Perhaps, it may be found, as this writer sugrgfufs, to preserve turnips Horn tiie fly, and these and other plants from grasshoppers and ail other insects," A frienrl of (lie Editor, stated to us tiiat he had used an infusion of eider leaves as a preservative against the small yellowish bugs, which infest cucumber vines, squash vines, &c. and he believes with complete suc- ce?.i, as the bugs ceased to devour the plants from the time the infusion was applied. It was rather late in the season, however, before the application was made, and it is possible that the bugs had fmiihed their year's v/ork of niirchief before they v.-ere disturbed by the el- der infusion. We hope that further trials ^ill be mado^ Carelessness. — Negligent nmsters and mistrcsr- e? arc considered as lawful prey by their domes- tics ; and those v>-ho arc proverbially easy in the management of pecuniary and economical concerns, are at once cheated and despised for a disposition, v.hich, however it may engage t!io affection and esteem of candid and enlightened characters, seldom fails to excite the rapacity of those who are possessed of That lov/ cunning, which in fools supplies, And ami)ly too, the place of being vvise. good A man v.ho had been a zealous parfizan, in politics, but had shifted his course so often that he sometimes strayed so far from the lines of demarcation which separated one party from another that he could not always say which side he belonged to, was asked, v, hat made him turn his coat so often ? He rcplieil that " one turn deserves another." Gunpowder and Brandy. — An office in the gov- ernment of Sat:ni, being once upon a time va- cant, '■'■ the prince of the pjoiiser of the oiV," con- vened a counsel, when it ivas proposed, that on the trial of the skill and abilities of the two de- mons, he who Caused the most misery on earth and brought the greatest number of mortals to the regions of despair, should fill the vacant of- fice and be first in authority. One went in the shape of Gunpowder, the. other that of brandy, rum, gin, 4-c. the former was an open enemy and roared with a terrible noise. This made the folks to be afraid, and put them on their guard. But the other passed as a friend and a physician, pretended to make them strong and healthy, was at all the merry makirigs, frolicks and entertainments. By these means he caused them to be off their guard ; and at length to become his most willing ser- vants, and that too, " for the wages of death."" Under the "notion" of helping digestion, com- forting the spirits, and cheering the heart, he produced the direct contrary effects. — And, havii/g insensibly thrown great numbers into a fatal decay, he was found to people hell and the grave so fast, as to merit the office, in prefer-- ence to him who went among the people in the shape of gunpowder, Lft week a young man with a slight obstruc- tion n his speech, came into our office to pur-, chase a book — the price happening to be a few. pence bej'ond his means, we told him we wouldj i'urn'sh him with a copy a little torn. Not find- . ing one, however, as we expected, he very hon- . estiv remarked, that '• wc might t-f-t tear anoth-- er." The joke w;i3 certainly worth something, '. and we instantly furnished him with a :c.'.c.'c co-, py. — .Ydniunket Inipnrer. NEW ENGLAND FARMER. BREAD. There is, perhaps, no subject connected witli Do- mestic F.conomy of more importance tlian the manufac- ture of Bread. We have therefore thoug-lit it might prove acceptable to our readers to present them with some recipes for composing the Sififf of Lift ,- and should any of our friends or patrons be in possession of any bet- ter methods of an?v/ering the same purpose, they will oblige us, and, we hope, do the public a service by communicating them for publication in our paper. I. To a peck of flour add a handful of salt, a pint of yeast, and three (juarts of water : the whole, being kneaded in a bowl or troug^h will vise in about an hour ; it is then moulded into loaves, and put into the oven. For Frencii bread, they take half a bushel of fine flour, ten fjgs, and a pound and a half of fresh butter, into v/hich they put the same quantity of yea-:t, and tempering- the whole mass with new milk pretty hot, leave it half an hour to rise, after which they make it into loaves or rolls, and wash it over with an egg beaten with milk : care is taken that the oven be not too hot. II. Potatoes, mixed in various quantities with flour, make a wholesome, nutritive, and pleas- ant bread. Kliogg, who has been styled the rustic Socrates, recommends, that potatoes well boiled and carefully peeled, should be put into a kneading trough, covered with boiling water, and bruised till they be converted into a kind of soup of equal consistence throughout. A half, a third, or a fourth, of this souj), mixed with the flour of wheat, makes a bread of an excellent taste, and extremely salutary and nutritive. III. M. Duduit de Maizicros, a French officer of the king's household, invented and practised with the greatest success, a method of makin,'^-; bread of common apples, very far superior to potatoe bread. After having boiled one third of peeled ajjples, he bruised them while quite warm, into two thirds of flour, including tlie quantity of leaven, and kneaded the whole with- out water, the juice of the fruit being quite ^uflicient. When this mixture had acquired the consistency of paste, he put it into a vessel in which he allowed it to rise for about tv/elve hours. By this process he obtained a very sweet bread, full of eyes, and extremely light. IV. At Debritzin, in Hungary, excellent bread is made by the following process without yeast : Two large handfuls of hops are boiled in four quarts of water ; this is poured upon as much wheaten bran as it will moisten, and to this are added four or five pounds of leaven. When the mass is warm, the several ingredients are work- ed together till well mixed. It is then deposit- ed in a warm place for twenty four hours, and afterwards divided into small pieces about the size of a hen's egg, which ar^,- dried by being placed upon a board, and exposed to a drv air, but not to the sun; when dry they are laij up for use, and may be kept half a year. The ferment, thus prepared, is applied in the, fol- lowing manner : For baking six large lowes, six good handfuls of these balls are dissolvod in seven or eight quarts of warm water ; this'wa- tcr is poured through a sieve into one enfl of the bread trough, and after it three quarts ol warm water ; the rcmainmg mass being well pressed out. The liquor is mixed with Hour, sulficient to fonn a mass of the size of a lar"e loaf; this is strewed over with flour; the sieve with its contents, is put upon it, and the whole is covered up warm, and left till it has risen enough, and its surface h;is begun to crack : this t'orms the leaven. Fifteen quarts of warm water, in which six handfuls of salt have been dissolved, are then poured upon it through the sieve ; the necessary quantity of flour is added, and mixed and kneaded with the leaven ; this is covered up warm, and left for about half an hour; it is then formed into loaves, which are kept for another half hour in a warm room; and after that they are put into an oven, whore they remain two or three hours, according to their size. One great advantage attends this kind of ferment, that it may be made in large quantities at a time, and kept for use ; and, on this account, it might be convenient on board of ships, or in camps for armies in the field. V. The carbonate of magnesia, [common magnesia of the shops] when well mixed with new flour, in the proportion of from 20 to 10 grains to a pound of flour materially improves it lor the purpose of making bread. Loaves, made with the addition of the carbonate of mag- nesia rise well in the oven ; and after lieing baked the bread is light and spongy, has a good taste, and keeps well. In cases where the new flour is of an inditferent quality from 20 to 30 grains of magnesia to a pound of flour will con- siderably improve the bread, When the flour is of the worst quality 40 grains to a pound of flour is necessary to produce the same effect. As the improvement of the bread depends upon the magnesia, it is necessary that care should be taken to mix it intimately with the flour previous to making the dough. A pound of carbonate of magnesia would be sufficient to mix with two hundred and fifty six pounds of now flour at the rate of 30 grains to a pound. ^'I. To every live pounds of flour add one pound of rice that has been previously boiled to a jelly over a slow fire ; then, when luke vvarni, add your usual quantity of yeast, and make u[) your bread. Should 3'ou judge your jelly to be too thick add luke warm water; a method by which thirty pounds of flour and six of rice produce eighteen loaves, each four pounds and an half weight Five pounds of flour produce eight pounds of bread ; but with the addition of a pound of rice twelve and an half. VII. In order to make bread of turnips the following method is recommended in the -'.V/k- scniin, rusticum commsrcialc.^'' an English work. When turnips are plentiful, a number of them should be pulled, washed clean, pared and boil- ed. When they are soft enough lor being mashed, the greatest part of the water should be pressed out of them, and they should then be mixed with an equal quantity in weight of coarse wheat meal. The dough may then be made in the usual manner, with yeast or barm. salt, water, &c. It will rise well in the trough ; aiwl after being well kneaded, it may be formed into loaves, and put into the oven to be baked. The person who made this experiment had other bread made with common meal in the ordinary method. The turnip Ijread was baked rather longer than the other. When they were drawn from the oven, a loaf of each sort was cut ; and upon exannnation, the turnip bread was sweet'-r than the other, not less light and white, with a slight, but not disagreeable taste of the turnip. When it was tasted twelve hours al'ter, this taste was scarcely perceptible, and the sm^dl was quite gone off.' After an in- terval of twenty-four hours, it could not be known that it had any turnips in its composi- tion, although it still had a peculiar sweetish taste. After twenty-four houi-s, it appeared to be rather superior to bread made only of wheat tlour ; it was fresher and moister ; and after a week it was still very good. VIlj. When wheat has grown or germinated, before it is ground, as often happens in wet i seasons, magnesia, soda or some other alkaline | substance .seems indispensable to make good bread. An Knglish writer in the I>ancaster Gazette, 181G, mentions his having tried the following mixtures with flour froJiiivheat which had germinated, which, if used without the al- kali took twice the usual time, and when baked became a hard thick crust, elevated like a roof over a glutinous saccharine paste, the specific gravity of which was greater than water. 1st. Take new llour, two pounds; soda two drachms. 2d. Take new flour, two pounds : soda one drachm. 3d. Take new flour, three pounds ; old do. one pound ; soda two drachms. 4th. Take new flour, three pounds ; old do. one pound ; ground rice, half a pound ; soda two drachms. 5th. Take new flour, two pounds ; old do. one pound and an half; soda one drachm. The soda was dissolved in the water in which the flour was to be mixed, and the yeast added in the usual way. RESULTS. Nos. 1 and 2 were pleasant tasted bread, similar to brown bread ; it was friable, very buoyant in water, and tilled like a sponge ; it gained nearly one third, but No. 2 was better bread than No. 1 ; and this is well worth at- tending to, since it proves that with this flour half the quantity of soda produced the best ef- fect, a circumstance that is of importance in an economical point of view. No. 3 was better bread than Nos. 1 and 3, and it was but little inferior to the bread pro- cured iVom our old flour, when the alkali was not used. No. 4 wa.s heavier than the preceding, but was baked in a tin pan. No. 5 was also baked in a tin ; it was as good bread as that made wholly with the old flour ; but it was not very easy to distinguish Nos. 3, 4 and 5, from each other. From these experiments it appears that by thirty grains of .soda, a pound of the new flour, wliichas loaf bread Nould nut ottien'-ise be eatable, will make about a pound and an half of very pleasant tasted wholesome loaf bread. n.£MARHS ON THE FOREGOI.VG. The four first of the foreg^oiiig^ recipes -were taken from the Edinburgh Encyclopajdia. The fifth has been proved )y an experiment made within the knowledge of the Editor, to be useful. The sixth, seventh and eighth r«st upon ncwspaptr authority only. Perhaps it mightibe well to mix flour from new, or damaged wheat, with lime water, as a substitute for soda or the oilier alkaline substances mentioned above. The ex- pense cf lime water would be very trifling, as lime re- quires no less than 700 times its weight of water to effect its entire solution, and a single handful of quitl; liaic tlu'owa into a b^re! of water, or any l"ss quantity NEW ENGLAND FARMER. ,'hich may be wautej, will be sufficient. U will re- uire some hours for lime wat..[-, thus prepared, to •ttle, so as to become sufficiently clear for use, when should be carefully poured from the sediment. We 0 not pretend to vouch for the efficacy of limc-watei; lus prepared, and made use of. We JUerely suggest le thing as worth an experiment. YEAST. The following methoils of maldng Yeast have been commended, but we have never known their eljicacy sted by actual experiment. Take a quantity of hops suitable to the quali- ty of yeast vou intend to make, boil them well, id strain off the water in which they are boil- i ; into this water stir a suitable quantity of uur, and consiiierable salt, and then add to this proportionate quantity of sjood yeast ; let this ass rise as much as it will ; then stir in fine ulian meal till it is so thick that it can be made to small cakes of the size of a dollar or larger, ■^hen the cakes are thus made, dry them in the n till they are hard, mindin? to turn them equently to prevent their moulding', and then V them by, in a dry place, for use. When you wish to have yeast, take one of ese cakes, crumble it to pieces, pour warm iter on it, and let it stand in a warm place, d it will soon rise sufliciently to make good ast. A quantity of these cakes may be thus ide at once, which will last for six months more. ™ Art of making Yeast tsith Peas in Persia. Take a small tea cup or win.e glass full of it or bruised peas, pour on them a pint of iling water, and set the whole in a vessel all fht on the hearth, or in any other warm ice ; this water will be a good yeast, and ve a froth on its top the next morning. In s cold climate, especially in a cold season, it )uld stand longer to ferment ; perhaps twentj ir or fortj-eigiit hours. The above quantity) 's Mr. Eaton, made for me as much bread ;b lalf quartern loaf, the quality of which wap ry good and light. It may be necessary thai, i, I this country in winter it should be put to )ro- 1 ment in a coo) oven. Substitute for YeasU L patent was granted, in England, to Mr. Richard Iyer Blunt for his new invented composition to be d instead of Yeast. The substance of the speciiica- i, according to the Repertory of Arts, is as follow; To make a yeast gallon of the above men- led composition, containing eight beer quarts, 1 in common water eight pounds of potatoes for eating ; bruise them perfectly smooth, 1 mix with them whilst warm, two ounces of ley, or any other sweet substance, and one irt (being the eighth part of a gallon of yeast) common yeast. And, for making bread, mis ee beer pints of the above composition with ushel of doiir, using warm water in making : bread ; the water to be warmer in winter. I the composition to be used in a few hours ;r it is made ; and as soon as the sponge (the sture of the composition with the tlour) be- s to fall the first time, the bread should be de, and put into the oven. FACTS AND OB:^KRV AXIOMS KEL.^TING TO Agriculture and Domestic Economy. MUSQtETOES. To prevent the bite of Musquetoe.'?, rub the of pennyroyal, a little weakened on the ids and face. Under this head, we propose, from time to time, to publish such articles, relating to agriculture and rural economy, as we may be of opinion will prove useful. ?ome of our statements wilt not, probably, be new to many of our readers, and others, perhaps, will not be found correct. But those to whom our observations may not convey new iileas, will, we hope, endure theni for the sake of the benefits which may accrue to such persons as are destitute of the information they contain, which will be in part derived from writers of acknowledged merit and standard authority. .Should our assertions or theories be found erroneous, we should be happy to stand corrected by our friends and corres- pondents. Our statements may, at least, suggest hints and processes which may lead to valviable improve- ments. And, as happily expressed in the last No. of the Massachusetts Agricultural Repository, " the cau- tious farmer, if he is struck with their novelty, may try them for himself. If they are found to fail, he will not repeal the experiment, but he will be very careful to inquire, whether he has faithfully followed the in- structions of the first essayist, ^^^le(her the soil was the same as that in which the experiment was made, and whether he has taken the same pains to prcdiice the proposed result. If he is satisfied that he has -o done, and that the novelty recommended is not entitled to his confidence, he will abandon it." POTATOES May be spoiled by bad management in har- vesting. They should be dug in cool over cast weather, and picked immediately after the hoc free from sun and air, and kept moist with much dirt about them. If dug in fine weather, and thev remain exposed to the sun, they will sweat in the summer, and be soft, waxy and itronu^. By lying to dry in the sun, they turn green, be- come in a degree poisonous, operate as ph^'sic of a purgative nature, and, it is said, sometimes prove fatal. In gatherino: a crop of potatoes it has been recommended to run furrows on each side of the rows, and then a pretty deep one in the middle, which turns up most of the roots to the surface. A fork, with four prongs, with the addition of what may be called a tulcrum, fastened by a pivot to the back part of the handle may be used for raising the potatoes, not turned by the plough. In the report on the agriculture of the coun- ty of Hereford, drawn up for the British Board of Agriculture, is a description of an excellent implement, invented by Mr. Yeldall, for taking up potatoes, having four prongs, or barbs of iron, with a fang, in the form of a double mould board, drawn by three horses or four oxen. It enters the ground, under the bed of potatoes, and throws them to the surface. In feeding stock on potatoes it is best to steam, boil, or bake them. Sir John Sinclair, a fa- mous English Agriculturist, (v/ho, we believe, has corresponded with Gen. Washington on sub- jects of rural economy,) in his celebrated Code of Agriculture, asserts, that "there issomethinsr injurious in the juice of the potatoe in a raw state, which cooking eradicates, or greatly dis- pels." We have, however, heard it asserted by far- mers that raw potatoes, given, in moderate quantities to working oxen in the spring of the year answer a valuable purpose. They are said to prove cooling, and opening, and serve at once for food and physic. Where cattle are fed in part on Indian corn or meal, which is in some dogrec astringent and heating, raw potatoes given occasionally, we have been told, promote the health, and add to the appetite of the .tni- mals. The Farmer's Assistant .says, " We never should advise to feed milch-cows with potatoes, either boiled or raw ; as we have frequently known cows to be greatly lessened in their quantity of milk, by being fed on tliis root." POULTRY. Mr. Wakefield, a spirited farmer near Liver- pool, say the compilersof " The Complete Gra- zier," keeps a large stock of poultry in the same enclosure with singular success. He has nearly an acre enclosed with a close slab fence, about seven feet high. The top of the fence is everywhere sharp pointed like pickets, though, perhaps, this may not be necessary. Within this enclosure are put up slight small sheds, well secured from rain, however, for the differ- ent kinds of poultry, and it is supplied with a small stream of water. The poultry are regu- larly fed three times a day with boiled potatoes, which is their only food, except what grass may grow within the enclosure. The dung of the poultry, which is exceed- ingly rich, is carefully saved for use ; and the lurf of the enclosure is occasionally pared ofi for mixing with composts. We have heard it asserted that a little molas- ses, or any other saccharine substance is very useful to mix with the food of poultry, which it is intended to fatten. Perhaps it might be well to boil a proportion of beets, ripe and sweet pumpkins, or squashes with potatoes, for the food of poultry. When corn is given to fowls it hould be crushed or soaked in water. Hens it is said should have access, in winter, to slack- ed lime, or oyster shells, otherwise they will afford no eggs, as something of the kind is ne- cessary to form the shells. Wheat, however, if given to fowls lor food, will afford the substance (phosphate of lime) which is necessary to com- pose their shells. BEES. Dr. J. Anderson in one of his papers on hus- bandry observes, in substance, that bees are frequently induced by mild weather in the win- ter, and early in the spring to leave their hives and by sudden changes to cold or wet become chilled, unable to return, and perish. And when they do not venture abroad, warm weather, out of season, often rouses them from their torpid state and obliges them to consume their stores, and they are then starved with hunger. To prevent such accidents. Dr. Anderson is of opinion, that " no method would be so effec- tual as that of placing the hives in an ice house at the approach of winter. Here they may be kept till the spring is so far advanced, that no danger is to be apprehended from bad weather. During the whole winter they will remain in a state of torpor and require no t'ood. As soon as the mild weather invites them to appear, tney will commence their labors with vigor. The intense degree of cold which bees sustain with- out the least injury in Poland and Russia, where even quicksilver is sometimes frozen, removes every doubt or anxiety, coaceruing the safety of bees in an ice hoase." IsEW ENGLAND FARMER. We do not know that any thing has cverbeen attempted to ascertain the correctness ol' Dr. Anderson's theory, but wish that some person would try the experiment, and give the result to the public. STUBBLE,— BURNING or. !\In. W. Curtis, of Lynn, Norfolk, found very beneficial effects from burning the stubble of (•it'*, which was left oitchtcen inches high for this purpose, on a field broken up from old pas- ture the same year ; he aftrrwards sowed wheat and oats in succession on the same ground, the Jtubble of both of which was burned in the same manner. The iishes were in every case plough- ed in to a small depth, and the verges of the field mowed previous to the burning, to prevent accidents. At'ter the third crop of corn, all of which were abundant and remarkably free from weeds, the tield was laid down with clover and grass seeds, and the ensuing crops of both hay and grass proved infinitely finer than those be- fore the ground was broken up. Another piece of land was cropped for three successive years in the same manner as the first, to which it was similar in every respect of soil, aspect, and previous management, but in which the stubble was ploughed in, instead of being- burned ; the produce of each crop on it was much inferior to that of the fii"st experiment, :ind the weeds increased so greatly, that on lay- ing it down to grass, they overpowered the grass seeds so much that it was necessary to re- .sow it ; and ever after, while Mr. Curtis held It, the grass and hay produced were coarse and full of weeds, and consequently inferior both in value and quantity to those of the other field, on v/hich the stubble had been burned. In burning stubble, the danger which is to be apprehended from the spreading of the flames, may perhaps be obviated by tracing a furrow round the held, and setting fire to the stubble on the inner edge of the furrow. We were furnished with the following receipt by a lady, a pattern of industry and all domes- tic virtues, at whose table we have drank this wine in great perfection. It is desirable that wine, and beer, and cider should take the place, as far as possible, of ardent spirit*, the extrava- gant use of which has already become the scourge of this young country. It is, therefore, to be wished, that every thing which can in- crease the means or throw light on the man- ner of making these simple and wholesome bev- erages, should be made known for public ben- efit ; and we shall feel much obliged for all in- formation on such matters. The receipt is cop- ied from "Gary's American Museum," for July. American, Farmer. RECEIPT FOR ."lAKir.'O CURR.\NT WINE. Gather your currants when full ripe ; break them well in a tub or vat, (some have a mill con- structed for the purpose, consisting of a hopper, fixed upon two lignumvit» rollers) press and measure your j'lice, add two thirds water, and to each gallon of that mixture, (i. e. juice and water) put three pounds of muscovado sugar, (the claaner and drier the better ; very coarse sugar tii-st clarified, will do equally as well,) stir it well till the sugar is quite disssolved, and then turn it up. If you can possibly prevent it, let not your juice stand over night, as it should liot ferment before mixture. Observe that j'our casks be sweet and clean, such as never had either beer or cider in them, and if new let them be first well seasoned. Do not fdl your casks too full, otherwise they will work out at the bung, which is by no means good for the wine ; rather make a proportionable quantity over and above, that after drawing off the wine you may have a suf- ficiency to till up the casks. Lay the bung lightly on the hole to prevent tlie flies &c. from creeping in. In three weeks or a month after making, the bung-hole may be stopped up, leav- ing only the vent-hole open till it has fully done working, which gcnerall}' is about the lalterend of October. It may then be racked off into oth- er clean casks if you please ; but experience seems to favor the letting the wine stand on the lees till spring, as it thereby attains a stronger body, and is by that means in a great measure divested of that sweet luscious taste, peculiar to new made wine ; nay, if it is not wanted for present consumption, it may without any dam- age stand two years on the lees. When you draw off the wine, bore a hole, an inch at least above the tap-hole, a littlt to the side of it, that it may run clear off the lees. — The lees may either be distilled, which ivill yield a fine spirit, or filtered through aa Hipo- crates' sleeve and returned again into the cask. Some put in the spirit, but I think it not advis- able. Do not suffer yourself to be prevailed on to add more than one third juice as above pre- scribed, in hopes that the wine may be richer, for that would render it infallibly hard and unpleas- ant, nor yet a greater proportion of sugar, as it would certainly deprive it of its pure vinous taste. By this managemnt you may have wine, let- ting it have a proper age, equal to Madeira, at least superior to most wines, commonly import- ed, and lor much less money. In regard to the quantity of wine intended to be made, take this example, remembering that twelve pounds of sugar are equal to a gallon of liquid. For instance, suppose you intend to make 30 gallons, then there must be, 24 gallons of mixture, 3 multiplied by, equal to C gallons of liquid. 30 gallons. and so proportionably for any quantity you please to make. The common cider presses, if thoroughly clean will do well in making large quantities : the small hand-screw press is most convenient for such as make less. N. B. An extraordinary good spirit for me- dicinal and other uses, may be distilled from currant juice by adding a quart of molasses to a gallon of juice, to give a proper fermentation. Ions of juice. lU of water, 24 gallons of mixture, G gals, from sugar. Jlrnerican Isinglass. — A manufactory of tbi« useful article has been established at Cape Ann, by Mr. Wm. llall, late of this city. The mate- rial for manufacture is obtained from tish taken from our coasts. The specimens of isinglass manufactured at Cape Ann have been used by the brewers and confectioners in our city, who considered it fully equal if not superior to the imported. — Boiton Pot. NEW ENGLAND FARMER. BOSTOA'.— SATURDAY, AUGUST 3, 1822. TO THE PUBLIC. • It was well observed by an eminent philosophy tliat " Ifie excellehcy of manufactures, and the facili: of labor would be much promoted if the various tx|) dients and contrivances, which lie concealed in prr. :. hands, were, by reciprocal communications, madt orally known. There are few operations that ar performed by one or other with some peculiar aJ i t.igff, which, though singly of little importance, v.\ ul by conjunction and concurrence, open new inlets knowledge, and give new powers to diligence." The remarks will apply with as miicli force to Agricultu as to manufactures. One great and primary ob|>rt the '■'■ A'crv England Farmer.i" is to serie as a viiiir for " reciprocal communications" of such improvemti in husbandry, or domestic economy, as may add stim Ins to industry, by insuring to diligence that row? which alone waits on tcell directed effort. The I'r jp etor woulil, therefore, be happy to receive useful hi:! statements and essays, oral, written or printed, rclati to tl>e objects of his paper, as mentioned above, a more particularly unfolded in the first article ol ; preceding pages, from persons whose experience, r' : ing or observation qualify them to furnish useful formation to the community. It is hoped that no practical farmer will be detcri from forwarding to us for publication any informal of the above description from an appr< hension lest stylo should prove deficient in any of the requisites what is called fine writing. All we wish for is that should make his meaning understood, which may done as well, or better, by plain words and comn phrases, than by a pompous diction, consisting of wo of '• learned length and thundering sound." If : literal correction should be_deemcd necessary to fit ; matter for the press, which we may receive from orrespondents, it will be cheerfully rendered by Editor. The Proprietor will spare neither pains nor expo tc make his paper worthy of public patronage. picposcs, from time to time, to give engravings of - pioved breeds of animals, agricultural implemei , patented machines for facilitating processes in the i • ful arts, particularly those connected with Agricult ; and Domestic Kconomy. At the termination of each year from the commer • ment of the paper, will be given a copious and con t index of the volume preceding. The Proprietor authorizes and requests all Post V •> (era to receive subscriptions for the iVew England 1 • mer^ according to the terms stated in the first pag* ■( this day's paper, and retain ten per cent, on the anio ! which they may collect. We have taken the liberty to forward the first n ber of the Xew England Farmer to some gentlt i o whose names happened to occur to us, although 1 v are not on our subscription list. Should they appi c of this specimen of our work, and the plan as develo i in this and the initial articles, we hope they will af i us their patronage, and assist in extending the circ i- tion of the paper by such means as they may deem it adapted to that effect. O:;^"" ^vas stated in our Prospecti:s that the I» England Fanner would be printed on a " large r^ al sheet." It has since been thought best to issue it sheet of smaller size, but of superior qunb'ly. le price of the paper now vsed is the same as tha: » which we originally proposed printing it. We are m fidcnt our patroijs will be satisfied with the alterati NEW ENGLAND FARMER. FOREIGK SUMMARY. Intelligence from London as late as the 13th of June A3 been received by the ship Nestor^- an-ived in New ork from Livcrp ool. A London article of that date ifirm? that advioes had been received from Conslanti- ople to the lUh May, conUrniins the pacific nev.-s of le evacuation of Moldavia and Wallachia by the iil 'urkish troops. Russian vessels were clearing at pj idessa for Constantinople ; and sevc-ral vessels have een insured at Lloyd's from capture or seizure by the urks, at one per cent. It appears that the unfortunate Greeks are still suf- •iring all tiiat tlie most savage ferocity can inflict un- Jijer the domination of the Musselmen. Two Trench ntlemen, visiting the island of Scio, represented the vvn as pillaged and destroyed, and the streets filled ith the festering remains of the bulchered Inhabitants. he women and children were articles of commerce, )th at Constantinople and Smyrna. The Turkish 2et was to sail from Scio about the 3d of May, which arcs little hopes of their having been defeated by the reeks. The Belgrade accounts are very unfavorable to tl'.e reeks. The Pacha of Salonichi had received rein- l^rcemcnts, and defeated the Greeks. After this he II upon thirty Greek villages, and carried away the omen and children as slaves. The King of France, in reply to the Address of the hamber of Peers says, " since the opening of the ses- >n I have received accounts which assure that peace 11 not be disturbed in the East it is stated that the accounts received from the South id West of Ireland continue more and more deplora- e. The assistance given to the poor has been ex- •mely liberal ; but their wants exceed the donations. Dublin paper states that " a million of men, women d children are starving — are actually dying of hun- r, and in one of the finest seasons ever remembered ; malignant fever, with every appearance of the v/orst .Tiptoms of pestilence has set in." The recognition of the Independence of tlie South nerican nations, by the United States, has been re- ived in Spain ; but no measures have been taken on e subject. The bill for throwing open the West India Islands to trade of all nations had passed the House of Com- itls, btt'n wad a first time in the House of LOrds,'and is said win become a law. ' As an illustration of the singular character of the it winter, it may be mentioned, that while the ther- )ineter was some d-:grees above the freezing point it. issia and Sweden, they were skating a?i(( drivinj .iueaux at Madrid through the whole of January, d several persons were frozen to death in the streets Lisbon . The last accounts frem Spain, which are to the 31st Jime, indicate a crazed and unsettled state of socic- Troops of partizans are in arms against the gov- iment. These insurgents who style themselves roy- ts, are <^mmonly headed by priests or monks, arid :a banners were inscribed', " The K^ng and the OSS."' They have been often defeated, but rise from ery oveellirow with apparently renovated strer.gth fresh exertions. The Cortes were in session, but ■re said to be perplexed, bewildered and wavering tlieir councils. They had fixed the standing army 182-', at 62,043 men. The Cortes have issued a Manifesto on South Amer- m affairs, in which they invoke the Powers of Europe t to recognize the Independence of the New States South America. A duel was fought in Paris, in the beginning of June, • two members of the Chamber of Deputies, Benja- i:i Constant and Forbin des Isarts. They were at- nded by liro seconds each. The former being lame, id unable to stand, they were both provided with airs, and in that way exchanged two shots withov.t feet ; when the seconds interfered. at At a splendid levee held by the King of England, oj e 12th of June, Mr. Washington Irving was present I by the American Ambassador. "1 DOMESTIC SUMMARY. c Slaves. — The Emperor of Russia has derided th< ■ IPstlon submitted to him by the U. States and G. Bri J. m, in relation to slaves carried away during the lati ar by the British— that the U. States arc entitled to : ' St indeaiiiificalion for all such slaves carried away. Riot at the Slnle Prison. On the first inst. there was a formidable insurrec- tion at the Slate Prison in Charlestown. It com- menced by an attack made on one Chadwick, who had rendered himself obnoxious to the prisoners by giving evidence against Green, not long since convicted and executed. It is said that for nearly two hours the riot- ers had the ascendancy, and were not quelled till after they Iiad set fire to the work shops in the yard, and had been repeatedly fired upon by the guard. A large number of the citizens of Boston and Charlestown were collected, including Eire Companies, and a party of Marines from the Nr.vy Yard. The principal of the riot, and several others were wounded, the former, it is supposed mortally. 'I'he culprits were at length drive '.i to their wards and secured. J\Vg;-o Plot. — A plot has been formed by the negroes of Charleston, S. C. to massacre the white people. They formed themselves info a society, and held meetings at a farm, which they could approach by water to avoid be- ing stopped by any patroles. They intended to have provided themselves with passes so as to deceive the guard, and place themselves at certain parts of the ci- ty ; then a party was to secure the guard at the guard house, and an indiscriniinatc massacre v\as to com- mence on all whites, who appeared in the streets, and particularly to prevent any company from forming. — Also to prevent the bells from tinging to give any a- larni. A negro who was solicited to join the gang de- clined, and gave information to his owners by which means the conspirators were arrested, and some of (hem condemned to be executed. SoLO.MoN SouTnwicK, Esq. the Editor of the Plough Boy, has been nominated a candidate for Governor of the State of New York, in opposition to Judge Yati's. This event took place, says the Albany Argus, at " a very numerous meeting of Republicans," in which the " Capitol was crowded to excess, and the citi.-^en? ani- mated by Uie fire of seventy-six and ninety-eight." It is reported that another challenge has passed be- tween Col. Cumining and Mr. M'Duffic, and that the meeting is fixed for the 10th of August. A writer in the Boston Centinel of the 31st ult. in remarking on certain recent failures, which have ta- ken place in this city, snys that '■'■ many of the failures ■werjp trifling, many others not unexpected, and that the whole will not effect the stamina of the solvent Em- porium of New England commerce." We have published the official decisions of the Ame- rican and British Commissioners made under the 6th article of the treaty of Ghent ; by which it will be seen, that all the islands in the Niagara river, (except Navy Islpjid) have fallen to the United States. Drum- mond's Island, in Lake Huron, containiiig a British post, has also fallen to us. This will serve as an ex- change for the military works at Rouse's Point, on Lake Champlain. — Buffalo Patriot July IG. Caution. — Counterfeit bills of five dollars, of the Bank of the United States, are hi circulation, and have appeared in this vicinity. The engraving is coarse, and the paper much thicker than the true bills. Salem paper. AVe are informed by a respectable physician that a dog, evidently alfecfed with Hydrophobia, was killed at Lechmere Point on Monday last. — Palladium. Worcester Canal. — It is announced in the Providence American, that Jlr. Benjamin A\'right is engaged to survey, early the ensuing autumn, the route of the pro- posed Canal from Worcester to Providence, and to make an estimate of the expense of the undertaking. Edmund Law, Esq. is a candidate for Congress in Florida. He was, we believe, brother to the late Lord EUenborough, and author of many of the essays on the currency, which appeared in the National Intelligencer a short time since — a gentleman of genius, learning, and extensive and profound erudition. American Ilisfory. — The Evening Post intimates, that the Hon. Timothy Pickering of Massachusetts, contemplates wTiting Memoirs of his own Times, or some similar work. The following is the paragraph conveying the intimation to which we allude : — " We express a hope, and we have good grounds for the expression, that this venerable statesman will de- vote the evening of his days to placing on record, the I history of-those events and transactions so familiar to his remembrance, so honorable to himself, so glorious to his country. To what better purpose ran he devote his ti.-ne ? How can he terve posterity more essential- ly, than by placing before their eyes, in an imparfial light, the picture of the times that have been ? He has served his country in the field and in the cabinet ; let him close his labors by acting as the historian of his own times." Mr. Pickering has now reached the age of seventy ; and as he is one of the living chronicles of rcToluticc- ary events, such a work as he contemplates would no doubt contain many vahiable facts which v.-ould serve to illustrate our history. — .K. X. Statesman. Charles Thompson. — .\ gsntUman of this city lately visited the venerable Charles Thompton, secretary cf the continental congress in the revolutionary war at his scat, twelve miles from Philadelphia, on the old' Lancaster read. Mr. 1 hompson has reached the ad- vanced age of ninety-three, enjoys tolerable bodily health, and walks with apparent ease and pleasure to himself; his sight is so good as to enable him to read without spectacles, but he hears with difficulty — his mind is evidently in decay ; it is the ruins, however, of superior intellect ; far from being puerile, it still bears the impress of greatness, and a familiarity with the best ancient and modern authors. He dwells with peculiar interest on the scenes of the revolutionary war, and relates with great precision, many anecdotes of its prominent characters. On being asked what caused such implicit faith to be put in the documents signed by him, he answered " it was well known that he had resolved, in despite of consequences, never to put his official signature to any account, for the accuracy cf which he could not vouch as a man of honor ;" and so well v.-as this understood, that when Mr. T. was adopt- ed by the Six Nations of Indians, they emphatically named him " the man of truth." — Albany paper. DEATHS. In this city, Mr. Thomas Pclham, 38.— Mr. John Burt, 20.— Miss Ann Hughes, G7.— Mr. John Hol- brnok, 53. — Augustus O. Barton, 39.. In Roxbury, on Thursday last, James Perkins, Esq. of this city, aged Cl- in Fiirrlajut,. Stephen George Kemble, Esq. the cele- brated comedikn, aged 64. In private life he was a social, lively companion ; and on the stage he was re- markable for playing Sir John Falstafi', without stuffing his jacket. JYeiv Printing Office, THOMAS W. SHEPARD RESPECTFULLY informs his friends and the public that he executes all kinds of Book and Job Printinir, in the most fashionable manner, and on reasonable terms, at bie Office of the Ni;w Esgi.and Farsier, Rogers'' Building Congress Street. 05" Entrance Nos. 4 and 17. Husbandman and Housewife. FOR sale at the Bookstore of Charles Ewer, No. 51, Munros & Francis, No. 4, Comhill, and at this Office:— The HUSBANDMAN AND HOUSEWIFE; being a collection of valuable Recipes and Directions, relating to Agriculture and Domestic Economy. By Thomas G Fessesdf,!?, Esq. Price 50 cents. The follomng notice of this work is extracted from the Massachi.seffs Agricultural Journal for June 1822. " We have read it with attention, and think it well adapted to the use of farmers, who would not go to the expense of purchasing larger works. It is a collection of receipts, many of which arc from high authority, and all of them, as far as they are accurate, calculated for daily and constant use. That errors should creep into such a work must be expected. The recipes areeften taken from such transient works, or sources, that it would be impossible for the compiler to vouch for their efficacy or exactitude — but still its use must be very great to the clas; of people for whom it was principally intended." August '9 NEW ENGLAND FARxMER. From the jyiassucliusetia Spy of July 'J4. Mr. F-ditor — The foilowin": communicition from an iiitcllii'cnt prncti'-^a AKhcnltiiralist, c-mbrcici's a subjict of si-asonablc and iiiiiiortaut inti-rost to the fanutr*. — The question of tlic tffict produced upon the crop of Indian Corn by rirno\ ill? tlie Siickirs, and Ihr proper manner and time for doing it, are yet to be decided t\v more frequent and accurate experiments tlian ajipear to have been made, the results having been very differ- ent, in the instances heretofore communicated. As the season has nov.' nearly arrived, in which the experi- ment may be repeated, it is hopi d that every Farmer will give so much of his time and atti iition to the sub- ject, as to take the suckers from at least a single row of his corn, and carefully note the time and manner of doing it, with tlie comparative proihict of a similar quantity on which the suckers sliall be permitted to remain — and if he will still further ascertain the differ- ence between cutting the stalks and ka\ ing tlieni to be harvested with thi' Corn, and communicate the re- sult of all his observations to this Society, be would add much to the stock of useful information, and great- ly oblige his fellow-laborers in the business of Hus- bandry. L. LINCOLN, Cor. Htcrilary o/Ihe H'orcester ^^ricullural Sucitly. To the Worcester Agricultural Society. In the spring of cisrhteen htimlrcd tind ttvenfy- one, I proposed to try the expcfiinetU of raising' Corn, by planting it in rows. 1 ploughed the ground, as usual, twice ; then carted twenty- seven loads of bam manure on an acre, wliich took two men with a yoke of oxen one day. — As soon as the manure was ^vanned by the in- Ihience of the stm, I then spread the same, and ploughed the ground for the third time. On the eighteenth of May, I furrowed it out, three feet six incites from centre to centre of the fur- row— then carried on twenty-five loads ot loom, which was carted into my hog-yard the preced- ing Autumn, and spread the same in the furrows, which took tliree men and a yoke of nxpn cue- day — I then planted one halt the ground in two rows, six niches apart, the remainder about nine. Immediately after weeding it, I spread two bushels of plaster on the rows — at a suita- ble growth gave it a second hoeing ; the second week in July, hoed it the third time ; at that period the growth was very rapid, and there appeared to be a greater quantity of suckers from the bottom of the stalks than I ever saw- before. The observation struck me, that it would be worthy the attention of our Agricultu- ralists to try the cxperimcntof cutting the suck- er from the stalk, which I did from most of it. By observing, I found that such a proportion of juice from the stalk wept out where the sucker was taken off, that the growth was not po large, and the car set higher ui)on the stalk : on the part where the suckers were not taken off, the corn was thicker set and more promiiKfit — the ears set ten or twelve inches nigher the ground, and were a good proportion larger. That part correct agricultural knowledge. Dr. Deane work was certainly as good a compendium f( its size, as cnidd be found in Europe at th time it was ptiblished. It had the special me it, for Its, of adapting European modes of cti ture to our soil and climate. Even in its in proved state, it is not pretended that the wot supersedes the necessity, with intelligent cull vators, of an extensive agricultural library, b' it is calculated, and well calculated, to aid tl experience, and enlighten and direct the pra tice of all descriptions of farmers. It has be< necessary so far to enlarge it, in consequence the great modern improvements in agricultur that it may prove too expensive for small fan ers, but tve think all farmers in easy circtit stances will find it a very cheap book. Mai thii»gs will not be new to them, but even the they will find enforced by new reasoiis and s guments. Though written principally with view to the New England States, there is i part of the United States in which it will n h'-' found of great value, and perhaps it may n, be and ought not to be its smallest recomme dation to the farmers of the United States, th excepting the Rev. Jared Elliot's small tract, was the earliest and by tar the most rcspectah at^ricultural work ever published in the Unit Slates. The Farmer's .\ssistant by Mr. Nic olson, of the State of New York, a very n perlable work, is apparently modelled upon and I presume the author will admit^ what i tleed his pages prove, the great assistance ! derived from this work. But in New England, it was thought best republish Dr. Deane's work, with additions a corrections, not with the wish, in any degrt I to interfere with the other work alluded to. Air from if, Messrs. Wells & Lilly, to our knov edge, contemplated and proposed to the writ of this notire, the republication of Dr. Deani work, before the Farmer's Assistant went the press. We repeat, that as Editors of this joum and as individuals, we have no other inter< in, or wish to promote the circulation of t new edition of Dr. Deane's New England F; mer's Dictionary', than the advancement sound principles in agriculture. We wish wi, to all agricultural publications of merit, and » we have alluded to the Farmer's Assistant, \ ought to add, that we think that work is o which deserves this character. We trust t demand often millions of people will be gr(( enough for both, and in a few jears, for ma others. NEW ENGLAND FAllMEH. Publishod every Saturttey, by THOMAS W. SHKPARU, Rogers' Building, Congress Street, Hobton ; lit $0,50 p( r ami. in :\dvance, or $;!,00 :it the close of the y, ar. Vol. I. BOSTON, SATURDAY, AUGUST 10, 1822. No. 2. From the Mass. Agricultural Repository lor June. AN ESSAY On tke Advantage of Manuring -jL-itk Green Crops. CY S. W. POMCaOY, KS(1. k First Vice President of the Society for promoting; Agri- culture in Wasjachusetts. That eminent chemist, Sir Humphrey Davj', apin'ohensive of the most distressing- conse- quences. "Providentially, some 15 or 20 years since, the White Lupin was introduced from Italy, and thouGjh it came by accident, to a people strong-- ly bigotted to old practices of husbandry, the cultivation soon became general. " The wheat and corn are harvested in Au- g;ust, the land is soon after ploughed and Lupins who has shed so much light on the practice as sown on the surface., or but slightly covered, at well as on the philosophy of Agriculture, ob- serves, that " land when not employed in pre- paring food for animals, should be applied to the purposes of the preparation of manure for plants ; and that this is effected by means of green crops, in consequence of the absorption of carbonaceous matter in the carbonic acid of the atmosphere. That, in a {naked) summer ikllow a period is always lost in which vegeta- bles may be raised, either as food for animals or as nourishaient for the nest crop." The rewards offered by the board of Trus- tees of the Massachusetts Agricultural Society for more than twenty years succe.ssively, for the best experiments on ploughing in green crops for manure, appear to be still unclaimed ; there is of course good reason to believe that the practice is very limited in the Common- wealth. To shew the advantages that result from such a system, elsewhere, the following is transcribed from a letter that ! addressed to John S. Skinner, Esq. of Baltimore, the able and zealous Editor of the American Farmer, and J which appeared in that paper last November. " Among the various plants applied as green g; dressings for the restoration of worn out soils, Ik the White Lupin stands pre-eminent in those .(, climates that will permit their growth between ui the periods of harvest and seed time. That ? jjli trial may be made with them, 1 have forsvarde fij half a bushel of the seed, which I trust 3'ou wil: ^, cheerfully distribute for the benefit of our Southern brethren. They were sent to m • from Fayal ; and the follcr.ving account, which I have collected, of the effects of their culture, will, at least, serve to convince us, that " the , Earth, ever subservient to the xvanis of man.,''" .vlicn exhausted by his insatiable demands, re- quires from him but a little mechanical aid, tf; •-nable her still to ' spread his walks with flow- r^ and his table with plenty.' The island of lyal, though in the same parallel of latitude with iNIaryland, is subject to a temperature sel- dom above 80, or below 50 degrees of Fahren- heit. The soil is thin, and incumbent on scoria and other nmkcomposed volcanic substances ; but naturally exceedingly fertile. For a long period of time, every part accessible to the [dough, has been in tillage ; and, with the ex- eption of selected patches .shifted for flax, un- der alternate crops of wheat and Indian corn, J , (the latter being the chief food of the laboring jl ilclasses.) Such a system of severe cropping; iijjthe resources for manure very limited, and j,( tij without the advantage of improved implement* .jri^t>r modes of culture, caused a visible deterio- ■ E*) ration of the soil; the crops lessened from year I to year ; partial importations were resorted to ; ' and the zacK born of the islani became seriously the rate of two bushels per acre. In February they flower, tmd are then turned in with the wheat, corn or flax in their several rotations. By this management a progressive improvement of the soil has become apparent : there are no longer apprehensions of famine ; a very redun- dant population subsists ; and besides supplying 10,00es the rostcUum or sprout untouched, or at least uninjured; for almost every pea vegetates and thrives vigorously, notwithstanding the cor- culiiin (the rudiment of the young plant) and plumula seem to be consumed." " One or two years observation," continues Mr. Pickering, " in different climates, may be recpiisite to ascertain the time when the flight of these insects is over and they perish. As peas of various sorts blossom and form their pods at very different times, some that come late may perhaps admit of such early sowing as to secure a vigorous and ample growth of the vines before the intense heat of summer ar- rives ; in which case a satisfactory crop may more surely be expected." Mr. Pickering concludes this paper with the follow- ing remarks on the opinions which some people enter- tain of the influence of the moon on agriculture and other sublunary concerns. " Having noticed the folly of regarding the Moon in relation to the time of sowing pease, 1 add, that the idea of its influence in any other operations in husbandry, ought to be alike dis- carded. It is a mischievous supposition kept a- live by tradition, and countenanced and support- ed by the idle remarks and representations in almanacks. The figure of a man marked w ith the signs, and the prognostications of the weath- er, ought to be expunged ; and every well dis- posed almanack-maker would banish them if he knew the injuries they occasion, by misleading the farmer in any branch of rural economv. I once heard some farmer.s — speaking of spread- ing manure on grass-land in the spring — say ve- ry gravely, that it sliould not be done Zi'hen the horns of the moon -jnere turned upwards, for then the inaaure, instead of sinking into the ground, ■xould 7-isc '^ith the grass, and do no good. On the contrary, they mentioned one farmer whott'o«/rf not set up his worm fence w/ioi t!ie horns of the moon pointed dozz-n-j^'ards — for then the stones placed under the angles of the fence would sink, and the lower rails touch the ground and rot. And an industrious farmer in another state told me that he had slaughtered a tine heilier calf which he wished to have raised, becmtsc it ixas dropped in the dark of the inoon. If 1 had not witnessed these facts, I should have hardly thought it possible that such ridiculous notions could have been entertained by any persons who claimed a share of common sense. Even the changes of the weather so generally supposed to be influenced by the phases of the moon, ha^ e been found, by long course of observations, to happen at all periods of the moon's appearance indiscriminately. This fact which your father mentioned to me twenty years ago, was this day repeated to me by the gentleman who had no- ted those observations. Were it otherwise, he remarked, — did the moon's influence deter- mine the weather — then should not this be fair or foul, at the same times, in all countries on the globe ?" {To be contimied.) Prayer of a Young Gentleman for a Wife. From a vain coquette — from a pert assuming Miss, good Lord deliver mo. From one whose time and thoughts are employed in dress, orna- ments and visit* ; from one who is enamoured of her own pretty face and afcom|diy Colonel Ran- dolph of Virginia, son-in-law to Mr. .'elTerson. Mr. Jefferson, who has frequently witness- ed the great and beneficial effects, result- in"' from this practice, not only on the farm of Col. Randolph, but also on his onn, thus details the mode of horizontal ploughing in a letter to a distinguished farmer in ftlassachusetts, and published in the Agricultural Repository : " Horizontal Ploughing has been practised here O'lririnia) by Col. Ilandol])!], my son-in- law, who tirst introduced it, about a dozen or fifteen years ago. Its advantages were so soon observed that it has already become very general, and has entirely changed and renovated the face of om- country. Every rain before that, while it did a temporary good, did greater permanent evil, by carrying otf our soil, and lields were no sooner cleared than wasted; at present, we may sav that we loose none of our soil — the rain not absorbed in the moment of its fall being retained in the hollows of the beds until it can be absorbed. Our practice is, when we first enter on this pro- cess, with a rafter level of ten feet span, to lay off guide line*, conducted horizontally around every hill side, and about thirty yards apart ; the steps of the level on the ground are mark- ed by the strokes of a hoe, and immediately fol- lowed by a plough to preserve the trace ; a man, or a boy of 12 or 16 years old wiili llie level, and two smaller boys to mark the ste|)s, the one with sticks, the other with the hoe. will do an acre of this an hour, and when once done, it is forever done. We generally level atieldthe year it is put into Indian corn, until all have been once levelled : the intermediate furrows are run by the eye of the ploughman, governed by these guide lines, and is so done ;us to lay the earth in horizontal beds of 6 feet wide with deep hollows or water furrows between them, to hold superfluous rain — the inequalities of de- clivity in the hill will vary in places the dis- tance of the guide lines, and occasion gores, which are thrown into short beds. '' I have transferred this method of ploughing to a possession I have near Lynchburg 90 miles to the S. W. from this place, where it is spread- ing rapidly, and will be the salvation of that, as it confessedly has been of this part of the coun- try. '' Horizontal and deep ploughing, with the use of plaster and clover, which are but beginning to be used here, we believe will restore this part of our country to its original fertility, which was exceeded by no upland in the State." A.? many persons may not have a correct idea of the rafter level, the use of which is recom- mended in this Essay, the Editor has procured the annexed engraved representatioo of it. A B It is necessary to caution the reader, that un- less horizontal ploughing be correctly done, it had better not be done at all ; because I iiave observed that many have attempted this mode of ploughing, without understanding its principles: If the water furrows, which are intended to hold the superfluous water, have the least descent one way or another, they will have the effect of throwing the water to one point, whc^e such a quantity will be collected in heavy rains by a number of water furrows leading to the same point, as will inevitably produce a breach thro" the ridges. It is advisable, that before the lev- el is applied to a field its surface be made as even as possible ; this is best done, if its une- venness renders it necessary, by flushing up the ground in the fall or winter with a mould board plough, and early in the spring to be well har- rowed with a two horse harrow ; this last ope- ration will not only level the surface, but will have the additional valuable eftect of breaking the clods and thereby ellectually pulverizing the ground, which will ])rove of great advan- tage to the corn in every stage of i(s growth. The level, in this case, may be ap])lied in the spring and the ground listed or thrown into hor- izontal drills for the planting of the corn. Suc- cess in horizontal ploughing depends on the ex- actness of the level to suspend, and the depth of" the ploughing to absorb the water. Inclos- ing is indispensably necessary to make it bcn- oiicial. as by that the earth is brought into a proper state for absorbing more water, and tl suspension of the progress of this water by i vegetable cover, allows more time for the op' ration of absorption — In heavy rains, when tl ground is in cultivation, and however accurati' ly levelled, instances will occasionally occur f breaches across the horizontal beds — The rer edy is, to fill them immediately with brush, ha' ing the leaves on, well packed. These instances, however, are very rare ai easily thus cured. Besides the inestimable advantage from hoi zontal ploughing in protecting the soil again the wasting efTect of rains, there isa great one its preventing the rains themselves I'rom beir lost to the crop. The Indian com is the crc which most exposes the soil to be carried offt rains ; and it is at the same time the crop whic most needs them — Where the land is not on hilly, but the soil thirsty, (as is generally tl case with such lands) the preservation of tl rain as it falls between the drilled ridges, is peculiar importance ; and its gradual settlir downwards to the roots.,^ is the best possib mode of supplying them with moisture. In tl old method of ploughing shallow up and Aow hill, the rain as well as the soil was lost, whi< not only destroyed the upland, but rushed do\^ and poisoned the vallies. The result of hoi zontal ploughing in V'irginia is extremely e couraging to those who may wish to adopt th practice here. Farms there which are ve hilly, whose soils were particularly liable to I washed away, and which were excessively ga ed and gullied, have been relieved probably nineteen parts in twenty of those calamities 1 horizontal and deep ploughing in combinatii with inclosin"'. ill JN'LW LNGLANIJ FARMER. BOSTOJ^. —SATURDAY, AUGUST 10, 182i THE SCIK.\CE OF AGRICULTUHE AND BOOK FARMING Agriculture, the oldest of the arts, conjidercd as science, is still in its infancy. It is, ■we believe, n fifty yeare since chemistry was brought to the aid agriculture, and this will evrntually prove one of . principal pillars. Systematic Rotations of crops — Ii provements in breeding cattle — the use of Plaster Paris — Soiling of Cattle — the extensive Field Cuitu of Roots, for the purpose of feeding cattle — Artifici Grasses, 4:t. k.c. are of modern date, and have broug! about great revolutions in the theory and practice farming. The practical farmer, especially in the old and more populous parts of the country, must unde stand, and in some degree practice these improvement or he will not only neglect to make the most of his mean but probably make so many backward k down-hill mov ments in the journey of life, that, ten chances to on old age will find him in the vale of poverty. The cu tivator who does not keep pace with his neighbors : regards ;igricultural improvement and information, wi soon find himself tlie poorer in consequence of the pro perity that surrounds him. He will be like a stinte oak in a forest, which is deprived of light and air b its more towering neighbors. For instance, A. fine out a mode of managing by which he can raise 30 luishels of potatoes with as little expense as B. ca raise 20t» bushels of the same root. A. can not onl undersell B. and thus injure him as an individual riva but after a while Messrs. C. U. E. F. and so on to th end of the alphabet, adopt A's mode of culture ; th market price of potatoes is reduced, B. can no long( affo;i tc raise them for what they will fetch— his occv NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 15 itioii is gone, and it is to be l'< ared that he must go ith it, either to a poor-house or the state of Ohio. But we wouUl not advise farmers in middling cir- unstances to make expensive experiments, nor adopt ly novi Ity in husbandry on slight grounds, without ing well convinced by testimony, observation or ex- ■ritnce, of its beneficial etl'icts. We had better by ilf follow the beaten track of our ancestors, if it be a tie rugged :uid circuitous, than strike out at once iu- a wilderness of whim-whams, and theories not sanc- )ued by actual and repeated experiments. A farmer, iless he be very rich indeed, cannot afford to be "/«// ' nolio?u," but must leave merchandize of that sort to lO good citizens of the Metropolis. He should exer- se his own good sense on every proposed improve- eut, and neither consider that it must be useful be- lusc it is new, and has the sanction of some great unes, nor let its novelty be an insupcTLible objection its adoption. iMaiiy plants, animals, and theories re- ting to agriculture, S:c. which some years since were msidcred as wry useful and meritorious, are now de- rvedly sunk in public estimation ; and those who iopted or introduced them have suffered in conse- lence of their anticipations not having been realized. hus the theory of Tull, by which frequent ploughing as to supercede the use of manure ; the Lombardy Dplar, which was supposed to be more useful and or- unental than any of the countless species of trees hich adorn our forests — the Burnct-grass,.w1iich was presented as the grass which must eventually root it all other grasses, have had their day and their ad- )cates, and some ardent theorists have undoubtedly iffered in consequence of their carrying into practice leir predilections in favor of this or that plant, or plan cultivation. These things, however, should not leck enterprise, but inspire caution, and teach us lat every novelty may not be an improvement, altho' •ery improvttntnt was oyict a novdty. Some farmers tell us that they never knew any good suit from what they call book-farming. That gtnlk- en farm,ers, who know nothing about farming but hat they get out of their libraries spend a great deal, jt never make any profit by their agricultural pro- :cts, and schemes of domestic economy. We will ex- tnine these positions a little. It was truly said by Lord Bacon that ^'■Knowledge pow7«r." This maxim applies with as much force to grJculture as to any thing which can be the object of uman agency. If we hitto nothing we could effect othing beneficial to ourselves or others, but must bur- jw in the ground and subsist upon beech nuts, and ther spontaneous productions of the earth. This nowledge, which gives man his supremacy '^ over ae beasts of the field and the fowls of the air," and jhich bestows on individuals among mankind a pre- minence much more substantial and less invidious ban birth, wealth, titles, or popular applause, can be .cquired only by three modes, viz. observation^ conver- ation and reading. Observation and conversation are ery important inlets to ideas, and reading furnishes )erhaps, as great a quantity of useful materials for the nind to operate upon as either of them. Book-knnid- dge then is power, and other things being equal, the armer who obtains information from books, or other )rinted works, and has strength of mind, and good icnse sufficient to make a proper use of it, has the ad- 'antage over his unlettered neighbor, who despises xiok finning, equal perhaps to one pair of hands and .wo yokes of oxen. Besides, what is this book knowl- dge, which some honest cultivators think is so much .0 be dreaded ? It is nothing more than the result of >bservation, or experience, which after having parsed irough the channel of conversation, is at length re- duced to writing, sent to the press, and the moment it is printed, becomes, according to the objectors to whom we allude, bnok farming ; and therefore is to be con- sidered as something very ruinous to the practical hus- liandmun ! Thus, we will suppose that A. has found out a safe and easy cure for botts in. horses, or an anti- dote against the Hessian fly, or a metJiod by wliich he can raise double the usual qimntity of hmian corn on an acre ; A. communicates his discovery or improve- ment to B. his near neighbor, who, although he has u great aversion to book farming, makes use of and de- rives great advantages from it on the strength of A's oral testimony. 'But A. sends an account of his dis- coveries and processes to the printer, and it is publish- ed in some periodical paper, and perhaps finds its way into some volume written on agricultural subjects. The whole then becomes book farming., and not wor- thy of the attention of real, genuine, practical farmers ! But these absurdities arc fast yielding to reason and the lights of science. The time has arrived in Europe, and is fast approaching in America, in which books, and the information which they contain, will be con- sidered as necessary to make a man a complete farmer, as a complete physician, lawyer or divine. THE SEASON. ■We believe that the present season bids fair to be quite as fruitful as usual. The early drought has been succeeded by copious rains, and for some days past cool and pleasant weather has afforded the farmer an excellent opportunity to gather the products of the fields. Grass-hoppers and other devoiu'ing insects are not so common nor destructive as they have been for several summers past, and there is every prospect that the year will be crowned with the goodness of the great Bestower of all benefits. A late arrival from Liverpool at New York furnishes London dates to the 2-d June. By these we learn that several bills, annihilating the long continued naviga- tion system of England, have passed through Parlia- ment, and of course a free trade will be allowed to every part of the British dominions, including the West India Islands. This will give fresh stimulus and ener- gy to commerce and navigation, as well as to agricul- ture and every other species of laudable industry. The war between Russia and Turkey seems to be suspended for the present, and perhaps will be adjourn- ed without day. Those, therefore, who long for some- thing sanguinary and terrible, will probably have their depraved appetites baulked, and must be satisfied with such calamitous accidents by flood and field as these " piping times of peace" can aflbrd us. The situation of the Greeks, it is to be feared, is desperate. The Emperor of Rustia, it is said, refuses to interfere in their behalf, and they suffer all that those can inflict whose tender mercies are cruelty. There is some vaporing in foreign journals about fighting between France and Spain, but we are inclin- ed to think that the rumors of war were got up for pe- cuniary purposes, either to accomplish some stock job- bing mancEUVTe, or to give interest to the dull columns of newspapers destitute of news. A Naval Court of Inquiry, at the request of Captain Hull, will commence at the Navy Yard on Monday next. The members are Captains Rodgers. Chauncy, and Morris. The two former are Navy Commissioners. A highway robbery was committed Hfst Tuesday night, between 1 1 and 12 o'clock, near the draw-bridge. in Fore Street, on a young man, who was knocked down by the highwayman, and rifled ofhis pocket-book, containing one $10 bank note, and several others of a smaller denomination.— .Er'/Jg Gazette. On Wednesday, Ticket No. V24o, wliJch drew the Capital Prize of $8,000, in 3d class of Canal Lottery, was presented, and paid by Benj. Huntington, No. 21, Exchange st. Hill, who was wounded in the late insurrection at the State Prison, died on Sunday last. .\t New Brunswick lately four persons were poisoned by eating muscles — and two of the persons died. I'UODI'fJti or JlOniCLLlVRk. The amount of the product of the well cultivated lands of the Eastern States, would astonish any but those who have been accustomed to the river bottoms on the western rivers, or to alluvial lands. We can scarcely believe when we read them ; and should not believe it, were not the facts too well vouched to be <)u( stioned. We lately met with an account of the premiums given at a .Massachusetts meeting sinne time last autumn, and a few of the results are stati (i below, for the gratification of the curious in such matters. Of Potatoes. — Five hundred and fifty-one and a half bushels were raised on one acre of land, by Payson Williams, Esq. of Fitchburgh, in the county of Wot- cester, (from "24 bushels of seed.) Of Turnips. — Seven hundred and filty-onc bushels of the common English sort, weighing ,54 lbs. to the bushel, were raised by Messrs. T. i; H. Little, on one acre of ground. Of Mangel Wurtzel. — Six hundred and forty-four bushels were raised on one acre of ground, by John Prince, Esq. of Uoxbury. Of Cabbages. — Forty-three tons nineteen hundred and ten pounds weight, were raised by E. H. Derby, Esq. of Salem, on one acre, one quarter of an acre, and twenty-seven rods, being at the rate of thirty-one tons to the acre. Mr. Derby received also the premium of $30 for hav- ing raised the greatest quantity of vegetables, (grain, peas and beans excepted) for winter consumption of the stock oahi^ own farm. He raised the last season on his farm 749 bushels of mangel wurtzel, 530 bushels of carrots, 526 bushels Swedish turnips, 1288 bushels of potatoes, 126 bushels of Russian radishes, 757 bushels of common English turnips, 23 tons and 19 cwt. of cab- bages, and 15 ox cart loads of pumpkins. Of Rut a Baga. — Mr. David Little raised six hundred and eightv-eight bushels on one acre. Of iVk'ite i>'en?ii.— Thirty-two bushels and four qts. were raised on one acre by William Mears, of Marble- head. — Xational Intelligencer. THE DUELISTS— A trvf. stort. We learn an affair of honor recently took place in this vicinitj-, between the heroic wife of ensign W. and oi>c of the veteran marines of the illustrious Preble. The parties, instead of using swords and pistols, supplied their hands with weapons more innocent and less hon- orable, from the odoriferous contents of a pig stye ; — and disdaining to stand Gumming and Macduffylike, boldly faced each other. The contest was continued with great spirit, and the utmost politeness, on both sides, (ill the locks and garments of either party dripped with liquid odour ; and till the fair antagonist fell un- der the well directed fire other adversary, and was de- clared unable to maintain the combat any longer. We are happy to learn that she is " perfectly comfortable ;" and that the uuquenched animosity of the parties re- kindled by the officious intermeddling of the mischief- making public, will probably afford us a renewed ex- hibition of their martial spirit. Indeed, it is currently reported that a second challenge has been sent and ac- cepted— the official bulletin announcing the same is hourly expected, the result of which we shall wait with as much anxiety as of that which is to take place on the 10th inst. at the South ; and we doubt not the parties will retire from the field of combat equally covered with honor.''' — Salem Gatctte. DEATHS. In this city, Mrs. Hannah Farrar, wife of Mr. John A. F. 38.— Miss Mary Waterman, 19.— Mr. William Badger. 80.— .Mr. John Lloyd, 39.— Martha Esther, daughter of Ebcnezer and Dolly Hill, 2 yrs. 6 mo. GREAT ADDITIONS TO THE NEW ENGLAND MUSEUM, 76, COURT STREET. THE Proprietors of this extensive establishment have the pleasure to announce to their patrons and the public, that, besides their usual continual additions of curiosities from all parts of the World, they have just added another entire .Museum, making now one .Granel Consolidation, nf A Museums united in one. The late additions alone are supeiior in extent and variety, to any other Museum in thii city. 0:5=Admittance 25 cents only. August 10 16 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. AGRICVLTURE. Thovi first of arts, sourcf of domestic ease. Pride of the land, and patron of the seas, Thrift Agriculture ! lend thy potent aid ; Spread thy green fields where dreary forests shadf ; Where savage men pursue their savage prey, Let the v/hite flocks in verdant pastures play ; From the blooui'd orchard and the showery vale- Give the rich fragrance to the gentle gale ; Reward with ample boon the laborer's hand. And pour the gladdening bounties o'er our land- Columbia's sons, spurn not the rugged toil, Your natiana iflory ts a cultured sod. Rome's Cincinnatus, of illustrious birth, Incrtas'd his laurels while he tillM the earth ; E'en China's Monarch lays his sceptre down. Nor deems the task unworthy of the crown. THE MILK-J^LiJD AJ^'D THE BA.VKEIl. A Milk-maid with a very pretty face. Who liv'd at Acton, flad a black Co-nr, the ugliest in the place, A crooked-back'd one, A beast as dangerous too, as she was frightful. Vicious and spiteful, .And so confirmed a truant, that she bounded Over the hedges daily, and got pounded. Twas all in vain to tic her with a tether, I'"or then both cord and cow elop'd together. Arm'd with an oaken bough (wh.it folly ! U should have been of birch, or thorn, or holly,) Patty one day was driving home the beast. Which had, as usual, slipp'd its anchor. When on the road she met a certain banker. Who stopp'd to give his eyes a feast By gazing on her features, crimson'd high By a long cow-chase in July. " Are you from Acton, pretty lass ?" he cried ; " Yes," with a curtesy, she replied. " Why then yon know the laundress, Sally Wrench " She is my cousin, sir, and next door neighbor." " That's lucky, I've a message for the wench, " Which needs despatch, and you may save my labor. " Give her this kiss, my dear, and say I sent it, " But mind, you owe me one— I've only lent it." " She shall know," cried the girl, as she brandish'd her bough, " Of the loving intentions you bore me, " Rut as to the kiss, as there's haste, you'll allow " That you'd better run forward, and give it my Cow, *'^ For she, at the rate she is scampering now, " Will reach Acton some minutes before me." THE LAWYER AND THE CHIM.\EY SWEEP. A roguish old Lawyer was planning new sin. As he lay on his bed in a fit of the gnut ; Th(' mails and the day-light were just coming in, The milk-maids and rush lights were just going out : When a chimncy-swecjj's boy, who had made a mistake, Came flop down the ITue, with a clattering rush. And bawl'd, as he gave his black muzzle a shake, " My master's a coming to give you a brush." " If that be the case," said the cunning old elf, " There's no moment to lose — it is high time to flee ; " F.re he gives me a brush I'll brush off' jnyself, " If I wait for the devil, the (Kvil lake me !" So he limp'd to the door, without saying his prayers, lint Old Nick was too deep to he nick'd of his prey. For the knave broke his neck by a tumble down stairs. And thus ran to the devil by running away. The strongest of all ties is the consciousness of mutual benefit and assi.stance. It is too true that wounds, however small, which are inflicted on our self-love are never forgotten, and rarely forgiven ; and it is safer to censure the morals of our acquaintance, than to ridicule their dress, a peculiarity in their man- ners, or a fault in their persons. We are all of us too apt to repeat stories to the prejudice of others, even though we do not believe thcin. Well indeed docs St. James say that '• the tongue is an tinruly member." Whatever may be the ill Conduct of a hus- band, that wife must be deluded indeed, who thinks his culpability an excuse for hers, or seeks to revenge herself on her tormentor by follow- ing the bad example which he sots her. She is not wiser than the child, who to punish the wall against which he has struck his hand, dash- es his head against it in the vehemence of his vengeance, and is himself the only sufferer by the blow. There is nothing more dangerous to the vir- tuous and to the interests of virtue, than associa- tion with the guilty who possess amiable and at- tractive qualities. Opportunities for" confering large benefits, like bank bills of ;J1000, rarely come in our way, but little attentions, friendly participations, and kindnesses are w'o. 4, Cornhill, and at tlii Office:— The HUSUANDM.VN AND IIOUSEVMH: being a collection of valuable Recipes and Uirectioie relating to Agriculture and Domestic Economy. B Thomas G. 1'esse.vde.\, Esq. Price 60 cents. The folloxring notice of this work is txlrttcled from th Massachusetts Agricvllural Journal for June 18-2. "We have read it with attention, and think it wel adapted to the use of farmers, who would not go to thi expense of purchasing larger works. It is a coUectioi of receipts, many of which are from high authority, an( all of them, as far as they are accurate, calculated lb daily and constant use. That errors should creep int. such a work must be expected. The reci))es arc oliii taken from such transient works, or sources, that i would be impossible for the compiler to vouch for tliei efficacy or exactitude— but still its use must be \'T) great to the class of people fcr. whom it was princi|!:ill] ml uded.'- August 3. NEW ENGLAND FARMER. blibhed every Saturday, by THOMAS W. SHI:FA1U), Holers' liuildinj:, C;oii,2:ri-ss t^trK t, Boslo it S-',50 per anil, in advaiin-, or $3,00 at the close of the year. i-^OL. I. BOSTOiN, SATURDAY, AUGUST 17, 1822. No. 3. From the American Farmer. I le immense importance pf durable timber for farming ] as well as naval purposes, gives an interest to every judicious, or even plausible speculation on the sub- ject. The communication from a person of Commo- dore Porter's intelligence, will of course attract at- t'lition : especially when viewed in connexion with hi, .nHcial station, which peculiarly demands the best attainable knowledge of the matter. Believing the opinion he has given, which is, and probably has been for ages that generally received, to be errone- ous; and thinking it possible that 1 might throw some light on the subject ; — I submit to your readers the following observations on the FELLING OF TREES FOR TIMBER. In the 22d number, volume III, of the Amer- an Fanner, is a letter from D. Porter, (com- otlorc Porter) on " The best time to fellTim- ;r with a view to its (hirability" ; in answer one from the Editor, requesting a communi- ition on the subject. The commodore, " avail- Ef himself (as he says) of the knowledge and iiperience of others, in support of his opinion," ates this to be, that " the most proper season if felling timber with a view to its durability, in the winter, when the sap has ceased to cir- ilate." This corresponds with the opinion 1 ave heard generally expressed, ever since I Dticed observations on the subject ; and the recise time in the winter is fixed, by tradition, to the old of the moon in February." Many years (perhaps half a century) have (lapsed, since 1 have been inclined to doubt 'hether the animal and vegetable kingdoms ere under the government of the moon. The jmmodore thinks its " influence nearly if not luite as powerful as [that of] the sun." He Bks, " why that body [the moon] whose attrac- ons can raise the tides and influence all animal reation, should not have the power to put the ip of vegetables into circulation, assisted as it is y capillary attraction ?" — As heat is essentia) J give motion to the sap in plants, and the hea. f the sun is adequate to that effect, it is not ne essary to seek for any other cause ; still less ti esort to one merely conjectural. No means yei ried have discovered any heat in the rays o. ight from the moon. If any effects on vegetation were ascribable to he moons attraction, yet in an entire revolution, ts diflerent distances are not so considerable, a- 0 produce very different effects. Besides coni- lining its different periods, it is as near the earth n its decrease, as in its increase ; and its pow- ;r of attraction must be the same in both cases. The sowing of seeds, therefore, and their vege- ation, and the growth of the plants proceeding "rem them, cannot, (as the commodore seems to suppose) be influenced by the phases or appear- mces of the moon. The notion of the moon"'; 'influence on all animal creation," if not a nov- jlty, I believe to be altogether visionary. An- iently, indeed, mad people were supposed to be affected or influenced by the moon ; and thence were called lunatics : but that opinion seems now to be exploded. I am indeed satis'l- ed (contrary to the general belief) that ckanges in the weather have no dependence on the moon ; but happen indifferently at all periods of its in- Srease and decrease. It has not heat to raise wa- tery vapours from the earth, or to suspend them in the air ; and under the same aspect of the moon, the weather is fair at one place and foul in another. No one can doubt that " dryness is favorable and moisture unfavorable to the durability of timber ;" and in winter the sap of trees is prob- ably inspissated to a considerable degree ; but no living tree is then '• devoid of sap." — The important question, therefore, in relation to the felting of timber trees, is, I am inclined to think, not simply Xi'he7i trees have the smallest quantUy of sap ; but at Xii/iaf season the sap they Contain -jcill most easily escape or be expelled. The facts 1 am going to state may show this to be in the spring, wlien the sap is thinnest and flowing in the greatest abundance. In the year 1800, divested of public employ- ment, and about to commence husbandman, I made a visit to the late Joseph Cooper, of New .lersey, one of the most intelligent farmers I ev- er knew, to converse with him on the subject of his vocation. Among other things, he spoke of timber ; and stated the following facts. His farm lying on the Delaware river nearly oppo- site to Philadelphia, was exposed to the rava- ges of the British army while occupying that city. Pressed for fuel, his fences first fell a prey to their necessities. In the month of May 1778, they cut down a quantity of his white oak trees : but circumstances requiring their sudden evacu- ation of the city, his fallen timber was saved. — The trees he split into posts and rails. The ensuing winter, in the old of the moon in Februa- ry, he felled an additional quantity of his white oaks, and split them also into posts and rails to carry on his fencing. It is now, said he two uid twenty years since the fences made of the May-felled timber were put up, and Ihey are yet sound ; whereas those made of the trees felled in February, were rotting in about 1:2 years. He then pronounced confidently, that the best time for Jelling timber trees, for durability, .cas when their sap ■aas vigorously Jloiuing. He ^aid, also, that white oak and hickory trees foil- ed at that season, would not be attacked by the ivorms, producing what is called " powder post." And added that hoop-poles of oak and hickory ought, for this reason to be cut the same season. In the same year, accident threw in my way •.he late Oliver Evans' book on the construction of mills ; to which was subjoined a treatise of a Mr. Ellicot, a mill wright, on the same subject. Turning over some of the leaves of this trea- tise, I lighted on the passage in which the au- thor directed hickory timber, intended for the cogs of wheels, to be cut when the sap was run- ning, that they might not become powder post. — In the following winter (1801) being in Boston, and conversing with a friend from the country on subjects of husbandry, I repeated Mr. Coop- er"'s observations, as aliove stated. This friend then mentioned a farmer, the well pole (or sweep) of whose well happened to break at a very '>usy time : that to supply its place, he cut down the first small tree that came to hand , and this was a white birch. The sap then running free- ly, he stripped off the bark, and put up his pole ; and it lasted seventeen years. Had he put it up with the bark on, it would probably have rotted in a year ; the closeness of the birch hark present- ing the escape of the .sap. A close coat of jiaint, laid on unseasoned wood, operates like the close birch bark, by confining the sap, and hastening its decay.* More than fifty years* ago, feeing a quantify of logs with the bark on, piled up by a chair maker's shop, 1 asked him why he did not split them, that they might the sooner get seasoned. He answered, that so long as the bark remain- ed on the logs the sap remained in them, and they were more easy to be dressed and turned. 0:;5"Un!ess timber trees he cut when the sap i.= running, the bark cannot be stripped ofl ; tho' with considerable labor it may be removed by the axe and drawing knife ; but less porfectlj'. The late Mr. Bordley (who was vice-presi- dent of the Philadelphia Society of Agriculture, from its formation in 1785, until his death) once told me, that when riding in the vicinity of Philadelphia, he met a master ship-builder, who had been viewing some trees for ship timber. Mr. Bordley mentioned to him the greater val- ue of ships built with the tinibt'r of trees allow- ed to remain gfandiiig a length of time after their bark had been stripped oft". The ship- wright said he was fully sensible of it ; the ships would last so much longer. Why then, asked Mr. Bordley, do you not adopt that practice ? Because, said the shipwright, such timber be- comes very hard, and costs much more labor to work it. — ^I have heard new settlers dispute, which was the best way of clearing woodlands ; whether by girdling (chopping the bark all round the trees to stop the circulation of the sap, when the}' gradually die) and letting the tree stand ; and at once seeding the land for a crop : or by cutting all down at first, and burn- ing. The advocates of the latter mode, said, that by girdling and letting the trees stand, they became dry, and so hard as greatly to increase the labor of afterwards cutting them down. "Dr. Plott [who wrote in the 17th century] says, it is found by long experience, that the trunks or bodies of trees when barked in the spring, and left standing naked all the summer, exposed to the sun and the wind, are so dried and hardened, that the sappy part in a manner becomes as firm and durable as the heart itself'i This is confirmed by M. Bufl'on, who in 1738, presented to the Royal Academy of Sciences at Paris, a memoir, entitled " An easy method of increasing the solidit}', strength and duration of timber ;" for which purpose he observes, " noth- ing more is necessary than to strip the tree en- tirely of its bark during the season of the rising of the sap, and to leave it to dry before it be cut dowii."t * In confirmation of the opinions advanced by Col. Pickering, we can add, that poles cut from the green willow, the tenderest and least durable of our trees, in June, and stripped, became extremely tough and hard, so as to be applicable to many uses, such as ladders, &c. for which spruce is used. The loppings of all trees cut off in .lime become extremely hard, and will endure for years without rotting. These we know to be facts. Editors. t See British Encyclopaedia, article Tree ; also Rees' Cyclopedia, article Timber. 18 NEW E-NGLAXD FARMER. Bui why should limber tree's be foiled in May, (or when (he sap is trcfly running.) as in the r.a^e stated by .loseph Cooper; or barked and left standing until dry, according to EulTon, be more -durable tiian timber felled according to the prevailing & popular notion, of the old of liie Moon in February ? For an answer 1 olfer the ibllowing conjecture. — The thinner and more fluid any body is, the sooner and mure pci iVct- ly it will evaporate. The sap of trees is doubt- less more inspissated, or of thicker consistence, in winter than in the spring, when it is appa- rently thin and watery. In the lalter state it will IJnd its way, and escape, tlirough tlie pores of the wood, with vastly greater case and ex- pedition than when, as in winter, it is much inspissated. Moia^ses, conden-'^ed by tlie "in- ter's ccM, runs very slowly through tubes of a large size. In summer, the same molas=es swelling to a large volume, and becoming very thin, w:ll pass through very small tubes, and, I believe through the pores of some sons of wood. The same substance (molasses) exposed, in a small quantity, to the hot sun of summer, would soon discharge its more tluid parts, and at length leave, as I suppose, a solid substance behind : but if much diluted with water, would not the whole substance be nearly if not cpiite carried otl" by evaporation ? — the same reasoning may apply to trees left standing, alter being divested of their bark in the spring. It appears by some English books that their usual time lor felling oaiis is in the month of .\- pril, when the sap is running, and they can strip otr the bark for tanning. But the commodore states, " tkat in all their contrccis for !i,nberj'nr naval purposes, the influence of the moon on the sap is more guarded against than any other;"' and he adds, what seems very extraordinary, that " more attention is paid to the time of the ■moon when timber should be cut, than to the neason of the year; for (;is before remai'ked) seeing tlie moon is at the =ams distances from the earth during its decrease us its increase, its power of attraction must be the samp in both ca- ses ; and consequently all the different effects which tradition has a.scribed to the icani:!'; and the ^caxing moon must be vis'ionary. The miUuritij of t.mlier is quite another thing ; ;ind probably of more unportance than the time of telling it. There i> a point of ripeness when freci acquire tlieir gn-atest soli] which are made of wood the usual growth of this coun- try. i)r. .•\nderson, in early life a prartic;il farmer, a man of letters, and an ingenious and philoso[)h- ical observer of nature, appears, nevertheless, to be entirely mistaken in his ideas of the cause of the liarilncss and strength of wood, and in ascribing to the same cause in part, its dura- bility. Mentioning the rings in trees which mark their growth, he says — "as one of these rings is added to the circumference of the free! each year of it< growth and forms the whole m- 1 crement of the tree for that year, it follows, thatj the less that increment is, or in other word~, ; the sloii-er the trees grow, the less will be the j breadth [thickness] of those rings, and of course, the closer the grain of the wood, and the harder also it will be." Just the reverse of this is the' fact. Kvery farmer and carpenter, in the United States, knows that the thicker the annual ring, or, in the common language, the larger the grain, the harder and stronger is the wood. Hence the butt-cuts oiv.hite oak are preferred for the spokes of wheels, and ol hickory for axe helves. Every wood-chopper also knows how much eas- ier it is to fell and cut np the trees growing with small grains in a close forest, than trees of the same kinds which have grown singly and faster in open grounds. And every man who has used husbandr}' tools, a fork or rake for in- stance, whose handles are of ash, knows how- much harder, stronger, and heavier, because more solid, they are when made of timber with large grains, which had grown la^t in good soils, or at such distances from tree to tree as not to rob one another of their food, — than v.hen of small grained slow growing timber. But the timber of trees, pasture oaks for instance, stand- ing singly and at distances from others, and which are of rapid growth and consequently with large annnal rings, or grains, though twice as tough and strong, is found, I have long under- stood less durable than the timber of oaks of slou'cr grovith. The reason is obvious. The oaks in forests do not attain the sizes fitting them for ship timber, until they have reached the age oC iiiaturily or ripeness. In this state they may probably continue stationary for some years : but if left standing for many years after they are 01 full age, the toughness and strength of the wood are greatly impaired. But patture or oth- er fast gro-i'ing oaks, attaining, i'l much fewer years, sizes suitable for ship-building and other uses, arc sometimes cut down heforo they come of age, before they are mature, or perfected h>j time : and hence t'.- earlier fire, old wood for timber.''' In reference to the memoir of M. BulTon, he- foro mentioned, the authors of the British En- cycl(q)a'dia, say that '-By many experiments, par- ticularly d(scrd)ed in that essay, it ap[iears that the tree shoulil not bo foiled till the third year after it has been stripped of the bark ; that it is then perfectly dry, and the sap [saj) wood] be- comes almost as strong as the rest of the timber, and stronger tlian the heart of any other oak tree which has not been so stripped : and the whole of tho timber stron'zcr and heavier,* and harder ; from which he thinks it fair to con- clude, that it is also more durable." And they 'Essay.s on AsiiciUturc, Vol. III. * \i heniirr -when of (1ip .samf hulk with coinmnn tim- ber, its f'llircs must lir cin.trr tni;rlhir^ be tlurd'orc liss fcrvious Iq moisture, :\atl conscqu;-utly mure durulU. add, that " the navy board, m answer to ihe en quirics of the commissioners of the land revenue in May, 1739, informed them thr.tthey had thei standing some trees stripped of their bark t\V( year= before, in order to try the experiment o building one half of a sloop of war with tha timber, and the other half with timber fellec and stripped in the common way." — '• We an sorry that we are not able to inform our reader- of the re-^ult of the experiment." Commodore Porter and his colleagues of IIk American Navy Boanl, may have it in theii power to make, and can-y into complete etfec the same cxi)eriment. So may fanners possess ed of timber trees. To render tho experimen more fair and conclusire, trees as nearly as pos sible o!' the same size, and growing in the sam( soil, sliould be selected. Growing in the vicini ty of each other, the equality of size will be at indication of an erpnilitij of age, — a point proba bly, of material importance. The-c experiments I hope will be made ex tensively i>y farmers, in preparing their tree^ for (encing, find for carts and other implement- much exposed (ot'tcn unnecessarily) to al changes of the weather. For however plausibb theories may appear, careful experiments alone can determine their correctness. — Experiment: by farmers may very easily be made, in Iheii fences ; by having some panels (or lengths o rail-*) of timber prepared in one way and ther a like number of timber prepared in the other .\t tiie same time too. they can try an expori- ment to ascertain whether, in post and rail fen- ces, tho rails, with their heart edges downwards, will last longer (as the commodore supposes] than with those edges ujiwards, in the modt universally practised. He suggests that the concentric rings (the annual growths) in tree- split into rails, and those placed in fences with their edges upwards, form so many cups or hol- lows, into which the rains and dews tailing on the rails enter ; and ha\ ing no other way to es- cape, soak through the rings to the sap wood and bark on the under side, and thereby hasten the rotting of the heart wood above, I muci) doubt the correctness of this theory. Rails placed with their heart edges upwards, have very sleep r«ofs, by which water spceilily runs off. Their heart-wood soon seasons, and its surface becomes close, without visible cracks But place the broad bark side upwards, the fall- ins; water rests louger upon it, an^l enters the sap wood, often an inch or more in thickness, and as soon as this siiall become rotten, it will bo a spungc to receive and hold water, to soak into and gradually rot the heart-wood below. Such is my view of this subject : but lot experiments bo made. For the purposes of the navy, or oth- er shi,pbui!ding; experiments may also be easily made; though not so satisfactorily as by con- structing a vessel with the two sorts of timber as designed by the Engli.-h Navy Board. An equal number of pieces of timber lolled in the two ditfcrcnt ways, may be dressed to the same sizes, and equally exposed to the weather in all I its changes; and to expedite the result, they may be often immersed in water, so as to be almost daily wet and dry. Hickory (in New England generally called Walnut) grows in many parts of our country. It is a tough and hard wood ; but when exposed to the weather, soon decays ; yet may, it seems be advantageously used in salt waters inlestcd.; NEW ENGLAND FARMER. rd villi worms. Eighteen or twenty years ago, vassin" by a saw mill jjlaced on tide water, 1 iLiservetl some hickory planks. 1 asked the awyer lor what use they were intended. He ' nsivered, for the sluice ways or other water "•i-orks, of tide mills ; because, not liable, like ak, to be eaten by the worms. Passing a few ays ago by some tide mills ou the same streams, mentioned the fact just stated to one of the roprietors. They continue to use hickory for he same purpose, "because, said he, "the worms on"t touch it." Any person inclined to make rials of this wood for such purposes rnay pre- iously ascertain the fact, by sinking two pieces, nc ol' oak and the other of hickory, in waters ''.here worms are known to abound; and after few months takinc;- them up again. TIMOTHY PICKERING. Salem, Sept. 10, 18'21. * From the New England ralladium. DOMESTIC COFFKi'^ I haf^ learned, to my great concern, that tiie ood peo]de of Boston, and some parts of its icinitv, have lately acquired the practice of sing ivhat they call " Domestic Coffee," by ■ay of economy ; and after making some inqui- V concerning it, 1 find some of it to be a com- ound of half IJye and half imported Coffee round togetiier. When I made this discovery, was at no srreat loss to account for the vast umber of persons, who, of late, have suffered mch from weakness in their limbs, and debili- ited systems. Rye is peculiarly calculated to roduce that effect, in whatever way it may be sod — more especially when it has been roast- d and ground with cotTee where everj' particle f fluid is extracted and absorbed in the coffee. Let Rye be ground into meal, and bread lade of the meal be eaten without sifting, and will have an effect similar to opium. Let le bran be given to pigs, and it will make lem lie down and swell with weakness ; hut a erson may eat of the tine meal without wit- essing anv ill etiects. The reason of this is, lat the debilitating lluid is attached to the hull f the grain. Let a horse eat as much Rye as he will, and will destroj' him, by taking away first the rength of his limbs, and then that of hi^^ whole II ody. -i Friend lo Health. k HVWIOPHOBIA. The Baltimore Chronicle gives an account of distressing case of the hydrophobia which oc- urred in that city last week. Mr. Samuel )unham, who was bitten by a mad dog nine .eeks since, died on the 20th ult. in horrid gonies. He was convulsed in every joint; rothed at the mouth ; and it required the trength of two men to hold him in his bed — otwithstanding he was bitten so long arjo, it fas only on Thursday last that he exhibited ecided symptoms of the hydrophobia, and be- ,'lllore Friday night he was a cold corpse. The eceasod, amidst all his spasms and agonies, re- ained the clear possession of his reason to the ast. lie has left a wife and several children. 'I'o the Kditor of the American Farmer. rOU.VDER TN HOr.SFS. Paris, Bouivu7i Co. K'lj, Dear S'ir, .\fter a journey devoid of interest, owing to the lateness of the season, I have arrived in Kentucky, and being desirous of communicating a cure for '• Foundering," recently known ; 1 make one effort to conduce to the value of your present work, the American farmer. One of the writers in your " Farmer''' calls foundering, "chills and founder," and compares it to inflammatory rheumatisms ; I apprehend he does not understand the disease in all its stages ; — it evidently proceeds from surfeit. A horse rode until heated and fatigued, and fed too plentifully while warm and hungry — and swallov.'ing his food too grcedih', that he may lie down and rest his wearied limbs ; — and the stable being wet or damp, and the horse in a copious sweat, arc reasons the best that can be given, for the formation of the disease. Instead of rising up refreshed, the poor ani- mal is stiff and useless. Ifhehadgot leave to cool perfectly, a.-.d been fed sparingly, he would have escaped this sore complaint. The cure is a lump of alum the size of a walnut, reduced lo powder and dis-'olvetl in warm water; the horse must be drenched with this liquid, which in a short time will throw him into profuse perspiration, and he will be able to pursue his journey the next day, and if not liadly foundered, in a few hours. You will keep it out of sight that this com- munication comes from a woman, as 1 wish to escape the '' \^'c.rl^^s JreaJ langh, which scarce " The Tirin philosopher can scorn.*'' Yet it is a fact that I always prized fine horses, and endeavored, by every means in my power, to alleviate their pain. Pray do not put yourself to the expense of sending seed you have to purchase. I hope you received the last seed I sent you enclosed in a letter from Missouri, particularly the " Pra- irie Sensitive Plant" seed. P. S, — The valuable remedy for the founder was communicated by Col. B. Chambers, who experienced its good effect on his own horses, and others. A Cucumber grew this season, in the garden f Mr. Lovell Fames, in Framin^hani, measur- ig 18 inches in length and 7 inches in circum- 2rcncc. — Statesman. (iir The authoress of the above is amongst our most valued and useful correspondents, worth a million of indolent men, who neither write nor think any thing useful to society — and yet who call themselves the Lords of the creation — acting the while the part of sluggish drones — -J'ntgcs consumere naii. From the New Yorlc Mechanic's Gazette. AMERICAN Sir.K GOOnS. Mr. .las. Read has done us the favor to call at our olhce to show a piece of elegant blue strip- ed silk, manufactured by him for a suit of chair and sofa coverings, for the Hon. Mr. Crawford, secretary of the treasury. It is made of Italian and American silk, the latter of which is made at Mansfield, Con. where wc understand that the silk worm is cultivated to a considerable extent. Mr. Read's vest patterns, and watch chains have heretofore received public notice ; they are said to be equal to the best English, and can be afforded on equal terms, but the S^pccimen of silk above referred to (about forty yards) far sur[)asses any thing we expected to see of domestic manufacture for many years to come, and is a flattering specimen of taste and ingenuity, which cannot faif to meet with en- rouragcmont. We hope that Mr. Read ^vill be. favored with similar orders from our wealthy citizens, who can have their taste gratified with any color and pattern they may select. From tlie Boston Patriot. DOMESTIC WI.NE. Wc arc informed that an enterprising agri- culturist in Newton, through whoso altcntioii and a])iilication to the raising and cullivating of fruit trees many of the farms and garden;^ in the vicinity of our city have been furnished with the best of fruit, has this season manufactured seven hundred gallons of Currant Wine. This, it will be recollected, is manufactured by one individual. Should the same spirit of enter- prise prompt one individual in each town in tin- Commonwealth to produce an equal quantity of this pleasant beverage, we should soon need no importations cf common wines, hut might rely wholly upon the product of our own gardens, for a supply for domestic consumption. On Monday, says the Newark, N.J. Ccntinel, we were presented by Mr. Leonard Richards, with a Green Gage, (a species of plum) of aii extraordinary size. It measured six inches in circumference, and weighed 2 1-2 ounces. From the Hainpihirc Gazette. Tobacco. — Experiments are making in Penn- sylvania with the Cuba Tobacco, so celebrated for its line flavor; it promises well and several loads have been cut and housed ; some of the leaves are 25 inches long, and 16 broad. This kind of tobacco is said to be worth jj^Ct) per hundred in the Havana. Cattle. — It is stated in a Hamburgh paper of April last that two oxen raised in the county of Holsfein Ditmarsen, Germany, weighed, after being killed, as follows. Largest ox 44u2 Eng- lish pounds, the second 4034 pounds. Leeches. — It is stated in a London paper that a gentleman after applying eight leeches to an inflammation, deliberately cut off their tails ; notwithstanding which they continued to adhere as before, whilst the blood poured thro' Iheni in an uninterrupted streamT The editor ob- serves that these leeches resemble some state leeches, called ininisters of state. The following experiments were made with a thermometer, at the Navy Yard, in Norfolk, Va. on the 2d inst. At half past 11 the toraperafure in a house was 83 degrees. The thermometer was then suspended in the open air, sheltered from the rays of the sun by a 6/otiU linen umbrella, when it rose in a few minutes to 93. It was next placed under a silk umbrella, and in the same period rose to 97. Exposed to the sun it stood at II-'. A very general alarm prevails respecting thtr danger from canine madness. Measures to aC- fonl greater security to the Citizens have been adopted in most Cities, and are conceived by many, to be greatlj' needed in this. Palladium. 20 NEW ENGLAND FAilMER. Facts a.\d observations nEL.\TiNG to AGRICULTURE fc DOMESTIC ECONOMY. POTATOES ~ Should be du? and housed as soon as they ;trc- ripe, and before the vines arc entirely dead. In this state they generally adhere to and may be pulled out of ground with them; but if they remain in the ground until the vines are quite dead they sejKiratc from the vines, and the ex- pense of digging them will be greatly increas- ed. A sort of an hoe, with prongs or claws like a fork, and fixed at the end of an handle like a common hoe, and which may be had at the Agricultural Establishment of Lincoln Fear- ing, &i Co. ]So. 20, Merciianfs Row, near the old Market, Boj^ton, is said to be very useful, and much superior to the common hoe for dig- ging potatoes, as well as for various other pur- poses. It is said that a very good kind of fodder for horned cattle may be made of potatoe tops, by spreading and dr3'ing them on grass ground in the vicinity of the potatoe field. We are told that in the Southern states, they reap about two thirds the length of the potatoe tops, and dry them on mowing land in the usual v.ay of hay-making. Several tons may thus, sometimes, be collected from an acre, and no damage be done to the potatoes, if the tops are not gath- ered till the potatoes are ripe. The following method of preserving potatoes was communicated by Mr. Millington (England) to the Society for Bettering the Condition of the Poor : — I caused, (says this gentleman) three pounds and a half of potatoes to be peeled and rasped ; then put in a coarse cloth, between two boards, and pressed them into a dry cake, hardly so thick as a thin cheese. They were then plac- ed on a shelf to dry. There was about a quart of juice expressed from the potatoes. To this was added about a like quantity of water, and in about an hour it deposited more than sixty grains of white starch or flour, tit to make pas- try. A cake of this was prepared and sent to the Society. In bulk it occupied only a sixth of the compas.s of the potatoes ; in weight it had lost about two-thirds by the process ; but the cake, when dressed with steam or other- wise, will produce nearly the same quantity of food as three pounds and a half of potatoes, properly dressed for the table would do. Some potatoes, quite frozen, have been pre])ared this way, and the cake was perfectly sweet; where- as some of the same parcel that were left, and not pressed, were spoiled in a few days. PARING AND BURNING. A new method of "burning without fire" has been lately discovered. This consists in sub- stituting quick-lime for fire. The lime in its most caustic state, fresh from the kiln, is laid upon the vegetable surface to be consumed ; and before it is wealiened by exposure to the air, a quantity of water just suilicient to put it in powerful action, is applied. This process unites the advantages of burning and liming, and is probably the readiest and cheapest mode of fertilizing soils, which snperabound with veg- etable matter, and for which lime would prove a suitable manure. French mode of making Brandy-Peaches. Preserved fruit is generally cloying, and of- ten tunes unwholesome to the stomach, because of its vtimixed szeectncss., arising from the man- ner in which they are usually prepared. The most grateful ])reparalion of the peach we have ever seen, is that which is accomidish- ed by the following process : Scald them in hot water, then dip them in hot strong lie, rub them with a cloth and throw them into cold water; make a syrup of 3-4 of a pound of sugar to one pound of fruit, and when cold put in an equal quantity of brandy. Aintr. Farmer. BUTTER. The following is given as an improved meth- od of preventing the bitter taste which butter has from cattle feeding on turnips, cabbages, leaves of trees, &.c. Boil two ounces of salt petre in a quart of water, and put two or more spoonfuls, according to the quantity of milk, in- to a pail beiore milking ; if this is done con- stantly, it will prevent the taste of turnips, but it will not be etfected if even once neglected. This has been proved by twenty years experi- ence, and if it does not succeed the fiirmers may rest assured that the fault arises from the neg- lect of their dairy maid. — ibid. " To generate the best kind of seeds, the most healthy plants must be chosen, and those which are most early in respect to the season ; these should be so insulated, as to have no weak plants of the same species, or even genus, in their vicinity, lest the fecundating dust of weak- er plants should be blown by the winds upon the stigmata of the stronger, and thus produce a less vigorous progeny. " When new varieties are required, the male dust of one good variety, as of the nonpareil apple, should be shed upon the stigmas of ano- ther good variety, as of the golden-pi{)pin ; and it is probable that some new excellent variety might be thus generated." Danvin''s Phytologia. Working Oxen. — When oxen refuse to work equally well on either side, or when they pull off against each other, yoke them on the side you wish them to work, and turn them out to feed in that ua}'; they soon become accustom- ed to it, and work afterwards on either side alike. — Amer. Farmer. Dr. Lettsom observes that in general, pies are more advantageous than roasting or boiling. This he illustrates. Of mutton, 64 ounces in a p)je^ made with L'4 ounces of wheat flour, and oaten with 8 1-4 ounces of bread, in all 96 1-4 ounces, dined eight persons fully ; whilst 60 oz. of mutton roasted, and eaten with 'o3 ounces of bread, in all 03 ounces, dined only iive of the same persons. Potatoe Pudding. 12 oz. of potatoes, boiled, skinned and mashed, 1 do. suet, 1 do. milk, that is, two spoonfuls, 1 do. cheese. Mix all together with boiling water to a due consistence. Bake it. Instead of cheese, there may be an ounce of red herring pounded line in a mortar. — Lettsom. Potatoe Bread., in England. A skillet of potatoes, with cold water is hung at some distance over the fire, that the water may ?iot boil., till the potatoes become soft. — Then skin, mash, and mix them with their weight of wheat Hour, and also with the je^ist, salt and warm water wanted. Knead all too-oth. er. Lay the mass a little before a fire to rise • then bake in a very hot oven. Flour of rice of barley may be used instead of that from wheat. Another mode is given by the Board ofdi^ri culture. It directs, to select the most' me'dy sort, and boil and skin them. Break and strain 12 lbs. of potatoes through a very coarse bait sieve, or a very fine one of wire, so as to re diice the pulp as near as possible to a tlour, This quantity makes nine loaves of 5 lbs. each, in dough ; or when baked about two hours, 48 lbs. of excellent bread. Dr. Fothergill says, if potatoe bread is cul beiore it is a day old, it will not appear enough baked ; because of the potatoe moisture. He adds, never slice potatoes with a knife, raw oi boiled, but break and mash with the hand or s spoon, otherwise they will not be soft. Doctor Lettsom next proceeds tO'give the besi soups; according to Mr. Justice Colquhoup. \. Potatoe Soup. — Colquhoun. SteTJi' b poui^b coarsest parts of beef or mut ton, in 10 quarts of water till half done.* Add quantity of potatoes skinned, and some onions pepper and salt.— Stir frequently and boil enough Bones of beef added would increase the soup it richness or quantity. mills Estimate in mills. 5 lbs. coarse beef at 60 mills 30t 13ones, to enrich it - 5J Potatoes 24 lbs. or 1-3 bushel Onions, a bunch Pejiper and Salt - . - It gives 10 quarts of soup, meat and potatoes and dines 10 men at nearly 5 cents. A red h ring is said to be a good substitute for onioi pepper and salt ; but red pepper may be added II. Barley Broth. — Colquhoun. It admits of a mixture of almost every kini of garden vegetable, and is never out of season Onions or leeks and parsley are alwaj's a pan of the ingredients ; besides which, cabbage oi greens, turnips, carrots, and peas may be added A teacup of barley sufiices for a large family.— Pear/ barley is dearer, yet not so good as thi common husked or Scotch dressed barley. Watej 4 quarts, beef 4 pounds, with bones, barley ounces, [Count Ruraford says barley meal is beJ ter than whole barley for thickening broth, ant making it more nourishing.] Ste-u^ all togethe ^ two hours. Then add the herbs cut small, an salt. The whole then boils till tender. Skii off the fat or not, as you like it. Onions or leek must not be omitted. 111. A plain good food, 'dcilh very little meat, an jtj, as 'jihotcsome as can be obtained from xijlicat o barley. — Colquhoun. Cut half a pound of beef, mutton or pork, io to small pieces ; add half a pint of peas, 3 slice< turnips, and 3 potatoes cut very small ; an onioi or two, or leeks. — Put to them 7 pints of watei and boil the whole gently, over a slow fire fo 2 1-2 hours. Thicken with a quarter pound o ground rice, and one-eighth pound of oat meal (or 1-4 lb. pound of oat me;d or barley meal without rice.) Boil 1-4 hour after the thick ening is put in, stirring it all the time. That season with salt and pepper, or ground gingei As only a pint will be lost in boiling, it is a men for 4 persons, and will cost 2 cents each persor IV. Cul into very small bits, 2 pounds of beei mutton, or pork, out of the tub, or hung bee) Ml NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 21 " reslifiicd in water; and jJUt thorn in a pot with is quarts water. Boil nioxa near three hours, ■r ratlier ste-^v till tender. Add 1-4 lb. carrots ir parsnips, and 1-2 lb. turnips, all sliced small, iometimes instead of them a tew potatoes sliced ; ilso add some greens, cabbage, cellery, spinach, )arsley, and two ounces onions or leeks. Thick- •n with a pint of oat meal, (or a quart to make t very thick.) Boil it well together, and sea- on with pepper or ground ginger and salt. It vill serve a i'uniily ni' six for a day. Or it may le thickened with any kind of meal, or barley, leas, beans or rice. V. Take 4 lbs. beef, onions 3-4 lb. turnips 2 bs. rice 1 1-2 lbs. parsley, savory, thyme, of ;ach a large handful, pepper and salt ; water 17 quarts. Cut the beef into slices, and after spiling it some time, mince it small. The tur- lips and onions infused, and sweet herbs may be minced before they go to the pot. Boil the (vhole gci'tlji together about three hours on a ■hxv tire. Scarcely two quarts will be wasted n boiling. The rest will serve 18 person* for 3ne meal. Cost 2 cents each. Where fuel is scarce, the materials in the three above receipts may be stewed in a pot, all oight, in an ov en, and will next day require but 1 quarter hour boiling. VI. Bake in an earthen pot, a shank of beef, n six quarts of water, with a pint of peas, a ieek, and lour or five turnips sliced. COW. The principal distinguishing marks of a good Dow are said to be these : wide horns, a thin lead and neck, dew lap large, full breast, broad Jack, large deep belly ; the udder capacious Jut not too fleshy ; the milch veins prominent, md the bag tending far behind ; teats long and arge ; buttocks broad and fleshy ; tail long, )liable and small in proportion to the size of :he carcase, and lh€ joints short. To these out- ^•ard marks may be added a gentle disposition, I temper free from any vicious tricks, and per- fectly manageable on every occasion. On the jther hand, a cow with a thick head and short leck, prominent back bone, slender chest, belly racked up, small udder or a fleshy bag, short teats, and thin buttocks is to be avoided, as lo- cally until for the purposes either of the dairy, the suckler or the grazier. The milch cow is generally in her prime at five years old, and will continue in a good milk- ing state till ten years of age or upwards. Cows should be milked regularly, morning and even- ing, and always as nearly at the same hours as may be. Some have recommended milking them three times a day, at live, one and eight ; and it is said if they arc full fed they will give half as much again milk if milked thrice as if only twice a day. Those farmers who would make the most of their cows should provide a bull to run in the herd. ON STALL FEEDING. " Stall feeding of bullocks with potatoes, giv- en in different states of preparation, has been for some time extensively practised in Sussex, and is much approved of by many. They there find that a beast of from one hundred and forty to one hundred and sixty stone* weight cats from one to two bushels of the roots in the course of the day, but consumes but little hay, or not much more than ten or twelve pounds in that space of time." " .\nd a careful expcn- inenter, >vho was largely in the )>ractitc of fat- tening oxen wilh them, it is said, gave them up — from the conviction that with every ad- vantage of breed, attention, warmth, and clean- liness in regard to the animals, they would not pay more than four pence the bushel.'" " Further, the Swedish turnip when it is cul- tivated in a proper manner, is a most valuable root, when used with this intention." — " In some trials which we have lately attended to, it was foinul to have the advantage, nearly in the pro- portion of one fourth; and in other experiments, it is said to have gone still farther in this use." " And the proportion in which they are con- sumed by the fattening stock, has been found to be something more than a third of the weight of the cattle" by some ; but by others, about a third in the day, as stated in the Gentleman Far- mer. However, in other experiments carefully made, an ox of from seventy to eighty stone has been ascertained to eat something less than three hundred weight in the course of a day, besides chaff and hay ; and small cows of about thirty stone, one hundred weight and three quarters in the same time. And in the Rev. Mr. Close's trials it was found, that when consumed in stalls and sheds, an acre of^ooi^ turnips, will completely winter fat an ox of fifty score ;" — "When this root in given in the stall, from its very succulent nature, it becomes necessary to employ as much' dry food as possible during the use of it, in order to the expeditious fatten- ing of the cattle by such means." Rees^ Cijdopitdia. Cud fast by an ox or cow, — remedy for. Mix together an equal quantity of sour leaven and common salt, then add a piece of loam or brick clay, equal in weight to the whole : break and mix all these well together, and then add as much urine as will serve to beat it up into a paste. Make this into two or three balls as big as the creature can swallow, force one of these down his throat every tliree days and it is said it will effect a cure. Receipt for American Tokay. A barrel of good new cider from the press Let it ferment, carefully brushing off the froth, as it comes out of the "bung-hole. When the fermentation ceases, draw it off and add as much honey as will give it strength enough to bear an egg ; return it to the barrel which should be washed clean. It will now undergo a second fermentation, which must be treated as the first, and when that ceases, add half a gill of French or peach brandy, for every gallon. Bung it tight and so let it remain until the March fol- lowing, when in a calm, clear and dry day, it should be bottled. — Jlmcr. Farmer. * Meaning probably tight pounds to the stone. MASSACHUSETTS AGRICULTURAL REPOSITORY AND JOURNAL, FOR JUNE. (Continued from p. 11.) Tlie next article to those which we have before re- marked upon, has the signature, " ^ Roxbury Farmer,'''' and is entitled " A comparison of ttie present with some past seasons." This article we have given at large in the 1st No. p. 2. It appears to be one of a series of similar notices which have for a number of years been published by the same author. Such a Kalendar, reg- ularly kept from year to year, cannot fail of proving of great importance, " if cultivators, instead of consulting the almanack will attend to the indications of nature." Dr. j)'_anc, in hi^< /'ui'/nirV JJictionuri/, cbservcdj " That great naturalist Linnicu?, did not approve cT farmer's confining themselves to certain set days, c-r weeks, for committing their seeds to the earth. 'J'hc- seasons are much forwarder in some years than in otli- ers ; therefore, he, who thus governs himself, will as- suredly sow his annual seeds sometimes too early and sometimes too late. " That a better practice might be introduced, he re- commended it to his countrymen to take notice at what time the trees unfolded their leaves, tc. " In order to reduce to practice so ingenious a hint, an account should be made out of the first leafing, and I may add the blossoming of a variety of trees and shrubs. I suppose trees and slirubs to be most suitable for this purpose, as they are more deeply rooted, and therefore more steady and uniform in their appearan- ces, than any plants which are perennial only in their roots. They are especinUy much more so than annuals. " It is certain that such an account taken in one place will not answer alike for every part of the coun- try ; because the vegetation m every part is not equal- ly forward. Therefore, I would earnestly recommend, that in each degree of latitude, throughout New Erg- land at least, some attentive naturalist would make a list of a considerable number of trees and shrubs, which are near at hand ; carefully watch their appearances, and minute the times of the first opening of their kaves, and also of their blossoming. By comparing the ac- counts, the absurdity will immediately appear, of sow- ing the same kinds of seeds at the same time of the month or year, in the 42d, 43d, 44th and 45th degrees of latitude. " When these accounts are obtained, let trials be made by sowing a certain kind of seed before, at, and after the foliation, or the flowering of some particular plant, and the produce compared. Let accurate ex- periments of this kind be yearly repeated, with all the most useful spring plants ; by this, in a few years, com- plete kalendars may be obtained for every degree of latitude in this country. The consequence will be that the farmer will be able to read the true times of sowing by casting his eye upon the trees and shrubs that are about him. We have already such a rule as this with respect to Indian corn ; but it perhaps ought to under- go a further examination. " But such rules, after all that can be done, ought not to govern us invariably. The right times of seed- ing admit of some latitude, on account of the degree of dryness of the soil, and of its exposure to the solar warmth. Land should have the right degree of mois- ture when seeds are sown on it ; and a southern expo- sure will afford an earlier vegetation than a northern." The statements and views of .4 Roxbury Farmer, are ably corroborated by the writer of the next article, who uses the signature " Indicator." This gentle- man remarks that " If each former or gardener will make his own observations within his own grounds, and always upon the same plants, while in health, and under the same degree of cultivation ; and make his notes with care when the state of the blossom is at the same stage of forwardness, there can be no doubt of its correctness. Let him take his own asparagus bed as an index of the warmth of the ground in the early part of May, and he can judge with great correctness, provided the asparagus bed be always forked and dressed on the same day, or nearly, in the month of April, and with the same quantity and quality of manure : for on this plant the warmth of the soil acts immediately on the root alone, and therefore there can be no better guide ibi 22 NEW ENGLAND FARMF.R. ascertain:nc cut the 7tli of that mouth, why not plant those seeds the 7th when the aspara- gus is (it to cut the tit-st of May ? A poach tree, cherry tree, or a |)lum tree in fjood lioalth, is also a fair indication of the tcniporatiirc of t!ie earth, as i-s tlie apple and pear tree, if always kept in a g-oo.l state, or in a cultivated or plouyh- eil piece of cfroand ; but in the orchard, where the grass is allowed t.j check the circulation, three years out of five, trees are not ^o correct an index as the asparagus bed, or as they them- selves arc when growing in a garden or plough- ed field where the ground is always open, so that the rays of the sun and the warmth of the atmosphere enter with less obstruction. '' I have said that the same plant should al- ways be taken as the standing index, because peaches, ("or instance, of different sorts or vari- eties, and ciierries of different sorts, as well as pears and other fruits, open their buds and blossom sooner or later according to the res- pective habits of each individual or variety ; so that a person who should take one yt^ar an early peach, and the next the late heath as U^ index, might find hiniself very far from correct. " With respect to the rains which prevail in the month of .M.i}', by which seeds are rotted in the ground, 1 apprehend that if the ground be warm enough to excite the germ of the seed farli/ in May, it will as soon be out of danger from rot, as if it be planted the middle of May ; for the rains prevail as much toivurds the la S o i gin to swell, \ pow early peas. Wiiiow buds do. do. I.ilic do. do. do. Asparagus fit for t } i, !>ow flax, oat?, Spring $ \ wheat and .Sprii;g rye. [• \ Plant potatoes, early use. J ( riant a potatoe patcli, able, N < also some pumpkins ) ( near your hog stye. Currants put forth leaves, [■ ■{ Plant garden btans .\pple trees blossom, }■ \ Sow carrots, beets, fcc. White oak leaves as big j < m ^ i .• • as a mouse's ear, °\ | Want Indian corn.' We give the above as something like the/or»n which might be adopted for the purpose of enabling the young and inexperienced agricnltor to adopt some gtncrnt rules for seeding his grounds. The substance of the Kalendar must be established by actual observation, and be the result of good sense operating upon experi- ence. An advantage, which perhaps has not been adverted to, may be anticipated from recording annually articles like that of .'2 Rorburi/ Farmer, in which the times of the annual budding and flowering of plants are noted. The practise will aiFord data for ascertaining with con- siderable precision the effects of cultivation as regards climate. Some philosophers tell us that by depriving the earth of its forests, and opening its surface to the more direct uifluence of the sun's rays, the springs come on earlier upon an average, and the mean tem- perature of the climate is increased. Others den}- these positions, and say that the mean temperature of the climate can ni ither be increased nor diminithed by any changes on the earth's surface, as the quantity of ca- loric emanating from the sun will be the same in cor- responding latitudes, whether such surface he compar- atively rough or smooth ; and that when we expose the earth to the more direct impulse of the solar rays, we likewise deprive it of a mantle which covered it in some degree from the frigid influence of those north- ern blasts which so often bid " winter chill the lap of May." (to be coxti.vued.) * This we believe is Hie Indian maxim alluded to by Dr. Deane as above. jSEW LNGLAJNl) KAllMLK. BOSTOJ^:— SATURDAY, AUGUST 17, 1822. The Editor would be happy to make his best ac- knowledgments acceptable to certain conductors of newspapers and others whoso talents and stations give them iulluence, for the favorable notices which they have taken of this establishment. The indications of good will, anil expressions of approbation, with which he has been honored, having beep received from gen- tlemen well qualified to appreciate the value of lite- rary and scientific efforts, cannot fail to add stimulus to industry, and elicit every possible eflbrt to realize the favorable anticipations which appear to be enter- tained by min, the acquisition of whose good opinion is an object of high and laudable ambition. Among tliosc to whom we are under great obliga- tions for announcing our paper in terms well adapted to introduce it to general patronage, we shall hold in grateful vememlirance the Editor of the Mannfnctarer.s'' and Farmers'' Juumnl, a valuable paper, printed at Providence, P.. I. \\'e hope we shall not be accused of egotism in giving the following extract from an edi- torial article wbi<51i appeared in that p;ip<-v of the 12tlv inst. since it relates principally to our oliject, which it co.rnct bo arrojance ia uito pronounce to be laudable. and gives, among other topics, a lucid exposition of Hi- benefits which cultivators may hope to receive fro ;i the JN'tif England Farmer, by making it a channel I.m communicating to the public their own discoveries ami improvemeiils. " There are many good reasons for the cstablisb.- ment, in the northern section of our country, of a paper mainly devoted to the interests of Agriculture. 'J he meist prominent is, the great difierence between th- cliviales of the i!^outhern and Northern States. '11 difference, requiring the cultivation, in one section, .; crops which catmot be cultivated with advantage m others, produces, of n«:cessity, different systems of farm- ing. Kvery enlightened cultivator, wherever he may live, has a system of his own, adapted to the peeuliai situation of his land, as well as to the general charar- ter of till- climate under whieh it lies ; (vhich system i- the result eif experience. A number of such men slij.- ulate, f-.r their mutual benefit, that each shall conmiu- nicate to the whole, the result of his own experienr, , and to make a paper, like the one under consideratioj:, the vehicle of co-mmunication. Now the utility of suclr an agreement depends on the limits which are presciii ed to it, and the fidelity with which it is executed, i is plain, that those only who cultivate the same crtj can be mutually serviceable to each other. 'J he plan- ters of Georgia and Caroliiia, whose crops consist prii- cipally cf cotton, rice and sugar, cannot communica'' much useful i.iformation to the farmers of the norlluri. and middle states, who cultivate grain and keep lari; stocks of animals, in a climate where the season i from two weeks to two months shorter than it is with them — nor can they learn of the latter any thing which may be generally useful in their planting. The differ- ence of sod and climate, even between the northern and middle states, is so considerable, as to require, in the one, a s;,stem of cultivation, widely dilferent fror> that which is practised in the other. In every section of our country, therefore, distinguishable from the oth ers by pt culiarities of climate anel soil, and following a system of husbandry materially different from the .sys- tems in practice elsewhere, there ought to be estab- lished a paper which should be made a common medi- um, through which every experienced farmer may convey to his brethren the result of his own experi- ence. Tliis paper shoidd be supported and maele use- ful, I'y a punctual payment of the subscription money, and by a constant supply of original matter." Since the .above was in type we have been indebted to the khietuess of Mr. Skinner, of Baltimore, not only for the common civility of a proffered exchange of papers, but for a complete file of the ciirrent num- bers of the 4th vol. of that excellent work, the " Amer- ican Farmer," together with an elaborate index of the 3d volume, containing three printed sheets. To these highly valueel favors is added a fricntfly letter, in v.hich is evinced a disposition to " strengthen our hands and encourage our hearts," in the duties of our present cmp'IoJ^nent. Vi'e are happy to be assured ei( a fact, (which hideed we had anticipated from Mi . Skiimer's reputation for liberality and regard for the interests of the community,) that the able fMitor of the American Farmer, a publication, which has, not only given a highly beneficial impulse to Ameiican agricul- ture, but whose establishment may be considereel ;.- tlie commencement of a new and brilliant era in it- annals, is willing to regard us as a coadjutor, wortbv to second his efforts in " extending the knowledge ei all discoveries in the science, and all improvements in the practice of Agriculture and Domestic Economy.' Mr, Skinner's approbation cannot fail to be of essentia aehantagc to us, and we would tender in return our tribute of gratitude, ruid proffer the best services iu our power (.o render to him or his establishment. COOKING FOOD FOR C.'.TTLr. .Imong the most useful improvements of modern hvf- banilry may be numbereel the practice of steaming o boiling food for domestic animals. Some acceiunt i-< the crigio of this practice in Great Britain may 1. c NEW ENGLAND FARMER. Ibund in the ^^ Complete G-ra:iir," an rxcelUnt F.ngp- }ish work of high authority, from which the following •is extiarttil " Steamed food may he jivon to milch cows with great a;ivantajo. I'or this important fact in rural cco- MOjiiy, we are indebted to the ingenions and perse\ er-, iug cxptrinuiits of J- C. Curwcn, Esq. M. 1'. whose at- tention to the comforts of Iiis tenants, and judicious r.eal for the improveinents of ajricullure are too well known to reiuire an)- eulogy, in prosecution of a sys teui wliich he had lon^ practised of givini^ cook(-d lood to animals, Mr. C turned his attemion to the cheapest mode of sujiplyinj milch cows wilh it ; and in a com- munication to the society for the eacoura^eicent of arts, &c. (which •«'hs honored with their lesser gold medal) he states his belief that -he has at Irnglh hcen completely successful. He uses a steam boiler of 100 gallons contents,* on each side of which are fixed iJiree ijoxes, containing 11 stonet each of chull', (tlie husks of wheat, rye, &;c.) which, by being s(c-,imotl gain more than one third of their original weigiil. The steam is fonveyed by various stop cocks into the lower part of the boxes ; and thus two or three boxt s may be steam- ed at the same time ; the quantity of fuel required is about 2 lbs. for each stone of chaff. '• In giving the steamed chaff to the cattle, 2 lbs. of oil cake are mixej with one stone of chaff; and the milch cons are fed with it morning and evening, hav- ing an allowance of one stone at each time. On b( ing taken from the steamer the food is put into wooden "boxes, which are mounted on wheels to be drawn to ■Ihe place where it is intended to be used ; and the <;hail' requires to stand some time before it is fit for use. " The average of milk on a slockof thirty-six milch cows, was nearly 13 wine quarts, for 3'20 days. The cows were never suffered to he turned out'; aad to prevent their being lame, their hoofs were properly Vared, and they stooil with their fore feet on clay. One great advantage attending this method was. tliat most if not all the milch cows were in such a condition that, with a few weeks feeding after they were dry, they became fit for the shambles, wilh very little loss irom the first cost. As a substitute for chaff and oil cake, Mr. C. recommends cut hay ; which, v.-hon -teamed, would make a much supenor fond, and he ■ntertains no doubt would greatly augment the miik, 4S well as benefit the health of the animals. Mr. Cur- iven gives cooked food from October to June, nearly ■ight months out of twelve, and his plan of treatment las been adopted by several farmers in different parts >f the kingdom wiili great success." The practice of cooking food for cattle is by no neans a novelty in New England. A simple apparatus or that purpose has been for some time in use among armers of our acquaintance. The following is a brief lesciiption of it. A kettle, holding twelve gallons or note, is sell in a furnace of brick or stone, and over his a hogshead with one head taken out and the other ■ored full of holes. This is set so close that the steam f the kettle, when boiling, can only rise througii the .oles, and thence ascend among tlie articles to he boil- d in the hogshead and pass off at the top. lu this •ay a hogshead of potatoes will be nearly as soon boil- d as a s.-nall part of them could be if placed in the ettle underneath. As the kettle is so closed as to prevent any steam om passing off, but through the bottom of the hogs- ead, a pipe or tube is set in such a manner that with le aid of a funnel water may be poured into the kettle often as is necessary. After poured in, the tube is opped with a plug for that purpose. 4: •.4n engraring of if is given in the SOtk volume or e Societi/^s Ti-ansactions. 1 14 Ills, a stone. X The. "Complete Grazier" contains a drawing ttv4 , script, on of this simple apparatus, which it calls ,. ot-^tcamer ; ojirf observes that if i-as introduced inli' "gland from America. It states that Ike top of Ih' sk, vhich in America '■'■is usually left open, mr'h: oreadmntageousli/ be covered wilh a thick coarse cloth ■ ( whuh )s much bitter, after Ihe vess-l is filled vilh I!'' uhed roots, it is closeli/.clai/ed all round, and the head Grain of all kinds may be steam boiled by this ap- paratus, to great advantage, for feeding or fatteuir.g cattle ; Irut in that case, it is requisite to have the bot- tom of the hogshead covered with a cloth, to prevent th" grain from running down throiigli the holes. llxperiments have been made in Pennsylvania, by which it appears that Indian corn and potatoes will fatten swine one third faster when boiled or steamed then when given to them without any preparation. An .\ddress delivered to the Maryland Agricultural Society, liy their President, Mr. Robert Smith, and pub- lished in the American Farmer, No. 11, Vol. 4, contains the following observations on this subject : " Economy in the feeding of stock is an object of (he highest importance, interesting alike to the public and to the indi\'idual. The great waste of hay, straw, corn fodder, chatf and other offal, apparent on every estate, undtU" the prevailing practice of our country, has suggested to me the expediency of having at my dairy farm a steaming apparatus. Tliis 1 have recent- ly establiihed on a plan so simple and so cheap, that any person in any part of our country may have a simi- lar one, greater or smaller, according to the extent of his farm and the proposed number cif his stock. It consists of an iron boiler and two wooden boxes. The boiler contains 100 gallons. One of the boxes is ei"-ht f-et, the other five feet long ; both three feet wide and three feet dc>ep. The boiler is globular, and was made by screwing together the biims of two salt pans. The re is also attached to it a hogshead for any extra cooking. " Tlie boiler is fixed in brick work, calculated to afford the greatest degi'ec of heat, with the smallest wtiste of fuel. -Without pretending to give directions as to the particular construction of such a furnace, 1 would merely remark, what the physiologists have told us, namely, that heat being produced by the combined operation of the fuel and of the air feeding the fire, that portion only of the air, which passes in contact with the btirning fuel, contributes to the production of lieat, and that, therefore if the fire place should be larger than the he.ap of burning fuel, a certain portion of air wiil insinuate itself without ioing through the fire, and of course, not being decomposed will contribute noth- ing to the heat. "To (he water in the boiler is given all the heat necessary to generate the required steam. The steam is conveyed into the boxes by copper pipes attached to the upper part of the boiler, "and is introduced between the bottom of each box, and a false bottom, consisting of several sheets of copper perfor.ited with holes. Into this chamber, fom- inches high, formed by (he two bo{- toms, the -steam is conveyed, and passing (hrough (b.e holes of (he false bottom, diffuses itself throughout the whole contents of the box, and (bus effectually cooks the great mass of food (herein contained. AVhen suffi- ciently boiled, the steam, by means of a common stop cock, is turned into the other box. At one end of each box, and near the bottom, is a spigot and faucet, by means of which are drawn off the condensed steam and i'quid matter, vrliich had oozed out of. and been ex- tracted from the cooked matciials. This decoction is of a deep chocolate color and highly flavored. It may be given to (he calves, or it may be returned to and mixed with tlie steamed food. It, however, may not be amiss to remark, that when a liquid feed is propos- ed the false bottom is not used. " In the corner of the steam house next to the pumn there is a hogshead of water in which is inserted a leaden tube, the other end of wbicli is immersed in the water of (he boiler and nearly (o (he bottom of if. The admission of the requisite supply of water from this reservoir into the boiler is regulated by a stop cock. And the cold water being specifically heavier than the warm, will necessarily take its place at the bottom, whilst the hot water v.ill remain at tlie top. This simple plan is preferred to the self-supplying valve, which is apt to get out of order. At the top of the toiler there is a safety valve for the escape of all re- dundant steam, the electric force of v/hich would oth- "rwise endanger the wSole establishment.'" (Tb be C07ilinued.') LATEST FROM EUROPE. 'i he ship Triton, C'apl. Busscy, arrived r,t this port on the ]2lh inst. in 30 ilays from Liverpool, and brc't London papers to the 9th and Liverpool paper; to tUe 11th ult. Turkey and Russia have of late made no menacing movements, nor assumed new attitudes either of a hos- tile or pacific nature. The Turks, however, accordiri' to the last advices, continued to exercise the most a(rf- cious crueltii-s on the miserable Greeks — stretching' (heir ferocity to the utmost limits of their power. In the mean time the great Potentates of Europe appear to be gazing quietly on (hose scenes of suffering, and scarcely exhibit a symjiiom of sympathy for the suffer- ers ; thus giving fresh proof of the correctness of the assertion of the moral poet, who says, " there is no flesh in man's obdurate heart." " Pity 'tis" that they have no pity, and well would it be, if changing places with the sufferers, (hose heartless monarchs could " bi- what they behold," till the actual endurance of calam- ity should teach them to put a stop to its infliction. Spain continues in a state of confusion, and " civil dudgeon" adds dome stic calamity to foreign menaces. The king prorogued the Cortes on the 30;h June, en which occasion he made a clever and gracious speech, according with the spirit of the constitution. This, however, did not prevent tunuiUs from talcing place in ^Madrid. Some shouted i\bich shall be adjudged, by a competent Com v^ mittee, to have performed the best nnrk, Tvith '^ the Icust expense of labor ^ not exceeding half an acre to each plough, and of such depth as the- Committee shall direct. First Plough $20 Second Plough $12 Third Plough $:; 5 Ploughman 10 Ploughman 6 Ploughman ^A 3 Driver 5 Driver 3 Driver 2 In each case, if there be no Driver, both sums to be awarded to the Ploughman. The persons intending to contend for these Prizes, must give notice, in writing, to S. W. Po!.iERov, or GoKiUM Parsons, Esq'rs. of Bri"-h- lon, on or before the 2d da}' of October, so that proper arrangements may he made for the pur- pose. No person, w ill, on any consideration, be admitted without such notice. The compe- titors will also be considered as agreeing to fol- low such rules and regulations as may be adopt- ed by the Committee, on the subject. The ploughs to be ready to start at 9 o'clock, a. m. The result of the last Ploughing Matches at Brighton, and the satisfaction expressed by so Cotton, must be of the growth and nianuficture of the State of Massachusetts. And all Manu- factures, when presented, must have a private mark, and any public or known mark must be completely concealed, so as not to be seen, or known by the Committee, nor must the Propri- etors be present when they are examined ; in default of either of these requisitions, the arti- cles will not lie deemed entitled to considera- tion or premium. .■\nimnls. Manufactures, or Articles, may be offered for ])reniium at Brighton, notwithstand- ing they may have received a premium from n County ,\g-ricnltural Society. It is understood, that whenever, merely from a want of competition, any ol' the claimants may be considered entitled to the jueniium, imder a literal construction, yet if, in the opinion of the Judges, the object so offered is not deserving of any reward, the .Judges shall have a right to reject such claim*. Persons to whom juTmi- ums shall be awarded, may, at their option, have an article of Plate, with suitable inscrip- tions, in lieu of money. Premiums will be paid within ten days after they shall be awarded. That in any case in which a pecuniary pre- mium is offered, the Trustees may, having re- gard to the circumstances of the competitor, award either one of the Society's gold or silver medals in lieu of the pecuniary premium an- nexed to the several articles. That if anv competitor for any of the Society's jiremiums sjiall be discovered to liave used any many of their agricultural brethren, will induce All the above Manufactures, except when of | "'e ^'wiet.v to continue these premiums annu- llv, in connexion with the Cattle Show, as an efficacious means for exciting emulation and improvement in the use and construction of the most important instrument of agriculture. Persons intending to offer any species of Stock for premiums, are requested to give notice thereof, either by letter (post paid) stating the article, or to make personal application to Mr. .ToNATHAN Wixsmp, at Brighton, on or before the 8th day of October, and requesting him to enter such notice or application ; so that tickets may he ready at 9 o'clock, on the 9tl# No person will he considered as a competitor, who shall not have given such notice, or made such ap- plication for entry, on or before the lime above specified. All articles of manufactures must be entered and deposited in the Society's Rooms, on Mon- day, the 7th of October, and will be examined bv the Committee on Tuesday, the 8th, the day before the Cattle Show ; and no person but the Trustees shall be admitted to examine them before the Show. The articles so exhibited, must be left till after the Show, for the satisfac- tion of the public. The applicants will be held to a rigid com- l>liance with this rule relative to entries, as well as to the other rules prescribed. The examination of every species of stock, (except working oxen) will take place on the 9lh ; and the trial of Working Oxen, examina- tion of Inventions, and Ploughing Match, ou lli£ lOlh of October. NEW ExNGLAND FARiMKR. The Trii.-^tees also propose lo appropriate, on the second day of the Cattle Sho.v, their Pens for tlu! public sale of any Animals, that have been ollered for prcminm, and also ot any oth- ers, that are considered hy them, as possessing line qualities ; and their Ylalls for the public sale of ManiUactures. Both sales to take place at half past eleven o'clock, precisely. And for all Animals or Manufactures, that are intended to be sold, notice must be given to the -Secre- tary, before 10 o'clock of the 10th. Auction- eers will be provided by the Trustees. By order of the Trustees, J. LOWELL, J. PRINCE, G. PARSONS, E. H. DERBY, January, 1822. Committee. From tlie Boston Daily Advertiser. COXSTRUCTIO.Y OF STABLES. Most of the horses brought into this town from the country, become soon diseased, gene- rallv in the course of the first week, and fre- Hueutly in 24 or 43 hours after they are phced in our stables. It has been frequently ftsked what can be the cause of this sudden alteration in the health of the animal, and it has almost as frequently been answered, a change of air and of food. There is no doubt a change of food has some inlluencc, but the effect is principal- ly attributable to a change of air. It is not however the kind of change, that is generally supposed. It is not the bringing horses from a fresh atmosphere to a salt one, that pro- duces the disease I allude to. It is the brmg- ing them from a pure atmosphere, and confin- ing them in crowded stables, where the air be- ing vitiated bj' respiration, and the effluvia from nnimal bodies, a malignant quality, which being inhaled by horses imacustomed to it, soon de- ranges the system and generates disease ; and So long as our stables are constructed, as they now are, so long will our country horses be sick , when brought into them. We have ali of us heard of jail fever, hospital fever, plague and typhus; and much has been said about the domestic origin of yellow fever, but what jail, hospital or prison ship; or what situation in our streets, or about our wharves, can be found, where the air is so vitiated as in a common stable ? Imagine for instance 30 or 40 horses confined inii space 50 by 30 feet, and 9 feet high, (the scafl'old is generally about 9 feet from the ground) surrounded by a brick wall, without windows, and no ventilators through the roof; and no outlet for the hot air, except at the doors, and those closed at night ; and then consider the fact as stated by Dr. Hales, that a man cannot live in 74 cubical inches of air, one minute, without danger of sutiocation. It is ob- vious, that a horse so situated, must breathe the same air over and over again and not only the air which has repeatedly passed through his lungs, but that which has been breathed many times by other horses, and is filled with exhal- ' ations, arising from animal secretions and excre- tions ; and perhaps too, the planks and timbers of the very stall he stands in, may have been saturated, for years, with excrementious matter, which can emit only noxious effluvia, or what is called animal miasms. It has been stated by a writer of some emin- ence, that three thousand men contined in the compass of one acre of ground, ivould make an atmosphere of their own steams, seventy feet hi;;h, which would soon become pestilential, if it were not dispersed by the winds. After considering these facts, who can doubt what generates disease in horses brought into our stables from the country? The only doubt that naturally suggests itself is, how our horses get along so well as they do. After gettinc: over their first sickness, or seasoning, as it is called, (which requires more or less time, according to the constitution of the horse, and the stable in which he is placed) they go on tolerably well. Their constitutions become assimilated to their situation, as to the air which they breathe, and its effects are not so injurious ; in the same man- ner as a man, may become so accustomed trom habit, to the use of tobacco, opium, and arsenic, that they will not make him sick, jet none will say. that these are not injurious to the human constitution ; and I believe few will say, when the subject is properly understood, that the air in our stables is not equally so to the animal. In making these remarks, I have but one mn- tivej which is to draw the attention of the pub- lic to this subject, in hopes that an alteration in the construction of our stables may be the con- sequence. We have many excellent buildings in this towui occupied as stables, and with a few alterations, they might be made very healthy and comfortable dwellings, for horses. In constructing a stable, the first object ought to be a propfcr system of ventilation. This may be effected in the following way. Let a hole 3 by 4 inches he knocked through the brick wall, immediately above the head of each horse, and another of the same dimensions op- posite to it, and parallel with the floor of the stall. This will occassion a perfect and con- stant ventilation. As it is the property of hot air to ascend, every time the horse makes an expiration, the air expelled from his lungs, be- ing more rare than the surrounding atmosphere, wdl go out at the upper hole, and a correspond- ing quantity of pure air will come in at the low- er hole. No danger is to be apprehended from cold air coming in at the upper hole, upon the head of the horse, as the current will constantly be turned upwards. The rarified and unwhole- some air will escape at the upper hole, and the wholesome air will come in at the lower. As some stables may be so situated, as to render this method of ventilation impracticable, 1 would recommend, where this is the case, that one, two, three or four openings be made through the roof The number ougiit to be in proportion to the length and size of the stable. This may be done in the following wa}'. Let a hole be cut through the scalVold about 3 feet square, and another directly over it, through the root', about 2 feet square, and let a box be inserted, open at each end, of a shape and size, to correspond- to these two openings, and sulTi- ciently long to extend from the under side of the scatTold, through Hie roof. Then let holes be cut through the doors, or through some con- venient parts of the stable, on a jjarallel with the fioor, of equal number and dimensions, as those through the roof. By this method a re- gular and systematic ventilation will be pro- duced. If any one doubts the justness of these remarks, and believes that our present method of stabling a good one, and that horses ought to be kept in a hot air. and covered up with wool- en blankets, let him trj' the experiment upon himself; let him sleep in a heated room, with ten or fifteen others, covered up with clothes, sweat it out for the night, and try the condition he will be in for any kind of employment ' whatever. I cannot refrain here from making one or two remarks upon the very common, but very absurd practice of blanketing horses in the sta- ble, thougli this is a sul>ject which more pro- perly belong; to the maiuigcment of horses than the construction of stables. It must be obvious to every one, who reflects at all upon this subject, that if a horse requires one blanket in a warm stable, he ought to have two when he goes out in a cold storm. Instead of this, when the horse is taken from the stall, his blanket is throw i off, and he is exposed per- haps for the day to the inclemency of the wea- ther, and frequently withotrt much exercise to counteract the ellects of cold. Even the con- stitution of a horse cannot withstand this treat- ment. He soon becomes infirm, decrepit, and broken down. His usefulness is diminished and his life shortened by this kind of iiwiiagement. From the Rhode Island .\mcrican. FARMERS— ATTEjyn. James !-isson, Esq. who lives at Warren Neck, about three miles from the village of Warren, is well known to the publick as an en- terprising Agriculturali^. He is always seek- ing improvements in what is most useful to his fellow-citizens, viz. Orchards, the introduction of new kinds of Grain, the best mode of culti- vating his farm, &c. He imported from Bre- inen,"in November, 1820, two pairs of the larg- est kind of Geese, supposed lo be the largest in the world, weighing when fatted, 20 pounds, and, it is confidently asserted, some weigh 30 pounds- At first he' was rather discouraged, as they would not cat Indian corn, an-d the spring following they sat early and both Geese reared but one to maturity. That one, however, this spring, brought off two litters, and the two old pairs each brought up a litter ; he now has 17 young and 5 old ones., all perfectly white and liealthy, and of full size. They feed and set as well as any of our common Geese ; the young cenie off healthy and strong, and yield about double the quantity of t'eathers. I was at his farm, a few days since, and was highly gratified in viewing on the lawn directly in front of the house, two beautiful flocks of snowy whiteness (he has the common geese, feeding near them, and they resemble ducks in point of size) and 1 have no hesitation in recommending to the farmers of New-England that they introduce this valuable breed of poultry into their barn yards. Mr. Sisson will dispose of a few pairs, if applied for soon, and the opportunity ought not to be neglected. A Fiiend to Agriculture. A'ea) Covering for Floors. — A new material has been introduced and is becoming fashiona- ble in Philadelphia as a covering for floors. It is made of paper, is said to be very handsome, as it may be fashioned in a great variety of patterns, is quite durable, and is only one quar- ter as expensive as Carpets or Oil Cloth. 28 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. Facts and observations rei.atlng to AGRICULTURE & DOMESTIC ECONOMY. \V0UKI.\O BULLS. "The bull ii naturally vicious, anil often be- cotnes so mischievous as to cndatigci many val- uable lives ; an evil which wc conceive mi^ht be remedied by training him to labor. For, being tlie only, beast of his size which is in- dulged in idleness, and as he possesses e(|iial strength with the ox, we doulH not, but ii he were properlj' worked, and allowed to indulge his desires during the breeding season, he woidd, by being inured to labor and attended by man- kind become gradually tame, and harmless, as the horse, or any other naturally vicious ani- mal. Several experiments, indeed, have been made for this purpose ; and from their success- ful result, we think the practice of working bulls maybe advantageously adopted; especi- ally as these animals are not only broken in with little difiiculty, and work well, but also because they recover from fatigue much sooner than an ox." — Complete Grazier. REMEDY against ANTS AND SPIDERS. Mr. Clutterbuck, Jr. of Watford, washed the walls of his hot-house with a painter's brush, dipped in a solution made of four ounces of cor- rosive sublimate, in two gallons of water : and since that a|>piication, neither the red spider, against which this remedy was employed, nor auts have made their appearance. Domestic Encyclopedia. CRICKETS. An easy method of destroying crickets is to place phials half full of beer, or anv other li- quid near their holes, whence they will crawl into them and cannot escape. Cats are ver\' fond of crickets ; but the great quantities they consume often occasion their death. Hence it is more advisable to destroy these insects, either by pouring hot water into the holes through which they retreat, or exposing boiled peas or carrots, mashed up with quick-silver, in places which they frequent. Another mode of exter- minating them, consists in placing pea straw near their habitations, and then immersing them in water, together with this straw, to which they are peculiarly attached. — ibid. REMEDY AGAINST VERMIN WHICH INFEST SWINE. Mr. .loscph W. Ballard, of Mount Pleasant, Isle of Wight County, Virginia, directs, in cases where hogs are infested with vermin, to lake " a little tar, and grease of any kind sufficient to make the tar quite thin, then pour it over the hogs, when fed, sufficiently so as to have them quite smeared with the tar; this may be repeated often in the summer and fall, as Icon- ce^e it to be an excellent thing for the health of the hogs — Or in good weather you may give to each hog a small table spoonful of sulphur in the.r food, or in damp weather have them well sprinkled with strong wood ashes ; either of these remedies will prevent or destroy the vermin." — American Farmer. SrENT TAN OR TANNEr's WASTE. This substance is, we believe, valuable for agricultural purposes, and have therefore been sorry to see a great (Jeal of it accumulating in useless piles al)out tanner's yards, and sciittcred about highways and commons. It is probable, however, that if it is employed as a manure in a crude state, it may not prove immediately useful. It would be likely to retain something of the gallic acid, which is we believe unfriendly to vegetation. This acid, however, may easily be neutralized by mixing with the hark a quantity of quick lime. The Complete Grazier informs us that " Oak bark, or, (more correctly speaking,) tanner's ivaste, may be accumulated into small heaps, and mixed with lime and a sufficient degree o! water to keep it moist, and promote its decom- position and putrefaction. It is an excellent manure for cold stifl' soils, whether arable or grass lands ; but for the latter it should be made to approach the nature of vegetable mould as much as po.ssible. The best time of spreading it on grass lands is shortly after Michaelmas, (beginning of October) that the winter rains may wash it into the ground ; as, if it be ai>pli- ed in the spring it will burn the grass, and ex- haust rather than improve the soil fur that season." It has been said that if boxes are made round peach trees about one foot in height, to hold about a peck, and these tilled with the bark taken from tan vats, pressed a little together, the trees will remain free from worms about their roots, which often prove fatal to them. .Spent tan, likewise, we have been told, will preserve fruit trees from the curculio, (a small worm which is found in jierhaps one half the apples and pears raised in New England.) We apprehend, however, that if this substance is intended as a preservative against insects, it should be applied in a fresh state, and without being mixed with lime, as it is probably the acid which proves destructive to insects, and the acid would be destroyed by quick lime. — Another use of spent tan spread about the roots of fruit trees is to prevent a too early vegeta- tion in the spring, and thus the buds and blos- soms escape early frosts. WEIGHT OF SWINE. The Complete Grazier gives the following rules to guard the unsuspecting purchaser a- gainst imposition in buying swine : — " When swine are fat, it appears from actual experi- ments that every twenty pounds of live weight will, when killed, produce from twelve to four- teen pounds clear weight. Where the hogs do not exceed twelve stone of fourteen pounds to the stone, the weight will be twelve pounds ; if they be of a larger size, it will be upon an ave- rage about fourteen pounds ; so that if a larmer or breeder weigh his beasts while alive, he will be enabled to ascertain the net profitable weight when dead; and likewise by weighing the hogs every week to fix the best time for disposing ol' them to advantage ; because, as soon as an ani- mal ceases to acquire that daily increase, which makes it beneficial to keep him, the best step that can be followed is to sell or slaughter him without delay." MANGEL Wl'RTZEL. A writer in the Farmer's Journal, an English periodical publication of much merit, in treating of the culture of Mangel Wurtzel, observes that '' Having noticed the issue of an innumerable quantity of small lateral fibres from the sides of this plant during its vegetation ; considering them conductors of nutriment, and that putres- cent vegetable or other matter was the be-i pabulum, a compost of dung and soil (preparcii in autumn^ was ploughed in with tiie whe;i stubble ; the succeeding ploughings. harrowinv-. i;c. well mixed it with the soil. This was the largest crop 1 ever cultivated or have seen ; which I attribute, in a srreat measure, to the intimately mixing the manure with the soil." " This remark," says the editor of that jniper, " is doubly important, as it shews that autumn ploughing, and broadcast dunging (performed in autumn) are best for mangel wurtzel." SCRAPINGS OF ROADS, AND MCD FRO.M SWAMPS, &.C. .Some little knowledge of chemistry seems in- dispensable for the proper management of ma- nures. A writer in the Farmers" Journal states in substance that turnips manured with scrap- ings from the city road, consisting chiellv of ballast ground to powder, enriched with the droppings of cattle, grew very vigorously until the bulbs should have swelled, when they all turned yellow and died, notwithstandinar they were, from time to time, well watered. The same writer says, •• The experiments of Mr. Malcolm prove that scrapings from gra\ el roads may be generally suspected of containing quali- ties injiirious* to vegetation, although the drop- pings of cattle, &ic. mixed therewith, give a temporary vigor to the plant. On the other hand, scrapings from chalky roads, or any calca- reous stone may be very useful on suitable soils." We have likewise know n swamp-mud, appar- ently rich, hut mixed with sulphate of iron (copperas) (as was manifested by that kind of scum on the water drained from the swamp which denotes the presence of that metal) dis- appoint the expectations of farmers, who used it for manure. This may be easily accounted for. " Vitriolic impregnations," according to Sir Humphrey Davy, '"in soils where there is no calcareous matter, are injurious, jirobablv m cons;_'quence of their supplying an excess of ferruginous matter to the sap. Oxide of iron i in small quantities forms a useful part of soil', and probably is hurtful only in acid combina- tions." The remedy, in such cases, is simple, and is thus pointed out by Sir Humphrey Dav\ . " If on washing sterile soil it is found to contain the salts of iron, or any acid matter, it mav be ameliorated by the application of quick lime. A soil of good apparent texture from Lincoln- shire, was put into my hands b« Sir Joseph Banks, as remarkable lor sterililvT on examin- ing it, I t'ound that it contained sulphate of iron ; and 1 offered the obvious remedy of top dres- sing with lime, which converts the sulphate into a manure. "t The sulphuric acid ol the sulphate of iron, combines with the lime and forms sulphate of lime, which is Gypsum, or Piaster of Paris. GOOD HINTS. The following, extracted from an .\ddress by .Mr. James Garnett, President of the Fredericks- I'urgli Agricultural Society, delivered belore that Society at an anniversary meeting, may be found well worth the attention of those whom it mav concern. '• I here beg leave to offer, (although I know that 1 shall receive no thanks for it) a stigges- * Probably sulphatf of iron (copperas) or some other combination '>i'acifi« willi metals. t Ag;ricultural Chemistry, p. 141, Philadelphia ed. NEW ENCLAND FARMER. 29 tio;i to nil makers oi" pati^nrcJ asricultural iiii- I'lrments. This is to calculate well before they t\\ their ])nces, whether they could not make t;rvitoi' profits by selhnsj at lower rates. 1 kiunv a maker of cast-iron ploug'hs, tor instance, who, allhoMcrh he has considerably reduced his p; ; es, still receives at least twenty cents per pi vi.ul tor th'm, as I have ascertained by actual w :?hiii£;', when common castings, the monopo- ly of which is not secured by patent, sell from ^\\ to ei^ht cents! This dilTerence, I think, / IV well be called an exorbitant exaction ; and my certain knowledge it has prevented mam ii: i-s from using, notwithstanding they highly liove lb' ra. Now, although I ivould be one uie last men in the world to withhold liberal I I luiragement from new inventions, yet I must . tliat some ot the authors of them appear to I iuire other restraints than those which their iiwii consciences and our patent law afford. — Tiiat any very useful discovery should enrich the man who makes it, 1 think all quite fair ; liin his riches should result rather from the ex- ili^ive right of selling his invention, . and the I'i iihicts thereof, than from his extravagant jHolils on the articles which he vends beyond what they would command if he bad no mouo- pnly."* Extracts from an Address delivered before the Pliiladelphia Society for promoting Agriculture, at its annual meeting on the loth Jan. 1822. '• It was stated two years ago by one of the Vice-Presidents of this Society, that the average cri-p of wheat in Lancaster count3> which is considered the richest in the state, did not pro- bably exeecd fifteen bushels per acre. Now llie average of all France is more than eighteen bushels — the average of all England twenty-four — and in some counties, as in Middlesex and the Luthians, forty. With regard to rents, it is not t asy to speak with accuracy. If we except the alluvial meadows near this city, which rent for nine or ton dollars per acre, 1 should not esti- mate the avenige rent of cleared land with im- provements within the district just mentioned, at more than two or three dollars. In Italy, in England, and in Scotland, lands not particularly favored by vicinity to markets, lent for from Sixteen to twenty dollars, and in the neighbor- hood of large cities, from thirty to forty dollars. The causes of this inferioritj' may be discov- ered in two characteristics of our farming — a disjiroportionale capital, and an inefficient cul- tivation. The first is a striking deficiency. Agriculture, though a very common, ii not, I think, a favorite pursuit in Pennsylvania. It attracts few from the other classes, and its ranks are rather thinned by desertion than recruited by volunteers. The enterprising shun it for its iiiictivily ; the gay from its loneliness; the pru- '■ !!t from its unproductiveness; so that altho" J I eat proportion of the wealth of the state is •I in land, an exceedingly small capital is '>ted to farming. We too often exhaust our ■ ns in clearing or purchasing a farm, leaving ;ctly any resources for stocking and culli- \aiing it. Now an English farmer, with a cer- tain capital, rents a farm, as a manufacturer rents a house, and devotes his capital to extract .Irom it the greatest possible produce. Accord- ingly his proceedings seem almost incredioie to the possessors of large American farms. It has * "ree Americau Faruicr. May 3, 1822.- becoiTi!^ a settled maxim of English husbandry, that before occupying good arable land, a capi- tal of from thirty to forty dollars per acre is necessary. On an estate of three hundred acres, therefore, a farmer begins by exp"nding in ]ire- parations nine thousand dollars ; and his annual disbursements in labor, manure and other arti- cles, are about five thousand dollars a }'car. His operations are all on a proportionate scale. To contract to pay a rent of liventy or thirty thousand dollars ; to expend in a single year on lime alone, eleven thousand dollars; to pa^- two thousand dollars a year for rape cake to manure lurni|)s ; to make a compost heap costing four thousand dollars ; sucii are the combinations of wealth and skill to produce good husbandry. These we cannot, and we need not imitate. But they may teach ns that we should measure our enterjirises by our means ; and that an ill managed farm can tio more be profitable than an empty factor)'. Men praise the bounty of nature. It is much safer to rely on her Justice, which rarely fails to reward our care and avenge our neglect. Our farms, then, though small, are generally too large for our capitals ; that is we work badly too much ground, instead of culti- vating well a little. It is wonderlul, indeed, bow profusely a small spot of ground will re- ward good husbandrj-. There are in Itai}' hun- dreds and thousands of people, living on t'arms of I'roni four to ten acres, and paying to the owner one third or one half the produce. The whole straw for the Leghorn bonnets, by the exportation of which in a single year five hun- dred thousand dollars were gained, would grow on two acres. There are in Switzerland some hill sides, formed into terraces, which have sold for two thousand dollars an acre ; and in fortu- nate spots for gardening, as near London, a sin- gle acre will yield a clear profit of from eight to nine hundred dollars a year. These exam- ples may perhaps explain, hcrw without the great capitals of England, and without diminish- ing our tarras, we may gradually render them richer and more productive by judicious cul- ture."' BARN Y.\RDS AKD STERC0R.4R1ES OR MANURE HEAPS. The following humorous exposition of the faults of some farmers, as respects the economy of their barn yards and stercoraries, is extracted lYom an Address to the Ma.ssachusetts Agricultu- ral Society, by the Hon. Josiah Quincy. " As we proceed to the farm we will stop one moment at the barn yard. We shall say nothing about the arrahgements of the barn. They must include comfort, convenience, pro- tection, for his stock, his haj', and his fodder, or they are little or nothing. ' We go thither tor the purpose only of looking at what the learned call the stercorary, but which farmers know by the name of the manure heap. What is its state ? How is it located ? Sometimes we see the barn yard on the top of a hill, with two or three fine rocks in the centre ; so that what- ever is carried or left there, is sure of being chicHy exhaled by the sun, or washed away by the rain. Sometimes it is to be seen in the hollow of some valley, into which all the hills and neiochboring buildings precipitate their wa- ters. Of consequence ali its contents are drown- ed or water soaked, or what is worse, there having been no care about the bottom of the lecoptacie, its wealth goes off in the under strata, to enrich possibly the antipodes. " Now all this is to the last degree wastet'ul, absurne of the same size (six to the pound) with cotton wick, lasted but 5 hour*. Agreeably to this experiment, a pound of candles will last forly- fwo hours, when they would only last thirty made the usual way. SAIL CLOTH.— Wc are ploa'od to bo able to announce the successful establishment of a manufactory of Sail Cloth, on a new and improv- ed principle at Stoncham, near this city, by a Mr. JoiiNsox. Bolts of Jifl'erent numbers" of Mr. J's manufacture have been sent tor inspection to the Charlestown Navy Yard, whose fabric has been declared by competent judges, to be decidedly superior^ in beauty and streni^th, to any article of this kind ever exhibited in the U. States. — Boston Statesman. WOOL. — A correspondent informs us, that from January 1st to June 30th, of the present year, there has been imported into this district Irom foreign ports, one hundred and niartij seven thousand nine, hundred and four pounds of Wool. A very sound reason for our farmers to grow more of that useful article, as it will coinmand readily the money, from thirty-two to sixty cents per pound. — ib. The Long Island Farmer states, that eleven pounds of well washed fine white wool was sheared, a few days since, t'rom a merino buck belonging to Mr. James Scott. — jV. Y. Gazette. Canada Thistle. — Mr. Butler states from his own experience, for the information of farmers and agriculturists, that if the Canadian thistle is cut down in this month it will decay, for these reasons : the seed will be rendered abortive, and the stock, which is hollow, will fill with water and destroy the plant. Ulster Pkheiun. Easy cure for the Ague. — When the fit is on, take a new laid egg in a glass of brandy, and go to bed immediately. This very simple re- ceipt has cured a great many, after more cele- brated i)reparatioiis have proved unsuccessful. Jlrsenic. — A man, says an English paper, was poisoned in a very singular maimer. His physi- cian prescribed for him a dose of arsenic and sent it to a druggist to be yiut u|). The drug- gist ha\ ing adju'^ted his scales with the proper weights, turned to get the arsenic ; while in the act of getting it, a worm or catterpillar crawled up the scales in which the weights wore, and in this situation added its own weight, which occa- sioned the dose to be too large, and thus des- troyed the patient. Dense Population. — .Vt Pawtucket, near Prov- idence, on an area of from eighty to ninety acres of land, there are three hundred and sev f.niij seven families, and tzco thousand three hun dred and ninety Jhrce individuals. NEW ENGLAND FARMER. liOSTOX.—SATVlUJJlY, AUGUST 24, 1822. A friend to our establislimt-nt, and a member of the Massachusetts .4?riciiltMial .Society, liaving- suggested to us thp propriety auil probable utility of republishing till- Notice of the Cattle Show, List of Premiums, &c. with which this number commences, we have given it a place to the exclusion of some others articles intend- f li/{f l- valrc, which is apt to get out of order.'''' Sec our lu.- A~o. p. 23, 'id col. NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 31 loss of liiat iVoin cold air coming in contact with its iuternal surl'acc. When a boiler of this kind is constructed on a large scale, the Count mentions that the seven descending lubes may be made of cast iron, and the rest of the boiler sheet iron, or copper; and thinks that when of this construction, it will cost less than one of equal surface of the usual form. A Mr. Lloyd obtained a patent in England for a boiler, which is described in substance as follows : Tlie bottom of Mr. Lloyd's boiler is introverted, so as to form a cavity which would nearly hold as much as the boiler itself, if it were reversed ; the sides of this cavity are somewhat conical, and from the top a pipe passes out at one side through the cavity of the boiler to the air ; the whole boiler or kettle is surrounded by an external case, a Tittle distant from it all round, clos- ed at top, and having a small opening at the side to give vent to the smoke. The small pipe adds some- what to the effect, but is not absolutely necessary. For large boilers the cavity at the bottom need not be 90 large in proportion as that described. If it rises into the boiler a third of its depth, it will probably be sufficient. The flame and radiant heat of the fuel is reverberated in all directions in the cavity of the hol- low bottom, and must (says the inventor) have much more effect than what can be produced by its uncon- fmed lateral action against the external sides of a num- ber of upright tubes, however well arranged. A patent for " a new method of applying fu'e for the purpose of heating boilers,'" Szc. obtained in England by Mr. Thomas Rowntree, has the following descrip- tion : " For heating of coppers, boilers, furnaces, ovens, and stoves, my fire place is much smaller tlian hereto- fore made use of for the same sized copper, boiler, fur- nace, oven or stove. Instead of placijig my fire-place, according to the common practice, immediately under the boiler, or other vessel, I place it at the front side Dr end, as I see most convenient, in such a manner as lo oblige the flame to rise in the front-side or end, and pass all round the vessel, &c. while at the same time It strikes the bottojn of the vessel, &c. without suffer- ing the flame to pass off in a flue, or flues, .as it usually loes in the common way, and by that means sending -he heat into the flues, instead of its being used where t ought to be, namely, on the vessels, Sic. ; this my Tiethod effectually prevents; for. by means of a small jcrpendicular, or other opening into a box or trap, which I call a reservoir, and which I place horizontally ^|)r diagonally, as the situation may require, and is inade of iron, brick, stone, or any otiier material capa- jle of bearing heat, where a valve is placed, riding on centres or otherwise, and standing in a diagonal or oth- .^ T direciion, as is found most convenient, the flame is returned or impeded in its progress to the chimney, and nade to descend below the bottom of the vessel, and )ass out at the bottom, top, or side of said box, trap or escrvoir, into the common chimney. This reservoir is " )!aced between the vessel, &c. and the chimney. To he opening which admits the flame into the reservoir, .re affixed, when necessary, sliders, registers or stops, rhich serve to increase or diminish the heat. The 'alvc in the reservoir is for the same purpose in anoth- I r degree, wliich more immediately appertains to in- Ireasing or diminishing the draught, which it does by lioving the said valve into different positions, as the ^ Ipeed of the operation may require.'"* if The above described boilers, and method of applying eat to them, or something like them, may perhaps be found expedient for farmeis, who perform their opera- tions on a large scale. But for common use we believe a five pail kettle so called set in the common way and filled about half full of water, would fully answer the purpose. Steam at the temperature of boiling water, Mr. Smith thinks is best adapted to the purpose of steamhig roots and other food for cattle. At this tem- perature, steam occupies about 1200 times the space of water ; or one gallon of water reduced to steam of the same temperature with boiling water, will furnish 1200 gallons of steam. It is true that steam when it first begins to operate on roots and other cold raw substan- ces must be somewhat rapidly condensed. But if the apparatus is tight, or if even a coarse thick cloth is thrown over the vessel in which the food is steamed, as recommended by the Complete Grazier, the whole %vill speedily become so much heated that the steam will be but slowly condensed, and of course the supply from the boiler need not be very copious. V>'e cannot, therefore, see for what purpose connected with the steaming of any reasonable quantity of dry food for cattle, a boiler of 100 gallons capacity should be need- ed. In preparing liquid messes for cows giving milk, &c. by the agency of steam, its expenditure will be great, in consequence of its being condensed by contact with cold water. But that steam may be made a vehi- cle for conveying heat with very little waste by evapo- ration, has been proved by actual experiments. We shall cite one in this place. A letter from Mr. Robert- son Buchanan, Civil Engineer, Glasgow, is published in Tilloch's Philosophical Magazine, vol. xxxviii, p. 7G, from which the following is extracted. " A place of worship has been for a considerable time heated by steam on a most simple plan, so as to require little or no attendance, and docs not require any icater wkiiltver to be added lo ihat first put into the boiltr, above thrice in a winter.'''' We believe in this case the furnace and boiler were placed without the building which was heated by the steam, and the steam was conveyed by suitable tubes from the boiler into metallic vessels or reservoirs placed in the apartment which was warmed by its agency ; and the tubes and resei'A'oirs were so arranged that when any part of the steam became con- densed it ran back into the boiler. (^Concluded in our next.") . Fur farther explanation of this method, see U'il- j) cft'i Domestic Enci/cloiicdia, Art. Boiler ; lil.cuu', iepcrluri/ of ^irls, ml. rii; p. 1. First Series. SU.MMARY OF CVRRE.VT EFE.VTS. A late arrival from Gibraltar has brought intelligence from Spain to the 11th of Jujy. B}' this it should seem that things in that quarter wear a very menacing as- pect. The population is divided into three parlies, viz. The advocates for unnu*xed democracy — the stick- lers for the old order of things, an absolute monarchy — and those who are friends to the present constitution, or a limited monarchy. On the return of the King from adjourning the Cortes, his carriage, was beset by riotous assemblages, and his guards, bting pelted with stones, fired on the assailants and compelled them to disperse. The next day (.Inly 1st) sanguinary scenes were an- ticipated, but nothing realized worse than menacing words and movements. But during the night four reg- iments of guards left their barracks, and encamped a league to the northward of Madrid. Many of their of- ficers, and some privates, however, refused to accom- pany them, and joined a guard left in the Palace, The seceders, amounting it is said to about 4000, appointed a Frenchman (whose name is not mentioned) leader, and took the road to the French frontiers, avowing themselves to be friends to absolute monarchy. They were followed by Gen. Morillo, an officer faithful to the constitution and existing form of government, who attempted to persuade them to return to Madrid to protect the King, and perform their other incumbent duties. This they refused to do, and in their turn at- tempted, in vain, to seduce him from his allegiance. The King remained at Madrid, to which tranquillity had been restored. He is considered as Uie Icaijtr of the Constitutionalists, and has been called upon to put himself at the head of the militia and march against the guards. This step, which would be the commenci - ment of a civil war, he does not appear to be prepared to take. The following (says the Centinel) is an extract of a letter from a well-informed American gentleman in Gibraltar: — '■ Gibraltar, .lalt/ '\\. We have very se- rious accounts from Madrid. The Anti-conslitutioii;tl party are taking measures lo reinstate the old order of things — an unlimited monarchy, privileged clergy, tc. The country is in a stati- of anxious disquietude, and much blood is about to be shed in civil strifi', Spain is in a wretchedly forlorn condition, and her capilalists an- getting their jiropevty out of ji iipardy. Nearly a aiillion of dollars have been remitted to this place within, afortniffhl.''' An article from Curacoa, by the way of Norfolk, states that Gen. Bolivar had fought a battle with the Spanish General Cruz Mourgeon, on the borders of Upper Peru, which lasted all the day, and that Boli\ar was compelled to retrt at the next morning. The for- ces were stated to have been GOOO on each side ; that the patriots lost half their army and one g( neral ; and that the loss of the Spaniards had been uncojnmonly severe. Complaints (says the Palladium,) are loud in Eng- land against the Bank, for not adopting some plan to render the counterfeiting of their bills more dilficuU, and the impositions and executions Itss frtquent. Mr. Perkins' mode has been adopted by most of the private Banks in England, and by the new Bank in Portugal. A battle is said to have taken place between the Turks and Saliots, which lasted three days, in which the Turks were deft ated with the lo->s of COO men tak- en, including fifty eminent Turks. There seems to be no prospect of war between Rus- sia and Turkey. On the contrary, a Vienna Gazette says, " We expect a declaration from the Emperor of Russia, by which he will detach himself from the Greek cause." In France there have lately been' some attempts to organize insurrections against the existing government. It does not appear, however, that they were successful. A public dinner has been given at the city of London Tavern, to Don Francisco Zea, Vice President and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Colombia. The wheat harvest had commenced in England, previous to the date of the last intelligence, and is said to be very productive. A great part of a late No. of the " Farmers' Journal, (an agricultural newspaper printed in London) is filled with details of Irish distress. A writer upon that sub- ject observes that ^^ beyond all doubt government will have to support the entire population of Ireland, before twelve months elapse, if it persist in refusing to allow a sufficient supply of legal tenders. The author of Waverley is engaged in writing a ncM' novel, to be called " Peveril of the Peake." It will he publislied in the antumn. .M.iKRL/lGES. In this city, Mr. George Bell, to Miss Mary Gardner. In .Mantanzas, Mr. Michael S. Tracy, formerly Of this city, to Miss Louisa Andrea, of M. DE.1THS. In this city, Mrs. Therese Kenny, wife of Mr. Asa K. 47. — Mrs. Mary Forsaine, wife of Mr. Nath'l F. 4h. .Mr. William Todd, 75. — Mr. .lames Ft nno, 62.— Char- lotte H. daughter of Capt. Pardon Gifford, 15 months, killed by falling from a chamber window. — Mrs. Sarah L. Draper, wife of Mr. Edw.ard D. C7. — Widow Lydia King, 77. — iMrs. Rachel, wife of Mr. Selim Hayden...— \A"idow Lydia Hunt, 69. — Mr. Horace Fairbanks, 27. — Emily, daughter of Mr. David A\ hiting, 2 yrs. S mo. In Taunton, Miss .Augusta Thomas, 19, daughter of the late Mr. Isaiah T. .Ir, of this city. In Mantanzas, Mr. Worham Pritst, of Boston. Deaths in N. Y. last week, 102— In Philadelphia 51, 32 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. O.N THE LMLb Oi BY T. C A MISIJIIUAOUS FESSESDEN. Many have fallen by the edge of the award, but not so many as have fallen by the loiifrue. Eccl. Apoc. xxviii, 8. Tho' millions the sword of the warrior has slaughter'd, While fame has the homicide's eulogy rung ; Yet many more millions on millions are martyr'd — Cut otf by that cowardly weapon, the tongue. One sword may bn match'd by another as keen, In battle the bold man a bolder may meet, But the shaft of the slanderer, flying unseen From the quiver of malice, brings ruin complete. An insolent tongue, by a taunt or a gibe, Enkindles heart-burnings and bloody affrays ; A treacherous tongue, when impiU'd by a bribe, The guiltless condemns, or a nation betrays. A smooth subtle tongue vile seducers employ The fair sex to lure to libidinous thrall ; A slip of the tongue risay its owner destroy, And the tongue of the serpent occasionM the fall. Then be it impressed on Columbian youth. That the tongue is an engine of terrible force ; Not govern'd by reason, not guided by truth, A plague, which may desolate worlds in its course. From the New York Statesman. O.V THE WILD IJs'DIGO PLAJ^T. jVIessrs. Editors, While we are anxiously copying the manipu- lations of European artists in our dyehouses, we are neerlecting to use an indigenous plant, far more valuable than any thing contained or used in Europe. Our blue dyers began with tl^e ash vat, described by Berthollet, and others, and I which Dr. Bancroft infonns us, " is so costly, as to be chiefly employed to dye silk." If this tvere the only objection, it would in itself be sufficient to induce an alteration ; but w hen in addition to this we know that the color is not so bright, or so permanent, as when indigo is fermented by some vegetable basis, containing in itself the primitive coloring matter, we shall be much surprised that this mode of dying has been so long continued. The plant used by Europeans, from time im- memorial, to ferment their blue vats, has been the isatis, or woad, which is indigenous in Eng- land and other parts of Euro|)e. It is not sur- prising, therefore, that it shou!:i be used there, as nothing better offered itself; but tn the U. States we have the wild indigo plant, growing abundantly every where, that possesses all the valuable fermenlative properties of woad, with twentv times as much coloring matter, and giv- ino- a tint that for permanency and brilliancy is unrivalled. " It is well known, according to Mr. Clark- son, that the African dyes are superior to those of any otiicr part of the globe. >•• The blue is so much more permanent and beautiful than that which is extracted from the same plant in other parts, that many have been led to (loulit whether the yVfrican cloths brought into this country (England) were dyed with ui- digo or not. They apprehended that the colors in these, which became more beantiful upon washing, must have proceeded from another weed, or have been an extraction from other iveed.? which are celebrated for dying tliere — The matter, however, has been cioarly ascer tained ; a gentleman procured two or three of the balls, which had just been prepared by the Africans for use ; he brought them home, and upon examination found them to lie the leaves of indigo rolled up in a very simple state." Having noticed the above article in Dr. Ban- croft's incomparable work on permanent colors, I was induced last fall to collect some of the jilant, not with an intention of coloring with it, as I had no means of preparing for that jiurpose, but to use the woad \ats m place of swill from bran and madder, to assist their fermentation, which were weak, owing to the woad being of an inferior ciuality. I gathered nearly a cart load, too late in the season to obtain it in matu- rity, and bad it boiled, and used the liquor when wanting. The plants were too old to retain much of those succulent juices in which their value chielly consists, yet it answered the in- tended purpose, for the liquors so long as I was enabled to supply them with it, worked much freer and more vigorous, than in the usual way, and although this experiment was not decisive, for want of a sufficient quantity, and from the plant being too old when gathered, yet 1 am convincedljy the effect produced that it may be used to great advantage. As the indigofera is found every where in the United States, and in many places m great abundance, it would seem desirable that some experiments should be made on it, to test the superiority attributed to it, of which there ap- pears but little room for doubt ; for if this were established it would become an object of great national importance, inasmuch as the color made from it, would be superior to those ob- ta!ne=cripfion are er production of horn, nl-.ich has grown into a frequently large, flat and thin, thouj:h there are state ol exuoerance in some parts, and is worn also some which are verv thin, lull not out of and broken in other-. AVhen the hoof is dives- proportion in si/e : both kinds ari> uidformly run- ted o( these exuberances in the same way, as v:c ca\e on the front i)art of the crust, and curl up cut our nails to keej) them in a lit state, 1 con- at the toe, in proportion to the extent of the sider that the proper time to look at the hoof, defect, it is equally observable, that the cru>t to observe its natural shafie. It will then appear in feet of this description, is uncxen on the sur- that the base or bottom of the crust descends to face; being frequently indented, wrinkled, aud the lowest part of the foot, and I'rojects beyond having a rin^like appearance." the sole, and is that i>art which the hor-e rests Snnill Fed. — '' It is, not unfrequcnt to see large ujion. It should therefore be thick, tlnn and horses, but chielly among those which are *'''°"2;. thorough-bred, with small feet. The bass of "As the crust is that part on which the shoe the feet of these horses not being broad enough rests, and to which it is nailed, it is \evy im- to support the superincumbent weight, they are porlant that it should be perfect in thickness consequently insecure on their legs, and soon and strennfth. The bars or hinders, being a re- break down." flection or continuation of the crust, should he tirm and strong, and should have an oblique poBition in the descent to their imion willi the bottom of the frog. The sole should also be tirmly and unlbrmly united with the crust and bars, and be strong and concave." " Th Large Feel. — " There is likewise a class of horses with feet of a form the reverse of the last described, having no particular malforma- tion, but being too large and unwieldy," " When such horses are required to work, the weight of the foot has a manilest effect on their e frog, which is uneven in its sur.lice, be- action, rendering it slow and clumsy * S EXPLA.VATIO.y OF nijil CUTS. Fio. 1. — Natural hoof, -aiut rf-prc-sentation of tlic French metlioii of diivinjf tlic naile within tlic crust, and going througli a portion of the sole. Fig. 2. — Contracted hooC Fic. 3. — Convex sole, or pumiced hoof. Fig. 4. — Flat thin hoof, with weak low heels. Fro.Ti the American Fr.rmer of Anjust 23. I have given a full account of these sheep in the 2d volume of the Pliihulelphia Agricultural TUNISIAN SHEEP Memmrs. My opinions continue unaltered; and ,,, , . , . J- ,1 rii ■ 1 had supnosed the subject to have been ex- We have ctc at pleasure in recording the rollov,in» , , , . 1 • • • j- 1 authentic history of an importation of ■funisian Sheep, hausted. I have no desire to revive it, turlher and we i)articularly desire that our correspondents than to answer your queries as fully as historical would furnish us with accounts, as detailed, respecting facts require; and that with no personal objects, every impi.rtalion of Live Stork, which has come witli- | ^^ „(,( relate the circumstances to blazon mv ,n their knowledge ; and especially when the facts ^^^^^ exertions, but under a persuasion that a use- 50 conclusively demonstrate the t<'ndency ol agricuRu- _ , , \ , /- .1 1 .1 rul pursuits and subjects to inspire all who .mhark ^u' moral may be drawn from them. I am the therein, with a liberality of feeling and design which, only person acquainted with the whole subject, so far from admitting the idea of venal rivalry or sordid to which I do not mean to give more importance monopoly, hid every one generously welcome to the thaii your inquiries seem to elicit. Col. Pickeriii'.;, fair enjoyment of new sources of profit. with'bis accustomed candor, has published, 111 Fo7(/io«''i paper of the 4th or 5th of July l:i«t, Belmont, August 14, 1822. what he thought proper as to himself" The Dear oir, paragraph has not his singnature ; but he inform- In your paper of the 2d instant, I see queries ed me of his having written it ; and 1 mention respecting the Tims nno.\nrAii.En Shekp. it, for reasons operating with me. " Hoxu many 7vere received i* and were any sent I imderstood, /Vow Gen. Eatnn, and so did iiUo ether states ?" Col. Pickering, that eight or ten sheep were shipped; but only a pair arrived. Reing fai preferable to the coast sheep, they were pro cured by Gen. Eaton, (as he inibrincd me,) <\ the Dey's farm in the interior of the country, h\ the Dey's permission, as a compliment to the I'liifed Stales. It was therefore proper tha: they should pass under the direction of the Sec- retary of State. They arrived in the TJclau-are. in a publ'c ship; and of course, were placed hv Col. Pickering in the neighbourhood of the pori of arrival. It v.ould have been out ofcharactei with him, (only one pair having arrived) li have sent them into any other state ; nor woul he have so done, in wliatsoever way he niigli have received them. 1 was informed that tlu rest of the shipment |)erished at sea. Cajii Ccihlcs, to whose care they were committed, hai a character too respectable to permit any sup position that he was either negligent or selfish yet Gen. Eaton expressed much dissatisfactioi. and chagrin. The burlhensomc, though not regretted, de- posit, uas put into my hands by Col. Pickering Concidciing myself as a kind of trustee; aniJ always desirous of spreading through our coun- try tiie benefits of such acquisitions; I refuset offers of emolument ; though no terms forbid- iling personal profit, were made. I gratuitously disjiersed the breed, not only in Pennsylvania but into the neiglibouring states ; at no smal trouble and expense to myself. Several victu- allers, finding the superiority of the mutton ove: that of all other sheep, both in quality and price 1 made up a purse and offered any sum I chose U fix for the Ram. I refused the proffer, and af ter his covering, during several seasons grea numbers of ewes sent to my farm; and thci( pastured and served without charge; he was con Tcyod to my late friend. Gen. Ilinid'x farm nea; Lancaster; where he was killed by dogs ; affe; propagating the breed extensively. The ew< met the like late, on my farm ; having yeaned ■ healthy lamb at sixteen 3 ears of age. Chancellor Liringsion^s sale of two .Merini sheep for §3000, gave impetus to the ardo: which had begun to operate in favor of tha breed. Had he given them away, the effec would have been tar olherivise on the minds 0 both farmers and speculators. Euila les homnics Fancy paints profits in proportion to price paid Small gains are counted on gifts, or cheap pur chases. Discovering the impolicy of continuing (how ever beneficial my distributions may, at first have been.) gratuitously to bestow lambs ; am of mv other modes of dispersing the breed with out charge ; I encouraged my neighbor, Thoma. Bones, in raising fine Broadlailed Sheep, fron my stock, for sale on his own account. He di( great justice to my confidence in him ; and sole considerable numbers ; many whereof at thcii request, 1 selected for the purchasers. Manj were sent to South Carolina, as I mention in oui volume. The credit of, and dcaiandfor the sheepl Xi'ere rcalhj enhanced by the prices paid for them though those prices were moderate, indeed compared with those of jlffri.ios; which over whelmed the Tunisians in public opinion, dur ing the Jlerino-fever. Country peojile do not vabie an article givet a-ji-aii; presuming that it is held by the donor it ^inall estimation ; and in this they are not sin Hular. The usual short sighted practice amon§ farmers, of selling to victuallers, or in the mur Nfi^V ENGLAND FARMER. ket the best lambs and sheep; and keeping; only those unsaleable ; deteriorated the breed mo>-t lamentably. My tenants, who had the charge of my Hock, had their share in this culpable pro- pensity. Several butchers posted breeders from mv stock, in Jersey and Uelarfare. The pro- s:eny were slaughtered for the market. This also diminished the multiplicatikii of the breed. Yet 1 was surprised by the information I fre- quently received, at the numbers produced from an original pair, even under circumstances not -dhvay'\,^eourag'inar. 1 know of no other importation of Darbary sheep, contemporaneous with the sulvjects of this account. Long after the arrival of the pair mentioned ; I was inl'ormed that Capt. Baron had brought some broacllailcd coast sheep into Virginia. Hut from the accounts of them 1 had heard, they were inferior to the Mountain sheep ot' Tint is : anil so are all other African sheep which have iallen \inder my notice. The sheep of the Eastern countries, Asia and At'rica, are generally (with some exceptions,) broadtailcd. Many years ago I saw, in England, in Die King's tlock at Richmond, several of the Lati- candcr. Some of them with cumbrous trailing tails, borne on little wheel carriages, dragged after them. None of them, in appearance, equal to the Tunis Mountain sheep. In my old, learn- ed, and valuable work, — Hcheuchzer's Pkijsicw sacra, — there are plates, admirably executed, of victims for the Jewish altars. Among them, trailing Broadtails similar to those I saw at Richmond. So that there are many varieties of the Laticaudo; ; and the success of breeders entirely depends on the selection of the valuable kind". The name, (as you seem to require it) I gave to the Ram, was Caramelli, that of the E^ve, Setiina. They will, perhaps, become memora- ble, as the first emigrants to our country, from this branch of the extensive family of the Lali- candce. Not knowing, exactly, the object of j'our que- ries, I may have enlarged unnecessarily. But vou may gather what you deem satisfactory, for any purpose you contemplate. Yours truly, RICHARD PETERS." John S. Ski.n'ner, Esq. From the New England Palladium of Xug. "23, RYE COFFEE. Messrs. Editors, A writer in the Palladium of the 16t!i inst. who signs a '• Friend to Health,'' has ad\ anccd a theory on the effects of Rye, which appears so absurd, thai Tam almost inclined to think he meant the article as a hoax ; be that as il mav. the subject is of too much importance to the community to permit such unfounded assertions to pass without refutation. This writer attri- butes the cause of ■weak limhs and ih.hUhaied systems, which he says a vast number of [)ersons have suffered from, to the use of •' a compound of half Rye, and half im]icrted Coflee, ground together;'' and that '■' Rije is peculiarly calcu- lated to produce that effect." — Now, if he had stated that a free use of the spirit distilled from Rye produced such elTects, he might have found but few to controvert his position. Rut, that Rye, its outer coat or bran, by any preparation, except by di.stillation, is deleterious to man or blast, I pledge myself to prove to the satisfac- tion of every unprejudiced person, is an asser- tion not founded on facts. If the writer will aiiply to the able and wor- thy Professor of Chemistry at the University, he will learn, that most of this outer coat, which ho says produces those debilitating ciTects, is, by the ruasting process, converted into carbon — in plain English charcoal, which is insoluble, aiid of course, if the decoction is well fined, no part of it w ill be taken into the -system, and if it w as, no injury could possibly result, as a little char- coal is considered by most medical men as not unhealthy, and tor some complaints is prescrib- ed in large doses. This " Friend to Health" admits that ■' a per- son may eat the fine meal, w'ithout witnessing any ill eflects." Indeed ! 1 will go farther, and say that it is a fact which can be fully substan- tiated, that five, or perhaps more, that ten mil- lions of men that have composed the armies of Russia, S-xedcn, Denmark, Prussia, and the Ger- man Powers, during the wars of the last centu- ry, have subsisted upon little else than bread made with Rye Bran, and which they consider- ed a luxury if the bark of trees was not mixed with it — for such compounds were often fur- nished by Peter the Great and Charles the 12th — yet history makes no mention of any com- plaint of " -hia, he would not have introduced Horses to support his theory. He migdit there have seen fine teams of that noble animal, as large and powerful as Elephants, and as f;it as Whales, just off a journey of 5 or 600 miles, across the Allegh.iny mountains, with a load of tour or five tons, that were fed the whole route on Rye, outer coat, chaff and straw cut up to- gether, and as much too as they wanted ; with- out any other gi'ain, or scarce a lock of hay during the whole journey ! He happens to be equal!}' unfortunate with the Pigs lie has bro't forward to prove that Rye Coffee is injurious to the human system, for on this point I do speak from the experience of near thirty years, and from the use of more than n thousand bushels of jK^c and Rye bran in roaring and fattening Pigs. This writer says that after eating bran they will "lie down and swell with weakness!'" I have seen them lay down after being gorged with this nutritious food, and they might have appeared to the ej-es of some persons to " swell u';(/t ^■eakness,'''' but 1 believe that it would ap- pear on dissection, to have been caused by a full belly of ihis poisonous slnff, and their dispo- sition to sleep, from its fattening properties ! I could cite many examples to shew tjic benefit of I'eeding animals with Rye and Rye bran. But it is time to i'cturn to Rye Coffee, which ap- pears to liave been extensively used in the middle States, particularly in Pennsylvania, for seveial years past, but no accounts of its debili- taling cflccts have reached us ; on the contrary, 1 shall offer high Medical authority to prove that it is a strengthening beverage for the sto- mach. Gen. Cahin Jones, of North Carolina, one of the most eminent Physicians in the Southern States, and who stands in the front rank of the philanthropists of our country, has written a dissertation on Dyspepsia, the great prevalence of wliich he attributes, in some ttc- gree, to the use of strong imported Coffee, and he s:iys that in order to induce some of' his pa- tients to dispense with it, he has prevailed on them to substitute Rye Coffee, and that the free use of it has relieved them! — A letter from him fo Mr. Skinner on the subject, was publislied in the American Farmer, last March or April ; it is not at hand now, or 1 would send it to yon. I hope however to see it soon published in your valuable paper. The goodness of Domestic Coffee depends en its being proi)er!y prejiarod from sound Rye. I look up'on the discovery and introduction of it, as very fortunate and of great importance to the country, as it lessens the expense of a very considerable item in house keeping, and at the same time is conducive to health. Its use there- fore should not be discouraged till some better proofs can be adduced of its ill effects, than vague surmises and arguments, drawn from Horses and Sivine. A MIDDLESEX FARMER. Mozi'ing Match. — There was a famous mow- ing match in New Boston, on Saturda}', August 17th, between Mr. Daniel Andrews, of New Boston, and Mr. Abel Hart, of Gotfstown. The comjjetition was who should mow an acre of meadow grass the quickest and best. The ground was staked out and the work performed in the jirescnce of numerous spectators. Mr. Andrews completed his acre in one hour and tucntj'-six minutes. BIr. Hart, in one hour and twenty-eight and a half minutes. The victory was oV course decided in favor of Mr. Andrews. Amherst {JV. H.) Cabinet. A safe, easy and cheap cure. — A broken winded horse had been kept in a field where there wa.s not any water, excei)t in the boffom of an old lime kihi, and had recovered his wind — The owner ordered a stable shovel full of quick lime to be renewed every five or six days, and the water to be poured ofl", and a bucket of it to be given every day to a broken winded coach horse, aged eight years, which had almost a constant cough. The horse was sup])lied with water thus prepar- cd for about five weeks, and kept in the stable. Me is now perfectly recovered in his wind, and free from a cough. — Conn. Journal. We have seen a twig broken from a pe.rr tree (says the last Newhuryport Herald,) this season, scarcely two feet long, which, when laken off, we are told contained upwards of 80 pears. On it was upwards of 60 hanging in clusters like grapes, and of a size as large -a.s hen's eggs. It came from the town of Essex ia this couufv. 36 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. FACTS AND OBSFIRVATIO.NS RIXAII.'.G 10 T^GRICULTUIIE & DOM r.STlC. ECONOMY. MANLRC. It is a generally received opinion that in some soils of a loose texture, the fcrtilizinsr parts of manure escape by sinking; Lioyonit the reach of plant-. The Hon. Timothy I'lrlcering, in an Address to the Essex Agricultural Society, delivered May 5, 1818, made thf; followin:,'- ob- servations on this subject. Speaking' of wiiat is .sometimes called riih/tc lami, Mr. 1'. remarks: " But is it true, that on such land, or on any land, the fertilizingf parts of manure escape by .sinking beyond the reach of plants? If they do, hovv hajjpons it, that in lands which have been cultivated and manured for ag;es, every layer of earth below the cultivated soil is, nevertheless, found dead and barren ? Is it not for this reason, that farmers in jfeneral cautiously avoid j)louu;h- ing deeper than the soil, lest by stirring that dead earth, and ni'xing it with the soil, they should lessen its fertility? The result of a lit- tle experiment which 1 had made prior to our revolution then occurred to me. Its recital may in some other resj)ects be useful. " Within a stone's throw of my lather's house, was apiece of sandy loam, winch from its conti- guity to the dwelliii;,'--place ofhimself and ances- tors, for upwards of a hundred and thirty years, must have been kcfif, a large portion of that time, ill tillage, and consequently have been of- ten manured. Vet the colored soil was no more th.en five or six inches in dcj)lh. This soil I re- moved from one spot, with three or four inches of the earth ne.xt beiiealii it. Of the next, red earih, 1 then took up as much as measured a pock and u half Dividing a long box into two e(|ual portions by a board, into one I put a peck of the earth ; and into the other a half peck, intimately mmglcd and incorporated with half a peck of clay — perfect clay to the touch; but it was ta- ken from the edge of a clay-pit holding water, where cattle often drank, and a flock of geese bathed, during the summer. Hence the appar- ent cl.ay was doubtless impregnated, in some de- gree, with the droppings from these animals. This box I. placed, on the sud'ace, in a garden. Adjacent to it, I sunk, to a level with the surliico, a small earthen pot tilled with the same sort of, clav'. In these three places 1 sowed turnip seed, as late as the 2Uth of August. In a few >lays I reduced the number of turnip plants in each to thyee. The pot of clay, even with the surface, received suiTicicnf water from rams: but I reg- ularly watered the parcels of earth in the box ; bestowing equal quantities, and at the same times, on each division. Near the close of Oc- tober, I carefully took up the turniin, and wash- ed them, leaving u|)on them the tibroiis roots and leaves. The three which had grown in the pot of clay weighed ten ounces — the bulbs hot lo the taste, stringy and tough. The three i'rom the de;id red earth weighed only three ounces, and the bulbs were sol't, spungy and insipid. But the three which had groun in the mingled red e;irth and clay weighed twenty-four ounces, :ind the bulbs were of good texture, and well fla- vored. " P'rom the facts above stated, I fell authoriz- ed to infer, that all the lost manure, (that is, all til ^ parts not imbibed by the roots of plants, nor Temalning in the soil) instead of sinking befcw ♦h • sphere of vegetation, rosr into the atmos- jiherc : and that " riddle laud,'" (land on which the elTects of manure were not lasting) however highly manured, so soon lo«t its fert'lit\, not by letting the essence of the manure sink speedily through it, but by its incapacity to retain it aguiiisl the pov:er of evaporation.'^ From these, ^iid other considerations, Mr. Pickering infers, " that manure arising from dung, and from all animal and veget djie sub- stances, should be exposed as little as possible lo the sun, the air and washing rains, and when applied to the soil, be immediately ploughed in. .\nd further that the aim of the husbandman, possessing a soil from which the essence of his manure soon escapes, should be to add some- thing ivhich will render it more tenacious ; like the soil which, in current language, is said ' to hold manure well.' Tor this purpose, noth- ing, probably, is equal to clay." LIVE STOCK. In observing on premiums given by Agricul- tural Societies for the best animals, Mr. Pick- ering observes : " With great deference I would inquire, whe- ther giving rewards for the biggest and ihe fat- test, is the best mode of obtaining the most x(du- rti/e breeds ? Bakewell, the English celebrated breeder of cattle, sheep and swine, exercised his genius to produce such as were excellent in form, of sudicicnt size, which yielded the great- est quantity of meat on the most valuable joints, and would grow and fatten on the smallest quan- tities of food. In the fattening of cattle and sheep, there is a point to be attained, at which their tlesh will be of the best qiialit3-, and most valuable to the consumer. Is not all beyond this a waste of time and expense in their keep- ins ?■' INDIAN CORN. Under this head Mr. Pickering remarks : — •' The inijjroving of our hu-!)andrv, in New England, is to be expected, not from a rejection of Indian corn as the ruin of our lands, but by a bolter management of that crop, in order to render it, as it ai>pears it may be rendered, the best prejuiration for a crop of wheal, and other small grain. '•' Every farmer knows how eagerly cattle devour the entire plant of Iiidi.an corn in its green stale ; and land in good condition will produce heavy crops of it. Some years ago, just when the ears were in the milk, I cut close to the ground the plants growing on a measured space, equ:il, as I judged, to the ave- rage product of the whole piece ; and found that, at the same rate, an acre would yield twelve tons of green fodder; probably a richer and more nourishing food than any other known to the husbandman. And this quantity w-as the growth of less than four months. The ground was rich, and yielded, at harvest, upwards of fifty bushels of corn to the acre. The green stalks of our northern corn are incomparably sweeter than those of the southern states ; at least v/hen both sorts arc groivn in the north. Perhaps the greater and longer continued heats of the south may give a richness to the same large plants, which these cannot attain in the north. The stalks I have grown, rose to the height of 13 or 11 feet, and many of them weighed above live pounds. To support this height they arc necessarily thick and woody in their fibres. My cows ate a small part of them — reluctantly — while they would devour the stalks ol' our northern corn. It has appeared to me that the sort c:illed sii'cri coivi, (bavin? a white shrivelled grain when ripe) yields stalks of richer juice than the common yellow corn. It is also more disposed to multiply suckers an additional recommendation of it, when plant- ed to be cut iu its green stale, for horses and cattle, and especially for milrh cows ; and its time of planting ni:iy be so regulated as to fur- nish a sup|dy of food, just when the common pa'^iure* usually fiil. 1 am inclined ^u dcubt whether any other green food will ali'ord butter of equal excellence." F.tLI.OW CROPS. "Mr. Pickering further observes, that, " The substituting of fallow-crops for naked fallows is one of the capital improvements in English husbandly. The naked fallows, formerly in universal practice, consisted in repeatedly plow- ing the land from spring to autumn — with tivo objects in view : one, the destruction of weeds, with which their lands became foul by repeat- edly cropping them with small grain, as wheat, barley, oats, rye, in immediate succession ; for the weeds springing up with these crops, and ripening their seeds, the soil, in three or four years, was so amply stocked, that some mode of extirpating the weeds became indispensable. But for many ages no other than naked fallows seein to have occurred. The English farmers now grow tallow crops, selected according to the nature of their soils; as beans, carrots, turnips, potatoes, mangel wurtzel, cabbages. While these are growing, they/fl//oKi the ground; that is, they stir it repeatedly with the plough or hoe, or both; by which they as effectualy de- troy the weeds as by the naked fallow ; a»d at the same time benefit their crops, whose pro- ducts reward them for their labor. '■ Naked fallows seem also formerly to have been considered as the means of enriching as well as of cleaning the land. The error of their practice, in this view, cannot be better illustra- ted than by the following fact, communicated above 30 years ago to the Phil.idelphia .Society of .\griculture, when I was a reiidenl member, and which 1 well recollect. But to prevent cii- ciim-tantial errors in the recital, I have turned lo the Notes on Husbandry, by Mr. Bordley, (who was the vice-jiresident of the society.) where the case is staled. '• Pi. gentleman of Jlaryland (Mr. Singleton oj Talbot) ploughed up part (and this was the rich- est jiart) of a clover field, in March, intending to plant it with tobacco. It haiipenoil, that the toiiacco crop was omitted. So. this part was t'allo-j:ed, that is, it was repeatedly ploughed in the summer, and on the first of September, sown with wheat. The residue of the clover field was twice mown. In August it was once plough- ed, and on the same first of September sown with wdieat. At harvest, the fallowed part o the field yielded only 1 1 and a half bushels to the acre. The other part, besides two crops ofclover hav the preceding year, now gave 2t and a half bushels to the acre. This striking fact admits of an easy explanation, and in conformity with the principles already advanced. The repeated ploughing of the fallowed part of the field ex- posed the clover plants, roots and tops to the sun and air, by which they were dried up, and nearly annihilated ; while other vegetable food in the NEW ENGLAND FARMER. ^7 soil was also dissipaleil, or grcall}' reduced, Li\ evaporation. But the clover, turned under by « simple ploughing-, was cninpleteh' covered with carlli, kept moist, gradually rotted, and so sup- plied food to the wheat plants most plentifully wlien most wanted, that is, in iho ensmng sea- son, when the wheat was attaining its complete growth, and ripening the grain.*' IMl'ROVF.MF.NT OF SOILS. Soils may be improved by the admixture of earths to alter their texture. This is a distinct thing from applying the substances commonly called manures. A soil may be composed of ni iterials so essentially unfr.endly to vegetation that any attempt to manure it without altering its consti'ution^ or correcting its noxious quali- ties, would lie like feeding a sick man with nourishing things, without removing the cause ■of his disorder. Sir John Sinclair says, " Soils with acids, or salts of iron, may be ameliorated by the appli- cation of earthy lime or chalk. The sulphate of iron (copperas) is thus converted into manure. If there be an excess of calcareous matter (lime or chalk,) it may be improved by the applica- lion of sand or clay, or earthy substances. Soils too abundant in sand, are benefitted by the use of clay, or marl, or vegetable matter. A defi- ciency of vegetable or animal matter must be supplied by manure. An excess of vegetable matter is to be removed by burning, or to be remedied by the application of earthy materi- als. The substances necessary for improving ^oils arc seldom far distant. Coarse sand is often found immediately upon chalk, and perhaps al- ways under it, while beds of sand and gravel are commonly below clay, and clay and marie generally below sand.'' PRESERVING ME.^TS. The following recipes are from Additions to Willich's Domestic Encyclopedia, by Thomas Cooper, Esq. Professor of Chemistry and Min- eralogy. ' " If meat be intended merely for family use, and to be u«ed in two or three months, the fol- lowing pickle deserves to be recommended : Water, one gallon ; salt, nineteen ounces ; salt petre, one ounce and a lialf; sugar, half pound. '•The Russians are fond of the flavor of juni- per berries, and add a pound of bruised juniper to a gallon of pickle. " A tea-spoonful or two of cayenne pepper to ihe gallon, greatly increa.ses the preserv.ng I power of the pickle. ; '' To cure gammons, first sprinkle them as Ii soon as they are cut and trimmed, with a little ' (Livcr()Ool) salt. Let them lay together for i twelve hours : take them out of the tub. dri.n ^.^nd wipe them ; then rub them separately '.vilh a mixture of twelve parts common salt and one part salt petre, well dried and then ground line. Hub in this mi>iure well ; lay them in the piok- ' ling tub, and the next day rub them again with a similar mixture. The day after fill up the tub ^viih a brine made in the proportion of 18 oz. salt, 1 lb. molasses, and 1 oz. salt petre, to the gallon of water. In this pickle they may stay f I r a fortnight. Then take them out, drain. wipe and smoke them. '■ It they are sulTered to make their own brine by means of dry salt and salt petre en- tirely, t!iey will lose too much of the juices of ihe meatj and become bard and dry. '• 1 have successfully cured beef in summer thus : " I killed an ox in the middle of .\ugust, at 9 o'clock in llie evening ; it was cut up at 3 o'clock in the morn.ng. The pieces were (piicklj' rubbed with a mixture of ten parts of salt, and one part of salt petre, and put into a barrel. In the mean time a brine com|)oscd of 1 1-2 lbs. of sail, 2 oz. of salt petre, and half an ounce of common pepper, to the gallon of wa- ter, was ready over the fire, and when the beef was all packed in the barrel, it was poured on boiling hot. This prevented and destroyed all lly-liloivs. In a week, the pieces were taken out, drained and wiped ; the pickle was boiled over again, scummed, and again poured boiling hot on the meat when re-packed. The process answered the purpose perfectly." A METHOD OF PRESERVING CREAM. Take twelve ounces of white sugar, and as many grains of finely powdered magnesia, and dissolve them in a small quantity of water, over a moderate fire. After the solution has taken place, 12 oz. of new cream should be immedi- ately added, and tlie whole uniformly mixed while hot. Let it then gradually cool, and pour it into a bottle, which must be carefully corked. if kept in a cool place, and nol exposed to the air, it may be preserved in a sweet state for several weeks, and oven months. Doiiicsiic EncyclopcdUi. TO PREVENT BOTTLED CIDER FROM BURSTLVC. Make a strong frame of plank, say 1 1-2 or 2 inches thick and 9 deej), by locking it together edge-wise, place it in the cellar, and sit the bottles of cider in it, (after being well corked) as close as possible, until it is entirely filled, except the space for one bottle, which must be left to commence taking them from, when want- ed for pse. Then put clean sand on them, and settle it between the bottles, by (hrouing on ^\- teriiately water and sand, until the sand is well settled half Hay up the neck of the bottles. In that situation the bottles will be preserved, filled with the very best cider for any length of time. By placing ice on the sand over the quantity of bottles |)roposed to be used a day, it will be as if put into ice water. — imerican Farmer. TO rRF.VE.NT SKIPPERS IN B.ir0N. Take of red pepper finel}' powdered one ta- ble spoonful for every joint of meat, and rub it on the meat with the salt, when it is first cut up. It has been often tried, and was never known to fail in producing the above effect. — ib. EXTIRP.ITING RATS AND MICE. Lay bird lime in their haunts ; for though they are nasty enough in other respect.s, 3'et being very curious of their fur, if it is but daub- ed with this stuff, it is so troublesome to them, that they will even scratch their skins from oil their own backs to get it off; and will never abide in the place where they have suffered in this manner. — Farmer's Journal. Qitfre. — Would tar answer the same purpose as bird lime ? From (he Providence Journal. To those zuho make., and those who love good Cider. A few years ago, I was dining with a friend. who knew my fondness for Cider with my food. He remarked, '• my friend, 1 have no cider to otter you. Onr apples have been principally cut off by frosts and insects, for several years past ; but I can give you some cider wineV' I took some of it, and diluted it with water, suffi- cient as I calculated, to reduce it (0 the strength of late made cider. When 1 drank of it, to my surprise, 1 found I had a glass of very excelleiit cider, with only the liistc of a little ajiple bran- dy in it. The discovery of this fact suggested to my mind the following conclusion : — That farmers in a iderdii'ul year of apples, may, with a little care, lay up a supply of good" cider, against a year of scarcity. This niav be done within a small compass, in the following man- ner : — Take your first made cider, which is fit only for the still, and convert it into brandy ; put nine gallons of this brandy into a new barrel ; then fill the barrel with late made cider, well strained, and bung it tight. This gives you the strength of near four barrels of cider, in one. The strength given to it by the brand}', will preserve its sweetness entire, for many years. That which 1 drank was ten or twelve years old ; and it was not impaired by age. When if is used, it only requires a sufficient quantifv of water mixed with it, to render it excellent ci- der. The barrels should be new, and clean. To guard against the rotting which is caused by damp cellars, they should be iron bound, and well painted. In this manner, any farmer, who has the fruit, may put up, in six barrels, the essence of twenty barrels of good cider, and keep it until a time of need. It will Jine itself; and will grow better with an increase of age. Besides, if it is not wanted as cider, it is a very pleasant cordial, when imdllnted; and, with the addition of a bushel of wild grapes, bruised, and put into each barrel, it imbibes the peculiar flavor of the grape, and becomes a very pleasant wine. As there is an unusual quantity of apples this year, I have thought this communication might be useful to agriculturists. Now is the time for grinding up the early windfalls ; and the cider, which these produce, if distilled, will furnish the brandy necessary for making the cider wine. And I can assure you, my friends, prepared in this way, it is much pleasanter, and less injurious to health and morals, than when drank, in the usual manner, mixed with wafer. Those farmers who are fond of good cider with their food, and who have felt the want of it, in consequence of a scarcity of apples, will, 1 trust, feel the importance of attending to this subject, now, when they are blessed with an abundance of fruit. And another season, when their neighbors are destitute, the possession of a plenty of excellent cider in their cellars, will more fully realize to them the value of this communication, if they will make the experi- ment. \. B. A correspondent states that the medical qua- lifies of pulverized Charcoal, are daily devel- oping themselves. In addition to its value in bilious disorders, two ounces of the Charcoal boiled in a pint of fresh milk, may be taken in doses of a wine glass full, by adults, every two hours, in the most obstinate dyscntert/. until relief is imparted, which has not failed to be the effect in almost every instance. It is harmless and the experiment maj' be safely tried. Charcoal made from maple wood is the purest that can be read- ily obtained. — Baltimore Chronicle. nn NEW ENGLAND FARMER. From the Floridian. XATIVE ATT GALLS. Messrs. Editor?, It may perhaps be gratifying to your readers lo learn, that among the abundant veg;etable productions ot' West Florida, Iha Qnercus Cer- ris or Oriental Oak stands in the first class. It owes its importance principally to the produc- tion of Nut (ialls. They have hitherto been imported from the Mediterranean at a great expense, and tiieir importance in manufactures is well known. They are the production of an insect of an lii/incnoj)itrous ^)ccicr'. The Cijnops Qucrcifolu, who de[iosit their eggs on the leaves and tender branches of the tree ; an excrescence is soon I'ortned around the eg?, which enlarges to a ball the .size of a bullet, enclosing the egg; which in process of time is hatched, and the enibr^'o olten undergoing several changes, finally eats its way out of its prison. This excrescence is the iVut Gall ; and those found in Florida arc equal in every respect to those imported from the Levant. This tree seldom attains the hei»ht often feel. and grows prmcipally in low and wet situations, and the galls cover the branches in great profu- sion. The writer of this gathered in the space of a few snoments several pounds. When it is taken into consideration the importance of this production in Dying and Medicine, their present high price (from 50 to gGO per cwt.) and their not being indigenous in any other part of the l^ S. we know of nothing that would so well repay the enterprize of any of our citizens, as collect- ing and sending them to the northward for sale. 4 Friend to Domestic Industry. From the Amherst (N. 11.) Calliiet. Tlio Committee of the Hillsborough Agricul- fural Society appointed to view the tield pro- ducts of competitors, performed the duty as- signed them in the present week, agreeably to the new regulation of the Society, substituted in the place of the greatest croiis, viz. "The premiums are to be awarded by a viewing com- mittee from actual inspection of the crops growing in the liclds, and they will take into consideration not only the crops, but the soil, situation, former and present method and ex- pense of culture, and the general husbandry of the farm." The gentlemen composing the committee who attended to the duty of their appointment, were Kev. H. Moore, P. Wood- bury, E'<(i. Capt. Wm. Riddle, C'apt. E. Abbot, Joseph Cochmn, Esq. Mr. Phillip Brown, and Mr. Porter Kimball. This conmiittee appears to have been judiciously chosen ; being all men of practical farming knowledge. They passed through this and the noighl)oring towns on Wednesday, and were accompanied by a number of gentleman in viewing the farms entered for competition. They proceeded in their bu.sincss with precision and expedition, and evinced judgment and skill suited to the undertaking. TliL' committee expressed themselves highly pleased with their employment, and the highest •mcomiums on llie reception and generous treat- ment they every where met with on their tour of observation — the people generally appear- ing greatly pleased with the change of the sys- tem of granting premiums on agricullural pro- ■iucts. The committee entertain no doubt that premiums awarded in this manner will produce 'he hajipiost re-ul(-. It i= hoped that this c.-i- periment \vM excite the farmers of the county to a lively sense of the importance of promoting the general interests of the Society as immedi- ately connecled with their own and the general wcllare of the community — That hereafter the Society may be enabled to offer premiums for the best managed farms, taking into consideration the soil and situation, the ability of the owner to make improvements, and the system on which he manages — and that the competitors may be greallv increi-ed. i\EW ENGLAND 1-AKMEK. BOSTOjV.— SATURDAY, AUGUST 31, 1822. We would beg leave to direct the attention of our readers to the piece with which this day's paper com- mence?, which we think rational, philosophical, and calculated to be useful. Future favors of a similar na- ture from the same haud are respectfully solicited. COOKL\G FOOD FOR CATTLE. {Concluded from page 31.) In the conslriictiou and management of " root steamers," (as they are called by the Complete Gra- zier,) there are some things worth attention, which we have yet to notice. " If water be heated in a close vessel no steam will he formed ; if the steam escape by a small hole there will be lesa foraied than if the whole surface of the water were uncovered."* It follows that, other things being equal, shallow vessels, or ves- sels about half full, exposing large surfaces of the wa- ter in proportion to its quantity, from wiiich the steam may ascend, will afford the most steam wilh a given quantity of iitat applied. Allowing that one gallon of water will produce 1200 gallons of f team, it would be easy to calculate the ex- act q'lantity of water necessary to boil in order to fjll with steam the vessels in which the food is cooked, were it not that the following circumstances are to be taken into consideration. Steam will be condensed with greater or less rapidity in proportion to the tem- perature of the atmosphere, and the temperature, the solidity, the dryness or wetness of the feed which it operates upon. Besides if the whole apparatus is made perfectly tight, a safely ralrc will become necessary, through which some of the steam will make its escape ; and the exact quantity of the fugitive steam cannot be calculated. If the vessel in which the food is prepar- ed is either open at top (as is common when a fit e pail kettle and a hogshtad placed over it is used,) or is covered only by a thick coarse cloth (as recommemled by the Complete Gr.azier,) a considerable quantily of steam will be wasted. But though, perhaps, no pre- cise data can be given for generating or gradualiug the exact quantity of steam necessary for given purposes, as relates to cooking food for cattle, we believe there is commonly more water boiled, and of course more fuel used in steaming solid food than is necessary. Accurate experiments on this subject, and their results carefully recorded, would undoubtedly prove useful. Steam may likewise be very profitably used in pre- paring liquid messes for cattle, as well as in warming vats for dyers, tanners, paper-makers, itc. &c. Many attempts have been made to heat liquids by stiani in- troduced into them, which have generally failed, in consequence of its not being known, or not adverted to by those who have attempted the process, that fluids are non-cundaclnrs of heat., and consequently that heat cannot be made to descend in them. It is therefore necessary that the tube, which conveys the hot steam, jVichohon^s Chcmisfry. should open into the lovesl part of the vessel, ^\luch contains the liquid to be heated. We shall abridge from Count Uumfjrd's Essays such directions as w ill enable any workm.iu of ordinary sagacity to effect this purpose. To succeed in he.ating liquids by steam, it is neces- sary, not only that the steam should enter the liquid at the bottom of the vessel which contains it, but also that it sliould enter coming from abovi. The steam tube should be in a vertical position, and the steam should descend through it pre vious to its entering the vessel, and mixing with the liquid which it is to heat ; otherwi-se this liquid will be' in danger of being forced back into the boiler by this opening : for the hot steam being stiddt nly comiensed on coming into contact wilh the cold liquid, a vacuum will necessarily be formed in the end of the tube ; into which vacuum, the liquid in the vessel, pressed by the whole weight of the in- cumbent atmosphere, will rush with great force, and with a loud noise ; but if this tube be placed in a ver- tical position, and if it be made to rise to the height of six or seven feet, the liquid, which is thus forced into its lower end will not have time to rise to that height before it is met by steam and obliged to rctuin back into the vessel. There will be no dilBculty in arrang- ing the apparatus in such a manner as efl'ectually to previ nt the liquid to be heated from being forced back into the steam-boiler ; anel when this is done, and som.c other necessary precautions to prevent accidents are take n, steam may be employed with great advantage for healing liquids ; and for keeping them hot, in a va- riety of cases, in whicli fire, applied immediately to the bottoms of the containing vessels is now used. The boilers intended to be heated in this manner may be placed in any part of a room, at any distance from the fire, and in situations in which they may be approached freely on every side. They may be surrounded with • wood, or constructed entirely with wood. The tubes by which the steam is brought from the principal boil- er (which tubes may be conveniently sii pended just below the ceiling of the room) may in like manner, be covered, so as almost entirely to prevent all loss of heal by the surfaces of them ; and this to whatever distance they may be made to extend. In suspending these steam tubes, care must, howev- er, be taken to lay them in a situation not perfectli/ horizontal under (be ceiling, but to incline them a small angle, making them rise gradually from their junction with the top of a large vertical steam-tube, connecting them with the steam boiler, (JUite to their furthest extremities ; for, when these tubes are so plac- ed, it is evident that all the water formed in them, in consequence of the condensation of the steam in its passage thiough them, will run backwards, and fall into the beiiler, instead of accumulating iu them, and obstructing the passage of the steam, which it would not fall to do were there any considerable bends or waviugs, upwards and dowiiwards, in these tubes, or of running forward and descending wilh steam into the vessels containing the liquids to be heated, which would happen if the tubes inclined rfo7."»ler/)Y/.p, instead of inclining upwards, as they recede from the boiler. Tlio steam tube may eithc-r descend within the ves- sel to which it belongs or on the outside of it, as shall be found most convenient. If it comes down on the outside of the vessel, it must enter it at its bottom, by a short horizontal bend ; and its junction with the bot- tom of the vessel must be well secured to prevent leakage. When several steam tubes, belonging to diflVrenl containing vessels, are connected with the same Iiori- zontal steam conductor, the upper end of each of thesi tubes, instead of bting simply attached .by solderinj iNEW ENGLAND FARMER. 39 to the rt.iilir tide of the condiic'.or, cuist cuter hI leSEt one inch within the cavity of it ; otherwise tha wat( v resnlling- from a condensation ol a part of the steam, in the conductor by the cohl air wliich surrounds it, ii> Etcad of fuiding its way barli i;ilo the steam boik r, will descend tlirough the slcani tubes, and mix with the liquids ui the vessels below ; but when the open ends of these tubes project upwards within the steam con- ductor, though it be but to a small height above the level of its under side, it is evident that this accident cannot happen. In order that the ends of the sttain tubes may projv'Ct upwards within the horizontal con- ductor, the diameters of the former must be considera- liiy less than the diameter of the latter. As it is essential that the steam employed in heating ii (uids, in tlie manner before described, should enter the conlaininar vessel at, or very near its bottom, it is tvident that thif steam must be sulBciently strong or elastic to overcome, not only the pressure of the atmos- phere, but also the additional pressure of the superiu- eumbent liquid in the vessel ; the steam boiler, must, therefore, be made strong enough to confme the steam, when its elasticity is so much uicreased by means of additional heat, as to enable it to overcome that resist- ance. This increase of the elastic force of the steam need not, however, in any case, exceed a pressure of five or six pounds upon a square inch of the boiler, or one third pari, or one half\ of an atmosphere. In this and in all other cases, where steam is used as ,a vehicle for conveying heat from one place to another it is indispensably necessary to provide saftty valres of tww kinds ; the one for letting a part of tiie steam es- cape, when, on the fire being suddenly increased, the steam becomes so strong as to expose ttae boiler to the dangc-r of being burst by it ; — the other for admitting air into the boiler, when, in consequence of the dimi- nution of Uie heat, the steam in the boiler is conden- sed, and a vacuum is formed in it ; and when, without this valve there would be danger, either of ha^'ing the sides of the boiler crushed, and forced inwards by the pressure of the atmosphere, or of having the liquid in the containing vessels forced upwards into the horizon- tal steam conductors, and from thence into the steam boiler. Count Rumford proceeds to shew that the principles above described had been carried into effect upon a very large scale, by Messrs. Gott and Company, at Leeds. The dyeing house of Messrs. Gott and Company is very spacious, and contains a great number of coppers of different sizes, some of which contain xipward of 1800 gallons, and they are all heated by steam from one steam boiler. One of the largest of these coppers, containing upwards of 1800 gallons, when filled with cold water from the cistern, requires no more than half an hour to heat it till it actually boils .' By the greatest fire that could be made under such a copper, with coals, it would hardly be possible to make it boil in less than an hour. Common wooden tubs may be sub- stituted for coppers, for retaining vessels, or vessels in which the food is cooked. The foregoing may give our readers some idea of the mode of heating liquids by steam. Tliose, however, who would wish to construct an apparatus for boiling liquids by steam, would do well to consult Count Rum- ford's Essays, which may be found in the Boston .4th- cneum. We would here observe that what we have recom- mended and in part described in this essay does not rest on theory, nor speculations not tested and war- ranted by actual and beneficial practice. This v.e en- deavored to shew in the brginni-ig of our essay, (p. 23) i^d to oiakeit still more evident, we shall add to this .11 tide a fev/ facts derived chielly from .Mr. Smith's .iddiess to the Maryland .Agricultural Society. " .Mr. ^Villiam Bean, of the city of Eallimo.'-e, the constructor of my apparatus, has stated to me that he can build such as mine at a cost from GO to £00 dolls. A boiler of the lowest price, containing i^O gallons, would be sufficient to cook food f.ir the stock of mo.-t farms in our country, 'i he capacity of my boiler is 100 gallons. It has enabled my people for some time to cook every day, for more than one hundred head of stock, nourL'^hing food, consisting of cut hay or straw, or corn tops and blades, or corn husks mixed with meal produced from the corn and cob ground together, or with other meal and a due proportion of water. When this food is intended for cows in milk, as much water is used as will serve to give it the liquid con- sistence of what is called a wash ; but when it is pre- pared for dry cattle or for horses, so much water only is applied as is used ia the common feed of chopped rye and cut straw. ^* Clover Iiay, corn tops, blades and husks, when steamed, have been found greatly to contribute in the winter season to the improvement of the quality oi the milk, insomuch as, in a great degree, to impart to the butter the yellow color and delicate fiavor, it would have received from the same articles in a green slate. It is, however, proper to premise, that to produce these pleasing effects, tlio clover hay and the corn fodder must be well cured. ^\"ben cut straw has been used, the advantages, though very perceptible, have not, from the dryness o{ the straw, been so strongly com- municated to tlie butter. If the steamed food should not be intended for cows in milk, or for cattle for the butchers, or for working oxen or horses, but lor stock going at large, there is no necessity to mix it with any meal whate^'er. And from the experience I have had I have no hesitation in pronouncing that not only straw and corn fodder, but the very corn stalks, instead of " wasting their svreets on the desert air." may, if well cured and preserved, be converted into nourishing food for the maintenance of stock throughout the whole winter season." » " The richness of the milk, the f.avcr and yellow color of the butter, Afford the most convincing evidence of the excellency of cooked food. And this is confirm- ed by experiments made from time to time, in suspend- ing and resuming the steamed preparations. Besides, under this system, every particle of the hay, of the straw, and of the coarsest offal is consumed. There is no waste ; every thing is eaten with avidity. It would hence appear that the steaming apparatus, converting as it does all vegetable matter whatever, coarse as well as fine, into the greatest quantity of nutriment, aflbrds the united benefits of nutrition and economy. And in this country, where so little green food is raised for the maintenance of cattle in the winter, the steaming of straw and corn fodder combines incalculable advan- tages. Besides, it sho\Jd ever be kept in mind that, in the feeding of animals, the provender ought to have bulk as well as nutriment. A certain distention of the stomach is requisite." AEWS FROM EUROPE. London papers to tlie 19th July have been received by the Herald, Capt. Fox, from Liverpool. By these it .appears that Madrid was in extreme agitation from the 1st to the dth of July. On the 6th at night, one of the battalions of the revolted troops made a forceable entry into the cili". They entered the avenues lead- ing to the square at day light, and commenced a vig- orous fire on the constitutional troops, or militia. The latter defended themselves successfully. At six in the morning. Gen. Morillo ordered a piece of artillery to be placed in the main street to prevent the nrtreat of the guards in that direction, the militia continued to fire upon them, and the mutineers, being repulsed on every side, withdrew to the palace, where they were received and welcomed by some persons of rank. They then offered to enter into negotiations, but notwith- standing their offer, subsequently attacked some of the miiitia, but were again repulsed. Some other events took pLace. whose details are of little importance. On the r.t'.i, all the remaining mutineers surrendered, and the Bishop, in presence of the militia, performed a sol- emn mass in honor of the triumph. -V Paris paper of the loth ult. states that " a meet- ing of the Foreign Ministers has been held at Madrid, to sign a decl-.raliou relativ* to the events in that cap- ital. Mr. Forsyih, the American minister, lefused to sign it, as totally tutrue ; assertirg that the loval ad^ hirents to Ferdii;;;nd were his greatest entmif's, and that the fortes, Riego, ^c. were liis best fri< nds. It is added that eventually all the foreign ministers, ex- cept the Austrian, agreed v.ith Mr. Forsyth. LoKDO.v, July 19.— /ri);.or/cn/._Extratt of a private letter received this morning from I'aris, dated Jlcnriay evening last :— " The French government have ju^t concluded a contract for 10,000 horses for the artille- ry, fcc. All lhc Turks. The petition was ordered to be printed. HARVARD V.VIFERSITY. The annual commencement at this ancient seminary took place on Wednesday. His Excellency the Gov- ernor, with the other State Authorities, was escorted from this city to Cambridge, in the morning, by the corps of Ca\ airy under Capt. Piichardson. A proces- sion was then formed, consisting of the Government of the University, and their invited guests, which pro- ceeded to the meeting-house, where the literary exer- cises commenced at half past ten o'clock, to a very crowded and discriminating audience. Among other distinguished persons, we were gratified to see the Rev. President Ilolle-y, of tl e Transylvania College, of the audience on this interesting occasion. After the usual exercises, the Govermnent, with their guests, the Alumni of this and other similar institutions, repaired to the Hall, partook of a generous repast, and conclud- ed the day with their accustomed festivity. The degree of A. B. was conferred on fifty-nine young gentlemen. — Gaztlle. New York, .August 27. Although the last reports of the Board of Health are not of a nature to create new alarm, yet the panic stil continues, and is extending in the lower part of the city. This is however, natuial. The alarm is more conta- gious than the fever ; the stoutest heart is ajipalled by seeing his neighbors fleeing from their abodes, and the only relief is to follow them. Broadway, and the other great Avenues to the upper part of the town and Green- wich, exhibited yesterday a continued throng of carts, laden with merchandize from the warehouses below. It has already become a scene of bustle and business at the new locations. The Banks began to move yesterday morning, and we understand, are all now established at Greenwich and Broadway, excepting the JIanhattan, which is at their building in the Bowery, near the junction of Broadway. This is a great calamity to New York, but it is hoped, will be borne with fortitude. On the 24lh inst. the President issued his Proclama- tion opening the ports of the United States to British vessels from all the British Colonial Ports at which our vessels are admitted — and on reciprocal conditions, as regards the vessels, proportion of mariners, and na» tureof the cargo. — Palladmn. 10 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. FOR TUi: A'F.W ENCLA.VD FAR31ER. THE RICH MAN AXD THE POOR BOY. A certain lad, who was a iva; complete Whom even a yankee pedlar could not cheat, Full of finesse, and paltry cunning tricks, As rogues who shine in party politic?, Oucc met a coxcomb with less brains than cash, THio therefore undertook to cut a dash By dint of money, having nought beside To form the underpinning of his pride. " May't please your honor, sir," the urchin said, " Give me two cents to buy some ginger-bread." " I give you cents! — you little vile clod-hopprr, " Two kicks I'll give you, sooner than one copper. " Give you two cents! — that would indeed be funny, " You stand in need o( manntrs more than monry,"' " Sir," said the lad, " I ask your honor's pardon. " My case you must acknowledge is a hard one ; " For neither cash nor manners / ean boast of, " 1 therefore ask'd for what ijuii had the most of." FOR THE SEW F.NGI.AKD FARMER. THE SCHOLAR WHO LOST HIS KEY-HOLE. A scholar, once, who had been drinking till he Was quite impertinent and somewhat silly, Came reeling home 'twixt twelve and one at niglit, Fumbling his way to bed without a light. But bellows out as loud as he could roar, " Somt rogut has stoVn Iht l,i i/-holc lo my door .'" From the American Daily Advertiser. Extract of a letter from an American gentleman in Smyrna, dated 21th May last, to hi.i friend in Philadelphia. " Our situation in this conntry continues to be very distrcssiniij, and our t'utnrc prospects most nncert;(in. Notwithstanding- the strong hopes that now exist, that a war with Russia will not take place, I must confess, I cannot much flatter myself with that hope. The Turks, by their conduct, will lorce Kussia, if not eventually all the Christian powers, to declare war asfainst them. The Island of Scio, containing- a popula- tion of about one hundred and fifty thousand, has been taken by the Turks. This island wa« by far the richest of any of the Archipelago. The Turk*, on their appearance, held out pro- mises of pardon ; they met with scarcely any resistance, still all the men have been killed, and the women and children made slaves, and daily pass through this ]>laco, on their way to different parts of Asia. To behold a young lady of respectable family, brought up in all the ease of alUuence, a slave to some Turkish IJoor, is most distressing. Other scenes, far worse, we arc obliged to see and hear of daily. Strict or- ders are given tc prevent any of Ihese slaves from being sold to any Christian ; slill, howev- er, a few, very fow, are saved in this way, at a great expense. " The Turkish licet and the Greeks are now in presence of each other; the force of the lat- ter is very inferior lo the former, still they do not venture to attack them. The Greeks wail to find them at anchor, with the hopes of burn- ing them ; should they succeed, we may expect great disturbances here.'" About GO blacks were convicted at Charles- ton, for being concerned in the late conspiracy, .'j4 of whom were executed, and the rest sen- tenced to be transported. From the Baltimore I'atriol of August 14. DROUGHT. The northern and western parts of Maryland, and Ihe adjacent parts of Pennsylvania, have suffered from a drought tliis season to a de- gree, unprecedented within the memory of the oldest persons living, hi York, (Peni^) no rains of consequence had taken place on the llith inst. from the preceding 21st of February, the time of the fresh — and for the la=t two months, there had not been a shower. Not one mill out often could grind at all, and the few that could, were not able to supply the dom ind. Farmers have been obliged to go twenty miles, to get as much ground as woidd supporl their families. The Vork paper seriously stales, ibat a few v.-ecks more of dry weather, would compel the inhabi- tants to resort to Baltimore for flour I ! The summer crop.s have almost altogether failed. — " Some fields will not yield a grain of Corn, and the best of them not more than a few bushels to the acre." \'erbal reports and letters confirm these statements, and in fact, give even more gloomy views of the state of the crops and the streams in the adjacent part of our state. The York Gazette says, " we hoar daily of springs that were considered never-failing, disap- pearing, and the people, like the thirsty throng of Israel, have to go miles in quest of water to sustain themselves." Although nothing like the distress alluded to, has been experienced in Baltimore and its vicini- ty, the season has been of late very dry. Y es- terday the dried plains received partial refresh- ment from timely showers, which have caused a perceptible difference in the atmosphere. CHOICr. OF A WIFE. As notwithstanding all that wit, or malice, or pride, or prudence, will be able to suggest, men and women must at last pass their lives togeth- er; I have never, therefore, thought those wri- ters friends to human happiness, who endeavor to excite in either sex a general contempt or suspicion of the other. To persuade those who arc entering the world, and looking all abroad for a suitable associate, that all are etpially vi- cious, or equally ridiculous; that they who "trust arc certainly betrayed, and they who esteem are always disappointed, is not to awaken judg- ment, but to inflame temerity. Without hope there can be no caution. Those who are con- vinced that no reason for preference can be found, will never harass their thoughts with doulil and deliberation ; they will resolve, since they are doomed to misery, that no needless anxiety shall disturb their quiet, they will plunge at hazard into the crowd, and snatch the first hand that shall be held towards them. That the world is over-run with vice cannot be de- nied ; but vice, however predominant, has not yet gained unlimited dominion. Therefore, those who undertake to initiate the young ami ignorant in the knowledge of life, should be careful to inculcate the possibility of virtue and happiness, and to encourage endeavors by pros- pects of success.— Jo/uiii'o»i. From a Philadelphia Paper of August 17. We were yesterday highly gratified with the sight of a man walking on the water by the help of the life preserver. He jumped boldly into the middle of the Delaware, and made his w-ay ag- ainst the tide with apparently but little exertion. The length of time which it took to put on and adjust tl>e dross, struck most of those present as a serious objeetion, but we learn that ihis incon- venience will be remedied in anew dress vi-bich the inventor is now preparing; and we have no doubt tliat the invention inay prove useful in cases of shipwreck near land, where, not unfre- qucnlly, it only one can escape to shore, meant ma}' be obtained of saving the whole crew. President Adams has recently given in imme- diate possession to his native town, Quincy, near- ly two hundred acres of land, containing in a part of it an inexhaustible quarry of stone for buil- ding houses; the whole ]irocceds to be appropri- ated to religious and literary purposes from gen- eration to generation. He has also given to the lovvn his whole library consisting ol' highly val- ui'.ble books, in various languages. This has al- ready come into possession of the town. Portsmouth Journal. Aa eminent Physician, who was acquainted with the dangerous effects of Lead on the hu- man constitulion, recommended those who re- ceived their su])ply of water through Leaden Pipes., to have the water which had been stand- ing in the pipes through the night, drawn oif every morning, before they drav,- for the use of their families. There is a dear and precious period in the life of man, which, brief as sweet, is best ap- preciated in recollection ; when but to exist i* to enjoy ; when the rapid pulse throbs wildly with the vague delight which fills the careless heart, and when it may be truly said, that noth- ing is, but what is not. There is not the greatest man living but may stand in need of the meanest, as much as the meanest does of him. When the heart is deeply involved, every sense allies itself to its feelings, and the eye beholds no object, and the ear receives no sound, which, in the first impression, awakens not the master pulse of emotion. Pielations take the greatest liberties, and give the least assistance. If a stranger cannot help us with his purse, he will not insult us with his comments; but with relations, it mostly happens, that they are the veriest misers with regard to their property, but perfect prodigals in the arti- cle of advice. PRONf.NCIATIO.V. Sir David Dundas spoke in Parliament witlr a broad Scotch accent. " I say, Mr. Speaker," said he upon one occasion, " it is not in the poor [power] of this house to do so." " What," Slid a country member, " does the advocate of Scotland mean by talking of the poor of this hoijse ?" '• He means, I suppose," said Mr. F,. •• the forty-five Scotch members." A person having asked his physician how- much daily food was required to nourish and support the body, the physician replied, " One" jiound of Ibod will support m;in ; should he take- more; the man must support the Ibod." iril * ■^ NEW ENGLAND FARMER. Published every Saturday, by THOMAS W. SHEPARU, Hogers' liiiilding, Congress Street, Boston ; at $-2,50 per aim. in advance, or $3,00 at the close of the year. \ OL. I. BOSTON, SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 1822. No. 6. At (he sug:grstion of a friend, but in perfect accord- n. ' with our own views, we this day commence tlie r-pnblication of the foUowin;^ pamphlet, which we li ili continue, from time to time, till completed. Al- -h not designed particularly for this section of the -1, it is, for the most part, as well adapted to New Old as to New York ; and we think its contents .it fail to be interesting to that cla?s in the com- nunity, who have most leisure to read, and may be xpected lo derive mo.=t profit from reading. Writings ike the following have a tendency to make the most iseful pursuits the most fashionable, and may perhaps urn the attention of many young men of family and brtune lo almost the only honorable vocation, which s not already thronged and crowded to a degree which eaves but little chance of success to new competitors. "^onsidcrntions on the necessity of ettablLliiua an ,'lgricultural College^ and liavitig more of the children of Zi-caltky citizens educated for the profession of fanning. Albany' : Wcbsters &. Skinners, pp. -1'2. The purpose of the following observations i.< o recommend an institution for the education if agriculturists, or, in more familiar language, 0 teach the bu.siness of farming. The necessity of such an institution is the irst thing that will be required to be shewn I efore advocates for it can be expected, and his I think will appear in a convincing manner 7om the following considerations. There are now thousands of wealthy citizens 1 this state who do not know what to do with leir sons. In the tirst place, without any de- ■rminale object in view, they give them a lib- ral education, or rather, they send them for >ur years to a cohege to obtain the reputation r having a graduate's diploma, and so much istruction in the dead languages and the ordi- iry sciences as they are compelled or dispos- J to attend to ; after that there are only three rofessions from which ordinarily they are to loose their means of living and rising into )nsequence — la-s.\ physic and divinity ; but so reat arc the numbers of young gentlemen des- ned for those professions, that their prospects •e truly dismal ; but what other provision can eir fathers make for them ? Turn them to me mechanic employment ? that is consider- 1 too degrading — To manufacturing? it has en tried and proved ruinous — To mercantile isiness? that too is overstocked — To the armv navy ? there is little room there, and many ■asons against it — To farming ? nothing, it I's id, can be made by it. In most European countries, the manufactur- g department affords a vast opening for rcs- ;clab!c enterprise, and gives employment to illions. Its business can scarcely be overdone. it arc found some of the most" important and fluential men of the nation to which they bc- ng. In respectability, wealth and usefulness. w in other departments excel them. Hither en, without offence to the most lastidious ide, may the oflspring of families of ev. t\ nk be directed for employment. To us this ppartment may in some sense be said to be K'solutely shut, a circuBslancc whicli most uia- terialij' narrows the field of profitable and hon- orable pursuit. With us so few arc the chan- nels of what is esteemed exclusively reputable business, by the proud classes of society, that a multiludo, too great I'or their capacities, rushes into them at once. Happily for the agricultural department, it has, among all the capricious and absurd modifications and revolutions of nations, remained exeinpt from dishonorable imputa- tion ; but Still it is guarded by a terrific phan- tom, which threatens ol).?curity and poverty to those who shall attempt to enter it, still repeat- ing, that by fanning nothing is to be inctdc. That nothing is to be made by t'arming, how- ever, is an opinion easy to be related, and that will presently be done ; in the mean while, some further preliminary observations are to be made. There are no entailed estates in our country : and there are very few, however enormous, that may not be dissipated by the immediate descen- dants of those who have acquired tlieni. It may therefore he said, with little qualification, that every person, whatever ma3' be his patrimony, must calculate on being the arbiter of his own fortune. As many young men are now brought up in opulent families, the inevitable conse- quence will be that they, excepting such as may fortunately escape the effects of their education, must eventually sink out of siight from the re- spectable part of the community. In the mean time the descendants of the industrious mechan- ics, following the lessons and examples of their fathers, together with those extraordinary gen- iuses, that not unfrequently rise from the man- sions of obscurity, will by their native powers •and unsiibduable energies, mount to the highest eminences, comnuind the wealth, and rule the destinies of their country. It is melancholy to look back and see how many families ol high repute, have, merely by fostering a despicable, inert, family pride, and disdaining such occupa- tions for their children as \vere only suited to their talents, and abandoning them to their way- ward inclinations, become extciTninaledfrom the ranks in which they formerly stood. And it is pitiable, truly pitiable, to see, as any one ip every section of the country may see, by look- ing not far about him, a family raised to opu- lence and character by the genius, enterprise and industry of its head, exhibiting, from the same cause, sure and dismal presages of its spee- dily submerging far below the level of its pre- sent stand in society. — Who cannot point to some such in which not one of its branches can be selected with the least prospect of a survi- ving reputation distinguished from that of the common mass of mankind, after the head of il shall have ceased to uphold it? And hoiv is this to be accounted for? By that same pernicious pride and most culpable tenderness, which for- bid persons, elevated by their circumstances but a little above the common level, to subject their children to that severe discipline which is indispensably necessary to prepare them t'ov such callings, no matter which, as arc indicated by their capacities and the natural bent of their dispositions. Such persons do to their sons the office of the angel of ['ar^dise, in guarding, a- I gainst their entrance, the only place where hap- piness for them is to be found. Nor can it es- ^ cape observation, that to the neglect of early I and systematic religious and moral instruction, can evidently he traced the annihilation of fami- I lies once holding conspicuous stations in the community. It may here be proper also to make some re- marks on the notion which is generally enter- tained of the hardships, sometimes called cruel- tics, of discipline. The discipline of young ])er- sons is nolliiiig more than compelling them to do what they ought to do, and must do, to c.«cape a comparatively ignominious life, but what they arc naturally unwilling to do, and by proper means to impress on them the habit of" doing it Tills in the operation may not be pleasant to the patient, but the habit once induced will be- come the source of his greatest enjoyments As some confirmation of tlie truth of this re- mark, I have heard persons, who had in their earlier age passed tlirough a course of the se- verest discipline, animadvert on it with the highest satisihclion ; and w ith recollections of gratitude to their, once considered cruel, mas- ters, ascribe (o it all the consequence they had acquired in life. On the contrary, I have heard bitter upbraidings from those who have in after life wofully experienced the effect of its not having been enforced by those who had the control of them in the days of their infancy and youth. I believe every reader of this will, from his own experience, be ready to testify to the just- ness of this remark. For myself I can truly say, that there is no hardship which I have suffered to prepare mc tor the duties of life, nor any which I have endured in the prosecution of them, \vhich I now regret. If 1 have any one thing more tlian others to regret, in my recol- lections of the past, it is, that stronger injunc- tions have not been enforced, or that a greater self-control, and a course of more scrupulous and assiduous performance of duties have not l^een a-^sumed. The pains of additional labor would have been abundantly compensated by the feelings of self-applause, which a retrospec- uon would afford, and the satisfaction yielded liy a consciousness of powers better matured for actions more extensively useful. On this topic I will make one other remark which, as to its importance and truth, I recom- mend fo the serious and dcliberafe consideratioa of those wealthy parents, v.hose anxieties to pro- vide for the happiness of their children, render them incapable of attending to the plainest dic- tates of reason and the most impressive lessons of experience. A youth supplied v/ith cash lo the amount of his wishes, to he employed for his pleasures in such ways as his undisciplined inclinations may lead him into, and which will most probably be to di>>ipated company, gambling houses, and the resorts of obscenity and intemperance, will enjoy much less real happiness than an apprentice un- der the strictest master of a mechanic art. Be- sides, such a youth must expect ultimalely to find the apprentice of the mechanic, and many a lar- mer"5 son, infinitely his superior in the estimation 42 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. comforts ; and il he has any reflection, he will look back with hitter but unavailina: regret on the cruel indulg-cnce of his parents. Better for hiin would it have been if he had been the oflfspring of poverty, or, as is sometimes the melancholy I'act, better that he never had been born. Hut .should he, by a happy-constitution, or a fortu- nate concurrence of circnm~tances, be kept from the paths of dishonor and vice, still tlie chance in great that his pursuits will be al'ter frivolous objects, and that his character through life will be marked with the stamp of insignificance. To such a doom do many of our most wealthy and respectable citizens deliberately devote their offspring. Cruel parents! Neglecting to bring up a son to any business, trade or profes- sion, whatever may be the rank or condition of the parent, is a crime of the deepest die — it is next to munler — It is the same thing as cut- ling off from society one of its members, whose usefulness, if a due discharge of parental duty had not been omitted, might have been cminent- Jy great — It is more — It is letting loose on soci- ety one, who, as he has not been taught to do any thing useful, must of necessity do miscliief, for inaction is unnatural. If his constitutional powers, temper and disposition happen fortun- ately to be feeble, mild and spiritless, he may be comparatively harmless. But the greater his powers, the more ardent his temper, the more perverse his disposition, and the more in- flated his pride, and these commonly go together, the greater is the evil to be apprehended tVom him — It is a parent's devoting his child to that unhappy existence, which is the inevitable lot of all who are not put into the road of useful em- ployment, and often it happens that it is also consigning him to ignominy, coupled with every calamity of life in its most terrible form — It is a crime of the worst kind against the community — It is one of the most cruel curses that a fa- ther can intlict on a son.* Let the biographies of eminent men be con- .sultcd, and it will be seen, that, superadded to the ordinary severities of their instructers or masters, their distinction is to be chiefly ascrib- ed to self-i7iiposed severities, deliberately adopt- ed and perseveringly observed, till they have riviited the habits that gave the complexion of their fortunes and determined their destinies. Such men have in their education and subse- quent pursuits submitted themselves to priva- tions and toils compared with which the ap- prenticeship and labors of the most active iar- mer may be said to be but of trifling amount. Without such self-imposed discipline, Franklin would not have risen above the standing of an ordinary printer. Washington, whose name is encircled with a halo of glory unparalleled a- mong mortals, would have been confounded with the common planters of Virginia, had he not, from early life, subjecteil himself to a uni- form series of labors and sufferings, both of body niid mind, of which the mo-t industrious farmer or mechanic cannot form an adequate idea. It is nevertheless true, however, that the innate greatness of such men gives them a sublimity of feelinjj that makes their labors and sufferings comparatively light. And so will it be with all who undertake a profession with that exalted enthusiasm which is not to be daunted, nor chilled for a moment, by prospects of the great- est obstacles, but, ever contident of victory, will encounter them with the utmost prompitude and alacrity, however formidable and appalling their character or appearances may be. The chief difference between the noble and ignoble of the human race is this : The one, after liaving obtained a distinct view of his du- ties, and the necessary means for attaining a noble end, prescribes to himself a conduct for accomplishing his purposes from which he will never deviate, whatever may be the tempta- tions or discouragements to induce him to re- linquish it or to relax in his efforts. The other will, on the appearance of every little difficulty, shrink into himself like a snail, or sink into a helpless state of despondency. Read the choice of Hercules when addressed by Fame and Pleasure, personified as deities. Had he been intimidated by the labors which the first required of him, or accepted, like many an unfortunate youth of our times, of the prom- ised dalliances of the other, instead of obtaining an immortal fame, he would have sunk, a mis- erable, debauched, effeminate wretch, into the gulf of oblivion. Nothing is more idle or preposterous than the notion that success or celebrity, in any sphere, can be obtained without great exertion and intense application. Reason, at the first glance, pronounces it ioolish ; and every day's observation shows it to be false ; and yet it seems, some parents think that their sons will become soiiicthiiig without any labor to qualify them for it, and as a consequence, their sons dream of distinctions without an effort to attain them. They expect to glide smoothly down stream on the credit of a family name, or a family's riches, or po.ssibly on the reputation of a superior genius, without the necessity of com- batting contrary winds and currents, into a port where accumulatious of wealth ,ind honor await them. Miserable dreams ! fatal delusions ! No : young men must have it impressed on them, as an undeniable self-evident proposition, that they must work, and work hard both in qualifying themselves for the business of their profession, whatever that may be, and in conducting it af- terwards, if they have any ambition to be seen in the ranks of honorable men ; and that all their powers must be strenuously, systematically and perseveringly exerted, if they aim at any thing like superiority. (to be conti.vued.) *■ Tlic author lias been informed, that in a town in this state, not as populous as Albany now is, and not less healthful, out of forty younj; men of llie most re- spectable families whn had reaclicil thi' a2;e of manliood, MASS.\CnUSETTS AGRICULTURAL HEP0SIT0RV AND JOURNAL, FOR JUNE.* (Continued from p. 22.) The next article which merits particular at- tention, is by J. Lowell, Esq. on the culture of Sea Kale, (Crambe Maritima,) and of the Salsa- fy, or Oyster Plant, (Tragopogon.) Mr. Lowell says these plants were introduced some years since, but their use has not become common m this country, although they are both favorites at European tables. '■'• The Sea Kale is a plant of recent intro- duction in Europe. Perhaps its culture cannot be traced back beyond forty years. It is a na- tive of the sea coast of the Southern parts ot England, where it is found growing in sea land. '■• It is very hardy — grows in any tolerable soil — is perennial, and costs not half the labor bestowed on asparagus. It may be raised from the seed or from the root, and fifty plants, oc- cupying a very small space, will supply a single family. In its taste it resembles the Cauliflower The only labor it requires is to cover it witl san private, by the Committee appoint- ed to that duty on Tuesday the 24tli of Septem- ber, and the articles must be entered with the Recording Secretary, and delivered to the per- son appohited to receive them before 1 1 o'clock of the forenoon of that day. These articles, together n:ith whatever is curious and ivonderfiil in fabric, or in the product nf the Earth, 'i'ill be publicly exhibited in the Rooms of the Soci..ty from 9 o'clock, A.M. until 5 o'clock, P.M. of the 25th. The citizens of the county are respect- fully and earnestly solicited to contribute to the interest in the Exhibition, by sending to the Rooms any article in their jiosscssion, which may be worthy of observation, although it may not be of the description advertised for Premi- um. The most faithftil attention will be paid to ' preserve every thing from injury, and to re- store the property to the respective owners. The Rooms for the Exhibition, are furnished to the use of the Society by the liberality of Ma- jor Flagg, and arc the same which were used the last ysar. The Funds of the Society will not admit of further gratuities for the Exhibition of Teams of Cattle from the neighboring towns, but the Committee trust in the public spirit of their fel- low citizens that the high gratification afforded by the fine display made by the good 3'eomanry of Sutton and Shrewsbury, the two last jears, will be renewed at the approaching Cattle Show, by similar Exhibitions from those and other con- veniently situated towns of the county. The respective Committees of Premiums will make their Reports, and the Premiums will be awarded in the Meeting-house, at five o'clock, P. M. Marshals are appointed and will be under oath, to enforce the Rules and Regulations of the Trustees, and to preserve good order on the occasion. God speed the plough, and give success to the Spindle, the Shuttle, and the Loom! Lev: LI^•coL^•, Theophilus \Vheeler, Committee Oliver Fiske, > of Thomas Chamberlain, Jlrrangemenis. Nathan Howe, J Worcester, .'lug. 28, 1822. Mr. Isaiah J. Hendrix, of Bennington, (Vt,) has lately invented, and obtained a patent tor an instrument c,-Ir. Harvey, of Ghi'igow, by using cow urine has cut grass six times in a season, and that the aver.ige of each cutting was fifteen inches in length.'' Should the farmer think that drains, of the above description, would be too expensive, he may obtain some practical hints from the foIlo^ving observations by Sir Humphrey Davy. " When dung is to be preserved for any time, the situation in which it is kept is of impor- tance. It should, if possible, be defended from the sun. To preserve it under sheds wouicl be of great use ; or to make the site of a dunghill on the north side of a wall or building. The floor, or place, on which the dung is heaped, should, if ])Osut whatever was the exact proportion 0 caustic lime, the mortar was made of these ma terials in proportions expressed, and was em ployed for pinning the outside joints of th stone wall of a house situated in a tempestuou climate, and exposed to every blast. It is hot about fourteen years since it was finished, an I do not believe there has fallen to the grount in all that time, one pound weight of th I mortar.* " Had this mortar been employed in buildin a thick wall, whore it would have been suftere to dry slow enough, there seems to be littl reason to doubt but it would in time have be come as firm as the stones of the wall itself " From these considerations we maj' clearl see, that it is impossible to prescribe any d< terminate proportion of sand to lime, as th: must vary according to the nature of the limt and other incidental circumstances, which would be tiresome to enumerate, and whic would form an infinity of exceptions to an general rule. '' But it would seem, we might safely infe that the moilerns in general, rather err in gi.' ing too little sand, than in giving too much. '• It deserves, however, lo be remarked, th; the sand, when naturally in the limo-stone, more intimately blended with the lime thr can ])o.ssibly be ever effected by any mechan cal operation — so that it would be in vain 1 hope to make good mortar artificially from pui lime, with such a small proportion of caust calcareous matter, as may sometimes be effec ed when the lime naturally contains a vei large proportion of sand. But there seems 1 be no doubt that if a much larger proportion ' * fn a note to a serontl edition of this worlc is tl lollowinf^ addition : — "After seven years longer tri; the mortar still proves good and firm, and exhibits 1 appearance of evtx falling;."" NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 45 sand were cmplovcJ, and U' that were iii^ire caretully blended, and expeditiously worked, than is common, the mortar would be mucli more perfect than usual in modern times. '• Tliis 1 have tried experimentally, with the •desired success.'" From the !«. England Journal of Mtdicinc and Surgf ry. Messrs. Editors, If you think a publication of the following facts which I hnve obtained by reading- some late writers upon the subjects to which they re- late, will be of any public utility, you are at liberty to insert them in your valuable Jour- nal. J. B. BROWN. A knowledoje of the diseases of animals in gen- eral, cannot be inferred from a knowledge of the diseases of any one particular species of an- imals. Thus he who is acquainted with The diseases of the horse, would not from that circumstance be able to prescribe correctly for the diseases of quadrupeds generally. The anatomy and pby.siology of animals differ. For example, the , so bomidias.-i is tho liokl. llint itna3;inatioD cannot ^rasp the population sufli- (^icnt-to fill it; and it is only in proportion as that ilourislies will be the snl>s;antial uo.ilth, the ppw;cr, the grandeur, and (he happiness of our country. It is the only solid foundation on v.h'ich our national pro.-[ierity can be erected, and therefore the object, of all others, that ou!;'-ht first and chiefly to engage the attention ot s^vernment. ISo rational sciicmc for its ad- vancement can therefore, consistent with that wisdom ivhich characterises true statesmen, be treated othenvise than with an impartial and a deliberate investia^alion of its merits; and if found eligible, whatever apparent did'ic,;^ties may be in the way, its adoption must and will be eflccted. It is therefore true ]>olicy to drav/ into this field as many as possible, e>iiccially of young men, qualilied tor it by a suitable education, and possessed of a capital sudicient to conduct tlieir affairs to advantage. But how is such an ac- quisition to be eflected ? At present there is no doubt that there are numbers of men of fortune in our states, and many of them large owners of lands, who would wish to fjualify, as firmers, at least some of their sons, and give them suitable establishments as such, but are deterred from it by such consid- erations as the following. Success in every profession or calling depends on a perfect knowledge of it. — Such knovv-ledge cannot be obtained witliout actual ajiplication for its attainment as a student or apprentice for a competent time. — The proi'ession of a iV.rmer, no less than that of a lawyer, a physician, a di- vine, a manullicturer, or of any of the mechanic arts, cannot be iluly acquired without such ap- plication.— For any one to undertake a business w'dh which he is aaacquaiiited, or rather for ■vliich he has not been I'egularly educated, is the height of follj-, as it must in all ]irobability eventually ruin him. — In every kind .of busi- ness there will be sharp competitions, and those who arc the most ajioit and skillul in it, will, with equal means and industry, make the most by it, and those who have not a competent kn<)wledge of it must suflor in its pursuit. IV'ow, how are the sons of v.'ealthy gentle- Tiien of other professions to acquire such knowl- edge of agriculture ? At present there is no other way than to put them out to serve as appren- tices to farmers. To this there arc many ob- jections. From their previous education they will not be disposed to submit to the necessary discipline, and tiieir masters will not have it in their power to enforce it — They mav be associ- iitcd with laborers whose manners will contam- inate theirs — They will probably' be destitute ■>f all society by which they might be stimulated 'o further advances in their previous studies and a progress in refinement — Released from ade- quate restraints, they may be enticed, by j)rotli- gat<' companions, into low-bred jiractices, luid contract disgraceful and ruinous habits. Anil, af- ter all, in the l)cst situations, they could learn dftic more than the business of a farmer in its most ordinary state. For all this there is no remedy but an instilu- lion like lliat which is now proposed, tiie hajipy tendency of which, when once established, will beyond all doubt bo abundantly demonstrated as soon as it shall be completely carried intcj oper- ation. ^ It will make agricultural jmrsuits more fash- ionable, and engage in them (he noblest spring of human activity, the ambition to shine pre- eminent in a sphere of usefulness, of the most brilliant character, and the widest extended magnitude. (to be C0XT!>KEI).) PnEF.1RI.yG FL.'W. Wc esteem mirsclvcf fortunate in beiny pcritiiffed to lay before our readers the following extracts from a correspondence between His Excellency the Governor of Connecticut, and .S. W. Tomeroy, Ksq. of this State. The subject is of ]^reat importance, and if it continues to engage the attention of men of mind, influence, character and standing, its discussion may be the means of giving a new staple to New Kngland of little if ajiy less importance than cotton or tobacco to South- ern sections of the Union. — Ed. N. E. F. Litchfield^ Con. June 2.3, 1822. Df.ar Sii^, I have read with great satisfaction your Essay on the Cultivation of Flax, and consider it as the best I have seen ; what we now want, is a dis- covery of the best means of extracting- the gluT tinous matter, and decomposing the woody fibre, without fixing the color, so as to render the process of bleaching, difficult and expensive. The common process of rotting in the air, we know will never give us good Flax, and the process of water rotting will not be practised by our people generally ; it being a disagreea- ble and unhealthy business to those employed in it, and besides poisonous to our streams of water. The extension of our Flax culture, will, in my opinion, greatly depend upon our success in finding out a mode by which common farmers can extract the gluten, and weaken the woody fibre, so as to render Flax, after being stripped of its seeds, manageable bj' such operations or machines, as can be introduceu-info common use. The practical question is therefore, does (here, or does there not exist in nature, a cheap and common solvent, which can he applied to Flax, in mans, by operative farmers ? Yo\i live in a part of our country which is deeply interested in this question. You, more probably than any person with whom I am ac- quainted, can discover this solvent^ (if it exist,) i and the public attention having been much at- 1 traded to your publication, your recommenda- j tion would have a most extensive and salutary infiuence. I therefore take the liberty to request your particular attention to this interesting subject. I feel confident that the thing desired can he done, but I cannot command the means of making (lie necessary experiments : I can only suggest hints, which may be useful. F'lax may. in mass, be subjected to the action of steam. This may of itself extract the gluti- nous matter, and sufficiently weaken the woody filiro, alter being merelj' dried in the air : Will drosseil, as atferw.inls. A question must hi- ever arise, respecting the expences of ail l processes, compared with the value of the Fhi whea it has been prepared as an article of coi merce. I send you samples of Flax, which, as I ti derstand, were prepared in IlilKS: liundy's M chine. The yellozc is from Flax which had n been rotted ; and the zi'hite is the same artici after being bleached, hy means of soap suds, a weak solution of muriatic acid. \ our friend and obedient servant, OLIVER WOLCOTT. S. W. P0.MEROV, Esq. t fix the color of the plant ? The Flax, before steaming, may be soaked in weak lye, with or without lime, or lime water, and with, or with- out soaj) suds, and urine. Near the coast, salt water, with and without the combinations bet'orc mentioned, may be useful. Any of the chymical processes of bleaching, may, for ought I can perceive, be as well ap- plied to Flax in massj before it is broken and Brighton, 1-ith July, 1822 Dear Sm, Your highly valued favor of 29th ult. ivi samples of Flax; prepared in Hill & Bund_' k) machines, came to hand a few days since. Soon after the publication of the "Essay Flax Husbandry,'' the Hoard of Trustees oft ')" Massachusetts Agricultural Society, proraulgat the offer of liberal rewards for the best expo ments on the preparation of Flax, by boilh steaming, or any other than the usual mode Though the quantity required was only 75 1 and the period for receiving it continued the middle of January, none was exhibite and as the competition was not confined to lo bounds, there is reason to believe that the pi lication of the invention bj' Messrs. Dey & M donald, of a machine that would supersede ( necessity of nny preparation, and its success operat!o,n confidently relied on, had an-efiect paralize all efforts of the kind. From- the best information I was able to c lect, before my Essay went to press, I fel strong conviction that the machines of Hil Bundy could not be made extensively useful this country ; and if their neglect in G. Britr except for employing infirm people and childi in poor houses and cottages, was not sufhcic I have since received intelligence from a sou entitled to confidence, that places the quest beyond. all doubt. An acquaintance with a g tieman of respectability, lately arrived fr England, has furnished interesting facts c nected with the present subject, some of wh it may be well to state belore 1 attempt a re to your queries. This person has been ext sively engaged in the manufacture of linen machinery at Leeds. He says that " spinn by hand is mostly abandoned ; that last y about tzcenty thouscmd spindles were in operat at Leeds and its vicinity, which worked up ; thousand tons of flax for i'abrics, from the coi est sort, to those worth three shillings sterl per yard, at as cheap a rate (calculating len and breadth) as cotton is spun, and i'rom I prepared in the usual way ; — that no confidei is placed in the general utility of Hill & Bunc machines — the price of dressing and bleach by them being sixpence sterling per pound' about equal to the cost of the whole mate as now used ; — that " the advantage of work bleached (lax is of no great importance si the discovery and impro\emenls in (he prod of bleaching with the Oxi muriate of lime, which linen, even from dew rotted fiax, is hi ched nearly as chea]) as cotton, and, if judicifl ly applied, without the least danger of injurj the article;'' — it should also be considered (I cloth made from bleached f}a:i-niust be submi(| » IMI ims mil 11- «i *«[ ill illi)[ til lit ltd It (III iftW w* Seil« *nii ■jlm wrhi mil i I»l NEW ENGLAND FARWEK. a similar jirocess before it is niailfi up ibr larket. Il 1 coinciile ill the opinion yon have expressed, '^l" ir, that " the extension of llax culture nil! "1 reatly depend upon finding ont a iModo hy 'hicli coiiimon fanlicrs can extract the a:!uti- "ous matter and weaken the woody fibre, so as ) render the flax manageable by such opera- oiis or machines as can be introd\iced into "'ommon use,''' and sincerely regret my inability S\y adduce facts in answer to your question, does there or does there not exist in nature a heap and common solvent which can be applied 5 tlax, in mans, by operative farmers?" Fcel- lar, like yourself, confident that " the thing de- ed can be c^oiif," and, alfhoug-h possessed of 0 data derived from experiments, as ym have esired my opinion on the subject 1 sliall sub- ivi lit a few remarks which will pass for what ley may be worth. The candor and liberality manifested b}' Mr. >C!/, and the spirit with which he pursues his bject, are to be admired ; but admitting that is most sanguine expectations will be realized 1 the successful operation of his machines for [, ?parating the fibre or harle from the stem of ic plant, yet the very important process of leansing it from the ■^lu'iiious inaiter remains ) be performed, and the question occurs, "can ot this be done, in the large s'ay, as cheap., and 'ith much less hazard by common farmers with le raw siein, as with the fibres after they are jparated ?" I am inclined to believe that it an. The only objection is the expense and iconvenience of managing a more bulky ani- le ; but will not the dressed flax require equal ibor in dividing it into minute parcels for the leansing process, and uncommon care in btind- ng and drying to prevent immense waste ? By pplying the solvent to the stem, it is reasonable ) suppose that the " woody fibre" would be ■eakened to'such a degree that much less pow- r will be required to separate it, and of course ;ss complicated and expensive machines. It is not probable that the end we are seek- ig will be ejgieiemlij attained without the aid of eat. Steam eveti irom pure water is a most owerful solvent ; and 1 have great faith that /ith a proper menstruutn, it may be success- illy applied by common farmers. I am led fo his conclusion by its operation with a perfectly imple apparatus in 2i:aslnng clothes — by far the reatest and most economical improvement yet iscovered to disarm icnshing day of its terrors. t consists of a pot or boiler., ivith a close cover. Qto which a tin or leaden tube is inserted, and a ub or box with a similar carer. The clothes. fter being wet and a little soap rubbed on the nost soiled parts of them, are laid upon slats or helves in the tub or box, the tube is then con- lected with it, and the boiler nenrly filled with vater mixed with a weak solution of potash or ey from the leach tub, n lire is put under the loiler late in the afternoon, it boils during the ivening and is left simmering till morning, vhen the clothes are taken out; and they must lave been very foul to require any more labor ban rinsing once or twice to make them pcr- ectly clean. Now this process is managed by ■ommon house maids ! What is to prevent them, he wives and daughters of farmers and even armers themselves from attending to a similar )rocess on a larger scale ? I apprehend no (Inn- er from steam, in fixing any stain or color, that may be communicated by the plant. • We will now inquire for a menslruiJtn witfiin' the reach of •• common farmers," ami it will not be necossurj' for the present object to com- bine the bleaching ])rocoss, though it may fol- low in a considerable degree. 1 would here observe that there was an imporlant omission in copying my Essay for the press, in quoting from the transactions of the Swedith Academy, of the application of birch ashes spread between the layers of flax before the salt ica'e/- was turn- ed on for boiling. Should such a process be found beneficial, sea -dealer can be easily nnd cheaply imitated in the interior countr}-. Mr. Dey asserts that the materials he has discovered for cleaning and bleaching flax dres- sed by his machine, "are abundant in eveiT farmer's house." 1 shall be much mistaken in my conjectures if ashes, salt, and perhaps lime, with vegetable acid or sour milk are not the prin- cipal constituents of his secret! The substances used in bleaching will, I be- lieve, either combined or separate, afford the best solvent wilhin our knowledge, for the ob- ject in view ; and acids are considered of pri- j m.iry and indispensable importance ; they Were j formerly produced by the fermentation of r^c iiical or bran- — sour milk was also used as exten- sively as it could be obtained. But it has been | found that a weak solution of sulphuric acid an- swers the same purpose — is more convenient and much cheaper. Oil of vitriol in a highly concentrated state is now manufactured in Bos- ton, and sold at not more than eight cents per pound — one pound of which is said to bj? suih- cieiit to acidulate two hundred gallons of water. It is probable however that live pounds to that quantity of water, if thoroughly mixed, would net injure the material and accelerate the pro- cess. When we reflect upon the rationale of 'he preparation of flax by the usual method of steeping in water, it appears that it is the acid ])roduced by the acetous fermentation that dis- solves the glutinous matter: the mere act of fermentation has no other eflect than to give motion to the lieptid, its has been demonstrated by eminent bleachers in Great Britain when comparing the eflect of sulphuric acid ivifh that produced by fermentation. It if true that by sleeping, the putrid fermenttition which rapidly follows the acetous, hastens the operation and more readily decomposes the woody fibre, but with manifest injury to the material ! Now it requires ten or fourteen da^s to prepare flax by steeping, when doLic in cool weather as it should be ; if this can be eftected in half as many hours with sulphuric acid, even with the expense of heat, may it not be the cheapest solvent ? It should be kept in view, that there is a cellular oil in flax, which an alkaline ley de- stroys ; this is apparent from the harshness of linen yarn tlitit has been boiled in it — the de- composition of this oil may be necessary to the completely bleaching of Jine go()ds, but it is im- portant to retain it for sail cloth, as not only rendering it fofi and pliable, but as a preserva- tive against mildew. The sicam from such ley however, is supposed not to produce that eflect. Whether the oxi-mnriate of lime, the principal agent now used for bleaching, may be success- fully applied as a solvent to the raw stem of flax, can be determined only by experiments ; the materials for forming it are abundant and chciip. A formula 1 met with Kotnc years agd. rc(|uires.GO lbs. &i fnely pou'dercd quicklime au*^. ;50 lbs. of comiricn salt to be mixed with 1 10 gallons 6f water in the receiver; into the dis- tilling ves.sel is put 30 lbs. of salt, v.'ith 30 lbs. o( mar.ganese, which are to be well mixed, and 30 lbs. of oil of vitriol, diluted with the same weight of water, turned on. But I am told thai great improvements have been made of late — that it is prepared in tlio dry way, which ren- ders it conveniently portable, and fs sold to the bleachers at a very cheap rate.* Perhaps the, simple muriate rf lime would an swer the purpose ; in that case the expensi would be much lessened, and the operation so simplifled as to render it convenient to be used by operative farmers. 1 should feel extremel}' happy. Sir, was it iii my power, to institute a course of cxperinuni- agreeably to your suggestions, and which youi partiality supposes me capable of performing ; but a pressure of domestic avocations, togefhej- ^vith preparations for an expected absence from home, of some months continuance in the au- tumn, vvholly preclude siich aitempts. At the same time I beg you to rest assured that I shall always feel r.mbitious, to the extent of my abil- ity, to co-operate ttir tlie promotion of uirai, ECONOMY, with one who hai devoted so great a portion of life for the advancement of the sub- stantial interests of his country. ^Vith respectful and sincere attachment, 1 remain, sir, vour obedient servant, S. W. POMEKOY His Ex'y Ouvr.r. Woicott, Litchfield, "Con. *The substance of tlie moile of prepanug Blcaciiirig Powder, according to as hite an iiilproTenitut as any we liave seen, is as Ibllows : Oxjgenated nuiriatic acid is capable of forming h compound witli calcareous earth, and with the carltis barytes, strdntites, and magnesia, in llie dry way, that is, wilhout these earths being either suspended, or dis- solved in water ; and this is effected merely by bring- ing the oxygenated muriatic gas into contact with these earths in form of lumps, pieces, powder or paste, or into contact with mixtures of them, witli sucli other bodies in the above forms, as do not impede or liiuder their attraction for the acid. It has been found that the oxygenated muriates of lime, and of the earths mentioned above, thus formed, when mixed with wa- ter, possess the power of removing color from linen, cotton, and various otlier veg-etable and animal sub- stances, and have been profitably applied for that pur- pose. See Repertory nfjlrls, vol. xii., p. 1, sec. s^rie.':. If we mistalce not. Sir Humphrey Davy, in one of his lectures has intimated tha' there is danger lest the caustic powers of oxy-muriale of lime should injure the texture of the material to be bleached ; and he therc-iure prelers magnesia as one of the ingredients of bleaching powder to lime. Simple muriate of lime, as recommended by Jlr. Pomeroy, deserves experiment, and ]>erhaps lime slacked with sea water, or salt in solution with water, would be found useful. Care however is necessary not to apply caustic substances of too great strength, and in every case to thoroughly rinse the goods in pure water after every application of a bleaching substance, of the nature above described. £d. N. E. F. Robbing Gardens. — Several indictments and convictions, of boys and youths, have taken ])lace in various parts of the State, for viola- tions of the statute made to prevent depreda- tions upon orchards, gardens and fruit-yards. — Its penalties are very severe, and yet we are glad that a disposition prevails to enforce it. Worcester Spij. 52 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. CATTLE SHOW, EXHIBITION OF MANUFACTURES, AND PLOUGHING MATCir, .it JVorcesier, oh Wednesday, September 25, 1822. The Trustees of the Worcester County Agri- r.uhural Socic!;/, propose to their t'cllow citizens a Cattle Show, PlouT;liing Match, and Exhibi- tion of Manutacliires, at Worce-^itcr, on WED- NESDAY, the 25th day of September next, at 0 o'clock, A. M. — and they have the plca-iirc of offering the following liberal Premiums, much increased in amount from the last year : For the best Bull, uot less than one year old $15 For the next best 10 For the best Bull Calf, from 4 to 12 months old 0 For the next best 4 For the best Milch Cow, not less than three years old, and i'roni a stock of not less than fne Cows kept (ogLthfT 15 For the best Milch Cow, not less than tliree j-ears old, and from a stock of not less than three Cows kept together 10 For the next best Milch Cow, whether kept alone or with others 8 For the best Heifer from 1 to 3 years old past 6 For the next best 5 For the best Heifer Calf from 4 to 12 months eld 5 For the next best ■! For the best pair of Working Oxen, not less than four years old, rej^ard being had to the strength, equality of match, and docility of the catile, as ^11 as to their size and appearance 13 For the next best 12 For the next best > 10 For the next best 5 I'or the best pair of /our years old Steers, not of- fered for work ] 0 For the best jiair of three years old Steers !! For tlie next best 5 For the best pair of two years old Steers 7 i'^or the next best 4 l'"or the best pair oi yearling Steers 5 For the next best 3 I'or the best Ox fitted for slaughter, regard being had to the mode and expeus^of fattening 15 l^or the next best 10 ♦""or the best .Merino Ram, regard being had both to fleece and size 10 For the next best 5 For the best Merino Ewes, npt less than four in number 10 For the next best do. 5 For the best two Merino Wethers 4 For the best lot of mixed Merino Sheep, not less than five in number, either Ewes or W'etliers, regard being had to the tjualily of fleece for the grade 5 for the best Native Ram 5 For the best Native Ewes, not less than four in number 4 For the best Boar, not less than six months old, nor more than two years and six months old 10 For the best Breeding Sow, not less than one vear old ■ '6 For the best weaned Pigs, not less than four in number 4 None of the animals will be entitled to Pre- miums unless they are wholly llie product of the County, oxceplin:^, that with a viev/ to en- vourai^e the introduction of improved Stock, the Trustees will pay the premiums which may be awarded for ftulls, Rams, and' Boars, raised ^yithin the State and brought into the County at least four months befsrc the day of Exhibi- tion, upon receivlna: satisfactory security that they shall be kept lor Tise within the County at least one year next after. In awarding the Premiums upon all Stock, regard will be had to the marmer and expense of raising and keeping-. And the owner will be required to give a satisnictc.y account thereof to the appropriate Committee on the day of Exhibition — a~ it is the intention of the Trus- tees to encourage that Stock, whicli not only may appear best at the Sko-js, but which, in rel- orence U> the cost, is most profitable to the Farmer. The Trustees with a view to the most liber- al encouragement of the Citizens of the Coutity who live remote from the place of Exhibition, propose to increase the rate of compensation for travel to eight cents per mile, to the owners of such animals as obtain premiums, and which are brought or driven more than ten miles, computing tVom the place from wliich the ani- mals come to the place of the Show. No animal for which to any o\vner one pre- mium shall have been awarded, shall be con- sidered a subject for anj' future premium of the Society, exce])t it be for qualities different from those for which the former premium tvas awar- ded. Persons intending to offer aay species of Slock for premium, must give notice thereof, either by letter, post paid, or by personal application to the Recording Secretary, on or before the 21th of SepfombcT, (the day preceding the Show) at 9 o'clock in the evening, requesting him to enter his application, so that Tickets for the Pens may be ready by 8 o'clock the next rrwrning. The difficulty of making ar- rangements for the jtroper accon>modation of the ditferenf species of Stock, without such previous notice, renders a strict enforcement of this rule indispensable — a.id no person will be considered as a competitor, who shall npt. have made such application for entr}', on or before the time above specified. In all cases where the age of animals is men- tioned, the applicant must file his own certifi- cate, or that of some other respectable indivi- dual, who personally knows the fact, that they are of the age for which they are entered, and also that they are tlie product of the County. DOMESTIC MANUFACTURES. To the person or Corporation who shall ixhibit the best double set of Machine Cards $20 The best superfine Broadcloth, dyed in (he Wool, not less than six qiiarters wide, exclusive of the list, and 20 yards in length 15 The best superfine Cassimere, dyed in the wool, not less than three quarters wide, and 20 yards in length 10 The best Carpeting four quarters wide, and not less than 30 yards in length 1 The best Carpeting three quarters wide, and not less than 30 yards in length 10 The best sole Leather not less than 100 lbs. 10 The bi st manufactured Calf-Skins not less than 12 in number 10 The best manufactured Morocco Leather of Goat Skins, not less than six in number C TO THE PERSON WHO SIWLL EXHIBIT OF IlOUSEHOlb MANUFACTURE, The best Woollen Cloth, not less than three quar- ters wide, and 20 yards in length C,','. The next best i The best Flannel not less than 7-8ths wile and 20 yards in lengtli 10 The next best 5 Tlie best Shirting Cloth of linen wirp and tow or cotton filling. 7-8th3 wide and 20 yds. in length, and bleached, fi The next best 3 The best Woollen Coverlid not less than 2 1-2 yards wide 4 The best Linen or tow Diaper five quarters wide ■ and not less than 20 y.ards in length 8 The best Linen or tow Diaper four quarters wide, and not less Ihaa 20 yards in length 5 The best Woollen half stockings for men, not less ti*tu two pairs The best Specimen of Sewing Silk of assorted col- ors, and not less than two pounds in quantity The best Butter not less than 30 lbs. The nest best The next best The best lot of Cheese not less than 100 lbs. of the manufacture of the same person The next best [The specimens of Butter and Cheese must b accompanied with a particular account of th marmer in which the same was made an preserved, and the butter must be exhibitc in plain iinpainted boxes or tubs.] Every article of manufacture offered lor Pr< mium, must be entered with the Rccordin Secretary, and delivered to the person appoin' cd to recei^ e them, before 1 1 o'clock in th forenoon of the day preceding the Exhibitioi And all manufactures, when presented, mus have a private mark, and any public or know mark must be completely concealed, so as nc to be sc^i'- it' there be no driver, both sums for [iloughnui and driver to be awarded to the Plbughman. | First Plough, $10 Third Plough, $r, Ploughman, 5 Ploughman, 3 Driver, 3 Driver, l Second Plough, 8 Fourth Plough, 4 Ploughman, 4 Ploughaian, 2 Driver, 2 As the great object of this part of the Exhi bition is to excite emulation in the rise and con sirtiction of the most important Instrument of Jig- riculture, the Plough, the competitors in the Ploughing Match must own their respective Ploughs and Cattle, and the Ploughman, if he be not the owner, must be a man ciaplovcd or the owner's farm. Those persons who design to become competitors must give notice in writ- ing to the Recording Secretary, on or before the 15th d.xy of September next, that suitable ground may be ol)tained. the proper number ot Lots measured and marked out, and the requi- site arrangements made for the occasion. The Ploughs must be on the ground designated, rea- dy to start together precisely at 9 o'clock, A. M. as this will be the first public business of the day attended to. Such arrangements will be made that the Cattle engaged in the Ploughing Match, and which may also be entered for pre- miums as working oxen, may have opportunity to be well refreshed before they are subjected to examination and trial. Cattle or Ploughs, which have heretofore obtained a premium in the Ploughing Match, will not be entitled aifain to a premium unless for excelling in a higher degree. NEW ENGLAND FARMER. o.> Competitors for Prcmivims of every descrip- tion will be held to a rigid compliance with (lie fores'oing Rules, as well as such other Rulos and Regulations as shall be publisiied by the respective committees of Premiums hereafter to be appointed and the Committee of Arrange- ments for the occasion. In cases where, for want of competition, the claimants upon a literal construction of these proposals might be entitled to premiums, the Trustees shall be at liberty to reject the claim, unless the animal, or manufactured article, is of superior quality and value. No person will be allowed two premiums, as for the Lest and next best of an animal or article of the same description, it being the object of the Trustees to encourage competition, by distribu- ting premiums, as much a^ possible, among the deserving; and no owner of any number of pre- mium animals will be entitled to more than one allowance for travel. From the premiums awarded there will be discounted t'li-enty-fivc per cent, in the payment to those persons who, at the time, are not Mem- bers of the Society ; and no premium will be awarded for animals to any person who, at the time, is not the owner, nor for manufactured articles, unless they ^vere manufactured within the County — and no jnemium will be paid to any person who is not an inhabitant of the Countv. Premiums will be paid within 30 days after they are awarded; but if not demanded uithin four months, they will be considered relinquish- ed, and the amount will be added to the funds of the Society. Levi Lixcoi.n, ~| Bex.tamin Ad.\ms, I LOVETT Petfss, Nathaniel P. Dennv, Daniel Tes^iey, Worcester, April 15, 1822. 7th — Put a small handful of parings in each hill. The quality of the land was equal, not rich, no manure was applied, the rows all came up \vell, and were all hoed and treated alike thro' tiie summer. About the beginning of October 1 had them taken up, and the produce was as follows ; The Ist row yielded 17 lb. 7 oz. 2d do. 22 7 3d do. 10 7 4th do. 14 7 f)th do. 10 11 6th do. 11 00 7th do. 10 00 The hills stood three feet distant each way, whirli makes 4840 in an acre. Allowing a bushel of potatoes to weigh CO lbs. the products of the diflcrent rows would be nearly as follows : 1st row, 350 bushels per acre. 2d row, 450 5th row, 339 3d row, 210 6th row, 222 1 am not a medkal practitioner, and hope to be excused for venturing to .submit this hint to the scientific. A boy darting a random arrow once made it pass through a small ring which practised archers in vain attempted to shoot through. Thus, 1, by a guess, may give a ben- eficial idea, which superior judgments may im- prove upon. H. O^NoTE. — Let the doctrine of animalculai being in the air, receive due consideration. — Iron, Magnesia and Salts, may be in the most transparent water. Air is composed, we know, of fixed portions of hydrogen, azote and oxygen, hut flies, k.c. may exist in it. Animation may be in the minutest objects ; the microscope dis- closes the wonders of our Creator in the small- est degree. 4th row, 307 Tth row, 202 Committee of Premiums- It is evident, from the above statement, that largo potatoes are much better for seed than small ones, and that it is better to cut them than to plant them whole. About the same time I took a quantity of middling larffe potatoes, and cut off the but and top ends from each, and cut the middle pieces into quarters, and planted a row with huts, another row with tops, and the third with mid- dles, and placed live pieces in each hill through- out the whole. I did not weigh nor measure the produce, but found that the middle pieces produced much the largest crop. The produce of the other two rows were about equal ; by which it appears that to reject both ends and plant the middles onlj', will produce much the best crop. J. W. Rijegate, Ft. Sept. 2, 1 822. FOR THE SEW EXGLASD FARMER. From the National lutelligencer. To Medical Gcmlcmen. I have been lately amusing myself with a work published by Mr. J. L. Chabert, at New Orleans, entitled '• Medical reflections on the POTATOES. Having heard many different opinions res- pecting the best method of preparing seed po-i malady vulgarly called Yellow Fever;" to which tatoes for planting, some saying that it is best j he gives the new denomination of Spasmodico to plant large ones whole, others that small | £y,^„ene. or spasmodic burning fever. It ' ones are equally as good, while others say they j fuH of information respecting the symptoms of will produce most to cut them in pieces, with ; this terrible disorder, and of acute remarks on one eye in each piece, or only eyes cut out of j the suggestioas of all prior observers. Mr. large potatoes they say will do well, and lastly | Chabert states, that by numerous dissections, he some affirm that the parings taken olT when j has found that the liver is not affected. The preparing them (or the pot will produce a good j bleeding of the nose and inflammations of the throat, Lc. are the first diagnostics, and after that a delusive case succeeds, and then the black vomit. Q»erf. — Whether animalculas inhaled do not first cause the spasms by inflammation, and whe- ther mortification does not ensue ? Persons not acclimated are the greatest sufferers. I have seen Eiu;opeans, arriving' in Asia, when stung by musquetoes, suffer inflammation in an extra- ordinary manner. May not the same effect be produced by inhaling insects, imperceptible to the naked eye, by the nose and throat ? That putrid matter will produce insects, has been proved by various experiments ; and I have read, in your valuable widely circulated paper, that magnifying glasses have been constructed to discover insects in the lungs of those who have died of consumption. , crop. About the beginning of May, 1821, 1 prepar- ed a small piece of land, on which 1 planted seven rows with four hills in each row, as fol- lows : — 1st Row — One potatoe weighing about 7 oz. in each hill. 2d — One of the same size, cut in four pieces, in each hill. '>d — Three whole potatoes, weighing each 2 oz. in each hill. 4th — Six of the same size cut into quarters, and six quarters placed in eacii hill. -Some middling large potatoes cut into pieces, with one eye in each piece, and five pieces put in each hill. -Cut 24 eyes out of large potatoes, and put six in a hill. jth- •oth- OM CATCHING COLD. As there were few men more attentive lo tracing the cause of natural effects, or more ready and ingenious in accounting for them than Dr. Franklin, his opinions on any such subjects are therel'ore deserving our special attention. Thus, on the subject of catcliing cold, he al- leged, that instead of a cold being contracted by the body's being exposed to some external cause which may stop the insensible perspira- tion, such as cold air blowing partially on some, part of the body, its continuing during some time wet, &.c. a feast, or some excess in eating or drinking will be generally found to have preceded. In confirmation of this opinion, he observed, that those who led temperate lives seldom caught cold, even though their constitu- tions and habits of body might seem little able to withstand the effects of such causes. I was a witness of what 1 thought a singular instance of the truth of this opinion. Upon my mentioning it to a gentleman, who eats no ani- mal food, and drinks no fermented liquor or s])irits, he said he would give it a fair trial. He accordingly, early en the first dewy summer morning, walked among long grass till his feet and legs were perfectly wet, and continued out of doors from 6 till 8, and when he came in to breakfast could not be prevailed upon to have dry shoes and stockings till he returned to dress at noon. No cold ensued, though wet feet are reckoned among the most frequent causes of taking cold. He afterwards thanked me much for freeing him from many restraints founded, as he now experienced, on prejudice. Dr. Franklin remarked, that those who eat no suppers, especially after plentiful dinners, were much less liable lo catch cold, for they thereby avoided adding a quantify of indigested juice with what are, in some degree, in a di- gested state. They who make their supper their principal meal do not suffer by it, because the stomach being pretty empty, an improper mixture of juices does not enter the lacteals. SPO.YT.iA'EOUS COMBUSTIO.r. On Friday afternoon the barn of Mr. George Shute, of -Maiden, containing ten tons of hay, all his farming utensils, and a chaise, was consumed by fire. Mr. S. with anothtr man, was at work in a field near the barn, when the fire burst out ; but nothing could be done lo save it. Tliis is another instance of spontane-i ous combustion, proceeding probably from the too greea or damp state of the hay, as it is almost certain there- had been no fire conveyed to the barn, by any dire; or accidental means. 54 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. >'rom Niles' Register. FLAX Another machine has liCMi invented by Samu- el Davidson, ofHoniulus', N. Y. for dressinEf flax. Its whole cost, ineluding tlie patent right, is • )nly forty dollar.'. Jt hn^ been tried by nviny of the most respectable tarmcrs. They (.itim- ate the saving in the labor at three fourth'-, and the saving in llax at one fifth, compared witii the common mode ; while it leaves the texture of the thread unbroken. By the use ol this machine the process of rof/i/irj may be dispensed with, as it will answer for dressing the flax eith- er with or without rotting. This improvement promises to be extensively usefol — its price is small that every neighbor- hood may easily have a machine. I'hx is an ar- ticle of easy cultivation and great produci. if the jirocess of rotting and usual way of cleaning it can be dispensed wiih, anil must become an im- portant staple to the people of the interior for home u-e, and transport to the seaboard, &,c. A pound of fiax may be carried any given dis- t.incc us readily ris a pound of cofn, pork, 6cc. The cost of transportation will be the same ; but the amount of that cost as to the relative value of the article, will be essentially ditl'ercnt. The soed, too, if crushed and made into oil, will al- ways tiud a ready market, and better pav char- ges fof carriage tiian any sort of provisions that our farmers can raise in the interior. Oil mills may be erected at a .tmall expense, and would yield large profits to their owners, if the supply of seed were abundant, in anj' part of our coun- try west of the mountains. We feel both publicly and personally inter- ested in the cultivation of flax and the use of flaxeu goods — publicly, because it will add much to tlie national prosperity ; privately, because we cannot have good pa^xr without flaxen rags lo make jt of. From the Montreal Gazette of August 31. aghicultural rei-ort for august. The cutting of grain became common from the 10th to the loth of the month; about the 19th the weather was very unfavorable lor ru- ral or harvest aflairs ; very heavy rains with warm growing weather, which lasted some lime, have done considerable damage to Grain lying on the ground (the common way in this coun- try) as it has rendered the straw black, and caused the crop to spring or sprout. If the Canadian farmers would bind and shock their crops as they cut them, like old country farm- ers, it would be a great saving of fodder to them in rainy seasons ; indeed we have had more wet weather this summer than in the throe preceding. Towards the latter end of the montli, we had excellent dry days, with a strong or good breeze which has enabled the farmers to house a great part of their crops, and a few line days will finish the bulk of the harvest. Grass seeds have generally taken well and af- ter gra-ss looks tine. Of Turnips little is heard, but Mangel Wurtzel is much rcconuncudcd l>y all who have raised it ; the quantity on an acre is said to be very great, and it is not suhjrct to be injured by th(; lly or grasshoppers. Cutting Hay on natural wet medows has been attended with much trouHe, and .some very ex- tensive fields arc still uncut, being overflowed with water. Stock of all kinds is in excellent condition ; milch cows are very scarce, bees have thriven well this summer, and it is' a matter of surprise and regret that they are not more generally kept both for the profit they give, and the good example they set before us. Laborers are in abundance, good reapers have been commonly paid from Is. Gd. to Is. lOd. per day. A pair of the beautiful and gigantic nondes- cript KIks. known by the Indians of the Upper Missouri (where they have begn lately discover- ed) by the name of Wajietli, arrived here on iMonday se'n-night on their way to London. These noble animals are the size of the horse, with immense spreading horns; their form th most perfect model of strength and beauty, com- bining the muscular strength of the race hor.sc, with the lightness and agility of the greyhound; are capable, with ease, of drawing a carriage or carrying a person more than twenty miles an hour. They are perfectly domesticated, and of the most amiable and gentle disposition. Their flesh is esteemed the finest of venison; and as the female is on the point of producing young, no doubt is entertained of adding this most noble and interc-tiiig ipiadruped to our stock of do- mestic animals. They will be exhibited for a few days at Stoakes' Kooms, next door to the Athena'um, in Church street. — London paper. NEW ENGLAND FARMER. BO.rrO^.— SATURDAY, SEPT. 14, 1822. TO REAnF.nS, CORRESPONDENTS, IVELL-WISHERS, ADVISERS, &C. &C. Wt have been cmiacntly favored, since the com- mencement of the New England Farmer, with a mul- titude of counsellors, who have from time to lime vol- unteered opinions respecting the course it was best for us to pursue in conducting^ the publication. Bat, it unfortunately so happens that but rarely any two of our monitors agree in their precepts; and as we can- not, at the same moment, move in a great variety of opposite directions, we shall take in good part, what WHS doubtless well meant, but hope to be excused, if we do not exactly conform to rules and regulations, which do not always accord with each other, any bet- ter than with our own views of the subjects to which they relate. Still we are bappy to receivB counsel, though for the reasons above mentioned we cannot al- ways comply with it. Besides, our advisers, surely, do not wish to be oiu' controllers ; and if they will kindly continiu- to shed liglit on our paths, we will spare them the trouble otdincling our fttt. The gentleman who advises us to write a " System ofGeorgicks after the manner of Virgil," borrowing hints from the " elegant works of Darwin," &c. is respectfully informed that if we had talents, we have not time to s])are for such a purpose. A number of years (certainly not less than nine according to Horace) would be rf quisite to complete such a work : and by the time it was finished, a considerable part would probably become obsolete by improvements which are every day unfolding. We believe moreover, that the princii)h s of science, and the details of art, are, gen- erally sjHakiupf, belter given in plain prose tlian in the " linked sweetness" of IJr. Darwin's most mellifluous modulations. For instance/'Dr. Darwin's poetical des- cription of the Steam Engine would hardly serve as a specification to enable a workman to build a machine of the kind ; and should even a greater than Darwin undertake to give versified accounts of many oi the most useful modern improvements in agriculture, niua- ty nine in a hundred of the cultivators of the soil " Would read, and read, then raise their eyes in doubt, " And gravely ask— Proy tchaVs all this about .?" Georgicks, and poetical descriptions of rural occupa- tions and amusements, aie, however, very pretty arti- cles, and we should be glad of an assortment for the benefit oCsome of our readers, who like our correspon- dent alluded to, have taste enough to read and relish such things. Our attention must, however, for the present, be more directed to the wants of the majjy than the tr.=te of a few. A gentleman from Vermont writes to us as follows — ■ " We have tried your receipt for using elder juice [see page 3,] in a large dairy, on two or three cheeses that were much cracked, and from which it was diificult to keep the till .5 that produce skippers. The experiment answers perfectly — the flies do not even approach that part of the pantry. No doubt it will answer other valuabTe purposes." The gentleman who has given us an accouat of his experiments with Seed Potatoes will accept our thank?, and is requested to continue his favors. The articles on " Preparing Flax," in the preceding pages, merit much attention from all who feel an in- terest in developing the natural resources of our coun- try. ^\ e hope new lights will be elicited from actual experiments, whose details and results we should be happy to publish. ON S.iVING AND BIAKINC THE MOST OF MANURE. No soil will always ]'rove productive without ma- nure. Though naturally fertile as the garden of Eden, if it is always giving and never receiving, it will at length become as barren as a desert. Manure then, in farming, is all in all. It is that without which there will soon be " Nothing in the house — nor in the barn neither." Particular spots, like Egypt, and other alluvial or intervale lands, which Are annually overflowed, derive manure from the bountiful hand of nature, and cannot be exhausted by bad husbandry. Some soils likewise are not easily exhausted, and are easily recruited, in consequence of being so organized as to attract from air and water the principles of fertility. But if the soil is naturally barreji it may be madr ftrtile. If land in its natural state be good for nothing but tc holdthe globe together (as some have quaintly expressed it) it may be made abundantly fruitful by being mixed with certain earths, compo.«t.*, dung, &c. together with a judicious rotation of crops. " In the Payes de ^V■aes, in Flanders, sand is cultivated to great perfection. The soil of that district, which was origin- ally a barren white sand, has been converted into a most fertile loam."* This was effected by suitable ap- plications of clay, niarle, vegetable and animal ma- nure, deep ploughing, turning in green crops, &c. The most barren pilch-pine or shrub-oak plains in New England may be rendered fertile by similar processes. And in many instances it is better thus to convert u piece of poor land, which is favorably situated as re- gards government, the state of society, the market, &c. into an excellent farm, than to seek a farm in the wil- derness, where there is neither government, society, nor any of the comforts and enjoyments of civilized life ; and which, with all these disadvantages, cannot be rendered productive without a great deal of labor and expense. The principal agent in converting a barren to a fruitful soil must be manure ; either fossil manure, ' Cede of Agricullurc. NEW ENGLAND FARMER. :i^ (such as the earths, salts aiul alkalies) or animal and vigi'labh; manure, compostd of decayed and decayinof animal and vcgpetable substances. Our observations, at present, will be confined to the latter kind. A controversy has existed lor some years, relative to the degree of fermentation which manure ought to tm- dergo, before it is applied to tlie soil. Some agricul- turists are advocates for long, frtslii or unfermented manure, and others contend that it should never be spread on the field till the fibrous texture of the vege- table matter is entirely broken down, and it becomes perfectly cold, and so soft that it may be easily cut by a s})ade. Sir Humphrey Davy, whose authority, on subjects of this kind, should not lightly be called in question, ob- serves, " If the pure dung of cattle is to be used as manure there seems no reason why it should be made to ferment except in the soil ; or if suffered to ferment it should be only in a very slight degree. The grass in the neighborhood of recently voided dung is always coarse and dark green ; some persons have attributed this to a noxious quality in unfermented dung ; but it seems to be rather the result of an excess of food fur- nished to the plants. " During the violent fermentation, which- is neces- sary for reducing farm-yard manure to the state in which it is called short muck, not only a large quan- tity of fluid, but likewise of gaseous matter is lost ; so much so, that the dung is reduced one half or two thirds in weight ; and tlic principal elastic matter dis- engaged, in carbonic acid with some ammonia ; and iTOth of these, if retained hy the moisture in the soil, arc capable of becoming useful nourishment of plants. " It is usual to carry straw that can be employed for uo other purpose to the dunghill to ferment and decom- pose ; but it is worth an experiment whether it may not be more economically applied, when chopped small by a proper machine, and kept dry till it is ploughed in for the use of a crop. In this case, though it would decompose much more slowly, and produce less effect at first, yet its influence would be more lasting. The Farmer's Magazine, a British periodical work of celebrity, opposes this theory of Sir Humphrey Davy. The conductor says that he " has known dung and litter, which had been turned down fresh in the furrow appear the next spring without any visibk' change. Of course it must have lain dormant, without contri- buting to the growth of the plants. Dry wheat straw was regularly laid in the hollow of drills, and potatoes planted above the straw. Both were then covered with earth ; but very few of the potatoes ever came above ground, and these only towards the end of au- tumn. When the field was afterwards ploughed, the straw seemed to have undergone no change ; nor did it convey any sensible benefit to future crops. Had the same straw been previously subjected to only a moderate fermentation in the dung-yard, there can be no doubt but its cflects would have been very difler- ent." The Ho'n. Ricliard Peters, of Penn. is likewise op- posed to the use of unfermented manures. He observes in a letter to the Hon. Mr. Quincy, that "• straw muck cannot be regularly spread. The auimal matter is not mix'-d with the straw, but lies in masses per se [by it- self.] This over ferments, and throws up your crops in bunches or spots, over luxuriantly ; and it lays, smuts, or mildews. The earth prevents fermentation in" the straw ; and this dry rots, and becomes a ca/ju/ mortuum, [dead useless mass.] I have experienced this effect over and over again. I think reasonably fermented dung goes further. All the straw and ad- ditional matter is impregnated, and being decomposed, sjlj-taJi with tlie animal ejections more equally, and to iufinitdy better advantage, assisting your crops in more points, and operating efliciently on the whola."* Mr. Robert Smith', President of the Maryland Agri- cullur;il Society, appears to entertain a different opin- ion on this subject. This gentleman in an -Address to the Maryland Agricultural Society observes, " with respect to stable dung I shall, for the present, content myself by barely suggesting that my experience strong- ly inclines me to the opinion that, Itowever long, it ought to be ploughed into the ground, without any pre\ ions stirring, and as soon as practicable alter it shall have been taken from the farm yard."t * Sie Mass. A^ricuUural Repository, vol. ii; p. 3:i1. f%ite Jlnurican Farmer, vo!. iv, p. 82. (to be CONTIi'LED.) The Essex Agricultural Exhibition will be at Topps- field, the 2d of October. Over 600 dollars will be awarded in premiums. Address by the Rev. Dr. Faton of Boxford. Dinner tickets fixed at fjO cents. — Further particulars respecting this Exliibition postponed fur want of room to our next. The orchard of Mr. Stephen^Osborn, of Danvers, has produced an apple this season, weighing iwV.e.'coj uiid a half ounces ! More magnificent yet .' — '\\'e yesterday (says the Sa» lem Gazette of Tuesday,) received an apple which grew on a tree in Col. I'ickman's orchard, Sbuth fields, under the care of that industrious and persevering hus- bandman, Mr. Erastus A\ are, which weighed lieenti/ ouncts, large. Mr. B. V. Clench, of New York, has raised a ciic^i.m- her this year, measuring 23 inches in length,- l2 in cir- cumference, and weighing 5 lbs. 12 oz. In a letter from James Whlton, Esq. of Lee, to the Editor of the Berkshire Star, he says, " I have raised the present st-ason, on one acre of land belonging to my farm, ci'^)ity-fire bushels of oats." Munificent . — The honorable Stephen Van Rensselaer has engaged Prof. A . Eaton, of Troy,"-to take a Geo- logical and Agricultural Suivey of the Great Canal rout from Albany to Buffalo, a distance of 300 miles. The survey is to include the breadth often miles. A most horrid Ir.ansaction took place at the jail in this city on Friday night, September 6, about 12 o'clock. It appoftrs that Howard Trask, Francis Durgcn and John Newman were all confined in one room. At about midnight, Trafk got up and went to Newman's bed, where he was asleep, and without giving hiin the least. notice of his intention, with a sharp instrument of some kind he cut open his stomach. Durgen who was in aiK)ther part of the room aivoke, and coming to New- man's assistance was met by Trask, who stabbed him in the breast in several places, and he would probably have iijiumanly butchered them both had not Iheir cries brought the watchmen to their assistance. They are both considered dangerously wounded. Trask is the person who was concerned with Green at the State Pri son riot in October last, and was acquitted on the ground of insanity — Newman and Durgen are confined for theft. Trask refused to answer any questions put to him respecting the affair ; nor hath the instrument used by him as yet been discovered. — Evening Gazette. , Sickness. — \\'ithin the last three weeks, nine persons have died in Guildhall, Vt. and eleven in Northumber- l.and, N. H. of Dysentery. The extraordinary mortality is among children from six months to twelve years old. And althougii the disease is called the dysentery, yet if puts on a different appearance from the common and ordinary disorder known by that name. The public may expect hereafter a more particular account of the progress. of this disease, and the treatment of it, by some of the Physicians attending on it, Octavius Pickering, Esq. is appointed by the Gov- ernor and Council, Reporter of the Decisions of the Supreme Judicial Court of this Commonwealth, in the place of Mr. Tjmg, who has resigned the o/Bce. YKLLOIV FEVER ^iT .HEW YORK. On Sunday last 4, Monday 4, Tu< sday (i, Widnes- day 11 cases. There has been about one hundred deaths since the commencement of the fever. The Board of Health announced on Tuesday the death by yellow fever of .Mr. George Gilbert \Sarren, of New York, at one of the most frequented public houses in town. He arriv-ed in town on the 23d ult. and was taken ill on the 3d inst. and died on the morn- ing of (he 9th. It is by no means remarkable that a single individual, of the great nuinbir of persons who have come to town directly from (he diseaseil district in New York, should liave sickened here of the fever, nor does it afford any ground for alarm to those who have not been in that district. It is a very satisfactory proof of the favorable change of the public opinions in rela- tion to this disease, that this gentleman was suffered to remain where he could have llie most comfortable ac- rommodatioTis, and the best attendance, and that none of the numerous lodgers in the very resp( rt'ible house where he sickened, have in consequeace fled from their quarters. — Daily jldeerliscr. . A second Lambert ,' — There is a gentleman living, iii the town of Centerliarbour, in this State, Mr. Caleb Towle, a wealthy and respectable farmer, whose height is 5 feet 10 inches, girth 7 feet, and weight SI."! pounds. He is obliged to use a second chair for the mort bulky part of his frame. — Pcrt:moulh Journal. Dartmouth College. — On Thursday, the 22d ult. the prize declamations took place at this Seminary. 'J he prizes were awarded to George K. Pomroy, of Boston^ Michael Lovell, George Boardman, and John Cham- berlain, members of the College. At 11 o'clock, the exercises of the Phi Beta Kappa commenced ; when an elegant and classical oration was delivered by Professor Oliver, late of Sakm. It is said to have been WTitten in a style of neat simplicity and perspicuity seldom- surpassed. — The Society elected the Hon. Daniel Webster, of Boston, for their President- during the ensuing year. — ibid. AGRICULTURAL NOTICE. THE Trustees of the Plymouth County Agricultural Society, having agreed to ofler in premiums, the sum granted by the government, for that purpose, and also the income of the funds belonging to said society, . do hereby give notice, that there will be a Catti.k Show, and- Exhibition of Manufactcrks, i;c. &c. at South Bridgewater, on TUESDAY, the Eighth day of October next, at 9 o'clock, A. M. — and that an Ad- dress is expected on the occasion, by Hector Orr, Esq. Candidates for premiums are requested to communi- cate their intentions to Bartholomew Brown, or Daniel Mitchell, Esq'rs. previous to the first day of said Oct'r. DANIEL HOWARD, President. West Eiidgewater, Sept. 1022. SPEED THE PLOUGH. ri^HE subscriber (late President of the Berkshire I Agricultural Society) convinced of the importance of disseminating improred Agricultural Implements, and (hat it can only be effected in an efficient manner, thro' (he medium of persons who are practically conversant Hi(h, and able to judge of their true merits from expe- rience, proposes to open a REPOSITORY for the sale, on commission.^ oi 3.\\ kmds of Agricultural Implements ami Machinery. — Like'.cise, for Prime Seeds, and ap- proved Agricultural Books. It being the object of the subscriber to bring into nse such articles only as possess real merit, it is proper to renjark, that he will offer none for sale but such as he may be really acquainted with, or which he shall have previously tested by experience. Letters, post paid, will be duly attended to, and all favors gratefully acknowledged. THOMAS MELVILL, Jr. Pittsfield, (Berkshire Co.) Sept. 10, 1822. SUBSCRIBERS to the New E ■ .-.la.nd Far.mf.r who wish to be considered as paying in advance for the first Vol. must forward us $2,50 on or before the first day of October next. All who neglect paying at that time will be charged $3. We give this seasonable no- tice that none may complain, as this rule will be strict- ly adhered to. ff^ New subscribers can be furnished with complete files from the commencement, Sept. 1, 56 ^^IE^V ENGLAND FARMER. (Cy" The. foUowin-^ h but lillle inferior to Thormoii's famous " Paletnon and Aaimin." THE MILK M.'lip .3.VZ) HER LOVER. Who hatli not hearcl Of Patty, tho fair milk maitl ? neautifiil As an Arcadian nymph ; upon her brow Sat virgin modf-^ty, whik- in her eyes Young sensibility began to play With hiuocence. Her waving locks fell down On either side her face in careless curls, Shadinsf the tender blu?hes in her cheek. H( r breath was sweeter than the morning gale Stol'n from the rose or viojet's dewy leaves. Her ivory teeth appear'd in even rows, Through lips of living coral. When she spoke Her features wore intelligence ; her words Were soft, with such a smile accomj^auied. As lighted in her face resistless charms. Her polish'd neck ro=e rounding from her breast With pleasing elegance : Her shape was moulded by the hand of ease, Exact proportion harmonizM her frame ; While grace, following her steps, with secret art Stole into all her motions. There she walk'd In sweet simplicity ; a snow white pail Hung on her arm, the symbol of her skill In that fair province of the rural state The dairy ; source of more delicious bowls Thau Bftcchus from his choicest vintage boasts. How great the power of beauty ! the rude swains Grew civil at her sight ; and gaping crowds, Wrapt in astonishment, with transport gaze, Whispering her praises in each other's ear. As when a gentle breeze, borne through the grove Willi quick vibration shakes the trembling leaves, And hushing murmurs run from tree to tree ; tfo ran a spreading whisper through the crowd. Young Thyrsis hearing, turnVl aside his head, And soon the pleasing wonder caught his eye. Full in the prime of youth, the joyful heir Of numerous acres, a large freehold farm, Thyrsis as yet from beauty felt no pain. Had seen no virgin he could wish to make His wedded partner. Now his beating heart Feels new emotion ; now his fixed eye, ^Vith fervent rapture dwelling on her charms, Drinks in delicious draughts of new born lo\'e. No rest the night, no peace the following day Brought to his struggling heart ; lur beauteous form. Her fair perfections, playing on his mind, With pleasing anguish torture him. In vain He strives to tear her image from his breast ; F.ach little grace, each dear bewitching look, Jleturn triumphant, breaking his resolves. And binding all his soul a slave to love. Ah ! little did he know, alas ! the while. Poor Patty's tender heart in mutual pain, Long, long for him had lieav'd the secret sigh. For him she drest, lor him the pleasing arts She studied, and for him she wish'd to live, liut her low fortunes, nursijig sad despair, « Check'd her young hopes, nor dmst her modest eyes Indulge the smallest glances of her (lame. Lest curious malice, like a watchful spy, Should catch the secret, and with taunts reveal. Judge then the sweet surprise, when she at length Beheld him all irri • .lute approfich, And gently taking her fair trembling hand Breathe these soft words into her listening car. " O Patty I dearest maid, whose beauteous form " Dwells in my breast, and charms my soul to love, " Accept my vows ; accept a faillifnl heart, " Which from this hour devotts itself to thee : " Wealth has no relish, life can give no joy, " If you forbid my hope to call you mine." Ah I who the sudden tumult can describe Of struggling passions rising in her breast ? Hope, fear, confusion, modesty and love Oppress her laboring soul ; — she strove to speak. But the faint accents died upon her tongue ; Her fears prevented utterance : — at length '• Can Thyrsis mock my poverty ? Can he " Ee so unkind ? O no ! yet I, alas, " Too humble e'en to hope" — No more she said ; But gently, as if half unwilling, stole Her hand from his ; and with sweet modesty, Casting a look of diffidence and fear. To hide her blushes, silently withdrew. But Thyrsis read with rapture in her eyes The language of her soul. He follow'd, woo'd And won her for his wife. His lowing herds .Soon call her mistress ; soon their milky streams Coagulated, rise in circling piles Ofhardcn'd curd ; and all the dairies round To her sweet butter yield superior prnisc. INDrSTRY AND FRUGALITY. Extracts from Dr. Franklin's writings, and wiiich can- not be too often read, nor too long remembered. IC ive are industrious, we shall never starve ; for at tlje working man's house, hunarcr looks in, but dares not enter. Nor will the bailiff or the constable enter, for " Industry pay:: debts, while despair incrcaseth them." What thouoh you have (ound no treasure, nor has any rich relation left you a legacy, " diligence is the mother of good luck, and God gives all things to industry. Then jilough deep while slug- gards sleep, and you shall have corn to sell and to keep. The diligent spinner has good clothes, and now I have a sheep and a cow, every body bids me good morrow." Remember what poor Richard says, " Buv what thou hast no need of and ere long thou shall sell thy necessaries." And again. " At a great pennyworth pause a while ;" he means, ])erhaps, that the cheapness is ai)parent only, and not real ; or the bargain, by straitening thee in thy business, may do thee more harm than good. " If you would know the value of money, go and try to borrow some ; for he that goes a bor- rowing goes a sorrowing," as poor Richard says ; and indeed so does he that lends to such people, when he goes to get it again. " Creditors have better memories than debtors — creditors are a superstitious sect, great obser- vers of set days and times." Remember that time is money. He that can earn ten shillings a day by his labor, and goes a- broad or sets idle one half of that day, though he spends but sixpence during his diversion or idleness, ought not to reckon that tho only ex- pense— he has really si)ent, or thrown away live shillings besides. Remember this saying, "• The good paymaster is lord of another man's purse.'' He that is known to pay punctually and exactly at the time he promises, may at any time, and on any oc- casion, rai next day — demands it before he can receive it in a lump. Beware of thmking all your own that you possess, and of living accordingly. It is a mis- take that many people who have credit fall in- to. To prevent this, keep an exact account, for some time, both of your expenses and your income. If you take the pains at fir'^t to men- tion particulars, it will have this good ellect— you will discover how wonderfully small trifling expenses amount up to large sums, and will discern ^vhat might have been and may for the future be saved, without occasioning any great inconvenience. In short the way to wealth, if you desire it, is as plain as the way to market. It depends chiefly on two words. Industry wnd frugality. LAW OF PATEAT.S. CHARLEU EWER, A'o. 51, Cvrnhill, has jtul pub- lished., price $3,50, bound, AN ESSAY ON THE LAW OF PATENTS FOR NEW INVENTIONS. Br Thomas Gree.v iESSF..\i)KN, Counsellor at Law. " As the West Indies had never been discovered, '•without the discovery of the Mariner's Needle ; so it " cannot seem strange, if Science be no farther devel- " oped, if the Art itself of Invention and Discovery be "passed over." — Bacon. The second edition, with large additions, corrected and improveet by the author. RECOMMENDATIONS. EXTRACTS FROM LITTERS TO THK ArTHOR. Salem, Sept. 4, 1U21. Sir — 1 have examined your MS. on the Law of Pa- tents with as much care as my engagements would per- mit, and 1 have no hesitation in expressing my opinion, that the work will be highly useful to all persons who are engaged in obtaining patents, or in vinelicating them iu Ci>urt5 of Justice. I'he manuscript contams a collection of all the cases, on the subject of I'ateuts, within my knowledge ; anel the principles contained in them are detailed with accuracy and fullness in the Summary, at the conclusion. I know of no work so comprehensive as yours on this subject ; and it may be relied on as a safe guide. 1 hope you will receive en- couragement sufficient to justify the publication, which 1 should think would be profitable as well as exten- sively useful. JOSEPH STORY. Thomas G. Fessenden, Esq. Boston, September 23, 182.1, Sin — We have lookeel over the manuscript of the sec- ond e'dilion of your publication on the Law of Patents. Tliis edition is a great improvement on the first, and we think it will be a valuable and useful book to the profe ssion, as it contains the statutes, and state s we be- lieve accurately, all, or nearly all the decisions, which have been made on a branch of the law, daily growing more interesting and important. W M. PRESCOTT, Thomas G. Fessenden, Esq. D. WEBSTER. Boston, September £7, 18i?L Sir — The new edition of your Essay on Patent-Law, which I have taken some time to examine, is a very improved work. i\Iore ample materials, furnished to"" your hands, by decisions, subsequent to your former eflition, have enabletl you to present to the public, and the bar a more minute analysis, as well as a more com- prihensive view of this branch of law than has yet ap- peared in England eir in this country. Your method of arrruiging all the decisions, in the order of an anna- lytical digest of the sr\rial requirements and provisions of our statutes for granting patents, puts the lawyer at once in possession of thi' judicial construction of the statutes-, while your synthetic summary, far more ex- tended anel comprehensive than in the former edition, place within reach ol' the mechanic a sure means of judging whether his invention is a fit subject for a I'n* tent ; what is requu'ed of him by the: statute in order to obtain his Patent; and what provisions are enacted for securing to himself :iml heirs his meritorious pri\ ile ge. I cannot conclude without wishing you the success your labors sure'ly deserve. GEO. SUL14VAN. Thomas G. i'esseuekn, Esq. NEW ENGLAND FARMER Publishi-a every SaturdHv, by THOMAS \V. SHKI'AIU), Kogers' liiiildinj:, Congress Street, linvt.ii, ; at j;-2,50 per ami. in u.lvaiue, or $J,UO at the rluse ol the year. No. 8. Vol. I. BOSTON, SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21. 1822. CO.NSIDERATIONS ON THE NECESSITY OF F.STABLISHINti A.V AGKICULTUR.\L COLLEGE, and having more of the children of wealthy citizens er;ze,Tnost ambitious families destine some oi' their branches for it ; but the profession becom- ing thereby overstocked, numbers are neces- sitated to intrigue for measures specially favor- able to their imlividual interests, and whuh may raise them to more fortunate static.-. And thus are their superior acquirements, fir want of a suffic'cnt counterpoise, successful!' employed with other views than the promotion of the public good. When markets are giulteii with any commodities, the ingenuity of trader^ will be stretched to the utmost lor discovering ways by which they may dispose of them, an'] r.''cessit3- too often urges them to the adoption of unjustifiable means to effect their purpose. Not a few of the lawyers of the inferior grades, it is believed, are in similar circumstances, and obliged to resort to a similar sinister conduct. These animadversions on the profession of law, as at present existing in our country, are by no means intended to di.-para'^-e the profes- sion; on the contrary, it must be confessed that to it we are indebted for tlie greatest blessings of government, the due investigation and cor- rect discrimination of the rights of the people, and the execution of the laws for their security and protection. An honest, well qualified law- yer, with suitalde dispositions, in any communi- ty, can be one of its most extensive public ben- efactors. To him the oppressed may llee, with a consoling confidence, as to a guardian angel, and be sure of relief But the evil which has been noticed, and which in its progress is con- sidered to have an aspect sulficiently malign to justify apprehensions of its dangerous growth, arises from the superabundance of tlie numbers annually added to the profession, and the want of talents, elsewhere, to form a counterpoise to its preponderating weight. But we cannot pull up the tares, lest thereby we destroy the wheat also. The most effectual, if not the only remedy for this evil then is, to introduce more men of accomplished education into the agricultural de- partmcat, men who shall have di^ccrument suf- ficient to detect the tendency of sinister meas- ures that may he artfully projected, and the masked batteries that may be raised in hostility to the public good, and be able to meet the cliampions of them with their own weapons, and with equal dexterity in the use of them. It is believed that nothing better can be devis- ed, for bringing about this most desirable refor- mation, than the proposed agricultural college, and the dissemination of similar institutions throughout the nation: and if so, this view of it urges, with additional force, the necessity of its adoption, for giving a still higher finish to our already most wonderfull}' improved political fa- bric ; the most perfect existing model of govern- ment ; the wonder and the envy of the world. In our or.linary institutions we have been the mere copyists of foreign establishments. The happy peculiarities of our country require some- thing (iiflerent; and it would be an eternal blot on the American character if we had not the genius and the boldness to tread out of the paths traced in barbarous times, and pursue a course suited to this new world, so very ditfer- ent from the old; especially in regard to the matter now contemplated, which so eminently •nvolves the highest interests of our country. Let it then belong to the state of New-York, to give birth to an institution, which, if the view now taken of the subject be correct, will exceed all others in immediate and most lasting sub- sta-^tial utility. She will then have the praise 'if being the mother of ag-ricuharal schools, by .vhich the cultivation of tlie earth, in the best possible kiiczcn manner, will be taught, and ulti- ;nately improved to the highest possible state of jiertection. One other very important effect will be pro- duced by such an institution. Comparisons will lie made between the practice of those who are educated in it, and those who are brought up to farming in the ordinary way ; and thereby an r'mulation will bo excited that will cause exer- lions, which would not otherwise be made, for makmg continual further appro.ximations to the maximum of improvement. (to be conti.nced.) MASSACHUSETTS AGRICULTURAL REPOSITORY AND JOURNAL, FOR .JUNE. (Continued from p. 43.) By a long article on the subject of cutting rings in the bark of fruit trees and other trees and plants, extracted from a foreign publication, among other facts we learn that, '• All apple trees form an abundance of addi- tional tlower buds, in consequence of ringing; but it' the ring be wide, the ringed branches, especiallv young ones, speedily become sickly; it is therefore advisable, with them not to cut rings of greater width, than what will be closed up, at the end of the same season, or early in the Ibllowing year; besides, it seems that the improvement in size and beauty, is obtained chiefly in the first year of the ringing, therefore the rings of apple trees certainly should not ex- ceed a quarter of an inch in width, on strong branches, and they should be narrower on small and weak shoots. Fresh branches on the same tree, ought to be annually ringed, and thus a sucession of produce be uninterruptedly kept up.^' A Mr. Twamley found by experiment that •• the rings made in horizontally trained branch- es do not so readily close up as those on upright growing ones ; and he found an advantage in protecting the exposed part of the wood at the ring with grafting clay." Another gentleman " made his rings a quarter of an inch wide, at the end of April and beginning of May, and in the winter covered the open rings with clav and cow dung. The fruits of all, in comparison with the produce of the unringed branches, were, exclusive of the additional quantity, either altered in size or in color, hut did not keep so well, and were thought inferior in flavor, which is the natural consequence of the increase ia size." It appears that pear trees suffer less from ringing than apple trees. " In healthy and clear shoots, the bark of pear trees soon restores itself over the ring, unless it is cut very wide. The eflect of ringing them is a certain produc- tion of blossom buds, so much so that even 3'oung trees may be brought into bearing by this means." " The branches of plum and cherry trees sustain injury and become cankered by ringing-; but as tliey are always free hloivers, an increase of blossom by artificial means is not wanted to make them produce fruit."' " Vines are much benefited bj' ringing; their blossom is produced on the shoots of the same year, in sulficient plenty : for additional blossoms, the use, there- fore, of ringing, is not required, but increase of size, early ripening, and improvement of flavor in the grapes, all result from ringing." " The practice may be extensively and usefully appli- ed to ornamental shrubs and plants, which do not readily blossom." It is observed by Sir John Sinclair that, " Iq many cases, particularly in pear trees, cutting out a narrow ring of bark, from one third to one half of an inch, quite round the stem, has ren- dered the crop abundant, which otherwise would have failed. If the incision be covered with a rag, the hollow is filled up with new bark, in the space of a few weeks." Probably a small wire twisted round a branch, so as to form a ligature, might answer every purpose of cutting away the bark, without any danger of injuring the tree. A writer in the American Farmer, vol. iii, p. .342, says that he has tried the experiment of ringing or girdling fruit trees, and is satisfied tliat fruit may be thereby produced, although tlie operation injures the trees. He therefore disa|iproves of it, and prefers scoring, that is making incisions into the bark lengthwise up the trunk, continuing, if necessary, along the principal branches. Indeed the only important use which, as we conceive, can arise from ring- ing fruit trees is found in its forcing young fruit trees to shew what sort of fruit they will pro- duce, which will enable the owner to determine whether it would be advisable to graft them. NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 59 We have next an article on the Dwarf hidian Corn, taken from the Transactions of the Lon- don Horticultural Society. Some heads of this kind of corn were exhibited, which were pro- duced from seed sent to the Society from Paris by M. V'ilmorin, under the name of Mais a Pou- let — •" Chicken Corn/'' The plants do not ex- ceed eighteen inches in height, are very hardy, not being injured by the spring frosts. The grams are of a bright yellow color, round and small, and the flour they contain appears to be peculiarly white and line. Some Notices of the Larch Tree (Pinus Ln- rix) known by the several names of Juniper. Hackmatack and Larch — by John Lowell. Mr. Lowell says that the " Hackmatack grows more rapidly, than the 1-eal Juniper, commonly called the rod Cedar, and is more durable lor posts, than that plant. It will grow on any soil, and rapidly m soils en- tirely ditVercnt from those, in which it is usually found. 1 have them growing, in pure sand, without the smallest apparent admixture of loam, and on a barren gravel — a gravel, which will scarcely support grass. I have large trees in such soils 18 to 21 inches in circumference and thirty feet high, of thirteen years growth.'' There are a number of varieties, which are described in the London Horticultural Transac- tions, and extracted into the article now under consideration. Among others are " The Common Larch (i. e. the Larch of Great Britain) with red or pink flowers, hi the duke of AthoTs plantations on mountainous tracts at an elevation above the sea of 1500 to 1(500 feet, this tree has, at eighty years of age arrived at a size to produce six loads of timber, appearing in durability and every other good quality, to be likelv to answer every purpose, both by sea and land." " Pinus Microcarpa, (a small fruited or coned Larch) the red Larch of North .America. There are some trees of this kind fifty years olil on the Athol estates, but they do not contain one third as many cubit feet of timber as Pinus Larix at a -similar age. (That is, the Englis/i Lurch furn- ishes three times the quantity of timber in fifty years which our own common Larch does.) The wood is so ponderous that it will not swim in water. Its cones are much shorter than those of the Pinus Larix, its branches weaker, and its leaves narrower." Mr. Lowell thinks it would be well to import the cones of the English Larch and some other varieties from Scotland. Mr. Lowell next gives an account of the suc- cess, which has attended his planting small patches of forest trees. In 1807, 1808, and 1809, he planted with forest trees from two to three acres of land, which was barren and un- productive, its whole value per annum not ten dollars. The trees were White Pine, Larch, Fir Balsam, and in the better parts. Oak of va- rious sorts, Maple, Beech, Ash, Elm, Locust, Spruce, Spanish Chesnut, &c. " The land was about half of it ploughed and kept open with potatoes for 2 years and then abandoned to the course of nature. The jiiues were taken up out of the forest with great care, not more than 5 feet high. Wherever I had the cupidity and impatience to introduce a lar- ger tree I either lost it or it became sickly. In some places I planted acorns, and as to my hard wood forest trees, transplanted from the woods, finding they looked feeble and sickly wiien they shot out, I instantly sawed them ofiat the ground or near it. This required some resolution, but 1 have been abundantly paid for it. '• The result of this experiment is this, that in a period from 13 to 15 years I have raised a joung, beautiful and thrifty plantation compris- ing almost every variety of tree which we have in Mass:ichusetts, which are now from 25 to 35 feet higi), and some of which, the thriftiest white pines actually measure from 9 to 12 inches diameter. The loppings, and thinning out ol these trees now furnish abundant supply of l.ght fuel for summer use, and upon as accurate a calculation as 1 am able to midie, I am convin- ced, that the present growth, cut dov/n at the _end of fourteen years from the planting would amply pay for the land at the price it would have brought. I do not mean to say, that this would be the case in the interior, l>ut in the vicinity of Boston and of Salem, I am sure this experiment may be tried with perfect success. In Chelsea, L\ nn, Cambridge, \Vest Cambridge, some parts of Brooklyn, AVonham, Danvors. and many other old towns, I see tracts of land which can ])roduce but little, of an>' value, and which would in fifteen years, at tlie expense of ten days labour for the first four years on each acre, produce trees that would be worth the pre- sent price of the land. 1 am persuaded, that this is no loose calculation." " I owe it to the cause of truth, to state, that I committed a very grave and important mis- take in planting. From the desire to cover my land more rapidly, and to thicken my planta- tions for ornament, I planted my trees too near each other. 1 now sudor from this very natur- al cupidity. I cannot thin them out without hurting the beauty of the landscape, and the trees show how niucli they suffer by the yearly lo.ss of their lower branches, which will niuays die if they have not air and moisture, and like other misers, 1 And myself unwilling to part with the treasure I have possessed. '• This however will not apply to the farmer who raises from a desire of profit. His trees should be placed at least twenty-five feet asun- der in every direction ; he will not fear, as I have done, the use of the axe to thm out his trees. 1 could now cut out light fuel for the supply of my family for two years, without in- juring my plantation, but 1 have not courage to do it." '' I am aware that two objections will be made to this statement — First, that the scale of exper- iment was a small one, not exceeding two p.^res and an half It is true ; but the experiment was sufficiently large to test the utility of the meas- ure. Secondly, that 1 disregarded expense, and put down the cost to the score of luxury. This is not true ; i am sure that the whole labor did not exceed twenty days work of one man on an acre, and with respect to one acre of it not five days labor (in the whole) of one man, has ever been expended upon it. " 1 planted the trees in two or three days, and left them to their fate ; but 1 consider two I conditions, indispensable to success. First, that as to pines of all sorts, and other evergreen trees, they should bo put out not more than fom years old; not pruned, for they will not bear the knife well. Secondly, that as to hard wood for- est trees transplanted from the wood.s, they should be instantly cut down to the ground or near it. " It is only because we have no nurseries ot forest trees in New England, that I s[)eak of the barbarous practice of tran'^planting- and instantly heading down. Young trees from a nursery would in al! respects be preferable." (rO BE COKTINUED.) The Agricultural Society of Biicli'.i County, Penn. have recommended to the citizens of that county, " to strictly prohibit the practice of gunning on their lands, inasmuch as it is believ- ed that the present alarming increase of insects is principally owing to the deslruction of birds." A writer likewise in the Farmer's Journal, of Windsor, Vt. remonstr.ifes against the wanton destruction of the robin, whose young are fed on the insects wliich infest our cornfields. In an article in the American AVaichman, re- commending the gro\vth of millcl, the following is given as the product of one acre sowed with half a bushel of that seed. Three tons of hav and 30 1-2 bushels of clean seed. The hay was consumed by horses who seemed to relish it as they would the best upland. The seed when manufactured into flour makes a cake more wholesome and ecpially palatable with that of buck wheat. The writer says if one bushel were sowed to the acre the crops would in all probability be proportionably better. An experiment has been made in England to ascertain \vhether the manufacture of spider u-ehs should be encouraged. It would require five thousand insects to make spider silk sullv cicnt lo form a single pair of stockings. It has been proved, by experiment, that the spider silk is so exceedingly fine that five threads are required to form one of fliC strength of the silk worms. A gentleman in England presented to a society, a pair of gloves and stockings, both from the spider web, possessing all the gloss and beauty of real silk. Baltimore Morning Chronicle. Tlie influence of the black color upon heat was lately explained to the anatomical class of Allahabad in the following manner : — Two tea pots, one black and the other XL'hitc, were placed on a table, and filled, each with boiling water, from the same kettle, which had been ]daced on the fire in the presence of the students. At the termination of the lecture, in the course of an hour, the water in the black tea pot had very considerably cooled, as was perceptible both to the finger, and by the ther- mometer, while the temperature in the xs.'hite tea pot continued nearly at its original standard. Calcutta paper. The manufiicture of woollen cloth, at Steu- benville, Ohio, has been brought to such per- fection, that an English gentleman lately exam- ining some of the cloths at the factory store- house, could not be persuaded but that the pro- prietors kept on hand an assortment of fine Brit- ish cloths, and sold them for American. (iO NEW ENGLAND FARMER. FACTS AND 0BS!;RVATI0NS P.ELATIXG TO AGRICULTURE ^ DOMESTIC ECONOMY. ON Dt.FA' ANI> FP.EQll^XT I'l.OriilllXG. •' I entertain no doubt of the utility of deep ploug'hinj ; not at once, in our l:iiuls in general, but by an increase of two or three inches at every annual plougliinsj, until the earth be stir- rod and i>iilveriso(l to the depth often or twelve inches. Indian corn planted in such a muss of loosened earth, would not, I am persuaded, ever suflcr by ordinary drouc;lits. Like a sponge,, it would absorb a vast (piantity ol' rain water, and become a reservoir to supply the >vant o! that and all other i)lants. Nothina: is more common in a dry sumnr'r, than the rollinc^ of the leaves of corn; and that circumstance is often men- tioned as an evidence of the severity of the drought. This rolling- of the leaves of Indian corn, is the consequence in part, of scant ma- nuring-, but still more of sballow ploughing. Few, perhaps, arc aware of the depths to which the roots of plants will penetrate in a deeply loosened earth. A gentleman much inclined to agricultural irKpiiries and observations, inform- ed me, near filly years ago, that seeing some men digging a well, in a hollow place, planted ivith Indian corn, then at its full growth, he stopped to examine how far its roots had de- scended, and he traced them to the depth of nine feet. The soil was an accumulation of earth, which had run or been thrown into the hollow. " The seeds of the common t\irnip, sown in warm weather, and on a soil siiificiently moist, I have known to vegetate in about eight and Ibrty hours; and in only four or live days after- wards, I found the plants had sent down roots to the depth of four or live inches." .1/r. Ptcktrmg''s Address lo the Essex Ag. Soc. Sir John Sinclair gives the following Maxims UESPECTliNli THE PROPEa DEPTH OF PLOUGdIXG. L The depth to which land ought to be ploughed, must fust be regulated by the depth of the soil. On thin soils, more especially on a rocky substratum, the ploughing must necessa- rily be shallow ; but when the soil, whether light or strong will admit of it, the ploughing ought to be as deep as a pair of horses can ac- complish ; and at some seasons, it is advanta- geous to plough it even with four, particularly at the commencement of every fresh rotation. 2. The depth ought likewise to depend on ihe means of improving the soil ; for when the land is poor, and the means of enriching it are scanty, the depth of ploughing ought to be in proportion to the quantity of manure which can be obtained. 3. Deep ploughing is highly advantageous upon every soil, excepting those where the substratum is an ochry sand. In fact, such sands are scarcely worthy of being cultivated, unless in situations whore much alluvial compost, [marsh mud, Sic] or short town manure, can be procured. 4. It is a general rule never to plough so deep as to penetrate below the soil that was formerly manured and cultivated, excepting upon fallow, and then only, when you have plenty of lime or dung to add to, and improve the new soil. 5. Many farmers recommend, when fallowing land, to go as deep as po.ssible with the lirst furrow ; by which the subsequent furrows will be more easily done, and to expose the soil to the winters frost, and to the summer's heat ; but when the land is ploughed in spring for a crop of oats, a strong soil cannot be ploughed in safety, above five or six inches. (). Deep ploughing is advisable on moorish cold soils, as it ali'ords a greater scope for the roots of plants to procure nourishment, admits the superabundant moisture to subside from them, and prevents the summer drought from making an injurious impression on the growing crops ; for. on such land, shallow ploughing ex- poses vegetation to be starved or drowned in wet weather, and to be scorched or withered in dry. 7. It is unnecessary to ])lough deeper, when the seed is sown, than where there is a fair probability of the different kinds of plants send- ing their roots ; and as beans, clover, and tur- nips, the only tap-rooted kinds usually cultivat- ed in this country, seldom send their shoots above seven or eight inches down into the soil, and the culmiferous species not so far, it is pro- bable, from these circumstances, that from sev- en to eight inches may be deep enough for all the purposes of ordinary culture. Occasionally, however, ploughing even ten inches, in the course of a rotation, during the fallow process, is advisable. Deep i)lnughing is not to be recommended, 1. When lime or marl has been recently ap- plied, as they have such a tendency to sink, from their weight, and the moisture they im- bibe. 2. Where turnips have been eaten off by sheep on the land where they were grown. :3. When grass only two or three years old, more especially where it has been pastured by sheep, is broken up ; because, owing to the ex- treme condensation of the soil, by the trampling of the sheep, a furrow, even of a moderate depth >o (ippcarci.jcc, will make the plough pen- etrate below the staple that had been cleared, by the culture given during the previous fallotv. By this means myriads of the seeds of annual weeds are raised to the surface, where they vegetate, and materially injure the crop culti- vated, besides replenishing the soil with a fresh supply of their own seeds. In all these cases from four to live inches will be found sufficient. .\nd, 4. If land is infested with natural grasses, which generally run much on the surface, the lirst ploughing should not be deeper than is necessary to turn up the roots of the grasses that they may be destroyed. ADVANTAGES OF DEEP PLOUGHING. 1. Bringing up new mould, is peculiarly fa- vorable to clover, beans and potatoes; and, in- deed, without that advantage, these crops usu- ally diminish in quantity, (piality and value. 2. Deep ploughing is likewise of great con- sequence to every species of plant, furnishing not only more means of nourishment to their roots, but above all, by counteracting the inju- rious consequences of either too wet or too dry a season. This is a most important considera- tion, for, if the season be wet, there is a greater depth of soil to absorb the moisture, so that the plants are not likely to have their roots im- mersed in water ; and in a dry season it is still more useful, for in the lower parts of the cul- tivated soil, there is a reservoir nf moisture^ \\h'\ch is brought up to the roots of the plants, by the evaporation which the heat of the sun pccasicus. 3. By deep plough ig also, the ground may be more effectually cleared of root weeds of every description ; in |)articular, it is the best mode of eradicating thistles. 4. By deep ploughing, animal and \cgctable manures, which have such a tendency to rise to the surface, are jiroperly covered. This cannot be done by shallow ploughing, in conse- quence of which much of the value of such ma- nures is lost. 5. By deep ploughing a heavier crop is rais- ed than can be got from a shallow furrow. An intelligent farmer, indeed, after pointing out that deep |)Ioughing increases the st.-iplc of the soil, keeps the roots of the corn from lieing in- jureil by wetness, and also enables the crop longer to resist drought, adds, '• / have ever found deep ploughing attended u-ith good crops, Xi'hen riilgcs^ shalloiv ploughed, in the saute Jicldy zi-ere but indi^'creiit j-" which seems a decisive proof in favor of deep ploughing. The celebrated .\rthur Young gives the fol- lowing rules relative to Ploughing. 1. An additional depth should first be gained in autumn, that successive change of seasons may take effect in atmospheric influences, be- fore any seed is ventured in the raw stratum lirst brought up. 2. The quality of that stratum should be ex- amined ; it is sometimes sterile by reason of an acid discoverable by boiling in water, and put- ting that water to the test of blue infusions. 3. Animal and vegetable manures cannot be buried ; at whatever depth they are di'i)osited, their constant tendency is to rise to the atmos- phere. 4. Fo.ssil manures are extremely liable to be buried, having a constant tendency downwards. Chalk, marl, and clay, are sufficiently soluble, or so miscible with water as to sink in a regu^ lar mass, and are sometimes found much below the depth of the plough. 5. In soils of a poor hungry quality, there should be some proportion observed between the depth of ploughing and the quantity of ma- nure usually spread ; but this does not hold good on better soils. I). Soils are rarely found that ought not to be ploughed, in common, six inches deep ; many ought to be stirred eight inches, and some ten. 7. One deep ploughing (to the full depth) shoidd be given once in twelve, eighteen, or twenty-four months: if this be secured, shallow tillage is in many cases preferable to deep working oftener, especially for wheat, which loves a firm bottom. EASY METHOD OF DISCOVERING %VHETHER. OR NOT SEEDS ARE SUFFICIENTLY RIPE. An English pul)lication assures us, that, '• Seeds, when not sufficiently ripe, will swim, but when arrived at lull maturity, they will be found uniformly to fall to the bottom ; a fact that is said to hold equally true of all seeds."' SOAKING OF SEEDS. " In dry seasons the soaking of seeds in wa.. ter, a day or two before committing- them to the ground will forward their growth, as well as by artificially watering the ground before or after sowing them ; and the soaking of them in a solution of salt and water may have another advantage of giving an opportunity of rejecting- NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 61 :he li!?ht seeds, which float, and perhaps of de- jtroving: some insects which may adhere to Ihem ; the sprinkling: some kinds of seeds with lime may also he of advantage for the purpose of destroying insects, if such adiiere to ^ them, and of attracting moisture from the air, or lower parts of the earth, or for its other useful prop- erties ; but where the seed, soil and season, are adapted to each other, none of these condiments are required. •' It may nevertheless, on other accounts, be very advantageous to steep many kinds of grain in the black liquor, whicli oozes from manure heaps. Mr. Cliappcl, in the papers of the Bath Society, found great benefit by steeping barley in thetluid abr.ve mentioned, for twenty-four hours, and skimming olY the light grains. On taking it out of the water, he mixed wood ashes sifted witii the grain to make it spread regu- larly, and obtained a much liner crop, than from the same corn, sown ivithout preparation. To this we may add, that to steep the seed in a solution of dung in water, as in the draining from a dung-hill, is believed in China both to forward the growth of the plant, and to defend it from a variety of insects, according to the in- Ibrmation given by Sir G. Staunton." PRESERVING SEEDS. '• Seeds of plants maybe preserved, for many months at least, by causing them to be packed, either in husks, pods, &:c. in absorbent paper wllh raisins, or brown moist sugar ; or a good way, practised by gardeners is to wrap the seed in brown paper or cartridge paper pasted down, and then varnished over." SOWING FRUIT WITH SEEDS. When the fruit, which surrounds any kind of seeds, can be sowed along with them, it may answer some useful purpose. Thus the fruits of crabs, quinces, and some hard pears, will be all the winter uninjured covered only with their autumnal leaves, and will contribute much to nourish their germinating seeds in the spring. Phijtologia. TO GENERATE THE BEST KINDS OF SEEDS The most healthy plants must be chosen, and those which are most early in respect to the season ; these should be so placed, as to have no weak plants of the same species, or even genus, in their vicinity, lest the fecundating dust of weaker plants should be blown by the winds upon the stigmata of the stronger, and thus produce a less vigorous progeny. — ibid. A SUBSTITUTE FOR RINGING SWLNE. Mr. Tubb, an English breeder of stock, has recommended a mode of dealing with these mischievous animals, which it is said may su- percede the necessity of putting rings into their noses. It consists simply in shaving oft, with a razor or sharp knife, the gristle on the top of the noses of young pigs. The place soon heals over, and the pigs are thus rendered incapable of rooting. BREEDING SWINE FOR SALE ON THE FOOT, FOR STORE FIGS, ROASTING PIGS, &C. A breeding stock of Swine is said, by some writers on husbandry, to be more profitable to the farmer than keeping /(tiling stocks of the same animal. This will no doubt be the case on a dairy farm, as whey and skimmed milk can, perhaps, be applied to no other purpose so prolitablv ; and those substances arc not suffi- cient to fat grown hogs for the market. The pigs may be sold at any time from three wi^eks to six months old, and their places suj)plicd by fresh litters. A practice of this sort is recom- mended in Hunter's Georgical Essays, vol. vi, p. 183. From tfie Old Colony Memorial. In answer to the inquiry of Agricola, " Whe ther young apple trees are not sometimes de- stroyed by taking all their top branches ofi' in the operation of grafting ?" By nursery men, the operation of grafting is generally perform- ed upon seedlings in the nursery while very small, and then the whole to]) is taken off with- out an} injury or danger;* but when it is de- sired to change the fruit of a standard tree, or one that has attained nearly the size of bearing, the knife ought to be applied with caution — the head of the tree ought to be opened, by pruning the lateral branches of their upright limbs, so as to let in the light and air freely, and then cut off the leading branch, or the two leading branches, as there frequently are two, and sometimes three, and graft the desired fruit, leaving the lateral branches, cit least one year, when you may graft one or more of the lateral branches as you may wish to form the head ; and the second year you may with safety cut off the remaining superfluous branches — the necessity or utility of leaving on the lateral branches I conceive to be, the preservation of the circulation of the sap — in my own experi- ence I have lost several trees by cutting off the whole head, and inserting several grafts at a time ; I found they failed the second year by a sort of ccnfcer, beginning where the amputation was made, and descending so as to cut off all nutrition from the scion, while suckere would shoot up from the stump. 1 will not say that failure universally follows the cutting off the whole head at once, for I have seen it succeed in some instances, as I have travelled the road, but I have also seen many others that have failed. These facts are the result of many years experience and observation. Yours, P. * There is a beautiful young orchard of about 250 apple trees in the town of Hanson, set out a few years since by its present owner, Charles Cushing, Esq. All the trees were grafted the two first years. The tops were wholly cut away ; not a limb or sucker was spared. All the scions were set in the trunks of the trees. Not one of the number died, and the orchard is now rcmarkalily thrifty, and no doubt fixes the eyes of travellers in that part of our country. From the same Paper. To the Editor — Sir — In the New England Farmer, Sept. 7th, a writer over the signature of '• A Farmer," refers to a publication in the O. C. Memorial, signed " Monumet ;" adverting to the destruc- tive ravages of the worm upon the grass and corn in this vicinity. The Farmer regrets that Monumet, while announcing the enemy, did not attempt a description of Inm, and he observes, " If he has ascertained, that it was a worin^ which produced this devastation, he might have described its length, its color, its first appear- ance, and duration. Is it the same worm which attacks the grass and the corn ? A worm that should destro}', or injure Indian corn in August, must be an important enemy, and should be de- scribed." To supply the deficiency of Monumet, and in some imperfect manner to meet the desire of the Farmer, I will attempt a description of the worm, and as far tis facts will enable me, its first appearance ; its duration cannot be ascer- tained, (for it continues in full activity at the ])resent time,) nor as yet, its generation, or its liabitudes. The worm was first discovered about the middle of June, its presence was suspected from the sickly a|q)earance of the corn, about the time oi half hillings the leaves turned red and wilting. On examination the worm was found depredating on the fibrous roots. It was then about tiiree quarters of an inch in length, it has continued increasing in size until it has attained ;lic length of one inch and a quarter or half'. 1 shall not attempt a scientific description, but perhaps I may be able to make myself under- stood by those who have made natural history their study — its colour is white or a yellowish white, except the exterior part about one third its length appears bluish, from the contents of the abdomen, which, when emptied, is wholly whitish. Its head is large and beetle-shaped, copperas-yellow, near its mouth are two horns, similar to those of the beetle, but not so large in proportion to its size, immpdiately ovfer these were a pair of antenme. I could discover no eyes on each side — on the anterior part, are three principal legs, resembling (when viewed through a microscope) those of a crab or lobster and are placed within an eight of an inch of the head — forward of these, and near its mouth, arc two smaller legs, similar in appearance to the other, but of which he makes no use in moving, but appear to be placed so as to assist him in conveying food to his mouth ; the rest of his body is without legs, and in moving is dragged along — the whole body consists of distinct folds, I did not count them, but I think there may be 10 or 12 — the size is that of the largest goose- quill, or rather larger. That it is " the same worm which feeds on grass and on the corn'''' is demonstrable, and on the potatoe also, which in some fields are more than half devoured. With respect to its generation or its habits wc have not had experience, or an opportunity to observe them, so as to form even a conjecture. In digging the earth last March, they were dug up three feet below the surface, and in digging a post-hole in June they were found two feet down. Their lodgment now, is about two in- ches below the sward, which may be separated from the earth and turned over like a carpet, and so numerous that in one instance 128 were counted on the area of one yard, in another 12 on a square foot. They first made their appearance here in 1819, they did much damage then to the grass, especially pastures, but not to be compared to that of the present season ; — and those fields that were devoured then, have nearly escaped now. In the spring of 1820, there was an un- usual appearance of what are called the May Bee ; the conclusion then was, that they were connected with these worms, but this theory wants confirmation. Yours, PLYMOTHEUS. 6^ NEW ENGLAND FARMER. FOR THE .NEW E.%GI^AXD FARMER. Extract of a letter from J. F. Dana, Professor of Chemistry in Dartmouth College, to the Editor. dated Sept. 17, 1022. Dear Sir, I was pleased with the corresponJencn hc- twcen Gov. Wolcott and Mr. Poniorov, contain- ed in your paper, wiiich 1 received yesterday. The subject is one of great importance to the country. The application of steam as a means of sep- arating the glutinous matter from flax is sug- gested by Gov. Wolcott, and probably might be employed with the most decided advantage ; but will it destroy the coloring matter ? proba- bly not ; and the use of steam generated from rOkaline solutions seems to be forbidden by the suggestion of Mr. Pomeroy, that alkaline leys destroy a cellular oil on which the delicate soft- ness of the llax depends. 1 wish to inquire, why chlorine or oxymuriatic acid gas may not be employed ? The objections to its use in com- mon bleaching will not apply to its use in blea- ching flas. I'crmit me to suggest its apjilica- tion in the following way. Let a convenient ajjparatus for sliaining the flax be prepared ; into the boiler trom which the steam is gener- ated, introvhich oldorine gas is produced, viz. sulphuric acid, manganese and common salt. Now when heat is applied to the boiler to produce steam, the leaden vessel wliich it contains and which is surrounded by water, will be also heated ; steam, and chlorine gas will be formed at the same time ; the former will dissolve the gluti- nous matter, and the latter will destroy the col- or, and both will pervade every part of the apparatus. Experiment alone must decide whether this suggestion is practically useful ; nor do I know that it has not been tried, and found useless. The muriate of lime, suggested by Mr. P. has no powers in bh'aching, and it is stated by some writers, that it very much weakens the texture o( linen. J. F. DANA. .Agricultural Exhibition for the Counti/ of Essex, at Topsfcld, on Wednesday, Oct. 2, 1822. The Trustees of the Essex Agricultural So- ciety, to encourage improvements in the Agri- culture and Maiiulactures of the County, offer in premiums for the present year, more than Six Hundred Dollars. They have taken care to provide convenient accommodations, and from the increasing interest manifested in the subject, they anticipate a more interesting ex- hibition than in any preceding year. All claims for preiii.uins ,foi- Stock, muft be entered with the Secretary, or Col. E. Wildes, of Topstield, on the day previous to the exhi- bition. All Animals and articles intended for exhibi- tion or premium, must bo presented to the offi- cers of the Socict}', who will be in attendance to receive them, by eight o'clock, A. M. The Ploughing Match will take place pre- cisely at eleven o'clock. The trial of Working Oxen will follow immediately after. .\i one o'clock, the members of the Society will dine together at the Topslield Hotel. At two o'clock, the Pieports of the Committees ivill be received and exainhieJ by the Trustees. At half past two o'clock, the members of the Society will go in procession from the Hotel to the Meeting House, where an Address will be delivered by the Rev. Dr. Eaton, of Boxford. .After this, the Reports of the Committees will be publicly communicated, and such other busi- ness transacted as the interests of the Society may require. From the Columbian Cciitincl. Mr. Russf.i.l — As the farmers are blessed with an abundant crop, it is of the tirst importance to have it well harvested. The present month has been uncommonly fa- vorable to the harvesting of beans, onions, and potatoes. 1 would recommend to those who have beans not yet harvested, to have them pulled and housed before all the vines are dead, and before there comes rain. For one bushel gathered in this way is worth two bushels which are lef't in the field till the rain swells them. It is a la- mentable fact, that nearly one half of all the white beans, which come to market, have a shrivelled appearance, which indicates neglect in the harvesting. For if the rain does not swell the bean, after it becomes dry its surface will be fair and smooth, and the bean, when dried, will be soft and tender. They are then much more wholesome than if they had been exposed to rains. Onions. — As soon as onions come to their growth, the tops and roots begin to dry, and they should be harvested. They should be pulled, dried a day or two in the field, and then housed, before the sun turns them green am! makes them tough. For they will taste and keep much better than those which lie out till they take the second root and become weather- beaten. Potatoes. — I presume every man has observed how much better flavored potatoes arc in the month of August, and even to the middle of September, than at any other tilne of the year. The reason is obviously, because they are gath- ered before they have attained their full growth and before the vines are dead. Potatoes, there- fore, should be harvested as soon as the vines begin to die, and then the3' will not have any disagreeable earthy and watery flavor. They may be placed immediately in the cellar and will not sustain any injury from their dampness, if the cellar doors and windows are left open in fair weather. THE FARMER'S FRIEND. From the New York Statesman. Cotton. — Our readers will recollect that in the early part of the year several essays were publi-.hed in the Statesman, under the signature of " .Agncola," on the subject of cultivating cotton in this and the adjoining states. Our correspondent being desirous that a fair trial should be made, procured, at his own expense, from South Carolina and Virginia, several bar- rels of seed, which were de[)OBited with the editors of this paper, and by his direction, gra- tuitously distributed to all who were disposed to try the experiment. We shall be glad to learn from those who have attempted the culti- vation of cotton from seed received at this of- fice, what success they have met with. We have seen some bolls taken from the garden of Mr. O. P;iikcr, of Greenwich, on the 10th inst. which had then opened, and which present fin specimens of cotton. The seed was planted about the 23d of April, and we have no doubt that the cotton in the garden from which these bolls were taken, will come to maturity before the warm season is over. Poulson's Philadelphia paper of Saturday says — " Some cotton seeds were put in the ground at Camden, N. J. in May last, and on the first day of September, inst. a part of it was maturely ripened and fit to gather. As it was late in the spring when these seeds were plant- ed, there cannot be a doubt but that this valua- ble plant may be successfully cultivated in the sandy soil of New Jersey." From the Western Reserve Chronicle. Quick fVork. — The bam of Mr. S. Hutchins, a respectable farmer in Vienna, (Ohio,) was struck with lightning on the 23th July, and most of the hay and all the grain raised on hie farm the present season were consumed. On the 7lh of August, his neighbors assembled and erected a barn for him 36 feet by 2G. They cut the timber, hewed, framed, raised, boarded, shingled, made and hung the doors, and a large load of hay presented to him, was unloaded in It before sunset of the same ilay. Something Marvellous. — On draining off the water in the summit level of the canal this week for the purpose of removing the earth which had been deposited in it by the late freshet, large quantities of live clams were discovered in the bottom of it, the shells of some of which measured 7 inches in length, and were well proportioned. Persons who have partook of these aquatic sojourners of our place, represent them to be of " most delicious flavor.'''' — The shells are of a greenish cast, and almost as trans- parent as glass. — Sandy Hill Times. NEW ENGLAND FARMER. BOSTOjX :— SATURDAY, SEPT. 21, 1822. O.N' SAVING ASD MAKISG THE MOST OF MANDRE. {Continued from p. 55.) Tlie advocates for long manure, and the sticklers for short manure, in our o^iinion, are botli right with re- gard to some of tile points in controversy. As regards other matters in dispute, we believe the truth lies be- tween them, and of course both parties are a little on one or the other side of it. The better to comprehend the subject, and make those practical deductions, which may render its dis- cussion useful, it may be well to take into view, I. The nature of the soil to which manure is to be applied. II. The crop which is immediately to succeed the application of the manure, and which it is prin- cipally intended to benefit. I. — THE NATURE OF THE SOII., iManure must not only ferment, but be completely decomposed, before it can produce 'its full effects in the nourishment of plants, or in enriching the soil. The products of its fermentation are certain matters called gasses, factitious airs or elastic fluids. They are, prin- cipally, carbonic acid gas, hydrogen gas, and azote, or nitrogen gas. A dark colored liquid, of a slightly sour or bitter taste will likewise be formed ; and if the pro- cess be suffered to continue for a sullicient length of time uothinj solid will remain except earthy and saline NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 63 natter colored with charcoal.* " If a quantity of sta- )le dung be piled iu a heap, and freely exposed to al! he varieties of weather, it soon heats and emits a con- tant stream of vapor. As the passes are escaping it it onstantly diminishing in weight and volume ; and by iie end of six months, if there has been alternate mois- ure and warmth, not above a fourth part of the origin- J bulk remains to be spread on the field ; and this i; Jways a blackish earth, mostly of carbonaceous mat er. All the other ingredients consisting of the hydro ;en, and azote, with part of the carbon in the form o arbonic acid, are partly sunk in the soil, and partl\ )lended with the atmosphere. 1 admit the latter an lot lost in the general system of the universe : but arried with the winds, they combine anew with some iving vegetable, or enter into some equally useful ompaund ; but lost they are to the farmer beyond all ecal. They may enrich his neighbor's crop, or be jted and entangled in the luxuriance of the forest, but hey can never reward his labor, nor impart plenty to is harvests. The nutritive juices m.iy have passed lownward, and fertilized the spot which it covered, ■ut the substance is evaporated, and as completely one, as if it had been consumed by fire."t There can be no doubt but vegetable manure, as >ng as it remains unaltered in its texture, and withoni volving any of the products of putrefaction can have 0 other than a mere mechanical effect in making the )il lie loose, which, in dry weather, will prove rather ijurious than otherwise. But if the putrefactive pro- Bss is carried on, after the manure is spread, and cov- ■cd in the field, its volatile products, before mention- 1, will be imbibed by the soil, and yielded as they ay be wanted by grow ing vegetables. We know hov/evcr, that some kinds of earth retard, id others put an entire stop to putrefaction. A very et, or a very dry soil will prevent wood, straw, &c. om rotting. Some sorts of earth will turn vegetables to peat ; and some will preserve even animal remains r centuries, as entire as Egyptian mummies. That ood will rot much quicker in some than in other •ounds, on the same farm, is a fact known to every jserving husbandman, who has ever made much use 'what is called post-and-rail-fence. Is it not then ;ry possible that the difference among agriculturists lative to long and short manure may have been caus- 1 by the different qualities of the soils to which their jplications have been made ? Perhaps the field, to hich the conductor of the Farmer's Magazine applied dung and litter, which had been turned down fresh I the furrow, and appeared the next spring without ly visible change" might have possessed some chemi- U qualities — some salts or acids which prevented (he lanure from rotting, and preserved it as it were in a ind of pickle for the behoof of posterity. Pure sand ill preserve carrots, beets, kc. which are buried in , much better than loam ; and we have doubts whe- ler fresh manure would undergo much alteration if jried in sand, not mixed with other substances.— here can be no doubt but that suffering manure to lie U it looses any considerable part of its weight, before is used, is not the way to make the most of it. On le other hand, it will, probably, be best to permit it 1 lie in masses, under cover as much as possible, till it 3Come9 tainted, or fermentation has commenced, he- re it is spread and ploughed into the soil. THE NATURE OF THE CROP. In the choice and application of long or short ma- ire, a suitable regard should be had to the nature ol i6 crop, which immediately succeeds such applica- * JigricuUura] Chtmistrt/. f Letters o/^gricola. 'ion. If used for crops of wheat, rye, flax, or in short .uiy crops which cannot well be weeded, it should be :>ld, well rotted, and at least have undergone so great a degree of fermentation as will have destroyed the si-rds of gras.s, weeds, izc. which generally abound in •Vesh barn yard manure. Likewise when used for car- ets, ruta baga, parsnips, and indeed all root crops, ex- -:ept potatoes, it should be fine, well rotted, or mixed in composts, which are so well pulverised as to pre- sent no mechanical obstacles, such as sticks, straws, or lumps of earth to the growth and extension of the roots. For Indian corn or potatoes however, it may be fresh, and if well covered in the soil, its being coarse and mixed with weeds, straw, &c. will not prevent its proving useful. It may be, however, that the soil will cause it to dry-rot like that mentioned by Judge Pe- ters, or it w ill not rot at all like that of the conductor of the Fanner's Magazine. In such cases, it might not be amiss to try the virtue of a little quick lime. This substance, however, should not be applied directly to I lie manure, lest the latter be destroyed by the corro- sive quality of the former. The quick lime should be applied directly to the soil itself some time before the application of the manure, in order to neutralize any acid which may be unfriendly to vegetation, or have a tendency to prevent the decomposition of the manure. (to BE CONTINUEU.) CATTLE SHOWS, &c. The Cattle Show and Fjshibition of Manufactures of the Middlesex Husbandmen and .Manufacturers, will be holden at Concord, Mass. on the 3d of Oct. next. — The Hartford, Con. Cattle Show, on the 9th and 10th of October. — The Agricultural Pociely of Maine, will bold their annual Show and Fair, on the 0th of Oct. at Hallowell. — That of the Rhode Island Society for thi • ■ncouragemeiit of Domestic Industry, at Pautuxet, on the 16th and 17th of Oct. — The Hampshire, Hampden and Franklin, at Northampton, Mass. on the 24tli and 25th of October.— and the Hillsborough, N. II. Cattle Show and Fair, at Amherst, on the 24th and 25th of the present month. Foreign. — On the 7th July the Ministers and Agents of Russia, Austria, Prussia, France, Denmark, Saxony, Portugal, and the Netherlands, all united in a Note to the Spanish Ministers, in which they declare, in the names of their respective Sovereigns, and in the most formal manner, that " on the conduct which will be observed towards his Catholic Majesty, irrevocably de- pend the relations between Spain and the whole of Europe, and that the least insult to the King's Majesty would plunge the Peninsula into an abyss of calami- ties." The British Minister did not join in this pe- remptory note, but sent a special one, the contents of which are not given. — C'enlinel. The war between the Greeks and Turks still rages with unabated fury. The Greeks have lately blown up a Turkish ship, by the means of a fire ship intended for the destruction of two of the principal vessels of the Turkish fleet. The vessel which was thus destroyed carried SO guns, and had a crew of 1700 men, of which about 300 only were saved, the rest having been blown to atoms with the ship. A dispute between Spain and .Algiers on the subject of tribute thrwtens to terminate in hostilities. A successor to Mr. Gallatin, at the Court of St. Cloud, is daily more spoken of, since his speedy return to .\merica has been positively announced. It is ru- moured that the appolutmeLit will be offered to Secre- tary Calhoun. Francis Dugan, one of the prisoners so desperately wounded by Trask, in our jail, on the night of the 6th inst. is dead of his wounds. Newman, the other per- son who was wounded at the same time, it is supposed cauoot recover. JV'Hfff/ fomi/a/.— Capt. Uourne, o! the brig llipjio- menes, arrived at New York in 16 days from Curacea, states that a brotlier-in-law of i)r. Quarker.boss, of this city, nrrived at Ciiracoa on the 22d ult. in a schr. from St. 'Ihomas, which place he left on the 15th of August, under convoy of the IJ. S. ichooner Grampus. '1 his gentleman informed, that the same evening he sailed from ir"t. Thomas, (he Grampus was dogged sev- eral hour.s by the privateer Panchclta, of Porto liico — that in the morning the Giampus gave chase to the piivateer, then under English colors, afterwards chang- ed to Spanish. After bi ing liailed, and informed of the character of the Cranjpus, the privateer fired a broadside into her. The Grampus then sheared along- side, and put a full broadside into the privateer, when she immediately surrendereil, was boarded, and found iu a sinking condition, with eleven men killed and wounded. The Grampus towed her into St. Thomas the same night. The Panchetta mounted 8 twelve pounders and a long torn, and had 92 men. K. Y. Statesman. Khdion in If'crmont. — Although all tlie returns of votes for Representatives to Congress had not been published at the date of our last accounts from that quarter, there is but little doubt but that Messrs. R. C. .Mallary, Charles Rich, S. C. Crafts, D. Azro A. Buck, and W. C. Bradley are elected. By the last accounts the Yellow Fever continues at New York with unabated malignity. Boston Cotton. — Several beautiful Cotton Trees are now ripening at Doct. Wakefield's, and at Mr. S. A. Shed's, in Milk street. Some of the trees contain more than a dozen pods, and are worth the attention of the- curious to examine them. Mr. Ware, of Salem, has this year raised a watev melon weighing over forty pounds, and several weigh- ing from 30 to 40. Mr. Israel Putnam, of the sanie town, piclced an ap- ple from his garden a few days since, which weighed one pound Jiie and an half ounces .' Green Com in September. — Last Saturday, Indian corn in the milk, raised from Alabama seed, by a per- son in Cranston, was sold in our market at 20 cents a dozen. On an ear of average size we counted 18 rows and B46 kernels. Our gardeners will consult their in- terest by the cultivation of this new variety, as it comes in when peas, bean?, and the ordinary kinds of corn are out of season. — Providence Journal. Worcester Canal. — We learn from a gentleman who has been on the route now- under survey, that the whole descent, from V\"orci ste r Great Pond to 'W'oonsoket falls is found to be 450 feet. This is much more than was anticipated, and must enhance, considerably, the expense of the work. Anotlier circumstance, however, appears very favourable. On the route, as far as it has been surveyed, the excavation will be very easy, as but little rock is found near the surface. — ibid, Jf'aler Spnuls on Lake Erie. — Yesterday about ten o'clock, A. M. (says the Cleveland Herald of Aug. 22,) while a cloud hung over the lake, apparently at the distance of about ten miles, the people of this village were entertained at the sight of several water-spouts, which formed themselves, one after another, from the lake to the cloud. They were four in number, of different sizes, and a considerable dist.ance from tach other. The cloud being high, and the spouts being black and perpendicular, resembling huge pillars of some mighty fabric, and occasionally changing in their positions, presented a prospect both grand and beauti- ful. They continued visible for some length of time, and their disappearance was followed by the falling of rain in torents on the lake, and a slight shower extend- ing itself to this village. A gentleman in Perth, Scotland, has a hen which lately hatched 20 chickens out of 13 eggs ! WANTED IMMEDIATELY, AN active, intelligent Boy, 15 or 16 years of age, as an Apprentice to the Printing business. Inquire at the Farmer Office. Sept. 21. ()4 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. .a Mjljy TO .MY MLVD. Hince wcillock'3 in vogue, and old maids little priz'd, To all bachelors greeting, these lines are preniis'd ; I'm a maid that would marry, but where shall 1 find, (I wiih not for fortune) a man to my miud. iS'ot the dandy, who's hardly of masculine race, In love with his own precious figure and face ; jVot the free-thinking rake, whom no morals can Liud, Neither this nor the other's the man to my mind. Not the ruby fac'd sot that topes, world without end, Not the drone, who ean't relish his bottle and friend. Not the fool that's too fond, no- the churl that's unkind, Neither this — that — nor t'olher's the man to my mind. liut the youth in whom merit and sense may conspire, AVhoni the brave must esteem, and the fair should ad- mire ; In whose heart love and truth are with honor combin'd, This — this — and no other's the man to my mind. A M.i.\ A'OT TO MY MIA'D. From the man wliom I love, though my heart I disguise, 1 will freely describe the wretch 1 de?pise ; And if he has sense but to balance a straw. He will sure take the hint from the picture 1 draw. A wit without sense, without fancy a beau, Like a parrot he chatters, and struts like a crow ; A peacock in pride, in grimace a baboon, In courage a hind, in conceit a gascoon. As a vulture rapacious, in falsehood a fox. Inconstant as waves, and unfeeling as rocks ; As a tyger ferocious, perverse as a hog, In mischief an ape, and in fawning a dog. In a word, to sum up all his talents together, Ilis heart is of lead, and his brain is of feather ; Yet if he has sense but to balance a straw, lie will sure take the hint from the picture I draw. MISCELLANEOUS. LADIES— BEWARE! [The following will serve as a caution to females, a- gainst the impositions which are often practiced upon them, to their mortification, shame and ruin. Let them prefer, as suitors and husbands, those whose characters and circumstances are known to them, and not trust to the oily tongues, and vain pretensions of foreigners and strangers, who, under the disguise of a fine dress, and genteel manners, often conceal the most villainous de- signs.]— Salem Regislcr. Reported for thf Philadtlpkia Union. A European, wlio had a wife and several chil- dren in his own country, not thinking himself well treated by his wife's family, determined, as soon as he could compass fifty j)ounds, to try his fortune in America. After he arrived in Phi- ladelphia, reflecting; that he was a great way from home, and that many circumstances might happen here which would never be heard of in Europe, he changed his name and took up his abode at a hotel, where his fifty pounds were soon reduced to 1 dollar 18 3-1 cents. He then thought it time to look out for other quarters, and accordingly removed very quietly to a pri- vate boarding house, where a tine young woman soon attracted his attention. In due time she consented to become his bride, and the marriage ceremony was properly solemnized. Hitherto nothing iiad occurred to give reason to suppose that our gentleman was any how dif- ferent from what he professed to be, unless it were an odd letter whicit was no»v and then picked up about tlic house, addressed to Mr. D. O. S. but which excited more amusement than suspicion. On a certain day, however, when he walked out with his bride, he was met by a countryman of his, who, after accosting him with great familiarity, eiupiired after the health of his wife and children. Our gentleman re- turned the salutation with cordiality, but per- ceiving his fair companion was alarmed by the interrogation, he abruptly broke olT the conver- sation with the stranger. The rest of the al'ter- noon was spent in accounting to the lady for the strange scene which he had lately witnessed, hujuiring after the health of the wile and chil- dren of unmarried men was, he said, a very common joke in liis own country, and she, having an interest in being deceived, believed him. His counti'} man, however, offended at the abruptness of his conduct, dogged him home, and a few days afterwards called to enquire for him by his real name. The letters were then remembered, and the fears of an old lady in the family so alarmed, that she laid infor- mation before a magistrate, who sent an in- vitation to our gentleman to appear before him. " Ah !"' said he, at'ter he had read the sum- mons, " another invitation to dinner. Upon my honour, if I could eat fifty dinners a day 1 might have them all. However I shall accept of this, as I know the giver is a good kind of a fellow." He went accordingly, and, though surprised to find his wife and some of her relations there before him, still had the ef- frontery to offer the magistrate his hand. This the latter refused to receive till he had read the charges against him — bigamy and imposition. '"• Good God, Sir," said our gentleman, " don't stain my honor with such imputations. Allow me till to morrow and I will produce letters and witnesses that will avouch for my respecta- bility." The magistrate, after consulting with the parties agreed to this arrangement ; but that night our gentleman disappeared and has not been heard of since. From the New York Statesman. " Love has ei/fs." — The Westchester Herald states, that a villain of the name of William Rosier, was detected in robbing the store of Michael Marks, by a young lady and gentleman who, as the term goes, wore keeping company in the house opposite the scene of burglary. — While tliey were prolonging their midnight vigils, indulging in some wakeful dreams of nuptial felicity, they saw the villain enter the store through the window, and when he was cleverly in, young Damon stepped across tlie road, made all last, and gave the alarm, which resulted in the easy apprehension of Rosier.— The paragraph cautions all robbers to beware of attempting depredations bettu'een the hours of ten on Sumluii evening, and dcnj-break on MoniUiy morning, which is " the witching time of night" with village lovers. Fortunate would we be, if we had guards equally wakeful in the infected district. Old Seed. — However^ valuable ancestry may he in the eye of a man of family, it is in little estimation in that of iarniers, if we may judge by the reply a country lad made to one who was boasting of his nnci'ent /ujHi/y. "So much the worse for thee" — said he — " every body knows the older the seed, tlic worse the crop." From the .Vmtrican Statesman. The Office of the Philadelphia Union lat^h took tire. The manner in which the accidi li occurred is very pleasantly related in the fol lowing paragraph, which subsequently appear ed in that paper : — •' The report which the wags are circulatinj that the fire at our office on Thursday eveninj originated in the spontaneous combustion of ! number of political articles of a highly inflano niatory character, is totally destitute of founds tion. We do not deal in such dangerous wart i The truth is, that our '^ devil" was endeavoii ing to purify a number of communications b fire, but not being careful enough of the pre cess, the flames unfortunately spread to a nuir, her of poems in manuscript, (the collections th last two years,) which, by reason of the spin contained in them, made a fine crackling blaa and Anally exhaled in fumes ethereal. The went off in a most glorious smoke, but burne so furiously at flrst as to scorch the wainscotin of the room, and bum a hole through the floo; We trust that our poetical friends will now se the propriety of not burdening us in future wit so many original verses. We always considere them very dangerous articles." MR. BRAH..IM, THE SI.NGER. It is reported that this stage songster is aboi to honor us by leaving England to sing for i one year, for the moderate sum of forty ihousai dollars ! The editors of the iS^ational Intelligei cer, noticing this matter, have observed, " \\ shall be glad to hear what our friend Niles wi say to this folly." All that is needful to say easily said — '• friend Niles" pays nothing England for his coats, and will not pay any thit to transient Englishmen for songs — though plea cd to hear good music on rightful occasions ai reasonable terms. Yet the managers of oi theatres may make money by exposing th musical biped to the public — and persons w spend ten or twenty dollars to hear him, wl have defrauded their honest creditors out scores of thousands, or suffer themselves to 1 dunned by those who supply them with jni for their coffee and tea. It is even yet tl fashion rather to be extravagant than to I honest — though the state of society is evident improving; more perhaps, of necessity, thf from inclination. — JS'iles'' Register. Jl'mCIAL PLEASANTRY. A lawyer, now deceased, a celebrated wa was pleading before a Scotch Judge with whu he was on most intimate terms. Happening have a client, a female, defendant in an actio of the name of Tickle, he commenced his spee( in the following humorous strain : — " Tickl my client, the defendant, my lord." The auil tors, amused with the oddity of the speec were almost driven into hysterics of lauglitc by the Judge replying — "Tickle her yoursel Harry ; you're as able to do it as L" LA FONTAINE. A worthy Antiquary was one day edifying tl French academy with a monstrous long del: of the comparative price of commodities at d ferent periods, when La Fontaine observe " cet homme cenuait Ic prix de tout excepte temps." " This man knows the price of cvci thing except time.'''' NEW ENGLAND FARMER. Publialu-d every Saturday, by THOMAS W. SHK.PARi:), Rostrs' Biiildin-, Con.=;rtss Street, Boston ; at S'J,.')0 per ami, in advance, or $ii,OU at the clr.se nl Ih. y( ai Vol. I. BOSTON, SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 1822. No. 9. CONSIDERATIONS ON THE NECESSITt OF ESTABLISHTNC AN AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE, and liaviiig more of the children of wealthy citizen? educated i'or the PROFESSION OF FARMING. {Cuncliidcd from p. 58.) \Vlt;it the precise construction, orgiinization, and disci jiline of the agrictiitural co'i!e2;e ongUt to be, 1 shall not at present presume to define. They ousible, the sole produce of die farm, and that will be made, independent of all other sources, to yield in abiindance, all the prime luxuries of life. If cheering or exhilarating beverages arc nccctsnry, and some thing of the kind scetns, from the practice of all ages, to be allowable, if not actually beneficial, while reason does not condemn their use in moderation, we have them of the most inoxious kind and the most grateful variety, v>-ithout resorting to places beyond our own territories for them. Our cider, vvere it not for the unaccountable prejudices of taste, would be deemed superior to the ordinary wines of Europe ; and every family, wiih a little in- struction in the process, could make its own beer of suflicicnt excellence, or it might be had_ from the best brewers by a ready exchange of produce. To send our money abroad for any -uch luxuries cannot then be considered other- wise than as a wanton waste of property and a mistaken apprehension of what is necessary to support true dignify of character. A family of miildling size will, in the course of a year, use thirl ij-five dollars worth of colfec, and probably its tea and sugar for suppers will cost as much, making seventy dollars. This is a serious sum to be paid every year for mere Ua-aries by any (armer and especially by new beginners : It is the interest of one thousa7id dollars, for which a little farm might be bought and many a good one rented. But this is only a [Kirt of the useless expenses of our countrymen. Add to it what is laid out for spiritous liquors without taking into the account unnecessary fineries of foreign manufacture, and many other useless items, and the amount will appear still more serious. If any thing can be done towards this refor- mation by the agricultural college, thus second- 1 66 ISEW ENGLAND FARiMER. ed by agricultural societies, the immense good ^ it may do even in this incidental bratich ot'its objects, presents its importance in a point of view that must still more forcibly arrest our at- tention. Here an enchanting picture might be drawn of the happiness which will intermingle itself with the little hardships of the tasks to be per- formed by the young gentlemen that shall till 8uch a college ; tasks which, notwithstamling the sternness of their aspect, as pourtrayed in this treatise, will, by habit, ha\e every repulsive feature obliterated, and become attractive by the group of pleasures that will, on a more in- timate acquaintance, be found playing around them ; but enouj^h has already been said to give an idea of what the agriculture! College is intended to be, and what may be expected I'rom it. I shall take leave of the subject by recom- mending it to the serious consideration of the legislature, confident that, if it be deliberately examined, there will be a unanimous disposition to give it a being, and a si(y>^ocf commensurate with the importance of the purposes intended to be effected by it. BRIGHTON CATTLE SHOW Rules and Regulutiuns to be observed at the Ccttlc Shoa:, Exinhilion of .Mamifacturcs, Ploiigliing Alatclt, and Public Sale of Animals and .Manu- factures, at Brighton, on Wedaesdatj the 9th, 'and niiirsday the lOtk of October, l»''i2. 1. — As the Names of the Conimitloos for awarding Premiums will be published, all per- sons having business will attend their own Ani- mals or Articles, at 9 o'clock each day, as it is intended that the Committees should commence their examination, punctually, at that hour ; and at 1 o'clock, on Wednesday, the 9th Oct. a procession vvill be formed iu the spaceuay be- tween the Pens, by the Marshals, and \vill pro- ceed to the Meeting House, where Prayers will be offered, and an Address delivered by the Hon. Timothy Pickeri.no. U. — All Stock, entered tor Premium, must be put in the Pens at 8, A. M. according to the number.^ on their Tickets, as furnished by the Clerk, and under the direction of the Marshals. III.— Gentlemen who have fine Aniinids, not intended to be oflered tor Premiums, will grati- ly the Society by exhibiting them in their Field, where Pens will be allotted to them, subject to the same rules with tho.-e who con- tend tor Premiums. IV. — No Animal can be removed from the Pens but by permission of a Marshal or Trustee. V. — The avenue between t!ie ranges of the Pens, is intended exclusively for the Trustees, Cominiitees. Members of the Societij, and invited persons ; it is therefore requested and expected, that no other person enter the .=ame, but at the invitation of one of the Trustees; but the Field will be free to all. VI. — All Articles, under the head fif " Do- mestic Manufacture,"' it mu'. the operation, if necessary, may be repeated. preserving meat. Meat surrounded by chaix;oal will keep for months. BED EUGS. The last American edition of Willich's Do- mestic Encyclopedia contains fho following re- cij)es against those nauseous insects : Take of the highest rectified spirit of wine, half a pint ; newly distilled spirit of turpentine, I half a pint; mix them together, and crunibb^ into it an ounce of camphor, which will dissolve in a few minutes ; shake the whole well togeth- er, and with a piece of sponge or brush dipped into it, anoint the bed or furniture in which those vermin harbor and breed, and it will, in- fallibly, destroy both them and their nits. — Should any bug or bugs happen to appear after once using it, the application must be repeated, and at the same time some of the mixture pour- ed into the joints and holes of the bedstead and head-board. Bedsteads that have much wood work require to be taken down bcl'ore thoy can be thoroughly cleansed of these vermin ; but NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 67 others may be perfectly cured without that trouble. It is advisable to perform this work in the day time, lest the spirit contained in the mixture take fire from the candle, while using; it, and occasion serious damage. 2. Dissolve 100 grains of corrosive sublimate in a pint of brandy : use it with the feather of a quill. 3. Half an ounce of corrosive sublimate, pow- dered and dissolved in a quart of spirits makes an effectual wash for bedsteads infested by bugs. They must be previously scrubbed with cold water and well dried. In England, cast iron bedsteads are much in use for hospitals, &.c. and are recommended as aflordmg no harbor for vermin. THE BRF.EDINC OF CATTLE. Dr. Cooper, Editor of the last .■\nicrican edi- tion of Dr. VVillich's Domestic Encyclo[)edia, observes tliat — '> The whole art of breeding animals and vegetables for particular purposes, may be included in the direction, choose those animals or vegetables to propagate from, that pos- sess the qualities yoii wis/i to propagate in the greatest perfection.'''' To destroy the bee miller. — This troublesome insect is making great ravages among the bees in this vicinity. .\ subscriber has requested us to state that he had discovered an effectual me- thod of destroying them, which is as follows ; To a pint of sweetened water, (sweetened with sugar or honey) add a half a gill of vinegar ; set this in an open vessel on the top of the hive ; and at night, when the miller comes to his work of destruction, he will prefer this composition, and diving into it, will immediately drown. — This simple method, our intormnnt assures us, is certain of success. At ail events it is worthy of attention ; and wc would recommend to the owners of bees to make a trial of it. — Lake George paper. From the Old Colony Memorial. Sir — The inquiry- which has been instituted in the Memorial respecting the worms which are making such devastation of the grass and Indian corn, and the observations consequent thereof, have drawn so much attention to the subject, as to ascertain, that this is not '• a new thing under the sun.'' In the annals of the Cot- ton Family (o«e of the most respectable in the Commonwealth) which have been continued from the first settlement of the country, are not- ed many extraordinary events and seasons (ex- traneous of the concerns of the familv :) among others it is there noted, that " 1745 was re- markable for the destructive effects of the worms which almost destroyed the grass." There is also now living in tliis vicinity, a respectable farmer, aged 87, who well remembers that when a boy, he with others, amused themselves by rolling up the sward, which was destroyed by the worms, striving who could make the largest roll — allowing this man to have been 10 years old at that time, and it reduces it to 174,'), the period noted in the annals ; and he further states, the worms were of similar appearance of those now present. — There arc also others who state, that a year during the revolutionary war they made great ravages both in the corn and grass. From these facts perhaps it may be ^ferred that their appearance is rather ;ienV/- ical than extraordinary, and if Ihe difTcreut times of their appearance had been a// ob-^crved and noted, with the precision they are in the annals above alluded to, we might perhaps, ere now have ascertained the period of their expected return, and possibly some means of counteract- ing or limiting their ravages. The greatest advantage perhaps that may now be expected to be derived from the attention excited to this subject, i.s the obtaining more minute oI;serva- tions of the times of their appearance — the time of their continuance — and, if possible, the man- ner of their reproduction, and whether their ap- penrance is consequent of a season remarkable for drought. Yours, P. A gentleman of this town (Plymouth) has con- structed a drill for the purpose of sowing Rula- Baga or other small seeds, which cmbrnccs (ho two great points of cheap-iess and siinplicilv. It may he constructed by any farmer of ordinnrv mechanical ingenuity with his band-s.iw, hatchet, and ktiile; it can l)e worked by a boy 12 years of age, and does the work with neatness and dispatch. — ibid. Campthor trees. — These frees grow in the Inl- and of Sumatra. A letter from a traveller pub- lished in an Edinburgh Journal, describes them as being often 100 feet perfectly straight to the first branch. The camphor is found in masses, in cracks and hollows in the heart of the tree. It is chiefly carried to China, v.here it bears a price about 30 times that of the China camphor. It is Ihe latter that is brought to Europe and America. It is obtained by boiling. The Sum- atra camphor tree also yields a powerful oil. It flowers only once in four or live years. Hampshire Gazette. superior to the English ; so that this extensive establishment may cmphalically be styled the pride of America. — I'oslon Gazette. Divining Rods. — It is stated in an extract pub- lished in the Palladium, that a piece of gold, silver, or any other metal, suspended to the end of a very slender switch, when carried over a mine of the same metal, will be so attracted as to bend the end of the stick. The writer tried an experiment with a pair of curious scales. He put a shilling piece of silver into one scale! and made the beam perfectly level bv weights in the other; a block of silver, 6 inches square and two inches thick, was then introduced un- der the scale that had the shilling ; that end of the beam dropped a quarter of an inch, and stood there until the block was removed and then immediately returned tn a level; this was repeated several times with the same efl'oct. iliid. The Cotton Manufiiclory, at Walfham, is own- ed by gentlemen of Boston, and is unqucslionably the most extensive of any one in Ihe I nitcd States. — We have heard it .stated that the ca[)i- tal is six hundred thousand dollars. About 500 workmen are emplyod, (but few boys or girls,) nearly allofwjiom are Americans. The week- ly expenses are about L'OOO dollars, which a- mount to u\n\;\r(\^ oC one hundred thousand dollars in a year. There are maimfacturod thirty-live thousand yards of clolii in a week, or in a'year, one million eight hundred and t-s:cHty thousand yards ! which cloth, for shirting and shectina:, is daily gaining credit in every section of the Un- ion. The machinery, too, is in many respects From the A'fU' York Commercial ^Idrerliecr, " But who i-i «he, Ilcr dark hair stroamhig on her lirow, her eye Wild, and her breast deep-h(avinj? .?he oft gazM .A.t distance lor the white sail, nor wept, nor spoke, And now is gone." .\ coroner's inquest was held at West Point on Thursday, on the body of a woman named M'Ginn, who wa^ found dead among the rocks at Ihe foot of the high clilT ^vhich overhangs the favorite retreat or grotto of Kosciusko, where that cflicer was wont to regale himself and friends with wine, after dinner, while stalioi'.ed there during the revoluticn. Tiie verdict acci- dental dpath. The r-rcumstances that have marked the life ef this humble woman, and her now unhappy husbanit, have been in some respects romantic ; and her coiidnct since her inar.'iage, has afford- ed one of the strongest examples of constant and ardent aliection. And what is most remarkable is, that it was the intensity of Ler alTection that caused her untimely death. It appears that they were acquainted in Ireland, but as no peculiar attachment existed between them, they emi- grated to this country separateh' and at ditlerent times. By accident they met, either at West Point or near Ihe Foundery on the opposite side of the river, a few years since; soon after, il was agreed that they would be married when- ever Patrick should have raised a certain sum of money. Patrick then went away and labored hard and lived prudently, un'il he had accom- idished that object, when he returned and was rewarded for his toil by the heart of the object of his alTection. Their lot was cast in the hum- ble v.alks of life, it is true, but never did a couple live more contented and happy than they. And whenever Patrick has been called away on business, if detained longer than v,as anticipated, she knew neither rest nor slumber until his re- turn. It is but a short time since Patrick went to Newburgli in a boat, ^vhcre he wa« detained all night, and such was the faithful wife, that she sat upon a cliff that overhangs the river, or walked upon the edge of the rugged steep, un- til Ihe boat came safe to the shore in the morn- ing. And often has she counted the solitary hours, as they passed tediously cu, in the same manner, while no sounds broke upon the dull hours of niglit, save the howling of the rude winds above, and Ihe dashing of the surge a- gainst the rocks below, mingled occasionally with the stern voice of the weather-beaten sen- tinel, as he slowly paced his solitary round or perchance the gloomy screech of the lone bird of night. On the inorning of (he fatal day, Patrick went in an open boat to the mills at pjiittermilk Falls, about two miles below, and she had prepared to visit soirie friends on the opposite side of the river, but would not go until his return. He was absent longer than was expected, and she repaired to the wonted place of watching, and seated herself upon a craig which shelved over the deep and dark abyss beneath. Night came on, and the faith- ful creature probably overcome by fatigue and anxiety, dropped asleep, fell, and was dashed in pieces. In the morning her shawl was found upon the rock, and her lifeless body among the fallen fragments, 1 70 feet below ! es iNEW ENGLAND FARMER. From the American Farmer. We are indebted to Mr. 'I'liomns Wiight, Of Kn?land, for a copy of " Tltc Gratiirs^ Ready Reckoner.,'''' and ■we have his assuraiiri- lliat the most confident reliance may be placed in its accuracy ; he told us that he would iiot|)-ar to piirchaje or sell extensively by this s'jidc, which has passed through three English editions, and has in that country gone into very general use. T he author of the tables, gives the required weight of ani- mals in stones, and we have converted these for the use of our subscribers, into pounds. The Graziers'' Ready Reckoner, or, a nsefitl guide for buying and selling Cattle, being a complete set of TABIjES, distinctly pointing out the Weight of Black Cattle Sheep, or Siaijie, from forty two, to eighteen hundred and tv;cnly, by ■measurement ; together u-ith directions, she.xcing the particular parts where the Cuttle are to be measured. By GF-onoE Hento.n, Bcrji'icksliirc Farmer. The third edition. Berziick : price 2s. 6d. sterling. PREFACE. Havinpf been often solicited to publish the followinfj T.\nLF.s of tliis Rfadv Ri;cko.\er, 1 am now prcvaib'J on to do =0. 1 by no means take the prai'^e of them as the inventor ; but liave unfIer2:onc a laborions task ia making out the calculations, which may be of use to the public. For frequently the Buyer and Seller are at a loss even in concluding a bargain, by not being judges of the weight of the article they are treating about. 1 have begun witli the Calculations at three stones,* which may be as low as is necessary for those who have a swine or calf to sell ; and who by no means have had such practical ex- perience as to be judges by the eye. It ma}' likewise be of service to those who have a teast above the common weight of cattle ; they may obtain a knowledge of his value, almost to a nicety, by taking the following dimension, and considering the value per stone, sinking offals. Take a string, put it round the beast, stand- ing square, just behind the shoulder blade, mea- sure on a foot rule the feet and inches he is in circumference, this is called the girth ; then with the string measure from that boue the tail ivhich plumbs the line with the hind part of the buttock, direct the line along the b:ick to the fore part of the shoulder blade, take the dimen- ?iion3 on the foot rule as before, which is length, opposite these figures stand the pounds. The girth and length of Black Cattle, Sheep, Calves or Swine being e.'iactly taken, according to the directions given above, and wrought by decimals, would occasion a nudtiplicity of fig- ures, which would be very troublesome in com- parison of the following Tables, which will an- swer exactly to the fore quarters of any of the Ibrementioned cattle, sinking the offal. To bring these useful Tables into as small a compass as possible, I have not taken notice of the half inches, which confines them to the one- fourth of the figures. But to bring thcn> to that point, when a beast miiitsurcs half an inch, ei- ther in girth or length, it is only taking the dilTerence of the leading figures. For instance, a beast measures in girth 0 feet 2 1-2 inches, length 5 feet 4 inches, the weight of 6 feet 3 inch 697 6 " 2 " . . . , 67C Difference J-9 * Of fourteen pounds each- Take the half of 19 which is 95 added to 678 and it will make 687.5. To render the following small treatise as gen- erally useful as I can, and to prevent the possi- bility of making any mistakes in taking the di- mensions of the Cattle in improper places, 1 have engaged an ingenious engraver to repre- sent the figure of an Ox. pointing out the par- ticular places where the dimensions must be taken, in order to ascertain their weight, and I flatter myself it will be a very useful addition. 7U6 lbs. To a generous public I now commit it, and hope, that, however it may succeed, the good- ness of my intention will be a sufiicient justifi- cation of my conduct. GEORGE RENTON". Girth. Length. Weight. ft. in. ft. in. pounds. 0 6 2 0 42 5 0 1 43 2 2 45 i 0 3 46 5 0 4 48 i 0 .'i 50 J ("» 6 52 i 45 i 46 48 \ 50 { 52 I 0 7 2 0 2 1 2 2 0 3 *j 4 2 5 53 i 0 6 56 5 2 7 57 I * 0 0 0 0 46 f 0 1 49 \ 50 { 2 2 2 3 53 { 55 57 \ 0 4 0 5 c> 6 . 59 , 60 J t> 7 2 8 03 2 9 2 0 50 \ (-> 1 52 2 2 55 0 0 V* 56 J f> 4 59 1 0 5 60 \ 63 0 6 2 7 64 C7 G9 1 '» 8 2 9 0 10 0 0 53 \ 2 1 65 { 2 2 57 5 2 3 60 \ 62 \ 0 4 0 6 64 { 67 5 0 6 0 7 69 1 2 8 71 J a n 73 S Gi'nh. Length. Weight, ft. in. ft. in. pounds. 2 10 2 10 76 2 II 77 2 11 3 2 2 0 56 2 1 59 2 2 62 2 3 C3 2 4 66 2 5 69 2 6 70 2 7 73 2 8 76 2 9 78 2 10 80 2 11 83 2 0 60 2 1 62 2 2 64 2 3 67 2 4 70 2 5 73 2 6 76 2 7 77 2 8 80 2 9 83 2 10 85 2 11 87 2 0 63 2 1 66 2 2 69 2 3 71 2 4 74 2 6 77 2 6 80 2 7 81 2 8 84 2 9 87 2 10 90 2 11 92 3 0 95 2 0 66 2 1 69 2 2 71 2 3 74 % 4 77 Girth, ft. in. 3 2 3 3 3 5 3 6 3 7 3 8 Length. Weight, ft. in. pounds. 2 10 2 II 3 0 2 0 2 1 2 2 2 3 2 4 2 5 2 6 2 7 2 8 i 9 2 10 2 11 3 0 o 2 8 2 9 2 10 2 II 3 0 2 3 2 4 2 5 2 6 2 7 2 8 2 0 2 10 2 11 3 0 1 2 3 2 4 2 5 1 0 2 7 2 8 2 9 2 10 2 11 3 0 3 1 3 2 3 3 3 4 2 3 2 4 2 5 2 6 2 7 2 8 2 9 2 10 2 11 3 0 3 9 80 83 85 88 91 94 97 99 70 73 76 80 83 85 88 91 94 97 99 102 106 83 87 90 92 95 98 102 105 108 111 88 91 94 98 101 104 108 111 113 118 120 123 126 132 92 95 98 102 105 109 112 116 119 123 126 129 133 136 97 99 104 108 111 113 118 122 125 129 132 136 140 143 101 104 108 112 116 119 123 Girth. Length. Weight, ft. in. ft. in. pounds. 3 8 2 10 2 II 3 0 3 9 3 10 3 11 2 4 2 5 2 6 2 7 2 8 2 9 2 10 2 11 3 0 2 10 2 11 3 0 2 6 2 7 2 8 2 9 2 10 2 11 3 0 4 0 2 6 2 7 2 8 2 9 2 10 2 11 3 0 3 8 3 9 3 10 2 6 2 7 2 8 2 9 2 10 2 n 3 0 3 1 3 2 3 3 126 130 134 139 141 14S 150 153 157 109 113 11a 122 125 129 133 137 141 146 148 153 157 161 165 113 118 123 126 130 134 139 143 147 151 155 160 164 168 172 129 133 137 141 149 150 154 158 162 167 171 175 179 183 188 134 139 - 143 I 147 , ]" i loo I 16) 165 169 174 173 182 188 192 „ 196 202 206 140 144 148 1.53 158 162 168 172 178 182 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 69 Girth. Length. Weight. | Girth. Length. Weight. Girth. Length. Weight. ^ Girth. Length. Weight. Girth. Length Wtiglit. Girth. Length. Weight. ft. in. ft. in. pounds. 5 ft. in. ft. in. pounds. ft. in. ft. in. pounds. ft. in. ft. in. pounds. It. in. ft. in. pounds. ft. in. ft. in. pounds. 4 1 3 4 186 ; 190 4 6 3 3 220 4 11 3 4 270 5 3 4 7 424 5 8 4 0 431 6 0 5 2 623 3 5 3 4 225 3 5 27 7 4 8 431 4 1 438 : 5 3 634 3 6 196 3 5 231 3 6 284 4 9 437 4 2 447 5 4 643 3 7 200 204 • 3 0 237 3 7 291 4 10 447 4 3 456 5 5 654 3 8 3 7 242 3 8 298 4 11 455 , 4 4 465 5 6 665 3 9 210 3 8 248 3 9 305 i 311 5 5 0 462 4 5 475 483 5 5 7 672 3 10 214 3 9 253 3 10 4 6 3 10 260 3 11 318 5 4 3 8 319 4 7 493 6 14 3 528 4 2 2 G 144 3 11 266 4 0 325 3 9 357 4 8 501 4 4 538 2 7 148 4 0 271 4 1 332 i 3 10 364 4 9 511 4 5 5)6 2 8 154 4 2 337 ! 3 11 372 4 10 518 I 4 6 555 2 9 158 i •17 2 8 188 4 3 346 ! 4 0 381 4 11 528 4 7 568 2 10 164 2 9 193 4 4 351 ! 4 1 389 6 0 538 4 8 578 2 11 168 174 179 I 2 10 199 4 2 396 5 1 546 4 9 589 3 0 2 11 204 5 0 3 6 294 J 4 3 405 5 2 554 4 10 599 3 1 3 0 211 3 7 301 4 4 409 5 3 564 4 11 605 3 2 183 3 1 217 3 8 307 1 4 5 421 S 4 573 5 0 622 3 9 188 3 2 223 3 9 314 321 4 6 428 5 1 631 3 4 193 3 3 228 3 10 4 7 437 5 9 4 0 441 5 2 641 3 5 197 : 3 4 234 3 11 328 336 4 8 444 4 1 451 5 3 652 3 6 203 : 3 5 239 4 0 4 9 452 4 2 462 5 4 662 3 7 207 213 3 6 246 4 1 342 4 10 461 4 3 476 5 5 672 3 8 3 7 252 4 2 3-19 4 11 469 4 4 483 5 6 683 3 9 217 3 8 258 4 3 353 5 0 476 4 5 490 5 7 693 3 10 523 3 9 263 4 4 363 370 5 1 484 4 6 500 5 8 703 3 10 270 4 5 5 2 493 4 7 508 4 3 2 6 150 3 11 276 4 6 378 384 4 8 517 6 2 4 3 542 2 7 155 4 0 2!il 4 7 5 6 3 8 360 4 9 526 4 4 552 2 8 161 i 4 8 391 3 9 368 4 10 536 4 S 501 2 9 165 4 8 2 8 193 4 9 398 3 10 377 4 11 546 4 6 572 2 10 171 2 9 199 4 10 402 3 11 385 5 0 554 : 4 7 582 2 11 177 2 10 206 4 11 412 4 0 393 5 1 564 ' 4 8 592 3 0 182 2 11 211 5 0 420 4 1 399 5 2 573 ' 4 9 605 3 1 186 190 3 0 217 304 311 318 4 2 407 5 3s 581 4 10 615 3 2 3 1 224 5 13 6 4 3 416 5 4 590 4 11 625 3 3 196 3 2 230 3 7 4 4 424 5 0 636 3 4 202 207 3 3 235 3 8 4 5 433 5 10 4 0 456 465 475 5 1 647 3 5 3 4 242 3 9 325 4 6 441 4 1 6 2 656 3 6 211 3 5 248 3 10 332 337 4 7 449 4 2 5 3 667 3 7 216 3 6 255 3 11 4 8 456 4 3 487 5 4 678 3 8 221 3 7 260 4 0 343 4 9 4 10 465 4 4 496 604 5 5 689 3 9 227 3 8 266 4 1 354 472 4 5 5 6 700 3 10 232 3 9 272 4 2 358 4 11 482 4 6 514 6 7 710 3 10 279 4 3 368 5 0 5 1 490 4 7 522 5 8 720 4 4 2 6 137 3 11 284 4 4 375 498 4 8 532 5 9 732 2 7 161 167 4 0 291 4 5 382 4 9 542 5 10 742 2 8 4 6 391 5 6 3 8 371 4 10 550 5 11 752 2 9 172 4 9 2 10 214 4 7 398 ' 3 9 ; 3 )0 : 3 11 4 0 379 4 11 560 6 3 4 3 2 10 178 2 11 220 4 8 403 489 5 0 570 556 2 11 183 3 0 227 4 9 412 393 5 1 580 4 4. 566 3 0 189 3 1 232 4 10 419 406 5 2 588 4 5 578 3 1 195 3 2 239 4 11 423 4 1 414 5 3 699 4 6 591 3 2 199 : 3 3 245 5 0 434 4 2 4 3 423 5 4 608 4 7 599 3 3 203 3 4 252 431 5 5 €17 4 8 610 3 4 209 3 5 258 5 2 3 6 312 4 4 438 5 6 627 4 9 622 3 5 214 3 6 265 3 7 319 4 5 4 6 4 '7 448 % 4 10 631 3 6 220 3 7 270 3 8 326 456 5 11 4 0 469 4 11 5 0 644 3 7 224 ! 3 8 277 3 9 333 465 4 1 479 655 3 8 230 3 9 283 3 10 342 4 8 472 4 2 489 5 1 666 3 9 235 3 10 290 3 11 350 4 9 4 10 582 4 3 500 ; 5 2 675 3 10 241 3 11 295 4 0 360 490 4 4 510 ; 5 3 686 4 0 302 4 1 3G5 4 11 ;" 5 0 5 1 5 2 500 4 5 518 1 6 4 697 4 5 2 8 174 4 1 308 4 2 372 608 4 6 528 ; 5 5 708 2 9 179 : 4 2 315 4 3 381 517 4 7 538 ; 5 6 720 2 10 185 4 4 388 524 4 8 547 : 5 7 731 2 11 190 ; 4 10 3 0 234 4 5 395 4 9 557 : 5 8 741 3 0 196 ; 3 1 ; 3 2 239 4 6 403 ' G 7 3 8 3 9 382 4 10 570 5 9 753 3 1 202 246 4 7 410 391 4 11 577 5 10 763 3 2 207 ; 3 3 253 4 8 417 3 10 400 5 0 587 5 11 774 3 3 213 3 4 260 4 9 426 3 11 4 0 4 1 4 2 410 5 1 596 3 4 217 3 5 267 4 10 433 420 5 2 606 6 4 4 3 571 3 5 223 3 6 273 4 11 440 427 5 3 616 4 4 681 3 6 228 ; 3 7 279 5 0 448 435 5 4 626 4 5 592 3 7 234 : 3 8 286 ; 4 3 ; 4 4 444 5 5 635 4 6 605 3 8 239 i 3 9 293 5 3 3 6 323 452 5 6 645 4 7 615 3 9 245 3 10 300 3 7 330 i 4 5 4 6 4 7 4 8 4 9 462 4 8 626 3 10 251 ; 3 11 307 3 8 339 470 6 0 4 3 514 4 9 638 3 11 256 ; 4 0 314 3 9 346 479 4 4 524 4 10 647 4 0 262 : 4 1 319 3 10 354 487 4 5 533 4 11 659 4 2 326 3 11 361 497 4 6 543 5 0 672 4 6 2 8 181 4 3 4 4 332 4 0 370 4 10 505 4 7 550 5 1 682 2 9 186 339 4 1 378 4 11 514 4 8 563 5 2 693 2 10 192 4 2 385 5 0 522 4 9 574 5 3 706 2 11 197 4 11 3 0 ; 3 1 3 2 244 4 3 393 5 1 532 4 10 584 5 4 715 3 0 203 249 4 4 400 : 5 2 540 4 11 591 5 5 727 3 1 209 256 4 5 412 : 5 3 549 5 0 603 ; 5 6 ! 6 7 739 3 2 214 ; 3- 3 263 4 6 416 5 1 615 749 70 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. Girth. Length. Weight ft. in. ft. in. pounds 6 4 5 8 760 5 9 773 5 10 783 6 11 792 8 5 4 3 587 4 4 598 4 5 607 4 6 C20 4 7 6J3 4 8 643 4 9 655 4 10 666 4 11 678 5 0 689 5 1 700 5 2 710 5 3 722 5 4 734 5 5 745 5 6 7i7 5 7 769 5 8 778 5 9 790 5 10 802 5 11 813 6 0 825 6 6 4 3 605 4 4 615 4 5 626 4 6 643 4 7 651 4 8 661 4 9 672 4 10 685 4 11 693 5 0 700 5 1 717 5 2 728 5 3 741 5 4 752 5 5 763 5 6 776 5 7 787 5 8 798 5 9 on 5 10 822 5 11- 834 6 0 846 6 1 859 0 7 4 6 655 4 7 666 4 8 678 4 9 690 4 10 703 4 11 715 5 0 727 5 1 739 5 2 750 5 3 763 5 4 774 5 5 7f!7 5 6 799 5 7 812 5 8 823 5 9 836 6 10 847 5 11 860 6 0 872 C 1 886 6 2 896 6 3 909 G 4 920 6 3 5 0 743 5 1 756 .5 2 7G7 .^j 3 7!I0 5 4 792 r, 5 805 .I 6 818 5 7 830 5 8 841 5 9 855 5 10 867 Girth. Length. \\ light. ft. in. ft. in. pounds. 6 8 6 9 6 10 6 11 7 0 5 11 6 0 6 7 5 0 5 9 5 10 5 11 6 0 6 1 6 2 6 6 6 6 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 3 4 5 6 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 5 10 5 11 6 0 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 5 9 5 10 5 11 6 0 879 892 904 916 928 941 955 967 764 777 790 802 015 827 840 853 865 878 090 903 917 930 942 955 967 9f;o 993 7S3 795 808 822 834 047 8C0 07 1 085 099 913 927 939 952 965 977 990 1004 1016 802 816 829 843 855 869 883 896 909 923 937 951 963 976 988 1002 1016 1030 1043 1057 5 3 862 5 4 876 5 5 890 5 6 904 5 7 917 5 8 931 5 9 945 5 10 959 5 11 973 fi 0 907 6 1 1001 6 2 1014 6 3 1028 6 4 1042 6 5 1056 6 6 1070 6 7 1084 (iirth. ft. in. 7 0 7 1 7 3 7 4 Length. Weight, ft. in. pounds. 6 8 1096 6 9 1110 5 3 5 4 5 5 5 6 5 7 5 8 5 9 5 10 5 11 6 0 6 10 5 3 5 4 5 5 5 6 5 7 5 8 5 9 5 10 5 11 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 8 6 9 6 10 5 10 5 11 6 0 6 10 6 11 083 897 911 925 939 953 967 901 995 1009 1023 10J6 1051 1063 1079 1093 1107 1121 1135 1140 903 916 930 945 960 974 988 1002 1016 1032 1046 1060 1075 1089 1103 1117 1120 1147 1161 1175 925 939 955 969 984 998 1014 1028 1043 1058 1072 1006 1102 1116 1130 1145 1159 1175 1190 1204 1219 5 3 946 5 4 962 5 5 977 5 6 991 5 7 1097 5 8 1021 5 9 1037 5 10 1051 5 11 1067 6 0 1082 6 1 109G 6 2 1112 6 3 1127 6 4 1141 6 5 1156 6 6 1172 6 7 1107 6 8 1201 6 9 1217 Girth. Length Weight. Girth. Lei igth.AV.ight ft. in. ft. in. pounds. ft. in. ft. in. pounds 7 5 5 6 1014 7 9 6 1 1225 5 7 1026 6 o 1242 5 8 1044 6 3 1260 5 9 1060 6 4 1275 5 10 1075 6 5 1292 5 11 1091 6 6 1310 6 0 1106 6 7 1326 6 1 1121 6 8 1343 6 o 1137 6 9 1361 6 3 1152 6 10 1376 6 4 1168 6 11 1393 6 5 1182 7 0 1410 6 6 1196 7 1 1427 6 7 1212 6 8 1228 7 10 5 6 1133 6 9 1243 5 7 1149 6 10 1259 5 8 1165 6 11 1275 5 9 1183 7 0 1291 5 10 1200 5 11 1218 7 e- 5 6 1037 6 0 1235 5 7 1054 6 1 1252 5 8 1070 6 2 1268 5 9 1085 6 3 1285 5 10 1100 6 4 1303 5 11 1116 6 5 1320 6 0 1133 6 6 1338 6 1 1148 6 7 1355 6 2 1163 6 8 1372 6 3 1179 6 9 1390 6 4 1194 6 10 1406 6 5 1211 6 11 1424 6 6 1226 7 0 1442 6 7 1242 7 1 1460 6 8 1257 7 2 1478 6 9 1270 6 10 1289 7 11 5 8 1191 6 11 1306 5 9 1210 7 0 1322 5 10 1226 5 11 1245 7 7 5 6 1063 6 0 1263 5 7 1078 6 1 1281 5 8 1093 6 2 1298 5 9 1110 6 3 1316 5 10 1126 6 4 1333 5 U 1142 6 5 1351 6 0 1159 6 6 1369 6 1 1175 6 7 1306 6 2 1190 6 8 1403 6 3 1207 6 9 1421 6 4 1222 6 10 1433 6 5 1239 6 11 1455 6 6 1256 7 0 1473 6 7 1271 7 1 1491 6 8 1207 7 o 1509 6 9 1302 6 10 1319 8 0 6 0 1289 6 11 1336 6 1 1308 7 0 1350 6 2 1326 6 3 1344 7 0 5 6 1085 6 4 1361 5 7 1100 6 5 1379 5 8 1119 0 6 1397 5 9 1134 6 7 1415 5 10 1149 6 8 1434 5 11 1165 6 9 1450 6 0 1100 6 10 1469 6 1 1196 6 11 1407 6 2 1212 7 0 1505 6 3 1229 7 1 1522 6 4 1246 7 2 1.539 6 5 1263 7 3 1554 6 6 1270 7 4 1575 6 7 1294 7 5 1595 6 8 1310 7 6 1613 6 9 1327 7 7 1630 6 10 1.344 6 11 1361 8 1 6 0 1316 7 0 1376 6 1 1338 6 2 1358 7 9 5 6 1109 6 3 1378 5 7 1124 6 4 1394 6 8 1141 6 5 1410 5 9 11.58 6 6 1427 5 10 1175 6 7 1444 5 11 1191 6 8 1462 6 0 1210 6 9 1480 (Jirth. Length. Weight ft. in. ft. in. pounds 8 1 6 10 1498 6 11 151« 7 0 1540 7 1 1.555 7 2 1571 7 3 1590 7 4 1609 7 5 1627 7 6 1646 7 7 1663 7 8 1680 8 2 6 0 1341 6 1 1359 6 2 1378 6 3 1396 6 4 1415 6 5 1434 6 6 \45J 6 7 1473 6 8 1492 6 9 1511 6 10 1527 6 11 1546 7 0 1565 7 1 1583 7 o 1602 7 3 1620 7 4 1639 7 5 1658 7 6 1677 7 7 1695 7 8 1714 8 3 6 0 1372 6 1 1390 6 d 1408 6 3 1428 6 4 1448 6 5 1466 6 6 1485 6 7 1504 6 0 1522 6 9 1.541 6 10 1561 6 11 1581 7 0 1600 7 1 1618 7 2 1637 7 3 1656 7 4 1676 7 5 1695 7 6 1715 7 7 1733 7 8 1751 8 4 6 0 1399 6 1 1417 6 2 1435 6 3 1455 6 4 1476 6 5 1495 6 6 1515 6 7 1533 6 8 15,53 6 9 1572 6 10 I,'; 92 6 11 1611 7 0 1fl30 7 1 1649 7 2 1669 7 3 1688 7 4 1708 7 5 1728 7 6 1747 7 7 1765 7 0 1785 8 5 6 0 1427 6 1 1446 6 2 1466 6 3 1485 6 4 1506 6 5 1526 6 6 1546 6 7 1565 6 6 1585 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 71 Girth. Length. Weight, ft. in. ft. in. pounds. 8 5 fi 9 1604 6 10 16-25 6 n 1645 7 0 1665 7 1 1684 7 'J 1701 Giith. Length. Weight, ft. in. ft. in. pounds. 7 3 8 5 1723 1744 1764 178!) 1803 18-24 FOR THE NEW E.1GLAND FARMER. Thomas G. Fcssendou, Esq. Dear Sir — In the last New England Farmer, (No. 8) I observed a communication from Pro- fessor Dana, on the subject of the correspon- dence between Gov. Wotcott and myself, pub- lished in tlie preceding number. That it should meet his approbation is to me highly flattering ; but I am constrained to express my regret that he should have given to a part of it, at least, so hasty a perusal as to imbibe erroneous im- pressions. The Professor seems to direct his attention chiefly to the bleaching process. The great object of inquiry was a cheap solvent, that would, without f'iing the color, " extract the glutinous matter and weaken the woody fibre," and so simple in its application as to be conve- niently used by '' operative farmers." It was remarked, however, that bleaching might follow in a considerable degree, but it was not neces- sary to combine it with the object in view ; as 1 trust it will appear that among the desiderata lor the extension of the linea manufacture, the bleaching, a process formerly very tedious and expensive, is so completely attained as to leave but little room for further improvement. And it should be considered that the bulk, and pro- bably the most profitable, of our linen manufac- tures for a number of years, or till the raw ma- terial is produced in much greater abundance, will require no bleaching ; for instance, all the different qualities of sail cloih and the immense supply oi coiton lagging for our Southern breth- ren. It is gratifying that the Professor is of the opinion that " Steam may be employed with decided advantage for separating the glutinous ■matter from flax ;" but my suggestions did not '' forbid its application when generated from alkaline solutions ;" on the contrary, it was stat- ed that steam from such solutions was supposed not to effect the decomposition of the cellular oil; and 1 felt justified in this remark, from having observed at the Patcrson munnfaclury, that the yarns, of which the sail cloth is made for the Navv, were submitted to the action of steam from an alkaline ley ; and, in the Essay referred to in the correspondence, it was stated that " the Navy-board expressly forbid boiling them in such ley," and that " it was from this •i precaution their canvass had the pliable, oily Peeling, which so much recommended it." The dea of preparing Jiax by steam which I sug years ago, when witnessing the process oi steam- ing those yarns. My suggestion of simple muriate of lime was foreign to the purposq of bleaching ; though lime, when combined with alkali, is a powerful agent in that process; but unless used with great caution destructive to the material. Indeed it is evident, that the use of lime in combination with any substances, that may be applied to flax, should be critically graduated ; and great cir- cumspection on this point cannot be too strong- ly inculcated. 1 remain very truly yours, S. W. POMEROY. Brighton, 25th Sept. 1822. NEW ENGLAND FARMER. than the Ihiest specimens of art, or the moat perfect productions of nature. As we propose hereafter to give a particular and official account of the proceedings of tlie day, we close for the present with these general observations. A late arrival at New York from London, brings English papers to the Cth of August. They coutaia little interesting matter. The King is about to visit Scotland, and great preparations are making to give him a splendid reception. Scotch songs overflowing with loyalty, and imbued with the genuine quintes- sence of poetry, will be poured out in profusion. Sir Walter Scott, it is said, is about to levy a contribution on the muses, and decorate his Majesty's temples with garlands picked from the peak of Parnassus. BOSTO:^ :— SATURDAY, SEPT. 28, 18'22. ;ested in the Essay, first occurred to me, two t We have republished, in this day's paper, the Gra- ziers'' Ready Reckoner, which we copied from a late number of the Baltimore American Farmer. It is not in our power to vouch for its accuracy, although we have no doubt but it is useful when its calculations arc applied to the breeds of cattle, &c. for which they were intended. Whether similar acbneasurements, and corresponding results would help us yankees in guessing the weight of live stock of our common breeds is more than we are able to say. The Table, at any rate, will prove useful if it turns the attention of Gra- ziers and Butchers to the subject ; and may at least furnish hints for the construction of similar tables, adapted to tlie weight and corresponding dimensions of our common American animals. We have received a communication on the subject of Cider, which we think well and judiciously writ- ten. It shall appear in our next. WORCESTER CATTLE SHOW. The Cattle Show, Exhibition of Manufactures, and Ploughing Match, which was holden at Worcester, on the 25th inst. deserves to be spoken of in terms of no ordinary eulogy. The weather was fine, the concourse numerous and respectable, and many of our first citi- zens, by their presence, and the apparent zeal and ani- mation with which they entered into the spirit of the day, evinced that they were impressed with the im- portance of those pursuits which this Farmers' and Manufacturers' anniversary was imended to encourage. Every thing conspired to evince that the mental and physical energies of the country were flowing in the right channel, and by the blessing of Heaven could not fail to eventuate in the full tide of national and individual prosperity. The zeal and emulation exhi- bited by the competitors at the Ploughing Match kept expectation (together with the other spectators) on tiptoe during the trial. The rivals in the Chariot Ra- ces of the Olympic Games could scarcely have con- tended with more energy and earnestness, nor could the lookers-on have shown more interest in their con- tests. The Sacred and Literary exercises of the day, the toasts, which were the cap sheares of the festivities, the Oratorio of Sacred Music, which seemed to solem- nize the amusements, and consecrate the business of the anniversary, were highly appropriate and gratif}'- ing. The whole proceedings were such as to awaken and excite those faculties which at once exliilarate and exalt human nature, and by being depicted in a great multitude of " happy human faces," aflbrd an exhibi- ion not less pleasing to the man of " good feelings," Yrllow Ferer at Kew Orleans A letter from New Orleans, to the editors of the Portsmouth Gazette, da- ted August 23, says, " The yellow fever has commenc- ed its dreadful ravages in this ill-fated city, and as is usual, principally confined to northern constitutions. It will probably continue till the cold weather puts a stop to its career." An invention has just been brought to perfection, ia England, for the cuttiug, spreading and twisting of the wicks of candles, by which piece of machinery a single person can cut, spread and twist five rods in one minute, by which more than one half of the manual la- bor in the making of candles is saved. A premium of a silver cup, of the value of $12, is of- fered by the Bourbon Agricultural Society, in Kentucky, lor the best sample o( whiskey, in a quantity not less than one barrel. We have had frequent occasions to mention the ex- traordinary growth of Apples the present season ; but the following exceeds any we have yet heard of. A gentleman of Marblehead informs us, that he saw an Apple weighed on Tuesday last, which grew in a gar- den in that to-wn, and the weight of which proved to be Iwfniy-three ounces; and three apples (of which the above was one) weighed together three pounds and three quarters. — Salem Gazette. It is said that the springs in the county of Plymouth have never been so low, as at present, withiu the me- mory of man, R)/e Coffee. — It is stated that Philadclpliia furnishes Boston -with about 5000 barrels of rye coffee in a year. 71i( Duel. — We do not believe a single instance ever occuired, so calculated to check the ridiculous and absurd practice of settling principles of honor by skill in sharp shooting, or questions of character at the muzzle of a pistol, as the controversy between Colonel Gumming and Mr. M'Uutfio. hi adililion to the state- ments previously furnished, the New York Mercantile Advertiser, on the authority of letters received there from -Augusta, says, at the time of the arrest, a large mililar;/ force uas on the spot .' What perfect Orlarido Fnriosos these combatants must be. Some pcopU- could he ke) t apart by two platoons or such a matter of infantry, but these champions required :\ targe mili- tary force to effect the purjjose. — The following article from the .Morning Post, we really think too severe ; but these champions must expect a kw rubs, as an offset for the great anxiety and trepidation they have caused among the public : RETURN of the killed, wounded and missing in the late wonderful Duel between Mr. .VDuJfie and Col. Cutnming. Killed — none. Wounded, in the back — one. Missing, at roll call — none, Shook hands — two. Seconds — safe, Horses and negro coachmen — alarmed, The Public — very much amused by the performers, who appear to have paid grtat attention to stage effect. Further particulars iu tlie bills of the play. — Bait. Pat. 72 IN'EW ENGLAND FARMER. Fiom .Mrs. C'olviu's Weekly Messenger. THE FOX JIKD AKT. BY JOHS B. C. '**«, KSa. An Ant would have her picture drawn. By Fox, the STu.vp.r of the lawn ; Whose matchless sketches bold and rare. Are all as like as they can slan. This tiny aul in Reynard's hole Said, ' 'niOii;,'h admir'd by cveiy .-uii!. .Still I am nuek as tos=ct-lamb, And would be painted as I am !' Good, said the Fox, that's my affair ; Pray, Ma'am, be seated in the chaii-. Bhc sfjuats. Conceit began to fret, (The Ant was a complete coquette.) And roU'd her eyes and to?s'J her head, And bit her lips to make 'era red ; Forc'd many a trait from love to spite, Killing to look with all its might. Fox, with the pallet in his paw, Took snuff, and then began to draw ; Glanc'd o'er hor face ; found little in it — And did her likeness in a minute. Ant rose and look'd — ' Ve powers,' says she, ' Is this poor little image me ? ' Me ? me not bigger than your thumb ? ' The daub is not like me a crumb. ' No, by the powers that rule the ball, ' It is at least two thirds too small !' Fox, who descried her shoals and shelves Replied, ' Miss .\nt, few know themselves ; ' Small folks, by great conceit puffed fat, ' Are not one grain more greet fur llial ." MF.DICINAI.. We are aware that medical prescription?, conveyeil through the medium of a newspaper, carry with them no great force of authority. — It has not iinfrequently happened, liowever, that they have been productive of good. The great- est discoveries in philosophy liave been the re- sults of reflection, operating upon casual inci- dents. Valuable principles have been devel- oped in the healing, as well as in other arts, by fortuitous circumstances; and perhaps the fol- lowing iiems, which we have selected from English papers, may have the effect to rescue some one of the human funily from the evil it proposes to remedy. Sliould its application in a single instance be salutary, the l.ibor bestowed will not have been regretted. — American. Croup. — Dr. Keddelin, of VVeismar, has com- mimicated to the Koyal Society at Gottingen, the following successful treatment of Croup, af- ter the usual remedies had been tried without effect : — The patient was a female aged 19, who, on the third day after being seized with the Croup, was unable to swallow, had begun to rattle in the throat, and seemed approaching rapidly to dissolution. Dr. Keddelin insinuated, by means of a quill, a mixture of Spanish snufl' and mari'occo into her nostrils; and alter re- peating this mixture a second time, it excited sneezing and vomiting; this occasioned the dis- charge of two long nienibi'anous cylinders from the trachea, (wind-[)ipe) upon wliich the rat- tling immediately ceased, and tli(> patient was rescued from instantaneous suflbcation. One of the tubes, when split open, measured nine French lines in breadth ; they were quite white, and bore a strong exten?ion v.ithout injury to (heir fibrous texture. It is said to be a specific for the rheumatism, to apply a cabbage-leaf to the part affected. — Choose a perfect leaf, cut ofi' the protuberant stalk on the back, and place it on the part with a bandage of flannel on going to bed. It will produce a local perspiration, and in two or three repetitions a cure will be effected. A writer says, " tobacco exhausts those juices so essentially necessary to further digestion ; it creates thirst and nausea ; it destroys appetite ; the complexion becomes cadaverous ; tinally, the ehewer and smoker becomes a poor miser- able extenuated atrophic walking skeleton, smok- ing away his few remaining ideas, and spitting up his lungs, until death releases him from all his sufferings."' The truth, we believe, is, that to many constitutions tobacco is hurtful — to oth- ers, innocent ; and the true course is for those who find it injurious, to abstain from its use. That it is pernicious to young people generally is past a doubt, and therefore its use by them ought to be forbidden or discouraged. Great Establishment. — There is an extensive Manufacturing Establishment at Dover, N. H. The capital is j5f''J0,000 ; a great part of the shares, we believe, are owned in this city (Boston.) The proprietors have a Cotton Man- ufactory, which carries 2500 spindles, employs 36 looms, I'iO hands, and at which 10,000 yards of siieeting and shirting are manufactured and bleached per week. During the last season, the company erected a building of 80 by 54 feet, 4 stories, embracing a rolling and slitting mill, nail factory and machine. The basement and second stories are devoted to the rolling and slitting mill — the construction of the rolling mill is on a new principle, having but one water wheel placed at the side of the platform. The third story is used as the nail factory, and from 6 to 700 tons of iron per year, are cut into nails in this factory. The 4th story is occupied as a machine shop, in which 40 hands are employed, in making the various kinds of machinery for a new cotton manufactory, now erecting on the same falls, wliich is to be 154 by 43 I'eet, and will carry 4O0O spindles, and employ from 150 to 200 hands, and probably produce 20,000 yards of cloth per week. — This, with other improvements going on at Dover, will prove of lasting advantage to the town, "which is des- tined to become the Manclivster of New-Hamp- shire."— Gazette. Baltimore Alamifactnries. — The Federal Re- publican says, there are 13 cotton mills in that vicinit}', which drive at least 32,080 spindles — 2 woollen mills — 1 copper rolling mill, which is the only one of note in the United States — 3 extensive rolling-mills, which manufacture annually at least 1500 tons of iron into rods, hoops, bolt and sheet iron — besides at least 30 of the best and most improved merchant-mills ivithin the limits and environs of the city, that manufacture about 300,000 barrels of flour an- nually. working the pumps with less fatigue than is usu- al. This is a highly important discovery, and cannot fail to induce every ship owner to avail himself of the plan for the use of his ship. In- surance oflices would find it to be their intere'^f, and would do an act of humanity, were tliev to insist, as one of the conditions to insurance, that this highly improved plan .should be adop- ted by every ship over which they might ha\e any control. It is understood that Lieut. Voor- hecs intends to present his invention to the dil- ferent foreign governments through the medium of their Ambassadors at Washington. From the Xew York American. A method of working pumps, by means of a capstan, has lately been invented by P. T. \'oor- hecs, first Lieut, of the U. S. ship Washington. The machinery is simple, not expensive, and so constructed as to admit the common wav of Piety communicates a divine lustre to the fe- male mind — wit and beauty, like the flower of the field, may flourish for a season ; but let it be remembered, that like the fragrant blossoms that bloom in the air, these gifts are frail and fading. Age will nip the bloom of beauty; sickness and sorrow will stop the current of wif and humor ; and in that gloomy time which is appointed for all, piety will support the droop. ing soul, like a refreshing dew upon the parch- ed earth. — 1 am an admirer of simplicity ; hut I nevei feel a greater impulse to pay homage at ifi shrine, than \vhen it sheds its soft lustre on th( female sex. I am pleased when I behold wo man in such lights and shades of soul, tempo and disposition, as nature has originally forniei her in. Were I to select a fair " For solid comfort and connubial love," it should be her, who, reared in seclusion, wa the genuine child of simplicity — whose spotles mind has never received an unfavorable imprei- sion from the follies of a fashionable world. Sorrow and calamity are the surest test c religious principle ; and religious principle rise to moral sublimity when it teaches the sufferi! individual to breathe its glorious sjiirit throng its own hallowed medium. Intellectual talents are the noblest gift of th .\lmighty, but they involve their possessor i high and solemn responsibility. Prostituted g( nius is the nearest resemblance of the spirit ( evil. It looks like Satan clothed in the garb ■ an angel of light. The virtues, like the vices, are so fond i one another that they are seldom or ever foun separate; and if a virtue or two be sometinif found crowded in amongst many vices, they ar only like sprigs of geranium set without ro> in a garden, which, belore they hav^ time i take root, are thrown down by the first showf / or gust of wind, and wither away directly. i Lost money may be found again ; but a los character is seldom recovered. Sir Nicholas Bacon, a judge in (he time ( Queen Elizabeth, was once, while on the bencl importuned by a criminal to spare his life o account of his kindred. " How so ?" asked tb .Judge. " Because my name is Hog and youi is Bacon, and hog and bacon are so near a-ki that they cannot be separated." " Aye," sai the Judge, ''but you and 1 cannot be kindre except you be hanged ; for hog is not baco until it is well hanged." — Bacon^s Essays. NEW ENGLAND FARMER. PublibU :d ivy I'HDMAS W. SHtl'ARU, Kog.Ts' IJuiUiinj:, Congress Slreet, IJostnn ; at $2,M ptr ami. in advancfi, or $3,00 at th'-- close nl tht yt ai Vol. I. BOSTON. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5. 1822. No. 10. HOPS. We have been frequently requested to ghe, in tin- ievf England Farmer, a statement of the mostapprov- :d method of cultivating Hops. Wc accordingly copy he following from Messrs. Wells & Lilly's edition of Jcane's Georgical Dictionary. If any of our readers ire" in possession of any more improved mode of pro- luring that article, we should be very glad to receive m account of it for publication. HOP, Humuhis, a narcotic plant of the rep- ile kind, the flower of which is an in2:redient n beer, ale, &.c. As 1 have not hud much ex- jerience in hops, I shall give an account of the Manaoement of them, chietl}' aljstt'acteJ from he Complete Fiirmcr, and abridged. A rich, deep, mellow, dry soil, rather inclin- ing to sand than clay, is best adapted to the ciil- ivation of hops. A black garden mould is ex- :ellent. The ground should be ploughed very deep, jr dug ivith a spade, reduced to a tine mould liy repeated ploughing and harrowing, and laid ven. When the ground is in proper i-eaditiess for slanting, let a line be stretched on a straight side of a licld, with knots or rags in it, as far jsunder as you design your hills shall be ; and itick in the ground a sharp pointed stick at ev- ;ry knot, as marks for the places uhcre the lills are to be made. Remove the line to such I distance as to make the hills equidistant both •vays ; and so on through the whole ground. The distance of the hill should be regulated jy the strength of the soil. But in every case hey should be far enough asunder to admit the loe plough at all times. If the soil be dry and ihallow, SIX or seven feet will be a convenient iistance : But if it be rich, moist, and apt to jear large hops, it may be right to allow eight )r nine feet. The time to plant hops is when they begin .0 shoot in the spring. The sets are cuttmgs "rem the roots, or branches which grow from :he main root. They should be from live to seven inches long, with three or more joints or 3uds on each, all the old and hollow part be- ing cut ofi. Make holes twelve or sixteen in- ;hes wide, and of a depth proportioned to the lature of the ground. It' shallow, with hard I~l;lay or gravel under, dig not into it, lest 3 on liiake a basin to retain water ; but raise a small !i;ll of good mould. If there is a good depth ol rirh mellow mould, dig the hole a foot and a li ill. or two feet deep; the hops will thrive the jGller. When all things are ready for planting, fill up the holes with the mould before thrown out, it" it be good ; but if the same earth be not rich enough, make use of tine I'rcsh mould, or of a cnmpost provided for the purpose, a peck in each hill, but no dung on any account. Then with a setting stick make live or six ' '1 s, one in the middle perpendicular, and the L round it sloping, and meeting at the top liar the centre. Put in the sets so that they a\ay stand even with the surface, press the ai.iiild close to them, and cover them with tine jiould two or three inches thick. A stick should be placed on each side of the lull to se- cure it. The ground being thus planted, all that is to be done in the following summer is to keep the hills and alleys clear of weeds by frequent hoe- ings, to dig tlie ground in May, and carry olfthe stones raised by digging; to raise a small hill about the plants, and throw some mould on the roots, and in May or June to twist all the vines a.nd branches together in a loose knot, and lay them thus twisted on the top of the hill. Early in the following spring, when the weather is tine, open the hills, and cut off the shoots of the first 3'oar, within an inch of the stock, together with the younger suckers that have sprung from the sets, and cover the stock with tine earth. In the third and following years, when };ou dig your hop ground, let the earth be taken away with a spade or hoe, round about the hil!-^, very near them, that you may more convenient- ly come at the stock, to cut it. Then in fan- weather, if your hops be weak, begin to dress them: But if strong, do it later; for dressing late restrains their too early springing, which hurts the hop. After dressing in the second year, the next thing is to pole them. — Poles ten or twelve feet long will do then; but in the third year, when they come to their full bearing state, they will require poles of full size : This, if the ground be rich, and the hop vigorous, will be from sixteen to twenty feet; or there will be danger of losing great part of the crop. The hop will soon run itself out of heart, if it be over poled. Neither can a good crop be ex- pected from over poled ground ; because the branches which bear the hops grow very little, till the buds have overreached the poles, which they cannot do when the pole is long. Two small poles are sufficient for a hill in a jouni; ground. A hop garden, Mr. Young says, will last al most forever, !)y renewing the hills that fail to the amount of about a score annually ; but 11 IS reckoned better to grub up and new plant it every 20 or 25 j-ears. In forward years hops are ripe at the begin- ning of .September. — When they begin to changi colour, or are easily pulled to pieces; when they emit a fragrant smell, and when their seed- begin to look brown and grow hard, 3 ou mn_\ conclude that tliej' are rijie. Then pick llicn, •vitli all expedition; for a storm of wind will di them great mischief at this time. When the poles are drawn up in order to be picked, the vines around should be cut asunder at the height of three or four feet from the ground: For cutting them lower, especiail\ while the hops are green, would occasion so great a ilow olsap, as would weaken the root. It has been remarked b}' one who had much experience, that hops which are late pickeo bear more plentifully the following year than such as arc picked early : For which reason he recommends late picking. But the hops which are picked early look better, and are undoubt- edly stronger. The best way of drying hops is on kilns. Four V";i'«l^ ot imdried hops, will make one pound after they are dried. Bdfore hops are bagged, they should be laid in a hpap, that they may sweat and grow tough : , And if thoy are covered" for a while with blank- !cts, they will be the better. The bags arc j coarse linen cloth. They are ccminonly about eleven feet long, and near two yards and a half j in circumference, and contain about 250 weight of hops. The small bags, called pockets, con- t:iin about half as much. The manner of L;igging is thus. Make a round or scpiare hole abo'.it 2G or 30 inches over, in the floor of the chamber where the hops are laid in heaps after sweating. Tie with a piece of ])ack thread, a handful of hops in each lower corner of the bag, to serve as handles for the morc easy lit'ling or removing, the bag; and fasten the mouth of the bag to a frame, or hoop, somewhat larger than the hole, that the hoop, may rest on its edges. The upper [iart thus tix- ed, the rest of the bag hangs down through the hole, but not so far as to touch the lower lloor. Then throw into it a bushel or two of hops, and let a man go into the b;tg, and tread the iiops down till they lie close ; then throiv in more and tread ; and so on till the bag is full. Loose it from the hoop, and sew up the mouth as close as possible, tying hops in the upper, as was done in the lower corners. The harder Ihe hops are pressed, and the closer and thicker the bag is, the longer and better the hops will kee{>. A small manuring of hop ground every second ye:ir is suliicient. — Dung was tbtmcrly more in use than at present, ex|)erience having shewn ihat lime, sea sand, marie, ashes, S:c. answer ihe end better, and last longer. But hog dung prevents mildew Irom taking hops. Each pole, according to Dr. Kales, has three vines, which makes s.x vines to a hill. .\ll the sjirouts above this number, should be broken oft' n the spring. From the American Farmer. Prince Gcorgt's County^ Sept. 2Qth, 1822. Di:ar Sir — I do not recollect to have seen n your paper, a cure for the disease to which iogs are subject, commonly called the distem- per. Allho' I am a professed enemy to cirn, biped ;nd (juadruped, yet 1 confess I feel great respect ;'or some dogs, and take pleasure in relievuig iiieni from a malady \-. hich let alone, or injudi- ciou'^ly treated, becomes fatal to thousands. The cure is simple .and certain. To a dog eight months old, give 4 grains of Turbeth's mineral, m grnel or any thing else in which it will mix. Keep him from cold water 24 hours, then give 4 grains of crocus metallorum, and lurn him out. I have never known this reme- dy to fail. A Cucumber was raised in a garden in Port- land, by Mr. John Young, which measured twenty inches in circumference, and weighed seven pounds and two otinccs. — Portland Ga-, 74 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. From the Massachusetts Spy of October '2. CATTLE SHOW, 4-c. On Wednesday last, the JVorce::tpecl.\e duties. At two o'clock, a procession was formed foe din- ner, which was handsomely provided by Messrs //otcc j- not been chilli enlertd, and have started leitliuut sigjiaf. the Jiidg'es are not pledged to uuard preinivnis. 6. The Chain of Union. — Tight, wilhoul ij'J/i'xq-. 7. The Yo^■e Matrimonial. — To keep both ends even, let ntilher side have the advantage. 8. The Spindle. — By one revolution our indepen- dence was achieved — by millions it i> perpetuated. 9. Cattle ."hows — and all other S^hows but the Law- yer's '■ chose in action." 10. Those who work and those who play. — May Ih.^ /brwfr have employment, and the /(.-//fc mtans to pay for it. After the third Toast, the Hon. ]\Ir. Wki.lf.s, one of the Trustees of the Mass;ii;hufetts Ayri- cultural Society, rose and returned his th.-mks for the handsome manner in which the jiarent Socieiy had been noticed, congratulated the members of the Worcester County Society upon the honorable result of tlieir exertions, and ex- pros-ed his hearty wishes for their future pro.'- perity. He then proposed the following senti- ment : — The Worcester Agricultural Society. — JTay tin ir success be commensurate with their zia!, intelligence and patriotism. The following Toast was given by the Hon. Mr. Llovd. The Yeomanry of Massachusetts.— Tndnstrifus, ii> lelligent and independent — natives o{ the soil — a stock of the first class, and not to be improved by any loreign crosses. At 5 o'clock the Trustees assembled in the Meeting House, and the several Committees made their Reports, of which only a summary sketch can nov.! be given. The Committee on A'cat Stock consisted of Hon. Levi Lincoln, of Worcester, Chairman ; !\Ir. Paul Dudley, of Douglas, Mr. .Tames Adams, of Barre, Hon. Jonas Sibley, of Sutton, and Mr. Levi Bartlett, of Rutland. This Committee, as usual, made a very long and interesting Report. The Conin)ittee expressed themselves in terms of admiration at the excellence of most of the Stock exhibited. They remarked with what high satisfaction they had witnessed the improvements taking place in those j>roperties which render Stock valuable. The Chairman again congratulated his fellow citizens upon the introduction of the Durham improved short- horned breed into our country — upon the pref- ei-ence which is now given to this breed by many of our best farmers — and upon the prog- ress it is making, in spite of prejudice, in the public estimation. ?dany other judicious and well-timed remarks were made by the Com- mittee, which we will not anticipate, because it is proposed to lay the v.hole of their report before the i>ublic iu a week or two; and wo hope that not a farmer in the County will neg- lect to read it. A'tcr observing upon the dilii-> culty ordiscnmin.Uion where merit wnj so near- ly equal, and regretting that they could not be- stow more reward where so much was deserv- ed, the Committee recommended the following premiums : — To Jason Waters, of Sutton, for the best Bull, $Vj To Messrs. Ward & Rice, of Worcester, for the next best, 10 To Reuben Newhall, of Spencer, for the best Bull Calf, 0 To John Sherman, of Sutton, for the next best, 4 To Morarc Wnrren, of New Brainlrce, for the best Milt h Gov.-, 1'' To Klisha Matthews, of do. for the nest best, 10 To John A yres, of Oakham, for the next best, 11 To Stephen Williams, of Northboro', for the best Hcif( r, (' To ."Vsa liice. of Worcrstsr, for t!ie next he>t, .) To Xmci^ Sheldon, Jr. of Fitchburgh, for tiin bcsl Hiifer t'a'.f, 5 To John Uavis, of Worcester, for the next best, -1 To Thomas W. Ward, of Slireirsbary, for the best four 3'ear5 old Steers, 10 To Simeon I'htlps. of Sutton, for the best 3 years old Strcr^, n To N.ithl. Gates, of Worcester, for the next best, 0 To T^iither "\Ahiting-, of Sutton, for the best 2 years old Steers, ^ 7 To I^uUe Baker, of Kutland, for the best yearling Steer?, 5 To James Black, of Barre, for the next best, 3 To Lewis Barnard, of Worcester, for the best Fut Ox, ir> To Asa Rice, Jr. of Shrewsbury, for the next best, 10 The Committee particularl\- mentioned the following .Animals as worthy of notice, viz : — The Bulls of Mr. Horace Warren, of Grafton, of Mr. Hale, of Koyalston, Mr. Leland, of Graf- ton, Mr. Sheldon, of Fitchburg, and Mr. Miles, of Westminster ; the Bull Calf of Doct. Ball, of Northborough ; the Cows of Mr. Boylston, of Princeton, and Col. Watson of the same town ; the Heifers of Theophilus Wheeler, Esq. ol Worcester, Mr. Peters, and Mr. King's, of Rut- land ; the Heifer Calf of Mr. Elisha Flagg, of Worcester; the Steers of Messrs. A. &, J. Chase, of Sutton; those of Mr. Lsaac Dodge, Jr. of the same place ; those of the Rev. Rlr. Daggett, of Mendon, (unfortunately not entered in season for premium ;) those of Mr. C^rus Lovell, ot Worcester ; those of Mr. Elisha Sumner, of Rutland; of Mr. Cumnimgs, of Sutton ; of Mr. Hathaway, of Grafton ; of Mr. Ho3wood, ol Millbury ; of Maj. Tenny, of Sutton ; and those of Mr. .Joel Wesson, of MiUhury ; the Fat Oxen of Col. Wynian, of Shrewsbury; and those of Mr. Benjamin Woodbury, of Sutton. Among the descendants of Denton, besides those above mentioned, the Committee also mentioned in (trms of high praise, the Bull Call' of Col. Wat- son, of Princeton ; the Bull and Bull Calf of Lovett Peters, Esq. of Westboroush ; the Bull Calf of Maj. Newlon ; the Bull Calves of Maj. Davis ; the Bull Calf of Hon. Oliver Fiske, and that of Mr. Benjamin Bntman ; and the Heifers, Bull and Heifer Calves of Maj. Lincoln. The Committee on Working Oxen consisted of Seth Lee, Esq. of Barre, Chairman ; Col. Wm. Foster, of Sturbridge, .Joseph Estabrook, Esq. of Royalston, Mr. John Batcheller, of Graf- ton, and Col. William Eager, of Northborough. The Chairman of this Committee had time only to make a summary report. The performances of all the competitors were well spoken of. — The Committee recommended the following premiums : — To Luther Whiting;, of Sutton, the 1st premium. fSlfj y« Seth Wyman, of Shrewsbury, 2d premium, ' 1^ NEW ENGLAND FARMER. To Jon,lB L. SiMey, of Sutton, 3d frcmluJii, lO To Nathaniel Gates, of AVorcester, -Ith premium, fj The Committee also parlicularly conimt led Ihe Working Cattle of Mr. Josej 1 Dudley, and Mr. I'eter Darling, of Sutton. The Committee on Merino, Mixed, ctnil JVative. Sheep, consisted of Hon. Aaron T "is, of Dudley, Chairman ; Capt. Cyrus Gale, of Northborough, and Mr. Willard Rice, of Spencer. The Chair- man of this Committee made some pertinent and forcible observations upon the great deliciency which was apparent in this kind of Stock, tlian which none, under proper management, can be more prolitable to the farmer. He recapitul- ated all the advantages which might be derived I'rom the encouragement of an improved breed of Slieep. and the particular advantages wlixli the County of Worcester enjoys in this resjiect. And he greatly lamented that with such moans as we possess to do ourselves and our County justice, there should be such a meagre c.\!iibi- tion. His Report will hereafter be published in detail, and we hope it will be generall}' read and as generally profiled by. The Commillee recommended the following premiums : — To William Lincoln, of Worcester, for the best Merino li^wes, §10 To John Uavis, of Worcester, tor the second best u To Levi Lincoln, of Worcester, for tjie best Merino Wether, 4 To F.zra Bigelow, of West-Boylston, for the best lot of Mixed Merino Kwes, .'» There was but one Merino and one Native Ram entered. The Merino had before receiv- ed a first premium, and was not considered as entitled to another. The Native Raiu was not judged worthy of a premium. The Committee on Szuine consisted of Lovett Peters, Esq. of Wcstborough, Chairman; Col. Seth Wyman, of Shrewsbury, and Mr. Rufus Por- ter, of Worcester. Thej' recommended the fol- lowing premiums : — To John Gkason, jun. of Worcester, for the best Boar, _ ^ _ SlO To Asa Rice, of Worcester, for the Best "Weaned Pi-, 4 To Joel Gates, of Worcester, for the best Breeding Sow, C The Committee regretted that the competi- tion in this valuable article of Stock was so lim- ited. They mentioned with approbation a Boar of i\Iaj. Simeon Burt, and one of Mr. Simon Gates — also the Pigs of Theophilus Wheeler, Esq. and of Jlr. Joel Gates. The Committee on the Ploughing Match con- sisted of Hon. Seth Hastings, of Mendon, Chair- man ; Samuel Read, Esq. of Uxbridge, Moses Thomas, Esq. of Sterlnig, Samuel Mixter, Esq. of A^ew-Braintree and Charles Mirick, ris(]. of Princeton. The Committee congratulated the Society on the continued and incrcas.ng interest excited by the Ploughing- .Match, and remarked how great an object it was to give to our tield.s a better cultivation than formerly, at a less ex- pense of labour, by improvements in the con- struction and use of the plough. The Com- mittee reported that ten competitors had perfor- med in their respective lots as follows: — Lot No. 1. John Park, of Millbury, one yoke of Oxen; himself plougiiman, no driver ; work performed in '27 minutes 4iJ seconds — 19 furrows — plough made by Ebenezer l^earned, of Ward. No. 2. Jabez Brighaia, ot Worcester, one yoke of Oxen ; ploughman,* Moses Brigham, no driver ; work performed in 22 minutes — 20 furrows — Dutch plough with a wheij, made by F.. Learned. No. 3. Jonas L. .Sibley, of Suttoa, one yoke of Oxen, n plotif-limaHj Kiitriitl Hliley, dtivM', f^ltiiiifcii ilarlii.f ; work )ic rtormid in IH niiuutes, &n .^iconds^lC funbws — common plough with a wheel, madutby A. Chase, of Sutton. No. '1. John Shennnn, of Sutton, one yoke of Oxen ; plQUghnian, Asa Cummins, driver, John Sherman ; work pirforined in 10 minutes, 30 seconds-— IG furrows — common plough with a whetl, made by John Hall, of Sutton. No. f). Moses Adams, of Sutton, two yokes of Oxen ; ploughman. Owen Brown, driver, 'I yler Marble ; ^ork performed in 17 minutes — Ifi furrows — common plough with a v.'hetl, made by A. Chase. No. C. Levi Lincoln, of W orccster, two yokes of Oxen ; ploughman, Philemon Wright, driver, Ariemas Ward, 2d ; work performed in 20 minutes — 18 furrows — Harrison's patent plough. No. 7. Silas L'udley, of Sutton, One yoke of Cxtn ; himself ploughman, diiver, Joseph Dudley; work per- formed in 20 minute's fjo seconds — 13 furrow?. — rominon plough, wiih a wheel and cutter, made by Jesse War- ren, of Dre'hani. No. C. iN'athaniil Gates, of Worcester, two yoke' of Oxen; ploughman, Levi Gales, elriver, Nathaniel Gales; work performed in 2-t minutes 58 seconds — IG furiows — Wood's patent plough. No. 0. Peter Darling, of .'mutton, one yoke of Oxen ; ploughman, Natiianiel Carroll, driver, Peter Darling ; work peiTornicfl in 30 minutes 2 seconels — 19 furrows — ■ (ominoii plough with a wheel, made by John Holman. of \\'arrocess of maturation, institutes that of decomposition, anil :mpairs the spirituous quality upon which the preservation of the cider wholly depends. It ■should be regarded, too, as almost equally in- dispensable to the good quality of the liquor, that the fruit should be separated before grind- ng. from unripe and unsound apples, and from all filth. The juice of an unripe apple is evea more pernicious than that of a defective one. The place in which the cider shall now be set to subside is interesting to its welfare. In a cellar of uniform temperature through the 3'ear, it may be left nndisturbcd to settle and refine on its own lees. The unstoppagc of cellar win- dows in the spring, admits an active agent to the acetous fermentation, against which, draw- ing off may be a safe guard. If placed in an open exposure below the freezing point, " The hoary frosts, and northern blasts, take care The muddy bever.age to serene, and drive Precipitant, the baser ropy kes." In this case, racking before a removal into the cellar, (for it ought not to freeze) and again in JIarch or April, may be necessary for the ex- clusion of the oft'ending matter. The difference in tlie two modes of treatment already supposed is, that in the first, nature is left to her oivn unmolested operation, through which her inten- tions of giving to man a delectable draught, will (if they have not been thwarted by his own remissness) be efTectually accomplished : — in the other, she is hastened on in her designs, and the precipitation of the performance requires, that certain of its stages should be seized to thrust (" i NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 77 out an enemy vvho is only on rest to recom- mence commotion. As to refining cider with matter, it may be given as a rule, that if while on the lee?, or %vhcn drawn ofl", the liquor is tran(|uil, pleasant, p ercing, and yet free from asperity, it may he left to itself; or, as is more fit for turbulent, acrimonious ;uid insipid bodies, a little tasteless mucilaarinous matter of any sort, as isinglass, calves teet jelly, the whiles of eggs, or dissol- ved glue, may he infused to accelerate the precipitation of the particles suspended in the liijHor. The addition of spirit to the expressed juice is a practice condemned by rninona^s Bard — ^^ \Vitl\ fhi-ir n:\tive strength. Thy vviiu's sulficiPnt." A sensible observer, too, of our own, has ex- pressed the same censure. But tlie subject has its qualifications. The treatment which is some- times necessary to give a saving soundness to wine, decides against these opinions. Drandy is re-mixcd with wine to give it solidity; and grapes of the greatest saccharine richness, af- fording a juice of nearly the consistency of honey, and easily convertible into spirit, are used to exalt inferior clusters into wine of a high quality.* In truth, it is on this point that intelligent observation must direct. Seasons of luxuriant vegetation produce a more aqueous apple than seasons of sterility. The eft'ect of these diU'ercnt seasons on the quality of cider cannot have escaped notice. In the dry sum- mers of 1G05 &. C. a spiritous ascendancy in the fruit generally triunii>hed, in cider, over mis- m=inagement in its making — on the contrary, m seasons of great abundance, and when the Iruit is distended to a great size by the watery ele- ment, the sjiirit of cider is reduced to so pre- carious a standard, that the skiltul and vigilant oii'y may boast of its possession in power and piir.ly. In these facts, which a moment's re- flection must cotifirm, we have the instruction we need — if tho '■ native strength" of the juice is surticient, an alliance should be rejected — if insuthcient, an auxiliary may be received, and as the fitest \i that nearest in affinity, Cider Brandy is the most suitable assistant. From these remarks, they result as general rules in the making of Cider, that apples should be ripe when gathered — that they should be housed to mellow — that they should be separ- ated, before grinding, from the rotten and im- ripe, and from all uncleanness — that they should be mashed fine in a covered mill, and lay in must before laying up, a longer or shorter time according to the temperature of the weather, avoiding, while in that state, the least appear- ance of fermentation, which then almost imme- diately produces acidity- — that the juice be pu- rified of pulp and impurities, by passing several * Otlicr, and less notorious secrets in the trnde of wine, give the same evidence. Currants, in the pro- portion often gallons to a barrel, will bring ou a fer- mentation in cider v.'hich terminates in a nroba!)ly, and indeed certainly, is that of a moth or butterfly. This was the course Profes.^or Peck pur-ued. We shall then know at what time, they rise, as but- terflies, or moths — when they deposit their egg's — when the larva or worm is hatched, and liuw long it continues its ravages. To what depth the larva descends, in order to undergo its change. It is indeed very alarming, if it de- scends three or four feet, as stated by Pi3mo- theus — but we must doubt this fact, until we kno»v, that the identity of the worm on the sur- face, and that fotmd in digging post holes, has been ascertained. Great credit is due to Ply- motheus for what he has done ; but we vieiv it only as a pledge, that for the public good, he will do more, which we feel convinced he is very competent, and very ready to do. There is little doubt from his description of the cfl'ccts of this insect, and of the mode of doing injiu'v, that it is the same insect, wiiich appeared in Worcester county, and the western parts of this fetate, three years since, and pattially on some estates, in lioxbury. The singular manner, in which tiie grass sward was undermined, so as to detach it trom the soil, and to enable you to roll it up, seems to identify it, with the insect so destructive, and alarming to us, at the period referred to. If it could he conceived that such an insect should he permitted to prevail over the country generally, it might ju'oduce a fa- mine, though we apprehend, "that there is little hazard of such an event — but it is very impor- tant, that we jhould trace its history with care, and we shall doubtless be able to find means oi destroying it. \\c should always remember, as farmers, that this fertile earth is given to us on the condition of our perpetual and never ceas- ing care to preserve its I'ertility, and that all the evils we eiicounier, dry seasons, devourinir insects, and blights, are only intended |i> sharp- en our intellectual faculties, increase our zeal and industry in the eliort to surmount them, and thus in tlie end to render the earth more pro- lific, than it ivould have been if no such stimu- lus had existed. A F.XKMER. dition. " These, O ! liomans, said lie, are my enchantments. My watchfulness, diligence and labor, 1 cannot display before you."' He was acquitted by an unan.mous vote. Truly it is labor, not expense, that makes a plentiful har- vest ; and it is an ancient adage, that the best manure is the eve of the master. Krom tlie .\merican rarmer. THE ROLLEPi — lis vsc and Importance. Mr. SKiNNEn — Looking accidentally into the Encyclopedia Britanica, at the article .\gricul- ture, 1 found the annexed passage, which you may think deserves to be inserted in voiir pa- per, as 1 do myself, because we suffer in this part of the country, from frequent droughts, and the reliel' alluded to in this article is not generally known, though certainly no recent invention or disco\er\'. Your obedient servant, THOM.\S W. GRIFFITH. The Roller is an instrument of capital use in husbanpry, though scarcely known in ordinary practice. " In the (list place, rolling renders a loose soil more compact and solid; which en- courages the growth of plants, by making the earth clap close to every part of every root, Nor need we be afraid of rendering the soil too compact : for no roller that can bo drawn by two or four horses will have that effect. In the next place, rolling keeps in the moisture, and hinders drought to penetrate. This effect is of great moment. In a dry season it may make the dilference of a good cro]) or no crop, espe- cially VI here the soil is light." 0:7=.\llow mc to take this opportunity to re- commend to all road makers, the use of an in- strument of the kind alluded to, that is, a roller, to press down the materials employed in mak- ing roads, btfure tlie same is travelled — a practice which was successfully adopted, on my sugges- tion, by the President and Managers of the Turnpike from Baltimore, towards York, in Penn. some years ago. T. W. G. lioxbunj, Hept. 25. Extract from Plinfs A''aiural History, Book xviii. [Translated for the New EnjlanJ Farmer.] Caius Furius Cresinus, a freed man, was hat- ed, and suspected of sorcery, by his neighbors, because he raised m-re from his small farm than they acquired from tlipir large possessions. A day was ajipointcd for his trial, by Spurius Albinus. Fearing condemnation, before the ojjinions of the people were asked, he brought into the forum his farming implements, and his healthy family, well taken care of and neatly dressed, (as Piso relates) tools excellently made, epades and ploughshare^, and oxen in good con- Krom the Cooperstown, (N. Y.) Jouinnl. IViishingion^s opinion of Agricultural Societies. I like occasionally to converse witli the raigh ty dead ; the results of their investigations, are ; ,o„.„ shewed another so many beacons to guide and direct those who seventeen ounces, them. Washington was indeed the ! the soil more and more an object of puidic pat- ronage. Institutions for promoting it, grow u] supported by the jjublic purse : And to what oIj- jectscan it be dedicated with greater j)roprietv 'i Among the means which have been employed to this end, none have been attended with great- er success than the establisliment of Boanls, composed of proper characters, charged with collecting and ditVusing information, and enabled by premiums and small pecuniary aids, to en- courage and assist a spirit of discovery and im- provement. This species of establishment con- tributes doubly to the increase of improvement, by stimulating to enterprise and improvemenl. and by drawing to a common centre the results, every where, of individual skill and olx^ervation, and spreading them over the nation. Experi- ence, accordingly has shown, that they are ver\ cheap instruments of immense national benefit.'" From th3 New-Hampshire Fatriot. The corn, is at this time ripe in the fields just fit for the harvest ; and New-Hampshire never exhibited finer and heavier fields — it is believed all was out of the way of " Jack Frost" when he commenced his attacks. Potatoes, lurnip.'i and almost every kind of vegetable, have been attended by a growth, whose luxuriance was scarcely if ever exceeded. But the apple trees — we scarcely know how to describe their ap- pearance : — it would seem as if the whole growth of some trees could be intended to pro- duce only one year's crop like the present ; there appears to be, at least, a crop of three ordinary seasons in one. Farmers, in laying in their store of cider, ought to calculate for not less than two years. And not only there are more in number, but the size of the apple is in- creased. To the south, larger fruit of most kinds is produced than to the north: this may be seen in the orchards of Massachusetts con- trasted with those of New-Hampshire. The largest apple we have had any account of the present year was one at Marblehead, which weighed about 2.) ounces. In the orchard of Maj. Stark at Dunbarton last Thursday one of the editors jiicked up four apples Iving side by side as they fell from the tree, whicii weighed more than three pounds ; and Mr. G'ale of this a little over weighing come alter father of this country, and he has left many tes timonies of his wisdom and devotion to its best interests. At this day, there caii be found no man who has the temerity to impugn the mo- tives by which he was actuated, or doubts the policy of the measures whicli he urgeil upon the consider.ition of the National Legislature. In a speech at the opening of Congress, in De- cember, 170G, I find he recommended .Agricul- ture as one of the most proper objects of public patronage. It will be seen by the following extract from that paper, that Societies for the encouragement of the parent art, were consi- dered of ])rimary importance, and especially deserving the fostering sup]iort of the National Government. " It will not be doubted, that with reference eilher to individual or national welfare, -Agri- culture is of primary importance. In propor- tion as nations advance in population and other circumstances of maturity, this truth becomes more apparent, and renders the cultivation of POT.VTOES were discovered in \'irginia, by Sir Waller lialcigh who imported them into England previously to 1590. In a manuscri|)t account of the household expenses of Queen .Vnne, wife of James 1. who died 1G18, the price of potatoes is given at one shilling a pound. — They now sell fourteen iioiinds for sixjicnce. They were not introduced into Ireland till ItilU, nor into Scotland until 1728, except in gardens, ilow rapid and extensive has been the growth and consumption of this root in the course of one centur}'. Camp Meeting. — A camp meeting of the Me- thodists commenced about five miles from Plats- burgh, N. Y. on the 5th and closed on the 9th ult. About 5000 were present. During its con- tinuance, the whole country was in motion, and every species of land and water transporalion was in requisition. — The society numbers more than 100 new converts at this meeting. NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 70 m^ n* ifABiiiiiis. BOSTO.^ .—SATURDAY, OCT. 5, 1822. It is hoped that the valuable original communica- tions, published in this day's paper, will atone for the want of original matter under the editorial head. "Wt: had arlicles jirepared, which were omitted to give room for the official account of the proceedings at the Worcester Cattle Show. CATTLE SHOW AT CO.XCORD. The Middkstx Soculi/ of Husbandmen and Mann- fnf hirers, held their Anniversary at Concord, on the 3d inst. it was attended by a large and respectable assemblage of the substantial yeomanry of Massachu- setts, and many characters of the first respectability honored themselves as well as the occasion, by being present, and taking an active part in the business and amusements of the daj'. We hope to receive an offi- cial account of the proceedings at this Exhibition, for our next paper. HilhhoToy^'h. .V. //. CuHlc Saof\—\n Agricultural Fair anil Show was held at -imhcrst, on the 2-!th and -25th of September, which is spoken of in high terms. The New Hampshire Patriot says, " Without dispar- agement to any other exhibition, it may in truth be said that the patriotic County of Hillsborough has this year, not only out-done all her sister Counties, but ex- ceeded herself on any former occasion. This has re- sulted from the extended and liberal principles on which the Society has been managed, and from the prompt attention of its individual officers and committees to heir respective duties — in particular, from the un- wearied labor and perseverance of its Secretary, EDMr.ND P.vuKER, Esq. to whom the Society owes jiucli, and has acknowledged its obligations." ' The cattle were remarkably line, especially the j'oung bulls, steers and heifers. Gentlemen from Mas- ■achusttts who had frequently attended the great ex- inbitions at Brighton, freely admitted they had never ^eeu any cattle there superior to those which were ■eared on the high grounds of the county of HiUsboro'. There was not so great a variety of the household manufactures as might have been anticipated ; but bet- 'er samples have not probably been exhibited. Tlie outter and cheese were excellent — the woollen cloths would vie with superfine imported — the plain linens and diapers, the grass and straw bonnets, the carpets uid flannels did great credit to the fair hands which WTOught them. In short, there was scarcely an article exhibited which failed of discovering the improved taste and genius of (he people of this county."' There were nine persons competitors in the Plough- iig Match, and each ploughed the lot assigned him, of one eighth of an acre, in the following manner — Benj. I'arker in 13min. 5 sec. — .lohn Johnson in 13]nin. C sec. — Isaac Burns in 14 min. 45 sec. — Jonathan T. Wheeler in 15 min. 30 sec Levi Jones in 15 min. 25 ec. — Daniel Fuller in 16 min. 25 sec. — C. H. Ather- ton, one yoke, in 17 min. the other, in 20 min. without a driver — Timothy Danforth in 17 min, 30 sec. At half past 12 o'clock, at the Meeting House, after prayers by the Rev. Mr. Lord, an ingenious and per- tinent Address was delivered by Moses Eastman, Esq. of Salisbury. The awards of the several committees were then declared and the premiums paid. After the premiums were declared and paid, the fUv. Humphny Moore, of Milford, Chairman of the Viewing Committee, read a report which he had pre- pared. It gave a concise description of the Farms and Crops viewed, aud the ma«5agemeut and good husband- ry of the owners. The Amherst Cabinet declares that ■' it was replete with information and wit, aud filled the audience with delight and admiration." The same paper says that " the expediency of having the Show in the pleasant month of September, instead of October, and of having two days instead of one, has been decid- edly manifested. A large number of new members has been added to the Society, and we have heard of but tu-o who even thought of taking a dismission. As good a Show as we have now liad can always be had for $100, and we hope four hundred good farmers can be found in the county, wishing to contribute yearly the sum of one dollar each, thereby adding ten fold to the respectability of their own class and occupations." FOREIGX DEATH OF LORD LOXDOjXDERRY. The packet Ship Amity, Maxwell, has arrived at New York, with London papers to the 14th of August. They do not appear to contain any thing of importance, I if we except the death of the Marquis of London- derry, wlio committed suicide by cutting his throat on the 12th of August, at North Cray, County of Kent. The Louflon Courier of the 14th contains the Coroner's Inquest and \'erdict, from which it appears that he was in a (it of insanity when he committed the act, which was proiluced by extreme mental and bodily fatigue duiiug the late session of Parliament. On the death of Lord Castltreagh, the editor of the Liverpool Mercury' observes, ''The sudden, unexpec- ted and self-inflicted death of this nobleman absorbs the public attention to the exclusion of almost every other topic, not excepting the Royal \isit to Scotland — nor do we wonder at the interest excited by the de- mise of an individual, who was the very soul of the present administration ; and whose memory is so insep- arably associated with the crooked policy pursued by the British Cabii^ft for the last quarter of a century, that it will be ' damned to everlasting fame.' " His death was announced in London about half past one on the 12th, and produced great confusion and agi- tation at the different government offices. It had the effect of lowering the funds a half per cent. The verdict of the Coroner's Jury was, " That on Monday, Aug. 12, and for some time previously, the most noble Lord, Marquis of Londonderry, under a grie- vous disorder did labor and languish, and become in consequence delirious and of insane mind: and that whilst in that state, with a knife of iron or steel, he did inflict on himself on the left side of his neck, aud of the carotid artery, a wound of one inch in length and a half an inch in depth, of which be instantly died; and that no other person except himself was the cause of his death." To this verdict, all the jurors signed their names. Eight days ht!e.r. — Bj- an arrival here on the 2d inst. London papers have been received as late as the 22d of.\ugust. The Greeks continue a successful opposi- tion to the Turks, and have threatened measures of retaliation for the cruelties committed at Scio, which it is thought will operate as a restraint on the barbari- ty of the ferocious Ottomans. In Spain the waves of political commotion appear to be fast subsiding. Accounts to the 14th of August have been received in London, which stutc that the new miuisiry was f.rmly established, and tlint they gave such indirations of talents, energy, and liberality as led to sanguiuc hopes that order will he restored, and the country tranquillized. At Cadiz every thing was quiet, and the Constitutionalists completely vic- torious. A Congress of Sovereign? v.'as io hold a session at Verona in August, and hopes were entertaiiifc that measures would be adopted by those potentates for the benefit of Greece. The Marquis of Londonderry was buried with great pomp and magnificence in Westminster Abbey. His successor in office will not be appointed till after the return of the King from Scotland. The reception of the King at Edinburgh, was every way worthy the Scottish character, and gave infinite satisfaction to bis majesty. Du.MEbTlC. Mr. Slemson, of Galloway, N. Y. has rereivfd pre- miums from the Agricultural Society of Saiatcga coun- ty, for having raisi'd 02 bushels of Barley on an acre — four and an half tons of Timothy Ilay, per acre, on eight acrci — 104 burhels of Corn on an acre — and also the large.-t crop of Potatoes in the couiify. The crops of Rice in the vicinity of Savannah are uncommonly abuudaut aud of goorl quality. About one half of f he crop was supposed to have been har- vested previous to the 14th Sept. K person by the name of Richard David, residing in Indiana, was lately bit by a rattle-snake in to fatal it manner, as to cause his inunediate death. Last week, (says the Gazette,) on the complaint of file Polic:e Officer, one oi our butchers was con\ icted, before^ the Police Court, of offeriug for sale, at the Boylsfoii Market, raised and stuffed meat, contrary (o a cily ordinance passed on the 22d July last, aud fini (t fi\ e dollars and costs. Ibis being the first con^'icfion under the law, the Court sentenced the offender in the smallest penally, but intimated a determination to in- crease the fine ou future couviclions. BRIGIITOy SHOW AND FAIR. The Members of the Massachusetts Society for Promotiiio- Agriculture, will please bear in mind, that their attendance is evpected at their Hall, in Brighton, on Wednesday, the 9th of Oc- tober, at 9 o'clock, A. M. as business is to be transacted — the admisson of new members, &ic. All those Gentlemen who arc appointed on Committees, will please be punctual in their at- tendance, at 9, A. M. of the days on which their particular duty falls, as the Trustees intend to adhere strictly to their Rules and Regulations. Those Ladies who wish to view the Manu- factures in the Hall, will please to observe, that they must ascend to it by the steps at the .South End, outside of the building, and that the same will be devoted exclusively to them on the 9th, from 9, A. M. to 12, A. M. Some of the Trus- tees will attend them, and no other Gentlemen will he admitted during those hours, except the oxi'ncrs of the goods, who are expected to exhi- bit and attend to them. After 12 o'clock of the 9th, the Hall of Manu- factures may he visited by Gentlemen. The Cialleries of the Meeting-House will be reserved for Ladies, till the procession enters, at 1 o'clock. The doors will be open for tlieiii exclusively, at 1 1 o'clock. Any Gentlemen having fine Animals that are not entitled to be oflered for premium, or that have previously received them, are requested to exhibit them, and Pens will be provided. A Dinner will be ))rovided at Dudley's Hall ; a lew tickets for which, at one dollar and fifty cents, arc deposited at Wells and Lilly's, Court- street, till file morning of the 9th, after which they will be with Mr. Kuhn, at the Society's Hall, in Brighton; and where, also, those Mem- bers of the Society, who have not received their diplomas, can obtain them. Any . Gentlemen having tine specimens of Grain or Vegetables, will please deposit them iu the lower Plall ; also, any new Agricultural im- plements, which thoy may think deserve notice, slating on a card their quality. It is requested of Gentlemen havingyijie F;i«V, to de))osit some with Mr. Dudley, lor Ihc Agri- cultural Dinner, attaching their names to the same, which olTcrings will be duly noticed by the company. Per Order, GORHAM PARSONS. 80 NEW ENGLAND FARMER, the BY T. O. FKSSEMDES. Hale not laborious icork, ntitlur husbamlry, which Mosl Hish, hath ordained Ecck Apoc. Altliough some men, with pride tlale, Caii't condescend to cultivate The life-supporting soil, The Highest husbandry ordaiii'd, Nor can the proudest be sustain'd Without the Farmer's toil. If Adam, in his sinless state Was well employM to cultivate The soil, which gave hiiu birth, One would suppose his sinful race ^^'ould not esteem it a disgrace To till the fruitful earth. Yet many a liale and brawny lout Wont stoop to set himself about So noble an employment ! In doing mischief, doing nought, And doiiig nothing which he ought. Is plac'd his whole enjoyment. Some dolts as stupid as a stump. Have had the happiness to thump Their pates against a college ; Can construe, possibly, quid agis .' And therefore think themselves great sages, 0 Quite prodigies of knowledge. Others, perhaps, still greater bores. Have learn'd the odds, in mei-chants'' stores, 'Twixt muslin and molasses ; But still for manners, means and mind. Rank with those brutes, he wish'd to find, AVho sought his father's asses : Yet, being gfJi/Zemen by trade. They will not touch an axe or spade. But, useful labor shunning. They lounge about in lazy bands, Throng tippler's shops and tavern stands, Like rattle-snakes a sunning. And some the learn'd professions crowd, Whose shallow pates are not allowM To take in two ideas ; Their feeble wits for years they task, Ere pride will suffer them to ask What nature's fix'd decree is. All these, a poor mistaken race, Think husbandry a great disgrace, Though ^\ashington thought not ; And hands which empire's rod could wield, Have been employ'd to till the field. And bless'd their happy lot. Xow these our lays are not design'd To undervalue men of mind, Nor fruits of intellect ; The learn'd professions we would fill \Vith men of science, sense and skiU, Most worthy high respect. Still, those professions, 'tis allow'd, Are sadly cumber'd with a crowd, A nice but needy train, Oblig'd to tax their brains with double A common farmer's toil and trouble, A livelihood to gain. Merchants are useful in their places, But if society embraces Too many of the caste. As sure as man's to trouble born, Straight through the small end of the horu Some must be squeez'd at last. Header, I don't pretend to say But what your eminency may Be bless'd with parts uncommon ; A better head and heart, peihaps. Than commonly since Adam's lapse, Arc owu'd by man or woman. It dot-s not follow thence, however, Vour hands, so delicate, must never Perform " laborious work :" That you should loiter life away. And vegi tate from day to day. As lazy as a Turk. You arc, perhaps, by mother wit. As wfll as education fit Some famous part to act ; But it is possible there may Be other great men in your way, As good as you, in lact. And if you've reason to suspect The higher toils of intellect Are not for you decreed ; Your hands, in useful labor plied. May, with God's blessing, still provide For every real need. Then swing the axe, or ply the spade. Or work at that mechanic trade \Vhich suits your genius best ; Become a tinker, rather thau A mischievous, or idle man, A nuisance or a pest. And shun those imps, with pride elate, \\ ho cannot stoop to culti^'ate 'i he life-supporting soil ; And contravening God's commands, Will not employ their heads nor hands In any useful toiL From the Boston Daily Advertiser of October 1. AGRICULTURAL I.NTF.LLIGENCE. The season hies been unusually fertile — Indian Corn, our great staple has rarely been better or in greater al.'undancc. All vegetables have flourished unusually well, and the crops are great. — Still it must be admitted to have been a season beyond all example, dry. The springs are lower than they have been for thirty years. A pond which has been full to overilowing for thirty-five years, has been for six weeks past, two feet bclotv its ordinary level. Many wells have failed, which were never known to fail before. The after feed is nearly cut ofl", and the effects will be felt next spring in the high price of hay, unless we are supplied from the Eastern shore, where the season has been more favorable. Apples are more abundant and larger and fairer than we have ever known them, but we fear they will be preserved with difficulty. They will ripen prematurely, and cannot be preserved till spring without great care. The use of these hints will be perceived, if those who raise, or buy winter fruit, will in conse- (juonce of this intimation, take unusual care in picking^their fruit and in its preservation. As the apples are so ripe and of course the skin so soil, it will require more caution to prevent bruises in picking them, vvhich arc always fatal to the fruit. Purchasers buy apples by the bar- rel without inquiring into the iiunmer in which they have been picked and put up. Yet one barrel well picked, is worth two carelessly man- aged. When put up in such a season particu- larly, and in all seasons, they should be kept as cool as possible. — Any degree of cold short of freezing is not only not injurious but highly beneficial to fruit intended for winter use. Pears have been fairer and finer this year than for ten years past, but they ripen, and rot much earlier than usual. They should be exposed to the greatest possible degree of cold. It is not probably generally known that winter fruit can be preserved in ice houses till August in per- fection, and that cherries and other summer fruits can in like manner be kept perfect for many weeks, long after their season is past. The sweet potato has flourished this season beyond expectation. It is very sweet and dry — full as good as those raised in New-Jerscv, and we think better. We have had them in per- fection for seven weeks, since the 6th of August — and on one eighth of an acre, \\c have raised enough for our own wants, and have been able to send to market what will pay the whole ex- pense. Our neighbours, who attempted to raise them, we are sorry to perceive, have failed, ow- ing- partly to the unusually severe, and early - frosts of the past week, but more particularly to the injudicious selection of southern seed. They procured them from Virginia instead of New-Jersey. This, like all other plants, must be (to use a southern phrase,) acclimated. The peach and cherry were gradually introduced into northern regions. If we should import a peach tree direct from Armenia or Persia, its native region, it would never ripen its fruit with us. It is only by very gentle transitions that we procure m perfection fruits not natural to our soil. A ROXBURY FARMER. From the Connecticut Mirror. Mrs. Wells of Wcthersfield, (formerly Miss Woodhouse) has received by the hands of Mr. Marcus Bull of this City, the Medal and twenty guineas which were awarded to her by the British " Society of Arts," for her ingenuity in the manufacturing of the splendid Bonnet, which Mr. Bull carried to London. We have not seen the Medal, but we understand that it is of per- fectly pure silver, of about the circumference and twice the thickness of a crown — with vari- ous emblematic devices, elegantly executed on one side, and on the other a short inscription stating who gave it, to whom it was given, and lor what reason. In remarking- on the new material for fine straw plait, the Connecticut Courant says — " The importance of this discovery to that country will be readily perceived, when we state that nut less than one hundred thousand females, who have been formerly employed in the manufacture of Straw Bonnets, are now either partially or wholly deprived of their only means of obtaining a reputable subsistence. — From the experiments already made in cultiva- ting the grass in England, no doubt remains as to Its success ; and we may say with safely, that in giving this discovery to our mother country, we make her a valuable return in the account of reciprocating national discoveries and im- provements. \Vc sincerely hope that the im- portance of this discovery to our own country may not be lost sight of; but that immediate and extensive establishments may be formed for the manufacture of domestic Leghorns, as we cannot iloubl that surli establishments would meet with a liberal support from all classes of society. NEW ENGLAND FARMER. Published every Saturday, by 'I'llOMAS W. SHKl'ARU, Rogers' Building-, Conjrtss Htrct-t, Knstnu ; at $'2,M per ami. in advaiiLC, or $'.i,(H) at (hi close o! tlu y( ; 'OL, I. BOSTON, SATURDAY, OCTOBER 12, 1822. No. 11. ©A^^iLm ssiso'^^^rs. From the MiddliBex Observer, of Oct. 5i MIDDLESEX CATTLE SHOW. The Society of Middlesex Husbaiidmeti and Mamiractiirers held their annual lair in this town, on Thursday last. I The day was tine, and the number of citizens present from Various parts of the county, gave pleasing evidence of the increasing interest ta- ken in these useful exhibitions. At about iialf past 10 ©"clock tt procession, composed of the tnembers of the Society and others, proceeded from Mr. Darrah's Hotel to the Meetinar-house. where, after a very appropriate supplication to the Throne of Grace, by the Kev. Mr. Field of Weston, an Addiess was delivered by Mr. Fes- senden. As it is expected this Address will be published, we will make but a single remark concerning it, viz. that it fully answered the highest expectations of the audience. The procession then moved to the Courl- Houso, where the Committee on Manufacture's proceeded to examine the numerous articles presented for inspection. The remainder of the procession moved to the tield, on which the pens for the reception of animals were erected, and which were well tilled. Among the many (iuo animals whicb we noticed, we cannot help making particular mention of a superior yoke of steers, (four years old) belonging to Mr. Jo- diah Hayward, of Westt'ord, and a fat ox, (five years old, wt. 2000) belonging to Mr. Amos FJa- Tis, of Groton. Alter the animals, manufactures, Sic. had been inspected by the respective Committees, a com- pauv, consisting of nearly two hundred, partook of an excellent dinner provided by Air. iiarrah. The repast was concluded by drinking the following toasts, accompanied by a select band of music. 1. The Commonwealth of Massachtftctts — She knows where her strength lies — she has patronized agriculture and domestic manufactures. "1. Agriculture the first employment of man ; the pro- mise of seed time and harvest was made to such, and to such only as put their hands to the plough and look not back. 3. American Manufactures. — Their superiority is pro- ved by En;^lish imitators. We'll show them a yankee trick Ijy and by. 4. The farmer and mechanic, while they pay direct taxes, unequal in their operations, will find some ^^ specific''^ to render them equal. 5. The farmers' and manufacturers' holiday? — They have driven from thejield dice-boards and puppet-shows, and have made the most useful exhibitions a feast of pttasurei 6. Our brethren of South Am<'rica — They have sac- rificed thtijimliings of their flucks to liberty — we offei them the right hand of fellowship. 7. Our fair country women — Let your daughters be educated for domestic housewives, and there will be less show, more substance, and fewer old bachelors. By the President of the Socieii/. The Governor of this Commonwealth — The tried pat- riot— the gallant soldier. Bij General Parker. The encouragement of domestic manufactures — the only system of finance that can equalize our currency, and balance the aanual forty millions of surplus iaipor- tations.. Bv Jckr. A'lj'^'.-', r':^j. one of the Cuminitlie of ..'liTuni^t- mcnls. The Orator of the da)' — The doctrines he has this day taught us should operate like (juick-lirne, and quick- en us in our duty. At four O'clock, tlie several Committees re- paired to the Court-house, when the premiums were announced by the Secretary. Among the manufactures we noticed with pleasure an ele- gant carpet; wrought by Mrs. I'itls, of Chelms- ford, a tine straw bonnet, the production of Miss Dalrymple, of Marlborough; aiul a beautiful imitation Leghorn, made by Miss Sherman, of tiie last mentioned town. We likewise saw 4 beets, the average weight of which exceeded thirty pounds; a cornstalk, containing live large ears of corn; some very large apples, thoug'i none of the latter equalled the New-York too pounder. The performances of the Harmonic Society of this town, at the Meeting-house, and of the musicians who volunteered their .services as a band on the occasion, were deservedly well spoken of. The several Committees awarded the pre- miums as follows, viz. — To Capt. Uriah Manning of Woburn, for the best Bull, $15 To Uavid Perham, of Chelmsford, for the nest best, 6 To Benj. Wheeler, ofFramingham, for the best bull Calf, 4 To Josiah Hayward) of VVestford, for the best -Work- ing Oxen, 12 To Edward Wetherbee of .icton, for the nextbest do. C I'o Paul Adams, of Concord, for the best Milch Cow, 10 To Paul Adams, of Concord, for the best Heifer, 8 To Benj. Wheeler, of Franiingham, for the next b«-st, 4 To Amos Davis of Groton, for the best fatted Ox, 10 I'o Wm. Brown, of Concord, for the nextbest, 1 To Nathl. S. Beunet, of Framiiigham, for the best Boar, 4 To Cyrus Hubbard, of Concord, for the best Sow, 3 To Zadock Rogers, of Tewksbury, for the best pigs, four in number, 3 Cotton, Woollen^ and Linen Manufactures, S^-c. To Mr. Shepherd, of Watertown, for the best piece of Bi'O'ddcloth, 15 To the Rockbottom Manufacturing Company of .Marlboro' for the next best, being of raixt, 5 To Stephen Buttrick of Framiiigham, for the best piece of plain cloth, fi !'o Josiah Melviu, of Concord, for the next best, 4 fo the Rockbottom company, for the best piece of Kerseymere, not less than ten yards, 6 To Eli Brown, of Concord, for the best piece of Flannel, not less than 20 yards, 6 To Miss Mary Hurd, of Lincoln, (6 years of age,) for a coverlet, 1 To Mrs. Pitts, of Chelmsford, for the best piece of carpeting, C To Mrs. Beujamin, of Concord, for the next best, 3 To Miss Betsy Whitcomb, of Boxboro' for the best 'woollen coverlet, 4 To Mrs. Benjamin, of Concord, for the next best, 2 To John Buttrick, of Concord, for the best woollen blankets, 4 To Ephin. Osborn, of Dracut, for the best piece of linen diaper, 3 To Nehemiah Hunt, of Concord, for the next best, 2 To John Butman, of Tewksbury, for the best wool- en hose, 2 To Miss Emily Wheeler, of East Sudbury, for tlic next best, 1 To Kendall Baiiey, of Charlcstowu, for Morocco Skiua, 4 Concord, for the best pair, of To A!«i:.loore, Boots, for the best jiair Ladies' shoes, 1 for the best pair men's calf skin do. 1 To Wm. Parker, of Pepperell, (or the best Fool.?- cap Paper, 2 To Joshua Pushce, of .Vcton, for the best hogsheids, S for ths next best, 2 To Simon Tuttle, of Acton, for the be.^t barrels, 3 'I'o Daniel M'Clenuiug, of LiUleton, for the next best, 2 In-jentio7Ts, improvements in Alachinery, iinple- ihcnts of Husbandry., and all Manifactures, S,-c. not sj>ecitilly coitiniittcd to any other committee. To Mrs. farah Hov To .labez Brigham, of Worcester, for the next best, 3 To Nathan Stone, of W ard, for the best Linen Diaper, 8 To Lemuel Healy, of Dudley, for the best speci- men of Sewing Silk, 10 To Harmon Chamberlin, of Worcester, for two Linen damask Table-Cloths, 2 To Abigail Hapgood, of Shrewsbury, for a Straw Bonnet, 3 To Benjamin Read, of Tcmpleton, for the best Sole Leather, 10 To .Joseph Griggs & Co. of Millbury, for the best Calf Skins, " 10 To Jolin Aspinwall, of Millbury, for the best Mo- rocco, 6 To Stephen Hastings, of Sterling, for the best Butter, 7 To Oliver Barrett, of Bolton, for the next best, 5 To PhUcmon Wright, of Worcester, for the next best, - 3 To Francis Grout, of Worcester, for another speci- men, 2 To Ebenezer Tidd, of New-Braintree, for the best Cheese, 10 To Wm. F.arl, of do. for the next best, 5- To Seth Goddard, of Holdtn, for some excelUnt Barrels, 1 To Josiah Rice, of do. for same, 1 The Committee particularly mentioned sev- eral articles as worthy of praise, to which it was not in their power to award premiums, viz. a- piece of Linen Shirting, by Sibil Wilcox, of New-Braintree ; a Straw Bonnet, exhibited by Elias Whitney, of Lancaster; one by Jonathan Wood, of Worcester; one by Martha Ware, of Shrewsbury ; and one by Miss Green of Mendon : some very nice Maple Sugar, by Mr. Riug, ol" Hardwick; a superb Fowling Piece, by Silas Allen, of Shrewsbury ; a Patent Time-Piece by Simon Willard, of Roxbury ; some superior Hats, by Joseph F. Seaver, of Norlhborough ; an ele- gant Covering to a Musick Seat, by Mrs. Eliza- beth Davis, of Worcester ; a tasteful specimen of Needle Work, by Miss Lincoln, of Worcester ; some well manufactured Sole Leather, b}' Mr. Davis, of Northborough ; Calf-Skins, by Messrs. Davis; Morocco, by Messrs. Griggs hips, if necessary, for maintaining the poor — and our township, at the last census, contain- ed eleven hundred and seventy-seven persons." There are not any paupers. Mrs. Judson, wife of a Missionary, has arrived at Philadelphia frona India. 84 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. MASSACHUSETTS AGRICULTURAL REPOSITORY AM) JOURNAL, FOR JUNE. (Continued from p. 63.) A letter to the Correspoiulin^: Secretary, on the subject of Fruit Trees, with the signature, " A Norfolk Gardener," contains the following judicious observations : '• The health, habits and fruitfulness of a tree depend upon the habits it receives in the nur- sery. First. The health of the tree depends in pari on the soil of the nursery, which should be I'rec from manure, and as nearly a gooil viifjin soil as possible. This soil will give sufficient nour- ishment to the plant without tbrcing it into lux- uriance ; and when it is trnn-p!aiitcd from the nursery it will not be checked in its growth il the soil into which it is put has never been ma- nured. Younj trees are more healthy by being put into pure natural earth than if manured ; and when age an;l decay come upon them they will feel the benefit of this stimulus, if applied, with more effect. One of the principal causes of ill health or canker in young trees taken from nurseries is, that the nurserj; men seldom take the trouble To cut off the wood above the bud close to its .shoulder, leaving a smooth and sloping surface. !f they were to do this the wound would heal 'he tirst season ; but they usually leave a srn.ill piece iVom which the top has been sliced oil without car^; or rellection half an inch aliove the shoulder of the shoot or bud, and of course bevond the reach of the sap which issues from it, and from the edge of the live bark to cover tlie cut. This piece of wood dies, and it will soon communicate its disease to the sound bark and wood, until the eMl is beyond the reach of ihe knif<^. Second. The habits of a tree depend in a great measure on the quality of the scion or bud which is ])ut into it, and on the direction given to its branches in the training and pruning them. The scion or bud should never be taken from a tree that is unhealthy, or that is not in hear- ing; and the strong and luxuriant shoots should always be rejected. It is even better never to take them from a tree that is very luxuriant in its growth. Ifitbean apple, or pear tree, select your scions from the end, or near the end of the fruit bearing branches. The buds of the shoot should bo plump, full and healthy. The middling •sized scions are the best. The y(umg tree will assume the character of the scion which is in- serted into it, and will grow moderately or oth- erwise; fruitt'ully or barren, according to the judgment u-t'd in selecting the scions and prun- ing its branches. If it be a peach that you are to bud, take Ihe fruit bearing shoots of a moderate size with doul)le and triple buds. These will put out bk-'Soms in the spring, which may be rubbed off when the wood bud has opened, and the sec- ond year your tree will show fruit. Whereas trees grafted or budded from strong gluttonous shoots grow vigorously for many years without giving the cultivator any returns for his labour. i have trees, both pears and peaches, in my gar- den, which were taken from a ]iublic nursery more than ten j'ears ago, and which have al- wa.s been growing with rapidity, and in appar- eat good health, but which DCver produced me any fruit ; and 1 have otiiers which 1 have bud- ded myself, which have been constantly science, that 1 call Semi Geometry, and which teaches how to project al- most every thing necessary in country business, with a plain scale of equal parts, and pair of dividers, without any calculations by numbers. 1 carried it so far as to project extracting the cube root aiul gauging casks, and finding their ullage. To find the contents of a cask by semi geome- try is a very handsome projection, but the fig- ure cannot be intelligibly described in a newspa per, without a large plate — yet, to such as are well versed in Euclid 1 may render myself in- telligible, for to such if they are expert with a scale and dividers the contents of a cask, without any calculation, may be projected into a paral- lelogram, of equal contents superficial measure. That for a large cask, would ho extensive, and may be reduced, although 231, the cubic inches in a gallon, is an uncouth number to divide — it will divide by 3 and 77 only; then suppose the parallelogram, is i)rojected for 3 inches deep, we liave 77 to divide again, that will divide by 7 and 11 only, then project the reduced parallelo- gram to one of equal content 11 wide, then step ofl" the gallons by 7. Semi Geometry is a science that all farmers ought to learn, in order to he ready to lay out an}' kind of farmers or mechanical business. In my treatise of arithmetic 1 taught decimals with whole numbers from the first numeration table, in order to suit the currency of the I'nit- cd States. 1 taught that there was but simply the ju'/if numbers in nature, that any thing fur- ther than nine was but repetition, according to place in the numeration table. That nine was the Cro'^i-ii A'umhrr, and would prove any cal- culation within the tour rules in whole numbers, and taught how to prove them, as also if there was an error in mu!tii)lication to shew whether it was made in multiplying or adding, and if in long division whether in multiplying or sub- tracting. When I came to treat of interest, 1 disliked very much any rules that 1 could find published for calculating interest fer days or broken time, as the work was too tedious and too much lost in little fractional remainders to be correct. I tried a variety of ways to form some better and more exact rule that would not require so many figures — until 1 discovered nine proportion- ale Logarithms (and there is no more in nature) that will shew the interest of any broken sum of dollars and cents for any broken time or num- ber of days, or at any rate per ceat — and bring out the whole in one sum to the ten thousandth part of a cent, with less figuring than any other mode, and without any division, which 1 believe the greatest of my discoveries. I shewed them at several of the banks that I could calculate interest quicker and more cor- rect than any clerks they had — but they spurn- ed at such instruction. I then tried to sell my copy right to several printers — they would not buy it because they said it was not like Dil- ■worths and other treatises. 1 told them if it was like other treatises there would be no need for them to buy it — and that if pef'ple would be such slaves to custom as not to look at any thing new, they never would advance in improve- ment. At this advanced period of life I believe that my labours for the benefit of the public must die with me, except some few ideas that may be retailed in newspapers. SAMUEL PRESTON. Stockport, Pa. Sept. 19, 1822. Camden, (N. J.) September 17. We have seen a specimen of Cotton of a strong and silky texture, raised in a garden of i\ gentleman in Camden; most of the pods on the stalks are likely to come to maturity, although the seeds were planted quite late ia the spring. Wc understand that the cotton has been pro- nounced by a gentleman from Louisiana, equal to that which grows in the southern States. — Who knows but that the cultivation of cotton, on particular species of soil in West Jersey, may at some future period, become au object worth the attention of the farmer 1 1 66 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. it. m. irAmMMiB. BOSTOK.—S.ITURDAY, OCT. VI, i;i22. BRIGHTON FAIR AND CATTLE SHOW. The annual exhibition of Cattle and Manu- factures was holden at Brighton on the f th and 10th inst. The fair v.as attcndod by " '^Tge concourse of citizens from Massachuselts and the adjoining States, including some from the southern '.section of the Union. Fine animals, line manufactures, fine vegetables, rare, curious snd useful macliines, the best products of the soil, and the best results of mechanical ingenui- ty, proofs of industry excited by emulation and guided by skill. Were exhibited in profusion. Detailed accounts of all that was worthy of no- tice would be too voluminous for insertion, and arc rendered unnecessary at this time, as we propose to publish the official reports of the several cotntnittcea, as soon as received. At one o'clock, of the first day, the Society went in procession to the Meeting House. A prayer by the Rev. Dr. Foster, and an Adilress by the Hon. Timothy Pickering, composed the exercises at that place. Mr. Pickering's .Ad- dress was plain, practical, and replete with val- uable information. The subjects treated of, (such as the theory of vegetation, the food of plants, the uses of lime and the mode of its operation, &c.) were some of them abstruse, but rendered fis perspicuous as possible by the ven- erable Orator, who adapted his style to the un- lettered as well as to the learned hearer, by giving the common as well as the scientific name to such substances and ideas as could not be supposed to be familiar to all classes of his audience. On the second day of the Exhibition, at 4 o'clock, P. M. the Premiums were declared in •he Meeting House. The first premium of glO for fat oxen ivas awarded to Mr. Oliver Starr, of Deerfickl — this animal was six years old and weighed 2333 lbs. — 2d premium ^30, to Lewis Barnard, of Worcester, animal six years old, weighing 225G lbs. To Maj. Jaques, of Charles- town, for his Bull, 1st premium, ^^'0 — 2d do. to Mr. Coolidge, of Watertown. To the owner of a Cow from Salem ^30. Several other fine an- imals were spoken of as richly deserving a pre- mium. For Heifers, the 1st premium was a- warded to Henry Rice, of Marlborough, for one two years old, with a calf six weeks old, weigh- ing 8C 1-4 lbs. — 2d do. to Samuel Brooks, of Brighton. For the best Boar, to .loscph Rice, glO. Mr. Sparks, of Watertown, 2d best, >^o. For four Pigs, to Luke Fiske, g5. To A. Dow p. For a Merino Ram, the first premium was awarded to Gorham Parsons, Esq. — 2d to Gen. Austin. Mr. S. Jaques, of Leicester, received a pre- mium of ^50, for a breed of long wooled Sheep, 6 ewes and 1 lamb. A Ram and two Ewes, re- markable for heavy fleece, fine wool, k,z. were exhibited by Hon. T. H. Perkins, though not for premium. The committee, however, are of opinion, that he ought to be presented with the Society's gold medal. Twelve yoke of Working Cattle were enter- ed. The 1st premium, jpSO, was given to Lu- ther Whiting, of Sutton— 2d do. f 25, to Peter Dudley, of Sutton. Several other premiums were divided among people Irom that town. Among the Inventions was a cast iron roller, by Aaron Willard. A Vertical Family Spinner, which has been for some time in use in Rhode Island, was well spoken of for its labor saving qualities. Of Manufactures, the 1st premium of $30, for Broadcloths, was awarded to James Shepherd &. Co. of Northampton— 2d do. g20, to Wolcott Woollen Manufactory — 2d do. on Cassimeres to Shepherd ic Co. To George Johnson, Salem, for a quantity of American Duck, ^10. There were only three premiums awarded at the Ploughing Match, viz. to J.Cook, of Brook- line, 1st premium ^20 — to J. Curtis, Roxbury, 2d do. $12 — To Stedman Williams, Roxbury, ffS. The work was done in from 22 to 46 minutes, making 18 to 20 furrows. The above is but a hasty sketch of the pro- ceedings on this occasion, and is partly the re- sult of personal observation, and in part abridg- ed from the Boston Daily Advertiser. We hope it will allay, if not gratify, public curiosity, till the official account is receivedi Ojr SAVI.VC AND M^UflSG THE MOST OF MANIRE. {Conlinutd from page 63.) In our preceding observations under this head, we took a concise view of the controversy existing among agricultural writers as well as practical farmers relative to long and short, fermented and unfermented manure, and mentioned the names and opinions of some eminent writers, who had taken opposite sides of the question. ^Ve likewise attempted to shew that the disputants were not, in our opinion, exactly right, nor altogether wrong — That in certain soils and for certain crops, long manure, which had undergone hut a slight and incipi- ent fermentation, was to be preferred — but when used for white crops, and indeed any crops which cannot conveniently be hoed or weeded, or probably when applied to soils containing acids or some principles which would prevent fermentation, and stop the pro- gress of putrescence and dissolution, it must be well rotted. Rotting manure, however, in a baru-yard or in any situation in which its volatile and liquid products es- cape into the atmosphere, or soak into ground not de- signed to support vegetation, is very slovenly and wasteful, and always to be avoided if possible. The steam, effluvia, or gas which is suffered to escape from fermenting manure, is not only almost altogether lost to useful vegetation, but, what is still worse, fills the atmosphere with particles injurious to health, and often destructive to life. The evaporations from a manure yard rob the farmer of a part of his sub.stance, starve his crops, and it is well if they do not moreover poison him and his family by their contaminating influence. Some farmers' barn-yards, hog-pens, and other recep- tacles of manure are very offensive, and if they do not generate typhus fever in its worst form, which wc fear is frequently the case, they at least cause a degree a languor and debility which embitters existence, and ii a grt at measure disqualifies for any of the useful pur poses of life. It is a fact that those exhalations, sc injurious to animal life, arc the essence of vegetable life, and the volatile substances, which offend out i- senses and injure our health, if arrested in their transit by the hand of skilful industry, may be so modified in the great laboratory of nature as to greet us in the fragrance of a flower, regale us in the plum or nectar- ine, or furnish the stamina of life in substantial viands, composed of materials drawai from the butchers' sh.am- bles. If we are correct in these premises, an important axiom may be deduced, viz. A~o pulrtfaclire proctss ought to be suffered to proceed on a farmers' premises lothout his adopting some mode to save, as far as pos-' sible, the gaseous products nf svch putrescence. These gaseous products constitute important elements of vegetable food, and a farmer may as well permit liis cattle to stray from his stall, or his swine from his styej without a possibility of reclaiming them, as suffer the principles of fertility, expelled by fermentation and putrefaction, to escape into the atmosphere for the purpose of poisoning the air, instead of feeding his plants. It is very easy to arrest these particles. A quantity of (arth applied to, or thrown over the natter in which fermentation is going on, will check its vio- lence, and secure its gaseous products, which will be imbibed by the soil and afterwards yielded to plants in such proportion as the wants of vegetation may require. " Fermentation," says an able writer, " that great destroyer of all organic contbrmation, is not to be feared by the farmer, if it be conducted and carried on in the presence of earth, which fixes and secures the gases as fast as they are liberated. Even the degree of the pro- cess is a matter of less consequence ; because if the elementary principles are in keeping, and reserved for future usefulness, it is immaterial whether this has happened by a new absorption, or by still holding th(:ir original and unchanged form. In his composite hill [compost heap] the whole animal or vegetable struc- ture may be dissolved, and leave behind no trace of existence, without the least waste of the principh s of fertility ; because the ingredients superadded to the dung have become surcharged with them, or to speak philosophically, fully saturated. 'We may go farther and state, that complete decomposition is desirable in this case, %vhich is so much to he avoided in' the farm yard ; because putrescent matter can only become vegetable food by its resolution into primary parts, and if this be effected by any preparatory step, the young crop receives the full and instantaneous benefit. The compost manure is carried to the field ready to give out its richness on the very first call, and to supply the' nascent radicle [young root] with a copious share of nourishment. " The putrefactive process may be carried on in the presence of pure earth only, or of earth intermingled with fibrous roots, or lastly, in the presence of peat, which is an assemblage of inert vegetable matter; and compost dunghills may be formed according to this threefold method. " The simplest of all composts is a mixture of barn yaid dung, and surface mould taken from a field under regular culture. The proportions between the ingredi- ents are fixed by no determinate laws, and consequent- ly great liberty is allowable to the operator. I have known some instances where two cart loads of dung were used for one of earth ; others, where they were blend- ed in equal quantities ; and it is not infrequent to com- pound two of earth with one of dung. In fact, such is the uncertainty in the composition, that almost every farmer adopts a mode peculiar to himself, and with equal success. No man need therefore follow implicity the rules which are laid down in this department of rural economy, but may vary and multiply his experi. mi nts, according to the suggestions of fancy or the dic- tates of convenience. If we slightly glance at the prin- ciple, wc shall see the cause of this seemingly endless variety in the combiuatioiis qI Uie ingredients. Th« NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 87 inly use of intermixing the soil with the dung is to im- libe the gaseous elements of vegtable life, and hindrr heir dissipation. If there be mncl\ soil, these elements fill be dilfused through it with less density and com- iression ; if little, it will be more iibun-ent to disagree, and think differently from your friend williuut quarelling with him. To be very subtle and scrupulous in business is as hurtful as to be over confident and secure. To hazard much in order to get much, savors more of avarice than of wisdom. There is no character in society more to be pitied, as well as despised, than the idler. He is not only irk- some to himself, but he hinders the industry of others. 13i?hop Taylor once said to a lady who neglected the education o( her son, on the plea that he was too young to he confined to study, " Madam, if yon don't fill your son's head with something the devil will." Happiness ever flies away fastest when most eagerly pursued, and no galley slaves labor harder than those who di!Votc their lives to the pursuits of pleasure. He who has the character of a crafly and tricking man, is entirely depri\ed of a principal instrument ol business, and will find nothing succeed to his wish. Though the life of man be short of a hundred years lie gives himself as much pains and anxiety as if he were to live a thousand. The celebrated Dr. Cotton Mather, as a precaution against the calamity of tedious visitors, wrote over the door of his studv in large letters, be short^ From Relf's Philadelphia Gazette. THE S-tLUTINO BOK.VET. Mr. Relj — I can give no better name than the above to some of the t'ashionable Leghorns which are now worn by the ladies. The front brim is so constructed and protruded, that the motion of the lady's walk keeps it in a perpetu- al noilding action; and ! defy any person, w.th the same eye-sight 1 possess to ascertain across the street, whether the ladies mean that you should tiAich your lint in return. 1 have com- mitted several mistakes in this wrty ; and have, afterwards found, to my no small chagrin, that it was not the lady, but the lady's bonuet, that was so familiarly nodd'ng to me across the street. It was only yesterday morning as I was coming down Chesnut street I was thus nodded to by three ladies on the other side. It was so very familiar, that I could not with any pretensions; to gallantry avoid crossing, when lo ! to my utter t contusion the ladies were perfect strangers td me! — Asking pardon, I made a clumsy congee, i and proceeded on my walk. This head attire might lead to some unpleasant effects, or mis- understandings. Yours, A Middle Aged Beau. A Clinchep.. — This term is frequently used, but its origin is not generally known. It is thus gi^ en by an English magazine. Two journey- men mechanics were one day contending- for siijieriority in the art of invention, and at length laid a wager which of them cotild coin the greatest lie. When the stakes were deposited, he that was to begin declared that one moon- light night he threw a ten-penny nail with such force that it went quite through the body of th( lunar orb. which was then at its lull. '' That's true," said his opponent, " for 1 was on tht other side at the very moment, and with m^. claw hammer 1 clinched the nail." The lasj fellow was adjudged the prize, and from tha time every outrageous falsehood has been term cd a clinchef. - i New Pkdestkiamsm. — An idle disorderly fel low at an inn, having proposed to walk for ; wager, " you had better," said the landlord "• walk about your business." Turkish Logic. — A young man desperately ii love with a girl of Stanchio, early sought t marrv her, but his proposals were rejected, li consequence, he destroyed himself by poison.— The Turkish police arrested the father of th' obdurate fair, and tried him for ctilpablo homi cide. If the accused (argued they with becom ing gravity) had not had a daughter, the deceas ed would not have fallen in love, consequenfl; he would not have been disappointed, conse quently he would not have swallowed poisoEi consequently he would not have died ; buth' (the accused) had a daughter, and the decease j had fallen in love, &c. Upon all these counts h 'I was called ujion lo pay the price of the younjj man's life; and this being tixed at eighty pias; tres, was accordingly exacted. It was said that the pope advised Petrarch t| marry Laura — but that the poet refused becaus he feared that the familiarity of marriage wool extinguish his passion. A blunt pcr.son on rear ing tlie anecdote observed, '• there is a fool wh ' won't eat his diQucr. lest he should lose his a[ petite " NEW ENGLAND FARMER. Published everj' ?>atur(!ay, by THOM \^ W. SHKPARIJ, Kopi\^^ fJiiil ii.i^, (.'oiiguss Str. tl, Enttou ; at j^^.OO ptr ann. ill aii \ Ml)*! . ..J ■■ .'..\l\f at til' Vol. I. BOSTON, SATURDAY. OCTOBCK 19. 1822. No. 12. ^t a rei^ular mteliivi of the Sociely uf MuUlkacx Hus- bandmen and .^Iiinuftidnrfrs, holdrn nl DarruWs Hold, in Concord, on liie 2d day of Oct. A. D. 1822, VOTED— That David Lawrexce, John Keyes and Nathan Crooks, Esq'rs. be a Committee to present the thanks of the Soci. ty to THOMAS G. FESSKNDEN, Esa. for his excelUnt and usiful Address delivered before the Socictj' this day, and to request that the same may be published iu the New England Farmer for the use of the Society. Extract from the records of the Society. N. BROOKS, Recordini; Secretary, ^Ir. President, and Gentlemen Trustees of the Siicictt/ of. 'Middlesex Husbandmen and Manufacturers, Having had but short notice to prepare tor the present occasion, and a variety of other avoca- tions presentinsr imperious claims to my atten- tion, I am apprehensive I shall not he able to answer what may be deemed reasonable antici- pations. The embarrassment, caused by these circumstances, is increased by reflecting that the subjects, which it would be proper for me to discuss, are not only of g:reat importance, (Mifc have, heretofore, commanded the exertions and tested the powers of the tirst talents in the United States. I am invited to reap in a field where the harvest has been already g-athered by such laborers as Mr. Madisou, Mr. Pickermg', Mr. (iuincy, Mr. Lowell, and others, who carry a wide swarth, make clean work, and scarcely leave a single straw to be picked up by those ivho are called upon to glean on the s.ime ground. Still, althoujjh my toils may produce but a pittance, they will, at least, serve as indi- cations of good will towards the cause of Agri- culture and the Useful Arts ; and we kno«' that the widow's mite was as acceptable as if it had been the largess of an Emperor, or the revenue of a kingdom. The pursuits of agriculture have been held in the highest estunation among the wisest and most powerful nations. Indeed to neglect that art would indicate a want of wisdom, and the consequence of such neglect would be a want of power. Where husbandry excites but little attention, there can be hut little worth attend- ing to. The couveuiences and comforts of life must be unknown ; and even its necessaries — its indispensables, must have a flucluatiiig and pre car;0us existence. Distress waits on improvi dence ; w ant treads on the heels of indolence ; diseiise and death close the ghastly procession. Thus famine was iretpient among the aboriginal tribes of New England, and together with pesti- lence, its usual concomitant, desolated the land, and left largo tracts of country without an in- habitant to impede the settlement of the pil- grims. The natives of this country owed those calamities, and at length their utter extinction. to their ignorance of agriculture, and want of acquaintance with those arts which give sub- sistence, and minister comfort to civilized man. Had the poor Indians been Husbandmen and Manufacturers, this part of the continent v. ould have been still possessed by its primitive inhab- itants. Should we neglect the arts, and (lay no attention to the pursuits of the IlusbaQdoian and Maiuifacturcr. we loo must cease to be a nation ; and our country will be occupied by a stronger, because a wiser people, to whom superior knowledge in Agriculture and Useful Arts has given sujierior power. The United Stales will then exist only in story, arid occupy only a few pages in the annals of alien possessors of this goodly heritage of our fathers. | Important as Agriculture is. Manufactures c:ui hardly be deemed of less consequence. They must advance hand in hand, or they will both go backward. United they sland^dividod they fall. They are the Urim and Thumni m of n;i- tion.ll greatness, as well as the Alpha ami Ome- ga of individual [irosperity. To talk of any clashing in their interests is to speak of ho-lilily between the right and the left hand of the same individual. If oue is sick, the other will faint. If one perishes, the other must soon be annihi- lated. .Agriculture without iManuiactures would give us farmers without tools, and Manufictures without Agriculture would produce mechanics without bread. Adam could not have dressed the garden of Eden without first becoming a mechauic, or being furnished with the necessary implements of husbandry by the Almighty Ar- rizAN, who exiiibits the Universe as a sample oi his Manufactures. Since, then, not only our prosperity, but even our national existence depends on the successful pursuits of Agriculture and Manufactures, what can we do to promote them ? This is a question of as great importance as any thing of a finite niiiure, which can possibly call for the exercise of the licst intellectual powers and faculties giv- en to man by his Creator. To state all v.luch shouKI he done would require a complete and very voluminous Cyclojiedia. I shall therei'ore confine myself to some remarks relative to whai ()w^7« nrjt to he oinitud, if we wish agriculture tc acquire and maintain that strength and stabilit\ winch should be attributes of the principal pil- lar ol' public and private prosperity. As res- jiects manul'actures, I shall have but little fur iher to observe ; lest, peradventure, 1 shotiM have more threads to my discourse than m. sia[de will warrant — more irons in the fire than I can handle to advantage. In order that agriculture may prosper, I. Its pursuit must bo considered as honorable. II. It must be made jirolitable. III. It must be conducted with skill as well as with industry. The pursuits of agriculture, are, probably, rising in public estimation. Still we do uoi believe they have yet risen to their proper elevation. That a further ascent may be el fected, agriculture must continue to commaui the attention and patronage of men of wealth, of talents, of reputation, and of high olficial character. Persons who have it in their power to mould the manners and excite and direct th: industry of mankind should not consider them selves as too great to be useful, and should throw the weight of their precepts, examplL and inlluence into the scale of agriculture — they should employ their heads if not their hands, their money if not their personal labor, in promoting an art, which, if neglected, would place them as well as ilieir inferiors on a level with savages. The}' have great examples to serve as ))recedents. The Emperor of China does not think that it derogates from his dignity to act the part of a ploughman. Tlie great Czar of Kussia did not disdain to labnr as a me- chanic. Some of the principal noblemen in (rreat Britain are proud of being farmers ; and many of them have added to their wealth, and gained distinctions more honorable than those of birth or title, by being authors of mechanical inventions and improvements. Washington like- wise was a farmer, who gloried in his occupa- tion. Yet among savages and dandies, and fools who are anxious to figure in high life, without manners or means, without wil, wealth or wis- dom, contrary to the decrees of nature and the habits of nurture, rural occupations are thought degrading; and to cultivalc the ground is con- sidered as the bitterest punishment of poverty, or the liist shift of unsuccessful knavery. The following is a vivid, and probably faith- ul picture of that kind of pride which causes some aspiring characters " Downwards to soar, and backwards to advance." It was taken from .real life, as it exists, or lately existed in a neighboring Province. It is not a caricature, not was it meant to bo a likeness of any thing belongit.e^ to New England. If, then, any persons to whom we now take the liberty to exhibit if, should happen to perceive nny -imilitudo to their own ieiaures, or those of their friends, they may congratulate themselves on the rer^eniblance, but may be assured that it is entirely accidental. " When any of the farmers of Nova Scotia were so successful as to amass a little wealth, they were sure to escape from the plough and betake themselves to some other pursuit. The keeper of a tippling-house, the retailer of rum, ^ugar and tea, the travelling chapman, the con- stable of the district, were far more important personages, both in their own estimation and ihat of the public, than the farmer who culti- vated his own lands. The farmer was thought to be of the lowest caste in society, and gave .ilace to others, who, according to the Europe- an standard of rank and consequence, arc con- fessedly his inferiors. This sense of degrada- iion was perceptible among husbandmen them- selves. Such of them as were under the ne- cessity of working set about it wi'.h reluctance, and always under a mortifying sense of shame. They would blush to bo caught at the plough b\ their genteeler acquaintance, as much as it surprised in the commission of crime ; and if ihev saw them approaching, many of them would skulk from the field, and plunge into the neighboring thicket. The children were easily .niected w.lh this humbling sense of inferiority i and the labors of the tarm were to the young men objects of aversion, as those of the dairy were to the young women. Hence the family were brought up with habits and feelings, in- consistent with their stations in life ; and that respcctalde class of men, known in England, as the ancient yeomanry of the country, wiio were the owners and cultivators of their oivn lands, 90 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. had DO footing; hi the Province. The profes- sion of the farmer vv;ls considereil as aliject, low and debasinjr. The daujiiter of a t'armcr, l}ie least above povcrlv. demeaned herself by milk- in'^ a cniv. The sons, again, made lil'le other «3e a*" tlie horses than to ride to cluirch or mar- ket, and instead of being accustomed to i)lo«2fh- ing, drilling', reaping:, composting, and such like operations, they croudeti to the capitol, as clerks and shop-ljoys, and many of them turned smugglers. The plough was far from being accounted honorable, and the handling of it was deemed an act of self abasement." Thus it is with mankind, the most preposter- ous of all beings. They glory in tht-ir shame, and are ashamed of their glory I We hope that the portraits we have exhibited, have no fac similes in the Uniteil States. Tiiat the olT-ipring of New England I'armers do not consider them- selves as degraded by attention to the useful and honorable occupations of agriculture and rural economy. We have, however, seen the time when certain of the fair daughters of Co- lumbia, were apparently more solicitous to inuke line llgures in a ball room than fine cheeses in a dairy room — would rathfr make pound cake for a tea party tlian an Iiulian pud- ding for a family dinner — would prefer spend- ing the day in reading romances, visiting and receiving the visits of idle acijuainlance to reg- ulating iiie economy of the kitchen or pantry, mending or making their own apjiarel or that of their fathers or brethren. In siinrt there once existed a sort of females, (now eillier ex- tinct or out oi' I'ashion) wlio pured over nonsen- sical novels till they became *"o genteel, so in- dolent, so delicate, so romantic, so sentimental, so susceptible of every thing that is inexpressi- hly tender and o.i.'iuisite beyond all conception — so very like the Cecilias, the Evelinas, the Docasinas and Cherubinas, whom they made their models, that they were as useless as but- torllies, though as proud as peacocks ! They considered themselves as too nice for the cares and duties of life ; and if one of them was over- persuaded to marry a country suiter who culti- vated the ground, she considered herself as no hotter matched than was the unlucky parrot in the fable, who formed a connubial union with an owl ! i hope the ladies will pardon this sketch, when assured that there are probably none of this species of fallen angels now in be- ing, at least in this part of creation. Time has hecn, also, when certain young men were so much superior to the Emperor of China, that they had rather tend a tavern bar than follow a hrcakin^-up plough — would prefer figuring as dandy sliop-boys with a ho|)eful prospect of being duly qualified for becoming broken mer- rlianls, to living respected and respectable, as hard}', independent, stout-bodied, strong minded yeomen, pillars of freedom, and capital columns in the social fabric. We sjieak oi' these things, however, merely by way of reminiscence — wor- thy to be noted among the memorabilia of for- mer ages. Already, the wise jind the worthy h;i\ e set their faces against the ridiculous and pernicious pritle to which we have adverted, and every good patriot stigmatizes such effem- inacy, such meanness of spirit, such littleness of mind peeping I'lom benetith the veil of pseudo- gentility, with his most pointed reprobation. This kind of fals' pride ntiy now be numbered with the anti(iuated and exploded follies of the hoop-pctficoats and full bottomr;ense, however, is of more consequence to the cultivator than any, or indeed than all the other before mentioned qualifications, ."sci- ence without good sense will be apt to till a man's head with visionary schemes, and urge him on to ruinous projects. Such a person will be liable to form an attachment to erroneous theories and injurious processes, merely be- cause he can give what he calls good reasons for being wrong; and will ruin himself by rule, according to sound maxims laid down by good authors — not because the maxims are incorrect, but because our gentleman-farmer, with every kind of sense hut common sense, abounding in that kind of knowledge which profiteth nothing, whose light of intellect is like that of a jack a' lantern, glimmering to betray, misapplies hi* rules to cases for which they never were de- signed, and to which they are altogether inap- plicable. Good sense without science is prefer- able to science without good sense, but fli# ' union of both is necessary in order to produce the bc'i ed'ect of cither. .•\s science without good sense will sometimes lead into great errors, so industry without skill is not only of little avail, but often injurious. A man may work hard, but if he does not •• work it right,-' he may as well fold his hands with the sluggard and give care to the wind as go to bed with the whip-poor-will, rise ^vith the lark, and toil with the emmet. It maj' be asked, in ivhat does this skill, which 1^ the essence of farming, consist? To answer this question would be to give a complete trea- tise on agriculture and rural economy. By at- tempting to do this, I should at once exhaust your ])atienco, and betray my own incapacity. But lest you should think that 1 am stepping altogether out of my sphere in attempting to address experienced cultivators on subjects of this kind, I beg leave to premise that I had the honor to be bred a farmer, and wrought on and superintended a farm till about twenty years of age. Since that period 1 have never lost sight i>f my original occupation, but have attempted to add to my knowledge, derived from experi- ence, by reading, observation, and conversation with practical farmers, on subjects counectcd with their profession. By undertaking to survey the whole field of agriculture 1 should not only be lost in its im- mensity, but, by running over more ground than 1 can cultivate, be guilty of an error which has often been censured in my practical brethren. 1 shall, therefore, for the remainder of this iddress, confine myself to some remarks on SOIL, a knowledge of which may be said (with- out a pun) to compose the ground work of agri- cultural improvement. " Let every planter, with discretion meci. The force aiul genius oi each soil explore, To what adapted, what it shuns averse ; AVithont this necessary care, in vaiu He hopes au ample harvwt." ■ NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 91 There are but four kinds of earth which con- stitute the globe. These are Clay, Sand, Lime and Magnesia. Lime and magnesia are so far similar in their properties, that lor my purpose, it may not be necessary to treat of them separ- ately. Stones are composed of these earths in a concrete and hardened state. Gravel is either aluminous (or clayey^ gravel, silicious (or sandy) gravel, calcareous (or limy) gravel, or a mix- ture of two or more of these. Loam and marl, likewise, are composed of different proportions of these two or three sorts of earth. Clay, sand and lime, together with vegetable and animal remains, and comparatively minute quantities ol salts and acids compose the vast varieties of soils which are denominated good, bad, wet. dry, cold, warm, light, heavy, rich, poor, bar- ren, fertile, &c. Sic. Every soil is more or less utal)le and unequivocal can he pro- duced to corroborate them. The author of Letters of Agricola says, '■'■ It is fact that lime is indispensable to the production of superior wheat crops. The rye lands of Herefordshire, which were reported by Dr. Beale in the year lG3l3, as incapable of producing wheal, have been so much fertilized by the subsequent in- troduction of this fossil manure as to be suc- cessfully applied to the growth of that and eve- ry other grain. This and similar effects may be referable m part to the subserviency of this which it may be accomjilished, ivithout having recourse to costly materials or implements of analysis. '■ In the field to be examined, take earth a little be- low the surface from four separate places, about one tburth rjf a pound, avoirdupois, from each. Kxpose it to the sun, or before the tire, till it is complttely dry ; and turn it over frequently that it may be well mixed togethiT. Krom the heap take exactly four ounces, and pass this through a fine sieve, whicli will allow all panicles of sand and gravel to escape, but which will hold back stones, small fibrous roots, and decayed wood. Weigh the two parts separately, and take a note of each. I'he stones and other bulky materials are then to be examined apart from the roots and wood. If they are hard and rough to the touch, and scratch glass easily, they are silicious or flinty ; if they are without much ditficulty broken to pieces by the fingers, and can be scraped by a knife to powder, they are alu- minous or clayey ; or if when put in a wine glass and common \iiiegar poured upon them, small air bubbles asc< nd to the fop of the liquid, they are calcareous, i he findy divided matter which ran through the sieve, must next undergo the test of experiment. After being weighed, agitate tiie whole in water, till the earth be taken up from the bottom, and mechanically suspend- ed, adding water till this efi'ect be produced. Allow the mass then to settle for two or three minutes, and in that time the sandy particles shall have all sunk to the bottom. I'our off the water, which will then contain the clay in sus]iension, and the insoluble earth arising from animal and vegetable decomposition. T he sand should first be attended to, and if from inspection, it be tliouglit * ither silicious or calcareous in its nature the requisite tests may be instantly applied. By this lime the niixturi' will have deposited at the bottom of the vessel th:- clay, and other earths, with the insoluble aninial and v(g< table matter. After pouring off the water, diy thi seiliment, and apply a strong heat by placing it on the bottom of a pot, ignited to redness, [heated red hot,] and the animal and vegetable matter will burn, and lly off in aeriform products. The re- mainder, lying in the bottom, will be found to consist of clay, magnesia or lime. To obtain accuracy, anoth- er one fourth [lound of earth should be taken from the same heap, and th*- whole process gone over a second, a third, and even a fourth time, Uiat the operator mav rectil'y anyjplunders he had previously committed, and be satisfiecHis to the results of his experiment. He should provide himself with a pair of fine scales and a set of weights, divided at least into ounces and drachms. Although vinegar will defect lime by effervescence, it does not dissolve it so eiTectually as the nitric or muri- atic acid, [aqua forfis, or spiiits of sea salt] small quan- tities of which may be procured from tlio druggists at no great expense," earth to the more perfect formation of the veg- etable structure ; for we know that birds, if confined to a cage, will lay eggs with soft shells So wheat may labor under some antilogous im- perfection, unless the carbonate of lime cotncs within reach of its roots." 1 might multiply authorities on this subject, but shall content myself with one more quota- tion from •• Anderson's Recreations,"' a work held in high estimation in Kurope. " 1 had." says Dr. Andeiv:on, "a litdd of good arable land, a mellow loam iu Aberdeenshire, which had been long in culture, often dressed with animal and vegetable manure*, aud was of course eudoived with a considerable degree of fertility; but being full of weeds it was subject- ed to a thorough summer fallow in order to get rid of these aud bring it to proper tilth in other respects ; aud as lime is tuund to be an active manure in that district, it had a moderate dres.s- mg of lime put upon it, and some dung at the same time. The whole field was sown with ivheat at the proper season, which sprang up equally thick on every part of it. For some time no diflcrence was perceivable in the . ap- pearance of the crop over the whole ; but b^- and bye, it was observed that the wheat on a small jiortion of the field, which by accident had not had any lime put upon it, became pale and sickly. ^^ bile the crop in other parts of the field advanced luxuriantly, it dwindled in this particular (lalch more and more, till towards the beginning of May, t-ie whole had died quite out, and not one stalk of wheat was to be found upon it, though the weeds inconsequence of the rich- ness of the soil at that time grew there with extreme luxuriance. Perhaps the proportion of calcareous matter did not. in this case amount to more than one thousandth part of the whole, vet the qualities of the soil were thereby total- ly altered, insomuch that though before the ap- l)l:calion of that dressing, the soil was incapable of producing wheat at all, it was found at all times after that period well adapted for the rais- ing of this crop. Nature has formed many soils with a similar proportion of calcareous matter, blended imperceptibly in them, over large dis- tricts of land.""* By this article it appears that small quantities of lime will proJuce a permanently beneficial effect, if a|)plied to land which is destitute of that kind of earth. A quantify equal to one thousandth part of the whole mould Within reach of the roots of the plants commonly cultivated would not be a dear dressing even in Massa- chusetts, where lime is not remarkably cheap nor very jilenty, yet that small quantity was found by Dr. Anderson, to be suflicient to eflect a permanent change in the constitution of a certain soil, and enable it to produce good wheat, although previous to its application it would not ripen a single stalk. Larger quantities, how- ever, would probably be beneficial. English farmers apjily from tiU to 4(.iU bushels of lime to an acre, as it measures when Iresh from the kiln. It may perhaps be asked, why new huids, or lands recently cleared from their native woods will at first jiroduce good crops of wheat, but alter having been cropped for a series of years, although made rich with manure, will lose the faculty of producing that vegetable ? To this j * Anderson's Recreations, Vol. 1. p. 16. '92 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. it may be answered that, pprliaps, the soil oria:i- nally contained small quantilics of lim?, which became cxhau'^teil by tillage, ami per]ia[)« the ashe?, which wore left on the land m liurning the timhcr. for clearinsr it, might t'urnish a sub- stitute tor lime, by yielding potash, a sub-tance in many respects analogous to the alkaline earths. I do not, however, mean to assert positively that MassachiFsetts can be made a wheat coun- try merely by the use of lime as manure for wheat. Perhaps rust, or mildew, (for which by the way it is believed salt is an eliicient re- medy,) may prevent its being cultivated to ad- vantage. It is possible likewise tliat the Hessian fly may destroy it, though, 1 am told that there are remedies a;.rainst the ravages of that insect. and that some kinds of wheat are not liable to be iniurcd by it. Rut I am very confident that wheal cannot be raised to advantage on most ol " the old lands of New England ■without the appli- cation of lime to the soil. \Vhether it can be profitably raised ii:il!i such application can only be ascertained by actual and repeated ex[)eri- mcnts. It is not in wheat crops alone that lime is founil eminently useful. It is observed b} Sir .lohn .'Sinclair that " By lime spread upon a moorv "ud, <^ood herbajo is produced where no- thibe; but heath and unpalatable grasses were before. By the same means grass-land, instead of yielding nothing but bent, and other inferior gra.sses, have been covered with those of a moi'e valuable description. The utility of lima to tuniips is so great, that though in the same field where no lime had been ai>plied the crop died away ; yet in the limed part, the turni|)s flourish- ed with unabated vigour. The same writer mentions lands, in which manure previous to liming had no sensible effect ; but after liming operated as on other lands. A very great advantage in the use of lime consists in its tendency to pulverize, and make mellow strong clayey lands. That quality alone, by the saving of labour, and the more perfect division of the particles of the soil renders lime of very great value for hard lands. Quicklime, in powder, and probably lime water, applied by an apparatus similar to that made use of lor watering dry and dusty streets woubl, undoubt- edly he an elTectual aiilidote against worms and other insects, which of late years appear to gain gronnd upon us in New England. And even when perfectly slack and efTete, if laid about the roots of the apple trees it is said to preserve them against the canker worm. Lime should be laid on the surface and intimately mixed w itli the soil, ior this purpose it is best slacked, and brought to a very fine dust, and the land should be made very mellow. It sliould be hot from the kiln when it is wished to dissolve peaty or woody substances. But in most other cases it is not material whether it is used as quick lime, air slacked, or pounded lime stone. Quick lime should not be applied to growing plants, as it will cause iliem to turn yellow, and if dissojved in water will kill grass if poured upon it. But quick lime applied to the naked ground soon becomes mild, and of course will not injure seeds sown some little time alter its application, nor the young plants which such seeds may produce.* Too much lime is, in all cases, per- * The application of lime is matter neither of myste- ry nor of deep philosopliical research. If the necessary nicious, and any quantity, great or small, is use- less in exhausted land, unless it is accompanied or succeeded by other substances which will furnish food for vegetation. If lime be so eminently useful and even in- disi)onsable in certain soils, and for the produc- tion of some of our most valuable cro|)s, and more especially if its want ainne prevents New England from being a wheat country, its value I believe has not. generally, been properly ap- preciated by New England Farmers. No .Ame- rican writer on agriculture, so far as I can learn, considers lime as a necessary constituent of every productive soil. It is mentioned as useful, but not as absolutely necessary for the production of any particular kinds of vegetables. And they do not appear to have known or re- flected that •■ all soils are improved by mild lime, and ultimately by quick lime, which do not eflervescc with acids ;""* that is. that have not lime already as one of their constituent parts. What 1 have said of lime, will, in most in- stances, apply to sea sand, shells, either of fresh or salt water origin, or marl ; likewise in a de- gree to leached ashes, or any other substance, composed in part of calcareous matter. All these ha\e more or less the properties of mild lime, and therefore may well be made its sub- stitute. But I fear that my respected audience are, by this time, convinced that quick lime is a drti subject ; and tliough I hope its di.scussion may prove profitable to many, yet as there can be no particular pleasure in handling it, I will no longer detain my hearers from the avocations of the daj', and the amusements of the Farmers' Festival and the Mamifacturers' Holidaj'. quantily be given to land, and properly mixed with the -soil, it is a things of much loss moment than we are apt to imHg:ine wlicther it be applied in its canstic or mild state, and for this reason that there is a natural pro- gression from one to the other, and in the end it is sure to be saturated with its full measure of carbonic acid. Letters of ^igrkula. * Sir Humphrey Davy's Agricultural Chemi^fiy- ©AtiTiiii wmmwB^ We should be glad to give parlicular, minute and ollicial accounts of the " Husbandman's Holidays," throughout the United States, if our limits would per- mit. But, to publish them at length, as they arc given in the newspapers of the district in which they have taken place, would be to devote the whole of our pa- per for several weeks to details which are already in possession of many of our readers. We shall, there- fore, give an abridged notice of each exhibition of wliich an account has reached as, and should we omit any thing of much importance, either as alfording pre- cepts or examples to our agricultural readers, we should be happy, hereafter, to give such supplementary notices as any of our correspondents may suggest asi expedient. CHESHIRE, {\. H.) CATTLE SHOW. At Acworth, on the 2d day of O^obcr inst. in pursuance of previous notice, was held the annual meeting of the Cheshire Agricultural So- ciety, and tinder its superintendence, the annual Exhibition of Stock and Domestic Manufactures, for the County of Cheshire. — The day was fa- vorable. The occasion called together a nu- merous collection of the substuutial citizens of 'he County. At an early hour the '^tock enter- ed lor premiums was arranged in the pons, and the .Manufactures deposited in a room provided for their reception. The Society convened at 9. — The examin- ing committees attended to their duties from 10 to 12. The drawing match under the- direc- ion of the committee for awarding premiums on working oxen, was attended at eleven. The dis|ilay of the poiver of the ox which this trial of strength elicited was witnessed with much sat- isfaction. The pairs to which the first and sec- ond premiums were awarded, their age and size considered, were decidedly superior to any on the ground. At 12 o'clock a procession was formed at the house of Mr. Keyes which under the direction of the marshals of the day, Mr. Warner and Mr. Gove, moved to the meeting-house. The servi- ces were commenced by a prayer from the Rev Mr. Cooke. An instructive and highly interest- ing Address ad.tpted to the occasion, was deliv- ered by the Hon. S. Hale. This address will probably be given to the public ; an analj'sis of it will not therefore be attempted. The pro- minent subjects were the prejudices, existing against Agricultural Societies — a refutation of the objections w hich have been urged — remarks upon the policy of draining lands — upon the mode of increasing and applying manures, &c. — The reports of the committees on manufactures and on working oxen were then read by H. Hub- bard, Esq, and the remaining reports of the com- mittees at the house of .Air. Keyes, alter the re- turn of the procession. The services of the day were very pleasantly concluded by a liberal and well provided dinner. The following reports were received from the Awarding Committees. On Working Oxen. The committee consisting of Col. David Par- ker of Charlestown, Chairman, Samuel Russell, ofSwanzey and BIr. Joel Goss, of Claremount, awarded — To Ijemucl Towne of Stoddard for the best pair of working oxen, the first premium on oxen be- tween 4 and 8 years old (TG To Bemzla Cram of L'nity for the 2d do. the 2d pre- juiiim, A To Samuel Clark of Acworth, for the next best do. 2 The committee noticed a number of other pairs presented as being very fine cattle, partic- ularly a pair exhibited by John Kobbins of .\ls- tead, which were brought on to the ground too late to be entered. They expressed their be- lief, that but for this omission Mr. Bobbins would have been entitled to one of the premiums of- fered by the Society, and recommended that he receive a premium of one dollar out of the fund reserved to be approi)riated at the discretion of the Executive committee. The recommenda- tion was complied with. On Steers and Heij'crs. The Committee consisting of Isaac Hubbard of Claremont, Chairman, Aaron Hodskins, Esq. of Walpole, and Mr. Thos. Whipple of Charles- town, adjudged — To Royal ilounceval, of Unity, for the best pair of steers the Ist premium on steers 4 To James Dickey of Acworth, for the next best do. the 2d preminm 2 To Samuel Tutherly of Unity for the best heifer, the first premium on heifers 4 To Aaron Dean, of Charlestown, for the next best do. the 2d premium 2 In addition to those above to which premiums NEW ENGLAND FARMER, 93 vere awarded, the committee luvorably noticed ; line pa.rs of three year old, and 2 pairs of one ear old steers, presented by Mr. Frederic itebbins of Acworth, and also several yoke of teers presented by Nathaniel Grout of Acworth, mil Mr. Stephen Gliddon of Unity — also a line ii •c ir old heifer by Mr. Charles Bovvcn of Jharlestown, and 2 two years old, and a year- iug heifer, by Mr. Aarou Dean of Charlestown. Oit Bulb and Coxus. The Committee consisting: of Mr. Roswell Hunt of Charlestown, Chairman, Phillip Sweet- icv. Esq. of Marlborough and Sila* Angier, Esq. ol Keeiie, report — I'liat Aaron Hodsldns of M'a'pole for the best bull, wei»hin» 1211 lbs. at 20 months, is entitled to the first pvemium on bulls 8 That James Bingflwrn of Lempster for the 2d best lo. is entitled to the 2d premium 6 That Timothy lloUlen of Charlestown is entitled to the 3d premium for the nest best do. 4 This committee observed that a bull present- ed by Mr. Malthcwson of Acworth, and one by Daniel Breed of Unity — several young bulls less than a year old, from (he stock of the bull own- ed by Samuel Tutherly of Unity, to which a ])remium was awarded at a previous exhibition, and trom Mr. Walker's bull of Charlestown, merited the particular notice of the society, as being very superior animals, and as indicating an increased attention among our farmers to the improvement of their stock. They awarded no premiums on Cows — none having been enter- ed, in their opinion, deserving. On Sheep and S-^'ine. The Committee consisting of Stephen John- son, Esq. of W'alpole, Chairman, Mr. William Jennison, of \\'alpole and , reported — To Uzzel Hurd of Lempster, the first premium on lioars 4 To Uutus Brio;ham of Acworth for the two best pi»9 3 Tc .\dara Wallace for the next best 2 To .Samuel Findlay of Acworth, the premium for tile best Merino buck 3 To Jcsiah \\ hite of CharlestoT\Ti, for the 4 best Merino ewes 3 0(1 Domestic lVoolle7i Manufactures. The committee consisting of Th. C. Drew, Esq. Chairman, and Martin Butterficld of Wal- pole, and James Bingham, Esq. of Lempster, report — To Mrs. Sally Uhite of Charlesto^ra the first pre- mium on fulled cloth 6 To Samuel I'indlay of Acworth, for the beot piece of flannel the first premium 4 To Abner Chase of Lempster for the next best do. 2 To Samuel Slade of Acworth, for the best pair of woolen blankets 3 To Thomas Whipple of Charlestown, for the best woolen coverlet 2 To Samuel Findlay of Acworth for the best piece of kerseymere 5 The committee recommended a premium of fifty cents to Larissa Miner, of Lempster, for an excellent pair of woollen hose, and remarked that the)' would gladly have assigned a premium to Dudley Lewis, of Marlow, for a pair of cot- ton and woollen coverlets, had any have been offered by the Society upon that article of Man- ufacture. On Cotton and Linen Manufactures, and Straw Bonnets. Mr.A'ryling Lovell of Charlestown, Chairman, James H. Bingham, Esq. of Alstead, and Blr. George H. Ingersoll of Charlestown, the com- mittee, adjudged — To Miss i'e^^y Mc Clure of Acworth, the first pre- mium on Linen 3 To Martha Duncan of .\c worth the 2d do, 2 To .lane Rob of .\cwoith, for the best piece of lin- en diaper, the 1st premium 3 To Lydia Thayer of Acworth, for the next best do. the 2d premium 2 To Selina Parker of FitzwiUiam, for the best grass bonnet, the 1st premium 2 To Nancy Fletcher of Alstead, for the next best do. 1 To Hetsey Kuggles of \\'aIpole, for the 6 best straw bonnets 3 This committee remarked that Miss Peggy Mc'Clure would ha\e been entitled to the 2d premium on linen had the piece she presented contained a sufficient num^le^ of yards. Tiiai various specimens of Imcii ihread were present- ed which were very creditable to the manufac- turers, particularly a bunch by Miss Peggy Mc Clure, and a bunch by Mrs. Slader. A lew articles besides those noticed above, for which no premiums had been oilered, were presented for examination. Among these were an improved plough by Mr. David Farnsworth, of Washington, — and an improved shearing machine by Mr. Parks, of Acworth. — The exe- cutive committee esteemed the improvements valuable and recommended them to the notice of the public. As a whole the exhibition was gratifying to the friends of the institution and creditable to the County. The anticipations of all, so far as they related to the numbers assembled, to the variet)' and quality of the Stock and Manufac- tures exhibited, may with truth be said to have been more than answered. The zeal and inter- est with which all engaged in the business of the da)^ — the very considerable number of fine animals presented — the obvious improvement in the young stock — the taste and ingenuity display- ed ia the Domestic Manufactures, all combined to evince that the Society has exerted a highly beneticial intiucnce upon the agricultural inter- ests of the Count)'. If with the limited patronage it has thus far received it has been productive of so much ben- efit, how much greater may be expected to be derived from it when patronized lo the extent which the intelligence, population and resources of the County would w arrant. For the next anniversary the funds of the Society, it is expected, will justify the offer in premiums of a much larger amount, embracing a greater variety of objects, than was ofiered for the past. If so it is hoped that a correspond- ing competition will lie excited and that the result will be honorable to the Countv of Ches- hire. THOMAS M. EDWARDS, Jbr the publishing Committee. BERKSHIRE CATTLE SHOW. The 12th anniversary of the Berkshire Agri- cultural Society was holden on the 2d and 3d inst. The first day was occupied in the exhi- bition of Cattle, Sheep, Horses, Swine, Domes- tic Manufactures, Agricultural Implements, and in organizing the Committees for awarding premiums. On the second day the exhibition of the Ploughing Match took place in the morning. This ivas succeeded by sacred and literary ex- ercises— a prayer by the Rev. Mr. Humphrey, and " an appropriate, useful and able Address, by Maj. Mc'Kay," which is expected soon to appear in print. The declaration of premiums >vas announced by the first Vice President, Hon. H. W. Dwight, '• preceded by some suitable and elegant com- ments." The Society sat down to an excellent dinner at Capt. Cam])beirs. " The weather was fine, and it is worthy of remark, that in this particular Providence has smiled on this ■ocicty at every anniversary since its formation." ■'• The quantity of domestic manufactures was much increased, and the quality much improved, and such as justly distinguished the Ladies of Berkshire for their ingenuity and industry." The number of animals was not so large, but in quality they were superior to those which have been exhibited at former anniversaries. " The nuitiber and excellence of the Merino Sheep were worthy of particular comment — in which it is believed the Coimty of Berkshire is not exceeded by any other county in the U. States." The following is extracted from the Report of the Committee appointed to award premiums upon Live Animals. " Twelve years only have elapsed since the first exhibition of animals was made in Berk- shire, under the name of a Cattle Show ; since ihat time, it is plain and obvious that our breed of cattle has been much improved ; and the young stock exhibited at this time is much su- perior to the old. " It is a fact well attested, that not more than forty years since, the animals raised in Great Britain were much inferior to those now raised in this country, and that for a century previous, very little improvement had been madg in their beauty and size. About that t;me associations were formed by the most wealthy and respect- able farmers. Cattle Shows were held, and pre- miums given for the best animals offered. The effect produced is obvious to any one, who has examined the Cattle imported from that country. As evidence of the truih of this, we refer you to the two beautiful Heifers of the Devon- shire breed, exhibited by our first Vice-Presi- dent ; and although purchased at what may, by some, be considered a high price, still we pre- sume the speculation may be a profitable one to the enterprising owner. It is extremely desira- ble that the most wealthy and opulent farmers in Berkshire may duly appreciate the advantages Ihat may accrue, not only to themselyes, but to the whole community, from similar exertions. It is within the recollection of many gentlemen in this vicinity, that great improvement was made in our breed of cattle by the introduction of the Cos, or short horned breed. The Sack- et breed, so called, which originated from this stock, are to be prefered to any of the original stock of the country. Although purchasing im- ported cattle may be the most expeditious way to improve our stock, still we do not believe it to be the cheapest way, for we believe the na- tive stock of our countrj' may be made superior to those we now import. This, however, must be a work of time to effect. Is it not for the interest of every farmer to begin this work ? The small farmer can aid in it as well as the large one. Keep no more stock than you can keep well. Select your best Cows to breed from. Take the same pains with respect to the breed on the other side. If you have more calves than you choose to raise, do not kill the largest and best of them, as is generally the practice, because they will bring a t'ew cents more than the others. Nurse your calves care- 94 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. fully durinsf tlio firsl years orpowth. Unless you lav the fijuiidation for efooil rattle tlurinir f'lal time, yon will never obtain tlic object wished for." — Abridged from the PiltuJiclJ Smt. The Plymouth County Jlgricullvral Soclity Held their annual exhiliition at South lli-nljje- Mater, ou the Oth inst. An Address was deliv- ered by Dr. Hector Orr. " Dr. Orr rot'erred to the cirrum^tances in the history of the Old Colony, which had been unfavorable to the due improvement of its agriculture — adverted to some erroneous opinions, and existing defects in their husbandry — and characterized the loose and indolent habits, that originated in most cases the propensity to emigration, by strokes of skil- ful and well merited sarcasm."' " The exhibition of stock was superior to the last year. The i?uils, particularly that which obtained the premium, and one belonging to Gen. Washburn, furnished an assurance of still I'arther improvement. The Manufactures, though lim- ited in (|uaiility and variety, would not in their cpiality dishonor any exhibition in the state. The ladies Llonnet*, made of rye straw, the thread and worsted Hose and the braid hearth rug were noticed and admired. The Cloths from the several Factories were spoken of in terms of commendation. The Ploughing JIatch was engaged in with a zeal and emulation, that proved the Agricultural community had receiv- ed a stimulus from the exertions of the society." Abridged from the Old Col. Memorial. dress by the Hon. Timothy Pitkin, President of the Society, on the objects of the institution. The Society has a Viewing Comm.ttoc, who award premiums for the best cultivated farms. This committee gave favorable reports of tlie farms of Mr. Lemuel Roberts, in Windsor ; Mr. h'redcric Oakes, in \V. Hartford ; Daniel Wads- worlh, Esq. and a Mr. Raphael, of Hartford. The premium for the best cultivated farm, be- ing a silver cup, to the value of ^10, was award- ed to Daniel Wadsworth, Esq. and that of the second best, being a silver cup to the value of g2(J, to Mr. Freder.c Oakes, both of Hartford. The Hartford County Agricultural Socii ly Held their fifth anniversary at the City of Hart- ford, on the 9th and 10th of Oct. The exhibi- tion was superior to any which preceded it. The Bulls, Cows and Working Oxen are spoken of in terms of high commendation in the Con- necticut Courant. Twenty-eight premiums were awarded. With regard to Domestic Manufac- tures, the Courant observes, " Here was a dis- play, which, when compared with that of last year, was flattering to the prospects of the So- ciety. The articles offered for premiums wci'c greater in number, and by far superior in qua- lity, to those offered the last year." Among the specimens are mentioned "• several pieces of blue x^ooUeii clotli, which, though spun, wove and dyed in families, were scarcely inferior to the best factory goods. Mixed cloth, fine flan- nels, carpeting, stockings, hearth rugs, linen diapers and woollen blankets of tine quality were also exhibited." Twenty-four premiums were awarded by the Committee of Manufactures. There was ex- hibited a hat made ol' mole skin, in imitation of Chi/ichilli, which indicated much ingenuity. Also, two cassimere shawls, which were con- fiidered worthy of particular notice, as being the first of the kind offered. These three arti- cles were presented by Miss Susan H. Ilubbarti, of Windsor, and for which the Society awarded her an extra premium. A Stand and Card Ta- ble by Mr. Daniel Dewey ; a Sofa by Messrs. Foster &i Shepherd; beautiful ladies' Combs by Mr. Levi S. Platt ; a fruit piece, jiainted by Mr. Laughfon ; a Threshing Machine, invented by Mr. JamcsGregg. of New Hampshire, arc like- wise mentioned in favorable terms. The public exercises were, a Prayer by the Uev Dr Flint, aud an able and instructive Ad- TO TnF. EDITOR OF THE >EW ENGLAND FARMER. Sir — Being of j'our opinion " that it is the duty of every man possessing any information tending to advance the agricultural interests of his country, to lay such (however inelegantly communicated,) before his fellow citizens," 1 deem it not amiss to send you my opinion, (founded on some experience,) respecting the time most suitable for cutting English Grain, which in New England, as far as my knowledge extends, is permitted to stand in the field two or three weeks later than good husbandry de- mands. European writers, I believe, are unanimous in the opinion, that when the milky substance has passed from that state mio fiour, the sooner the grain is cut the better, as all after this, il permitted to stand, is taking value from the straw, and adding to the berry or kernel, what ? a thick, dark and bitter skin ! thereby render- ing the bread made from such grain dark, clammy, and unsavory to the taste, if not un- healthy to the stomach. From an experience of several years in cut- ting my grain as above recommended, 1 consid- er its value to have been enhanced one quarter part, as the grain is not only more zi'hite and szi-cei, but the straw is likewise of double the value for fodder of that cut late, when the grain is dead ripe. 1 can with confidence assure my friends of the plough, that if they will cut their grain early, (viz. when the kernel is tough and spongy, and feels like India rubber) they will sustain no loss from shrinkage, as grain after it has arrived at this state, can receive no more nourishment from mother-earth ; that the ex- cellence of the straw will doubly compensate them for the trouble of haying it after it is cut; that instead of dark bitter rye, they may have that, which in point of color and sweetness, may vie with the late cut wheat. Plaister of Paris. — Three year? since I used one ton of Plaister of Paris, one barrel of which was sown on mowing on the top of a heavy swell of land, which to appearance had little or no effect, till the present summer, when the land was broken up, and the sward, in true Brighton style, turned bottom up, for a crop of l^iiglish turnips. The weather which followed the sowing was unfavorable for this vcgrfabie, but to my .surprise 1 discovered that, where the plaister had been sown, three years before, the lurnij) plants were vigorous and thrifty ; each side of which the drought had destroyed them almost to a plant ! At this time, (Oct. 1st) the turnips on the fa-corcd spot are the size of a cod'ee cu|) ! Now, Mr. Editor, this same Plaister of Paris, (or capricous Gypsum, or whatever otiier term It may have) has caused the gentlemen of the plough handles more puzzle as it respects it act.ng as an auxiliary to forward vegetation than almost all the rest of our unaccountable put together. A friend of mine. Dr. W***"^ having purchased a large plantation on the Huil son river, N. \. had, he informed me, made u= of many tons of this article, to very great ail vantage, and is of the opinion, that it acts mor by fermentation within the earth, (thereby pre paring food proper for plants in a greater de gree) than by its agency in attracting nitre o an}' other property contained in the atmosphcri My turnips give evidence to such an opinion. The above remarks on Gypsum are not madi so much with a view of their enlightening an' one, as of eliciting observations from more ex perienced heads and abler pens. With the ajio ' logy, that many who can hold a plough to ad miration, make but a bungling job in wieldin: the pen, 1 shall subscribe myself your humb!. servant, A YOUNG FARMER. Of the heart of .Massachusetlc. Oct. 1, 1822. I From the London Fanners' Journal. RECEIPT FOR MAKING GREIN GRAPE WINE. Lezi'isham A'ursery, Oct. 7, 1821. Sir — Having for a number of years been ver fortunate in making British Wines, 1 hcrewill send you a recei])t for making Green Grapi Wines, which is particularly applicable this lat> season, as there are many farmers, and others ii the country, who have large quantities of grape that will not ripen, and ivhich they w ill find, \r making use of them in this way, will turn to ; very good account. Care must be taken to havi the casks, bottles. &c. very sweet and clean, ani 1 ha\e no hesitation in pronouncing this thi finest British wine that can be made. I am, Sir, your obedient servant. JOHN WILLMOTT. To mal:c Champagne from Grapes equal to foreign Gather the Grapes when they are just turning or about half ripe ; pound them in a tub, and ti every quart of berries so pounded, put twi (|uarts of water : let it stand in a mash tub, fb; 1 f days when it is to be drawn off; and to everj gallon of liquor put three pounds of lump sugar when dissolved, cask it, and after working, bun< it down. In about six months it will be fit ti drink, when it should be bottled and tied down or wired, if it is intended to be kept more thai one year. An awful instance of sudden death occurred f few days since near Worthing. A gentleman oi the name of Home, having occasion to paint his house, incautiously remained in it, contrary to the advice of his friends, during the time the men were employed. On the fourth day ho was seized with vomitings, and complained of a gid- diness in the head. A physician was immediate- ly sent for, but before he could arrive, the unfor- tunate man was senseless. Every means which medical skill could devise were tried lor his re- covery, but without effect. He has lef't a wile and two children to lament Lis untimely death. Ibid. ' Important! — His Majesty, says an Edinburgh paper, landed at Leith, on a large piece of ma- hogany, which is intended to be cut up, an«|l made info snuff boxes ! NEW ENGLAND FARiMER. 95 WAlk BOSTOy.—SATURIJ.'lY, OCT. 10, IKi!'-'. We have omitttd giving, iu the present paper, any further notice of the Brighton Cattle Show, becausf we supposed it raijht be more acceptaljle to mnny of our readers to include the official ri/ioi Is ufalllhv lii'.- ferent Committees in the same niimhi r. We could not o-irt them entire in the present number, and therefore have deferred their commencement to our next, ivlueh will include the whole. Ji]isla!:e Corrected. — In our last paper it was stated, (p. KB, col. ], near the bottom) that " Jlr. S. Jaques, of Leicester, received a premium of $50, for a breed of long woolcd sheep, 6 ewes and 1 lamb." It should have been Samuel Jaques, Esq. of Charlestown, who was the owner of the animals. Tlie mistake was copi- ed from the Daily Advertistr. FOPxElGN. London paper? to the 14lh Sept. have been received at New York. Mr. Canning has been appointed Min- ister of Foreign Affairs. The state of Spain lias become more tranquil, and the new ministry is said to be pop- ular. The Greeks are gaining ground of the Turks. One L)f the Turkish I'achas was defeated on the 20th July. The account adds, that threatened by the Divan, he assembled all his reserves, and led them to the theatre 5f his defeat ; but the Greeks again inlc_rcepted him, ind on the first of August he lost as many lives as on ;he iUth of July, and was himself taken prisoner. DOMESTIC. Gale of JVind. — The papers are replete with ac- :ounts of a severe gale experienced in the Southern •tales on the '27th and 28th ult. At Danville and jynchburgli, in N'irginia, it commenced about half past i o'clock in the morning of the 'JJJth. It was very se- 'erelyfelt in the destruction of buildings, orchards, k.c. Fifteen houses on Sullivan's Island, near Charleston, vere blown down. Upwards of one hundred dwelling lO-.is.s in the city of Charleston have been unroofed, nd about one thousand have been rendered pervious 0 the rain, by the loss of tiles or slating. Among th- lUblic builJiugs the City Hall has been considerably tijured. Not t)ne place of public worship escaped, "he theatre was unslated and otherwise injured. — ibout 35 persons lost their lives in Charleston and on 'ullivan's Island. At Georgetown, S. C. we are informed the gale was till more severe than at Charleston. The house of )r. Meyers was swept off by the flood, and his whol ousehold, fit'teen in number, including his wife, three aughters and a son, were drowned. The dwellin^ ouse of Mr. R. F. Witirers, a large new building, and very out building were also destroyed, and fourteen ut of eighteen persons lost their lives. Fifty lives rerc lost at or near Georgetown, The Cattle Sliow and Fair of the Hampshire, Fran- lin and Hampden Agricultural. Socidy will be holden t Northampton on Wednesday and Thursday of next reek. .Address by Joh.v Mills, Esq. of Southwick. 'here will be a Concert of Sacred Music in the even- ig of the first day. The imitation Leghorn Bonnet manufactured in Ver- lont, and which was consiilered superior to any pre- iously made in this country, was sold at Brighton, on lie second day of the Show, for eighty dollars. Two winter squashes were raised in the garden of Jeorge Olney. Psq. this season, of the following dimtn- ons and weight : — First squash, length 39 inches : reatest circumference 34 l-'2 ; smallest do. 27 ; lengl!. f neck 2!1 ; average circumference of neck 29; weight 1 1-4 pounds. — Second squash, greatest circumferenci 1 1-2 inches ; smallest do. 21 ; length 37 ; length n' eck 26 ; average size of neck 26 ; weight 53 1-4 lbs. A encumber was also raised in the same garden, 1" |ich"s long, and 10 in-'hes in circumference at the irgest part. — Providence Gasetlt. Munufiiclprji of IVatlhain. — 'i lie deficiency of rain] during the present season has caused great injury to the profits of a larg'- manufacturing establishment in this vicinity. The fValtham Factor:/, which employs 1 e- tweeu 7 and itOOO spindles, has been deprived of more than hatj' its water power by th(- drought ; and this cir- cumstance lia;^ matirially dimi^Ii^hed tlie dividend of the Stockholders. On 'i ucsday last, the se)iii-aiaiuul dividend was paid, amounting only to 12 1-2 per cent. ; whilst, last season, the profits were 30 per cent, per annum. Imitations of the Waltham Cotton have been sent from }■ ugjand to (liis country, lor sale ; bat the Knglish manufacturer cannot make an equal fabrick at the same price. The imitation is thickened with Hour, to giie it the appearance of firmness. Worcester Canal. — The surveys for the projected Ca- nal, from A\"orcester to this place, have at last been com- pleted in a manner very satisfactory to the Committee. The descent from Worcester to this place is, as we late- ly stated, a few feet more tliau 450. The ground was bored every twelve rods, the wiiole distance. On the route selected, no rock was found, within the depth for excavation, excepting at three places, where it rose aliove the surface. The gentleman employed as En- gineer, in this survey, whose experience and judgment may be fully relied on, estimates the expense of the whole work, including sixty locks, at 5.123,000. He thinks, that locks of six and eight feet each are prefer- able to those of higher lift, as they may be constructed at a smaller proportionable expense. These facts enable us to repeat, v/ith much confi- dence, the opinion which we gave, some time ago, that the stock of the Canal will be more profitable than that of any description of publick debt, bank stock, or even manufacturing establishments. — Frov. Journal. The beautiful river which runs through Ipswich, and which is never dried up by the severest droughts, is destined soon, we understand, to become the busy seat of manufactures, a monied association from the cap- ital having purchased a right upon the stream for that purpose. Ipswich has long been spoken of as a future manufacturing place. — Salem Gas. United Slates Law Journal .^ll was mentioned in the Statesman, a few evenings since, that the second num- ber of this work had made its appearance. We have since had an opportunity of perusing its contents, and do not hesitate to pronounce it a highly interesting and valuable publication. In the compass of 300 compact octavo pages, is presented a body of information on le- gal subjects, and great national questions connected with our Judicial institutions, which cannot be conven- iently derived from other sources, and which cannot fail to commend the work to a numerous class of read- ers, particularly to gentlemen of the bar, legislators and jurists. The second number is in all respects supe- rior to the first ; and if the independence and spirit, the talent and taste, evinced at the outset, shall continue, the Law Journal must soon assume the character of a standard work, and reflect credit upon the jurispru- dence of our country. — A'. Y. Stalcsviart. Sickness in Pennsylvania. — Letters from Philadel- phia give a deplorable picture of the ravages which have been committed this season, in the vicinity of that city, by bilious and intennittent fevers. One physician at Moorstown, N. J. nine miles from Philadelphia, is slated to have 120 patients now under his charge ; and in many families, on the banks of the Delaware and Schuylkill, not a sufficient number of healthy per- sons remain to attend the sick. The Democratic Press notices six deaths in Montgomery township, and re- marks, that it seldom happens in a township of less than a thousand, so many die within a few days of each other ; and it is still less seldom, that six old neighbors hould die, whose united ages should amount to 455. A'. }'. .Spectator. M. Durad, manager of the repository of inventions at '*aris, has invented an instrument of a novel and ele- gant description, which h-' calls cuille-main. and with •■•hicli rosi s and fruit may !'•■ gathered from thorny trees without any injury to the hand ; it is like a pistol. London paper. Minis nfJ\l'orlli Cuiulina. — We continue lo hear of the discovery which has lately been made, of gold and silver mines in Lincoln County, (N. C.) Some incred- ulous persons seem to have attempt* d to turn the mat- ter into ridicule; but the actual exhibition of the pre- cious metal itself, lias silence d them ; and it is now ac- knowlidg'd that a bar of silver, and a lump of gold, as large as a man's thumb, have beoi extracted from part of the ore, which is found in abundance on four or five plantations. .A ridge, more than a quarter of a mile in length, is supposed to be full of this valuable substance. A', y. Spectator. DIED — -At Slough, near Windsor, in England, Aug. 25tli, Sir M iLMA.->i Hf.rschf.ll, aged 86, one of the most celebrated Astronomers of the age. In Bangor, Me. Hon. Lothbop Lkwis, aged 58 — one oi the most eminent Geographers and Mathemati- cians of New England. At his death he was one of the Commissioners of Maine for dividing the Massachusetts anel Maine' Public Lands. U. S. L.WV JOURNAL, No. 2. EDITEH BY SEVEBAI. MKMBERS OF THE BAR. rj^HE 2d No. of the " Law Journal and drilian'.? M- Magazine,'''' is just published by GRAY & HEWIT, New Haven, WM. A. COLL.MAN, New Yolk. ABRAHAM S.MALL, Philadelphia, E. J. CO ALE & Co. Baltimore, S. BARCOCK & Co. Charleston, S. C. MUNROE & FRANCIS, Boston, HENRY WHIPPLE, Salem, Mass, • G. & R. WEBSTER, Albany, W.M. NORMAN, Hudson, and for sale by the several Agents in the different Slates; COA'TEA'TS. .\eimiralty Law — Mariners' W ages. Rand k als. rs. Ship Hercules, Williams vs. Brigantine Juno, tc. Decision of Judge Livingston in the ease of the U. States vs. Jacob Barker. Examination of Cases argued and determined in the Supreme Court of Judicature of the State of N. York^ in the terms of May, August and October, 1821, and January, 1822. Remarks on the Resolution of Mr. Stevenson, of Vir- ginia, for the repeal of the 25th section of the Judicia- ry Act of the United States. Pieview of the case of the Jeune Eugenie, determined in the Circuit Court of the United States, held at Bos- ton, December, 1821. Penal Jurisprudence— Review of a Report made te> the General .Assembly of the State of Louisiana, on the? plan of a Penal Code for said State ; by Edward Liv- ingston. Commission to take Foreign Testimony. Law of Corporations — Opinion of Chancellor Kent and of Juilge Spencer, in the case of the North Rivtr Bank. Law of Corporations — Remarks on the case of the Corporation, styled, " The Trustees of the Roman Catholic Society worshipping at the Church of St. Ma- ry, in the city of Philadelphia ;" by Richard H. Bayard. d:^ A Digest of all the late British and American Reports, which are not included in the present British or American Digests, is preparing for the third Number of this work. (t^ The 2d No. completes 300 pages, or half the first volume. Subscribers are respectfully reminded, I hat the terms of the work are $5 the volume, payable on the receipt of the 2d No. of each ; or $6, if paid at the close of each volume. October 7, 1822. THE FARMER'S ALMANACK. RICHARDSON & LORD, 75 Cornhill. have This Dav published, the old fashioned, genuine FAR- MER'S AL.MANACK, for the year of our Lord, 1823, by Robert B. Thomas, Esq. (^ij" Bo«ksellers and Traders, supplied by the quan- tity, as usual. October 7. WANTED IMMEDIATELY, AN active, intelligent Boy, 15 or 16 years of age, as an Apprentice to the Frinting business. Inquire at the Farmer OlBcc. Oct. 19. 96 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. From the Columbiaa Centinel. IIi'SBAyDM^.\'S HOLIDA Y. A^ain, on the vi'm^ of old time, has come round, The husband nmn^s holiday — cloudless and bright ; Our spirits still buoyant, and bosoms still sound, With smiles let us welcome its pathway of li^lit ; Then liail I to our jubilee, glory and pride, When we by by the Plough — cast the tickle a.'ide, iew England. V\ e hope w have as many thinking aud reading farmers in the Six New fhigland States, not only as any other poriion ( this country, but as any equal portion of the cultivated world can afl'c.rd or furnish. It seems to be absurd, that farmers should subscribe for papers devoted exclusively to questions in whic they have only a remote interest, and should dccUne. giving their aid to one entirely devoted to their instru. tiou, amMsement, and to the record of their improvements, doubts, queries, discoveries and speculations. Tl paper now commenced has every thing to recommend it .as far as we have had an oppoitunity to judge. M Shepard is well known as an editor of a valuaHle paper at Northampton. That he has all the profession skill, and the requisite liberality in the execution of his work, is manifest by the numbers already publishe They are neatly executed on good paper and with a fine tyjie, with great care and accuracy, far above, these respects, (we may say. without otfence, we hope.) any other like publication. His pn sent assislai Thomas G. FESSEKnEN, Esq. is a man of reading and talents, aud has paid great, and for our country. ; most unexampled attention to agricultural subjects. His mind is philosophical, and bis attention is und, tracted by other pursuits. His life has been principally devoted to such subjects. The numbers as yet j;;U| are respectable, as much so as could be expected, beiore the public at large had taken an interest in ti work. We hope that it will succeed, but^ that must wholly depend on the aid which the intelligent Divim Lawyers, Physicians, and practical Farmers in the country will afiord it. That aid must consist not only taking it and paying their subscriptions — that to be sure, is its veces.tart/ food, without which it must starve- but in favoring it by communicating their thoughts, experiments, objeclions to existing practices, or to n( projected improve'uents. It should be remembered, that this is a mere Newspaper, and therefore, that am: who would not wril*- a bonk in his own name, or an article for the Massachusetts Agricultural Repositor need have no scruple ui writing for this. ^ A.'VRON DEXTER, Presidcnl of,.V[assachuselts Jigrkullural Society. S. AV. POMEROV, \sl Vice President. THOMAS L. WINTHROP, -Id I'ice President. JOHN LOWELL, Correspond in'i Secretar;/. , RICHARD Sl'LLIVAN, Ricordins; Secretary. BENJAMIN GUILD, Assistant Recording Secretary. JOHN PRINCE, Treasurer J. WELLES, P. C. BROOKS, E. HERSEY DERBY, easurer. S. a. PERKINS, ) JOSIAH (JUINCY, \ i, GORHA.M PARSONS, ^ Trustees. TheJS'cw Engbnil Farmer is puliFislieil weekly, on Srtturday.s. Each No. contains 8 quar pages, printed ou a sheet of good (jtiality, nith an entire new type. The price is iiS2,50 p annum, in (nlvaitcc, or $3,00 at the close of the year. r - a Eacii volnm(> will comprise 52 nimihers, and the present volume commenced the first halurdij in August. A titlo-page, and a correct and copious index will he given at the end of each yef Persons who will |)rocure seven suhscrihers aud become resjionsihle for the payment, will entitled to a copy gratis, and in the same proportion for a larger nutnber. Congress-slrect, Boston, Oct. 1822. (yJj-Editnrs nf papers with 'jnhom wc exchange, by giving the abnyc an. insertion, will con/er\ favor ic-Ziic/t a-e shall be happy to reciprocate -ji'hcti an opportunity ojfcrs. NEW ENGLAND FARMER. Published every Saturday, by THO.MAJ^ W. SIFKl'ARD, Rogers' Buildiii";, Coiisrns-s Sir. . I. lioston ; at ? J.'.O i...r aim. in advaurr-, or $:i,(''tl aL the (lost nf ll\i yi av Vol. I. BOSTON, SATURDAY, OCTOBER 20, 1822. No. 13. CATTLE SHOWS, cVc. OFFICIAL REPORTS OF THE CATTLE SHOW AT BRIGHTON, Oct. 9Ui & 10th, 1322. No. L On all the larger Horned Cattle {except Heifers.) The Committee report that the aaimaU in this hranch of live stock, were unusually nu- merous and good, proving, that a gradual and regular improvement is steadily, snd as rapidly as could be expected, taking place. The num- ber of entries (or premiums, in this department alone, amounted to 42, and of individuals (many entries comprising more than one) to 52, while the whole number of premiums offered, and granted, are only 10, so that four fifths of the competitors were necessarily thrown out. — This Is inevitable, unless our funds should be exceedingly increased, or unless we should make our premiums smaller, and more numerous. This might be liable to great objection, by ex- tending rewards to animals of inferior merit, and thus dimmishing the motives to make the breeds as perfect as possible. While the beneficial ef- fects of the liberal premiums offered by the Society, for the importation of the most im- proved breeds of foreign countries, is every year evinced by the crowds which, Irom the be- ginning to the end of our shows, gather round the imported animals, and their improved pro- geny, we ought never to forget the sound ad- vice of the venerable farmer who addressed the Societ}' this year, " that the progress of improve- ment by foreign crosses must be very slow;" and possessing as we unquestionably do, the ma- terials among our own stock of improving our breeds by careful selection, we should follow the example of Bakewell and the other British farmers, who in fifty years have raised the stock of Great Bntam to a state of perfection little short of what it is supposed they can ever reach. And, who at the late show had the pleasure of viewing those fine animals, Denton and Ccelebs, could doubt whether they were superior to any animals of the same description now to be found in New-England? And why is this the case'! Assuredly our pastures are as fine, and the race has not degenerated with us. Wherever a pride is felt in raising fine stock, our success is perfect, and the single town of Sutton might send its team of 120 oxen and challenge Devonshire or any other county of Great Britain, to trials of strength or activity. Let us then, on this occasion, earnestly solicit our farmers to select and propagate only the best individuals of their horned cattle. If they reply, we feel no encouragement to do this be- cause we find the improved crosses always pre- ferred at your shows, we reply that though this is partially true, it is not entirely so, and what would the farmer have us do on such an occa- sion? If, in fact, the full blooded or half blooded descendant of imported slock is superior, shall we refuse to admit it so to be? This would be indeed sacrificing the best interests of our coun- try in relation to this object, as well as violating our solemn pledges, to gratify an improper na- tional prejudice. Our true course is to strive to equal or surpass the foreign races by select- ions and careful management of our native stock. If was upon this principle that our manufactures have been built up on the only solid foundation. Instead ol' complaining that foreign goods were preferred, our citizens have exerted tliemselves to make our own better as well as clicapcr ; and! let Manchester and Yorkshire beware, lest tliey 1 find themselves not only shut out from our inii-- kets, (not by prohibitions but by skill and industry) I but cventuallv rivalled in those of foreign coun- tries. These preliminary remarks are not only intended to allay, or dimmish any feeling of dis- content at our inijiartial preference of the best stock, from whatever country it may have been onsrinally derived, but to encourage our own farmers to take more eflicient measures for tiie amelioration and improvement of our own na- tive breeds. They cannot attend one of our shows, without perceiving the public preference for the new races, and tins is a strong confirma- tion of the justice of the decisions, though we are aware that if is not the least difficult task of the Committee to endeavor to decide without any bias from this clearly pronounced opinion of all the bystanders. We have said, that the imported stock and their progeny have usually been preferred by the visitors at our shows; — we would make one exception, and that is, with respect to milch cows. Although the milch cows of Great Britain and the lietherlands are in general far, infinitely, su- perior to our own, — yet during the six years in which 1 have had this unpleasant duty to per- Ibrm, I have never seen an imported cow ol equal merit (taking the positive evidence of qual- ities, the quantity and quality of milk into viewj with some of our own which have been offered. .So fully am I convinced of this truth, as well as that our country possesses a very considerable number of these fine cows, that I am persuaded, that, if Great Britain or the Netherlands were to send us ten cows each, of the best quality. New-England alone could furnish twenty, which would equal them in the quantities of milk, Inil- ter and cheese, which they would respectively produce. If this should be true, and I have nr doubt of it, we at least possess one of the parent' in perfection, from which an improved race might be procured. This opinion is not expres- sed lightly. We infer its truth fiom an examiii ation of the products of foreign cows, thougiit to be so extraordinary as to merit notice in theii ]ieriodical journals ; and during our short period of exhibitions, we have had several, which have equalled the best, of which any accounts have been published. But we would wish, that ii shoulil be distinctly understood, that we refer only to a small part of our milch cows, and that we fear much the greater number are lamsntr- bly poor. We are well convinced, that somt dairies in our country, with two good cows, pro. duce as much as the average of those which have five. If we are correct, or nearly so, in the opi- nion above expressed, how does it happen thai our breed of cattle on the whole is so inferior? Because the owner of a good cow, instead ol putting a proper value upon her, will generally send her to the nearest scrub bull, to save a little labor, and some trifiing difference of expense. This we all feel and know to be true. But tliis shameful negligence is giving place to more ju- dicious measur"i, owing principally to the effect of the public shows. If every owner of a good, and very superior cow, would consiiler her in a proper light, not merely as a valuable animal during her life, but as capable of improving hi.s whole stock — if he will spare no moderate ex- pense in procuring calves from her, from bulls of an improved breed, we shall soon see our whole stocic gradually improve. Bakewell and Princeps, among the most distinguished raisers of stock in Great Britain, lived to see their im- provements eminently successful. We are fully aware, that all this exhortaticii and argument is of very little importance, compared with the more substantial proofs derived from prices. — When, therefore, our farmers learn, that a call of six months, has been sold at the price of four ordinary cows, of l\\e years old, who have con- sumed twelve tons of h.ay, including pasturage, and have required great labor in attending on them ; when they hear such a fact as this, that an excellent judge offered fifty dollars for a two months calf, of the cow herein after mentioned, owned by the Hon. Mr. Gray, they produce, more conviction than any other soi't of address. Before we announce the premiums, we would express the thanks of the Trustees to those Gen- tlemen, who without claiming any reward, and purely with the view of giving aid to the show, exhibited fine animals at no small expense and trouble. It is probable that as the Committee look no minutes of these animals some of them may be overlooked. One we could not forget — the fine imported bull Denton, belonging to Ste- phen Williams, Esq. of Northborough. He has improved with age, and shows that he has an owner who is sensiide of his great value. Nor could any one overloi k Cadebs, owned by Major Jaques, of Charlestown. If there had not been my other animals on the ground, those who are loud of viewing fine natural productions, would i'eel that a visit to Brighton was well repaid bj' the sight and comparison of these animals, differing considerably to be sure, but each very remarka- le for beauty. There was also a fine imported cow, with her Calf, lately bought by the Hon. .Mr. Gray for jjS200. Such liberal prices will en- ■lure a constant and gradual improvement of our -lock. It is said that this cow is very reriiar- \able for the quantity and quality of her milk — >ve have heard that she had given in England 36 quarts per day, but there was no person to <^ive us any accurate account of her. Capt. Pracy, of the London Packet, added a new ;iroof, to the many he has already given, of his zeal for the promotion of the ."Agriculture of his . ountrv, by exhibiting three young horned ani- mals, just imported by him. Major Jaques also exhibited three fine cows, without asking a premium. After so long a trial of the patience of the Competitors, by these introductory remarks, many of which competitors will, however, be disappointed quite as early as they would wish — Tlie Committee awarded the premium : 08 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. For tb? b( St iat nx, 6 y. ars old, to Oliver Starr, ol' .Dferfidd, wcighin» 23J3 poumls $40 For the next beat do. 6 years old, to Lewis Bar- nard, of Worcester, weight 2256 30 For the next best do. 5 1-2 years old, to Amos Davis, of Groton, weight 1992 20 For the best bull, to .Major ;?. .laques, of Charlts- town — weight 1243 — 15 months old 30 For the next best do. to Joshua Coolidge, of Wa- tertown, bv Ciehbt — weight 735 — 7 months and 4 days old" 20 For the b; st bull calf, to Uriah Manning, of W o- biirn, b< ing the progi ny of C'alrhs 15 For the next best bull calf, the progeny of Den/on, to the Hon. Levi [.Incoln, of \N orci ster 0 For the best milch cow, to lohn Barr, of Salem 30 For the next best do. to Samuel Murden, of Mil- ton 20 For the next best do. to the Hon, John Welles, of Dorchester 15 As to milch roue, one of the most important, as well as most (lilVici)lt articles to decdo ii])on, the Committee proceeded, as they will proli.i- bly hereafter always proceed, solely on evidence as to the actual product. The clearer this evi- dence, the more certain the success. The good- ness of a ni:ieli cow depends on so many cir- cumstances, and all of them so important, that th" Committee are obiio^'ed to extend their in- quiries very far. Form and beauty is ol" some mfm.Hit, hut it is also sometimes fallncitius ; and no que ^vouM reject a lino cow, ivhirh should give an uncommon quantit}' of line niilk — butter superior in (|uantity and quality — continue to give milk every year, till within one week of calvina:, merely because she had a great head, or a large frame, or small teats, or, in short, because she had not any one of the fine jioints described in the " Complete Grazier." In this, as in every thinsr else, we must not alwajs trust wiioily to the exterior. It has been this account. Nor can they recomniond any to be given, without a more satisfactory evidence of the success of the operation and of all tlie advantages specified. Should this be the case, at any future time, it will always be in the power, as they doubt not it will be the inclina- tion of the trustees, to grant a just reward for this, as well as for any other successful improve- ment in the important operations of as:ncultiire^ Mr. Menam also presented several spaved Sows, for the society's premium for animal.* of that description ; but they were not accompa- nied by any statement of the mode of operation and treatment as requij-jd by the rules estab- lished by the Trustees, and besides, the opera- tions were very recent, and apparently, some of them at least, done expressly for the exhibition, and for the purpose of offering for the premium. Now in a case of this nature, when a premium is proposed expressly for the purpose of testing the eiFicac\' of an important, and in this coun- try, in some respects, a new operation, youp commiitee apprehend that no premium ought to be granted, unless by well attested experi- ments, supported by a lapse of time sufficient to leave no que'^tion of the result. Mr. .Tobn Baker had entered also four spayed sow-, belonging to Gorham Parsons, Esq. for Ih? jircniiiim proposed for the same operation. i They were in iine health an^ SALE, at the Agricultural Warehouse, in Chambers No. 20, Merchant's Row, (opposite the East end of the Old Market) — a number of Broicn's Patent Family Wool Spinners, which are found on trial to be one of the most useful domestic implements that have ever been invented for that purpose, being of so simple and easy construction that a girl of the age of 15 can well do the work of six pirsons in spinning, and so compact in its form as not to require so much space as a common family spinning wheel. The advantage of this machine over and above the common mode of family sjiinning, is at once tested in a few minutes operation with the machine ; it at once discovers its immense saving of labor, its accuracy in spinning a good thread, and thf quantity it will spin. It requires no further examination to judge of its utility than to see it operate. It is afforded at so low a price as to bring it in common use to every prac- tical farmer, and is well calculated for the employment of the inmates of our common town's hoor houses. — Any number of Machines can be furnished at the short-- est notice, and warranted. Cct. 26, 104 NEW ENGLAND FARiMER. From lltt Jlallimore Morning Chronicle. Mh. Allex — Wlun the recollections of childhood, its companions, cares and pleasures, come over the mind, they act on the imajiuation, a« the soft, hazy, voluptuous atmosphere of an Italian sky does u])on the corporeal faculties of man ; — tliey soothe our moj-t agi- tated moments, and, like oil poured ujion the waves of a troubled ocean, they calm the tumult of the' passions. I felt the force of these remarks very strongly, a lev days since, and my feelings embodied themselves in the following^ lines, to a well knonn air. When first in childhood's happy yeiu-s, i:*re pleasure knew decline, We wonderM why the old sh' d tears i'ot Auld Lang Syne. The future then, was spread with flowers, Joy's sun did brightly shine, And we thought not then of former hours Of AuUl l.ang Syne. Too young to know the pangs of life. No woe could we repine ; For we wept no hours with trouble rife In Auld Lang Syne, And now, when clouds have dimmed our day, When sorrows made us pine ; We cheer the gloom with a glimmering ray Of Auld Lang Syne. Tis a sun bright spot on " life's dark stream," Which giily e'er shall shine, And our happiest hoUr, is our longest dream Of Auld Lang Syne. Then fare thee well, 'till next we meet. Affection wont decline ; And we'll talk, when Ihtn we fondly greet, Of Auld Lang Syne. Ballimore, Oct. '2d. WIZZARD k Co. From the Charleston (3. C.) Courier. To the AgricuUund Society of South Carolina. Gentlemicn, The following remarks from the recently published " Travels in INew England, by i'resident Dvvight," (vol. 2, p. 92,) seem to be particularly interesting at the present time. If this valuable Beach Grass could be introduced into our state, there is no reason to doubt that it would flourish on our sea-coast ; and it might, under the Divine blessing, at such places as Sullivan's Island, be the means of saving many valuable lives. It would be an object, too, of no small importance to prevent the farther diminution of those salubrious re- treats. There could be no difficulty in procuring from Cape Cod, a sulficient quantity of the Grass Plants to make a fair experiment. T. N. B. — Would not the Agricultural Society of Mas- sachusetts, if applied to by our Society, furnish the Plants for an experiment ? BEACH GRASS— ITS UTILITY. " On the drycst and most barreri of these Sfrounds grows a Plant, which I had never be- fore seen, known here by the name of Beach Grass. This vegetable bears a general resem- blance to sedge ; but is of a light bluish-green, and of a coarse appearance. On these sands, sterile as they appear, it flourishes with a strong and rapid vegetation ; and, I believe, not at aU, or very rarely, on any other ground: and here one would naturally think nothing could grow. " From a Mr. Collins, now an inhabitant of Plymouth, and formerly of Truro, I received the following information: '• When he lived at Truro, the inhabitants were, under liie authority of law, regularly warned in the month of ;\pril (yearly) to plant Beach Gra-ic, as in other towns of New-England they are warned to repair Highways. You will observe, that it was required by the laws of the .State, and under the proper penalties for disobedience — being as regular a public tax as , any other. The people, therefore, generally attended, and performed the labor. The Gras.s was (lug in bunches, in which it naturally grows; and e;ich bunch divided into a number ol smaller onesv These were set out in the sand at dis- tances of three feet. After cue row was set, others were placed behind it in such a manera^ to shut up the interstices, or, as a carpenter would say, so as to break the joints, it was placed in th.s manner, in order to prevent the Wind irom having an open course through the Grass in any direction, iest it should drive the sand away. When it is once set, it grows ot course, and spreads with rapidity. Every bunch enlarges, and, with its seeds, plants new ones around it. ' The seeds are so heavy that they bend the heads of the Grass, and, when ripe, drop directly down by its side, wiiere they im- mediately vegetate. Thus, in a short time, the ground is covered. Jl'here this covering is fount! none 1 not yet been ascertained, and consequently a ra- ' tional mode of cure has n'ner been adopted. Neglecting the romantic and idle tale of the dy- ing curse pronounced on this place by a murder- ed Indian, we are to search for the cause of the disease in the food which the cattle eat, or in the water which they drink. The fact that cattle are seized with the dis- ease late in the winter seems to point to the food as a source of the evil ; and it is well known that certain plants have proved prejudicial and fatal to cattle. The cicula virosa, or water hemlock, was found by Linna;us to be the cause of a disease afflicting the cattle in Norway ; and here goats and sxvine were exempted from the disease ; but this plant was not observed in Bur- ton, nor was any other vegetable discovered here which does not grow in other places in the same latitude; and hence we do not believe that the disease is caused by the food. In con- firmation of this opinion, I may adduce the tact that the hay produced in this place, causes no disease in cattle which are kept on it in the neighboring towns ; whereas hay which is brought from other places into Burton, does not appear to prevent the complaint. It has been sarcastically suggested, that cattle died at Burton because there was not a suffi- cient quantit)' of hay produced there to keep them; but this suggestion appears to be as un- just as it is ungenerous. Hay is produced in such quantities as to be more than sufficient for the cattle. The result of my inquiries on this subject is, that there is a sutKcient quantity of hay produced there for the use of all the stock, but that it does not contain any vegetable sub- stance which is prejudicial to the cattle, and which may be considered as a source of the dis- ease. The examination of the water from various places in Burton otters a more satisfactory re- sult; but there are no external marks which in- ilicate that the water is unhealthy — no sediment is found, no incrustations appear on the sides of the rivulets and springs ; but on the contrary ihe water is clear,* transparent and colorless, md of a pleasant taste. From such properties, 1 despaired of detecting any substances in it by Ihe application ofchymical agents, but was hap- pily disappointed on making the examination. A portion of water from a brook, to which the :attle have free access, was first examined. Tincture (j/ioop produced cloudiness ; oxalate if ammonia produced a slight cloudiness ; and hi- irate of silver produced a similar effect. — Ne change occurred on the addition of Barytic ■a.-ater, solution of Frussiate of potash, or tincture of galls, or of turmeric. It follows from the action ol" ihese agents that the brook water, unlike the water of most brooks, is an hard water and con- tains some saline bod\'. — From the action of ox- alate of ammonia, we infer the existence ol lime; and nitrate of silver proves the existence ot muriatic acid ; the water is then a weak solu- tion of muriate of lime. Having ascertained the existence of minute portions of muriate of I. me in brook water, an e. -lamination was made ot the water procured from other sources ; and I * It is a common remark that the waters of Burton are remarltably cfear ; probabiy their refractive density is increased by U\e ealiue matter they contaiu. water from eleven other places, remote from each other and from the brook abovcmentiom.d, was examined, and the same effect was jiroduc- ed by the same agents. The etTcct was more perceptible in some instances than in others, and usually greater in water from u-elts than in that from other sources. The water from two wells in particular afToided alnimlaiit precipit- ates with the oxalate of ammonia and nitrate of silver. The only boast laboring under the dis- ease while I was at Burton, drank daily from one of these wells. The continued use of a weak and very di- lute solution of muriate of lime, may from its known properties, produce the eft'ect now as- cribed to it, and be the cause of the disease. .Muriate of lime, it is well known, is employed as a medicine, and, like other saline medicine, acts more powerfully on the general system in small doses /az-n-c/i/ diluted, than in greater quan- tities, and in a more concentrated state. In some diseases of the glands, it is said to have been employed with advantago, and when first administered, improves the appetite and gener- al strength. The latter effect is very evidently produced on cattle when first pastured in this town. If previously thin and emaciated, they speedily become fat and appear better than cat- tle ordinarily do, during the tirst season they are pastured in Burton. It may with propriety be asked, why horses and ho^s escape the disease, if it is produced by the water ? A satisfactory answer is derived from the fact that horses are not suffered to remain a long time at home ; they are continually absent on journics, and probably in most instances lake as much water from other sources as they do from the wells and springs on the farms to which they belong'. Hogs take but small quantities of water, and from the mixed and heterogeneous kinds of food given to them, they must frequent- ly take such saline substances as will counteract the eflects produced by the minute portions ol muriate of lime. If the disease arises, as is supposed, from the saline contents cf the water, we can easily ex- plain the fact that its attacks are most freijuent in the winter. If is then that they usually re- ceive water tiom wells, which are proved by experiment to be most strongly impregnated ; and then also springs are generally low and con- sequently confa.n more saline matter: nor does the food in winter tend to counteract the ettect of the water, by keeping the bowels lax, which .s a well known effect produced by summer and spring food. The di.sease, to which the cattle in Burton are thus subjected, has been a great obstacle to ihe prosperity of the town; and it will proba- bly continue to have this effect, although with- out doubt it may be prevented by proper atten- tion and management. Some persons, residing in Burton, have for several years past given to llieir cattle during the wmfer season, a certain kind of mud, and, as they affirm, with some ben- efit. This mud is found on a meadow, and dur- ing the summer, it is collected for use ; it is made into balls as large as an ordinary potatoe, and forced down the ammal"s throat ; by it the 106 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. tonic effect of the muriate of lime is prevented, and the bowels are kept lax. i visited the spot where the mud is procured. — .\ spring issues I'rom the place and the water brings witli it a jfreyish white matter which is deposited in the rill leadiii>:C from the spring. This whitish sub- stance is the matter in question. After being heated to redness it becomes snow white ; when digested in an acid, a slight effervescence oc- curs, a portion is dissolved, and the remainder has the character of fine white silicious sand; the portion dissolved in the acid was iound by appropriate tests to be carbonate of lime. The effect of this substance cannot be explained on chymical principles, and doubtless depends on the general principles, of the effect of laxatives in counteracting the actions of tonics. Having embraced the idea that this disease a- rises from the small j)ortion of muriate of lime dissolved in the water, 1 recommended to a num- ber of the inhabitants who were assembled for the purpose of assisting me in my inquiries, to mike use o[ -.neak ley, or ashes, or suap suds, as a remedy, or rather as preventives. Either of these substances, from the carbonate of potash they contain, will decompose the muriate of lime, and carbonate of lime and muriate of pot- ash will result from such decomposition. Now both these substances, if not quite inert in the small quantities in which they would be produc- eil, nil! act as purgatives ; and as a confirmation of the general principles advanced in this paper, I was informed, on recommending soafi suds, that the only coiv which was ever raised in Burton and escaped the disease, was in the habit of fre- quently drinkino; soap suds from the tubs whicli tontained it; and that it was consequently left for her use after family washings. It is not a little remarkable that the inhabitants did not a- vail themselves of the information to be derived trom this hint. A person who formerly lived in Burton brought water from a spring situated at a distance from his house, for the use of his cattle, and they were found to thrive much more, - lishers. — OS THE CULTURE OE TCRNIP3. Sands anfl sand loams are peculiarly adapted to the culture of this root. The county of Norfolk, which is one of the most improved ag- ricultural districts in England, has acquired its high reputation, in a measure, by its turnip crojis. Cattle are winter fattened upon them invariably, with the aid of straw, or sometimes a little hay. The soil of that county was very similar, originally, to the pine district between the Cahoos and Coeymans. But our hard win- ters prevent our using this root with English economy. There they are left in the field, and drawn daily as they are wanted. Here they must be housed or buried, before the frosts set in. Nothwithstanding this objection, 1 am sat- isfied, from four years' experience, that they may be cultivated by us with great prolit, as a cattle food, particularly the Swedish sort, or ruta baga. The flat turnip, of which the green and red top are varieties, is raised with very little troub- le, and vvith me have been invariably a second crop. I have sown them after wheat, rye, peas, and flax, with a single ploughing, with and with- out manure, with unitbrm success. 1 have sown from the iiOth July to the 10th Aug. broadcast, at the rate of one pound of seed to the acre — generally hoed them once; and the medium crop has been about 200 bushels per acre. T7ie later turnips arc grcntm, the better they arc for the table. The ruta baga requires more labour in rais- ing, and better compensates for it. I plough twice and harrow ; about the 1st July, the ground is thrown into three feet ridges, by turn- ing two furrows back to back. The manure is then drawn out, and thrown with a shovel into the furrows, about six rows being dunged at a time. The manure is covered, by reversing tlie ridges, as soon as practicable ; and when the whole field is finished, a light one horse roller is passed over lengthwise, which flattens the ridges and pulverises the lumps. The seed is then immediately dibbled in one foot apart. A man will make the holes, and two boys, of 10 or 12 years old, will drop the seed, and cover two acres a day. One to four seeds are put into each hole. I prefer the dibble to the drill, on account of (he greater facility of clearing the crop, and because a dibble can be made in two hours by any farmer, and consequently costs nothing. When the plants are well up, I pass the cultivator between the rows, and hand hoe the ridges, for which fhe skim hoe is far pref- erable to the common hoe. If the ground is not very foul, they are as easily hoed as an e(|ual quantity of Indian corn. As soon as the roots are as large as a goose quill, I thin them so as to leave but one plant in a place, and fill up vacancies by transplanting. After this, the cultivator is passed through them once or twice, and the weeds, if any, on the ridges, taken out with a hoe or the hand. The product has been from 400 to tJOO bushels. To preserve the roots, dig about one foot deep upon the side of a hill, leaving the bottom inclining, and sufS- ciently broad each way to be able to pile in the space, in the form of a cone, 100 bushels. Place the roots in it, and bring the top to a point as far as practicable. Cover with straw, and then dirt. They will bear considerable frost without injury. Take care to dig a trench round the mound to turn off the water. In March, or perhaps February, you may break through the frost, and take out "roots, lay them on your barn floors, and cover them with hay or straw ; from whence they may be fed to cattle. The ruta baga is fed without cutting, to neat cattle — a bushel a day, without straw, is enough for a milch cow. To fat cattle, they may be given in greater quantity, though never so many as to occasion a continual looseness. Hogs will feed and fatten on them ; cut small, they are remarkably fitted to fatten sheep ; and the horse, once accustomed to them, will prefer them, to his grain. For all aninuils, they are improved by steaming or boiling. In the north t^f England, it has been stated, that stage horses are kept upon steamed ruta baga, without grain. A gen- tleman in Dutchess wintered more than fifty hogs upon them thus prepared, and the swine did well. My experience with the globe and Scotch yellow turnips, is not sufficient to enable me to speak satisfactorily of their culture; but I have both kinds growing luxuriantly. J. BUEL. J. Al.F.XANDER, Esq. Sec'ry of Albany Co. Ag. Society. ON THE CULTURE OF MILLET. Millet is cultivated both for grain and fodder. If exclusively for fhe latter, it is cut as soon as it attains its growth, before the grain begins to ripen ; if for both, as soon as the major part oi the seed is ripe, — otherwise the birds will eat anil waste a great portion of it. The stock and leaves remain green and succulent, even when the seed is all ripe. The best way to harvest the crop is, to cut it with a sickle or cradle ; and as soon as it is suffice ntly dry, bind it in small bundles, thresh it immediately without un- binding the sheaves, and use the straw for win- ter fodder. It improves the latter to have it sweat in the mow. The product is from ten to forty bushels in seed, and from one to four tons in fodder, according to the qualify and clean- ness of the land. The seed is stated, by gen- tlemen who have made accurate experiments, to be equal to Indian corn for fattening hogs ; and the stock or straw is preferred by neat cat- tle to clover. The objection to this crop is, that it is an encouniger of the growth of weeds, from its slow growth in the early stage of its vegetation. The ground should be clean, and in good heart. 1 sowed millet this year, at four several times. The first, 23d April, which was harvested a- bout the 1st August : the second, 27th May — harvested 21st August: the third, 1st June — harvested 10th September. The crops were all good. When intended wholly for fodder, I think it may be sown as late as the 10th July. From my experience in two years, I would rec- ommend that the ground be ploughed early, that the seeds of weeds may vegetate ; that the ploughing be repeated at intervals, and the crop be sown from the 1st to the 1 0th June. Cut entirely for fodder, it Ls a very nutritious NEW ENGLAND FARMER. lot food. Sow from 12 to 16 quarts to the acre, and cover the seed with the harrow. There are five species of this grain spoken of in the Domestic Encyclopedia, three of which I have had growing in my garden, this year, viz. 1. The paniann, or common millet, which is grown extensively in India, and of which it is a Dative. 2. The panicum geriimnicitm, cultivated ex- tensively in Germany and the South of Europe, where it is hulled in mills adapted to the pur- pose, and thus prepared, is used extensivcl}' for puddmo-s, &.C. Either of these kmds will do for tield culture, and they are believed to be varieties of the same species. 3. The botanic name 1 have not ascertained, but in common language the third species is cal- led the chocolate millet, from the circumstance of its seeds, prepared like coffee, making a bev- erasjc similar to chocolate, it grows similar From the American Farmer. to broom corn, and the grain is black. J. Alexander, Esq. Sec'ry of Albany Co. Ag. Society. .T. BUEL. From the Worcester papers of Wednesday. Believing that an essential improvement might be made in the breed of Swine in this vicinity, I have turned my attention to this ob- ject. I have bred from the first quality of our native stock ; but have found the produce vari- ant and uncertain in form, size and propensity : some improved, and others deteriorated. I have crossed with more reputable breeds; but did not obtain that fleshy form and disposition to fatten upon light keeping, most valuable to farmers who supply the market, and families who supply themselves. In 1820, 1 examined the pens of Mr. John Reed, of Roxbury, who, by the agency of Col. Pickering, had procured a breed from England. As he was raising and tattening upon a large establishment, having, as estimated, 13 tons preparing for market, I had an opportunity of viewing them in their various stages. From their appearance and his account of them, I was satisfied of their excellence, and obtained the kind. They may be seen in possession of Capt. Munroe, Mr. Butman, Maj. Burt, and Mr. Rufus Porter. One of the kind was exhibited at our last Cattle Show by Mr. Gleason, who obtained the first premium. It being suggested by the Committee on Neat Stock, the last year, that the breed might be improved by crossing with a coarser kind, 1 wrote to Mr. Reed on the subject, and received the following statement ; — " I have often tried the experiment of crossing with a coarser breed of hogs, and as often found my hogs to degen- -crate ; but when 1 have crossed with small- boned hogs. It has answered well. My hogs are of the Bedford breed, so called in England ; and experience has proved, to my satisfaction, that this breed is far the best that has been in- troduced into our country. They are quiet in their nature, fat easy and with little expense or trouble. I have had some weigh, at 12 months old, about 340 lbs. ; and a considerable number, at 18 months old, 400 lbs.'' I have distributed two litters of the kind, and have the third now ready for disposal. O. FISKE. Worcester, Oct. 28, 1822. A PLOUGH CLEANER. Douninglojm, Pa. ItK Month \4lh, 18':!2. Respected I'riend, 1 have received thy acceptable letter, and really wish that I could add to the merits of thy work, by " frequent mental contributions," as thee desires me to do. But 1 feel great delica- cy in venturing any remarks among the able productions of thy correspondents. And 1 know so lilllo of the theory of Aarricuituro, iliat niv observations must necessarily be confined to n few practical matters, such as niigbt occur to any one who has been raised as a plain f.iinier. 1 will, however, now give thee a description and drawing of an appendage to the plough, which I have used for several years, and found very convenient ; it is a " plough cleaner."' I very recently exhibited the contrivance before the Philadelphia .Agricultural Society, and it was approved by their Committee on Imple- ments. The staff B, rests towards one end on the coupling round of the plough handles ; at the other end it has a mortice. A; to receive the upright E ; they are connected by a pin, so as to work like a hinge. The upright E, is placed three inches before the coulter D, and joined to the beam, C, by a screw bolt, which may be passed through eith- er of the three holes in the upright, so that its range can be adapted to the depth of ploughing. The front edge of E is made a little circular, to prevent its acting as shears ; G represents a circular thin steel spring, screwed on the beam and tied with a string to the statf, B. The whole contrivance is placed on the land side ol' the plough. The ploughman, when he wishes to use it, grasps the staff with his left hand, and drawing it backwards causes the lower part of E to ad- vance and rid the coulter of whatever h..d col- lected about it. The spring, G, will then re- store the upright and staff to their former po- sitions, ready to be used again. I am with much respect thy friend, JOSEPH KERSEY. From the I'illafce Record. The following communication from .Mr. .Sharpless, of Downingtown, is worthy of attenlion. The experiment for the preservation of Peach trees from the worm, we earnestly recommend to those who have the means of trying it ; and we shall be obliged by being informed of the effect. We shall also esteem it a favor if any one will give us information how to preserve the Mo- rella cherry from the fly which is so rapidly destroying it. Mr. Sharpless has our thanks for his note ; we hope he will continue his observations and give us the result. — Domunglon, Pa. iOth Month 10/ft, 1822. Esteemed Friend, I had observed to a friend, that I thought it a pity that the Peach, which was so highly es- teemed in its season for its agreeable flavor as well as wholesomeness, could not be cultivated with that success they formerly were. He remarked that he had heard of an accnien- tal discovery which had been made to prevent or destroy the worm. A Fuller who had been colouring cloth with the shells of walnuts — after having extracted the colouring property from them threw them out by the root of a Peach tree which stood naar liis .Mill, it appeared to be on the decline, the consequence was that the tree revived and grew luxuriantly ; this induced him to suppose that the shells contained something destructive to the worm, he therefore applied them to other trees with equal success. As it is now the season for gathering the Wal- nuts, 1 have thought it right to communicate Ih s information to tlie public that the experiment may be made. I have discovered that the worm whicli has injured (ur Peach trees, like the Hessian fly has passed from East to West. I was in the Red- stone country 22 years ago, the trees then, had not been injured by them — about 12 years af- ter, was there again, when the trees were al- most all destroyed ; and for 1.5 or 20 miles West, beyond that they were fine and flourishing — 7 years afterwards passed through the western part of the state into Ohio, found the worms had pro- gressed westwardly as far as Mt. Pleasant, and but a few miles beyond; this was 3 years since, from hence I concluded that the fly which gen- erates the worm moves on a few miles every year. This I think is the case with the insect which has within a few years affected the Morel- la Cherry trees, which are now nearly all des- troyed. The first I saw of their eflects on those trees, was in the neighborhood of Germantown, not more than 7 years ago, I think it was 3 years before Uiey reached this part of the coun- try. From the Providence Journal. Rhode-Island Silk. — Isaac Barker, Esq. of Middletown, in this state, now in this town, wears a very handsome silk vest, which was wholly produced and manufactured on his own farm. He has made silk for three or four years, commonly about thirty pounds a year, when prepared for spinning, and, we are happy to learn, finds it a profitable business, which he thinks may be extended with ease and advantage. We doubt not, the farmers of the state might easily make enough of this valuable article to supply our own consumption. Thus, one after another, are the resources of our country brought into view, atid rendered valuable. The lime was, when it was thought hardly practicable to procure a woollen hat, of domcstick manufac- ture. The time may be, when we shall export silk stuffs, as we now export cottons, by bales and cargoes ! An extensive establishment for repressing Cotton is now rising at Mobile. The buildins: is 226 feet in front, by 130 deep. There will be, exclusive of horse presses, a powerful H3'- draulic Press, which is calculated to press 270 bales a day. There are to be two fire engines attached to the premises ; and four wells will be excavated on the ground. The proprietors of this establishment are Messrs. Lepetre i Townsley. The expense of the undertaking it IS calculated will be about 50,000 dollars. Statesman, 108 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. FACTS AND OBSERVATIONS RELATING TO AGRICULTURE & DOMESTIC ECONOMY fROFITABLt; ANU RESPECTAnLE EMPLOVMENT FOR VOUNG MEN. Extracted ftom an " Address of the General Committee of the Board of Agriculture, for the State of .\ew- Vork, to the Officers and Members of the County i^ocifties." " To those resolute young men, who, Iiaving discovered that there is no longer room for thorn in the professions and in commerce, ;ind are not afraid to looij to the ample hosnm of nature for their support, the committee would advise, that, having completed their education (for education is a great protection and solace in the indolent hours of the country) they place themselves with some opulent farmer, for three years, to learn the practical and fundamental principles of his art. These they can learn at his expense, and can repay him for his care by their industry and fidelity. At the expiration of that period they can, if they have a moder- ate capital to begin with, establish themselves with great prospect of success. Some capital, however, is necessary ; to own a bare farm and nothing but that, is only an embarrassment of a dilTnrent kind ; a moderate capital is essential to put it in operation and make it productive. It is the want of that capital which has caused agriculture, as an art, to be so long stationary in this country. The accession of every intel- Jigcnt family and person to the country is a sub- stantial acquisition. By multiplying and spread- ing intelligent persons over the face of the state, the condition and hni)pine3s of society »vill be rapidly improved ; and experience will teach them, what it has already taught to oth- ers, that it is not only possible to be truly con- tented in the country, but to have no wish for change." TO PREVENT BEES FROM BEING DESTROYED BV THE WORM. Set each corner of the hive on a piece of wood about an inch square and a quarter of an inch in thickness. This elevates the hive a little and prevents the deposits of the eggs which produce the worm, and which are al- ways placed where the edges of the hive come in contact with the bench. — Ainer. Fanner. TO PRESERVE CATTLE FROM DISEASE IN THE WINTER. When cattle are kept out in the winter, it is recommended ai a useful practice to rub some tar at the root of the horn, which prevents the wet from getting between the root and the skin, and it is snid contributes to preserve the health of the animal, and to kee]> it free from various diseases to which it may otiierwisc be liable. ibid. AGRICULTURE, CO.MMCRCE AND MANUFACTURES DEPEN- DENT ON ELACH OTHER FOR PROSPEF.ITV. Extracts from Mr. Law's Address to Prince George's Agricultural i^ociity iu Maryland. " That consumers for our agricultural pro- ducts should increase with augmenting food, &c. you will acknowledge is most desirable, and that the consumers should be rather at home than abroad, as tliey must be adding to the wealth of the nation by their products of indus- try, given in exchange for the products of the soil, will, 1 trust, be granted ; for double indus- try is thereby obtained, and our country is ren- dered independent of foreign nations lor clotii- ing, furniture, iron mongery, crockery ware, glass, &.C. " An apprehension I am aware is prevalent, that foreign commerce will be diminished by manufacturing for ourselves ; but much delib- eration makes me conclude that it will increase, as well as the coasting trade. The only truly desirable commerce consists of the exchange of our indig-enous products in a raw or manufac- tured state for the products of foreign climes, and it is evident that we shall bring back more silk, coffee, sugar, tea, spices, wine, &c. as in- creased industry enables us to export more. " It is proved by Mr. Colquhoun, that poor rates are heavier in a country merely agricul- tural, than in one whose inhabitants are merely manufactural. The reason is obvious. When the head of a family is sick or dies, who is a cultivator, his wife and children become pau- pers ; but if he be a manuAiciurer, his wife and children can be employed in factories. Hu- manity and patriotism therefore dictate, that a nation ought not to be merely agricultural. " In sea-port towns manufacturers are parti- cularly desirable, as they support the wives and children of absent sailors. Poverty causes crimes and vices, and 1 have observed that there were fewer vagabondising boys, and fewer wretches in jails and poor houses, in manufacturing sea ports. The moralist and statesman must there- fore be advocates for this last state of society."' In order to make butter in cold weather, it is recommended to pour as much boiling water into the cream as will bring it to the tempera- ture of milk just from the cow. Cream so man- aged, says a writer in the American Farmer, will require very little churning, and no other disadvantage accrues, except that the butter will be white for a day or two. WASHING RENDERED EASY. For the use of private families, where linen is dirtied by perspiration or grease, it will be of great service towards rendering it white to steep it for some time in a clear liquor, made by mixmg one quart of quick lime in ten gal- lons of water, letting the mixture stand 21 hours, and then using the clear water, drawn from the lime. After the linen has been steep- ed in this liquor, it should be washed as usual, but will require much less soap to be used. Rees Cyclopedia, art. Bleaclmig. WARM WATER FOR COWS. It has been said that cows will give the more milk in cold weather in consequence of having the water which they drink made a little warm. MODE OF PRESERVING POTATOES AND FRUIT. Put the potatoes into barrels, and fill up the numerous crevices with tine sand, which will exclude the air, and preserve them from injury. This method may likewise be applied to apples, pears, &.C. If they should be penetrated with frost, they will sustain no injury if the frostv particles are extracted by putting them in cofd water. — English Magazine. Boiling corn for hogs is recommended, and there can be no doubt but it will aflbrd more nourishment when cooked, than when raw. It is thought to be best to boil it on the cob, which will add to the nourishment afforded by the gram. Steaming would doubtless answer the same purpose. — Plough Boy. SPOILED POTATOES. When it happens that a parcel of potatoes are so t';ir destroyed as to be unfit for food of either man or beast, even after thev are reduc- ed to the consistence of soft soap," by frost or wet. there are two ways by which they can be rendered uset'ul, either in the manufacture of nitre, or converted into a rich manure. To make nitre, beat up the spoiled potatoes with dry quick lime, mixed with ashes from the hearth. Let the mixture be turned over, sprinkled with water, and exposed to the atmos- ))heric air, for the further absorption of azote. The formation of nitre may be ascertained by washing a little of the mixture in water, and moistening therewith a slip of brown paper, which will become match paper wlien dry, and burn with a force proportionate to the strength of nitre. When sufficiently strons: the whole mass can be washed, the liquid boiled down for chrystalization, and the sediments throun to the dung-hill ; or the brine can be used with com- mon salt for the preservation of meat, for pick- ling wheat, or any other purpose to which sa- line preparations are generally applied ; or will be founcl particularly useful for washing dirty clothes. — Minerva. WEEPING WILLOW. A writer in the American Farmer has the following observations : — " From a remark I met \vith many years ago, that ' in Priestley's opinion, the Willow was the greatest absorbent and corrector of bad air,' I have planted them all round that part of my rice field, which is nearest my dwelling and negro settlements. — My people are very healthy, and although I move from hence to Smithville, ten miles down the river, six weeks or two months later than my South Carolina friends do from their rice plantations, and later than any one in the neigh- borhood of Wilmington, who has a summer res- idence— and although 1 visit it almost weekly through the fall, I experience no inconvenience. In my 66th year, I do not recollect having kept my bed a whole day in my life." PAINTING WALLS TO MATUP.E FRUIT. Mr. Daws, of Slough, near Windsor, (Eng.) has made the experiment of painting one half of a wall black that was covered with a vine, and leaving the other half in its common state. That part of the vine which covered the black wall, ripened the grapes earlier, and yielded about three times the weight of fruit that the other produced. — Pomarium Briltanicmn. CATTLE STALLS. Extract from Hon. Timothy Pickering's Address to the Essex Agricultural Society. The common cattle stalls of our country are so ill contrived and so straitened in their di- mensions, that the cattle are constrained to lie down, in part, in their own dung. This dries and forms a thick coat on their hind quarters, from which they are not relieved till they shed their hair in the spring. They are thus ren- dered uncomfonable. To be uncomfortable is to sutTer some degree of pain ; and no one will suppose that animals in pain can thrive, or pre- serve their plight, with the same food, equally with others perfectly at ease. Even hogs, tho' x\EW ENGLAND FARMER. 109 '•ono to wallow in the mire, in w:inn weather, •e always pleased with a dry bed, and thrive 5St when kept clean. BEST SHAPE FOR CATTLE. the question, " What is the To the question, " What is the shape for eding well with little food?" Mr. Kni;,'ht, (a ;ntleman in England, eminent for his knowl- |n;e and accurate observations relative to plants id animals) answers, " The more deep and ipacious the chest, and the shorter and lower ly animal is, relative to its weia^ht, the better lapled it will be to live and fatten upon little CM I ; the more labor it will also go through ; id 1 have always found the most short legged ;en to be the best laborers. Mr. Marshall also jserves, in his Rural Economy of Gloucester- lirc, that the best laboring ox he ever saw, id the shortest legs.'"" — ibid. rom seeds) youth, maturity, and old age ; and I barrel or tierce be siiflicient to keep the mice SWEET APPLES, &C. "After providing a due proportion of apples r the table, and the ordinary purposes of cook- •y, I do not hesitate to express my opinion, lat for all other uses, sweet apples are entitled the preleronce. The best cider I ever tast- I in this country, was made of sweet apples, hey afford also a nourishing food to man and all imcstic animals. What furnishes a more deli- te repast than a risb sweet apple baked and lien with milk? — I recollect the observation adc to me by an observing farmer, before the merican revolution, that nothing would fatten ttle faster then sweet apples. Mentioning this, lew year since, to a gentleman of my acquaint- cc in an adjoining state, he informed me, that : was once advised to give sweet apples to a k horse. Happening then to have them in enty, the horse was served with them, and he on got well : and continuing to be ted with ini. he fattened faster than any other horse liad ever owned (and he had owned many) it was fed with any other food. ■• .Mentioning to the same gentleman, what I d long before heard, that good molasses might made of sweet apples, he confirmed the fact an instance within his own knowledge : and ■tber expressed his opinion, (and 1 have not own a man whose practical judgement was titled to more respect) that it would not be Bcult, by forming orchards of sweet apples, to pply molasses for the general consumption of e United States. I have never tasted any eet apple molasses; but 1 suppose it has not or has honey) the rich sweet of molasses from 1^ sugar-cane ; yet, for family uses in general, "ould be a useful substitute for the latter. le process in making it I suppose to be very : nple. The apples being ground, and the juice M- cider) expressed, at the cider-mill, it is im- ?diatcly boiled, (that is, before any fermeiila- ;i takes place) and the scum being taken otf il rises, the boiling is continued until the li- ■ ur acquires the consistence of molasses. ■• Sweet apples are or different degrees ot jjeetness. Those of the richest kinds should II chosen for the purpose of making molasses. ,lif in grafting, the cions should be taken (as Jay ought to be for all kimls of fruit) not from «l, worn out trees, but from those whose ori- f lals are in full health and vigour. For it has len satisfactorily ascertained in England (and loots of it are not wanting in our own country) lat when they have reached this last stage, it is in vain that attempts are made to continue them. Or if the cions take, and grow for a few years, they are unproductive, and soon decay. The reason is plain; every ciou is a part of the tree from which it is taken; and if this bo in a state of decre])itude, so will be Ihecion; and al- though grafted on a youthful, thrifty stock, it will be of no avail." — ibid. TO MAKE A PICKLE OR Br,INE FOR BEEP. To eight gallons of water add half a pound of salt petre, one pound of brown sugar, and one quart of molasses, with as much fine salt as will make it float an egg light, taking care that the salt dissolves lest it be too strong — skim it well and it is fit for use. Your beef or tongues should be put in cold water and remain 21 hours, then drained for an hour or two, previous to being put into the pickle. Beef tongues, veal, or mutton for smoking should not remain longer in pickle than ten days. This pickle need not be boiled, (which ope- ration tends to harden the meat) but will re- main perfectly sweet till spring, when, after your beef is used or taken out, it will be found the very best in which to cure shad, giving them a delicious flavor, and fine red colour throughout. This receipt is offered with confidence to the Editor of the Farmer, as one of the very best ever adopted. And it is the opinion of the wri- ter, will answer fully as well for pork, with the exception that the latter should not be soaked in water. — American Farmer. out, 38 no fly or insect will enter the tow. Tow and llax are such bad conductors of heat, that a piece of ice will be jireserved a long time wrapped up in tow. Cut straw also an- swers extremely well to keep hams in. Aslics are apt to communicate a bad taste to meat. Care should be taken to prevent the flics from having access to the meat before being packed away. — Archives of Useful Knowledge. PRESERVATION OF BUTTER. One part of loaf sugar, one part refined salt petre, two parts of the best pure salt are to be pulverized together and kept for use ; one oz. of this is to be mixed thoroughly with IG oz. of the butter as soon as it is freed from the butter milk ; it is then to be ])ut into a close and per- fectly clean dry vessel, from which the air is to be carefully excluded, and it will remain good for many years. — Johnsoii's .hiinial Chemistry. MANNER OF PRESERVING EGGS PERFECTLY FRESH FOR TWELVE MONTHS. Having provided small casks like oyster bar- rels, fill them with fresh laid eggs, then pour into each cask, the head being taken out, as much cold thick lime water as will fill up all the void space between the eggs, and likewise completely cover them. The thicker the lime water is the better, provided it will fill up all the interstices, and be liquid on the top of the cask. This done, lay on the head of the cask lightly. No farther care is neccssarj', than merely to prevent the lime from growing too hard, by adding occasionally a little common water on the surface, should the lime appear to be grov.'ing hard, and keeping the casks from heat and frost. The eggs, when taken out for use, are to be washed from the adhering lime in a little cold water, when they will have the appearance and qualities of fresh laid eggs, the lime preserving them from shrinking or putridity. — ibid. TO PRESERVE HAMS, OR OTHER SMOKED MFAT, THRO^ THE SU.MMER.* Wrap up the meat in tow, of either flax or hemp, after shaking out the loose shives, and pack it in a tierce or barrel, taking care that there be next the tierce and between every piece of meat, a thick layer of tow packed in as close as possible ; then set it away in a dry cellar or upper room. It is enough that the CATTLE SHOWS, &c. '* This has been tried and found to answer well, says t- i f • i t t ,*^ , ' inis nas oeen iriea ana lounu lo auswtr weu, sti lu iruu trees have their infancy, (springing | the Editor of the Albany Coimty Agricultural Tract Crooklv.n, (Con.) October 21. Windham County Cattle Show. The Windham county Agricultural Society held its Cattle Show and Fair, in this village, Wednesday the 9th of October inst.— The first exhibition was the ploughing match, which be- gan at 9 o'clock. Nine teams were entered ; the quantity allotted to each team, was one eighth of an acre. This being the first exhi- bition of the kind in the count}', excited great interest, and afforded much satisfaction, to both ladies and gentlemen, assembled to witness il. The team of Mr. Chaffee, of Canterbury, per- formed its work in the short space of twelve and a half minutes ; Mr. Gregg's team of Pom- fret, in fourteen minutes ; the team of Mr. Spencer, of Hampton, being one pair of two years old, and one pair of yearling steers, in eighteen and a half minutes, in a handsome man- ner. All the teams showed they were manag- ed in a masterly style, in the performance ot their work, and the whole was executed much to the credit of the owners, .\fter the ploughing match, the society assembled in the meeting- house. Prayers by the Rev. Mr. Fowler, of Plainfield, a member of the society. An ad- dress was delivered by Elisha B. Perkins, Esq. ot Pomfret, much to his credit, and to the satis- faction of the Society. After the exercises at the meeting-house, the society, honoured by delegates from Rhode-Island, and honourary members of the society, proceeded to view the animals and articles offered at the exhibition; and at 2 o'clock, partook of an excellent dinner, provided by capt. Mather. Mr. Erasmus Stebbins, received premiums for the best pieces of broadcloth and cassimere. A very fine team of about 100 oxen, from Woodstock paraded through the street, and did much credit to the enterprising spirit of the farmers of that town. The annual meeting of the Rockingham, (N. H.) Agricultural Society was holden at Exe- ter on the 16th and 17th of Oct. By a vote of the Society last year, the custom of meeting in the spring for the choice of Officers, k.c. was abolished, and it therefore became necessary to appropriate two days, instead of one, to the business of the Society at its fall meeting. The 110 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. recent anniversary being the first mnier the new arrangement, it was not to be expected that the exercises and exhibitions could be di- vided between the two days with so much con- venience and satisfaction to the public, as can be done hereafter with the aid of experience. These complaints will doubtless be obviated at the next anniversary. The exercises of the morning were followed by dinner served up for the Society on the lower floor of the Court House, under the di- rection of Col. Burley, in his usual style of ele- gance and abundance. The beautiful and ap- propriate decorations given tor the occasion to this spacious room attracted crowds of admiring visiters, and gave an acceptable pledge of the welcome, which the Society will ever find among the citizens of Exeter. Among the most prominent articles of manu- facture were the specimens of Carpeting offer- ed by Mr. Theodore Moses and Miss Martha Oilman, of Exeter, and Mr. Kent, of Chester. The lilliug in that of Mr. Moses was wholly of woollen rags; the beauty of the piece attracted much praise. The hearth rug olTered by Miss Sophia Smith of Exeter, was much admired, and was highly creditable to her taste and in- dustry. A pair of Morocco Shoes were exhi- bited by Mr. Lewis Wentworth of Exeter, made from the skin of a sheep, ivliich ti'ns living ten. hours and thirteen minutes before their exhibi- tion in the Court House. They appeared to be well and skilfully manufactured. A beautiful grass indispensable, and a handsome basket, made of musk-melon seeds, were exhibited by a young lady of Portsmouth ; and a neat silk purse, knit by Mrs. Brown of Kensington, -^-ho has been blind s:ienti/-seven years. Twenty apples, exhi- bited by Capt. Nathaniel Paul, oi" New Market, weighed 21 1-4 pounds; they were natural fruit from one tree, and of good flavor. Two apples were exhibited by that skilful horticul- turist, Nathaniel Adams, Esq. of Portsmouth, being the first and second growth of a tree in his garden. The apple of the first growth was of a large size, and that of the second weighed more than six ounces. Some apples, in tine preservation, the growth of 1820, were exhibi- ted by Rev. Isaac Hurd, of Exeter. Gen. Samuel M. Richardson was chosen Pre- sident, and Gen. Elias H. Derby, V. President. The thanks of the Society were unanimously voted to the Hon. Nathaniel Oilman, (who had held the olnce of President the three last years) for his faithful, assiduous and valuable services. The Rev. Joel Abbot was appointed Orator for the next anniversary, and Nathaniel A. Haven, Jr. Esq. of Portsmouth, was chosen for 1821, who will deliver the Address at the next anni- versary, in case of a failure on the part of Mr. Abbot. The second day was devoted to the exhibi- tion of cattle, the trial of the strength of the working oxen, the auctions, and the reports of the diltcrcnt examining committees. A very interesting report was read before the Society in the morning, by Ichabod Bartlett, Esq. Chair- man of the Committee on butter., cheese, wine and cider. This report will be published at length. Among the animals, most worthy of notice, was a tine imported cow, owned and exhibited by Col. Joshua VV. Pierce, of Portsmouth, very remarkable for extraordinary size and beauty. Jlnr girth wot over seven feet; her weight probably exceeded tifteen hundred pounds ; and all the distinguishing marks of a good cow were seen in full perfection in this beautiful animal. The bull of Gen. Derby, of the Holslen and English breed, and the" bull of the Whidden breed owned by Captain Nathaniel Oilman, of Exeter, well entitled their owners to the pre- miums which they received. The yoke of fal oxen (weighing 2"200 lbs. each,) the cow and heifers, of the improved short horned breed, exhibited by Capt. Nathaniel Oilman, the tine bull of Mr. John Thompson, of Stratham, a yoke of uncommonly large two year old bulls, of Seth U. Shackford, Esq. of New Market, the large calf of John Moulton, of Exeter, the bull call of Mr. Wells, of Hamptonfalls, remarkable for its rapid growth and fine shape, and a yoke of Steers of Henry Butler, Esq. of Nottingham, were very much admired. A team of several yokes of strong and beautiful working oxen, from Kensington, gave interest to the exhibi- tion, and reflected great credit upon that town, distinguished as it has long been for its excellent farmers. The sow and pigs exhibited by Col. Walker, of Exeter ; the swine by John Gordon, of Exeter; and the quarter blooded sow of the Cobbet breed, owned by Col. Chadwick ; and the boar of the same breed of William Lane, of Exeter, remarkable for the shortness of its legs and snout, and its depth and thickness, were much commended by the committee. Several excellent Colts were exhibited; and the Stud Horse of Jonathan Clark, Esq. of Northwood, was pronounced worthy of premium. In the trial of streng'th, the yoke of working oxen, (five vears old.) drew the load, which weighed upwards of sixty three hu7idred, up Spring street, with apparent ease. They were immediately put upon the drafts facing the load, and managed it well. The yoke of working oxen, owned by Mr. Samuel French, of Not- tingham, drew up the same load, and exhibited uncommon strength and good training. The load was drawn up by the oxen of Samuel Dear- born, and Dearborn Blake, Esq'rs. of Kensing- ton. This part of the exhibition was followed by a trial of the strength of the purse, on the floor of the Court House. The butter of Bradbury Robinson, of Greenland, which obtained the first premium, was purchased at 47 cents per pound, for that warm and steady friend to the agricul- tural interest, Capt. Morris of the U. S. Navy ; and the lot of Biley L. Thing, of Brentwood, which obtained the second premium, was sold for 42 cents a pound, to James Rundlett, Esq. of Portsmouth. Abridged from the Acw Hampshire Patriot. THE FARMER. BOSTON .—SATURDAY, .NOV. 2, 1822. ON SAVING AND MAKING THE MOST OF MANIRE. {Continued from page 87.) In our former observations on this subject, we pro- tested against the uncleanly, unthrifty and unhealthy practice of permitting decaying vegetable or animal substances to waste away on any part of a farmer's lands or tenements, without the application of earth, peat, or some similar matter to absorb the steam, efflu- via, or gaseous products of putrefaction. Those pro- ducts, we observed, though exceedingly noxious, as well as offensive to man and beast, are healthy and nouiishing to plants. The farmer, therefore, wlio i rests the rank vapors which emanate from decayii animal and vegetable matter, and instead of perm ting them to pass into, and contaminate the aJr '. breathes, troasures up the invisible particles, wi which they are laden, and applies them to feed usel vegetables, causes the air to be healthy, and his plai lo be thrifty by the same means. " If we consider t subject of manure, we shall perceive one of the m< striking beauties and benefits of divine ordination, a of that wisdom, with wliich we are blessed in a the sand ways, without knowing it. This very siibstanc had it been useless, must have accumulated in heaj intolerably noisome, and perpetually pestilential ; h by the blessing of providence, it is every man's intep to remove those otherwise increasing mountains of fill and by decomposition, in various ways, in a great m« sure concealed from us, it gives increase to our fielt and adds to tlie means of industry, and the reward| the husbandman."* Those who cultivate the ground do not always i, the wise and provident part supposed by Lord Erski in the sentence just quoted. On the contrary, farm too often suffer manure to accumulate and waste heaps, generating effluvia " intolerably noisome, a perpetually pestilential," without fear of fever or fa ine, both of which are courted by such conduct. only dung is allowed to waste its richness on the t ed air, but straw, and other litter is suffered to ^-r mouldy and consume by what is sometimes called dry-rot, (both of which might be prevented, or tl bed effects obviated, by covering or mixing them ^\ a suitable quantity of earth) but dead animals, contents of privies, the emptyings of sinks, spoiled i visions, the refuse of the dairy, the pantry, and cellar, are allowed to mingle their odors in nauseat and deleterious profusion. Sometimes the highwa; rendered very delectable in consequence of a di horse, sheep, dog or cat undergoing the process of i composition in a situation most correctly calculated the accommodation of passengers, and to afford farmer and his family the full fruition of their fr ranee. Some farmi.Ts hang dead lambs, cats, dogs, i I in the forks of apple trees or other trees, or throw th on hovels or stumps at some elevation from the grou to give the pestilential emanations a good chanci diffuse themselves, without coming in contact with earth, which might convert them from poison for n and animals into food for vegetables. If, howe\ such animal remains are deposited in a barn yard of a manure heap, (which seldoms happens among g old fashioned farmers) they are suffered to lie and on the surface, offending the senses and injuring health perhaps of a whole village. Practices of ' kind are reproved by Sir Humphrey Uavy, who ; " Horses, dogs, sheep, deer, and other quadrupeds 1 have died accidentally, or of diseases, after their si I are separated, are often suffered to remain exposed the air, or immersed in water, till they are destro. by birds or beasts of prey, or entirely decomposed; ; in this case most of their organizable matter is lost fi the land in which they lie, and a considerable port of it employed in giving out noxious gases to the raosphere. I " By covering dead animals with five or six til I their bulk of soil, mixed with one part of lime, i j suffering them to remain for a few months, their deci j position would impregnate the soil with soluble ir ters, so as to render it an excellent manure ; and * Extract from a speech of Lord Erikine, delinrta one of the annual Sheep-shcarinss, at Holkham, • England. NEW ENGLAND FARiMER. Ill xiiig a little fresh quick lime with it, at the lime ol ri moval, the disagreeable effluvia will be in a great ■as lire destroyed ; and it might be employed in the au way as any other manure to crops."* If however quick lime cannot readily be obtained to cilirate the conversion of dead animals into manure, IS probable (though wc do not assert it as fact) that viring the carcasses with a pretty thick coat of un- uh. d ashes, and placing over all a quantity of earth t arthy substance, would hasten decomposition, and riire the gases resulting from putrescence. Earth, r.n. , however, will answer a valuable purpose, and lime the largest animal will be decomposed, if bu- ■d in nothing but common soil ; and the latter will rve as a store house, and preserve the products of e former for the use of the crop to which it may be If Vied. Not only the carcases of animals, but their excre- ents and urine are rendered of little value by long putrefaction. The eairth possesses the property not only of retaining the putrid steams which are formed from the dung of decomposing bodies within itself, but also of attracting the effluvia when floating in the air. The salubrity of the country depends on this latter quality ; as the practice of burying the dung under the furrow is founded on the former. The stench pro- ceeding from the dissolution of organized matter never rises through the ground to assail the nostrils, although it is sufficiently ofl"ensive from bodies, corrupting in air or water. A strongly dunged fit Id, after being plougli- ed, sown and harrowed, sends forth a healthful and refreshing smell — a proof that all the putrid vapors, which otherwise would annoy us, are absorlied and retained for the nutrition of the crop. It is on this ac- count that the poorest earth can be enriched in a very high degree by mere exposure to the gases of putrefac- tion. Put .a layer of common soil along the top of a fermenting dung-hill from 12 to 18 inches thick, and cposure to the air. Indeed every moment of such allow it to remain there while the process is carrying iposure robs them of some part of their fertility, as on with activity ; and afterwards separate it carefully ell as contaminates the atmosphere. " He who is from the heap, and it will have been impregnated with ithin the sphere of the sceut of a dung-hill, (says the the most fertilizing virtues. The composts, which of jlebrated Arthur Young) smells that which his crop late have attracted so universal attention, and occu- ould have eaten if he would have permitted it. In- 1 pied so large a space in all agricultural publications, originated in the discovery of this absorbing power of ead of manuring the land he manures the atmos tiere ; and before his dung-hill is finished he has ma- ured another parish, perhaps another county." As w exhalations as possible ought to he suffered to rise om the excrements of animals. Fresh manure should e kept as carefully from the sun and rain as grass hich has been cut lor hay. When cattle have been irded over night it would be well to throw their evac- ations into small heaps or beds, and cover them at ;a3t with a sufficient quantity of earth to prevent fcr- lentation, or absorb its products. This would cost at little labor, and would be so neat and healthy as ell as economical, that we are confident farmers will dopt it. Mr. Young says, " The first object which I have at- :nded to for many years, has been to spread a layer of irth over the surface of the yard ; peat is the best for lis purpose, with a portion of marie or chalk ; in the ant of this turf, rich mould, the scourings of ditches id some marie or chalk ; but not so much of either as I form so solid a bed as to prevent the penetration of le fluids, which should enter sufficiently to give a lack color to the whole. There is no necessity for imoving this every time the dung is removed. As lere are no advantages from fermentation in the mass II carried on to the land, no attention should be paid ) prevent treading and pressing it. But as it is bene- cial to have the whole as equal as possible, it is very seful that the stable dung should be spread over the arface, and not left to accumulate at the door. The ame observation is applicable to the riddance of the it bullock stalls and the hog sties." It is the fashion among our farmers, and was former- r in vogue iu Great Britain, to turn over and mix barn ■ard manure several times before it was carried to the .eld. This practice however is exploded among the ■est informed cultivators. Mr. A. Young says, " No urning, or mixing, or stirring ; but if circumstances of Phe richness, or quantity, or weather, have occasioned 00 much fermentation, or this is suspected, scatter ■very now and then a quantity of the same earth over 'he surface with which the yard was bedded, but not n layers. This may be so proportioned as to keep the nass from too much fermentation." The author of "Letters of Agricola," says, "Earth < a powerful absorber of all the gases which arise from the earth, and in the application of it to the most bene- ficial of purposes. A skilful agriculturist would no more think of allowing a violent fermentation to be going on in his dung-hill unmix'ed with earth or other matter, to fix and secure the gaseous elements, than the distiller would suffer his apparatus to be set at work without surmounting his still with the worm to cool and condense the rarefied spirit, which ascends in evaporation. In both, the most precious matter is that which assumes the aeriform state ; and to behold it es- caping with unconcerned indifference, is a demonstra- tion of the most profound ignorance." (to be continued.) ' ^igricnUural Chemistry. The Hampshire, Fianklm and Hampden Agricultur- al Society held their annual Cattle Show, Sec. at North Hampton, on Wednesday and Thursday of last week. The exhibitions (says the Gazette) were more inter- esting than on any preceding anniversary, and attract- ed a greater concourse of people. An appropriate and excellent Address was delivered by Mr. Mii.i.s, of Southwick. A more particular account of this exhibi- tion will be given next week. Grand Agricultural Speculation, — It is stated as a fact in the Poughkeepsie Journal, that A. S. Pell, Esq. of Hyde Park, N. Y. has growing on his farm upwards of sijti/ thousand Apple trees, nearly fit to set out. He intends to transplant the trees on about seven hundred acres of rich land in Ulster county, and to raise the fruit, which is chiefly of the kind called the Newton Pippen, for exportation. At the Brighton (Mass.) exhibition, a Stjaw Hat was shown, manufactured in Vermont, and thought to he finer than any ever imported. It was sold for eighty rtollars. The fair manufacturer was more fortunate than a Miss Nancy Bradley, of Ballstown, (N. Y.) who exliibited at the Saratoga Fair, a Straw Hat, on which she had spent three months. The Saratoga bonnet was ■ qual in quality to No. 58 of Leghorn hats, which sell from $60 to $70 ; but Miss B. only received 13 dollars in premiums from the Agricultural Societies, and 25 dollars from the purchase of her bonnet. — Phil. Union. The National Intelligencer intimates that a piratical establishment has lately been founded in Porto Rico, and states that among the persons embarked in it are several respectable American citizens, and youths of good family, who are thus setting not only the laws of their own country, but the law of nations at defiance. '" We have some curious particulars," says the Intel- ligencer, " of this expedition, which for the present we reserve." We have notliing new respecting the Greeks and Turks, which can be depended on. There is rtason to believe that the former are gaining ground, and to hope that they will at length be emancipated from Turkish thraldom. It is said that the Congress of Sovereigns will not in- terfere in the affairs of Spain. The calling together of an Extraordinary Cortes in Spain has been dtcided on. General Elio has been condemned to death and exe- cuted for having formed a conspiracy against the con- stitutional government. In France, several editors of newspapers have been convicted of giving false and seditious narratives of the trials of conspirators at Rochelle. Some have been punished by fine and imprisonment. Health o/JVew York. — On Saturday last, the Board of Health in New York published a note, congratulat- ing their fellow citizens that there was no new case, nor a death of yellow fever to be reported on that day. They recommend to their fellow citizens that previous to occupying their houses they be well ventilated, cleansed, white-washed, &c. That quick lime be strewed in the cellars, yards and privies, fires lighted in the apartments, and acid fumigations made use of. In JVew Orleans Yellow Fever reigns in frightful ma- lignity. A letter to the Editor of a Baltimore paper dated Sept. 26, states that " of a population liable t() take it, not exceeding 700, exclusive of negroes, the daily deaths have averaged 20," and the day before the date of the letter the deaths were 31. As a proof of the utter desolation which prevailed in the infected district, the N. Y. Statesman mentions that beans have been plucked from vines growing ia Liberty-street, and water-melons from two to three inches long, from vines which grew in Greenwich- street ! They are the product of seed thrown out by the inhabitants before they were driven thence by pes- tilence, and which took root iu the scanty soil between the paving stones. Mr. S. Rogers of New- York, has equalled the British Manufacturer in weaving a shirt whole and perfect. nanksgiring Day. — This religious festival is to 'be celebrated in this State, Maine and Vermont, en Thurs- day the 5th of December next. In New-Hampshire and Connecticut, on Thursday the 28th of November. It is said there will not be more than 5000 hds. sugar made in Louisiana the present season. 10 or 12000 bales old cotton remained. BROWN'S FAMILY FOR CI PATENT VERTICAL SPINNER. SALE, at the Agricultural Warehouse, in hambers No. 20, Merchant's Row, (opposite the East end of the Old Market) — a number of Brown's Patent Family Wool Spinners, which are found on trial to be one of the most useful domestic implements that have ever been invented for that purpose, being of so simple and easy construction that a girl of the age of 15 can well do the work of six persons in spinning, and so compact in its form as not to require so much space as a common family spinning wheel. The advantage of this machine over and above the common mode of family spinning, is at once tested in a few minutes operation with the machine ; it at once discovers its immense saving of labor, its accuracy in spinning a good thread, and the quantity it will spin. It requires no further examination to judge of its utility than to see it operate. It is afforded at so low a price as to bring it in common use to every prac- tical farmer, and is well calculated for the employment of the inmates of our common town's poor houses. — .\ny numbc r of Machines can be furnished at the short- est notice, and warranted. Oct. 26. H NATHANIEL BE ARBORN...EA-G RAVER, AS removed to Market Street, No. 33, over Mr. Bailey's Store, West corner building of the stone steps passage way. Ct:5= Orders for Engraving and Printing Address or Visiting Cards ; and engravings on Wood, Brass, or other metals solicited. Door Plates of any style and price, of Brass, Silver or Silver-plated. Nov. 2. 112 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. BK T. G. tESSENDKS. "Better is a dinner of herbs where lore is, than a stalled ox and hatred thereivtth^^'' Love relishes the coarsest fare, And makes the bitUrest morsel sweet ; But hatred taints the viands rare Of those who exquisitely eat. If an»er, envy, discontent, Lower o'er your delicate repast, You'd better in the woods kept lent, AVitli nought but nuts to break your fas!. 6ooncr than sit at meat with pests, Where smother'd hate torments the mind. Let hungry Harpies* be your guests. Like those that with tlie Trojan's din'd. On beggars' fragments dine and sup, Your beverage draw from Sodom's lake. Or seek from Tantalus' cup,t Intolerable thirst to slake. The poorest pot-luck, serv'd with smile?, And eaten with a thankful heart. Is better than your roasts and broils, And all French cookery can impart. Thus Daniel, and his friends of yore, Who made on pulse their smiple feast, For comeliness were rank'd before The pamper'd minions of the East. For love can relish coarsest fare. And make the bitterest morsel sweet ; But hatred taints the viands rare Of those who exquisitely eat. * Harpies weie winged monsters of heathen mytho- logy, who invited themselves to a family dinner with the Trojans. Their intrusion is thus described by Virgil : Turn litore curvo Extruimusque toros dapibusque epulamur opimi«, At sul-iita; horrifico lapsu de montibus adsunt Ilarpyia; et magnis quatiunt clangoribus alas, Diripiuntque dapes contactuque omnia focdant, Immundo. Then on the winding shore the tables plac'd, We sate indulging in the rich repast ; When from the mountains, terrible to view. On sounding wings the monster-harpies flew, They taint the banquet with their touch abhorr'd. Or snatch the smoking vicinds from the board. Pitt. + The Cup of Tantalus is a philosophical contriv- ance, so denominated from a character in fabulous his- tory, called Tantalus, and said to be king of Phrygia. This personage was condemned by Jupitt-r to suffer perpetual hunger and thirst amidst a profusion of deli- cacies, which always receded when attempted to be applied to his lip". To imitate this punishment a cup is made with a syphon fixed inside in such a manner that when nearly filled with any liquid, if one inclines it a little for the purpose of drinking, the syphon draws off the contents ; which appear to recede from the lips, as if in mockery of the person attempting to drink from the Cup of Tantalus. From the Old Colony Memorial. In Rees' Cyclopedia, under the article Cock Clwffrr, is a perfect description of the insect which has committed such unprecedented de- vastation on the vegetable productions of the earth in a g:reater or less degree through this county. " Cock Charter, the Scaralnrus melolon- tlia of Linneus, and intlolnnlha vulgaris of Fabri- cius.* The color is testaceous brown, with the thorax hairy ; tail inflected, and a triangu- lar white spot at each incisure of the abdomen. * When in the beetle state. " Inhabits the northern parts of Europe, and is highly itijunous to agriculture.! The larva is soft and gray, with the head and legs protect- ed by a shelly covering of a yellow brown col- or. While in the larva state, which continues for the space of three years,| it devours the roots, corn, and other vegetables. This mis- chievous creature subsists also on leaves and tender buds of trees, and is from that circum- stance denomaiated the (rcc-6fc?/e." " They are eagerly sought after, and devour- ed by crows, rooks, and other birds, as well as animals ; it is the larva of this insect that is so frequently turned up in ploughing, and in quest of which the crows are often seen following the track of the ploughshares."^ In Willich's Domestic Encyclopedia, under the same article (Cock Chaifer) is a more de- tailed and minute description of the insect, agreeing in all the essential points with the preceding ; so that to my mind, the insect that has annoyed us so extensively, is identified with the larva of the Cock Chafler ; and what re- mains for us, i«, I think, to endeavor to devise the means to destroy the enemy, or so to coun- teract its ravages, in some degree to render it innoxious. In the first place, 1 will suggest the policy of ceasing our hostility to the crow, and the rest of the feathered tribe which subsist on the larva, and grubs of such insects as prey on our fields ; and even to extend to them the protec- tion of legislative provision. It is true they are an impudent and mischievous race, and are fre- quently trespassers on the cultivated fields of the husbandman ; but their mischief is limited to a iew days after planting, and seldom extends to the ripe corn, as they have at that time other means of subsisting ; and should they be driven to resort to onr corn fields when nearly ripe for the harvest, is it not far easier to guard against the ravages of an enemy, tangible and that an- nounces his approach by the sound of trumpet, than against the one which is invisible, is prey- ing at the roots of all our hopes, of all our means of subsistence, and m such " iunumerable multitudes as no man can number." The Editor of the Cyclopedia remarks, " the crow feeds on grain and sometimes trespasses on cultivated fields ; but his good services over- balance those little depredations, in the extir- [lation of the maggot of the Chaffer Beetle, which feeding at the roots of the corn, would oftentimes destroy whole crops, were theij not + This applies to the early period of its existence ; as it increases in size it becomes whiter, and when fully grown is perfectly white, or yellowish white, except its head and legs which retain their primitive color, as also a small spot on each side at each incision of the abdomen. ^ In the Domestic Encyclopedia the author says — " more than four years" — again, " in the latter end of May they burst from the earth after having lived from four to five years under ground." } This applies in England where they are in a degree cherished, and are so tame as to build on the ornamen- tal trees of halls and seats ; in this country they are a pirsecuted race, and are rendered so shy of man that they can rarely be approached so as to be shot. P. S. — Those of the larva which are half grown or less have disappeared, probably gone deeper into the ground ; the full grown remain stationary — ^just under the sod, are very heavy and inactive — probably about changing to the chrysalis state ; and when they emerge from that state I presume they will assume neither the Ibrm or costume of the "ujolh or butterfly," but that of the beetle. P. destroyed by these uscftil birds." It is also marked by Mr. Marshal, in his Rural Econoijk of Norfolk, "that the method of frigh'eni» rooks in practice there, is simply to stick uji tall bough in the field infested, and to fire gun near the place; this simple expedient si dom fails of being effectual ; they being seld% shot at in .Xorfolk ; where a notion prevai, that rooks are essentially useful to the farmer t picking up worms and grubs, especially \; grub of I he Cock Chaffer, which it is believed) frequently injurious to the meadows. Tl opinion also prevails in other districts, as th are often seen to follow the plough close, pick up such grubs." In confirmation of this opinion, I will stt the fact, that this season, since the prevalen of this grub, there are now in this town, (ai small distance from the habitation of men) aci that were in the state of sward the last sprit which are now so turned up by the crows a skunks, that they have the appearance as tl they had been a pasture for hogs. The second expedient I will suggest is tl of making free use of the plough ; although cannot be anticipated as a security, it will r be without its use. The Cock Chafler, guid by instinct, avoids the ploughed ground to ( posit its eggs, and has recourse to the sward affording greater security for them and mc certain subsistence for the larva ; in proof this we observe, that the crops of corn and \ tatocs on those fields which were in tilth t last season, and more especially those whi bid been two years under cultivation, have ; ceived little or no injury, while those that wt broken up from the sward are nearly or qu destroyed. I am aware this can be only an i pcdient to secure a crop, but not a mean of « tirpation of the insect ; it is impracticable plough to the extent of their ravages ; but i ked as our fields must be the next season, i cessity and prudence will compel the farmer cultivate more than he would have done unt other circumstances ; therefore any field thai destined for cultivation the ensuing season, it be ploughed this autumn — it will open to t view of the bird of prey many of the grubs tl( are now the tenants of the soil — it will prevt a new deposit of eggs — and perhaps intern the whole economy of their system, and disci cert their plan of securitj', as they appear be a dull and heavy moulded race, incapable exertion or expedient ; and should the plou effect little or nothing as regards the dcstri tion of the insect, the farmer does not lose i laborer expense; he will find himself amj rewarded in the amelioration of the soil, and the abridgment of his labor in that season wh he is fully occupied. PLYMOTHEUS. In passing through the north part of tl town, the other day, we observed a chest tree, on which there were ripe chesnuts, a the tree was in blossom for a second growl On noticing this fact, an old gentleman in t company stated that he saw fresh strawberni in his meadow a day or two before. Lake Guardian.' The difficulties formerly existing in crossij the Connecticut, at JSaybrook, are now remo: ed by the operation of a sale and conimodi&' Team Boat, li *l '1 ublished every Saturday, by THOMAS W. SHtTAlU), Rogers' Building, Congress Street, Bosto ,1 ■| NEW ENGLAND FARMER. at »;j,.')(J Vol. I. BOSTON, SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 0, per anu. in advance, or $j,uu at the close of the year. 1822. ~~ ~ No. ]J 'M FACTS AND OBSERVATIONS RELATING TO " GRICULTURE &: DOMESTIC ECONOMY The American Farmer of August 30, 1822, ontaius a letter from Professor Green, of IVas- »u Hall, Princeton, N. J. on the insect, com- lonly called the Hessian Fly, and a fly called eraphron, which sometimes destroys the Hes- ili an Fly, in which are the following remarks: .*' " I fear the amateurs of Natural History will e able to assist but little in the extermination f so formidable an enemy to our wheat crops. s the Hessian Fly. If the devastations made y this insect are ever arrested, it will in all robability be done by the practical farmer.'' " There is a curious fact connected vs'ith this abject, not generally known to farmers, and hich has led to some little mistakes. There a fly, called the Ceraphron^ by naturalists. ;hich is often seen in swarms among the wheat bout the same time the depredations are made y the Hessian FI3'. This insect is not quite so jrge as the other, and may be distinguished rem it by the wings, which are four in num- er ; the common fly being furnished with two nly. The Ceraphron, so far from being inju- ious to the crops, is a great protection to them ; it it deposits its egg within the body of the irva or germ of the Hessian Fl}', which it ventually kills for its own support ; so that ■hole crops of wheat which might otherwise ave been destroyed are thus saved, .\fter the eraphron has deposited its eggs, their wings re thrown off, so that it appears like the com- lon ant ; and this curious fact has led many to elieve that the Hessian Fly is nothing more lan a species of that insect." ' I VIRTUES AND USES OF F.I.DF.R. 'j Extracts from Pomarium Brittanicum, an His- "'* jrical and Botannical account of Fruits known ,i|i Great Britain — by Henry Phillips, •: I " Sir J. E. Smith has remarked, that this tree iiil?, as it were, a whole magazine of physic to > I ustic practitioners. ; 1 "• The bark, leaves, flowers and berries, are tjised with advantage in medicine. The leaves re said to be purgative and emetic, and are ipplicd externally for the piles and inflamma- ions ; an ointment is made also with them a« veil as the flowers ; the latter are used inward- y as a carminative.* Infusions made from the lowers while fresh, are gently laxative and iperient ;t when dry they are found to promote he cuticular secretions,| and to be particularly ^ryiceable in erysipelatous and eruptive disor- lers.§ Sydenham directs three handfuls of the Bner bark to be boiled in a quart of milk aod water, till only one pint remains, of which one naif is to be taken at night and the other in th Horning; and this repeated every day for those jfflicted with the dropsy. Boerhave recom- *' Wind-expelling, and promoting insensible perspi ation. t Opening. :j; Separation of fluids from the skin. * Diseases of the skin. mends the expressed juice of the middle bark, given from a drachm to half an ounce, as the best of hydragogues,* when the viscera are sound. " Elder-flower water, the oil of elder, and elder-syrup are also used as medicines^ " The berries are esteemed cordial, and use- lul in hysteric disorders ; and are often put into gargarisms for sore moutlis and throats. " The fungous excressences, which are often found growing on the trunk of the elder tree, bearing the resemblance of an ear, black in the inside, and of a whitish color on the outside (called auricula: Juda'oniinl) are accounted good tor inflammations and swellings of the tonsils, sore throats and quinsies. '• The wine made from elder berries is too well known by families in the country to re- quire any encomiums ; it is the only wine the cottager can procure, and, when well made, is a most excellent and wholesome drink, taken warm before going to bed. It causes gentle perspiration, and is a mild opiate ; and may he taken safely, and with advantage, by those of costive habits. " If a rich syrup be made from ripe elder- berries and a few bitter almonds, when added to brandy it has all the flavor of the very best cherry-brandy. " The white elder berries, when ripe, make wine much resembling rich grape wine. " The buds and the young tender shoots are greatly admired as a pickle. '• The leaves or tne elder tree are onen put into the subterraneous paths of moles, to drive those noxious little animals from the garden. If fruit trees, flowering shrubs, corn, or other vegetables, be whipped with the green leaves of the elder branches, insects will not attack them. An infusion of these leaves in water is good to sprinkle over rose buds, and other flow- ers, subject to blights and the devastations of caterpillars.'' FATTENING ITOGS. Steam or boil potatoes with oats or pea meal and while hot pound or mash them tine, and have several tubs or vessels to receive them in. Before they are given to swine let them be- come thoroughly sour, and they will cause them to fatten much faster, and on a less quantity than when they are fed with food which ha.- not fermented and become acid. RULES OF HUSBANDRY. Extracts from an Address to the Essex Agricultural Society, by Andrew Nichols, Esq. 1. Cultivate no more land than can be thor- oughly ploughed, well manured at once, and kept free t'rom weeds. 2. Never keep land many years under the same crops. 3. Never lay land into grass, except it be well prepared, and in a very rich condition. Suppose for example you possess a field o; arable land, containing eight acres; how can it * Medicines which purge watery humorE. 1 .lews Ears. be most advantagi'oiisly managed ? According to the author who lays down the foregoing rules, plough up annually, in autumn, two acres. Let It be cross [duughed", harrowed, highly ma- nured, planted with corn or potatoes, and well tended the followiiii; spring and summer. In the spring next following, iilougli it twice, and sow it with grain and clover. In this way, by keeping the land in rotation, one year under Indian corn or ])olatoes, one year under I'.nglish grain, and two years under clover, it wouhrpro- duce the most abundant crops, and be continu- ally growing better, as the large tap roots of the clover especially would greatly ameliorate and enrich Ifie soil. After going through this rou- tine several times, the land Would be in an ex- cellent condition to lay into grass, thus to re- main til another portion of land could be treat- ed in tl e same manner. Keeping in view these principles, every farmer can readily apply them to other crop", which it is therefore unnecessa- ry to meitioii. IRRIGATIOSt. FaUs of water have been estimated in England to belworlh as much for watering the lami, as l"or r^ills and factories. It is well known that evenlthe temporary streams formed by the melt- ing Slows in the spring, if caused to "run a lew weel^ over dry, gravelly soils, will render them highV productive of grass the whole season. Yet our urooks and rivulets are sullered not on- ly to, ru" o waste, but even to render barren extensive ,,„e.o oi" i.,.„, i ,,,,; ,iH„itv,_ Vvherever dere is a fall ol water running through land suitable for the purpose, let it be divided, and Carried as high on each side as it will run freel;.; throw the intermediate space into ridges abo"^'? rancid, and almost worthless. Yet .such bnlcr costs al- most as much, perhaps often more,'han it would to have made it of the best qpility- Butter ihould always be made, salted m^ preserved by rule. Despise not, therefore, y selecting gojd, sound api)les, and pro- perly managing ifce liquor during and after Icr- nii'iitatinn, CiiiF.n can he made without addition, ])ossessing a fine flavour, and in strength equal to about one fourth its (|uantity of proof spirit. '' In tlic midiilc or one comer of the cellar may be liuilt a bin. 'I hrow down some board?, and cover thf bottom with straw ; or, what is better, the spent bark nf lamif-riis, generally kuowii by the name ol' tan, in sulficicnt quantity to leave it a loot in thickness under rhf necessary pressure. In the month of Kebruary or March, go to the most convenient pond of fresh wa- ter, and obtain a sulTiciciit quantity of ice, cutting or sa.ving it up in blocks as laige as can be conveniently handled, and pile it up as compactly as possible in the Vin, leaving a space of one foot or more all round it ; fill this space, and cover the whole with tan or straw, and the ice, unless the ccUer be uncommonly open, will keep the whole summer. Two men, and one pair of o.x. n, will perform all the labour necessary to lay in such a store of ice in one day. Around this ice let the pans of milk be set, and place the pots of cream and butler upon it. Place two or three pounds of ice in each box when the butter is couveyed to market. By the addition of about twenty pounds of sugar to a barrel of common cider, as it comes from the press, it will fine itself, keep foryears, even on the lees, without souring, and be much im- proved in strength. — ibiil. CATTLE SHOWS, iic. XORTHAMPTO.y CATTLE SHOW. The Hampshire Gazette of the 30th tilt, con- tains the General Report of the Executive Com- mittee of the Ham[)shire, Franklin and Hamp- den Agricultural .Society, respecting the late Cattle IsIk vv. It occupies almost seven columns of the Gazette. We can only give the follow- ing abridged sketches of its contents. The premiums awarded the present year, including those awarded upon Horses at a meet- ing of the Executive Committee in the town of Greenfield, in the month of May last, but with- out reference to those offered lor the greatest quantity of grain and other articles of produce upon a given extent of land, are one hundred and sixty-six, and amount to seven hundred and thirty-six dollars. The committee on Manufac- tures was composed of Gen. Jacob Bliss, Col. James Shepherd and Mr. Erastns Clarke. The two former only attended to the discharge of the duties assigned them, the latter gentleman being absent. The first object- of premium rehMTcJ to that committee were blue woollen cloths, and wool- len cloths other than blue, both required to be 3-1 ofa yard in width, and cassimeres. Upon these three descriptions of articles, eleven pre- miums were offered, and seven only awarded. Thirteen specimens were exhibited, and six excluded from consideration of the committee in consequence of their deltciencv in width. Of twelve pieces of undressed flannels likewise only two pieces were of the requisite width, and only two premiums awarded, though five were offered. Those undressed were retpiired to be five quarters, and those dressed o-8 of a yard. The sub-committee recommend the weav- ing of flannels for fulling at least five quartei-s wide, and remark that by weaving our flannels of that width we gain 20 per cent, in the ope- rations of weaving and dressing, and at the same lime great advantage in the facility and savinsr vvitii which it is worked. Of dressed flannels five specimens were presented, and two premi- ums awarded. The two wli:ch were denied the premium were left out of consideration, in consequence of their want of width. Of the linen sheetings, shirtings and diapers exhibited, the committee speak in terms of high commendation. Upon these three different kinds of articles 19 premiums were offered, and 17 specimens presented. The committee awarded a number of small gratuitous premiums upon specimens of webbing, linen hose, silk hose, travelling trunks, chairs, merino wool hats, and other small articles, such as a screw plate, guage, and a number of hammers, all beautiful- ly wrought. They also awarded a small pre- mium to Mrs. Chloe Strong, a venerable lady, more than 80 years of age, who offered for ex- hibition eight pieces of linen sheeting, contain- ing 12 yards, all spun and wove by herself. The committee speak in handsome terms of an invention of Mr. Cotton White, of Hadley, lor making handles to corn brooms, by moans of a hollow auger — of Teapots from the pottery of Messrs. Crafts, White, k. Co. of Whately— various and rich specimens of Cabinet Woi presented by Messrs. Judd & Cook, Beach Loveland, and Pomroy k. Bams, and awardi gratuities to their proprietors. Very nice specmens of Straw Bonnets wei exhibited, and one of grass, in imitation of th Leghorn flats was highly s])oken of". The display of Cattle was unusually fine- that of grass fed cattle superior to the exliib tion oi last year in that department. The cattl were generally of the breed of the country, i fine form, and in excellent condition. Th whole number exhibited was seventy head, an though a number were rejected in consequenc of not being exclusively gra.ss fed, the commi tee state that there were many for which pn miums were not awarded, richly entitled t them, had any further premiums been annoum ed. The committee likewise make favorabi mention of a "beautiful red heifer," exhibite by Mr. George Bridgman, of Northampton- of the number, beauty, activity and strength i the working cattle, particularly a voke ownc by -Mr. E])liraim Arnold, of Belchertoun. The Committee upon Slieep, in announcin the principles upon which they have proceci ed, remark that the breed of Merino Sheep valuable cbielly for its wool ; not that these ai im-.ils are inferior to the native sheep for tb use of the table, as they may, undoubtcdlv, t grown to nearly if not an etjual size with shee of that description. But the quality of the wO' deteriorates, as the condition of the animal, bi yorid what is termed good store order, is in proved. The committee looked chiefly, then fore, to the qtialitii of the fleece, its Jincness, i softness, and its vniJ'orini;i/, and next to its quai tty, giving to the finer fleece the preferenci although the coarser one might have been moi abundant — they desire to give in their repor prominence to the fact, that sheep bearing woi of fine harle, and s/(orf, instead of long staph are the best. They likewise regret that thei was so little competition for the premiums o leied for native sheep. The Ploughing Match was attended by great concourse of people. Eight ploughs wet entered, and four oxen and fifty minutes allov ed to each plough for the performance of th work; the land to be i)loughed was one-fourt of an acre. The committee report that th ploughing by the various competitor was ui usually good. The Committee close their Report with ih following im[iortant remarks : "By the law of 1819, each incorporated \_ riculfural Society, within the state, which rai- by the subscription of individuals a capital st( of one thousand dollars is entitled to receive i the month of October annually, from the publi treasury, the sum of rtco hundred dollars, anil proportionate sum, also, for any further addition by subscription, to its capital stock; providee however, that no society shall be entitled to re ceive, during any one year, any greater sun than six hundred dollars. Upon an inspectioi of the Treasurer's hooks, it appears that thi capital stock of this society amounts to thrc thousand nine hundred and seventy Jive dollars entitling us, of course, to receive yearly ^UUt from the state treasury, and giving us, with ^17'. payable annually by 86 annual subscribers an in come of ijtlOlO 50. The statute containing th( NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 115 bove provision was passed in February 1819, nd being limited to the term of Jive years, will xpire, if not renewed, in February, 1C24. The uestion will soon arise, therefore, as to the ropriety of re-enacting or continuing in force he provisions of the act referred to ; and it is not nlikely, bet'ore that period arrives, that the ublic sentiment upon this subject will have een distinctly ascertained and expressed. " It is sometimes remarked, by casual obser- ers, that our cattle shows, with all their impos- ^g ])ageantrv, are calculated merely for the musement of the public, and do not, in any con- iderable degree advance the interests even of liat clas* of our citizens, for whose immediate enelit they were first established, the agricul- ansts. " However little there may be, either of truth r justice in the suggestions we have mentioned, I is, nevertheless, to be remarked, that the ob- ection, even if correct, would ira|>eacli, not the visdom of the legislature, to whose bounty it is wing that we are able to distribute so large a urn in premiums, nor the public spirit or distin- uisfaed liberality of those citizens, to whom we re indebted lor the means of becoming the ob- ects of that bounty, but only the discretion or ound policy of the officers, or those who are ntrusted with the control of the affairs of the ocieties themselves. '• The great mass of the people of Massachu- etts are either husbandmen, practical agricul- urists, or artisans and mechanics, either partial- y engaged in agricultural labors or immediate!}' ependent upon the cultivators of the soil for ncouragement in their different occupations and be means of subsistence. Upon the sea board. I is true, we find multitudes, who having their irms upon the ocean, cither in their own per- ODS or through the instrumentality of others, ather from its furrows the sources of wealth. iS it respects however, the great body of the opulation of New-England, four-fifths probably f her citizens are mechanics and farmers, .nd is it possible that societies like ours, nistitu- sd expressly for their encouragement, with an icome Ibroughout the commonwealth of many housands of dollars, can do nothing for the reat interests of manufactures or agriculture ? Ind when too the perpetually varying wants of oan, real or imaginary, are incessantly calling or improvements in the one, and the earth, vith its stores of wealth, is for ever inviting lew efforts for their developement through the igency of the other ? " Agricultural Societies, as it respects this tate, may be considered, for the most part, as if very recent origin. Their growth, it is true, las been rapid beyond example, and if they are IS yet destitute, in some degree, of the heallhv iction and athletic vigor of mature life, thev are •ather to be fostered as children of high piom- se, than reproached f.ir not possessing in vouth ill the characteristics of manhood. Perhaps at iome future period, experience may djctatc im- Jfovements in the distribution of our funds. kVhile a portion of them is reserved for the ob- ects now kept in view, a part may be appro- jriated to the encouragement of the efTuils of renius in the invention of new modes of appl}'' ng advantageously the mechanical powers, or Ji aid of societies or individuals, who may be en- gaged, with a prospect of benefit, in the inves- igatioa of the nature of sojIs. Suitable rewards may be held out for the prosecution of botani- cal, mineralogical, or geological researches. In process of time, indeed, such may be the char- acter of the society, and such the correspondent [irogress of intelligence on the part of its odi- cers, and munificent liberality on the part of its members, that the bcnctits, resulting from the Institution may be too obvious to escape the ac- knowledgment of the most incredulous, and too intimately connected with the best interests of the commonwealth to require a single ellort to secure for it the cordial and hearty and perma- nent co-operation of the public. "The members of the society will suffer us to remind them, to whose beneficence we are in- debted, as well for our beautiful scenery, fruit- ful soil, and exuberant crops, as for the various institutions, of a civil and religious nature, which have given to New England its high [irc- eminence ; and as we view with that compla- cency of feeling, which even the Christian [lal- riot mav indulge, the inheritance which has been transmitted us, or the store houses and barns our own industry may have filled, let us romcni- ber with humble gratitude, Him who was our father's God, and to whose kindness it is owing, not only that otir pastures are clothed -with Jlocks, and our rallies also covered Ti'ilh corn, but that our instilutions are unimpaired, and our pros- perity and happiness, as a people, unexampled. the most meritorious of those exhibited, might be presented in the following order : )!est pair working oxen, 5 years old, owned by Joab Owen, of Suffield. ^(1 do. do. do. Col. T. Lcavitt, do. (to. Henry Owen, do. 4 do. .1. Cornish, .Ir. ^^'ind9orr do. P. Stevens, Houthwick. do. J. Forward, GrAiiby. 0 do. Apollos CJay, do. do. L. Thompjon, Pinistiury. do. P. Griswold, \\ indoor. 2 do. Col. S. Clark, Granby. do. v.. Sheldon, Suffield. do. R. 13arker, CJranby. 1 do. E. Bates, do. do. . Joini \'icts, do, do. .lotl Clark, do. Much gratification was afforded upon the oc- casion, by the attendance of several gentlemen of distinction from dillorent towns in the county. It is believed that exhibitions of this nature are well calculated to excite a sj)irit of emula- tion among agricullurisls,«and to improve our stock. ^ It is thought worlby of notice that James Forward, F,sq. exhibited a water-melon raised in his i,arden this season, the weight of which was 47 pounds, when taken from the vine. :3d do. do. Best do. do. '-M do. do. ■M do. do. Best do. do. 2d do. do. ad do. do. Best do. Steers, 2d do. 3d • do. Best do. 2d do. 3d do. Mr. Iron and Steel From tlie Connecticut Courant. GRA.XBY, {Turkey Hills Society) Oct. 23, 1822. Agreeably to previous appointment, the Cat- tle ^^how and Fair was attended at this place. The working oxen and steers in yokes, were collected on the green near the Meeting-house, at lU o'clock, A. M. There were present 30 yokes of 5 years old — 37 of 4 — 75 of 3, and 37 of 2 years old ; in the whole 175 pairs. They were all in good working order, and generally well matched. After an appropriate Address, delivered by Mr. Alfred Owen, to a numerous auditory in the Meeting-house, the whole of the cattle, by assistance of the marshals, were con- nected in one line, making a team of a full half mile in length. In this order they moved about three-quarters of a mile on to a beautiful plain lot in Windsor, belonging to Isaac Owen, Esq. where they were termed into a hollow square, exhibiting a parade novel and highly interest- ing. The Committees of arrangements and in- spection, vvlth their Secretary, accompanied by several gentlemen of respectability from neigh- boring towns, were conveyed to the |)arade ground, (not in coaches with si-.tes,) but in two substantial carts, fitted up with benches, and drawn by three hundred and seventy oxen and steers, in a style vastly superior to monaiclis and their minions. The committee of inspection, as well as many spectators, viewed with pleasure the great im- provement visible in the beauty and quality of the cattle, since the last annual Show, in Oct. 1821. Much praise is due to the owners and drivers of the cattle, for the laudable spirit man- ifested, and for the good order preserved b}- them. Among so many fine animals as were here exhibited, the inspecting committee felt a de- gree of delicacy in making very great distinc- tions between several pairs of superior excel- lence. They were, however, of opinion, tliat Itlans' method of preserving Jroin Rust. Greasy and oily, or resinous substances, have hitherto formed the basis of the different prepa- ratio»s proposed and employed for this purpose ; but \i the former, when rancidity comes on, an acid is produced, which corrodes the iron; and llie letter, when dry, are apt to crack, and thus afford an inlet to moisture. But melted caout- chout, or India rubber, Mr. Atkins has found to possess peculiar advantages in preserving the surface of iron from bein^ acted upon by the at- mosphere, irising from its little susceptibility uf chemical change, when exposed to the air ; from its treqcly consistence under all ordinary temperatures , from its strong adhesion to the surface of iron or steel: and, at the same time, from the facility wilh which it is removed by a soft bru^h charged with warm oil of turpen- tine. The finger or a soft brush are the most convenient imidemerits for applying the caout- chouc ; and, as soon as the article has been cov- ered, it ought to be set \ip on end, in order that the excess may drain avKicIi will take place in a day or two. The temperature for melting caoutchouc is nearly equal to that required for the effusion of lead. — Monthly Alag. A'cn.' mcihod nf Weaving Mats. This method consists in dispi sing in a cheap and coarse kind of loom, a double series of plain and colored lines of longitudinal stripes of twine — the stripes being at intervals consider.ibly apart from each other. These threads of twine being opened in the manner of a warp, by means ol' the treddles and harness of the loom, either Dutch rushes or the leaves of Typha lalifvlia or greater cat-tails, torn into >hreds, are to be in- Irodiiced from time to time, with a wooden nee- dle, having an eye or opening at one end of it In receive the rushes, to form the shoot, and the twine is closed over them by the continued action of tlvo loom. In this manner, a clieap and u-eful matting is fabricated, the use of which is now become yerv considerable amongst u«, although the invention is of a very recent diic.—Engli;li paper. 116 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. MASSACHUtiETTS AGRICULTURAL JOURNAL, FOR JUNE, 1832. (Continued from p. S5.) A letter from John Prince, Esq. (if Roxbury, to llie Committee on Aarricultural jiroductions, dated Nov. 1821, states the tbilowinjr tacts, viz. That Mr. Prince kc])t a iarg-e stock for the size of his farm, which is small, his house lot only f)7 acres, and was therefore induced to raise larei than the fall ploughing ; the manure covered up as fast as it was spread about from the carts, the turf harrowed fine with light seed harrows; the land furrowed back to back in ridges foui feet apart, the tops of the ridges being two feel higher than the bottom of the ditches. Th( land was then harrowed across the ridges, whicl filled up the ditches with fine rich mellow eartl a foot deep, well mixed with manure, in wbici the corn was carelessly strewed along veri) thick sprinkling gypsum on it before covering it up The corn was sown between the 10th and 2Ctl of May, was hoed three times, beginning th( first week and ending the last week in June Mr. Shepherd concludes this article as foUov.s " I have tried every plan lor several j'ear past, and this is the third year that 1 have sow ed it in rows from six to eight feet apart, will a variety of roots and plants between them The first year I got 44 1-4 bush, to the acre, o rather from half an acre; the second a ear 5( bushels, and this year 61 bushels 12 quarts. I is my belief that 75 bushels corn and 3 or 40'. bushels Ruta Baga (or 2 or 300 bushels potatoes can be raised on an acre of good rich ground cul tivated in this way ; but the corn must be sowc( very thick in rows eight feet apart, and th' ditch well filled with fine melloiv earth, am plenty of manure, nor is it an expensive mode o culture considering the great crop to be obtain ed. The cross ploughing and furrowing is extr. work, but this it is, with the aid of the harrow; that makes the great crop, if sowed in widi rows, as my experiment this year proves, ha\ ing got at the rate of 122 bushels 24 quarts i' the acre in this wa}', and in the narrow rou - with more exhaustion of the land, only 87 busli els 24 quarts. With regard to the expence o cultivating a single acre of land, the Trustee; will please to consider that 1 do not cultivate r.ii} one acre of land with a view particularly to premium, and therefore cannot ascertain the ox pence. 1 would observe however that the ex tra expence of cultivating corn in this way be- yond what it is in the usual way in hills is in- considerable. They will also decide which ol the two is most meritorious, him who cultivates his whole farm alike both as to labour and man- ure, or him who devotes all his energies to gel a great crop, from a single acre, and robs the residue of his farm for the benefit of a pre- mium." The succeeding articles in this excellent number of the Massachusetts Agricultural Re- xNEW ENGLAND FARMER. li; pository are " An Essay on the advantages of manuring wilh Green Crops — by S. W. Pomo- roy, Esq. first Vice President of the Society ,"" which we have republished, (p. 9,) and an arti- cle on " The felling of Trees for Timber," by Hon. Timothy Pickering, which we have also republished, (p. 17.) 05= We have now transplanted into (he JVcic England Fanner, either in substance, or at length, every article in the last mimber of tiie Massachusetts Agricultural Repository, whose more general diffusion we thought might be useful to that numerous and respectable class whose principal occupation is cultivating the earth. In doing this we may, perhaps, incur the censure of some of our readers, who were pre- viously in possession of the work, which has been the subject of our notices and extracts. But we believe that more than four tifthsof our subscribers do not take the Massachusetts Agri- cultural Repository, and many of them would, probably, never have seen much of the useful matter first published in that valuable work, had it not been presented to them through the medium of our paper. We are moreover con- fident that the liberal use which we have made ol'the Repository will be so far from giving ot- fciice to its conductors, that they will approve of our proceeding, as comporting with their own patriotic views and intentions. Dr. A. Hun- tor, the author and compiler of several volumes of valuable Essays on Agriculture, invited Ei/i- h : rs nj' A~c-^'spapers to maks extracts or republish .. 'lo/e articles from his essays, in order that the public might be the more extensively benefitted liy his labors. Utility rather than originality is our object, and we prefer copying a valuable irlicle from another publication, to publishing original matter, written expressly for the New r.ngland Farmer, which may have less merit : ban the article thus copied. We mean, how- ever, always to give credit, to the sources or authors from whom we derive our second-band articles ; and if some editors of newspapers (for ^vhom we hope this hint will suffice.) would leal as fairly by us, they would confer an obli- gr.tion. If certain jackdaws will not be con- sented Avith their own feathers, we will not promise not to divest them of their stolen plu- .■nngc. We shall handle them with as little f remony as a hawk would a robin. a laudable spirit of emulation. If. under a bet- tr course of husbandry, «'c could raise from 50 acres as much inoduce as we now do, un- der the ])resent system, from 150 acres, lands would become more valuable and the benefit generally would be incalculable. 1 understand Messrs. Pratts feel confident, from the result of this experiment, that they can, in a good sea- son, raise 200 bushels to the acre, and that they hope to do it next year. A P^ARMER OF ONEIDA. STATEMENT. Dr. Interest on value of three acres, at 20 dollars per acre jjSl 20 Rlanure, gl5 per acre 45 00 Ploughing and dragging three times IG 50 Seed 75 Planting 7 50 Hoeing 10 50 Gathering 15 50 Topping stalks 6 00 Cr. Corn from 1 ac. 172 1-4 bush, do. do. 161 do. do. 161 glOo 95 494 1-4 Deduct 10 per ct. tor shrink- age 49 Bushels 445 1-4 at 37 1-2 cts. per bush. ^1*^^ ^^ 2355 bundles stalks at 1 ct. each 23 55 Offered for but-ends and husks 10 00 Deduct Net profit from three acres Or ^31 55 per acre. $200 61 105 95 g94 6G To the Editor of the Utica Gazette. Sen — A friend has furnished me with the fol- lowing account of a very extraordinary crop of corn raised on three acres of land, by Messieurs .T. and M. Pratt, of Easton, Madison county, for which they received a premium from the Agri- cultural Society. The character of these gen- tlemen, as well as the exertions of a respectable committee to ascertain the truth, preclude all doubt of the correctness of the statement. The effect is unexampled in this county, and 1 hope it will not fail of convincing many of our farmers that they have mistaken the true source of ag- licultural profit, and that it may excite in thein From the Farmer's Weekly McFscnger. It appears by experiments made in Pennsyl- vania, that potatoes and corn given in a raw state are interior to the same quantity when ground, boiled and steamed, forty-five per cent, i. e. if a hog weighs three hundred, and it cost half to fat him with ground corn, and he is sold for four cents, in the one case it will cost six dollars to fat him. and in the other case it will cost eight dollars and seventy cents. If he that sells his pork, when fatted on the best terms, only lives by if, the man who feeds on whole grain must shortly expect the officer after him. It is believed that there is more diffei'ence than even the above. A discovery has been recently made, which prom'ses the most important consequences in a commercial and agricultural point of view. — About two years ago, 200 acres of land, near Flint, in Wales, were planted with the common holyhock or rose mallow, with the view of con- verting it into hemp or flax. We have been informed, that, in the process of manufacture, it was discovered that this plant yields a beau- tiful blue dye, equal in beauty and permanence to the best indigo. We relate the circumstance precisely as we have heard it from the most respectable quarter, without pledging ourselves to the fact. — Liverpool Kaleidoscope. From the American Centinel. TO J\IY niiOTHER FARMERS. I am sorry that there is so much need of the admonitions I am about to give. Depend on it you do not " ti'or/r it right,'''' or } ou would make your farms and stocks twice as profitable as they now are. Many of you farm too inuch. You would find it much more profitable to fiirm twenty acres well than forty by halves. The last season, I made ground ])roducc at the rate of one hundred bushels of Indian corn to the acre. Is not this much better than a common crop of 30 or 40 bushels? You will most cer- tainly say it is, ami with the same breath ask how I managed to make it produce so plenti- fully ? My ground being much infested with groimd mice, or moles, and also overrun with grubs and other vermin, 1 put on, early in the month of March, about seven bushels of salt to the acre, which thoroughly destroys all kinds of vermin, being an excellent manure ; early in April, I gave it a good coat of stable manure, and ploughed and worked the ground over and over, until it became completely mellow ; I then had every corn hole filled with hog ma uurc, and after dropping my corn, which had been previously soaked in warm water, I scat- tered a pint of lime over every hill, and then covered the whole with a little mellow earth. In about one week the corn began to come up plentifully, after which I nursed it well with the plough and hoe every other week for eight weeks, at which time it was as high as my head, and not a spire of it was destroyed either by the frost, grub or birds. My other things I nursed equally as well, and 1 have been amply paid for all my extra care and trouble, as 1 raised more than twice as much per acre as any of my neighbors, and did it in much less lime — 1 mean I got all my harvesting done two or three weeks before many others. This is accomplished in a great measure by redeeming time ; rising be- tween 3 and 4 o'clock in the morning ; then if the day be very suKry and hot, 1 lie by iVom 12 to 3, and then 1 feel refreshed and able to go to work until quite dark — this 1 call ' ivorking it right.'' Whereas, should I lay in bed until the sun be up and shuine me, haunt the taverns at night, drink too much whiskey, but half ma- nure, half plough, half plant, half nurse, half harvest, and do every thing else by halves, I surely should not ' li.-ork it right,'' nor get half a crop. I shall now conclude, by giving you, for fur- ther consideration, a few excellent observations from a wiser head, perhaps, than my own, which I shall endeavour to improve for myself, and hope every brother former will do so likewise, viz ; — I often say to myself, what a pity it is our farmers do not work it right. When I see a man turn his cattle into the road to run at large, and waste their dung, on a winter's day, I say this man docs not -jsork it right. Ten loads of good manure, at least, is lost in a season, by this slov- enly practice — and all for what? For nothing indeed but to ruin his farm. So, v/hen 1 see cattle late in the fall, or early in the spring, in a meadow or mowing field, poaching the soil, and breaking the grass roots, 1 say to myself, this man does not work it right. So when 1 see a barn yard, with a drain to it, I say the owner does not work it right, for how easy is it to make a yard hollow, or lo\«£st ns NEW ENGLAND FARMER. in the niuldlc, to receive the urme and all the wash of the sides, which will be thus kept thy for the cattle. The wash and urine of the yard, mixed with any kind of earth, or putrid straw, is excellent manure ; yd how much do our farmers lose by neglectinj^ these things ; — in fact, they do not work it right. When I sue a firmer, often goin, many persons think that these insects live from one I gardeners sometimes make use of this as a halt to dc- year to another, and pass the winter in the earth to ] stroy them. They plant a row of lettuce plants l)c- protect them from the cold. These worms, though they are always white, yet are sometimes found varying, more or less, wholly, or in part, into a bluish tint, produced by the internal parts, seen through the transparent skin. These scarabei are seen during the whole summer, especially towards the end of May, and in June, eying in the evening towards sun-set, particularly whire thi-re are trees. They seem to be a heedless kind of 1 animal, that fly briskly without regarding much where they go, and therefore become extremely troublesome to persons who walk in places that they frequent, by their darting frequently, and with force, upon the face and other parts of the body, whicli, when naked, prove very teasing. They eat the leaves of most species of forest trees, as well as fruit trees. In the United Provinces of the Low Countries, the children amuse themselves by attaching a long thread to one of the hinder feet, and leave them thus to fly without suffe-ring them to escape ; they fly then com- monly round, describing a circle in the air ; from which some tliink they have obtained the name oCmolinacirs, T I without ever allowing it to come within the reach of T'l iour cognizance. Cabbages, cauliflowers, and strawberries, are all much relished by the grub, hut lettuce seems to be its it would probably spoil thiir appetites, and lime water would, moreover, in many instances, be useful as a manure. tween the rows of strawberries. In that case the grub attacks the lettuce. The gardener, aware of this, ex- amines his plants with care each day, going along the rows with a trowel in his hand, and wherever he sees the leaves falling, he knows that the enemy is there, and immediately digs up, and destroys the grub. It is thought that the whole race of grubs are some- times destroyid by winter rains ; and wherever irriga- tion takes place, the destruction of the grub must be effected. Ifa stream of water could be spread over the surface of a grass field only for a few days, during any of the winter or spring months, it is supposed that the grubs might thus be drowned in their holes. Dr. Anderson recommends this mode of destroying grubs, in grass lauds which are inftsted with them, especially when it is intended to turn them up to corn, (wheat, rye, &c.) for the mischief grubs do in these circum- stances to the first corn crop is often very great. It might, says Dr. Anderson, even with safety be applied to orchards and wood-Lands ; for these would sustain no damage were not the water continued longer than is necessary for the destruction of the worm.* Dr. Darwin says in Phytologia, sec. xiv, 3, in speak- ing of the Scarabffius Solstitialis, or fern chaffer, " when the Hy is seen to come out in abundance in the summer evenings on grass lands and fallows, it is probable that rolling the ground in the evening might prevent the return into the earth, both of these and of the may- chaffers, to deposit their eggs and thus prevent their future progeny ; or during their grub state, when they exist at the roots of wheat above, or just beneath the siu-face of the soil, perhaps slacked lime might be sprin- kled over the crop in powder, or sea-salt in powder, which might be washed down the stems of corn in a wet day, and destroy the insect, without injuring the vegetable ; or lastly tar water ; all which might bi first tried on a small part of the field ; for as lime is not all of equal purity, it is not all of equal strength or causticity." The same author, in speaking of the white slug in gardens, says, " It has lately been as- set ted, that watering the ground with tar water will destroy them, which may be made by adding a few pounds of tar to a hogshead of water, and well stirring it, without perceptible injury to the tar." I'hytologia, sec. xiv. 3, 5. There is no doubt but common turpentine might an- swer as good a purpose as tar, if made use of in the same way. Infusions of elder are likewise, it is believ- ed, fatal to all sorts of insects. Lime water would be a cheap application, and a quart of quick lime would more than saturate a hogshead of water, for lime can- not be taken up or held in solution in less than about 700 times its weight of water. Any of these liquid substances may be applied to a soil infested with worms, either by a common gardener's watering pot, or by letting the liquid out of a barrel or hogshead, by a pipe communicating with a tube 10 or 12 feet in length, with its ends closed, and bored full of small holes five or six inches apart, and placed either before or behind the wheels of a cart, across, or fastened un- der the body, in such a manner that the liquid may issue through holes and wet the ground equally, as the cart is drawn over it. Or in other words, wet your grounds with lime water, Sec. when the grubs are near the surface, by an apparatus similar to that v/hich is used for wetting the streets of cities in hot and dry weather. If such applications should not kill the worms LATEST FROM EUROPE. An arrival at New York brings intelligence from London to the 22d and Liverpool to the 24th of Sept. The Greeks are proceeding w ith rapid and victorious strides to the achievement of complete independence. They attacked the Turks before Argos on the 23d July, and defeated them, after a furious contest. On the 24th and 25th the Turks were harassed on their retreat by the Grecian sharp-shooters. An obstinate battle at length took place, near Corinth, in which more than 1500 Turks perished. On Hie 6th and 7th of August, likewise, the Turks were defeated with great carnage, 3000 remaining dead on the spot. The number of wounded and prisoners is not known, but two thousand Turkish horses, all their baggage and munitions, to- gether with their military chest were among the fruits of the conquest. Up to the 18th of August, the date of the last accounts, the Greeks were triumphant, and news was every moment expected of the complete de- struction of the Turkish army. In Spain the Constitutional party are successful, and their enemies are submitting or retiring from the scene of action. The Congress of Sovereigns were assembling at Ve- rono, at the date of the last accounts. Nothing favor- able to Greece, it is said, is expected to result from the deliberations of this body. * This account is principalli/ abridged from a paper in the 3d rolumt of Anderson'' s Recreations. I On IMonday last, the election of Representatives to the next Congress, took place in this Slate. In Sxif- folk District, Mr. Webster is elected — in Essit, A'orlh., Air. Nelson — in Middlesex., Mr. Fuller— in A'orfotk, Dr. F.ustis — in Bristol^ Mr. Baylies — in Plipnonlh., Mr. Ho- liart. — In Flampstnre S. Mr. Lathrop is probably elect- ed, and Mr. Allen in Unm/tsltire J^. It is supposed no choice has been made in Essex S. and Worcester J^, and a. Districts. The other Districts in the State not healed from. Rapid Grovth. — The following singular instance of (he rapid growth of an engrafted scion, is worthy of notice, and will be interesting to virtuosos. A Mr. Foster, of Scituate, grafted in his orchard, in May last, an apple tree, which in four months from the time the scion was set, bore an apple which girtetj 6 3-4 inches in circumference. — GazeHe. Mr. Coke, the rich and hospitable English Common- er, has discontinued his Annual Agricultural Festivals, where for so many years he had entertained many hun- dreds of the most distinguished friends of Agriculture, and Practical Farmers of England and of Europe. In a letter to one of his friends in America, he says, he has been compelled to reduce his rents thirty-three and a third per cent, and his tenants are known to be better able, than any others in England, to support the exist- ing burdens on that class of British population. — ibid. Premium offered. — The Emperor of Germany has lately offered a lliousand gold ducats, equal to $2000, to the author, whether native or foreigner, for the best treatise on the construction of water mills. A Velocipede, with two wheels, has been constructed in England, by which a person, with considerable ease, may travel six miles an hour. NATHANIEL DEA¥iBORN. ..EjXGRAVEK, HAS removed to Market Street, No. 33, over Mr. Bailey's Store, West corner building of the stone steps passage way. ty^ Orders for Engraving and Printing Address or Visiting Cards ; and engraving;3 on Wood, Brass, or other metals solicited. Door Plates of any style and price, of Brass, Silver or Silver-pbted. Nov. 2.. 120 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. U.XPRIjVCIPLED ambitiox. BV T. c. rrssEXDEx. Ambition improperly directed, and destitute of principle, is a fruitful source of human mis- ery, and causes most of the calamities of life. Many of its votaries, instead of rendering them- selves notable become notorious, and obtain in- famy in escaping obscurity. They cannot en- dure the idea of gliding silently down the stream of life into the gulf of oblivion, without leaving so much as a bubble or a ripple behind them ; and therefore trouble the waters as much as possible during their passage from time to eter- nity. It is to be feared that there are more men like Eratostratus, who set tire to the tem- ple of Ephesus for no other purpose than to preserve his name from oblivion, than like the "Man of Ross"' who did good without seeking fame, and tound tiiat " One self-approving hour whole years outweighs, " Of stupid starers, aud of loud huzzas." But the man is happier both here and here- nfter, who " .\loii* the cool seqiiester'd vale of life, " Still keeps the noiseless tenor of his way," than he who " wades through slaughter to a throne," and " shuts the gates of mercy on mankind.'" J)r. Darwin, in his elaborate work entitled Zoonomia, treats of An^bition as a disease, and thus describes its symptoms, and method of cure. " Ambition. — A carelessness about the opin- ions of others is said by Xenophon to be the source of impudence ; certainly a proper regard for what others think of us frequently incites us to virtuous actions, and deters ns from vicious ones ; and increases our happiness by eidarging the sphere of our sympathy, and by flattering our vanity. Abstract what others feel, what others think, All pleasures sicken, aud all glories sink Pope. " When this reverie of ambition excites to conquer nations or to enslave them, it has been the source of innumerable wars, and the occa- sion of great devastation of mankind. Ca;sar is reported to have boasted that he had destroy- ed three millions of his enemies, and one mil- lion of his friends. " The works of Homer are supposed to have done great injury to mankind by inspiring a love of military glory. Alexander was said to sleep with them always on his pillow. How like a mad butcher amid a flock of sheep ap- pears the hero of the Iliad, in the following line lines of Mr. Pope, which conclude the twentieth book. His fiery coursers, as the chariot rolls, Tread down whole ranks, and crush out liproc;-' soul.". Dash'd from their hoofs while o'er the dead they fly, Black, bloody drops the sniokin?^ chariot dye : The :,piky wheels through heaps of carnage torf. And thick the groaning axles droppM with gore. High o'er the scene of death Achilles stoolanted from a richer to a poorer soil, do not liourish or be- come so productive as such as are transplanted li iin a poorer to a richer soil. The seeds of apples will not ]>roduce the ii.mo kind of fruit ; that 1 have fully proved^ \'v one experiment. 1 raised in my garden, '"; nil the seeds of one favorite apple, ten frees, liiit after being transplanted in my orchard, svt'w to bear fruit. Not one of them resem- jkd their mother apple, and no two were like jach other. Seven of them produced very Muall sour apples, some white, some striped, • ine yellow, some early, others late. Those ■ven trees I marked for gral'ting. Of the oth- M- three, the largest and most thrifty treepro- luced an excellent, pleasant, long, striped ap- ilc, of good size, very mellow and juicy in au- umn, neither sweet nor sour. The next larg- -l tree produced a red, sweet apple, about the hape and size of the tlat pippin, and will keep n the winter near as well. The other, the iiiallest tree of the ten, which grew the long- 'St time before it produced, bore large, yellow, lat, sweet apples, that weigh about one pound, ind fall ofl" in due time for drying or making ■.ider. 1 have estimated such parts of my orch.trd IS have been planted with trees, without grati- ng, to average about three good and valuable ;inds ol" apples, t'rom every ten trees. I disap- uove of grafting the trees, when small in the lursery, as we may cut ofl' better t'ruit than we nscrt, and perhaps destroy some better and arger kinds than are yet known. i believe in Danvin's ideas, that the different iinds of apples have their certain age, after .vhich they depreciate and expire, and that !;rafting is but an elongation of the same de- ;lining kind of tree — especially as the Vaiuh- :eer that used to be so large and line since my ■emembrance is now extinct, in the place of my lativity, with a bitter rot, and the Jlat ■pippens. Rhode Island greenmgs, and blue prarinaiiis^ are ."cry much depreciated in size and llavor. At an early period of life, 1 was instructed in .he practice of grafting, and thought 1 under- itood it perfectly, but a circumstance took place I'o convince me to the contrary, b}' some impor- !ant facts in that art that should be generally inown. Thirty-five years ago, last winter, 1 was trav- ailing in the ujiper part of Maryland, near the iianks of Potomac river, and was informed thai they had a curious old German doctor, a man iof great science, that had paid much attentioi. Ito orcharding ; — that he liad made between ^''Jt ind 300 acres of grat"ted orchard, and made vas. quantities ot cider all winter to sup[)ly the cities of Baltimore and Alexandria, besides (ieedmt;' I and fattening a large stock of creatures. I turn- j ed out of the road and went to see him, and was surprised, as I roile to the door, to hear him toll his negro, in German, lo give my horse half a bushel of sweet apples. His siiluation was on lime stone land, of a S. W. descent — some very rough — but his Irees appeared to grow well amongst the rocks. In places where the ground suited he irrigated it with lime stone springs, for mowing land. ]li.s orchards were too extensive lor my view. He had a number of hlrgc frame buildings, in which he had vast fjiiantitics of apples gathered lo /Veert-, and said that apples after being frozen made the most and best cider. It wasi a mild thawing time, and he had abundance of peo|i!e making cider. They ground their soft apples under large wooden wheeis, turning in circular trouirhs. On the bods of the presses they bad frames of slats in which they put straw to re- tain the soft pomace. Their presses were lung- beams, say 60 feel, raised and draviu down with levers. As the establishment stood on descend- ing ground the cider ran from the presses in troughs, and passed through several strainers before it entered the casks. He informed me that he had been bred to orcharding in Germany, that he had raised and planted all his trees, and grafted the greater part of them, after they began to bear, if he disliked the fruit. I observed that I thought the season would be too short for grafting so many trees. Me told me that it might be performed any time in the fore part of summer, if a wet growing time, and I would observe the following directions : 1st. Be careful not to loosen the bark of the stock in splitting it ; and the safest way to guard against that is to split the bark with a sharp pointed knife, before the splitting of the stock. 2d. As after the leaves are grown it is not expected to u: as earlv as Cliristma--. No distinction is made between males and females, both being equally objects of rearing, and are both occasionall\ subject to castration, it being a prevailing cus- tom to spay all heifers intended to be fatted al three years old. Among other substitutes for new milk, the method proposed by the duke of Northumber- land is to take one gallon of skimmed milk, and to about a pint of it add a large table spoonful of molasses, stirring it till it is well mixed; then take an ounce of linseed oil cake, finely pulver- ized, and with the hand let it fall gradually in very small quantities into the milk, stirring it in the mean time with a spoon or ladle, unti.1 it bo thoroughly incorporated ; then let the mixture be put into the other part of the milk, and the whole be made about as warm as new milk, when it is first taken from the cow, and in th.it state it is fit for use. The quantity of oil cake powder may from time to time be in- creased as occasion may require, and as the calf becomes inured to the flavor of it. The method of weaning calves is thus pre- scribed by an English writer. The most suita- ble season for that business is the early |iart of the spring, as such calves as are weaned nt a late period seldom attain any great size. Hav- ing a cow suited to the purpose, which drops a calf, let it be suckled in the usual mode, till it hath cnmplcled the third week of its age, when in-uad uf turning it to the cow, it is to be suck- led by thrusting its head into a pail of new milk, and the finger of the person who directs the business is to supjily the place of a teat. .\t first the calf may be rather awkward at sucking the finger, but this will soon become familiar, and alter a while a lock of hay may be substi- tuted for the teat ; and as the calf advances in age it will drink the milk without assistance. .^t the scsLSon when the calf is thus weaned from the teat, it ought to be turned abroad, in the day time, into a small close or orchai-d near thf^ vard, where there is a good bite of grass. As there will, generally, be more than one calf weaned in a season, they will each be company for the other, and become, in a short time, re- conciled to their situation. This pasture should be at some distance from that wherein the dams are turned, and there should be neither ponds nor ditches, nor any other annoyance, which m:'.y endanger the lives of these youthful ani- mals ; and in order to habituate them still more to their pasture, their pottage sliould be carried clean to them at their feeding hours. For the lirst month or six weeks the calves ought, every nii^ht, to be brought out of the meadow and ludged in pens : but after this time, they may le left in their pasture, as well in ll;e night season as in the day, and at this time their food may be lowered bv degrees, till it be reduced to water only, for when the calves get to the •ige of twelve or fourteen weeks, they will no longer require the aid of this sustenance, but will be able to satisfy their appetites by gras-' Care, however, must be taken through the sum- mer that they be frequently shil'ted from om pasture to another, in order that they may he kept in good flesh, and enabled to grow with celerity. In the latter part of September Hit calves should be taken into a yard ; and if the\ were allowed the indulgence of a small clo^e by themselves, it would be still belter. And here their taste should be gratified with the best and sweetest hay that can be procured, with an outlet on a dry pasture, where, in fine open weather, they may be permitted to enjoy themselves ; and it would redound greatly to their welfare, if, on the approach of winter, a shed was to be erected for them to repose in during the night, and for shelter in tempestuous days. So essential are warmth and good living to young animals of every description, that the care, which has been taken of them in their early days will be manifest in every state of their future growth. At two years old the heif- er may be suffered to take the male, but it W'Oiild be still better for the cow, and more to NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 123 the interest of the fiirmer, if this was not per- mitted till the animal was three years old. Mr. Beatson, in a useful communication (o the British Board of .'Vgricuilurc, observes, " that the only reason he can assig-n why calf pens should be within the cow-house is, that it saves little trouble to the dairy maid, by having a shorter distance to carry the milk. In general, however, it is a plan not to be recommended, as every person, who has had any experience among- cows must know how naturally and forc- ibly a newly calved cow expresses her attach- ment to her calf; with what care and anxiety, if permitted, she licks it all over, and uses e\e- ry exertion to protect it from injury ; how (he tender calf clings to its affectionate mother, as if sensible that to her alone it can trust for pro- tection; and yet the poor helpless creature is dragged away, and placed, perhaps, within its mother's vie>v, or at least within her hearing, as if on purpose to augment her sufferings. Its doleful cries keep alive the pangs of the un- happy cow ; she struggles to break the chain that binds her fast, and seems restless and un- easy whenever approached. In such a state of agitation it is impossible she can ever feed well, or give that quantity and qualify of milk she would otherwise furnish. Where there are njany cows kept, and perhaps several of them lately calved, a single calf may keep them all in this restless state ; to remedy which the best way is to have the calves al such a distance, or at least so thick a wall between thom that the cows cannot hear their cries. The cow will then soon forget her calf, and will both feed and milk the better for it ; therefore they should be as near as may be without being liable to the above objections. The principal thing to be observed in the construction of calf [icns is the laying of the floor. This should be made of lath or spars, about two inches broad, laid at the distance of an inch from each other upon joists, so as to make the floor one, two or three feet from the ground, as the situation will admit. This not only keeps the calves quite dry, by allowing all the moisture to pass immediately away, but ad- mits fresh air below the bedding, and thereby preventing that unwholesome disagreeable smell too often found among calves. The place below the floor should be frequently denned, as well as the floor itself, whenever it becomes wet or dirty ; but it is not right to al- low the litter to increase to a great thickness, otherwise the moisture will not so easily pass through. Calf-pens are, however, too often made without this sparred floor, and the fresh litter is always laid on the old, till the calves are removed, which is a slovenly practice, and ■not by any means to be recommended. - Dr. Willich's Domestic Encyclopedia states that " in order to make calves fine and fat, the best and most efficacious way is, to keep them as clean as possible, by elevating the coops in such a manner that the sun may not have too great power over them, and to such a height above the level of the ground that their urine may puss off; by giving them fresh litter every day, and by suspending over the coop a large chalk stone so that they can easily lick it. Be- sides this, it is usual to bleed them when they are about a month old, and again juit before they are slaughtered ; which practice contri- butes in a considerable degree to the beauty and whiteness of the flesh, and is therefore more frequently repeated by some persons ; but this is not altogether necessary ; twice lilrodiiig being fully sufficient for that purpose, in the opinion of the most experienced breeders. A MMllOD OF M.tKING GOOD EUTTF.n. FRO.M THK. MII.K OF COWS I'F.P OK TURNIPS. Let the vessels which receive the milk bo kept constantly clean, and well scaltlpd with boiling water. When the milk is brought into the dairy, with every eight quarts mix one quart of boiling water, and then put it u[) to stand for cream. — Hunter's Georgical Essajs. A MKTIIOD OF PRF-Sr.RVING CREAM. Take twelve ounces of white sugar, and as many grains of finely powdered magnesia, and dissolve them in a small quantity of water, over a moderate fire. After the solution has taken place, twelve ounces of new cream should be immediately added, and the whole uniformly mixed, while hot. Let it then gradually cool, and pour it into a bottle, which must be care- fully corked. If kept in a cool place, and not exposed to the air, it may be preserved in a sweet state for several weeks and even months. Domestic Encijclopcdia. now TO SAVE HORSES FROM BARNS ON FIRE. Horses are frequently burnt to death when barns or stables are on fire, owing to the im- possibility of leading or driving them out of the building, while their eyes are dazzled by the blaze. But we are assured that by simply cov- eriu.g the'r eyes with a bag, a coat, or a pocket handkerchief", they may be led out of danger without trouble or difficulty. iMETHOD OF PRESERVING yOUNU PLANTATIONS OF TREF.S FROM EEl.N'G INJURED BY HARES OR RAB- BnS EV WILLIAM PATTEXSON, ESQ. OF lEORDEN, KENT. From tfit Transactions of the Society for the Fncoiir- a»eincnt of Arts, fcc. Hares, rabbits and rats, have a natural antipa- th}' to tar; but tar, though fluid, contracts (when exposed to the sun and air for some time) a great dryness, and a very binding quality ; and, if applied to trees in its natural state, will occa- sion them to be bound. To remove this diffi- culty, tar is of so strong a savour, that a small quantify, mixed with other things, in their na- ture loose and open, will give the whole mix- ture such a degree of its own taste and smell, as will prevent hares, &c. from touching what it is applied to. Take any quantity of tar, and six or seven times as much grease, stirring and mixing them well together ; with this composition brush the stems of young trees, as high as hares, i;c. reach, and it will efi'ccfually prevent their be- ing barked. I believe, if a plantation of ash (which they are very fond of) were made in a rabbit-warren, fiiis mixture would certainly pre- serve it. These animals do great mischief a- mongst flowering shrubs, and are particularly fond of Spanish broom. Scorpion senna, and ev- ergreen Cytisus. I have had those shrubs eaten down to a stump ; but, as the mixture cannot be conveniently applied to them, I have enclos- ed their branches with new far twine, putting it several times round the shrub, which has had the desired effect. Tar twine, by being expos- ed to the air and rain, will lose its smell, conss- (|Uontly must be removed as occasion requires; buf the mixture is always to be preferred, where it can be used. (t^Jjp-It is pi-ol)at)le tliat the abovcmcniioned composi- tion would prcsiTve yonn» trees in nurseries from the depredations of tlie fielil mouse, whicli nri' oflen fatal to young fruit trees in many parts of tlie United S^tates. Ed. J^. E. Farmer. SCAB IN SIIEF.P. Everv part of a sheep's body is liable to be attacked with this disease, which may be radi- cally cured if attended to. It is more obstinate on the Ii])S and nose, than any where else, be- cause the animal rubs those parts while eating. The cheapest and simplest remedy, is an oint- ment composed of three parts of grease to one of turpentine. FISH, FOOD FOR SIIEF.P. It is a fact, though not generally known, that sheep will greedily eat any kind of salted fisji, whether dry or pickled, although dry seem the most suitable for tlirm; and it is found by ex- perience that sheep that have as much fish as they can oat are always healthy, have guod lambs, and do not loose their wool ; and re- quire much less other food. It is not expected that farmers remote from the sea-shore can af- ford their sheep as much fish as they would eat; but, if they give them fish instead of giv- ing them salt, they will find a great advantage Smoked Alcwives and Herrings are most con- venient for them ; larger fish should be cut or broken in small pieces. The cheapest kinds of fish, such as scale of all kinds, broken, refuse, and even those that are partly damaged, if they are only salt, will answer the purpose. It is generally the case with herring catch- ers that they are obliged to cull out and throw away great numbers, sometimes half they take, because they are to bear inspection : such might be salted and smoked or dried in the sun, put up in dry casks, afforded at a low price — by which means, thousands of barrels might be sa- ved which are now suffered to rot on the shores. TO PRESERVE POTATOES WHICH ARE FROZEiV. Cover them, while frozen, with two or three feet of sand or earth, and let them remain till thawed. The watery part of the potatoe, when converted into ice, occupying a larger space, removes the solid parts to a greater distance from each other, occasioning thereby a partial disor- ganization which, like animal inflammation from cold, will end in putrefaction, unless a low tem- perature is maintained until the solids gradual- ly regain their for.mer powers. — Farmer's Mag. (f^ They may be Uiawed in cold water, wliich will take out the frost without injuring- the vegetables. Ed. JV. E. Farmer. Live constantly in the unshaken belief of the overruling Providence of an infinitely wise and good, as well as Almighty Being ; and prize his tavor above all things. Accustom yourself to temperance, and be master of your passions. Be not too much out of humor with the world, but remember, it is a world of Cod's creating, and however sadly it is marred by wickedness and folly, yet you have found in it more com- forts than calamities, more civilities than af- fronts, more instances of kindness towards you than cruelty. 124 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. From the Christian JiigisUr of.Xorcmber 1. GARDINER LYCHUM. Mr. F.BiTOR — I ob'enerl in the Hallowcll Gazette of the 12th ult. an address to the public Irom th(f Trustees of (he Gardiner Lyceum. The knowledge that such an institution is about to be established, can- not be too widely diffused. That our colleges are use- ful and necessary to those who intend to pursue one of the learned professions cannot be denied ; but they are by no means calculated to supply that particular Uir.d of knowledge which is necessary to the farmer and Mechanic. The utility of an institution like the Lyceum will be best shown by a few extracts from the address. The small number of m?ch;inics acqiininted with tliose principles of natural philo30|ihy, up- on which the successful o[)cration of their arts depend, has been long a subject of regret. Art- ists, it is true, are found in various de|>arttnents, who, b}- means of uncommon natural talents, arc able to acquire the knowledge of those scientific principles, which are most needful to them ; but those to whom nature has been less liberal, can only execute in the way in which llicy have been taught, and while they adopt the rules and recipes of their predecessors, they arc oldlged to perform much unnecessary labor, because they are unable to distinguish the essential from the accidcnlal parts of their processes. And ] even those of superior endowments are obliged i to spend much labor in acquiring jirinciples, which are among the first rudiments of a regu- lar cduration. jVor have our farmers hitherto had that knowledge which \vould enable them to improve the powers of their soil, or the machines necessary for cultivating it, and pre- paring their produce for the market. The knowledge necessary for these descriptions of persons is confined to colleges ; but science is there taught, not to persons who are to make a practical use of it in after life, but as part of a course of general education to those who are destined for the liberal professions. The details ■of the practical a|)plication of science to the particular arts would be altogether inconsistent ivith the objects of these institutions. Neither could those who are to sup|)ort themselves by manual labor, spare the time or meet the ex- pense of a collegiate course, with its long train ftf preparatory studir,s, particularly when a large part of that course would not only be useless, but would serve to give them a distate for their future pursuits in life. The practical utility of science cannot be doubted, in an age where its investigations have produced such astonishing improvements as in the |)resent. There is scarcely an art which bas not directly or indirectly received from it iniiioilant services; for science must necessarily be the foundation of every art. Not that the arts orig.natc in the speculations of the philoso- phi'r, or cannot be practised without an ac- «]uaintance with science. On the contrary they frequently owe their beginning to accident ; and the knowledge of the art is but the know- ledge of a few insulated facts. These fact';, ob- served by the man of science, lead him to an investigation of their nature, and the laws ac- cording to which they are produced. He dis- covers what is necessary and what is accidental in the process, and thus infers an easier and cheaper mode of arriving at the same result. Chemistry, as a science, has scarcely existed half a century, and yet no science can so proud- ly boast its contr.liution to the arts. To many trades, it is absolutely necessary, and to almost all, highly beneficial. The lanncr, the bleach- er, the dyer, the druggist, (he manulacturcr of pot and pearl ashes, of soap, of copjieras, and all the salts of commerce, of spirituous and fermented liquors; all these, and very many more, find their arts deiiendent upon chemical processes. The mason needs chemistry to mix properly the ingredients of his mortar, the blacksmith to temper his edged tools, and even the baker to ferment his bread. It is true, these arts may be, and are successfully practis- ed by attentive and intelligent persons, igno- rant of science; but a knowledge of chctnistry would enable men of an inferior class of mind to become skilful ; would make the success of all more certain ; enable them to investigate the causes of occasional failures, and to guard against their recurrence. Agriculture, too, depends much upon chemis- try. It is the business of this science to inves- tigate the nature of soils, the causes of their fertility or barrenness, to ascertain the compo- sition of manure, and the kind best suited to give fruiti'nlness to each kind of soil. The experi- ence of Lavoisier, who in a few years doubled his crops, is sufficient to prove the utility of chemistry, when applied to the cultivation of the earth. With a view to furnish to farmers and mechan- ics the education here represented as so useful, the Gardaier Lyceum has been established ; and the course of study will be arranged with a ])ar- ticular reference to the wants of those classes, for whose particular benefit it is designed. As soon as a suitable apparatus can be procured, lectures will be given upon the sciences there taught; and the application of those sciences to the arts will be illustrated as fully as the na- ture of the lectures will admit. As fast as the lundsofthe institution will allow, models will be procured of the best machines employed in the useful arts. Specimens will likewise be col- lected of the natural productions of the country, as opportunity offers; and they will be deposit- ed in a cabinet in the Lyceum. Candidates for admission to the Lyceum will be required to produce certificates of good mor- al character, and will be examined in the (bur fundamental operations of arithmetic : addition, subtraction, multiplication and division, both up- on simple and comjiound numbers, and in re- duction. It is also very desirable that English Grammar should be understood by those enter- ing the Lyceum ; and although the trustees do not at present consider it as an indispensable re- quisite, yet they hope it will have been studied by persons applying lor admission. The studies in the Lyceum will be — For the first year — .\rithmetic. Algebra, Geom- etry, Trigonometry, Mensuration of Surfaces and Solids, and Book-Keeping. In the second year — Surveying, Navigation. Mechanics, Hydrostatics, Pneumatics, and Chcmislry. No student will be required to attend to all the branches of instruction for the second year, but only those which are best adapted to his fu- ture wants. He will also be instructed in the practical application of the knowledge thus ac- quired to the particular art which he is to ])rac- tice. Two years will complete what is deem- ed an essential course ; but instruction will be afforded to those who wish to continue their studies another year. The studies of the third year will be — Other branches of Natural Philosoiihy, the Iiigh- er branches of Mathematics, Natural Historv, and the first volume of Stewart's Philosophy of the Mind. There will be regular exercises in English composition ; and each Monday morning all the clas-ics will be instructed in the principles of natural and revealed religion. The trustees consider (he location of the Lyceum in the town of Gardiner as peculiarlv fortunate, from its central position, on a navi- gable river, in a populous neighbourhood and (ertile country, where commerce is continually extending, and in a town possessing uncommon- ly fine mill jjrivileges, ami which already offers to the student in mechanics the exhibition of a •rreatcr variety of machinery moved by water than can be found in any other town in the state.'' [The Lyceum was incorporated at (he last ses- sion of the Legislature. The trustees are about erecting a stone edifice for the accommodation of the students, and the institution will go into operation some time in January next, under the superintendance of the Rev. Benjamin Hale.] "•The trustees conclude their a.idress wi(' expressing their confidence, as they arc enga^ ed in an object calculated to meet the wants oi a state which possesses all the requisites for be- coming great, and distinguished in agriculture, manufactures, and commerce, that they shall not want the support and encouragement of the public. They are engagad in no private enter- prise. They expect to profit no particular class of men, but to aid those who form the bone and sinew and muscle of the body politic. They aim at the public good, and hope for the public patronage." F. From the National iEgis. MINERALOGICAL No. \. The objects of an enlightened system of air- riculture are philosophical, so far only as they follow nature. Art may plant, industry may ivatcr, but nature gives the increase. The |i!ough and the cart may have been used, ac- cording to the best modes of improvement, and \ct the tracts of land on which they have been I mployed, may produce but miserable crop=. We seldom have the charity to attribute the sterility of farms, to any thing but the indolence • oi the proprietor; when, perhaps, the true cause i* in the nature of the soil itself. The bus. Iiaiuiman may waste the sweat of his brow, and the toil of bis hands tor years, by perseverance in the same course which, with his neighbour.s, ' gi\c3 a rich reward. To rcmeily any evil, it is first necessary to seek out its cause. Now, a Kttle of that knowledge derived from books, a- g.iin^l which a prejudice ha« been so unreason- ably entertained, would inform the farmer that the reason why his crops were not as good as another's, must be, that he did not adapt the plants to their proper soil. He would learn (hat the same labour which has been bestowed with- out benefit, would, if properly directed, have lilled his barns ^vith abundant harvests, and con- verted his barren plains into a garden. How far the same laws regulate vegetable ami animal economy, has not been exactly de- Icrmined. Certain it is, that there is an analo- gy iu llie laws, which regulate both kingdctns. . i\EW ENGLAND FARMER. 125 11 the stock of the hiisharnimati requires feed- 1 »g, and as he would not s^ivc his oxen sulphiirir cid for drink, or arsenic for a baiting, neither lould he treat his field of rye or v.hcnt in the imp manner. Those poisons which are most eleterious, belong to the clitsses of Minerals. .11 the metals which are so nuincroiis and so ■idely disseminated, are highly prejudicial to iiimal life, and that they are injurious to plants. 1,1V be inferred from the facts, that, districts in Inch mining is pursued to the greatest advan- r,'e, where the greatest wealth abounds in the . iMim of the earth, are barren and sterile on the J r face. It is an hypothesis now generally received by rilors, that diflcrcnt plants, require different .lunshment. If the growth of the forest is suc- eeded, not by the same tree, but by a species otally difl'ereut iVom the former occupant of the pot, it is believed to be, from a wise provision shrub. If the food necessary for the Rye be exhausted by a single crop, it would bo folly to ex[)ect a second to thrive on the same liild. If jiropcrties noxious to the Rye, arc beneficial lo the Indian Corn, then, the commonly practised succession, which placed that grain before the other, is founded on sound reason. It is true, that experiment has not, as yet, rendered these princi|)lcs "•doubly sure;" but this should only be an incentive, urging the curious to investiga- tions so important to the good management ol' rural concerns. Men who have not been accustomed to sci- entific |)ursuifs, are usually frightened and dis- courageii, bv their apparent abstruseness and difficulty. To such, abstract studies must be di- vested of some of their rigor, or they will nev- er be i)ur?uaded to follow them. It cannot be expected, nor is it wished that the intelligent, practical farmers of the country should waste fNature,' requiring that the plant whose pecu-j I'lC'r li'"e, and perplex their minds, with deep iar food was consumed, should seek a more fa- 1 '"quizes into Mineralogy, or be able to take orable situation. Most persons who are obser- '"-'"k with the ^^erne^s, the Hauys and Cleave- - - ■ ' lands, who have adorned and improved that de- partment of knowledge. But it is desirable that hey should be acquainted with so much of it, as ant of the phenomena exhibited around them, n i^t have remarked the daily changes taking liace in the growth of our forests. The loftv which at one time formed the most mi- 'o l-e able to distinguish the several mineral pro- ncrous variety of our timber trees, have almost hsappeared, and instead of them, the oak and he walnut have sprung up and occupy their ilaces in the woods. The explanation of this act is not difficult upon the theory to which we lave alluded. Let us suppose a soil, constituted if resinou-, nitrous, and alkaline earths. If the esinous partcies existing in the soil are the food if the Pine and necessary to its life and vegeta- ion it. is evident that where these particles shall lave been exhausted by the continual draughts nade upon them, for the supply of so many oots and branches, the individual can no longer ;xist.* If young trees of the same species should •ise from the seeds deposited near the parent runk, they must soon perish, from the want of he support essential lo their healthy state. — The so.l according to the supposition still con- ains nitrous and alkaline particles. Assuming, hat the lirst of these, are the proper nourish- ■nent of the Walnut, that tree will flourish upon ;be spot where the Pine once stood, until these :»re exhausted, when it must share the fate of its predecessor. Two of the constituent parts are ductions of their lands and be acquainted with their several properties. The practical agri- culturist, is ignorant of many sources of reve- nue which he might possess. His lands may contain treasures, of which he has never dreamt. Mis plough daily turns up substances, which would be valuable, were he only acquainted with their worth. Those tracts which are parched by the summer sun, and which, to his eye, are sterile and barren, may contain hid in their bo- som, mines and metals which would am|)ly re- (lay the toil and expense of exploring them. In recommending Mineralogy to attention in its connection with agriculture, it will be proper to state the grounds of the faith that is in us, of its usefulness. This shall be attempted in a subsequent number. A FARMER. From tlie Hallowell Advocate. In a late Advocate was published a new Rule for gnagings casks, given by S.\muel Preston, Esq. of .Stockport, Pennsylvania. This rule was first published in the A'ew England Farmer, and useful to the is recommended by its author as aow consumed, on the third the Oak may subsist farmer in ascertaining the quantity of cider he [>nd strike its roots deep and shoot its branches Ljakcj^ nn,] exceeds in accuracy and brevity high. This exemplification is selected as a fa- ^„y pt^or rule before employed. The rule is miliar one. The application is obvious to other "" examples. It shows the close connection that should subsist, between the practical and the sci- entific man. It evinces conclusively the benefi- cial results that will ailcnd the prosecution of Chemical and Mineralogical jiursuits. If the wheat is blasted, or its produce be light and ill- conditioned, the fault is more likely lo be found in some quality of the soil prejudicial to that grain, than in some harmless insect or innocent *J^o!e by the Editor of the K. E. Farmer. — Rf vinous particles are formed iu plants during the process of vegetation, being extracted from hydrogen, one of the chemical constituents of water. " All kinds of vege- tables, when assisted by the rays of the sun^ hare the power of decomposing water ; during which decompo- sition the hydrogen is absorbed, and goes to the forma- tion of oil and resin in the vegetable." Part;a' Chcvvsal Catechism, p. 54, lO^ft Ed. as folloivs : — 1. Multiply the ineaii diameter of the bung and head diameter by itself. 2. Multiply the product by the length of the cask. 3. Multiply that product by 34. 4. Strike off four decimals, and you will have the true contents in gallons and decimal parts of a gallon. The admeasurompnts are to be taken in in- ches and tenths of inches. The author of this rule gives no explanation of itf but calls upon the mathematical student to give an explanation or demonstration of it. As the reasons of all parts of the rule may not be readily hit upon, and to know the ration- ale on which it is founded may be gratifying to those who may hapjien to make use of the rule, the following explanation is given, adapted to any commoD uuderstandmg. As necessary to the cxphui.:!!c:j of the rule, wc premise the following principles — to obtain the cubic or solid contents of a regular body, you must first get the superficial contents of a base of it. For example, to obtain the cubic conlenls of a (lanilleiopipcdon, or, in other words, of a square stick of timber of equal si;'.e from end lo end, you first gel the superficial contents of one end by multipl\ing one fide of the square into itself; then multiply the super- ficies of the end by the length of the slick, anil you will have the cubic contents in the same denomination of measure as you have employed in the previous work. If the stick be of une- qual dimensions, you must take the mean of iho diameters in different parts, and from this mean diameter obtain a mean superficies, and multiply this superficies by the length of the stick for the solid contents. To apply these principles to the first step in the above rule. A ca>k, being a cylinder cf unequal diameter, you will fir.st lake the mean of bung and head diameter for the side of a square, equal to said mean diameter. ^ ou then multiply this mean diameter into itself, and this gives vou the superficial contents of a square made by the mean diameter. Then the 2nd step in the rule, viz. multiplying this superficies by the length of the cask, gives you the solid contents of a parallelopipedon (of which the form of a square stick of timber is an example) whose base or end is a square of the mean dia- meter of the cask, and of the same length as the cask. The reason of the 3d step in the rule is not so apparent as the preceding steps, and requires a more particular explanation — and as the 3d and 4th stejis are so connected in principle aa to be incapable of explanation separately, we shall consider them together. It must be recollected that the process thus fir explained, has given us the solid or cubic contents of a square stick of timber, whose di- ameter is equal to the mean diameter of the cask whose contents are to be ascertained, and whose length is the length of that cask ; and that the object to be obtained by the 3d and 4lh steps is to get the cubic contents or capacity of the cask in gallons and decimal parts thereof. Now it is evident from inspection that a square stick of timber, whose diameter is the mean di- ameter of the cask and whose length is the same must be greater in solid contents than the cy- linder whose diameter and length is the same. Then wc must reduce the contents of the square stick of timber already obtained to those of the cylinder of the same diameter and length — that is, of a cylinder whose diameter is the mean di- ameter of the cask. Now the cubic contents of Ihe cylinder and the square stick have the same proportion to each other as the superficies of their ends. viz. the circle and square, their di- ameters being the same. The superficial con- tents of a circle are to the contents of a square whose side is equal to the diameter of the cir- cle as "7854 decimals to unity. Now then, we want to reduce the contents of the square stick to those of the cylinder. Therefore multiply the product of the 2d step by '78o4 decimals and cut off four decimals in the product, which is the same thing as to multiply by tV„Voi "I's being the vulgar form of that decimal; as in a vulgar fraction, you always in multiplication multiply by the numerator, and divide by the 126 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. denominator. This done, you would havn flic cubic contents ot' a cylinder equal to the cask in cubic inches, 'i'o bring this dcuomiiiation into gallons, it would be necessary to divide by the number C:51, this being the number ot cubic in- ches in a Wine oallon. — But to save this long process of multiplication and division, adopt this rule, viz. t'> mxdliply h\j the Quotient of a multi- plier divided btj l!ie diiisor by a7iic/i tite product prnduccd by such multiplier is proposed to be di- vided, and you xiill have the same result. Now iW'is the Quotient ot 7854 divided by 2."^!. Tliereroro multiplying by 34 produces the same result as to multiply by "7854 and di- viding by 2;M — taking care in the product to cut ofi as many decimals as there are in the multi- plier '780 1. And these are the reasous lor the 3d and 4th steps otMhe rule. And the result is the contents of the cask in gallons and decimal parts Ihorcof — Thus we have the reasons of the rule. HUD. ALIA.S 4 BBLS. Fro^n llift Amprican Farmer. TO CURE L AC o:S.— Virginia vs. Burlington. llichmond Co. (Va.) Nor. 24, 18.11. Mr.. SKiKXF.r, — Having seen in the 20th No. of the 3d Vol. of your American Farmer, a refusal of oa^who has been specially called on to com- mOTTcatc his knowledge or mode of curing Bur- lington hams, 1 caimot longer refrain from giving .such information as 1 posse??, iu curing hams ac- cording to our Virginia mode, as practised by me lor many years, and which on trial 1 am induced to believe, will be found fully equal, if not su- perior, to the Burlington, or even the celebrated Westphalia. This I do with pleasure, having no secret to preserve, being no " trucker or trad- er." My practice is as follows: first salt the pork by giving it a jjrctty good salting, and pack it away on boards or planks, with a slope sutficient to let the brine run oH". In this situation it lies ten or twelve days, when it is taken up, and each piece wiped dry, with a coarse cloth, and to each ham is added a Iicaping tea spoonful of the best chrystalizcd salt pctre, by sprinkling over it, and rubbing it well in with the hand. It is then re-salted again, and packed away on planks or boards, laid horizontally, or in tight casks, if -.ou have them convenient, ;is it may then be an •idvantage to retain or preserve all the brine ;.ou can: whereas the first brine I have found t'rom experience to be of great injury, as it rends to putrescence, and should by no means be reabsorbed by the meat laying in it after be- ing extracted by (he salt ; as 1 conceive it to be 'hat which produces the bugs and skippers in the mrst after it has been smoked. The lime ■jf putting on the salt-petre is of much more im- po." mcc than i* suppo-ed by those who have not ^nndo the trial, lor ii'pnt on at the first salting, :lie meat is always dry, hard, and too salt; but why it has this eifect, i am not chymist enough to determine. On giving the meat a second salt- ing 1 add to the salt as much brown sugar or molasses as will moisten or damp it, and as much ')f the common or red pepper as will give the salt quite a red appearance. The pods are first dried beliarc a lire or on a griddle, and then [lounded tolerably fine in a mortar. The meat then lies about 5 or G weeks when each piece should be rubbed well with hickory ashes, and hung u[) to smoke with tlie hociv downivards, which pr->vcuts its dripping and thereby retains Its juices. The Liverpool sack-salt is what I have generally used, and I think it is much to be preferred to any other. The smoke fs generally made from chips raked u[i from the wood-[)ile, with a little of the dust, dotted, or rotten wood with it, to pre- vent a blaze or cle:ir tire, and too great a heat, saw dust of hickory or oak is still better to make the smoke, to which is added two or three pods of the red pepper each d.ay. After it is suflicicntly smoked, which it will be in live or six weeks, if regularly attended to, it IS taken down and packed away in casks or brtics, with hickory a-hes, covering the meat entirely with them, and between each layer is put some thin slips of lath or boards to prevent each layer of meat pressing down and touch- ing each other, and in the course of the summer it is taken out and sunned once or twice. If it is intended lor exportation, bran is the tiling to pack it in, for shipping, especially if it is intended for a southern market. By this mode of curing my bacon has got the reputation (by those who have cat of it,) to be equal if not superior to any they have ever tasted. But I concur with. Mr Coxe, the writer in your 20th No. of the third Vol. that " a great deal depends upon the nature of the flesh of the sev- eral breeds of hogs" and the manner of raising and feeding. From the experience which I have had 1 think a cross of one-fourth of the Chinese, on our common stock, which is a mix- ture of the English breed including the i'arkin- son, which we have among us, is the most del- icate in flavour and taste, and easier to be rais- ed and kept fat, consuming less grain. The meat of those which are sufTcred to feed in the fields and woods, with a little feeding w ith grain until they are put up to fatten, are far su])erior to those which are raised in the sty, and fed on grain and slops, as is the northern custom. — Their meat is much larger and co.irser than ours, and may answer very well for s:>lling and barreling up as pork, but by no means ansivers as well for bacon, being too coarse and strong in flavour. The manner in which our hogs are r.iisod and fed, and their size, I consider the [)rincipal reason why our \'irginia hams have been so much approved of, both in this country and in Eurojic. I have tried various ways to laitcn hogs, after they have been put up fur close fatting, but have never found any thing to ecpial Indian corner meal; turnips, ])otatoes, peas, pumpkins &:c. will do very well when they arc first jnit up, but must be let"t off some weeks before they are killed, in order to harden their fat, and give it a superior flavour, by using In- dian corn alone, with a little salt water, or a salt herring once or twice a week. To make bacon of the most delicate flavour, tiie hogs should not exceed IGOlbs. in weight, nor 21 mouths in age, and it is for this reason, and the great economy in raising and feeding, as well as preventing their becoming mischiev- ous and troublesome on a farm, that I ajiprove of Col. Taylor's system of killing every hog on the farm every ^ear that is ten months old and upwards, except the breeders. 1 have followed this practice lor about seven years, and have found a considerable prolit in it as hogs kept over two winters, are very un[)rolitable, and their llesh by no means as delicate and sweet. Hogs from 10 to 21 months old, with a little more than the ordinary keeping with us (which is very ordinary indeed, as we generally leav them much to prog and shift for themselves will weigh from 120 to 180 lbs. and the sweel est and most delicate flavoured hams ivill not b found to exceed from 10 to 15 lbs. in weiffh even of hogs of their age, and when older the are much coarser and less savourv. These, Mr. Skinner, are ray ideas, obtainei from experience and thrown together in a ver' home-spun manner, and should they on trial b< found to please the palates of otliers and bi generally adopted by them, 1 may be benelittec instead of injured, as was apprehended by ; Burlington dealer, for as I sometimes travel Iron home, and am fond of good bacon, I may th( oftencr get a cut of ham after my own mode o curing. And with very great respect, and mi sincere wishes for your success in your verj useful paper, I am your most obedient, JNO. DARBY. THE FARMER. BosTo.v .—s.iTURrxiY, ^■or. le, \s-2-2. .iDV-A.-NTAGES OF T.\KING AND PATRONlZliNt THE iNEW ENGLAND FARMER. " Tiicre is that ■svithhohleth more than is ?no ■ i but it tcndeth to poverty.''' — This was a wise sn ing of the wisest of men. We trust, however J that our agricultural brethren of New Englanr \ do not intenil to give practical comments on tli text by withholding patronage from a pap. , devoted almost entirely and exclusively to thei i interests. This would be to lose dollars in sa^ ing cents; and to economize about as unprofita biy as he docs who but half manures his lanl or allows but half the requisite quantity of sect i when he sows his wheat, rye, clover, &.c. I It is very true that many farmers, whom wc should be happy to enrol on the list of our siilj scribers, may have a very good knowledge u their business, derived principally from espc rience ; and although Dr. Franklin declared ex pcrience was a dear schoolmaster, yet it mu=; be allowed that the said experience gives pret- ty thorough going lessons, and brings them home to men's business and bosoms in such a manner that its admonitions are not easily for, gotten. Dr. Franklin likewise said, in sub- stance, that those persons who would learn no- thing except what they were taught by experi- ence, were fools.* Now this is a hard name, i which we hope will never be correctly applied to any individual farmer, at least within the compass of the circulation of our newspaper. But, the cheapest Tjvay to gain knowledge is to taki. advantage of the experience of others ; and he who refuses to be taught by the experienee of others, if not a fool, is certainly not so wise as he might he. Now the New England Farmer is intended to be a record of the crpcriencc of hus- bandmen in every branch of agriculture and do- mestic economy. That there will be faults and * We bcbcTC Dr. Franklin's adage iras, '• Experi- ence 13 a dear school, but fools will learn in uo ether." NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 12: laccuracies in this record is to be expected as jng as error is one of the attributes of hutnan- y. But we believe that we shall be able to ive in this work more valuable information Dlating to the most useful and imijortant of the rts, as well as the most extensive and noble of le sciences, than can possibly be obtained at 3 cheap a rate from any other source of agri- ultural knowledge. In making this assertion fe hope not to be accused of arrogance. The Iditor claims no merit but that which arises ■om industry and good intentions. But if we lithfully avail ourselves of the sources of in- Drmation within our reach, and make a good sc of the local advantages which Boston affords or obtaining the publications of dilTerent socie- ies and individuals both in Europe and the U, itates, our paper cannot fail to prove an acqui- Jilion to any person who is engaged in agricul- ~ lire or its kindred arts. Indeed the recipes, - conomical processes, &c. must make it a valu- Mc family book, and it not exactly a '■ Cook's )raclc," it would be at least a good Housc- ,. ( per"s Companion, and in some instances it ,av aspire to the honor of being a " Young armer's Guide." The New England Farmer, it should be rc- ollected, is not an advertising paper, and as it - often necessary to give engravings, which re expensive, prompt payment, and a pretty ii'i^e list of subscribers are indispensable requi- .1' s to its existence. It is moreover a very "•'.ip paper. We give a subscriber, for two 1 an half dollars, more matter than he could ; I'.n in almost any other recently printed 1; [the New England Farmer may be con- li-red a book, printed in weekly numbers] for ,11 or twelve dollars. We not only give a great quantity of matter, a proportion to the price of our paper, but the inality is ex.ictly that which must prove of the greatest utility to a farmer and his family. — iVith regard to the mode in which it has hith- rto been conducted it behoves us to say but ,, ittlc. If we should speak favorably of our own !(, abors we should be guilty of boasting ; and if j]j ive should lament our deiiciencies we might m^siblv be accused of affecting a degree of hu- iility which we do not feel. We have been , o fortunate as to procure the approbation of he Oihcers of the Massachusetts Agricultural ciety, which we consider as the best reward iiur p.ast exertions, and the highest stimulus to give articles from the most approved authors j land Farmer, i< not only derived from high au- relatin"- to the diseases of cattle, horses, swine, thority, but is applicable in every case desig- sheep, SiC. We may thus enable '^T subscri- bers, no doubt, in many instances, to save valu- able animals, when attacked by disease. This may be the more advisable on account of our country's containing very few Farriers, or Ve- terinary Surgeons by profession. Every farmer must, in many parts of New England, be his own cattle-doctor, and it is hoped no farmer will take amiss some directions relative tn a science of such indisputable, and almost indispensable utility. We hope in the present volume to in- corporate some complete treatise on this sub- ject, and shall take the advice of some scientific friends, as well as exercise our own judgment in selecting for republication, some work which will be plain, practical, and have no tendency to mislead, or to sanction dangerous or errone- ous practice. Some of our friends have solicited from us, information relative to various topics, connected with agricultural improvement. Amongst others we are requested to give articles relating to the best mode of laying dozi-n ploughed lands to gi-ass — the best manner of reclaiming salt marshes, and converting them into tillage land — the latest im- provements in the manner of cultivating hops, cur- ing and preparing them for market — the best, least expensive, and most expeditions mode of clearing next) land, covered with timber, and reducing it to its most profitable state of cultivation, ^-c. S,~c. — We shall give our own ideas on some of these subjects, and should be happy in being favored with the opinions of our correspondents on these topics. Perhaps our friend from Stockport, Pa. will give us his ideas relating to some or all of them. We court his correspondence, and ^ct the higher value on his communications because the}' appear to be derived principally from per- sonal observation — are the result of much expe- rience combined with good sense. They are likewise written in that plain and perspicuous style which always ought to be the vehicle of science, although literature may perhaps some- times require something more ornate and arti- ficial. We shall conclude this article with a word or two by way of answer to an objection which we have heard stated acfainst some of the matter in the New England Farmer, and indeed against any precise or definite rules relating to hus bandry. It is said that every man must be gov- nated in the articles. For instance, cattle in Great Britain or Pennsylvania ha\e generally the same or similar disca,ses v.ith those of New England — .steeps to prevent smut in wheat may be the same — ham- may be cured and eggs pre- served by the samj processes, making perhaps a little allowance for a difference in the tem- perature of climates. .\nd if horses will eat mangel wurfzel or sweet apples in England cr Pennsylvania, they will not refuse them in Ma.ssachusetts. ur future efforts. We have no doubt but erned io/e/^ by his own judgment and discretion, itf that, according to the old adage, ■• practice because circumstances so alter cases, soils are J , makes perfect," we shall be able to improve as so different, &,c. that no two farms can be pro- ,1 !we advance in our editorial career, and hope fitably cultivated in the same manner. General rules, however, are useful, although exceptions often occur, and every cultivator is expected to exercise his own judgment, to determine whe- ther a particular case comes within a rule, or forms an exception to that rule. Besides, a great part of the matter found io the New Eng- that our future numbers may better deserve the favor of the public than those which have al- ready been well received by competent judges. We have in contemplation some arrangements relative to our paper, which we conceive may enhance its value. Among others we propose Plumbago, or Black Ltad discovered. — Mr. Cl'.arlcs ,1. Dunbar, of Concord, Mass. has discovered a mine or quarry of Black Liad, in the town of Bristol, N. II. He has exhibited specimens of this substance to I'ro- fessor Dana, of Dartmouth College, Professor Gorham, of Harvard University, and other gentlemen who are versed in the science of KiQeralos:y. They all speak favorably of the specimens. Professor Dana slates that those which were exhibited to him " are of the rerv first qualilu, anil will make excellent pencils, and oth- er articles for which tliis substance is employed. The specimens are far superior to the black lead found in Sutton, or in any other part of the United States, so far as I know — and equal, in every respect, to the cel- ebrated ore of this substance fouud in Burrowdale, ia England." Plumbago, Black Lead, or the Carburet of Iron, has various uses, besides that of making pencils. It is used to rub over wooden machinery to prevent friction — for making crucibles and portable furnaces — it protects iron from rust, and on that account is rubbed on stoves, and various o.mamental cast iron works, such as the fronts of grates, tc. .Murder. — On Saturday morning early, the body 0!' Anthony Kogan, a young man, about 'i7 years of age, was fouud dead in Court-st. hy the city watch ; and the verdict of the inquest on it was, tbiit he came to his death by wounds inflicted by some person unknown. One of the stabs entirely separated the jugular artery, and must have occasioned immediate d< atli. He was a native of Ireland, and in the employ of Dr. JolmsoT), veterinary surgeon. He left his lodgings, in Bangs' alley, about ten oVlock in the evening; and undoubt- edly repaired to the Hill, where he bad a quarrel about three weeks before ; and where he told a person on Friday he intended to go that night, and expected to be attacked by persons he named. Three hundred dcrilars — one hundred by the city, one hundred by Dr. Johnson, and the ether hundred by Mr. Thomas Kennedy — are offered for the detection of the murderer. — Ctntincl. ■\Ve learn with regret, tlu^t the Cotton Mill, in Sut- ton, .Mass. belonging to Mr. Asa Waters and improved by Messrs. Leland, Morse & Co. with the grist mill at- tached thereto, was eiitiri ly destroyed by lire, on the 5th inst. With the buildings a conjiJernble quantity of yarn and cloth was also destroyed. '1 he fire origin- ated in the picking room ; probably from the passinfj of some hard substance through the picker. Loss es- timated at §14,000. — Providence Journal. The Cabinet Factory of Mr. Bradley of Alexandria, has been consumed by fire. Loss 13,000 dollars. Benj. Bussey, Esq. and Amasa Stetson, Esq. have presented 50 dollars each, to the Penobscot Agricultur- al Society, to be expended in Premiums. Harvard Cullege. — The trustees of this institution have appointed Mr. Nvtali, curator of their Botanick Garden and lecturer on Botany in the University. This situation was vacated by the death of Profes.-or Peck. Mr. Nathan Flecher, of Bradford, made, in one day^ working about 24 hours, lu'tlve cider barrels. i-lii NEW ENGLAND FARMER. SELECTED FOR. THE SKvr F.NCI.AND FAR.MtK. RURAL FELICITY. O happy lie ! happiest of mortal men '. Who far rcuiovt d from slavery as from prklr, rears no man's power, nor cringing; wait? to catch The g-racious nothing of a great man's nod : Where the lac'd beggar bustles for a bribe, I'he purchase of liis honor; where deceit, And fraud, and circumvention, drest in smiks. Hold shameful commerce ; and beneath the mask Of friendship and sincerity betray. Him nor tho stately mansion's jildcd pride^ llich with whate'cr the imitative art?. Painting or sculpture yield to charm the eye j A'or shining heaps of massy plate enwrought With curious, costly workmruishlp allure. Tempted nor with the pride nor pomp of power, Nor pageants of ambition, nor the mines Of grasping avarice, nor the poison'd sweets Of pampur'd lu.xury, he plants his foot With firmness on his old paternal fields, And stands unshakeuj There sweet prospects rise Of meadows smiling in their flowery pride, Green hills and dales, and cottages embower'd, The sccoea ol' innocence and calm delight. Wlu re the wild melody of warbling birds, And cool refreshing groves, and murmuring spring's, lav-ite to sacred thought, and lift the mind From low pursuits to meditate on God ! Tu.-n then at length, O turn ye sons of wealth, And ye who seek through life's bewildering maze, To tread the paths of happiness, O turn ! And trace her footsteps in the rural walk ; In those fair scenes of wonder and delight, Where, to the human eye. Omnipotence I'nfolds the map of nature, and displays 'Ihe matchless beauty of created things. Turn to the arts, the useful pleasmg arts Of cultivation ; and those fields improve Your erring fathers have too long despis'd. Turn to that science, which in ancient time The mind of sages and of kings employ'd, Solicitous to learn the ways of God, And read his works in agriculture's school. The following is a translation, by Pr. Darwin, of certain beautiful lines in Virgil's Georgics, on Ingraft- ing. They may form an excellent accompaniment to Mr. Preston's remarks on the same subject, which we have published on the first page of this day's paper. Where cruder juices swell the leafy vein, t^tint the young germ, the tender blossom stain ; On each lopp'd shoot a foster scion bind. Pith press'd to pith, and rind applied to rind, .So shall the trunk with loftier crest ascend, And wide in air robuster arms extend. Nurse the new buds, admire the leaves unknown. And blushinj bend with IVnitasre not its own. From the Old Colony Hemoiial. TO PLYMOTHEUS. Or/ofcer 31, 1822. Sin — With many oth(>rs I hnvc rcid your cotninunications upon tiio cock-clialTer >vitli a great (leal of intcre^st. You arc certainly very I'ortunatc in ynur topic. .Scarcely any one could be sclecleil ol' more moment, or that ought to bo more j)0|uilar. The commendation which you have drawn from the Roxluny " Farmer'' is no mean praise ; and while his busy and po- i;s; the :;Y(i' in this respect ; that he is a good soldier, who cries and tights on, and receives a badge of honor, and is commended in orders at the close of the campaign. Under these circumstances, 'tis impossible that motives to perseverance can be wanting, and i)atriotism, industry, taste and ifttelligence will work wonders any where. In your last communication in the Memorial, I apprehend you were in an error, iu stating that the cock-chafler was then "•just under the sod." But many of them had already descend- ed, probably to avoid the winter. On the 19th inst. with several respectable farmers, and upon a spot where was grass^ (for this grub does not eat every vegetable,) I made an excavation 18 inches deep, and shaving down the sides with a spade, I found full grown grubs in apparent good health, in all grades of descent throughout the whole distance. "• Who forms the phalanx and who leaels the way,"' may long be unknown; but, that they know when to set out and how far to go w ill hardly be called in question. This fact is of importance, you will perceive, only in relation to the time tor the ploughing, which you have well recommended, anel in:iy remove the doubts of the " Fanner" about the descent of this animal. From my first attention to this subject in .Tidy, to the 26th inst. I havelicen constantly puzzled with (inding tn-o sizes, of what I consider the sauie worm iii company. One size, which has uniformly appeared about the same, was not more than one eighth part of that of the full UTOwn. This small sized grub was always at the root of the grass, as hite as the 2t)th inst. though you supposed them to have gone down. I 1 conclude them both to be one species, be- 1 cause they have minutely the same external character. Through a pretty good glass they gave the same color, an equal number of horns — lentacula — incisions — ■spiracles and legs. Four of the latter on each side (instead of i/;/-cc,) as you have been the first to state. Indeed, so minute is the similitude, that two of the spira- cles on two of the shoulders on each side, and at the same place are omitted.* But you say. there ^vere " as many spots (spiracles) as inci- sions." I wish you would review this point. Correctness and not criticism is my object. It seems to be admitted that the cock-chaffer ha?i its prrind, of four or live years — it so, all * In our last No. p. 11!?, plate I, is an engraving, copied from a figure of the cock-chafl"er, given in An- d( rson's Recreations, vol. iii, p. '1'20. The resemblance is very accurate-, excepting that in Doct. Anderson's figure, llirce spiracles or spots are omitted at the end of three of the shoulders, viz. the Cth, 11th and l.jlh, connling from the head of the insect, and including those iu which the legs are inserted. — Ed. N, K. F. the grubs must be of one age, and nearly one size, and from a view of their nature, must pass their several metamorphoses exactly and forev- er in one and the same space and period. From this period, they could no more vary than the elepliant from her two years gestation ; and the progenitor, soon after depositing her eggs, is sup[>03ed to perish ; though more agreeable tc my theology, she only dies. Whence then these small grubs, too numerous to be anomalies .\re we then to believe an annual succession ol cock-chafter progenitors, and where it ends un- known ; or resort to the doctrine of equivocal gencnilion, a doctrine, which ;is yet, has more arguments than disciples. I apprehend the public rightfully expect more from you upon this subject, and I intend to give you some account of several of each size of these grubs, which 1 ha\e/idly committed for trial in May. COLONUS. CURRANT WINK. The samples of wine exhibited at Exeter were of ivhite and red, by Mr. Samuel B. Stev- ens of Exeter; and of red, by Joseph Tilton Esq. of Exeter. The wine from the white cur- rant, for body and flavor, was preferred ; and the cotHmittee awarded to Mr. Stevens the pre- mium. This wine had no distilled spirit mixed with it, and was maile by the tollowing receipts: '• To each gallon of clear juice was added two gallons of water, and to each gallon of the mix- ture was added three and a half pounds of white Havana sugar, and put immeiliately into a clean wine barret ; after it had done fermenting it wa» bunged tight." The red wine of Mr. Stevens was made by the following receipt: To each gallon of clear juice was added two gallons of water, and to each gallon of the mix- ture was added three and a half pounds of good brown sugar, and jiUt into gooel barrels; after it had done fermenting, it was stojiped tight. In February after it was made, one gallon of the best 1th proof Cogniacbranely was aelded to each barrel, and stirred up thoroughly." Both these samples were of the vintage of 1821. Sir. Stevens has the last and present year, made from bis garden live barrels of this uinc. And those who need such inducement to commence the manufacture of it, should be informed that it is an article quick in the mar- ket for cash, at two dollars per gallon. Haverhill Gazette. An Agricultural Society has been organized in the County of Bristol. Samuel Crocker, Esq. President. An Address was delivered on the Oth inst. by Rev. Otis Thompson. VEGETABLE PRODUCTIONS. A Beet raised by Mr. E. N. Chaddock of Han- over, Mass. weighing 21 pounds, and measuring' ;U inches in circumference, was lately present- ed by him to the New England Museum. A beet which beat this was raised in the garden of Leonard Pratt, Esq. of Pembroke, which measures 32 Inches in circumference, and weigh- ed, when it was pulled, 22 pounds, and is men- tioned as being in the Bookstore of Hill and Moore, Concord, N. H. — also in the same Book- store, a radish 21 inches in circumference, rais- ed in the county of Hillsborough. NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 4ied rvtry Saturday, by THOMAS W. SHEl'AKI), lio;;iM!j' liuildiiis:, t'ongrfss Street, Boston ; at »;',', all lur aim. in advanci', or $.;,(JU at ihe close ol' llie j, ar. Vol. I. BOSTON. S4.TUKDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 1822. No. 17. FOR THE NEW E.\(.I.A.\D FAR.Ml.B. [ O.V THE COKSTRCCTIO^' OF GATES. It' larmers were to calculate tlie time employ- [ ■.! ill takint; doivn and putting up bars, compar-| I vitli that of opening and shutting gates, they \ uld, on principles of economy, substitute the atu>r lor the I'ormer; at least wherever they lave frequent occasion to pass. And there arc | ew farmers, who could not make tlieir own ! jates in the leisure of wint<'r. A great propur- lion of gates are not so well constructed as they atiight be. The most common fault is the fixing of the brace to run Irom the top of the hiitti piece of the gate, sloping towards the fore end. Such gates always sag, and their fore ends sci-a])e the ground. Reverse the position of the brace. 1 and then, if the gate be well made of seasoned stutT, it will never sag. The Ibllowing skelcb of such a gate, with the notes subjoined, will render farther description unnecessary. A FARMER. FARM GATE The Har-tree 3i inches thick, and 4i or 5 inches wide. The brace 2i inclies wide and 2 inches thiftk. The upper bar 7 inches wide. The three next bars, 6 inches wide. The lower bar 7 inches wide. The gate may be hung with hinges, or hooks and eye.s, or with one hook aud eye at top, and a gudgeon at the bottom of the har-tree. to turn In a hole, drilled into a hard stone, to be scl cjiose to the foot of the gate pest. In the latter case the lower end of the har-tree should be rounded and receive a ring or narrow band to prevent its splitting. The brace, besides the rive:s, (one through each bar) should further be fas.ened to the bars by nails from the other side. The brace, with its rivets and shoulders, ren- ders it impossible for the uppsr bars to sag ; and the two perpendicular pieces of board k. B. being riveted and nailed to the lower bars, ef- fectually support them. Full inch boards, even of while pine, will be strong enough for the bars; althoigh hard wood or spruce would be preferable. If made of oak, inch boards would be amply suffident. The brace and bar-tree shouU be of white oak, or hard pine. ON THE USES OF THE COJIMCN NETTLE. If we mistake not a patent has been granted in the United States for the excbsive right of making cloth of the nettle. Its u:es, however, appear to have been well known m Europe for many years past. Dr. Anderson :ays (Recrca- lii'iis, vol. Ill, p. 149 ;) '• Some poor women, lishcrinen's wives near Leitli, in Scotland, gath- ered some nettles, steeped them in water like tiux, dressed it, and spun it into coarse yarn, of which a kind of canvas was made. As their liusbamls were in the j)ractice of dredging oys- ters, and sending them to Glasgow in canvas bags, some bags for this purpose were made of the nettle canvas, which was found to answer the purpose much better than that made from henip, as it was much lonjer before it rotted. It should be steeped and dressed in the same way as flax, but it requires to lie longer in wa- ter before it be fit to be dressed. It is harder to the touch than cloth made of hemp or flax.''- J 'r. Anderson, however, doubted whether it could be made profitable to cultivate this plant for use. lie obsQrved that '' unless it he upon a very rich soil, il is a dwarfish plant ; it would therefore be more ditiicult to obtain it in qmm- lil'u's. than either llax or hemp."' Dr. Ander- son thought, likewise, that the steeping of it would require a great degree of accuracy. The medical virtues of the nettle are thus described in an English magazine : " In the form of a strong decoction or infusion taken in the quantity of a pound a day it is a most valua- ble strengthencr of general or partial relaxa- tion. In that of a weak decoction or infusion. It proves an admirable deobstruent in impurities of the blood, and in obstructions of the vessels. And in that of expressed juices, taken by spoon- l"als as the exigency of the case "requires, it is the most powerful styptic I'or internal bleedings known. Externally applied as a fomentation or poidtice, it amazingly discusses inflammation and resolves swellings. In the common sore throat, thus applied, and internally as a gargle,' dependence may be safely put on this common plant."' It is said that the Russians obtain a green dye from the leaves, and a yellow dye from the roots of the nettle. ACORNS FOOD FOR S'iVINE. The hogs that are fed upon the acorns that they gather in the woods of Germany and Po- land, are reckoned to yield the linest bacon of any in Euro[)e ; and it is to this that most peo- ple ascribe the superior excellence of ^Vestldla- !ia hams. So says Dr. Anderson, and farmers who live in the neighborhood of oak forests might easily make experiments which would decide whether acorns are equal to Indian corn, (which we doubt) or what proportionate value ihey bear to Indian corn. In Virginia sweet apples and peaches, we have been told, arc used for feeding swine. CLEARING OF LANDS. But little need be said on this subject ; as he who has to undertake the clearing new lands will acqure more knowledge, from practice, of the best methods of subduing our heavy forests, than from any essay on the subject. He will tjnd that the essential point is to put his shoul- der to the wheel, and persevere undauntedly ; aud in a few years he will find his exertions amply conipeiisaled, by the pleasing scenes ami profitable improvements which shall have been made around his dwelling. When new Settlers first go into the woods, they have to spend much valuable time in hunt- ing up their oxen and milch cows, which, for want of an enclosed |)aslure, have to run in the woods ; and to remedy this, as soon as possible, we \*ould propose the following : — .\liout the ihst of June, take a suitable piece of ground, cut out the bushes, and all the small growth of timber which shall be under a certain size, sav a foot over at the but ; pile all the brush round those trees which are left standing. In a drv time, in the month of August, set lire to them, aud the lircs will kill the trees left standing: then pile and burn what lies on the ground, which is soon done, and in due season harrow- in a crop of wheat or rye, and in the following spring sow the ground over with herdsgrass. The crop of wheat or rye, sown in this way, will be nearly as good as if the timber were all taken off; and the year following the ground will afford the requisite supjily of pasture and hay. When the limbs of the standing trees begin to rot and fall oif, cut the whole down and let them lie there ; as the pasture w ill not be injured, but rather eventually beuelltteil, by the trees lying and rotting upon it.. This meth- od of killing trees by tire is, however, only re- commended where they are such as cannot be killed by girdlir.g ; such as beach, maple, bass- wood, &c. New Settlers, who will take this method of providing a supply of pasture and hay, will find tlieir {(ccount in two ways: It is turning the ground* to .mmediate profit, with the least possi- ble espense : and the surplus of hay and pasture will command an extra price ; as those articles are always scarce, during the commencement of new settlements. — Fanners'' Assistant. Improrcment in the Dasher of the Common Chiiru. This dasher turns on the handle, by being fixed to it by a pivot. It consists merely of two cross pieces, suppose three inches square, put together, by being let into each other, in such a manner as to lorm tour wings, which are cut beveling on each side, at an angle of forty-five degrees, so that they stand diagonally ; the whole being very similar to the wings of the little wind-mills (so called) which are set up on poles, to be turned by the wind. As this dasher goes down in the cream, it turns one way, on its pivot in the lower end of the handle, and as it comes up, it turns the other way ; and this produces an agitation of the cream better calculated for producing the butter, than any method ever yet known. It is so effica- cious in its operation, that the churning must be performed moderately, or the butter will come too soon, and be su'etied, as it is technically called by some. Mr. Fisher, the inventor of this dasher, ob- tained a premium in England for his discovery. The churning with this dasher is not attended with that splashing of the milk, so troublesome in the churn of the common dasher. — ibid. i 130 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. From tht .N'ew-Yoik Spectator of Nov. 13. .YEJV-YOIiK CATTLE SHOW AXD FAIR. wore upon the ground the famous horse Duroc, 01(1 Hickory, and the beautiful Arabian, the Bag- The task of making improvement on the earth, is I d;«I, imported last year by the Messrs Barclays. •> much mo.L- deiiglitful to an undebanrhid mind, The tat Cattle were very hue, particularly one " than all thi vaiu-glory which can U: acquired from yoke from Westchester, and a lot hron^ht upon '■ ravajiii* it by the most uuintcn jptid career o] *' conquests." — WASHiNaToK. That the permanency of the prosperity of a nation, next to the liberality of its institutions, depends on its Agricultural and Commercial pur- suiis, is a position which we believe few will be disposed at this time of day to dispute. Altho" it may be said of Great Britain, that the glory she has accinired has beon the fruit of her vic- tories ; yet if th.T cultivation of the soil, and her extensive manufactories had not yielded the tncans of prosecuting the wars in which she was engaged, she would have had no pre-eminence to boast of, when compared with other European States. It isfrom tbesofV, in fact, that every thin? is derived which can be converted into a usel'ul domestic purpose, or form the medium of our obtamingmany of the necessaries of life I'rom other parts of the globe. Without aeef will be tenderer and nicer by beii sutVered to hang two or three days in quarters, u to remain 24 hours in the pickle tub, beibre tht pickle is poured on it. I Take 12 or 14 gallons of pure water (if no:' pure, make it so, by boiling well after the sail ufacturedbv Mr. David Auchinvole, ot Hudson. Ij^^,. [jgg„ p^f j^^ .^^^ taking off the scu.ii as it ri- ses) and stir in good blown salt till it produces t brine, that wiU bear an e%g well. The day be tbre the salt and water are put together, put or a ]iit of pure water, into ivhich put clean woot ashes, and boil till they produce a good ley, tha teels a little slippery between the thumb ant tingor ; put this ley away till the nest day t( settle ; it will then look like pure water. Meas ure one gallon of this ley, taken up clear, am pour it into the salt and water, after that ha been made to the proper strength, or if you boil put in the ley directly after boiling. .Also put ii ■\{ the same time four ounces of sallpctre bea line ; and one pound of brown sugar, or a pint o molasses. — Stir the ingredients well toijether am let them stand till next day ; then carefully scun off every thing, that has risen, and pour thi pickle on the packed beef. The beef ought ti to wear ; and if tit for republicans, they are cer- tainly tit Ibr any body else. The cotton goods from the Matteawan Manufactory, embracing shirtings, sheetings, and ginghams of every va- riety, presented a highly gratifying spectacle. We'noticed also several rolls of flannels of a su- perior ([uality, and some diaper table linen man- which, as we have before said, is quite good enough tor freemen. There were no articles, perhaps, which at- tracted more attention than the imitation Leg- horn hats. We have examined many tine hats, of American and tbreign manufacture ; but we are free to say that there were three here pre- sented to the public, which in every point of view, exceed any thing of the kind that has be- fore fallen under our observation. The hat made by Miss Julia Harrison, of North East, Dutchess county, took the lii-st premium ; that of Miss Hedges, of Easthampton, (L. I.) the sec- ond ; and that of Miss Babcock, of the same jilace, the third. There were several others, execu- ted in a creditable manner, but only three were entitled to premiums. Mr. Obadiah Parker, of Greenwich, exhibited some fine specimens of Upland and Sea Island Cotton, raised in his garden the late season ; and there was another beautiful parcel, raised by Mr. M. Piogers, of Jericho, (L. I.) together with a pair of h.andsome cotton stockings, made from the same. But we will let the olhcers of the so- ciety speidc for themselves. The Society formed in procession at Deyo's Hotel, at 12 o*clock,and proceeded to the Cliurch whore an address was delivered by DR. S.\M- UEL L. MITCHELL. {This address shall appear i/i our next.) From the American Farmer. JIECKIPT FOR PICKLLra BEEF. October, 1V,2':. Dfar Sir,— You have published a number of excellent receipts ibr curing beef, but as none of them contain the alkaline ingredient, on which the high fame of my grandmother's pickle lus safely rested for the last half century, and which is believed to make it superior to any other, 1 send you the whole recipe, as worthy of preser- vation in your valuable journal, and of general adoption. Several writers have asserted that boiling the pickle will harden the meat ; I must, from experience, dissent from this opinion. — Boiling and thus purifying the salt and water, have on it a barrel heading, or circular piece o wood to fit the size of the pickle tub, so as jus to move up and down, and on this piece of wooi put a flat, heavy, clean stone to keep all dowi snug in pack, and the pickle ought to cover tht beef completely, and remain well above the toj piece. In pouring the pickle on, do itcarefulb and steady, and reject any sediment that maj appear at the bottom of the vessel, in which yoi have made it. In butchering and handling tin meat, and in every part of the process, attentioi should be paid to perfect neatness and cleanU ness. The above quantity of pickle is sulhcient foi 500 weight ot'beef. It' more beef is to be pick led at once, tbe quantity of pickle must be in creased accodingly, observing to keep up tht same proportion of all the ingredients. N. B. Theboiling the salt and water in even instance is the safest, especially if the pickle h( | m ide before .he end of November, or after the < middle of February, and is not much trouble I even thoughyou may not have a boiling vessel, that will hoU more than half or a third of if ai once. J Salem Alm.-House. — One thousand bushels oi' Corn, besid«s an abuudaot supply of I'otatoos NEW ENGLAND IJ'ARMER. 131 id other vegetables, have been raised at the Ims-House Farm the present season. The iportant improvements constantly making at is interesting ct?tablishment ; the order and ■gularity with which every thing is conducted ; id the neatness and comfort every where seen ithin its limits, reflect great honour on the •esent worthy Overseer, and entitle him to te lasting gratitude of the town. Mr. Upton, whose mind is ever bent on .some Ian of usefulness, has suggested, (and we think i|lie suggestion entitled to serious consideration) %it .1 Dam might he liuilt from the Ahiis-House li.vri', across Collins' Cove, to the nearest point 1 t!io opposite side, which would alTord suitable ,1 tor Mills of various kinds, and be of great ■..-■tit to the town as well as individuals — it ( idd also be a very convenient public w.iy be- i-n Beverly, Bridge street, &c. and the lower ^oftiieloH-n. The stone and gravel ne- ,.ry for the construction of the Dam, are to l-aj in groat abundance near the Alms-House, ni! by employing the n-ien, teams and gondolas f Ihe establishment, it might be executed at !iill expense. — Essex Register. From the New York Statesman. As you profess to devote a portion of yourpa- .1 to the interest of agriculture, I lake the lurty of communicating some facts relative to 10 turnip culture, which I have prosecuted this oar to a greater extent tlian before. '\ly farm, on the Albany commons, is a sandy i.uii, and, so far as I can judge, very much re- Mnhles the celebrated turnip soil of Norfolk, 1 I'ngland. The idea, which is prevalent in lany places, that the turnip requires a moist, oaty, or very rich soil, is erroneous It i' (jiially an error that they will not grow on old inds, provided they have a dry and sandy soil. 1 Xorfolk there have been raised live crops on «h1s which were eight-ninths silex ; and pcr- :ip< they do the best where the sand does not oiistitute less than 70 percent of soil. I find 1 row the best crop on the sides and tops of my iMi-t sandy hills; wheiV in places more moist, .iid abounding in more vegctalilo matter, they lie of diminished size, ill flavoured and stringy, bnce it has become a primary rule in my prac- icr to sow this crop upon my lightest soils. For table use, the later the turnip is grown be better. Those later sown, are more crisp, nirv, tirm, and better flavoured, than those .vhich are maturing during the heats ofScptcm- jor. 1 therefore sow late ; the common sorts rem the iioth July to the Gth August, and the ^■.\edes early in July. As a crop for cattle food, I have yet but little experience, except with the nita baga. Of the utility and profit of these I am fully satislicd. — Tliey are raised as cheap as Indian corn. The average product is from 500 to 600 bushels. In a root cellar, or in piles of 100 bushels, buried up on the surface of the ground, they keep per- •ectly well, and are fed without being cut to neat cal;le, with as little labor as any food. 1 have raised turnips five j'ears with unilorm success, and always as a second crop. — You probably recollect the high reputation they ob- tained in the Albany market as a table vegeta- ble. This year I have grown seven or eight acres, of dilferent kinds, viz : the flat red top and green top, the Norfolk white, the Aberdeen yellow, the globe and ruta baga ; md they all prove excellent of their kind— the two tirst yiohlcd at the rate of 7C0 bushels per acre. — The whole were raised on ground on which I had previously taken (the same year) clover-, rye, wheat, flax and peas. Most of the ground had a liglit dressing of manure, whi^h was ploughed under, and the seed sown broadcast, and harrowed in. They were thinued and weed- ed with the hoe once only. I contemplate sending a few hundred bushels to your market in a day or two, when 1 beg you will do me the favor to call at the boat and view them. I think they are not surpassed lor beauty and goodness b^' any which I ever saw. Your obedient servant, JESSE BUEL. BRF.F.D OF HORSE?. The fine exhibitions of this animal at the late Cattle Show in this county, have led to much conversation, and excited a laudable spirit of emulation ; and it is hoped a subject of so much importance to the community will continue to attract public attention, until the state is stock- ed with a new race of horses. Although the tirst premium was awarded to the celebrated Diiruc, of Dutchess county, jet the beautiful .\rabian Bagdad., imported and owned by Mr. Barclay, of this city, is said, by good judges, to be little if any inferior to his elder and success- ful rival ; and the most sanguine hopes are en- tertained, that the stock from Bagdad will con- tribute much to the improvement of our breed of horses. As the two competitors are kept in dift'erent parts of the state, the interests of their respective owners can in no way inter- fere.— ibid. Frfmi tlie Old Colony Memorial. That the following may receive the notice which it deserves, we lake the liberty of staling, that it is received tVom the Rev. Mr. Allen, of Pembroke, who has used it on the sides and roof of all of his buildings, except the house in wliich he resides. At a very little distance, the paint on the latter cannot be distinguished from this cheap, and ornamental mixture. Beside the neat appearance it gives, it niay be recommend- ed by the arguments of economy', as protecting' the wood from the vicissitudes of weather, and of precaution, in guarding against fire. The lat- ter should be an argument of great weight in this town. We can in no better way express our gratitude for the signal favour of Pi'ovidence, in saving us from the ravages of this destructive clement, than in guarding in every convenient and practicable way, against the mischief it may occasion. This cement is designed as a paint for the roofs of houses. It answers all the purposes of common paint, and also protects the roof from tire. Those who are now erecting new houses, or are about to paint the roots oj' old buildings, would do well to try it. The expense of paint- ing a roof in this \yay would be much less than the common method. — The cement becomes very hard and glossy, and is Said to be more du- rable than the best kind of |i;itiit. The follow- ing is a receipt for making it : — Take as much lime as usual in m iking a pail full of white- wash ; let it be sifted in the pail nearly full of water ; in this put two pounds and a half of brown sugar, and three pounds of fine .salt — mix them well together, and the cement is composed. A little lamp-black, yellow ochi-e, or otiier colouring commodity, may be intermixed, ta change the colour of the cement, to please the fancy of those who use it. From the Northampton Gazette. Sarnn Sheep. — Our enterprising townsmen, Isaac C. Bates, Esq. and Col. James Shepherd, have recently imported two Saxon backs, which have arrived in town. They wore purchased in Saxony for these gentlemen more than a year since, and sclecteil b}- a good judge, as the ex- cellence of the animals evinces. It is well known that Saxon wool commands a higher price in the English market than Spanish. If is the material of which the superline west of England cloths aro made. The growth of it, therefore, in this country, is important to the agricultural and manufacturing interests. These bucks are of the merino race of sheep, but im- proved. They arc remarkable for the fineness, delicate softness, and singular uniformity of thoir fleeces, and are an acquisition to the country, for v.'hich the proprietors are entitled to a meed of thanks. iSkeep. — In the Report cf the Committee on Sheep at the AVorcester Cattle Show, it is stat- ed that England and AVales possess '2ii milliona of Sheep, the annual produce of whose wool i» 27 millions of dollars. England imports from Spain about one fflernth of the whole quantity of wool which she manufactures. Three fourths of the wool wrought by the woollen manufac- tories of the United States is the product of foreign soil. — ibid. Exfraordiiwnj Prnduct. — Mr. Edwin Lathrop, of Hawley, raised the past season one hundred and eighti/ sninincr squashes from one seed. — ibid. A ncti! Method of heading Cabbage in the IVinter. Last fall, at the usual lime of taking in Cab- bages, I had a number well grown, but had no appearance of a 1. fad. I dug a trench on the southern declivity of a hill, about 18 inches v/ide, and 20 or '22 inches deep, and took tiG cabbages of the above description, and set them out in the bottom of the trench, in their natural position, with the roots well covered with sand : I then filled the trench with straw on each side of the cabbages, and laid straw over the tops of them, to prevent the sand from getting in ; then placed a rail over the middle of the trench, to prevent any pressure on the cabbages, and then com- . pleted the work by throwing on more straw, and i'orniing a ridge of sand over the whole, to keep out I'rost and water. In the latter part of March, 1 opened the trench and took out the cabbages, and found each one with a common sized head, white, solid, and well tasted. — Anon. Easy method of breaking Glass in any required direction. — Dip a piece of worsted tiiread in spirits of turpentine, wrap it round the glass in the direction that you require it to be broken, and then set fire to the thread, or apply a red hot wire round the glass, and if does not imme- diately crack, throw cold water on it while the wire remains hot. By this means glass that is broken may often be fashioned, and rendered uselul for a variety of purposes. — Eng. yiap. T32 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. From the National jEgis. MINERALOGICAL No. II. To obtain a knowledge of the properties of those bodies which are found on the earth, or beneath its surlace, wliich arc destitute of an or- ganic structure ; to distinguish and bestow names upon them, and to o;ive to them a suitable de- scription and an orderly arrangement, are the objects of the science of Mineralogy. Hence results its connexion with Agriculture. The Farmer employs many substances, as manures. . which belong to this comprehensive division of the family of nature. The soil which he tills, is comjiosed of various constituents and filled with numerous fragments, which are properly to be consider.id as minerals. To become ac- quainted with the names which have been be- stowed on these, without studying: the fjimlhies they possess, is a trifling, lilted only for the amusement of the indolent. To discover that the most precious of gems, is called the Dia- mond, and that one of the most valuable of ma- nures, is denominated Marie, is making but a small advance in improvement. The practical mm will consider how the value of the former m ly be enhanced and its beauty increased by it= i^jsceptibility of a polish, and will reflect on the economical ap|)lication of the latter, to the renovation of lands exhausted by repealed croi)s, or Its power of increasing the fertility of those which are still proiluctive. Whether that mass of mineral ingredients combined with various decomposed animal and vegetable mailer, sjiread over the surface and called soil, serves only as a support for plants and a medium by which nourishment is trap.s- mitted to them, or whether it prepares and fur- nishes their food, in either view, its constitution is equally deserving of attention. It has been proved by experiment that particles held in so- lution pass unchanged into the roots of plants. Vegetables have been made to grow in solutions of salts, and examination has shown that they were tinged with the peculiar colors of the li- quids in which they were immersed, and analy- sis detected that the salts themselves had been absorbed. This has been the case when the mixtures employed were of the mo-^t poisonous and deleterious nature. If plants then, have not discernment enough to select that food which is proper for their support and reject that which is destructive to their existence, it is the more necessary that the cultivator should remove from them the means of committing a kind of suicide. The noxious elements, which render the soils in which they abound unfit for crops, are few. They are generally such as may be neutralized, or converted into agents oi fertility by appropriate applications and dressings. it is not unusual to find the surface of standing waters in meadows, where the earth is appar- ently rich, mantled with a floating incrustation of various hues. Such an appearance is an in- dication of the presence of Iron combined with Sulphur, in the projiortions which form the sul- phate of that metal, well known by the more familiar name of Cojipcras. The same substance is detected by its color, or by its taste on higher lands. Wherever it exists it is an unfailing cause of sterility. By the application of Car- bonate of Lime the action of this pernicious acid is not only neutralized, but the sulphuric acid, leaving its former comliination, unites with the lime forming the sulphate of Lime or Gyp- sum. In this manner qualities which are inju- rious to vegetation, are converted into others which are favorable to it. Similar examples, \vould all demonstrate the utility of that science which furnishes information on the constituents of soils, and provides us with the means of sup- [ilying their defects, correcting their noxious qualities, and adding to their productiveness. A detail of the several processes, which are employed for the analysis of soils and discover- ing the minerals of which they are composed would exceed our assigned limits. Nor is such an explanation now necessary. It has been al- ready given by Professor Davj', a man in whose fiiot-ste[is no successor may follow and find any thing remaining for improvement. The object of our remarks is merely to recommend this department to practical men. It is sufficient to say that by following the clear and perspicuous directions which he has laid down, results are arrived at with the greatest ease. No long pre- vious acquaintance with Chemistry is necessary. A i'cw simple principles comprehend all the se- crets of this science in its conneciion w-itli agri- culture. None need be deterred from pursuing it b}' the apprehension of encountering insuper- able difiiculties. The little study which it will require, the small portion of lime which it may demand, will be abundantly remunerated in the increase of knowledge, in the amelioration of the earth, and in the improvement of its har- vests. A FARMER. rrom the National (Vermont) Standard. WHEAT Is one of the most valuable productions of our soil, and the only one on which we can gener- ally safel}' calculate for exportation at a I'rofit. In a very considerable portion of this state, so large a proportion of our lands have already been cleared, that very little of this grain will, in future, be raised upon newly cleared lands. Most of what shall be hereafter raised, must be raised on lands which have been sometime un- der cultivation. On such lands, this valuable grain is many times liable to injury from the blast. A certain remedy for this injury is very desirable. In order to stimulate our farmers to an inipiiry into the cause which tend to pro- duce this injury, and to exert themselves to search out a remedy, we present them with the following extract iVoni Dr. Dwiglit's travels in New-England, recently published, which con- tains his theory on the subject of the blast in wheat. Dr. Dwight, in his various tours Ibrough the Nevv-England Stales visited almost every town, and became intimately acquainted with the different modes of husbandry pursued !n each. From his known talents, information and particular attention to those subjects which be considered of public interest, of which agri- culture was one of tlic most prominent, any ob- servations from his pen, on this subject, will, unquestionably, be perused with interest and attention^ by all who duly estimate the impor- tance of this crop, not only as it respects our farmers individually, but the interest of the State generally. If his theory is correct, our limestone ledges, will, with little labor, furnish us abundantly with one of the remedies which he prescribes, and become a much greater source of [irotit than they have heretofore been. " The reason why the lands in New-England, which formerly yielded wheat surely and plen- tifully, suffer at the present time such injuries from the blast, as in a great measure to discour- age farmers from attempting to cultivate it, has been anxiously and extensively sought for, but not, it is believed, satisfactorily discovered. — From my own observation, and inquiries, 1 have been induced to attribute this evil to the agen- cy of animal manure. This subject has been alicady mentioned in my observations on the county of Worcester; it shall now be resumed. The manner in which Wheat is generally blasted in New-England, appears to me very evidently to be this. During the months of .Tune and July, when the kernels of wheat in the different climates of New-England are in the milk, the vegetation is far more rapid than in most countries of Europe. Whenever the season at thi- period is both moist and hot, the rapidi- ty becomes extreme. The vegetable juice ascending then in too great quantities, and with a ne;v celerity, wears with difliculty through the vessels of the stalk, regularly lessening to- wards the neck, and at that time so tender as to be easily ruptured, bursts them in various places ; particularly at the neck : and flows out upon the surface of the stem. When it first ex- udes, it is very sweet to the taste ; and has hence been commonly sirpposed to bo the resi- due of a particuliir kind of dew, called by the farmers honey dt-x. Had any farmer recollect- ed, what he cannot fail to find when he finds a honey dew, that it never appears on any thing beside living vegetable, and that, if it were a dew, it must be found equally on every other substance exposed to the atmosphere ; he would certainly have determined, that it was merely the sweet juice of iho vegetable itself. Wheu this juice has pervaded the slaik, it soon be- comes sour in the sunbeams ; then so acid, as to corrode the stalk; and finally a rust, (as it is commonly called,) of a brown hue, and an ofl'eu- sive smell. Animal manure, beyond any other accelerates vegetation. Wheat nurtured by this manure, grows with so much rapidity, and with so ten- j der a stalk, that in the agricultural language of ! this country, it lodges not unfrequcntly, (i. e. it I falls under the pressure of w ind or rain) by its own weight; and never recovers its original position. This dangerous process is peculiarly advanced by the use of this manure; and the rapidity of vegetation otherwise too great, is by ibis substance rendered still greater. Hence all fields, when this manure is employed, are pe- culiarly exposed to blast. For a few years af- ter lands are dressed with it the evil is so evi- dent to the e\e of common observation, as to be not unfrequcntly believed to exist by some farmers, and suspected by others. Were ev- ery' season hot and wet, during this period, it would, I doubt not, have long since been gen- erally realized and acknowledged. Rut as in some seasons these months are cool and dry; and those fields which have been dressed with this manure, then yield wheat successfully ; and as in the most unfavorable seasons, lands dres- sed in a diffcrcDt manure, are also subjected to the blast ; the question has hitherto failed of any answer, which has been generally satisfactor}'. The reasons, ivhich have induced me to adopt the opinion here alleged, are principally the following: 1. All the lands in this country, which were not too wet originally yielded wheat, easily. NEW ENGLAND FARMER. l.iS Urely. and so far as they were rich, abundantly. The inhabitants of North-Hampton for many rears paid their public tax in wheat; and this vheat grew on the very lands, where for a long »eriod it has been supposed to be so uncertain m object of culture, as to be scarcely worth the ittempt, i. e. on Intervale?. 2. New lands yield wheat perfectly well in nost parts of this country at the present time, jonie farmers believe, that there is such a change wrought by time, either in the climate )r in the soil, independently of the proper ef- ccts of culture, that the blast is to be attributed o this change. Although this is a mere suppo- .ition, supported by no evidence, it has still had ts weight. But it is entirely refuted by the act, mentioned under this head. Lands in the .amo circumstances yield wheat as abundantly it the present time, as at any former period. It deserves to be remembered, that all the In- ervalcs along the Connecticut have furnished iome crops of this grain for a considerable time ifter they lirst began to be cultivated. 3. Lands dressed with ashes, now furnish fine ;rops of wheat, which is rarely or never blast- id. The only reason why the crops on new ands are so .safe from the blast, is, that they ire covered with vegetable mould ; another lame for vegetable manure ; and so long as the jfficacyofthis manure lasts, are dressed with 10 other. It is the universal tendency of this ■nould to produce great crops ; but it produces hem byn gradual and moderate vegetation. — ishes, which are the same manure in another brm, produce the same elTect in exactlj' the same manner. Accordingly, although the crop )f wheat, yielded by grounds dressed (vith ashes, .? abundant ; yet the stalk is lirm, and strong ; nuch stronger but much shorter than that pro- luced by animal manure, and equally safe from odging, and blasting, as that which grows on ■ egetable mould. It ought to be observed, that in grounds, ivhere the vegetable mould is very deep and iliundant, wheat grows so rapidly as to be uni- versally blasted. That this effect is solely deri- ved from the redundance of this manure is cer- tain, because the same lands after the cultivation of a few years, yield wheat perfectly well. 4. In various instances, which have fallen within my knowledge, wheat, sown after clover, has been perfectly free from any injury by the blast ; and that on Intervales, and other lands most liable to this injury. Here vegetable ma- nure has been employed in another form ; yet the same efl'ect has been produced. 5. Lands, dressed with gypsum, have been equally favorable to wheat. This good elTect has, however, been commonly produced through the medium of clover ; the gypsum having been first employed for the production ol this ])lant, and the wheat having been sown after the clo- ver had been ploughed in. 6. Fields, manured with the white fish, have yielded wheat, universally, in great abundance, and with almost absolute certamty. This is in- deed animal manure also ; but very difierent from that, which I have introduced by this phrase above ; viz. that of the stable and barn- yard. The white tish is a species of herring, very fat and oily, and remarkably favorable to vegetation of every kind, which is the object either of agriculture, of horticulture. 1 have mentioned this fact, to show, that the evil com- plained of, has its origin neither in the soil, nor in the climate ; but in the particular mode of cultivation, which 1 have mentioned as its pro- per cause. 7. The lands in rennsylvania, which yield plentit'ul crops of wheat, are regularly dressed with lime, or gypsum; and neither here nor in those old settlements in the State of New-Vork where this grain is least exposed to the blast, are cattle very numerous. Of course the kiiul "f manure, which I su|)pose to be noxious to this plant, cannot abound in these countries. I im informed also, that, when this manure is used, it is generally mixed with other substan- ces in a compost ; and converted, either parllj', or wholly', into mould, before it is employed as a dressing. It ought also to be observed, that a great (lart of the wheat lands in these countries are clay ; and that the process of vegetation mav be therefore materially different from that, j which exists in Neiv-Eugland, where the soil is |irinci]>ally loam with a mixture of gravel. It is however said, that in Pennsylvania their crops tail, when they are unable to dress the lands in lime, or gypsum.* It is also said that the lands along the Mohawk River, which have hereto- fore yielded wheat with great certainty, as well as luxuriance, are gradually becoming less and less fitted for this kind of culture. 1 have been informed that at Newbury they have lately adopted a new kind of husbandry, liy means of which the crops of wheat are no less sure, and prosperous, than they were for- merly. What this mode is, I have not, howev- er, been able to learn. In my own belief, animal manure produces this noxious effect long alter it has ceased to enrich the soil. Although its influence has in this case become small ; yet, so far as it ex- tends, it is mischievous ; anil may, at the dan- gerous period above mentioned, accelerate a growth, at least sufficiently rapid otherwise, so as to produce the evil in question. Thus I con- sider grounds, long devoted to pasturage, as being injurious to the culture of wheat as really, though in a less degree, as those which are ma- nured from the stable in form. It ought, however, to be observed, that since the Hessian fly has rendered it impossible to cultivate what is here called white bald wheal, we have lost the species best fitted for the soil and climate of New England, as well as that which furnishes the best bread. All the sub- stitutes for this wheat have yielded inferior crops ; have been more exposed to the blast ; have been more injured by the frost ; have weighed less ; and been of an inferior quality. Should these observations be allowed to me- rit the attentioil of farmers in this country, it would certainly be worth an experiment to sec how far the use of vegetable and mineral ma- nures, would remedy this verj' serious evil. — Were lands, inleiided lor the culture of wheat, to be employed tor this purpose during a con- siderable period ; were clover or other vegeta- ble substances, or, where they can be obtained, mineral manures, to be alone employed as the means of enriching the soil, I am persuaded my countrymen would again see their crops of this grain not less sure, less abundant, nor less gen- er.il, than they were in former tinies." From llie Kariners' Weekly Messenger. SIGJfS OF A GOOD F.IRMER. His corn land is ploughed in the fall — His bull is from two to five years old and he works him. He seldom lets his work drive him. Has a cooking stove with plenty of pipe to it. The wood lots he possesses are fenced. His sled is housed in summer, and his cart, ploughs and wheelbarrow, winter and summer when not in use ; has as many yoke of good oxen as he has horses — Does not feed his hogs with whole grain — Lights may be seen in his house often before break of day in winter — His hog-pen is boarded inside and out — Has plenty of weeds and mud in his yard in the fall — All his manure, is carried out from his buildings and barn yard twice in the year, and chip dung once a ^ear — His cattle are almost all tied up in the winter — He begins to find out that manure put on land in a green state is the most prolitable — Raises three times as many turnips and potatoes for his stock as he does for his family — Has a good lad- der raised against the roof of his house — Has more lamps in his house than candlesticks — Has a house on purpose to keep his ashes in and an iron or tin vessel to take them up — He has a large barn and a small house — seldom has more pigs than cows — adjoining his hog-pen he has a hole to put weeds and sods, and makes three loads of best manure from every old hog and two from every pig. A good farmer in this country begins to find out that steaming vegeta- bles can be done at one third the expense of boiling, and that the Ruta Baga turnip is a thing worth thinking of — he fences before he ploughs and manures bei'ore he sows — He deals more for cash than on credit. * This remark, and iudced tlie whole tenor of the article has a tendency to confirm what we have ob- served iu No. 12, pp. 91, 92, of the N. E. Fanner, rel- ative to the necessity of lime, in some of its combina- tions, to insure the production of wheat. Pish makes a useful manure for wlieat, because it contains, togeth- er with other food for plants, phosphate of lime, in greater ijuactities than most animal substances. Ed. .V, £;. Farmer. HABITS OF CATTLE WITH RESPECT TO FOOD. It has been observed by some American wri- ter upon Agriculture, that American Cattle were not so fond of turnips, ruta baga, and some oth- er plants not generally cultivated for feeding stock in this country, as it should seem that English cattle were. This apparent squeam- ishness of our native breed of cattle may be ac- counted for by any one who will make a proper application of the following passage from An- derson^s Essays on Agriculture, vol. ii, p. 6. " .\lthough it may be presumed, that in gen- eral, instinct points out to animals the plants that are hurtful to them or the reverse ; yet experience sufficiently shows that this cannot be relied on as an invariable guide — among do- mestic animals at least ; which, by having little freedom of choice from their infancy, have their taste in all probability depraved, as well as our own. I have seen oxen that on no ac- count could be brought to cat turnips ; and there are very few put upon them, who do not eat them at first with some degree of reluc- tance, if they have not been sometimes accus- tomed to taste them before ; yet it is very well known, that lew kinds of food are more nour- 134 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. ishing and jjalafable to cattle, after they have been accustomed to it.'' The fo!lowiri!j l>om (he Farmer's .'hsistun:, will shov/ that instinct is not an infallible guide for horsrs^ as rcsjjccts the food which is best adapted to their nouriKhment. " Pumpkins arc excellent for fattin? lior3e=. Thei/, lioii'cvcr, do not relish them at first ; and therefore must be kept from feeding, till they are hungry, before the pumpkins arc offered to them ; and let a little salt be llr>t sprinkled on this lood, when they ivill soon grow fond of it and eat it readily, without salt." ' It " himger makes good sauce for horse.-',"" no doubt it would an.swcr for cattle, and might make the latter relish turnips as well as the former pumpkins. I3ut cattle or horses fed upon pumpkins, turnips, or any such succulent iood, or upon green clover, i,c. should be salted more liberally than those, which are confined to hay or other dry food. Kroni the American Farmer. Improvement of A'tat Cattle — Peiligrers of Im- ported .htitfKtls, i-c. ^-c. \^ have witnessed with peculiar pleasure, the persevering and praiseworthy zeal which Col. Jno. H. Powell, of Pliiladelphia, continue- to manifest for improvement of our breeds of Neat Cattle; as well by judicious soli_'Ctions from our native stock, as by the importation of chosen animals from England. In No. G, of this Vol. page 4.1, we published a list of animals, which he had collected chielly from the Eastern States, for the purpo-e of ex- hibiting them in Pennsylvania, and distributing them at cost, amongst the Farmers of his native and other states. And in No, 16, pages 12'2 — 3, our readers will have noticed an oihcial account of the exhibition, made b3' the same gentleman, of some ot tiiose animals, and of otlirr native and imported stock, before the Philadelphia Agricultural Society, for nearly all of which pre- miums were awarded to Col. Powell, that were instantly and generously relinquished by him, for the benelit of the Society. In the same number, the effects of this gen- tlcman'.s judicious and spirited efforts, to ad- vance the interests of his neighbours, may be traced through the list of premiums obtained by them for superior young Neat Cattle, that partook of the blood of the improved breed, which he had brought to their notice and plac- ed at their service. We rejoice to learn that Col. Powi^ll has or- dered some more animals from England, and hope that 1 o may realize his loftiest expecta- tions I'rom the enterprize. I'rnm .Mr. Wether- ill, the breeder of Mr. Williams" celebrated <^ Hull '-Denton," and from Mr. Champion, the breeder of Colonel Lloyds' beautiful and prom- ising Bull " Champion," he may justly expect to receive some of the most improved cattle of Great Pritain. And no where could such Stock be better placed than ivithin the reach of Penn- sylvania Farmers; who, like their judicious fel- low c tizens of Massachusetts, will glailly em- brace every opportunity to improve the breeds of their Neat (.'attlo. And that all may hcrc.ifter avail themselves of the offspring of such animals as prove to be (he best of their kinil, we have pro])osed to re- cord the pedigrees of imported and ci'lebratcd stock, which we will thankfully receive from owners, or others who possess such information, and carefully register it in our columns. We are indebted to Col. Powell for the following pedigrees of two very valuable imported ani- mals, and two others of imported breeds. PKDlGRr.F.S. FLOllA, (an imported thorough bred improved .Durham Short Horn Cow) was by Sampson — dam was Bettj" — grandam Old Petty, who came from the neighbourhood of Darlington, Durham County, I'.ngland — Sampson was by son of Ossian — Ossian was by Favorite — Samp- son's dam was by Comet — Comet was by Fa- vourite. ROSE is also a thorough bred improved Dur- ham Short Horn Cow, and was j)urchased near Darlington. LOTii'ARlO, a bull of 7 months, was from Rose, by Oeorge^-^George was by Phenomenon — dam by Favorite — grandam by M. Allison's Gray — great grandam by T. Charge's Old Gray — Phenomenon was by Favorite, from Elvira, bred by Sir li. Vane Tempest — Elvira was by Old Phenomenon, from Princess, both bred by Robert Collings — Princess was by Old Favourite. CORA, was by Mr. Williams' bull Denton, from Julia — Julia was by Denton, from Mr. Wil- liams' imported cow Devon — Denton was by Old Denton — dam by Baronet — 'grandam by Cripple — great grand dam by irishman — Old Denlon was by Comet. almost demonstrated the infinite divisibility of matter by actual experiment. If the food of vegetables was reduced to an impalpable powder, as much finer thau smill'as snuff is finer than grape shot, they imagined it would be more easily swallowed and digested, than if it remained all kneaded together, or its particles were congregated in coarse lumps, which plants could neither, carve into particles of a proper size for deglutition nor take in and decompose or digest without division. Van Hrlmont and many other men, who have been famous in the annals of philosophy, were confident that water is the one thing luedful for tlie growth of every species of vegetation, and that the soil, in which plant? are fixed is no otherwise useful than as it serves to sus- tain them in an upright position and to convey water to thi ir roots in such quantity as may be adequate to their wants. Very many able writers have adopted this theory, and it would seem that even at this day it is not without its advvocates.* THE FARMER. BOSTOy .—SATURDAY, .\OV. 23, 1822. 0.\ bAVI.\G AXD 3IAU1.\G THE MOST OF MANURE. {Continued from page 111.) It has generally been taken for granted, by those who have considered themselves as adepts in the sci- ence of agriculture, that the great store-house of nature contained, in some corner of the apartment, a very valuable substance, called/oorf for plants. 7'his they supposed to be the essence of all manure, and the only thing needful, in order to raise, on any soil to which it might be applied, as great crops as could possibly find room for their top? and footstalks. They therefore set about exploring and experimenting, nimmagiug and ravaging the animal, vegetable and mineral kingdoms in search of this magical substance, this faimer's phi- losopher's stone, which v*-ould metamorphose a desert into a flower garden as it were l>y the wand of a nc- cromanctr. At length certain philosophers verily be- lieved, and told the world their opinions, that they had found the identical y?«6tt/um of ve^ttalion, as they call- ed it, and that agriculturists had nothing to do but to manure their fields with the said pabulum in order to procure the best and most profitable of all possible products. But, unfortunately, it so happened that no two, or at least no half dozen of these learned and in- genious system-makers could agree upon the nature and constituent parts of this appropriate diet for vege- tables; and of course the said vegetables were obliged to pick up a living as they could, while their philo- sophic caterers viere preparing messes precisely adapt- ed to their appetites and constitutions. Duhamel and TuU were of opinion that the earlli in which plants grew, furnished their principal food. That in order to enable their little mouths, (which were ))laced in their roots) to imbibe their nourislunenl, the soil ntu»t be ploughed and harrowed till you hnd * lAjrd Kaimes was of this belief which he fortificj by the authority of Lord Bacon, who, he observes, "gave his opinion, that for nourishing vegetables, wa- ter was almost all in all ; and that the earth serves buf to keep the plant upright, and preserve it froa too much heat, or too much cold." Gentleman Farmer, p. 363. More modem writers have also given some coun- tenance to this theory, as may be learned from the fol- lowing note from Parkea' Chemical Catechism, p. 453, 10th edition. " That vegetables w ill grow in woollen cloth, moss, and in other insoluble media, besides soils, provided they be supplied with water, has been repeatedly shown since the days of Van Helmont and Bnyle ; but the ex- periments of a modern author, from their apparent cor- rectness, seem more highly interesting and conclusive " Seeds of various plants were sown in purerivtr- sand, in litharge, in flowers of sulphur, and even among metal, or common leaden shot ; and in every instance nothing employed for their nourishment but distiltid welter. The plants throve, and passed through all the usual gradations of growth to perfect maturity. The author then proceeded to gather the entire produci , the roots, stems, leaves, pods, seeds, k.c. These were accurately weighed, dried, and again weighed, then submitted to distillation, incineration, lixiviation, and the other ordinary means used in a careful analysis. — 'I'hus he obtained from these vegetables all the materi- als peculiar to each individual species, precisely as il it had been cultivated in a natural soil, — viz. the various earths, the alkalies, acids, metals, carbon, sulphur, phosphorus, nitrogen, &c. He concludes this very im- portant paper nearly in these extraordinary word* : ■' O.rvgc" and //V'' '".?«", with the assistance of soli, light, appear to be the only elementary substances eii: ployed in the constitution of the whole universe ; ami iVature, in her simple progress, works the most infinite- ly diversified effects by the slightest modifications in the means she employs.'" See " Rtclitrclies sur /.. Force nisimiliitrice dans les r>g!7n«r," )iar -M. Heni. Braeonnot, Anneiles lie Oiimie, Fev. et ^lars, 1808. " Professor Leslie has made many experiments on a variety of earths and stones by means of his improved hygrometers, the results of vihlch are highly dcservin; the attention of all practical agriculturalists. From these researches he has been induced to think it proba- ■ ble, that the fi-rtility of soils depends chiefly on their disposition to imbibe moisture. See his Short Account of E.rperimt7its and Jn.sfriiments dependtTiff ou the lit' tat ions of Air, Jhat, and J\Ioislure, octavo, pages 9-1 — 102." Notwithstanding plants can bo made to grow in pure water, that circumstance does not prove that water ia rxclusireli/ food for vegetables, any more than their growing in air (as some vegetables will) would prove that clement to be their appropriate food. It might as well be said that the possibility of fatting an ox on po- tatoes is an incontrovertible argument that potatoes are the principal and almost the exclusive food of ani« mals. Allhoxigh plant; may have power to change NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 135 Dr. A. HunttT, the author and compiler of several (Tolumes of Ceorgical Lssays, many of which contain rery useful observations, and facts, which are the her- ilds of much agricullural science, thought that he too lad discovered the genuine food of plants. " I lay it lown, he observed, as a fundamental maxim, that all plants receive their principal nourishment, from oily uid mucilaginous particles, incorporated with water, 3y means of an alkaline salt, or absorbent earth. Till )il is made miscible, it is unable to enter the radical vessels of vegetables, and on that account Trovidencc las bountifully supplied all natural soils with chalky )r other absorbent particles." Fxperiment, however, he only infallible touchstone of theory, at length cou- .incud Dr. Hunter that the cheapest oil was a very lear, but not very efficient article in a manure or com- 30st heap ; and oil, considered as a pabulum of vege- tation, was held in no higher estimation than the sub- stances which it had superseded. The atmosphere had the honor of being next pro- moteil to the otfice of purveyor of plants, and victualler jf vegetation. The whole vegetable kingdom, from the cedar of Lebanon to the moss upon the wall, from the oak of the forest to the parasitical plant, which, according to Sir Joseph Banks, battens upon the stalk uf wheat, and causes mildew, was fed on air like a lam. lion ; and manure derived all its utility from its itlraction for the atmospherical paliulum, or panacea. That air does contain food for plants is evident from he circumstance that the house leek aud various sorts jf mosses will increase in weight without the aid of water or earth. But there are some other substances which appear to possess it in greater quantities, and better prepared for the purposes of vegetation. Thus I plant, whiih is partly withered in the air, maybe •evived by being sprinkled with water, and water slightly impregnated with muriate of soda, [common >xygen and hydrogen into " the various earths, the ilkalies, acids, metals, carbon, sulphur, plvosphorus, litrogen," &c. it would probably be more convenient "or said vegetables to be fed with food, which contains iuch products as enter into their composition and make 1 part of their substance, ready manufactured, than to je under the necessitj' of manufacturing the whole rom oxygen aud hydrogen, which M. Braconnot ap- pears to believe are the primitive particles, or raw ma- lerials from which the luiiverse was constructed. Some remarks by Mr. Cooper, Editor of the last American edition of Dr. Willich's Domestic Encyclope- dia, would appear to strengthen the conclusion of M. Braconnot. " In the case of the decomposition of animal sub- stances, whether in the dry, or4he moist way, no acid appears : we get azote, a foitid animal oil, swimming at the top of a volatile alkaline liquor, and sometimes »ncrete volatile alkali, or carbonate of ammonia comes jver. The retort contains an animal charcoal, con- sisting of azote, carbon loosely combined, the base of Ihe prussic acid, and if bones be used, phosphate of lime. • In this case, the azote, the lime, and the phospho- !i;, seem to be new combinations, the result of animal organization, modifying chemical affinity. There are many districts of Pennsylvania, perhaps the best pas- ture land in it, that do not contain a particle of lime ;tone. Such for instance as a great part of the county of Luzerne, and the beech country comprehended be tween the north-east branch of Susquehannah, the N York state line and the Delaware. There is no finer grass country ; but lime-stone is rare throughout the jreatest part of this space. A calf bred up there, will liave bones, that is phosphate of lime ; his flesh will yield aso/e, either by distillation, or by the nitric acid; Where does he get it ? The soil contains none; the crrnss nn which he feeds contains none, but the ox is i.Vi' (ly composed of a?ote and phosphate of lime :" >alt] and perhaps some other saline substances, will preserve vegetables from drooping longer than pure distilled water. At any rate, it is pretty evident that the atmosphere is not a very rich food for vegetables, because it robs a manure heap of its fertiliiing quali- ties, although it communicates such qualities to a hun- gry loam. It is like a pint of water about half saturat- ed with common salt, which by mixture will make a quart perfectly fresh water somewhat brackish ; or if the quart of water was fully saturated with salt, some- what more fresh. In other words, the atmosphere caus- es very rich laud to become poorer, and very poor land to become richer, and can with no more propriety be said to constitute the food of plants, than earth can be said to constitute the food of mankind, because some savages in South America are said to support nature, in times of scarcity, from a sort of fat loam or mould which they dig up and swallow. While philosophers were thus floundering on from one deep abyss of error to another still deeper, Chem- istry came forward, and proffered its lamp to guide their feet. By analysing vegetables, chemists profess- ed to ascertain, precisely, what kind of matter entered into their composition, or, (to express the same thing in more familiar terms) what sort of stufl' they were made of. The simple subetances which they found in plants are principally oxygen, [vital air] hydrogen, [inflammable air] and carbon [coaly matter.] Some others are found in smaller quantities, such as phos- phorus, lime, silica, &c. Sec. and seem to be rather ac- cidental additions than substances which are indispen- sable to their existence.* These few simple elements, by being variously compounded and modified, produce gum or mucilage, starch, sugar, albumen, gluten, gum elastic, extract, tannin, indigo, narcotic principle, bit- ter principle, wax, resin, fixed oil, volatile oil, woody fibre acids, alkalies, &c. &c. ^A hen these premises were once established, and it was discovered that nearly all the substance of all plants was hydrogen, oxygen, and carbon, it followed, as Sir Humphrey Davy has expressed it, that " no one principle aflbrds the pabulum of vegetable life; i s neither charcoal, [coaly matter] nor hydrogen, [inflammable air] nor azote, [the elastic substance which forms a great part of the atmosphere and which is incapable of supporting combustion] nor oxygen, [vital air] alone ; but all of them together in various states, and various combi- nations."* We believe that this theory of Sir Humphrey Davy is the most correct of any which has been advanced, and hope, in a future number, to deduce from his prin- ciples some results which may prove of practical uti- lity. . (to be COXTIiVl'ED.) * It is thought, however, that lime and silica are in- dispensably requisite for the existence of some plants, in which they are always found by analysis. t See Agricultural Chemistry, lecture 1, p. 18, Bal- timore edition. Cul. PowtlVs Improvemenis in the Breeding of Cattle, We have republished in this day's paper, p. 134, an article from the American Farmer, headed " Improve- ment of Js'eat Cattle,'''' with much satisfaction ; and are happy in an opportunity of expressing our sense of the merit which attaches to such exertions of wealth and talent to become usi;ful as well as eminent. Colonel Powell is well known in Massachusetts as a liberal and enlightenel (England) is to be lighted with gas. A capit.al of EO,tCO pcuuds has been subscribed I'y a company for this peiposc. A serious niisuiukrEtanding exists between the Prince of Brazil and the Portuguese Cortes. 1 he formir has shewn a disposition lo render his government indepen- dent of the motliei* country, and the latter have decreed that the delegated aulliority of the Prince shall imme- diately cease, and that he shall return to Porti.gol in the course of four months. Havana is said to he greatly infested with robbers, who commit nocturnal depredations, keep the inhabi- tants in a state of constant alarm, anel are sometimes too powerful for Ihe control of the police. A profitable commerce is now carried on between some of tlie por(= in the Southern states and the "West India Islands belonging to the British. The P.akigb Register says, "one small vessel carried out a cargo of timber which cost $500, and returned with West India produce worth $3,000." A dreadful stoim has occurred in the neighboihood of Calcutta, in which from IG to 17,000 houses were destroyed, and more than 12,000 men, v. omen and children. The loss in cattle, grain, ice. was also very great ; and those who escaped the inundation arc threatened with famine. Poison. — Mr. Edmund Jukes, a surgeon of Westmin- ster, Eng. has invented an apparatus by which the stomach may be emptied of poison, received by acci- dent or design. After trying it on various animals with complete success, he experimented on himself'— aad swallowed ten drachms of laudanum, from which he was promptly relieved. A foot race between a Y^orkshire-man and a Lanca- shire-man was lately run at Doncaster. The purse was 20 guineas. The Yorkshire-man won the race by 100 yareis. Time, 20 minutes and 35 seconds, for 4 miles. Longevity. — There is now living in the state of Ohio a poor old woman, named Ann Bailey, who is supposeel to be about one hundred and twenty years old. She was about 12 or 13 years old, when Queen Anne of England died, after whom she was named. She still retains so much health and slre-ngth as to scmctimes attend market with a few fowls, i:c. making a journey on foot of about seven miles to dispose of her articles, which she carries on her back. Since the first of January, sixty-seven of the officers of the U. S. .\avy have died. At Schenectady, N. Y. Fair, a bull calf was exhibit- ed, for which the owner refused to take $2St^. Miss Harrison, of Amenia, N. Y. h.as made an imita- tion Leghorn for which she was offered §150. She was ten weeks in comph ting Ihe work. M. Guy Duplanfier, of Louisiana, has invented n machine for makirg bricks, which, it is said, w ill do as much wt>rk as 30 men. Also, another machine for piercing or morticing fence poits, in which he applies the power of horses, as it is said, to great advantage. Rot in Cotloju — A Mississippi Cotton Planter, who was curious enough to watch the motions of a species of bug hovering round the cotton trees, has published, in the Port Gibson paper the result of his observations, by which it appears that the rot in coltcri is caused by the slini: of a bug, which, piercing the tender covering of Ihe bov.l, in its unripe state, produces, in tlie course of three days, the elecay of the Vowl. Gigantic Vegelahle. — A beet which grew in jhc gar- den of Mr. Daniel Kramer, of Northampton, Pa. and which is now to be seen at his house, weighs fifteen pounds and a half, and measures at the thickest part thirty-fcur inches and a half", and somewhat lower down, twenty-seven inches. Who can beat this i' Philadelphia Vnion. A^s. Massachusetts, N. Hampshire, and we believe every state in New England can beat the Pennsylvania beet all hollow. Mr. Leonard Pratt, of Pembroke, N. H. raised a beet weighing 22 pounds, and Mr. E. N. Chadwick, of Hanover, Mass. a beet which weighed 21 pounds. Therefore the Pennsylvania beet is ly DP means the beat of all tcets. 136 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. FOR THE NEW ENGLAND fARMl-R. THE SCOLDIKG WIFE.—^I Stntimtnlal Sonnet. Hoarse thunder howls, blue lightniiij; flashes, Against llie stars vex'd ocean dashes, Karth, sky and sea, fire, water, air. Like tipsy Irish, at a Fair, Are all eng;agM in one great clatter, And every particle of matter Seems warring wild with every other To make one nniversal pother ! The great glnl)e rent, the chasm displays All Pluto's regions in a blaze, Karlhquakes have split the pole to shivers, And all the solar system quivers ! But surely this vast (lemcntal strife Is naught contrasted with a scolding wife. FOR THE NEW ENOI.AJTD FARMER. A special good reason for Sclf-Pii^iig. Jack is a curious kind of elf, ^Vho, though he likes to puff himself. Does it from principle, not pride ; He knows his worth, like insect small Can never be discern"d at all, Unless 'tis greatly magnified. roR THE NEW ENGLAND FARMER. IMPROMPTU, On teeing a purse-prnvif bbickheud taking a solitary airing in Uis oun coach. Things have come, uow-a-days, to a pitifid pass, Since it takes two fine horses to draw one ^ ilf ass I Private happiness is the only sure and per- manent basis of public prosperity. Every day feelings and iire-side enjoyments decide the tenor of our lives, and he who values them most plays the best stake for happiness. Madam Terein, a lady of erudition and dis- cernment, gave to Marmontel, ivhcn he ivas a young man, a piece of advice witli respect to the managetnent of authorship, which ought to be a perpetual lesson to all writers by profes- sion. " Secure yourself." said she, " a liveli- hood, independent of literary successes ; and put into the lottery only the overplus of your time ; for wo to him who depends solely on his pen ! — nothing is more casual. The man who makes shoos is sure of his wages ; but the man who writes a book is never sure of anj' thing." It is not necessary in order to bo an agreea- ble companion tliat you be cither eloquent or witt}', or possessed of any rare or superior tal- ents ; all that society demands of you is that you be complaisant without meanness, polite without flattery, steady without rudeness, and cheerful without aftected gaiety. Court the company, of the learned, and the conversation of the aged ; their discourse is ol- ton more useful than any book you can read. It is a sure sign of want of ivit, when one is always, attempting to shew it. The matrimonial blacksmith of GrefnaGreen, having bound an old lady, and a youth of unra- zored chin in the silken bands of matrimony, observed to a friend, " 1 have just tied a with- ered stick and a green twig together with a cobweb." From the Connecticut Mirror. I The Hon. Tristram Burges, of Providence, delivered an Address in August last, to the K. I. Society lor the Kncouragemcnt of Domestic Industry, and a copy has been sent by Messrs. .Miller &, llutchens, to the Hartford County Ag- ricultural Society. The following is part of it: " I fear we shall fuul, we are, taken in a mass, about such farmers as our forefathers were when they migrated to this country. They, we know, were such farmers as their lathers were when they left England. Hut all the capital improve- ments in agriculture, have been made, in that country, since the settlement of this. If it were in the course of nature for the ven- erable pilgrims of Plymouth, again to land on the shores of that island, they would not know the fields of their native country. Not many years before they migrated, the London market ivas su[>plied with vegetables from Flanders, and the English climate and soil were deemed incapable of producing thetn. At this time, 14,000 acres are appropriated to gardening in the immediate neighborhood of that metropolis, and the vegetables and iruit raised on those lands are sold in that city for a sum little short of four millions of dollars per annum. The rent of land in the county of Norfolk, the least fer- tile, but the best farmed district of England, has increased w itiiin the memory of man, eight fold. The rent roll of Mr. Coke, the great Norfolk farmer, has, in that time, risen from five to 40,000/. per annum. This has been done, not by grinding his tenants, but by enriching them ; by granting them leases of his lands for twenty years ; and by giving them, in his own farming, a great example of the immense agricultural improvements which may be made, even in the sands of Norfolk, by industry, skill and capital. Scotch farming has come into existence, long since Roger Williams paddled his canoe round Fox Point. In those days, the Thistle was the national emblem of Scotland. They fought un- der it in war, and foraged upon it in peace. But the unpoetical farmers of Caledonia have lost all delight in pursuing the thistle's heard. with the heroes of Ossian ; or sleeping on the blooming hether with the buccanicrs of Roder- ick Dlui. They have ploughed down all those tilings, vvjiich look so pretty, and smell so sweet in song, and given up those haunts of Ihc muses to plain English barley and wheat ; Dutch and Swedish turnips; the clover of Flanders, and the Shamrock of Ireland. In the progress of tlieso improvements, these men have done, what Sculchmen thiidi an essential service to that country; but Avhat American firmers would think a curse to this — they have, by increasing a demand for labor, nearly doubled the price of it ; but these industrious, intelligent Scotchmen, with their national prudence, have contrived, not only to pay this augmented price of labor, but to replace all their capital, and add to it, at least foiiileen per cent, per annum. A farmer in the Lothians of Scotland, who cultivates 700 acres of land at a rent off/. 10s. sterling per acre, will, at the end of the year, have in his pocket, clear of all cx])enses, more than ;j^3.500. He has so much to add to his capital, and to enable him to extend his cultivation." Flora the Plymouth (England) Telegraph. Wc last week noticed an invention by a gen- tleman of Plymouth for conveying the electric fluid by means of a copper conductor lixed ii the masts, through the bottom of ships. Insteai of being ascribed to Mr. T. Harris, Jr. as thei stated, it should have been ftlr. \V. S. Harris.— The experiment took place on Monday last, oi hoard the Caledonia, in the presence of th( Navy Board, Sir A. Cochrane, Commissione Shield, several Captains in the Navy, and ihi principal officers of the Dock-yard, "in the fol lowing manner : The Louisa cutter having liai a temporary mast and topmast lilted with a cop per conductor, according to Mr. Harris's plan was moored astern of the Caledonia, and at thi distance of eighty feet from the cutter a boa was stationed with a small brass howitzer. Oi the tiller-head of the Caledonia were place- the electrical machine and an electrical jai with the outer coating of which a line was con nected, having a metallic wire woven in it this line being carried out of the starboard wic dow of the wardroom, terminated in an iiisulal ed pointed wire in the immediate vicinity c the touch-hole of the howitzer: a similar lin was passed from the larboard window, whic communicated with the mast-head of the cuttei and at the termination of the bolt through th keel a chain was attached, connected with an( ther insulated pointed wire in the boat, place in the vicinity of the touch-hole — the space be tween the insulated points being the only intei val in a circuit of about 300 feet, from the po itive to the negative side of the jar. Som gunpowder being jilaced in contact with th conductor in the cutter, and the priming in tl, interval of the insulated points, the jar w; charged, and the line attached to the mast-her of the cutter being brought into contact wit the positive or inside of the jar, a discharge ■ electric matter followed, which was passed I the line to the mast-head, and by the conducti through the powder to the chain in the wate by which it was conveyed to the interrupt! communication in the boat, where it passed the lorm of a spark, and discharging the howi zer, returned to the negative or outside of tl jar by the line leading into the starboard wi dow, thereby demonstrating that a quantity electric matter had been ])assed by the condu tor through the powder (without igniting it) contact with the mast of the cutter, sufficient discharge the howitzer. Mr. Harris then d lached the communication between the keel the cutter and the positive wire in the hot leaving that wire to communicate with the w ler only ; hut this interruption did not impec or divert the charge, as the discharge of tl howitzer was elfected with equal success as the first instance, the water forming the on conductor from the cutter to the boat. In ordi to demonstrate that a trilling fracture or inte ! ruption in the conductor would not be impo tant, it was cut through with a saw ; but tl' |>roduced no material injury to its coiiduct power. These trials, carried on under the disad* tages of unfavorable weather, could not l of convincing all jiresent of its efficacy, ; called forth the decided approbation of ' Navy Board in particular, wliich was cvim by Sir T. B. I\lartin requesting Mr. Harri.- superintend the equipment of the Minden ; and Java frigate, preparatory to its general i troduction into tlie navy. The science of love is the philosophy of the heart. NEW ENGLAND FARMER. Published every Saturday, by THOMAS W. SHEPAKU, Ro»c-r3' linKdins:, Congr.-ss Street, Ho.trm ; at i'2J,D per aim. in a^liaiu i-, nr ^itM at the close of the year. Vol. I. BOSTON, SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 1822. No. 18. DR. MITCHELL'S ADDRESS, Delivered before the J\'. York Agricultural Society, November 12, liS22. Gentlemen of the Society, and Fellow Citizens, Addresses, on occasions like this, have become so common, that it is almost to be regretted (he call for them has not ceased. Yet it seems diffi- cult to close such a scene as the present, wilh- eut offerings a few observations, particularly as they are prompted by the surrounding; objects. Indeed, if remarks on the improvements alreroductiveness of the earth. Philosophers have investigated its nature and proi)erties, to find out the secret spell by which it works ; and while some have attributed the effect to its power of decomposing putrescible matter, or to its artinity for carbonic acid, others have ascrib- ed it to the change effected on the constitution of the soil. All, however, are agreed, th.it no land, after its tirst and natural richness has been exhausted by cropping, can continue fertile with- Qut a mixture of this fossil. Its use was the first thing which revived English agriculture af- ter it had long languished in the most ahjected state ; and the first thing too, which raised Scot- land to opulence and independence. Lime, a.s a manure, has found its way into France and Ger- jnaoy; and it is blended with the sfiil along the shores of the Ualtic. In southern latitudes this mineral manure is more generally applied, eith- er incorporated with clay in the shape of marl, or combined with the sulphuric acid in that of gypsum. Lime is found of extremely different qualities ; and in proportion as science comes to enlighten our practice, we will turn our attention to the character of the rock from which this fossil is taken. Pure limestone consists of nine parts of carbonic acid, and eleven of calcareous earth ; and of course, in the process of burning — which is employed solely to expel the acid by the ac- tion of red heat, it will lose 9-20ths of its spe- cific weight as drawn from the kiln. Shells of first quality will require more than their own weight of water to slake them ; and every one bushel, when reduced to powder, will measure three. When the liaie is intermixed with sand, fliut, or clay, its los.s in calcination will be less. the shells will yield a smaller proportion of powder, and what is still more curious, will re- quire a less quantity of water. As there are great inequalities in the mixture of these for- eign ingredients, so the proikict in powder and the quantity of water used in slaking, maybe employed as certain measures of the value of the limestone. — The color, to a certain extent also, ascertains the purity ; but this cannot be relied on infalhbly, as there may be a portion of magnesia in combination, which, on account of its equal whiteness, cannot be discriminated by the eye. It is plain, that when our different cocks come to be wrought, these tests will be of infinite advantage, and point out to the farmer and mason, those which will yield the most cal- careous earth — the substance which both of them are in quest of, for the purposes of their respec- tive arts. To the farmer it is an object, to cart the lime, when fresh from the kiln. By exposure to the atmosphere, this earth attracts carbonic acid, and returns to its original weight, usually in the proportion of a twentieth part of each of the first five or six dnys ; but if spread out to the air, recovers it much more rapidily. AVhile it is light of carriage, it should be transported to the soil with which it is intended to be mixed, in 'tanlly slaked, and then scattered and harrowed on the surface. Delay here is of perniciou? tendency if inert vegetable matter is to be acted on ; as the causticity of the lime or its power of decomposing animal or vegetable matter, is most active in its simple .ftate, before its affinity has been exerted on the carbonic ncid of the at- mosphere : but if the application is meant to im- prove the earthy texture of the soil, or to sup- ply calcareous matter to the vegetable organiza- tion, there is no necessity for such haste, as this tossil, considered as a carbonate, is of infinite value to the farmer, and moreover is supposed by some inquirers to be peculiarly useful in this latter case. Directions* are even given against using it in the former particularly in soils rich in putrescent manure, because it lessens the so- lubility of those compound products that go di- rectly to the nutriment of the plant. *i:iavy''3 .Agricultural Chemistry, page 320, 321. Letters of Agricola . From the Providence .lourral. The President of our I'niversity has, from experiments in Ilydraulicks. discovered, an im- provement in Flumes, which, at mist mills, per- haps all, will increase the torce of the water, and. at some will double or treble it. Where mills are now in operation, this improvement may produce a small expense. For this discov- ery, he has, we learn, obtained Letters Patent from the President of the United States. Rice Glue. — An elegant cement may be made from rice flour, which is at present used for that purpose, in China and Japan. It is only neces- sary to mix the rice llour intimately with cold water, and gently simmer it over the fire ; w hen it readily formr a delicate and durable cement, not only answering all the purposes of common paste, but admirably adapted for joining togeth- er paper,cards, Uc. in forming the various beauti- ful and tasteful ornaments which afford so much employment and amusement to the ladies. — When made of the consistence of plastic clay, models, busts, basso relievos, Szc. may be formed and the articles when dry are susceptible of a high polish and are very durable. Portland Gazette. MnniiJ'actures 4* Agriculticrnl varieties. — Among the articles which obtained premiums at a late agricultural fair in Alleghany county, (Penn.) were Japanned Waiters and Trays, made at Pittsburgh; CfLstor Oil, from fifteen acres of beans raised in that county ; and Segars from tobacco also raised in that county. A", r. Statesman. 139 IVatrr. — .\ late English jiajier says. " Recent experiments, in iiiany parts of England, have proved, that supjilies of the best water may be obtained by properly boring the earth to a suf- ficient depth. The expense appears to be trif- ling, while the result is of the highest impor- tance to all landed property. Fountains liavc been made in parishes where water has usually been sold by the gallon, which yield a constaii' supply, the year round, of a hogshead per hour." This appears ofoliable enough, when \ve ca!! to mind how s,ilt water is procured througlioi:' the western slates of the union. .^ iVes'j Regisic.- On Wednesd.\y last, n highly interesting o.\ pcriment was made with a machine, con«tiuctL(l by Messrs. Fenton, Murray and Wood, of thi^ place, under the direction of Mr. .fohn Blenkins- hop, the patentee, for the purpose of substitu- ting the agency of steam tor the use of iior.-- es in the conveyance of coals on the iron rail way. from the mines of .T. C. Brandling. Esq. at Middlctown, to Leeds. This machine if, in fact, a steam-engine of four horses' power, which, with the assistance of cranks turning a cog wheel, and iron cogs placed at one side of a rail way is capable of moving, when lightly load- ed, at the speed of ten miles an hour. At four o'clock in the afternoon, the machine ran from the Coal-staith to the top of Hunslet- moor, where six, and afterwards eight waggons of coals, each weighing 3 l-l tons, were hook- ed to the back part. — With this immense weight, to which as it approached this town was super- added about filly of the spectators mounted upon the waggons, it set off on its return to tlie'coal- staith, and performed the journey, a distance ol about a mile and a half, principally on a dead level, in twenty three minutes, without even the slightest accident. The experiment, which was wilnessi-d by thousands of spectators, was crowned « ilh complete success ; and when it is considered ihat this invention is applicable to al! rail-roaer. Observation has not yet been em- ployed in the search for those treasures wliicii are hidden in the deep recesses of our hills, or iu the caverns of the rocks. The hammar of the Mineralogist, whose peculiar province it is to discover the hiding places of the gera and the metal, has never yet been heard in our shady forests or silent valleys. The eye of curiosity lias not yet explored those situationfi, where the • ires were deposited when the mountains were piled upon their foundations. It cannot be said that this section of our country is rich in miner- als, for there is at present too little known of t!io:.: beneath its surface, to justify the asser- tion. Certain it is, that it possesses some which must form important articles of commerce, of manul'acturc, and increase the wealth and re- .sources of its industrious and prosperous inhabit- ants. No regular examination has yet taken place, and for our knowledge of those which most readily present themselves to notice, wc ure indebted to accidental curiosity. The art of mining has as yet received but lit- tle attention in this country. Young and grow- ing as it is, labour is occupied in the clearing and improvement of the earth. It is not to be expected that were all are busied in strew- ing the' seed into the furrow and gathering in the abundance of a generous harvest, that re- searches which are generally, though errone- ously considered as uncertain and hazardous, should be undertaken, or if commenced that they should be prosecuted with the skill and zeal so essential to a successful issue. Popular Bupcrstilion has gu;\rded tbc beds of the jewels with so many fanciful beings, the offspring of | heated imaginatien, and peopled the d-ark habi- tation, of those metals whose utility as media of I exchange, depends entirely upon their scarcity,' with so many protecting spirits, that it requires no small degree of courage in adventuring to ^ invade the dominions of those powers, who! were supposed to be ready to inflict punishments ' on those who would steal from them the treas-| ures they are commissioned to keep. It is amus-l ing to find how many stratagems credulity and ignorance have put in jiractice, to deceive their ' vigilance. Some have dug deep at midnight,! in places where a little experience must have i convinced them, that nothing existed to reward their toil, thinking these subterraneous divini- ties might be then slumbering on their posts, and afterwards have laid the burden of their dis- appointment upon the omission of some mys- terious ceremony, instead of fathering it upon their own folly. The art of farming is a distinct profession, and requires experience for its prac- tice. Nor is an acquaintance with its rules val- uable to the fanner, except as furnishing him with an uncommon method of rendering his farm productive. If portions of it are barren in consequence of mineral substances, instead of wasting labour in the attempt to render its soil fruitful, he may go beneath and gather crops more valuable than those of tho corn or pota- toe. One ot the sinews of agriculture, indeed the spring which sets all its various implements and machines in motion, is Silver. This article has been a native of Worcester County. In the year 1751, a vein of this metal in combination with iron and lead, was discovered in the shire town passing down into a hard rock of that description denominated Quartz. A shaft was sunk to a considerable depth, by a company formed for the purpose of working a mine on the spot. — Tradition does not inform us why it was aban- doned ; whether on account of the small quanti- ty of ore obtained, the expense of excavation, or the want of sufticient skill in those employed. Examination ot the specimens which are still found about the mouth of the opening, show's that about 2 parts of 100 are silver, the re- mainder Iron, Lead, Sulphur and Arsenic. How far it is fair to judge of the ore as it came from the mine, by these pieces, which were undoubt- edly thrown aside at the time of working it, as not suitable for melting, it is not easy to decide. It is said that the same metal was found at other places not only in the same town but in other parts of the county. — Lead has been noticed iu union with other minerals, but not in quantities sufficient to induce the belief that it could ever become important. It is a remarkable fact that Iron, the mineral most useful to man, is most widely diffused over the earth. Forming as it does a necessary of his existence, employed as it is in every art, being the material for supplying the instruments for every manufacture, it is most providential that it should be thus distributed over the face of the globe. In this county it exists in almost every stone, ledge, and hill. It gives a bright red to our walls, it tinges our soils with a yel- lovver shade, it communicates its taste to many of our springs, and with sulphur forms those beautit'ul cubes which from their color and lus- tre might be easily mistaken for gold. Furnaces have beea erected in somo parts, and the abun- i dace of the metal would justify the establish- ment of many more. Arsenic is also found, not in its native and pure state, but in union with other metals, com- municating to them a white color and a peculiar odour. Lime is most important in its economical a[K plication to the common purposes of life. Eve-j ry one knows its use in architecture and how much it contributes to the durability and con- venience of buildings. .Ml are apprised of the advantages resulting from its agency, in increas-< ing the harvests, and forwarding the maturity ofl vesretables. This mineral in the state of thel Carbonate, is found in the Northern part of Worcester county. When employed as a ce- ment, it is not inferior to the Lime of any oth- er section. As yet it has not been used as a manure long enough to test its properties.— From the quantity of Magnesia ivith which it is mixed, its success on some soils would be doubts ful. Clay is one of the most useful substrata of our meadows at a certain depth. Besides the ease' with which it is converted into a material fop constructing edifices, it is valuable for changing the texture of those fields which do not retail moisture. The Marl which is prized so highly in those situations where it can be obtained, is Composed of Clay and Lime. Of the good qual- ities of this earth, and of the astonishing effectsi which it has produceil, much has been said, by foreign writers. As the two ingredients which are its components, exist in their separate state, in abundance, it is not a very rash prediction, that they may be found united in such propor- tions, as to form a substance of all others, most necessary to the Farmer. The conclusion is so rational that they may be found thus mixed, from the fact that minerals readily change characters and intermix freely with each other, that it would well repay the time and attention neces- sary for the examination of our argillaceous earths. The same remark is applicable to the Plaster of Paris (-r Sulphate of Lime. Sulphur or its acid, combined with Iron, glitters on almost ev- ery wall, or tinges the rocks with its yellow hue, and Lime is found in vast beds in this coun- ty. From these circumstances, a strong proba- bility results, that there are situations, where the hand of Nature may have mingled together these ingredients, and that the Gypsum may be obtained nearer than Nova Scotia, and at a less expense than the price it would command, even when transported by water. That these assumptions have no better foun- dation than conjecture, must be confessed. How far they are reasonable every one can decide for himself Two minerals are seldom found in the same locality, entirely separate from each other. A transition carries one into the other, so that it is diflicult to determine where one ends and the other begins. In these situations the qualities of both are blended together. The af- finities which some substances have for others dispose them readily to unite. The subject de- serves some attention, and should the opinions that have been advanced be established by ex- perience, the advantage would exceed calcula- tion. The enumeration will be continued in our nest number. A FAUMEI^ NEW ENGLAND FARiMF.R. 141 FACTS AND OBSKUVATIONS RF.l.ATINU TO AGRICULTURE & DOMESTIC ECONOMY. FOa THE NEW ENGLAND FARMER. FRUIT TREES.- "The seeds of a nursery should be planted n rows live or six icet apart, that carrots, po- atoes, or bush beans may be planted between hem. This will be an inducement to keep the lursery clean. Cherries, pe.iches, plums, and ither stone fruit, sheuld be planted while the tones are moist, or with the meat on them. In his way they come up with more certainty. It s a good practice to plant the seeds in beds, ind to remove the young- trees to the nursery. This will give an opportunity of early removing ;he tap root, and of increasing and directing the lateral roots. The dwarfs in a nursery are not ivortli cultivating, and ought to be removed ; there are commonly enough thrifty trees with- aut them. " In taking up trees, care should be used not to injure the roots. The tap roots should be cut off, the broken roots pruned with a sharp knife, and the lateral roots should be carefully preserved, and should have suiBcient room in the ground to spread. The trees when set out should have the same aspect, as when standing in the nursery. It is useful to place a small quantity of hay or straw around them, to pre- vent the sun iVom taking up too much of the moisture, and to keep the ground from becom- ing dry and hard. This should be removed before snow falls, lest it harbor mice. On dry land, not exposed to be moved by frost, trans- planting is safest and best in autumn; otherwise fin the spring. Trees are more thrifty, will J !)ear sooner, and more plentifully, near fences, 1 and will less incommode the cultivation of the I field. t " In forming the head of the tree, all the limbs, which will be likely to rub across other < limbs, should be early removed. By neglect- ing to do this in season, the tree may be injur- j cd by causing large wounds. By pruning when jj the circulation is most active, the wounds will J soonest be healed. It is safest, when the wounds are large, to cover them with some kind of plaister to keep out the water and air, and pre- vent rotting. Mature trees, it is said, will pro- duce more and fairer fruit by being pruned when in blossom. When mice have injured the bark, it is use- ful to cover the wound with dirt, or some kind of plaister. When entirely girdled, the tree may be preserved by connecting the under and upper lips of the bark with a suitable number of scions. It is a good preservation against in- printer's ink. It is therefore recommended for cleaning old books and prints. Half an ounce of red lead being added to three ounces of com- mon muriatic aciil renders it tit for this use. If indigo and oxid of manganese be added to com- mon ink, it will prevent its being clTacod by muriatic acid. The citric acid (lemon juice) is proper for removing ink-stains from linen, but they are best removed soon after they occur. It' they remain long in tiie cloth, the iron in the ink acquires that degree of oxidizenient, which renders it insoluble in acids. When ink stains have thus become what are called iron moulds, they may be removed by oxalic acid (a substance extracted from sorrel) or by first washing them with a sulphuret of potash (formed by triturat- ing or pounding together equal parts of sulphur and pure potash, till the mixture becomes green) and then applying the citric acid as usual. ANTIDOTE AGAINST CONTAGION. An English chemical work of high authority, states that " accounts have been received from Spain, that in the midst of the dreadful conta- gion which reigned in that country, the inhabi- tants of those houses, where fumigations of chlorine gas* were used, had no attacks of the sickness, and enjoyed the best health. Care must be taken in the use of this gas, because it is so suffocating that it cannot be breathed with- out injury." , juries by mice, to tread down the snow, when 1 it first falls, for a foot or two about the tree."* Addrtss by Rcr. Abitl Abbot, to the Essex Agricultural Society. J * For a recipe for preserving trees from mice, see t So. 10, p. 123. jl TO REMOVE FRUW STAINS OR IRON MOULDS FP.OM .1 LINEN OR COTTON CLOTHS AND OTHER SUBSTANCES. || Moisten the spot with water, and hold it in I the fumes of a brimstone match. If a red rose ^ be held in the fumes of a brimstone match, the color will soon begin to change, and at length . the flower will become white. Muriatic acid (spirit of sea salt) removes the Jteins of common ialc, but it does not atiect *■ Clilorine gas i? produced by distilling a mixture of manganese, cojiimon salt, sulphuric acid aud water See farkes's Chemical Essays, lol. iv, p. 68. SUBSTITUTE FOR YEAST. Carbonate of ammonia (or the kind of saline substance which is used in smelling bottles) is now much used by Jbakers in England, as a sub- stitute for yeasl. RECIPE FOR TRESERVING LEMON JUICE OR HME JUICE. Strain the juice through fine muslin or filter- ing paper, and add as much loaf sugar as is nec- essary to make it sweet ; then put it in a bottle which must be nearly filled, corked, waxed, tied over With wet bladder, and put info boiling water for an hour. Let it cool gradual!}', and put it by for use. — Domestic Encyclopedia. RECIPES FOR FURIFVING PUTRID WATER. If putrid water be agitated with a small quan- tity of magnesia it will lose its bad taste and smell in a few minutes. Alum may likewise be used for tlio purpose of purifying and sweeten- ing water which has become foetid and unfit for use. Each gallon of ' ater requires, according to its impui-.ty, only from five to ten grains of calcined alum, and double or treble that pro- portion of charcoal, in order to render the most offensive water perfectly sweet and pellucid. The ingredients, however, ought to be preser- ved in close vessel', or their efficacy will be considerably dimioished. CLASS VESSELS, HOW PURIFIED. All sorts of glass vessels and other utensils may be purified from long retained smells of every kind, in the easiest and most perfect manner, by well rinsing them out with charcoal powder, after the grosser impurities have been scoured off with sand and potash. OrdVs Journal, vol, 2, p. 170. WEILS, HOW FREED FROM FIXED AIR. Carbonic acid gas, or fixed air, so often occu- pies the bottom of wells, that workmen ought never to venture into siirh places, without jire- viously letting down a lighted candle. If the candle burn*, they may enter with safety ; if not a {piantity of (|uick lime should b<- let down in buckets, and gradually sprinkled with water. ;\s the lime slacks it w\\\ gradually absorb car- bonic acid gas, and the workmen may afterwards descend in safety. THE BEST MODE OF ADMINISTERING OPIUM. Citric acid, [lemon juice] has been found, within a few jears to be useful in medicine. It is said that the largest dose of opium may be checked in its narcotic eifects, if a proper (juaii- lity of citric acid be taken with it ; and that with this addition, it induces cheerfulness, in- stead of stupefaction, succeeded by gentle and refreshing sleep. Parkes^s Chemical Catechism, p. 171, 10th ed. When farmers employ a great deal of lime, it sometimes happens that their horses' feet are burnt by it, which is extremely troublesome, and sometimes proves even fatal to the poor animals ;* a method of preventing or remedying that circumstance will therefore be of use. The best method of preventing any inconve- nience of this sort, is to spread the lime, when in its powdery state, upon the field as evenly as possible, and allow it to lie in that state sometime before you begin to plough it. If the lime has been in fine powder it will have become effete in a week or so ; after which tune it will be as little corrosive as any kind of common earth, so that the horses may work among it with perfect safety — but if it has been suffered to run into clods before it was spread, lhesc,^f not broken small, will be longer in ab- sorbing their air, and, of consequence, will re- main longer in an acrid state, so that in that case the ploughing may be deferred a week or so longer ; nor will it then be so perfectly safe as the other. But if it becomes necessary at any time to plough in the lime immediately after it is spread, take care to do it only when the soil is perfect- ly dry ; and in leading your horses to the plough, take care to prevent them from going through any wet place, so as to wet their hoofs or an- cles ; for lime acts not at all upon any dry sub- stance— but when it is in its acrid caustic state, it would corrode the hair and flesh in a mo- ment, if it has access to water. As soon as the horses are unharnessed, keep their feet dry till you have got them carefully brushed, so as to wipe away all the dry powdery lime that may adhere to them ; and if the least shower should fall, unyoke your horses immediately, and take them off the field. But in case of any accident, by which a horse or man that is working among lime should be scalded by it, it is always advisable for every farmer, who has work of that kind going for- ward, to keep a tub of very sour milk or whey in some place, ready to wash the part affected with it, which will quickly destroy the poignan- cy of the lime, and prevent the mischief that would otherwise ^rise from it. The sourer the * 1 have known several horses actually killed by this means, aiKl others so disabled as never to be perlectly wtll afterwards. HI NEW ENGLAND FARMER. milk or uhey is, the better it ivill be for this purpose ; it ought therefore to he long kept.* Tor want of this vincarar wil! produce the same effect, or very stale urine will he of use — but the milk or ivhey is the cheapest ami best rem- edy', and ought alwnys to be in readiness. Aiuhrsoii's Essays, * Not too lonj Irst it undcr|ro the piitrlJ fermenta- tion wlii.-h will vholesome I'ondiment for food. Sir William Fordyce ^ives an account of a victualler who acquired a large fortune from possessing a secret that had ena- bled him to send out to the Indies provisions in a better state of preservation than any others of the trade. His whole secret was that of put- ting a smnll quantity of n:jriatic acid into each cask. — I'arkcs^s Chemical Calcchisrn. A steel instrument may be distinguished from an iron one thus : — If a drop of nitric acid be let fall upon it, it will occasion a black spot if it be steel, but »¥i!l not have this effect 11 it be Wrought iron. The following directions ai'e recommended in cases of the burning of iemaies, by their clothes having caught fire. If no person is present to assist her, she may relieve hersell by throwing her clothes over her head, and lay- ing down and rolling upon them. She tnust by no means run away, and flame always tending upwards, much of the mischief will be prevent- ed if a person in that unfortunate situation will throw herself on the ground, and if possible roll about her a carpet, hearth rug, &c. If another person be present, then, without any regard to delicacy, such person should instantly pass the hand under all the clothes to the lowest gar- ment, and raise the whole togetlver, and close them over the hedd, by which, in an instant almost, the flame will be indubitably extinguish- ed. This is the most expeditious and etlectual method of preventing the dire effects of a terri- ble accident which is perpetually occurring. [Or, roll the person in the carpet. This is one of the many accidents owing to the prepos- terous customs of open fire places, and muslin dresses in winter. — T. C] Domestic Encyclopediti. have fruit before they run half (hat distance, 1 concluded there was a natural reason for its be- ing so. And in 1819 I took a cucumber and split it lengthwise and sub-divided it into three equal parts across the fruit, and kept the seeds carefully apart, tho.«e in the end near the vine, I m:irked But seeds, and those from the centre. Middle seeds, and tho,-e from the end on which the bloom grew. Top seeds, and I planted them separately, in new ground, well manured for the e.tpcriroent in (he spring of 1820; I care- fully attended to three hills from seeds of each part of the fruit, divided as stated above, the hills being about twelve feet apart. All of the plants were alike tiourishing ; the vines from the But seeds ran from eight to ten feet before any fruit appeared, and these were small, with a neck ; the vines from the Middle seeds ran from four to six feet before fVuit appeared ; the fruit was better and without a neck and four fold; the vines from the Top seeds prod\iced fruit large, fine and in abundance, and the tirst fruit Was on the third joiut of the vine from the surface of the ground. 1 have continued to save seeds from the top or bloom end, and now have cucumbers on the tirst and second joint, kc, 1 have been endeav- ouring to make the experiment on all kinds of vine fruit; corn and peas likewise, but the cut worms have in a great measure, disappointed me ; notwithstanding this 1 have succeeded so far as to satisfy myself that real ndvantages may be gained by making such selections of seeds. 1 would have given the above account last year, but 1 wished to carry the ex[)Criment complete- ly through a variety of kinds, kc. If it is new, or you consider it worthy attention, you are at liberty to give it an insertion in your paper. I am your's with esteem, .SAMUEL GAKRLSON. THE FARMER. rts little of the anatomy of a horse, or the symptoi character, or correct mode of treating his diseases, J (hey iinow about the soil, climate, and productions f one of Herschell's planets. The Veterinary art, u . withstanding its acknowledged importance, seems) he considired as an art for which no apprenticesh and a science for which no study is requisite. Th who profess any knowledge of the diseases of don:, animals, for the most part, either pretend to ki, what they do not know, and are therefore a dangerr .species of impostors, or their knowledge must have • bom utik Ihem, (since they have had no chance t- quire it) Mr. Locke's notions relative to innate id', the contrary notwithstanding. Indeed it cannot b- pt cted that the profcf'ors of any ;rt will make :•. ■ great acquisitions in the science appropriate to lli vocation if the art itself is held lu disrepute, and professors are ranked, by virtue of their calling, ia t low'st caste of the human species. People who r not respected are not apt to make themselves resp. < ' bir , and as long as a horje-dcctoT and a tow-doclor considered as terms at reproach, and an acquaint;,i with the diseases of domestic animals, as degrading the character of a biped, who aspires to be one of 1' " lords of creation," we must expect that ignor.inr temerity and cruelty will predominate ia one of t: most important departments of Domestic .ind Rur l.conomy. Physicians, till within a (articulxtrly nf lines. Allen Coiuily, Kentucky, Aug. 30. J. S. Suixtr.n, Ksq. , Dear Sir — I will now give you a short ac- count of an oxpcriment 1 made with vine fruit. Having for many years observed, that some pumpkins, water melons, cucunibors, and cym- blin vines run ten, twelve, and even tifteen ifeet Iwforo an}- fruit app'^arod, and that others would NEW SYSTEM QF SHOEING HORSES. We have lately perused with much satisfaction a treatise, entitled " jVtio Si/slem of Shoeing Horses, abridged from the Works of Joseph Goodtvin, i'eleri- narif Surgeon to His Majcst;/ George IV. and .Member nf the Rot/iil College nf Surgeons, Containing a Com- piri.ion between the English rtiid Frtnch methods, and Observations on the Diseases nf the Peet, connected letth Shoeing. To irhich arc added Observations 07i Bleeding and the Pulir ; a concise I'ieW of the Anatn- m,y of the f'oot^ A'otes, Rentarks, ic. lii/ John R. Brown, M. D. M. M. S. S." Ornamented with cuts. lioston : Wells & Lilly ; 12 mo. pp. 140. We do not pretend to be *reatly \-ersed in the sci- ence which is the subject of this little Treatise. We are, however, strongly impressed with the importance of the topics which it discusses, and know that it was originally compiled and abridged by gentlemen who are eminently competent to the tasks they have under- taken. In Finnco and in England public Schools or Colleges have been founded, patronized by the respective gov- ernments, rind eu'lowed with ample fund? for the pur- pose of teaching the useful art of Farriery, which in this country is left, wo fear, almost exclusively in the hands of men, v.ho are as ignorant of the most impor- tant principles of the art, which they pretend to prac- tice, as the inifortunatc animals they practice upon. V'itU them every thing i: '■'■guess trar/r," and they kuoiv ment, in sickness or health, of four-legged creat was exclusively committed, never appeared to be it pressed with the truth of another assertion of the san pott, " Act well your part, there all the honor lies ;" but, on the contrary, they viewed their part as a me: one, and of course it ^a? no matter how badly it w acted. In France and Great Britain, more correct ideas i this subject have been for some time prevalent. Grt men in those covintries are not ashamed to be usefu and useful men in the Veterinary art, as well as othi arts, are considered as great men. In France the knoi ledge of the diseases of domestic animals has long bee taught in public schools, patronized and supported I government. In England, near the close of the la century, a Veterinary College was founded under th auspices of some of the most distinguished and publi spirited characters. In this institution the whole r.i of medicine and surgery, so far as they relate to horse &c. together with the true principles of shoeing and < treating horses, while in a state fi' disease and of healt was, and we believe is still, publicly taught by a sui geon, who had made them his study, and who has tb designation of Professor of the Veterinary Art. Th Duke of Northumberland was President of this Col lege, and among the Vice Presidents were the Farls ( Grosvenor, Morton, Oxford and Rivers ; Sir Gcorg Baker, Sir T. C. Bunbury, Sir William Fordyce, an< the celebrated John Hunter, Esq. Pancras was fixei upon as the scite of this College, on account of its vici nitv to London. A handsome sum was allowed li; Parliament, annually, for the support of this Instiln tion. Mr. Coleman, who has been highly celebrate for his skill and veterinary science, was one of its Pro fcsEors ; and rf we mistake not, the author of the boo! from which the subject of this notice is abridged, i; npw one of the Professors of this College. The advan- tages, therefore, of tlie author of the English edition ol J i NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 113 i^ work wi;rc as great, probably, as any part of the jrkl can afford ; and that they have been faithfully ' 'iproved may be presumed from the responsibility at- rliud to his situation, and the talents which alone iM have recmaiaended to an office, that could nei- r liL' hereditary, purchased by money, nor held as a lie lir.'. We have no doubt but Dr. Krown has faitli- llv Librid'ed the original work, and by so doing is liiUd to the gratitude of every person in the commu- te wlio either owns or ever has occasion for the ser- •is of the valuable animal of which it treats. But, wi said before, we do not pretend to be conversant 111 r with the art or science which form the subject llii- work we are presuming to notice, and shall III lore conclude this article by appending thereto I Trcface of Dr. Brown, which explains the objects till' publication, and, we think, cannot leave a doubt its utility in the mind of any intelligent reader. •■ The Kditor of this abridgmcnf, has no other object it^ [Uiblication, than to meliorate the condition of al^ery useful animal, the Uorse, by presenting to c American public Mr. Goodwin^s New System of intiiii;. iMr. G.'s original work upon this subject is pi u^'ive ; and if republished in this country, proba- V would not be generally read by those who might • most benefited by it. It has therefore been thought I Ivisablc to abridge it. In this abridgment the editor vs been careful to select every thing, necessary to u to th:; mechanic, a full and practical knowledge Ur. Goodwin''s principles and method of shoeing, d it i» believed that it contains information, which li compensate any one who feels an interest in the ■ . for a careful and attentive perusal. \ circumstance very favorable to the adoption of •; w system of Shoeing, is that there can be no _ r of injury to the foot, from the cAonjf, if the bf properly put on, however long the horse may w been shod according to the method usually adopt- ia Ihis country. The principal alteration necessaiy gi be made in the form of the hoof is, at the toes, which usually thick, and not very likely to be injured by II y one tolerably acquainted with the anatomy of the j rts. A bad Workman may bring disgrace upon any stem of shoeing, or any other mechanical operation, ' wever good it may be ia itself, when properly exe- « I ted. " The editor of this abridgment does not take upon ,/l nself the responsibility of recommending Mr. Good- j^l n's system ofshoeing horses, nor will he feel himself .)( any degree implicated in its success. He presents * ' to the public, as it is, and the public will judge and * termine whether it be an improvement upon our pre- ii nt method of shoeing, or not. If no attempt be made , improve, certainly no improvement can be expected. 1 hatever the opinion of the reader may be with re- rd to the particular method of shoeing recommended ''' the author, it is believed that he will find the work i elf to contain much useful information, relatirt to >:, H subject on which it tfeats ; and it is hoped thai its blicalion, here, will serve a useful purpose." MAGNESIAN LIMESTONE. A writer, who has published several essays in the dlonal ^gis, at Worcester, which we have republish- , remarks, (see page MO,) that lime " in the state of ■ ■ Carbonate, is found in the Northern part of Wor- -ter county. 'When employed as a cement it is not lerior to the lime of any other section. As yet it has t been used as a manure long enough to test its pro- rlio. From the quantity of Magnesia with which it mixed, its success on some soils would be doubtful." e are glad to see the attention of that writer turned the subject of Mineralogy, as connected with Agri- Iture, and cheerfully contribute our mite of informa- >n to promote the object of his essays. Magnesian limestone has generally been supposed to hurtful to vegetation, but we believe that when it • 3 proved injurious, it has been in consequence of its ring been used to excess, or in its hoi or caustic state. Maga^sJa wh°a combined with carbonic aciJ gas. seems not to be prt'judicial to vegetation, and in soi!^ rich in manure, it is speedily supplied with this princi- ple from the decomposition of the manure. Under com- mon circumstances the lime from .Magnesian limestone is used in moderate quantities upon tertile soils in Lei- cestershire, Derbyshire, and Yorkshire, with good ef- fect; and it may be applied in greater quantities to soils containing very large proportions of vegetable matter." ^' Amongst some specimens of limestone which Lord Somerville put into my hands, two marked as peculi- arly good jiroved to be magnesian limestones. And lime made from the Breedon limestone is used in Leic- estershire, where it is called hot lime ; and I have been informed by farmers in the neighborhood of the quarry that they employed it advantageously in small quanti- ties, seldom more than 25 or 30 bushels to the acre. And that they find it may be used with good effect in larger quantities, upon rich laud. '■ A minute chemical consideration of this question will lead to its solution. " Magnesia has a much weaker attraction for car- bonic acid than lime, and will remain in the state of caustic, or calcined magnesia for many mouths, though exposed to the air. And as long as any caustic lime remains, the magnesia cannot be combined with car- bonic acid, for lime instantly attracts carbonic acid from magnesia. " When Magnesian limestone is burnt, the Magnesia is deprived of carbonic acid much sooner than the lime ; and if there is not much vegetable or animal matter in the soil, to supply by its decomposition carbonic acid, the Magnesia will remain for a long time in the caustic state ; and in this state acts as a poison to vegetables. One of the most fertile parts of Cornwall, the Lizard, is a district in which the soil contains mild Magnesian earth." — Davy's AgricuUural Chemistry. Quere. How would it answer to pulverize Magnes- ian limestone without burning, like Plaster of Paris and aijply it in the proportion of from 20 to 30 bushels to an .-•ere .' In Scotland, pounded limestone is used for ma- nure. FARMER SUMMARY OF FOREIGN AND DOMESTIC EVENTS. Success of the Greeks. — An article published in Paris, Oct. 12, states that shortly after a signal defeat of the Turks, they (the Turks) suddenly re-appeared at the foot of the Souli Mountains with 15,000 men. The sit- uation of the Greeks was then very precarious, and it was resolved to destroy their wives and children to pre- vent their falling into the hands of the enemy, and then rush upon them, and sell their lives as dearly as possi- ble. "I'his resolution reached the ears of the Greek wo- men, but they had influence to prevent its execution, and succeeded in restoring confidence amongst them. — It was then resolved that the women, (who insisted up- on it) should arm, and 800 were selected and armed. The men amounted to 3000. After invoking the Deity in their favour, they attacked the enemy, the women vieing with the men in feats of personal valour, and drove them far from Souli. The result of the action has been 1350 prisoners and four pieces of cannon. The loss of the Greeks was 167 men, and 17 women. The Great Congress of European Powers -sras expect- ed to meet at Verona on the Kith of October. A great earthquake has taken place at Aleppo, in Syria, which buried from 23 to 30,000 of the inhabi- tants and destroyed more than 20,000 houses. A war exists between the Turks and the Persians, and the latter have lately gained considerable advanta- ges over the former. Selim P.acha, with 15,000 men, has deserted from the Turks to the Persians. An instrument for ascertaining the longitude has been invented by a Mr. Ifarky, in Scotland, which it is said by competent judges will completely answer the purpose on land or at sea in calm v.^eather. The reward for the discovery of a complete instrument for ascertaining the longitude is 20,000 pounds, A i.o.iJon papi.r slates that iMr. Canning's principles are more liberal than those of the late Marquis of Lon- dondirry ; and that tliere is reason to believe him to be- so well iuclined to the Greek cause that he will under- take somethirig in its f;ivour. The story lately republished from the London Globe respecting a great secret discovired in the art of tan- ning, for which tile inventor had received a large suui of money, turns out to be fabulous. DoJart, in a commuiiicatiou to the lloyal Academy of Sciences at Paris, computed that an ( Im, e\cry year, at a medium, produces 3w!0,U00 seeds ; and the rel'ore myt-. poking it to live 110 years, 33 millions of seeds diuin" its whole age. Fern is far more lirlile in seeds. Harts- tongue produces in a year a million of seeds, These seeds must have a use beyond continuing their species. Since the discovery of the New-World, our English gardens have produced 2345 varieties of trees and plants Irom America, and upwards of 1700 from the Cape of Good Hope, in addition Ki many thousands which have been bro't from China, the East Indies, New-Holland, various parts of Africa, Asia, and Europe ; until Ihelijt of plants now cultivated in this country ixceeds liiO,000 varieties. — hundon pa/jtr. The Annual Meeting of the Plymouth Agricultural Society was holden at Plymouth, on the 20lh of Novem- ber, inst. Daniel Howard, Fsq. was chosen President, and P^ev. Morril Allen, and Abiel Washburn, Esq. Vice Presidents. The premiums awarded were to Samuel A. Turner of Scituate, lor compost manure $15 — Col. B. Murdock of Wartham, for the best crop of hay $10 — William Jackson, Esq. of Plymouth, for the best crop of wheat $10 — Leonard Hill of Bridgewater, for the best crop of oats $8, and for the best crop of potatoes $7 — Solomon Alden of Bridgew.ater, best crop of corn $10 — Alpheus Forbes of Bridgewater, 2d premium for compost manure $10 — .lacob Thompson of Middle- borough, for the best six lambs $5. In Virginia a two year old heifer has a calf six weeks old which weighs 105 lbs. Cotton, of a quality in no way inferior to that which is brought from the South has been raised this year at Oyster bay, L. I. The Baltimore Morning Chronicle of November IGlh, says " it would not be much too early to hear the sleigh bells enlivening pur streets, and yet so extraordinary is. the season, tViat we yesterday saw ripe Cherries that were plucked from a tree in this city." Fuller's Earth. — The Mobile Alabama Register men- tions that Fuller's earth had been discovered in that vicinity of a superior quality, and such as will answer every purpose to which that substance is usually ap- plied. A quarry of marble, of a most beautiful and delicate grain, and said to be equal to the Italian has lately been discovered in Lancaster County, Penn. A meeting was held at New- York, on the 15th inst. to form a Woollen Manufacturers' Society. This socie- ty proposes to give premiums for the best specimens, and to establish regular Fairs in the city, for the exhi- bition and sale of woollen fabficks. A Patent Bedstead is advertised in New- York, which may be taken down or set up in one minute, without the use of tools, and does not contain the least harbor for bugs or dirt. The Court House In Northampton was destroyed by fire on the 20th inst. Sjtontaneous Combustion. — Within a month past there have been three instances of spontaneous combustion in large masses of coal in our Navy Yards — at this place, at New- York, and Portsmouth, New-Hampshire, by which each has been in great danger of Ixing destroy- ed. This coal was obtained from one of the mines near Richmond ; was found to contain an unusal quan- tity of sulphur ; lay exposed to the air and rain; and became ignited near the centre of the heaps. It would be well for pf-rsons having large quantitii.s of the coal on hand, to examine it frequently, and it would be a subject, worthy the attention of the curious and philoso- phick, to explain the cause of this ignition. — Kat. Ini, A plan is projected to unite the waters of Lake On- tario, with Lake Champlaln, by a Canal, across the country from Ogdensburg to Plattsburg. A new Map of Vermont, from actual survey, by James Whitelaw, Esq. is published with high recom- mendations. 144 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. FOR THE VF.H- ENCLAKD FAR.MER. We hopu the following sketch from an F.riglisli poem of the miseries endured by the noble animal whnsc sufferings arc so well described, may a tendency to di- rect the attention of thoi^e wlio avail tin msclves of his services to his wants, and induce them to remember that " the merciful man is merciful to his bca?t." Short-sighted Dobbin I — ^Ihou canst only sec The trivial hardelilps tliat encompass thee: Thy chains were freedom, and thy toils repose, C'ouhl the poor post-horae tell thee all hi; woes; Shew thee his bleeding sliouldi rs, and unfold The dreadful anj;uish he endures for gold; llir'd at each call of business, lust, or rage, That prompt the traveller on from stage to sta^e. Still on his strength depends their boasted speed ; For them his limbs grow weak, his bare ribs bleed ; And though he groaning quickens at command, Their extra shilling in the rider's hand Uccomes his bitter scourge ; — 'tis he must feci The double efforts of the lash and steel ; Till wlvn, up hill, the dcstin'd inn be gains, And trembling under complicated pains, I'rone from bis nostrils, darting on the ground. His breatli emitted floats in clouds around; Drops chase each other down his chest and sides. And spatter'd mud his native colour hides; Through his swoln veins the boiling torrent flows. And every nerve a separate torture knows. flis harness loos'd, he welcomes eaget*-eyed The pail's full draught that quivers by his side ; And joys to see the well-knon-n stable door. As the starv'd mariner the friendly shore. Ah, well for him if here his suff'rings ceas'd. And ample hours of rest his pains appeas'd ! But rous'd again, and sternly bade to rise, And shake refreshing slumber from his eyes. Ere his exhausted spirits can return. Or through his frame reviving ardour burn, Come forth he must, though limping, niaini'd and sore ; He bears the whip ; the chaise is at the door. — The collar tightens, and again he feels His half-heard wounds inflam'd ; again the wheels With tiresome sameness in his ears resound, O'er blinding dust, or miles of flinty ground. Thus nightly robb'd, and injur'd day by day, His piece-meal raurd'rers wear his lite away. FOR THE NEW ENGI.A-VD r.\RMEn. The person who tells a falsehood, in order to conceal a weak or wicked action, leans upon a broken reed which not only does not sustain him, but threatens every moment to break and pierce his hand. ^ Innocence and mystery never inh.ibit long too;cthrr ; and the brst step towards vice is to make a secret of actions which are neither vicious nor unbecoming. A man docs well to take advice, but if he is always governed by his advisers ho looses his own free agency. Advice is useful to enlight- en the understanding, but ought not to direct the will against the dictates of the judgment. We can forgive those who hate us, and even those who treat us with contempt may be for- given, but can scarcely be loved. Altection can never blossom, it' its bud has been blighted by scorn ; or in other words we cannot love these, who make it evident that tiiey despise, or think meanly of us. Attention to the wants and wishes of those around us, even in matters of small importance, but frequent occurrence, gives the greatest charm to social intercourse. From the Essex Register. Mr. Pal fray — As it may be interesting to some of your readers, to learn the results of the ex- periments of some of the ir.ost enterp,nsing Ag- riculturists in the County, 1 have made an ab- stract of the Report of the Committee to exam- ine the claims for premiums '• on Indian Corn and other crops,'' and if agreeable to you, should be pleased to have it published. Such evidence ivas required by the Committee, as leaves no doubt of the iiccuracy of the statements. Respectfully, vours, JOHN" \\. PROCTOR. Daiivcrs, Xov. 21, 1C22. Mr. Daniel Biirnham, of Newburyport, raised on one acre 117 1-4 bushels of Indian corn, weighing 5(J lbs. to the bushel. The seed came' from the upper part of the Missouri Territory. At present it is uncertain whether this kind of corn can be cultivated to advantage in common seasons. Mr. John Lccs^ of Newbury, raised on one acre 103 bushels and 20 quarts of Indian Corn, weighing 5 Hbs. to the bushel, 18 bushels of turnips, 1750 lbs. of pumpkins, 150 lbs. squash- es— estimated equal to 118 bushels of corn to the acr^. Mr. Ilcnry Little, of Newbury, raised on one acre 1 16 bushels and 9 quarts of Indian Corn, weighing 58 lbs. to the bushel. Mr. Krastus Jinn?, of Salem, raised on one acre 93 3-4 bushels of Indian Corn. Mr. Richard Cro~jciii>ishiehl, of Danvers, raised on one acre 90 1-2 bushels of Indian Corn. Mr. Daniel Mears, on the farm of the Hon. William Reed, of Marblehead, raised on one acre 87 1-2 bushels of Indian Corn. Mr. Jacob Gould, of Boxford, raised on one acre 72 bushels of Indian Corn. Mr. Isaac Dodge, of Hamilton, raised on one acre 70 3-4 bushels and 5 quarts of Indian Corn. Mr. Jacob Wilkins, on the farm of Benj. T. Reed, Esq. of Marblehead, raised 50 bushels of Barley to the acre. Mr. Henry Little, of Newbury, raised 687 1-2 bushels of English Turnips on one acre. Messrs. Silas and Joseph Little, of Newbury, raised 615 bushels of English Turnips on one acre. Mr. John Dwinel, of Salem, raised on 101 1-3 rods of land, 29 tons, one quarter, and 25 lbs. of Beets. Mr. Dzi'incl also raised 8 tons and 3 cwt. of C;irrots, on 111 1-2 rods of land. Mr. David Little, of Newbury raised on one acre 970 1-2 bushels of Mangel \Vurtzel, 2 bush- els of Carrots, and 107 Cabbages. The crops of Potatoes and Ruta Baga were not large. From the New-York American. The Battle of the Beets. — By this morning's mail, we find the papers fiom all quarters chal- lenging the world to vie with the mammoth vegelahles they respectively describe. These challenges, to say the lca.»t of them, arc very harmless ; and, as there is no probability tlnit the contest will be settled by powder and ball, we feel little anxiety about being involved in the contest, as pai-ticipcs criminis, by republish- ing their notes of defiance. And tirst from Ohio — the land of milk and honey. The v^andusky Clarion states that Ma- jor Frederick Falley has this season raised Beet, from the seed of the Bonaparte Sugar Be which, after trimming off _the lea\;es . weigh thirty pounds. It mea.sured in length three fe and (bur inches, in circumference two feet ai .seven inches. Next comes our own state, through the me ium of the Saratoga Sentinel, the editor of whi has possession of a large red Beet, raised in tl garden of the Hon. Samuel Young, the prese season, which measures two feet four and a hi inches in circumference, and weighed, wh' taken from the ground, eighteen pounds. And now, " Pennsylvania against the world The Westmoreland Republican announces tl satisfaction of having seen one which measur twenty-two inches and an half, and another twe ty-thrce inches and three-fourths in circunjfi ence. The Philadelphia Union also publishes an a count of a •' gigantic vegetable'" — a beet, whii grew in the garden of Mr. D. Kramer, whii weighs fifteen pounds and a half, and measur at the thickest part thirty-four inches, and som what lower down twenty-seven inches. Tl Editor triumphantly asks, " Who can beat this We refer him to the foregoing statements, ai especially to the account in the Sandusky Cla ion, which it must be admitted has sounded prt tv loud on this occasion. IMPORTANT IN'VE.VTION. A gentleman of this State, to whom this cou try is much indebted for his former inventioi has lately completed a Machine for Cutting F from Skins, without injury to the Pelt, which b heretofore been rendered useless for leather. is also ascertained, that this machine will she Cloth much better than any machine now in us One man can cut, with this Machine, the f from 1000 skins ])er day, or shear 2500 yards cloth — whereas the cutting of the fur from ; skins or shearing 120 yards of cloth is consider' a day's work, by the present mode ofcuttingai shearing. Thus there is a saving of I9-20lhs the labour — the fur cut by this machine is pr nounced, by good judges, to be better than th cut in the usual way. — Considering the great sa ing of skins, (particulary the seal,) and labor, w must pronounce it one of the most imports) inventions which has honored our country. Palladium. Hogs. — .\n Ohio farmer recommends coals, ; useful in fattening hogs. After giving his hogs small quantity daily, say two pieces to eac about the size of a hen's egg, they discontinuf rooting, were more quiet, and appeared to faltc faster. He omitted the coal a few days an they commenced rooting; he gave it again ao they ceased to root. He supposes that the co: corrects that morbid fluid in the stomach whic incites them to root deep in search of ires earth. L.iRCF. Tf RNIPS. To the many extraordinary instances of th strength and fertility of our soil, we take plea' v ure to add, that Wiili;mi Ladd, Esq. of Minot, ) | this county, has raised on his farm, this ychj i turnips of unusual size. He stated to us la^ week, that he weighed three of them, and thei I joint weight was .'!ixty pounds ! Beat this wh can. — Pn.-'lcind Ga:cttc. ■ ' NEW ENGLAND FARMER. Published every Saturday, by THOMAS W. SHKt'AltU, Rogers' Building, Ooiigrrss Street, Boston ; at $:,50 per aaiu. iu advance, or $J,UO at the close of the vca 'OI.. I. BOSTON, SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7, 1822. No. li). From the American Farmer. FRUlt TREES. Edgejidd, South Carolhw, Feb. 28, 1822. '' On Savage stocks inserted learn to bear.'' There are lew subjects n)ore deservins'' the altcntion of the Americiin a2:ricultiirist tliaii the art ol' graft iiig', and daw which are more unac- countably nc!(lected. Not only to natural philo- sophers, but to whomsoever the \vorks of natur- alists can impart a charm ; it must be pleasing to know something- of that affinity in the saps of different trees, wliich qualifies one to bear the fruits of many, however widely difloring in sl)ape, size, and llavor. Thus every variety of plum, peach, nectarine, apricot, and almond will succeed well on the wild plum stock. The ap- ple, pear, quince, medlar, service, and haw- thorn, though ditTering with one another, will all agree to grow on the hawthorn, (cn(.'ff»i/.v.) The whole of the Icosandria class appears to discover a disposition to graft on each other. It seems somewhat derogatory to the character of American husbandry, that the third volume ot the Farmer is nearly completed, and notiiing like a lecture has yet appeared, upon an art, so productive of profit and pleasure. However desirable, I do not presume on the present occa- sion, to supply the delioiency here complained of. The very short time since my attention has been directed to the subject, forbids it ; but my zeal in the cause, prompts me to begin, what I hope to see completed by an abler hand. Faith and philosophy appear to agree in the simplici- ty of the origin of all things.* From these prem- ises we might conclude, that previous to all dia'i- ges by accident or culture, all the fruits of the earth might have flourished on one parent stock ! Culture seems to have full as much influence as difference of genus. As the apple and fear, apple and quince, cherry and plum, andeyen the wild and tame cherry, w ill not graft tjgeth- er, although of the same genus ; while the ap- ple and hawthorn, peach and rose will succeed together by grat'ting.t And I have been irform- ed by practical grafters, that many varieties cf cultivated apples refuse to grow on the wild crab stock. Phillip Miller speaks of the wild cherry as a stock lor the tame, but there must be a dilTerence between his variety and that of this country ; or a further change has taken place since his time, as I can assert from repeat- ed trials, both by budding and grafting, that an union cannot be effected. And if there be not more of poetry than truth in Virgil, many trees which claimed kin when he wrote, disown it now. According to this view of the matter, in the ratio that the different genera of trees re- cede from their original condition, will be the difficulty of uniting Ifiem by art. Thus, though Ihe cultivated apple and pear will not graft to- gether, perhaps the wild apple and stone pear might ; scientific gentlemen who have the op- portunity, owe it to philosophy to make the ex- periment. There is something sublime in the *See the \vriting:3 of Moses, Linneus, Darwin, &c.i:c. t There is considerable diificully in uniting the peach to the rose ; but when done, the growth is as luxutiaat and perhaps more hardy than from its own rojt- idea, that the first cause should have left the fruits of the earth in their crude state, to be mellowed by the hand of man ; that in elfec- ling this salutary change, the conceit of his skill, by inciting exertion, should expel his inborn apathy so fatal to his hajipiness and glory. All the instructions 1 have ever seen on gral'tin"-, I know to be very imperfect. The old bungling method of api)lyiiig throe or four pounds ol clay and stone-horse dung to the grafts, should have been long ago exploded.* The solo intention of a wrapper being to exclude the air from the wounds occasioned by the process, a cerate will answer the purpose far better, cheaper and neater : a jiiece of the size of a hazel nut being generally sufficient. And after the gral'ts have made some little progress in uniting with the stocks, the was may be collected for future ojic- rations. Almost every publication which I have had the opportunity to peruse, directs one third of turpentine in the composition of a grafting wax ; this though very ductile and pleasant to use, I found certainly to destroy both grafts and •stocks, as far as the wax came in contact with them. From the numerous respectable authori- ties recommending this wax, 1 was very liberal in its application to a number of choice grafts, without suspicion ; but had the vexation upon the first inspection by removing the wax, to discover that a complete mortification had taken place under the wax ; and even extending furth- er in little lines along the grain of the wood. 1 separated the dead wood, and with a more friend- ly cerate, regraftcd the surviving buds ivith suc- cess. Whatever may be the innocence of a wax containing one third turpentine in a northern climate, 1 was so well convinced from my trials of its deleterious effects in Carolina, as to re- ject it entirely. After many experiments to as- certain the best composition for a grafting wax, I prefer the following : — One measure of olive oil or hog's lard, 3 do. of melted bee's wax ; mix well while hot, to be worked after it is cool, till sufficiently pliant. Perhaps sweet gum resin might form the basis of a more ductile wax, without imparting a destructive quality. — The following general rule may be observed by the noviciate in the science of grafting. All trees of the same genus, (not greatly altered by art,) will succeed together by inoculation. Those who have the opportunity and inclination to in- dulge in speculations on the production of vege- table hybridst should try trees of the same cla.s? and order, or if differing in this particular, such as discover a similarity in the fruit, leaf, or sen- sible properties of the sap and wood, &c. Graft- ing is performed by making an operation upon *See Owen's Arts and Sciences, Miller's Gardener's Dictionary, &c. iic. t A vegetable hybrid or mule, is more expeditious'.r produced by grafting different genera than by introca- civg to each other, the blooms of the diflerent sexe,. It is a fact iu vegetable, as well as animal physiology, that all mules are not barren. Thus the peach graft- ed to the rose, though in appearance a complete peacli tree, bears roses only ; nor can it be regrafted to either peach or rose. But the apple on the haw.horn Is as capable of bearing fruit and regrafting as any other ap- ple tree. the wood of the stock, to which is attached the cut of a twig from another tree, both wood and bark, with an indefinite number of buds.* Tho' March and April tire the usual months for graft- ing, it may be prutrrcled till I\Iav, and even .lune, perhaps witli belter success t'han earlier ; by keeping tho gitifls in a degree of moisture which, vvill just [irevent their withering. The stocks should not exceed the size of a large goose-quill, but if they are old, select lindis of tho same size ; if there bo none, head dosvn the slock and wait till they come ; the grafts wiil be more neat and vttlnablo for the delay. The twigs should be selectod from a young" hetilthy tree, and t« be as nearly as possible of the same size with tiieir stocks. They should be cut be- fore the buls have begun to swell. No otliei instrument is required than a shaqi knife, with sufficient strength to perform the operation ; a wtirm moist day should be prefer- reil. Cut the stock even and smooth, split about half an inch with the knife, cut off a bit of the twig to be grafted, with one or two buds, wedge shaped, ha\ing one edge thicker than the oth- er, fit very exactly tho edges of the wood on the tliick side. Then cover as much of the graft and stock as was wounded in the opera- tion, with ris much grafting wax as will exclude the air. There are other methods of grafting in the wooJ, but the method here laid down be- ing the raoit simple and certain of success, I think it usdess to describe any other. But the season of giafting is somewhat short and pre- cious, whils that of budding is lasting and very certain. Moreover, many trees will bud per- fectly well, '.•:\\w.\i will not grtift at all ; as the mulberry, 4ic. Budding or inoculation is the very simple art of ingntt\ing one free on anoth- er ; by making an incision through the bark on- ly of the stock, sufficient to make bare a small surface of the wood; whJe a little strip of bark containing a single bud of a size corresponding with the incision made on the stock, is fitted exactly and speedily on thi; spot of wood de- prived of its original bark. Although midsum- mer is the usual time allotted for budding, it may be performed with success from the first of May, till the last of September, or even later. I think I have succeeded better in September than any month with such buds as had a sufficiency of sap to peal freely. And to insure success, I will here remark, that both grafts ind stocks should at all times abound with sap. For early bud- ding select a shoot of the preceding year's growth ; but if deferred to the time usaally pre- scribed, (say midsummer) take the best grown shoot of the same year (with good prominent buds,) something larger than the size recom- meniJed for grafting. Cut out a little billet of u ond about an inch long, having the bud in the middle ; now having idaced it on the stock in- * Mided to receive it, mark the bark thereof with the knifo at each end ; thus. JJ iV-r the more ()recise fitting- of the strip of bark to be introdu- * I in-sertid some apple graft? about the mii'dle of last Xoveniler, the wounds have partially healtd, and Old as f.tir tf. do well as spring gtaft? — graiting may bg commenced as soon as the budi begin to swell, in springy. 14(i NKW KXGLAXU FARMER. ceJ ; then m.ikc an incision quite through tiio I biirk without rnateriallv injuring the wood. — Thus 1 now raise the Lark with tlie thumb nnU or point of the kuit'o, and instantly apply tlic bark containing tiic buil, wiiich may be con- veniently separated from its wood by the thumb nail or point of the knife. Perhaps the opcra- ir,' will tind it more convenient to cut out the billet opposite to the chosen bud. Thus the tivig will now serve as a kind of handle to turii oil the bud with more despatch and safety. I5ul wliatever method may be chosen for separating (he bud, no time should be lost after having it •adjusted, till it be close tied on with a woollen string, sufficiently strong for the purpose. Ob- serving to wrap above and below the hud neat- ly, without compressing the bud itself. The strings should be smeared with grafting wax, which will make them better to tie, exclude the air, and remain sound lor future operations. An evening or moist day shouhl be preferred for this method of grafting also. One week is suf- ficient for the strings to remain, for if the buds have not etTected their union in tha time, the}' never will. If they do not appear withered at the time ot removing the string'- or shortly Tebudded. .Ml the writers I favc read on budding, state that the buds do not put out till the succeeding year! until .Mr. Andrew Knight recommenced the forcing of them b' a strong ligature above the inserted buds, with the intent to check the flow of sap by them ; but at'ter- wards removes the ligatures, lest thfy have too much sap. This apj)ears to nic like watering a plant till it has a good start, and then with- drawing our care. Alter .Air. Knig.it has been at the trouble to remove his ligatu-ps, he will find his initiated buds again checkel, if not star- ved by the older branches drawing- the sap from (hem. My method of forcing- I deem to ho far more simple : so soon as, I ascertain my buds will live, which may bo known in about a week, if the stock be small I instantly head it down, with one stroke of my knife, immediately above the bud 1 wish to noursh. If the stock be large, I amputate the princpal branches ; the conse- quence is an immcdi.'te bursting of all the latent buds, together with the inoculated. As the in- grafted branches multiply, I diminish the num- ber of the original Jiics, till nothing remains but (he new tree; nor will it be long, till " inj^cns exiit ad arluin ranis jelkibus arhos, Miraturqui: ■novas, frondcs, ctn^m sua jioiiki.""^ From this sinific treatment, my buds ^vill ex- tend if inserted early, many feet, with numerous branches the same summer, and be prepared to produce a crop of fruit the ensuing year; na}'. more strange to tell, the same year in some in- stances. Let the theorising orchardist who is fearful of a sununer j)runing, (because his books nor father's have not told him of it,) recollect what is the consequence of breaking a riding switch, or half the boughs of a tree being torn olT bv weight of fruit, or other accident. — Whether is death the result, or a sudden produc- * Dr. Darwin has given the following translation of this passage : Ho shall the trunk with loftier crest ascend, And VfUW iu air rut)uster anna extend, Nurse the new biutj, admire the leaves unknown, Vud blushing bend with friiitage not its own, Ed, .V, E, F'lrnur. tion of numerous thriving shoots, in some cases gay flowers ? Hy the by, I think the growing season the jiroper time for pruning, and practise it accordingly, liut whatever may be the prin- ciples of vegetable life, the buds of trees may he thus safely lorced, and if they arc not at sume time, or other forced in the way here recom- mended, they will either never put out, or will put out only to starve; and the sooner they are thus pushed the better Rees's Encyclopedia objects to the buds exten- ding the same year in w liich they are inserted, on the ground that they will prove too tender to resist the shock ot winter; but these fears I can assert to be groundless; the lust severe spring put this matter fully to the test with me ; I had the buds of apricots, almonds, white walnuts. Sic. in both states many which hail not put t'orth, were completely destroyed, while those which had made progress resisted the storm. The persimmon, [Diospcros Virginiajui) and walnut, &.C, will receive a tarnish on the surface of the wood, in a few seconds after the bark is separated from it. This is a chemical change in '.he sap, caused by its coming in contact with the air, which perhaps may deteat the operation and account lor failures, and for the general opinion that these trees will not succeed at all.* Ijut to insure success the operator must use the greatest dexterity ; having cut through the bark of the stock us before directed, separate the bark containing the bud to be introduced ; this done, keep it close pressed (without being moved from its wood) with the thumb and linger of one hand, while the bark is raised from the stock, with the other, having the string iu readiness, apply the bud and confine it nccordinj to art, Perhaps there is no tree more dillicull to bud than the Persimmon; but choice kinds may be sufficiently well propagated in this way. when budding the hickorynut, persimmon, ches- nut, S;c. grafting wax should be applied to the bud before it is confined with the string, and as much as squeezes out between the w Tappings of the string, should be pressed down with the linger or thumb, so as eflectually to exclude the air; which will make the operation more sure and prevent the depredation of small worms, nhich are liable to infest such trees under the inserted bark. This method of waxing should also be ai)i)lied to the walnut and other difficult trees. The pecan {Curya Olivu-formis) did not appear to take so well as the walnut, but my trials where made rather late iu the season. 1 * Ret?' F.ncyclopedia says, the miilbrrry, fij, and w.iliiiit, vill only ingraft hy inarching ; and Philip Mil- liT, a very celehi'.ited Knglish ^ardent r, says the apple will in2;raft on none, but its own stock ; hut these are the mistakes of ^nat men. I don't helievc there is any tree that will biid more successfully than the nuilbeny : Ihe walnut tolerably well, and from the few trials 1 made with the tig, I am induced to think there may be no diiricnlty with that. I budded some mulberry buds on Ihe 1 1th of Jnne, and by the :;!9th of Auj;nst I meas- ured one upwards of a foot iu length, with ripe frnit. .Mr. Knljert Ijofioii, livinsf a few miles from F,d5;e- lield Court House, has in^^rafted apple tret-s whif h he s.ays have flourished upwards of '20 years upon a varie- ty of indigenous hawthorn. 1 have been informed of another instance iu the same district; and I have mv- self very luxuriant crafts on the parsley leaved haw- thorn, which produced apples largje, delicious and un- commonly sound. The most prolific source of igno- rance and oppression is that of suffcrin;; great men to think for us. Crippled indeed would be the operations of nature were they controlled by the theories apd con- ceits of the wisest man. succeeded very well in budding the chesnut {castania esnilcnta) to the dwarf chesnut or chiii- quepin {dislaiiia /'«;;u7o,) but from a neglect of a timely waxing had them destroyed by worms. It sreuH to be a prevalent opinion, that buds cannot be separated for any length of time, trom the parent tree without ceasing to vegetate. I kept some cuts of the almond, peach and apricot, nearly a month in moist earth, and budded them with success. They may conveniently be pre- served for a few day's journey, in wei cloth. — But unnecessary delays should, of course, be avoided. 'I'he art of budding and grafting, u» particularly inqiortant in this country, where ivc have at command such a variety of hardy native stocks, and surplus land to devote to trees. The persimmon bears a fruit replete with sugar, which is never injured by the frosts, resists rot perhaps better than any other fruit ; is a verj great bearer, and will flourish \vithout cultiva- tion, on the poorest soils, whether of sand or clay, wet or dry. The wild plum will also grow on very poor land, and is durable ; but grow-l too slow in general for a nursery stock : it sliould have attained a sufficient size previous to grafts ing (say three or four inches in diameter) to keep pace with the rapid growth of the peach and some jilums — remembering always to insert the buds or grafts, as close as pos- sible to the trunk, or a large limb. I'nder these circumstances the wild plum will be found atj excellent stock for an extensive tribe of deli- cious fruits. The same remarks will apply (o the elegant parsley leaved hawlborn when used as a stock for the apple, pear, &:c. ; another ad- vanlige this stock (hawthorn) also has of the ap[)lc and most of the other hawthorns, it is verv hardy, little choice of soils, and is never pl.igued with moss, as it sheds its old bark annually. — Gentlemen, whose land abounds with these hai'Jy native stocks (instead of considering them a nuisance,) might, by selecting the hardiest and richest fruits for grafting, with a small portion ot time and expense, have a profusion of them highly important to man and beast.* I hope the readers of the Farmer will not be illiberal in communicating the result of their enquiries to the public, to whom they owe a debt, for rending your paper, which can only be discharged with intellectual coin ; and let the miser in knowledge recollect, that it is a dark body indeed, which is alw.a^s imbibing light without reflecting any. Nor can 1 dismiss this ■subject without inviting the attention of the la- dies thereto ; if the tree of knowledge was for- bid them, this book of knowledge is not. Sure- ly to know Something of grafting is more worthy of their regard, than many of the transient amusements of fashion. Human fashion, like a Proteus, ever changing ; what is taste to-day is ridiculous to-morrow. But, the fashions of Na- ture are eternal as truth, and bestow blessings with an unsparing hand, on those who search them out ! The rose will not only graft and bud well to its genns ; but will take on those of a (litTerent one, by which the plain fruit tree is converted into an inimitable flowering shrub. This art being equally applicable to the propa- gation of flowering shrubs, .as iVuit trees, would *In the spring of 18'21, I transplanted some wild plum stocks, from 2 to 3 inches diameter, close pruned, whereon 1 gr.afteund them as good as willow wood for this use. He Tiianted two acres and a quarter, and by that he saved ill a winter, thirty dollars, and had oil worth twenty- eight dollas. 10. Lastly, they furnish excellent ashes. The seeds when roasted have the flavour of coffee, and the infu- sion of them in the manner of tea, is a pleasant bever- age. From the New York F.vcning Post. Wc lately saw in the English papers, an ac- count of a m;irvellou9 discovery in the art of tannitig. It is stated in the London Globe that the discoverer sold his secret to a member of parliament for I'),OOOZ. in hand, 5.000/. on the first of January, 5,000/. per annum for four years next succeeding', and afterwards, 1 1,000/. a year for life. The following articles from the Liv- erpool Mercury, however, contains a satisfactory disposal of it. LE.VTHER TRADE. To the Editors of the Liverpool Mercury : Gentlemen, — 1 lately observed a parasfraph in your independent paper, announcing that a discovery had lately been made " to tan leather ia six weeks that usually requires twelve months, at less than half the expense." The moment 1 read it, 1 declared it must be a fable ; but, for curiosity's sake, I was resolved to trace it, if possible, to its source. This 1 have done, and find it quite as fabulous as 1 thought, though I must do the authors, (who are respectable, and treated me with every civility,) the justice to acquit them of all wilful misrep- resentations: but 1 have since every reason to believe that the rumours in question alluded to our manufactory at Dorking, wherein, (accord- ing to advertisements) crop hides are tanned in lour months instead of sixteen, without greater expense than oak bark, averaging 8 lb. each a- bove the raw halves or standard. Knowing, gentlemen, that you never wilfully give the smallest countenance to idle and falla- cious rumors in your columns, I have felt it my duty to address you upon this matter, being con- vinced that you are always ready to correct misstatements, by giving them equally public contradiction. Having observed some remarks published last May, ill the British Traveller, also respecting our manul'actory at Dorking, we take this op- portunity to add a few plain facts, proving the value and utility of our most providential dis- covery to the trade, to the revenue, and to the nation. Suppose a tanner turns out 100 cow hides per annum, of 80 lb. each, making them weigh 40 lb. each when tanned, according to the rules of the old trade (confirmed by Mr. John UnJer- hill, acting chairman of the committee of the Leather-Trade, at Berraondsey, as advertised in the Times of the 27th ftLiy last) viz. " that 2 lbs. of raw hide are required to make 1 lb. of leath- er." Such common tanners may be enabled by the use and knowledirc of our process (which is both cold and vegetuLde) to tan 3000 similar raw hides in one year, making them weigh, on fair average, Clbs. each above the raw halves, thus creating 24,000 extra weight of leather ! which, at Is 6d. per lb. is 1800/. per annum adilitional profit. Computing the Excise Dul}', as lately sub- mitted to the House of Commons, at 055,424/. 1.*. 8d. ])or annum, the weight of leather is above til'ty millions of lbs. and one-sixth increase of weight (as described above) nearly nine mil- lions of lbs. at Is. Gd, per lb. is no less than 675,000/. per annum, derivable by the trade and the public ; and if the old duty had not been half repealed, the revenue would have benetit- ed 109,16t3/. per annum, or 54,583/. at the pres- ent rate of duty. But duly considering the great advantages of weight alone, it would have been impolitic to repeal the old duty, as the tanners might have been placed better than duty free, while the revenue itself would then have really been a- bout 4.57,000/. more than it is now, and thus (up- on moderate calculation) above one inilliou ster- ling may be annually saved. 1 deem all further remarks superfluous, ex- cept that 1 hope every editor who copied the fabulous paragraph will feel it a duty due to the British Leather Company, and to the public, to follow it, by inserting this letter likewise. I am with due respect, sir, your most obedi- ent servant. JOHN BURRIDGE, Secretary. Fuller's Earth. — A gentleman at Sag Harbor, Long Island, forwarded to us sometime since a box of fuller's earth, from a bed which he owns ; we put it into the hands of two experi- enced fullers who have pronounced it to be of an excellent quality. Connecticut Gazette. FACTS AND OBSERVATIONS RELATING TO AGRICULTURE & DOMESTIC ECONOMY- FOR THE KEW ESCLAND lARiMER. SALT AND MILDEW. A correspondent writes us word, that whert this subject was mentioned before (1819) he tried salt water for the prevention of this dis- ease, which was then prevailing on his crop ; but it had no effect in staying the progress of the disease, and eventually the straw became quite black. As he States that he tried this but on a patch, and took great pains, it seems to I'ollow that such a sprinkling as whole tields could obtain would be entirely useless. We slate these facts, as our duty is to prevent de- lusion, and thoroughly to canvas the merits ot a very imposing claim to public gratitutle. Farmers^ Journal. DAMP IN WALLS. An easy and efficacious way of preventin* the elfects of damp walls upon paper in rooms has lately been used, and (as we understand) with complete success. It consists of lining the wall, or the damp part of it, with sheet lead, purposely rolled very thin ; this is fastened up ivitli small copper nails, which not being sub- ject to rust are very durable, and the whole may lie immediately covered with paper. The- lead is not thicker than that which is used in the chests in which tea is imported, and is made in shcet.s, of which the width is about that of common paper hangings. — ibid. POWER OF THE HORSE. The couriers of Russia travel from Peters- burgh to Tobolsk, a distance of 19 deg. 20 min, in twelve days. Their rate of travelling is of course about one hundred miles a day. What, in equestrian phrase, is called a great mover, will, without pressing, trot 6 10 yards in eighty seconds. DENTIFRICr.. Take sage and salt, of each a like quantity, and pound them together ; then bake the mix- ture till it be hard, and make a fine powder thereof, then therewith rub the teeth evenings, and mornings, and it will take away all yellow- ness.— Markham's English HousevinJ'c. FEF.DINO cows WITH CABBAGES. When cabbages are given to milch cows, the decnyed and musty leaves must be taken otf, or they will impart a bad taste to the milk and butter. TO MAKE POMONA WINE. The directions published by Mr. Cooper, of New Jersey, for making wine of cider and oth- er ingredients, which may properly be called Pomona Wine., are as follows. — " Take cider of the best running of the cheese, and of the best quality, and add to it as much honey as will make the liquor bear an egg; strain the liquor through a cloth as you pour it into the cask; till the cask full, with the addition of two gal-t Ions of French brandy to a barrel ; set it away in a cool place, with the bung-hole open to fer- ment ; as the fermentation proceeds, it will throw out considerable froth and filth ; keep filling it frequently with more of the same kind of liquor, kept for the purpose, till the fermen- tation has nearly subsided ; tlien put in the bung, i NEW ExNGLAND FARMER. 149 ut Dot tightly, in order tliat the liquor may ave some t'urther vent, and as soon as the ier- lentation ceases, close up the vessel. The ext S]>ring rack off the liquor into a new clean ask ; and in order to clarif}' it take the whites (six egg9, with a haiult'ul of tine beach sand, ■ashed clean ; stir them well toarether ; then oil a quart of molasses, and cool it by pouring 1 cider, and put this together with the eggs nd sand into the liquor, and stir the whole to- ether."' The Farmer's Assistant says, '' It is believed lat about a quart of sweet milk to a barrel, 'ell stirred and mixed with the liquor as it is cured in, will answer equaljy well, perhaps etter. This operation alone will not only cla- ify liquors, but by repeating it several times, he highest colored wines may be nearly or uite divested of all their color." " After the liquor has been thus clarified, let t be again drawn off into bottles, or into fresh lean casks, and kept in a cool cellar for use. ige, however, is essential for perfecting this :iad of wine, as well as all others." ARBONIC ACID C.4S, OR FIXED AIR, NECESSARY IN CIDER. It is well observed in the Domestic Encyclo- cdia, that " it is of great consequence to pre- ent the escape of the carbonic acid, or (ixed ir from cider, as, on this principle, all its brisk- ess depends. To effect this, various expedi- nts have been contrived. In the state of Con- ecticut, where much cider is made, it is a ommon practice to pour a tumbler of oli-ce oil 1 the bung hole of every cask. Upon the ame principle we have lately heard of a man .ho boasted that he had drank brisk beer out f the same cask for Jive years, and that his se- ret was to cover the surface of the liquor with live oil. Dr. Darwin also says that he w!\s )Id by a gentleman who made a considerable uantity of cider on his estate, that he procured essels of stronger construction than usual, and iiat he directed the apple juice, as soon as it ad settled, to be bunged up close, and that hough he had had one vessel or two occasion- lly burst, by the expansion of the fermenting iquor, yet that this rarely occurred, and thai lis cider never failed to be of the most excel- ent quality, and was sold at a great price." 'robably casks filled with iVesh cider, bunged ip tight, and sunk under water or buried in •arlh, might run no risque of bursting, and no ioubt the cider kept in that way would be well )reserved, and in time properly tined. I V.VRSISH FOR IRON OR STF.EL. ' The Nantucket Inquirer states that '' A per- lijnanent varnish is obtained by rubbing iron in a ■ tate nearly red hot, with the horny hoofs of j ;attle, which are previously dipped in a small I Jortion of oil ; this process is asserted to affvid : he best defence from the destructive influence I if air and humidity." PATENT HORSE SHOES .[' Col. Goldfinch, of Hythe, (Great Britain,) ' las obtained a patent for a new method in the • brmation of horse-shoes. The improvement I ;onsisfs in making the horse-shoe in two parts, I .)r separating it in two pieces, by cutting it I ';hrough near the toes. The object of the con- , i:riva:;ce i=, that the frogs of tlie horse"s hool • nay be enabled to expand and grow in a heal- thy state. The separation is to be made in an indented form, and the two parts fastened to- gether by pins. It is further proposed to attach the shoe to a horse's hoof, by driving the nails obliquely, as in the French manner of shoeing. For this purpose, the situations of the nail holes are to be from about one third to hall the width of the shoe distant from its outer edge, and tending- in a slanting direction outwards. Evening Gazette. FARMING CHEMISTRY. Leiand, in his Jlemoirs of the celebrated French chemist Lavoisier, states, that he culti- vated 240 acres of land in La Vendee, on chem- ical principles, in order to set a good example to the farmers, and his mode of cultivation was attended with so much success that he obtained a third more of crop than was obtained by the usual method, and in nine years his annual pro- duce was doubled. SMALL CATTLE OFTEN THE MOST PROFITABLE. [From Anderson'3 Recreations.] " Take a mastiff, a grey-hound, and a shock dog, whose weights arc respectively sixty, thir- ty, and fifteen pounds each. " If I have been rightly informed, the quanti- ty of food required to keep these dogs in good condition would be, nearly, for the mastilT, one pound ; for the greyhound one pound ; for the shock dog three ounces, a day. Of course, one hundred pounds of food would nourish of mastiff flesh six thousand pounds ; of the greyhound dit- to three thousand pounds; of the shock dog dit- to about eight thousand pounds ; so that the loss in employing the second, when compared with the first, would be as two to one ; and that of employing the second, when compared with the third, would be as two and three-fourths to one nearly. '• The above statement is not given as being absolutely accurate, but merely as illustrative. And as something of the same kind, though not perlKqis to an equal degree, takes place between different breeds of cattle as of dogs, it is not a matter of such simple calculation as it has been usually supposed, to ascertain whether it will be the most beneficial in a particular case to adopt a large or small breed of cattle. It is, in- deed, impossible that it ever can be done in that general lumping way ; for, if ever the real qualities of different breeds shall come to be ac- curately iiscertained, it ivill, doubtless, be found, that they vary in regard to so many particulars, that perhaps no one rule can ever be made gen- eral, because, from the peculiarities of the case and the nature of the circumstances, it may sometimes happen that a large breed may be preferable to a small one, or vice versa ; and that, by a very small variation of circumstances, the case may be reversed. But if two breeds could be found that were equal in all respects, there are many circumstances in which the small would be preferable to the large. '• In the first place, a small animal, if put up- on pasture fields where the surface is a little soft, will be more easily supported than one of larger weight, and not be so apt to poach it. In the second place, there are innumerable situations in which small beasts will be much bet- ter suited to the accommodation of a family than a larger, or in which it would be more desira- ble to have three or four instead of one. Many a poor person would have abundance of food for a small cow, who could not possibly maintain one of a larger size ; and the quantity of milk that such a cow noulil yield may be exactly suited to the wants of the family, where a Iarg"er quan- tity would only prove distressful. Persons in moderate circumslances too, where the risk is divided, are much less in danger of being thrown into distress by deaths, than they v/ould"bc if all were in one ; and, as the cows may calve at different times, tliey are less in danger of being totally deprived of that useful article milk, a't one time, and of having it in too great quantity at another. The supply becomes more equal; they never experience either superfluity or want. In like manner, a family that lives in the country, if it be moderately larj:c, can easi- ly con-ume a small beast of their own killinsr whereas a large one proves distressful to them ; one half of it must be eaten before it is fit for use, or a great part of it must be thrown away as being tainted. Every person in such circum- stances must know, that three or four small beasts would be, to them, of more than twice the value of one that was equal to them in weight. Lastly, small beasts will always find a ready market, and will usually bring a higher price in proportion to their weight, than large. The very reasons already assigned bring more pur- chasers. Is it for milk ? How many more can reach the price of a small cow than a large one t Is it for rearing ? How many have keep for a small one, that could not have it for one of a larger size ! Is if fat, and for the butcher ? Per- haps in Smithfield market it may make little difference ; but in other places there are manv who will choose the small in preference to the large. All this is on the supposition that the meat is of an equal quality in both cases ; but if jt should ha])pen, that the small meat is also fi- ner and more delicate than the large, the differ- ence in its favour would be still more consider- able. " From these considerations it appears, that the mere size of a breed of cattle is nut a matter of indifference ; and particularly, that those of a diminutive size ought not to be rejected with contempt, as they too often seem to be. Thev ought rather to have their qualities carefully in- vestigated ; because, as we have evidence in the dog species, that some small kinds possess excellent qualities which cannot be found in any that are of a larger size, it may so happen, that similar valuable qualities may be found to peculiarise some of the smaller breeds of cattle. They, therefore, deserve our particular atten- tion ; for if any of them shall be found to be truly valuable, they will tend more to augment the comforts of those who are among the most helpless individuals of the community than any other, while they may at the same time add to the luxurious dainties with which the tables of the rich, though plentifully loaded, are not yet by them deemed to superabound." BUTTER. This delicate and valuable domestic article, it is known, is manufactured in considerable ipiantities in Orange county. At a recent cattle show at Goshen, it appeared that John I*,l. Gra- ham made 2535 lbs. of butter from 20 cows. — His farm is only 95 acres; he has 39 hogs kept on milk, which will weigh 200 lbs. each, when killed. Col. Moses Crawford, of Montgomery, produced 2051 lbs. of butter from 20 cows. 150 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. From the New-York Statesman. j Amrricnn JIuls. — Tivn fine specinions of do- j tncstic tabric — tlic one a lionnct anil the; other j a gentleman's hat made of the F[>ear-;rr:'ss — have i been pulitcly tbrHarded to ns, anil tnay now be ' oxatnined at this oliice. These articles were manujacttired by Miss Mary Lamb, of Stamford. ] Dnbnvare county, a younsf lady of the a^e of' fit'lecn, who informs us, that she rereived no other instrnctions than were derived from the I'olunin- of tlic Statesman. Her mvn inirenuity •supplied the ri~t. As the hat wa< presented to one of the editors of this paper, ve hardly dare to speak of these beauliliil fabrics in the manner they deserve, lest our opinion in this case should be su])poscd to be warped by undue binse'^. — We may at least, however, record the judgment iif others, who have pronounced them equal to the best im[)orted I.cghorns. It is to be regret- ted they did not arrive in season tor tbi; Fair in this countv, and to have been offered fur pre- miums. Miss Lamb, in a polite note acconr[)a- nying these articles, states •• that there is plen- ty of grass of all sizes on tlic banks of the Dela- ware, and willinj hands to work it up, could they but inoi;t with a little encouragement." We Jiopo and Iru^t such encoiiragemint will never be^'anling in an enlightened commni.ity, whose iiirercst it is to promote iemale industry. The association lately established in this city for ciicoiivaging domestic niinufactnrc-, and who are to hold stated Fairs, will be of gmat service, by becoming the depositories of ingenious fab- rics from reniote parts of the state, and in cases ttIhtc the owners cannot be present to superiii- tcnil the exhibition and sale of their commodi- ties. We cannot conclade this brief notice, without publicly acknowledging the high compliment paid us by Miss Lamb. Such an honor was as unex])ected a* it is llatteriiig. .\ more accepta- ble ))resent could not have been received. Com- posed as it is of materials gathered from the iields of our own country, and woven by the hand of one of he,r ingenious and patriotic daugh- ters, we shall value it more highly than the most splendid fabrics imported from foreign lands; and while it shall shade the brow from the sultry suns of summer, it will be a memorial to cheer us with the recollection of our past ex- ertions, and stimulate us to renewed elVorts, in the great cause of national indu>try. From the same fafur, Doiiirslir Manufactures. — Our altenlioii has been called to an extensive chemical manufac- tory, in the village of Greenwich, for the pre- paration of the following among other articles : Alum, Blue Vitriol, Oil Vitriol, Aq Fortis, Spt. Nitri Forti-', Nitric .\cid. Muriatic do. Alcohol, Ether, Vitriol, Tartar F.metic, Refined Cam- jihor, do. Salt I'clre. do. liorax, Corrosive Subli- mate, Calomel ppd. Red Precipitate, Spls. Nitri, ])ulc. do. Sal Ammon Fortis, Aqua Ammonia, Fb'ivers Ren/.oin, Calcined Magnesia. Rochelle Salt^, (ilaiiber's do. Sal. Soda, Super Carbonate of Soda, and Tartaric .\cid. This manufactory is alread\ in a llourisbing condition ; but to give il increaseil facilities ami to warrant its exten- sion, notice has been given, that n])plicalion ivill be mailc for an act of incorporation, at the approaching session of the legislature. An es- tablishment so deserving of public patronage and the fostering care of the slate, needs no ar- guments to enforce its claims. The chemical' substances prepared in this manufactory are pro- nounced to be fully equal to the best importa- tions ; and as many of the articles above enume- rated are expensive, and extensively used in medicine ."ind the arts, it is obviously tor the interest of the country to encourage the enter- prise and industry of its own citizens, and re- tain at home the funds, which now go to other nations for the purchase of these commodities. .Judge Pettihone, of St. Charles, Missouri, in digging for water, has discovered Stone Coal of a superior quality, and it is thought of inex- haustible quantity. THE FARMER. HOSTO.y .— SATURDAY, DEC. 7, Mii-2. ON SAVI.VG A.VD MAKING THE MOST OF MANl'RE. (Conlinued from page 135.) In our last number on the siit.ject of th( se e??ays, we gave brief sketches of pome of the iiriiicipal theories which philosophers have from thiie to time adduced, and endeavored to support, relative to the food of plants. We likewise attempted to point out defects in those theories, and gave some reasons for entertaining a preference for the hypothesis of i^ir Humphry Davy, which is, in substance, that no one kind ol matter can he considered as furnishing the food of plants, but that vital air. [oxygen] charcoal, [carbon] inflammabJc air, [hydrog^jii] and that kind of gas or air, which forms a great part of the atmosphere, and which is not respir*- ble, and will nat support combustion, and is called azote, [nitrogen] form the principal sustenance of plants. It is true that other substances are found in plants by chemical analysis, Init some of those substances arc, prol>ablv, accidentally introduced, and others though o-t nerally esteemed simple bodies, are most likely to turn out compounds, whenever chemical analysis shall be carried to the degree of perfection which some mod- ern discoveries appear to promise.* " The four earths * Although the elements which constitute the great- est part of organized vegetable matter are oxygen, hy- drogen, and carbon, yi>t a little nitrogen or azote is found in some of the products of vegetation, such a« albumen, gUiten,&c. But " from some late experiments it seems probable that nilro^m is not a sinij/lf kmIi- xlrinrc. — See I'hil. Mag. vol. xxxiii. p. 1* '. Indeed the experiment of Dr. I'riestly. by which he procured several portions of nitrogen from the same distilled water, by repeatedly freezing it, seems to confirm this opinion.— Sev Nicholson's .lonrnal, 4 to. vol. iv, p. 1J7. tint the novel experiments of ?ir Humphry Davy are more to the purpose. From these it would appear that nltroum is a compound of hi/droqcn and ory^ni. — ?ee Phil. Tranf. for 1800. Priestley conceived it to be a compound of oxygen and phlogiston. — Pee his pamphlet rntilhd ' Kxperiaienta and Observations relating to the Analysis of Atmospheric Air.tc. 1796,p. 11." — Parkcs's Chemical Colecliism, p. 47, IO//1 frf. It seems (hen, that although some vegetables exhibit, on chemical analysis, nitrogen, as well as carbon, oxy- gen and hvdiogen, yet, as the first mentioned is only a compound of tlie two last, we may omit it in our talf of the eheniiral products of vegetation, except when, in common parlance it may be convenient to retain a term in common use. Moreover, the oxygen and hy- drogen found in vegi.'tables are, we believe, generally, combined in the proportions, wliich con.stitute water. Of course carbon and water compose nearly the whole siilistance of vegetable matter : the carbon being, for aught that yet appears, a simple substkalies, earths, metalli oxides and saline compounds.." These substance: many fif which appear to possess qualities diametricall opposite, are, notwithstanding, composed of the sam elements, but in difl'erent proportions. Thui 100 parts of sugar contain 23 carbon, 8 hydrogen, <;4 oxvgtn. 1(10 parts of acetic acid or vinegar, contain about 100 parts of olive oil about 100 50 carbon, 6 hydrogen, 44 oxygen. 100 77 carbon, 1(» oxygen, 13 hydrogen. 100 100 parts of the wood of oak about 52 carbon, 4ti oxygen, 6 hydroges. 100 stitution of the whole universe." If carbon, like nitro- o-en, can be resolved into oxygen or hydrogen, or'a compound of both, or can be supposed to be compound ed of " solar light" and oxygen and hydrogen, or either of them, we have M. Braconnet's theory advanced an-' other step towards proof positive. M. Braconnet's vcg- etalilcs obtained various earths, alkalies, acids, &c. either from atmos)ihtnic air, which consists of oxygen' and azote, with a minute quantity of fnr6cnjc acid, or from water (oxygen and hydrogen.) The carbon found in (hem by analysis might be taken from the cailionic acid gas of the atmosphere. The other products thus' found, it should seem, musl have been derived from distilled water, or pure oxygen and hydrogen. * Letters of Agricola. NEW ENGLAN7> FARMElt. 151 100 parts ol' albumen from the white of the egg about 53 carbon, 24 o.\ys<-n, 7 liyiirogtn, 16 nitrogen. lOO* Nifrogpn is rarely found in vegetables, but " the iacipal part of the almond, and of the kernels of ma- r other nuts, appears from the experiments of I'roust, be a substance analogous to coagulated albumen, or hite of an egg." The abave are the principal elementary substances hich enter into the composition of all vegetables, tiosc of arUmals are nearly the same, the only mate- il dilferencc consisting in the uniform presence of ni- ■igen in animal matter. W hen vegetubles are grow- g they imbibe or make food of th( se substances either their leaves or their roots, but prii>cipally by the ttcr. Any thing that has ever breathed or vege'tatcd, at has or ever had lungs or leaves, may constitute anure or the fooil of plants. The moment that ani- al or vegetable lift' is extinct in any indixidual of Iher of those kinds of beings, the process of decompo- ion (in the ordinary temperature of the atmosphere) immences. This decomposition is effected by putre- ::tion, which is more or less l^apid, according to the mperature of the atmosphere, and other circumstan- s, more or less favorable to the dissolution of the caying body. Putrefaction, however, cannot take ace without the aid of water and air ; and caloric, r that mattt r which communicates to us the sensation heat) is likewise an indispensable requisite of this jcess. During the progress of fermentation, howev- , not a particle of the decaying substance is annihi- .ed, but the minute and invisible atoms of carbon, ygeu and hydrogen, which formed the body which decomposing, are unlocked or unclenched, or other- se set at liberty ; and are ready to enter into new sbinations. These particles or atoiust every good merwiU, as far as possible, arrest and convert to the ; of his plants, by means which have been hereto- c in part explained, and will be further elucidated •eafter in the course of these essays. VVc have uow given a few brief and imperfect skctch- of some subjects connected with agricultural chem- •y, partly with a view to render the topics of which we are Iriating more intelligible than would otherwise be possible, and jiartly with a hojie of turning the at- tention of the yoiuig agriculturist to a science, which is almost as necessary for a farmer, as a knowledge of arithmetic for a merchant or accountant. \\ e will conclude this number with some retli-ctions quoted from the celebrated " Letters of Agricola," wliicli may perhaps suggest a new and useful train of thought to some of our readers. " One is not able to contemplate the putrefactivi' process, and the uses it serves in the vegetable king- dom, without being struck with this admirable contri- vance ol L'i\ine Wisdom to rtinovc from our ^ight the putrid remains of animal and vegetable bodies, and change them into new and nutritious forms. '1 he beauty of the universe would have been much marred, and our senses continually offended, without this ex- pedient of putrefaction which sweeps away all trace of lormrr organized beings, by converting them into pure and uacontaminated gases. U hi se retain no tincture I of their former corruption, and are ready to enter into I new bodies invested with all the attributes of healthful. j enlivening and agr( cable existence. The vegetables cooked for our table, the butcher-meat under which it groans, are no other than new combinations of those I'utrid and nauseous steams, which, in the act of pas- sing ofl', assailed our nostrils with ungrateful odours. 'I'he dunghill which the fanner carts to the neigiibour- ing field, returns to him at harvest in the shape of use- ful roots or yellow sheaves, free from all polluted ad- mixture, and refined from the dross in the elaboratory of vegetation. I know no indication of greater skill in the Divine Intelligence, nor a more indubilable mark of his care and goodness, than this contrivance of resol- ving all dead animal and vegetable matter into element- ary principles ; that, in the first place, he might re- lieve the earth of such laalhsome incumbrances, and in the next place, be supplied with fresh materials out of which to form and sustain the new and successive fam- ilies of plants. — In a similar manner the cxcrementi- tious matter passing from man and all other animals is disposed off. In the form of manures, it is buried in the ground, which absorbs all its noxious effluvia ; and in place of exciting in us revolting sensation, it becomes the most powerful restorative of our exhausted fu Ids. There it is decomposed by the solve^jt powers of heat and water, and supplies abundance of nourishment to. the grasses and corn vegetating over it." (to be continued.) *We have omitted the fractions in the numbers ex- Msiug the proportions of the constituents of the vege- >le substances here enumerated, from a desire, as ich as possible to simplify the subjects of our remarks, f The following lines from Creecb's Lucretius may, ■haps, induce the reflecting reader to frequently turn ; mind's eye to objects of great importance, although 1 small for corporeal vision. inow there are bodies, which no eye can see, t them from tlieir effects, we grant to be, r first the winds disturb the seas, and tear e stoutc-st ships, and chase the clouds through air ; .e numerous odours too, whose smells delight, A please the nose are all too thin for sight ; sides fresh clothes extemled near the main, ow wet ; but by the sun are dried again. t what eye saw when first the moisture sate ? when it rose, and fled before the heat ? ereforc we must conclude tlie drops t' have been isolv'd to parts too subtle to be seen, y more, 'tis ccrt.iin every circling year e rings, which grace the hands diminish there, ips wear out stones, and while we plough, the share 5ws less. -astly, not even the sharpest eye e'er sees, !«/ parts to make things grow hy just degrees 'lire does add ,- nor what she takes away I ' n age steals softly on, and things decay, the same seeds compose both earth and seas, i ■ sun, the moon, all animals and trees, \ Iheir contexture, or their motion disagrees. ) 1 •4 singular instance of Hydrophobia. — A boy about 1 1 years of age, whose name was Isaiah Kendrick, in going after the cows of Mr. Gregory Stone, of Lincoln, Mass, passed a pair of bars, in or near a piece of wood land, and saw a I! acoon, which instantly flew at the lad, caught him by the thumb and held fast. The boy's cries were heard by Mr. Stone, who ran to his relief ; but he was unable to rescue the boy from the jaws of the animal, till he drew his knife, and cut the throat of the racoon. In six weeks from that date, the boy was taken with madness, died on the 29th ult. and was buried on the Ist instant. — Cotamunical td. FARMER SUMMARY OF FOREIGN AND DOMESTIC EVENTS. Lieutenant Commandant Alles of the United States' Navy has fallen in a contest with pirates. A letter from Havana, giving an account of his death, states that " This brave man fell in an action against the pi- rates on the 10th inst. in the Hay of Siguapa, about 50 miles north of Matanzas. after a most desperate engage- nient, which terminated in the capture of the principal piratical vessel, a beautiful schooner of about 80 tons, mounting one long IK pounder and four other guns, and the recapture of 5 AmerK^an vessels. The Alligator (the vessel commandeil by Capt. Allen] lost in the en- gagement two sailors killed, two mortally wounded, and three slightly wounded." Capt. Allen was buried at Matanzas, and every respect shewn by tbe public au- thorities and inhabitants, which was suitable to the laclancholy occasion. 'i he I'rize of a Silver Cup, ottered for (be best poem, whicii might be composed on the occasion of oi-cnirg a new building for a tin aire at Ihihidelf Ida, has been awarded to Air. C'ii.\ni.j:s Si ii.\(,iK of J.'eston, who wits the successful comjiiiiior for the prize medal at the opening of the New-Vork theatre about 12 montlw since. Korthern Cotton.— Vr. \\ illiam I.adh w, of Oyster Hay, (L. I.) has sent us a fine rnlton plant. «ell sioe I.- ed with full bolls, \iliieh are- now opeuing in tbe riuii- Ing room of tbe Commercial .Advertiser. — .V. i'. Sjjtcla. 'l"he West! rn Monitor, (a valuable newsf apt r printed at Lexington, Kill.) ol the 12lh ult. gives noliei- that a .Mr. 'J'homas I'uUi n, of liourbon County, has ixliibit- id a newly invented ;iiaehine for dressing be n!|> ami flax, by which " the anticipaticns of the public were fully realized." A London paper states that upon Rlr. llhodes' Es- tate, near Islington, the Ibundjitions are laying for tho erection of two thousand seven hundred houses. Mr. niiodes is one of the most extensive cow-krepers in Ilr/e vicinity of London, and a very considerable poition of the metropolis is Mip[ lied with milk frnm his c'airie.'. Tliis is a great story, eien if the houses are cow-houses, of sniall dimensionf. Chtlicothe Tu-in Cains. — .\. Chilicollie paper tells rf two twin Calves, a 'tier and an heifer, stvin yiars old, owned by George lleniick, Esq. of that niighlorhood. The stter weighe d alive*, tuo thousand jnne hundred «: ninety-six pounds, 'i'he heifer is nearly as large as the steer, and is supposed by good judges lo weigh within '200 pounds as much, but as she appeared somewhat wild, it was deemeei unsafe to weigh her. A machine for the- dressing of cloth has lately been erected in Leeds, (Eng.) which, according to an Eng- lish paper, does as much in forty-five minutes as twe) men could do in two days. An English paper state s, that, by the late population report, there are in England 57, in \\'ales 3, and in Scotland -lO men 100 years old and upwards — Of wo- men there are iu England 111, in Wales I!!, in Scot- land 02, 100 years olil and upwards. By a statement in the New-llampsjiire Patriot, it appears that 75 pei- sons have died wiihin that Stale, since 1732, who hael attained the age of lUO years and upwards ; of these', one reached 120, another ilG, and a third 115 years ; and there arc still livuig in that State the following persons who are more than 100 years of age, viz. Try- phena Stiles, of Soinerswoith, 101; Sarah Kelley of New-Hampton, 103 ; Mrs. Pailey, of Che sterile Id. 101 ; Mary Barnard, of Amherst, 101 ; and Samuel ^\■elch, of Bow, in his 1 13lh year. Ft.fheries of hal:e Superior. — It is stated in tbe De- troit Gazette (liat fishing upon an extensive scale has conime'uced on I^ake Superior, and that one man baa already taken tv/o hundred barrels. A gf.'ntleman iu Bi'iuilngton, \*t. has I'aised a crop this season, on six rods of ground, for which be recei\- ed 124 dollars and 68 cents, cash. Ceiii^ion.— Some of the notes of the Eannirs' Ex- change Bank, Gloucester, (K. I.) which failed some years ago, have been put in circulation in New York. An Apprentices Library is about to be established at Portsmouth. Two noted gamblers from New York, were lately convicted at Baltimore of keeping a gaming table, anel fined ifSSO. A numerous mission family, consisting of 18 persons, sailed from New Haven on the 20th Nov. for the Sand- wich Islands. An extensive quill manufactory has recently been established at Philadelphia. A splendid eruption e>f .Mount Versuvius occurred on the night of the Cth Sept. unaccompanied by earth- quake. On the CRth Sept. William Haygate, F.sq. merchant tailor, was elected Lord Mayor of the city of London. Two men have been arrested in Fredericksburg, Va, for passing counterfeit money ; upwards of $6000 ii> spurious notes were founil concealed in one of their trunks, and were remarkably well executed. The number of ijader graduates at Yale College i» ,371 — medical students 92 — reeieitnt graduates 18-»- making a total of 461. 152 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. SELECTED roR. THK NEW EXCLA.\D FARMFR. RURAL SCE.XERY. Sec whore the fanner, with a master's cy' , Surveys his little king^dom, and exults In sovereign independence. At a word, His feathery subjects in obedience flock Around his feeding hand, who in return Yield a delicious tribute to his board, And o'er his couch their downy plumaj^e spread. The peacock liore expands his gorgeous plumes, A glittering pageant to the mid-day sun : In the stiff awkwardness of foolish pride, The swelling turkey apes his stately sif p. And calls the bristling feathers round hi* head. There the loud herald of the morning struts Before his cackling dames, the passive slaves Of his promiscuous pleasure. O'er the pond, Iiehold the gander, and his female train, Bending their lofty necks ; and gabbling ducks, Rejoii-ing on the surface, clap their wings ; Whilst wheeling roujd, in airy wanton flights, The glossy pigeons chase tlieir sportive loves, Or in soft cooings tell their amorous tales. Here stacks of hay ; there pyramids of corn, Promise the future market large supplies : While with an air of triumph he surveys liu piles of wood, and laughs at winter's frown. fn silent rumination, see the kine. Beneath the maple's shade, patiently wait To pour into his pails their milky stores. These his amusements, his employments these ; Which still arising in successive chansre, Give to each varied hour a new delight. Peace and contentment with their guardian wings Enclose his nightly slumbers. Rosy health, When the gay lark's sweet matin wakes the morn, Imprints her dewy footsteps round the field, And cheerfulness attends his closing day. No racking jealousy, nor sullen hate. Nor fear, nor envy, discompose his breast. His only enemies the prowling fox And haggard wolf, that thin the bleating fold ; The bristly porcupine, the cruel hawk, With eye malignant on the little brood Palling around portentous. Th' amphibious otter bold ; the weasel sly, I'ilfering the yolk from its enclosing shell ; And moles, a dirty undermining rare. These are his foes, and these, alas, compar'd With man to man an inoffensive train. 'Gainst these assisted by th' entangling net, Th' explosive thunder of the levelPd tube. Or toiU unwearied of his social friend. The faithful dog, he wages rural war, .\nd health and pleasure in the sportive field Obtaining, he forgives their venial crimes. Pigs in tlie character of Ministers of Justice. An ohl Eng-li^li writer g-ivos lliR fdllniving' uc- «'OU!it of a signal instance of justice jierfornieil by ()ic;s. — " Certain pirates, nlio seem not well to have learned their busiiie*';, since thev were unable to swim, had landed on the coast of Tus- cany, and carried ofl" the sivine from a farm. A- the robbers were jiaddling off from the shore, their keeper returned and blew his horn, by whicii he had been accustomed to call his .swine to their tncals. At the well known sound, the ^rnnters all started up, and crowding to one side of the boat, overturned it, and swam ashore to their ketper, leaving the unfortunate thieves to drown. A liORKID .SCLM. OF CllUKKTV. The following is taken from Laicrence^a Treatise of Xcat Cattle. The author is an Englishman, whose works have been praised in British Reviews and quot- ed with approbation in British Cyclopedias, and other ] works of science. We do not give this relation by way of ."'jgmatiziug the lower orders of the English as pecu- liarly atrocious, nor by way of halancini; the charges which some foreigners have exhibited against Ameri- cans, for not being so civil, humane, enlightened and highly polished as their brethren on the other side of the Atlantic. But we exhibit it by way of shewing what ferocious animals mankind arc, when they can divest themselves of the restraints which religion and the regulations of society impose upon their passions and propensities. " I s^ive place tn the following anecdote, from a sense of duty, and by no means in a frame of mind, to treat the subject in a tender, still less in a ludicrous way. Far from thinking that the knowledge of flagrant acts of cruelty should be delicately hushed and suppressed, in m}' opinion, they cannot be proclaimed too loud, or dissemin- ated too widely, for the purpose of raising a general abhorrence, exciting a due sense of shame, or imparting the needful information to those whom custom and prejudice hold in a con- temptible and degrading state of ignorance. I dare trust myself with making few remarks ; in- deed the bitterest language of execration would fall I'ar short of what is due to the enormities of the tale to be told ; the senseless and beastly actors in which are, however, inferior in guilt to the cool, deliberate, and argumentative de- fenders of such infernal games. ' November the Sth, last, at Bury, a bull, naturally gentle ! which had in the morning, previous to baiting, been privately baited, and goaded with sharp instru- ments, in order to render him furious, though tied down with ropes, in his agony from being worried by dogs, and goaded by more inhuman dogs in human shapes, burst his ropes, to the terror of his tormentors, and the no small danger of the peace of the inhabitants : after this, the poor beast was doomed to be the victim of the still greater barbarity of fresh tortures — he was entangled again with ropes, and, horrible to re- late, his hoofs were cut off, and he again baited while he had to defend himself on his mantrled, bleeding stumps. The magistrates of Bury have repeatedly tried to prevent such infernal, demoniacal proceedings ; but the demons are sanctioned, it seems, bv a.n act of parliami:nt ! Surely such an act is highly disgraceful to the age we live in, and to this country. Kxtrac- ted from a magazine; and sorry I am to observe, that HO doubt need be made of its authenticity. Should this account chance to fall into the hands of actors in scenes like these, or into those of the still more guilty palliators of them (lor hy- pocritical extenuation is intlnitely the greater crime,) 1 beg of them seriously to reflect on the possiliility of those tortures, which they have thus wantonly inflicted, although upon a poor and friendless beast, intruding upon their minds, when their own bodies may be racked and tor- iured with disease, perhaps on their death bed, and in their last agonized moments. Will they t/un thiidi, that the infliction of torments upon one animal ou^ht to convey pleasing and mirth- ful sensations to the breast of another?" PATENT GRIDIRON. New-York, 12th Nov. 1822 To Mr. Mcssey. I willingly, sir, give you my opinion on yo patent, economical utensil, the hollow-barr Gridiron, with a Reflector and a Dripping-P; Broiling has been considered as the most voury, but at the same time the most vvastei way of cooking meat. Your invention remo'v in a great measure, from this operation, t charge of extravagance, by saving the fat a juice from destruction by the hot coals. T rays ol' heat, repelled from the bright si face of tin, aild to it the valuable properties the Dutch oven. Having satisfied myself experiment that it is admirable in a saving mt nor, I recommend your gridiron and its appt tenance, as a piece of kitchen apparatus, to ; house-keepers who are desirous of combini the luxury of eating with frugalitv in cookir SAMUEL M'ITCIIELL. N. B. The above Gridiron may be seen this office, and orders received for them. a; Y. J^at. Adv. Rare Sport. — A Farmer who lived on the la shore, observing a bear crossing a bay was at ious to kill him. He ran to his skiff and wit out reflecting that he had no weapon but 1 j paddle, worked his way to the bear, who imil diately sprung into the skiff, and to the gn terror and consternation of the farmer, very ( liberately sat down on the bow. The Farm after some reflection, determined to carry h b.ick and attempted to turn the boat, but the b« made an advance to prevent him, and the b( impelled by the wind having gained its first j silion the bear again very quietly took his st on the bow. The farmer made a second a third attempt with always the same result; a perceiving that when the boat went the w the bear was swimming, he was quiet, he ve prudently determined to reach the land in tl direction. He accordingly went on, and wh he was within a few feet of the shore, the bla passenger leaped out, to the great satisfaction both himself and the ferryman. — Western pap I Franklin. — It is rather a curious incident tl Iwhen the Americans sent Dr. Franklin, a pr ter, as Minister to France, the Court of Vi 1 sallies sent M. Girard, a bookbinder, as Minist ' to Congress. When Dr. Franklin was fold ! it, " Well," said he, " Fll print the Indepf dence of America, and M. Girard will bi'nd it. noOO persons are said to have attended an Oratorio at Thiladelphia last week. In the year 1776 a Bill was introduced iol the British House of Commons, for the bett watching of the Metropolis, in order to efTc'" which object one of the clauses went to propo that watchmen should be compelled to sleep day. Lord Nugent, with admirable humor, l up, and desired that he might be personallij i eluded in the provisions of the bill, being ti quenlly so tormented with the gout as to unable to sleep by day or by night. To desire little makes poverty equal wi riches. He who wants, is not rich ; nor he wl wants not, poor. — Riches are not to be ineasi ed by their use ; 1 cannot call large possessio rich, but so much as is conducive to comfort- NEW ENGLAND FARMER. .blished tvery Saturday, by THOMAS W. SHEPARD, Rogers' Building, Congress Street, Boston ; at $'J,5U per ann. in advauc , ,n- 5.-i,0U at llie close ot" tlii year. Vol. I. BOSTON, SATURDAY, DECEMBER U, 1822. No. 20. From the iVational ^gis. MINERALOGICAL No. IV. In the estimate of the wealth of our country, 6 Antliracite, or as it is here improperly called e Black Lead, should not be omitted. As a imbuslible it resembles Coal in many circum- inces of its character, and for many uses is •eferable to that mineral. Altho' there is some fficulty in igniting it in the first instance, yet hen the process of combustion is once commen- id it goes on with rapidity. The heat which produced is intense, and its production is unac- )napanicd with smoke. For the smelting of ■es, for the conversion of iron into steel, in the irning of Lime-stone ; in distillation, and in ose mechanical operations where the desider- um is a strong, durable, and continued heat, it ay be employed with singular advantage. It is not here been used as fuel, but there is ) doubt that it would succeed on experiment jually well, as the same substance in its appli- itioQ to this use, when dignilied by the name ■ Rhode Island Coal. It is the opinion of a stinguished mineralogist that a broad vein of athracite crosses this section of country passing om Rhode Island, thro' Worcester, into New ampshire. It has here been converted into paint, which forms a cheap and durable cover- g for the roofs of buildings. In a reo^ion here the forests are daily receding before the e of cultivation, it will become neccessarv to ovide a substitute for the growth of the" an- snt wood. That this substance may become val- blc for such a use, admits of little doubt. Another individual closely associated with at to which we have alluded, is the Graphite riving its appellation from the facilities it af- rds in the art of writing, but which has been [ually unfortunate as its neighbour in receiving name. It forms the material of those crayons roneously known, by the term. Black Lead jDcils. These misnomers are of little consc- ience in themselves but are adverted to mere because correctness is preferable to error. The Sulphate of Iron, the Copperas of Con- erce exists in many of the rocks ofourcomty id is discoverable by analysis to be held ii so- tion in some instances in the waters vhich read themselves over the surface of merdows. Itbo' perhaps, in sutHcient abundance topreju- ce vegetation, yet it would not form ar advan- geous article of manufacture. The Slate which appears upon the sarface in unerous localities is quarried in but few. 'hen the villages of the present day shall be lilt into towns, when the .spires of the city lall take the place of the more modest habita- DDSofthe town, when a dense ^lopulation shall ; gathered upon the borders o^ the highways, ese will furnish employment for industry and pply materials for building. lu the catalogue of those substances which are jduable to the Farmer, we have not included OS.? which gratify the eye of the scientific ■ sei ve only to ornament the shelves of the cab- et. Nor shall we trespass longer upon the itience, which we fear has already been so se- ;rely tried, by making such an enumeration. Although there is much here to invite attention, we shall not delay to note the brilliancy of aur- ficts, the changing colors, the variety of form or the curious structure of those which belong to a stricter and more scientific survey. The chrystrils of Quartz, a mineral which pervades every region, here often tempt the unskilful, wiih the promise of counties? treasures of dia- monds, those who take dl that glitters for gold, have often fancied that the lustre of the beau- tiful cubes of Sulphuret of Iron, was the splen- dor of a more valuable metal, and the exercise of a moderate «arnithof imagination has con- verted the little plates of Mica, into spangles of Silrer. .Although the promise that was given to shew the advantages of the study of Mineralogy, has been but inadequately performed, yet we trust it uill have been seen that its cultivation is not of doubtful utility to the farmer. His daily toil is reijuired for the daily necessities of a busy lil'e. Ye. there are many intervals of leisure which ma/ be occupied in the acquisition of information, wi'hout prejudice to his more pressing, but not mo'e important business. If the object of his labours is the acquisition of wealth, it were folly to fvcrlook the course which leads most direct- ly ;o it. To travel on, in the same path which our fathers have trod, without understanding whether it is the best, or knowing those roads which may be more easy and direct, discovers but little wisdom. Nothing is so inimical to the progress of improvement as ill-founded preju- dices, hastily embraced but warmly defended. This inveterate attachment to old customs is l:iii/able, so far only as it discourages rash inno- vations. When it closes the ears, to proposi- tions for experiments which are supported by reason and recommended by probability, it is illiberal and unworthy of men who are compe- tent to think as well as act for themselves. — "To him that hath shall be given"'' is a maxim as true in science and agriculture as in morals. The more numerous are the principles which are learned, the more numerous will be the streams which will bring information to the mind, from its increased powers of observation and re- flection. The greater the amount of knowl- edge, the greater will be the means of increas- ing property, by better methods of tillage, and by the superiority of management. //' Marie exists it should not remain in its native beds when it might be employed in spreading fertili- ty around in its vicinity. If the harvests have been blasted, let us seek out the causes of the evil, and take this first essential step towards its removal. If the Wheat and the Rye have not succeeded on our hills, let us ascertain what peculiar properties in our soils have been un- friendly to them. Let the owner of land, ask of himself, what arc the qualities of the plain, or the meadow, what are requisite and proper for the nourishment of the grass or the grain, and what applications are most suitable to restore its riches to the exhausted field? If these questions cannot be answered in a satisfactory manner, let him have recourse to those simple processes which are offered to him, by those who have em- ployed their powers in thesQ investigations. Who would be ignorant of the elements of tlie profes- sion in which he is occupied? Who would be liable to continual errors in practice and con- stant disappointment as their unavoidable conse- i quence, when the want of those few principles which have occasioned them, might be so read- ily supplied. Few men are so drstitute of cu- riosity, as to be intimate with objects around them for years, and never to feol an inclina- tion to become acquainted with their names. .\nd why should we be content to stumble over the rocks, that are strewed along our pathway, without even looking ujjon them and cietenniii- ing how far thay may be valuable ? The great difficulty ivhich has been encount- ered by tlio;tter culture to both, or the first will soo clange masters. J. Free Exports and Imports — The best secvl rity for regular demand and supply 4. The Congress of the United States — WoOll they five Agriculture more of their works, an less oi their f'aith ; Agriculture would give thw more of her money, and less of her complaint' 5. Fear, free Trade and Universal Commerce- The be^ pioneers, for liberty, knowledge, an j universalgood government. 6. Prohibitory Duties, and the self-flagellation i of Sancho Panza, plants from the same nursery- A fool's cap, with ass's ears, is due to the inven,] lorsofboth. i 7. Moderate and competent profits to all, es travagant ones to none. 8. Steady and regular prices to every occu inition, the healthful trade-winds of natiooa:!! |)rosperity; exorbitant gain, the tornadoes tha ' ruin them all. | 9. Our Plough-shares and our S-jnords — Ma; ' the first never be last, nor the last first. 10. Speed to our Ploughs; industry, skill am honesty to their drivers ; and a prudent enligbt ened ecoaoiny to the owners of the soil, NEW ENT5LAND FARMER. 155 11. Banks — The most appropriate ones for jriculture, are those erected by the Spade. 12. The Land and the Ocean — The value of e first, much depends on the free use of the last. 1 J. The Matrons and Maidens of Confederated iirrica — Our last toast, but the lirst objects of 1 r^teera and affection. Ail Address was given by Mr. Garnett, which ; propose to republish in a future number. A v.riter in the American Farmer with the nature " Hugh Hartshorn," says, " If not ncrally known, it may be useful to mention a ry easy and excellent method of making but- r, in winter, or in cold weather, late in the 1. We began it last foil, and have practiced since with uniform success. It consists sim- Y in heating the cream, instead of souring it,in e usual troublesome and tedious manner. The eam, as it is skimmed, is put into a vessel, un- eiiough is collected tor churning, and kept any convenient place where it will not freeze. is then poured into a copper or brass kettle d hung over the fire until scalding hot, but is t suffered to boil — it is then poured back again ;o the cream pot, and left to stand till evening, which time it ivill be nearly cool, rather oler than new milk ; it is then churned, and tb us, has never failed to produce good butter a very short time ; and of abetter quality and lor than when soured in the usual way- lo- ed it is scarcely any more trouble to make iter in this way in winter, than in the usual )de in summer. Care, hov/ever, must be ta- il that the (ire be not too strong, as, if the sam should be in the least burnt, it will give tter an unpleasant taste." rhe making of butter from scalded cream has long ;n practiced in England. (See No. 2, page 12 of the E. Farmer.) Mixing one quart of boiling water ;h every eight quarts of milk, as recommended in . Hunter's Georgical Essays, (see No. 16, page 123) uld probably facilitate churning as well as deprive '. milk of any disagreeable taste resulting from the Its having been fed on turnips. But when brass or tper vessels are used for scalding milk or cream, ca:e lat be taken to keep them perfectly clean, and :iot scald lour milk or cream in them, nor even to let" ■eet milk or cream stand m them to cool, lesi the uids become in some degree impregnated with ver- jirease, which they acquire from the metal. Siceel Ik or cream, while hoi will have no effect on brass or pper, but when cool, will corrode [oxidize] those !tals, and become more or less poisonous. Milk and ;am when sour, either cold or hot, will corrode brass copper vessels, and become more or less poisonous. — Ed. A'. E. Farmer. From the Farmers' Weekly Messenger, A WORD TO A THINKING F.IRMER. A common sap, wooden hooped cider barrel ists 83 cents, and bj' hooping it once, (which ! .ill cost 40 cents) it will last four years; after I 'is it is generally unfit to put liquor in. A llhite oak, iron bound hogshead can be had new, ("heart stuff, well painted, to hold about three irrels and a half, for §5. — This will require to J smeared over with some kind of refuse oil, ith a little Spanish brown and lamp black in ,once in three years, (which may be done at •me leisure time, such as a rainy day,) and it ill then last a man's life time. I am told that lere are people in the state of Maine who have had casks of this description in their pos- session, in constant use, for upwards of iifly years, which now appear as good as new. — Heart stuff barrels are to be found in every part of our country from twenty to thirty years old, which have never been painted at all. Is it not truly surprising, when these facts are so well known, that any farmer should purchase sap barrels to put liquor in, at any price? From the best information which I am able to get 1 believe it will be found that the expense ol keeping casks to keep twenty barrels of cider in, will be one year with another, reckoning every expense, nearly as follows; To keeping twenty barrels of cider in barrels with wooden hoops, $8,50 To ditto ditto in heart stuff barrels with wood hoops and not painted, 4,50 To ditto ditto in heart stuff barrels with iron hoops, painted, 3,00 To ditto ditto with iron bound hogsheads, painted, 2,50 When it is considered that cider is so much better by being kept in hogsheads than in bar- rels, it is evidently much cheaper to keep cider in hogsheads than in sap barrels, at even a quar- ter their present cost. It is true large timber is becoming an article of so much importance that hogshead staves are in many places very difficult to be got ; but staves of heart stnff that will make casks which will hold sixty gallons can be had almost any where : and I should think that the most incred- ulous person will find by inquiry that iron bound casks with thick staves, to hold as much as he can well get them, if they are kept well housed and painted, will produce a clear saving of from ttvo to four hundred per cent. Many of our heart stuff casks are, however, very poor, owing to the staves being so thin. The rum hogs- heads we get of merchants are often risky to purchase, as there are generally some sap staves in most hogsheads, and they are often injured by being strained at sea. If farmers can save twenty or even ten per cent, in any branch of husbandry, they ought to be attentive to it; for in agriculture, as well as in religion, " he that disregardeth small things shall fall btj little and littl^.''' A. From tlie New York Statesman. THE TREADING MILL. We have visited this new, and we doubt not powerful machine, in the reformation of vice, and prevention as well as punishment of crime. It is erected in a building provided for the pur- pose, at the Penitentiary establishment, and con- sists of two long wheels, turning like a squirrel's rolling cage, only that the weight is applied out- side instead of inside of the bar or steps. Each wheel is long enough for sixteen persons to stand upon it together, supported by a hand- rail, shifting their feet with short and quick steps, to prevent being without support bj' the foothold rolling inwards from under them. A screen separates the two wheels, each of which, interlocked by ordinary machinery with each other, is moved by the weight or specific grav- ity of 16 persons, and the whole force applied, in an adjoining apartment, to the movement of two pair of mill-stones, which grind the usual quantity produced by the amount of power. — Each wheel is attended by thirty-two persons (one by males and the other by females) one half of whom arc employed in exercise or labor, while the others are at rest; at the sound of a bell, striking about once each half minute, the person at one end of the wheel stepping off, the remainder moving down, and another stepping on at the head. Thus each person is employed cirrht hours a day, alternately in exercise and rest, eight minutes at each interval, from eight in the morning to four in the afteruoon. The effect of this discipline, it is believed, will be of the most salutary and une(]ui vocal nature. Al- though the employment at first appears light and easy, it is already found by experience, probably from its unri'inittcd regularity, in itself the dread of the idle and ])roiligate, to have a serious and lasting effect on its subjects. Tiu? itrisoners are daily coni]daining of indisposition or fatigue, and taken from the wheels by direc- tion of the physician. A register is kept of their services ; and but very few, if any, it is confidently expected, after being once di-charg- ed from this cage, will merit a return to the Treadins Mill A SHORT STORY, As told by Mr. Matthezcs, the Cuincdian. " My friend and myself, when in Devonshire, were visiting an acquaintance, who had a daugh- ter not remarkable either for her wit, beaut}', or accompl shments. She had passed the grand climacteric, and was certainly on the wane ; her heart had lost none of its susceptibility to le grand passion. She had for ten years been conspicuous for her dress, airs, and " beau- catchers ;" but alas ! she had toiled all night at balls, routs, and levees, but had caught no beau. Being as vain as she was simple, we thought her fair game for a quiz. Miss Lucretia Elvira, said I, have you heard of the late act of parlia- ment, by whijch all ladies with small mouths f-hall be allowed to marrv two husbands ? " No, Sir, said she, (SCREWING LP HER MOUTH IN- TO A PUCKER)— what a curis law I" You are wrong, Edward, said my friend to me ; those ladies with large mouths are to be allowed two husbands. " L.\W JIE 1" exclaimed she, (open- ing her mouth as big as a bucket,) " what a ctirri-ous law !" MISERIES OF EDITORS. The following catalogue of editorial grievan- ces is from the new editor of the Nantucket In- quirer : " We are often-times forced to unravel hiero- glyphics, that would puzzle an Egyptian necro- mancer;— to decypher cltirographij which is more like crijptograj>hy, and resembles a Mosaic MS. rather tlian any post-diluvian production ; — to transpose the idioms of all languages into that of our mother tongue, as well as we know how ; — to affix punctuation to things that came to us without point or character. We have prose to translate, wherein the tirst letter of every line is an obstinate Capital ; — and poetry to measure and versify, in which the capitals stand up in thick array, like scare-crows in a pea- patch, or ' sheep's bones round a parsley bed.' " A man of an agreeable and merry disposition, but verj' poor, finding one night, some tliieves in his house, told them, without putting himself in a passion, I cannot imagine what you expect to find in my house in the night, when 1 can find nothing in it in the day time. 156 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. A:lhougli we beiiuve the lollowiiij Has .iictcittd l)y honorable feeling;?, and that the writer in originatirij th; production was merely solicitous that honor should be given where honor is due, wc cannot think that there was any inlention in the gentlem'.ii wlio made and drank the toast, which it seems has given offence, to wound any person's feelings, or to overlook the me- rits of the Berkshire Agricultural Society. In a mo- ment of conviviality, it cannot be expected that the scale of justice will always be held with a sltaiiij hand, and if merit should happen to kick the beam it should be overlooked as an occurrence, which if not justified, is perhaps palliated by circuraslances. We do not perceive that the Hon. Mr. VVelles's reply, and the loast he gave in answer to that of the 'Worcester gen- tlemen can in any degree implicate liim. Common civility required a reply, and it would hardly have been proper for iMr. Welles to have said that the com- pliment contained in the toast was misapplied. Still, as we said before, we appreciate the motives of our respected correspondent, and, perhaps ourviews of the subject are incorrect — besides 7ion est nobis tantas cum- ponere lilts. It does not belong to us to settle the dis- pute— but we ivish it settled. TO THE F.OITOR OF THE SEW F.XOLAVn FARMER. We have taken pleasure in reaciinsr the de- tails of the proceedings of Agricultural Societies the past season in your valuable paper. The proceedings of tlie Worcester County Agricul- tural .Society have attr.tcted our attention. Wc rejoice at the successful efforts and displays of this Society, and we admire their zeal in this greatest and best of all causes. We are not disposed to abridge them of the pleasure of jfener.d admiration, nor debar them of courting the ap|)robation of other Societies, if not done at the expence of truth and justice. We how- ever cannot greatly profess ourselves to admire or approve of the following toast, given on that occasion, and echoed by a member of the Ma«- .sachijsetls Society. " The Massachusetts V?i''cultural Society — The soul which animat d "the Heart," and which is infusing life into the extremilits of the Commonwealth." If we were to remain silent on this occasion, It would be construed into an high degree of inspTisiliility and want of attention to the well founded fame of another Society in this State, to which the sentiment of the toast could apply with truth and without cause of offence. That the Worcester Society should have courted a compliment, at this very recent stale of its ex- istence, is no subject of wonder, but that the Hon. Mr. Welles, who became the organ of the compliment, and was a Trustee of the Massa- chusetts Society, should have forgotten the hon- orable distinction heretofore awarded to the Beritshire Association, and placed on their an- nals, is indeed a wonder. It is not our object to provoke any collision or inauspicious rivalries among citizens and societies devoted to the .same great and useful pursuit^^ — nor are we in the least dis|)Osed to detract from the distinguished merits and valua- ble elfort" which characterize the Massachusetts Agricultural Society. But we are disposed to think, that exact and equal justice to men in all their relations to society is the most honorable and useful course, and the least liable to pro- duce dissatisfaction and opposition. The truth is, much caution and delicacy is re(|uisite to conciliate good feelings among Societies which are much excited, and by whom great ardor is displayed in the pursuit. On this subject we quote the sage and timely counsels of the ven- erable President Adams, formerly President of the Massachusetts Society, in a letter of August 11, 1812, to a friend in Berkshire. "• You may depend upon it, your Berkshire Agricultural Society, and our M;issachusetts Society for Pro- moting Agriculture will assuredly quarrel and go to war unless both are managed with great prudence, delicacy, caution and circumspection. Sat verbum. How is it, that agriculture and commerce are rivals in France, England, Hol- land ? and what tremendous consequences have resulted from those rivalries, the history of mankind will shew." Whenever the Massa- chusetts Society, or any other Society for her, shall assume the tnerit of being " the soul which animates, the lieart which is infusing life into the extremities of the state," — the Berkshire Society will interpose her veto to that assumption, founded on the following facts. What was the state of the Massachusetts Socie- ty previous to 1811, when the Berkshire Asso- ciation commenced its successful career ? Had that Society infused any life or animation in the promotion of agriculture in its immediate sphere of action, much less to the distant extremities of the Stale, sufficient to divest themselves of the proffered annual premiums? Previous to the existence of ihe Berkshire Association, was the Massachusetts Society nf any practical utility ? .And what were the fruits of a band of Patriots, who from the best of motives sustained their measures, previous to 1816, when they held their first exhibition at Brighton, fotlo-jL'ivg the t'uotsteps nf the Berkshire Society, other than the production of an annual volume on affricultiire. which was little known and le.ss regarded ? — That this question may be settled forever, and we charitably hope satisfactorily, wc will ap- |)cal to the best authority, that of the Massa- chusetts Society. What the effects of the ex- ample and efforts of the Berkshire Society sub- sequent to 1815, not only on this State, but tiie Nation, were, we do appeal triumphantly to the iollowing extract from the address of the Hort. John Lowell, at the first exliibition at Brighton, m 1816: — "The Berkshire Society, though comparatively in its infancy, and restricted in lis means, had with a vigor and intelligence which did it the highest credit, taken the lead in establishing exhibitions of this nature, whicli has been productive of great emulation, of ini- provomenls in agriculture." " It is our pr.de to acknowledge that we follow the footsteps of a younger Society, thus evincing that we are ready freely to acknowledge merit, wherever it may be found." Upon this evidence we rest the decision, whether the reverse of the toast is not the truth — that the Berkshire Association was tkc soul zvftich animated, and the lieart which inj'uscd life not only into the Massachusetts Society, but the State and JVation. Anxious to be usel'ul, to be the channel for diffusing the richest Messiijg to our country, the Berkshire Society pursue their objects with unabated diligence, and only desire that New England, nor the United States will ever permit themselves to forget the origin of a system, which has produced to general and increasing good. To our friends in Worcester, and every where, we would say, that the high spirit and conscious dignity of Berkshire, will never suffer to pass unnoticed any attempts to detract from their just and well sustained clain ** at originality and usefulness in their agricultUM*'' system. A Member of the Berkshire A;riculturat Societ; FACTS AND OBSERVATIOKS RELAT1.\G TO AGRICULTURE &l DOMESTIC ECONOiM^ ^ I. FOR THE NEW E.NGL.AXD FARMER. SAGACIOUS BBEED OF CATTLE. In the Hottentot districts of the Cape of Goo IIoj)e the natives not only use their bison-oxet which are of good size, for the saddle aD>i draught, but train them to war. These cattl*' being assembled in troops, with a Hottentot ai ' my, on a given signal, rush upon the enem. • with great fury, goring with their horns, trampi'' ling with their feet, and overturning everv ob i' starle which opposes them. Individuals of then, • are also set to watch the flocks and herds, in thi -' manner of shepherd's dogs, which they faithfal ly perform like the dog, distinguishing friend from enemies, caressing the former, and attack ing the latter with the utmost rage. A RACE-OX ; AND Nn.4T CATTLE FOR THE SADDLE. Some years ago a Sussex [English] ox rai four miles over Lewis' Course, for a hundrei ' guineas, which he performed after the rate o •■ lil'teen miles per hour. In India, travellini nxiii are curried, clothed, and attended with a ' rn\ic!i solicitude, and much greater kindnes llirin we bestow on our best horses. The In dian cattle are extremely docile, and quick o )' pprcoption, patient and kind; like the horse !' Ilieir chief travelling gait is a trot, and it is san tlioy often perform journeys of sixty successivi days, at the rate of thirty to forlj-five miles : da v. LMPROVEMENT IN THE BREED OF CATTLE. The formation of an entire new breed, in tht establishment of a permanent variety is a mat ler requiring the most diHgent altenton, througl a long course. For that reason it is commoni} the shortest and safest method to part entirely with an inferior stock, or such as requires mr.cb amendment, and to replace with a species the nearest to perfection even at a high price. The following remarks on the subject are from Messrs. Wells &, Lilly's edition of Deaue's New England Farmer, under the article " Buix." " It was formerly believed that a frequent change of animals, from one country, or one section of a country, to another, was indispen- sable to the preservation of a pure and excellent breed of cattle, but this idea is almost exploded. Bakewell, Princeps, and other noted graziers and raisers of stock in England have proved, that it is by careful selection of individuals of good forms and properties, that a race o( cattle can be best improved. The system of " breed- ing in and in," which contines the improved races or animals to their own families, is now much more in fashion, and the success of the British graziers, and the best experience of our own country seem to justify the opinion. Im- portations of the best animals of Great Britain have been made, it is true, and they have essen- tially and manifestly improved our stock. But this does not disprove the utility of '' breeding ill and in," because these excellent imported ani- mals were prodi'CJd, and brought to their pres- ent perfection by the principle of selection from ^ NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 157 h ■ «;inie excellent stock. And when imported li: re, the principle ot" " breeding in and in,'" ar preserving' the stock hos been scrupulously ladhcred to, with liii^hly beneticial elTects. " Before we quit this article, it miy be ad- duced as a proof of the soundness of the modern doctrine, as opposed to the old pr;ictice of cro.«v- ing the breeds constantly, that, as to horses, the interest in which is much greater m some conn- iries on account of the rage for the plsiasures ol the chace and of the turf, it is an established law, that the race should be kept pure, and the pedigree of a race-horse is as accurately pre- served as that of a line of kings." It appears that the pedigrees of certain breeds of cattle have been preserved in Great Britain of late years with all possible care, and the same practice is not without precedent in the United Slates. See No. 17 — page 134 of the New England Farmer. (OWS SHOUI.n NOT BE EXHAUSTED BY MILKING. The COW which is desired to remain in pei- i fectiou, either fur milking or breeding, should I not be exhausted by drawing her milk too long I after she becomes heavy with calf, it is to pay too dear for a present supply of milk. She should be sulTered to go dry, at least, two months before calving. ON THE LMPORTANCE OP PROCURING A GOOD BREED or cows. The expense of keeping cows of a poor breed ifa as great and sometimes greater than that of keeping the best. If cows are poorly kept, the diflference in breeds will scarcely be discernible by the product in milk. Some have, therefore, supposed that it is the food alone, which m.ike< the odds in the quantity and quality of milk. — This supposition is very incorrect, as may he evinced by feeding two cows of a similar ag\ size, &c. on the same food, the one of a goo) breed for milk, and the other of a different kind, and observing the difference in the milk product. No farmer unless he is very rich cin aiiord to keep poor milch cows. He might al- most as well keep a breed of " naked sheep,'" such as Swift tells of in his Gulliver's Travels. The farmer who raises a heifer calf, that is from a poor milker, of a bad or mongrel breed, is as foolish as he would be, if in clearing land he should burn on the ground the birch, maple and walnut, and save white pine and hemlock for fire wood. And yet many farmers sell the hyifer calves of the best milch cows to the buichers, because they are the fattest. Such folks deserve to be poor, and may expect to meet with their deserts. cows WHICH GIVE THE GREATEST QCANTrTY OF THIN MILK, THE MOST PROPER FOR SUCKLING CALVES. Those COWS which give the greatest quaniuy ©f milk are the most profitable for suckling calves, for rich milk is said to be not so proper food for calves as milk which is less valuable for dsdry purposes. Milk which contains a large proportion of cream is apt to clog the stomachs of calves ; obstruction puts a stop to their thri- ving, and sometimes proves fatal. For this rea- son It is best that calves should be fed with the milk which first comes from the cow, which is not so rich as that which is last drawn. DIFFERENCE IN THE MILK OF COWS. Dr. AaderaoQ relates that a frieud of bis, who kept only a single cow for the use fiimilv, bouiiht one from a person from I'lftecn to twenty cows, chiefly for the pur- pose of rearing cnlves, but in part lor the dairy. This cow was recommended as one, which gave a large quantity ol milk tor her size, and her milk was said to be of an excello^it quality. — This last was a circumstance of great conse- quence to the gentleman, who proposed to buy the cow, who therefore took care to taste the milk and found it to be apparently very good. But although the milk was Ihick and rich to the taste if never coull be brought to >iiili an atom itj hiilier^ though every method, which could be devised, was tried for that purpose. This cow had g.vin milk for three seasons nefore she was sold, without its having been discovered that her milk did not give as much butter as that of anv other cow. This experiment proves that there may be individual cows which j'ield milk of qualities different from that which the eye and tlw taste would seem to indicate. It would therefore be well for every person, who wishes to superintend a dairy with a proper attention to economy, always to ascertain the qualities of the milk of every cow individually, as soon as she is turned into the dairy ; otherwise he may proceed for years without knowing that he is subjecting himself to a great expence without deriving any advantrige from it. It may like- wise happen, that from casual disease, or other circumstances the milk of the cow may become tainted at a particular time with a peculiar taste or other quality, which may greatly injure the whole stock if it be mixed with it, and occasion loss to the owner. It is, therefore, recommend- ed, as an invariable practice in every dairy, to 'veep each cow's milk separate, on the first day of the month, at least, throughout the year, for the purpose of ascertaining the quantity and f|uality of the milk yielded by eveiy cow indi- vidually. Were this practice strictly adhered to, 't would advance the practical knowledge of the dairy more in the space of one year, than can 1)0 done in the random mode usually adopted in a century. CALVES SHOULD HAVE ROOM, LIGHT AND AIR. An English writer of high authority, says " I have heard and read much of calf-coops for calves which were fatting, where the animals had no room for turning themselves, and where the light is excluded ; but I have no conception of the necessity of such measures in order to make good veal. I have made, with despatch, as good and as fat veal, as Leadenhall market can exhibit, in common pens without the small- est obligation to any of the aforesaid extraordi- nary precautions, which, in truth, I disapprove, as equally probable to induce disease as to ac- celerate the fattening of calves." It has been recommended to cram hogs and poultry also in dark and confined places without allowing the poor animals either light, fresh air, or exercise. But these should seem requisite for health in the animals, and the meat of unhealthy ones would not seem to be a very wholesome article of diet. of his own i ken into the stomach, it ought to be generally who kept known that these oxides, even in a state of so- lution, as well as the oxides of copper, may be rendered innoxious, by the exhibition of a lar^o dose of common sugar, or sirup. — Sec Dr. Ure's Chemical Dictionunj. WINE TESTS, OR METHODS OF ASCERTAINING WHETHER THERE BE ANY LEAD IN WI.SE OR CIDER. We are told that fraudulent »vine merchants have sweetened their wines and ciders by the I addition of lead. Dr. Watson relates that it was at one time a common practice at Paris. lie directs how it may be detected — Chemical Es- says, vol. 111. page 3G9. Methods of detecting this and other adulterations oi wine may also be seen in Dr. Willich's Lectures on Ilict and Regimen, pages r357 to 362. The following is ea.sy of application, and will be found effectual : Equal parts of oyster shells and sulphur may bo. heated together, kept in a white heat for 15 minutes, and when cold, mixed with an equal quantity of cream of tartar : These are put in- to a strong bottle with common water to boil for an hour ; and then decanted into ounce phials, adding 20 drops of muriatic acid to each. This liquor precipitates the least quantity of lead, copper, &c. from wines, in a very sensible black precipitate. As iron might accidentally be con- tained in the same wine, the muriatic acid is added to prevent its precipitation, and its being mistaken for the precipitate of lead. REMEDY FOR POISON BY THE OXIDES* OF LEAD OR COPPER. As the oxides of lead are poisonous, when ta- FAP..MER S ACCOUNTS. Regular accounts, says a celebrated agricul- turist, are not so common among farmers as they ought to be, and in this respect, persons employed in other professions, are much more attentive and correct. The accounts of a far- mer, occupving even a large estate, and conse- quently employing a great capital, are seldom deemed of sufficient importance to merit a share of attention, equal to that bestowed by a trades- man, on a concern of not one twentieth part of the value. There is certainly some difficulty iu keeping accurate accounts respecting the profit and loss of so uncertain and complicated a business as the one carried on by a farmer, which depends so much on the weather, the state of markets, and other circumstances not under his control ; but the great bulk of farming transactions is settled at the moment, that is to say, the article is delivered, and the money at once paid ; so that little more is necessary than to record these properly. In regard to expen- ses laid out on the farm, an accurate account of them is perfectly practicable, and ought to be kept by every prudent and industrious far* mer. The advantage to be derived from regular accounts, cannot be doubted. By examining them, a farmer is enabled to ascertain the na- ture and the extent of the expense he has in- curred, in the various operations of agriculture ; and to discover what particular measures, or what general system contributes to profit, or occasions loss. The principle of economy may thus be introduced into the management of a farm ; and the lessening of expense effected, which is every day becoming of greater im- portance, bearing a higher proportiop to the produce of the farm. * An oxide is a metal combined with oxygen [vital air] extracted either from the atmosphere [when it is called rust"] or from some acid sutstance, tucb as viae* gar, sour jnilk, cider, wine, &c. 158 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. In order to facilitate the adoption of so useful a plan as the keeping of regular accounts, it would be of use that not only memorandum books, for the transactions of the da}-, but ac- count books were properly arranged, and divid- ed into columns, containing every head, which experience in the business of farming may sug- gest, together with a broader column for gener- al observations. The accounts of gentlemen farmers, or of the bailiffs they employ cannot be too minute ; but in regard to common farmers, the great objects are to have them short and dis- tinct. It is proper to add that to record pecuniary transactions is not the only object to be attended to in the accounts of a farmer. It is necessary to have an annual account of the live slock, and of their value at the time; of the quantity of hay consumed ; of the grain in store, or in the stack yard ; and of the implements and other ar- ticles in which the capital is invested. An ac- count detailing the expense and return of each field, according to its productive contents is like- wise essential, without which it is impossible to calculate the advantages of different rotations ; the mo.st beneficial mode of managing the fawn ; or the improvements of which it is susceptible. FOR THE NEW E.\C1.A.VD FARJHER. Mr. Editor — I have for several years past, and more frequently of late on the margin of the Blue Hills and ill other retired spots, had the jjratification to observe a bird of most beautiful plumage, which, though coy and disposed to solitude, I sufficiently noted to find very distinctly described in the admirable work of our coun- tryman, " Wil?on's Ornitholog-y." This description 1 have abridged and now send you for publication. Tho' your paper is very properly and usefully devoted to agriculture — yet whatever gives a splendor to the scen- ery of the country and is not merely harmless, but use- ful to the cultivator of the soil — cannot be said to be out of place in your pages. It will be perceived that this showy strangr, which is induced more and more to visit us of late, mostly feeds upon the large winged and most noxious and injurious insects. If, however, this bird, so modest and sweetly attired, is not kindly received, we shall lose tho visits with which he grati- fies us. Why not place him With the Swallow, the Turtle Dove, and other favored harmless birds, who in fond reliance cluster about our houses ? But above all, let those who deal Oiit leaden death, consider th.^t as this sweet bird of both song and plumage affords no in- ducement as game or luxury for fond — whether it does not belong to their spirit and gallantry lo spare as they widh to be thought its admirers, imiocence and benxily. W. TUE SCARLET TA.\IGER. This is one of the most shewy birds which regularly visits us from the south in the spring of the year, dressed in the richest scarlet, and set off with the most jetty black. He rarely approaches the habitations of man, though he f-ometimes is seen in the orchards in search of food. The depth of the woods is his favorite abode, whore, amongst the thick foliage, his simple notes may be heard, which appear to proceed from a distance, thougii the bird should be near to you ; a faculty no doubt intended by the kind Author of nature to secure hiin from the danger to wliich his glowing color would expose him. His nest is sliglitly built on the horizontal branch of a tree ; the eggs are three, of a pale blue color, spotted with brown and purple ; they rarely raise more than one brood in a season, and leave us for the south in the last of August. His principal food is large wing- ed insects, such as wasps, hornets, and humble boe*, and fruit, particularly the whortleberry. which in their season form almost his whole fare. The male of this species is rather less than the robin ; its plumage a most brilliant scarlet, except the wings and tail, which are of a deep black ; the bill curved and of a yellow- ish color ; the legs and feet light blue. The lemale is green above, and yellow below; the wings and tail a brownish black, edged with green. The young birds, during their residence here, continue nearly of the same color with the female. Among.st all the birds which inhalnt our woods, there is none that strikes the eye with so much brilliancy, when seen among the green leaves with the light falling strongly on his plu- mage, as this does. His manners are modest and inoffensive. He commits no depredations on the property of the husbandman, but rather benefits him by the daily destruction of many noxious insects ; and when winter approaches he seeks in a distant country the sustenance which the severity of the season denies to his ndustry in this. He is a striking ornament to our rural scenery, and none of the meanest of its songsters. Such being the true traits of his character, we should always with pleasure give a safe re- ception and welcome to this beautiful inoffen- sive stranger in our orchards, groves and forests. THE FARMER. BOSTOjY .—SATURDAY, DEC. 14, 1822. ON LAYING DOWN LAND TO GRASS. It has been said by some writers that a fa,rmer ought never to sow grass seeds with any kind of grain, but in all cases to sow it by itself; which, it is alfirmed, will always do more than repay the loss that is sustained by the want of a crop of grain. Dr. Anderson and some other writers, however, condemn that practice, and observe, in substance, that if we were to have regard to no other circumstance but the grass crop alone, it will always be best to sow it with some kind of grain ; but when we consider likewise the loss that the farmer sustains for want of a crop of grain, the practice recom- mended of sowing grass seed alone must be looked on as highly pernicious. When grass seeds are sown with grain the latter grows quickly and prevents the growth of annual weeds, while it shades the tender plants of grass from the direct rays of the sun, and preserves the earth in a proper degree of moisture, so as to nurse the tender grass in the most kindly manner. The grain decaying after the grass is well rooted and can bear the heat and drought, the grass obtains as much air as is necessary. Though ground is not often too rich to bear a good crop of grass, yet, sometimes it mSy be too highly ma- nured to produce a good crop of grain. In this case, it may be prudent to forego the hope of a crop of grain, but not to omit sowing the seeds of some kind of grain with the grass seeds. Grain should, where the land is very rich, be sown thinly over the field, and will help to bring forward the grass in a kindly manner, and il the season proves dry, the farmer may thus obtain a very great crop. But, if the season is rainy, or the crop Irora any other cause too luxuriant, whenever the grain or the grass begin to lodge, so as to be in danger of rotting, it should all be cut immediately, and em- ployed as a green fodder for cattle or made into hay. The extraordinary quautity of fodder procured in this way, will more than indemnify for the price of the seed of the grain; as the farmer may thus procure two full crops of succulent fodder in one season. Autumnal sowing of grass seed is not approved of by good writers. The spring of the year is preferred ai less precarious, although fall sowing will sometimes answer. The mould of the ground, which is laid down trf grass, should be made very fine, as the seeds, being very small, may otherwise be covered too deep, by fal-, ling below, or be scorched by lying above great clods. Like other seeds, they require a due degree of moisturi; to cause them to vegetate, and therefore should not be left exposed to the rays of the sun without being cov- ered ; for unless rainy weather follows immediately af- ter sowing, many of the seeds will not vegetate. On, thi« account it is always well to harrow the ground im. mediately after sowing with a light close-toothed har- row, which should be kept for that purpose ; and some- times a gentle rolling is of use after that, especially upon light spongy ground. But no one circumstance so effectually ensures the vegetating of these small seeds as sowing them as soon as possible after the ground is ploughed, while the soil remains moist. It is always good economy to lay down rich, and not poor ground to grass. It is asserted in the Memoirs of the New York Board of Agriculture, that "grass seeds take remarkably well with buck wheat. Three pecks of buck wheat per acre may be sown, and the grass seeds harrowed ir with it ; the whole should be neatly rolled, and a smooth surface left ; as buck wheat sown at this sea- son will not go to seed to advantage, part of the crop, when in full blossom, should be cut daily, as green food for working horses and cattle." Rets' Cyclopedia, under the articles " Grass," auJ " Laying-down to Grass," gives very copious and mi- nute directions on this subject, of some of which we shall avail ourselves, and others are either well known to our practical agriculturists, not well adapted to our soil and climate, or in substance comprehended in what we have written. " It is better that the lands intend- ed for grass, especially when they are intended to be kept in a permanent state of sward, should incline, in seme measure, to moisture ; light, thin, dry descrip- tions of soil are better suited for the production of giain. The most usual period of putting in grass seeds has been the spring, at the time the grain crops are sown ; but where the land has been brought to a suit- able state of preparation, hy means of green and other fallow crops, the latter end of the summer, as about August, has been the more general time. In the for- mer case they are most commonly put in with the grain crops ; but in the latter without any other sorts of crops." On this subject there appears to have been a great diversity of opinion, but on the whole it seems to be the belief of the best agriculturists that grasi seeds answer almost equally well in either method. " Where the land is in a proper state of preparation and tillage, if sown with oats, they will be apt to be- come so luxuriant as to greatly injure, if not wholly destroy, the young grass-plants, by the closeness of their shade. In some cases, however, they succeed tohrably well with this sort of crop." " The practice of employing bush harrows is improper, as in that way the seeds are liable to be drawn into lumps." Sir John Sinclair observes that " the manner of sow- ing grass seed requires to be particularly attended to. .Machines have been invented for that purpose, which answer well, but they are unfortunately too expensive for the generality of farmers. It is a bad system to mix seeds of different plants before sowing thrin, in order to have the fewer casts. It is better to sow t ach sort separately, as the expense of going several times over the ground is nothing compared to the bmefit of having each sort equally distributed, The seeds of NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 159 never to be sown in a passes, heinj so light, ought ;indy day, except by machinery, an equal delivery eing a point of great consequence. Wet weather u-'ht likewise to be avoided, as the least degree of. oachinj is injurious. " When (he grain is carried off, the young crop o) rass should be but little fed during autumn ; but heav- y rolled in the following spring, in order to press the Dil home to the roots." Red Clover is more used in New England in laying ind down to grass, perhaps, than any other grass. The uthor of a valuable work, published not long since in ilbauy, entitled " A Treatise on Agriculture" directs en or twelve pounds of clover seed to be sown on an .ere, if the soil be rich, and double the quantity if it be loor. He condemns the practice of mixing the seeds f timothy (herd's grass of New England) and rye, rass, etc. with those of clover, " because these grasses leithcr rise nor ripen at the same time. Another prac- ice, equally bad, is that of sowing clover seed on win- er grain, before the earth has acquired a temperature avorable to vegetation, and when there can be no doubt )Ut that two thirds of the seed will perish." This wri- er is likewise of opinion ihat clover should not be pas- ured the first year, and observes, that " if the crowns )f young clover plants be nibbled, or otherwise wound- ■d, the roots die. Sheep and horses (both of which lite closely) should, therefore, be particularly excluded rom clover, unless intended for pasturage only." The best European cultivators allow from fifteen to wenty pounds of clover seed to an acre. By this mode >f sowing it grows less rank, lodges less, and is more jrofitable for making hay, or soiling. They likewise ecommend sowing tliis grass in the spring, even when he graiii with which it is to grow has been sowed the all preceding. They advise harrowing the clover in, tates, which will not call for augmented cares, but states that other causes exist which are highly inter- esting as well to the United States as to the whole civi- lized world. It gives a pleasing view of our commer- cial relations with France and Great Britain — States that his Imperial Majesty the Fjnperor of Russia on the question submitted to him by the United States and Great Bri-ain, concerning the construction of an article of the Treaty of Ghent, has been received, and that a convention has since been concluded between the parties, under the mediation of his Imperial Majes- ty, to prescribe the mode of carrying the article into effect, in conformity to the decision — It informs that a Territorial Government has been established hi Florida — That the fiscal operations of the year have been more successful than was anticipated at the commence- ment of the last session of Congress, and that there is now a surplus in the treasury, and a greater one is an- ticipated— It commends the organization of the l'nited States' Army — Speaks highly of the Military Academy — Remarks on piracy of the West Indies as of a recent date, and of the efforts of the U. States to suppress it — States that a serious malady has deprived us of many valuable citizens at Pensacola, and ch'cked the pro- gress of some of those arrangements v/bich are impor- tant to the territory — That the Lead Mines require an agent skilled in mineralogy — That the Cumberland i-oad needs repairs — That our manufactures have in- creased and are increasing — It gives a concise view of the aspeert exhibited by foreign nations, which shows that the U. S. as a member of the great community of I ^i,o was ir^ pursuit of wolves" The conTbat took place nations have rights to maintain, duties to perform, and 1 ;„ the ni^ht, and was very obstinate. dangers to encounter-The situation of Spain and the | Spontaneous Combustion occurred on the 29th ult. in Independent Governments south of the U. S. is con- ! ^j^^'^^^, ^.^^j „j.j^,^ j^^^^ Jamison, Baltimore. The c.sely adverted to- ■ he si uation of the Cree-ks is «,« occuired in a mass of coals, containing about five spoken Ot with teehno" '•^ iUrti enr-li ^ .-rtii.ifrw thnnlH .... - . . ' . » . ... *See Messrs. Wells i Lilly's edition tf DeaTWs JVcw England Farmer, article " Clover." Senna. — The Editor of the American Fanner states that he has received a small parcel of Senna seeds from Wm. Cattell, Esq. of Charleston, S. C. which has been cultivated and found to possess tb« Tirtues of U>( im- ported Senm. en ot with leehng, " that such a country should ^;^^^,,^^^ ,^„,bels, and though apparently extinguished have been overwhelmed, and so long hielilen as it were ;„„„„„,,;„,,.;».;„„:„ ,,„„^^„„f'„„,, „i - from the world under a gloomy despotism ;" but " a itrong hope is entertained that these people will recov several times, it again broke out, and was the cause of successive alarms. ! The Rochester, N. Y. papers inform that emigrants er their independence, and resume their natural sta-i , , ^ ,^ , , , ,. tions among the nations of the earth"— The effort which | ^^^ conveye^ on the Grand Canal, at the low rate o^f has been made in .Spain and Portugal to improve the condition of the people is mentioned as consoling to all benevolent minds, and the President observes, that " when we see that a civil war of the most frightful character rages from the Adriatic to the Black Sea ; that strong symptoms of war appear in other parts, proceeding from causes which, should it break out, may become general, and be of long duration ; that the war still continues between Spain and the Inde- pendent Governments, her late Provinces, in this hem- isphere ; and that it is likewise menaced between Por- tugal and Brazil, in consequence of the attempt of the latter to dismember itself from the former ; and that a system of piracy of great extent is maintained in the neighboring seas, which will require equal vigilance and decision to suppress it ; the reasons for sustaining the attitude which we now hold, and for pushing for- ward all our measures of defence with the utmost vig- or, appear to me to acquire new force." Matthew St. Clair Clark, of Pennsylvania, has been chosen Clerk of the House of Representatives. Mr. James Little, residing near Auburn, N. Y. was killed on the 16th ult. by his wagon overturning, and together with its contents falling on him. Counterf.-it $10 bills of the Phoenix Bank, N. Y. and on the Baak of Troy, are said to be in circulation. one cent a mile, and in proportion for furniture and ef- fects. We have been informed from a source that leaves us no reason to doubt the fact, that the society of Shakers at Canterbury in this state, have, within three weeks, sold TF.s barrels of Cider in Boston, for which they re- ceived ONE HPNDRED DOLLARS in Cash. Good com- mon cider has been selling in this town for one dollar a barrel. Such is the difference between good, and very good ! — Portsmouth Journal. A cow may now be seen at Harrisburg (for 12 1-2 cents) upwards of 16 hands high, and supposed to weigk 1600 lbs. She was raised in Columbia County. — Penn. Correspondent. An English horse, called Childers is said to have been the swiftest ever known, and has been known to have run ne ar a mile in a minute. He cleared the course in New Market, which is only 400 yards short of four mill s in 6 minutes and 40 seconds ; running at the rate of82 1-2 feet in a second. Eclipse is said to surpast him in strength, and to be but little inferior in swift- ness. DIED— In Medford, Thursday morning. Rev. David Osgood, D. D. aged 75. In this city, Isaac lUnd, M,D. A. A. S. aged 80. 160 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. HEALTH. The subject of my song is }Iealth, A good superior far towtalth. Can the miud distrust its worth ? Consult the monarchs of the earth : Imperial czars, and sultanj, own No »em so bright that docks their throne ; Each for this pearl his crown would quit, And turn a rustic, or a cit. Mark, tho' the blessing's lost with case. 'Tis not recover'd when you please. Say not that gruels shall avail ; For salutary gruels fail : Say not, Apollo's sons succeed ; Apollo's son is Egypt's* reed. How fruitless the physician's skill. How vain the pestilential pill, The marble monuments proclaim ; The humbler turf confirms the «ame ; Prevention is the better cure ; *a says the proverb, and 'tis sure. AV'ould you extend your narrow span, And make the most of life you can ; Would you, when med'cines cannot save. Descend with ease into Uie grave Calmly retire, like evening light, And cheerful bid the world good night ? Let Ttmp'rance constantly preside ; Our best physician, friend, and guide .' Would you to wisdom make pretence, Proud to be thought a man of sense .' Let Temp'rance (always friend to fame) With steady hand direct your aim ; Or, like an archer in the dark. Your random shaft will miss the mark : For they who slight her golden rules. In wisdom's volume stand for fools. *In allusion lo 2 K'ings, xviii. 21. FOR THE NEW ENGLAND FARMER. There is a propensity existing in the minds of the most of mankind to resist the claims of those who appear to think that they deserve dis- tinction, and profess to be candidates for renown. The best way therefore, to win applause is not to court it. Persevere in the path of rectitude, and if Fame follows you, very well, but never run after it. Money laid out for the purpose of obtaining a high standing in society, or in other words for (he sake of out-dashing anrl out-shining one's neighbors is generally thrown away. We live in an age, when splendid furniture, glittering equipage, and tine buildings arc groivn too com- mon to attract much notice from spectators. There is no life more fatiguing and perplex- ing than that of the subordinate votaries of (ash- ion, who attempt to be siyliA by dint of extrava- gant expenditure, and living beyond their in- come. Splendid indigence, linery and want, ex- pensive but temporary shifts to su[iport the ap- pearance of plenty, when poverty oppresses and debt menaces arc inlinitely more distressing than open and avowed poverty. A life well employed is an agreeable as well as an useful life ; but " the pains and penalties of idlenes.s" make existence a burden, which, in some instances has been found so insupportable that (he wretched sufferer has sought refuge in suicide. A man who has the appearance of order and economy in his family, who does not permit his sons to " hoe corn in silk breeches," nor to roll logs in ruffled shirts, nor to wear their best clothes on common occasions, nor sutler his daughters to make butter and cheese in chintzes and mus- lins, nor sweep the kitchen in silks and laces, will sooner be trusted and stand higher in the estimation of all sensible people than any other man of equal property, who sets up for gentili- ty, with a family of smart sons and dashing daughters, the beaus and belles of the neighbor- hood, the lormer calculating to live on their wiU, and the latter expecting to be maintained by their beauty, and all but worshipped for their accomplisliments. A more costly dress than the occasion requires, or the circumstances and station of the wearer can justify, are proofs not only of the extrava- gance, but of the vulgarity of the wearer. Many a would be fine lady and fine gentleman have thus made themselves ridiculous by the very means they made use of to attract admiration. — But parents, should, generally, permit their children (o dress in a style somewhat similar to that of the young persons with whom they com- monly associate ; otherwise they will probably be ridiculed by their companions, which will make them feel undue inferiority, inspire them with envy, and spoil their dispositions — Not that their clothes should be equally expensive, but their general appearance should be similar. No man can be called great, merely in con- sequence of the station in which he is placed in society. The highest honors are but the ped- estal, and merit is the statue erected upon it. There is nothing more provoking than the condolence of a pretended friend, who appears to sympathize with you in your calamity, when you have reason to believe that in his heart he exults over your misfortunes. a Addison says that a dog has been the compan- ion of man for more than 6000 years, and has learned of him only one of his vices — that is to worry his species, when he finds them in dis- tress. Tie a tin canister to a dog's tail, and ano- ther will fall upon him — put a man in prison for , , ... ,-,,.,- debt, and another will lodge a detainer against T"*^ gunpowder will e.r;jWe ; and, if this mixture him. This propensity to afflict the afflicted has' '"^T^ "sed merely as a train of communication given rise to the vulgar, but we fear correct ad-i'" ^^^ powder withm the stone, what a national age " When a man is going down hill every one I saving would it be in works earned on upon an gives him a kick." O.V THE USE OF LIME. Mixed with Gimpo-ssdcr, in rending rocks anc stones. ^ By H. D. Griffith, Esquire., of Cacrhm near Conway, A'orih M^ates. From the letters and papers of the Bath and West o- England Society. Having been for .some time in (he habit of pe- rusing your interesting papers on agriculture and other subjects, I am induced to lay before the society a circumstance, which, though per- haps familiarly known to them, might, If more generally divulged through the channel of their ' publications, be of infinite advantage to the pub lie. In clearing my lands of the heaps of stone with which this country every where abounds, I found the quantity of gunpowder used in the operation to amount to a considerable sum at the end oi F the year; and as the price of this article has beea increasing of late to an enormous amount, I had '' recourse (o an expedient, by which the expense of it has been materially diminished. 1 weighed out two pounds of gunpowder, and one pound of quick lime, well dried and pulver- ized; which, after having been thoroughly mix- ed with each other, I delivered it to the blaster, with directions to apply it, in similar quantities as he would have done the gunpowder by itself. I then selected six of the hardest granites I could find for the experiment; and the effects of the explosion where precisely the same as if gun- powder alone had been used. It now occurred to me, that this might be fallacious, and that a smaller proportion of gunpowder would produce the same efl'ect as a larger; I accordingly order- ed the man to bore holes in a similar number of stones, of the same texture and size with the former, and to put in a less quantity of gunpow- der, by one third, than he would have done if :* had been left to his own management. Tii- stones were separated by the shock; but th difference in the effect was manifest to ever person in the field ; those with the mixture o lime and gunpowder having been much more effectually broken and shattered than the other- .\fter the success of this experiment, 1 have constantly adhered to the practice ; and am so satisfied of its utility, that 1 ivish to see it more generally adopted. One thing is certain, that a mixture composed of equal parts of quick-lime at The man who is the most careful in examin- ing facts, and the most accurate in authentica ting them, will, in general, form the most cor- rect conclusions ; and him we call judicious. He who is the quickest in comparing and com- bining those which present themselves to him. and the most rapid in deducing conclusions is said to have talents. These two faculties are bv no means necessarily conjoined ; and thus it h.appens that men of talents are not always men of solid understanding. The passion of De Luc, the natural philosopher, for iniuic, was so predonjinant i.i his latter days, that ;i piano was placed by his bed side, on which his daugh- ter playtd great part of the day. The evening of his death, seeiiij,- her father ready to sink into a slumber, she asked him, " .Shall I play any more ?" "• Keep playing," said he, " keep playing." He alcpt— but awoke uo more. extensive scale, such as the numerous quarries and mine works of this kingdom ! Swiftness of Men. — Men who are exercised in running outstrip horses, or at least hold their speed for a longer continuance ; in a journey too, a man will walk down a horse ; and after they have both continued to proceed for sever- al days, the horse will be quite tired, and the man as fresh as in the beginning. The king's messengers of Ispahan who are runners by pro- fession, go 108 miles in 14 houre. — Hottentots outstrip lions in the chase, and sav::ges who hunt the elk, tire down and take it, are said to have performed a journey of three thousand and six hundred miles in lets thaji six ■weeks. Coles, in his excellent history of plants, notices tho virtues of lu mp thus laconically : " By this cordage ships an guided, bell-, are ruflg^, beds areqcordcd, and vogues are kept in awe." • ublibhed every Saturday, by THOMAS W. SHEPARD, Rogers" Cuildliig, ConjfLss Street, Eofton ; at ^iyM per ann. in p.dvann-. or JS.fX) at the c o.oe of the yt-at Vol. I. BOSTON, SATURDAY, DECEMBER 21, 1822. No. 21. NEW ENGLAND FARMER. From the National JEgif. MINERALOGICAL No. V. That Science which renders no assistance to he industry of man, is unworthy of its associa- ion with the circle of those which multiply the nenns of human happiness, and that art which esls not on the broad foundation of scientific ■ rinciple can never approach the limit of perfec- iou. Constant practice, continued efforts, nnin- errupted toil will work wonders. They give 0 llieir products, a polish, a neatness and an ele- jance which no other method can supply. But labit is always servile. It follows some esam- )le, it copies from some prototype, it pursues aithority. Without the boldness of originality, r the darina^ of itivention, it seldom strikes out or itself the path of improvement. The artist nay be taught to unite the parts of complicated nachinery, but his manual dexterity can never n.able him to bring new powers into action, or ivail himself of new mechanical agents. When he precepts of the master fail him, he is with- lut a guide and at a stand. An acquaintance vith nature and its laws, added to skill in imita- ion, would enable him to advance with ccrtain- y; and with the inducements to experiment, vould give the assurances of success. From his connexion between the arts and sciences this autual interchange of support, the advantage if theory is easily deduced. Not that false theor}'. »hich is the visionary fabric of the imagination, •ut the more substantial structure erected upon he ficm basis of fact and observations. Insula ed particulars divide and distract attention when xisting separately; when collected undrr gen- ral head?,thoy form land marks to determine the irogress already made, and to point out the curse ill which to advance. He who records he experience of others, and goes through the irocess of generalizing, contributes more to the mprovement of the earth, than one who holds he plough, or wields the sickle, without know- ng a reason for his operations. Agriculture will not assume the rank to which it is so just- y entitled, at the head of other professions, till t shall lean more upon science, and become less dependant upon imitation and precedent. In an age when the acquisition of wealth is made the end of living, and profit adopted as the standard of utility, when the question what oenefit is this, meets us at every step, it is nec- essary, in recommendation of any pursuit, to iemonstrate its application to the common pur- poses of life. That this should be so, is but rea- ionable. Society has a claim upon all its mem- bers, to recompense the protection and the se- curity which it extends. The existence which is spent in listless inactivity, is like the waveless calm of waters when no winds ruffle the surface. The expanse is clear and beautiful, but the sails of Commerce are not swelled, and the vessel is not wafted to the harbor. Selfishness may claim indulgence in following those objects which have solitary gratification in view, but men more liberal, will contribute to the good of others. Much satisfaction there may be in tracing the time worn letters of some mouldering coin, and taking ingenuity to supply those which the eye cannot discover, but there is more pleasure in natching the changes in the retort or the cruci- ble, with the intention of aiding the cultivator of the earth, and lightening the burden of labor by the application of science. lie that employs whole years in decyphering an inscription which perhaps has no local habitation but in his own fancy, and no name other than that his entliu- siasm beslows, is less valuable in society than the mineralogist who pores upon the angles ol' a cryst.il or contemplates the structure of rocks, and examines the formation of the globe, tliat he may communirato the secret of its treasures or unfold tiiG nature of its soils. Yet Mineralogy has much tliat can interest him, who seeks only the em[doyment of the hoiirs of leisure. The beauty, tiie richness and the extent of its objects cannot be exceeded by the subjects of any other department of science. The flowers which open in the beams of morn- ing, fade in the noon day heat. The Oak, which outlives whole generations falls and decays. But the rocks, the hills, the mountains endure. The footsteps of Men, were printed upon them long before we had our existence, and they will be traced there long after we are gone to our silent homes. Standing as they do, unmoved by the storms of ages, while the finest monuments of art are crushed to the dust, they present to the observer, a page of that great volume, where there is grandeur of causes, sublimity in effects, and harmonious order. It is not for the gratifi- cation of that indolence which seeks relief from tlie burden of existence in the chase of frivoli- ties, that the scholar interests himself in such studies. In following his own inclinations, he ailds to the existing stock of knowledge, and wipes the sweat from the brow of toil. The lover of nature finds new sources of instruction and amusement at every step. Other branches of inquiry may render him wiser, but this makes him both wiser and better. Restraining the violence of passion it draws closer the ties which bind him to his fellow men, and promotes indi- vidual happiness by increasing the general good. To those who cherish the desire of acquiring reputation, Blineralogy holds forth numerous al- lurements. From whatever source that feeling derives its origin, which forces us to revolt at the idea of being lost in the darkness of oblivion, to be as though xvt had never been, it is an honorable sentiment. To identity our exist- ence with the monument which marks the spot where our remains shall rest, to be read only in inscriptions and to live only in name, shows but a poor conception of the value of fame. To subsi-st in lasting memorials, to survive in mem- ory of the benefits conferred, is a laudable am- bition. Ours is a countr}-, where all is new, where discovery has not yet explored the ex- tensive regions of its territory, and gathered up all that was worthy of notice. Placed as it were on the verge of the wilderness, at that point where cultivation ends, and the forest be- gins, the fair fields that lay behind us, show the improvement of which those which are yet un- subdued are capable. The adventurer whom fortune has favored with the opportunities and advantages requisite for such occupations ha* only to go i'orwanl and he will prosper. That the strong features of natural characler, depend upon the outlines of geological struc- ture, is true to a certain extent. The discussion of the influences of temperature, scenery, or climate, upon the mind, is the province of the metapliysic.Tl. No one who has felt the warmth of spring succeeding the cold of winter, will deny that there is much efiicacy in such means. Though genius may rise superiour to the de- pression of a foggy almosphcic, yet its highest upward aspirations have been where the heav- ens are faire-st, and the face of nature most love- Iv. In the genial regions of the South, paint- ing and sculpture have arrived nearer to perfec- tion, and poetry which is the representative of the feelings of' a people, has breathed in softer numbers than in tiie ruder districts of the Nortli. In those wild countries its notes have had mon; boldness and orginality, and have given expres- sion to those high toned sentiments and patriotic feelings so congenial to the land of forests, rocks and precipices. It is not unphilosophic-il to ascribe these differences to the effects of varied circumstances in the geographical situation or the surface of a land. If observation confirm the position, that regions like Switzerland and America, whose mountains lift themselves to vast elevations above the sea, are those places where independence of thought and action ex- ist, we have only to ascertain whether the lof- ty ridges of a primitive section, rise into abrupt and craggy sunirails, or whether the surface is diversified hy tlic gentle swellings and undula- tions of' a less marked formation, to determine whether p nation possess the hardy s])irit of freedom or are sunk in the degradation of slave- rv. Without venturing the extravagant length oV asserting that Q,uartz or Feldspar, or any oth- er mineral are esential to human prosperity, or that genius and virtue must be circumscribed by the boundries of Limestone or Granite, ue niay safely venture to say that the prominent charactcristicks of a people may depend upon the structuie of the country they inhabit. A single remark more upon the satisfaction resulting from the study to which we have ad- verted, and we have done. He who has accus- tomed himself to minute observations on the various products of the earth, if he does not possess himself of wealth, yet opens numerous stores of amusement. In every rock he recog- nizes the rugged face of an old acquaintance, in every stone beneath his feet he renews his inti- macy with a friend. To select where all is beautiful, to give a decisive preference where all is inviting, is injustice. Renouncing that limited prejudice, which seeks to exalt a favor- ite, by disparaging every other object, he who contemplates nature will delight to survey all her works. He will find " tongues in Irses, books in the running; brooks, SeimoDs iu itones, and good in every thing." Selfishness is the hydra we should be per- petually combating; lor the monster has so much vitality, that new heads spring up as fast as the old ones are cut off. 162 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. FACTS AND 0ESER.VAT10XS RELATING TO AGRICULTURE & DOMESTIC ECONOMY. Fon THE NEW ENGLAND FARMER. Extracts from an Address delivered before the Western Society of Middlesex HusbaadmeD, by Rev. Wilkes Alkn, A. M. " It was the complaint of a learned investig-a- tor of the works and ways of nature, and of an experimental farmer before the formation of any agricultural society in America, that thougli men of business, ingenuity, and observation, might find out things valuable and useful, yet for want of some proper method to communi- cate them, they would die with the discoverers, and be lost to mankind.* " By association and a free interchange of thoughts, the discoveries and improvements of one become the common property of many. By example and conversation the mind receives a powerful impulse to action. It shakes otf its indolence, and puts forth now efforts to equal a superior, or rival an equal. It seizes upon new tracks of thought, and pursues them to some new and important discovery. By social inter- <;omsc, knowledge is ditl'used, emulation inspir- ed, the attention fixed on new objects, and throwing attainments are secured. Associations of men of the same occupation and employment have been vastly beneficial to one ai uther in various ways. But the useful tendency and lieneficial influence of associations for specific objects will not, 1 trust, be disputed in this so- ciety-making age." " The beneficial influence of agricultural so- cieties has been experienced in breaking up long established associations, unfriendly to im- provement. Within the memory of many now living, each successive generation walked in the steps of the preceding. The same field was planted in the same manner for a century. Anv deviation from ancient usage was deemed disrespectful to the memory of the dead. Preju- dice and error were hereditary, till science with her torch led on to new discoveries, and experi- ence elucidated and enforced the truth and im- portance of her decisions." " The advantages of agricultural associations are not confined to annual exhibitions and shows and to the collection and distribution of informa- tion. " Their purposes terminate not in in- structing in new courses of husbandry, but in introducing neiv principles of action." By cal- ling the works and improvements of the retired and unknown farmer into public notice, you place him in some respects on an equality with men of other [)rofession=, who are const;intly moving in a public sphere, and acting in view of the multitude of spectators. You at once ex- cite in his breast a strong desire to excel in hi- art by making him renli/.e. that his art or pro- fession is an object of puldic attention, and a means of obtaining celebrity. You at once touch the main spring of action, by pointing out a road to fame, honor, and emolument, and pla- cing the obscure agriculturist in the high way to that distinction, which the physician, the lawyer, and the divine, enjoys by excellence in his profession. The ultimate object of agricul- tural societies is to give new strength to the common spring of action, ambition to excel in the art or profession of a farmer." " The potntoe was not known in Europe in Queen Elizabeth's day, and her sallads were imported from Flanders."* In this country, near- ly a century clasped before the kind and salu- brious properties of the potatoe were known, and its important uses discovered. This great benefactor of mankind wa% long viewed with a jealous eye, and taken into the stomach with as much caution as the most nauseating medi- cine of the physician. But whence this change in public feeling, sentiment, and practice ? It is unquestionably owing to a few enlightened individuals forming themselves into companies, setting out on enterprises of discovery tor the good of mankind. As in the sea, wave impels wave to the shore — so in society, man acts upon man. His example, the benefit resulting from his enterprise, the public honor with which it is crowned, all conspire to excite in those around him a noble emulation. The flame of emulation catches from breast to breast, as the electric flash passes through contiguous bodies, till the whole community feels the impulse first given by a single individual." " Gentlemen, the association you have formed and are attempting to found on a rock, a fund, which is to give vital animation to you and all around you, is an institution of great importance to the general interest and prosperity of the country, and especially to those within the sphere of its influence. To promote and se- cure the wide and lasting benefits, which, it is confidently believed, may result from it, every member must feel himself of vital importance, and act as though its whole prosperity depen- ded on his exertions. Never lose sight of the object, which is improvement in domestic manu- factures, and every branch of field husbandry. Need 1 remind you of the immense field open for your exertions? Need I remind you, that the walls, which your forefiithers built, are fal- len down, the orchards they reared up, decay- ed, and the pastures they cleared, grown over with thorns and briers? Need 1 echo in your ears a truth, which every where meets the traveller's eye, that there are yet vast tracts of unproductive land, capable of the highest im- provement, and wanting nothing but the plough, the hoe, and the hod, to make them just what the possessors would have them to be, fruitful fields, and well cultivated gardens? Diminish the quantity and increase the good quality ot youi lands, and you will have the means of sup- porting handsomely two families, where one now scarcely obtains a comfortable living. 1 am borne out to the lull in this assertion by the experiments of many practical farmers. — Particularly by those of Mr. Upton, Superin- tendent of the alms-house farm in Salem."f " You begin your labors. Gentlemen of this Society, at an age, and under circum-^tances, which promise all the most sanguine can ex- pect. A new agricultural era has commenced. Men of learning, talents, and influence are en- listed in the cause ; and the public attention, released from the labours, cares, and ravages of vvar, is directed to the interests of agriculture. Your art and profession as husbandmen are ri- sing to their native rank and dignity ; and to accelerate their progress you must diffuse use- ful knowledge, and improve the education of those destined to agricultural pursuits. Knowl- edge and virtue adorn and dignify the humat character. They add respectability and digni- ty to bodies politic as well as to individuals."* * PwCT. Dr .laro-l Eliot, KiUing;iTNth, Ccc 1T4'? •J. Lo-well's Address, 1818. ■I See PZa-5. Agricultural Repository, No. 3, Vol. 5. *It is a remark applied by a late -writer, to France, but equally applicable, it is believed, to America, ''thai agrii uitun- till of late has been considered a degiadi employment." The rtason why it has been so consid- ered -will be found in the -want of education, know- ledgi-, and intellectual improvement among that clas; ofpiople, -who exercise this art. Increase the mora and lit! rary attainment? of the great body of agricul- turists, and you exalt their character and profession Too loiiff has the error existed, that a classical or aca dimic education is lost upon those, -p.-ho arc designee for agricultural pursuits. Fatal to the usefulness and virtue, to the hopes and prospects of many young mei of more than ordinary education, has been the idea, that the labors of the field or the methaiiit's shop arf beneath tlieir dignity ; that knowledge raises men above, and disqualifies them for the necessary and more humble, yet useful employments of life. To young men of these feelings and sentiments, we would recom mend the careful perusal of the following lines of the poet. A little learning is a dangerous thing ; Drink deep or taste not the Pierian spring ; There, shallow draughts intoxicate the brain, But drinking largely sobers us again. This hint, it is hoped, will be sufficient to induce the more opulent farmers of our country to raise the stand- ard of what is commonly called a good education fot farmers' sons, destined to follow the profi ssion of theii fathers. HO^V TO DISTINCriSH CATTLE WmCH HAVE A TOO- PENSITY TO FATTE.N'. Mr. CuUey, a famous English breeder, ha? given the following directions relative to thie subject. " We undoubtedly first judge by the sight, which being pleased we bring the sense of feeling to its assistance ; and if this also ap- proves, we then conclude that the animal suiti our purpose, or is answerable to the idea wc have formed of it. A nice or good judge ol cattle or sheep with a slight touch of the fin- gers upon the fatting points of the animal, viz the hips, rump, ribs, flank, breast, twist, should- er-score, &1C. will know immediately whether it will make fat or not, and in which part it will be the fattest. I have often wished to convey in language that idea or sensation we acquire by the touch or feel of our fingers, which en- ables us to form a judgment when we arc hand- ling an animal intended to be fitted — but I have as often found myself unable to fulfil that wish. It is very easy to know where an animal is fat- test which is already made fat, because wc can evidently feel a substance or quantity of fat up- on all those parts which are denominated the fatting points ; but the difficulty is to explaia how we know or distinguish animals in a lean state, which will make fat, and which will not, or rather which will make fat in such points or parts, and not in others ; when a person of judg- ment (i« /^raclicf) can tell as it were instanta- neously : 1 say in prac/ice, because I believe the best judges out of practice are not able to judge with precision, at least I am not. We say this beast touches nicely upon the ribs, hips, &c. be- cause we find a mellow, pleasant feel on those parts ; but we do not say soft ; because there are some of the same sort of animals which have a soft loose handle, of which we do not approve, because though sof't and loose, they have not the mellow feel above mentioned : for though they both handle loose and soft, yet we know that one will easily become fat, and that the NEW ENGLAND FARiMEK. 163 )ther will not ; and in this lies the difficulty of he explanation ; we clearly find a particular kindliness or pleasantness in the teel of the one much superior to the other, by which we learn that the one will make fat, and the other not so fat ; and in this a person of judgment, and in nmctice, is very seldom mistaken. 1 shall only make one more remark, which is, that though one animal will make remarkably fat, and the other will scarcely improve at all, with the same keeping; yet between these extremes are num- berless gradations, which the complete judge can distinguish with wonderful precision." Sir John Sinclair observes, that '^ Handling cannot easily be defined, and can only be learnt bv experience. The skin and liesh of cattle, when handled, should feel soft to the touch, somewhat resembling that of a mole, but with a little more resistance to the tiiiger. A sot't and mellow skin mast be more pliable, and more easily stretched out to recover any extraordina- ry quantity of fat and muscle, than a thick and tough one. The rigid-skinned animal, must, therefore, always be most diflicult to fatten. In a good sheep, the skin is not only soft and mel- low, but in some degree elastic. Neither cat- tle nor sheep can be reckoned good, whatever (heir shapes may be, unless they are first rate handlers." DIRF.CTIONS FOR BF.f OVERING DROWNTD PERSONS. The following directions have been published by the Dublin Humane Society : — " What thou doest, do quickly^ 1. Convey the body carefully, with the head a Ulde raised to the nearest convenient house. 2. Strip and dry the body ; clean the mouth and nostrils. From tlie New York American. Bulter — Russian mode of Making — .? .Yea; Dis- coverij. Sir— Observing in your paper last evening, a communication from Mr. Hugh Hartshorn* to .1. S. Skinner, Esq. on the subject of making I.uttcr in Winter, 1 beg leave to furnish a few particu- lars on that subject, as practised in Russia, since the year 181G, and which, may perhaps, be of some service to those who may he induced to make the experiment, either in Summer or Win- ter. Being in that country in the year 1817, I was informed by a Russian Nobleman that the proprietor of an extensive estate (also a Noble- man of high rank) had discovered a new mode of making Butter, and had received letters pa- tent from the Emperor as a reward for the dis- covery, and which ho stated as being at thai time in full and successful operation. The pro- cess consisted in boiling (or rather that species of boiling called simmering) the milk for the space of fifteen minutes in its sweet state — oli- serving at the same time not to use sufficient heat to burn the milk; it is then churned in the usual manner. He also stated that no difficulty ever occurred in procuring Butter immediately, and of a quality far superior to that made from milk which had undergone vinous fermentation ; and that, in addition to its superior flavour, it would preserve its qualifies much longer than that made in the ordinary mode ; that the addi- tional advantages were, that the milk, being left sweet, is possessed of almost the same value for ordinary purposes, and by some was considered more healthy, as they supposed the boiling or scalding to destroy whatever animalcule it may have contained. If the above process should upon experiment prove of suflicient imjiortance, so as to bring it into general use, particular!}' in the winter, if 3. An adult lay the body on a bed or blanket Ly^^i J .j^^ ^^ ^^ ,j,g advantage ofthose who near the tire or in a warm chamber ; if in the summer, expose it to the sun. 4. A child ; place it between two persons in a warm bed. 5. Kub the body gently with ^annc/, sprink- led with spirits. 6. Restore breathing by introducing the pipe of a bellows (where the apparatus cannot be im- mediately procured) into one nostril, keeping the fthcr and the mouth closed, gently inflate the lungs, alternately compress the breast, and theji let the mouth and nostrils free. 7. .■^pply warm bricks to the soles of the feet, and warm spirits to the palms of the hands, and the pit of the stomach. 8. Persist in these means for three hours at least, or until life be restored. Cautions. — 1. Never to be held up by the heels. 2. Not to be rolled on casks, or other rough usages. 3. Not to allow into the room more than sis persons. 4. Not to rub the body with salt. General Observations. — On signs of returning life, and if swallowing be returned, a small quantity (ot'ten repeated) of warm wine and wa- ter, or diluted spirits, should be given ; the pa- tient put into a warm bed, and if disposed put to sleep. Electricity and bleeding are never to be em- ployed, unless by the direction of a medical gen- tleman. may practice it to have their milk scalded in ves- sels calculated to stand in the kettle or boiler, by which mode the danger of burning the milk would be avoided, for it is ascertained that milk only burns on the edges of it surface, or where it comes in contact with the sides of the vessel in which it is heated, which can never happen in double kettles, or where one is placed within the other. A SUBSCRIBER December 5. during four years, and minute iiive-tigatnni ol' (he practices of the best graziers, (with whom 1 have much to do) that such state of the tail is proof of tendency to " hollow horn." I mean that the " tail rot," as it i» called by Downing, the Eng- lish Cow Leech, is a symptomatic disease indi- cative of some affection of the spine, whicli generally produces a more fatal malady, accnin- panicd by liollowness of (he horns. — .\ small quantity of white miicus, or .'orum like sluli, exudes generally from the Jncisicn. In New F.nglanil, tlicy all cut off flic tails. — I cut off the long hair, at the ends, but never re- move any portion oftbelionc, although I do not hesitate at pushing a sharp knife through the soft parts of half a dozen calves or cows tails in a morning. 1 have seen an animal on her side, wiiich, within half an hour, was led to rise and after eat, merely by cutting oil three inches of the tail. Some of the best Surgeons to whom I have .spoken, think that my notions are perf'cct- Iv consistent with the received opinion of the connection between the spine and tail of a quad- ruped. The remarks of some of the old farm- ers of this county, excited my ridicule on this point, at first. They go so far as to assert, that the tail is injured by treading on its end when the animal makes an effort so rise — the most skilful farmers, and the most celebrated in this neighborhood, among us fellows who do not faint at smells, cut off the hair for the reason I have given. I ivould be glad to welcome Mr. C******* here. The finest grazing land in the Atlantic States, / think is the alluvion on the West Bank of the River Delaware. And the best Grazing Farms could be purchased on its margin, at ve- ry moderate prices. I have a letter from Massachusetts, saying that Ccelebs had 62 cows at glO each. Ointmait for the Mange. — Hogs lard, 2 lbs. ; sbirit of turpentine, half a pmt ; oil of vitriol, 2 ounces, to be well mixevitbin a few year* past. Aiid there are still some among us, 1 fear, who, in their in- fatuated reliance upon the innate energies (as i( would appear) of their art, or on some other yet more incomprehensible dependence, rest, with folded arms, and drawn as it were within their own shell, without everspendmga thought, mov- ing a finger, or bestowing a cent towards the improvement of this tirst and best of all occupa- tions. Can they imagine it is all-sulficient to take care of itself, single-handed, and without any concert or co-operation among those who pursue it ? Is it so unlike all other avocations and professions in life, that the insulated powers of each individual, engaged in it, will suHice of themselves to bring it to perfection ? No, my friends, there cannot be a more absurd, nor per- nicious notion, than the belief, that each man, for himselt', can study and practice any, or all the branches of husbandry, with equal advantage, in seclusion from his agricultural brethren, as if he frequently mixed with them,and sought to realize all the benefits of their experience, as well as of his own. If such belief be not sheer madness, it is, at least, the pitiable folly of those who arc far too wise in their own conceit, cither to re- ceive, or impart knowledge. As well might wo expect, that the plants which are reared for hu- naan sustenance, would yield their fruit without human labor ; or that the aggregate products of human industry, exercised in all the infinitely diversified pursuits of life, would be found spon- taneous in their present abundance, as that the theory and practice of agriculture can be brought 10 perfection, or made even to approximate, in any very profitable degree, towards it, unless her sons can be prevailed upon to act more as a body, movmg in harmonious concert — at least, in regard to their great leading interests. In other word?, they should serk opportunities of frequently meeting together ; of coni'erring. consulting, and combining for the general good ; of interchanging the results of individual experi- ence and observation ; of encouraging by joint, but voluntary contributions, such exhibitions as we are now endeavoring to establish, with a view to elicit all that is known among us, in re- gard to the improvement of stock, of agricultu- ral implements, of the various processes by which the soil itself can be best cultivated, and most effectually fertilized — and, in short, of do- ing every thing in their power, to elevate, to honour, and to perfect the profession to which they are devoted. With siich views and objects, always present to our minds, were we zealously to pursue such a plan, for a few years, anil ex- ert, for its promotion, all the agricultural talent and information among us ; instead of the afflic- ting prospect of deserted habitations, falling into ruins — of fields, once under culture, but now barren, desolate, and rarely trodden by the foot of either man or beast; instead of frequently having to undergo the pangs of separation from our dearest friends and connexions, compelled to seek, in distant regions, that sujiport which our exhausted soil can no longeryield, we should behold the heart-cheering, delightful spectacle of a moral, industrious, well informed, and hap- py population, gradually, but continually in- creasing, in a ratio proportioned to the augment- ed fertility of our lands, and the consequent ex- pansion and multiplication of our agricultural resources. We should no longer witness the rapid depopulation of sever.il of the good old United States from the operation of that ever restless, erratic spirit, the general tendency of which is, to convert civilized man into a kiml of wandering Arab, a stranger to all the endearing associations, connected with the words " native home ;" always in search of new pastures for his herds, new forests to subdue, and new fields to wear out, as fast as the process of continually exhausting culture can destroy them. For my own part, I have always been strongly inclined to doubt our moral right to pursue such a course; for the same general law, acknowledged by all rational men, which forbids us to abuse any of the gifts of our beneficent Creator, and which we willingly obey, in taking special good care of the constitution of our bodies, ought to lead us, I think, also to take care of the constitution of our soil, as an essential means of attaining the first object. A contrary course of conduct, if pursued by all the nations of Ihe eartli, would evidently have rendered the whole habitable globe itself, in the course of a lew centuries, inadequate to the support of its inhabitants. To improve our agriculture, therefore, is a moral duly, as well as a rational, agreeable and profit- able occupation. In a political point of view, there is nothing in this world, the contempla- tion of which, can give higher animation to the hopes of the true Statesman, and swell the bo- som of the genuine patriot with more pleasing anticipations of his country's prosperity and hap- piness, than the prospect of^ realizing such a state of society, as an agricultural people may form and maintain, if they will only avail them- selves of all the means which are naturally con- nected with, and grow out of their pursuits, for the promotion of knowledge and virtue ; for the security and beneficent use of property ; and for the permanent enjoyment of the highest degree of earthly felicity, which social man is capable of attaining. — This, my Iricnds, is no romantic vision ; no picture, the coloring of which is bor- rowed from an imagination, loo sanguine, in re- gard to what may be done, provided only propel means are used, and assiduously applied, ll would occupy more of our time than we can no' spare, to attempt even a brief enumeration otf' the-ifi means. Let it suffice for the present, thai I earnestly entreat you to turn your attention of- tener to the objects at wliich 1 have merelj '>' hinted. There is nothing can afford us amplei *' scope for improving rellection, nor any thin" in which our temporal interests arc more deep- ly concerned. Although the foregoing spccnlations may not appear to have any immediate connexion with the purposes of our present meeting, they have been suggested by it ; and as long as I have the honor to be connected with this society, 1 shall ever deem it my duty, to press similar topicat upon the attention of its members, on every suit- able occasion. If they serve no other end, they may aid in illustrating the relative importance of the agricultural portion of our people, as a component, and most material part of our great body politic ; in awakening sutTicient vig- ilance, to guard against encroachment on their rights; and in rendering them more sensitive of the too frequent attempts to legislate them into mere "hewers of wood and drawers of water."' .Vol ihat I mean to charge the authors of these acts with designing such an effect; but if it be really produced, the purity of their motives >"■ would be but a poor alleviation of the evil. Let me now solicit your attention, for a few minutes, to the particular objects of our present meeting; and to an endeavor, brietly to point out some of the many advantages resulting I'rom such exhibitions; as well as lo suggest ^a tew hints, in relation to the feelings and views of those who attend them — either as mere specta- tors, contributors, or competitors for distinction, (fi We all well know the slow progress made by ili agricultural improvements, and the time wh.cli |t always elapses, before they get into general use. n Our scepticism, in this respect, exceeds that ' even of St. Thomas himself; for we believe nothing that we hear — and require not only to see, and to feel, before we give any credit to what we are told; but rarely then, act immedi- ately upon our belief The History of the Carey or Dagon Plough among us, furnishes as remarkable an instance of this fact, as any that I have ever known. The two first ever brought to this town, remained in the stable yard of the Indian Queen Tavern nearly a year, before any one would even try them. During all this time, they lay the objects of doubt and cunning suspi- cion, to all the knowing ones, each fearing- to meddle with them, lest he should render him- self a mark of ridicule to the rest, for putting any faith in so ill-looking a tool. And there probably they would have continued for years, ifan enterprising Yankee, then a resident here, had not boldly resolved, at every risk, to achieve the perilous adventure of making the first trial. Even after he had demonstrated the merit of this plough, i dare say it was nearly ten years, before it was generally used in all the contiguous parts of the country. Nearly a sim- ilar fate has attended those superior ploughs, which have been slowly superceding the Carey. One principal reason, perhaps, of this may be, that after our cobbling Smiths once get into a NEW ENGLAND FARiMER. 165 y of generally malvinganew agricultural im- meiit, according to their fashion, which fre- •ntly resembles almost any thing better than ; article designed to be imitated ; a common nion prevails, that this implement costs us le or nothing, because we pay for it after nths, and often years of delay, in some kind agricultural product — or, because, as it con- utes an item in that unlucky thing culled a ksmith's account, it is never paid for at all. lero is so wide. a difference hetween this meth- of obtaining our agricultural implements, and ying what is emphatically called " actual cash" them ; that the Solomons of our tribe, who never surprised into the juvenile indiscre n of neing, the tir^t to try a new thing — es- C'allv if it comes from a distance, and " cos's meij ,•" can scarcely yet forego the propheix jasiue of shaking their wise heads at, and con- ning to ruin the man who dares to violate this ■ilinal maxim of their rural ecoiiomy. Noth- r is better calculated to banish these ridicu- js prejudices ; and nothing more facilitates e general adoption of agricultural implements, every kind, than the frequent recurrence ol ectacles of a similar character to the present. >r, on such occasions, we become eye-witnesses most ol' those inventions, vvhich mechanical ill and ingenuity have devised for our use ; ,d of which, we either might not hear for !ars; or if hearing, might discredit, provided e confined ourselves, as many do, to our own rms, nearly secluded from all intercourse with IF fellow citizens, but such as live next door us. That mmd has never yet been formed, beleive, which could bear such seclusion, with- it being contracted, and materially impaired it. Another advantage, and by no means e smallest, evidently resultmg from such as- cialions, is, that we learn to appreciate more stlv, the capabilities of our art, when occular oof is exhibited to us of what can be etfecte.l those who follow it assiduously, uniier tht- fluence of those powerful, because voluntary icouragements, held out to them by agricultu- I societies. Hence, we are naturally led to it.mate more highly the power, resources, and onorable character of agricultural pursuits, in jmparison with any other, instead of underval- ing them, as far too many of us appear to do. len, in fact, must respect themselves and their rofession, to obtain the respect of others. And oless our agricultural people evince their re ard for their own occupation, by always assert- ig the rank to which they have a just claim, 1 the great scale of national interest, they may ount with certainty, upon being degraded, not nly in public estimation, but likewise in their wn. As to the feelings and views of those who at- end such exhibitions as the present, in the haracter either of spectators, contributors, or ompetitors for premiums, I will now olTer a ew remarks. Of the first, I shall only say, that take it tor granted, they have come well dis- osed to be pleased with the humble effort made o interest them ; and to engage their good vishes, for the success and continuance of our indertaking. In regard to the second, although confidently trust, that we all think much alike m the subject of our institution, yet 1 cannot brbear to suggest, that, if they notice any thing Which falls short of their expectations, they nust not too soon be discouraged ; nor suffer a small failure at first, to deter them from an- other effort to get up a Show and Fair, which shall be worthy of the extensive and fertile country, over which our society has already dif- fused itself. In one year more, we may hope for such an accession of members, (the annual contribution being only two dollars,) as will considerably augment the premium fund, which we shall zealously appropriate, in the best man- ner our judgments can devise, for promoting o\ir good cause ; and if ine fail^ (a misfortune 1 will not anticipate,) it shall not be the fault of the Agricultural Society of Fredericksburg. And now, before I conclude, I must make free to suggest a few hints, for the consideration of those who mean to compete for the premi- ums which we have already offered. As our society in making this offer, have been prompted solely by their wishes to promote the general good, they have studiously endeavored, ill selecting their committee of premiums, to se- cure such awards as will bo equally disinterest- ed and exempt from all local or partial consid- erations. Should any individual competitor, therefore, be inclined to question the correct- ness of their decision in this particular case, I must be permitted to express my hope, that he will deem it better, silently to acquiesce in a determination which, although it should be erroneous, cannot proceed from any but correct motives ; rather than impair the utility and gen- eral good effect of agricultural premiums pub- hckly awarded, by arraigning either the judg- ment, or the equity of men, who must necessa- rily decide right in many more instances than they determine wrong. We cannot expect those who fail to obtain rewards to be equally pleased with those who gain them; but we may Si do calculate on the competitors for our premi- ums being true and genuine friends to the cause of agriculture. And if they are, we can rely fuUv on those who may be unsuccessful, making all due allowances for their respective failures; so far at least as to acquit our committee of any design to thwart their particular efforts to gain the prizes at which they have aimed. 1 feel the more solicitous on this subject from my anx- ious wish that in this our first attempt of the kind, no circumstance should occur, either to produce disagreement among ourselves ; or to throw the slightest obstacle in the way of our future exhibirions. Not that I fear either the competency or inclination of our committee to decide correctly : But the same thing »io^ pos- sibly happen here, which I see by the public Journals has taken place in one of our sister states; and I would willingly guard against it by a timely caution. The case alluded to, is one of an individual, evidently interested, coming for- ward to arraign either the judgment, or the jus- tice, or both together, of certain judges, as ev- idently disinterested, who were selected by one of our sister societies to form a committee of premiums. This being a common cause to all agricultural societies, I must take the liberty to offer one or two general remarks prompted by the occasion. Any such instance of palpable selfishness, so far from engaging public sympa- thy, cannot fail to excite unqnalified disappro- bation. The public, whose sense of justice, will always lead them to right decisions in the end, will never take part with an individual" who complains of what he only conceives to be an in- jury, and that to himself alone, in opposition to the decision of numerous aud obviously rmpar- partial arbiters, who are so circumstanced, as to have no possible interest, either direct, remote, or contingent in deciding against Iiim. At the worst, such a ilecision can only be an insulated, and single mistake, unaccompanied by any of tho.se general consequences, which threaten in- jury, either to the community at large, or to any portion thereof, considered as a separate class. I must now, my friends, bid you farewell We have all met, as 1 sincerely trust, with feel" ings such as should ever govern men engage n a common cause, and bound together by th ' ties of a common interest. Let us all part i^ the same spirit, to meet again, twelve months hence, with increased hopes and wishes for the prosperity of our Agriculture, as the true basis, and best security for the permanent welfare and 'lappiness of our beloved country. TO THE EDITOR OF THE NEW ESCLAND FARMER. I was pleased to see in thy paper of Nov. 16th, a demonstration that my rule for guaging is true. The rules of the author of that piece are ingenious and correct, yet far more tedious than the mode by which I discovered my rule, which 1 now consider myself in duty bound to explain and render intelligible to any person, master of the common rules of arithmetic. 1 must first premise that it is demonstrated by Euclid that the contents of all circles are in proportion to the squares of their diameters. Second, that any division may be performed by multiplication, and frequently requires fewer figures. The performing of division by multi- plication is founded on the neutral properties of an unit or one, which none of the authors on arithmetic appear to have explained, or per- haps fully to have understood ; — for to multiply one by one, or to divide one by one, the pro- duct and quotient will be the same ; therefore as one can neither be increased nor diminished by multiplying or dif iding by itself", it is a sta- tionary number in either rule. For instance, suppose we wish to divide 8 by 2, by multipli- cation, divide 1 by 2 and the quotient will be ^5 — then multiply 8 by ,5 and the product will be 4, and the same rule will hold equally good in any larger numbers. Then as it is proved by Euclid that the contents of all circles are in proportion to the squares of their diameters ; say by the plain Rule of Three, as the content of any circle is to the square of its diameter, so is 231, the cubic inches in a gallon, to 294, the number to divide by to find the gallons, if we take the square of the diameter in place of the content of the circle — but as 294 is a tedious number to divide by, perhaps the division would be more readily perlbrmed by multiplication ; therefore divide an unit or one by 294, and you have ,0034 for a quotient to multiply by to find the true content. As the ingenious gentleman " Hhd. alias 4 Bbls."' has demonstrated the same thing in a very dilTerent and more tedious manner, it ap- pears that we are both correct, and 1 would wish for a further correspondence with him on various Theorems, not doubting but many use- t'ul rules may be discovered, more short, plaio and easy than what they have been laid dowD by European Authors. SAMUEL PRESTON- Stockport, Pa. JVov. 29, 1822. m NEW" ENGLAND FARMER. From the ^'e^/-Vork Statesman. TO nOOLLEX MA^■UFACTVRERS. 1 beg leave to inform you that a bed of ex- cellent rullers' Earth has been, discovered on the margin of the Nortii River, in the State of New York. A? tltis article has ever been con- sidered a a:ranil desideratum in the Woollen Manufacture, I congratulate you on the discov- ery, and moro particularly thai it is owned by an individual who possesses so much liberality as to offer it for sale in this city,* at the same price it is sold at in the manufacturing districts in England — thus placing you, so tar as this ar- ticle is concerned, on a par with European man- ufacturers. As it is presumed you are mostly unacquaint- ed with its use and value, I have, for your information, added a statement of the mode of applying it, and the advantages to be derived therefrom. You must be aware that Fullers' Earth is the only material with which coloured cloth ought to be cleansed, as v.ell black as blue ; and that before cloth is coloured in the piece, it is abso- lutely necessary to use this article to prepare it to receive the dye. You may not, however, be equally aware that the superiority of the colors imported from Europe, are in a great de- iCree attributable to their using this earth, after the manner hereinafter described. Fullers' Earth, when dry, if good, should be .smooth and slippery like soap : It sliould not perl'ectly dissolve iu water, but when immersed in that fluid in a dry state, it falls so as to as- sume the appearance of suds, and on rubbing the hands with it in this state, it ought to be free from grit and perfectly smooth. Its use on cloth, is tirst to clean all the =oap and grease out after braying and before fulling-, and to cleanse the color and soap out at'ter fulling. In color- ing of cloth it is ever used to prepare it for the dye, and to cleanse the color after dyeing. Earth is not only the best agent with which to perform these operations, but what is equally important, it is the cheapest of any, as it will be sold at one dollar per one hundred pounds. On cleansing nf cloih previous to and after dyeing, Many of the minor operations in a factory, which those who are not well versed in the business are apt to neglect as of little or no con- r-equence, have an important bearing on the well-being of the whole. Such are the opera- tions I am nor.- about to describe ; and I am sor- ry to have to observe that they are too general- ly neglected in this country. I must remark (and it cannot be too forcibly impressed) that to clean cloth well from grease and other extrane- ous matter, previous to dyeing, is a necessary preliminary to the proiluction of good colors, Jmd to cleanse them well al"terwards, is equally necessary to llio maintenance oi' the manufactu- rer's rej)utai!oii. Blue, Idack, and other dark colors, arc steam- ed before they are carried to the fulling mill; they arc then taken to the stocks ;.nd washed under the hammer-( until the water runs clear from tliem. when they are taken out and hung tipon long wooden pegs (placed in the walls of the building) till the following day ; they are * 'Ihc bed from -(vhicli Ihc rarlh is olilaiued, is own- ed by .Mr. Clirystlf, ot'KisliUill-l.niulinj, and is sold by a per'on of the snmcuamc, wlu) keeps au carthern-'ware (Store ia Maidcnhmc- then taken down, spread open, and wet Fuller's Earth thrown all over the face ; the lists are now thrown together, and they are carefully placed in the stocks, which arc plugged up, and the hammers let doiTn,and permitted to play on the cloth, without water, for half an hour or forly minutes ; the cloth is then handed out, the lists pulled square, and the earth spread even on the cloth, and more Earth added if noccessary ; the cloth is then put again into the stock?, and the hammers suffered to play upon it one or two hours, after which a small quantity of water is let run into the stocks; not more than would pass j through a large wheatcn straw, for one hour, in I order that the Earth may be diluted slowly and I by degrees. After that, the cloth is once more j handed out, the lists pulled square, then put again into the stock*, and the plug pulled out, when a suflicicnt quantity of water is introduced to make it perfectly clear. During the last op- eration, it is to be from time to time handed out, in order to prevent its taking a wrong position in the stocks, and being torn. The water that comes out of the stocks shows whether the cloth is clean; for that which runs out ought to be equally as clear as that which runs in. — If on trying the cloth, you perceive it still soils, it must be worked with Earth a sec- ond time. River or clear rain water is the best to mix with the Earth, and spring water for washing it out. To prepare cloth for dyeing, it must be work- ed with Earth as before directed, only when it has gone the first half hour in the Earth, a small stream of water is let run in for half an hour, and then a full stream, until it is quite clean. — The handings out, as before directed, must be observed. Many people color their blacks af^ ter fulling, without scouring with Earth ; but the colors will not be so good, nor will they clean so well afterwards, because there will al- ways remain a portion of the soap in the cloth, which washing with mere water will not detach from it, and when this comes into the black li- quor, or any other dye, the soap will be decom- posed ; the soda will be combined with the acids, and the grease being liberated, will pro- duce nn effect equal to the coloring of g^easv cloth. On cleansing of cloth from its grease in the flannel. In general, unrinous liquor and water are suf- ficient to clean a cloth from its grease in the llauuel after it is woven ; but when the wool has not been properly scoured from its yolk, or filth, or when the cloth has been manufactured, a great while, it is necessary to add to the urine a solution of Fuller's Earth, and to do it some- times two, three, and even four times over, notnithstnnding which it is almost ever neces- sary to work such cloth twice more with Earth prior to fulling ; but this is done only after it has been burled. It is important that cloth should be thorough- ly free from grease before it be fulled; for soap which softens grease, but does not dissolve it, form;- with it a clammy substance which adheres very strongly to the cloth, and is scarcely ever to be removed by anv subsequent operation. \Vli,^n cloth has been lulled, it has to be wash- ed clean from the soap, and this app.u-enfly sim- ple o;)eralion cannot be elToclujlly done with- out I-'ullers' Earth. Those who have never scoured wool-dyed cloth, after fulling, as the li- nal operation, ra:i have no idea how much the beauty and intensity of the colors is thereby i| proved. Rcing aware of the disadvantages the wooll manufacturers were laboring under for want good Fullers' Earth, and suspecting there mi be plenty In the country, 1 last spring handed paper to the editors of the Statesman, requei ing samples might be sent to their office to 1 inspected by a person who was a judge of tl article. Numerous samples were sent, ai among them I consider that which is now offe ed for sale, as the best. After trying it on small scale, I had a box of it sent to an expe enced English fuller to try it on cloth, and 1 pronounced it to be of a superior quality. The next best sample, and in fact the on other one that was Fullers' Earth, was sent by gentleman from Virginia. This was of exce lent quality ; but between every layer thei was deposited some coarse sand, that would ha to be separated by solution, before the Eart could be used. I am informed there is an ine haustible quantity in the beds from whence tb sample was taken. I mention this fact, to prove that there nev< will be a deficiency of the article, and to infon fnanufacturers that should the supply from th other ever fail, I shall be ready to give them ii struction (if they need it,) how to separate th grit nt a very easy expense. Editors of papers who are desirous of promi ting the manufacturing interest, are requeste to give this an insertion. W. P. 'Kc-^--York, j\ov. 20. FOR THE NF.W E.NGL.*ND FARMER. Ma. Editor, 1 saw with no small degree of surprise an regret, the Communication under the signatur of ■' A Member of the Berkshire Agricultur: Society," in your paper of the last week. Your correspondent had not a correct know edge of the facts, or his good sense would, trust, have placed a more favorable constructio upon the feelings and principles which anima ed the associated agriculturists at the Worceste Cattle Show ; at least /might have relied upo his justice and candor to have spared me thi intrusion upon your readers. But my apolog; for repeating, what must be considered as haT ing too little interest, or novelty, is the duty owe to the Massachusetts Society for the pro motion of Agriculture, whose organ I became and what is due to my own discretion ; but mon especially to the Berkshire Agricultural Society whose merit and exertions I highly estimate and upon whose good opinion I set too high i value, to submit to its silent forfeiture. I an' charged in effect — first, with arraying myself a.' the organ of the Society in the garb of profferet compliment ; and secondly, in having forgottetl the honorable distinction to which the Berkshire' Society was entitled. I should blush to think 1 did either, and appeal to the following facts foi support. As passing to the busy scene, it was requesteii of me by my associates of the committee, that if the Worcester Society should honor the Mas- . sachusetts Society in a toast, that 1 should res- pond thereto. Such notice xcas taken, in a man-| ner highly hospitable, courteous and polite, in the following toast : " The Massachusetts Agricultural Society — The sobI which animatud " llie Heart," and which is infusins life iato the extremities of the Commonwealth." I NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 1C7 However gratifyina: it w;is, to be supposed IS to deserve, and however lionorary aiiddis- o-aishing the compliment from such a source, I, as the Massachusetts Society had never de any claim ibr the ascription of so high use ; but on the contrary, at their first iVd- ■ss at Brighton, by a distmguisliod officer, and all their proceedings, had most i^ratefully ac- owledged the successful etTorts and co-opera- ns of the County Societies, it was deemed Ih just and proper to make such observalion reply as might indicate a due sense of the nplinjcnt contained in the toast, as well as of polite manner in which it was introduced, 1 point to the County Societies as the sources m which this " animation," so gratifying to who delight in the prosperity of agricultnre, .3 essentially derived. The toast, therefore, 'en in response, was with this view, preced- by the following remarks. The Worcester .\gricultural Society was con- itulated upon the respectable assemblage of lividuals who were with such zeal engaged the promotion of its objects. Upon the very gratifying display which to the aor of the Society had been offered for e.xhi- ion. And upon the happy results which such a te of things gave the comm'inity a well )unded right to expect, in the advancement the Agricultural interests of the state. , In reply to the notice which they had seen fit take of the .Agricultural Society of Massachu- ts, it would be recollected that whatever of ;cess had arisen by their exertion, the praise ODged to the agriculturists of every part of the mmonwealth. But now that (he several county societies re so zealous and so distinguished in their •eral spheres of exertion, it was to their co- !ration that the Massachusetts Soc.ety and the intry at large might well look with confidence I have a right to expect the most auspicious ults. The expression of a wish for their future pros- rity, introduced the following toast : • The Worcester Agricultural Society — May their cess be commensurate with their zeal, iatellijence I patriotism." (hope, in this explanation, to have satisfied V member of the Berkshire Society" that / \ not forget, but had t'ully in mind the " honor- e distinction to which the Berkshire associa- D was entitled." The praise so ardently bo- wed by Mr. Lowell, in his Address, and so phatically quoted by your correspondent upon he vigor and intelligence of the Berkshire So- ty as having been productive of great emula- Tiof improvements in Agriculture," most in- < itestibly evincos the respect entertained by t Massachusetts Society for that of Berkshire, riie recommendation of " prudence, caution, I c icy, and circumspection," is of high authori- t and should have great weight.* \ generous emulation must produce the best € ;cts ; but a jealous rivalship will place all at i^trd. To produce the former, will be th ■ I a of the Massachusetts Agricultural Society : ii, as your correspondent declares, " it is noi !• intention to provoke any collision or inaus- I'ious rivalries among citizens and societies Xkoted to the same great and useful pursuits." President Adams' Letter, It is hoped that this explanation may give him satisfaction, and his zealous efforts come in aid of what constitutes the interest of each and every society, the common welfare and happi- ness. 1 am respectfully. Yours, {ic. JOHN WELLES. THE FARMER. BOSTOJ^ .—SATURDAY, DEC. 21, lii,'.'. CONGRESSIONAL. After the standing committees were ajipoiiited ac- cording to custom, the long agitated subject of the claim of Baumarcliais was referred to a select commit- tee of five. — The Rev. Mr. Breckenridge, of Kentucky, was chosen Chaplain of the House after five ballots. — \ Message wac received from the President relative to the outrages and depredations of the Pirates in the West Indies, and the Gulf of Mexico, exemplified by the death of a very meritorious officer, recommending the employment of such public vessels as are capable of pursuing them into the shallow waters to which they retire. — Another Message was received from the Presi- dent, on the subject of the Christian Indians in Ohio, and the lands granted to them ; and a report on the public buildings was communicated and committed. — \ bill respecting the disbursement of public moneys reported the last session was called up, debated upon, and ordered to be reprinted. — A number of bills were introduced and some progress made with them, among wliich were a bill granting relief to certain citizens in Michigan, who had expended property in relieving captives taken by the Indians in 1813; a hill to pro- vide for the national defence by improving the militia of the United States ; and a bill for allowing the wid- owed mother of Lieut. W. H. Allen, a half pay pension for five years. — A plan for the peace establishment of the Xavy was communicated by the President. — A res- olution was adopted requesting information from the President respecting advances of money to public a- gents. — A resolution was passed requesting information from the President relative to the Porto Rico expedi- tion.— On the 13th the bill for the suppression of piracy was read a third time and passed without a division, and sent to the Senate for concurrence. This bill au- thorises the President to purchase or construct a suffi- cient number of vessels in addition to those now em- ployed, of such description as he may deem necessary, and to fit them for the services of repressing piracy, Sic. and the sum of if 160,000 was appropriated for that purpose. FARMER SU.MMARY OF NEWS. On .Monday last, the trial of Mr. Joseph T. Bucking- ham, indicted for pullishing an alleged libel in the Galaxy, on the Rev. .lohn N. Maffitt, commenced be- fore the Municipal Court. Counsel for the Defendant, Mr. Hooper of this city, and Mr. Hallet of Providence ; and the County .Utorney, .Tas. T. Austin, Esq. for the prosecution. The learned Judge decided that in all cases of indictment for printing a libel, our constitu- tions secured to the defendant a right to give the truth oi the allegations in evidence, to exonerate him from the charge, and that although the County Attorney had granted that permission, he could not claim it by virtue of such grant, as it was due to him by the laws of the land. The examination of witnesses occupied the whole day ; in the evening the counsel on both sides were heard, and the Court adjourned. Tuesday morning, .ludge Quincy gave the cause to the jury in an eloq^ient and i.iipressive charge. He divided the charges in the alleged libel into five, to wit : 1. Accus- ed Mr. Mamtt of falsehood— 2. Of infidelity— 3. Of be- traying confidence — 4. Of ridiculing persons wh:) came ■ 0 the altar — 5. Of light, loose and lascivious behavior, and stated the evidence on these points, and directed 'he jury, if they were satisfied that the truth of these charges was established, and that the publication was made for " a good motive and justifiable end," the de- '"■ndant must be acquitted ; otherwise he must be found ruilty. The jury went out at 11 o'clock, and after being absent five hours without agreeing, came in, and inquired of the Judge, whether if in their opinion some of the allegations were proved by defendant, and some were not, they should acquit, or convict the defendant ? The Judge repeatid to them a part of his cliarje (■■. this eficct: 'J"hat il the alltgatinns proved were in Iheir opinion of such a nature, and of such In'gh import;inc>' as to authorize the def, tidant to attack the character of the person with a \iresent the constitu- tional system as advancing with a fair prospect ofsc- curing the happiness and independence of the nation. Morales, the Spanish General, has published a proc- lamation condemniig to tlie gallows, or some worse punishment, all strangers found in any v.sy aiding the patriot cause, even as merchants residing in the coun- try. This has been animadverted on with much acri- mony by the Governor of Curacoa. A House of Industry has lately been constructed in South lloston, is nearly completed, and is a sfacious commodious and elegant structure. ]t cost about forty thousand dollars. A fire took place at Cincinnati, (Ohio) on the 26th ult. which destroyed a range of old buildings, hereto- fore well known as Dickey's tavern. A bill has been introduced before the legislature of Georgia, "to establish and endow a public teat of learning for the education of females.'" .\ young girl was instantly killed in Philadelphia last week by a stcae carelessly thrown by a boy in thf street. Last week, at the S. J. Court, .Nathan Severance, of Charlestown, ifas found guilty on three indictments of passing counterfeit money in Marblehead, and senten- ced to four years hard labor in the state prison ; his brother .loel, connected with him, and considered the principal, had before been sentenced for life. John How, for stealing a horse and chaise at Gloucester, was sentenced for 18 months. — SaUm Gazette. Dislressing accident. — On Saturday last (says a Bal- timore p.aper) a young lady, while standing by the fire place unfortunately approached so near the fire that it communicated to her dress. There being no one in the room with her but small children, her attempt to gain assistance by leaving it, served to increase the llaraes — and before the fire could be extinguished she was bunif so severely that her survival is in conse- quence rendered very uncertain. 7he distressing ef- fects of this accident shews that females cannot be too cautious in guarding against it. An Institution for the Deaf and Dumb has recently been established in PeDnsylvania. A duel was fought on the 30th Nov. between Wm Gumming, of Georgia, and a Mr. M'^Du/Tie, of S. Caro- lina, in which the latter had his arm broken. Hay, in large quantities, has been transported from Pittsburgh to New Orleans, where it affords a hand- some profit. .A'fif Ijiflammable Gas. — A short time since a person in this city received, from a gentleman at Springfield, half a barrel of pickles. They came to hand in the evening, and being desirous of looking at them, he took out the bung, when, to his consternation, the moment the air from the cask came into contact with the blaze of a lamp, that was held, it took fire, and continued to burn till the bung was replaced. — Palladium. A New York paper says a live Hog is row on board a sloop at a wharf in that city, which weighs l-)65 lbs. TTic fever at New Orleans has nearly subsided, and the citizens are daily returning. James J. Wilson, Esq. of Trenton, (N. J.) Editor of the True American, and member of the legislature of that state, on the Pth inst. in a delirium, conceiting his house to be on fire, threw himself out of a two sto- ry window, and by the fall broke both of his legs above the knees, and received other injury. His life is des- paired of. »4 ChaJlens;e. — A Virginian proposes a wager of five hundred dollars, that he will exhibit, at the Maryland Cattle Show, which may be held near Baltimore in the year 1824, a native Bullock of Virginia, of greater nctt weight than any that can be exhibited at the same time and place, by any New- Yorker, whose Bullock shall be a native of that Stat«. 168 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. BV T. C. FESSEXDF.N. Some of the following lines are altered and para- (jhrased from certnia passages in a poem, entitled, " TiiE Fleece," the production of Dyer, a British poet. — The adrantazrs of industry illuitraleJ ; houses nf labor recommended, and tagrants invited to accept of tuch atylunw. IVot only man but nature lives by toil. Beast, bird, the elements, and rolling worlds Exist by action ; nothing lies at rest irare sluggards, death and ruin. Man is born To care, and toil mu«t nurture him, or el«e His powers and faculties will never ripen ; Nonage will on the heels of dotage tread. And the poor biped will remain a child Through every stage of sublunary being. Wise states of yore, observing this, ordain'd Tliat rich and needy, high and low, be doom'J Alike to labor ; and they often call'd The rugged chieftain from his plough and fold. From ruling brutes to rule the commonwealth. Utility was then the test of merit Throughout all ranks. Then exercise gave health, Corporeal strength, and force of intellect. We owe to toil whatever raises man Above the wildest quatlruped that roamj The wilderness. Corn, wine and oil, "rae cottage and the dome, the joys of life, Are fruits of industry. What nature yields (And she performs her part) are mostly rude And raw materials, to be form'd by skill And industry, which fashion them to wealth. To idle want and vagrant vice, the means Of doing good true charity supplies, Means wherewithal to benefit themselves. And serve the common weal, by useful toil. In every village charity should raise TIorsES 01' i.ADOR — seats of kind restraint For those who wear out life in fruitless sports, And idleness, the harbinger of want ; Who each employment sedulously shun. Which honest wealth might yield, and something due By all to all, and public weal subserv*. Ye vagrant poor, who ramble to and fro. Like gipsey-hordes, and him who tempted Job, Who haunt the dwellings of the diligent For sustenance uncaru'd ; who ramljle wide From house to house, with mischievous intent, Feigning disease, with false and woful tales Of dire distress, and ye whom rtal want Has bowed like rushes, which the torrent sweeps — Who tread the rough liigh way without an aim, V.'ith painful step, and bitterness of heart, Gaunt children of aflliction, do not shun The path which terminates in all the bliss, Which charity can with discretion yield; I^et not false pride predominate, but turn Your step-swoln feet to gentle fiiendly toil. The loom awaits you, and the spinning wheel, The adzt, the awl, the iinplenirnts of art, Which plied with diligence will put dull care And carking reminiscences to llight. Here may you rest and place your pillow here. Safe from the pcUings of the pitiless storm, Pure beverage, wholesome viands shall be yours — To heal each sickues.s the physician waits. And pricit invites to give your Maker praise. Regard the world with cautious eye, Nor raise your expectation high, See that the balanc'd scales be such, Vnu neither fear nor hope too much. Support of Paupers. — The system of having a \vork-hnu>e, with land adjoining, where the pau- pers may do something to support themselves, has been adopted in many places with the most satisfactory results. The Christian Register says that the managers of the pauper establish- ment in Cambridge have paid ^80 into the town treasur}', after defraying all expenses nf the es- tablishment for the past year. — Pittsfchl Sun. From the Trenton F,mporium. March of Improvement. — A dozen years ago onh', and atrip from New-York to Norfolk, was considered an undertaking of no small magnitude — a journey of very uncertain termination — no-ji: you step on board the steam boat in New-York, and are safely landed in Norfolk in a couple of days. Formerly, before a voyage to Havana, there was an invariable closing of contracts, ar- ranging of business, drawing out and executing of wills, inournfal farewells and letters written back by the pilot boat — yww it is a neat little pleasure jaunt — its hardly worth while to bid good bye — just going down to Havana. And some think we shall soon travel over land as nicely as we do over water — Oliver Evans used to say that the time was coming when a trip to Pittsburg would be but a pleasant excursion — and when steam should supply the place of hor- Recipejor making a pound of Fire JVood save a cord. — From the end of a small, straight grain- ed stick, s;nv off a pound, and split it into as ma- ny pieces as it will aditiit for the purpose de- signed. Make each piece into the form of a wedge, and place one of those wedges between ihe casing and the top of the lower sash, where- ever the wind enters between the sashes. — Bos- ton Gazette. Singular Phenomena. — About two tons of re- fuse iron, consisting of tilings and shavinafs, were deposited in a wooden store near this village. By accident, a few quarts of linseed oil was spilt on the heap. In about three weeks after this occurred, a person walking over the mound per- ceived it to be very sensibly warm. In opening it, a great part of the interior was discovered to be heated to redness ! The iron was free from sulphur, which is known to inflame spontanco'is- ly with iron. — Taunton, Ms. paper. C^orsicaurujn. — A new mineral earth has been lately found in Corsica, thought to be impregna- ted with particles of gold. By chemical opera- tion, vases have been made of it for table ser- vices, and it is found to vie in color and lustre with the finest vermilion. The name of Corsi- caurum has been given to it ; it has the proper- ty of not discoloring white stufl's, which is not always the case with gold, (he most purified and refined. — A''. Hampshire Repository. The celebrated Englishman, Capt. Cochrane, who is famous both in and out of Europe, for his long excursions on foot, and has been for two years engaged in such a tour in Siberia, to dis- cover whether in the Northern Latitudes there is any connection between the continents of Asia and America, has married in Kamtscbatka, a na- tive of that country, and is now on his return. He has not found any junction of the two Con- tinents.— Hamburg paper. Newport, (R. I.) Dec. ' The remarkable propensity of cats, in 511 ing the breath of infants, has often been spok of, and has been considered by many as fal lous ; but an instance occurred in this town, I week, which should put parents upon th< guard against this danger. The mother had I the infant in the care of a domestic — on b return, she was informed that the cat w found with its two fore paws fast encircling t child's neck, and its mouth in that of the chi which was nearly suffocated ; and great exi tions were necessary to extricate the helpli little snffcrer from its perilous situation. T story was not much heeded by the mother, I what was her horror on being awaked in t night, by the convulsed struggling of the infa and finding the same cat, in the same positic and the child again reduced to nearly the 1. extremity ! The cat was immediately thrust c of the window — and so much eagerness did s manifest to return to her victim, she bro through a pane of glass to effect her object, was not until the cat had made the third tempt on the following day that she was put death. From the Westchester Herald. Rain. — Few persons are aware of the iounei f]uantities of rain which descend from the cloi in a certain space of time. Last Wednesc night, it was ascertained that the rain fell to ( depth of 8 inches. Now it follows, if we gi pose our county contains 500 square miles, r that the rain was equally plentiful through" the county, (hat nearly 1200 millions of ho heads of water must have been poured upon surface in that night only. Hence if we cal late iho Tappan sea to cover a surface of square miles, and that the wafer is 24 feet de upon an average throughout the whole bodj it appears, that nearly as much water was < charged from the clouds on Wednesday ev ing in this county alone as would fill the wh space occupied by the Tappan sea. This e mate may be amplified to any extent, and O) proves how vast is the divine power and beni olence ; and how trifling and contemptible i all the works of man in contrast only with ( most ordinary acts of God in his provident government of the world ! til From the Farmer's Calender for 1823. Useful Hi/Its. — " Sir, asked a young man, « you be so kind as to measure this load of woo My father has sold it to Mr. Crispin, the shi maker. Father says there is a good cord, 1 Mr. C. says no, and they have left it to you."' " Well my lad, there is just about six feet of It is almost every stick too short, and I can s there are some hollow places in it, and now S| then a rotten stick tucked in." Who comes here ! Oh 'tis Capt. Thrifty ! i' never goes to a tavern or grog-shop to lay stores lor Sunday. Whatever he does is do quickly and then he is off. He treats no Me, at (he tavern or retailer's cup. No morni drams, or clcrcn o'clock.s for him. He has plei of good beer and cider. He never contra more than he can pay in season. He pays interest, because he pays the principal and th saves the expense of suits, and the vexatioi^ contending with his neighbor. NEW ENGLAND FARMER ublished every Saturday, by THOMAS \V. SHKI'AIU), Rojcra' Ijiuldins-, Coiiyrfss Street, Bosti^ii ; at $;!,W) pir ami. in ailvauce, or |<;",0U at the closi- of the yeai- Vol. I. BOSTOiN, SATURDAY, DECEMBER 28, 1822. No. 22. DISEASES OF CATTLE. BY THE EDITOR. In our paper of Nov. IGth, No. 16, p. 120, »e proposed " to give articles from the most ■pproveil authors, relating- to the diseases of •attle, hordes, swine, sheep, &,c. and we now )rropriated .ibout one and a half mil- lions of dollars, lor the benefit of rolleges and academies. Tliis amount has gone almost exclu- sively for the education of young men designed for the professional and mercantile classes. And what has been done for the education of Plough Boys, — whose i>roductive labors are the life- blood of our commerce, the sinews of our man- ufactories, and the food and raiment of our pro- Jessions ? Comparatively nothing. It is ardently to be hoped, that the example of Virginia, prompted as it is by the intelligent mind of a Madison, will awaken our legislature to a just sense of the importance of establishing a school of agriculture. I have no doubt but it would tend, more than any other measure, to improve our husbandry ; and that the increased tolls up- on our canals, which it would cause, by increas- ing the productions and profits of our farms, would remunerate the state, in ten years, the whole expense of the establishment. You have said there is at least one establish- ment of this kind. 1 presume you allude to that of M. Fellenburgh, at Hofwyl, in Switzerland. \ This school affords a demonstration not only of i the practicability, but of the usefulness, of| teachincr, conjointly, the theory and practice of i agriculture. So high has its reputation become,! that many of the young German noblemen are sent to IVi. de Fellenburgh for instruction ; and his pupils receive extravagant salaries as man- agers upon many of the great estates on the con- tinent 1 advise you to procure and publish an account of the institution. It may be found in one of the Edingburgh Reviews ; I think, in the volume for 1817. There is also a report of it, made to the Emperor of Russia, in 1814, by the Count de Capo d'Istria ; a pamphlet by M. Pictet, of Geneva, and considerable said in its commendation by Mr. Brougham, in a report to the commons ofGreat-Britian, made in 1818, on the subject of education. Mr. B. spent some time at Hofwyl. But this is not the only school. In a volume of recent travels through Hungary, Dr. Bright enumerates six or eight, and says there are others, which have been established in the Austrian dominions, t)y the government and by individuals, on tbe Hofwyl plan. Accum, the w ell known chemist, has recently received an appointment in a similar school, from the King of Prussia. But why seek for European precedent? We have a double inducement for such a school here. It will give us good statesmen as well as good farmers. We want farmers whose education will qualify them to speak in our leg- islative halls, to draft bills and reports, and to discharge the duties of any of our public offices. We want the yeomanry of our state to possess the influence which their numbers and republi- can virtue entitle them to ; and we wish to in- struct them, that their influence may be direct- ed to public good. COLUMELLA. On the means of promuting the grozvth of Young' Fruit Trees., particularly in grass land. By the Rev. Mr. Gennershausen. From the Transactions of the Economical Society of Leipsic. When young trees stand in grass-land, or in gardens where the earth is not dug up every year around them, and freed from weeds, they do not at first increase properly in growth, and will not thrive so well as those v.'bich have been planted in cultivated ground. It has been re- marked also, in orchards, that the more the ground becomes grassy, and, as it were, convert- ed into turf, ibe Iruit is smaller and not so well tasted. Tiie latter circumstance takes place particularly with regard to plums. Having planted several young plum trees, I covered the ground, for some years, around the trunks, as far as the roots extended, with flax- shows,* by which means these trees, though in a grass-field, increased in a wonderful manner, and far excelled others planted in cultivated ground. As far as the shows reached, the grass and weeds were choaked ; and the soil under tliim was so tender and soft, that no better mould could have been wished for by a florist. When I observed this, I covered the ground with the same substance, as far as the roots ex- tended, around an old plum tree, whicU aj)poar- ed to be in a languishing state, and which stood ♦Shows arc the refuse of flax when it is fcutched or hackled. in a grass field. The consequences were, tbi ^"'' it ac(|uired a strong new bark; produced large ^" and better tasted fruit ; and that those youn "'' siioots which before grew up around the sterr *^ and which it was every year necessary to des '''"' troy, were prevented from sprouting forth, a '!''' the covering of flax-shows impeded the fre^ >"*' access of air at the bottom of the trunk. i'" Last year 1 transplanted from seed-beds, int "." the nursery, several fruit trees ; the grouni ^" around some of which I covered, as above, witl ''^° flax-shows. Notwithstanding tiie great heat o * the summer, none of those trees where the eartl '*' was covered with shows, died or decayed ; be ?'" cause the shows prevented the earth under then '"' from being dried by the sun. Of those treei *"' arounil which the ground was not covered,a3 be '■* fore mentioned, the fourth part miscarried ; anc i*^' those that continued alive were far weaker thatl *''' tbe fbrmdr. 8it> The leaves which fall from trees in autumi) f' may also be employed for covering the ground, in like manner : but stones, or logs of wood must be laid on them, to prevent their beinj^ dispersed by the wind. In grass land, a smaL trend, may ba made around the roots of the "!' tree, when planted, in order to receive the '• leave'. If flax shows are used, this is not ne- cessary ; they lie on Ibe surface of the ground so fa*! as to resist the force of the most violent storm. The leaves which I have found most effectual, in promoting the growth and fertility of t'ruit trees, are those of the walnut tree. — Whether it is, that, on account of their contain- ing a freat abundance of saline particles, they conuninicate manure to the ground, which thereb/ becomes tender under them ; or that they attract nitrous particles from the atmos- phere or that, by both these means, they fend to nourish the tree, both above and below. These who are desirous of raising tender ex- otic trees from tbe seed, in order to accustom them io our climate, may, when they transplant them, employ flax-shows with great advantage. This covering will~prevent the frost from ma- king its way to the roots ; and rats and mice, on account of tbe sharp prickly points of the llax shows, will not be able to shelter themselves under them. Tan or the refuse bark which h.as been used hy tanners, has been recommended for the same purpose for which flax shows are advised as above. Tessicr's Annals of Agriculture advise to use the breakings or refuse of hemp in the manner above directed. Wood ashes and slack- ed lime are likewise stated to be useful, not only for manure, but for the destruction of in- 1 sects. It would be well if trials were made of all these substances, on different trees in the same orchard, and the results of such trials not- ed and published for the benefit of the commu- nity.— Ed. A*. E. Farmer. From Sinclair's Code of Agriculture. ' ' Rollers. — The roller is the most useful im- plement for breaking hard clods expeditiously, and smoothing the surface of land when in til- lage, ever yet invented. It is likewise of use- to grass lands laid down for hay ; and heavjf rollers would prevent those ant hills, by which' so many pasture? are deformed. Rollers «re NEW ENGLAND FARMER. lade of various substances ; as wood, freestone, ■ranite or cast iron; but on the whole the two rtter are to be preferred. It is of importance, bat the weight of the roller should be in pro- ortion to the surface on wliich it is to be em- loyed. The best plan, is that of having two oilers, each about two feet and a half in length, nd both placed in one frame, so as to roll iear of one another. This is the most suitable oth for corn crops and sown grass, as it neither ears up the tender soil, nor injures the yoima; lants. Besides the hibor in turning is much ^ss severe on the frame and on the cattle. Ev- rv farm ought to be provided with rollers of iVerent diameters and weights, so as to suit he several purposes to which they are destin- d ; those of a small diameter are generally ap- lied to land in tillage ; and those of a large di- meter, with double shafts, to grass land. Heavy oilers aro of great use, for destroying worms, lugs, and other vermin in the soil. An intelligent farmer maintains, that if drain- ag is the first, manuring the second, and culti- ation the thinl, rolling ought to be considered (le fourth principal operation in the processes f a"'riculture. — Its importance indeed, is becom- ig more apparent, and new advantages are de- lved from its use both on arable and on grass mds. Wheat should always be rolled in the Spring, fter frosts, as it makes the soil adhere more losely to the roots of the plants, encourages egetation and strengthens the stems, and ren- ers the grain more perfect. When any crop ; sown with nrtiticial grasses, rolling is partic- larly necessary, to make an even surface, bruis- ig all clods, and pressing down any stones it lay not be thought necessary to carry off, to icilitate the future operation of the scythe, tats in a light soil, may be rolled to advantage, nmediately after the seed is sown, unless the round be so wet as to cling to the roller. Af- ;r turnips are sown in drills, they ought to be nmediately rolled, to make the soil compact, nd to promote their speedy germination. Not nly for turnips, but for all other crops, rolling, tarticularly during the night, is found to be an Ifficient means of destroying skigs, snails, the fire worm, and other vermm, so destructive to lonng plants. Flax ought to be rolled immedi- itely after sowing ; it makes the seed vegetate iqually, and prevents after growth ; the bad ef- ects of which are visible iu every step of the •rocess for dressing flax. The other advantages for rolling arable land ipe, that it renders a loose soil more compact nd- solid. This encourages the growth of •lants, by pressing the soil to their roots. It ikewise keeps in the moisture, and prevents rought from penetrating. When the soil is worked up lightly, moisture either filters thro' t too quickly, or is easily evaporated. In a dry eason this may occasion a very material dirler- ;nce in the crop, more especially in a light soil. lolling is executed to most advantage across the lirection of the ridges, because more adapted 0 ensure full benefit to the furrows which olh- nvise may not be properly gone over. ^N hen a large field is to be rolled, a number 't rollers onght at once to be set at work, oth- rwise an opportunity may be lost never to be egained. ____ It h.^s long been considered, as arj incontro- ortible proposition, and approaching to the na- ture of an axiom, "That whoever could make two ears of corn, or two blades of grass, to grow upon a spot, where only one grew before, would deserve better of mankind, and do more essential service to his country, than the whole race of politicians put together." There nevei was a greater instance of sophis- try, than this doctrine of Swift's, who seems not to have been at all aware, of the immense bene- fits, conferred upon agriculture, by a judicioiis system of civil policy. In fact, the prosperity of agriculture, depends upon the politician. The better and more equitable the civil policy of a country, the more perfect will its agriculture be- come. Those politicians or statesmen, therefore, who, by removing every obstacle, and ttirnish- ing every proper encouragement to agriculture, promote its advancement, hava a higher claim to the gratitude of mankind, than those who have merely performed a secondary or practi- cal part, which part, they never could have per- formed at all, but under the protection of wise laws, regularly administered, and executed with impartiality and vigor. — Ibid. Rules to be observed regarding tlie Improvement of Waste Lands. In tha cultivation of wastes, the following rules are laid down by the most successful im- provers. 1. Not to put in practice an}' scheme of im- provement, without the fullest deliberation, nor without the command of an adequate capital. 2. Not to begin on too great a scale, nor un- til, by experiment it be found, that the design is suitable to the soil, situation and climate. 3. When the intention is to cultivate peat- moss, not to begin cropping, till at least one season after the drains are completed, and the soil thoroughly reclaimed from superiluou"; moisture. In flow or spongy mosses, a longer time is nccossar}', and it is desirable to expose the soil to the action of the atmosphere, during the frosts of winter. 1. To plough or delve peat-moss in autumn, that it may be effectually exposed to the win- ter tVost and rains, and not to the summei'"s heat, wliich hardens it, and prevents its decom- position. 5. Whatever is done, to do it effectually ; not to think of laying on four acres, the manure necessary for three ; nor the lime, chalk, earth, clay, sand or gravel, upon two acres, that should be employed in covering only one. 6. To carry on the improvement of waste lands, without encroaching upon the dung ne- cessary for the improved part of a farm, as dung ought never to be brought from a good soil to lay upon a bad one. Unless dung therefore can be procured from a neighboring town or village, it will be better to leave the lands in their nat- ural state, except in cases where the soil, by being pared, burnt, limed, or marled, or cover- ed with chalk, clay, earth, &.C. will pay the ex- pense of the improvement. 7. The last rule is, to lay down land, improv- ed from waste, more especially in high and bleak situations, as soon as possible into grass, and to retain it in that state as long as it is tol- erably productive. For though grain and roots may be cultivated on waste lands, when prop- erly improved, yet grass pastured, particularly b}' sheep, is principally to be depended on for improving all weak soils, in barren districts. In £71 such cases, it is (Vom grass alone that remuner- ation can be looked for by the improver of waste lands. Even though soils of this description do not produce grass in murh abundance, or of good quality, yet when in pasture they produce something, and a slop is put to farther expen- diture.— Ibid. Ditching. — When bushy ground, full of strong roots, is to be ditched, the Rev. Mr. Eliot wise- ly recommends beginning the ditch in the win- ter, when the ground is frozen two or three inches deep. The surface may be chopped in- to pieces by a broad axe with a long helve, and the sods pulled out with an instrument made like a dung croom. The farmer may probably hit upon a good time for this work in Decem- ber, when there happens to be no snow, and when it will not interlere with other farming business. The lower part of the ditch may be done in the following summer, or autumn. In a free and firm soil, a ditch may be begun with a plough, drawn by an orderly team that will keep to the line. This saves labor. To make a ditch straight, and equal in all its parts, it is recommended that the work be reg- ulated by a frame of slit deal, nailed together, to the exact size of the intended ditch. It may be a rod or more in length, and as wide as the intended ditch. — Dcane^s JV. E. Farmer. Rice Jelly. — This is one of the best and most nourishing preparations of rice, particularly for valetudinarians or convalescents. It is thus made : Boil a quarter of a pound of rice flour, with half a pound of loaf sugar, in fl quart of wa- ter, till the whole becomes one uniform gelatin- ous mass ; then strain oft' the jelly and let it stand to cool. .\ little of this salubrioas food ea- ten at a time, will be found very beneficial to those of a weakly and infirm constitution. Chemical Agency by the Magnet. — Mr. J. Mur- ray states, that he had succeeded in decomposing l)y the magnet, every metallic salt to which he had applied it. One instance of this fact, so inter- esting to science, we quote for the sake of its tendency'. ' A solution of p€rniit«ea(c ot mercu- ry was, by the magnet, soon reduced to metallic or running mercury.' — Hence fine steel filings, magnetized, administered in syrup, will be an admirable antidote to corrosive sublimate. London paper. Sir John Sinclair, in his Code of Health de- clares that the modern art of Fencing is pot on- ly conducive to longevity, but absolutely enlar- ges the bones of the chest and thorax. Locke calls it an essential part of good education. — IVright on Elocution, praises it as an auxiliary to Eloquence. Chatham, in one of his letters to his nephew, Lord Camelford, assures him, it will place his head upright and plant him well upon his legs. — Xational Ga:ctte. There is not an earthly beauty that I look upon, that has not something in it spiritual to me. And when my mind is fair and open, and soul right, there is not a flower I see that does not move my heart to feel towards it as a child of God. All that is, to my mind, is a type of what shall be ; and my own being and soul seem to me as if linked with eternity. — Idle Man. 172 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. TO THE EDITOR OF THE SEW ESCLAr.D lARMKR. Having seen in No. 10 of your paper, a re- quest for some information respectin'j the clieap- cst and best nioiie of clearinc^ heav}' timbered new lands — I send you the followinjf : From lona; experience and strict observation, 1 am of opi- nion that the generality of people involve Ibem- selves in more Llian twice the hibor and ex- pense necessary for the waHt of prudent care and attention in falling their timber. Most farmers when they begin in the woods, are in a hurry to have some land cleared ; they hire their chop- j)ing done by the job, and such chopper", so hired, are only interested in doing it as fast as possible. 'J'hey generally cut the smallest tim- ber first, fall the trees promiscuously in all di- rections the way they will go wilh the least chopping, and the largest trees the last. Then after it has lain a year to drv and tlie fire been through it, to burn the small brush, the logs lay in all directions ; the smaller fast under the larger, and it will then be twice the labor to clear it oil, (hat it would be if nothing had been done, provided they would follow the following directions. 1st. Take a view of all the large trees, and see which way they ma}' be felled, for the greatest number of smaller trees to be fell- ed along side, or on them. Alter felling the large trees, only lop down the limbs ; but all such as are felled near them, should be cut in suitable lengths for two men to roll aud pile about the large trees, by which means they may be nearly all burnt up without cutting into lengths or the expense of a strong team to draw them together. 2d. Fell all the other trees parallel and cut them into suitable lengths that they may be read- ily rolled together without a team, always cut- ting the largest trees first that the smallest may be loose on the top to feed the fires. 3d. On hill sides fell all the timber in a lev- el direction, then the logs vvill roll together, and if the trees are felled down hill, all the logs must be turned round before family and in his stock ; and, sometime in addition makes considerable purchases ft consumption. That this method should conth ually add to the fertility of a farm, is not doub ed; but whether it will give the greatest nci profit lor any given course of years, is submitte to Agriculturalists who love to make exper meiis, and also love to make calculations. The Committee next viewed the crops ( Messrs. Folsom and Whittle, of Deering. TheJ Oats, growing on 21 acres of ground, were ger erally very heavy, and were considered worth of the premium offered for the best crop of tha species of grain. Their Potatoes, \^ acre looked very well, but did not excel. Thei Wheat, ol which there were four acres, was ve ry good, and would have received a premiurr had not other fields, in conqietition, been bctte Their farm contained about 100 acres of goo land. The soil was strong; but from its clos texture, it appeared to be better adapted geC erally to grass than to grain. The Commute" were a little surprised to see, on such a goo and extensive farm, keeping 40 head of cattk- and 70 sheep, only 2J- acres of Indian Corn, c no more than ordinary luxuriance. But th groat article of this farm and the source c wealth to its owners were stock ; which gav evid'mce of the superior quality of the breet and the excellence of their keeping. The farr was well managed, and distinguished for som of its well built and permanent fences. Tke farm of Mr. William Whittle, of Weare conliiins about 200 acres of land of various qua) ities. His Wheat crop, covering four acres c ground, appeared very well. It has suffere from the early drought. On comparison, it coul not command a premium. Seven acres of hi ground were planted with Indian Corn. Th field was a pine plain; the soil very light; th manuring small. Considering these circumstat ces the crop commanded attention. The thir premium on Indian Corn was awarded to him His farm generally appeared to be under profifabte process of cultivation. Mr. Peter M'Neil, of New-Boston, has a fanii generally hard and uneven. By industry 1h makes it fruitful and profitable. He offered u acre of Wheat for examination. The crop wa very good, and it was esteemed worthy of tbi second premium. Mr. Jacob Hooper, Jr. of New-Boston, ofler ed several crops for examination. They wen all good, but none was entitled to a premiuD excepting his Flax, for which the first awan was made. His farm, of 200 acres, lies principally on i beautiful hill, whose ascent is easy, and nhosi soil, thougHi not of the richest quality, was verj feasible. His fields were laid out with accura' cy and cultivated with the greatest care. The' fences were exceedingly well built, and of tbi most durable materials. Not a bush infestcj the walls, or headlands; nor a weed of a finger'r length encumbered his fields. Not a squirrel or a mouse, could find rubbish enough for I luricing place, from which they m.ght sallj forth to make their depredations upon tbt crops. Ceres might here plant her throne, and rejoice at her success, that she hac found one spot on earth where her laws werf strictly obeyed. The barn, the granary, and the work shop were in perfect ordfer. The :.\ ti k iNEVV ENGLAND FARiMER. \TJ crc ob were in repair, and were where they jfrlit to be. The door-yard was free from iii- imhrances. Not a chip was out of place. he parlor of the ho^tye, whose walls and floor made of well prepared granite, was neat h for the study, or ollice of any profes- oiuil gentleman in the county. The house id the good order of the house, completed the St. m of neatness and correct management. The farm of Mr. John Fairfield, of New-Bos- m, is "situated on the east side of a large hill, 111 is naturally rough and rocky. The acre, hirh he selected tor Potatoes, was a light m1. The crop was luxuriant, and the Coni- iliee awarded him the first premium. His li.r crops appeared very well ; and his farm, i.uijh generally hard and rocky, gave evidence f imlustry and good mansgement. DoclorMatthias Spalding, of Amherst, enter- lliisnameasa competitor on Wheat, Indian oni, and English Turnips. His Wheat had illVrod by the drought, was harvested, and the ommiltcc could not examine it. His field of lilumCorn, containing about three acres, was :rv good. The soil was warm, and light, and ell cultivated. The crop was entitled to spe- al notice ; but the excellence of other Corn •ops prevented it from receiving a premium. is English Turnips were in a flourishing con- iion, and promised a large crop. For this rofluct he was considered entitled to a pre- lium. His farm is small, and the principal part of it naturally hard. When he made his purchase. nch of his land was in a rude, and almost un- iltivated condition. But by taking out the ones and making enclosures with good stone alls ; by taking up piece after piece, and giv- af each a thorough cultivation, he has made a rze proportion of his farm like a garden. He 1= proved that the science of Agriculture is laiited to practice ; that hard land may be ade soft ; that poor land may be made rich ; id that an unfruitful soil may be made produc- 10. His general method of husbandry im- •ovcs his land, while it improves his crops. The farm of Timothy Danforth, Esq. of Am- ;rst, is made up of various soils. His land ly- g on the Souhegan is very rich and fertile. — is back lands are light and dry. A part of his idian corn and a part of his oats are very r,\\y. His field of Potatoes were very good. is HuT.\ Baga, growing on nearly half an acre, ;ry flourishing, and promised a valuable crop, he Committee saw fit to honor these with a reinium. His method of culture is improving is farm and making it more profitable. The Committee, as they were passing from mlierst to Wilton, called on the Minister of ilford. After having made the usual exami itions, they awarded him a premium for Peas id Bf.ans. They next examined the crops of Capt. Wm. amsdell. His farm lies in Milford, bordering p the Souhegan river. He has a large tract of aluable intervale ; a good proportion of ara le land ; and the remainder, pasturage and oodland. The farm contains a variety of soil, hich is adapted to a variety of products, which e for the convenience of a faniily and for the iterest of a farmer. His Wheat, in the fore art ot the season, was very luxuriant, and romised a first rate crop ; but growing on arm land, it was greatly injured by the early drought. His Oats, not offiered for a premium, were equal to any that were examined. His field of I.vDiAN CoR-v, growing on light, warm land, was extraordinary for that quality of soil ; and be was awarded the second premium. His farm is managed with great neatness and good judgment ; and every thing about him denotes that he is going ahead. The farm of Mr. James Dascomb, of Wilton, is rough, hard, and rocky. It would require an iron constitution, and a resolution, not to be bro- ken or bent, to live upon it. On the eastern declivity of his farm, he has a field of Indian Corn, containing four acres. The soil is as strong as stones can make it. It appears as if the pavements of nature were broken up. — Amidst this seeming wreck of rock?, the Corn is of uncommon size. Though the hills were made at a usual distance from each other, the Corn was so thick that it was difficult to walk among it. There were stalks more than 10 1-2 feet in height, and well eared. The Committee were pleased to award him the first premium ; and they could only regret that it was no larger. The Committee went next to Mr. Oliver Whi- ting's, of Wilton. There they examined a field of Barlev, containing five acres. It was a fine crop. It was estimated that it would yield -10 or 15 bushels per acre. It far exceeded any other Barley crop, which was offered. The premium was awarded to him. His farm contains more than 700 acres of land. Though he is a man of but little more than 40 years of age, he has ac- quired the principal part of it by hard labor and good management. The foregoing awards were made after the Committee had examined the products of all the competitors ; and they were made according to the best of their judgment ; and generally with unanimity. Though each competitor did not excel in every thing ; yet they all excelled in something, and no one has the mortification to have his hopes blasted.nor his ambition checked. The Committee are decidedly of opinion, that the present method of awarding premiums on Agricultural products is wisely chosen, and that it will promote the great object of our So- ciety. There is an equal chance for all ; and the members will cease to fear to strive, when they find that there is no injury attending a de- feat. The task, which the Committee has perform- ed, though laborious, and at a season somewhat inconvenient, was a pleasant and improving one. The hospitality of a farmer's board, drawn from the resources of his own soil, was calculated to gratify the taste of men, who had a relish for a farmer's life. The committee were not unobserving travel- lers as they passed from town to town. They noticed the farms, which lay within their view, and their distinguishing peculiarities. Many were excellent ; and generally they were con- sidered to be in an improving condition. It was with painful anxiety the Canada Thistle was observed on the sides of roads upon the high lands, and upon the banks of streams, lest that winged evil should visit and afBict this part of the county. Here and there a bush thrust itself through a breach in the fence ; now and then an old hat or a bundle of rags looked con- temptuously through a broken pane of a win- dow, and by their looks hinted as if they would appear in our Best legislature, and raise tbeir voice against the existence of Societies, which were established to destroy their rights and privileges. The most prominent defect, which was ob- served among the fumers, was their neglect of making Manure. With a very few exceptions, they did not appear to make any more than what they could not easily avoid making. Till this defect is remedied ; till manure is consider- ed the basis of good husbandry, Agriculture will keep far behind th<' other art.«. All which is respectfully submitted by your Committee. HUMPHREY MOORE,/or/;ic Ccmmittee. September 2-1, 1822. From the London Farmers' Journal. On the comparative merits of the Improved Short- Iloriis and Hereford Cattle. ■Horsford Hall, near Leeds, Sept. ^6, 1822. Sir, I have for a long time had an anxious wish to examine the question which has so much occu- pied the minds of agriculturists — IVhether the preference is to be given to the best Hereford Cat- tle or to the Improved Short-Horns ? For this purpose, I last year made a tour into the north of England, and am now just returned from a similar journey of (we hundred miles through Herefordshire and the adjoining coun- ties. Nothing short of personal examination of the animals in their respective districts, and in their natural state, could give aie the means of forming an opinion satisfactory to myself; wheth- er it may be satisfactory to your readers may, perhaps be doubted ; but if I give it with impar- tiality, it will, I hope, receive candid attention, and not be commented upon with too great se verity. The animals designated by the title ef /;«- proved Short-horns arc few in number, and they are widely ditfused, as they have obtained high prices, and have been carried into various ])la- ces to ornament many stocks. They have soft, silky, and mossy hair, and are very rich and mel- low handlers ; handsome and gay in color ; ele- gant in shape, large frames on very short and small bone ; level and complete in all their points, and take on fat rapidly. They give a moderate-quantity of milk, and do not propagate freely ; they attain maturity at a very early pe- riod of life, and on this account, as well as from the extreme laziness of their dispositions, they are quite unfit for any labor. The Herefords are more equal as a class than the improved Short-horns. Their off'al is equal- ly fine, many of them handle well, and have a very good quality of meat. They give very little tRilk, but breed well, and arc hardy and healthy. Their color is not attractive, their dispositions are much less placid, their skins thicker and more terse ; they, therefore, take on fat less freely, especially at an early age ; they do not attain so great a stature in the same number of months, and have never at any peri- od, but particularly in youth, that perfect sym- metry which distinguishes the Short-horns. Their hind quarters are very frequently coarse and short ; their rumps low, their heads fleshy and heavy, and their breasts scanty and defec- tive ; but Jheir shoulders are almost uniformly fine ; their neck veins full, their flanks in some few instances good, and tbeir twists generally excellent. I found a vast number with flat sidet. in rs£\V ENGLAND FARMER. very few with wide hips, and the hair of almost all was very short and harsh. These, Sir, appoar to tne, upon a careful ex- amination, to he the distinctions betiveen the two rival breeds. I need scarcely add that I think there is a decided superiority in the Short- horns. I have every reason to believe that on the same food, and in the same relative circumstan- ces, the Short-horns would he as good at two years old, as the Horefords arc at three. If, however, half a dozen of each were committed to the care of the same per.«on, and brought up precisely in the same manner, the result would be highly intercstin";; and if they were hroug-ht up here, I would give the Herefonls their food for nothing, if they were the conquerors. I am well aware that without such a trial, there will continue to be a great ditference of opinion on this question; hut as my object is truth and usefulness, and not fallacy and contro- versy, I submit my remarks with every defer- ence, to the judgment of your readers, not be- ing at all anxious to enter into any defence of the opinion i have formed, if it can be proved to be erroneous, as 1 had no other wish to grat- ify, or purpose to serve, in making tins laborious and extended survey of the two breed*, and in now informingyou of the result^ tlnin a desire to promote the interest of agriculture. In the mean time, till the experiment is fairly tried, I must remind your readers tii.it the com- parison is not between the excellent breed of Hercl'ordshire and the wretched cattle with ihnrt-korns, which fmd their way, very undeserv- edly, into many parts of the south, but between the best Herefords and that select and valuable breed to which the name of Improved Short-horns ought to be exclusively applied. I am your's, very respectfully, JAMES ARMITAGE RHODES. From the nulTalo Patriot, Nov. 26. SatcUitcs of Venus. — The following singular property ofthe plain Mirror, is new it is believ- ed, to the philosophical world. It was acci- dentally discovered by a gentleman a few morn- ings since, and as the subject m.iy excite much .speculation, we give his account of it in his own words. — " Sitting this morning, about gun- lire, with my back to the East, the window be- ing open, and Venus shining brightly into the room. I was surprised to observe two Satellites close to tliat planet reflected in the mirror which the bearer was holding before me. I turned round immediately and looked at Venus steadily with the naked eye but could not dis- cern tliem. Again I looked into the mirror with the same success, i then tried another mirror, supposing that the appearance arose from some tlcl'ect in the glass ; but still the two luminous specks, like stars of the sixth magnitude were distinctly visible. If the exi-n-5nated with these gases it supplies food to li.'^ in great abundance. If we pour water on a l,|i ol' stable or cow dung in a state of fermentation, i.ows out at the bottom altered in its color, taste and ^;n. It becomes impregnated with new substances 1 irli it has gathered m its passage through the dung I , and holds in solution the results of the decompo- ; on ; and if it be deeply black and putrid it is a ccr- t 1 indication of its teing entirely saturated. To suf- -. therefore, to run oiT without any care orlrou- ruost culpable mismanagement, and a flagrant :on of the soundest maxims of rural economy. putrescent stream is the very essence of manure, ;1 -liould either be scrupulously confined within the "Ithe dung hill, or conveyed to fresh earth that . impart its nutritive qualities." use of water as an absorbent and solvent for : L-, is well understood in Europe. " The farmers : --. itzerland consider liquid manure as the most effi- I inis of any, and thence, after the dung is ferment- ' til' y dilute it in water, and the liquid alone is car- : 1 tii the field, and scattered over it. The earth im- 1 !,ately imbibes the liquid, which soon reaches the 1 '.< of the plants, and causes a rapid vegetation ; 1 trras it is a long time before dung, in a solid state, 1 iii/.es the soil. The straw that remaius, after the 1 V? is thus washed, is applied as manure for pota- ts."* r water is capab'* of holding the finest and most 1 litious particles of manure in solution, it must be a ■1 y wasteful practice to suffer manure heaps to be \ hod by every shower, and the draining^ to be con- f ted into the highways, to flow into a neighboring 1 ">!:, or what is equally, and in some instances more ( iniicial to the interest of the farmer, to make a part ^: In,- land so rich as to be unproductive, or at most to > d little but rank weeds, and perhaps grass which 1 r' s before it is half grown, and is wholly or at least J. ially rotten before it is ripe. fhnts as to the Agricultural Statfs of the J^^thcr- h, ;)ii?e 67. Lord Kaimts likewise recommendtd id manure. (to be continoed.) EVERLASTING PEA, Lalhyrus latifolius. . person living, it is believed, in the State of New 1 k, some time since advertised a quantity of t Everlasting Pea, for sale. A small quantity of said f " are wanted by a gentleman in Boston for seed. 'J r might be forwarded to the care of the Editor of t New England Earmer, Rogers' Buildings. Congress » ft, Boston, or to so.me other person in Boston, at the o on of the owner. Information, slating where those p * may be had, the price, and readiest mode of con- V ing them to Boston, would confer a great favor. If tl Editor of the Plough Boy would be so good as to t notirc of this request, and make it the subject of » iragraph in his useful paper, he would very much • ge The Editor of the N. E. Farmer. FARMER SUMMARY OF NEWS. conlirm.d. It appeared that 15,000 men had been land- ed at Napoli de Romania from the Turkish fleet, which army was suusequently taken and destroyed. Great processions, Hasting, toasting and other simi- lar displays of patriotism have been exhibited in Eng- land on account of Mr. Hunt's liberatiou from pri-on. "here are rumors respecting some difficulties and di."agreemtnts among Ihr principalities and powers, wh.i) compose the Congress at Verona ; and something is irilimatjd at Paris relative to the Emperor Alexan- der's rrturning to his own empire sooner than was anticipated. But these reports have a questionable shape. The Spanish General MoriUo has been arrested by the Constitutional party, and conducted, under a strong guard, to I'l.acentia. Canova, the celebrated sculptor, died at Venice on the IJth of October, alter a short illness. If we may believe an official account of General Mo- rales, the Colombian army had sullVred a very disas- trous defeat near Carabuya, on the loth November. — I he following is an extract from thv official bulletin, which announces ilie battle and its results : — " At 11 o'clock, at the distance of about a quarter of a league from this point, the enemy offered us battle, in number 200 infantry, and 100 cavalry, all veteran troops ol the battalions «f Bovaca, Wompos^ .Antioquita, and 4 companies of Carthagenia. They commenced their firt- by skirmishing, besides their columns en masse, which gallantly charged ours, and at less than 400 pa- ces, our troops charged with the bayonet, and in spite of the horrible fire of the enemy they charged them with extraordinary derision, valor and enthusiasm. Allho' the shocks were bloody and the resiftance great, the rebels were surrounded and completely dispersed, leav- ing in our hands about 1000 muskets, 800 prisoners, with t;6 officers, 100 dead and 160 wounded, two col- ors and warlike stores. There has also remained in niir possession, all the baggage of the enemy, from its chief, to that of the last soldier. — In the midst of so complete a victory, and which will always redound so honorably to our arms, we have to lament the loss of the prudent and brave Col. Don Eeon Vtorbe, chief of thestaffof the army, and the gallant commandant ol the battalion of Chasseurs, Gen. Don Josef Gomes del ■','orcQ, with 10 officers, 46 soldiers, and 70 wounded. ■' Tor myself, observes the general, I am well, altho' two balls were fired at me by two villains, after tliey had surrendered, (but vhich only injured my clothes,) and whom, nevertheless, 1 suffered to live." No official intelligence has been received, relative to llie proceeding of the Congress of Verona, but the Juur- niil des Debates has published an article apparently from authority, in which it was stated, that Alexander had announced to the Congress of Verona, his intention of entirely changing his system with regard to Turkey, and of employing forcible means to compel at last the barbarous government of Constantinople to make con- cessions. ONGRESS. — Nothing of great general interest has y been transacted by this body. Private petitions. n Ives in their incipient stages, and calls on different A artments for information, have occupied almost ex- <1 ively the attention of both Houses. They appear ,: tt e getting their tools in order, and will probably go ,. ft"ork as soon as the Christmas holidays are over. I vessel arrived at New York on the 23d inst. brought Idon papers to the fitb and Liverpool to the 8th of lember. The accounts of the Greek yjctories are News has lately been received from the African Col- onization Society's new settlement, which is of a favor- able nature. The name of this place is Liberia, it is situated on the South West Coast of Africa, near Mes- cnrada. The place is found to be healthy, the colo- nists contented and prosperous, and a vessel is expect- ed to sail soon, to add to their numbers, and furnish fresh supplies. The Hon. Dixon HalL, a Member of the Senate of Connecticut, was lately deprived of life in a most dis- tressing manner. Being at his Factory, in Sterling, f'onn. he observed a derangement in a band of one of thelarge drums, connected with the main shaft, and, with the intention of rectifying it, .applied his hand, which was caught between the band and drum. His body was drawn with irresistible violence through an opening often inches in diameter, crushing the bones, and instantly depriving him of lite. .4 Challenge. — A " Vermont Yankee" has published a challenge to run a horse which is owned in Vermont, against any in Virginia for $5000. " A Horse ! a horse ! my Kingdom for a horse I" Several women have lost property in Philadelphia, in consequence of their reticules being snatched from them by robbers in the streets. (luebec. — 585 vessels arrived at Quebec the past aea- jon, bringing 10,471 emigrants. The Rev. Dr. Allen, President of Bowdoin ColUge, has now in type a work on Shipwrecks, comprising about 350 pages octavo, for the benevolent purpose of distribution among mariners. Two thousand dollars have been subscribed in this city for the benefit of tlir family of the brave Lt. Allin, who was killed by the jiiratts. Two lads, sons of Major C. Leppit, one aged about 12 years, the other 6, in sliding dew ii a hill in Jewell's City, (Con.) both .seated on the same sU d, were car- ried into the ice of an adjacent river, which gave way. ^ The eldest eaught his brother by one arm, swam to the edge of the ice, and placed him on it by a gr< at effort. I hey were both rescued by a person in the niighbor- hood, who was attracted, by their cries, to the spot. The Hartford Times states that a cabbage head was raised in East Granville, Mass. the past s(ason, wliieh measured, after all the loose leaves were taken from it, three feet 5 1-2 inches iu circumference, and an apple, which weighed one pound 7 ounces. Amcricun Wine. — A gentleman near Georgetown, (U. C.) has planted a small vineyard of about 5 acres. '! be vines are planted in rows, 12 feet apart, and 5 feet distant in the rows. Only one acre has begun to bear, and that produced about 390 gallons of wine the past season. A bushel of clusters of grapes yields 3 gallons of juice, and 3 vines produce, on an average, a littli* short of a bushel of clusters. 1 hese \ ines were put in- to a nursery in 1819, transplanted where they now stand in 1S20, and began to bear in 1822. Mr. Jonathan Smith, of this town, killed a swine last week, which he procured in April last from Captain .Northey's farm in Boxford, xind which then v/eigheel about 30 lbs. ; when killeel, it was just ten mouths old, and wcigh£d.353 lbs. — SaUm Gazelle. An attempt was made to rob the mail on the 13th inst. near Petersburg, in Virginia. Logs were placed in the road so as to stop the stage, and three men made their appearance, one of whom presented a double bar- reled gun at the driver, calling upon liim to deliver the mail, which the driver promised to do on condition of his life being spared. The driver caught the gun, and as the robber struggled to draw it back, struck him with a whip in the face, and by putting his horses to full speed, saved the mail. ■ Gnat Dealings. .~A letter has been received from the acting Governor of the State of Ohio, directed to the Governor of the State of Pennsylvania, containing an offer from the former to exchange a n.ap of Ohio for a map of Pennsyh ania. The letter of the Ohio Gov- ernor caused a good deal of laughte-r in Ibe House of Representatives on account of the triCir.g and trafEc- ing nature of the prOjKisition. Government has purchased for S5,000 dollars, a steam-boat, which plies between Washington and Nor- folk, to be employed against pirates. The Dwelling House of Mr. Levi Scott, in Machias, with all his provisions, and most of his clothing and furniture, were destroyed by fire on the 7th inst. William Berry, an American, was lately stabbed in the thigli by a Spaniard, at a house of ill fame in New- beni, N. C. in such a manner that he survived but a short time. A fire bro'Ke out on the evening of the 15th inst. in Philadelphia, on Elintham's-wharf, between Race and Vine Streets, which destroyed I wo block-maker's shops, a cooper's shop, and some other buildings, when its progress was arrested by the activity of the firemen. Slate J\Ioral Society. — At a convention of delegates from several moral societies in the state of JN'ew-\ork, held in the city of Albany, the 16th January, 1822, l.>il- vid Burhans, Esq. of the town of Be thlehem, Elisha Putnam, of the city of Albany, William Aikiu, of Ibe town of Greenbush, Rev. Thomas HoUiday, of New Scotland, John L. Viele, Esq. of the village of Waterfeird, John Lintklaen, Esq. of Cazenovia. and Jacob Ilees, Esq. of Canajoharie, were appointed a standing committeeibr the ensuing year. It was moreover resolved, that another convention be called, to meet in the city of Albany, on the last Wed- nesday of January,*! 823 : that the standing committee be directed to make the arrangements for the same : that the Rev. Thomas Holliday be requested to deliver the sermon before said convention ; and that the Rev. Elisha Yale, of Kingsborough, in the county of Mont- gomery, be appointed his substitute.— ^J/iarij/ Da. AdXj U l76 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. BY T. C. FESSE.VDEN. '/Ditre it nothing heller for a mnn than that he should eat and drink, and enjoy good in his labor. Keel, ii, 24. Willi Hiankfiil heart to cat and drink, Be happy while you can, And reap the produce of your toil. Is God's behest to man. And he who thankfully enjoys Each boon, which life affords, With scant subsistence is more blest Than misers with their hoards. For only what we rightly use Is really our own ; The rest is yielded to the winds. Or left to heirs unknown. Vet many a miser makes himself A wretched guilty slave*, Althoug:h he cannot tell for whom He toils and plays the knave. Roth soul and body he devotes To Mammon and to care, And gains alone the paltry post Of steward to his heir. To give some graceless wretch a chance '.♦ To dissipate his pelf. He plots and labors till he brings Damnation ou himself. With temperance then to eat and drink,' Be happy while you can ; Enjoy the produce of your toil. Is Heaven's behest to man. A man is alivays in a hurry to defend his weak side ; and it is in some degree pleading guilty to be over hasty and solicitous in making a 'fifence. A man who is prouJ of his property will sometimes call himself poor that you may sooth his vanity by contradicting hiro. A great beau- ty, liicewise, will pretend to believe that she makes an ordinary appearance, and " In hopes of contradiction, oft will saj-, " Methinks I look most dreadfully to day." The most effectual way to mortify such persons is to pretend to believe them, and to acknowl- odge that there is some truth in their assertions. When plerisurc is a man's chief object, disap- pointment and vexation are his principal ac(jui- sitions. Intcr^als of las«itude will occur, wliich inflict punishment more heavy than justice would impose on the vilest criminal. Some men in pursuit of pleasure despatch the senses, which arc the only inlet.s to the enjoy- ments they are in quest of. They roar bacha- nalian songs till deaf, smoke till blind, and drink till they have almost as little sensation as the clods of the valley. " In wild excels the vulgar breast takes fire, 'Till buried iu debauch the bliss expire." If a despot should order men to punish them- selves in that way lie would justly be deemed a most terrible tyrant. Those who in confidence of saperior capaci- ties or attainments, disregard the common max- ims of life, should remember tliat nothing can atone for the want of prudence ; that negligence and irregularity, long continued, will make know- ledge useless, wit ridiculous, and genius con- temptible. From the Albany Daily Advertiser. Geological survey. — The geological and agri- cultural survey of the Erie Canal route, under- taken under the patronage of the Hon. Stephen Van Rensselaer, having excited considerable expectation, it may be gratifying to our readers to learn the following particulars : — The geological outline, proposed to be taken this season, has been attempted with some suc- cess. But the heavy and long continued rains, prevented Professor Eaton, and his assistants from proceeding any farther than Rochester. So far they traced the connected series of rock for- mation with the primitive rocks of New Eng- land. Excepting that the rocks constituting the Little Falls, and the Great and Little Noses, present such abrupt protrusions of a primitive stratum into a secondary district, that these lo- calities require renewed and very particular examination. The examination of the route, through to Lake Erie, will be made with particular care, during the next season. We believe the result of this survey is to be published in two parts : the first part (in about a year) will contain the geological part, embracing all the interesting mineralogical localities ; together with those rules for ascertaining the true indications of the useful minerals, which arc deduced from the exjierience and observatio'ns of distinguished geologists and miners. The second part (to be published in about two years) will contain the agricultural part. It will embrace a digest of all the experience which can be collected from the best practical farmers of the west. Also, complete analyses of all the varieties of soil, with their particular requisites, defects and ex- cellencies. The indigenous plants along the whole route, will be carefully analyzed, and their scientific, as well as comrrKin English names will be given ; together with the gener- al qualities of each. A small pamphlet will soon be published, copies of which will be distributed along the route, giving particular directions to those who may feel disposed to lend their assistance in aid of those practical sciences, which have a direct influence upon the well being of every indi\ id- ual in the comtiiunity. The remarkable exemption of the steam ship Robert Fulton from sickness, notwithstanding lier frequent passage to and from New Orleans, liavsna, and New York, is to be ascribed prni- cipalty to the smoke, or the acid of smoke, called in chemical language the pyroligneuus acid. The elhcacy of smoke in destroying con- tagion hs9 been tested on various occasions, particularly by Dr. Lind, who had a long and extensive experience on shipboard in tropical climates. The unusual healthiness of the crow of Capt. Cook, in the barque Entleavor, in her voyage round the world, may be brought as another instance of the salutary eflect of smoke in the prevention of disease. During this voyage through various latitudes both of the fri- gid and torrid zone, out of a comi)any of more than 120, and during a three years cruize, there were only four deaths, three of which were from accidents, and the other from con- sumption of the lungs. It was the frequent practice of ('apt. Cook to kindle a fire in the well, at the bottom of the hold. In this way, the sraokc penetrated every part of the hold of the vessel, and the foul air being at this tim rarified by the heat, was expelled in a grej degree, and that which remained was purifie by the action of the smoke, or the pyroligneot acid. Numerous instances might be adduced i illustration of this subject ; but, as newspape essays require to be short, what has Leen sai may be sutficient. The writer, at some othe time, will take occasion to show the eflicacy ( growing trees and vegetation of all kinds as preventive against summer and autumn disease: and will also point out the economy of natur in balancing the antidote to the bane of huma life. — Caha'^'ba Press. That milk is often adulterated, or dilute with water, before it is delivered to customer wc believe there is no doubt. Indeed, we hav been well informed that there are persons wh binj to sell again., and who sell at the same prit for -j:hich they buy ; relying for iheir profit upo the quantity of tcatcr which they can sell wit it. It is an easy matter, however, for ever consumer to ascertain whether he is impose upon by adulterated milk : put a tumbler fu in a situation exposed to the atmosphere ; i milk and water freeze at diflerent temperature they will therefore separate in the act of free; ing, and the quantity of each can easily be a certained. — JV. Y. Spectator. Bread. — The following important improvi mnnt in the composition of bread, the essenfi. staff of life, deserves the attention of the con munity. It has lately been introduced into a r spectable family in this city, and is pronounce superior to an}' other. Independent of a gre saving, the bread is spung}', light and remar! ably sweet. 1st. Take equal quantities ■ moalj' potatoes and superfine flour. — 2d. Pc and boil them, using the same water to ma( them in ; which should be done as fine as flou — 3d. Add, (for three common loaves,) a tab spoonful of fine salt, and sufficient yeast. — 4t Mix the bread, and let it rise : bake it aboi one hour gradually. — Albany paper. Sun Fish. — A fish of this rather nncommo species was caught, about a month ago, on tl north of Shetland, and has been brought hom by Captain W'ilkinson, of the Greenland sbi Mary Frances, of Hull. This fish, according i Dr. Shaw, is a native of the European seas, ai from the singularity of its aspect, has long sine attracted the particular observations of natura isls. Its general appearance rather represei the head oi'some large fish, than a complete imal, the body being short, and terminating a1 ruptly on the hind part its skin is rough, an it is supposed to feed principally upon she fish. During the night it exhibits a high d( gree of phosphoric splendor, from which, an its almost circular form, it has probably derii ed its name. The present specimen is aboi three feet four inches in length, and about tw feet broad ; — and its head bears no very distaf resemblance to the countenance of an old mn in a state of frightful distortion. This fish sometimes observed to lie on its side, upon tli surface of the water, and when taken it was i this situation. In the northern seas it is said t arrive to a vast size, and to have been found or 10 feet in length, and of the weight of 50 pounds, — London paprr. NEW ENGLAND FARMER "iihli-hcid every Saturday, by THOMAS W. SHF.PAIU), Rogers' Building:, Congress Street, Doston ; at $'3.5(1 per ann. in advance, or J;3,00 at die close ol' llu yeai • Vol. I. BOSTON, SATURDAY, JANUARY 4, 182.3. No. 2.3. DISEASES OF CATTLE. SELECTED AND COMPILED FROM THE BEST AUTHORS, BY THE EDITOR. Catarrh, or Cold ; Epidemical Cold ; Distemper. Colds are very common, particularly in 'vet ; or cold weather ; and though they are often thou2;ht of too little importance to require par- ticitlar attention, yet, by neglectina: them, and suflering- the animal to continue exposed to the weather, the most serious consequences may ensue. From such neglect we often find that the animal decays in tlesh and strength, becomes hide bound, and has a rough staring coat ; at length tubercles Ibrm in the lungs, the mesen- teric glantls become enlarged, obstructing the passage by which nutriment is conveyed to the blood : this is succeeded by atrophy, consump- tion and death. It is highly important, there- fore, to attend to this disorder as soon as it is discovered ; and it is asserted that more good may be done by nursing, placing the animal in a warm situation, giving him warm, nourishing fluids, such as gruel, infusions of malt, &,c. than from any medical prescriptions. Colds are, at some seasons, so prevalent, as to be considered epidemic and infectious. On »uch occasions they generally occur with great violence, and are accompanied by fever, and, joon after the attack, by considerable debility. On the first attack, the animal appears dull md languid ; the eyes are watery, and, some- imes, partially closed ; the appetite is dimin- '.shed ; and, most commonly, it is attended with ;ough. Swellings under or below the cars, lifliculty in swallowing, and a discbarge from he nostrils are not unusual symptoms of it(o' :omplaint. When catarrh prevails to this de- Tee, it is generally named injluenza, or distem- ler, and has been thought contagious ; but this jpinion has not been proved to be true. With respect to the treatment of this disease Dr. White observes that the hot stimulating drenches, commonly recommended, are decid- edly improper. Bleeding at the commencement of colds is generally proper; the only circum- stance which indicates its impropriety, is con- siderable weakness and low condition. The quantity of blood taken should seldom exceed two quarts. If the animal is costive, give a laxative drink ; but if he purges or scours, give the following powder in gruel : Powdered ginger - 3 dr. Antimonial powder - 2 dr. Camphor - • H *^''- Tincture of opium - | oz. To be repeated after eight or ten hours, should it be necessary. If there be any difficulty in swallowing, and particularly if it be considera- ble, the following liniment should be rubbed about the throat : Take of oil of turpentine and any common oil, of each - - - 1 oz. liquid ammonia, commonly called spirit of s^l ammoniac - - 4 oz. Mix. In common colds, however, says Dr. White, " I am inclined to believe that if the animal were placed in a comt'ortable situation, and well attended to, medicine would be unnecessary. Even bleeding, in common slight colds, is sel- dom required ; but should the animal, by a change of situation, become hot and fevcrisli, should the eyes look red and the tlanks move quickly, he should be bled freely ; and if in any degree costive, the laxative [hereafter mention- ed] should be given. AVhen there are no fever- ish symptoms present the laxative should be mixed with some cordial medicine, such as an ounce of caraway seeds, and 3 or 4 drachms of ginger. " When the influenza, or distemper, has not been attended to, or has been improperly treat- ed at an early period, the animal becomes ex- tremely weak, and every means must be em- ployed to recruit his strength. On such occa- sions a tonic [such as the first mentioned pre- scription] may be given twice or three times a day, which in conjunction with a warm nour- ishing diet, and careful attendance, m.ny ulti- mately eflect a recover}-. If the animal should become costive, a mild laxative will be proper; about half a dose will be sufficient. If grass can be conveniently pro- cured, when the animal is kept under cover a moderate quantity will be useful. In favorable weather, the field is the best place ; but a shel- tered and warm situation should be chosen. LAXATIVE. Sulphate of soda (glaubcr's salt) 1 lb. Gruel - - - 1 qt. Powdered caraway seeds 1 oz. Mix, for one dose. Whenever the dise.ise appears to be epidem- ic, prevcniive njeans should be adopted, which is more particularly necessary when rain and cold winds prevail. Catarrh or cold is often an insidious com])laint, and, if neglected, may pro- duce very serious consequences. Whenever caraway or any of the aromatic seeds are employed, they should not be pur- chased in powder, as they do not keep well in this form. Mr. Lawrence observes that " The influenza or epidemic cold arises from frequent changes of the air, and the prevalence of north-east and easterly winds. As a great number, whether of men or animals, may be seized with this species of catarrh, at the same time and tor the same cause, it has been supposed contagious, which indeed, may probably be the case in its invet- erate and ])utrid state. This disorder is most prevalent in the spring, which succeeds a mild winter, when particular care should be taken that cattle are not exposed to currents of air from the north-east. I have known a whole fold-yard of oxen, horses and cows, dangerously affected in one night." Mr. Lawrence advises "if the animal shivers wi'.h cold, and has cold breath, give a quart of warm ale.* in which is infused a table spoonful of grated ginger, two of spirit of hartshorn, and one of laudanum, repeating it in six hours, if the chilly symptoms continue, allowing warm water and a deep bed of straw. If feverish heat * Ceer or warm watej: would answer probably as well comes on, give nitre in warm water; when fever bocotncs predominant, bleed two quarts, unless the animal be a milch-cow, which never ought, to be'Viled but in extreme nece.ssity, and one ounce of cream of tartar, in three pints of warm grueli_ sweetened witli honey or treacle, [molasses.] On recovery of tlie beast, accus- tom it to the air by degrees, and notwithstand- ing having been nursed in the house, it will again become equally hardy ns betbre." Peripneiunoi"j, Plcurisi/, or Injlammation of the Lungs. This disease most commonly occurs to work- ing cattle from over exertion, or from being suffered to drink largely of cold water, immedi- ately after working hard, and when in a stale of perspiration. Its .symptoms are shivering; loss of ajipetite ; an appearance of anxiety or depression; an increased motion of the flanks, or quickness of breathing; cough ; opening the mouth ; a discharge from the mouth and nose of a glutinous nature ; the inside of the nose rod ; eyes dull; pulse hard; mouth harsh and dry ; skin stiff; cold extremities ; body full as if swelled with herbage ; holds its head low and moves with dift'iculty ; costive ; on lifting the upper eye lid its under surface will be Ibund unusually red, sometimes approaching to orange. If the disease happens to a milch cow, she soon looses her milk ; and the cars, legs and horns are generally cold. Dr. White says, " early breeding is the grannt kind ; and it is from this er- That Payson Williams, Esq. of Filchburg, is entitled to the society's premium of §30, for having raised the greatest quantity of Spring Wlieat, being 23 bushels and 28-32 of a bushel, on one acre. '• In the spring of 1022, as early as the frost would permit, the ground was plough- ed, and harrowed ; the seed, two and a half bushels of the Gilman wheat, sown ; again har- rowed, and ploughed in fine, with a horse plough, ror perhaps, that strong stimulating medicines land left in this situation with the belief that have been recommended on such occasions. — the crop would endure our New England drought There is an allection of the lungs and parts | better, as the surface would be enlarged, there connected with them, whicli will not admit of ■ he copious bleeding 1 ha\e recommended ; but the symptoms arc widely dilVereiit. There is net that dilRculty and quickness in breathing; the pulse is weak, l>ut not much quicker than by retaining more of the dews than a plane sur- face ; the result, compared with neighboring fields, declares this belief not unfounded. As the field was seeded down with clover, herds- grass, and red-top, this was also ploughed with isual; the kernels or glands, about the throat, i the wheat; these plants not only stood the are often swollen; sometimes there is consider- drought remarkably well, but at this time have j ble dilficully in swallowing, which is particu- completely covered the ground with the Far-' larly seen when the animal attempts to drink III short this is nothing more than a severe de- gree of catarrh or cold ; but, even hi this com- plaint, moderate bleeding is necessary, and pow- erful stimulants are e.\tremely pernicious. — • When the disease, however, has not heen dis- I'.overod for some days, and the animal appears much weakened by it, bleeding is cl course im- (jroper." (to be continued.) Massacliasetts Aencultui-al Society. The Conimiltec on Agricultural Experiments sutiniit for th" consideration of the Board the following', in addition to their report dated the 10th day of Octo- lier last, to wit : That Col. Joseph Valentine, of Hopkinton, is entitled to the society's premium of g30, for hav- ing raised the greatest (juantity of Indian Corn, being 119 bushels and 2G-32 of a bushel, on one .acre of land. " The soil is a deep yellow loam — ih 1C21, the land was cultivated with Indian corn, and manured with ten cart loads of green barn manure, spread on the ground, and eight loads of compost manure put in the hills. In the spring of 1822, the ground was twice ploughed, and 20 cart loads of green barn manure spread on it — it was then furrowed in rows about three feet and a half apart; and about 20 cart loads of barn, hog and slaughter yard manure, were put in the rows ; the last mentioned manure was mixed together, with one hogsliead of Smith- field lime ; the seed was the Brighton twelve rowed yellow corn, the kernels placed about 3 inches apart each way — the corn was hoed three times, all the suckers were pulled out in July; and in August all the suckers were again takeii away, together with the false stalks, and those that were smutty; on the first of September the stalks were topped ; and on the 20th the corn was harvested, and spread on a floor under (he roof of a long shed, to give a good opportu- nity for drying it — there were 213 bushels of corn in the ear; one basket of which was shell- ed, and produced half a bushel and two quarts of shelled corn ; so that had the whole been shelled on the day of harvesting it, the produce would have been ll'J bushels and 2G-32 of a bushel of shelled corn — on the 1 1th of Nov. the whole was shelled, and measured, and found to be 116 bushels and 28-32 of clear sound corn ; ♦he average weight of which was 58 to 59 lbs. the bushel — the entire expense of cultivating this acre of corn, including ,>J35, charged for -50 cart loads of manurej was ^44." mer's best carj)et. The quantity of grass-seed used by me, is never less than 12 lbs. of clover, and one peck of herds-grass, to the acre. Here permit me to observe that innumerable arc the instances in this country, where the farmer fails in his grass crops, by not allowing seed enough ; and what is worse, the little he does give with such a sparing hand, is suffered to take its chance under that pest m agriculture called a bush har- row, which not only drags stones, and other loose matter, into heaps, but leaves the soil dead and heavy ; and does not cover the seed deep enough to strive with our July drought effec- tually. It may be asked how the scythe is to follow the plough? to which I will answer, let the roller, an implement which every farmer would keep, did he consult his own interest merely, with a sufficient top or body to contain the larger stones, pass over the field lengthwise the furrow, in the dry part of the fall ; this pro- cesf will not only crush in the small ones, but even the surface for the scythe, without the least injury to the grassroots — to this digression 1 am impelled by no other motive, however much I may be mistaken, than the wish of advancing in some measure, the interests of my fellow citi- zens, whose good fortune it is to till the soil. — 1 had the wheat cut very early, when much of the straw was green, which, after laying about' two days, w.is in excellent order for the flail ; alter which it was equal to swail hay for fodder — the amount of grain by measurement was 2d bushels and 18-32, from one acre and 18 rods — the quality of the grain is excellent, not one kernel of smut or burnt grain in the crop — the seed prepared by a thorough washing, after which it was immersed in thick white wash, made tVom good lime, so as to coat over every kernel — no fears need be entertained from the plentiful use of this liquor, as by way of exper- iment I have planted wheat after its lying in this liquor tour days, which vegetated well." The committee are of opinion tiiat the roller shouhl be used immediately after the seed is ploughed in, in preference to the fall, as re- commended by Mr. Williams. Said Payson Wil- liams is also entitled to the premium of 52O, for having raised the greatest quantity of Potatoes, being 547 bushels, on one acre. " The land was twice ploughed, and furrowed three feet apart, and the manure, unfermented, made by sheep, and neat cattle, its quantity about 11 cords, placed in hills two feet apart, hands im- medjutcly following the cart with Ijoes to finish the planting process, to prevent loss by evapo- ration— |)lanting finished May 21 — the kind of seed used, was the South American reds, 28 bushels to the acre, cut so as to allow two pieces to the hill — the weeding finished the 15th of June — the secand and last hoeing the first of July, the viiles beginning to bud, and were about eight inches in height; a few scattering weeds were occasionally pulled up, but no oth- er disturbance was given to the vines till har- vesting the crop, which was finished November the .'id ; and by a careful measurement was found to be 5 17 bushels — the expense of cultivating the iicre of wheat, including ^10 charged for the manure, was ^21,71 — that of cultivating the acre of potatoes, including ^14 for manure, ;J51.''. That Mr. David Littte, of Netvbury, is enti- tled to the society's premium of ^20, tor havin»- raised the greatest quantity of Mangel Wurtzel, being 970 bushels, and one half of a bushel, on one acre. " The situation of said acre is as follows — a swell inclining south-westerly, of u rich yellow loam — in 1821, it was planted with beet>, manured with about three cords of com- post manure, and produced about 530 bushels. May 9th, 1 022, ploughed, harrowed and furrow- ed three feet apart ; t"bur and a half cords of compost manure v.crc put in the furrows and covt-ied with a plough ; then a harrow was drawn lengthwise the ridge to smooth the land, the seed was then sowed one row on each ridge, with four pounds of seed — half the quantity would I think be sufficient — June 10th, com- menced ploughing between the rows, and weed- ing, and thinning at dilTorent times till July IGth — the plants stood 10 or 12 inches apart in the rows — the work was donj principally by boys, estimating two boys to be equal to one man. — Oct. 31, Nov. 1st and 2d, they were harvested by men and boys, and produced 970 1-2 bushels o£- Mangel Wurtzel, besides 2 bushels of Carrots, and 109 Cabbages — three loads of the Mangel Wurtzel containing 137 bushels, were weighed at the town scales ; the weight, according to the certificate annexed, was 3 tons, 2 c. 3 qs. 20 lbs. — Six swine mo-tly fed with the thinnings from the beginning of weeding, until about the first of October — there are trees on the said lot suf- ficient to produce 21 barrels of fruit — the en- tire expense of cultivating this acre of Mangel Wurtzel, including the cost of the manure and gathering iha crop, was ^23 9C cents." That Mr. Ailams Knight, of Newbury, is en.!,; titled to the Society's premium of Twenty dol- j iars, for having raised the greatest quantity of Onions, being six hundred and fitty-one bushels, on one acre. " The soil is a rich gravelly loam, with a gravel bottom ; in 1821, it was cultiva- ted with onions, and cabbages; and was manur- ed with about five cords of barn manure, and produced a good crop — after the crop was off the ground, there were five cords of barn ma- nure, and two and a hall" cords of leached ashes ploughed in — in April 1822, it was once plough- ed, and sowed in rows 14 inches apart, which took between 3 and 4 pounds of seed — au the course of the season it was hoed between the rows and weeded four times — in September the onions were harvested, and there were 651 bushels — the entire expense of cultivating this acre of onions, uiclud!ng2) dollars and 37 cents, the cost of manure, was 57 dollars and 38 cents." Thiit Messrs. Trislram and Henry Little, of Newbury, are entitled to the Society's pretni- NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 17:< ■im of Twenty dollars, for having raised the i^roatest quantity of common Turnips, being 687 bushels and a half on one acre. " The soil is a .lay loam and had been down to grass C or 7 y^^ars — in 18iil, cut about one ton of hay; it was then ploua:hed as deep as the swnrd would (urn over; 10 cords of comport manure, the principal part of the compost was marsh mud, s|ircad and well harrowed ; it was ploughed in ridges three feet apart; about one pound of :;(>t.'d was sown with a machine on the ridges; — ;u)d a hand roller made to pass over them, which rompletcd the sowing— when out of the way of ihe lly, they were thinned to the distance of one fiiot "apart on the ridge — they were twice ploughed and harrowed ; and harvested the last vl October — the entire expense of cultivating this acre of Turnips, including 20 dollars for ma- nure, was 3o dollars and G2 cents."' That Silas Little, Esq. of Newbtify* is enti- tled to the Society's premium of Twenty dol- lus, for raising the greatest quantity of common I'urnips, at'ter another crop in the same season ; laving raised 61 5 bushels on one acre. " In the \car 1021, something less than a quarter part • f the .acre was cultivated with Turnips, and a- liont five common cart loads of compost manure, : icli as salt marsh pulverized, strong earth and id was laid thereon; the produce was 80 -iicls, the other three fourths had been laying grass five or sis years ; and the present year 1' sowed Flax seed, where the turnips grew (he last year; having" spread on about the same i|ii;\nlity ami quality of manure as before ; we jiiMoiI the ilax soon after the blossoms had fal- ! u off, and there was a middling crop; the oth- er part of the acre produced about "lOO weight ol hay. which was cut on the 26th of June ; and the whole was ploughed and manured — the quantity put on the acre was 19 cart loads, of 40 )"i-hcls each — the quality of this manure was -iniilar to that above described, but more sand in onler to make the compost better, when mix- ed H ith our dark clay loam, with a clay bottom ; nearly two thirds of this manure was spread on ouc half the ground, and after harrowing, was put into small ridges, with a small double mould board plough, two feet and nine inches apart; tlie other part of the manure was shovelled into furrows made with the plough, the same dis- tance ; the plough then passed between the iiirrows, covered the manure, and although ~o great a portion of the manure was spread on half the land, yet the other half produced ibont as much — the quantity of seed used was one pound and a half; the time of sowing was i'rom the tirst to the tenth of Jul}' — the flax was pulled the 4th, and that part of the ground sowed the last; the whole was sown with a ma- chine made for the purpose, and but one row on a ridge — when the turnips were up, and out of the way of flies, they were thinned with a hand hoe and lingers, at the distance ot ten or twelve inches, and afterwards twice hoed and twice ploughed, with the small plough above mention- ed— the time of harvesting, from the 28th of October to the 1st of November, and there was found to be 615 bushels, well trimmed and til for market, and about five or six bushels of large defective rotten ones — we have iveighed sever- nl bushels, and tind a bushel will weigh 59 Ibs.-^ the entire expense of cultivating this acre of turnips, includmg thirteen dollars for manure, •Mo twenty-eight dollars and seventy-fiTe cents.'" That Mr. Asa Rice, Jr. of Shrewsbury, is en- titled to the Society's premium of Twenty dol- lars, for the account of the best mode of rearing, feeiling', and fattening Neat Cattle. Said Rice is also entitled to the premium of Twenty dol- lars, for proving by experiments, to the satisfac- tion of the Trustees, the utility and comparative value of the Cobs of Indian Corn, when used with or without the grain itselt", ground, or bro- ken. Apaperonthe subject of raising Indian Corn, two successive seasons, with the aid of Plaster Paris, on a high hill on the farm of Mr. Rice, which from its dilliculty of approach, had until two years since been neglected, was also exhibited. These communications are too lengthy to be inserted in thi» ro[ioit, bui your Committee recommend that said papers, togeth- er with three very interesting communica- tions from William Hull, Esq. of Newton, on the best mode of raising Indian Corn,^^his mode of cultivating seven eighths of an acre, from which ho procured 192 bushels of Corn in the ear, 4 bushels of dry Reans and several bushels of Turnips — and on the culture of Carrots, and Ruta Baga, be copied into the Society's Jour- nal tor January next. Claims for premiums were also exhibited to your Committee by the following persons, for raising the greatest qurlritily of Indian Corn, on one acre of land, to wit ; Sir. Asa Rice, Jr. of Shrewsbury, raised 5,3 bushels ; Mr. Nathan Howe, Jr. also of Shrewsbury, 75 bushels ; Mr. Daniel Mears, of Lynn, C7i bushels ; Messrs. Tristram and Henry Little, of Newbury, 116 bushels and 9 quarts; Paysnn Williams, Esq. of Fitchburg, 1 16 bushels and 12 quarts; and Mr. Daniel Burnham, of Newburyporlj 117 bushels and 0 quarts. Mr. Jacob Wilkins^ of Marble- head, raised 57 bushels of Rurlov, on one acre and i of an acre. " April 12, 1822, the land was ploughed about G inclies deep, the soil loaiiiy, inclining to gravel, descending to the North East from a ledgy knoll, which included i\ part of the premises ; 13th, sowed three bush- els of six rowed Barlej', on what I considered the largest half of the piece — at the same time sowed one and a half bushels of two rowed Bar- ley, on the remainder ; sowed grass seed over the whole, and j)loughed, and harrowed the same in. When the six rowed Barley was a- bout six inches high, it was mowed down, and left on the ground ; this was for experiment. — July 18, mowed the six rowed Barley, and put it into the barn. 2 1th, mowed, and put into the barn, the two rowed Barley. The six rowed Barley appeared to be about 12 days forward of the two rowed in ripening — both were stacked separately in the barn ; and each quality thrash- ed and kept separate. August 30lh, the Bar- ley being cleansed, was measured — the six row- ed measured 34 bushels ; and the two rowed measured 23 bushels — the straw we consider in value to be equal to the labor." No premium was oflered for raising the greatest quantity of Barley ; but 3'our committee are induced to re- commend that the Treasurer be authorized to pay said Jacob Wilkins, the sum of Twenty dol- lars. For raising the greatest quantity of common Beets, Parsnips, Ruta Baga, Cabbages, and dr)' Peas — for introducing any Grass not before cul- tivated in this Commonwealth, and proving by actual experiment, and produce satisfactory ev- idence of its superiority in any one quality, to any now cultivated — for the most satisfactory evidence on " Sailing Cattle," not less than siv in number, and through the whole season, to gether with a particular account of the food giv- en, and how cultivaled — for making the experi- ment of turning in green crops .as a manure, on a tract not less than an acre, and prove its utili- ty and cheapness, giving a jiarlicular account of the process and its results — for proving by ac- tual ex()erJnic!it, the best season and mode of laying down land to gras;, w bother Spring, Sum-- mer or Fall seeding be pr.^lVrable, and with or without grain or dilforent soils — for raising the greatest quantity of Vogelables, Grain, Peas and Beans excepted, lor winter consumption of the stock on his own farm, and not for sale, in pro- portion 16 the size of the farm and stcck kept, having regard to the respective value of said Vegetables as food, stating the expense of nus- ing the same, and the best mode of preserving the same through the winter — for taking up in one season, on his tlirni, the greatest quantity of good Honey, an The necefsily of labor is intenvoven with the condition of man; and its resnlis are made inseparable from his very existence. Yet a- inidst the artificial arrangements of society, in which individual situalion is sj widely varied, and the immediate supports of life so differently derived, man do indeed appear to have lost sight of the first sources of subsistence, and to reg;ard with indifference, or as of subordinate concern, the only means by which, vinder Prov- idence, their lives are upheld. While enjoying the wealth which Commerce bestow?, and the honors which Learning ami Prolrr-^ional Emi- nence confer, the Art nf Husbanrlrij, and the humble employments of I^Ianual Labor, are re- garded but as of little moment. It is hardly considered that even C'onuneicc consists in an ex- change of the productions of the soil, and that the cultivation of the ground has preceded, in all ages, that state of civilization upon which Learn- ing and all the distinctions of society are found- ed. The necessity, value, and the virtue of la- bor npon earth, are as certain as all earthly ob- jects are important. Whoever doubts of this, neefflook no further for conviction than to the savage state, where man, for foot!, eats man — where letters and the arts are unpractised and unknown — and where, in the instinct of nature only, m;ui lives a rude, fierce animal, and dies unconscious of intellectual and immortal being. To vindicate the arts of Husbandry, and the pur- suits of Agriculture, can therefore neither be necessary, nor becoming the age in which we live. If civilization be a blessing, then is the agricultural state, which can alone uphold it, a primary good; — if the capacity of mind and the jiowers of intelligence constitute the superiori- ty of human nature, their exercise will furnish to every niau the highest assurance of the sources of their cultivation, and of the means, the scope, and the end of their improvement." " While, in many of the most fertile parts of nur country, the grower of the produce is either unable to make sales, or must receive the avails reduced by the charges of tedious and expen- sive transportation, and tiie commissions of con- "^ignees, agents and factors — a direct and ready di-iposition of the surplus of our farm«, most gen- erally, may be made at the very door of ll(e larmcr, or, at his election, may be carried, by bis own domestic means of conveyance, at a protita- lile advance, to a sure, (piick and not far distant market in the capital of the State. Strange, that so obvious an advantage !-hould not be more liighly appreciated ! Of what avail is it that the boasted land of the West will produce its hun- ilred-fold to labor, in comparison u'ith the stub- born soil of our home, if the use for the jiro- duct be limited by the consumption of the grow- er? Is it that there is a deticiency of that whereon to live, that the spirit of emigration has gone forth, to redeem the wilderness from the savage, and to reduce the waste to cultiva- tion ? What, though the hills are covered with verdure, and the vallies are tilled with corn — if the value be in the inverse ratio with the plen- ty, how does the abundance advance the inter- est of the cultivator ? Wherefore is it of con- sideration with him, that his garners should overflow, if the price be low, or there be no purchaser for the commodity ? Ke it. that he is spared the hard labor of tillage, is there not a counterpoise in the privations of solitude, and in the loss of the aids, and comforts, and im- provements of society? Ask the returning Em- igrant from the West or the South, which 7tuzi' he most biglily appreciates — the rough and hard, but vigorous soil of the East, with the necessity of labor to subdue and improve it, and the conveniences and pleasures of social inter- course for iiis recompense — or extent ot terri- tory, useless fertility and idleness, in a situation where neighborhood is unknown, the means for the education of children are denied, and op- portunities for moral instruction and the public worship of God unenjoyed? Again: address yourself to his calculations of interest, and de- mand of him, upon his practical experience, in which is most profit, the smaller quantities of grain, at their greater value here, or the greater abundance at the diminished prices there ? — his one bushel of corn, worth one dollar, raised for the home market here, or his six bushels to one, worth twelve and a half cents per bushel, grown for exportation there? Nor let your inquiries be thus easily satislied. Hear from him the suf- ferings to which first settlers are exposed, of the terrors of the war-hoop, and of the wild beasts" howl — learn the new and painful diseases which an unused climate generates, ami for which, with " the thousand ills which tleKli is heir to," there is no helping, healing aid at hand. Then, when thus prepared for just comparison, turn to your own situation, and say, why have you not all which in human condition should make satis- fied ? Why leave the land ofyour nativity, and of generous reward to your exertions, rather than enrich it by your industry, and endear it by your labors?" " Habit and prejudice are powerful opponents to improvement, and they are in a great mea- sure incident to the business of Agriculture. The cultivation of the earth, is a practical les- son, taught to the Husbandman in earliest lite. He is instructed in the ways of his father, and the mode which experience has approved as safe, will be reluctantly yielded to the mere promise of experiment. Hence, from genera- tion to generation, men pass on in the track of their predecessors ; believing that the path which is explored, is in the only direction to their object, and that those who deviate, wan- der to their destruction. To conquer this stub- born habit of reflection is the greatest efiort and best result of .Vgricultural Associations. In vain may the to)igue and the pen be employed to sat- isfy the practical man of the errors, which a lilo of labor has confirmed, and the experience of ages has consecrated. He is either deaf, and blind, and dumb to your appeals, or answers you in the language of distrust, and with the re- proach that the}' are theories of idle specula- tion only. But make for him the experiment, exjilain to him the method, exhibit to his uatu- lal senses the successful result — he will hesi- tatingly yield credit to ocular demonstration, and tardily follow in the footsteps of improve- ment. " Of the same pernicious tendency with con- firmed habits in the mode of husbandry, is preju- dice (or f arm, size, or co/or, over useful proper- ties, in domestic animals. Forgetting the trite saying, '■ that hiiidsome is which handsome does," (the Ladies will pardon me — this vul- gar adage is aj)plicable only to brutes,) farmers ^lii ■lo ■m Tl ilk (til (»tl t\( (Jill all Biil 5«: '.VI are too prone to consult/ancy rather than judg- inent. and to prefer the beautiful, though indif- ferent in quality, to the more valuable of ordi- \- nary appearance. This bad taste is to be ovet^ com^ by a sense of interest. When it shall be known that the form we least esteem may be best ad.ipied to laborer fatten — that the color we most dislike is the characteristic of a breed hj far the most productive to the dairy, the stand- ard of excellence will become that of profit— and the kind which is best fitted to our partica lar object will be the first sought for attain- ment. The enlightened Agriculturalists of Ea rope, with the nicest care, select their breeds for the [leculiar qualities they desire ; and so distinctly preserved are they to the use for which they are obtained, that the characteristic husbandry suited to soil and gituation in differ- ent distrxts, can bo readily determined bv passing observation of their cattle only. In this respect, we are vastly bi'hind the Farmers of England. While good animals of the ordinary race are common and cheap with them as with us, the immense jirices which they willingly pay tor the more rare and valuable breeds bear strong proof of their superior discernment, or better spirit of improvement. Happily here, also, correct opinions are becoming inllucntial, and that prejudice, or feds e economy, which has hitherto excluded from our possession the finest stork of Europe, is yielding to a generous en- terprize in its introduction, and to a liberal en- couragement of the best means of improving our own race of valuable animals. "•• One other most obvious impediment to our agricultural advancement, is of so general en- durance, 3'et so easy of corrective, that 1 must solicit your patience, while 1 briefly notice it. The use of implements of husbandry of imper- fect construction, or in bad condition, it is con- fidently believed, is a greater annual tax to the yeomanry of the country, than all the assess- ments imposed by law. The hindrance to labor in time, the greater liardship of its accom])lish- nient, and its less effectual operation, by the ■' toggl'd chain," the " rack'd carl," the " dull plough," the " toothless harrow," the brokea lioc, and spade, and rckc, anilfork, if kept in ac- curate account by each individual, would pre- sent an aggregate of loss reproachful to many, and criminal even to the most careless. Good instruments in the business of husbandry, are no loss important than in the mechanic arts ; nnd to Farmers I appeal, w hat mechanic would thejr give employment in the u^e of tools out of or- der ? or, what compensation would they mike him ior time spent to repair them ? The great advance in agricultural t^kill, within the few last years of spirited enterprize, has been attended with corresponding improvements in implements to facilitate labor; and it is as decidedly for the interest as it is lor the comfort of the husband- man, to possess those of the most thorough and approved models." I« li From the Metropolitan. PLAKTtNG OF STOJ^E FRUIT. On this subject, one pertinent fact faithfullj related, is worth forty curious conjectures, and 1 the following is such an one. On the 28th day of November, 1775, 1 removed a cherry-tree, the body of which was thicker than the calf of mv leg, and on the loth of June next following, gathered six pounds of very fine cherries from NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 181 -that is six months and fourteen days irom planting of the tree. Now, if this be an cx- jrdinarv fact, may we not set down the 28tli of November as the best day in the year for nfing cherry-trees ? The hole in which this e-ivas planted, was digg-ed about eight inches p : and a stake firmly fixed near the middle t. The tree was then bound to the stake, 80 that the roots were four inches shallower than they stood where the tree grew originally. — e earth was then thrown into the hole until vas level with the surface of the ground and mediately plentifully watered so as to carry ■earth among the roots : and then while the face was yet wet, about eight inches more rth was added, which consequently covered body of the tree so much deeper than it 3w, yet leaving the roots not so deep as they aw. Conjecture may he allowed to say, that " Let the proprietor-' of cattle renounce, for- ever, the insane folly of olToring premiums for specifics to cure incurable diseases ! and the hope of providing medicines, which, by a mi- raculous operation. Hill enable men to contin- ue in the habit of exposing their animals to the constant risque of such diseases : for example, sheep in those situations, which nature has d creed shall forever rot them. Prevention of disease is alone a grand improvement of the breed. It is a great profit ; for in case of gen- eral disease in a flock or herd, we are not only to reckon the loss of those individuals which die, with the doctor's bill, and our own servants' time and attendance, but the loss of time and thrift in the survivors, sometimes the heaviest loss. '■ Upon every farm, it is truly necessary to the well being of the cattle maintained, that there the season vegetation had entirely ceased, I be houses or sheds, sheltered yards, and spare d the buds for next year's growth were per ;tly formed, and ready to grow with the first pearance ot the spring. Young peach-trees, moved but a small distance, at the time their jssoms are just beginning to open, will somc- nes ripen their fruit the same fall ; but their owth in the next year, will not be so vigor- s as of those planted between the middle and it of November, or those planted early in the ring. The essential points in planting of jit-trees, are, that they be planted rather shal- wer than they originally grew — that they are !pt firm and steady in their places, and, that e water run from them both in the winter and the spring, rather than toward them. There one observation in an old almanac, perhaps •enty or thirty years old, that is well worth membering, because it is true, that " a free e of fine ripe fruit in this country, would on average, add seven years to the life of each :izen, in addition to the advantages of sound •alth, and the indulgence of the highest luxu- the world ever did or can afford."' T.G. FACTS AND OBSERVATIONS aELATINC TO jRlCULTURE & DOMESTIC ECONOMY. FOR THE KEW E.\GLAND FARMER. VETERINARY COLLEGES CATTLE-MEDICLNE, &.C. An English writer says "• The establishment a veterinary college has had the very useful ffectofturnmg the attention of a far greater umber than formerly, of medical men, to ve- irinary pursuits and inquiries, and, in a great leasure, to wipe a.vvay that false sense of shame, •hich many gentlemen of the faculty eutertain- d at the idea of becoming horse and cow-doc- )rs ; a most groundless prejudice in any view, arlicularly when it is considered, that men of le first raidt and fortune in the country, think .no degradation, but a useful and patriotic em- loymenl, to obtain personal and practical skill 1 the management of live stock. " The faculty of caltle-doctors, F shall hope, say be considerably improved by the addition nd presence among them, of a number of regu- sr professional men, in various parts of the ountry ; indeed whatever turn improvement Day take, the former must be generally depend- ed upon for a length of time. And in remote nd secluded parts of the country, where even he lowest practitioners are not to be found, it nrvitably results that the proprietor, or his .ervanL". mu«i fill the office of doctor to the locks and herds. inclosurcs, for the comfortable reception of the diseased. The want of such conveniences, or an indolent prejudice against the use of Ihem, is in itself a real malady, and one great cause why slight affections grow into incurable dis- eases. The proper instruments of administra- tion or operation, should also be provided, and always ready for use ; and where much cattle is kept, it would be of considerable benefit to set apart a piece of garden ground for the pro- duction of medicinal herbs, for though botanical simples are justly rated by modern practice far below their ancient character, yet infusions or decoctions of them, are excellent vehicles in cattle medicine for articles of superior efficacy, and, iu fact, as I have often experienced,some of them possess, in a considerable degree, the vir- tues attributed to them." Another writer observes — " It is well known, that uneducated farmers are fond ot mystery in medical matters ; and this very naturally, as they have always been led to believe that, for every disease, there is an infallible remedy, termed a receipt ; and the more numerous the ingredients are in that receipt, the higher opin- ion have they of its ethcacy. Upon this princi- ple, perhaps it is, that the cow-doctor, or cow- leech as he is commonly termed, generally ob- tains their confidence; while the veterinarian, who adopts a more simple mode of treatment, relying wholly, perhaps, ui)on bleeding and a proper regulation of diet, does not ajipear to them sufficiently skilful ; and any attempt he may make to explain the nature of the disease, or the principle upon which he acts, would be quite unintelligible. With respect to the quali- fications of those cow-doctors, it is unnecessary to say much, in the operative part of the art, they are useful in a certain degree." ARRANGEMENT OF AGRICUI.TIRAL LABOR, AND DO- MESTIC MANAGEMENT. " At the foundation of a proper arrangement, it is necessary to have a plan of the farm, or at least a list of "the fields or parcels of land into which it is divided, describing their productive extent, the soil, the preceding crops, the culti- vation given to each, and the species and quan- tity of manure they have, severally, received. The future treatment of each field, for a suc- cession of years, may then be resolved on with more probability of success. " With the assistance of such a list, every au- tumn, an arrangement of crops for the ensuing year, ought to bo made out; classing the fields or pieces, according to the purposes for which they arc res|ieclivoiy intended. The quantity of each crop, whether arable or meadow [plough land or mowing) as well as the extent of ground intended for pasture, will thus be ascertained. It will not then be difliciilt to anticipate what number of horses |or oxen] and laborers will be required during the season; nor the stock that will be necessary for the intended quantity of pasture land. The works of summer and har- vest will be foreseen, and \)roper hands engag- ed in due time to perform them.'"* As nothing contributes more to faciLily and satisfaction in business, than to prepare for what must be done, a farmer should arrange his plans regarding his crops, for three or four years ; regarding team labor, when frost and bad weather do not intervene, for as many months ; and regarding hand labor for as many weeks, according to the season of the year. — " A general memorandum list of business to be done," is therefore essential, that nothing may escape the memory, and that the most requisite work may be brought forward first, if suitable to the state of the weather. Id this way, the labor will go on regularly, and without confu- sion, and a proper attention and force may be applied to every part of the farm. The following rules, connected with the ar- rangement, and the successful management of a farm are particularly to be recommended. 1. '-The farmer ought to rise early, to see that others do so, and that both his example be followed and his orders obeyed. In the winter season breakfast should be taken by candle light, by this means an hour is gained, which many farmers lose by indolence ; though six hours in a week are nearly equal to the working part of a winter day. This is a material object where a number of servants are employed. 2. " The whole farm should be regularly in- spected, and not only every field examined, but every beast seen, at least once a day. On a large farm, the whole day may be well employ- ed in such essentia! duties. 3. " In a considerable farm it is of the ut- most consequence to have the servants special- ly appropriated for each of the most important departments of labor; for there is often a great loss of time, where persons are frequently changing their employments. Besides.when the division of labor is introduced, work is executed not only more expeditiously, but also much bet- ter, in consequence of the same hands being constantly employed in one particular depart- ment. For that purpose, the ploughmen ought never to be employed in manual labor, but regu- larly kept at work with their horses [or oxen,] when the weather will admit of it. 4. " To arrange the operation of ploughing according to the soils cultivated, is an object of essential importance. On many farms their are fields, which are brought to a situation unfit to be ploughed, either by much rain or by severe drought. In such cases, the prudent farmer, be- fore the wet season commences, will plough such land as is in the greatest danger of being injured by too much wet ; and before the dry period of the year sets in, such land as is in the greatest danger of being rendered unfit for ploughing by too much drought. ■"" ' " where these rules are attended to On fariM there is a'"- ' Marshall on Landed Property. t82 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. ways some land in a proper condition to be ploughed ; and there is never any necessity, either for delaying the work, or performing it improperly- b. " Every means sliould be thought of, to diminish labor, or to increase its power. For instance, by proper arrangement, live horses may do as much labor as six pcrforni, accor- ding to the usual mode of employing lliem. One horse may be employed in carting turnips dur- ing winter, or in other necessary farm work at other seasons, without the necessity of reducing the number of ploughs. In a hurried season, when driving dang from the farm yard, three carls may be used, one always filling in (he yard, another goini to the field, and a third return- ing ; the leading horse of the emjity cart ought then to be unyoked, and put to the full one. In the same manner, while one pair of horses are drilling for turnips, the other three horses may be employed in puiting the dung upon tiie land, either with t^vo or three carts, as the situation of the ground shall require. By extending the ?ame management to other farm operations, a considerable saving of labor might be effected. (i. " .\ farmer ought never to engage in a work, whether of ordinary practice, or of in- tended improvement, except after the most care- ful inquiries ; but when begun he ought to pro- ceed in it with much attention and persever- ance, until he has given it a fair trial. 7. " It is a main object in management, not to attempt too much, and never to begin a work, without a probability of being able to linish it in due season. C. " Every farmer should have a book, for inserting all those useful hints, which are so trequently occurring in conversation, in books, or in the practical management of a farm. Loose pieces of paper are apt to be mislaid or lost, and when a man wishes to avail himself of Ihem, for examining a subject previously investigated and discussed, he looses more time in searching for the memorandum, than would be sufficient for making half a dozen new ones. But ifsuch mat- ters are entered into a book, and if that book has an index, he can always tind what he wants, and his knowledge will be in a progressive state of improvement, as he will thus be enabled to derive advantage from his former ideas and ex- perience. '• By the adoption of these rules, every farm- er will be master of his time, so that every thing required to be done, will be performed at the l>roper moment ; and not delayed till the season and opportunity have been lost. The impedi- ments arising from bad weather, sick servants, or the occasional and necessary absence of the master, will in that case, be of little conse- quence, nor embarrass the operations to be car- ried on; and the occupier will not be prevented I'rom attending to even the smallest concerns connected with his business, on the aggregate i>f ivhicli his prosperity depends. " Besides, an arrangement for carrying on operations without, a settled plan for the man- agement of the family within, ougiit not to be neglected. In regard to house-keeping, the safest plan is not to suffer it to exceed a certain avmi weekly, stating the value of every article from the farm. An annual sum should be allot- ted for dress, and the personal expenses of the farmer, his wife and children, which ought not] to be exceeded. The whole allotted expense] should be considerably within the probable re- ceipts ; and at least one-eighth of the income actually received, should be laid up for contin- gencies, or expended in cxlni improvements on the farm, if it belongs to the I'armcr in property, or is held for a term of years." T<1 THF. EDITnn OF THE .NFW F.VC.I.AXD FARMER. I desire through the medium of thy useful paper, the ailvice and direction of some expe- rienced gentlemen of the Eastern ^*tates wheth- er there is not a better mode of boiling the sap of the sugar maple than in iron kettles over a tire ? I am led to these inquiries by the circum- stance of a young man, lately from an eastern ■State, having erected in this neighborhood a wooden distillery that is boiled by steam con- veyed into the bottom of the cistern by wooden pipes from a small iron kettle, set in an arch some thirty feet distant. Having had upwards of thirty years experi- ence and observations in mannfarturing maple sugar in the same orchard, i h;id thoughts of publishing some directions tor public beri'tit, and wish to know if there hath been any late improvements in boiling down ilie sap by steam. S.\MUEL PKEStON. Stockport, Pa. Dec. 23, 18-22. THE FARMER. BOSTO.Y .—SATURDJIY, ,K1.\'. 4, 1823. Alter tendering the compliments of the season to our patiOTis, subscribers and well-wishers, we shall pre- sume on the privilege, which custom sanctions, on sim- ilar occasions, to make a few observations on such events of the past year as will probably stand the most prominent in the annals of the times. Our retrospect, however, will consist merely of a few transient glances, not of a regular survey. We do not profess to be io voluminous a chronicler of weekly novelties as most of our brethren, whose papers are not, like ours, devoted to some specific purpose. A less minute recapitulation of recent incidents will be expected from us, than from those wholesale dealers in diurnal occurrences, who print daily papers ; or even from the conductors of tho.ie weekly vehicles of all sorts of intelligence, whose columns are almost exclusively occupied by such mar- vellous matters of fact as are technically called ntus. The year past has not been signalized with any transactions or productions which can make much dis- play in the records of ages, Some nations are strug- gling for liberty, some looking on with apathy, and others apparently with interest ; and if their good wish- es were as prevalent as those of Fortunatus, would be sure to break the yoke of the oppressor, and set the captive free. The Greeks are maintaining an unequal and sanguinary warfare with a ferocious foe. The U. States assist them with newspaper expressions of sym- pathy, sentimental toasts, and town-meeting resolu- tions. These, should they ever reach the ears of the belligerents, may encourage the hearts, if not strength- en the hands of the descendants of Leonidas. Great Britain, who might be the emancipator of Greece, has hitherto evinced a degree of coolness towards her cause which seems hardly compatible with that regard for the welfare of t^htistcndom which is due from a nation wliosc kings have ever borne the title of " Defender of the Faith." The Emperor of Russia, although at the head of the Greek Church, appears to care but little about the Greek nation. It is possible, howevi r, that those powers are actuated altogether by lliat p.acilic policy, which has of late, (at least ostensibly) been tl.e , ii.t order of the day in Europe ; and it may be that Congress at Verona will yet take measures to aid cause of men, whose unassisted efforts and suffer reflect disgrace on civilized maakind. The Spaniards do not appear to know verj' well 1 to manage the little liberty which they have acqui The king and constitution (to use a farmer's phr; work as awkwardly together as a couple of off-oi The king is at the head of the constitutional, aliai publican party, and the rebels are royalists, who r against the king round his own standard, and ui his own banner I They oppose the king in the n; and in behalf of his majesty, and would, proba shoot or behead him for his own benefit, if their was the law of the land. Whether the element! political contention will subside without settling I the calm of despotism, is a problem which time c can resolve. France seems settled on her lees. Political cl vescence has occasionally been manifested by fro I biillitions in her legislative bodies. But nothing ni formidable than bubbles and fumes has originated fi the boiling of the political caldron ; although it often seemed on the point oi exploding like the bo nfahigh temperature steam engine. We are apj h'-nsive that the French nation would not make best possible use of freedom if they had it in possessic ?n3. their apprenticeship to liberty under Bonap; does not appear to have taught them how to be tl own masters. England of late has presented nothing novel or traordinary, except the travels of Majesty ; the loy; .if his Scotch subjects ; the decease of lord CastUrca! ibe liberation of Hunt, the main spring of radical mo nicnts ; and the accession of .Mr. Canning to the oi of Prime Minister. This last event it is thought is inauspicious to the cause of freedom in Spain ; am is hoped that the Greeks have at least nothing to ( from his counsels. The season in England has b uncommonly productive, and Wheat so low that c siderable quantities have been shipped to advanlagt Xew York. South America still remains a theatre of content! Freedom is a plant which does not appear to fin congenial soil in that part of the torrid zone. Th can be no doubt but Spain has lost the sceptre of I dominion in S. America. But whether the South .\c ricans will succeed in establishing free and stable g ernments on correct republican principles is somcwl problematical. With regard to our own " happy land," we h; every blessing bestowed which can lead us to be gra ful to the Source of all benefits. IS'otwithstandi some unfavorable appearances, in consequence of ea drought, the fruits of the earth were, pirhaps, nei more abundant. The rancor of political animos seems to be nearly annihilated. The mists of pai can now neither magnify nor conceal the merits or c merits of candidates for office, and he who deseri best of his country, in general way, has the fain prospect of succeeding to its honors and emoluments.' After these brief sketches of " things in general this passing peep at the great Babel, called The Worl we hope to be indulged in a word or two relating our own concerns. It is now about five months siin \\<: commenced the publication of the New Ijiglai Farmer. Our subscribers are not so many as we wis nor so few as we have feared. We have had less a sistance from correspondents than our hopes had li us to anticipate ; but we have receivtd some vaUiab commiuiicHtions, and take it for granted that there aV others in the germe, which will, in due season, be d' velojied. I- ■&< tl I xNEW ENGLAND FARMER. 103 should not only be gratified, but the public good I , be promoted as well as individuals benefited, rgec jjroportion of our cultivators would subscribe ay for the New Kns^land Farmer. This we can evident by a very little reasoning on the subject. i well observed by Lord Bacon that " knowledge rer." To this it may be added that agricultural ledge is cask to a farmer — money in hand, and f at interest. It teaches how to work to the best itaje ; and he who " works it right," is on the ■ay to fortune. The New Kngland Farmer is a tory of that kind of knowledge which is wealth husbandman. Wc say nothing of our own writ- aud at present will not boast of any communica- which we have received or may receive from our ,y and intelligent correspondents. But the ex- and abridgments from the works of Sir John lir, Sir Humphrey Davy, the various Dictionaries ;s, works upon Farriery, Transactions of the dif- Agricultural Societies, both foreign and domes- [uotations from the American Farmer and the ■h Boy, and various other agricultural books and cannot fail to prove profitable to every farmer can think as well as read, and has judgment ;h to make a proper use of the knowledge which ccd before him. becoming dry as an anatomical preparation. True it ] is that after we have impressed on our columns these fruits of our researches, with a faint hope that some- body might appreciate our exertions, the same matter lias betu shortly after presented to us in some country paper, witli tvery common indication of its being the result of the sapience of the Solomon who conducts it! These things, however, as we said before, we shall say nothing about. But when we have written an article which is as original as any thing can be, if composed of the letters of the alphabet, (which we do not pretend to have invented) with a great deal of that kind of toil which exhausts the mind without invigorating the body, and attenuates the thread of life till little or nothing is left for the destinies to snap with their scissors — when we have done this, to have the fruits of our labor come staring at us in a village paper as the production of some journalist, who " Pretends to be a sage philosopher, But ne'er read Alexander Ross over ;■" and who, by the courtesy of the public, and the indul- gence of a free government, is suffered to soil white paper and blacken every thing about him with prin- ter's ink ; — this might '• in Job or Griswold stir mood," and provoke to active indignation any one not as tame as an over-worked ox that lies down in the furrow. NSPLANTED SCIENCE AXD ENGRAFTED LITERATURE. rtaiu of our brethren of the type and quill, who ge those learned hebdomadal publications ycleped cates. Intelligencers, Heralds, Messengers, Patri- lazettes. Journals, S^c. Sec. ijc. have, of late, been assiduous in decorating their literary parterres, te potatoe patches, and scieEtific pumpkin-yards articles taken from the nursery and seed plot of ew England Farmer. Although we are not only dy willing, but truly solicitous that the public d reap an abundant harvest from our humble la- yel it would be no more than common civility (to othlng about common honesty) would seem to re- , for our co-adjutors to just intimate the source whence they generally derive their agricultural cs. But, instead of this, many of the gentlemen lom we allude, have, since we began our estab- ent, opened petty offices in one corner of their papers, for the disposal of agricultural and eco- cal intelligence, and taken almost their whole in trade (save their brass) from our premises, not without licence, but without acknowledgment 1 : of these Georgical geniuses, by thus engrafting ;n scions on their own stumps, contrive to pass for ti;ic agriculturists, when in fact they hardly know •snip from a pumpkin, or a hoe from a hay-cart. ■ arc, however, perfectly welcome to any or all our ics, provided they will be eo good as to prefix or ih the words jVew England Farmer to such of our s and chattels as they may from time to time con- -•nd to exhibit in their columns. Indeed, the more ral publicity they give to our productions, with ibovementioned condition, the better we shall be icd, and, perhaps, the more their readers will be fited. e do not intend to say any thing against gentlemen >rs taking the liberty to select our selections, with- intimating the source from whence thty derived True it is that we have toiled through the mas- matter of foreign journals, cyclopedias, and other sitories of science, and employed ourselves in col- ig, condensing and compactiugsuch passages as we ; thought might be proper for our publication, and ficial to the public, till our very spectacles waxed with fatigue, and our brains seemed in danger of FARMER SUMMARY OF NEWS. CONGRESSIONAL. Nothing of great general consequence appears to be on the carpet in our National Legblature. A motion for fortifying Thompson's Island, off Florida, has been adopted. Mr, Wright has offered a resolution for an in- quiry into the expediency of arming all the militia with njlesy excepting those residijig in cities, towns and vil- lages. A bill has been before the House, and is com- mitted, for incorporating an U. S. Naval Fraternal As- sociation. A memorial of A\'illiam Thornton and 137 other citizens of (he District of Columbia, has been presented by Mr. Dwight, piaying Congress to appro- priate two or three millions, in provisions, or whatever may be necessary to the Greeks ; which has been or- dered to lie on the table. Bills have passed the House tf>regiilate the collecting of duties on goods imported from Canada, and for makingperpetual the laws for the punishment of piracy. THE MASSACHUSETTS LEGISLATURE assembled on the 1st inst. and immediately proceeded to business. 1 he Governor's Message was received at 12 o'clock, and is an official document of too much merit for us to attempt to abridge or analyze it. The last paragraph announces the determination of His J'.xcellen- cy to decline being considered a candidate for re-elec- tion to the office of chief magistrate. A late arrival at New York has brought London dates to the 6th of November. They contain a report that a battle has been fought on the frontiers of Spain in which the royalists had proved victorious, and the Constitu- tional Brigadier-General Torrigo, was mortally wound- ed. Letters from Paris, however, pronounce the fore- going to be mere rumours. The Congress of Verona ware sitling,, without having hatched any thing of consequence. Paris papers assert that Greek deputies were on the way to Verona, nnd that Alexander, and all his minis- ters were decidedly in favor of a war with Turkey ; but are opposed by other powers. The late account of Morales having gained a victory over the Colombian army is incorrect. On the con- trary, Capt. Mason, lately arrived at Baltimore, gives information of two battles having been fought on the 22d and 24th of November, in which the Colombian Ibrces proved victorious. The royal troops, in conse- quence, were obliged to evacuate Maracaibo on the 26th, and that place was taken possession of the same day by Gen. Montilla. A system of outrage appears to be the order of the day in Ireland. An Irish paper states, that " the infat- uated and desperate peasantry are again collecting arms ; and again have the gentry who were not able to remove to towns or to the capital, tailed upon the Government for assistance. But what can the go\- ernment do more than it has done r" We learn from the National Intelligencer, that Com. Porter arrived at Baltimore on the evening of the 2-11 li inst. and almost before he v. as known to h;:ve bi aid in the work, but to effect it, an act of incorpora- tion from each of the States of Rhode Island and Mas- sachusetts, was necessary. The Rhode Island legisla- ture passed an act, which vested a company with pow- ers and privileges to prosecute the design, but the le- gislature of Massachusetts withheld its assent to a cor- responding Act of Incorporation. This vote of the Massachusetts legislature preTcnted for a time any farther attempts to carry the project into execution. Committees, however, have been re- cently appointed to investigate the subject, who en- gaged Benjamin Wright, Esq. Chief Engineer upon the middle section of the great Erie Canal, to make a to- pographical survey of the route. Mr. Wright, with Oe aid of two assistant engineers, completed a survey in September last, and made a Report from whence the following facts arc obtained. The distance over the route for the proposed Canal is 45 miles as a canal would run j and the descent is 151 1-2 feet, from Thomas-street, in Worcester, to tidi Abater at Providence. The ground is remarkably fa- rorable. The soil generally easy to excavate — the embankments neither large nor extensive — very little solid rock to be removed — the aqueducts ajid <-"tverts arc not numemn. n- <>», :..o A c.xnal 32 feet wide "^t top, 18 feet at bottom, and 3 1-2 feet depth of water •would be the proper size to be formed. Locks of 70 feet between the gates, and 10 feet in width, would be .sn.Ticicntly large for the trade intended— bearing in mind a proper economy in the use of water, and in the erection of the locks. North Pond, lying two miles Northerly from the Court-house in ^V•orcestcr, and Dority Pond, in MiUbury, arc calculated to be suffi- «;ient to afford, by means of dams erected at their oul- i-ts, lockage water for 1 9,602 locks of 8 feet lift each. :.ong Pond, which falls into Blackstone River, covers at least 1,500 acres, and may be raised 6, 8, or 10 feet above its present level, with a small exiiente, and would, in the greatest drought, secure an abundant supply for " The plan, then, i.i feasible, the supply of water abundant, and the expense much less than was contemplated; the only question, there foie, which remains to be settled is, whether it is cTpedieni ? On this point, those who have most carefully and deliberately examined the subject, would almost consider it heresy to doubt, so manifest are the advantag'es, and so obvious the importance to a large and fertile section of the coimtry, whose prosperity probably experiences a severer check from the high charges for trans- portation on tonnage than from any other single cause, it is probable the question of expedien- cy would not have slept, under the decision of the Legislature in 1790, until this time, without a renewed ai)plication for an Act of Incorpora- tion, had there not been, during a large portion of that period, a peculiar concurrence of circum- stances, which probably will not again recur." " It \i calculated that the expense of trans- porting on a Canal, exclusive of tolls, amounts to ONE CENT a ton, per mile, or one dollar a ton, for one hundred miles, while the usual cost of conveyance by land, is one dollar and t'j.'enty Jive cents per hundred weight, or tzcen1y-Ji-ce dollars a ton, for the same distance. '^ The celerity and certainty of this mode of transportation are evident. A loaded boat can be towed, by one or two horses, at the rate ol twenty-tive or thir- ty miles a day. Hence, the seller or buyer, can calculate, with suflicient precision, on his sale, or purchases — the period of their arrival — the amount of their avails, and the extent of their value. A vessel on a Canal is independent of winds, tides and currents, and is not exposed to the delays attending conveyances by land ; and with regard to safety, there can be no compe- tition. The injuries to which commodities are exposed, when transported by land, and the dam- ages to which they are liable, when conveyed by natural waters, are rarely experienced on Canals. In the latter way, comparatively speak- ing, no waste is incurred, no risk is enconntered and no insorance is required. Hence it follows, that Canals operate upon the general interests of society, in the same way that machines for saving labor do, in manufactures. They enable the Farmer, the Mechanic, and the Merchant, to convey their commodities to market, and to receive a return, at least t-jeenty-four times cheaper, than by roads," [exclusive of tolls, which are usually very moderate.] " As to all the purposes of benelicial communication, they diminish the distance between places, and therefore encourage the cultivation of the most extensive and remote parts of the country. They create new sources of internal trade, and augment the old channel ; for the more clieap AGRICULTURE. the Canal wit'.iout injuring, in the smallest degree, the Important mauufactuiing interests along the Blackstone I '^^ transportation, the more expanded will be :iud its branches. ° j its operation ; and the greater the mass of the 'i'hc whole expense, as reported by Mr. Wright, will \ Products of the country for sale, the greater amount to $32:i,319. In this estimate is included 415, j9j for contingencies. Vv'e shall conclnde this notice by the following ex- frac's, given verbatim from the pamphlet before us : •''1 he Report states that " the- ground is re- inarhably favorable — the soil generallv easy to excavate — the embankments neither large nor extensive — very little solid rock to be removed, and the Aqueducts and Culverts not numerous or expensive ;" and it may be added that the route is remarkably direct. This fully accounts for the estimates of the Engineer, falling short of public expectation. will be the commercial exchange of returning merchandise, and the greater the encourage- ment to Manufacturers by the increased econ- omy and comfort of living, together with the chea|)ness and abundance of provisions and raw materials. Consequently, Canals are advantage- ous to towns and villages, and to the whole country, by increasing population, augmpiiling individual and aggregate wealth, and extending foreign commerce." Erom the Middlesex Garette. At a meeting of the Trustees of the Society of Middlesex Husbandmen and Manufacturers, holden at Concord, Jan. 1st, A. D. 1823, the following premiums were awarded : To Col. Joseph Valentine, of Hopkinton, the sum of fifteen dollars, for the greatest quantity of Indian corn, raised on one acre of land, being 119 [>ushels, 3 pecks and 2 quarts. [For the soil and process of cultivation, see our la«t, na^e' 178.] '^^ ' To Ebenezer Little, of Shirley, the sum of ten dollars, for the next greatest quantity of In- dian corn raised on one acre, being 06 bushels. To James Kimball, of Littleton, the sum of seven dollars, for the greatest quantity of Bar- ley raised on one acre of land, being 10 1-2 bush- els of heavy two-rowed barley, weighing hO lbs. the bushel. Several other claims for premiums on Agri- cultural experiments were laid before the Trus- tees, and were deferred for further considera- tion, to the adjourned meeting of the Trustees, which will be holden at Darrah's Hotel, in Con- cord, on the 11th day of March next. Agreeable to a vote of the Society in 1821, the Treasurer has distributed among some of the most intelligent and attentive farmers in the County, a quantity of Chili wheat and Riga flax- seed, for the purpose of having their value tested by various experiments. Seven of the persons, who received some of the wheat and llax-secd, have made reports to the Trustees, and although the experiments have been made in different parts of the county, and on a variety of noils, the residt of each has been nearly the same. The wheat has in every instance failed. It jrew with great luxuriance and apparent health and vigor, and seemed to promise an abundant product ; but in each case there has been a gen- eral blast of the grain — no kernels have been produced which will equal either in si2^ or fair- ness, those which were sown. The success of the flax has been different. In every instance it has farsurpassed any which has been ordinarily cultivated in this county. That which was sown on a rich soil grew to the height of six feet, and arrived at maturity in due season. No facts have yet been communicated from which the quality of the flax when fully prepared for the spindle, can be determined with certainty, but it is believed that it will be much superior to the flax usually raised in this vicinity. By order of the Trustees, N. BROOKS, Rcc. Sec. Many who find the day too long, think life too short. Description of a method of cultivating Peach Trees, with a view to prevent their premature decay ; confirmed by the experience of forty-Jive years, in Delaware state, and the Western parts of Pcnn-syhania. By Thomas Coulter, Esq. of Bedford County, Pe7insylvania. From the Transactions of the American Philosophical . Society. The death of young peach trees is principal- ly owing to planting, transplanting, and pruning the same stock, which occasions it to be open and tender, with a rough bark, in consequence of which insects lodge and breed in it, and birds search after them, whereby wounds are made. But short as lii'c is, some lind it long enuugh to outlive 'he gum exudes, and in a few years the tree is their characters, their constitutions, and their estites, I useless. To prevent this, traosplaat ;^our trees x\EW ENGLAND FARMER. 187 as young as possible, if in the kernel it will be best, as there will (hen be no check of growth. Plant them sixteen feet apart. Plow and har- row between them, for two jears, without re- gard to wounding them, but avoid tearing them up hy the roots. In the month of March or April, in the third year after transplanting, cut tliem all off by the ground, plow and harrow among them as before, but with great care, to avoid wounding or tearing them. Suil'erall the sprouts or scions to grow, even if they should amount to half a dozen or more, they become litaring trees almost instantaneoiisly, on account of the strength of the root. Allow no animals iiiit hogs to enter your orchard, for fear of their ivounding the shoots, as a subatance drains away through the least wound, which is essential to the health of the tree, and the good quality of tlie fruit. if the old stock is cut away the tliird year after transplanting, no more shoots will come to maturity than the old stump can support and nourish, the remainder will die bel'ore they bear fruit, and may be cut away, taking care not to wound any other stock. The sprouts when )loaded wiih fruit will bend, and rest on the ground in every direction for many years, all of them being rooted as if they had been planted, their stocks remaining toiigh, and their bark smooth, for twenty years and upwards. If any of the sprouts from the old stump should happen to split off and die, cut them away, they will be .supplied iVom the ground by others, so that you may have trees from the same for 100 years, as I believe. I have now trees from one to thirty six years old, all from the same stump. Young trees, formed in this manner, will bear fruit the second year; but this fruit will not ripen so ear- ly as the fruit on the older trees tVom the same stump. Three years after the trees are cut olf, (Ijc shoots will be sufficiently large and bushy t 1 shade the ground so as to prevent the growth . r grass, that might injure the trees: therefore jMoughing will be useless, and may lie injurioas bv wounding them. It is also unnecessary to nianure peach trees, as the fruit of manured trees is always smaller and inferior to that of trees which are not manured. By manuring you make the peach trees larger, and apparent- ly more flourishing, but their fruit will be of a bad kind, looking as green as the leaves, even when ripe, and later than that of trees which have not been manured. Peach trees never re- quire a rich soil : the poorer the soil the better the fruit : a middling soil produces the most bountiful crop. The highest ground is the best for peach trees, and the north' side of hills the most desirable, as it retards vegetation, and pre- vents the destructive etTects of late frosts, which occur in the month of April, in Pennsylvania. Convinced, by long experience, of the truth of these observations, the author wishes they may be published for public bcnelit, and has been in- formed, th.it Col. Luther Martin and another gentleman, in the lower part of Maryland, have adopted a similar plan with great advantage. REMARK BY THE P.DITOR. Oir" The method here described of managing peach trees will probably supply some useful hints for the culture of apple and other fruit trees. Old orchards might be renewed by cut- ting away in the proper season the old stocks, and leaviiig the most vigorous sprout to renew the stock, or making use of the stump to ingraft upon; if the fruit be not of tho best quality. — New varieties of fruit, however, ought to be oc- casionally sought for from the seeds, as ingrafted fruits in process of time t exactions of others. An attention to the breeding of swine, is an important acquisition, for while it regulates the pigery, it contributes largely to the accumula- tion of manure, without which, profitable re- turns cannot be expected from culture. Manure being the mainspring in agriculture, an attention toit is of the higliest importance, whether of inland location, or contiguous lo tile sea board — the latter, however, combines many advan(ages in that particular, not comprised in the former, as large collections might easily be made from sea and rock weed, dock mud, and many other floating substances possessing salt and other qualities important, whether for com- post or other manure. Establishments for the reception and main- tainance of paupers on a somewhat similar plan, would no doubt greatly lighten taxation, and contribute to the comfort of the dependant, while under the guidance of sound policy, bot- tomed on benevolent principles, together with a well regulated police, essentially necessary to the health and comfort of old age, poverty and decrepitude would rarely be deprived of the ne- cessaries and comforts of life, while (he wan(s of the indigent would be provided for, at little or no expense to the community. A MIDDLESEX HUSBANDMAN. From the Columbian Star. There is a practical infidelity abroad, which derides the idea of Divine Providence. What- ever calamity may happen, "forth stops the spruce philosopher,'" and descants learnedly on the causes which have produced it ; and he is satisfied with the most absurd conclusions, if he can succeed in excluding the all-suslainiug and controlling Sovereign of the Universe from any agency in the event. 188 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. FOR THE NF.IV EXCI.AM) FARMER. ON THE PRESERVATION OF THE TEETH. Keeping the teeth clean is indispensable to their preservation. By suffering the particles of fcoil and other impurities which are constant- ly coUectiiiij about them to remain, is to favor the production and operation of those causes wliicli effect their ruin. Whatever then is best suited to keep them clean, nithout the power of injuring tliem, is also best calculated to prevent their discolora- tion and decay. The same causes which pro- duce caries of the teeth, tend likewise to injure the gums and breath, rendering- the latter otfen- f ive, the gums sponsjy, and dotachin^d; them from the teeth. Most of the imported tooth pow- ders, and those whose composition is kept se- cret, possess some acid property, or grinding power, which hurts the teeth by corroding or abrading the enamel, or protecting surface of them, leaving the comparatively soft and bony part within, to turn black and perish, without the possibility of the tooth's being restored to a sound state. These dentil'rices often give the teeth an unnatural whiteness and brilliancy, very pleasing at tlrst, and for a time, before their real cliaracter and effects are suspected. All that any preparation of this kind was ever intended to accomplish, by any one excepting an impostor, is to keep the teeth clean, of a natural whitcnes-, the gums sound, and the breath sweet. All these effects the following powder is well suited to produce, without its possrssing any quality which can, in any length of time or freedom of use, occasion the smallest injury of any sort. From its well known property of sweetening putrid and offensive substances, char- coal has latterly been, by some, much commend- ed, and by many used as a dentifrice. After some time however, its particles were fountl to pos- sess a grinding power, from their hardness, which soon wore off the enamel. Engravers avail themselves of this property of finely pulverized charcoal, to grind down and polish their plates. THE TOOTH-POWDER. Take of Peruvian bark 2 parts. Armenian bole 4 " ■Prepared chalk 4 " Myrrh 2 " Loaf sugar 2 " Carbonate of soda i a part. Castile soap 2 parts. These are to be pulverized, mixed, and pass- ed through a sieve. Any apothecary can fur- nish this tooth-powder. TOOTH BRUSHES. The brush with which this poivder is to be apjilied, should be sudicicnlly large and iirm, and the hairs not too closely placed. One reason for pret'erring hard brushes is, that they become softer by use, and another is that if not pretty stiff, they are not tirm enough to clean the teeth thoroughly. They are never too hard unless they are so unyielding as to in- sinuate themselves between the teeth and gums, so as to separate them; this being guarded a- gainst, the lirmer they are the belter. Having thus provided the powder and brush, the question is, how are they to be used ? Thi! mouth should be rinsed with cold water, and the brush dipped into it before the powder is used. A quantity ol the powder should llien be taken up on the end of the brush, and appli- ed to every part of each tooth, not only to the anterior surface of the fore teeth, but the brush covered with the dentifrice, should be succes- sively applied to the inner, as well as the outer, surface of the upper and lower teeth, and also to their ends. The last motions of the brush should be carried from the gums to the ends of the teeth, in the direction of their length. This serves to elongate the gum and to spread its points more elegantly over the enamel. The best time for using the tooth powder is after breakfast, and this should be done every day. In addition to this, we should be careful to cleanse the mouth with water and the brush, after every meal; and this should be particu- larly attended to before going to rest, otherwise the foulness which is too ol'ten permitted to ac- cumulate through the day, cannot fail to commit its ravages on the teeth, gums and breath thro' the night. Benserade, a Frenchman, said of a young lady, who had a very strong breath, whom he heard sing, " What a beautiful voice, and charming words, but the air is worth noth- ing.'' Mais Pair n'en vaut rien. Brushing the teeth once a day, if faithfully done, is preferable to many hasty and imper- fect attempts to clean them. Merely to pass the brush a few times lightly and rapidly over the teeth, is of little service ; four or live minutes should be diligently spent in performing this operation. The idea that the enamel of the teeth can be injured by brushing, is as unfounded and ab- surd as it would be to suppose that the palms of the hands might be worn out by moderate labor. The same grateful and refreshing sensations which result from bathing the surface of the body, arise also from a proper attention to the mouth. No one who neglects his mouth can be said to be personally neat ; nor can any one who omits this necessary attention to himself, justly expect the voluntary attention of others. for the sew england farmer. Mr. Editor, I send you the following; extract from a Memoir read before the Royal Academy of Sciences, as tending to show the great exertion, as well as the royal patron- age, which is exercised in France, for the improvement of their manufactures. Though the success which at- : tended this effort was not so complete as could have been wished, yet it appears to have settled a question as to which no satisfactory information could be before obtained. It had long been a question with the curi- ous what animal produced the material of the Cash- mere (or by some called Camel's hair) shawl, of which we see generally only those of the cheaper kind. The time taken as well as the intricacy of the manutacturi giving to them a most prodigious value. It will be seen that the individuals in this expedition passed thio' Russia and Tartary. In T.-irtary was found the goat which produced this remarkable fleece, in the posses- sion of some wandering tribes, who gave them the name of the Thibet goat. Thus the labor was pre- vented of passing to Thibet, Persia or Cashmere in India. It seems four hundred of these animals were brought to France, being only about one third of the number purchased. How far they may retain the fine- ness of their down in France, and what th^ ir utility in manufactures may be, time only can discover. It will be very long before the subject can te immediately Importan- to us. But the knowledge cannot fai! to b« very iu'ensting to such of your readers as havi not seen this memoir. It goes to establish a fact as to which there was till of late great doubt, and is indeed" an object of much curiosity and gratification. W^ - Cashmere Goat, anil its Importation into France. The sight of these shawls, which are brought from Asia, and which spread all over Europe, make a part in the presents of the sovereigns of the east, and adorn the heads and waists of the rich inhabitants of those countries, gave rise to the question among the naturalists of Europe, what species of animal produced the material from which such precious stuffs were made. — Travellers gave no satisfactory information upon this subject. The general opinion was, that cashmeres were produced from a goat, but the particular species was not determined. The importation which has just been made clears up, in part, this difficulty, for these animals pro- duct; a down exactlv like that of which the most rare shawls are made ; 1 say in part, because it is not impossible that wool may be also emjdoy- ed lor this purpoee, or that different kinds of the goat may unite to bring the maiitifacturn to perfection. I shall describe particularly those which I have seen upon their arrival at two of our Mediterranean ports. Their usual height is about 25 inches from the ground to the top of the back, and the length from the beginning of the tail to the head, three feet. Almost all have horns, which are straight, black, and for the most part round ; those of some males, as well as females, are thick, furry, white in the majority of individu- als, some brown or black, several spotteil. They are formed of long hairs, v\hich cover the legs, in part, and a very soft down. The latter is line in proportion as the hair is long; the quality of one may be known from the other. This down grows near the skin, from which it separates and forms tufts, which can be drawn away by a comb or by the hand. E.xcept in the case of an absolute prohibition, it ap- pears as if out manufacturers could have no in- terest in importing these downy cashmere goats into France, for the material may be procured in the way of commerce: it would be sutBcient for them to imitate the stuff which bears this name. M. Ternaux, so well known by his beautiful es- tablishments, was not of this opinion. He had received, by the way of Russia, down enough to make some shawls ; his success gave him the idea of procuring the animal on whose body na- ture had placed this down. The undertaking was not an easy one. He found in M. Jaubert, Master of Requests, and Professor of the Turk- ish language, a man of zeal and intelligence, who was not to be repulsed by obstacles, and who was much attached to this country. This gentleman had already travelled in the Levant, and could make hini«elf understood among the different nations. He was willing to undertake the expedition. In order to obtain the protection of Govern- ment, M. Ternaux presented bim to the Duke of Richelieu, then Minister of Foreign Affairs. This Minister,- who acknowledged the utility of the projcct,made a contract with Ternaux and Jaubert, in the name of the King, by which Ternaux was to receive a premium of encour- agoraetit if the oxped'tion succeeded. The Government was to take a hundred goats at a i3 ii NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 189 I price. In consequance of this, Jaubert Paris in the month of April, 1818, recom- ided by the Duke of Richeheu to the notice the Emperor of Russia. This Sovereign e orders in his dominions thnt the French •eller should he funiishoJ with all the faclli- he needed. Jauhert went first to Odessa, i^aroclc, and Vstrican, to the camp of Gen- 1 JermoloiV, under the Caucasus, tak^nq; eve- ivherc informadon from the Boukars respect- the Kirghiz and the Armenians, who fre- nt and inhibit the last of the cities. He was )rmed that there existed among the numer- hordi of Kirgh'z (a wandering people who neint.' Boukaria,) on the borders of Oueal,a ciesofg-oat wliich was almost always of a '.zling whiteness, and which bore every year, the month of June, a remarkable fleece. — le samples shown bim convinced him of the iformity of this down with that which came o France by the way of Russia. The discovery was the more interesting to as it saved his time and a troublesome joiir- y in crossing into Thibet, by Persia and Cash- re. He was not deceived, and in some hun- jd versts from the Wolga, in the middle of 3 Steppes, which separated Astracan from •emburgo, he found thick down, which con- iced him that he would not tind it necessary go much farther. He also remarked that eygave them the name of Thibet goats, in the iguage of the country, when they spoke of em. He then made his purchases, buying dif- rent lots among the Kirghiz of the horde call- Cara Agedi (the black tree,) among the rghiz of the horde called Kaiskas, in all 229 beasts. He directed his troop towards zaritzin, where he passed the river \VoIga. he season became severe, and the mortality long the goats was very great. He had for- ed a plan of embarking them at Tuiigarock. t the sea of Azott was frozen. He was oblig- to go along the coast with them to Theodo- lorCassa. He arrived there the 241h of De- mber, after having lost 268 of his animals. — he 14th of February he sent, in a Russian ves- 1, the only one he could procure, 56G, togeth- • with some Austrian sheep, under the care of French supercargo. The vessel arrived at [arseilles towards the month of April: Jaubert ad preferred not to come until he could bring le second troop, which he did not choose to ave behind. It results from the experiment of Jaubert and ?ernaux, that from 1,229 goats bought among kirghiz, deducting all the losses which have aken place, there are at present in France 400 owny goats of Cashmere. i'onning division by using a fraction, oither com- mon or decimal, as a multiplier, is familiar; but how this depends on th'? neiUral properties ol the unit is not readily comprehended. As Mr. Preston, from the tenor of his communications,' seems to be a man of somn science and inrjenn- ity, and no doubt can fully explain his meaning, !t is hoped he will make a more full anrl minute explanation of his ideas upon the neutral prop- erties of the unit. The relations and properties ol' numbers are of that abstract nature, that more minute explanation is frequently reipiired to convey ide.is to others, than the person in full possession of them deems necessary. But as Mr. Preston has pledged himself to " explain and lender" his rule (and of course all his reasons for it) " intelligible to any person master of the common rules of arithmetic," we have no doubt but his ideas upon the neutral properties of the unit, will be made public. The writer of this wouhl have no objection to a correspondence with any gentleman of intel- ligence upon a favorite science. Should Mr. P. mean to allude to any other than a public cor- respondence, and such a wish should be hereafter expressed, the name and residence of the writer of this, can be given him, through a clta7incl of the writer's own choice. C. From the Hallowe!! .Advocate, Jan. 4. In the Advocate of last week 1 observed a ;ommunication from Samuel Preston, of Penn- ylvania, to the publisher of the New England ^armer, wherein allusion is made to a deinon- tration o( friend Preston's rules for gauging pub- lished in the Advocate of 8th Nov. last. The author of that demonstration is pleased to see ihe reasons for the rule given in that communi- ;:ation by the person who invented or discover- ed it. The Rationale of the rule are satisfac- tory except that it is not perceived how the rea- sons for performing f?niwion by multiplication de- pend on the neutral properties of an unit. The nrinciple as laid down by friend Preston, of per- snrroundiiig air and ceiling ; which is again de- posited on every thing beneath it, and of course often on the vessels, after (hey have been put liy cL'-i^u, at the times of their being out of use. This may be observed to give a dull sort of an ippearance to brass and copper, as if you had breathed upon them ; lor if you rub vour fin- gers lightly over the vessels, you will have both the taste and smell of the metal. It also happens sometimes, that after tlie ves- sels were washed, they are not carefully rinsed, nor perfectly dried by the (ire ; so that some of the milk, &c. is left on their surface, which dis- solves the metals, either by its animal, oily, or acescent qualities. This is not the only way, nor the worst, by which the butter may become impregnated with mischief. The greater the quantity of cream thrown up from the milk, the larger the profits accruing to the dairy-man ; therefore he keeps it as long as he can, and it is frequently kept till it is very sour, and capable of acting upon them ; if they are of lead, a calx or sugar of lead is produced; if brass or copper, verdigris. It is true that the quantity cannot be very great ; this, however, will depend upon the de- gree of sourness, and length of time which the milk stands ; but, independent of the acid, the animal oil in the cream will dissolve brass and copper. That an acid floats in the atmosphere of a dai- ry, may he proved, by placing therein a bason of syrup of violets, for a little time, which will he found to turn red. If then I am right in my conjectures, as I think I am, from the innumerable experiments and observations which I have made to satisfy my- self of the fact, and which it would be trifling to relate here, may not the leputation of whole- someness, or unwholesomeness of butter depend upon, or be owing to some of the above causes 1 And may not many a casual, nay, obstinate com- plaint, which physicians have labored in vain to account for, have originated from this source ? Butter is found, very frequently, to occasion much disorder to very weakly, delicate and ir- ritable stomachs, yet these stomachs will bear olive-oil : this cannot easily he accounted for, but from nietalic impregnation. I will not contend, that all the ill efTects al- tribuled to butter are caused by the mineral par- ticles, which it gains by the means above stated. I only insist that it is possible, and indeed very probable ; and that, when butter is free from these particles, it is not so unwholesome as as- serted ; though, when it does not contain them, it is found to disorder very tender persons. To enlarge upon the subject, or attempt to explain the many ways by which a very small quiuitily of the above metals may prove inju- rious to the human frame, in some particular constitutions, would be only to repeat what has already been said by older writers* Some will perhaps say that my ideas are very far fetched, and pthers that my opinions are ill-founded ; but I trust, whoever has read the illustrious research- es of Sir George Baker, on the effects of lead, and the melancholy case of a young lady, 'who died from eating pickled samphire, very slight- ly impregnated with copper, and which others ate without being diseased, as related by Dr. On the danger of using vessels of Lead., Copper., or Brass, in Dairies. By Mr. Thomas Hayes., Surgeon, of [lampslead. From the [setters and Papers of the Bath and West of Enofland Society for the Encouragement of Agricul- ture, Sec. Many eminent physicians have asserted, that butter is very unwholesome ; while others, equally eminent, have considered it not only innocent, but as a good assistant to digestion ; and each have been said to ground their opin- ions upon experience. Perhaps both may be right ; and butter may be innocent or mischiev- ous, according as it contains many or few ad- ventitious materials, collected from vessels, &.C. used in the process of making it. I am led to these conjectures by observing, that in almost all the great dairies, the milk is suffered to stand in lead, brass or copper ves- sels, to throw up the cream. The closeness of the texture of these metals, and their coldness and solidity, contribute to separate a greater quantity of cream from the milk than would be done by wooden trundles, or earthen pans, both of vvhich are also sometimes made use of. As I wish to establish the possibility of the fact, that milk may corrode or dissolve particles of the vessels above mentioned, and thereupon be liable to communicate pernicious qualities to the butter, I beg leave to submit the reasons from which 1 draw this conclusion. Whoever has been much in great dairies must have observed a peculiarly sour, frowsy smell in them, although they have been ever so well attended to in point of cleanliness, &ic. In some, where the managers are not very cleanly, this smell is extremely disagreeable, owing mostly to the corrupted milk. In some it arises from the utensils being scalded in the dairy, and in others from a bad construction of the building itself, the want of a sufficient cir- culation of air, water, &c. but in all, a great deal of the lighter and more volatile parts of the »gpg gj^ George Baker's papers on. the c/reclsof leacj, milk fly off from the surface of the pans, and jn the Medical transactions ; Dr. Percival's paper, op furnish a great quantity of acid effluvia to the ] the same ; and Dr. Falconer on copper vessel?. 190 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. Percival, will receive my opinions with less ob- jection, ir I have erred, I have done it in hon- orable companv. I shall be very glad if the foreijoing olwerva- tionshave suflicieiit influence on the dniry-men, to induce them to chani^e their utensils. Very commodious vessels may be made of cast iron, equally well lltted for the purpo-os of the dairy, which will not be expensive, and will bo more innocent and cleanly. From the Connecticut Courant. Useful but disagreeable hints on the approach of a AVti) Year. There is much good sense in the adage " fre- quent reckoning makes good neighbors." Settle- ments, however, are often postponed, because there is some trilling disagreement between the parties; and to look over old accounts is a dry undertaking. Add to this our propensity to put off 'till to-morrow, and the too prevalent gross- ness of feelings regarding the high obligations of justice, and \vc find the root, from whence spring many bitter quarrels and lawsuits. Where- fore, gentle reader, hear the voice of exi>eri- enco. Fix on tlie first day of January., every year., as a date, beyond which no controversy of yours shall remain unsettled " so far as in you lies." If your books are back, take care to have them " posted up" by that day. If you find any person's account open, which has been paid, balance, it. Where the balance is against yon, saddle your horse and go directly off and pay it — in money if you have it — if not, give your note. Take especial care when your good easy neighbor, confiding in your honesty, has let his claim lie more than six years, not lo permit that plea of rascals, " outlawed," to reduce you first to doubt whether it is due, and finally to offer to settle it, " if he will throw in a trifle." Pray, why did you not pay him before, when his wit- nesses were living, and the facts fresh ? Such claims ought to be paid with interest, and that without delay, lest you die and the executor re- fuse to pay. Where the balance is in your favor, do not, by any moans neglect such a claim. 'Tis true, your neighbor may have sail that the magnifying power, which that article la s as the property of the common mirror, does not x , Itut that a mirror will sometimes reflect double or ri ■ images of objects. This circumstance led the a ulta gentleman to suppose that the planet Venus r; •(■compaujed with satellites, when for any thing ^< mw to the contrary, her ladyship is as destitute f t -ndants as a belle of the last century, whose h ms have long since faded into non-entity. FARMER SUMMARY OF NEWS. DNGRESS exhibits appearances of industry, and Jl': is every indication of the session's being lets »ely, not so windy, and more efficient than some prc- :e !?• ones. Mr. Cannon has shewn himself to be a lece of ordnance by sundry reports^ which we . lit calibre sufficient to repeat. They relate, how- » , to improving the Militia of the U. States— Of in- prohibiting the use of furs, gold lace, cashmere shawls, &c. which has excited much agitation in Constantino- ple ; and the English merchants there, were seriously affected by its operation. A Vienna article, dated Nov. 2, states, on the author- ity of letters from Verona, that the Ministers of the five powers there, have unanimously voted to disapprove of the progress of events in Spain, and that the interests of Europe will not allow them to remain as they are. This is to be formally and officially notified to the Cortes by a manifesto. Should they refuse to listen to th'» jnemorial, the ulterior measures of the Cortes will be looked for with anxiety. And it is said that the on- ly answer which the Cortes will give to any Manifesto from the Congress at \'erona, will be a decree to raise an additional army of 100,000. A Paris paper says " it is believed that Russia, Aus- tria and Prussia are determined to extinguish every spark of revolution." The French government, howev- er, says a London paper, are determined to abide by the decision of England, in regard to Spain. The Caledonian Canal, in Scotland, which opens a communication between the eastern and western seas, was opened the latter part of October. It ii nearly 20 years since it was commenced, and it cost 900,0001. Three bottles of green Gooseberries were lately acci- dentally dug up in England. They were in excellent preservation, although it is thought they had been bu- ried a century or more. So says an English paper. — Might it not be well to try some experiments suggested by this fact ? DOMESTIC. — An ingenious mechanic in Philadel- phia, has invented a new safety lock, to which he has given the name of Patent Trap Lock. It is contrived so that any key but its own being introduced into the lock, is made fast, and cannot be removed. The con- struction is simple, yet if five hundred locks were made, no key would fit any other than the one for which it was intended. Counterfeit three dollar bills of the Eagle Bank of New Haven are in circulation in New York. They are intended to imitate those of the letter C, and are made payable to J. Ingersoll, dated Dec. 1st, 181i!. The imitation is said to be very good, and well calculated to deceive. A meeting of Printers and Booksellers of Philadelphia, has been called to choose a person to attend the four hundredth grand anniversary of the invention of the Art of Printing, to be celebrated at Haerlem, ia Holland, in 18^3. and was saved, but was unable to stand when taken out of the water. The paper-mill of Gen. L. Burbank, in Fitchburgh, with its contents, was destroyed by fire on the 3d inst. F BROWN'S PATENT VERTICAL FAMILY SPINNER. OR SALE, at the Agricultural Warehouse, it\ Chambers No. 20, Merchant's Row, (opposite the East end of the Old Market) — a number of BroiiirCs Patent Family Wool Spinners, which are found on trial to be one of the most useful domestic implements that have ever been invented fot that purpose, being of so simple and easy construction that a girl of the age of 15 can well do the work of six persons in spinning, and so compact in its form as not to require so much space as a common family spinning wheel. The advantage of this machine over and above the common mode of family spinning, is at once tested in a few minutes operation with the machine ; it at once discovers its immense saving of labor, its accuracy in spinning a good thread, and the quantity it will spin. It requires no further examination to judge it its utility than to see it operate. It is afforded at so low a price as to bring it in common use to every prac- tical farmer, and is well calculated for the employment of the inmates of our common town's poor houses — Any number of Machines can be furnishcdat the short est notice, and warranted. J»»' J*- 192 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. FOR THE NEW ENGLAXD FARMER. Tht Pig and the Connoisseurs ; or A'alure out-acted. »4n Apologut for Criticks. [Altered from Smart, a British Poet.] A wealthy cit, the other day, Having a notion for display, Built him a large, commodious stajf To show the mirror of the age, Inviited all of Thespian fame All critics too of any name. The chiefs and followers of the ton For actors, or for lookers-on. To this assemblage with the rest There came a genius who professM To have a curious trick in store To set an audience in a roar. Throughout the city this got air, And every body came to stare. The actor soon his entry made With neither prompter nor parade ; 'Twas all attention, all suspense, And silence gagg'd the audience, lie hid his head behind his wig, And with such truth took off a pig. All swore 'twas serious and no joke, And doubtless underneath his cloak — The man had hid a grunting elf, Or was a real hog himself. A search was made, no pig was found. With thundering claps the walls resound — Box, pit and galleries jointly roar, " O rare .' 0 brave ! encore ! encore I" Old Roger Grouse, a country clown, Who yet knew something of the town, And like some other countrymen Would have his notions now and then, Thought it not fair that our metropolis tiuch genuine humor should monopolize — Beheld the mimic, and his whim. And on the morrow challeng'd him, Declar'd 'twas true, as scale of Gunter, He could out-grunt the famous grunter. The trial came, but each spectator Was prejudic'd, and rank ill nature Usurp'd the minds of men and wenches. All came to hiss, and break the benclies. The mimic took his usual station. And squeak'd to gentral approbation. Again " encore I encore 1" tin y cry, " This beats the Old Nick, high and drj-."' Hut Hodge conceai'd, amid the racket, A real pig beneath his jacket — Then forth he came, and with his nail I'inch'd the poor noisy urchin's tail, 'i'he tortur'd pig, from vocal throat Four'd forth the natural swinish note ; I'it, box and gallery bawl'd " egad, '■• Sure never stuff was half so bad, " Was never actor made a greater " Departure from the line of nature — " That like a pig?" each cried in scoff, " Pshaw! nonsense! bockhead ! off! off! off!'' The mimic was extol I'd, but Grouse Was liiss'd and hustled from the house. " Hearken — one word before 1 go," Cried honest Grouse, and stooping low Troduc'd the pig, and thus aloud Address'd the stupid, partial crowd : " Behold and learn from this poor creature, " How much you critics know of nature ; " Fools will be fools in spite of art, '• While nalurt acts a natural part," From Silliman's Journal of Science. LEGHORN HATS. On the Material and Manufacture of the Italian Bonnets, and the Habits and State of Societi/ of the Manufacturers. Chateauvieux, in his ag^reeable and instruc- tive loiters, written from Italy, to Pictet, in 1812 and 1813, describes tlie persons who manufac- ture the Tiifcan bonnets, and their state of so- ciety. In his sixth letter, which is dated at Florence, are the following observations : " The road I travelled, was bordered on both sides with village houses, whose distance from each other did not exceed one hundred paces. They are all built of brick ; and the architect has bestowed upon them a justness of propor- tion, and an elegance of form, unknown in our climates. They consist of a single pavilion, that has often but one door and two windows in front. These houses are always situated along the road, and separated from it by a terrace and supporting wall, some feet in breadth. Upon this wall usually stand several vases of the an- tique shape, containing aloe plants, flowers and young orange trees. The house itself is entire- ly covered with vine branches ; so that, during summer, one knows not whether they are so ma- ny pavilions of verdure, or dwellings prepared for winter. " hi the front of these houses, swarms of young country girls are seen, dressed in white linen, with corsets of silk, and straw hats, adorned with flowers, inclining to one side of the head. They are constantly occupied: in braiding the fine plait, the treasures of this val- ley, from which the straw hats of Florence are made. " This branch of industry has becoQie the source of the prosperity of the valley of the Ar- no. It produces, yearly, three millions of livres ; which are distributed exclusively among the women ; for the men never engage in this occu pation. Each young girl buys for a few pence the straw she wants : she then exerts her skill to braid it as fine as possible ; and she herself sells, and for her own profit, the hats she has ■prepared. The money she thus earns consti tutes her portion. The father of the family has nevertheless the right to require of the women belonging to his house, a certain amount of rus- tic labor on the farm He receives this labor from the females of the mount;uns (the Appe- nines,) whom the girls of the plains pay, out of the produce of their hats, for performing the task in their stead. One of them can earn from thirty to forty sous a day in braiding her straw, while she cap hire a poor Appenine woman to do her field labor for eight or ten ; and they se- cure, by this commutation of service, the delica- cy and flexibility of their fingers necessary for their nice and fine work, and which would be spoiled by such exercises as harden and stifleu the hands. " Such, Sir, are the female peasants of the vale of the Arno ; whose grace and beauty are so celebrated by travellers ; whose language, Allieri went there to study ; and who seem, in tiict, born to embellish the arts, and lo furnish them models. They are shepherdesses of Ar- cadia, but they are not peasants — they possess only the health and freedom from care of that state, and never know its anxieties, its suu-burii- ings, and its laligues. " I have been informed, that a crop of ti acres is sufficient for all the straw of the h'e made on the lei't side, between the haunch bone, and Ihe last rib." — White's Treatise. Clayter, an English writer on Farriery, di- rects this last mentioned operation to be per- radtially into the mouth, where it undergoes a , formed in the following manner, jmplete mastication, which is termed chewing " Take a sharp pen-knife and gently intro- K- cud. The food is then again swallowed, duce it into the paunch, between the haunch m\ conveyed to the second stomach, for the bone and the last rib on the left side. This uilot opens indifterently into both. It endsuvill instantly give vent to a large quantity of ^actly where the two stomachs meet; »nd|f(Etid air ; a small tube of a sufficient length icre is a smooth gutter, with rising edges, may then be introduced into the wound,* and hich leads into the second stomach, and thencej remain there until the air is sufficiently evacu- 1 the third and fourth: the animal, however,| ated ; afterwards take out the tube, and lay a IS the power to direct it into which it will.; pitch plaister over the orifice. Wounds of this 'o second stomach is named the bonnet^ or kind are seldom attended with danger ; when it '.-ihood. Its internal surface consists of cells, I has arisen, it has been occasioned by the inju- -unibling a honey-comb; where the food un-ljicious operator introducing his knife into the wrong part. After the wind is expelled, and .'he body has been reduced to its natural state, let a cordial drench be given."' Dr. Monro, Proiessor of Anatomy at Edin- DISEASES OF CATTLE. : LIMITED AND COMPILED FROM THE BEST ACTHORS, BY THE EDITOR. Fog Sickness, Hovcn, or BloTiii. ■ We come now to treat of a class of diseases 11 more important, with respect to horned tile, than the foregoing; that is, obstruction, imperlect action, in the organs subservient .ligestion. Under this head will be brought Sickness, Hoven, or Blown ; Gripes, or Fh- • Colic; Lidigestion, loss of the Cud; and :.::ulice, or YcUons. These diseases, however, ill be better understood, if we give, in the -St place, a short description of the cow's omach. All animals, which ruminate, have ore than one stomach ; in the cow there are ut ; the first is considerably larger than the 'St, lies on the left side, and is commonly call- 1 the paunch. The food, having been suffi- lently macerated in this stomach, is forced up i^'oes a farther maceration, and is then con- 0} od to the third stomach, called manypUcs ; I cause the internal surface rises up into many Some of those folds are longer than olii- and on their surface small glands may be burgh, invented an instrument, which was in- tended to answer the same purpose with the invention of Mr. Eager, above mentioned. It consists ot iron wire about one sixteenth of an inch in diameter, twisted round a rod three eighths of an inch in diameter, and made ol polished iron, in order to give it a cylindrical form ; the wire, after being taken off the rod should be covered with smooth leather. To the end of the tube, which is intended to be passed into the stomach, a brass pipe two inches long of the same size, or rather bigger than the tube, is to be firmly connected ; and to prevent the tube from bending too much within the mouth, or gullet, an iron wire, one eighth of an inch in diameter, and of the same length as the tube, is put within, but afterwards with- drawn, when the tube has entered the stomach. As Dr. Monro has ascertained that the distance from the fore teeth to the bottom of the first stomach of a large ox, is about six feet, the tube ought to be at least two yards long, that it may operate effectually in the largest oxen. When the instrument has been introduced into the stomach, it may remain there for any length ol time, as it does not obstruct the respiration of the animal : the greater part of the condensed air will be speedily discharged thro' the tube ; ;eri, something like millet seed From this it a-ses into the fourth, or red stomach, common- . called the caul. This much resembles the uinan stomach, or that of the dog ; only the iner folds are longfor and looser. Here the ood is perfectly digested, and prepared for the ouiishment of the animal. '• When cows or sheep are turned into a fresh lasture, of a different kind from that they had )een accustomed to, they sometimes eat so ;Teedily, that tUV; stomach is incapable of con- racting, or forcing back its contents into the nouth. When this happens, the food under- lies a kind of fermentation, in consequence of vhich a great deal of air is generated, and the jnunch so excessively extended, that, if the an- nal is not relieved, it will either burst or de- troy him by suffocation. An instrument has leen invented by Mr. Eager, for giving vent to he confined air, which is very simple and ap- riears to have answered the i)urpose completely it consists of a cane six feet in length, with a iround knob of ivood, perfectly secured at one lend. An assistant is to lay hold of the cow's horn with one hand, and the part which divides the nostrils with the other. The operator is to take the tongue in his left hand, and with his Iright he is to force the instrument down the Iguliet. As soon as it enters the paunch a great deal of air will rush out. The instrument may * This may be of elder, sumach, or a turkey, or goo3C quill. and should any ardent spirits, or other liquor calculated to check the fei'inentatioii, be deem- ed necessary, it may be safely injected through this pipe. In short, the flexible lube here des- scribed, has been (bund of infinite service in saving the lives of cattle and especially of sheep, when subject -to similar disorders, or any other swelling peculiar to those creatures.* The 33d vol. of Mr. Voung's Annals of Agri- culture, announces the following recii)C as a spe- cific for this disease, even in the most desper- ate cases; effecting a cure within the short space of half an hour. Take three quarters of a pint of olive oil, and one pint of melted butter or hog's lard ; give this mixture by means of a horn or bottle ; and if it docs not jiroduce a fa- vorable change in a quarter of an hour, repeat the same quantity and walk the animal gently about. For sheep attacked with this malady, the dose is from a wine glass and an half to two glasses. The following simple remedy we have been told is efiectual, but cannot say to what extent it may be relied on. Make about a pint of lie, either with hot embers thrown into a sufficient quantity of water, or by dissolving therein about an ounce of pot or pearl ash, and turn it down the throat of the ox or cow afiected. A pro- portionably less quantity is said to answer for a sheep. This medicine, we are informed, ope- rates by neutralizing and absorbing the carbonic acid gas in the stomach of the creature, which causes the swelling and other symptoms to sub- side. We wish this remedy might be tried, and its results made public. We suspect, however,- that in extreme cases, it will bo necess&ry cither to make at incision, or make use of Dr. IMun- ro's fiexiblf tube, or Mr. Eager's cane with a knob of wood at its end. Where the danger, however, does not appear to be imminent, there is little doubt but that either the oil and lard, or the He, as mentioned above, would prove effectual. When the animal has obtained relief by the means mentioned above, one of the following drinks is by Dr. White recommended to be giv- en. No. 1. Powdered ginger. Spirit of nitrous ether, Oil of peppermint,- Warm water, (Mix tor one dose.) No. 2. Powdered caraway, Ginger, Warm ale, [or warm water,] 1 pint. (Mix.) No. 3. Powdered gentian, Cascarilla bark. Warm ale, [or water,] (Mix.) An infusion of camomile flowers and ginger is also a good stomachic in such cases. When cattle have sufferer a severe attack of this disease, the stomach i'^ generally weakened by it ; great care, therefore, is necessary, in or- i OZ. 2 oz. 30 drops. 1 pint. oz. dr. 1 nz. 2 dr. 1 pint. »Set3 Domestic Eucyclrpedia, Art. Cattle. 194 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. der to prevent a return. For several days af- ter, they sho'jid be fed rather sparingly, or not be allowed to eat much at one time ; and every | inorning and f;\rn'mg, for three or four days, ! may taUe one of the above drenches. j Sheep are liable to a similar disease, and may ! be relioved by the same remedies. The instru- ment, however, employed for sheep, need not be more than three feet in lenjfth ; it should al- no be ?raaller and more flexible. It has been said that a common carl whi]), may, on emer- gencies, be made to answer the purpose, if used with dexterity. Any one, unaccu'^foiiied to handle cattle, would llnd some difficulty in using; Mr. Eager's instru- ment ; but if the horn be held firmly with the left baud, and the part which divides the nos- trils be grasped fi:mly with the right hand, the animal will generally submit quietly to the ope- rator. (to DF. COSTI.VCID.) Although we do not fully concur with the author of the following Address in alt the opin- ions it contains, we fully appreciate its gen- eral merit?, and are therefore pleaso :.u.... ital, viz. hoiv much land and labor, are required, to produce one hundred dollars north of grain or stock of any kind, and what is the expense of sending it to market; and we may thus ascer- tain pretty nearly which may be rendered most profilable. From the above reasoning too, we should en- courage labor-saving machines in hu-^bandry ; as this tends to give us an advantage over those countries where lands are dear, by enabling a smaller capital to yield a greater profit. Thus, if labor in England be worth two -hillings per day, and here it is worth four shillings, then a machine performing the labor of two days in one, is of double the value to us that it is there. Again, from a neglect of reasoning, we often waste our labor, and of course throw away so much of the active capital of the country, by di- recting it to unproductive objects, from a defer- ence io authority. We adopt foreign produc- tions and modes "of farming, without inquiring why they are valuable abroad, or whether these reasons do not fail here. 1 might mention ma- ny cases of this kind — for instance, in England, turnips form a cheap and invaluable winter I'ood for stock : they are therefore male a leading crop. We are thence led to think them equally important here for the same purpose, while we neglect to remark, that there the ground is open nearly the whole winter, and the t'rost never se- vere ; so that most of the turnips arc fed with- out even the labor of removing tbem from the ground ; but that here, they must be secured I'rom iVosts at great risk and expense, for months, and are moreover useless for feed at the time whenmost needed, from the severity of the weather. The ruta baga is of the same class — it is valuable there, as wintering better than the turnip, and thus supplying a chasm in feeding between turnips and grass in the spring. To us, as a crop for feeding, it tills no chasm, and .serves no purpose that is not equally well done by potatoes, which are as easily raised, more easily preserved, and nearly four times as nu- tritious; and vet, to support a theory, we are asked bv an individual* to believe that the po- tatoe (which to us is of more worth than the collective value of all other esculents,) _is a mere compound of " dirt, water and stra-u'. ' Our climate is such that we can never expect to have a supply of green feed for our stock through the winter on a large scale, because, (aside from the difficulty of preserving it,) it is impossible that it should be eaten in the open air, at those times when it is most needed. t n moderate weather, and do without it in sea^ sons of extreme cold, when it is impossible to eat it. A small quantity of oats or corn meal, fed regularly through the winter, will do equal- ly well, may be fed in all weathers, and will keep stock oi' any kind in health and strength. Sheep do perfectly well in this way ; and if their lambs are not suffered to fall before the twenty-fifth of April or first of May, when they are secure from cold storms, and when the ewes may find a supply of green feed on our rye-lields and early pastures, they do equally well as if fed wilh turnips or ruta baga through that case grass should make one in a rotation of crops ; aud the plough will become the implement in most constant requisition. In short, no general rule on this subject can be given, which has not about as many exceptions as coincidences. "Mr. Cobbett. t But perhaps it is as dilBcult to preserve potatoes, and apply them to the feeding of stock in very cold •weather, as it is to preserve turnips, ruta baga, or man- gel wurtzel. We have already given a mode of pre- serving these roots, [N. E. Farmer, No. 14, page 106] which has not only been successfully practised by Mr. Buel, of Albany, from whose ess.iy it was copied, but has been iu use by a gentleman in this vicinity for a number of years, and as we are informed wilh perfect success. On the whole, we will copy again this mode, to save our readers the trouble of turning over our files (which we wish may be preserved to the third and fourth generation) any oftener than is necessary. " Be it known, therefore, that mangel wurtzel, tur- nips, ruta baga, and we presume potatoes and other roots, may be preserved by digging about one foot deep upon the side of a hill, leaving the bottom inclining, and sulTiciently broad each way to be able to pile in the space, in the form of a cone, 100 bushels [not more lest they heat, ferment and spoil.] Place the roots iu it, aud bring the top to a point as far as practicable. Cover with straw and then dirt. They will bear con- siderable frost without injury. Take care to dig a trench round the mound to turn off water. In March, or perhaps February, you may break through the frost, and take out the roots, lay them on your barn floor, and cover them with hay or straw ; from whence they may be fed to cattle." When the roots are placed in their winter quar- ters care must be taken not to heap too much dirt on them at first, lest they should heat and spoil. More may be added as the weather becomes colder. In the last number of the Massachusetts Agricultural Repository [June 1822, page 165] .Mr. Prince, a prac- tical farmer, of Roxbury, Mass. says, " 1 really wish farmers generally, would be prevailed on to raise a o-reater quantity of vegetables for the use of their stork than they have been in the habit of doing. Swedislj turnips, and mangel wurtzel (of the true sorts.) are very easily raised, and every farmer has land suitable for them. These roots with care, even in pits, out of doors, may be preserved till May or .Tune, and yield generally double the quantity that the same land would yield iu potatoes. Indeed, with me I have usually had more than three times as many bushels to the acre, and with, I think, no more labor. Mangel Wurtzel will by their thinnings and trimmings, if done with care, pay all the labor of the crop, and give a fine evening food for the cows, and is also an excellent food for swine.'' The Hon. Timothy Pickering lias given his opinion likewise in favor of .Mangel Wurtzel, and we believe the credit of that root is too firmly established to be easily shaken in this part of the country. With regard to potatoes being nearly " four times as nutritious" as well as being " as easily raised" as the other roots above mentioned, we must beg leave to enter our dissent ; and in addition to our preceding re- marks would observe, that, although according to fir Humphry Davy, the quantity of soluble or nutritious matter in a thousand parts of potatoes is from 260 to 200, while the soluble or nutritious matter in the same aumber of parts of the Swedish turnip, or ruta baga, is but. 64, yet the saccharine matter or sugar iu the Swed- the season. And though the practice of grer feeding through the winter is much talked ■ by theorists, it is presumed there is not a pr tical farmer in the state, who pursues it re^' larly to any great extent. j" .So with regard to leguminous crops, as* f starting poiiit in our rotation of crops, whi( "' are so constantly recommended. They a profitable in England, for reasons before givei but with us, with the exception of peas, ai ' in some few of beans, they are utterly inadm sible on a large scale, in any general system farming — for two reasons, first because th( '] cannot be regularly fed through the wint< - when most needed — and secondly, because thi require too much labor in their cultivatic We have not the labor to spare, and half o ■ fields would lie waste, if we had first to cov ' tliem with turnips, cabbage, ruta baga, or C3 -': rots, before we were permitted to sow the H'ith wheat. IMuch is said of a proper rotation of cruj but I apprehend it all results in this — that en larmer should regard his own peculiar ph. and vary his crops to his wants, taking ca ■■ never to exhaust his lands by long continu cropping, or by successive crops of the sat l\ed. This is by some, supposed to be the natural consequence of the clearing oiT the forests, and hiving the I Aicc of the earth more open to the evaporation of the sun and wind — whatever may be the i cause, it is no part of my present object to ac- i coimt for it ; I will leave that to the philoso- I pher. — .\ssuming such to be the fact, my object ' is to invite the farmer to turn his attention to such improvement of his means, as to secure himself and his country from part of the evil, i which may otherwise ensue on the failure of crops ; either from drought, ot from the infinite I variety of devouring reptiles : the security from both, is perhaps, to be sought for, with the most llattering prospect of success, by the recurrence to this species of land for improvement and cul- tivation ; as the Grub, from which we have siif- iered so extensively, for the three last years, has never been observed to resort to those lands, which are sulliciently saturated with moisture. It is an observation frequently made, that farmers are peculiarly wedded to their habits, are inordinately attached to their particular mode and p-rocess of cultivation, because they are derived from their ancestors, and are sanc- tioned by their experience — this is all natural— but farmers like other men, must change their habits with the change of circumstances, they are hawk eyed to see where there interest may be promoted, and if they are not much given to speculation and enterprise, when any improve- ment is introduced they are not slow to discern its advantage, and adopt it. When the venerable Pilgrims, our lathers, first migrated to this country, they were a feeble band, and in slender circumstances ; they had a wilderness before them, and wants and hunger pressing on their rear — they could not adopt the .slender improvements in agriculture then known in the mother country — they could only avail themselves of the few plats of ground cleared by the natives to deposit their seed corn ; when that was done, they necessarily cleared for their further improvement, that which was within their means, that which could bo effect- ed with the least possible labor, and would make them the most immediate return ; this of course, was the upland, and those of the lightest consistence, as best calculated to furnish them with that necessary article (and of dillicult ac- quisition) bread; this was necessarily their first object of pursuit ; and this the foundation of that system of farming, which by a view of the pres- ent face of the country, will be judged to have been loo literally foUowod by their successors, although relieved from that " imperious neces- sity," whose iron grasp pressed so heavily upon their fathers. Tlie circumstances of the Yeo- manry of the country, are now easy and inde- pendent, and this is the day of improvement— their industry if excited to enterprise, under the wise and discreet patronage and encouragement of agricultural societies, is capable (if not of counteracting the seasons) of subduing nature, and making her tributary to their necessities, comforts and luxuries. It is with satisfaction 1 ol.'scrve the Agricultural Society of this county, have wisely turned their attention to this neg- lected object of agriculture, and have otVered thei;' premium tor the encouragement of those, who shall successfiilly reclaim a .specified quan- tity of swamp or fresh meadow to Lngli.-h mow- ing— this is wise and discreet in them, and there are perhaps some whose circumstances and situ- ation may enable them to avail themselves of the encouragement, and to their own exceeding profit; but it is no part of my desire to exei a quixotic enterprise, even in this laudable pi ' suit — such an undertaking as may induce iof <^'' vidual embarrassment — my wish is to route tl ^ general attention of all those who may ha' *'' such waste lands near or on their homesteaj '•'' and make it a sort of common-place object, whei •■■' they may profitably employ themselves ai "- their laborers, in their broken hoxirs err days. < when our objects are not imperative; and if '■'■ this way they may reclaim forty rods in the yea ^- they will have added so much to their capita i"^ and will have placed it at compound interest 1 am aware that this county can never be di|r^ tinguished as an agricultural county ; if it evt arrives at distinction, it must be as a manufai turing district, for which iti numerous strcan olVer so many facilities, but in this view its agr culture is of importance as the hand-maid, or i even the pillar on which manufactures must b supported — and manufactures also when mor largely established and endowed, will rea- on the improvement of agriculture ; for the must have observed but very little, who hay not remarked the bold and liberal spirit of iir provement, which persons bred to trade or mar ufictures have often exerted on the improve ment and embellishment of their land estate.' that they usually come to them with a mcc abundant command of ready money, than niof farmers possess ; and that they have generally by long habits of calculation, better a.id mori enlarged ideas of the propriety of expending, ii order to acquire ; a\id by these moans numer ou«, beautiful and flourishing villages have al ready been erected in the wilderness, and sorai where nothing before but the footsteps of th< savage, or the prowling wolf were known ti roam, and how has agriculture had reason ti bic-s that happy alliance — and how miserabh must the policy of that government be whici would disjoin the agricultural, manulacluring and commercial interests, or make one tributari or subservient to the other. YK0;M.\N. THE FARMER. DOSTOK .■—SATlRU.iY, J^i.Y. 18, IC2J. LMPRO\KiMENTS IN HUSBA.NDRY, AND .NEW IMPLEMENTS OF AGRICULTURE. The excellent Address of Mr. Garnett, delivered Ic- fore the Frederlcksburgh Agricultural Society, in Vir- ginia, and published in our paper, No. 21, page 104, contains some humorous and happy illustrations of the slow march of improvcnnnts in husbandry, and the pertinacity with which some farmers adhere to old customs, although very absurd and inconvenient. It is owing, principally, to this obstinate predilection to established usages, that agriculture has, till within half a century past, been so much in the rear of some other less useful arts, and exhibited but feeble traces of that march of mind, which has been evinced by advances in chemistry, botany, mineralogy, and the whole circle of those sciences, which give to civilized man his best founded claims to superiority over the undisciplined and unlettered savage. The prejudice of the Virginia cultivators in favor of their unwieldy, inconvenient, old-fashioned ploughs, was ridiculous enough, and the folly of that foolishness, which indue- i ed them to persevere in the palli of error, afier cxperi» I ment, the unerring test of utility, had pointed Qut IL I better way, may as well bo laugh'^d at as gravely re- buked. NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 199 ihis reluctance to adopt evident improvements ii» new in the history of man, and has ever been l:irly prominent in the annals of agriculture. — 1 1' no doubt but even our New England farmers rought with poor tools, when better might be .ud which would, at least, " in the long run," re cheaper than those which they ought to supcr- t'e would, not, howerer, censure our cultivators for bliudly and precipitately adopting every practice ch is stated to be an improvement. But as res- ts tools of every day employment, when many times ire inspection, and almost always a short trial would fc some to be more useful than others, to adhere to se which are least commodious, and to refuse to ce even an experiment with a new one, merely bc- " father didnt do so," or "neighbor Blucskin ! it won't do," is a kind of pertinacity which dc- ■es to make its possessor a mark for all the arrows ch the quiver of wit can furnish. Ve believe, however, that many farmers of Great taia arc more obstinately attached to silly, expeo- aud unhandy customs, than any of our yankee tivators. And if Brother Jonathan is sometimes a e backward about embracing new and useful ira- vements, John Bull is often a very paragon of awk- d obstinacy. An English autlior (Lawrence, on it Cattle,) mentions a report of " a gentleman who ■ks eight large oxen on a plough, whatever the soil, ■ng or weak, fresh or fallow ;" and says he lias wit- sed " in an English district, where as good laboring n are bred as we have in England, farmers often :e ten oxen together to one plough, and stand to it iy, as a matter of necessity ; which I should by no lus controvert were the exertions of the brutes equal tiffness and cucrjy to the prejudiced arguments of ir masters." t is likewise observed by Sir John Sinclair, that >e introduction of new implements into a district, is n a matter of the greatest difficulty, owing to the jrancc, the prejudicej, and the obstinacy of farm 'ants and laborers. Many faru^ers, therefore, very urJly retain their old implements, though convinced heir inferiority, rather than sour the temper of their Drers, by attempting to introduce new ones. In ay cases, however, they have succeeded by atten- 1, by perseverance, and by rewarding theii' servants 0 have been induced to give the new macliiaes a ■ trial." The yeomen of New England are too enlightened to under the dominion of such unprofitable prejudices. ey will assent to our assertion, when we say that a n who works with a poor instrument, when a better 1 conveniently be had, is himself But little better than " a tool, 1 Which knaves do work with, call'd a fool." :|J>V'c are therefore happy to perceive that a Shop or irehouse, for the sale of Agricultural Implements, is ablished by Mr. J. R. Newell, No. 20, Merchant's w, Boston, where Ploughs, Cultivators, Porks, Hoes, . i:c. itc. of the latest and most improved construe- as, are to be sold, at a cheap rate, and of an excel- t quality. th.-tt ever belonged to his spicies — is fleet as the Bu- bloody war, the principal battles wore fought, has been ccphrdus of Alexander, strong as the largest and most powerful English dray horse, and docile as a lap-diig, still, if his feet are defective, he is good for nolhiiij;-. An altiution, therefore, to the " Diseases of the Keet connected with shoeing," (the principal object of thi? treatise,) is of primary importance. Dr. lYiiiklin, somewhere, tells us of a horse's being badly shod, which caused the loss of the horse, and the loss of the liorse occasioned the destruction of his rider ; and this last greatest of all disasters was the consequence of the rider's not possessing such a treatise as we are recom- mending, and paying a proper attention to its direc- tions. Should any person hereafter, who has a dollar to spare for this work, refuse to purchase it, and thus meet destruction in the way warned against by Dr. Franklin, the verdict of the Coroner's Jury ought to be ftlo de sc ; or in English, this man^s neck ii-cis broken in cojueqxunce of his otrn carthss^ie^f. NEW SYSTEM OF SHOEING HORSES. In our paper of Nov. 30, page 142, we took notice a work entitled Goodwin's " .VeM System of Slioe- »r Horses,'''' &c. and beg leave once more to turn t attention of such of our readers as are, or ex- ] :t to be, benefited by the labors of that valuable and iL'.L- animal the Horse, to this little treatise, which Qtj'-^ jiln.i for doubling our Subscriiilion Lisl.^i^ We have thought of a scheme, which, if put in exe- cution, will be sure to benefit the public, as well as prove serviceable to our establishment. This is, sim- ply, for each of our subscribers to procure us at least one other subscriber ; and we hereby authorize each and every lady and gentleman, who takes the N. E. Farmer, to become our agent for that purpose. Those who do not like this project, will of course let it alone, but we can assure them that our advice is dictated by pure patriotism, with a slight tincture of regard to our own interest. FARMER SUMMARY OF NEWS. be had at any of the principal bookstores in this If a horse has naturally all the good qualities Waterloo, and other places, where, durin, in Congress but little business capable of detail in our paper has yet been completed. The MA6s.icih- SETIS Lecislatl'RE is likewise principally engagetl in concerns of a local and private nature. In both those bodies as much harmony and unanimity prevail as is consistent with freedom of discussion, and that amicable collision, which is necessary to elicit the Light of truth. — FOR.F.1GN. — A late arrival at New York, has brought London dates to December 5th, which are much more interetthig than usual. The Congress of \'erona is broken up, or rather split into several sections. That part which is to regulate Spain, is to sit in Paris ; the portion which is to control Italy, is to hold its meetings at Vienna ; and tlie Emperor Alexander, wherever he may be, is to take charge of the resf of Europe. France seems to be determined to restore the old or- der of things in Spain, either by force or menaces. Some accounts say that a body of the French army of Obser- vation has already penetrated into Spain, others that Spain is to have a little time to accede to the decisions of the Congress, and to ward off the meditated blow by submission. The Cortes, on the contrary, shew no disposition to submit to French dictation, and appear to be determined to manage their own affairs in their own way. If war does not follow, one or the other party must haul in their horns, and if it should take place, it is inpossible to foresee how many nations will become parties. Great Britain seems determined on neutrality. Probably the government tends one way, and (he peo- ple the other, and in this way John Bull seems suspend- ed on the horns of a dilemma, and will, it is to be hoped, be kept out of mischief. On the 20th of Oct. the Turkish and Greek fleets met, and a combat took place which lasted six hours, and was obstinately contested. A part of the Greek fleet was kept out of action by adverse winds and cur- rents, but they succeeded in repulsing their opponents. The Greeks fought bravely, for they fought hi presence of their wives and children who covered the hills and shore. It is estimated that moro than a million bushels of bones, human and inhuman, were imported last year from the Continent of Europe, into the port of Hull in England. The neighborhood of Ijeipsic, Austerlitz and the late swept alike of tlii^ boni s of the horse and his rider, shijiped to the port of Hull, and forv.-arded to the York- shire bone grinders, wliu have er< cted 5t(ani ( ngint.", with powerlul niachjiii ry, for the jiurpo.'e of riducing thiin to a grauulary stati . In Ihis situation tiny are sent, chiefly to Doncasti r, one of the largest agrif ultu- ral markets in that part of the country, and sold In far- mers to manure their lands. The oily substance gradu- ally evolving as the bone calcines, it is said, niukcs a more powerful aud substantial manure than almost any other substance. This is remarkably the case with human bones. A dead soldier is thus made an article of lommerce ; and it is possible that the Yorkshire far- mers may thus be indebted to the bones of their chil- dren for their daily bread. There has lately occurred a terrible hurricane, a-.- companied with an inundation, in Genoa. Bridge.-, trees, and houses, were swept away by torrents descend- ing from the mountains. The Lazaretto, a fine and massy building, containing a large quantity of merchan- dize, was borne away by the violence of the waters.— The environs of the city presented an immense lake of muddy water, with here and there tops of trees and the second stories of houses, rising above the element. The townof Port-au-Priuce, St. Domingo, was nearly destroyed by fire, which broke out on the night of the 16th ult. and was not got under until the lOtli. A Frenchman named Jacques, who is termed the French Giant, is exhibiting himself in England. — He is seven feet four inches in height, (and is yet a youth,) is well formed, aud of amazing muscular powers, DOMESTIC. — The whole number of passengers ar- riving from foreign ports, in the ports of the U. States, from the 1st of Oct. 1C21, to the 30th Sept. 1822, is reported by the Secretary of State to have been 8482 ; r)241 males, and 113G females — the sex of the remain- der not being reported to the Department of State. Edward P. P< rley, who kept a store in Market St. was arraigned before the Police Court last Saturday, rharged with having purloined goods from the store of Messrs. Draper ^ .^tone. He was ordered to recognize in the sum of $-1000, with sureties, for his appearance at the Municipal Court. Gin. Chandler has been re-elected to the Senate of the United States, for the State of Maine, for six years from the 4th of March next. Counterfeit $5 and $2 bills of the Concord, N. H. bank, are in circulation. The paper is of a lighter and more spongy kind, than the genuine. None but the above description, are knov.n to be counterfeited. At Richmond, Va. on the first of Jan. nearly all the printing materials in the oflice of a paper called thp Hornet, were destroyed by a mob of 15 or £0 persons with blackened faces. The Legislature of N. Carolina has abolished impris- onment for debts contracted after the 1st of May next. The U. S. Navy list shews that one hundred offi- cers, or one eighth of the whole number, have resigned or died during the past year. Flour 110 dollars per barrel .' — The Baltimore A- merican of Friday says, "Late accounts from the Pa- cific, received in this city last evening, via Panama an^ Chagres, announce that flour had risen to one hiindrtd and ten dollars per barrel at Guayaquil." Faehionublc Amusement. — Among the holiday sports of the season, a writer in the Freeman's Journal de- scribes a Bull-bail, witnessed by him at Rose Hill, near Philadelphia, on Tuesday last, in colors calculated to excite the attention of the magistrates of a country less distinguished for humanity than the " city of broth- erly love." — -V. Y. Statesman. Several families have recently sailed from N. York for St. Augustine, E. Florida, to settle upon the Alach- ua tract, so called, which is represented to be the rich- est tract in Florida, producing sugar cane and rice in abinidance. These lands are valued from one to two dollars per acre. Purcell, the free man of color, who gave information of the late intended insurrection in the state of South Carolina, has been handsomely rewarded by the Ifgis- lature of that state. They have allowed him $1(10 a. year for life, and exempt liiia acd his family from taxa.- tiou. •200 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. From the New-Brunswick Advertiser. A SO.NG, Written by John J. Barker of this city, and sung at the Spring- meeting of the Agricultnral Society of New- Brunswick, on the 24th April, 1821. A Farmer's life's the life for mc, I own i love it dearly ; And ev'ry season, full of glee. I take its labor cliecrly — To plough or sow, To reap or mow ; Or in the barn to thresh, Sir, All's one to me, I plainly see 'Twill bring me health and cash, rii To customers the merchant shows His best broad-cloths and satin ; In hopes to sell a suit of clothes — But lo ! they beg a pattern — Which pinn'd on sleeve. They take their leave — " Perhaps they'll buy — since low 'tis" — And if they do. The sale he'll rue. When paid, Sir, with a " notice." — |l The Priest has plagues, as nndesir'd. When flatter'd with a call. Sir, For tho' he preach like one inspir'd, He cannot please 'em all, Sir. Some wanting grace, Laugh in his face, While solemnly he's prosing ; Some sneeze or cough, Some shuffle off — And some arc even dozing. The lawyer leads a harass'd life, Much like a hunted Otter, And, 'tween his own and others' striiV , He's Etlways in hot yra.tcr. For foe or friend A cause defend, However wrong, must he, Sir, fn reason spite Maintain 'tis right— And dearly earn his fee, Sir. The Doctor's styl'd a gentleman. But this 1 hold but humming ; For like a tavern waiting man, To ev'ry call he's " coming" — Now here, now there, Must he repair, Or starve, Sir, by denying ; Like death himself, Unhappy elf, He lives by other's dying. The soldier dcck'd in golden lace. Looks wond'rous fine, I own. Sir. Ent still I envy not his place — Wlieu batter'd to the bone, Sir. To knock my head Against cold lead, I never had a notion ; If that's the way To rank, I say — Excuse m'; the proniotioa. The sailor lives but in a jail. With all the risk besides. Sir, Of pillage, founder, and of gale — This cannot be deny'd, Sir. While 1 so snug Enjoy my mug. Or kiss my wife and so forth — When rain and storm The nights deform. His duty bids him go forth. A farmer's life, then let me live, Obtaining, while I lead it, Enough for self, and some to give To such poor souls as need it. I'll drain and fence. Nor grudge expense To give my land good dressing ; I'll plough and sow, Or drill in row. And hope from Heav'n a blessing. AGRICULTURE. From the New Hampshire Sentinel. CHESHIRE .AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY. At a meeting- of the Cheshire Agricultural So- ciety at Col. Drew's in Walpole, on the first day of January instant, the follovring premiums upon Agricultural products were awarded by the executive committee. To Bela Chase, of Cornish, for the best crop of wheat on old ground, being 44 bushels on one acre and 22 rods of land, $^,00 By the statement of Mr. Chase, accompany- ing his application, it appears that this piece of land is a part of a loamy pine plain. That pre- vious to 1820 it had been for some years alter- nately in tillage and mowing. In 1820 and 21 was planted with corn, and in the latter year highly manured, quantity not stated. In the spring of 1821 the land was first ploughed deep, the manure spread and covered by a shallow ploughing, planted, and the corn carried off the ground the first week in September. The pro- duce as ploughed in the better for the succeeding crop, and the more fertilizing to the soil. But when this plan is adopted, it is neces- sary to sow the wheat or rye upon a single ploughing, and harrow in the seed. The for- mer system pursued throughout Pennsylvania and this Valley, is generally exploded, histead of breaking the fallows early in the spring, stir- ing them once or twice during the summer, and again in the fall at seeding time, the more eco- nomical and better jtlnn i*; .nJopfcd, of sufFering: the Held to lie in grass during the summer, eith- er for hay, pasture, or to be ploughed in, in toto, where the land was poor and required such aid. But in this case oare is taken not to disturb the sod or vegetable mass deposited beneath the furrow. The ploughing is done in August or September, and after lying two, three or four week*, to meliorate by exposure to the inlluence of rain and air, the seed is sown and harrowed in lengthwise ; that is in the direction of the ploughing. This is done in order to prevent the harrows turning up the sod. The harrows to be large and weighty, with strong, s/wry), iron teeth. Those I use are H feet square, with 24 teeth, 12 inches long, 1| inches square, and projecting below six inches. If a single iiarrowing does not reduce the surface to a good tilth, it may be harrowed again, and the second harrowing may cross the first, if it is found not to disturb the sod. The mass of vegetable mat- ter now buried beneath the surface, and exclud- ed from the inlluence of the air, ivill perish, and soon enter into the incipient state of fermenta- tion, and afford both warmth and fertility to the roots of the grain. This system of husbandry is applicable to such soils as are sufliciently loose and friable to crumble before the harrow, fit'teen or twenty days after ploughing. It is not adapted to stum- py or stony land, or such as is so stiff or tena- cious that it cannot be reduced by a single ploughing and harrowing. But as it is a pecu- liar property of clover to meliorate the soil, it rarely happens that land clothed with a thick crop of it, two or three years, does not lose its accessive adhes)\ eness, and crumble bel'ore the plough. Few plants so easily enter into a state of decomposition, and disengage so much carbonic acid gas, as clover; but as all plants or grasses do, in a greater or less degree, they must all contribute to the fertility of the soil, if ploughed in. Some of our perennials are subdued with diQiculty, and decompose slowly, and none more so than the blue grass. It is necessary that this grass should be completely turned wider, and not again disturbed by the plough, if intended to be sown in wheat, unless the lirst ploughing had been done during the winter. In that case, stir- ring the land in the spring, and again in the summer, would be advisable. The amount then, of^ what I have said on this subject, is, that the more vegetable matter is turned vnder (/ic/iirrotf, the better; but that it is absolutely requisite that it should be comjiletrtly buried, es- pecially blue grass, and not again brought to the surface by stirring with the plough or cross- harrowing. If the grass is too rank to be ploughed in, (even with the aid of a long chain attached to tlie beam, to prostrate it before the conifer) it will be better to use the scythe. — Clover may be mown in September, when brown, and reserved for feed. In this case it will be unnecessary to sow clover seed the succeeding spring. Your next inquiry relates to gathering and preparing clover seed for market. The man- agement of this requires a judicious attention to the order in which the clover i^, when put into the barn or stacks, and the state of the weather when the seed is to be separated from the pug or chaff, which envelopes it. If the clover is moivn, it should be quite brown (or black) be- fore it is cut, and immediately raked into win- nows or small heaps, and suffered to lie exposed to rain or dew, until the sap and juices of the plant have mostly evaporated. It must then, when in a dry state, be hauled into the barn or built into good ricks, and there remain until January or February, when the air is cold and in its driest state. The heads are then to be ' detached from the straw by threshing with flails, ! and using rakes. This is an expeditious part of ' the process, as the heads separate with great facilifj'. These heads are then placed in a ring, on a good tight floor, and tread with hor- I ses until the whole mass is reduced to a tine j powder, resembling scotch snufl'. If the seed is good and perfectly dry, and the weather in that state which would make tobac- co crumble into powder, by handling it roughly, six horses may tread out ten bushels in a day ; — but if the weather is humid or evengivy, (as (he tobacco planters term it) this quantity cannot be got out, with the same force of hands and two horses, in two days. Tobacco, in this case, af- lords an excellent hygrometer to ascertain the l)roper state of the air for this operation. To prevent the dust, which rises during the tread- ing, becoming both offensive and injurious, it is proper to keep open the barn doors, and permit a free passage of air. Shovels must be kept employed to throw up the clover chaff, and con- fine it to the ring traversed by the horses. The next operation is to pass it through a common wheat fan, turning it very slowly, and preserving the chaff which falls nearest to the !iK HI ceil Pill' 4e 5B gill nil if riddle, as that contains seed not yet detaclu from the pug. This may be trod a second lira or sown in that state. What passes through tl fan mast now be riddled through a cock ridille, and lastly through a clover riddle, (eas ly obtained in Baltimore or Philadelphia) whic will permit the seed, and that only, to pai through. This last operation will general some dust, which (if the seed is for marke may be thrown olf by passing it once moi through the fan. Lut if you use a machine for collecting th clover heads, suffer them to lie in heaps, forn ed like a hay cock, two or three weeks. Da ing this time they will undergo a slight dcgrc of fermentation and heat, (of course.) which, a ter getting thoroughly dry, will greatly facil tate the operation of treading out the seed.- Let this be done, as in the other cas€, in co dry weather. I have now. Sir, treated the subject of yon, request pretty diffusely, as it was your wish tha 1 should be minute; and if any information i communicated, from which you can derive in struction or advantage, it will afford me plea sure to have contributed thereto. I am. Sir, with respect, Your very humble servant, R. P. BARTON CiF.op.oE E. II.iRRiso.v, Brandon. Springdule, Jidy 22d, 1C20. From the American Farmer. L.Uiccmdte or Tunisian Broad Tail Sheep, are em plwticalty tlie Farmers'' Sheep. BL-lmont, near Philad. Jan. 5th, 1C2.' Df.ah Sir, 1 was mortified to perceive in a late '• Aineri can Fiiriner.''' that you had been unsuccessful ii your pair of Tunis Sheep ; which had neithc answered your expectations as to their capacit' lo pro-create, nor in the quality of the wool.— These forbidding defects, especially the former may tend to discourage our farmers in their en deavours to obtain and multiply this valuable race. Mr. Jefferson's account of his sheep would corroborate the idea that your shee{i were not singular. I should be sorry, indeed) that such opinions .should prevail generally ; al- though I cannot entertain any doubts of the facts you state, 1 must contidentlj' repeat my formei assertions, as to the generative and all other fac- ulties of this race of the Lalicauda-, from my ex- perience of', and personal attention to them, for a period of fourteen years. I never had, or heard of, a similar failure in any of the sheep, whereof I have given an account in our second volume of Memoirs. In my early life, I had a tine flock of English and other sheep — finer an- imals of the kind, I have never since seen. I spared no care or expense in relation to them ; and was then well acquainted with the qualities and modes of treatment ol these valuable parti of our farm stock. I paid, at one time, a sum for four South-Downs, which, although trifling, compared with modern prices, was accounted a most extravagant expenditure. I mention this circumstance, merely to shew my early and long acquaiutance with the subject. I must confirm, without hesitation, all I have said, both as to the qualities of the Tunis Sheep, and the superiori- ty of the wool. Many of my sheep bore fleeces not only far more abundant; but incomparably lOfe viiUiablc than those of the best common r, !■ .L _ il 11 1 l.^r. leep. NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 203 Some of the fleeces would bear two, ad soim tiircc cuts in the length of the wool, t'hatnext the pelt wnsfiirrt/ and soft ; so that I ave had gloves and stockings made of it, equal ) fleecy hosiery. I have had better cloth made f this wool, when judiciously selected, than I ould obtain from that of common sheep, by ma- y deTOPs. Alcrino'! were then Unknown. As J their prolii'c capacities, no doubt can he en- srtained, pro7.irfc(/ the right k'nd be procured. [1 this 1 may have been peculiarly lucky ; yet 1 I, nt one time, was seized with a zeal for breeding of //orsc,9. In 1777, when the IJritish took possession of our city and its environs, I had a number of high blooded young Colts, which I tailed in having driven otT from one of my farms. Ten or eleven of them were shot down by the Hessian or Yager banditti, for their skins. This was a damper to my equestrian propensi- ties. When I returned to my domicil, I found my farm near the city, desolated and temporari- ly ruined — houses and fiirm buildings all b\irnt ; and all enclosures and much forest timber taken m satisfied that enough of the same class can be i away. Yet the wanton destruction ofthe young btained, by carelul and intelligent persons.— Vhero are there any other breeders which ould produce a lamb at twice the age of those iJheep ? My Selima yeaned a healthy lamb in ler sixtcciUli year. All of the race may not do his^ — but all 1 have known retained fecundity nuch longer than any other race of sheep. — Their freedom from all diseases incident to otli- r sheep, may have assisted this natural perfec- ion. Tliey yeaned with much more ease, and ew if any casualties occurred in lambing. — ^I lave, now, none of this breed I can recom- aend. Your pair may not be prolific, yet may be of . good kind, except as to the wool. How many i.iir of comely and promising Bipeds do we see, rithout progeny ? Were we to generalize such istances, we should tremble under the appro- icnsion that the human race would cease to increase and multiply, and replenish the earth.f Mttius' alarms would then be nugatory indeeq. In my account of the Tunis sheep, vol. 2d, •age 221, 1 relate the dilliculty of a Tup ofthe ommon kind, coupling with a Tunis Ewe. But 0 such difficulty is experienced either with a ommon ewe, or with a female Laticaudu:. N"a- ure is too wisely directed, to permit any Impe- iments to their intercourse. I %vould not bo nderstood to say, that the Tunis fleece is com- larable to that of really tine wooled sheep. But ts abundance, its not being deciduous, and its ipplicability to all common uses, for which fine vool is unfit, far overbalance its inferiority in his regard, and entitle this singular animal, em- )hatically; its superior carcass, too, considered; o the appellation of the Farmers'' Sheep. In some instances of apparent incapacity, I lave succeeded by changing the male, or the female, as the case required. This I have prac- tised with cattle, as well as sheep. I have been, at several periods of my life, a breeder of sheep and cattle, and have had as fine animals as most I now see. The English areeds were then not so highly improved, as '.hey are noaj esteemed to be. We procured our breeders chiefly from Holland, the low countries of Europe and Germany. Save that the Alderney race were always^ in high estimation. I had them, during twenty years, in great perfection. [ never found much certainty in breeding grext milkers, even from the best parentage ; though often I have had success. My farms have been ill chiefly devoted to large dairies, during more *i than forty years past. If' My days of agricultural activity have passed 11 away, and I can now only enjoy recollections ; til and also the gratification of seeing my early en it deavors now far exceeded. I rejoice to pe:- I) ceive the spirit for improving our stock, so gc.i- y erally and meritoriously diftused ; and am sig- nally delighted by its prevailing where it was i most required. horses, nnd the barbarian and merely mischiev ous prostration of an extensive and well select- ed collection of tine, young and thriving fruit trees, mortified mc more than the more import- ant deprivations. Added to weightier excite- ments to avenge my rebellious exertions, an il- liberal officer of a British picket, was stung by an imprudently smart girl, who remained with her widov/ed mother in the farm house. He sarcastically told her, that " Washington had been a low mechanic." — She replied that she had never heard that part of his history — but their General, Ho-we, was assuredly one — he was a fl7(;>-maker. The house was burned in a night or two after. But, as a mark of good breeding, I will clo.se my prosing letter, which I began only to rescue my i'avorite Tunisians from unmerited imputa- tions. My subject is, however, not a barren one. You will, therefore excuse my prolific prolixity, and permit me to offeryou sincere as- surances of my best regards. Your's, very truly, RICHARD PETERS. .J. S. Skinner, Es OB'ERVATIOXS P.FJ ATIN'C TO AGRICL LTURF. & DOMESTIC ECONOMY. FOR THE NF.W ENCLAXD FAR.MXIR. ON NEAT CATTLE. In early ases oeat cattle, together with sheep and goats, termed almost the only property of men, who were reputed to be wealthy. Thus Abram was said to be "very rich in cattle;"'' the wealth of Lot consisted of " (locks and herds and tents." 'Of Nabal it was said '•• the man was very great, and he had three thousand sheep, and a thousand goats." Cattle became of some- what less comparative consequence as society advanced in civilization ; still there is nothing over which the knowledge, constituting power, has given man dominion of more importance than neat cattle, unless, perhaps, it bo iron. It is probable that cattle, aiul indeed all do- mestic animals, were originally existing in a wild state, and some arc still found in a state of nature in dift'crent countries. A kind of cattle, called by authors the Urus, or wild bull, was formerly a native of Great Britain and Ireland, as is proved by the horns q^bis animal, which have been tound in the mosses and bogs of those countries. These horns arc of great magnitude ; and their size indicate that they belonged to the largest animal, ol the ox kind, that ever was found in Europe. The breed has been extinct in Great Britain and Ireland, from time immemorial ; but still exists in the Polish province of Lithuania. It is described as having in general a curled shaggy coat, especially on the forehead ; the hair con- stantly long on the fore quarters, neck and fore- head, and depending from the chin ; the neck elevated, thick and short, with the tail long, the eyes red and liery ; the horns thick and short. It grows to a large size, the female being larger than the largest bull of common breeds. The Bison (^Bos .Imericnnvs) is a large spe- cies of ox, with round and distant horns, which point outward, a long and wooly maine, and a large and fleshy protuberance on the shoulders. These anmials are hunted on the banks of the Mississippi and its tributary streams. Their flesh is used as food, and the fatty protuberance, in some large cattle, weighs forty of fifty pounds, and is esteemed a great delicacy. When the animals are in full flesh, they arc said to yield, sometimes, as much as 150 pounds of tallow. The largest breed of cattle hitherto discovered is found in the interior parts of India, and is there called Ainee. Dr. Anderson gives the following particulars respecting this prodigious quadru- ped. " About the year 1790 or 1791, the Hawks- bury East Indiaman, on her voyage outward, while she was going up the river Gangefe, and at the distance of about lifty miles below Calcut- ta, fell in with a bullock ol this species floating in the river, and still alive. A boat was imme- diately liojsted out, which went in chase of this game: a noose was soon lluown across (he horns ; and it was dragged to the ship's side, hoisted on board, killed, cut up, and soon after dressed for the use of the ship's company, who found It a most delicious moal ; being the tirst fresh meat that they bad tasted for many months. They all thought it a very large sized ox, and were the more surprised at this particular when it was discovered to be only two years old. — When cut up, it was found to weigh three hun- dred and sixty pounds a quarter, making one thousand four hundred and forty pounds of beef in the whole carcase. As this animal must nec- essarily be supposed to be lean at the time, for it must have floated, in all probability, many hun- dred miles down the river (none of this breed being found lower than about Plassy.) and must therefore have fallen oiT in fle>^h very much, we canno{ compute that a full sized bullock of that breed, when thoroughly fatted, could have been less than three times that weight ; so (hat the four quarters alone would have amounted to two tons ; an enormous size for an animal of that kind." In a work by Mr. Kerr, an English author, on the Animal Kingdom, this kind of ox is said to have been met with by a British officer, in the woods above Bengal ; and to have been four- teen feet high, measuring from the hoofs to the top of the horns. It partakes ol the form of the horse, the bull and the deer ; and is represent- ed as a bold and daring animal. It is said to have upright lunatcd horns, flat and wrinkled on their surface. It is of a black color, quite smooth, witii no bunch or protuberance like that of the bison. The horns of these animals are to be found in European museums and cabi- nets. Some of them are said to measure three feet and an half in length, and seven inches di- ametei, at the base. The Arnee is, perhap-, the largesl breed of cattle yet known. A very small breed is found in Africa, ol which we have the following no- tice in Dr. Anderson's Recreations. " The smallest breed of cattle, which has come to my knowledge, I never yet saw ; but it has been so accurately described to me by several persons who have seen and handled it often, that there can be no doubt (hat such a breed of cattle does actually exist. The dimin- utive creature to which 1 allude, was n bull, which, with a cow of the same breed, was brought by way of natural curiosity from some part of the western coast of Africa, as my in- formation goes, to be presented to (he Duke of Northumberland ; but, unfortunately, the cow received a hurt on board the vessel, which caused her death. The bull came safe, and liv- ed about Sion house, near Brentford, above eight years, being quite domesticated, and as tame as a dog. Mr. Forsyth, of Kensington, who was then gardener to the duke, assures me, that he has measured him often after he had attained his fullest size, and when he was enor- mously fat ; and that from the ground to the top of the shoulder was precisely two leet. He was a neat, well formed, and beautiful creature of his kind. His horns would seem to have been rather longer in proportion, and liner than those of the ordinary bulls in this country, biding three or lour inches long and verysharj). Like all other yjf.'.'j, he became very familiar in the family. He used to accompany the brewer to the cellar, and came at last to relish a horn of good ale very well ; and, after having satistied himself completely, he used to lake his place before the hearth in the servants' hall, from which it was not an easy matter to dislodge him. He became at length a little mischievou.-> and troublesome to strangers, who came about the house, by some of whom, it was supposed, he had been so severely beaten as to occasion his death." The musk hull, which is found in the interior parts of North America, between Churchill and Seal rivers is another remarkable variety of tt Bos, or cattle kind. This species is "thougi to have arisen from an intercopulatiou of tl bison with the common kind, such as our d mestic cattle. It is said to be somewhat lowe but more bulky than the deer, with short leg a small hump or bunch on the shoulders ; tt horns very large, weighing from forty to sixl pounds, bending downwards, and verging out i the points (o the leng(h of (wo feet and uj wards ; the hair of a dusky red color, tine, ac long enough to reach the ground. Beneath th hair the body is covered with an ash colore wool or fur, so very (ine as to make stocking liner than silk. The tail is about three incht long, and covered with hair, of which the E quimaux Indians, make caps. They are ver prolitic and numerous, delight in rocky and hill countries, have considerable speed, and dim Sleep ascents with much agilit}'. Their flesh i esteemed good and wholesome food, iictwith standing its flavor of musk. The sarluc, or grunting ox of Tartary an Thibet is a singular animal of this species. I IS found in Tartary and Thibet, where it i i.umbered among the domestic animals. 1 Ireeds with the bison, and is accounted an an inal of the same species. It has, however, som [■eculiarities not found in any other creature c the bos kind. Instead of lowing like an ox, . 2ruuts like a hog. Its bod}' is covered wit very long hair, which hang^ down below th linees, generally black, excepting the ridge ( tiie back and the mane, which are white. Th liorns are short, upright, sharp and slender ; th tail is formed like that of a horse, but white an bushy. The animal, in its wild state, is ver unruly and dangerous, and accustomed to slrik or but with its head. The tail, being mounte in silver, is used in India for the purpose of dr: ving away flies, and serves various purposes c ornament in Thibet and China. (to be continued.) Cisterns for holding rain ■water. " The deeper cisterns are, the better wate will be kept. A cube is a good figure, but double cube is better, as it gains depth and con sequentlj' coolness. A cistern ofG cubic feel holds 16 hogsheads of 100 gallons each. A dou blecubeofS feet would hold above 18 run hogsheads of 100 gallons. The pit should bi dug exactly bj' square and plumb. On the fad of the pit, lay potter's clay, plastcrwise, with i trowel, coat over coat, (as it dries and cracks two or three inches in all. Against this tirn even face of plaister, raise the brick or stoni work. Bed the bottom, throe or four inche thick, with strong clay, beat to a smooth evei surface. Moisten the clay, and beat it will switches or small hoop poles, but with nothin| heavy. On this clay-floor, lay a double bed o brick ; and, on the margin of tWs, carry up tht side walls half brick thick, laying them in ter- ras. Cover the cistern over, but leave rooit to (ix a small pump, which must be two feel from the bottom ; or a roller and bucket maj be used to raise the water.'" — Bordlcy's Essays. " The following valuable composition for t cement for water cisterns was given to the edi- tor [of the Domestic Encyclopedia] and he ha! used it ivith success. He lined the well with brick, and left a space of about six inches be i NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 205 tween the bricks and the surrounding- solid earth ; this space he filled with mortar made with lime and pounded gravel. Equal parts of pounded brick, sand, and sifted stone lime, were well mixed and worked up with hot lime wash. This composition was spread on as hot as possi- ble upon the inside of the well. " To prevent the cooling- of the cement too hastily, only a gallon must be made at a time. — A floor of the cement must be laid, and the top] arched, leaving room for a pump to be put down." " In many parts of Europe, rain water, saved in cisterns is the only water drank. Stolberg says, he drank some in the vicinity of Naples, near three j'ears old, and found it excellent. — Mr. Brentham has lately taught us, that water may be kept during the above period perfectly sweet. Ou the flat coasts of the United Slates, these rain water cisterns ought to be generally built ; for the water from the ground is very bad, and occasions many of the disorders, at- tributed to other causes."' i It is said, by some, that if the bottom of cis- terns be covered with sand, it will help to sireet- en and preserve it. , "• Anciently there were cisterns all over the country in Palestine. There were some like- wise in cities and private houses. As the pities for the most part were built on mountains, and the rain fell regularly in Judea at two seasons of the year only, in spring and in autumn, peo- ple were obliged to keep water in cisterns in the country, for the use of their cattle ; dnd in cities for the conveniency of the inhabitafits. — There are cisterns of very large dimensions to be see at this day in Palestine, some of which are 150 paces long, and 54 wide." There are many tracts of country within the limits of the United States, where the water is brackish, hard, and unwholesome ; and where, of course, it would be well for the inhabitants to turn their attention to the construction of cis- terns for holding rain water, which, if well pre- served, is always pure and wholesome. Implements of Husbayulry, "In purchasing implements of husbandry,the fol- lowing rules are to be observed : 1 . They should be simple in their construction, that their uses may be easily understood ; and when neccssar}', that any common workman may be able to re- pair them. 2. The materials should be of a durable nature, that the labor may be less liable to interruption from their accidental failure. 3. Their form should be firm and compact, being so much subject to jolts and shaking. 4. In the larger machines, symmetry and lightness of .shape ought to be particularly attended to : for a heavy carriage, like a great horse, is worn out by its own weight, more than by what it carries. 5. The wood should be cut up and placed in a position the best calculated to resist pressure ; and mortises, so likely to weaken the wood, should, as much as possible, be avoided. 6. Their price should be such, that farmers in moderate circumstances can atTord to buy them; yet, for a trilling difference, the judicious far- mer will not purchase articles, either of a flim- sy fabric, or a faulty form ; and 7. Implements ought to be suited to the nature of the country, whether hilly or level, and more especially to ihe quality of the soil, since instruments calcu- lated for l.ght land, may not answer well in the heavy and adhesive." — Code »f Agriculture From the Northern Intelligencer. DISEASES OF SHEEP. As far as I have learnt, it has been liut a few years since worms have been discovered to breed in the heads of sheep, though it is probable (hey have, from time immemorial. They arc not only found in the heads of sheep but also in the deer of our forest. 1 am fully satisfied that these grubs do more injury to the sheep of our country, than all the diseases with which they are aftlicted, and we may add to this, all that are killed by dogs and wolves. I therefore consider that a true history of these worms, their manner of breeding, to- gether with the best method of destroying them, will be important to the public, especially at this time, when our farmers are so generally turning their attention to the breeding of sheep and supplj'ing our infant manufactories with wool. 1st. These grubs proceed from a large bee, which lays its eggs in the nostrils of sheep, the last of August and first of September, where the}- soon hatch, so that by the 20th of the month, you may discover in the cavity between the nostrils and the wind pipe, from 25 to 100 small white grubs, with black heads and a black streak on the back, and in June a black streak crosswise. They continue in this place till July and August, at which time they get their growth, and are as large as a pipe stem, and near an inch long, with four large teeth as hard as bone. They then leave the sheep, and soon cast off their skin, when the bee appears, and is ready to lay a new parcel of eggs. Symptoms. — The symptoms do not appear till towards spring, at which time they may be dis- covered, by sickly countenance and loss of flesh, notwithstanding all the grain and roots that can be given them ; sometimes running at the nose, (though not always.) and snorting as if trying to blow something from the head. In some instan- ces they will suddenly spring about in a wild tVantic manner, and drop down dead. When this last symptom takes place, the grubs have made a lodgment in the brain. When they do not die in this manner, the grubs make the sheep so poor that their wool stops growing, be- comes loose and much of it falls before shearing, many oi the lambs are lost, and those that live are stinted by reason of the ewes being poor and sickly, and consecjucntly give little or no milk ; sometimes the sheep will linger along, pining awaj' continually, and not die until June or July. Reme(?y. — Take half a pound of good Scotch snutT, pour two quarts of boiling water on it, stir it and let it stand till cold, inject about a ta- ble spoonful of this liquid and sediment up each nostril of the sheep with a syringe. This must be repeated three or four times at proper in- tervals, from the middle of October to the first January ; the grubs are then small and are much easier destroyed ihan afterwards, and have not Injured the sheep as they will, if deferred until later. Half an ounce of assafoetida, pounded in a little water, and added to the snuiT, will make it more effectual. The owne.- of the sheep need not be alarmed when the operation is performed, to see the sheep very drunk and apparently in the agonies of death, as they will in a iew minutes recover. 1 never knew any bad effects to follow. Dry snuff may be blown up the nose with a quill, and have a good ef- fect ; but it is a tedious dirty job. 1 have tried vinegar and blue die with but little or no suc- cess. The reason ivhy it is necessary to perform the operation so often is, thiit in the heads of the sheep, there are many cavities, and a little above each nostril there is a thin substance wound up into four folds, the grubs get into these cavities and fold'^, whore it is not common to reach them the (ir.st operaton, but by rei)cating it three or four times, at proper intervals, they will crawl out and be all destroyed. The rea- son of my directing the sediment of the snuff to be injected, together with the decoction, is, the sediment is retained in the head longer than the liquid, which makes it more certain to prove ell'ectual. The above knowledge I have obtained from dissecting the heads of a number of sheep, in dilTerent seasons of the year, and making cxpc- iments on some before they were killed, and in this way I could di.scover exactly the effect of the difiereiit medicines. If the above directions are strictly attended to with all the sheep of our country, more than a million of dollars uould be saved in the United States yearly ; as all sheep (in this part of the world at least) arc ini'ected with these vermin ; if any person doubts it, let them examine sheep from the 20th of September to the first of June. I have found that our sheep are sometimes infected with the consumiition on the lungs. — Bucks that have been put to too great a number of ewes, without being well fed with corn or beans, a little befoue tuppying time, are most subject to this disorder. Symptoms. — The eyes uncommonly bright and shining, water constantly running i'rnm them, and a gradual loss of flesh, they generally de- cline till the latter part of the winter and then die. 1 lost a buck last winter with the above symptoms, and on dissection, I found evcrj' part natural except the lights, which were nearly all ulcerated. Remedy. — Tar, or tar wafer is good, but after the disorder is fully seated, it is doubtful wheth- er any thing will be of service. Foot rot. — This disorder is occasioned by sheep going in wet pastures. There is an issue in the division of each hoof, a little above the hoof, some have erroneously supposed it to be a liv- ing worm. When the sheep stand long in wa- ter, it affects the issue of their feet, so that an inflammation takes place, and if they are not re- moved to a dry pasture the feet will rot off. — Perhaps it would be better for those, whose land is low, to take out those issues, which may be easily done, by putting the finger the under side ol'the foot and pressing upward, then with a sharp penknife cut through the skin around the mouth of the issue, and with a strong pair of twoesers it may be ; ullcd out, the place will then heal and the sheep will not be liable to (he rot in the foot, though they should run in wet pastures. But when the pastures are dry, which on the whole, is best for sheep, 1 think it not proper to pull out the issue ; ibr this rea- son, the God of nature has made them thus, and undoubtedly for the benefit ol the sheep, as much as the issue in the legs of hogs. JNO. T. ADDOMS. Plattsburg, Oct. 10, 1822. 206 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. From the i\cw York Statesman. I ton. — He was born in the state of New-York on 'the 26th July 1730, anJ died in the city of Extract of a IctUr from one ot the Editors, now in | \Vnshinf;;ton on the 20th of April, 1811, in the 73d year of his age. He was a soldier and Wasliiiiglon .\.\TIO.\AI. BURYING GROUND. { statesman of the revolution. Eminent in coun- One of the Cr^i objects for which I inquire on cil and distinguished in war, he filled with un- enteringnnew place is the church ^ard, since ^ examplod usefulness, purity and ability, among indopcndont of tlie ploasiiiv melancholy derived ">""> o">er offices, those ol Governor of his na- from meditations " among the tombs," "the selec- { ''^'o '=tate^,^nnd of \ ice-President oi the United tion of a site lor a burying-ground, the m:innerj ^'•'''gs. ol'laying it out, the sculpture of the moiiumeuls anil the inscriptions they bear, furnish a prctly correct index to the intelligence and taste of the inhabitants. In the congregation of the dead, you may study and catch the manners of the living, discovering in turn relinomeiit or rude- ness of (aste, linowlcdge or ignorance, ostenta- tion or modest retirement, aflectation of sorrow, or the simplicity and sincerity of real ati'ection and real grief Had Mr. Aldcn been less vol- uminous and le's indiscriminate. Ids collection of cpitn|)lis might have been an interesting and useful work, presenting at least one striking feature in the moral physiognomy of the coun- try. It was my intention sooner to have given a brief sketch of what may be considered the A'a While he lived, his virtue, wisdom, and valor, were the pride, the ornament and the se- curity of his country ; and wlien lie died, he left an illustrious example of a well spent life, wor- thy of all imitation. This monument is affec- tionately dedicated by his children." — I have copied the whole of this inscription, because it is concise, neat and appropriate, and because I do not recollect to have seen it noticed. The virtues and services of sucli a distinguished pat- riot cannot be too often called to mind, especially by the citizens of a state to which he was a pub- lic benefactor. Near the grave of George Clinton, commen- ces a range of monunieat', which extends for some rods towards the south, erected to the memory of members of Congress, who died at Washinarton. These memorials are placed in lence," and a plain tomb-stone to the memory of Mr. Machen, with the classical and beautiful ex- pression of filial affection, •' H< u I genitorem, omnis curac casasque levamcn, Amitto." THE FARMER. tinned Hnr>iiii\^-gi-miniL as members of Congress an exact line, are ot the same height, composed aiul other ollicers of the government are there interre('. I have paid it tivo visits — the first at evening twilight, in com|)any with the obliging I'riend, alluded to in my last letter, and nn En- glish traveller. W'c. arrived in season to take only an im[)erfect view of the ground, and to read a lew of the insci'i[)lions bel'ore tlie depar- ture of day-light, all the horizontal monuments being covered with snow to the depth of sev- eral inches. Ve?-terdiiy morning I walked there alone, and passed an hour before the meeting ofthe House. This cemetery is in a remote and lonely situ- of the same materials, uniform in their structure, and uninterrupted in the series, except by a marble pyramid in honor of Capt. Hugh George Campbell, of South Carolina. They are built of free stone, painted white, and consist of short, square, aud plain pillars, willi a cone at top, and resting on a broad pedestal which rises by two steps. On the f«ce of the pillar, is an in- scription, similar throughout, with the excep- tion of names and dates. I shall give that of jMr. Pinkney as a sample, because he is among the most distinguished in this assemblage of the dead, and because it is a perfect contrast to the ation, being something more than a mile in a ' epit'ip'"' proposed by several persons soon after southeasterly direction from the Capitol. It lies immediately upon the bank ot East liranch, at the distance of only a few yards from the wa- ter's edge, but elevated considerably above it. and commanding an extensive view ofthe river. The winding path leading to it is over a wide and barren common — there are no houses in the vicinity — and it will be lung before it will be in the midst of the city. Had the church- yards of Neiv-York been laid out wiih the same his death. In plain black letters you find the following brief inscription : — " In memory of the Hon. William Pinkney, a senator in the con- gress of tlie United States from the state of Jla- ryland, died Eeb. 25th, 1 022, aged oO years.'' Here sleep the remains, and such is the epitaph ofthe man, on whose eloquence courts and sen- ates have hung with atlmiration and delight.! Dy his side and near him, sleep the ashes of Mr. Trimble of Ohio, Mr. Burrill of Rhode Islan precaution, they would not now have formed a ! i^Ir. Malbone ofthe same state, and Mr. Trat y ! subject of legislation for the Common Council, i o't^onueclicut, members of the Senate — togeth- 1 nor for newspaper discussion. This grave-yard contains an area of two or three acres, enclosed by a plain wooden fence, and spriidiled willi copses of native cedar, stinted in their growth er with Samuel A. Otis, Ibriner secretary of that ; body : also, Rlr. Smilie of Pennsylvania, ftlr. Dawson of Virginia, Mr. Slocuinb of North Car- olina, Sir. Hazard of iiliode Island, Mr. Walker anil many of them withered, either from the i of Kentucky, Mr. Mumford of North Carolina, poverty ofthe soil, or from havin" their roots I ^^^- Stanford ofthe same state, Mr. Brigham of iiroken by the sj)ade of thegrave-dig"-or. There ' M''Ssachusolls, Mr. Darby of New Jersey, and are however, enough living to conceal many of ! "^Ir. I'lount of North Carolina, members of the the graves ; and their verdure contrasted wilhi House of Representatives, making an aggregate the grey tomb stones produces an ai feet. le cable ef- in both branches, ot seventeen. It is somewhat remarkabfe, that so large a state as uiat of New The most conspicuous monument, is that erec-] ^ "''^ '^-'s »'' other representative in this con ted in memory of Gr.onc.t; Cli.nto.v, Vice-Presi-I S''css of the dead, than George Clinton, while dent of the United States. It is a handsome pyr- amid of stuccoed freestone, ten ortweUe. feet in height, standing upon a broad base, and inouut- iiig by steps. On one side is a prolile likeness cut from marble in bold relief, and surrounded with a civic wreath. Beneath is the Ibllowing inscription : '• To the memory of George Clin- the small state of Rhode Island has three or four. In the monuments and tomb-stones of other persons interred here, there is nothing very peculiar or striking, it you except the mar- ble slab over the remains of Tobias Lear, which " his desolate widow and mourning son erected to mark (he jilacc r,J' his uboik in the dly of si- nOSTOX .—S.lTl'RD^iY, JA.y. e.i, 182,1. FATTENING OF SWINK, The Hon. Mr. Pctor?, of Pennsylvania, has a=ser(fJ that I'attinjf Iiojs should always be snpplird with dry rotlfii wood, which shouht be kept in their pen, for tli'^ aniniils to eat as their appetites or instincts may direct . It ha= been supposed, likewise, that swine thrive bel- ter when they can obtain fresh earth, which they an; obseri'ed often to swallow with greediness. The pre- babilty is that nature directs these creatures to lb'- use of such substances as absorbents to correct the acidities of their stomachs. Charcoal, it is ssid by some, will answer a similar, if not more valuable pur- pose ; and that if swine are supplied with this la>t, mentioned substance they show but little incluiation for rolling, and are much more quiet in their pens than under ordinary treatment. It is easy to try the experi- ment; and if tried we should be glad to be informed of its results. Mr. Peters, and some other eminent agricultiuisis have asserted that food for swine is much the best for fattening them, when it has been soured by fermt nta- lion, and it is even supposed that one gallon of sour wash will go as far as two of sweet for this purpose. .And :«i Knglish writer tells us that " the best method of fceJing all kinds of grain to hogs, is to grind it to meal, and mix it with water, in cisterns made for the purpose, in the proportion of five bushels of meal to a hundred gallons of water; the mass to be well stirred several times each day, until it has fermented and be- come acid, when it will become ready for use. In this way two or three cisterns mvist be kept for fermeutiuj in succession ; and tJie profit will pay the expense." Hogs cannot be fattened so cheaply in very cold 35 in temperate weather, unless they are guarded with great care against the inclemency of the season. I.i the winter too, acid or fermented food cannot so well lie procured for them, as the low temperature of tin; uir will stop fermentation, if not freeze the wash und< r ordinary circumstances. The food for swine may be I'ermented by being kept in an apartment kept at near summer heat by a stove. The wash may also be kept warm by steam introduced according to C'oimt Hum- lord's plan.* IJnt healing liijuuh by steam is net fo easy a process as would seem at the first thougl t. There must be a large [that is large in proportion to the quantity of liquid to be warmed] and strong boiler, with two safety valves, one opening outwards to let out the steam, if by the sudden increase of heat, it should acquire so much elasticity as to endanger the bursting of the boiler ; and one valve opening inwards to prevent the sides of the boiler from being collapsed, or crushed inward, or the liquid from being forced out of the cistern through the steam tube into the boiler by the weight ofthe atmosphere. Then there must be steam tubes rising some height above the surface of the wash in the cistern, and descending, vertically, to near its bottom. The steam must be so elastic .as to overcome not only the pressure of the atmosphere, but also the additional press\ire of that part ofthe liquid in the vessel, containing the wash, which lies above the opening or end ofthe tube where the steam is discharg- ed into the vessel. * See .Vrti- Evglani Farmer, J\'o. 5, pp. 38, 39. NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 107 \ iuious means may be made use of to give the wash k temperature ronclucive to fermentation. \Vatcr-ti;;ht tubes filled with flame or hot air, from a furnace or a ^ovc, might answer the purpose by being carried thro' tilt- cisterns containing the wash to be fermented. But l.ir common farming purposes, we believe it will be best either to keep up a moderate degree of heat in the room or cellar in which the wash is Ui'pt for fermenta- ti n, by means of stoves, or to make use of kettles or c;iKlrons set in brick in the cammon way, in which u'tLTthe materials have been well boiled, the liquid iiui;t be kept of a proper temperature for fermentation, l.v occasionally heating them. AVooden vessels, or 1 ircular rims of wood, may be so adapted to the tops 1 rims of these kettles, that the whole will coDtain rte or four times the quantity, which the kettles ue would hold. In these roots and other food might boiled, steamed and fermented, at the will of the . ^vupr or Euperiuteudant of the process. Where fcr- .iiiiilatiou is the object, it may be well to mix with the -\\eet wash a little of that which is already soure)d, to iTvc as veast or leaven. FARMER SUMMARY OF NEWS. CO.\GRESS, for aught we can perceive, are pro- ceeding pretty correctly, and Jo not appear to be much affected with a certain tndtmic disorder, which used to break out in speeches of more length than substance. To give a detail of their proceedings in our paper, with- out encroaching on our other pro\ iuces, would require rather more talent than is necessary to compress an Uiad into a nut shell. We shall therefore merely f jac- ulate a slitcp''s c;/e towards them, occasionally, without |)retending to give a regular survey of their proceed- ings. There is some prospect of their abolishing im- prisonment for debt — of tlieir amending the Conatitu- iion relative to the election of President, in such man- ner that in certain cases the House of Representatives shall choose one of the .two highest candidates. They have still on the carpet certain resolutions relative to national defence, and organizing the militia, which, when hammered into a workmanlike shape, we shall perhaps present to our readers. They have a bill for regulating the commercial intercourse with Canada, whicii will probably prove interc?ting to those wUom il nav concern. Some wagon loads of private petitions CO likewise to swell the national budget of proceedings. A new naval peace establishment is also in contempla- tion. They seem determined that Uncle Sam shall not be taken in by gentlemen who possess more wit than boaesty, and have therefore under the national thumb "an act in addition to an act for the more prompt set- tlement of public accounts, and for the punishment of perjuiT." An amendment of the Constitution is pro- posed to give Congress power to establish and construct roads and canals. This some suppose will be merely counrming a power already given by the Constitution. M.iSSACHUSETTS Lr.GISLATURE is mostly oc- cupied by business of a private and local nature. They have before them, an act for the sale of certain lands in Maine, which they must, according to tlie act of cepaTation, either transfer to that state or pay her $30,000. Likewise, a hill authorising towns not ex- ceeding a certain amount of population, to employ sclioolinasters, who are not versed in Latin and Greek. Moreover, the Iniancial prospects of the Commonwealth appear to look a lillle b!ue. According to a report from the committee of Ways and Means, exhibited by Mr. .Tarvis. it should seem that the annua] revenue for •a number of years is likely to be at least $35,000 dol- lars short of the annual expenditure, and this deficien- cy it is proposed to supply by a tax on auctions. The session, however, appears to be characterised by that harmony and dispatch of public business, which bids fair to promote the public welfare, and assure the ap- pfobatioQ of their constituents. FOREIGN. — The last news from Europe brings Tjon- Aon dates to Dec. 7th ; Paris dates to the 4th Dec. Madrid to the 25th, and Verona to the 26th November. The Congress at Verona is dissolved. An official re- snoQStrance has been or will be dispatched to the Cabi- net of Madiid, demanding such an alteration in the Constitutional system as will at least render it analo- gous to that of Portugal, and jdace the crown beyond the reach of popular control. In case of refusal, (says a London paper) Russia, Austria and I'rnsMa will give their fullest sanction to the hostilities, A\liieli tlie Ultras of Fi ance are so anxious to commence — and there is no doubt tliat the army of observation will soon cross the frontier. England is not to be a party to the measure, unless the Constitutionalists shew a determination to put the king to death, or to invade other countries. The Russians are said to be hostile to Sjiain. The Greeks are to be left to the good faith of the Turks, who have promised to behave with moderation. This, a London editor remarks, is the most farcical of all political farces, as it is delivering the lambs to the tender protection of the wolf. A London article of Dec. 7th, states that the Uiike of Wellington is hourly expected at Paris, and it is reported that the French Government's determination, in regard to Spain, is suspended until the arrival of the Duke. A letter received in London from St. Pctcrsburgh, states that Capt. Waschcw, just returned from bis voyage of discovery, had not only passed up Bcehring's Straits, to a higher latitude than Capt. Cook, but had determined the true position of the northern continent of America, from Tey Cape to .\laska, and found an island north of it inhabited. A widow woman, of \'aine5S, in France, was mu.r- dered on the 20th of October last. AVhen discovered, she still grasped in one hand some locks of hair, which, in struggUng she had torn from the head of the mui- derer, and which led to his arrest. UIEU — In New Haven, on the 12lh iiist. the Hon, JoNATIIA.N liv<;KusoLi., Lt, Govi Tiior of Conniclieul. In Cananduigna, ?<'. Y. lion. Glutos Gi!A.v<;i.n, formerly Post Master General. On boaid the ship Moss, on tlie '27th October, on his passage from I'hihidelpiiia to Loudon, lion. Wii.i.i/>i l.ow.MiKS, of South Carolina. In liriniEwick, N. J. Gen. Jami.s W. RvAN, at Ih' ad^anctd a-re of 107 viais. DOJrESTIC— The President of the Ui.llcd States has ratified the Convention made at St. Peteisburgh, relative to indemnifications for slaves carried off by the British during the late war, by proclamation dated the nth inst. The Hon. H. G. Otis, L. L. D. has been elected Member of the Corporation of Harvard College, hi place of the Hon. John Lowell, L. L.D. resigned. Lilcrctr)/ Prizes. — The prize awarded by the mana- gers of the Philadelphia Theatre to Mr. Sprague, for his address, delivered at the opening of the Theatre in that place, is a handsome silver cup, of neat workman- ship, bearing on one side, Uie inscription Jludiqac loca- lus ^Ipollo, and on the other " Presented by W arren and Wood, to Charles Sprague, Esq. of Boston, author of an Address delivered at the opening of the New- Theatre, in Philadelphia, Dec. 2, 1S22." Mr. Sprague, some time since, received from the managers of the >ew York Theatre, a laige gold medal, with appro- priate inscriptions. Importanl Invenllon. — We find it stated in one of our last files of English papers, that a Mr, Cook, of Birmingham, has discovered a method of rendering all sorts of cotton, linen, muslins, kc. (as well as timber itself,) incombustible, by immersing them in a solution of vegetable alkali. — Kren. Gaz. David Sears, Esq. has presented to the Mayor and Aldermen of the city of Boston, a handsome edifice luilt for a vegetable market, and situate in Brattle-st. It appears by the deed (says the Boston Patriot) that Ke presented to them six hundred shares in the corpo- rate property of the Museum Hall Corporation, the net income of which is annually to be funded, and one half !ie income of the t'und is to be applied to embellishing le Common and the Mall, and to such other orna- ments of the city, as the Mayor and .Aldermen may think proper. I'nder the municipal regulations of the Market tills fund will annually increase, and finally yield a large revt iiiie. The Hon. Nicholas Brown has presented to the Cor- p-ration of Brown University, Providence, an elegant brick building, 4 stories high, 120 feet long, 40 wide, cnntaining 4C rooms. Trask, a criminal, who has been confined in gaol in this city about a j'ear, and lately murdered two per- sons immured in the same cell with himself, made his escape on Tuesday night last, by removing one of the stones from the wall of the prison. A man by the name of Echert, was killed on the Ist inst. in Penn. by the discharge of a gun. It had been loaded a long time, and in attempting to set fire to the powder it contained, with a lighted coal, it was dis- charged and shatter^ bia headtto atoms. I^OR sale at the Agricultural Establishment, No. 20, Merchant's Rov/, a general assortmmt of the most APPROVED FARMING TOOLS— viz. Harrison's Corn Shellers ; Straw Cutters ; double and single mould board Ploughs, of \ arlous kinds — Bed- son's Cultivators — Bennett's .Bn ad Cast Machine for small seed ; extra cast steel broad and narrow Hoes — Foster's best English Shovels — Ain( s' back sirnpp'd do. Cain's English cast steel warranted Scythes and Hay Knives ; Brush Scytlies — Stevens' Patent steel spring Hay and Manure I'orks — Brown's Vertical Wool Spin- ner, ire. fcc. • Boston, .Tan. 25. ~]Vi:lw SYS'FEM OF SHOEING HORSES. JUST published, and for sale at tiie principal Pook- stores in this city, A NEW SYSTEM OF SHOE- ING HORSES, by Joseph GooiiwiN, Veterinary Sur- geon to His Majesty George IV. and Member of the Royal College of Surgeons ; including Observations on Bleeding and the Pnlse. a Concise View of the Anato- my of the Foot, Notes, Remarks, &c. Jan. 25. AMERICAN MANUFACTUPvED PAPER. HOLBROOK & FESSENDEN manufacture at their Paper Mill, In Erattleborough, (Vt.) Writing I'APr.R of an excellent quality, and much superior to any of a correspondent price imported. They have Foolscap for J;4,.50 a ream, not inferior to English pa- per which costs $9,00 a ream. Their Letti'.r Papkr is also fine, and sold cheaper than imported paper of a similar sort. Specimens may be seen at Mr. Josiah Loring's Bookstore, No. 1, South Row. Jan. 25. THE MENTOJl AND LADIES' BOUQUET- NATHANIEL DEARBORN respectfully announces to the public, his intention oi issuing a \\'eek]y Paper, provided their patronage should authorize the attempt. This determination has been taken with the advice of many friends, among whom are some ingenious mind& which aie * nlisted for this cause ; — it has also been strengthened by the eiicumstance that the editor's compositions have been deemed of sutiicicnt merit, generally, to be republished, which has been his only reward. It will be the intent of the editor, to adv.ance, in every degree w Itliin his i)Ower, the rational pleasures of man ; — to ph aei the cause of virtue ; — to lure the youlliful mind to love and to embrace those principles which can never satiate, but which ennoble human nature. To our fair country women, we pledge our best ef- forts to promote their interests ; — in every act it will be our aim to merit their approbation. The paper will be entitled Tlit Mtntor and Ludtcs'' Bouqutl. Its general outline will consist of extracts from sci- entific works : — as a " Mentor," it will ahvays contain some judicious moral essay ; — and for the " Ladies' Bouquet," will be gleaned the choicest, fairest flowers. Its si7e will be a royal quarto, paged — issued each Saturday afternoon — Price, per y< ar, $2,50 ; half year, «;1.25; quarter of a year, 75 cents : — payable in ad- vance. Subscriptions received by Col. Benjamin Loring, No. .50, State-street ; Mr. I. W. Goodrich, No. 78, State-st. Mr. Jo'iah Loring, No. 1, South Row, and at C. Cal- lender's Library, School-street. Should public favor be expressed for the appearance of this proposed work, the same will be announced through the medium of the daily prints. .'an. 25. 208 NEW ENGLAND FARMER From the True American. TO A NEW-ENGLAND POET. Though skilled in latin and in Jicfk, And earninp: fifty cents a week, Such knowledg;c, and the income, too, iihould tench ynn better what to do ; The meanest drudges, ke]>t in pay, Can pocket fifty cents a day. Why stay in such a taslelrss lanil. Where AM, must on a level staiul, (Excepting- people, at Iheir eaic. Who choosu the level where they please :) See Irvi.vc gone to Britain's court To people of another sort. He will return, with wealth and fame. While Yankees hardly know your name. Lo ! he has ki.-srd a Monarch's hand ! Before a Pri.vce I see him stand. And with the glittering nobles mix, (Forgetting limes of seventy-six,) While you with terror meet the frown OS Bank Directors of the town. The home-made nobles of our times, Who hate the bard, and spurn his rhymes. Why pause T — like Irving, haste away. To England your addresses pay ; And England will reward you well, When }'ou some pompous story tell Of British feats, and British arms, The maids of honor, and their charms. Dear Bard, I pray you, take the hint. In England what you write and print, Republished here in shop, or stall, \Vill perfectly enchant us all : It will assume a different face, And post your name at every place. From splendid domes of first degree Where ladies meet, to sip their tea ; From marble halls, were lawyers plead, Or Congress-men talk loud, indeed. To huts, were evening clubs appear, And 'squires resort — to guzzle beer. SELECTED toR THE NEW ENGLAND FARMER. The desire of being' thought wise is often a hindrance to being so ; nnd a man often remains ignorant of matters of importance to his wel- fare, merely bpcansc he is more anxious to let the world see what knowledge he has than to acquire thai which he has need oi". Those men wlio know mostj arc the most anxious to know more, because in consequence of being the best able to set a proper estimate on the advantages of knowledge, they value it the most highly. But ignorant people think they have nothing to learn, because they have learnt nothing ; and remain contented in igno- rance because they are not sensible of their want of knowledge. Some rays trom the lamp of knowledge are requisite, in order to make men- tal darkness visible to those who are enveloped in it. No man ever did a premeditated injury to another without doing a greater to himself. Dr. Franklin observed, " The eyes of other people arc the eyes that ruin us. If all but my- self were blind, I should want neither fine clothes, fuic bouses, nor line furniture."' The poorer a man is, the more necessity there is for his being honest. A rich knave may, per- haps, prosper for a while in worldly affairs, but a poor knave will soon have as little credit as cash, and not only suffer but deserve all the evils which poverty can inflict. The recoil of a blow unjustly aimed, is gen- erally more powerful than its direct impulse. He who lives without economy or prudence in his youth, may commonly expect to live with- out comfort in the decline of life. Many persons are too subtle and suspicious for their own interest and enjoyment. They put some sinister construction ou every look, and find out Something amiss in every smile. Act- ing in disguise themselves they mistake all out- ward shows and appearances tor hypocricy in others. But, perhaps, no people see less of the truth and reality of things than such retiners up- on incidents. Extract of a letter from one of the Editors of the New Vork Statesman, now in Washington. Patent Office. — SoEhe days since, a member of the House of Representatives, to whom I am under many obligations for his politeness in pointing out objects worthy of attention, and in imparting intbrmation which a long residence at the seat of government has enabled him to collect, accotiipanied me to the Patent Oflice. Although our morning visit was protracted at mv solicitation, and the superintendents, as well as my friend who had often been there before, were assiduous in pointing out the articles most deserving of particular notice ; yet an exam- nation of an hour or two could not of course enable me to take any thing beyond a hasty glance at this great repository of patents and models. It would require a year of close study to investigate and describe the machinery here deposited lor the benefit and curiosity of the public. It may be denominated a temple of the useful arts. In a collection of models amounting to three thousand eight hundred in num- ber, there is apparently every possible modifi- cation of motion, by a combination in some shape of every principle in mechanical philoso- phy. All the great agents of nature, such as tire, water, air, steam, animal strength, the gravitation and elasticity of matter, aided bv ihe artificial powers of the inclined plane, lever, screw, wedge, and pulley, have been put in rt>- quisition and applied with almost infinite varia- tions, to the purposes of life. I regretted to obtservc one or two abortive attempts at per- petual motion, as all such attempts must be, un- til the established laws of nature are changed, and inertness ceases to be a property of matter. CURIOUS DISCOVERIES. When the foundations of the city of Quebec, in Canada, were dug up, a petrified savage was found among tiie last beds to which the work- men proceeded. Although it was impossible to form any judgment of the time which this man had been l)uricd under the ruins, yet his quiver and arrows wore in good preservation. In digging a lead mine in Derbyshire, in 1741, a human skeleton was found among stag's horn?. It is impossible to say how many ages this car- case had lain there. In lC9o, the entire skeleton of an elephant was dug up in Thuringia, in Germany ; and some time before the petrified skeleton of a crocodile was found in the mine of that coun- try. About the beginning of the last century, the curate of Slajgarb, in the Swedish province of Schonen, and several of his parishoners, digging turf in a drained marshy soil, found some feet below the surface of the ground, an entire cart with the skeletons of the horses and carter. It is presufned that there had once been a lake or pond on that spot, and the carter had per- ished in attempting to cross over upon the ice. I!y the falling down of a piece of the cliff, on Walton shore, near Harwick, the skeleton o\ an enormous animal was discovered, measuring nearly 30 feet in length. Some of the bones were nearly as large as a man's body, and six or seven feet long ; the cavities which contain- ed Ihe marrow, were large enough to admit the introduction of a man's arm. The bones on being handled broke to pieces. One of the mo- lar teeth was carried to Colchester. It weighs seven pounds, is of a sqiiare form, and grinding surface ; it is studded with several zigzag rows of Laminae, which seem to denote that it be- longed to a carniverous animal. There were more teeth, which were unfortunately broken, one of which weighed 12 pounds. It is proba- ble that the tusks will be found, by searching further into the cliff, or amongst the earth which has fallen down. The above skeleton is supposed to belong to an animal of the same species as that called the Mammoth, the remains of which have been found in North America, Great Tartary, &c. A laborer in a stone quarry in the village of Pautin, near Paris, having detached a large block of stone, found in the middle, a skeleton of a ram petrified. Each part of the stone con- tained a perfect half of the animal ; the parts were very distinct. The block was dug out of liic natural rock at the depth of .'50 feet from the summit of the quarry. A petrifaction so curious, was immediately deposited in the Mu- seum of Natural Historj'. .1 Yankee Trick. — An eastern pedlar lately desired accommodation for the night at a tavern in the south part of this county ; but from the prejudice frequently existing against this class, our host for a long time refused. At last, he consented, on condition that the pedlar .should play him a Yankee trick before he left him. The offer was accepted. Ou rising in the morn- ing, .lonathan carefully secured the coverlet of the bed, which among other articles he pressed Ihe landlady to purchase. The low price of the coverlet operated at once upon the latter, who i^isisted that her husband should buy it, adding that it would match her's exactly. Jon- athan took his money, mounted his cart, and got fairly under way, when our host called to him that he had forgotten the Yankee trick he was to play him. Oh never mind, says Jonathan, you will find it out soon enough. — Winchester (Ffi.) Republican. — Oraminaticul Error. — What offence has the un- fortunate verb "/i«i)c," committed, that it should be left out between the pronoun " I," and the participle " done .'"' — As, tor instance, " 1 done so," " We done so," &c. When inaccuracies like these are found in the walls of a college, and in a legislative hall, it is time to notice, in order to correct them. — Chrrkston Courier NEW ENGLAND FARMER. Published every Saturday, by THOMAS W. SHEl'ARD, Rogers' Building, Congress Street, Boston ; at S':,50 |ier unu. in advance, or J;i,00 at the close of IJic year- Vol. I. BOSTON, SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 182:5. No. 27. DISEASES OF CATTLE. SELECTED AND COMPILED FROJI THE BEST AUTHOBS, BT THE EDITOR. Diarrhoea, Looseness, Slimy Flux, or Scouring Rot. This dioriler consists in a frequent discharge of dung, of an uuusual color, thin and slinij'. — The animal gradually looses flesh, but continues for some time to feed well and rimiinate. At length the excrements become of a darker col- or, and frothy, and in the latter stages have the appearance of half-chewed food, the digestive power being entirely lost. It is said that when animals have been long aflccted with this dis- ease, they feel a great degree of pain and dis- tress when grasped on each side the backbone, iust below the shoulders ; and this is sometimes considered, by dealers in cattle, as a mark of a beast's being tainted with the scouring rot. The fatal symptoms are the dew-lap hanging down and having a flabby appearance ; the dung running off, with a putrid and offensive smell, and as it falls to the ground, rising up in bub- bles ; the hair all over the body appearing pin- feathered, or erect, as if the animal was endur- ing a severe cold. The causes of this complaint are exposure to cold and rain, particularly when the animal has been over-driven or heated by working imme- diately before such exposure. Drinking plen- tifully of water, under similar circumstances, will also produce this disease. Want of nour- ishment, particularly in cows that are constantly milked, often causes this disease. Perspiration suppressed by any cause ; putrescency of (he aliments may also bring on this complaint. H often attacks cattle which have been kept short during the winter, and when they are put to grass in the spring, they are seized with a di- arrhoea, particularly if the weather is wet or cold, and grass plentiful. Mr. Lawrence saj's, " If, on the first appear- ance of the scouring, cattle are taken in, and kept on dry food, it will generally supersede the use of medicine." " This," says Mr. White, " is certainly necessary ; but is not, I believe, sufficient to eradicate the disease ; and though it may suppress it for a time, yet the scouring generally returns, when the animal is again sent into the pasture. The immediate cause of the disorder appears most frequently to be an unhealthy action of the liver, which seems to form bile of an acrid or hurtful quality, by which the bowels are constantly irritated. I would advise, therefore, in the early stages of the complaint, to give the foUovving drink for three successive mornings, which will rather increase the scouring at first ; and, when the effect of the medicine has ceased, let the astringent drink be given every morning and evening," First drini; for scouring. Epsora salts 1 lb. Nitre 2 oz. Camphor i oz. Coriander seed 2 oz. Mix for one dose. This dose should be repeated for three morn- ings following, unless it cause sickness or grip- 4 oz. dr. dr. oz. ing, or increase the scouring in a considerable degree. On the fourth morning, begin with the astringent drink, or earlier, should the aliove medicine produce its elTect before the three doses have been taken. During the time the cow is taking the former medicine, she should be supplied with warm fluids, of which thin gruel is the best, and must not be exposed to a cold air. Astringent Drink. Take of starch Mix in the usual way, that is, as it is employed for stiiTening clothes, with three pints or two quarts of water, so as to make a thick mucilaginous fluid ; to this add. Tincture of opium Ginger Catechu, or terra japonica Mix. Or the tirst drink for scouring may be : Common salt 8 oz. Flour of mustard 2 oz. Water 1^ pt. Oil, or melted lard ^ lb. This will increase the discharge for a short time ; afterwards, the dung will gradually be- come of a more natural consistence. But should the scouring continue, give the astringent drink already prescribed, or the following : Powdered catechu 6 dr. Tincture of opium i oz. Powdered ginger 2 or 3 dr. WLarm ale, beer or water Ih pt. Mix. The powder or tincture of galls, would also be found a powerful astringent. With respect to the scouring, or diarrhfea in calves, which is not an unfrequent complaint, a difierent treatment is to be pursued. They may generally be cured by the following drink, given morning and evening : Take of the above starch mixture Powdered chalk, or what is call- ed prepared chalk Powdered ginger Tincture of opium Mix. Lambs are subject to a may be cured by the same mean: ing the dose. In the diarrhoea, which arises from exhaust- ing a cow by constant milking, when she is not sufficiently fed, or is supplied with food of a bad quality, the remedy is sufficiently obvious. But, in this case, it too often happens, that the constitution is worn out, before it is thought necessary to alter the poor aniraal's condition. Whenever this change is made it must not be done too hastily, as other diseases might there- by be produced. When the scouring has ceased, the cow should be brought back to her usual state gradually. At tirsl she should be turned out for a few hours in some dry pasture, when the weather is fa- vorable i aud her drink should be given less warm. This precaution is highly necessary, as the affected parts do not immediately rccovei their strength after the scouring has ceased. The Complete Grazier directs that the beast taken with this disease should be immediately hou:?ed and put to dry food, which treatment, iii the earlier stages of the disorder, will, gener ally, effect a cure. Should this, however^fail. it is advised, in that work, to boil a pound ol mutton suet in three quarts of milk, till the for- mer is dissolved, and give it to the beast in a luke warm state ; or, in obstinate cases, to boil half a pound of powdered chalk in two quarts of water, till it is reduced to three pints; add four ounces of hartshorn shavings and one of cassia, and stir the whole together. When cold add a pint of lime water and two drachms oi the tincture of opium ; keep the whole in a corked bottle, and, after shaking it before using, give one or two hornsful, two or three times a day, as the nature of the case may re'quire. Ipt. tir. dr. dr. similar disease, and only lesscn- Red Water, or Bloody Urine. In this disorder the urine appears as if it were mixed with blood. As the disease advan- ces, the urine becomes of a darker color, and at length resembles foul coffee ; the animal looses strength rapidly, and sinks under the dis- order, Cattle attacked by this disease seldom live beyond the tenth or twelfth day, unless it is put a stop to by proper remedies. It is gen- erally attended with costiveness; and if this is not the case at first, it almost always happens in the course of the disonler, unless prevented by laxative medicine. It is caused by weak re- laxed ve«s=els ; thin blood ; cold ; change from a poor to a rich past«fre ; scarcity of water in a long and dry summer ; blows across the loins ; some animals appear to have the disease he- reditary. Dr. White recommends, in the first place, the following mild laxative : Epsom salt, [sulphate of mag- nesia] or common salt l to 6 oz. Nitre 1 oz. Whey, or thin gruel 1 qt. Oil, or melted lard (but castor oil is preferable) 6 to 8 oz. Mix. After the laxative, should the disease conti- nue, the following drink may be given : Alum 1 oz. Dissolve it in a pint of hot water, and add — Oil of turpentine 2 oz. Powdered catechu, or terra japo- nica 1 oz. Mix. When red or bloody water is caused by strains or a bruise in the loins, it is distinguishable by the tenderness of the part, the animal giving way when it is pressed upon, and by stiffness in the motion of the hind part.'. In this case, also, a laxative may be given ; and, if the injury is considerable, the loins should be fomented with hot vinegar, and afterwards covered with a fresh sheep's skin. Whenever the animal is observed to be fre- quently endeavoring to stale, voiding only a 210 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. small quantity, with much pain and difiiculty, any rich grounds, or placns, where the water turpentine iin.l ail other diuretics, are improper; Islands, after showers. Their vines frow too mucilaginous drinks such as infusion of linseed, , luxuriantly in such situations, and their roots and decoction of raarah mallows are most likely ; are softer and more watery to afford relief. The Farmer's Assistant asserts that this disor- der has very rarely been known in this coun- try. ( rO BE CONTI.MED.) sVVEET POTATOtS. We have been requested by several of our friends to furnish directions relative to tfce most approved mode of cnKivaling the Sweet Fotatoe. The following article is copied from the Boston Daily Advertiser of October 27, 1821 ; and the signature attached to it, may preclude the necessity of our declaring that the mode of culture which it prescribes may be relied on as correct. Directions for the prcscrration of the Slips of the S-u'cet Potatoes, and for their cultivation. The Slips are nothing more than the sjnali potatoes or roots last thrown off by the plant. — They are preferred to larger ones on the sev- eral grounds, of economy, of food and of room — of their being more easily preserved, and less Ukelyto rot in the ground after they are plant- e^. Tiie writer of this, during fifteen years, never succeeded in getting more than one large sweet potatoe to vegetate or grow in the open ;>T0und. The ignorance of the mode of culture lias probably been the cause of their not having teen raised here. The slips should be put up for prcsenation without bruising them (or as the directions from New Jersey expressed it, they should be han- dled as carefully as eggs) in a dry state, in per- fectly dry sand or earth, and kept in a warm place as free as possible from moisture. Those who wish to be perfectly assured of their success, will raise a small hot bed with, or •without glass about the jptb of April, on the south side of n fence, wall or building. — On this, they will lay the slips or roots so close as to touch each other, so that a bed of sis feet square will be sufficient for a bushel of them. They should then be covered with about an inch of earth. If the cultivator has no hot bed frames, the bed at night may be covered with a mat or with straw. In 10 or 1 ! days some of the shoots will ap- pear above ground ; when about one half or even a third so appear, they are all to be taken up to be planted. The lightest soils are best adapted to them. As their roots almost univer- sally strike downwards, like those of the carrot, they are always plac<>d on hills rauff/ about nine inches, or about the height of a potatoe hill, af- ter its lust fait) fid hoeing. These hills should te four feet and a half apart in every direction. The slips, two in each hill, one foot apart, are then put in either with the fingers, or a stick, or any instrument capable of making a sufficient hole, and the crown or top should be within an inch or hall' inch of the surface. \Vhen thus started or sprouted, it will be easy to distinguish the end which sends out roots, from that which puts forth shoots for the open air. The slips should be put in perpendicularly or nearly so, the root end downwards. They would grow without this precaution, but would be delayed and injured in their growth. A little dung dug, or hoed in, will much aid their progress, unless the laud be rich. They cannot beat moist, or The late season was too wet to enable us to raise them in the highest perfection, but a majority of them were still very good. .\fter they are planted they require the same treatment as the squash or pumpkin, that is, sim- ply weeding them. In the Jerseys, they raise the runnners from the ground when they weed them, so as to prevent their taking root, which they do more readily than any plant, and which the Jersey farmere think injurious to the main roots. The sub.scriber permitted nature to take its course, but he should certainly make the tri- al another year of the New Jersey method. The products for two successive years have been at the rate of 220 bushels to the acre, with no greater care, nor indeed so much as that be- stowed on common potatoes. They were plant- ed this year early in June, and were hilled on the 10th of October, which is at least 45 days less growth, than they would have in com- mon years, or if the seed had arrived earlier. They will begin to be palatable and fit for ta- ble about the 15th of September, or the 1st of October, as the season may have been hot or cold ; but the general crop ought not to be dug till the vines are killed. They will endure seven or eight successive hoar frosts after the common potatoe stalks have been killed. So many persons have applied for slips, that it was the advice of some of them, that these hints should be published. It is not pretended that the culture is of any agricultural importance — it is merely an horticultural experiment very plea- sant to those who have a taste for such pursuits — and also gratil'ying to those who love the s-jt;cet potatoe. They certainly can be raised here of excellent quality /«// as often as we can raise good grapes, peaches, or even pears. JOHN LOWELL. P. S. — They should not be gathered in by the hoe, or even spade — they must be raised like the carrot by the dung-fork. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE, ^ippoinled by the Legislature ofjVtw York. We have received, by the kindness of some friend, (to us unknovfn) a long Report submitted by Mr. BuEi. to the House of Assembly of the State of New York. — It is a production of great merit, but its length pre- cludes its insertion, entire, in our columns, at present ; though we hope to find room for it hereafter. Ihe following summary sketches of its contents, are taken from the Albany Argus. On Friday last, Jan. 17, Mr. Buel, from the standing committee on agriculture, made a long and interesting report. This document occupies twenty-two pages of manuscript, and is too long to be published entire in a newspaper. We shall endeavor to present an abstract that will shew the substance and general objects of the report. In the introduction, the report notices the im- portance and necessity of having agricultural pursuits aided and protected iyl school was established about 16 years ago, by an enterprising individual of the name of Felienbergh : It has acquired great ce- lebrity in Europe ; has served as a model for others; and has supplied them with instructors. The report gives an account of other schooLs which have been established under the patron- age of the governments of France, Prussia, kc. It next refers to efforts which are making in some of our sister states to establish agricultural schools : the subject having been twice before the Legislature of Pennsylvania : and in Virgi- nia, the late President Madison is seriously en- gaged to bring about the establishment of such a school; and it urges on our legislature the propriety of this state's taking the lead in this, as she has in other great public improvements. The report next points out the several ad- vantages which it is supposed will be derived from such an establishment. First. To agriculture, by the increase of the productions of the earth; and mentions sev- eral instances to prove the almost incalculable benefits which the English farmers have derived from the adoption of what is called the new system of husbandry — by the introduction of limproved implements and m?':hinery. " An En- glish writer estimates that 1,800,000 pounds sterling would be annually saved in that king- dom, if half of its wheat were threshed with the improved threshing mills; and Mr. Burgess, of Rhode Island, calculates, that in that small state there must be an annual saving of 3,000 dollars by the general use of Wood's cast iron plough. That with an experimental farm, great ex- pense might be saved to farmers in general ; and many useful improvements would probably be made from time to time. Secondlv. To commerce and manufactures. These always flourish with the multiphed pro- ductions of the soil. Thirdly. To the morals of our citizens. Fourthly. To the revenues of the state. The increased productions of the soil, would necessarily add to the income to be derived from tolls on our extensive canals. Fifthly. To the political institutions of the eountry. It proposes to submit the plan and regulations of the school to be determined by a board of commissioners. It appears that Mr. Van Rens- selaer, our present representative in Congress, has engaged to give to the institution a sutlicient quantity of land, to answer all its purposes. The report suggests the propriety of appro- priating an annual sum for the support of this school, and points out several sources from which funds might be created for the use of the institution. It exhibits a statement of 2,618,579 dollars, which have been appropriated by the state for literary purposes ; and concludes by stating, that " The above abstract is not intro- duced to call in question the wisdom of the le- gislatures who made these appropriations, but to direct public attention to an iuiportaot fact which it discloses, viz. that of all these munili- cent grants, amounting in the aggregate to about three millions of dollars, not one dollar has gone in (Zircc< aid of agriculture, the great business of our state, the source of its wealth, and the foundation of its greatness. Of the one million two hundred and fifty-live thousand dol- lars, given to colleges and academies, the culti- vators of the soil have derived but very little indirect benefit : for, through these seminaries lies the road to the professions, — not to the plough; to mental, not to bodil}' labor. Eighty- three thousand one hundred dollars have been appropriated exclusively to the medical depart- ment. Now that we have bestowed so nuioh care and expense upon the llii:hs^ your commit- tee conceive it to be just and proper, that we should endeavor to infuse intelligence, vigor, and activity into the 6oi/y, th;it it may the better sustain and strengthen the members.'' From the American Farmer. The Curing or Preservation of Aha' ; 't-itk thoughts on the causes oJ'Rusl. Elmwood, January lOtli, 13:23. Dear Sir, We had some conversation lately about the yellow rust, that is so disagreeable in bacon ; — and I referred you to a paper in your Farni6r, vol. 2, on that subject. To the causes there assigned, I have to add another, that 1 did not know of then ; and perhaps it is the most gener- al, viz : the moisture and closeness ol the meat house. I was led to this discovery by keeping some meat, that was ready for smoking, three weeks in a close house built on the ground ; and before one fire was kindled, it was becom- ing rusty. Salting and drying are the two meth- ods of curing meat — and a proper combination makes our best bacon. The addition of smoke, I consider as merely a flavor, notwithstanding what great chemists have said about rubbing on a little pyroligneous acid to cure meat. The Londoners, I am told, have no smoke houses ; they simply dry their meat in kitchens. Meat that is excessively salted by laying very long in plenty of salt, as also such as is excluded from the air,as barrelled pork, is not apt to grow rus- ty, but by very long keeping. Hence it follows, that our nicest meat is most in danger; and the pieces we salt least are the most apt to be rusty, viz: chines, joles and middlings. Hams arc the least liable, because kept longer in salt, and more protected by skin. There can be be no doubt that meat kept so long moist, will have some of the salt on the surface carried off by the air, taking up the saline moisture, which is soon collected again ;* whereas, when it is dried quickly, the reverse happens, for the decrease in the volume of the meat will condense the salt, and it will crystallize on the surface. 1 think our small pieces would do best to be first dried in a kitchen, and then smoked four or five days at most. Smoke will flavor and color rap- idly when the meat is dry. All meat houses should be constructed so as to be dry and airy. None should be in immediate contact with the ground — but here lies a difliculty, yea, a double difhculty : flies and rogues may enter with the air. I have had a lattice door hung inside my strong door, which latter is shut at dark ; and as soon as a fly ran shew his head, by which time the meat will be cured, 1 shut all' up so close, that one fly cannot see another. This I have found in all places and cases, the only infallible preventive against skippers. Those who con- tinue the light of even four inches square, must put their meat up early in March into bags, or give it a disagreeable dressing with ashes, if they expect to be the only feaslcrs on this gen- tile delicacy. Perhaps an opening in the floor of a house, with a grate and wireing, would be more eligi- ble than a lattice door ; and if the foundation was well stoned all over, and the house eleva ted a few inches from the ground, it would be rogue proof; but perhaps even six inches might be too high ; for these gentry are very much of the serpent kind, and might flatten out for the moment, to secure a good distention with such tempting stufl". Such smoke houses as are built over other houses, should have a large flue from the bot- tom, but the tires should never be put there, or the meat will keep damp — and moreover have a bitter taste — for tlie warm smoke will bi condensed on the bacon by the relative coldness. This I have experiencecl. There is much dispute with house keepers whether we should smoke in damp seasons, when the meat is dripping. I consider it safest not to smoke ; for if you do not succeed in dry- ing it, which can hardly be done so quickl}', you will injure the meat much more than the weather will. SILVANUS. * Some chemists might deny the salt being carried oflf in this way, but thiy have only to look at a brick house near the coast to be convinced ; there they will sec the salt 100 fset or more, above the water level. pria'tijxg presses. The London Courier of December 8th says; " A newly invented printing press, called the British and Foreign Printing Machine, was ex- hibited a few days ago to a numerous body of printers and scientific men, who expressed them- selves highly satislied with its extraordinary powers. It appears admirably calculated for the printing of books, news-papers, and, in fact, for every description of work that can be done by machinery. In velocity of movement it ri- vals steam printing machines, and far excels them in clearness of impression and goodness of register. Two men and three boys were enabled to print at the rate of 25 sheets in a minute, every impression being remarkably clear and perfect. The Patentee, we understand, is Mr. T. Miller of 76 Fleet-street."' The \'crtical Printing Press, recently invent- ed by I\Ir. Daniel Neall, of Pennsylvania, is spo- ken highly of in the Philadelphia papers. " One person alone is required to work a Press on this principle. The undivided atten- tion of the operator is required to supply the paper, give the pressure, and remove the print- ed sheet ; while the machine, by acting and re- acting powers, supplies the type with ink, maintains its motion, and prepares for anew im- pression, in less time than would be requsite tor two hands in the common mode, to perform {lalf that service." The whole number of the Militia of the United States and Territories, agreeably to the latest returns that have been made, amount to 937,417, allowing live thousand for the Ar- kansas. 212 iNEW ENGLAND FARMER, LEGHORN STRAW. TO THE EDITOR OF THE ^EW E.VCLA.VD FARMER. Sir — I send you for publication in your pa- per, (if it shall be found worthy a placp,) some account of the uheat, from wliirh the Leghorn hats are made. In the summer of 1821, I wrote to Jlr. .\ppleton, our Consul at Leghorn, requesting him to give me some ac- count of the straw, from which these bonnets are made ; owing to an accident, my letter did not go by the vessel which 1 intended. :uid I did not expect it to go by any other — but the letter found its way to Italy, and this gentleman, in the most obliging and attentive manner, caused four bushels of Tuscany Avheat, with an account ci the mode of cultivation and preparation to be forwarded to me ; it came by the »vay of Providence, and so late in the spring, that I was not able to have it d.stribuied and cultivated, w ith that care and attention which I was desir- ous it might be. Mr. Appleton's account of the cultivation of Leghorn straw, and the prepara- tion of it for manufacture, is contained in the lollowing extracts from his letter to rae. "Leghorn, 15th Sept. 1821. "Sir — The letter you honored me with, was handed me in the course of last month. 1 im- mediately wrote to a friend at Castel Fiorentino to obtain the best seed for straw, but it was too early, which will apologise for not availing my- self of the vessel you mentioned. I have now procured tour bushels, and forward it to you by the brig I^Iary, of Providence, Capt. Dagget. — You have my ardent wishes lor the success of the trial of this grain ; but should you find you are still deficient of any information I can furn- ish, have the goodness to inform me, and be as- sured it will exceedingly increase my gratitica- lion if I should be able to remove every obsta- cle to the attainment of your views. The grain which produces the straw worked into hats at Tuscany, is here called " Marzola," or March Grain. It is sown in March and ar- rives at its appropriate maturity, for the manu- facturing of hats, from the twentieth to the tliir- tieth of June. It is sown in somewhat dry and elevated ground^, which should be broken three, four, or more days successively, to prepare it for planting the seed, when four times as much seed, as is usually planted of wheat intended for bread, should be planted on the same space of ground ; for the thicker it is planted, the liner will be the straw. It is here gathered when the plant is in blossom, which as I have before said, is in Tuscany towards the end of June. — When it has risen to this state of maturity, it is about eighteen inches high ; it is then pulled up by the roots and left two or three days on dry ground to air, after which each straw is taken up separately and stripped of a thin pclli- ele which covers it, beginning at the top and so down to the first joint, above the surface of the ground; the tiift joint and root are broken olT, and are of no value. After this operation is per- formed on each straw, they are tied into small bundles of about four inches diameter; and im- mediately after, in order to bleach them, the bundles which are slightly bound with a straw, arc opened at both ends in the form of a fan, laid on a field of grass to take the nightly dew, and thus left for two months, carefully observ- ing to put them under cover whenever there is an appearance of rain, as the latter is prejudi- cial. When bleached, they are opened and separated into three qualities, which form the superfine, fine, and ordinary. The first is not only formed from the finest straws, but should be of the same size and color, and without spots or stains ; from these last are fabricated hats even to No. 100, which signifies 100 circles on the brim, which are easily counted. The straw when prepared is carefully preserved in dry chambers, when it is good for two or even for three years use. The working the straw into hats commences in September. The grounds in Tuscany, in which is produced this straw, are from ten to twenty miles from Florence, and lie in lat. 43,'IG. The thermometer of Fahren- heit rarely rises above Oo, and there are not ten days in winter when it descends to freezing point, or 32. I have not observed in twenty- three years of my residence here, more than three or four times the thermometer at five de- grees below congelation ; and this extreme at most for a single day. From November to the end of February, the thermometer, with the ex- ception I have mentioned, marks from 40 to 60. In the last six years I have not seen any snow on the level country, except about one inch for two or three days the last winter, while there is no example of the freezing of grounds. Hav- ing been absent from my native country for five and thirty years, 1 shall not hazard an opinion if the climate of Massachusetts is congenial to the growth of this plant; but as I am informed it succeeds in tlie plains of Lombardy and near to the Alps, I do not despair of a proportionate success in your state. In the villages where the straw hats are fabricated, it is the employment of all the inhabitants, from the oldest men and women down to children of three or four years. It is likewise their amusement, for they carry a little bunch into their afternoon or evening as- semblage, and it is worked with as much ap- parent inattention as our women knit in Ameri- ca. On one side of the waist is fastened the lit- tle bunch of straw, and on the other the strands they have braided. They have brought this interesting and pleasing employment to such perfection, that 1 have seen hats which were bought at two hundred dollars each.'' It was not until the middle of .\pril, that this wheat came to Boston. I caused it to be distribu- ted ; one bushel to Leman Stone, Esq. of Der- by, the President of the Agricultural Society for the county of N. Haven ; from this parcel 1 have not received any account, but hope soon to have a full report from that quarter; other par- cels went to the states of Maine, N. Hampshire, Vermont, and in one instance to N. York ; other small parcels were disposed of in my own im- mediate neighborhood. I have received but few accounts of the culture of this plant, but I'rom my own observations upon what I saw growing, 1 am fully in the belief that this grain can be cultivated in New England, and the man- ufacture of hats eventually carried to as great perfection, as it has attained in Tuscany. The finest and best straw which 1 have seen, was cultivated by Doctor M. Spaulding of Am- herst, N. H. (an ingenious and scientific agricul- turist;) an account of his mode is contained in the following extract from his letter to me on the subject, to wit : — " I sowed the wheat on the 20th of April, 1822, just as 1 received it, without .any preparation, except mixing with it a little air slacked lime. The quantity of seed put upon the ground, was agreeable to the in- structions which you had published in the news- papers. The land was a light, dry, sandy loam soil, rather elevated, and not entirely free from stones. It had been planted with potatoes the year before. The wheat or straw [from forget- fulness] stood a few days longer in the field, before gathering, than the newspaper instruc- tions would seem to allow ; no peculiar atten- tion was paid to the preparation of the ground, more than is common for the sowing of oats, or any other spring grain. I am of opinion that you sowed yours upon too rich a soil, that my success was not owing to superior skill, but in- ferior soiiy The next best sample which I saiv was cultivated by John Hubbard, a farmer in Groton. His account is, that towards the last of April, he sowed one pint of the wheat which came from Tuscany, upon a piece of ground that had been planted the preceding year ; that in the centre of the field, which he sowed with oats, he staked out a small square, taking care not to carr}' any of the oats into it, and sowed his wheat about four times as thick as is sown to raise spring wheat ; being thus shaded on the sides by the oats, it grew very even, was but very little rusted, that he reaped some part of it, and had about two quarts of grain, which he thinks equal in quality to the seed he sowed ; that he saved a parcel of the straw, which an aged motl>er prepared agreea- ble to Mr. Appleton's directions, and from which she made a hat, of a quality about equal to No. 10, [or 10 rims to a good sized brim,] the straw appeared as tough aad firm as the im- ported hats. In most cases, where I saw the wheat grow- ing, it appeared to have been planted in rows, on a rich soil, and instead of attaining the height of 18 inches, as it does in Tuscany, ac- tualfy grew upwards of 4 feet, and was too coarse for use, though it retained a supple tex- ture, and it appeared to me might well have been wrought into carpets. 1 should recom- mend to those who intend to cultivate this wheat, to have one field for the purpose of raising seed, vThere the preparation of the ground should be like that which good cultivators of spring wheat use, and I am clearly of opinion, that the earlier it is sown in the spring the better will be the chfince of a crop. Those who cultivate for the straw had better sow broad cast, and eight times as thick as is usually sown for bread-stuff; the ground should be a light loam, without any manure. It is well known to all farmers, that the thicker any grain, or grass, flax or other plants, are sown, the fin- er will be the straw ; and a gravelly knoll, such as we sometimes observe in a rye field, where there is a slender straw, almost without heads, appears to be well adapted to produce fine straw, and where the field or patch of ground can be surrounded with other grain (so as not to have any outside rows,) the straw will be brighter, and less liable to rust. How far the process used by the straw-braid- ers in Massachusetts, of bleaching with brim- stone, can be successfully applied to the Leg- horn straw, in preference to the slow process used in Tuscany, of bleaching by the dew, lime and experience can determine. The manufacture of straw in the vicinity where I reside, is annually becoming a more important branch of industry, which is wholly NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 213 II lareJ in families, every part of the tnanu- a ire being domestic. It is a well known fact, h in many towns and villag-es, the proceeds il 16 Dianufacture of straw exceeds the value illl the surplus beef, pork, butter, grain and jr that is sent to market. Hence the ad- ■itages jvhich will result from tlie introduc- I of a more firm and durable stnuv than rye, 1 which the labor of so many persons can well bestowed, are continually becoming e obvious. I am, sir, your obedient servant, SAMUEL DANA, ifroton, Jan. 1823. REMARKS BY THE EDITOR. Vt fully concur with the Hon. writer of the preced- article, with regard to the probable public benefit le derived from the cultivation of the kind of wheat re described, and the introduction of the manufac- ! of Leghorn bonnets, k.c. We would, however, jest the propriety of the application of a small ntity of lime, finely pulverized, to the soil on which proposed to raise this, as well as any other kind of at, unless it is sown on lime stone laud. lu Tus- y, we are told, that the soil on which this wheat is n, is selected among calcareous [lime stone] hills. le, it is said by chemists, constitutes a part of the w, as well as of the berry of wheat. If lime is nei- • native in the soil, nor supplied by art, we do not how the wheat-plant, which is constituted in part line, can possibly be matured. The lime may be .er caustic or quick lime, pounded lime stone, or lime mortar, or plaster reduced to fine powder. As igorous or large growth of wheat straw, however, ot wished for, a small quantity of lime would pro- ly answer. It is hardly necessary to observe that wstic lime is used it should not be applied while plants are growing. See X. E. Farmer, No. 12, p. 92 ; No. 18, p. 139 ; No. 24, p. 192. FACTS AND OBSERVATIONS RELITIXG TO RICULTURE &, DOMESTIC ECONOMY. FOR THE NEW ENGLAND FARMER. On Neat Cattle. (Continued from p. 204.) Among the most remarkable breeds of ani- ils of the Bos, or Neat Cattle genus, are the ild Cattle of Great Britain. This breed is at resent to be met within some gentlemen's rks, where they are said to remain in their iginal wild state. The following account of em is given by Mr. Bailey, an English writer. " Their color is invariably of a creamy white; I uzzle, black ; the whole of the inside of the I IF, and about one third of the outside, from the iips, downward, red ; horns white, with black ps, very fine, and bent upivard ; some of the r ills have a thin, upright mane, about an inch ■ id an half, or two inches long. The weight r fthe oxen is from 35 to 45 stone, and the cows cm 25 to 35 stone, the four quarters, 14 lb. to le stone. The beef is tineiy marbled, and of 0 excellent flavor. " From the nature of their pasture, and the •equent agitation they are put to by the curios- y of strangers, it is scarce to be expected they bould get very fat ; yet the six year old oxen . re generally, very good beef, from whence it lay be fairly supposed, that in proper situa- lOns they would feed well. " ki the first appearance of any person, they et off in full galk)p,.and, at about the distance of two hundred yards, make a whirl round and come boldly up again, tossing their heads in a menaciisg manner ; on a sudden, they make a full stop at the distance of forty or fifty yards, looking wildly at t!io object of their surprise ; but upon the least motion being made, they all again turn round, and fly off with equal speed, but not to the same distance, forming a shorter circle, and again returning with a bolder and more threatening aspect than before ; they ap- proach much nearer, probably within thirty yards, when they again make another stand, and again fly off; this they do several times, short- ening their distance, and advancing nearer and nearer, till they come within such a short dis- tance, that people think it most prudent to leave them, not choosing to provoke them further. " The mode of killing them, was, perhaps, the only modern remains of the grandeur of an- cient hunting. On notice being given that a wild bull would be killed on a certain day, the inhabitants of the neighborhood came mounted, and armed with guns, &.C. ; sometimes to the amount of an hundred horse, and four or five hundred foot, who stood upon walls, or got into trees, while the horsemen rode off the bull from the rest of the herd, till he stood at bay, when a marksman dismounted and shot him. At some of these huntings, twenty or thirty shots have been fired, before he was subdued. On such occasions, the bleeding victim grew desperately furious from the smarting of his wounds, and the shouts of savage joy that were echoed on every side. But from the number of accidents that happened, this dangerous mode has been but little practiced of late years, the park keeper alone generally shooting them with a rifle gun at one shot. "•' When the cows calve, they hide their calves for a week or ten days, in some sequest- ered situation, and go and suckle them two or three times a day. If any person comes near their calves, they clap their heads close to the ground, and lie like a hare in form, to hide themselves ; this is a proof of their native wild- ness, and is corroborated by the following cir- cumstance, which happened to the writer of this narrative, who found a hidden calf, two days old, very lean, and very weak : on stroking its head, it got up, pawed two or three times like an old bull, bellowed very loud, stepped back a few steps, and bolted at his legs with all its force ; it then began to paw again, bellowed, stepped back, and bolted as before ; but know- ing its intention, and stepping aside, it missed him, fell, and was so very weak, that it could not rise, though it made several efforts ; but it had done enough, the whole herd were alarm- ed, and coming to its rescue, obliged him to re- tire ; for the dams will allow no person to touch their calves without attacking them with im- petuous ferocity." The foregoing are some of the most remark- able breeds of neat cattle, where the varieties are most strongly marked. To enumerate all the kinds which are treated of by British and other foreign writers, would require a large volume. We shall, therefore, omit for the pres- ent, any farther notice of any particular breed of neat cattle, and proceed to such facts and ob- servations as apply to all the varieties of this most useful quadruped, which the art of man has ever brought within the sphere of his do- minion " In point of utility and profit, no animal can stand in competition with the cow ; a sentiment which has been universal from the primitive ages, and which, to this moment, has lost noth- ing of its force or truth. Her milk, so indis- pensable to civilized man, is her mo>t precious product, and of which the value, in various forms, is so universally and feelingly under- stood. Of this real liquor of life, more valan- blc than the richest ^vines, the cow will give the amount of irxur.y times her u-ciglit in the course of a year, and every year, that she con- tinues in a constant state of reproduction, unto the end of life, when her last gitt toman is food of the most substantial kind, and so many arti- cles of various uses, that no part of her carcase need be wasted or lost ; the worth of these re- places, probably doubles her original cost.'"* For some of the marks of a good cow, the reader is referred to No. 3, page 21, of the New England Farmer. To the signs thert- specified, may be added the following. " The indications of copious milking, in whatever spe- cies of cows, arc a capacious and thin udder, large teats, with a large and distinct milk-vein ; these are generally accompanied with a fineness of the head and chops ; thinness of the neck, and somewhat gaunt and meagre appearance of body, promising no great tendency to fatten. In common when a large and fine udder is found, sufficient milking need not be doubted."' The cow goes nine months! with young, and rarely produces but one calf at a time. — Where the herd is extensive, an account should always be kept of the time when each cow goes to the male, that she may be dried off at a rea- sonable distance of time before the gestation be completed. The most proper time for the cow to be dried off, according to a writer in Rees' Cyclopedia, is about two months before lier calving, when she ought to he suffered to lie quiet, and not be brought up with the other cows at the milking or suckling times ; for if a cow be continued in milk nearer to the time of calving than two months, it will not only great- ly injure her future progeny, by rendering it weakly and stunted, but will have an ill effect on the health of the cow herself It is, howev- er, said by others, that when cows are well fed, they may be continued in milk till within a week or two of their calving, without suffering any injury from it. But, in general way, it is thought best to let them go dry for a month, or six weeks, or more, according to their condition, in order to the more fully recruiting their strength. But where only one or two cows are kept for the use of a family, it may be well to know that, by good feeding., they may be contin- ued in milk till within ten days or a fortnight of the time of their calving, without much incon- venience or injury to the animal. During the winter season, the cows which are expected shortly to calve, ought to be lodged every night under some convenient shelter, tor a week or two previous to calving ; as it may be the means of saving the life of the calf and perhaps of the dam likewise. If the cow catches cold by calving abroad, which may be perceived by her trembling joints, and her re- fusal of food, she ought immediately to be hous- ed under a warm shed, or other building, togeth- * Lawrence on Neat Cattle. t Generally about from 270 to 300 days. England Fanner No. 18, p. 138. See New 214 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. er with her calf, and treated as heretofore di- rected incases of cold.* She should be allowed the best and sweetest hay, and not suffered to drink any cold water. The milch cow is generally in her prime at five year! old, and will commonly continue in a good milking slate till ten years of ape, or up- ivards ; but this depends greatly on the consti- tution of the animal; some cows, like other ani- mals, exhibiting marks of old age, much earlier than others. They can, however, seldom be kept with advantage to such an age. ♦ See New Eugland Farmer, No. 23, p. 177. (to be continued.) FOR THE NEW ENGLAND FAR.MER. v3 Ql'ESTIO^' /.V PRACTICAL SVRFEYI.\G. There was a wealthy farmer had an extensive pasture for his calves, geese, &c. It was bound- ed by seven very irregular sides and angles — on one of the lines there was a pond or spring head — in his will he left it to his two sons to be oqually divided in two parts, by one straight line drawn through the spring for both parts to have water. 1 demand the rule by which it may be most readily done, either hy calculation or Semi Geometry, and if the answer is not made in three months after this is published, life and health permitting, I will endeavor to shew how it may be done by calculations, or far more readily by Semi Geometry^ if I could have cor- rect plates engraved. SAMUEL PRESTON. Stockport, Pa. Jan. 18, 1823. ' THE FARMER. BOSTON :— SATURDAY, FEB. 1, 1823. The attention of our readers is requested to an inter- esting article (page 212 of our present No.) on the sub- ject of TiscANY Wheat, imported by the lion. Mr. Dana. Samples of the straw, the braid, and the wheat, may be seen at the office of the New Knglaiid Farmer. Seed wheat of this kind may be obtained iu small par- cels, at the store of Mr. Joseph Bridge, No. 25, Court- street. ON SAVING AND MAKING THE .MOST OF MAXlRr.. (^Continutd from, page IPl.) In our last number on this subject, we showed ♦hat actual experiment would appear to warrant a conclusion that the vrine of neat cattle, it' properly collected, preserved, and applied, would furnish more manure or food for plants, in the proportion of 7 to C, than the solid evacuations of the same cattle. And that " in five months, each cow discharges urine, which, when absorbed by loam, furnishes manure of the richest quality, and most durable effect, for half an acre of ground." If this be true in its full extent, it is certainly a great discovery ; and perhaps of as much importance to farmers, as the introduction of Plaister of Paris, clover, or any other of the artificial grasses. We style it a discovcri), because if cultivator* in general, had ever been apprised of the value of this sub- stance, it cannot well be credited that they would let it be wasted, or worse than wasted ; serving (o corrupt the air instead of feeding the crops of the farmer, and giving him poison, when, »vilh a little attention, it might fiynish him with food. And here, before we advance any further on the regular highway of our dis- course, we beg to be indulged in the liberty of stepping aside, in a short digression, (or what the poets call episode) on the value of manure in general. When we reflect that the old adage " manure is the mother of corn"' is not only true, but that we may carry the sentiment still farther, and say that manure is the parent of all profitable vegetation, we cannot but be deeply impressed with the importance of embracing every practi- cable and economical method of saving and ma- king the most of so precious a product. By proper attention to the accumulation and appli- cation of manure, our lands instead of u-Caring niit, would improve under the hand of the culti- vator, and produce crops greater in quantity, and superior in quality' to those which grew upon them when first reclaimed by the axe and the harrow tVoin a state of nature. Our hardy yeomen instead of leaving the land of their fath- ers to waste their lives in the wildernesses of the West, might remain at home contented and happy, in possession of all the privileges and comforts of cultivated society, together with as much affluence as is necessary for the pursuit and enjoyment of happiness. By increasing our manure, we increase our crops, and by increas- ing our crops, we accumulate manure. The cause not only produces the effect, but the ef- fect gives additional efficiency to the cause. — The farmer who neglects to preserve and make a judicious use of his manure, will not only starve his next succeeding crops, but weakens or destroys the first link in his whole chain of crops. His first step is down hill, and having begun to back slide, every day renders his progress, in the way of good and protitable farming, more and more difficult. But to return and resume the thread of our Essays. Notwithstanding the experiments of Mr. Alexander, detailed in our former observa- tions, would seem to lead to a belief that the ! urine of neat stock is of more value than their, dung and litter, there are some things to be j thought of, which would make this at least a disputable, if not a doubtful conclusion. Sir John Sinclair, although he allows this substance to be ^ useful, does not rate it so high as would seem, to be its value, according to the result of Mr. I .Alexander's experiment.?, and the remarks there-' on, which we have quoted from the " Letters of Agricola." In the code of Agriculture (page 202,) it is stated that " every sort of urine con- tains the essential elements of vegetables in a state of solution. The urine of a horse, being so much lighter, would be more valuable than its dung, if both were conveyed to any distance. The urine of six cows or horses will enrich a quantity of earth sufficient to top-dress one En- glish acre of grass land ; and as it would require lour pounds worth of dung to perform the same operation, the urine of a cow or horse is ivorth about 12s. per annum, allowing 8s. per acre as the expense of preparing the compost.'' Per- haps, moreover, the whole of the urine may not be lost, if it is not separated from the solid ma- nure. If the cattle are well littered, a part of the liquids will be absorbed by the straw or oth- er litter, and a part, mixmg with the excrenien- tious matter, may increase the strength and effi- cacy of the latter. This may be a usel'ul re- suit when the dung is intended for one of the ingredients of compost, and is to be ditutcd (if StiL. 0 Mi we may use the expression in this case) earth. The excrements of cattle, howevJ kept under cover, (as they should be till apij to the soil,) are a manure sufficiently powtt'irf To add urine to dung, which has neither dried by the sun and air, nor wasted by would not, in our opinion, be the most econ cal method of disposing of the former snbste Fresh urine, when undiluted, will sometimej stroy vegetables, and when it is added to l dung, and applied to plants, it affords then Iriment in too concentrated a state. Fee plants with a substance of this kind, woul faj like attempting to nourish animals with pur <* or sugar, and to stimulate them with unm alcohol. For these reasons, as well as foi sake of preventing putrescent fermentation are fully of opinion that the liquid ought t b; kept separate from the solid parts of cattle ii> nure. With regard to the mode in which the si ration of each of these substances can be i| economically effected, and both the solid liquid parts preserved and applied in the i| effectual manner, it would be difficult tc| down general rules, applicable to all cases, will, however, suggest a few hints for the sideration of practical farmers. 1st. Loam, peat, or other earth may bei posited under horse and cow stable.*, and'ie liquid part of the manure allowed to filter 1 1)' cracks or small holes bored in the floor ; w di for such purpose should be composed of pi. Id easily taken up. This method has been ad(l< ed by Mr. Willistoir, of Brookfield, Mass. a? - ted in the Agricultural Repository, vol. iv. i 193. In this way, however, we should ap e hend the liquid matter would not spread eve y. nor impregnate the earth below equally. 2d. There may be a gutter or offset fixed &■ hind the cattle, consisting of boards or pla with cracks, or crevices between them, to mit the liquid matter to descend. Below may be a pit or trench, which may, as occa: requires, be filled with earth to receive w ever flows from the stable. But here the si objection would apply, which is stated in the mentioned method. In either case, the toj the earth or loam might become encrusted such a manner, that the liquid would stant the surface, and form a noisome and foetid p instead of incorporating with the earth these methods, however, have been adopter we learn, with some degree of success. 3d. Barrels, hogsheads or other proper ^ sels may be sunk at each corner of the stabit' cow house, and channels or gutters lead to th' so that they may receive the drainings fi the cattle. These may be emptied as occa; n requires, and incorporated with loam or ot r proper substance, which should be under co; ", so as to make a rich compost. Or, in the pro r season, the contents of these cisterns may J used to water vegetables either by means ( i gardener's watering pot, or by a hogshead :• tached to a box, full of holes, the whole drao by oxen, and the liquor sprinkled over » ground as they advance, according to the m(i- od pursued by Mr. Smith, as stated in hisaddi;! published in the New England Farmer, t\oi, page 44. Both these last mentioned modes nf be adopted; the liquid applied to manure, gr:»i or other vegetables in the proper season, .i when uot wanted for that purpose, may be blc ■ NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 215 nd incorporateJ with lo.im. The loam may .ept unJer cover for thai purposo, aucl with aid of a hoe, or garden rake, may be easilv equally impregnated with Ihe salt*, kc. ph wore held la solution l)y the liquid ap- d. (to BK CoNTlNUCP.) FARMER SUMMARY OF NEWa - >NGRI^SS. — There appears to be but little bifsi- yet completed by that body which is ot general iii- t. Bills are read and comiiiithd^ and bills to prc- debtors being cotniniited seem to be the order ot " lay. Various details of ma,*.ter3 anj things relating: li essrs. A. B. ii C. which to give in detail would " a a (red pens require" are presented, debated, and sonn . H probably bedicided upon, either during the present Ime future session. By a communication from the itary of the Treasury, it appears that the imports e yi ar amounted to $8J,'241.54I, and the exports I (2,160,-iiJl. I'he bill (or the disbursement of pub- loaey is still before the !?enate. Mr. I'lumer of N. as reported a bill for allowing costs to patentees, executors, Sic. where the sum recovered shall not ss than fifty dollars. A committee have reported ' it is not expedient to legislate on the subject of vac- ion. Messi's. Gales and SeatoD, proprietors of the jnal Intelligencer, complained to the House that honesty as printers had been impeached by an ar- ia the Washington Republican. This relates to thing, thought to implicate Mr. Crawl'ord, relative rtain Banks to the westward, but of which it be- s us to be mute, as the alTair is before a committee e House. Whenever it assumes a tangible, matter t fhape, we shall put our hand upon it. tSSACHUSETTS LEGISLATURE.— This honor- body appears to be chiefly occupied in concerns of al and private nature. A number of companies been incorporated of a religious and secular na- Among the latter is the " Boston Gas Light pany," who will probably shed light in our paths. •y accomplish this and we do not then walk in the my of rectitude it will not be their fault. A peti- las been exhibited for converting .Amherst Acade- ito a College, but the petitioners have had leave thdraw their petition. A bill has passed the House, h provides for the payment of one per centum on mount of all goods, wares and merchandize, and lalf per centum on the amount of .all real estate It auction in this state. The bill respecting pub- orship and religious freedom has passed the House as 67, nays 41. , ')REIGN. — Letters from Smyrna, as late as the of Nov. confirm the account of the return of the '1 ash fleet to Tenedos, but state nothing of any seri- ** ingagement with the Greek fleet. The defeat of MParkish array, which had invaded the Morea, is inl| confirmed ; but the remains of it, at the last date, [fl posted in the citadel of Corinth, and besieged by ,1 jtreeks. ^ late arrival from Europe at New York has brought I ligence from London to the 9th Dec. By this it ap- [Hs that the British and Portuguese are determined (jrt main neutral in the dispute between France and A I Q ; and that the Cortes are determined to reject J proposition for modifying their constitution. ''ac war still continued between Persia and Turkey, *» it was reported that the Persians were within a ffll hours march of Bagdad. There was no prospect f,;;4 war between Russia and Turkey, ,. |! Mexico public affairs wear a revolutionary aspect, ft the reign of Iturbide seems near a period. Gen. "Na Anna has raised the standard of revolution, and ■ k published a proclamation replete with promises M patriotism. On the 6th of Dec. three days previ- >'tn his proclamation, the general sent a letter to his E rial master, advising him to abdicate, and intimat- r that he could enforce his reasons with two thousand 1 :iif-t8. The Fort of San Ullao has surrendered to It troops of Iturbide. Aflfairs in Havana appear to be Uling into a quiet and commercial state. I late New Orleans paper says, " a rumor has been J^tral days in circulation here, that the British are ll|it embarking seven black regiments from their Isl- fcs inthe West Indies, ia order to take possession of such parts of the Island of Cuba as have become noto- I ious for piracy." A school has iieen established at Edinburgh, for im- parting to mechanics the philosophical principlis of Ihrir revpoctivc occupations; and a similar school at (ilasgow, uudir i>r. Ore, who Irctiives on the various braiiclus of scitiice connected v;ith the arts. '1 he Dry of Algiers has issued a ducric that every bachdor of more than 'JO years of ago, shall be flogged in public every day till he takes a wife. DOMESTIC— On the night of the 12th ult. the house of Mr. Nathan Ross, Jr. of .Vnson, Maine, was consumed by fire, and Mrs. Ross, with three children, were burnt to death. — On the 9th ult. a young v.oman of Charleston, S. C. died in consequence of injury sus- tained by her clothes taking fire ; her sister was mate- rially injured in attempting her rescue. — The dwelling house of Mr. Calvin Uriggs, of Putney, Vt. was con- sumed by fire on the night of the i3d ult. together with the household furniture, nearly all Mr. B.'s pa- pers, some money, about $.100 worth of leather, and all the provisions and clothing for his family. — A fac- tory in \'ernon. Con. owned by a Mr. Abbot, was de- stroyed by fire, on the 24th ult. — Several stores, con- taining valuable merchandize, among which was '100 bales of cotton, crates of crockery, &c. were consumed at Philadelphia last week ; supposed to be the work of an incendiary. The maniac Trask, who lately broke jail in Boston, has been taken in the barn of the Hon. Christopher Gore, in Waltham, without resistance, and returned to the jail from whence he escaped. He had on the iron collar and fetters, with which he was encombered pre- vious to his escape. The House of Assembly of New-York has passed an act to abolish Imprisonment for Debt. Slate Prison. — According to a report for the year ending on the 30th September last, the average num- ber of convicts in the prison was about 275. The num- ber received during the year, was 91 — the number dis- charged was 83, of whom 14 only were pardoned — 10 died, and one escaped. The amount received from the sales of stone was $23,796 ; the amount for labor of shoemakers, weavers, brush-makers. Sic. $9,844. The balance against the prison, on the accounts of the year, was $8,371, besides the salaries of the directors, phy- sicians, chaplain, and warden, amounting to $2,900. .Vfchanicat Invinfion. — -A Clover Mill has been erect- ed at Poughkeepsie, N. Y. under the direction of Mr. Boulton, which is highly spoken of, as calculated to separate all the seed from the chaff, and, at the same time, leave the former remarkably clean and hand- some. The machinery is described as very simple, the cost trifling ; and, if generally used by the fanners of Dutchess county, it is calculated that, instead of pur- chasing their clover seed, gi-own in other parts of the Union, they will be able in a few years to raise a sufli- cient supply for themselves. — JV. 1', Mechanics^ Gas. TO CORRESPONDENTS. We have received at too late a period for insertion in the present paper a very valuable communication from a gentleman in Worcester, which we shall publish in our next. The delay in our reception of the manu- script, we understand, was caused by its contents hav- ing been communicated to a number of gentlemen, be- longing to the Legislature, for purposes connected with the interests of agriculture. The paper from a gentleman from Newton, on the subject of pruning fruit trees, &c. is received, and shall soon be published. LAW OF PATENTS FOR NEW INVENTIONS. CHARLES EWER, No. 51, Cornhill, Boston, has just published, " An Fssay on the Law of Patents for New Inventions. By Thomas G. Fessenden, Coun- sellor at Law. The second edition, with large addi- tions, corrected and improved by the author." This work is adapted as well to the use of the Artist and Mechanic as of the Lawyer. The whole was care- fully reviewed in manuscript, and recommended by gentlemen of the first legal talents in New England. — The Hon. Judge Story, in a letter to the author, ob- served, *' I have no hesitation in expressing my opin- ion that the book will be highly useful to all persons, who are engaged in obtaining patents, or in vindicating them in Courts of Justice, The manuscript contains a colb'ction of all the cases, on the subject of Patents, within my knowledge ; and tlie principles contained in them are detailed with accuracy and fulness in the Summary at the conclusion, 1 know of no work so conipri hi- iibive as yours on the subject ; and it may be relied on as a safe guid( ." The Hon. If'ilUam I'rcscott, and the Hon. Daniel U'tiisltr, after pCTusing the manusciipt stated th-ir o[.i:.ion as Ibllows: " This edition is a great improve- ment on the first, and we think it will be a valuable and useful book to the profession, as it contains the statutes, and states, we believe accurately, all, or near- ly all the decisions, which have been made on a branch of law, daily growing more interesting and important.^' George Sulliran, I'sq. a gentleman who has paid much attention to this branch of law, has likewise favored the work with a recommendation, from which the fol- lowing is an extract ; " Your method of arranging all the decisions in the order of an analytical digest of the several requirements and provisions of our statutes for granting patents, puts the lawyer at once in possession of the judicial con- struction of the statutes ; while your synthetic Summa- ry, far more extended and comprehensive than in the former edition, places within reach of the mechanic a sure means of judging whether his invention is a fit subject for a patent ; what is required of him by the statute in order to obtain his patent ; and what provis- ions are enacted for securing to himself and heirs, his meritorious privilege." Feb. 1. PRICES OF COUNTRY PRODUCE, &c. [Revised and corrected every Friday.] FROM TO D. C. D. C. ASHES, pot, 1st qual. . . . ton. 145 00 150 00 pearl do 150 00 155 00 BEANS, white, bush 90 95 BEEF, mess, 200 cwt. . . . bbl. 9 50 10 cargo. No. 1 " No. 2 8 50 7 50 9 8 00 BUTTER, inspect. 1st qual. . lb. 14 15 " 2d qual. . 12 13 small kegs, family, 16 17 CHEESE, new milk .... 7 9 FLAX 8 9 FLAX SEED . bush 1 00 1 10 FLOUR, Baltimore, superfine, bbl. 7 25 7 50 Gencssee .... 7 50 Rye, best .... 4 25 4 50 GRAIN, Rye bush 85 90 Corn 72 75 Oats 45 43 HOGS' LARD, 1st sort . . lb. 9 10 HOPS, No. 1, 11 12 LIME cask 1 25 1 50 OIL, Linseed, American . . gal. 65 70 PLAISTER PARIS .... ton. 3 00 3 25 PORK, Navy Mess .... bbl. 12 00 12 50 Bone Middlings . . . 14 50 15 Od Cargo, No. 1, ... 12 00 12 50 Cargo, No. 2, . . . 11 00 11 50 SEEDS, Herd's Grass . . • bush 2 00 2 25 Clover lb. 8 9 WOOL, Merino, full blood,washed 65 75 do. 7-8 & 15-1« do. 60 65 do. 3-5 do. 60 54 do. 1-2 do. 46 48 do. 1-4 do. 42 44 Native .... do. 37 40 Pulled, Lamb's, 1st sort 68 60 do. Spinning, Ist sort 50 PROVISION MARKET. BEEF, best pieces .... lb. 8 9 PORK, fresh 5i 6 VEAL 7 8 MUTTON, 3 7 POULTRY, 5 8 BUTTER, keg & tub ... 16 17 lump, best . . . 22 24 EGGS, ......... doz. 22 25 MEAL, Rye, bush 90 Indian, 80 POTATOES, .; 37 CIDER, liquor, HAY, best, bbl. ton. 1 50 22 00 24 09 I 21G NEW ENGLAND FARiMER. CEREMONY ; Or, more Compliminls than Courtesy. " Sir, will you please to walk before :" No, pr;iy Sir, you are next the door, "Upon mine honor, I'll not stir — " Sir, I'm at home, consider Sir, — " Excuse me. Sir, I'll not go first," Well, if I must, why then I must — But yet I wish I could evade it — '^Tis strangely clownish, be persuaded: Go forward cits I go forward, squires, Nor scruple each, what each admires. I^ife squares uot, friends, with your proceeding ; It flies, while you display your breeding ; Puch breeding as one's granam preaches, Or some old dancing-master teaches. O, for some rude, tumultuous fellow Half crazy, or at least half mellow. To come behind you unawares And fairly push you both down stairs ! But death's at hand, let me advise ye Go forward, friends, or he'll surprise ye. From the New York Statesman. NORTHEIW COTTON. .\ valued frienH and correspondent, about 12 months since, wrote several essays which were inserted in the Statesman under tlic signature of " Agricola,"' on the cultivation of cotton in this 'vicinity, and urging upon our agriculturists to make the attempt. The idea that this plant, a native of a warm and sunny climate, would vegetate in our bleak northern latitude, or at most do more than spring from the ground and perish before a branch would put forth, was perfectly novel, and considered by many, not- withstanding the ingenious arguments of " Agri- cola," as entirely chimerical. Our correspon- dent was so confident in his belief, that he pro- cured at his own expense, a number of barrels of seed from the south, wliich were deposited with us for gratuitous dislribution. The result of several experiments has already been stated, and specimens of cotton of the growth of the past year, rendered it certain that this plant could be advantageously cultivated in this cli- mate, were we assured that the frost would appear no earlier than it did the last season. But we have now the satisfaction ot communi- cating to the public the result of an experi- ment, aflording abundant evidence of theimpor- tunt fact, thai cotton can be raised with us, not only -jsithout fear of injury from the frost, but that it is one of the most certain crops which can be produced. We have seen this morning, at the Auction Room of David Dunham, Esq. the crop of cot- ton which grew in his garden at his seat on Long Island, , and which was picked on the 5th, Mtli, and ^.'jth, of December and 1 1th of the ]>resent month. It is all of an excellent quality, in eve- ry respect equal to any of the numerous speci- mens we liavc seen vvliicb were picked before the frost had touched the plant. We have little doubt, the discovery that frost does not prevent this plant, after it has arrived at a certain stage. from yielding the desired croj), will be produc- tive of Important result to tliis section of the country, and we take pleasure in presenting the following interesting memorandum obtained from Mr. Dunham. " The cotton here exhibited was raised in my garden on Long-Island from about 250 to 300 plants ; the seeds procured fiom the editors of the Statesman last spring, and by them obtained from a gentleman friendly to agriculture. The seeds were put in the ground on the border of the garden the early part of May, but by inat- tention, the sea island and upland were planted promiscuously ; six, eight and ten seeds were oc- casionally put into a hill, when on their coming up, the stalks were found to be too thick, and the surplus plants were transplanted into an open field with some corn ; immediately after which we had a terrible drought, and the plants were so much stunned that they came to little or nothing. In the border of the garden there were many flowers planted, which must rather have impeded the growth of the cotton, for some of the plants wete almost hidden by shade. In .August the plants began to flower, and they grew very luxuriantly till the first frost, which completely checked all further vegetation. At this time there had been but one picking, on the 20th Oct. The gardner was about to pull up and throw away the residue of the plants, as being of no value, but was prevented, and on the 1st of Nov. as tine a picking was made as the one previous. The 20th of (he same month another picking, on the 5tli, 14th and 25th days of Dec. three other pickings, and on the 14th of Jan. the present month, a still furth- er picking; and a few more pods, ripe, may be found towards the first of February. " The curiosity about the growth of cotton in this climate appears to be this, — till now it was supposed that our season was not long enough to raise cotton, and that immediatly after the frost appeared no more could be counted on : but from the experiment here adduced, it will be seen, that so far from the frost destroying the vital parts of vegetation, it only stops its progress, leaving so much nourishment in the plant, that with the aid of dry, cold weather, every pod of any size, matures, expands and opens, like a chesnut burr; and the cotton, in point of staple and every thing else relating thereto, is fully equal to that produced before the frost made its appearance, with the single ex- ception that the pods are not so large, and ap- pear to be stopped in the growth, immediately after frost appears. '■ To every person wishing to make the ex- periment, the writer would recommend that the ground be prepared as for corn ; that the seeds be put into the hills about the same distance a])art, and that not more than four or five stalks be suffered to remain in each hill ; that the cot- ton be ploughed and hoed, in the same manner as corn, and if found to grow too luxuriantly, nip off the tops, and it will be found to yield more pods. It should never be suffered to grow above from three to four feet high ; and be sure to plant early, as it is better to run the risk of having the first crop cut ofl with the spring frost, than be too late in planting ; for il you can only get your plants well stocked with pods before the fall frosts set in, you need not be alarmed but that vou will gather a plentiful crop. DAVID DUNHAM. A farmer in New York has raised the past year, from twelve old ones, four hundrcxi and Jorty Turkies. A large eagle was lately shot from the top of a tree on the bank of the Delaware, li^iving a fox trap attached to one fool, which hul been missing from its place for five days or more. An equivocal Epithet. — It is common, m days, to say the character of such a mt advantageously known. Query, does it advantage to the individual spoken of, others ? — Charleston Courier. A blind man on leaving a company of la said he was sure there was one present had a fine set of teeth, for she kept up a tinual laugh for two hours. ,\n Irishman being asked, how do y(nV' potatoes in Ireland ? Faith, says he, we calPem at all, for when we want 'em we gc gat "em. NEW SYSTEM OF SHOEING HORSl JUST published, and for sale at the principal stores in this city, A NEW SYSTEM OF SJ ING HORSES, by Joseph Goodwin, Veterinar) geon to His Majesty George IV. and Member t Royal College of Surgeons ; including Observatic Bleeding and the Pulse, a Concise View of the A my of the Foot, Notes, Remarks, kc. Jan AMERICAN BIANUFACTURED PAPE HOLBROOK & FESSENDE.\ manufacture at Paper Mill, in Brattleborough, (Vt.) Wr Paper of an excellent quality, and much super any of a correspondent price imported. They Foolscap for $4,50 a ream, not inferior to Englis per which costs 49,00 a ream. Their Letter P is also fine, and sold cheaper than imported pape similar sort. Specimens may be seen at Mr. Loring's Bookstore, No. 1, South Row. Jan THE MENTOR AND LADIES' BOUQl NATHANIEL DEARBORN respectfully anno to the public, his mtention of issuing a W Paper, provided their patronage should authoriz attempt. This determination has been taken with the i of many friends, among whom are some ingenious %vhich are enlisted for this cause ; — it has also strengthened by the circumstance that the e. compositions have been deemed of sufficient generally, to be republished, which has been hi: reward. It will be the intent of the editor, to advan^ every degree within his power, the rational pie: of man ; — to plead the cause of virtue ; — to lui youthful mind to love and to embrace those prin which can never satiate, but which ennoble b nature. To our fair country women, we pledge our be forts to promote their interests ; — in every act i be our aim to merit their approbation. The pape be entitled The Mentor and Ladies'' Bouquet. Its general outline will consist of extracts froi entific works : — as a " Mentor," it will always cc some judicious moral essay ; — and for the *' L Bouquet," will be gleaned the choicest, fairest flc Its size will be a royal quarto, pagrcd — issued Saturday afternoon — Price, per j-car, $2,50 ; half $1,25 ; quarter of a year, 75 cents : — payable i; vance. Subscriptions received by Col. Benjamin Loring 50, State-street ; Mr. 1. W. Goodrich, No. 7C, Sta Mr. Josiah Eoring, No. 1, South Row, and at C. lender's Library, School-street. Should public favor be expressed for the appeal of this proposed work, the same will be annou through the medium of the daily prints. Jan HUSBANDMAN and HOUSEWIFE, by Th( G. Fessexden, for sale at this Office. Fifty Cents. Jan. THOMAS W. SHEPARD, RESPECTFULLY informs his friends and Ihep that he executes nil kinds of BOOK AND FINE JOB PRINTING, in the most fashionable manner, and on rcasoi; terms, at the Office of the New England FarJ ROGERS' BUILDING CONGRES.'^ST. NEW ENGLAND FARMER. .'ublished every Saturday, hy THOMAS ^^ . SHEPARD, Rojrers' Building, Congrees !>trect, Hntton ; at $-'.50 per ;vnn. in advuiice, or $3,00 at the close of the year^ Vol. I. BOSTON, SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 1823. No. 28. AN ADDRESS DELIVERED BEFORE THE MASSACHUSETTS AGRICUL- TfBAL SOCtETV AT THE BRIGHTON CATTLE SHOW, OCT. 9, 18-2. BV THE HON. TI.VOTHY PICKERING. Gentlemen of tW Massachusetts Society for the Promotion of Agriculture, It appears to be expected, tlat at each of vour anniversary meetings, a dis-ourse on Ag- riculture should be delivered. The Trustees of the Society have requested rae to address you at this time. But though willing to be laid under contribution to the great object of your | institution, it has occasioned a degree of solici-l tude to present something meritinc your atten- tion. From the multitude of books written on the subject of agriculture — embracing in that word whatever should employ the tkoughts and the labors of the skilful husbandmai — the field would appear almost boundless: ye', to select topics particularly interesting to the farmers of Massachusetts, and here to discuss them so as to communicate useful and acceptable information, was not unattended with difBculty. Mj address must necessarily be miscellaneous. Philosophers and practical husbandmlaister produced no effect until the land was limed. t While hnic operates very beneficially on stiong clays, it is said to be still more useful on lighter soils. To ascer- tain its elTccts on any lands, will require but little time an I a small expense. A sin;^le cask of lime will he sufficient tor a number of com- parative experiments. If a few adjoining rods ol laml be set apart for the purpose, and the lime, by slacking, brought to a line powder, it may be evenly spread on the several small strips, in difi'erent proportions, at the rate of twenty and any greater number of bushels to the acre. Then, by raking or harrowing, mix the lime with the surface soil, iind plant each strip equally and uniformly with Indian corn. One equal strip, tilled and planted exactly as the others, but loft unlimed, will ennhle the experimenter to see ivhat advantage may arise trom liming. In the next year the ell'ecls of lime in its respective proportions, may be furth- er tested, by sowing the same strips with equal quantities of one sort of grain and of grass seeds. In like manner, small experiments may be made to try the elTccts of clay on light sandy or gravelly loam^, and of sand on stiff clays. The clay should be carried on and spread, and lie on the surface during the winter, to break and moulder by the alternate frosts and thaivs, that it may be more eflectually mixed with the soil. As to the manner of applying lime, I am sat- isfied the bait is tliat recommended and practis- ril where lime has been most extensively used : that is, to slake it with water, and as soon as it (alls to a tine powder and is cool, to spread it evenly over the land, and with the harrow mix it with the soil; its greatest ulility depending on its intimate incorporation. In liming exten- sively, the lime is often, perhaps most common- ly, carried on and dnqqiod in small heaps, to be slaked by the moisture in the air : but it should be carefully attended to, that it may be spread as soon as it is slaked ; or there will otherwise he danger of its setting in bunps, which may never again be duly pulverized. If the application of lime be, as is represent- ed, so important to the great and permanent fer- tility of the soil (nnd *of this I entertain no doubt,) while the knowledge of the fact is all that is essential for the practical farmer to know; something more is desirable to satisfy in- quisitive minds; and if the reason for using lime, or its mode of operating, could be shown, it would give confidence to the husbandman, while it gratified the philosophical inquirer. A gentleman who is reputed to be one of the greatest chemists of the age (Sir Humphrey Davy) informs us that " when lime, whether freshly burnt or slacked, is mixed with any moist fibrous matter, there is a strong action be- * Memoirs of the Philadelphia Society of A'licul- ture, Vol. I. p. 193. tibid. Vol. 11, p. 187. tween the lime and the vegetable matter, and they form a kind of compo-t together, of which a part is soluble in water i" — that " by this kind of operation, lime renders mat(er which was be- fore comparatively inert, nutritive ; and a« char- coal and oxygene (vital air) abound in all veg- etable matters, it (the quick lime) becomes at the same time converted into carbonate of lime ;" that is, it is restored, by again combining with carbonic acid or fixed air, to the state in which it existed before it was burnt, except its being reduced to powder, .\gain he saj's — " Mild lime, powdered limestone, marles or chalks (for chalk is a limestone) have no action of this kind upon vegetable matter; by their action they prevent the too rapid decomposition of substances already dissolveine, with the carbonic acid which is gene- rated \ prone to adhere to old usages, w'lcre no "ood reasons can bo given for thoni. New practices in husbandry are often — periiaps chiefly — at- tempted by persons not bred to that occupation, land these, for want of practical skill, may often Ifail in the execution ; and when successful, the Isuccess is ascribed to a liberal expenditure of money, beyond the ability of the mere tarmer. But what risk will attend experiments made by farmers themselves, to test the value of these novelties ? Each one for himself can try them on as small pieces of ground as shall suit his convenience, and at a very small expense of :ime and money. The introduction of improvc- •nenls would be tucilitaled, if the money cxpend- >d, and especially the quantily' of lahnr bestow- ;d upon thom, were always accurately stated, ind their auilienticity vouched by the names of he imiirovers. And if the experimenters, in hese cases, who hire all the labor, and this )ften performed in their absence, are merely lot lasers. — practical farmers, always present, ind working too wilh their own hands, would issnre^lly render such new practices profitable. But I apprehend the knowledge of modern mprovements in husbandry is far less extended ban mav commonly be sup|)nscd. That cele- rated 'rravelling Agriculturist, the late Arthur fouas:, a man of science and literature as well 3 a practical firmer, — after visiting different istricts in England, for the purpose of observ- 3g, nnd for the information of his coiuilrymen escribing their various modes of husbandry, ommenced, about the close of the American Far, his Annals of Agriculture. He aftcrnards •avolled over France and parts of Spain and uly w.th the same views. Thus fraught wilh Agricultural Societies, or of well informed indi-ltancc of the urine of cattle as a manure ; and viduals. ^Vith these and a few other books on | he sets about to discover, by a long and well the subject, e^ch township-society would become possessed, at a very small expense, of a pleasing and instructive agricultural library. After considering the constitution of the soil he has to cultivate, the next object of the far- mer will embrace the means of enriching it, and of preserving its fertilitj'. To enrich it, manure will present itself as of the first im[)or- tance ; and of manures, the dung of his live slock will obviously occur as the most essentia conducted scries of experiments, the best meth- od of collecting and applying it. He began by digging a (>it contiguous to the feeding stall, but distinct altogether from that which was appro- priated for the reception of the dung. The di- mensions of this pit, according to his own ac- count, were 36 feet square, and four feet deep, surrounded on all sides by n wall ; and the solid contents were 192 yards. Having selected the nearest spot where he could lind loamy earth, ingredient. If the manure from the droppings ; and this he always took from the surface of of his stock could easily be doubled, how great i some field under cultiva'ion, lie proceeded to would be the farmer's acquisition? That this is j fill it; and found (hat with three men and two practicable I cannot permit myself to doubt. I j horses, he could easily accomplish 20 cubic am rather inclined to think it capable of a man- 1 yards per day ; and the ivhole expense of trans- ifold increase. At another public meeting of porting the earth diuiiications ' introduced. Weeds from road sides and waste cm i>ract;cal farmers, bearing their signature*, ' places would make valuable additions to the ■r it was a general rule with him not to admit I summer manure. By such means manure may ly unless thus vouched; yet, if my recol Ice- 1 be increased in a four, perhaps an eight-fold 1 lie correct, that practical work was so little i dcgr.-^e. nded to by English tarmnrs, that he once I But if in adilition to this accumulated summer ited its sales as not exceeding 50U copies, manure, the fiirmer, without any of the dung or nice then, indeed, improvements have more ! litter of his cattle, could double the quantity -adily been adopted, and agriculture has ad- 1 usually made during the winter, would he not meed with an accelerated pace, and in Scot- 1 consider himself enriched? That this is practi- id with great rapidity. Heading, to obtain i cable will appear from a statement 1 shall now licultural information, has been extended, and recite; it being the result of carei'ul experi- ments made in Scotland during a period of ten ' jcome fashionable ; and book-farming know dge is no longor despised. This knowledge 5 now of greatly increased value, because ex- '■ Jriraents, with a view to improvements, are '■ jot, as formerly, made at random, but on prin- « ^ pies founded in the nature of things, and which • i"st on modern discoveries. years. The fact is stated in one of' a scries of papers written with great ability by Mr. John Voung, under liie signature of Agricola, (alrea- dy referred to) and published at Halifax. The urine of cattle produced this mighty eflect. 1 cannot so well occupy your time as by giving As we have no farmers who Cannot read— -in 1 the statement in his own words, as abridged by •Jer to give to all opportunities of reading. 1 ! him from the Farmers' Magazine, published in ■ania, barns, which arc commonl}' of stone, are often erected hy the side of a hill, bv which means a story is gained for their cattle stalls. By digging where there is a gentle slope, a sufficient excavation for a barn-cellar would be eaS^ily made, to drive in a cart on a level, for carrying in the earth in autumn, and for remov- ing the manure in tho spring. With the in- creased fertility of his soil, the farmer will be able to increase his live stock; and the live .stock, in retiirn, will be constantly adding to the productions of the soil. In respect to Live Stock, it is gratifying to see the spirit excited within the last tive or six years, to attend to their melioration, by pre- serving some of the most promising tor breed- ers, instead of sending them to the shambles ; and by introducing from other countries some individuals already highly improved. New En- s;:land ivas originally granted to mercliants of f'lymouth, in the county of Devon, in England. It is natural to suppose that some of the early settlers sailed from Plymouth, and brought with them the Devon breed of cattle. The uniform red color of various shades, some deep red, and a[>proaching to brown, now so commonly seen among u=, are probably descendants from the Devon race originally imported. Their uniform red color corresponds with a distinguishing mark of the Devon breed, now so highly improved and celebrated in England. Among our own, individuals of this stock might be selected, ad- mittmg, with equal care, of equal improvements, on the principles now so well understood by the eminent English breeders, who, Mr. Arthur Young has said, are indebted for them to the celebrated Robert Bakewell. On the same princ.ples ail our other domestic animals may be improved. And this course appears to me indispensable for the speedy attaimnent of ex- tensive improvements of our stock, of neat cat- tle especially. More than one generation must pass away before highly improved races, from the few imported animals, can be generallv ob- tained. In this important work every substan- tial farmer in the country ought to engage ; and by their rival efforts in every county, the great object might be accomplished. Beauty of form is desirable, and will merit attention : but strength for labor and ample supplies for the dairy, are more important. A disposition to fat- ten at an early age. — a point of excellence zeal- ously sought for in Englaml. where husbandry labors are chiefly performed by horses, is not of material consequence to New England far- mers, where oxen for the drought and cows for the dairy constitute their most interesting slock. But what shall farmers, who live remote from a veal-market, do with tbeirsurpluscalves, above the numbers of the best selected to keep up their stocks, and to sujiply those whose situation may induce them to puicliase, and not breed for themselves ? — I will mention what was some years .since stated to me as the practice of a respectable farmer in Connecticut. He had cows for a large dairy, and cheese-making was his object. He allowed his supernumerary calves to suck their dum three days, (or until the milk was fit for the dairy) artd then killed them ; ta- king off their skins, and giving their flesh to his j store-hogs. This was to me a singular instance 'of practice; but from the good sense of that j farmer, I conclude he must liave experienced it 1 to be not merely a necessary but a saving prac- ; tice. It may be in use among other great dai- j ry farmers, although I do not know that it is. The Trustees have already otfered a pre- mium to encourage the making of Fine Butter. But I am inclined to think it will be difficult, if not impracticable, to make any of the greatest excellence, during summer, without the aid of ice-houses or spring-houses. The city of Phi- ladelphia is admitted, I believe, to be supplied with some butter, during the warm months, su- perior to what is found in other cities of the United States. Yet their pastures are not bet- ter than those in the vicinity of some other ci- ties and towns. I ascribe this superiority ex- clusively to the spring-houses on many of the farms in the neighborhood of Philadelphia. Pennsylvania is a well watered country. There it seems to have been an early practice, in ta- king up land for a farm, to search for a spring; and as near to it as the ground would permit, regardless of its situation in respect to the pub- lic road — to erect the dwelling house. Here the cattle, as well as the family, would at once find good water, without the labor of digging a well. Over these springs small houses are erected usually of stone. The room of the spring- house may be from ten to twenty feet square, acconling to the quantity of milk to be provided for. Trenches are made on the tour sides of the floor, and bottomed and lined with flat stones. The residue of the floor is likewise paved with stones. The water from the spring enters at the side of one trench, runs all round, and at the opposite side passes away at a hole lelt in the wall. The under side of the hole is at such a height above the bottom of the trenches, as to raise the water just enough to keep the milk] cool in the pans which are placed in it. This water runs perpetually from its source, and as constantly passes off at the outlet. In one of the trenches are also set the cream pots, and the pots with the butter the night before it is car- ried to market. Perhaps in the vicinity of Bos- ton and other towns in the State, there may be some springs which may furnish the same ac- commodations. Much has been said and written concerning an evil which pervades our whole country, from one extreme of the Union to another — the gen- eral use of spirituous liquors — prevailing, in the opinion of wise and good men, to a mischievous excess. Sometimes it has been hoped that Ag- ricultural Societies might find means to check the pernicious practice. But the class of farm- er« who abstain from it must be too numerous to become candidates for premiums on temper- ance. Besides, such prudent men need no re- muneration for their abstinence. Here virtue is indeed its own reward. It is said that in France and Spain the labor- ers in husbandry are remarkable for their tem- perance : but they drink small wines insteail of ardent spirits. A French gentleman who for some years was endeavoring to establish vine- yards in the Middle States, particularly in Penn- sylvania, once mentioned to me how cheaply the French peasantry could bo regaled witti wine, purchasing a bottle for a tew pence. At the same time, in answer to my question, he admit ted that such wine was not equal to good Amci ican bottled cider. It has occurred to me tlu nothing might be so likely to check, and in good degree to supercede the general and ex cessive use of ardent spirits, as the universal ic troduction of Good Cider. Were this beverage as well made as easily i might be, it would be alike palatable and whole some ; and in the end might banish spirituou liquors from the houses of the great body of ou citizens. Good cider might be furnished at ha^ the expense of strong malt liquors ; provide apple orchards were more extensively cultivr ted, and the fruits intended for cider properly sr lected. We have a great deal of bad cider, bf cau3' sound and unsound apples are ground tc gither, and no regard is paid to fermcntatior except to give it vent. No one can suppose th juice of rotten apples capable of becoming cide But in whatever degree they are introduced, i the same degree the liquor must be debasei To make the finest cider, sound apples onl should be used. But 1 must not enter into th minute particulars of the process of making an managing cider — it would not comport with th occasion, nor be practicable within the limi to which this discourse must be confined. I w barely suggest a lew things which involve som principles. In every orchard are found a great variety i apples generally used for cider. In New En< land 1 presume these are chiefly wild, that i ungrafted fruit. And 1 have heard the opinio expressed, that such wild fruit would make th best cider. This surely is an error. For a though in a large orchard some good natur fruits may be found, 3 et many of the trees pr duce apples so small as to cost too much labor ; collect them, and others have juices so meagi as when collected to he of little worth. A fe sorts which in England have been celebrate foryielding the finest ciders, were always graf ed with as much attention as apples designe for the table are with us. But in England, th apples which a century ago furnished ciders 1 distinguished excellence, — to use the expressiv words, in like case, of some of our own farme — have run out. They can no longer be contii ued by grafting, This well known fact in th; country, has led an eminent naturalist there I advance the novel doctrine — doubtless as tru as novel — that trees, like animals, have the infancy, youth, maturity and old age. Graf from the last, though inserted in young stock soon perish. Hence the farmers there hav been seeking for fine cider fruits from ne trees growing from the seeds ; and when any < these are found to possess the desired qualitie they are propagated and extended by graf'tin) In some parts of New Jersey, in which c [! (J in b CI li! tl [te 'ill ders of superior excellence are made, the fa' mers produce them wholly by grafting : nor ca we expect fully to rival them, until we adof the same practice. Perhaps there are few extensive natural O) chards in Massachusetts in which valuable cide fruits may not be found, with rich yellow flesl capable of yielding liquors strong and of exce lent flavor. From such trees, if still young, c in vigorous life, whole orchards might soon b I'ormed. And probably different kinds mi.ght b selected which ripen their fruits jit the time NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 221 'iiait Dost (jroper lor makiiiff tlietn into cider. Ap- ^Ker )les until mellow do not attain their highest fla- ' iliiUor ; and till then cannot give the highest fla- •imror to cider. Many reach that mellow-ripe ' ; itate in Octoher and November, which may be ailed the cider-making months in Massachu- (etts. It would require but little attention to select and propagate the best apples thus ripen- ing in succession. Such ciders, made of ripe ,,,|,jand unmixed fruits, would be more easily man- jjjaged ui the most difficult and iinpnr'ant part of ,)„the process of cider-making — its first fermenta- lytion; on the right or wrong conducting of which ; ,y the character of the cider depends. In one case tJit will be soft and pleasant — in the other bard and austere. The Trustees of this Society have. I believe for several years, been offering a liberal pre- mium to encourage the Turning in of Geeen Crops, as a mode of manuring land: but I do not recol- lect that the premium has been claimed. It has been an ancient practice in other countries ; and is not unknown in our own country. Dr. liiJ ElioJ (whom I have already had occasion to m mention) noticed it seventy years ago, in his m Essays on Field Husbandry ; and recommended M millet as a plant well adapted to that purpose. ifi| The seed being but little bigger than cabbage seed, a small quantity will be sufficient for an acre. I have often heard of the turning in of Green Crops being occasionally practiced in Pennsylvania. Many years since, an intelligent man of that State mentioned to me a farmer, who had purchased a farm in a township re- markable for the general poverty of the soil ; and that he improved his own by ploughing in if green crops— buckwheat, oats, rye ; — turning them in repeatedly, until the land produced crops worth harvesting. Sir John Sinclair, in Lis Code of Agriculture, speaks of the practice of ploughing in buckwheat and other crops, when manure was deficient. But he says that in Lincolnshire, buckwheat had for several years been ploughed in as a manure, and ulti- mately given up as doing no good. He then adds — " Unless so far as nourished by the atmos- phere, the vegetables thus treated are supposed merely to restore the nourishment obtained from the soil." And this is the very principle on which the ploughing in of green crops ma- terially depends. The plants while growing derive a portion of their food from the air ; and being turned in, so far at least add manure to the soil. But this is not all the benefit : weeds spring up with the sown green crops, and are sown in with them ; thus increasing the manure, and at the same time cleaning the ground tor a harvest crop. But besides the growing plants, the soil itself, under their shade, made light by the ploughing and harrowing, is also receiving a portion of the same fertilizing airs. Lord Kames, however, in his Gentleman Farmer, says — " I approve not of ploughing down buck- wheat, red clover, or any other crop, Ibr ma- nure. The best way of converting a crop into manure is, to pass it through the body of an ani- mal. The dung and urine,not to mention the profit of feeding, will enrich the ground more than to plough down the crop." Notw.thstanding these authorities — and the opinion of Lord Kames is entitled to very great respect — I am inclined to think that the circumstances nn I coii.lili. n of many farms may be sueb as to render the practice eligible ; particularly when manure is deficient ; — and where is it not deficient ? Is it not a received fact, when lands have been impoverished by cropping without manuring, that by letting them lie a few years at >ts/, they acquire such a degree of fertility as to bear, a crop of some sort that rewards the farmer's toil ? ll this happen to unseeded land, thrown out as waste, how much sooner may it be recovered when sown with buckwheat, oats, rye or millet, and the crops when in full blossom ploughed in ? If this product be small, let the land be again sown, and a second crop be ploughed in. And if a third sowing and ploughing in were given, what would be the whole expense ? A trifle compared with a dressing with stable or barn yard manure — if it could be procured. This is to be carted to the field and spread, in order to be ploughed in : but the green crop is on the ground, and evenly spread, ready for the opera- tion of the plough. But leaving all theoretical reasoning, I will recur to well authenticated facts. The late distinguished agricultural writer, Arthur Young, Secretary to the English Board of Agriculture, so lately as the year 1811, de- livered before that body an interesting lecture, to describe the husbandry and speak the praises of three celebrated British Farmers. One of these was Mr. Ducket, who occupied in succes- sion, two " sand farms ;" that is, farms in whose soil sand was predominant. It was one of the practices of this very ingenious farmer, to plough in green crops to enrich his land. And to do it effectually, he contrived a plough with which, when drawn by four horses, he could open his furrows to the depth of eight or ten inches, and in them perfectly bury his green crops. The opening ot so deep a furrow was called Treiich-plovghing ; and by the simple ad- dition of an arm partly curved, and fixed on the right side of the coulter, at the desired height of eight or ten inches above the sole or bottom of the share, the growing crop was pressed to the ground ; and the furrow-slice raised by the plough, following close behind and turned com- pletely over, perfectly buried the crop and weeds. This coulter of Ducket's trench plough, with the curved arm attached to it, is called a skim-couUer. The arm must necessarily extend so far to the right as the breadth of the furrow ; and just at that extreme, I conceive, the curve downward begins, so as, when the growing crop is pressed flat, the stems or straws may not spread out any further; and being thus confin- ed, are completely overwhelmed. Hence there would be no vegetation in the seams of the fur- rows. " By means of this tool (says Mr. Young) I have repeatedly seen on his farm, stubbles completely turned down, and crops of turnips, tares and other plants instantly put in ; which crops I have afterwards viewed with equal plea- sure and surprise ; the execution was as com- plete as the design was sagacious : but it went further — converting the nuisance of any weeds into manure. So efi'ective was the work of the plough, that I once saw him turn down a crop of rye six feet high, and immediately roll in turnip seed. The efiect did not depend so much on an extraordinary depth of ploughing, as on the subversion of the soil ; for of the rye I have just alluded to, not an aiora was left vis- ible ; and yet the depth did not exceed eight inches But if there be Cuucii [twitch grass] in the soil, this ploughing is ten inches deep ; and the succeeding crop in any case well hand- hocd. This trench-ploughing system is not practiced above once in two or three years, and the successive tillage shallow, upon the surface. By such deep ploughing, seldom given, Mr. Ducket conceived that a due degree of mois- ture was preserved in his light land ; by means of which his crops were flourishing in seasons of drought which destroyed those of his neigh- bors." Here perhaps the question will occur — were Mr. Ducket's improvements adopted by other farmers? Mr. Young says they were, by some of his enlightened brethren. Why thev were not generally imitated, Mr. Young ascribes (I repeat his words) to " the perversity which characterizes the ignorance of English farmers." Again he says, " If our farmers would have adopted the practices really excellent, as soon as they were known, British agriculture would forty years ago have arrived at its present state ; and at this time the kingdom would have been a garden." In connexion with this account of Mr. Duck- et's practice, I take leave to suggest the ne- cessity, or at least the great utility, of an oc- casional fallowing; primarily, in order to de- stroy the weeds which infest so many fields, and essentially injure all crops of small grain, especially spring wheat, which ripening more slowly than rye and barley, is much more op- pressed by the weeds. In eflecting the object here suggested, and to enrich the soil while making a fallow, I would recommend the fol- lowing mode of practice. As soon as it can be done in the spring, plough, sow and harrow in the seed of the crop intended to be turned in. Weeds will spring and grow with the crop. — When the latter is in full blossom, turn it in. Immediately sow for a second crop. With this also will arise another crop of weeds; and both, as before, are to be turned in. Should the sea- son permit, and the foulness of the ground re- quire it, sow for a third crop, to be ploughed in, like the former, before winter. A field thus managed will be in good order for a crop of barley, summer wheat, rye or oats, in the ensu- ing spring; and of either a comparatively clea« crop may be expected. This dressing with green crops, valuable as I conceive it to be, need not be confined to sand farms ; it will be not less beneficial in all light gravelly loams, which I suppose rather to abound in Massachusetts ; certainly, stiff, clayey loams are not common. A feif concise remarks on the general princi- ple, and on some of the objects of these annual exhibitions, will conclude this address. It is supposed, and justly, that these public shovvs, by exciting an emulation among farmers, will lead to important improvements in our hus- bandry. The general question which the case presents, is. What will be the easiest, cheapest, and most effectual means to accomplish this great object ? A principal one has been to grant premiums for the greatest crops of specified plants on given quantities of land. One pleas- ing result has appeared — that by ample manur- ing and good culture, the usual crops of the same plants may be doubled and trebled. But is it necessary to continue premiums of this kind? May not now the management of farms rather claim attentioD ? Instead of xiumerous small pr*- 222 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. miums dispersed on a variety of objects, mififht they not be ailvan'ageonsly concentrated lor tlie purpose lierc intimated — the cleanest, most eco- nomical, the most productive manajjcm ?nt of farms? Fur it must be such a general improve- ment of the entire farm that will constimtr. the farmer^s permanent prosperity. The decision of claims on this ground cannot be expected to be made by a committee of this Society to travel through the whole State : but will it not be practicable by county committees'? Perhaps it may not be diflinult for the Trustee; of the Slate Society to prescribe some general prin- ciples and rules of proceeding, that may pro- duce uniformity in the reports of county com- mittees acting under their direction. In ploughing, the just aim must be to make straiglit furrows, and of a uniform breadth and depth ; and so turn over the furrou-slice as completely to cover whatever plants or manure are upon it. All this cannot be effected with a hurried step. And what benefit can possibly result from such a step ? A farmer's oxen at the plough must labor a great part of the day properly to turn over an acre. To do this without a driver, will require a skilful plough- man and well trained oxen. To encourage the forming of such ploughmen and oxen, should, I conceive, be the sole object of ploughing match- es. Working-oxen at the plough, may be con- sidered as well traincil when they obey the voice of the jtloughman, keep the track in which they ought to move, and step as ijuick as will be compatible with the necessary continu- ance of their labor. And as the annual exhibi- tions at this place have demonstrated the ['racti- cabilily of performing the o-tHfj-u/ operations of the plough with one yoke of oxen, without a driver, it may merit consideration whether pre- miums should not be thus limited in all future trials with the plough. Under such limitation'^, every farmer who is ambitious to exhltjit prof)ls of superiority in these points, would be sensible that his oxen must attain a certain size, and be. though not fat, yet well fleshed ; which would ffivcstren2:th to their sinews and momentum to their exertions. With such oxen all our agri- cultural labors would be so well performed, that there would be no room to envy the con- dition of farmers in any of our sister States; in some of w hich, their horses consume perhaps as much grain as would furnish bread to all the inhabitants of New-England. for the new engi.a.nd farmer. Mr. Fesseniien, The improvements in agriculture which have recently' and generally been adopted in our coun- try, while they evince the intelligence and en- terprise of the I'armer, have given him pre-em- inence among the benefactors of the common- wealth. He has acquired the skill of improvnig his soil, and possessed himself of the best imple- ments for its cultivation. He is judicious in his rotation of crops, best adapted to the soil \n ref- erence to the succession. He prci)arcs his seed in the best manner, and sows it ;it the season most favorable to vegetation, and with a liber- ality which promises the greatest abimdancc. Thus tar is well, and gives a fair indication that the details of liis whole system are iii unison. Still I am apprehensive that most fanners are too inattentive to the must essential requisite in good husbandry — 1 mean in the selection of their seed, generally, but particularly to the purity of the kind sown, broadcast, upon their best pre- pared Soil. One error, here, may mar our whole system, and render our skill productive oi as much evil as good. On poor and worn out land, the evil of sowing a mixture of impure seed, with grain or grass seed, would ba great — but where the ground is in high order, the crop is more injured ; the noxious plants take lirmor hold, and are more difficult to be eradicated. I have known farms, otherwise ^vell cultivat- ed and productive, incalculably diminished in their value from neglect in this precaution. 1 have seen fields of grain in such lull blossom with wild turnips, as to appear the standard crop. I have seen others so choked and entan- gled as to render it doubtl'ul whether the cul- ture of rije or tares was intended. I have further seen extensive enclosures of luxuriant grain overtopped by the gaudy and luxuriant Canada thistle, or more stately dock. I have no objection to the owners of these farms regaling themselves and their cattle with this nauseous mixture, if it best suits their taste — but I protest against their vending it to oth- ers for food — more especially for seed. In the latter case, they do an act, worse than most things which are considered frauds in other transactions. To sell me a diseased animal, as sound, would be a small injury compared with the selling me a bushel of oats with the mixture of an ounce of tares or wild turnip seed. The animal might die, and I should lose only my money, and some expense in endeavoring to save him; but my farm has received a malady of which it cannot be cured for years, nor ever, without much expense of time and labor. These sentimeuts, in the abstract, will appear pertinent to every judicious farmer — but I fear (here are many, like myself, whose reflections have been called to the subject by experience. Making it my rule that nothing should be suf- fered to grow which injured the crop, my vex- ation was extreme when in two instances the grain which 1 had purchased for seed commu- nicated a profusion of wild turnip to mv ground. By great care and diligence through the sum- mer, I in both instances succeeded in prevent- ing a further spreading — but the time spent, and the injury to my grain in eradicating il. made a deduction of nearly half the value of the crop, besides a further trouble from the seed which was brought to vegetate in succeed- ing years. In the s|)ring of 1821 I laid a tJeld down to grass with rye. Learning that a farmer in town had raised a rare and valuable kind, I purchased, at an enhanced price, a supply for sowing. The grain appeared well ; but so be- set will) tares that it was useless to attemp* to pull them out. After harvesting I dug up ivhat roots 1 could find, and secured many of the un- shelled pods. Instead of mowing the grass the present season, as I intended, I turned in mv cows to prevent the further seeding of this baneful plant, in this case the damage was not only great, but what is worse, there is no cal- culating its duration. There was culpable error, I admit, in sowing any gritin without carefully examining it. Tiii^ negligence is too common. The only pall'at.'on in my case, was, that I purchased it of pers(i:i.. who pass for good farmers. Dut the security ol' having good seed ought uot to depend ujiou the inspection of the buyer. If he is vigilant himself, he ma) often be und.-.- the nece-sity ' entrusting his business to others who are u^ faithful. The seller, if he raises the seed lnt of a bottle of his Currant V\'ine, or " Columbian froiselle." Mr. Kenrick states that this wine is sold y the keg at $1,08, and by the barrel at $1, per gall. ;d at $5 per dozen, white at $6,50. We do not pro- is any connoisseurship with regard to wine, and can ily say that the sample sent us was very agreeable, ot only to our palate, but to the palates of some iends, whom we employed as tasters on the occasion, 'c therefore cTieerfully recommend it as a pleasant, ilatable, and we doubt not wholesome beverage. Mr. Keurick further remarks, that, " the facts col- cted by Col, Pickering, in regard to the best time for Uing Timber, ! consider of very great importance. r. Cooper told him that white oak, as well as hicko- felled in barking time, would not be bored by orms. I wish that some of your correspondents, who ^e nigh the salt water, wotiM undertake to make ex- rimeuts on yellow and white pines, hickory, chcs- :t, and every sort of oak used in shipping. Samples ould be felled and sunk in water now ; and similar mples should be felled in barking time, and placed side them. If 1 am not mistaken, nearly all the sts in West Boston bridge were soon ruined so com- !te!y by worms, as to require replacing. 1 believe ;y were originally white pine. ■' I am about entering on a course of experiments to :ertain the cause, in a satisfactory manner, why tht rms, both on dry land, and under water, prey upon iory and other wood felled in the winter season, t not when felled in barking time. If I succeed 1 I give you the result ; and if you have a trusty ■nd that will make the experiment under water, we .11 be able to give the public information of the high- importance to every section of our country." The Editor would be greatly obliged to any friend 0 would make the experiment suggested hy Mr. nrick, and would give his personal assistance so far his indispensable avocations would permit. FARMER SUMMARY OF NEWS. IJONGRESS appears to be pretty diligent in ways of 11 doing, and will make, it is hoped, a good job of :ir legislative proceedings ihe present session. The it Office committee, on motion of Mr. Holmes, has ;d instructed to report on the expediency of trans- iting the principal Eastern mail in steam boats. — eytppear to be instituting a jA.oir/) /oo/t out relative uioncv matters, and do not intend that that the ^arb latriotism shall be us -d as a cloak for peculation. eyhavc, likewise, a bill on the carpet to provide for admission of persons as revolutionary pensioners, osc applications have bten rejected in consequence he largeness of their property, but have since become >T. T'litir business, however, chiefly consists of de- ls of important but not general interest. MASSACHUSETTS LEGISLATURE will, we be- 'e, close its session on Tuesday next. The bill itive to Ltiprisonment for Debt has been negatived, e bill concerning the Boston House of Industry, has ■n completed. A bill ha; passed to regulate the ,fo- at large of sheep, rams and he ernats at certain sea- s of the year. A bill further to regulate the practice hysic and Surgery has passed to be enacted. The imposing a duty on auction sales has passed. The respecting religious freedom has been postponed in- imtely. A bill passed to be enacted, authorising racers of the poor to act as guardians. roilElG.N'. — The latest news from Havre conies down to the 15th December. The appearance of the political horizon in Europe is less ominous of war than at the preceding accounts. Spain, it is said, is to bo left to her own management, and France has ordered her troops, destined for that country, to rest upon their arms for the present. The Constitutionalists in Spain continue to be successful. The Greeks are likewise Iriiunphant. Chourschid Pacha had a fresh d( feat on the 'Ud, 23d and 24th of October— had lost 70U men, and retreated to Larissa. DOMESTIC— According to a statistical tabl(>, the distance between Washington City, and the new Colo- ny contemplated at the mouth of Columbia river, is almost the distance between Washington and London. Mrs. Rebecca Long, of Concord, N. H. and one of her daughters, were, not long since, poisoned by some white lead having been accidentally mixed in a quan- tity of sugar. Their sulTerings were prolonged and very excruciating. [An English medical writer, whose name is not now recollected, states, that " when min- eral poisons, technically called oxides, are taken inter- nally, one table spoonful of powdered charcoal is a conii)lete antidote, mixed with either honey, butter or treacle, taken immediately ; within two hours admin- ister either an emetic or cathartic ; in this way the ef- fect of the poison is prevented." We do not, however, presume to vouch for the ffficacy of this remedy, but submit it for th-^ consideration of medical men.] The Albany Daily Advertiser of the 2Sth ult. states that the Albany stage was overturned in the Highlands on Friday, and one of the passengers, a gentleman from Vermont, had his collar bone broken, and several others were more or less injured. The accident was caused by the driver's attempting to pass an opposition line. Lar':f. Hogs. — William Yale, Esq. of Meriden, Con. fatted and killed on the 6th .Ian. five hogs, weight as follows : 462, 476, 484, 4f!6, 542— in all 2450. Firkins of butter have been sold at Montreal, which, after penetrating two inches below the surface wen found to contain a mixture, fit only for the soap boiler. A gang of counterfeiters of Spanish milled dollars ha? been discovered in Lower Canada, in the neia:h- borhood of Montreal, and two of them apprehended. The dollars, it is said, were extremely well imitated. A gang of robbers, which had carried on its depreda- tions for some time in the nci;;;-hborbood of INIontreal has likewise been detected and committed to prison. Ftres. — A new grist mill with two run of stones, be- longing to Mr. Robert T. Shaw, of Lansing, N. Y. was destroyed by fire on the 9th ult. in consequence of the carelessness of the miller. — The Congregational Church in the village of Great Barrington, (.Mass.) was discov- ered to be on fire on the 13th ult. The fire had ob- tained a formidable ascendancy, when the building, and probably the whole village was preserved from destruction by the intrepidity of Mr. Gilbert Ford, who mounted the roof at the hazard of his life, and poured water on the spot where the flames issued most copi- ously. The fire is supposed to have been communi- cated from a small wooden box, containing ashes, into which some of the female part of (he congregation had probably emptied the contents of their stove-pans the day previous. — On the 20th ult. a barn, containing 200 bushels of wheat, a quantity of oats, and hay sufl^- cient to winter a large stock of cattle, was consumed in Addison county, Vermont. The fire was communi- cated by Sylvester Hanks, son of the sutTerer, who, having deliberately set fire to the building, was the first to give information. He was asrested and sent to Midrilebury jail. — A grist mill belonging to Gen. Ste- phen Van Ransellaer, at Albany, was lately consumed by fire. Damages estimated at' $25,000. — On Friday, of last week, several Valuable stores, in Norfolk, Va. were destroyed by fire, and a Mr. Talbot, in whose store the fire originated, perished in the flames, and several other persons were seriously injured. The following appointments have been made by the President, and confirmed by the Senate, viz : General .lackson. minister to Mexico ; Cwsar .A. Rodney, min- ister to Buenos Ayres ; Richard C. Anderson, minister to Colombia ; and Heman Allf n, minister to Chili. A young married lady was late ly killed in Westmore- land County, Va. while riding in a gi?, by the falling: of a tree upon the carriage. Two of her children and a servant maid were in the gig, and were providential- ly unhurt. DIF.D — In Cambridgeport, on Wednesday evening last, SriU'HK.v I'YNciro.v, Esq. Repres( ntative in the Legislature of this State, from Erimfleld. In Albany, Moses 1. Cantinc, Esq. senior editor of the Argus. • In New York, Mr. .Toseph Tyler, aged 73, the oldest member of the Dramatic Corps in (he U. States. FOR sale at the Agricultural Establishment, No. 20, Merchant's Row, a general assortment of the most APPROVED FARMING TOOLS— viz. Harrison's Corn Shellers ; Straw Cutters ; double and single mould board Ploughs, of various kinds — Pee!- son's Cultivators — Bennett's Broad Cast Machine for small seed ; extra cast steel broad and narrow Hoes — Foster's best English Shovels — Ames' back strapp'd do. Cam's English cast steel warranted Scythes and Hay Knives ; Bruslx Scythes — Stevens' Patent steel spring Hay and Manure Forks — Brown's Vertical Wool Spin- ner, itc. Sec. Boston, Jan. 25. PRICES OF COUNTRY PRODUCE, &c. [Revised and corrected every Friday.] ASHES, pot, 1st qua! pearl do BEANS, white, BEEF, mess, 200 cwt. cargo. No. No, BUTTER, inspect. 1st qiial. 2d qual. small kegs, family, CHEESE, new milk TLAX FLAX SEED FLOUR, Baltimore, Euperline, Genessee .... Rye, best .... GRAIN, Rye Corn Barley Oats HOGS' LARD, 1st sort . . HOPS, No. 1, LIME, OIL, Linseed, American . . PLAISTER PARIS .... PORK, Navy Mess .... Bone Middlings , Cargo, No. 1, . . . Cargo, No. 2, . . . SEEDS, Herd's Grass . . • Clover WOOL, Merino, full bIood,washed do. do. unwashed do. 3-4 do. do. 1-2 do. Native .... do. Pulled, Lamb's, 1st sort do. Spinning, 1st sort PROVISIoy M.iRKET. BEEF, best pieces .... PORK, fresh VEAL, .MUTTON POULTRY BUTTER, keg & tub ... lump, best EGG.S, MEAL, Rye, fndian, POTATOES, CIDER, liquor, HAY, best FRO.M TO 1). C D. C. ton. 143 00 145 00 153 Of 155 00 bush 90 1 00 hl.l. 9 00 9 50 8 0( if 60 G 50 7 00 lb. 14 15 12 13 16 17 7 f 9 9 bus! 1 00 1 10 bbl. 7 25 7 50 7 50 4 25 4 50 busl 85 90 79 75 6(J 65 45 48 lb. 9 10 11 12 cask 1 25 1 50 gal. 65 70 (on. 3 0(1 3 50 bbl. 12 00 12 50 14 50 15 00 12 00 12 50 11 00 11 50 hush 2 00 2 25 lb. S 9 65 75 6(. 65 50 54 46 48 37 40 5!. €0 50 lb. f 10 5 6 ' 8 7 7 9 16 17 20 23 doz. 2- 25 bush bbl. !'(' J' 1 50 Ion. 22 00 24 00 224 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. T%e weariiotrrness of what is commonly called a Life of Pleasure. The spleen is seldom felt where Flora reijns ; The lowring eye, the petulance, the frown, And sullen sadness, that o'ershade, distort. And mar the face of beauty, when no cause For such immeasurable woe appears ; These Flora banishes, and gives the fair Sweet smiles and bloom, less transient than her own. It is the constant revolution, stale And tasteless, of the same repeated joys, That palls and satiate?, and makes languid life A pedlar's pack, that bows the bearer down. Health suffers, and the spirits ebb ; the heart Recoils from its own choice — at the full feast Is famish'd — finds no music in the song. No smartness in the jest, and wonders why. Yet thousands still desire to journey on. Though halt and weary of the path they tread. The paralytic, who can hold her cards. But cannot play them, borrowi a friend's hand To deal and shuffle, to divide and sort Her mingled suits and sequences, and sits Spectatress both and spectacle, a sad And silent cypher, while her proxy plays. Others are dragg'd into the crowded room -. Between supporters ; and, once seated, sit. Through downright inability to rise, Till the stout bearers lift the corpse again. These speak a loud memento. Yet even these Themselves love life, and cling to it ; as he That overhangs a torrent, to a twig. They love it, and yet loath it ; fear to die. Yet scorn the purposes for which they live. Then wherefore not renounce them .' No— the dread, The slavish dread of solitude, that breeds Reflection and rcmose, the fear of shame, And their Invet'rate habit? — all forbid. Whom call we gay ? Tliat honor has been long The boast of mere pretenders to the name. The innocent are gay — the lark is gay, That dries his feathers, saturate with dew, Beneath the rosy cloud, while yet the beams Of day-spring overshoot his humble nest. The peasant too, a witness of his song. Himself a songster, is a? gay as he. But save me from the gaiety of those Whose head-achs nail them to a noon-day bed ; And save me loo from theirs whose haggard eyes Flash desperation, and betray their pangs For property stripp'd off by cruel chance ; From gaiety that fills the bones with pain. The mouth with blasphemy, the heart with woe. COWPER. ly engaged in the ordinary dealings of the com- munity. Such productions ous C1IIARLES EWER, No. 51, Cornhill, Boston, u ./ just published, " An Essay on the Law of Pal U /'or New Inventions. By Thomas G. Fessenden, Ci stllor at Law. The second edition, with large a lions, corrected and improved by the author." This work is adapted as well to the use of the A and Mechanic as of the Lawyer. The whole was c fully reviewed in manuscript, and recommended Smtlemen of the first legal talents in New Englani I'hi- Hon. Judge 57orj/, in a letter to the author, served, " 1 have no hesitation in expressing my c ion that the book will be highly useful to all pers wlio are engaged in obtaining patents, or in vindica thi-ra in Courts of Justice. The manuscript contai collection of all the cases, on the subject of Pati within my knowledge ; and the principles containe them are detailed with accuracy and fulness in Summary at the conclusion. I know of no wor comprehensive as yours on the subject ; and it ma relied on as a safe guide." The Hon. William Prescotf, and the Hon. Di Webster, after perusing the manuscript stated 1 opinion as follows : " This edition is a great impr ment on the first, and we think it will be a valu and useful book to the profession, as it contains statutes, and states, we believe accurately, all, orr ly all the decisions, which have been made on a br: of law, daily growing more interesting and importa Geome 6'!(/?jinn, Esq. agentleman who has paid n attention to this branch of law, has likewise fav the work with a recommendation, from which tlie lowing is an extract : " Your method of arranging all the decisions in order of an analytical digest of the several requirem and provisions of our statutes for granting patents, the lawyer at once in possession of the judicial struction of the statutes ; while your synthetic Snir ry, far more extended and comprehensive than iK former edition, places within reach of the mechat sure means of judging whether his invention is subject for a patent ; what is required of him by statute In order to obtain his patent ; and what pri ions are enacted for securing to himself and heirs, meritorious privib ge." Feb. THOMAS W. SHEPARD, RESPECTFULLY informs his friends and thepv that he executes all kinds of BOOK AND FINE JOB PRINTING, in the most fasliionable manner, and on reason terms, at the Offirr of the New F\c.'.ANn Faru; ROOERS' BUILUJNG CONGRESS-ST. NEW ENGLAND FARMEli. IjJ'ublished every Saturday, by THOMAS W. SHEPARD, Rogers' Buildiag;, Congress Street, Boston- |,J J Vol. I. ^t i2.50 per aim. in advance, or $:J,0(J at the close of the yeru BOSTON, SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 1823. No. 29. »lii( DISEASES OF CATTLE. NiELECTED AND COMPILED FROM THE BEST AVTHORS, V B . BV THE EDITOR. M[ — Foul in the Foot, or Hoof AH. Dr. Peck, an English writer, has given the following account of this disorder and its treat- e»inent. " Symptoms. — A hard crack first appears be- tween the claws, or hoofs, attended with con- siderable inflammation ; afterwards a foetid and offensive matter is discharged, similar to that of the grease in horse's heels ; sometimes it ap- pears in the form of a large tumor upon the cornet, between the hair and the hoof, attend- ed with violent pain and inflammation. " Treatment. — Wash the part from all dirt, and if between the claws lake a rope of a pro- per thickness, and chafe the part alilicted,* and afterwards dress the parts with the muriate of antimony [butter of antimony] or sulphuric acid -j [oil of vitriol.] Let the animal stand in a dry place for an hour, repeat the application every day. If the part be much affected, rub it with some stimulating ointment, and if the tumor be likely to suppurate, linseed poultices as oft as is necessary should be applied, and repeated fill the inflammation has subsided ; then dress the wound with lint and mild astringent ointment. Due regard must be paid to existing symptoms. A lew doses of sodas sulphas [glauber's salt] will cool the body and accelerate the cure." Edward Skellett, Professor of the Vtterinary art, an English writer of reputation, says that this disorder " proceeds from two causes ; the one from accidents, and the other from a mo.'- bid state of the system. Its situation is Utrnxt the claws of the cow, either in the fore or bind feet, but more frequently in the form:;r. It is always attended with a swelling, the discharge from which, when it breaks or clacks, has a very offensive smell. The accidental foul proceed^ from gravel. Hints, bones, or any other ha-d substance get- ting between the claws, whiih produces great pain and inflammation. Tie first step to be taken for its cure is to remove the hard sub- stance, and clean the wcund out ; then the fol- lowing ointment is to te applied to the part, Spread on tow, and bound on with cloth and string. (' Soft soap 1 lb. Common turpentine 1 lb. " Melt over a slow fire till the two articles are completely united. The dressings may be repeated two or three times, which never fails to complete a cure. "The joint foul begins with great pain, at- tended with inflammation and swelling betwixt the claws, and even up to the fetlock joint. The claws are extended outwards from the ■ swelling betwixt them, and the animal is very feverish. The attack of the disease is very ' sudden. i " In this case bleeding will be proper; after I which, give a dose of EpMf(rsalts; then apply *This practice is coadcmued by other writers as cru»l. ^j»d tmaecessary. a plaister of soft soap betwixt the claws If must be repeated every two days till a large core come out, which is always the case in this disease before a cure can be completed. The wound may then be dressed with the following digestive ointment, in order to heal it. Take of tar 1 lb. Common turpentine 1 lb. " To be put into a pipkin over a slow fire till it is completely dissolved, then take it from the fire and add to it four ounces of spirits of turpentine, which should be stirred well togeth- er till it is incorporated." This disorder, or something very similar, has been prevalent in the United States, and par- ticularly in the State of Maine. A communica- tion on the subject is published in the Massa- chusetts Agricultural Repository, Vol. iv. No. 4, page 348. In this it is said that the immediate occasion of the Hoof Ail " is a stoppage of the issue between the claws or hoofs, which exist in all ruminating animals, and which are very much like the issues so generally known in the back part of the fore legs of pigs ; the stoppage of which produces disease, and eventually death unless remedied. " The hoof ail indiscriminately attacks thin and fat cattle, and very considerable impressions are entertained that it is contagious ; therefore till the contrary is proved, it is safer so to con- sider it. From a very careful comparison of cases (from memory only) it appears to sfl'ect cattle who are in a feverish state, from various exciting causes ; as over work ; sudden changes from hard work to rest, and higher feeding, (a practice very common with farmers after work- ing their cattle hard all winter, as a preparation lor their spring's work ;) being out in a storm ; or being driven much, and kept long in the mud. In cows and young cattle, it seems to take either those that are brought from worse keeping to better ; or the finest and best cattle in the yard. But all these observations may be erroneous ; for tlie disease often appears sud denly, without any apparent cause ; affecting individuals of the same stock tied in different parts of the barn, and in entirely different case.'- as to condition, exposure, &,c. &,c. It however, very frequently goes through a whole stock, though it does not appear to follow in regular succession, according to proximity in the stable, or in the yoke. Tliis may arise, either from contagion or the same exciting causes, operat- ing on the whole. In short, it is a disease very terrible in its effects at times, and which does not appear to be understood. As very few cases of perfect recovery take place in a violent at- tack, and, as in all cases the recovery is very tedious, we should rather prevent than cure ; for which end we niu.^t carefully watch for the symptoms, and without delay apply the reme- dies. " Symptom.'. — When an animal is at all lame, its foot should be very carefully felt. The first indication is usually an uncommon degree ol warmth, and soft and puffed feel of the parts immediately connected with the slit between the hoof, either before or behind the foot, and 'generally above it. If in the hind foot, and not easily handled, a fulness may generally bo per- ceived, by standing behind the animal and care fuljj' comparing the appearance of the two feel, between the dew claws and the hoofs, (for ii very rarely commences its attack on more than one foot.) In the fore foot it generally swells forward ; and on taking up the foot, the slit between the hoofs will have the appearance of dryness, easily distinguishable to a person used to cattle ; and the animal frequently licks the front part of the foot. Instances frequently oc- cur of sudden and extreme lameness, without any appearance of heat or swelHng in the foot ; and these arc often the worst cases ; but one symptom rarely fails to accompany the disease, which is, extreme restlessness, and appearance of anguish, attended with loss of appetite and flesh ; but without, in the least, affecting the brightness of the eye, and, perhaps, sometimes unnaturally increasing it ; but the eye has a peculiar cast. As a general rule, it is safest ta attribute all lameness of the foot, which cannot be traced to a sufficient cause, to the hoof ail. Lameness of the foot can generally be distin- guished from that of the leg, hip, or shoulder, by making the animal step over a stick or rail, and carefully watching its motions. " Remedieg. — The foot should be carefully washed and cleansed, and thoroughly examined, to be sure that the lameness does not arise^from a nail casually run into the foot, or a pinch in shoeing, or from a wound from a stump or other substance between the hoofs, (a case frequently occurring.) If no appearance occurs of any lireak in the skin, while the foot is still wet, apply, as nearly .as may be, to the centre of the slit, bptwer'n the hoofs, from one to throe grains of corrosive sublimate (reduced to a tine pow- der) the dose to be proportioned to the size of the animal, and the violence of the attack. — Care must be used that the powder is put com- pletely into this slit, for it is a very strong poi- son, and the animal, as soon as at liberty, will begin to lick the foot, if a sore one.* The moisture left by the washing, makes the pow- der adhere ; and the effect is produced in a very short time. Some prefer mixing the pow- der with hog's lard, which answers ; hat is thought less powerful : it has one advantage, however, as being less dangerous to keep in a house (for no one takes salve inwardly.) Where corrosive sublimate cannot be obtained, any other violent stimulant may be applied. Com- mon salt is often effectual in very slight attacks, but it is of the greatest importance to lose no time. The application is to be repeated once every twenty-four hours, till a cure is effected, or till the foot shows unequivocal signs of a gathering which will break. It is supposed that the corrosive sublimate, by stimulating the parts, removes the obstruction, and enables na- ture to resume the natural discharge from the issue, of a matter, which (as soon as pent up in the foot) causes inflammation and suppuration, and at last, forms an abscess, at all times very diflicult to heal, and which, when large, takes * Might not a rag or bit of leather be so fastened with a strios as to prevent eny danger cf this sort ' 226 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. ^s ^ one or both hoofs, -j^liirli are never properly re- placed. It must, therefore, be considered as an object of the lirst importance to restore tlic se- cretion and discharge, without allowing a sup- puration. Tiiis done, tlie cure i^ cll'octed ; and, since the course has been followed, no bad case has occurred in a very considerable slock of cat- tle, and the men attending thenri are quite famil- iar with the cure. If, from want of attention, or the violence of the attack, the gathering is formed, and breaks, it must be treated like any other tedious ulcer, and without any violent or harsh measures. The animal should be kept quiet, fed well, and occasionally purged. As soon as the discharge has ceased, a salve of flower of zinc, and hog's lard appears to be the best dressing. " It cannot be too strongly impre'^sed on the minds of those who have the care of cattle that not a moment is to be lost; and that the corro- sive sublimate produces no other inconvenience than pain for a few minutes, even if it should be applied in a case of lameness, which afterwards proves to have arisen from other cause?. " An account appeared last season, of the cure being effected by cutting otT the point of the hoof witti a chissel, till it bled considerably. Of the efficacy of this remedy, no opinion is given, as it has never been tried here ; but the impression is not favorable, as it must occasion temporary lameness, and, in unskilful hands, prove something more than temporarv. " All such barbarous modes of treatment as hair ropes drawn backwards and forwards be- tween the hoots ; hot irons; cutting out the part affected, and pouring into the wound, so made, hot pilch and other ingredients ; scraping out the wound, and applying spirits of turpentine ; in short all remedies of torture, should be at once discarded, and a simple mode of ascertain- ing the cause, and then removing the evil in the most e.xpeditious and humane maoner be substituted. " No inconvenience is known to occar from keeping an ox at irork, if the lameness is not so great as to impair his condition ; and it gen- erally yields to three or tour applications in the foot where it began ; but frequently it must be followed round all the feet in succession." We have been the more particular in our description of this disorder, and the remedies recommended, on account of its alleged fre- quency in the United States. If the simple and cheap remedies recommended by Dr. Skellett, Tiz. soft soap, (omnion turi>entine, tar, and spiriis oi turpentine will answer the purpose, attribu- ted to them by that writer, the discovery will be highly valuable. From Sinclaii's Code of AgricuUiire. On ihc making of Watering Ponds. Various modes of making ponds have been adopted, with a view of simplifying the process, and lessening the expense ; but the unproved ■practice, which, if followed, will be found to an- swer in almost any situation, in any country, is as follows : Let a circle be marked on the ground sixty feet in diameter, more or less, as the person chooses, or the size of the pasture may require a supply of water, and if of thut diameter, let it be hollowed out into the shape of a bason or bowl, to the depth of seven teet in the centre ; '^hen the surface of this hollow has been raked smooth, let it be well beaten over, so as to re- duce it into as even, uniform, and (irm a sur- face as the nature of the ground will admit ot : on this, well fallen, skreened lime, must be uni- formly s|)read, with a riddle, to the thickness of two or three inches ; the more porous or open the ground, the greater will be the quantity of I. me required ; this lime must then be slightly watered, to make it adhere firmly to its place, and great care must be taken, to spread it equal- ly, so that no place may remain uncovered, as on the lime, depends more than any thing else, the success of the work. On this lime must be laid a bed of clay, to the thickness of about six inches, which being moistened sufficiently to render it ductile, is to be beaten with mallets or beetles into a compact solid body, capable of being trod upon without impression or injury. Great care is to be taken in laying on uniformly this mass of clay, and beating it into a compact body ; for which purpose, no more must be spread at a time upon the lime, than can under- go the beating, while it retains a proper temper or consistence for the purpose : after the whole is thus finisheil, it is gone over several times by the beaters, and sprinkled each time with wa- ter, and care is taken, to prevent any cracks being formed, which might entirely destroy the power of retention. Pure brick-clay is not required, but any tena- cious earth, that by beating will become a solid compact body, will answer the purpose. As soon as this operation has been duly performed, the whole surface of the clay is covered, to about the thickness of a foot, with broken chalk, tine gravel, or the chippings of mouldering stone, or limestone, to prevent any injury being done by the treading of the cattle. It is neces- sary to observe, that coarse stones must not be made use of, as they are liable to be displaced by the treading of cattle. They are also liable to be pressed into, or through the bed of clay, or to be rolled down to the bottom of the pond ; under all which circumstances, the beds ot clay and lime are liable to be broken, and the water consequently let out of the pond. Sometimes the clay is covered with sods, the grass side being laid downwards, as a support to the grav- el, by which some saving of covering may be made ; or several inches thick of common earth is laid upon them, or upon the clay without the sods, by way of bed for the covering, where gravel, or such like materials, may be scarce, by which, something may be also saved. After the clay has been well beaten, some workmen water the surface of it, and fold sheep or pigs, for a considerable time upon it ; the treading of which, is found to be serviceable in rendering it more compact. Soiiie people, instead of using slaked lime, have good mortar, made of lime and sand, well worked together, and cover the surface of the ground with it, to the thickness of about an inch ; this, if carefully done, is thought to be the most effectual mode of rendering the bot- tom retentive ; but the mortar is liable to crack before the clay gets bedded over it, which must be carefully guarded against. Ponds have been made, where a coat of mortar has also been spread over the surface of the clay, as well as under it, an approach perhaps as near as possi- ble to perfection ; but where lime bears an high price, the expense is thus considerably aug- mented. .« The best seasoi; for making th.se ponds, thought to be in autumn, as they are then lik^§»'' ly to he filled the soonest, and the least babli to crack before they are tilled. .Should thi weather prove dry at the time they are finish P" ed, it is well to cover their surface with straw t> or litter, to hinder ihem from cr.icking. These ponds are u^u.illy made at the foot o some declivity, where, after heavy rains, a sligh run of water may be conveyed into them, fron some road, or other tirm surface ; but many art placeu without any such assistance for tilling, oi with very little, it being found, that the rail that falls upon their surface is, in general, suf ficienl for a supply, after they have been onci filled. As it is desirable to get them filled a^iii soon as possible after they are finished, snow U s/. frequently collected and heaped upon them possible in large quantities, the first winter af^ Icr they are finished for that purpose. Ponds of this kind, are usually made by what m;y be called professional people ; men who go about for the purpose, and are chietly or en- tirely engaged in it, and usually contract" for the job. One of the diameter of sixty feet, and depth of six feet, may in most situations be ex- ecuted for about 15/. ; one of forty-five feet by five feet for 10/. or 12/.; but some allowance must be made for the different prices of lime, or the distance it may be necessary to convey it, as well as the clay, or the other materials for the work. A pond of sixty feet diameter, by six feet deep, will contain upwards of 700 hogsheids of water ; one of forty-five feet by five feet, near 400 hogsheads — a vast supply, when obtained at so small an expense. Experience now of many years, and the uni- versal use of ponds in this district, wherever wanted, have proved them, when carefully made, s) effectually to retain water, — to pre^ >erve i: of so good a quality, when not fouled by the treading of cattle, — and to be applicable to many situations, that they cannot be too strong- ly recoininended in all high situations, where water may be much wanted, or in all other situ- ations whose the water may be of bad qualify t they are eqi^Uy applicable to our dry wolds, downs and herfhs, which are without water, as to every fenny u-act which has too much of i^ but of a brackish or unwholesome quality. i! From .\itin's Atheneum. Account of a Sticcessfd Experiment in making Soap, bij the operation of Steam, instead of an open fire ; communicate:! by Count Rumford ta the French A'ational Insti'.ute. The steam was conveyed into the vessel, which contained the lie and other materials for the soap, by a pipe arising from a close boiler, and again descending into the vessel; the action of the steam in condensing in the cold lie, oc- sioned a succession of smart shocks, similar to blows of a hammer, which caused the whole apparatus to tremble, but which gradually sub- sided as the liquid became warm. Count Rum- ford supposes, that the beneficial action of the steam depends for the most part on the motioo described, caused by it, and therefore proposes dividing the vessel into two parts by a horizon- tal partition of thin copper, and causing a slow current of cold water to pass through the lower division, and to-*i^^^e steam into this lower [lart, vvhen th^upp^%ecame too hrt lo admit of a continuation of the strokes from ttjg coo- NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 227 iiion of the stream ; by which means the motion being continued in the cold water, ,, ilJ be communicated to the hot liquid thro' le thin partition. T'he soap made by the operation of the steam, red only six hours boiling, whereas sixty lii and more are necessary in the ordinary lethod of making soap. From the Providence Journal. In reading Simondi's Switzerland, I came cross the following notice of a cotton mill which e saw at St. Gall, and which I have transcribed >r vour useful paper — it seems almost incredi- e that one ox should move so great a quanti- t ot machinery; but whether true or not, it lay suggest new ideas of the application of me- hanic powers. B. " We were taken to the most considerable stton mill of the place, set in motion, not by ■ater, or steam ; but the labor of an ox, acting le part of a turn-spit : — the poor animal, shut p in a wheel thirty feet in diameter, walks on I self-defence, as the wheel being once in mo- on, he must go with it, which he does very •liberately, resting his feet on brackets, or ieces of boards nailed across the revolving oor. There are three oxen working by turns, ach two hours ; they last at this rate, two or iree years ; the power is sufficient to move vent}' nine mules of two hundred and sixteen >indles each (there were only twenty going hen I saw it) with carding and cleaning ma- lines in proportion." From the American Farmer. TO MAKE CIDER OIL. This liquor is a very favorite drink with a rge portion of our German citizens, and of an ;reeable flavor, when diluted, to most persons. he following receipt has been commuricafed the Editor, by a person well acquainted with e mode of compounding the liquor. The cider must be well racked t\«-o or three mes in clear weather. Four gsilons of best )ple-brandy are then to be addeJ to each bar- ■.1 of cider, if the cider be weak, but if it be rong, less will sulBce. An infusion of Sassa- as root, made by putting a piece of about the ze of a finger, and chipped fine into a pint of ater, improves the flavor The barrel is then • be rolled. Id years when apple? are abundant, cider ev- 1 of a good quality brings only a small price ; it by converting it into cider oil, it may be reserved until the following spring, and will len commonly sell well. TO DRY PEACHE.?. The following mode of drying peaches is lopted by Thomas Belanjee, of Egg Harbor, ew-Jersey : He has a small house with a stove in it, and rawers in the sides of the house, lathed at leir bottoms. Each drawer will hold nearly alf a bushel of peaches, which should be ripe, id not peeled, but cut in two and laid on the ths with their skins downwards so as to save le juice. On shoving the drawer in they are 'on dried by the hot air of the stove and laid 0. Peaches thus dried eat like raisins. With paring machine, which may be had for a dol- r or two, apples or pears may be pared, and ithcient quantity dried to keep a iamilv in pies, and apple bread and milk, till apples come again. Willi a paring machine,* one person can pare for five or six cutters. * An ingenious friend of ours, in Boston, promised !o make us one of these machines, but we fear he hat for- gotten it. — Ed. Am. Farmer. TO PRESERVE BACON SOUND AND SWEET THROUGH THE SUMMER. Dear Sir — In the Farmer, volume 3, p. 130, you published a communication from Mr. J. W . Lincoln, of Worcester, recommending, that hams, alter being smoked should be packed away hi oaiK. I followed his advice last year, and really feci so much indebted to him for the hint, that I irtust thus publicly thank him ; and for the benefit of my neighbors ask you to re- publish his letter. To give you the hat proof of the beaulil'ul state of preservation secured by this method, I send you a h.Tm weighing 1 1 1 pounds; you will find it perfectly fresh, and full of essence — free from all sort of speck or blem- ish. Those practising this mode of preserving their bacon free from skippers or taint of any kind, should recollect, that the chest or cask, ought to be perfectly tiglit, and raised about sis inches from the ground, and the oats packed in, quite tight. A ham of this size should be boil- ed 3^ hours at least. (fir We can seldom undertake to speak from experience about recipes, but in this case we can vouch for its accuracy, from reliance both on the word and judgment of both the writers. But it must not be expected that the oats will convert bad bacon into good ; all that is promised is that this will preserve it in statu •juo. — Ed. Am. Farmer. From the New York Statesman. NORTHERN COTTON. Messrs. Editors — I planted some of your cot- ton seed last summer, and distributed it among my neighbors, who consideration. ASA RICE, Jr. Shrewsbury, 20ih November, 1 822. * We conjecture Mr. Rice means the one ivhicl obtained the premium at Worcester. On Raising Corn. To the Trustees of the Mass. Agricultural Society. Gentlemen, There is a high barren hill on my farm, whicl has been improved for a pasture ever since tb< NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 229 rst settlement of the town, it had the appcnr- ince of making very good ploughins; land, but n consequence of the steepness of the hiH on ;very side, which rendered transportation so i; litficult, and supposing it bad husbandry to try a o raise Indian corn without plenty of manure, )nn generation after another has passed off and uflered the hill to remain dormant. The pres- ;nt occiipaiit being of the fourth generation of he same family in possession of the farm, hit up- jn an experiment of raising Indian corn with ;he aid of Plaster of Paris alone. 1 went on to ie hill with my team in the month of .Septera- Der 1820, and ploughed as I supposed about two icres, and found it an excellent soil, a deep and jood colored loam, free from stone, left it in that situation until the follnwinff =pring, at which time I first gave it a harrowing', then cross ploughed and harroived it agam which left it in a fine state for planting. My ne.ghtwrs be- gan enquiring what I was about to do on the hill; 1 told them my plan ; they said it was im- possible, such a thing could not be done te ad- vantage, that I should lose ali my labor, but I was resolved to persevere in the experiment. I accordingly furrowed it in my usual way about a common pace asunder, dropped the seed, threw a common table spoonful of plaster into the hill, then covered it with earth which was all the manuring it had, except a slight quanti- ty of ashes at the first time of hoeing. It push- ed forward with greater rapidity through the season than my other corn where I manured very high, and at harvest time it appeared su- perior to any corn I had. Several of my neigh- bors kmdly offered to assist me in harvesting and measuring the corn to know the result, we dbund by exact measurement there were ainety and a half bushels of shelled corn of an excel- lent quality, and by actual survey, we found there was one acre three quarters and twenty- seven rods of land, making almost forty-eight bushels to the acre ; it was supposed to be the greatest quantity to the acre raised in the town, the last season, (it will be recollected the sea- son lor corn was not so good as the present.) The quantity of plaster it took, was about four hundred weight. The whole labor bestowed en the field exclusive of the harvesting was performed by one man and two small boys in fourteen days and one half. I presented this statement to the Worcester Agricultural Socie- Ij, at their December meeting, and they award- ed me a handsome premium and highly compli- mented me for my novel experiment. It was generally supposed that the strength of the land was exhausted, that it would not produce any thing faither unless it be very highly manured, •which caused me to extend the experiment. 1 accordingly planted the same piece the pres- ent season, in the same manner, except adding a little more plaster, say a quarter more to the hill. The same gentlemen who assisted me the last season in measuring the corn assisted me again, and we found by a careful and exact mea- surement there were one hundred and two bush- els lacking two quarts, making over fifty-three bushels per acre. There are perhaps eight or tea acres on thejop of the hill adjoinmg Ibat I ploughed, which is so level, that it is very con- venient workmg on it, which induces me the next season lo sow this piece with oals and grass seed, with a good coat of plaster, and plough up another piece and manage it in the same way. 1 now present the doings of both seasons lo the Massachusetts Agricultural Society for their consideration. AS.\ RICE, Jr. HENRY HOWE. Shrewsbury, Nov. 12, 1822. ^'oTE. Wf. have taken the needfiil liberty of cur- tailing Mr. Rice's letter. We hope without offence, and we are sure we have not lessened its perspicuity or usefulness. Editor. FOR THE NEW ESGLAAU FARMER. From a general view of the evidence and arguments presented to the public by the Ho-i. Mr. Pickering, on the host time for '■'■ fcUiug trees for timber,'''' he appear* to have establish- ed the important fact, beyond a reasonable douht, that white oak limber, felled, or stripper' in barking time, will be stronger, more com- pact, and nearly twice as durable as timber fell- ed in the winter season. The experiments ot Mr. Poor, also, go far in confirming what i\Ir. Pickering had proved. Can there be a doubt but the same means which produced this extraordinary strength, compactness, and consequent durability in oak, would be productive of similar effects in pine, and everv other sort of timber ? We can hard- ly imagine a discovery of more importance to every section of our country, than the certainty that by merely felling their timber at a partic- ular season of the year, their bridges, fences and buildings of every kind, would last nearly double the usual time. On a moderate calculation, it would cost the inhabitants of Massachusetts more than six mil- lions of dollars to renew all the shingles on the roofs of their buildings. The shingles in use arc cliicHy made of white pine, telled ia tho winter, and are estimated on an average, to last about twenty-five years. Hence the expense of the annual wear and waste is no less than ^250,000. If shingles made from white pine stripped of its bark in .lune, would become so compact, and unpassable to the wet, as to last many years longer, the saving to the inhabi- tants of Massachusetts alone, must be no less than ^250,000 for every year beyond the time they usually last. If any gentlemen conveniently situated, will take on themselves the trouble of making a fair experiment of the durability of pine shingles made from trees stripped of their bark in June, compared with common shingles made from trees felled in the winter, and publish the re- sult, they will certainly merit the gratitude of their country. The highly respectable Mr. Cooper, late of New Jersey, is said to have " pronounced with great confidence, that oak and hickory trees felled when their sap was vigorously flowing, would not be attacked by worms, producing what is called powder post." The cause of this exemption from the depredation of worms, is probably the same as that of its extra-durabil- Sir Humphrey Davy tells us in his " Ele- ments of .'Vgncultural Chemistry," that " Mr. Knight examined the alburnum in different pole*; of oak in the same forest : of which some bad been felled in winter, and others in sum- mer ; and be always Ibund most soluble matter in the wood, felled in the winter, and its specific gravity was likewise greaier.^^'* This being the case with the albuninm, or sappy part of the wood, there can be no doubt of a somewhat sim- ilar difference in the heart part of the wood. — The foregoing premises being admitted, we may conclude that timber felled in uinter while replete with inspissated sap, after being thor- oughly seasoned, will, of consequence be found easier to work, because more porous, or spongy than that felled in summer, while the sap is both scanty and limpid ; but the wood of the latter soon becomes more hard, strong, and compact, and consequently more durable : and will never be bored by worms, because it contains no nour- ishment for them. In timber felled in the win- ter, a.f'ter being thoroughly seasoned, the essence or saccharine matter of the sap, still remains in it, a nutritious and palatable food for various kinds of worms, both on laud and under water ; and these worms evidently gain their living as they progress, from the wood they reduce to powder. The vessels of the winter-felled tim- ber, so replete with sap when felled, are be- lieved to continue open, and, like a sponge re- main susceptible of imbibing water whenever exposed, which inevitably produces fermenta- tion and gradual decay. Speaking of timber stripped of its bark ia June, SirH. Davy says :— "The reason of the superiority of this timber is, that the concrete sap is expended in the spring in the sprouting of the leaf j and the circulation being destroy- ed, it is not formed anew ; and the wood having its pores free from saccharine matter, is less liable to undergo fermentation from the action of the moisture and air." From a view of the testimony and argument adduced, in connection with the mass of evidence before the public, we may fairly conclude that the true cause of the extraordinary durability of timber stripped, or telled in barking time is this, tUat when sea- soned it becomes so compact as to be imper- vious to the wet : and also, that it remains se- cure from the depredation of worms, because it contains no saccharine matter for them to sub- sist upon. J. KENRICIC * The subscriber is takin|; effectual meatsures for as- certaining: the exact diiTerence between the ^ecific gravity of various kinds of green timber, in the month of February, and the latter end of June. The result will probably be published. — w*v».*%*— Ants.— The Rev. Wm. Williamson, of West- mere, near Canterbury, in England, communi- cated an expeditious method of destroying Ants, which may be easily adopted where those in- sects become troublesome, or are injurious to plants. He stops the holes at the bottom of small pots, and places them inverted on the spot frequented by these insects, which soon take possession of the interior of the pots, and may then be easily destroyed therein, by hot water. The ground whereon the pots are pla- ced, should be kept rather moist. There arc two sorts of ants which are found in forcing frames, the red and the black ; the former are easily got rid of by introducing the large black ant of the woods, which will leave the frames when the red ants are destroyed, but they are not able to overcome the latter: for the re- moval of these, the above remedy has beec efficacious. — To turn Wine into Vinegar in one hour. — Make a thin round cake of the best rye flour and the o««.u3c it has that weight which attaches to iiic opin- ions of gentlemen, who are eminent for practical, as well as scientific knowledge of agriculture and horti- culture ; and because the merits of the work could in no other words be more concisely, and at the same time more fully expressed. We believe that any per- son who has even no more than half a dozen fruit trees to cultivate, would save money by buying this book and making himself acquainted with its contents ; and every house-keeper who would wish to make the most of one of the cheapest, as well as one of the best gifts of Providence to mankind, would find his or her ac- count in becoming possessed of this compendium of valuable information relative to fruit and fruit trees. A knowledge of the medical properties of apples alone [see Orchardist p. 12] is worth to house-keepers five times the price of this book. As an article of diet, when properly chosen and judiciously cooked, they yield perhaps to no vegetable substance, except the potatoe. Sweet apples, in particular, are a wholesome, che.ap and very palatable food for man and beast. The liberal use of fruit counteracts that debilitating, de- grading and demoralizing hankering after spirituous liquor.«, which foreigners, (we fear with some trutli.) have declared to be a national characteristic of the .\merican people. But we must refer to Mr. Thachn's book for the various uses of fruit (some of which, we dare say, many good people have never thought of,) a;, an article of commerce, as well as domestic consump- tion. We believe that> nothing can prevent the general circulation of Dr. Thacher's American Orchadist, ex- cept that kind o{ economy (falsely so c.iUed) which by " withUolding mor'; than is moet lendeth to poverty ;" or a prejudice, which we fear is too general, agains every kind of information which comes in the shape o a book, or appears in print. But what is this bool knowledge, which some farmers seem to think worai than profound ignorance ? In agriculture, it consists o facts and observations, derived from experience ant reason, and recorded first in writing, and then printed Nobody objects to acquiring the rules of arithmetic geometry, surveying, and the precepts of morality ant ^",( religion, from books. And why may not the rules o agriculture, gardening, and those in particular whicl have reference to the management of fruit trees, be set down in black and white, and sent to the press ? If farmer knows, better than the book can tell him, ho« ''" to manage with regard to any particular point or mat Lj ter set forth in the book, let him make use of his own ^ knowledge, in preference to that in the book. Th book only advises, it does not dictate. It furnishes, a' a cheap rate, materials for the farmer's own mind to work upon. Pope says, " Jf'kat can we reason but from what we ibioizi." And what can we know if we know nothing excepting what we have done ourselves, seen other's do, or heard our neighbors talk of, hi comparison to what we may know by having the experience of ages presented to *■«;> posterity •• greater number of or- chards, in proportion to their population, than are now to be found in the old colony ; and it is no less noto- rious that the children have substituted a poisonous liquor for the salutary beverage, which almost exclu- sively cheered the hearts of their virtuous ancestors. — i he views of men are often materially affected through mere indolence of temper, no less than through the cloud of prejudice. Averse to the labor of reading and' inquiry, they adhere pertinaciously to the routine of their predecessors, and treat with equal contempt the lessons of experience, and all suggestions of improve- ment. It is not, however, desirable that former modes of practice in husbandry should be abandoned until it shall be incontestably proved, that a system more adapted to our circumstances, and in all respects of su- perior utility, can be founded on the surest basis. It it not to be required of our farmers to subject themselves to the expense and uncertainty of novel experiments ; but he who possesses capital and leisure, and who, in the spirit of investigation, shall put in execution a hundred new projects, although in ten only shall he be successful in the acquisition of useful knowledge, will be entitled to public praise and respect. These pages contain no speculative or visionary projects, nor recom- mend any untried experiments. Although a portion of information is derived from European authors, no in- considerable part of it has been collected from the prac- tical experiments and observations of our own country- men. There is, therefore, no part of this production but what may be adopted as applicable to our climat^ and calculated to promote the interests of the cultiva- tors of our soil. The knowledge respecting the proper management nf fruit trees is contained in numerous volumes, and in incidental papers, published in period- ical works. My object has been to collate and em- lirace all the jnincipal circumstances relative to the subject, and condense the wliole into a small compas»» that shall be accessible both to the pecuniary means of all, and to the intellectual powers of the most ordinary capacity. The authoritie*. to which I aa chiefly ia- . NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 231 eUted, are the several encyclopedias, Forsyth on Fruit 'rees, aud the valuable periodical purlitatioiis of your iciety, and various othr'r similar productions. II, in a •w instances, it shall appear that I have employed orrowed language without marks of quotation, my pology is, that 1 have copied from minutes collected I various times, without reference to the source wh( nee erived ; not that 1 would wittingly pilf. r the cultivo- jd fruit of others, and impose it upon my gfuests as the Ssult of my own industry." COMM UMC.i TlO.y. Mr. Kenrick appears to have misapprehended Mr. ickcring's statements in regard to fh- worms which rey on timber. It is well known that the sea-worm its hard pine and white pine aid white oalc— and oubtless most other kinds of wood — placed or used in ;a-water ; and hickory was mentioned as one excep- on ; but without any reference to ilie season of the ear when felled. It was Mr. .loseph Cooper's asser- on, which Mr. Pickering recited, that whit- oak and ickory poles intended to he split ior hoops, should al- ways be cut when the sap was running freely, because len they would not be infestcu with the worms which ■oduce what is called " powder-post." And this as- rtion of Mr. Cooprr's was confirmed by a distinguish- l mill-wright in Pennsylvania, who, for the same rea- in, directs hickory, designed for the cogs of wheels, be cut when the sap is running freely in the spring, his powder-post worm has no relation to the worm Uich is bred in sea-water. 0;^ln Mr. Pickering's address published in our last, igc 221, Ist col. ISth line from bottom, for " sown in ith them," read ^'- ploughed in,''' k.c. FARMER SUMMARY OF NEWS. CONGRESS. =iEXATE.— A bill has passed the mate for appropriating $1000 for the erection of a onument over the tomb of the late Vice President erry. A bill has also passed to be engrossed appro- iating $10,000 for the purchase of apartments for the commodation of the U. ?. Circuit Court in Columbia (strict. A resolution was offered by Mr. Smith, of d. aud agreed to, that the committee of Finance be jtructed to inquire into the expediency of admitting e silver coins of Mexico as a currency in the United ates at their true value. A new bill was reported on e 4th inst. for abolishing imprisonm<^nt for debt. A il to punish frauds committed on the Departments of overnment was read twice and referred. House. — A committee on the subject made a report quitting Messrs. Gales & Seaton of all blame imput- to them for having omitted to print some parts of rtaia documents sent from the Department of the reasury. The Committee likewise stated that they luld obtain no satisfactory information with regard to e omission complained of. This report was ordered lie on the table. A bill supplementary to the exist- g acts to provide for revolutionary pensioners passed le House and was sent to the Senate for concurrence. he new Tariff bill has been debated at great length, at no decision was had at the date of our last accounts. THE MASSACHUSETTS LEGISLATURE dosed 3 session on the 11th inst. Among the most important ablic acts which have been passed, are an act to ap- >rtion and assess a tax of $75,000 — an act authorizing le Governor, with advice of Council, to appoint an jent, or agents, for advocating, at Washington, the I|im9(pf Massachusetts upon the United States for the tpenditures for militia services during the late war — a act in addition to the acts for regulating, training, nd governing the Militia, which provides that the lilitia shall be called out only twice a year, but the GBcers, in addition, are to appear three times for drill ■an act in addition to several acts now in force rtgu- iting the limits of prison-yards and the discharge of oor debtors now in prison. This provides that the rison limits in Suffolk county shall be co-extensive rith Ward No. 5, as now defined, and in all other onnties in the State not beyond fifty rods from the jail. provides, also, that all persons who do not apply for discharge from imprisonment within ninety days from he time of their commitment, shall be put into cl^se onfinement and there kept until discharged by due oQTse of la^ The tbanks of the Senate were pre- sented to the Hon. John Phillips, President of the Sen- ate, and those of the House to the Hon. Levi Lincoln, Speaker of the House, aud appropriate answers were returned by each. FOREIGN.— By an arrival at New York on the Pth inst. London and Liverpool papers have been received from the IDth to the 30th Dec. These give rumors of medit^tf^'tl hostilities betwteu France and Spain. The Freiith monarch, howtver, appears to be disposed to maintain peace between the two countries. But the other members of the Holy Alliance, particularly the F.mperor Alexander, seem determined to interfere with the internal concerns of Spain, and force the Cortes to restore the ancient order of things. The internal situ- ation of Spain is said to be very deplorable. The rem- nants of the army of the Faith have formed themselves into bands, which harass the troops of Mina. The recruiting of the Spanish armies is proceeding with vi- gor, and the manufacturing of arms of all descriptions is going on with great energy. An article from Madrid, professing to be official, states, that an alliance offensive and defensive, has been concluded between Spain and Portugal, under wliich, the latter is to furnish 8,000 troops to the Span- iards, and the force is to be increased as occasion may require. The affairs of the Greeks are said to be, on the whole, prosperous, Mr. Canning, the British Minister, il is said has sent a declaration to the Porte, that the Grand Seignior must render the Greeks independent, or England must take them under her protection. There have been some changes in the Turkish ministry, wliich threaten a war with Russia. Canaris, a celebrated Greek Captain, with two (ire sbips on the 10th of Nor. at 7 o'clock in the evening, made an attack upon the Turkish fleet, aud burnt the •Vdmirars ship with such rapidity, that out of the whole crew, not more than 20 or 30 escaped ; two frigates were likewise consumed. This captain, in the excess of his ardor to hasten the explosion of the fire ship, took up burning coals with his hands, which he threw upon the fire ship, and his hands were severely burnt. The Greeks have declared a number of ports in the Rledi- terranean in a state of blockade, and the English com- manders have ordered the declaration to be respected. DOMESTIC— The important question of the right ofqi state to grant the exclusive privilege of steam boat navigation upon its waters is to be argued before the Supreme Court of the U. S. sitting at Washington. The Lift of James Otis, by \\'m. Tudor, Esq. has just issued from the press of Messrs. Wells & Lilly, of this city. The work is highly spoken of by adequate judges, and is said to be well written and to contain much valuable information. At the Municipal Court in this city, on Wednesday last, Edward P. Perley was sentenced to five days soli- tary imprisonment, and five years hard labor in the State Prison. A store occupied by Messrs. Heywood & Fisher, No. 4, Central-street, Boston, was forcibly entered on the night of the 8th inst. and a large quantity of goods was stolen therefrom. On Friday morning last, the Woollen Factory at Northampton, belonging to J. & C. Cook, was destroy- ed by fire, with all its contents. The amount of loss is about 12,000 dollars, and there was no insurance. American Iron. — The Bennington (Vt.) Gazette as- sures us that an extensive establishment is in success- ful operation in that place for the manufacture of iron ; and that the pigs are pronounced by competent judges to be equal, if not superior to any iron made in the U. States. A vein of soft chrystalized and semi-transpa- rent stone has likewise been discovered in that town, which has been found to he more useful in fluxing iron in the furnace, than any other ingredient that has ever been tried. The Pioneers, a new novel from the pen of the cele- brated author of " The Spy," has recently been pub- lished in New York. The work sold with a rapidity unprecedented in the annals of American literature. We have not seen the work, but judging from pretty numerous extracts, which we have seen, we should believe the book fully merits the rapid sale which it has met with. A young man by the name of Tompkins, who lived in Ottawa District, U. C. lately set out, in the morning, to travel through a forest with a loaded Traintau and four children of one of his brothers. The weather changing to a storm, and his horse becoming tired, he left the children with the horse, to seek assistance at the nearest haiiitation. On the return of the party, the three youngest, who were boys, were Ibund frozen to death, and the eldest, a girl, ten years of age, was so much frozen that the loss of her feet was apprehended. Two persons, named Ileubcn Craft and Abraham Mead, were found frozen to death at Kedniill, Dela- ware county, N. Y. It is thought that they got lost in the night, in attempting to go through a thick wood o about three miles in extent. On the 25th of January, as Mr. Peter Demarest, of New.'bundland, N. J. was fixing a flint in his gun, it ac- cidentally went off, and the contents entered the side of his wife. With a solitary exclamation — "Peter, you have hurt me," she fell and immediately expired. This fatal accident has so deeply affected the mind of the wretched husband, that it was feared he would be deprived of his reason. A cow of the Bakewell breed, belonging to Widow Sarah Hoit, of Sandwich, N. H. on the l^lh January, brought a buli calf, which was very handsome, well proportioned, and weighed the same day 142 pounds. — jV. H. Patriot. A sugar house in Love-lane, New York, owned by Mr. Henry Willett, was destroyed by fire on the night of the 25th ult. together with the stock amounting to upwards of $6000. PRICES OF COUNTRY PRODUCE, &ic. [Revised and corrected every Friday.] ASHES, pot, 1st qual. . . . pearl do BEANS, white, BEEF, mess, 200 cwt. . . . cargo. No. 1 " No. 2 BUTTER, inspect. 1st qual. . " 2d qual. . small kegs, family, CHEESE, new milk .... FLAX FLAX SEED FLOUn, Daiiiiui^t'c, auperhne, Genessee .... Rye, best .... GRAIN, Rye Corn Barley ..... Oats HOGS' LARD, 1st sort . . HOPS, No. 1, LIME, OIL, Linseed, American . . PLAISTER PARIS . . . , PORK, Navy Mess .... Bone Middlings . . . Cargo, No. 1, . . . Cargo, No. 2, . . . SEEDS, Herd's Grass . . • Clover WOOL, Merino, full blood,-washed do. do. unwashed do. 3-4 washed do. 1-2 do. Native .... do. Pulled, Lamb's, 1st sort do. Spinning, 1st sort PROVISION MARKET. BEEF, best pieces .... POP.K, fresh VEAL, . . . MUTTON, POULTRY, BUTTER, keg & tub ... lump, best . . . EGGS, MEAL, Rye, >ndian, > . • . . POTATOES, CIDER, liquor, HAYj best, .. .... -. FROM TO D. C. D. C. Ion. 145 00 148 oa 155 00 157 50 busli 90 1 00 bbl. 9 50 10 00 8 50 9 00 7 00 7 50 lb. 14 15 Vi 13 16 17 i 9 8 9 bush 1 00 I 19 bbl. 7 25 7 50 7 50 4 25 4 50 bush 85 90 72 75 65 70 45 43 lb. p 10 11 13 cask 1 25 1 50 gal. 65 70 ton. 3 00 3 50 bbl. 12 00 12 50 14 50 15 00 12 00 12 50 11 00 11 50 bush 2 00 2 25 lb. 8 9 65 75 60 65 60 54 46 48 3- 40 5C 60 50 lb. 8 19 5 6 7 « 3 7 7 9 16 17 SO 23 doz. 23 26 bush 90 80 37 bbl. 1 50 ton. 22 OCC 24 ^<» I 232 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. THE SLEEP OF THE SLUGGARD. BY T. C. FESSZXDES. 0 list to in indolent lump of live lumber, Whom slothfulness binds wilh invisible band?, " A little more sleep, and a little more slumber, A little more folding together the handa. " I've a villainous cold — and my head — liow it aches ! The north wind is blowing, and stings like a hornet, And as to this rising as soon as day breaks, 'Tis a vile vulgar habit, and gentlefolks scorn it. " I'm none of those ivretches who labor for bread Through foul or fair weather, whatever may hap ; 1 mean to enjoy both my table and bed. And so I'll turn over and take 'tother nap. " I've money enough, and can live at my ease, I cannot be caught in necessity's trap, I'll sleep every day, till the next, if I please, And so I'll turn over and take Hother nap." His heavy, hydropical carcass he turns. And sinks in uneasy, intemperate rest. Tilt dim in his bosom the lamp of life burn?. While snorting with night-mare, and plethora prest. What horrible visions his bed hover o'er. The phantoms of spleen, and the blue devils dire ! Lifee Gorgons and Hydras of fabulous lore, And red dragons vomiting rivers of fire ! Now clings to the side of a prominent steep, O'er a rough, roaring cataract hangs by a hair, Now suddenly sinks in a bottomless deep. And starts, half awake, with a shriek of despair. Thus rolls, like a porpoise, o'er biHows of down, Grows big as a mammoth, and fat as a seal, Lives a plague to his friends, or a charge to the town, And dies to make worms a most plentiful meal. Ye sons of Columbia, shun the syren of sloth, For if you submit to her leaden control, Tou'll find, when too late, lilre n y-'^nomntis moth. She eats up the substance, and poisons the soul. {f the wizard of indolence takes you in hand, Quick break from his grasp, or you're quickly undone. Your limbs will be lithe as a wickapy* wand, And your sinews be soften'd, like wax in the sun. * Wickajiy is the popular name for" a shrub, u-hich is remarkably flexible. Of those who claim it, more than half have none, And half of those who have it are undone. Natural History. — A traveller was talking of having seen, in some foreign country, bed bngs, so large and powerful, that two of them would drain a man's blood in a night. H'lr .lohu ipoj'lc. to whom this was addressed, replied, " My good sir, we have the same animals in Ireland, but they are knciva by another name. We call them humbugs.'''' The difference bclv.-cc7i long-tailed, and short- failed horses. — The following singular adverfise- ment was painted in large letters on a board, placed on (he side of a licld, in the neighbor- hood of Greenwich, Eng. " Good gra='i for horses. Long tails, three shillings and sixpence per week ; short tails, two shillings and sixpence ])er week." The difference in the charge w.is made because the long tails can whisk off the liiis, and eat at their leisure, while the short tails are running about ffOBj morning till oighn He that does not give his son a trade or a profession, learns him to be a knave, and per- haps a thief This, mor^ especially holds good as respects the children of the poor. Poor children that are brought up neither to a trade, nor any regular occupation, are laid under a sort of necessity to become rogues for a liveli- hood. There is a labor of the mind as well as of the body, and some employ themselves very usefully to society, who do but little with their hands. But the labor of the body, if not ex- cessive, strengthens the mind, and those who do not labor from necessity, should labor for health. there is scarcely any part of the creation whic does not afford an extensive field for microsci ^ pic inquiry. \y. From the American Daily Advertiser. Mr.. PoiLsoN — Seeing an account of some microscopic animals, found in pepper, water, dc. in your paper a few days ago, 1 take the liberty of adding some observations, extracted from dif- ferent authors concerning this minute part of the creation. Parts o( insects, scales of fish, animal and vegetable infusions, are Tery interesting ob- jects for microscopic observation. The illus- trious naturalist, Swammerdam, had a more per- fect apparatus than any one of the age in which he lived. His apparatus, I think, is now in the Royal Society, and it is said to have about 30t> different magnifiers ; he manufactured most of his utensils himself His " chief art," says Mr. Samonnelle, " consisted in manufacturing scis- sors of exquisite fineness, with which he was able to dissect the smallest insects ; and the in- testines of bees." I shall commence by draw- ing the reader's attention to certain small ver- miform animals, found in vinegar, which may sometimes be discovered even by the naked eye. These are interesting, and are always to be had without either expense or trouble. Animals, almost exactly like them, may be found in paste, when kept until sour ; and by keeping the sur- face of the paste continually moistened, they may be preserved for almost any length of time. The next kind are minute animals, of various forms, found in an infusion of hay. These are always to be had, as every one has it in his power to obtain them, by placing some hay in a vessel of water, and letting it remain exposed to the sun's heat until a pellicle be found on the surface, in which myriads of these animals may be found. An innumerable quantity of animals, so small as to require the aid of a microscope, may be found in sea water. All of those who have witnessed that beautiful phe- nomena, of the sea being luminous, may not know that this appearance is owing to small jelly-like bodies, which are phosphorescent, or have a luminous property : by the assistance of the microscope, these animals are found to pos- sess a mouth, stomach and intestines ; but their extreme minuteness renders their dissection and examination very diihcnit. In the water of ponds and ditches, and all stagnant water, ani- malcule are found in abundance. Those small insects, &.c. which inhabit pools awl standing waters, may be procured by means of a net, made sulliciently open to suffer the water, but not the insects, to escape. The mud must bo brought up from the bottom, and m it many interesting animals are found, which may be picked out and put into a phial of clean water ; by thii means, they may be kept alive. In fact, From the Village Record. l' A distant correspondent has sent us quite a ci * riosity ; a Love Letter ; not one of your mo( em, whining, crying and blubbering epistle talking of flames, broken hearts, and dying, an all that, but a good old fashioned letter such our proud spirited grand mothers used to writ to sr/ains when faithless. Now-a-days, forsootl if a lover leaves his own mistress for a new or he likes better, the melancholy, broken-hearte dame brings in her action for something like thousand or two dollars, and solaces herself fc the loss of a lover's person in the hope of good portion of his wealth. Elizabeth ALv' THEWS was a girl of spirit, an honor to Beverl and a praise to old Massachusetts. Such wome j^i were fit to become the mothers of soldiers — I' warrant it, if the truth could be known, th; she afterwards married an officer, at least ; high in commission as an Ensign. — But the le ter. It is directed " To Mr. Michael Brown in Exeter. These with care." No proof is necessary to convince us it is genuine origmal letter. It carries with it ii trinsic and irresistible evidence that it is what purports to be. Here it is. " Beverly, March ye 21, 1777. " Mr. Michael Broun, " Sir — I once more take an opportunity write you, to let you know I am well, throug the goodness of God, and can live without yo' company — but pray don't get published the thi time. I should be glad if you would come ai get your clothes, for I don't want no conce with them — for I hope that you will lake ca not tu promiso any young lady more than y< intend to perform ; for I'd have you consider th God can see further than Exeter — although y< thought you did me a great injury to go ai leave me, I never thought so; for I'm ve well contented with your absence, and beg Gc to keep you there if j'ou like it. So no mo at present — but 1 remain a well-wisher to i the true hearts — and a curse to all false ones. Eliz.ibeth Matthews." Nicholas Rowe, the poet, one day went pay his court to the lord treasurer Oxford, wl asked him if he understood Spanish well ? h answered "No:" but thinking that his lordsh: might intend to send him into Spain on sort honorable commission, he presently added, " th he did not doubt but he could shortly be ab both to understand and to speak it." The ea approving what he said, Rowe took his Ifeavl and, retiring a few weeks to learn the languag' waited on the carl to acquaint him with it.- His lordship asking him " if he was sure li understood it thoroughly ?" and Rowe affirmio that he did, " how happy are you Mr. Rowe. said the earl, " that you can have the pleasai of reading and understanding the history of Do Q,uixote in the original." An eminent Grocer Company in Dublin ai nounce in the newspapers in that city, ths they have whiskey for s.ile which ■was drank b his Majtstij xi'hils in Ireland. k lb ■'■ lit lie \m mt If Etl Ui (!i: E; «l ro!c £sct ■•iioi NEW ENGLAND FARMER. ublished every Saturday, by THORIAS W. SHEi'ARI), lingers' Buiidinjr, Congress Str.: Vol. I. BOSTON, SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22. 132.3. at $2.5'J i.cr aim, in arfvance, r.r $3,00 at the close of tin year. No. 30. DISEASES OF CATTLE. iLECTED AND COMPII.EH FROM THE BKST AUTBOHS, BX THE EDITOR. '''^ }» the management of Cows, when they are near the time of cahing. The diseases, which most commonly occur it this time, are strangury, or difficulty in void- ng urine, and costiveness ; and these it may be lighly necessary to attend to, as they may, if leglected, be the cause of the cow slipping her ;alf. When strangury is accompanied withcos- iveness, which is generally the case, and is of- eu the cause of the complaint, the bowels must 4 cause an abscess to form. As soon as it is ob- served, let the animal be bled freely, and take a pound of cpsom salts dissolved in a quart of gruel, to which a little castor or linseed oil may be added. The swollen udder should tVequent- ly bo fomented with a decoction of mallows or elder. The best method of doing this, is to dip largp woollen cloths in the hot "decoction, and, after wringing them, let them be applied .«o as to cover the whole udder : this process should be continued for some time, and repeated sev- er.Tl times a day. When, by these means, the inllammation has been removed, some degree of hard, but not painful swelling may remain ; to disperse this, the following liniment may be is observed to be commg on, they should be They should be kept in a )e opened by a laxative composed of a pound )f epsom salts dissolved in a quart of gruel, a i rubbed on the part once or twice a day ;lyster should also be given, consisting of two juarts of warm water, and four ounces of lin- ieed oil. This may be repeated two or three imes in the course of two hours, if found ne- ;essary. Should the strangury continue after he bowels are emptied, give the following irink : 'Of Take of camphor 2 dr. to be powdered and mixed with spirits of nitrous ether ^ oz. Tincture of opium i oz. Gruel in which one ounce of nitre has been dissolved 1 pi. (Mix.) " Many cows have been lost by allowing them 0 be too fat at the time of calving ; they are hcu said to Jie of (he lullli lever. It in advi^^v )le, theretbre, when a cow, far gone with call', s in too good condition, to reduce her by chan- ti 'ing the pasture, which is preferable to bleed- ng or physic ; but if she has approached too lear her time to admit of this change having »ny efiect, then bleeding will be proper. When a cow. in high condition, appears to be ill and feverish soon after calving, let her be bled to the extent of three quarts, and take a pint of castor oil. Should the fever continue, and par- ticularly if it appears to increase, the animal expressing great uneasiness, with a wildiiess in her appearance, great redness of the upper eye lid, and quick motion of the flanks, the bleeding must be repeated. Many cows have been de- stroyed by the stimulating medicines that are commonly recommended and given," — JVhite's Treatise. Dr. Skellett recommends a similar treatment of the strangury m cows, and adds " The cow should have plenty of diluting liquors, such as warm water, gruel, he. and mashes made of bran, or pollard, with a little malt. In two or three hours after she has had the drink and clyster, it will be necessary to drive her gently about for a quarter of an hour, as it greatly as- sists the operation of the medicines. " To prevent this disease, the animal ought to have air and exercise daily, and such food fiven her as is of a laxative nature, which will e of the greatest utility in her latter months of gestation." Inflammation and szselling of the Udder. This disease attacks cows about the time of calving, and is sometimes so coosiderable as to 41 oz. 1 oz. i oz. sometimes occurs Take of linseed oil Spirits of turpentine Liquor of ammonia InOainraation of the udder in consequence of catching cold, or a chilt, as it is more commonly termeil ; in this case, the ap- petite is diminished, the cow stares, the breath- ing is quickened, and there is some degree of f...v.T. Here bleeding is generally necessary ai lirst, and the following warm laxative : — Common salt 6 to 8 oz. Oil or lard G oz. Flour of mustard 1 oz. Whey or water 1 qt. (Mix.) The animal should be taken under cover, and fed with warm mashes of bran or malt. One ounce of nitre may be put into her water, morn- ing and evening. This inflammation is generally confined to one or two quarters of the udder, but sometimes spreads over the whole. The milk drawn from the infected quarter is of a yellowish or whey color, and contains small flakes or curds. When the inflammation is not scascnably checked, it often proceeds to suppuration. If the matter be suffered to accumulate, a large abscess will form, and the gland, or quarter will be so disor- ganized as to be incapable ever after of forming milk. It is probable, however, that, when this happens, the other three quarters will have their capacity for forming railk gradually in- creased. Whenever matter has been formed in the udder, and can be distinctly felt, it is proper to open it in the lowest part, that the matter may flow ofl" freely. When this has been done, the part should be kept clean, and no matter allowed to lodge in the cavity, which should be syringed with warm water. To get rid of the matter, it sometimes becomes necessary to make an opening in the teat, a little above its extremi- ty, or the orifice. There is no occasion for cramming tents into the cavit3', or daubing the udder with filthy ointments ; it is quite sufficient to bathe and syringe with warm water twice or three times a day, which will prevent ihe accu- mulation of matter ; and if the healing process goes on languidly, a mixture of spirit and water, or a solution of white vitriol may be injected. Cows that are near calving should be attended to with reference t9 their complaint ; and if it bled, and milked bare pasture, or put into a cow" housTfmd'be a lowed but little hay, and a little of the liniment above mentioned, or some other emollient oint- ment made use of to soften the udder. What by some is called the Snarled Bag, or Swelled Udder, requires no other treatment than rubbing the part with elder ointment, and as the complaint is merely temporary, from the extension of the milk vessels and is, in fact, a proof of a good milker, it will soon yield to this application. li'oi/7uh of Cattlr. " The wounds of cattle are most commonly caused by goring each other with their horns, or by breaking over fences ; and, when deep or extensive, arc generally followed with consider- able inflammation. The treatment of these wounds, though represented by farriers as an intricate *id mysterious branch of the art, is, in fact, extremely simple. When the wound is considerable, and some important parts have been injured, the irritating treatment commonly adopted by farriers, often destroys the animal"; and, in slighter wounds, their stimulating appli- cations rather tend to retard^ than promote re- covery. Indeep and extensire wounds, affect- ing important parts, every method must be em- ployed, as early as pof%ible, to prevent a 'fatal inflammation from taking place. Bleeding is the first remedy ; and immediately after, let a jmrgattiTc jT laxaHve drink be given, receJiits lor which may tc found under ihsTioAA, Orbies. and other diseases.* On no account should the wound be probed, or havo any tents crammed into it, nor should any stimulating mixture be applied. The emollient fomentation [a decoc- tion of mallows and elder] directed for swollen udder, is the onl}' application that can be used with advantage, until the inflammation has sub- sided ; the fomentation should be continued for a considerable term, and repeated frequently. " When the inflammation occasioned by the wound, has been removed it will be proper to examine it with a probe, to ascertain whether any matter be confined or not ; as in that case, it may le necessary to enlarge the original wound, to give it vent, or make an opening in another more depending situation, that it may run off freely. Some stimulating application may also be proper at this period, such as a so- lution of blue vitriol ; or Tincture of myrrh 2 oz. Corrosive sublimate 12 gr. " One part of oil of turpentine to two parts of sweet oil form a good digestive, as it is tend- ed. And, if an ointment is preferred — Take of hog's lard 8 oz. Bees' wax 1 oz. Common turpentine 6 oz. " Melt them together ; and, when taken from the fire, add one ounce of powdered verdigris ; continue stirring the mixture until it is cold. " With respect to sewing up a wound, as it is called, there are circumstances which sometimes *":ee >'ew England Farmer No. 26, pas« 201. 'I a \.v.. NEW ENGLAND FAKMER. render it liighly improper ; in deep wound', for exnraple, %vKere Ibe extprnal opening is not ve- ry I'lr;?' ORIGINAL COMMUNICATIONS. The following leller to Mr. Po.merov, Vice Presi- or in wounds, wliore tlie divided parts 1,^^^^ of the Massachusetts Asrriciiltural Society, we are liave n-cedi'd from each other, nnJ there is dif- lir.iiltv in lirln^ing them together; in tlie for- mer case, the matter would be confined ; in the iiilter, much irritation would be can-ed by the .'titches. In lioth cases, the inflammation would be considerably increased ; but in superficial wound-, and where a flap of skin is separated, it will be jiroper to stitch it up ; but on no ac- count, should there be any stimulating fluid in- troduced, such as tincture of benzoin [friar's balsam] as Dr. Clatcr advises. It would be suf- licient, should there be any dirt, or other mat- ter, about the wound, to wash it off with warm water. Wounds of the belly, through which the bowels press out, are highly dangerous, and require the most delicate management. The first thing to be done, when this accident hap- pens, is to put back the bowel into the belly as tenderly as possible ; but it any dirt, hair, or other matter be observed on the intestine, it must be carefully washed oiT with warm water. When the bowel has been replaced, the wouud must be stitched up, by means of a crooked nee- dle and tlircads doubled, or small twine, well waxed (with bees wax ;) a bandage is then to be applied. The animal is to be kept at rest, on a spare, opening diet, of grass, or bran ; and, il in any degree costive, a dose of castor oil may be given. The treatment of the wound is of little importance : the great object is to keep the bowel in its situation. It sometimes hap- pens, that a great deal of air gets into the intes- tine, after it has escaped from the belly, and so distends it as to render it dilficult, if not imprac- ticable, to replace it through the original wound. When, after a careful, and patient trial, this is found to be the case, the wound is to bo enlarg- eil, so as to allow the bowe' to be replaced. — This must be done cautiously, the knife being guarded by the foreiiugor. " Bleeding from wounds seldom proves dan- gerous in cattle, and, if left to nature, generally stops in a short time ; indeed it is the best plan not to meddle on these occasions: for, though the bleeding may appear formidable to persons not accustomed to such sights, it is really not dangerous; and unless some large vessel lia*; been wounded, which would bid defiance both lo styptics and to pressure, it may safely be left 10 nature. Should it he thought necessary, how- ever, to stop the bleeding, the most effectual mode of doing it, next to that of tying the blood- vessel, is pressure, by putting bolsters of tow or sponge to the bleeding part, and supporting it firmly with bandage. During the progress of the wound towards healing, the new flesh of- ten rises above the surface, or appears to be produced too luxuriantly, to check this, a little j)0wdered blue vitriol, mixed with bole, may be sprinkled on the part." — H-'hkc's Treatise. (to be continued.) " Dr. Black has calculated that it would take fourteen millions of films of gold, such as is on some gilt wire, to make uj) the thickness of one inch ; whereas fourteen millions of leaves of common printing paper would occupy 3-Uh of a mile in thickness. Vol. ii, page 654. The ductility of gold is such, that one ounce of it is sufficient to gild a silver wire more than 1300 miles long." informed, was written by a gentleman who lias had much experience as an Orchardist. It contains valua- ble information, and we are happy to give it a place in our columns. Neviton, Jan. 11, 1823. Sir — I have been much pleased with your val- uable communications (in the Massachusetts Ag- ricultural Repository &. Journal) on the culture of flax, and on the improvement of our farms in New England. For each of these publica- tions please to accept my thanks. I have also, with much pleasure, read Mr. Pickering's valu- able communication on the best time for felling timber. I think he is substantially correct, with one exception in page 187, vol. 7, where he says, " the larger the grain, the harder and stronger is the wood." From experience I cer- tainly know that coarse grained wood, though heavy is brittle, and far from being the strong- est. Ask any Wheelwright and you will be told that coarse grained wood is unfit for spokes or carts, and too brittle for pin wood. The strong- est timber will always be found in a medium between the coarsest and the finest grained. — The information he has given of the durability of Mr. Cooper's fences, strikes me as of vast im- portance to the great body of American far- mers. The foots stated by Mr. Cooper are un- doubtedly correct ; and there must have been an adequate cause why the timber felled in barking time was so evidently the most durable. No one can doubt but the vessels of trees are full of sap during the winter season. As the spring comes on, the sap becomes remarkably limpid, so that our sugar makers have found, in March, that by making a small incision in a tree they can soon draw off nearly all its juices I apprehend that by the warmth of the sun, this limpid sap finds its way to the bark, where in the course of the season it forms the new circle of wood. It is worthy of notice, that, in our climate, there are but about three months in a year in which the bark may be stripped with ease, during which time nearly the whole growth of the trees takes place ; and, I am strongly inclined to believe, but little if any sap remains in the heart part of the trees. To what other cause than the absence of the sap, can we fairly impute the extraordinary dura- bility of Mr. Cooper's fences which were felled in the month of May ? Persuaded of the correctness of the foregoing ideas, in regard to the rapid flow of sap from the bodies of trees early in the spring, wher- ever any cutting or incision is made, 1 have for a number of years deferred pruning my trees till .June. And I am satisfied that the only pro- per time for pruning is while the bark will peel — in June or July. I have made many experi- ments, and find where limbs have been taken off', either in autumn, winter, or early in the spring, it has invariably proved injurious to the trees — much of the sap has exuded, and rot- tenness ensued, and soon penetrated to the heart. I have no doubt but most of the decayed, hol- low, and rotten appletrees so commonly to be seen, were occasioned by unseasonable and im- proper pruning. I have also found that the stumps of the limbs amputated in June or .luly will he almost immediately encircled with a l*n oilj iliot iiW ring ot new wood, and in a short time, in pro- portion to the thriftiness of the tree, and sizi I* of the limbs, be completely healed over. 1 well remember a fine thrifty orchard of ap< *'? pletrees of grafted fruit, in the south of Newton, more than fifty years ago, so productive as to excite envy among the neighbors (for that base passion existed then.) Mr. Ward, the owner,Pj always pruned this orchard pretty thoroughly •' in March, and I rem mber to have heard him say, — " it would ruin appletrees to prune them in tlie summer." This fine orchard soon went '"' to decay, and for more than twenty years past '^f' there has been scarcely the remnant of a tree to be seen on the ground. I am, Sir, with due respect, yours, J. KENRICK Saimiel W. Pomeroy, Esq. P. S. — Permit me in a few words further, ta urge the importance of pruning only in bark- ing time. The sap being then evidently near, and in actual contact with the bark, instantly flows to form the healing circle of wood, and there does not appear to be a drop wasted. When pruning is done at any other time of the j'ear, no new circle of "uoood u-ilt be formed a- round the stumps of the branches removed, and for this plain reason, — that the sap is in the body of the tree and not on the outside. This being the case, wherever the wound is made, when the sap is, or becomes, limpid, it will flow out like blood from an animal body. J. K. tii lit. I'--- [lite kit I:: Kit A TO THE EDITOR OP THE NEW ENGLAND FARMER. Sir. — As any thing relating (o agriculture, however small, as to an individual, may be val- uable in a public view, I oeiid yvu Cui jour pa- per (if you think it worthy) the tbllowing infal- lible cure for the diarrhaea, looseness, or scour- ing in calves. 1 call it infallible, because in thirty years use of it I have not known of its tailing to effect a cure by once giving, but in one instance, and in that a second effected it. I think it much more convenient for farmers, than the medicine recommended in your paper, No. 27. Put into a suitable bottle about half a pint good Cider, (not sweet nor bottled,) then open a vein in the Call's neck and let into the bottle about the same c|uantily of blood ; shake it quickly well together, and put it down the Calf's throat, before it has time to coagulate, which is easily done with the bottle. I am, Sir, your's respectfullv, LOVETT PETERS. Westboro'', yVorcater County, Feb. 7, 1823. TO THE EDITOR OF THE NEW ENGLAND FARMER. Sir — There is probably no part of New Eng- land where the land is better adapted to the production of Indian Corn than the valley of the Connecticut river, nor no part where its culture is better understood; hence it is that we see in the markets of New York and Boston the fattest beef from this section of country, it being the practice here during our long winters to feed the cattle with as much corn meal daily, as can be crowded into them, and to turn them, off in the spring of the year, after having been fatted on this costly food from 100 to 150 days, at an expense, on an average, of thirty-five bushels of corn, and a ton and a half of hay to NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 23.S , bullock of 1000 lbs. weight. The almost in- ■ariable result, for the last six or eight years, ins beeu, either the loss of hay or corn, ami ometimes of both — the cattle having been sold or only a little advance in the spring over the ;ost in the fall. Habits are stubborn things, and it is very like the same practice and the same result will follow for six or eight years to come, till at length the farmers of the valley must yield to the superior skill of those on the moun- tain towns, who raise the cattle, and who are latterly getting into the way of stall feeding them in the winter at much less expense, by substituting roots for corn during the tirst half of tho time they are kept in the stalls ; and al- though they may be obliged to buy some corn from the valley during the latter part of the time, yet on the whole, they get their cattle well fatted in the most economical way. They have, therefore, no inducement to sell their grass fed cattle in the fall of the year at a less price than heretofore, and the consequences will be that the farmers of the valley must either adopt their mode of feeding, or put up with a loss tor years to come as they have done for years past. But why do they persist in feeding with corn during the whole of our long winters when they can raise a thousand bushels of tur- nips on an acre of land ? I answer — It is the force of habit — and so long as they will neglect to raise any kind of roots, either turnips, beers, carrots or potatoes to eke out their corn cribs, so long will they make a lo.sing business of fat- ting cattle. I have had it on my mind, Mr. Ed- itor, to write an article for your useful paper on this subject before now. It has, however, been put ofi, and I doubt whether 1 should have wrote at all, if a fact to corroborate the forego- ing statement had not recently come under my own obfiprvation. Capt. Billings, of Chesterfield, (one of the mountain towns) sold a pair of cattle the other day to Mr. Theodore Clap, of this town, which had been fatted wholly upon turnips and po- tatoes. They ought to have been fed two months longer with as much corn meal as they could have eaten, but they were in tine order, and Mr. Clap was induced to drive them to Bos- ton. I took their weight at the hay scales when they started — the largest ox weighed 1067 lbs. and if 56 lbs. are deducted for loss in driving to Boston, the real weight there would have been only 1911 lbs. alive — the quarters, hide, and rough tallow weighed 1593 lbs. of which the latter was 23G lbs. — the otTal therefore was but a sixth part. This ox handled well and had a thin neck, but on the whole he was rather a coarse creature, with high bones and loose joints. His mate was what the feeders call a fine ox, and weighed here, alive, 1533 lbs. and one third less in Boston when dressed. A grass fed ox of this description will fetch about 10 per cent, more on the hundred for the stalls, than one of coarse make, but it seems in this case the fine smooth ox had one pound in three of offal and the coarse ox only one pound in six. — If this fact will hold good as a general rule, it is time for the feeders of cattle to make as great a change in their habits of buying as of feeding them. The object of this communication, Mr. Editor, i, to urge it upon farmers to test things by ac- tual experiments, and not to take for ormled what they do is best, because it has been prac- tised from time immemorial. With that view 'years; — whilst on a subsequent examination of 1 would recommend the Agricultural Societies to give the following premiums, viz : 1st. dolls, to the person who shall prove by actual experiment, the cheapest and best way nf fatting cattle in the winter, one yoke to be fed with corn meal alone, and another yoke with corn meal only half the time, and with roots the other half. 'Jd. dolls, to the person who shall prove in like manner, the most protitable cattle to put into the stalls — one yoke to be high boned, long legged, smart working cattle ; and one yoke to be tine, short legged, small boned, smooth cat- tle, and in all cases to be weighed when lirst put into the stalls, and at least once a month while fatting. Your friend, T. JVorthamplon, Feb. 1823. From the Massachusetts Agricultural Repository. ON GRASSES. To the Recording Secretary. Dear Sir — At your suggestion, that there might be some utility in publishing the result of some experiments made the past season upon the evaporation of certain Grasses, &c. in the process of drying or making for safe and useful preservation; therein inclose the same to you for such disposition as you may think proper. The great object of research seems to be, what is that admirable process of nature, (as yet too little understood,) by which vegetable life is sustained and promoted ? And how can this be traced or pursued so as to allow to human skill and ingenuity the nearest approach to the wonderful perfection of the great design? That this may be usefully done — that it is indeed partly accomplished, and that we are in full progres- sion to this effect, cannot be doubted. Tlie discoveries and improvements in those scien- ces, particularly in Europe, which have a ref- erence to the theory of agriculture, have of late shed such a light upon the subject, and these have been so followed up by practice and confirmed by experience, that the result is in- deed most auspicious, and marks the present age as an era of improvement. But the process of nature is indeed subtle and mysterious, and can only be unfolded to the most earnest and diligent inquirer. An accurate knowledge of the elements which compose vegetable life, and different de- grees in which they prevail in its formation, cannot be useless, in looking back for its origin and first principles. The tendency of most mo- dern discoveries in relation to vegetation has been to shew the great prevalence of water in its coiuposition. This has not only been made to appear by the analysis of plants, but it has to the astonishment of those who prosecuted these researches, appeared, that an acre of ground gave, according to its huunditv, from 2 to 4000 gallons of water to the atmosphere in a day by evaporation only. The operation of this element has appeared so extensive that it has led to the most delicate exjier meiits, and in- duced some even to suppose it the sole source of vegetation. A curious instance has been frequently pub- lished, of a wiiiow inserted in a leaden vessel with a given quantity of earth, and supplied constantly with water ; the willow thrived and acquired great growth and weight in a few the soil, it appeared no sensible diminution had taken place. It is observed by an ingenious writer,* to whom agricultural science is much indebted, " That although the mode in which manures operate on soils is not so obvious to the senses as to be fully understood, there are three ways in which water promotes their improvemeiil. It preserves a favorable degree of temperature ; feeds by conveying nourishing substances ; and so as a pure element, it is beneficial." To prove that water enters largely into the compo- sition of vegetables, and is thus advantageous, the same writer observes : — " That plants cut green, and afterwards dried, lusc by e.xsicca- tion 66 to 70 parts out of lud." The loss of weight by drying will be fount! in this country to vary very essentially from what takes place in Scotland, especially as it respects different plants. But our hav is of ne- cessity made lighter by the heat ot" our sum- mer, as well as for the purpose of its being stowed in large bodies and tight barns. It should be premised, that the time of cut- ting the several grasses, kc. in the following statement was the same as is usually practised by husbandmen in our State. Of 100 lbs. of vegetables cured in 182C, the product was as follows, viz. 100 lbs. of Green white clover, gave of hay 17 1-2 lbs. 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 of Red do. of Herds' Grass, of Fresh Meadow, of Salt Gra!s, gave gave gave gave 27 1-2 40 38 39 of Mixed, 2d crop on Eug. Rowan, 18 3-4 " of Corn Stalks, gave 23 " of do. cut in milk with the ear, 25 " It is to be observed, that the weight will vary from ripeness, and many other causes, such as wetness of season, shade, thickness of growth, &c. 1 am, Sir. with respect, vouis, ' JOHN WElLk?. Dorchester, Oct. 1822. * Sir John Sinclair. To prevent polished Hardieare and Cutlery from taking Rust. Case-knives, snuffers, watch-chains, and other small articles made of steel, may be preserved from rust, by being carefully wiped after use, and then wrapped in coarse brown paper, the virtue of which is such, that all hardware goods from Sheffield, Birmingham, &c. are always wrapped in the same. To clear Iron, from Rxist. Pound some glass to fine powder, and having nailed >ome strong linen or woollen cloth upon a boaril, lay upon it a strong coat of gum water, and silt thereon some of your powdered glass, and le( it dry ; repeat this operation three times, and when the last covering of powdered glass is dry, you may easily rub oil' the rust from iron utensils, with the cloth thus prepared. Some profane people would say, if was a re- flection upon creation, that of all living things, only tivo could be named which would teniaiu true to us while in a stale of poverty, viz: a dog, ai'd a constable — as the former is never known to desert a human bring even in the lowest state of degradation and misery, so the laiter with equal pertinacity $dcks to a man in ad'jersity — Metrupolitan. 236 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. AN ADDRESS Read on October 9th, 13-22, at Hallowell, before the Agricultural Society of Maine, on the dny of its An- nual Meeting, and after the Agricultural Exhibition of the year had taken place : — by WlLLIAJl LADD, Esq. of Mvtcl. When we look around on mankind, and con- template on the great yarietj' of occupations in which they are busily engaged, in their eager search at'ier happiness ; we naturally inquire, which, of all these various pursuits, is best adapted to obtain the desired end? And when we consider man as a social being, our inquiry will not end in his individual happiness 5 but will be extended to the society, the nation, and finally to the whole race, of which he is a mem- ber. If we trace back the history of almost any nation, we shall find it originating in the savage or hunter state, in which inan wages continual war with savage beasts, and men more savage still ; and lives in a state of perpetual alarm or aggression, without any regular means of sup- port ; sometimes gorged with his prey, but more frequently pinched with hunger ; without natural affection ; and destroying his aged pa- rent* and helpless infants when they become burlhenfome to him. In the first stage towards civilization, we find families and tribes of wandering shepherds, without any fixed habitation or bounds of landed property : without any law but force ; among whom bread is a luxury, and wine unknown ;— who are ignorant of almost all the arts and sci- ences ; and strangers to most of those enjoy- ments which make life desirable. Let the visionary sophist who delights to wage war against common sense ; lei the fantas- tic poet whose food is fiction, eulogize the hun- ter and the shepherd state, as the gold and sil- ver ages of the world : Though we may be amused with the ingenuity of arguments which do not convince us, and pleased with brilliant, but false coloring, which does not deceive us ; and though we do not feel uneasy at encomiums on characters which we do not envy, yet the generality of mankind allow, that we are never happy until the '• bounds of our habitation" are established by known laws, and we return to the employment of our first parents in Paradise. We have not time to compare the pursuit of agriculture with those occupations, which ne- cessity or ambition induce others to embrace: but to prove ils superiority, we refer to the practice of the most enlightened nations, in which we find a great majority of the people actually engaged in husbandry ; and those who have been prevented by necessity, real or im- aginary, fly to it as soon as they have obtained a competency ; and if it be not so generally the case with the ambitious, it is because ambition is more insatiable than avarice. What occupation is se healthy, so innocent, so delightful, so truly honorable, so independent on man, so (lependant on God?— What so produc- tive of national wealth, population, military strength, general knowledge, equal fortunes, steady habits, and all the essentials of republi- can government ? If it is not so productive of individual wealth it is because it has so many other attractions which induce many to enter on it, who are willing to give up a greater pro- ■St, for the sake of more valuable considerations ; and because the happy circumstances of this section of our country, (where the hardy yeo- man tills his own soil with his own hands, and where slave and peasant are equally unknown,) do not permit any great extension of agricultu- ral capital. jNevertheless, as far as my own ex- perience goes, I am bold to assert, that invest- ments in agriculture have of late years been more productive, than capital employed in commerce ; and it is to be doubted, whether manufactories have been more profitable. — How thankful then ought we to be, that the great Disposer of events has suited the occupation of the bulk of mankind so kindly to their natures! What reason have we not to exclaim, like the Mantuan bard, O happy fanners, Jidwc but know our happiness .' But agriculture is a science to be studied, and husbandry is an art to be learned. As well may we expect to be able merchants, or expert ma- riners, without diligent application to the nec- essary studies, as to be successful farmers, while we wholly neglect the theory and but negligent- ly attend to the practice of .^gricultu^e. Our mistakes are not so immediately obvious, as those of the merchant and shipmaster ; for hap- pily we may sleep away the night, reckless of protested bills or latent rocks; but the eiTcct of our errors is no less certain in the end. View the snug and comfortable mansion, surrounded by well filled barn.s and durable fences ; the abode of plenty, peace, and happiness; and con- trast it with that slab covered hovel, where old hats and rags out number the panes of shingles and broken glass ; the abode of want, discord, and misery ; surrounded by fenceless fields, and a doorless barn. The masters of both these tenements, came together into this State ; each with an axe on his shoulder, but not a cent in his pocket ; equal in health and bodily strength and laborious habits, and in advantages of soil ; but unequal in discernment and knowledge. — The one has already paid for his farm, and set- tled many of his children ; while the other owes twice as much as u'hen he felled the first tree; and is in a manner the servant of his richer neighbor, i'or " knowledge is power." Nor is the advantage of agricultural knowl- edge more obvious in individuals, than in na- tions. Look at the land of our forefathers, whose princes and nobles have delighted in the cultivation ofthe soil ; and whose late monarch «as one of the most able and successful farmers in his kingdom. Contemplate their Board of Agriculture, their Agricultural Societies, their •Agricultural Surveys, their periodical Agricultu- ral Publicatious, their expeditions to every quarter of the globe in search after unknown or untried plants. See their philosophers aiding and emulating their statesmen, and adapting chemistry aud other sciences to the purposes of rural economy. Think of their exploring the bowels of the earth for minerals, to add ver- dure to the surface — ol their draining morasses and irrigating hills — now boring their drains, like moles underground — and then heaping ihe top soil into ridges and beds — and not only cleansing their cities to fatten their fields — but, for manure, importing from the continent whole cargoes of bones, many of them doubtless hu- man— so that perhaps ere long, the myriads thai (ell at Waterloo, may sprout up like the armv of Cadmus, on British fields, and give bread to their conquerors. Nor has the result been unequal to the paini but has exceeded the most sanguine expecti tions. The progress of England in affriculturi knowledge has been so rapid, that the produc tions of the soil are more than quadruple whL they were under the boasted reign of Elizabetl — and very far exceed the produce of her gi gantic commerce, her innumerable manufac turcs, her fathomless mines, and her productivi fisheries, all added together.* Now for a contrast : turn your eyes to a sistc kingdom, a neighboring island, blessed with as good a soil and climate. But the proprietors o the land have neglected its cultivation, whil they have been rioting on luxuries abroad. Her peasantry have been uninslructed and undi- reeled ; each one tilling a few acres of ground, instead of many laboring under the direction 0 one intelligent man, as in England. — I span you the disgusting detail of the consequences ; but you cannot be ignorant of the fact, thai thousands of Irish peasants have this very last summer died of absolute starvation ; while the granaries of (he English farmers have been overllowing, so that they have not had " where to bestow their goods ;" and this, without any very unusual failure in one country, or abun- dance in the other. I grant that much of this distress is owing to political oppression ; but it is more owing to the low state of agricultural knowfinige, and the neglect of rural economy. Yet, Gentlemen, do not think, that, though the English farmer pays a rent greater than the average fee simple of our farms, and a bur- thensome tax, and oppressive tithes, and high- er wages of labor, than any other farmers in Europe, and yet often acquires a princely for- tune ; that therefore I would hold up his prac- tice, as an example for us blindly to follow. By no means. The circumctancec of tho tn-o COUQ- tries being very ditferent, the practice must be as ditfercut. Though from him we may Icam the great utility of agricultural knowledge, and the general theory of husbandry : Our practice must conform to our circumstances; and it is ia very few instances of detail, that we can success- fully imitate his. Circumscribed by the ocean and abounding in population, the rent of their land is necessarily high ; a;Hl when compared wtih ours, the wages of (heir labor is proportion- ably low : while we are bounded by endless for- ests and possess extensive tracts of'the finest soil the world can boast of; our population is thin, our labor high, and our land cheap ; the crop of- ten costing more than the field it grows on, and worth double its value. It is obvious therefore that in England, the cost and consequent price of an agricultural commodity, must chiefly de- pend on the rent of land ; as more is paid for rent than for labor. But in this country the cost must chiefly depend on the price of labor; as more is paid lor labor than rent ; rent, labor, and profit of stock, making in all countries the whole coirt of an article. For these reasons, articles which require much labor, are cheaper in England than here ; and practices which are *Notwith5t;inding the destructive wars in which G. Britain has latily bi en engaged, her population ha? in- creased in 20 yiars,(viz. from IBOO to 1820) not less than thrt f and a half luiilions. Horses and other usrfi.l an- imals have also so much increased, that some individu- al cartiers now own more horses, than Quceu Elizabeth rould muster, when in danger of invasion from the Spanish armada. This amazing increase cau only be attributed to iiaprovcmmts iu agriculture. NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 237 "Ibeneficial there, are unprofitable here ; their * abject being to save rent, ours to save labor. "I Itdoes not so much concern us to know how '" much we can get from an acre, where land is ■0 cheap, as how much we can get for a day's '^ work where labor is so dear. The farmer has P much more need than the merchant, to keep a * {^oUt and loss account, in all his transactions ; ''• >od it is chiefly for want of it that many young and theoretic farmers find agriculture unprolit- able, and many of the old and experienced nev- er abandon the habits of their ancestors, how- ever injurious. — But no wise man will implicit- ly adopt the opinion of another, if he can read- ily test its truth by his own experience. Though the great principles of agriculture must remain immutable, so long as God shall please to uphold the present order of nature; /et it must be obvious, that our local situation ■enders the practical knowledge of others of )ut little use to us. It is necessary that we ihould make experiments for ourselves, and iccurately ascertain tho.=e facts, which suit our )articular situation. — We should ascertain, for nstance, whether we have any natural manures »hich we can profitably apply to our lands; vhether our lime be of a salutary or injurious |uality; to what soil it is suitable, and to what irejudicial ; in what quantities it should be used ; —whether we have marie or other like sub- tances ; what soils are most in want of plaister, md, gravel, clay, (raw or burnt,) swamp muck, eat-ashes, Lc. : whether compost or raw ma- ures be in the end most profitable ; in what ircumstances surface and under ground drain- ig and irrigation, will pay the expense; "hether woad, madder, and other dying drugs, ! well as new roots, grains and grasses, will »y the expense of cultivatioa ; which breed :' homed cattle are most inclined to fat, which milk, and which is best for labor. We want to know the comparative raerit of le different breeds of horses, sheep, and hogs ; je comparative ralue of succulent roots, rains, grasses, and esculent vegetables ; and ■n thousand other things. Now though we may et much light on these subjects from foreign ublications, yet we ought to know them from ur own actual experiments : for though the real Sir Humphrey Davy, and the French hemists, have ably analyzed most of the sub- sets of the mineral and vegetable kingdoms ; et it sometimes happens, that from some un- nown cause, actual experiments in agriculture, 0 not exactly agree with the chemical theory, nd therefore experience must be the only jre guide. This experience we want; and ills is the object of our society. But how shall this great and important ob- jct be obtained ? Shall we trust it to the un- onnected exertions of insulated individuals ? :''rue, there have been many who have given 3 the subject, a great part of their time and ilents, and are worthy the respect and hom- ge of mankind ; for the man who adds to our reductions one new plant ; to our manures Be new article ; who corrects one error, or ments one machine, hy which the labor now jierformed by rational beings may be transfor- jed to the brute creation and the elements ; lonfers a greater benefit on his race, than all he conquerors who have manured the world .ith blood, from Nimrod to Napoleon. When len shall cease to honor their destroyers, and hall be grateful to their benefactors, the name of many a rural Socrates shall be rescued from obscurity; while the name of those scourges of mankind, shall rot in oblivion, or only be re- membered to be execrated. " Oil ; spring to light, auspicious day," when the instruments of war shall be con- verted into the implements of husbandry, and mankind shall form one great agricultural so- ciety. But the joyful anticipation of that glo- rious period, which certainly and perhaps soon will arrive, has hurried me frotn my subject. — I ask again ; shall we trust the interests of ag- riculture and its improvement, to individual exertion? Let us remember that though the duration of man's life, may be sufficient for the conquest of the world, it is not long enough for the acquisition of the art of husbandry : and in our present situation we have hardly any means whereby the experience of one may beiictil another or descend to posterity. Now, when a man dies, his knowledge and experi- ence die with him; and all he leaves as a me- morial, is his example in a narrow circle, and his well cultivated farm ; which in one or two generations degenerates to the common level. Search now, and see, if you can find, the farm of Cincinnatus, or of Cato the censor. Alas! the same tide of war has overwhelmed and swept away, as "with the besom of deslrnction," both the Cottage of Virgil and the Villa of Cicero. In vain do we expect great improvement to be de- rived from the labors of solitary individuals ; but were we as desirous of imitating the example of Frederic of Prussia, in his exertions to promote the agricultural interests of his kingdom, as we are to admire his military fame ; it would be to our advantage. He deserves to be called Great, not because he wasted the fields of oth- er kingdoms, but because he improved his own; tiOt because he improved military tactics, but because he founded a professorship of rural economy at his university of Halle. We have indeed a grand national academy in which our youth are instructed in the art of making widows and orphans ; but we have no academy where they may learn to make their country great and happy by the successful cultivation of the soil. Could it be, that each of our states would endow a professorship of agriculture and the useful arts, iu one of their Colleges, with a farm carried on at the public expense and for the public benefit; it would be perhaps the best way to acquire and disseminate this agri- cultural knowledge. Some of our universities have already a botanic garden ; may we not hope, that, in time, they may enlarge their sphere. The next best, and indeed the only other feasible plan, for the improvement of agricul- tural knowledge, is the establishment of ^'Igri- cultural Societies. What is impossible for indi- viduals, may be practicable by associations. The immense benefit they have been to all countries where they have for any length of time been established, is too apparent to be dwelt on. The great improvement of Eng- land ig chiefly owing to her societies. Hardly one of the United States is without one. The most enlightened of our citizens give them their support. Our farmers, generally circum scribed in their means, are not able to make expensive experiments, and are not much giv- en to innovation ; nor is it perfectly fair that one 1 man should be at the whole expensej and the whole community reap the benefit. It is there- fore necessary, that some means should bo used to stimulate our agriculturalists to make ex- periments ; and to induce them by pecuniary and honorary rewards, to make known the re- sults. For this purpose we have assembled this day, where we can view the most excel- lent of the productions of the soil, decide on their merits and rewards, and learn the manner in which they were produced ; that retuming home, we may practice the same, and make it known to our neighbors. But some a-sert that many of the objects of the Society appear to them frivolous and un- profitable. So did to others the introduction of the potatoe, the turnip and the carrot, whicli have made so great a revolution in the agricul- ture of England. — So now perhaps appears, to some, the introduction of the ruta-baga, mangel- wurtzel, woad, madder, and merino sheep. But I answer, that if we succeed in but one object in a hundred, which we undertake, it may be worth to the commonwealth a hundred times all our expense and labor. We most of us remem- ber when the cotton-plant was a stranger in the United States — now it produces one of our greatest articles of export. Rice was thrown on our shores by the wreck of a vessel from Africa, and first planted by the floods; and indi- go, perhaps, was introduced in some way as precarious ; and the time may come when the wool, grain and woad of Maine, may rival the cotton, rice and indigo of Georgia ; and even the cultivation of the tea-plant iu this, or some more southern State, may save our silver front being sent to the ends of the earth, for that article of luxury. But our opponents object, that they do not see the effect of our exertions. Do they ex- pect to reap the crop, as soon as the seed is sown? Changes in agriculture are not made in a day. It is but a few years that we have ex- isted ; and in that short time, much agricultural knowledge has been disseminated and turned to actual account. Our breeds of horses and oth- er stock have been improved ; new articles of agriculture have been introduced ; and thresh- ing machines have been invented, which bid fair to rival the cotton-gin in utility ; and we hope soon to present a machine which will so assist the farmer in the preparation of hemp and flax, that we shall have no further need of importations of those articles from Russia. True, we have not done as much as we wish, or expect to do ; — but our means are scanty, while our object is great. We have been dis- appointed in the support and countenance we expected from the State government. For, since we have become independent of old Mas- sachusetts, we seem to have thrown ofl the influence of her good example ; and Maine alone, I believe, of all the Northern States, and perhaps of all the States in the Union, gives no support to Agricultural Societies. Com- merce must have its navy, its ambassadors, and its consuls ; manufactures, their protecting du- ties ; and the military art its public school i while agriculture, the support of all others, is left to the encouragement of the State govern- ments ; and the government of our State neg- lects it. Do our legislators think that we know enough already ; -or that we are too stupid to learn ; or that the soil of Maine is not worth cultivating? Or are we too poor to give aoy 2:^3 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. support to A^TicuItiirnl Societies? Cuve us but one Lundrc(itli part of tlic annual expense.? of military parade, and we shall be satislied. May we not Lope, tliat future legislator? may be more eiiiiglitened, and more careful of the best interests of their constituents ? — Dut if other- wise, g-ontlemen. let us remember that the less is done for ii-i, tiie more ue must do for our- selves ; and should «ve be without the assistance, or even thanks of that public, for whose bene- fit we are laboring; let us nevertheless increase our exertions, and reap the reward in our own bosoms.* * The legislature of Xew York with Us accustomed tvisdom and liberulity, has cstabli-lictl a Board of ^Oi;- ricullitre, which does by aiithorily what (he i?tate Ag- ricultural Society of .Vlaine has attempttd to do by vnhintary exertions. Tliis lioard is authorised to tx- puidon ccrtaiu conditions J;10, 1*.^ nnniw(/.v in premi- ums, &c. $1000 annually in seeds and "tlicr neces- sary expenses, and about $1000 in publishing annual- ly a volume of memoirs on agricultural subjects — iu nil $1-2, 17j annually; besides a sum of fuOO given for the foundation of an agricultural library. This is done in a state with about four times our population, while our State has refused a ft/is/e dolhr (or aiding auy agricnllural purposes whatever. [.See Jlcls oj tBi A'eii-)'ork hgistalurt for 1819 and ItiiO, which are in force air ijcars.] From the Eostou Daily Advertiser. JiGRlCULTUR.'iL I.VTF.LLIGF.XCE. Dr. T. W. Harris, of Milton, son of the Rev. Or. Harris, of Dorchester, has turned his atten- tion to the Caterpillar, which has been so de- structive to the salt marshes in this vicinity for many years past, and has made a communica- tion on that subject to the Massachusetts Socie- ty for promoting Agriculture, which was so sat- islactory to them, a-i well on account of the im- portance of the subject, as the careful, and judicious, and accurate manner in which the investigation was conducted, that the Trustees voted to publish the essay, and to grant to Dr. Harris the Society's gold medal ot the value of thirty dollars. We shall not attempt an analysis of his essay, as it will appear at large in the Journal of the Society, in June next. The first appearance of the perfect insect, the moth. Dr. Harris states to be from the 1st to the 20th of June ; and the Caterpillars attain their greatest size about the 1st of August. The most im- portant points of his communication to practi- cal farmers, who have sutVcred so severely from this scourge, are the preventive remedies, which seemed to the Trustees so impoitant, as to re- quire an immediate notice, in order, that at- tempts might be made during the ensuing sea- son, before the publication of theirnext number. The saving of one crop of salt hay would be of great importance to the country bordering on the ocean. I was therefore instructed to pay this just tribute to the zeal and industry of Dr. Harris, and to publish the following reconmien- dations suggested by him for the destruction, (or at least with the hope of checking the rava- ges,) of this insect. Dr. Harris says, '• From observation, and experience, I would recommend the following plan, by which we may lessen the evils we sutler from this enemy. " First to cut the grass corly in Jul if — and sec- ondly to hum over the marshes in March. " in defence of carli/ mnx.ing, it may be said, that it is the uiily -ui-uy by which the crop may be saved from those meadows where the cater- pillars have multiplied to an extent. The pre- ceding history furnishes the data from which to calculate the best time for effecling this pur- pose. " We have seen that the Caterpillar is hatch- ed about the 20th of June, and that its rava- ges are continued seven ■weeks. If then the meadows, in our vicinity, are mowed about the 4th of •I'uly, the Caterpillars, being small and feeble, will be deprived of their means of nour- ishment, and being unable to wander far, will die before the crop is gathered in. By the process of making the hay most of the succu- lent juices are evaporated, and the hay becomes so dry and hard as to resist the efforts of these little devourers. Thus we see the black grass (the most valuable) by ripening early is rejec- ted by them, and the crop is saved. " By the practice of late mowing, where the Caterpillars prevail, the crop is diminished, im- mense numbers of Caterpillars and of Grass- hoppers are left to be dispersed upon the up- lands to multiply and increase the existing evil; or are brought in to perish in our barns and slacks, where they communicate a most un- pleasant flavor to the hay, rendering it unpal- atable to our cattle, and occasioning a waste of fodder. Many beneficial effects result from burning over our marshes in March. This has been long practised in New Brunswick, a Brit- ish province, abounding in salt marshes, and is getting into use with us, to the manifest im- provement of the crops. By it, " old fog" is consumed, which becomes more important from early mowing the preceding year. By this means also we destroy innumerable eggs of Cat- erpillars and Grasshoppers laid in the grass the last autumn, and which, if hatched, produce a grcnt increase of our devourincf enemies. " The roots of the grass are not injured by burning the stubble ; on the contrary, they are fertilized by the ashes." Such are the simple, intelligible, and ration- al suggestions of Dr. Harris — so simple and so rational, and so easy of execution, that we should hope that many, if not all owners of salt marshes, so infested, will be induced to try them. They need not reject the suggestion, because it may be said to savour of book farm- ing, nor need they fear the ridicule which is attempted to be thrown, by one of our brother farmers in the western counties, on " gentle- men farmers," of which he himself happens to be one of the nczvest recruits. Truth may come from scientific research. The improve- ments which have been made in other arts and other sciences, have been chiefly derived from these sources, and we hope Agriculture is not yet prepared to reject the aid of Science, nor to disdain the efforts which have been made by such men as Washington, Jefferson, Sinclair, Davy, and a thousand others, although they may have been facetiously called " gentlemen farmers." Per order J. LOWELL, Corresponding SecV)/ Mass. Jig. Society. From the Newburyport Herald of Tuesday. The meeting of the Essex Agricultural Socie- ty took place at Hamilton yesterd.ay according to appointment of the Trustees. — The meeting was very poorly attended from this part of the county ; but cue gentleman present has oblig- pri oil ingly furnished us with an account of the ceedings of the Society. The following gentlemen were chosen cers for the ensuing year, to wit : PRESIDENT. Hon. Timothy Pickering, Salem. VICE PKESIDENTS. John Heard, Ipswich, Ichabod Tucker, Salem, Or. Ueuj. Parker, Bradford, Joshua Carter, Newburv TREASURER. Benjamin R. Nichols, Salem. con. & REC. SECRETART. John W. Proctor, Uanvers. TRrSTEES. Isa Andrews, Ipswich ; William Pierce, Gloucesle Hoi art Clark, Audover ; Paul Kent, Newbury ; Dav Emery, do. ; Aaron Perley, Uoxford ; Daniel Putna) Daavers; Temple Cutler, Hamilton; Israel Fost( Manchester ; Thomas Stcpheas, Keverly ; Edmui Uartk tt, Newburyport ; John Adams, Andover : Da iel Adams, Newbury ; James Gardner, Lynn ; Elip altt Chaplin, Newbury; Fphraim Wildes, Topsfiel Daniel Fuller, Middleton ; Nathan Felton, Danver William Heed, Marblehead ; Jesse Putnam, Danver Moses Newell, AVest Newbury ; Benjamin W, Crow inshield, Salem; J. W. Duncan, Haverhill; Da? Cummings, Salem. It was resolved to amend the constitution that there shall be but one stated meeting a nually, at which the officers of the socle shall be chosen, and all other matters requirii the agency of the Society, shall be transacte and the stated meeting shall be in autumn, the time and place of the public Exhibition. It was also voted on account of the state the funds of the Society, to omit the next it ular Exhibition. According to this arrangement there will a meeting of the Society in October next (t place to be appointed by the Trustees) for t transaction of business, choice of officers, i but no F.Tfhibitinr. THE FARMER. BOSTON .—SATURDAY, FEB. 22, 1823. COMPLETE FILES OF THE N. E. FARMER The Subscribers and Patrons of the New Engl; Farmer are respectfully informed, that the Proprit having reprinted a number of the first impressions his paper, complete sets, from its commencementB>S! August last, may now be had, by application at Farmer Office, Rogers' Buildings, Congress Street. Those who may be disposed to subscribe, will f !^ an advantage in taking the papers from the commen ment. They are printed in a form convenient for bi: iog into a book — are paged — and at the end of a y from the date of the first number, a title page and dex will be furnished gratis to those who take whole volume. Besides, many of the Essays are tinued from one number to another, and may be to greater advantage by having the whole complete If any of our subscribers have not received all tl numbers, tliey will be so good as to forward infori ,,' tion of those which are missing, aad they shall be s ,, ' according to directions. tn ^^ «J 'A Is lit Kf c We hope that Mr. Laud's Address, together the valuable original communications which we bi thi^ honoi; this day to present to our readers, will i der our paper acceptable without the usual quan of editorial matter. We know that it is rather grave cast, and not quite so amusing as a romand jest book, or one of Mr. Mathews' eomic exhibiti< n»j But we are more solicitous to profit than to amuse customers ; and though we may now aud then givi NF:W ENGLAND FARMRll. 239 inecdote, or a raerry article, to seasou our solid diihes, et the mass of our matter must of necessity be of that ;ind of fare which to many literary palates will be dry jid insipid. Although it has been already hinted to 13 that a little more comic spice, attic salt, and other iterary condiments is wanted to give our paper a relish jnong; the gay, the polite, the airy, and the fashiona- " lie, we cannot sacrifice the substantial for the volatile, orget for a moment that utility is our main object, nd that a recipe which may be of value in domestic conomy is of more importance than an anecdote which rfll be read with a broad grin and forgotten. There is a species of mental dissipation, which is carcely less dangerous, because more insidious, than ' (lat which leads a man to the tavern, or even that ;ill more to be dreaded, which allures him to solitary ppling. The kind of dissipation to which we allude [Jrcvents a person's being able to fix a moment's atten- i on on any thing really worth attending to. The vic- ■ m of this frailty wants nothing but light articles, retty paragraphs, neatly turned, with most elegant , hraseology, but — signifying nothing. Those persons ho give way to this weakness, have not patience ; lough to read a whole column in a paper devoted to I ly useful topics, or to trace truth through ever so (ijiort a train of reasoning. They are satisfied with hat lies on the surface, and are therefore well denom- e{ ated superficial characters. To ladies and gentlemen ' this description, we beg leave to observe that the ghest compliment they can bestow upon our paper, ould be some expression of tlieir disapprobation. We » all be pretty sure of the approval of the wise, if we id we are honored with the censure of the olhcrwise. 'e would not, however, be understood to be inimical wit, anecdote, or innocent hilarity, properly intro- ' icefl, aud relating to proper subjects. But the lite- ry taste which can be pleased with nothing but the >nderfu1 or the Indicrnus, tplp« of terror, or corrusca- ms of wit, is as much depraved as the palate which n be satisfied with nothing but honey and spices. TO CORRESPONDENTS. We have been requested to republish certain arlr- es, and furnish information upon various topics con- cted with agriculture in several of its branches. We all comply with these solicitations as far and as fast possible. We hope in our next to give an article I the best mode of reclaiming land from the sea, drain- g salt marshes, &c. We shall soon republish some ng articles on improving the breeds of cattle, from .e American Farmer. Some other subjects, to which ir attention has been turned by request, are not for- )tten, but merely deferred for the sake of availing irselves of time to consider, and means to investigate le topics we are requested to discuss. FARMER SUMMARY OF NEWS. CONGRESS. — Nothing of great moment appears to : going on at Washington in the halls of legislation. — Ir. Mercer presented a resolution, authorizing and re- aesting the President to open negotiations with Euro- an powers for the abolition of the slave trade, and 8 denunciation as piracy by the civilized world. — he New Tariff bill is yet on the legislative anvil, and hether it will assume any permanent and current lape this season is a matter of doubt. FOREIGN.— Papers from Calcutta have been re- eved by a late arrival at Salem, as late as the 9th of ovember. Many parts of India have suffered by orms and inundations. Whole villages have been sstroyed, and three fourths of the city of Surat were rerwhelmed with water; a great number of cattle, id about one thousand houses were swept entirely way. In the city of Boorhanipoor, 2000 houses were eatroyedj and a great niunber more damaged. Tlie river Ncrbudd rose thirty feet above its ordinary level in thirty-six hours, and iunndated a region of two hun- dred miles in extent — sweeping men, cattle, and the products of the earth to one common destruction. Advices from Mexico as late as Dec. 'JOth, have been received at New York. By these we learn that the Emperor Iturbide having determined to capture the castle of St. Johns, had made some movements for that purpose ; but his progress was arrested by the republican army, under Generals Lopez and Victoria, and several hundred of his men have deserted him and fled to the republican standard. The great question of peace or war between France and Spain was not decided at the date of our last in- telligence from Europe. The King of France, if not inclined to peace, seems, at least, not disposed to be in a hurry in his appeal to arms. The Duke of Mont- morency, being vexed at the pacific or cautious policy of his Majesty, resigned his office of Minister, and his resignation appears to have been cordially accepted. A note, however, has been sent to the French Minister at Madrid, the Count De La Garde, directing him to inform the Spanish government that the government of France is "intimately united with its allies in the firm resolution to repel, by every means, revolutionary prin- ciples and movements," Sec. The Russian Minister, M. Pozzo de Borgo, is said to have raised his voice for war, and to be very indignant because the French Manifesto is not more peremptory and warlike. Spain, however, does not appear to be intimidated, but is making every exertion to repel force by force. Pirates continue their depredations on American commerce. Capt. Davis, commander of the ship Es- sex, from Gloucester, was chased and plundered by thein. His vessel and cargo were condemned in a mock trial, as a good prize to the pirates. The brig Adeline, Capt. Kempton, of BostoB, has been sent into Porto Piico by those plunderers, and condemned as their lawful prize. A new steam vessel is said to be preparing on the Thames, and is intended for Calcutta. Her engine and boiler occupy only one fifth of the usual space. The furnace consumes its own smoke ; and will per- form with one bushel, what formerly took one chaldron of coals ; her boiler is so constructed as to return its ovv-n steam, without one particle escaping, so that when once filled, it is enough for the voyage, which it is cal- culated she will perform in 30 or 40 days. Our famous countryman Perkiks is the inventor. DOMESTIC. — Commodore Porter's squadron against the pirates is said to be ready to commence its opera- tions, and, says the Norfolk Herald, "it is devoutly to be wished that the sword drawn in this righteous cause may not be returned to its sca'.ibard until the just man- date of the nation to '■'■ exterminatt the pirate throng'''' shall be fully executed." A cotton and woollen manufactory at Meredith, N. H. owned by Mr. D. Avery, was burnt on the 12th inst. — Seven young women were in an upper story at the time, and being precluded other means of escape, six of them leaped from the windows, a distance of about 30 feet, and were all severely injured. The other was taken from a small window, by means of a ladder, al- most suffocated. Loss estimated at from 25 to 30,000 dollars — of which only $4000 were insured. The Saratoga Sentinel states that the Small Pox is raging to an alarming degree at Stillwater (N. Y.) and is supposed to have reached some of the adjoining towns. A general inoculation of the kine pox, among those who are liable to receive the small pox, is said to be going forward. The house of Mr. John Kaufman, in York, Pa. was lately entered by three robbers, who tied the man, and ransacked his premises for plunder, but found only about ten dollars, and a silver watch, with which they made off — without discovering 1000 dollars in specie, which Mr. K. the next day lodged in York bank. A correspondent of the N. Y. Commercial Adverti- ser, at Washington, under date of February 9, writes, that Langdon Cheeves, Esq. and a gentleman from N. Carolina, had been nominated Commissioners, under the late convention to settle claims relative to slaves taken away by the British, at the close «f the late war. A splendid dinner was given to Commodore Porter, at Norfolk, a few days since. Captain Warington pre- sided, assisted by captains Finch and Grayson, ae Vice Presidents. Stephen Girard, Esq. of Philad. has lent $'2G0,t)£0 to the president and managers of the Schuylkill Navi- gation Company, for the purpose of completing certain contemplated miprovemeuts in the navigation on the river Schuylkill. Three nun, near Grccnsbush, Penn. being employed in boring the earth for salt water, a flame burst frcra the well and burnt them so badly that their lives were considered to be in danger. A Moor, by the name of Garrow, lately died at Georgetown, Columbia, aged 135 years. A number of cattle, swine, and one horse, have late- ly died, suddenly, on Long Island, jupposed of Hydro- phobia. A black girl has also been Lillin. A bull, two years old last April, raised by Dariua Matthewson, Esq. of Pomfret, Con. was slaughtered on the SSth ult. the weight of which, says a correspon- dent of the New London Advocate, was as follows : — Hind quarters 332 — fore quarters 464 — hide 128 — tal- low 48. Total 102-2 lbs. Can(rh. — A petition has been presented to the Legis- lature of Pennsylvania, by sundry inhabitants of the western part of that State, stating the practicability of connecting the waters of Lake Erie with that of Ohio river, by cutting a Canal of 4 miles from the creek Ashtabula to the Shenango, in Crawford county, and praying that a company may be incorporated v.ith a capital of $15,000, for' the purpose of making said Canal. PRICES OF COUNTRY PRODUCE, 5:c. [Revised and corrected every Friday.] ASHES, pot, 1st qual. . . . ptail do BEANS, white, BEEF, mess, 200 cwt. . . . cargo, No. 1 " No. 2 BUTTER, inspect. 1st qual. . " 2d qual. . small kegs, family, CHEESF., new milk .... FLAX FLAX SEED FLOUR, Baltimore, superfine, Genessee .... Rye, best .... GRAIN, Rye ..... . Com Barley Oals HOGS' LARD, Ist sort . . HOPS, No. 1, LIME, OIL, Linseed, American . . PLAISTER PARIS .... PORK, Navy Mess .... Bone Middlings . . . Cargo, No. 1, . . . Cargo, No. 2, . . . SEEDS, Herd's Grass . . • Clover AVOOL, Merino, full blood,washed do. do. unwashed do. 3-4 washed do. 1-2 do. Kative .... do. Pulled, Lamb's, 1st sort do. Spinning, 1st sort PROnSIO.Y MARKET. BEEF, best pieces . . . . PORK, fresh VEAL, MUTTON POULTRY, BUTTER, keg & tub ... lump, best . . . EGGS, MEAL, Rye, hidiaa, POTATOES, ....... CIDER, liquor, .... HAY, best, . . , , FROM TO D. C. D. C. ton. 145 00 148 00 155 on 157 50 bush 90 1 OO bbl. 9 50 10 00 8 5(1 9 00 7 00 7 50 lb. 14 15 iv 13 16 17 7 9 8 9 busb 1 00 1 10 bbl. 7 25 7 50 7 50 4 25 4 50 bush ili 90 "^Cl 75 65 70 45 48 lb. 9 10 11 13 cask 1 25 1 50 gal. 65 70 ton. 3 0(1 3 50 bbl. 12 00 12 50 14 5(: 15 00 12 00 12 50 11 00 11 50 bush 2 25 2 50 lb. 8 9 60 68 55 58 47 50 44 46 3- 40 56 68 47 50 lb. 8 10 5 6 6 8 3 7 »» S 16 17 20 23 doz. 23 25 bush 5o 80 «S 37 bbl. 1 50 ton. 22 eo 24<» 240 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. BV T. C. FESSESDEK. " A merry heart doeth good like a medicine.''' With mirth let us cherish our hearts, 'Tis a precept by Solomon given, And cheerfulness surely imparts The temper best fitted for heaven. Among; all the numberless ways Ey which folly contrives to be wrong, There is none which more weakness displays Than wearing a visage too long. Th' Omnipotent Donor designs That the gifts of His grace be enjoy'c! ; Hence, he that forever repines. Had better be better eraploy'd. AVhen first was created our race, This earth for man's mansion was given, And shall he find fault with the place To which hc"s allotted by heav'n ? 'Tis a thing, I believe, understood, In which every sect is agreed, This earth was declar'd to be good, And so in the Bible we read. <• Under Providence, tenants at will, A fine habitation we hold ; For us to be murmuring still Is wicked, ungrateful and bold. Yet well-meaning people I've seen. Who think true religion is shown By a sort of a woe-begone mein. And a whining, conventicle tone. 'Tis true, there's a season to mourn, As Solomon says — nt'ertheless Our griefs should be manfully borne. And 'tis folly to cherish distress. A train of diseases await On a heart that forever is sad. And some, from a sorrowing state, Become irretrievably mad. That religion can never be true, Which bows its disciples to eartli, For he that has heav'n in his view, Has the best of all titles to mirth. With mirth then we'll cherish our hearts, 'Tis a mandate by Solomon given, For cheerfulness surely imparts The temper best fitted for heaven. Terrify and teaze no person, not even your most intimate friends, by fitlse reports, vexatious jokes, or any thing v^hich can give them a mo- ment's uneasiness. There are unpleasant reali- ties enough in this world, v\'ithout adding un- necessary and imaginary evils. Pleasure is very seldom found where it is sought. Our brightest blazes of gladness are commonly kindled by unexpected sparks. The flowers that scatter the sweetest odours in the path of life, generally grow without culture, from seeds sown by chance. Plato has very sagaciously observed, •' that of all the shipwrecks in which the human un- derstanding is liable on the sea of ratiocination, the most common is that of splitting on the rock of false comparison, or similitudes." A noted tippler was asked if he would drink a gill of rum, mixed in any m.inner that might be i)rescribed ? He agreed to swallow it. It was then mixed with a gallon of water, which he soon drunk for the sake of the spirit. We are frequently reminded of this, when we hear a man speak a long time to deliver an idea which might be conveyed in a few words. soon be published in London, to which City, w understand, he purposes, in the course of th next summer, proceeding. We have seen a stone the doctor extract on the 18th inst. ; it weighs (independently numerous fragments,) seven hundred and ninet eight grains ; and its circumference measured two opposite directions, five inches. The p tient was well on the third day. Montreal paper. SELECTED loa THE NEW E.\GL.\M) FARMER. A man of science can do greater things in his closet than a general at the head of an army, or a king with the physical force of a nation at his control. Men of buHlc arc not men of business. — There is a kind of men who may be classed under the name of bustlers, whose business keeps them hi constant motion, but whose motion ahcays eludiLs their business. They never can stand still, be- cause they are wanted in some other place, and are wanted in many places because they can stay in none. Tiicro is an old maxim " Take care of the pence, and the pounds will take care of them- selves." But there are some who save pence and throw away pounds. They will higgle with a huckster half an hour for half a cent, and yri squander away thousands of dollars in vain pa- rade. Such men, and women too, arc truly ■* penny wise and pound foolish.'^ February. — This is a cold short month of short days ; yet it must not pass unimproved. Far- mers should not be idle, though they can nei- ther sow nor reap. Your horses, cattle, sheep and hogs, demand unwearied attention. Do not trust the boys to see wholly to them. Care should be taken that they are all fed and water- ed in proper season. Do not lie in bed too late and keep them from their morning meal ; nor stay at the tavern or store till a late hour, and keep them from their evening allowance. Dry stables will save much hay. Now draw you a large woodpile, and thrash your grain before the vermin devour it. How go your schools? Pa- rents should visit them often, and encourgae their children; and in these long evenings hear them recite at home. Take up, too, some use- ful paper; or Rollin's, Mosheim's, or Miker's history. — Christian Almanack. On the 12th of November, a farmer's wif of the name of Weischwall, at Wilkischken, Prussia, poisoned, with arsenic, her daug'Btt« ter, a girl of about 15 years of age, for fears! would make it known that her mother sto some geese. After the crime was discovere she confessed that, two years ago she despatch* Et her father-in-law in the same manner, to inhe it the property sooner; and, five months ag the husband of her eldest daughter, in order marry her to a richer man. Important Improvement in Surgery. — Theybc- mirfoi/c operation of Lithotomy (or the extrac- tion of Urinary Calciila) is now reduced to a de- gree of simplicity, almost incredible, by an in- vention of W. W. Sleighs, Esq. M. R. C. .S. L. and Lecturer in this City, on Anatomy, Physiol- ogy and Surgery. We omit mentioning- partic- ulars, except the following prominent feature? in it, viz. that the skin is not touched with a knife ; that the actual operation does not occupy the eighth of a minute ; and (hat it is attended with little if any more danger or pain, than blcedinv in the arm. Thus an operation considered by the most celebrated men of the day, as fraught with the most eminent peril, and excruciating suffering, will be rendered a.= simple as venesec- tion. We further learn, that the operation as originally conceived by him, was liable to man} dilhculties, all which have been effeclually ob- viated by certain measures devised by liim du- ring the last twelve months consideration of the subject, and without it cannot be undertaken with safety. The Doctor, has as yet communi- cated these means to no one ; but a treatise will A certain great man, whose purse was som what better furnished than his noddle, emplo ed some workmen to empty a fish pond — whi one of them told him that he had found a peti faction, [a piece of wood changed to the appea ance of stone.] " Have you," said his wise ei ployer, " then put it among the rest of the fish .1 Fat Story. — A certain man who was famo lor the use of certain figures in rhetoric, call hyperboles, or by some -a'hite lies, said that knew a Mr. such an one, who by idleness a high living, at length became so fat, and so he vy, that he would shake an upright two sto house, by voalking oi» tho hoUont. om the marsh to clear itself over the vnlve. The height from low water mark to the top of the trunk, being so much deducted from the depth to which the marsh can be drained by the trunk ; it should therefore, to pass the greatest quantity of water, be made broad in proportion to its depth, so as to allow of a large aperture, and to be placed as low as is compatible with its object and utility. If one trunk should not be adequate to the necessary draining, two or more may be inserted — and as the tides are very irregular, it might be well to place one trunk lower down, on a level with uncommonly low tides, so as to take advantage of the greatest degree of draining, which such tides would aflbrd. At the mouth of each trunk, it may be well to drive down stakes in such a manner as to prevent the en- trance of leaves, chips, and other substances, which might impede the operation of the valve. Mr. Johnstone in his tract upon embankments directs " to ascertain the exact height of the highest flood-tides, so that the embankment be raised at least two feet above what these mav ever approach to. When this is done, the level rty to sixty degrees, ac cording to the force to be opposed, and the na- ture of the materials of which the mound or bank is to be constructed. Where the founda- tion is Arm and solid, the natural earth of the ground, where it is erected, may be employed, and will answer for the body of the bank, and for the inner surface, and where the pressure or force of the water is not very violent, the slope next to it may be formed of the same ma- terials. But in cases where the force of the waves, by exposure to strong winds, operates more violently against the bank, the outer slope should be formed to the depth of two feet, with cl.ay, or the strongest earth that can be conve- niently got ; and that, as well as the top, cov- ered with well swarded turf The inner slope, or t lat next the field or marsh to be reclaimed, shoild be sown with grass seeds. Mr. Johnstone says that " The stuff for form- ing the bank, should be mostly taken from the sid( next the water, that as little of the surface witUn may be broken as possible ; only by what is trken from the back cut or drain, tliat is nec- essay, along the embankment on that side." — An /.merican writer, however, advises in bank- ing igainst a river or creek, to leave " a sufli- cien space between the edge of the river or creek, and bank,'' and to " form the bank by earti taken altogether from within it.'"* Mr. Johistone, however, in advising to take the stuff to form the bank from the side next to the watir is giving directions for embanking against the ica, and the American writer has reference to pcventing the encroachment of water from a ri er or creek. We shall leave this question to bi decided by professional engineers, ob- servng, that all writers on this subject agree that the earth of which the embankment is composed, should not be dug out very near must be taken, and stakes fixed to the proper ,„ ;, u.,* „ ,; i ui „ ° i i , -^ . ., ' . .r h ito it, t)ut a considerable margin shou d be left be embanked ■ - - " "• height along the whole line to Two frames of wood, of the exact form of the bank, should be made, and set up at the distanc of twenty or thirty feet from each other, e.rnctij on the same level, to guide and direct the heigit and dimensions of its construction, and the sane level must be kept throughout the whole liie. This is more requisite than in the case of rivirs that have a descent in their current, and whtre the height of the water is regulated by the hll of the stream ; for the surface of the sea water, being all on a level, the top of the embankment requires to be exactly parallel with the horizon, without a rise or declension in any part." As the pressure of the water upon an em- bankment against the tide, is different from that agfiinst the current of a river, it is not necessary to have it so straight, or of that uniform smooth- ness which is requisite where a running stream is to glide along the side of it. Where the em- bankment crosses any creeks or hollows, it will be necessary to increase the width of the base in proportion to the depth. In forming the bank, the breadth, height, and strength must be made in proportion to the depth and weight of the water it may have to resist ; taking into consideration the exposure to winds and the rapidity of the motion of the tide. As has been before observed, in substance, the more the slope towards tUe water approaches between the excavation formed by digging out the earth, and the mound or embankment which is formed by such earth. No stones should be left near the foot of the embankment ; for the tide forming eddies round them, would soon make holes and break throuo-h the bank. "^ Embankments of the kind under consideration are liable to be destroyed by the waves, as- cending the inclined plane next to the sea, and, «hen the tide ebbs, returning with force, and vashing away materials with which the bank is cimposed. Covering the bank with turf, as be- fre recommended may in many cases answer t e purpose. As a further security, in situations ct great exposure, the most efl'ectual protection iilo drive piles in front of the bank, to break tie force of the waves. An English engineer, M. Beatson, says, " some years ago, when I was 01 duty as an engineer at a fort near Ports- muth, built on a point of land much exposed totlie sea, the waves made such havoc, that the wlls on that side were constantly giving away, al/iough built in a most substantial manner, and h^ing bulwarks of large heavy stones besides, toprotect the foundation : however all would nc do, these bulwarks were soon knocked to pices, and several times the wall itself At American Tarmer, vol. ii, p. 131. NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 2-}:5 length, it was proposed, to drive a number of piles, about forty or fifty yards from the fort.— Those piles were twelve or fit'teen inches in di- ameter, and driven about one diameter trom each other, nearly in a strai!3:ht line parallel to the wall where the waves did so much damage. IThey were driven into the g^round with a pile engine, till perfectly firm: perhaps eight or nine feet deep, and about two feet of the top of them left above the level of high water mark. " Alter this was done the walls received nn farther injury, the space between the piles and the fort being always perlectly smooth, howev- er tempestuous the waves might be without." Where the force of the tide is not very great, by giving the face of the bank a great degree t)f slope, small stones, coarse gravel, or broken trick may be spread on the surface, about a foot thick, which if well beaten down will make a safe and durable fence. Brush wood also, spread on the surface of the bank, and well fas- tened down with hooked pegs, is found to an- swer the purpose well. The wood is liable to decaj', and requires to be frequently renewed ; but when it can be easily procured the expense is not great. In consequence of the counteraction of the sea, all streams spread greatly at their mouths, and the earth they bring down is deposited there, and accumulates into shoals and inlets. — The soil which is thus formed, is invariably ol the richest kind, and the recovery of it becomes of course an object of proportional advantage. The most advisable and effectual plan for this purpose, when it can be executed at an ade- quate expense, is to alter the course of the riv- er altogether, and make it discharge itself at some new point of the coast, where the land that would be occupied by its channel might be Df less value, and its discharge less liable to be :hoked or shifted by the regorging action of the iide. When this has been done, it was found, chat the old channel, in the course of a few years was filled up, and the sea quite excluded. The practicability and economy of embank- ing and draining lands which are usually over flowed by tide water has been evinced by many successful experiments. Holland consists mostly of land reclaimed from the sea ; and in England, many hundreds of thousands of acres have been acquired by means of embanking. There is no doubt but valuable tracts might in the same aaanner be reclaimed along the sea coast of Massachusetts and other maritime parts of the United States. In the Southern states draining and embanking have been successfully under- taken ; and the Messrs. Swartwout's and their associates of New York, have distinguished themselves by a similar enterprize in the vici- nity of that city. We shall give some accounl pf this last mentioned undertaking, extracted from a Report of a Committee of the New Jer- sey Salt Marsh Company, published in the Ame- rican Farmer, vol. ii, p. 15f. "In 1813 and 1814, the Messrs. Stwartwouis purchased the Newark Meadows, and m 1815, commenced the work of their improvement. — They were then in a dreary, sunken and desi- late situation, subject to the inundations of e\ e- ry tide from the river, and totally destitu'e ofj cultivation. Few or no attempts had been niadei in this section of the union, to reclaim salt- marshes of any extent. The most econooiicalj and improved method of draining and embank- ment was not understood, and the price of la- bor much higher than at present. " The former proprietors of these meadows, however, under every discouraging circum- stance, calculated to defeat a great undertaking in its incipient stages, commenced their opera- tions and succeeded, as far as individual enter- prize and capital would permit. They embank- ed two thousand acres, making an embaiikmonl of five and a half miles in length, sixteen feet wide at the base, and five feet high. One thou- sand acres they ditched and drained, making a length of ditch of seventy miles and upwanls. '• There remains to be embanked one tlum- sand acres, and two thousand acres to be ditch- ed and drained. The method of accompli.'*hing this object is at once plain and simple. The tides must be excluded, and the land redeemed from its wetness. It will be necessary to raise an embankment, similar to that already de- scribed, and extend it about five miles, and to ditch that part which remains in a state which precludes cultivation. When this is effected, two thousand acres of most excellent soil will be ready for immediate cultivation, and the re- maining thousand be in a similar state in two years. The whole of the remaining work could be executed in ninety days.''* The Committee then expatiate on the ad- vantages to be derived irom this improvement, trom its location near the great and growing city of New York, the fertility of the soil to be reclaimed, SiC. &c. and continue as follows : " The embankment and draining of meadows will soon become an object of much consideration. So it has been with other countries. What was Holland but a sunken marsh, before the sea was shut out, and the lands drained ? It is well known that some of her most fertile soil was once deeply covered by the ocean, and is now forty ftet below its surface ! Four hundred years ago, Ihe British Parliament began to aid individual enterprise, in reclaiming meadows and marshes. The Bedford level, once a waste, contains 300- 000 acres of reclaimed soil, and the Romney marsh 40,000 acres. Embankments in England have been erected to the height of 18 and 20 feet, and extended to the length of ten miles,"' &LC. " In Denmark, the government have encouraged individuals and companies to embark in these substantial and profitable spec- ulations, by large loans of money. In one year, upwards of one million of rix dollars were ad- vanced for these purposes. Such has been the extent of unoccupied lands in the United States, and the ease with whicli the fee is obtained, that draining and embankment have not consti- tuted an object of general interest. In the Southern States, however, some advances are made in this kind of industrj-. Draining and embankment have been successfully undertaken on the Cape Fear, Waggermaw, Santee, Ashley and Cooper, and Savannah rivers. As popula- tion clusters upon the sea board and upon the margins of our bays and rivers, we shall find a new channel opened to the industry and capital of our citizens, from which individual gain and general advantages will result." The Commit- tee then state, in substance, that the capital * This Report was presented in June, 18"0. Wc are not able so say what measures have betu pursued since that period lor embanking and draining^ the uiarsli it refers to. stock of the New .Jersey Salt Mar>h Company consists of three hundred thousand dollars, di- vided into shares of filly dollars each ; and go into calculations to show that " the dividend to be derived to the stockholdere, according to thi most reasonable compulation, must be seven [lei cent, for the first fourteen years, and will pro- bably ever after pay from 12 to 15 per cent, on the capital stock." There is a mode of improving lands situated at or near the mouths of rivers, which deserve? notice, although we cannot assert that it will be found eligible in the United States. There may, however, be situations, in whic h it can be ailopted to advantage, and we shall therefore brieily advert to it. It is called " H'lirpin^ Land."' It is effected by conducting water, which holds earthy matters in suspensio n, wash- ed down by rivers to their moulh«, from the stream in vvhich they flowed, over barren or marshy grouml, that the earthy matters may subside, and add to the soil which is thus over- tlowed. The ground which it is wi.-hed to im- prove by this metlmd is surrounded by Lank:' high enough to confine the water. The tide is then admitted, and detained till the sediment is deposited on the surl'ace of the soil. The wa- ter must be at command, and there must be not only a canal cut to join the river or tide wstcr, but a sluice, or sluices to open or shut as want- ed. Tide trunks with some variation in their construction as respects their valves, from that heretofore described, may answer for these slui- ces. The effect is different from that of irri- gation, for it is not produced by the water, but by the mud which it holds in suspension; and the object is not to manure, but to create a soil. This mode of making land has been practiced in Italy to great extent, and with corresponding advantage. For further directions relating to this important subject, we would refer our read- ers to Rccs'' Cyclopedia, Art. Einbankinvnt ; Sir Jiilui Sinclair's Code of Agricidturc, p. 2G8, 272 ; Gen. Report of Jlgricutture in Scotland, vol. ii, p. 615; Bcatson's Essay on Enibanhncnts ; Commu- nications to the Board of .Igriculturc, vol. ii, p. 214 ; American Farmer, vol. ii, p. 131, 143, 153. JVeyi' Jersey Canal. — Gen. Swift and Col. Ren- wick have reported to the Commissioners, at Morristown, that the plan of uniting the Dela- ware and Hudson by the Musconetcong and I'a.s- saic rivers may he accomplished without serious obstacles ; that its completion would be attend- t'd with immense advantages to the Iron Works in New Jerse), and supply the city of N. York with coal from the mines on the Lehigh river, in Pennsylvania, at a low price. It would also furnish the citizens of East Jersey with a more ready conveyance oi their agricultural products to the N. Y. market. Flax-dressing machine. — J. M. Elj', Esq. of New-York, recently returned from a visit to Europe, examined Mr. Enndley's esiablishment in London. Mr. B. informed him that he had invented a machine for dressing flax which he will warrant to accomplish all that can be de- sired. He had not filed a specification of his machine, but he was confident it would super- sede those now in use in England. Receipt for Sausages. — For 10 lbs. of meat, take 4 ounces of salt, one ounce of pepper, and aaje and oth- er herbs to your taste. 241 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. AN ADDRESS DELIVERED DEFORE THE ESSEX ACRICILTCRAI. SO- CIETT, AT THE AORICl^I-TURAI. EXIIIBITIO.V IN TOPSFIEMI, OCT. 2, lC2i. BV PETER EATON, D. D. OK nOXFORD. It is evident from the constitution of man, it was the orlsfinal design of Providence, lie sliould derive his subsistence from the earih. Want soon impelled him to rejiair to this nourisliin? parent. Tilling the ground was an art not un- known to the rirst human family. Where man has existed in the most rude and savage state, the chase has been a favorite pursuit. This, however, alTords a precarious and sometimes a scanty support. In proportion as civilization has spread, and a knowledge of the arts been cultivated, agriculture has claimed attention. — Its progress was slow and inconsiderable in the' early ages. Every thing was to be originated. There were no hints by which to profit — no rude instrument on which to improve — nothing to aid and direct inventive genius. Hence, the instruments of husbandry were very imperfect ; yet necessity, the parent of invention, led to the discovery of some of most essential use. Sicily »vas the first state in which agriculture attained any considerable improvement. It was here, also, religious rites were first instituted in honor of Ceres, the goddess of husbandry. — From this country a knowledge of the art was carried into Greece and the northern parts of Europe. In the early ages of Rome, relaxation from the toils of war was frequently devoted to the cultivation of the soil. The high and the low, the patrician and the plebeian were united in the same employment. All distinctions of rank were lost in the field. Those of the first standing in society might be seen toiling with the peasant. Not only nations the most civilized, bui even those the least cultivated and improv- ed, have considered agriculture the most impor- tant of the arts of life, because it provides for the support of life. To do honor to the em- ployment, and encourage the pursuit, Roman dictators followed the plough ; and the emperor of China, with the grandees of his empire, make an annual appearance in the field, to sac- rifice to their god, that he may be rendered propitious to the labors of the husbandman. — But it is not my purpose to trace the progress «f the art. I would contemplate it as it now exists. Gentlemen, I feel incompetent to the task as- signed me, possessing neither that theoretical or practical knowledge necessary to furnish me for the occasion. As I have gleaned but sparingly from experience, and not had opportunity to consult the writings of those who have attended fcicntilically to the subject, you may expect only a few common-plnce remarks. No country holds out greater allurements to agricultural pursuits than the United States. Nature has obviously designed this for a great farming nation. With a population spread over a vast extent of territory — blessed with a soil lich and fertile — the inhabitants distinguished lor hal)its of industry and perseverance — the •■.ountry intersected with rivers and canals, open- ing a free communication with the sea-coast, vfhicb skirts our whole border — our merchants surpassed by none for calculation and enterprise — with ports open to all nations — we have ev- ery possible encouragement to nourish and im- prove the arts of agriculture, it is the life of our commerce, and commerce richly repays the industrious husbandman. Too often has there existed a spirit of jealousy and rivalship, be- tween the commercial and agricultural interests. They are as intimately connected in this coun- try as cause and effect. England is a commer- cial nation, but of produce she is ot'ten a pur- chaser. It is her manufactures that cherish her commerce. In America, it is the farm which gives activity to commerce, and commerce which makes the farmer rich. Though agri- culture is of vital importance to the prosper- ity of our country, yet from its first settlement, till a recent period, this art has been left to it- self, neglected and unencouraged, and been un- der the management of those who reflected nothing more on the subject, than just sufficient to perform the manual labor on the farm. Either from a want of ability or inclination, few have inquired, whether there was any defect in our sj'stem of husbandry, or whether it was suscep- tible of improvement. Hence the same annnal routine of service has been performed on the farm — the son following the footsteps of the father, and continuing to cultivate the same field, because his father had done it before him. We congratulate our country, that societies are forming in every section of the Union — that gentlemen of talents and acquirements are lending their aid to this neglected art, endeav- oring to discover the defects of our system, and by experiments to ascertain the improvements of which it is susceptible. Much has already been done, an almost certain evidence more may be done, and sure pledge it will not be left undone. So inconsiderable is the gain of husbandry, so laborious the employment, as to present little inducement to young men, of talents and knowl- edge, to engage in the pursuit. The enterpris- ing youth looks around him for the lucrative employment, by which he may raise himself to affluence and ease. The only reward agricul- ture promises to the most persevering industry, is little more than a bare support. A further discouragement is, it has been considered a menial employment, less honorable than other occupations ; and the sentiment has obtained, that nothing more is necessary to make a far- mer, than a vigorous constitution and a robust body. Never was there a conclusion more er- roneous. The inference that any man is qual- ified to manage a farm, is as absurd, as that any man is qualified to manage a ship at sea. It re- quires careful observation, sound judgment and a discerning mind. In every other art and trade, practice and experience are thought indispensa- ble ; and is no skill necessary in conducting the complicated concerns of a farm? The practical attention now paid to husbandry, the lively in- terest taken in the subject by gentlemen of hon- orable standing in society, have a tendency to raise the reputation of this too often despised profession. In commendation of this employment, it may be observed, it is favorable to morals, health of body, and vigor of mind. It is friend- ly to morals, not presenting those temptations to deception and fraud, nor affording opportu- nities for imposition, nor inviting to the prac- tice of that chicanery, to which some other employments hold out a lure. The time of the farmer is devoted to himself. He labors in the clear light of heaven ; and if he cheat bis gii ID I5i "PI farm, he cheats himself Besides, he is babit« <^ ually conversant with objects, which cannot fai| to conduct his mind to that Being, who super- intends, directs and governs all. This employment conduces to health of body, Some mechanic arts and manufacturing estab- C lishments are debilitating in their influence They produce a sickly body and enfeebled mind. The farmer breathes a pure, uncontam- inated air; and if his day is toilsome, his rest is sweet. To no one class of men are we more indebted for our independence, than the hardy yeomanry of our country. From this class were selected some of your ablest gener.Ms and bravest soldiers; and on this class, more than any, rests our hope for its preservation. Nor will it be said that husbandry is unfavor- able to mental vigor. If we do not find, nor should we expect to find, those literary acquire- ments and general information which obtain among some classes in the communitv, yet where do we meet with sounder sense and judgment, and greater intellectual vigor, thaa among our industrious farmers? The great principles of agriculture are the same in every country ; and the plough, the hoe and the harrow are of essential use : yet, so various the climate and the soil, as in some re- spects to require a different process. One na- tion cannot adopt the precise system of another Labor is of the first importance in conducting a farm. In old countries, with a dense popula- tion, where it is much cheaper than in Ameri- ca, undertakings may be justified, and attempts at improvement made, which might prove ruin- ous with us. The disproportion between the price of labor and produce, is a bar in the wav of agricultural success. The large extent ol our unsettled territory, blessed with a salubri- ous air and fertile soil, where a farm may be obtained for a trifle, renders it probable this dis- proportion will long continue. As one country cannot take another for a perfect model in agri- cultural pursuits ; incur own, so different our climate and soil, that the South and the North cannot adopt the same process ; and even in the state of Massachusetts, so Tarious our local sit- uations, that each section must adopt a system, in some respects peculiar to itself. The society, which I now have the honor ol addressing, while desirous of diffusing informa. tion and of encouraging the interests of agricul ture in general ; yet in its formation and in the progress of its measures, has had a primary re garJtothe advantage of the county of Essex. As every district in the Commonwealth has its ad- vantages and disadvantages, the soil various, and that article may be cultivated in one, unsuited to another ; it would be for the interest of husbandry in general, that societies should be as numerous as our districts. Even in the county in which we dwell, certain portions enjoy advantages denied to others. Farms located near populous towns, or the sea shore, can be furnished with manure, with greater facility than in the country. Gen- eral principles in agriculture may be establish- ed and recommended, but specific rules are as various as the location of farms, which the judgment and discretion of the manager must search out and prescribe for himself. The farms in this county (with exception^ not numerous) consist of from forty to an hun- dred and forty acres of land. In experiments land researches, is not special reference to be tJ NEW ENGLAND FARMER. '2ib ad to the interest of the farmer, and what can e accomplished by this class of the communi- fj A gentleman, with a capital, may gratify is taste and curiosity in conducting his farm. — Vith him, it is immaterial, in his mode of culti- 1)1) ation, whether he is remunerated for his ex- ense or not. Not so with the common farmer. D any particular method of manuring and cul- ivating recommended, the first inquiry is, what vill be the clear gain, and shall i realize it at he end of the first or second year? It is to be emembered by our cultivators generally in Es- les, that the farm is their dependence ; nor can hey adopt any system of husbandry which will lot give them an immediate profit. The gentleman of capital, whose farm is his imusement, may wait years for his reward. — The common farmer wants his pay down. Plans of improFement have been recommended, prac- ticable indeed to the man of wealth, but whol- I3' uninteresting to the mass of farmers in Es- sex, because beyond their ability. They can adopt no sj'stem, which the farm itself cannot support. It is a maxim in husbandry, that no 1 scheme of management is of advantage to the | community, which will not give a profit ; and that is the best which will afford the greatest profit with the least labor and expense. In ev- ery pursuit, commerce, manufactures, the me- chanic arts and agriculture, gain is the first ob- ject. Schemes of cultivation have been pro- posed, but visionary, because you would be left in debt. With great expense 1 may obtain great crops; but if not remunerated for the labor and expense, even my great crops will ruin me. The question is not simply, How a great crop may be obtained ; there is a second question, Will this great crop pay for itself? It is no val- uable improvement in husbandry, to increase your productions, if your expense is proportion- ably increased ; because it leaves you no addi- tional gain. If, with a certain portion of labor and expense, I can obtain forty bushels of corn from the acre, and the expense must be increas- ed in proportion to the increase of crop to raise an hundred bushels, where is my profit ? It is of importance, then, in every proposed im- provement, that careful calculations should be made of the increased expense. The great de- sideratum is, to increase the productiveness of a farm, so that the expense may bear a less ratio to the increase. j The moderate size of our farms in this coun-l ty renders it necessary, that husbandry be con-| ducted on a limited scale. A small farm, how-i ever, well cultivated, is much more profitable than a large one, which is neglected. Many of «ur farmers have materially injured themselves, by endeavors to gratify an insatiable desire of possessing much land. Nothing gives them more pleasure than adding field to field. Id justification, it is pleaded, their property vested in land is secure. This remark may be just ; but you often sacrifice one half to secure the Other. It is bad management, and a mistaken policy. Admitting you can purchase land with- «ut involving yourself in debt, and place it in Z state of cultivation, the measure may be ju- dicious. A more common practice is, to plunge into debt for the purchase, and to leave the land half cultivated. The consequence is, the interest of the money, taxes, and the expense of labor, eventually consume the purchase. How manj ol" our I'arnaers complaia they are in debt ! and these debts have principally been | contracted by purchasing land they cannot half cultivate.* In the country, rarely will you find; a field which will pay the labor, the interest! and the taxes. By purchasing:, then, youim-l pose a burden on yourself difficult to sustain. Many have been impoverished, and not a few have been ruined, by possessing themselves of land for which they could not pay- The intel- ligent farmer, before he plunges into dept, will not fail to attend to this plain question, Will the income of the intended purchase more than repay the interest, the labor and the faxes ? If not you are better without the land. The pos- ses-sion of more land than can be improved is a tax upon the owner. It has been said, nor can it be too often re- peated, that manure is of the first importance on a farm. Notwithstanding the various ways of collecting it have been pointed out, its utili- ty and necessity urged by scientific and practi- cal men, little attention is paid to the subject by one half the farmers in the county. Noth- ing more is provided for their fields, than what is collected from their hovels in the winter, and the pens of their cows in the summer. He who does not attend to this branch of husbandry, is not deserving the name of a farmer. Every barn yard, after being emptied in the spring, should be immediately replenished, either with scrapings from the streets, earth which has been collected by wash, or the vegetable soil of low meadows. The latter is preferable tor warm, dry land. Where cows are folded over the night, a most valuable composition may be prepared through the summer. It is known to every farmer, that turning it often with a plough or fork will greatly increase its value. Of manure, too much cannot be said. The subject cannot too frequently be brought into view, nor too pressingly urged. It gives ycu grass and your grain. Although there is little danger of applying too great a quantity to yotr land, it may be used to excess. Indian corn will bear a free dressing ; but your crop of small grain may be injured by manuring too highly. It will either be choked by weeds, or fall down and perish before ripe. Even grass land may be manured to excess — causing your grass to fall before half grown ; or, if it escape this calamity, is rank and coarse, and not relished by your cattle. On the rich bottom lands in the Western States, when first cleared, a succession of crops of Indian corn are taken oiT to reduce the land, before wheat is applied. * This is often the effect of a pardonable pride — that liberty in which we glory — liberty lor every man to dispose of his own property as he pleases, or, if he dies intestate, the law divides it equally among his heirs, la England, though the laws do not forbid a division of their large estates, the eldest son usually possesses the soil and titles of his ancestors ; the youn- ger branches of the family not participating in the landed property. In the United States, as the law makes an equal distribution of property among the heirs, one takes the farm by paying out legacies. Un- willing to dispose of the paternal inheritance, he com- mences life with a burden of debt ; under the weight of which he is often crushed. The child who inherits the homestead, is usually envied. More frequently is his the harder lot. This law, which equalizes proper- ty in a family, is productive of one happy eflect ; it preserves an equality among our citizens, not known in England ; and, so long as this law shall be in force, will forever preserve us from the evils of those wide extremes there experienced — overgrown wealth, aad abject poverty, Few articles are cultivated with greater profit and success in this country, than Indian corn. The valunblo uses to which it may be applied, are well iiudcrsfood. Yet errors, un- doubtedly, obtain in its cultivation. It is a gen- eral practice ^vith good farmers, to give their corn three hoeings, without regard to different soils, or the slate of their land. Whereas four hceings are more necessary for some field.-, than two for others. It is indispensable that the weeds be kept down, let it cost what labor it may. If three hoeings will not do it apply the fourth. Permit them to grow, not only do they injure your present crop, by taking the moisture and nourishment from your corn, but suffer them to seed, and a foundation is laid for a harvest of weeds the following year. Indian corn is usually succeeded by small grain: and how often have we observed it choked, and, before harvest, overtopped, by weeds sown the preceding year, through the neglect of the hus- bandman! In land naturally weedy, when sown with small grain, I have sometimes nearly lost my crop by its being overtopped, by weeds The evil has been remedied, by increasing the quantity of seed. Upon the farm on which I was born and brought up, (my father was a husbandman) it was practised, in planting Indian corn on sward land, to put the summer manure into the hill : the winter manure was spread, and, as was termed, harrowed in, but not a fourth part was covered ; the rest was lost by evaporation. This injudicious practice is still continued by many farmers. To our President we feel indebted for many valuable remarks on this subject.* If corn is hoed after it begins to top, the plough ought not to be used. It has been found at this advanced state of the corn, that fibres extend four and five feet, near the surface of the ground, in' search of nourish- ment. These fibres are cut by the plough ; the corn 13 deprived of much of its nourish» ment, and your crop is injured. If necessary to remove weeds, let the hoe be the instrument. It is believed to be of consequence, that atten- tion be paid to the form of the hill. Some pre- fer a large hill, of a conical form, as it will pre- serve the stalks more erect ; and by making a large hill, all the manure is brought into the vicinity, and the corn will more readily avail itself of the advantage. A flat hill, of a mod- erate size, is unquestionably preferable ; the stalks are permitted to spread themselves — are not so easily broken by the wind — more readily admit the sun, the dew and showers. Nor is a large hill necessary, that the manure may be drawn up; the fibres, which wander so far in search of nourishment, will find it, if uponyour land. Summer wheat, though a most valuable grain., is not adapted to the county of Essex. In some of our western districts, it may be cultivated with success, while we have sustained from its cultivation very material loss, within the last thirty years. Not oftener than once in three or four years do you obtain a decent crop- In the intermediate years, your produce is small. Average your grain for four years, and you find the profits light. Still, the farmer lives in hope, and continues the cultivation of a grain which but indifferently rewards him for his labor. Wiiereas, barley and oals rarely faii * See Hon. Mr. PickeriDg''s Address to Ite £mw Agricultaral Secietj, 1818, pages 6, 9- 246 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. you. It is owins; to our proximity to the sen, that our wheat is oflfncr blasted than in more inland countie? ? Ami why is one field, with us, blighted like I'lnroah's corn, ivhile another, but little removed, is rank aud t'lill .' Enqiiir- ies into the cause are well worth (lie attention of the pliil'isopliir. It is very desirable that our wet meadow-land, much of which is now almost useless, mig-ht be rendered productive. Those lands we possess to a considerable extent. Is it impracticable to introduce the lovvl-mcadow grass ? Has the experiment been sutlicicntly tried ? Some meadow land has been improved by draining and carrying on earth. The late Col. Baldwin, a gentleman ot a trulj' philosophic mind, gave me the tbllowing l'act«. Having occasion to build a barn, he t'ormcd the purpose of open- ing a cellar under it, for the reception of ma- nure. The plot on which the barn was to be erected was a light s.mdy soil. In the vicinity was a boggy meadow, through which he cut wide ditches, with sides not perpendicular, but on the principle of the inclined plane, to pre- vent filling. In the winter, when frozen, the ground «as covered with sand taken from the cellar, this again with the earth taken from the ditch. Clover and herds-grass seed were then sowed, which grew luxuriantly, rising to the height of three or four feet, giving him three tons to the acre. It may bo questioned, however whether this was the most proper seed to apply. Clover and herds-grass are not natives of the bog meadow, and after being introduced by ar- tificial means, will degenerate. Had fowl- meadow grass been substituted, his success doubtless would have been greater. This val- uable grass delights in being irrigated, yet will not flourish amidst stagnant water. It may be introduced by burning, or ditching and carrying on earth. In soine parts of Worcester county, it has been introduced with great .^dvantage in- to wet meadows, which had been useless. 1 re- gret it is not in my power, at this time, to make some more particular communications in regard to this excellent fodder. Change of crops is ever thought of impor- tance by tiie intelligent farmer. In every soil there are ingredients suited to the nourishment of certain plants. Hence, we see dilVerent soils spontaneously yielding dilforent trce«, roots and I vegetables. In vain you attempt to raise par- ' ticular vegetables on certain soils. The reason they will not flourish is, the soil does not pos- sess those particular qualities or ingredients necessaiy for their support. Often it is impreg- nated with (lualitics which are injurious. Use- less the attempt to cultivate the willow on the sandy desert, while some vegetables will flour- ish no where else. Every plant has a particular constitution (if I may be allowed the expres- sion,) which requires a particular climate, soil and nutriment, and, if denied either, becomes feeble, sickly, and may die. Following land with ii succession of crops of the same kind. may eventually exhaust it of those particular qualities in which they delight. A tield of po- tatoes has been reared, of the most luxurianl growth. In the following year the same crop continued; and, though manure was abundnntly supplied, it was feeble, and of scarce any value. Did not the preceding planting exhaust the soil of those particular qualities in which the root delights? Succeeded by ditfereut seed, the in- crease was satisfactory. It being most evident, there is something in every soil particularly suited to nourish certain vegetables, may not these qualities be exhausted, aud render a change expedient and profitable ? I A common error we observe in husbandry is, continuing the cultivation of the same field, ' while others, of a better soil, are permitted to j lie neglected. Hoiv ot'ten we see the son plant- ing and sowing year after year the same spot of ground, for no better reason than that his fa- ther did before him; while by the si 37 bbl. 1 50 ton. 22 00) ^(10 248 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. THE FARMER'S LOT. Sweet is the farmer's humWe lot, Unknown to anguish, care and strife, Happy and pfacuful is his cot, He glides adown the hill of life ; To him that vale is spread in flowers, And grac'd with amaranthine bowers, And pleasure and delight are there. And dove-eyed joy with laughing air. How sweet to roain at glittering dawn, Adown the violent-spangled glade, A diamond sea on every lawn, A tuneful choir in every shade ; And fleecy clouds of purple dye, Flitting atliwart the vermeil sky. And hills in emeraldine vests. And wrapt in gold their flaming creels. O ! let me ever, ever dwell. From vice and folly far away, And roam along the woodland dell, And tunc my rustic roundelay : And when old age with soft decay, .Steals the rose of youth away, ,, Then let me press the cypress wreath. And sweetly sleep the sleep of death. condemning himself. A good conscience is the I firmest opiate. The Materia Medica cannot supply one half so efficacious and pleasant; and all the nabobs together, if they were to unite their fortunes in one general contribution, could not purchase' a similar one. s. — Every man of common organization power ot becoming a man of genius, if Genius lias the power to this be added, a solitary devotion to art, and a vehement passion for glory. It is the capaci- ty of long attention which, in the present day, must make one man superior to another. False Liberty. — In the work of James I, enti- tled " True Law of Free Monarchy," it is laid down that a free monarchy is one in which tlie monarch is prrj'ectlij free to do as lie plenses. — \Ye have heard of another friend to freedom, who carried his ideas of liberty still farther than this wise prince. " Liberty," he said, " con- sists in my having a right to do what I please, and to make every body else do what I please to have them do." Disadvantages of a scattered population. — Em- igration spreads mankind, which weakens the defence of a nation, and lessens the comfort of living. RIen, thinly scattered, make a shift, but a bad shift, without many things A smith is ten miles off: they'll do without a nail or a sta pie. A taylor is far from them : they'll patch their own clothes. It is being concentrated. which produces comfort and convenience. Advantages of Family Connexions. — Every man who takes an active part in the concerns of this world has need of friends. If he has to find them, and prove them, half his life is spent be- fore he knows that they can be relied on. Re- lations are, generally, a man's friends, to whom, ^vhen in real distress, he will resort for assist- ance, notwithstanding family differences may h.ue raised temporary barriers against the courtesies of friendship. An old lawyer, who had much experience in making wills, declared that, after people had deliberated long, and thought of many for their executors, they set- tled at last, by fixing on their relations. This shows the universality of the principle. Description of a Book. — You might read half an hour and ask yourself what you had been reading : there were so many words to so little matter that you might as well undertake to ex- tract sun beams from cucumbers, as to"obtain the light of intellect from such a mass of opacity. A Good Conscience. — How sweet the slum- bers of him who can lie down on his pillow and review the transactions of every day without To make Size from, Potatoes. One of the beneficial uses of potatoes, not perhaps generally known, is, that the starch of them, quite fresh, and washed only once, may be employed to make size, which, mixed with chalk, and diluted in a little water, forms a very beautiful and good white for ceilings. This size has no smell, while animal size, which pu- trifies so readily, always exhales a very disa- greeable odour. That of potatoes, as it is very little subject to putrefaction, appears, from ex- perience, to be more durable in tenacity and whiteness ; and, for white-washing, should be preferred to animal size, the decomposition of which is always accompanied with unhealthy exhalations. turn, will be called upon to perform their pai ^ on the grand theatre of human life. It is '^ noble sight, and one of the best symptoms of th,- long continuance of our free republican inat tutions, when we behold apprentiees alert, viij; ilant, and industrious, prompt to learn and zea ous to excel. They may hear of naval and t . military glory ; but theirs is a glory more pe " maoeot. The State calls but here and ther and now and then, for heroes — this is only d ring the period of carnage and war, of butc • ery and of blood. The glory of a laborii man is connected with all that is dear in hum; life — it is identified with peace and contec' ment, with the early smoke that arises fro the family cottage, with the bleat of the mer Hocks, with the ripening harvest that seems nod as if impatient of the sickle. These t umphs are not won by blood and carnage ; th' are pacific victories, and let it be remember' that the Saviour of the world is called the Prin of Peace. From the Baltimore Morning Chronicle. THE MECHAKIC. There is no condition in life better calcula ted than that of a laborious mechanic, for a man to feel and realize a proper sense of his own dignity and independence, lie retires to his meals from the fatigues of the day, with a full conviction that his sturdy hand has earn- ed the refreshments of his table. He feels that his wealthy neighbor cannot enjoy even bis opulence without his assistance. His time never hangs upon his hands; and his robust frame and his hardy sinews attest how essential this exercise is to the health of his body. He progresses onward, as it were by inches, to competence ; and he learns the practical lesson of economy and frugality in his family expendi- tures. Removed from the vice and gorgeous temptations of a fashionable life, he knows how- to bridle his ambition ; he feels the blessings of the family hearth, and can look without a sigh on the gaudy pageantry of the day. This is a true moral independence — this curb on our unruly desires, this temperance in the exer- cise of all our wishes, are the very materials that constitute valuable citizens. It should be the pride, as undoubtedly it is the right of a laboring man to indulge in such ideas. Roys that are put out us apprentices to mechanical profession are taken many times from a state of poverty and ignorance, and prepared for fulfiling afterwards honorable stations. If they would but properly comprehend the full ex- tent of such benefits, they would see nothing but their future honor, dignity and indepen- dence in their own indentures. They are learning, not as they are too prone to believe, the alphabet of servitude and degradation, but the rudiments of taith, and industry, punctuali- ty, economy, and all those virtues that decorate and adoru the family hearth. They are now giving pledges to their masters of what their future character will be, when they, ia their II Mr. Thomas Jeffreys, ol Melksham, Wi ;[ shire, (England,) gave a dinner on Tuesds the 29th ult. to 22 of his neighbors, all residei in the aforesaid parish, whose ages together a ounted to 2000 years. The hard winter, whi began on Christmas Eve, 1739, was very fan i:u- to many of the company, and some well member the ice to have been more than yard in thickness in many of the ponds in tl vicinity. it SI Cursing according to Law. — Some years sb when a scarcity prevailed in Connecticut, ap' ' man by the name of Crocker, went to a r farmer whom he knew to possess a surplui Indian corn, and tendered him the highest pi for a bushel of it ; but the farmer refused sell, pretending that he had none to sps whereas, it was evidently false; and that only hoarded it up for the present, as some t do, to starve buyers into the necessity of giv them the extortionate price they wish to ta Upon this, Crocker gave him his full charac in which it seems, he did not take the namt God in vain. However, the farmer imm< ately arraigned him for abuse, before one J tice Hyde, and when our pauper was callec answer to the charge, and make his defeo instead of attoniies and law books, he produ< only a bible, (for bibles were then regard and road a passage which says, " Cursed is man that wilhholdeth corn from the poor, j and the people shall curse him." Here he gued that he had done no more than what ( had authorised and expressly commanded; turning to the old Gripus who had prosecu him, said, '■'• God curses you ! and 1 curse y Do you curse him too, Esquire Hyde, for ont your curses is worth two of mine !" A gentleman complimented a lady on her proved appearance. ' You are guilty of 1 tery,' said the lady. ' Not so,' replied theg* tleman, ' for I vow you are as plump as a }'• tridgc.'' ' At first,' rejoined the lady, ' 1 thout you guilty of flattery only, but now I find ;J are actually making ^a7)ic of me.' He that will not reason, is a bigot ; he that can *[ reason, is a fool ; and he that darci not reason, slave. i NEW ENGLAND FAliMER. Slished every Saturday, by THt).MAS \V. !>HErARl>, Ivogirs' Building, Coiigpress Street, Boston ; at §2, it) per aim. in advance, nr !j;;3,00 at ilii- close of the year- ^L. I. BOSTON, SATURDAY, MARCH 8, 1823. No. 32. DISEASES OF CATTLE. [lECTEO AND COMPILED FROM THE BEST AFTHORS, BV THE EDITOR. Grain Sick. The first symptoms of this disease are a dull, avy appearaoce of the eyes of the animal ; B frequently shifts about from one side to the ner, and when let loose, or driven about, mplains verj' much. On examining; her, a ful- 3S may be perceived betwixt the hip and ribs, the opposite side to the milking one, if pres- i with the hand ; this fulness will be felt to nsist in the extension of the stomach. As the iease advances a loss of milk ensues, and a al dislike to any food. This disease is caused by a surfeit of grain, d its remedies are bleeding and purging ; the 3t to relieve the urgent symptoms, the second remove the cause of the malady. The quan- y of blood, according to Dr. Skellet, should t be less than from two to three quarts ; but he prescribes for large cows, in the vicinity London, perhaps a smaller quantity w^ould be sferable for animals of but middling size. — le purging drink recommended by the same Ihor is as follows : Sulphur from 8 to 12 or 16 oz. proportioning it to the strength of the animal. Nitre, 2 oz. rurmeric or Cummin seeds, of each 1 oz. When this has operated in unloading the mach, the weakness of that organ, the loss appetite which ensues, and the deticiency of ik connected with it, will be repaired by dicines of an aromatic and bracing nature, ■.h as coriander, ginger, aniseed, &:c. Diluent uors and mashes form the proper food for ne days. Strains and Bruises. When these accidents occur in a considerable gree, or if an important part has been injur- , bleeding is highly proper. As inflammation the common effect of these injuries, fomenta- ins are at tirst the most proper applications ; d, when the inflammation has subsided, the dmcnt recommended for swollen udder*^ may rubbed on the part two or three times a day. hen any part of the limbs has been strained, as to occasion lameness, if the lameness con- lues after this plan has been tried, it will be visable to have recourse to a blister, which ill be found more etfectual than the most cele- ated strain oils. In slight bruises from the pressure of the ike, or other causes, the following lotion is eful : Gourlard's extract i oz. Vinegar 4 oz. Water 1 pt. Mis. [TVhite'» Treatise. Warls, or Horny Excrescences. These are aflections of the skin which in )ws do not go deep ; they destroy the roots I' the hair, wherever they form, and are of a 'rm and homy texture, and readily give way ihen pulled or roughly bandied, which occa- ^- See K. E. Farmer, No. 30, p. S33. sions them to bleed, and shows their connexion with the vessels of the skin. They readily yield to emollient ointments, particularly to goose grease, which should be frequently rub- bed on them till the excrescences fall oft". Sdi'cllings on the Joints and Bones. Swellings on the joints and bones are gener- ally very painful to the touch, attended with inflammation and fever. If the swelling comes on suddenly, and its increase is rapid, it gener- ally torniinaies in suppuration, if situated on the joint, a discharge of the liquor of the joint, or joint oil, is the consequence, which is dan- gerous and troublesome to cure. On the con- trary, if the swelling comes gradually, with little pain, and a hard callous sub.»tance is felt, and if early attempts are not made to stop its progress, it will end in a stiff joint, and all at- tempt? to cure it will be in vain. ^riiis disease generally proceeds from kicks or blows with stools. Sec. or violent strains. When the swelling comes on rapidly, with much pain and inflammation, bleeding and purg- ing should be immediately recurred to. The purge should he as follows : Epsom salt 1 lb. — Nitre 2 oz. — Ging-or 2 oz. Fomentations should be applied twice or three times a day. The following is recommended by Dr. Skellet : Take of Wormwood and Southernwood, of each, two handfuls, Poppy heads, four or five handfuls, Elder flowers, a handful, Commomile flowers, 4 oz. Bay and Juniper berries, of each, 1 oz. Crude Sal Ammoniac and Potash, each 2 oz.* Boil these materials in f«ur quarts of spring water, till reduced to three. Then foment the swelling with flannels, as hot as possible, for a quarter of an hour or more ; after which, the flannels are to be bound over the part till the time of fomenting again. This operation may be repeated for two or three days, at which period the inflammation will probably be on the decline, when the following method must be adopted. Take of Spanish flies in fine powder, 2 dr. Spirits of Ammonia 4 oz. Mix together, and rub a little of the mixture into the part affected ; after which a flannel roller is to be slightly put on, and kept on till a profuse discharge or blistering takes place, which will form into a crust, which should not be rubbed off. If suppuration has already begun, or the dis- ease so far advanced that it cannot be avoided, it should be brought to a head as soon as poas. ble ; after which the following balsam may be applied once or twice a day. Take of compound tincture of myrrh 2 oz. Blue vitriol water ^ oz. The vitriol water may be made by dissolving ten drachms of blue vitriol in powder, in a pint of hot water ; the balsam to be well shaken to- * No doubt a part of these materials only, might answer a good purpose, and should be applied when all Q3wa.9i couTeoieatly be obtaiued. gether previous to using it. Should there be any discharge of the joint oil it may be neces- sary to proceed as hereafter will be directed under the head Loss of Joint Oil. When the scurf falls off, which the blistering has produc- ed, and there remains any lameness, the follow- ing plaster should be applied. Take of black and Burgundy pitch 1 lb. Oxycroceum and Paracelsus .; oz. Bole .Armenian and Dragon's blood 2 oz. When this swelling comes on gradually with little pnin, and is of a hard, callous, or bony nature, (bmentations will be of no use. But the hair should be first cut ofl'tbe part affected, and some of the under mentioned blister rubbed well into the swelling with a knile or spatula; and it may be repeated tor two or three succes- sive mornings, or till a plentiful discharge i-' produced. Take of quicksilver 1 oz. Goose grease 2 or 3 dr. To be rubbed together in a mortar till the quicksilver is completely killed ; then add the following in line powder. Take of Cantharides 2 dr. Sublimate i dr. Oil of Origanum 2 dr. IMarsh. mallow ointment 2 oz. Goose grease IJl oz. Tar 2 oz. Oil of vitriol i dr. Spirits of ammonia 1 oz. Mix all well together. After this operation, and the scarf had fallen off, if there should remain any hardness, .nnd the animal is still lame, the blister may be re- peated, which seldom fails to produce a perfect cure. If the animal seems weak in that part, after the above process, which is sometimes the case, the plaister of burgundy pitch, &c. before recommended, will be proper, in order to strengthen it. Srft Sxt'etlings. From bruises and other accidental injuries in ■yetting up and l^'ing down, cows are subject to soft or (Edematous swellings of the joints, which are without any pain, heat or inflammation. They enlarge often to a considerable size, and yield readily to the pressure of the finger. — Though this complaint is never attended with danger, it is troublesome to the animal from its size, and even ditlicult to remove, if it has been of long continuance. Its management depends on making an opening into the swelling in the first instance, which may he done by running a hot iron into the lowest or most depending part of it, making two or three openings in this way where the fewest blood vessels are situated; and this operation requires particular caution, that the discharge may gradually come away, and that no vessels may be injured, iVom the danger of producing an internal hemorrhage, which would occasion a new increase of swel- ling and inflammation, instead of lessening the disease. When the openings into the swelling are properly made, and a gradual evacuation takes place, tlien the orifices are to be plugged 2r»o NEW ENGLAND FARMER. u)), within twenty four hours, with a caustic composed of a small quantity of corrosive sub- limnte, in powder, placed on tow, which is to he first wetted, tliat tlie powder may adhere to it. The effect of this will be to cause a slough- ing of the coats of the swelling, vvhen a core to a certain extent will be brought out, by which means a suppuration will ensue, and the swel- ling be gradually reduced during its progress. The swelling is to be rubbed at the same time with the following mixture : Linseed oil ■»■. 8 oz. Oil of turpentine 2 oz. Oil of vitriol 1 oz. Though the parts never regain entirely their natural size, yet by these operations, the animal will be enabled to move the joint without any inconvenience. After the wounds are healed, the remaining' callous or swelling should be blistered two or three times, in order to make the joint more pliable. The blister most prop- er for the purpose is composed of Spanish tlies and spirits of ammonia, as directed under the head •• Swellings on the joints and hones." Ske'kt's Treatise. ORIGIN.VL COMMUNICATIONS. TO THE EDITOR OF THE NEW ENtLA.\D FARMER. In No. 30 of your paper, is a letter from Mr. .'. Kennck to Mr. I'omeroy, in which he again notices my observations on the best time for fel- ling trees for timber ; and thinks them " sub- stantially correct," with one exception, where I say " the larger the grain the hanler and stronger is the wood." — On this he remarks — •' From my own experience I certaiidy know that coarse grained wood, though heav}', is brit- tle, and far from being the strongest." He adds, that wheelwrights will say, " that coarse grain- ed wood is unlit for spokes or carts, and too brit- tle for pin-wood ;" and he aflfirms. " that the strongest timber will always be found in a me- dium between the coarsest and the finest grain- ed." Mr. Kenrick's views and mine appear to be the snme — so to manage timber trees as to ren- der them most useful; and to select the fittest for the several objects to which they are ap- plied. He appeals to his experience, the proper basis for reasoning on a disputed point : but to make it the test of truth, all the circumstances must be alike. If Mr. Kenrick will look again on my essay, he will see the imjjortance I attach to the age of timber trees ; that there is a time when they attain maturity, or fall age, at which they may probably continue stationary for some years ; but if left standing many years after their full age, that the toughness and strength of the wood are greatly impaired. The coarse grained wood which Mr. Kenrick pronounces to be* brittle, I should suspect as falling under my own lestriclion — whose toughness and strength were impaired by age. — To make a fair exper- iment, select trees growing on the same soil ; count the grains to find trees of the same, or nearly the same age ; the grains of one coarse of another fine, and a third at a medium be- tween the former two. From the butt end of each, take pieces of the same age (by counting the annual rings from the heart) and dress them to the same size — say an inch square and two feet long: rest their ends equally on support- ers, and at their central distances between the Bujiporters, hang on weights, increasing tbejp gradually until the pieces severally break. Their strength, then, will be in the proportions of the weights they sustain. I have not a shad- ow of doubt that the largest grained will prove the strongest wood. — This experiment, I am aware, will require some time and care, to ren- der it satisfactory ; but not more, I hope, than Mr. Kenrick may have leisure to bestow upon it. In the mean while, I take leave to ofter two or three things for his consideration. The same tree, from its butt to its fop, will furnish all degrees of the grain, from the coars- est to the finest. Let him dress out as many pieces as he pleases, to the same dimensions, say at every two or more feet of its length, from its butt upward ; and then by weights suspended as above mentioned, see which are the stronger. I think I run no hazard in saying, beforehand, that they will be found decreasing in strength, as the grains lessen, from the butt upwards. Again — cut off the extreme end of a limb of an oid tree (say an apple free, such as he has of- ten pruned) where it is an inch in diameter ; and at the same time cut off a young shoot, of the same diameter, springing from the trunk, or a large limb, of the same tree. In the latter he may count perhaps five grains — in the former, twenty or more. The piece of the old limb he knows will be found extremely brittle ; but the young shoot very tough and strong. Mr. Ken- rick must also have noticed the much greater strength of the extreme ends of the limbs of young trees, compared with the extreme ends of the branches of old trees — supposing both to have sprung from the seeds, and to have re- mained ungrafted. What causes the striking difference in strength (which I here take for granted) be- tween the butt cut and the higher portions of the stem of the same tree ? what but the great- er quantity of woody fibre in one than in the other? — A transverse cut of the butt, viewed with a microscope, would exhibit a large por- tion of solid matter ; a like cut far up the stem, a bundle of pores connected by very thin layers of wood. It just now occurs to me, that Lord Kaims, in his " Gentleman Farmer," mentions the ages of trees when in their proper state for timber. He wrote, in Scotland, this valuable work, about the year 1772. Great improvements in British husbandry have been since made. In •his chapter on the culture of forest trees, after directing the manner of making plantations, he treats of the grown wood. " I begin (says he) with examining at what age a tree is in perfec- tion for the purposes of a farm. At the age of sixty, it is sufficiently large for every farm- ing purpose ; being, when cut to the square, from twelve to fifteen inches each side. I must except the oak, which even for the purposes of farming, improves till it bo one hundred years old. Every oak consists of red and white wood ; the former the firmest of all wood, the latter [the sap wood] good for nothing. Ash, after the growth of sixty years, turns brittle^ — I am in- clined to think the American white-oak (which appears to be very different from the oak of Great Britain) and ash, not only continue to grow, but to retain their strength, to greater ages. I am also disposed to believe that the " coarse grained wood which Mr. Kenrick and others have found to be brittle, had passed the age of maturity, and entered on the first sta- ges of decay. At still greater ages, the wo*;i> of trees becomes more and more brittle ; at at length they fall. In this way, whole fores of aged trees perish and disappear, and are soi ceeded by new races, sometimes of the sa sorts of trees, but often of totally different kind In the same letter, Mr. Kenrick mentioi his practice in pruning trees (fruit trees, I pn t- surae, apples and pears especially) in June ; ai " is satisfied that the only proper lime for pru: ing is while the bark will peel, in June or Ji ly." — But being then full of leaves, it most I more difficult to see where to prune, than early spring, before the buds open, ftly ow practice has been to prune in the spring, begii ning when the buds have scarcely begun i ft swell ; and ending before the expansion of tli leaves. But I never leave " stumps" of limb Every branch that is taken away, is cut clos and even with the stem or the limb where grew ; and the healing of the wound commei T cos and proceeds kindly as vegetation advance If the branch cut olf be large, the wound shoui be covered with some kind of plaisfer. Tb tine orchard in Newton known to Mr. Kenric fifty years ago, was doubtless pruned with axe leaving stumps from two to four or five inchi long. The sap, in such cases, will endeavor i climb up, and will ascend part of the way, b cannot reach their tops. These exposed to it damp air and rains, at length rot, and produce general decay. The saw is essential to corre pruning. T. PICKERING. Salem, Feb. 24, 1823. lis' n w. lit m k tci, It s ei FOR THE NEW E.VGLAND FARMER. .V/. Editor — While j'ou are so laudably engaged nunding; the breed and condition of our domestic ai mals, I have Ihougrht it might not be amiss to subn to your disposal some remarks iu the wish of iraprovii the health of the great biped who superintends n only the field and the barn, but the house and its i mates. — ON DRESS, OR CLOTHING. !n devising the means of promoting and s curing our physical well being, it is the bus ness of art to counteract the irregularities nature ; to modify principles, and to supply e pedients, so as to meet the emergencies of pa ticular cases. It is said by some persons that they wear tl same clothes all the year round, implying, wil a good deal of self-complacency, that they ha^ discovered a better rule of conduct in this caS' than others have been able to adopt. Thei would, however, be quite as much wisdom in man's saying that he would have a fire of tV same size, in his parlor, during every day i the year, or, that he would have no fire in anl day of the year. In our climate, which is at once variable an extreme, to suit one's clothing to our fluctua ing seasons, requires no little care and attei tion. From too light a dress in winter every ol server must know that many young ladies, i particular, take cold, and thus lay the fbundi tion of fatal consumption. No degree of cold, which is at all painfu can long be endured with safety. The first requisite of a winter garment b that it be sufficient to keep us warm ; and thi first requisite in summer is, that it occasion a little superfluous heat and weight as possible And at all times the entire dress should be s NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 251 jde as lo leave the moving organs of the bo(I_y rfectly free, so as to permit the sfreat fuuc- ins of health to go on without the least inter- ption from pressure or conlinement. A dress at wants any of these properties cannot be nformable to reason or the conditions of health. )w is it that a dress like this, so simple in the- y, so easy in execution, and so salutary in its ects, has been so little esteemed and adopted ? Fashion has been the great opponent. This pere arbitress will not bear a division of au- )rily, nor an cq\ial in display. Whoever is t for her, .she is against. Unconditional sub- ssion is the only term of favor ; and before s can be given, health and good taste must renounced. But who shall be found of suffi- ^nt nerve to brave the sneers and contempt the votaries of fashion? We call ourselves a free people, but no man itrictly free who docs not in every thing, feel nself at liberty to obey the dictates of his n head and heart, in promoting his own phy- al and moral health and happiness. I make se remarks on the fi'eedora of action, because hout a consciousness of possessing it, men inot be elevated to any thing great or good, n should believe that power and responsibi- ■ are equal ; neither reason nor revelation ognizcs any accountability beyond this.^ re men liberty and power, and then you can uence them by motives ; they may be per- ded that knowledge is good, and be incited icquire it. knowledge will teach them that reason is a !er guide than prejudice, that liberty is bet- than slavery, health than sickness, temper- e than excess, &c. Now if this is true, I dt it follows, that when health and fashion opposed to each other, we should do well irefer the former. lany facts might be mentioned to show the jence of too much or too little clothing, in ducing or increasing disea.?es of every kind, scially those which affect the lungs. The lity of the clothing should be suited to the ither. Mr. B. told me that he twice had a irn of cough and spitting of blood, by wear- his summer clothes a week after the weath- became cool in September. But it is not icient to vary the weight or quality of dress b the seasons only ; it is also necessary to nge it daily with the varying temperature he air, even in summer, in middle latitudes. en the animal powers are languid, it is dilli- I to keep the extremities warm; whence women in Holland have recourse to a par- ilar apparatus for warming their feet. But this purpose, after suitable clothing and Mng, the great expedient is bodily exercise. ["here is, however, no comparison between ad of clothes in cool rooms, and a light dress hot ones, where these circumstances only to be taken into the account. Those who ow the former usage will escape numberless esses, to which the followers of the latter I be subject. The inhabitants of Holland, and the English 9 have resided long among them, are forci- struck with the coughs, both catarrhal and sumptive, so universally prevalent in Eng- i, at almost every season of the year. At irch and at the theatre, devotion and pleas- are alike interrupted, and sometimes totally troyed by incessant coughing and expectora- tion ; while in the largest assemblies in llollaiul, in.stances of a similar kind are hardly known. This striking difference may be ascribed to the contrast observable between the two countries in the construction of their habitations, and in the iicculiarities of their dress. The Dutch apartments are cool, and their clothing warm. A Dutch woman feels herself insufferably op- pressed in a room which an American or Eng- lish woman would deem but moderately warm. It seems to be a fair inference that a formidable portion of the unhealthfulness and mortality in England and America depends precisely on the effect of our opposite customs in regard to cloth- ing and lodging. How far the following des- cri])tion of a fashionable dress, from an English physician, may be applicable to the females in the larger towns and cities of our own country, 1 leave every one to decide for himseU'. " Many women in the morning muffle them- selves up to the chin and ears, and go about half naked all the evening, braving disease and death. The cold of our climate is sufficient annually to cut down thousands of females, who having been tenderly brought up, will not guard themselves by adequate covering against it. — But the ladies are not content with the havoc committed in this manner. Among death-bed confessions I have sometimes heard of a prac- tice of damping the cobweb garments, which would otherwise hang about the limbs too loose- ly. By this means the killing rigor of an in- clement atmosphere, is most materially assisted. The desire of obtaining a celebrity, equal to that of some monuments of ancient art, which have lately been transferred to Paris, appears to me quite as good a reason, for risking life, as many of those which have conferred mortal- ity on the adventurers. But the beautiful fol lowers of the attitude or statue fashion unfortu nately do not stiffen into figures, like the Venus de Medicis, or like what they themselves would be in good health. The state to which they are often reduced, is one from which every body turns away with horror, except the stealer of dead bodies and the dissector." I will close with one word on the use of flan- nel. This article should never be worn so long as linen or cotton is sufficient for warmth, and when it is put on by day it should be taken off at night. It is useless by night, and in this way it is a far better defence and security by day. But is all judgment and taste to be sacrificed to health ? No ; there will still be sufficient scope for these, after the provisions for health are made. Colors may be suited to the com- plexion, the form of the garment to the shape of the wearer, expense to revenue, and the whole style of dress to the character and con- dition of individuals. for every twenty weight, I add one ounce of good double refined salt pefre, and half a pint of molasses; scald and skim that in the brin'j, put it by, and let it cool, then pour it on the legs sufficient to co\ or them. When they are im- pregnated with the pickle, then smoke or dry as suits the taste. 1 dry the legs, and smoke the meat tub with cobs. When there is danger of flies, I put my meat back into the tub, and scald and skim the pickle, cool and [)Ut it on the ba- con legs. They will keep sweet and fresh without rust, or tasting rancid or strong at a year old. The same pickle is good for pork, and will preserve the lean part good. It is al- so excellent lor beef, but it should be put on that boiling hot. I have used the same pickle for about thirty years for all my meat, which I boil and skim, and make the additions of salt petre and molasses. WALLIS LITTLE.^ Toicnsaul, Feb. 22, 1823. to the editor op the kew englakd farmer. Dear Sir, I received your paper, and am greatly pleas- ed and amused wi;h the spirit of improve- ment that seems to have awakened the Amer- ican farmers, &c. I find that several have written on the mode of preserving Bacon. I have my way which I will offer. It is to rub the legs over with a small quantity of salt and salt petre the night after the hogs are killed (if I can.) Then 1 make a pickle sufficient to cover all the legs, and boil and skim it till it is cleansed of all the scum that will rise. Then From the Americau Farmer. THE HAMPTON DAIRY— A'cor Bahimorc. We have been kindly permitted to take from the farm register the following account of sales of butter from Gen. Fiidgely's dairy, at Hamp- ton, in the year 1822. January, 319 lb. sold at market gl 13 64 February, 402 do. 1G9 67 March, 301 d* 171 31 April, 334 do. 165 50 May, Sib do. 148 96 June, 448 do. 127 19 July, 490 do. ■ 147 50 .August, 458 do. 159 90 September, 272 do. 126 98 October, 267 do. 129 53 November, 2821. do. 134 81 December, 291 do. 138 84 4296i lbs. sold, average '4! els. per. lb. gl763 83 8601 x^so.d in this year. 56i given to Mrs. Onion. 521. "4 lbs. made this j'ear. Sold ton veal calves for gS 00 A'ativc Race nf Cattle— 'Mr. Asa Rice, jr. of Shrewsbury, in W^orcester county, has brought to the Brighton Market the following Cattle, all of his own raising and fatting, weighing after being slaughtered, as follows : A Steer, t years old, Feb. 10, 1821, slaugh- tered on the llth Oct. same year, 1519 lbs.; Slaughtered Feb. 2, 1823, a Steer, 4 years old, the 12th April, 1581 lbs.; Feb. 2, 1823 a Cow, 13 years old last Spring, 1091 lbs. ; Feb. 2, 1823, a Heifer, 3 years old the 14th May, 911 lbs. These cattle were wholly of native breed. The Steers were weaned at 12 weeks old, and fed with nothing but hay and grass until they entered their fifth year. The Cow brought a calf at two years old, and every year since but the last. — She was milked last winter, turned out in ;he spring, thin in flesh, and began mealing the 1st of October last. The Heifer brought a calf at two years old, and another last spring; and was dried the last of July, and turned out, as thin as any other cow ; and was fatted on ac- count of a blemish which would eventually have spoiled her. k 2;i2 •TS'EW ENGLAND FARMER. REMARKS 0\ THE niPROVF.MLNT OF CATTLE, fcc. J.I a Litlcr to Sir John Saunders Sebright, Bart. M. P. by Mr. John ff'ilkmson, of Lenton, near J^'otlin<^- ham. Let each ^uccccdinj race employ your care, Distinguish which to shuighter, which to spare ; Mark well the lineage, — kt the purest make, From purest blood, its just proportions take. Having read, sir, your valuable treatise on the improvement of live stock, in a letter to Sir Joseph Banks, that great patron of all sci- ence ; I have taken tlie liberty to enlarge upon some of your observations, and to olTer to your consideration such fresh matter as appeared to me of importance to the subject. And this I have been encouraged to do, not only on ac- count of the great pleasure you always take in questions of this nature ; but also, because ma- ny of your assertions are corroborated by my own experience. It has always occurred to me, that in order to understand the true art of breeding, we must have recourse to the first principles ; and that it will be easier to show how any improved breed may be continued, when we have previ- ously shown how it was first formed. In the following remarks, I shall confine my- self chiefly to neat cattle, as being that species of anitnal with which I am more particularly concerned ; but it will be easy to perceive that the observations there advanced, will bo appli- cable, in a greater or less degree, to every oth- er kind which is destined to be the food of man. Whether the difl'eronl breeds with wliich we are now acquainted, descended originally from one common stock, the »vild Bison, i*; a question, 1 thiidi, hard to be determined. Of this how- ever, we may be assured, from the very nature of the case, that the distinct breeils at first, if more than one, could have been by no means numerous; so that the great variety which we behold at present, is owing to food, to climate, or to other collateral and accidental circumstan- ces. An1 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. miglit not soon produce its corresponding effect : lor the effect of cause, namely, the tendency of feeding, would remain unopposed in its effects, and be wholly operative. The assumption however here mentioned, ought never to have been made : as well might it have been con- tended by those who had seen only a bad race of hard fleshed animals, that lliere were there- fore no other kind, that would jiroducc a much greater quantity of beef from a given fjuantlty of food. But secondly, to ccme to the matter of fact, and to speak from experience itself .Some an- imals have the power of obtaining a greater de- gree of nourishment from a given quantity of lood, tlian others of an inferior description ; and therefore, though some of the former may give a larger quantity of milk than the latter, yet their carcasses also, m.iy at the same lime, be better supported. And 1 have frequently found cows that are great milkers, to keep them- selves at the same time in high condition, to feed with the quickest despatch when drieil of their milk, and whose descendants will arrive at the earliest maturity ; a practical proof, that a great tendency to feeding is nnt incompati- ble with a great tendency to milking. Those alsp who are anxious to witness the same thing, mny have it shown to them when they please, as many such animals can be produced. I suspect the assertion here controverted, originated not so much with those who have clone nothing towards the improvement of cat- tle, as with those who have been content with doing but little. These latter being anxious to .sell bet'ore they had sufficiently improved their own breeds, asserted, and asserted truly, that where cattle are to be bred for the slaughter, it is of more consequence to have them early feeders than great milkers. Of this 1 have no doubt ; for if only one of these properties could be obtained, I am tully persuaded, that the form- er would be more advantageous than the latter. But if on the contrary both can be combined, and that they can, 1 am convinced by experi- ence ; we shall not think very highly of those breeds which possess but oije of them. For ■who, that is conversant in these things, does not know the great dift'erence between the value of the produce of two cows, the one a good and the other a bad milker, if we take that pro- duce for one year only ? 1 shall not here men- tion the great quantity of milk that some of my own cows have given, and the short time that it has afterwards required to feed them, lest it should seem to partake of au air of boast- ing. U'hen we consider the skill, the perseverance, and the capital required to improve a breed in the carcass only, it is not surprising that so few have attempted it; and when we consider, that the union of great milking with quickness of feeding, required a two fold labor; we might almost wonder that it has been undertaken at nil. Cut yet sir, whatever difficullies may lie in the way, every Breeder who aims at supe- riority, must follow the excellent advice vvhich you have given ; and with respect to which, I cannot do better, than quote your own words. " We should, therefore, endeavor to obtain all the pioperties that are essential to the animals we breed." .\nd this rule was surely practi- cable in the case before us ; by selecting those animals that were the most perfect in point of form, in quality of flesh, and so on ; and again by selecting out of these the very best milkers, using in other respects the same care as I have mentioned in a former part of my letter. Such a procedure in the formation of a breed, clear- ly adds very considerably to the expense in the first instance ; but the advantages afterwards de rived are more than a sufficient compensation, as the property of milking is inherited as readi- ly as that ot peculiarity of shape. (to BF. CO.NTI.NIEP.) From the American fanner. CIDER ROY.\L AND BARLEY COFFEE. ^'ineyarJ, near Georgdowu, Feb. 8, 1C23. J. S. Skinnkp., Esq. Dear Sir — I observe in ,ypur Farmer of yes- terday, a receipt to make Cider Oil, as you call it — I have some doubts that the person who furnished you with the receipt, is ignorant of what it exactly is ; as well as of the manner of making it — 1 have seen it made very often by Germans, and it is by them called cider royal; and by putting sassafras, or any thing else to flavor it, I am certain would injure it; the way I have seen it made is as follows : To make Cider Royal. Take a clean well hooped cask, and burn a sul- phur match in it, and keep the bung close stop- ped for about two hours ; then put in four gal- lons of good apple or cider brandy ; then take four gallons of the cider immediately from the press, and put it to the brandy, shaking the bar- rel well to absorb the sulphurous gas, (the ci- der ought to be strained through a flannel,) and then fill the barrel with the cider before any fermentation has taken place, and bung up the barrel tight immediately, and put it in a cool place, and rack it ofi" in March folloiving. If it is not line when racked, it may be fined with the whites of eggs — and as soon as quite bright, rack it again into a clean cask and it will keep for years. Some persons do not sul- phur the cask, under an idea that it produces head-ache ; others put but three gallons of brandy and from ten to twelve pounds of sugar to it. It is, if properly made, and of good ci- der, a fine vinous beverage, to drink in sum- mer, when diluted with water; and in the Ger- man Counties of Pennsylvania, it was the favor- ite drink, when they got any refreshment at taverns, by all those persons who could not af- ford to get wine. Those persons that 1 knew most famous for making good cider royal, put rye whiskey to it instead of br.indy, as it soon- er became assimilated to the cider and vinous than brandy ; that is, it was not to be tasted, when brandy could always be discovered by a nice palate. Brandy put to cider or wine af- ter it is well fermented, never loses its flavor in cither cider or wine, and instead of becoming vinous, as it ought to be, by fermentation, it is only branded cider, or what used to be called, some ;i() or 40 years ago, Sampson ; which was one gill of brandy or other spirits, put to a tan- kard of cider, which always produced head- aches. You also, in the last Farmer, make mention of the naked Barley — i remember it for at least fifty years, and it was used by the German farmers of a part of York County, Pennsyl- vania, and Frederick County, Maryland, to make coffee of; and I recollect of hearing it spoken of as infinitely superior to Rye, as to its flavo and salubrity— but I do not recollect of seein| ' it for upwards of thirty years ; but former!- I have seen it brought to Y'ork Town, Penn ' sylvania, and Frederick Town, Maryland, fo sale by the name of Coffee Barley — The Ger mans called it " Coffcdgerst.'"' To make Barley Coffee. Roast it in the manner that common coffee i: roa=ted, then take one portion of coffee t( about as much as one third of the quantity yoi commonly use for one meal ; then take thret times that quantity of the roasted barley whol (not being ground) and boil it by itself, ther strain through a tin strainer, with smaller holes than a cullender ; put that liquor over the first portion of coffee and make in the usual manner I knew a very respectable Clergyman, who was fond of some of the good things of this world ; that for several years, I was acquainted in his family, always used his coffee made in the abovo manner — and he used it, because he thought it an improvement on foreign coffee P. S. — I have called on a Germaa's son, now middle aged, who says that he has often assist- ed his father in making Cider Royal, and he says, that roy receipt for making it is correct. — His father was famous for making good cider royal of the best quality. He himself, attempt- ed this last year to make one barrel of it, and it turns out to be as hard as the hardest cider. — He spoke to a person who makes good cider, and one whom he could depend on, and gave him an extra price : the cider was made early in the morning, and brought to him before 9 o'clock ; he immediately drew off some of the cider, and put to it ten pounds of sugar, and four gallons ofapple brandy, and bunged them up tight immediately. He attributes the hardness to a fermentation having taken place before the sug.u- and lirandy was put to it, instead of the sugar and brandy being put into the cask first. ilica- s to be rubbed on the parts affected, which poor Horn Distemper. This is a disease which has its sent in the lonis. Cows are more subject to it than oxen, am! It does not attack bulls; and steers and heif- ers, under three years old, it is said, are not subject to it. The distemper causes the pith of the horn to be gradually consumed. It is most commonly confined to one horn only, but sometimes appears in both. It is occasioned by poor keeping, by which the blood becomes thin and reduced, and does not circulate properly in the extremities. It is discovered by the slug- gishness of the animal, loss of appetite, a cold- ness of the horn, and a disposition to lie down. To cure the disease, the horn should be bored with a nail gimblet in such a manner as to eftect the discharge of the matter which has become purulent. The hollow part should be well cleansed by vinegar in which a portion of salt has been dissolved, to be injected by a syringe. Dr. Deane recommended the injection of a mix- ture of rum and honey, with myrrh and aloes. Stimulating medicines, such as ginger, spices, S:c. h.ive been given, but these are injurious uiilil the bowels have been evacuated. Laxa- *ites. however, such as sulphur, glauber's salts, &.C. prove serviceable; and after the bowels are evacuated, and the horn well cleansed, good keeping will be necessary to efl'ect the cure. Tail Sickness. " This is a distemper attended with weakness and sluggishness to which horned cattle are lia- ble in the spring. The end of the tail becomes hollow, and relaxed, but not, as some have as- serted, destitute of feeling. A cure is easily effected by the amputation of a small piece of the tail, which will be attended with a discharge of some blood. But when the tail is but littlo affected, and near to the end, a slit of an inch or an inch and an half, in the end of the tail, is preferable to amputation." Ulcers. An ulcer is " a solution of the soft part of an animal body, together with the skin."' The symptoms of an ulcer, which is in a wav to be healed, are granulations, or little eminences, arising from the surface of a florid or reddisfi color, small in size, and pointed at the top ; the discharge, white and thick. This wiil gener- ally be eflected by giving the animal perfect rest, using mild and simple ointments, such as are composed of oil and bees' wax, or hoo-"s lard, which is not rancid. Turpentine and lard melted together m ike a good ointment. The toilowlng has likewise been recommended : Goose grease i lb. Hog's lard 2 lb. Red Lead 3 oz. Pulverized alum l lb. incorporated. A little sulphur and nitre may be given by way of alterative. If the ulcer assumes an inflamed state, and the surface is covered with a brown tran'^parent matter, the folluuing fomentation will prove useful. Camomile flowers i u> AVormwood, a large handful. Bay and Juniper berries, each 4 oz. Beer or ale grounds, emptins or jeiist ■ 0 q(s Vinegar 1 ^(. The whole to be boiled for a quarter of an hour. Leeches applied to the edges of the ulcer will be serviceable, and purges of giauber salts or epsom salts. If the ulcer becomes black and fetid, with a cessation of every inflammatory symptom, and there appears to be danger of mortificalion, give an ounce of Peruvian bark every four hours ; a little opium may be joined with it. Fomentation with hot vinegar will be found useful. When the parts suppurate, cut off the dead matter with a knife, and afterwards dress with some simple ointment. If there is too rapid a growth of fungous matter, or what is called proud flesh, it may be well to rub in a small quantity of the following caustic over the whole surface of the preter- natural growth, -vith a spatula. Soft soap J oz. Arsenic x oz Oil of vitriol | oz. Spirits of lavender i d,.. The soap and arsenic to be mixed first, and then the vitriol added by degrees. The whole may then be covered with the digestive oint- ment of tar and turpentine, prepared as men- tioned in No. 29, page 226, 2d col. Ey these means part of the growth will become dead in a few days, which may be cut or pared oft', and the same caustic application made to the re- maining part till the whole is destroyed. In ulcers in fleshy parts there is often a pre- ternatural callous, or hardened growth. This must be destroyed before a cure can be com- pleted. In this case, the before mentioned caustic must be applied, but used with caution. The hard part is to be rubbed with it for half the extent ot' the swelling, beginning at the ori- fice. The dead parts are then to be cut away every two or three days, and the application is to be repeated fill the cure is complete. We have now concluded, for the present, our observations on the diseases of Neat Cattle It is probable wo may have omitted to take notice of some disorders to which they may be sub- jected ; and, if so, should be glad to supply the defect ; and would be much obliged to' any friends or correspondents who may be so good as to point ont any errors which we may have committed, either through inadvertency or mis- information. Any remarks which may relate io disorders peculiar to our climate, will be particularly acceptable 253 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. The doses prescribed arc intended for cows, which have nearly or allogolher acquired tlieir groivth. Oxen or ballocks having stronger constitutions than cow5, will be men' subject to innammatory diseases, especially when exposed to labor. The remedies heretofore recommend- ed, must therefore be increased in q\)antity when applied to full grown males. Dr. Skoliett says that the bullock must be hied and purged, &c. a third more than the row, which will be a proper general rule to be observed in all his di.=eascs. This rnle, however, must be moditi- ed, like every other general rule, according to the circumstances of the case, and the judgment of the practitioner. Calves are subject to many of the diseases of cows, and in most cases their treatment must be the same, except that the means employed, such as bleedmg, purging, &c. should be dimin- ished about one third of what has buen directed for the cow ; making discretionary allowance for the difference of age, the animals. size, and condition of ORIGINAL COMMUNICATIONS. FOR THE NEW ENGLAND FARMER. Mr. Editor — I have been a reader of your paper ever since its commencement, and 1 now begin to think it is high time forme to make a communication to you, which I believe will be benelicial to ray agricultural brethren, and if you are of the same opinion, you will please to publish it, or such part of it, as you see cause. The subject which I i)ropose, is that of the more extensive cultivation of Oats. Various are the kinds of oats.. The Barley or Scotch oats, so called, 1 have cultivated, but not with very great success ; their weight is generally about 12 lbs. per bushel. — I have seldom been able to raise more than from 20 lo 25 bushels per acre. The black oafs I have cultivated; their weight is about 3G lbs. per bushel, and produce about as many bushels per acre as the barley or Scotch oats. The greatest objection I have to the barley or Scotch oats, is, that they must be harvested suddenly after they are fit, in order to prevent waste. The com- mon oats which are raised, I consider prefera- ble. My average crop of late years has been iVora 40 to 50 bushels per acre, and in one in- stance G'} bushels per acre. I make oats principally, and generally speak- ing, my first crop in the line of a rotation of crops. I break up the piece intended for this crop in the fall, if possible, and in the spring cross plough and liarrow tlioroughly liefore I 'sow my grain ; then harrow again until the turf is well pulverized; then sow ten bushels of clover seed chaff per acre, and roll it in. As soon as the grain is harvested, and the young clover has received its growth, I plough it in. This clover with the stubble, is about equal to a common dressing of compost manure. In the fall plough, in tiie spring I cross plough, after taking from my compost heap thirty loads per acre, which are carefully spread. The lot then being well harrowed and furrowed is ready for planting, cither with corn, potatoes, or turnips. This is my second crop. For my third crop 1 again sow wheat, peas, tiax, oats, &c. and stock the lot down with herds grass and red top, which I believe make the best of hay. 1 let the lot remain in grass three years. Thus you will observe I till three years, and mow or pas- ture three years. My first and third crop is principally oats. I have frequently been told that oats and corn were very impoverishing crops; but I find no difficulty in enriching my land as above stated. Ten years ago my average crop of corn was from 30 to 40 bushels per acre. But in pass- ■ng over a lot the second time which was man- aged as above in the summer of 1821, 1 had the satisfaction of harvesting 96 bushels of corn per acre, and received the Society's premium. My other crops liave advanced in about the same proportion. The inquiry will naturally be made, what I do with my oats? Well, sir, after I have re- served for my stock and for seed, I take the re mainder to my mill and manufacture them into tlour and meal. It will be understood that the oats are kiln dried, then hulle9 pounds of well dres- sed FUx, and six bushels and twenty two quarts clean seed. In the fall of 1821, the land was sowed with wheat, having been jireviously ma- nured wiih fifteen loads ol yard manure. The winter killed a good part of the wheat. In the -pring of 1822, the land was ploughed — it be- ing very mellow, the soil a sandy loam — then dressed with a harrow, and sowed one bushel cif the Long Island seed, then harrowed it in, 'julled the flax in July, and dressed the same in January and February, 1823. A letter received from a black man in Hayti, who emigrated there from Rhode Island some time since, peaks in high terms of the prospects in Uiat island for settlers, •260 TVEW ENGLAND FARMER. IlKMAUKS ON THE IMPROVEMENT OF CATTLE, &c. In a letter to Sir John Saundtrs Sebright, liart. M. P. by .Mr. John If'dkinson, of Lenlon, near A'olling- ham. Let each succeeding race employ your care. Distinguish which to slaughter, which to spare ; Hark well the Uncage, — kt the purest make, From purest blood, its just proportions take. {Continued from page 254.) With respect to the value of different breeds as milkers only, some persons hsve attended solely to the quantity of milk given by each cow, while others have had re!!;ard only to the quality. But it is certain that this value roust depend on the quantity and quality jointly, yield- ed from a given quantity of food.* By a given quantity of food is to be understood, not mere- ly the same weight, but the same weight of the same kind and quality also ; and in any experi- ment, it ouglit moreover to be given under sim- ilar circumstances. The time too allowed for an experiment of this nature ought to be at least a whole year; because some breeds will give a great quantfty of milk just after calving, but will not yield that quantity for any consid- erable time ; while others will not give so great a quantity at tirst, but will approximate to it much longer. As to the number of the cows, it need by no means be the same in two or more cases of trial ; but the proper number for the consumption of the proposed quantity of food. For the question is not, whether the pro- duce of so many of one breed, be more valua- ble than the produce of the same number of any other; but what will be the value of the produce afforded by a certain quantity of food, when bestowed on the one, compared with the value of the produce afforded by the same quantity of the same kind of food, when be- stowed on any other; remaining circumstances being as similar as possible. In comparing the value of any one breed with the value of any other, in reference to the sham- bles, it is very evident, that the placing out cer- tain quantities of different kinds to feed, and ■omparing the increase of weight in each case \vith the quantity of food consumed, will never determine the question. Because, here the question is not which have paid the best for a certain period, but which have paid the best during the ^vhole course of their lives; the dif- ferent breeds being killed at that particular age which will give to them respectively the max- imum of profit. That there is a certain age which is the most profitable for disposing of one kind ; but another age, and far difl'erent, the most prutitable for another, is a circum- stance well known (o every practical farmer. — Some breeds cannot easily be made fat till they are three or four years old ; while otliers are capable of being so at any age we may think *Thib I think is so obvio';, that I need not attempt to explain tlic fa'jt itself; but only mention after what manner experiments ought to be made. Hence too it very clearly follows, that the determining of what quantity of cream is produced from a given quantity of milk, will never ascertain the relative value of dif- rrent biecds as milkers. This rule indeed is defec- tive on its own principles, as it will by no means as- certain even the quality ; for the cream of some cows is far richer than that of others, and will yield a much greater proportion of butter. proper. I believe the most profitable age for disposing of fat cattle of the improved short horned breed, is from two to three years old. ac- cording to circumstances at the time of sale. — In all experiments of this nature, there are ma- ny and great difficulties to encounter in order to render the comparisons just ; we may, how- ever, proceed with a sufficient degree of accu- racy to determine what breeds arc unquestiona- bly the best ; and the greater excellence has always been yielded to those which arrive at the earliest maturity. I now come to the descent or lineage of ani- mals ; and so vast is the importance of this part of my subject, that 1 thought I could not do bet- ter than notice it in the title page itself And for the same reason also, 1 may be allowed to quote your own words, which are so apposite to my present purpose, and so perspicuous in the delineation of the truth you wish to incul- cate ; a truth which can never be too fully im- pressed on the minds of those who are engaged in the improvement of stock. They are as fol- lows : " ilegard should not only be paid to the qualities apparent in animals selected for breed- ing, but to those which have prevailed in the race from which they are descended, as they will alwa3's show themselves, sooner or later, in the progeny : It is for this reason that we should not breed from an ani-.ial, however excellent, unless we can ascertain it to be what is called xccil bred ; that is, descended from a race of an- cestors, who have, through several generations, possessed, in a Jiigh degree, the properties which it is our object to obtain."' This obser- vation of yours, sir, appears to me so compre- hensive, so clear, and yet at the same time so concise, that I dare not attempt either to add or take from it ; I will only endeavor to illustrate it by some familiar example, and as many are more conversant with the color of animals than the excellence of their shapes, it may not be amiss to refer to the former. Suppose, then a number of pure Devon cows to be crossed with a breed of perfectly white bulls; in this case it is probable some of the calves would be perfectly red, others white, and the greater part would partake of these colors jointly. If we were now to take the red heifers produced by this cress, and put them to a Devon bull, it would not be a matter of any great surprise, if some of their progeny, though sprung from red parents, should be perfectly white, and still less, that several should be mixed with this color though it would not by any means be so proba- ble as in the former instance. And were we thus to proceed through several generations this white color would be less and less ap- parent in the breed, but would most prob- ably occasionally shew itself in some individ- ual or other. If on the other hand, we were to breed from pure Devons only, that is from those that have been carefully bred for a great length of time, we should reasonably expect their offspring to be of the same color with the parents themselves ; while any deviation from this, would be looked upon as one of those changes, which nature sometimes produces out of the common course of things. And what has here been asserted of color, is equally ap- plicable to peculiarity of form, or quality of flesh. When a breed is once brought to that degree of perfection it is capable ol, the same care must be used in the continuance, as was shoi( ^'l in the formation itself; or as you have just ^ observed, " what has been produced by ai 'f" must be continued by the same means."' Fo "" though animals that are themselves good, ai "'" have also been descended from a long race '" valuable progenitors, are by no means likely '•■" produce, even in a single instance, a bad o, ''"''' spring ; yet 1 think it will no more be conten '"''" ed. that every animal produced by the same p "J rents, is precisely of the same value, than th •* the red color in the Devon cattle is precisely '"' the same shade in each individual, or that tl '*'' horjis of the Lancashire are exactly of the sam ''!" length. It has already been observed indee i** that there is a strong tendency for like to pri '■'''' dace like, that there is a slight tendency I K change, and that nature, moreover, somctim •"' deviates from her common course. If, ho» *'•" ever, such a deviation takes place, it may b k continued; as experience teaches both in tb '*' animal and vegetable kingdom. And hence wi '"' very clearly follow, the impropriety of kee| *' ing a bad animal, on pretence that it is well d( i'" scended; an error which some Breeders hav •^'" fallen into, if not in judgment, at least in prai * tice. Hence also it will appear, that this defei «' live kind of animal of which 1 have been jui *' speaking, is generally produced from some mil f* ture of impure blood, or that the breed has bee ''^= declining through several generations ; in e: la- ther of which cases it can never be said to b 'i well descended. For, in order that an anim: *s may be well bred, it is not sufficient that we ar s» able to trace it to parents, the most perfect ( !^ their kind; but every intermediate gradatio !' ought also to be good. It will appear too, froii '■ what has been advanced on the formation, tbiM descent, and continuance of improved stoclnct that no animal can be depended upon for breet 'ti ing, but what is in itself good, and is moreovc well bred in the strictest sc/ise of the words. If may not be improper to observe, both wit. respect to the improvement and the decline c breeds, that they are in general gradual, ani proceed but slowly through several generations * And hence, it is not at all inconsistent to say that " animals have at length been produced ve ry unlike their original slock;" and yet, at th-f same time, there is a strong tendency for '• like t produce like." But this remark respecting thi slowness of change, refers to distinct breeds and also where any particular family is not era- sed with others that are much better or mm worse of the same kind ; nor does it include ad ventitious circumstances, as pasturage, climate kc. And it is on account of this slowness o procedure, that so many, ^vho have originalh engaged in the improvement of stock have beei obliged to expend a considerable sum of mone' before they could obtain any material advantage while those who have purchased of that stock, when improved, have reaped an immediate, and even a large profit. With respect to crossing distinct breeds ; il may be proper to divide the subject into one or two separate heads. And first, as to what may reasonably be expected from such a union. — i Here you remark, sir, that " you do not, by any means, approve of mixing two distinct breeds, with the view of uniting the valuably properties of both." And from what follows, 1 conclude the import of the words to be, with the view of uniting these properties in the fuH NEW ENGLAND FARxMER. 261 riection, in which they existed separately in ch. We h.ive occasionally been amused with :h pretensions, yet he who is a careful ob- rvcr of facts, will scarcely, 1 think, be inclin- to credit them. I have seen much of the ture of crossing, for reasons that I shall aftcr- irds mention, but never yet saw the accom- shraent of an object so desirable, as the full ainment of the good properties in each, with- t any mixture of the bad. Indeed it must be vious to every man of sense, that there is no ason to expect a perfect union of the former, ther than of the latter. The one are just as ely to be inherited as the other, and for the ve- same reason. The thing generally to be ex- cted from mixing the breeds of animals, pos- ssing properties differing in degree, in such union of those properties in the progeny, at they may be greater than in the ancestry the one side, but less than in that of the oth- : though it is also true, as you have observ- , and as I have before hinted, that the ofi- ring will sometimes nearly resemble one pa- nt only. In crossing the cart mare with a ood horse, no man expects to obtain from the oduce, the strength of the former, with the eed of the latter ; but an animal, that is swift- than the cart horse, yet incapable of drawing great a burthen. It does not follow, howev- , that no cross can be useful ; it may be very ich so. For instance, there are many situa- ns, which will readily suggest themselves to e mind, where an animal with less speed, or ■s strength, than such a one as might reasona- I be expected from the cross in the forego- j example, would by no means be so useful ; d yet, where more of either speed or ength, would be almost, if not altogether un- cessary. Again, it occasionally happens, that breed of cattle wliich is possessed of' the aatest excellence, may be too large for the sturage of a particular situation ; and yet a ■)ss from these might obtain a very considera- ! advantage. Or a breed, which is unprolita- ; on the whole, is sometimes kept for the te of a particular quality, which it possesses 80 high a degree, that it would scarcely be e worse, if this quality were somewhat di- .nisbed. And this I think is the case with the derney cow ; a breed which is kept by some the nobility and gentry, entirely on account the richness of the cream ; but yet, the quan- y of milk afforded by them is so small, as to ake them extremely unprofitable, even as ilkers. I have frequently known this breed be crossed however by a well-bred short )rned bull ; the produce are generally much tter milkers than the Alderneys; are more lautiful in their appearance, as not being so wboned ; and frequently come to a very con- derable weight. It will be inferred from what IS been already said, and it is an inference hich I have seen supported by numerous ex- aples ; that where one breed is inferior to an- her in each individual point, the worse will jnerally be improved by the better, not par- lily, but altogether. But where distinct :eeds possess their several advantages in dif- ircnt ways, to expect a full and complete un- ■n of the good qualities of each, without any ixture of the bad, is to expect a result, con- ary to the whole analogy of nature. 1 shall inquire secondly, whether a cross from fo distinct breeds can be ohiaiwA and covninu- ed^ so as to unite in almost an equal proportion, ihu properties of both; and I am fully of opin- ion that this can be accomplished. The former part of the question has, 1 think, been already answered : and 1 have seen the latter effected between the long and short horned cattle. In this neighborhood there were many dairies of long horned cows, descended from the stock of the late Jlr. Bakewell; and it was not at all surprising, that the possessors of such stock should be much prejudiced in their favor, on account of the eminence of so great a breeder. When however the improved short horned cat- tle began to make such rapid strides as they did about thirty years ago; many were willing to try a cross from them, but were not willing to proceed further for the present. This cross being extremely approved of, they rejected such as inclined too much after the one or the other; and continuing to breed from those that partook of the mean, a breed, usually called half horned ones, was at length established ; as well known by their particular characteristics, as either of the former. There is another mode of crossing, which has frequently been attended with the greatest ad- vantage for the improvement of inferior breeds; which is, by crossing the females of the worse with the males of the better, and their produce again in the same manner, through several suc- ceeding generations. By this method, the blood of the former will be more and more exhaust- ed, and a breed at length obtained nearly re- sembling the latter;* according to the example you have given of Merino — Ryeland Sheep. Since however, the blood of the former, though less and less in each succeeding generation, can never entirely be taken away ; it will follow that the value of the produce at any particular time, must depend partly on the value of the iemoles from whence the cross originally de- scended. I mentioned under the last head, a cross introduced by many in this neighborhood, between the Long and Short Horned Cattle, par- taking in nearly an equal proportion of the pro- perties of both. But afterwards, when the im- proved Short Horns had gained so complete an ascendency over the Long, and prejudice in fa- vor of the latter, was borne down by experi- ence ; this cross, as well as the remaining Long Horned Cows, were put to bulls of the former description, and their produce again, through many generations ; the result of which agrees with my present position ; namely, that the fu- ture crosses, at length, so nearly resembled the Short Horned Cattle, as scarcely to be distin- guished from them. The same thing has been effected by crossing Scot's in like manner ; and I doubt not, might be from any breeds whatever. It may be observed generally, and lastly, that no arguments against the system of crossing can be drawn from the naturet of the case ; because it is highly probable that the various breeds of * It has before been remarked on the subject of crossing;, that though the produce may be expected generally to partake of nearly an equal proportion of the properties of both ; yet it not unfrequently happens, that some individuals take very much after one parent, and some to the other. And hence it will follow, that the approximation above mentioned, may be accelerated or retarded by a judicious or improper election in each succeeding cross. t That crosses are unnatural, seems to be a phrase used by some, without understanding its meaning •, and taken upby others without cousideraticn. Cattle, descended originally from the commoi! stock; and it is ahsohttcly ciriaiii, thai the origi- nal breeds ii more than one, could not have been numcrou?. This, therefore, must iircessu- rily exclude all objections, drawn prior to expe- rience ; and experience itself has iVequcntly proved it to be higlily beneficial. I have al- ready mentioned a valuable cross, where rich- ness of cream is preferred, between the Alder- ney Cow and improved Short Horned Bull. 1 have seen moreover, both Devons, Ilerefords, Lancashire, and Scots, all crossed with these Bulls, and all producing very valuable Stock. In Lincolnshire also, they arc beginning to use them very much. Since indeed the improved Short Horned Cattle have been in such great request, as they have of late, there is scarcely any breed in the kingdom, where individu- als have not been crossed with them ; or any county into which some of them have not been sent. But it is proper to remark, that the object of every cross, as well as of every distinct breed, ought to be the attainment of an animal, adapt- ed to that particular situation, for which it is designed : for what may be most advantageous in one situation may be unprofitable in another. And unless this observation be attended to, we can never reasonably look forward to success. For instance, though I consider the improved Short Horned Cattle as by far the best for the country at large, yet there are situations where I should by no means recommend them. I do not think that the mountains of Scotland could be better stocked, than with that hardy, nimble little race, which at present possesses them ; while some of their more fertile situations, might very well bear a cross from the breed just mentioned ; and some the breed itself. On the otlier hand, scarcely any greater blessing could befal Ireland, than the introduction of the breed to a considerable extent. For land which is capable of bringing to any tolerable state of condition, a race of such hard, bad fleshed ones, as are generally found to infest that country, would be capable of bringing a better kind to the greatest state of perfection. Nothing can be more contradictory than what has frequently been advanced by various per- sons on the whole system of crossing ; the un- derstatement of some, seems only to have call- ed forth the overstatement of others ; and in- terest or prejudice have rarely been forgotten. It would have been well, Sir, had some of these gentlemen attended to you on the subject ; they would have been directed to an example where the result was likely to be beneficial, and their own reflections might have suggested many more. They would have seen also the idea of the union of the good properties, existing separately in distinct breeds, ■without any mixture of the bad, discarded on the ground both of reason and ex- perience. In a word, they might have perceiv- ed, what they ought reasonably to expect, and what they ought not. The reason I have been thus diffuse in the present part of the inquiry, is, that prejudice may not prevent a partial improvement, where a full and perfect one cannot be immediately ef- fected ; and to save others an expense, which some have unnecessarily incurred. Several gentlemen who have been convinced of the great advantage of improved Short Horned Cat- tle, have CO sooner been in possession of a bull 262 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. and one or two heifers, than they have wished for more. On account of tlie demand liowever, it haa frcquenlly happened, that they have not been able to be supplicil nith a crreat number for the present. To remedy thi^, tliey liave bought lip sonic of the best Short Horned Cows they conld meet with in the market, many of wljicb, as might have been expected, have not nnsivered tlie end proposed. My advice, there- fore, to such cjentlemcn, is rather to cross the Cows they alroady po3sc.^'< with the improved Short Horned Lull; and graihnilly t" get rid of them and their progeny, as the stock I'rom their thorough-hrcd heifers continues to increase. By this means a pure breed would shortly be ob- tained ; and, in the cieantime, the rest, greatly improved. It would alVord, moreover, an op- portunity of comparing the improved Short Horned Cattle with the stock that had previ- ously been kept; and conviction arising from experience, is always to be preferred to bare assertion. It can scarcely be expected, that 1 should en- ter particularly into the praises of the improved breed of .Short Horned Cattle, as it would have too much the appearance of extolling a race of animals because in one's own possession. 1 thought it would be better to confine myself to general rules, and to shew by what means the best of each kind may invariably be discov- ered. 1 have en defect, which still exists in this grazing State ;' is the parsimony of our farmers as to food, anc ^i attention, particularly as it respects young cattle , and milch cows. But the principal object of my present re marks, is a suggestion, directly applied lo th( Committee, on the larger class of animals, o which Committee I have been lor several years the Chairman. The criticisms of the writer tc tfr which I shall confine myself, are the Ibllowin " My objections, says the writer, are to the lii^gl premiums vniformty given to imported stod; and the general preference of huge, over grown high fed animals. Cannot the native slock o cattle in this State (by liberal patrona>;e.) bf improved to as great perfection as any l"'hat car be imported ?" The writer then proceeds fc slate that our race of cattle is of the Devon shire breed, and that it is proved by the '-noble experiments" made there (in England) durinn the last half century, that very little depends o? the original stock, and every thing on a careful and skilful selection of the best breeders. Now it so happens that the Trustees of the Massachusetts .Agricultural Society have ahvavs entertained precisely the same opinions with those expressed by the writer in the Old Colony Memorial, though it seems from the want oi precision in their expressions, or from some other cause, they have not been understood. The writer alluded to is mistaken as to tha facts in the following particulars : I 1st. High preminms are never given lo im- ported stock, when put in competition with our own. There never has been a competition be-i tween imported stock, and our own stock, at the Cattle Shows. Imported stock are not can- didates for any premium whatever. The error of the Old Colony w riter has arisen from his confounding the reward we pay (not out of the legislative funds, but our own,) for the importa- tion of a tew improved animals. Thus, we encouraged the introduction of Me- rino Sheep — and recently of the Dishlcy and long-woolled Leicester Sheep—and we also ot- I fered a reward for the importation of the im- proved breeds of Cattle ; but they do not com- pete with our o-ji-n in. any case. If Bakewcll and Princeps and their successors have, during a period of fifty years, so improved their stock of horned cattle, as that a bull of the best improv- ed race will sell for forty times the price of a' common bull, is it not judicious in us to save a part of this long process of improvement by importing one already improved ? 2d. The second error into which the Old Colony Farmer has fallen, was in supposing we preferred huge, over-grown animals. So far from this, we have done every thing in our power to discourage such animals, both by our remarks, and our premiums. We give the pre- ference always to animals of little bone, and great flesh, which shew an early and ready dis- position to fatten. 3d. He was mistaken in supposing the Tri* NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 267 . - h;ul nt\y tiling to do with these questions. Ill TO i'' liiit one Trustee on ii Committee, and • unlinariiy i(ivos no o[)inion. Tlia persons ho decide are farmers, and persons who put ) cattle tor beef. A man who buys 500 oxen a vear, handles them, and has them cut up, u-t be a better judge than any practical far- o[ owning 20 or M head of cattle. Such prac- ral purchasers are not apt to mistake a long, Ilk, raw-boned animal tor a profitable one. We are happy to tuid that we agree entirely ith the Old Colony Farmer in the princifiex hich should *ovcrn us. The only question is ic of fact, whether we have acted up to our inciplcs? This rests, not upon the Trustees, jt «n the gentlemen selected I'or their skill. — is true that the crosses from foreign breeds lYO been generally prefened, but it was be- lusc (not the Trustees) but the committee of lependeiit Farmers thought them generally ;tter formed — of finer, and more delicate limbs better ad.ipted to fatten, and on the ivliole ler animals, than the native ones offered at the me time. So far is it from being generally ue, that these animals were more huge or •ergrown, it is a fact, that the native bull? ere of'ten much the most gross, heavy and larse. It should be recollected, that almost erv premium has been awarded either to na- ■e animals, or to those of half-blood, one par- it being native. The only object of these remarks is to pro- ote the cause of truth, and to remove unfoun^- I prejudices. 2'he Chairman of the Committee on Premiums for Cattle., at the last Brighton Shozi:. ) THE EDITOR or THE XEW E.NX.LAXD FARMER. Dear 8!R— How is it that tlie Trustees ol" tlie Mas- husctts Society for promoting; Agriculture, do not en- ua?e tlic breeding; of that useful aninia] the Horse — an eiKjniry frequently made, particularly by the ■nds of the Turf. One of Mr. ]-.o\veirs reasons was itself conclusive — that no encouragement was ncc- ary, for j;ood horses would command a °:reat price anv market in the United States. On reading the ler'ican Farmer of Feb. '28th, No. 40, vol. 1, p. 390, bserre a Virginian addresses the Editor on the breed- • of horses in that state, and furnishes a precious con- sion of facts ; if you think as well of it as t do, wish i would give it a place iu your next paper, and Ige your friend and bumble servant, GORHAM PARSON'S. Brishton, March 10, 1S23. From tlie American Farmer. J'irginia, Fehntary Wth. Mr. Skccnt-r — The symptoms of a revival in e long laid spirit of the turf, together with veral pieces, which have appeared in the iblic prints, upon the improvement of our ick of horses, setting forth erroneous views the subject, as 1 conceive, will be my apol- ■y for troubling you with the following re- jrks, for the American Farmer, should you em them worthy a place in its columns. Perhaps the novelty of the opinion, that the 5te and passion for racing, so far from contri- iting to, has retarded the progress of improve- ent in our horses, may attract some curiosity ; it, when it is stated further, to be an opm- ;i deliberately formed, upon an experience of enty year's breeding, commenced under the U impression, that' the English race hor.se was e perfection of the species, 1 may hope for patient reading, from all whose minds are en to conviction. The essential pouits of the English turf horse, are, a thin :uul deep shoulder, narrow breast, ilelicale clean legs, long in tlie pasterns, a broad or wide hock well let down, and a thigh or haunch more remarkable for length than bulk. \ long back more common than a short one, and a body oftoner flat sided than round — and, finally, the taller the better, hot not less than sixteen hands, for a first rate courser. This carcass and set of limbs is covered by a skin so thin and a coat of hair so fine, as to ex- press the very veins as well as the muscles, be- neath the delicate integument. .\ long, low, slouching carriage, in every gait, follows as a consequence of the above form and proportions. The very best calculated, truly, for a four mile heat, on a smooth course, but that it is totally unsuiled to the road, I will use no other argument to prove, than one which all sagacious readers will have deduced already from the premises, if it were rvot esta!)lished by the known general rule, that " a race horse is a ?tumbler."' Fqually disqualified by the nature of his skin, is he for the harness — the slightest pressure producing a gall — and as unsuited are his long legs and limber pasterns to the frequently dcci) stale, and irregular surface of our roads, that a horse of compact form au 1 nimble movements, with a strong coat on his back and shoulders, and not within a hand of his height, will always be found more lasting and serviceable, fltoreover, the running stock arc frequently vicious and un- manageable, and very generally so shy and tim- id, as to render Ihem in a great degree unfit for the purpose of war. In England, the.horses of this strain, arc rarely used, but to contribute to the most ruinous and expensive of their pleas- ures*— and I am strongly inclined to the opin- ion, that the highest style of the English race horse, which it has been a very prevalent fblh with us to take as our model, is a forced anom- aly in the species, introduced and propagated by a prodigality of attention and expense, such as the enormous wealth of the nobility of England is alone able to sustain. The noble animal to be cherished as the companion of our manly pleasures and glorious achievements, should be of the form for power, docile and courageous In his temper, quick, firm and clear in his movements. These proper- ties are found for the most part connected with roundness of contour and strength of articula- tion ; with a texture of skin and strength of coat, which will bear the pressure of the sad- dle and the friction of the harness ; and as far as my experience has gone, it is rare, that you find a horse of this description exceeding fif- teen hands and a half high. All the finest hors- es in the world, may be traced to the Arabian stock. The English race horse Is of Arabian descent, with the peculiar objections above de- scribed, but whicli 1 am happy in believing, the Author of Nature has kindfy decreed shall nev- er be made indigenous to our soil and climate. The English blooded stock, tho' kept pure and uncrossed, essentially change their characters after a few generations in our climate, and man- ifestly for the better, as to every rational and useful purpose. The native \'irginia horse of the third and fourth generation, from the light and washy figures of the purest English stock, * It may be safely asserted, that racing Ixas put more of the estates of the Englisli nobility to uurse, than any other siugle cause. become less tall, with more bulk, shorter and stronger jointed, with a thicker and coarser coat; with Ihese changes, there is a correspon- dent one in gaits and carriage. They are more active and sprightly in their movements, and better able to stand the vicissitudes of our climale. Our food, our climate, and our man- agement are quite sufFicient to account for these changes. Our maize, w hich forms three- fourths of the grain fed to our horses, in the parls of the slates below the mountains, (where our best horses are found.) is by far more nu- tricious than tho oafs of Europe, oi- any other grain used for the food of" horses in any other country. Our ujuog horses arc more exposed to the weather, and when taken in hand are not put into close and warm stables, and ciotbed, as is generally the case in Englaiui. It is a fact well known to the a;natcurs in this favourite -aninial of the X'irginians, that we abounded much more in a tine race of horses for the saddle and the harness thirty years ago than at this day. This \w:\s jirecisely the pe- riod when the descendints.of some of the best of the Englisli slock which had been early im- ported into the colony, had become acciHiiafeJ and fully naturalized — and I have but little doubt had we proceeded upon the rational plan of breeding solely with an eye to qualities for ser- vice, rather th.m the >vorsc than useless prop- erties for the turf, Virginia would now have had the most valuable race of horses in the world ; but uufbrtunatoly, almut twenty five or thirty years ago, the late Colonel Htonies, of Bowling Green, of well known racing memoiy, and many others, availing themselves of the passion for racing, inundated the state with im- ported English race horses, well nigh to the ex- tinclion of the good old stocks of Janus, and Fearnaught, and .lolly Fioger, and Mark An- llionj', and Selini, and Peacock, and many oth- er but little less tried and approved racers. The dillicully of getting a tine saddle horse has of late become a general remark ; and when you do find one, with the exception of now and then a Diomed or Bedford cross, you rarely hear of any other of the late Imported blood in his veins. The descendants of Cormorant, and Sterling, and Spread Eagle, and Seagull, and Buzzard, and Dare Devil, and Oscar, and Sal- trum, and twenty others which might be added, are either extinct or still languisliing through the probationary term of over pampered cxot- icks — such as have the stamina to go through the trial and become naturalized to corn and fodder in log stables, may form the basis of some future good stock ; but, I dare say, we shall never hear of many of them again. UpoQ this subject, few perhaps, have had more, ex- perience than the author of this communication ; having labored under the racing mama for a term of years, that almost reduced him to a race of worthless garrans, though none of their distinguished dams cost him less than a hundred guineas a piece, and were certified for, through an uncontaminated succession of famous English ancestors down to the Godolphin Arabian. For- tuuately, however, about twelve years ago, I becaoie convinced of my delusion, and since I have been endeavoring to get back to the well known old stocks, and breeding exclusively with a view to useful qualities, the result has answered my most sanguine hopes. One of your constant readers, v:ilh a feiH iliare of Virginia fondness for horses. 268 NEW EXGLAxND FARMER. Kt..UAKKS ON t:ii: improvement of cattle, &c. In a utter to S.r John Saunders Sebri-flil, Barl. M. P. by .'//. Juhn Wilkinson, of Ltnton, near .yolting- hain. ltd each auccocdiiig; race f-mploy your care, Distinguish which to slaughter, which to spare ; .Marie well the liiua^e, — let the purest make, From purest blood, its just proportions take. {Continued froai page 2tiJ.) .\PPENDIX TO THE PUBLIC. It was highly c;r;i(il\ing- to me at lirst, that many who have ijiven their most serious atten- tion to these matters, should have thought me in any measure qualitied to elucidate a subject of such vast importance ; but it was still more so, when after repeated solicitation.*, and I had at length complied with their request in offer- ing my remarks, that the remarks themselves should have met with so much approbation from the public at largo. Nor can I pass over the pleasure 1 have t'elt at being told, thatthoy have already been of considerable practical use. I have had reason to hope indeed, that they may have been of .some slight service in direc- Upg" the attention to the shapes of Cattle, for laying on the greatest quantity of meat in the piimo parts, and in describing the best kind of flesh,- -in shewing, that the fattening qualities of Cattle are not incompatible with the milking, and that the latter therefore ought by no means to be neglected, — and lastlj-, by pointing out the absurdity of keeping an inferior animal on pretence that it is well-bred. In these particulars, I had observed manj' and grievous mistakes; audit was really lamenta- ble to find with the present desire of improve- ment, that some had given large prices for an- imals, that were in themselves so extremely de- fective. It liappened, therefore, that the end proposed in several cases, was not answered ; and a consequent disappointment was thrown in the way of future exertions. And hence it be- came desirable to give, in the most plain and simple terms, such general rules, as might en- able every one in some measure to judge for himself. In questions of a practical nature, experience must be attended to ; and results carefully ob- served : for theory without practice, is general- ly idle and visionary ; and of little or no use when put to the test. But then it is also to be remarked, that along with practice, the most patient thought and careful rellcction, not only may be, but often are of the highest impor- tance. In the case before us for instance ; to know what would be the best possible shapes for Cattle in their several parts (whether such animals could be exactly found or not) would be one of the surest mea;i3 at length to obtain them ; by selecting those continually, which most nearly approximate to the form itself. Were people to think more hideed, errors in opposite extremes, would not so frequently fol- low each other. Light lleshed animals would not have been approved of for a single moment merely because sonic that had plenty of flesh, were of a hard and bad quality. Of such, the trial need never have been made : it was obvi- ous, they would not answer. By a little reflec- tion too, it never would havP been concluded, that Cows that were great milkers, could not al- so be quick feeders; for this at least could have occurred to the mind, that when they were wanted for feeding, they would at that time be dried of their milk ; so that the objection, urg- ed against' their feeding, would have fallen to the ground, even on its own principles. Again ; most hard lleshed Cattle, have also thick, hard skins ; hence many have sought for such as have their skins remarkably thin, and these are too often of a very delicate and tender constitu- tion. The truth is, though hard fleshed ani- mals, are generally covered with a thick, hard skin ; yet there is a skin of a certain substance, which is by no means hard, but of a rich and mellow feel, covering an animal exceedingly in- clined to fatten. And these I think are very greatlj- to be preferred : for every one must perceive, that the skin is of the highest use to protect the animal from those various changes in climate, it is obliged to undergo. But lastly ; of all the errors arising from a want of due rellection only, (independent of a proper attention to facts) none can possibly be greater, than that of keeping an inferior animal to breed from, on pretence that the animal it- self is well-bred. It is observed by the advo- cates of this system, that breed xaill shciu itxetf; that the (jualities of the ancestry nill be seen in the future stock. True ; and will not this law of nature then apply to inferior animals in the ped- igree, as well as to the superior ? It unquestion- ably docs. In theory, there is the same reason for its holding in the one, as in the other: and in practice we find that this is the case. It is strange that persons who have fallen into this error, and have brought forward the foregoing argument in their defence, did not immediately perceive, that the argument was quite as much agaiust them, as they took it to be in their fa- vor. From this mixture of good and bad an- imals in the ancestry of some Hocks and herds, it happens, that while we behold in the progeny some that are good we also find some that are very deficient ; and on such stock, little or no dependance can be placed. I observed in the remarks themselves, that a bad animal has scarcely ever a good pedigree ; that on exami- nation, we shall generally find something wrong in the ancestry at one point or other: or that if such a case actually occurs, it is most probably owing to some accidental circumstance, such as illness, or injury received by the parent while pregnant, &c. &.C. But supposing such a thing really to happen without any such accidental circumstances at all, then it is a deviation in na- ture, I think not less remarkable, than that a pair of rooks or blackbirds should produce a nest of young ones that are perfectly white. Whatever may be the real cause however of the birth of an inferior animal, we shall per- ceive in each partirtilar case many and strong reasons why it should not be kept to breed from. If it has arisen from illness in the parent, its own constitution is most likely weakened and in- jured, and this in all probability would again he entailed on its offspring. If it be one of those strong di'viations in nature, which maj' possibly occur (though 1 am persuaded very rarely takes place) without our being able to account for it according to the common course of things; then we know, as in tlie example given above, that this deviation, however great, may be continu- ed ; that white roots being once obtained, a breed of the same description might by care be at length established : aud moreover without this care, that the white color would be almo certain to shew itself in some of the progen And by analogy, the same thing would appe: reasoiwble with respect to deviations in mal or shape : but what a practical man is most co ' cerned with, it is so in fact. That the bi qualities ns well as the good, are liable to j inherited, was a circumstance- well known the ancients, and has often been remarked 1 ^ their best poets. In bringing- forward these examples in ord to shew that if practice were accompanied I more reflection, many errors would certainly ' avoided ; I have at the same time selected the of this particular nature, the better to illustra my own subject. But the observation itself, one of so general a nature, that it applies to i most all our undertakings. 1 have chosen sue moreover, where the errors have not onlybe. '' frequent ; but where some of them are of ll '' consequence, and particularly the last, th wherever a due attention shall not be paid this part of the subject, there, much progrt cannot reasonably be expected. 1 stated in the remarks, that no animal c be depended upon for breeding, but such as in itself good, and is moreover well-bred in t strictest sense of the words ; and I am persu; ed that experience will bear me out in the ; sertion. 1 might also have added, that wh such and such only are used for this purpose, i need not be in the slightest fear of disappoi ment. Horace, a celebrated Roman I'oct, w understood the importance of this when he « pressed himself in language to the following feet ; of which this translation may be given The brave arc offsprings of the brave and good : In stctTs and stteds we trace the north and blood Of high-bred sires ; '• nor can the bird of Jove,* Intrepid, fierce, beget th' unwarlike dove."t As if the poet had said ; that where the ; cestry is really good, there is almost as lit reason to expect, that the valuable propert of the parents should fail in the offsprin as there is to eipect that an animal of o kind, should ever be the parent of that ' '* another. " From what has been advanced on the inhi ■' itance of peculiar qualities, it will immediate appear in the selection of Bulls, that besides ' tending to those properties which belong to t male, we ought to be careful also, that they a descended from a breed of good milkers, j least if we wish the future stock to possess ll ' propertj'. It is of far more consequence deed, that this should be the case with respi to the Ball, than it can possibly be with respc j to an inilividual Cow ; because the whole of 1 ' descendants will be aQected by it. Since the whole number of good Cattle the country is at present unquestionably ve small ; 1 shall add a few words on what appci to me to be the most probable means of increi ing it ; but particularly with respect to the u of Bulls. I mentioned in the remarks, that those di.stricts where valuable animals wc lirst introduced by Gentlemen themseWes, thought it would not be a bad plan to allow tl Tenantry to improve their own stock at a ct tain reasonable rate ; and gave my reasons ) the foregoing opiuioD. I find however, th R k iiii =i •The Eagle. t The part between the inverted ccmmas, is tat' from the traualatiou of Francis. y NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 269 . I, spirited Gentlemen who have obtained ] their dann were of the worst :iiul most inferior 1 ery description whatever ; by which means ho I ils of me, being aexious to benefit their im-l kind. That the iiublic therefore, might no Uvill he enabled to adojit the more f>:iidentrnr.:i- ndNite neighborhood, and particuhirlv solici-j longer be tlius imposed on, I very soon deter- surcs, as to sucli arlicles, as h.e hiinselt may mined to keep liim entirely for my own use. And though wiiile a yearling, he earned me so larije a sum ot money ; and after I had made the restriction and his stock began to be seen, ap- plications were made to me from various parts of the country, in some cases ofTering any sum that could he asked or given for the use of a bull ; yet I have seen no cause sufHcient to in- duce me to alter from my lirst determination ; nor do I suppose I ever shall. In districts where the tenantry themselves procure good cattle, there 1 should by no means advise th« landlord to allow the neighborhood to send their cows to a bull of his own at an under price, if he possessed a valuable one ; because this would have a tendency to damp the emulation of the tenantry amon 1( s ior the welfare of their own tenantry, ' he allowed such to send their Cows to the |lh without any compensation whatever. 0 can be no doubt but that such a dispo- does them the highest creilit ; but still I t nk it would be more beneficial (1 speak not e their own account, but for the neighborhood 1 large) to take a certain compensation ; and it too such a one, as should at least keep ay the very refuse of the C^attlc.* Nor do Qiiik it a bad plan, beside the usual charge ■ each individual Cow, to have an extra sum ■ all bull calves that are uncut at four months I. Where the cows are tolerably good, even not remarkable for their breed, the heifer Ives produced by sending such to valuable Us, may be very useful for future stock ; ough they cannot by any meane be so well land to deprive the most .spirited and skilfui pendod upon for breeding, as if their Dams had I among them of that reward they arc so justly en thorough bred aho. But such stock cros- onlitlcd to. One thing is very certain, that i time at'tcr time with the thorough bred Bulls, I there is a greater desire for improved slock in have to dispose of It contains moreover a fund of information, en jiractical ijubjecls, belonging to agrioulture, fiom the joint contribution of tlie most scientific men of the day- To nienHon 11 soon arrive at a very considerable degree perfection. If however persons breed from If bred Bulls as well as half bred Heifers, it obvious that there is no continual advauce- 3nt in blood ; the progeny will still be only If bred. Why I should admit of this partial iprovement from the Heifers, is this; be- luse in the present state of things, a sufficient nnber of really valuable animals cannot be ocured ; and by crossing theoi in the way 1 ve just mentioned, each succeeding race suld no doubt be considerably improved. Still wever the value of such a cross must depend irtly on the excellence of the original stock Cows, put to the thorough bred Bulls; 1 ost again repeat, that I think very bad ones e better excluded altogether. Jly reason al- for advising to charge an additional price for e bulling of any Cow, if the calf itself be ared as a Bull, is to prevent as much as pos- ole the use of Bulls that are descended from oderate females ; for on account of the ex- nsive use that may be made of a single Bull, le good or harm done to a neighborhood, ac- jrdino- as the Bulls are good or bad, well bred not, is much greater than most are apt to im- jine. But with every precaution, I know from what have frequently seen, that it is no easy matter > prevent the use of bulls, descended from in- irior cows. In the case of my bull Alexander m animal well known in most parts of the ountry) when he was allowed to serve other erson"s cows, I found the greatest possible mis^ hief arising from it. For as it frequently hap ens, that my applications for cattle are greater ban 1 can supply, many were induced to give arge price* to others for half bred ones de- cended from him ; when the fact was, some of Others have taken a f?.ir jjrice for the general UfC f their Bulls, but have atlowtd their own ti^nantry to Bad Cows for something less, which 1 think is by no wans a bad plan ; as I think this liberality, while it aeourages the tenantry, atfords the landlord the se- arity I mentioned in the conclusion of the re marks ; nd to a man of a noble disposition, the gratification f seeing the improvements made on his ejtate. I pre- e not however to dictate the best plan for each larlicular case ; that may vary according to circum- tances. But I do think in all cases, some plan hould be adopted to keep away the Cattle j'lst mcn- ioned. the present day than was ever before known. Nor can we be at all surprised that this should be the case ; for those who have had an oppor- tunity of seeing the vast diUcrcnce that is made in the return between good and bad animals, would naturally be very anxious for the former, though they may incur a little expense in the (list establishment of a breed. And here I cannot refrain from passing my highest encomium on the board of agriculture. The liberal premiums proposed by it, on vari- ous occasions, together with the enlightened experience of many of its members, have, and I trust will ever continue to be productive of the greatest good. AVhen we behold men o( the rank and opulence of its noble president* dcvotin? so much of their time and attention to the public weltarc ; the inferior orders and mid- dle classes of society, ought, surely never to think it too much to exert themselves on their own behalf. Such noblemen and gentlemen by their various experiments are continually dis- covering something new, and of importance : the experiments that fail, fall entirely on them- selves ; while those that succeed, are generous- ly made known to the public at large. By their rank in life, they render the pursuit of agricul- ture respectable ; and by their liberal assistance, they rouse many to a degree of exertion which is not unfrequently crowned with success. t Whoever wishes to make himself acquainted with the value of fat and lean cattle exposed for sale, at the ditlerent markets and faiis in vari- ous parts of the country', cannot do better, than consult the Fanner's Journal. This is a publi- cation indeed, that no agriculturist ought to be without. To a man of business, its trifling ex- pense is soon repaid by the correct information he iL-ecUy receives of the prices of not only one kind of agricultural produce,^ but of almost cv- *The Right Honorable the Earl Hardwickc. "t I mi^-ht here mention the aid afi'orded to the im- provement of stock, by the various exhibitions in al- most every part of tlie country, eEtablished either by the muniliceuce of distinguished individuals, or the joint contribution of the respective members — in most of which societies, we generally perceive the nobility and gentry of the neighborhood come forward in such a way, as does them the highest credit. J The concluding page of each journal contains a list of the prices of all kinds of corn, lecds, meat, hay, the t;;.i:np.tures of Sir John Sinclair, Mr. lJ:il!, iMr. Blakie, and Mr John Klman, Jr. might alone suffice ; but to these, if need bo, in.iny more of the first note, could be easily added — the whole being arrangad and corrected under the inspection of au intelligent editor. I liave only to add again in conclusion, how much real pleasure it has given me, to have received the approbation of so many intelligent men ; and most sincerely wish that my '• re- marks"' were still more worthy of their atten- tion. And I can assure all, if s|ieciniens of cat- each other, I tic j)leasc them better than description, that they arc extremely welcome to the sight of any, (jr the whole of mine, at any part of the year. — For as I never make a point of forcing them by extra keeping, I am quite regardless of the time they are shewn. The improvement of the stock of the country, indeed, is a subject of such vast importance, that it can never be made too clear ; and on this account, I shall always be happj', to adopt every means in my power, to facilitate so great an object. Should this pamphlet fall into the hands of any, who liax e been wailing for heifers from me, and hare thought themselves neglected by not receiving them so early as they might imagine; I have only to assure them tliat it h.is arisen from others, who have given a prior or- der, either taking more than 1 at (ir-t expected, or putting in their elaim for a second supply : and that every attention has, aod will continue to be paid, to serve all as soon as possible. I ought perhaps here to mention generally, that from the great demand I have, my plan has been, if any one ajiplies at a lime, when 1 am unable to spare any, to make a memorandum of the application, if wished ; and then to send word as soon as I have such to part with, as are likely to suit. From this demand too, my bulls and bull calves are disposed of at all times of the year ; several of the bulls are frequently sold or re- let in September, soon aftei' their return from former engagements ; and man}' of the bull calves often disposed of during the first summer, that is, as soon as they have been well reared and arc ready to send off. The plan that many have adopted therefore, that live at a distance, is to write to me to know if they can be suppli- ed with a bull calf, or heifers ; and if not, how soon they can. In which case I describe what I have, if any to part with at the ti.Tie, what are coming forward, and how soon they will be rcadv ; so that by this means, they liave the trouble of one journey only. Perhaps no gen- tleman, who takes this |)lan, will think it too much to pay the postage ; for though the ex- pense of each letter is but trifling, yet from the number I receive, it would soon amount to a considerable sum. Some who live at a great distance and have Seen the cattle I have sent to neighboring places, have left the selection en- straw, &c. ic. both in London and also in the most important of the country markets. Nor is it of small moment, that if there be a sudden rise or depression of the various articles, the cause isgeneraily adverted tc ':;*) ^K^V ENGLAND FARMEH. lirelj- to me; but tlioiis[h [ liave hiiil tho plea- ."iirc of (indiritT; ilmt t'losc I have Pent have g\v- v.n grent satislaction, yet I very Hir prolor, whcrcvor it is practicable, that all sboiiKI make ciioicn tor themsclve'. And 1 s-liouiJ still re- ommcnd but a sm;ill number at first, not mere- ly on account of my own convenience, oivinq- to ths demand I have ; but because persons have then an opportunity, at no vas texjicn'^e, olsee- ina: v.hfllicr they are the kind of animal they wished (or — and as I have before saiil, convic- tion wiiich arises from experience, is always prreatly to I)c preferred. To nie however, it lias been hic;:lily crratifyinj to lind, that in so ma- ny case's, where they liave once been eslaidish- c I, a Iro^h supply' has so soon been ivished for. 1 think Iherelbre, a bull and one or two heifers miijbt sulfice in most places at tirst, «hcre the trial is made ; nnd in some, a young bull only. Krom thp .^mrriran Farnitr. C EM EXT. However valuable ;\ir. Skinner's paper con- tinue? to be, 1 (ind all his receipts arc not in- fallible ; particularly that on ashes and gall, for cracks in stoves, as 1 tiod al'tcr drying, if crum- bles otF, and weepin;? eyes are again renewed, but if you ailcl a portion of IMaster of I'aris with Settle iron lllinifs, it will produce a substan- tial cement, and the lustre of your eyes be preserved from the great annoyance of smoke. Plhiliinun. ?,I. O. From the American Farmer. Ansver to a " .\orth Carolina Far.ncr."' The best preventives against fleas in hogs, lice in cattle, and ticks in sheep, are corn meal, and care. The best remedy for the e\ils tlle^ I'.rcatc, is a strong decoction of tobacco, obtain- ed by boiling. Hickory ashes, thrown upon swine, not only assists in destroying fleas, Iml in removing cutaneous diseases, by causing the animals to rub themselves frequenflv. CTRVVEX. Philadelphia County^ JMnrch .^j//, 1C23. From tliL- Connecticut llcralil. A few weeks since, an obituary notice of Mrs. i.ong, of Concord, N. II. went the rounds of the newspapers. Her death was occasioned by using sugar adulterated with while lead. She died with aggravated symptoms of Colicu Pic- lunum, or Lead Colic. Since then a family in the same town, (Mr. .). Wheeler's,) have been severely alllicted in the saine way, Irom the use of a|iplc-fauce kept in earthen pan=, glazed with red lead — the youngest mcndjer of the family has died. There is a notice of the case by Dr. Long, and a report by the central Medi- cal Society, IV. II. on the subject, in the .^>u■- Ilampshirc Pulriat. Ur. Long gives the follow- ing as the history of the symptoms: — •• Among the first symptoms noticeable in this disease, are a tightness or uneasiness across the stomach and bowels, costiveness, faintness, gid- diness, numbness in the extremities, pains .•-hoot- ing Uiruugh the head, neck, back, and limbs, wliich are often thought to be iheumatick. And in the further progrc'ss of the disease, slight sickness of the stomach, thirst, anxietv, general languor, yellowness of the skin — and if not re- lieved, worse symptoms ensue ; such as obsti- nate costiveness, a frequent but ineirectual de- ."irc to evacuate the contents of the bowels, constant nausea and vomiting, violent pains in the stomach and bowels, with the sensation of their being knotted up and strongly drawn up- ward and back ; epilepsy, delirium, palsy, strong convulsions, and death." When a family or any member of it, is alTect- cd with such symptoms, they may suspect the action of lend poison, and ought to examine their food, drink, and utensils for cooking or containing them. They ought too, to make speedy application for medical assistance, as this is a case of peculiar obstinacy and danger. In the case abo\e mentioned, the glazing of the pans was in part entirely destroyed, and the in- side of tho pans reduced to the state of clay. Lead is used in Ibiming pewter vessels, in sol- dering tin -.varo. and in glazing earthen ware. White crockery is glazed with white lead; com- mon brown ware with coarse red lead, or ox3'd. Stone ware is glazed with salt, and is therefore not liable to these objections. Lead is easily corroded by any thing acid, such as wine, cider, pickles, preserves, and by oils, when rancid. These articles then contain the lead in solution, which may be detected by a solution of liver of sulphur, {hiidiusiilphurrt^) in the form of a black cloud or precipitate. Wines are often sweeten- ed by sugar of load, when pricked or acidilied. This has been made a gainful, but most nefari- ous speculation. It has been one of the thou- sand guilty means of gathering wealth from the wretchedness of others. Krom the case of Mrs. Long, it appears that the same adulteration has been practised in sugar. Those who value their health, (and there is assuredly nothing ol higher value, for one half of our moral evils are e\il from their destroying heahh :) those who prefer a sound constitution to any moment- ary gratification or fancied convenience, ought to take care how they suiTer this insidious poi- son to taint their food, and infect their luxuries. Let them remember, there may be " death in the piitP'' Copper is another poisonous metal. All copper and brass kitchen utensils should be used cautiously — and brass cocks ought in par- ticular to he avoided in drawing ofT any acidu- lous liquor. Oils, too, act on copper, at least vvhen rancid ; and I have often witnessed the melted tallow on a brass candlestick colored a deep green. THE FARIVIEB. nOSTO.K :~!^ATLRDA\\ M.iRCH J', 1825 ^ iBi' TEK.MS OF THE F.\RMER. (Kr Publislied every Saturday, at Thrf.e Dolu per annum, payable at tlie end of the year — but th ? who pay witliin six!}/ days from the time of subscriB i* wM be entitled to a d< diiction of FfFTV Ce.\ts. ' (SCf -^ fitlu-pig-e and index will be furnished, gr^ s-hole volume. ,|j». iJ»- Finesaf. — Some workmen in Italy being on (he point of hurling a stone from the roof of a house, called out to the persons passing to take care. A man going by, and neglecting the cau- tion, was wounded by the fall of a stone ; and summoning the workmen into a court of law, demanded damages. I'yla-us, a lawyer of much eminence in the twelfth century, was employed as counsel for the workmen ; and finding that there was no possibility of procuring evidence that his clients had called out to the passers by, he advised them how to act accordingly. When the trial came on, and they were interrogated by the .ludge, and asked why they had hurled down the stone so carelessly ? they made no an- ■■wer. The .ludge repeated his question, but still they were silent. The Judge appearing astonished at thi';, l'yl:iddlebury C ol- lege, Vl. has resign^^d his oll'icc ; but it is expected lb. it he will continue his usefid labors in thfe Institution un- til the next commencement. At the Supreme Court, now siltit:g in Newport, l.d- niund Briggs and I'.dmuiul Hrijfg^, jr. father and son, have been tried and found guilty of manslaiigb.ler. Loss (if Ihe Sltniii Boul Tinnrs.see. — It seldom falls to our lot torecord so melancholy an event as the lofs of this boat, which i»lnnged more than 30 persons into a watery grave. The boat with HiJ passengers, which were subsequently augmented to 19G, left New Or- leans for Ljuisvillc, Feb. 2d. In the r.igb.l of the Cth, beiu" ISO miles miles alove Natchez, the boat struck a loj, an 1 wis so shattered that it s-.nik in five n\inute;. The night was dark, boistirous, cold and snowy, in alkmpt was made to rarry the steam beiat to the shore, bnt the water c ntered so fast, that it was in vain. Capt. Campbell made every effort which circumstances would permit, to save the passengers and crew, and it was greatly owing to his exertions that so many reached the shore in safely. Upwards of UO persons v/hose names are un- broke open the trunks, &c. took 700 dollars in money ; the captain and mate's clothing, &c. They then I perished in the water, many of wounded two of the men, who made such an outcry, I known. that the pirates were fearful that they should be heard on shore, and thought best to flee. Piralis. — Ten Pirates captured by the British sloop of war Tyne, and convicted at Kingston, in Jamaica, have been executed. PRICES OF COUNTRY PRODUCE, &t. [l?cvised and corrected every Friday.] FARMER SUMMARY OF NEWS. REIGN. .icconnts fi-om the West Indies in- hatthe parly which attempted to revolutionize Rico, headed by Gen. Decoudray, and including aptiste Irvine among others, have been tried, cou- l, and sentenced to thirty years imprisonment. have received nothing new since our last, on the :t of hostilities between France and Spain. In .gover the articles on this subject received by the 1 at N. York, which brought papers from Louden nOth Feb. we perceive some indications of Great n's inteference either to prevent hostilities, or to the Spaniards in opposition to the coalition. It 1 that Mina, the famous Spanish general, has giv- ! advice, in case of invasion, to fight no great bat- ut harass the invaders by partizan warlare. and em off in detail. If this advice should be foUow- id the Spaniards remain true to themselves, the of the coalesced despots will be as uncomforta- .ualed as " a toad under a harrow." They will dc marks for invisible enemies to aim at, and skill, or knowledge of military tactics will be ; unavailing. No nation possessing a jiopnlation or three millions of hardy and determined inbah- can be subdued by any foreign force, if the war Iverted into contests of posts and skirmishes, and vaded have forlitude enough to lay waste their territory before the invaders, cut off their supplies. larass them by all the means which a superior edge of the country must'afford. \ttt Fire in Canton. — A most destrnctive fire has occurred in Canton, in China. It commenced 9 o'clock OH the evening of the 1st Nov. and con- buraiag about two days. Upwards of GO fac- ASHES, pot, 1st qual. . . . pearl do BEANS, while, BKEF, mess, 200 cwt. . . . cargo, No. 1 " No. 2 Ist qual. 2d qual. small kegs, family, CHEESE, new milk . . . . FLAX- , . . FLAX SEED ' FLOUR, Baltimore, superfine, Genessee . . . . Rye, best . . . . GRAIN, Rye Corn Barley Oats DOMESTIC. Fine CaltU.—The N. Y. Commer- cial .\dvertiser mentions twelve extraordinary steers, fattened by Mr. Monmouth Purdy, of Scipio, Cayoga County. It was supposed they would weigh from 2500 lbs. to 3000 lbs. each. They were purchased by Mr. lla\id Jlarsh, and Mr. Andrew C. Wheeler, of Fulton ... -Market. One pair of these steejs, for which the pur- El! TTLR, inspect rhasergave $500, is judged to weigh 6000 lbs. AVhen -Mr. Purdy first went into the western part of N. \'. the cattle raised in that region, were considered rather in- ferior; but such has been hi? success in improving the breed, and in fattening and driving them, that the butchers are anxious to obtain their supplies from thence. The cattle were driven G miles per day ; and the inhabitants of two of the villages on the way paid -VIr. P. $30 respectively, as an encouragement for per- severance in producing such extraordinary fine animals lor the market. Sj}orling In/tllisencc. — The celebr.ated horse Cock of the Rock, has arrived in town from Vermont, for the ; HOGS' L.^RU, 1st sort purpose of closing with the propositions of William \ HOP.., No. 1, . . . Harrison, to run against a Virginia horse, on the Long j El ML, Island course, for $5,000, " play or pay," in the ensu- , OH., I->"sc' di^ American ing spring races — which will probably exhibit more , PEAKS 1 F,R PARIS . matches, bets and forfeits than can be "found on record [ PORK, N.avy Mess from any one course in the sporting calendar. .V. ¥. Statesman. First Sttllemenl of .Yfic-//.;i(i;M.'i(re. — A meeting of a Literary Society in Poitsmouth have recommended the celebration of the completion of the two hundredth year from the settlement of New Hampshire. The cel- ebration is to be at Portsmouth, on Wednesd.ay, the 281h day of May next. Fire in Providence. — On the 15th Inst, a fire broke out in Mr. Williams' stable, north of AVestminster Street, Providence. The stable, together with other buildings on the land, w,as quickly consumed or de- molished. A cow and two pigs were burnt, and two horses so much inj'ired as to be of no value. Fire in PIniadelphiri. — The extensive structure, the Hall of the Washington Bi nevolent Society, was con- sumed by fire on Monday last. Supposed to be the work of an incendiary. A house was burnt at Raleigh, (N. C.) on Tuesday oflast week, and an old nee^ro woman, T\iio was ver}' aged and infirm, being unable to get out of the house In time, perished in the flames. A serious riot is said to liave taken place at New- Haven between the students of Yale College and the citizens. Two or three hundred students were engag- ed and pioceeded to great lengths. Cause of the riot unknowii. Bone Middlings . Cargo, No. 1, ... Cargo, No. 2, . . . SEEDS, Herd's Grass . . • Clover WOOL, Merino, full blood, wa.shed do. do. unwashed do. 3-4 washed do. 1-2 do. Native .... do. Pulled, Lamb's, 1st sort do. Spinning, 1st sort rROVISIOX NARKET. BEKF, best pieces . . . . PORK, fresh VEAL, MUTTON, POULTRY BUTTf;R, keg & tub . . . lump, best . . EGGS, MEAL, Rye, , faullan, POTATOES, CIDER, liquor, HAY. beat, ! iRom D. C. ton. 1.(7 00 137 0( bush 1 00 bbl. 0 50 8 50 C 50 lb. 15 I-,' 10 7 C bush P(^ obi. 7 51' 7 5t 4 5( Push {;(' r: c„ lb. ft 1. cask 1 2:. ,-al. e,, 'on. 3 C( hbl. 12 0(! 14 Oi, 12 00 11 00 hush 2 25 lb. !: 50 40 45 4(j 3: 47 lb. <. G (' V< doz. 11 bush fc5 80 37 bbl. 1 5(; ton. 20 Wl TO D. C. 1,50 00 IGO 0(> 1 10 10 00 9 00 7 00 16 13 17 9 9 1 CO ■J ?;? 0 CO 85 70 C5 45 12 1 50 70 3 25 12 50 14 50 12 50 11 oO 2 50 9 60 45 47 45 40 CO 50 10 li 7 12 17 29 10 90 £5 34 «0 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. Dv r. G. n;ssi:xDE5. RURAL PEACr; A.\D INDEPF.NDEN'CE. That man ii fortunate, who fimc-ly wise, Lifes peaceful blessings ran discern anil [irize, Who neVr hi3 talent?, wealth nor time euiploys, In quest of cnstly anil tumultuoiu joys ; Nor chiirliihiy refuses to partake Of God's good thing?, created for his sake, — Spurning the gifts of Deity desiguM To clicor and bless the lot of huinan-kind — AVith some good bo iks, some good companions blest, " Health in his re in?, and quiet in his breast," Aloof from scenes of riot, noise and strife, Enjoys the comforts of a rural life, lliin no anxiety, no fi ars appal ; lie ne'er submits to " low ambition's" thrall, Ne'er condescends a falsehood to impart, But makes his tongue the herald of his heart — Ne'er stoops to high, nor spurns at low dcgroej His manners still from affectation free, He never masks grim malice with a smilo. Nor makes hypocrisy the guise of guile. Though sometimes blunt, he always is sincere, And what he is, is willing to appear. Though no rich labors of a foreign loom, ■pr costly paintings decorate his room, T.ight, but sound slumber, softly seals bis eyc^j That boon of innocence and exercise, Which monarchs coTct, but cannot enjoy, Pweetly rewards his every day's employ. Health tempers all his cups, and at his board lU'iga the cheap luxuries bis iields afford. Pecu from the eyict-holts of his retreat, i//gA life appears a bubble and a cheat •, He marks the many Who to ruin run, Knaves who undo, and fools who are undone, Some by a sordid thirst of gain control'd, Starve in full stores, and cheat themselves for gold. Others devour ambition's glittering bait. Striving to gain the dignities of state. Much harder, and more dirty work go tlirotigh Than farmers can be call'd upon to do ; — Beholding these, is thankful that his lot Gives peace and freedom in a country cot. than Ihrec hundred Ihousand per annum. Suppos- ing that ten packs were the produce of an acre of land, and the market price were only twenty- five cents per hundred, the cultivator would re- alize from the acre four hundred and seventy- two dollars and fifty cents; deduct from thia for rent, labor, &c. and' it will be seen that no oth- er crop can prove so profitable to the farmer. " The soils mo?t adapted to the growth of this plant, are those of the more strong and deep kinds ; but which are not too rich, as loamy clays, and such as have strong marly bottoms, and are fit for the growth of wheat cmps." " The most favorable situations are those that are rather ele?ated, open, and inclined a little to the south, and the higher grounds, par- ticularly where the country is inclosed, are the most advantageous."' " For the preparation of the ground, where it is a lea, it should be ploughed up deeply in tlic early part of the year ; and where it is in- clined to moisture, it should be executed in narrow ridges of not more than three bouts each."' " In providing the seed, it should be con- stantly taken from such plants as are the most perfect of their kind, and the most productive in heads. It should be suffered to remain till it becomes perfectly ripened, and be used while From the New York Statesman. CULTIVATION OF TEASELS. As the season is approaching when the spring planting will commence, I have presumed through the medium of your excellent paper, Iresh. " From one to two pecks are suflicicnt for an acre, some use three." " The crop should be put in as early as the spring will permit. The common method is to broadcast, it being sown after the manner that is practised for turnips. Before sowing, the land should be well harrowed down, in order to af- ford a fine slate of mould as a bed for the seed."' " The land should be kept clean from weeds, the plants should be hoed out so as to leave them twelve inches apart, and have them well earthed up. When the blossoms fall the plants are ripe, and in a state to be cut and secured. They should be cut with about nine inches ol stem, and tied up in handfuls with some of the stems. On the evening of the day on which j they are cut, they should be put in a dry shed, and should be exposed to the sun daily in clear I weather, till they become perfectly dry ; they should then be sorted and kept in a dry loft."' Having given an account of the manner of raising this plant in England, 1 shall ofi'cr some roots will not descend to the same depth in soil, and the winter comes on before they h; recovered their pristine vigour j hence cause of the plants being destroyed either p tially, or altogether during the winter season Last year our crop was generally destroy and had not a supply been obtained from E land, the woollen manufacturers would h; been much injured. In that country the c is usually more or less productive, but owins the moisture of the climate, is often of little ■< ue. This was peculiarly the case with tha the year 1822. When the crop failed h last summer, manufacturers and merchants ported to supply the demand, but most t were brought in, having been brought there persons totally unacquainted with the artic the damaged teasels of the crop of 1822 w sent out, which have proved a dead loss to manufacturers who purchased them. I h seen only one lot that can be considered a prj article, and those were bought of Messrs. Di IJethune and Co. As this country appears to be destined to come the seat of manufactures, it would well for our agriculturists to turn their ati tion to the raising of such crops as will sup the new denwnds thereby created. It would quire more than sixteen thousand acres to r all that is wanting for the present woollen tablishments, and the demand will be annu increasing. Should you consider this art worthy an insertion, it may encourage m send you other essays relative to the raisin articles now imported. A MANUFACTURE of Coluinhia Coi which I observe is devoted to every suDjoc that can subserve the interest of the agricultur- ; couiit''y ist, merchant, and manut'acturer, to Call the at- Thc Unnatural Sou. — A certain farmei Connecticut, possessing a small estate, was suaded by his only son, (who was married, lived with his father,) to give him a deed ot property. It was accordingly executed. S the father began to find himself neglected — i removed from the common table, to a bloc the chimney comer, to take the morsel of reluctantly given him — at last, one day the natural son resolved to try once more to bi the heart of his sire. He procured a block began to hollow it. While at work he questioned by one of his children what he doing. " I am making a trough for your gr father to eat out of,"' was the reply. J remarks on the mode of cultivating it in this says the child, " and when you are as ol Those who cultivate them here, arc not suffi-i grandfather, shall I have to make a trough ciently attentive to the quality of the seed. In-) you to eat out of?" The instrument he een permitted to ripen, they collect it promi3-| the hre— the old man s forgueness asked, dicia fullonium, or fullers teasels. They are employed for raising the nap on i ■VToolleii cloth, and no other material can bo used as a substitute. It is a biennial plant, and there is some uncertainty in obtaining a crop ; but when planted in a suitable soil and proper- ly cultivated, the chance is three to one in fa- vor of a successful result. The crop, in Eng- land, is sometimes fourteen or more packs to tlio acre, and at other times scarcely any. When cut they are sorted into three different ]{i,„|s — into kinofs, middlings, and scrubs — they are then made into jiatk-, the kings containing nine ihousand, the middlings twenty, the third or scrubs, are not considered as of any value. The demand for teas(>is in this country is already considerable, and is daily increasing. Some iiiauufactuicrs art; now consuming more cuousiy from those that have been collected for sale. As the teasel is cut for use when the blossom falls before the seed is ripe, the plants cannot be so vigorous as when taken I'rom those heads which have been permitted toripcn. The choosing of a genial soil, and situation, together with keeping the crop clean from weeds by good hoeing, is generally neglected by our farmers; all of which nppoar to be es- sentially necessary to insure a productive crop. Those who cultivate them in this cquntry, sow the seed in beds and transplant them in the fall. This system is highly objectionable, and is no doubt the principal cause of the fre- quent failure of the crop. The growth of the plants is checked by being transplauted, the he was restored to worth entitled him. the situation his age Sailing Carriages. — A machine, invcntet a gentleman of Christ-College, Cambridge, lately tried at New Market. In shape i nearly that of an isosceles triangle, and it mt with the broad end forward, on four wh<^ It has a boom thirty-two feet long, and an M ceeding high mast. It will carry 12 person ill the rate of thirty miles an hour. To the ; of the hinder wheels is fixed a rudder. It p-o on a wind, and tack as a vessel at sea, ao capable of being so correctly guided, that pilot at pleasure can run the wheels 0T€' ston?. — London Moq. NEW ENGLAND FARMER. • PUBLISHED BY THOMAS W. SHEPARD, ROGKRS' BUILDINGS, CONGRESS STREET, (FOUK'l'H 1HK)II 1 KOiM 8TATE STUE1:T.) No. 35. Voh. I. BOSTOiN, SATURDAY, MARCH 29, 1823. CATTLE SHOW, xi.ibition of Mauufactures, Ploughing Match. and Public Sale of Animals and Manuflictures, at Brighton, Mass. on Wednesday and Thurs- day, the 15th and ICth of October, 1823, to commence at 9 o'clock, A. M. on each day. The Trustees of the Massachusetts Society for he Promotion of Agriculture, encouraged by he patronage of the Legislature of this State, utend to offer in Premiums, not only the sum jranted by the Government for that purpose, )ut also the whole amount of the income of heir own funds. They, therofore, announce to he public, their wish to have a Cattle Show, ind Exhibition of Manufactures, &c. S;c. at Brighton, on Wednesday and Thursday, the Idth nd \6th of October, 1823; and they offer the "oUowing Premiums : FOR STOCK, "or the best Bull, raised in Massachusetts, above one year old •"or the next best do. do. Tor the next best do. do. '"or the best Bull Calf, from 5 to 12 months old ■^or the next best do. do. ■"or the next best do. do. '■"or the best Cow, not less than three years old '"or the next best do. do. ■"or the next best do. do. "or the best Heifer, from one to three years old, with or without calf ^r the next best do. do. "or the next best do. do. "or the best Ox, fitted for slaughter, regard to te had to the mode and expense of fatting "or the next best do. do. "or the next best do. do. "or the best pair of Working Oxen 'or the next best do. do. "or the next best do. do. 'or the next best do. do. 'or the next best do. do. 'or the best pair of Spayed Heifers, not less than one year old "or the best Spayed Sows, not less than four in number, and not less than five months old The claimant to be entitled to either of these wo last premiums, must state, m writing, the node of operation and treatmeat, in a manner jatisfactory to the Trustees. For the best Merino Wethers, not less than six in number, having respect to form and fleece For the next best do. do. do. For the best Native Wethers, not less than six in number do. For the next best do. do. do. For the best Merino Ram, do. For the next best do. For the best Merino Ewes, not less than five in number, do. For the next best do. do. do. For the best Boar, nst exceeding two years old For the next best do. do. For the next best do. do. For the best Sow For the next best do. •' For the next best do. For the best Pigs, not less than two in number, nor less than four months old, nor more than eight For the next best do. do. None of the above animals will be entitled to premiums, unless they are wholly bred in the State of Massachusetts. 20 10 15 10 5 30 20 15 15 10 7 30 2:) If 30 2F> 20 15 10 20 50 60 40 100 $30 15 For the best Ram which shall be imported into this State, after this advertisement, and before the 15th day of October next, of the improved Leicester breed of long wooUed sheep or a gold medal of that value, at the option of the importer. For the next best do. do. For the best Ewe of the same breed, imported un- der the same terms, and for the like superior qualities For the next best do. do. To the person who shall import into this State, from Europe, a male and female Goat, of the pure Cashmere breed Tiie persons claiming these premiums to en- gage to keep the imported animals within the State. No animal, for which to any owner one pre- mium shall have been awarded, shall be consid- ered a subject for aiiy future premium of the Society, except it be for an entirely distinct premium, and for qualities different from those for which the former premium was awarded. Any of the above Stock, when raised and still owned at the time of the exhibition, by the person who raised them, will entitle the claim- ant to an allowance of ten percent, in addition. But Sheep, to be entitled to any of the above premiums, must be raised by the person enter- ing them. FOR AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENTS. To the person who shall raise the greatest quantity of Indian Corn on an acre, not less than sev- enty bushels To the person who shall make the most satisfacto- ry experiment, to ascertain the best mode of rais- ing Indian Corn, whether in hills or rows, not less than half an acre being employed in each mode, in the same field, the quantity and qual- ity both of laud and manui-e to be equal vnid uniform in each mode ; all to receive a cultiva- tion requisite to produce a good crop To the person who shall raise the greatest quanti- ty of Vegetables, grain, peas and beans except- ed, for winter consumption, of the stock on his own farm, and not for sale, in proportion to the size of the farm and stock kept, hai ing regard to the respective value of said vegetables as food, stating the expense of raising the same, and the best mode of preserving the same through the winter To the person who shall raise the greatest quantity of winter Wheat on an acre To the person who shall raise the greatest quantity of spring ^Vheat on an acre To the person who shall raise the greatest quanti- ty of Barley on an acre, not less than forty-five bushels To the person who shall raise the greatest crop of Millet on an acre, cut and cured for hay, the claimant giving evidence of the time of sowing, the quantity of seed sown, and the quantity of hay produced To the person who shall raise the greatest quanti- ty of Carrots on an acre, not less than six hun- dred bushels To the person who shall raise the greatest quantily of Potatoes on an acre, not less than five hun- dred bushels To the person who shall raise the greatest quanti- ty of common Beets oa an acre, not less than six hundred bushels To the person who shall raise the r.'eat 'st quantity of Parsnips on an acre, not less •'- i.i four hun- dred bushels To the person who shall raise the greatest quanti- ty of "^langel ^Vurtzel on an acre, not less than six hundred bushels 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 90 To the person who shall raise the greatest quantity of Ruta Baga on an acre, not less than six hun- dred bushels To the person who shall raise the greatest quantity of Turnips on an acre, not less than six hundred bushels To the person who shall raise the greatest quanti- ty of common Turnips, alter any other crop in the same season, btingnot less than four hun- dred and fifty bushels To the person who shall raise the greatest quantity of Onions on an acre, not less than six hundred bushels To the person who shall raise the greatest quanti- ty of Cabbages on an acre, not less than 25 tons weight, free from earth when weighed To the person who shall give satisfactory evidence on ' Soiling Cattle," not less than six in number, and through the whole season, together wish a particular account of the food given, and how- cultivated To the person -who shall make the experiment of turning in green crops as a manure, on a tract not less th.-^ii one acre, and pro^ e its utility and cheapness, giving a particular account of the process and its result To the person who shall, by actual experiment, prove the best season and modes of laying down lands to grass, whether spring, summer or fall seeding be preferable, and with or without grain on different soils To the person who shall raise the greatest quanti- ty of dry Peas on an acre, not less than thirty bushels To the person who shall raise the greatest quanti- ty of dry Beans on an acre, not less than thirty bushels To the person who shall give proof of having pro- duced the largest quantity of dressed Flax, rais- ed on half an acre, not less than two hundred and fifty po\nids To tlie person who shall take up in the season, on his own farm, the greatest quantity of good Honey, ani shall at the same time exhibit supe- nor skill in the management of Bees For the best Cheese, not less than one year old, and not less in quantity than one hundred pounds For the next best do. do. For the best Cheese less than one year old For the next best do. do. To the person who shall prove to the satisfaction of the Trustees, that his mode of rearing, feed- ing and fattening neat cattle is best For the best Butter, not less than fifty pounds For the next best do. do. For the next best do. do. For the next best do. do. For the greatest quantity of Butter and Cheese, made between the 15th of May, and the 1st of October, from not less than four Cows, the quali- ty of the Butter and Cheese, and the number of Cows to be taken into consideration, and spe- cimens to be exhibited at the Show, of not less than twenty pounds of each, and the mode of feeding, if any thing besides pasture was used To the person who shall prove by satisfactory ex- periments, to the satisfaction of the Trustees, the utility and comparative value of the cobs of Indian Corn, when used with or without the grain itself, ground or broken For the best specimen of Cider, not less than one barrel, made in 1822, manulactured by the per- son who shall exhibit the same, and fiom apples grown on his own farm For the second best barrel [These premiums will be continued in ture years. Persons claiming them must state, in writing, their process of making and manag- ing their Cider, and the kind of apples used.] For the best specimen of Currant Wine, not less thau one gallon, exhibited by any person who 30 20 20 20 10 10 r> 10 20 15 10 7 20 20 20 15 fm 274 iNEW ENGLAND FAILMER. shall have made not les^i than 30 gallons in the fame season in which that which shall bo cx- hihiled was made, (a statimciit to be g'ivi ii, in writing, of the process of making the saini ) 10 For the next best do. ilo. 5 To entitle himself to either of the Premiums for Grain or Vegetable crops, the person claim- ing, must cultivate a tract of at least one acre in one piece, with the plant or proJuction for which he claims a [)remium. and must state, in writing, under oath of the owner, aiul ot one other person, (acconii>anied bv a certificate of the measurement of the land by some sworn surreyor,) the following particulars : 1. The state and fpiality of the laud, in the spring of IP/i.S. '2. The product and general slate of cultiva- tion and (pjantity of manure employed on it the year preceding. 3. The quantity of manure used the present season. 4. The quantity of seed used, and if I'otaloos, the sort. .5. The lime and manner of sowing, weeding, and harvesting the crop, and the amount of the product, ascertained by actual measurement, af- ter the whole produce for which a premium is claimed, is harvested, and the entire expense of cultivation. And in relation to all vegetables, except Po- tatoes, Onions, and common Turnip?, the fair iiverage weight of at least twenty bu-lu-ls must be attested ; and if there be hay scales in the town in which raised, not less "than three ave- rage cart loads must be weighed. The claim under this head, together with the eridenccs of the actual product, must be delivered, free of expense, to JJenjamin Guild, r.sq. in Boston, Assistant Hecording Secretary of this Society, on or before the lirst day of Oecember next — the Trustees not intending to decide upon claims under the head of .\gricul- tural Experiments, until their meeting iii De- cember. FOR INVENTIONS. I'o the person who sliall use the Drill rioiis;h, or Machine, aud apply it most siicccsFfuUy to tlie cultivation of any small Grains or Seed?, on a scale not less than one acre J20 'I'o the person who shall invent the best Machine for pulverizing and g-rindinjf Plaistcr to the fine- ucss of twenty-five bushels per ton, and which shall require no more power than a pair of oxen or horse, to turn out two tons per day, and so portable tliat it can be removed from one farm to another without inconvenience 30 To Uie person who shall produce, at the Show, any other Ao-ricultural Implement, ofhis own in- vention, which shall, in the opinion of the Trus- tees, deserve a reward, a premium not exceed- ing twenty doUarf, according to the value of the article exhibited 20 In all cases proofs must be given of the work done by the Machine, before it is exhibited ; and of its having been used and approved by some practical farmer. Persons who have ta- ken out Patents for their inventions, are not thereby excluded from claiming any of the above premiums. FOR FOREST TREES. For the best plantation of White Oak Trees, not less than one acre, nor fewer than one thousand trees per acre, to be raised from the acorn, and which trees shall be in the best thriving state, on the first of September, 18J3 - $100 For the best plantation of White Ash, and of Larch Trees, each of not less than one acre, nor fewer than one thousand trees per acre, to be raised from the seeds, and which trees shall be in the best thriving: state, on the first of Sept. lt;23. 50 For the best Live Hedge made of either the V\ liitc or Cockspur Thorn, planted in 18'iO, not less than one liundred rods, and which shall be in the best state in l^.'.J 50 To the person who shall have planted out on his farm, since the springof Itil'), the greatest num- ber of Apple Trees, not less tlian one hundred in number, and who shall exhibit to the Trustees, at the Show in 18'27, satisfactory evidence ofhis having managed them with care and skill 50 FOR DO.MESTIC MANLFACTURES. To the person or corporation who sh.all produce the best specimen o[ line IJroadcloth, not less -S yards wide, exclusive of the list, for- ty yards in quantity, and dyed in the wool $20 For the second best do. do. do. 15 For the best superfine Cassimcre, not less than 3-4 yard wide, nor less than forty yards in quantity 12 For the second best do. do. do. 8 For the best superfine Sattintt, 3-4 yd. wide, not less than 50 yards 8 For the second best do. do. do. 5 For the best Sole Leather, not less than five sides 10 For the second best do. do. do. 5 For the best dressed Calve Skins, not less than twelve in number 10 For the second best do. do. do. 5 FOR HOUSEHOLD M.\NUFACTURES. For the best \Voolkn Cloth, 3-4 yard wide, not less than twenty yards in quantity $12 For the second best do. do. 8 For the best double milled Kersey, 3-4 yard wide, not less than twenty yards in quantity For the second best do. do. For the best Coating, 3-4 yd. wide, not less than 20 yards in quantity For the second best do. do. For the best Flannel, 7-8 yd. wide, not less than 45 yds. in quantity For the second best do. do. For the best yard wide Carpeting, not less than CO yards in quantity For the second best do. do. For the best 5-8 yard wide Stair Carpeting, not less than 30 yards in quantity For the next best do. do. For the best pair of Blankets, not less than 8-4 wide and 10-4 long For the second best do. do. For the best Woollen Knit Hose, not less than 12 pair in number For the second best do. do. For the best Worsted Hose, not less than 12 pair in number For the second best do. do. For the best Men's Half Hose, (woollen) not less than 12 pair in number For the second best do. do. For the best Men''s Woollen Gloves, not less than 12 pair in number For the second best do. do. For the best Linen Diaper, 5-8 yard wide, not less than 30 yards in quantity For tlu" second best do. do. For the best yard wide Diaper, (for tabic linen) not less than 30 yards in quantity For the second best For the best specimen of Sewing Silk, raised and spun in this State, of good fast colors, not less tlran one pound For the second best do. do. For the best Linen Cloth (for shirting or sheeting,) one yard wide, and twenty-five yards long For the second best do. do. To the person who shall produce the best speci- men of any Cotton fabrics in private families, not less than five pieces All the above Manufactures, (except when of Cotton) must be of the growth and manufacture of the State of Massachusetts. And all Manu- factures, when presented, must have a private mark, and any public or known mark must be completely concealed, so as not to be seen, or known by the Committee, nor must the Propri- 13 10 10 I 20 etors be present when they are examined ; ir default of either of these requisitions, the arti cles will not be deemed entitled to consideratiot or premium. Animals, Manulactiires, or Articles, may be offered for premium at Brighton, notwithstand ing they may have received a premium from County Agricultural Society. It is understood, that whenever merely froii a want of competition, any of the claimants nia\ be considered entitled to the premium, under literal construction, yet if, in the opinion of th. Judges, the object so offered is not deserving oi any reward, the Judges shall have a right to°re ject such claims. Persons to whom premiums shall be awarded, may, at their option, have an article of Plate, with suitable inscriptions, in lieu of money. Premiums will bo paid within ten days after they shall be awarded. That in any case in which a pecuniary pre mium is offered, the Trustees may, havin" re- gard to the circumstances of the Competitor award cither one of the Society's gold or silver medals in lieu of the pecuniary premium an- nexed to the several articles. That if any competitor for any of the Socie- ty's premiums shall be discovered to have used aiiy disingenuous measures, by which the objects of the society have been defeated, such person shall not only forfeit the premium which mav have been awarded to him, but be rendered incapable of being ever after a competitor for any oi the Society's premiums. .Ml pretniums not demanded within six months after they shall have been awarded, shall be deemed as having been generously given to aid the funds of the .Society. PLOUGHING MATCH. On the second day of the Cattle Show, viz. the I'Jth day of October, Premiums will be giv- en to the owners and ploughmen of the three Ploughs, drawn by two yoke of oxen, and to the three Ploughs drawn by one yoke of oxen, which shall be adjudged, by a competent Com- mittee, to have performed the brst u-orl;, -^itk least expense of labor, not exceeding half an acre to each plcugb. Notice will be given in the public Papers, at least six weeks before said day, that a piece of ground has been provided for twenty ploughs — ten double and ten single teams ; and thit entries may be made oi the names of the competitors until the morning of the 16th. Preference will be given to those who enter first ; but if, on calling the list at the hour appointed, precisely, those first named do not appear, the next in order will be preferred. There will be two Committees, of three per- sons each — one to be the judges of the plough- ing by the double teams, the other of the ploughing by the single teams — the latter to have assigned to them a part of the field distinct ' from that of the double teams. Premiums as follows, (being the same for the double and single teams.) First Plough $15 Second Plough $10 Third Plough $6 Ploughman 8 Ploughman 5 Ploughman 3 Driver 4 Driver 3 Driver 2 In each case, if there be no Driver, both sums to be awarded to the Ploughman. The persons intending to contend for these Prizes, must give notice, in writing, to S. W. PoMEHoy, or Gortiam Parsons, Esqr's. of Brigh- ton. The competitors will also be considered as agreeing to follow such rules and regulation»J NKW ENGLAND FARMKU. ■ miiv l^e adop'.ed by (lie Committee, on tlip ib|ect. The plouglis 'to be readj' to start at /."clock, A. M. Tlie result of the last Ploughing Matches at iii^hton, and the satisfaction expressed by so i:\iiy of their agricultural brethren, will induce ,i Society to continue these premiums annu- ls . in connexion with the Cattle Show, as an icious meana for exciting emulation and im- . VL-ment in the use and construction of the ,.,' impcrtant iii.ttrurnnit of agriculture. ;ii Tersons intending to offer any species of tocit for premiums, are requested to give no- es thereof, either by letter (post paid) stating le article, or to make personal application to [r. JoxATHAN WiNSuip. at Brighton, on or he- re the 1 llh day of October, and requesting im to enter such notice or application, so that ckels may be ready at 9 o"clock on the I51h. 0 person will be considered as a competitor, ho shall not have given such notice, or made ich application for entry, on or before the me above specified. All articles of manufactures and invention?, ust be entered and deposited in the Society's corns, on Alonday the 13th of October, and will) 5 examined by the Committees on Tuesday, e Hth, the day belore the Cattle Show ; and > person but the Trustees shall be admitted to :amine them betore the Show. The articles exhibited, must be left till al'ter the Show, r the satisfaction of the public. The applicants will be held to a rigid com- iance with this rule relative to entries, as bU as to the other rules prescribed. The examination of every species of stock, xcept working oxen) will take place on the ith ; and the (rial of ^Vorking Oxen, and oughing Match, on the 16th of October. The Trustees also propose to appropriate, the second day of the Cattle Show, their :ns for the public sale of any Animals, that ve been otfered for premium, and also of any aers, that are considered by them, as possess- j fine qualities ; and their Halls for the pnb- sale of Manufactures. Both sales to take ice at half past eleven o'clock, precisely. 1(1 for all Animals or Manufactures, that are leaded to be sold, notice must be given to the cretary, before ten o'clock of the 16th. Auc- meers will be provided by the Trustees. By order of the Trustees, R. SULLIVAN, J. PRINCE, G. PARSONS, E. H. DERBY, January, 1823. Committee. ORIGINAL COMMUNICATIONS. FOR THE NEW ENOI..\ND FARMER. ) PRESERVK BACON AT ALL SEASONS AND IN ALL PLACES. Mr. Editor — You have published in your luable " New England Farmer,"' several me- ods for preserving smoked meats. It seems ne of them have perfectly well answered the irpose ; and the numerous methods prescribed e the evidence that none of them have suc- ceed satisfactorily. Much experience has en- Jed me to ofler you a prescription on the sub- ct that never has and never will fail of an- ering the purpose, viz. preserving those meats fe from the ravages of all small animals, and re and sound for any length of time, and in any cliinalc. It is the use of CinnroAi.. The nature of this material is well understood by Chemists, and its properties and effects fully exi)lained. My mode of putting down any kind of smoked meats, is thus : Take a tierce or box and cover the bottom with charcoal, reduced to small pieces, but not to dust ; cover the legs or pieces of meat with stout brown paper, sewed around so as to exclude all dust; lay them down on the Coal in compact order, then cover the layer with coal, and so on until 3'our business is done, and cover the top with a good thickness of coal. The \isc of charcoal, properly prepared in boxes, is of great benelit in preserving tVcsli provisions, butter and fruits, in warm weather; al-io in recovering meats of any kind, when par- tially damaged, by covering the same a few hours in the coal. Let those whose situation requires it, make the experiment on any article of ibod subject to decay, and they will more than realize their expectations. Sl'itlNG WIIE.iT, ANPTIIE REST TREVENTIVE AGAl.NST SMUT. This is a most valuable crop, and may be raised on almost any soil and in every part of the Commonwealth, free of smut. The numer- ous failures in this crop arise chiefly from bad or unskilful management. I have raised this kind of wheat for the last thirty years, and have never failed of having a good crop, and often very productive. My method is thus: If I pro- pose to sow wheat on suard land, I cause it to be broken up during the preceding autumn — early in the spring as the season will allow, harrow the land thoroughly and cross plough it. I then usually cart out proper manure, and spread it from the cart over the whole surface, in quantity as the soil may demand. I then im- mediately sow on the wheat, and plough it in shallow. If the land is to be laid down for grass, sow the seed immediately after the wheat and plough it in, or immediately after the wheat is ploughed in, as you please, and harrow down the whole thoroughly; first with the furrows and then across the furrows — after four or five days pass a roller over the land and lay it smooth. It is all important to have this operation com- menced and finished as early in the spring as possible. But the most essential part of the process is to prepare the Wheat for sowing. The only successful course is, to prepare the seed about ten days before sowing time. This is done by selecting clean and plump seed, pass- ing it through water in a tub, about half a bush- el at a time, and washing it and skimming off all matter that floats, then empty it into a bas- ket to drain, then lay it on a clean floor and rake in two quarts of slacked lime and one quart of plaister to the bushel, and if too dry sprinkle on water and continue to stir it until all is cov- ered with the lime and plaister. In this way you may proceed until jou have prepared your whole seed. Let it remain in a heap one day, then spread it, and move it daily, until it be- comes perfectly dry ; it is then fit to sow, and you may sow it if the land should happen to be quite ivet. The quantity of Wheat to an acre should be one bushel and twenty quarts. In the process of sowing you may not be able to ap- portion your seed exactly to the acre ; there- fore when you have sowed and ploughed in the quantity proposed for the acre, you may gather all that remains with the lime and plaister, and SOW it on to the whole piece of land, passing across the furroivs. This will make it even, and cause a very o(|unl distrllmticin of the seed, which may then he harrowed. After the Wheal has come up three or four inches above the ground, sow on one bushel of plaister to the acre, or house ashes e(|uivalent, as you please, or leached aj^hcs, increasing the quantity.-- When the Wheat begins to head, examine it, mid if you tind cockle, rye, oats, kc. mixed ami growing, take care caret ully to weed out all, so as to leave the field clean and of ]>ure Wheat. \t harvest, cut it a little before the kernel be- comes hard, and set it up in the field in small stacks to cure, and remove it under cover al'ter it is dry, and the kernel hard. This ]irocess will give you more and better flour than if man- aged in any other way. BEUKSIIlUr.. FOR THE SF.W E^C,r,A]yD 1 ARMIcn. Mil. Editor — In your paper of the 15th ins*. page 258, you wish to be informed what sort of land I raised my turnips on by ploughing in the dews. It was a coarse gravelly loam. The first time I ploughed it as deep as I could with one furrow, I should think 10 inches. After- wards, I meant to plough about six inches. My reason for ploughing deep the first time, was to open and lighten the earth, so that its vapors may arise, and unile with the dampness of the dew in the niglit air. In a cool morning in the summer, the earth being hotter than the air, sends up its moist vapors from below ; and the earth being louse by deep ploughing, the mois- ture ascends easier, and drought does not affect the land so much as after ploughing not so deep. The dew which is taken up contains a quantity of rich salts, which, when ploughed in and turned under the furrow, the richest part is re- tained under and in the furrow, when the mois- ture is again exhaled by the heat of the sun. My reasoning on the subject is this. In run- ning cider through sand, you loose all the best spirit, wliich is left in the sand ; and although it may dry through the furrow, when suitable weather comes, yet the food for plants will re- main. All sorts of manure create moisture and retain dew. Plaister, and all kind-i of stone, pulverized and sown on the land, collect the dew and retain it longer in the morning before it is taken up, and give time to plough later in the morning, and save the richness of the dow. .\shes, burnt clay, i'rozcu clay, all hai c a ten- dency to retain dew ; and many more things may perhaps be discovered yet unknown. Yours, &c. W.\LLIS LITTLE To-j.-nscnd, March 21, 1823. Mr. Jabez Rowe of Sandy Bay, Gloucester, and Air. Hall of this city, have invented a new method of manul'acturing Isinglass of superior quality from hake sounds. The inventors have in operation, an extensive manufacturing estab- lishment at the first mentioned place, and the Isinglass received from this manufactory is pre- ferred by Boston and New York brewers, to that imported from Russia. Seasoning Glass. — Place the glass in a vessel of cold water, and heat the water gradually till it boils. Glasses of every description, thus prepared, will afterwards bear boiling water poured on them without injury. 276 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. HAMPSHIRE, FRANKLIN, AND HAMPDEN AG- RICULTURAL SOCIETY. The Executive CommiUee of the Hampshire, Frnnklin, and Hampden Agricultural Society have awarded the following premiums for agri- cultural experiments made during the last sea- son— To Charles Starkweather, Esq. of Northamp- ton, the society's first premium for the greatest quantity of corn raised on an acre, being ninety- two bu-hels ; measured Nov. 7, 18?i — g1o,(jO. To the Rev. Doct. Lyman, of llatticld. the second premium for the next greatest quantity raised on an acre, eighty-two bushels and one pint; measured Feb. 10,"lt!2J — gI2,()i>. To Joseph Lyman Partridge, of Hatfield, the 3d premium for the next greatest quaiititj' raised on an acre, seventy-five bushels ; measured Feb. 10, 1823— $10,00. To Samuel Buffinton, Esq. of Worthington, the society's first premium for the greatest quan- tity of flax and llax seed raised on an acre and twenty-seven rods; — seventeen bushels and 18 quarts of seed, and four hundred and eighty-nine pounds of flax, dressed clean — jjilO,00. The mode of culture is slated as follows : Mr. Starkweather states that his land was in the furrow in the spring of 1821 ; it had been turned up the autumn before. It had been for several j'cars down to grass ; it was harrowed with a common seed harrow, and planted in drills three feet apart ; about eight or nine loads of common yard manure were put in the drills ; the crop that year was fifty-eight bush- els. In the spring of 1822, the stalks were cut, and burnt on the ground ; nineteen loads of manure were then spread over it, and harrowed down smooth ; it was then planted three feet wide, and two and a half apart, and eight loads of manure put in the hills; three corns of the largest yellow corn, were put in each hill. The land was low and subject to inundation, and was not planted until the last of May. The Flev. Doct. Lyman states that his land was planted early in May, and the seed gener- ally failed of sprouting, and was planted a sec- ond time near the last of May ; many hills of the first planting entirely failed, and others partially ; part of the field was materially in- jured by a late frost. The manner of plant-' ing was, that one half was planted in rows of the common width, and about a yard or two and a half feet between the hills; in the other half, the hills were about the common distance of planting ; each hill was manured in the hole ; the quantity of manure about eight common waggon loads; after the first hoeing each hill received a sprinkling of unleached ashes; the whole number of bushels was about six. The jiart of the field which was most closely plant- ed was once suckered, and the suckers given to '.he cows ; it was a rich soiling of two cows for about half the scasor, and afforded a three fold compensation for al! the labor attending the process. At harvest the difference of the pro- duce from the two parts of the field was incon- siderable. The portion which was not sucker- ed, had a slight advantage ; but the profit on the whole was greatly in favor of suckering on account of the ample, and rich teed, it afforded to two cows for many weeks. The land for many preceding years was im])reved about one half in mowing, and the other part in pasturing. In the autumn of 1821, the turf was turned with the plough ; in the spring following, it was ef- fectually levelled with a seed harrow. The field was cultivated faithfully with the corn barrow and hop ; it was harrowed three times, and hoed four limes. If there was any dilTerence in tlie product of land which had been in pas- ture, or that which was mowed, the decision by the eye was in favor of that which had been mowed. Dr. Lyman further states that by long experience he is convinced, that unleached ash- es are the best manure for corn, to be applied after the first hoeing, at the rate of from five to ten bushels the acre ; he believes that they arc indispensable for securing a good crop on land turned up from the sward, in order to pre- vent the ravages of worms. Like experience, has also convinced him, that the second year after turning up the sward, is by far the best for ensuring a large harvest of Indian corn ; it sprouts better, it ripens sooner, and is more heavily loaded with fruitful ears. The corn which Doct. Lyman planted, was the twelve rowed corn — very large ears, the kernels close- ly compacted, and remarkably filled to the end of the cob ; and when shelled a bushel weighed sixty-four and three quarters pounds — which ex- ceeds the weight of common eight rowed corn nearly two pounds per bushel. Major Buffinton states, that the land on which his flax was raised, was pasture land, broken up in the spring of 1821, and planted that year with potatoes ; about sixteen loads of coarse barn yard manure were put in the hills ; the potatoes were hoed twice and the land was not ploughed after the crop was harvested. There was no manure put on the ground last spring ; it was ploughed twice and sowed the 2d day of May, with one bushel and twelve quarts of seed. The flax was pulled the 12th and 13th of August. JOSEPH LYMAN, President. PENNSYLVANIA AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY. At the first Quarterly Meeting, held at Nor- ristown, on the 11th of January, 1823, the fol- lowing Resolutions were unanimously adopted : That the President be authorized to petition the Legislature, for an Act of incorporation for this Society, and for such a modification of the Act, entitled ao "• Act for the promotion of Ag- riculture, &c." as shall authorize its oflicers to receive from the Commissioners of Counties Dollars, and to perform their duties as effectively, as if the Pennsylva- nia Agricultural Society had been organized, in confi)rmity with the sections of said Law — and that he shall endeavor to obtain some provision by which the sale of Spirilous Liiiuurs sludl be effectually prevented zjithin the distance of three miles from the place at "Jihich the Agricultural Exhibitions shall be held, except at houses licensed according to law. That as this is an Association of practical Farmers, disposed to acquire and communicate mlormation derived from essays on the soil, it shall be the duty of one of the Assistant Secre- taries, to record the substance of all verbal communications, which any of the members shall make, at the quarterly meetings. That a committee be appointed to report up- on Mr. Pope's Thrashing Machine, which has been this day exhibited. Whereupon Job Rob- erts, John Hare Powell, and Henry L. Waddell were appointed. That the Directors be instructed ;o give ntf tice, in such manner as they shall think fit, e' the intention of this Society, to award premi urns, at their Annual Meeting, for Neat Cattle Sheep, Horses, Swine, Crops, Implements Husbandry, and Household Manufactures- -th value of the prizes, to be determined at tk next Quarterly meeting, .\ccordingly, Williai Harris of Chester county, George Sheaff ( Montgomery county, Henry L. Waddell ofBucb ■ county, Aaron Clement of Philadelphia count' and Thomas Serrill of Delaware county, wei constituted a Committee from the Board of D rectors — Job Roberts, Manual Eyre, Samui West, and Charles Downing were subsequent! ajjpointed to aid them. The Committee appointed to examine M Pope's Thrashing machine, reported — '• After having carefully examined the co slruction, and observed the performance of M Pope's Hand Thrashing machine, we are d; posed to think, that it is well adapted to tl purposes of small farms ; as it has in our prt ence, thrashed Wheat without difTicuity, at tl rate of sixty sheaves an hour." JOB ROBERTS, JOHN HARE POWELL, HENRY L. WADDELL. Mr. Joseph Kersey of Chester Count}', ma a communication on an ingenious mode of ms ing Thrashing flails — a communication on Shee accompanied by observations, on the expulsi of Rats. Mr. Job Roberts of Montgomery county, co municated the result of his experience, corn orative of Mr. Kersey's remarks. Mr. Powell of Philadelphia county, made t following communications on Mangel Wurt: and Millet : — I have certificates, accompanied by the oa of my farmer and his assistant, showing t' 982), bushels of Mangel Wurtzel were produ< on 155^ perches of land, which had not rece ed more manure than is usually given to pot crops in this county. The soil had been vi deeply ploughed, aud stirred by Beatson's Sc ifier, the manure was after ploughsd nine io' '^ es under the surface, the Scarifier having bt again applied, the roller and harrow were u: to .educe the tilth. In April, the seeds w( dibbled an inch deep — three inches apart, rows thirty inches asunder. Soon after < plants appeared, they were thinned, and left intervals of six inches — when their leaves I become two inches long, they were cleaned a four inch triangular hoe. The earth i weeds were thrown from them, by a very sn one horse plough, leaving a space of four five inches unbroken next to them. The f row was returned by Davis' shovel plough ; tJ were again hoed, and left a foot apart. In first week of November, they were dra^ closely cut beneath the crowns, measured, pi in a cellar in rows, as wood, and covered w sand. The expense of planting, tilling, s gathering the crop, was about equal to that Indian corn. My neat cattle prefer Mangel Wurtzel to i roots which I have offered to them. I hi found its effects, in producing large secret! of good milk, very great. I selected in I verober, two heifers of the same breed, and rv nearly of the same age, and in similar cor tion ; lliey were tied iu adjoining stalls, : w Is :1 NEW ENGLAND FARiMER. 277 1 lieen fed regularly three times a day, by same man. One of them has had three a of Mangel Wurtzel, and four quarts of meal daily ; the other, four and a half ;s of Mangel Wurtzel. The last, which has Mangel Wurtzel alone, is in the condition ood beef, the other is not more than what iiers call half fat. am aware that repeated experiments on va- animals, must be made, to sanction any : ;i 3ral conclusion, as to the comparative effects liferent sorts of food. I mention the trial I the heifers, but as one of a series of al- pts which I shall make, to determine, whe- the great German Beet can be as effective- pplied to the formation of fat, as to the pro- tion of milk, and the enlargement of size. hirty perches of this field produced more ts, than nearly two acres which were differ- ?i! y managed at the same time. Much de- ds upon the kind of seed — upon the great th of ploughing, and fineness of the tilth — not less is dependant upon the quantity of nal manure. Among the various practices . which we have been seduced, by the plau- e theories of the advocates of British sys- s of husbandry, there is none which appears ie more absurd, than that which has led us to , or dibble, our crops on ridges. The English ner wisely contends with the evils produced too much rain — the American husbandman uld as anxiously guard against his most for- able enemy, drought. I am inclined to ik that there is no crop, cultivated in this e, which ought not to be put upon a flat sur- n citing the experiment upon feeding with igel Wurtzel, I have no intention to convey idea so preposterous as some of the '• Fan- i" have conceived, that Mangel Wurtzel, or of the fashionable roots of the day, should Tfere with the king of vegetables, Indian •n ; or that where land is cheap, and labor r, a farmer is " wise to amuse himself," and i his bullocks by plucking the luxuriant veg of " the majestic Beta Altissima." 1 uld merely recommend its cultivation, to a ited extent, on all farms. Its influence upon le cattle, milch cows, and more especially )n calves, during their first winter, is very Dortant. I have attended, with great accura- te the ills which are brought upon most jng quadrupeds, when first weaned ; and ire invariably found them materially diminish- by the use of succulent roofs. The application of Mangel Wurtzel as food sheep, is not the least important of its uses. tes yean usually at the season when grass inot be supplied. The health of them- ves, and the thrift of their lambs, essentially pend upon succulent food being had. I am ;lined to think, that no small portion of the xess which English breeders have met, is to ascribed to the large stores of roots, which ay always have at command. It cannot be nied that Indian meal will, of itself, in most ses, produce extraordinary fatness, as well as eat size — but I have been led to believe, that leases are early engendered by this species ot rciag, which is always expensive, and too of- n eventually destroys the animal, vvhich has len thus reared. I was induced to cultivate this vegetable, by e success of Mr. Isaac C. Jones, who I may venture to assert, after the most diligent inqui- ry, is the only person, by whom it had been grown in this state, except in small patches or gardens, until within two years. I am, &.C. yours, JOHN HARE POWELL. Jox.vriu.N Roberts, Esq. President q/ Penn. Agricullural Socictii. I have made many experiments on various soils, and at different seasons, to ascertain the product, as well as the properties of Millet. I'pon light land, in good condition, it succeeds l>est, it requires in all cases, fine tilth, and as much strength of soil as is necessary to produce heavy oats. I have not seen, either in Europe or America, any green crop, which so largely rewards accurate tillage and plentiful supplies of manure, as the species of millet usually grown in this and the adjacent counties. 1 have sown it from the first of May, to the 20th of June, and have invariably obtained more fodder than could have been had from any grass under similar circumstances. In the autumn, eighty bushels of eoj«(!c lime per acre, were strewed upon an old sward, which was immediately ploughed, closely harrowed, sown with rye, and rolled — the rye was depastured in the winter and succeeding spring — early in April the land was ploughed again ; the lime and decomposed vegetable matter was thus returned to the sur- face— about three weeks after it was harrowed, to destroy weeds ; early in May it was again harrowed for the same purpose — within a fort- night it was stirred with Beatson''s Scarifier, to the depth of nine inches, harrowed, sown with Millet, and rolled. The crop was fairly estima- ted at three tons per acre. After the millet was cut, the field was stirred, and repeatedly harrowed, to destroy the after growth of nox- ious plants. I intend to again sow rye, not on- ly to obtain pasturage, but to protect the soil from the exhalations of the sun. In the succeed- ing spring, a slight dressing of fresh manure was ploughed under; the scarifier, roller, and harrow were used at intervals as before. On the 5th of May, five bushels of millet seeds were sown on four acres — on the 5th of July the crop was hauled, and estimated at four tons per acre. I have obtained this season, forty tons from sixteen acres, of which lour only had been manured, the remainder could not have borne a good wheat crop. One of the loads was weighed ; an account of them was regular- ly kept ; their size was made as nearly equal as possible. I have generally used a large quanti- ty of seed, as not more than two-tliirds of that which is usually sown, will vegetate. Whilst my oxen consumed millet in its green state, they performed their work with more spirit and vigor than they had done before, or have shewn since, except when fed with grain. My cattle, of all ages, prefer it to both red, and the best white ciover, meadow or timothy hay. I am not disposed to cultivate it as a farinace- ous orop, since 1 have ibund great difficulty in protecting it from the ravages of immense flocks of birds, which it attracts, and in secur- ing it sufiiciently early to prevent a large part of the grain from being left on the ground. The seeds on the upper parts of the stalks, gen- erally ripen, and fall, before those below have been filled. I therefore invariably cut it, when the upper parts of most of the heads contain seeds, which arc hard. All my observations have confirmed mo in the belief, that in this stage it affords fodder, more nutritious, and more easily made, than any sort of hay. The expense of tilling (he land, in the accurate' manner which I have detailed, is not so great as at first view would appear. A yoke of good oxen can scarify three acres and an iialf, with- out difficulty, in one day. I would recommend millet, not merely for its value as a food, but for the means it affords of making clean the land, without summer fallows, or drill crops. The ingenious arguments which have been ad- duced to prove, that deep stirring between grow- ing crops is advantageous to them and the soil, are founded upon English experience, properly directed by close attention to the eflects of a. moist climate. Home of our writers have pro- foundly asserted, that as" dew drops"' are found on the under leaves of plants after deep stir- ring has been given in a time of great drought, the practice is sound. I should suggest, if I were allowed, that moisture had better be at such times, conveyed to the roots, than be exhaled by the sun, or placed on the leaves until his rays shall have exhausted it all. The valuable parts of most manures, readily assume the gase- ous torm — every deep stirring, to a certain ex- tent, in hot weather, therefore, impoverishes the soil. Deep ploughing, at proper seasons, is, I conceive, the basis of all good farming ; such crops as shall enable the husbandman to extirpate weeds, and obtain large supplies of fodder, without much exhaustion, should be the great objects for his aim. I would propose that a foul sward receive its proper quantity of quick lime, which should be spread, and plough- ed under, in its caustic state, in the early part of September ; that the field be harrowed suffi- ciently ; sown with rye at the rate of two bush- els per acre, as early as possible — that it be depastured late in the autumn, and eafly in the spring — that in May, it be again ploughed three inches deeper than before— that it be harrowed, and left until the small weeds begin to appear — early in June, Millet should be sown — in Au- gust, the crop can be removed after the labors of the general harvest. The field should be slightly stirred with the scarifier, occasionally harrowed, and left throughout September, for the destruction of weeds as belbre. In Octo- ber it may be manured, and sown with wlieat, or left for a crop of Indian Corn. I am, kc. vour's, JOHN HARE POWELL JoNATHA.N' Roberts, Esq. President of Penn. Agricultural Society. Dr. Taylors easy method of ascertaining the qua- lities of Marie, Lime Stones, or (^uick Lime, for the purposes of Agriculture. This was a communication by Dr. Taylor, to the Manchester [Eng.] Agricultural Society ; the general use of marie and lime, as manures, having prompted him to point out the impor- tance of an easy and certain method of deter- mining the qualities of Jitferent earths and stones, and ascertaining the quantity of calcare- ous earth in their composition ; their value, in agriculture, commonly increasing in proportioo to the greater quantity of it which they contain The process recommended is thus described: The marie or stone being dried, and reduced to powder, put half 9Ji ounce of it into a haJc' 27 a NEW ENGLAND FARMER. pint sflass, potirin!» in clear unter till the or'^'^s is hairi'ull ; tliPii ijrniliinlly add a small quaiilitv of strong' inarinn acid, commonly called spirit of salt, and stir the mixture uell together. As soon as the ellervesceiioe thus excited subsides, add a little more marine acid; thus continuins;' the operation while any of the earthy matter ap- pears to dissolve ; and till the liquor, after be- ing' ivell stirred and allowed to stand for half an liour, appears sensibly acid to the taste. AVhen the mixture has suh-ided, if the li(j\ior above it be colorless, that niatle or lime stone is the liest which leaves the least in quantity of sedi- ment or deposit at the bottom of liie glass, This experiment is suHicient to determine w hich of the samples tried is most proper for the uses of agriculluro ; as pure calcareous earth or lime, ^vhicll is the earth useful in ag- riculture, will be entirely dissolved, but clay or sand will not be sensibly acted on by the acid. Where great accuracy is required in determin- ing the experiment, lay a soft spongy paper, of Which the \veight is exactly taken, in an earth- en cclander — lor no metallic vessel, or imple- ment (or stirring, &c. must be used in any part of the process — and, pouring the saturated mixture of earth and acid on it, let all the li- quor filter through ; then pour a little clear wa- ter over the earthy matter remaining on the filter; and, when that water has al-o tiitered through, dry the paper with the earthy matter on it which remains undissolved, when the defi- ciency found, on weighing them, from their original weight, will discover what portion of the marie or lime has been dissolved in the acid. What quantity of earthy matter has been dissolved, may be made evident to the sight, by gradually adding to the liquor which has been tiitered through the paper, a clear solution of pearl ashes, or ashes of burnt wood ; this will occasion a precipitation of the contained lime or calcareous earth to the bottom of the vessel, which precipitate must be dried and weighed. THE FARiMER. BOSTO;^ .—SATURD^iY, MARCH 29, 18-23. The Farmer's and Gardener's Remembrancer. MARCH AXD APRIL. Sowing Grass Land. — Those cultivators who propose to lay down land to grass, and have not sowed their grass seed with their winter grain should sow it about this time. Some say that grass seed cannot be sowed too early in the spring, and others advise to wait till the ground becomes a little warmed and dried by the sun. Should you thinlc it advisable to spring-harrow your winter grain, which is a practice highly recommended by liritish and American agricul- turists, you can at the same time, harrow in your grass seed. If not, sow it without harrow- ing in damp calm weather. Accidental Mamke. — As soon as the ground is bare of snow in the spring, turn out with your boys, and parade over your pasture land, (and your mowing lots if you ever permit cat- tle to I'eed on them, which by the bye is not a good practice) and with bats or long handled mallets beat and spread about the droppings of your cattle. Top Dke-ssivcs. — If you neglected to manure your mowing Und with top-dressings last fall, it may be done in the spring ; though it is gen- erally held that manure is applied to grass land to the best advantage in autumn.* Dr. Deane observed, '• If the applicatioa of top dressings to mowing ground >vere generally practiced, and repeated as it ought to be, instead of the general, or rather universal neglect of it, it would put a new face upon things. A vast plenty of hay, double crops, two cuttings in a year, and much increase of wealth to farmers in general would be the happy consequences."! .Sir John Sinclair recommends top dressing a growing crop, when it is suspected that the land is not rich enough to bring a I'ull crop to per- fection, and directs that this should be done as early in (he spring as the land becomes suffi- ciently dry to bear the treading of a horse with- out poaching ; and after the manure has been applied, the land should generally be harrowed or roiled. Soot, ashes, and other light manures are thus most advantageously disposed o(.\ A few bushels of lime, thoroughly pulverized and air slacked, are recommended as top dres- sings for winter grain. Ashes too, either leach- ed or dry, make a good top dressing for grass or grain, as well as for Indian corn. Dry un- leached ashes are best, but leached ashes are valuable, particularly soaper's waste, which has lime mixed with it. Sprin<, Ploighi.ng. — A prudent farmer will manage his affairs in such a way as to have as little ploughing to perform in the spring as pos- sible. In general way it is thought that all the land which it is intended to sow with any kind of grain, in the spring, or to plant with pota- toes, or Indian corn, &.c. should, by all means, be ploughed the autumn preceding. You thus take advantage of the beneficial operation of frosts in the winter, which pulverize the soil to better effect than any mechanical means. And, often, when ploughing is well done in autumn, it will not be necessary to renew it in the spring. We have seen very fine crops of In- dian corn, raised on land which had been strong- ly swarded with grass, and had received but one ploughing, which was given some time in the summer or fall preceding the season in which the crop was planted. But it is necessary in such case that the ploughing be deep, and the furrow completely turned, so that every parti- cle of the grass may be buried. In great Bri- tain, where labor is comparatively much cheap- er than in the United States, spring-ploughing is often dispensed with. A very eminent agri- culturist observed that " the preferable method of sowing oats, and especially in a clay soil, is to turn the field over, after harvest, and to lay it open to the influences of t'rost and air ; which lessen the tenacity of the clay and reduce it to a fine mould. The surface soil by this means, is finely mellovped for the reception of the seed ; ~ji:lnch it Zfould be a pity to bury by a sec- ond plouglnng, before sorc'ing. We are taught by experience, that this soil, ploughed before win- ter, is sooner dry, than when the ploughing is delayed till spring ; and as early sowing is a great advantage, any objection on account of the superficial crusting is easily removed by a strong harrow, which would produce abundance of mould for covering the seed."§ Sir John Sinclair, likewise, says that '■'■ploughing lands in spring., ■when sujjiciently clear, and prepared be- *Sce Messrs. Wells & Lilly's edition of Deane's Geoigical Dictionary, p. 458. t Ibid. J Code of Agriculture. i! Kaimes' Gentleman Farmer. fore -iiiinter, is an unnecessary increase of labor He allow,s, however, that cases may occur. which spring ploughing may be' advisable oats, barley, &c. in order to subdue wee Likewise, on hard, stony soils, or where ploughing h;us been imperfectly executed, spi ploughing becomes requisite. But whether; land is ploughed in the spring or not, plougl it in autumn has many advantages, among ^vh|^] that of exposing worms and other insects, whi infest the soil, to the intense frosts of winter,! not the least. WoRKiNo Oxr.N. — It has been asserted t' working oxen perform their spring work i 'better for being fed two or three times a iwith a few cars of Indian com. This kim I food is, however, thought by others, to possf] a heating quality and they therefore prefer I potatoes, which, they say, operate both as and physic, and cool and strengthen the ani Tastire for Swine. — A lot v?ell seeded di to clover has been recommended by good mers as highly useful for pasturing swine, quantity of land should be so proportiouei the number of swine that they may keep grass from going to seed. This will pre' waste, and the shorter the grass is the swei it will be, and the more agreeable to the pal; of this kind of epicures. It was the opinion Dr. Deane, that one acre of rich land in clovi would support twenty or more swine, large ai small, through the summer, and bring them w( forward in their growth. The hogs should 1 well ringed, or, it is said by an English write that shaving ofl' the gristle of young pigs wi a sharp knife, will answer the purpose of pr venting them from rooting, and be better for tl , animals than ringing. Arthur Young, a famo \ English writer on Agriculture, pastured six ,, f«ur swine, of various sizes, on two acres ,.', ground. The pig-pasture should have a go. ., supply of water. A few sweet apple tre( growing in the pasture, will furnish a kind food, which will assist to increase the growt and will in part fatten the swine. Hogs, ho« ever, should not be turned into their pastuij till about the first of May ; but those who ha< not a clover pasture for their use may set aboi preparing one as soon as they please. Pruning Fruit Trees. — Many farmers hav been in the habit of pruning theiT fruit trees i, . February and March, but this is wrong. "I March the sap is retained in the roots, and th bark adheres closely to the wood; consequen ly, the wounds occasioned by the amputatio of branches being exposed to the cold, penefrr ting winds and frosts, before the circulation c the sap, become dry, rotten and cankered, au often crack open near to the main trunk. Ii old orchards, particularly, if limbs of any con. siderable size are lopped off, several inch* from the trunk, before the sap is in active mo tion, the fresh bark round the wood become dry ; large cavities are formed, which rapidlj| extend towards the trunk and heart, and tht tree is soon deprived of its health and vigor. In our New England climate, we have the clear- est indications that the sap commences its circu- lation about the 10th of April. From this peri- od to about the last of May, whether the budt^ are just opening or the blossoms fully expanded, the pruning should be accomplished. "t The ♦Code of Agriculture. + Thacbcr's American Orchardist, p. 64. IW" NEW ENGLAND FARxMER. 279 01 Mr. Pickering-, likewise says tliat his •^ctice has been to prune in the spring-, be- *)g when the buds have scarcely begun to rt|, and ending before the expanfion of the !*s."* Mr. Forsyth, likewise, in his Treatise Juit Trees (p.' 18, Cobbett's Edition) says, ive a great dislike to autumnal pruning, the spring, \vhen the sap is beginning to the knife, the lips will quickly grow."' — writer whose essay on the subject of ap- ees, is published in the Massacliusetts Jig- iral Repository, -p. 121 to 127, instating errors in the mode of managing orchards ons that beginning to prune in March, •n there is still much wet and frosty er, and no activity in the sap of the free," y injurious. These authorities are pro- fo show what should not be done, till the 1 is further advanced ; and to evince that ■.isapplication of labor is oftentimes more lental to a farmer, than sheer idleness. iLY Peas. — As soon as possible prepare an piece of ground for the reception of peas. Icbbett gives the following directions for J peas. " I ploughed the ground into , the tops of which (for the dwarf sorts) four feet apart. I then put a good parcel d dung into the furrows ; and ploughed irth back upon the dung. I then levelled p of the ridge a little, and drew two drills upon it at six inches distant from each In these 1 sowed the peas. When the fere about three inches high, I hoed the 1 deep and well between the rows and on outside of them. I then ploughed the I from them and to them again, in the ■way as in the case of Swedish Tur- in a week or two afterwards they had r ploughing ; and soon after they fell and iziin tkc fides of the ridges. When not , and sown upon level ground, peas fall rregtdarty, and in case of much wet, the pods rot ; but from the ridges they fall .•ly, and the wet does not lodge about Yon walk up the furrows to gather the and nothing can be more beautiful or onvenient. The culture in the garden ! the same, except that the work which ; with the plough, in the field, must in the be done with the sparfc." — American ler, Par. 241. Mr. M'Mahon directs, ''in 0 give the first early crops a greater ad- prepare a south border of dry light "or their reception, and raise the earth ow sloping ridges, about a foot brond at 16, and nine inches high, and at the dis- if three feet from each other ; ranging na south west direction, from the north the border ; then on the easterly sides of idges about half their height, sow your it peas, pretty thick, covering tlietn about 1 and an half, or if the land be very nd light, two inches, or if of a stiff na- le inch in depth. In this situation, they ve all the advantage of the morning and lie dry, and will consequently ipit iPei jiali mi, rijiil ao; ilii line »y in vegetation much more rapidly than > in the ordinary way." — .imcrican Cur- Calendar. to' Deane observed that for field peas, land to newly ploughed out of sward is general- th( .unted best ; and land which is high and eiplfld has not been too much dunged. The *:y. E. Farmer, No. 32, p. 250. sorts, which grow large, should have a weaker soil ; in a stronger soil the smaller sorts an- swer. Our farmers do not commonly allow a sullicient (|uantity of seed i'or pease in broad cast sowing. When sowed thin they lie upon tlie ground, but if sowed thick tlioy hold eacii other up. Mr. Deane recommended three bush- els to an acre. In sowing peas in rows which grow six or seven feet high, to have the rows 12 or 11 feet apart, with rows of carrots or onions, &c. between them is lliought a good practice. — ■^^^— — ^^ CCj-WAR DECLARED !— The Erig Parthian, Capt. Nye, has arrivpd at New Bedford, in :Jj days from Lis- bon. Capt. Nye reports, that the day before he sailed, Mr. Hutcliiusoii, our Consul there, informed him, that aecounts had been received of WAR'S BEING DE- CLARE.D BETWEEN FRANCE AND SPAIN. NEW GARDEN SEEDS. FOR sale, by GEO. MURDOCK, No. 1.1, Market Square, a ^real variety of English and American (iARDE.N .SEEDS, i.f lln last year's growlli ; consist- ing oil arly Frame, Kolsjinr and Charlton Peasi ; early anil late (Jahbagc ; early and late C'anliflower ; Sweet .Marjoram, 'i'liyme, ice. vilh every other Se( d suitable for a Kitchen Garden, .iho, -10 lbs. Mangel Wurtztl or Scarcity — 100 lbs. Rnia Baga or S^^■cdi^h Turnip — a quantity of ArmacU or Carrot. March 'J!'. — 6w AGRtCULTURAE SOCIETY IN VIRGINIA. A meeting of " The Agricultural Society of the Val- ley," was held at Wmchester, (Va.) on the 1st inst. and after a very able address lioui the President, and some other proceedings of local interest, Mr. William M. Barton presented to the .Society some Flax, cleaned by a new invented machine, accompanied by a letter from Gen. Samuel Swartout, of New York, in which he describes the facility with which one man can clean fla>:, amounting to 100 lbs. cleaned for the hackle in one day — the price to be $100. The machine, owing to some disappointment, was not exhibited. The same gentleman presented some rape or cole seed, a present from the Hon. De Witt Clinton, of New York, which was assigned to Edward M'Guire, Esq. Treasurer, for distribution among the most careful farmers. *^ This plant has Jong been celebrated iu Ireland and England, for its great utility in feeding sheep, as being remarka- bly hardy and capable of sustaining the most severe winter without injury. It is a species of cabbage, and is also celebrated for the oil it produces, which answers for baruing in lamps. The cake also is valuable for feeding cattle, and serves as a m.anure." A letter was presented to the Society by Mr. Wm. M. Barton, from Judge Buel, of Albany, N. Y. giving an account of his mode of cultivating the Ruta Baga, or Swedish turnip, upon a clover lay previously mowed, in which he was very svtccessful, the acre having produced 500 bushels. The following gentlemen were chosen honorary mem- bers of this Society :— Hon. Dc Witt Clinton and Jesse Buel, Esq. of the State of New York ; Hon. Josiah Quincy, Thomas L. ^\"intbrop, Esq. S. W. Pomeroy, Es(j. and Dr. Dexter, of or near Boston. Exhibition of Horses. — We learn from the last N. Hampton Gazette, that " the Executive Committee of the Hampshire, Franklin and Hampden Agricultural Society, propose to their fellow citizens of the three counties, to have an exhibition of Horses, in the village of Springfield, in the county of Hampden, on Wednes- day, the 21st day of May next." They likewise olTer premiums to the amount, iu all of $131, for the best stud horse, breeding mare, gelding horses, ice. 4;c. Safforefs Slraio Cutter. — We have seen a Machine in operation for cutting straw. Sec. invented by Mr. Noah SalTord, of Springfield, Vermont, which we believe to combine more advantages than any other ever put in use, taking into consideration its cheapness, simplicity, ilc. We are well assured that it will cut, with tlie moderate labor of one man, a bushel of straw in a mi- nute, or sixty bushels in an hour. The notice of the improvement which is given in Mr. S.''s advertisement, together with the testimonial in its favor, bearing the signatures of persons who are good judges of the merits of machinery of this sort>, supersede the a«cessity of any further remarks from us. OO" We are compelled, for want of room, to omit several articles intended for this day's paper ; and among others an advertisement for Mr. Osborn's Poems, which shall appear in our next. DIED— In Washington, on the 17th inst. the Hon. Brockholst LivjiicsTON, one of the Judges of the Supreme Court of the United States, aged 65. SAFFORDS STRAW CUTTER. rrillE utility of cutting Hay, Straw, and other sub- JL stances lor /ceding cattle, is now so universally acknowledged that any remarks on the subject must he deemed supcrlluous. The following Certificate -will therefore be conclusive of the merits of the above men- tioned Machine. Boston, .March 22, 1823. We, the subscribers, have in operation a Straw Cutting Machine invented and exhibited in this city by .Noah Safford, and we do not hesitate to say that in our opinion it excecils any other we have ever seen, for cheapness, simplicity, despatch and durability. Stkphf.n Hartwkll, Spvrr U Holmes, Hkzekiah Eart,, Andrew Slater. (C^ The above mentioned Machines may be had of J. R. NEWELL, at the Agricultural E.stablishment, No. 20, Merchant's Row, Boston. Price $15. PRICES OF COUNTRY PRODUCE, kc. [Revised and corrected every Friday.] ASHES, pot, 1st qual. . . . pearl do BEANS, white, BEEF, mess, 200 cwt. . . . cargo, No. 1 " No. 2 BUTTER, inspect. 1st qual. . " 2d qual. . small kegs, family, CHEESE, new milk .... FLAX FLAX SEED FLOUR, Baltimore, superfine, Gcnessee .... Rye, best .... GRAIN, Rye Corn Barley Oats HOGS' LARD, 1st sort . . HOPS, No. 1, LIME, OIL, Linseed, American PLAISTER PARIS .... PORK, Navy .Mess .... Bone Middlings . . . Cargo, No. 1, . . . Cargo, No. 2, . . . SEEDS, Herd's Grass . . • Clover WOOL, Merino, full blood,washed do. do. unwashed do. 3-4 washed do. 1-2 do. Native .... do. Pulled, Lamb's, 1st sort do. Spinning, 1st sort PROVISIO.y MARKET. BEEF, best pieces .... PORK, fresh VEAL, MUTTON, POULTRY BUTTER, keg & tub ... lump, best . . . EGGS, MEAL, Rye, ...... Indian, ..... POTATOES, CIDER, liquor, H.\Y, best, from TO D. C. D. C. on. 147 00 150 00 155 00 157 50 bush 1 00 1 10 bbl. t) 50 10 00 !! 50 9 00 G 50 7 00 lb. 14 15 I'J 13 i:, 1« 7 9 i; 9 bush c:- 90 bbl. 7 50 7 62 7 50 7 75 4 50 5 00 bush 80 83 G5 70 6.1 65 43 46 lb. 9 10 12 cask 1 25 1 30 gal. C5 70 ton. 3 00 3 25 bbl. 12 00 12 50 14 00 14 50 12 00 12 50 11 00 11 50 bush 2 25 2 50 lb. 8 9 55 65 45 47 45 47 40 45 3.^ 40 55 60 47 50 lb. 8 10 6 8 e 9 5 V 7 12 15 16 Ifi 18 doz. M 16 bush 85 90 80 8S 37 bbl. 1 50 ton. 20 001 24 00 i) 280 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. THE lARMER.— BY t. c. fesse.vdex. Let monifiil blockhc-a No paper will be discontinued (unless discretion of the Publisher) until arrearages are 0:5= Agents who procure seven subscribers, 3 come responsible for the payment, will be entitl copy gratis, and in the same proportion for? number. f^ Complete files from the couuneucemcot paper in August cam be furutshcd. 3 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. PUBLISHED BY THOiMAS W. SHEPARl) KOCrEllS' BUILDINGS, CONGRESS STREET, (EOURTII DOOK IROM STAiE SIHEET.) Vol. I. BOSTON, SATURDAY, APRIL 5, 1823. No. 36. SAVING AND MAKING MANURE. ^V 6A THE MOST OF ventetl. A proper quantit_y of fresh earth, mis- led with or thrown over any putrescent, mould)', BY THE EDITOR. Or fermenting substances, absorbs every thing- (Continued from p. 2150 I offensive or injurious, and changes the causes of ' have already been somewhat copious in pestilence into the sources of fertility. Amonj? b< a pamphlet published by said Society in Ocio. last. The Committee appointed by the Trustt of the Essex Agricultural Society, to exami the claims for premium for the best Mi agement of a Farm, submit the following F port: That they have received but four claii on this subject, viz. from the Hon. Willis Rartlet, of Newburyport, for his farm in ]W thuen ; from Col. Jesse Putnam and Capt. Di ley Bradstreet, of Danvers ; and from Mr. Iso Dodge, of Hamilton. Each of these farms was visited by the Co raittee in the month o{ July, when vegetati was most flourishing ; and the several sta ments of the claimants annexed to this rep< have been carefully examined. The farm of Mr. Bartlet in Methuen is ic' very high and superior state of cultivation, consists of about two hundred acres of land ; conveniently divided into lots ; and well fenc with the best of fences, Stone Wall. The i ler and neatness with which all the business the farm is conducted merits high approbati( The lands have been much improved by t removal of the stones for the building of w9 '•' and laying covered drains, by means of whi *• waste lands have been converted into fine c tivated fields. Great attention is paid to obta ing manure, and an abundant supply is made the farm. But most of all were the Committ I. illt ill •Cc 1« NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 2f>: la J with the ha'iits of sobriety auH temper- iiiculc.ned upon the laborers, and with the that so larg-e a farm, employing many . was carried on entirely without the use aiJent spirit at any season of the year. aid our farmers generally imitate this exam- they would soon find themselves relieved the heaviest tax with which they are at sent burthened. Your Committee are well ire of the advantages, in point of capital, sessed by Mr. Bartlet, over most other farm- in the county. Still they consider the itn- veraents he has made, such as are within means of, and worthy of imitation by, our ners generally ; and they are of the opinion t he is entitled to the first premium of thirty The farm of Col. Jesse Putnam, of Danvers, sisls of about 111 acres of land, and is well tivated. The orchards are superior to any have seen in the county, and the nianage- Qt of the young trees appears to be excellent. e methods pursued by Col. Putnam of subdu- the rough lands, aud reclaiming his wet adows, and turning them to fertile fields, are hly judicious. Great attention has been giv- en this farm to the making manure ; and ch benefit has been derived from the swine his particular. On the whole, your Corn- tee are of the opinion, that Col. Putnam is 1 entitled to the second premium of Czoentij 'art. ?he farm of Capt. Dudley Bradstreet, of Dan- s, consists of about 192 acres of land, and is I cultivated. The careful and accurate le of proceeding pursued by Mr. Bradstreet Aforthy of approbation. The crops on his Is appeared very fine ; and his mode of man- ment in general worthy of imitation. The nmittee were particularly pleased with the mination of a piece of swamp land, which :he skill and industry of Mr. Bradstreet has n made to produce an abundant crop of t^n- h hay. )n examining the farm of Mr. Isaac Dodge, Hamilton, the Committee are fully con- led in the opinion expressed in the report the last year. They consider Mr. Dodge I entitled to the approbation of the Society, his industry and skill in the cultivation of lands, and the zeal he has manifested in pro- :ing its interests. There has not been suffi- at time since the last year for him to make essential improvements. His crops, the sent year, appeared very tine. our Committee cannot close this Report lOut expressing their regret, that there e so few competitors for the premiums on management of a farm. They are sensible t there are farms in every town in the cohu- that would well bear an examination ; and haps many that would compare well with se they have been called upon to examine ; ut as the proprietors did not come forward h their claims, it was not in the power of Committee to bring them into the conipar- . Should these premiums be continued, it 0 be hoped that all our good farmers will UDteer their assistance in a cause, in which fail is no disgrace, but to succeed is the highest .or. JOHN ADAMS, i ^ TEMPLE CUTLER,^ LommUtee. D- 'anwrs, November 20, IBSi. NEW I'KIUOUICAL WOlUv. A new publication entitlid "Collections, Historical and Misci'llaneous, and Monthly Literary Journal," published by Jacob li. Moore, has lately been estab- lished at Concord, N. H. It has reached the 4th No. and merits liberal patronage and extensive circulation. It may serve to perpetuate the memory of worthy men, ;ukI worthy deed?, which, without such a work, might float down the current of time into the dead s( a of ob- livion. Some original pieces which have appeared in the work possess much merit. The biogiapMcal part must be interesting to evwy true American, as it bo- stows and promises the meed of fame to those who have benefited their country, and adorned society. The following is extracted from the last number. FIRST SETTLEMENT OF NEW HAMPSHIRE. Wide o'or the wilderness of waves, Untrackcd by human peril, Onr fathers roamed for peaceful graves. To deserts dark and sterile. Their daimtless hearts no meteor led, In terror, o'er the ocean ; From tbrtune and from fame they fled, To heaven and its devotion. Fate cannot bind the high-born mind To bigot usurpation : They, who had left a world behind, Now gave that world a nation. P.iiNE. Though the adventurers who formed the humble colony first planted at Pascataqua were of different habits from the pilgrims who set- tled at Plymouth, and may not have imitated their examples, nor have been drawn into the close ties which mutual danger serves to create and strengthen, — there is still something inter- esting, to us at least, in the circumstances of their landing. The discovery of this continent had already freighted the four winds with ex- alted ideas of its extent and value, when the in- trepid Smith, born with " a roving and romantic genius, and delighting in extravagant and dar- ing actions,"* directed his attention to North America. He had explored the coast of Vir- ginia, been a captive among the natives, and a father to the infant colony, — by his courage in- timidating, or by his address controlling the fan- cies of the Indians ; and now extended his en- terprises still farther north into unknown seas, ranging from east to west, and touching at the various islands stretching along the coast as if to defend the newly discovered continent from the violence of the stormy Atlantic. Smith landed upon the islands formerly called by his name, but at present known as the Isles of Shoals.f To the country east of Virginia he gave the name of TVck) England. New Hampshire was called Laconia. There are found in most coun- tries, men hardy enough to brave the rigors of the ocean and inclement seasons, for the pros- pect of gain, or of personal liberty. A howling wilderness, though its front may inspire a»ve, cannot subdue the hopes of the adventurer. He fancies mines of wealth concealed in the reces- ses of the country — golden dreams cheer his midnight slumbers, and ins|)irit his hours of wakefulness. Or on the other hand, the op- pressed may court the dangers of the deep, can they but aflbrd a refuge from the soul-sickening scourges of religious tyranny. While most of * Belknap. t Smith discovered these islands in 1614. It is not known for what reason their name was altered. In the deed of (he Indian sagamores to John Uheeliight in )6i!9, »' the Isles of Shoals, fo called by the English,'' are iacJuded. the settlers of Now England had one of these objects in view, it is not difficult to perceive that the former had a powerful influence with the early inhabitants of New Hampshire. A few humble fishermen from London were our common fathors. Cheered alike with the pros- pect of accumulating wealth, and tasting its en- joyments, they pitched their tents at Little Har- bor on the PibCiilaijua, in lG2o. The season of their landing is well known, and the place, with many circumstances attending it. It is now NEARLY TWO Cl'.N riT.IES flNCR THE EVEKT TOOK PLAC-i:. ^ From the. New York National Advocate. CONSUMPTIONS. On looking over the bills of mortality for the year 1822, we find that 1G92 men and women died in this eity, and out of nearly ninety dilTei- ent diseases G'M were of consumption alone. It would seem from the numbei^f victims to thi.s fatal disorder that it is an ^demick disease. This is not the fact, our climate does not pro- duce this disease ; it is the origin of careless- ness, and inditierence to cldHiing, habits and changes of atmosphere. A coitimon cold caught from carelessness, and running into a confirm- ed consumption by inattention, may be cited as the undeviating origin, and if we find children pale, sickly and puny, we shall discover that their parents were atlected with a touch of this insidious disease. We have always believed that wet or damp feet were the cause of coldj and consumptions, and ho»v easy it is to sacri- fice a little pride and fashion to ensure health and comfort? Yesterday was sloppy walking, though a fine atmosphere prevailed, yet we saw many ladies walking in Broadway with prunel- la shoes. A thin covering of leather only kept the wet from penetrating the soles of their feet and shooting up its damp and deadly venom to the breast, there first to produce a cough and then a slow hectic disorder, until the fell mon- ster, consumption, hurries them to the grave, full of hope, youth and expectation. Now, is it a great sacrifice to wear neat over- shoes, and keep their feet dry ? Will it ruin their shapes if they keep on their flannels a little longer ? Is it any consequence what Billy Fribble says about their appearance on the promenade ? Suppose they catch cold and it wears off; they must nurse themselves, bathe their feel, drink catnip tea, barley water, and lie in bed a day or two ; be nursed, coaxed, and scolded ; and, before they are strong again, out they sally, with kid slippers and naked elbows ; and then in bed again, and send for Doctor Hosack. We submit to our Knickerbockers, whether, in good old times when women wore pattens, and clattered over the muddy pavements, they ever died of consumptions ? Whether they ever had inflammation on the lungs, or rheumaticks, when they dressed in stiff brocades and quilted petticoats ? Rely upon it, that in the bills of mortality we shall have to add a new disease, viz : the bon ton. The whole population of Calcutta is found by a late accurate estimate, to be 111,^1. Besides these, who are residents, there are about 100,000 who daily enter and depart from the city. About 13,000 of the inhabitants are nominal Christiana, 48,000 Mahoni€tans, and 118,000 Hindoos. 284 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. ADDRESS OP THR HON. S. HALF, DELIVERED BEFORE THE CHESHIRE (n. H.) AGRICULTURAL SOCltTV, OCTO- BER, 1822. It was not without reluctance, my felloiv citi- zens, tliat I consented to undcrtako the (hity of addressing- you on this occasion. Althoug^h the first days of my existence — the days lo which 1 look back with most pleasure — were employed in the cultivation of the earth, yet for many years other pursuits have occupied tlic great- est portion of my thoughts and my time. I could not, therefore, 1 was sensible, communi- cate to you information derived from my own experience; but tiie reflection that you would doubtless have the candor to excuse my defi- ciencies, diminished my reluctance to perform the duty assigned mc. But however unacquainted I may be with the art of .Agriculture, I have ever felt for the cul- tivators of the so^ the respect which is justly dlie to that profplion which supports all others. When the^efo^a^#Agric^ltu^al Societies were first organized iijNew England — when the far- "'■mers instituted H^ir peculiar and .np[)ropriate holidays, in c^^on with others, 1 indulged wit^ pleasure tnfc expectation, that by means of tfiese their prosperity would be increased, and the profession attain to higher estimation in so- ciety. This expectation was strengthened by a recollection of the conduct of the other pro- fessions. The clergy have tiieir associations; the lawyers hold bar meetings; the physi- jfians ha,ve their medical societies, and occa- sionally assemble to communicate to each oth- er the discoveries and improvements they have made. If to all these professions this practice had been found advantageous, it was but natural i* to believe that farmers would derive equal ben- efit from a similar practice. Permit me to express my sincere regret that these Societies are now regarded with less fa- vor than formerly ; and my astonishment that their warmest opposers are found among those whom they are calculated most to benefit. And what are the objections against them ? It has been said that the premiums are often injudi- eiously and unjustly bestowed. Instances, no doubt, have occurred where the most worthy claimants have failed to obtain them. But the instances are few, ' and much fewer than they are supposed to be. Greater confidence ought certainly to be placed in the decisions of award- ing committees who are selected for their skill and act under a sense of responsibility, than in the opinions of casual observers and disappoint- ed competitors. But it cannot be pretended that in any instance a premium has been ob- tained without some degree of merit in the re- ceiver. If granted to a degree inferior only to the highest, it has certainly answered a valua- ble, if not the 7twst valuable purpose. It has rewarded industry and skill, and its etfecl to stimulate others to exertion is diminished in a slight degree, if diminished at all. It is another objection, that by the offer of a premium for the fattest steer or ox, and for the most abundant crop, the farmer is enticed to be- stow all his care upon one animal or upon one acre, to the neglect of all the rest. The reply to this objection is, that it is not for the fattest animal that the premium is ofl'ered, but the one having the most points of excellence ; and to raise one possessing these does not require that the others should be neglected. It requires only a good judgment, improved by careful ob servation of the dilTerent breeds and a due de gree of care and attention. As to crops, it is by no means clear, that the neglect of a part of the land will render them less abundant. In- deed it hardly admits of doubt, that the quanti ty of manure usually applied to two acres would, if applied to but one, yield, in most ca ses, the same profit to the farmer. Any expe- dient, therefore, which can entice him to till fewer acres, or to make a greater quantity of manure, must be beneficial to him and to the country. It certainly is not useless wisdom to know what is the utmost power of the soil and what the utmost efficacy of manure ; nor can there be danger that the farmers of this coun- try can be very soon induced to depart too far from the very prevalent error of bestowing their labor and spreading their manure upon too large a surface. It has often been objected that the expenses necessary to be incurred lo obtain a premium are generally greater than the amount of it, and the inference is deduced that the offer of it produces more injury than benefit. The /ac< is seldom so ; but were il often so, the inference would be incorrect and unwarranted. Does no permanent benefit result from the experiment made and the knowledge acquired ? Has not the successful competitor, and not he alone, but all the competitors, ascertained some new principle which they can afterwards apply with greater skill, or discovered some new method which they can afterwards simplify and extend ? Let me illustrate my meaning by a reference to the mechanic arts. Suppose a premium of one thousand dollars had been offered to the person who should invent the best machine to separate cotton from the seed. This premium although large, would not perhaps have been a sufficient recompense to the illustrious Whitney, for the machine he first contrived and completed. But in making the first, he might have ascertained what was possible to be etTected ; and in mak- ing the second and the third have learned how to simplify the structure in such a manner that he could afterwards erect a machine at even less expense than the cultivator of cotton could well afford to pay. Such is precisely the case in Agriculture. The farmer who has ascertain- ed by an experiment, which the offer of a pre- mium may have encouraged him to make, that an acre of land can be made to produce eighty or a hundred bushels of corn, may, at succes- sive trials, arrive at the same result in a more simple manner. He may ascertain that some parts of the process may be omitted without detriment, and that others may be executed at much less expense than at first. And this will be but a small portion of the benefit that will accrue. Others besides the competitors will be induced to make a trial. Inquiry will be awak- ened as to the means which were used to ob- tain such astonishing success. A knowledge of the best mode of cultivation will be extensive- ly diffused. The reputation and price of our lands will be raised; and fewer enterprising young men will leave the home of their fathers to bury themselves in the western wilderness. Ambition will be excited ; higher aims will be entertained ; a whole country will feel the in- vigorating influence, and advance a step for- ward lu the progress of improvment. It has moreover been observed, that as th f poor arc unable to incur the necessary experT SOS, the premiums are gained principally by th'l rich. If the poor cannot, and do not, incur th I expense of making an experiment, the obje( tion just considered loses all its force. If th'lf rich make expensive experiments, the mode' and results of which will -be known to all, an will contribute to the benefit of all, it is en tainly not unjust that they should receive frn a fund to which they largely contribute, a p tial, if not entire, remuneration. The farn. who considers himself poor ought indeed to r. joice that the rich can bo induced, partly !> the prospect of recompense, and partly by tli love of distinction, to make experiments in A. riculture, from which, if unsuccessful, 11, alone will sustain injury, but from which, if si, ces^ful, not only they, but he and his counti will derive essential advantage. They who make these objections take i narrow a view of the operation and eO'ecl these societies. They look at them only in i act of awarding premiums. They suppose tii their influence is felt by the competitors onl and that it ceases the moment the premium paid. Such a view is indeed quite too narro and circumscribed. Far more powerful and e tensive is their influence. It is felt by ma; who are not conscious of it; and by many wl regard with indifference, if not hostility, II cause oftheir own improvement. They rouse tin attention of farmers; they elicit facts, stat '' ments and theories ; they collect and aga spread information ; they elevate the agricult ral profession, by bringing the members of together, by making them acquainted with eai other, and by shewing them their collecti- strength. The emulation they excite aniraat every farmer to greater and more constant e *''< ertion. If one person raises a crop unusual B^ large, his neighbors, ashamed to be left far b Vs^ hind, will be stimulated by pride as well as I fiz interest, to strive to approach as near to him |« possible. " ' But our experience, my fellow citizer proves the beneficial effects of these societii The appearance of our country has greatly ir proved since their first institution. This r. mark is supported by the testimony of almo' every traveller. And they who have constan ly attended our cattle shows, assert that at c ery recent exhibition the stock offered has €■ celled that which was offered at the precedii one ; that the young cattle have uniformly su j'- passed the old; and that the improvement h, ■ been plainly visible, and by no means trifling degree. Will any one say that this effect m be attributed to some other cause ? Let hii then point out that cause, and by comparing with the one to which I refer it, demonstrate i superior efficacy. . Not to our own experience only would I aij'il peal. That of England fully and powerfulU'! corroborates ours. In that country, Agricu tural Societies have been long established ; an since that establishment- -I repeat now the r< mark of accurate and critical observers — th art of husbandry has been constantly advancing and to them this advancement has been genei ally attributed. No example or testimony ca be more respectable than that of English hu' bandmen who cultivate their own farms. The live in that happy medium between luxury an U NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 28,0 1, erty which gives full scope to the exer- of the judgment, and summons all the fac- es of the mind to active and constant excr- n that country, too, Ag^riculture is not only cticed as an art, but it is also studied as a •nee. The farmer, as well as the clergyman physician, has his appropriate library- He as knowledge by reading in the closet, as II as by observation in the liekl. The first imist of the age — he to whom Bonaparte gned the palm of excellence — has, at the luest of the Board of Agriculture, devoted ch of his time to making experiments calcu- id to render the science of which he is mas- subservient to that which it is their official y to encourage. The experiments were de- iCd in lectures delivered before the Board, ese lectures have been published in a book, ey have been read throughout Europe and lerica ; and have, by intelligent Agricultu- s, been pronounced liighly useful and instruc- e. That they are the production of a man b is not a farmer, and that they have been nted and published, are not supposed to be curastances which ought to render them un- rthy of attention. The prejudice against book-farming, as it is led — but to use a more correct expression, ; prejudice against consulting and regarding 1 experience of others — exists no where but ong the farmers of this country. If we ( ce it to its origin we shall find that our an- ( tors deserve less censure for imbibing it, ( in the present generation for submitting to its i luence. When our country was settled, the t 1 was rich from the decomposition of all the 1 jetables which for ages had grown and de- < ed upon its surface. It required no skill to 4 ain from this soil an abundant harvest. Hard J 1 constant labor only was requisite ; aniJ ■ ength of sinews was of course more highly J zed by the farmer than experience and sa- j city which could profit him nothing. That J the agricultural books then existing in our ! iguage, were adapted to a different climate ; d to a country where the soil had long been ; 'jjected to the yearly exactions of the hus- uJman, rendered them entirely inapplicable d useless here. When consulted and foUow- , as they doubtless sometimes were, by emi- ;ii)ts from the milder climate and exhausted :ldi of England, thej led astray those who had en accustomed to confide in them. The well lucated, intelligent and systematic farmer was und to succeed no better than he who was ig- r.mt but industrious. Hence arose an opinion at all books on the subject of husbandry were u only useless but injurious ; that agriculture uld derive no aid from science ; that any per- n who was able to labor, but unfit for every her profession, was yet lit to be a farmer. nd what effect could such opinions, long and r.i rally entertained, produce, but the deep LCiadation of a profession, which, as it is the r;t in usefulness, ought to be held highest in on or ? The circumstances which gave rise to the rejudice and opinions I have mentioned exist 0 longer. Our good soils have, by constant jlture, been exhausted of those properties •hich render them fertile. Nature failing, art mst here, as well as in England, be pressed in- 3 our service. The rules and precepts of art must be ascertained by experience and observa- tion ; but that they may be extensively useful, fliey must be published, and by (his means be preserved and placed within the reach of all. Will any farmer disdain to consult these books? Will any say that in this country the art of hus- bandry has already reached perfection ? Will any say that he is too wise to profit from the recorded experience of others? This in ctVccl, is the language of those who proscribe the pe- rusal of Agricultural publications; and as it is one of the objects of .\gricultural Societies to obtain materials for such publications, this, in effect, is the language of those who deny the usefulness of Agricultural Societies. Believing that these Societies, could they re- ceive sufficient patronage to enable them to produce their full eflcct, would be highly ben- eficial to the country — would conduce to the improvement of husbandry, and add respecta- bility to the profession of farmers, I have en- deavored to refute the principal objections which have been raised against them. These objections have lately been urged with increas- ed zeal and with pernicious elTect. They have deprived our country societies of the public patronage. I cannot but hope that hereafter a different sentiment will prevail — that our intel- ligent farmers, discarding unfounded jealousy, will, by all the means in their power, foster in- stitutions which reason, our own experience, and the experience of otliers concur in pro- nouncing eminently useful. ( To be concluded in our next.) From the Albany Plough Boy. Mr. SouTniviCK — In our neighborhood, we have made up a kind of a reading room, and take most of the Albany papers. Our attention has lately been a good deal turned to the fate of Agricultural Societies, as we notice some sharp shooting in the papers, on that subject. We have heard a report, as how the first Legislature under the new Constitution, will, in all probability, repeal the agricultural law. — Last evening we had a pretty full meeting, and considerable debating on the subject, something like what you call lobby members. Squire J s who you know talks a great deal, and sometimes he is quite eloquent, aB he was once a considerable of a lawyer, took an active part. Capt. S th was warmly op- posed to these societies. He finished the rem- nant of his glass, and said — " I am not ashamed to own I was at first, when the fever was up, a friend to these agricultural societies ; — but, says he, I've tried three times for a premium on swine, but they were given to rich farmers. My wife carried some excellent flannel at the last Fair, but, because it was not made of meri- no wool, the premium was given to Col. T 's wife, who you know is a rich man too. My eldest daughter carried a pair of blue knit stock- ings, and our Polly made a straw hat — but all in vain — we got no premiums ; and, so we are all now determined to pull down the so- cieties if we can ; for it is a confounded shame, that the state should spend ten thoiisa.n'd dol- lars a year, to give rich farmers in silver plate, and we poor farmers must be taxed and ruined, to pay the piper. It is all parade and nonsense be assured." Smoking my pipe quietly in a corner — so says I, now 1 sec Capt. S th, that the patri- otism of your family, all lies in your pocket. Squire J =, all this time, appeared ab- sorbed in thouttht, with his chin resting upon a well worn-round head of an old hickory staff, " Well, says h;-, gentlemen, I have been list- ening to your debate, on a subject of great im- portance. I thought as Capt. S th now does, when these Cattle Shows first began in this country — but I am not such a fool as to shut my , eyes and cars against truth — what I see I be- lieve, although il appears to me like magic, yet so is the fact. Now, let us, in imagination, strike a circle, for instance, of ten miles round this spot ; and then let us fairly compare the general state of the farms within the circle nov/, to what they were only four years ago — also our live stock — and our household manufac- tures ; the answer we all know — well, now hold on there ; and then let us look at the fences — clean barn yards — brushin^up on all sides — deny this if you can, Capt. S th — don't you ■ observe also, that our wives and daughters are brushing up, and are more cheerful than for- merly, when we could hardly iiring both ends to meet. For my part, I am a ^friend to the nev7 Constitution, a full blood buck tail, if you will have it so ; and for that reason, I shall be mor- tified, if the agricultural societies should be pulled down the first year of the new Constitu- tion. Besides, said the Squire, rising upon his staff, and brightening up into eloquence — be- sides, gentlemen, it will be as vain to attempt to arrest the progress of these agricultural so- cieties, as to check the descent of the Hudson River in a freshet. " The tide of public opinion will roll on — the light of science cannot be concealed — the good sense of the community will eventually predominate — the moment the state is liberated from its canal responsibilities the cause of agri- culture, Mr. H. says, must be sustained with renewed vigor and animation. So say I. En- ough has been done to insure that result — the seed are widely scattered, and sown on a luxu- riant soil — in the mean time they germinate and shoot forth in all their beauty and splendor. " Posterity will be blessed by its fruits — and will not fail to revert their eyes to the present day with astonishment, should the law be re- pealed " Your esteemed friend, PETER PLOUGHJOGGER, PAUPERISM. We have (says the Baltimore Chronicle) al- ready, and on more occasions than one, taken the liberty to remark that the only way to abol- ish pauperism, is to repeal all our poor laws altogether, to cut up the whole root and branch, without any sort of favor or affection ; that the malady resides in the law making provision for the poor, which when abolished will bring the evil along with it. Pauperism may be de- nominated vice, and indolence, put out to nurse, and is it any wonder that both should thrive un- der such liberal munificent patronage ? We make provision for paupers with as much leg- islative gravity, as if it were oar object to es- tablish Colonies all over the Continent, consist- ing of such meritorious individuals. The sin and iniquity of this may be traced to the law — a fact that has been proved, by statistical details., from the most unquestionable documents. zm NEW ENGLAND FARMER. THE FARMER. liOSTO.Y .—S.iTi'RD./li\ APRIL 5. 11323. Tlte t'armer^s and Gardenern Remembrancer. APRIL. Fenxe."!. — As soon as possible put your fences in thorough rejnilr. Some farmers bav-c a knack ! nt teaching their cattle to jump over or shove ! down fences. They begin witli a «( ak fence, three rails high perhaps, or thereabouts. As soon as their cattle have learnt to leap over or throw down such a fence they add another rail, and now and then a prop or a stake, which the atiimals soon learn to " make nothing of."' The farmer then does what he ought to have done • in the first instance, makes a good/ic-rufi fence. | But his cattle, having by this time found out j their own strength and agility, are not to be stop- ped by such trifles, and if they do not become quite so nimble as the " cow that leaped over the moon," and as hard to confine as Baron Trenck, they take all occa^ns to show how badly they nere brought up, and their owner looses prop- erty as well as credit by his neglect of early discipline. E.4RLV PoTATOF.s. — The best time to plant po- tatoes for winter's use, feeding stock, &.c. is said to be about the latter end of May, or the first of .'une ; but it would be good economy, generally speaking, to plant an early sort on early ground to feed your hogs, before your Indian corn is ripe. You may thus, perhaps, get tiie start of your neighbors, and bring your pigs to a better because an earlier market. Plant the earliest sort for this purpose ; some say the English Whites (as they are called) are best, and will do to dig in July. Every farmer, no doubt, diinks he knows how to plant potatoes without our advice. However, it can do him no harm to attend to what we have to say upon the sub- ject, and if he pleases he may take his own way afterwards in spite of us. As good and as expeditious a way as any for putting the seed into the ground is as follows : *' After the ground is prepared, by ploughing and harrowing, cut furrows with the horse plough, forty inches apart ; drop the sets in the I'urrows ; then pass the plough along the back of each furrow, which will throw the earth of both furrows upon the sets ; and afterwards lev- el the ground with the back of a harrow, or with a harrow that has short tines if you will; but it is of no great consequence whether it be levelled at all. Another method of planting if, to plough the ground plain, keeping the fur- rows straight and regular, and drop sets in eve- ry third or fourth furrow.'"* A writer in the American Farmer, vol. i, p. 151, recommends a similar process in plnnting, but prefers havmg the rows but three feet, and the seeds containmg one eye, or two at the most, eight inches apart, in the rows, and each cutting or seed should weigh about the third of an ounce avoirdupois. At this rate an acre will require about 15 bushels of seed. If the ground be rich enough without manure, the furrow for the row need not be more than four inches deep, otherwise it ought te be six. In dry sandy lan(l put the si'cd under the manure; if otherwise, put it on the top. With regard to the choice of seed potatoes, their size, i.c. the following remarks appear to * Dcine'a N. E. Farojer, p. 347 ; Wells & Lilly's «d. US correct. "• Some economists begin by paring the potatoe, and planting only the skins; others less saving, cut the potatoes into slices, leaving a single eye to each slice ; and a third class, al- most as provident as the other two, are careful to pick out the dwarl's, and reasonable enough to ex])ect a progeny of giants. These practices cannot be too much censured, or too soon aban- doned, because directly opposed both by reason and experience. In other cases, we take great pains, and sometimes incur great expense, to obtain the best seed. In the cultivation of wheat we reject all small, premature, worm eaten, or otherwise imperfect grains ; in preparing for a crop of Indian corn, we select the best ears, and even strip from these the small or ill-shaped grains at the end of the cob; so also in planting beets, carrots, parsnips and turnips, the largest and finest are selected for seed. The reason of all this is obvious. Plants, like animals, are rendered most perfect, by selectmg the finest individuals of the species from which to breed Away, then, with such miserable economy, and instead of planting skin'^, or slices, or dwarfs, take for seed the best and largest potatoes ; those having in themselves the most aliment for the young plants ; place them in your furrows ten or twelve inches apart, and cover them carefully with earth."* The opinions of the writer above, quoted co incide with facts as developed by many experi ments which we have heard or read of, parti- cularly with those made by a gentleman of Ryegnte, V't. and detailed in the New England P'armer, No. 7, p. 53. By these it appeared that " large potatoes are much better for seed than small ones, and that it is better to cut them than to plant them whole," and that the middle parts of potatoes used for seed will produce bet- ter crops, other things being equal, than the ends. P^rom an experiment made by a farmer in the employ of the Hon. Josiah Q.uincy, the particu- lars of which are given in the Mass. Agricul- tural Repository, vol. v, p. 64, it appears that the product of certain rows, planted with ichole potatoes, exceeded an equal extent of adjoining rows, planted with cut potatoes more than one third. This is very different from the result of the experiments of the gentleman who sent us the communication from Ryegate, above refer- red to. We are not able to conjecture what could be the cause of this difference; but we should apprehend that seme disadvantage might accrue from cutting potatoes in consequence of the juice of the potatoe being wasted through the wounds. Mr. M'Mahon advises to cut the potatoes " a week before planting, in order that the wounds should have time to form a dry crust, for if planted at this season immediately after being cut, they would imbibe too much mois- ture, many of them rot, and the rest be greatly weakened thereby." The Farmer's Assistant says that wetting seed potatoes, and then rolling them in Plaister of Paris, immediately before planting, greatly assists the crop. It should seem by some experiments detailed in the Pennsylvania Farmer, and quoted in the FarnierV Manual, page 55, that large potatoes cut into sets or pieces, with two eyes each, pro- duce more when set at nine inches distance iu the rows (being planted according to the dril' method) than at six or twelve inches distance. Coarse manure answers best for potatoes.— Fallen leaves taken from the woods are reconi mended by a correspondent ot the Bath Societ in England. This kind of manure, says th writer, causes potatoes to be much more meal and of a finer flavor than when they are pre duced by the application of ashes or dung.- There are many farms where rotten leaves, an the soil which is made by their decay, may be ol tained in great quantities, and at a very triflii; expense. Dry straw, damaged hay, &,c. .iij said to be fully equal for potatoes to the betji rotted dung. Indeed, on some accounts, stra»l' hay, kc. are to be preferred as they give pota ■ toes of the best quality, and equal in quantit to rotten manure from the dunghill. Dry straw cut with a machine, would probably be equa to any manure for potatoe.s. A Liritish writer gives the following rules rel " ative to the management of seed potatoes, &c ^, which we think worthy of being submitted ti '„ our practical farmers. 1. "The jwtatoes fO' seed should be kept in a separate pit, whicll.j should never be opened, until the time whei the potatoes are to be cut into sets : for if veg etaiion commences any time before the pota toes are to be planted, it is apt to occasion Ih curl. 2. The sets should be placed .ibout a foo separate from each other. 3. Many crops ari spoiled from being planted too deep in th' ground. This ought carefully to be avoided." We do not insist upon the farmer's plantin; his potatoes in the drill method, especially i his land be rough, stony, or hard to cultivate In such case the old mode of planting in bill IS probably preferable. But in a rich, mellov soil, the drill method is undoubtedly best. Di ^ De.me observed as follows — " One of my neigh 'tors planted in his garden, drills and rows c hills alternately of equal length, and equalf manured ; when he dug them he found th< [,1 drill rows produced twice as much as the othei It is not more labor to lay the dung in drills than in hills ; and the labor of hoeing is not m creased. t 51 * System? of Husbandry in Scotland, vol. i, p. 428'. t Deane's N. E. Farmer, p. 226 ; Wells & Lilly's ed t Treatise on Agriculture, first published iu the Al- bauy Argus. MR. OSBORN'S POEMS. We have this day published the proposals of Mr Selleck Osborn, for printing, by subscription, a Collec- tion of Poems. We have seen some specimens of thai gentleman's poetry which induce us to entertain a fa- vorable opinion ofhis powers as a poet. What we have perused have appeared from time to time in newspa- pers, and W'j were pleased with them. We considered them as correct, moral, aud sentimental effusions, ex- hibiting the inspiration of the genuine Bard, divested of that wilJucss and eccentricity which characterize the productions of many modern British lyrists, who too frequently in search of sublimity bid adieu to com- mon sense, aud resemble more " A wild goose lost in hazy weather," than a genuine bird of Jove, soaring to meet the sum iu the midst of the Empyrean. It is true we have heretolbrc been pitted against Mr. Osborn in political contests, but we have long since laid down the weapons of our warfare; and besides, we hojpe we resemble — so far as candor is concerned— the critic mentioned by Pope, " Who to a friend his faults can freely show, And gladly praise the merits of a foe." We wish Mr. Osborn success, and hope the American public will t.ike this opportunity to -wipe away a staud- in? theme of reproach from foreigaers, thait nobody reads or buys aa American book. NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 287 FARMER SUMMARY OF NEWS. C -I tl '> FROM GIBRALTAR. hi; brig Jew, Capt. Dcaiie, arrived iu this City on SiiJay last, and bruoght Gibraltar papers to the !li of February. By these it appears that the Span- ils are preparing; to breast the shock of battle, with- exliibitiug any symptoms of dismay. The Cortes 'p voted to raise 30,000 additional troops, increasing niy to 124,579 men, and have taken measures to naval armament adequate to the defence of the Gen. Mina is cnofirmed in the command of the of Catalonia, Gen. Ballasteros is appointed to uiies of Arragon and Navarre ; an army of rc- ? :■ i< to be assembled near Madrid to be commanded bC Hint Abisbal. Thanks were voted to Gen. Mina a' iii^ army by the Cortes, for having obtained com- T 1.! of the forts of Urgel, which were surrendered on 1 of February. On the 20th Jan. Brig. Gen. : hurned to the ground Piteus, and all the coun- k i...uses within one league of it, in consequence of inhabitants being inimical to the Constitutional lera. Jen. Donnell, Commander in Chief of the King's nies in Navarre and Biscay, has issued a proclama- 1 to his troops, which is full of pomposity. In this, says that "• The tyrannic sway of incredulity and ellion is forever at an end. The worthy Head of august dynasty of the Bourbons has sent forth n Paris, the thunderbolt which is to hurl it down in lin, where, as a last asylum, some of her unnatural 3 had attempted to entlirone it," &c. Sic. LATEST FROM EUROPE. apt. Curtis, from London, arrived in Boston on the ning of the 2d inst. and brought papers to the 24th TUary. These have a somewhat more pacific aspect a the last preceding accounts. It is now said that departure of the Duke d'Angouleme, the Comman- in Chief of the French armies, destined for the inva- i of Spain, has been deferred till the end of March. s, however, may be merely to avoid a winter's cara- pi. The merchants of Havre have prepared a peti- for peace. According to the Courier, G. Britain determined on a " digniiied neutrality." Public lion, however, cliat is the opinion of the grea/er par/ he population throughout Europe, is decidedly op- :d to a war with Spain. Should France undertake menaced crusade against the liberties of that coun- her troops will be accompanied with the execra- s of every friend to humanity throughout the ciril- l world ; and every victory (should they obtain any) uld be the source and signal of bitter lamentation to ry human being who is not an enemy to the human Mtest from Canton. — Capt. Ashly, from Canton, brought papers and advices to the 1st December, appears by them, that the first account of the ex- t of the great calamity of fire experienced there, !, as not unusual, much exaggerated. It had, how- r, been ascertained that 4,500 houses, ic. had been troyed. The Chinese government had adopted raeas- 3 for the relief of the suflcrers, and for rebuilding desolate suburbs. • Tremendous Snow Slorm .'" — Almost every paper, f-a-days, furnishes us with something sublime under i head. It has not, however, been quite equal to an line avalanche ; and we have heard of no city, town tillage having been buried for quite so long a time lonah remained in the bosom of the deep. It is true t on Sunday night and Monday morning last, Km- or Boreas mustered his troops, " the light militia of lower sky," and these, under the command of Gen. k Frost, a very blustering character, effected a tern- ary non-intercouse betwean town and country ; and n undertook to barricade the doors of many peacea- inhabitants of the good city of Boston. But Gen. ishine and Com. Soulhwind have attacked the airy ;es of the tyrant of the north, and he is now in full •eat towards his head quarters at the north pole. 'harles Vig.voles, Civil and Topographical En- eer, has published in N. York, a work entitled, )b3ervations upon the Floridas." The National zette says, " this work contains more abundant, _ lous, aod well digested information concerning the Fridas thsyi aay other extant," Lord Byron, says the Charleston Courier, is ceming to this country. We are sorry for it. He wiil not be pleased with the United States. Neither their climate nor their manners are sensualized, as in Italy. He will find that hi? mind has travelled in advance of his per- son, and witliered the flowers that he hopes for in his path. He will behold the pious, recoiling from apos- tate genius — the beautiful, shuddering at the profatiei- of innocence — and the virtuous republican, sneering at the vices of peerage. Public Dinner. — A public dinner was given on the '20th ult. to Joseph Shearer, Esq. of Pittsfield, Mass. by a number of gentlemen of that town, " as a token of their gratitude for his many acts of munificence to the town." Fires. — On the 20th ult. the Dye House, belonging to the PittsKeld Woollen Manufacturing Company, was destroyed by fire, with most of its contents. Loss esti- mated at $2000. The origin of the fire cannot be ac- counted for. The Woollen Factory at Hempstead Harbor, L. I. was totally destroyed by fire on the 25th ult. with all the out buildings, stock and machinery. The loss of property is estimated at about $15,000. Messrs. Bliss & White, of New York, have in press a new American novel, entitled '^ Tke JVilderness., or Braddock\ Times.'''' Those who are acquainted with its author entertain sanguine expectations of its suc- cess. We understand (says the Commercial Advertiser) that this novel, in which the immortal Washington is introduced in the character of an unsuccessful lorer.i will be published iu about ten days. Capt. C. G. Ridgely has presented to the University of Maryland for the Museum, a collection of Minerals formed during his late visit to S. America, and which includes several of the most interesting productions of Peru and Chili, principally from tlieir gold and silver mines. Capt. R. has also presented, with other gen- eral curiosities, a couple of specimens of Earthen Ware, found near the tombs of the Incas, which shew that considerable skill in the art of Pottery existed among the ancient Peruvians. — Bait. American. NEW GAJIDEN SEEDS. FOR sale, by VIJ). MURDOCK, No. 1 J, Market Square, a grf at variety of English and American (JARUr.N SELLS, of the last years growth ; consist- ing of early Frame, Hotspur and Charllon Pease ; early and late Cabbage ; early and late Cauliflower ; Sweet -Marjoram, Thyme, &c. with every other Seed suitable for a Kitchen Garden, ^/io, 40 lbs. Mangel W urizel or Scarcity — 100 lbs. Ruta Baga or Swedish Turnip — a quantity of Armack or Carrot. March 29. — 6w SAFFOiRDS STRAW CUTTER. THE utility of culling Hay, Straw, and other sub- stances for feeding cattle, is now so universally acknowledged that any remarks on the subject must be deemed superfluous. The following Certificate will therefore be conclusive of the merits of the above men- tioned Machine. Boston, March 22, 1023. We, the subscribers, have in operation a Straw Cutting Machine invented and exhibited in this city by Noah Safford, and we do not hesitate to say that in our opinion it exceeds any other we have ever seen, for cheapness, simplicity, despatch and durability. Stephkn Hartwell, Spcrb & Holmes. Hezekiah Eart,, Andrew Slater. 0:5= The above mentioned Machines may be had of J. R. NEWELL, at the Agricultural Establishment, No. 20, Merchant's Row, Boston. Price $15. PROPOSALS, FOR PUBLISHING BY SCBSCRIFTION A COLLECTION OF MORAL, SENTI.MENTAL AND SATIRICAL. BY SELLECK OSBORN. THE author of the articles which are to compose this volume, never wrote with a view to fame or profit ; he merely obeyed the impulse of th^moment. Of those which were sent to the press he seldom retain- ed copies ; and they were usually forgotten by him, until recalled to his mind by public prints, which have often gratified him by flattering notice, but which have also frequently annoyed him by mutilations which were extremely mortifying. This last circumstance (besides private solicitations and other motives) has induced him to collect, with considerable pains, his scattered effusions, and to add some unpublished pieces ; which altogether will have at least the merit of being genu- ine ; and perhaps that of inculcating to the best of the author's capacity, good principles and amiable senti- ments— excluding all matters relative to party politics. Disinterestedness is not pretended : It is confessed that a liberal patronage would be very acceptable, on various accounts. The author confides in the tried zeal of his friends throughout the Union, for the pro- motion of his interest in this case. The volume will be neatly printed, in a duodecimo form of 200 pages, on handsome paper, with type en- tirely new, and well bound in boards, at one dollar, payable on delivery. A commission of 12 per cent will be allowed to agents on all returns made. Gentlemen holding subscription papers will please return them by the first of June next, or as soon as rea- sonable efforts have been made to obtain subscribers. Editors of newspapers will oblige the author by re- publishing or noticing these proposals, and receiving subscriptions. Communications to be addressed to the author at Merchants' Hall, Bostort, Mass. April 5 PRICES OF COUNTRY PRODUCE, &c. [Revised and corrected every Friday.] ASHES, pot, 1st qual. . . . pearl do BEANS, white, BEEF, mess, 200 cwt. . . . cargo. No. 1 " No. 2 BUTTER, inspect. 1st qual. . " 2d qual. . small kegs, family, CHEESE, new milic .... FLAX FLAX SEED FLOUR, Baltimore, superfine, Genessee .... Rye, best .... GR.UN, Rye Corn Barley Oats HOGS' LARD, 1st sort . . HOPS, No. 1, LIME, OIL, Linseed, American PLAISTER PARIS .... PORK, Navy Mess .... Bone Middlings . . . Cargo, No. 1, ... Cargo, No. 2, . . . SEEDS, Herd's qrass . . • Clover WOOL, Merino, full blood, washed do. do. unwashed do. 3-4 washed do. 1-2 do. Native .... do. Pulled, Lamb's, 1st sort do. Spinning, 1st sort PROVISION MARKET. BEEF, best pieces .... PORK, fresh VEAL MUTTON POULTRY, BUTTER, keg & tub ... lump, best . ■ . EGGS, MEAL, Rye, Indian, POTATOES, CIDER, liquor, ..... HAY, fcest. FROM TO D. C. D. C. ton. 143 00 147 00 155 00 157 50 bush 1 00 1 xo bbl. 9 00 9 50 8 00 8 50 6 50 7 00 lb. 14 15 12 13 15 1« "v 8 a 9 bush 85 90 bbl. 7 50 7 62 7 50 7 7& 4 50 5 00 bush 80 8'J Gb 68 03 63 43 45 lb. 9 10 12 cask 1 25 1 50 gal. 65 70 ton. 3 00 3 25 bbl. 12 00 12 50 14 00 14 5(V 12 00 12 50 11 00 11 50 bush 2 25 2 50 lb. «.' 9 55 65^ 45 47 45 47 40 45 35 40 55 60 47 50 lb. 8 1« 6 9 6 10 5 7 1 12 15 16 16 18 doz. li: 14 bush 85 90 iiO 85 3' bbl. 1 50 •on- 20 CO V 24 CO, 28a i\EW ENGLAND FARMER. CONTENTED FARMER. Give me the lot erf" one who moves Contented iu a liumble sphere, Who gains respect from all he loves, And dreads no lurking envy near. For such a man each rolling year, Brings round a double share of joy ; His mind, of stormy passions clear, Befits his innocent employ. Though fortune smiles upon a throne. Contentment smiles on liim alone. He cultivates his native soil, In plain but comely dress attir'd ; The social pipe beguiles that toil Which has with strength his limbs inspired. Great Cincinnatus oft retir'd, To live on his paternal field, (When war's last trumpet sound cxpir'd) And felt more joy than victories yield. A little spot was all his gain — A People's love his large domain. [Providence Paper. AURORA BOREALIS, OR NORTHERN LIGHT. In the north-eastern parts of Siberia, the northern lights are observed to begin with sin- gle bright pillars, rising in the north, and al- most at the same time in the north-east, which gradually increasing comprehend a large space of the heavens, rush about from placeto place with incredible velocity, and finally almost cover the whole sky iip to the zenith, and produce an appearance as if a vast tent was expanded in the heavens, glittering with gold, rubies and sapphire. A more beautiful spectacle cannot be imagined ; but whoever should see such a northern light for the first time, could not be- hold it without terror. For however fine the illumination may be, it is attended with such a hissing, crackling, and rushing noise through the air, as if the largest fire works were playing ofi". The hunters who pursue the white foxes on the Icy sea are often overtaken in their course by these northern lights. Their dogs are then so much frightened that they will not move, but lie obstinately on the ground till the noise has passed. Similar lights, called aurorce australes, have been observed in the southern hemisphere. — They differ, however, from those in the north, in being always of a whitish color, whereas those ot our hemisphere assume various hues, but are generally of a fiery or purple color. In the Shetland Isles, these lights are called the mcrnj dancers, and serve to enliven the long winter nights. There they often cover the whole hemisphere, and make a very brilliant appearance. Their motions are then very rapid, and their forms very various. They break out in places where nonu were seen before, skim- ming briskly along the heavens, and are sud- denly extinguished, leaving behind them a uni- form dusky track. This is again illuminated in the same manner, and as suddenly left a dull bhmk. la certain nights, they assume the ap- pearance of vast column.s, on one side of the deepest yellow, on the other declining away till It becomes undistinguished from the sky. They have generally a strong tremulous motion Iroin the end, which continues till the whole vanishes. In a word, we, who only see the ex- tremities of these northern phenomena, have but a lamt idea ol their grandeur, or their motions. According to the state ot the atmosphere, they differ in color ; they often put on that of blood, and make an awful appearance. The periods of the appearance of these north- ern lights are very variable. In some years they occur frequently, and in others are more rare ; and it has been observed that they are most common about the time of the equinoxes. There have been many speculations and con- jectures respecting the cause of the Aurora Borealis. It is now generally supposed that northern lights as well as lerial meteors are caused by that universal and all powerful agent electricity. A writer in the Encyclopedia Brit- tannica gives the following solution of the man- ner in which he supposes the electric fluid ope- rates to produce these and other phenomena. He assumes three axioms, viz: that all electric bodies, when considerably heated, become con- ductors of electricity ; that, non-electrics, when subjected to violent degrees of cold, become electric ; and that cold increases the electric poHcrs of such substances as are already elec- tric. From these premises he proceeds to de- duce the causes of the aurora borealis as foL lows : — " The air all round the globe at a certain height above its surface, is found to be exceed- ingly cold, and as far as experiments have yet determined, exceedingly electric also. The in- ferior parts of the atmosphere between the tro- pics^ are violently heated during the day time by the reflection of the sun's rays from the earth. Such air will therefore be a kind of conductor, and much more readily part with its electricity to the clouds and vapors floating in it, than the colder air towards the north and south poles. Hence the prodigious appearances of electricity in these regions, shewing themselves io thunder and other tempests of the most terrible kind. In the temperate and frigid zones, the inferior parts of the atmosphere never being so strongly heated, do not part with their electricity so ea- sily as in the torrid zone, and consequently do not require such recruits from the upper re- gions ; but notwithstanding the difference of heat oliserved in different parts of the earth near the surface, it is very probable that at con- siderable heights, the degrees of cold are nearly equal all round it. Were there a like equality in the heat of the under part, there could never be any considerable loss of equilibrium in the electricity of the atmosphere ; but as the hot air of the torrid zone is perpetually bringing down vast quantities of electric matter from the cold air that lies directly above it ; and as the inferior parts of the atmosphere lying toward the north and south poles do not conduct in any great degree ; it thence follows that the upper parts of the atmosphere, lying over the torrid zone will continually require a supply from the northern and southern regions. This easily shows the necessity ol' an electric current in the upper parts of the atmosphere from each pole towards the equator ; and thus we are also furnished with a reason why the aurora borealis appears more frequently in winter than in sum- mer ; namely, Lecaiise at that time the electric power of the inferior atmosphere is greater on account of the cold than in summer; and con- sequently the abundant electricity of the upper regions must go almost wholly off to the equa- torial parts, it being impossible for it to get down to the earth. Mr. Kirwan supposes that the rarefaction the atmosphere in the polar regions procee from the northern and southern lights, and the lights are produced by a combustion of infla mable air, which is kindled by electricity. Tl inflammable air is generated, particularly I tween the tropics, by many natural operatioi such as the putrefaction of animal and vegetal substances, volcanoes, &c. and being lighter th any other, occupies of course the highest i gions of the atmosphere. Mr. Kirwan farth adds, that after the appearance of an aurc borealis, the barometer generally falls, and commonly followed by high winds, proceed! from the south ; all which facts strongly pro a rarefaction in the northern regions. It is observed by Mr. Winn (Phil. Trans, v 73.) that the appearance of an aurora borea IS a certain sign of a hard gale of wind fri the south or south west. This occurred wi out fail, in twenty-three instances ; and thinks that the splendor of the northern lig will enable the observer to form some judgmi concerning the ensuing tempest. If the aun is bright, the gale will conae on within twen four hours, but will be of short duration ; if I light is faint and dull, the gale will be less v leut, and longer in coming on, but will 1 longer. Dr. Franklin in some of his philosophical says accounts for the aurora borealis on pric pies of electricity. He premises the follow electric phenomena. 1. That all new fal snow has much positive electricity standing its surface. 2. That about twelve degrees latitude round the poles are covered will crust of eternal ice, which is impervious to electric fluid. 3. That the dense part of atmosphere rises but a few miles high, and 1 in the rarer parts of it the electric fluid ■ pass to almost any distance. Hence he sup ses there must be a great accumulation of p itive electric matter on the fresh fallen snow the polar regions; which, not being able top through the crust of ice into the earth, m rise into the thin air of the upper parts of ( atmosphere, which will the least resist its p sage; and passing towards the equator desce again into the dense atmosphere, and ther into the earth in silent and invisible streai This theory of Dr. Franklin is essentially t same with that of the writer in the Encycloj dia Brittannica above quoted. (to be continued.) Admiral Lord Howe, when a captain, fl once hastily awakened in the middle of t night by the lieutenant of the watch, who formed him, with great agitation, that the sh was on fire near the magazine. " If that the case" said he, rising leisurely to put on 1 clothes, " we shall soon hear another report the matter." The lieutenant flew back to ti scene of danger, and almost instantly returnio exclaimed, " You need not, sir, be afraid, tl fire is extinguished." " Afraid !" exclaimi Howe, " what do you mean by that sir? 1 ne er was afraid in my life ;" and looking the lie tenant full in the face, he added, " Pray, ho does a man/ee/, sir, when he is afraid? I net not ask how he looks.'''' OCr^- E. FARMER, published every Saturday, $3 per ann. payable at the end of the year, or |2,50, paid iu advauce. FUIJI.ISIIKD KY THOMAS W. SHEI'ARD, KOfJKRS' BUILDINGS, CONGRESS STREET, (EOUR'iH DOOIl FRO.M STA'i !■: S'lKEET.) \ 01,. I. BOSTON, SATURDAY, APRIL 12, 1823. No. 37. PREMIUMS Ifl'cred by the Essex Jlgricultitral Society, in 18-'.5. The Committee of the Trustees appointed to propose objects for premiums, adverting to the iriijinal design of the institution — the improve- iii'iit of the general husbandry of the county — liive thought it advisable, at" this time, to de- lait materially from what seems to have been I heading principle in all the Agricultural .So- iities of the country — that of olTering prenii- 1111^ chiefly for certain specific articles of hus- bandry, instead of the combined improvements af entire larms. Since the formation of the Essex Society, ipecific premiums have produced valuable ''f- "ects ; by demonstrating, that with high manHr- ing, and good culture, some former usual crops may be doubled, trebled, and even quadrupifd. But the important question is — not what smill lots in or near market towns, and abundantly supplied with manures, may be made to yield ; but how the productive powers offai-ms can be essentially increased : and this can be effected mly by a better management in all articles ot tjusbandry. With this in view, the Committee propose to extend the encouragement hereto- :ore given for general improvements ; and offer the following premiums. I.— MANAGEMENT OF A FAHM. For the management of a farm, in itj tillage, nowing, orcharding and pasturage : the quanti- y of land appropriated to each — their tultiva- ion — the means and the manner of making, in- reasing, preserving and applying manures — heir quantities — the respective crops and pro- lucts — the quantity and management of the Mve .tock — and the quantity of labor employed—to )e detailed. 'er the be$t .... |3(: "or the second best ... 25 ^or the third best - - - - 20 "or the fourth best ... 15 II.— DAIRY STOCK-SOILING. For experiments in feeding milch cows on jreen crops, from the middle of June to he niddle of October, by supplying them to tue full with those crops, in their stables, without turning them to pasture. Feeding cattle in this manner is called soiling. For the best, . . - For the second best, For the third best, ... The whole process to be detailed. REMARKS. The green crops may be rye (sown the pre- ceding year) oats, barley, millet, Indian corn. clover and various grasses. Any sorts of grair, sown to produce fodder for soiling, after bemir harrowed in, should be rolled, to make the sur face and the ground smooth for mowing. The clover and upland meadow grounds, destmed for soiling, will be better for rollmg, with ?. heavy roller, to make a smooth bottom, with- out which the mowing cannot be close ; and it not close shaven, the thickest part of the grass will remain uncut. If the soil be rich and the surface smooth, thi grass may be cut when only three or four in $20 15 10 Such ground well set with the grasses which produce what is known among ns as English hay, and inclined to moisture, may in this man- ner be mown three or four times in a season. The cutting of the rye, oats, barley and millet should commence as soon as they will yield a good swarth, and be finished before they have passed the flowering state. If mown befora they flower, they will shoot again; and if the growth be rich, yield second crops. Indian corn will be well grown for soiling bv the loth or 15th of July; and will continue green, and in full sap until the last of August. And in order to continue a supply of this rich green food — to which probably no other voge- tsbjc of our country is equal, especially for milch cows — pieces of land may be planted in succession, so that some may be in full sap to the last of September, when, in Essex, frosts usually strike the blades, and greatly lessen their value. If there be a piece of rich mowing land in the farm, its second or third crop will furnish green fodder to the middle or last of October. Perhaps late sown oats, hardier plants than In- dian corn, may supply the place of grass. Pump- kins, also, during this month and the next, will furnish a most valuable food. All the sorts of fodder above mentioned, like the young grasses of the spring, naturally dis- pose cattle to a degree of looseness, though probably without injuring them. But if any of them operate to an excess, a little good hay will furnish a useful corrective. After November, potatoes, mangel vvurtzel and carrots, added plentifully to their dry fod- der, even if this be only barley, or oat straw, or wet or low ground meadow hay, will doubt- less keep cows in milch till within a few weeks of their calving.* Cows, durirrg the time of Ibeir going dry, and other stock at all times, fully supplied with ruta baga, or common tur- nips, with the same poor dry fodder, may be kept in high condition. In England, cattle in- tended for beef are often fattened on wheat straw and turnips, giving of the latter as many as they will eat. They commence feeding in this manner in autumn, and by the spring the cattle are fat for the market. The cattle thus fattened, and in so short a time, are of moder- ate sizes. Rye, oats, barley and millet, when destined for soiling, should be sown twice as thick as when intended to ripen their seeds. In like manner, Indian corn may be planted in contin ued rows only so far apart as to admit a small |jlough in its culture, and with the plants only four or five inches apart in the rows. The surface of the ground should be smooth in the 'dws, so as to admit of mowing the corn. The farmer who shall pasture some of his ••ows, and soil the others, will add to the value * An observing farmer, long: ago expressed to me thf oitiiiion, that cows should go dry livt or six weeks be- Ibrc calving, to give tiinefor the milk vessels to be dis- tended, and tlv bag enlarged ; in the language of larmers, for the springing of the bag. It was his opin- _ - . ion that tht greatc r in rease of milk after calving, ^es high, and will then yield a good swarth. I would amply compensate the loss of going dry so long. of the experiment, by keeping their milch separate, and noting their relative quantities from cows of equal goodness, and the quantity and quality of the butter made from each set. III.— THE DAIRY. For the greatest quantity of good butter, in proportion to the number of cows producing it, (not fewer th;m four) made on any farm, from the 20lh of May to the 20th of November, twen- ty-six weeks, and the quantity of butter aver- aging not less than seven pounds per week for each cow, - - - g20 Kor the second greatest, - - - 15 For the third greatest, ... ]y The kicids of food and the management of it to be detailed. REMARKS. The object of Agricultural institution.^, as al- ready observed, is impi-eveinent ; and in Essex, none seems to be more wanted than in milch cows. If the society were to continue their premiums, during any length of time, merely for the greatest quantity of butter, they would not enforce any improvement in the quality of those animals. Seven pounds of butter a week, for each cow, is less than half what the Oakes cow of Danvers produced, in the same time. The seven pounds a week, therefore, are very at- tainable by every farmer who will improve his breed of coxrs, and feed them to the full with jui- cy and highly nourishing food. The Commit- tee trust they do not entertain a groundless hope, that the premiums here offered will have claimants •, and that in some future years, the Trustees will be justified in contining these premiums to cows yielding ten, twelve, and fourteen pounds of butter a week, for twenty six weeks in the year. IV.— TURNING IN GREEN CROPS AS A MANURE. For the best experiment of turning in green crops as a manure, on not less than one acre, - $15 For the second best, ... lO For the third best, .... 6 REMARKS. The claimants must give a particular account of their respective processes, and the results. The object aimed at is, to ascertain whether land can be manifestly improved by turning un- der green crops, and to what degree enriched. Each experimenter will follow his own judg- ment in his process ; but the following intima- tions may merit his attention. The turning in of green crops is a very an- cient, though not a very general practice. Its utility has lately been called in question. Hence the desire to bring it to the test of fair experi- ment. Take an acre of land, so far exhausted at the last crop as to render it inexpedient to intro- duce another without a good manuring. Plough it in the spring, and sow it with oats, barley, buck wheat, or millet — and not be sparing of the seed. When the crop sba.i be full grown, but still in blossom, plough it lu, and sow it again. When this second crop shall be full grown, [dough it in. 'I'he next year repeat this process — again pliughing in ;vvo crops; the last by the beguiuing ol October. It may 290 NEW ENGLAND PARMER. then be sowa with whiter r3c, to produce a crop of grnia at the next harvest — souing five or «ix pecks, because sown so h\te. — Or it may lie till the ensuing Miiy, and tlien be pliiiited with Indian corn. The product, compared witli the last of the same acre, prior to the com- mencement of the experiment, especially if a crop of the same kind, will show tin- value of the green crop ploughed in. ANOTHER MODE. The acre being diviiled lengthways into two equal ports, plough the whole uniformly in tht spring. Sow on one part two bushels ol oats or barley, or a bushel of buck-wheat, or three or four half pecks of millet : and harrow the whole acre alike, and so as duly to cover the seed which has been sown. When the crop has attained its full growth, but is still in blos- som, plough it in ; ploughing the yacant half acre at the same time, and to the same depth. Sow the first half acre again immedialcly, and harrow in the seed, harrowing the other half in the same manner. The next year repeat the same process. Then the whole acre may be «own with winter rye (3 pecks on each half;) or tl^e land may lie (as in the process first pro- posed) to be planted with Indian corn the ensu- ing spring. In the third year, the crop put in must stand to ripen. The produce of each half acre (both being sown or planted, and cultiva- ted iu the same manner) must be kept by itself, and accurately measured. The difference be- tween them will show the value of the green crops ploughed in. Every experimenter will perceive that no manure whatever is to be used — the crops sown, and the weeds ploughed under, excepted. Until ploughs constructed for the purpose of completely turning in green crops shall be intro- duced, it will be necessary to roll flat the green crop before ploughing, or it cannot be duly cov- ered. Perhaps a small roller, or what is called afoot, only of a large size, may be attached to the fore end of the plough beam, to press down the crop to the ground, and thus cause it to be efl'ectually covered. Such a roller, or foot, will serve as a gauge for the depth of the furrow in which the orop shall be buried. v.— CIDER. . For the bBst ciiier, the pure juice of the apple, which shall be made in the prtscut year, not less than tight barrels, - - - $10 For the second best - - - - 5 The greater part of the cider may be sold, if the owner please, only reserving one cask, of which a sample is to be produced at the So- ciety's public exhibition in 1824; with good evidence that the casks sold ivere equal to that reserved. If sold, the claimant will state when, ) er eminent breeder says, that " before Mr. •] kewelTs days, we had do criterion but size ; I thing would please but elephants and giants." , d " he declares that Bakewell enabled those ' 10 followed his ideas to produce two pounds < mutton, where only one was produced be- i e." The following were the points to 1 lich Bakewell specially attended : — " line i 'ms, small bones, and a true disposition to like ready fat: which indeed is inseparable Tm small bones, or rather fine bones and tine i -ms, or true symmetry of the parts." But BakewelPs prime object, in improving I. tie and sheep, was to render his animals I (St profitable in becfanA mutton. And he suc- i:ded in obtaining forms indicating i aad lay flesh and fat on the most valuable ,loinls--as was the fact— cm it be doubted th;il, by similar attention, the quantity and quality of the milk of our cows m.iy be increased and en- riched ? But to obtain this improvement, calves should be raised from such cows only ;is excel in those two particulars. II seems to be the best opinion, that of the diflerent breeds of live stock, those of the lar- gest size are not the most profitable. The breed of cattle, however, should be such as to produce oxen a single pair of which, at tlieir full growth, should have strenglh sufficient, on proper tillage land, with well formed ploughs, to opftn a furrow to the depth of five, or e"ven of six inches. As to the form of the diflerent kinds of live stock, an eminent naturalist and farmer in England has thus expressed his opin- ion ; — '• The more deep and capacious the chust, and the shorter and lower any animal is, rela- tive to its weight, the belter adapted it will be to live and fatten on little food, the more labor it will go through ; and 1 have always found the most short-legged oxen to be the best la- borers."' 291 The foregoing rules of breeding, and descrip- tion of good live stock, being the result of the experience of eminent English farmers and breeders, merit the particufar attention of all who shall attempt to improve upon our present races of domestic animals ; and are here intro- duced to furnish them with useful information. And in the hope and expectation that such im- provements will be undertaken, the following premiums are offered : To the person who shall produce at the pub- lic exhibition of the Society, in the year 1828, any number of milch cows, not less than four^ of our native breeds, showing manifest improve- ments therein, by an important increase in the ipeantity, and maintaining, at least, if not im- proving, tlie good quality of milk — the latter to be tested by the quantities of butter made in the six mouths next precediug the exhibition — For the best, .... 430 (■"or the next best, - - - .25 For (lie third best, .... OQ For the best pair of working oxen, or well trained steers, improved on the principles above stated, and exhibited at the same time — For the best pair, .... 420 For the second best, - . . 55 For the third best, . . . - 10 It will readily be admitted that our live stock demand great improvements ; and no one will question whether such improvements are prac- ticable. They ought then to be attempted. It will avail little to bestow premiums merely for the best that shall be produced; for such pre- miums might be given for a century, without effecting any real improvements ; and thus, as .to live stock, defeat the object for which the Society was formed. The known excellency of some oxen and cows, of our native breed, give assurance to judicious and enterprising farmers, that their numbers may be multiplied by observing the well-tried rules of breeding. The Oakes cow has probably not been surpas- sed in any country. By some she was judged to be under the size of our common cows. Her short legs probably gave rise to that opinion. There are, however, many larger cows in the county. The best bulls and cows do not always pro- duce a progeny equal to the parents ; but ex- perience lias shown, that from such on.v the highest improvements may be expected The same observation app'ies to all other kinds of live stock. Farmers who shall cflect great improvements in live stock, while they render a lastino- ben- ; cfit to their country, will lay a foundation for j advancing their own interest, in the demand, and consequently increased prices, of their im- proved breed-,. Reflecting farmers, who shall become candi- dates for preniiiini';, will b^ aware, that if (heir exertions should not obtain tlie honor of a prize they will not pass unrewarded; as all the im- provements they make «ill either give them immediate piofits, ci' add to th.e farms. The direct object of to excite niLM-ely frinl.s of skill, but to add to the solid interests of farming; and he, who shall show how we may add most to that solid interest, will obtain the highest prize. In behalf and by order of the Committee, T. PICKERING. Salem, January 22, 1823. value of their premiums is not Pope, who, whatever his good qualities might be, certainly was not much troubled with good nature, was one evening at Burton's Coffee, house, when he and a set of literati were por- ing over a manuscript of the Greek comic poet -Aristophanes, in which they found a passage they could not comprehend. As they talked pretty loudly, a young man who stood by the fire, heard their conference, and begged that he might be permitted to look at the passage. " O!" said Pope, sarcastically, "by all means, pray let the young gentleman look at it." On which he took up tlie book, and considering a while, said, that there only wanted a note of in- terrogation to render the whole intelligible, which was really the case. " And pray master," said Pope, piqueA perhaps at being outdone, "what is a note of interrogation ?" " A note of interrogation," replied the youth, with a look of the utmost coutempt, " is a little crook- ed thing that asks questions !" 'Tis said, how- ever, that Pope was so delighted with this wit- ticism, that he forgave the sarcasm on his per- son. ^5^r^ A sportsman, by touching his horse near the withers with his whip, taught him to kneel im- mediately : when shooting, and a dog came to a point, he made the horse kneel, and persua. ded tho.se present that the horse was an excel- lent pointer. A gentleman having purchased the gelding, was fording a driver with him, when, having touched his withers, he was true to the touch, down he dropped in the stream, and soused his new master in the water. The latter in a great passion, asked his former own- er what he meant by selling him a horse that played him such a trick in the water? " Oh 1" said the other, " you bought him as a pointer, and at the time he went on his knees he was pointing at a salmon.^'' The Reserve. — A gentleman showing his friend his curiosities, &c. in his gallery, on the other's praising them all very much, he gave hira a choice of any one of them as a present. The stranger fixed his election on a tablet, in which the ten commandments were -.vritten in letters of gold. " You roust excuse mo there, re- plied the gentleman, those 1 »m bound to &eep." 292 NEW ENGLAND FARxMEU. ADDRCSS OF THK HON. S. HALE, DELIVERED BKFORG THE CHESHIRE (k. h) AOUIC'-LTURAL SOCIETY, OCTO- BER, 1822. Concluded from our /«»/, p. 2C J. I have said that our good soils !i:ive been 1 exhausted of those properties which rendered j them fertile. Reason, therefore, teaclios, thatj the art and industry of man should, in the first place, be directed towards repleni-hing them with similar properties. This is done by means of manure, and to acquire a knowltJge of the best modes of making, preserving, and using it, should be the principal study of tlie i'armcr. The degree of attention applied to this branch of husbandry distinguislies the judicious from the ignorant and unskilful agriculturist; and In this, care and skill are more requisite, and are more certainly and bountifully rewarded than ID any other. No farmer should be satisfied with the quantity of manure necessarily made by bis slock of "cattle. It is in his power to obtain double that quantity ; and he may rest as- sured that, for the trouble of obtaining it, he will be amply remunerated. If he have ordi- nary advantages, he may obtain that which will be fully worth one dollar per load, at an ex- pense, which, every thing calculated, shall not exceed half that sum. If the farmers of this country would but pe- ruse the Agricultural pubiicatious of Great Bri- tain, they would be astonished at the amount of time and expense which is there devoted to this branch of husbandry. They would see long and minute directions for preparing barn yards in the manner best fitted to make and preserve manure. They would see instructions given for making compost heaps in the fields and by the side of swamps, many of which cost one, and some even two thousand dollars each. They would learn in what manner che hog pen and poultry yard are made subi»;rvient to the same purpose. They would learn to their astonish- ment that after the usual supply is obtained from all these sources, it is not unusual for the farmer who cultivates (hree hundred acres, to expend three or four thousand dollars in pro- curing and purchasing marie, ashes, lime, &,c. to be applied upon his farm. In that country, no land is cultivated without manure bountiful- ly applied — and with manure almost any land is made fertile and profitable. I do not refer to the customs of the English farmer for the purpose of recommending them to your strict imitation. In many points of view, his situation is dilTercnt from yours. The United States contain too little surplus cap- ital, and the demand for the productions of the soil is not sufficient, to authorise such extraor- dinary expenditures. I refer to them to shew you in how high estimation is held the article of naanure among farmers distinguished for their sagacity. When your attention is once fixed, and your curiosity stimulated, you will, I have no doubt, select and adopt such of the modes of making it as are best adapted to your circum- stances. Servile imitation is ever to be avoid- ed. It is perhaps more injurious in Agricultu- ral than in any other pursuit ; for no two farms nor two seasons can be precisely alike. Every farmer ought to rely mainly upon bis own judgment, but to render his judgment worthy to be relied upon, it should be improved hy read- ing, inquiry, and observation. The cheapest and most sini[dc mode of in- creasing the quantity of manure ordinarily made in the barn yard is," perhaps, to carry into it mud from the swamps, ponds, and ditche?, and turf from the side of old fences, and from the road side. In this manner excellent manure may be obtained at little expense. The mud from swamps and ponds consists principally of decomposed vegetables. It is entirely inert and insufficient until it has been made to ferment by exposing it to a certain degree of heat, or by mixing it with the putrescent substances which abound in the yard. It is then nearly as valuable as that which is thrown from the sta- ble, and especially if so placed as to absorb the liquid manure which would otherwise be lost. The best mode of preserving the strength of manure is an object worthy of more attention than it has usually received in this country. It cannot be doubted that much of it descends with the rain into the earth, and that much evaporates into the atmosphere. To prevent both, the utmost care should be taken. To guard against the former, the fiirmers of Flan- ders, who surpass even the English in attention to this branch of husbandry, pave their yards, which are made hollow in the centre, with a composition of clay and gravel. To guard against the loss of strength by evaporation, they sometimes, placing their manure in heaps, cov- er it carefully with a coat of loam, which be- comes itself manure ; and sometimes erect sheds over it to protect it from the rays of the sun. These modes are suggested for your con- sideration. But I cannot forbear to remark, that the practice of permitting small heaps to remain for a long time in the field, is an obvi- ous proof ef careless and unskilful husbandry. The state in which barn yard manure should be applied to the land is a question which has lately been considerably agitated. It is the opinion of some that it should be kept over one season, and not be used until it has arrived at an advanced stage of decomposition. It is the opinion of others, that it ought to be applied in its green state ; or in other words, that the whole of it, every spring, should be removed from the yard and used on the land. It appears to me that the latter opinion has the strongest reasons in its favor. The quantify would then be much greater. The fumes that escape in the process of putrefaction and decomposition, which are highly efficacious in promoting veg- etation, would not then be lost. It would suf- fer no injury from drenching rains nor from a burning sun. The crops, soon or late, would feel all its influence. The effects the first year might not be so perceptible, but they would continue longer. This opinion is supported by the authority of late eminent writers on the subject of Agriculture. Whether it has the sanction of long and extensive experience I am not able to say. It certainly deserves the atten- tion of those ivho are not opposed to all inno- vations and improvements in Agriculture. The swamps which abound in many parts of our country, are generally considered of but lit- tle value. Many of them, however, are capa- ble of being made the most productive land. For many centuries, the rains have carried into them the soil from the uplands. The winds have borne thither the leaves of trees. Nu- merous plants, luxuriantly growing, and yearly decaying, have added to the depth and richness of the soil. To those swamps I wish to direct the attention of farmers. Whenever it is found '■ possible to drain them, the natural outlet should be deepened, or a ditch should be dug throufrh ' the bank where the descent is greater. U is e.-scntial that the bottom of this ditch should i be at least three feet lower than the surface of the swamp. Its v/idlh, especially if the swamn • contain many acres, should not be less at i than 1 or 5 feet. One season or more shou.^ then elapse before any thing further is done, i In the mean time the swamp will have become^ sensibly drier and firmer. Let the ditch tlienH be extended into the centre or lowest part ; and* should it appear necessary, let small ditches bei dug, leading to other low parts from the main* ditch. If the land be covered with timber or* bushes, the usual mode of chopping and burn-l ing may then be adopted. Should the swamp! continue too wet, let it be encircled by a ditcn near its outer border and deep enough to cut oil the springs which run into it ; but this should! not be done unless obviously necessary, as iti will prevent the swamp from receiving anni accessions to its fertility from the hills around , Those who have never witnessed the effect os- draining will be astonished at the differencf* which in two or three years will be produced!- Cattle will find a firm footing where before ;f man could not walk. All the operations of hn- bandry can be conveniently and safely carrit on. With manure, crops of corn, and withou'i- it crops of grass can be obtained larger tha ' uplands generally yield. Every year w; render the land more valuable. Tillage, by es posing the soil to the warmth of the sun, an«: manure by producing some degree of ferment) tation, will hasten its improvement. |fc It is admitted that the process of reclaimin •' such swamps is generally tedious and somi " times expensive ; but it is believed that in iP- cases a full remuneration is certain. And bi •■' sides the individual advantage produced, the aj""! pearance of the country will be highly impro'^" ed, for nothing presents a more delightful pr^ pect than smooth and gently descending hoik covered with luxuriant vegetation. And tt'; public interest will be promoted by what wi"- amount in effect to an extensive and valuab addition to our territory. Low and wet lands, to which the epith' swampy could not well be applied, will also r ceive great benefit from draining. Too mu( water is quite as injurious as too little, to ailoi valuable crops. And often a ditch may be ma< to answer the double purpose of draining ai enclosing land. Whether draining is resorti]''" to in allcases where it would be useful, is a que''" tion well worthy the consideration of the fa mers of this country. The suggestions to 'which you have listene my fellow citizens, have been offered with ti greatest diffidence. I am well aware that id( of you are much better acquainted than I c be, with the subjects to which your attentii has been invited ; and that little has been coi municated which was not before known to yi all. If, however, 1 have impressed one impi tant truth more strongly upon your minds, shall not have spoken in vain. Truly gratifi shall I feel, if what 1 have said shall rend your arduous labors more profitable to you selves, or more useful to your country. skit; 1% NEW ENGLAND FARMER. THE FARMER. ^TOX :— SATURDAY, APRIL Vi. ir,23. Farmer's and Gardeners Remembrancer. APRIL. ,ECTS. The period is approaching or has Jy arrived, in which it behoves every far- gardener, and house Iteeper to declare a .f extermination against worms, bugs, and ip mischievous and devouring insects. It iLords of the lower world can devise no iS for repelling the attacks of those little erers, they must even be contented to di- their substance with their puny partners, not only maintain a host of creeping and g tenants, who consume the products of hu- industry, without paying rent, or rendering BF homage or service, but admit some of the leous intruders to their bed and board, 'o describe all, or the greater part of the blesome and mischievous beings, which be- to this department of animated nature, and remedies against the evils which they in- 1 order to destroy lice and other insects, but if the brine be loo strong it will lull t!ic vegetable us well as the insect. Quick lime and even strong wood ashes may also injure young and tender vegetables. The safest way is to apply such caustic and corroding substances to llie soil, some lime before the seed is put into the table 20 :j be plants, the sound sends of which will t^t iink ; but 1 Aiioti' of none. If to be found in any instance, they would, 1 think, be found in those of the Tulip tree, the Ash, the Birch and Pars- nip, all of which are furnished with so large a portion of wing. Yet all these, if sound, will sink, if put into i;Yirm water, with the wet worked a little into the wings first. 1 incline ground. Or they may be used while vegc . . „ , , ,. , , are frowin" provided they are placed near to the opinion that we should try seeds as our out touchinp- them. The juice of elder or ancestors tried witches; not by lire but by wa- witl a pretty strong decoction of elder (elder tea, as Mime would call it,) we believe is an effect- ter; and that, loilowiiig up their practice we should reprobate and destroy all that do not cgll ual remedy against all or nearly all insects, and will not injure any plant. Fall-ploughing and el- der juice we should depend upon principally in gardening as antidotes to insects. As insects are often introduced into gardens by means of dung used as manure, it might, perhaps, be well, in some instances to leach such manure, or dilate it in water, and apply the liquid part alone to a garden. This would be somewhat troublesome, but Sir John Sinclair says it is practised by far- .-,,,,„ i . r i, mers in Switzerland even in field cultivation, and and this fact has led to the emp oyment of salt readihj sink AspAUAGUS Beds. — These should be completely loosened with a fork to a moderate dejilh as soon as the frost is out of the ground ; but care must be taken not to go too deep, so as to wound the crowns of the roots. They should then be raked even before the buds begin to advance. " This plant is found growing naturally on the borders of salt marshes, and even upon such marshes. This is considered to be its natural situation ; the straw that is washed, is afterwards used as If boiling water be used , would require folio volumes, and as much r- . . |ius ui luiuimaiivii. . jL spawn, would hardly survive the op- ourselves to such as are most common, and wun lueu spanu, ..uu ^ j r ourselves lu .ui.ua .' „ij erat on. So much for insects in general; we It injurious in their operations, and would ei.uiuu. ..u u.ui- o mise, that the remedies which we prescribe nst the ravages of one kind of insect, will uently be found effectual against every oth- iort. mong the substances, which are either of- live or fatal to all kinds of insects, may be ibered elder, especially of the dwarf kind, ;Cco, quicklime, lime water, soot, unleached d ashes, strong lie, tar or turpentine, or wa- impregnated with those substances, common : finely pulverized, brine, old urine, &c. &.c. ling water is, likewise, an effectual and some- les an expedient bug and worm destroyer. AVe I .e known beds or plats in gardens, wellscald- 4 previous to sowing them with the seeds \n- lided for them with perfect success against •mis, grubs, and every species of insect, lich had its habitation in the plat, to whiih a boiling water was applied. This operatioi, .1 thoroughly performed, cannot fail to destroy t only every reptile within reach of its inflii- ice, but those eggs or nits which are lodged i« e soil, and are teeming with future mischief would be well after a bed has been well aided to enclose it with slips of boards, bark, • some other suitable material to prevent the ;cess of insects from its neighborhood. Hills Jitended for cabbages, cucumbers, melons, juashes, &.c. &c. after having been scalded, and jmetimes merely carefully dug over and in- pected, have been surrounded with strips of fhite birch bark, and remained impregnable to iTcry kind of creeping thing. If this defence 9 covered over the top with a strip of gauze >r muslin the plant is of course secured against he winged tribes. It would no doubt be a good )lan, when boiling water is applied as before nentioned to boil a few elder roots and per- laps tobacco stalks with the water, that the vprms may have the benefit of the decoction. Care should be taken, in the application of ome of the foregoing remedies not to destroy the plants instead of, or together with the in- lects which prey upon them. The old editions of Deane's New England Farmer recommended shall mention some particular kinds, in our fu- ture essays under this head, with an intention of attending to them, before the season in which their ravages are to be dreaded, and can be best guarded against. O.N THE CHOICE OF Seeds.— " The way to try seed is this. Put a small quantity of it in hike- -siarm water, and let the water be four or five inches deep. A mug or basin, will do, but a large tumbler ^lass is best ; for then you the application of strong brine to cabbages, in then see the bottom" as well as top. Some seeds, such as those of cabbage, radish and turnip, will, ii'g-ood, go to the bottom at once. Cucumber, Melon, Lettuce, Endive, and many others re- quire a few minutes. Parsnip and carrot, and all the winged seeds require to be washed by your fingers in a little water, and well wetted before you put them into the glass ; and the carrot should be rubbed so as to get off part of the hairs, which would otherwise act as the feathers do as to a duck. The seed of Beet and Mangel Wurtzel are in a case or shell The rough things that we sow are not the seeds, but the cases in which the seeds are contained, each case containing from one to five seeds. Therefore the trial by water is not, as to these two seeds, conclusive, though if the seed be very good, it will sink in water, after being in the glass an hour. And, as it is a matter of such great importance, that every seed should grow in a case where the plants stand so far apart ; as gaps in roots of Beet and Mangel Wurtzel are so very injurious, the best way is to reject all seed that will not sink, case and all, after being put into warm water and remaining there an hour. " But seeds of all sorts, are, sometimes, if not always, part sound and part unsound ; and as the former is not to be rejected on account of the latter, the proportion of each should be ascer- tained, if a separation be not made. Count then a hundred seeds, taken promiscuously, and put them into water as before directed. If fifty sink and fifty swim half your seed is bad and half good ; and so in proportion as to other numbers ol sinkers and swimmers. There may as a manure to it with very gpod cflect. To a bed lifty feet by six, a bu>!icl of salt may be safely applied before the plants start in the spring."t Beets may be sown as soon as the ground is fit to receive the seeds. The rows a foot apart and the plants should be left eight inches apart in the rows. Mr. Cobbett advises to soak the seed four days and nights in rain water before it is sowed. It should be put in about two in- ches deep, well covered and the earth pressed pretty hard upon it. " The ground should be rich, but not fresh dunged. Ashes of wood, or compost mould is best ; and the digging ought to be very deep, and all the clods broken into fine earth; because the clods turn the point of the root aside, and make the point short, or forked. Fresh dung, which, of course lies in unequal quantities in the ground, invites the tap root, or some of the side roots to it, and thus causes a short or forked beet."' The Mangel Wurtzel may be cultivated much in the same manner, excepting the seeds may be further apart. We believe Col. Powell's method (des- scribed page 276 of our paper,) equal to any which can be adopted. Cabbage. — Set out cabbage stumps as soon as the frost is out of the ground. It is said in the Domestic Encyclopoedia that " early cabbages may be procured by the following mode. In the spring as soon as the sprouts on the cabbage stalks have grown to the length of a plant fit for setting, cut them out with a small slice of the stalk, about two inches long; and if the sea- son permit, plant them in a garden, and the usu- al care will produce good cabbages." The seed of cabbages should be sowed in the open ground in rows six inches distance. They may like- wise be sown in autumn and in hot beds, but we have not room to state every possible variety in the mode of cultivating plants ; our object be- ing to mention merely the simplest and most economical. With regard to transplanting, &c. we shall say something in due season. Carrot.— Dr. Deane observed " 1 have found by long experience that carrots should be sow- ed early. The last week in April is late enough, when intended for the feeding of cattle ; and they may be sowed earlier, if the ground * Cobbett's American Gardener. t Deane's N. E. Farpier ; Wells k Lilly's edition, Hit 1 NEW Ei\GLAx\D FARiMER. l!i good orJer, and so tiry ns to be in;lde | unknown shoal or rock, wouW refuse to anchor a buoy ; "■' ■■ as a sijual of danger to his brother mariner? yet wc irtlii ;uid loofc. Tlic earliest sown will bo the l;irgor-t, ;iiid, in llie northern parts of tiie coun- try, nenrly as tender and as good ;is il" sown la- ter." Mr. Cobbett states that " the same sea- son, same soil, same manure, same preparation for sowing, same intcr-ciillivatioii, s^ame time ol" taking U[i, and mode of preserving the crop all belong to the carrot which are used with the beet. .Some fine roots may be caiefully pre- serred to plant out for seed in the spring ; and the seed should be taken only from the centre .seed stalks of the carrots, for that is the finest. The mark of a good kind is deep rod color of the top. The paler ones are degenerate, and the yellozj ones are fast go'ng back to the wild carrot." l'»\RSNn'. — This plant may be cultivated in the same manner with beets and carrots. In Eng- I ind Ihoy are freijuently raised by tieid culture, and by some are said to yield more and better food for stock or swine than the carrot or al- most any other root. Rini-H should be sown thin in little drills six inches asunder, as early as possible in the spring, and a little bed every three weeks du- ring the summer. As they are uncertain in their growth, it has been recommended to put in the seeds between rows of other plants; and they arc so soon pulled up that they will not in- commode the plants among which they grow. I'lantivo o.n Ridges. — This practice seems to be less generally approved of than formerly. Col. I'owell, of rhiladclphia, condemns it, (see N. E. Farmer, p. 277.) It is, we believe, less practised in England than it has been, although the moisture of the climate in Great Britain would seem to make it more proper for that country than for ours. LATEST NE« S FROM EUROPE. By a late arrival at New York, London papers tear It is loo much the fabhion to suppress a hwuledge I been receii-ed to the 5th, and Liverpool to the 7 i*ei o//iuV«nj, in cases of new and unsuccessful processes." "" — ■- "'- ' - Large Animals. — An ox, owned by Capt. GUman, of Exeter, N. H. was lately killed and slaughtered in rortsmouth. The animal weighed alive 24s;o lbs. the quarters 1753 lbs. A ho» brought in from Berwick on the same day weighed 754 lbs. ; he was raised by William Smith, and purchased by Mr. Edmonds. American Alum. — Samples of alum and Roman vit- riol have been manufactured in Salem, Mass. which were forwarded to Professor rilliman, of Yale College, anil are said by him to surpass any thing of the kind, which he had ever seen. '• The works in Salem (says the Salem Observer,) give constant employment to nearly 20 men, and are under the management of Mr. Joshua Upham, a very capable and judicious chemist." Cuilivalion o/ Grapes.— \ correspondent in the .\merican Farmer communicates the following method I of propagating the Grape vine: Take a cutting of three eyes, and make a place by removing the earth, tlie same as you would to plant Indian corn in a hill, and lay in two cuttings flat at the bottom, of three eyes each, and cover them in the same manner that you would corn ; out of a considerable niunber thus planted in a border scarcely one failed. PREMIDMS OFFERED BV THE ESSEX ACRICCI.TURAL SOCIETY. The article with (he above title, with which we have commenced this day's paper, will reward a dili- gent pcj-usal, not only ol' those who wish to become competitors for the [)remiums thus offered, but of every '^ j,*.- .March. These rather increase than diminish thi sea of apprehension of war between France and The session of the extraordinary Cortes had bee solved. They had previously decreed the remoi the King, and transfer of the seat of govei should invasion take place, to Cadiz. The Kin posed this, and dismissed his ministers. As soon _^ was known the populace assembled, and threateni assault the palace. The king was alarmed and r« ed his ministers, and it is supposed that he will mattly comply with their wishes. He sits upon a tering throne, which probably a popular gust eventually overturn Meeting of Parliament .—T3.r\isjiienl assembli the 4th of h'ebruary, and his Majesty's Message read. In this it is stated that "his Majesty decll being a party to Jtny proceedings at Verona, t could be de'jmed an interference in the internal rcrns of Spain on the part of Foreign Powers, his Majesty has since used, and continues to use,] most anxious endeavors and good offices to allay irritation unhappily subsisting between the French Spanish Governments; and to avert, if possible, calamity of war between France and Spain." li plain, therefore, that the British government does approve of the conduct of the Congress at Verona v regard to Spain, and this is an important point gai by the Spaniards. If the British Lion does not re and shake himself on this occasion he must be a 1 ftol [eili' Presrrring Vines from bugs, — A writer in the Ame- rican Farmer remarks that " We last year adopted a ( Tj, „„ , j j , i. ,.-,.■, contrivance (on the recommendation of ^ Jthcr,) "''^ "'^f '' ''"'^ "l"^"" '".^f^,'''' ^^.skers spun i which 1 regard as of very great importance in the cu 1- "Pf, '" V»'L'i "^^ submitted to the operation of! t;„o!.„„ „r „ ,1 „ A .u 1 . '''fl - °^ Eastman's straw Cutter, and his eye te tivation ol melons. As soon as the young plants ap- , i. j . -.i. n . » j i .• „,_„. , ,, , ■ ?■ r r knocked out with a mallet. A mere declaration on peared, we put over them a box consisting of four pieces of shingles, or thin boards, nailed together, one foot long, and about eight inches broad — over the top of this box is stretched a thin piece of worn out mus- lin, or millinet, and the edges fastened with tacks to the side of the box. This cover, while it admits the air and light, protects the plants effectually from bugs and flies, and shields them from cold winds and frosts. The difference in the growth of the plants thus cover- ed, and those which were left unprotected, was almost incredible, and I observed that while the latter were parched with the drought, the soil round the others was constantly moist, and their leaves in the raoruino^ were loaded with dew." This device we have known put in pr.acticc with good success, and is in substance what we have recom- mended in a preceding article in this day's paper. To other person, who feels an interest in the theory or ' "}^^^ assurance doubly sure, it might be well to scald practice of agriculture. The variation from the usual objects of such donations appears to us to be judicious, and calculati d to give new and profitable directions to the pursuits of the husbandman. The " Remarks" whijh accompany the statements of premiums, (as might well be expected from the eminent and scientific agriculturist, whose name is subjoined) will assist ve- ry materially in attaining the objects specified ; and experiments made in accordance with those remarks, and detailed with accuracy, will add greatly to the gen- eral stock of agricultural knowledge. Heligoland Beans. — A writer in the American Far- mer, vol. V, p. 11, says: " Farmers are frequently im- posed on, by those who lir.'t ofl'er rare seeds for sale, and I generally make experiments on a small scale : if 1 find the article not valrable, or curious, 1 discard it ; for instance, the Heligoland bean was pnflc'd off, as a very valuable field bean, producing very abundantly. I [irocured two pints, (at the rate of sixty four dollars per bushel.) I planted Ihem carefully in good ground, expecting to make enough to plant an acre or two, but was disappointed ; I planted them two years, and con- cluded 1 had iieen imposed on. It is not necessary to give the character of this bean, as 1 believe all who have planted it have discardid it ; I think it worthless in the extreme." We should like to know if this bean has been tried and condemned in liie northern states, as we fully concur with a remark on this subject liy the Editor of the Am. Farmer, viz. " It is perhaiis more incumbent on us lo report when the result is unfavora- ble llia« when it is promising — where is the benellt of exprriments if the result be not made known? What would wc s»y of the Pilot, who being wrecked ou an the earth within the boxes with a decoction of elder, and thus preserve the seeds and young plants from worms as well as bugs. part of Great Britain that she would make a comn cau"e with Spain, would keep the restless French terineddlers on their own side of the Pyrrenees, s the peace of Europe would be preserved without sti ing a stroke. French Delates. — The French Assembly has ha. stormy session. Many of its members reprobate i war, but the majority seem determined to plnnge i two rations in a sea of blood, which threatens to OT whelm all Europe rather than not support the Bo bons. The " contagion" of Liberty they consider more to be dreaded than the plague, and are deterui ed to put a stop to its progress by destroying the j tiects already infected. It is to be hoped, howev that it will break out in the camps of the invaders, a cause their forces to wither like so many unrooted ca bage plants exposed to a burning meridian sun. A friend to Liberty. — Manuel, a member of t French Chamber of Deputies, has made-himself fame hy his opposition to the unjust and nefarious Crujo. igainst freedom in Spain. He attempted repeated to utter his sentiments, but was as frequently overpoi ered and his voice drowned by the hubbubs of the pa tizans of despotism. The people without, the spect: tors, and multitudes in the streets, cheered and a) Gas Lights. — A bill to incorporat* a Gas Light Com- pany, has passed both branches of the Legislature of New York. The practicability and economy of light- ing streets and iiouses with gas is now fully established ,,,,„ ,,, , .... .- by repeated and successful trials. Londoa and Liver- P'^uded the efl-orts of Manuel, and it is the opinion . (* pool, and many of the principal manufacturing towns , ^""^ sagacious observers that his exertions, togeth. j| in Great Britain, are lighted in this way. Hotels in t ■"'"» ""^ manner m which the populace have receive i Baltimore and Philadelphia are also supplied with gas '""' ^'" '"''"'^'^ "i*" '^^'^"^^ government to pause btl lishts, which are said to unite safety, economy and | ^"^^ ""^y ^'"""^ ^P=*'"' ^"'^ perhaps cause the indefinit ^ brilliancy, in a degree surpassing the expectations of [ P°5'P<»^ement of hostilities. 4 those who introduced the improvement. Don'^t scald yorcr Poultry. — A writer in a Connecticut paper, remarks upon scalding poultry, as follows: — Scalded fowls are ill looking and will not sell for so much as those that are picked, and soon spoil, often before market ; otherwise the feathers, although not of the first quality, will amply pay for plucking. By scalding, poultry is deprived of its delicious flavour, is niad< insipid, often producing what is termed rising on the stomach. The application of Chemistry to the art of coloring (says the Providence Journal) is making rapid advances in this country. The artist is no longer obliged to grope in the dark for experience. Acquainted with those na- tur:il laws which are applicable to his profession, he goes on from one improvement to another with that confidenc*^ which is always inspired by knowledge. — Our blacks and blues are now as firm and brilliant as those of the best artist* in Europe. Oporto is now open to the admission of foreign grain about 1600 tons had arrived ; but such is the extent o I the wants of the country, that it produced little or m\ impression on the markets. It is expected that Lisboilj will also be opened. Barcelona has also been opened.' for two months, from the 14th of February. There ii } no doubt but that scarcity exists in all the provinces^' of Spain and Portugal. 4 The Emperor of Russia arrived in tlie capital of his dominions on the 3d February, after an absence of six months. He immediately proceeded to the cathedral of our Lady of Cassan, where Te Denm was performed for his safe return. The city was illuminated in the evening, Faifage of Discovery. — It has been reported that the vessels under Capt. Parry, which undertook to seek a '. north-west passage, had been seen in the Pacific ocean ' on their return, after having effected the object of their voyage. Tliis report, however, we are sorry to observe, has been contradicteid. NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 2t being able to dispose of the whole from his he manufactured the residue into sour krout, he now sells at from 8 to 10 dollars per barrel, irtatioQ to India. — ^V. I'. American. als. — Our brethren of the Southern States (says i» 'W York Statesman) will probably be surprized ' It n that upwards of two thousand men have been ;«k upon our canals during the whole of the cold passed. In May next the number will be in- to six or seven thousand, and by October it is 1 to open the navigation from Lockport to Al- yiO miles. Thus we manage matters in this THE STATISTICAL ACCOUNT OF SCOTLAND, DRAWN up from the communications of the Minis- ters of the diflercnt parishes, by Sir Johs Sin- clair, Bart. 21 vols. 8 vo. complete, only one copy ; will be sold at the very reasonable price of $50. — Among 58 heads of inquiry addressed to each minister (the whole being tao numerous for au advertisement) as a guide for their reports, are — Name, and its origin ; description of the soil and surface ; climate and dis- eases ; instances of longevity ; mode of cultivation ; implements of husbandry ; manures ; seed time and harvest ; quantity and value of each species of crop ; total value of the whole produce of the district ; wages and price of labor ; manufactures ; man. of kelp ; jio- lice ; roads and bridges ; slate of the Church, stipend, itc. number of the poor ; parochial funds and the man- agement of them ; schools, and scholars ; number ot souls; cattle, nature and value; sheep do.; swine do. coal and fuel ; antiquities ; character of the people ; advantages and disadvantages ; means by which their situation could be meliorated. " No publication of " equal information and curiosity has appeared in G. " Britain since Doomsday Book ; and that, from the " ample and authentic facts which it records it must '' be resorted to by every future ."-t-atesman, Philoso- " pher and Divine, as the best basis that has ever yet " appeared for political speculation." Also — The Complete Grazier, &c. 1 vol. 8 vo. — \merican Orchardist — Cully on Live Stock — Farmer's Assistant — Farmer's Manual— American Gardener — Villa Garden Directory — Cox on Fruit Trees, kc. kc. For sale by R. P. & C. WILLIAMS, Cornhill Square, Boston. April 12. [Revised and corre cted every Friday.] ASHES, pot, 1st qual. pearl do. BEANS, white, . . BEEF, mess, 200 cwt. No. 2 BUTTER, inspect. 1st qua!. . " 2d qual. . small kegs, family, CHEESE, new milk .... FLAX FLAX SEED FLOUR, Baltimore, swperfine, Genesscc .... Rye, best .... GRAIN, Rye Corn Barley Oafs HOGS' LARD, 1st sort . . HOPS, No. 1, LIME, , OIL, Linseed, American . . PLAISTER PARIS .... PORK, Navy Mess .... Bone Middlings . ■ Cargo, No. 1, . . . Cargo, No. 2, . . . SEEDS, Herd's Grass . . • Clover WOOL, Merino, full bIood,washed do. do. unwashed do, 3-4 washed do. 1-2 do. Native .... do. Pulled, Lamb's, 1st sort do. Spinning, 1st sort PROriSig.y MARKET. BEEF, best pieces .... PORK, fresh VEAL, MUTTON, POULTRY, BUTTER, keg & tub . . . lump, best . . . EGGS, MEAL, Rye, Indian, POTATOES, CIDER, liquor, HAY, best, usl bill. lb. busl bbl. bush lb. cask al. ton. bbl. bush lb FROM D. C. 150 00 157 OC 1 OC 9 5( 8 0( 6 50 ]'■ 1, i: lb. doz. budi bbl. ton. li 8i 7 5' 7 50 4 5( VI (.:: e.- 4'-> ci 10 1 25 65 3 00 12 00 14 00 12 00 11 00 2 25 50 4. 4* 45 38 55 4- 1 50 20 00 TO D. C, 152 50 150 00 1 10 50 OO 15 13 IG 8 9 90 62 75 00 83 08 65 45 12 1 50 70 3 25 12 50 14 50 12 50 11 50 2 50 9 65 47 50 48 40 60 50 12 9 10 7 12 16 18 12 90 SO 22 00 SAFFORD'S STRAW CUTTER, THE utility of cutting Hay, Straw, and other sub- stances for feeding cattle, is now so universally acknowledged that any remarks on the subject must be deemed superfluous. The following Certificate will therefore be conclusive of the merits of the above mcn.- tioned Machine. Hasten, March 22, 1C23. W^e, the subscribers, have in operation a Straw Cutting Machine invented and exhibited in this city by Noah Safford, and we do not hesitate to say that in our opinion it exceeds any other we have ever seen, for cheapness, simplicity, despatch and durability. Stephen Hartwell, Spcrr &: Holmes, Hezekiah Earl, Akdrew Slater. 0^ The above mentioned Machines may be had of J. R. NEWELL, at the Agricultural Establishment, No. 20, Merchant's Row, Boston. Price $15. TERMS OF THE FARMER. Q:^ Published every Saturday, at Three Dollars per annum, payable at the end of the year — but those who pay within sixty days from the time of subscribing will be entitled to a deduction of Fifty Cents. 0:5" No paper will be discontinued (unless at the discretion of the Publisher) until arrearages are paid. (tj" Complete files from the commencement of the pap'r in August can fce furnished. $»(i NEVV ENGLAND FAlliMEU. I'roin the Connecticut Herald. AN ACRF. OF CORN.— By Dr. Percivai.. I am a poor I'loughman, who never have- wandcrM Away from the sight and the pleasures of home ; I have always been pnident, and never have fijuander'd, And so 1 have never been driven to roam. For thirty long summers my shoulders have bended In tilling the farm where my fatlu T was born ; I live undtr his roof, and this s< ason have tmdtd With the plough that he left me, an acre of corn. Though others may go to the Southward and peddle, And bring liome of gtrineas and dollars good store, I never have desir'd with their cranknms to meddle, But to hoe in my garden that lies by my door. When the sun is first rising I always am hoeing The mould, when His wtt with the dews of the morn ; And when he is higher you will find me a mowing. Or driving tiie plough in my acre of corn. There arc sonic who are crossing by sea to the island They call Santa Cruze, with their horses and hay ; For my part, Pd rather be safe here on dry land, And hoc in my garden, or work by the day. 1 am out to the field with the sun, and am mowing 'Till called up at noon by the sound of the horn ; *'■ Or else I am twirling my hoe, and am (browing The mould round the roots iu uiy acre of corn. This corn is the sort that is tufted ami bowing, \iMi when we have thresh'd it, 'tis made into brooms ; *' ,Tis the best of all besoms, so far as Pm knowing, To sweep out the dirt and the dust from our rooms : They always have rais'd it, since I can remember. And, my father once told me, before I was born lie made brooms for his trade, and I guess by December I shaH make up a load from my acre of corn. AURORA EORF.AUS, OR NORTHERN LIGHT. (Concluded from page 28!!.) It is known that the electrical fluid pervades every pnrt of the earth and its atmosphere. — This substance, like all other fluids, has a ten- dency to become equally as well as universally diffused over all the objects and space which it pervades. The equilibrium, however, may, by various causes, be destroyed for a time. The process which nature institutes for restoring the equilibrium is sometimes carried on in a silent and invisible manner — sometimes it is accom- panied with a hissing, or crackling noise, and sometimes it flashes in lightning and roars in thunder. A body which has more than its nat- ural quantilij of the electric fluid is said to be positively or too much eleclrilled ; and a body which has less than its natural quantity is nega- ti'cchj or too little electrified. These extremes may be produced by art. In turning the glass cylinder of an electric machine you deprive the rubber of its natural quantity of electricity, and it accumulates in the glass, and thus the former becomes 7iegutivcli/, and the latter positively eleciritied. By presenting a needle towards the conductor you will see a bright point near its cxtremit}', and hear a hissing noise. This is the same phenomenon, on a small scale, with that which appears so wonderful in the aurora borealis. It has been well ascertained that cold air, or cold substances, such as ice or snow, are posi- tively electrified. Warm air, especially if it is moist, is negatively electrified, or a non-electric substance. Those substances which are posi- tively electrilicd are perpetually giving out the electric fluid to all surrounding objects, and those which are negatively electrified are per- petually receiving the same fluid from objects about them. The same thing takes place with regard to caloric or the matter of heat. If a red hot iron is exposed to the atmosphere, sup- pose at the temperature of summer heat, it gives out caloric to the atmosphere ; but a piece of ice, with the same exposure, would receive caloric from the atmosphere. And, in the same way, ice or snow, having a surplus of electric fluid, discharges a part into the atmosphere, when it Is comparatively warm, and has of course a deficiency of the electric fluid. But if the earth be warmer than the atmosphere the former becomes non-electric and receives the electric fluid from the latter, as is generally the case in thunder storms, when some parts of the atmosphere must be intensely cold, which is ap- parent from the circumstance that such storms are often accompanied with hail, which could only be generated where the cold was extreme. We shall attempt to make our meaning very obvious by advertinT to some instances of the electric fluid rendered visible to the senses, in its passage from the earth into the atmosphere. On the 18th of Jan. 1817, in Andover, Vermont, there was a heavy fall of snow, accompanied with lightning and thunder. Joel Manning, Jr. Esq. of^ that place, in a communication for the Vermont Republican, states that during that storm, he, together with a companion observed " on the top of a stake in the fence, a light, re- sembling a blaze of fire, about two or three in- ches in length, though not so red and brilliant. We soon observed that on every stake was a light, and also on the highest branches of bushes by the side of the fence. This excited so much wonder and curiosity that we called the people of the house, and also some who were passing in the street, to see the phenomenon. We soon observed it on our hats, hair and mittens, when held up, not in the form of a blaze, but of bright white sparks of various sizes, from those which were just discernible to those of the size of buck shot. On one stake there were three ol those blazes. On two or three stakes they emitted a sound resembling the hissing of a pot when it boils." Similar appearances were crbserved in Putnev, Vermont, during the descent of a moist snow, accompanied by a heavy clap of thunder, on the evening of the 3d of April, 1818. These phe- nomena, were, no doubt, aurorse boreales on a small scale, and resembled tho.se which have been before mentioned as having occurred in Siberia, even to the " hissing or crackling noise" which has been represented as adding terror to the sublimity of their appearance. It is undoubtedly the case that many of the prodigies recorded in ancient history were caused by apparitions of the electric fluid, sim- ilar to those above described. Streams of elec- tric fire have been seen issuing from the points of the bayonets of soldiers passing the Alps and other mountainous places. Vessels at sea some- times show their mast heads and yard arms illumi- nated as it were by magic, and men's heads have been seen surrounded with a halo of glory, such as painters represent about the head of a saint. These, as well as the northern and southern lights, are unquestionably among the modes by which electricity, that universal, all-powerful, but usually invisible agent sometimes makes it- self manifest to our senses. It has been generally supposed that northern lights were never seen or noted by the ancients. The first notice of them in English annals, ac- cording to Kees' Cyclopedia is an account of an appearance, Jan. 30, 15C0, called " burning spears," by an author of that period. In country they are said to have been first oh ed a little previous to the old French There is, however, but little doubt but prodigies mentioned by ancient historians, as armies in the sky, troops of celestial ht men skirmishing in the heavens, &c. werei ing more than northern lights, magnified shaped into fighting phantoms by fear aqi perstition. These were particularly noti iiaving appeared at the siege of Jerusalem death of Julius Cxsar, and other great and emn occasions. The following from II Ms bees, ver. 2, .'^, seem as remarkable, and perhaps, as vividly described as any record ancient history. " And then it happened, that through all city, for the space of almost forty days, t were seen horsemen, running in the aii cloth of gold, and armed with lances, til band of sOTdiers. " And troops of horsemen in array, enc tering and running one against another, shaking of shields, and multitude of pikes, drawing of swords, and casting of darts, glittering of golden ornaments, and harne: all sorts." K ;;i PROPOSALS, FOR FCBLISHING BV SUBSCRIPTION A COLLECTIC MORAL,, SF,NT1MENTAL AND SATIRIC* jj BY SELLECK OSBORN. THE author of the articles which are to coi !J this volume, never wrote with a view to & pi ofit ; he merely obeyed the impulse of the mo Hf those which were sent to the press he seldom r < d copies J and they were usually forgotten by until recalled to his mind by public prints, whicfc often gratified him by flattering notice, but which also frequently annoyed him by mutilations whicli extremely mortifying. This last circumstance (b private solicitations and other motives) has im him to collect, with considerable pains, his sea- effusions, and to add some unpublished pieces ; ' altogether will have at least the merit of being ine ; and perhaps that of inculcating to the best author's capacity, good principles and amiable ments — excluding all matters relative to party p. Disinterestedness is not pretended : It is com that a liberal patronage would be very acceptab various accounts. The author confides in the zeal of his friends throughout the Union, for th' motion of his interest in this case. The volume will be neatly printed, in a duo(l< form of 200 pages, on handsome paper, with typ tirely new, and well bound in boards, at one d payable on delivery. A commission of 12 per cent will be allowi agents on all returns made. Gentlemen holding subscription papers will p return them by the first of .lune next, or as soon a: sonable efforts have been made to obtain subscribe Editors of newspapers will oblige the author b publishing or noticing these proposals, and reoe ill subscriptions. Communications to be addressed to the anttwi ^ Merchants' Hall, Boston, Mass. Aprfl h NEW GARDEN SEEDS. FOR sale, by GEO. MURDOCK, No. 14, M:*" Square, a great variety of English and Amei* GARDEN SEEDS, of the last year's growth ; co- •■ ing of early Frame, Hotspur and Charlton Pease and late Cabbage ; early and late C'auliflower ; Marjoram, Thyme, &c. with every other Seed si;i for a Kitchen (iarden. Jllso, 40 lbs. Mangel V\ > or Scarcity — 100 lbs. Ruta Raga or Swedish luro- a quantity of ArmaQk or Carrot. March 29.-6 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. PUBLISHED BY THOMA;^ W. SUF.l'ARD, ROGERft' BUILDINGS, (JDN'GRl.-^S bTRKKl', (lOLRI'll DOOR IROM SJAIK bTRKK'J.) /OL. I. BOSTOiN, SATURDAY, APRIL 19, 182:3. No. 38. FACTS AND OBSERVATIONS UFXATING TO liRlCULTURE &, DOMESTIC ECONOMY. VOR THE NEW ENOI.ASB FARMKR. FRESliUVINO AN"D IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF GRAIN. ' When wheat has been injured during a bad vest, it ought to be juit into small stacks, in lich state it will dry much more quiclily, and sooner rendered fit for grinding into flour, stacked in a damp condition, it should rarely threshed earlier than the summer after it 1 been harvested, when its condition will be ;atly improved. Wheat, il" not in good condition, is much proved by kiln-drying ; but it should not be id, unless in cases of necessity, until some e after it has undergone that operation. It fht to be moderately kiln-dried, with a slow «t, and frequently turned. But if the grain musty, it ought to pass through a previous ■cess, which is thus described by an eminent ■mist. •The wheat must be put into any convenient sel, capable of containing at least three es the quantity, and the vessel must then be :d with boiling water ; the grain should then jccpsionally stirred, and the hollow and de- ed grains, (which will float) may be ronov- When the water has become cold, or, in eral, when about half an hour has ehipsed, to be drawn off. It will be proper then to e the grain with cold water, in order to re- e any portion of the water, wliich had tak- ei ip the must ; after which, the corn being -rnnd Prn.ioncr of Holland, was side, and the county road on the other. Every for some years at the hoad of the Department ram carries the essence oi the manure into the of St=^c. and shewed himself to be one of the road or the nil ; and every once in a while a 1st complete nnanciers the >,?e could boast of. ■ violent shower sweeps the premises, floats off Beinsr a«ked how he could find time to accom- every straw, and leaves the whole at least as plish^all his adairs, his answer was, in substance, clean as h,s house floor ; and this Mr- &hama- [haths whole secret lay in " doincc one thing way calls „ea(/ar„n,^. .' If one undertakes to He did that first, which required Poiat out to Mr. S. the absurdity o such man- at a lime. lirst to be done, and completed one thing before he began another. In that way he not only fin- ished whatever he undertook, but generally found leisure to compensate for the toils o( the dav by social converse, and innocent pastimes with his t'riends in the evening. Gen. Washington was attached to system in business, and therefore generally successful in whatever he attempted. It has been -aid that he planned on his morning [)illow the course of each day's proceeding; and very rarely devia- ted from such course, unless compelled by the occurrence of unforeseen, and nncontrolable circumstances. A Tanner cannot do better than to imitate the example of these great men. He should, so far as is practicable, have his system of operations — every thing proper to be done on his farm and means of doing it, settled and de- termined in his own mind a consider;il)le time before hand. His fields should be numbered, and a plan arranged, at least in his head, if not on paper, with regard to his crops, obtaining and preparing seed, necessary ploughings, im- plements, iic. itc. He should be able to give a reason for every step he takes, and every stroke he strikes, and so husband his strength and resources, as not to lay out a cent's worth of either without an assignable motive, which is at least satisfactory to his own mind. We would not, however, wish a man to be so big- oted to any system or plan as not to alter it as reason, observation and experience m.iy dictate. There is some sense in the saying that " a wise man sometimes changes his mind, but a fool never does." What we would solicit is, that every cultivator should form a plan for man- aging his farm, which may serve as a general oHtlinc for his proceeding, to be altered or fil- led up as his circumstances, and increase of ag- ricultural knowledge may dictate. We would, at any rate, advise every farmer before he rises in the nwrning to decide in the probable busi- nos* of the day, and ho may as well with " his heavy head,"" press his pillow, or " sit on his liead.s' antipodes in bed" till noon, as rise ever so early, and whirl about all the forenoon, like n hen with her neck twisted, or a pigeoc with its head nipped. Many a man labors hard, and remains poor because " he does not know how to set himseli to work." There's Mr. .Simon Shainaway, for example, will turn olV work at a great rate, es- pecially when he works by the job, but he re- quires a guide or overseer as much as a horse that is ploughing among corn needs somebody to ride or lead him. He commonly works out at day's work, but lias a small farm of his own, in which he '■ carries on" so badly that he might as well be asleep as undertake to cultivate it. He has a sort of a barn or rather hovel, where he keeps or more properly starves t»vo or three miserable animals every winter ; and generally has to work out, to procure fodder to keejp them alive in the spring. His place for yarding the agement, he is sure to be saluted with a volley of abuse against 6oo/c /(irmino- ; and '■^ gentlemen farmers'''' who make manure in their closets, and undertake to talk about " breeds of cattle,^'' when they can hardly tell a steer from a heifer. This notable farmer, undertook to set out a small orchard. The piece of ground from which he was to make his fortune by making cider, contained about an acre, of a soil natur- ally .good, but it had become bound out as the phrase is, that is to say, it was swarded with a turf as tough as a side of soal leather. Mr. Shamaway bought some apple trees from a neighboring nursery, and gave his note payable in work at hay time. By the bye, he was in a great hurry (as he commonly is) when he set about planting his orchard. He tore up the young trees in the nursery, principally by the aid of a strong arm and an old axe, cutting, slashing, twisting, breaking and bruising all be- fore him. He then carted the mutilated (mur- dered I was going to say) plants to the place inten- ded for an orchard, let them lay in the sun while he dug little holes for them about 6 or 0 inches square, — crowded in the roots, torne, twisted, doubled, crumpled up in a heap, left both tops and bottoms pretty much without trimming, and jammed, and stamped the earth about them as hard as possible, so as to save the trouble of supporting them by stakes — took no note of the point of compass, but, as often as any way placed the tree, so that the north part of it fronted the south, which of course deranged the whole economy of its vegetation. In this way, he soon got through with his job, and felt as proud, apparently, as Nebuchadnezzar, or any other great conqueror, when he had pluck- ed up a whole nation by the roots, and planted a new colony with its harassed and halt-alive population. The trees, iiowever, were soon taken sick — most of them died — the rest never flourished, and our notable mismanager lost his time, his labor, his pay for the trees, and his prospect of an orchard. No wonder then that he not only sighed sorrowfully but groaned bit- terly when obliged, the next hay time, to worl (I forget how many days) to pay for his apple trees, which proved worse than nothing to him.! We have given the above as one specimen out of fifty which might be mentioned, of Mr. Shamaway's ill-directed activity, and often worse than useless labors. He is, however, a man ot sc'icnce, in kis way ; and knows as much as the common run of magistrates, who used to hang old women for witches. He makes the Moon his chief counsellor, and watches all her mo- tions with as much solicitude as if his all de- pended on her waxing and waning. The Signs in the almanac are also very important matters with this great calculator. His seeds must be planted in such a time in the moon, or they will all run to stalk and vine ; his hogs must be kill- ed when the moon is on the increase, or his pork will decrease unconscionably when boiled ; his bushes must be cut in the old of tlie moo in August, when the sign is in the heart, becaos when the sign is in the heart, the bushes w: lay it to heart if their heads are cut off. H will undertake nothing new on Friday, becaui that is an unlucky doy, and his wife would ( more think of churning or making soap on Fi dav, than she wonld (good woman) of dancii hornpipes on Sunday. When he sees the ne moon over his left shoulder, it is " a sarta sign," he says " something or 'nother is a goii „ fji to happen ; I minded it that lime when the o jjl) sow got into the later-yard, the old cow brol ,] . her leg in the pole-bridge, and Jemmy like : J, died of the measles." He thus lives in contini ^o al apprehension, watching the moon— his oni i,,;, counsellor, — and poring over signs in the aim i „ nac — which compose his whole agricultural I L — gathering his harvest of misfortunes b( ..g, live ^ 0 lepe' ID II fore hand, and suffering as much or more froi apprehension than from the sad realities of lifi This man has some system, to be sure, but it i founded on things which have no foundation and what little knowledge he possesses is lik the glimmering of a jack-o-lantern which point out and faintly illuminates the road to ruin. IflOl From the National (Vermont) Standard. LEGAL INTELLIGENCE. The adjourned session of the Supreme Couii in this county closed on the 5lh inst. The laudi able exertions of our present judges to conlrac the course of litigation, and clear the docket c long standing suits, has finally succeeded. Sev eral adjudications of considerable consequeno have been made. We shall lake the liberty t notice the case of Hagar vs. Woodbridge, as c pre-eminent importance. This was an actioi commenced for the taking of stage horses, &c which the plaintiff claimed under an absolut and unconditional bill of sale from Campbell the original proprietor This sale was acknowl edged to be founded upon a fair and valuabl consideration. The possession of the property was considered as unchanged, although Camp bell continued to run the horses upon the lin« under a lease of the same, executed simultane ously with the bill of sale, by which a certain rent per annum was stipulated to be paid to the plaintiff. The defendant claimed the property by virtue of the levy of an execution against said Campbell subsequent to the sale above mentioned. The case was argued on the pari of the plaintiff at length, and with great legal ability. But the Court decided under all the circumstances that the sale to the plaintiff was fraudulent and void. They occupied the grounds taken in the case of Edwards vs. Harbin, decide td in England, and Hamilton vs. Russel, decid- ed by the Supr«^me Court of the United States, and recognized the broad principle that every bill of sale of personal chattels which are sus- ceptible of immediate delivery unaccompanied by possession, was per sc fraudulent against cred- itors, and that no proof of valuable consideration passing from the vendee could change the legal character of the transaction. They observed that the principle they had adopted afforded a defiaite and necessary rule to detect deceit in the transfer of personal chattels, and that to limit its operations by an inrestigation of the circumstan- ces of each particular case would constitute a felo ie se, and destroy its utility altogether. This decision was not howeyer unanimous. I!^W ENGLAND FARMEIl. 301 f SEW ENGLAND FARMER. SA.TURUAY, APRIL 19, 1823. The Farmer''s and Garilener''s Remembrancer. APRIL. Planting Thees. — After your ground has been 1 operly trenched, spaded or ploughed, till it is isJe perfectly tine and mellow, you may pro- ed, in the most judicious manner, and accord- )g to the best authorities, to plant your fruit ees, forest trees, &c. The tree to be ])lanted lould be as young as circumstances admit. Mr. ficol, an English writer of reputation, states that generally trees three, or at most four ears old from the seed, and which are from 2 to 24 inches high, will, in any situation or oil, outgrow those of any size under eight or en feel, within the seventh year."* Mr. Cob- ett says " If the tree be for an orchard it must e five or six feet high, unless cattle are to be :ept out for two or three years. And, in this ase, the head of the tree must be pruned short, 0 prevent it from swaying about from the force f the wind. Even when pruned, it will be ex- losed to be loosened by this cause, and must be ;ept steady by a stake ; but it must not be fas- ened to a stake, until rain has come to settle the jroimd ; for, such fastening would prevent it rem sinking with the earth. The earth would ink from it, and leave cavities about the roots. iVhen the trees are short they will require no takes. They may be planted the second year ifter budding, and the first after grafting, and hese are the best times."t A great difference of opinion appears to exist •especting the time of the year best adapted to )Ianting fruit trees In Pennsylvania, the spring if the year is preferred. Ebenezer Preble, Esq. n a communication to the Mass. Agr. Society, ays that he prefers autumn to spring for plani- ng apple trees, as the ground will settle round he roots previous to the frost setting in, and )e prepared to shoot in the spring, aided by he rains which prevail at that season. If plant by other fibres more quickly. Dig the hole to plant in three times as wide, and six inches deeper than the roots actually need, as more room. And now, besides the line earth gener- allv, have some good mould sificJ. Lay some ol' iliis six inches deep at the bottom of the iiolc. I'lace the roots upon this in their natural order, and hold the tree perfectly upright, while you put more sifted earth on the roots. Sway the tree backwanl and forward a little, and give it a gentle lift and shake, so that the earth may find its way amongst the roots, and leave not the smallest cavity. Every root should be close- ly touched by the earth in every pari. When you have covered all the roots with the silled earth, and have seen that your tree stands just as high with regard to the level of the ground as it did in the place where it before stood, al- lowing about three inches for sinking, till up the rest of the hole with the common earth of the plat, and when you have about half filled it, tread the earth that you put in, but not very hard. Put on the rest of the earth, and leave the surface perl'ectly smooth. Do not water by any means. Water, poured on, in this case, sinks rapidly down, and makes cavities amongst the roots ; lets in air ; mould and canker follow ; and great injury is done."* '■ If you plant in the spring, let it be as early as the ground will bear moving ; only bear in mind, that the ground must be dnj at top when you plant. In this, the new roots will strike out almost immediately ; and as soon as the buds begin to swell shorten the head of the tree. After a spring planting it may be neces- sary to guard against drought; and the best pro- tection is the laying of small stones of any sort round the tree, so as to cover the area of a circle of three feet in diameter, of which circle the stem of the tree is the centre. This will keep the ground cooler than any thing else you can put upon it.f Mr. Forsyth says, " In transplanting trees, especially large ones, I consider it to be ol ?d in spring, he observes, the drought and heat great consequence that they be placed in the fa' jf summer will injure, if not destroy them, be- 'ore the roots find their placq. He transplanted them as soon as the leaves fell in aut«mn, and farmers have generally more leisure at that time than in the spring.^ Mr. M'Mahon says, '' as the seasons for planting out fruit and other trees, differ so much in the climates of the U. States, and even in the same place, in different seasons, the only sure guide is, to plant all kinds of trees as soon as their buds begin to swell, or rather a little before. ""§ Mr. Cobbett says, " the season of planting fruit trees is when the leaves become yellow, or as early as possible in the spring." When your ground is prepared, take up the iree with care without wrenching or tearing it. ♦' Prune the roots with a sharp knife so as to leave none more than a foot long ; and if any have been torn off nearer to the stem, prune the part, so that no bruises or ragged parts re- main. Cut off alt the fibres close to the roots ; for they never live, and they mould, and do great injury. If cut off their place is supplied * Practical Farmer, p. 150, 153; see, likewise, Mr. Lowell's observations on planting Forest Trees, pub- lished in New England Farmer, No. 8, p. 59. ' t American Gardener, par. 287, 288. % Mass. Agricultural Repository, vol. iv, p. 8-1. same position (that is, having the same parts facing the same points of compass) as formerly. If you take notice when a tree is cut down, you will find that three parts in four of the growth are on the north side.'' With regard to the distance of each other, which apple trees should be planted, a variety of opinions have been entertained. Miller, an experienced English horticulturist, recommends, when the soil is good, fifty or sixty feet ; and where the soil is not so good, forty feet. Law- son, another English writer, observes that in a good soil, and under proper management, apple trees will, in forty or fifty years, spread twelve yards on every side ; and the adjoining tree spreading as much, gives twenty-four yards, or seventy-two feet, and the roots will extend still i Gardener's Calendar, page 214. * " The holes ought, for various reasons, to be made previous to the day of planting. If the season of plant- ing be spring, and the ground and the weather be dry, the holes should be watered the evening before the day of planting, by throwing two or three pails full of water into each ; a new but eligible practice." — Thacher^s Orchardist, p. 52. t It has been found by experience to be a good prac- tice, in a light soil, to mix small stones with the loam about the root of the tree, in returning the earth into the hole. These stones help keep the roets firm in I their places in high winds, and prevent the earth about ^ them from being loosened. t'urthei. He thereibre recommfnds that apple trees be set at the distance of ciglity feet from each other. Dr. Deane observed that trees in that cold and cloudy region [England] need ev- ery possible exposure to the sun and air. It should be considered at the time of planting to what size the trees are likely to grow. And Ihcy should he set so far asunder, that their limbs will not be likely to interfere wiien they arrive at their full growth In a soil Ihat suits ihcin best they will become largest. Twenty five feet may be the right distance in some ; but thirty-five feet will not be too much in the best or even forty."* \S'e believe that the distance most generally recommended is forty feet in all directions. It docs not answer a good purpose to plant small trees in the midst of full grown trees, nor to plant young trees where old ones have lately grown. An orchard should have a northern exposure, and it is said that the rows of trees in an orchard ought to incline to a point of compass towards the east, as such an in- clination gives the trees the greatest benefit from the morning sun. On the choice of trees for pl.^kting. — " It has been a received opinion, that the soil for a nursery should not be made rich, as the plants when removed to a more fertile soil, will flour- ish more luxuriantly ; but late observation has decided that the reverse of this will be found correct. Where the soil is poor and lean, trees, in every stage of growth, are observed to be weak and stinted ; while those reared in a good mellow soil always assume a free growth, and advance with strength and vigor."! Look to your Sheep and Lambs. — " See that the lambs can come at the teat ; and if not, clip away the wool of the ewes which hinders thera, as also all tags of wool on the udders of the ewes which the lambs are liable to take hold of instead of the teats. " If a ewe refuse to let her lamb suck, she and her lamb should be shut up together in a close place till she grow fond of him. For this purpose, some say that surprising a sheep with a dog will be effectual. " Care should be taken to feed the ewes plen- tifully after yCaning, and with some juicy kind of food [potatoes are excellent,] so that the lambs may not fail of having plenty of milk. The rams may be gelded at any time from one to three weeks old, if they appear to be well and strong. " They should not be weaned till they are six weeks, or two months old. At this age they should be taken from the ewes, and have the best pasture during the first tortnight; by the end of which time they will bo so naturalized to living wholly upon grass that they may be turned into a poorer pasture. " The worst woolled lambs, and bad colored ones, and those that are very small, should be destined to the knife, and not weaned."} " Should any deformed or lame lambs be found in your flock, or should any one be killed by accident, strip off the skin from such lamb, and cover with it either a twin lamb, or the lamb of a young ewe, which does not appear to be a good nurse, aud shutting up the ewe that has lost her lamb, she will generally take it as her own. Should she refuse, she must be * Dcane's N. E. Farmer, p. 302 ; Welb & Lill/« ebey the mandate of expulsion, he was at length aed out by force, the National Guards having been led in to carry into effect the decree of the Assem- The people without showed much excitement in sequence of such cavalier treatment of one of their resentatives, but their anger appears to have evap- ted in clamor and menaces. ipain. — Intelligence has been received fro"m Cadiz late a« the 7th March. The commencement of hos- ties was hourly expected. The king was confined .lis bed by indisposition, being threatened with an ick of the gout. The queen was said to be affected h convulsions. The Spanish Cabinet have declined proffered mediation of Great Britain, which had for basis some modification of their constitution, which ;ht comport with the views in France. Spain is iry where tranquil, and it is affirmed that danger I had the effect of uniting the people. Sir Robert Json has been appointed to the command of the Por- ;uese division, to operate against the French, in the slit of their entering Spain. Young A'apoleon. — One of the London papers lately eived at New-York, speaks of a rumor that Gen. Uemand, one of Bonaparte's best generals, is occu- dat Barcelona, in Spain, is raising a corps of 10.000 a, composed of Frenchmen disaffected to the present ?ernmcnt of France, whose object is, on the break- out of war between France and Spain, to march o France under the tri-colored flag, with the view sxciting a revolution in that country, driving out the arbons, and placing young Napoleon on the throne his father. DOMESTIC. f^oles for Governor. — Returns have been received 279 towns, which give Eustis 33397— Otis 293-44. out 25 towns remain to be heard from. 'Phe election of city officers took place last Monday. In. JosiAH QciNCY was chosen Mayor, and the lol- Liug gentlemen Aldermen, viz : — David W. Child, ieph H. Dorr, Enoch Patterson, Stephen Hooper, Jier Benjamin, Daniel Baxter, Caleb Eddy, and Geo. 'iernc. The Hon. Judge Jackson has resigned the office of Justiro of the Supreme Judicial Court, ou account of the ill state of his health. Hon. Josiah Quincy has resigned the office of Judge of the Municipal Court of this city. Eclipse of the Sun. — It is stated in the Harper's Ferry Free Press, that, on the CTlh June, lG-24, there will be an eclipse of the .Sun, to commence at 34 min- utes after four, and continue 2 hours 55 miuutr s. To- tal darkness at 5C minutes after 5. 'J'here will not be another total eclipse of the Sun, visible in the U. S. until the 20th July, 1860. A duel was fought on the oth inst. near Philadelphia, over the Delaware line, between Gen. Cadwallader and Dr. Pattison, of Baltimore. The former was wounded in the wrist. The parties stood 9 pact s or about 27 feet apart. The Gen.'s pistol was not dis- charged, as he was in the act of taking deliberate aim when the pistol of the Doctor was fired. Apprehen- sions are felt that a lockjaw will take place, as the arm is much swelled, and the ball is not extracted. Washington, March 2C. Prairie Dogs. — The Rev. Samuel Giddings, of St. Louis, who took a toHr among the Western Indians last spring and summer, gives the following account, in his journal, of these singular animals ; ^'' June 14, 1822 — We passed a village of barking squirrels, or prairie dogs. They have the appearance of the grey squirrel in color and shape, but are three times as large. Their noise exactly resembles that of the smaller kind of dogs. They burrow in the earth, and are never seen far from their habitation. They live on grass and herbage ; and not a spear of grass is suffered to grow within the bounds of their village. On the first appearance of danger, they flee to the mouth of their burrow, and when it comes near, they enter, and can rarely be driven out by smoke or water. Thousands dwell in the same village, forming a little community. Their burrows are from ten to twenty feet apart, with a mound of dirt at the entrance, of from one to two feet in height, which serves as a watch tower. On the approach of danger, they raise an in- cessant barking. We were much annoyed during the night by the barking of these animals." Astronomical. — A beautiful Orrery or Planetarium, invented by Mr. Hart, principal of the Mechanics' School, in this city, is deposited for exhibition at the bookstore of Messrs. Bliss & White, in Broadway. In- struments of this kind are extremely useful, and indeed indespensably necessary, in illustrating the movements of the planetary world. Orreries and celestial globes are in the science of astronomy what maps, charts, and terrestrial globes are in geography. In either study the scholar's ideas must be confused and imperfect without the use of these artificial aids. The most beautiful Or- rery we have ever seen was at Mr. V'ogel's, opposite Washington Hall. It was connected with a time- piece, and the revolutions of the planets and their sec- ondaries accurately measured by the machinery. Mr. Hart's invention is said to have been approved and adopted by some of the instructers in this city. J^'eic-York Slntaman. PROPOSALS, FOR rrBMSHING A VOLUME ENTITLED COMPENDIUM OF AGRICULTURE, or the Far- mer's Guide in the most essential parts of Hus- bandry and Gardening ; compiled from the best Ame- rican and European publications, and the unwritten opinions of experienced cultivators. Now is the time when agriculture is making more rapid strides towards perfection, than appear to have been for ages. This may be attributed in some meas- ure to the Agricultural Societies established in Swit- zerland, France, Britain and America. But we know of no work accessible by farmers in general, that con- tains a good concentrated account of these valuable modern improvements. The work proposed, there- fore, has occupied the attention of the Editors a con- siderable time, and still demands the utmost assiduity in collating and condensing for the press — so that none of the recent improvements in rural economy should be omitted that might render it interesting and jerviccable to the farmers of this country. Tlic Editors, (concenied themselves in rural affaii>) fully apprized of the iajpoilance of agriculture, the first and most indispensable of arts, are determinid to spare no pains to render it a really useful book to all who know how to appreciate such works. The volume, to coiit.iiu about 300 pages, 12 mo. ;,t one dollar in boards, will be put to press when the niunbcr of subscribers shall be sufficient to encourage printing. Those persons wl,o have obtained subscribers for the above work, are requdtctcd to leave their names at the office of the Manufacturers' and Farmers' Journal, by the fast of July next. Proiidenee, April, 1823. ENGLISH BULL. FOR s^le or to let, an IMPORTED BULL of 3 1-2 years old, of the Normandy breed (similar to the Aldernty., only rather larger sized) and considered the richest Milkers in Europe. This animal is large, and very finely shaped, a brindle color and perfectly gentle. Price, One Hundred and Fifty Dollars ; or if well pla- ced, will be let on equal shares for two years-. Also— TWO BULL CALVES, from first rate Milk- ers, and a FULL BLOOD ALDERNEY BULL, owned by the Massachusetts Agricultural Society — will be sold for Fifteen Dollars each, if taken away immediately. Apply to JOHN PRINCE, at his Farm on Jamaica Plain. Roxbuiy, 19th April, 1823. PRICES OF COUNTRY PRODUCE, &c. [Revised and corrected every Friday.] ASHES, pot, 1st qual. . . . pearl do BEANS, white, BEEF, mess, 200 cwt. . . . cargo, No. 1 " No. 2 BUTTER, inspect. 1st qual. . " 2d qual. . small kegs, family, CHEESE, new milk .... FLAX FLAX SEED FLOUR, Baltimore, superfine, Genessee .... Rye, best .... GRAIN, Rye Corn Bailey Oats HOGS' LARD, 1st sort . . HOPS, No. 1, LIME, OIL, Linseed, American . . PLAISTER PARIS .... PORK, Navy Mess .... Bone Middlings . Cargo, No. 1, . . . Cargo, No. 2, . . . SEEDS, Herd's Grass . . • Clover WOOL, Merino, full blood,washed do. do. unwashed do. 3-4 washed do. 1-2 do. Native .... do. Pulled, Lamb's, 1st sort do. Spinning, 1st sort PROriSTO^r MARKET. BEEF, best pieces . . . PORK, fresh VEAL, MUTTON, POULTRY BUTTER, keg & tub . . lump, best . . EGGS, MEAL, Rye, Indian, .... POTATOES, CIDER, liquor, .... HAY, best FRO.II D. C. ton. no 00 160 00 bush 1 00 bbl. 9 50 8 00 6 50 lb. 13 10 15 8 bush 85 bbl. 7 50 7 50 4 50 bush 80 65 63 43 lb. 9 10 cask 1 25 gal. 65 ton. 3 00 bbl. 12 00 14 00 12 00 11 00 bnsh 2 25 lb. 8 55 45 45 40 38 55 60 lb. 8 6 6 6 10 15 16 doz. 10 busl^ 85 78 37 bbl. 1 50 ton. CO m TO D. C. 173 00 162 50 1 10 8 50 7 00 14 n 16 8 9 SO 7 62 7 75' 5 00 83 68 65 45 1 12 50 00 3 25 12 50 14 50 12 50 11 50 2 50 9 65 48 55 45 49 60 55 10 8 8 7 12 16 18 12 90 80 22 00 :504 NKW ExN'GLAxND FARMER. On the scnsibilily nf the Brute Creation to the va- rious changes of the xvcalhcr. \Vf.t weather scKIoni huita the most unwise, !?o plain the si^ni", such prophetj are the skies ; The wary CViihc foresees it first, and sails Above the storm, and leaves tlic hollow vales : The Cow looks up, and from afar can fnul The change of heaven, and snuffs it in thy wind. The Swallow skims the river's watery face, The Frngs renew the croakings of their race ; The careful ^tnl her secret cell forsakes. And drags her eggs alon^j the narrow tracks ; Huge (locks of rising Rooks forsake their food, And crying, seek the shelter of the wood. Besides, the several sorts of fVarry fouls. That swim the seas or haunt the standing pools. Then lave tluir backs with sprinkling dews in vain, And stem the stream to meet the promised rain. The CVou; with clamVous cries the show'r demands, And single stalks along the desart sands. VinciL. GEN. WASHINGTON. The following' authpiitic letter from Gen. \Vashing'ton. to Dr. Cochran, Director General of the American military hospitals during the revolutionary war, is extracted from the num- ber just published of the London Magazine. West-Point, Ausr IG, 1779. Dear Doctor — I have asked Mrs. Cochran and Mrs. Livingston to dine with me tomorrow ; but ought I not to apprize them of their fare ? As I hate deception, even ivlicrc imagination is concerned, 1 will. It is needless to premise that my table is large enough to hold the ladies— of this they liad occular proof yesterday. To say how it is usually' covered is rather more essential ; and this shall be the purport of my letter. .Since my arrival at this happy spot, we have had an ham, sometimes a shoulder of bacon, to grace the head of the table — a piece of roast beef adorns the foot, and a small dish of greens or beans (almost imperceptible) decorates the centre. When the cook has a mind to cut a ligure (and this 1 presume he will attempt to do to-morrow,) we have two beef-steak pies or dishes of crabs in addition, one on each side of the centre dish, dividing the space, and reduc- ing tiie distance between dish and dish to about six feet, which, without them, would he near- ly twelve apart. Of late, lie has had the sur- prising luck to discover that apples will make pies, and it's a question if, amidst the violence of his efforts, we do not get one of apples, in- stead of having both of beef if the ladies can put up with such entertain- ment, and stibmit to partaktr of it on plates, once tin, but now iron, (not become so by the labor of scouring,) 1 shall bo hap()y to see them. / am, dear sir., your most uhvdicnl servant, GEO. WASHINGTON. To Dr. Joii.v Cochran. Extract of a letter from an officer in the British ariuy to his brother, at present in tliu city of Pittsburg, I'enu. dated Secundrabad, near Golconda, Kast In- dies. '■ 1 arrived here after a march of five hun- dred miles throut,'h a delightful country. We encamped each day on the march, and were three months from Madras to this place. It would astonish you to see au army on its march through this country. The elephants aro like moving mountains ; but they are the most do-i cilc of animals. A young one, about two years old, following its dam, being full of play, hap- pened to throiv down a child. The dam turned round, took up the child with her trunk, and hav- ing put it in a place of safety, beat the young one most srvcrcty. " The pagodas, or places of worship, are some of them astonishing structures, and are from one to ten stories high. The sculpture of some of them would do honor to our modern artists. The natives are divided into castes. Some castes worship the elephant, others the cow, the sun, the tire, k,c. but they all believe in a future state." — Genius of Liberty. The Dog nf Pera. — The house of a Greek in- terpreter at i'era, in the suburbs of Constantino- ple, being on tire, he had saved nearly all his property by the assistance of a few Janissaries, but more anxious, without doubt, for his money than for his family, he had forgotten an infant in its cradle. No one could enter the house, for every thing was on fire. The father, re- duced to despair, believed that his child had perished ; when, of a sudden, a large dog, which he kept to guard his dwelling, emerged from the flames, bearing the innocent little cieature suspended by its linen from his mouth. They reached towards the dog to take the child, but he would not abandon it, and eluding their ef- forts, he ran through a number of streets, until he reached the house of an intima'.e friend of his master, where he deposited the precious burden, and remained till the door was opened to receive it. Can yoxi imagine what was the reward of this faithful and generous servant ? The owner strove to recompense him — but the mode that he devised wa.s equally absurd, afllicting, and incredible. With a barbarous gratitude he kil- led the dog, and had him served up at his table at a splendid feast which he gave on the occa- sion. " My dog," said the Turk, " has behaved too well to be the food of worms. Men only deserve to cat him. And as for you," looking at his friends and relations, " you cannot but gain by it- -it will render you more benevolent." There is in this attested fact, more of bar- barism than of feeling ; — it would have been infi- nitely better to have caressed and taken care of his dog until extreme age, than thus to devour him like wolves. In India, a dog, after such an act. would perhaps have obtained a temple. This would have been, no doubt, ridiculous, but it is better to err by being over grateful, than to sin by the excess of ingraliude. . Mr. Curran was once asked what an Irish gentleman, just arrived in England, could mean by perpetually putting out his tongue. " 1 sup- pose," replied the wit, "he's trying to catch the English accent." NEW GARDEN SEEDS. FOR sale, by GEO. MURDOCK, No. 14, Market Square, a great variety of English and .American (r.\m)FN SEEDS, of the last year's growth ; consist- ing of early Frame, Hotspur and Charlton Pease ; early and late Cabbage ; early and late Cauliflower ; Sweet -Marjoram, Thyme, &c. with every other Seed suitable for a Kitchen Garden. J}Lio, 40 lbs. Mangel Wurtzel or Scarcity — 100 lbs. Uuta Baga or Swedish Turnip — a quantity of Aioiack or Carrot. March 29.— 6w PROPOSALS, FOR rCBLISHI.VG EV SrBSCRlPTIO.N A COLLECTION C MORAl., SENTIMENTAL AND SATIRICAL. BY SELLECK OSBORN. TIIE author of the articles which are to compo? this volume, never wrote with a view to fame profit ; he merely obeyed the impulse of the momen Of those which were sent to the press he seldom retail ed copies ; and they were usually forgotten by hit until recalled to his mind by public prints, which ha' oft' n gratified him by flattering notice, but which hai also frequently annoyed him by mutilations which wc extremely mortifying. This last circumstance (besid pm ate solicitations and other motives) has induce him to collect, with considerable pains, his scatten effusions, and to add some unpublished pieces ; whii altngLther will have at least the merit of being gen' iuL ; and perhaps that of inculcating to the best of tl author's capacity, good principles and amiable sen ments — excluding all matters relative to party politic Disinterestedness is not pretended : It is confe that a liberal patronage would be very acceptable, i various accounts. The author confides in the trii zeal of his friends throughout the Union, for the pr motion of his interest iu this case. 1 he volume will be neatly printed, in a duodecin form of 200 pages, on handsome paper, with type e tirely new, and well bound in boards, at one doUj payable on delivery. A commission of 12 per cent will be allowed ag! uts on all returns made. Gentlemen holding subscription papers will plea ri turn them by the first of June next, or as soon as re soil able efforts have been made to obtain subscribers. r.d iters of newspapers will oblige the author by I publishing or noticing these proposals, and receivi subscriptions. Communications to be addressed to the author .Merchants' Hall, Boston, Mass. April 5. TIIE STATISTICAL ACCOUNT OF SCOTLAN DRA^A'N up from the communications of the MiD ters of the dlUerent parishes, by Sir John Si CLAiR, Bart. 21 vols. 8 vo. complete, only one cop will be sold at the very reasonable price of $50. Among 58 heads of inquiry addressed to each minis' (the whole being too numerous for an advertisemei as a guide for their reports, are — Name, and its origi description of the soil and surface ; climate and d eases ; instances of longevity ; mode of cultivatio: implements of husbandry ; manures ; seed time a: harvest ; quantity and value of each species of cro" total value of the whole produce of the district ; waji and price of labor ; manufactures ; man. of kelp ; f lice ; roads and bridges ; state of the Church, stipi ■ Sic. number of the poor ; parochial funds and the in agement of them ; schools, and scholars ; number souls ; cattle, nature and value ; sheep do. ; swine i' coal and fuel ; antiquities ; character of the peopl' advantages and disadvantages ; means by which tlv situation could be meliorated. " No publication " equal information and curiosity has appeared in ' " Britain since Doomsday Book ; and that, from 11 " ample and authentic facts which it records it nn " be resorted to by every future Statesman, Pbiln " pher and Divine, as the best basis that has ever ; " appeared for political speculation." Also — The Complete Grazier, &c. 1 vol. 8 vo. American Orchardist — Cully on Live Stock — Farmei Assistant — Farmer's Manual — American Gardener Villa Garden Directory — Cox on Fruit Trees, &c. tl For sale by R. P. & C. WILLIAMS, Cornhill Squar> Boston. April 12. TERMS OF THE FARMER. 0^ Published every Saturday, at Three Dollaj per annum, payable at the end of the year — but tho who pay within snii/ dat/s from the time of subscribii will he entitled to a deduction of Fifty Cf.nts. (f^ No paper will be discontinued (unless at tl discretion of the Publisher) until arrearages are paid. (f^ Agents who procure seven subscribers, and bi come responsible for the payment, will be entitled to copy gratis, and in the same proportion for a largi number. arg. NEW ENGLAND FAliMER. PUBLISHED BY THOMAS W. SHKPARD, ROGERS' BUILDINGS, CON'GRESS STREET, (HOUIITH DOOR KROM STATE STREET.) Vol. I. BOSTON, SATURDAY, APRIL 26, ]V,2:i. No. 30 FACTS ANT) OBSKRVATIONS RELATING TO jRlCULTURE & DOMESTIC ECONOMY BY THE F.DITOR. ^^ ON FOREST TREES. Ai Irees both for timber and fuel have be- uio scarce in many parts of the country, it is iie time to pay a more particular attention to .? jireservation of wood lots and the planting forest trees than we have heretofore. We lall, therefore, offer some desultory remarks this topic, premising, that as our object is lUij, wc shad! not waste our time, nor that of | readers, by exhibiting models of labored t empty phraseology What we wish is to understood, and if we obtain the approbation farmers, r.e shall mind the idle wind of cviti- carpers no more than the humming of a mble bee that " wheels his droning lliglit'* im one head of clover to another. And tirst : shall say something in addition to what we re formerly said on the subject of planthg es, which will apply as well to forest trtes to fruit trees. tn our opinion the Rock Maple, or Sugar pie, is, on many accounts, and in many silu- Dns, to be preferred to any tree which Is ipted to our soil and climate. For fuel, it is rcely, if at all, inferior to walnut, and the ae of its sap or juice is too well known, aid highly appreciated to require a syllable In favor. We wish the borders of all our higl- I'S, where this tree will grow, (and it wJl w in almost any soil except a mere swamp a dry sandy waste) might be adorned with beautiful and useful tree. But it will be IJbr those who undertake to plant tlws, as 1 as all other trees, to make thoroi(?h and rect work of it. There is nothing ii which te makes greater waste, or negligence pun- !S the person who is guilty of it, in a more implary manner than in the planting of trees. hat kind of labor is not well done, it had :er be altogether omitted. If you half plant ee, your soil is cumbered, perhaps for years, 1 a half alive stock, a monument of the indo- le and bad husbandry of the owner of the raises. We would as lief see dilapidated i doors, rotten fences but three and an half : high, or holes of broken windows half stop- with the ragged remnants of old petticoats, ankered, worm eaten, blasted fruit or forest s, dying by inches about a farmer's home d. If a tree is badly set out, or itunted I)y anagemenl, when in its infancy, no subse- nt art or attention will ever make it thrive, jrefore I tell you again and again, what you lo, do well ; for otherwise you may as well lothing. You will then please to proceed l)rding to our directions, page 301, unless have some better method of your own. if vou have a better method please to com- lica'te it for the New England Farmer, and ishall be happy to give it to the public, to- ler with the name of the author, in our best > o( r APiTAL printing. j'here are many sorts of Maples enumerated iolanisls, but the only kind which we should |k it expedient to cultivate is the Acer Sac- cliarinum, rock maple, or sugar maple. ThiS| kind of tree bears transplanting better than al- most any other. It is true, we believe, in gen- eral, that it is better to take trees for planting Irom a nursery than from a forest. An able writer in the Massachusetts Agricultural Repos- itory, vol. V, p. 3G, affirms that " the practice I cf transplanting trees from our forests, of six or ten years growth, robbed as they must be of the greater portion of their fibrous roots, and sud- (ioidy exposed to a soil and air to which they have been unaccustomed, cannot be too much rep- robated.'' The maple tree, however, will suc- ceed better than almost any other under such treatment. All sorts of maple may, likewise, be propagated by cuttings. And if they be cut from the trees before the buds begin to swell, and before the ground be fit to receive them, they may be wrapped in moss, and put in a cool place, where they m.ay be kept a month or five weeks without injury. These trees may also be raised by sowing the seeds, commonly called keys.* In clearing land it is customary to reserve or leave standing some of these trees, especially if the land is intended for pasture. This may be a good practice, though it is not without in- conveniences and danger. The heavy tops, exuberant foliage and long trunks of these trees expose them very much to the wind, and they are frequently blown over, turning up with their robts a large portion of the surface of the soil. From this cause it is often dangerous to permit cattle to range among maple trees, which nlitained their growth in a forest, and are after- wards ex-posed in opca land to the gusts of wind which so frequently accompany showers in the summer months. It is better, in clearing land, to leave small maples, or to protect and rear a second growth, than to undertake to preserve the ancient tenants of the forests. Trees which have ever been accustomed to free currents of air vill put forth roots adapted to their expo- sure Twenty or thirty trees to an acre of pas- ture will do but little injury to the grass, will afford a shade and shelter grateful and beneficial to tattle, and, six or eight acres thus stocked wiffi rock maple trees, will afford a Valuable sugar orchard. Mr. Bordley, in speaking of th«se trees says — " A grove of them, two or three acres, would give comfortable shady walk> anl sugar for family use ; the making vvhereot wculd require but a short time, and be an en- tertaining harvest. The trees 30 feet apart, ar< above 48 on an acre ; which at a low reck- oning would yield 200 lbs. of sugar an acre, de- ducting only a tritle, not so much for labor as for a short attention in the leisure month of Fekuary.j From seeds it may be 20 years be- fore the trees yield much sugar, but they soon form a delightful shady grove, and they grow readily from seeds. Instead of 48 trees there may be 48 clumps of three or more sugar ma- ples in each clump. Sugar maples growing iu fields, uncrowded, give 7 lbs. of sugar a tree ; then clumps of four trees may yield 24 lbs. a < * Deane'a N. E. Farmer, Wells & Lilly's ed. p. 263. t March and April, in New England, clump i and 48 such clumps may be reckoned to give 1150 to 1300 lbs. f^rom an acre.'"* We believe Mr. Rordley has made a large al- lowance of sugar in his calculations, and he says nothing of the fuel for boiling the sap ; but still a sugar-lot may be made sufliciently ] • fit- able to become an object worthy cf attention. And it should not be forgotten that the rock ma- ple not only pays its annual tribute, in a deli- cious and wholesome product, but at the end of its term yields a more valuable species of fire- wood than almost any tree of the American forest. Oak. — Mr. Miller says " Oaks are best pro- duced from the acorns in the places where the trees tire to remain ; because those which are transplanted will not grow to so large a size, nor remain sound so long."! The author of the Agricultural Report of Scotland says, "Trees may be raised by sowing seeds on the sprtt where they are to grow. There are now ma- ny promising oaks among the plantations at Gartmore, which have sprung f'rom the acorn dibbled into soil altogether unimproved."' A- gain, he observes, "• It is the opinion of physi- ologists, that trees have that portion of their nourishment, which they derive from the soil, conveyed to thtm by their minute fibres, which run in every direction from the root, called the tap-root, proceeding downwards in a perpendi- cular direction, and the use of which is to sup- port the tree against the violence of the winds, in removing any tree from its first situation, some injury must be done to these fibres, and es- pecially to the tap root ; and the oftener the tree is removed the greater will be this injury. In this respect, a tree, which is jiermitted to grow in its original site has an advantage over the transplanted tree. In the same view, a plant taken from the seed bed, and planted but once, (instead of suffering a first transplantation to the nursery, and then a second into a planta- tion,) will surely have the best chance of suc- cess. And where is the impracticability of raising such plants 1 If the nursery man will only sow his acorns in drills, sufBciently wide to admit of hoeing, and thin the plants the first and second years after they have come up, by removing the more unpromising ones, he can by the third year furnish plants of suflicient growth, that have suffered no previous injury by removal from the seed-bed. Still, however, there appears to be something contrary to na- ture in removing a tree from the spot in which it had its origin."^ This, however, must fre- quently be done from necessity, and if due care is taken in transplanting a young tree, but little if any injury is received by the tree which is removed. Some writers, however, maintain that two or three times transplanting a tree is necessary to give it a fair start. Every root and fibre, they say, which is cut oft" in order to pre- pare a tree for transplanting is succeeded by several roots and fibres, \hf. number of vegetable mouths, by which the plant procures food from * Bordley's Husbandry, p. 4. t Deane's N. E. Farmer, Ai U Oal: X Agricultural Report of Scotland. 306 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. the soil is thus increased, and a more rapid and viarorous growtli is ihc cousequencc. But in addition to the authority above quoted in oppo- sition to the theory ofdi^^ging up trees and cut- tino- off tiieir roots in order to make them thrive more ahund.iatiy, we beg leave to cite the ex- ample o[ nature. Trees planted b_\ her hand in forests which have never been pervaded by human foot steps, iiavc, of course, never been transplanted, but yet exhibit the largest and moJ perfect specimens of their kiiid-^. The acorns for planting oaks should be taken from the largest and most thrifty trees. They may be gathered as soon as they fall in autumn, and kept in a box or boxes of sand till the Ibl- lowing spring Then open them and plant such as have sprouted, allowing no time for the sprouts to dry. TO THE EDITOR OF THE NEW EXGLAVH FARMER. I here enclose a treat, a literal transh.'.ion of an ancient fragment, which I wish to see versi- fied* and published in thy paper. During the summer of 1813, I was in Philadelphia, and hearing of a curious old German book called Archiineiks' Work Shop, after some trouble, I obtained the loan of it for some months. It was an uncommonly large folio, printed in Nimme- guen, in I6GI. It was principallv composed of plates, of which there were upwards of three hundred. The language was obsolete German und Latin, with some Greek, and required the study of the most learned men in the city to read it. The plates were intelligible, and it appeared to really be the work of Archimedes. There were drawings of various kinds of Ma- chinery, which he took in travelling through Egypt, such as Joseph's Well, 300 feet deep, and 600 wide, cut through a rock, with winding stairs, and water drawn tVom one reservoir to another by screws. He said that at the huildmg of Thebes the sciences were better understood than in his time. The learned Divines were anxious to know his religion, or ideas of the Snprcnic Being ; therefore by resorting to old f^exicons the enclosed translation was made. — There is no imposition — it is genuine. I wish 1o see it versified, and published in your paper, in order to show the ideas of this eminent phi- losopher with regard to the Supreme Being, and the necessity of labor. SAMUEL PRESTON. Stockport, Pa. April 3, 1823. A LITERAL TRANSI^TION OF ARCIIIMEDES' HYMN ON THF. STR.UCTURE OF GOd's WORKMANSHIP. 1. Ihe great God hath drawn in -wisdom the high arched circumference of the world ; 2. And lia3 by his knowledge ordered every thing one against the oilier. 3. He has placed water against the land ; the hill against the dale ; 4. And, indeed, without any trouble or labor of his bands. .'j. Soon as he spaltc the word was every thing com- pleted, which he designed ; 6. And in so masterly a manner, that whosoever thinks of it is astonished and lost in wonder. * We hope our friend will excuse us for not attempt- ing to versify the sentiments of Archimedes. We be- lieve the ideas of the author can be more exactly given in prose than in verse ; besides, we have not leisure, at present, to give them a metrical form. If any of our friends or correspondents will clothe them in a poetical garb, we shall eeteem it a favor. 7. But as he himself first upreared this globe, b. So has he also implanted a part of the godhead in man, 9. As the image out of which he himself looks, and sends forth rays of his power from his eyes. 10. Hence the earthly man, he whose origin is clay, is so divinely enlightened and celestially exalted, 11. That he, soaring after his Creator, obtains the spirit of wisdom, and brings to the light of day many of the works of art. 12. Thus has God created this out-wnrk of the world, with its appurtenances, and beautifully ornament- ed all things. 13. So man builds in the world no otherwise than as if he were a journeyman in God's great work shop. 14. He searches heights and depths, how hills and vaJ- lies arrange themselves, in wonderful and uninter- rupted continuation, surrounding one another, even as the elm and the vine. 15. His omniscient mind compels the drought and mois- ture to do whatsoever he commands them. 16. Nevertheless, for all things which man can per- form, there is required time and pains. 17. These things cannot be immediately performed. 18. What God can effect by his command will not forthwith be done by the mere word of man. 19. Art has her right, she can indeed subdue all things, and what appears impossible, she can, notwith- standing, accomplish. 20. Yet does she require many an hour and great in- dustry, until she seems sure of her aim, according to her wish. 21. The noble palaces in which princes dwell can nev- er be raised while we shun the requisite labor, but will come short of being finished. 22. Without an unwearied hand the artist will never acquire glory. 23. The floods which pour their water? into the deep vallies are not by nature accustomed to flow up hill; 24. But obedient to the power of art, which forces them towards the heavens, they spring, as it were, to the clouds, from the lowest depths. 23. Yet, nothing is done without toil. The strong cur- rent of water must, as it were, be compelled by computation, by number, weight and measure, which docs not err in the least, and by much man- ual labor to ascend aloft. 26. How all these things arc to be pcrforracd, accord- ing to art, is here notified to be seen in this Book ; in it are produced to view the rudiments o;" those arts, which Europe keeps concealed. It appears that when Archimedes wrole this book he was in Egypt. The hymn was in 26 stanzas, in long lines. TO THE r.niTOR OF THE NEW ENGLAND FARMIR. I have known the following experiment ried for the purpose of killing bushes and improving worn out land, and the result has much nore than equalled the anticipations of the owier. Should you deem this worthy of an inserion in your paper, yoif are at liberty to make that use of it ; otherwise you may dispose of ii as you do of other useless communications. Ire- vious to the season of 1818, the bushes, on a lot, containing about three and an half acres, had been mowed, annually, for three or lonr year?, without perceptibly diminishing tleir number. During the May of this season, about a bushel of plaister to an acre was sowed on the whole lot. Towards the last of June clover began to make its appearance among the glass and bushes, and wherever the bushes were t'>r- merly the largest, the clover grew, and .siill continues to grow rankest. Notwithstanding cattle ran in the lot several days in June, ly the middle of July it afforded a crop of the first year's growth of bushes and clover, equal in value to the profit of either of the ten precel- ing years. Since then, the crops have contini- ed to increase both in quality and quantity, and the bushes are now almost exterminated. Th killing of the bushes with much less labor ar expense than in any other way with which I a acquainted, is not the only advantage derive from this method of improving pastures ; tl shrub apple trees which abound in almost r old pastures can, by engrafting them and kee ing cattle out of the lot, easily be made thrift and soon, bearing trees, which has been dci in the above case. As circumstances pcin nearly a correct estimate of the improven.c in the value of the mowed crop, 1 will jUi that ten years since this lot was leased for thr. dollars, and that the present owner has been ■ fered twenty five dollars a year for the l the two last years; thus affording an incr. ,i of profit of more than eight to one. This h been effected with less th.-ui one load of manu and but two dressings of plaister. Should ai one object to trying this experiment even on small scale, on account of his land's being i. bushy, I can assure him that some part of tl lot would, a few years since, compare with I worst. The stones, except the moat promiin ; will gradually disappear by the rotting of ( fa'len growth, and the land becomes much nn smooth, than most people would suppose at 1 first thought. A similar experiment has be cimmenced on a lot of twenty acres, and wi a prospect as yet of as complete success as tke former case. From experience I have be iiduced to believe that mowing lands witb^ iMting cattle on them at all, is the chiapest veil as the most effectual way to kill bu?h aid frequently far more profitable. No one c (oubt for a moment but that feeding is to bu ts what weeding is to corn, and that the clu- J pasture is fed the less the obstruction is to i growth of the bushes, as they are always I untouched. ANONYMOls April 16, 1823. FOR THE KEW ENGLAND FARMER. Mr. Fessf.nden — 1 have seen in your exc lent paper, the use of Lime often highly recc mended to the practical farmer as a manu It is said to he very useful in order to preps green or long manure for immediate u Would it not confer a favor on your patrons, some one, who is acquainted with the use i operation of lime, would communicate thron the medium of your paper, the manner and t(f quantity which should be mixed with a load K- green manure, and also how long after the m'j:- ture before the straw and stubble will be 'V^ composed and fit for use ? Ii A SUBSCRier.R IV Li~cermore, Maine, April 19, 1823. • FOR THE NEW ENGLAND FARMER. . I have noticed with satisfaction the remai ' of my venerable worthy friend. Col. T. Pick' ing, respecting the strength of Timber, in I 32 of the New England Farmer. The strenf" and duration of timber are certainly an interc ing subject to farmers ; and as the lands il, cleared up, and timber becoming scarce, it v'f become more so. S It is not a subject that will admit of matl' matical demonstration ; observations and exp iraents are all the evidence that we can ha As I have formerly been accustomed to work) in wood, and from an early period of life p ' attention to the subject, and the observati' NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 307 111 directions of men of more age and experi- icf, I make n few remarUs in hopes it may in- jce others to communicate more full and Cor- el information. >ince my memory, there was living in the iighborhood of the place of my nativity. Sucks County, Pa.) a very worthy and respec- .ble character whose name was Ai.ena.nder ROWN. He was more curious, particular, and sact in every thing he did, or had done, than ly other man. He gave rise to a saying More nice than wise, like Alexander Brown." In his early days, before saw mills were e- jcted, his business was to go about >vitli a com- iny of hands, and do the sawing for the biiild- gs, with whip saws. A large landed potrimo- f falling to him, he cleared up several t'arms his sons, and erected several substantial lildings. His life was more devoted to exper- Qcnts than lucrative speculations. He used to y that the nerves and strength of old trees, ke those of old men, began to fail gradually, any years before they (lied ; and that for all s buildings or fences he only took such tim- ;r as he termed in the vigor and prime ot le ; and all his timber for fences, or other es, he would have fell in February, when irdest tVozen, saying then there was the least p in the pores to corrode and rot the wood, e never would suffer a post set in the ground ccept top end down ; but said posts split out ' the same cut, set with the top end in the ound, would last three or four times as long buts down. In splitting the posts, if any .n too small at the top to set in the ground, he ould not use them as posts. In making fences, ery rail must be put heart side up, and this ve rise to another saying, viz: "As durable Alexander Brown's fences." He died at a ry advanced age, during the revolutionary ar, highly esteemed as a truly honest and use- I man, having been for many years considered the oracle or pattern for all the best farmers the circle of his particular acquaintance. The next man I shall mention of graat ob- rvation and experience in the strength and iration of timber, is Tho.v.^s Ellicott, noted the most ingenious Millwright of his time. 'ith him I was intimately acquainted ; he lol- wed building and repairing mills and waggons ja large scale, successively, for forty years. have felled timber for his purposes. As to le proper season, he was a disciple of Al- iander Brown. White oak timber, for wag- ons or mills, was all felled in February, when rdest frozen. His rule to select the strong- it and solidest wood was to cut into the trees ]d take those of the largest growths. If by itting in, the growths near the bark were nailer than the others, he considered the ood declining, and rejected such trees. He ever used more than about twelve feet of the Dt for waggon wheels ; then generally came saw log for mill works. His better mode of asoning his timber for the most strong dura- le work, was, at first, soak it three months in pond of water, to take out the sap, and pre- ent what they call " powder posting," or being aten with small worms. Such was the prac- ce of Thomas Ellicott, founded on accurate bservation and extensive experience. He e?er would cut timber for his business, only 'hen hardest frozen in the winter, except nail tough white ash, for Cradle fingers. He found, by experience, that kind of wood tem- pered best for that purpose, if cut down when full of sap, and the baik loose. As perha|)S every farmer may not know bow to make cradle fingers in the best and readiest manner, to the exact crt ok of the scythe, I will give the simple process. Lay the scythe on a plank or slab, and mark round the back of it with chalk ; bore a row of holes on each side the chalk, nt a proper distance apart, to take in the lingers, when rough shaved out ; put pins in the holes, aud it is the mould to set the lin- gers. Take the but of a small white ash, say lour or six inches diameter, the straighter grain and larger growth the better; split it into suit- able pieces, carefully marking exactly on the ends which side was next the heart ; then shave lliem down square, nearly to the size, so as by the square they will all bcml exactly from the heart, for all such young wood naturally in- clines to spring from the heart. Make a tire of hot embers and ashes by the water — run them in the tire, and dip them in the water and tire alternately until they are heated through. The3' will then be very limber to put in the mould. As soon as they are dried through, they are fit for use, and if properly treated will never incline to spring back — will be easier and smoother dressed than crooked stuff, and being straight grained are stronger and may be dressed smaller. 1 now wish to hear a statement of the nature and properties of Timber in the Eastern States, for I believe there is a diCTerence in the nature of timber in different ages and climates. SAMUEL PRESTON. Stockport, Pa. April 10, 1823. From the American Fanner. CULTURE OF SWEET POTATOES. Hopkinsrille, Ken. Jan. 30, 1823. J. S. Skinner, Esq. Sir — In the American Farmer, of the 3d inst. I tind an inquiry, as to the kind of manure best adapted to the raising of sweet potatoes, and the best kind of culture, to insure a great crop. I readily agree with the inquirer, that this is a most valuable vegetable, and has been too long very much neglected. Yet I make no preten- sions to answer his inquiries on this subject ; but only to state a few facts, giving a brief de- tail of my own mode of cultivating this root. I will premise that any increase of crop was not ascertained by actual admeasurement, but only by the eye, when viewed in bulk, and a larger root for several years in succession, after my mode had been fairly tried. The first step in the process, is to enclose the lot intended for your sweet potatoe crop to it- self Your ground is, of course, to be next ploughed ; and here I will remark, that for no crop is deep tilth more necessary. When your ground is thus prepared, throw it into ridges, three and a half feet apart, with a large bar share plough, causing the upper points of the two meeting furrows, to come within two or three inches of each orher. On top of these ridges lay your plantings one foot apart, each planting forming a triangle with the two pre- ceding, then cover them with a hoe, pulling up the earth from between the ridges. It is desirable to cover them with rich mcild ; if the planting is embedded in a clay cover. ng, it does not vegetate so quick ; consequently the root is more apt lo |)crish. This riilge, when it is covered, should be as high as a large potaloe hill. This mode of putting in your crop, to- gether with the subsequent culture, will be found, upon trial, to take far less labor than the usual method of making and planting in hills. — The chief of the tillage, until you come to hil- ling, may be done with a light one horse plough. But the greatest saving of labor is in gathering your crop ; which is performed af- ter throwing the vines in a line between the ridges, then willi a plough, throwing one third on each side of each ridge on the vines. Near- ly all the potatoes will be left in the remainder of the ridge, which are to be thrown in baskets, and conveyed immediately to your potatoe cel- lar, which ought to be uncovered every day un- til they are done s\veating. The chief advantage, however, which I pro- mise myself is the su)>sequent use 1 make of my potatoe lot. Those who prefer the old mode of management, may still pursue it, and derive the same advantage in giving their ground an aptitude for the growth of this root. Nothing is necessary to insure an annual increase of crop, the seasons being equal, than as soon as vou get your potatoes oil the ground to turn in your hogs intended lor slaughter, and there to fatten them until they are ready for slaughter. I have known a good crop made where this plan had been pursued in a very dry season, when not a single neighbor, without it, made any. If you deem the foregoing worthy of being presented to your correspondents, you are at liberty to do so. Your's, &c. A. Z. NQT-p.^_you will perceive that I have not at- tempted any reasoning on the foregoing ; no doubt, the chief benefit is by the deep rooting of the hogs, aiid consequent action of frost upon the earth — moreover, some manure is deposited. TO REMOVE VERMIN FROM CATTLE. I have found that a small decoction of tobac- co, washed over a beast infested with vermin, will generally drive them away ; it sometimes makes the beast very sick for a short time. But a better remedy is to mix plenty of strongf Scotch snuftin train oil, and rub the back and neck of the creature with it, which will eHec- tually kill or drive away all vermin from a quadruped. MIDDLESEX. To the EdiloTs of the A". Y. Statesman. Danvers, (Ms.) March 30, 1823. 1 observed in your paper of Oct. last a para- graph from a Cincinnati correspondent respect- ing the cultivation of woad. I have the last year cultivated this plant on about five acres, and had three good crops, considering the sea- son, the autumn being dry We use it with in- digo upon our best wool. I see no good reason why the indigo shrub will not thrive here, and perhaps it may be used green or dried by our dyers in cases of necessity. Our superfine merino wool is as good as any from Spain, and 1 have seen better and softer cloth made from American wool than some im- ported, at gl,25. How to extract poison from a rusty nail. — Take a bean, and after splitting it apply one half (flat side) to the wound, bind it on, let it remain till it comes off itself, and the poison will be ex- tracted aud the wound healed. 308 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. PEPCRIPTION OF A imrsfl FOR PF.STROYING CVTERl'ILLARS' NESTS. To the CorresponJiii? f-ecrelary of the Massachusetts Agrricultural SocUty. Dear Sir— For the last three or fovir years, we have here had very few caterpillars. Last week 1 observed an increased number, though not many, on my young apple tree?. How to destroy them most easily, was a question which occurred as often as I have seen orchards in- fested with them : while I always considered it disgraceful to a tarmer to sufler his trees to be stripped of their leaves, and their fruit, for that season at least, to be destroyed; seeing it was very practicable to get rid of them, and with- out much trouble, by crushing ihein, when small, with the fingers. This was my father's mode, when I was a boy. The same loug, light ladders, which served in autumn in gath- ering his winter fruit by liand, enabled one to come at most of the caterpillars' nests in the spring. On tliis effectual example 1 have my- self practised, singe I became a farmer. Some over delicate persons might object to this mode : but it is really far less oflensive than the bare 1 sight of large and numerous nests with which] apple trees are sometimes filled. And if the operation be performed early, when the cater- pillars are only from a quarter to a half an inch long, the operator (man or boy) will feel no repugnance to the process. But in full grown trees, some nests towards the extremities of their small limbs would escape, because not ac- cessible by ladders. A narrow brush, formed with small bunches of bristles in a single row, I once thought might reach and destroy them ; but it was not found eiTectual nor convenient. Last Saturday morning the idea of the proper kind of brush occurred to me, and in the fore- noon 1 tried it with complete success. I presume every farmer has observed, that the clusters of eggs producing caterpillars, are laid round the slender twigs of the apple tree and wild cherry, and effectually guarded by a gummy covering, undl vegetation commences in the ensuing spring. When first hatched, the worms appear about the eighth of an inch long. The same warmth in the air which opens the buds, hatches the catterpillars to feed on the embryo leaves. Their first object is to pro- vide for themselves a tent for shelter, in their new state, against the inclemencies of the weather. For this purpose, they crawl to a small fork of a limb, where the branches ibrm a sharp angle ; and there spin and weave a web with which they surround it, and where they are secure against undue cold and heat and rain. Uy this small white web they are dis- covered, and are then most easily destroyed. Hut the clusters of eggs are not all hatched at the same lime. According to their situation for warmth or coolness, they are hatched some days earlier or later. At the distance, there- fore, of a week or ten days after the first visit, an orchard should be again inspected, and all the latter broods destroyed. If neglected in this first state, they soon, by their growth, become straitened for room ; and having also consumed the nearest forage, they march and take a new station, and there ibrm a new and more ample tent. By such neglect the mischief of their ravages is increased, and they are with more difficulty destroyed. The efficient and convenient instrument above mentioned, for this work, is nothing more than a common bottle brush fastened on the end of a pole. Havir.g an old one in ray house, I was enabled to make the experiment on the day when the idea of so applying it occurred to me. This brush is made of hogs bristles, in- troduced between two stilT wires closely twist- ed : and being convenient in cleaning the in- sides of bottles, is probably familiarly known whenever liciuors are bottled. For the inform- ation of others, 1 will mention, that a piece of wire full one tenth of an inch in diameter, about three feet long, doubled, and leaving a small loop in the middle, is closely twisted for the length of about eight or ten inches from the loop ; and then the bristles, being introduced between the remainder of the branches of the wire, and these closely twisted upon them, the bristles are immovably fixed ; and thus form (after being uniformly sheared) a cylindrical brush about six inches long and two and a half in diameter. To fasten this conveniently to a pole, with a small gouge I made a groove about seven or eight inches long at the small end of the pole, in which nearly all the handle (the naked portion of the twisted wire) of the brush was laid, and bound on with three strings. In using the brush, press it on the small nest, and turning the pole in the hand, the web is en- tangled with the bristles, and removed: other- wise, you rub the fork of the limb, inside and outside, with a brush, when nest and worms are surely killed or brought down. That the ex- perimenter may see its mode of operation, he may apply the brush with his hand to a nest within his reach. Spruce poles are eligible, because that wood is light and stiff. For my small trees, 1 found a common bean pole (used for running beans to climb on) six or seven feet long, sutlicient : and for them a longer pole would be inconvenient. For taller trees, poles proportionably long must be provided. If you are satisfied, by my account, of the utility of this simple instrument for destroying caterpillars, j'ou m.ay think it proper immedi- ately to make it publicly known. Should the description be more minute than is requisite for communicating a clear idea of it, and its appli- cation, you will abridge it. With very great respect and esteem. «" fove 1 am, dear Sir, truly vours, TIMOTHY PICKERING. The following remarks on the subject of Agriculture are from the New York Statesman. They were occa- sioned by an attempt to repeal certain acts by the New York Legislature, making appropriations out of the treasury for the promotion of Agriculture. We have never entertained but one view of the expediency of the appropriations heretofore made lor the encouragement of agriculturo ; and that has been decidedly in favor of the lib- eral policy of the government. The agricultu- ral Societies, instituted in the several counties of the state, in consequence of the munificence of former legislatures, have already been of es- sential service to the community, and results still more important may be looked for in a lew years, if these valuable institutions shall continue to receive the patronage and support of the state. We do not hazard much in assert- ing, that greater advances have been made in the cultivation of the lands, in the breed of cat- tle and horses, and in domestic manufactures, since the establishment of the Board of Agri- culture and Agricultural Societies, than had be« tor the twenty years previous. '''' In many parts of the state, the face of tl '■ , country has assumed an entirely different i ^ pcct. A generous emulation has been excl ""' cd among the farmers. Agricultural scienc ^, improvements in rural implements, the succei ' ful experiments of others in introducing ne ■' modes of tillage, new varieties of vegetabl , and fruits, and generally, the most etfecto ^^ means of increasing the productiveness of tl '•'' earth with the least labor and expense, hai *!' become the common topics of conversation. ' !' spirit of inquiry has gone forth ; antiquated ai laborious modes of cultivation have been e amined and exploded ; prejudices which hadb come inveterate by long usage hare been co reeled ; and a system of rural philosophy ai domestic economy has been introduced. Independent of the immediate benefit to a ricullure, arising from the influence of the (in societies, they have had a salutary effect on tl community by increasing the general stock knowledge. A vast body of useful informatio topographical and statistical, has been wide circulated through the state, in books, pai phlets, anniversary addresses, reports, ai newspaper essays. The varieties of soil, tl productions, and resources of the several cou tics of the state are much better understoo Farmers have become more accustomed torea retlect, and reason on subjects relating to tbe|ek> profession ; and the general mass of intelligeni has been greatly augmented. The competition excited by annual cxhil tions and awards ol premiums has led to habi of greater activity and industry in both sexi All classes have been stimulated by a laudab ambition to excel in agricultural knowledge ai skill, in rural wealth and rustic honors. Catt Shows and Fairs are regarded, not as mere ho days for relaxation from labors and as seasons festivity, but as the fields of fame, where tl farmer contests the rewards of ingenuity, indo try, and superior merit, and wins for his bro a wreath of victory, not less honorable, and f; more useful to society, than the bay of tl scholar, or the laurel of the soldier. The I brics of the housewife, and the products of tb husbandman are on these occasions exhibited i triumph, and the fatigues of labor in some di, gree compensated by the meed of public di tinction and applause. Another benefit derived from the institution ,: of these societies has been the increased popi, larity of agricultural pursuits. The professici;., of the farmer has been rendered more respei table and more fashionable than formerly. Me of talents and of wealth have turned their al tenlion to agriculture, and are now engaged ii, experiments for the promotion and improve' ment of the science. The efforts of thesjt' wealthy and public spirited individuals hav if already been attended with the happiest effects V We hare been surprised that the members tJJ. our legislature, with the experience of othe countries and other states as well as that of ou own before them, should again attempt the abc i lition of societies, from which such obvious an important advantages have been derived. Th' proposition is the more singular at this time when Agricultural Schools have been projected the objects of which are in most respects simi lar to those of the institutions now in existence tei if V & NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 309 e were happy to see new plans proposed )• the benefit of the agricultural interest. — jey would doubtless be attended with great actical utility. Much has been done by the 1 fi rernment for the other interests of the com- ■1(1 mity. Scientific, literary, and other institu- ins have been munificently endowed and lib- H ■■'« '; 0 ally patronized ; while, till lately, very little Wa| s been done for agriculture, and it is now ieti oposed to withhold even that pittance. A ■licy so short-sighted and narrow in its views juld seriously injure the reputation which the ite has acquired both at home and abroad, for leJi :ing foremost in the great system of internal fj iprovements, now rapidly extending through- it the country. 01 xi lag MUSTARD, HOW MIXED. Boil a sufticient quantity of horse radish in best white wine vinegar, add to it half as uch mountain or good raisin wine, and a little luble refined sugar ; then make it up to a •oper consistency with the best unadulterated urhara flour of mustard, stop it up close, and will keep for years. Mustard thus made has 1 inconceivably fine spirit and flavor. Com- on keeping mustard may be made by only bstituting water for the vinegar, with or with- it garlic, and a little salt. The flour of mus- rd should be gradually mixed with the boiling ater or vmegar, to a proper thickness, and bbed perfectly smooth. HOW TO RAISE TURKIES. Plunge the young chick into a vessel of cold ater, the hour, or if that cannot be, the day it hatched. Force it to swallow one whole pep- !r corn, then return it to its mother. From at time it will become hardy and not fear the Id. When young turkies begin to droop, es- nine carefully the feathers on their rumps, id you will find two or three, whose quill part filled with blood. Upon drawing these the lick recovers, and after requires no more care tan is bestowed on any other poultry. I injurious, but they left the resemblance of a j female shape : the corset on the contrarv pre- sents the waists as regularly round and untaper- , ing as a white load keg. The olden stays 1 re- member were laced with a silken siring, of the size of the finest twine, but the corset requires a cord equalling the bow string of a Kickapoo Chief. The antiquated hoop was of formidable expansion, and when first thrown upon the pub- lic eye created no trivial sensation — but in it- self it was perfectly harmless, there was no com- pression about it ; and the lady abode as safely within its ample circumference as the sentinel in his box. Every dog will have, and every fashion must have its day ; the reign of the corset has endured about as long as the reign of Bonaparte, and like the latter, fatal enough in all conscience. I anticipate the happy period when the fairest portion of the fair creation will step forth unincumbered with slabs of walnut and tiers of whalebone. The constitution of our females must be excellent, to withstand in any tolerable degree the terrible inflictions of the corset eight long hours of every day, or the horrible total of 178,200 minutes in one year. No other animal could survive it. Take the honest ox, and enclose his sides with hoop poles, put an oaken plank beneath him, and gird the whole with a bed-cord, and then demand of him labor. He would labor indeed, but it would be for breath. Splinter and belay a pig in the same way, and a whine might be aspirated, but it would be a whine of expiration. But I fear I am trespassing too violently on your patience, and in pity to you conclude with the old Caledonian motto, " Spero meliora." Yours, G.\LEN. TO ALL r,'HOM IT MAY CO.VCERX. CORSETS. Mrs. Deshang of Bethany in New Jersey, as the mother of three amiable daughters ighly accomplished and beautiful ; the young idies have long been in the habit of lacing as ght as any of their neighbors ; one has become riite infirm and the other two evidently droop. 'he alarmed parent stated the situation of her hildren to her old friend the venerable Dr. -alen of Philadelphia, who soon after the re- eipt of her note, forwarded the following reply. Madam — The case of your charming daugh- srs affects me, and my whole experience may e put in requisition to assist them ; that they 'ere healthy, robust, and fine children, I per- jctly recollect, and that their healths are now npaired may perhaps be solely ascribed to lemselves. Fashion destroys more females ban fevers. From a mistaken notion of better- ig the best work of Heaven, the infatuated lir risk health and even life itself. I deem the orset of the present day to be a perfect en- "ine of torture, and worthy the Inquisitions of roa, and Rome, and infinitely worse than the tays of time gone by. These last be sure were NEW ENGLAND FARMER. SATURDAY, APRIL 26, 1823. TItc Fanncr^s and Gardener''s Remembrancer, APRIL. Pruning Trees. — It is now, we believe, about the right time to prune your fruit trees, and such of your forest trees as it may be worth while to subject to the operation. Col. Picker- ing assures us that his " practice has been to prune in the spring, beginning when the buds have scarcely begun to swell ; and ending be- fore the expansion of the leaves." That is, commonly, in this climate, from about the 10th of April to the middle of May. A writer in the Massachusetts Agricultural Repository, vol. v, p. 121 to 127, accuses N. E. farmers of some very bad management with regard to this de- partment of rural economy. He says " it is a universal practice among the old farmers to mount the tree with a hatchet or bill hook, and hack off" any branch which is in a state of de- cay, or which is misplaced, about six or eight inches from its insertion, leaving a stump to rot, and to operate as a conductor of the water, frost and canker into the mother branch in which it grew, or into the body of the tree according to its situation. This was done originally from an idea that if you cut close to the mother branch, or to the body of the tree, the rot or canker will sieze more readily on its trunk, than if cut at a distance, and that the tree will decay the sooner. This practice has been followed with- out reflection, and without reason by many, but the ercor is so obvious that any man of obser- vafion may see it yearly ; and any one who doubts may satisfy himself in one season of the incorrectness of the practice, by making his experiments on a young free."' This writer advises the orchardist, when he has fixed upon a limb to be lopped off, if it i^ large and heavy, to cut first at some distance from its insertion, to prevent its weight in fal- ling from lacerating the bark of the shoulder, whence your final cut is to be ; because this leaves an opening for water to get under the bark, and cannot easily be healed.* You may now saw the stump close to the branch from which it proceeds with safety; or if it be a por- tion of a branch which is to be lopped ofl", the cut should be down to a sound, healthy, lateral branch, growing from the same limb ; or if the limb to be cut off" proceeds from the body or trunk of the tree, then it should be sawed close to the shaft. The wood in all cases should be smoothed ever, and the edges of the bark care- fully pared with your knife or hatchet, so that the water will run off" the wound. If the cut be made on a side branch, it should be sawed obliquely or slanting, so as to leave no dead wood, or wood to die, and in all cases the cut should be on a sound and healthy part of the tree. Another error, according to the same writer, consists " in the habit of encouraging luxuriant upright branches to the great injury of the nat- ural horizontal fruit-bearing branches ; these are very properly called glutton branches, be- cause they consume the sap, which would oth- erwise go into the lateral and fruit-bearing branches, and in the course of a few years they leave the fruit branches decaying and decayed ; the farmer then resorts to his axe, cuts away the dead and dying wood, and leaves the glutton in full possession of all the nourishment which the roots afl"ord ; but in return this voracious member of the orchard gives no fruit until ma- ny years, and then of an inferior quality. " To prevent this the cultivator should suppress all the stiff", upright shoots the first year they ap- pear, by cutting them off" close to the branch from which they issue, taking care not to leave the shoulder to the shoot, as he will in such case have the same duty to perform again ; but if the shoulder of the glutton be cut away, the sap will be distributed among the lateral fruit bearing branches, which will be kept in vigor, and continue in a healthful fruit-bearing state." Mr. Forsyth, and other writers, give numer- ous and minute directions relative to restoring old and decayed trees ; and where the kind is very valuable, and its fruit uncommonly fine, it may be expedient to be at some pains and ex- pense to prolong the life of a tree which is withering and rotting with age. But we think there is good sense in the following observa- tions by Mr. M'Mahon, who says, " I am not an advocate for much doctoring old, decayed or sickly trees, but the reverse ; therefore re- commend as the preferable way to replace such with young healthy trees, so soon as they shew strong symptoms of decay. Whenever you meet with a tree the fruit of which you esteem, propagate it immediately, whilst in health, by budding or grafting, kc. and if it should after- wards get into a declined state, replace it with * Or, to prevent this, the bark and a part of the wood may be Jint cut on the under rule. .110 one of the same or some other kind."' It i? Said, however, and we believe truly, that a young tree will not flourish in the 'pol wlicre an old one of thp ?ame kind had grown. Suckers should not be sutl'ered to remain from one vcar to another, near the roots nor on Ihe body of the tree. If the tree appears to have a tendency to put forth a redund^ince of wood, the young shoots should be pinched olT while tender, but should not be cut while the sap is flowing, because the hloesom buds may thus be deprived of sap. The gum or natural juice of the tree is the best salve for curing wounds made by pruning ; and it generally eflfects the purpose. liut when the tree is old, and the wound large, an artili- cial covering becomes necessary. Mr. Forsyth's composition of lime, cow dung, wood ashes, and sand is too well known to need a particular deicriplion. This composition, however, is not so highly valued as it was formerly. " It does not," says an English writer, " appear the best calculated, whether laid on in paste, or with a brush, to resist the sun and rain." " Having had," he adds, " to head down several large trees, and conceiving this composition not cal- culated for what 1 thought essential, namely, keeping out the sun, wind and insects, I had part of the trees dressed with this compo- sition and other parts with a composition of pitch, tar, lime, rubbish and sand, boiled to a hard consistence, and laid on hot. In a few months I found Mr. Forsyth's composition partly scaled off, and washed away, and insects harbor- ing under it ; but the tar composition was then, as it is to this day, tirmly adhering over the whole surface of the wound." Another kind of composition, recommended by some writers is composed of rosin, bees wax and turpentine ; and a third of tar, bees wax and red ochre, boiled or simmered together. The proportions for the last mentioned are a pint of tar, a piece of bees wax about as big as an En- glish walnut, with about half a gill of red ochre, stirred info the mixture while boiling or sim- mering. But a writer on fruit trees, whose re- marks may be seen No. 19, page 145, column 5d, of the New England Farmer, declares that he has found by experience turpentine to be in- jurious to trees in Carolina, though he suppos- es in a northern climate it may have no bad effect. This writer recommends " one meas- ure of olive oil, or hog's lard, three do. of mel- ted bees' wax mixed while hot, to be worked at'ter it is cool till sufficiently pliant." Dr. Thacher says, (Orchardist p. 73) " it is prob- able that a composition consisting of clay, tem- jiered with horse dung, will be found of equal utility," that is as useful as a mixture of bees' wax, rosin and turpentine. The author of the Agrictdtural Report of Scotland likewise re- commends as a plaister for wounds in fruit trees '■' a mixture of clay and horse-droppings," and says, " this, as it excludes the action of the air and rain is considered to be equally eiTectual as JMr. Forsyth's composition." CuRRA.NTs. — This shrub is propagated from cuttings, or short pieces, cut in the spring, from shoots ot the lust year ; and in most cases it is best if they liave a joint or two of the former year's wood, at the bold e\ of them. The cut- tings, says Mr. Cobbelt, should have altogether, about sis joints or buds ; and three of them should be underground when planted. The cuts NEW ENGLAND FARiMER. should be performed with a sharp knlfi, so that there may be nothing ragged nor bruised about either wood or bark. It should be trimmed in such a manner that no limbs are allowed to branch out nearer the ground than six inches. Prune the bush every year and keep it thin of wood. The Farmer's Assistant says that •• an acre, planted with currants, and well cultivated, would probably yield, on an average, a quanti ty of fruit sutticicnt to make a thousand gallons of wine yearly. The expense of making the wine does not exceed 60 cents a gallon, and the wine, after having received a little age is worth double that money." AGRICULTURAL PREMIUMS. We perceive with much pleasure, that the different Agricultural Societies in New England appear to be laudably and zealously en»ri»ed in the ^reat objects of their institutions. We should be happy to copy every agricultural notice, and list of premiums, published in the papers which we receive in exchange ; but, in this case, we should Make our papef little more than a reg- ister of proceedings, which are chiefly interesting to candidates for premiums in particular counties. We wish our articles in general to possess general interest, and to be such as claim the attention of every farmer in every part of the Union. When, tlierefore, nolhivg new is proposed as an object for a premium, we shall not, generally speaking, copy the notice. We can, however, assure the gentlemen proposing premiums, that our heart is with them, and our pen and types at their service, to be devoted in any mode consistent with our paramount obligations to the public at large. LITERARY CURIOSITY. The " Curious old German Book,'''' described in a preceding column, by our highly esteemed friend and correspondent from Pennsylvania, should seem to be worthy of the attention of the scholar, philosopher and mathematician. That part of it, however, which con- sists of " obsolete German," we can hardly believe to be the work of Archimedes, who was born at Syracuse, in Sicily, about 2S7 years before the commencement of the Christian era. At the period when Archimedes lived, we apprehend the German language was not known in Syracuse, and we doubt whether Archimedes ever heard of such a language. In the time of the his- torian Tacitus, who was born in the year 57 of the Christian era, the Germans, according to that writer, were not acquainted with the use of letters, and of course a very learned and elaborate treatise could not have been written partly in the German language, more than 300 years previous to that period. We do not pretend even to conjecture how the book in question came into existence. But the following particulars, may, perhaps, assist in tracing the origin of the work. When Constantinople was taken about the middle of the fifteenth century, such writings of Archimedes as existed, together with the commentary of Eutocius, escaped the ravages of the conquerors, and were brought thence into Italy. Here they were found by the famous John MuUer, better known by the appellation Regiomontanus, who carried them into Gcr- mo?i,y, and they were soon afterwards, viz. in 1544, published in folio at Basil, in Greek and Latin, by Hervagius, with a preface by Tliomas Gechauf An edition, in Greek and Latin, in folio, was published by Rivaltus, at Paris, in 1615. Many other editions of the various productions of Archimedes have from time to time been published in Germany, France, and Great Rritaiu, but in the accounts of these editions which we have bccu able to find, we have not seen tht title nor any notice of the book mentioned by Mr. Preston large folio, however, with upwards of 300 plates, coi not be printed in a corner, and probably it ie, at lei in part, what it purports to be, " really the work Archimedes." It is possible that the Greek and La may be the work of Archimedes and his commenat and the " obsolete German" may be the production a German editor. TTie subject appears to be wort of further investigation. Remedy for Swoln Legs and Grease in Horses A writer in the last American F'arraer gives the f lowing as a remedy for horses whose legs have bccoi swoln by violent exercise. Take one pound of nit and half a pound of sulphur, mixed into a mess w molasses. If the disorder is violent, and the legs great swoln, give the animal two balls of this composition twenty-four hours, one at night and another in t morning, for the first two days, and but one every d aficr till the cure is effected. This writer observe '- 1 do not assert that this medicine will cure a confir; ed grease in horses heels, but it will cure an incipie disorder. Be sure never to apply any grease or oh mcut to the horses' heels, nothing but a turnip poultic If the grease be obstinate, nothing but mercury w cure him, thus administered : Give the horse two of Calomel over night, and the next mom a comm alcetic purge. This must be repeated three times, sto ping one or two days between each dose ; after whi' give him the nitre and sulphur balls. This proa will cleanse him thoroughly." Death of Lieut. Commandant IVm. H. Cocke. — T Fox, a vessel commanded by Lieut. Cocke was d( patched by Com. Porter on the 6th of March in Porto Rico on business connected with the expeditio Oi the I'ox's approaching the Moro (a castle moui ing 500 guns) she was fired at, and her commauc killed by a 42 pound shot. The Spanish apologize ; the act, and declare it to have been an unfortunate f cident, and it was observed by Com. Porter in the Ge eral Orders, published on the melancholy occasion, tb " the Captain Central of the Island has given the mi unequivocal proofs of the most sincere regret that t event has taken place." Every possible mark of i spect was paid to the remains of the deceased. Correspondence between Commodore Porter and li Governor of Porto Rice. — A number of letters ha' passed between these personages relating to the ci cumstances attending the death of Lieut. Cocke, should seem by these that the Governor's apology w;! not satisfactory. In a letter from Com. Porter datu March 11, and addressed to the Capt. Gen. of Fori Rico, we find the following observations : '^ I find your coasts lined with troops since my an val here. 1 find reinforcements daily c«ming in, as am informed by your order to protect the iuhabitan i from my resentments. I have found every precautic taken to keep me in profound ignorance of the lamen able occurrence ; but these things were all in vain, saw the insult offered to the flag of my country — I hai satisfied your military commanders that their force despicable compared to that at my disposal, and I ha» convinced the inhabitants that although they are at m mercy, they will not be made answerable for the •. fences of an individual." After some further criminations, Com. Porter obserre! I shall leave the island to-morrow morning with heavy heart, and shall without delay communicate t my government, the melancholy result of my visit here which was intended for the benefit of the civilizeil world in general." Russian Clairris. — The brig Pearl, Capt. Stevens, 0 Boston, was lately ordered off the North West Coast bj the Russian officer, commanding at Norfolk Sound, ki ter leaving the port, the Pearl was boarded by the R» sian frigate Apollo, and documents were presented U Capt. S. declaring the Russian claim to txclu^j\eju risdiction to extend to latitude 51 N. on the Nortl NEW ENGLAND FARMER. .311 ';st coast of America, northward to Bthriiig's Straits, si thence to latitude 27, 50 JN". on tlie Coast of Japan, li tliat all vessels, of whatever nation, caught within y miles, even of those extensive limits, except in ca- J of distress, shall be subject to coufiscatioD, national isels not excepted. African Colony. — It is stated in the Baltimore Morn- '■''m r Chronicle, that the American Colonists on the West ast of Africa, are much annoyed by tlie natives, 10, on the llth of Nov. and 2d of Dec. to the num- r of 1500, attacked them and killed one man, one >man and one boy, and wounded four others. All ;ercourse had been cut off with the natives, and the lonists suffered for provisions, and were alnjost in a ite of starvation. Assistance was ultimately sent from B British schooner Prince Regent, and Capt. Laing gotiated a peace, and a prize schooner of 60 tons was esented to the colonists by the commander of a Co- anbian armed vessel, and it was hoped Ihey would t be again interrupted. « Tread Mill. — An English paper gives the following count of the success of this invention ; " The Tread ills in several of the towns of the Southern and Mid- nd Counties are completely out of work — in other ords where machinery is attached to them for grind- g flour, &.C. the overseers are obliged to kirt laborers, these terrors to evil doers have freightened away the igrants altogether. In jails where there have been irty or forty beggars at a time there are now but two three. The consequence has been a great reduc- jn of prison expense, and a total removal o( that lisauce — begging in the streets." Improvtd Steam Engine. — .i letter has been receiv- 1 in Newburyport from Mr. Jacob Perkins, formerly that place, in which he states that he had just made iai of his steam engine, and that its success was fully inal to his expectations. We are informed (says the last number of the Lon- m Quarterly Review) on good authority, that in 18 onths ending in August last, not fewer than four hnn- ed slave ships had departed from the western coast Africa, carrying away upwards of 100,000 slaves ; 'ai ly one half of these were French, the rest mostly irtnguese. A merchant in London, Simon Bradstreet, offers, hi le London Morning Chronicle, £100 as an Immediate )ntribuLion to the Spanish cause, and the same sum inually so long as the war lasts, should Great Britain 2Come the ally of Spain. The Rev. Dr. Gardner, of this city, has been chosen » deliver the next Artillery Election Sermon. Letters sent hy Steam Beats. — By instructions from le Post Master General, all letters and packets of let- rs, conveyed by steam boats, are to be charged the sune rates of postage as letters conveyed over post aads. The Governor of Louisiana has put his veto on a bill fhich had passed the Legislature, to prevent Usury. — le says, in his objections, that money is a merchanta- le article, and ought to be used as such. Honey. — A tree was lately opened near Dennis' ireek, Cape May county, N. J. 5 1-2 feet in circum- erence, that was found to contain a honey-comb ex- ending 18 feet in length, completely filled with hon- ■j: and a paper published at Bridgetown, in the same State, on the 22d Feb. last, says — " A stick of log- cood was split open a few days since, at the shop of rtessrs. Johnston and Shcppard, in this town, in the leart of which was found a honey-comb, fifteen inches ong, containing honey of an excellent flavor and !n a lerfect state of preservation — the comb closely envel- jped on all sides with solid timber. How many years lave passed since the honey was thus deposited, it is mpossible now to discover."' The Mobile Commercial Register states, that within liirteen months the increase of buildings at that place, Haas been equal to one hundred per cent, in point of 'Value, and that the price of building lota bad advanced still jHore, ^ Sinf(^tlar Discovery. — The Detroit Gazette states lliat a manuscript volume of between three and four hundred pages, was lately discovered by Col. Edwards of that place, under one of his buildings. The book is iu a tolerable state of preservation, and is a fine speci- men of penmanship. I'he characters in which it is written are unknown. They are neither Hebrew, Greek nor Saxon, and the only parts of it hitherto iii- ti lligible are a few Latin quotation.*. It is deposited in the Gazette office for the inspection of the curious. Direct from Com. Porlcr^s Squadron. — The schr. Gleaner, Saunders, 19 days from New Orleans, was boarded on the 10th April, Key West bearing N. dis- tant 6 miles, by a boat from Com. Porter's squadron. The boarding officer informed Capt. Saunders, that the steam brig Sea Gull, the sloop of war Peacock, and the rest of the fleet were lying in Port Allen, Key West ; all well. A British sloop of war had captured a pirat- ical vessel, with 60 men, commanded by the notorious Lafitte, who was killed in the action. The pirates hoisted the bloody flag, and cried no quarters — and none were shown, most of them having been killed. Capt. S. has letters from Com. Porter to his friends in the United States. — -Vsw York Er. Post. We understand, says the N. Y. American, from a respectable source in Cuba, that news had been re- ceived there from Jamaica, on which great reliance was placed, announcing that the former island was im- mediately to'be taken possession of by the British squad- ron, under the command of Com. Owen. Purifying Furnace. — Mr. Ralph Bulkley, of New York, has presented a memorial to the Corporation for erecting small purifying furnaces over sewers and ca- nals, which with small coal fires will destroy the foul air and greatly contribute to the health of the city, and add to the value of property in the neighborhood of these sewers. — — Piracies. — The editor of the Philadelphia United States' Gazette has had the patience to keep a journal of the piracies committed since the cessation of hos- tilities between the American government and Great Britain, in 1812. The catalogue contains 3002 ! BELLFOUNDER, Y!ie Wonderful J^^orfolk Trotter, imported July 1822, from England, WILL STAND THIS SEASON, 1823, At Twenty Dollars, and One Dollar the Groom. The money to be paid to the Groom at Covering. THIS celebrated Horse is a bright bay, with black legs, standing 15 hands high ; his superior blood, symmetry and action excel those of every other trotting Stallion. He is allowed by the best judges in Norfolk to be the fastest and best bred Horse ever sent out of that County. He has proved himself a sure foal getter, and his Stock for size and substance are not to be sur- passed ; they are selling at the highest prices of any Horses in Norfolk. BELLFOUNDER was got by that well known, fast and high formed Trotter, Old Bellfocndeb, out of Velocity, which trotted on the Norwich road, in 1806, Sixteen miles in one hour, and though she broke fifteen times into a gallop, and as often turned round, won her match. In 1808 she trotted Twenty-eight miles in one hour and forty-seven minutes, and has also done many other great performances against time. BELLFOUNDER, at five years old, trotted Tuo miles in six minutes, and in the following year was matched for 200 guineas to trot A''ine miles in thirty minutes, and be won easily by thirty-two seconds. His owner shortly after challenged to perform with him Sev- enteen miles and a half in one hour, but it was not ac- cepted. He has since never been saddled or matched. Old BELLFonNDER was a true descendant from the original blood of the Fireaways, which breed of Horses stands unrivalled, either in this or any other Nation. BELLFOUNDER is strongly recommended to the public by the subscriber, as combining more useful properties than any other Horse in America, and will stand, during the season, at his Stable in Charlestown, where all inquiries, post paid, will be attended to. SAMUEL JAQUES, Jr. Charlestown, Mass. April 25, 18.23. ENGLISH BULL. FOR sale or to let, an I.MPORTED BULL of J 1-2 years old, of the .Normandy breed (i-imihir to tlie Aldernry, only rather larger sized) and considered the richest Milkers in Europe. This animal is large, aiul very finely shaped, a Irindle color and perfectly geiilU . Price, One Hundred and Fifty Dollars ; or if well pla- ced, will be let on equal shares for two years. Also— TWO BULL CALX'ES, from first rate Milk- ers, and a FULL BLOOD ALUERNEY BULL, owned by the Massachusetts -Agricultural Society — will be sold for Fifteen Dollars each, if taken away immediately. Apply to JOHN PRINCE, at his Farm on Jamaica Plain. Roxbury, 19th April, 1823. FRUIT TREES IN THE NURSERY. HANDSOME budded Peach Trees, but three years from the seed, yet as large in general as can be reasonably desired, may be had at the Kexrick Pi.AtE in Newton, at 33 cts. each. The Nursery contains up- wards of twenty of the best kind of Peaches which have hitherto appeared in the Boston market. Also, 2000 Currant Plants of two years growth, on moderate terms, if applied for soon : they should be planted out at four feet distance in rows four feet apart. Also, large Eng- lish Walnuts, Butternuts, Catalpa, Mountain Ash, &;c. Newton, April 26. PRICES OF COUNTRY PRODUCE, &c. [Revised and corrected every Friday.] FROM r TO D. C. D. C. ASHES, pot, 1st qual. . . . ton. 180 00 185 00 175 Ot 180 00 BEANS, white, . . bush 1 00 1 10 BEEF, mess, 200 cwt. bbl. 9 00 9 50 cargo, No 1, . 8 5( 8 75 " No 2, . 6 60 7<0U BUTTER, inspect. 1st qual. . lb. 13 14 " 2d qual. . 10 11 small kegs, family, 15 16 CHEESE, new milk .... 1 9 PLAX bush 8 85 9 FLAX SEED 90 FLOUR, Baltimore, superfine. bbl. 7 50 7 62 Genessee .... 7 50 7 75 Rye, best .... 4 50 5 00 GRAIN, Rye bush 80 .83 Corn 64 63 67 Barley 65 Oats lb. 43 9 45 HOGS' LARD, 1st sort . . HOPS, No 1 cask gal. 10 1 25 65 12 LIME 1 60 OIL, Linseed, American . . 00 PLAISTER PARIS .... ton. 3 00 3 25 PORK, -Navy Mess .... bbl. 12 00 12 50 Bone Middlings . . . 14 00 14 50 Cargo, No 1, ... 12 00 12 60 Cargo, No 2, ... 11 00 11 50 SEEDS, Herd's Grass . . ■ bush 2 25 2 50 Clover lb. C 55 9 WOOL, Merino, full blood,washed 65 do do unwashed 45 48 do 3-4 washed 45 65 do 1-2 do 40 45 Native .... do 38 40 Pulled, Lamb's, 1st sort 55 60 do Spinning, 1st sort 50 55 PROVISION MARKET. BEEF, best pieces .... li). 8 10 PORK, fresh 6 8 VEAL, 6 8 MUTTON 5 7 POULTRY 10 12 BUTTER, keg & tub . . . 15 16 lump, best . . . 16 18 EGGS, doz. 10 72 MFAT- Rve hn«b 85 90 73 3' bO POTiVTOES CIDER, liquor, bbl. 1 50 2 26 HAY, best, too. 20 00 22 00 (12 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. RULES FOR ATTAINING LONG LIKE. The way to loo^ life is like that to everlast- ing happiiie«=, arduous and difficult. The per- son who wishes to obtain length of days must avoid too severe bodily exertion, by which he will either bring on himself infirmities or pre- mature age. 1 can never see but w ith pain, how the common people keep young children to la- borious employments to which their strength is inadequate. Young colts are spared and not set to severe labor till they have obtained a cer- tain age, when their strength is proportionate to tlie labor required of them ; because their owners know from experience that they are spoiled, and become prematurely old and unser- viceable unless this iiidulgence be allowed them. Is it reasonable that we should spare children leas than horses ? The other ex- treme is, however, still worse, and if they are indulged in indolence and high living, it cannot be expected that they will " live out half their days.'' All too lively sensations, the too free use of the senses, violent passions, excesses of every kind, by whatever name they may be called ; severe exertion of the mental faculties, assiduous study, deep meditation and nocturnal vigils, consume the vital spirits, weaken the powers, and bring OQ premature old age. Indolence and total in- activity, either of the corporeal or mental en- ergies are nevertheless equally to be avoided. Bacon has well expressed this where he says — " The vital spirits ought not to be left to stag- nate till they clog up the vessels, neither ought they to be wasted or so expended as to injure those vessels." A due alternation of sleep and watching is an essential maxim for those who desire longevi- ty. If you sleep too much you collect a super- abundance of juices ; for sleep feeds the body more, if any thing, than alimentary substances. It is an indispensable rule for such as wish long life to keep the body as near as possible of equal weight. Now by rest it soon becomes heavier, and by fatigue it is rendered lighter. Both mil- itate against the hope of long life. As to the natural evacuations they must be constantly kept up, but on no account too strong- ly excited by the use of frequent or powerful medicines. " No cathartics are necessary," says Boerhave ; " for there are people of eighty who have never taken any, and yet have al- ways kept their bodies in a proper state." The same remark applies to all artificial evacuations, to blood letting, perspiration, &c. DE.\.TH OF FATHER WELCH. The N. n. Patriot gives the following par- ticulars of the venerable Samuel Welch, who died at Bow, at the advanced age of 113 years. " Mr. Welch spent the early part of his life on the paternal farm at Kingston ; afterwards removed to Pembroke, purchased a small tract of land, and settled upon it. About 50 years since, he removed to Bow, where he steadily culliviited his little farm, till the winter of age was gathering around him, and the infirmities of a second iliilJhood warned him of his ap- proaching dissolution. It was not, however, till a hundred summers had passed, that he was compelled to abstain from labor. I\Ir. Welch had through life been a man of industry, and a lover of retiren)cnt. The dangers of Indian warfare had never disturbed him, though the savages for many years lurked in the vicinity. No accident of evil appears ever to have befal- len him, — his long life has been an even tenor of quiet industry and comfort, unmarked by those vicissitudes which distinguish the history of many of our aged people. The grand se- cret of his extraordinary health seems to have been his unitorm temperance, which, with a single exception, secured to him through life a sound constitution, and entire exemption from disease. Till within a very short time, his mental powers were unimpaired, and he could converse with freedom and propriety. With the years long passed he was most familiar; and would relate with ease, circumstances that oc- curred half a century ago, while with recent events and the present race of men, he was lit- tle acquainted. For the last few years, he has had many visitors ; the young and thoughtless, to behold the patriarch of a century and an eighth — the old, to commune with a man, to whom they too appeared as youths. His ap- pearance was truly venerable. Time had made deep inroads upon his frame ; his locks had been touched by the silvery wand ; his eye, original- ly dark and brilliant, gave evidence of decay- ing lustre; while his countenance, wiinkled with years, and his frame, tottering and feeble, could not but deeply impress the beholder. He spoke of life as one weary of its burthens, and wishing " to be away." His death corresponded with his life — it was calm and tranquil. And we trust he has gone to taste the rewards of a life spent in quiet virtue and unambitious goodness. Mr. Welch was the oldest native of New- Hampshire. Three, however, have died here at a greater age, viz. Mr. Lovewcll, of Dunsta- ble, (father to Col. Zaccheus Lovewell, men- tioned in Belknap's N. H. vol. ii, p. 2.3:3) aged 120; William Perkins, of New Market, who died in 1732, aged 116; and Robert Macklin, of Wakefield, who dietMn 1789, aged 115. It may be mentioned, in favor of the general salubrity of our climate, that within a century about one hundred persons have lived in New Hampshire to the age of a century and upwards. We doubt whether any other state in the Union can present so many instances of longevity. Santieul, the French poet, returning home one night to St. Victoire, at 1 1 o'clock, the por- ter refused opening the door, saying he had positive orders to admit no one at that hour of the night. Auer much altercation, Santieul slipped half a louis d'or under the door, and he obtained immediate entrance. As soon as he got in, he pretended to have left a book upon a stone on the outside, on which he rested him- self while he waited for the opening of the door. The officious porter animated by the poet's generosity ran to get the book, and San- tieul immediately shut the door upon him. Master porter, who was half naked, knocked in his turn, when the poet started the same ob- jection as he had done. Aye, but master San- tieul, I let you in, you know, very civilly. So will I you as civilly, said Santieul; you now the price ; in or out is the word, and 1 can dally no longer. The porter, finding he would have to sleep in the street, half naked, and run the risk of losing his place, slipt the piece of gold under the door, saying, I thought a poet's mon- ey would'nt stay long with me, and according- ly purchased his admittance. — U. 6'. Gazette. PROPOSALS, FOR PrBI.ISHI.VG A VOLUME ENTITLED CO.MPENDIUM OF AGRICULTURE, or the P, mer's Guide in the most essential parts of H bandry and Gardening ; compiled from the best Ail rican and European publications, and the unwriti opinions of experienced cultivators. .Now is the time when agriculture is making rapid strides towards perfection, than appear to ha bten for ages. This may be attributed in some i uri to the .Agricultural Societies established in Sn zcrland, France, Britain and America. But we kni ol no work accessible by farmers in general, that ci ' . t.iiiis a good concentrated account of these valual modern improvements. The work proposed, the; fore, has occupied the attention of the Editors a cc siJcr.-.ble time, and still demands the utmost assidui in collating and condensiug for the press — so that no of the recent improvements in rural economy should omitted that migiit render it interesting and serviceal ■ to the farmers of this country. Tlie Editors, (concerned themselves in niral affaii t [ fully apprized of the importance of agriculture, t firi-t and most mdispensable of arts, are determined i spare no pains to render it a really useful book to I j wh.i know how to appreciate such works. The volume, to contain about 300 pages, 12 mo. one dollar in boards, will be put to press when tftl number of subscribers shall be sufficient to encoura, printing. Those persons who hare obtained subscribers for t above work, are requested to leave their names at t office of the Manufacturers' and Farmers' Journal, the first of July next. Providence, April, 1823. THE STATISTICAL ACCOUNT OF SCOTLAIf DRAAVN up from the communications of the Min ters of the diiferent parishes, by Sir Johs Si CI, AIR, Bart. 21 vols. 8 vo. complete, only one cop will be sold at the very reasonable price of $50. .^inong 58 heads of inquiry addressed to each minist (tlie whole being too numerous for an advertisemer as a guide for their reports, are — Name, and its origi description of the soil and surface ; tlimate and d casts ; instances of longevity ; mode of cultivafioi implements of husbandry ; manures j seed time a; harvest ; quantity and value of each species of cro) total value of the whole produce of the district ; waj and price of labor ; manufactures ; man. of kelp ; \ lice ; roads and bridges ; state of the Church, stipen &LC. number of the poor ; parochial funds and the ma agemcnt of them ; schools, and scholars ; number souls ; cattle, nature and value ; sheep do. ; swine d coal and fuel ; antiquities ; character of the peopl( advantages and disadvantages ; means by which th( situation could be meliorated. " No publication " equal information and curiosity has appeared in ( " Britain since Doomsday Book ; and that, from tl " ample and authentic facts which it records it mu " be resorted to by every future Statesman, Fhiloii " pher and Divine, as the best basis that has ever yi " appeared for political speculation." Also — The Complete Grazier, &c. 1 vol. 8 vo.- Amcrican Orchardist — Cully on Live Stock — Farmer -■Vssistant — Farmer's Manual — American Gardener- Villa Garden Directory — Cox on Fruit Trees, &c. ft< For sale by R. 1». & C. WILLIAMS, Cornhill Squar< Boston. April 12. NEW GARDEN SEEDS. FOR sale, by GEO. MURDOCK, No. 14, Marie Square, a great variety of English and Amcrii GARDEN SEEDS, of the last year's growth ; com ing of early Frame, Hotspur and Charlton Pease ; ei _ and late Cabbage ; early and late Cauliflower; Swe? Marjoram, Thyme, &c. with every other Seed suitablii .•or a Kitchen Gsrden. JiUo, 40 lbs. Mangel ■\S'urtzf or Scarcity — 100 lbs. Ruta Baga or Swedish Turniii- a quantity of Armack or Cirrot. March 29. — 6ir rkei i TERMS OF THE FARMER. 0:5= Published every Saturday, at Three DollABS| per annum, payable at the eud of the year — but those who pay within sixlti days from the time ol subscribing ( will be entitled to a deduction of Fifty Ceists. (fCj" No paper will be discontinued (unless at the' discretion of the Publisher) until arrearages are paid. ■ Q:!^' Complete files from the commeucement of tb* paper ia August csui be furnished. NEW ENGLAND FARMER. PUBLISHED BY THDMAS \V. .SllKl'ARU, llOGEKi:-' BLILDliNGS^, CONGRESS bTRKET, (KOUllTH DOOR FROM STATE STREET.) BOSTON, SATURDAY, MAY 3, 1823. No. 40._ 1 FACTS AND OBSKRVATIONS RELATING TO laCULTURE & DOMESTIC ECONOMY. BY THE EDITOR. ON MAKENG CATTLE VERY FAT. We believe that farmers nnci others some- les " miss the matter" as Hudibras snys, by ing a great deal of pains, and wasting their )duce in making cattle very fat. '• Some fam- !S have given up butchers, who pride them- ves on seliinij very fat meat, finding that it de no way in teeding their familj', so much it was rejected."* In Great Britain prize tie were formerly fatted till they were rcely lit to eat, and the meat had no more rcr than hog's lard. Sheep were likewise ffed with oil cake and gin till the poor things lid not rise alone, and needed as much wait- on as a superannuated Duchess. They were quently stutiod and stimulated till it became jessary to cut their throats to save their lives, t is to say, nothing but a butcher's knife could ivent them from dying of dropsy. A man to lure such food need have the stomach of a rk, and the digestive powers of an ostrich, t can make a meal on ten penny nails. VIeat, however, reasonabhj tat is more profit- e, as well as more nourishing than lean meat, t, " to digest this oily matter, there are re- red, on account of its ditiicult solubilily, a id bile, much saliva, and a vigorous stomath; isequcntly none excepting those who a;e he most vigorous state of health, or wfao employed in bard labor can digest i\^ the IJone also gains but little in the fatting mal, and the other ofial become proportion- y less, as the animal becomes more fat, is best to have cattle well fatted, but not iverted into a mass of matter as unpalat- e and unwholesome as whale oil. " A ■iFse and heavy-fleshed ox which would re- te a very long time, and much good food to ■■en, may be slaughtered rather lean. It is , however, so much the extent of fat, as the nt of a sufficient quantity of lean flesh of ich the consumer complains ; for it cannot doubted, that the lean flesh of a fat anmial luperior in quality, and contains more nour- iment than any other meat."J THE PROPER AGE OF CATTLE FOR FATTEXLNG. •* Animals arrived at their lull age, at least 1 size, are well known to be the most proper dily to take on fat, since nature is not then peded by a double process. Young animals great substance, and well formed, will like- 98 fatten to good profit ; but they are gener- y adapted to the gradual plan of grazing, lich is prolonged eighteen months or two ars. The grazier thus reaps the profits ol" iir natural growth or increase in stature. lere is another species of increase, technically ■led gro~joth ; it is the spread or extension of iscular flesh in full aged animals, of large jae and capacious frame. § * Scotch Husbandry, voL 1, p. 109. IVi'illich on Diet and Regimen. If Code of Agriculture, p. 91. i Lawrence oa Neat Cattle. " Tallow is formed from the surplus nourish- ment given to animals, beyond what is necessary for their more physical development ; whence it follows that those which have not obtained their full growth are fatted with difTicully, and only by extraordinary mean'. Calves, for ex- ample, can only be fatted by great quantities of irilk, to which must often be added egg?., barley o- oat meal, or the flour of beans or peas; and vith all this abundance and selection of food, taey yield little if any interior fat or tallow. '\ hereas oxen, at six years of age, with corres- pondent treatment, give large quantities of that article. Old cattle are also, from loss of teeth, debility of stomach, or other internal disorgani- zation dilUcult to fat. These facts sufiiciently indicate what, on this head, ought to be our prac- tice ; lo fatten cattle as soon after they have obtain- ed their grozath as possible. Oxen generally at- tain their growth at five or six years, and sheep and hogs at two."* FOOn FOR FATTING CATTLE. It has been often said, and we believe cor- rectly, that it is not profitable, generally speak- ing, to fatten cattle on any kind of grain. Law- rence, on neat cattle, asserts that "Corn [by which is meant oats, barley, rye, peas, beans, wheat, tc] cannot be used in the fattening of bullocks and sheep, except in seasons of super- abundant plenty." Even Indian corn is often loo costly a species of food to be used solely or chiefly for the profitable fattening of cattle, Tnd grass, hay or roots are said to be the mate- vvils which true economy requires.! But we h:we heard it asserted that beef fattened on oil cate, raw potatoes, ttirnips, &c. will not be so firm, nor of so good a quality, other things be- ins equal, as that which is fattened on Indian con. If that be true it might be well to com- meice with turnips and potatoes, and give the animals richer food as they increase in fatness. Frequent changes of diet will prevent the ap- pette from being palled, and accelerate the pro- cess of fattening. An able writer observes that " ^^ith respect to feeding, the first rule is, to give little at a time and often ; because experi- ence has shewn that animals that eat much in a ^ort time do not fatten so well as those whch eat less but more slowly and frequently. The second rule is to begin the course with calhages and turnips; then to employ carroL- anc potatoes, and lastly, Indian, oat, or barle^ meal, the marsh bean, or the grey pea. These aliments ought to be varied five or six times a day, and ol'tener if convenient ; and instead of alvKiys reducing them to flour, there is an ad- vantage in sometimes boiling them. A little sail, given daily, is very useful."* It would prcve very useful to try experiments on this sulject, and publish their results. Let a num- be: of cattle of similar or the same breed, age, propensity to fatten, as ascertained by handling, &c. &c. be fattened at the same time. Let one be fed entirely on potatoes raw, a second on the same root steamed or boiled, a third be made * Treatise on Agriculture, first published in the Al- tany Argus. ' \ t See a communicatiou for the N. E. Farmer, signed ptiblishcd page 234. one half, or two thirds tat on potatoes, and his fatting completed with Indian corn ; a fourth be fatted on Indian corn, or corn meal; a fifth be fed with a mixture of all these kinds of food, given together in the sanle mess, or in different messes. The first feed in the morning for the last mentioned bollock, might be a small quanti- ty of potatoes, or turnips, the second ruta baga, or carrots, or mangel wurtzel, or parsnips, which are highly recommended, 'i'hen as the last course of the day's feast give Indian meal, or other food the richest you have. It would be well, likewise, to try the virtues of sweet apples, which would probably prove a valuable food for cattle. The most important objects of such experiments, however, would be to ascer- tain whether the beef of cattle faltencJ on po- tatoes, or other roots raw or steameil is ecjual in quality to that which is fattened on Indian corn. If not, whether an ox may not be made nearly fat enough for profit on roots, and his fatting completed on corn, and the flesh be as good as if he had been fattened zi'holUj on corn. And if an ox partly fatted on roots, and his fattening' completed on corn gives as good beef as one wholly fed on corn, the question arises how long a time will it require to give the beef its good qualities arising I'rom the corn 1 We know as respects swine that farmers will make them partly tat on any thing which they will devour, and then feed them for some time before they are killed with Indian corn or meal to " harden thcjlesh''' .IS they express it. And perhaps the same process will answer as well for beef cat- tle. Some farmers say that the red or La Plata potatoe given raw to swine, makes as good pork as that which is corn fed. Others say that any kind of potatoe, if steamed or boiled, will make as good pork as can be made of corn. If this be true of pork, why not of beef? It is a truth which has been confirmed by re- peated experiments that food for swine ferment- ed and become a Utile acid will go farther and fatten them faster than sweet food of the same quality. But it is not, we believe, generally known, that acid food is most valuable tor neat cattle, in certain circumstances. Mr. Bordley, however, asserts that " Oxen made half fat, or in good plight, on grajs or turnips, are then ve- ry highly and soon finished in France, upon a so::r food thus prepared: rye meal, (buck wheat or Indian corn meal may be tried) with water is made into a paste, which in a few days ferments, aud becomes sour ; this is then diluted with wa- ter, and thickened laitk hay, cut into chafl', which ihe oxen sometimes refuse the first day, but when dry they drink and prefer it. All the husbandmen are decidedly of opinion they i'allen much better because of Xhn acidity. They Xive it thrice a day and a large ox thus eats 22 lbs. a day. iMaize [Indian] meal, or maize steep- ed till sour should be tried. I'his sour mess is given duraig the last three weeks of their fat- tening, and they eat about 74 bushels of meal, value four dollars."* * Care should be taken that the process of fermOTta- tion bf !K I carried too tar. Ihe paste should not . ,^er come mouldy, nor the liquid food in the slightest de- gree putrid. 314 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. We think tli:it thore is reason m (vaiting till animals become •' liiiUlat,"" or in "good pliKht,"' before thpy nre fed with acid food. Acimnil'y itself for its retardation in Spring, by cxtraoniinary and rapid efibrts — and the har- vest of grain is as early in those countries as in more Southern latitudes. The last year (182i.') ne sewed peas, and planted early potatoes on the sixth of March — which we remarked to have been more early, by I.t (1;i}s, than we had ever been able to perform Ibe same oper- ations for 17 years preceding. This year we had nearly two feet of snow on the ground on Ihc frst of .April, and we were not able to com- mit our early seeds to the ground till the 8th of April, a difference of 30 days. Vet on the 20th of this month, we (Ind the natural progress of plants (not affected by cultivation) one day more forward than they were lait year, and nearly a week more forward than during an average of seasons for the last 17 years. In the year 1815 Apricots opened their flow- ers on May 1st. In 1816'on the 29th of April. _, In 1822 few Apricot blossoms were opened ^n the 21st of April. In 182.'5 an equal number of Apricot blos- soms were fully expanded on the 20th of April. The Hyacinth gave a correspondent result, and fruit trees generally correspond in forward- ness t(f the plants just mentionei). Generally speaking the season is as forwaid as it ever was on the most favorable years, so far as it de- pends on the progress of nature. The labors of ■man have however been suspended, in a very unusual degree, and much more cNertion will be required in the same sjiace of time, to per- form the ordinary spring iluties of the Farmer and the Gardener. The ground is in a tine state for cultivation. The tender grasses have been admirably protected against those heaving frosts which throw the roots out of the ground, and thus disappoint the hopes of the husband- man. The warm weather has not been accom- panied with searching rays, or drying winds, and the season, so far as it has yet advanced, promises an ample indemnity for the unpropi- tious prolongation of winter, and the decay of agricultural exertion. We may derive from ibis experience, a lesson of patience, and a sentiment of confidence in the wisdom and pro- tecting Providence of the Great Ruler of the Seasons. From the American Farmer. BURNING SOU. That agriculture in Maryland, has not proved profitable generally, is demonstrated by the de- sertion of many from our lands, and by the po- verty of cultivators, although taxation is very light, and the owners possess slaves, and al- though almost every fiirm is near a navigaJjIe stream. What reason can be assigned for this, but that our land being worn out, will no longer yield as formerly. Corn and tobacco, have been out" principal crops, and these require four ploughings, to bring them to maturity. Our rains fall very heavily, and the oftener the ground is turned over, the more the line parti- cles of mould are of course washed away — few farmers keep up their cattle, and of course lit- tle manure is made. For many years, we have been leaving out old fields, cutting down our woods, and cultivat- ing virgin soils, but these being now exhausted, families have been compelled to emigrate. Mr. Beatson's pamphlet on clay or sod burn- ing, has con)e most appropos, and promises to restore our lands cheaply, and expeditiously — 1 commenced his practice last year, and all my neighbors remarked, what benefit my corn re- ceived, by only putting one or two handfuls of burnt sod in every corn hill, before 1 put in the corn. 1 take up my pen now to inform you, of one experiment which has afforded me great encouragement, and which has determined me to devote the labor of two hands, exclusively, to clay or sod burning. On a very poor spot, I perceived the corn only about two feet high, whilst the adjoining corn was five feet ; having been told, that manure, when placed between the corn rows, would improve the crop, as the roots would shoot into it when the corn began to tassel, I run a furrow between each row, and put in, and covered over the burnt sod — the re- sult was, that this poor corn, became as good as all the rest. In the fall I ploughed in my wheat, and now the wheat where I put in the burnt sod, is so verdant and luxuriant, that you may distinguish it from the rest of the field, half a mile off — my neighbors have been surprised at the great difference, and calculate that it will yield twice or thrice as much as the adjoining wheat, although the soil last year was evident-: ly richer. The average of corn crops last year, on un- manured, and commonly cultivated fields, did not amount I fear to more than ten or twelve bushels to the acre, the cost of four ploughings and planting, cannot I think be estimated at less than seven dollars ; if the price of corn be three dollars and a half per barrel, the cultiva- tor is nearly repaid for bis labor, and nothing remains for wear of animals, and of implements, and for contingencies. I calculate that two hands can make 140 bush- els of burnt sod in two days, which arj the most that can be advantageously put upon an acre — say that these 110 bushels, only couble crops of corn, wheat, clover, &c. for ony six years, and then consider the profit. To rrake it clear, I will put down the expense and profit in an account. E practised it with success, and in gardening, iiad last year several stalks of corn, in his « den, with six or seven ears. Think how. restoring worn out soils, we can support mc cattle, &c. — and thus make stable manure, a then estimate the profit to land holders throo{ out Maryland. When 1 cut down my wheat, I will give » a statement of the produce from the land t luired with burnt sod in the rows, and from ti adjoining not- so manured. I hope that emig tion will henceforth cease, till we are e< populous, and that our lands will rise in vnl and that prosperity will be exhibited by C( furts and cheerfulness, instead of long faces, ; complaints and sickness, which are now prod ed by bad harvests. Your's respectfullv, THOMAS LAW P. S. I have not a fixed kiln, but carry stumps and sticks to the place where I ploi up the clay, to cover the stumps and slicks n it. and after setting fire to the sticks, I contii throwing on clods wherever the smoke coi out. The clods ought to be dry. ESTATE Dr. ESTATE Cr. To two hands for two 1st year, two barrels days. 4 more corn, 7 Scattering the burnt 2d year, ten bushels sod, and haulino; more wheat. 10 stumps and sticks, 3 3d year clover 10 Add the tliree fol- Days 7 lowing- years, 30 Dollirs 57 Let every one buy Mr. Beatson's book, and he will see, that my calculation is very mode- rate, and that it might be doubled on the credit side. When 1 consider how many stumps and sticks are left to rot in the woods, and to be washed into our rivers by rain, which might be con- verted into ashes, and to useful sod burning, 1 sigh at the loss of riches by ignorance — of this mode of making manure. Three or four free negroes, who have used it on tobacco, and in their gardens by my ad- vice, tell me that it has astonished them — my neighbor an excellent English farmer, has lonjf Extract from Bordley's Husbandry. In many parts of America are idle impn dent people, masters of farms, who spend tl time in taverns or other places of wast amusement : any where rather than at h( These haunts are at the expense of their doi tic and true happiness. Sooner or later 1 bring on them debts, wants and grating ch of creditors. Such a people can never be broi to soil cattle, or at all to improve their fa: Where is solid comfort to be found if no home'! The meanness, the selfishness and folly of these husbands, fathers or masters, conspicuous, degrading and shameful ; who, gardless of tc'(/c, child and dependents claii their protection, their affections and theirs tions, and even regardless of the true inte> of their precious selves, fly from their own ] piness in the moment when they mount t horses and hurry to the tavern, the race, o pins, billiards, excess upon excess of toddy, the most nonsensical and idle chat, accor • nied with exclamations and roarings, brutal j' foreign to common sense and manners as ! mind of wisdom can conceive of depraved i Had these men, so deficient in character, ' trained but a few years among the ord. thoughtful good farmers of some neighbo . district, they would have learnt valuable {" sons for conducting (heir farms, themselves 1^ their domestic affairs, greatly to their con ' and advantage, and to the comfort due to t j families and dependents, to whom they j'' more than they are accustomed to feel ' ' them. There are on the other hand, those with industry aim at providing for their fanii ■ but it is not with an honest mnid and fairne 'I reputation. The strength of these is in • cunning : If indeed they wish to be perfei » that detestable of all qualities, they needncO; far from home ; unless for the sake of en !• lisbing the satanical talent with some v. ty. They might then associate with tht lanous class of people distinguished for moi this base quality than of provident indu fairness, and honest manly candor. Boasting. — A man who boasts of his honesty, ' ^ woman of her chastity, are both to be suspected. NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 31" ,NEVV ENGLAND FARMER. SATURDAY, MAY 3, 1823. The Farmers and Gardeners Remembrancer. MAY. Pastdres. — Be so good as not to turn your aftle into your p.istures till they cnn gel ivli;it is called a '■'■good bite.'''' If yon let thom in too lion IN, ;if( !*'' early they will tread your land into hotch potch, ''* !>r salmagundi, destroy the sward, and "• do more ischiel'than a little." Dr. Deane said that the iZOth of May is early enough for our climate, [and we believe it is quite as well, where the 'armer can atford it, to keep his working oxen land horses to hay or other stall feed at least till the first of June. It is not right to turn all sorts lof cattle into pastures promiscuously. "Milch |kine, working oxen, and fatting beasts, should have the first feeding of an enclosure. After- wards sheep and horses. When the first lot is thus fed ofl', it should be shut up, and the dung that has been dropped should be beat to pieces and well scattered. Afterwards the second pas- ture should be treated in the same manner, and the rest in course, feeding the wettest pasture after the driest, that the soil may be less potchcd. " Something considerable is saved by letting all sorts of grazing animals take their turns in a pasture. By means of this nearly all the her- bage produced will be eaten ; much of which would otherwise be lost. Horses will eat the leavings of horned cattle ; and sheep will eat some things that both the one and the other leave. " Let the stock of a farmer be greater or less, he should have at least four enclosures of pasture land. One enclosure may be fed two weeks, and then shut up to grow. Each one will recruit well in six weeks ; and each will have this time to recruit. But in the latter part of October, the cattle may range through all the lots, unless some one may become toe wet and soft. Feeding pastures in rotation, is of greater advantage than some are apt to im agine. One acre managed according to the above directions will turn to better account, some say, who have practised it, than three acres in the common way."* Irrigating or Watering Lands. — Those of our readers who have conveniences for irrigating their lands may as well attend to this business as soon as possible. If you have a spring or brook on a high part of your farm you may take all or a part of its waters from their natu- ral channels, and lead them over the driest part of your soil, keeping them as nearly on a level as possible without having them stagnats and form quiigmires in their course. You must have your water completely at command, for water like fire, although a good servant is a bad mas- ter. It is no matter how soon you prepare your channel, trenches. &c. and let a little water into them by way of experiment, but you should not apply it in any considerable quantity till the ground becomes somewhat dry. After the grass has got a fair start let the quantity of water be diminished, and you will of course stop it from your fields in wet weather, and let it run in its natural channel. After the grass is pretty well grown, water must be used only in dry weather, but in very clear and hot days it should not be applied. Nights and cloudy days are the prop- * Deane's N. E. Farmer, p. 314, 315. er times for irrigation. But we shall not give minute and circumstantial directions, for vou must make use of your own good sense in "this as well as most other processes for improving your land. A tcmpaniry stream will not pay you for conliiiing and directing its waters, unless, as is sometimes the case, it contains a good quan- tity of mud or sediment, which you may iuduce it to deposit for the funjiose of manuring your soil. But muddy water turned on grass, which is growing, is apt to make it gritty and unwhole- some. " In regard to waters much impregnated with iron they were formerly supposed totally unlit for the purposes of irrigation ; but it is now fol- ly proved by the accurate experiments of an able chymist, and by the extraordinary growth of grasses in Prisley meadow, in Bedfordshire, that ferruginous ivaters (waters impregnated with iron) are friendly to vegetation, when properly applied. " Waters that are impregnated with the juic- es that flow from peat-mosses, arc considered by many not worth applying to the soil. It is ob- jected to them that they are commonly loaded with such antiseptic substances (matters which prevent putrefaction) as will retard, instead of promote vegetation, and that they convey no material nutriment. But others are of opinion that a want of sufficient slope in the meadow, or of proper management with regard to the water, has occasioned the disappointments which have been experienced when bog-waters have been applied."* We have no doubt but a top dressing of lime after irrigation, would correct any evils to be apprehended from the acid or antiseptic qualities of the water used in that process. Secure your Fruit and Forest Trees against Cattle. — We have our eye on some farmers and others, who have planted trees, on the borders of high ways and other places, who have not more than half secured them against cattle. This is not much wiser than it would be to build fi house on a high snow bank in March or April. The trees should be substantially fenced, as high as the largest cattle can reach. But it will be advisable not to exclude too much of the sun and air. Four stout stakes, well driven into the ground at a suitable distance from the tree, and narrow but strong slips of board, nailed from one to the other, so as to form a square enclo- sure, with the tree for its centre, will answer, provided the fence is carried high enough. Engrafting Fruit Trees. — Dr. Thacher says (American Orchardist, p. 3b) " The most prop- er season for grafting in our climate, is from about the 20th of Ma'rch to the 20th of May," Mr. Cobbett states that " the way in which grafting and budding is done, cannot, upon any principle consistent with common sense, become matter of zeritten description. Each is a me- chanical operation, embracing numerous move- ments of the arms, hands, and fingers, and is no more to be taught by written directions than to make a chest of drawers is. To read a full and minute account of the acts of budding and graft- ing would require ten times the space of time that it requires to go to a neighbor and learn from a sight of the operation, that which, after all, no written directions would ever teach. "t Notwithstanding, however, this energetic de- * Code of Agriculture. "t American Gardener, par. 281. nunciation against undertaking to describe the process of grafting in writing, we shall here repeat some rules given by .Mr. Preston, of Stockport, Pa. It is true, w'e have published jthem once [No. 16, page i21,] but as we have subscribers who have commenced taking the paper since they were published, wc will'^give them once more, viz: " 1st. Be careful not to loosen the bark of Ihe stock in splitting it; and Ihe safest way to guard against that is to split the bark with a sharp pointed knife, before the splitting of the stock. " 2d. As after the leaves are grown it is not expected to use scions from a distance, but to cut them out of the orchard as wanted, be sure in selecting the grafts to cut them in such a manner as to always take the bulge, between the year's growth, to shave and sit in the stock, as in that joint or bulge, between the year's growth, the wood is curled, open and porous, to receive the sap readily from the stock, and such scions will grow and flourish — when if taken from any other part of the twig they would not grow. " 3d. The clay should be very fine and tough, and pressed and bound water tight round tha stock below the split to retain all the sap that oozes out to support the graft." It is not good management to graft young trees, until you know what kind of fruit they will produce without grafting, otherwise you may introduce by art less valuable fruit than na- ture would have given you. Neither is it prop- er to take off too many limbs for the purpose of grafting in one season, lest you ruin the tree by stopping the circulation of its sap. You may see farther directions on this subject in No. 19, p. 145, of the N. E. Farmer. Look to vour Peach Trees. — These trees are annoyed, and sometimes killed by small grubs, said to be about an inch in length, which are found in the roots. They are said to be pro- duced by a blue fly, which attacks the trees from about the middle of August to the middle of September, and generally deposits its eggs in the bark at or near the surface of the ground. To take out this worm the roots must be uncov- ered, as soon as the tree begins to bud in the spring, and the spot looked for where the gum oozes out. Follow the cavity round with the point of a knife or a chisel, until you come to the solid wood, lay the whole open, and you will find the worm, with a white body and black heitd, which must be destroyed and the hole filled with cow dung, rendered adhesive by lime, sand and ashes.* A writer in the New York Evening Post, in prescribing against this disorder says, " As soon as the buds begin to put forth, and the leaf to appear in the spring, and before they are quite out, remove from the bottom of the tree entire- ly all the dirt or turf till you come to the bare roots, from which scrape all the loose and old rotten bark ; then take three quarts of fresh slacked lime for a large and full grown tree, and so in proportion for a smaller and younger one, and lay it carefully on, and about the roots, covering it from the weather, and it will destroy these destructive insects entirely. It is about the time the present season to begin your work ; but some years it will be earlier, and some la- ter." Wood ashes put round the roots in au- • Deane's N. E. Farmer, Art. Peach Tree ; Weill ic Lilly's Edition. 318 NEW EiNGLAND FARMER. tiimn, it is said will preserve peach trees from these insects, as well as increase their fruitl'ul- ness. Inileed wood ashes, lime, soap suds, and spent tanner's bark have all been recommended as preventives against insects. We wish they might ail be more thorough!}' and extrnsively tried, both separately and mixed, and tlie effects of their application made public. QrJF.RE WITH RF.GARD TO Pl..\,NTINO Ti'F.F.S. .\ iViend ol" the editor suggests an appichcnsion that we are (or rather Mr. Cobbett is) wrong in certain directions for planting tree?, publish- ed in our paper of the ]9lh .^pril, p. ;i01. It IS there advised, previous lo planting a tree, to '• cut off all the fibres close to the roots : lor they never live, and they mould and do great injury. 11" cut off their place is supplied by other fibres more quickly." This, says the querist, is contrary to the opinions and practice of such people of his acquaintance as have the most practical knowledge of the subject, and he wishes to know on what authority we found- ed our directions. We, therefore, now produce the observations of some other writL-rs which happen to be at hand. Mr. Bucknal, an English author, (quoted in Thacher"s Orchardist, p. 31,) says, '■•the S7nall mulled jUires must be cut off, as they ore apt to mould and decay, and prevent nciu ones from shooting.'''' Dr. Deane says, fN. E. Farmer, p. •159, Wells & Lilly's edition.^ '■'■Ml the small fibres are to be cut off, as near to the place ■u;hence they are produced as may be, excepting perhaps when they are to be replanted immediately after they are taken up. But it will require great care to plant them in such a manner as not to distort or entangle the fibrous roots, which if done, will be worse for the plant than if they were cut off." We have consulted Messrs. Mawes, M'Mahon, Bradley, Darwin, and some other writers, but h^e found no particular directions on this jub- jcct. Mr. Mai-shall, an old English writer, ap- pears to be in favor of preserving the fibres. But we will give his directions at length, which we presume will not appear tedious to any one properly impressed with the importance of per- forming this operation in the most advantageous manner. '• Describe n circle about five or six feet di- ameter for the hole. If the ground he in grass, remove the sward in shallow spits, placing the sods on one side of (lie hole ; the best of the loose mould placed by itself on another side, and the dead earth, from the bottom of the hole, in another heap. The depth of the holes should be regulated by the nature of the sub- soil. Where this is cold and retentive, the holes should not be made much deeper than the cultivated soil. To go lower, is to form a re- ceptacle for the water, which, by standing among the roots, is very injurious to the plants. On the contrarj', in a dry light soil, the holes should be made considerable deeper ; as well to obtain a degree of coolness and moisture, as to be able to establish the plants firmly in the soil. In soils of a middle (juality, the hole should be of such depth, that when the sods are thrown to the bottom of it, the plant will stand at the same depth in the orchard as it did in the nursery. Each hole, therefore, should be of a ilepth adapted lo the particular root planted in it. The holes ought, however, for various rca- son=, to be msde pievious to the day of plant- ing. If the season of planting be spring, and the ground and the weather be dry, the holes should be watered the evening before the day of planting, by throwing two or three pails full of water into each ; a new but eligible practice. In planting, the sods should be thrown lo the bottom of the hole, chopt with the spade, and covered with some of the finest of the mould. If the hole be so deep, that with tliis advantage ihe bottom will not be raised high enough for ihe plant, some of the worst of the mould should be returned before the sod be thrown down. The bottom of the hole being raised to a proper height and adjusted, the lowest tier of roots is lo be S|)read out upon it; drawing them out horizontally, and spreading tbeni in ditrcrent directions, drawing out with the hand the rootlets and fibres which severally belong to them, spreading them out as a feather, pressing them evenly into the soil, and covering them, by hand, with some of the finest of the mould ; the other tiers of roots are then to be spread out and bedded in the same manner. Great care is to be taken to work the mould well in, by hand, that no hollowness be left; to prevent which, the mould is to be trodden hard with the foot. The remainder of the mould should be raised into a hillock, round the stem, for the trip[>le use of affording coolness, moisture, and stability to the plant. A little dish should be made on the top of a hillock, and from the rim of this the slope should be gentle to the circum- ference of the hole, where the broken ground should sink some few inches below the level of the orchard. All this detail may be deemed un- necessary ; by those, I mean, who have been accustomed to bury the roots of plants in the grave-digger's manner ; but I can recommend every part of it to those who wish to insure success, from my own practice. Plants which have been transplanted in the manner here re- commended, whose heads have been judiciously lessened, seldom require any other stay than their own roots. If, however, the stems be tall, and the roots few and short, thej' should be supported in the usual manner, with stakes, or rather, in the following manner, which is a; once simple, strong, and most agreeable to tht eye. Take a large post, and slit it with a saw, and place the parts tlat-way with the faces to the plant, one on each side of it, and two feet apart, and nail your rails upon the edges of the posts." FOREIGN. GREAT B RITA LN:— Accounts have been receiv- eti from London to the 22d of March, but furnish nc news of importance. The editors of English newspa- pers appear to exert their oratorical faculties in oppo- s-ition to any interference of the British government in the impending contest. They are willing that indivi- du.ll Englishmen should enter the lists merely as pri- vate citizens, but not under the banners of the nation. The Morning Chronicle is of opinion that a departure from neutrality, on the part of Great Britain, would " rouse the national vanity of the French, and give rise, jierhaps, to an interminable war. This is a con- sequence which it woulti be madness to hazard. Spain is strong in situation, and does not want men. \\'e can serve her more effectually by remaining at peace than by sending a force to the Peninsula. Repeal the foreign Enlistment Bill — allow free scope to British generosity ; and the French government, or we are much mistaken, will soon repent its undertaking." SPAI.y. — .Accounts have been received from Gib- raltar as late as the 27th of March. A report had been pri-viously in circulation that 15,000 French troops had eatcied irpain, but this was premature, and no hostili- ;lt ties had commenced at that period. The kingcf Spaiil is considered by the Cortes as a mere cipher, and o: course makes no figure in such a crisis. He has bcei| ordered to S^eville, and the Cortes, .Ministers, ice. to accompany him. They were to set out on the 2i of March, and were expected to reach the capital Andalusia about the luth of April. Five Spanish mies are formed and forming ; the whole, it is sai amount to 100,000 men, well clothed and furnishi with means for the anticipated contest. 1 he Freni declure their intention of proceeding no farther i. Mailrid, but to wait the tide of events at that capitaji Thtri is every appearance, however, of their meeting P witli some serious impediments on their march to that place; and if we might be allowed to prophecy (ac- cording to the immemorial usages of editors) we should say that the French will lose many lives and gain but few laurels in this expedition. If the Gallic eagle does not get his bones picked by Spanish crows, he will b« the luckiest fowl that ever was fledged. Men who stay at home to defend their altars and fire sides pos- sess great advantages over those who penetrate a for- eign country to dragoon its inhabitants into despotism, Spanish Cortes. — This body, in a reply to the king's, speech, make the following observation: "The un- heard of pretension of dictating laws to independent nations, will, if not resisted, draw in its train the ruin and dissolution of every state in Europe; and an in- terminable and exterminating war would reduce this fertile region to the barbarous state of the people of Asia." GREEKS i TURKS.— On the evening of Christ- mas, Omer I'acha, the Turkish commander, with sev- eral thousand men, made an attack on Missolonglu with the hope of surprising it. The Greeks, however, were on their guard, beat off their enemies, and the next (lay surprised and took the Turkish camp, togetli- er with twelve pieces of cannon, all the munitions of war. kc. and killed 500 or 600 men. Still the Greeks hare a " hard row to hoe." The Turks are collecting fresh armies, and threaten to overrun the Peninsula. DOMESTIC. JVr. Mams'' Donation to the Toicn of Quiney. — Thsf Daily .Advertiser gives a sketch of a pamphlet contain' ing the deeds of gift from the Hon. John .\dai>is, of several pieces of land, and of his library to the town of Quiney, with a catalogue of the library. By this tt appears that the instruments convey two lots of land, called the Cedar Pasture, to the said town, conditioned that the rent be placed at interest in some solid fund either of the Commonwealth or of the United States, and the interest again placed at interest, for building a Temple for the public worship of God for the use of the Congregational Society in that town, and the sup- port of a school for the teaching of the Greek and Latin languages, &c. Likewise a second deed conveys six lots of land on the same conditions, and to erect a stone school house " over the cellar which was under the house anciently built by the Rev. Mr. John Han- cock, the father of John Hancock, that great, genera- ous, disinterested, bountiful benefactor of his country, once President of Congress, and afterwards Governor of this State, to whose great exertions and unlimited sacrifices this nation is so deeply indebted for her inde- pendence and present prosperity, who was born in this liouse ; and which house was afterwards purchased and inhabited by the reverend, learned, ingenious and eloquent Lemuel Bryant, pastor of this congregation ; which house was afterwards purchased by an honora- ble friend of my younger years, Col. Josiah Quiney, and was also inhabited by his son, Josiah Quiney, jun. a friend of my riper years, a brother barrister at law, with whom I have engaged in many arduous contests at the bar, who was as ardent a patriot as any of bis age, and next to .tames Otis, the greatest orator." The third instrument is a conveyance, on certain conditions, to the town of Quiney, in consideration of the motives and reasons enumerated in the two former deeds, of his library, which is thus described; viz: " The fragments of my library, which still remain in my possession, excepting a few that 1 shall reserve for my consolation, in the few days that remain for me." To this document is annexed a catalogue of the libra- ry, containing nearly three thousand volumes. These several donations, with the restrictions and limitations, have been accepted by the town of Quiney, with votes of thanks to the venerable douor. NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 319 CITY GOVERNMENT. The new city government was organized at Faneuil .all on Thiirsdr\y. The services commenced at 10 clock. Prayers were read by Rev. Dr. Freeman — 10 oaths of oltice were administered by the late Mayor . his successor in office, and the Aldermen and mem- if the Common Council. The Mayor elect then ,1 red an Address adapted to the occasion. Pirates captured. — There is a report, hy the way of lUimore, that Com. Porter's squadron had taken and ::!ioyed the greater part of the pirates off Havana. \ -counts from Nassau state that the launches from ic Tyne and Thracian, Br. sloops of war, had attack- ( a large piratical vessel, in the port of Malta, a inrl distance from Barracoa, and succeeded in captur- 1.- the crew — killed from 15 to 20 — prisoners 28. riie last advices from Mexico, inform that the short I'd Ex-Emperor Iturbidc I, had renounced his Impe- rial Diadem, and submitted to all the terms dictated . liiiu by the Congress. To Ship Builders. — The National Intelligencer of le lOtli April, contains an advertisement from the 'rtasury Department of the U. States, setting forth roposals for building three vessels, to be used as float- ig lights. The first is to be three hundred tons, the .coud and third one hundred tons each. Mr. C. W. Goldsborough, of Philadelphia, has issued roposals for publishing the United Slates A'aval Chroni- 'c in one volume, annually. It is to embrace a gener- I and biographical history of the navy, official reports, 1 J a variety of matter suitable to such a work. The number of patients at the Asylum for the In- me, at Bloomingdale, N. Y. on the Ist of .Tanuary i-t. was 91 — 18 men and 43 women. It is stated that irge proportion of those deprived of their reason, in .1- iustitutiou, have "lost it iu consequence of the rliilgence of spirituous liquors I" Russian Clergy. — Mrs. Henderson, in a letter pub- Ii. d in the Missionary Herald, says that at the time Ui-n a Bible Society was formed in Novogorod, (Rus- i) there were many of the clergy who had never ( u a bible, and on hearing of it, asked what kind of (/out it was ? —^ Long Island PipptTU. — Mr. Henry Mitchell, of Flush- ig, Queens county, N. Y. gathered last fall from one ee, eight barrels of apples, six barrels of which were nt to Liverpool by one of the line of packets as an Iventure. The captain was requested to return him le proceeds, in British sovereigns, thirty of which, mounting to $133,33, were lately paid over to Mr. litchell, exclusive of freight and commissions .' Such is le celebrity of Long Island Pippins throughout the ■orld, and so important is the cultivation of good fruit. A'. Y. Statesman. Cold Winter at J^'ew Orleans. — The past winter has een very severe at New Orleans, for that climate, 'rem the 10th to the 16th of March the ponds in the uburbs of that city, were sufficiently frozen to permit kaiting. The Mercury was at 1-1 Farenheit. The •range trees are all killed, including those of fifty ears standing. Canada. — Mr. Hume lately stated in the British ■ise of commons that Canada cost England half a iillion of pounds sterling annually, and tlrat the trfngth of England would be increased by granting iilependence to this and many other of her foreign olonies. Horse System. — There is now in Virginia, a gentlc- lan by the name of Smith, lately from New Orleans, • ho can teach the wildest horse (having a knowledge I the bridle) in less than an hour to follow him hrough a large company without taking hold of the ridle, up a pair of stairs three or four feet or more i»h, into a dwelling house, and walk from one room o another as invited, without any alarm. This gen- leing system has a wonderful effect in breaking any lorse to draw in harness. His price for imparting this ystem or secret is $20. The system is so very simple liat he can teach it to any person in one hour. Richmond Enquirer. A grass bonnet, in imitation of Leghorn, was sold at Baltimore, a few days since, at .iO dollars. It was made by some young lady, living on the Susquehannah. Long L^land Races. — Great preparations are making, says the U. S. Gazette, for the races which will take place in .May next at the Union Course. Eight horses from the .South have already arrived, and are now in training, upon Long Island — ten more are soon expected. An association has been formed in New .Terscy, to check, by " precept and example," the immoderate use of ardent spirits. It is a "growing and blasting evil," and we wish such associations were more nu- merous. Mclajicholy Occident. — Three men were killed on the 13th of March by the explosion of a cask of powder containing 320 lbs. They were a part of the expedi- tion designed for the Rocky Mountains. The new establishment at Key West has been nam- ed ^lllen^s Tojni, in honor of the lamented Lieut. Com. W illiam H. Allen. The effects of Intoxication. — A man named J. Schaef- fer, was lately drowned in attempting to cross the Ca- dorus, about 4 miles below York, Pa. He undertook to cross a stream of water while in an intoxicated state, but fell out of the canoe and was drowned. He was soon taken up, while retaining some appearance of life, but all attempts to resuscitate him were fruitless. Letter Lost. — A letter mailed in Charleston, S. C. on the 5th of February, directed to G. & R. Waite, N. York, and containing one thousand dollars in bills of the United States' Branch Bank, has been lost, and 100 dollars reward offered for its recovery. A"(ic College in Kentucky. — At Augusta, Ken. a Col- lege has recently been established, which, under divine Providence, bids fair to rank among the first institutions of the kind in the Western country, if not iu the United States. I AGRICULTUR.\L ESTABLISHMENT, NO. 20, MERCHANTS' ROW, {^At the East End of the Old Market. .J;;^ FOR sale as above, a variety of the most approved single and double mould board Ploughs, C. Howard's improved cast irou mould board, with wrought Shear and Coulter, Cast iron do. do. do. J. Seaver & Co's. do. do. Bigelow's wrought do. do. Warren's much approved common Ploughs, Sinclair's side hill do. do. do. Howard's much improved Cultivator, an implement highly esteemed for its use and utility in drill cul- tivation, Beatson's Scarifier, Rennet's Broad Cast, Seed Sowing Machines, calculated for large and small seed, Eastman's improved Straw Cutter, Safford's new invented Straw Cutter, much improved. Common hand Straw Cutters, An English Vegetable Cutter, Stevens' patent steel spring Hay and Manure Forks, Steel spring Potatoe Hoes, English cast steel broad Hoes, Common and steel do. do. A great variety of Garden and other Agricultural Implements. (f^ Tree Brushes, for destroying Caterpillars, an article highly recommended for that purpose, hy the Hon. Timothy Pickering, whose communication on this subject appeared in the New England Farmer, April 26, page 308. May 3. AGRICULTUKAL t HORTICULTURAL SEEDS. JOSEPH BRIDGE, No. 25, Court Street, has just received, per London Packet, a variety of GARDEN' AND FIELD SEEDS, which added to his former extensive assortment, makes the most complete variety, probably in the U. States. Among them — 300 lbs. Carrots, 200 lbs. Beets, 50 lbs. Mangel Wurtzel, 200 lbs. Ruta Baga, 30 bush. Peas, 100 Raddisb, of sorts; Lettuce, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Kale, Brocoli, Sweet Marjoram, Thyme, Summer and Winter Savory, Sage, Hysop, FenaiJI, Dill, Salsific, Scorzenera, Endive, Red and White Clover, Red Top, Foul Meadow — with an extensive collection of Flower Seeds, Bird Seeds, kc. CtJ-GARDEN TOOLS, viz : Pruning and Budding Knives, Pruning Saws, Transplanting Trowels, Garden Reels and Lines, Edging Irons, &c. Flower Pots con- stantly on hand. May 3. PRICES OF COUNTRY PRODUCE, &:c. [Revised and corrected every Friday.] ASHES, pot, 1st qual. . . pearl do. . . . BEANS, white, .... BEEF, mess, 200 cwt. . . cargo. No 1, . . . " No 2, . . . BUTTER, inspect. Ist qual. " 2d qual. small kegs, family, CHEESE, new mUk .... FLAX FLAX SEED FLOUR, Baltimore, superfine, Genessee .... Rye, best .... GRAIN, Rye Corn Barley Oats HOGS' LARD, 1st sort . . HOPS, No 1, LIME OIL, Linseed, American . . PLAISTER PARIS .... PORK, Navy Mess .... Bone Middlings . . . Cargo, No 1, ... Cargo, No 2, ... SEEDS, Herd's Grass . . • Clover WOOL, Merino, full blood,washed do do unwashed do 3-4 washed do 1-2 do Native .... do rulled. Lamb's, 1st sort do Spinning, 1st sort PROVISION MARKET. BEEF, best pieces .... PORK, fresh VEAL, ton. bush bbl. lb. bush bbl. bush lb. cask al. ton. bbl. bush lb. FROM D. C 185 00 180 00 1 00 9 00 8 5(1 6 50 13 10 15 MUTTON, . . . . POULTRY, . . . BUTTER, keg & tub lump, best EGGS, MEAL, Rye, . . . Indian, . . POTATOES, . . . CIDER, liquor, . . HAY, best, . . . lb. 1 8, 62 75 50 75 64 63 42 9 10 25 65 3 00 12 00 14 00 12 00 11 00 2 25 8 55 4, 4 40 3y 5:'. 50 doz. bush bbl. ton. TO D. C. 190 00 185 00 1 10 9 50 8 75 7 00 14 11 IC 9 9 90 7 75 7 C7 5 00 80 67 65 45 1 12 50 00 3 25 12 50 14 50 12 50 11 50 2 50 9 65 48 55 4a 40 60 8 10 8 9 e S 5 7 10 12 15 1(5 16 18 11 12 85 90 75 80 37 42 1 50 2 25 20 OP 22 00 •520 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. fp^ The following flower of Parnassus is as fragianl as the fruit it celebrates. To the Hon. the Speaker B»»***w, who presented nine incomparable Peaches, to be divided between three Sisters. '= How beautiful ! how rich 1 how very fine ! Sisters see this ; sec that 1 O, how divine ! If Eve with fruit like thii did Adam treat. Sure none can blame the man " thai he did tal." Such, " Mr. Speaker,^'' were the grncious speeches Made by the .Sisters over your nine peaches. I merely said " Men by their fruil are knonn, .Indlhis is in the Speaker clearh/ sheu-n." The sisters then cuUM each their peaches three, ■Without reserving even one for me. On that / moved, what did not seeni unfair. To take from each a peach, and leave a pair. But calling me " lo order'''' one and all, I was obligM my motion to recal. Yet still they " order" cried with all their might. Until the " Prer^us Question'''' brought them right. " Thanks to the Speaker," then was the decree, And this most pleasant task impos'd on me ; No sooner " Mr. Speaker'''' said than done, A " role of thanks'''' was passed to you " A'em. Con.'''' And next year should your peaches prove as fine. Again " shew cause" and PU invoke the nim-. Lynn Mineral Spring Hotel. I. T. S. I do not know a practice which I should more recommend than early rising, whether devotion, health, beauty, or improvement of the mind, were the objects in view. How cheerful and how animated are tlie meditations of the morn- ing ! What a delightful bloom tlushes into the checks from its balmy exhalations I ^Vhat an unspeakable cheerfulness glides into the soul, from hearing the devotional matins of the lark, and from beholding the new-born scenery of nature ! How necessary is such a regimen to preserve that sweetness of complexion and of breath which are the very essence and perfume of beauty ! When people think of accounting to God for the talents they have received, they overlook the hours which are lost in morning sloth and unreasonable indulgence. 1 liave in- ured myself for many years to this habit of ear- ly rising. In the spring months of April and May particularly, 1 grudge every moment that is wasted after live. 1 consider it as a rude ne- glect to all those sweets which opened to sa- lute me, and always find ao much more deduct- ed from the firmness of my health, and the vigor of my understanding. — Bemtcfs Letters. ENGLISH BULL. FOR sale or to let, an IMPORTED BULL of 3 1-! years old, of the Normandy breed (similar to tliii Jllderniy., only rather larger sized) and considered thi' richest ililkers in Europe. This animal is large, an< very finely shaped, a brindle color and perfectly gentle Price, One Hundred and Fifty Dollars ; or if well pla ceJ, will be let on equal shares for two years. Also— TWO BULL CALVES, from first rate Milk ers. and a FULL BLOOD ALUERNEY BULL, ownt. by the Massachusetts Agricultural .Society — will be soli for Fifteen Dollars each, if taken away immediately. .\pply to JOHN PRINCE, at his Farm on Jamaic Plain. Roxbury, 19th April, 1823. The li'cather. — It is a luxury to live in so de- lightful a season as we have enjoyed for a week past. In so bland an atmosphere — under so bright a sky — the affections must bloom and expand like the flowers. Good as you may be, taking the average of the year, you ought to be better and more amiable now than at any other period. " Chief, lovely Spring, in thee and thy soft scenes The smiling God is seen." Spring is the darling offspring of Deify. And it repays his kindness by the fragrant worship of new-born flowers, and the sweet anthems of the birds of music. It is the season of inno- cence— when maiden roses look for the first time on the earth which they adorn. It is the season of love — when zephyrs allare him to enchanting beauty. It is the season of happi- ness— when we transplant to our own bosom the sweets that surround us, and, discarding every annoying sentiment, make the mind as gay within as the garden is without. " Earth in her rich attire Consummate, lovely smiled.'' [Ch. Courier. In Holland, that beehive of industry, every available source of service is made use of, so that dogs, and even goats, are not suffered to pick the bone or eat the bread of idleness. — Most of the little wares and merchandizes, veg- etables, turf, and particularly fish, are drawn by the former, who are properly harnessed for the occasion io little carts, and according as the carts vary in size and are laden, the dogs arc put to in proportion, so that sometimes there are six dogs harnessed to a cart, three abreast, whilst the goats are yoked to infantine wagons and cilrricles, to air and exercise little children. It is really astonishing to see the weight these animals will draw ; nothing can exceed their docility ; and for their labor, the Hollander (who is remarkable for his humanity to the dumb creation) feeds them well, and lodges them in bis own house very comfortaljly. — Owing to the great care paid to their dogs, the canine madness seldom appears among them. On Sundays they are permitted to re- fresh and enjoy themselves, and never show any disposition to escape from their lot. Every body has heard of Irish Bulls, but it is seldom we have a genuine blunder of this sort, on as good authority as the following : In 1808, the present Capt. Woolsey, the late Capt. Gam- ble, and Mr. James Cooper, of this city, then all of the Navy, with the late Col. Chrystie, and Col. Gardner, now of this city, of the Army, formed one mess, at Oswego, on Lake Ontario. The servant of Colonel (then Ensign) Gardner, was an Irish lad of about twenty, who was known in the mess by the name of Sligo. On one occasion, when the gentlemen were drink- ing their tea, the fire tiill down, and a coal lodged in a large crack, where it soon produced a blaze. " Put out the fire, Sligo," said one ol the gentlemen. The lad seized tlie tea-kettle, in haste, but when he had it over the fire, he suspended his operations, though every featare in his face expressed doubt, anxiety and zeal. " Put out the fire," cried the head of the mess, in a voice of thunder. The poor boy wished to obey, but his brain was on fire itself. He thought he saw instantaneous destruction in the act. The dry, shingle edifice was in flames before his mind's eye, and forgetful of his cus- tomary obedience, he ventured to expostulate : he cried in a tone of awful remonstrance — "■ The water's war-r-m Sir !" — jV. Y. Com. Adv. Jinecdote of Dr. Mitchell. — It is said the cele- brated Dr. Samuel L. Mitchell, travelling in the stage, and happening to be the only passenger, was very sociable with the driver, asking him many questions, some of which the driver con- sidered rather philosophical, and not a little puzzling. The " knight of the whip," in turn, put the following question to the learned Doc- tor : — " Why, Sir, do white sheep eat more than black sheep ?" " Indeed," said the Doctor, " I was not aware that they did." The Doctor was proceeding iti a very philosophical manner to account for the ditTerence, by supposing the white sheep had less oil in their fleeces, than the black shoep. — "You are not right. Sir," said Jehu. '• Pray, my friend," said the Doctor, after a tew moment's reflection, " can you tell ?" " I can Sir ; there are more of them." BELLFOUNDER, Tlie Wonderful Xorfolk Trotter., imported Juh 1822, from England, ■WILL STAND THIS SEASON, 1823, At Twenty Dollars, and One Dollar the Groom. Thi money to be paid to the Groom at Covering. THIS celebrated Horse is a bright bay, with blacl legs, standing 15 hands high ; his superior blood symmetry and action excel those of every other trottio; Stallion. He is allowed by the best judges in Norfoll to be the fastest and best bred Horse ever sent out c that County. He has proved himself a sure foal getter and his Stock for size and substance are not to be sur passed ; they are selling at the highest prices of an; Horses in Norfolk. BELLFOUNDER was got by that well known, fas and high formed Trotter, Old Bellfocnder, out c Velocity, which trotted on the Norwich road, in 1806 Sixteen miles in one hour, and though she broke fiftee times into a gallop, and as often turned round, won he match. In 1808 she trotted Twenty-eight mtles in on hour and forty-seven minutes, and has also done man othi r great performances against time. liELLFOUNDER, at five years old, trotted Tu miles in sis minutes, and in the following year w; matched for 200 guineas to trot .Vine miles in thirt minutes, and he won easily by thirty-two seconds. H owner shortly after challenged to perform with him Se rntccyi miles and a half in one hour, hut it teas not a ceptid. He has since never been saddled or matchec Oi.D Beli.focnder was a true descendant from tt original blood of the Fireaways, which breed of Horst stands unrivalled, either in this or any other Nation. BELLFOUNDER is strongly recommended to th public by the subscriber, as combining more usefi properties than any other Horse in America, and wi stand, during the season, at his Stable in Charlestowi where all inquiries, post paid, will be attended to. SAMUEL JAQUES, Jr. Charlestown, Mass. April 25, 1823^ FRUIT TREES IN THE NURSERY. HANDSOME budded Peach Trees, but three yeai from the seed, j'et as large in general as can t reasonably desired, may be had at the Kenrick Pi.ac in Newton, at 33 cts. each. The Nursery contains uj wards of twenty of the best kind of Peaches which hav hitherto appeared in the Boston market. Also, 200 Currant Plants of two years growth, on moderate tcrtD:' if applied for soon: they should be planted out at foB' feet distance in rows four feet apart. Also, large En§j lish Walnuts, Butternuts, Catalpa, Mountain .^sh, &( Newton, April 26^ NEW GARDEN SEEDS. ale, by GEO. MURDOCK, No. 14, Markl| Square, a great variety of English and America GARDEN SEEDS, of the last year's growth ; consisJ ing of early Frame, Hotspur and Charlton Pease ; earll and late Cabbage ; early and late Cauliflower ; Swe< .Marjoram, Th)-me, &c. with every other Seed suitabl for a Kitchen Garden, .ilso, 40 lbs. Mangel Wurt2< or Scarcity— 100 lbs. Ruta Baga or Swedish Turnip-| a quantity of .Vrmack or Carrot. March 29.— 6w pOR TERMS OF THE FARMER. 0:5= Published every Saturday, at Three DollAW per annum, payable at the end of the year — but thosT who pay within sixty days from the time of subscribin will be entitled to a deduction of Fifty Cent.s. 0:5= No paper will be discontinued (unless at th discretion of the Publisher) until arrearages are paid. i NEW ENGLAND FARMER. PUBLI.^HEU BY THOMAS W. SHEPARU, IIOGERS' BUILDINGS, CONGRESS STREE'J', (KOLFRTH DOOR 1 ROM STATE STREET.) OL, . L BOSTON, SATURDAY, MAY 10, 1823. No. 41; SAVING AND MAKING THE MOST OF MA- NURE.— BY TBE EDITOK. (Continued from page 28i;.) ON COMP0ST.S. : was well observed by nn English writer, ; " the common waj- of spreading unmixed g over land, be it arable, pasture or mowing, by no means answer the end ; for the ferti- ig particles of dung being of a volatile na- \, are readily exhausted by the action of the and air. Most people think if they have w enough^ all is well, and vegetation cannot of goiny; on. This is especially the case in repairing of worn out grounds. But with I we can by no means agree. Dung ought to onsiJcrcd no more than a gooil ingredient to with earth and other sorts of compost.'''' In- i we have heard it asserted by an experi- id agriculturist that he actually nearly de- yed his grass in a mowing lot by spreading the soil in the spring a quantity of fresh ^ taken from his pi*-stye. " The dung,'' laid, " was of too hot a nature, and caused turf to be so scorched by the sun that the s was burnt up.'' it is true that fresh ani- dung, applied to plough-land, does not often luce so bad an efiect. But the manure in this , by mixing with the soil, forms a sort of post, and the dung is diluted with earth. we hear farmers complain, in dry seasons, their dung does more hartn than good, by easing the effects of the drought. But if it e well mixed before it was applied to the with two or three times its bulk of earth, ould preserve against the drought instead of easing it. A plant will no better grow on jck-heap than on a sand-heap, and in some s pure sand would be a better application icrease the fertility of a soil than unmixed "^e have seen many directions for making posts, but have no recollection of any thing e perspicuous, and at the same time more prebensive, than the following from Sir a Sinclair's Code of Agriculture. The utility of composts has been prored by experience of numbers, in various districts. ; subject may be considered under the fol- ing heads : 1. The materials used ; 2d. The i or crops to which it should be applied ; I 3. The etfects produced. 1. Materials. — Unslacked lime, Snd earth of jrent sorts, are the substances used. Quick is the proper stimulus for bringing the leers of a compost into action ; operating up- lla heap of earth in some degree as yeast lis upon a quantitj' of flour or meal. Enough Hht to be applied to excite a species of fer- Bitation in the heap, and to neutralize anv ""liiious mineral substances which may exist i lie formation and conveyance of compost nig attended with much expense, where cir- kistances will admit of it, horses, instead of Biual labor, ought to be empli^vf 1 in the prn- Ni of preparation, and the compost should be fipared in the field to which it is afterwards Icie applied. " It has been ascertained by a number of ex- periments, that two bushels of nnslacked lime are suflicient for each cubic yard of a medium quality, and as 80 cubic yards of earth are sulli- cient to manure an acre, 160 bushels of unslack- ed lime is the quantity required.* To obtain tills quantity of earth it is the practice of some farmers to plough the head ridges of both ends of the field, ten inches deep, and to collect one half of this, which can often bo spared without anv loss, as the head ridges are generally too high, in consequence of the earth accumulated in the course of years, from the plough being cleared every time it turns. It has been calcu- lated that where a hedge ridge is eighteen feet broad, 72 feet of it in length, ploughed ten in- ches deep, will produce 10 cubic yards of earth, and consequently the two head ridges will pro- duce CO cubic yards of compost for the field to be manured. " Composts are frequently made of various mntcrialsj as several sorts of earth, lime, old mortar and plaster, green vegetables before they run to seed, tanner's bark, sawdust^ soap ashes, dung, &c. It is recommended that in- stead of being- laid in regular layers, they should be mixed as much as possible in forming the heap. A fermentation is soon excited, and the oftcncr the heap is turned so much the more will fermentation be promoted,! 2. " Composts are peculiarly well calculated for grass-lands, and ought to supersede the of- fensive and wasteful practice of laying putres- cent matter on the surface of the soil, by which a very large proportion of its most valuable Component parts is lost in the atmosphere. — They are likewise of great use to moorish lands, augmenting their staple, and adding to them a number of valuable and enriching sub- stances. In regard to sandy or clayey soils, composts, principally consisting of articles dif- ferent from their general nature respectively, wil. improve their texture and convert them into loams. 3. " The effects of composts are highly satis- factory. In regard to grass-lands experience has shown that they at once improte their qua- lity, and check, for years, the progress of moss, or 2ven unprofitable gras»esi In thin moorish * Composts, liowerer, may be made with less lime, or without any lime, as will appear hereafter. And when quick lime and dung; are used, a layer of earth should be interposed between those two substances, for lime, if mixed with dung-, in the first sta»c of its putre- faction corrodes and dissipates its effluvia, and your manure may thus be consumed with but little more advantage than if it were burnt with fire. It appears that lime is a useful material, if used with hog-yard and slaughter-yard manure. See the statement of Col. '•'aleniin'-'s mode of cultivating Indian corn, No, 2'i, page 176, t It is doubted, however, whether there is much ad- vantage to be derived from often stirring a compost heap. Every time it is turned over, a quantity of gas, which composes the essence of the manure, will escape. •Mr. Bordley says, '■ often turning the compost may weaken it as a manure, and even check its fcrmtnt- i ig." .And Sir John Sinclair, himself, says (Code of \griculture, pp. 196, 197,) "•The old practice of/re- qufu'.ly stirring, turning and mixing the dung, without in general even covering the heap with earth when it was turned, ia now very properly laid asidej" soils, composts, prnporly and repeatedly appli- ed, alter the nature of the soil ; it becomes more fertile, retains its moisture better, and does not suffer by the summer's drought, which would otherwise burn up the crops. " It is a circumstance not to be omitted, that lime will operate in compost, upon lands that have been exhausted by the over frequent or too abundant ap[ilication of lime or marl, evert where it had not succeeded when used by itself. This is a strong recommendation of such mixed manure, as land may thus be cultivated to ad- vantage, that would otherwise remain unpro- ductive." A good compost rnay be ttiade simply by a mixture of surface mould and barn yard dung, without any particular rules for the quantity of each. Sometimes two parts of dung are used t'or one of earth; sometimes they are mixed in equal quantities, audit is not uncommon to com- pound two parts of earth with one of dung. — The use of the earth is to imbibe the gas or effluvia arising from the dung, while it is de- caying and putrescent. " The only error, into which the farmer can run, is to supply such an inconsiderable i|uantity of earth as will be in- capable of imbi!)ing the elastic and volatile par- ticles, and thus by his own mismanagement oc- casions a waste of vegetable aliment. One cart load of soil to two of stable dung is the least proportion which he should ever attempt to combine, and perhaps if the two were mixed equally, he would be compensated for the addi- tional labor and expense. " The whole art of composting, is to arrange the materials in alternate layers, — lo shake up the Utter and dung with a hay fork that it may lie loosely, — to cover the top and the sides with earth, and to give it a sloping iirection that it may cast off excessive moi.sture. Its height should never exceed four feet, or lour and an half; and its breadth should be such ti.ii a man on either side may be enabled lo fling 'he in- gredients into the centre without tramplin» on 'he heap; for compression in all cases retails the putrefactive process. If the mass, after be- ing compounded, is long in generating heat, urine, salt water, or even fresh water poured on the top slowly, that it may ooze downward, will bring it on with rapidity. On the other hand, should the process advance with too great violence, which can always be known by keep- ing a stick ill the middle, anjfdrawing it out occasionally for trial, restrained by turning mixing anew the ingredients. This will not only put a stop to the mischief, but facilitate a second fermentation ; and as fresh particles of earth will be brought into contact with the de- composing matter, the whole will be enriched and impregnated with the fertilizing principles. These general views are applicable to every species of compost. " Simple earth, although excellent for bot- toming and strewing over the pit dug near the barn, is of all materials the most unprofitable In compost dung-hills. When free 'Vom all for- i?i<»u ml.^cture, it con(;'.ms nothing on wliich the fermenting process can operate, il brings no 1 ai\va\s ue ivuuivii uy Keep- middle, and^drawing it out 1, the fed^ntation must be ng over the dung-hill, and 3-22 iXEV/ ENGLAND FARMER. addition to the mass of fertilizing matter. It isl tion of the gentlemen of the society to its per- thc recipient of the elementary principles, but formance, and drop me a line of the impression contriimtcs none of them itself; and as ftr, |it produces. The price of each machine is therefore, as its agency is concerned, it is un-|^10U — that is, we furnish the machine and give productive and unprofitable. A m:itted sward the right to use it for that price, the purchaser dragged with thickly entangled with roots, or mud from the bottom of ditches, and re| lete aquatic plants, are clearly preferable on this account, that, besides bringing earth to the com- fposition, they supply a large proportion of veg- <.lable matter. U'hcnever the soil must be carted to the heap, it is better to lay out the expense in transporting these enriching mate- rials, because they will not only equally absorb and retain the evaporating gases, but greatly augment the ([uantum of manure.*"' Mr. Arthur Voung says, in sub.'^tance, that the common way to make composts is to lay the several materials in layers one over the other, till a large heap is raised ; and it is advised by some authors, and the practice of many farmers is to make these layers from six inches to a foot in thickness ; but this he has found by experi- ence to be wrong ; for the fermentation raised in the compost is not strong enough to penetrate !-uch thick layers, especially those ot clay, or strong earth ; for after the rest have sufficiently fermented, and the compost is turned, these lay- ers rise almost as whole as when first laid, and must be broken by hand to mix them with the rest of the compost; whence arise two inconve- niences, one an extraordinary expense, and the other twice or thrice turning is sometimes ne- cessary to dissolve these large piecee ; and as a new fermentation is excited every time the compost is turned, the strength of the manure is greatly wasted before it is laid upon the land, where it is then incapable of raising any con- siderable fermentation, which is, he thinks, one of the principal uses of manure. paymg, of couase, the expenses attending the erection of the same, together with such inci- dental charges as may attend its transportation from the place where it may be manufactured. 1 am, with great respect. Your obed't humble scrv"t, SAMUEL SWAKTWOUT. .Veiv York, m Feb. 1823. The Flax Machine may be driven either by water or horse power. One horse is suflicient to turn one or more of these cylinders. The cylinder for dressing or threshing requires to be driven at the rate of about IGO or 170 revolutions in a minute. Any millwright will make the calculations for the size of the large wheel, when intended for wa- ter power. For horse power, our large hori- zontal wheel attached to the horse shaft, is 12 feet diameter — around this we put a strap, 5 or 6 inches broad, of harness leather — this strap runs round the shaft or axis of the second large wheel, upon a whirl 18 inches diameter. There is a wheel for a strap or band upon one end of this axis 6 feet diameter, over which another strap of the same breadth and thickness, as that vvhich runs over the large wheel, descending into the room below, and is attached to and runs over a small whirl tixed upon the axis of j the cylinder. This latter whirl is 8 inches di- j ameter. The above calculations are made up-j on the supposition that the horse walks three I times round his path in a minute — the diameter ' of his walk being 24 feet. ' drives the bees to the lower part of the hii and gives him an opportunity of taking \\\' quantity of honey he thinks they can spai, leaving a sufficiency for winter provisii Should it happen that the Bee-father takes t, large a tribute, or that an early winter preven the Bees from replenishing their stock as i. pected — they then are regularly fed with, composition consisting of sugar, honey, wine n water, boiled together, which is put in a -, cur under the hive. Your's, A GERMAX Curious method employed in France of proUii Trees from injury by the Spring Frosts. It is stated in the Memoirs of the Royal ;. ciety of Agriculture at Paris, that, from rep. ted experiments, frost, like the electric llu, may be drawn off from the atmosphere. ?| have its influence diverted so as to guard n particular object from its most pernicious etici An application of this principle is therein reeled to preserve from injury the tender hi soms of fruit trees which are so often cut I by spring frosts. Intertwine a thick hemp rope [probably straw or flax would do as m among the branches of a fruit tree in blos-^ and let the end of it be suspended so as to I niinate in a pail of water at the bottom of Iree ; should a slight frost take place dur :he night, the tree will not be in the least ^ree aliected, while the surface of the watci which the rope is, will be covered with a c of ice of more or less thickness, though wa (daced in another pail by the side of it will frequently, where the frost is slight, have ; en it. I •Letters of A°rricola. From lAe American Farmer. FLAX DRESSING MACHINE. To Wm. M. Barton, Esq. Dear Si'i — 1 beg your jicceptance of a sample of flax Or the inspection of the "Valley So- ciety •>f Virginia." The bleached sample is fror« flax that was water-rotted, the dew-rotting b«ing found not to answer for that process. Of (he dew rotted parcel, I must remark, that the quality of the flax is not considered to be the first — all of this year's crop being very inferior, and all of that which is dew-rotted, at any time, whatever the quality may have been previous- ly, sustaining so much injury from the process as not to entitleit to first rale, however well cleaned it may hm^ I cannot, therefore, present this as very tine in Quality, but beg your atten- tion to the dressing of it. This was done by a machine of small dimensions, simple construc- tion, and exceeding durability, invented by Mr. Rodman Goodsell, of Oneida county. New York. With this machine, driven by one horse, a man will break, hatchet, and dress, clean enough for the distaff, 100 lbs. per day — and with the same thresh 100 bushels of grain per day, the latter without one cent extra expense. As your coun- ty is celebrated for its wheat culture, Mr. Goodsell and myself have determined to send one of them to you in the course of a month. Should it arrive in time for your March meet- ing, please to do us the favor to call the atten- From the National Gazette. Messrs. Editors, — A "paragraph in your Ga- zette of Saturday, on the subject of Bees, indu- ces me to mention, that an easier method of gathering the honey than in India, and a more merciful one than what is generally pursued in! this country, is practised in Germany. There, ' this interesting little insect is cultivated to great long at these seasons in the same water, extent, frequently as an amusement, and very ' water will grow slimy, and sometimes sot commonly as a source of revenue. Many trja-i the malster should therefore watch the chat tises have been written on their singular natui-e. I of the water, and when he tinds it smooth domestic arrangements and the best mode of j oily to the touch, or inclining to smell or ta rearing them. Perhaps I put some of your' sour, it must be changed immediately, readers BREWING. A'icelies in .Matting, the observance of ■which j iticrease the profits of the Malster near per cent. In malting barley, the water should be cha ed oftenest in spring and autumn, when ■ weather is warm : if barley is let't to steep in mind of the renowned Baron Rtiin- chausen, when 1 slate that in some parts of Ger- many they are regularly taken to pasture ! ;'et such is the fact. I have seen on the great heath of Luneburg in the Hanoverian domin- ions, hundreds of Hives that were carried there from distant places in the spring of the year, for the bees to pasture on the heath flowers ; herdsmen attended them ; and in the autumn they are taken home again. The mode of securing the honey is this, ear- ly in the (all the Bee-father (as the person who cultivates Bees is called) protects himself with gloves and a kind of cap long enough to hang over his neck and shoulders, and which has a wire mask — and in dark rainy weather, or ear- ly in the morning or late in the evening, when all the Bees are at home, he turns the hive up- side down — a match made of dry herbs, such as rue wrapped in tow and linen, which burns without flame and makes a great smoke, is light- ed and the smoke blown upon the hive, which The common method of changing it, is f. to draw off that in which the barley was ste ing, and then by pumping or pails full, till cistern again : but this is a bad way, tor wl the water is drawn off the barley lies clos and is apt to heat, which causes great dama It is therefore recommended to get a hogsh< of water in readiness near the cistern, wh should be thrown on the barley the instant i tirst water is drawn off; and as a hogshead water is sufficient to wet eight bushels of b ley, as many hogsheads, save one, should be terwards added, as the cistern will wet. River water is the best, and hard spring \ ter is the worst: in general the water t soonest lathers should be preferred. A thin-skinned fine-coated barley is the b for making malt ; it need not be very full- died, but should be quite ripe. Barley that has grown on land highly man" ed is not so good as that produced on a hi moderately rich without manure ; and if i I NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 32.3 in 'fn if K ilil is very luxuriant, either by nature or art, barley will not be tit lor the malster. t is a good practice to give malt as much 'ing as possible on the floor ; it does not ink so much as on the kiln, and acquires no eign taste ; when it comes to the kiln, the in the furnace should be moderate but equal. ."' Jrown malt, used in the same proportion a? e, will not make the strongest beer ; but the e malts that are slack dried, make a raw un- olesome liquor that will not keep, tfalsters should never buy barle}' grown on ifii, ious soils, or even dilTerent tiehls, because kernels will spire at diflerent times ; they uld therefore never buj' tythe barley. A Ister having bought one hundred quarters lythe barley, without knowing it, soon dis- 'ercd it in the malting, and sold it to a hog- der for eight-pence a quarter less than he ■e, as the least loss he should incur by his gain. To discover whether malt has been made of fed or unripe barley, throw a couple of hand- of it into a bowl of water ; stir it gently, ! the grains that have not been malted will k, the half-malted grains will have one end k, and so swim in a perpendicular position, I those that are perfectly malted will swim. le best barley will not malt equally well at times. As soon as housed, before it is in eat, and after the sweating Is over, it will It well, but not while it Is in sweat. iarley that has been got in early in a very season malts hut indifferently ; but if the le barley is left abroad till rain falls on it to sen the husks from the kernel, it will malt II, and yield a large increase. thod of extracting the virtue of Hops in Brewing. The usual method is to put in hops without ■ prepartion into the strong beer or ale wort ; consequence is, the richer and better the rt is, the less It will partake of the essence the hops. The rich fat wort sheathes up ; pores of the hop, and, as it were, embalms : leaves, so that the beer or ale wort can ex- ct scarcely any part of the necessary quality the hop ; but when it is put into the small ;r wort, a fluid of a more thin nature, there ! pores are unsheathed, and the small beer is idered too bitter; therefore the hops, before :y are put into the strong drink, should be eviously soaked in a pail of hot water. To confirm the truth of this observation, te a quarter of an ounce of the best green 1, and instead of pouring on it simple boiling iter, let the water have the same quantity of gar boiled in it that would be necessary to eeten so much tea when made, and you will d that the sweetness of the water will pre- nt its extracting the grateful bitter of the tea. Cheap and easy Method of Brewing. ^One bushel of malt, and three quarters of a lund of hops will, on an average, brew twen- gallons of good beer. For this quantity of malt, boil twenty-four .lions of water; and havmg dashed it in the pper with cold water to stop the boiling, ;ep the malt (properly covered up) for three jurs; then tie up the hops in a hair cloth, and >il malt, hops, and wort, all together, for three larters of an hour, which will reduce it to 'Out twenty gallons. Strain it off, and set it ' work when luke-warra. In large brewings this process perhaps would not answer, but in small ones, where the waste is not so great, and where the malt can be boil- ed, the essence is sure to be extracted. Best method of making Sage Cheese. Take the tops of young red sage, and having pressed the juice from them by beating in a mortar, do the same with the leaves of spinach and then mix the two juices together, .\fter putting the rennet to the milk, pour in some of ibis juice, regulating the quantity by the de- gree of color and taste it is intended to give to the cheese. As the curd appears bi'eak it gently, and in an equal manner ; then, emptying it into the cheese-vat, let it be a little pressed, in order to make it eat mellow. Having stood lor about seven hours, salt and turn it daily for four or five weeks, when it will be fit to eat. Tlie spinach, besides improving the flavor and correcting the bitterness of the sage, will give it a much finer color than can be obtained from sage alone. East/ method of restoring and rendering legible, damaged Parchment Deeds, iVc The following mixture, it is asserted, will make writing which has been obliterated, faded, or sunk, either on paper or parchment, imme- diately legible. Bruise two or three nut-galls, infuse them in half a pint of white wine, and let the bottle stand for two days in the sun or any other equally warm situation; then wash that part of the parchment or paper which is wanted to have the writing recovered, by means of a sponge or soft brush dipped in the vinous infusion; and the purpose will be immediately answered, if it be sufficiently strong. Should that not happen, its powers must be increased by an additional quantity of galls ; and, perhaps, in some instances, stronger heat, and even stronger wine, may also be necessar\'. I J^lEDIC^iL IXTELLIGEXCER. The first No. of a weekly paper, called the " Boston Medical Intelligencer," was published on the 30th ult. by Mr. R. M. Peck. It is edited by J. V. C. Smith, M. D. Lecturer on Anatomy at the Berkshire Medical Institution. It is stated in the Publisher's advertise- taent that " It is the object of this paper to give op- portunity of communicating, without delay, histories of recent cases, developing the character of prevailing diseases ; to furnish seasonable information on subjects which regard public health ; and to present the reader with a variety of miscellaneous matter on subjects re- lating to medicine, that many times is withheld from the public in general in consequence of the scarcity of the works from which they are obtained." The following extract from the paper which is the subject of this notice, shows the evil consequences of burying the dead in the midst of populous cities ; a custom which we are sorry to see retained with so much pertinacity by certain rulers and elders thereof. This method of poisoning the living, in order to shew our affection for the dead, is carrying onr veneration for the tombs of our ancestors to an extreme which nothing but superstition can sanction. SEPULTURE. At Sauliou, Burgundy, a mild catarrhal fever was epidemic. A very corpulent bodj was buried in the Church of St. Saturnin. Twenty- three days after, a pit was opened by the side of that, in which was the corpulent body, to bury a worn m who died in child-bed, tmder this fever. A most fetid odour immediately filled the church, and aflected all who entered. In putting the woman's coffin into the pit, some sanies issued — its odour strongly affected the assistants. Of one hundred and seventy people who entered the church, from the o|icning of the pit till the burial, one hundred and forty-nine were attack- ed with a putrid malignant lever, somewhat re- sembling the epidemic. Its nature and intensi- ty left no doubt it owed its malignity to the in- fection of the church. A malignant epidemic fever, caused by re- moval of the earth of the cemetery of St. Pe- ters C'hurch, also shows the danger of burials in churches and po|)ulous places. At Auvergne, an old cemetery was dug over to embellish the town : soon after, an epidemic apjieared which carried off a great many people, partic- ularly the poor, and in the neighborhood of the cemetery. Six years after a like cause pro- duced an epidemic in Ainbert, in Auvergne. The body of a very fat person was buried uu; der a foot of eaitli and eight inches of stone : the abundant vapours from it made it necessary to dig it up. Three diggers undertook it — two of them were attacked with violent vomiting, and left the work: the third determined to fin- ish it, and died in ten days after. The Curate of Ama-le-Duc, Normandy, after having breathed the infected air from the body he was burying, had a putrid disease, whigh re- duced him to the last extremitj'. The lord of a village, two leagues from Nantz, died. To place his coffin according to his friend's wishes, it was necessary to remove several coffins, among which was that of his re- lation. A most fetid odour spread itself in the church. Fifteen of the visitants died shortly after : the four persons who removed the cof- fins, died first : six curates, present at the cer- emony, hardly escaped death. The water of the wells below the cemetery of St. Louis, at Versailles, could not be used on account of its fetid mass. At Lectoure, IGO miles S. W. from Paris, the opening of a body was followed by an epi- demic. In digging vaults in the church of St. Eus- tache, Paris, it was necssary to move some bod- ies, and to put others in a vault which had been a long time shut. Children who went to cate- chism in the church, and many adults, were seized with difficulty of respiration, irregulari- ties of pulse, some of them with convulsions of the limbs. From 1776, burials In towns and churches, is forbidden in France. In 1810, an Archbishop of Aix in vain solicited of the government the favor to be buried in his cathedral. The following passage is taken from Camp bell's Lectures on Poetry, published In the New Monthly Magazine : '• Hesiod summarily explains the origin of evil, by throwing all the blame of it on the weak sex. Superstition has seldom exhibited man in a more Ignoble light, than as the au thor of this fiction — a wretched being, attempt ing to wreak his discontentment with life, on the character of a timid helpmate de^ev.dent on him, more alive ;o suffering, and doomed to suffer more, than himself." 324 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. From the last Paipphlet published by the Essex Agri- cultural Society. COI.. I'UTNAM'S FARM. Col. Jesse I'utnam's farm is situated in the North Parish in Dativers, about six miles from Salem. It contains about 111 acres; to wit — 44 of tillage — 10 of pasture — and 18 of wet or low-ground meadow. His wood kind is not in Danvers. Most of his tillage land is covered with orchards of apple trees ; of which about 1200 are large enough to bear fruit; and 400 have been planted, or grafted, from two to six years. He raises his own trees in nurseries ; which he renews from time to time, to supply his own wants. He considers the spring the best time for transplanting trees. In this oper- ation he digs the holes four or five feet in di- ameter, and two feet deep ; into which, in planting the tree, he introduces rich soil, that the tree may sooner recover from the check it receives in the transplanting.* By giving such dimensions to the holes, the roots may be regu- larly spread out in every direction, without being crowded. He disapproves of making nurseries in very rich soils ; because they will generally be transplanted to poorer soils, and so be sensibly and injuriously checked in their first growth. He thinks it better to transplant from a poor to a rich soil, than from a rich to a poor one. Most of his trees are grafted with winter fruit. In selecting his fruits, he is care- ful to choose the kinds that are good bearers, as well as of good qualities ; grafting over again, with other fruits, such trees as are not sudicient- ly productive. Col. Putnam has found it bene- ficial to young trees, to wash them in the spring with a composition of lime, clay, fresh cow dung and water ; as it removes the moss, de- stroys the insects that find harbours in the rough bark, and gives a smooth, vigorous and lively appearance to the trees. He has found it serviceable to vary the manures applied to his trees, according to the nature of 'he soil. He has frequently sown barley, or oti sr grain, around them, and when 18 or 20 inches tiigh, dug it in. This he has thought one of the best modes of manuring them ; and (as well as ev- ery other way of manuring) should estend to three or four feet from the tree, all round ; condnuing this practice at least until the trees have attained a good size, and are in a good thriving and bearing state. For several years past, he has annually brok- en up three or four acres of his pasture land, where principally covered with small bushes and moss, and planted the same with potatoes or corn ; and when laid down to grass found himself amply compensated. It has been his practice to plough, in the warm weather in August, the land intended to lie planted the ensuing spring ; at which time it is cross-ploughed. By ploughing when the earth is warm, he says the sod is better rotted, and more easily rendered fit for tillage crops, f'loughiiig late in autumn he thinks not advan- tageous. Thus cultivated one or two years, the lai\d will be in a good condition for English grain and grass. The same land will need to be broken up again, as often as once in six or seven years. " The raising and curing English hay (he remarks) occupies a large portion of our time ; * In planting trees, the roots should be covered with farth at no greater depth than btfurc their removal. and rewards our labor as well as any thing that is done on the farm : and the object of cultiva- ting other crops is, in a good degree, to prepare the land for this most important crop. The produce of his farm, in 1821 and 1822, as near as he could estimate the same, he states as follows : 1821. 1822. English Hay 24 tons 30 tons. Oats for fodder 3 do. 4 do. [VVetJ Meadow Hay 8 do. 7 do. Barley for fodder 0 do. 3 do. Indian Corn 70 bush. 150 bush. I'otatoes !iOO do. 300 do. Barley 70 do. cut for fodder. Onions 0 do. 150 bushels. Carrots 40 do. 90 do. Turnips 20 do. 150 do. Cabbages 10 doz. 30 doz. White Beans 2 bush. 7 bush. Green Peas for market 4 do. 50 do. Summer .\pples 130 do. 150 do. Winter Apples 600 do. 600 do. Pork 2000 lbs. 2000 lbs. Pumpkins 2 tons. 4 tons. He kept no particular account of his dairy ; but his cows, six in number, had done well. Col. Putnam's mode of making manure, he states as follows : " In the autumn I clear the barn yard, and carry the manure into large and compact heaps, in the fields where it is intended to be used. The yard is then covered with turf, loam, or pond mud, and such other mateials as are found on the farm, suited to making manure. These, together with the droppings of the cattle in the winter and stjmmer, and the relics of their fod- der, are mixed together in (he course of the summer, and made into fine manure. This 1 use principally on ray grass land ; spreading it from the cart, after the grass is grown several inches. " I have a cellar under my barn, in which the winter dung and urine of the cattle are col- lected. By mixing with these, in the cellar, meadow turf (or sod) coarse hay and corn stalks, the quantity is much increased. I also carry large quantities of materials to my hog pen. which is so situated as to be kept moist ; and from the industry of the swine in preparing this manure for the field, I find more benefit from them than in any other way." His usual stock consists of six oxen, gig'it cows, one bull, two horses, and several est. ■ cattle to be sold in the spring, and from six l twenty swine. Col. Putnam closes his statement as follows : " Some of my [wet] meadows have boon con- verted into excellent English mowing grounds, by carrying about six inches of gravel on to them in the winter. In the first place I divide a meadow into lots about three rods wide, by ditches — turning the turf bottom upwards- — and takmg care to have the middle of the lots the highest, so that they may be a little sloping to- wards the ditches. Plough the turf and gravel together, in the spring, and plant it one season with potatoes : the crop will be as good as in com- mon fields. Then carry on one or two inches ot top soil, and a good coating of manure ; and from land thus prepared, I have obtained ray largest and best crops of English hay," From the Morristown Palladium. Observing that a premium is offered by the .\gncultur;»l Soc:ety, (or the greatest quantity of butter from three cows, I shall throw togeth- er a few unconnected observations, for (he li efit of those who may be inclined to enter the contest. Although we all know what a good cow yet, for form's sake, it will be best to begin describing the chief points to be attended She should have horns wide apart and smoot thin head and neck, large dewlap, full hrea broad back, large but not fleshy udder, lo large teats, broad and flesh} buttocks. Ion" t and pliable. Good milkers are not very apt grow fat, as the food runs to milk. The size of the cows, and indeed of all ho: ed cattle, should be proportioned to the fertilJ '^' of the ground; large for rich, small for poo' for on short pasture, a large beast will have ' time to rest and ruminate. It has been sa that the longer any land has lain to grass, I better, and the more is the butter it will yiel vvhile the curdy substance of which cheese I formed, abounds more in clover, and new cold and moist pastures. 1 must complain that the anxiety of our hoi; wives to make butter, injures the calves, whi are killed so young that their meat resembl fish rather than flesh. This might very eas be prevented, and the animals suffered to li a month longer without stopping the churn. .M'ter the first week let the calf be fed w skimmed milk, thickened with two or thi liandfuls of Indian meal, daily, and give it twJ every day two balls as large as a hen's ei made of Indian meal, one egg, and a little Q; seed oil. An experiment was made of t calves, the one was permitted to suck thric( day, the other treated as above, and at the e of a month the last was the largest and the bt Attention to this method would not only impro our veal, but increase our butter. Calves fatt best in the dark, because light is an excitemi which renders them restless. The practice of milking thrice a day, esj cially when cows are in good pasture, is reco mended ; each milking will give almost as mu as if only done twice, for, when the udder full, the milk begins to be absorbed intc * body of the animal. This practice will be fou not only to increase the quantify of manure, I of milk. Milk should be poured into pans as soon possible, and if carried far, or much shoo never gives abundant or good cream. In order to find the richness of the milk your difl'erent cows, pour the first of the mil ing of each into glass tumblers, and when fl cream has risen, you can easily see which bea the thickest coat. Winter's milk, although Ic abundant, will be found to be richer than soi mer's. Milk gradually increases in richness, fro the first drop down to the very last. Take tumbler fiill of the first, and another of the las* you will find that the first yields not one teni part as much cream as the last; and the diffei ence of its (piality is as great as that of its quai tity. She who by careless milking, leaves ha a pint in reality, looses not only as much creai as the first five pnits afford, but also all thi part of the cream which gives richness and fl vor to the butter, and dries up the cow into ti bargain. A milk pan should not be above three incL< deep. The thickness and quality of cream said to be much improved by pouring the ne NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 32.: lailk into a pan jast taken out of boiling water, nd covering it with another of the same. ' It is said that a table spoon full of powdered jaltpetre, stirred, a few hours before churning, :nto as much cream as makes I'J lbs. of butter, jirill prevent the flavor of wild onion, and pro- jiahly any other taste o( foul pasture. I The cream that rises first makes the choicest .utter ; what comes afterwards is of an inferior luality. We may thus make two qualities ot Hitter. Butter cannot be made till the cream is somc- vhat sour ; if you begin to churn before that ime, half your' labor is lost in souring H, which rouble a little vinegar, or one day's keeping vill prevent. The following receipt makes a sort of cream lighly relished in every English farm house : Take common skimmed milk, beginning to our, put it into a churn, and the churn into a larrel, which till with hot water as high as he milk in the churn ; cover all with a thick ;loth, and let it stand six or eight hours. You ,vill then (ind a thick sourish cream at top, vluch is esteemed a great delicacy when eaten A'ith sugar. Underneath is a thin watery liquid vhich you separate from the cream as you .ilease, but the best way is to draw it oft" by a Spigot at the bottom of the churn. Nearly Kilfthe milk becomes cream, the goodness of ivhich depends upon the sourness of the milk jsed, and the heat of the water in the barrel. For these no positive direction can be given, jut a few trials will easily determine. AGRESTIS. NEW ENGL-IND FARMER. SATURDAY, MAY 10, 18'23. The Farmer^s and Gardener"'} Remembrancer. MAY. Plant more Potatoes. — Notwithstanding we are very friendly to Indian corn, as well as a variety of other crops which come into the cus- tomary rotations of our New England farmers, sti'l we think the potatoe on the whole, the most valuable plant, which the bounty of Prov- idence ever yielded to the necessities of man. In some situations, and on some accounts, we are inclined to the opinion that oats are a very prop- er crop to precede potatoes. A writer in the Massachusetts Agricultural Repository (vol. t, p. 331, 332,) says, '• It appears to us best, all things considered, that the first crop at'ter turn- ing over sward, should be oats. The reason why an oat crop should precede a potatoe crop is, that it not only pays well by its product for the year's labor, but chiefly because it enables ihe husbandman to deepen his ploughing, pre- paratory to the second year's series in the ro- tation." Mr. Henry Stevens, likewise, of Bar- net, Vermont, who appears to be a very judi- cious and experienced cultivator, in a commu- nication, published in our paper (No. 33, p. i^o8,) says, " I make oats, principally, and gen- erally speaking, my first crop in the line of ro- tation of crops ;" and it appears from the same valuable communication, that corn, potatoes or turnips were, generally, his second crop. Po- tatoes, however, will answer a very good pur pose as a first crop after land is broken up. We have already, in No. 36, p. 286, given pretty copious observations relative to planting potatoes ; etill, we believe something more may be prodtably said on tliis subject. The land should be ploughed deep for this crop ; because roots will commonly grow as low as the soil is stirred, and no deeper. Anil the more the ground is pulverized before planting the better the crop. Perhaps green sward ground ought to be men- tioned here as an exception. I have had the largest crops on such land even with one plough- ing, and that just before planting. 1 account for it thus : Potatoes want air ; such land affords it from the hollows under the furrows in no small quantity, both fixed and putrid, and in the great- est abundance towards the end of the summer, when they require the greatest quantity of nourishment. Those roots are accounted best for eating, which arc raised without dung. 1 once had a middling crop, by putting a handful of old weather beaten salt hay in each hill. New land burnt, produces excellent roots, and a large crop, without any manure but what was made by the burning ; sometimes not less than a peck in a hill.* It is a fashionable, and we have reason to be- lieve it to be a profitable mode of raising Indian corn and potatoes together in the same piece by planting rows or drills of each alternately. The advantages of this mode of culture are said to be these. Indian corn, in order to afford the greatest quantity of ears, requires to stand more widely separated, than it is when grown in the usual way ; while, at the same time, other plants of smaller growth may be raised in the inter- vals, without essentially injuring the growth oi the corn. In this way, we are told, that nearly one fourth additional product may be obtained. We should, undoubtedly, be ridiculed if we were to direct to soak potatoes in water before planting them. We shall, therefore, give no such directions, but merely state a fact. A per- son told us he planted some potatoes which had been accidentally water-soaked by water run ning into his cellar early in the spring. He could not say how long they were immersed in water, but he said they were not fit for eating, andhe apprehended that the vegetative principle was destroyed. He planted them, however, to- gether with some of the same kind, from the same heap, which had remained above water, and marked the hills where the soaked potatoes had been planted. The soil was dry, and the season, which followed, uncommonly so. The potatoes which had lain in the water flourished much better and produced much more abun- dantly than those which had remained dry. This accidental discovery, may, perhaps furnish a hint leading to a useful result. We would, at least, recommend to wet seed potatoes, in- tended for a dry soil, and then to roll them in plaister immediately before planting. There have been many complaints that the best kinds of potatoes degenerate by being planted m<\ny years in succession, and it be- comes necessary to seek new varieties. These may be obtained from seeds, but it is a trouble- some process, and we believe, not alwa3's suc- cessful. We are assured by a practical fanner, that by selecting the largest and finest potatoes for seed, for a series of years, he found the kind to improve under cultivation. Here then is an important tact to corroborate what is stat- ed in N. E. Farmer, p. 286, recommending the best and largest potatoes for seed. Mr. Bordley says, " if maize [Indian corn] is •1 feet apart in the rows, and the interval ground between the rows 7 feet, the clusters or hills of maize are 15.'J0, say loOO on an acre. Between the hills of maize, in the rows, may grow cab- bages or potatoes. One cabbage in that space ; or two hills of potatoes, a foot apart. Along the intervals turnips 10 or 12 inches apart; or ruta baga the same distance, sown in May be- tween the slope or space instead of cabbages." The intervals themselves may be sowed with turnips or ruta baga after the last hoeing of the corn, at any time previous to about the first of August. A writer tor the Bath Society papers, vol. iii, page 106, says, " The potatoe sets should be cut a week before planting, with one or two eyes to each, and the pieces not very small ; two bushels to an acre of unslacked lime should be sown over the surface of the land as soon as planted, which will effectually prevent the at- tacks of the grub." Another writer in the same collection, vol. vi, p. 346, says, " Lime, marie, chalk, soaper's ashes and rags, do but little good; and in some instances do harm." We have no doubt but quick or caustic lime, put into the hill at the time of planting, or in any way coming in contact either with the seed potatoes or the growing plants, will corrode and injure them. But if applied to the top of the soil at the time of planting the potatoes, it will become so mild or effete as to do no injury to plants, but in many cases produce a great bene- fit as well to the soil as to crop. And if quick lime effects nothing more than the destruction of insects, its application is highly expedient. Some other writers recommend lime as a ma- nure for potatoes on cold moorish soils. We * Deane's N. E. Farmer, Art. Potatoe. think it worth the trial, with the precaution^ mentioned above. Another British writer advises to cut large potatoes, when planted, into slips of about two Gun'"es in weight each, and says that "large po- tatues planted whole at any distance, and whole potatoes or pieces at a nearer distance than twelve inches in the row, send forth so many stems, that like cattle on over-stocked pastures, they starve each other, and the produce is dwarfish. Shoots, small pieces, and potatoes confined to one stem, or a very few, resemble cattle upon pasture not nearly stocked; which therefore, cannot make proper returns to the owner." He likewise asserts that " an acre of 'jerij large potatoes would require a quantity of seed so great as to deter any person from plant- ing them ; nor is it likely, that the productive- ness of potatoes will continue to increase with their size. There is certainly a maxirnmn and minwuim, a ne plus ultra in the quantity of pota- toe seed, as well as in every thing else. The middle sized of the human species, as well as the ditTerent species of other animals, are the best calculated to undergo labor and fatigue ; they are, therefore, more ])erfect in their kind, and consequently fitter to answer all the purpo- ses of their creation. May we not argue from analogy, that potatoes of a moderate size are the most perfect in their kind, and consequently the best fitted to send forth those vigorous shoots, which ensure a healthy progeny ? This reasoning, he says, is confirmed by a great num- ber of experiments made with whole potatoes, cut potatoes, and large and small potatoes," We do not wish to be responsible for the correct- I 320 NEW ENGLAND FARMEH. ness of this theory, but submit it to liie consid- eration of our readers. FiKi.i) Ci i.ixHK OK I'ahsmps. — " Tlic best soil for par^iiijis is a rich deep loam; next to this is sand, or they will thrive well ia a black, grit- ty soil ; but will never pay for cultivating in gravel or clay soils ; and they always are the largest where the earth is deepest. Dry, light land is suitable for them, but wet, stilTor hide bound land is destructive. It* the soil he proper they do not require much manure. The wri- ter hath obtained a very good crop for three .successive years, iVom the same land, withio' usjiig any ; but then he laid at the rate of forty rart loads of sand per acre upon a very sllfl loam, and ploughed it in, he found it answer very well, Irom which he concludes that a mix- ture of soils may be proper lor this root. " It is most advisable to sow the seeils in drills at about ll"! inches distant from each oth- er, that the plants may be more conveniently hand or horse hoed ; and they will be more lu.x- uriant if hoed a second time and are carefully earthed so as not to cover the leaves.'"* Parsnips are said to be a very valuable food for neat cattle, particularly for milch cows, which give milk in greater quantity and of a better quality when fed on parsnips than when supplied with almost any other food. They may be left in the ground through the winter, and arc of great use for feeding cattle and swine in the spring before grass is grown, and may be boiled or steamed, lops as well as bottoms, lor ("ceding liogs, till early potatoes are ripe enough to dig. Fokcim; vor.NG Fruit TRrts to be.4r. — Young trees may be made to show specimens of their fruit, sooner than they otherwise would, by making a cut in the bark a quarter of an inch wide, round the branch or bough which you wish to compel to bear fruit. The branch, however, is alvvays injured, and sometimes de- stroyed, by this process. The best and safest way to ettect the early exhibition of fruit in young trees or barren boughs, is to tie wires or strings about thera tight enough to impede, in some degree, the circulation of the sap. This is less likely to injure the tree or branch than cutting off the bark, and is said to be equally effectual in causing the production of fruit. * Bath Society papers, vol. iv, p. 252. A correspondent of the N. Y. Commercial .\dvertiser recommends the planting of sunflow- er seeds, believing the leaves of those plants, which grow very large, have the property of absorbing llic miasiiia or bad air in the atmos- phere, and consequently purifying the air. Vcrinonl Copperas. — Dr. John Lock has given to the public a description of the Copperas mines and manufactory at Stafford, Vt. from which it appears that four men had manufac- tured one hundred tons of copperas in a year, besides carrying on the business of a small farm. G/»c— \n ingenious cabinet maker (says a late London paper) has, from long experience, proved that i;lue made Irom India rubber, is very superior to the common manufactured kind of that article, when used as a cement for furniture, and never gives way or loosens in the joints, which is too often the case with the glue made from nnimal paste. P.\TERSON' 3I.\NUF.1CTORIES. Rejoicing in every circumstance which has a tendency to render our country independent of the rest of the world, and todevelopc its enter- prise, ingenuity, wealth and resources, we can- not but hail with delight such intelligence as the following, let it come from what quarter it may ; but we must, in candor, confess we enjoy it with peculiar zest when it relates to a por- tion of our native state, to whose prosperity and honor we are, from afl'ection and gratitude, most heartily devoted. But to the int'ormation : The ••• \oice of Passaic," published at Pat- erson, (New Jersey,) enumerates the following manul'acturing establishments in that town : Ten cotton I'actories, having now in opera- tion twenty thousand spindles. New factories erected, which, in about three months, will put in motion about twenty thou- sand spindles more. Making 40,000 spindles employed in spinning cotton. Three extensive woolen factories. Two large duck factories, supplying in a great measure, our navy with canvass, and working up more than a ton of flax per day. Three manufactories of machinery, one ef which is stated to be the most extensive and complete in the United States. Three very extensive bleach greens. Two brass and iron founderies. Besides paper, grist, saw, rolliDg, and slitting mills, &,c. Sic. With the great natural advantages which Pa- terson possesses, and the prospect it has of de- riving, at no very distant day, immense benefits from the contemplated canal from the Dela- ware to the Hudson, we may venture to pre- dict that it will soon attain to a degree of use- fulness and importance of which every Jersey- man may well be proud. — True American. FOREIGN. LATEST FROM EUROPE. The packet ship Corinthian, in 35 days from Liver- pool, has arrived at New York, bringing London pa- pers to the 22d, and Liverpool to the 2jth of March, inclusive. The following summary of their contents i« from the New York Daily Advertiser : The most important intelligence brought by this vessel is, that hostilities had not commenced between France and Spain. There appears to have been the same show of preparation, the same engagedness to be- gin the war at some time or other, but no beginning, the French army had not, at the latest advices, enter- ed Spain. By an article in the Courier of the 2'2d, taken from a Bayonne paper of the luth of March, it is said, " Almost the whole of the Duke of AngouUme's establishment is here, and his Royal Highness is ex- pected before the end of the month." On the evening of tlie 19th uj .March, I^ord Liverpool, in answer to an inquiry by the Marquis of Lansdown, said, " that the hopes which he in common with other persons enter- tained with regard to the maintenance of peace, had considerably abated ; but it was not stated, neither could it be so stated consistently with truth and fact that all hopes were extinguished." Mr. Canning had previously said in the House of Commons, " that the liope of avoiding war, which his Majesty's government liad previously cherished, was, if not totally extinguish- ed, at least very remote, and receding fast from view." The editor of the Courier adds — " It is remarkable that Lord Liverpool did not say a word respecting the po.s- sibility of this country's keeping out of the contest." ll appears by the accounts, that there is much of the bustle of preparation in France, which certainly, under difl'erent circumstances, would satisfy any body that war was inevitable. Such would seem to be the pro- bability ; but it is equally certain that matters ar- managed differently in Europe from what they wert formerly. Bonaparte's mode of proceeding was U march directly to his object ; if necessary to save time he traversed a neutral country without ceremony, and made his declaration of war by striking a decisive bloTi in the heart of his enemy's country. The latest fashion is more slow and solemn — much parade is exhibited, much talk had, and a great display made of arming colli cting and organizing armies, and in some instan- ces, after having marched and threatened and bullied atfair? have been hushed, and every thing blown ovei without a battle or even a skirmish. We are inflnt. ced more by the declarations of the Biitish ministn than by the appearances obscr\ able in France. X decree passed the Spanish Cortes on the 5th r March, directing the government to interdict all com mercial intercourse with Spanish ports to the Power who had withdrawn their ministers from Madrid.— These orders have been received at Cuba, whvf intelligence, and state that no other London -si't r than the Sun published it. Tlie previous accounts stated that the French army foiild enter Spain on the 14th of April. The King of Spain set out from Madrid for Seville, n the 20th of March, with a guard of 6000 men. DOMESTIC. At a term of the Circuit Court of the United States leld in Portland last week, Jedediali Elliot and Jonah Lustin, two old revolutionary soldiers, were tried on .n indictment for wilful misrepresentation of the amount if their property made under oath, in order to entitle hem to the benefit of the provision of the act for the elief of Revolutionary Soldiers. They had received heir pensions since the first establishment of the act. t appeared on the trial that they both held leases of mall farms in the town of Windham, the place of their esidtnce, a knowledge of which they had suppressed. t was thouglrt by many that the false representation ras rather the result of ignorance than of premeditated ■rime. Austin was acquitted, and Elliot received the allowing sentence, viz : " that he should pay a fine to he United States of ten dollars, be imprisoned sixty ays, and stand in the pillory one hour." The latter art of this punishment, the Court observed, was im- •osed because it was absolutely required by statute -, ut the District Attorney was requested to use his in- uence with the President to obtain the remission of hat odious part of the sentence, which the Court had 0 power to omit or avoid. 7%e Mummy. — Messrs. Van Lennep & Co. of Smyr- .a, have sent to this city, by Capt. Edes, a Mummy. — t is from Thebes ; and we understand is to be exhibit- ed for the benefit of the Dispensary and the General Hospital. Last week a Rose Bush, in a flower pot, was sold at inction, in this city, for $1 1,50. Salmon were sold for 51,50 a pound ; and the firrt one brought to market .hb season (weighing 21 lbs.) was sold for $40. Eggs are sold in Philadelphia market at 8 cents a lozen. Beef, in the same market, prime pieces, are lold at 12 cents a pound. A hogshead of Tobacco, raised in Frederic County, Maryland, and inspected in the city of Baltimore,. a "ew days ago, sold for $35 per hundred. Rye and Potatoes imported. — The Electra, a vessel rom London, brought one thousand barrels of rye to me house in Philadelphia ; and Potatoes are brought ;o New York by most of the vessels from Ireland. We iiope our New England farmers will soon be able to undersell the importers of the produce of their own fields. Fishing in Rhode Island. — For some time past (says the last Providence American) our market has been plentifully supplied with fish of various kinds, which have been readily sold at good prices. A few days since, one of our enterprising fishermen took from the river above Central Bridge 3000 pounds of fine bass at one haul. tl A Mr. Gent, of .ibbeville, (S. C.) upon a bet of 100 loUars, lately made in one day, between sun-rising and ;un-setting, seventy five bed-screws, with their taps -omplete, equal in size and quality to those usually imported. — — A house in New York was lately set on fire by an E^st India Cracker fired by a lad from an adjoining vard. were mounted by the British tars, who pursued the vil- lains into the woods. Among the pirates were two A- mericans, one of whom being wounded and unable to escape, in a fit of desperation r.an his sword through his heart, and the other to avoid the fate which impended over him, cut his throat in the presence of the sailors. It is asserted that the schooner Fox has reported, that " they had taken and destroyed the greater part of the pirates on that part of the coast." At the date of the ailing of his Majesty's frigate Athol, which we be- lli vc is the latest arrival from that quarter, one vessel only, the Pilot, had been taken from the pirates, and but one man captured in her. There is no truth in the story of the British gun brig haiiug been captiued by the Pirates." Lieut. Com. Henley, late of the Ferret, has returned from the West India station, on account of ill health. He states that Com. Porter had made such arrange- ments, as would enable him to receive information from, and communicate with every detachment of his squadron with the greatest expedition ; and their cruising ground had been so allotted, as to aflbrd the gieatest security to merchant vessels, by convoy, and the most prompt assistance in cases of aggression from the Pirates, to all vessels going to or coming from ports on the North side of Cuba. Lt. H. also states, that the rendezvous at Allenton was very pleasant, and the soil capable of producing every description of vegeta- ble productions, though the water was not good. A navy hospital was to be erected, under the orders of Surgeon V\ illiamson, about two miles from Allenton, where the water was pretty good. A hotel was also to be established by one of the proprietors of the Isl- and.— Gazette. John Dodge, Esq. of the house of Marple, Dodge & Co. established at Cape Haytien, has arrived passen- ger in the Victory, from that place, and reports favora- bly of the peace, prosperity, and general happiness of Hayti ; he speaks in the highest terms of the justice and magnanimity with which the government is adminis- tered ; and of the great influence which the example of the public officers had given in the encouragement and promotion of Agriculture.^the rich and golden mine of the country. He also states, that the recent proclamation of President Boyer, interdicting all com- mercial intercourse, or trade, with the neighboring Isl- ands, will operate greatly to the advantage of the U. States, as being the nearest foreign country, and capa- ble of supplying the Haytiens with every article they may want, either of foreign or home fabrics, or the productions of our native soil, at the earliest moment. A Pelican was wounded and taken in the Alleghany River, at this place, on Tuesday last, by Mr. Sheldon. He shot at it from the Bridge, broke one of its wings, and took it in the river, below the Point. This im- mense bird measures from the tip of the bill to the end of the tail, 5 feet 1 1-2 inches ; from tip to tip of the wings, 8 1-2 feet ; in height of the body 1 foot 7 inches ; neck 1 foot 6 inches long ; head and bill 1 foot 8 1-2 inches ; mouth 1 foot 6 inches ; round the body 3 feet. The pouch under Its mandible would contain 3 quarts. The bird is very poor, and not supposed to weigh 16 pounds. — Pittsburgh, Pa. paper, April 25. Yellow Jessamine f overs poisonous. — On Sunday the 20th April, a small child of Mr. James Broughton, of Edenton, N. C. aged about two years, after eating a number of Yellow Jessamine Flowers, died in the space of half an hour. In a minute or two after eating them she became perfectly blind, and expired in the time above stated. It is stated in the Nantucket Inquirer, that there were imported into Nantucket and .New Bedford, dur- ing the year 18'.!1 and 1822, comiirifing the average term of one whaling voyage, in about a hundred ves- sels owned in those ports, upwards of 4, ;itO,000 gallons of whale and spermaceti oil. Mr. English, the American traveller in Egypt, re- lates the following circumstance. " I saw to day," he says in his journal, " a singular mode of navigiiting the river (the Nile ;) a man who apparently was travelling down the river wilh his whole family, had placed his youngest wife and her two young children on a raft made of bundles of corn- stalks (stems of llolcus) lashed together; he himself warn by its side to guide it, while he Icept /lis old inj'c a siciinming and pushing it by the stern ; and in this way they proceeded down the river." TREE BRUSHES. FOR SALE, at the Agricultural Fstablithment, No. 20, Merchants' Row, opposite the east end of the Old Market, a fi vv of (hose highly and much approved TREE BRUSHES, for destroying Caterpillars, and which have been so highly recommended by the Hon. Timothy Pickering, in his communication to the Essex Agricultural Society. May 10. PRICES OF COUNTRY PRODUCE, &ic. [Revised and corrected every Friday.] ASHES, pot, 1st qual. . . . pearl do BEANS, white, BEEF, mess, 200 cwt. . . . cargo. No 1, . . . . " No 2, . . . . BUTTER, inspect. 1st qual. . " 2d qual. . small kegs, family, CHEESE, new milk .... FLAX FLAX SEED FLOUR, Baltimore, superfine, Genessee .... Rye, best .... GRAIN, Rye Corn Barley Oats HOGS' LARD, 1st sort . . HOPS, No 1, LIME, . ■ OIL, Linseed, American . . PLAISTER PARIS .... PORK, Navy Mess .... Bone Middlings . Cargo, No 1, . . . Cargo, No 2, ... SEEDS, Herd's Grass . . • Clover WOOL, Merino, full blood,washed do do unwashed do 3-4 washed do 1-2 do Native .... do Pulled, Lamb's, 1st sort do Spinning, 1st sort PROVISION MARKET. BEEF, best pieces .... PORK, fresh VEAL, MUTTON, POULTRY, BUTTER, keg & tub . . . lump, best . . . EGGS MEAL, Rye, Indian, POTATOES, CIDER, liquor, HAY, best, FROM TO D. C. D. C. ton. 185 00 190 00 175 00 178 00 bush 1 00 1 10 bbl. 9 00 9 25 8 25 8 50 6 50 6 75 lb. 13 M 10 11 ir, 16 7 9 8 9 bush 85 90 bbl. 7 75 G 00 7 75 8 00 5 Of' 5 60 bush 7'.: 75 67 72 63 05 40 42 lb. 9 10 12 cask 1 25 1 50 gal. 65 00 ton. 3 00 3 26 bbl. 12 00 12 50 14 00 14 50 12 00 12 50 11 00 11 50 bush 2 25 2 50 lb. 8 55 65 45 48 45 55 40 45 38 40 55 60 50 55 lb. 8 9 8 9 6 7 5 7 10 12 15 16 IC 18 doz. 11 12 bush 75 80 75 80 40 45 bbl. 1 50 2 25 ton. SO oc 221^ :528 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. FOR THE BEW F.SIil.AKD PA&IIKR. INVOCATION TO SPRING. [ Writlen during a Xorth-easl storm in Mat/.] l)aughter of Zephyr aud the Solar Ray, Thy fairy footsteps please to print this way. !t is a long; whilf since our clime you visitcJ, Though never laily has been more solicited. AVhy stand aloof, and veil thy beauties thus, As if thou wcrt too exquisite for us. Vet deijn to dwell with Afric's tawny train, While the swart Kthiop woos thee not in vaini \\ by dangling thus about the torrid zone, \\ hile Flora, Ceres, and I'omona moan Thy long; piotractcd absence? Miss, I fear Thou hast forgotten to adorn the year, As thou wert wont with wreaths of fragrant flowers, For thou didst give us nought but IcaScss bowers And sorry evergreens the first of Mav) Wherewith to celebrate thy holiday I Why should we shiver thus, week after week, Fxposed to Bortal blasts so very bleak. That while we shudder under their control, We think them missionaries from the pole, ."t^ent here by some Satanical device, In order to conrerl us — into ice? Is it for any sore neglect of ours. Thai. we're half frn^ai in the month ofjloutrs? ll so, accept this Ode upou condition It makes atonement for our sad omission ; Htceive this trifle for the donor's sake, 'i'he best peace offering he knows how to make. My almanac has prophesied thy coming. But sure the rogue who made the thing was humming, Lcagu'd with some selfish seedsman I'll be bound. Who wish'd our seeds all rotted in the ground. That so our horticulturists might hop To get a fresh assortment from his shop. The earth, the sea, the atmosphere and sky All seem to give our calendars the lie. Which call this Spring, when every body knows Winter still rides on every breeze that blows. Now half resolv'd, the other half aghast, Still shrinking from th' intolerable blast, Still shuddering at the gelid north-cast storm, Spring half discloses her seraphic form ; But like some moody half-pleas'd nymph appears, Whose smiles just lighten through a cloud of tears. sand one hundred and eleven ; and suffered other punisliments, such as whipping, imprisonment, &c. two hundred eightv-seven thousand, five hundred and twenty-two ; making a grand total of eight hundred, thirty-six thousand, sis hun- dreil and tit'ty-one. The greatest number of victims under any administration, was that of Ter(|uemada, the first Inquisitor General ; who presided from 1452 to 1 199, a long and bloody reign of forty-seven years, during which, eight thousand eight hundred victims were burnt, six thousand tour hundred died or escaped by flight, and nine thousand ninety-four suffered various other punishments ; being in the whole, one hundred five thousand two hundred ninety-four, or two thousand two hundred forty per annum. JV. Y. Statesman. Where true wisdom is, there surely is re- pose of mind, patience, dignity, and delicacy. Wisdom, without these, is dark light, heavy ease, sonorous silence. A great talker never wants enemies; the man of sense speaks little and hears much. The father of the British Lord Abington, who was remarkable for the stateliness of his man- ners, one day riding through a village in the vicinity of Oxford, met a lad dragging a calf along the road, who, when his Lordship came up to him, made a stop, and stared him full in the face. His Lordship asked the boy if he knew him. He replied, " Ees." " What is my name ?" said his Lordship. " Why, Lord Ab- ington," replied the lad. " Then, why don't you take off jour hat?" " So I will, Sur," said the boy, " if ye'll hold the calf" (til AGRICULTURAL ESTABLISHMENT NO. 20, MERCHANTS' ROW, 0:5=^/ the East End of the Old Market.^l^ FOR sale as above, a variety of the most approrei single and double mould board Ploughs, C. Howard's improved cast iron mould board, vril wrought Shear and Coulter, Cast iron do. do. do, J. Seaver & Co's. do. do. Bigclow's wrought do. do. ^^■alTen's much approved common Ploughs, Sinclair's side hill do. do. do. Howard's much improved Cultivator, an implement highly esteemed for its use and utility in drill cul- tivation, Beatson's Scarifier, Bennet's Broad Cast, Seed Sowing Machines, calculated for large and email !"' seed, ^ilis Eastman's improved Straw Cutter, Safford's new invented Straw Cutter, much improved^ ^i Common hand Straw Cutters, " ' An English Vegetable Cutter, Stevens' patent steel spring Hay and Manure Forks, Steel spring Potatoe Hoes, English cast steel broad tloes. Common and steel do. do. A great variety of Garden and other Agricultural Implements. (tj" Tree Brushes, for destroying Caterpillars, an article highly recommended for that purpose, by the Hon. Timothy Pickering, whose communication on this subiect appeared in the New England Farmer, April 26,' page 30«. May 3, line Ilioi Spanish Iiuiuisitinn. — A etatement has recentlj' appeared, of the number of victims to this ter- rible engine of superstition, cruelty and death, the bare recital of tvhich chills the blood, and iills tlia mind with horrid images of suffering humanity, under the most excruciating tortures, which awful depravity, disguised in the robes of religion, could invent. The table is extract- ed from a critical History of the dreadful tribu- nal, by .1. A. Lorcntc, one of its late Secreta- ries, and may therefore be considered as indis- putably authentic. It exhibits a detailed list of the respective numbers who have suffered va- rious kinds of punishment and persecution in the Peninsula alone, independent of those who have been its victims iii other parts of the world, for a period of tliree hundred and fifly- six years, viz. from 1452 to IfiOC, when the In- i]uisilion has existed, under the administration flf forty-four ln(|uisitors General. W'ithin that term, it appears tiiat in Spain have been burnt, thirly-one thousand seven hundred and eighteen : died in prison, or escaped by flight and were burnt in efligy, one hundred seventy-four thoii- BELLFOUNDER, The Wonderful JVorfolk Trotter^ imported July 1822, frojn England, WILL STAND THIS SEASON, 1823, At Twenty Dollars, and One Dollar the Groom. The money to be paid to the Groom at Covering. rW^ HIS celebrated Horse is a bright bay, with black M- legs, standing 15 hands high ; his superior blood, symmetry and action excel those of every other trotting Stallion. He is allowed by the best judges in Norfolk to be the fastest and best bred Horse ever sent out of that County. He has proved himself a sure foal getter, and his Stock for size and substance are not to be sur- passed ; they are selling at the highest prices of any Horses in Norfolk. BELLFOUNDER tvas got by that well known, fast and high formed Trotter, Or.n Belt.fobnder, o'ut of Velocity, which trotted on tb« Norwich road, in 1006, Siilcen milts in one hour, and though she broke fifteen times into a gallop, a7id as often turned rounds won her match. In 1808 she trotted Twenty-eight miles in one hour and forty-seven minutes, aud has also done many other great performances against timej BELLFOUNDER, at five years old, trotted Tiro miles in six minutes, and in the following year was matched for 200 guineas to trot JV/ne miles in thirty minutes, and he v\'ou easily by thirty-two seconds. His owner shortly after challenged to perform with him St !■- enteen miles and a half in one h and combed like cotton, is not only used f many of the same purposes, but makes an e cellent lint for wounds. .Mode of W'liilening Straxf. In 1S06, a new method of whitening stro was discovered in Germany. This consists steeping it in muriatic acid saturated with p( ash. The straw, thus prepared, never lur yellovi, is of a shining white, and acquires gre flexibility. =^ Preserved Stran-berries: To one pound of ripe strawberries put oi pound of powdered loaf sugar, laying alternat the very prevalent opinion in favor of cutting I ly on a deep dish a layei of each. Let the seed potatoes; and it has, in my estimation, the remain thus for twenty-four hours, when be * This Appendix was necessarily omitted, but will appear soon. To remore Ike stain of Cherry or Claret Wine. — Ap- ply a solution of sal Rinmoniac in It-mon or lime juice 10 tlio spot, and in a sliort time it will disappear. more force from its accordance with the gen- eral order of nature, on which all true theories must he founded. My object in making this short communica- tion is to elicit others on the (pieslion ot' more importance, and from sources more worthy of notice. The potatoe, although a humble root, is one of the most important productions in our whole system of agriculture. B. BuckJieUi, Maine, May 10, 1823. From the Portland Gazette. Recipe for inakhig good yellow Buiter. A gentleman from .Scotland has lately called at this othce and requested us to promulgate the following recipe for the benefit of those farmers who supply our market with butter. — He was led to make the suggestion in conse- quence of having noticed that our buiter made after the cattle are put to hay, is almost uni- versally white. He says that in bis country the dairy women avoid this by grating some orange carrots, the juice of which, after lieing strained, is mixed with the cream previous to churning. them in a sirup till they are all of a color, order to determine when they are done enoug cut one of them open. Then, taking them oi boil tjie sirup to the consistence of a jellv, 1 it remain till cool, then put in your strawbe ries, and let them boil up once, take them o and wiien cool, put them into a pot for use. Hop Beer. — For a half barrel of beer tal half a pound of hops and half a gallon of lasses; the latter must be poured by itself ioi the cask. Boil the hops, adding to them a te cupfull of powdered ginger, in about a pailfi and a half of water, that is, a quantity sufficis' to extract the virtue of the hops. When snf ciently brewed, put it up warm into the ca9 shaking it well in order to mix it with the m lasses. Then fill it up with water quite to tl bung, which must be left open to allow it work. You must be careful to keep it co stantly filled up witb water whenever it worl over. When sutTiciently wrought to be bottle put about a spoonfull of molasses iato eac bottle. Nh:W ENGLAND tARMt:!;. 33l taken the bees can be furnished without using in one case herbs, gloves, cap anJ mask ; anil From the American Farmer. IPROVEMENT UN THE CONSTRUCTION OF BEE HIVES. Kc-johurrjport^ March 3, 1823. hn S. Skinner, Esq. r)r.AR Sir — I observed in your paper, No. 48, jl. Jth,* an extract from the National Gazette, plate, and replacing it by another, tlst cuiiiinendins; the method practised in Germa- &c. of the bees is not disturbed. I end of ((atherinn- honov, as being easier than a drawing of the hives, a copy oi the schedule ,il of'lndia, and more merciful" than that of referred to in his letters patent, and making IS country, which induces me to think that part of the same, containing Mr. Blake's de- ,ike"s patent Bee Hive had never been exam- scription of his improvement in tiie conslruc- lii bv the writer — as honcv in the other lifting the hive to feed them from a saucer — and besides it is well known, that most of the white comb is put in the top, there- fore in taking out a box, as described by the by another, tl'.e bread, "ose vou writer — as a hive of th.it kind. can be taken if too much be tion o: the bee hive- " This improvement consists in the construe- on of a hive, so that any quantity of honey, om a Terv small portion, to nearly one third art of the whole, may be extracted at anytime nine or more, or less^ be so made, that they shall fill up the whole space between the bars mentioned, with any convenient thing inserted in the tops of the boxes, for the purpose of ex- ora the hive, without any serious injury to the tendinsr them at pleasure, and let there bo a aes, or without the destruction of any of the cover to be placed over the whole, in such a ves of those valuable little animals, and so that manner as may be thought most convenient." henever there is a deficiency of honey for the apport of the bees, or no more than is neces- iry for the purpose, it may be supplied or tak- n away at pleasure. Let a square box, of the ize of the common hive, or any other conve- ient size, be made of pine, or any other suita- le wood. Let a number of bars be phiced hor- (Signed) EDWARD BL.AKE I Would also observe, that I have several of those hives preparing, and am confident the}' will answer a valuable purpose. The cost is very trifling, and those who purchase the rights of veniling to the several states and counties, charge only about two dollars, to each farm or value ; and in which all the French Agricultur- ists, who know how to a|)preciate your useful lessons, would participate with me. " 1 have already met with some words, of which I do not well know the meaning ; for in- stance, 1 do not know what is the insect called leire ivorin. 1 have not been able to ascertain it, nor even to approximate what it can be, as it does not extend its ravages with us, to grairi sown on clover, when ploughed up, as is the case in England. I do not know either, what is the plant called rih grdss, of which 1 have not yet seen the botanical name given. I'er- ha])s, indeed, it may have escaped me while reading, and 1 may find it out in the continu;>- tion of the translation. " This work, to which, notwithstanding its importance, I am only able to devote a short time every day, will still require three or four months ; but I hope it will be published about that time; ••■ I beg that you will accept the expression Lf the respectful sentiment^, with which I have the honor to be^ Sir, your very humble and obedient servant, (Signed) Mattiiifu dl Do.mbeli.f. ainc." From the Trenton Emporium. HOW TO PRODUCE THE P-F.ST OF FRUlt. Take a scion from a free, the growth of the preceding year, of the choicest fruit to be found — cut this scion into pieces of two, three or four inches in length, dip the ends cut in warm rosin so as to prevent the sap issuing out — plant the pieces in soil suifnble for an orchard. A nuin- l)er of shoots will spring up; from these select the most thrifty for growth, lop down the re- maining shoots and cover them faithfully with earth, and in a short time they will become roots to nourish and hasten the growth of the tree. .An orchard may be produced in this man- ner at least two years sooner than from the seed. zontally, at about one third part of the distance, individual for the privilege. Mr. Blake's resi bom the top of the hive, so that the space be- ^^^ce is in the town of Hartford, County of ween each bar shall be about two-fifths of an Oxford, state of Maine, unless he has removed nch. Let any number of separate boxes, say within a few months. Respectfully, your obedient, * For the same article, see N. E. Farmer, p. 323. BENJAMIN POOR. TRIBUTE TO MERIT. JVaHv'uIioit of a letter from Monsieur de Doin- belle, President of the Central Agricultural So- ciety of A'ancy^ to the Right Hon. Sir John Sin- clair, Bart, dated .Yancy, 1th JVov. 1821. " Sir — I have the honor to inform you, that whom 1 consider to b€ the first agriculturist in Europe. " 1 have been occupied. Sir, for some time, in translating your excellent "Code of Agricul- ture." If any thing can contribute to raise Ag- riculture in France, to the rank of a science, which we could not till now pretend to do, it tm the 3d of this month the Central Society of will certainly be the publication of this work in .\griculture of Nancy, has inscribed your name French, being the most systematic, the most on the list of its Foreign Correspondents. The concise, and, in my opinion, the most perfect, Diploma shall be transmitted to you without which has hitherto been written in any lan- delay. I hope that you will not refuse the lus- guage. tie which your name would procure it, to a "In the course of this work, which is alrea- Society now in its infancy. dy well advanced, I have perceived more than •• I beg leave here to express all the satistac- once, that I should require information respect- tion which I experience, in a choice so honora- ing some particulars. If you would have the ble to the Society; and to add, how much I am extreme kindness to permit me to apply to you personally flattered, with the sort of brother- to obtain such information, it would be a motive . hood, which this gives me, with the person, for gratitude which I would well know how to i iron them before they are dry.— fit. touncr DANDELIONS. A medical writer in the National Intelligen- cer remarks : — "Dandelions have always been considered pcculiarlij useful in visceral obstruc- tions, particularly those of the liver, when eaten either as greens, sallad, or taken in ptisans. — They seem calculated, from their stimulant de- obstruent powers, to promote bilious discharges, and, from long experience, have been found_ highly elhcacious in all biliary affections of the liver. They are also good to keep the body open, and are diuretic and attenuant. In the drop>y, the dandelion has been known for ages to be of great utility. The ancients, says Willich, were better acquainted with the prop- erties of this excellent vegetable, than those modern practitioners who appear to be more anxious to introduce exotics, im|)orted from dis- tant countries, than to ascertain the qualities of those numerous medical plants which grovv in our own climate. I advi.se all who are troubled with bile, flatulencies, fullness of blood, and who are fearful of dropsy, vertigo, &:c. to make tree use of this precious gift of nature, the Dandeliou. Infonnalion to the LarfifJ.— Plaid stuffs will neither shrink nor lose their lustre, by the fol- lowing simple method of cleaning them. — Wash them with soap and raid water, and s«irc/i and 3;3i2 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. Ij'rom the last Pamphlet published by the Essex Agri- cultural Society. JOHN LEES' STATEMENT. Newbury, Nov. 19, 1822. To the Committee on Indian Corn anil other crops. Gentlf.men — In the summer of 1821 my fields, generally known by the name of " Boynton l-'ipl(l," which bad been for eight or ten years adapted to mowing, not exhibiting so good an appearance a^ usual in grass, I thought of mak- ing up the deficiency by raising a crop of pota- toes ; consequently, in the latter part of June, 1 mowed about three quarters of an acre, the produce of which, as near as we could judge by appearances, was a ton of hay of an excellent quality. 1 then broke up the land and planted the common white potatoes, pulling a small shovel full of compost manure into each of the hills. The manner of ploughing, planting, hoe- ing, &.C. was much the same as practised by the farmers in this vicinity ; and in autumn the crop of potatoes vva? rising two hundred bushels. — This success induced mo to try what I could do with Indian corn ; and late in autumn I carted on thirteen cart loads of com[)ost manure, which lay in small heaps until the following spring, when more of the ticld was broken np, and this manure spread over the land and jilonghed in ; then ploughed ag.iin and harrowed. The hills were made three and a half feet one way and three feet the other distant from each other, then a shovel full of manure, parlly compost and part from the hog yard, was placed in each hill, and five kernels of the common eight row- ed corn dro])pod in each hill. At the time of the first hoeing it was discovered that a red headed worm, measuring from a half inch lo one and a half inches in length, was committing sad depredations ; it was the opinion of many respectable men, that nearly one half was de- stroyed. This was replanted, but still the worms continued the destruction; and the season being far advanced, the defective hills were planted again with pumpkins, squashes, turnips, &,c. — The piece was hoed three different times, and at the second time the plough was used to faci- litate the hoeing ; and in autumn I harvested from one acre, measured and staked out by Mr. John Northener, one hundred and eight bushels and twenty quarts of corn, weighing fifty-nine pounds to the bushel ; seventeen hundred and fifty pounds of pumpkins, one hundred and titty pounds of squashes, and eighteen bushels of tur- nips. As to the precise times of ploughing, hoeing, planting, &c. I cannot ascertain, in con- sequence of my principal workman being de- prived of his labor by indisposition, and the multiplicity of my cares made it impossible for me to pay that attention which was necessary ; suflice it to say that my mode of management was much the same as that of farmers in gen- eral. I am, gentlemen, with much respect, your obedient servant, JOHN LEES. HENRY LITTLE'S STATE.MENT. Newbury, Nov. 5, 1822. To lilt Committee on CIrcen Crops. Gentlkmkk — The following is a statement of the cultivation and production of one acre of Indian Corn, raised by the subscriber in New- bury. The soil is a dark clay loam, and in 1821 was planted with beets ami carrots, and manured with six cords of manure made by a brewer in Newburyport, and produced about 400 bushels to the acre. In May, 1822, the land was twice ploughed and planted in hills, three and a half feet apart, with five cords of compost manure put in the holes ; four grains of corn were put in each hill on the manure and covered with a hoe ; the corn is the eight rowed kind, and weighed, when harvested, 58 pounds to the bushel. The green, or unripe corn, was not measured ; it was hoed three times, and late in the season ; the few weeds that came up were destroyed. The stalks were topped the middle of .September; it was har-' vested in October, and drawn lo the granary and measured, and there were two hundred and thirty-two and a half bushels of ears, and a frac- tion over. By shelling four bushels of ears, the estimate was, that there was one hundred and sixteen bushels and nine quarts of shelled sound corn. The expense of cultivating the above acre of corn, calculating labor at four shillings. Rent of land Manure May 3. Ploughing 9. Cross-ploughing 10. Planting and putting the ma- nure in the holes June 7. Hoeing 12. Transplanting or filling up the vacant hills, calculated to have 3 stalks in each hill 14. Hoeing the second time S9 OO 15 oo 1 50 1 50 2 75 1 00 67 1 00 67 33 5 33 HENKY LITTLE'S STATEMENT— ON TtRMP.'^ Newbury, Nov. 5, ICi^. To the Committee on Green Crops. Gentlemen — The following is a statement o the cultivation and production of a lot of En , glish Turnips, raised by the subscriber, in New \ bury. The soil is a clay loam, and had beei 1 down to" grass six or seven years; in 1821 cu r about one ton of hay to the acre ; the last o ■■, June, 1822, it was mowed, and cut about hal a ton of hay ; the ground was then ploughed and ten cords of compost manure (the princi pal i)art of the compost was marsh sod,) sprea^ on and harrowed in, then it was ploughed ii shallow ridges, three feet apart, and the see^ ' sowed, with a machine, on the ridges, then roller was made to pass over the same, and th' sowing was finished. It took one pound c seed to the acre; they were thinned to th distance of one foot apart in the row ; the were twice ploughed and hoed, and harveste ' the last of October, and the crop was six huD dred and eighty seven and a half bushels. The expense of cultivating one acre of tut ' nips on the above mode, calculating labor a four shillings per day. June 28, 29. Ploughing, harrowing, and sowing, ^6 G Sowed July 1. Seed and manure, 20 5 Thiiming, hoeing, &c. 5 3 Harvesting, 3 3 25. Hoeing the third time July 15. Destroying weeds Oct. 7, 8. Harvesting and measuring pS 75 Yours, respectfullv, HENRY LITTLE. N. B. The time of topping the stalks and getting in the bottom or but stalks, not in the estimate. The value of the stover [the stalks and husks] I think equal to one and a half tons of hay. JOHN DWTNELL'S STATEMENT— ON BEETS. The following statement of a crop of Beets, with the jnanner of tilling the land, is submitted with the claim for the society's premium, viz. The land in 1021 was in good heart and pro- duced a crop of potatoes, and i? part of the lot which enabled the present claimant to obtain the second premium last year. A reference to the statement then made, will give the com- mittee a full knowledge of it. The present year the land was ploughed May 1st and 2(1, eight inches deep, with one yoke of oxen, which occupied one day and a half; after which it was harrowed, and lilted for recoiving the seed, which occupied one day. The rcMiiainder of the time was four days sow- ing, two days weeding, two days hoeing, and eleven and a half days digging, topping, weigh- ing and housing the crop ; iu all twenty two days labor. The quantity of manure was one and a half cords, and the quantity of seed two and a half pounds. The crop, which was weighed, amounted to 29 tons, 0 hundreds, 1 quarter and 25 lbs. — or 580 hundred, 1 quarter and 25 lbs. All which is respectfully communicated. JOHN DWINELL. Salem, J\'nvrmber 11, 1822. $35 C The quality of the crop. They were large, but in consequence of the drought they are f only for stock. Yours respectfully, HENRY LITTLE. Si pi i h SILAS AND JOSEPH LITTLE'S STATEMENT- '' ON TURNIPS. k Newbury, Nov. 14, 1822. Iiij To John W. Proctor, Esq. Secretary of the Ei sex Agricultural Society. Sir — We have this year cultivated an acre o common turnips on our farm in Newbury, ani as we hope to obtain the Society's premium we are bound to make a particular staternen of the mode of cultivation. A small part of this acre was sown with fur nips the last year ; the other part has beei grass ground five or six years. Tiiis year that part which was used for turnips we sowei with flax, alter putting on it about live loads o manure, and pulled the flax as soon as the blow ing had fallen off; then ploughed it, togethe with the grass ground, so as to make an acre and after harrowing in part, carried on nine teen cartloads of compost manure, mostly sandj loam, to mix with our clay loam. The on! throughout its whole length is distin- 1 ces with which the Scots had frequent inter- iished by many pauses or intervals: and what course, particularly after the accession of James begun in one age, continues unfinished and iperfect in the next. It often takes many gen- ations to carry the system to its ulterior pitch improvement, and to conquer the various ipedmients w^hich are successively presented. The justness of these views could he shown )lly by a reference to the history of the ele- iiit arts, which have at once delighted and gnified mankind, and given grace and slabili- to social life. But it would be idle to wan- ;r so far, when we can arrive at the same il- latration by a plainer and more direct road : If the mechanic arts have been as sluggish in icir progress as the ornamental ; and among lose none has taken a longer period ingrowing p to maturity than that of agriculture. Though sprang up in the very infancy of civilization, ad has been more or less cultivated in every 2;e and country, it is still very far from pertec- on ; and in it there are questions of great mo- lent, both speculative and practical, which have ot been, and which perhaps cannot in the pres- iit condition of human knowledge, be satisfac- orily solved. Tillage and cultivation have not only had to urmount the obstacles which are common to all he other pursuits of life, but they are encom- lassod with extraordinary diflficulties, and are ;ept back and checked by some peculiar causes if retardation, Thus, if any remarkable dicov- 'ry were to take place in architecture, n ship- to th? English crown. If fgriculture, as has been now represented, be so 'ardy in its movements — if its prejudices be of so stubborn and immutable a nature — and if its discoveries be so difficult of transmission from one place to another, whence happens it that the brief annals of our agricultural career present appearances so utterly at variance with those which have occurred in other countries ? by what friendly agency have we been propel- ied forward at a rate of progression so prodi- giously different from that of other people ? and how comes it to pass, that innovation on receiv- ed opinions and established practices have en- countered here so little effectual resistance and trampled on every obstacle? Before answering these questions let me recal in a hasty manner the events of every successive year since the es- tablishment and incorporation of this Society, during which our whole system has undergone in some of its parts a partial, and in others a to- tal revolution. In the Session of 1819 the first grant of £1,500 was given to the Central Board — a portion of which was laid out in the encouragement of sum- mer fallow, of liming, and in the erection of oat- miUs. Although little was eflected in these ob- jects during the currency of that year, much at- tention was drawn to them, and a more than common zeal evinced to follow up the directions of the Society. The minds of men were arous- uilding, ia steam navigation, m road maising or ed, as it were, from a fatal lethargy — the eye tor auspices. The trials of the past year, im- perfect and scant}' as they were, had partially dispelled some ofthe doubts which shed a ma- lignant influence on exertion ; and a faint idea began to be entertained, that Nova Scotia with industrv might possibly prove independent in broad corn. The erection of oatmills gave some colour to the first dawnings of hope ; and the new scheme of prizes, by which was meant to be ascertained the quantity of white and green crops procurable from an acre, promised a fair opportnnity of contrasting the fertility of our soil with that of other countries. You all know the issue of that comparison, and the elevation it communicated to the public mind. Oatmeal now came rapidly into repute, and obtained in the eastern districts. In the course of eighteen months, thirty one mills for manufacturing it were at once the reward and triumph of your labours ; and for these altogether £260 only were offered in the shape of bounties. At the next meeting of the Legislature in 1821, the new system had begun to settle firmly in its foundation, and to present for the first time au air of stability. The theory had been put to the test, and partly grown into practice. The in- credulous began to mistrust their former conclu- sions— the wavering gathered confidence, and waxed more and more confirmed. Manures, throughout the whole province, were collected with greater care, and every source was exam- ined from which materials could be drawn to augment their quantity. The method of tilling was now perceptibly improved — the drilling of green crops was now coming into fashion — new implements were fabricated in several places, arable cultivation was obviously on the increase, and silently encroaching on the grazing husband- ry. In the autumn of that year the effects of this fresh and growing energy became apparent in the superabundance of all sorts of vegetables and roots. Potatoes and turnips were poured into the capital in so full a tide as completely to inundate us ; and these first fruits of plenty de- rived from our own territory were gladly hail- ed as a sure presage of that fullness in bread corn which would attend the future labours of the plough. Under these circumstances the last grant of £800 was voted — a sum which has been found totally inadequate to forward the objects deemed more essentially connected with the present stage of our progress. After this succinct account, the various steps of which are within your remembrance, it will be the business of this report to trace what may be considered as the causes of this rapid and singular change in Nova Scotia, and to mark such new occurrences of favourable omen as 338 NEV/ ENGLAND FARMER. have m.jre recently developed themselves, and given reason to believe that we are approach- ing still nearer the goal to which our elTorts have been directed. The causes that have led to the change are chiefly three : — The peculiar organization of our Board of Agriculture — The honourable zeal o! ».ur leading characters in all parts of the province, — and the mixed nature of our population drawn from distinct countries, and consequently divided amongst themselves in their maxims, rules and methods of cultiva- tion. All along since the revival of the provincial industry, the Central Board has been the sole organ by which the legislature has acted. To it the power of direction has been transferred, and through it the grants of public money have been distributed. It has been regarded as the fountain from which the liberality of govern- ment has flowed ; and on that account it ha.s gained and preserved a prepoii/ujia)jr matters th»n what is displayed i NEW ENGLAND FARiMER. 339 J 'le flowing and ebbing of tides in the ocean, and the tmosphere. The philosophers of antiquity, however, eld very different opinions on this subject. To give sketch of those opinions would be to fill a large vol- me. We shall merely quote a short article on the jbject from Rees' Cyclopedia under the head Timber. The ancients had a great regard to the age of Iht won in the felling of their timber. If their rules avail u»ht they are these : Fell timber in the wane, or four ays after the new moon ; some say let it be the last uai ter. ?liny orders it to be in the very article of I.' change, which happening ou the last day of the .inter solstice, the timber he says will be immortal : iiltimella says from the euth to the v!8th day : Cato iiir days after the full: Vegetius from the 15th to the ,ili, for ship timber ; but never in the increase, trees h. 11 most abounding with moisture, the only source of ■ uliefaction." Some modern scientific and practical men have like- vise expressed opinions in favor of attending to the (ate of the moon in cutting timber. The Farmer's i"istant, p. 382, says, " We are assured from an ex- 1 iiifuced builder of some of the first rate bridges in h'" northern part of this country, that such timber as i to be exposed to the water, or to frequent wetness, liould be felled during the m(rease of the moon ; and hat such as is to be kept dry, should be felled during he decrease of that planet."' Dr. Deane, Col. Pickering, and we believe nearly .11 scientific agriculturist* of modtrn times, have deni- d the agency of the moon in this and many other mat- ers relating to rural economy, in which certain effects re said to be produced by a certain occult influence f that planet. We have always been of the anti-lunar arty, and have thought that the man who was watch- 1^ the motious of the moon in order to ascertain the roper periods for performing the important operations fas^riculture, might rank with the person designated y the inspired penman, who says, " He that observ- t!i the wind shall not sow, and he that reg-ardeth tho Umds shall not reap." J^till we think it improper that ny preconceived theories or great authorities should luhice us to turn a deaf ear or a blind eye to malttrs f fact. If we should refuse to believe all which we , aanot comprehend, we must deny the powers of mag- letism, electricity, gravitation, and many other impor- .ant and daily occurring manifestations o{ Almighty igency. — FOR THE NEW ENGI..4ND FARMER. INSTRUCTIONS FOR F,\RMERS. Hnving lived to the age of seventy years nnd upwards, and having been the greater part of that time a practical farmer, and by attentive ebservation having- ac<^uired some valuable in- formation with which the great body of farmers are wholly unacquainted, the subscriber is im- pressed with a belief that the following remarks relative to the raising of Fruit Trees and clear- ing New Land, may be useful te the rising gen- tration and to posterity. 1 was born at Taunton, Bristol county, Mass. in the year 1750. in the spring of the year 1772, I came into the District of Maine, and took up a lot of land at a place then called Sylvester, now Turner, in the County of Ox- ford, and was one of the 6ve first settlers. I fell five acres of trees, and prepared them for burning ; in the autumn following it appeared on examination that a part of them had begun to decay, the sap being considerably rotten, while others in the same piece and ot the .«iime kind of wood were perfectly sound. This was a mystery, which at that time 1 could not ex- plain or understand. It seemed to be important to ascertain the cause, inasmuch as whtMO trees were sap rotten 1 had an excellent burn, and where sound it was with great difficulty that the tire could be made to run ; and it is from observation and repeated experiments that I am now enabled to explain, to the satisfaction of any rational man, what I once thought to be an inexplicable mystery. It is a truth that the Moon operates upon this earth and every thing that grows upon it much more powerfully than is generally imagined. It is also true that the etfects of her operation vary regularly as she passes through her orbit or monthly course. Timber cut in the wane of the moon will be much more durable than it would be if cut between the new and full moon. Her operations are so great and so diflcrent in the various parts of her orbit, that by cutting one tree three hours befoie the new moon, and another of the same kind six hours afterwards, and preserving them one year, a very striking difterence in the soundness of them will be dis- covered. If I had known as much at the age of twenty-two years as I now do, relative to the subject, I am conlident it would have benc- titted me more than a thousand doliiirs, particu- larly in clearing hard wood land, and in getting durable timber for buildings of all kinds, and for sleds, carts, &c. When a man is about to clear a piece of land around which he is calculating to make a log fence, he will find it much to his advantage to cut the trees around the piece in the wane of the moon, and if possible during the last quar- ter, but the remainder should be cut after the change. I have also found by experience, that fiuit trees set out in the wane of the moon, and particularly on the last day of the last quarter, are more likely to live and be flourishing than when set out at any other time. Pruning should also be attended to when the moon is in that fittiation, because the sap is then in such a state of circulation that wounds made at the lime will always heal without materially injuring the tree ; but trees that are wounded between the new and full moon are liable to bleed, as it were, turn black, and frequently die. 1 would advise farmers who wish to have flourishing and pro- fitable orchards, to pay particular attention to them in the month of May, annually, a day or two before the new moon. I have proved by experiments, for ten years in succession, that an apjile tree limb or graft cut off in the month of May, about three hours before the moon changes, and carefully set out, will grow and do well. On mentioning this circumstance at a certain time to Deacon Chase, he said it made him think of one Hancock, of Martha's Vine- yard, who was in the habit, at that season of the year, of going to his nursery and cutting ofl' the small trees within about an inch of the ground, and grafting the stumps, and setting out the tops in other places. In one year from that time the tops took root so as to be in good or- der for grafting, which he was wont to cut oft', graft, and set out as before. 1 inquired of the deacon whether he was particular in grafting with good fruit, and kept the secret to himself. The deacon thought it strange he should be supposed to be careless as to the kind of fruit with which he grafted, and should be private about it ; but I, being a Yankee, guessed he meant to get his liviag by il. My mode of grafting is different from that which is gen;*rally prnctised. I do not split the stumps, but take a graft of the common size, cut one side of it in the form of a wedge, as if it were to be put into the stump, taking care to cut the wood part considerably more thnn haH' ofl, and from the other side take oil" the bark only, making a square joint ; in this situation I put the graft inio the stump between the wood and the bark, thus giving. ;is will be perceived, a free opportunity for the sap to circulate. I then cover the stump with common eailli sev- eral inches deep, in the form of a cone, in or- der to have it shed rain, letting the top of the scion extend above the cone about two thirds of its length. I consider this a valuable impiove- ment in the art of grafting. I have forgot (he time to stick limbs into the ground, but I believe it is tl ree hours belore the full of the moon, or three hours after ; yet as I am not certain I would recommend that a limb be stuck into the ground every day of the moon, in order to ascertain the fact by experi- ment. I have raised apples these thirteen years by taking limbs Irom a grafted tree and sticking them into the green sward, where they found roots sufficient for growth and support. When you wish to procure durable timber fall your trees in the longe-t days in June and July, the day before the change of the moon ; if you fall trees that you want should rot as quick as possible, fill them in April, that being decidedly the best in the year, and the first quarter is better than the last quarter after the change. The first day after (he change is the best to cause the timber to rot quick ; after this every succeeding day is less favorable to the prospect of rotting, even up to the full. The last day before the full it will not rot much faster than the first day after the full. Timber cut in the v/\nc of the moon will grow better from the last day after the wane up to the full. March is as good as May, and a great deal bet- ter than June, for the purpose last mentioned. DANIEL STAPLES. Livermore^ Maine. From the Albany Daily Advertiser. GOODSELL'.? FLAX AND HEMP MACHINE. We the undersigned have attentively exam- ined the operation of Goodsell's Flax and Hemp Machine, at Greenbush, opposite to the city of Albany, and are of opinion, from the simplicity and solidity of its construction, and from ils cheapness, and the rtipitlity with which one man can perform three separate processes in cleaning tlax perfectly, in less than a minute, on so small a machine, not exceeding 20U lbs. weight, that it will be of great public utility, and will tend to promote the extended culture of tlax and hemp, in a manner to become lead- ing staples in the northern and western States. We do therefore recommend to all farmeis to cultivate largely both Hax and hemp the present year, in a full belief that they may safely repose confidence in the facilities they will derive by the introduction of said machine into general use. 6'. Fan Rensselaer, Elkttnah IFaf.soH, Erasttis Root, E. C. Genet, Thos. H. Hamilton, Daniel James, Henry fVager, Philip Hooker. Ate.r. O. Spencer, Aaron Clark, Asa Jlclgate, Jokr. James. Albany, April, !823. NEW ENGLAND FARMER. From the last Pamphlet published by the Essex Agri- cultural Society. DAVID LITTLE'S STATEMENT-ON RUTA BAGA. Newbury, November 18, 1S22. To the Trustees of the Essex Agricultural Societtj. Gentlemen — The following is a statement of the cultivation and produce of two half acres of land, adjoining each other, cultivated with Ruta Baga, on my farm — No. 1 & 2. The soil is a light sandy loam. In 1821 it was planted with corn, and manured with about two cords of ma- nure to the acre. The crop was small. June, 1822, the land was ploughed, harrowed, and fur- rowed three feet apart. Three and a half cords of yard manure was put in the furrows. The manure was covered with a plough drawn by a horse, by turning a ridge upon it. The seed was then sowed, one row on each ridge — one pound of seed. July 4th it was ploughed be- tween the rows, and I began weeding and thin- ning, and continued at intervals till .\ugust 8th, leaving them 10 or 12 inches apart in the rows. They were twice ploughed and hoed. There were about forty four rows ; tea of them were sowed with seed that I bought in New-York, represented to be of Cobbett's raising, but on account of age, or some other defect, but few vegetated. The 6th of July they were sowed over again ; but it being late, and the season un- favourable, the crop amounted to almost nothing, though occupying the best part of the land. — The land was measured and staked olT in two half acres — No. 1. and No. 2. Lot No. 1 was harvested Nov. 4, and produced 25 I.; bushels. No. 2 was harvested the 7th, and produced 227 bushels. Expense of cultivating the above lot of ruta baga, calculating labour at 4s. per day. June 3. Ploughing, gl.50 Harrowing and Furrowing, 33 Manure, 10.50 Covering the Manure, 33 Seed, 75 Jane 6. Sowing and covering Seed, 67 Ploughing, weeding and thin- ning, 2.79 Harvesting, 3.34 $20.21 I am, gentlemen, with respect, Your obedient servant, DAVID LITTLE. UAVID LITTLP'S STATEMENT— ON MANGEL WUKTZEL. Newbury, November 18th, 1822. To the Trustees of the Essex Agricultural Society. Gentlemen — The following is a statement of the situation, cultivation, and production, of a lot of land cultivated with Mangel Wurtzcl, on my farm. The situation is as follows : a swell inclining southwesterly, and of a rich yellow loam; in 1821 was cultivated with beets, ma- nured with about three cords of compost ma- nure, and produced about five hundred and thir- ty bushels ; 1822, May 9lh, ploughed, 10th, har- rowed and furrowed three feet apart, four and a half cords of compost manure was put in the furrows, and was covered with a plough, then a harrow was drawn lengthways of the ridges, to smooth the ground ; the seed was then sowed, one row en each ridge, with four pounds of seed, (1 think less than half would be suflicient) ; com- menced ploughing between the rows, and weed- ing, June 10th; continued weeding and thin-l rods wide. ning at different times till they stood ten or twelve inches apart in July 16th. The work was done principally by boys, estimating two boys to be equal to a man. Oct. 31st, and Nov. 1st, and 2d, they were harvested by men and boys, and produced nine hundred and seventy and a half bushels of mangel wurtzel, two bush- els of carrots, and one hundred and nine cabba- ges. Six swine were mostly led with the thin- nings, from the beginning of weeding till about the first of October ; there were fruit trees on the above lot, sufficient, in my opinion to pro- duce twenty one barrels of fruit. The land, that 1 supposed to contain an acre, when it was measured by the surveyor fell short about ten or twelve rods, and 1 was obliged to make out the acre by taking a small piece which adjoined the same, which was sowed late in the season, let and produced a small crop, and also a piece of about five rods which adjoined, were transplant- ed in vacant places among carrots, on account of which my crop was much less. The above lot you will see has been divided by the surveyor, staked off in half acre lots. No. 1, and No. 2. — No. 1 produced five hundred and twenty three and a half bushels. No. 2 produced four hun- dred and forty seven bushels of mangel wurtzel, two bushels of carrots, and one hundred and nine cabbages. The expense of cultivating the above lot of mangel wurtzel, calculating labour at four shil- lings per day. Ploughing, May 9th, gl.50 Harrowing, 50 Furrowing, 50 Manure, 9.00 Ploughing a ridge over the ma- nure, and harrowing, 1.00 Seed, 3.00 Sowing, 67 Weeding, 3.33 Harvesting, 4.46 [il g23.96 1 am, gentlemen, with respect. Your obedient servant, DAVID LITTLE. EBENEZER BERRY'S STATEMENT— ON DEEP AND SHALLOW PLOUGHING. To the Trustees of the Essex Agricultural Society. Having learned that you had offered a premi- um, the present year, for the most satisfactory experiment in ascertaining the relative advanta- ges of deep and shallow ploughing, I have been induced to ofler for your examination the fol- lowing statement. In the autumn of 1821, my field was ploughed by the teams that contested for the premiums of your Society. It was laid out in lots of one quarter of an acre each. The land is level, and free from rocks. The soil is gravelly, and shal- low, and only of middling quality. It had been in grass four years previous, and never had been highly manured. The common burden of grass produced upon it was not more than one ton to the acre. The whole field ploughed contained two acres and a half, one acre of which was ploughed in the spring of the present year ; and on this part was the best crop. That which was ploughed in the preceding autumn at the ploughing match, was well harrowed in the spring, and furrowed, eight rows to the lot, two Twelve ox loads of manure wep put to the acre, in the holes. The manure wa a mixture of the droppings of horses and nea cattle, in about equal quantities, taken from th barn yard. The ground was planted with Ir dian corn, from the 10th to the 12th of Maj The eight rowed corn, and that which is com monly cultivated in this vicinity, was the kin planted. It was hoed three times in the usui manner. Every part was managed as near); similar as possible. Each lot was gathered ani accurately measured by itself. Lots No. 2 am 3, were the most gravelly, and most exposed t< the drought ; and the whole field suffered con ^ siderably for want of moisture. 1 am of opinioi that it would have been highly beneficial to hav cross-ploughed the land in the spring. Th( following is the product of each of the lots. No. 1, ploughed by 28 furrows, 4^ ioche deep, situate on the western side, yielded twen ty and a half bushels of ears. No. 2, ploughed by 28 furrows, 6 inches deep yielded nineteen bushels of ears. No. 3, ploughed by 22 furrows, 8 or 9inche: deep, yielded twenty-three bushels of ears This ploughing was apparently deeper than th« soil ; but in the latter part of the season th« crop suffered much less by the drought than ei ther of the lots; and had the «oil been as goo the crop would have been much superior. No. 4, ploughed by 28 furrows, 65- inchei deep, yielded twenty-two and a half bushels 0 ears. No. 5, ploughed by 28 furrows, 6 inches deep yielded twenty-one bushels of ears. No. 6, ploughed by 36 furrows, 6^ inche. deep, yielded twenty-two and a half bushels o ears. The soil of this lot was rather better thai the other parts of the field. From the result of this experiment, my opin ion is decidedly in favour of ploughing our land much deeper than is usually practised by ou farmers. Especially is it beneficial on lands li able to be injured by drought. EBENEZER BERRY. Dan vers, November 19, 1822. To promote the Gro-j:th of Forest Trees. It is highly to be censured, the neglect 01 permitting ivy-twines, which grow to forest trees, to remain attached to them. Their roots entering into the bark rob the trees of much ol their nourishment; they in a manner strangle their supporters, by impeding the circulation ol their juices, and in time destroy the trees.— They should be torn up by the roots, for, il any part of them adhere to the tree, they will spread, as they obtain nourishment by their ad- hering roots. — English publication. Caitse and Prevention of the Dry Rot. The cause of the dry rot in wood is mois- ture ; and to prevent well-dried timber from decaying above or under ground, is by charring it well. — ibid. == Method of trying the Goodness of Timber for Ship Building, used in the Arsenetl at Vienna. One person applies his ear to the centre of one end of the trunk, while another, with a key, hits the other end with a gentle stroke. If the tree be sound and good, the stroke will be dis- tinctly heard at the other end, though the tree should be an 100 feet or more in length. — ibid. NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 341 From the London Farmers' Journal. Sir — You probablj' know that farmers are in he habit of Manuring land by tiie eye, and in hat way are liable to mistakes. I have found, a the Complete Grazier, a valuable table, and I ircsuming the calculation to be accurate, I think : ts publication may be very useful. i remain, your's, &c. East Greeimich, March 27. J'The following table for maauring land, is ex- tracted from an English work entitled the Complete Grazier: No. of loads per acre. >o. of heaps to load. 1 ■2 3 4 5 6 7 8 U J yards d istance. 193 PC 64 4; 38 32 27 24 U 5 1-2 do. do. 160 80 53 40 32 26 23 20 1 Kt 6 do. do. 134 Gl 44 33 26 2- 19 16 it fi 1-2 do. do. 11-1 57 38 28 oo 19 16 14 U 7 do. do. 98 49 24 19 16 14 12 It 7 1-2 do. do. 86 43 28 21 17 14 12 10 U 8 do. do. 76 37 25 18 15 12 10 9 Explanation of the first t'jso rows of figures in the preceding table. The number of heaps, consisting of one load each, laid at five yards distance, is 193 to cover DDe acre ; at two heaps to a load, 96 ; at three fteaps, 64 ; at four heaps, 48 ; and so to the end. •lach of the following rows is to be read in a limilar manner. NEW ENGLAND FARxMER. SATURU.^Y, MAY 24, 1823. The Farmer^! and Gardener^ Remembrancer. M.\Y. Indun Corn. — In our last, page 334, we gave ome observations respecting the best mode ol lanting this valuable article. We now propose 0 pursue the same subject. There has been ome dispute among farmers whether it is best 0 plant it in ridges, or on single furrows. We will just give some authorities in favour of the idge cultivation, and then state what has been irged against it. In the Reports of the Agricul- ural Society of New Haven County we have he following statements. Mr. Mallet, of Milford.—'-'- When I plough my and for Indian corn, / always lay it in ridges, whether it be sward or mellow, and plough the >ialks up to the ridges, and those ridges I never listurb by cross ploughing, while my corn is up- on the land. 1 am fi.Uy convinced by my own :xperience, and that of almost all my neigh- Jours, who pursue the same method, that one ifth more of corn, at least, will be raised in this iDanner than in any other upon the same land." Mr. Hulbruok, of Derby. — " Upon experiment, . find the method of ploughing land for Indian ;orn, heretofore recommended to the Society by tfr. Mallet, to be the best 1 pursue. I lay all ny-laod of every kind, in ridges, when I intend t for Indian corn, and plough the balks clean, laj them to the ridges, before planting ; I never ■s disttirb those ridges by cross ploughing. Any person can see by looking at the part of my field, which 1 have treated in this way, and at mother part, of the same field, that was cross ploughed, that the part lying in ridges has much ; '.he advantage. 1 have always had evidence the jj! same way upon experiment." jj.) Judge ChauHcy, of Xexi> Haven. — " I have ,,'■ planted two acres of Indian corn this year. I ,. ploughed iu the maoner recommended by Wr. Mallet. The land has been mowed for five years past, and the sward is very tough. My crop is better than any of my neighbours have ; and they agree with me that this method has in- creased it one third. From three years experi- ence of this mode of ploughing Indian corn, I am fully confirmed in the opuiion that its ten- dency is highly beneficial." S. W. Pomeroy, Esq. in an able treatise on " Indian Corn, and its Culture^'''' expresses his opinion in favour of ridge cultivation as follows. " Having a large bed of Beets planted in narrow rows, or drills, in the usual way, and a severe drought ensuing, the leaves were observed, in the middle of the day, to wilt and fall down, in all but the out-side rows, which remained erect and flourishing; and when the crop was taken up, were nearly double the size of those from the centre of the bed. That a greater expo- sure to the atmosphere was the principal cause could not be doubted; and the idea immediate- ly presented, that if they had been cultivated on ridges, so far apart as to permit a plough to pass, it would in effect, be making the whole crop out side rows : and for upwards of fifteen years since, all the arable crops upon my farm have been cultivated on ridges, with manifest advan- tage— as to product, labour, and the unquestiona- ble improvement of the soil."* On the other hand. Judge Peters, of Pennsyl- vania, in his " JVoticcs for a young Farmer,^^ first published in the "Memoirs of the Philadelphia Agricultural Society," says — " Unless its situa- tion and circumstances forbid lay your cornfield level rather than iyi ridges, that moisture, in light soils especially, may be retained, instead of pas sing away, and if necessary, draw water-furrows, lo carry off accidental flooding, by rains or other causes." Col. Powell, of Philadelphia, a very able practical as well as scientific cultivator, says, " Among the various practices into which we have been seduced by the plausible theories of the advocates of British systems of husbandry, there is none which appears to me more absurd, than that which has led us to drill, or dibble our crops on ridges. The English farmer wisely contends with the evils produced by too much rain — the American husbandman should as anx- iously guard against his most formidable enemy drought. 1 am inclined to think there is no crop cultivated in this state, which ought not to be put upon a flat surface.''''] In England, we believe the ridge cultivation is less used than formerly, notwithstanding the dampness of the climate. J Notwithstanding the above mentioned appa- rent clashing of opinions, we believe that both parties may be correct. An able writer of a " Treatise o» Jigriculture^'' originally published in the Albany Argus, in discussing the question of the different modes of ploughing [level or ridge ploughing] which is to be preferred, ob- serves that " This question admits of no abso- lute answer. Stiff, heavy, wet clays, and in our opinion, all ground in which clay predominates, whatever be the culture should be made to take this ybrm ;" [that of ridge ploughing] "because it powerfully tends to drain the soil and carry off from the roots of the growing plants, that su- perfluous water, which, left to itself, would se- riously affect both the quality and the quantity of their products.* In sandy, porous, dry soils, on the other hand, level ploughing is to be pre- ferred, because ridging such soils would but in- crease that want of cohesion, which is their nat- ural defect. "A loamy soil [which is a medium between these two extremes] ought, in a dry climate, to be cultivated in a fiat way, that it may better retain the moisture ; and in a wet climate, in ridges, that it may the sooner become dry." Wc perceive that some writers on this sub- ject have confounded the distinction between the cultivation of corn in rows or drills, and in ridges. We have before observed that corn planted in drills will yield a greater product than that which is planted in hills. This fact was establihcd by an experiment made by Oli- ver Fiske, Esq. and detailed in the Massachu- setts Agricultural Repository, vol. vi, p. 224. Mr. Pomeroy says, " If the land is in good heart and the manure abundant, the kernels may be six inches apart [the rows being five and an half feet apart] or as many dropped together [in each hill] as to insure four stalks to remain two feet apart, [from hill to hill] in which case the manure is deposited conformably, either meth- od will give the same number of plants to the acre ; I think four stalks together afford support to each other against winds, and are not so apt to send up Slickers as when single.] In putting the seed corn into the hills be careful that the kernels do not stand very near together lest the roots interfere too much with each other. Dr. Sam- uel Black, of Delaware, advises to plant corn in such a manner that the rows may run directly north and south. In Gen. Hull's mode as detailed page 265 of our paper, furrows were drawn north and south three and an half feet apart. JVo ridges were formed. Hills were then made with the hoe in these furrows two feet apart, not flat but descending to the south with a small bank on the north sidt of each hill for the purpose of giving the young plants a fairer exposure to the sun. Mr. John Stevens, of Hoboken, N. Jersey, raised on an acre 118 bushels and two quarts: and was confident that he should have had a still larger crop, had it not been beaten down by a thunder storm. He ploughed his land three times before planting, and before the last plant- ing, put on, (as report says) no less than 700 horse cart loads of street manure ; and planted in double rows at 5j feet between each set of doub- le rows, and dibbled in each kernel in such a manner that the plants were 8 inches apart in the rows, and stood diagonally. In order to per- form this with expedition he bored two rows of holes in a piece of board four feet long, so as to form equilateral triangles the sides of which were 8 inches thus Into these holes he drove pegs about 3^ inch- es long, fitted a handle to the board, and, with this simple machine dibbled the holes, in which the corn was dropped. A man followed with a basket of well rotted dung, with which he filled the holes. Then came on the carts, out of *Ma3S. Agricultural Repository, vol. vi, p. 156, 157. t See page 277. X See an article headed Mangel Wurtzel, New Eug- laad Farmer, page 28. * " It has been objected to ridge ploughing, that it accumulates the good soil on the crowns of the ridgcj, and iojpoTerishes the sides and furrows. These objec- tions are obviated by narrow and low ridges, which alternate every crop with the furrows." t Haas. Agricultural Itepository, vol. vi, p. 150 342 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. which the rows were sprinkled with a coat of upon it. But I doubt whether this will deter street manure. j ao.V other liirds." Mr. Lemuel Davis, in a communication to the I It has been oficn recommended to pour warm Worcester Agricultural Society [sec page 8 of tar over seed corn, and stir it in such a manner the N. England Farmer] recommends to " fur- row the ground four feet apart from centre to that every grain may receive a coat of tar, and then roll it in ashes, or plaster of Pari'. Seed centre to plant the corn in two rows, nine inch- dealt with in this manner will not be pulled up es apart, diamond fashion. It is a very simple process, to level the manure when spread in the furrows, and take a pair of small wheels, with pegs in them, made for that purpose, put them on an axle-tree nine inches apart, which will dot the ground with accuracy, when drawn a- cross the field so that a child of ten years may drop the corn without the least difficulty by birds, neither zcill it come up at all, unless it is well soaked before the tar is applied. The tar makes a coat or enclosure for the kernels, which will not suffer moisture to penetrate it so as to cause vegetation, it ivould be better, we imagine, to pour water over (ar or turpentine, and let it stand two or three days, till it becomes strongly impregnated with those substances. In The distance at which the corn should be (this water soak your seed corn, and then roll it planted, either in hills or rows, depends on the «5ze of the kind of corn you plant. In the southern states the corn is generally planted at the distance of seven or seven and an half feet from hill to hill in every direction, when four or five stalks are suffered to grow in each hill ; or four feet apart, when two stalks only are permitted to stand in each hill. Mr. Coop- er, of New-Jersey, a celebrated agriculturist says, " In every kind of soil I have tried, 1 find planting the row.s six feet asunder each waj', as near at right angles as may be, and leaving not more than three stalks it a hilt produces the best crop." Mr. Deane directed to let the gro\ind be cut into exact squares by shoal furrows made with a horse plough, from three to four feet apart, ac- cording to the largeness or smallness of the kind to be planted, and to put five corns in the places where the furrows cross each other. " Shell seed gently by hand that it may not be torn or bruised at all rejecting about an inch at each end of the ear. And if any corn appear with black eyes, let them also be rejected, not because they will not grow at all, the contrary being true ; but because the blackness indicates cither some detect in drying, or want of perfec- tion in the grain. " Some steep their seed. But in general it had better be omitted ; for ic will occasion it to while wet, and just before planting, in plaister Supposing also you should boil a few elder roots in this water before you turn it on the tar. The soil having been broken up from five to seven inches deep, or if more the better, re- quires shallow planting. When you plant on what is called green sward land, or grass land, merely turned over without ploughing, holes should be made quite through the furrows, and dung put into the holes. If this caution be not observed the crop will be uneven, as the roots in some places, where the furrows are thickest, will have but little benefit from the rotting of the sward. But if the holes are made through the roots will be fed with both fixed and putrid air, supplied by the fermentation in the grass roots of the turf. RE.MEDV FOR WORMS IN THE HEAD OF SHEEP. In our paper No. 26, page 205, may be found some account of this disorder, its causes, and its symptoms. We shall, however, in this place, give a brief recapitulation of them, and mention a simple preventive remedy which a gentleman assures us is infallible. The disorder is caused by grubs, a kind of hots proceeding from a large bee called by scientific writers Oestrus Ovis. — The bee lays its eggs in the nostrils of the sheep the last of xXugust or first of September, where and continue its application till the time of it departure. It would, probably, be safest to be gin to use it «bout the first of August, and cob tinue its use till the lust of September. We d not learn how ot'ten the tar should be put os but would advise to keep the nose constant! smirched so that it may be visible. Tar ie like wise said to be an excellent remedy for con sumption of the lungs, cough, rot, &c. in sheep It promotes and confirms the health of the ani mals, and operates as a specific against near! all the diseases to which they are subject. The celebrated anatomist Verhetw, who was bn ric J in the public cemeterj- in Louvain, is said to hav been worthy of the loUowinj epitaph, which was in scribed on his tomb : Philippcs Vkrheiw, Medicinae doctor et professor, Partem 3ui Materialem, Hie In coemeterio condi roluit, Ne templum dehonestaret, Aut nocivis halitibus inficerel. TRANSLATION. Here lies deposited the mortal part Of one devoted to the healing art, Philip Verhey.v, a sage who thought it beit, Tlie dead should in their cemeteries rest. Beneath some distant and secluded sod, A'ot poison and pollvte Ike HocSE of God. they soon hatch, so that by the 20lh of the perish in the ground, if the weather should not month you may discover in the cavity between prove warm enough to bring it up speedily. If planting a second time should become necessa the nostrils and the wind pipe, from 25 to 100 small white grubs, with black heads, and a black ry, by means of the destruction of the f-rst seed ; streak on the back. They obtain their growth or if planting be delayed on any account till the in July or August of the following season. The beginning of June, then it will be proper that the seed should have boiling water poured on it. Let it not soak more than half a minute, and be cooled speedily, and jilanted before it dries. The corn will be forwarded in its growth several days. The seed should be covered with about two inches of earth." Judge Peters says " the seed should be wetted and rolled in plas- ter, or steeped in a decoction of Hellebore or •copperas : or what produces a surprising effect, a strong solution of salt petrc ; but do not soak or steep it too much. In dry weather, the ger- mination is accelerated by the' steeping injuri- ously ; so that the plume and radicles perish : and in long wet seasons they rot." There have been a variety of other methods recommended for preparing seed corn in such a manner as to preserve it from birds and insects. Dr. Deane directed to "steep some corn in a stroiig infusion of Indian poke, or refuse tobac- co, and sprinkle it over the ground before the crop is up. White threads stretched over a 6m\J, of corn, will prevent crows from alighting symptoms appear towards spring, at which time the infected animal shows appearances of the disorder by a sickly countenance, wasting of the flesh, and apparent attempts to blow something from the nose. The wool stops growing, gen- erally much of it falls off; many of the lambs are lost, and those which live are stinted by reason of the eives being poor and sickly, and consequently giving but little milk. Sometimes the sheep affected lingers along, pining away continually, and dies in June or July. These worms or sheep-bots are very tena- cious of life, and will exist for some lime in alcohol, sulphuric acid, spirits of turpentine, ice. The usual remedies are vinegar, a decoction of tobacco, assafustida, &,c. injected into the nos- trils of the sheep. Dry snuff blown up the nose with a quill is likewise sometimes made use of. These are all troublesome and uncertain. The remedy recommended by our inlbrmanl, whi) says he has had abundant experience of its elli- cacv, is to smear tlu imse of the sheep •ujitli tnr. Apply it before the tly makes its appearance, Mortification. — Dr. Ainsle, of the British East Indi Company, has written a letter to the Editor of th Courier, stating, that he has discovered that the Ba sam nf Peru is a sovereign remedy to arrest the pr< gress of mortification. The mode of using it is to di a piece of lint in the baham and lay it over th affected part the moment mortification appears ; th to be rftpeatetl moriiingf and evening until healthy gr: nulations shall appear, then simple dressing will ai swer. The doctor says he was first induced to try ti etficacy of the balsam in the torrid zone, in conseqnenf of its antisceptic qualities, and its peculiar gratefi odour, which so admirably conceals the foetor of putn faction. He says it smarts a good deal for a minute < two and then feels quite grateful. It is a valuabl discovery if it be found eflficacious. FOREIGN. QirLATE A.\D IMPORTANT jVEWS. The Packet Ship Leeds, Capt. Stoddart, lately arrii ed at New York, brought files of papers from Londo to the 22d, and from IjiverpooKto the 24th April, sis teen days later than had been before received. O the 7th of April the French passed the Bidasoa, tb frontier river, and advanced into .Spain. They, prev ously, had a skirmish with some straggling French am Italians, in which the latter were dispersed with tb loss of fifteen killed and wounded. Four French ofl cers were likewise wounded. At St. Sebastian th French received a check, with the loss, according t some accounts, of about 800 killed and wounded, letter from Paris states that the French army goes o but slowly — they had experienced two defeats befof St. Sebastian and Pampeluna. The constitutionalist fight with a desperation not expected by the Frend The affair at St. Sebastian, according to private ac counts, was very serious, and the hospitals were full < French soMiers. The royalists at Valencia, accordin to a Madrid article, have been defeated with the lo! of 1600 killed and made prisoners. The Duke d'An "ouleme has issued a proclamation, much in the usuj style of such articles, in which the Spaniards are, i substance, informed that they are to be attacked ft their own benefit. " I am about," he says, " to cros the Pyrenees, at the head of a hundred thousani Frenchmen, but it is to support the Spaniards who ar the friends to order and the Uhs ; and to aid them t NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 315 child often j'curs of age, :md all the appearan- ces of the progress of vegetation ceased. The liuds half started from their winter protection, remained for fourteen days, nearly quiescent — vet the season has advanced within a few days and has iicquired an average rate of forward- ness. Riiins have been most abundant — springs which had been deficient for two years are am- ply supplied — the grass is well set, and the sea- son promises abundantly as to all the fruits ex- cept apples. The shew of pear blossoms never was exceeded — the country is literally white with them. The apples will of course be less numerous, owing to the extraordinary eflorts ot the trees last year — yet there will be an ample quantity, and while less loss will be sustained by the cultivator, the consumer will feel no failure in the supply. If apples may be a little dearer, the more important article of hay will probably be cheaper. It will be impracticable to give a schedule of the progress of the vari- ous seasons without repetition — yet few persons preserve the statements of former years, and it is not possible to give a correct view without comparing many years. This will enable the curious to make useful remarks — and it will convince all, that however different the weath- 1 er, and the progress of vegetation, we have a 'superintending Providence above us all, who ' regulates all seasons in mercy, and compensates You may rely upoo^he truth I by the heat or moisture at one moment, all that may be deficient in another. iberatc their captive King ; to raise again the allar nd the throne," &o. Klyin» columns of light troops lovf about between the Pyrenees and the Ebro. They ovrr round the Krench, harass (htm and have thenn othing to eat. It is declared that the most delermin- d spirit of hostility is every where prevalent through- ut >^paiii against the French, and that uo idea of sub- 11' ion existed. It is also said that Miua, at the head 1:1 Ibrmidable body, had invaded France. I he French government, it is stated, acting on the rintiple that France is not at war with the Spanish ov. reign aud nation, but only with a faction, will not laiit any letters of marque, uor permit any privateers 0 be fitted out. Alt the Constitutional Spaniards in France are or- WT' d to leave the Kingdom. Kngland appears to be determined to prejerre a sys- cm of neutrality on certain specified conditions. In 'arliament, on the 17th April, Mr. Canning and Mr. iriHigham exhibited a rough outline of a quarrel, but 1 1 re they could finish the sketch they were threaten- J to be taken into custo.iy of the Sergeant «t Arms, ilr. B. accused Mr. C. of " monstrous truckling for he purpose of obtaining office." Mr. C. replied, " 1 j.n to say that that is false." Certain explanations ,n.i modifications ensued, which brought about a re- j neillatiou without the intervention of the weighty .nd conclusive arguments which are prescribed by the nodem code of honor as necessary to settle such a ;ontroTersy. London, April 21. — Extract of a letter from Paris, lated Saturday evennig : " The French frigate La 3nerriere, has been taken almost in sight of Brest, by .wo armed vessels bearing Spanish colors, one of which ffas a brig carrying 15 or 20 guns. The frigate was Kppered in high style rfthis." In the British Parliament, April 14th, the promised I The statements are made from the same tree tatements were made relative to the diplomatic pro- < op plant — in the same exposure, and situation, :eedings with the foreign powers. After giving a his- j ^^j therefore not liable to the Variations which ory of the negotiations, and the unavailing attempts i ,, ,- , ,.•„ * k - *: ,,0 «<■ ^ i\i / • ■ . J wou d appear from transient observations ot o preserve peace, Mr. Canning communicated a copy j '""'" c|^|v,.i. ""■" f his last despatch to be communicated to the French passengers or travellers Irish 7'rick. — The Marquis of VVelli sley, in au offi- cial despatch, gives the following statement of Irisli cunning, which is quite up to any yankce (rick we have heard or read of. In speaking of the burning of stacks of grain by the white boys, or Irish rebels, he observes : " It is a curious circumstance, however, in the char- acter of these transactions, that, in several instances, the grain had been artfully separated from the straw, and had been sold by the proprietor of the stacks for its full value, and that the same proprietor had de- stroyed the stacks of straw by fire, with a view of re- covering from the barony ilie full value of corn already sold. These cases were not unfrequent. The incen- diary was of course nndiscoverable. The fact of such numerous and frequent conflagrations was alleged to be an indisputable proof of general combinations, until the vigilance of the military and police actually de- tected a considerable number of the stacks of straw cleared of the grain, and prepared for the fire, and thus discovered the whole mystery of this double fraud." 0:5=0/' the numbers of the jV. E. Farmer alrea- dy published, only forty sets remain on hand, and they are daily called for. Those, therefore, who ■wish for the first volume complete, must apply immediately. May 24. PRICES OF COUNTRY PRODUCE, &c. [Revised and corrected every Friday.] overnment. This despatch states — " That England does not expect France to establish military occupation of Spain, nor to force the King o any measures derogatory to his cro ffn, or to hie ex- sting relations with other powers. That she expects the dominions of Portugal will le respected. " That she expects no attempt will be made by •Vance to bring under her dominion any of the .\meri- ;an Provinces which have thrown off their allegiance .0 Spain. " That a frank explanation upon these points was lecessary, in order that England might maintain a itrict neutrality." Mr. Canning then stated that assurances had been •^ceived that no intention had existed in France of at- tacking Portugal. He further stated, that no hope ji aad ever been held out to Spain that England would a oursue any other course than a strict neutrality, which C she was still resolved upon. He concluded by expres- t MDg a hope that Spain would come off triumphant. From the Daily Advertiser. THE STATE OF THE SEASON. Mr. H.4LE — 1 have for so many years given some account of the progress of vegetation, that I find my friends, in town and country, look for it. It is perhaps of as much Hse as the diaries ^ nf the weather, and common thermometrical I Statements. In some short remarks, which 1 Bent you early in thi« month, I observed that though the season was exactly one month be- J bind the last, in the beginning of April, yet like ^ the Siberian summer, it had advanced so rapid- ly, that on the first of May it had caught even I the precosity of the last season. After that The Cherry — its tirst opening. In 1813, May 10 In 1815, In 1816, May 6* In 1017, In 1818, May 17 In 1819, In 1820, May 2 In 1821, In 1822, May 1 In 1823, * This was the most disastrously cold year afterwards The Pear — its first opening. In 1813,* May 20 In 1815, . In 1816,t May 12 In 1817, In 1818,}; May 24 In 1819, In 1820, May 9 In 1821, In 1822, May 4 In 1823, * Cherries opened this year on the 10th of May, but cold winds kept back the pears to the 20th. t This was an exceedingly cold season afterwards. :j; This season deserves notice, for though so late it was a fine one. The Apple — its first opening, May 10 May 6 May 6 May 9 May 7 May 20 May 7 May 17 May 13 May 13 In 1813, May 23 In 1816, May 18 In 1818, May 23 111 1820, May 11 In 1822, May 9 In 1815, In 1817, In 1819, In 1821, In 1823, May 25 May 12 May 19 May 13 May 19 1 will add the Lilac, the ornament of our Election day. In 1817, May 19 In 1818, May 27 In 1819, May 25 In 1820, May 20 In 1821, May 20 In 1822, May 12 lu 1823, May 22 Thus it will be seen, that the present season is about an average one in point of forwardness, while it is far above the average in its verdure and promise. N. B. — There is some danger, that seeds of squashes and other tender plants committed to the ground early in May, have rotted and will require replanting. It is, we know, the fact in '■■ communication, long continued cold easterly and northerly winds set in. On the Gth of May ice [some places. a roxbirv farjier , was made in the country, sufficient to bear a I Roxbury, May Z2, i2Z3. ASHES, pot, 1st qual. . . . pearl do BEANS, white, BEEF, mess, 200 cwt. . . . cargo. No 1, . . . . " No2, . . . . BUTTER, inspect. 1st qual. . " 2d qual. . small kegs, family, CHEESE, new milk .... FLAX FLAX SKED FLOUR, Baltimore, superfine, Genessee .... Rye, best .... GRAIN, Rye Corn Barley Oats HOGS' LARD, 1st sort . . HOPS, No 1, LIME, OIL, Linseed, American PLAISTER PARIS .... PORK, iNavy Mess .... Boue Middlings . . . Cargo, No 1, ... Cargo, No 2, ... SEEDS, Herd's Grass . . • Clover WOOL, Merino, full blood,washed do do unwashed do 3-4 washed do 1-2 do Native .... do Pulled, Lamb's, 1st sort do Spinning, 1st sort PROJ'ISIOA' MARKET. BEEF, best pieces .... PORK, fresh VEAL MUTTON POULTRY, . . . BUTTER, keg & tub lump, best EGGS, MEAL, Rye, . . . Indian, . . POTATOES, . . . CIDER, liquor, . . HAY. best, . . . FROM TO D. C. D. C. ton. 160 00 165 00 165 00 00 bush 1 OU 1 10 bbl. 9 50 10 00 8 50 9 00 6 75 7 00 lb. 13 14 in 11 15 16 7 9 8 9 bush 85 90 bbl. 7 75 7 87 7 75 7 87 5 00 5 50 bush 72 75 Cf, 70 6!! 70 40 42 lb. 9 10 12 cask 1 25 1 50 iral. 65 00 ton. 3 00 3 25 bbl. 12 00 12 50 14 00 14 50 12 00 12 50 11 00 11 50 bush 2 25 2 50 lb. 8 9 55 65 45 48 45 55 40 45 38 40 55 60 50 55 lb. 8 9 7 9 6 7 5 7 12 15 15 16 IP 20 doz. i; 13 bush 71 75 80 40 45 hW. . 1 5f 2 25 ton. 20 00 22 00 344 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. AMERICAN SKETCHES. THE FARMER'S FIRE-SIDE. Shade of immortal Bums ! •wliere''er thy home. On Scotia's misty hilh, or fixed on hi»h, Beyond the star-lijhts of the wolkin dome, Too holy, and too bright for mortal eye, 'Mid amber streams and murniuriag melody, Great bard of lowly life ! propitious bend, And while the rustic song, unskiU'd, I try. Thy l'>ve of truth and independence lend, And with its warblings wild, thy master spirit blend. The world I've searcli'd, and it has many a rose — But, ah! the thorns beneath them that remain, Proclaim the world not destitute of woes. And, when I look'd for pleasure, give but pain. No more amid its scenes my soul restrain ; Back to my boyish days ! Let memory guide The tired and flagging spirit once again. To scenes most dear — to hill, and rolling tide, And that old cottage, once that grac'd its verdant side. Meekly arose its moss-besprinkled wall, One ancient beech magnificently bore Its branches o'er it, overshadowing all The space around its hospitable door; Within, might one behold its little store, The plates ivell rang'd, the shelves that neatlygrac'd, The chairs of oak upon the sanded floor, The wheel industrious in its corner plac'd, The clock, that hourly told, how life runs on to waste. Once more the pensive eve with silent tread Returns to hush the noisy world to peace ; Once more the Farmer seeks his humble shed, Glad from his daily toil to gain release ; His task accomplish'd and his heart at ease, He hails betimes the Fireside of his cot ; And there, as from the hills the shades increase, " The world forgetting, by the world forgot," He tastes the simple joys, that sooth his quiet lot. His patient herd, ere set the beams of day. With lowings oft, alarm'd the neighboring plain. Now pcnn'd within the well-known bars, they pay Their milky tribute to his pails again. His flocks upon the distant hill remain. Their tinkling bells sound in the passing wind ; Though his be not the lordling's wide domain. Yet fails he not a due supply to find, From lowing herd and field, and from the bleating kind. To greet him home, the crackling faggots burn, The housewife, busy round the blazing fire. Cheers, with her smiles her Farmers lov'd return ; His children climb around their honor'd sire. And to his fond caress once more aspire ; Inquisitive, they ask of each lair field. Whether its hills, than their own clitTs are higher? What wonders there of cascade are reveal'd ? What flowers enchanting bloom, what gifts the moun- tains yield ? Her father's knee, his Bertha soon surmounts, Around his neck her tender arms she throws. His Bertha, from whose eyes like diamond founts, The living fire through locks of ebon glows. Nor she alone ; he on them all bestows Alike his kisses and alike his tears. Who bloomed (on autumn's bosom, like the rose, 'Mid cold and storm its loveliness that rears,) To cheer bis riper age, and deck his vale of years. To him, how bless'd the closing hours of day ! His wife, his children, Uiose that love him, near ! How sweet his cot's own hospitable ray ! How kind its welcome, and its joys how dear 1 The cricket chirps, the sacred scene to cheer. The embers half illume the humble hall. The shaggy mastiff sleeps, devoid of fear. The playful kitten round and round the ball Urges with active sport, unmindfully of all. The children mingle in Grimalkin's mirth, And laugh and busy prattle do not s]'are. Such cheerful sport, the chirper in the hearth, Scenes, which eve returning doth repair. Charm from the Farmer's bosom carping care. And banish it to " blank oblivion foul." Hark I loud and startling through the misty air. The prowling wolf resum's his nightly howl. And ftota the hollow oak is heard the muffled owl. How oft I've sought that distant, lonely cot ! A grandam dwelt there, ivhcn my days were young. And there, when Christmas logs blazed red and hot, And wintry blasts their nightly descant sung, My soul delighted on her lips was hung. As spoke she oft of dreadful deeds of yore, How stern Wahawa, like a tiger sprung Upon a lonely cot, and tides of gore Were shed, as when the clouds their vernal treasures pour. Her hands were withered, as an autumn's leaf. Her cheeks were like a parch'd and shrivell'd scroll, In truth, though human life at best be brief. She witness'd eighty years their circuits roll, And friends and kindred reach'd their earthly goal ; And sitting by her busy wheel to spin. While swift the hours at evening onward stole, We tcazed her oft some story to begin. And as she mov'd in sooth her old projecting chin, She told of Mog, Madockawando, all From Hopehood down to Paugus' frantic yell. And, a" her lips the bloody deeds recall. And, as with upturn'd ga7.p we heard her tell. Unconsciously the chrystal tear-drops fell. For, from our infancy, we'd heard and read Of Chiefs from Canada, and knew full well Of Sachem's wrath, that feasted on the dead, And shook the haughty plume and arm with life-blood red. My native hills, my loved, my honored land. Ye vallies dear, how cling my thoughts to you ! Long as my footsteps tread this earthly strand. The throbs that heave my bosom shall be true, To all the witching scenes that childhood knew ; 'Tis joy, 'tis heaven to breathe one's natal air. To climb the hills, deck'd in the morning's dew. And bending o'er our fathers' graves, to swear No tyrant shall disturb the dust that slumbers there. Such scenes, such tales, such homebred ties, can fill With fervid extacy, the raptur'd mind. And teach with patriot glow the breast to thrill. And beat to all that's noble, generous, kind ; One evening to that col my steps inclin'd. The giant beech-tree wav'd before its door, The distant clouds were driven before the wind, The mountain cataract was heard to roar. Paler the tranquil moon, than foam on ocean's shore. There too, a soldier bent his nightly way. Who'd borne his rifle in the old French war, And mingled oft in many a bloody fray. And bore upon his visage many a scar ; Weary his step, his own lov'd home was far. The locks upon his silver'd head were few. His eye was like the winter's clouded star, The arm, that once the glittering broad sword drew. Was nerveless now with years, yet much he'd seen aird knew. The staff, that in his dexter hand he bore, AVas parted from an oak, whose branches spread Near wild Cocheco's oft remembered roar ; And bending to the Farmer's cot his tread. He gave one rap, and well his purpose sped ; The Farmer hail'd him to his lone abode. Gave him a portion of his cup and bread. And soon, forgetful of the tedious road. How fields were lost and won, the aged soldier sliow'd. In Fifly-nine, on Abraham's blood-red plain, (The veteran thus pursued his warlike tale,) When heroes fell, like summer drops of rain. When rival standards flash'd upon the gale, And shouts were heard, triumphant songs and wail. Where Cadaraqui holds his giant way, I fought with Wolfe, call'd from the dear-lov'd vale. And dark Piscatawa's glades of green array To cross the mountains blue to distant Canada. Hard was the tug of war, severe the strife, Plumes, swords and ensigns swept along the field. Full many a warrior, prodigal of life. Too bold to flee, too proud of soul to yield. His valor with his dearest life-blood seal'd ; Slow bowed in dust, fell Lewis of Montcalm, To neither host was triumph yet reveal'd. Oh, withtr'd be the soul that wrought such harm. Soon Wolfe falls, bleeding, low, nerveless his mighly arm. A soldier lifted up his drooping head. Dim grew th' ethereal flashes of his eye. And from his breast the streams gush'd darkly red, And every gush heav'd forth a blacker dye ; High rose the clamorous shout, ' they fly, they fly • ' Who fly ?' arous'd to life, the hero cried, A thousand lips awake the joyous cry, ' The foe, the foe !' — the gallant Wolfe replied. Clasping his hands in praise, ' I fall content,' and died Thus spoke the soldier ! peace, ye mighty dead ! Bf yours both peace and glory, chiefs of yore ! Who clad in armor generously shed. Where clashing steel met steel, roar answef'd roar, For home and liberty your bosom's gore I Thanks be to Him who our brave fathers nerv'd. Boldly to stand, when fiery floods came o'er. From honor's upright path, who never swerv'd. To ages then unborn, who freedom, bliss preserv'd. And tho' such tales were heard with many a tear, And memory, fancy, feeling, all possess'd. Yet soon, in truth, the gaiety and cheer. That ever animate the youthful breast. By solemn thoughts, unconquer'd, unsuppress'd, Awoke in sports anew ; the slipper's sound, By youth and village maiden, ne'er at rest, Was driven through the circle round and round. And every cheek did smile, and every heart did bound E'en the old soldier felt his bosom thrill With memory of scenes, that erst he knew ; The visions of the past his spirit fill. And as around the room the younglings flew. At blind-man's-buff, he would have join'd them toc But age to youth will not wing back its flight ; To sit and smile was all that he could do. And bravely cry out, " wheel, and left, and right,' To him who blinded was, and caught them as he might .\t blind-man's-buff, who hath not often play'd. At pledges oft the moments to beguile. When sober evening lends her peaceful shade^ When heart replies to heart, and smile to smile ? The hearth is burned with the oaken pile. Such as New Hampshire's forests well can spar^ ; Still flies the slipper round ; a few meanwhile The warriors of the chequer-board prepare. The garrulous old folk draw round the fire, the chair. But now the white moon, thro' the clouds reveal'd, Doth tread the topmost arches of the sky ; The farmer's cot, the cultivated field. The brook, the plain, the mountain soaring high. Beneath her beams in wild profusion lie ; The dog upon the ground hath laid his breast, Forgotten his howl and sealed his restless eye, The sturdy wood-cutter hath gone to rest. The flock is on the hill, the bird is on the nest. Farewell, thou cottage, for 'tis late at eve, Farewell, ye scenes to memory ever dear. Now eld, and youth, and maiden take their leav-e, Their 'kerchiefs wave, and with adieu sincere, The rural company soon disappear. Some thro' yon scatter'd woods that skirt the moor, Some to yon mountains, craggy, bold and drear, And by the Cottage Fireside once more. Devotion lifts her voice, as she was wont of yore. The patriot Farmer reads the sacred Book, Theu with the wife and children of his heart, With solemn soul and reverential look. He humbly kneels, as is the Christian's part, And worships Thee, our lather. Thee, who art The good man's hope, the poor man's only stay, Who hast a balm for sorrow's keenest dart, A smile for those, to Thee who humbly pray. Which, like the morning sun, drives every cloud away Thou Lord of heaven above, and earth below, Our maker, friend, our guardian, and our all, The Farmer keep from every want and woe. Nor let the thunderbolts, that most appal. Of righteous vengeance dreadful on him fall ; With him, preserve his dear, his native land, A cloud be round her, and a fiery wall. With thy displeasure every traitor brand. And centuries yet to come, oh, hold her in thy hand. (t:^N. E. FARMER, published every Saturday, $3 per ann. payable at the end of the year, or $2,50,.^ paid ia advance. JNEW ENGLAND FARMER. PUBLISHED BY THOMAS W. SHEPARIJ, IIOGKRS' BUILDINGS, C()N(;RESS STULKI-. (KOUKTH UOOR FROM SIA'IK STRKE ■'■■) Vol. I. BOSTON, SATURDAY, MAY 31, 1823. No. 44. REPORT, DELIVERED BKFORF. THE PROVINCIAL AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY. (Continued from pa^c 338.) . The second and the last part of this Report Wa? to take notice ot" any circumstances which have transpired during' the last year, either tc encourage hope in the nltimate accomplishment of our independence, or to suggest the need oi wise precautions against the evils with whicl it may be threatenetl. The only circumstance of this latter descrip- tion, worthy of regard, has been the disturbance of the relation naturally subsisting between the prices of bread corn and of meat. When we consuU any tables of the rates of provisions either in Britain, France, Germany, or other European countries, we shall find this rule to hold universally, that butcher meat is double the price of flour, and butter double that o' meat ; as for instance, when flour is quoted a 2d per pound, beef is at 4d and butter at 8d — the second being double, and the last quadruple of the tirst; and that these rules have obtained not at one time and in one place, but as far back as there are authentic annals, and in every na- tion where statistical accounts have been pre- served.* It cannot be denied that these rela- tions are perpetually disturbed by the operation of demand and supply ; but still, whenever any of the articles rise above, or sink below the as- sumed standard, there is a tendency in the pri ces to adjust themselves at the points of equili "' As tlie proportion of prices liere stated to exisi iu:- tween flour, meat, and butter, may be considered as purely hypotlietical, I shall present some tables, con- etrurted on minutes taken by Arthur Young in France and in England. Just before the breaking out of the revolution, that gentleman landed at Calais, for tht purpose of taking a survey of French husbandry ; an* in the prosecution of his plan, noted down every thin; relating to wages, provisions, the methods of cultiva- tion, tiie nature of crops, manures, and in short all sorti of materials which might Serve as data for the politica economist. These minutes were taken in 1787 to 1781 in all the departments of France ; for he traversed tha kingdom by three separate routes, and therefore hs general averages are fairly drawn. In looking into He particular minutes, I observe that the relation betweea the prices of meat, butter and bread is somewhat di- turbed. In arable district?, for instance, bread is lov- er, and meat and butter are higher than the genenl average ; and the reverse takes place in tracts fittal for pasturage ; yet the ratio on an average of the whoe kingdom, comes out with wonderful accuracy. Tra'- els in France, vol. i, p. 441 — under the article, Frioe of Provisions. R CCAPITULATIOS. French En^liJi Money. Monei. Beef per lb. on average of 76 minutes 7 f. 3 1-2 Mutton do. 7 3 1-S Veal of 72 minutes 7 1-2 3 3--: Pork of 28 minutes 9 4 1-S Butter of 38 minutes 16 3-4 8 l-: Bread of 67 minutes 3 . 1 1-2 A pound of bread, notwithstanding the labor of bak- ing it, is always cheaper than a pound of flour, because the Ibrmer is to the latter as 36 to 26, that is to sav, 20 lbs of flour will, after adding water, salt and yiast, make, in all ordinary cases, 36 lbs of bread. FIcur, therefore, in France, could not be less than 2d per lb. when bread was at 3 sous. The proportions tlicii in France, from these numerows and extended uiinufes britim. The great reason for this d'Serence of valne lies in the cost of production. A farmer can raise a pound of oatmeal or flour much more easily than ho can raise a pound of becl' or mutton ; and therefore he should be rateablv paid for his labor. But moreover, meat is more nutritious, or capable of sustaining the body longer, quantity for quantity, than bread corn ; and on this other account an effective demand will always exist for the former at double the prices of the latter. Amongst us during this last year the relation subsisting between these two articles of farm produce has been entirely subverted. Beef during the greater part of winter could be purchased at l|d or 2d per lb. while oatmeal commanded 17s 6d, and flour 2U.s per ewt. At the present moment beef is worth 3d in the market, and superfine flour at 9 dolls, per barrel — that is at 2id per pound. This is a complete subversion of the order which holds in Europe, and demands the most serious and grave deliberation, as involving the prosperity of our rural economy. One trrand error in this country has been the want of arithmetical cal- culation, in reckoning up the cost of the differ- ent sorts of produce which are brought to mar- ket. Few have any just idea of what it takes o rear a pig, a lamb, or a call". Our farmers are thus ignorant, in a groat measure, of rela- 'tive prices dependent on the expense of pro- duction, and they conduct their sales under the guidance of the blindest chance. No man surely dare aflSrm that a given quantity of meat can be raised as cheap as a giveti quantity of flour, and yet so it is that the former during the whole of last winter has been lower than the latter. In England, where agriculturists put down every item of expense under its appropriate head, and ke»p books on as correct principles as does the meichant, it is recognized as an invariable rule, that unless beef fetch double of flour, the occupier should break up his grass lands and bring them under tillage. The relation in price between these two produces a perpetual oscil- lation between pasturage and tillage, and deter- mines the farmer in the destmation of his fields. He tills more when bread rises above, and less when it descends below its proper level.* I have been at the more pains to set thiT proposition in a plain light, because of its vital importance connected with our present condi- tion and future prospects. The opinion has been long popular, that the province was fitted to be a pastoral rather than an agricultural country; and this has been received without much e.vamiiialion, and gained an almost uni- versal absent, It has not failed to produce n strong efl'ect on rural industry, and to creste a corresponding bias towards the hay culture. — On this account our finest lands have been laid down to grass, and our marshes, which under the French were fruitful of corn, and were al- ternately under fallow ai.d wheat, have ceased may be justly quoted as follows — Flour at 2d, meat on an average of all the sorts nearly 4d, and butter at 8 l-4d per lb. By the same writer, and in the same place, it is said that.in England the prices in 1790 were Beef at 4d. per lb. Mutton 4 1-2 Veal 4 1-2 Pork 4 Bread 1 3-4 equal to flour at 2 1-4 per lb. In further corroboration of these relative prices, see Young's Tour, East of England, perlbrmed 20 years before, in 1770, vol. iv, p. 303. Beef, average of 37 places, 3 l-2d per lb. Butter do. 6 1-2 Bread do. 1 1-2 flour being 1 3-4 lb. See also his Tour in Ireland in 1776 to 1778, vol. ii, page 149. Beef on an average of the Kingdom 2 l-2d per lb. Mutton da. do. 2 3-4 Veal do. do. 3 1-2 Average of the above 3 meats is a fraction short of 3d. Butter 5 3-4 The price of bread is not mentioned, becatise the peasantry lived chiefly on potatoes. * It will be found by recurring to our last Price Cur- rent, p. 343, that superfine Flour is about $8 a barrel ■. which contains 196 lbs. and will give 4 cents 1-lOth nearly per lb. Beef, best pieces, from 8 to 9 cents, and lump Butter from 18 to 20 cents. That is, butcher's meat is about double the price of flour, and butter double that of meat, which, according to the author of this report, are about (he same relative proportions which these articles of provision bear in " Britain. Frauce^. !■■ rmany, or other European countries." 1( would ^eem, therefore, that in New England, there is no reason, to be derived from the 'tate of the market prices of these articles in Boston, for any "oscillation between pasturage and tillage." The relative prices which are given for rye-meal and Indian-meal, coal-" pared wi'h the price of flour, appear to us to be about correct, aiul prove, so far as the rules of the able au- thor of the Report ought to influence our tilLage, that -N^ew England farmers have, as a body, decided not improperly in " determining the destination of their fields." There are, moreover, a variety of considerations to be taken into view, as respects the most profitable kind of culture. If a farmer Jives at a great distp.nce from market, butter, beef & pork will perhaps be found most profitable, because most easily conveyed to the place of sale. The nature of the soil, the facility of procur- ing manure, the price of labor, kc. kc. are itei.is of importance, in determining between grain and grass cultivation. In the neighborhood of large towns, where manure can be had cheap and in any quantity, and the soil is suited to arable cultivation, Indian com and other grain may be raised and sent to market to great- er profit than in the interior, because the transport is not so serious an item of charge. Besides, it may be said of lurms situated at some distance from populous places, without cattle you will have no manure, and without manure, no grain. But in the neighborhood of a large town, manure, and of course grain, may be had without cattle. In Great Britain, according to Sir John Sinclair, the grain cultivation is carried to an extreme. He says, " It cannot be doubted that if one-fourth part of the land, which at present is sown with corn [grain] were properly laid down in grass, iDr the purpose of feeding stock, it would be of the greatest benefit both to the farmer and the public, as the other three-fourths would be better manured, more easily cultivated, and would produce as much for consumptioii as the whole, ns^ does." — Kd. .V. £. larntfr. 346 NEVy^ ENGLAND FARMER to be considered as arable, and been well ffigh set apart for the exclusive support of live stock. This practice has been one of the chief sources of the depression of our agfriculture, and has served too long to perpetuate distress, embar- rassment and poverty. The very reverse of this favorite opinion will, I apprehend, turn out to be correct; namely, that this Province is much better calculated for agricultural than for pastoral purposes. In corroboration of this novel statement, it may be stated that a cwt. of oatmeal or flour can be raised at less expense in Nova Scotia than in Britain. To pave the way for our con- currence in this position, wo m.ij- boldly refer to the comparative fertility of the two coun- tries ; and we can be justified on the best docu- mentary evidence, if not to exalt our own above England, at least to set it on a footing of equa- lity. Our acre will yield as much as theirs, if cultivated with like skill and capital. Should this be granted, the point at issue is no longer doubtful ; because the burdens affecting land are here light and trivial compared with the taxation which the English farmers must bear. Tithes, poor rates, direct and indirect taxes, joinlly contribute to swell the charge of pro- duction and add to the first cost of their bread corn. In all these points of view ours have confessedly the advantage ; and are only inferior to them in a higher rate of wages. But if the balance be in our favor with res- pect to the raising of meal and flour, it inclines against us with regard to the cost of rearing beef and mutton. The British farmer can bring these latter to market at a lower rate than the Nova Scotiaa, and this he accomplishes by the mildness of the winter and the nature of the feed. The sheep both in Scotland, England, and Ireland, are allowed to range their otrtive hills throughout the whale year, and to pick up a subsistence from the decayed herbage, heath, and wild plants, which are but seldom covered with snow. The cattle again nrc fed in the foldyard for not more than two or three months, and in the more temperate districts for less than the half of that time. The straw of white crops with a moderate supply of turnips is the species of fodder which supports them, and its principal value is always estimated by its conversion into manure. A heifer is usually taken for winter- ing at the rale of 2(h. — a sum vvhicli here would not pay above the third of the hay vv^hich must be consumed during the lon;^ and dreary six months when our cattle must of necessity bo shut up. If Ihcsc data he correct, it would ap- pear that the Fiiglish farmer raises his meal and flour at a greater, and his meat at a less expense, than these can be respectively pro- duced in Nova Scotia ; and yet in order'to re- imburse his outlay, he requires a dilference be- tween them of double the price ; whereas o>ir farmer during the last year has been supplying the butcher, weight for weight, either at or below what he could obtain, for his broad corn. That region can never be destined by nature for pasturage, where the domesticated animal must be fed by hand for more than half of the year ; and where, on account of the extraordi- nary quantity of hay needed, the very best lands must be devoted to their use. It is this capital mistake which has so long borne down the ag- ricultural interest, and led our landholders to pursue that braocb ol rural economy, where they will ever be attended with indigence and pecuniary embarrassment. The cost of rearing a pound of meat will always in this country be somewhat more than the half of producing the same weight of oatmeal and flour ; and there- fore the natural relation subsisting between the prices should be adjusted at a higher level cor- respondent to the capabilities of the climate. If France and England, notwithstanding the temperateness of their winters and their super- abundance of straw for fodder, require that meat be double the price of flour, it is perspi- cuously manifest that in Nova Scotia, beef, from the expense and trouble of rasing it, should be elevated a little above that standard. What that proportion of rise should be is no easy matter to determine ; yet the principle itself on which it depends is neither hidden nor un- controvertible. In all the branches of a free trade, where labor and capital are not fettered by any impolitic or arbitrary restriction, they ought to have the same profit, and they will tend to this equality whenever men understand their own interest clearly. The remuneration derivable from an hundred pounds in live stock, should be equivalent to what the same amount yields in tillage ; and therefore the prices of butcher-meat and bread should here assume a relation resulting from the greater or less ex- pense of production. These views strongly inculcate a lesson of practical utility that deserves to be earnestly taught and deeply studied. Our countrymen hare persevered in the hay husbandry to the\ out the least encouragement from the Legisla- ture, native flour has come in all this winter as regularly as the other articles of agricultural produce. What the whole quantity may have been, it is impossible to ascertain ; we know, however, that it has been bought up as fast as it appeared, by merchants, bakers, and house- holders ; and the supply is not yet stopped, but continues flowing with a steady current. From some inquiries which I have made among the principal purchasers, there is evi- Jence that about forty tons* have passed into their hands, besides the small parcels which lave gone to housekeepers, and which could lot be traced with any accuracy, but may be sfely reckoned at ten more. This town too is not the only place where lative flour has been exposed for sale. Pictou s now trading in it to a great extent ; and oat- meal and flour are received there by the mer- :hants in payment of debts, and in the exchange )f commodities. Even Liverpool, according to I late letter from the Secretary of its Agricul- Ural Society, had gotten fifty barrels by the ^2d January last, from Brookfield and Caledo- fia, where three years ago the settlers began b cut down the forest. But though we have no means of reckoning' he sum total of all the domestic flour raised iy our farmers above their own immediate consumption, we can refer, with the view of casting some light on this subject, to the books of the Custom House, and learn whether our obvious disadvantage of themselves and of the community ; and it is now high time that they be cured of the strange infatuation. They have been selling beef at a price much below its fair and natural level, vud consequently drawing from their lands a return less by the one half than these could have yielded under arable management. And I believe that our farmers are beginning to open their eyes to their true interests. The rage for grazing is gone by, and better and juster sentiments are succeeding in its room. Our peasantry are a shrewd and intelligent race, and will not fail, in the long run, to discover the best and most advantageous methods of em- ploying their labor and capital. Their own calm reflections and their mutual reasonings are gradually removing the prejudices which cloud- ed their understandings, and are enabling them imports on the whole have be«n diminished in 1 When we appeal to this testimony, the Information is of a most gratifying and exhilar- (fing description. In every article of agricul- Mral produce there has been a signal reduction d" imports during the last year, and in oats and iAVarley we have obtained an export for the first time. At the desire of his Excellency the Governor, an account of the Imports and Exports for the jears 1818 and 1819 has been obtained from Ihe Custom House in order to ascertain the ag- ticultural state of the province before the ex- Btence of the Provincial Agricultural Society; kut it is unnecessary minutely to go into all these particulars, as it would too much compli- (ate the details now presented, to carry the comparison so far back. This Society began is operations in the spring of 1819, and can be sipposed to have influenced but slightly the agricultural produce of that season. I shall to descry the respective benefits of pasturage , . , and tillage. Since the origin of this Society, I J'*' "''5^''*' <^' "'«' although the imports of both e of arable "ese years tall short of those of the succeed- there has been a progressive increase cultivation, and from present appearances it is not yet on the wane. Very considerable quan- tities of country flour have been weekly, 1 had almost said daily brought to Halifax during the last three monlh«, and this event marks a new- era in the records of our agriculture. It will be recollected that when I had the honor of last addressing you in this place, I then stated, " that the prizes which had been " offered for bringing a supply of flour to Hali- " fax had baflled expectation, that three parcels " only, amounting to 2 tons, 16 cwt. had come " from the interior, and that it would be vain to " continue those prizes, because our husbandry " seemed to have reached that point in which " it could about meet the internal consumption, " but had nothing to spare for the capital." — We are now advanced a step further; and vvith- ijg, they swell greatly beyond those of 1822. li the first of those years we imported 51,095 •Since the date of this Report, March 121h, a regu- lar weekly supply lias coiitinui d to come in from the i ccimtry, and the whole quantity, now April 1st, can- n)t be less than 80 tons, as one individual, Mr. Wm. Aacara, has brought from his farm several tons. Kighty tms flour are equal to 914 barrels ; and these being acded to the imported stock on hand will, it is belicv- e(!, meet the consumption of the town till the naviga- tion of the St. Lawrence opens again the Canadian mirket in May. But if our agricultural improvement were to be calculated solely by the above quantity, we would run into an egregious blunder ; for it is mat- ter of observation and of fact that the sleds and wag- gons returning from the town are not, as formerly, loaded with foreign flour ; and therefore our tillage is now e^ual to the wants of the country, and has in part arrested that destructive trade carried on by our far-' mers s.ncc the first settlement of Halifax. I NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 347 barrels and i!81 half barrels cf t'.o-.jr ; and in 1819 the further amonnt of 50,716 bbls. 2043 half bbls. and 3oO bag;?, with bread, wheat, In- dian corn and meal in proportion. These statements should suffice to banish all despondence about our future prospects, and to inspire an unhesitating confidence in the capa- bilities of a country, which has repaid our el- forts with so much liberality. They should also have a due eti'ect on the guardians of the public expenditure, — inasmuch as undoubted proofs are furnished that the former grants have neither been unprofitable nor misapplied, and that every shilling taken from the treasury has been a mean of lessening our imports, and of thus saving our circulating medium ; to say nothing of the great addition made to the pro- vincial wealth. To sum up the whole, 1 ara inclined to believe, that in the history of do- mestic improvement, no parallel can be found to the prodigious advances we have made in the short space of tour years ; and that if the mechanism now in motion, by which this pro- vince is ascending so fast to independence in corn, be neither broken down nor materially' clogged in its operations, we shall soon rise superior to all our difficulties. JOHN YOUNG, Secretary. Halifax; March 12r/i, 1823. of notice you will give it publicity, and not oth- erwise. My neighbor states that his brother, in an adjoining county, sowed a field of wheat the last season, which came up well and grew rap- idly for a short time, when he discovered that the fly Had laid claim to the whole field by de- positing its eggs in the first joint of every stalk. Immediately on this he turned his sheep into the field, who soon cropped the whole to the ground, and after they were removed the wheat again grew rapidly, and from this field ho har- vested a remarkable fine crop of good wheat. I leave this simple fact to the consideration of yourself and your subscribers. Yours, respectfully, B. Buckjicld, Maine, May 20, 1823. " FOR THE NEW E.\GI.AND FARMER. CATTLE SHEDS. J. H. Farm, West .\eu-bury, May 27. Mr. Editor, I wish through your valuable paper to re quest a description of the best possible way of making a Cow House — as to the width ; depth of the trench ; space between each cow ; whe ther to have partitions or not ; how to fastei thera ; whether a rack is necessary or not ; atd every thing that is convenient or useful. 1 have for sometime calculated on making an jJ- teratioo, and have taken pains to ascertain the best way, and thought I had a perfect plan ; but unfortunately for my plan, I saw one pos- sessing more conveniences the other day, which induced me to think if I made the inquiry thro' your paper, some of your many respectable patrons would be willing to give a description of those on their farms ; or if theirs were in any way defective, to alter their descriptions to their present views, which will much oblige jouTf, &c. ' ARATOR. FOR THE NEW EHGUAJID FARMER. REMEDY AGAINST THE HESSIAN FLY. Mr. Editor, Sir — Wheat is so important an article of fool that every farmer should make all possible im- provement in its cultivation. It is like tie other precious things of this world, the more valuable, the more difficult to obtain. Many of our farmers in this quarter begin (o despair oF success in this crop for the present, in conse- quence of the ravages of the Hessian Fly the last season, which, they say will have its course and destroy our Wheat for several years, alter which we may again venture to sow it. A neighbor of mine has lately informed nie of a remedy, or rather a preventive to the eftects of this destroyer, which to me is new, and miy be so to others, and I therefore hasten to com- Bunicate it to you, knowing that if it be worthy From the Massachusetts Agricultural Repository. I do not expect to impart any thing new to the intelligent farmers of our country, hut still as the crop of hay must ever be an important subject to the cultivator; and as the success of the following experiment was very gratifying, I am induced to submit it for publication. If it induces others to drain their low lands, and make them more productive, 1 shall reap much satisfaction therefrom. I have on my farm a flat piece of low land, of about twenty acres. This has been tome, and to my predecessors of more than half a cenlUT}', of less value than has been expended in mowing the alder and other bushes, which had overrun the ground. The difficulty of drain- ing, for want of a sufficient descent, had dis- couraged any thing being done to effect any improvement. Although 1 had occasionally seen some instances of low land thrown into beds, by intersecting ditches, yet the universal practice of this mode of taking off the water, and pro- ducing forward vegetation on the banks of the St. Lawrence, and its apparent good effect, in- duced me to make the experiment. I accord- ingly, in a dry time, in the fall of the year 1 81 4, broke np about four acres of this land. The soil was of a black meadow mould. The under stra- tum sand and clay mixed, making a hard pan. As the furrows turned over very smooth, ex- cept in some places where it was strong, the land was left till the next year, 1815. When it became sufficiently dry, the sod was found more rotted than was expected. About twelve bucks of manure to the acre were carted on and spread, and the harrow was, at different times, passed over the ground during the sum- mer and fall of the year. The usual wetness of the soil had discouraged the expectation of raising any crop from the ground. In the latter part of the fall a large central ditch was opened through the whole piece, corresponding to the descent therefrom. Furrotvs were then plough- ed at suitable distances, and the ground from them thrown upon the beds, which weie made about 20 feet by 60. This admitted a more early ploughing in the summer of 181G. It was then laid down with herd's grass and clover seed. About half a bushel of the former, and four pounds of the latter to an acre. A few oats were sown therewith, which gave a com- mon crop, and were cut for fodder. As the land had not been highly mannred, and the ex- periment promised very favorably after taking off the oats, a coat of manure was put on, of about 12 bucks to the acre; and, it being an object to prevent the evaporation of the ma- nure (as this was done early in the dry season) as well as to have the land left smooth, and de- scending towards the ditches, they were plough- ed anew, and the earth in them thrown upon the beds. In the spring of 1817, the grass made an appearance of most exuberant fertility ; the herds' grass became very thick, and, before mowing, measured, much of it, over five feet. The clover was well set. Several of my neighbors, thinking the crop greater than they had seen, wished to have the produce ascertained. 1 accordingly had three parts, or pieces, in no respect differing essen- tially, if at all, from the rest, measured by a careful surveyor. Major C. Adams, of Needham, and the crop therefrom was sent to the town"? scale and weighed. The hay was perfectly well made, and the result was 16,152 square feet, equal to 59i rods, produced 1 ton, 10 hundred, and 3 quarters of hay, equal to 4 tons, 2 hun» dred, 3 quarters, and 2 pounds to the acre. I am, Sir, with much respect, yours, &:c. JOHN WELLES. From the American Farmer. TO TAKE HONEY. Mr. Skinser, There is a gentleman in the lower part oi your native county, who knows much better how to take honey from bees than the German mentioned in your paper (No. 48, vol. 4,*) and with less expense than Blake's patent hives. I was once an eye-witness of his taking it, and partook of the nice dainty, He has no need ol cap, mask or gloves — so far from shielding him- self, he rolls his sleeves up above his elbows, and goes at it when the sun is at its meridian. knowingf that the bees are all at that time from home. The brighter the sun the better, and the month of August is his honey harvest.— When he goes, as before mentioned, at mid-day, he takes off the top of the hives and takes out as much honey as he thinks proper ; nails on the top and goes on to another, and another, until he is done. The honey is as nice and white as it can be. The bees will ifr.mediately fill up the vacant place, and the next year you have nice new honey again, as the gentleman informed me. a lover of honev. May 11th, 1823. ■ See N. E. Farmer, pp. 322 and 331. WnF_vT Harvest. — Our accounts are varioas, but generally very unpromising. On both the south and north sides of the James River, for a considerable distance above this city, and for 20 miles below it, there has been much injury al- ready done — at some places the fly alone, at others the chinch bug, and in some fields both insects are at wtrk. We have heard that the bug has already attacked even some of the oats, and some spots of the young corn. The rich lands, even in this district, however, may pro- duce good crops of wheat. On the lower parts of Pamunkey river and on to the Rappahannock, the crops as yet appear very fine. The chinch bug is certainly this year in extraordinary num- bers— for within the last week many have been seen flying in our city, an object of curiosity rather than of dread. It is a small speckled fly, that derives its name from its smell when mash- ed between the lingers. — Riclmiond Enquirer. 348 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. From the London Farmers' Journal. ihole ; the plants make their appearance in n«Oui r, f r CI „../;. \f„„„»; ii'„rt^^> 21 days; and when about the size ot cabbage ^ J o t a I plants, care was taken that only one plant re- Ilercdfordshire, Jan. 25, 1822. | gained ;„ ., f,ole ; they were kept clean by a Sir — It is rather unusual tor a man to write I si^gig ho^^^ hoe in the rows, and hand weeding on a subject which he professes to be 'o'«"y j between the plants ; after having had immense ignorant of; and in addition to this, your cor- 1 ygjjjjjjgg of the large leaves taken from them respondent Mr. Thorpe, in his letter of January I jy|,jjj„ ^^^^ ^^^^ f^^^. nionths they were in the 3d, seems disposed to doubt the veracity of one who has planted and used mangel wurtzel for several years past ; however, it is done openly, and in an inoffensive manner, therefore 1 freely forgive him. 1 have neither leisure nor inclination to enter into a controversy with Mr. T. but i deem it necessary to answer his letter of the 3d inst. and to repeat, for his satisfaction, if he pleases, that " 1 weighed five wether sheep, and put them into a barn, as stated in my letter ot the 12th ult. and in that situation they were regu- larly supplied with 25 lbs. o( mangel wurtzcl, (less than tnree roots) and five lbs. of good hay during every 24 hours, for each sheep, and this continued for live successive weeks, at the ex- piration of which time they were weighed out, and had gained upon an average eight lbs. per quarter." It seems to strike Mr. T. with won- der, that animals should gain so much more than he states they would gain, when at grass in the month of .Alay and the followiiia: months ; but when it is considered that the sheep were penned up in a warm barn, and without the possibility of exercise, they were much on a footing with pigs in a stye, fed on barley meal and pease, or like unto turkeys, if crammed with the be^t Carolina rice. It is not at all extraordinary for animals having an aptitude to fatten, to make still greater progress when fed on such a sweet succulent root as mangel wuit- zel, corrected with a little good hay. Mr. T. pleads his being a novice in the cultivation and general knowledge of Ilia root ; therefore, un- der such cucumstancos, it may bo dilhcult for any one to convince him of its extraordinary properties ; it is possessed of greater specific gravity than that valuable root, the Swede tur- nip. Perh3l>s Mr. T. is unacquainted with the fact, that i?-uing the reign of that enterjirizing man, Bonaparte, he passed a law, that all far- mers in Flandois should set apart a poition of their farnii tor the cultivation of this root, for the purpose of making sugar, ami which exper- iment more than ecpialled his must sangaine ex- pectations, (iood sugar was produced at one shilling per pound, when at the 'aine time West India sugar was selling in France at live shil- lings per pound.* This circumstance will give Mr. T. some idea of the nutritious quality of the mangel wurtzcl. With regard to the man- ner of cultivation, I must leave that to the able hand of your coricspnndeut Mr. Addams, who has, I think, promised to give it to us in detail ; but as the method I pursued \:\A seasom may be additional information, 1 will briefly slate it. — The land (a sandy soil) was prepared as for Swede turnips, good rotten dung placed in drills 18 inches distance in the rows, and my plants were full 12 inches apart ; the seeds were plant- ed the last week in April, not exceeding two inches under the surface, with a small planting stick, taking care not to put more than one pod (whic+i contains more than one seed) in each * Sec that entcrtainiDg work Radcliffc's Agticulture of Flanders. ground, they were pulled up about the end of November, (but this greatly depends on the season) and placed in heaps in the open ground and covered with straw and earth similar to potatoes ; some I placed in an out-house, but I think it matters not which. What remained in the month of April following, were as fresh as when taken up ; but what adds greatly to the value of this root is, that it is taken up in time to put in wheat, and the land is in very high tilth to receive it. It gives me pleasure, Mr. Editor, to be the means of drawing forth obser- vations on the cultivation and use of a root that promises to be of incalculable value to the Uni- ted Kingdom, provided we have equal protec- tion with the trading and commercial interests I remain your well wisher. From the American Farmer. ON THE VARIOUS WAYS OF TREPARING AND EMPLOYING INDIAN CORN. There are many things the rich have no need to think of, which would be of inhnite ad vantage to the poor, if they had the knowledge necessary to turn that product of their labor they have most in their power, to their own comfort. You may perhaps smile when yon perceive tiiis preamble is to usher into notice the virtues of Indian Corn. I will allow you to do so, if you can find in my enumeration one use to which I put that valuable grain, worthy of being more generally known. In order to swell the list, I mention some of the purposes for which it is used, that are known to e\ery one, before I enter into the detail of preparing a dish which I consider tiie best, healthiest, and most palatable food we have. I will begin with it before the seed is perfectly formed ; it can then be made, if properly done, a fne pickle. We all know how delicious roasting tars are ; when fit for this use it will make a superioi- starch; if scalded and dried you may have roast- ing cars in the middle of winter. When the grain is hardened, you have food for all the domestic animals in the shocks, tops, &.c. The leaves of the shock or husk, by slitting them finely, make excellent matrasses or under beds. The flour or meal of the grain is the most wholesome we use ; 1 need inly mention a few of the ways in which it is ni.maged in this state, for I should never have done were I only to give you the receipts lor making the various kinds of corn bread common in this part of the country. A favorite way of making corn bread with us, is to make a batter with meal, milk, eggs, and a little shortning,* about the consistence of that for pound cake, which it resembles in appear- ance when baked in tins commonly used for that purpose. In making light bread by mixing the wheat flour and yeast with mush, we con- sider it adds much to the sweetness and whole- someness of the bread ; we likewise in all grid- dle cakes, mix meal with wheat flour as tending ies » lit Cll \[ * A word in Domestic Cookery which implies that butter, lard, or oil, may be used. iv make them lighter, with fewer eggs that '•' ' they would take with wheat flour alone — h i'" short, we use corn meal on all occasions eithe] ^^ with or without wheat flour — not because w< "I have not flour sufficient, but because we prefei ^':' meal. 1 can assure my fair countrywomen the} need not apply to quacks or perfumers, or (1 -s forget what they call them,) I mean those tor Djti eigners who vend poisons, under the pretenc< leW of rendering those that use them more beauti iBti ful ; and recommend them, because a few won is«' out old women have made out, by attending t< ita nothing else but the application of various art! ten to hide their deformity for a short time, wh( [)Ii having no beauty to endanger, cannot fear tht iln2' consequences. 1 say those who do believe ir |siil the virtues of cosmetics will find ray favorite sen corn meal superior to all the washes, de Main- b, [ tenon, &;c. kc. It will render the skin smooth, m transparent and white — and withal it is perfect- itlii ly safe. Only let them try it instead of going ku to one of those venders aforesaid, and spending ijl two or three dollars for a nostrum, which al mf best will onlv be of transitory benefit, leaving 3» t lasting ill effect ; let them put over the fire a ;;: pint of water, when it boils stir in as much fine iiai corn meal as will make it the consistence ol paste — when cooling they may add a spoon full of honey and a little rose water, though the latter articles are not necessary — let them use this paste, or as I vulgarly call it, mush, instead of soap every time they perform their morning and evening ablutions, or, in other words, wash themselves. I venture to affirm their complex- ions will derive more advantage from the ap- plication of this paste, than any of those washes ivhich they pay so high for. I come now to the preparation of the grain, which 1 believe is not as generally known as it o»ght to be, considering its excellence. It is wfiat we call lyed hommony ; we likewise have the best hommony and small-hemmony, both ol rvhich are common, are fine dishes, and supe- rior to rice, when properly managed ; but the lyed hommony is preferred by every one whop is accustomed to it, as being more wholesome and more palatable. It is prepared by boiling the white fielil corn in ashes and water, until the husk or skin of the grain is loosened, which will be the case in a few minutes, and it is ne- cessary to pay attention that it does not remain too long in the ashes, as it will by that means taste of the lye ; so soon as the husk is loosen- jd, it must be washed and rubbed through the lands in cold water until the grain is cleansed rom the ashes and skin ; it may then be dried o make use of at any time, or boiled immedi- itely if wanted. When ready to be cooked for the table, it must b^ scalded and put over to lioil in jilenty of water, observing always to keep sufticient hot water ready to add to it as the first boils away. The grain bursts open info a white ball and becomes soft when suffi- ciently done. This is the manner we boil it to eat with milk or cream, either warm or cold. It is also used in this country by the Indians and Creole boatmen, who prefer it to any thing else in a soup, by putting the com over with a piece of beef or pork, leaving the water in it which makes the soup — in the other case the grain it taken out of the water. A yankee ac- quaintance of mine who knew nothing of hom- mony, has become so fond of this dish as to de- clare lyed hommony and milk to be preferable s It NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 349 ) the best sweet tnr'ats and cream that can li- ad, and I doubt not some there are who wonW link the same, were they eqaally to make the iiil. 1 have been induced to write the prc- edin"'. A MissnpRi farmf.r's wife. A GREAT CONVENIENCE tOR GOOD HOUSEWIVES. Daniel Richardson, an ingenious and respect- ble mechanic, has brous^ht to great perfection ae Refrigerator, or Portable Ice House. Go"k1 ousewives can only calculate the many useful od economical purposes to which this contriv- nce may be applied. The improvements made y Mr. Richardson, have so far perfected the tefrigerator, that it may now be fully relied pon for keeping butter, milk, meat, eggs, fruit. egetables, or nny article of household consump- on, perfectly cool, tresh and pure. All tht bove named articles may be preserved in these lachines as long as desirable, perfectly sweet, '■^lean and free from taint. The Refrigerator lay be deposited in the cellar, in the garret. 1 any part of the house, or even in the opei. an, without any perceptible injury to the con- jnts ; it does not require to be replenisheJ /ith ice, more than once in three days, during r»e hottest season ; and it is attended with ano- aer advantage — complete security against ev- ry species of vermin, to whioh it is totally in- ccessible, and in winter it will keep any article •om freezing, that is deposited in if. Every imily ought to have one — the price is from 15 to ^25, according to size — and the manu- ictory is in East street, Baltimore. — ibid. I 'VEW ENGLAND FARMER. SATURDAY, MAY 31, 1823. The Farmers and Gardener's Remembrancer. JUNE. Field cclture of Cabbages. — Mr. A. Young IS observed that Cabbages " flourish to very reat protit on all goed soils, and have the par- cular property to enable the farmers of clays id wet loams, to winter more cattle than those r lighter lands can effect, by means of that ex- •llent root, the turnip. The great evil of clay irms used to be the want of green winter food, hich confined their stocks to hay alone, .ind JDsequently prevented their reaping those ex- !nded articles of profit that arise from Humer- us heads of cattle; and, besides the immediate enefit from the cattle, they lost also the op- ortunily of raising large quantities of dung, hich can never be effected so well as bykeep- ig cattle. But all these evils are by the cab- age culture remedied." There is another ad- antage attending cabbages which make them ighly eligible on all farms, which is their last- ig lor sheep tbod longer in the spring. Ruta aga, together with some sorts of cabbages, re in perfection in April, and last even to the liter part of May, the most pinching period of le year. Turnips, it is said, will not last so )ng. The author of " Practical Agriculture" ad- ises, that " as the roots of the plants run deep od stand in need of a large portion of nourish- lent, the soil should be well loosened to a good eplh. As near as possible to the time of plant- ig, the ground should be well harrowed over, u ad a suitable proportion of good stable manure J, pplied, as from fifteen to twenty-three horse jjiji art loads to the acre ; or where composts are made use of, from twenty to thirty." We have lieen told by a gentleman, who says he speaks I'rom eApcriencc, that ashes, lime, and plaster of- paris, mixed with stable or other manure, and spread on land designed for cabbages, will prevent a disease in the plant called the fumble loot, in which the roofs swell and become knob- by, and the plant attains but a small and imper- 'ect growth. Cabbages are said to grow well in drained swamps, without any manure. Hog manure is recommended by Dr. Deane, but we have been informed that it is apt to harbor in- sects and cause the fumble foot, unless it is mixed with lime or ashes. Some drop the seeds in the hills where the cabbages are to grow, by which means they escape the trouble of transplanting, a process in which they are in some measure stinted. — .Mr. Bordloy relates an experiment, in which he "• compared cabbages transplanted with others no; once moved. The unmoved grew, and were better than the moved.'''' Dr. Deane, on the contrary, declares, " I have tried both ways, and on the whole I prefer transplanting." Mr. Cobbett says, that " to have fne cabbages of any sort, they must be tvjice transplanted. First they should be taken from the seed bed, (where they have been sown in beds near to each other) and put out into fresh dug well broken ground, at six inches apart every way. This is called pricking out. By standing here about fifteen or twenty days, they get straight, and stand strong, erect, and have a strait and slouf stem. Out of this plantation they come nW of a size ; the roots of all are in the same state, and they strike quicker into the ground where they stand tor a crop." The expense and trouble of this opera- tion (even if there are no other objections to it) will probably prevent its general adoption in the United States. Rees' Cyclopedia informs that "another practice adopted by the late Mr. Bakewell, and since employed by other culti- vators, by which the inconvenience of waiting for a suitable moist time for setting out the I plants, and the danger of their not succeeding: under other circumstances, are avoided, is that j of drilling the seed in where the plants are to ■ remain at the proper seasons, as April, May or^ June, and the following month." We do not| believe there would exist any necessity for' transplanting cabbages, in order to make the stems " straight and stout," according to Mr. { Cobbett's directions, if the plants were not ori- ginally sown too thick, or were properly thin- ned at an early period of their growth. An English writer says, "■ Much injury frequently arises to young cabbage plants from the seed being sown too thick ; care should therefore be taken to have them properly thinned out when- ever the}' come up in too thick a manner." — Probably if the plants were sowed in the hills where they are intended to grow for a crop, and thinned out in due season, they would grow as straight and as stout as if they had been sev- eral times transplanted. Mr. Francis Winship, of Brighton, Mass. in the year 1820, raised thirty-two tons and two hundred weight of cabbages from one acre of land. The following is his account of the mode of its culture : — " The land on'which the cab- bages grew, is the same on which the plough- ing match took place in the year 1817, was cultivated with corn and potatoes in the year 1C18, and with potatoes in the year 1&19. — This last spring it was ploughed once. In June it was ploughed again, and struck into furrows from 21 to 3 feet apart. I then dropi>od leach- ed ashes into the furroavs, one shovel full mak- ing 3 or 4 hills 15 or 20 inches apart; it was then mixed with the loam and covered; a bov followed with the seed, and penetrated the hiil with his thumb and finger, and deposited three or four seeds. This was performed the latter part ef June. They were afterwards weeded and thinned as convenience suited, probably equal to three dressings."* This would have been called a large crop in England, where twenty-five tons to an acre is considered an av- erage crop. Although it might be as well, perhaps, to sow the seeds of cabbages where the plants are ex- pected to obtain their growth, yet as transplant- ing them is most customary, and in some cases most expedient, it may not be amiss to give some observations on this mode of cultivating this vegetable. Mr. Cobbett has the following directions for conducting this process : " Dig the plants up, that is, loosen the ground under them with a spade, to prevent their being stripped too much of their roots. The setting stick should be the upper part of a spade or shovel handle. The eye of the spade is the handle of the stick. From the bottom of the eye to the point of the stick should be about nine inches in length. The stick should not be tape but nearly of equal thickness all the way down to within an inch and an half of the point, where it must be tapered off to the point. If the wood be cut away all round to the thick- ness of a dollar, and imn put round in its stead, it makes a very complete tool. The iron be- comes bright, and the earth does not adhere t» if, as it docs to wood. Having the plant in on^ hand, and the stick in the otiier, make a hole suitable to the root that it is to receive. Put in the root in such way as that the earth, when pressed in, will be on a level with the buff-endg of the lower, or outward leaves of the plant. Let the plant be rather higher than lower thao this ; for care must be taken not to put the plant so low as for the earth to fall, or be wash- ed into the heart of the plant, nor even into the inside of the bottom leaves. The stem of a cabbage, and stems of all the cabbage kind, send out roofs from all the parts of them that are put beneath the surface of the ground. It is good, therefore, to plant as deep as you can without injury to the leaves. The next consideration is the fastening of the plant in the ground. The hole is made deeper than the length of the root, but the root should not be bent at the point if it can be avoided. Then, while one hand holds the plant, with its roof in the hole, the other hand applies the setting stick to the earth on one side of the hole, the stick being held in such a way as to form a sharp triangle with the plant. Then pushing the stick down so that its point go a little deeper than the point of the root, and giving it a little t-ji'ist, it presses the earth against the point or bottom of the root. And thus all is safe, and the plant is sure to grow. The general, and almost universal fault is, that the planter, when he has put the root into the hole, draws the earth up against the upper part of the roof, and if be press pretty well there, be thinks that the plant is well done. But it is the point of the root agaioat * Mvs. Agricultural Repository, vol. vi, p. 25T.. 350 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. which the earth ought to be pressed, for there ' the fibres are ; anil if they do not touch the earth * closely, the plant will not thrive. To know, whether 3'ou h;ive fastened the plant well in ' the ground, take the tip of one of the le;ives ol the plant between your finger and thumb ; give 1 a pull ; if the plant resist the pull so fir as for j the bit of leaf to come away, the plant is prop- erly fastened in the ground ; but, if the pull j bring up the plant, then you may be sure that [ the planting is not well done. The point of [ the stick ought to twist and press the earth up close to the point of the foot ; so that there be no hollow there. Pressing the earth against the stem of the plant is of little use."* The same writer directs to " choose a dry time for your transplanting, for this reason ; if your plants are put into wet ground, the setting stick squeezes the earth up against the earth in a mortar like state ; the sun comes and bakes this mortar into a hard glazed clod ; the hole also, made with the stick is smooth upon its sides, and presents an impenetrable substance to the roots and fibres of the plant, and thus the vegetation is greatly checked ; but when plants are set in dry earth the reverse of all thiii is true, and the fresh earth will supply moisture under any degree of drought." In procuring seed for raising young cabbage plants, great care should be taken that it be ob- tained from the most perfect plants of the dif- ferent kinds, and such as have seeded without any other variety of the same tribe blowing near them. The plants intended for seed should therefore be set out by themselves, at a distance from others. New seed should be preferred, as it vegetates quicker, and is more to be de- pended on, Cabbage plants are very liable to be attacked by insects. The grub, or black worm, in the night, eats off the stalks just above th* ground, and buries itself in the soil as soon as the sun rises. Dr. Deane says a little circle of lime, or rock-weed round the plant, will preserve them, and recommends digging for the worm near the place which shews the marks of its ravages, and destroying it. Some recommend whipping the plant with green elder bushes. Scalding the hills, and then enclosing them with boards, bark or shingles, would be an effectual but a troublesome mode of securing the plants. The Economical Journal of France gives the following method, which it slates is infallible, to guard not only against caterpillars, but all other insects which infest cabbages or other vegetables. '• Sow with hemp all the borders of the ground where the cabbage is planted ; and, although the neighborhood be infested with caterpillars, the space enclosed by the hemp will be perfectly free, and not one of the vermin will approach it." A gentleman told us that he preserved his cabbage plants per- i'eclly free from worms, bugs and tlies, by dib- bling small holes in the ground near the plants and tilling the holes with water which had been poured boiling hot on elder leaves and suffered to stand till cool. If Ihis is always -effectual, nothing cheaper or easier of application can be devised. The following is recommended by a foreign journal. " Take a pound and three quarters of soap, the same quantity of flowers of sulphur, two pounds of puff balls, and fifteen gallons of water. When the whole has been ' .\mcrican Gardener, par. 26(. well mixed, by the aid of a gentle heat, sprin- kle the insects with the litjuor, and it will in- st.intly kill them. Salt, sowed over the ground in moderate quantities, will destroy insects and prove beneficial to vegetation. Too much salt will injure vegetation and render the g. jund barren for several seasons, and so will too great a quantity of dung, or almost any other manure. Sir John Sinclair says that salt in small quanti- ties is useful as a preventive again=;t insects ; and it was ascertained by a series of experi- ments by the Kev. Dr. Cartvvright, detailed in communications to the Board of Agriculture, that a mixture of salt and soot was preferable to any other manure. Eight bushels to an acre has been applied in England on sour rushy land with a beneficial effect. One half that quantity would probably be sufficient in most cases, and we have no doubt would prove an effectual an- tidote against insects of all kinds. Ci.EAxsE YOUR CELLARS. — If you wish to live out half your days, be careful not to be in the habit of breathing the gasses of putrefaction, vegetable or animal. We do not pretend to say whether a parcel of rotten and rotting po- tatoes, cabbages, turnips, and other vegetables, decaying in a cellar will produce what is called yello'j) fever or not. But a kind of fever may be manufactured from vegetable or animal pu- trefaction, which may prove as fatal, though perhaps not quite so rapid in its progress, as the genuine plague of the West Indies, or the Levant. Beef brine, or pork brine, suffered to stand too long, becomes very offensive, and whatever offends the sense of smelling is inju- rious to the health. We have been assured by physicians of eminence, that they have every reason for believing that bilious or typhus fevers of a malignant and fatal kind, have originated from sources of this description. Dead rats or mice, in a wall or ceiling, are detrimental te health, as well as offensive. We very much doubt whether any thing effectual can be done to counteract the effects of their effluvia, unless the substances themselves can be come at, and removed. The following has been recommend- ed as an effectual mode of freeing a room from the offensive smell occasioned by a dead rat or other animal ; — " Take a small earlhen vessel or gallipot, into which put a little salt petre, more or less according to the size of the room; pour upon this a sufficient quantity of sulphuric acid [oil of vitriol] so as completely to saturate it, and shut the room up closely for an hour, in which time it will be found to be perfectly free from the offensive smell." Dr. Thomas Cooper gives the follovving di- rections for purifying apartments of noxious air : " Some common spirit of salt may be kejit m one bottle, and some manganese in another ; the manganese may be strewed on a plate or large saucer, and this may be placed over boil- ing water, a chafing dish of coals, or a small lamp ; the spirit of salt may be poured on the manganese, when the chlorine gas will be ex- tricated by the heat. It will be prudent to go out of the room and avoid the fumes, which bring on very obstinate coughing. After a short time, the room may be ventilated, and then washed, and white washed." COL. JAQUES' BREED OF CATTLE. In our paper of the 19th ult. p. 302, we took some notice of the iinvrovcd breed 0/ cattle, own- ed by Col. Jaques. of Charlestown, and the salj of a bull, which formerly belonged to that g, lleman, to the Montreal Agricultural Society for the sum of ]^500. The Canadian Couran f'T of the 3d inst. has copied the notice alluded to ",' and accompanied its insertion with the follow ; ing remarks, which shew that the introductioi ' of that species of stock into Canada is consider " ed as an acquisition to the Province. '°[ '■ The attention which is paid to select thi be-t breed of stock, wherever they can be found •" will render very great advantage to the couri 'f! try ; it is true neat cattle are plentiful, but the; '"' are very light, and a small ox requires the sam( ' care to raise and fat as a large one, but canno '' yield the same profit. Therefore it is but jus ' lice to remark that the efforts of our Agricul 1 tural Society to import so fine a Bull of th« short-horn or Teeswater stock, with a view t< III improve our breed of cattle, deserve grea 'i'» commendation. Time has demonstrated tha ?" the farmers must turn their attention to raising !«i of good stock, and give up the idea of a contin i' ued aration. If a view is taken of the article: imported into this Province, which can be fur nised by the farmers, it will be perceived tha tbe most profitable part of farming is engrossei by the Americans, the duration of which de pends on our own exertions." Since writing the above, we have seen ai article in the same paper of the 10th inst. set ting forth the good qualities of this breed 0 cattle, from which we extract the following: "• This animal has by far exceeded in appeal ance, and apparently good qualities, any expec ;* lation of them that could have been anticipatec and as it may afford some gratification to thos who feel an interest in the object contemplate by his introduction into the country, to be mad acquainted with his pedigree, they offer th fpllowing as a statement of it, which they Ih lieve, from the most particular inquiry, to b perfectly correct. " Eclipse was sired by the full blooded Eng lish bull Coelebs, the property of Samuel Jaque: Esq. and is out of the English cow Flora, bot of which were imported from England, whe young, by Cornelius Coolidge, Esq. in 1818. Eclipse was calved 3d July, 1821 ; he is th. third calf from Flora, and obtained the firs premium from the Massachusetts Agriculturs Society, at Ihe Brighton Show, in October Ia8l then only 15 months old, and weighed 1243 lb« Coelebs is a direct descendant from the firs blood in England ; his grandsire was the famou bull " Comet," that was sold at the public sal of Charles Collings, Esq. at Ketton, in 1810, si years old, for lOUO guineas ; his sire the " Herl cules," from a first rate Holderness Cow* 0 Mr. Mason's, of Darlington ; his grandame frorl Sir H. Vane's stock ; his dame got by the note bull Wellington, the property of Mr. Collings.' The breed is remarkable for its mildness temper, and possesses the three most desirabltl qualities, viz. in affording the greatest quantitji of Beef, Tallow and Milk. ili ai :11 *The Holderne?s breed is celebrated for giving; i *reat quantity of Milk, and the cows generally gi»« from 24 to 36 quarts per day. — Rees^ CycUpedia. 0:5°" Col. Jaques has still on hand, for sale 01 to let, at his residence in Charlestown, three half-blooded bulls, one year old this month, froi first rate native cows, sired by Coelebs. :,1 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 35) LONG WOOLLF.D SFIEEP. Four fine nve Sheep, of the long woolled breeil. milar to the Bakcwell, Dishley, or Lcicaster reeil, have lately been imported from the Netherlands, by Capt. David Low, of Roslon, id are now owned by Col. Jaqucs^, of Charles- iwn. Sheep of this kind are highly valued in urope for their heavy carcasses for mutton, id the length and excellent qualities of their eeces, which are absolutely indispensable for le production of worsted manufactures. They re of the same sort with those imported by ic Hon. Thomas H. Perkins, for which that entleman received a premium at the last Cat- e Show at Brighton. HESSIAN FLY. The remedy for the Hessian Fly, suggested Y our correspondent B, page 347, of this day's iper, deserves attention, and repeated experi- tnt. It has been tried in the Southern States, jt we believe without success. A writer in le American Farmer, vol. ii, p. 127, says, "1 n of opinion that the f\y deposits in the cen- Lil blade in a few days or hours after the wheat mies up, and is surely moored in its fast hold ;lore the wheat would bear grazing ; and that ey continue to deposit as long as they live 1 i\ e no doubt. In our section of the country. heat, if attacked by the t]y, evidently declines ' the time the blades make 'heir appearance. this idea be correct, grazing can have no her than a destructive tendency. I am not quainted with any stock, except sheep or ifes, that can bite a blade of wheat at that rly stage of its growth below the egg of the : nor do I believe that grazing would in the irt insure any benefit, if every blade in the Id could be swallowed, with all the eggs on em, unless the stock were so fortunate as to" -;e into their mouths at the same time, all the es at work." Dr. Isaac Chapman, in a communication read fore the Agricultural Society of Buck's Coun- . Penn. says that there are two generations these flies. The tirst lay their eggs the lat- r part of April and beginning oi May ; and e second generation lay their eggs the latter rt of August, and in September to the 20th. the wheat, by being cropped, or bitten close autumn, should escape the fly during that ason, it might, notwithstanding, sufier in the ring, unless the cropping was continued till i fly disappeared. And it is to be feared that much cropping would weaken the plants to ch a degree that the remedy would prove as d as the disease. Still, if experiments in aine have ])roved the utility of grazing wheat If) od as a security against the fly, the practice ould be continued ; for fact should prevai' •er theory. We have alw.iys understood that e best remedies against the fly are rich and fiS ell manured soil, and top dressings of soot, hes, plaster, &,c. which, by giving a rapid owth to the wheat, soon put it out of the way the insect. Id; Parsnips may be raised to great advantage as a sec d crop to peas ; the seed to be sowed when the peas The writer of this has been in this practice for IlllByeral years, and has generally found the dtop of pars- fjj 38 thus raised quite as large, and frequently larger, BUI those raised in beds by themselves. The peas Meet th?m fram the «ua when 3tanil.—C»mmvn''d MASS.\CHUSETTS LEGISLATURE. The Legislature of this Commonwealth assembled at thi' State House in this city on Wednesday. The Hon. Nathaniel Silsbee, of Salem, was elected I'residint of the Senate, and William C. Jarvis, Esq. of I'ittsfield, i^liiaki r of the House of Representatives. The Gov- ernor and Lieut. Governor, together with the Council and the two branches of the Legislature, were escorted in procession to the Old South by the Independent Ca- dets, under Lieut. Col. Otis, where the annual Election Sermon was preached by the Rev. Dr. Thayer, of Lan- caster. After the exercises at the Meeting House were concluded, the procession returned to the State House, and the two branches adjourned. On Thursday the votes for Governor and Lieut. Governor were counted, and were for the Hon. Wm. Eustis 34,402; Hon. H. G. Otis 30,171 ; scattering 754. The votes for Lieut. Governor were about the same with those for Gover- nor, and the Hon. Levi Lincoln was elected by about the same majority. Beth Houses adjourned at an early hour, in consequence of the death of the Hon. John Phillips, a Senator from Suffolk. t FOREIGN. It is almost as difficult to extract truth from the mass of matter with which we are presented in our imported and manufactured journals, as it would be to obtain sunbeams from cucumbers, according to the recipe of Swift. The French despatches represent that the pro- gress of the invaders is scarcely interrupted hy a shew of opposition ; but by what we can learn from other souices, we are led to conclude that the French meet with very serious losses in their progress. In the first attack of the French on the fortress of St. Sebastian, the soldiers are said to have distinguished themselves to such a degree, that the Duke d'Angoulenie distri- buted crosses of honor to them with his own hands. The Spaniards having observed them from their fort, ordered forward a 24 pounder, but they were so slow in mounting it that the Duke had ti.Tie to leave the ground. \\ hen fired olT the bail passed thro' a house ^d struck a platoon precisely on the spot where the i)uke had been distributing his decorations, and killed and wounded fifteen' men. Porlahle Army Mill. — Baron Cagniard de Latoiir, who has already made seme interesting discoveries in physics and mechanics, has exhibited to the King of France a Portable Army Mill, which, though it weighs no more than eight pounds, and hardly requires a mo- ment to put it in motion, will grind in the course of the day, grain enough to feed about a hundred men. JVeM Hampshire Cdehration. — On Wednesday, the 21st inst. the second Centennial Anniversary of the first settlement of Now Hampshire was celebrated in a splendid style at Portsmouth. Prayers were offered by the Rev. President Tyler, of Dartmouth University. An Oration by Nathaniel A. Haven, Jr. Esq. was de- livered ; and a Poem, by O. W. B. Peabody, Esq. — These performances, we are told, were elegant, chaste, classical, and replete with information. An elegant and convivial entertainment was given at Wildes' tav- ern ; and in the evening was the most splendid ball ever witnessed in that place. Judge Story, of this town, Hon. Mr. Webster, of Boston, and many other eminent characters, both of New Hampshire and other states, were present at this celebration, which calls up the memory of our heroic and worthy ancestors. Salem Gas. The donations to benevolent societies in our country the last year, were between two and three hundred thousand dollars. Of this sura $59,000 were received by the American Board for Foreign Missions ; and 17 thousand by the American Education Society. Mineral Spring. — We learn that, a mineral spring has lately come into notice, which is situated in Brad- ford, East Parish, Mass. about a mile from the Merri- mac Academy. The waters of this spring are evidently impregnated with iron and sulphur, and have given considerable relief in cutaneous eruptions and bowel complaints. Astonishing Atcumulalion. — In England, a pound of crude iron costs a half penny; it is converted into steel, that steel is made iito watch spring?, every one of which is sold for a hall guiu( a, and w< ighs only the tenth of a grain ; after dethicliiig for waste, tliere arc in a pound 7000 grains — it tlierelbrc affords steel fur 70,000 watch springs, the value of wliirh, at half a guinea each, is thirty-five thousand guineas. CO'Qf the numhcrs nf the JV. E. Farmer alreu- (hj pubtished, only forty sets remain on hand., and they are daily called for. Those, therefore., who wish for the first volume complete, mvst apphj immediately. May 24. PRICES OF COUNTRY PRODUCE, &c. [Revised and corrected every Friday.] ASHES, pot, 1st qual. . . . pearl do BEANS, white, BEEF, mess, 200 cwt. . . . cargo. No 1, . . . . " No2, . . . . BUTTER, inspect. 1st qua!. . " 2d qual. . small kegs, family, CHEESE, new milk .... FLAX FLAX SEED FLOUR, Baltimore, superfine, Genessee .... Rye, best .... GRAIN, Rye Corn Barley Oats HOGS' LARD, Ist sort . . HOPS, No 1, LIME, OIL, Linseed, American . . PLAISTEB PARIS , . . . PORK, Savy Mess .... Bone Middlings . . . Cargo, No 1, ... Cargo, No 2, ... SEEDS, Herd's Grass . . • Clover WOOL, Merino, full blood,washed do do unwashed do 3-4 washed do 1-2 do Native .... do Pulled, Lamb's, 1st sort do Spinning, 1st sort PROriSIOK MARKET. BEEF, best pieces .... PORK, fresh VEAL, MUTTON, POULTRY, BUTTER, keg & tub ... lump, best . . EGGS, MEAL, Rye, Indian, POTATOES, CIDER, liquor, HAY, best, rnoM D. C. ton. 155 00 155 00 bush 1 00 bbl. 9 50 8 50 6 75 lb. 13 10 15 7 8 bush 85 bbl. 7 75 7 75 5 00 bush 72 65 68 40 lb. 9 10 cask 1 25 ?al. 65 ton. 3 00 bbl. 12 00 14 00 12 00 11 00 bush 2 00 lb. « 55 48 50 40 38 55 50 lb. 8 7 6 5 10 15 18 doz. 12 bush 78 75 40 bbl. 1 50 ton. 20 Of' TO D. C. 160 OO 160 00 1 10 9 75 8 75 7 00 14 11 IS 9 9 90 7 87 7 87 5 50 75 70 70 42 12 1 50 00 3 25 12 50 14 50 12 50 11 50 2 25 9 65 50 55 45 40 CO 55 9 9 7 7 12 16 20 13 80 45 2 2i 22 00 TERMS OF THE FARMER. (fc5= Published every Saturday, at Three Dollars per annum, payable at the end of the year — but those who pay within sixty days from the time of subscribing will be entitled to a deduction of Fifty Cents. 0:5= No paper will be discontinued (unless at the discretion of the Publisher) until arrearages are paid. (p^ Complete files from the commencement of the paper in August can be furnished. Q;^ Agents who procure seven subscribers, and be- come responsible for the payment, will be entitled to a copy gratis, and in the same proportion for a larger number. 352 NEV/ ENGLAND FARMER. OUK TO l.NNOCENXE. 'Twas when the slow declining ray Had ting'd the cloud v.ith evening gold ; No warbler pourM the melting lay, Ko sound disturb'd the sleeping fold. When by a murm'ring rill reclin'd, Sat wrapt in thought a wand'ring swain ; Calm peace compos'd his musing mind, And thus he rais'd the flowing strain ; " Hail, Innocence I celestial maid ! What joys thy blushing charms reveal ! Sweet as the arbour's cooling shade. And milder than the vernal gale. " On thee attends a radiant choir. Soft smiling peace, and downy rest ; With love, that prompts the warblinj lyre, And hope, that sooths the throbbing breast. " Grant, Heavenly Power, thy peaceful sway May still my ruder thoughts control ; Thy hand to point my dubious way. Thy voice to soothe the melting soul. ''' Far in the shady sweet retreat, Let thought beguile the ling'ring hour ; Let quiet court the mossy seat, And twining olives form the bow'r. " Let dove-eyed peace her wreath bcttow, And oft sit list'ning in the dale. While night's sweet warbler from the Ic.ugh Tells to the grove her plaintive tale. " Soft as in Delia's snowy breast. Let each consenting passion move ; Let angels watch its silent rest, And all its blissful dreams be love I" restored to life, he fawoed upon her with ca- resses and joy. From that time he followed her alway.e, and regarded her with a look of content, which indicated that this sensible ani- mal rejoiced in the benefits it had afforded. From the Charleston Courier. THE SPANIEL AND THE MILLERVS DAUGHTER. The only daughter of a wealthy Miller of Spoletto, while playing with a large Spaniel, fell into the Tiber without the accident being perceived. The dog jumped immediately into the water — reached the little girl, and seizing her strongly by her garments, strove to bring her ashore ; but her dress was too weak, and yielding to the water, the courageous dog was obliged to abandon his prize. Unable to succeed in an effort beyond his power, the desolate creature ran iinmedinlely to his master. Unfortunate man ! he was yet ignorant of his calamity. The dog informs him of it by the most intelligent sign. Guided by a species of reason, he bore in his mouth the bonnet of his little mistress, and laid it with most piteous cries at the feet of his master. — The wretched father, overwhelmed with awful presentiments, exclaimed, at the distressing sight, " Alas ! my daughter." Not, however, losing presence of mind at the caiamitj' which his mute interpreter had so eloquently reveal- ed, he rushed to the bank of the river and threw himself precipitately into the stream. The faithful dog accompanies and guides him the distance of several hundred yards. Prodi- gious power of instinct ! Singular and h«|)py preservation ! The Miller, once more a father, has again in his arms his beloved child, already carried far by the progress of the waves. She is rescued from death almost at the moment of expiring. Having reached the mill, with the father carrying the chiid in his arms, the Span- iel exhibited an equal anxiety with his master for the fate of the girl ; and when he saw her From the Baltimore Federal Gazette. BEG BLG SOCIETY. At the last annual meeting of the " Female Society for the extirpation of Bed Bugs, and for ameliorating the condition of those who are interested with them," held on the 5th inst. at the sign of the Buggaboo, Mrs. Priscilla Pillow was called to the chair, and Miss Sally Scratch was apjiointed Secretary pro tem. The annual report was then read — When on motion of Mrs. Sackingbottom, that the society do now proceed to the election ol officers for the ensuing year, seconded by Miss Betsey Bedcord, the business was entered upon forthwith, and on counting the ballots it appear- ed that the following officers were duly elected : Mrs. Rachel Ratsbane, President, Mrs. Bridget Bedpost, i ^..^^ presidents, Miss Susanna Sheets, ^ Miss Charity Coverlid, Cor. Secretary, Miss Sally Scratch, Rec. Secretary, Mrs. Rose Bloodgood, Treasurer. MANAGFRS. Mrs. Priscilla Pillow, Mrs. C. Sublimate, Mrs. Lovey Whiskey, Miss Tacy Turpentine, Susan Soapit, Hannah Brusli, Harriet Huntem, Dorothy Drownem, Patience Pinchem, Mary Mashem, Prudence Stopem, Ruth Rotem. On motion of Miss Maria Mite, Resolved, On account of the multiplicity of business which the members have on hand, in consequence of belonging to so many useful so- cieties, that the Monthly and Quarterly meet- ings of the Board be dispensed with. After some desultory conversation on a very (lelicale subject, which it would be improper to publish, it was Besolvcd, That in order to keep peace at home, the Treasurer be authorised to offers premium of one hundred cents, for the best model of a machine for Darning Stockings, which may ren- der the superinlendance of the ladies of the family, both old and young, unnecessary, to be decided on at the next annual meeting. SALLY SCRATCH, Rec. Sec. LAST WEEK'S OMISSIONS. Imported Bull. — The ship Magnet lately arrived a New Vork, has brought out a yearling bull of the sho* horned Durham breed. This animal was bred by Ml Sinitli, of Dishley, Leicestershire, is descended frcn the celebrated bull Comet, sold in the year 1810, fi one thousand guineas, and belongs to Mr. J. BrientnaT of Woodbridge, N. J. This bull is of the same stoc from which originated the bulls Denton, owned b Stephen Williams, Esq. of Northborough, and Coeleb belonging to Col. Jaques, of Charlestown. Indian Corn prestrttd from Crows. — An experience farmer in Connecticut states that pieces of cloth dippe in ^^lllphur and grease, and placed upon poles aboi every 10 or 12 rods, through a piece of corn, will eflei tually secure it trom the ravages of crows. He h.- practised this method with success the last seven ye&t Ilrssian Fly. — The National Intelligencer states thi this insect has made grea^ ravages in the wheat field in the counties of Frederick and Shenandoah, Va. Commodore Porter has addressed a letter to the E>'l \TK STKKKT.> Vo\.. I. BOSTON, SATURDAY, JUNE 7. Vi-2A. No. 45. FACTS AND OBSKRVATIOXS RELATING TO 3R1CULTURE & DOMESTIC ECONOMY BV THE EDITOR. ON FARMS, fARM HOISF.S, WATF.R, EARNS, &C. I Tlie siicriliccs of the ancient Roninns, shere. w attentive they were even in the clioice of e ground they encamped on; much more •re they so in that of the situation and nature the phice where they laid the foundation ol' 5re ia-!ting building--'. Tiiey cxnmincd Ihej 'ers of cattle fed on the spot, when they of-i ed them in sacrifice; and if these were livid corrupted, they olTcred others, as the un-i jDilness of the tirst might be owing to some| 5ual distemper ; but if they were often found be morbid, they concluded that the air, wa- ", or food, which the place yielded, would ve a like elTect on human bodies, and there- •e speedily left that ground to search for a tter situation. It', al'ter repeated trials, they md the livers good, they judged the air and )d to be so likewise, and settled accordingly. its said that the good eilects of those precau- ns may be still observed in the healthy situ- ons of the remains of Roman encampments; ■ they preferred health to every other con- eralion. The lionians had pleasure as well as profit view, when they bought or stocked a farm; i therefore they laid it down as a rule, thai] degree of fc.rlilitxj should tempt o man to jnir-'^ ise in an unhealthy country. "Buy not too stily," said the wise Cato, " but view ag-aii. ] again the purchase you intend to make ; if it be a good one, the oftcner you see it, ; better it will please you. Examine how ! neighboring inhabitants fare. Let the coun- it lies in be a good one ; the ways to and m it good; and the air temperate. Let your id, if you can choose your situation, be at the )t of a hill facing the south, in a healthy situ- on, where a sufficiency of laborers, of cattle, d of water may be had. Let it be near a nrishing town, the sea, or a navigable river ; bordering on a good and well frequented ad. Let the buildings on your grounds be ong and substantial. Do not rashly condemn e methods of others. It is best to purchase )in a good husbandman and a good improver." Open places and campaign countries are judg- to be healthy, where the soil is dry, not irch?d or sandy, where wild thyme and other omatic plants grow spontaneously, and which not otherwise bare, but interspersed with ees for shade. A ruddy complexion, clear bite of the eye, quick hearing, and distinct )ice, are set down by Palladius as marks of iB place where these circumstances are met ith in the generality of the inhabitants. That water is known to be wholesome whici IS no mineral in it, is perfectly clear, has no ste or smell, deposits no slimy sediment, leave? J spots or incrustation when boiled in copper .• brass vessels, and which boils peas, beans c. soft in a short time. " Rain water,*' sayi ir Thomas Elliot, in his Castle of Health, is the most subtle and pure of any other wa- ter. The next is that which issueth out of a spring facing the east, and pas=eth swiftly among great stones or rocks. The third is of a dear river which runneth on hard pebbles and stones. There be divers means to try which is the best water; for that which is lightest in poise or weight is best ; also that which will soonest be hot ; also that whereof cometh the least scurn or tVoth when it doth boil. Moreover, dip linen cloths in sundry waters, and afterwards lay them to dry, and that which is soonest dry, the water wherein it was dipped i« the most subtle." Light waters, other things being equal, are the be^t, purest, and wholosoniest. That water is nccounted best and wholesomest, which is not only the lightest and freest from earthy sedi- menl, but that which is most spiritous. And these properties are usuallj' found in pure rain water, which being naturally distilled iVom the ocean and rivers, or by the heat of the sun raised into the atmosphere from whence it is returned mucii after the manner of common distillation. If any mineral substance is mixed with the water it is not fit for the farmer's use. If it be hard, it is thereby rendered unfit for wasliing, and some other kitchen uses. This is the kind of water which gives flesh boiled in it a red color. But e\^.i the hardest water may be easily rendered perfectly soft and fit for any use, by mixing it with a small proportion of potash, soda, or for want of these the ashes of any burnt vegetables. When water is tainted by animal or vegetable substances being mixed with it, the noxious qualities may be carried olV by boiling, during which the putrid particles evaporate, and what- ever else remains v.ill subside when the water cool«. Or it may be corrected by mixing with it acids, such as vinegar, juice of sour fruits, &.c. M. de la Mire observes in the Memoirs of the -Academy of Sciences, that rain water, which has been purified b}' passing thro' clean sand, and is afterwards collected in subterranean re- servoirs, will keep a long time without becom- ing putrid. He thinks this the best water that can be made use of either for drinking or lor other economical purposes, because it is not impregnated with any mineral, as spring waters sometimes are. The only thing requisite in the construction of such reservoirs or cisterns is to have a place which will hold water, made of such materials as will not communicate any bad taste to the water, which is to remain there a considerable time.* The first water, which falls from the roofs of houses, when it begins to rain should be thrown away, as having serv- ed only to wash the roof, which in dry weather is always covered with dung of birds and other filth. He rejects snow water for the same rea- son, and likewise the water cf rain brought bv winds, which pass over places infected with ill smells, as large cities, sinks, &c. Columella, who appears to have been verv much of a gentleman farmer, and therefore so- licitous fur the accommodation and comfort of ladies, says " the farm house should be some- * For observations on the construction of cisterns, see p. 204, of the X. E. Farmer. what elrg.ant, in order to allnre (he wife to take delight in it," Comfort, ronvonieiice, cheapness of consniiction and dtirability, are, however, the thinn;s chiellv to be ron-inHcd in erecting a faim hnn-^r. IS'o farmer, who has not a large capital, should bogjn with building a costly house, unless he wislirs to see it soM at a sheriflf's auction. His hon«e. barns, &c. should be as near the centre of his farm as pos- sible. If these are placed in the corner of a large farm, a part of the land will be liable to be neglected, less manure will be sent to if, and the expense of cultivation will he greatly increased, in consequence of the waste of time and labor of men and working animals in going backwards and fonv.irds over the estate. This general rule should hardly be dispensed with, unless such ciirunistances as the impossibility of procuring good water, or the want of a good building spot, should require some deviations. When the case will admit, the farm house, barn, &c. should front the south, be sheltered from northerly winds, and the barn yard should enjoy the benefit of the rising sun in the winter. — The farm-sfead should be placed on ground a little elevated above the farm in general. This is not only more healthy, but carts will bring home the grain and other products of the field with less waste when proceer should be lelled in the win- ter, when hardest frozen, and the bark hewed ofl'; then the sap part of such logs will remain white aud sound several years. If the bark is left on them the sap part will turn black, and the logs be worm eaten. If green white pine logs are cut in the summer when the bark will peel the sap part turns black, the boards mildew and soon rot, .as will the logs. A green white pine tree chopped down, will last but a few years, unless fell when frozen, and the bark hewed off. A white pine tree blown up by the ..roots some ages or centuries ago, is the most durable timber we have. The sap part rots, ones for weather boards and shingles. Those made of the green logs are on the decay; — those of the old logs shew no further sign of decaying, only they grow mossy. I am clearly of opinion that formerly timber was more durable than latterly, and for the fol- lowing reasons : — In the neighborhood of my nativity, (Bucks county, Penn.) there are three log buildings yet standing, much older than any person living. The one a large log barn built by my mother's father. The logs arc peeled hickory. It belonged to my uncle. I have thrashed many days in it, for him, and frequent- ly heard him say it was built by his father be- fore his memory. If he were now living, he would be upwards of 100 years old. The other two are dwelling houses ; and all three within a mile of each other. In one house the logs are peeled hickory ; the other oak, with the bark on. Four years ago, I paid, perhaps, my last visit to the place of my nativity, and went to see all those old buildings. They did not appear in the least decayed ; had been shingled a number of times ; ami one age or more had rolled away since any person living could re- member the building of either, or which was oldest. During the revolutionary war, there was a large log barn built in the same neighborhood, and in plain sight of those three old buildings. I was at the raising, did the chopping at one corner, and well remember the logs were all peeled hickory, and were very slippery to stand on. The barn soon rotted, and fell down, and twenty years ago 1 furnished the lumber from my mills at this place for a stone barn on the same spot. Notwithstanding I had seen those old build- ings within four years, as 1 have a younger brother in that neighborhood, since writing my publication of April 10th, 1 wrote him to go and examine those three old buildings, aiid write me the particulars of their condition, kc. He has done it. He says they are till standing ions. SAMUEL PRESTON. Stockport, Pa. May 16, 1823. FOR THE NEW ENCI.AXD FARMER. POTATOES. VIr. Editob, If you think the following article worthy ( nsertion in your valuable paper, after corrci (ion, you have it at disposal. Potatoes, which are the most useful and pr( fitable roots the farmer can make use of, ar often spoiled and lost for the want of a littl attention in planting, and securing them in ai tumn. It has been the custom of many carefi farmers to plant their potatoes very early i the season, in order that they might dig thei before frosts in the fall. Others think they c better to defer planting them until late in th spring. Be that as it may, 1 will give you no way of raising and securing them. If they ai to follow corn, which is my usual practice, plough the ground late in the fall, very deC; and let it lie until spring, when I manure properly, say ten cords of manure to the act if in good heart; if not, I put on more. Abo the 2uth of May, after the manure is even spread, I run it over with a plough just so as cover it. 1 then, with a horse plough, mai out the land in rows, three feet distant one w; and about two the other — then take the se< end of my large potatoes and place them in tl corner with the cut side down, with two piec in each hill. This being done, 1 take two three pieces of the cob of Indian corn and p in each hill ; then I cover them with earl f After they are up a hand full of Plaster of Pai or leached .ashes dropped on every hill is essential service. When the potatoes are ripe in the fall, th is, when the vines are dead, I dig them and p them into a pit, dug on a knoll, with a tren- two feet deep, leading from the pit out, which I place a common pump log, with tl end to the edge of the hole. After placi ICB ki 'a\ M iiir k id E ound, and occupied as heretofore ; and Jrom any boards over the hole, cover the whole with thuig he could discover may stand as much '""g''- 1 (Sickness of earth sufficient to prevent the fn 1 have, some thirty-five years ago, been much fr^^ reaching them. In this way any quanti employed in making roads through this part of, ^^n be put together without danger of tht the country called Beech Woods; and from mykg,^ti„„ f^re should be taken to prevent ti several observations am fully convinced thatj^jce from getting to the hole through the lo the (piality of the soil has had no more to do j^y nailing a piece of tin with holes punch, with the kinds of timber, than the soil of Great |i„ n oq tlie outer end. A FARMER. Britain with the invasion of Julius Csesar. One instance 1 will mention. In crossing a ridge, there appeared formerly to have been a great wind fall, all the trees lying tops to the north; the logs all coated over with moss; some very large. I avoided them what 1 could, and in cutting into them they were perfectly sound in the middle, and were white oak, yellow poplar, and hickory of large growths. There were none of either of those kinds to be found grow- ing ; all the standing timber was beech, sugar maple or hemlock. They appeared to have grown up since the wind fall. By cutting some of the largest they were found to be upwards of 200 years o FOR THE NEW ENGLAND FARMER. RKMEDY AGAINST WEEVILS. Mr. Editor, In your paper a few months since it was o served by one of your correspondents that We vils did not migrate. It was but a few da before I saw that paper, that one of our mc careful and experienced farmers made the san observation to me, giving as an illustration th some years since they got into one corner his garret, in which he had always kept t ;orn, and were troublesome to him there t two or three years, but never got across to tl New England has produced more very oldlother part of the garret. And he further o NEW ENGLAND FARiMER. 355 irved that he had ultimately destroyed then, ^ having In the part of the garret where the/ i;re a lew plants of tobacco when first cut ii e fall ; and that from his own experience, cl the observation of others, he believed this )uld generally prove an eilectual remedj ainst them. My own observation justifies me in the belief it ihey have but little disposition to emigrate, d if this be the fact, it will show the impot- ice of not moving grain in which they are, to rier part of buildings; and suggests many easy lys of destroying or greatly diminishing them. From the American Farmer. \gricijLtur.\l prospects— reversed. Whecitlaad, May 19, 1825. Dr.iR Sir — In No. 7, of the American Farmer ibserve an extract from my letter to you of p 23d ult. and a corresponding one from ano- er correspondent, giving the most favorable presentation of the state of our crops in this :lion of the country; as I conceive it to be importance that the community should be |)t correctly informed as to our " agricultural ospect?,"' and as these prospects are most wo- Iv and fatally changed since the date of the ove communication, I deem it to he my duty apprise jou of the melancholy fact, to guard ainst the evils that might arise from errone- - impressions on this interesting ."ubject. In nsequence of the general failure of crops for ; three preceding harvests, together with the iuced prices of the staples of the country, ■ body of our farmers had become awfully iharrassc'I in their pecuniary circumstances, I they laudably determined to make an ex- irdinary effort last fall to relieve themselves ni (heir difficulties by putting in much larger ips of small grain than usual. The rye hav- r been previously committed to the earth, the iling of wheat commenced early in the month ^eptember; and many of the largest crops •re put in, and finished by the first of Oclo- r. During the ploughing season not a drop rain fell, and that operation was consequently rformed in the best possible manner. At the ter end of September the rains set in — the leat was brought up finely, and being liber- y nourished by a continuation of the most nial seasons, vegetation advanced with a ra- lity and vigor never before experienced, and r fields by the month of December were as rdant, and the growth as luxuriant, as gener- y in the month of April. The winter was t considered to be unfavorable. Vegetation iitinued to advance with unprecedented ra- dity during the early spring — and our fair .ttering prospects received no check, until a w days after the first of May, when the wheat as discovered to be at a stand ; this was at first tributed to the May-weed which sprung up in ir fields a thousand fold thicker than was ever lown ; but as this weed is very short lived, id had heretofore been regarded as harmless, ! apprehensions were entertained that as soon ils ephemeral growth was over, our crops ould revive and flourish without farther inter- iption. Delusive hope ! From that time the ops were perceived to decline daily and rap- ly, and the farmer soon became assured that is hopes were blasted by the ravages of an ^.i lemy whose powers of desolation are unbound- ed, and against whose assault he possesses no| means of resistance. The havoc committed by the Hcssuni Fly is without example, and sur- passes all description. Our fields are literally laid waste, and cattle are turned on many of them, which three or four weeks ago promised an ample remuneration to the industrious far- mer for his anxious and toilsome eare. His late hopes, so bright and so buoyant, are converted suddetilv into black despair. I have already said that our people are generally in debt. — This misfortime exists to an alarming and awful extent. What they will now do under this new and severe calamity I cannot tell. It is known only to Him who in his inscrutable wisdom dis- penses it ! — Our clover has wholly failed lor the two last seasons, and its place occupied with innumerable weeds of the most pernicious kind. The rje crops are remarkably good. I have given you, my dear sir, a gloom}', but a faithful picture — rest assured it is not exag- ger;tted. With sincere regard and esteem, Yours truly, H. S. TURNER. N. B. Great complaints, as usual, of the grub or cut-worm, in the early planted corn. Even mine has been severely attacked under circum- stances that have resisted its effect uniformly for many successive years. The following is copied from an English publication, but whether it will answer the purpose pretended, we cannot say. A trial might be made at a trifling expense. DESTRUCTION OF FLIES. Most of the fly waters, and other prepara- tions sold for the destruction of flies, are vari- ously disguised poisons, dangerous and even fatal to the human species ; such as solutions of mercury, arsenic, &;c. mixed with honey or syrup. The following preparation, however, without endangering the lives of children, or other incautious persons, is not less fatal to flies than even a solution of arsenic. Dissolve two drachms of the extract of quassia in half a pint of boiling water; and adding a little sugar or syrup, pour the mixture on plates. To this enticing food the flies are extremely partial, and it never fails to destroy them. approaches the nature and flavor of wholesome animal flesh. Walnut liquor will by no means answer this purpose. Best method of making common Sirup oj Sugar for general use. Dissolve one pound and three quarters of powdered double refined sugar in a pint of wa- ter, by means of what is called the water bath, or balneum mariae ; that is, by setting the ves- sel which contains it in a saucepan, kettle, or copper of water, over the fire, till the sugar be thoroughly dissolved, and the sirup properly formed. This, besides other advantages, pre- vents the danger of the sugar's boiling over, which is much to be apprehended in the com- mon mode of boiling sirup in large quantities. After it has stood a few hours, take off the scum, and pour the sirup into a stone jar or bottle for use. To make Broth u-ithotit Meat. Boil a small quantity of mushroom catsup in very thin gruel with a few leaves of strewed parsley, and a little salt. The mushroom more than any other vegetable substance, perhaps, From Nilci' Weekly Rtgijter. Something Strange. — The two following arti- cles are from late British papers. We give them as we found them, frankly confessing that we cannot understand what seems so gravely asserted — yet it seems probable that some great improvement in the art of printing is about to be brought into use. From a London papi-r of March 2. Dr. Church is now at Birmingham, preparing his new printing press. The compositor has only to set down at this curious piece of me- chanism, as he would at a piano-forte, and as he strikes the keys, the types all fall from the case into their proper places, with a velocity that keeps pace with the most rapid speaker. The form having been worked off, the type moves into the melting pot, iVom whiuh it is returned, re-cast in its original state, without any diminution of the material, and thence dis- tributed into the case quite new. One of these presses, placed at the bar of the House of Com- mons, would always insure a correct report of the debate. Dr. Church, the inventor, is a na- tive of Boston, in New England." To the editor of the New Globe. Sir — Permit me to correct an article which appeared in your paper of Monday, under the head of " extraordinary inventions," relating to Dr. Church's printing apparatus, which, as it there stands, conveys a wrong impression res- pecting it. The printing press that has been constructed, having flat surface?, and though rapid in giving off the finest impressions, is in no way connected in ils operations with either the composing or type founding machines. — Neither has Dr. Church asserted or even anti- cipated being able, by his composing machine, " to keep pace with the most rapid speaker," as is there stated ; but he has been enabled, on a single machine, to set up more types, and with more correctness, than four compositors could do in the same time. It is correctly stated, that little or no loss of metal lakes place in casting the types, as the atmosphere is excluded from the metal when in a fluid slate, and the only connexion there is between the composing and type founding ma- chine is this — the type founding machine depo- sites the types in the case, in the order they are required by the composing machine, to which the case is afterwards taken, when re- quired for use. It is also true that the /orm, after being used, i-^ returned to the melting pot, and the types re-produced anew ; as this mode of distributing is much more rapid than the present method, and besides insuring a perfect distribution, also insures a new and perfect arrangement of the types in the order required for the composing machine, as well as producing a perfect letter. From the machinery he has already censtruct- ed, and the experiments made in the various branches of the printing apparatus, the most complete success may, with confidence, be an- ticipated. Dr. Church is now at Birmingham construct- ing his machinery. Veritas. London, March 18, 1823. 356 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. From the United States Gazette. ANALYSIS OF CORN. Dr. Gorham, of Harvard University, has made some experiments upon corn, in order to dis- cover its constituent parts. According to his analysis, yellow Indian corn, in the common and dry state, is composed as toliows : Cummon slntc. Dry slale. Water - - 9 0 Starch - - - 77 0 84 .S99 Zeine - - 3 0 3 "OS Albumen - - 2 5 ^747 Gummy matter - 1 7j 1 9'2'2 Saccharine matter - 1 45 1 -iQi Kxtractivc matter - 8 87!) Cuticle and ligneous fibre 3 0 3 •296 Phos. carb. sul. of lime i; loss 1 i 1 C-1!! 100 99 9!;0 The powder of the corn is hygrometrjc, and the quantity of water in it varies with the state of the atmosphere. Sometimes it would lose 12 per cent, on drying, at other times not more than half that quantity. In some experiments on the coloring matter of the different colored varieties of Indian corn, it was found to be sol- uble in both water anil alcohid, and to become green by alkalies and red by acids. A spirituous liijuor may be obtained from In- dian corn, in consequence of the changes whicli take place in its saccharine matter. two spoonfuls of common yeast; the potatoes first to be pulped through a cullender and mix- ed with warm water to a |)ropcr consistence. Thus a pound of potatoes will make a pound of good yeast. Keep it moderately warm while fomenting. This recipe is in substance from Dr. Hunter, who observes that yeast so made will keep well. No sugar is used by bakers, when adding the pulp of potatoes to their ris- ing.— ibid. == PRESFRVATION OF GRAIN, &c. FROM MICE. Mr. Macdonald, in the Hebrides, having suf- fered considerably from mice, put at the bottom near the centre, and at the top of each sack or mow, as it was raised, three or four stalks of wild mint, with the leaves on, and never had any of his grain consumed. He tried the same experiment with his cheese and other articles kept in store and often injured by mice, and with equal effect, by laying a few leaves, green or dry, on the article to be preserved. — ibid. POLISHING POWDER FROM CHARCOAL. Mr. J. Thompson, of Glasgow, turned his at- tention, some time ago, te the property posses- sed by charcoal, ot giving a fine polish when rubbed on metals. This property is not pos- sessed by charcoal in general, but has been found to belong only to particular pieces ; no means were known by which siicli charcoal could be distinguished, except actual trial, nor was the cause of the superiority of some pieces over others, at all understood. Mr. Thomp- .son, in consequence of being informed that the Dutch rush used in polishing wood, owed its powers to silex, was induced to suppose that charcoal, nuide from wood, growing on sandy soils, would have the property required, and on trial this was found to be the case. It frequent- ly hap[)ens, that turners meet with wood which very r.ipidly turns the edges of their tools. Mr. Thompson procured some of this wood, and having converted it into charcoal, lrlets. — All the books of agricul- ture and horticultu.'-e nbich we have ever read, with the exception of 3Ir. Cobbett's work on Gardening, recommend the occasional watering of plants. Mr. Cobbett, however, says, '• Wa- tering plants, though so highly recommended in English Gardening Books, and so much in practice, is a thing of very doubtful utility in any case, and, in most cases, of positive injury. \ country often endures present snlVering from long drought ; but, even if all the gardens and all the lields could, in such a case, be watered with a watering pot, 1 much question whether it would be beneficial even to the crops of the dry season itself. It is not, observe, rain-water that you can, one time out of a thousand, water with. And, to nourhh plants, the water must be prepared in clouds and mists and dews. Ob- serve this. Besides, when rain comes, the earth is prepared for it by that state of the air, which precedes rain, and which makes all things damp and slackens and loosens the earth, and disposes the roots and leaves for the reception of the rain. To pour water, therefore, upon plants, or upon the ground where they are growing, or where seeds are sown, is never of much use, and is generally mischievous ; for the air is dry ; the sun comes immediately and bakes the ground and vegetation is checked rather than advanced by the operation. The best protector against frequent drought is frequent digging, or, in the fields, plinigking, and always deep. Hence will arise a fermentation and dews. The ground will have moisture in it, in spite of all drought, which the hard unmoved ground will not. But always dig or plough in dry xmcuther, and, the drier the weather, the deeper you ought to go, and the liner you ought to break the earth. — When plants are cuzercd by lights, or are in a house, or are covered with cloths in the niglit time, they may need watering, and, in such cases, must have it given them by hand."* W^e do not wish to vouch for the correctness of all Mr. Cobbett's theories, nor can we say how much confidence is due to what we have just quoted. We believe, however, that many people water their plants, when tney would do better to let them alone. Perhaps the question of watering or not watering plants admits of no rule not liable to a vast many exceptions. Tlie kind of plant, the period of its growth, the na- ture of the soil, and the degree of drought which is prevalent, are ail circumstances to be taken into consideration. Dr. Deane, whose authority, in questions relative to American Husbandry, has at least equal weight with that of Mr. Cobbett, says, '' Vegetables that are newly transplanted, as they have their roots more or less diminished, or otherwise injured, often need watering till they have taken new root. But this should he done with caution. If a dry season follow the transplanting, let them be watered if they appear to droop, only on evenings, and in cloudy weather, and with water that has been exposed one day at least to the shining of the sun; not with water di- rectly from a well, or a cold spring, as it will give a chill to the plants. Only a small quan- tity should be applied at once, that it may have an etfect similar to that of a refreshing rain. For water, applied too plentifully, sometimes washes away the finest of the mould from the roots, or makes little cavities about them which admit too much air. " In a dry season, whole gardens sometimes need watering ; and in doing it the above pre- cautions are to be regarded. They are happy who have a piece of standing water in their garden, or a rivulet near at hand, from whence the garden may be watered without much la- bor." Americaa Gardener, par. 187. Mr. M'Mahon says that " newly planted fruit trees will be greatly benefitted by occasional waterings, which should always be given in the morning, and fiocpiently over the branches as well as about the roots; this will be of great service in washing off any dust and filth which their leaves may have contracted, and in open- ing their pores for the reception of atmospheric moisture." " VVatering with common water proves very beneficial to trees infected with insects ; espe- cially if thrown against them with some force, by means of a small water engine. This will not only displace caterpillars and many other insects, but greatly refresh the trees, especially in dry weather; and if often repeated where insects appear, it will considerably diminish their number, and prevent their spreading. " The most eligible engines are such as have the pump and discharging pipe fixed in the ves- sel for containing the water; of which some are of a moderate size for carrying about bv hand, but larger ones are fitted upon a low. ligiit, three wheeled carriage, for the more convenient removal from place to place. This engine may be conveniently used for watering difterent parts of the garden in dry weather." We have heretofore adverted to the practice of Swiss and Flemish farmers, of leaching or washing manure, and applying the liquid part to their growing crops. If your soil is not very rich, it may be well, whenever you water your vegetables, fruit trees, &c. to use liquids of this kind, or such as may be obtained by leaching .'.shes, soot, fcc. or a mixture of all these sub- stances. At Ica.st those who have but little land and much leisure may employ themselves very philosophically in making experiments of this kind. A little soap, tar or turpentine, and extract or decoction of elder superadded to your liquid would be as it were taking a bond of fate to destroy your insects. Thus you may answer three valuable purposes at once, viz : 1st. Water your plants or fruit trees — 2d. Ma- nure, do. — 3d. Kill of^" the insects which infest them. But it may be advisable, 1st, To decant or strain your liquid before it conies in contact with the buds, leaves or (lowers of vegetables, lest it should close the pores and stop or check perspiration : 2d. Apply nothing too corrosive or stimulating, such as lime water, strong lie, or a strong solution of salt directly to growing plants : 3d. If your soil is rich, probably pore water, or at least water impregnated alone with 'ome substance which is hostile to insects, such as elder, or tar may be preferable. Wati-ring with Sea Water. — Salt has been highly recommended both as a manure and as an antidote to insects. Some writers, however, condemn it, and in large quantities we know that it totally destroys vegetation. So a small quantity of salt will, it is said, hasten putrefac- tion, but a large quantity puts a stop to it. We have not merely the authority of books, but we have been told by farmers in this vicinity, that they have experienced great and decided ad- vantages from salt used as a manure. Sea-water is undoubtedly to be preferred, as a manure, to common salt, as it contains many substances fa- vorable to vegetation, which do not enter into the composition of common salt. Dr. Deane observed that " In the year 1786, one hundred hills of potatoes near the shore were watered with sea-water, about two quart* 358 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. in a hill, being one hour's work for a man. — The crop was half as ranch again as in ihe same nuinher of hills adjoining. The wafer was applied to the sod just after plmting the Bets, which I suppose to he the best time ot do- in" it, as there can be no danger of burning the voung shoots, and «s the salt will be mixed with rain and the moisture of the earth, before shoots are produced. <■• In the jear 1737, alternate rows were wa- t red in the same manner with sea-water. The result of this experiment was uncertain ; be- cause by ploughing off and on between the rows, the earth of the watered and uinvatered rows was blended together. But altogether a good crop was obtained. '* The same year a piece of flax was, in the month of June, very short and yellow on one side of the piece ; but of a good color on the other and much taller. This induced the own- er to water the poor side from the sea. In ten days it was equal in length and color with that on the other side, though very little rain fell in the time. At pulling, the watered side was fvidently better grown than the other. This was a sufficient demonstration of the advantage of se«-water, when the land lies adjoining to the sea shore, so that the labor of applying it is inconsiderable. The above experiments were made in a claj'ey soil. " In a sandy soil, the same year, watering Ihe ground where French turnips were just sown, had an excellent etTect. Though it was a spot where the turnips had been destroyed by insects several years successively, they gener- ally escaped this year. Not more than one pailful was applied to a drill row two rods in length, wetting the ground over the seeds soon after sowing. " Salt water applied to tender plants, most commonly proves too strong for thero, if appli- ed when the ground is dry. But if it be wet, the strength of the water is abated by mixing with the juices of the soil, before it is taken up by the roots, and thus it is rendered innocent and safe, as 1 have found b\' experience. The seeds bear the application of the sea water bet- ter than the young plants do." The Farmer's Assistant gives the following directions relative to the use and application of sea water as a manure. " Sea water might be carried from the sea some distance on the land, to advantage, in the following manner: Take a one horse cart, and suspend a tight box, rightly shaped, under the axle-tree, the box having a valve in the under side ; drive the cart into the water, and the valve opens and lets that fluid into the box ; and, when the cart is driven out, the valve closes and holds the water. " When the cart is driven out to the ground on which the water is to be spread, this opera- tion may be performed in the manner we shall next describe: A tube is to be provided, sav twelve feet in length, with small holes bored into it at the distance of six inches apart, and the ends of the tube closed ; attach this to the under side of the box, crossways, at either end, so as to be out of the way of ti)e wheels of the cart. " When you come to where the water is to be spread, it is to he let out of the bos into the tube, by an aperture tor that purpose ; and as the cart moves along, the water runs out of each of the small holes in the tube, and thus sprinkles over a piece of ground of twelve feet wide, till the whole is exhausted. '• With the next load, begin where the water ceased running before, and thus continue the watered strip across the field. Then take ano- ther strip of twelve feet wide adjoining that already watered, and thus proceed till the whole has been gone over. " In this way a man would carry out, say forty cart loads a day, at Ihe distance of half a mile,, or half that number if a mile ; as but little time need be spent in loading or unloading. — About ten loads of a hundred gallons each would probably be sufficient for an acre at one time.'* There can be no doubt but the application of sea-water would prove fatal to cock-chaffers or grubs, cut-worms, fcc. Liquid manure ot any kind may be expeditiously applied m the way above mentioned. The water from drain- ings of dunghills, or that which is collected from reservoirs of liquid manure, or from stag- nant pools, &c. might well be applied in this way, and answer useful purposes. Sea Sand, Sf-.» Mm, &c. may be put into corn and potatoe hills in some situations to good advantage. Mr. Wm. Moody, of Saco, Maine, in a letter to the Hon. Josiah Quincy, publish- ed in the Masf^achusetts Agricultural Repository vol. iv, p. 353, says, " 1 am persuaded, from experience, that sea sand, put under corn or potatoes with manure, or spread on the land, will go far, if not wholly, to the total destruc- tion of those destructive worms [wire worms, which are small red worms about an inch long, the bigness of a large needle] on which noth- ing else seems to have any effect. It has a ben- eficial effect spread on land before ploughing, or even after land is planted with corn or pota- toes, not only to destroy the wire worm and other insects, but to increase the crop. With my neighbors a load of sea sand is considered preferable to a load of their best manure, to mix in with their common barn manure, or to spread on their gardens and low l3at land." Fastening for Doors and Window Shutters. We have understood that a person in East Bradford, (Mass.) has invented a contrivance, which is very simple in its nature and elTectual in its operation, to fasten window shutters and outward doors, both back and when closed. — This implement becomes fast of its own accord, and will be t'ound to conduce much to the ease and comfort of those who may be inclined to adopt it. The expense hardly exceeds that of a common hasp. It is not a patented machine, and has already been put in operation in sev- eral buildings, and perfectly answers the pur- poses for which it was intended. THE GREAT RACE. Perhaps nothing has ever occurred in the United States which has given so violent a fillip to public curiosity, and set expectation so de- cidedly on tip-toe, as the wonderful horse race lately enacted at Jamaica, on Long Island, be- tween the super-superb N. York horse ycleped Eclipse, and the extra-eminent Virginia courser known by the appellation of Henry. The race ground was crowded with spectators, some say not less than from 4U to 50,000, some of whom, if tame does not tell tibs, came no less than five buadred miles to be witnesses of the contest between the glory of the North, and the pride of the South ! Mr. Niles, editor of the Weekly Register, says, that " the cost of travelling and other expenses of the strangers, may be fairly estimated to have been a million of dollars— and the value of the time and money of all, wasted or expended, caonot be supposed at less tha:» two millions. The amount of the bets can only be guessed at — it is very possible that they exceeded a million ; for the " sporting world,'' frou the extreme East to the extreme West, and the extreme North to the extreme South of the United States, was engaged in this affair! Few have gained much by it--bul many have lost what should have went to the payment of their just debts, and are ruined." According to the best authenticated accounts of this most memorable matter, Henry beat Edipse the first heat by about half a length. The second heat Henry took the lead the first ani second mile, but in the third Eclipse passed him and came out several length* ahead. In the third and decisive trial. Eclipse led between two and three lengths. In the third mile Henry came up within about half a length of his rival, but in the fourth and last mile Eclipse main- tained his ascendancy, and came out a length and an half ahead, thus winning forty thousand dollars, the principal bet, besides nobody knows how many bye-bets, and about as much renown (more or less) as the Duke of Wellington won at Waterloo. The following is slated to be the time of running ; First heat 7 minutes, 40 seconds. Second do. 7 do. 49 do. Third do. 8 do. 24 do. This is said to be the greatest speed on re- cord for a long lime. Goldsmith says, (Animat- ed Nature, vol. i, p. 432,) " An ordinary racer is known to go at the rate of a mile in two mi- nutes ; [probably for a single mile] and we had an instance in the admirable Childers of still greater rapidity. He has been frequently known to move at the rate of 82i feet in a second, or almost a mile in a minute ; he has run also round the course of New Market, which is very little less than four miles, in 6 minutes, 40 eec. But what is very surprising, few horses have been since found that ever could equal him ; and those of bis breed have been remarkably deficient." ARTILLERY ELECTION. On Monday last the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company, commanded by Brig. Gen. Lyman, celebrated its 185th anniversary. At noon the company escorted his Excellency the Governor, and numerous officers of the State Government, and that of the United States, to the Church in Chauncey Place, where an elo- quent and appropriate Discourse was pronoun- ced by Rev. Dr. Gardiner. After the religiom » (lie fclr tils I NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 359 exercises, the assemblage moved to fauirii Hall, where an excellent dinner was provide<'. jf which more than 30>J persons partook. After having drank a number of appropriate toasts, the company marched to the common and elect- ed their officers for the ensuing year. AGRICULTURAL PROSPECT?. We learn from a number of sources of infor- imtion, as well as from personal observation, that the summer has commenced with a flatter- ing appearance of a fruitful season. The plen- tiful rains, together with an atmosphere in gen- eral somewhat chilly, has caused grain and grass to set well, or be very thick at the bottom. The tardiness of Spring has kept back the budding and blossoming of fruit trees till the season has made such progress that frost will not be likely to destroy the blossoms or fruit ; and, should the smiles of Providence be continued, this 3, ear will be crowned with more than customary plenty. MASSACHUSETTS LEGISLATURE. Hon. James L. Hodges was chosen Senator to sup- fly the vacancy in Bristol county. Rev. Mr. Jecks, of Boston, was elected Chaplain ol' the House of Rep- resentatives, and Rev. Mr. Walker, of Charlestowu, Chaplain of the Senate. A committee of the Senate reported a resolution, ■which was unanimously accepted, expressing " the high sense they entertained of the urbanity, integrity, and wisdom of their deceased colleague," Hon. John Phillips, " and of the great respect -which is due to his memory for long and valuable services in many public offices of great responsibility and honor, and more especially for the distinguished ability with which for a series of years, he has discharged the duties of President of the Senate of this Commonwealth," &c. In Convention, the following gentlemen were elected Counsellors, viz : William P. \\ alker, Esq. Jesse Put- Bam, Esq. Hon. Marcus Morton, Nathan Chandler, Esq. David Cummins, Esq. Hnn. Thos. Weston, Hon. Solomon Smead, Ebenezer Fisher, Esq. and Abraham Lincoln, Esq. who have accepted and been qualified. George Sullivan, Esq. was elected Senator to supply the vacancy in Suffolk District. On Wednesday, pursuant to assignment, the two houses met in Convention for the purpose of receiving the communication from his Excellency the Governor, The Governor and Lieut. Governor, attended by the Council, the Secretary of (he Commonwealth, and the Sheriff of Suffolk, then came in, and his Excellency delivered a Speech from the Chair. The Convention then separated. FOREIGN. A late arrival at New York, has brought London dates to the 23d of April, one day later than had be- fore been received. The head quarters of the Dake d'Angouleme, according to accounts from Bayonne of the 20th of April, were at Vittoria. The Krench had captured Pancorbo, and found in that place 31 pieces of cannon, with bombs, shot, &c. In the British Parliament, the unwarrantable con- duct of the invaders of Spain was animadverted upon with much severity, and motions were made for papers and information relating to the aggression. On the JKd of April, Mr. Canning declared that he knew of no j^eement entered into by the Allied powers at Vero- 1|ka, to assist France in carrying oa hostilities with pain, and did not believe tiiat any instrument was igned for that purpose. In the House of Lords, ou he same day. Lord Liverpool stated that if Portugal was attacked without provocation on her part, England would be obliged to assist her ; but if Portugal provok- vd an attack. Great Britain was under no obligation to interfere. Lord Liverpool liktwise stated that there was a prospect that Austria would make arrangements to pay a part, if not the whole, of a great loan made to her some years since by Englaml. The Emperor, he observed, has become a bankrupt, and intends making a composition with his creditors ; but he had not seen his name in the Gazette. Of course he cannot be en- tilled to a certificate, according to law in such cases. Ireland is in a state of great commotion. A large proportion of the lower orders appear to be making war on society at large, and to have sworn hostility against all kinds of property. Having suffered for want ■:<( provisions, they now destroy every thing they can lay their hands on, which might otherwise serve for food for man or beast. They are like petulant chil- dren, that quarrel with their bread and butter. If op- pression has driven this wise people mad, their oppres- sors have much to answer for. Burning houses and stacks of grain, killing cattle, and laying waste the country, seem to be the order of the day, and the amusement of the night ; and the equality which is aimed at appears to be that dead level of misery, in which all are consummately and equally wretched. The Pirates exlerminaled, — Havana letters of the 17th May, announce that the troops sent into the inte- rior, and on the coast, to destroy the pirates who had taken shelter there from American and British cruizers, and renewed their depredations on land, have been very successful, and have swept the haunts of those marauders. DOMESTIC. Fine Milch Coir. — The cow which took the premium at the Cattle Show in Connecticut last fall, was raised by Mr. Benjamin Bishop, 2d. of West Hartford, from the stock of Mr. Ozem Woodruff. The actual weight of her milk from May 22, 1822, to April ]. 1C23, was eighty-nine hundred and ninety-three pounds, or lOUO gallons — equal to thirty barrels. Precautions against Disease. — The Board ©f Health in New York have adopted some regulations to prevent among other things the casting into the streets of gar- bage, vegetables and offals. They are ordered to be kept on the premises until the bell cart calls, or thrown into the river, under the penalty of two dollars ; and it is directed that the gutters in front of every building I and lot during the months of May, June, July and .\.u- | gust, shall be washed and cleansed twice every week, 1 under the penalty of two dollars. - Good green oak wood (says a Philadelphia paper) is ' now selling at our wharves at $3,25 a cord. This low price is attributed to the discovery of coal, and the fa- cilities afforded by water carriage. Norwich, (Con.) May 28. Awful Tempest. — On Sunday afternoon this vicinity was visited by a thunder storm which prostrated sev- eral barns, fences, trees, ice. and occasioned other de- struction. At Montville, while the Rev. Pastor of the Church in that place was directing the attention of his flock to the tempest, by reading the hymn which be- gins : Methinks the last great day has come, Methinks I hear the trumpet sound. That shakes the earth, rends every tomb. And wakes the prisoners under ground, a bolt of lightning struck the cupola of the meeting- house, shattered the belfry, shivered several of the posts and pews in the interior, and instantly killed Mrs. Bradford, a widow, aged 72, and Mary Comstock, a child of nine years of age, and injured several other persons. There was no conductor to the house ; and the vane was supported by a piece of iron, which it is supposed attracted the lightning. Another meeting- house was struck about the same time, and tht light- ning being conducted by the rod, did the building no injury. Captains Rodgers, Chauncey and Morris, are on a visit of inspection to the northern naval posts. AGRICULTURAL ESTABLISH.MENT, NO. 20, MERCHANTS' ROW, (fc5-^/ Ike East End of the Old Market.U^ FOR sale as above, a variety of the most approved single and doubl<> mould board Ploughs, C. Howard's improved cast iron mould board, with wrought Shear and Coulter, Cast iron do. do. do. J. Seaver & Co's. do. do. Bigtlow's wrought do. do. Warren's much approved common Ploughs, Sinclair's side hill do. do. do. Howard's much improved Cultivator, an implement highly esteemed for its utility in drill cultivation. Rennet's Broad Cast, Seed Sowing Machines, for large and small seeds, , Eastman's improved Straw Cutter, Safford's new invented Straw Cutter, much improved, ( Common hand Straw Cutters, j An English Vegetable Cutter, Stevens' patent steel spring Hay and Manure Forks, ' Steel spring Potatoe Hoes, English cast steel broad Hoes, Common and steel do. do. .\ great variety of Garden and other Agricultural Implements. June 5. PRICES OF COUNTRY PRODUCE, &c. [Revised and corrected every Friday.] FROM TO D. C. D. C. ASHES, pot, 1st qiial . . . ton. 155 00 160 00 pearl do 155 00 160 00 BEANS, white, bush 1 00 1 10 BIIEF, mess, 200 cwt. . . bbl. 9 50 9 75 cargo. No 1, . . . 8 50 8 75 " No 2 7 00 7 25 BUTTER, inspect. 1st qual. . lb. 12 13 " 2d qual. 10 11 small kegs, family. 14 15 CHEESE, new milk . . . 1 9 FLAX 8 9 FLAX SEEP bush 85 90 FLOUR, Baltimore, superfine, bbl. 7 75 7 87 Genessee . . . 7 62 7 87 Rye, best . . . 4 87 5 25 GRAIN, Rye .... bush 72 75 Com .... 63 65 Barley .... 65 70 Oats .... 40 42 HOGS' LARD, 1st sort lb. 9 HOPS, No 1, 10 12 LIME, cask 1 25 1 50 OIL, Linseed, American ■ gal. 65 00 PLAISTF.R PARIS . . . ton. 3 00 3 25 PORK, Navy Mess . . . bbl. 12 00 12 50 Bone Middlings . . 14 00 14 50 Cargo, No 1, . . 12 00 12 50 Cargo, No 2, . . 11 00 11 50 SEEDS, Herd's Grass . . bush 2 00 2 25 Clover .... lb. 8 9 WOOL, Merino, full blood,wasl led 55 65 do do unwasl led 48 50 do 3-4 wasl led 50 55 do 1-2 d 0 40 45 Native . . . . d 0 38 40 Pulled, Lamb's, 1st so t 0.") 60 do Spinnmg, 1st s ort 50 55 PROVISIOy M.iRKET. BEEF, best pieces . . . lb. 8 9 PORK, fresh 7 8 VEAL 6 47 8 LAME, pf r quarter . . . 50 POULTRY 10 12 BUTTER, keg & tub . . 14 15 lump, best . . Ifi IS EGGS, doz. 12 13 MEAL, Rye, bush 75 80 Indian, .... 75 POTATOES 40 45 CIDER, liquor, .... . bbl. 1 5( 2 25 HAY, best, ton. 2000 22 00 300 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. from Ike Hancock Gaulle. POT-LUCK. Yankees are famM for " everlasting dinner-." So call'd by John BnlTs g:r>rmaudiziag sinner?. Whene'er of such a Frenchman comes in view, He cries at ouce nith wonder — '■ O, mon Dicu 1" The Yankee still is modest and polite ; And when a favorite guest he would invite, 'Ti«, " come and dine with me, good sir, to-day, In a snug, family, familiar way :" — Or, " take pot-luck ; I promise not a treat ; But commonly can something find to cat." A traveller once from France, all nice and pretty, ArrivM in famous Boston town — now city ; Caird at a merchant's counting-room, and there Says, " Sare, me have one letter to you sare." The merchant o'er it cast a careful glance, And found 'twas from a faithful friend in France. " Dear sir," says hr, " call in at four and dine With me on pot-luck., lake a glass of wine. Then at our leisure wc can talk the better About the contents of this pleasing letter." " Sartaiu, good sare, my compliments I pay ; Sartain I tall," then bow'd and went away ; Thinking in French, " what is this ;;o/-/uf/i dish? Is it made up of flesh, or fowl, or fish ? It sure must be a dainty in this nation ; I'll dine agreeable to iuvitation." The Frenchman watch'd ; and when the clock stiuck four, lie gave four knocks upon the merchant's door ; Was usher'd in ; — by all was kindly greeted, Soon at the table honorably seated ; A table groaning with a vast variety. Where gluttony might stuff e'en to satiety. Says merchant to the Frenchmen, " Sir, you see, We treat our friends sans ctre-mo-ni-c. What from this quarter shall I to you pass? There's a boil'd turkey here, and oyster sauce. Sir, you must look about you — there, by ma'am. Are some boil'd chickens and a decent h.-un." *' O sare, me take von very Icetel piece Of ham and shicken, sare, if madame please," 'Twas handed, and he nibbled, as unable To relish any thing upon the table. This course remov'd, another soon appcar'd, Which even Epicurus might have cheer'd ; Roast turkey, goose, ducks, chickens, partridge, brants ; The merchant fell to carving. — " Come, who wants A piece of this, or this, or that, or t'other ? I'll help each guest as tho' he were my brother." The Frenchman nibbled, as he did before. But look'd as though expecting something more. Next in came puddings, custards, jellies, pies ; He nibbled still, and star'd with wondering eyes, When told on these he must attempt to dine, A? there was nothing more, but fruits and wine. '■ -Vo more !" cries Frenchmen ; " den I plainly see, 1 make mistake, kind sare ; you pardon me ; Your language I no understand ; O, vat luck ! 1 vailed all dis time to dine on poT-i.rrK I" ■'■■ From the UniUd States Gazette. HYDRAULICKS. Description of the Took used in Boring for Water. " The first tool used is an anger ; the shell part, wliicli forins llie hole or bore in the earlh or strata thro' whicli it ().nssef>, is mostly from 2i to 3 inches in diamcttt ; the hollow part of it being about one foot four inches in length, and constructed nearly in the form of the car- penter's common auger. The rod parts are formed in separate pieces, of four feet long each, which screw into one another by means of what is usually termed a male and female screw, to any suitable length, one after another as the depth of the hole or bore may require. The size of the stem above the auger part is about an inch square, except at the joints, where, for the sake of strength, they are a quarter of an inch more. There are also a chisel and punch for screwing on, in going through hard gravel or metallic substances, in order to expedite the passage of the auger, which could not otherwise perforate such hard bodies. The punch is often used when the au- ger is not applied, to pierce or open the sand or gravel, and give a more easy issue or dis- charge to the water. The chisel is an inch and a half or two inches broad at the point, and made very sharp for cutting stone, and the punch an inch square like the other part of the rods, with a sharp point also. There is a shifting handle of wood which is fastened with two iron wedges affixed to it, for the purpose of turning round the rods in boring, and also two iron keys for screwing and unscrewing the rods, and for assisting the handle when the soil is very stifT, more than two men being required to turn the wheel ; sometimes a windlass is used. The manner of using the auger in working it, is simply thus : two or three men are necessary. Two stand on a stage, erected about 12 or 14 feet above the ground, who turn it round by means of a wooden handle, and when the auger part is full, they draw it up out of the hole, and the roan below clears out the earth with an instrument for the purpose, and assists in pull- ing the anger up out of the hole or bore, and in directing it into it again, and can also assist in turning with the iron handle or key, when the depth and length of the rods require additional force to perform the operation. The workmen should be careful in boring, not to go deeper at one time, without drawing an exact length of the shell of the auger, otherwise the earth, clay or sand, through which it is boring after the shell is full, may make it difficult to pull out. .\ cylindrical pipe being placed in the hole and driven downward with a mallet, and the boring continued, the pipe may be i'nrcod down to a greater depth, so as to reach the water or spring. Wells made in this manner are supe- rior to those constructed in the common meth- od, not only in point of cheapness, but also bv affording a more certain and constant supply of water. In case the water near the surface should not be of good quality, the perforation may be continued to a greater depth, till a pure Huiil can be procured. The pipes should be either of cast iron, or other metallic substance, and made to fit, with great exactness, the aperture made by the bor- ing auger, or they would not be durable, but speedily become leaky and out of order. The best mode would therefore probably be that of having metallic pipes cast for the purpose, and formed so as to lit exactly upon each other, to any depth that might be necessary in boring for water. When old wells have become in- jured or tainted from any circumstance or acci- dent, being previously emptied, the bottom may be perforated in a similar manner, so as to reach the lower sheet of water or main spring. The water will then rise in the cylindrical tubei in a pure stale, and flow into the body of thelf' well or pump lixed for the purpose of briogingi ii" it up." ° p From the Providence Gazette. .•\ machine for removing the sick has been invented by Mr. .Tohn C. Jenckes, of this town, which, where it has been in operation, is pro- nounced to he of great utility. A person con- fined to his bed, may by this machine be raised with perfect ease to himself, and with little ef. fort or labor on the part of attendants, to such a height and for such a time, as to give an op- portunity lor making the bed and for changing the linen ; and in warm weather the patient may be much refreshed by being raised and kept at a distance from the bed. The motion is so regular and easy that it is stated a person asleep may be raised without being awakened. A committee of the Association of Mechanics and Manufacturers of this town, having examin- ed the machine, made a favorable report res- pecting it ; and by the recommendation of that committee, the Association have ordered one to be procured for the use of the members. SI' (([ !f [It From the Detroit Gazette. CoAi,. — There has lately been discovered in the vicinity of Flint river, in this territory, a quarry of Slate Coal. We were furnished with a specimen of it, and found that it burned ea- sily on applying the blaze of a candle to it. Its grain is very fine, and it does not soil even the whitest paper when rubbed upon it. The flame which it produces is considerable, and of a white appearance, and the effluvia of the smoke is much like that which is thrown out by the English cubical coals, used in some of our com- mercial cities. Its ashes are white, and not abundant, and from its durability and heat in an igneous state, it is believed that this coal will become, in a short time, an article of conse- quence to the people of the territory. We have been informed that the quarry is of considerable extent, and that gentlemen have already gone to examine it. ■T iki til 111 Saint Foix tells a story of a young woman, who, on a promise of marriage, suffered herself to be seduced by her affection and the tears and intreaties of her lover. He immediately after became rich and broke his promise. Her rela- tions, in spite of her opposition, sued the seduc- er, and he was condemned either to marry her or pay her one tiiousand francs. When they came to announce to the high-spirited girl the result, " I refuse both," said she ; " 1 will nei- ther sell my virtue, nor be the wife of a scoun- drel.'' She took the veil. TERMS OF THE FARMER. 0^ Published every Saturday, at Thref Dollars per annum, payable at the end of the year- -hut Ihos^ who pay within sixly days from the time of subsciibing will he entitled to a deduction of Fifty Cknts. 0:5= No paper will be discontinued (unless at thf discretion of the Publisher) until arrearages are paid. 0:5= Complete files from the commencement of the paper in August can be furnished. (^CT" Agents who procure seven subscribers, and be- come responsible for the payment, will be entitled to ^ copy gratis, and in the same proportion for a largef number. m !i fll (If if ire k 1)1 Id II in \ JNEW ENGLAND FARMER. PUBLISHED BY THOMAS W. .SllEPARD. HOtiK.RS' BtJILUlMGS^ CONGRESS STREET, (FOURTH DOOR IllOM SJ'ATK STREET.) Vol. I. ~ ~ BOSTON, SATURDAY, JUNE 14, 1823. No. 46. FACTS AN-D OBSKRVATIONS RELATrNG TO I :i( I'LTURF. fc DOMESTIC ECONOMY. BY THE r.DITOR. whose heads should be towards the entry. The foundations of the partitions, a stone wall 18 inches thick, rising 10 or 12 inches at least ibove the floor, on which a frame of wood vork should rise to the joists. The stable floors ?aved vvith pebble stones, descending from the irouRJis, with a like descent towards the door. « THE SITUATION AND CONSTRUCTION OF BARNS. The observations and directions of foreign filers on husbandry, relating to this branch of ^'^'^ advantages of such a floor are, that it will ral economy, are very copious. Some valu- ; '°' harbor rats and other vermin, and is durable ; lie ideas for an American farmer may be ex-|'''^' hardness ought to be no objection, as plenty icted from the mass of matter, though the i°' |^^<''''"o should befurnishedforthepurpo.se eater part is not adapted to our climate and 'finceasing the quantity of dung. Raise the reumstances. The following remarks were ' '"■"" '^"f"' *even feet above the bottom of the ritten by Mr. Samuel Gibson, an intelligent ; '"7-"'°'"' which will leave 12 feet for the mnsylvanla farmer, " who to the experience! '<^'a'>' of the barn floor, which ought also to be an excellent practical agriculturist, add* that ''^ breadth. The advantages of raising it thus a* active and ingenious mechanic, and who ^^ many; the labor of pitching your hay is s erected a spacious barn, which is esteemed. "^'■>' much reduced; you acquire a good room competent judges, a model ot neatness and : 'etween that and the stables for stowing grain, nvenience."* His opinion in general, on the I -'^- The labor of raising the entrance to the nstruction of such a building of stone, sutfi-j '''"■" ^^°°^ '* trifling in comparison of what the int to accommodate a well cultivated farm of ''"^"■'.o*^ pitching it would otherwise occasion () acres, 40 of which may be supposed to be tod land, is as follows : •' The situation should be as near the middle the farm as can conveniently be, and on )und sloping towards the south, so as to admit water being brought through wooden pipes, m the ground above, and raised in the yard )ractical)le, or at least that it may pass thro' yard. The scite should not be nearer than nor farther than 100 yards from the dwel- j-house, as in case of tire breaking out in ei ind if the ground rises with a considerable an- jle, backwards, the difiiculty of raising the gang- way will be still less. The barn floor should le laid with three inch oak plank, well season- ul ; each plank ploughed with a half inch iron, vithin an inch of the lower edge, and a strip put ill each point, which will keep the whole firm ind solid, and effectually prevent dust, &c. from jetting through; it might also be an advantage o have glass windows in the granary, and back of the barn floor, the sides of which may be de- r, the other might be safe ; it also conduces 'envater takes away the goodness of the butter. — But if any of the goodness can be washed away, why is it not done with the brine, which is gen- erally added to preserve it? Every one must know, there is no athnity between oil and water ; and such is the nature of butter. By letting the water, in which the butter is washed, stand for a time after being used, it will be easy to dis- 'over what part or qiiality of the butter is taken out; as it will gather upon the top — which will convince any one, that there is nothing taken from it which should not be. It is the general practice of those who put down butter to keep, to put it down in biine, which I consider the best method of preserving it; and unless it is cleansed from the milk, this brine becomes a butter-milk-brine, and will not preserve it from rancidity — so it is when the butter is not put into brine, the salt mixing with Ihc particles of sour milk left in the butter; — whereas, on the contrary, if the batter is wash- '"d in pure water till it runs clear from it, the little particles of water which arc retained in the butter, when salted, assist to dissolve the salt, and become, of themselves, pure particles of brine, interspersed throughout, which will effectually preserve it. Now, if brine be a pre- servative, which is universally acknowledged, of what consequence is it, in what manner it comes into the butter, provided it is pure and clear when it gets there ; — whether it be added ai"ter the butter is made, salted, and carried to the merchant, or at the time it is made? It seems very rational, that the sooner the butter is reft of the sour milk, and a pure brine takes its place, the better it is. In hot weather, butter is frequently brought to market full of little hard specks of coagulated milk, rhis is thought by some, impossible to prevent ; — but it may, in a measure be remedied, Ky often stirring the cream, after skimming; and what remains may be entirely got out by washing. The cream, however, should never stand till thijJcoagulation so forms. Butter be- ing of a concrete substance, the union of its con- stituent parts is formed wilh ditficulty, through the imposing barriers, conjunct with its original state ; and these are scarce ever so entirely re- moved, but that something of an acid nature re- mains in it. Let the butter be sweet when churned, and every acid substance removed from it by washing, and it will not, with lacility, inhale from the atmosphere, that substance which, being cherished, as it lights upon the surface, by particles of acidity, creates that foe- tid, offensive flavor, usually called /roti'. Rancid butter is said to be one of the most un- wholesome and indigestible of foods ; — and if there can be any improvement upon the man- ner of preserving it, it will not only prove ben- eficial to the general health, as an article of consumption — but will enhance its value, as a marliet commodity. A. B. From the Dutcliess Observer. Ma. Barnum — The season will soon srrive when almost every farmer can save his own Tim- othy Seed, and that at an expense of not more than seventy five cents per bushel, while the market pi ice is generally from 4 to 5 dollars. — I take an interest in the im[)rovements of agri- culture and the happiness of my fellow citizens : and herewith furnish you with the following mode of saving this kind of grass seed, which 1 think is at once cheaper, easier and better, than any other mode with which I am acquain- ted. PnocEss. — When about half of the heads or tops of the grass had changed their appearance, or become whitish, I sent two men with mowing scythes, and one with a common grain cradle (the fingers of which were pretty close togeth- er, to gather up the heads of the grass and to prevent them from dropping through) into the field ; and they began to work in the following manner. One of the men, with his scythe, mow- ed a szealk to make room for the tops of the grass to be laid from the cradle. Tho. man with the cradle followed, cutting the tops of the standing grass as high as could conveniently be done and save the heads — laying the same in or near the middle of the mown swath, (in the same manner that grain is laid from the craiile) for the purpose of leaving room for the mown grass or stubble, of the mower, who immediate- ly followed the cradle. In this manner, the tops were kept separate from the mown sluhble. It w.is found necessary for the man using the cra- dle, to stand near the edge of the standing grass, that he might with more facility lay his to])s out of the way of the stubble, to be cut after him it was also found that one man with a cradle, would cut the tops about as fast as two others could mow the stubble after him. And in this manner they proceeded till they had cut as much as was intended. Then with rakes, they gathered up three or four of the seed or cradle swaths, and laid thera sufficiently spread, by the side of another cra- dle swath ; which made a space for spreading the hay or stubble, which at a proper time, was raked and carried off. The seed tops remained, as above described four or five days, (which when the weather is dry will generally be long enough) and then it was ready for threshing. The tops may be threshed with horses or flails — which ought to be done on a hot, dry day, and as soon as th At heads are sufficiently dry. I threshed mine la; " ^eascn on the fourth day after being cut, wit ;.irscs — within half a day — from grass whic grew on about 1 1-4 acre of ground, and it di not stand very thick. , MARTIN E. WINCHELL. D A'orM £ai/, JV% 12, 182.3. son lit From the Albany Plough Boy. From the first settlement of America, land have always been considered so plenty and s cheap by our predecessors, that little attenti© f has heretofore been had to economise the soil Recently, from a variety of concurring circum stances, especially from the stimulating mca« ures of numeious agricultural societies, it i found much to the interest and happiness of in dividuals to renovate worn out lauds, as thef""' have been called, in preference to submitting t the privations and miseries of seeking new land in distant regions. Among numerous success ful experiments to renovate worn out lands, th following well authenticated fact is worthy th notice of every farmer. David Lawton, a (z^u; kcr farmer, from Rhode Island, settled som years ago in the town of Washington, eountv c Dutchess, 1.3 miles east of Poughkeepsie. Hi neighbor .\mos Herrick, pressed him for som time to purchase 20 acres of land adjoining hi farm, which had been lying in common, as wor out abandoned land, for seven years. At lengt Lawton purchased the 20 acres at §5 an acr( payable in five years without interest, with th privilege to abandon at the termination of tha period. Lawton's purchase was the sport c the neighborhood ; it was pronounced wort nothing, as it was subject to a small tax, an tbat even mullen would not grow on it. Th ensuing spring Lawton fenced in the 20 acr< with substantial rails, and proceeded as follows First year, ploughed deep, sowed oats, an put on 8 quarts of clover seed ; and a bushel c plaster, immediately after sowing, to the acre and soon after the field became green, a secoH' bushel of plaster to the acre; left the crop t rot on the ground, and permitted no creature t run on the land. Second year, put on another bushel of plas ter to the acre in the spring ; there was a goo^ crop of clover, which was again left to rot oi the ground, and no creature permitted to i'eei on it. Third year, nothing was done in the spring but a vigorous growth of clover covered th* whole twenty acres, which was ploughed ii with 4 oxen to a good depth ; the whole tieli smoked while the clover was in a state of de composition. As soon as it was sufficiently rol ted, the field was cross-ploughed, and when mel lowed it was thoroughly ploughed for a crop o wheat, which was neatly got in, and in a suffi cient quantity in the month of September In the 41h year, reaped as fine a crop of whea as Dutchess county bad ever produced, whicl sold for two dollars a bushel. Lawton paii the purchase money before it ivas due, refun ded all his expenses, labor included, and htu ^20 in pocket. Two years after he refuse< ^50 an acre for the same land, and fairlj tohied the tables upon his sneering neighbors' The soil was a dark loam intermixed will coarse gravel. CA-JRA R' i( NEW ENGLAND FARMER. SGb NEW ENGLAND i^ARvIilil. SATURDAY, JUNE 14, I«i3. The Fariner"'} anil Gardeners Remembrancer. JUNE. Destrov Weeds. — The destruction of wefds is oue of the most important hr.inches of the art of husbandry. If this be neglected, or im- perfectly performed, from one third to one half the crop is usually lost. If weeds are allowed to grow, we loose a part of the advantage of manuring our land. The mixture of weeds in the soil prevents the crop from receivmg the beneficial influence of the air. Weeds among- grain greatly increase the trouble and risque of harvest ; for a crop, which is free from weeds, will need much less drying than one which is mixed with them. Indeed, it would require pages to make a complete recapitulation of the evils which arise from these '■'■green snakes.,'' as ihey are sometimes called by farmers, which embrace agriculture with folds almost as deadly as those with which the Anaconda or Boa Coii- Strictor incloses its prey. Although wheat, and other broad cast crops, we believe, are rarely, if ever, weeded in this country, there can be little doubt but that in many instances it would be good economy to pull out the weeds by hand in the same way that they are extracted from growing crops of garden vegetables. Sir John Sinclair says, " various experiments have been tried to as- certain the positive advantage derived from care- fully weeding one part of a field, and leaving another part undone ; among these, the follow- ing, made with peculiar accuracy, may be safe- ly relied on. " 1. Wheat. — Seven acres of light gravelly land were falloived, and sown broad cast ; one acre was measured off, and not a weed was pulled out of it ; the other six were carefully weeded. The un weeded acre produced IS bushels; the six weeded acres 135 bushels, or 221 per acre, which is 4| bushels, or l-4th more produce in favor of weeding. -, " 2. Barley. — .\ six acre field was sown with' barley in fine tilth, and well manured. The weedmg, owing to a great abundance of char- lock, cost 12 shillings per acre. The produce «f an unweeded acre wa.< only 13 bushels; of the weeded, 2G. Difference in favor of weed- ing, 15 bushels per acre, besides the land being fO much cleaner for succeeding crops. " 3. Oats. — Six acres sown with oats ; one acre ploughed but once and unmanured ; pro- duce, 17 bushels. Another sis acres ploughed three times, manured and -u'eeded, produce 37 bushels. This experiment shows that oats re- quire good management, and will pay for it as well as other crops. Ten bushels of the in- creased produce may be fairly attributed to the weeding ; and the other ten to the manure." We have not known wheat or other broad «ast crops weeded in the United States ; but perhaps the recital of the above experiments may, in some cases, induce individuals to make trials of this mode of freeing their fields from i vegetable robbers. At least all the rye, cockle, darnel, &c. should be pulled up, in wheat fieUs, before they produce their seeds. " In some countries, particularly in Scotland, the people make as much account of weeding their fields of grain as their gardens. This should by all means be performed before the time when the plants begin to send out their ears ; because, after thi*, they will be more in danger of being hurt by people's passing among them. Especi- ally the wheat or other grain ought not to be touched while it is in blossom."* Care should be taken not to carry the seeds of weeds into the fields which are intended for white crops. When fresh dung is made use of, it should be applied to land on which Indian corn, potatoes, or some other hoed crops are raised. You shouhl not suffer weeds, either in gardens, or on any part of the farm, (o go to seed. If you have not time to dig them up, you can at least mow them down with a scythe, and jou will thus, by preventing the production of the vegetable progeny, realize the truth of the wise saying, that " an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of remedy." Our readers have already been cautioned against sowing the seeds of weeds with any kind of grain. t To prevent this, a thorough cleaning of the seed should be accomplished by winnowing, sifting, washing, &c. But the seeds of weeds are often sowed, after they have been separated from grain by winnowing. This will be the case when the chaff and rubbish at the tail of the heap of winnowed grain is thrown upon a dung hill, which is to be removed and applied to the soil, before the seeds contained therein have had opportunity to vegetate and get destroyed. Weeding flax is considered in Europe, and by good husbandmen in this country, as neces- sary to secure a good crop. It should be care- fully weeded when the plants are only three or four inches high ; they are not then injured by the laborer going barefooted over them. It is not supposed to be injured by the clover and grass sown with it ; on the contrary the Flem- ish farmers think them beneficial, by protect- ing the tender roots from drought, and keeping the weeds under.| Land, however, which has lately been cleared from its original growth of wood, or lately broken up from sward, will, generally, produce broad cast crops, which re- quire no weeding. l.fDiAN Corn. — " When the plants are three or four inches high, run a furrow with a one horse plough in the intervals between the rows as near as can conveniently be done without injur- ing the plants, making two furrows in each, turned from the rows, and then the weeds kill- ed with the hand hoe, and a little fresh earth drawn about the plants." Such are the direc- tions of Dr. Deanc ; but Judge Peters, of Penn- sylvania, says, " Wherever the harro-w has been fairly tried, its advantages over the plough, in corn crops, have been decisively shewn." Per- haps the question whether the plough or har- row is to be preferred, like many others in ag- riculture, admits of no definite answer, but de- pends on the nature of the soil. If that is hard, stony and uneven, the plough will loosen more mould, and destroy more weeds than the har- row ; but if the field is level, mellow and dry, the harrow should, we think, be preferred, at least for the first time of hoeing. Judge Peters asserts that " Transplanting from a seed bed, sown early, broad cast, in or convenient to your cornfiefd, * See Deaoe'a N. E. Farmer. t See communicatioQ of O. Fiske, Esq. in our paper, N'o. 28, page 222. t See Mr. Po!neroj''6 Essay oa Flas Husbandry. or with supernumerary plants, from other hills, is far preferable to usin.g seed corn for supply! ing defective hills cut off by the grub, or other- wise vacant. Plants even "take and keep pace with those uninjured ; but renewals with seed corn seldom arrive at maturitv." A writer in the American Farmer, vol. ii, p. 35, informs that he does not set or transplant' his corn, as it never succeeded with him. " Salt is used for destroying grubs, worm.s, &c. and has been successful in banishing or kil- ling the corn-grub," as we learn by Judge Pe- ters, but we are not told what quantity should be applied to the hill, nor the time of its appli- cation. We have been told by a practical far- mer, that a small handful of salt, put into the hill at planting, preserved Indian corn from the wire worm and other insects. We should ap- prehend, however, that if salt is placed in con- tact with young plants it might injure or destroy them by its acrid qualities. " A handful of ashes on each hill will nourish the plants and have a tendency to prevent their being annoyed by worms. Some lay it on just before the first or second hoeing. It will have a better eSect in preventing worms, if laid on before the corn is up. But it is commonly de- signed to answer chiefly as a top dressing; and for this purpose it would answer better near the third hoeing ; for then the plants want the greatest degree of nourishment, as they begin to grow very rapidly. Two dressings with ashes, to answer the two purposes, would not be amiss."* " This practice of dressing the hills does best when applied at the first hoeing, and repeated again at the third hoeing; the first brings forward the stalk, and the last the corn."! "It is essential to have this plant started well ; because if it get stunted at the outset by coid rains, it seldom gets the better of this during its whole growth, particularly if the soil be not perfectly suitable to it. To prevent this, it is best to apply some stimulants to the plants at that time ; and the best for that purpose are bog dirt, marie (dug out of bog- swamps,) ashes and gypsum. The latter ought, however, to be preferred on all soils to which it is suitable, because it is cheap and easily ap- plied." Plaster, ashes, &c. are usually applied immediately after weeding, and left on the top of the ground. But it is recommended by a writer in the American Farmer, vol. i, p. 5, in case of dry weather to cover the plaster, " as long droughts and hot sun are injurious to its stimulating powers." PuMPKi.NS. — If you have any spare land of a suitable quality you may perhaps as well raise a crop of pumpkins. They will grow on any kind of soil which is proper for hoed crops, but the land cannot easily be made too rich for them. The Farmers' Assistant thinks they will grow better when planted by themselves, than when raised with Indian corn. Dr. Deane like- wise expresses the same opinion. It is directed that hills for pumpkins be placed about seven feet apart, and only one plant should finally be suffered to stand in a hill. The crop is much less expensive to raise than Indian corn, and we are told that an acre properly cultivated will produce as much as ten tons, worth at least 16 cents a hundred for feeding and fatting cat- tle. Instead of a summer fallowing for wheats a farmer might derive a handsome profit by * Ueane'B N. E. Fanner. t Fannere' Manual. 366 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. planting this vegetable. " The pumpkin crop would require two ploughings and two hoeings while growing, and another good ploughing would then be rec|uisite to fit the ground tor the reception of the wheat. The intervention, therefore, of the crop of pumpkins would re- quire tlie two ploughing?, which are requisite for it while growing, more than is commonly given to land when .summer fallowed in the usu.il way. Whether the crop could be ripen- ed and the ground cleared in season in autumn for sowing winter wheat, we cannot say, but believe it generally might. Give the hills plen- ty of seed to guard against accidents, insects, &c. and pull up the supernumerary plants in due season." iNDtAN CoR.v FOR FoDDER. — " The husband- mcn of America would do well to try the me- thod of cultivating Indian corn, as practised in Italy, France and .Spain, where it is sown very thick in broad cast, for producing fodder, and for stall feeding or soiling.''''* " Every farmer knows how eagerly cattle devour the entire plant of Indian corn, in its green state ; and land in good condition will produce good crops of it. Some years ago, just when the ears were in the milk, 1 cut close to the ground the plants grow- ing on a measured space, equal, as I judged, to the average product of the whole piece, and found that at the same rate, an acre would yield twelve tons of green fodder; probably a richer and more nourishing food than any ether known to the husbandman. And this quantity was the growth of less than four months." " It has ap- peared to me that the sort called sacet corn, (having a white shrivelled grain when ripe) yields stalks of richer juice than the common yellow corn. It is also more disposed to multi- ply suckers— an additional recommendation of it, when planted to be eaten in a green state, for horses and cattle, and especially for milch cows ; and its time for planting may be so regu- lated as to furnish a supply of food just when the common pastures usually fail. I am inclin- ed to doubt whether any other green food will afford butter ot equal excellence."! The Hon. Josiah Quincy has likewise soiled cattle from Indian corn, sown broad cast, with great suc- cess, obtaining, if we recollect rightly, two crops in a season. We cannot say bow much seed should be sowed broad cast to an acre. Perhaps between two and three bushels would be sufficient. The author of a " Treatise on Agriculture," published in the Albany Argus, says, that '•'corn is sometimes cultivated ~for fodder only, in which case it is generally sown, broad cast, at the rate of ten bushels to the acre, and cut green. In the volcanic soils of Italy, it sometimes produces four green crops in a year." The Massachusetts Agricultural Repository, vol. vi, p. 380, says, " We think the writer must have been mistaken in the quantity of corn sowed broad cast on an acre. We are persuad- ed that two or three bushels would be ample ; better than a larger quantity." When great authorities difl'et on agricultural points, experi- ments must decide. We are inclined to the opinion of the author of the Treatise. If fod- der alone is the object in sowing Indian corn, we should suppose that it can hardly be sown too thick. The stalks will be smaller, but there * IJordley'f Flusbandry. 1 Hon. T. ficUerin-'s .Address to the Essex Agricul- t»ira' Society. will be more of them, and they will be finer and more easily cured or made into a sort of hay, and we believe would furnish more Ibod for cattle when cut and given green. But this is merely conjecture, as we have never known experiments relating to the subject, though we wish they might be instituted. We have learn- ed, however, from inquiry, that some tarmers have been in the habit of sowing Indian corn broad cast, mixed with cabbage seeds and oats; and making use of them altogether for soiling, or giving them green to cattle. It will be prop- er if any of these seeds, or millet, or any of the grasses are sown for the purpose of cutting them green, to harrow and roll the ground per- fectly smooth for mowing, as directed in Col. Pickering's remarks on the premiums offered by the Essex Agricultural Society.* *■■ See N. E. Farmer, paje 289. ^— WW— RECRUITING WORN OUT LANDS. In this day's paper, page 364, will be seen a detail of an important experiment by a Mr. Lawton, for recruiting a field which had become barren by neglect, or improper management. This experiment seems to have been conducted in a mode analogous to, but in some respects different from what is called turning iyi green crops for manure. The first and second crops of clover, including two years of the experi- ment, were not ploughed in, but left to rot on the ground. The third year produced a crop which was worth ploughing in. The two first crops were, properly speaking, smothering crops. We believe that almost any soil may be made productive by being protected from the rays of the sun, and at the same lime exposed to the action of the atmosphere. Every farmer knows that the earth under a wood shed, a dwelling house, or any other building, if the air has free access to it, soon becomes fertile without ma- nure, and even salt petre may be made of it, from nitrous particles, which it must have im- bibed exclusively from the atmosphere. It is well worth consideration whether clover, peas, millet, buck wheat, white lupin, or any other crop intended to recruit an exhausted soil, may not as well or better, in many instances, be suf- fered to rot on the ground, as be turned in. At least it cannot be doubted but more benefit would be derived to a sandy soil from the shade afforded by a small crop, than from the manure such crop might afford by ploughing it in. But if the object of the farmer in sowing his land is either to shade it, manure it, or to cut the crop for soiling, or giving green to cattle, he can hardly be too liberal of the seed applied. DAVIS' PLOUGH. An experiment was made on Saturday last, in the presence of many citizens, on one of the vacant sciuares of this city, to test the value of the Stibstratum Plough, of which Gideon Davis is the Inventor and Proprietor. From so limit- ed an experiment, a conclusive opinion could not be formed ; but the impressions of those who understand the subject appeared to be de- cidedly favorable to the plough as an important implement for pulverizing the earth far beyond the ordinary depth of the plough, and as parti- cularly adapted to put ground in the best condi- tion lor Indian corn and all root crops. This plouf'h stirs the ground to the depth of from ten to eighteen inches--the average depth of its running being probably over twelve inches. Some idea of the value of the Invention may be gathered from this fact. — J\'at. Intelligencer. HEAD ACHES AND APOPLEXY. From a Medical work entitled ' Farmer on Head Aches.' The alarming increase of apoplectic fits for several years past, has naturally given rise to the question. What do they proceed from ? Various opinions have been given by writers on the subject, but none appear to be satisfactory. IVow, from all the consideration I have given to the subject, and coupling it with many cor- roborative circumstances, I find no hesitation in coming to the conclusion, that the prevalency of apoplexy is owing, in a great measure, ta the introduction of the custom of wertring cra- vats. This observation will appear less extra- ordinary, when we call to mind the fact that this addition to our dress was not adopted until the 16th century, previous to which period the disorder in question was met with but as one to three compared to the present. In that day the neck was divested of every kind of covering, except a slight frill which contained no warmth, and instead of detracting from dignity, it added much to the majesty of the countenance. A mere shirt collar was worn on the neck by some people, but it did not operate in augmenting vascular action there. But I find another proof of the feasibility of my remarks, by the circumstance of females being less liable to apoplexy than the opposite sex, although the nature of their economy might be supposed to lead much oftener to the com- plaint. Now we find that their necks are not enveloped in padded ligatures, and consequently the proportion of sudden deaths amongst them is much less than in men. FOKEIGA. FROM FR^^ACE .4.VZ> SP.9I.X. Bordeaux and Cadiz papers to the 25th of April, have been received in New York and this city. By these we learn that the royalist Gen. Morales had been taken in an action at Carneja. The government of Spain had ollicially declared war against France, and had ordered out many public and private vessels against the commerce of the invading country. Tranquillity prevailed at Madrid, but the spirit and enthusiasm of the Spanish people had not abated. The French army was making a slow and cautious progress towards Mad- rid, and according to their own accounts preserve ex. celient discipline, but the Spanish say that they com. mit great excesses. The national troops have fought bravely in the Province of Bilboa, but retreated before the superior numbers of their opponents. The French have levied, according to their own statements, a con- tribution of -lOO suits of clothes on Bilboa. The Span iards say that the contribution was 8000 dollars. At Madrid preparations were making for giving the French such a reception as may make them repent of their temerity in undertaking to dragoon their neighbors into despotism. The guerille or partizan bands (A Spaniards have begun their operations with much vi°;or. The militia of Saragossa have volunteered their ser\ices during the war, and a band of Royalist troops, consisting of 2000, have been completely beatea at Santiague. Logiono. — The capture of this city is announced ia an olficial despatch from the French General, in whicbi i NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 36/ he says, " the enemy made an orderly retreat for near- ly a league, defending every position, but were at !a?t broken by the iutrcpidity of Col. Muller, %vho threw himself with his hussars into the midst of them, shout- ing ' long live the king,' &c. The result of this bril- liant affair is the capture of Gen. Don Julian Sanchez, 64 officers and soldiers, one standard, several lances, 200 or liOO muskets, k.c. and about 30 killed. In short, the Spaniards appear to be pursuing the policy by ■which Bonaparte was beaten, and which, if perseven d in, cannot fail to prove fatal to their assailants in this instance. ^— L.\TER STILL.— An arrival at N. York has brought London papers to the 28th of April. An official bulle- tin from the army of the Eastern Pyrennees, dated 18lh April, announces that the 5th division of the fourth corps had advanced to Janquera without meeting the enemy. A French paper estimates the whole force in- vading Spain at 81,000 -,—60,000 on the side of Bay- «nnc, and 21,000 under Moncey, at Perpignan. Of the former, more than 30,000 will be necessary for the investment of St. Sebastian and Pampeluna. .Sir Rob- ert Wilson, accompanied by a son of Lord Erskine, has left London for Falmouth, to embark for Vigo and join the Spanish army. Some of the French papers state that the Duke d'.\ngouleme offered the Governor of San Sebastian a bribe of 100,000 franks to surrender the fortress, which he accepted, and having obtained the cash, when the French troops advanced, fired upon them, and killed about 860. The money received was immediately sent to the Cortes. The prisoners taken at Logrono were about 150. Accounts from Portugal state that the insurgents are giving way on every side, and the constitutional forces would soon extirpate the rebellion. The French government is said to have taken great offence at the proceedings in the British Parliament and the neutral course of England. Every thing on the part of the Spaniards indicates determined but wary opposition ; and clouds and thick darkness are already resting on the prospects of the invaders. Two regiments of womeyi (says a Perpignan paper,) have been organized at Barcelona, for the service of the place, in case of siege. We hold in our hands an engraving of these soldiers — tliey are in a becoming dress, and armed with a lance. It may be recollected that in the former war a similar battalion was formed at Gironne, whose courage is much spoken of by Jflar- sball St. Cyr, in his work on Catalonia. Spanish Main. — The Columbian forces under Mon- tilla have captured the fortress of San Carlos and city of Maracaibo. A division of Morales' army, 6000 strong, under Col. Gomez, had been defeated by the Colombian troops, under Gen. Gonsalvez, and the Spanish Governor of Core and many others killed. Bolivar was at Guayquil in March, and had withdrawn the succors furnished by Colombia for Peru, not being wanted, and had changed the destination of the force, S,000 men, for Santa Martha, and if necessary for Ma- racaibo. The last accounts from La Vera Cruz state that the Ez-Kmperor Iturbide, with liis family, was about em- barking for Leghorn, in a British vessel, and that the ■Mexican Government had agreed to allow him 25,000 dollars per annum, during life. The New (London) Monthly Magazine for April, says, ^* We have long and anxiously looked towards the press of America for a sound and sincere history of man in his savage state. Europe in fact has a right to look to America for such a history." pfcted. I'his is an uncommonly distressing season in . very point of view — mercantile business is at a stand — (he price of cotton low, and without demand — cash scarcer than ever before known in this part of the world — incessant rains for a certain length of time lat- terly, have nearly destroyed the new planted crops, and the unusual swelling of the river thrcatins to blast all hopes which might have been entertained of reme- dying the evil." At New Orleans, likewise, great ap- prehensions were entertained for the safety of the em- bankments. On the 11th ult. the river ran ovtr into Levee street, and it was feared that a general inunda- tion would soon take place. The Secretary of the Commissioners under the Flori- da treaty, has given notice that he will answer the in- quiries of any claimant with regard to his iudividaal chtim, whenever addressed by letter. The New York American states, as a report, that Return .L Meigs has been removed from the situation of Postmaster General, and Mr. M'Lcod, of Ohio, for- merly in Congress, appointed in his stead. The editors say they have reason to think the report well founded ; but the National Intelligencer is silent on the subject. A hail storm was experienced at Lynn and Saugus on Thursday afternoon of last week, and several panes of glass were broken. At Lynnfield, several barns were blown down, fences destroyed, and trees torn up by the roots. A writer in the Richmond Compiler offers an extract from the European Magazine of 1811, giving a state- ment of the number of men employed by Napoleon to subjugate Spain. The grand total was five hundred and fourteen thousand, seven hundred and ninety-six. These men were hearty in the cause, and were com- manded by able generals. They fought for four years, and were finally unsuccessful. What can now be ex- pected from 100,000 men, going reluctantly to battle, and led on by incompetent officers ? An Albany paper of June 4, says — Notwithstanding the large quantity of flour which is daily brought to this market, the price of wheat has been looking up for some time past, and is now from lis. to lis. and 3d. per bushel, and we should not be surprised to see the iirsl quality bringing lis. 6d. or 12s. Winter grain, we are told, in general, looks well, and promises an abundant harvest, Oranges have been introduced into the Penitentiary, MiUbank, (Eng.) as a substitute in the regimen of the prisoners, and the most salutary effects have bcea ex perienced from their use. The prisoners are allowed daily, a quarter of a pound of meat and three oranges in addition to the former allowance of soup. DOMESTIC. Flood of the Mississipiji. — Much damage has been done, and much more is apprehended, from the extra- ordinary height of water in the Mississippi and its trib- utary streams. The Louisiana Gazette of the 13th ult. speaks of a freshet in the river Pascagoula, and the streams entering therein, which carried away all the mills in that part of the country, besides doing other damage. An article dated Baton Rouge, May lOth, declares that " the state of the Mississippi at this time becomes really alarming ; it rises from an inch to an inch and an half every twenty-four hours, and by the latest accounts, which are far from being satisfactory, we are iafortned tint the Missouri freshet is dailv ex- MASSACHUSETTS LEGISL.1TURE. But little business of great general interest has been completed in either House, except what related to the usual routine of organizing the government, the details of which we have already published. The following is a list of the bills which have passed their final stages, so far as they have yet fallen within our notice. To incorporate the Canal Manufacturing Co. — addi- tional, for incorporating the Charlestown Bleachery — to authorize the Trustees of the Baptist Education Fund to divide the same — to incorporate the Trustees of the Ministerial Fund of the Baptist Society in Ha- verhill— the Leicester Manufacturing Co. — the Trus- tees of the Ministerial Fund of the first Congregational Society in Wendell — in addition to an act entitled an act to incorporate the Proprietors of the Museum Hall in the town of Boston — in addition to an act entitled an act to incorporate the Union Marine Insurance Co. and the several acts in addition thereto — to incorporate the Elliot Manufacturing Co. — in addition to an act entitled an act to incorporate the Linen and Duck Manufacturing Co. — to cede to the United States the jurisdiction of a site for a Light House on Monamoy Point — in addition to an act entitled an act to incorpo- rate the President, Directors & Co. of the Exchange Bank — in addition to an act entitled an act to provide for the discharge of Officers in the Militia. A resolve passed authorising the Treasurer to bor- row $50,000. AGRICULTURAL E.STABLISHMENT, NO. 20, MERCHANTS' HOW, (^.4/ the East End nf Ihc Old Murkcl.J^ FOR sale as above, a variety of the most approved single and double mould board Ploughs, C. Howard's improved cast iron mould board, with wrought Shear and Coulter, Cast iron do. do. do. J. Seaver & Co's. do. do. Bigtlow's wrought do. do. Warren's much approved common Plough?, Sinclair's side hill do. do. do. Howard's much improved Cultivator, an implement highly esteemed for its utility in drill cultivation, Bennct's Broad Cast, Seed Sowing Machines, for large and small seeds, Eastman's improved Straw Cutter, Safford's new invented Straw Cutter, much improved, Common hand Straw Cutters, An English Vegetable Cutter, Stevens' patent steel spring Hay and Manure Forks, Steel spring Potatoe Hoes, English cast steel broad Hoes, Common and steel do. do. A great variety of Garden and other Agricultural Implements. June 7. PRICES OF COUNTRY PRODUCE, &C. [Revised and corrected every Friday.] FROM TO . D. C. D. C. ASHES, pot, 1st qual. . . . ton. 145 00 150 00 pearl do 155 00 157 00 BEANS, white, . . . i . bush 1 00 1 08 BEEF, mess, 200 cwt. . . . bbl. 9 50 9 75 cargo. No 1, . , . . 8 50 8 75 " No2, . . . . 7 00 7 25 BUTTER, inspect. 1st qual. . lb. 12 13 " 2d qual. . 10 11 . small kegs, family, 14 15 cheese; new milk .... 7 8 FLAX . . . 8 9 FLAX 8EBO- .- . .- . . . busli 85 90 FLOUR, Baltimore, superfine, bbl. 7 75 7 87 Genessee .... 7 62 7 87 Rye, best .... 4 75 5 00 GRAIN, Rye bush 72 75 Corn ..... 63 65 Barley 68 70 Oats 40 42 HOGS' LARD, 1st sort . . lb. 10 HOPS, No 1, 10 12 LIME cask 1 25 1 50 OIL, Linseed, American . . sal. 65 00 PLAISTER PARIS .... ton. 3 00 3 25 PORK, Navy Mess .... bbl. 12 00 12 50 Bone Middlings . . . 14 00 14 50 Cargo, No 1, ... 12 00 12 50 Cargo, No 2, ... 11 00 11 50 SEEDS, Herd's Grass . . • bush 2 00 2 25 Clover lb. 8 9 WOOL, Merino, full blood,washed 55 65 do do unwashed 48 50 do 3-4 washed 50 55 do 1-2 do 40 45 Native .... do 38 40 Pulled, Lamb's, 1st sort 55 60 do Spinning, 1st sort 50 55 PROVISION MARKET. BEEF, best pieces .... lb. 8 9 PORK, fresh 7 8 VE\L, «1 8 LAMB, per quarter .... 37 50 POULTRY, 10 12 BUTTER, keg & tub ... 13 U Intnp, best . . . 16 18 EGGS, doz. 12, 13 MEAL, Rye, bush 75 80 Indian, 75 POTATOES 40 46 CIDER, liquor bbl. 1 50 2 25 HAY, best, ton. 20 00 22 00 368 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. AN ODE, Wrilttn foT tin Celebmlion of tht Second Centennial Anniversary of the Settlement of A'. H. Two Hundred Years are number'd now, Since with the op'ning year The white man breathM his ardent vow, And ralsM his altar here ; From Albion's haughty sea-girt land, '^ Laconia's'* Ancients come, A patient, firm, and dauntless band, To seek a peaceful home. And why should thus our Fathers spurn Their riative earth and sky ? With visions bold their fancies burn ; Their hopes and hearts beat high ; For mid these northern wilds they see Perrennial nature bloom, And rivers roll in majesty, To fertilize their home : And mighty lakes are epreading there, Where Eden islands show. And " chryslal hills" are swelling fair. Where mines of treasure glow ; Oh, at those visions never smile, — They gilded well the gloom ; They soften'J oft the rugged toil That raib'd our happy home. Nor think such dreams were fables vain, The ynoral we may find ; Though winter here in rigor reign, No frost can blight the Mind. It glows as pure, it soars as light As ocean's wintry foam ; It is the Freeman's Chrystal bright— The Gem that gilds his home. Then polish high the living Mind .' 'Twas Athens' noblest praise — Be Learning here with Labor join'd, Our laurels with our lays ; And God, who saw with tender care Our Pilgrim Fathers roam, Will bless those sous and daughters fair, That grace and guard their home. HAIL THE DAY. Tpne — Scots wha hue. [Sung after dinner at the Centennial Celebration.] Hail the day our gallant sires, On these rocks first lit their fires. Where now stand our fanes and spires, On this jubilee — Sires, who from old England bore Freedom's standard to our shore, May your deeds for ever more Live in memory. While New Hampshire's healthful gales. Ocean whiten'd with her sails, While our verdant hills and vales Cheer us gratefully ; We'll revere the patriot band. Men, who on this desert str.and, Wav'd their banner o'er our land — Flag of liberty. On the spot where pilgrims fled, Where by savage foes they bled, To the spirits of the dead. This our oath shall be ; V>y the mounds their ashes made, By the altars where they pray'd. By our own right ami and blade, Still we will be free. From a Fayettevillc (N. C.) paper of May 26. HYSON TEA. The fact has been demonstrated, that the- ■^naine Hyson Tea may be successfullj' culti- ■"'is State. The experiment has been "Suit has been the most satisfac- e wife of Mr. J. Newl.nnti, of , found a seed much resembling that of buckwheat, in the bottom of a box of tea, which her husband had purchaspd in this town. She planted the seed in her garden, and the produce was a plentiful crop. She gave some of the seed to Mrs. Farrington, the lad}' of Mr. John Farrington, of Chatham coun- ty, who also planted the seed ; and the writer of this article obtained his information from Mrs. Farrington, and also obtained from her some of the tea and seed. He planted the seed in his garden in this town, where it can be seen by those who are curious to witness the pro- ducts of the East Indies transferred to this wes- tern hemisphere. The writer of this article has distributed, of the small portion of the saf^d obtained by him, to many of his friends ij| this town and its vicinity. A treatise on the mode of curing this valuable plant is quite desirable. From Silliman's Journal. SALEM MANUFACTURE OF ALUM. We contemplate with particular satisfaction every advance made in our domestic arts and manufactures, and regard every new step of this kind as an addition to our national resources. Excepting the natural alum of the caverns in Tennessee, and o( some other regions of the West and South, and that occasionally found in our schistose rocks, and used in these cases more or less for domestic dyeing, and other purposes, we were not aware that the United States possessed any resource for this article independent of the foreign markets. Some time since we were informed that a manufactory was established at Salem in Massa- chusetts, and the proprietors have recently put us in possession of specimens, which prove that the effort has been completely successful. Among the crystals of alum, are some of great size, and exquisite beauty and transpar- ency, exhibiting to the naked eye, in a very striking manner, the successive layers of super- position, and the progressive increments and decrements. A part of an octaedron lies before us, complete, except on the side where it ad- hered to the mass. It measures nearly five inches by four, and has the most perfect finish on its faces and solid edges and angles, which are in every part replaced by truncations. — Some crystals of rather smaller size are quite or nearly perfect. AVe are aware that fine crystals are not rare in manufactories, but we have not seen these equalled even by the simi- lar productions of the celebrated establishment near Glasgow. There can be no question from the appearance of these crystals, as well as from that of the amorphous masses, of the ex- treme purity of these materials. Perhaps they are even purer for this reason, that the alum is not manufactured (as we understand) from the usual source, namely, the decomposed alum slates, but from the direct synthetical union of sul|)liur)c .acid with the argillaceous earth. The sulphate of copper (blue vitriol) made at this establishment, is equally perfect in its kind, presenting crystals of extreme finish and beauty. From the American Farmer. CURE FOR THE GRAVEL. Mr.. SKl^^•^;n — When we take a daily paper in hand, it is generally for the purpose of dis- cussing the politics of the day, or noting the price of stocks: both pass away as the Ephem- Vo t.R era. But when in company with the Americwn Farmer, " we read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest" its valuable communications. I often copy receipts from it, and am inclined to mea- sure •• other people's corn by my own bushel," and liiink the following receipt may be of as much service to suffering humanity, as one for making the Hamburgh pickle. Should you be of the same way of thinking, it vvill find a place in your valuable paper. Havmg been much troubled with the gravel, 1 was advised by a Mr. Zane, of this city, to try a decoction of wild carrot, Daucus Carota. I made a tea from the stalks and seed, with a few li water melon seed, and drank about a quart a day ; it is as palatable as China tea, when sweetened with honey or sugar. In less thaa a month from my first using it, 1 passed a stone 2-8ths of an inch long and 3-8lhs circumference, of an egg-like form. 1 have ever since, when troubled with any pain in the region of the kidneys, taken a strong tea of it for my commoa drink, through the day, and always found relief. 1 take it with my children for breakfast, once a week- -they make no objection to the taste. This is a remedy that is to be found by every farmer on his own lands ; and cannot well be mistaken, from its great resemblance to the culinary carrot seed and flower. Mr. Casej^ Seedsman, called to my recollection, a medicine used by my father, composed of beards of leeks, birch h igs, pennyroyal and wild carrot — ad libitum — but a compound is not so easily pro- cured as a simple, which alone, often causes the receipt to be passed over. Yours respectfully, WASHINGTON SPENCER. May 18th, 1823. h It Sir cm a lae T ki Iki l^ord J^orth. — While this gentleman was en- gaged in discussing one of the most serious points of a question under examination, a dog which had concealed himself under the table of the House of Commons, made his escape, and ran directly across the floor, setting up at the same time a violent howl. It occasioned a burst of laughter, and might have disconcerted an or- dinary man. But he who knew how to convert the most awkward occurrences to purposes of advantage, having waited till the roar had sub- sided, and preserving all his gravity, said to thespeaker, '■'• Sir, I have been interrupted by a new member, not acquainted with the forms of the house. I therefore yielded to him ; but as he has concluded his argument I shall re- sume mine." Iioi A dandy, remarking one summer da}', that the weather was so excessively hot, that when he put bis head into a basin of water, it fairly boiled, received for reply, " Then, sir, you had calf heads'' soup at very little expense." TERMS OF THE FARMER. 0^5= Published every Saturday, at Three Dollars per annum, payable at the end of the year — but those who pay within si.iiy days from the time of subscribing will be entitled to a deduction of Fifty Cents. (^^ No paper will be discontinued (unless at the discretion of the Publisher) until arrearages are paid. O;^- Complete files from the commencement of the paper in August can be furnished. 0:^ Agents who procure seven subscribers, and be- come responsible for the payment, will be entitled to a opy gratis, and in the same proportion for a larger number. ]NEW ENGLAND FARMER. PUBLISHED BY THOMAS W. SHEPARD, ROGERS' BUILIJINGS, \' OL. I. BOSTON, SATURDAY, JUNE 21, 1823 CONGRESS STREET, (EOURTH DOOR 1 ROM STATE STRE1:T.) No. FACTS AND OBSERVATIONS RELATING TO AGRICULTURE & DOMESTIC ECONOMY. BY THE KDITOR. tbod of making the lloor? are, that when the brick work is well executed and made pe'-fcctiy level, vermin cannot bo concealed underneath them, nor damp air be communicated ; besides, floors formed in lliis way are found to wear better than those placed simply on sleepers." The author of " Letters of Agricola," after condemning the mode in which barn floors have usually been constructed, in Nova Scotia, BARNS AND BARN FLOORS. We have given, page 3G1, some remarks on .hi subject; but the following additional obser- rations may perhaps be useful. In constructing the floors of barns, care should (which is probably similar to our usual method) be taken that they be made firm, dry, and solid, ■ gives the following directions for obviating its jflbrding no place o( refuge for reptiles, small i evils : " After tearing up the planlis, and build- inimals, &,c. To effect this purpose, it is re- jng the foundation round and round, close to the ommcnded that the surface of the ground un-jon, a fami- ly, and a nation, it becomes striking and impor- tant. A cent for a meal, amounts to three cents a day. One person, at three cents a day. dols. saves in the year 1 1 One family of five persons 55 A nation of five millions of people 55,000,000 The cent thus saved by the good house-wife, on every plenlijal meal of the Khotesoiuest food, ivould be sullicient for maintaining the most desperate war by the freemen of America, in defence of their country, against the wiles and the violences of the great enlightened world ! Bordkifs Husbandry. >0R THE NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 1 have observed in your paper. No. 43, a piece on the science of Liinaisin, signed Daniel Staples, and after a long life of observation would remark that I have never had just cause lo accuse the moon of interfering willi my farm- ing business, or officiously disclosing my secrets, and that the science of the moon's iiitluence is beyond my feeble comprehension. Ijiit if the moon has such a powerful influence, 1 would advise my fellow citizens to be cautious how they give her just cause of offence, lest she should retaliate, as her place o( residence is not within our civil or military jurisdiction. I believe that the sap or moisture in wood, fermenting and corroding, occasions its rotting ; therefore the season ^ hen the least of that is in the pores of the wood is the right time to fell it to render the »vood most durable, and that opinion is agreeable to what 1 have formerly nrittcn. Neither do 1 believe fro® all my ob- servations that the moon has ever interfered with her inlluence in my orchard, or my time lor grafting ; yet from the numerous accounts that 1 have had from people of credit, I have i;harity to believe that good bearing apjde trees have been raised by sticking limbs in the ground. To learn the time or mode thereof, 1 have tried abundance of experiments, and all in vain. If the limbs that we prune olV our best kind of apple trees could by any ready process be made to grow and llourish equal to young trees, it would be the desideratum of every orchardisl ; and it is most earnestly desired that any gentle- man, having a knowledge of a succe.ssful mode of tills kind, may publish it for the good of the public. SAMUEL PRESTON. iitockpurt., i'u. June 5, XV.'i'i. Vrota the second volume of the Memoirs of the Board of Agriculture of the State of New York. ON THE APPLICATION OF STA131>K MANURES. [By J. BoEL, of .\lbany.] The experiments of .\rlhur Young, and ol' other [)ractical and scientific I'aimers, have de- monstrated, that animal and vegetable manures, which undergo a complete process of fermenta- tion in the cattle yards, or upon the surface of the ground, lose from 30 to 60 per cent, of their fertilizing properties ; and if properly spread, and buried under the soil, that this loss is pre- vented— and that a decomposition does immedi- ately take place, even of dry straw, sufficient to answer valuable purposes to the first crop. Mr. Young, whose correctness and practical knowl- edge will not be questioned by any one who knows his biography or his usefulness, measur- ed five equal pieces of ground: upon the first piece he put nothing ; on the second he buried dry straw, chopped tine ; on the third, straw steeped three hours in fresh urine ; ou the fourth, straw steeped fifteen hours ; and on the fifth, straw steeped throe days in like manner. The wholt; was sowed with barley. The pro- duce of each piece, in grain, and in weight of grain and straw, was as follows : No. Graiu. \\ eight of grain 4; straw L 9 - 48 2, 39 - 100 50 . 120 U 63 - 130 5, 126 - 300 This experiment demonstrates two important facts. 1st, that even dry straw, buried under the soil, decomposes, and greatly improves the first crop. 2d, that the urine of animals, which is ordinarily lost to our farmers, is the most fertilizing product of the stable and yard. We have a strong corroboration of the latter in the history of Flemish husliandry. RadclifT, in his report of the agriculture of Flanders, speaks of urine as constituting the most valuable part of the manure used in those highly cultivated pro- vinces. He cites an instance, where the urine of 44 cattle, by the adventitious aid of rape- cake, and the vidanges from the privies, ma- nured in the best manner twenty-one English acres per annum. The urine is collected in large cisterns under ground, into which drains , lead from the stables, where the cattle are kept winter and summer. Although 1 do not expect to see this practice of the Flemings imitated by our farmers, yet I hope the narrative of the preceding fact will not be lost upon them. It shows the importance of conslrucllig concave yards for our cattle, which will retain the urine and moisture, until it is absorbed by the straw, husks, stalks, and other vegetable litter of the yard. It has become a pretty well settleiT' principle among good farmers, that we should ne''l'er de- lay applying manure, because it is unfermented or unrotted; but, on the contrary, (hat they are the most profitably applied before fermentation commences, or while it is in an incipient state. The main object of this essay remains to be con- sidered. To what crops shall we apply them 1 The ex(>ericnce of almost every farmer will testify, that, except on very poor soils, they ought not to be applied, in any considerable quantity, to wheat, rye, barley, or any of the small grains. They often cause, in these, a too luxurious growth, and a greater product of straw than of grain. The straw is tender, is subject to the rust and the mildew, and the grain liable to blast — ^besides, the crop is apt to lodge and spoil, in consequence. Another serious injury is, the propagation of weeds and grasses, the seeds of which are carried out in the manure, and which cannot be extirpated in the growing crop. To apply manures upon the surface of grass lands, unless of a mineral kind, or in the form of a liquid, or impalpable powder, is throw- ing away one half of their value. And peas and flax do not do well under their first operation. Arthur Young's rule, and it is a good one, is, always to apply your mmure to hoeing crops. These are Indian '.uiii, potatoes, beans, and the whole family of vegetables. bear, and they want, all the gasses which ar« evolved in the first process of fermentation The gasses open the texture of the soil, ; render it pervious to heat, air, and light, antiji impart food to the young plants ; and the hoeing process exterminates all useless plants, and ren, [ij dei> the ground clean and loose. When appliec to the maize crop, the manure should be spreat before the last ploughing. The roots of this ,, grain are numerous, extend to a great length and elongate most where there is nutriment anc y\\ tilth to invite. Placed in the hill, the manurt ,, gives a temporary impulse to the growth of the iJj plant, and fails in its benefits when most wanted to the maturing seed. It answers also best wber Jji spread, for the succeeding crop, which is al- [t, ways some small grain. These reasons all hold ,i good in regard to spreading manure for the bean crop, whether that is cultivated in hills, drills or the broadcast method. For potatoes, whose roots do not extend far, the manure is most ser viceable, when a|)plied to the hills, or dri,lls. — For ruta baga, mangel wnrtzel, cabbage or tur- nips, its benefits are multiplied when it is placed under the ridges upon which these crops arc planted. It renders the recumbent soil light and friable, attracts moisture, and yields at abundance of food where it is alone wanted foi the growing crop. Either of these crops, if manured, leave the ground in good tilth, and free from weeds, anc may be followed with advantage by wheat, rye. barley or oats, according to the quality of the soil. The manure, applied in the spring, give; most of the benefits to the small grain crop which it would have done, had it been left tc ferment in the yard ; and then applied to thai in ;he first instance. e lit ijf ,lic (If lill III It ite ',' From the Mass. Agricultural Journal, for Jraie 1823. THE CAROLINA POTATO, OR SWEET POTATO. This plant is not a potato, though there is s vulgar opinion, that the common potato trans- planted to southern regions becomes sweet, and that the sweet potato on being carried to nor- thern climes degenerates into the common po- tato. The common potato is what the botanists have named a Solanum. It is not a running plant. Its native country is probably the high lands of South America — a cold region. It de- lights in cold seasons, and a moist soil, and it is a fact, that it is drier and more mealy, when rais- I-'' ed in such soils, than in dry ones. The best f* potatoes known are raised in the wet, flat and almost overflown grounds of Lancashire in Eng- land ; and in Ireland, so famous for its moisture and verdure, as to have received the appella- J'^ tion of the Emerald Isle. It flourishes admira- bly in the fogs of Nova Scotia and the lower parts of the state of Maine. The sweet potato has no title to be called the Carolina potato. — It is an exotic, or foreign plant with them. It is a native of tropical regions ; has been gradual- ly introduced northerly, like the Lima or Saba, «' commonly pronounced, Civet bean. The sweet fi potato is not a solanum, but a convolvulus ; has all the habits of the tribe of the convolvulus; it f' is a running or creeping plant. It never flow- ers in our country. It is very hardy — is capa- ble of bearing more frost than the common po- tato, but in wet seasons it is watery and less fi sweet. It may prove my great zeal, and some- what theoretical turn, to recommend again the These can culture of this vegetable in Massachusetts, bat NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 371 our jears experience gives me some right to peak of it praclicalhj. I recommend its culture on the following rounds. First. It will grow and succeed here under •rdinary culture. Secondly. It is very prolific, making as good etiirns as the common potato. Thirdly. It is preferred by man, bearing jsuilly a price three times as great with us as he common potato. Fourthly. It is preferred by all animals of vhatever description. Cows and pi;.'S eat it ^reelil}', and even dunghill fowls will attack mil consume it in a raw state. It will produce about 300 bushels to the acre, have never failed to raise it with success. — The only impediment to ils culture is the diffi- ;ulty of preserving the small tul.es or roots; lut as soon as it is known that there will be a lemand for them, our market will be regularly upplied from New Jersey, where it has been ong naturalized. It can be as easily raised as abbages. This 1 undertake to affirm. J. LOWELL. I would not be supposed to recommend this rticie except for the culture of the southern md eastern parts of the State, nor even there, jxcept as a cheap luxury. From the same Publication. ■ieccipt fnr destroying Caterpillars, used by the so- ciety (if christians called Shakers, at Canterbury, J^ew- Hampshire. " Take equal parts of turpentine, and train lil ; apply them by means of a swab (ixed on a ■ole, commence the operation in the spring, we suppose on the first appearance of nests^) fhen those devouring insects begin to appear. nd repeat the operation once a week, till the tf-ees ire in blow, and very few will escape with their ives." Signed F. \V. the head of the Family. We must express our admiration of this re- :eipt, not because of its novelty, for either of he ingredients would be quite sufficient tc kill he insects, as will common soap suds from eve- ■y Monday's wash most thoroughly, without train lil or spirits of turpentine ; but we admire it, as I specimen of the practice and industry of these jtizens. If our farmers would only follow that lart of the receipt, which requires a weekly at- ention, for three successive weeks, it is imma- erial whether they use spirits ef turpentine or loap suds, or the brush proposed by Col. Pick- iriug, the evil weuld be cured at any rate. — The great difficulty is the neglect to do any king, till after the Caterpillars have covered he trees with nests. Then the labours of the iluggard commence, and one tree, (let his re- :eipt be ever so perfect and powerful) will cost is much time and labour as ten trees would aave required three weeks tooner. If our far- tners would only adopt that portion of the re- :eipt, which requires a weekly attack on this nemy, the evil would soon cease, and in ten h its leaves twice a year in an annual recurrence, becomes exhausted, vinhealtby, and is often totally destroyed. Many preventatives to the ravages of the canker worm have been practised. The use of tar is most frequent and efi'ectual ; but as it in- jures the tree by its heating and binding nature, it would be very desirable for the fertility and vigor of the orchard, if some more easy and less injurious mode could be suggested. As to the caterpillar, whenever the tree is bare of leaves, and the eggs can be discovered and de- stroyed, which is practicable upon low and small trees, it is most effectual. A flapper is used by some, dipped in fish oil and applied to the nests, but the removal of them by hand, though slow, has, when the caterpillar is in the nest, been of necessity the prevailing practice. It is, to be sure, slow, and it is to be wished a better mode might be suggested.* The injury done by the worm which perforates and bores its way into the centre of young apple trees, threatens great injury, and one of our Trustees (Mr. Prince) has practised a mode of destroying it in the tree, by the insertion of a wire, as de- scribed in the last number of this Repository. But it is to be hoped that some application at the rim of the tree, near the root, may be found out, which may prove obnoxious to the insect which deposits the egg, and remove the appre- hension and alarm excited by this last enemy. The decay and other injuries mentioned, whe- ther natural or accidental, are such as cannot be guarded against in any considerable degree. The prudence and good management of our farmers will always effect something. If then, our orchards are on the decline from age and other circumstances, and we have been inatten- tive to bring forward a new growth, would it not be useful to turn our attention to this sub- ject. The value of the fruit should induce the culture of the tree. The situation for an orchard is well under- stood by our farmers. It flourishes best in a moist and strong stony soil, where it is not ex- posed to the wind. It cannot be attempted with success to bring forward an orchard in an old field, a green sward, or an exposed state, to be rubbed against by cattle. It is, however, more easy than is generally supposed, to overcome many natural disadvan- tages, and an orchard may be brought forward, and made productive in a few years, in a situa- tion (when wished) not so favorable. To shew this, two cases will be mentioned which have been attended with good success. In the one, a low piece of strong stony land was taken. As it was rather flat, it was plough- ed in strips, or dug in spaces about four feet square. As it was necessary to plough a furrow between each row, the mode of ploughing in strips was found the best, as by turning the fur- row towards the tree, the land was better drain- ed. Besides raising the ground a little from the surrounding soil, half a buckload of loom was added to raise the ground on which the tree was set. After this was done, the strips or squares, as the case might be, were appropri- ated to the culture of potatoes and garden veg- etables. In a few places only, the trees failed from the insufficiency of the drain. But by opening the drain and raising the ground, by half a buckload of loom, I found on setting out * The brush recommended by Col. Pickering in a commuuicution published in our paper, page 308, is perhaps as eligible and effectual a remedy against ca- terpillars as any which can be devised. — Ed. J^. E, F. i\ new tree, it flourished equally with the re»t. \t This orchard, now in eight years, is a most"^ valuable one, and most of the trees would o-ive ^ half a barrel of apples. From this and other circumstances which have fallen within my observation, it appears that low i land, if strong and well drained, will give a fine orchard, and probably sooner than any other. The next eflbrt was made under totally op posite circumstances. The object was, to have an orchard on a particular spot, where the soi was ihin and light upon a plain or flat. The holes were dug four feet over. The two uppei strata of black and yellow loam were placec aside the tree. After this, about ten inches it depth of the gravelly or poorer earth was taker out and carted off, and a horse-cart load of stone- upset into the hole ; upon these, a part of the upper stratum, or some dirt from the side o: the road was scattered .so as to fill up the inter- stices, since which the spots near the tree- have been cultivated, by planting four hills oi potatoes round each tree. The result has beer tolerably favorable with all But the trees hav- ing the stones placed at the roots have exceed ingly outstripped the other?.* From the result it is to be hoped, that in thi^ easy mode, disadvantages may be counteracted and the benefit of a deep soil had for the growli of an orchard near our dvvellings, or wherevci wished. .\s to the distance, 1 incline to less than is general. The best orchards I have seec hare been from 25 to 30 feet distance. Thi^ ' is the more important, as the land if fed at all should only be occasionally cropped a little h\ horses. Horned cattle, if freely admitted, wil soon disappoint all expectation. It will be per ceived in the difficulty of raising an orchard, at old and long improved soil is alluded to. In : new soil where the apple tree is introduced, ir clearing off the forest, in this part of the coun try, as well as Upper Canada, they set out ; tree which they often defend by upsettin" ! stump, so as to enclose it between roots, anc they have fruit very soon indeed. The profit of a fine orchard is familiar to ouj farmers. The fact is well known in this neigh borhood, that 160 barrels of apples were gath- ered a few years since, from less than two acres in the town of Dorchester. This, with the ci- der made from the refuse apples, and grass, gave about g300 per acre ; an income rare! exceeded in the improvement of soil. 1 havi been minute and particular, from a wish, that others better informed, may be induced to com- municate the advantages of their experience A fine orchard is not only a source of emolu- ment to a farmer, but one of the most beautiful and gratifying objects that can adorn a country I am yours, JOHN WELLES. Ill II ilid ffli *The dimensions of the Trees in the first experiraeni — a rich, low, black, stony soil, drained, were at thi expiration of eight years 15 to 17 inches circumfcrencr one foot from the ground. This may be considered (the tree being small when set out,) as a growth oi about two inches a year. The growth in the secoml experiment for six years, was, 1-2 to 14 inches in tlu holes, in which the stones were put one foot from thi ground. Where no stones were put, nine inches wa; the growth. It will thus he perceived, that the vege- tation vtas most powerful under circumstances by ua ture least favorable. If then, thus much can be done to counteract such disadvantages, it surely offers much encouragement to our efforts, and leads us to hope, that not only in this, but lu other objects, they may It beneficially extended- NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 373 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. SATURDAY, JUNE 21, 1823. The Farmei\^ and Gardener''s Remembrancer. JUNE. Hay-Making. — The bfist time to cut grass for lay is when the seeds are forming, but before hey become t'ully ripe. It should not be cut oo early before it has got its proper growth, ecause, in such case, it will shrink much in rying, and atTord a less solid and nutritious ubstance. Neither should it be sutlered to land too late, or till the seed be quite ripe, t will not only be harder to cut, but the ripe- less of the seed will cause it to shatter out vhile drying, which will be a loss of some con- equenco, as the seed is the richest and most lourishing part ; and the soil will be the more xhausted by nourishing the seed till if comes 0 maturity. The only advantage in mowing ate arises from the thickening of the grass roots ly scattering some ol' the seeds. But this is a lear mode of sowing grass seeds. If it is proposed to mow a piece of grass land wice in a season, the first crop should be cut sarlier than when it is mowed but once, not inly to give a longer time tor the growth of the 'Ccond crop, but to prevent the roots of the jrass from being too much exhausted in pro- lucing the first crop. AVhen it is proposed !o iave the seeds of red clover it is particularly mportant to cut the first crop early, so that the econd, from which the seeds are procured, may be the sooner ready for cutting in autumn. ench farmers, is to expose the hay as little as possible to the sun. It is carried in dry, but preserves its green color ; and hay of two or three years old appears so bright that you would scarcely conceive it to be cured. Yet they preserve it for years, and value it the more for its age. In Scotland " the best mana- gers disapprove of spreading out clover or rye grass hay. The more the Swarth is kept un- broken, the hay is the greener and more frag- rant."* When the grass is thin, and somewhat dried before it is mowed, it may be cut in the fore- noon, and raked in the afternoon of the same day, and by standing two or three days in the cock, will be sufficiently dry, without any fur- ther trouble. If ra;n fall in any considerable quantity, these cocks will require to be opened and exposed to the sun for a few hours. If a -mall quantity of rain has fallen, it may be enough to pull out some of the hay round the bottoms of the cocks, or only on that side which was to the windward when the rain fell, and lay It on the tops. If the cocks are so situated that the water has run much under their bottoms, they should be turned bottom upwards, and trimmed at least ; but it will most commonly be necessary to spread them abroad. When hay becomes too dry it should be carted either in the evening or morning, and when the air is damp. " A very ingenious gentleman of my acquaint- ance does not permit his grass to lie in swarth but for an hour or two after it is cut, or no longer than till its wetness be gone, and it just begins to appear withered. He then gathers it into very small parcels, which he calls grass cocks, not more than a good forkful! in each ; turns them over once in a while, about sun set is the best time ; doubles them as they grow drier ; and when the hay is almost dry enough, makes up the whole into large cocks. Grass which is thus dried will not waste at all by crumbling ; nor will much of its juices evapo- rate. I have seen his hay, the flavor of which excelled almost any other that I have met with. The color of it, indeed, was rather yellowish than green, but that is a matter of no conse- quence to the fanner, who docs not send his hay to inarkff. 1 cannot but think that in dry settled weather, this is an excelknit method of hay-making ; but in catching weather, perhaps a method which takes less time is to be prefer- red."* From the above Dr. Anderson's method is not much diti'ercnf. " Instead," says he, " ol allowing the hay to lie, as usual in most places, for some days in the swarth, alter it is cut, and afterwards putting it up into cocks, and spread- ing it out, and drying it in the sun, which tends greatly to bleach the hay, exhales its natural juices, and subjects it very much to the danger of getting rain, and thus runs a great risk of being good for little, I make it a general rule, if possible, never to cut my hay but when the grass is quite dry, and then make the gatherers follow close upon the cutters, putting it up im- mediately into small cocks, about three feet high each when newly put up, always giving each of them a slight kind of thatching, by drawing a few handfuls of hay from the bottom of the cock all around, and laying it lightly on the top, with one of the ends hanging down- wards. This is done with the utmost ease and expedition ; and when it is once in thai state, I consider my hay as in a great measure out of danger ; for unless a violent wind should arise immediately after the cocks are made, so as to overturn them, nothing else can hurt the hay ; as I have often experienced that no rain, how- ever violent, ever penetrates into these cocks but a very little way. And if they are dry put up they never sit together so closely as to heat, although they acquire in a day or two such a degree of firmness, as to be in no danger of being overturned by wind after that time, un- less it blows a hurricane. " In these cocks I allow the hay to remain until, upon inspection, I judge that it will keep in pretty large tramp cocks, &,c. The advan- tages that attend this method are that it greatly abridges the labor, that it allows the hay to con- tinue almost as green as when it is cut, and pre- serves it in its natural juices in the greatest perfection ; for it is dried in the most slow and equal manner that can be desired. Lastly, that it is thus in a great measure secured from al- most the possibility of being damaged by the rain." — Essays on Agriculture. The Farmer's Manual says, " Whenever your clover has sweat and cured in the cock, so that you can select the largest stalks, and twist them like a string, without their emitting any mois- ture on the surface when twisted, you may then house your clover in its most perfect state. If you sow timothy or herd's grass with your clo- ver, ycu may manage in this way for the first year with safety — the second year it will be- come about one half timothy, or herd's grass, and must be spread and turned gently, to pre- serve as much as possible the heads and leaves of your clover — the third year your clover will disappear, and the herd's grass must be cut and spread in the common mode ; I say the common mode, for I presume that every farmer spreads his hay into three swarth winrows, (unless it be heavy English grass, of two or three tons to the acre, which will occupy all the surface of the field on which it grew to cure it ;) this saves the expense and trouble of one raking, and that he spreads in the forenoon all the swarths cut before 12 o'clock, (leaving the swarths cut after * Agricultural Report of Scotlancl'. •■ Deane's Nevr England Farmer. NEV/ ENGLAND FARMER. 12 o'clock, to continue in swarlh until the de»v is off the HPXt morniiiEr) and that he S'^U into cocks, before 5 or u o'clock in the ;if(ernoon, all the hay spreai upon his (leld. The fermen- tation which hay undergoes by standiner in the cock over ni^lil. not only sweetens the hay, but prepares it for a more rapid evaporation of its juices the next day, and will doubly pay the expense of cocking, besides the security it af- fords against bad weather." The following methods of prevcntinec hay irom heating in the mow, are from the publi every praise she had bestowed on it, producing excellent soups and jellies from materials before thrown away. " In the other corner is placed an oven made only of one brick in thickness (2i inches) bothffered h at bottom and sitli (lay of July next will com- plete one year since the commencement of the New England Farmer ; and the | paper issued on that day will close the j first volume. It is the present deter- mination of the proprietor to continue ' it unless something untoward and un-' foreseen should occur to darken the prospect of the eventual success of his establishment. Gentlemen whose names are now on the list of subscribers to this paper are respectfully solicited to continue their patronage ; and those who do not give us notice to the contrary, on or before the 15th day of July next, will be con- I sidered as subscribers for the second volume. The subscription of every person who wishes to take the New England /;r?r«ordm«,j,Ca(r.-The Waterloo N.YRepu^^^^^^^^ ,^j j f^j commence with n i'lves an account of a calf belonjm? to Mr. Charles ' •«.* • t of that village, which was calved in Dec. last, ; the Commencement 01 a volume. We . a very large and beautiful heifer two years old ^^^ ^^^^^ ^]^g neCCSsitV of printing the spring, and is of the breed called Enelish rtd. At ] "^ i ' i i ngp of three months the calf weighed 305 lbs.— at , same number 01 papers throughout the 412 Ibs.-at five 510 lbs. He has had nothing .^^^ f^j. tj^g purpOSe of accommodating hay, together with all the milk ol the heiler, ex- J ' f-i i r -ii about one quart per day. which was taken from gentlemen who Wish to DC furnished with complete sets of the numbers, which compose each volume. If we deliver a part of those numbers only to a subscriber, o whole volume will be brok- en, and only a part of a volume paidjor. The terms of the paper for the sec- ond volume will be the same as for the present, and are given in each paper. With regard to Our past labors in endeavoring to make the New England rtASSACHUStTTS AGHlCUI/rURAL SUCIKTY. At the annual meeting of the jfassachusetts Society r [iromoting Agriculture, held in this city on the 11th St. the venerable President, Aaron Dexter, Fsq. M. D. ul Samuel W. I'omeroy, Esq. the firstVice President, cluied a re-election. Votes of thanks were passed . tlie President for his able, zealous and faithful ser- X. « for a period of thirty years, in the various offices 1 rustee, Treasurer, Vice President, and President; it'll the cordial wishes of the Society, in his retiring oiii office, for his prosperity and happiness ; and to aniuel W. Poraeroy, Ksq. for his long and laborious rvices in the respective offices of Trustee aud Vice rt^i'k•nt. The following gentlemen were elected offi- ei-- of the Society for the year ensuing : .lohn Lowell, Ksq. Prtsidtnl. Thomas L. Winthrop, Esq. , first Vice Presidenl. Hon. Israel Thorndike, second Vice Presidenl. John Prince, Esq. Treasurer. Hon. Richard Sullivan, Cor. Secretary. Gorham Parsons, Esq. Rec. Secretarji. Benj. Guild, Esq. JlssistanI Rec. Secretary. TRCSTKES. Aaron Dexter, Esq. Samuel G. Perkins, Esq. }\'M>. Peter C. Brooks, Hon. John Welles, lion. Josiah Quincy, E. Hersey Derby, Esq. On the 2d inst. Mr. Aaron Sherwood, of Bennington, t. sheared from one sheep eighteen pounds and four- t n oz. of washed wool, which was of a good quality nl about sixteen inches in length. The sheep is four e.irs old, and weighed, with the fleece on, one hun- r.-d and seventy-eight pounds. \Vc would again solicit our friends to use their influence to add to our list of subscribers, and thereby strengthen our hands and encourage our hearts in an undertaking, in whose success, as it would be easy to pro\e, every menibei' of the community is interested. With- out re(juisite supplies of oil, no care in trimming our lamp cf agricultural know- ledge can possibly keep it burning. Those gentlemen, whose liberality, punctuality in making payments, exer- tions in procuring subscribers, and con- tributions of a literary and scientific na- ture, have laid us under obligations, and stamped upon our paper whatever value it possesses, will please to accept of our grateful acknowledgnients ; and it shall be our ambition to merit the continu- ance of their kindness. June 21. • r during the first six weeks, lid well proportioned. His bones are small Firts. — The Congregational Meeting-house in Soutl)-, irk, Hampden Co. together with a two-story dwelling 0 iM- adjoining, was destroyed by fire on the 6th inst. A large stable, and fourteen dwelling houses and on 5 were consumed by fire at Fredericksburg, Virg. 1) Ihe 9th inst. Twenty horses perished in the flames, nd the whole loss of propi rly is estimated at $60,000. Three sons of Gen. Paez. of the Republic of Colom- ia. have been admitted to the Military Academy at Vest Point. English Cast Steel Grass Scythes, S,-c. Farmer useful and acceptable to the m .ST received and for sale at the Agriccltcral '.STADLiSHMENT, No. 20, Merchants' Row, fc^^Twenty dozen Cam's superior Cast Steel cvthes — 10 do. Passmore's do. .•y/io — \ further supply of Stevens' patent steel spring ami 3 lined Hay Forks ; together with a great vari- ty of Ploughs, Rakes, Hoes, &c. &c. Likewise — 3 of Stafford's patent cylinder Churns. June 21. TREATISE ON AGRICULTURE. DXE set of BE.\TSON'S TREATISE ON AGRI- CULTURE, for sale at the Agricultural Estab- ishment, No. 20, Merchants' Row. June 21. TERMS OF THE FARMER. (tij' Pablished every Saturday, at Three DoLr.ARS u /Join ler annum, payable at the end of the year — but tho.-e I hi pay within sixty days from the time of subscribing lill be entitled to a deduction of FiFTV Cents. fcj" No paper will be discontinued (unless at the i?cretion of the Publisher) until arrearages are paid. (cj" Complete files from the commencement of the i aper in August can be furnished. t etc?" Agents who procure seven subscribers, and be- I ome responsible for the payment, will be entitled to a ' opy gratis, and ia the same proportiom for a larger lumber. J public, it behoves us to say but little, lest what we observe should look like egotism if we speak well of our own etforts, and of affected humility if we acknowledge our defects. We shall merely suggest, that although Ave have been so fortunate as to receive written as well as verbal testimonials frodfour most able agriculturists, very much in favor of the manner in which the paper is conducted, and are assured that it is "■ sreat good to the agricultural interests of the country ;" yet, unless we have an addition of three or four hundred subscribers for our next vol- ume, we shall suffer considerable pecu- niary loss by undertaking to print this paper, and the loss will fall upon per- sons who are not well able to sustain it. PRICES OF COUNTRY PRODUCE, iiC. [Revised and corrected every Friday.] FROM TO D. C. D. C. ASHES, pot, 1st qual. . . . ton. 145 00 147 00 pearl do 155 00 157 00 BEANS, while, bush 1 00 1 03 BEEF, mess, 200 cwl. . . . bbl. 9 50 9 75 cargo. No I, . . . . 8 50 8 75 " No2, . . . . 7 00 7 25 BUTTER, inspect. 1st qual. . lb. 12 13 " 2d qual. . 10 11 small kegs, family. 14 15 CHEESE, new milk .... "7 8 FLAX 8 9 FLAX SEEtt ...... bush 85 90 FLOUR, Baltimore, superfine, bbl. 7 75 7 87 Genessee .... 7 62 7 87 Rye, best .... 4 75 5 00 GRAIN, Rye bush 72 75 Corn G3 65 Barley 6S 70 Oats 40 42 HOGS' LARD, 1st sor^ . . lb. 10 HOPS, No 1, 10 12 LLME, cask gal. 1 25 65 1 50 OIL, Linseed, American . . 00 PLAISTER PARIS .... ton. 3 00 3 25 PORK, Navy Mess .... bbl. 12 00 12 50 Bone Middlings . . . 14 00 14 50 Cargo, No 1, . . . 12 00 12 50 Cargo, No 2, ... 11 00 11 50 SEEDS, Herd's Grass . . • bush 2 00 2 25 Clover lb. 8 » WOOL, Merino, full blood,washed 55 62 do do unwashed 46 50 do 3-4 washed 50 55 do 1-2 do 45 47 Native .... do 38 40 Pulled, Lamb's, 1st sort 50 60 do Spinning, 1st sort 50 55 PROriSlO.V MARKET. BEEF, best pieces .... Ih. 10 12 PORK, fresh 7 8 VEAL d 7 LAME, per quarter .... 37 50 POULTRY, 10 12 BUTTER, keg t tub ... 13 14 lump, best . . . \C. IB EGGS, doz. I- M MEAL, Rye, bush 75 80 Indian, 75 POTATOES, 40 4& CIDER, liquor, libl. 1 51 2 25 HAY, best, ton. 20 00 22 00 i 368 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. RURAL SCENES. Now summer comes, with flowers aud verdure crown'd, And hi»U luxuriant grass o'er spreads the ground, The laboring; swain, with crooked scythe is seen, Shaving the surface if the waving green ; Of Flora's mantle he disrobes the land, And strips the meadows with a sweeping hand ; AVhile with the mounting sun the landscape glows, The fading herbage round he loosely throws, To catch the ardor of the scorching rays, \Vhich Sol emits in fierce meridian blaze. But, if some sign portends th' nntimely shower. The rustic prophet sees the threat'ning hour ; His sun-burnt hands the scythe and fork forsake. And spotless nymphs may now embrace — a rake ! In petty mounds the fragrant harvest grows. And spreads along the fields ia ler.gthenM rows. Now when the Iieight of heav'n bright Phooebus gains, And pours a flood of glory oVr the plains ; TVhen patilirig cattle seek the cooling lake. And in the sultry pathway basks the snake ; O lead me, guard me from the burning hours, Hide me, ye forests, in your closest bowers. Where oaks majestic, branching arms entwine. With beech and birch and evergreens combine, — .Spread parasols betwixt the earth and heaven. And make at noon an artificial even — Where flows the brawling brooks, for poet's themes And waving ivies overhang the streams, Stretch'd on a mossy couch give me repose, Sweet sleep, which sloth or luxury never knows. From the Monthly Literary Journal, published at Con- cord, (N. H.) by J. B. Moore. INSTANCE OF LONGEVITY. Communicated in a letter to one of the Editors b^ John M. Hunt, Esq. of Dunstable. Respecting old Mr. Lovewell, I have not been able to procure much information relative to his life and character; however, if we may re- ly on tradition, the following succinct account may be considered pretty correct. Zacciieus LovEWF.LL, of Dunstable, who lived to the re- markable age of one hundred and twenty years, was a native of England. He had the honor of serving as an Ensign in the army of Oliver Cromwell, the Protector, and, upon the over- throw of the Commonwealth, and the accession of Charles II. to the throne of his unfortunate father, he left his native country, emigrated to New-England, and settled somewhere in this vi- cinity, in the disturbances which so frequently armed the early settlers of this country against the savages of the wilderness, in which the off- spring of Mr. Lovewell bore such honorable parts and acquired so many laurels, he remained an idle spectator, always maintaining the strict- est neutrality. In his conversations with the Indians, they frequently told him of the many opportunities they had of taking his life, while lying concealed in ambush, but on account of his great friendship for them, together with the circumstance of his having white hair (for which scalps the French government paid no bounty) they never molested him. Not much is known respecting his family, excepting his three sons, who were all distinguished men, and worthy the remembrance of their countrymen. Zaccheus was a colonel, and is mentioned by Dr. Belknap; .lonathan was known as a minister, representa- tive and judge ; and John was the celebrated hero of I'equawkett. D:iiistablc, May 23, 1823. AUTHENTIC ANECDOTE. Communicated by Dr. Isaac Stearns, of Dunbarton. Capt. Caleb Page and Robert Hogg were among the first inhabitants of Dunbarton, and experienced all the privations, hardships, and fears, attendant on settlers of a new country. — Page removed from Atkinson ; was somewhat above the generality of first settlers as to prop- erty; and withal was a very liberal spirited man, imparting his advice and assistance to his neighbors on many occasions. Hogg came from Ireland; was poor, ignorant of the customs of the country, and of the art of husbandry ; but he had a geod education for that time, and was often employed to instruct the children of his neighbors, by which means he obtained the ap- pellation of master. An anecdote is related of these two men characteristic of the cordiality and friendship that subsisted among the early settlers of our country, and which was not suf- fered to be embittered by the most severe jests. Hog'g, wishing to plant some potatoes, and hav- ing understood that people used manure to in- crease their growth, applied to Capt. Page to know what he must use, as he had no manure. Page told him that rotten hemlock would an- swer every purpose as a substitute. He accor- dingly applied a shovel full to each hill. The heat and dryness of this substance ivas such that it prevented the potatoes from vegetating. Be- ing asked a few weeks after how his potatoes looked, Hogg replied, " They have denied the resurrection, for not one of them has come up." Mr. Hogg, however, soon found out the joke that had been put upon him, and without any ill-will waited for an opportunity to retaliate in his own way. Being sent to by Page for tobac- co plants, he sent him a quantity of young mul- lens, which, when young, bear a great resem- blance to tobacco plants. Page had them very carefully set out, when lo ! instead of tobacco, he raised a fine crop of inutlens. At hBrvest- time, Page ordered his men to fill a cart body full of potatoes and take over to neighbor Hogg ; this was accordingly done. Master Hogg like- wise, sent Page a large roll of home raised to- bacco.— ibid. ANIMAL INSTINCT. In the " Introduction to Entomology.'' by Kirby &. Spence, vol. ii, p. 502, the following very remarkable instance of the power of dis- covering home, exhibited by an ass, is commu- nicated on the authority of Lieut. Alderman, of the royal engineers, who was personally ac- quainted with the facts. "In March, 1816, an ass, the property of Capt. Dundas, of the royal navy, then at Malta, was shipped on board the Ister frigate, Capt. Forl^st, bound from Gibraltar for that island. The vessel having struck on some sands off Point de Gat, at some distance from the shore, the ass was thrown overboard to give it an op- portunity of swimming to land ; a poor one, for, the sea was running so high, that a boat which left llie ship was lost. A few days afterwards, however, when the gates of Gibraltar were opened in the morning, the ass presented him- self for admittance, and proceeded to the stable of Mr. Weeks, a merchant, which he had for- merly occupied, to the no small surprise oi this gentlemen, who imagined that, from some acci- dent, the animal had never been shipped on board the Ister. On the return of this vessel I'l', to repair, the mastery was explained ; and turned out, that V'aliante (as the ass was called had not only swam safely to shore, but, withou guide, compass, or travelling map, had foun his way from Point de Gat to Gibraltar, a di^T* tance of more than two hundred miles, throug a mountainous and intricate country, intersecte by streams, which he had never traversed be fore, and in so short a period, that he coul not have made one false turn. His not havin; been stopped on the road, was attributed to th circumstance of his having been formerly use to whip criminals upon, which was indicated t the peasants, who have a superstitious horro^, uch asses, by the holes in his ears, to whic „„ the persons tlogged were tied." CATERPILLARS. _ The following paragraph is from the Woo( '|° stock (Vt.) Observer, of June 10th. "• Many of the orchards in this vicinity ar suffering from the visitation of caterpillars These vermin infest the apple, plum, cherrj and other fruit trees, in some instances buildin their nests upon them, and in others assailin them in companies, devouring the leaves an then quitting them. A similar species of won preyed upon the trees on the west side of th mountain last season. There it is said the travelled in a direct line, destroying the o chards that fell in their way. As a prevent; live, it is recommended to put upon the tree circle of tar, which will prevent the ascent i the caterpillar, and preserve the foliage on tre* '*' where the worm is not bred." , Bid (Ijl Simplicittj and Integrity of the Swiss Mountaineer A peasant name 1 Frantz, came one evenin to look for Gasper who was mowing a meadov and said, " My friend, this is my harvest ; the knowest we have a dispute about this meadon we know not to whom it properly belongs ; decide this question, 1 have collected the judg< at Schwitz; come then tomorrow with me bi fore them." " Thou seest Frantz, that I ha\ mowed the meadovv, I cannot be absent." ".^r 1 cannot send away the judges, who have fixt on this day ; indeed we should have known I whom it belonged before it was mown." The pm had some little controversy on the subject ; bi at last Gasper said, " I will tell thee what the shall do. Go tomorrow to Schwitz ; give th judges my reasons and thine ; and I shall sav Itlk the trouble of going myself" On this agre« m ment Frantz went to plead for and against bio ral self, and threw out the reasons on both sides well as he could. When the judges had deci( ed, he went to Caspar : " The meadow is thin — the sentence is in thy favor." People the earth with such men, and happ ness will dwell there ! Pie' «ie orii liiii ifli THE MILLER AND PAINTER. ' A miller at P — , who lately quitted his mi to keep a public house, sent for a painter t paint him a sign, which he would have the rail '> 1 must have the miller looking out of the wirfis'i dow." " It shall be done," said the painter.- " But as 1 never seem to be idle, you must mak him pop in his head if any one look at him. This also the painter promised, and brougb home the sign. " It is well done, but where i the miller ?" " Oh," says the painter, " h popped in his head when you looked." T^EW ENGLAND FARMER. I'UBLlSHEl) BY THOMAS W. SUEPARl^ HOGERlv UUlllMNGS, CO.NGllKriS Sl'KKET, (t'OURTH DOOR FROM STATE STREET.) '01.. I. BOSTON, SATURDAY, JUNE 28, 182:: No. 48. ■i having all the clearness, precision, and simplicity lich you would expect from men so well skilled, anJ From the Mass. Agricultural Journal, for June. : derive the s;ime benefit, we shall feel ourselves HE MODE OF M.AKING ClOER ADOPTED B\:iiii)i)ly renardeJ for givinq; the Ibliovviiiij hints. THE RELIGIOUS SOCIETY AT CAMERBL'-j 1,1. The process in miiltino; and icfiniiig; ci- RY, NEW-HAMPSHIRE, COMMONLY CALLEi: der j.^ ^rdor to have it good and wholesome, is PllAKERS. I so simple, (though imi.-ortant) that many pco- [It is with great pleasure we insert this article, no; ; ,g e„ti,.(,|y overlook it, supposing the tny.stery Iv on account ofits i»trinsic mer.ts, wh.ch are great, ^^ ^^^^^^ ^^ ^^^ ^^ entirely out of their reach : and others, perhaps, tenacious of the customs of ho make the best cider (it is said) in N'tw-Fnglaud, their forefathers, shut their eyes and ears to id who, in every thing they undertake arc eminently jnny improvement, however propitious to their ccesslul ; but because it gives us an opportunity otj ip,^,^^,^^ .^^^^ Comfort ; such will probably bo con- ealiing of the admirable example set by th.s descr.p- :j^^^,^^j ,^ ^^.^^^^ ^^,^^ ^^^^_■^ ill-flavored and un- in ol pirsous in all that relates to agriculture, horti- ,i l i-r dturv.; and manulactures. With their peculiar tenets wholesome beverage through life, id ceremonies, an agricultural work has no concern ; , Now, friend Prince, it we should expdain it it is its province to recommend excellent esampit:. what we know respecting the management of niatnnsa in fH((/ia((Ort, and in care, and caution, and cider, some people would laugh, and say they lelity in manufacturing articles important to 'he far- jid that and a great deal more: and 1 suspect cr. It will not be questioned, that the Shakers have , .11 „ ■ i- , u , . .1,,, .„.,,„„i<. „„t ^f:„A„-iT-r c> they do, and add many more mgredients, such t a most praise-worthy example — not 01 inauatry, s«- .? i .' r ? , , i.ty, and neatness mcre/.iy, but of exactitude. They ;>s water, pomace, and rotten fruit; and perhaps idertake nothing it) which they do not succeed bettei something more from fowls, beasts, and vermin, .an their neighbours ; and the secret of their success none of which makes the cider any better. ill be found to consist in their system of order, andl ^y^ ^^^\^ ^^j hesitate to give it as our deci- de thorough and effectual manner in which every , , . - ■ ^1 . 1 i- T u ,t inmonj,!! aim cui,t^i.ua j j j opmioD, that cool climates are much more nn? 13 perlormed. It is highly probable, that this ,. '^ 1 ot (should it continue to maintain its ground) will hivourable to Cider than warm. However, what lally furnish the states iu which they live, with the greatly contributes to the goodness and delicac" ;st and purest seeds, wi'h the neatest and most faith- of cider, is the cleanliness of the casks which Uy manufactured implements. We hope, that other contain it. In fine, all utensils used in making cts of christians will s'l'^^v that there is nothing pe- ^-^ ^,^^^^1^, ^^ ,^ ^^ ^^_j ^^^ Suffered to iliar in the opinions of the Shakers which diould pro-, ' ,, u ,l u 1 ,1 jce of necessity these happy and honourable results.j S"-* '""r thiough the whole process ; even liie jt that they will all strive to "have every thing per- press should be frequently rinsed down, during rmed decently and ill order." We hope to be ablet the time of making cider, to prevent sourness reply to the queries of the Shakers, as to the manu-i qj. ^ change in the cider. To clean casks which have been used for ci- der, we take them from the cellar ctiire of woad, or rather its preparation from the leaf, r the immediate use of the dyer. They will be plens- I with the t.stt(rs on that subject, of G^o. Dci>i!>uii. lid Mr. Crowninsliield.] — Ed. of the Musi.^gr. Hep. 0 John Prince, Esq. Treasurer of the Massachu- setts Agricultural Societij. Cakterbuky, March 24, 1023. Inch respected Friend Prince we talve mem icom llie cellar as soon as convenient after the cider is out, (reserving the lees for stilling) and rinse each clean, first with 1 pailfull of scalding water, then with cold, eaving the casks with the bungs down for a day or two, or till dry. Then we bung them tight, and return them to the cellar, or some I recently received your very liberal and convenient place (not too dry) for their recep- rorthy t'avor ot the 22d uli. for which I feel rateful acknowledgment, and hope to make yoi ome compensation whenever you call on is cain. We were very glad to hear of yoir ate return home. The No. of the Journal containing Gen. Detr- lorn's letter on woad, we have had ; but our ilothier having cultivated this plant the list eason with success, is now in quest of info-ma- ion how to mantifacture and prepare it for use. rie has respect to a treatise to which the Gen- jral's letter refers. As to experiments and improvements to om- municate to the Agricultural Society, be asstred we feel much indebted to you, and also to Isq. John L. Sullivan, for your liberality, and sh|uld be willing to communicate any thing in bur power, that would be beneficial to mank'ad ; but as our minds are not so intent on naural and external things as on an interest in CIrist. and as our agricultural pursuits and im; Dve- ments are so small and simple, we considerour- selves inadequate to say much on that sub)ct. However, there are two or three smal, im- provements we shall mention for yourcomder- ation, having been under our experieno for some years; and whicii we find to be benecial to us, and from which, if you and otheracan tion. Previous to filling these casks with ciiler the ensuing season, we scald and rinse them again, as above. Foul musty casks ought to be committed to the fire. Hogsheads or large casks are the best for cider, especially those that have recently been used for rum or other spirit. Apples that drop early we make into cider for stilling, it being unfit for table use ; the spirit of which, together with that of the lees, we return back to our store cider at t!ie time of racking, which is generally about the first of January. Cider made of apples beibrothey are fully rijie, we deem unfit for drinking : and even when ripe, if they are made into cider dur- ing warm weather so as to produce a sudden and rapid fermentation, the cider will unavoid- ably be hard and unpleasant. The fact is, the slower cider is in I'ertRenting, the better it will be at any age : consequently the later in the season it is made, and the cooler the weather (if the business can be conveniently performed) the better; especially for long keeping, liow- ever, this is a cold work for the fingers, unless pressed in a rack, which is the best method. About the first of November we think a suit- able season, if the weather be dry, to gather and put under cover apples for store cider. — After lying in this situalien till mellow, (not rolten) we conimeiico grinding. Doubtless good cider f"r early use, or per- haps for the first year's drinking, may be made previous to this lime ; but cool serene weather should be chosen for the business. The grin.ling trough should be spacious enough to contain a cheese, in order to admit the pomace (if the weather be cool) to lie over one nigiit before pressing. This method con- trilnilos much, both to the colour and quantify of the cidef. In the morning press it out gradually, and put it up into the casks through straw, or rath- er a coarse sieve, fitted and placed within thS tunnel : alter which, we convey it immediately to a cool cellar, leaving out the bugs till the fermentation chielly subsides, which may be as- certained by the froth settling back at the bung- hole. We then drive in the bungs tight, leav- ing a small spigot vent a while longer, if need require, to check the pressure, which must fi- nally be made air tight. .^bout the first of January, wc rack it off free from the lees into clean casks. Those that have been recently used for spirit are to be pre- ferred. Puit otherwise; having dr.iunofione cask, we turn out the Ises, scald and rinse the cask as above ; adi.1 three or four pails full of cider; then burn in the cask, a match of brim- stone attached by a hook, to tlie end of a large wire fix(;d in the small end of a long tapering bung fitting any hole. Whan the match is burnt out, take off the remnant ; apply the bung again, and sb::',-, the cask in order to iniiiregnate the cidt;r with the fume. Add more cid'ir ami burn another match. Then add from one to three t gallons of spirit (obtained from the lees as .ibove) to one hogshead; fill up the cask with cider, and bung it down air tight, and let it remain till it becomes of mature age. Cider managed in this way will keep pleas- ant for years. We would not be understood to suggest a notion, that gcod cider cannot be ob- tained wilhout the addition of spirit ; especially for immediate use, or the first year's drinking; but the contrary. Yet spirit will give it a new and vigorous body, and insure its preservation. To make matches for stumming cask=, take strips of linen or cotton rags about 1 1-2 inch wide, a:id 3 or 4 inches long, dip the end of each in melted brimstone, to th.'^ extent of one inch. 2d. .Another improvement, though very sim- ple, we shall recommend, as having been high- ly beneficial to us for some jears; that is, the preservation of vines, and other plants, from the depredations of bugs and insects, by means of wooden boxes. These boxes are made of thin boards, aboiU one foot square, and 4 or 5 inches deep; covered with thin, loose-woven clolh, pither of cotton, hemp, or linen, quite as thin as a coarse meal sieve. The cloth should be oileil over with linseed oil. The boxes are placed and kept over the hills till the vines become of sufficient growth and strength to bid dofiance to the depredations of those devouring insect.s This is the chetpcst, best, and finally the only effectual method that we have ever found lo preserve our vines from destruction. 378 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. These boxes with careful usage will proba- bly last for the term of 13 or 20 years. They should be put under cover when they are not in use ; and it would be well to repeat the oiling of the cloth tops once in 4 or 5 years with train oil. ;5d. Anotlier thing having been under onr ex- perience lor many years, we find to be \ery beneficial to us in our joint situation ; that is, it saves considerable manual strength and hard la- bour, viz. the taking off hay from the load and placing it oo the mow by a horse, with what we call grabs or hooks, fixed to a tackle, which is suspended to the ridge pole or rafter of the barn, nearly over the centre of the mow ; and to the rope of which (passing under a truck) a horse is hitched and ridden by a small boy di- rectly forward throngh the yard. We frequent- ly take off a ton of hay at four or five draughts, each of which being suspended by a rope, is, by two hands easily swung, as the rope slacks, to any part of the mow. The rope i.'^ held by the loadman, while the horse turns about and com- mences his trip towards the load. However, we could not recommend this method to farmers who cut hay on a small scale, or where but few hands are emplo3'ed. At any rate, we should rather prefer the loca- tion of a barn (when practicable) on the side of an hill, so as to facilitate a passage over a floor across the beams. This method we have prov- ed, and tind it an excellent plan. I presume one man in this situation, will get off more hay in the same time, and with less fatigue, than four would in the ordinary way. 4th. And lastly ; we have a machinc(moved by water) for thrashing and cleaning gram ; which we can, with confidence, recommend to great farmers. This machine will thrash and winnow unusually clean, at least 100 bushels per day : it has done 16 bushels per hour. Thus it not on- ly saves much time and hard labour, but also enables us to secure our grain from vermin and other ivastc, immediately after harvesting. Al- though (as we understand) some s,.giiciou» spec- ulator has copied a model, or nearly a model, from our machine, and obtained a patent for the same, as having been his own invention ; yet we think we are fully able to prove our right of claim to the invention, it being the result of our own mental researches. We never saw nor heard of any thing simi- lar, previous to our building the above men- tioned machine for our own use, in the summer of the year ICIO; to the benefit of wliich, we make you and every other man freely welcome, having never intended to make other people tributary to our avarice, by securing a patent for this, or any thing else, that might be of ser- vice to mankind. However, as we have not room here to give a plan, nor even a minute description of tiiis machine, you will please to call and see it the lir.st opportunity, and judge tor yourself of its utility. Although water may justly be considered by far the best power of motion, yet 1 presume this machine may be so constructed as to operate by horses. The cost, exclusive of a building to contain the grain, is probably about glOO. I am, with due respect, your friend, FRANCIS WANKLEy. P. S. One of your former numbers speaks much in favor of fiorin grass; if you think it to lie profitable, we should like to procure means for propagating it I also a small paper of Mangel Wurtzel seed. FOR THE NEW E.VOI..*.XD PARMER. Mr. EpiTor. — It has become a general prac- tice among farmers to keep Swine shut up in small yards for convenience, and the making of manure. This method I have adopted, and find the advantages to be very great. I still find it necessaj-y that hogs, thus confined, should be constantly fed during the summer season with green food, as their nature is such that they require it, and I am decidedly of the opinion that they do much better for being thus fed. I have sometimes cut clover and other kinds of grass, and thrown it to ray hogs, which they died in about six hours. With three spoonful ^ of juice I put one of lime ; they died in abou *,„' twelve hours. With three spoonfuls of wate ',| ' one of salt, they lived about eight hour! le solution of copperas, a piece as larp'e a i a piece as large a am In th -I robin's egg, and four spoonfuls of water, "the) were lively at twelve last night; I found then dead this morning, June 6fh, at 5 o'clock; thei of course died between twelve and seventeei ' hours. The fifty remaining in the box appea |e lo be in excellent health. I put thirty kernel af corn into each saucer, which I intend to plan this morning, and to put a goodly number o eat very well, but I have more generally prac- worms into each hill, hoping to learn wheihe tiscd feeding them with swamp brakes, which corn will gruxc after such trials, and whethe Ihcy devour greedily, and which I believe do the worm will touch it; whether that will ope them as much good as clover or any other kind rate as the greatest security against his depreda r of grass. I tioH, which in the shortest time will destroy him ,| 1 go lo a swamp once in three or four days,. This I know not; but these experiments wen ,,, and gather a quantity of brakes, and deposit founded on the consideration, that wild animals »• them in my cellar in order to keep them in a birds and insects, almost universally avoid ever green state. Once in a day I give as many of them to my hogs as I think they will devour. INIy method of gathering them is to pull them up, being careful lo get the heart or pith which grows in the centre at the bottom. This kind of brakes frequently grows in meadows and sometimes on hard land among grass, and if thing poisonous in the natural and simple state It is generally by compounds that instinct is de ceived, but by the juices of some simples man preatures are instantly allured to destruction For example, take a few kernels of the ergot o spurred rye, sleep them a short lime in wateri»( pour it into a plate and set it on the floor in fl- pulled in June (taking care to get the heart or ;season ; all the flies in the room in a few minute will be found dead at the seducing cup. Thi is probably the most powerful poison found i Maine. I have it from unquestionable authorit that a girl in Topsham, out of banter, imdertoo! Jo eat it, but before she had finished two kernel livas most severely emeticised. The theory i ^ery plausible, that this was the origin of th (Ireadful and sometimes almost uncontroiabi Spotted lever, that took its rise in Worcesfe county. Mass, a rye country, and which extenc m\ through New Hampshire and Maine. Whe the fever raged most, the spurred rye was mof abundant. For myself I always have it picke out of rye before I send it to mill. 1 had rathe give it to flies than eat it myself. IMiich, I am told, has recently been writtei on the wonderful powers of the sweet elder, b' men of the lirst science in Europe. One says ' Only whip your tender plants, infested will hsects, with the bough of elder, they instanti disappear ; sprinkle them with its juice, the Mill not return ; lay a leaf at the hole of 'i moose, he will never come out." If so power fU on the surface, may it not have some effec beneath it ? I have induced many farmers t« repljnt their corn soaked at least fwenty-foui hcuis in the elder, after the water is boilei halfaway. Should this succeed, it will be im po-tmt to the country ; should it fail, it wil not hurt the corn. Fit should be asked why I intrude unprovec thcarems on the public? 1 answer, it is more t( wan the farmer of his unseen danger, than ir an) way to direct or advise a remedv. The spmg has been late, ^ind in my opinion there is a geat prospect of another cold season. Lei the'armer recollect I80G, 1812, and 1816, whalli,, insets then appeared, what crops he raised, and^hould he be necessilalcd to replant, oats andpotatoes may yet yield a good crop 1 lave this moment received communications frot two farmers in Durham, with much satis. faclon. One has planted four quarts of corn on 'ubblc ground, not soaked ; one quart soaked in ater forty-eight hours, with half a gill d pith) they rarely if ever grow again. A FARMER. Worcester, June 23, 1823. VOR THE KF.W ENCI.ANI) TABIMER. Mr. Editor — Having taken an excursion of a few days into some of the towns in Maine, I have been induced to examine a number of cornfields ; in many of which 1 have found a great number of our secreted destructive ene- mies, the u'lrc or chit u')>rm. This I presume is their returning abundant year. 1 (bund most farmers insensible of the approach of the lurk- ing foe. One farmer in Durham, with great labor and care, opened every hill in a field o' two acres, and found on an average a dozen in a hill. He replanted it on Saturday last with seed soaked in an infusion of the spirits of tur- pentine. I examined a number of hills with him yesterday, the 4th of June, and found on an average seven to a hill ; the last planted kernels as yet unwounded. I took an hunrired of these hardsided destroyers of our prospects of hasty pudding, and gave them a snug birth in a snuff box (being entirely destitute of the comforting powders,) and distributed them as follows : — 1 look out lifty, and gave the remain- der a sprinkling of earth for bedding in the box. Now as I am neither doctor, chemist nor far- mer, I take courage to trouble you with my guessing experiments, solely to awaken the at- tention of the philosopher and thinking farmer to a subject of deep interest lo this country. 1 took three spoonfulls of the decoction of the sweet or white elder, that had been boiled one hour; put it into a common white saucer, and then put in a small piece of earth in the centre. 1 then put in a number of the worms; they still live, but have lost the power of locomotion ; — they have now been in twenty-four hours. I then put six or seven into another saucer with three spoonluls of the juice of elder only ; they died in eighteen hours. I put in the same num- ber with two spoonfuls of lime, so wetted that water stood round the edges of the cup ; they pti ixl i* Hil le jiei ii ittii lioi II. Ki It I :1C| 6ir mil m slit ilei New ENGLAND FARMER. 379 »irils of turpentine. The other did the same .1 new plonghui ground. The untonked of both almost enlirebj cut off. The soaked of both as come up untouched and vigorous. I have been ignor:irit of the iinantily of tur- entine that may l)e used with safety. Here sems to be a good demonstration. The bronn bug, or smaller beetle, appertreil n tlie loth of May, and the air is literally lied ivith them in the evening. They somc- mes give you an uncivil knock in the face in le evening, as if they had lost their wayi — !'hey are now depositing their eggs lo rear the lischievoiis grub worm, that cuts corn, cabbage nd most vegetables at the surface. The young. is said, arrive at maturity in tour years, then jrn to the bug again. C^itcre — Is not this the eturning year of this plodding creature, that eems wantonly to cut ofl" your plant, without jaking use of it ? A. FOR THE NEW EiVCLJND FARMER. M. Farm, June 21, 1823. Mr. Editor — I saw a request in your paper, age 347, that some person would give a plar fa Cow House, and as I have seen no aiftwei 'ill give you a plan of mine ; not that 1 think : perfect, but that every subscriber is in duty ound to see that all inquiries made through our paper are answered in due time. It is 3(i ;et long — stanchions are trom the centre ol ach 3 feet apart — crib 3 feet wide — a rack on le side of the crib next the mow one foot wide, ■hich is one foot from the floor, that the mea ags may be easily put under — the slats in tht ick perpendicular — a board in the bottom o; le rack slanting, that the seeds, &,c. may fall est the cattle — width from stanchions to side f the bam 10 feet — bed must be varied in' idth as tlie cattle are long or short — trencU ine inches lower than the bed, and nine inches )wer than the walk back of the cattle ; or half je depth will answer there, and is preferable, articularly if the barn is low posted. Slan- hions I think far preferable to bows for secn- ity, but cattle lie easiest in bows. My cows leads are all parted with a partition four or iTe feet high, which prevents all quarrels anc" eaching. Yours, &c. HERDSMAN. From the Mass. Agricultural Repository. ON A. MODE OF DESTROYING INSECTS, I take the liberty of indicating a methcd of lestroying (ho rose-bug, and other wingeJ in- ects, which are such nuisances in our garleis, ind so destructive to the tender shrubs snd jlants, which was suggested to me by the fol'.ov- ng occurrence. Going into my garden onesim- aier evening, with a lanthorn, to gather sdad, I found, on my return to the house, tha: Ihe lanthorn was covered with rose-bugs and )tier insects, which had been attracted to it bylhe ight. This simple circumstance led me to the inference that the propensity of moths aidall winged insects tojly at a tight, xvill furnish is 'ith the means of at least diminishing their numb e^ by suffering them to become SELF-nKSTROVERS. It is well known how troublesome they Ire by thronging our rooms in the evenings, wfere a candle or lamp is burning ; how they fly rand it, and scathe their wings in its blaze ; and ow they pelt against the windows, which weare obliged to shut in order to exclude them, liw, I conceive, that availing ourselves of this lure, we might kindle small lires in dilTerent parts of our gardens, near the vines particularly which are annoyed by these voracious depredators, and they laoiild precipitate themselves into the blaze. \ kilid of flambeau might be made, by winding round one end of a stick about a foot and a half long, old rags, or swingled low, dipped in tar or melted brimstone. Let this be stuck into the ground, and set on fire with a candle ; and it will continue burning a considerable time, and prove the funeral pyre to myriads. Tiiese lights might be so placed as not to injure the adja- cent plants, nor endanger surrounding buildings, as no sparks would fly from them; and, if any tears are entertained, they might be watched till they were burnt out, and the effect would be thus ascertained, in order to justify the rep- etition of the experimenl. I have often found the difficulty of freeing my plants from the ravages of insects, especial- ly of the coleopterous class, because they have a kind of coat of mail covering their wings that sheds ofl whatever is sprinkled over them with Ihe purpose of destroying them, and because they occupy generally the under sides of the leaves, or frequent high branches where they are inaccessible : but they would be tempted to fly down to a blaze. The various kinds of moths, (parents of most destructive broods,) and the winged aphides, those great destroyers of the grape vine, would more certainly be lured by a bright flame to inevitable destruction. Perhaps a flambeau, at the end of a long pole, might be held up near to apple trees when in bloom, and be the means of destroying many of the small flics which deposit those eggs in the opening blossom that form the worm generated in the core of the fruit. In the early '=iimmer I have observed im- nense swarms of minute black flies, just at eve- niig, around the plum trees ; and suspect them Mnd to be dclicient — these are the great secrets, and the ouly secrets, of successful cul- tivation. While we wero young proliclents in this science, we read with wonder, not unmixed »vith incredulity, the surprising rilccts of sleep- ing seeds in various liquors, imnrcgnated with substances, which a vain philij.=u^jhy, always more satisfied with novelty than with trutn, had decided to bo the I .-'st Too I for plants. As we have grown older, we have found that the most rational physiologists are not yet agreed as to what is the proper food of plants. They have content d themselves with simple facts, that some plants prefer one species of s^il or ma- nure, and others pccCer a very different one. And they have endeavored, as ihr as possible, to give to each plant the kind of soil and ma- nure in which, and by which, it is found to flourish best. The supposition, that so small a seed as that of wheat or Indian corn can imbibe from being steeped for twenly-four hours in any liquor, however fructifying or favor.ible, a degree ol force, which can enable it to \yithslanT the ef- fects of an uncongenial soil, or to produce more abundantly even in a congenial one, sivors too strongly of mystery to be readily adipted by anv rational mind. We are not dispcseii to deny any influence whatever to such esperiments ; but vvc thir.k it must be very limited, and that vast conceptions — at the same time, that one maij shc-jo them as heathy and hopeless grounds and barren hills as any in England, that do now bear, or lately have borne, woods, groves and copses which yield the owner more wealth than the richest and most opulent wheat lands." There is a strong vein of sarcasm and truth in these remarks, and they haa their ellV-ct in covering England with valuable and beautiful much increased by invigorating the grain (by ■ steeps) that only one half ol the seed will be \ required. Duhamel, one of the most accurate of experimental husbandmen, and a most excel lent philosopher, speaks in the strongest tcrni' agivnst the practice of steeping, so far as it sup ' poics an impregnation of vegetable particles. I shall not here repeat his experiments. 1 shal only observe, that they are such as any Airmei m-iy make ; tliey are plain and conclusive. Goo( seed, when sown upon land in good tilth, wil alwaj s produce a plentiful crop. The best graii impregnated to the full with the most approve( sleep, and sown iii)on land indilTerenlly prepar cd, wil! forever disappoint the hopes of the far forests and groves, as we now find it. Itmayjmer. 1 do not presume to condemn the prac be of some practical use to add the experience ''ce in positive terms because my own e.xperi of the writer of this article. He pl.inted some hills which consisted entirely of sand or gravel, and which would not furnish vegetables lor the support of a single cow for six weeks in a year. It was represented to him by his neighbors that trees would not grov/ upon them. It seemed, indeed, to be a hopeless undcrta'-ing. Still he persevered, and the wood now growing at the end of riftecn years wonld pay, if cat down and sold to the b.ucers, for a sum equal to the price of the land; he believes, to double that price. But the most important remarks ni this sulqect were made in a note by the editor of EvclynV Sylva, Alexander Hunter, the author of the " Georgical Essays," a man of rare merit, phi- lanthropy, and good sense. He goes at large into the question of the value and importance of steeping seeds, placing the question, as »vf- believe, on its true and rational ground. " The steeping of seeds," he rem.'.rks, " in prolific liquors, is not of modern invention. — The Romans, who were good husbandmen, hnv* Icf't us several receipts for steeping grain, h. order to increase the powers of vegetables. In England, France, Italy, and in all countri;- where agriculture is attended to, we see a vt- riety of liquors recommended lor the same pu- pose. Good nourishment has ever been observ- ed to add strength and vigor to all vegetables Hence it was natural to suppose, that by filling' I ments are against it. Other experiments m be opposed to mine. I shall therefore rest tl whole upon a description of what happens grain, after it has been committed to the earth The subject is curious, and the discussion of i not very difTicult. A grain of wheat contaia within (wo capsules, a considerable share o Hour, which, when melted down by (he water juices i)t the eartii, conslitules the nourishmen of lue tender plant, until its roots are grown sul ficiently large to absorb their own food. Heri is evidently a store-house of nutriment, and o pourso the pluinpest grains are (he most eligible for seed. From repeated experiments, 1 an convinced that the jiiumpest seeds are alway preferable to the small ones. 1 have sproute^ (:vory kind of grain in a variety of steeps, an. (an assure the farmer that the root and gem iicver appeared so vigorous as when sproute in simple elementary 'dealer — an argument tha the seed requires no assistance. The same stee Kvliea applied in quantity to the .toj7, will uii duuhtedly invigorate (ho roots, and nourish th^ plant ; but in that case it operates like othe manures, and loses the idea of a steep. A nitre, and sea-salf, and lime, are generally ad ded to steeps, 1 have constantly obsened' tha iheir apjilication rendered the radicle and "--.rn sickly and yellow — a plain proof that they wen I unnaturally used at that season. Did the larioi the vessels of the grain with nourishing liquors, the germ with its roots would be invigorated lio~j! far this is founded on just principles remainb no-jo to be examined. For my part," says Mr. Hunter, " I am not an advocate for s(eeps. Aii my experiments demonstrate that they have no inherent virtue. 1 have more than once sown (he same seed, steeped, and unsteeped, and tho'' it has been grossly over estimated, it would all other circumstances were minutely alike, be indeed strange, if there were n)t some yet I could never obseive the least difiTereii'-e quackery in this ar', as in all otliers, aad while j in the growth of the crops. / confess that •^■hcn we have at iea<( one hundred mt;dicine<, which W/ic light seeds are skimmed off, as in (he opera- will cure every disease (o which man U sul'joc( i (ion oi' brining, (or sleeping in water satura(ed (though no visible diminution of disease has J with sail, which is heavier (ban common wa(er) been as yet produced by any or all cf iboni,) i (he crop will be improved and diseases p7-evenl- agricul'aire should not also have its iniversal c(^, bjt these advantages proceed from the good- ness of the grain sown, and not trom any prolifc virtue of the steep. I am hapj'y in not being singular in mv objection to steeps Many jdii- " ( panacea, £ompetent to eradicate all disease, and to produce the highest possible state ol' vegeta- ble health. It is with no small plea'ure (hat we are able to s(a(e, (hat Evelyn, the Bacon of philosophical agriculture, had a thoraigh dis- belief in this short hand mode of producing lux- uriant and prolific vegeUition. In spediing of the soils in which forest trees flourish, le gives this sly rebuke lo the believers in fnctifying steeps. " Rather, therefore, we wodd take notice how many great wits and ingenous pcr- losopliical iarmers have been induceii (o qui their prejudices, and are now convinced, from their own (rials, (h:i( (here is no dependence on prolific liquors, though ever so well recom- mended. Some peojde have been hardy enough to persuade themselves, that tiie tillering of wheat, (i(s disposiiion to spread and send up many shoots from a single kernel) may be so of the seed need any additional particles, i might be supposed that broth made of the fiesl ^f animals would be most agreeable. [Proba ily founded on the fact that animal manure is ifie most powerfal. — Editors Repository.] "To be satisfied of (hat, I sprouted some giaits in beef broth, and an equal number ii simjio water. They were afterwards sown l>it I could perceive no difference in the croii A' 10 invigorating, or fructifying liquor hac BTCr stood the test of fair experiment, we maj veitire to lay it down as an established truth. th;t plump seed, clear of weeds, and land well prptred lo receive it, will seldom disappoin) thi liopes of the farmer." V« are not prepared to express a decided opoi«n in favor of Mr. Hunter's suggesdons, (hug'i (hey derive grea( weight from the sup- pet of two such men as Duhamel and Evelyn. There is one consideration which Mr. Hunter ha certainly not pressed so far as he might hae done. The bulk of the seed is so extreme- ly mall, compared with (be roots and top of an plant (Indian corn, lor example, whose root an tops probably contain from 200 to 500 times asnuch matter as the seed,) that it is incredi- bl, that any productive virtue (be it ever so ^rreat) could materially affect the growth of a plant, which daily requires so much food. We tliought the article ingenious, and ive give it the preference, because it is in opposition to ''ce, in An apartment in a sweet and well ver.ulaled' f'''^'^'' '''^^ •;^'^7, P°f!''''^ ''^"•'^'^ °' '""^"^'/y ""J cellar will answer a gocd purpose to keep [iiill and cream in. Cheeses shoidd not he set to dry in the same room where your milk is set, for they communicate an acid matter to the surrounding air, which will ha\e a tendency to make the milk sour. The milk room and cheese room should therefore be separate apartments. It will be well to place your milk room, if pos- sible, over a spring or brook, near the dwelling house ; and you may have a stone iJoor, and channels in the floor to pass the water round near the inside of the walls. Into these chan- nels the pans may be set, filled wi.h milk, and surrounded by water. If water could be intro- duced into the milk room, so as to fall from some height on the pavement, it would like- ivise prove advantageous, as the waterfall and the evaporation it causes will contribute to pre- serve the air continually pure, fresh and cool. As the milk itself when brought in warm, will naturally tend to raise the temperature of the milk room too high, it is recommended to have an ice-house attached to the dairy, especially where the advantage of a current of water can- not be obtained. An ice-house would prove still more profitable if the dairy be situated near large towns, where the ice could be sold in summer. Ice may be perhaps as well kept in a common cellar, according to Mr. Nichols' mode given page 114 of our paper, as by any method be removed. Should one or two scourings be insutticient, they must be repeatedly cleansed until ll ?y become entirely sweet, as the slight- est tah.t or acidity may cause material loss."t Sla'e, according to some accounts, makes very good milk coolers, and perhaps free stone might ansiver as well. The quality and quantity of cows milk greatly depends on the nature of their food. Potatoes, carrots and parsnips are recommended as caus- ing cows to give excellent milk ; and mangel wurtzel is highly spoken of for the same pur- pose. Cabbages, if sound, answer an excellent purpose, but the decayed leaves give a had taste to the milk. It is thought best to milk cows three times a day if luUy fed, and great caution should be exercised by the persons em- ployed, to draw the milk from them complMe- ly, not onl3' to increase the quantity of produce, but to preserve its (luality. Any portion which may be left in the udder, seems gradually to be absorbed into the system, and no more is form- ed than enough to supply the loss of what is taken away ; and by the continuance of the same mode, a yet farther diminution takes place, until at length scarcely any is produced. This last mode of milking is practised, when it is in- tended to render a cow dry. You should be cautious in your choice of per- sons to milk your cows ; because if a cow be roughly hanilled, it not only causes pain to the animal, but induces her not to ghe do-xn, or part with her milk, and such retention injures the cow sometimes very seriously, and always cau'^ps her to get into the habit of giving les? and less milk at each successive milking, till rendered completely dry. When cows are Itck- Ihh, as the phrase is, they should be treated with gentleness; and if the udder be hard and painful, it ought to he fomented tenderly with warm water. "After the milk is drawn from the cow, it should be carefully strained through a linen cloth or hair sieve, (Dr. Anderson prefers a sieve made of silver wires, on account of its superior wholesomeness) into the cream dishes, which should never exceed three inches in depth, though they may be made so wide as to contain any quautity required, and which ought to be perfectly clean, sweet and cool. If any ill llavor is apprehended from the cows having eaten turnips, i:c. the addition of one eighth part of boiling water to the milk before it is poured into the dishes will effectually remove it.* When filled, the dishes ought to be set upon shelves or dressers, there to continue till the cream is removed. This should be steadily done bj' means of a skimming dish, if possible, without spilling any upon the floor, because it will speedily taint the air of the room, and the cream poured into a vessel, till enough be ob- tained for churning." The Farmers' Assistant judiciously observes, " If new milk be kept as warm as when it comes from the cow, no cream will rise on it ; but when suflnciently cooled, the cream separates from the rest and rises to the top. In order then to effect this to the best advantage, the new milk should be made as cool as possible, and the cooler it is thus made the more sudden- I3' and etTectually the cream will rise. To set milk pans made of tin in beds of salt would no doubt be useful, where the cellar is too warm ; and to set all milk vessels on a floor, which is constantly covertKl with cold spring water is also an excellent plan." The following remarks relative to the best mode of making butter, are chiefly derived from Dr. Anderson's valuable Essay on that subject. 1. The milk first drawn from a cow is always thinner, and inferior in quality to that afterwards obtained ; and this richness increases gradually to the very last drop that can be drawn from the udder. 2. The portion of cream rising first to the surface is richer in quality and greater in quantity, than ttial which rises in the second equal space of time, and so of the rest, the cream decreasing and growing worse as long as it rises at all. 3. Thick milk produces a smaller proportion of cream than that which is * Ajricultnral Report of Scotland, + Complete Grazier. *I\Ir. Young: lias recommended the dairy-man to boil two ounces of nitre in one quart of water, and to bottle the mixture ; of which when cold, a large tea cup full is to be added to ten or twelve quarts of milk as soon as it comes from the cow ; the quautity of salt petre is to be increased as the turnips become stronger. The feeding of cows with the roots alone will, as the F.arl of Cgremonl found, prevent the milk from having a bad taste. Another method of removing any ill flavor, arising from the cows having eatea turnips, consists ia warming the cream, and afterwards pouring it into a vessel of cold water ; from which the cresm is to be skimmed as it rises to the surface, and thus the un- pleasaat taste will be left behind in the water. 382 NEW ENGLAND FAKMER. thinner, though the cream of the former is of a richer f|iiality- H' tli'<"k miilt therefore be di- luted with water, it will afford more cream than it would have yielded in its pure state, tiiougli its quality w'.\\ at the same time be inferior. 4. Milk carried about in pails, or other vessels, agitated and partly cooled before it is put into the milk-pans, never throws up such g-ood and plentiful cream as if it had been put into proper vessels imn'iodiatcly after it came from the cow. IVom these fundamental facts, the Doctor de- duces, in substance, the following rules : 1. The cows should be milked as near the dairy as possible, to prevent the necessity ot carrying and cooling the milk before it be put into the dishes ; and ps cows are much hurt by far driving, it must be a great advantage, in a dairy farm, to have the principal gr:iss lields as near the dairy or homestead as possible. In this point of view, also, the practice of feeding cows in the house rather than turning them out to pasture in the field, must be obviously bene- ficial.* 2. The practice of putting the milk of all the cows of a large dairy into one vessel, as it is milked, there to remain till the whole milk- ing be liiiished, before any part is put into the milk-pans, seems to Be highly injudicious, not only on account of the loss sustained by the agi- tation and cooling ; but also the more especi- ally, because it prevents the owner of the dairy from distinguishing the good from the bad cow's milk, so as to enlighten his judgment respecting the profit that he may derive from each. With- out this precaution, he may have the whole of bis dairy produce greatly debased by the milk of one bad cow for years together, without be- ing able to discover it. A better practice, there- fore, would be to have the milk drawn from each cow, separately, put into the creaming pans as soon as milked, without being ever mixed with any other ; and if these pans were all made of such a size as to be able to contain the whole of one cow's milk, each in a separate pan, the careful dai] would thus be able to re- mark, without any trouble, the quantity of milk afforded by each cow every day, as well as the peculiar qualities of the cow's milk. And if the same cow's milk were always to be placed on the same part of the shelf, having the cow's name written beneath, there never could be the smallest dilficulty in ascertaining which of the cows it would be for the owner's interest to dispose of, and which he ought to keep and breed from. 3. If it be intended to make butter of a very Jim timitity, it will be advisable, not only to re- ject entirely the milk of all those cows, which * Mr. Lawrence, in his " Treatise on Cattle," ob- serves that " it is affirmed by theoretical writers, that to feed cows in tlie home stall increases their quantity of milk, a fact which various experiments compel me to rlisprove. With me it has ever had the effett of ad- ding; to the substance of the animal, and of diininishin* the qnantity of her milk ; probably from defect of the exercise she was wont to take in collecting her food, and the select i(>n of herbage she was enabled to make. ''^ 'I'his writer, however, is of opinion, thnt " the aggre- gate qnantity of milk in a dairy may be enlarged by keeping pastures free from the tread of the cows, since a greater number inuy be kept, perhaj)? by one tinrd, on the same extent of ground ; at the same time the animals may be sicured Irom the harassing and debili- tating efficts of the sun and flies." t \ provincial word, denoting the person who has the cliief concern iu a dairy. yield cream of a bad quality, but also, in cvevy case, to keep the milk that is first drav.n from the cow at each milking, entirely separate from that which is got last ; as it is obvious, if this be not done the quality of the butter must be greatly debased, without adding much to its quantity. It is also obvious, that the quality of the butter will be improved in proportion to the smallness of the quantity of the last drawn milk which is used, as it increases in richnesM^ to the very last drop that can he drawn from the udder at that time ; so that those who wish to be singularly nice, will do well to keep for their best butter a very small proportion of the last drawn milk. Dr. Anderson proceeds to state in substance that in the Highlands of Scotland the common practice is to let the calf suck till the dairy- maid judges that it has had enough ; it is then separated, the legs of the mother having been previously shackled by a very simple contriv- ance, to oblige her to stand still, and the dairy maid milks ofi' what is left by the calf In this way, he observes, the Highland butter has been greatly celebrated as the '• richest marrowy butter which can any where be met with." — The milk which is tirst drawn, and consequently of inferior quality, may be converted into an inferior kind of butter, sold sweet, or made into cheeses, which, by being made of sweet milk, if made with care and skill, may be of fine quality. Churning ought to be regularly coiitniued till the butter comes, or is formed. If the motion in summer be too quick, the butter will, in con- sequence, ferment, and become ill tasted ; and, in winter, it will go back. Churning, it is said, may be made easier by putting the bottom of the pump chum about one foot deep into a ves- sel of cold water, and continuing it there till thp butter is made. The addition of one or two table spoons full of distilled vinegar, after churning a while, will, it is said, produce butter much sooner in many instances than it can be formed without such addition. Some writers advise to wash the butler after it is formed, thoroughly in several waters till all the milk is removed. Dr. Anderson, how- ever, advises to force the milk out of the cavi- ties of the butter by means of a flat, wooden ladle, furnished with a short handle, at the same time agitating the butler as liltle as ])Ossible, lest it become tough and gluey. " The beating u]) of butler," he observes, " by the hand is an indelicate practice, particularly if it be consti- tutionally warm ; and as it is hurtful to the qua- lity of the butter to pour cold water on it dur- ing this operation, the butter, if too soft to re- ceive the impression of the mould, may be put into small vessels, and there be permitted to float in a trough of cold water beneath the table, zcilhoKt n'etting the butter, which will soon b^ome sufliciently firm. Or, when butter is tirst made, after as much of the milk has been got out as possible, it may be thinly spread on a marble slab, and the remaining moisture be absorl ed by patting it with clean dry towels." It is said in liordley's Husbandry, that "dash- ing in water, and then without pause, clearing the butter from every particle of water is wide- ly difl'erent from washing butter by kneading and letting it remain at all in the water. Very good butter for llavor, color and consistence, is made by one who washes it twice, but never lets it remain in the water a msmcnt. Another butter maker says, mix the salt in the butter in the evening, and let it rest till morning, then work out the liquor, but never let it be once touched with water. Other authors, however, including the writei whose remarks on thii subject are republished from the Poultney Gazette in our paper p. 364, say that the butler should be well and repeat- edly washed ; and the Complete Farmer, an English work of merit, advises, after the churn- ing is completed, to pour water into the churn, and continue to work the churn some time ; then to turn out the water and pour in fresh, and repeat the process three times. Then to suffer the butter to remain in the last water some hours to cool and increase its hardness, when the warmth of the weather renders it re- quisite. Dickson's .\griculture likewise recom- mends kneading, breaking and pressing new mado butler in water, and changing the water till at last it appears scarcely tinged with the milk, which is the only proper criterion by which to determine when the butter has been sufficiently worked. Dr. Anderson remarks, that a considerable dejree of strength as well as dexterity is re- quired in the working of butter. The thing wanted is to force out the milk entirely, with as little tawing [working] of the butter as pos- siUe, for if the milk be not entirely taken away, the butter will spoil in a short time ; and if it be much worked the btilter will become tough and gluey, which greatly debases its quality. Before you put butter into the vessels which are to contain it, great care must be taken that they be well seasoned by frequent washing and exposure to the air for two or three weeks. As it is difficult to season new firkins, it will always be prelerable to employ those which have been UR<5<1. The most speedy method of seasoning firKins is by the use of unslacked lime, or a large quantity of salt and water well boiled, with which they should be repeatedly scrubbed, and afterwards thrown into cold water, to re- main there three or four days till wanted. They should then be scrubbed, as before, and well rinsed with cold water; and before the butter is put in, every part of the inside of the firkia must be well rubbed with salt. Butter may be sailed by working into it one or two ounces of salt, after the butler milk has been forced out. The salt should be thoroughly incorporated, and be of the best and purest qua- lily. Dr. Anderson, however, recommends the following preparation, which he has experienc- ed to be much superior, as it not only prevents the butter from becoming in any degree rancid, but also improves its appearance, and imparts a sweeter and richer taste than could be given by common salt only. For every pound of but- ter take half an ounce of best common salt, ooe quarter of an ounce of loaf sugar, and one quar- ter of an ounce salt petre ; beat and blend the whole completely together. Butter thus cured, should stand three or four weeks before it is used, that the salts may be well mixed. The best butter is made in summer, but by adding a certain portion, (which experience alone can determine) of the juice expressed from the pulp of carrots to the cream previously to churning, winter made butter will thus acquire the ap- pearance and flavor of butler that has been churned during the prime part of the summer season. NEW ENGLAND FARMER. FOREIGN. LATEST FROM EUROPE. Q;5" Accounts have been received fiom London to the 16th, Liverpool to the 18th, and Gibraltar to the 14th of May. By these it seems that the French have rather a tough TOW to /toe, and are liUeiy to get more fclchs than oppers., to pay for their toils and dangers in Spain. Already crops of bayonets nave sprung and are spring- ing up in every part of the invaded territory. This Won harvest the worknitn of despotism must reap^ or leave their mastery's job unfinished. We think it ten to one, if one in ten of the pioneers of arbitrary power 'ver meet with any better compensation for their labors than the wages of sin. Death will probably be pay- aster general of the French forces, before they shall have accomplished as hirelings their day ; and they will find a short way to their long homes before they have completed the work which tyrants have set them to do. We are told that Moncey, one of the Spanish chiefs, has fallen back and gained a position between the rear of the French and the frontiers to cut off their retreat. This manoeuvre has caused apprehension in Paris to become wide awake, and every body is on the look out for misfortune. The funds have fallen, the Parisians are chop-fallen, every thing which relates to national credit and prosperity is sinking, and if the government does not fall into a pit of their own digging, their for- tune will be better than their deserts. The Sun, a London paper of the 10th May, insinu- ates that the Emperor of Russia is not so much the friend of France as has been supposed, and that the Spaniards have nothing to apprehend from Russian hostility. And we are told in the same paper " that affairs are obviously approaching to a crisis, which must involve Europe in another general war ;" and that •' England will be forced into the conjitct sooner than the public generally apprehend , We do not trifle with 1 subject so serious. In the highest political quarter it Is now believed that our neutrality cannot be much long- er maintained.^'' A letter from Madrid, dated April 30, states in suVi- ifance that Saragossa was yielded to the French ie- :onsequence of orders from tJie Cortes not to defend \t'. The strongest enthusiasm in favor of Spanish freedom, ind the most deadly hostility to France, pervades eve- •y part of Spain. It is evident that the French will lot advance their cause one step by the occupation of Madrid. It will only be the moment for beginning hostilities. Gen. Mina, it is said, has had a contest with Mar- shall Moncey in Catalonia, and much loss had been sustained on both sides. A London article of May 16, states that alarms had prevailed for some days in the French capital, and did not originate in artificial but very substantial causes. Gen. Slina, by a rapid and apparently skilful move- ment, has placed himself between the French and their frontiers, and had gained on them more than a day's march at the date of the last accounts. This news caused a panic among the stockholders in Paris, which was in some degree quieted by a tranquilizing commu- nication from the government, but it is predicted that it will not be a long time before the alarm will be again prevalent. ' (Pj=Slill litter from Spain. — The brig Canton, Capt. Tunison, arrived at this port on \^'ednesday, and broH Dews from ft. Andero, in Spain, to the 5th of June. — Bodies of Spanish troops, opposed to the Constitution, entered St. Andero on the *.i7th of April, under Gen. Longa, and of French troops on the 3d of May, under Gen. Dabina* These troops entered and departed from that place several times. On the 20th of May, according to report, a great battle was fought within a few leagues of Catalonia. The two armies, it is said, consisted of about 20,000 men each. The loss of the French is stated to have been 5000 men ; that of the constitutional army 3500. On the 22d May the men under Gen. Longa were all taken prisoners, by a partv from the garrison of St. Antonio, which also captured a French detachment of 200 men, with from 400 to 500 mules laden with stores and ammunition, and 10,000 dollars in money, intended for the French army, which they supposed were besieging that place. It is said that Capt. Tunison saw an official account of the battle of the 20th of May, which represented the ] rciu h to have been completely deleated. The Spanish forces were commanded by Gen. .Mina. The greatest enthusiasm prevailed at St. Andero, and in the neighborliooil, and even the females volunteered tlu ir services in the Constitutional army in defence of their country. Straw Bonnets. — The Society of Arts (says an Eng- lish papei) have voted Mr. Cobbett a medal for his communications on the subject of straw bonnets. The public have heard of seed imported from America, and sown hce, in order to obtain the straw. Mr. Cobbett has produced straw and plat from grass which grows all over this kingdom, and that plat surpasses even the American plat. In short, he has demonstratetl that the people of this country may at once set to work and supplant the Italians in the making of bonnets. PRICES OF COUNTRY PRODUCE, &c. [Revised and corrected every Friday.] DOMESTIC. Gold Mine. — A gold mine has been discovered in the County of Anson, (N. C.) two miles from Rocky river. The ore is said to be very pure, and sells in its crude state at 91 cents the pennyweight. A piece has been dug up weighing 40 oz. valued at J728 ; and another piece weighing 22 oz. worth $340, 40 cents. — Gold is found no deeper than three and an half feet below the surface. Silver Mines. — Late accounts fram Washington Co. Missouri, inform (says the Lexington Gazette of the 5th inst.) that a trading party was forming to visit Santa Fee, in Mexico, and also to open a silver mine which was discovered last summer high up the Arkan- sas river. The quantity and richness of the mineral atfords the most flattering prospect of a very extensive manufactory of silver within the limits of the U. States. Strawberrii • The Raleigh Register states that from a garden in tUi . vicinity, there was lately gathered in ten successive days 100 quarts of strawberries. Extraordinary effects of Lightning. — Mr. Jas. Teague of North Carolina, was struck by lightning on the 5th iust. while walking in his field. His hat was torn into fragments, and some of them propelled on every side to the distance of 30 feet — twenty-live of the fragments were collected. His body M^as scorched and burnt from head to foot ; his left shoe torn into three pieces, one of which was found forty feet from the place where he lay ; his shirt was on fire when he was discovered. — The electric fluid in passing from him, entered the ground, making a hole 1 1-2 inch in diameter. By the use of friction and the warm bath for about forty minutes, however, the sufferer revived, and has since gradually recovered. Thunder Storm. — On the 18th inst. a heavy thunder storm, accompanied by hail, and a violent gust of wind was experienced at Boxford and Bradford, in this State. At Boxford a great number of trees were prostrated, a stone wall blown down, and a barn belonging to Mr. Barnes, demolished. At Bradford, Capt. Joseph Sy- monds, who was at work in his field, was instantly killed by lightning. On the evening of the same day, the house of I Jr. Caleb Fiske, of Scituate, R. I. was struck by lightning. J'our persons were sitting in the two lower rooms, at the east end of the house, with the windows open, one of whom, leaning on a window, was considerably injured by the shock. Bonfire. — Notes of the bank of the Commonwealth of Kentucky, to the amount of one hundred thousand dollars, were consumed by the flames at Frankfort, on the 27th ult. in pursuance of an act of the Legislature. The Legislature of Rhode Island have laid aside a proposition, respecting Steam Boats, until the decision of the U. S. Supreme Court, on the same subject, is made. They have also rejected a bill for taxing Steam Boat Passengers. .4 charter has ueen granted to the Blackstone Canal Company. Clouds of Flies have made their appearance in Mo- bile, and are so numerous as to cover whele sides of horses, and impede passengers in their progress through the streets. .■VSHES, pot, 1st qual. . . . pearl do BEANS, white, BEEF, mess, 200 cwt. . . . cargo, No 1, . " No 2, .... BUTTER, inspect. 1st qual. . " 2d qual. . small kegs, familv, CHEESE, new milk . . .' . FLAX FLAX SEED FLOUR, Baltimore, superfine, Gcnessee .... Rye, best .... GRAIN, Rye Corn Barley Oats HOGS' LARD, Ut sort . . HOPS, No 1, LIME, OIL, Linseed, American PLAISTER PARIS .... PORK, Navy Mess .... Bone Middlings . . . Cargo, No 1, ... Cargo, No 2, ... SEEDS, Herd's Grass . . • Clover WOOL, Merino, full blood,washcd do do unwashed do 3-4 washed do 1-2 do Native .... do Pulled, Lamb's, 1st sort do Spinning, Ist sort PROVISIOjX MARKET. BEEF, best pieces .... PORK, fresh VEAL, ........ LAMB, per quarter .... POULTRY, BUTTER, keg & tub ... lump, best EGGS, MEAL, Rye, Indian, POTATOE.S, CIDER, liquor, HAY, best FROM TO \). c. D. C. on. 145 0(j 155 00 bush 1 10 1 17 bbl. P 50 9 75 8 5(1 8 75 ■7 00 7 25 lb. 13 14 11 12 M 15 7 !! 8 0 bush 85 90 hbl. 7 75 7 87 7 65; 7 87 4 50 4 75 bush 72 75 5(1 60 er. 70 40 42 lb. 10 11 10 12 cask 1 25 1 37 gal. 65 00 ton. 3 00 3 25 bbl. 12 00 12 50 14 00 14 50 12 00 12 50 11 00 11 50 hush 2 00 2 25 lb. 8 9 55 62 46 60 60 55 45 47 38 40 55 60 50 55 Ih. 10 12 7 8 6 8 37 50 10 12 13 14 Ifi 17 doz. 12 14 bush 75 75 80 41 45 iM. 1 50 2 25 ton. 18 0( 22 00 English Cast Steel Grass Scythes, cSr. JUST received and for sale at the Aoricultcral Establishment, No. 20, Merchants' Row, 0:i=Twenty dozen Cam's superior Cast Steel Scythes — 10 do. Passmore's do. Also — A further supply of Stevens' patent steel spring 2 and 3 fined Hay Forks ; together with a great vari- ety of Ploughs, Rakes, Hoes, &c. &c. Likewise — 3 of Stafford's patent cylinder Churns. June 21. TREATISE ON AGRICULTURE. ONE set of BEATSON'S TREATISE ON AGRI- CULTURF., for sale at the Agricultural Estab- lishment, No. 20, Merchants' Row. June 21. TERMS OF THE FARMER. (t^ Published every Saturday, at Three Dollars per annum, payable at the end of the year — but those who pay within sixty days from the time of subscribing will be entitled to a deduction of Fifty Cents. 0:5= No paper will be discontinued (unless at the discretioB of the Publisher) until arrearages are paid. (C5=- Complete files from the commencement of the paper in August can be furnished. (t^ Agents who procure seven subscribers, and be- come responsible for the payment, will be entitled to a copy gratis, and in the same proportioa for a largcf number. 384 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. THE FRKNCH PEASANT. When things are done, and past recalling-, 'Tis folly thon to fret and cry. Prop up a rotlen house that's falling, But when it's down, e'en let it lie. O, patience, patience, thou'rt a jewel, And like all jewels hard to find ; 'Mongst all the various men you see, Examine every mother's son, V'ou'll find they all in this agree. To make ten troubles out of nnc. When passions rage they heap on fuel, And give their reason to the wind. Hark, don't you hear the general cry " Whose troubles ever equall'd mine ?" How readily each slander by Replies, with captious echo, " mine." Sure from our clime thb discord springs, Heaven's choicest blessings we abuse, And every Englishman alive, Whether duke, lord, esquire or genC, Claims, as his just prerogative, Ease, liberty, and discontent. A Frenchman often starves and sin^s With cheerfulness and wooden shoes, W A peasant of the true French breed, Was driving in a narrow road, A cart with but one sorry steed, And fill'd with onions, savory load I Careless he trudg'd along before, Singing a gascon roundelay — Hard by there ran a whimpering brook, The road ran shelving towards the brim, The spiteful wind th' advantage took. The wheel flies up, the onions swim. The peasant saw his favorite store. At one rude blast all puffM away. How would an English clown have sworn. To hear them plump, and see them roll, Have curs'd the hour that he was born, And for an onion d — d his soul ! Our Frenchman acted quite as well ; He stopp'd, and hardly stopp'd, his song ; First rais'd his bidet from his swoon, Then stood a little while (o view His onions bobbing up and down ; At last he, shrugging, cried " Parbleu, U ni mauqne ici que de sel, Pour faire de potage excellent.'"' or dissipation, which you should lay by for the benefit of your family. By all the laws of God and man, of justice and love, tliey have an ex- clusive claim on whatsoever you can earn, and every unnecessary induli^ence which yon take apart from them, is at tlicir expense and injury. Consult your wife, especially in all cases of diffi- culty ; 'tis her interest as well as dutu to give you the best advice she can. Never keep her ignorant of your circumstances ; this has been j the uneJoing of millions of tamilies. The wife who deserves the name, will not fail to econo- mise^ when she knows that her partner's circum- stances require it. lie not much uneasy though the world should sometimes think she has her full share of influence. Women of good sense seldom abuse their husband's confidence. And you will see few happy families in which the wife is either a slave or a cypher. Mutual happiness is your mutual object ; yield therefore to one another. Be ye equally yoked, is the command of God ; but neither seek basely to throw an undue weight on the other's shoulders. Sutler no interference from any quar- ter to interrupt your harmony ; you are connect- ed for life, — Nothing can separate your lot in this world ; O let nothing divide your affec- tions; regard each other with the fullest con- fidence ; the least spark of suspicion from ei- ther, must forever blast the comfort of both. — There can be no harmony where there is no faith. A wife should not only love her husband, but on every occasion shew him all the attention in her power. Study by every means to make his home comfortable, and inviting. Where the treasure is, there ijinll the heart be also, and a man's presence, as well as his heart, will always be there most, where he has most pleasure. And I w ill venture to assert it as a fact incontestible, that he who finds his home a paradise, will sel- dom stroll into the wilderness of the world. — While on the other hand, a scolding wife and a hot house have driven many a wretched hus- band to a tavern, where cards, women, and wine, have sealed his own and the destruction of his family. * Nulhing is wanting here but sail, to make excellent broth. A CLERGYMAN'S AODRESS TO MARRIED PER- SONS AT THE Al.TAR. You, who are the husband, must treat your wife with delicacy and tenderness. Nothing; in nature is so endearing, so 'u^inning, so captiva- ting, as tenderness; nothing creates aversion so soon, so strong, so inveterate, as rudeness, indifference, or disrespect. She is the weaker vessel and depends on you for protection and comfort in all her didiculties. For your sake she has left her friends, her connections and all the world ; and should she meet with a tyrant instead of a lover, she may repent of this day as long as she lives. Never incense nor insult her; and as you wish to keep your own temper and peace, ruffle not her's ; for crossness and asperity, especially when they settle into mo- rosencss, antl ill nature, are the qualities of a savage, not of a christian. Never, on any pre- tence whatever, scpiaudcr that in dross, drinking, NOBILITY — rioMi.vAi. a.\d re.\l. There is a story running through the paper.^, that Matthews, the famous stage player and mimic, being in company with his "• majesty of England," when regent, the latter offered his box, requesting that the player would oblcege him (the regent) by taking a pinch of snuff. — On which the other desired that the regent would open his royal jaws a little wider, and say oblige. The Boston Patriot, noticing this tale, put afloat to honor the player, asks us to " figure George ^Vashington laughing and holding his sides at the mimickry of Charles Matthews, and standing before him to have his pronunciation corrected, in the Manner stated." The idea is intolerable. The eye of Washington, in a case like this, would have sunk the impertinent as through the floor, and all his pranks and gibes and jeers would have been . lost in reverence, had he stood in the presence of that noble man of nature, and perhaps no man that ever lived had a countenance more strongly marked with what is called "dignity',"' than the father of our country. He was sedate and steady, yet not austere — but never loosing sight of self-respect, he exacted it of others, without being sensible that he required it ; and it is hard to suppose that any person, with the least pretension to character or standing in society, should have spoken to him as Mr. Matthews is said to have done to the ruler of kingdoms. A notice of the manner and appearance of Washington, brings to recollection an incident that 1 myself witnessed, and which, because it relates to him, may be worth mentioning. The gentleman with whom I served my apprenticei. ship, in Philadelphia, kept a Bookstore, as well as a Printing Office, at his house in [Market St. He wonid not have more than two or tliree lads in the office, and liberally allowed us free ac- cess to the store lor the use of his books. As I had a regular weekly task that I always per- formed, it was my practice to rise early in tlie summer and seat myself at the front door, where I enjoyed the fresh air, and read generally about an hour before the rest of the family were stir- ring, and when but few persons were to be seea in the streets. While thus occupied, Washing- ton of'ten passed me in his morning walk, and from repeatedly seeing me at the same place, and in the same employment, frequently seem- ed to give me an encouraging look, if our eyes happened to meet ; to which he would some- times add a kind nod of recognition. One fine morning, just before the door 1 was sitting at, he was met by two apparently respectable gen- tlemen, whom, at the first glance, I put dowD for foreigners, just arrived in Philadelphia. — They stared at him with remarkable eagerness, making a full halt to examine him, spontane- ously, as it seemed to me, raising their hats The general made a slight bow, as he passed . they then rushed eagerly up to me, and asked. '' what gentleman is that ?" I simply replied " Washington." One of them then said, '^ B3 , it is the most majestic man that ever I be held ," and they both rushed through the mar kef house, retracing their steps, that they migh' meet and look at him again. By their dress manners and dialect, 1 thought that they wew recently from London. — A'lles'' Register. FIRST BOOK AUCTION. The first book auction in England, of whicl we have any record, is of a dale as far back as 167G, when the library of Doct. Seaman was brought to the hammer. Pre(i,\ed lo the cat* logue, there is an address, which thus commen- ces : " Reader, it hath not been usual here ic England, (o make sale of books by way of auc- tion, or who will give most for them ; but ii having been practised in other countries, to the advantage of both buyers and sellers, it wat therefore conceived (for the encouragement 01 learning,) to publish the sale of these books ic this manner of way "" The celebrated doctor Saunderson, the blind mathematical professor of Cambridge, being ir a very large company, observed, without anj hesitation or inquiry, that a lady who had ju6i left the room, and whom he did not know, hac very fine teeth. As this was really the case he was questioned as to the means he employee in making such a discovery. " 1 have do rea- son to think the lady a fool, said the doctor and I have given the only reason she coule have, for keeping herself in a continual laugll lor an hour together."' INEW ENGLAND FARMER. PUBLISHED BY THOMAS W. SHEPARU, ROGERS' BlilLlMNGS, CONGRESS STREET, (FOURTH UOOR t ROM STATE STREET.) Vol. I. BOSTON, SATURDAY, JULY 5, 1823. No. 49. From the Massachusetts Agricultural Repository. R. T. VV. HARRIS, OF MILTON, UPON THE NATURAL HISTORY OF THE SALT-MARSH CATERPILLAR. In the present stale of agriculture, hay has IS become an important product to the farmer in at maturity, there are two shades ; some being of a dun colour, and olhers much darker. The body of all true caterpillars is divided into twelve segments besides the head. Each segment, in this insect, is covered with twelve yellowish tubercles, arranged, rather ir- regularly, six upon each side : from these pro this vicinity. From the high price and the in- ceed the hairs, giving (he predominant colour, creased demand for the imported and cultivated' The tubercles appear to be analogous in func- the indigenous and natural growth of '='^" to the bulbs ot the hair in the human sub- grasses. the soil must rise in value ; and of this perhaps none is more valuable, on the seabord, than that of the salt-meadows. But various causes have contributed to disap- !tiii point our hopes in the crop of salt-hay, and among those, the most apparently unavoidable ject : they are, in truth, but common bulbs, from which tufts of hairs grow and are nourished, in the same way as each single hair grows and is nourished from its appropriate bulb. Between the third and fourth tubercle, on each side of the median* line, is a stigma or spiracle, of are the ravages of insectsi ' Of these, the cater- "'^'f'' 'here are eighteen, or two in every seg- pillars and grasshoppers have become the mosl,™^"' "'""^^ ^^^i'' except the second, third, and formidable, by the great extent and the annual 'ast- The spiracles are the organs of respira- increase of theirdevastations. Meadows, where -''»"' ^^^ '■""e "'« ^""^'^^ '" number, in all the true they have foraged, are entirelv stripped of theii; '^^'^'"P'"'*''-- covering ; every green blade disappears before The colour of the body, divested of the hair, them ;— what the caterpillars have left being de-l 's yellow, shaded at the sides with black; and voured by the grasshoppers. The object of this paper is to attempt to elu- cidate the natural history of the former of these insects, with the hope that it may lead to some sure method of exterminating them, or of limit- ing their ravages to a shorter period. Caterpillars were" observed, upon the salt- roarshes, bordering Charles' river, near Cam- bridge, some ten or twelve years ago ; since which time they have gradually multiplied ai' 1 extended over the contig^o^s i"Kr.'»hc-. Tb»- were once by a high tide and strong wind driv- en upon Boston-neck, near to Roxbury line, where they laid in " winrows," apjiarently dead ; but after the storm had abated they were resus- citated by the heat of the sun, and commenced their depredations anew, overrunning garden? in that vicinity and destroying every green lea) in their path. Thence, I presume, they mi- grated to the eastern side of the neck, and have followed the meadows as far as Quincy. To what distance they have spread on the north 01 Charles* river, I have yet to learn. They are also found on the marshes in Kingston ;' bui probably originated from a different source from those in the environs of Boston. The salt-marsh caterpillars are produced from eggs, laid by moths in the middle of June, which are hatched in the air, in seven or eight days afterwards. These eggs are nearly round, less than a grain of msstard, and about eight hun- dred in number from one female. The cater- pillars are small and feeble at first, eating only the most tender part of the blade of grass ; but rapidly increase in growth, and, in seven weeks or fifty days,* attain their full size, having re- peatedly cast their skins. Individual*, at this period average one and three quarters of an inch in length. While growing they change the colour of their hair very remarkably ; — being nearly of a mouse colour when small", and of a brownish hue when fully grown. Of these, * They continue in the feeding state about as long as the apple-tree caterpillar, which is produced by the Pbatena Ncustria of Linne. there is a blackish line extending along the top of the back. The spiracles are white and very distinct. The hair proceeding from (he three upper- nnost tubercles, on each side of a segment is al- n"ost black, as well as that from all the four first segments of the body. That from the tubercles li the sides is of a much lighter shade. On the tvo last segments of the body the hair is much longer than the rest. Tills c.-iterpillar, like most others, has oigh( eyes, four upon each side of the head. These are not to be distinguished without the aid of a microscope. They are situated just above those whit5 feelers, so plainly seen attached to the upper lip. The eyes are here arranged in a semicircle, whose convex side is directed ante- riorly. The jaws are (wo, strong and corneous, and their operation, in eating, may be distinctly heard as well as seen. It has sixteen feet; — six anterior and horny, and ten posterior and fleshy. These enable it to run with considerable celerity, as we may see, when the insect is at its full size ; at which period it commences the wandering state, and leaves the meadows in search of a place of security for forming its cocoon. These caterpillars are endued with a great degree of vitality ; for long immersion in water does not destroy life. Being often exposed tu that element, they seem provided with the power of enduring its approaches. They feed twice in the day ; about ten o'clock in the mor- ning, and four in the afternoon. If overtaken by the tide while feeding, they mount to the lop of the grass; and then, if obliged to relinquish their hold, contracting themselves into a circu- ar form, they commit themselves to the water. On this they float and are carried to the superi- * I have taken the liberty to employ this phrase, which is a technical one in Anatomy and Physiology, for that line which divides the animal into two equal and symmetrical halves, and I wonld indicate by it a dark line running upon the top of the back, the whole length of the body of this insect. or parts or borders of the marsh. There they arc left, with the wash of the sea, in heaps, but alive, anil in a short lime ready to recommence thi'ir depredations upon the meadows. But when not engaged in feeding they conceal them- selves at the roots of the grass, where they are equally secure from the effects of the water, even though covered by it. In this way also they pass the night. The hair, upon their bod- ies, appears to po.-ssess a repelling power, which secures the spiracles from the admission or ac- cess of the water ; for, were (his to be the case, the insect would be drowned. We should sup- pose that the tide, on receding, would sweep away many of these insects ; but this is not the case : for in consequence of the irregularity of our shores, and of the power, which these cat- erpillars have of remaining, uninjured, on the surface of the water, for a long time, they gen- erally gain some place of lodgment and safely. Their most favourite food is the ' Onion grns»,' which is very succulent ;* but tliey are not fas- tidiODS, and eat with avidity ' Fox' and ' Botlom- grass,'' and even ' Thatch'' and '■Sedge.'' Of (he ' Black-grass't they are not so fond, probably be- cause it ripens sooner than the others, and is found nearer the upland, and thus, before it is reached, it becomes too dry to iuraish the juices by which (hey are nourished. By the fir.st of August, generally, the«e insects have attained their greatest size. They now become very voracious, and continue eating all the day and night, without intermission. Soon they leav« the meadows, aggregated in great numbers, and commence the wandering state, .or ' begin to run,' as is the phrase, devouring every thing in their progress. Corn fields, gardens, and even the coarse and r^nk produce of road- sides afford them temporary nourishment, until they have found a place of sec.^iriiv from tide and weather, and concealment from their ene- mies of the animal creation. A siane-wall, a wood-pile, fencing-stuff, and even i.-iy-mows and stacks are the resorts of these caler,.il|ars, where they intend to take up their winter qcip- ters, and construct their cocoons. I have heari of their being dug up, in vast quantitie.s, from the ground upon the eiigc of a salt-marsh ; but, in this instance, it is probable that, being pre- vented by ditches in their attempts to escape from the marshes, they were prompted by in- stinct to take refuge deep in the bank. The cocoons are formed ot silk interwoven with the hairs of their bodies, and lined with a silky lamina of a dense texture. These cocoons retain the colours peculiar to the caterpillar: those being brown, which are fiibricated by the dark larva, and the olhers ranch lighter colour- ed. If we examine the recent cocoon, we shall find the caterpillar within it entirely destitute of hair, and much contracted. In a few days it casts its slough, and becomes a chrysalis, of a dark brown colour, and about three quarters of an inch long. In this state it passes the wiii- * It is so full of juice as to be with difficulty dried. t Tri^lockin viarilimuni, L. sometimes called the sea arrow grass. This is considered by Mr. Lowbll ae the most valuable species. }86 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. ter, and, vrithin the first and twentieth of June, the moth emerges from its chrjsalisand cocoon, an I flics towards the meadows ; where, after the hymeneal rites are celebrated, and the eggs deposited, it dies. The moth is the perfect state of the insect. — There arc two varieties, as to colour, corres- ponding with the caterpillars from which thev are produced. From the dark caterpillar and brown cocoon proceeds a moth with ash-colour- ed wings; and, from the lighter coloured larva and cocoon, is disclosed a moth whose upper wings are white, as are also the under wings in some individuals. These colours do not desig- nate the difference of sex : for though the upper wings ol'the male are invariably while, those of the female are not as invariably ash-coloured ; but this diflerence or variety of the female will be more distinctly described below. 1 would al- so mention that the male, and the light-colour- ed variety of the temale, both proceed from caterpillars and cocoons of the same colour. The male moth will be tirst described. Head and tliroax white ; eyes black ; anten- na; black, and doubly pectinated. Body orange- coloured, with six black s|)ots on the top of each ring, and a white line betvreen a double row of black spots on each side ;* beneath the abdomen is a single series of four or live small spots : tail white. Upper wings white above, orange coloured beneath, spotted with black upon both surfaces: under wings both above and beneath orange-coloured, with a kw large black spots. Thighs orange coloured ; legs and leet white, spotted or banded with black. Female — Head, thorax, tail, both surfaces ol the upper and under wings, under part of the abdomen, and the thighs entirely ash-coloured. The wings are spotted with black. Upper part of the abdomen as in the male. Antennse doub- ly (but slightly) serrated, not pectinated. V'ariety of the female — Head, thorax, and tail, white. Upper part of the body as in the male. Upper and under wings white upon both surfaces, and sjjoi'ed with black. This variety very much resembles the male, when the wings are closed, 'or then the under wings are not to be seen, 't 's however easily distinguished from the nii"'e by its antennas which are serrated : and when we examine the under wings, and the i.iferior surfaces of the upper wings, and body, we tind them to be destitute of the 3'ellow or or- ange-colour, peculiar to those parts of the male. ] would only add to this description, that the motha, of both sexes, are furnished with a short tongue, separable into two filaments; and have also two scaly palpi, above the mouth. This insect is closely allieil to several others, very common in Europe, and some of which are also found here; such as Bombyx erminea,t &c. These form one family, and are arranged under the genus Arctia of Latreille, and Leach. This genus contains those moths, which have two scaly feelers ; pectinated or ciliated antenna; ; a short membranaceous tongue, composed of two separate filaments; and trigonate,dfcilexed wings; the caterpillar having sixteen feet. Professor I'cck, to whom this moth was shewn, considered it as a nondescript ; anil proposed to call it pseud-crmiiiea, bastard ermine, -rom its af- * The upper consi^tinaf of six, in number and sizr corresponding with those on tlie back, ;»nd the lower of 4 or 5 spots whirh are f-Tiallt-r than the fcrmcr. t Arctia hibricipedu. Leach. Arctia Menthastri.' finity to the above mentioned Bombyx erminea.* I would therefore define the subject of this me- moir. Arctia (pseud-erminea) alis masculis anticis albis ; posticis fulvis, utrisque nigro punctatis : tergo fulvo, sex maculis nigris supra notato; ventro quinquefarie nigro punctato. Focmina variat alarum colore. Larvae gregatae ; vcrrucis luteis piliferis. Pupa folliculata. Interdum maculam septimam super postrema corporis parte videmus. Fuemina alis (anticis posticisque concoloribus) albis vel cinereis, ni- gro punctatis. There are two facts, in the history of these caterpillars, that should be ascertained. First — the place where the eggs are deposited ; this 1 have not as yet been able to discover; those eggs, which 1 obtained, were laid under glass vessels upon paper. Probably they would be found around the culm of the grass, or regular- ly arranged upon the leaf. Secondly — whether, by bringing home, with the hay to our barns, the caterpillars when fully grown, we are not liable to introduce them eventually into our up- lands, where they miglit become as it were naturalized ; and thereby increase the evils we already suffer from their devastations. This we have some reason to fear; since we know that the caterpillar at one period, (and that some- times for several days,) feeds indifferently upon all green herbage. Some observations, made upon doubtful specimens of the larva and per- fect insect, found occasionally on the upland-, favour this opinion. The peculiarities in the appearances of these specimens may possibl)- have arisen from a want of the food most naturti to the caterpillar. Still both these points ar* as yet merely matters of conjecture ; furthei; examinnlion must establish or rel'ute them. From observation and experience I would re- commend the following plan, by which we may lessen the evils that we suffer from this enemy. First, to cut the grass early in July ; and sec- ondly, to burn over the marshes in March. In defence of early mowing, it may be said, — that it is the only way by which we may save the crop from those meadows where the caterpil- lars have multiplied to any extent. The prece- ding history furnishes the data, from which to calculate the best time for affecting this purpose. We have seen that the caterpillar is hatched about the twentieth of June, and that its ravages are continued seven weeks. If then the mead- ows, in one vicinity, are mowed about the fourth of July, the caterpillars, being small and feeble, will be deprived of their means of nourishment, and being unable to wander far, will die, before the crop is gathered into the barns. By the process of making the hay, most of the succu- lent juices are evaporated, and the grass be- comes so dry and hard as to rceist the efforts of these little devourers. Thus we see that the Black-grass, by ripening early, is rejected by them, and the crop is saved. By the practice of late mowing, where the caterpillars prevail, the crop is diminished, im- mense numbers of caterpillars and grasshoppers * Bombyx (Menthastri) alis deflcxis albis nijro sub- pnnclatis ; abdominis dorso fulvo, nigro pnnnctato ; fe- rihu3 anticis I'lttis. AbdoaK n album, quinquefarie nigro punctulatnm ; dorsoquc fulvo. Antennsc snbtus nigrax. Fabr. Entomolog;. Systematica. are left to be dispersed npon the uplands, la it \4 multiply and increase the existing evil ; or are US'"' brought in to perish in our barns and stacks, »««'" where (hey communicate a most unpleasant fla- k^J' vour to the hay, rendering it unpalatable to ourt* stock, and occasioning a waste of fodder. Many beneficial effects result from burning over the marshes in March. This has beea long practised in the British province of New- Brunswick, and is getting into use in this vicin- ity, to the manifest improvement of the crops. By It the stubble or " old fog" is consumed, which becomes more necessary from early mow- ing, in the preceding year. By this means also Lw we may destroy innumerable eggs and larvae of grasshoppers concealed in the grass* the past autumn, and which, if matured, would produce a host more formidable than that of the cater- pillars themselves. The roots of the grass are not injured by burning the stubble ; they are fertilized by the ashes, and in a short lime af- terwards we shall be gratified by seeing the grass springing from the blackened surface with increased strength and fresher verdure. The ]>receding observations on the history of these insects, are the result of the inquiries, in- vestigations, and experience of the writer for several years; and the practice here recom- mended is one that was tirst suggested by neces- sity, and whose good effects have been reaped by many. Tills little memoir is offered to members of the Massachusetts Agricultural .Society, with the humble hope that they may derive some profij from what has been a pastime to the author. Milton, 1822. T. W. H. "11 tad' fork. rberf ■pl ■li ipin (ere larro' )irti tc.) » De Geer. From the Mass. Agricultural Repository. P.4STEL, OR VVOAD, 4ND ITS eul^ I UKt. We insert with great pleasure, the following communications on the culture of Woad, (Isafis Tinctoria.) and General Dearborn will permit us to express our sense of the obligation which the public are under to him, for his continued efforts to introduce the cultivation of this plant, now so important to cur manufactures. During the late war. General Dearborn made some in- teresting experiments on a small scale, to prove the practiciiiility of raising this important dye- stuff in the United States. Though his exper- iments were not extensive, tliey were entirely satisfactory. He did more. He compiled and wrote, and published at his own expense, a trea- tise on the culture of this plant, which contains all the information neccs-ary lor a cultivator of it. The peace came; with it, low prices; and the subject lost a portion of its interest. But great changes have been wrought during the last seven years, and the culture of woad has again become a subject of deep interest. The fact, that an extensive manufacturer, like Mr. Crown- inshield, has found it for his interest to cultivate this plant, and has proved its value practically, seems to set the question at rest. We invite our cultivators generally, to read with attention these communications, to procure Mr. Dear- born's work on Woad, and to make some mode- rate experiments upon this article. Mr. Dearborn''s letter to Mr. Lowell, April 9, 1 823. Dear Sir — I inclose a letter from Richard Crowninshield, Esq. on the cultivation of woad, which, if you think proper, please to cause to iJttl ke; kf k( 11 th ircil lt;t ich k hi leal Dill '! icrf M( lo itn Ml NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 387 e inserted in the Agricultural Journal. It is lie largest experiment that has been made in his section of the country. It shews that our rinufacturers can raise this valuable article for he dyeing vat, at little expense, and with great •a-e. With great respect, your most humble servant, H. A. S. De.^rborn. .■tract of a letter from Richard Crowiiinshield, Esq. of Danvers, to Brigadier Gen. Dearborn, dated March 29, 1823. " I planted about 6 acres with 9 bnahels of ivoad seed, in 1822, some of which seed you !»as so obliging as to present to me. The re- mainder was procured from Connecticut, New- Sforfc, and some were of my own raising in 1821, rem seeds received from Dr. Nichols, in 1818. There was no difference in the plants raised "rom these several parcels of seeds. The soil was light, dry and sandy. The land was broken jp in the spring of the same year. The sods were removed, and the land crop ploughed, larrowcd, and furrowed out 2^ feet between he furrows. About 40 cords of good compost oaanure, (consisting of horse dung, cow dung, and pig manure, mixed with about one fourth Dart of its balk of bog turf, which had been in leaps about two years, with some ashes, lime, fee.) were spread on the land and ploughed in IS for Indian corn ; the furrows were slightly jarthed. The quantity of seed two bushels to he acre. They were sown rather thickly in he furrows, in order that in gathering them, here might be a full handful of plants to crop it the same time. The seed was lightly cov- >red. It was all sown before the 20th of May. t grew well, but required five or six men to seep down the weeds in July. It was all pick- ;d or twisted off quite to the ground. It was hen again cleared of weeds, and in 14 days the lew leaves were from 9 to 14 inches long in •ich spots. The second crop was gathered from he 15th to the 20th of August, and produced ibout four tons of green leaves, about one ton ess than the first crop. The dry weather pre- 7ented a third crop from being taken. Some '.eaves were however taken in October, 5 inches ong, but 1 preferred to let them generally re- ■nain to protect the plant against the frost, hav- ng the lust winter lost an acre of woad, and an jcre of teazels, by frost. The loss in woad was nuch less than in the teazels ; the plants which 1 lost of the latter would have sufficed for four icres, and have produced much money, being worth from 50 to 75 cents for every hundred plants. All the woad plants are now alive, (that is, on the 29th March, 1823,) and have grown half an inch. 1 have also many thousands of teazel plants in good order. The expense of cultivating woad is about equal to that of cultivating onions, and ten men will crop an acre in a day. " There is something remarkable in the woad plant. Some roots which produced seeds last year, sprouted again from every joint like cab- bage sprouts. They are now again sprouting from under the snow, the leaves are green, and may again be cropped this spring. / shall haze a great quantity nf seed to dispose of at §1,50 per bushel. I paid two dollars. There are but few men in America who understand, perfectly, the preparation of woad for the dyer. Our farmers, should it become the policy of the nation to raise and manufacture our own woollen goods, equal to the national consumption, will probably find it for their interest to raise woad, and de- liver it green or dry (as may be most conveni- ent for them) at regularly established mills, ex- clusively devoted, as in England, to this article. Inclosed you have an article from the N. York Statesman on woad." The article referred to from New York, is interesting, and is, therefore, here inserted. I N. B. General Dearborn has still a few copies of his work at the command of i>ersons disposed to cultivate the woad. AMERIC.IN MANUFACTURES. Extract of a letter from Cincinnati, Ohio, to the editors of the Statesman. " Having seen several communications in your valuable paper, respecting the art nf dyeing, and (he cultivation of the u-oad plant, by which it seems that manufacturers in your part of the country are doubtful whether woad can be pro- duced in the United States in the same perfec- tion as in England, 1 have thought proper to state, for their information, that in 1821 I plant- ed two acres, and found the produce to be at least one fourth more in quantity, having cut seven crops during the season. In England, 1 never knew more than five. Its strength, as a mordant, exceeded the English at least one third, containing three times the coloring mat- ter I have ever found in any woad, after an experience of forty years, in an extensive trade in England. I herewith forward to you some patterns of wool, dyed with this woad, and regret I had not preserved some colored with woad only, by which artists acquainted with the subject would know its superior qualities. I have always ob- served in England, that our woad plant produces more in quantity and better in quality, in a warm season ; and I attribute its great perfection here to the same cause. Your manufacturers of woollens cannot fully succeed tmtil they become well acquainted with this useful plant, as no good blue, black, green, or purple color can be produced without it. — .\ll other modes are imperfect, expensive, and mischievous. Having made this country my home, I shall take pleasure in communicating this knowledge, to any one that may need it, for a moderate compensation. fVritten directions may be given for growing and preparing woad, without any chance of error; but to use it prop- erly, requires considerable attention and good instructions. 1 suppose it may be produced for three or four cents per pound — perhaps for something less. I have sold some of mine at Baltimore, this season, for 12^ cents, by which you will perceive there is great profit in its cultivation. In my opinion no substitute for woad will be found worthy of attention, although it seems your friend Ilopson thinks he has discovered one, which will answer the purposes both of woad and indigo. Your correspondent will con- fer a favor on me, by giving a description of the wild indigo plant, as he terras it. I will investigate its properties, and communicate the result to him. Your correspondent who has written on the scarlet dye, appears to be acquainted with only a part of the theory of that art, as two essential ingredients are not mentioned, one of which I have seen since my arrival in this country. — Your friend is also in an error in supposing he can render color more brilliant by using steam I have made use of steam in dyeing for near!) thirty years, and am well acquainted with its advantages and disadvantages. It is a cheap and expeditious mode ; but it cannot be used for fine colors, such as Saxon blue, green, pink, crimson, scarlet, orange, yellow, and all olhei delicate colors, but at the expense of its beauty. All dyers should know, that when bright col- ors are wanted, the first step to be taken is to clear the water of all mineral and animal sub- stances. This is all that is necessary to prepare the liquor for any bright color; but if raw wa- ter be added, or steam suflered to flow into the vessel, the beauty of the color will be destroy- ed, in proportion to the quantity admitted." The letter, from which the foregoing is an extract, adds a number of other particulars con nected with the subject of manufactures. It states, among other things, that large quantities of Fuller's Earth are said to be found on the banks of the Wabash; but after diligent search, none, in a pure state, has yet been discovered in the vicinity of Cincinnati. Our correspondent has put to us the following questions, to which we hope some one will furnish satisfactory an- swers, as we are unable to do it ourselves : 1. What quantity of woad would be consumed annually, in the vicinity of New York and Phi- ladelphia, estimating one pound of woad to five pounds of wool, dyed of a dark blue ? 2. Would the manufacturers give a reasona- ble compensation to be instructed in the art of dyeing generally ? 3. Whether it would answer any good pur- pose, for a person who understands the manu- facture of woad and its various applicnlions in the art of dyeing, to establish himself in this part of the country ? It is proper to remark, that wc are wholly unacquainted with the writer of this letter; nor have we a sufticient knowledge of some of the topics embraced in his communl-.ation, to judge of the accuracy of his remarks. Ilopson will be able to speak for himself, where tis correct- ness is questioned. The beautiful specimens of coloring, accom- panying the letter, may be seen at this oflicc, where the name and address of the gentleman who forwarded them may be obtained. To the Editor of the American Farmer. Fort Osage, (Missouri.) .Ipril 8, 1 323. " I am, at this moment, experimenting in my nursery. I have grafted apples on sycamore and cotton free slalks, close to the roots. I am told that the most flourishing and surest orch- ards of apples in the west, are growing on syca- more roots. 1 am trying peaches on the wild plum, and shall, by recommendation of one of my neighbors, graft some peaches on stocks of the common black walnut. This neighbor' of mine assures me, that he has seen a very old and flourishing peach tree growing on a walnut — it is easy to try it ; and should it succeed, perhaps we may be able to obtain durable peach trees — at least, we shall escape the annoyance of the worm. I am determined to try all man- ner of ways to procure a good permanent peach orchard. The result of such of my experiments as prove successful, shall be made known to you in due time." 388 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. From the Baltimore Morning Chronicle. TO THE PUBLIC. As tlie season of Ihe year is approaching, when persons owning horses become alarmed, in consequence of these animals passing off hots with their feces, 1 have thought proper to en- deavor to remove such fears, by laying Ijefore the public some facts which I have noticed in the course of twenty-four years experience. Bots are generally found adhering to that portion of the horse's stomach, which is lined with a continuation of the oesophagus mem- brane, to about one third or little more of its extent; sometimes Ihey are found attach'd in great numbers to the pylorus, or the posterior opening of the stomach. The time that horses begin to pass tliem rff, is generally in June, and so on through ^^f>i!tembcr to October. The bot remains in a chr>salis state for an uncertain, but *hort time, an I then assumes the same char- acter as the parent Ay. To prove, without the possiliility of doubt, that the bot is produced from the fly which dci)0sites its ova on the hair of the horse, I took twelve bots that came from twelve horses; these I put into separate vials, and with paper wrapped round a quill barrel, 1 made stoppers to give ventilation, and noted on each vial the day that each bot came from the horse ; this was convincing as to the uncer- tain time of the chrysalis ; for some produced tlie lly in twenty-one days, others in forty-nine days, and others in the intermediate time. The flies thus produced were the same as those that de|)osite their eggs so plentifully on ditVerent pans of the liorse. What it may be that causes this difference of time in the chrysalis admits of speculation. It is proper to notice, that a bot taken from ihe stomach of a dead horse, cannot produce the fly, as in this stage of its progress througli the canal, it is not sufficiently matured. There is no worm that we know of, in the intestines of the human subject, which makes such an annual rot.ttion ; and in consequence of, their long continuance in the intestines, we find numbers of the human family destroyed by them. Whereas, h may be presumed there would be few or none killed by worms were their rota- i tion nnnual. .\nd as bots perform this annual course, it can be no cause of surprise that tliey are not so destructive as they are commonly i sujiposed to be. Was it a fact that they were thus destructive, we should find very few colts raised to the age of four years, for colts gener- slly run out until they are considered ready for work, and are fully exposed thro' the summer to the action of the fly. if a hor^e, by symptoms, expresses much pain, it is said to be the bots; and so much does this opinion prevail, that people imagine bots kill more horses than any other disease. If we reverse this opinion, we shall perhaps come nearer to the fact, for in all probaiiility there is no disease that destroys so few. When he is said to be sick with bots, it is generally spasm or injluraniuliun of the intestines. That bots never kill 1 will not assert, though there arc eminent veterinarians in England who say they never do. It is a common opinion, that a few bots are essential to the health of the horse. This er- roneous idea arises from people opening but few r.fler death, and tho«e few being found to have bots in them. But in the many hundreds that I have opened, their have been some in which not a bot was seen ; and not one of these may be supposed to have died for the want of bots. The motive I have in making this com- munication is to remove the fears that prevail with some persons, when they see bots coming from the horse, as if they were so numerous as to kill him immediately. But for the informa- tion of such persons as would rather give some- thing to facilitate their discharge, when they see a few coming away, 1 would advise one ounce of powdered savin, to be given in the horse's feed, once a day for three days. At the season above mentioned, I have recommended this medicine to such persons as 1 could not per- suade to be satisfied with the course of nature ; and they were very much astonished at the quan- tity of bots, brought off by it. JOHN H.\SLAM, Veterinary Surgeon. Baltimore, April 13M, 1823. From the American Farmer. Pittsjiehl, Gth June, 1823. Dear Sir — I have noticed an article in your No. 5, vol. 5, of " a A'cw Jerse}/ Suhscriber," on Ihe subject of Ruta Baga, in which he expresses his doubts, if it be a profitable crop, and gives his reasons. Equally desirous with your correspondent of eliciting practical knowledge, I am induced to state, that five years experience, satisfies me that it may be raised to advantage, tcherever the cliinnte is adapted to its culture : — because, 1st. To raise a good crop it is necessary to put the land in a good state of tilth. 2d. The requisite care of the crop, while it extirpates weeds, prepares the soil in the best possible manner, for stocking to grass with the succeeding crop of grain. 3d. All kinds of live stock are fond of it. And tth. It affords a most succulent food, at a time (the spring,) when most wanted for every kind of stock. Having remarked the advantages arising from the turnip culture in Europe, I was induced soon after entering on Agricultural pursuits, to give it a fair experiment, notwithstanding the general opinion in this section of the country, that turnips oould not be raised, except on ncirhj cleared and burnt land ; consequently, they were only cultivated in a partial manner, and merely for culinary purposes. In 1817, 1 selected for the purpose an acre in afield, that might be termed worn out land ; that Is to say it would produce a half ton of hay to the acre. The soil, a dry gravelly loam — gave it three ploughings and two harrowings liel'ore drilling — on the 24lh June, manured with twenty-six loads of barn yard and hog's manure, and sowed the common English turnip — gave it a top dressing of about fifteen bushels slacked lime, and fifteen bushels leached ashes. It produce have changed in twelve or fifteen years from a wilder- ness to a well-peopled farniing district. The couQty has been described as high land, well watered, healthy, and particularly well adapted to grazing. "My neighbor, Mr. Crandall, in the fall of.^ 1818, had six ewes. In the spring of 1822 hii little flock had increased to thirty-t-wo, although in November 1819 he had killed two; in No- vember 1820 he sold two and killed seven. In the summer of 1821 he sold seven, and in No- vember following he sold seven and killed three, In November, 1820, he bought one ram, which with one of his ewes, died the following spring. He bought another ram in November 1821. Recapitulation — originally six ; sold sixteen ; killed twelve ; bought two ; lost two ; remain* ing, thirty-two. The increase from the six, FIFTY-FOVR. ''J. Adams bought twelve ewes in September 1821, from which he raised sixteen lambs the following spring. The same year he sold from his f^ockten, and killed six. From the remain- ing twelve he has this spring raised fourteen lambs. One of last years lambs, at one month and one day old, weighed forty-four and an half ,| pounds. " Mr. Follet has three ewes, each of which on the same night this spring, brought him three lambs, all of which are now living and thrifty." A FARMER. riV hi 111. nil .... To Ihe Editor of the J\"ew England Farmer, Sir — I am told the Canada Thistle is travel- ling East, and has already reached Vermont, New Hampshire and a part of Massachusetts. Indeed, I perceive it has found its way on to my own small farm, to my no little dismay. — Will you. Sir, permit me to ask my brother farmers to communicate to the public, through the medium of your paper, all they know about this plant ; and particularly to state the best and most successful method to exterminate it. By so doing, they will much oblige MIDDLESEX. WHOOPING COUGH. A writer in the Fredericklown Herald gives the fol- lowing as a remedy for this distressing complaint. Dissolve 80 grains of salt of tartar in a pint of clear water, add to it 40 grains of cochineal, and sweeten it with loaf sugar. Give a child one year old, one tea spoonful four times a day, with a table spoonful of barley water immedi- ately after. Boiled apples put into warm milk, may be the chief food, if they can be had. This will relieve the patient in two or three days,^ and cure in a week. In the last stage ot this complaint, take the tincture of bark H oz. paregoric i oz. tincture- of cantharides 1 drachm, mix them, and give to a child one year old 15 drops 3 times a day, and so on in proportion to the age of the patient. NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 391 FOREIGN. Votliing new or interesting from the theatre of the mch and Spanish war has transpired since our la^t. ere has heen a late arrival at N. York, (apt. Uoane, 11 Cadiz ; but he brought intelligence from that city in later date than the 15lb of May. Accounts from Andero have been received by Capt. 'J'uuison, as served in our last, to the 20th of May. AVe know hing more of the alleged masterly manoeuvres of 11. Mina, in thrusting himself between the French ny and the frontiers of France ; and we may as well huirn our curiosity from day to day, till authentic .milts of a later date shall be received. \\e might i>iir readers a column or two of t^uesi work, or lit them with a few samples of the buz ! buz ! of -h and American journalists, who make use of inventions to keep curiosity awake and expecta- I uu tiptoe, as well as make news from " the whole th," for the purpose of appearing to know what can- be known. ^^:om South ^menca accounts are confused and con- iictory, every new report showing the fallacy of that II h immediately preceded it. 'J'he last intelligence 11 that quarter was received in New York, by Car- - papers, which came down to the 3Ist of May. iiate that the Columbian squadron, consisting of ^?els, has entered the Laguna of Maracaybo, im- 11" command of Padilla ; and that troops from Rio Hache arrived on the 19th in the line of Gara- . and had there beaten 70t) men belonging to Irs. Gen. Padilla has taken all the sea force of 1 lies in the Ragoon, and keeps him entirely sur- 11. led, and has cat off all his resources. Morales iiiot now escape, or rally any new force. He is iritd out. ■ an arrival at New York in 36 days from Pernam- information has been received that Lord Coch- with the Imperial Brazil fleet of 11 vessels, of I one is a line of battle ship, was blockading St. I lor. Several thousand troops had recently ar- .1 from Lisbon, to recover, if possible, and support dominion of the mother country. St. Salvador is f '^^ented, however, as the only place in the posses- 1 .T in the interest of the royalists ; and the patriots 1 out the country to within a few miles of its gates. DOMESTIC. iu'iberies. — On the 26tli inst. the store of Mr. Flavel I ;- r, at the head of Long W bar', was entered, and a * .V nrokeu open, from which the robbers took a small a 1 ui change. They also carried off a quantity of I Is of different kinds. A reward of ,920 has been c If il for apprehending the offenders. — On the same e uing the printing office of Joseph ^V. Ingraham, in i uklin Avenue, was entered, and the counting room .5 desks broken open. About J40 was taken fio.m 0 of the desks. — The next night, store No.fi, long \ ^rf, was broken open, and goods to a considerable a junt stolen therefrom. ^ulressing Occident. — On the 18th ult. a quantity o-iinpowder, in a wagfon, was exploded in Dover, r 11. By this explosion two men were so badly burnt a to die within twenty-four hours. A third person V s'l much injured that it is feared, if his life is spar- lis sight cannot be restored. The waggon had d in one of the most frequented parts of the vil- :. Some powder from a cask had fallen on the J Hid near the waggon. To this some idle and mis- ;vous boys set fire, in the absence of the owner. '. fire communicated to the straw in the waggon. alarm was given, and the inhabitants hasten.'d to inguish the blaze ; but the owner, informing t!i( m I it contained 24 or 25 casks of gunpowder, checked ir progress. The horses set out with the blazing fgon in the direction of the most frequented street, the citizens turned them towards the river, which y nearly reached. Four or five persons, who had been informed of the contents of the waggon, at- pting to unharness the horses, the powder took fire, injured three of them as above mentioned. One he horses was so much hurt that he died soon after, the other is rendered useless. The waggon was wn to atoms. The coat of the owner, which lay on powder, was blown nearly across the river ; and saddle of one of the horses was blown into the air ire, and lodged on the roof of an adjacent house. The persons burnt had sufficient presence of mind to plunge into the river. The explosion took place near a large brick store, which sustained the priucipal damage. J^~cw Setlkm^nf. — Stephen Austin, a North .\mcrican, has formed a settlement with three hundred families in Texas, and they have solicited the Mexican Congress to be naturalized as citizens of Mexico. The Mississippi. — This river had fallen on the fith ult. at New Orleans, about seven inches, but was still rising at the mouth of the Ohio, and the Upper Coun- try was so inundated as to cause great destruction of the crops. For the distance of six or seven hundred miles up, nothing was to be seen but the tops of trees. J^ew Poem. — Solomon Southwick, Esq. Editor of the Albany Plough Boy, is about to publish a Poem, enti- tled " The Pleasures of Poverty." More 5n.ron Sheep. — We learn that the Hon. Joseph Strong, of South Madley, has recently received from Saxony, bj' way of Hamburg, two Saxon bucks and three ewes, in fine order. The spirit of enterprize and improvement manifested by Mr. Strong and by Messrs. Bates and Shepherd of this town, in introducing into the United States the fine wooled sheep of Saxony, is high- ly creditable to them, and will, we are persuaded, be productive of beneficial consequences to our couptry. Northampton Gatette. A machina for making Pins is in operation at New York, belonging to Mr. H. Whittemore, which makes 30 pins in a minute. — In the British mode only 14 are made in the same time. A new carriage has been invented in Philadelphia, which is propelled by the weight of persons who ride in it. ^-^ Notice is given in the Albany Daily Advertiser, for the benefit of all sturdy rogues and beggars, that a Stepping Mill is about to be erected in that city. Internal Improvement. — The example set by the pop- ulous and powerful state of New York, has given an impulse to internal improvement throughout the United otaLc:?, wiucii deserves every eiicouragement. In Penn- sylvania, Maryland, Virginia, North and South Caroli- na, and in Ohio, canals are in contemplation, and in a course of execution, which cannot fail to increase the wealth of those states, and add greatly to the general prosperity of the Union. The present moment is ex- tremely favorable to these improvements. The monied 1 capital withdrawn from trade, and which, to a vast , amount, must be in the hands of individuals, may be 'advantageously vested in these undertakings; and, I from recent examples in this respect, we are gratified to find there is no lack of means to effect the objects in view. The investment of funds in such a way will be profitable both to the present generation and to pos- terity.— Washington Gazette. Important Discovery. — .Some fine specimens of rich lead ore have lately been found near the surface of the earth, in a field belonging to Mr. Samuel Chase, in White Cceek, in W'Lshiugton county. Pa. More than a dozen hands were employed, for several days, in fur- ther investigating the extent of the mine. The plant, vulgarly called Poteweed, is recommend- ed as a specific and sovereign remedy for the cancer. The recommendations appear to rest on a solitary sx- periment made by a person of color, who by accident threw the leaves of this plant over a cancer to keep off the flies. Finding unexpected relief, he repeated the operation, and was entirely cured. The brine in which cucumbers are preserved, is dis- covered to be fatally poison to cattle and hogs. A gen- tleman in a neighboring town has lost several cattle and hogs in consequence of their drinking it. — Rutland Her. The fly has ceased its ravages in some parts of \'ir- ginia, and the prospect respecting wheat is brighten- ing. A good rye harvest has commenced — and corn looks well. Dear Fruit. — In England, in April, a person gave two guineas for two cherries raised in a hot house. The New York Canal Commissioners have at length decided that the Great Western Canal shall ter.Tiinate at Black Rock, instead of Buffalo, as was at first con- templated. Wm. M'Rte, late of the corps of Engineers ; Lieut. Col. R. Lee, Superintendant of the National Armory at Springfield, Mass. and Capt. G. Talcott, of the Ord- nance Department, have been appointed to explore the Western Country, under the act passed at the last ses- sion of Congress, for the establishment of a National Armory upon the Western waters. (i^ Mistake corrected. — In our paper No. 47, p. 371, is a " receipt for destroying caterpillars," &c. in which it is directed to ^' take equal parts of turpentine and train oil," &c. as an application to destroy those insects. It should hate been " take equal parts of Sjiirits of tur- penfi/if," &c. This mistake is important, for the re- ceipt, as it now stands, would probably prove ineffec- tual. The reader will please to correct it, by inserting spirits of, after the words " parts of," iu the first line of the receipt. DIED, on the 27th June, at his seat near Milford, His Excellency JOSEPH HASLET, Governor of the State of Delaware. In Amherst, on Monday evening last, very suddenly, Rev. ZEPHANIAH SWIFT MOORE, D. D. Presi- dent of the Amherst Collegiate Institution. His disease was an attack of the bilious cholic. PRICES OF COUNTRY PRODUCE, &c. [Revised and corrected every Friday.] ASHES, pot, 1st qual. . . pearl do. . . . BEANS, white, .... BEEF, mess, 200 cwt. . . cargo, No 1, . . . " No2, . . . BUTTER, inspect. 1st qual. " 2d qual. small kegs, family, CHEESE, new milk . . . FLAX FLAX SEED ..... FLOUR, Baltimore, superfine, Genessee Rye, best . . . GRAIN, Rye .... Corn .... Barley .... Oats .... HOGS' LARD, 1st sort HOPS, No 1, LIME, OIL, Linseed, American PLAISTER PARIS . . . PORK, Navy Mess . . . Bone Middlings . Cargo, No 1, , . Cargo, No 2, . . SEEDS, Herd's Grass . . Clover .... WOOL, Merino, full bIood,washed do do unwashed do 3-4 washed do 1-2 do Native .... do Pulled, Lamb's, 1st sort do Spinning, 1st sort PROVISION MARKET. BEEF, best pieces .... PORK, fresh VEAL, LAMB, per quarter .... POULTRY, BUTTER, keg & tub ... lump, best . . . EGGS, MEAL, Rye, Indian, POTATOES, CIDER, liquor, HAY, best ton. bush bbl lb. husl, bbl. buih lb. cask »al. ton. bbl. bush lb lb. doz. bush bbl. FROM D. C 143 00 153 00 00 50 50 00 11 9 13 7 8 85 75 62 50 72 5f; 6! 40 11 f! 25 65 3 00 12 00 14 00 12 00 11 00 2 00 8 55 46 50 4. 38 55 50 1 6 37 10 13 15 12 7.= 7^ 40 50 ton. I 18 00 TO D. C, 145 00 155 GO 1 10 9 75 8 75 7 25 12 10 14 8 9 90 7 87 7 87 4 75 75 CO 70 42 12 12 1 37 00 3 25 12 50 14 50 12 50 11 50 2 25 9 62 60 55 47 40 60 55 10 8 8 50 12 14 16 14 80 45 2 25 22 00 392 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. THE SPLENDORS OF THE SETTING SUN. BY T. C. FESSEKDEN. Sol slowly sinking down the steep of heaven, ^V'ith softcued splendor greels the musing eye ; Resigns his throne to " sober suited even," But decorates, while he deserts, the sky. His noon day beams, insufferably bright, Are now succeeded by a milder blaze, And every slanting filament of light Heav'a's kind and cheering tflluence conveys. Now let me wend my solitary way AVhere groves and lawns present alternate charms ; Gaze on the glories of the waning day, Till night shall fold me in her dusky arms : Mark how the clouds now seem like molten gold, And now like snow banks hcap'd on hanks of snow ; Now dash'd with azure softer hues untold. Now shift and kindle to a furnace-glow ! Compared with these, what is the pride of art ? Your petty palaces, and pigmy spires — The paltry pageants of your noisy mart — And all the city-connoisseur admires ? Should the whole race of man unite as one, ^fo celebrate some glorious festal day. The simple splendor of the setting sun. Would far transcend their most superb display. From the London Museum for April. MR. PERKINS' STEAM ENGINE. We have no recollection of any invention connected with the useful arts having produced 80 great a sensation among scientilic men, as the improved steam-engine of Mr. Perkins. It is not surprising that manufacturers, whose inter- ests are entirely involved in the construction of engines on the lower-pressure system, should look with some degree of scepticism and jealousy towards the bold invention of Mr. P. ; nor that they should raise doubts in the public mind as to the imminent danger to be apprehended from the use of high-pressure engines generally. But in the present case, many scientific men, totally unconnected with manufactures, seemed disin- clined, in the first instance, to admit the possi- bility of the improvements suggested by Mr. P. being reduced to practice. Notwithstanding the superior economy and increase of power in high-pressure engines of the usual construction has been gradually intro- ducing them in various manufactories, where the proprietors take th» precaution of employ- ing only men of intelligence to superintend their concerns ; the enormous increase of power as- cribed to the engine of this gentleman's inven- tion seemed pertectly incredible, until he pro- duced conviction by the actual test of experi- ment. As we have had an opportunity of wit- nessing the operation of this beautiful invention, we shall give our readers as good an outline of its construction as we are enabled without the aid of a plate for reference. Mr. P.'s invention is founded on a most in- vnlualile discovery — that water is capable of enduring an elevation of temperature even to a red heat, or perhaps an indefinite extent, by being subjected to a very high degree of pres- sure ; which pressure, while it permits the ex- pansion of the molecules of the water as ujlaid, prevents their further expansion, or the liquid assuming the gaseous torm of steam. The profound science and resolution, requi- site to manage experiments of this dangerous character, can only be appreciated by those who have devoted some attention to chemical subjects. This gentleman, however, has united to this discovery respecting the laws of expan- sion, the most simple and beautiful application of mechanical science, in the construction ot his new steam-engine, which is briefly as follows : — Instead of the boiler of the ordinary engines, Mr. P. substitutes a cylinder, which he terms the generaloT. This cylinder is made of gun- metal, (the most tenacious and least liable to oxydation) of about three inches in thickness, closed at both ends, with the exception of a valve in the top, opening outwards ; which valve is loaded with weights equal to the state of the pressure from the expansion of the heat- ed water within. The cylinder is placed -ver- tically in a c^'lindrical furnace ; consequently it becomes surrounded on all sides with the tire, and soon acquires a temperature of 400 or 450 degrees Fahrenheit. The production of steam is effected by an injecting-pump throwing in water at one part of the generator, which dis- places through the valve an equal volume of hot water from the generator. The water, at 420 degrees, passing into the induction or steam- pipe, instantly expands into steam, communi- cates with the working cylinder, and gives mo- tion to its piston, which is placed in a horizon- tal direction, for the more convenient applica- tion of its powers to machinery. The recip- rocal action of the piston opens and shuts the apertures of the induction and eduction pipes, by means of rotary valves, as usual in some oth- er engines. But the operation of generating and condensing the steam is effected so instan- taneously by this engine, that the piston per- forms aboot 200 strokes in a minute, when the engine is at full work. Indeed, considering the small extftnt of ourt'acc, tlicpi^nrci uf tliia v-i.^w.^ is almost incredible, the generator containing only about eight gallons of water, and the work- ing cylinder not exceeding two inches in diam- eter, with a stroke of the piston about 12 inches in length. The piston rod gives motion to a crank and fly-wheel similar to other engines. A most decided improvement is also made by Mr. P. in condensing the steam under a very great degree of pressure, and at a temperature of about 320 degrees, and in this state returning into the reservoir for the successive supply of the generator. In consequence of this econom- ical arrangement, the space oecupie per annum, payable at the end of the year — but th who pay within sixty dai/s from the time of subscrib will he entitled to a deduction of Fiftv Cents. 05= No paper will be discontinued (unless at discretion of the Publisher) until arrearages are pai (f^ Complete files from the commencement of paper in August can he furnished. Q^ Agents who procure seven subscribers, and come responsible for the payment, will be entitled t copy gratis, and in the same proportion for a lar number. (Ill JNEW ENGLAND FARMER. PUBLISHED BY THOMAS W. SHKI'ARU, RCKiKRS' BUILDINGS, CO.NGRKSS SI'RKLT, (FOUKTll IXJOI! KROM S'I'ATE STRKKT.) Vol. I. BOSTOxN, SATURDAY, JULY 12, 182: No. 50. FACTS AXU OBSERVAllON'S RFLATlX.i TO GRICULTURE & DOMESTIC ECONOMY BK.RU MADE WITH IIF.MLOCK INSTEAD OF Sl'RL'rn. .Tiidge Peters, of Pennsylvania, informs that P>cer quite as healthy, and miicli more aa^rro- ble than that brewed with the Canada or Hali- ax spruce, is made by tlie inCtision of liemlock iranches, with the materials of which our coni- noii spriico beer is coni|iosed. It has been sul)- tituted for spruce for many years in my family, nil we think it preferable in llavor to the Can- ula or Halilhx spruce." — Ahutuirs of the Peiin. l^riculliiral Hocuty^ vol. i, g. 25. EHEAD, FOOD FOR HORSFS. Judge Peters asserts that "General Pulaski, '■,\ Polish officer who served in the U. S. army luring our revolutionary war) had a favorite ;harg-er, to whom he often gave bread, which he animal seemed to enjoy beyond any other bod. In Holland it is a common practice to ^ive horses rye bread, or baked provender. — The late Shcrifll" Penrose, who had a fine team ■}t' working horses, was in the habit of buying condemned ship bread, as the most nutritious, and profited by its advantages." — ibid, p. 2.36. nU.VG TOO .MUCH rotted good for N0T)II.\C. It was remarked by Judge Peters, that "dur- ing our revolutionary war, the late general P. Schuyler mentioned tliat he had onca purchased 1 (arm from the representatives of an old settler in the then coioiuj of New York. A great in- Jucement was, that some thousands of loads ol 'htng liail tieen accumulating for half an age ; it having been considered as useless, when the land was iVesh, and thrown into a vast ravine. At first the dung was operative, but the lower the mass was penetrated, the more uorthless it became ; till finally it would not compensate the labor and expense of hauling it out on the land." — ibid, vol. ii, p. 291. STONES I'SEFI-L IN SOME SOILS. Stones cannot be picked off too close from sandy or loamy soils ; but a considerable quan- tity of small stones are very useful in clay-loam for preventing its becoming too compact. — Me- moirs of .\". Y. Board of Agriculture, vol. ii, p. 20. different modes of ploughing different soils. Loamy soils can never be ploughed too deep, nor mellowed too much ; but sandy and cla^ soils should merely be turned over, in a flat furrow, and not afterwards ploughed so deep as to break the turf P'or clay if mellowed too much will become mortar in wet weather, and bake in dry, and the sand will become too loose to support vegetation. — ibid. The mode of ploughing sandy soils, accord- ing to the system adopted by the celebrated Duckett, an English farmer. " It was founded on three principles : 1. Ploughing very deep — a due degree of moisture was thus preserved in tis light land, by means of which his crops were flourishing in seasons of drought, which destroyed those of his neighbors. 2. Ploughino- seldom, but effectually, by a trench plough, or what he called a skim-coulter plough, witli which he buried the wcerocess of hoeing ; the corn was planted on the centre of the ridge. The success of this process was very observable through the season; the corn had a touch more rapid and hixuyiant growth, and at harvest yield- ed a considerable more abundant crop than the other parts of the field. "The result is imputed by my informant, to the following causes: 1st. The ground benealh the hills of corn remaining unmoved and cover- ed by the furrows, retained the moisture longer than that which had been turned over and ex- posed to the air and sun ; hence the plants did not sufier by the drought, as did those in other parts of the field. And, 2dly. The turning of the sod, which was permitted to grow between (he rows, up to the hills at hoeing time, fur- nished the roots, as they extended from the ridge, with a new supply of vegetable matter and moisture." Other writers, however, among whom may be mentioned Mr. Curwen, a very celebrated English cultivator, assert that frequent plough- ing and hoeing promotes moisture, and stirring the soil is the best of all remedies against drought. .Mr. Curwen " holds that by constantly turning the vacancies between the rows or beds, in ev- ery direction, he can in dry weather procure tor the plants something like a compensation tor rain, in the evaporation of moisture from the earth. The first day's exhalation from ploughing is' in the proportion of 950 lbs. of water per hour from an acre. The evapora- tion decreases on the second day a third part, and continues to diminish for three or (bur days according to the heat of the weather, whenit entirely ceases ; and is again renewed by fresh ploughing. A field of cabbages were this year set on very strong stiff clay, which previous to 394 xNEW ENGLAND FARMER. their being planted was in high tilth. The se- vere drought which succeeded the rains that fell soon after the setting, baked the ground per- fectly hard. The plants made little or no pro- gress ; they were seen hy a friend of mine, on Alonday, the 2t)lh of May, as I was cainmencing the brv.een buried without parade, and without a tomb, t such a distance from his survivors as not to ontaminate the air they might breathe, or the vater they might use. He will be satisfied with ny plan which shall give Su;cuRrry to the Liv- vc, WITH Respect and Repose for tjie Dead." * Simon Pierre, vir, pius et probu?, Hie sub dio sepcliri voluit, Ne mortuus cuiquam uoceret. Qui vivus omuibus prol'uerat. An American Transtaliou, or Paraphrase. Here lies. Under the pure and breezy skies, The du!t Of Simo7i Peter, tlie devout, the just, Doctor of Medicine. — At liis request He sleeps in earth^s sweet wholesome breast, Rather t.han in a noisome cemetery, Under a church where all the great they bury. 'TwouM be, he said, a sin Past all enduring — A sin which to commit he was unwillin», — Should he, who, while alive, got fame and bread, The sick by curing, Entirely change his hand, and go, when dead, The well to killing. may for the Jirst year, plant corn or potatoes between the hills, if you please ; but I think it better economy not to do it. because you may plough with oxen between the rows, to lighten the ground preparatory lor hoeing, which ought to be done three times during the summer. Vou get no produce the first year, and therefore it is unnecessary to pole them, unless perfectly convenient. In the spring of the second year, you place, to each hill, two poles of about thirteen to fif- teen feet above ground; and as the vine grows you train it to the poles. It is best to hoe thorn three times in the season, and (unless your land is very rich) it will be well to add some manure at the first hoeing. In gathering in the produce, you cut the vine to the ground, and null up the poles, lay them across large wooden bins or boxes, made of rough boards, about ten feet long and five or six feet wide, into which the hojis may be stripped ofi". This work may be performed by women and children. You take them from these boxes in bags, and carry them to the drying kiln, which is generally placed at the side of a hill or rising ground, for the con- venience of taking the hops in upon the cloth or netting, which is stretched upon the sills above the furnace, which is at the bottom, where the fire is made, which ought to be with charcoal, because it gives the hops a much bet- ter flavor than by curing them with a fire made of wood. It is necessary that some careful per- son should attend, constantly stirring the hops with a rake during Ihe process of curing, so that they may be well dried, without discolor- ing them. After you take them from the kiln, tney must be spread (under cover) in an airy room, and constantly moved with a rake, once cr twice a day, for ten or twelve days, when )0U may bag them for market. This hasty, imperfect sketch, is from my own experience only. I presume you may obtain better information from those who have been longer in the habit of cultivating this vine. 1 am, with great respect, Your friend, and ob't servant, LSRAEL THORNDIKE. GoRHA.M Parsons, Esq. white clover is always tender and easily plough- ed or broken np, and all kinds of grain and cori* flourish wonderi^ully well after this grass. As white clover is what some would call nat' ural to this country, that is, as it will after a few years get into land used for pasturing, the llirmers have generally suffered it to grow, bu( have not saved the seed. This is a very great error. When land is laid down for pastuiin;,' and sowed with other gr.iss, it generally hap pens that the grass-seed docs not s|iring well, and the weeds spring up and occupy the ground a year or two before it is covered ivi(h while clover, whereas if the seed is sown, it will pro- duce twice the fiuanlily of seed. The best time for sowing white clover is in the iail tvitli winter grain, but it will do well sown in the spring, and if by reason oi drought it does not spring the first season, it will the next, as ll:e seed is of a very imperishable nature. Tne seed is collected by an instrument ill form of a rake, with long sharp teeth set so near together as to let the flower stalks of the clover slip in between them, but not to allovr the heads to pass. These will be broken oiT and collect<^d on the upper side of the rake, and may be removed from time to time as the rake gets full. When the heads are collected they should be put into a dry 7 lace, and when thoroughly dried they may be threshed on a clean drv floor, and the chuff winnoiVed out. The seed when clean is worth half a dollar a quart, or ^IG a bushel. The instrument for col- lecting will cost but little, and children can do the work, which may be done to very great profit. From the American Farmer. Boston, June 3, 1323. CULTURE OF THE HOP. Mv Dear Sir — I have to apologize to you, for my negligence, in delaying so long to reply to your inquiries respecting the culture of hops. The method which I have practised, has been to prepare the ground in the same manner as is common for raising Indian corn ; after plough- ing it well, to harrow it, and then furrow it cross ways, so as to leave the hills eight feet apart — then to manure in the hill with quite as much as you would do for corn. In the spring, cut your slips from the root of the hop vine, about nine inches long, and lay them upon the manure, three or four in a hill, and cover them with earth about as deep as is usual to cover corn — thus the planting, j:c. is complete. You From the Connecticut Journal. TO FARMERS. The season promises a very great crop of grass, with a more than usual proportion of white clover, which flowers abundantly. It is very desirable that the farmers in New England should use the opportunity which is near at hand, of securing a good supply of the seed of this very valoable grass, which for many per- poses excels all the other grasses. Pasture grounds well stocked with white clo- ver yield more nutriment for cattle and sheep pr. acre than any other, and cows fed on white clover give milk of a superior quality. Besides affording the best pasturage in the world, the white clover may be cultivated to advantage for hay. White clover an;ipated, par- ticularly when they atfect tiie local feelings of difTcrent sections of our country. The growers of wool a> well iis the manufacturers of that ar- ticle should have a proper understanding of their mutual interests, without harboring un- kindly suspicions of each other. The Alexan- dria f:^rmer observes with much justice that " woo! is becoming too important an article not to be entitled to some altcnlion." Agreeably to the request contained in his communication, I shall endeavor to exi)lain the cause of the difference in the price of foreign and domestic wool as sold in this country. This dilTerence is owing partly to the rela- tive fineness of foreign wool, and partly to the superior manner in which it is put up for the market. The imported wool is usually assorted into three or more different grades, with appro- priate marks to designate the bales containing each grade. This wool is thoroughly washed in a weak lye, to scour from it the yolk or grease peculiar to wool in its native state. By this process it loses from 25 to GO per cent, of its weight in the rough state, and of course sells for an enhanced price after the operation. The farmers of the United States are satisfied with merely washing their sheep in the river pre- viously to shearing them. This operation com- monly scours ofT but an inconsiderable propor- tion of the grease, when pcrf.)rined with the Htmost care. When the sheep are washed, as tliey usually are, in a careless and transient manner, and are al'terwards left to run several exandria farmer seems to labour under a mis-; extra expense of the hive was 50 cents — as if""' take. No particular act has been passed by Con- cannot exceed that, unless you have a lock/* gress with the express view of protecting the (which is an improvement) and would probably woollen manufactures, but only for the purpose add 25 cents more. If your correspondent hag of revenue. They are left to struggle against recommended a better way, of course it will be the overwhelming capitals of English manufac- adopted ; on the other hand, if Blake's hive is turers, and to sustain themselves as well as they can under the discouraging effect of excessive foreign importation. Few persojis are aware of the vast sums annually remitted from this country, merely for the articles of cloth and cas- simcres. By the last return of the Secretary of the Treasury for the year ending on the oOth not considered too expensive, help him to sell a right. this notice may B. P pJlC ;!■ ■' From tlie National Intelligencer. COMPOSITION TO PRESERVE \VOOD. Mr. G,\les — It becomes important to have a simple composition, in the application ef which, of September, 1C22, the imported cloths and i t^e durability of bridges constructed of wood cassimeres amounted in value to eight millions four hundred and ninety-one thousand dollars-- being more than a tenth part of all the impor- tations of the country. The numerous manufac- turers in different parts of the U. States, fur- nish a great additional supply of cloths, which are now often preferred at the same prices to foreign cloths. It behoves many of those who are the most violent in fheir prejudice against the skill and workmanship of their fellow coun- trymen, to look well to their tailor for the-origin of the coats they wear. These woollen manufac- tories have in many places ceased operating on account of the depressed state of the business. .\ny proposition therefore that may tend to raise the price of the raw material they manufacture, without at the same time advancing the price of their goods, must tend still more to discourage and to crush them. The value of imported wool during the year ending on the 30th of September last, amounted to thiee hundred and eighty-seven thousand dollars. There can be but little doubt that some protective measures will be adopted by the next session of Congress in favor of this description of manufacture, which is so necessary to the welfare of the nation, should foreign re- sources be suddenly cut off by wars or other causes, and which might afibrd a most extensive and profitable emjiloyment to the agricultural interest. As a branch of national industry, it has been emphatically termed " the wealth of England." It is particularly indispensable to the wants of a climate like ours, whose wintry blasts are so piercing, and whose summer heals are so often succeeded by sudden and unheahhy changes to chilling winds and storms. A. From the American Farmer. HONEY. A'ewburyport^ Mass. May 20, 1 823. J. S. Skinner, Estj. — " A lover of honey," in your paper, No. 9, vol. 5, says " there is a gen- tleman ia the lower part of your native county, who knows much better how to take honey will be extended for a long period of time with- out a roof; whereas, if left exposed to the wea- ther, ten years is their estimated limit of dura- tion. It well deserves the attention of the di- rectors of the city bridge company, for, as the limbers are new, well seasoned, and have suf- fered no apparent decay, the mixture being now put on will be in time to prevent the ope- ration of the rot. I send you two receipts, one for Ihe preser- vation of wood or timbers liable to be injured by the weather ; and one for Ihe roof of a house, to defend it not only from the weather, but also from fire, and I doubt not they will be both ac- ceptable to many of your subscribers, among whom I am ONE Mi DO:; BO'; jiel kil j«ii \t itlii days before they are siieared, their fleeces are [ from bees than the German mentioned in your often saturated with oil to the amount of one half of their weight. It is probably owing to this circumstance that the Alexandria farmer complains that he obtains less tor his wool, of equal fineness, than is paid elsewhere for for- eign wool well cleansed. The account would stand thu'i : Cost of unwashed wool at 40 cents per lb. — 10 lbs. is ;j;i. Loss by washing, say 50 per cent. — 5 lbs. Remaining of washed wool 5 lbs. cost ^4, or 80 cents per lb. As it regards tlie encouragement afforded to our woollen manufactures by Congress, the Al- See N. E. Farmer, No. 49, p. 388. paper, No. 48, vol. 4, and with Icxs expense than Blulcc^s paieni hives ,•" and goes on to state fhe process of taking off the top of the hive, &c. I confess I am not authorised to answer for your numerous patrons, but have the sanity to think a majority would [irefer a hive like Mr. Blake's, that the top could be lifted like a chest cover, and the honey taken in a draw or box, iliat would he no disgrace to any table, if placeil on it, to Ihe method of knocking off the top of a hive, and breaking up a ipiantity of comb, as it must necessarily be broken; to say nothing of dropping the honey, and leaving the hive in a stale of ruin, that would take the industrious little animals a long time to re^iair — even if the Composition for preserving weather-boarding, and i . all other irork liable to be injured by the ivcathrr. Lime, it is well known, however well burnt, will soon become slacked by exposure in the open air, or even when confined in a situation, if not remarkably dry, so as to crumble of itself into powder. This is what is called air-slacked lime, in contradistinction to that which is slack- ed in fhe usual way, by being mixed with water. For the purpose of making the present u?eful composition to preserve all sorts of wood ivorks exposed to the vicissitudes of weather, take three parts of this air-slacked lime, two of wood ashes, and one of fine sand, pass them through a fine sieve, and add as much linseed oil to the composition as will bring it into a proper con- sistence of working with a painter's brush. As particular care must be taken to mix it care- fully, it should be ground on a stone slab with a proper muller, intbc same manner as painters grind their white lead, SiC. But where these conveniences are not at hand, the ingredients may be mixed in a large pan and well beat up with a wooden spatula. Two coals of this com- position being necessary, the first m;iy be rather thin, but the second should be as thick as it caa conveniently be worked. This most excellent composition for preserv- ing wood when exposed to the injuries of the weather, is highly preferable to the customary mode of laying on tar and ochre. It is indeed every way better calculated for the purpose ; being totally impenetrable by water, and so firr from being liable to injury by the action of the weather, or heat of the sun, that the latter, though such a powerful enemy to tarred and ocbred palings, &c. even hardens and conse- quently increases the durability of the present I proposed composition. Another receipt for the rnnf of a hovse, to defend it from the iceathcr and from fre. Take one measure of fine sand, two measures of wood ashes well sifted, three of slacked liaie NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 397 ound up ivitli oil, laid on with a puiiiter's usli, first coat thin, and second thick. I painted on a board with this mixturo, and it llheres so strongly to the bonnl, that it resists (i iron tool, and put thick on a shingle resists ke operation of fire. 1 used only a part ol the fixture ; what remains, continues in an iron »t ; water has lain on the mixture for some te without penetrating the substance, wliich as hard as a stone. 'he Boston Journal of Philosophy and the Arts. The following notice of this new publication, I extracted from an article in the Massachusetts gricultural Repository and Journal, JVo 4, Vol. , signed J. L. — one of the editors. " Not in any degree interfering with that of I'rofessor Silliman, the Journal in question is Intended to introduce to the American public, hose articles in foreign publications devoted to 'hilosophy and the Arts, which may be thought aost useliil. We meet (his stranger with the Qost hearty and cordial welcome. Every one vho reads much, knows that it is impossible in he present state of our country, that the Euro- lean scientitic journals can all of them, or in- leed any of them, be republished here. They ;annot be imported without enormous expense, )wing to the inexplicable policy of laying heavy luties on all works, without discriminating those vbich must have a limited circulation, from hose which are read by the great mass. This ivork is intended to give us a selection from the European publications, of those articles which ire peculiarly interesting to us and adapted to 3ur condition and progress. The Journal is un- ler the management of Dr. J. W. Webster, Dr. I. Ware, and Mr. D. Treadwell, and we cannot have a better pledge of the sound discretion which will be exercised in the selection, than the well merited reputation of its joint editors. We most earnestly hope it will receive that en- couragement which the very attempt deserves, and which is due to the spirited efforts of these scholars, and without which, no scientilic exer- tions can be long successful."' NEW ENGI^AiND FARMER. SATURDAY, JULY 12, 1823. Farmer's and Gardener's Remembrancer. JULY. I.\bnN Corn. — Some farmers delaj' their hil- ling till ha3 ing, in order to husband time, cal- culating to hill their corn when the weather is such that haying cannot be attendeil to with profit. This, however, is not altogether a cor- rect mode of proceeding, for the following among other reasons. 1st. Your corn suffers by this delay, and ten to one the weeds get such a start that your labor is much increased, and its good effects greatly diminished. 2dly. By delaying your third hoeing, or hilling too long, your hilling, haying and harvesting jjress on you all at a time, and you do nothing well, because you do every thing in a hurry, jdly. When hilling is delayed till haying, you gener- ally hoe your corn in wet weather, because such weather is unfit for haying. But if tlie soil is considerably wet, ploughing or hoeing it does but little good, and sometimes causes more harm than benefit. The weeds are not destroy- ed, the land is left in a heavy state, and so tight that the roots of the corn cannot jienetrate it, and spread as they otherwise would. Yon there- lore need line weather lor hoeing as well as for haying. A little dampness, however, will bo less injurious in the former than in the latter kind of business ; ;ind of course it may some- times be proper to leave your hay-field for your corn-field. l!ut if the ground is considerably wet, or there is a prospect of a " ifct sy«//,'' you had better go with your boys, and the rest of j'our " helji'' to cutting bushes. Dr. Deane said, " other circumstances being equal, the wettest weather is best for destroying shrubs by cutting; because the sap vessels of the stumps will continue open the longer ; there will be the greater discharge of sap through them, and the roots will he the more weakened. " Bushes, which grow in clusters, as alder, and some other sorts, may be expeditiously pulled up by oxen ; and this is an efiectual way to subdue them. The expense of it, I suppose, will not be more than that of cutting them twice would amount to." Tiie wetter the ground is the more easy it will be to pull up bushes. — But if you have no bushes which require cut- ting, and the weather is too wet for haying or hoeing, you may find a profitable amusement in Digging and drawing Stones, and making Stone Wall. — Stones can be dug out of the ground much easier when the ground is wet, than when dry. And now, before we forget it, we will state what the Farmers' Assistant says are the best modes of making stone walls. — •' Dig a trench where the wall is to be made, to the depth of about eighteen inches; into this 'hrow all the small and bad shaped stones, until '.he trench is filled ; then on the top of these ouild the wall, in a mason-like manner, to the !ieight of about five feet, and throw the earth (lug out of the trench up against the wall on each side ; and in this way it will stand for a length of time beyond the memor}' of man. If a trench be not dug in this manner, the next best method is to plough deep trenches close on each side of the wall, after it is built, and throw the earth thus ploughed up against tlie wall." Turnips. — It is about time to think of raising turnips ler feeding stock and other winter uses. They require a light sandy loam, made pretty rich and mellow. The seed may be sowed about the middle of July, but it is not necessary to be very precise as to the time. Dr. Deane observed that he had sown them the first week in August, and had a good crop. If sown so late, they generally escape insects, and though they may not grow quite so large, they will, com- monly, be better for the table than those which are sowed earlier. They may be sowed broad cast, or in drills ; and if the former way is chos- en one pound of seed is the common allowance for an acre of land ; but if the fly is to be pro- vided for, the quantify of seed should be a little increased. The Farmers' INIanual says, " To secure your turnip crop decidedly against the fly, steep your seed 12 or 24 houfs before sow- ing, in fish or train oil ; drain off the oil from the seed, and roll the seed in plaister ; this will separate the seed from the glutinous adhesion of the oil, render the casts pure, and enrich your crop." It may be tried, but we doubt its edicacy. The cause does not seem to be ade- quate to produce the alleged effect ; for the mi- nute quantity of oil which might be attached to or imbibed by so small an object ns a turnip seed, could hardly, we believe, communicate any odor or flavor to a plant sprung from such seed, sufficient to preserve it from insects. But if fact says otfierwise, jihilosophy may as well be silent. Experiments repeatedly made, and accurately noted, must, after all, be considered as the only sure basis of improvement.* The seed, when sown broad cast, should be harrowed in with a short fined harrow, and it will be of service to roll the ground with a pretty heavy roller, to prevent the soil from being too loose, break the clods, and level the surface. If is said that top dressing of ashes, or soot strewed over the ground is a good preven- tive against the fly, and other insects, and it will at least quicken the growth of the plants, and the taster they grow the sooner they will be out of danger from the fly. Infusions of el- der, wormwood and tobacco, sprinkled over the ground as soon as the plants appear, have like- \vise been recommended, but perhaps would be thought too troublesome for field cultivation. If, after all, the fly, drought or grasshoppers destroy the young plants, it will not cost much to harrow and sow the ground a second time, and those evils may thus, perhaps, be avoided. Although some people will continue to raise turnips according to the broad cast method, yet there is no doubt but these roots may be grown to much greater advantage in drills or rows. — The following from the " Memoirs of the Board of Agriculture of New York," contains direc- tions for raising turnips in the drill method, which have been tested by the experience and recommended by the writings of Mr. Feathers- tonhaugh, of Duanesburgh, N. Y. a celebrated practical and scientific agriculturist. " The soil being turned up in the fall, and exposed to the winter, is easily broken down in the spring, and by the first of June got into good tillage. .Advantage being taken of the first settled wea- ther, deep furrows, three feet apart, are open- ed, and well cleaned out with the expanding horse hoe.t Fresh dung well sodden down is carted info these furrows ; some prefer to spread it at random on the surface, and rake it into the furrows. When the work is sufficiently ahead, these are covered with the plough, and become small I'idges or ridgelets three feet apart. J By the time the field is dunged, and covered, the turnip drill, preceded by a light roller to flatten the ridgelets, is introduced. A steady hand will sow five acres in a day. When the crop gets into a strong rough leaf, the hoers are introduc- ed to thin the plants, which are left about eight inches apart. These being suffered to fix them- selves well in the soil, and their healthy leaves extending over the surface of the ridgelets, a light one horse plough then takes a slice from each side of the ridgelets, and throws it into the furrow. When this operation has killed the weeds, the expanding horse hoe is again introduced, which splits the soil in the furrow, * Bordlcy's Husbandry tells us that " It is said to be a successful method of avoiding damage to young tur- nip plants by flics, to mix every two pounds of seed with a quarter of a pound of sulphur in tine powder, to stand ten or twelve hours ; and then sow the seed." It might be well to try this receipt, but we doubt its efficacy, for the reasons before mentioned. t A common horse plough will answer by being run back in the same furrow. I The Farmers' Assistant says 27 inches. 3<»8 NEV/ ENGLAND FARMER. and returns it to llie r!c)e;elets.* If weeds ap- pear ag-ain this operation should be repealed, and it is better for the croj) if it be repeated two or three time?; for stirriiiij tlic soil is the life of drill husbandry and row culture. It de- stroys successive crops of weeds, which other- wise would have remained in the soil; disturbs and destroys slugs and insects, and by producing- more perfect tillage, permits new fibres to ex- tend themselves in every direction, and opens the soil in the best way to the influence of the atmosphere.'' Dr. Deanc highly approved of the drill or row culture for turnips, and observed, " For two years past 1 have sown turnips in the drill way, in the poorest part of my garden, where a crop of pease had grown the same summer, and never had better turnips. They were suf- IJciently large for the table, though they grciv so near together in the rows that the roots crowded each other, and were not sown earlier than abo\it the tenth of August. The earth was hoed into rilied, that the ordinary walk of the two horses by which the carriage is drawn gives to the scythe a very rapid hor- izontal motion. The machinery is placed so far towards the right side of the carriage, that the horses walk just at the edge of the grass. On the car is a seat for the driver, and a chest for the whet-stone and other implements needed in the process. A sclf-.sharpcner is occasionally used in putting the scythe in order. '■• The patent horse-rake of Messrs. Pennock k. Pierce, if possible, is a more ingenious and curious instrument than the scythe. It is very simple in its construction, and every one on seeing it is surprised that it was not sooner in- vented. The head of this rake is about ten feet long, and the teeth, which are about three feet in length, are inserted in both sides hori- zontally. To the head, at suitable distances, the traces of the horse are fastened, and behind is a handle by which the machinery is directed. When the rake is filled with hay, it is made to revolve by a slight effort of the person tending it, and the alternate teeth are filled. So easy and quick is the process of clearing and shil'ting its sides, that the horse keeps upon a fiist walk across the field without stopping. In this way, the hay is rapidly raked into wind-rows, which hy turning the rake are rolled into heaps. By means of this improvement, a man and one horse will rake twenty acres in a day. Mr. Peirce assured us that he could collect it as fast as several hands could cart it from an adja- sent field to the barn. With some slight mod- ifications it is capable of being applied to the collection of grain into sheaves. It is partic- ularly useful when a shower is seen rising, and the farmer is in haste to secure his hay or grain. The whole expense of this instrument, including the patent and the right to use it forever, is twelve dollars." These machines have been recommended by the certificates of Dr. Mitchell, and several other gentlemen of science and respectability. From the Esses Rtgister. CF.LEDR.\TION AT SALEiM, FOURTH .UIl.Y. What gave peculiar novelty to the pert'orm- ances in the Meeting-llouse, on Friday last, was the novel, interesting and candid remarks of the venerable Col. Pkkering, preparatory to the reading of the Declaration of Independence. The Col. commenced by stating, that he had acceded to the call of his fellow-citizens to read the Declaration of Independence, in order that he might lay before them some interesting in- formation on the subject, in liis possession. He first commented on the propriety of anniversary celebrations, and their early origin with the feast of the passover observed by the Jews, in commemoration of the deliverance of their olT- spring from that destruction which overwhelmed the children of their oppressors. He then gave a concise statement of the motives which led to that declaration, and the measures that were taken first to avert its necessity, and next to prepare for its hearty adoption and support. — That petitions and remonstrances were exhaus- ted, without producing any suspension of th^ujJ determination of the arbitrary council of EnyL;)! land, to " bind us in all cases whatsoever, with-Lb out our consent." That these, though unavaiUijc ingat St. James, had their effect at home. ThaXn then the public mind was gradually prepared for' this decisive measure, and foreign auxiliarit sought. That no foreign state was willing ii aid lis, unless with the view to lessen the powei, of Great Britain, and that there.*bre every step short of Independence, would have precluded i foreign assistance. The Col. then proceeded tOi give an account of the manner in which this sub. ject was introduced into Congress : He stated that there was no man living able to give .soh, good an account of it as the venerable JoHKec Adams ; that he had written to him in the last August on the subject, and he now gave the fads obtained from him. The motion which produced the Declaration, was made on the 10th of June, 1776, by Richard Henry Lee, from Virginia, the largest of the Thirteen United Colonies, who was authorised to make it by the votes of his constituents, the Assembly of Vir- ginia. Mr. Adams seconded the motion, Massa- chusetts being at that time the second state. The Col. here alluded to the ability and zeal of President Adams in carrying through this mea- sure. He observed of him, that he possessed that ' BOLD .4.\D DARtXG SPIRIT,' without which no revolution could be successfully accomplished. A committee of five was appointed on the sub- ject, consisting of Mr. Jeffersox, Mr. Adams, Dr. Frankli.n', IMr. Sherman, and Mr. Livingston. .Mr. Jefferson, though the youngest on the com- mittee, was chairman, he having one vote more than Mr. Adams. That Mr. Jefferson had come into Congress with great reputation as a writer — and although he was a silent member of that body, yet he was most useful on committees, and felicitous in his writin'gs. That Mr. Adams had made use of every exertion to procure votes lor Mr. Jefferson, in order to place him at the head of the committee. That the committee met and appointed Mr. -Jefferson and Mr. Adams a sub-committee. That Mr. Jefferson urged on Mr. Adams to write the Declaration, and Mr. Adams urged Mr. J. to do it. That Mr. Jeffer- son at last consented, and the next day submit- ted the original draft, as it was presented to Congress. That Mr. Adams thought the only objectionable part of it was that in which Geo. 111. was styled a tyrant — that he considered that as too personal — that he only considered him such ofhcially, and that he was deceived and misled by his Cabinet. He did not, however, state any objection to Mr. J. as it was after- wards to be submitted to the whole committee, and the feelings and temper of the people were fully up to the tone of the declaration. That he thought some of the most beautiful passages were afterwards stricken out by Congress, par- ticularly that in which it was enumerated as one of the evils of our Colonial state, that the Parliament had refused to allow the colonies to prohibit the importation of slaves, and had thus entailed upon them the evils of a slave popula- tion. The sub-committee afterwards reported to the committee, who did not suggest a single alteration or amendment. The committee thea reported tbe Declaration to Congress on the 1st of July, 1776 ; it was discussed and amended oa the 2d, 3d, and 4th of July, and adopted on the latter day, about a quarter of the reported De- NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 399 ^ ration having been stricken out. Mr. Pi«k- t n^' diflered from Mr. Adams in opinion, and tJiiLTlit the Declaration improved by the a- iiiJments. In this opinion oCCol. Pickering's V most readily concur, as we consider nearly leiy alteration made by Congress, with the (!■< ption of those in relation to slavery, as a ] i! amendment to that instrument. Blost oi \c ideas in the Declaration had been repeat- I ly maintained in previous papers, especially 1 a Declaration of Rights in Massachusetts, lined in a lucid interval by James Otis, and u, led and polished by Samuel Adams. That cat credit, however, was due to Mr. Jeffer- 11 lor the ability of the compilation, and wc 'artily accord the same degree of credit to e candor of Col. Pickerina:- FOK THE NEW E.NUl.AND FARMER. Mb. Editor — 1 have never been a believer that in U was to be found a mean of curing Hay to the ex- nt "which has been advocated. But I have been con- need, and several years have confirmed me in the actice, that the application of a peck of salt or more a tea of hay is very beneficial. 1st. It tends to check an undue degree of fermenta- 3n when the hay is not quite made enough. 2d. I have found the hay I have salted less apt to •eak and lose its head and most nutritive parts, par- cuKirly clover. 3d. It has come from the mow in the spring much ore green and saleable. 4lh. Much less dust or dry mould has appeared than is been the case in all other large parcels of hay here no salt has been used. The writer is now applying it in the manner herein afed ; but more particularly to his clover. If it does ell in this neighborhood, how much better must it do here salt is necessary to the thrift of cattle, and adds, ■r want of a saline atmosphere, so much to the value rthe manii-e of the stock. W. DorckesUr, July^ 1823. do we hear any thing more of Gen. Mina's masterly maiiuBuvre in gaining the rear of Money's army. In- deed, the only thing certain about these reports is that no reliance is to be placed on them, and we must wait till Time, the Great Teacher, shall condescend to sub- stitute rcafi.t]i for a mass oi' conjeclurt^ the only food for curiosity with which, at present, he condescends to' gratify us. From Portugal. — An arrival at Portsmouth from St. Ubes, has brought Portuguese accounts to the 30th of May. These announce a revolt in Portugal against the constitutional system. They say that a certain Brig. Gen. Sampayo, with his regiment, revolted in the neighborhood of Lisbon, wrote a letter to the Brig- adier Governor of arms, announcing his intention to bid ■' farewell to anarchy," and that the infant Don Miguel, one of the sprigs of royalty, had "quitted the paternal roof, and gone to join himself with this hand- ful of deluded men." They state, however, that the '■ governmeut has taken the most efficient means to stop the progress of the disorganizing faction. The troops continue true to their oaths, and obedient to their general, in whom they have the utmost confi- dence." Other accounts state that the Portuguese ministers had resigned. Indeed the reports are so con- tradictory from Portugal, as well as Spain, that they do not present a foundation on which a yankee of any prudence v/ould hazard a giuss ; and no one can say either what is or what is to be in Spain or Portugal. The usual channels of intelligence seem to be filled altogether with such false and contradictory reports, that they are no more to be regarded than the tattle of a superannuated gossip, who dreams with her eyes open, says every thing '■ which comes uppermost," and believes every thing she says, because she has said it. 'Ihc New York Commercial Advertiser states that Mr. J. Wilson, of this tity, has been robbed of his pocket book, containing nearly 2000 dollars, between Philadelphia and New York. The Providence .lournal states that seven girls, in the factory of Mess. Greene, Tillinghast, i: Co. near Wick- ford, from the 22d to the 28th ult. both days included, on 14 looms, wove liDlO yards of sheeting. Krralma. — In our paper of June 28, page 379, in the article with the signature " Herdsman," for meal-bags, read meal boxes. PRICES OF COUNTRY PRODUCE, &ic. [Revised and corrected every Friday.] FOREIGN. PROGRF.SS OF THE FRE.^CH IN SPAI.V. Paris dates to the 21st, and Portuguese to the 30th f May, have been received. The Paris accounts state hat the French in Spain are advancing to Madrid with carcely a show of opposition. On the 15th of May, hey tell us, the Head Quarters of the Duke ];)'Angou- eme were at Aranda, which is about 7j miles north rom Madrid. Gen. Obert was at Almazan, about 63 oiles north west from Madrid. This commander, they ay, is perfectly well received every where, and com- nunicates with the Royalist Gen. Bessieres, who has akeu 20U men, the same number of muskets, and four aunon from Ballasteros. The latter is retiring on Va- encia, and suffers losses by desertions. On the tlth, Marshall Oudinot's vanguard proceeded from Vallado- Id to the Douro, where as well as at all other places, ae was received with lively enthusiasm. Gen. Moril- (o's army, according to these accounts, was reduced to about 170 soldiers. Marshall Money's troops were full of ardor. Mina's corps is little less than annihilated; and the Baron D. Errolles is in pursuit of him. The Baron is of opinion that if Mina is vigorously pursued, his destruction may be accomplished in eight or ten days. The above is the substance of Paris accounts, by which, after making suitable allowance for " false facts,'' we learn no more than that on or about the middle of May, the French were proceeding onward, without encountering much opposition. In this there is nothing remarkable, because neither party antici- pated much serious fighting till the French had arrived at Madrid, when the Spaniards were to " cry havoc, and let slip the dogs of war !" The Paris dates do not come down to the 20th May, about which time, accord- ( iug to news received by Capt. Tunison, a great battle was fought, and the French were defeated. Neither DOMESTIC. The Fourth of July.— This National Festival has been generally celebrated, in various parts of the Union, with the customary demonstrations of joy and festivity. An account of the Processions, Orations, Odes, Toasts, &c. &c. indicative of the sentiments and feelings which inspired the votaries of Independence, would fill all our columns, and still much that is mem- oiable would be left untold. 'We must therefore ref^T our readers to other sources for details on this subject, and merely remark that judging from what we have seen and heard, we are led to conclude that the Festi- val of Freedom was never celebrated in a manner more worthy of the events it was intended to commem- orate, or the principles it was designed to inculcate and hold in perpetual remembrance. Fatal Accident. — The exhibition of fire works at Sa- lem, on the evening of the 4th inst. was attended with a very melancholy event. A chest placed under the stage, containing about 300 rockets, was accidentally set fire to by a rocket, which having been thrown from the stage, glanced towards the chest, and communicat- ed a blaze to the rockets within, which took ditferent directions. Many persons, principally boys, who had placed themselves very near the stage, were injured by tke explosion which followed, and some fatally. Three boys have since died of the wounds received by this dreadful accident. Others were wounded, but it is thought that they will recover. Caution to Parents. — The New York Commercial Advertiser states that an infant of about nine months was left by its parents in the care of its sister about seven years old, who gave it laudanum to quiet it, and its death iu a few hours was the consequence. On Tuesday, June lOth, before the Horticultural In- spection Committee, in Ne%v York, were exhibited two fine Cauliflowers, measuring 26 inches ; six summer lettuces of a fine new kind, the largest of which weigh- ed 2 lbs. 6 1-2 oz. ; four fine compact lettuces of a new kind, and a fine plant in bloom of White Moss Rose, supposed to be the first that has flowered in this coun- try. John M'Lean, late Commissioner of the General Land Office, has been appointed, by the President of the United States, to be Postmaster General, vice R. J. Meigs, resigned. Geo. Graham is appointed by the President to be Commissioner of the General Land Office, vice John M'Lean resigned. ASHES, pot, ist qual. . . . pcai'l do BEANS, wh^i. BEEF, mess, JPO cwt. . . . cargo, No 1, . . . . " No 2, . . . . BUTTER, inspect. 1st qual. . " 2d qual. . small kegs, family, CHEESE, new milk .... FLAX . FLAX SEED FLOUR, Baltimore, superfine, Genessee- .... Rye, best .... GRAIN, Rye Corn Barley Oats HOGS' LARD, 1st sort . . HOPS, No 1, LIME, OIL, Linseed, American . . PLAISTER PARIS .... PORK, Navy Mess .... Bone Miiidlings--. . . Cargo, No 1, ... Cargo, No 2, ... SEEDS, Herd's Grass . . ■ Clover WOOL, Merino, full blood,wafhed do do unwashed do 3-4 washed do 1-2 do Native .... do Pulled, Lamb's, 1st sort do Spinning, 1st sort PROVISION MARKET. BEEF, best pieces .... PORK, fresh ...... VEAL, . LAME, per quartei' .... POULTRY, BUTTER, keg & tub ... lump, best EGGS, MEAL, Rye, Indian, POTATOES CIDER, liquor, HAY, best, U. C. D. C. ton. 140 OU 143 00 150 00 153 00 bush 1 00 1 10 bbl. 9 00 9 50 P. 00 8 50 6 75 7 00 lb. 11 12 9 10 13 14 7 8 S 9 bush 85 90 bbl. 7 75 7 87 7 62 7 87 4 50 4 75 bush 70 73 58 60 6!! 70 40 42 lb. 9 10 8 12 cask 1 26 1 37 gal. 65 00 ton. 3 00 3 50 bbl. 12 00 12 50 14 00 14 50 12 00 12 50 11 00 11 .50 bush 2 00 2 25 lb. !J 9 55 60 46 50 50 55 45 47 37 40 55 60 50 55 lb. 8 10 / 8 fi 8 37 50 10 12 13 14 16 18 doz. 14 15 bush 75 75 80 45 47 hbl. 1 5{ 2 25 ton. 18 0( 22 00 TERMS OF THE FARMER. 0:5= Published every Saturday, at Three Dollars per annum, payable at the end of the year — but those who pay within sixty days from the time of subscribing will be entitled to a deduction of Tift's Cents. (^:!j= No paper wUl be discontinued (unless at the discretion of the Publisher) until arrearages are paid. 0:5" Complete files from the commencement of the paper in August can be furnished. (t:^ Agents who procure seven subscribers, and be- come responsible for the payment, will be entitled to a copy gratis, aud in the same proportion for a larger number. 400 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. The following Ode, written by a member of the I Washington Society, in Boston, was sun; at the late celebration of Independence, by Mr. Benj. Brigham. We think that the birth day of our National Freedom, fruitful as it has been, and we hope ever will be, in similar productions, has rarely exhibited any thinj of the kind of equal excellence. ODE. Air — " To Liberty's tnraplur'd sight. ''^ When first with ray divinely bright. Forth btara'd fair freedom's western star, O'er ocean, wave, and mountain height, Its heavenly radiance gleam'd afar ; Admiring nations gaz'd with awe. And monarchs veil'd their dazzled eyes ; Earth, sea and sky enraptur'd raw, And bade their swelling anthem rise. Star of the brave, the f^rtat and free .' Hail .' glorious star of Liberia^ . Then rousing from his rocky rest, Stem Independence grasp'd his spear, And toss'd on high his haughty crest, And bade his glittering banner rear. Earth trembled 'neath his giant tread ; Shook, pale Oppression's gloomy hold ; The red eyed Despot quak'd with dread. As far his lofty chorus roli'd. Wkerc'eT thou dau-nest all are free 1 Hail! glorious star of Liberty. " Columbia's Sons arise I" he cried, " To glory, fame and honor rise T' Each cavern'd rock and hill replied, In echoes to the list'ning skies: They rose in virtue's armor bright, Fierce on their tyrant foes they spruiig While cheering on the patriot fight, On high the heavenly minstrels sung ; The star of Freedom shines o'^er thee .' Columbia thine is Liberty .' >' .As rolls the torrent to the main, Resistless from the mountain side, Resolv'd to rend th' Oppressor's chain, They burst upon his banner'd pride : With firmer step each Wariior trode ; A surer mark each weapon found ; Each breast with holier fervor glow'd ; As proudly rose the thrilling sound. Bright harbinger of victory .' Hail .' radiant Star of Liberty ! Thu?, on to glorious fame they rush'd : With vict'ry's wreath their brows were crown'd ; And War's dread tempest, now, is hush'd, Now, Peace, mild beaming, smiles around. Adown the peaceful vale, no more The cannon's voice of carnage tells ; But far along our length'ning shore, Th' inspiring note of triumph swells. All hail ; Columbia, great and free, Bltst home of Peace and Liberty. And while our bosoms bound with joy, Forget not we the mighty dead ; Let mem'ry breathe a mingled sigh. For those who for our freedom bled. Pledge deep to them the sparkling bowl ; Let their high praise in song arise ; Wake the far echoes of the pole. In strains aspiring reach the skies. Brave jiatriot band, we raise to thee, Tli" exulting voice of Liberty.' From the Natioiial Intelligencer. ROTARY PRINTING. In one of the letters from London concerning Perkins' improvements on the Steam Engine, there is an incidental mention of an invention "for printing calicoes, by means of an engraved cylinder, \vhich passing over the cloth, performs the work that was formerly done by manual la- bour." It is so singular as to be worth remark, that, more than twelve months ago, Mr. Peter Force, printer and bookseller, of this city, disclosed to the writer of this the principle of an invention precisely such as that now ascribed to Mr. Per- kins. Mr. Force was at that time engaged in having a model made, and perfecting his inven- tion— which work, it appears, he soon after ac- complished : for we discover, from the official printed list of patents issued during the year 1822, that on the '22d day of .'higust last, Mr. Force obtained a patent for " an improvement in the machines lor printing paper, cloths, books, &.c." We yesterday saw the specification of this patent, wherein the scope of the invention is thus pre- fixed to the description of it: There are six ditlerent machines for comple- ting the improved paper hangings, calicoes, let- ter-press printing, &:c. 1st. For laying on the ground work all of one colour. 2d. For do. of different colours. 3d. For laying on ail the different colours, at the same time where they are separate. 4th. For laying on all the different colours at the same time where they are interspersed. 5th. For laying on all the diflerent colours at the same process, where they are intermixed. 6th. For printing books, &c. both sides of the paper, Sic. at once. We do not mean to detract an iota from the merits of Mr. Perkins' invention, whatever they may be valued at, much less from his universal- ly-acknowledged skill in Mechanism. It is no more than just, however, that this useful inven- tion of our townsman should be made known, to the end that he lose neither the merit or profit of what is undoubtedtly his original invention. licved here. If it is heard that a man owns a thousand acres of land, and fifty negroes, ill. imagined that there is no end to his wealth.— But it is not considered that out of fifty slaves. on account of old age, childhood, disease, and other causes, scarcely ten or twelve able bodied laborers can be found, whose services are to I regularly depended on. Now if the plant grows corn enough to feed all his dependen and tobacco sutfirient to fill fifteen or eightet. hogsheads, he is thought to do exceedingly well. This tobacco, at an average price, wii produce from one to two thousand dollars. Thii is all the planter has to pay taxes, blacksmith'i and doctor's bills, the expense ot clothing, am every thing else in the way of family expendi- ture, where there are perhaps sixty persons.— The truth is, that many planters in Xirginis begin to feel that the present mode of cultivat ing the soil is so expensive, and the price oi produce so low, that a change will soon beconu necessary and inevitable. Free labor costs les and produces more than that of slaves. Henc« while Virginians are nominally rich, they an actually poor; and will be so until some on( shall be wise enough to devise a plan for chang ing the state of things among us. When shal it once be ! NEW ENGLAND AND VIRGINIA. Extract- from the Journal of a Virginia traveller in New England. In the excursion from which I have just re- turned, I had an opportunity of looking more closely than I had done before into the domestic and agricultural economy of the New England farmers. And 1 have been astonished to observe how much less house-keeping and the cultivation of the soil costs here, than they do among us. A family here, which employs one house servant, lives full as much at ease, as one in our part of the country that employs four — with only this special exception, that, in Virginia, the unstress has a great deal the mo-t trouble. Consider the dillereiice, as to expense, between employing four iin[)roductive hands and only one ! I have before remarked that the farms here are small. They are generally cultivated by the proprietor and his sous. And if the whole product is less than on the large plantations in Virginia, the surplus is proportionably much greater ; and the expense of clothing incom- patibly less. I have no doubt but that the nett prolits of farming in New England are greater than iu Virginia. Ijut this will scarcely be be- An Irishman who had never fired a gun in hi- life, took it into his head to go a shooting. I was not long before he saw a little wood pecke engaged in perforating a small cherry tree Pat crept slowly as far as he durst without alai ming the bird, and after making two or thre> circumbendibusses around the tree, as the littl : feathered mechanic performed a similar revolc ' tion round its trunk, he tho't he had at last go ' a chance for a shot; so shutting both eyes fas. I he blazed awaj'. The bird, more scared tha j hurt by the attack, took to bis wings, while Pa sure as he could be that he had bro't down hi game, commenced searching for it among th weeds at the root of the tree. As he was thu engaged, a frog started up before him and be gan hopping around the tree. Pat in an ecstac. i of joy at having found as he supposed the objec I of his search, soon seized poor croaker, ani while he eyed his lantern jaws and frecklei I skin with somewhat of an amazement, exclaim : ed, " Arrah, now, but sure you were a prott; {bird before I shot all the feathers oflTyou." A gentleman mistaking a very small lady whi was picking her way over a dirty channel, fo a very young one, snatched her up in his arms and landed her in safety on the other side, whei she indignanly turned up a face, expressive o the anger of fifty winters, and demanded why hi dared to take such a liberty ? — •• Oh ! I hum biy beg your pardon, said the gentleman, I ban only one amend to make" — and he again caiigb her up and placed her where he had first fouDt her. . A distinguished member of the New-York con vention of 1821, after ending an elaborate speech and supposing his chair to be behind him (whicl unfortunately was not the fact) while in the ac of seating himself, came to the floor rather at ruptty. .Vnother member, not noticing the mi» take, rose immediately to reply to the speech but was silenced by a member calling out, " or der, order, there's another gentleman on ik 'ijloor already !"' ]NEW ENGLAND FARMER. Vol. I. PUBLISHED BY THOMAS W. SHF.rAlUi ROGEKt-' HUILUli\GS, CO.NXiKLSS STIU'.KT, (KOUKI'H UOOR FIU)M STATE STRL.fT.) No. 51. IDSTON, SATURDAY, JULY 19, 182.3. From the second volume of Memoirs of the Board ol Agriculture of the State of New York. OBSERVATIONS On the most economkid method, by xihich farmers in this country^ may supply themselves u'lth a sufficient supply of succulcrd fted^ for their stock iji the Tiiinter season. ] [By Levi McKean, of Dutchess.] Every man who has read English books on husbandry, is at first struck with the important nse tht-y make of their turnip crops in that country, and eagerly engages in the cultivation of an article, the general growth of which has formed an important era in tlie annals of agri- culture in that country. But alas, how often has the American farmer been disappointed in the result of such experiments as have been mos There is nothing in which I consider the judiciously made, by reason of the difl'erence of American farmer to be so far behind the best [soil and climate European cultivator, as in the suitable provision of green or succulent tood, for his stock in win- ter. It is to this deficiency, that we mus^ as- cribe the loss that we so often hear farmers complain of, when they have attempted to make calculations on the expense of fattening of heef and mutton, in the winter, on artificial feed: or, the expense of keeping dairies, from No- vember to iMay, all of which time cows shJuid have some rich feed, other than dry ha;, or they cannot afford any protit to the farmer. For my part, 1 have long ago learnt fromex- perience, that to fatten beef or mutton ; or keep a dairy; or to keep ewes to rear lambs forthe market, on corn, or other farinaceous feed, i^th- out green or succulent food, must always diiap- point the hopes of every farmer, who will hke the trouble to count the cost of any experinent he may make in that wa\'; and unless the far- mers of this country, can succeed in fingng some green article or root, to feed with his lay and corn, he can never make a calculation of prolit on his winter's feeding. ■ This subject has long occupied the atten('OB_ of all those farmers, who calculate the co.^^' o' the article they send to maiket, and K'S led them, with much solicitn-i"e, to endeavor to find some article to cultivate for this purpose, ■■without any one, as 1 ielicve, having yet been able to come to am- practical conclusion, as to what article was iest adapted to our climate and soil, or whecher any article can be found to answer the purpose. Without system, no business can succeed, ani a systematic farmer should always calculate on results, that would prove as certain as possible, especially in this country, where, if he fails in the growth of a crop of the article on which he has made his principal dependence, for his win- ter feed, he cannot supply the lack by purchase, without giving so extravagant a price, that his The season of sowing field turnips /or stock, n this climate, should be from the 10th to the 15th of July, which is in the very midst of our larvest, and is a very hurrying season, when abor, is not only very high, but difficult to be obtained. But notwithstanding these difficulties, I some years ago fallowed a good field of about {{''ht acres, and sowed it with the different kinds if turnip seed that are now most approved of in England, all of which came up well, and pro- gressed with great promise, until the roots were of the size of a walnut, when the grasshoppers vent into my turnips, and entirely eat them up. The next year I did not sow any, but in the 'ear 1817, 1 sowed a very large field, that did ivell as to growth, but when it became fall, they had to be drawn and housed, or put in pie, which was a great labor; and in the winter, when they were to be fed to my sheep, they were to be unhoused, cut and fed in troughs : and long before spring, when they were most wanted', they became poious and light,, and in fact, were a very espensive feed for my sheep, :.i pivijonion to iheir value as an article of food. Trom which I thon concluded, that even when the common turnip grows well, they are not a profitable article for feeding, unless we could feed them on the ground, as is the practice in England ; hut which, from the severity of our winters, we cannot do. I have since several times tried the common turnip, but without pro- fit, or any other satisfaction than was derived from the above experiments. I have also, for the last four years, raised the ruta baga with some success, and have used them as a feed for every description of stock, with considerable satisfaction, especially after mid-winter, before which time, they do not ap- pear to be properly ripened for use. But there is a great deal of labor about this crop, that must also be done in a very hurrying season of stock will hardly, in the spring, pay for the the year. That the result of ail my experi wintering: or he must force his stock into mar- ments hav ket, lean, in the fall, when for the want of re- gular fairs for the sale of stock, which we much want in this country, he must generally sell at such prices as to sacrifice his summer's feeding. The above considerations, have rested on my mind with such weight, that for several years i have been led to make experiments to supply myself with the necessary store of feed, none ol which have been satisfactory, either by reason of the great labor that most of the artificial crops require, at seasons when all the labor of the country is necessarily otherwise engaged; e convinced me, that in this country, where every thing is so dissimilar from that of England, that no English theory will do for the American farmer. In England, the chief expense of the farmer's :rop, consists in tythes, direct and assessed taxes ind rent. The cost of labour is nominal, in :omparisnn with what it is in this country. While here, thank Gon, there is no tythe, the rent is small, and the taxes are nominal; and abor is every thing. Therefore, in England, t becomes the interest of the farmer to use jvery means in his power, to obtain the great- er by reason of the uncertainty of the crop ex- 'est possible products from a given quantity of pcrimented; or its unfitness, when produced, Hand, by laying out much labor on it. But in for feed in this climate. Ilhis country, it is the interest of the farmer, so to husband his land, that he ensure the greatest possiMe returns for his labor. On this ground of calculation, 1 have finally concluded, aflor this yoi'.r, (in which I have laid out considera- ble, on jirepaiAtion for turnips, that owing to drought, have entirely failed,) to give up my turnip and potaioe crops; for all the objections that lie against he one, are equally applicablr. to the other, cx;epting that the potaloc is the best feed, when i)n -luced, but the expense of producing a crop of potatoes is veiy great. And while 1 have come to this conclusion, I must confess 1 have been at a loss to find a crop to substitute for tnem. It has so happened, that wlionever I have riv sided in cities, it has been as a boarder, and not as an housekeeper; and although I had often seen the .Jcr■= ^iJ "01 exceed probaniiity, in expecting 3?,C} tons from seven acres, when planted for an ordinary cro[i, which would be iJjtJiG bushels of artichokes. Another English writer es imates an ordinary crop of artichokes to be eqial to 130 Winches- ter bushels per acre, when planted, without the expense of manure. He also considers this crop to possess great merit, iron its certaintij upon any soil, and its not rer^uirin^ manure, and being lironf against frost. I shall now endeavor to compare this crop, as to its value, with potatoes. Arthur Young has given us several courses of experiments, made by himself, on a good ^oil, with ditfercnt .sorls of potatoes, one of w hicli produced \M bushels, without manure, and the rest, that were highly manured, with diflVrent sorts of dressing, and at great expense, produc- ed from 110 to G-OO bushels lo the ;'cre. Those producing the least crop, were manured with 30 loads of yard compost, and tliosc producing the most, were two lots which yielded exactly alike, one parcel being manured with G leads of night soil, and the other with 10 loads of bones. .\nd in another course of experiments, probably made the ne\t year, on the same ground, with the same sorts of potatoes, and the same kinds and quantity of manure ; he obtained, without manure, HObushcU; with the y.ird compost, I 10 bushels; from the night soil, 300 bushels; and from the bone manure, 010. And two other experiments, in dillerenl parts of England, have given i-esults froni the same liiud of soil; one acre, without manure, lOO bushels; one acre, 2t0 bushels, manured with wood ashes, which was the smallest crop wilh manure ; and the largest crop, manured with 5Li loads of farm yard dung, was 100 bushels. The above experiments, having been made by the best farmers in England, or perhaps in the world, it will be observed, that the above products in artichokes, may be compared with them, to verj' great advantage. Therefore, having obtained the above intel- ligence, I sent to Grant Thorburn for a bushel of artichokes, for seed, in order to make an ex- periment of their growth in this country. He sent me a peck, saying that lie had only sent that quantity, as he did not know that I should approve of the price, which was ;^5per bushel. This seed I received the 6th of May, and imme- diately proceeded to plant it, on a soil in mod- erate tilth for wheat. This peck of seed, I cut as small as was pro- per, in order to make it go as far as possible in planting. And while I was superintending the planting of this seed, the boy, who assisted me,| observed, that there were some artichokes grow- ing on a certain place on my farm, which, when examined, 1 found to be true, for 1 found a poor exposed space of ground (not larger than a com- mon breakfast table) covered with artichokes, from which I dug about live pecks of fine large tubes, which, notwithstanding the tops were grown more than a fool high, I planted with the others. And although they were planted quite too late, I proposed, on some future occasion, to publish the result of this ex|)enment. At this time, they looked very tine, and the ground now appears to be full of large roots. My present opinion, from all I have seen and heard of artichokes, is, that they are the best suited for culti\atiuLj, iu this cUoiait,, — - .,. !or nogs, ^neep, and dairies, of any article thai we have yet tried. Since last spring, I have examined several where they are growing wild, and find that they every where yield a bountiful increase, more than could possibly be expected from po- tatoes or turnips, or any other aciicle growing on the same soil, and under the same circum- stances, and every where indicate, th.U if cul- tivated and manured in the same manner that other crops are, the article would m;iintain the s;ime superiority it does in a state of nature. I have found artichokes growing in hedge rows, and among shrubbery in the borders of gardens, to verv great perfection, where they were perfectly shaded, and apparently overrun with shrubs and weeds, and yet, on examining the root.'^, they were abundant, and larger than common potatoes, from which I concluded, they wnulil even grow to some perfection in wood- lands, where the soil was sot'l and mulchy. As to the best method of culture, 1 cannot say much, as I have no experience, and can only speak from the conclusion I have drawn from observing the natural habits of the plant: from which I would, however, venture to recommend the following course of cultivation, which may be tried on any kind of soil, with great certain- ly of a good return, in proportion to the (piality of the soil, or its improvements. But lo obt.iin the best return, I would choose a field of a size proportioned to the amount of green food f might want for my winter's feeding, and of a pretty good soil, if otherwise convenient, take ip some orchard ground, on account of the ben- Hit that I am persuaded this crop would be to he treo=. The ground should he ploughed and manured, md then drilled in the manner that is usuall3 (lone for potatoes, and about the same quantity of seed planted, at the same distance in the rows. In the fall, the farmer should take up ■ ucli a portion of the tubes as he would prob- ibly want for his winter feeding, which will be done cheapest with the plough. The remain- der of his crop may be left, to be taken up early in th» spring, as there is no way in which they tan he so well preserved as to let them remain In tlie ground during the winter. llie tubes that are taken up in the fall, should be .loused in the same manner that potatoes usually are, altho they are not so liable to injury by frost, as either potatoes or the ruta baga. The next spring, when all the crop has been taktn off the land, the ground should be well and leeply ploughed, as early as possible, which is all the cultivation that will again be wanfin"- to s-'cure the most adundant crop. And when the ground is to be appropriated to some other coune of crops, it will only be necessary to turn a sufficient number of hogs into the lot, land Jicy will entirely eradicate the artichokes, whi:h cannot otherwise be accomplished. Besides the use of this crop for stock, which the ibovementioned authors consider to be equal to pitatoes, they are also recommended highly as ai article of human diet. It is true that when boibd, they do not possess that peculiar farina- ceois quality, that is so much esteemed in the bes sorts of potatoes; but it is said when roast- ed,they are a very delicate article for the ta- ble: their taste then very much resembling the g'tund nut of this country. And from alt my information in relation to tb'; plant, 1 am persuaded that if ovory poor tamilj in Ireland, and elsewhere, could devote one qui.vtcr of an a-ie of land to this article, they would at least bt saved from famine for seven months in the year 1 submit the above obserjation, to the consid- erition of the enlightened members of the Ag- ricultural Society, with my lecommendation, llmt they will at least make an experiment, oa a small portion of medium good soil, such as they usually devote to their potatot crop : and I promise myself the satisfaction to see this crop generally raised tbrougliout the country, as a cfieap, certain, and protitable substitute, both for pctaloes and turnips, where the object is the feeding of stock from November to May: by which, the farmer will be able to bring his ewes and lambs into his pastures in good health and condition, instead of the miserable plight ill which they are now seen during the early sjiring months. The dairy farmer will al'O, by the cultivation of this a:ticle, instead of seeing his cows shrunk and dried up in winter, receive a rich supply of milk at that season, w ben it is most valuable ; and when his cows calve, he will have the moans of fattening the calves, by which he will be sa- ved both the loss and the shame of carrying lean veal to the market, to be sold for little more than the skin is worth. And he will find an ar- ticle, on which to feed his team=, by which he Uvill at least save one hah' of the dry short prov- tnder that tanners arc now obliged to feed, and liy which the health of his teams will be much NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 403 improved; and on the whole, I nm persuaded that by the cultivation of this productive vegeta- ble, the economical farmer will be grealy en riched. If all the above benefits are not real- ized, I shall be much disappointed, as my reli- ance on this crop is so great, that 1 inleud, the ensuin;? "reason, to plant all the seed 1 can pos- sibly procure, at a reasonable expense. DESCRIPTION OF A MOULD-BOARD, Extracted from a letter, dated March Z3, 1708, from Mr. Jrffersnn, to Sir John Sinclair, Pres- ident of the Board of Agriciiltnrc at Lotdon. printed in the -llh volume of the Tran.wctims of the American Fhilosophical Society in Pkita- delphia. In a former letter to you, I mentioned Ihe construction of the mould-board of a plough which had occurred to me, as advantageous in its form, as certain and invariable in the method of obtaining it with precision. 1 remember that Mr. Strickland of York, a member of your board. Avas so well satisfied with the principles on which it was formed, that he took some drawings ef it, and some others have considered it with the ^;ime approbation. An experience of five 3t!ars Ikis enabled me to say, it answers, in praclice, to what it promises in theory. The mould-b^ard should be a continuation of the wing of the ploughshare, beginning at its hinder edge, find m the same plane. Its office is to receiveihe sud horizontally from the wing, to raise it to a proper height for being turned over, and to make, in its progress, the least resistance jos- sible ; and, consequently, to require a miniimm in the moving power. Were this its onljiof- fice, the wedge would offer itself as the ntst eligible form in practice.* But the sod is tobe turned over also. To do this, the one edge'of it is not to be raised at all; for to raise t^is, woulil Ijc n ivasle of labor. Tbe other ed^ is to be raised till it passes the ^erpendicubr, that it may fall over with its ovn weight. And that (l)is may be done, so a? to give also the least' resistance, it must be made to rise gradually tiom the moment ffie sod is received. The mould-board then, in this second office, operates as a transverse, or rising wedge, the point of which sliding back horizontally on the ground, the other end continues rising till it passes the perpendicular. Or to vary the point of view, place on the ground a wedge of the breadth of the ploughshare, of its length from the wing backwards, and as high at the heel as it is wide. Draw a diagonal line on its upper face, from the left angle, at the point, to the right upper angle of the heel. I5evil the face from the diagonal to the right bottom edge, which lies on the ground. That half is then evidently in the best form, for performing the two offices of raising and turning the sod gradually and with the least effort; and if you will suppose the same bevil continued across the left side of the diagonal, that is, if you will suppose a straight line, whose length is at lonst equal to the breadth of the wedge, applied on the face of the first bevil, and moved backwards on its par- allel, with itself and with the ends of the wedge, the lower end of the line, moving along the right bottom-edge, » curved plane will be gen- erated, whose characteristic will be, a combi- nation of the principle of the wedge in cross directions, and will give us what we seek, the cross board of least resistance. It offers too this great advantage, that it may be made by the coarsest workman, b}' a process so exact, that its form shall never be varied a single hair's breadth. One fault of all other mould- boards is, that, being copied by the eye, no two will be alike. In trnlh, it is easier to form the mould-board I speak of with precision, when the method has been once seen, than to describe that method cither by words or figures. * I am aware, tliat were the turf to be raised to a given height, in a given length of mould-board, aud not to be turned over, the form of least resistance would not be rigorously a wedge with both faces straight, but with the upper cue curved, according to the laws of the solid of least resistance described by the mathema- ticians. But the difference between the effect of the curved and of the plain wedge, in the case of a mould- board, is so minute, and the difficulty in the execution wliich tlie former would superinduce on common work- men, is so great, that the plain wedge is the most eli- gible to be assumed in practice of the first element of our coDslructicn. ANALYSIS OF SOILS. " In cases when the general nature of the soil of a field is to be ascertained, specimens of it should be taken from different places, two or three inches below the surface, and examined as to the similarity of their properties. It some- times happens, that upon plains the whole of the upper stratum of the land is of the same kind, and in this case, one analysis will be suffi- cient ; but in vallies, and near the beds of riv- ers, there are very great differences, and it now and then occurs that one part of a field is calcareous, and another part siliceous; and in this case, and in analogous cases, the portions ditierent from each other should be separately submitted to experiment. " Soils when collected, if Ihcy cannot be im- tnediately examined, ehoultl b^ i>rpserv«?d in phials quite filled with them, and closed with ground glass stoppers. " The quantity of soil most convenient for a perfect analysis, is from two to four hundred grains. It should be collected in dry weather, and exposed to the atmosphere till it becomes dry to the touch. " The specific gravity of a soil, or the rela- tion of its weight to that of water, may be as- certained by introducing into a phial, which will contain a known quantity of water, equal volumes of water und of soil, and this may be easily done by pouring in water till it is half full, and then adding the soil till the fluid rises to the mouth ; the difference between the weight of the soil and that of the water will give the result. Thus if the bottle contains 400 grains of water, and gains 200 grains when half filled with water and half with soil, the specific gra- vity of the soil will be 2, that is, it will be twice as heavy as water, and if it gained 165 grains, its specific gravity would be 1825, water being 1000. " It is of importance, that the specific gravity of a soil should be known, as it alfords an indi- cation of the quantity of animal and vegetable matter it contains; these substances begin al- ways most abundant in tlie lighter soils." Daw. above this some clean sand ; sink this tub in the river or pit, so that only a few inches of the tub will be above the surface of the water; the riv- er or pit water will filter through the sand, and rise clear through it to the level of the water on the outside, aud will be pure and limpid. Recent experiments have shewn that tile? are, greatly improved, and rendered impervious to water and frost, by being rubbed over with tar before they arc laid on the roof To purify the muddy -j:ater of rivers or pits. Make a number of holes in the bottom of a deep tub; lay some clean gravel thereon, and THE REAL HYSON TEA PLANT, Introduced into the United States, and no'^ culti- ratcd in Korlh Carolina. A R n, an old traveller in the Indies, and at present an inhabitant of Moore county, IV. C. is well acquainted with the growth and cultiva- tion of the above lea plant in foreign as well as this country, and also with the mode and man- ner of curing its leaves; and gives to the public the following communication respecting it: As soon as the leaves arrive to maturity they should be gathered in the morning, while the dew is upon them, after three or four days of good sunshine weather in succession previous to gathering, and clear from any rain falling in the interim to wet them : then dry up the dew on them as early as you can in the shade, (say in a room where there is as little wind or air stirring as possible,) after which, put the leaves into a stone jar or jars, with as small mouths as can be had so as to preclude the steam from getting outj or the air or water within, by tying cloths ovei^thcm, and putting on plates or small waiters, witlt weight thereon : then set the jar or jars into a large pot or kettle, with water up to their neck;, and by no means let auy get into their mouths, boil it slowly, until the leaves are completely wilted : take the jar or jars out and set them away, with their covers securely on, until thoy and their contents are perfectly cool : take out the leave>, with their liquid sub- stance (if anv,) and put the whole together ia equal quantities, into large dishes, to dry in the shade as before recited (say on tables in a room as clear of wind or air as possible,) often stir- ring the leaves, that they may absorb the liquid (if any) and dry with expedition: when thor- oughly done, should be immediately canistered up, and is then fit for use. The writer of this article has, for some years past, successfully cultivated and cured in this country the above plant from seed which he himself obtained from the East Indies ; and there is not the least doubt but that it will prosper and do well in any part of the United States, as the seed which falls from the plant or other- wise will stand the winter of this climate, and come up in the spring ; but the most advisable way is to gather the seed in the fall, and sow them in the spring, in small drills, of good fine earth, about two feet wide ; from which yon can draw out in a wet season, and transplant as other plants, as soon as three leaves appear on the plant, leaving and depositing them about eight inches apart, and cultivating them with a hoe, as you (vould cotton or indigo, which had better be done in the evening, when the heat of the day is over. Three gatherings may be had in a season — the first is the best. A wisp of straw should be placed in the bot- tom of the pot or kettle, to set the jar^ on, when boiled. **■ 401 NE\V ENGLAND FARMER. From the Massachusetts Agricultural Repository. ON RAl'-ING THK OAK FROM THE ACORN, " AM) Tin: BEJT MODE OF DOING IT. [by the editors.] U i": verv extraordinary, that, notwithstand- in<,' tlm Massachusetts .Agricultural Society has lor thirty years offered great premiums for tiie culture of the oak in |)lantations, and especially since the legislature enjoined it upon the sever- al agricultural societes throaghout the state to oiler' premiums for the raising of forest trees, but two claims should have been made. We can only account for it on one of the following grounds, either that the premium has not attract- ed the attention of our farmers, or that they have not sullicient spirit and enterprise, or that they are averse from any new culture, how- ever important and reasonable. We shall take the article of White Oaks, which were selected by our society, as being the most valuable tim- ber of the Northern States. The premium offered in 1822, for one acre planted with white oaks, and found to be in the best state in September 1823, (tliatisat eighteen months old,) was 100 dollars per acre. The expense of raising seedlings of eighteen months old would not exceed twenty dollars more, if the follewing account be correct; indeed we believe it would not exceed ten dollars, as we can see no reason why the expense of planting an acre of acorns should exceed the expense of planting an acre of corn. There would be left then of clear profit to the raiser of an acre of oaks a profit of sixty dollars at least for two years culture, and as is remarked in the follow- in"- article, a crop of grain may be raised at the same time sullicient to pay the whole expense. Have we no man in the state wko is spirited enough to set the example, and cirry aw.iy the honor and prolit ? The acre of oaks ■■vill afiT- -u.'(irrfs fee his, and tlioro is no mode in ,vhicli hn could employ his land to so great advantage. It '¥o " The first year after planting the acorns, jbontinue to feel their prejudice, when woodland the weeds must be kept down hv hoeing and is far the most valuable, and must constantly in- hand-weeding, and this must he "done early in crease in its comparative value ? the spring before the weeds get so strong as to hide the tender plants, which would occasion many of them to be destroyed in cleaning. It is also the cheapest as well as neatest husbandry to take weeds down, before they grow too large ; for though the ground may require an additional hoeing "in spring, yet the weeds being hoed down when young, a man may hoe over a great quantity of ground in a day. Weeds cut in their From the Providence Gazette. Messrs. Editors — Observing in your useful paper an account of the manner of preserving peaoli trees from the fly in Virginia, by the application of tobacco, I am induced to send you the following, being the result of twenty years experience. The fly makes its appearance here the first of tender state immediately die. Whereas, when Upni^ resembles a wasp in size and shape, and they are old and strong, they frequently grow is of a pale blue color. The whole process of again, especially if rain falls soon after, they the fly and worm is accurately described in the perfect their seeds in a short time, and thereby 'Virginia account. My remedy is to hill up the injure the whole plantation. idirc from around the trees, to the height of 12 or " The second year of their growth the com- 15 inches, and about 18 or 20 in diameter, pres- mon plough may be made use of, to cultivate 'sing it close, to prevent its being removed by and keep the ground clean, [or potatoes mighti hesvy rains. I removed the dirt about the 1st of be raised between the rows if proper care he August. If not removed until November, no in- will not surely be said, that our f.'rmers cannrjt] underwood spare uiiy of their land, when our great error taken not to trample on the plants. — Editors.] As these acorns sometimes fail, the author proposes a nursery in the same field to supply the deficiencies. " Having then given directions for the raising of wood, I proceed," says the author, " to their future management. And first, the rows being four feet asunder, and the plants two feet apart in the rows, they may stand in this manner for twelve or fourteen years, when every seconii plant may he taken out and sold for hoops or poles. After every second plant is taken away, let the roots of those taken away he grubbed up to give the remaining plants more room freely to extend their roots. The plants being now four feet apart each way, they will require no more thinning for seven or eight years, that is, till they are twenty years old, when the healthiest and most thriving trees must be mirk- fiH to stand for timber, and the others cut dotvn or poles, and their roots left to produce future jurv will result to the trees ; any substance im- pervious to the fly will answer the purpose as well as tobacco or dirt. OLD WARWICK. i.nf hea« kac i!Oi i;; consists in 'holding mere than we can, or do cultivate -u'cti. On the mode nf raising the Oak '■'■from Hunter^ A'otes on Evcbjns S^Z-ja." " Having the ground properly prepared, (by breaking it up and reduc ng it to a fine tilth, either by potatoes or repeated ploughings) and having a suflicienl quantity of acorns, all gath- ered from the most vigorous, healthy, and thri- ving trees, proceed to the setting them in the, following manner. In the month of February or March [but in this country we say from experi- ence, the months of November or December if the latter month be open,] let lines be drawn across the ground for the rows, at the distance of tour feet from each -father; but if this be thought too great an interval, the rows may be made three feet, in which case the ac irns must be put down at a greater dislance from each other. Then having sticks pro[ierly rounded to make the holes, (a common dihble) plant the acorns in the rovvs at ten inches asunder. Let them be put down about tvvo inches below the surface, and see that the earth be properly closed upon them to prevent mice or crows from injuring the seed. In some places it is custom- ary to sow acorns after the plough in furrows, but where the ground happens to be stiff, great care should be taken not to cover the seed with ■too thick a furrow. '• The oak will grow and thrive on almost any soil, if properly planted, though it canni/l be supposed that their success will be equal in all places. A rich, deep, loamy soil is what oaks mest delight in, though they will grow exceedingly well in clays of all kinds, and in sandii soils, in which last, the Jincsl grained tim- ber is produced.'''' The author then proceeds to inquire, which of the different modes of raising oaks produces the best timber, from the acorn, the seed-bed, or the nursery. Mr. Evelyn decides in favor of planting the acorn, and Mr. Hunter adds, that whoever will look at the woods which were soziin, and compare them with those which were planted from nurseries, will not hesitate a mo- ment to declare in favor of Evelyn's opinion. What are the obstacles to our following this excellent example of the great farmers of Eng- land, in the age in which our ancestors emi- grated? Is it because we are too im]>aticnt, and unwilling to await so tardy a return ? Yet there are constant pleasures in tlie annual growth cf our forests ; they seem to be the work of our own hands, at least of our own provi.lence and care ; they are subject to fewer hazards, and their profit is certainly greater than that of any other employment of capital on land, or is this aversion to planting the effect of an hereditary prejudice against trees ? Our ancestors found their extirpation, their greatest tabor, and do we From the Dartmouth (N. H.) Herald. KEEPING HORSES. Every gentleman, who is obliged by his health or his business to keep a horse, complains of the enormous expense incurred by it. If allowed to 2at and waste as much as he chooses, a horse wil consume from four to five tons of hay in a 'ear, besides the necessary grain. But it is assrted from actual experiment, that ten pounds of jood hay, with two quarts of corn a day, are emugh to keep a common horse in fine order. T-n pounds of hay a day are 3G jO pounds, little nure than a ton and a half a year — and two qiarts of corn per day are about twenty three bifihels a year. Call IvAy seven dollars a ton at4 corn four shillings a bushel, and you make the ^nnual expense of feeding a horse twenty six or :even doUau, about half as much as it commonly costs. To keep a horse in the cheapest and health- iest manner, let him stan6 on green turf, dug up pretty thick, and placed on the floor of his stable — let him be carefully and faithf'ully cur- ned every day. This is of more importance than is sometimes imagined. It opens the pores and preserves a healthful state of the skin, on which, in horses as in men, depends, as much as on almost any thing else, the proper and healthy operation of the various animal func- tions. Although the inferior animals are not, like men. subiecf to unnatur.il appetites on account of unnatural stimulants received into the stota- ach, they unquestionably often consume more food than is necessary to ma,intain their vigor and spirit. This surplus it is economy to ascer- tain and retrench. Corn is cheaper than oats for horses, because there is more heart in a quantity of the same price. It is better to be given two or thiee times a day in small messes — and to be given dry that the mastication of it may keep the mouth in a healthy state. To measure hay the tare of a basket may be taken, and the hay given from it in small quan- tities through the' day, but chiefly at night. A horse that is not used should be fed with corn but sparingly. It should be accasionally salted. i- iJ NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 405 t is not perhaps generally considered, that ses are subject to colds and fevers as really nen. They should therefore be used with at tenderness and delicacy, and often ivashed ;old water. The pulse generally indicates health of a horse. It may be felt about an h back of the eye, and in health beats about strokes in a minute. The great secret in making horses look well I do well is attention to them. Men who ! above looking to their horses, will seldom e good ones. In using horses it is better to drive briskly i stop often than to drive even slowly by long ges. JEW ENGLAND FARMER. SATURDAY, JULY 19, 1823. Fanner's and Gardener''s Remembrancer. JULY. Hakvest. — Much has been said and written the proper time to harvest wheat. It is iw generally agreed that it is better to cut heat rather betore it is ripe, and not wait till e whole becomes uniformly yellow. A writer . the Memoirs of the Board of Agriculture of lie State of New York, observes that " a great jal of waste attends wheat, when it is permit- id to become ripe before it is cut ; in cutting, inding, pitching, loading, and carrying home, )me will shell out ; and it is a very common ling a fortnight after harvest, to see a field as lickly covered with young plants as if it had een sown over again; in this manner a couple f bushels to the acre are lost, without taking ito the account that which has not sprouted. iy cradling it a little before it is ripe, if the rain is not quite, as plump, which generally it fould be, at least it is compensated by savin''- hat part of it which would have been wasied ; t IS got in in mm h cleaner condition, a;;! ti .: traw IS in a better situation eilher for foJdcr )r other purposr-s. It shouJd be left as it is :radle^ twenty-four or forty-eight liours, ac- ording to the weather, as being more exposed to the sun and air, it will cure more perfectly than if imraediately put into sheaves. This is very essentird to be observed, for when put by in a damp situation, mouldiness is sure to take place, and it is diminished in value both for sale and for use." Some recommend to make the bands for wheat in the moruing early, while the dew renders the straw pliable, wluch may be well when the grain has been suffered to stand till it has be- come very ripe. It may likewise be well In bind your sheaves, when the straw is brittle, towards evening, as a small degree of moisture ■will not only make the straw tougher, but in some degree prevent the shelling of the grain. When wheat or rye is blasted or mildewed it should be cut immediately, though still in the milk. It may lie on the ground till the straw is sufficiently dried, and the grain is in some de- gree hardened. But care should be taken that it be spread thin. Dr. Deane observed that " the beads should lie so as not to touch the ground ; which may be easily done if the reap- ers will only take care to lay the top end of each handful on the lower end of the preceding one." Rye may be reaped as soon as the straw is all turned, except at the joints, and immediately belcv the ear has become so dry that no sap can be forced out by twisting it ; and the kernel has lecome so hard that you cannot well break or mash it between your thumb and linger. " tVbeat and other grain that is lodged, may, and ought to be cut the earlier ; for after the strau is broken or corrupted, it conveys no noniishment to the grain, or as bad as none. " The ancients reaped their corn, as Pliny says before it was fully ripe. And it is certain that great inconveniences arise from letting some sorts of grain stand till they come to their utmjst maturity. The chaff and straw are the worse for fodder. And if such corn chance to tak( wet in harvesting it suffers more for being ter; ripe. But grain cut in a greener state will bear a good deal of wet without damage."* Butif wheat be intended for seed (as we shall shov hereafter) it should not be cut till quite ripe L)oK TO vouR Gardens, Nurseries, Orchards, &c.— We are not a little apprehensive that in conjequence of the hurry of hay time and har- vest your garden, orchard, &lc. have not com- manled a sufficient share of j'our attention. In order to destroy wasps, ants, &,c. you should hanf up, or place glass phials, filled with honey or sigar water in such parts of j'our premises as are most exposed and most liable to their depredations. But these contrivances tor de- btrojing insects should be made use of before [the "ruit begins to ripen, otherwise the plun- derers will prefer the fruit to your bait, and shuD the road to their ruin. Hoe the ground aboTit your fruit trees, flowering shrubs, &,c. of all descriptions, that the weeds may not rob thcin of the nutriment which they would other- pise derive from the earth. Cut off all suckers and sprouts which spring from thj roots of the Irees. " Pick off all punctured and decaying sruits, nner entitled the " New Engla.ve Farmer," irom the able manner in which it is Conducted, is calculated to be highly useful to the farming interest, and deserving of more ex- tensive patronage than it has hitherto received we therefore cheerfully offer this expressiou oi the approbation of the Board, and of a hope that there will be found a willingness in the public to increase the subscription so far as to enable the publisher to continue his paper, lud thus secure permanently to farmers, this valua- ble vehicle of agricultural information, wLich we think the best of the kind with which we are acquainted. A copy from the record, BENJ. GUILD, Assistant Rec. 6'ec. .lERUSALEM ARTICHOKE. The observations of Mr. McKoan, in the ar- ticle which commences this day'.s paper, cannot fail to suggest important ideas to every person, who is concerned or feels an interest in the 5*' ■| 'J! lio; fc olJJ htHi proJi t'lUB J lie; f.. I*' Kiln 1W0\ 7» pursuits of agriculture. We have attempted^,,,, procure information relative to a plant wh! ^;j,i,i we have been in the habit of considering to l|,ii little better than the most worthless weed tl ,|j',j annoys the cultivator. The result of our '',„„ quiriesis that the Jerusalem Artichoke is ca|l Jj,i„, by botanists Helianthus Tuberosus, and is of t .||a;, same genus with the Sunflower. Dr. Darti ',,9 informs us, (Phytologia, sec. xvi,) that " hoii j,, are fond of the leaves, and swine of the roo both of which are produced in great quantit („ and as the latter contain much sugar, they mt be nutritive ; and in respect to their culina use are remarkably grateful to most palates, well as nutritive, when cut into slices, and ba ed in beef or mutton pies ; but are said to 1 flatulent in the bowels of those whose digesth is not very powerful ; a property, which mig be worth attention, where the propensity fermentation is required, as in making bres with potatoes, or in the distillery." A writer for the Bath Society Papers, vol. i page 278, with the signature N. l^artley, say " At a considerable expense and trouble, I pr cured of these roots suflicient to plant half « acre of ground ; but I have them now in gre plenty; I find the produce to be about foi hundred and eighty Winchester bushels to th acre ; and I think they are about equal in valu to potatoes for feeding store pigs, such as arlii; not less than five or sis months old. For fattin {■im hogs I do not find they are near so valuable i potatoes. But their chief recommendations ar the certainty of the crop, that they flourish i almost any soil, nnd do not require any manure at least for such a produce as I have stated.— They are proof against the severest frost, an may be taken oat of the ground as occasioi may serve ; whereas potatoes are soon affecle with frost, and must therefore be secured be fore winter sets in. I generally plant three 0 four acres in a season." The writer planted his artichokes, in Eng ,fi land, in the beginning of March, in drills thret feet and an half asunder, and the sets or cut ings nine inches apart in the rows. The Farmer's Assistant recommends boiling these roots for feeding swine, and says they wil grow well in almost any dry soil, even if it be poor. When cut and ground in a cider mill they make good food for horses, with the addi. tion of a little salt. Mr. Legaux, of Springmill. Pennsylvania, raises this root from Dutch seed, and has them eight or nine inches in diameter. He says they are easily kept through winter in the ground, nothing being requisite further than to dig a trench round them to prevent the wa- ter from injuring them. We have "onversed with practical farmers on the subject of cultivating the artichoke, and have always found them opposed to it, princi- pally on account of the diificulty of clearing the ground of this rooi. They say that there is bo ik NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 407 d so dillicult to subdue, and if it once gels ession of a piece of ground it maintains its lopoly in defence of all ordinary methods ol' rpation. But if the industry of hogs is all is wanted, as Mr. McKean informs us, there othing to be apprehended on that score. II ill "grow to some perfection in woodlands," on a soil which would produce little or no- g else of value, it might render millions of s in the United States productive, which ' are nearly or quite useless. It would cost ling for seed after the first 3ear, and aflord >nsiderable product, with no labor, except ; of gathering it. It is, moreover, a species ho Helianthus, or Sunflower, which we are produces, by the perspiration of its leaves, :h greater quantities of oxygene gas, or vital than any other vegetable. It may thus pro- e health as well as furnish subsistence. Per- p, too, its leaves and stalks may be worth lething as ingredients in compost beds, or to ;w over the farmers' yard in the autumn. savaje. Anarchy, pillage and murder are predomi- nant throughout the kingdom, ami law and social or- der liave ceased to control the passions, or regulate the conduct of the great mass of the population. Progress of Revolution in South America. — The pro- vince of Guadalaxnra, in Mexico, has declared itself free and independent of the other provinces of .•Vmerica, in a proclamation of 'i'i articles. She will hold no re- laliois, except exterior ones, with the other provinces, and recognise nothing which the deputies iu the pres- ent Congress may do contrary to this. It is proposed to es ablish a perpetual Congress at Queretaro, to raise au aimy, buiM a navy, kc. The New Vork American says, " We learn on the authority of a Colombian gentleman in high ollicial statian, now in this city, that the Congress of that Re- publ r, considering its own independence as firmly es- tab'ili.'d, has authorized Gen. Bolivar to proceed with 400(. eten to the aid of the Peruvian government, in addi :ou to 4000 troops previously allotted to that ser- vice." FOREIGN. LATEST FROM EUROPE. :^ By an arrival at New York, from Liverpool, don papers have been received to the 2d, and Liv- lol papers to the 3d of June. I'aris dates were re- ed by the same arrival to the 30th of May. y these it should sefm that Madrid was occupied he Kreuch on the 3od of May, and a regency was blibhed on the day following. Count Abisbal, the istitutional General of the army of Madrid, has re- ed to the enemy. That officer, in a letter to the nch comminder, stated that he is of opinion that majority of the nation is not solicitous to continue constitution of the year lijl2. He advises the g to dismiss his ministers and appoint others who woi\ded to uo party, and who woul^i deserve the fidenec of all Spaniards, as well as of all Foreign vers. 'he London Courier of the 28th May says, " We assured that Ministers consider the intelligence y yesterday received from Spain, as decisive with :>rd to the war. The proceeding of Count Abisbal st lead to such arrangements as will speedily put an I to hostilities. He despatched copies of his answer Vlontijo, to Mina, Balb^sterns, and Morillo, and it 3 not doubted they would act in concert with him. isbal's army did not exceed four thousand men, and prudently marched them from Madrid, fearful of consequence! that would likely ensue, had they lained in the capital when the French troops en- ed it." The London Sun of the 31st May states that nego- .ioos between France and the new Spanish Minis- 3 are now in progress, and that the whole has been anged with the full knowledge and sanction of the li=h government. Many of the Cortes have abscnt- themselves with the understanding that they are to be molested when the new order of affairs is es- lish'-'d. Austria has assembled no army, and toge- •r with Prussia and Russia has resolved to adopt a icy entirely neutral. The terms offered by France Spain, they say, are such as will be satisfactory to rope in general. There is a great deal more of g^iess vork in these pers not worth republishing. All we can learn is It the Spaniards are about to submit to such au order things as their dictators think proper to prescribe. TIte Greeks. — It is said that arrangements have been cted, through the British Minister at Constantino- ;, by which Greece is to be declared free, on ccndi- n of paying to the Porte annual tribute equal to the ?eaue which the Porte formerly derived from Greece. IreIand.~The last accounts from that unhappy coun- ' represent the state of society as worse than the DOMESTIC. Bmktr Hill Monument Association. — .4t the late sessifu of the Legislature of Massachusetts an act was passel to incorporate a company with this title. An Address setting forth the objfCts of this association has been prepared, and has the highly respectable signa- tures of Daniel Webster, William Sullivan, H. A. S. Dearlorn, Wm. Tudor, Richard Sullivan, Samuel D. Harri-', F. C Gray, Samuel Swett, and Geo. Ticknor. Tile object of this association, as stated in this address, "is to cause to be erected a Moncment, which shall be consecrated to the great leading characters and ecent!, both civil and military, of the American Revc- lltion, up to the ITtli of June, 1775, to bear appvopri- a:e descriptions, names and dates." It is added that " as soon as arrangements can be concerted, appeals ■flill be made through committees to individuals. .\11 ■still have an opportunity of contributing as their ability o| inclination may prompt. The smallest donations ^^ilI be gladly received, and the humblest citizen may htve an opportunity of saying that he has contributed something to testify his respect for the labors and suf- feings of his ancestors. An exact account of all sub- saipt.ons will be kept-, those of each town entered separately, and the name of each donor rt-corded in a ptrmauent volume, to be deposited and preserved in til' monument." Robbery of the Mail. — On the morning of the 7th in-t. about 2 o'clock, the mail stage from Philadelphia to Baltimore, was robbed about Ifl miles from the last iiEntioned city. A rail fence had been thrown across th? road by the robbers, which stopped the stage. — 1 iree men advanced, at vi horn the guard discharged hii blunderbuss and tv.'o pistols. Although some of tic shot took effect, the robbers knocked down the giard, and compelled the driver to flight. The guard WIS held in duresse by one of the robbers, while the otiers rifled the mail, and the whole retreated. The ahrm having been given by the driver, a party pro- ceeded to the place where the crime was perpetrateel, a :hirt was found, which it was ascertained belonged to Me of the laborers who worked at a forge in the vidnily, and it was found that the robbers were work- mei, whose names were Ward, Emmenheiser, and .Moere. The latter confessed the crime, and they were all tommitted for trial. Jf'indows. — The Baltimore Morning ChFOnicle, in noticing the recent death of a child by a window sash lallingbn its neck, has some remarks respecting the mannei of their construction, which it considers unsafe, and recommends windows to open like folding doors, as preferable both for ornament and safety. This im- provet} mode of making windows, we are informed, has betn adopted in many of the large cities of Europe, and travellers who have returned from their tours in that country are so convinced of the superiority of con- struction in the manner of folding doors that they are surprised not to find them adopti d iu this country, where the useful arts are in such a high state of im- provement. The constituents of Mr. McDufHe, of South Carolina, have recently given Iiim a dinner, at which he made a long speech. AGRICULTURAL FRE.MIUM, FOR IHF. BEST MANAGED FARM. AT a meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Mass.a- chusetts Society for promoting .Agriculture, held at the President's, 12lh July, llliS, it was Voted, That this Society will grant as a premium to the ouner of the bal citllirulcd Farm uilhin the. pre- cincts of the several Ai^rieutluriil Societies of the 5/fl/f, the sum of Thirty Dollars each, in addition to the pre- mium which may have Ijeen awarded the claimant by the local Society; and that it will accept, as full evi- dence of the meiit of the claimant, a certificate sigiicel by the President of the local Society, certifying that such person was declared by the Society or their Trus- tees, entitled to the pi-emium within that district ; — that the applicant shall, however, in all cases, be held to exhibit to this Society, a statement of the extent of his farm ; the state and plan of his farming buildings; his mode of collecting and managing manure ; the number of domestic animals usually supported thereon ; the quantity and quality of land under cultivation, and his usual mode of culture, as well as the average a- mount of his crops, of all sorts. A copy from the record, BENJ. GL'ILD, Assistant Rec^c; Sec''y. July 10, 1823. Q:j'30B PRINTING neatly executed at the Farmer Office, on reasonable tc rms. PRICES OF COUNTRY PRODUCE, &c. [Revised and corrected every Friday.] FROM TO D. C. D. C. ASHES, pot, 1st qpal. . . . ton. 140 00 143 00 pearl do. .... 150 00 163 00 BEANS, white, bush 1 00 1 10 BEEF, mess, 200 cwt. . . . bbl. 9 00 9 50 cargo. No 1, . . . . 8 00 8 50 " No2, . . . . 6 75 7 00 BUTTER, inspect. 1st qual. . lb. 11 • 12 " 2d qua!. . p 10 small kejs, family. n 14 CHEESE, new milk .... 7 8 ILAX 8 9 FLAX SEED bush 85 90 FLOUR, Baltimore, superfine. bbl. 7 75 8 00 Genessee .... 7 75 8 00 Rye, best .... 4 50 4 75 GRAIN, Rye bush 70 73 Corn 58 60 Barley 08 71) Oats 40 4-2 HOGS' LARD, 1st sort . . lb. fi 10 HOPS, No 1, o 12 LIME, cask 1 25 1 37 OIL, Linseed, American . . gal. 65 00 PLAISTER PARIS .... ton. 2 75 3 00 PORK, Navy Mess .... bbl. 12 00 12 50 Bone Middlings . . , 14 00 14 50 Cargo, No 1, ... 12 0(1 12 50 Cargo, No 2, . . . 11 00 11 50 SEEDS, Herd's Grass . . • bush 2 00 2 25 Clover lb. 8 9 WOOL, Merino, full bloDd,washed 55 60 do do unwashed 46 50 do 3-J washed 50 55 do 1-2 do 45 47 Native .... do 37 40 Pulled, Lamb's, 1st sort 55 60 do Spinning, 1st sort 50 55 PROVISIOK MARKET. BEEF, best pieces .... lb. J 10 PORK, fresh •J 8 VEAL, R 8 LAME, per quarter .... 30 45 POULTRY, 10 12 BUTTER, keg & tub ... 13 14 lump, best . . . 18 20 EGGS, doz. 14 15 MEAL, Rye, bush /o SO Indian, 75 POTATOES, 45 47 CIDER, liquor, bbl. 1 .^0 2 25 HAY, best, ton. 18 00 22 00 408 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. THE HAPPV MXy.—TrarulaUd from Horace. Happy the man, who free from care, Manures his own paternal fields, Content, as bis wise fathers were, T' enjoy the crop his labor yields. Nor usury torments his breast, That barters happiness for ^^^'"1 Nor war's alarms disturb his rest. Nor hazards of the faithless main : Nor at the ever wranjling bar. With costly noise and dear debate, Proclaims an everlasting war. Nor fawns oa bad men basely great. But for the vine selects a spouse, Chaste emblem of the marriage bed, Or prunes the too luxuriant boughs, And grafts more fruitful in their stead : Or views the lowing herds, that share The produce of his fertile plains. And ponders with delightful care. The prospect of his future gains : Or shears his sheep which round him graze, And droop beneath their curling loads, * Or plunders his laborious bees Of balmy nectar, meet for god?. When autumn comes to crown the year. And bending boughs reward his pains. Joyous he plucks the luscious pear. The puiple grape his finger stains. Each honest heart's a welcome guest, With tempting fruits his table glows, And still the Almighty Donor's blest. For wliat his Providence bestow?. LIGHTNLNG RODs! The first object of the rod (s.ays Dr. FrnnU- Jin) is to prevent a discharge oi electricity from the cloud — to effect this object, the rod should be well elevated, and terminate in a slim sharp point. Dr. Franklin's experiments as well as others, prove that the power of tlic pointed rod extends quite to the clouds, and takes from them a vast quantity of the lluid before they arrive within the striking distance. From the rod which he erected on his own house, he led a small wire into one of the rooms in the house; on the end of the wire was fixed a small bell, and at six or eight inclies distance from the bell was placed another ; from this bell a wire was led into the cellar and fixed to the pump rod ; between the two bells, a brass ball was suspended by a silk thread ; when a thunder cloud appeared over the house, the bells would be electrified, and the brass ball would be at- tracted and repelled alternately, ai. ^.'.play quick- ly between the liclls, and keep up a continual ringing till the cloud had passed over the bouse. At one time he was aw.ikened by an unusual noise— he immediately sprang out oi bed to as- certain the cause ; and on opening the door he perceived the quantity of lluid that was passing down w.is unusually great ; the brass ball was removed at a distance from the bells, and an uninterrupted column of lluid was passing from one bell to the other. This circumstance is sufficient to prove that the pointed rod will prevent, or at least, lessen the discharge from lie clouds ; a dull or blunt point will have little or no eflpct ; therefore, pains ought to be taken to have it in its proper shape. The second object of the rod is to receive and conduct the electrical fluid into the earth, when the point is insufficient to prevent a dis- charge from the cloud ; to effect this object, the conducting power of the rod should be made as great as possible, by having the rod communi- cate with some conducting substance, such as water, or very moist earth. Franklin says, the rod should be settled, at least, six feet below the surface of the ground. Some have recom- mended putting a large quantity of charcoal at the bottom of the rod, and have it extend some distance from it ; this may have a good efect, for charcoal is a perfect conductor of electrici- ty. The conductor ought to be three fourths of an inch in diameter; rods of iron but Bttle smaller than this have been known to be com- pletely dissipated at one stroke of lightning. — The rod ought to pass in the most direct course possible, for the conducting power ot a red or wire is alwaj's weakened by increasing its letigth, and the lluid will follow a short condtictir in preference to a long one, in all cases. U obght to be supported by wood, and not suffered to come in contact with any metallic substjnce, such as staples, or nails of iron, brass 01 any other metal. — Providence Journal. ' each sheep owner, where the sheep were s erally shorn. ^ V^' There is sense in the following extract at least; whether it be common sense or not, we will not pretend to decide: SENSE. — There are a great many gradq- atioQs of wisdom among people — there is good sense, great sense, and fine and high sense, be- sides no sense and little sense ; but the bestkird of sense in my estimation, is that which is vul- garly denominated common sense. Your good sense is always running away with itself; yojr great sense is sure to have mischief at the bjt- tom of it; your tine sense makes broken hearts ; your higb sense broken tieads ; your no sense goes blundering to the devil often, and your lit- tle sense is not much better — hut common seree fills a man's purse with dollars, bis cellar wih beef and pork, and his peaceful fire-side wih a — good wife and good children. Common sense is best. Whatever may be the opinions of our tn marine readers, the vast flock thus concentrai together with the multitude employed in sh(.^ ing, and gathered to witness the operation, j"* sented no contemptible spectacle. If the ei bition was not In itself calculated, equally n' any military displaij, to inspire ideas of natk independence, it at" leist imbued the behol with some notion of domestic comfort, and <)ii 1 ried his mind back to the sylvan simplicity '1 the patriarchal ages. On the spot a number of large tents w^ji I erected, through which the voice of festi- j resounded. We have not been furnished wli jany formal orc/cr of the rites therein perform ir- I but the following may be imagined to have b< Jf. among the " toasts drank on the occasion." The festival xce celebrate — May eur politi \d and ecclesiastical shepherds be as careful to shear too close. Commerce — The golden fleece of the nation Jlgriculture and Manufactures — May they tlo n ish by hook or by crook. National Independence — May it prosper m< b}' industry than gunpowder. Our Legislators — May their tongues nev like lamb's tails, wag, wag, wag. The Krout Club — Cabbage heads and Mut heads; may a sufliciency of pluck attend botl The Fair Sc.x — When our bcau.r cast she; eyes towards them, may they become ■warm ui'Ool. Ike iiJf From the Nantucket Inquirer. "SHF.ARK\G." The annual Shearing took place on Mondiy and Tuesday last. Our distant readers may pcs- sibly smile at this annunciation of an event ap- parently so unimportant. Uut when we assure them that this is almost the only jubilee whiih we islanders allow ourselves to celebrate in aiy sort of style, they may offset this account agaiist the innumerable details of Election festivals, Fourth-oJ-Jaly parades, Tammany dinners, Christ- mas treats, Linnean Coronations, Krout fcasl<, and Horse Races, at which we are ever and aeon compelled to expand our opticks and smack our lips in envious wonderment. There are about 10,(X)U Sheep kept on this island, which it had hitherto been customiry to shear in two separate Hocks, east and west of the town. The sheep owners the present year, however, resolved on a general shearing; and for this iiurposc an area of 300 acres w.is in- closed, about three miles south of the town, into which the sheep, collected from all quar- ters of the island, were driven. In the centre of this field, a large circular pen was I'ormed, bordered on its exterior by the private pens of FORTY YEARS AGO— Literature meant learning, and was supper by common sense. Refined nonsense had advocates, and was pretty generally kicked 1 of doors. Forty years ago — men of property could lab and wear homespun to c)iurch. Women coi spin and weave, make butter and cheese, wh( husbands were worth thousands. Forty years ago — there were but fevr mi chants in the country — few insolvent debto and very rarely imprisoned for debt. Forty years ngo--the young ladies of the fi respectability learned music, but it was t humming of the wheel, and learned the neci sary steps of dancing in following it. Th« forte piano was a loom, their parasol was broom, and their novels the bible. Forty years oi,'o-^the young gentlemen ho corn, chopped wood at the door, and went school in the winter to learn reading, writii and arithmetic. Forty years ago — there was no such thing balls in the summer, and but fen in the winte except snow balls : and Forty years ago — if a mechanic promised do your work, you might depend ou his won the tiling would be done. TERMS OF THE FARMER. Q:^ Published every Saturday, at Three Doli.A per annum, payable at the end of the year — but Iho who pay within sixty dai/s from the time of subsciibii will he entitled to a deduction of Fifty Cents. 0:5= No paper will be discontinued (unless at tl discretion of the Publisher) until arrearages are paid (tj" Agents who procure seven subscribers, and b come responsible for the payment . will be entitled (0 copy gratis, and iu the same proportion for a larg number. ]SEW ENGLAND FARMER. PUBLISHKI) BY THOMAS \V. SHTPARU, IIOCJKR.-' BUILlJl.XGP, CONGRESS STKKKT, (KOURTH UOOi! i RUM STATE S'IRKEl.) 'OL. I. BOSTON, SATURDAY, JULY 20, 1823. No. 52. [From Elkiugton on Draining-.] N ACCOUNT OF THE MOST APPROVED MODE OF DRAlMiNG LAND, kc. kc. In the year 1763 Mr. Elkinijton was left, by lis father, the possession of a farm, called incethorp, in the parish of St»ctton npon ")insmore, aiiJ county of Warwick. The .soil f this firm was very poor, and in many places o extremely wet, tiiat it had been the cause of ottino- several hundred sheep ; which was the irst circumstance that determined him, if possi- ble, to drain it; which he bcijan to do in 1764.* The field in wlrrh he beg'an, was of a wet clay oil, rendered almost a swamp (and, indeed, in ;ome pl.-tces, a shaking bog,) hy the sprinjfs issu- ng from a bank of gravel and sand adjoining it, ind overflowing the surface of the flay. In irder to drain this field, he cut a trench about our or five feet deep, a little below the upper ;ide of the bog, or where the wetness began to make its ap|iearanco ; and after proceeding with it so far in this direction, and at this depth, he found it did not reach the main hodij of subja- cent -cater, from whence the evil jiroceeded. On discovering this, Jlr. Elkington was at a loss how to proceed. .\t this time, while he was considering what was next to be done, one of his servants accidentally came to the field where the drain was making, with an iron crow, or bar, which the farmers in that county use iu making holes for fixing their sheep hurdles. — Mr. Elkington, having a suspicion that this drain was not deep enough, and being desirous of knowing what kind of strata lay under the bottom of it, took the iron bar from the servant and after having forced it^down about four feet below the bottom of the trench, on pulling it out, to his astonishment, a great quantity of wa- ter burst up through the hole he had thus made, and ran down the drain. This at once led him to the knowledge of wetness being often pro- duced by water condned farther below the sur- face of the ground than it was possible for the usual depth of drains to reach, and induced him to think of applying an auger, as a proper in- strument in such cases. Thus did the discovery originate from chance, the parent of many other useful arts ! Fortunate it is tor society, when such accidents happen to persons who have sense and judgment to avail themselves of the liints thus fortuitously given ! In this manner, he not only accomplished the drainage of this field, which soon rendered it completely sound, but likewise all the other wet ground on his farm. The success of this experiment soon extend- ed Mr. Elkington's fame, in the knowledge ot draining, from one part of the country to ano- ther; and alter having drained several farms in his neighborhood, with equal success, he at latl came to be very generally employed ; has been since, and is now (1797,) engaged in various parts of the kingdom, which shall be more par- ticularly noticed in the sequel. It is, indeed, now, impossible for him to execute half the * After the drainage of this field was completed, Mr. Elkington's flock was never afterwards affected with that disease. miploymcnt he has in hand, or to accept the Humorous offers that are every day made to lim. From his long practice and experience, le is now so successful in the works which he indertakes, and also in judging of the internal itrata of the earth, and nature of springs, that le can, with remarkable precision, judge where o find water, and where to trace the course of ij)rings that make no appearance on the surface )f the ground. The rules on which he nets. »ith regard to these discoveries, will be aftcr- w^irjs oxplaineil, in treating of the nature of wef grounds caused by springs. Lastly — Within these few years past, since kis practice has been so widely extended, and s) generally successful, he has drained, in vari- lus parts of England, particularly in the middle counties, many thousand acres of land; which, Vom being originally of little or no value, is low as productive as any in the kingdom, capa- Ue of producing the most valuable kinds of ly Ibis population of one liundred thousand souls, filly thousand at least must he employed. Thus nearly one third of the state arc interested in acipiiring ijorticultur- al information, in being taught to manage their gardens. Would you always continue in your present state of ignorance on these subjects ? Shall it be said that from .lune lo September in our scorching summers, a traveller may traverse Rlassachiisetts from Boston to Albany, and not be able to procure a plate of fruit, except wild strawberries, blackberries, and whortleberries, unless from the hospitality of private gentlemen? It is painful io reflect, that every cottager in Flanders, d'ermany, Holland and England, is bet- ter supplied with summer t'ruit than our most opulent farmers. This almost utter neglect of cultivating sum- mer and winter fruits, materially injures the health of our fanners. How mortifying to see the linest climate for the cultivation of the ap- ple, so undervalued, that many of our farmers are obliged to slice up Ibeir summer fruit, and suspend it in the front of their houses to dry, in order that they may have a com[>aratively in- sipid and tasteless provision for winter! Yet such is too often, 1 may say too generally, the case. The greatest benefit, however, which our farmers would derive from an attention lo gar- dening, would be the acquisition of habits of care and neatness, »vhich would be transferred to their farms. If each farmer would devote two acres to a garden, and lo line fruits, be would be com|)el- led lo be more careful in trimming his trees, in sowing his seeds, in keeping them free from weeds. The habits thus formed would extend tjirougbout his estate. Wc see Ibis elTecl in farmers near the great towns ; they learn to be their own grafters, and pruners, and their care of their general culture keeps pace wilh their progress in gardening. But perhaps it will be replied, we cannot af- ford the time ; it will be too expensive. What I cannot our farmers an'ord as much lime as the common labonrers of other countries who work from sunrise lo sunset for from thirty to forty cents per day ? No, this is not the real diffi- culty. It is that the ease of getting an ample support in this country relaxes our exertions. But the progress of inannfaclnres and population will soon bring about other babit«, and we hope I within a few years to see nurseries of the chet- i ry, and the [)each, and the pear, as well as of the apple, in all country towns, — though we think, not only that the last is far the most im- portant, but that it is with that our internal im- provements must coinmence. Till every far- mer can lay up his ten barrels of excellent win- ter apples for his own use, we shall not expect much progress in other branches of gardening." From the Acadian (Halifax) Recorder of June 21. DRILLING MATCH. On Friday last, the 13th inst. this match took place at Willowpark. .\t 10 o'clock the plough- men began lo muster, and by half past 1 1 all the prior arrangements were completed by the committee. The length of the field being CO rods, a breadth of 17i feet suflicient for seven drills, was measured off for each competitor. — Before starting, H. Yeomans, Esq. gave the six candidates who presented themselves, an oppor- tunity of drawing their respective tickets- marked in running numbers, and by which their lots was lo be ascertained. They then pro- ceeded lo adjust the jjoles to their own satisfac- tion, which had been previously set up under the inspection of J. Albro, Esq. the other gen- tleman of the committee. The rules prescribed to the workmen were simply these ; to draw on each lot seven drills at two feet Hnd a half apart, from centre to centre — to sink the plough to the depth of from G lo 7 inches — and last- ly, to execute with all dispatch, as time would be taken into account by the judges, all other circumstances being equal. Mr. Henry Oliver performed his task with the greatest expedi- tion, being linishcd in 1 hour 20 minutes, which was at the rate of an acre in 2 hours and a half; and the longest time taken by any of the others was 1 hour 55 min. — equal to 3 hours 3i;V niin. to the acre. Lot I was drilled in 1 hour 25 minutes, 2 do. do. 1 do. 50 do. 3 do. do. I do. 55 do. 4 do. do. 1 do. 50 do. 5 do. do. 1 do. 20 do. C do. do. 1 do. 52 do. This table is exhibited, and these facts men- tioned, to bear witness of the rapidity and exe- cution of which the drill system is susceptible. Three hours may be assumed as a fair medium in such a field for preparing an acre for the re- ception of the manure and the potaloe sets, and a similar portion of time will more than sullice to cover them in. According to this wav of reckoning, it will only take six hours to put aa .acre of potatoes into drills ; and allowing after- wards throe sc[)arale hoeings wilh the proper machinery at the rate of three hours each, al- together 15 hours, will be requisite lo cultivate an acre according lo the new plan. During the one half of this time a pair of horses, and during the other half a single horse only will be needed. There can be no comparison, on the score of cheapness, between Ibis and lliC old manner of raising potatoes with the hand hoe ; keeping out of view the more entire pnl verization, and the more thorough deslructiot of weeds eflectod by the implements. At half past one o'clock all the ploughs wen slopt as a preliminary lo Messrs. Ande'rson ant Blayse coming on the field as judges, to exam ine the work and determine the prizes. By i o'clock they gave in their report, which wai immediately handed lo his Excellency the Gov ernor, that he might deliver the medals am money lo the victors. The 1st prize, No. G, to Mr. John Baird, servant lo W. Lawson, Esq. a silver medal and £o jg ( The 2d prize. No. I, to Mr. Isaac Pringle, servant to Messrs. To- bins, a silver medal and 2 GO ( The 3d prize. No. 2, lo Mr. John Cliiie, Jr. a silver medal and i lo C His Excellency Ihen called for the Judges t( thank them for their attention, adding that he was satisfied they had determined according tc the best of their ability, and he trusted theii decision would be generally acceptable. On this drilling match "one observation de- serves lo be recorded. Three years ago whec this system of competition was" first proposed, the system of drilling was in its infancy; the workmen, wilh the exception of those "trainee in the mother country, were strikingly imper- lect. The method o( drawing straight lines by the erection of poles was unknown to most o) the natives of the country who had been accus- tomed to the use of the plough from their youth, and who reckoned themselves tolerable proli- cients. The first drilling match therefore on the peninsula gave evidence of this low state ol the art, among our native ploughman. A visi- ble improvement was effected in the second, but in the present one, which is the third, two Nova Scotians handled their implements with the skill ol a master, and one of them was for- tunate enough to carry off a prize. In fact, the very worst work done on last Friday was equal to the best of any of the for- mer exhibitions ; and the whole fielil, consisting of ten acres, fiO rods long, and 20 wide, and containing in all 128 drills, is a very creditable and even highly excellent specimen of what can be accomplished. Eight different plough- men have assisted in completing it, and'so straight are the rows and equidistant, that it appears lo be laid off rather by a garden line than by the free, ea.sy and unrestricted motion of the plough under the guidance of the eye. The Lothians of Scotland, where all the pro- cesses of tillage are carried lo the highest acme of perfection, can seldom present a liner and more finished display of drilling; and the curi- ous in the art would do well lo inspect the tield in question, as redounding much lo the honor of the performers. The minor societies should direct a part of their attention to this subject. They have with a commendable zeal, instituted ploughing .Matches every where, and have reported iiivor- I ably of the result ; it is now high lime, that ij drilling be more thoroughly understood in ihe j country ; for it is an inconteslible fact, that no man can be a first rate ploughman, who is ig- norant of this other art; nay more, that no field can be properly and skilfully tilled, unless Ihe ridges be ilrst raark'^d off by parallel lines at given distances, which lines must be drawn by NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 413 tlie aid of poles on the same general principles, .mnrkably free from weeds, the field was laid On all these accounts, it is highly deserving of doivn with clover and other grass seeds, and cultivation, consequently of the patronage of the societies. Let them give it countenance, and in a short time the youths of the country will he able to enter the lists and stand a competition with the drillers of G. Britain who are amongst them. JOHN YOUNG, Secrclanj. POT AND PEARL ASHES. In one of the late numbers of Tilloch's Philo «ophical Magazine, is the following paragraph, announcing a discovery, which, if real, ma; have a serious effect on the commerce and pui- guits of many in the United States. " 1 observed, says he, many years ago, thnt I expected to see the powers of galvanism, in one shape or other, a necessary a(ipendage lo the apparatus of every bleach lielil. Subse- quently, 1 stated that 1 considered all alkalies, alkaline earths and substances, were modilic;,- tions of the same base, and that, one day 1 hopc^ lo see our potash taken from the lime rock of our own soil, instead of deflagrating the woojs of .America. After many varied experiments, 1 have completely succeeded, and have now reu- dcrcd myself and my country, so far as regards bleaching, perfectly independent of every foi- eign aid, and at an expense comparatively tril- ling." = GLUE. It has been erroneously staled in the public papers, that India rubber will make good glue ; but it will never harden. For a strong, firm, cheap glue, nothing has yet been discovered su- perior to the best kind of that which is in gen- eral use ; and for a tine, clear, and transparent kind, which will even unite glass so as to ren- der the fracture almost imperceptible, nothing is equal to isinglass boiled in spirits of wine.' Amcr. Farmer. NEW ENGLAND FAR3IER7 SATUliDAY, JULY 26, 1823. ed a " Plough Cleaner," invented by Mr. Jo- seph Kersey, of Pennsylvania, of which we the ensuing crops proved inlinitely liner than I have given a drawing and description in page those before the ground was broken up. Another piece of ground was cropped for three successive }'ears in the same manner as the lirst, to which it was similar in every res- pect of soil, aspect, and previous management, but in which the stubble was ploughed in, in- stead of being burned ; the produce of each crop on it was much interior to that of the first ex- periment, and the weeds increased so greatlj', that in laying it down to grass, they quite over- powered the grass seeds, so much so, that it was necessary to re-sow ii ; and ever after, while Mr. Curtis held it, the grass and hay pro- duced wore coarse and lull ol weeds ; and con- sequently inferior both in value and quantity to those of the other held, on which the stubble had been burned. It ma}', perhaps, be well in burning stubble fields, not only lo mow the verges or borders of the fields, and rake the proceeds inwards to- wards the centre of the fields, but to trace a furrow round the whole, and set your tire inside of the furrow. A calm afternoon, towards sun- set, should be preferred, when the wind will not be apt to rise, and cause damage by the tire. We do not learn what was the nature of the soil on which the experiments of Mr. Curtis were made ; and should not, therefore, recom- mend a similar practice on all soils, for general adoption, at least without further trials on a small scale. If the crop of grain was on a stilV stony soil, or on land which presents material impediments to the plough, the stubble should in some way be got rid of, before any attempt is made to plough the field. Dr. Deane advised to dispose of the stubble on still' lands by mow- ing it, and carrying it to the farm yard. For " such land, when ploughed, is not apt to cover the stubble so closely as to cause it speedily to putrefy. It will often lie in a sound unaltered state for a long time, and be very troublesome at the next ploughing. IJutif the ground should be seeded after one ploughing, it might be ex- pected the stubble would render the land so hollow and cavernous as to starve man}' of the plants that grow on the surface. At the same time these hollows would be receptacles for noxious insects and vermin. But in a light sandy soil, the stubble is soon reduced to a condition In such a soil it would. Farmer's and Gardener''s Remembrancer. JULY. Stvbble Fields. — As soon as you have com- pleted your harvesting, plough your stubble fields. You may plough in your stubble, or jou may burn it off and then plough the land. The last mode of proceeding has been recommended i to nourish vegetables." by English writers. They say that the ashes therefore, probably be best to plough in the aifords a good dressing to the soil, the heat de- stroys insects, and the fire, by burning the stub ble, removes an impediment to the plough. We Iiavc heretolore taken notice of an experiment, which proved the advantages of this mode of proceeding, in our first No. page 6. But as we have readers, who, probably, have not seen or taken particular notice of that article, we will repeat the substance of it. Mr. \V. Curtis, of Lynn, Norfolk, found very beneficial effects from burning the stubble of oats, which was left eighteen inches high for that purpose. On a field broken up from old pasture the same year, he afterwards sowed wheat and oats in succes- sion on the same ground, the stubble of both which was burned in the same manner. The ashes, in every case, were ploughed in, to a small depth, and the verges of the fields mowed to prevent accidents. After the third crop of corn [grain] all of wluch was abundant and re stubble as soon as possible after harvest, before the sun and wind has robbed it of all its juices, and taken away its power to enrich the soil. It has been recommended previous to plough- ing in stubble to pass a heavy roller over the field to lay the stubble flat on the surface. If this expedient is adopted, great care should be taken to pass the roller the same way the plough is to go. Others advise to annex a small roller to the fore end of the plough beam. A foot piece, or piece of timber, with a mortice in it, through which the fore end of the plough beam is passed, so that the piece of timber stands perpendicular, and the lower end scrapes along on the ground, may be so contrived as to regulate the depth of ploughing, make it uni- form, and at the same time greatly assist in clearing the way before the coulter. But we believe the most effectual contrivance for pre- venting a plough from clogging, is what ts call- 107 of our paper. It consists of a piece of tim- ber, pinned to the plough beam, just before the <;oullcr, with a slatf or handle attached to its upper end, so placed as to come "within reach of the ploughman, who by pulling the handle, turns the piece of limber on the pin, and causes the lower cud to scrape the ground just before the coulter, and thus remove stubble, weeds, and other obstacles to smooth ploughing. This is as simple as it is useful, and has, wc are told, been used for several years io Pennsylvania, and found " very convenient." H.-iRROvv, Roll, and Top Dress vovr Mowing Ground. — Mowing land, after it has been laid down a few years to grass, becomes bound, or too thickly swarded, and will produce but little. It may not always be convenient, and is often not advisable, to break it up. In such case, after a plentiful rain, go over your mowing ground with a scarifier, spiking roller, or heavy loaded harrow. Then dress it with some kind of com- [lost in which earth is a principal ingredient. Next pass a heavy roller over the land, imless it be uneven or stony, in which a roller would prove of little erno benefit. Half rotted strawy manure, spread on grass ground is of little ser- vice, and the dung of swine or of horses thus applied, will be dried up by the sun and air with but little benefit to the soil or to the crop. If you have on your premises a pond or mud hole, the bed of which is partly uncovered in a dry season, you may take the first leisure time after haying and harvesting, either to cart it into your barn yard, oi spread it on your grass ground. It has been recommended by writers, as well as practical farmers, to apply your ma- nure to grass land, especially where a second crop is expected, immediately after mowing the first crop. But in such case it will not an- swer a good purpose to make use of unmixed dung, or what is called putrescent manure of any kind, as the sun will not only dry it up, hut scorch the grass. Compost manure, ashes, soot, &,c. loose little if any thing by exposure to the air, hut spreading unmixed dung on grass land is a very extravagant way of using it. S.4VE YOUR Summer Manure. — Wherever jour cattle are confined every night, as is advisable, it will be but little labor to shovel the manure ever}' morning into a heap or heaps, which should be immediately covered with fresh earth, peat, or some other substance which will pre- vent its being dried up bj- the sun, or washed away by the rain. If you keep a horse or horses in a stable, or soil your cattle, it will often pay (or the labor to mix earth every day or two with the fresh manure, which will pre- vent any part of it from being lost by evapora- tion. Place a few loads of earth near the place where your stables are emptied, or in the en- closure where your cattle are yarded, and from time to time mix such earth with the fresh dung, which will prevent its being weakened, rlried, or washed away. If you keep your swine confined in pens, you should be careful as you empty their styes to mix earth with the manure thus obtained. Horse manure, more particu- larly, will ho-it, or become " fire langed," as it is calb'd, without such precau'ion. You may have first a layer of earth, tlun of manure, and then again of earth. Sir John Sinclair saya, 414 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. *' In farm yards, where there is an opportunity of making cattle, horse, and hoij dung, it is al- wa^'S to be preferreil. as tlie one corrects tlie defects of the other, and prevents the ferment- ing process from going too rapidly forward. — These substances should be laid slralmn super stratum, [one layer above another] which can easily be done every day, when the stable*, cow house?, and hog styes are cleaned out. If a little eartii can be put between each stiatum, so much the better." Even in your pastures, if you have plenty of help, or boys who run the risk of being idle, it will be best, especially near watering places, places where your cattle are sailed, &c. to gather tVequcntly their drop- pings into little heaps, and cover them with earth, or sods of grass, with the grass side down. The whole may be carted to your large manure heaps, compost beds, stcrcoraries, &.c. or applied, if sudiciently rotted or fermented, to your grass ground, as a top dressing in au- tumn. This ivould be what we call neat fann- ing, and a slovenly farmer will not thrive. Do NOT FOHCET TO GIVE SaI.T TO VOIR CaTTI-E, Horses .4nd Sheep. — One would think that for- eign writers had not, till within a few years, been aware of the use of salt as an article in the diet of domestic animals. Sir John Sinclair (Code of .Agriculture, page 56) mentions it as somelliiug remarkable, that "in America, salt is given to cows, oxen, horses and to'lieep, but not to pigs." He also says that " lumps of rock salt might be kept in troughs, protected against the eflects of rain in the lieids, by covers, but accessible to sheep or cattle." It appears that a patent has been obtained by Messrs. IMartin and Co. in England, for a peculiar mode of pre- paring salt in large cakes, by which it is ren- dered less liable to melt and waste by rain than common salt. It is recommended to allow calves, especially, to have constant access to tine salt, to be kept in a trough near them, sep- arate from their other food. It is said that it prevents and cures the rot and flukes in sheep ; and prevents injury to stock by moist feed. Likewise, when horses are alflicted with saliva- tion, or a running of saliva Irom their mouths, salt will mitigate if not cure their complaint. Some writers say that twice a week during the summer is often enough to give salt to any do- mestic animals. Sir John Sinclair asserts that " the quantity given in spring, summer, and au- tumn, to oxen and milch cows, is about a quart to each every two or three days, in very hot weather. In cooler seasons it is only given once a week." We are inclined to think this a liberal allowance. But if salt is kept in troughs under cover, where they can have free access to it, we do not believe they would be apt to con- sume more than would prove lor their benefit. Late Teas. — We thirdi it very possible that peas may be raised, by pro|)er management, during the whole summer, and till severe frosls commence in autumn. The evil, which has usually attended late sown peas, and rendered it impracticable to raise them to much advan- tage after about mid-summer, has been their lialiility to mildew or rust. " Both in Europe and America, the pea sowed for an autumnal crop, is generally, we might sa}' almost univer- sally, subject to mild'jw, so that ue cannot en- joy this delicious green vogelablc for more (ban two months in the year." A very valuable, pa- per •' On the prevention of Mildew, in particu- I lar cases : by Thomas Andrew Knight, Esq'r. j F. R. S. &c. &.C. President of the London Horti- 1 cultural Society," was pijhiished in London, and 1 re-published in the last No. of the Massachu- I setts Agricultural .lournal. The author of this , |)aper adopts the opinion of the venerable Pre- j sident 'f the Royal .Society (the late Sir Joseph Banks) that mildew is a species of plant, which botanists call fungus, and which grows on wheat, peas, some sorts of grass, &.c. and robs them of a part ol their nourishment. That this plant has its seeds, like other plants, which seeds are excessively light and capable of being dispersed every where by the wind. The author then proceeds to point out the means by which the injurious effects of the common white mildew may be in particular cases prevented, as fol- lows : " The secondary, and immediate causes of this disease have long appeared to me to be the ^■aiit of a sufficient supply of moisture from the soil, with excess of humidity in the air, particu- larly if the plants be exposed to a temperature below that to which they have been accustom- ed. If damp and cold weather in July succeed that which is warm and bright, without suffi- cient rain to moisten the ground to some depth, the wheat crop is generally injured by mildew. I suspect thai in such cases, an injurious ab- sorption of moisture by the leaves and stems of the wheat plants takes place ; and I have prov- ed, that under similar circumstances much wa- ter will be absorbed by the leaves of trees, and carried duwnzcanls through their aW7irnous sub- stance ; though it is certainly through this sub- stance that the sap rises under other circum- stances. If a branch be taken from a tree when its leaves are mature, and one leaf be kept con- stantly wet, that leaf will absorb moisture, and supply another leaf below it upon the branch, even tbougii all communication between thoni through the bark be intersected; and if a simi- lar absorption takes place in the straws of wheal or the stems of other plants, and a rctrogTade motion of the fluids be produced, I conceive that the ascent of the true sap, or organizahle matter, into the seed vessels, must be retarded, and that it may become the food of the para- sitical plants, which then only may grow luxu- riant and injurious. "This view of the subject, whether true or false, led me to the following method of culti- vating the pea, late in autumn, by which my table has been as abundantly supplied during the months of September and October, as in June or July, and my plams have been as near- ly free from inilden'. " The ground is dog in the usual way, and the spaces, which will be occupied by the fu- ture rows are well soaked with water; the mould upon each side is then collected so as to form ridges seven or eight inches above the 'previous level of the ground, and then are well 1 watered, .\lter which, the seeds are sowed in single rows along the tops of the ridges. The plants ver}' soon appear above the surface, and grow with much vigor, owing to the great depth of the soil and abundant moisture. Water is given rather prolusely once a week, or nine days, even if the weather proves showery. — Under this mode of management the plants will remain perfectly green and luxuriant till the young blossoms and the seed vessels are de- stroyed by frost, and their produce will retain its proper flavor which is always taken away by mildew. The pea which 1 have planted for autumnal crops is a very large kind, of which the seeds are much shrivelled, and which grows very high. It is now very common in the shops of London, and my name has been, I believe, generally attached to it. [It is well known bv us by the same name, and is an excellent late rariety. — Kd. .Ig. Journal.] 1 prel'er this vari- tty, because it is more sweet than any other, iiud retains its flavor better late in autumn. It is my custom to sow some of it every ten days, and I rarely ever fail of having my table sup- {lied till the end of October." CLOSE OF THE FIRST VOLUME. The present number completes Ihe first vol- ume of the New England Farmer, and with the njfext we shall commence a second volume, with renovated exertions, and hopes invigorated by some degree of apparent success, which has at- tended our past labors. We are told that our efforts have been in some measure acceptable, aid the cheering sound of " well done," will excite us to summon all our powers, and put all our faculties in requisition to render ourselves 4ill more " useful to the farming interest." — Xew sources of agricultural information are daily unfolding before us, and all that our in- dustry can accomplish, aided by an undissembleil fondness for the science and predilection for the pursuits of the art which is paramount to all other arts, we unhesitatingly promise to per- form. The Editor hopes and expects to be able hereafter, as long as the patronage of the public and his own capacity for intellectual toil shall continue, to devote himself 7>iorc entirely to the object of rendering his paper worthy of the approbation of the enlightened cultivator, than has hitherto been practicable. He pro- poses to explore new fields of agricultural in- lormation, with an inquisitive, if not with a dis- cerning eye, and the result of his researches will be faithfully submitted to the consideration of that greatest and most important class in the community, to whose interests the New Eng- land Farmer is principally devoted. As he con- tinues his -work he promises every endeavor to become a better workman, and hopes eventu- ally to become a prnflable, as he proposes to be a diligent laborer in the great field of Agriculture. We respectlully solicit the continuance of the favors of correspondents, and return our sincere thanks for such as we have already received. We wish to collect for the use of the public, ihe fruits of actual experience. Theories and in- genious speculations may be useful, but facts ju- diciously selected and accurately reported must he uiful. We likewise are very solicitous not to publish any thing which may ini^lead the prac- tical farmer. Our intentions are upright ; but " to err is human." For instance, should the Editor, or any of his correspondents, recom- mend any plant, or any process of cultivation, which any of our friends, who are better iu- NEW ENGLAND FARMER. 415 Formed on the subject, know or believe not to be useful, it might be rendering a service to the public, and would certainly be very accejjt- ^ble to us, to point out our mistake, which sh.i!! jc promptly and thankl'ully corrected. The Index to the first vulume will be pub- ished in a few days, and immediately forward- ;d to those who have taken all the numbers. The .Spanish forces appear to be scattered like flocks of sheep without shcpl^erds. The Spanisli commanrters have as little efficiency or concert as so many bfll irilh- ers. The new Spanish government is organized under t'rtnch auspices at Madrid, has passed several decrees, and appointed ambassadors to the courts of Europe. — The road to Seville, the new capital, appears to lie open to the march of the French armies, and wliat is called the cause of legitimacy seems every where to triumph. — Portugal. — In this country a counter-revolution com- A few of our subscribers have requested to menccd on the 27th of May, under a certain General named Sepuleda. The young l-'rince, at tlie liead of a regiment of troops, marched into Lisbon on the od of lave the paper discontinued at the close of the irst volume, who have neglected to pay for it ; jut it is our invariable rule not to discontinue my paper imtil all arrearages are paid. INFORMATIO.N WANTED. A friend of the Editor is solicitous to he informed at vhat time in the year it would be ni.^st advisable to ;ut cktsnul icoui., designed lor fencing, in order that he timber, and especially that part of the posts, which s set in the ground, may possess the greatest durabili- y. Mr. Preston of Pennsylvania, in las valuable com- aiinicatiotf published in our paper, No. 45, page 354, ntimates that hemlock cut and peeled at the season of ts peeling the second time, or in October, will be the aost durable. Perhaps he may be able, and will be o good as to inform whether the same rule will apply o chesnut. And it may be that some other gentlemen ■iendly to the farming interest, will favor us with their xperience or opinions on this subject, which would be hankfiilly received, and may j.rove beneficial to thei :ommunity. FOREIGN. The last arrivals from Europe have brought advices rom London to the 8th, Lisbon the loth, aMl Paris he 5th of June. From these it should seem liiat the Vench have apparently succeeded in re-establishing he ancient order of things in Spain, and the hopes of he Constitutionalists are blasted, and the fears of the riends of liberty realized. We have another " con- irmation strong" that an ignorant and superstitious leople cannot be a free people. 'l'h;.t knowledge is ecpssary for the enjoyment of rational liberty : and a iger loi.s^d from his chains is not nnre incapable of eil-governmeQt than the highest and the lowest orders if the people in Spain. The middle class appears to vant union, n-imber, ene.;;y, courage, and persever- ince, and this attempt to shake off their shackles, will, *e fear, end in the addition of heavier and stronger ucumbrances. Should we attempt to give details of what are styled ' War operatio'.s in Spain," we should fill our column vith petty alfairs of posts and skirmishes, which end in lOthing but submission to the will of dictators, who lave succeeded in dragooning Spain into that despot- sm which she would have escaped if she had not nier- ted it. It was not the will of the Spaniards to be free, lad therefore they are not free. They court their ;hain5, and love darkness better than light ; they must .herefore remain the unpitied victims of tyi'anny and jigotry, and will probably sink the deeper in the mire >f despolisoi in consequence of their late feeble and in- •Ifectual struggles to place themselves on high ground, ind gain a respectable standing among powerful and :ivillzed nations. On the 20th of May, the French army appeared be- fore Madrid, in consequence of a previous convention hat it should enter the city. But this was not effected peaceably as had been anticipated. The French ac- :ount states that the men, women, and children, who went to meet and welcome General Bessieres, the Royalist commander, were fired upon from two masked cannon loaded with grape, and were charged by the Constitutional cavalry, when nearly three hundred of these poor people, composing fathers, n^others, brothers and sisters, many of them mere children, were massa- cred without pity, &c. The Spanish accounts make the Royalists the aggressors, and tell us that General Bessieres declared that he was accustomed to victory, and determined to enter ^Tadrid, even if he must do it by main force. A general action ensued, in which the Spaniards lost 00 killed, and 700 made prisoners and wounded. .lune, and was welcomed by the people with the cry of long live the King." The Cortes were dissolved and fled. The next day the King denounced the Cortes as a set of usurpers and hypocrites, and proclaimed their dissolution as a body. lie likewise issued a proclama- tion announcing the restoration of the Ancient Monar- chy. This counter-revolution suits the highest and lowest classes of the people, viz. the froth and the dregs of the community. But the middling class, the .^armers, and others of the more substaiilial part of so- ciety, are greatly dissatisfied. Several of the most ac- tive members of the Cortts have embarked for England. An arrival at New York from Gibraltar, has brought papers from the last mentioned place to the 7th June. These furnish articles from Seville of somewhat later date than had been received when the above was written. There are some glimmerings of hope for the Spaniards, derived from this news, which, perhaps, may brighten into sunshine. The French and Span- iards have had an encounter at Talavera, in which the latter conducted with gallantry, and gave their oppo- nents a sample of the times, when Bonaparte was baf- fled, and his troops taught " the manual exercise of heels." It was, however, but a brush. The loss of the Spaniards was "confined to 10 or 12 wounded," and that of the French was said to be greater, but pro- bably did not amount to any considerable number. AGRICULTURAL PREMIUM, FOR THE BEST MANAGED FARM. AT a meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Massa- chusetts Society for promoting .\griculture, held at the President's, 12th July, 1823, it was \'oTKD, That this Society will grant as a premium lo the owner of Ike best cultivated Farm within the pre- cincts of the tereral ^'igricultural Societies of the Stale, the sum of Thirty Dollars each, in addition to the pre- mium which may have been awarded the claimant by the local Society ; and that it will accept, as full evi- dence of the merit of the claimant, a certificate signed by the President of the local Society, certifying that such person was declared by the Society or their Trus- tees, entitled to the premium within that district ; — . that the applicant shall, however, in all cases, be held to exhibit to this Society, a statement of the extent of his farm ; the state and plan of his farming buildings ; his mode of collecting and managing manure ; the number of domestic animals usually supported thereon ; tlie quantity and quality of land under cultivation, and his usual mode of culture, as well as the average a- mount of his crops, of all sorts. A copv irom the record, DENJ. GUILD, Assistant Re^g Sec'y. July 18, 1823^ fJi/'-'OB PRINTING neatly executed at the Farmer Otfice, on reasonable terms. PRICES OF COUNTRY PRODUCE, fcc. [Revised and corrected every Friday. DOMESTIC. The Sea Serpent again exhibited himself on the 12th inst. "near Naliant, with his usual bunches and other appendages and appurtenances " resembling a row of porpoises, proceeding with an undulating motion like that of a caterpillar," fcc. He was seen, and his ap- pearance attested to by Francis Johnson, Jr. Mr. J. 'a testimony on this subject was given in presence of some ^'ery respectable gentlemen in tliis vicinity, viz. H. A. S. Dearborn, Natlianiel Amory, Sidney Bartlett, Rich- ard D. Karris, Thomas V\ hitmore and Russel Jarvis; and these gentlemen have published a certificate, that from their knowledge of the character of Mr. Johnson, they have no doubt of his veracity. Serpents of this species are no strangers on the coast of Norway. The old editions of Guthiie's Geography mention their ap- pearance, as well as many other and later authors, whose testimony, in corroboration with what has been frequently seen off our own coast, must render the ex- istence of this species of monster no longer doubtful. Thunder Slorm. — On the 11th inst. Northampton and the towns in its vicinity were visited with a vio- lent storm of thunder and lightning. The house of Mr. A. Wright, of Westhampton, was struck, and the timbers, partitions, 100 panes of glass, and much of the furniture were broken. There were ten persons in the house, but providentially only one, a lad, was injured. He was knocked down, had his hat rent, his jacket and shirt lorn, and his flesh singed ; but has now the appearance of recovery. A house in Chesterfield was struck in the same storm, and much injured. Fires. — A fire took place in Pbiladelphia on the 17th inst. which destroyed eleven two-story frame houses, with all the back buildings, stables and sheds in Cal- low hill and Kunkle streets. A paper ware house, owned by the Bank of North America, a tobacconist factory, a chocolate factory, and a large tavern, were amongt the buildings consumed. A range of buildings in Albany was destroyed by fire OH the 13th inst. Loss estimated at from 12 to 15.000 dollars. ASHES, pot, 1st qual. . . pearl do. . . . BEANS, white, .... BEEF, mess, 20O cwt. . . cargo. No 1, . " No2, . . . BUTTER, inspect. 1st qual. " 2d qual. small kegs, family, CHEESE, new milk . . . FLAX . T .T . "". . . FLAX SEED . . . . . FLOUR, Baltimore, superfine, Genessee . . . Rye, best . . . GRAIN, Rye .... Corn .... Barley .... Oats HOGS' LARD, 1st sort . . HOPS, No 1, LIME, OIL, Linseed, American . . PLAISTER PARIS .... PORK, Navy Mess .... Bone Middlings . . . Cargo, No 1, . . . Cargo, No 2, ... SEEDS, Herd's Grass . . • Clover WOOL, Merino, full blood,v\'ashed do do unwashed do 3-4 washed do 1-2 do Native .... do Pulled, Lamb's, 1st sort do Spinning, 1st sort PROJ'ISIOJ'r MARKET. BEEF, best pieces .... PORK, fresh VEAL, LAME, per quarter .... POULTRY, BUTTER, keg & tub ... lump, best . . . EGGS, MEAL, Rye, Indian, POTATOES, CIDER, liquor, HAY, best, bush tbi lb. busl bbl. bush lb. cask al. ton. bbl. bush lb. FROM D. C 135 00 145 00 90 9 00 8 25 6 76 11 9 13 1 Ih. doz. bush bbl. ton, 8 2 12 00 14 5(J 12 00 11 00 2 00 8 55 4(3 50 4i 37 55 50 TO D. C. I 00 9 50 8 50 7 00 12 10 14 8 9 80 7 87 7 87 4 75 70 60 70 37 11 12 1 37 00 3 00 12 50 15 00 12 50 II 50 9 60 50 55 47 40 60 55 8 10 7 8 6 8 30 Ai 10 14 13 14 18 20 14 15 75 SO 75 45 47 1 5(> 2 25 18 00 22 00 416 NEW ENGLAND FARMER. SONNET. I dreamed — I saw a little rosy child, With flaxen ringlets, in a garden playing ; Now stooping here, and then afar off straying, As flower or butterfly his feet btgiiiPd. 'Twas chang'd ; one summer's day I stepp'd aside, To let him pass ; his face had manhood's seeming, And that full eye of blue was fondly beaming On a fair maiden, whom he call'd " his bride P' Once more ; 'twas evening, and the cheerful fire I saw a group of youthful forms surrounding, The room with harmless pleasantry resounding ; And ID the midst I marked the smiling Sire. — The heavens were clouded I — and I heard the tone Of a blow moving bell — the white hair'd man was gone I BERNARD BARTON, Alias the Quaker Poet, with whose charming productions our columns have been freinicnt- ly enriched, is not one who mcclianicaily strinsjs verses togctiicr, but a writer of genuine poetry. And hoivevcr paraiioxical it may appear to those who can relish nothing but what savors of titled rank, it is nevertiieless true that Barton lias pre- sented the literary world with some getns from Parnassus which sparkle with a brilliancy not often surpassed. In speakins; of the poets of the present day, in " A Sketch of Old England, by a New England Man,"' the author of that most excellent work, which ought to be read by every American, says — "(There is one modest bard here, that de- serves to be mentioned as a noveltv. I mean the Quaker, Bernard Barton, who has been moved lately by the spirit of poetry. As might be ex- pected, he writes with sweetness, simplicity and good sense ; the two latter very rare com- modities at present in poetry, vrhen the bards of England go abroad to write, and bring home all the fervid heats of a tropical sun, backed by the scorching sirocco of the desert, to excite us in- to a proper degree of poetical enthusiasm, — Friend Bernard's poetry is tender without ex-- aggeration, and simple without childishness. His Pegasus is neither an elephant, a camel, nor a dromedary, but a horse of good prxe and habits. In a better age of poetry he would be more admired. As it is, his .^lusc wants a feiv of the buttons of the honourable l>and of gen- tlemen pensioners to make her shine, and is, moreover, ralher drab-colurcd for the present 6usby taste." PUNCTUALITY. President Washington was the most punctual man in the observance of appointments, ever known to the writer, lie delivered his commu- nications to Congress, at the opening of each session, in person, lie always a])pointed the hour of twelve ;it noon for this purpose : and he never failed to enter the hall ot (.'ongress whila. the State-house clock was striking llie hour. llis invitations- to dinner were ahvavs given ihr four o'clock, i'. M. He allowed IJve minutes for the variation of time-pieces ; and he waited no longer for any one. Certain lagginsf mem- bers of Congress sometimes come in when din- ner was nearly half over. The writer has heanl the President say to them, with a smile, "Clen- tlemen, we are too punctual for yon — 1 have a cook who never asks whether the company has Gome, liut whether the hour has come."' From the N. York Medical and Physical Journal. PIGEONS. Extract from " Remarks on the Columba Migra- toria, or Passenger Pigeon,'''' by the Hon. De Witt Clinton. The Columba Migratoria, or Passenger Pi- geon, is a bird peculiar to North America. It extends its migrations from Hudson's bay to the gulf of IMexico. and it occupies occasionally that vast region which reaches from the gulf of St. Lawrence to the Rocky Mountains. Its change of residence is not owing to the influence of heat or cold, of rain or drought, but is made with a view to the acquisition of lood. The vast flocks in which this bird congregates, are unequalled as to extent. La Hontan says that the bishop of Canada has been forced to exor- cise them oftener than once, on account of the damage they do to the products of the earth. — Weld, an English traveller, speaks of a flock eighty miles long, flying over lake Ontario ; and Wilson, the great ornithologist, estimates one seen in Kentucky 2 10 miles long, a mile broad, and containing 2,2.30,272,000 pigeons, which would consume on a moderate allowance 17,121,000 bushels of mast, [beech nuts and acorns] a day. The gregarious habits and vast flocks of this bird will of course occasion a correspondent consumption of food ; and it is therefore com- pelled to be constantly erratic, and to he among the feathered race what the nomades [wander- ing shepherds] are among mankind. The rapi- dity of its flight is superior to that of the carrier pigeon, which has been known to pass from St. Edmundsbury to London in two hours and a halt". At this rate, the Passenger Pigeon can travel seven hundred miles in twenty-four hours ; and at the rate of a mile a minute, the same distance in less than twelve hours ; — and this velocity may account for undigested rice being found in its craw six hundred miles from the rice fields : but as this has been observed in the spring of the year, it must have been derived in that case from the gleanings of a former season, or pro- cured at a greater distance, or confounded with the zizania aquatica of the western waters. — The favorite ibod of this bird is the beech nut, and it preiers to establish its roosting quarters and its breeding place within the reach of this aliment. It also subsists on the acorn, chesnut, wild cherry, seeds of the red maple, and of some weeds, poke, and other kinds of berry, buckwheat, and the principal cerealia [grain.] It resorts to the sea-shore and the salines of the west for salt, and it is frequently seen at the mineral springs of Saratoga enjoying the luxury of the waters. MISAPPLICATION. The following very good advice is extracted from Cicero's celebrated treatise De Officiis. Two faults are to be avoided in the truly honorable and natural investigation of knowl- edge and science. The first is, that we sliould not take hypothesis for facts, and inconsiderate- ly give them our assent. The other is, that many bestow too great labor on points obscure and (lifhcull, and at the same time unnecessary. Which faults avoided, whatever diligence and care may be bestowed on subjects honorable and worth acquiring, will meet with just com- mendation. RUINS OF BALBEC. Dr. Richardson, who visited the ruins of the magnificent temple at Balbec, in Syria, in his late travels, is of opinion that this was first built by Solomon, and rebuilt by the Romans. The workmanship of the bottom stones is similar to that of some that were cut at Jerusalem in the time of ihat king. In the walls of this temple are some of the heaviest stones that were ever moved by human hands nr human machiner}'. — . Dr. R. measured one stone which was G7 feet long, 11 broad, and l' feet thick; two others were nearly of the same dimensions, and the three were placed more than 20 feet above the t'oundation. In no other building on earth can such ponderous masses be loiind. This tem[de has been a place both of pagan and christian worship. The ruins are about 40 miles north of Damascus. " I think there are two periods in the life of man in which the evening hour is peculiarly in- teresting— in youth and in old age. In youth we love it for its mellow moonlight, its million stars, its then rich and soothing shades, its still serenity; amid these we can commune with our loves, or twine the wreaths of friendship, while there is none to bear us witness but the heavens and the spirits that hold their endless sabbaths there — or look into the deep bosom of creation, spread abroad like a canopy above us, and look and listen till we can almost see and hear the waving wings and melting songs of other be- ings in other worlds — to youth the evening is delightful, it accords with the flow of his light spirits, the fervor of his fancy, and the softness of his heart. Evening is also the delight to virtuous age — it aS"or(ls hours of undisturbed contemplation — it seems an emblem of the calm and tranquil close of busy life — serene, placid, and mild, with the impress of its great Creator stamped upon it; it spreads its quiet wings over the grave, and seems to promise that all shall be peace beyond it."' USEFUL INVENTION. M. Farkas de Farkasalva, in Hungary, has in- vented a machine by which a person may plunge to the bottom of the sea, walk at the bottom, work with hands and feet, ascend easily to the surface, or stop in the middle, without any help; and in this manner remain several days under water, without intermission and without elTort. It costs about £i)0, and only emfiloys two men. A GUN DI.SCHARGED. We remember to have heard a good story relating to one Alexander Gun, who belonged to the Customs at Edinburg, and was dismissed tor improper conduct. The entry opposite his name in the books stood thus: '-A Gun discharg- ed for making- a false report." TERMS OF THE FARMER. 0:5= Published every Saturday, at Three Dollars per annum, payable at the end of the year — but those who pay within sixty days from the time of subscribing will be entitled to a diduction of Fifty Cents. 0:5= No paper will be discontinued (unless at thei discretion ol the Publisher) until arrearages are paid. 0:5" Agents who procure seven subscribers, and be- come responsible for the payment, will be entitled to a copy giatis, and in the same proportion for a larger^ number. V i '^ OhClS«