FROM THE LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

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LONDONt H
OXFOKI) I

"The Daguerreotype process — the first
'practical' method of taking pictures by the
chemical action of light — was invented by
Daguerre and Niepce in France and made
sensitive enough for taking human portraits
by Dr. Draper of New York, 1840.

This 'Daguerreotype' was taken with elec-
tric-arc-light, at the instance of Professor B.
SiUiman, Jr., in 1850 or 1851 by a New Haven
photographer in the Yale College Laboratory
— in, I think, the summer of 1851 —

S. W. Johnson, Jan. 1897."

FROM THE LETTER-FILES
OF S. W. JOHNSON

Professor of Agricultural Chbmistry
IN Yale University, 1856-1896

Director of the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment
Station, 1877-1900

Edited by His Daughter
ELIZABETH A. OSBORNE

NEW HAVEN: YALE UNIVERSITY PRESS

LONDON: HUMPHREY MILFORD

OXFORD UNIVERSITY PRESS

MCMXIII

copykight, 1918
By Yale University Press

First printed December, 1000 copies

3t A\

TO

THE BUILDERS OF THE BROAD. FIRM HIGHWAYS THAT

NOW CROSS THE LONELY PLACES WHERE PROFESSOR

JOHNSON TOILED AND TO THE MAN WHOSE WORK

WAS THE JOY OF HIS OLD AGE

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PREFATORY NOTE

I acknowledge with gratitude the helpful Mndnesses
of many busy men. In the preparation of the narra-
tive supplementing these letters of my father and his
friends I have availed myself of material gathered
from the writings of men of science whose names
either figure in these pages or are well known to
present-day workers in our Agricultural Colleges and
Stations. In a few instances I have borrowed not
only the spirit, but the letter of their text — lest through
clumsy transposition an expression should lose its
clearness. Whenever possible, I have asked permis-
sion for my action. The cordial assent given in each
case emboldens me to request the few with whom I
have been unable to communicate to accept my thanks
and this general acknowledgment.

E. A. 0.

CONTENTS

Introduction 1

Chapteb I.

Childhood and Education in America ... 6

Chapter II.

Life and Study in Europe 38

Chapter III.

New York State Agricultural Society: The
University of Albany : Yale Scientific School 80

Chapter IV.

Connecticut State Agricultural Society . . 104

Chapter V.

Sheffield Scientific School : ' ' How Crops Grow ' ' 132

Chapter VI.

Connecticut State Board of Agriculture . . 162

Chapter VII.

The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Sta-
tion 192

Chapter VIII.

Emeritus 257

Appendices 269

ILLUSTRATIONS

S. W. Johnson, Aged 21 - - - - Frontispiece

Bulletin 0pp. p. 204

S. W. Johnson, Aged 71 - - - - 0pp. p. 257

FROM THE LETl^ER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

INTRODUCTION

The newness of much that seems to us to have always
been comes at times as a surprise, and sets our minds
to work in an effort to realize the environment of our
immediate forebears at a time when ideas now accepted
as fundamental axioms were the glad tidings of a new
gospel of knowledge and truth. Only sixty years ago,
a little band of friends, born in America and trained in
good part in the universities of Germany, was laying
here in the new world the foundations of the great
work in agricultural science which is being carried on
today by men born in America and well trained in
American universities. Workers, their methods and
their aims make up the early history of every branch
of human endeavor. The way in which they opened up
the field interests the workers of today. These early
enthusiasts looked into the future confident that their
work was good and that it ought to be done; they
believed that without chemistry it never could be done ;
they sought so to raise the standards and improve the
methods of chemists that a chemically demonstrated
fact should stand unassailable. They had studied
under pupils of the men who saw chemistry evolve
from alchemy. Some of them lived to follow with
admiration the brilliant achievements of such men as
Gibbs, van 't Hoff and Arrhenius, which are today
establishing the fundamental principles of biochem-
istry on which agricultural practice rests.

From the portrait of a painter looks out the keen
eye of the artist. As one gazes into it all the imper-

2 LETTEE-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

fection of the man vanishes,, only the artist soul
remains ; and in the portraits of all who have painted
truly, it is the same clear, beautiful eye, the expression
of the gift of imagination. The man who labors with
faith and enthusiasm for truth in science must be
endowed with this gift of imagination, must look out
into nature with the artist's eye. His success in learn-
ing the secrets of nature is in proportion to his gift
and the use he makes of it. Hence comes a paradox.
The so-called materialistic man of science is spiritually
a painter, a poet, an evangelist consecrated to the cause
of truth. Therefore, he, too, is set a little apart from
the ordinary way and must, like the prophet, the
painter and the poet, take heed lest he travel so far
ahead that those not of his own craft may fail to under-
stand him and his message.

Samuel William Johnson was one of that small
group among the chemists of America who, two gen-
erations ago, undertook to extend and develop labora-
tory instruction in chemistry and to apply this science
to the industries of the country. Among these men,
most of whom passed away before him, few left a
greater impress on American chemistry or American
chemists than did Professor Johnson. His whole life
was devoted to training workers in this field, to making
others realize what chemistry could do for them, and
to developing institutions and methods to extend the
knowledge of chemistry, and make it available to those
engaged in productive occupations. The results of his
efforts are far better appreciated today, when the
returns are so apparent, than they were during the
years of his greatest activity, when he was patiently

INTRODUCTION 3

struggling against the conservatism of so-called prac-
tical men, who could only with difficulty be persuaded
to make the beginning which was essential to demon-
strate the truth he was trying to teach them.

His was an example of a form of high public service
which the man of scientific training can render to his
country and humanity. His broad, sure grasp of
chemical problems and his prophetic appreciation of
the advantages to be gained by the application of the
science of chemistry to the problems of agriculture,
made him a power in the campaign of education
which finally brought about the establishment of the
agricultural experiment station as a national institu-
tion; an achievement which ranks as the most sub-
stantial contribution yet made by the United States
to applied science.

A scholar, a clear thinker, a man of discriminating
mind, he had an unusual capacity for remembering
where and when scientific papers were first published,
and was a living index to all things pertaining to
chemical literature in a day when modem library
short-cuts to knowledge were not. He possessed the
ability to discuss scientific facts and theories simply
and effectively, and could impress on untrained hear-
ers distinctions between facts, theories and working
hypotheses, presenting the matter in hand with great
breadth of view and winning followers for his cause
through his own love of his subject. From boyhood
he was a voluminous writer for the agricultural press,
his chosen field of missionary activity. It is interest-
ing to note that in one of these earliest writings he
sets forth with clearness the need for the agricultural
experiment station in America. For twenty years

4 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

prior to the opening of tHe first state experiment
station in this country, he — as chemist to the Con-
necticut Agricultural Society and to the Connecticut
State Board of Agriculture — was doing for the com-
munity the essential work of an agricultural experi-
ment station, gaining by means of his personal repu-
tation the confidence of farmers and familiarizing
them with the worth and necessity of the institution
which was soon to be founded in Connecticut through
his efforts. He gave them not only results, but an
intelligent understanding of their application and
meaning, thus arousing in the early days of this new
work an interest which went far towards making pos-
sible its development and spread to other states. That
his work met the requirements and established popular
confidence is a matter of history. As teacher, writer
and investigator, and as guiding hand in the adminis-
tration of the first experiment station. Professor
Johnson wielded an influence exercised by few scien-
tific men of his time, and was a potent factor in devel-
oping thought and understanding along the line of
the relations of science to agriculture. His writings
brought together and gave form to the isolated facts
bearing upon that subject; continuing without inter-
ruption for more than fifty years, they carried his
name beyond the boundaries of this continent. His
greatest work was done before the experiment station
movement became national and before popular senti-
ment had embraced the idea of a system of institutions
devoted to scientific work in the interests of practical
agriculture. His labors, his studies and his public
utterances prepared the way for the reception of this
idea; and the example of usefulness furnished by the

INTRODUCTION 5

station under his direction was a powerful stimulus
to its propagation and fruition in other states.

By developing details of station work and methods,
by establishing high standards of fair dealing both
with the farmer and with those who supplied him, and
by inspiring all associated with him mth high ideals
of scientific work, he did more than any one other man
to make the experiment stations of the country the
useful and successful institutions they are today.
In his old age he found himself, in the words of a
friend, "In the rare and privileged position of having
assisted almost at the sowing of the seed of the science
of agricultural chemistry and of living to see it grow
into a great, big tree."

CHAPTER I
CHILDHOOD AND EDUCATION IN AMERICA

Jacob Johnson of Wallingford was not the first of
his family in this country. Two generations of his
forebears may be found on the genealogical lists ; but
to their descendants these earlier Johnsons are only
names. The tradition handed down by grandmothers
and great-aunts has always begun "with Jacob of Wal-
lingford, about whom tangible knowledge has survived
as one of the "West Farmers" of that part of Walling-
ford which is now Cheshire, Connecticut, where he
owned many acres and reared many children, living
long and respected in that rural community. One of
his sons, Abner, was a merchant, a man of some pros-
perity and captain of the Wallingford train-band at
the time of the French and Indian War. His son,
Jacob Johnson, married Esther Hotchkiss, of whose
wisdom, sagacity and ability many tales are still
extant. When a messenger came to summon her hus-
band, who was home on furlough, back to service in
the Revolutionary War, she hastened to the field where
he was ploughing, bade him farewell, lifted the reins
from his neck and, placing them around her own,
called her small son to help her finish not only the
furrow but the field. She lived to a revered old age
and saw four generations of her descendants. With
a family of fourteen children, she had fair field for
the use of all her ''faculty" and self-reliance. Her
second daughter, Amelia, married Daniel Potter, a

CHILDHOOD AND EDUCATION 7

man of large means for that day, who lived at Kings-
bo ro' in the then new country of Northern New York
State. Gradually the rest of Jacob the second's family
came to live near them and her parents lie buried in
the old cemetery at Kingsboro'.

Being childless, Daniel and Amelia, "Uncle and
Aunt Potter," as they were called, brought up
and practically adopted her young brother, Abner
Adolphus, the twelfth of Jacob and Esther Johnson's
family. In time, Abner Adolphus Johnson succeeded
his brother-in-law, Daniel Potter, as a merchant in
Kingsboro', New York, where he also kept the tavern
and o^v^led and managed a large farm. At the age of
thirty-two he married Annah Wells Gilbert, like him-
self descended from pure colonial stock. She had
been brought, when two years old, to New York State
by her parents, who emigrated with a band of kins-
folk and neighbors from Hebron, Connecticut. She
trained her family in accordance with the best tradi-
tions inherited from Puritan ancestors, teaching them
to value character and to feel a deep responsibility for
the use they made of their time and opportunities.
In the names of her eight children she commemorated
her own lines of descent — Gilbert, Wells and Brain-
erd — and Samuel Johnson's name was first given him
in honor of his grandfather, Judge Samuel Gilbert;
later in his boyhood the middle name of William was
added in remembrance of the many of his father's kin
who had borne the names of Samuel and of William.

Abner Adolphus Johnson lived in Ivingsboro' until
1834. Then, his wife not being strong and he himself
suffering from nervous ills brought on by a too seden-
tary life, he retired from business and went back to

8 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

the soil, investing his property for the most part in
farm lands in the fertile valley of the Deer River in
Lewis County, New York, then recently opened for
settlement. Here he lived in patriarchal manner, his
hospitable roof covering not only his large immediate
family, but nephews and nieces, brothers and sisters,
distant kinsfolk and hired laborers. ''Uncle Abner's
Mansion" was home to many, and all were welcome
inmates. This house at Deer River was built when
his third son, Samuel, whose life-work is followed in
this volume, was four years old; and for thirty years
it was home to an ever increasing family circle, united
by unusually strong bonds of mutual affection. The
daily life was simple and frugal, all were industrious,
much store was set on things of the spirit; there was
deep love of truth and much seeking for broader
knowledge.

Educational opportunities were eagerly embraced;
we find Samuel Johnson at the age of eleven a pupil
in the same classes with his elder brothers and sister
at the Lowville Academy, where for fully fifteen years
some one or more of this large family was in attend-
ance. Lowville, although only a few miles from home,
was too far to go and come daily, so the children
boarded there during term time, returning in vacations
to Deer River. They were all good students, and
Samuel was allowed to keep pace with the others as
far as he was able.

In 1842 Samuel Johnson was a small, dark-haired boy
whose eyes, as yet unhelped by the powerful lenses he
used in later years, gave him little information about
objects more than a few feet away. Any and every
thing in print on which he could lay his hands he mas-

CHILDHOOD AND EDUCATION 9

tered at once, but his indifference to matters outside of
books was the despair of his family. The love and sjtii-
pathy of his elder sister, her comprehension of his
intellectual needs, aided his development, and the
mutual devotion of their childhood endured for over
seventy years. In his family as a whole he was singu-
larly blessed. The paths of learning into which he
was irresistibly attracted were strange and untried in
their eyes. It argues a surprising breadth of mind
on the part of a man of Mr. Abner A. Johnson's train-
ing and environment that he should have finally con-
sented, and after consenting consistently encouraged
his son in entering upon a life-work so novel and
untried; for in his belief there were, except he be
called to the holy ministry, just three things safe and
profitable for a man to engage in, law, medicine and
farming. Our cities and their complex activities were
lightly regarded by him, living in what was then a
frontier country where all necessary business was
carried on by men whose main investments were in the
soil.

Before leaving school in 1846, Samuel Johnson
acquired some knowledge of Latin and a little Greek,
more algebra, and as much of physics, botany and
chemistry as opportunity afforded. In his last year at
the Low^ille Academy, chemistry became the absorb-
ing interest of his mind. He gives this record of the
first great event in his intellectual life, written in the
cover of an old **Fresenius," published in 1844 —
the entry is dated February 1905 :

This book came into my possession fifty-nine years ago
while I was a student in Lowville Academy, Lewis Co.,
Northern New York. I there became fascinated with Chem-

10 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

istry through the brilliantly illustrated lectures of the Prin-
cipal, David Porter Mayhew, who made me his assistant, and
(I believe) brought me this volume from New York City
where he visited during his long vacations. In my own
Laboratory at Deer River I prepared most of the pure
reagents, and as far as possible worked through the qualitative
courses described in this excellent work.

In the winters of 1846-47 and 1847-48, Samuel John-
son had charge of district schools near his home. The
sixteen-year-old teacher learned quite as much as did
his pupils, and the habit of intellectual self-reliance,
which was a marked characteristic of his later years,
may well have had its beginning in the necessities of
his position as a teacher of boys generally his seniors,
and nearly always his physical superiors. While
teaching these elementary classes, he began the lavish
buying of standard treatises on different branches of
science, which became the habit of his life. By nature
a student, he assimilated the contents of all such addi-
tions to his library with thoroughness. Brought up
in close association with members of the bar and
others who, as Justices of the Peace, were busily occu-
pied with court cases which today would be placed in
the hands of lawyers, he unconsciously adopted their
methods of thought and their phraseology; and from
infancy his tongue was trained in the English of the
King James Version.

His first appearance in print was in August 1847,
when he said, after a discussion of the scientific point
which was the occasion of the article: ''When the
spirit of inquiry and trust pervades the whole mass of
the agricultural community, dissipating prejudice and
willing ignorance, then it may be expected that science

CHILDHOOD AND EDUCATION 11

'will do her perfect work,' and what perfection may
we not anticipate from enlightened practice under her
auspices?" Having set himself, at this early date,
his text, he preached from it at every opportunity
during the next fifty years. The need for conservation
of national resources was unconsidered in this coun-
try in 1847. We were, as a people, newly arrived and
spent our riches lavishly. A curious shortsightedness
led those with culture derived exclusively through the
classical curriculum of colleges to confuse rusticity
with vulgarity, to regard the gas-light flickering at
the corner of a village street rather than the steady
beams of the stars seen over a frosted field, to hold
that he who communed with nature must inevitably
wear muddy boots and fail to rise above their con-
templation. Men were crowding into towns ; the rapid
multiplication of manufactures and railroads, giving
opportunity for the accumulation of wealth, drew
away from the farm the energetic and ambitious
who were too intent upon piling together bricks and
mortar to consider the importance of increasing our
agricultural resources. With the heedlessness of
youth, the whole country seemed to admire prodigality,
to scorn economy, foresight and thrift. This boy was
sixty years ahead of the popular appreciation which
today sets scientific agriculture and scientific agricul-
tural education in a place of first importance as
economic necessities to our national existence.

In 1848, Samuel Johnson became the possessor of a
private laboratory. His father put at his disposal a
building on the place at Deer River with the use of
laborers and a carpenter to fit it up for his purposes,
caused running water to be brought into it, and gave

12 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

him fifty dollars for the purchase of chemicals, so that
he might pursue his studies by himself. His invalid
mother, to emphasize her interest in his undertaking,
gave him, to melt up for reagents, her wedding tea-
spoons, old and thin and dented by the hard usage of
many children. Self-education in his own laboratory,
through unaided experimentation and the systematic
use of text-books, developed confidence and the habit
of independent logical thought. He learned to attain
the best possible methods of work by rejecting those
which on thorough testing did not give uniformly
certain results, and to eliminate all conclusions based
on assumption.

This private laboratory had been lovingly furnished,
and his devotion to science was approved as an inter-
est, but the whole family felt that he should fit him-
self for some definite and recognized occupation. His
father, especially, unconvinced of the likelihood of a
professional future for his son in chemistry, wished
him to study for the practice of law or medicine.
Unwilling to abandon his own dream of a purely
scientific life-work, Samuel Johnson, in the fall of 1848,
secured a position as instructor in the Flushing Insti-
tute at Flushing, Long Island, hoping to demonstrate
that he could support himself by teaching and at the
same time read and study along scientific lines.

The letter of earliest date in the bundle which his
mother kept in her little red trunk is the following:

Flushing Institute, Dee. 12, 1848.

Dear Friends at Home — I have come to a desperate con-
clusion to spoil the beauty of this sheet. I am about to
address a letter to everybody in particular and nobody in

CHILDHOOD AND EDUCATION 13

general and vice versa if I may be allowed the expression. I
will give a history of "operations and things" here. The
school numbers about 70 boys, no girls except Emily and the
helps and they don't attend school. Old Ezra Fairchild, the
good jolly old gentleman, is Head Principal. Beside him are
Mr. Elias Fairchild, Mr. Bates, Mr. Babbit, Mr. Raone
(French Teacher), and MR. Johnson as Instructors. Mr,
Johnson, as I wrote in my last, has a salary of $20.00 per
month in addition to the comforts of a good home, etc., etc. —
Teachers and students all lodge and eat under the same
roof. — A Day 's Procedure : At 7 o 'clock Mr. Corwin or some-
body else goes through the halls ringing a huge bell that drums
sleep to California, and at 8 o'clock the bell rings for Chapel
when the whole family collects in the Chapel and spends 15
or 20 minutes in religious exercises, and generally Father
Ezra lectures the unruly ones. . . . This morning some fel-
lows, gentlemen if we can judge from coat and boots, having
got up late did not present themselves in Chapel, whereupon
Mr. Fairchild told them to go back to bed and stay all day.
(Three of them refused to do so and started off home to New
York city, but before night came back and went to bed.)
Soon after Chapel, breakfast rings. ... I have 20 students
under my care, in an upper school room. Writing, Spelling,
Arithmetic, Grammar, Geography, are all the studies I teach
at present. Just imagine Sam Johnson. . . . One fine young
man lends him a watch, since the poor dog can't afford to
own one, and he might keep the class a fortnight without one.
That's enough. Don't think any more about "Sam Johnson,"
or "Doctor." There is no such man here. Mr. Johnson is
the feller. . . .

Mr. Johnson was most happily situated at Flushing,
and would have been entirely contented had he not
had a definite ambition for the future, to the fulfilment
of which he longed to devote himself. Teaching occu-
pied nearly all his time ; hours for study were far too

14 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

few. He had decided once and for all to become a
chemist. On February 24, 1849, he wrote home:

Dear Father. — . . . If I stay here it will undoubtedly be
with a salary higher than at present. . . . As to California,
I think it may do for those who desire to grasp emptiness in
the midst of confusion, and when I am caught going thither,
I am found stepping on my own ears.

It is not one of the most encouraging thoughts to entertain,
that many years must elapse before I can acquire the educa-
tion that I need to begin life with. To become a chemist
requires not only intense and laborious application to study,
but the expenditure of a great deal of time and a not incon-
siderable amount of money. How difficult then to accomplish
the required labor when so much time is necessarily devoted
to earning the means for supporting expenses. And when I
behold myself outstripped by others simply because they have
means, I am strongly tempted to repine at the partiality of
fortune, but when I read the achievements of Davy, Faraday,
Scheele, Klaproth, Liebig, Berzelius and a host of others who
have elevated themselves from poverty to the highest stations
and shed a halo of glory upon their own names and the age
that produced them, by their zealous, self-denying struggles
after truth, how am I encouraged to tread cheerfully the path
of science, though alone and exposed to the sneers of the
vulgar and ignorant — ^yes, and toil on through the obstacles
that impede my progress undaunted and persevering, — hoping
for a good time in the future. What shall be my future
course I hardly know. If I remain here I shall carry on my
studies and practice as far as possible, but I cannot do much,
"When I have accumulated a few hundred dollars, I will take
a course of instruction in Yale College Laboratory, but until
then how long ! But my soul gather thee for the conflict, for
the toil, since great is the reward. Enough said, therefore I —
but I came near forgetting the stockings, shirts, etc. and of
these I can only say as long as I have money I shall want

CHILDHOOD AND EDUCATION 15

neither — Respects to all the folks, while I remain, Affec-
tionately, the same old sixpence, S. W. Johnson.

In "Analyses of Limestone," published April 1849,
Mr. Johnson makes for the first time his plea, after-
wards often reiterated, that scientific workers should
''reason and labor \vithout prejudice" rather than
allow their results and methods to be controlled by
the ''reputation of some prominent individuals." He
states :

It becomes, therefore, the interest as well as the duty of
him who would bring science to the aid of agriculture, to
make every labor as complete as possible, and especially to
avoid the dogmatic introduction or support of untested
theories and that narrowminded ignorance which entertains
the possibility of making any one discovery which shall
remedy the failings of the present practice.

He then continues:

Much is to be hoped from the labors of scientific men, con-
ducive to the interests of agriculture. The farmer has to deal
with nature; to follow intelligently his business supposes a
knowledge of her laws. These laws are the professed object
of the chemist's inquiry, and hence follows, — what experience
has a thousand times established, — the ability of the chemist
to fashion his practice so as best to assist and imitate nature,
and consequently to gain from her the greatest amount of
benefit.

Farmers' sons must be instructed in Natural Science. The
mind is the great instrument and this mind must be culti-
vated. All are familiar with the difference between the crab-
apple and the beautiful, grateful fruit that yearly adorns
our orchards; no less difference is there between the mind
native and cultivated. There is no better means of a speedy

16 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

and harmonious development of intellectual, physical and
moral powers than the study of nature. Do our great chem-
ists, geologists, etc., fall behind mathematicians and classical
scholars in mental acumen or profundity? They certainly
occupy a greater rank in view of the utility of their labors.
The natural sciences offer this decided advantage over every
other study to the young farmer, that they are of direct
application to the daily concerns of his life. Let him then
be more concerned to know the nomenclature of chemistry
than the Greek alphabet. Let him study Liebig before Virgil,
and Boussingault before Horace. Not that I would cast any
reproach on the study of the classics, but I would have edu-
cation adapted to the wants of the educated. Every farmer
should be thoroughly acquainted with chemistry, botany,
zoology, etc., as affecting the principles of his art. Not that
every farmer should be a chemist, — that would be impossible —
but many possessed of natural tact might render themselves
sufficiently expert in analysis to materially benefit their busi-
ness without interfering with it. The schools of practical
chemistry that are springing up in our midst should be well
supported by our farming community.

The reason why so few young men of talent and intellectual
promise are found engaged in cultivating the soil is that
agricultural pursuits, as commonly practised and understood,
offer no gratification to the mind. The proper application of
science to husbandry will remove this evil, and so soon as
provisions are made for the education of farmers, equal to
those now furnished for physicians and lawyers, we shall
behold the intellectual as well as the physical energies of our
country devoted to the perfection of agricultural processes.
. . . "Blessed are ye that sow beside all waters, that send
forth thither the feet of the ox and the ass." — Isaiah.

Having spent the spring vacation at home, Mr.
Johnson wrote on his return to Flushing, on May 8,
1849:

CHILDHOOD AND EDUCATION 17

Dear Father, — I left Lowville Thursday morning at 8
o'clock and staged it to Rome where I arrived at 3 o'clock
P.M. At 9 we left in cars and reached Albany at 3 o'clock
A.M. Friday I breakfasted for the sake of my baggage at
Stanwix Hall, and at 7 o'c was sailing off in the steamer
Confidence. She was the only boat running that day, and
sang up to the tune of $1.50 for passage. I had a very pleas-
ant ride down the river. My eye was greeted with lots of
green things, many willows and also fruit trees were in
blossom. When we started it rained a little, and a rather
strong south wind made it unpleasant to look about, but when
we got dowTi 40 or 50 miles it became much milder, the sun
shone, and I mounted myself upon the capstan on the prow
of the boat, and heartily enjoyed the magnificent scenery
which I was enabled to appreciate to some extent intelligently
by aid of a small book I purchased, entitled "Wilson's Illus-
trated Guide to the Hudson River, ' ' which gave a map of the
river and notices of the important towns, etc. At 5 P.M. we
reached the dock in New York, and I rode down to Fulton
Market Slip to take the Flushing boat, but in the midst of
a squabble with a parcel of negroes about my baggage and
pay, the boat sailed, and I wheeled up to Lovejoy's Hotel to
pass the night. Lovejoy's is a huge building in Park Row
just opposite the Astor House, and is carried on in just the
style to suit me. They charge .50 cts. for lodging, and a
person may take meals or not as he chooses, and no questions
asked. The Refectory is in the basement where a person may
at any time of day call for what he wants, and is carried on
as if it were a separate concern. A good meal of ham and
eggs, enough for any man, for .25 cts. Sat. I ran about the
city, visited the Nat. Academy of Design, a glorious collection
of paintings, and the American Museum, and at 1/2 past 4
sailed for Flushing where I was literally recv'd with open
arms by Uncle Ezra and the rest. The teachers are all
back, and now — Tuesday, 11 O'c A.M. — 25 students. Many
more are expected all through the week. . . . Please send

18 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

the Northern Journal EVERY WEEK and write soon.
Obediently, S. W. Johnson.

His loving interest in the education of four little
sisters is shown in a letter of even date to his sister,
Esther, then ten years old. ''The Doctor" was his
own nickname in the family, ''the Judge" and "the
Squire" were respectively two elder brothers, grown
men at this time.

I mail with this note a small, but very useful and I think it
will prove to you a very interesting, book "First Lessons in
Botany ' ' by Alphonso Wood, Master of Arts. I hope you and
the rest of the little sisters are all quite well and enjoying
what little spring Deer River can afford. The school is get-
ting very well filled, and in a few days I shall teach classes in
Chemistry, Botany, Nat. Philosophy and perhaps Astronomy.

You will doubtless feel disposed to study your little Botany
immediately, and since I am ''the Doctor," and therefore
am understood to know science, you will receive from me a
little advice as kindly as it is offered. Now in the first place
sit down and count the cost. Botany is not a very easy study,
and it will try your patience no doubt to some extent, but just
resolutely make up your mind to acquire a thorough knowl-
edge of it, and then study hard to accomplish the good pur-
pose. You cannot perhaps study and recite it in school,
because your teacher has not probably an acquaintance with
the science, but if she has you can commence business at
once, — and so you can at any rate, but it will be hard work
I fear, nevertheless you can do it and now for the plan. Get
up at 4 o'clock (going to bed at 8 o'clock), or as e^rly as any
one in the family, get dressed, then wash, etc. Do all this in
a lively, sprightly manner, assist in whatever household duties
may fall to your lot, until 5 o'clock, then Ma must allow you
an hour to study Botany. Take up the Book and read the
title page. It is only "First Lessons," and since there [is] a

CHILDHOOD AND EDUCATION 19

great deal more to know about Botany than this little volume
contains, you must be very diligent to learn all there is in it
so that you can go on with larger works. Then read the
beautiful extract from Dr. Darlington on next page, go on
with suggestions to teachers. Then directions for pronun-
ciation, the Judge will explain by reference to some terms in
the body of the book the use of accents. Then learn thor-
oughly the Greek and Latin numerals. You cannot go a step
without this knowledge. This well done, read carefully over
the Abbreviations and Signs, so that you may always know
where to look for them. Lesson 1st. then may occupy your
attention. Let it not pass until you know it perfecfly, and
can readily answer every question. Whenever any part of
a plant is instanced in the book you must refer to the figure
and, if possible, procure a corresponding specimen. For
example, to illustrate Fig. 2, page 14, plant a hean or cucum-
ber seed, and when it comes up dig it and carefully examine
its parts, and associate with the appearance of its parts their
names; thus the commission of the many terms to memory
is greatly aided. Learn accurately the difference between
terms nearly similar, as Hirsute, Scabious, Tomentose and so
on. And be very careful, I repeat it, to find nature and see
the part or peculiarity described. Thus in illustration of
fig. 7, page 15, procure a leaf of the choke cherry and notice
upon the petiole or stem of the leaf 2 or 3 little hairs with
glands on the top. Lesson 1st learned, less. 2d may be taken
up. Now always look well to the heading of a chapter.
Classification introduced, think what classification means, and
then note that the lesson treats of grand divisions, that is the
largest divisions that can be made. Fig. 9 represents the
wake robin or beth root. Have the plant before you when you
study. You can use my Botany Box to collect. Shorten the
string so you can carry it well. As you go on with the various
divisions of leaves, roots, flowers, etc., get as many of each
class as possible to examine, and the labor of retaining so

20 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

many names will be comparatively slight. To aid you some-
what I have written in the Book examples of plants you know,
to which you can refer when you are unacquainted with the
plant the book mentions. After a little practice you will get
along well enough. You must not be in too great a hurry to
get along, but get everything thoroughly as you go along. It
may be hard and seem tough, but we must work to grow
strong. And if you labor through this and get it perfectly,
you can answer questions that perhaps no other person in
Lewis Co. may be able to do.

You will have so improved as to be able to take up other
studies, as Chemistry, Astronomy, etc. etc., and learn them
with tolerable ease and will find your perseverance and
patience drawn out to a wonderful extent, so that you will
be less vexed with even the common cares of life. When you
have finished this Book it will [he] my care to provide you
with [a] larger.

In June, he writes to quiet the anxiety of the family,
as voiced by his elder sister, Sarah, over the prevalence
of cholera in New York. Evidently he has been more
concerned with his own plans for the future than with
rumors of epidemics :

Dear Father, — I recv'd Sarah's letter Sat. night and now
return an answer concerning Cholera, etc. There have been
no well characterized cases in Flushing. We have no alarm
upon the subject. The school goes on as usual, only about 60
students. I like things in general, and enjoy myself much
better than I did last winter. I teach an excellent class in
Chemistry, and shall soon commence giving instruction in
practical Chemistry, or Blowpipe Manipulation, to three smart
young men. I wrote some time since to Prof. Horsford of
Cambridge University for information respecting the expenses
of studying with him. They are as follows per annum.

CHILDHOOD AND EDUCATION 21

Tuition and supplies . . $200.

Board 100.

Washing 10.

Room rent 30.

Lecture fees 20.

Clothing, et ceteras . . 40.

$400.

The Professor stated that several young men were working
through their course, supported by money borrowed on life
insurance, and thought they would succeed well — And hav-
ing reflected upon the su])ject, I am becoming more and more
anxious to go to Cambridge next fall. The Prof, thinks that
if I could arrange to stay there a year some means would offer
for self-support. Although I am doing pretty well, and well
enough had I no education yet to accjuire, yet I think that
one or two years ' study at Cambridge would enable me to earn
$3.00 where I now earn one. I have almost reached the age
of 19, and feel that I must soon begin in earnest if I would
make myself master of the science that is every year almost
doubling its extent. If at the age of 21 I be a good analyst,
I shall undoubtedly be able to make my living and pay off
debts contracted in getting education. Dominie Tyler was
$900 in debt when he left college, and I hardly know a col-
legiate that has not gone through his coui*se upon more or
less borrowed money. I hate the idea of contracting debt, yet
the idea of it furnishing me with increased capacity for
accjuiring pecuniary means is encouraging; on the whole,
could I do it legally and were I left to my own discretion, I
should borrow $300. and go to Cambridge next Oct. The idea
of being so much longer ignorant of what I have so long
desired is "hope deferred that maketh the heart sick." The
expenses are so great that I cannot hope to go with less than
$300. besides that which 1 have earned. What does Pa tiiink?

22 . LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

. . . Love to all the folks, and thanks to Sarah for her letter.
I remain, affect 'ly, S. W. Johnson.

Quiet consideration of the relative opportunities
offered by Harvard and Yale led him to go, in October,
to New Haven to look over the ground there. A per-
sonal interview with Professor Norton settled his
future course clear in his mind, and he at once com-
municated his decision to his father:

I write from the classic shades of old Yale. The ' ' City of
Elms" is at present my stopping place. I left Flushing
Wednesday at 2 o'c. P.M. and, thanks to Robert Fulton and
the paddles of the splendid steamer "Connecticut," at 9 o'c.
P.M. I was set down in New Haven. I soon found my old
friend C. Storrs, from whose room in North College I am now
writing. I shall probably return to Flushing tomorrow. My
session of 5 months is closed. We have no regular vacation,
but the departure of many of the students at this the regular
time of departure leaves us without a very pressing amount
of business, and so I have taken a short respite. My present
idea is to return to Flushing and remain two months, until
Dec. 6th, and then take up my residence in New Haven. I
have visited the Analytical Laboratory which is hardly a
stone's east from my pen's point, have seen and conversed
with Prof. J. P. Norton. . . . He is a fine specimen of a pol-
ished, real live Yankee (I should judge), very plain, unpre-
tending, and possesses a "quantum sufficit" of common sense.
The encouragements he holds out to me are of the most flat-
tering kind. The success of his enterprise, the "Chemical
School," is beyond that of the Cambridge establishment, and
since expenses of living are so much cheaper here than there
I am decided that this is the place. In answer to my inquiries
concerning the support a chemist could command, he said
that there were two situations to one man already, that he
had applications now that he could not fill and had been

CHILDHOOD AND EDUCATION 23

obliged to send away young men to fill places before he wished
to ; that is, before they had fully completed their course. He
thinks there is no risk in getting lucrative employment, espe-
cially as Professors and Teachers of Agricultural Chemistry.
My expenses here would be about $350 or $400. And here let
me say a few words as to the funds I have at disposal. The
wages for my winter's work were $80. for my summer's

$150. = $230. Where is it? Oh where is it? where? ?

I have given about $20. in obedience to the golden rule, to
whom I may not say. I believe it was well given. My journey
home cost about $10. My return cost me nothing. A watch
cost $12. I have procured clothes to the amt. of $15., $30 or
more has gone for books, — all good serviceable necessary
hooks. My present expedition consumes with the utmost
economy — shilling dinners at restaurants, $10, A dozen
excursions to New York, etc., have cost as many dollars.
Sightseeing, all laudable for I don't give money without get-
ting its worth, has taken more. I have improved my leisure
hours with chemical study and experiments — this has used
money — and I have only about $100. left. Two months more
wiU swell the amount to $150. This will keep me in Yale
6 mo., then I can look out for ways and means to raise more.
My bodily appetites I can control, so that I have only one
passion that is a well ridden hobby horse that consumes money
without control, and that is a love of books, or what is in them.
When I get to Flushing I shall expect a letter from home and
a Northern Journal. —

This ''Chemical School" of Professor J. P. Norton
at Yale was the immediate outgrowth of the private
laboratory of Professor B. Silliman, Jr., who, previous
to his appointment in 1846 as "University Professor of
Chemistry and the Kindred Sciences as Applied to
the Arts" in Yale College, had received private pupils
in chemistry — among them John Pitkin Norton. At

24 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

the opening of the college year of 1847-48, Yale College
gave recognition to the movement for scientific edu-
cation by appointing a committee of the corporation
to take into consideration the establishment of a
'^Department of Philosophy and the Arts," which
should continue under official sanction opportunities
for extra-curriculum study heretofore afforded only
as the personal undertaking of certain professors.*
Prominent wdth Professor B. Silliman, Jr., in this
movement was Professor John Pitkin Norton; and
their '' School of Applied Chemistry," or ''Analytical
Laboratory," as it was familiarly called to distin-
guish it from the "Chemical Laboratory" of the elder
Professor Silliman, was opened in 1847 in the old
"President's House" on the College Campus, becom-
ing a part of the new Department of Philosophy and
the Arts. It began as a technical school of chemistry,
it has developed into the Sheffield Scientific School,
whose undergraduate courses have in late years so
rapidly increased in number. Its status at that time

* In the autumn of 1847 the catalogue of Yale College stated under
the heading, "Department of Philosophy and the Arts": — "Profes-
sor Silliman, Jr., will instruct in Elementary and Analytical Chemistry,
Mineralogy and Metallurgy. Professor Norton will instruct in the appli-
cations of science to Agriculture and in Analytical Chemistry." Under
the subheading, "School of Applied Chemistry," it continued: — "Profes-
sors Silliman and Norton have opened a Laboratory on the College grounds,
in connection with their departments, for the purpose of practical instruc-
tion in the application of science to the arts and agriculture. Every
facility will be afforded to those who desire to obtain special instruction
in general and analytical Chemistry and in Mineralogy. A course of
lectures on the connections of science with agriculture, by Professor
Norton, will commence in January and continue about two months, at
the rate of about four lectures in each week. Professor Silliman, Jr.,
will deliver during the summer a course of lectures upon some other
department of applied Chemistry. ' '

CHILDHOOD AND EDUCATION 25

is well described in a memoir of Professor B. Silli-
man, Jr., written by Professor Arthur W. Wright:
"Although the School had been thus formally recog-
nized and had attained to an established position, it
received little other encouragement and no substantial
aid from the college. . . . The cost of fitting up and
equipping the Laboratory, and of providing appara-
tus, cabinets and library, was furnished from the pri-
vate means of the two professors, who received no
salaries from the college and even for two years paid
a rent for the use of the building."

In 1849, B. Silliman, Jr., became professor of medi-
cal chemistry and toxicology in the Medical School
of the University of Louisville. During the five years
he retained this position he spent each winter there,
thus leaving Norton alone in the duties and respon-
sibilities of the Analytical Laboratory for a part of
each college year. Professor Norton was a forceful
and untiring worker, of marked ability as a writer
and lecturer, who gave much time to the cause of
scientific agricultural education, speaking before agri-
cultural societies, and writing constantly upon scien-
tific topics for the better agricultural journals. He
was a practical agriculturist as well as a trained
scholar, who saw his duty to lie in work for the coun-
try at large quite as much as within the walls of the
laboratory where he was training others who should
later succeed him.

In January 1850, Mr. Johnson went to New Haven,
relying for support upon his modest savings. This
year was an eventful one for him. The classes were
small and he was thrown in close personal contact
with Professor Norton, whose stimulating and broad-

26 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

ening influence hastened his intellectual expansion.
By the end of the year he had definitely decided that
he would follow Professor Norton's advice and go to
Germany for further study, especially under Liebig,
who had been the first to offer laboratory instruction
in chemistry and who ranked at that time as the great-
est master of agricultural chemistry in the world.
How to carry this plan into effect was a serious ques-
tion. Mr. Johnson's father would have helped him
most willingly to an education in the law or in medi-
cine, but was not inclined to aid in the way he wished.
The subject was debated from both sides in the family
letters. On July 10, 1850, Mr. Johnson wrote :

Dear Pa and Sarah, — The 4th brought me Pa's answer to
my first two letters and last night the letter containing the
$20.00 safe — I was not particularly shocked at the thought
I could not prosecute my studies next Autumn and Winter,
although I had set my heart upon it. Even if I could do no
more for 6 mo. or a yr. at chem. — if I had better engage in
earning means — still I regret losing the opportunity of get-
ting a balance with so little trouble and $30.00 cheaper than
I can after this term. Prof. Silliman jr. will not be here for
at least a year and a half after he leaves in Oct. He spends
the winter in Louisville and in the spring he visits Europe,
with his Father. The balance costs $60., the freight etc., about
$10. — $20. according to circumstances. If I could send soon
it would probably not cost more than $68. as it would be
freighted with other articles. With a Balance on hand next
spring I could work to advantage at home, after doing some-
thing next fall and next winter to raise ' ' the rocks ' ' — if some-
body would chuck $75. in my pocket next Oct. I would order.
But ! ' * 'tis as 'tis and can 't be much 'tisser. ' ' My last chance
must slide — let it go easy. — As ever, very sonily, Samuel.

CHILDHOOD AND EDUCATION 27

The advocacy of his sister Sarah and opportunities
during the summer vacation to talk the matter over
face to face, led to a modification of Mr. Abner A.
Johnson's views. In October, Samuel, as indicated in
the following letter, was in receipt of an allowance
from his father and was again at work in the Yale
Analytical Laboratory.

(S. W. J. TO A. A. J.)

— 'Tis in vain! What eloquence can fitly introduce the
subject? How can I make it pleasant. I resign myself to
Fate and Destiny, / write for money! What! the boy!
He had enough he said. He promised to economize. Why
does he want more ? — Softly — Earth is trial ground, none are
secure from misfortune. On my return here my India
Rubbers were gone, couldn't be found, none knew of them.
I left them in my room. They were doubtless carried off by
mistake, ($1.50). I thought to let the matter rest, and shed
no tears for the scows wherein I was wont to navigate the wet
and slush of New Haven Winter, But this was not all. I
labored industriously at my business. Poor unfortunate!
A vessel whose thickness could not be measured broke from
the weight of its contents. A cascade of corrosive acid went
over my breeches and boots, they were saved, the boots per-
ished. My neiv boots, my only. They have now "no music in
their sole" and the uppers have "give out," (To replace
them here $4.00 or less.) My room which I engaged last
term was very comfortable and small. A friend from Flush-
ing Inst., a nice young man — Ezequiel Uricoechea of Bogota,
New Granada, S. A. — at my instance enters this depart-
ment one week hence. An opportunity presented for ex-
changing my room for one that would hold us both, furnished
with a nice new carpet worth $16.00, my half $8.00. My old
rent was $24.00, my present (1/2 the whole) $12 1/2—1 thus
save 11.00 rent and pay 8.00 for carpet — $3.00 is thus saved

28 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

from one yrs. expenses. I had to supply a stove and a lamp, I
now supply but 1/2, $5.00 more gain at least for 1 yr. The
exchange gives me a carpet and $8.00, I have not hesitated
to make the exchange, although a little money is required now
instead of by and by. I am owing E. U. $7.14. I need a pair
of boots. My old cap will last until I go to Wallingford, then
I ought to have a new one. No! I shall need none. I can't
afford to visit next vacation, it will do. What has become of
the $50.00? I have the list of expenses, it is long or I could
transcribe it. Only one or two items I regret, live and learn.
I have a few dollars left, — $4.00. I hear not Prof. Silliman's
lectures, they cost $12.50. I take an instructor in German, it
costs $5.00. I buy no candy except cough candy, and I rejoice
to have no occasion for it. I do the best I can, considering my
frailties. I strive to overcome them. I guess $10.00 will keep
me the rest of the term —

After replying to the preceding appeal, Ms father
wrote :

Deer River, 27th Novr. 1850.

Dear Samuel, — Yours dated 28th Ult. was received asking
for $10. I wrote and enclosed $15. — that you might get a
cap and visit cousin Gilbert at Wallingford next vacation —
but have received no answer as yet, whether you received the
letter or not. You either have not received it, or have for-
gotten the charge given you to acknowledge the receipt of
money as soon as may be after the receipt of it. I write now
to learn whether or not the above has been received. I
directed the letter to S. W. Johnson, Chemical Department,
Yale College, New Haven.

Write the time and amount you need to pay up for this
term. I think you calculate $125. That amount is in readi-
ness when needed, will buy a draft as before. You are daily
remembered by

Your affectionate father.

CHILDHOOD AND EDUCATION 29

The problem of ways and means for European
study was constantly in Mr. Johnson's thoughts. On
December 16, 1850, he asks the family's advice:

Dear Father, — Immediately upon the reception of your last
(that I have received) letter (Nov. 27th), I wrote home
acknowledging the former rec'pt of $15., and stating that I
should probably want $130. more. Sarah's letter has been
recev'd and shall be answered soon. I shall be an assistant
here next term, and thus my expenses will be diminished
$200. per annum. Prof. Norton thinks the best thing I can
do for my mastery of the Science and for my future success,
is to go to Europe next summer and study there two
years. He says the expense will be $1500. How to get the
money I know only one way, and that is to borrow it as Prof.
Horsford did, getting a life-insurance policy as security in
event of death. If some of my rich friends would lend me
the money, giving me 5 yrs. to pay it in, I would take the
responsibility of the debt. I should be more than $1500 worth
better [able] to fill such a station as I look to, and could as a
consequence command a better situation. A fellow student,
son of a wealthy Hartford Gentleman, with whom I have been
on the best of terms since I came here, will go to Europe next
summer if I will. I wish the opinion of the folks. I shall
rejoice if Heaven makes my path across the great waters to
the great European shrines of science, and if I must stay, —
'tis His will who doeth all things well. Praying that God may
strengthen me in a new life of obedience to Him and bring
us all an unbroken family around His throne, — I subscribe
myself, your affectionate son, Samuel.

In May he wrote in a similar strain, saying:

College is "in full tide of successful operation." I am
busily occupied in the Laboratory and with the study of
German. I attend Prof. Thacher's class, 4 days in the week.

30 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

He continued:

— I had an invitation from my friend Mr. Bunce of Hart-
ford (who stays at home this summer but intends to return
to the Lab. next term) to visit him last vacation. His father
was anxious to make my acquaintance as I am to be his son's
companion in Europe ! Am I, or am I not ? $2000 separates
me from Europe besides 3000 miles. I can borrow any quan-
tity of money at the savings bank here, at 6 pr. ct. interest, on
the strength of three responsible endorsers. I can secure, by
a life insurance for $2000, costing about $30 per annum, my
endorsers in case of death, but can I get anybody to endorse
while I am expected to live ? If some of my rich friends want
to invest money, here is a chance. I am more and more con-
vinced that a European education is necessary to put me in
the front rank where I want to serve. I don't fear but that
I can pay the debt in two or three years after my return, if
health and strength are permitted. I have no doubt that, with
such an education in my profession as I shall then possess, I
may do my share of duty in life, and assist in bringing up to
honorable and useful womanhood the sisters who may before
many years be consigned — parentless — to their brothers ' care.
May Heaven long delay the time of their orphanage ! —

In June, Mr. Johnson suddenly postponed all prep-
arations for going abroad, owing to a most unexpected
opportunity for earning what was at that day a hand-
some salary. Concerning this, he w^rote :

Dear Father, — This letter has a secret which it will be best
not to tell anyone of except mother.

Prof. Norton has had offered him, in addition to other
employment at Albany, the Professorship of Chemistry and
Natural Philosophy in the State Normal School. He does
not wish to accept, and intends recommending me to the post,
and says he has no doubt I may obtain it. The work is 5
hours a day, commences in Sept, 5 days per week during the

CHILDHOOD AND EDUCATION 31

two terms of 20 weeks or thereabouts. The pay is $800. (eight
hundred dollars) somethin' ! Now I may receive a letter from
them requesting me to come up there and give them a sight
of me, and I may be accepted and may not. Since I may not,
it is best that nobody know it. If I receive the appointment
there, it may be told of. Now if I go to Albany I shall want
my wardrobe replenished somewhat. I shall be obliged to
give up, in part, ray economical student habits, and walk in
the first rank of society ! — and I shall want some money, and
if I can make a good impression it will be almost the last time,
I hope, I shall trouble my very kind and good Father for
money. I shall consequently relinquish for the present the
idea of going to Europe, and if I obtain the situation shall
give myself to its duties. My expenses for the term will be
for board, rent and washing about $45. To Albany including
outfit, and I have scarcely anything fit to wear on such an oc-
casion— I shall have to buy a hat — a Panama is most durable,
I think $2.50, coat 4 or 5, pants 3 or 4, shoes 3.00, hdkfs. etc.,
call the outfit $15. I hardly dare undertake the journey with
less than $10., though in my student way of doing things $5
would be amply sufficient. Then at the close of term I must
go home. I may have to stop at Albany for some business or
other there, so here goes for $15. Thus it stands —

Term expenses due 27th of July, $45.00

Outfit and money to Albany — wanted soon 25.00
Money home — wanted 27th July, 15.00

$85.00

I hope not to be obliged to use all this, but want enough in
every contingency. If I should not get the situation it would
be rather bad, but the prospect is so fair I had better try for it,
had I not ? If I should get the situation I would not exchange
it for any place in the country — for — The University of
Albany is going into operation next winter, and will in time

32 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

gather more or less permanently there the best scientific men
of our country. Agassiz, Norton, Hall, Mitchell, Gibbs, Whit-
ney, Guyot, Pearce, etc. What a place ! If I succeed I will
tell more. My love to all. Affectionately, Samuel W. Johnson.

A few days later lie wrote from Albany:

Dear Folks, — No secret ! I have just returned from lobby-
ing about the State officials and am "Professor of Chemistry,
Nat. Philosophy and the Principles of Agriculture" elect in
the State Normal School. I have not accepted the situation,
and delay to do so until I hear from home, as I had not rec'd
an answer to my former letter when I left N. H. yesterday
at 1 o'clock. I have been introduced to Prof. Perkins and
the Normal School Corps, to Hon. Christopher Morgan, Sec'y
of State, Dr. T. T. Beck, Dr. Campbell, Mr. Hawley and
another gentleman who (the last five) form the Executive
Com. of the Normal School. I have also visited Mr. Tucker
of the Cultivator. Had an introduction through Hon. S. H.
Johnson, to A. B. Street the Poet. Seen Hon. C. Lyon, etc.
S. H. J. is staying at the "Stannix" where I now write. He
is much worn by the extra session of Legislature. They
adjourn tonight probably. I return to New York tonight
and N. H. tomorrow. My salary is $800. and I have a $12.
check for my expenses hither and back to N. H. Write at the
earliest mail as the Committee are anxious to know my
decision. In haste, Affectionately, S. W. Johnson.

His plans for the summer were given in the next
letter :

Yale, July 12th, 1851.

Dear Father, — I have just returned from Albany and
found Pa's letter of the 5th in the box of P. 0. next to mine,
where it has been for nearly a week I have no doubt. There
was a change of boxes the 1st of July which may account for

CHILDHOOD AND EDUCATION 33

this delay. It contains $90. safe. You have before this rec'd
my letter dated at Albany, containing the news of my election
to the situation at the Normal School.

I must now work hard until the close of the term to finish
some investigations which I wish to present to the "Am.
Association for the Advancement of Science ' ' at its next meet-
ing at Albany, August 18th, 1851. I may be accompanied by
one or two young scientific friends when I go home, who intend
to visit the mineral localities North. They will not stay long
at Deer River. Affectionately, Samuel.

Study and commercial analytical work had kept
Mr. Johnson's time well filled during the eighteen
months spent in New Haven. His only publications
in this period were one scientific paper upon the dis-
covery of sulphuret of nickel in Northern New York
and an educational article, setting forth a plan for a
"County Agricultural Institute" designed to under-
take work similar to that now done by the State
Experiment Stations. This latter was published in
the Albany Cultivator, which, established in 1833 as
the organ of the New York State Agricultural Society,
at this date was owned and edited by Luther Tucker,
who had brought the old journal up to a high standard
of literary excellence, Eben N. Horsford, John Pitkin
Norton and Donald G. Mitchell being among its
contributors.

Mr. Johnson passed the school year of 1851-52 in
Albany, teaching natural sciences in the New York
State Nonnal School. Here, as always when he
had mature and earnest pupils, he was an inspiring
teacher, and won friendship and admiration for him-
self through his teaching. No home letters covering
these months are in existence. It is not far from

34 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

Albany to Deer Eiver, probably visits were frequent
and letters few. We know that he made friends,
enjoyed the broader opportunities of cultured society
which his position opened to him, and did good work
in the classroom.

Professor Norton's courses of lectures on the con-
nection of science with agriculture, delivered at New
Haven and at Albany in the winter of 1851-52,
attracted attention, following as they did so closely
upon the publication of his book, ' * Elements of Scien-
tific Agriculture," which, as the ''Prize Essay" of
the New York Agricultural Society, had made his
name familiar to a large constituency; and the School
of Applied Chemistry at Yale had through his efforts
attained to such a position that announcement was
made that ''Students who enter this department may
hereafter have in view a degree to be given when they
have completed a certain course of study." His
broad conception of professional obligation to the
cause of scientific education led Norton also to join
with earnestness in the movement for the establish-
ment at Albany under State patronage of a university
in which agriculture and its connected sciences should
have a prominent place. This double duty — for he
kept up his work at New Haven, traveling twice a
week between the two cities, and lecturing three times,
in each — proved too much for his strength. After a
vain trip south in search of health, he died in October
1852, at his father's house at Farmington, Connecticut.
The sudden ending of his life brought sadness to the
colleagues and pupils who loved him, and proved a
heavy blow to the two struggling institutions for the
success of which he had been energetically working.

CHILDHOOD AND EDUCATION 35

Although he died at the early age of thirty, he had
exerted so strong an influence that his work continued
after him in the lives and labors of those who were
called to take up the duties which he laid down.

In letters written to Mr. Johnson in January and
in May 1852, Mr. William J. Craw, then assistant in
applied chemistry in the Yale Analytical Laboratory,
gave the following account of the laboratory and their
mutual friends there:

If the sorrow of your friends can be a pleasure to you, you
can have that pleasure in the assurance that you have been
very much missed in the Laboratory. . . . There are quite a
number of regulars in the Lab. already, and we expect a con-
siderable force of volunteers from the Senior class ; and Prof.
Norton lectures. ... I presume you heard all about the
degree of Bachelor of Philosophy which is to be given next
summer, but lest you hear not, I will say a few words on the
subject. The requirements are — to be connected two years
with the College, and to pass satisfactory examinations on
the three branches of which French or German must be one.
There will be quite a number of the ''old Lab." candidates,
and if you should decide to be one of us, need I say that you
will be met with a hearty welcome? . . . The Laboratory is
getting along pretty well, though the number of students is
small at present. We expect an accession of six or eight from
the Senior class in two or three weeks, or as soon as they have
finished their examination. Prof. Norton has not yet returned
from the south, though he is expected to come very soon. . . .
Brush is now here in New Haven, studying up in preparation
for examination at commencement, as he intends to join the
"Bachelor of Philosophy" class this year. Brewer is coming
on the 1st of July and will probably join it also. So you see
that we are likely to have quite a strong force and a good
jolly set of fellows in the bargain. I wish you could be with

36 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

us also at that time. But I suppose your aspiring spirit will
be satisfied with nothing less than the Ph. D. from some
German University. —

Profitable as the experience gained during this
winter in Albany was, Mr. Johnson regarded it only
as an inevitable delay in his real work in life. In the
autumn of 1852 he returned to the Yale Analytical
Laboratory to finish his preparation for foreign study.
He cooked his food in his room, embraced every oppor-
tunity to earn or save money towards his European
expenses, and studied hard to acquire a knowledge of
the German language, which he realized was essential
to future success in his profession. Two letters to his
father, written in January and in March 1853, give a
vivid description of his occupations and ambitions at
this time:

I am full of business, so much so that I can hardly find
time to write letters. — I always, however, find time to write
when I want money, which is the case just now. Instead of
hiring a furnished room which I had thought of doing, I
furnished one at an outlay of nearly $20. for bed and other
furniture, and consequently have that sum less than I should
otherwise have had for present use. I board myself at about
$1.50 per week. Wood and light cost high, wood $8.00 per
cord and some cold weather now uses it up fast. I shall make
ends meet in the spring, but shall be saved much trouble if
Pa will forward me $10. which I will repay when I am able.
Prof. Porter has given me opportunity to make analyses for
him for which he remits me 2 months' laboratory charges.
. . . Yours of a week or two since came to hand enclosing
X dollars. It was all very acceptable, although I was in no
pressing need. I have long had by heart the lesson that it is
hard for a poor fellow like me to acquire an expensive educa-

CHILDHOOD AND EDUCATION 37

tion, and although the sky is often dark with disappointments,
no matter, I am. used to it. I must go to Europe before I can
think of engaging in any business, if it be possible. What
I shall do the next summer, I don't know. Notwithstanding
my greatly improved health, I am not in working mood more
than half the time. But the object I have steadily pursued
for 8 years can 't be yielded now, I am bound to put it through.
Being obliged to look out for funds, I am distracted and hin-
dered in my studies so that I have not accomplished half so
much this winter as I might have done had I "the rocks,"
but there's a good time coming, I believe, and I am going on
to meet it. —

235018

CHAPTER II
LIFE AND STUDY IN EUROPE

For five years the father had been quietly watching
and testing his son. Very soon after receiving the
letter just quoted he decided to give him an amount
equal in value to the farm already given to each older
brother on the attainment of his majority. With this
to rely on, Mr. Johnson started at once for Germany.
He went first to Leipsic where he worked in Erdmann's
laboratory at pure chemistry, studied German, made
acquaintances and friends, and gradually gained a
sympathetic insight into German family and social life.
The diary, kept from the time he left New York until
he arrived at Munich the following year, and family
letters furnish a picture of his student life abroad.
His last letter before sailing in May 1853, is addressed
to his sister Sarah. In it he mentions having sent to
her husband his *'3d of Exchange" and describes the
delays attending the ship's departure:

— The Good Ship New World with all her cargo, crew and
passengers lies at anchor now in New York Bay, just inside
Sandy Hook. We left Peck Slip, foot of Beekman Street, at
1 o'clock P.M. We were towed out by a steamboat to our
present anchorage, about 18 miles from N. Y. city. We have
a fair wind tonight, but the crew is too drunk to warrant
proceeding, by morning, however, the liquor will all be gone
and we then expect to get under weigh for England if the
wind is favorable. The night is calm and starry, the old ship

LIFE AND STUDY IN EUKOPE 39

lies almost motionless, and we expect a good night's rest.
When we shall get another, I can't say. I am tired enough
to do else than write, but improve the last opportunity to send
by the pilot a letter home to the friends I've left behind.
There are twelve cabin passengers. The Captain's wife is
aboard. There are 40 sailors and hands and 50 2d cabin and
steerage passengers. Mr. J. T. Norton identified me at the
Metropolitan Bank. I procured a Bill of Exchange for 50
Pounds sterling of Brown Brothers and Co., 59 Wall Street,
for which I paid $243.89, the rest of my funds is in Am. Gold,
by advice of Mr. Brown. I procured a Passport at the Custom
House. I enclosed to J. C. E. my 3d of Exchange, reserving
2 copies for myself. Pa will please take charge of it. It needs
no endorsement, as Mr. Brown told me. I left my trunk at
Taylor's Hotel, containing my daguerreotype which is some-
what damaged, and ' * Memorials of Prof. J. P. Norton, ' ' given
me by his Father. — Wednesday A.M. — Fine clear morning.
We are getting under weigh, and have every prospect of get-
ting outside the Hook in an hour or so. The sailors make a
lot of music, and of a rather pleasing character.

Among Mr. Johnson's fellow passengers were Pro-
fessor Noah Porter, afterward President of Yale Uni-
versity, Mrs. Porter and Mr. E, Norton of Farmington,
Connecticut, a brother of Professor J. P. Norton. Mr.
Mason C. Weld, who had been a student of scientific
agriculture under Professor Norton from 1848 to 1853,
accompanied Mr. Johnson from New York and was his
roommate during the whole of his stay in Germany.

Mr. Johnson wrote from Liverpool on June 1 :

— We arrived here Monday May 30th, later than we antici-
pated on account of losing our wind. Yesterday the whole
party of the New World's cabin, except one, went together
to St. James' Park, and witnessed part of a cricket match.

40 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

In the eve. we went to the Zoological Gardens and saw animals,
pantomimes and fireworks. Today we all go to Chester to
visit the celebrated antiquities there. Thence Weld and I
go to London tomorrow, the rest of the Party go elsewhere.
We are in excellent health and spirits. Weld and I are stop-
ping at the Waterloo House, a fine English hotel, and we do
justice to all the comforts, eating and sleeping with a ven-
geance. I have written so much for the Northern Journal
that I may be excused for doing so little in this. If I had
plenty of money, Merry England would keep me for a few
weeks, but one gets pretty well bled here, and we can't stay.
Goodbye till a week or two, when I get in Germany I will
give my address so that letters will reach me. — Don't com-
plain because I have not written about every thing! —

(From a diary)

Thursday June 2d, 1853. Took 2d class train for London.
Stopped an hour in Crewe — got breakfast in a cottage.
Arrived at London at 7 o 'clock. Drove to Sam 's coffee house,
302 Strand.

Friday June 3d. Walked out in morning to St. James'
Palace, Green Park, Hyde Park, etc. Called on Dr. Darby,
thence went to museum of Economic Geology. Saw Mr. Price
who gave us letters to Dr. Hoffman. Looked over their cabi-
nets and went home. Called at Mr. Way's laboratory, found
Mr. Ogsten, Way being on the cont. Had a chat and went
home.

Sat. Went to Royal College of Chem. Dr. Hoffman turned
us over to Mr. Morley who showed us through the rooms.
Went to Way's as stated by mistake in paragraph above.
Called again on Dr. Darby, left sugar. Visited Zoological
Gardens and thus finished the day.

Sunday June 5. Went to Westminster Abbey and heard
service.

Monday June 6. Called at the American Legation, saw

LIFE AND STUDY IN EUROPE 41

Mr. Ingersoll and Mr. Cram, had passports vised, went to
Lee's and left directions for binding. Visited British Museum.
"Went to 302 Strand and napped while Weld went to St.
Paul's. Got dinner, and went to Cavendish Square to attend
meeting of Chemical Soc. Met Price there.

Tuesday June 7. In morning visited Tower. Saw the
Armory and Jewel Room. "Walked through the Thames
Tunnel. Crossed London Bridge to the Station of the S. E.
R. R. Dined, spent afternoon in Hyde Park, Kensington
Gardens, etc. Had a look at and into St. Paul's.

Wednesday June 8. Exchanged money. Settled accounts.
"Wrote home. Squared up all around and left London at 6
P.M. by S. E. R. R. for Dover, with through tickets 2d class
for Coin. Arrived at Dover at 9 P.M. Looked about a little,
embarked at 11 P.M. for Ostend on a Belgian Steamer. Spent
the night miserable in her cabin.

Thursday June 9. Arrived at Ostend very early and in a
fog. Had no difficulty with the Custom House, got break-
fast and a commissaire, got rid of ' ' viel geld. ' ' Took an early
train to Ghent. Riding to Ghent found that 2d class tickets
were not available thence to Coin. "Were obliged to purchase
3d class tickets in addition, and then were allowed to take 1st
class cars and go ahead. Had sufficient to admire in the
scenery of some parts of the route (vide Murray). Had pass-
ports vised at Aachen. Arrived in Coin in good time, got
baggage through the Customs and drove to the Germanischen
Hof — found an English-talking landlord and got good
accommodations.

Friday June 10. In morning took a look with a commis-
saire around and through the famous old city of Cologne.
At 11 A.M. left by R. R. with tickets for Paderbom (vide
Murray for remembrances of route). Arrived at Paderbom
in fair time to book for "Warburg by Schnellpost. Drove to
the "White Swan — had supper and a jolly good time, and at
near midnight drove off in a diligence.

42 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

Saturday June 11. Snoozing and waking arrived at War-
burg in the early morning. Took R. R. for Cassel, meeting a
Conducteur who spoke English, a jolly good fellow who took
us to the ' * Konig von Preussen, ' ' got us diligence tickets etc.
to Gottingen, whither we posted at 10 o'clock after looking a
little at Cassel. Arrived at Gottingen at 4 o'clock. Found
the "Krone" and High Worthy Herr Rettman, who toasted
on champagne and got off ''true pain to sham friends" —
took us around to the fellows' rooms. Found none but Wil-
liams at the Gardener's House. Coming into town found
Weyman and Uricoechea, had a jolly good time until bedtime.

Sunday June 12. Went to Reformed Kirche and in P.M.
to gardens.

Monday June 13. Hospiteered on Dr. Waltershausen.
Saw Hof . Woehler and the Laboratory.

Tuesday. Hospiteered on Hof rath Woehler. Rode out to
the Plesse in the afternoon.

Wednesday June 15. Made our partings and left for Cassel
at 4 P.M. whither we arrived in good season, got supper and
left by a night train, the first of the season, for Halle.

Thursday June 16. Morning found us in Halle. Went to
the Kron Prinz, got breakfast and sallied out to find Mr.
Young, — in two hours of search by the final aid of a German
student found his room, and in 3/4 of an hour found him.
He took us to see a German friend of his who gave us letters
to Menzel of Leipzig. Called on Chapman, thence went to
Station, and were soon on the way to Leipsic, where we
arrived at noon, stopping at the "Hotel de Baviere. " After
dinner sallied out and called on Dr. Erdmann, found him
and his Lab. open and right. Himself talking some English
and jolly. Found Menzel and with his aid after two trials
found a nice cheap room with apparently a nice Wirth and
Wirthinn. Returned to the Baviere and lodged.

LIFE AND STUDY IN EUROPE 43

Friday June 17. In morning got over to our lodgings,
adjusted accounts to some extent, entered the Laboratory and
got agoing on Ultramarine, bought Will's Outlines, 2d ed.

Saturday June 18. Heard Dr. Erdmann's lecture. Worked
in Lab. 3 hours of morning. Dined at "Hotel Garni Kaiser
Oesterreich. ' ' In P.M. called on Hof . Morgenstern and were
fairly received, but must call again with testimonials. Called
at Hugershoff's establishment.

Sund^iy. Walked in Rosenthal.

Monday 20th. Attended Dr. Erdmann's Vorlesungen, and
went with him and Weld to Hofrath Morgenstern, where
Weld presented Uncle Ben's Emphfehlungs Brief and the
Hofrath talked like it. Returned to Lab., finished Ultramarine.
Visited Hugershoff and made a few purchases.

Tuesday 21. Worked in Lab. on an etwas seltener Sub-
stanz. Purchased hardware, etc.

Wednesday. Continued work and developed the Haupt-
sache of Pechblende, Uranoxyd. Found besides Lead;
Bismuth, Iron, Alumina, Lime, Magnesia, Silica. Ordered
Lamp from Hugershoff's.

Thursday. Things as usual. Prof, gave me an organic
salt, which I soon found to be picrate of potash. Then came
a mixture of Propylic, Butyric and Valerianic Acids, or some
of them. Concluded from behavior of silver salts that it is
mostly Propylic in combination with Soda. Bought a fine
umbrella at 4 Th. Weld and I walked over to the Polizei and
were allowed to come "Morgen. " Letter to Uricoechea.

Friday — June 24. St. Johannis Day. Went to Laboratory
and found it shut. Returned, ordering Lowig, and Lehraann 's
Phys. Chem. The former was sent me. Found Butyric and
Valerianic acids well treated of. Propylic briefly. Made
improved blowpipe tongs, after Weld's suggestion, all but
platina points. Received permission of residence from the
police. Walked out into the Johannis Thai, the "Gottes
Acker's" etc.

44 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

Saturday June 25. Worked in Lab. the forenoon. Made
some progress on the Chamomile Acids. It is quite certain
the Butyric acid is in pretty large quantity. In afternoon
went to Brockhaus Buchhandlung. Purchased Liebig's Org.
Analysis, Schawz's Maasanalyse and Weber's tables. Ordered
Liebig and Kopp's Jahresbericht for 1850 and 1851. Our
Wirth brought us Will's Analysis and Erdmann's Lehrbuch.
In afternoon had a call from Menzel.

Monday June 27. Worked in Labi Free, mixed acids by
AgONOs for at. wt. detr. Called on Dr. Zenker and took first
lesson in German.

Tuesday. Wrote home. Worked in Lab. Gave Prof, etwas
Zucker. Undertook atomic wt. estimation. Blundered all day
hunting crucibles, (Royal Porcelain depository was not open)
drying and weighing, finally got it nearly finished.

Wednesday June 29. Finished At. Wts. of Valerianate of
Silver. Rec'd letter from Uricoechea. Went out to the
Military parade. Bought bathtub.

Thursday June 30. Analyzed a substance used by the
Chinese to procure Kindtodt, found only FcsOg and SO3 and
HO, but no WO3, no TiOg as a Belgian chemist had reported.
In evening went to concert in Rosenthal. Ordered Huger-
shoff's best balance, got new Spirit Lamp.

Friday July 1. Rather unsuccessful in preparing xl Malate
of Lead from crude Malate of Lime. Dr. Erdmann's Lecture
on Pt. Pd. Os. Ir. was very interesting. Spirit Lamp and
Iodine distinguished Pd. from Pt.

Saturday July 2. Dr. Erdmann lectured on Gold. Men-
tioned the gilding of the cut section of a platina gilt coin.
Was unsuccessful in getting xls of Malate of Lead from the
evap. sol. of yesterday. Cleaned platina ware. Procured
Alkalimeters of Hugershoff. Weld and I adjudicated our
accounts.

Sunday. Went to Nikolai Kirche in the morning. Walked
about town in P.M. Birthday.

LIFE AND STUDY IN EUROPE 45

Monday. Found lead salt of Malic Acid crystallized, but
in small quantity. Undertook preparation of Acid Malate of
Lime, morning will tell how successful. Great Fire. Visited
Am. Consul. Weld rec'd weekly Post of June 16.

Tuesday July 5. Found fine xls of Ca02M at Laboratory.
Our "Wirth has at last finished our book binding.

Wednesday 6. Unsuccessful attempts to procure more xls
of CaOM. ¥\re in Great Windmill Street near by Dr.
Zenker's. Could not get to the Dr. for the military that
guarded the streets. Got our inscription at last, for 6 Th.
25 sgr. 4 pf. Went to Theater in eve. to see Hamlet done in
Deutsche. "Es stinkt zum Himmel." Got a cheap place
for 20 sgr,, which in the morning we might have bought for
half the money.

Right Hand of the Rector !

Thursday July 7. Obtained our Pocket cards in morning.
Was desperate sleepy in Dr. Erdmann's Lecture. ]\Iust sit
near the window tomorrow. Still worked at Malate of Lime.
One week at Malate of Lead. Es Muss! Dr. Erdmann's
story of the bees as big as bears with hives of usual size. But
how can the bees get into hives, smaller than the bees them-
selves ? * ' Na, sie Miissen hinein ! ' ' The Malate of Lead muss !

Friday. At Malate of Lime etc. Treated Malate of Lead
after Dr. Erdmann's directions. No xls. Prepared newly
acid malate of Lime. Evap. the old stock of malate of lead
prec. by SO3 and HS.

Sunday 10. Nikolai Kirche.

Thursday 14. Took tea at Dr. Zenker's. Had jolly social
time with Herr Dr., Frau Doctorinn und Fraulein Marezoll.

Friday 15. Dr. Erdmann opened to Weld about Berzelius,
Liebig, Gerhardt. Commenced on Butylic Alcohol.

Saturday 16. Attended Neumann's Lecture on Snow and
Rain. Was visited in evening by Konig.

46 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

Wednesday. Fusel oil.

Week ending July 30. In Lab. worked at Fusel oil.
Friday our balance was done — cost 69 Rthl. Saturday Graf
Weld and I took a walk to Napoleon's Denkmal. Ate at
Stotteritz and had a good time.

Sunday. — ^Wir gingen morgen zum Catholisches Kirche und
nachmittag zum Schiitzen-Haus, das Sommerfest zu sehen.
Da begegnen wir Herr Ebermeyer mit ein Deutschen Freund,
Mr. Costello und ein Franzoser mit eine Englische Damen.
Wir sprechen viel Deutsch und den heiligen Tag zerbrechen.

Thursday 4. Things grow old if they do not progress.
Heard music in Neu Markt.

Friday 5 Aug. Lab. as usual, and there gouged two fingers.
Attended Sommer Theater. Found letter from home, on
return to room, dated July 17, mailed 18, left New York 23d
July — 13 days from New York.

(A. A. J. TO S. W. J.)

Dear Son, — . . . — It is quite natural that you, in a
strange land divided by 3000 miles of Ocean from your native
land should think of it and home with deep interest. At
least I hope so, and believe you do and will continue to, but
as you have gone there for improvement you will, I am quite
sure, use your time to advantage. As you speak of the hours
they were all employed, and you borrowed time to write.
Have relaxation enough to ensure health of body and mind,
for what will knowledge avail without them? You and Mr.
Weld must watch over each other for good, as I trust you
will, both for time and Eternity. The manners and customs
of the people differ widely from ours ; and yet there is much
good there to be copied, no doubt, and evil to be avoided,
which I have confidence to believe you will do wisely. You
have not said whether you are among Papists or Protestants.

While it is necessary that you economize well, I don't want
you to suffer loss in improvement by being too much stinted

LIFE AND STUDY IN EUROPE 47

in necessary means, — I suppose you will not want anything
more from me before next winter. As I told you before leav-
ing home, you must let me know long enough beforehand so
that I can raise the means without having to make sacrifices
to get the money; and also the manner of transmitting it to
you, or your obtaining it by draft on some house in New York
or elsewhere. I want to get along to supply you without
involving myself or property, if possible. Easton will want
help, Esther wants a piano, etc., etc., but your case stands
first on the lists. My heart is larger than my treasury. I
want to make all things meet right. I abhor to be in debt.
I should be unhappy if my pecuniary concerns were deranged.
I want when I leave the stewardship to leave it uninvolved, if
possible.

May the Lord bless you. —

(From a diary)

Tuesday 9. With Weld walked to Gohlis, and read upon
an arched gateway "Here lived Schiller and wrote the hymn
to Joy in the year 1785," and in the upper story of a little,
funny house the poet lived, over the window of which was a
sign "Schiller Stube. " I carried home and pressed among
other flowers 3 sprigs of a Lubiate from near the gateway.

Monday August 15. No more lectures from Erdmann.

Friday 19. Call from Hiller who brings report from the
American colony at Gottingen, walked about town with him
and had a revel in Auerbach's Keller.

Thursday 7 — Saturday 17. Studied Schiller.

Saturday 17. Weld returned from Thuringia 4 A.M. At
about 10 we moved to our new lodging 1678 West Street.

Week from 17 to 25. Discontinued lessons from Dr. Zenker.
Remarked the opening and progress of the Fair. Rec 'd letter
from Father with Independent. Several Tribunes arrived. I
purchased two Agate mortars for 16 Rthl. Translated some-
thing in "Holland Dairy and Cattle."

48 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

(S.W.J. TO A. A. J.)

Leipsic, Sept. 23, 1853.

Dear Father and friends at home, — . . . — I have staid
in Leipsic the whole of the vacation since the 20th of July,
and shall probably remain here through it, i.e. till Oct. 20.
Mr. Weld made a journey of two weeks with knapsack
on back through the Thuringian Provinces lying west and
slightly south from Leipsic. I would have accompanied him,
but wanted to study German, and concluded to remain here.
... I was greatly rejoiced to hear that Mother had been able
to make so much of a journey as the one to visit Uncle
Charles. I wish she was over here, I would like to "tote"
her down to Lombardy to spend the winter where the climate
is not precisely like that of Deer River. As to newspapers.
Weld and I now take the Tribune for Europe weekly, it costs
5 dollars per annum including postage. I have received a
copy of Northern Journal of Aug. 31 containing some R. R.
talk and the Independent. The Independent though marked
paid was not marked franco which is the only paid under-
stood here, and cost me 3 groschen, 7 1/2 cents. The Northern
Journal cost me 20 cents, being so covered up in wrapper as
to pass for a letter. The German postoffice is a puzzle, so all
the Americans here concur in saying. I spend usually a half
hour daily in a reading room in the city where, besides one

U. S. paper "The Satanic Press" the infamous H , I find

the London Times, Punch, and several other English journals
besides hosts of German papers. With regard to the Caven-
dish Society, the subscription is $6.00, more or less, annually
according to the number of volumes printed. The New York
agent is H. Bailliere. He is paid for the current year and
I have the receipt.

I have money enough to last till March, and more too, unless
unforeseen expenses arise. My estimate of necessary living
expenses for the winter — for 6 months — is as follows and is
liberal so far as I can judge.

LIFE AND STUDY IN EUROPE 49

Rthl. Out of the 145 Rthl. (Rix

Board 40 Thalers ) balance must come

Washing .... 10 books and other conveniences.
Laboratory and Lectures 40 In March we intend to go to
Light and fuel ... 10 Munich. Prof. Erdmann has
Rent and lodging . . 20 seen Baron Liebig and en-
Clothes 30 gaged places for us in his

Et ceteras .... 30 laboratory. Munich is the

cheapest city in Germany,

Total Rthl. . . 180 there the gulden = 42 cents,

Cash on hand . . 325 will go as far as the Thaler

= 73 cents in Leipsic, so say

Balance . . . 145 authorities in travel. My bill

of exchange for 50£ obtained
in New York brought me here 333 1/3 Rthl. or about 73 cents
per Rthl. The loss is thus about 4 pr. ct. of the actual value.
The Rthl. having an actual value of 70 cents. Whether this
loss in exchange can be avoided or not I don 't know. If I can
have a remittance of $100 in Feb. I will lay out for books,
especially aa Leipsic is the place for books. If it will not be
convenient then or before to remit, I will hold on to my extra
100 Rthl.— . . .

(From a diary)

Thursday Oct. 6. Gillingham called on me at 8 A.M.
Walked with him into town, left him to arrange his business,
and went to Fritzsch. Found there the 3d volume of Leh-
mann. Ordered at 25 pr. ct. discount a lot of books. Thence
to visit Waring and Coolidge, talked a pleasant hour with
them, then found Gillingham and went with him to Dr.
Vogel's 1st Burger Schule, Prof. Allen shortly came, and
we made a circuit of the school. Examined the Dr.'s maps
and Nutz Plans. Saw a class of boys writing to a tune.

Saturday 8. Pleasant day. Wrote in morning, at 3 P.M.
called on Messrs. Waring and Coolidge, found Mr. Allen of
the Burger Schule da. Ging mit Herm Waring und Cool-

50 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

idge Herr Dr. Zenker zu besuchen, die Herren sich bei ihm
zu studiren entschlossen. Bought tickets for the Gewandhaus
Concerts.

Thursday 13. Visited Waring and Coolidge. Was called
upon at 4 P.M. by Mr. Pugh just arrived from America.

Jason Clark Easton had married Mr. Johnson's sis-
ter, Sarah, in 1851. His letters show that Mr. Easton
was some time in finding his true vocation in life, try-
ing first one then another occupation, and meeting with
a fair share of success in each. It was not until he
encountered the problems presented in the settle-
ment of the Northwest that he found his opportunity.
There he foresaw the form the development of the
country would assume ; he became a successful banker
and was largely concerned in the construction and
management of railroads in Minnesota, in the exten-
sion and development of which he took an active part.
The affectionate intimacy of boyhood continued until
old age, and kept him and Mr. Johnson in close sym-
pathy. The dominant characteristics which shaped
the lives of the two men, starting under conditions so
nearly identical, are interesting. Widely divergent in
their development, each recognized in the other a
capacity which he himself did not possess and found
hard to understand, while admiring and respecting it.
In November 1853, Mr. Easton wrote to his absent
brother-in-law, closing with these words:

— As much as I want to see you, I do not want you to come
home till you have done all you have intended. I want you
to come out a strong man. I am proud of you as a brother
and expect to see you one day one of the first scholars in this
country. I wish I was rich, I would send you all the funds
you wanted. I don't, however, apprehend that you will lack.

LIFE AND STUDY IN EUEOPE 51

If you do, I will help you to stay there six months or a year.
So don't be uneasy about money. Write me a few lines often.
I will willingly pay the postage. We are all so glad to hear
from you that we have a little sort of Jubilee when we get a
letter from you.

Mr. Johnson now had the happiness of feeling that
his prolonged expenditure of time and money on his
studies was fully approved by the two men whose
business judgment he most valued, his brother-in-law
and his father — who only a few weeks before had
reassured him on this point, saying:

While you can improve your state of knowledge stay there,
for some time to come. I shall expect to furnish means as
you desired, if possible. If I can get along without lessening
the fountain, the stream flowing will be larger. I hope to do
so, for if the fountain head begins to lessen there may be
danger of its becoming dry. I must keep my expenses within
my income, but I mean to keep you supplied with the neces-
sary means. You are remembered by all in love. —

In these days, when money can be so easily and
cheaply sent abroad, the following letter is worthy of
note as showing different conditions sixty years ago
and the fortunate relations which enabled Mr. Abner
A. Johnson to forward remittances to his son mthout
undue expense :

Deer River, 31 Deer. 1853.

Dear Son, — After waiting with painful anxiety more than
two months, yours dated 26th Novr. came to hand. . . . Could
you find time to write more letters they would be very grati-
fymg to your friends. As to that you must be the judge.
Be sure not to overtax yourself physically or mentally. I
hope to live to see you, much improved in body and mind.

52 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

Your abstemiousness in meats and drink will be very likely
to promote health, if you do not overtax yourself with too
close application to studies. . . . Knauth, Nachod and Kiihne
want 74 1/2 cents for the Prussian thaler, I think it paying
rather dear. I have been today to Carthage and let Mr.
Stuart have $210. He will send it to Mr. Le Ray. Mr. Stuart
says you will get the money. You will write to Mr. Le Ray
de Chaumont, Rue St. Florentine No. 2, Paris, that your
father has P. Sommerville Stuart's receipt for $210. to be
sent to him for you. He, Mr. Le Ray, will either pay the
amount on your draft or send in some way so that you will
get the money, so says Mr. Stuart, very surely, but how much
it will cost he does not know. He says money in Europe, as
in this country, is merchandise, but so far as he and Mr.
Le Ray are concerned, they take nothing more than they pay
out. Mr. Stuart seemed very willing to send, he has money
to send besides yours, and has nearly every week, and it all
has reached its destination. ... I wish you a happy New
Year. God bless you and make you useful. Your Mother is
more comfortable. Our love to you. Affectionately,

A. A. Johnson.

James Donatien Le Ray de Chaumont, through his
intimacy with Benjamin Franklin, who passed several
years in his father's house at Passy, became interested
in American affairs, and in 1785 visited this country
on a business errand for his father, who had given a
substantial part of his large fortune to the cause of
American independence. Through the influence of
Gouverneur Morris, Mr. Le Ray then made the first of
his large purchases of "wild lands" in Northern New
York State. His son Vincent, referred to in the pre-
ceding letter, was educated in France, and after May
1807, resided on the New York State lands, where his
great house at Le Raysville is still standing. In 1853,

LIFE AND STUDY IN EUROPE 53

Mr. Vincent Le Ray de Chaumont had returned to
France and was living in Paris, but he still took lively
interest in his American possessions, and was in close
communication with his agent, Mr. Stuart, who lived
at Carthage, four miles from Deer River. Mr. V. Le
Ray employed agents in Europe to procure emigrants
for his American lands, on which at this time were
fully three thousand French and German settlers.
To these he advanced their necessary expenses in
taking up the land; he also was in the habit of
extending banking courtesies to his New York State
neighbors.

On January 24, 1854, Mr. Johnson acknowledged
the receipt of this remittance:

Dear Father, — Yours of Dee. 30th came to hand 4 days
since, and while I was waiting to get some advice as to how
I should request Mr. Le Ray de Chaumont to forward the
money, the transmission of which to him Father's letter men-
tioned, I rec'd a note from him written in French inclosing
a "first of 'change" to the amount of 294 16/80 Rthl. on
Hammer and Schmidt, bankers of Leipsic. 210 -^ 294.5 =:
71 1/3, very considerably less than 74 1/2, making this an
excellent method of transmission. The Bill of Exchange I
presented this morning to Hammer and Schmidt, and they
are ready to cash it as T want it. I also mailed today a letter
(in English) to Mr. Le R. de C, acknowledging the receipt
of the draft, and thanking him for his kind offices. I am sur-
prised that such long intervals find place between my letters.
I should write oftener but that it seems a pity to pay so much
postage on a short letter, and the daily events of ray life do
not furnish material for very long ones. I shall now try to
bring up my arrears to all the people. — I am greatly obliged
for the new stock of funds. Having laid in a good stock of
books, I have nothing more to do than to keep away from the

54 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

bookstores and pay my living expenses. While I feel that it
is desirous to be able to lay broad the foundations of future
usefulness, I shall strive to make no unnecessary expenditures
and hope to live and repay — ^partly in money, if needful —
the long list of debts that I owe my dear and deeply honored
Father, whom may Heaven bless in time and Eternity. . . .

The same mail carried letters to his mother and to
his little sister, Elizabeth, then aged eleven:

Zwei und Zwanzig Nikolai Str.
Leipzig, Konigreich Sachsen,
Januar den 24ten.

Dear Mother, — The above flourish is intended to assure you
that your dutiful son is able to write two short lines of German
in German style, — an evidence of my progress in literature.
"What I can write of German life that will interest Mother,
I don't know. The mothers of Germany are like those of
other parts of the world in many particulars. The German
education of ladies usually stops with a full inculcation of
the duties and details of housekeeping. Daughters of literary
men learn languages, and this is all, save that they all know
music and can drink beer, two things which are mysteries to
me. They are great lovers of flowers, and every patch of
ground and every place where a flowerpot can stand or hang
is appropriated. On a fine day the city promenade is covered
with nurses drawing children in neat little basketwagons, the
little innocents packed warmly between large pillows, two
or three of them often together in the same vehicle, enjoying
the fresh air. The amount of amusement furnished to chil-
dren is astonishingly great. There is no end of toys, games,
etc., of all possible kinds. The little boy of my landlord has
swords, guns, pistols, drums, fifes, violins, wagons, birds,
horses, etc. by the bushel, and something new every week.
The old people keep up the love of amusement acquired in

LIFE AND STUDY IN EUROPE 55

infancy or childhood. Concerts, balls, "tea fights" etc., are
continually on the carpet. The poor journeyman who earns
besides his board and lodging 75 cents a week considers his
" Vergniigen, " i.e. Pleasure, an item of expense as necessary
as his clothes. Ladies here not only drink beer and wine, but
also punch, or grog as they call it. This however is nothing
alarming, no spirit is consumed here that would burn alone
and while very many manage to keep jolly a large portion of
the time, nobody gets drunk. One of the niceties is rum in
tea. Coffee is immensely drunk. A German breakfast con-
sists of 2-3 cups of strong coffee, without milk most usually,
and two little rolls taken immediately upon getting out of
bed. It is foreign and barbarous to eat a meat breakfast.
Dinner is a long and formidable affair — coffee is used as a
sort of lunch between meals and by many as a winding-up
of dinner. A hotel dessert is bread-butter and cheese. Pies
are only to be had at the confectioners or coffee houses. Cakes
are made in vast variety. Every day now, one meets lots of
people in the streets carrying baskets of a kind of cake tasting
like butter cracker somewhat, and shaped like oo . "Pret-
zels, warm and soft" is the cry, but they are invariably cold
and usually hard ; they sell at 3 or 4 for a cent. At Christmas
a kind of plain fruit cake was in great vogue, called "stolle."
Every family baked for itself, if it had conveniences. A big
piece, like a thick stick of stove wood, was presented to Weld
and myself from our landlady, and was productive of memo-
ries of the further buttery. I intend one of these days to
write to the Cultivator an account of a market day in Leipsic.
The agreeable duties of marketing are mostly confined to the
Ladies. The country ma'ams and misses come into town
from all directions early in the morning, some in bags, some
in rags, some in wagons, and some in leather breeches and
sheepskin roundabouts or sacks. Some of the more important
ride, but the larger number take their own conveyance. They
bring their truck of all sorts, cabbages, carrots, beets, blos-
soms, black bread, 'taters, turnips and all imaginable kinds

56 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

of greens in baskets upon their backs. They take their station
in the street or in the market place, and sit all day long, rain
or shine, freeze or thaw, and sell their commodities — gossip —
drink coffee — if cold, warm their fingers over little pots of
charcoal — and when night comes, travel 1 to 5 or 10 miles
back to their houses. I bought one day a bushel of apples
of a market woman, and she brought them to our room. It
was cold, and of course we had a fire. The old lady labored
up two pair of stairs without minding it, and setting down
her burden exclaimed, ' ' Oh, it is warm here, it is not warm at
home ! ' ' We have had but a few cold days. But they were
hard for the poor, fuel here is very dear and many suffered
when the cold was most intense. . . . Leipsic is a well gov-
erned city. There is very little suffering compared with that
found in many German towns. But Mother, the paper is so
near full that I have space only to wish you a happy New
Year — a year of renewed health and strength. Most affec-
tionately, My dear Mother, Your, Samuel.

Dear Sister Elizabeth, — The letters you have so kindly
written me have given me great pleasure, and with no lack
of pleasure I now attempt to answer. I shall tell you a story
of Christmas time in Leipsic, and all about the pretty custom
here of making little folks happy about these days. Many
good people here believe that Christ was born on the 25th
day of December, and nobody knows to the contrary — and
since the gifts of "peace on earth and good will to men," of
redemption and everlasting joy in Heaven which he gave to
his children by coming on the Earth to die for them, were
brought on Christmas evening, the good people of Germany
make their children pleasant gifts on this night, to make them
happy and remind them of the Savior who has given them the
great gifts. My good friend Dr. Zenker called on me the
23d of Dec. to invite me to his family Christmas festival to
be held the next day. I went at the appointed time, and found
4 other Americans, all acquaintances, invited to join in the

LIFE AND STUDY IN EUROPE 57

festivities. Several other young people were present and,
besides the Dr's 4 children, a little boy and girl from a neigh-
boring family. On entering the house we heard the voices of
the children in one of the parlors where they were staying,
impatient for the signal that should announce that the tree
was ready and summon them to receive the Christmas pres-
ents. After waiting some time the door of the Dr. 's study
was opened, the children were led in, and we followed. On
one table were the gifts for the Dr. On another were arranged
as many plates as were guests invited, and on or near them
were cakes, nuts, candies, etc. On a sofa and .floor were
arranged presents for the children, and in a comer stood the
Christmas tree, a pine branch 5 or 6 ft. high, set upright on
a wooden pedestal, having little candles made of various
colored material burning at the end of the twigs, and hung
with ribbons, colored paper and a host of nuts, raisins, little
cakes, etc. Each one now was conducted to his portion of
good things, and we began shortly to look at each other's
presents and amuse ourselves in conversation, which you may
be assured did not slip my tongue quite so easily as it would
have done could I have spoken in English. Dr. Zenker received
many nice gifts from his good wife, new curtains to his study
windows, a huge piece of "stolle" or fruit cake as big as a
very thick stick of stove wood, a box of cigars, — for every he
German smokes, — a fine medallion of Goethe the great Poet,
given by an American, and cakes, candies etc. The children
of course had the fine things. One had a kitchen with dishes,
stove, hams hanging on the wall and all the fixings complete,
another had a chamber with furniture, dolls, etc. The little
boy received a riding horse, a gun, a flute. I found on my
place a teacup and saucer made in Leipsic and having a pic-
ture of the city upon it. Tea cakes, sausages, herrings, and
other simple refreshments were at jtimes distributed. We
talked lots of German, were all vastly happy, and at 10 o'clock
bid the Dr. and Doctorinn good night. They wished us "to
sleep well," and "to come and see them right quickly again,"

58 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

and I have not been there since. I could write lots more but
the paper is nearly used up — so goodbye — Samuel.

Baron Liebig, who had left Giessen, was preparing
to reopen his laboratory in Munich, and there was
some uncertainty as to when it would be in running
order. Through correspondence with Munich friends,
Mr. Johnson learned that the expectation was that
the building would be finished by May, and that
the semesters would correspond to the regular univer-
sity semester — the lectures commencing on May 2.
The rules adopted at Giessen for the conduct of the
laboratory would continue in force at Munich. Baron
Liebig 's response to a formal application from Mr.
Johnson and Mr. Weld was as follows:

Miinchen 14 Febr. 54.

Ich beehre mich Sie zu unterrichten dass ich mit meiner
Ubersiedelung nach Miinchen den praktischen Cursus welchen
ich in Giessen Melt aufgegeben habe und keine Schiiler um sie
zu unterrichten mehr annehme. Ich habe iibrigens das hiesige
Laboratorium so eingerichtet dass einige geiibte junge Chemi-
ker, die Sinn und die Hiilfsmittel fiir eigene Arbeiten bringen
konnen und wenn Sie einige Aufgaben die Sie selbst gewahlt
mitbringen und hier ausfiihren wollen so will ich Ihnen einen
Platz einraiiraen ohne weitere Verbindliehkeit fiir mich ausser
fiir den Fall wo ich Ihnen besondere Aufgaben die mich
selbst interresiren iibertragen diirfte. . . . Ergebenst der
Ihrige,

Dr. Just Liebig.

Herrn Samuel Johnson und Herrn Mason C. Weld.

(From a diary)

March 22, 1854. Packed up affairs at Leipzig and left at
7 A.M. for Halle with Pugh in company. Found Young in

LIFE AND STUDY IN EUROPE 59

Halle, with him visited Salt Works (Salinen). Heard the
story of the headman, and saw the stages of manufacture,
took specimens. Visited Prof. Heintz, found him burning a
fatty acid. He showed us pure Palmitic, Stearic, Lauro-
Stearic and one other acid, xlzed in scales, and remarked on
the general law that mixtures of these in certain proportions
gave needles of margaric acid, so called. We looked around
his small but busy looking Lab. and left most favorably im-
pressed with his kindness and ability. Took leave of Pugh
and Young, and 4 P.M. found Jacoby in Magdeburg. With
him visited the Dome, a splendid old church. Walked about
the city till 6 P.M. and left for Potsdam whither we arrived
at 10 P.M. We shortly found the Stadt Wittenberg and took
lodgings without further adventure.

March 23. At 2 P.M. left for Berlin. Arrived there, we
called at Waring 's lodgings, but he was not in. Shortly Prof.
Porter overtook us on the street. We settled lodgings at 75
Dorothy Street, then walked about town somewhat, called on
Prof. Porter, then took supper at a restaurant and shortly
turned in,

March 24. Got out at 8 A.M. and heard Prof. Gustav
Rose lecture capitally on Rothgiiltigerz and Fahlerz.

Then visited Rammelsberg, calling first at his house where
we saw his lady, but found him in shirtsleeves at the Gewerb-
schule. He received us very cordially and showed us his
Laboratory, including the admirable gas arrangements, the
pipettes with glass stop cocks, sulphuretted hydrogen appara-
tus, etc. We promised to hospiteer tomorrow and left. We
then called on Chapman after dinner, which I took in simple
style in the Thier Garten. We then called on Prof. H. Rose
who received us in the most friendly manner and invited us
to tea on Monday Eve. At 4 P.M. we surveyed the Frescoes
on the Museum, then I returned to room and went to Mitscher-
lich's Auditorium, but there was no lecture.

Saturday 25. In morning heard Prof. H. Rose from 9-11
on vanadium and chromium. Then spent two hours in the

60 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

Old Museum. Then went to Cafe de Baviere and dined with
Waring and Burton. Thence we went to Heureuse cafe and
ate Connecticut pie and drank chocolade. Called an hour or
so at Waring 's room and then went to my inn. Bought a 20
Rthl. suit of clothes and visited the American Minister Gov.
Vroom in the evening. There made the acquaintance of
several Americans.

After several weeks of travel, Mr. Johnson settled
in Munich, where he worked for eleven months under
Liebig, von Kobell and von Pettenkofer. He also
studied German agriculture. The number of English-
speaking students in Munich was small, the common
language became a common bond, and the life, com-
prising many different interests, gave a broader cul-
ture than in these latter days of specialization. Mr.
Johnson mingled with the musical and artistic set of
students, and his increasing mastery of the language
permitted familiarity with the riches of German litera-
ture, interest in which was stimulated by social inter-
course with the family of Professor von Kobell, the
chemist and poet. In the first letter sent home after
reaching Munich, he said:

I have at last arrived at Munich where I shall probably
spend the 2d year of my European residence. I arrived here
in a snow storm. The climate of Munich is the worst of all
Germany. Lying at a great elevation and near the Tyrolese
Alps, it is subject to great and sudden changes of tempera-
ture. But I don't believe it beats what I have been accus-
tomed to. A Blackriverite can stand all any thermometer
can. There are here Geo. J. Brush of Brooklyn, Geo. W.
Weyman of Pittsburgh, Penn., M. C. Weld and S. W. John-
son— all old companions in the Yale Laboratory — and another
of our old company, 0. D. Rood of New Haven, is on the

LIFE AND STUDY IN EUROPE 61

Atlantic and will join us in a few weeks. Weld and I have
very nice quarters with a very nice family, and in Munich,
a city inferior to none of Europe for its treasures of Art, and
with Liebig in Science, we have the promise of a most pleasant
as well as profitable time. Baron Liebig is now out of town,
but returns in a few days. I shall probably attend some
lectures on mineralogy and other sciences, but as before I
shall be mostly occupied in the Laboratory. My money has
run rather low, but I shall get along very well until July or
August, and perhaps later, and then I shall not need a very
heavy sum. —

(S. W. J. TO A. A. J.)

July 3d. 1854.

Dear Father, — ... I continue to enjoy excellent health,
better than for years, — better than last year. Everything
goes on most pleasantly and I am progressing in my studies
most satisfactorily. I am glad to hear that some vines of my
planting are growing to give pleasant shade and that my old
Birch tree has begun to be evidently alive. . . . Father says,
if I visit Paris call on ^Ir. Le R. de Chaumont, etc. It is
perhaps time that the question of my further movements be
discussed. What I wish to do is one thing, what I can do is
another. My mind is now made up to stay here until next
April or May. Then I shall have finished 2 yrs. Then I
shall go home, of course, if I have not means of staying, — I
should be a fool if I didn't. But, — but, — I think I ought to
stay one year longer and if I saw the way I would certainly
stay 2 yrs. Next spring I shall go to Paris as I can't leave
Europe without seeing that city. It happens that the attrac-
tions of Paris are as great in science as in fashion, and there
are a dozen great men there with any of whom I should be
proud to study. There is also to be a Crystal Palace, or World
Exhibition, opened there next spring and for these reasons,
as well as for acquiring a talking use of the French language,
I want to stay 6 months in Paris. My education would be

62 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

very incomplete without it. Again, very likely the best open-
ings for me at home will be in the way of Agriculture. After
my 2 1/2 yrs. at Chemistry, I want to spend a 1/2 yr. at
Agriculture more exclusively. For this Edinburgh is the
place. There is science, and in the vicinity is practice. I want
6 months in England. I won't say anything about how
inestimably valuable it would be to me to spend another year
in Germany. When I think of Heidelberg, and the great
Bunsen ; of Berlin, and glorious old Heinrich Rose, — my heart
or stomach, something in that neighborhood, aches. I have
just got to be able to appreciate and enjoy Germany. I have
conquered its tremendous language in so far that it gives me
no trouble, and yields me great positive pleasure. Today I
am 24 yrs. old, old enough to know more and to be more.
My calculation would bring me at 26, another year in Ger-
many 27. That is pretty ancient for a young man. But
could I, I would spend my days till 30 yrs. in this glorious
old Europe. But I ought perhaps to go home and put a
shoulder to the wheels of progress in my young native land — ■
with all her youthful stains vastly more glorious than the
monarchies of Europe. What shall I do ? Shall I stay 2 yrs.
longer, or only 1 ? Of course I can 't very accurately estimate
the necessary expenses, but I suppose that $500. would pay
my way in Munich, take me on a visit to Paris, and bring me
home about a year from this time. Living in Paris and Eng-
land is far more expensive than here, and I should probably
need $7-800 to carry me through the 3d year. I need to know
before October whether I can stay 1 or 2 yrs. longer, because
if I stay 2 yrs. I shall study French here next winter so that
I shall get to Paris able to Parlez-vous a little. I am very
thankful that the French were not so badly confused at Babel
as the Germans were, their language is comparatively small
potatoes. Now my friends must make up their minds what
they can give me. I have no desire to impoverish the good
people and shall appear at Deer River in 6 months if so
ordered. If the tune is $500, I shall be home next spring.

LIFE AND STUDY IN EUROPE 63

As to the money next to be sent, it is all the same to me, 200,
300, 500 dolls., either sum will last till it is gone. 300 is
enough for a long time. I can take care of more, but I get
no interest here, and that may be worth something at home. —

(A. A. J. TO S. W. J.)

Deer River, July 28th, 1854.

Dear Son, — I have a desire to live to see you established in
some useful station, be that as it may, I hope we shall both
so live here that we may live hereafter where there will be
no more death, I believe it is our privilege. I also desire to
live to see your young sisters come to mature age with a pros-
pect of their usefulness and respectability. You express a
desire to stay longer in Glorious Old Europe than the two
years. That depends upon circumstances. If I live and can
furnish the necessary funds, you can stay. If I should be
taken away the means may not be available in time to answer
your purposes, as the obligations in my possession run a long
time. I should think there might not be much doubt but that
you might have funds in some way for the third year. I hope
that with the last remittance you will be able to get along
till March or April, but you must be furnished, even if you
need sooner, tho' the amount set apart to last till the above
mentioned time is pretty well used up now.

We have read ten of your letters in the Country Gentleman,
of considerable length. The editors crack them up pretty well.
Love from all, especially your Mother.

(J. C. E. TO S. W. J.)

Lowville, June 9, 1854.

Dear Samuel, — Your April letters have been received and
read and re-read by all the connections in Deer River and
here. ... I have fixed upon no definite course for the future.
I have thought of the western country, but Sarah objects.

64 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

If money was the only thing to be thought of, I should
not hesitate to decide that as the best course. If I go
with a view of making money, I should be obliged to
go to some new part of the country where anything like
decent society would be out of the question. The pleas-
antest thing I can think of would be something like the
operation you and I once talked of on "Uncle Abner's"
flats. What would you suggest as best for us to do?
July 27. "Uncle Abner" and Esther have just been here
and brought your June letter which he has just received.
He says he intends to enable you to remain 3 years at least.
. . . Rather than have you fail of your plans, I shall, if pros-
pered, assist you some myself, so go ahead, lay out the ground
work large for a big edifice and do not trouble your head
about the money, for I believe it will be forthcoming. — "We
can hardly be reconciled to have you stay away so long ! — . . .
Your friend and Brother, J. C. Easton.

(A. A. J. TO S.W.J.)

Deer River, Octr. 4th, 1854.

Dear Son, — . . . Now Samuel, write once a month and
I will willingly pay $1.20 postage, or more, yearly. It seems
a great while since you left, now nearly 18 months, and to
think of 18 months more that you wish to stay ! What changes
may take place is known only to Him who knows all. . . .

I forked over $293. today to A. S. Goodrich the blind man,
for a pianoforte. It is put up at J. C. Easton 's and Esther
is performing on it. The railroad companies have stopped
work in these parts. The Utica Co. will complete the road
to Booneville before doing anything this side. Money is
scarce, they cannot sell their bonds, and all the stockholders
have not paid all the calls. I have paid 7 installments of 10
pr. ct. each on $400. — am glad I took no more stock, $120
will finish my liabilities and if I lose all, can get along a
while. Our love to you.

LIFE AND STUDY IN EUROPE 65

(S.W.J. TO A. A. J.)

Munich, Oct. 5 — 54.

Dear Father, — I have been so long delaying to write a good
long letter that now, seeing no immediate prospect of getting
ready to do that, I take this slip of paper, determined to fill
it and send it off. I gave accounts up to the middle of Aug.
and later, I believe, in my last to Jason. I have been all the
time in Munich and have been mostly (^uite well, am now very
well. The cholera, after carrying off 3000 — 3 pr. ct. — of the
citizens of Munich, has been officially declared to exist here
no longer as an epidemic, and things are getting lively again.
I was surprised a week ago by a call from my old friend
James Waring who hammered through St. Lawrence Co. with
me 4 or 5 years ago. He has been travelling through Europe
the last 6 months. He staid here 5 days and we did up all
the Munich sights, and they are neither few or small. . . . My
correspondence with Mr. V. Le Ray de Chaumont has extended
to other than money matters. His first letter was French,
I answered in English. He wrote me this summer a Yankee
letter, inquiring about the navigation of the Danube near
here. I had the pleasure of giving him some information he
wanted. I commenced yesterday taking instruction in glass-
blowing from Mr. Greiner, a celebrated thermometer, etc.,
maker here. I go again today as soon as I finish this. I can 't
neglect so good a chance of acquiring some skill in an art
so useful to me. The next semester opens in 3 weeks. I shall
then do little but attend to Laboratory work. I have been
studying Agriculture (German Authors) this vacation and
shall do more of the same sort of thing.

I send Mother a new kind of Rose, the Munich Rose. They
do not grow except in their native city. I can't get a slip,
or a young plant. I have only been able to get a blossom.
This, although somewhat dry and flavorless, is yet rather
pretty and will keep a long time, fully retaining its colors.
I send it to Mother since I have no sweetheart or no sweeter

66 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

heart to whom to give it. In constant though faint expectation
of receiving a letter, I remain as dutiful and affectionate as
I was 10 yrs. ago, Samuel.

Mrs. Abner A. Johnson was a lover of flowers and
a skilled cultivator of them, her garden containing
many little known varieties.

(S. W. J. TO A. A. J.)

Munich, Friday Oct. 27, 1854.

Dear Father, — Today rec'd yours mailed at Deer River the
6 and at New York Oct. 10 — My letters to Lowville and Deer
River (one each) have probably arrived before this unless,
as may be the case, one of them went down in the Arctic, the
loss of which has been known, — or reported, — here some week
or more but is not mentioned in the latest N. Y. papers which
arrived today. I rec'd the money all right in time, though
at a rather late time. It occasioned, however, no incon-
venience. I was absent from Munich when it came and it
was two weeks before I returned, and then I delayed some
days in order to get up a decently large letter. Munich has
recovered its usual healthfulness. The lectures of Baron
Liebig commence next Thursday and the laboratory will be
open for work on next Monday,

I wrote some month, — or more or less, — ago to Easton
mentioning a plan I had of employing myself when I get
home, a plan of opening a school of Ag. Science in connection
with Lowville Academy.* I expect shortly to hear from him
and the rest of the family on that topic. I wrote a letter
some weeks since to Father enclosing a Munich Rose to Mother,
Has it arrived ? If not, I will get another slip. In my letter
to Easton I talked of getting home next summer, and so it
will probably be best to make it. I could study here in Europe

* Fifty-eight years later, in 1912, a course in Agriculture was added
to the curriculum of Lowville Academy,

LIFE AND STUDY IN EUROPE 67

quite a number of years and then be but a beginner, besides
the expense is great. In about 18 months I have spent more
than $900.00, and I am a little frightened to think of what
I need, or think I need. I don't want to impoverish my good
friends who have done so much for me — those good friends
are more particularly one, familiarly known at Deer River
by the title of Uncle Abner. At the same time this is certain,
I shall never be a student again, and certainly not in Europe
when I once get back to the U. S. It would be a little relief
if I had some prospect in view of employment at a safe
recompense; then I would borrow some money, but as it is
I think I must go home and go to work. I must, however,
travel somewhat next spring and summer. That is a costly
but invaluable way of learning. I must study French des-
perately the next five months and then, with three languages,
I can profit by journeying. I can then take the chief countries
of Europe slick and clean. Travel is especially important
for me if 1 go into Agricultural Science and Practice, and
there is probably the best chance for me. My expenses this
winter will be rather high; that is, it is desirable to acquire
a good deal and therefore the cost will be a good deal. I
must study French with a private teacher and take lessons
a long time, not less than 100. Since I don't live in France,
I must buy practice. I calculate that in addition to my pres-
ent small stock of funds, I shall need $150. — 325 gulden — to
get along till the 1st of April, 5 months. This is just $1.00
daily. Of this my living will cost me 135 fl. or $54., rather
low, leaving $96. for Laboratory, French, Lectures, Clothes
and all other incidental expenses. I say nothing about books,
since I have been putting my last remittance pretty well
through on that score and feel rather obliged to hold up.
Fortunately I do not need to buy many clothes. My present
stock is nearly sufficient. This allowance is rather small,
even for Munich, but I shall try to stick to it. For next spring
and summer, for 4 or 5 months travel, sending home my
traps and getting home myself, $600. will be the least

68 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

figure. Of this, I shall endeavor to make arrangements to
raise a part by correspondence. More of this in future letters.
Nov. 1st. Tomorrow the Laboratory is again open, and
Liebig begins the winter course of lectures.

Nov. 2d. Everything is very dull, dull, very tedious,
tedious, except just a few things the folks don't care any-
thing about. I can't philosophize, nor moralize, nor senti-
mentalize, my head is full of ideas that are only interesting
to myself, and I think I will lay aside this sheet and add a
few lines to an article I am writing on Potato Disease for the
Country Gentleman. ... As to the time and manner of
sending more money, I leave that to the judgment of the
Good People. Whether a bill on London or on a house here
is best, I don't know. If I get a remittance in Jan. or Feb.
it will be time enough. If the money can be had, the cheapest
way would be to send me say $400. this winter and then I
should be supplied for a good share of the summer, and I
could receive the balance in London or Paris. If the figures
I make are too high for Father's convenience, why then I
must, and of course shall, regulate my plans and expenses
according to what can be furnished. When I get home, if
I am so lucky, I shall doubtless be able to return something
to the treasury which I now so liberally drain. I have for-
gotten to say anything about my plans of starting an Ag.
School, but in my last I have said enough. —

(A. A. J. TO S. W. J.)

Deer River, Deer. 5th, 1854.

Dear Son, — Yours mailed 5th Novr. was received on Tues-
day 28th. I wrote to J. C. E. and Sarah that evening to come
on Thursday the 30th. and make us a Thanksgiving visit, —
and also to read your letter. We are now experiencing the
severity of a Black-River snow storm. Our Rail Roads have
come to a standstill. It is owing to the want of money in this
time of pressure. Money is said to be tight. And yet if a

LIFE AND STUDY IN EUROPE 69

Farmer has cheese, butter, beef, pork, or any kind of grain
or cattle, it will bring the money at a large price. Cheese,
9 cts., butter 21 to 22, wheat $1.75 to $2., barley $1.00, corn
87 cts., rye the same, oats 50 cts., etc. etc. I shall try to
collect together $400. some time next month to send to you.
What interest and payments are coming to me will not come
before March to April, and may not then, although I shall
expect some.

Had you not better look to some professorship in some
college or seminary ? If you wish to do so, can you not obtain
a situation through some of your literary friends, or through
Luther Tucker or somebody ? You speak of writing "to Easton
about opening a school of Agrl. Science in connection with the
Lowville Academy, he has not received it. If such a plan
would pay, I should be well pleased with it, if not, it should
be let alone. The Munich Rose was received in your October
letter, for which your Mother is grateful and we all well
pleased. You may have orders for more of the same sort.

I believe you do not wish to impoverish your friends. I
am willing to deal out for the benefit of my children as much
as I can prudently, when the prospect is for their good rather
than their greatness, — though none can be truly great unless
they are truly good. You rightly say you shall not any more
be a student, — I suppose, in the sense you are now. I sup-
pose you always mean to be a learner. Traveling anywhere
is expensive, especially in Europe. If you can get something
for correspondence, it will help so much. . . .

Abby and Annah say they want to see you. They send
their love. They write afternoons, study Colburn's Arith-
metic and Smith's Geography. Should you live to come home
again to see them, they will have altered much. Alay Heaven
bless you spiritually and temporally is the prayer of your
aflfectionate parents.

Abby and Annah were twin sisters, eight years old,
the youngest of the family.

70 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

(J. C. E. TO S. W. J.)

LowviUe, 8 Dec. 1854.

Dear Bro. S. — Sarah and myself have been enjoying today
a visit to Deer River. Your Father has just been reading
your letter. I am glad that the time of your return is fixed
so near. Not that I am anxious that you should be cut short
in the valuable opportunities you have in Germany of study,
but am impatient to see you, the time seems so long. I am
aware that the advantages you are having in Europe are
invaluable in the prosecution of your future plans and will
probably make a very great difference in your future success.
As you intimate, it is getting time for you to define your
position on the great stage of life. It is not wise, considering
the shortness of human career, to spend too much time in
getting ready to act. We should never cease to be students,
yet to be students merely will not do. Our acquirements
must be turned to practical account. . . . Wouldn't the sit-
uation as State Chemist of Massachusetts be a nicer thing
than the Agricultural School you speak of establishing at
Lowville? If we were to remain at Lowville, nothing would
please me more than to have you here. I do not think un-
favorably of such a plan. . . . But government patronage

with the fat appropriations Mr. speaks of are just the

tools for a man of your cloth to work with. With such a
situation you will be "in town." Massachusetts seems to be
taking a high stand in Agricultural reform. And I think
there is no part of our country more favorable for the prose-
cution of your designs. . . .

Father Johnson received yours just about Thanksgiving
Day. So Uncle Abner sent to Carthage, got two turkies,
visited his own hen-roost, and got up a Thanksgiving feast
for his children. He wrote to us, but unfortunately I was
away from home and did not get the letter until it was too
late. Amos and Harriet, Margaret and Silas, being of the
children, were there.

LIFE AND STUDY IN EUEOPE 71

I am still engaged in settling up my business and intend
to go west — to look — about April. I shall be home ready to
see you when you come, which I conclude from what you
say will not be later, at least, than August. Should life and
health be spared to us till then, I calculate we shall have a
joyful meeting. Write when you get this and we will perhaps
get it in time for a family gathering about New Year. . . .

"Amos and Harriet, Margaret and Silas" were all
valued helpers and sharers in the family life.

(S.W.J. TO A. A. J.)

Dear Father, — Aware that it is more important to write
often than much, I send a line or so by this week's mail — I
continue in good health and am too busy to know any news
to send. ... I acknowledged the receipt of the money in a
large letter which appears to have sunk with the ill-fated
Arctic. I have since written repeating the acknowledgment
and do it now for the 3d time. In my last I talked about
plans and wants. I am rapidly getting short of funds, but am
in no pressing hurry, although I ought to receive at least a
small remittance before long and a considerably larger one
by about March, as at that time I must pull up stakes in
Germany and move westward with the Star of Empire. I
regret to leave Munich so soon, and would so like to stay a
year in Paris and a time in England, but it won't do to think
of it. In my last, I talked about my plans for traveling. If
they are thought too expensive, I give them up. I feel it
almost a duty to buy more books, but I can also forego this,
and will content myself with visiting Paris a few weeks in
the spring, and then go to England, and after a few weeks
more go home — I shall then have been two yrs. out. Tell
Mr. Storrs I can't possibly find time to fulfill my promise to
write for the Northern Journal. The short time that remains
I must improve most assiduously if only to accomplish what

72 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

I have already undertaken. The Country Gentleman has
published all it has rec'd from me, and I don't know when
I can write more. By the way, my article on analysis of soils
has been translated for publication here in the Journal of the
Bav. Ag. Soc. Mr. Brush and I translated last summer a
little book of Prof, von Kobell's on mineralogy. The manu-
script has arrived at New Haven and Prof. Silliman has
promised to attend to its publication. I must go to Lecture —
Dec. 14, 8 A.M.

Feb. 10, 55 — ^Yours of Jan. 5th came to hand two weeks
ago. I have delayed answering in order to acknowledge the
recp 't of the $420 which came to hand yesterday. It amounted
to 2193 francs in Paris and brought me 1003 2/3 florins here.
The florin accordingly costs me a trifle less than 42 cts. which
is very fair. Mr. Le Ray de Chaumont writes ''My last
despatches bro't me notice that your good father had paid
my agent $420 for you, etc." He makes inquiries as to the
prospect of settling Bavarian emigrants on his land, etc. He
writes a genuine American letter. I continue to be in capital
health, as are all the American Legation in the gay Bavarian
capital. Weld, Eood, Furness, Furness, Savage, Blight,
Irapson, Emerson and Johnson are the Americans, and Mus-
pratt, a radical Englishman, goes with us. All capital steady
fellows, and jolly withal. I have been translating a long
article of Baron Liebig 's, at his request, for publication in the
U. S. It is on agricultural chemistry and on the famous
Experiments of Lawes and Gilbert of Rothhamsted. I have
sent it to Mr. Tucker, but doubt if he will publish it for various
reasons. It is very long (57 MS. pages) and rather uses up
Mr. Lawes, with whom Mr, Harris, the new assoc. ed. of the
Country Gentleman, lived a couple of years as assistant. I
have directed Mr. Tucker to send it to Sec'y Flint at Boston
in case it is not wanted for the Country Gentleman, and it
will then appear in some other periodical. Mr. William
Furness of Philad. is an artist of great promise now studying
here. I sat to him for my portrait which he has taken in oil,

LIFE AND STUDY IN EUROPE 73

and which the fellows say is a good hit. He wishes to send
it to his father to look at, and it will get around to Deer
River in the course of 6 mos. or less. I shall leave Munich
in April probably, I can't say definitely, and may go directly
to Paris or possibly stop a few weeks at Hohenheim near
Stuttgart in Wiirttemberg to visit the great Agric. School.
"When at Paris I shall be able to decide on the future.
Stephen A. Johnson writes me that he learned from a recent
letter of Father's that I have two sisters, one of 16 yrs. and
another of 13 yrs., and asks me what I think of their having
an English education. He does not say whether he had
written to Deer River anything about it. I read that Eliza-
beth has a lame limb, but I don't know whether it is sister
Elizabeth or sister-in-law Elizabeth, and further I don't know
whether it is a little finger or a leg that is lame. In either
of these cases I hope that nature may be left to cure it, and
the doctors not be called to spoil it. And now, as usual, I
don 't know what to write about. My life passes in the labora-
tory, and I can write nothing about it that would interest
anybody. I see little society. Occasionally I am invited to
dine or spend an evening at Prof. Liebig's, and then have
very pleasant chat with his accomplished daughter, now
betrothed. (All the young ladies are betrothed with cere-
mony some 1/2 to 5 yrs. before marriage.) Occasionally I
visit the family of Prof, von Kobell, and talk English vdth
his three daughters who speak, besides English and German,
French and Italian with great fluency. Besides these two
families I have never been in any others in Munich. I write
to be remembered affectionately to all the relatives and
friends. I hope before another half year to get back home
to find them all well and happy. I would write them all long
interesting letters, but I can't do it. Spirit and flesh are
weak. The evidences of my friendship are to work hard the
little time that I have yet to spend here, and not to bother
them with my dull letters. —

74 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

Answering inquiries made by Mr. Le Ray de Chau-
mont as to the productiveness of his lands in Croghan,
New York, Mr. A. A. Johnson wrote :

Deer River, 20th of March.

Dear Son, — . . . Mr. Le Ray's lands are not generally of
very good and strong soil, so far as I am acquainted with them
by observation and general reputation. The current of emi-
gration sets to the west where lands are already cleared of
timber mostly, and sell at $1.25 per acre and three or four
dollars per acre will fit them for fine crops, therefore his
lands cannot compete in market with the western lands, in
climate, nor productiveness, A man who can get hold of
western land, say 80 or 160 acres, and pay for it and build
some kind of a comfortable dwelling place, in a few years
will with industry and economy be above board; while the
same industry and economy in Croghan will find him
struggling for a bare subsistence, he will probably have better
health — and that is of great account — but people in their
anxiety for this world's goods, don't value their health as
highly as they wish they had when they are sick. . . .

We hope to see your portrait by the artist Mr. William
Furness of Phila. within 6 months, and the original too — and
when we see both will be able, for ourselves at least, to judge
if it is a good hit. I have received two letters from Stephen
A. and answered both, in his last he wanted my daughter 16
years old (Esther) to come to Manchester, and me to come
with her, and leave her there to be educated. I wrote to him
that it was not at all likely she would go or I either. If my
daughters could have all the advantages this country affords
for education, and they rightly improve them, they might
be quite as useful as many European ladies. It is your sister
Elizabeth that has a lame limb, not a little finger but her left
leg. She hobbles about with a cane. When it will get well,
time will tell. She is now using a little Massina spring water,

LIFE AND STUDY IN EUROPE 75

it won't do hurt if it does no good. J. C. Easton and Sarah
staid with us last night, he bro't the piano and it is set up
in the hall and Esther plays occasionally on it. . . . Our love
to you. Affectionately, A. A. Johnson.

(S. W. J. TO J. C. AND S. J. E.)

Heidelberg, Apr. 21, 1855.

Dear Jason, — I left Munich last Wednesday morning and
have arrived here on my way home. I enclose to you several
letters, all alike, to Am. publishers. By reading one of them
you will understand what it is about. I don't expect this
thing will take to such a tune as will be satisfactory to the
Baron Liebig. ... I stayed a couple of days at Stuttgart
and visited Hohenheim, the great Ag. School of Wiirttemberg,
and mail today a letter about it to the Country Gentleman.
— Not to talk about publicly — is the fact that it is slightly
probable that I may be appointed chemist to the State Ag. Soc.
of New York, also that probably I may have offers to conduct
an Extensive Ag. School near Philadelphia, — but of this more
hereafter. I shall be either in Paris or in London by the first
of May. — Extraordinaries excepted. Love and regards to all
who need or deserve. —

Dear Sarah, — I send you this little engraving of Heidel-
berg, the beautifully situated and romantic old touTi where
in 1386 the first Protestant University in Germany was
founded, now one of the most celebrated in the world. Ahem !
Bad sentence ! Go on ! . . . There are quite a number of
American students here. Here the great chemist Bunsen has
the finest laboratory in the world, not quite done. I wish I
could stay and work with him this summer, but this is out of
the question. Keep this picture and frame it in the style I
recommended for the Munich pictures. . . . Farewell,

S. W. Johnson.

76 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

(S. W. J. TO A. A. J.)

11 Victoria Park, Manchester, Eng.
May 26, 1855.

Dear Father, — I am at last in England. Arrived here two
days ago from Paris where I have been living three weeks.
I wrote last from Heidelberg about 4 weeks ago. I went from
there down the Rhine to Rotterdam, visited the principal
cities of Holland and Belgium in a hurry, and then settled
in Paris until coming here. I find Cousin Stephen living in
nice and comfortable style in the suburbs of this smoky town.
Victoria Park is a delightful place, a perfect English garden.
The house looks out in all directions on meadows, gardens and
handsome houses. I have not yet looked about enough to
know what I shall do. England is the place where I can
learn the most in Ag. matters but it will cost an awful sight
of money; shillings and crowns here are like kreuzers and
gulden in Germany. I believe I had better take the loan of
$500. poor Barnard provided for me and remain here as long
as I can, i.e. if possible till the middle of Sept. for then the
British Association meets at Glasgow. Prof. Liebig will be
there and would put me through a little. I also want to
attend the meetings of the Royal and Highland Ag. Societies
in July.

In Paris I rec'd from Stephen A. $ 50.00

To get home to New York will cost by

steamer and I don 't choose to go any other way 150 . 00
On the channel coming to London the other

night I felt how miserable it is to go to sea

My boxes etc. etc. getting them to whatever
destination I decide upon will cost I don't
know how much, but probably not less than
fifty— say 50.00

$250.00

LIFE AND STUDY IN EUROPE 77

I suppose I have but $400. as Father promised, — there
remains $150. for my stay and travels in England which
could scarcely last one month. Add to this $500. and we have
$650. or 130£ with which I can circulate some time.

In my last I wrote about what Mr. Tucker communicated
to me on the subject of becoming chemist to the Ag. Soc. of
N. Y. It need not he mentioned out of the family that I am
wanted at Yale College as 1st. assistant in the Laboratory —
with a salary of $700-800 and prospect of shortly rising in
station and salary. This would of all things please me, for at
New Haven I should enjoy the best scientific society that any
place in the U. S. furnishes. One and probably two of my
friends and fellow students will be Professors there in a few
years. We shall see.

May 31. Today I saw Dr. Frankland, Professor of Chem-
istry in Owen's College here. I shall enter his Laboratory
tomorrow and work there a month or more. This will cost 5
guineas. He is very celebrated in gas analysis, and that is
what I want to learn. —

(A. A. J. TO S. W. J.)

Deer River, July 4th, 1855.

Dear Samuel, — Yours dated June 15th. came to hand on
the 30th., acknowledging the receipt of £50, $247.50, for which
acknowledgment so promptly made I thank you, and hope
when you receive another draft you will as promptly do the
same. I went to Lowville yesterday and purchased a draft
on some bank in New York for $500., for half of one per ct.
premium. I hope you will be able when you receive the $500
to get along comfortably with it, but if you find you want
some more, write me in time. I speak of more money only
in case you require more to carry out your plans for future
usefulness — and feel that you suffer loss for the want of
necessary funds to complete your plans.

78 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

I remembered, as did your mother, yesterday as the 25th
anniversary of your birthday. Today the 4th, the roar of
distant cannon and the prancing of horses and rattling of
buggy wheels ushered in the anniversary of American Inde-
pendence the 79th. While I write, Abby is at the piano play-
ing and singing "Mary at the Savior's tomb." Annah can
do the same, Esther Amelia is improving quite well, only
wants practice and some further instruction to be able to give
lessons to others. Elizabeth, poor lame girl, is taking lessons
from Esther and makes some proficiency. Gilbert and Eliza-
beth took a homemade dinner today with father and mother,
and the twins, and hired man and girl, — had our first dish
of green peas, planted 26th April. Abby and Annah send
their love to Brother Samuel, would be glad to see him, as
would all of us. I hope you may next fall return in safety,
and find a good situation. Be useful and happy in time,
blessed in eternity, is the prayer of your parents and friends.
Our love to Stephen A. and wife, would write to him could I
find anything to interest him. I am not capable of writing
other than business letters, and poor at that. Affectionately,

A. A. Johnson.

(S.W.J. TO A. A. J.)

Carlisle, England,

July 25th, 1855.

Dear Father, — . . . Instead of writing anything about the
Show here on this greasy paper, I will mail this week two or
three papers containing an account of the performances, and
leave the folks to read the Country Gentleman for what little
I scribble about it. I am stopping at a nice Temperance House
and pay $1.25 pr. night for lodging. Many people are paying
twice that money, and I was charged that at the place I first
applied. I shall probably go from here to Edinburgh, thence
to London and to the Ag. College of Cirencester, and sail in
3 or 4 weeks.

LIFE AND STUDY IN EUROPE 79

Father will have gathered from my letter by the last steamer
that I want no more money sent across the Atlantic. I think
that, unless for the sake of some of my friends who have so
liberally supported me abroad, I shall not avail myself of the
funds left by Barnard, That matter can at any rate be left
'till I get home. —

CHAPTER III

NEW YORK STATE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY:

THE ''UNIVERSITY OF ALBANY": YALE

SCIENTIFIC SCHOOL

In January 1853, Mr. Tucker of the Albany Culti-
vator published the first number of the Country Gentle-
man, which soon became the leading agricultural
journal. It exerted a progressive force as an active
advocate of scientific education and in its pages are
to be found full accounts of efforts to establish the
''University of Albany," whose promoters hoped to
attract to Albany leaders in every branch of science
in this country — as well as many from Europe — and
to found a great university which should include
schools of pure and applied science, of agricul-
ture and of the mechanic arts, as well as the ordi-
nary departments of graduate study. These plans
were urged towards fulfilment in the columns of the
Country Gentleman, and Mr. Tucker, treasurer of the
New York State Agricultural Society and personally
active in work for scientific agriculture, did much in
other ways to disseminate a sound knowledge of agri-
cultural science. Mr. Johnson's name is signed to an
article in the third number of the Country Gentleman
and appears afterwards with frequency, the last time
being just forty years from the date of his first contri-
bution in 1847 to the Cultivator. During the winter
and spring of 1853, a series of articles from his pen
appeared in the Country Gentleman under the general

YALE SCIENTIFIC SCHOOL 81

title, "What is Science!" As soon as he was fairly
settled in Germany he began to send back across the
water accounts of the scientific agriculture of Saxony,
and also translations from the French of Ville and
the German of Wolff.

In the ninth number of the Country Gentleman is
printed ''Superphosphate of Lime," dated from New
Haven, February 1853. In this article, which is re-
printed as an appendix to this volume, Mr. Johnson
discussed the value of certain commercial fertilizers as
shown by the results of his analyses of several sam-
ples procured in the open market and analyzed by him
solely to show the public utility of such work. The
controversy aroused by these analyses is described in
a letter from his father, October 1853 :

I suppose you do not receive the Country Gentleman or

Cultivator? If you do, you will see that ]\Ir. ^I 's wrath

is stirred against you by your analyses of his superphosphate

of lime. He has got Prof. E to make an analysis to

prove yours to be false. The editor of the Country Gcntle-

man talked to Mr. M , (for disputing you, I suppose).

Mr. M continued to rake you over the coals until

Professor Porter of Yale came out upon him and said he
knew that Mr. Johnson's analyses were correct. There has
been considerable ink shed on paper on the subject. !Mr.
Tucker said Mr. Johnson was a modest young man, as worthy
of the title of Professor, and more so, than some who wear it.
I would like you should read what has been written since you
left dear "Amerika" about you.

Mr. Tucker, at whose instance largely, the New
York State Agricultural Society had established a
laboratory for chemical analysis, came to the defense
of his absent correspondent, predicting as a result

82 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

of his ** thorough devotion to this branch of science
and his sound and discriminating sense, a brilliant
career of usefulness to his countrymen. ' ' Mr. Tucker
wrote in April 1854:

I presume, from your not alluding to it, that you have
neither seen nor heard of the controversy which grew out of

the publication of your analyses of M 's and D 's

superphosphate of lime. I shall send you all the papers, if

I can find them, in relation to it. You will see that M ,

instead of publishing your letter as I supposed he would
with his thanks for the credit you gave his superphosphate,
chose to assail your motives in making it, and made an effort
to prove it aU erroneous. I do not think, however, that your
reputation has suffered at all from his attacks.

I am very greatly obliged to you for your letters and shall
be grateful for any more sheets with which you may favor
me, both of letters and translations ; and I deeply regret that
the income from my paper will not warrant me in offering
you such compensation as you deserve. The publication of
your letters will serve to make you known and will, I trust,
in this way be of some benefit to you ; besides this, I shall try
to make you some reward for them hereafter.

(L. T. TO S. W. J.)

Albany, March 6, 1855.

Dear Sir, — Your favor with the copy of Prof. Liebig 's work
came to hand on the 2d. inst. . . . — on reading it, I came
to the conclusion that the better way would be to issue it in
a pamphlet. . . , This method of publication I trust will meet
the approbation of Prof. Liebig and yourself. I shall secure
the copy-right for your benefit, and place the profits, should
there be any, to your credit. I do not know, of course, what
the demand will be for it, but I hope it will be such as to yield
you $50 or so.

YALE SCIENTIFIC SCHOOL 83

After the receipt of your plan for an Ag. School, in Nov.
I wrote you on the subject, but my letter must have failed to
reach you, as you call my attention to it in your present letter.
Without going into the detail of what I then said, I will state
the conclusion at which I arrived, which was that your ac-
quirements were too valuable to be expended in building up
what could hardly fail to prove a mere local institution, and
that I hoped a way might be opened in which you could be
more satisfactorily employed, both to yourself and the
public. . . .

My plan is to have you employed as Ag. Chemist to the
State or the State Ag. Soc, and this I am growing more
and more confident can be effected by another winter; and
it might be done now had we a laboratory where you could
work. A law has been passed for rebuilding the old State
Hall, which will be done the ensuing summer. The rooms
for the State Society are to be greatly enlarged, and, as I
understand it, a laboratory is to be fitted up for their use.
Here it strikes me is the proper place for you, and here I
hope ere long to see you permanently established, with a
comfortable salary, and with nothing to prevent you from
devoting your talents and acquirements to the advance-
ment of the science of agriculture. I should be glad to hear
from you on this subject and have your views as to how
you could in such a situation best advantage the farming
interest of the State. This plan, for the reason I have named,
cannot be carried into effect until another year. In the mean-
time, the Academy at Ovid would be glad to get you to take
the place of Mr. Brewer, who leaves them in May to go to
Europe. . . . Efforts are being made to unite with this
Academy, Mr. Delafield's Ag. College; and if they suc-
ceed in this, you are just the man they would want
permanently. . . .

Neither my desire to promote the true science of agricul-
ture, nor ray appreciation of your merits, will permit me to
lose sight of any opportunity by which I think the joint inter-

84 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

ests of both may be advanced. Rest assured, therefore, that
I shall be prepared to serve you as efficiently as possible when-
ever the proper occasion arrives, believing as I do that I can
thus aid the progress of agriculture. Very truly yours,

Luther Tucker.

While resident in Munich, Mr. Johnson discussed
some subjects of permanent interest in the columns
of the Country Gentleman. In February 1854, he
brought to the attention of his readers the then newly
established agricultural experiment station at Moeck-
ern, saying:

The great utility of such establishments, and the hope that
the organization of similar ones in the United States may be
encouraged by an account of this, induces me to annex a
translation of the important features of the statute relating
thereto, and approved by the Saxon government about a year
since. . . . "What agriculture most needs is the establishment
of its doctrines, — not the proposition of fancies, or of facts
which hold good for this or that township, but the evolution
of a general theory, applicable everywhere. . . . The basis of
doctrine will not rapidly unfold itself. It must be unfolded.
If agriculturists would know, they must inquire. The knowl-
edge they need belongs not to revelation, but to science ; and
it must be sought for as the philosopher seeks other scientific
truth. When farmers contribute to the carrying on of inves-
tigations having for an object the discovery of the laws of
culture and vegetable growth, and conducted by minds that
bring to their task that requisite vigor, skill and knowledge,
then light will flood in where now is only obscurity. When
Ag. Societies make Experiment Stations their care and pride,
they will more fully and legitimately approach the accom-
plishment of their end, the perfection of agriculture.

While appeals to Legislatures have been made in vain for
the endowment of agricultural schools — while the means of

YALE SCIENTIFIC SCHOOL 85

agricultural instruction are comparatively nothing, and of
accurate experimental investigation absolutely wanting, it
remains to private or corporate enterprise to open the way;
and this is no unsafe adventure ; but, with no need of extrava-
gant outlay, will bring an ample return. The active minds
of Europe are united in their expressions of admiration and
astonishment at American progress, but here the means of
genuine advancement in agricultural knowledge are vastly
superior to our own. How long shall this be?

In May, he defined the limitations of soil analysis,
and refuted the popular error that an application
which should restore to a field all lacking elements of
fertility could be successfully prescribed by means of
deductions drawn from the results of chemical analy-
sis of the soil in question :

The continued recommendation of soil analyses, as a guide
to the farmer, makes it proper to discuss at length their prac-
tical value. As a means of developing the natural laws of
growth and cultivation, chemical analysis must continue to be,
as it has been, of the very highest importance. A few years
ago, in the infancy of agricultural science, it was found in
many cases, that analysis indicated correctly what improve-
ments were needed by soils ; . . . The accumulation of knowl-
edge on these topics has, however, clearly shown that, although
it is often true that the analysis of a soil economically indi-
cates the amendments that are needful to make it productive,
it is frequently the case that an analysis fails altogether to
furnish useful indications; and if its results are valuable, it
is often the ease that they cost more than they are worth, or
at least, knowledge equally good, j)erhaps better, might have
been far more cheaply and certainly obtained. . . . Soil
analysis, at the best, is a chance game; and where one wins,
a hundred may lose. A soil-analysis is always interesting,
often valuable, rarely economical. It may amuse the amateur.

86 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

and instruct the philosopher, but for the farmer its value is
small, if he has to pay for it. It is only by the application of
the general principles which may be developed from numer-
ous analyses, that he can hope to be directly benefited.

But what shall the farmer do ? Shall he grope in the dark ?
No ! But let him beware of false lights which are now-a-days
hanging out in abundance. Let him beware of taking advice
from two dangerous characters, — the conceited farmer who
knows a little science, and the officious philosopher who knows
a little farming. —

In October, he wrote on the practical value of the
analysis of plants:

The natural history, the chemistry, in short the whole
science of each agricultural plant, must be made the subject
of careful investigation. The knowledge of the general condi-
tions of vegetable growth has arrived at a pretty high state
of culture. We must henceforth seek to learn those special
conditions which determine the utmost development of indi-
vidual species. Science and Practice, the laboratory and the
farm, have this business to perform together. Every plant
can be put into such circumstances as will make it tell what
it needs for its successful growth. . . .

I trust that in this and a preceding article, I have written
nothing to discourage Agricultural Education, or destroy the
farmer's confidence in science. If any one promulgates false
doctrine in the name of science, he will be found out in time.
Truth remains and has a permanent value, no matter who
defends or opposes it. My object has been to define the limits
within which chemical analysis cannot be practically applied.
I desire to give chemistry all the credit it deserves, and have
too much regard for that beautiful science to bring upon it
future contempt by loading it with present adulation.

In a letter written from Stuttgart, April 1855, pub-
lished as "Foreign Correspondence," Mr. Johnson

YALE SCIENTIFIC SCHOOL 87

described the Academy of Agriculture and Forest
Culture at Little Hohenheim, at that time almost
unknown in America:

The pupils are mostly from wealthy families. A finer set
of young men I have not seen elsewhere in Europe. They
are described as full of zeal in the prosecution of their studies,
and when contemplating their animated and intelligent coun-
tenances, I could but hope that the day will shortly come when
the United States shall also engage her intelligent sons in
similar preparation for similar duties. Most of the graduates
of this Academy are afterwards occupied with the manage-
ment of great estates. . . , My stay in Hohenheim was ren-
dered peculiarly agreeable by the kind attentions of Prof.
Wolff, whose acquaintance I had made in Moeckern, near
Leipsic. Hohenheim has never had until now a man among
its faculty who has united eminent scientific ability with prac-
tical knowledge. It has been fortunate for the Academy that
practice has hitherto held there such dominant sway. It is
equally fortunate for it that it now has a teacher who is able
to show that practice and science harmonize in most points,
and who labors not so much to immortalize himself by pro-
pounding and defending ingenious theories, as to advance
practical agriculture by attempting the solution of the prob-
lems that are encountered in daily life.

Prof. Wolff has had fitted up a spacious though simple
Laboratory in which he instructs a goodly number of the
pupils in chemical analysis. He finds that when the course is
rightly conducted, it proves highly interesting, as it cannot
fail to be highly profitable for the pupils. It is in the Labora-
tory, and from the teachings of the capable agricultural
chemist that agriculture is to make rapid advances in its
doctrines and literature, while from practical instruction, the
existing good systems are to be brought into general appli-
cation. Hohenheim has hitherto been efficient in diffusing
agricultural knowledge; hereafter it cannot fail to become

88 LETTEE-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

as eminent for discovering new truths, which shall make itself
progressive as it now makes Wiirttemberg and the surrounding
countries so. . . .

Hohenheim is doubtless the best school of agriculture that
exists, and the agriculturists of the United States, who are
founding agricultural colleges, etc., will do well to send out
a few young men to take the course here, as part preparation
for stations as teachers at home.

During the latter months of Mr. Johnson's residence
in Leipsic, a warm friendship, based upon the similar-
ity of their aims, sprang up between himself and his
fellow student, Mr. Pugh. Evan Pugh, at the age of
nineteen, was a blacksmith's apprentice. He bought
the residue of his time, supported himself and studied
for a year; then, having fallen heir to a small estate
in Oxford, Pennsylvania, which included the rather
unusual adjunct of an academy, he taught this school
for two years. In 1853 he sold his school which had
prospered under his management, and went abroad
for study. When Mr. Johnson left Leipsic for Mu-
nich in May 1854, a correspondence on scientific mat-
ters began between Mr. Pugh and himself which was
only terminated by the death of Mr. Pugh. The letters
of Mr. Johnson were unfortunately destroyed, but Mr.
Pugh's earliest letters, written from Leipsic in 1855,
contain his response to Mr. Johnson's proposal that
they together should establish in America an agricul-
tural school:

In reply to your questions with regard to Am. Agricultural
School. — ... I sympathize, to the fullest extent with the
spirit of the enterprise you propose. . . . With respect to
your distribution of the studies and the length of the term,
you are in advance of my plans. ... To sum up: I enter

YALE SCIENTIFIC SCHOOL 89

with heart and hand into the spirit of your proposal excepting
that I would rather delay at least one year (to Sept. 1857).
... Of the success of the institution I have no doubt if it
once gets started on the basis you propose.

In the summer of 1855, Mr. Johnson went to Eng-
land, where he studied methods of gas analysis under
Frankland, and also traveled and observed English
agriculture. Letters from America kept him informed
of the movement of affairs in New Haven. As the
result of plans formulated between the years 1853
and 1855 for the development and organization of the
hitherto loosely connected elements of the Department
of Philosophy and the Arts of Yale College, the stu-
dents in the Analytical Laboratory and the classes in
Engineering were associated together in 1854 under
the name **Yale Scientific School," and at a meeting
of the Yale Corporation on July 24, 1855, the nomina-
tion of George Jarvis Brush* as professor of Metal-

• Professor Brush's life work, the development and guidance to
an assured position of the ShefTield Scientific School, is known wherever
the name of the school is known. The seemingly accidental way in which
he became a man of science is interesting. Professor Brush's father,
Mr. Jarvifl Brush of Brooklyn, was a successful merchant who, when
he found that the indoor life of a business man was likely to impair
the health of his son, sent him to the Cream Hill Agricultural School
to study scientific farming under an old friend. Dr. 8. W. Gold.
Through the interest taken by Dr. Gold and his son, Mr, T. S. Gold, in the
teaching of Professor J. P, Norton at the "School of Science" in New
Haven, George Jarvis Brush went to New Haven and was a member of
the first class to receive the degree of Ph,B, from Yale, Mr. Brush's
marked business and executive talent, as well as his scientific ability, was
early recognized. He became director of the Sheffield Scientific School
in 1872, and remained its official head until his resignation in 1898, Hia
success in a task which the temper of the time made one of peculiar
difficulty and delicacy was conspicuous. His business capacity and sound

90 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

lurgy was confirmed, and Samuel William Johnson was
appointed, not as he had hoped and as the faculty had
recommended, assistant professor, but merely first
assistant in the Analytical Laboratory.

Mr. Brush, who was then in Freiberg, wrote on
May 13, to Mr. Johnson :

Silliman says we have $250 income from the Sheffield fund
and $300 from the Labt. itself, and as Barnard has left $20,000
the income of which will be devoted to charitable and educa-
tional purposes, Silliman is in hope of getting $250 or $300
per annum in case you should take the place of Asst, at Yale,
making in all quite a decent salary to commence on. . . . S.
says "no effort of mine will be wanting to that end." . . .
Dana adds ''I have no idea that the school will ever flourish
until there is some one in it who has so much zeal for science
that he cannot help but work in it, in researches of one kind
or another." ... So you see, Sam, that we have the confi-
dence of the Profs., and I trust we shall be able to make things
move when we return home. We'll see whether we cannot
revive things and inspire some new life in the School.

(B. S. Je. to S. W. J.)

July 2, 1855.

My dear Sir, — I have the pleasure to inform you that you
have been nominated Assistant Professor of Chemistry in the
Yale Scientific School and as soon as your appointment has
been confirmed by the Corporation, which will be on the 26
of July, you will have official notice of it. We have for the
present decided to offer you as salary six hundred dollars pr.

judgment contributed largely to the result; but the fact that he was a
trained man of science, holding an honored place in his profession,
enabled him to wield an influence and to accomplish what would have
been impossible to one who lacked this important qualification.

YALE SCIENTIFIC SCHOOL 91

annum ; as an officer of the College you will, I suppose, be en-
titled to a room in the College buildings if you wish to use it,
and you can eke out your salary, should you wish to do so, by
private instruction in the schools.

Your name appears in the July No. of the Journal as Assist-
ant, which liberty I hope you will pardon. Prof. Porter and
myself are responsible for your salary, but $200 or $250 will
be the income of a permanent fund, the remainder if not
earned by the Laboratory will be made up by us. We are
sorry to be obliged to offer you so inconsiderable a sum, but
as you know the Laboratory is unendowed, and we are forced
to make it pay its own expenses, i.e. salaries of yourself and
Mr. Chas. Porter and the material and apparatus, fuel and
servant, etc. For ourselves we do not expect to draw a dime
from it, and shall consider ourselves fortunate if we do not
have to make up a considerable deficit. With the new organi-
zation, however, we hope for a new vitality in the condition of
the Laboratory. The new system of instruction in the Senior
Class by which recitations are substituted for lectures in the
proportion of 24 of the former to 36 of the latter will, when
it comes into full play the ensuing winter, develop all the
chemical talent that there is in the class, and no doubt induce
some to enter the Analytical Laboratory who other\vise would
not do so. Mr, Chas. Porter, who is the second in authority,
yourself being first, will take the commercial analyses and
aid you in such things as you may desire. During the first
term I shall have 3 exercises daily with the general class, and
can, of course, devote no time to instruction in the Analytical
Laboratory. But in the 2d and 3d terms I shall undertake
to give instruction in mineralogy and in technical chemistry.
Until Brush comes home in the fall of '56 we shall hardly be
able to make our scheme complete, and shall hold ourselves
open for a remodeling. . . . The old laboratory is in a good
deal of a dilapidated condition and needs repairs very much.
These we shall hope to make in vacation. — Yours truly,

B. Silliman, Jr.

92 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

Professor Brush, on August 17, expressed his
pleasure at Mr. Johnson's appointment:

Your note of the 4th was reed, a few days since. I am glad
to hear that you are so pleased with the idea of going to
Yale. . . . Things will go on swimmingly when you take com-
mand of the old Lab. . . . You will have hard work, but I
am sure you will enjoy it. Don't injure your health by over-
work. When we all get back and start our team in good
earnest I think we'll be able to do "some pumpkins," if not
more. Liebig is rejoiced to hear that you have an appoint-
ment, Rood says he was so tickled that he came all the way
in the Labt. on purpose to tell him of it. . . . But you, my
dear boy, will, I hope, be so situated that you'll have plenty
of time for pure science. You have a splendid field before
you. Scientific Agriculture is your Liebling, and you are
bound to stand No. 1 in your profession. . . .

In August 1855, Mr. Johnson returned to America
and to the Yale Scientific School. He superintended
the laboratory, gave instruction, collected fees, paid
the expenses, and, when needful, tended stoves, washed
apparatus and swept up the floor. On October 11, he
wrote to his mother:

I should have written before, but I am unaccountably busy.
The Laboratory has been in a sadly run-down condition and
I have hardly got it to rights again as yet. News I have
none. ... I am well and happy, i.e. busy.

On November 18, he expressed his disapproval of
the conditions under which he had taken charge of
the laboratory in a letter to Professor Brush. The
letter is not in existence, but the tenor of his remarks
may be inferred from comments in the reply:

YALE SCIENTIFIC SCHOOL 93

(G. J. B. TO S. W. J.)

I am very sorry to hear that you find yourself so unpleas-
antly situated in the Labt., that is, that you are obliged to be
1st Asst. without the title of Asst. Profr., and besides have
the responsibility of filling the offices of 4th Asst. and Labora-
tory servant. The idea that a man of your qualifications
should be obliged to be bottle washer is absurd enough. Silli-
man writes me that the Labt. is full, if so they can afford, or
rather they must afford, to have some one to attend to bottle
washing and making of reagents. Tin must be raised and
the present faults remedied. I wish I was home to work with
you, it would be much greater pleasure to me than remaining
here. But, Sam, I'll be home about this time next year, and
I hope that things will be so arranged that you will "stand
by the old shell" until that time. I know, Sam, that it will
be a little up hill at first, but I am sanguine that we can build
up a better chemical and mineralogical school at New Haven
than at any other point in America. You, unfortunately, have
the first and perhaps the largest tug at the hard work, but I
hope you won 't give up. I know that Dana and Silliraan feel
the vital importance of having you remain, and are provoked
beyond measure at the stupidity of the Corporation's blunder
of not giving you the title they (the Profrs.) had intended.

You must speak freely and openly about the Labt. to Dana
and Silliman, tell them what the faults are and what are the
remedies. You have no idea what a high estimate they put
upon your opinion. Your weakness, my dear Samuel, is ex-
treme modesty, put a manly face on the subject and speak
out your sentiments, and you may be sure they will meet with
the deep consideration which they deserve. . . . Stand by, old
fellow, and my word for it you'll not regret it. You must
have a Professorship, and it must be endowed.

Mr. Johnson found New Haven a delightful place of
residence, but he felt the absence both of opportunities

94 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

and facilities for doing the special work for which he
had so laboriously prepared himself. This dissatis-
faction led him to look for a position elsewhere; he
was seriously considering the possibilities of an agri-
cultural school in Pennsylvania, which might give him
the field he wanted in conjunction with Mr. Pugh, and
also employ the business talents of his brother-in-law,
Mr. Easton, who was still hesitating before breaking
all family ties in the East and casting in his fortunes
with the newly opened Northwest. In this connection
Mr. Easton wrote :

If there is a reasonable probability of doing what you sug-
gested with your Philadelphia friend and ray services are
wanted at a reasonable living price for the farming and busi-
ness department, I shall hold on and look to that as my future
business. Of course you have nothing tangible as yet on the
subject. ... I see your things in the Country Gentleman.
Go ahead, agricultural science is your missionary field and
you are responsible to the amount of some talents for its
cultivation. You are making some reputation by your posi-
tion at Yale College, and still more perhaps by your articles
in the papers. This is all right and I am proud of it. I
expect, if you live, to see you some one of these days.

When Mr. Johnson visited Albany in September,
he found Mr. Tucker and his other friends in the
New York State Agricultural Society still anxious that
he should join their working force in that city. This
society had been founded in 1832 by J. D. Le Ray de
Chaumont; from the first it counted among its mem-
bers men who believed in the possibilities opened by
science to the advancement of agriculture. When the
work of Justus von Liebig began to be known in this
country, and it became evident that chemistry was to

YALE SCIENTIFIC SCHOOL 95

revolutionize the conception of the processes involved
in plant growth and of the nature and sources of food
needful for the growing plant, these few far-seeing
men, who realized what might be accomplished for
agriculture through chemical knowledge and experi-
mentation, had quietly set about the work before them.
Through their efforts, in 1840, the New York State
Agricultural Society adopted a new constitution and
secured a Legislative appropriation of $8000 per
annum. In 1857, contrasting the conditions in New
York with the apathy in Connecticut, Mr. Henry A.
Dyer said:

In New York the Agricultural Society is the institution
of the State that all political parties delight to know, and
the strife, so far as it is concerned, between rival factions is
which shall give itself the best hold upon the general appro-
bation of the State at large by most heartily advancing the
operations of the Agricultural Society,

Dr. Ezra S. Carr, chemist to the New York State
Agricultural Society, was also actively engaged in
furthering plans for the great university. During the
fall and Avinter of 1855, Mr. Tucker and Professor
Carr were in frequent correspondence \s'ith Mr. John-
son concerning the future prospects of the ''Univer-
sity of Albany" and the State Agricultural Society,
and their wish that he should leave New Haven for
Albany. On October 1, 1855, Professor Carr inquired:

"Would it be agreeable for you to come to Albany if some
satisfactory arrangement could be made? At present I am
chemist to the State Ag, Soc. They will fit up a Laboratory
in the new State building the coming winter which ^vill afford
all the facilities of a private laboratory for analysis in re-

96 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

search. The laboratory at the Med. Col. will answer all pur-
poses of instruction. There are no fees connected with the
office of chemist, excepting the charges made for chem.
analyses, etc. A good Lab. however will be furnished free
of expense, and I think it probable that hereafter an appro-
priation may be obtained for researches in agricultural
chemistry. . . .

I do not know how remunerative this would be ; but it has
occurred to me that perhaps some connection (as a writer for
the Cultivator) which you might form with Mr. Tucker,
together with the laboratories, might yield a living compen-
sation.

A few days later he wrote again on the same subject,
saying :

I have no doubt that your income the first year would be
sufficient to defray your expenses, giving you at the same
time all of the advantages you could desire in the way of
opportunities to pursue your own chemical investigations. I
should be happy to give you all of the advantages which a
connection with the State Agricultural Soc. would afford, or
my own Laboratory at the Med. Col. for giving instruction,
etc. It would give me pleasure to have you come here to
reside, and I should like to see and confer with you in refer-
ence to the matter should you find it convenient.

Mr. Luther Tucker, who had long mshed to devise
some means by which Mr. Johnson might be enabled
to go to Albany and begin work there in the field of
scientific agricultural education while waiting for the
endowment which they all hoped would soon make
the ** University of Albany" a reality, wrote these
friendly words at the time of an official invitation to
speak before the New York State Agricultural Society :

YALE SCIENTIFIC SCHOOL 97

I hope you will, if possible, accept the invitation that you
may thus become known to our Society. I brought the sub-
ject today, for the first time, of your employment as State
Chemist, before the Board in an informal manner. It was
well received. ... In the mean time, if you can give us the
proposed address it will help us along very essentially.

In response to the desire of his friends, Mr. John-
son delivered an address before the New York State
Agricultural Society at Albany on February 13, 1856,
under the title, ''The Relations which exist between
Science and Agriculture," The main points which he
emphasized are here given in his own words :

It has been the success that has followed the application
of science to manufacturing arts which has aroused the hope
that she may contribute to the advancement of agriculture.
It is especially the science of chemistry that has now become
the signal means of improvement in a hundred branches of
industry, not less than the basis on which alone they can
securely rest. . . , Why has not agriculture shared in this
progress? I answer, it has shared therein, though to a less
striking and less profitable degree. The arts to which allu-
sion has been made mostly involve only dead or inorganic
matter, and their study, thus withdrawn from the dominion
of all but the chemical forces, is very easy compared with the
investigation of the problems of agriculture which are, of all
others, the most complex and difiBcult. . . .

But there are other reasons than the inherent difficulty of
the subject which have prevented the more rapid develop-
ment of agricultural science, reasons which lie in agriculture
itself as it is, — in agricultural practice. One of these is the
lamentable circumstance that our agriculture is so barren of
facts; I mean that kind of facts which only can form the
foundation of science, I mean complete facts. Complete facts
are the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth.

98 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

All others bear a false witness, false because partial, and
cannot be admitted to testify in the courts of philosophy;
or, if their deficiencies escape detection and their depositions
are received, a wrong verdict will be rendered.

The husbandman has been baffled by the number and intri-
cacy of the causes and conditions that influence his results;
his reason has been discouraged and stupefied by its inability
to harmonize the various, often conflicting and often hidden,
agencies of nature ; and the habit has been confirmed through
centuries, of adopting maxims and empirical rules as guides
in the cultivation of the soil. These maxims have been mostly
the result of experience and so far have been correct and
satisfactory, but they have been derived usually from a limited
experience, have been originally found true only in a narrow
district, and the precise circumstances that have made them
applicable have not been understood, so that when put into
practice elsewhere they have failed utterly; or, what is
worse, partially, yet not to such a degree as to lead to
their rejection. . . .

The first thing to be done is to multiply facts. This is
accomplished by observation and experiment. Ordinary
observation takes cognizance of what transpires in the usual
course of nature. Experiment is that refined instrument of
modern research which interferes with the ordinary course
of nature, and compels her to unusual manifestations. Obser-
vation is the eye that watches her voluntary movements and
the ear that hears her willing revelations. Experiment is a
wise cunning that cross-examines her and pries out her secret
counsels. —

The roughness of ordinary agricultural observation arises,
to a great degree, from a want of knowledge as to where lies
the gist of the observation, and amounts to an incapacity for
observing. What keenness of perception we attribute to the
Indian who traces his way through the forest with invariable
accuracy by little indications that to us would be undistin-
guishable. The secret is that he knows where to look. He

YALE SCIENTIFIC SCHOOL 99

must be trained to follow the trail of truth. It is so, too, with
experiment. There is no lack of agricultural experiments.
Unfortunately, however, it is mostly difificult, nay impossible
to find any good reason why they have been made, they are
so barren of useful results. The empiric experiments at a
venture without any probability to guide him. His hap-
hazard trials often reveal new facts, but he rarely contributes
largely to scientific progress, because he makes hap-hazard
experiments, because he does not reason. The philosopher
experiments with an object in view, and distinctly in view.
He does not indulge in small talk with nature, but puts ear-
nest questions to her. The course he follows in the investiga-
tion of a subject little known is this: He first collects and
collates all the facts known with regard to it. He then seeks
to construct a consistent explanation of these various facts.
It may be that he finds it impossible to do this. Then he
must verify the facts, perhaps some are false or he sees them
from an insufficient point of view, or he must collect more of
them by extending his observations, it may be by experi-
ment. He shortly is enabled to form a hypothesis, to frame
a theory which promises to account for the facts. Yet it is
not a hypothesis but truth he seeks, and now he begins to
test his theory. Every deduction which he can draw from
it must prove true, else the theory is false. He therefore
unites the conditions which his theory indicates will produce
a given prevised result. If the result follow, his theory is
confirmed, otherwise it must be rejected and a new one formed
and similarly proved. Here is where experiment assumes its
chief dignity and value. Here, it must be suggested by reason
or it cannot be expected to answer any good purpose. Here,
if rationally devised and skilfully executed, it must reveal
a truth, and though the truth be negative it is not the less
valuable, for every new negative result limits within narrower
bounds the space wherein positive truth is to be sought. . . .
How little is to be expected from mere farm experiments
conducted without especial aid from science, the past abun-

100 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

dantly shows. In this country there have been established
several experimental farms. Upon these farms trials have
been instituted to ascertain the relative values of various
manures, but the results have not and cannot have any gen-
eral or permanent worth. They have not been made with
more insight, nor have they been calculated to clear up more
doubts, than the single experiments carried out here and there
by private individuals. It is true they have been executed
with more care than is usual, but this has been so much more
labor lost. The spirit which has established these experi-
mental farms is worthy of the highest praise, but after they
have existed here for years we shall only reap the same fruits
that were gathered long ago in Europe, viz., a greater abun-
dance of conflicting fragmentary facts. I do not say that no
good can come of them. I only express my belief that the
results will be comparatively small, not at all commensurate
with the outlay.

The other recognized means of making advance in agricul-
ture is the chemical laboratory. It w^as in the laboratory that
the foundations of agricultural science were laid, and it has
therefore served a most useful purpose. There are still many
subjects of considerable importance which the laboratory is
competent to elucidate alone ; but the larger share of the
problems that are now needing solution require the laboratory
and farm to unite their resources.

There have been lately established in Germany, especially
in Saxony, a number of so-called Experiment Stations, or
experimental farms with laboratories in connection, for the
exclusive object of promoting scientific agriculture. It is but
a few years since the first of these was founded, now there
exist already four in that little kingdom; and three others
are in operation, or are being established, in other parts of
Germany, These are intended to make science practical, and
practice scientific; and no agency can be desired better
adapted for these important purposes. As mere practice is
deficient in all that belongs to the province of science to sug-

YALE SCIENTIFIC SCHOOL 101

gest, so science alone lacks that which practice is naturally
fitted to supply ; each is the complement of the other ; rational
agriculture is the result of their union. The great laws that
control vegetable and animal production being once estab-
lished by pure science, science in conjunction with practice
must apply those laws, must study their bearings and follow
out their details. In the field and the laboratory, then,
observation and experiment are to reveal to us the new facts
which shall be the materials for agricultural progress. . . .

The method I have roughly sketched must inevitably lead
to good results, whose number will only be limited by the zeal
and skill that we enlist in these great inquiries. Not merely
will they be of immediate influence upon our noble science
of agriculture — opening to us the mysteries of nature's work-
ings— but, as always happens, the increase of knowledge will
react on its diffusion. ... So it will be with agricultural
progress. The interest aroused by the very effort to discover
the new will vitalize the old. . . . The intellectual life of the
farmer will become more vigorous and healthful. He will
cease to be mechanical and prejudiced, and more nearly
attain to the true dignity of a wide seeing and deeply think-
ing man. These special studies carried out on an extensive
scale will have the effect to make agriculture appreciated as
a profession. Educated young men will be attached to it as
an intellectual pursuit. Finally, the influence of special agri-
cultural inquiries, prosecuted as I have mentioned, will be to
modify and reform our existing practice generally. The un-
profitable and even wasteful management, now not rare in
our state, will give place to a more judicious and rational
system, conducive at once to the prosperity and beauty of
our country. . . .

I have full faith not only that science may accomplish
much for agriculture in the way I have indicated, but that
she will be speedily put about the work. The tendencies of
our time prophesy this. The notion that there is anything
essentially antagonistic between science and practice is daily

102 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

meeting its refutation, both in the laboratory and in the field.
I may confidently ask, where better than in our own country
shall this idea find its realization? The scholars of Europe
often say to the American: Science can only flourish under
the patronage of Royalty. But they mistake — our country,
just arrived at manhood, has indeed been so absorbed in its
own growth that it could ill spare effort for great scientific
achievements, and yet within the last twenty years, even the
self-complacent philosophers of France and Germany have
been obliged to be amazed at the contributions to science we
have sent over to them from what they are pleased to call
our back woods. Our country now has the strength of the
oldest nations with all the freshness of youth. She is girding
herself up to contest among the nations for the prize of
science. What worthier triumph for our republic than to win
for her millions the boon of a rational agriculture ?

Two notes from a friend in Germany which clearly
refer to the ''University of Albany" are added here:

Miinchen, July 7th/56. — Liebig is again working on some-
thing to be published against Lawes, and wishes to know
whether you are willing to translate and get it published in
the U. S. (probably in an agl. paper). He has almost made
up his mind to go to the U. S. and set up a model farm and
ag. school, provided one of the states will furnish him with
the land and funds. I had a long talk with him on the
subject.

Berlin, N'ov. 23rd, 1856. — ... a very small note to ask
whether you got that book of Liebig 's which I sent by post
from Berlin about two months ago* In the letter which was
in the package, I told you of Liebig 's design and firm inten-
tion to emigrate to the United States, if he could get a grant
of land from the State of New York for the purpose of an
Agr. School; his reasons etc. I explained at length.

YALE SCIENTIFIC SCHOOL 103

Mr. Tucker, writing from Albany in November
1856, said:

— We should like to have you take up such subjects, gen-
erally, as will enlighten our farmers on the matters which
daily come before them ; but you need no suggestions on this
point. We should prefer to insert your articles as editorial,
except in cases where you particularly desire to have your
name attached, or where from their scientific character, it
would be necessary.

I am sorry to hear that there is even a possibility of a
failure in your proposed Scientific School. I supposed that
such arrangements were made as would secure its establish-
ment on a firm basis. I shall not fail to let you know if I
hear of anything to your advantage. Possibly our Ag. College
may go into operation — in a year or two. Our State Ag.
Society ought to have now funds enough to employ you per-
manently in a laboratory here, and I cannot but feel vexed
when I think how foolishly their funds have been wasted.
They are entirely out of funds and have got to live on credit
until the next State Fair. We want all the aid we can get
from you on the Country Oentleman.

Unfortunately the desires of the progressive mem-
bers of the New York State Agricultural Society failed
of realization. The leaders were too far in advance of
their time; wise and good as their plans were, they
were unable to carry them into effect. It would have
afforded Mr. Johnson the keenest pleasure to join
these friends of his youth in Albany in such a work
for scientific agricultural education as they hoped to
establish in the state of his birth, and it was not until
all possibility of this had quite passed away that he
began to look upon Connecticut as the place of his
life work.

CHAPTER IV

CONNECTICUT STATE AGRICULTURAL
SOCIETY

Almost as soon as he reached New Haven in the fall
of 1855, Mr. Johnson had been appealed to for help in
establishing on a substantial basis the Connecticut
Homestead, which was published at Hartford from
1855 to 1861. The editors of this paper, Wm. Clift,
T. S. Gold and H. A. Dyer, served without pay. In
1856, Mason C. Weld became publisher and was added
to the board of editors, afterwards becoming editor-
in-chief. The paper grew in favor; it was self-sup-
porting when, at the outbreak of the Civil "War, Colonel
Weld volunteered. About six months later, however,
its publication was discontinued. Mr. Weld had, on
the 22d of October, 1855, written to Mr. Johnson,
asking :

Can't you give us a lift — by us I mean the Homestead. I
have to do pretty much the whole work just now, while the
other editors have so much to do in the Fair line. Do you
see ''The Hf" We are getting a good circulation. If you
want your School cracked up I '11 do it for love.

Mr. Johnson's response was a series of articles.
These, published in the Homestead during 1856,
brought his methods and ideas before the members
of the Connecticut Agricultural Society, led to an
invitation to address them on his recent work in the

STATE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY 105

exposure of frauds in fertilizers, and resulted in his
appointment as chemist to the Society. Since his first
oflBcial ''Report as Chemist," made to the Connecticut
State Agricultural Society on January 12, 1858,
together \\4th similar work done by him in preceding
years without ofiBcial authority, summarized in his
address, ''Frauds in Commercial Manures," delivered
before the same society in January 1857, is often
referred to as the commencement of the Agricultural
Experiment Station movement in this country, it is
of interest to bring together here some facts concern-
ing Mr. Johnson's connection with the early growth
of that idea.

An article — "County Agricultural Institutes" —
published during his student days in New Haven, in
August 1851, sets forth in a general way his earliest
conception of ideas which later assumed a more definite
form. This larger vision of the usefulness of chem-
istry to agriculture came to him before his opportu-
nity to perform the clearly needed, but much narrower,
work of fertilizer analysis. It was thoroughly char-
acteristic of the man first to form and tenaciously hold
the broad idea, based upon a universal and permanent
need ; and then, realizing an opportunity for practical
work, to set about using his skill and knowledge in
routine analysis perfonned with all possible accuracy
in order that these simple analyses should be so abso-
lutely right that they might be an unassailable foun-
dation for the wider work to come after. In March
1853, he published, under the title "Superphosphate
of Lime," an account of the results of analyses which
he had made on two samples of artificial fertilizer
offered for sale. This paper is the prototype of the

106 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

Address of 1857 and the Report of 1858, and for that
reason is given in full as an appendix. The analytical
work described in it was probably the first of the kind
published in this country. Together with the intel-
ligent and authoritative discussion of the broader
aspects of his subject, it laid the foundation of the
personal reputation for accuracy, fearlessness and
integrity, by virtue of which every utterance of his
later years commanded a respectful hearing. Con-
cerning the two brands of fertilizers considered, this
investigation gave essentially the same information as
did the Reports made by Professor Johnson, a few
years later, to the Connecticut State Agricultural
Society covering a much larger number of fertilizers ;
and this work, done in his early student days in New
Haven, shows that liis methods were, to some extent at
least, his own, not merely an adaptation of European
models due to the influences of his later student life in
Germany.

After the publication of '' Superphosphate of
Lime," two years of study abroad intervened.
Almost immediately upon his return to New Haven
in 1855, Mr. Johnson resumed his work of analysis
and valuation of fertilizers for the information and
protection of farmers. This seemed to him the obvious
and rational beginning of a larger work which he
hoped he could thus prove to be so necessary that
farmers would come not only to accept, but to demand
it. It gave opportunity to demonstrate to the laity
one way in which science stands ready to help prac-
tice. The correctness of the view which led him to
take up this voluntary personal work is evidenced by
its growth into our present American system of fer-

STATE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY 107

tilizer control, which annually saves the country many
millions of dollars by safeguarding the interests of
both purchaser and manufacturer.

In 1856, the outlook for scientific agriculture in
Connecticut, a manufacturing state, was most dis-
couraging, but Mr. Johnson enthusiastically set about
his self-imposed duty, associating himself with the
small body of progressive men in the State Agricul-
tural Society, and giving much time to systematic edu-
cation of the farming community by means of lectures
and discussions before farmers' clubs, and by frequent
articles in agricultural journals. His lecture, *'0n the
Relations which Exist between Science and Agricul-
ture," delivered at Albany in February 1856, and
published in the Transactions of the New York State
Agricultural Society, was widely read and discussed.
It became a useful missionary leaflet, although it
failed of its direct purpose, the securing an endow-
ment for an agricultural experiment station in the
State of New York. An article in the Homestead of
May 29, 1856, ''On the Value of Certain High-Priced
Fertilizers," together vnih. the two which appeared
immediately after it, followed the same general lines as
the ** Superphosphate of Lime" of March 1853, while
embodying the results of study since that date. It was
in reference to these articles that he stated in June
1870, in a report as chemist to the Connecticut State
Board of Agriculture, ''When I first introduced the
valuation of manures into this country in 1856, follow-
ing the example set by Stoeckhardt* in Germany a

• Julius Adolph Stoeckhardt was professor of agricultural chemistry in
the Konigliche Sachsische Forst-Akademie at Tharandt near Dresden.
In 1849 he proposed a method of estimating the values of fertilizers,

108 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

few years previously, etc. — " Professor Johnson's
method of dealing with the questions he was present-
ing to the agricultural public was to explain scientific
processes in a thoroughly scientific way, using the
simplest English words, avoiding all technicalities, but
making sure that each principle was so clearly set forth
that it could easily be understood by any fairly intel-
ligent person, however unfamiliar with the subject.
Realizing the value of continued reiteration in secur-
ing the acceptance of a new idea, he confined himself
to insistent repetition of the main facts he was striv-
ing to impress on his audience of landowners and
farmers. These were: The necessity of employing
chemical analysis as the only basis upon which to
form an intelligent opinion about the suitable com-
position of a fertilizer; the reliability of accurate
analyses as a guide to the estimation of value; and
the importance to the community of a regular system
of analysis of all commercial fertilizers as a safeguard
against fraud, as well as against the self-deception of
ignorance — ideas which, novel at that time, are now
universally accepted and adopted, both by manufactur-
ers and consumers, as the basis of the trade in commer-
cial fertilizers. He gave careful explanation of all ana-
lytical processes, the reasons for them and the results
obtained ; then, following the method of Adolph Stoeck-
hardt, he ''valued" the fertilizer analyzed as an
assayer values an ore, by assigning a money value to
each essential ingredient, and from their proportion,
as found in the sample, deducing a market value for
the fertilizer.

which was soon adopted hj the chemists of the agricultural societies of
Great Britain,

STATE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY 109

The rather remarkable fact is to be recorded in this
connection, that, although private interests were thus
attacked, the sincerity of his motives and the accuracy
and honesty of Ms work were never seriously ques-
tioned. This series of articles in the Homestead
attracted much attention; the ''showing up" of the
fertilizers considered caused his analyses to be widely
copied and commented on, and gave rise to correspond-
ence on the subject. Mr. Johnson kept a copy of a
letter in which he defined his position in the matter —
this letter was written in answer to a vigorous remon-
strance and appeal from his results, addressed to him
by the agents for one of the brands of fertilizers
which he had analyzed and described in the Home-
stead:

New Haven, Ct., June 13, 1856.

Gentlemen, — I received today your letter and sending of
Guano. All the analyses I had intended to make are

already in progress, I cannot therefore examine the speci-
mens you have forwarded, especially as they are so similar
in appearance to those being examined and as it is not claimed
by the Company that they have more than one kind of Guano.
I would readily extend the number of analyses were it neces-
sary in order to promote the end I have in view. The con-
current testimony of my own results (not yet quite complete),
and those obtained by no less distinguished a chemist than
Dr. Anderson, chemist to the Highland and Ag. Soc. of Scot-
land, and by Prof. Campbell Morfit of Baltimore, is that the
analyses you publish in your circular were either made on
different specimens from the authentic ones I have been
examining, or that the analyses have been stated in an in-
accurate manner, or at least in a way calculated to deceive
persons not familiar with chemistry. You will perceive this
involves a mistake, some will think a fraud, either in the

110 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

Company or among the chemists who have analyzed it. It
needs very little chemistry to demonstrate that every one of
your published analyses is either inconsistent in its chemistry,
or incomplete and unsatisfactory for agricultural purposes.
The estimate of its value by Dr. Stewart is very, very wide
of the true mark. In a few weeks it will become my duty, in
pursuance of my declared purpose, to publish my own results
and criticise the contents of your pamphlet. It will appear
in the end that you have a capital source of phosphoric acid,
but not of soluble superphosphates of lime, and that you
charge too high a price for it. If you desire that specimens
sent (any or all of them) be analyzed, that will be done in
this Laboratory not by me, but by an assistant who has that
branch of the business in charge, and the results will receive
the endorsements of and comments of Prof. B. Silliman, Jr.,
or of Prof. John A. Porter, or both of them as you may wish.

I am not Professor but am 1st assistant in chemistry; my
duties in connection with the Yale Analytical Laboratory are
to superintend the courses of instruction in analytical and
practical chemistry. I am not at liberty therefore, you per-
ceive, to undertake analyses on my own private account for
fees, nor is it desirable that I should accept any favors from
either dealers or consumers which would invalidate my claims
to disinterestedness in the discussion that has just begun.

I have been assured by parties whose opinions I respect as

honest and unbiased, that the company owning the

Guano is a body of reliable and fair men and intends to do
the right thing. I regret, therefore, that on them will fall
the discredit which must attach to overrating this Guano,
although they are free from blame. But in my published
articles I cannot attempt to decide where the blame lies. I
have simply to publish facts and my own deductions. I can-
not say to you, being strangers, that my analyses are right
and those of the other chemists are wrong, and recommend
you to change your prices and claim less for the guano, for
it would be easy to ascribe such an act to the lowest motives.

STATE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY 111

Nor can I presume that my dictum will weigh in your opinions
against the testimony of so many chemists who have long been
considered reliable. My only plan, then, is to publish my
results uninfluenced by authorities, — to question no man's
motives, and in the conflict that must inevitably arise as to
the merits of manures and of analyses, involving of course
the reputation of dealers and chemists, I have to defend my-
self as I can with truth, or failing, be silenced.

As my analyses are not finished my opinions founded on
them and here expressed are only provisional, and you will
therefore please not to use them in any public manner. Yours
faithfully, S. W. Johnson.

Mr. Joseph Harris, editor of the Genesee Farmer,
sent these words of approbation on July 13, 1856:

I am glad you have undertaken the analyses of the various
artificial manures. It has long been wanted. I fear you may
get into trouble. I have had one or two letters already speak-
ing in no very flattering terms of the writer in the Home-
stead. Your method of estimating value is doubtless correct,
but I think you will find no manure in this country that,
according to this estimate, is worth the money charged for it.

Henry A. Dyer, a student in the **01d Lab." in
1851-52, was associated with his father in extensive
agricultural enterprises in Windham County, Con-
necticut. At the organization of the State Agricul-
tural Society he became its corresponding secretary;
he was also largely concerned in the establishment of
the Homestead in 1851. Late in November 1856, Mr.
Dyer wrote to Professor Johnson :

Mason C. Weld has started a project ... in reference to
the Annual Meeting of the State Agricultural Society. He
proposes to have the meeting more after the order of a delib-

112 LETTEE-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

erate scientific convention than a mere business meeting of
the Society . . . — papers to be read, and such discussion
upon them and subjects they may suggest to be duly chroni-
cled and put in print as portions of the Society's Trans-
actions for the year. Will you come up and help us? You
will give me a paper this year for the Transactions, and had
as well come up and read it. . . .

On Jaimary 7, 1857, at the annual meeting of the
Connecticut State Agricultural Society, at Hartford,
Professor Johnson spoke, in part, as follows, his sub-
ject being ''Frauds in Commercial Manures."

Almost within fifteen years, a new and extensive business
has sprung up in those countries whose industrial develop-
ment is most rapidly progressing; viz., the trade in concen-
trated and costly fertilizers. . . . Can we command the sup-
plies we need without fear of fraud ? In answer to this ques-
tion, I may reply: At present the farmer is entirely at the
mercy of the manufacturer or dealer. . . . But before going
further let us inquire : What is fraud ? We must, as farmers
and business men, answer this question with pure reference
to our own interests, without at all considering the motives
of those who defraud us. A fraud, then, is selling to the
farmer an adulterated or damaged fertilizer of established
name : or imposing upon him worthless or inferior fertilizers,
under names calculated to deceive and at exorbitant prices.
When, in short, the farmer does not get from the dealer the
value of his money, or the kind of materials he bargains for,
he is defrauded. The readers of the agricultural papers know
the history of the Chilian guano fraud, which Joseph Harris,
Esq., now editor of the Genesee Farmer, detected and traced
to its source with so much fearlessness and ability. The
results of my own numerous analyses of manures which have
been published in the Homestead, during 1856, show unde-
niably that there are yet among us those who think the farmer

STATE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY 113

fair game for their plucking ; and if any are disposed to excuse
the dealers generally from intention to defraud, the matter
becomes pretty plain when certain of them who have never
denied the accuracy of the analjrtical results — thus virtually
admitting their justness — covertly try to intimidate agricul-
tural editors from copying them. I will, however, tread no
nearer this dangerous ground. I will not attempt to specify
what are the current frauds which have their root in rank
dishonesty. It is vastly pleasanter to suppose that frauds
are mistakes rather than wilful attempts to cheat; but it is
of the utmost importance to know whether we are liable to
be intentionally as well as accidentally imposed upon, and
when we have satisfied ourselves on this point, we may drop
the subject of malicious fraud, as our business is not to
retaliate for the past, but to protect ourselves in the future.

Now, were the only frauds liable to be inflicted on us those
coming from evilly disposed persons, we should have a remedy
by finding out who are the honest dealers, and giving them
our exclusive patronage. But we are cheated by honest men !
We have no security in any man's reputation or conscience.
What the villain leaves, is stripped from us by ignorance or
blundering carelessness. There is such a looseness and
wretched want of thrift in some points of the trade in fertili-
zers, that we are hardly sure of the genuineness of any thing
except Peruvian guano, and after that we must henceforth
look more sharply than hitherto. Indeed so many false ideas
are afloat in the community, and there is such a lack of pre-
cise and grounded information relative to manures, that it
is really difficult to draw the line between ignorant and dis-
honest frauds, and great caution must be employed in charg-
ing any one with villainy or deceit. In case of such a fertili-
zer as superphosphate of lime it is even difficult to establish
a just standard of quality, for the name has had such license,
has been applied by manufacturers to such various mixtures,
that we never know what we are buying, except by analysis.
Of all the superphosphates I analyzed last year, not one came

114 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

up to a reasonable standard of quality. One was an absolute
misnomer, it contained no superphosphate of lime. Only two
were at all worthy to rank under the name, and I must here
say that one of these superphosphates withstood a severe
test. ... Of all the other high-priced manufactured manures
which have been twice analyzed, not one has maintained a
uniform composition. In most cases the later analyses have
demonstrated a serious falling off in the quality of the article.

So much for what has happened. Can we expect better or
worse treatment in the future? Doubtless the battle is but
just begun. The business is established, and new manufac-
tories will spring up like mushrooms. There is a class of
deceptions in all departments of trade which are not flagrant,
and have been overlooked and winked at until now they are
recognized as general and almost legitimate. It is your duty
and for your interest, farmers of Connecticut, to see that
there be not too many "tricks of the trade" introduced into
this new business. Abuses speedily get sanction, or get beyond
the reach and effect of remonstrance. If we do not master
them, they will master us. We must say to the dealers: "We
know what we want and you must fulfil your promises. "We
will not be humbugged either by your names or your prices.
If we cannot know what it is we buy, we will not buy at all.
We will thankfully purchase from a fair dealer and pay him
a fair price ; but woe to him that attempts to defraud us !

There is but one way by which we can effectually protect
ourselves and be sustained in using the above language. It
is the resources of the science of chemistry which in their
recent development have made possible the judicious manu-
facture and use of concentrated fertilizers. It is the same
useful science which alone can reveal the frauds which may
creep into their preparation. It is principally the recogni-
tion of this truth which has led the chief Agricultural
Societies of Great Britain and Germany to employ scientific
men to analyze manures for their members. . . . This plan
works well in Great Britain because the British farmers who

STATE AGRICULTUEAL SOCIETY 115

use artificial or costly manures are always able to pay for an
analysis, but in this country a different procedure may be
advantageously followed ; a procedure which, with far less
expenditure, will prove more efficacious. This plan is one
adapted to be carried into effect by your State Society, and is
as follows : Let a trustworthy chemist be employed to analyze
every year all the various manures that come into the Con-
necticut market. Let the analysis be made, not on samples
forwarded by the dealers, or manufactured for analysis, but
on specimens procured by farmers themselves, such as shall
fairly represent the article that is spread upon the fields.
These samples should be procured from different places, and
the same manure should be repeatedly examined in order to
test the uniformity and reliability of its composition. The
analysis should be repeated every year, so that all improve-
ments or deteriorations in manufacture be kept pace with.
The results should be published in the organ of the Society,
so that all its members be informed what are good fertilizers,
and what are trash. With this system in skilful operation,
an honest dealer would sell his commodities nowhere more
gladly than in Connecticut, for he would be sure of finding
for them here a full and enlightened appreciation, while the
rogues would send their wares to some other market ; the risks
of detection would be too great for them to encounter.

There remain a few points to be noticed. While the farmer
assumes an independent attitude toward the dealer, and shows
that he can defend himself from fraud and imposition, he
must not go too far and become arrogant or exacting. He
must accord to the manufacturer fair profits, and, living him-
self, let his neighbor live. Another point; — a most careful
distinction must be drawn between the commercial and the
manurial value of a fertilizer. The former is told by chemical
analysis, the latter by trial on the field. When, therefore,
chemical analysis has decided upon the commercial value of
a given fertilizer, it is not just that the manufacturer loses
his reputation and his business because his manures fail, or

116 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

appear to, on some farm or throughout some districts. The
manufacturer has for his duty to know how to make, and to
make, reliable fertilizers. It is the farmer's duty to know
how to select and how to apply them to his soil. If any dealer
profess to sell a manure that is useful on all soils, all crops
and in all climates, he professes too much ; and if any farmer
expects any manure to be similarly useful, he expects too
much. The very reasons that make these fertilizers some-
times and ^ in some places advantageous, prevent them from
being always and universally so.

Finally, it is well to try to discover what is the significance
of this new activity in matters relating to agriculture. It
means that the doctrines and practices of farmers are rapidly
undergoing change and improvement. It means that the
farmer has been inquiring and reflecting, and has determined
on a wider range of enterprise. It implies, too, that this
progress of opinion and action will go on indefinitely, widen-
ing and intensifying without limit, and will result in the most
exalted benefits if it be duly fostered and guided. It strikes
me that of all influences, none will ever be found more effica-
cious in bringing about the harmony and cooperation of
science and practice, than this same traffic in manures. It
will be efficacious because it will bring the parties closely
together and make them acquainted, and when they once get
to know each other fully, there is no fear that they will ever
indulge in mutual abuse, or part company again.

Just before the delivery of this address, Professor
Johnson was elected chemist to the Connecticut State
Agricultural Society. A few days later came these
pleasant words of appreciation from Mr. Tucker:

I congratulate you and the farmers of Connecticut on your
appointment as Chemist to the Conn. State Ag. Society. If
wise counsels prevail, something good and permanent in its
effects may be looked for from this small beginning. I have

STATE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY 117

very deep fears that our Ag. College will not accomplish the
mission to which it is devoted. ... I hope you in Connecticut
will accomplish something in the right direction.

Professor Johnson's contributions to the Country
Gentleman during 1857 were chiefly translations and
adaptations from foreign journals and, while signed,
were more or less editorial in character. They were
designed to give their readers the results of the best
European thought on agricultural matters. In his
preface to a translation of some of Boussingault's
researches, he makes the following plea for the train-
ing of research workers in agricultural science in this
country :

I have thought a perusal of these researches by Boussin-
gault, a man whose devotion of wealth, genius, and life to
the study of agricultural chemistry and physiology has greatly
enriched the science and the art of husbandry, would be of
interest for several reasons. In the first place, they illus-
trate the method by which we are to arrive at a knowledge of
the conditions of vegetable growth, and the influence of fer-
tilizers, or of other circumstances, on the development of
plants. Again they reveal some new truths in a broader and
fuller light, and in this respect form a valuable contribution
to agricultural science. Finally, they may serve to excite the
reader to a more extended study of the subject of vegetable
nutrition, a subject which lies at the foundation of agricul-
tural production.

Twenty years ago, nobody, neither farmer nor philosopher,
knew what was the function or value of ammonia, or of nitric
acid, or of the phosphates, as aids to vegetable production.
Now, we do know that these bodies are all indispensable to
the growth of plants, and we are able to comprehend, in some
good degree, the reasons of their value. It is to investigations
of the kind that have just been laid before the readers of the

118 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

Country Gentleman that we owe this advancement. It is
easy for any one who has begun to master agricultural science
in its present state of development, to see that what has been
accomplished is but the entrance to a vast and fruitful field
of research, wherein even now may be seen luxuriant har-
vests of truth nodding for the reapers. Alas, our country,
which it would seem unites every requisite for making a suc-
cessful husbandry of these golden stores of intellectual and
material wealth, has hardly gleaned the first ripe ear. Eng-
land, Germany and France monopolize these treasures.
Haven't we energy, genius and culture enough to equip a
few laborers for the noble enterprise of laying open to the
world these granaries of knowledge ? Haven 't we wealth that
is ready to be devoted to sustaining their slow and toilsome
efforts ? What is the matter, that with all our enterprise and
reputed keenness in foreseeing every event that promises
profit, we allow the slow Old World to keep out of sight ahead
of us on this track, that assuredly leads to the most honorable
glory and to the substantial reward of increased national
wealth? Is it a fact that we don't appreciate the possibility
and the advantages of improvement in the most vital parts
of agriculture? What sums are we not willing to expend
in inventing, testing and using machines for reaping our
grain — but who would be rich for possessing all we have
devoted to acquiring a certain knowledge of the means of
raising the standard of agricultural production to its highest
limit ?

Professor Johnson's first "Report" to the Connecti-
cut State Agricultural Society is dated January 12,
1858. In the letter transmitting it, he thus sums up
the work accomplished:

In some instances where it facilitates the study or appre-
ciation of the results, I have devoted some space to eluci-
dating the chemistry and general bearings of my subject;
... As the Connecticut State Agricultural Society has for

STATE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY 119

its object to develop not only the agricultural, but all the
industrial resources of our State, I have alluded to the suc-
cessful employment of peat in the manufacture of various
useful products employed in the arts, and to its uses as a
cheap and efficient fuel. I have deemed it due to the Society
as well as to myself, to describe the methods I have employed
in my analyses. This . . , will enable men of science to judge
of the reliability of the results I have laid before the Society.
I have at the conclusion of my report alluded to some other
important subjects of investigation which might be under-
taken with advantage. Before entering into the account of
my analyses of manures, I must state, what you can testify
to, that since my appointment a year ago as chemist to the
Society, it has been difficult to find in all our markets any
positive impositions upon the farmer in the way of fertilizers.
Accordingly the eclat of showing up glaring humbugs is not a
distinguishing feature of my labors during the last year. I
trust, however, that the comparative freedom of our State
from fraudulent manures is a sufficient recompense for the
fund which the Society appropriated to my investigations.
Finally, I have prefaced my Report with some general consid-
erations relative to the nature, uses and abuses of manures,
which I hope will be of service in guiding to their judicious
application.

The comment of Dr. Dyer, secretary of the Society,
on this report was :

The action of the Society at the last annual meeting, in
securing the services of a chemist, has proved efficient beyond
the expectations of the warmest friends of the measure. . . .
During the past year scarcely one very inferior or worthless
commercial manure could be found in Connecticut. Manu-
facturers or dealers who could not with safety warrant their
manures have sought other markets. . . . The work already
bestowed upon the peats alone could scarcely be had of any
professional chemist for the whole amount of our appropria-

120 LETTEE-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

tion to Mr. Johnson. We owe it to his interest in agricultural
development and to the unusual facilities which his connection
with the chemical and agricultural department of Yale College
furnishes him, that we have secured so much. The State Soci-
ety can not afford to lose the honor and reward of carrying out
these investigations in the future on a greatly extended scale.
With fraudulent or inferior manures we shall have little to
do henceforth if we continue to employ a chemist; and if the
State Society can not from its own fund continue and increase
the chemical grant, it is much to be desired that by private
subscription it should be done. Connecticut cannot afford to
give up this measure which has already in our own country
and abroad given her signal honor. . . .

This report of Professor Johnson made a pro-
found impression among those interested in agricul-
tural matters. While an amplification of earlier work,
adapting to American needs methods already in use
in England, it was original in many ways; and the
personal note it struck persistently, though with
modesty and wholly without self-consciousness, is
interesting to look back upon. This personal rela-
tion between the man who was trying to help and pro-
tect others through his knowledge and the hearers who
believed him, and trusted in his honesty and sincerity
quite as much as in his knowledge, never changed.
They were ready first to learn from him and then to
join with him in the work ; and to the end of their lives
he and his early friends in the Agricultural Society
labored together, under changing conditions, for the
public good.

In 1859, the delivery of a course of lectures in Wash-
ington (before the Smithsonian Institution) on *' Agri-
cultural Chemistry" gave Professor Johnson a wider

STATE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY 121

reputation as a lecturer. These lectures embodied the
results of his studies and teaching, and covered in a
general way the state of knowledge at that time of
agricultural chemistry. Personally a quiet, reserved
man, whose indifference to outside matters was often
mistaken for shyness, once on the platform he com-
pletely lost himself in his subject, and made it alive
and fascinating. Always carefully prepared to speak,
he seldom wrote out anything for publication until
after it had been delivered, so his verbal presenta-
tion had the freshness and charm of an apparently
impromptu wording. These lectures, revised and pub-
lished, served the author as groundwork for the more
important treatise, * * How Crops Grow, ' ' with which he
was already occupied, although it was not ready for
publication until nearly ten years later.

His ' ' Second Annual Report as Chemist to the Con-
necticut Agricultural Society" presents an account of
a thorough investigation of peat and muck — more
time-consuming than would seem possible save to one
familiar with research work. The fertilizer analyses
for the year proved in a gratifying manner the good
effects produced by the exposures of frauds, made
two years before, and bore out the contention that
publicity given to results of regularly made analyses
would keep up the standards of manufactured articles.
With the report he sent this letter to the secretary of
the society :

Dear Sir, — My second Annual Report is chiefly occupied
with the results of the Investigation of Peat and Muck, begim
at your instance in 1857. In order to make my analyses and
inquiries of the greatest practical benefit to our farmers, I
have prepared a systematic and brief, though pretty com-

122 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

plete, account of the nature and uses of Peat and Muck, in
so far as they concern Agriculture, the careful study of which,
I hope, will enable any one to employ the abundant contents
of our swamps with economy and advantage. I had intended
to give here an account of the other technical applications of
peat; but since it appears that they are as yet very unde-
veloped and not likely to be of much immediate importance
in this country, I have concluded to leave them unnoticed for
the present.

The Commercial Fertilizers that I have examined, with two
exceptions, have proved to be of good quality, while some of
them are new and possess much interest. Samuel W. Johnson.

New Haven, Ct., January 12, 1859.

In June, Professor Johnson again reiterated an
admonition to the farmers of the state to beware of
setting experience in opposition to scientific truth,
ending with an appeal for the support and extension
of the work of the Agricultural Society — and that it
might surely be read by those he wished to reach, lie
took advantage of a current controversy in the agri-
cultural press and called this article '^ American
Guano." An extract from it follows:

Ever since it has been possible to benefit agriculture by
applying the discoveries and principles of science to its opera-
tions, science has been confronted by the appeal to experience,
as to something utterly opposed to and more reliable than her
teachings.

Every farmer cherishes his experience because it is his own
and dearly bought. His time, his labors, his money and his
anxious thought have been largely swallowed up by all-
consuming experience; which, like his own live stock, eats
enormously more than it lies on. The farmer has a right to
cherish his experience. But whoever hints that experience

STATE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY 123

is better than or opposed to scientific investigation is a
sophist, "and the truth is not in him," because scientific
investigation is experience, is not opposed to, but harmonizes
with it, is not less, but rather greater than ordinary expe-
rience, since it expressly seeks to winnow away the error it
is well known so often accompanies truth ; while experience
is many times unsuspecting, blind or prejudiced.

If any one lets alone the results of scientific investigation,
to depend upon ordinary experience, he lets alone the oldest,
widest, fullest, most thoroughly criticised and truest expe-
rience wrought out in the lives of the world's most gifted and
most laborious men, to sustain himself upon the shallow, un-
sifted and conflicting experience of those less qualified to
observe and judge. Science is but another and the true name
for all that is good in the experience of all men; and bears
the same relation to ordinary experience that the clean grain
does to the crop in the field, where there is chaff, straw, stubble,
roots and weeds. Common experience is the native, rank, but
wild, growth of knowledge. Science is its trained and culti-
vated development. Common experience is swaying to and
fro with every wind of doctrine, unsettled, unreliable; here
asserting a thing, there denying it ; now believing, now skep-
tical. But scientific experience is that whereon one may most
surely rest, for it reveals the changeless and perfect laws, in
whose obedience Nature glorifies her Author.

Your correspondent derives his estimate of the value of
American guano from experience. That is precisely the
source whence mine is derived. He asserts that "the experi-
ments made by farmers with this guano prove it to be the
most valuable fertilizer ever brought into this country." I
am prepared to show the experience of agriculture has not
proved this statement true. I am confident that overwhelm-
ing evidence can be produced to the contrary, and am ready
to discuss that point with him or any one. Your correspond-
ent believes that the natural combination of the phosphates
and sulphates of lime, is a reason why the American guano

124 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

is "preferred by plants." Unfortunately for this "doctrine
of a theorist, ' ' the first cargoes with which the published
experiences have been made, and upon which the reputation
of this manure has been built up, appear from the analyses
of Torrey, Gale and myself, to have been nearly free from
sulphates — to have been in fact, nearly pure phosphate of
lime ! In all the numberless trials on record made with the
special object to learn the value of various fertilizers, there
has, as yet, been found no jot of evidence that any "natural
combination" of two fertilizers exceeds an artificial one in
its effects, and your correspondent must adduce some evi-
dence, some stubborn fact, to sustain his view; for neither
science nor experience is to be convinced by his assurance
that the roots of plants, if questioned, would prohahly tell
the farmer that they prefer American guano, because of the
"natural combination" of phosphate and sulphate of lime.
The fineness of the American guano would be certainly in its
favor, were it chiefly a phosphate of lime, but it is wrong to
assert that such fineness is any advantage in case of a sulphate
of lime, or that the roots of crops have to "struggle" to obtain
sustenance from the coarser particles of Nova Scotia plaster,
which, as sold for agricultural purposes, has, for the plant, a
high degree of solubility.

That American guano has in many cases equalled and
excelled Peruvian guano is very likely true for simple and
obvious reasons, independently of the testimony of farmers.
That plaster, common salt, leached ashes and other fertilizers,
have equalled and excelled Peruvian guano is also true. We
cannot, however, claim for the last named substances a supe-
riority over Peruvian guano, nor can "D. R. S." claim such
superiority for American guano. It is a principle recognized
by all thorough agriculturists that whatever a soil or crop
needs is the most valuable application to it; it may be phos-
phates, it may be sulphates; it may be salt, or water or sun-
shine. It is well known that the repeated and exclusive use
of Peruvian guano, of plaster, of salt, of lime or of any one

STATE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY 125

fertilizer that contains but two or three active ingredients,
exhausts and temporarily ruins many a soil. But if, where
ammonia compounds have nearly run their course and cease
to produce remunerative crops, phosphates be applied, it often
happens that a good yield is immediately secured; and when
phosphates begin to lose their efficacy, sulphates, yea, "legiti-
mate plaster" comes in like a panacea, and fertilizes so that
experience is astounded.

The ''intelligent farmer" ought to know whether it is sul-
phates, phosphates, drainage or tillage, that his crops need;
it is not hard now-a-days to learn these things, and knowing
it is sulphates, he can speedily decide whether Nova Scotia
or . Jarvis Island be the cheaper source ; if phosphates, the
analyses which tell the composition of what is in the market
will be his guide ; and henceforth, as heretofore, he will regard,
and it is to be hoped, support, his "scientific protector," the
State Agricultural Society.

In the summer of 1856, when Mr. Johnson was
appointed professor of analytical chemistry in the
Yale Scientific School, he found no funds available
for books or apparatus — the laboratory was an old
dwelling-house in much the condition in which the last
tenant left it, unsuited to scientific uses. In addition
to the administration of the analytical laboratory,
Professor Johnson taught theoretical chemistry, then
called ''chemical philosophy" — late in 1857, agricul-
tural chemistry was added to his professorship; from
then on he offered regular instruction in this branch
also. The Agricultural Society and the Yale Scien-
tific School were still most intimately connected, the
chemical and agricultural courses of the school being
highly approved by the more progressive landowners
of the state, and so Professors Porter and Johnson
took advantage of the organization of the Agricul-

126 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

tural Society to secure audiences for their plea for aid
to the Scientific School, which was at this time strug-
gling to maintain a precarious existence without endow-
ment. Two letters, the first written from the home of
Mr. Paris Dyer of the ''Raspberry Hill Nurseries" in
Windham County, Connecticut, and the second from
"Cream Hill," the inherited estate of Dr. S. W.
Gold at West Cornwall, Connecticut, give the itiner-
ary of two of these frequent journeys of missionary
endeavor :

Brooklyn, Conn., Sept. 22d, 1859.

Dear Father and Mother, — Day before yesterday I began
a tour of agricultural observation through this state. I at-
tended yesterday the place where a horse fair ought to have
been but for the bad weather, viz. Roekville, Tolland Co. 15
miles east from H't'fd. Today I attend what little the rainy
day allows of the Windham Co. Ag. Soc. I expect to make
a little speech if there collect people enough at the Soc 's ban-
quet. I am stopping with Mr. Dyer, Sec'y of the State Ag.
Soc. at his father 's house, where the big open fire makes shine
and dry weather in-doors, although outside all is drizzle and
drip. Next week I shall visit the Hartford and Fairfield
Co. Ag. Shows. The week after, the Tolland Co. show and
the New Milford (Litchfield Co.) town show. Now I shortly
shall go to the fair grounds, and see the mud and rain of
Windham Co., with an occasional animal and a produce or so.
With much love, Samuel.

West Cornwall, Litchfield Co., Conn., Nov. 2d/59.

Dear Father, — I write a hasty note this morning to acknowl-
edge the receipt of the $100. which came in due time. I am
on a month's tour among the farmers of Conn, and expect to
speak every evening of the week except Sat. and Sunday.
Professor J. A. Porter is with me and pays the shot. To-

STATE AGRICULTUKAL SOCIETY 127

morrow night I shall be in Goshen and Friday in Litchfield
town, tonight in Falls Village in Salisbury. Last night in
Cornwall and Monday eve. in Kent. I like and am liked. . . .
I am in the midst of talk about crops, etc., etc. A ruta-baga
of 21 lb. weight is in the room, and in a few minutes we must
be off for Falls Village. Goodbye, the wagon is at the door.
Your affectionate Son.

Here are some family letters of this period :

(S. W. J. TO A. W. J. AND E. J.)

Yale Analyt. Laboratory, Nov. 27th, 1855.

Dear Mother and Sister, — . . . Last night a copy of the
Cortland Co. Republican set me thinking that letter writing
time had come. I work hard, eat well and sleep sound, my
digestion is good and brain clear, my fingers are dirty and
sore and my hair long, my shirts are in good order and my
every day coat worn out, my wants are few and my means
fewer. I sometimes go to see the ladies but they never come
to see me. — But enough of this.

Last evening I dropped in at Mr. Bacon's an hour or so,
and had a most pleasant chat with Mrs. B. and her eldest
daughter. We are having any quantity of lectures here from
all the notabilities, Saxe, Holmes, Bayard Taylor, Thackeray,
R. W. Emerson, R. H. Dana and smaller fry innumerable
have lectured, and are to lecture, at the rate of 3-4 pr. week
and dog cheap. I bought a ticket for 12 lectures at $1.50,
and any single lecture is accessible for .25c.

Farewell now, let me hear how you come on. Be happy,
and get well. Affectionately, Samuel.

(A. A. J. TO S. W. J.)

Deer River, August Ist, 1856.

Dear Son, — Lucien returned from Minnesota one week ago
this evening. Giles C. Easton started last Monday morn to

128 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

go to Chatfield, Fillmore Co., Minnesota, where Jason has
established a land or broker office for buying and selling to
get gain, so that Jason can come home and harvest 30 or 40
acres spring wheat and other grain, settle up his affairs and
in the fall go back. He expects Sarah to go with him. How
Sarah will like his arrangements, I can't tell. I think not
very well, but I shall advise her to go. It seems unnecessary
to break up and leave their pleasant residence — fitted up in
good style — amidst a circle of respectable friends, in a good
society with excellent religious and educational privileges.
. . . "What privations will not men endure for the sake of
Earth's treasures! ... I received the Homestead you sent,
it is a good paper. Our love to you, Affectionately,

A. A. Johnson.

(A. A. J. TO S. W. J.)

March 13th, 1857.

Dear Son, — It has been a long time since we have heard
from you, and longer since you have written. I suppose your
time and mind are extensively occupied in your profession,
and would not make an unnecessary draw upon your time.
I think you should relax often enough to write and let us
know how you are, to relieve us of our anxiety about your
health. We somewhat fear you may overtax your energies
and cut short your usefulness and perhaps your life, by too
close application. "We hope you will pursue a judicious
course. Your mother and Elizabeth expect to come home
next month to see Sarah before she goes to Minnesota. She
had a letter from Jason today, dated 21st ultimo. He wants
her to get boxes made and everything packed ready (soon as
navigation opens) to be forwarded, as he can't stay long in
Lewis Co. He is as much engaged in getting riches as you
are in getting knowledge and imparting it to others.

I feel greatly obliged to Giles and you for Rev. Mr. Hunt-
ington's twenty-six Sermons for the people. I have read

STATE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY 129

nearly all of them, I trust to some profit. I had a small ice
house made last fall, and day before yesterday had it filled.
Our love to you, Affectionately, A. A. Johnson.

(S. W. J. TO A A. J.)

New Haven, Jan. 22/58.

Dear Father, — I have been working rather closely for a
month back, and am still very busy but trying to take it easier.
In business matters I flourish pretty tolerably. Last year
my income was:

From Laboratory

$ 615

" State Ag. Soc.

400

" Co. Genii

125

" Essay in N.Y.Ag. Soc 's

Transactions

30

$1160

But I have to work it like a beaver, and keeping up my
library, — so as to be able to work to advantage, — costs me
considerable, so that my surplus is only about $300. Doubt-
less within this year I shall be provided with a salary from
college of $1200 and then the extras will count up. So much
I have written to show how the bread and beef are furnished.
The State Ag. Soc. at their annual meeting two weeks ago
reelected me chemist at the same salary as last year, and Gen.
Pratt declared he was not my enemy but voted for me as did
everyone else. The Lab'ty flourishes, being as full as ever
before, we have 12 paying students. . . .

Professor Johnson, with those of his brothers and
sisters who lived near, was in attendance the next
July, when the citizens of Lowville unanimously
extended the hospitalities of the village to fonner
students and teachers who returned in large numbers

130 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

for the semi-centennial celebration of Lowville Acad-
emy. During this visit to his old home, he announced
his approaching marriage in a note to Professor
Brush :

Lowville, Lewis Co. July 27/58.

My dear George, — I have a piece of good news for you. I
am in fair prospect to become a married man. I am engaged.
. . . Now I intend to get recruited for a splendid year 's work,
and you must stir up the folks to get those funds raised for
I don't care to delay my usefulness as a married man. I only
wish I did not stand, as I seem to, in your way, — it is time
you too, were paid for your work. ... S. W. J.

On October 13, 1858, Samuel William Johnson mar-
ried, at her father's home, Elizabeth Ermn, daughter
of George Hunt and Sophronia (Spencer) Blinn, of
Essex, New York. A few weeks after he had brought
his wife to New Haven, Mr. Abner A. Johnson sent
this letter, an atfectionate reminder of the intense
interest he took in the welfare of all his children :

Deer River, 10th Deer., 1858.

Dear Son, — I have not forgotten you, nor do I believe you
have forgotten your father. You doubtless have much to
occupy your mind. It is right and proper that every one
should be well employed in doing good and being useful, in
bettering the condition of our fellow-beings in the concerns
of the present life, in making improvements. In many things
surely this is an age of improvements. The steamboat was a
wonderful achiefement in 1807. Soon followed the Erie and
Champlain Canals, completed in 1825. But who thought of
five hundred or more persons in ten or twenty coaches flying
on iron rails at the rate of 30 or 40 miles an hour without
horse or mule, but more than twenty years ago was that event

STATE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY 131

consummated. Then the electric telegraph soon followed, and
within a few months has connected two continents altho ' there
is a temporary derangement. Yet the cable will likely do its
office work in time. Lesser improvements, yet of great value ;
such as labor saving machines, of which threshing, mowing,
sowing and plowing are the most prominent. Improvements
in agriculture, manures and a long list of etcetera. It would
seem that the Lord is lavishing temporal blessings in great
abundance upon Christendom, and particularly upon that part
now protestant. * ' Has God so dealt with any other people ? ' '
A similar enquiry was made in regard to ancient Israel, —
and they forgot God, and where are they now, "a people
scattered and peeled." May they prove a warning to the
people of these United States.

It is my daily prayer that you and your beloved wife — and
all our children — may be a blessing to the circles they move
in. Your affectionate father, A. A. Johnson.

CHAPTER V

SHEFFIELD SCIENTIFIC SCHOOL: ^'HOW
CROPS GROW"

A course of agricultural lectures, arranged by Pro-
fessor John Addison Porter, was given in February,
1860, under the auspices of the Yale Scientific School.
Twenty-six gentlemen from different parts of the
country took part in the instruction given; fully five
hundred persons came to New Haven in attendance
upon the course, including a large number of young
and a still larger number of old farmers. The daily
lectures and discussions were made widely known
through the New York City, as well as the local,
papers, and were afterward collected and published in
book form. This Scientific Agricultural Convention
not merely gave impetus to the local effort for agricul-
tural education, but aroused throughout the country
a wider interest in this subject. The lectures of Pro-
fessor Johnson and Mr. Eaton were generally regarded
as the foundation of the course. Professor Johnson
lectured upon the chemistry of the plant, the proxi-
mate organic principles of the plant and the atmos-
pheric food of the plant.

The year 1860 was a crucial year in the affairs of
the Yale Scientific School. The Morrill Land Bill
had been vetoed by President Buchanan. Hope of an
endo"wment from this source was consequently de-
ferred, and the small prospect of State aid in the
immediate future gave deep anxiety to the school's

SHEFFIELD SCIENTIFIC SCHOOL 133

small but courageous faculty. Mr. Joseph E. Sheffield,
one of whose daughters was the wife of Professor
Porter, had bought the old Medical School Building,
had remodeled and added largely to it for the use
of the Scientific School; but although his gift put the
school in possession of a home, it was still ^vithout
funds until, in the October following this Agricultural
Convention in New Haven, Mr. Sheffield's renewed
generosity placed the Scientific School at last on a
permanent foundation.

Arrangement of the laboratories had been left
largely in the hands of Professor Johnson, who took
great pleasure in fitting them up. When finished,
with their old-fashioned furnaces and huge sand-baths
always warm, they were proudly believed to be, if not
the best in this country, at least as good as any on this
side of the Atlantic. Mrs. S. W. Johnson preserved
the original draft of the following letter. It was laid
away with the endorsement, ' * S. W. J. to Mr. Sheffield
on the endowment of his professorship in Yale Col-
lege. ' '

New Haven, Conn., Oct. 10th, 1860.
Mr. Sheffield ;—

Dear Sir, However greatly the country at large may be
indebted to your generous liberality in founding the Scientific
School on a sure basis, I feel that no individual has more
cause of gratitude than myself.

What gratification it has been to me to plan in part and
watch the growth of a Laboratory which, thanks to your
bounty, is superior to any yet erected for all serious purposes,
and not inferior to any in elegance — I can by no means
express.

134 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

It was another pleasure to be assured that you were ready
to equip the new Laboratory with a number of costly instru-
ments, and with such a collection of chemical preparations
as would enable it to vie in all respects with other similar
institutions in this country.

And now your crowning act of munificence places me in the
position to devote nearly my whole energies to the noble
science with which in boyhood I resolved to link my fortunes.

Be assured, Dear Sir, that my gratitude, though rather of
the silent order verbally, will constantly seek to express itself
in faithful labors for the success of the Institution which I
hope may shortly bear the name of its honored Patron.

With the highest regard.

Yours truly, Samuel W. Johnson.

The Connecticut State Agricultural Society held a
meeting in January 1861, but its activities soon
ceased and were not resumed until after the close of
the war. Arrangements were made for a second
course of agricultural lectures connected with the
Scientific School, to be given in February. Rapidly
increasing apprehension of war caused these also to
be abruptly abandoned, and, in response to the wish
of those who had expected to attend them, the regular
course on Scientific Agriculture, given in the school
by Professor Johnson, was opened to the public.
These lectures were designed to cover the whole
ground of the relations of science to agriculture.

In the summer of 1861, Professor Johnson under-
took a series of observations on the nutrition of plants,
the results of which were published in 1866. Reference
is made to this investigation in a letter written some-
what later by Dr. Pugh :

SHEFFIELD SCIENTIFIC SCHOOL 135

I am glad you are about to work at the N question, . . .
Your plan will give good results if you can carry it out. 24
pots will make much work, but it will enable you to open the
work and have it ready for the Washington Station. . . . But
my dear fellow, get at it. Starve along as best you can, and I
will point at you starving when the proper time comes to lay
the question of a Station before Uncle Sam.

In this same year was published Professor John-
son's paper, **0n the Soil Analyses of the Geological
Surveys of Kentucky and Arkansas," which pointed
out some dangers in injudicious application of imper-
fectly understood scientific principles to practical
problems. It was a timely and needed warning to
enthusiasts who were ignoring the rudimentary state
of scientific agriculture and were attempting the
impossible. This publication elicited the follomng
from Dr. Pugh:

Thank you for your paper on soil analysis, it is the right
thing in the right place by the right man. I have met some
of those Kentucky soil analysts, they did not seem to realize
what they were about, your article will show them.

In a letter of later date, Dr. Pugh commented sym-
pathetically on the scheme of agricultural instruction
adopted by the Sheffield Scientific School:

I have said enough, — except to express my approbation of
your proposed plan to cultivate a few students to a high
standard, rather than to popularize many subjects to many
people.

Professor Brewer,* at that time first assistant of
the Geological Survey of California, wrote from San

•William Henry Brewer grew up on his father's farm in New York
State, where he earlj imbibed a love of agricultural pursuits and acquired

136 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

Francisco, on December 20, 1861, asking for advice
and assistance in problems arising in Ms work there,
and also said:

I was so delighted to see your article on soil analyses, agri-
cultural survey humbugs, etc., that I began to think agricul-
tural departments of geological surveys were almost useless,
until I sobered down and the excitement of your article wore
off.

The early part of 1862 passed quietly by, affairs
progressing as usual in the Scientific School although
the war had paralyzed all outside activities. On Feb-
ruary 24, Professor Johnson wrote home:

I am in better health than I remember to have been for 10
years, and have enjoyed the winter weather very much. The
war seems to have a good effect on chemistry. The laboratory
has 19 students, more by two than we have ever had before.
Our funds are all in good condition except some in the Canal
R. R. of this State. Mr. Sheffield made good the deficiency
out of his own pocket to the amount of $500, one half came
to me. I was a little troubled for a while, fearing that I
should be short and behind in rent. I have no other income
now of consequence besides my salary, and that is just enough
to get along with. All analyses and odd jobs are stopped till
the war is over, I suppose. . . .

a taste for natural science. He first went to New Haven to study scien-
tific farming under Professor John Pitkin Norton, with the intention of
fitting himself for the life of a farmer. Later, on becoming Norton
Professor of Agriculture in the Sheffield Scientific School, he returned to
New Haven, where for more than forty years he freely served his univer-
sity, his city, his state and his country in many forms of public service.
His sympathetic and kindly interest in all that appertains to the progress
of humanity drew his associates very close to him, and few men in
academic life have enjoyed so wide a circle of influence and usefulness.

SHEFFIELD SCIENTIFIC SCHOOL 137

Reference has already been made to the Morrill
Land Bill and its veto by President Buchanan when
first passed in 1859. In 1862, this bill, entitled **An
Act donating Public Lands to the several States and
Territories which may provide Colleges for the bene-
fit of Agriculture and the Mechanic Ari;s," was again
introduced in compliance with many petitions, includ-
ing one from instructors of the SheflBeld Scientific
School. It passed both houses in June and was signed
by President Lincoln July 2, 1862. Connecticut
received under this bill warrants for 180,000 acres of
land, a condition of the gift being that the land should
be sold and the proceeds invested so that no part of
the principal should be expended — and another pro-
viso was that no part of the income should be paid out
for buildings. The power of designating the institu-
tion to receive this grant was left to the legislature
of each state. In Connecticut it was appropriated to
the Sheffield Scientific School, which thus became the
* * Connecticut College of Agriculture and the Mechanic
Arts" — the State Legislature in 1863 passing a bill
accepting the scrip and devoting the interest to the
school. In 1864 a contract was signed between the
State of Connecticut and Yale College, providing that
the income from funds coming to the State under the
Morrill bill from the National Land Grant should be
at once, and forever, directed to the enlargement and
improvement of the Sheffield Scientific School, with
especial reference to agriculture and the mechanic
arts. This school was thus the earliest institution
actually to use money derived from the National Land
Grant.

138 LETTER-FILES OP S. W. JOHNSON

Dr. George Bailey Loring of Salem, Massachusetts,
later United States Commissioner of Agriculture,
devoted himself to the promotion of scientific agricul-
ture and to the publication of scientific literature. In
September 1863, he asked Professor Johnson to
address the Massachusetts Board of Agriculture, say-
ing:

We are obliged to depend on voluntary contributions. I
have invited Mr. Harris of the Genesee Farmer, Mr. Tucker
of the Country Gentleman, Prof. Rogers of Boston, Prof.
Wyman of Cambridge, Mr. Sanford Howard and Mr. Goodale
of Me. to take part in the performances, I think the occasion
will be an interesting one, and I trust you will aid us with
your presence and counsel.

And so, in December 1863, Professor Johnson lec-
tured before the Massachusetts Board at Springfield,
renewing old friendships and forming new ones. His
long correspondence with Mr. S. A. Goodale, secre-
tary of the Maine Board of Agriculture, began soon
after this meeting. The high personal character and
professional ability of the men who responded to this
appeal of Dr. Loring 's are noteworthy. Nearly all
were warm personal friends as well as co-workers for
the cause of agricultural science. Professor Johnson
took advantage of his opportunity, and in addition to
his announced topic, addressed this gathering upon the
subject of Agricultural Education.

Collaboration between Professor Johnson and Mr.
Goodale of Maine began in 1865 and continued until
experiment stations were finally established in this
country. Mr. Goodale, an enthusiastic worker for the
advancement of scientific knowledge and the author of

SHEFFIELD SCIENTIFIC SCHOOL 139

numerous valuable treatises on scientific agriculture,
wrote, in June 1865:

Your opinion of the Maine Reports is highly gratifying,
inasmuch as I fancy you mean what you say, which could
not be said of all the flattering remarks which have been made.

He continued:

Your offer to be of service emboldens me to ask if you may
not sometime have students who would find good practice in
analyzing samples of sup. phos? — and so could have some
analysis done at small charge? Perhaps I mentioned before
that we have an association of a dozen or so of farmers who
have put up a bone mill and make some sup. phos., as yet for
their own use, but if the article serves well, propose to furnish
others with a reliable article. I have directed the manufacture
thus far, and have trials going on in the field of samples made
in various methods. ... If I had the requisite skill, facility
and time, would like to analyze these products and compare
results with those of the field, and so better judge which — on
the whole — is preferable ; and it would be something to know
the chemical composition of what I know to be honestly made
(if not skilfully), and of good materials.

Mr. Goodale wrote again on November 17, thanking
Professor Johnson for analyses received, and said:

I shall be delighted to send you specimens of products and
of materials after we get to work — if your assistants want
practice in analyzing. I don't know how it is with others, but
working pro l)ono publico butters my parsnips very lightly —
not quite to my taste.

Soon after his own return to this country, in 1855,
Professor Johnson suggested Dr. Pugh to the trustees
of the Pennsylvania State Agricultural Society as the

140 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

best man to place at the head of the new Pennsylvania
Agricultural College, and was an intermediary in
correspondence on this subject. Mr. Pugh wrote from
Gottingen in September and November, 1855:

I saw a student sometime ago as I was traveling in the
Hartz mountains, who said he had a friend who spent some
time at the Hohenheim School. He said that Prof. Wolff had
no reputation at all there. He had not more than 1/2 dozen
"zuhearers" and these all thought it was "schrecklich lang-
weilig;" he came into the lecture room with an armful of
books, and read a little from one and then another, etc. He,
this student, said that Prof. Wolff did not know anything
about practical farming ! ! ! — that he only had some impractical
theoretical views of his own that every farmer knew were of no
practical value etc, etc. Don't think that since hearing the
above I have burned my " Naturgesetzlicher Grundlagen des
Ackerbaus," I merely wanted to remind you that when such
men as Dr. Wolff are thus unsuccessful, when stupidity and
ignorance obstruct their progress, younger hands need not lose
confidence in themselves if they don't meet with universal
success in the same field. . . . The student whom I met in
the Hartz was one who had been a ' ' Nachmittage Practicant ' '
in Erdmann's Lab. the first winter I was in Leipsic and not
a very industrious one. . . . He was managing a farm in the
neighborhood — had not studied chemistry any since that
winter and yet thought he knew enough for a practical agri-
culturist, without any advice from such men as Prof. Wolff,
etc., etc. . . . With regard to the Penn. Ag. School, I would
be willing to accept the position of Principal in the School.
Indeed I would take it gladly at the end of 2 years, it would
enable me to make different arrangements before leaving
Europe than I otherwise could make. . . . You can read my
letter to Dr. Elwyn. I don't doubt but that if one got into
a place where the arrangements were not the best in the world
for the promotion of ag. science he might hend matters grad-

SHEFFIELD SCIENTIFIC SCHOOL 141

ually into a proper course. . . . Many thanks to you for your
kindness in noticing me to Dr. Elwyn. I hope I may yet live
to return you the favor in some way.

As the result of a proposition made to him by Mr.
J. B. Lawes of Rothamsted, England, in 1857, Dr.
Pugli undertook a new investigation of the question
at that time so vigorously debated in France between
Boussingault and Ville, as to the assimilability of free
nitrogen by plants. This work occupied two years,
and seemingly conclusive results were reached which
showed the assertions of Ville to be unfounded. Most
interesting is Dr. Pugh's description, in a letter to
Professor Johnson, of the Rothamsted Laboratory,
then the only place in the world where so costly an
investigation could have found such generous support.

Harpenden, Herts, Aug. 2nd, /57.

My dear Johnson, — The contemplation of a train of past
events carried my mind back, this morning, to the time that
I broke in upon your meditations for the first time at No. 1678
West Strasse. . . . With no part of my course am I better
pleased than with that upon this Anglo-Saxon sand heap.
But as you are a student of Liebig, it would hardly be safe
to say much in favor of this antipodal climate. You will see
at the head of my letter a picture of my present laboratory.
It was built at a cost of 1000£ by the farmers of England as
a testimonial to Mr. Lawes. They gave him his choice, a
Laboratory or its value of Plate. His choice speaks for the
man quite as much as do libelous statements about his motives,
and he now expends from 1000 to 1500£ a year in making
investigations that have no more bearing upon his super-
phosphate manure than they have upon a mountain in the
moon. There are perhaps people who, incapable of a generous

142 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

act themselves, might find a mercenary motive in his sustain-
ing a school at his own expense for 200 poor children in Lon-
don, or for his offering the cottagers of this village 600£ to
improve their cottages with so soon as they raised 1/2 that
sum, or for his building them a library to try and elevate the
condition of the laboring men. . . .

They have supplied me with about $500. worth of apparatus,
and we have been doing up the subject on a scale unprece-
dented. I have 12 glass shades 3 1/2 ft. high and 9 1/2 inches
in diameter, and under them, entirely isolated from the air,
we are growing plants and forcing NHg-free air into them
daily. Day before yesterday we had a visit from Prof.
Graham, Noad (author of analysis), Bolard (French) and
5 or 6 others. Our results indicate a confirmation of Bous-
singault. The evidence accumulates. ... I asked Bolard how
he accounted for Ville's plants growing as they did. He
answered "II a ajoute sans doute. " He said nobody in Paris
trusted them. Indeed I have not yet decided whether to treat
Ville as though he didn't exist (silent contempt) or to expose
him. Boussingault said in a letter the other day to Dr. Gilbert
"from my own experiments I am fully persuaded that plants
don 't assimilate N, yet, ' ' continued he, ' ' so great is my confi-
dence in the Rothamsted experiments that should you get
an appreciable increase of N, I shall modify my views. "...
Yours most truly, E. Pugh.

In the fall of 1859, urged by a patriotic sense of duty,
Evan Pugh accepted the presidency of the Pennsyl-
vania State Agricultural College and returned to
America, where he employed his talents and his
knowledge in establishing his college on a broad and
enduring basis; with such success that at the time of
his early death in 1864, he was recognized as one of
the most able of the men then engaged in the advocacy
of scientific agricultural education in this country.

SHEFFIELD SCIENTIFIC SCHOOL 143

Extracts from his letters to Professor Johnson during
this period give an outline of his work in Pennsylvania.

(E. P. TO S. W. J.)

[October 1859] ... On the 3rd of last August . . . one
and a half hours before starting [for America] I received a
telegraphic message informing me that the Penn. Ag. College
had sent me 800 dollars to purchase apparatus with. I then
left Liverpool for London, then to . . . Dresden (saw Stoeck-
hardt, who wished to be remembered to you, and also those
experiments with plants in water). Chemnitz (Dr. Wunder
sends his Griise) Leipsic (Grilse von Erdmann). . . . Ciren-
cester (saw Voelcker, he thinks your summary in Silliman's
Journal is good as also does Stoeckhardt — it certainly is, too).
And finally left for New York . . . after a few days came on
here and saw Judge Watts, the President of the Board of
trustees of Penn. Ag. College. ... I took tea yesterday even-
ing with Dr. Elwyn. He says you have just published some-
thing on the American Phosphates, I wish to see it — Can't
you send it? . . .

By the way, what about 0 = 8 or O = 16 ? The English
chemists are drifting into O = 16, and Kopp told me that he
had a great mind to come to it himself, as it was best, and he
was only prevented by the trouble involved in making the
experiment. I am studying about whether I had better not
commence here with O = 16.

I am not sure that our ambition, as indicated in our cata-
logue to which you refer, — to develop upon the soil of Penna.
the best Ag. College in the world for the ag. student of
America — would not require an apology to such a venerable
Institution as Yale with its history of half centuries looking
down upon us, and the concentrated energy of its ripened
vigour now devoted to the establishment of an ag. school. . . .
I have been too busy to get to Washington, but I hope I yet
may do so. . . . We are doing all in our power to move our

144 LETTEE-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

own legislature to $40,000 and until we get a little more done
at home, I fear I shall have to be busy here. . . .

[1860] "Why were you not at the Association? I wanted
to gossip with you about a plan for making a series of experi-
ments on ag. practice with manures and a project for getting
10 or 15000 dollars from Congress to do it with, etc. etc. . . .

"We here, with imperfect organization, over head and ears
in debt, with buildings half finished and only 100 students,
have consumed annually about $400 worth of apparatus and
reagents — no purely literary man could see the use of all
that expenditure, and hence it could not be made through
him. I found Dr. Voelcker at Cirencester, calling on a parson
president to approve of a change in the structure of a sand
bath!! — and Dr. Schultz in Berlin working an agl. class in
a garret because the great University had too many uses for
its money to give him more room ! ! ! — Hohenheim, and Pop-
pelsdorf and Tharandt owe most of their efficiency to their
standing alone. . . .

[1862] The "Washington folks are still talking about the
Agl. Dept. and writing to me about it. I laid out a plan for
them that will take $100,000 to start upon. I don't expect
they will get more done than talk this winter. The bill as
reported, is a humbug, but it may be made something of yet.
I shall say more about this again. The agl. dept. is doing noth-
ing and I fear it will fizzle out if something is not done. . . .
It is a scientific and not a practical man that is wanted there.

[1864] "We have had a long hard fight on the Land Grant
Fund — we have outflanked the enemy and spiked all his guns,
but the infernal guerrillas still hover around in the shape of
anonymous correspondents, etc. I still have some fears,
though they are very much allayed.

Professor F. H. Storer occupied in Massachusetts a
position analogous in many ways to that held in Con-
necticut by Professor Johnson. On the founding, in

SHEFFIELD SCIENTIFIC SCHOOL 145

1870, of the Bussey Institution of Harvard Univer-
sity— referred to at the time as **the nearest thing we
in Massachusetts have to the experiment station, and
capable if rightly handled of doing great good" — Pro-
fessor Storer became its dean, as well as professor of
agricultural chemistry in Harvard University. He
held many tastes and sympathies in common with Pro-
fessor Johnson. When the letter following was writ-
ten, he was engaged in the general practice of his
profession in Boston.

(S. W. J. TO F. H. S.)

New Haven, Conn., June 5th, 1860.

My dear Storer, — I am much obliged to you for your good
offices in the coal tar line. I should like specimens of pretty
good size of the various products viz., of "naptha, " "carbo-
line" and "dead-oil," two gallons or more, up to 5 gals, of
each. A chunk of pitch "as big as a piece of chalk" would
be very acceptable as a sample. As to napthaline, 1 leave the
quantity to your discretion as I have not the slightest idea
how large the yield is, or how much could be "run off" "just
as easily as not."

I would be glad to get a few ounces; but would not refuse
it pound-wise. The main point is not to abuse the generosity
of your friend. Of that you can judge. Don 't be afraid to
make the quantities smaller, dovm to any minimum, if you
think those I have mentioned are too steep !

Brush desires you to give his remembrances to Warren, —
also express to him my thanks for his kindness in rendering
us such service.

I neglected to invite you to call at 95 Wall and stay with
me whenever you are in New Haven. Do so by all means,
and I hope when I see you next I shall have some comfortable
amount of vim in me. Yours with thanks, S. W. Johnson.

146 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

Control of insect life injurious to vegetation is
now understood and practiced to a very considerable
extent, and much precise information has been col-
lected in regard to it. The state of knowledge of this
subject in 1863 is reflected in this letter from Professor
Storer :

My dear Johnson, — I wish you would take the trouble to
look at a note by Letellier in Comptes Rendus, 1837, IV, 255,
on the destruction of insects (without detriment to plants)
by means of an impure alkaline cyanide prepared by calcin-
ing animal matters with lime or potash; and tell me whether
the idea has amounted to anything in practice. Experiments
go to show that plants are not easily hurt by the cyanides,
do they not? If this be true it would seem as if the thing
might readily be carried out in connection with that system
of cooking old shoes, woolen rags, etc. in order to activate
their nitrogen, which was so much in vogue in Germany a
few years since.

That running riot of army-worms, etc., to say nothing of
our old Saxon friends the Maikafer, always aggravated me
consumedly, and it does seem weak that we can't circumvent
the scoundrels. N. B. The National Academy may like to
stick themselves in the mud by attempting to solve the above
question of circumvention? "We shall have some gay and
festive generalizations when the Museum of Comp. Zoology
comes foul of investigations of this sort. Yrs. F. H. S.

In the letter following, Professor Storer recorded
some of the current chemical talk of the day:

Boston, Jan. 10, 1864.

Dear Johnson, — Yours of the 24th ult. came to hand a day
or two since, "Frank S." being unknown to the contemned
fool at our P. O. You know well enough how the Prophet

SHEFFIELD SCIENTIFIC SCHOOL 147

suffers in the place of his nativity and will experience no sur-
prise. There is, however, just a shade of queemess in the
fact that when Brush [as] of old directs to me in N. Y. the
letter reaches my father's door quicker than the one which
you sent straight to Boston.

Egad old fellow, I should think your stomach would ache
with a dozen of letters, or less, from one chap sticking therein.
However! I'm not specially exigent and am ready enough
to forgive sins of omission at any time. Your name was
honorably mentioned as an undoubted authority in the matter
of scientific education, by Prof. Woodman at the Institute
of Technology the other night. Woodman made several sen-
sible remarks on that occasion.

There is little or nothing los hereabouts. Warren (and
Storer) are working like beavers — being in a position, if ever
men were, to realize the length of art and brevity of life.
With myself this is simple task work — my mind being well
nigh blank.

J. Wyman's experiments on spont. gen. have stirred up
the very liveliest kind of a fight in France — perhaps you have
followed it, as I have with a good deal of interest, in Le
Courrier des Sciences. I am very anxious that Wyman shall
publish his thoughts and views on this subject, — 'twill then
ascend from its present level quickly enough, I can assure
you. And this no matter whether the dogma itself (immacu-
late conception!) be right or wrong.

By the way, was your lecture on "fermentation" written
out? If so, pray lend me the loan of it. I have just been
reading a lecture upon this subject by my friend Lieben
(late of Vienna, now of Palermo, Naples or Pisa) and am
very curious to see how your several minds have worked.
For a German lecture, Lieben 's is excellent.

Eliot is in a pension way up outside of the Arch of
Triumph — over to the left as you go out towards the Bois.
In the same house boards a Prof, at one of the Lyc6es, who has
put E. through all the lower educational sprouts in famous

148 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

style. Eliot is in the highest possible spirits, and is studying
the French system of education con amore — root and branch.
He writes that chemical thoughts have no chance of getting
near him at present. 'Tis really jolly to read how new sensa-
tions are buffeting the hay from all quarters. It makes me
feel, though, almost as the Childe Harold did after he had
soared his swing.

E. is fortunate in arriving just as a new minister of instruc-
tion is ventilating all the dry bones; he says that the news-
papers and journals are filled with discussions concerning the
new measures. . . . Yours ever truly, Frank H. Storer.

Li September 1866, Professor Storer answered
various questions concerning materials and methods
of analysis :

I have been intending to inform my mind about those peat
firms for a long while, so that your spur touches effectively.
. . . Eliot will be equally glad with myself to see the light
of your countenance. We are gay and festive in spite of
undue friction.

Late in the year he wrote:

Accept my love ! I reproach myself with the thought that
I failed to write to you last spring the address of an artificer
in glass — so ein rechter, vornehmer reicher (not a mere
blower), who much desires chemical custom. . . . He is an
independent tinker who goeth about where he listeth, buying
molten glass in the pots of various works and fashioning his
goods then and there. I think him capable of making the
**H2S04 dryer" which was so near your heart in the days of
lang syne.

This ''H2SO4 dryer" was a piece of apparatus early
devised by Professor Johnson and fondly cherished in
imagination for many years. It assumed corporate
form about 1889, when in his "Report of Director"

SHEFFIELD SCIENTIFIC SCHOOL 149

of the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station,
Professor Johnson described the **Gas Desiccator"
which he then had recently had made by Greiner
in New York for use in the station laboratory.

The spirit of the new scientific education, so dis-
trusted by conservative classical scholars, had been
gradually winning a way in American college circles —
largely because of the personality and tolerant atti-
tude of some of its foremost advocates. In 1869, Har-
vard University took an almost unprecedented step
forward by choosing a layman and a chemist to be its
official head. Whether this action, which ranged the
University uncompromisingly on the side of edu-
cational progress, was regarded as a victory or as
an experiment depended upon the vision of the
beholder — men of science in America united in
acclaiming it the beginning of better days. The letter
of felicitation, written in the spirit of prophecy and
from a full heart, which Professor Johnson sent to
President-elect Eliot, has not been preserved. In
acknowledging it. President Eliot said:

A victory implies that some one is defeated. That is not
the true aspect of my election. It is simply an experiment,
made by the governing board of the University in a spirit
truly scientific, I think. The greater part of the crowning
will have to be reserved for the issue from the woods ten or
fifteen years hence. As you say, the first and best thing to
be done is to show that letters and science are not mortal
enemies but helpful friends. . . . "Vision and strength" —
that is well said — that is just exactly what is needed. Take
care of your stomach and reserve yourself for the good days
to come.

150 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

During the years beginning with 1864 and ending
with 1870, Professor Johnson wrote three books.
**Peat and its Uses as Fertilizer and Fuel" grew out
of work begun in the interests of the Connecticut
Agricultural Society. Published in 1866, this book
was, in 1910, referred to in the columns of a leading
agricultural journal as still true and useful, contain-
ing all that could today be said on the subject, the
writer regretting because of this fact that it is now
out of print.

Professor Johnson had devoted the best powers of
his mind to collecting and arranging the conflicting
evidence on record in the literature. Therefore he
could teach his subject with such certainty as the true
state of knowledge permitted. The results of his
studies were set forth in the two volumes, "How Crops
Grow" and ''How Crops Feed."

''How Crops Grow. A Treatise on the Chemical
Composition, Structure and Life of the Plant, for all
Students of Agriculture," which was published in
1868, has been perhaps more widely read and studied
than any other work on agricultural chemistry. It
gave a new basis for the teaching of agriculture as
well as a broader understanding of the principles and
the reasons of farm practice. In his preface the
author said:

Agricultural Chemistry has ceased to be the monopoly of
speculative minds and is well based on a foundation of hard
work in the study of facts and first principles. Vegetable
Physiology has likewise made remarkable advances, has dis-
encumbered itself of many useless accumulations and has
achieved much that is of direct bearing on the art of
cultivation.

SHEFFIELD SCIENTIFIC SCHOOL 151

"How Crops Feed. A Treatise on the Atmosphere
and the Soil as related to the Nutrition of Agricultural
Plants" was published in 1870. Professor Johnson's
object as stated by himself at the time was to "digest
the cumbrous mass of evidence in which the truths of
vegetable nutrition lie buried out of the reach of the
ordinary inquirer, and to set them forth in proper
order and in plain dress for their legitimate and sober
uses." He did not seek "to excite the imagination
with high-wrought pictures of overflowing fertility as
the immediate result of scientific discussion or experi-
ment," nor did he attempt "to make a show of revo-
lutionizing his subject by bold or striking specula-
tions." This was characteristic of the man. It was
his cool, judicial weighing of the evidence and pre-
sentation of results in a clear, dispassionate way that
gave these two books their value and commended them
to students of agriculture. They were the beginning
of a new and better agricultural literature, and yet
their author felt impelled to say:

It is a source of deep and continual regret to the writer
that his eflforts in the field of agriculture have been mostly
confined to editing and communicating the results of the labor
of others. He will not call it a misfortune that other duties
of life and of his professional position have fully employed
his energies, but the fact is his apology for being a middle-
man and not a producer of the priceless commodities of
science. He hopes yet that circumstances may put it in his
power to give his undivided attention to the experimental
solution of numerous problems which now perplex both the
philosopher and the farmer; and he would earnestly invite
young men reared in familiarity with the occupations of the
farm, who are conscious of the power of investigation, to enter

152 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

the fields of Agricultural Science, now white with a harvest
for which the reapers are all too few.

A few letters written to Professor Johnson in con-
nection with ''The Crops," as they were familiarly
called, are given a place here :

(J. B. L. TO S. W. J.)

Rothamsted, St. Albans,
February 3, 70.

Dear Sir, — On calling at the Agricultural Societies' Rooms
at Hannover Square this week, I received a copy of your book
"How Crops Grow." How long it has been there I do not
know, but I hasten to thank you for it, and I have so far gone
over its contents as to satisfy me that it is by far the best
summary of information in this subject which has yet been
published. . . . Believe me, Yours truly, J. B. Lawes.

(G. C. C. TO S. W. J.)

Ithaca, April 7th, 1870.

My dear Johnson, — I received a few days ago, a copy of
"How Crops Feed." It is of course good — excellent — It
explores the ground gone over so thoroughly, in fact, that, if
introduced as a text book, you haven't left much for a fellow
to lecture about. It came just in time for me to begin with
it next term, in my class in Agricultural Chemistry, and I
shall use it, even though it leaves me no opportunity to display
my own wisdom.

Your reference to my book in the Preface to "Fresenius" is
very kind, as well as the notice in the American Journal. . . .

How the ranks of Agricultural Chemists in this country
are enlarging. Goessmann at Amherst and Goodale in Maine
are valuable accessions. Yours sincerely, G. C. Caldwell.

SHEFFIELD SCIENTIFIC SCHOOL 153

(J.H.G. TO S.W.J.)

Harpenden, St. Albans,
Mar. 25, 1871.

Dear Sir ; On behalf of Mr. Lawes, to whom you were good
enough to send a copy of your very compendious work en-
titled "How Crops Feed," I have to beg that you will accept
his best thanks. The book has indeed proved to be of particu-
lar interest to Mr. Lawes, embodying as it does so much of the
results of investigations made in Germany and not otherwise
recorded in the English language.

I see that we have sent you some of our own publications
from time to time, but so far as our records go by no means
the whole of them. I send you by this post Tables of Contents
printed for binding up with our papers, and Mr. Lawes begs
me to say that if you will let us know which you do not pos-
sess, he will have pleasure in making your set complete so far
as he is able.

I am, dear sir, Yours sincerely, J. H. Gilbert.

( H. v. L. TO S. W. J.)

Sehr geehrter Herr Dr.

Ich bin Landwirth und Chemiker und babe mich seit den
letzten Jahren ausschliesslich mit Chemie beschaftigt. Mein
Vater gab mir Ihr Werk und wir stimmen darin iiberein dass
es ein sehr gutes Handbuch fiir Landwirthe ist, und sich auch
in Deutschland viele Freunde erwerben wiirde. Mein Vater
hat Herren Vieweg aufgefordert eine Uebersetzung machen
zu lassen, die dieser mir iibertragen hat. Ich wollte Sie nun
vorher bitten mir Ihre giitige Erlaubniss dazu zu ertheilen
und etwaige Wiinsche mich wissen zu lassen bevor ich an
die Uebersetzung gehe. Es wird nur sehr wenig fiir deutsche
Verhiiltnisse zu andern sein und diese hochstens in Auslas-
sungen bestehen die nur fiir Amerika Intresse haben, da es ja

154 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

fast ganz auf deutscher Grundlage fusst. Mein Vater lasst
Sie bestens griissen. In der Erwartung einer baldigen Ant-
wort bin ich mit

ausgezeichneter Hochachtung

Ihr ganz ergebenster

H. von Liebig.
Miinchen den 29 Nov. 1869.

(H.v.L. TO S.W.J.)

Sehr geehrter Herr Professor

Erst jetzt ist endlieh, der erste Theil gedriickt und ich
hoffe Sie haben dureh "Westermann einige Exemplare erhalten.
Ich hoffe, dass es denselben Anklang in Deutschland finden
wird wie bei Ihnen, den das Buch mit Recht verdient. Der
2ter Band ist auch bereits seit Wochen fertig aber Vieweg
hat den Druck noch nicht begonnen, was mir sehr unangenehm
ist. Ich habe grade in diesem Theile in manchen Kapiteki
grossere Zusatze machen miissen, indem ich grade als Prac-
tiker aus eigner Erfahrung, manches was mir von grosserem
Gewicht schien mehr zu betonen, und auch etwas naher noch
von anderer Seite zu beleuchten, ohne dess wegen Ihre
Ansichten zu bekampfen — wie Sie dies schon aus der
Behandlung des ersten Bandes in den Anmerkungen ersehen.
Es ware mir angenehm, wenn Sie sich dariiber gegen mich
aussprechen, ob Sie mit der Uebersetzung zufrieden sind, oder
was immer Sie fiir Wiinsche haben, damit ich mich danach
richten kann. Ich habe Ihnen gleichzeitig eine Arbeit iiber
Bodenanalysen beigelegt, die wie ich glaube von einiger
Bedeutung gerade fiir die Praxis sein diirften. Ihr Buch
ist nicht bios fiir Schiiler geschrieben sondern bietet auch
dem Agriculturchemiker von Fach eine Fiille vom Aufgaben
die sich ihm erschliessen, wenn er wie hier die Arbeiten
Andrer im Zusammenhang betrachtet. Ich selbst habe vieles

SHEFFIELD SCIENTIFIC SCHOOL 155

aus dem Buch gelemt. Wie man denn auch aus Mangel bei
angestellten Versuchen erst auf das bessere gelenkt wird. Ich
freue mich schon wieder etwas aus Ihrer Feder geflossenes
zu lesen und bewundere die Gabe wie Sie den Stoffe zu ordnen
und zu behandlen verstehen, was der hochste Aufgabe des
Lehrers ja ist.

Indem ich mich Ihnen bestens empfehle bin ich mit grosster
Verehrung und freundschaftlichster Hochachtung

Ihr ergebenster

H, von Liebig.
Miinchen den 6 Juni 1871.

Here are some family letters :

(S.W.J. TO A. A. J.)

New Haven, Conn., Sept. 3d, 1860.

Dear Father, — Pony and I arrived here safely on Friday.
... I find that the cost of keeping is $4.00 per week (Hay
$20 per ton), but I think I shall make money out of him in
health at that.

I found the house in good order, only the garden was buried
in grass and weeds, but I shall shortly make a scattering
among them.

The new Laboratory is progressing finely and a fine affair
it is going to be.

I doubt not that I shall be credited with a grateful spirit
towards those whose kindness has put Pony with his appur-
tenances in my possession, but I desire to place here on record
my acknowledgments to my excellent Parents for this gift
which I trust will prove a great blessing to me, and in this
my precious wife fully unites. May God richly reward you,
dear Father and Mother, for all the numberless acts of kind-
ness which you have never ceased to perform toward — Your
affectionate Son, Samuel.

156 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

(S. W. J. TO A. A. J. AND A. W. J.)

February 1861.

Dear Father and Mother, — Not infrequently I think and
say I must write home, but not being one of the sort that can
always do everything and having about as much to do as I
can well get along with, I don't write very often. ... I feel
very much as one might imagine that ancient military man,
Capt. Sisera did when the tender-hearted Jewess drove a
75-penny nail in his head.

I am now lecturing 5 days per week on Ag. Chemistry,
which keeps me pretty busy. . . .

Pony is a great Institution. I have ridden him pretty
steadily when the weather has admitted, and sometimes when
it didn't. I find his jolting, which I am now accustomed to,
is an excellent back-bone stiffener and brain-clarifier. The
animal himself is so full of notions, mostly good, that it is a
perpetual feast to take him out. I often ride with a friend,
a young clergyman who is good company and mounts a good
horse, and we can get over the ground quite rapidly when we
attempt it. . . . We have several macadamized or oyster-shell
roads that are always hard even in the wettest weather. The
long-expected endowment has come at last, and with it I have
half the day to myself, and thus have time for exercise. . . .
But I am at the end of the sheet, and have only room to
inquire about your health and send the love of

Lizzie and Samuel.

The autumn of 1862 brought a variety of conflicting
emotions into the large family circle, which up to this
time had remained unbroken. An Indian uprising in
Minnesota caused anxiety on behalf of the loved ones
there. In a letter of September 22, Mr. Abner A.
Johnson wrote:

The twins had a letter from Sarah yester-morn, giving some
account of the Indian war panic, the arrival of Jason from

SHEFFIELD SCIENTIFIC SCHOOL 157

Winnebago City in about 24 hours or less (100 miles or over),
and soon several others who at present stop with Sarah, mak-
ing quite a house full. Jason went to Preston and raised
over 100 men and some munitions of war, and went on to
protect the inhabitants from massacre. We anxiously wait
to hear from him. It is stated that there is a treaty being
made with them, or a part. These are troublous times. We
will hope for the best. Until within two years everything went
smoothly on, as a nation we knew little of troubles like the
present. The rebels seem hard to conquer, or our military
leaders are greatly deficient in skill or loyalty.

The times were indeed troublous, yet father and
son rejoiced together over the birth of a child.

(S. W. J. TO A. A. J.)

New Haven, Conn. Oct. 4—1862.

Dear Father, — Yesterday our Elizabeth Annah, daughter
of Samuel and Elizabeth, arrived safely at the age of one
fortnight. She is named by her mother after my wife and
mother. Last night as she was weighed, we thought it rather
strange that her Uncle Abner and Aunt Annah had not signi-
fied by any word that has reached us, their approval of this
newest grandchild. It being not impossible in these troublous
times that the mail miscarried, I hereby make avowal of the
advent of the little angel and call upon all concerned to
rejoice. It is very true she is born into a pitiful world of
discomfort, and inherits more weakness of body and soul
than it is comforting to think upon. Yet this birth may not
unlikely prove to her the blessed event it has always been
to those who make it the point of setting out in a life that
harmonizes as well as in its infirmity it may, with the great
life of God.

Libby has written to Mother about staying here with us
through the winter, or until Jan. I much desire her to remain

158 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

for the sake of Lizzie, who I doubt not owes very much of
her health and comfort to her society, and not less for her
own benefit. If, however, Mother needs her or only strongly
desires her presence at home, I am sure both Libby and Lizzie,
and myself not less, hold our Mother's claims in every way
paramount. . . .

I am nearly resolved to dispose of Pony, either entirely or
for the winter, — $200 a year is more than I can well spend
on him, since, in the present depression of business, I have
few odd jobs or little to rely upon besides my salary. What
had I best do? . . .

Behold how long a letter I have written with my own hand !
Affectionately, — with love to all, Samuel W. Johnson.

(A. A. J. TO S.W.J.)

Deer River, Oct. 7th, 1862.

Dear Son, — Yours of 4th inst. I just received while at the
P. 0. to hear the war news (which by the bye, was not much).
We congratulate you and Lizzie on the birth of your little
angel daughter, and rejoice none the less because we have not
written to say we rejoice. May a kind Providence bless the
little stranger and parents too, and enable you to "train her
up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord" that she may
be an angel indeed, whether her stay on earth be longer or
shorter. It is our desire and prayer to our common Father
daily that our children, and theirs, may wisely use the time
given them in laying up a treasure in Heaven and so fulfill
the great end for which they have a being here. While you
rejoice in the gift you doubtless will feel the responsibility
resting upon you in consequence of the gift, as well as all the
other gifts your kind Benefactor has bestowed upon you. . . .

Libbie can do as she likes about staying. Lizzie wrote to
your mother for her assent to name her little granddaughter
after her and her own mother. She assents cheerfully to her
wishes. As to Pony, you can better judge than I, as yet the

SHEFFIELD SCIENTIFIC SCHOOL 159

war taxes have not been hard. How heavily they will come
upon US, we do not yet know — but they will be heavy there is
no doubt. In addition to all other taxes, this town voted at a
special town meeting to borrow $4000 for bounties for volun-
teers, which amt. has been loaned and the tax must be levied.
We have heard nothing very recently from Jason or Sarah.
The Indian troubles are rather subsided, as the papers say.
Love to all. Your affectionate father, A. A. Johnson.

In October, an epidemic of typhoid fever had started
in the village of Lowville. At the beginning its nature
was not recognized, and Esther Johnson, wife of Giles
C. Easton, was one of the early victims. Her death,
the first among eight brothers and sisters, was pecu-
liarly sad, as it left two little children motherless.

(S.W.J. TO A. A. J.)

Nov. 22—1862.

Dear Father, — I expected to see Giles and did not write.
Why he has not been here, and why we have not heard a word
from home, is a thing we don't understand. . . .

How is Giles, — and the pestilence at Lowville? How are
the little motherless Hatty and Abner? Poor children, how
my heart ached for them. Above all, how is Mother since the
Winter began?

We all send love —

(A. A. J. TO S. W. J. AND E. E. J.)

Deer River, Deer. 25th, 1862.

Dear Samuel and Lizzie, — I wish you and your little daugh-
ter a Merry Christmas. . . . Esther's children are with us,
and tho' it adds much to the care and labor of your mother
and sisters it is done cheerfully. I trust they will receive
their reward.

160 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

I am glad that all our children are so good. God bless them.
May they all continue to be respectable and useful. I wish
I were able to place them all in circumstances of competence
as to this world's goods, believing most of them have chosen
the good part never to be taken from them. . . . Our best
love and good will to you three. Your Mother's health is
nearly as good as it has been for years, so far as I can see.
Affectionately, A. A. Johnson.

Early in 1864 came another family bereavement, the
death of Mrs. Abner A. Johnson. In January 1866,
Professor Johnson wrote to the home at Deer River,
where his three youngest sisters were caring for their
father in his old age :

Dear Lizzie, . . . You may or may not have heard of the
National Academy of Sciences, composed of 50 scientific men
who are or ought to be foremost in their respective depart-
ments. Well, that body has just held a meeting at Wash-
ington, and has elected me a member, I presume you (I
write to Father and all the family as well as you, and mean
them by "you'') will think full as much of this honor as I
do, which is not a great deal, still you know that ' ' straws show
which way the wind blows. ' '

I have subscribed for a new magazine (English) called the
Argosy. I shall send the numbers to you — the three sisters — •
to read and keep. It begins very well, and you will find it
full of good reading if it continues as good as it has com-
menced. . . . Affectionately — if rarely on paper — ^Your
brother, Samuel W. Johnson.

In connection with his election at the early age of
thirty-six to membership in the National Academy, it
may be noted that Professor Johnson possessed one
of the attributes of a great teacher, the discriminating
ability to discern and to set forth clearly the basic

SHEFFIELD SCIENTIFIC SCHOOL 161

truths of science. He was, in his own day, a master of
the theory of his profession in so far as it had then
been developed, and his skill in rendering useful to
practice the scientific and theoretical work of others,
together with his ability personally to contribute to
the sum of such work, was the foundation of his use-
fulness in the early days of agricultural science in this
country.

Although Mr. Abner A. Johnson's strength was
rapidly declining, his house remained a center of hos-
pitality. Mrs. S. W. Johnson, writing to her husband
from Deer River in September of this year, told of the
entertainment of old friends. She added :

Father put on his best coat and met them at the dinner
table — most hospitably he received them, nice old gentleman
that he is! I have always admired your unfailing kindness
and courtesy to our visitors, and I see now you always had a
good example.

Few more letters were written either to or from the
Deer River home, which was broken up the following
April, immediately after the death of its builder.

CHAPTER VI

CONNECTICUT STATE BOARD OF AGRICUL-
TURE

The first faculty of the Sheffield Scientific School
was regarded in academic circles as a band of radical
enthusiasts; the action of the governing board of the
school in permitting its members to give a part of
their time to public service was an innovation not ap-
proved by conservatives who held that extra-curricu-
lum activity was rather unprofessional; but in spite
of the disapprobation of those who felt that a college
professor should confine himself strictly to pedagogi-
cal duties, Professor Johnson and his colleagues had
always carried on along with their classroom work a
larger work in the education of the public. This they
did on the lecture platform, in the public press, and by
means of personal influence exerted through a wide
acquaintance with many kinds of men; and the gov-
erning board of the school, sanctioning their activity,
enabled them thus to set forth "a forceful illustration
of the power which a scientific man can wield for the
good of the community."

The Connecticut State Board of Agriculture, formed
in August 1866, continued and extended the work of
the old Agricultural Society; the Sheffield Scientific
School, in its annual report for 1866-67, which says
' ' The officers of the school refer with pleasure to their
relations with the State Board of Agriculture, ' ' main-
tained the cordial attitude of the old ''School of

STATE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE 163

Applied Chemistry" towards scientific agriculture.
Professor Johnson took an active part in the organi-
zation of the Board, and at its first annual meeting,
held in Sheffield Hall, New Haven, he delivered two lec-
tures; the one, ** Recent Investigations concerning the
Source and Supply of Nitrogen to Crops," the other,
**The Principles which may Guide the Farmer in the
Selection and Use of Fertilizers." On January 13,
1869, he again lectured before the Board of Agricul-
ture, talking on the ** Nutritive Value of Grasses and
Green Fodder, as indicated by Chemical Analysis and
Feeding Trials."

His "Report on Commercial Fertilizers," made to
the Connecticut Board of Agriculture on April 10,
1869, marked the formal resumption, under official
sanction of this Board, of work done in connection
with the Agricultural Society during 1856 and succeed-
ing years. In it were incorporated the results of six-
teen analyses of fertilizers, the analytical details of
which were performed by Mr. W. O. Atwater, who at
that time was studying under Professor Johnson's
direction in the Sheffield Scientific School and was also
acting as Professor Johnson's private assistant; later
he became a prominent worker in similar lines of
research. This report attracted attention outside of
Connecticut. In November the Commissioner of Agri-
culture at Washington said in a letter to Professor
Johnson :

A floating paragraph states that you have been engaged
in analysing numerous samples of commercial fertilizers. If
such be the case, I would be glad to have you furnish in some
detail the result of the investigation for the use of this
Department.

164 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

Professor George H. Cook of Rutgers College wrote
from the office of the State Geological Survey, on Sep-
tember 18, 1869, commenting with approval on the
report, and saying:

Your straightforward estimate of the value of different fer-
tilizers is producing a sensation among both manufacturers
and consumers, — and will be of great service to Agriculture.

He closed his letter with this sentence:

The circulation of such reports as that of yours on fertilizers
will be of great use, and I hope you will be allowed to con-
tinue making full and fearless reports on the worthless
manures which are so common in market.

Professor Johnson had altered and improved the
text of "How Crops Feed" almost up to the moment
of stereotyping the pages; when its publication
relieved this strain, he found that nerve exhaustion
complicated the malaria with which he had suffered
for several years. A camping trip in the Adirondacks
improved his apparent condition, and he returned in
the fall of 1870 to his college duties, lightened to some
extent, as he was now relieved from daily superin-
tendence of the analytical laboratory. He wrote on
September 20:

The Laboratory is getting on nicely with Allen at the head.
I have five exercises weekly (2 ag. chem. and 2 analyt. chem.)
coming at 10 o'clock each weekday except Friday. I am now
ready, all except health, to renew the text-book work. 0 ! I
would that it were off my hands !

During the winter he refrained from all save class-
room work, but notwithstanding careful living and the

STATE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE 165

relinquishment of outside activities his health was not
fully restored.

In 1872, the time seeming to have arrived when
organized effort for the establishment of experiment
stations in this country might meet with success, Pro-
fessor Johnson, in addition to giving his regular
courses of lectures and recitations in the SheflSeld
Scientific School, devoted much strength to the sys-
tematic agitation of that matter, so near to his heart.
A national agricultural convention was held in Feb-
ruary at the Agricultural Bureau in Washington, on
call from the Commissioner of Agriculture ; among the
hundred or more delegates were Professor Gilman and
Professor Johnson, representing the Sheffield Scien-
tific School. Professor Johnson wrote home from
Washington on February 15, 1872:

Came in yesterday with a jolly company. Pres'd't Clark
of Amherst, Mr, Goodale, Mr. Gold, Gov. Hyde, etc. etc., —
arrived here safely at 5 P.M. Found the hotels crammed and
jammed, but by heavy play on dignity got a good 5 story room
and now at 8 A.M. shall br'kfast after writing you a Une or
two more, and then to Uncle Frederick Watts. Gen'l Eaton
invited me to dinner this evening. Shall go of course.

This agricultural convention was effective in placing
the experiment station movement before the people
as a question of national policy, and the publicity given
to its discussions aroused a wider interest in the mat-
ter. From far and near came letters asking Professor
Johnson for advice as to methods to be pursued to gain
the best results — how should legislation be framed to
secure an institution suited to the needs of our people!
Late in the year he was appealed to by President Clark

166 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

of Amherst for information as to the ''usefulness as
shown by any specific valuable results of the experi-
ment stations of Europe," and in January 1873,
President Clark wrote :

Please accept thanks for the valuable information this day
received. It is just what I desired. Let us rejoice together
over the prospect of the passage of Mr. Morrill's bill. You
will of course attend the Convention at Washington which
we have called Feb. 27th, one week later than was intended
when we adjourned last year.

In September 1872, Mr. A. B. Crandell, agricultural
editor of the New York Tribune, wrote, stating that
the large agricultural correspondence of that paper
contained frequent queries of a chemical nature. He
asked permission to refer such letters to Professor
Johnson for answer, the replies to be published in the
weekly and semi-weekly issues of the Tribune over
signature, and in closing, said:

It is not probable that there will be enough of them to
render the duty at all burdensome.

In November of the same year Mr. Crandell asked —
in addition to replies to three letters enclosed — for a
half -column article regarding the eifects of lime on hill
pastures, and went on to say:

We shall also — if the terms named are satisfactory — be
glad to have an occasional paper on any subject you may
think worth while to discuss.

From the first, the essays and discussions that
appeared over Professor Johnson's name in the Tri-
bune attracted attention; in a year's time the volume
of his correspondence upon chemical points had so

STATE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE 167

increased as to falsify Mr. Crandell's prediction.
Still, appreciating that this newspaper correspond-
ence had developed into a unique opportunity for
missionary activity and was of educational importance,
reaching as it did a national audience through the
Tribune columns, Professor Johnson kept on mth it,
loth at heart to relinquish writing although he realized
that long-continued strain was telling on him. While
his mental industry was incessant, he was constitution-
ally incapable of turning off work hastily. Not only
must his knowledge of the point involved be exhaustive
and accurate, but each paragraph, even if of minor
importance, was rewritten many times before it was
parted with ; when finally sent off it was as clear as it
could well be made, representing the best he could do
with the subject, and bore little trace of the concen-
trated effort that left its mark on the author.

Professor Johnson had set forth in his report on
commercial fertilizers, made to the Connecticut Board
of Agriculture in June 1870, the then existing condi-
tions of the applications of science to agriculture. His
opening sentence referred to his o\vn first exposition
in this country of principles, worked out at the German
Versuch-Stationen, which he hoped would before long
be brought into practical use in American experiment
stations.* He then discussed the whole subject of the
analysis and valuation of fertilizers, referring for
methods and standards to his ** Reports" made in
1857, and in 1858, to the Agricultural Society, and
describing the current practices of the German experi-
ment stations, of the English and Scotch agricultural

• See page 107.

168 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

societies, and of the Rothamsted Laboratory, which
was then the private philanthropy of Mr. (afterward
Sir) John Bennett Lawes, the earliest English manu-
facturer of artificial fertilizers, senior member of
the celebrated scientific partnership of *' Lawes and
Gilbert."

Mr. Lawes at an early age instituted on his Rotham-
sted estate a series of field experiments upon soil
exhaustion and rotation in crops. In the following
letter, after commenting upon the points which particu-
larly interested him in Professor Johnson's lectures
upon the same subjects before the Board of Agricul-
ture in 1872, he expresses his recently proclaimed
intention to provide for the permanent maintenance of
his Rothamsted institution.

(J. B. L. TO S. W. J.)

Kothamsted, St. Albans, Nov. 7, '72.

Dear Sir, — I have read with much interest and pleasure
your paper on soil exhaustion and rotation of crops, and I
beg your acceptance of a summary of our clover experiments,
by which you will see that we have altogether failed to grow
clover by means of manures placed at different depths through
the soil. I think we have almost exhausted all ordinary
modes of field experiments, and I am disposed to think that
the solution of this problem will not be effected until more
refined investigations are commenced. We are obtaining
some very interesting results on a piece of permanent pasture,
which at the commencement of the experiments consisted of
a fair proportion of graminaceous and leguminous herbage.
For 16 years a portion has been manured with mineral manure
alone without organic or nitrogenous substances. Another
portion has the same minerals with 100 lb. pr. acre of nitrogen
either as nitrate of soda or salts of ammonia. Where the

STATE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE 169

nitrogen is applied the herbage becomes almost entirely
graminaceous, the legurainos«e being killed (not choked) ;
where the minerals are used the leguminosje have very much
increased. In some instances, as in the case where 275 lb. of
nitrate of soda is applied every year, the produce of hay
annually is about the same.

The mean annual produce of hay for 16 years is:

cwt.
Minerals only 35 1/2

Nitrate of soda only 36 1/2

The nitrogen in the produce is higher where no nitrogen
has been supplied for 16 years than it is where 100 lb. has
been supplied annually. An analysis of the soil of these plots
would be very interesting if our processes are sufficiently
accurate to be trusted. You may possibly have heard that I
propose to place my Laboratory, and fields, in trust at my
death for the benefit of science, and to endow it with a fund.
Yours truly, J. B. Lawes.

Interest in Professor Johnson's paper on soil
exhaustion and rotation of crops — a subject then less
familiar to the agriculturist at large than it is today —
was shared by the United States Department of Agri-
culture. In October 1872, the Honorable Frederick
Watts, Commissioner, wrote:

I have read with much interest and profit your "Soil
Exhaustion and Rotation in Crops, ' ' and it induces me to ask
you to prepare an article to be published in the next Annual
Report of this department on the subject of the different crops
and different manures and the relation which they bear to
each other. — I do not mean to dictate what shall be the title
of any article, but merely to suggest a general subject, leaving
you to determine what shall be most practically useful to the
agriculturists of the country.

170 LETTEK-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

Two years later this same paper on soil exhaustion
was reprinted in the Eeport of the Michigan Board of
Agriculture — ''for the information of farmers in our
state." Its numerous previous republications, either
in whole or in part, had by this time made it public
property — Mr. Goodale, secretary of the Maine Board
of Agriculture, said in a letter dated August 24, 1872 :

I have just been looking over your lectures given at Daniel-
sonville and being impressed anew with their gre'at value I
write now especially to ask if you would be willing for me
to repriat them in my next report — and I would like to pre-
face them with a notice of ' ' How Crops Grow ' ' and ' ' Feed, ' '
commending them to a place in every farmer's library. The
lectures would so effectually justify, endorse and enforce the
commendation.

In May 1873, Professor Johnson, as chemist to the
State Board of Agriculture, made his report on *'Ash
of Tobacco." This report was the beginning of years
of work and experiment of the greatest value to the
tobacco-growing industry of Connecticut. The inves-
tigation then begun has since been prosecuted by the
Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, and in
view of the permanent importance of this work still
going on, it is curious to see reflected in a letter of the
time how lightly it was then regarded by the interests
it most benefited and how precarious was the very
existence of the Board of Agriculture, whose modest
appropriation alone made possible the execution of
the analyses involved in the research. Professor
Johnson's private assistant of the year before wrote,
in 1874, inquiring as to the continuance of this work,
as follows:

STATE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE 171

(E. H. J. TO S. W. J.)

Falmouth, July 17— Aug. 11, 1874.

My dear Professor, — ... I have seen no eulogium on the
yeomen of Conn, coupled with an announcement of the estab-
lishment of an Agricultural Experiment Station in Conn.,
and so conclude that either Mass. papers are not alive to the
absorbing question of the day or that the measure has failed
to go through. ... I remember that when I left New Haven
there was some uncertainty as to the continuation of the
Board of Agriculture. My object in writing now is to enquire
whether that body has outlived the Legislature and whether
you expect to continue missionary labor in that field. If so,
and if agreeable to you, I should like to continue my labors
as last year. I feel that another year of your kind tuition
would be of great advantage to me before going "into the
world where I must meet tribulation" and I think I could
accomplish more another year. I am sorry to hear that you
are still at work in New Haven and hope you will take time
during this month for some relaxation. Don't cut the
Adversary off without one chance for finding mischief for
idle hands. Very truly yours, Edward H. Jenkins.

When, in April 1875, Mr. Lawes acknowledged the
receipt of the Report on Tobacco, he said :

In reference to the recovery of 76 per cent of the Nitrogen
supplied in Mr. Alden Smith's crop as compared with 50 in
my crops, you must remember that my calculations are based
upon the increase obtained over the unmanured produce or
over the mineral manured produce, — if I used Phosphates and
Ammonia I deduct the whole produce obtained by the phos-
phates without Nitrogen. Large as my loss of Nitrogen in
artificial manure appears to be, I have reason to think it will
be exceeded by that in the farm yard manure. After 20 years
application of dung to Barley it was stopped in 1872, and we
shall see in a few years what is recovered. I forward by Book

172 LETTEK-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

post 3 copies of a short paper I have recently published.
There is nothing particularly new or interesting in it in a
scientific point of view, excepting that relating to Root crops
and their inability to take up organic matter as such from
the soil. For a long time I thought that one of the properties
of Roots, such as mangolds, turnips, etc., was to obtain carbon
from already organized matter, but after 30 years experiments
we have no evidence of such a fact. Farmers here cannot
understand my views concerning the exhausting nature of
Roots, they are so accustomed to consider them as great
increasers of fertility.

Early in February 1874, Mr. Crandell, of the New
York Tribune, begged for all possible promptness in
forwarding ''copy," and closed his letter thus:

I am highly pleased with the article on the true uses of
scientific theory, and worked it for a place of honor in the
next issue. It will, I trust, serve as an antidote to the Grad-
grinds and it throws an unexpected boomerang at the heads
of certain flatulent individuals who send me high-sounding
disquisitions about things they do not understand.

A few days later, Mr. Crandell wrote :

The review of Bussey Bulletin reaches me too late for next
Weekly, but it has salt sufficient to save it till another issue.
It is just the sort of thing I wanted, and shows the immense
advantage of having a job done by a man who has his
''Forte."

Professor Storer's graceful appreciation of this
review follows :

Jamaica Plain, Mass., 20 Feb. 1874.

Dear Johnson, — Thanks and thanks! I owe you debts of
gratitude both for the writing of sweet discourses and for the
sending of them. Pleasant it is to get a whiff of sympathetic
appreciation of one's points and of one's attitude.

STATE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE 173

Besides, I have reread with an entirely impersonal interest
your reply to "S. G." and have found it in that sense a
remarkable, neat bit of professional exposition.

N. B. Why don't some of you Conn, folk send us the
"State Reports" of that ilk? We have nothing since 1869,
if my memory serves me aright, — I thought it "rough" that
I should first see (or hear of) your article on leached ashes,
in the N. Y. Druggists' Circular.

In October, Professor Storer wrote commenting with
approval upon some of Professor Johnson's contribu-
tions to the Tribune. As these articles often found
their occasion in erroneous statements widely believed
and repeated by many writers for the agricultural
press, they were at times unavoidably controversial in
tone.

Jamaica Plain, Mass., 20 Oct. 1874.

Dear Johnson, — It occurs to me that if I don't send my
benediction soon there will be small sense in speaking at all.

I was curious to see if anyone would catch the point of H's
discourse. The blunder was so stupendous that I was forced
to study my own skreed before I could believe my eyes. The
thing hit me instantly, of course, because repeated observation

(during the three years) has enforced the lesson that W 's

Superphosphate was very poor stuff. But I had doubt whether
others would notice the pit which H. had dug for himself. I
said, — for ray own part — "Give a rogue a rope!" — 'Tis a
crying shame that I can never have a talk with you! Yours
sincerely, F. H. Storer.

Other letters which passed between the friends dis-
cussed various topics, agricultural and professional.
At the time these were written only a tentative begin-
ning bad been made in the study of the basic problems
of animal nutrition ; crude and unscientific notions on

174 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

the subject were widely current, the fallibility of
which was not proven. ''Captain Pierce's critters"
alluded to in the first of the following letters were the
victims of experimental feeding similar to that inflicted
upon the better-known cows of Mr. Miller.

Jamaica Plain, Mass., 11 April, 1875.

My dear Johnson, — Strange to say I know your hand-
writing at sight. That I am glad to see it goes without talk-
ing. I am proud and happy to expedite the Bulletins to their
several destinations. Pray let me know of any one who may
care to see them — or rather make him let me know. I can
tell from my own sentiments how you must loathe to touch
pen to paper. Were it not for this standing horror I would
write you triweekly. Thus, I wanted to ask didn't Capt.
Pierce's cattle gnaw boards or "browse," or something such,
what time they ate the corn per sef There is an old sea yarn
to the effect that a ship 's carpenter saved the cow 's life, after
the hay had gone overboard and she was reduced to a diet
of meal, by gradually planing down a spare spar and occupy-
ing her paunch and grinders with the shavings thereof.
Many a Nanny goat has been saved on long voyages by a
ration of barrel-hoops enlivened by bits of biscuit, and the
traditions of seafarers emphasize the hoops more than they
do the grain product, possibly of course because the latter
had to be sparing.

That is a very interesting lead, which I hope you will follow
to the other end.

I read your skreed on commercial manures with great in-
terest and commendation — as I do all your Tribune articles.
Thine, F. H. Storer.

New Haven, Connecticut, Apr, 17, 1875.

My dear Storer, — Yours and the Bulletins and the spurned
guerdon are all safely rec'd with thanks. I must rise to

STATE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE 175

explain how mortified I was on reading that Cob article, after
it was printed, to find what I hadn't said. And the browsing
of Capt. Pierce's critters was a point I explicitly asked him
about, and intended explicitly to state and intended also to
query about the browse of Miller's cows, but with a head
pothered about too many things and no digestion to speak of
to bolster it, I got off the track, misled a trifle by the query
whether bulk of Rohfaser is needed, and hurried by many
things undone and having to write piecemeal. Bah! 0 for
a lodge! — that last looks like dodge, well call it dodge, that'll
do as well as lodge !

The Tribune ''euchred" me (whatever that is!) into an-
other year's query answering. I like it for it leads me to
meditate on many interesting things, and I don't like it for
it compels me to attend to many stupid things. I tried to scare
the ag. editor off by naming a loud price, but he swallowed my
hook and I am a literary hack for 1875, at least.

You may have noticed that we have been stirring the Exp.
Station question here, last two winters and summer — I don't
suppose the General Assembly of Conn, will do anything
about it except refer it to the next Gen. Ass'y, but the talk
will do good and there are a good many fine old farmers and
bright young farmers in Connecticut (as elsewhere in New
England and westward) who are getting their ag. College
education out of the discussions. Then the S. S. School has
an interest (manly one) in doing good to the Conn, farmers.

My Sisyphean bowlder now is a new edition of "Fresenius'
Qualitative" translated into new system — a real need for our
School, and my last push to the Sheffield Laboratory, as I am
no longer Professor of "Analytical" and have given the
Labty over to Allen and Mixter, simply sitting up aloft among
the thunder, a kind of Jupiter of reference, and when I get
gray and sallow enough — and I haven't long to wait, — shall
be merry within, at the awe I may inspire among the youths.

By the way, we have analyzed a com cob, and it doesn't
come up to the entkornte maiskolben aus Steyermark that

176 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

Stoeckhardt 's young man analyzed, and that Wolff, v. Gohren,
Kiilin, etc., quote as a "mittel." Haven't the figures here in
my Trumbull St. attic, but will publish them by and by.

I have done a heavy amount of work on P2O5 estimations
during two or three years past, mostly with negative results,
don't know as I shall ever get time to write up. Before Carius
published, I had satisfied myself that pure H2O and common
air yield NH4NO2, at temperature from 20° to 100° Centi-
grade. I never did believe half of Schonbein's facts, and now
that Carius finds that ozone doesn't oxidize nitrogen, I wish
old Schonbein were alive again to hear it ! As to P2O5, I find
that Otto's use of T to keep up FegOg and AI2O3 when you
ppt. P2O5 with Mg solution is simply perfect, if you use
enough T, enough to give a greenish-yellow solution and 5 to
10 grams of T doesn't impair the result seriously, but if you
use too little T and have a reddish-yellow solution, you have
an imperfect separation of P2O5. Ci is of no use, Church
Ville, and De Vill to the contrary.

Invpried 'rose "of

per/oraiet/iin ii/ii^

Jlai/ilier oni/oHoni

Thought I had a method for coming it over the superphos-
phates in one couip, viz., to aqueous or acid solution, with Fe;
Al, CaSO^, &c. &c, add q. s. (NHJ2T, MgSO,, NH.Cl and
NH3 — filter on inverted ''rose" of "perforated tin" with flat
filter on bottom, wash, without transferring ppt. moisten with

STATE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE 177

concentrated Mg(N08)2 sol-, dry, ignite, solve in HCl and
titre with Uran; but the Ca and Mg in variable and large
quantities destroy the nicety of the Uran method. There
was no trouble in getting out all P2O5, free from Fe and Al.
In presence of much Ca, its nasty tartrate bothered the fil-
tration also. I may make something out of it yet, but couldn 't
hitherto get with it so quickly and goodly as by the molybdic
method, — M0O3 for which, through Mixter's commercial
talent, I get of B. for $8 per lb. (1/2 kilo) instead of the $12.
he so accommodatingly charges. Goodbye. Come and see
me and believe me, Yours as ever, S. W. Johnson.

Jamaica Plain, Mass. 27 April, 1875.

Dear Johnson, — I rejoice to learn of your release from
analytic drudgery, and do heartily congratulate you in that
regard — and the country at large likewise. I am steadfast
in the faith (as I always have been) that the day of agricul-
tural students is not very far off. I even dare to hope that
it may come in our time, and I am sure that nothing can tend
more forcibly to help the tardy birth than the putting of
yourself into that state of "unencumbered leisure!!! and
mind at ease" which the poets dream of.

I shall look now for the speedy issue of those works, on
"Tillage" and on "Foddering" — especially the latter, for
which the country is clearly ripe and yearning, . . ,

What you say in praise of many of your Conn, farmers, and
of the progress of things in your state, consists entirely with
the opinion I had formed from reading Mr. Gold's reports.
The excellence of the Connecticut reports is assuredly a stand-
ing proof of the good influence which the Sheffield School has
exerted upon matters agricultural. 'Tis a point which Yale
may congratulate herself upon — freely. You are quite right
to stand by the Tribune, — and the Tribune will be foolish if
it lets you slip ; 'tis a standing wonder to me, though, how you
can turn off such good talk at such short notice and under

178 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

your stress of work. Davenport Fisher (now of Milwaukee)
expatiated to me last autumn in the warmest terms of the
good you were doing at the west through your Tribune
articles. Speaking of PoOg, I have been impressed of late
by the personal knack required to get good results, or rather,
I have encountered two or three analysts otherwise good, who
perversely insisted in dragging down MgO in their double
phosphate of MgONH4, while the rest of us were making
excellent weather with the same reagents and with the same
"light." I have noticed also repeatedly that in presence of
a large excess of Na2S04 the yellow phosphomolybdic ppt. is
often fearfully sluggish, and can be moved only by an enor-
mous excess of the precipitant. Yrs, F. H. Storer.

After the exchange of several letters mth Professor
Italo Giglioli, later director of the Agricultural Exper-
iment Station at Rome, arrangements were concluded
for the translation into Italian of "How Crops Grow."
On April 9, 1875, Professor Giglioli wrote:

I need not tell you how glad I will be if the Italian edition
of "How Crops Grow" contain your latest additions and
corrections. ... I see with pleasure that you take interest
in the progress of the Agricultural Sciences in Italy. Our
Agricultural Stations are as yet very young, and have not
yet taken that practical turn which is so necessary in order
to render them accessible and acceptable to the class of Agri-
culturists in general; it is to be hoped that gradually they
will adapt themselves better to the local wants which sur-
round them. In the United States, where the people have
enjoyed for such a long time the blessings of an excellent
general education, liberally bestowed on all classes, you can-
not have any idea of the difficulties and opposition that sur-
round those who want to improve the Agriculture of this
country, . . . American Agriculturists ought to take interest
in Italian cultivations now that some of these seem to have

STATE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE 179

been introduced in California. I am glad to hear that you
hope coming to Italy.

Twenty-five years spent under unwholesome condi-
tions had greatly affected Professor Johnson's health.
He had practically lived in laboratory air, heavily
laden with noxious fumes; to this was added brain
fatigue induced by literary work. He struggled on
through the labors and disappointments of this year —
the account of which belongs to the story of the estab-
lishment of the experiment station — until the summer,
when, to bear his share in building up the sub-section
of chemistry just formed in the American Association
for the Advancement of Science, he went to Detroit.
Before starting on this long, hot journey, he joined
for a short time his friends. Professor and Mrs. Nor-
ton of New Haven, at their country home on Shepard
Hill, Holderness. The peaceful beauty of the New
Hampshire hill country was very dear to him, and this
hospitable home, always freely open, was an accus-
tomed refuge. On his return to New Haven he found
a note from Professor Norton commenting upon his
activity at Detroit:

I see by the paper you sent rae that you have fully shaken
off the Holderness laziness, and set to work again. Reading
half a dozen papers at one session is a rather precipitate
recovery from the quieting influences of this region.

When Professor Johnson attempted to resume his
college duties at the beginning of the fall terra, it
became evident that he was seriously unwell. After
a few months under the care of physicians, he went
abroad, in the hope that an entire change of scene
would expedite his recovery.

180 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

Just before his departure, a correspondent told of
discouragement and failure in the attempts made in
Virginia to secure legislation for the prevention of
frauds in fertilizers, and alluded to reports which had
reached him that ''the protective legislation of your
state and section has resulted in failure. ' ' He went on
to say:

In view of the spirit you have manifested in devoting your
professional skill and experience to the service of the public,
I would ask the favor of a condensed review of the whole sub-
ject, presented; especially of the remedial legislation had, its
success or failure, and the causes thereof. Please give your
views on the reliability of chemical analysis as a test of agri-
cultural value. ... As your reply will be of general interest,
and especially valuable to the struggling farmers of eastern
Virginia, I beg that it may be made public in whatever manner
you may deem best.

But overworked nerves had asserted their right to
rest and this letter was filed away, its request disre-
garded. On hearing of his proposed trip, Professor
Peter Collier, an early pupil of Professor Johnson,
and later director of the New York Agricultural Sta-
tion at Geneva, wrote :

I heard some time since of your poor health. . . . Atwater
called to see me a week ago, and is going into the Experiment
Station work. I certainly hope under your advice, and had
hoped under your supervision, for the pursuance of this work
in this country by anybody not under you is playing Hamlet
with Hamlet left out, as you and everybody else knows. . . .
Now I don't wish you to answer this letter unless you have
lots of time and feel like it, but I do hope to hear you are
better, — yes, quite well. ...

STATE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE 181

Professor Johnson wrote home with great regular-
ity during the four months of his absence, in spite of
neuritis, then called ** writer's cramp." His first
letter tells of pleasant acquaintances made on ship-
board :

Cunard steamer Parthia at sea, about 200 miles

from Queenstown, Jan. 14, 1876.

Dear wife, — I am near the end of the ocean passage and for
the first time on the voyage sit down to write a letter. . . .

We carry but some 25 cabin passengers and there is plenty
of room, good ventilation, excellent attendance arid general
sociability. The Captain and officers are pleasant men, the
sailors are jolly and tarry (tar-y), and the passengers are
mostly good fellows and appear to be very well met. Most
of the latter are business men. Two from California and
Nevada, two from Cape Colony, six from Canada and the
rest from the "States." Pleasant people are Mr. and Mrs.
W. H. F. of New York, going with two children to south of
France and Italy. Mr. F. is a brother of M. F., who wrote
a pleasant book of Recollections of Distinguished People, or
something of that sort, which I read in the Club not long
since. Mamie F. is a solid damsel of ten years, who takes her
rations even worse than I do, and manifests an amount of
bodily energy quite astonishing. Willie F. is a six year old,
I should judge, and he and I are both very fond of bear
stories. His bears always swallow a small boy and then burst.
Well, now I must stop and walk deck for an hour or so, for
the heat rises in this poor head of mine and the cold goes down
my boot-legs to the toes, and that is a warning not to be
slighted. . . .

The dose of fresh air which I have had since leaving home
is something big. . . . The smoking room on the top deck is
the scene of most hilarity. With three exceptions all the male
adult passengers smoke and drink. The smoking room just
accommodates us all, and whist, "Hot Scotch" (a drink),

182 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

songs and yams serve to sacrifice the hours. I drop in
now and then, when it is dull elsewhere, as when tired of
walking, or in cold or rain, or when cold, and take a hand in
the talk, or enjoy a quiet snooze. Last night a quiet-mannered
man but a determined-looking one, from 'Frisco, undertook
to make a time and ordered up the drinks until he got quite
unsteady, but the other imbibers kept their heads and got the
Captain to stop the supplies. This made a muss and 'Frisco
went for the Captain, but was let down so gently that he seems
to feel almost happy again today. He only brought $10,000
gold for his four months amusement, so he says! I believe
I haven 't mentioned on board the extent of my supplies ! We
saw yesterday some porpoises jumping in the distance, but
too far away for fun. This morning a ship under sail was
in view to the south, but still far away. We are practically
alone. The ocean is so vast that all the world's harbors are
a drop in its bucket, and in steaming 2600 miles we have seen
but four vessels since fairly out of New York. . . .

Another afternoon on deck with Willie F. We walked,
jumped, ran and told stories. This time he wanted a snake
story, so I told him of a lady who, when a little girl, fed a
rattlesnake. That story, with suitable details and embellish-
ments, was pronounced extremely satisfactory. Miss Mamie
came up just in time to hear it. Then she asked if I had any
little children, and when I explained the extent of my house-
hold and added that the Mother in my house was the heroine
of the snake story, the children's gratification rose to the
highest pitch. . . .

Now my twelfth page is almost done, and under a sky full
of the stars that you may be seeing in an hour or two, under
the same Dipper that hangs low over Trumbull Street on
winter nights, I write goodbye and God keep you. ... To all,
best love, S. W. J.

While in Liverpool he greatly enjoyed seeing once
again an old friend of Munich days. He tells of this

STATE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE 183

in a long letter written in London, extracts from which
follow :

(S.W.J. TO E.E.J.)

Jan. 19— Feb. 8, 1876.

. . . Returning on Tuesday to my hotel (in Liverpool), I
found a messenger with a note from Mr. Muspratt, and I at
once accepted his invitation to dine that evening. Meeting
him at his oflSce at five o'clock, I found him fuller faced and
heavier than 20 years ago, but quite recognizable and very
cordial. "We went by rail some four miles to Seaforth at the
north entrance to the Mersey, and soon walked thence to
Seaforth Hall, built by his father 35 years ago. After warm-
ing my toes at the grate in his den, I was escorted to the
dining-room, . . . there was introduced to Mr. James Mus-
pratt the grandfather, 84 years old but as hearty as talkative,
and, bating a little deafness, as young as any of us. Also to
Miss Muspratt, — the next day she was to go with her father
to Cheltenham to enter the new Woman's College. The dinner
passed pleasantly, Muspratt being a capital talker and well
posted in American affairs and a great friend of the North.

In this dining-room hung a superb portrait of Liebig by
Frautschold, very similar to the engraving Brush gave me,
but painted since Liebig 's death and a better and truer as well
as more beautiful portrait. After being shown all the pictures,
busts and statuary, in the dining-room, library and hall by Mr.
James Muspratt, I went with Mr. Edmund to take a smoke,
and an hour or two passed in pleasant chat until at 9.30 the
cab came to take me to the station. . . . Next day brought
me to liOndon.

. . . Friday and Saturday I walked about town through
the once before visited streets, Oxford, Regent, Strand, Cheap-
side, Piccadilly, Pall Mall, etc. The old landmarks mostly
remain, but many new ones have appeared. The shops are
vastly more brilliant, the statues and fine buildings more
numerous than 20 years ago. London is in fact improved in

184 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

the very heart of it and a grand city it is. I never appre-
ciated it so fully as I do now. When I was here before I was
in haste to see much in a little space and saw everything
very cursorily. Now I have walked day after day through
the same streets, those I have named, and the solidity and
grandeur of the public buildings, monuments, etc., impress
me more. . . .

Yesterday morning Mr. Elliott of the N. Y. Graphic pro-
posed a walk to Regent Square where stands the Presbyterian
Church which was built for, and first preached in by, Edward
Irving. We found it in 15 minutes travel in what 50 yrs.
ago was the best part of the city and is still very good. Going
into the gallery we found a large and handsome building
well filled with a most intelligent and attentive congregation.
The shelves of all the pews were black with Bibles and hymn
books, completely covered, in fact, with them. In the pulpit
the Rev. Dr. Dykes, a fine solid-looking man, was speaking
in a most pleasant and dignified manner. This discourse was
upon the government of the church and was very learned,
very thoughtful, very sound. I was a Presbyterian again. . . .
Coming home after church I had a desperately hurried dress-
ing for dinner out, and after getting myself in passable order
with my best clothes, rode in cab to St. John 's Wood. Reached
there just in time, was very cordially rec'd by Mr. and Mrs.
Stevens. . . . Then Mr. Stevens walked with me to the ' ' Zoo ' '
where we saw the turtle 200 years old (900 lbs. weight), the
elephants, etc., but hurriedly and but few of them as it was
late. Returning, we had tea and afterwards talked until
10 P.M. when I rode nearly home in a 'bus for three
pence. . . .

Last evening I stepped into a church where evening service
was going on. I found a small audience, of women mostly,
with four clergymen officiating. The service was intoned.
The music was simple. The sermon was an earnest one by a
very young man. I was very tired and the service was medi-
cine to me. ... I remain quite undetermined when I shall

STATE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE 185

move on to Paris. The annoyances of travel really begin on
starting out from London, and I feel entirely unequal to
encountering them. . . .

I hope you will try to get some rest, — try to get into restful
habits. Age is coming upon us and it will not be profitable
or pleasant to wear out too rapidly. . . . Sunday I heard
Monsignor Capel (Pope's Legate) preach in the Chapel of
the Assumption. A very excellent sermon he gave, that would
have been in all respects acceptable in Trinity or Center at
New Haven. . . .

In London, Professor Johnson found his surround-
ings comfortable and homelike, he was able to rest,
and so lingered until Dr. Uricoechea, then living in
Paris, took the strenuous measures indicated in this
note:

Now you lazy boy, you get up and leave your nasty foggy
climate. True we have not very good weather now here, but
it is much better than yours at all events. I write to you in
a hurry because I receive this very moment a letter from the
Secretary of our Legation who is coming over on Wednesday,
and I pray him to take you along. Mr. Guzman will probably
call on you personally. Hurry up ! . . .

Mr. Guzman called, his diplomacy won the day, and
Professor Johnson cheerfully accompanied him to
Paris, where he spent a delightful month with friends,
old and new. Letters to his family tell of this and of
his trip through Italy:

(S.W.J. TO E.E.J.)

Ma ch^re Elizabeth, — I came abroad for change and I have
it. Wednesday morning at 7 o'clock my friend Mr. Guzman
called for me in London, and in a trice I was with him in the

186 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

cab on the way to Charing Cross Station. . . . Two nights
I have slept in a 5 franc room, on the "1st floor" (2d story)
in a pleasant but cold and noisy corner room. Today I have
ascended ' ' au troisieme "... Guzman is near at hand on the
same floor. I have thus far adopted the habits of the coun-
try— begun the day at 9 o'clock with cafe au lait and a
petit pain — this morning I ordered trois petits pains. At
12 Guzman and I meet Uricoechea at the Hotel de la Con-
corde, 26 Boulevard Malsherbes, which is close by. Break-
fast there is eggs or cotelettes de mouton, b 'f steak, cold meats,
etc., with excellent claret. At 6 P.M. we dine at the same
place, a regular 5 courses, and excellent cooking and service.
English and German spoken there by the waiters, as well as
here where I lodge. The first day of our arrival we dined
here and it was very good, but not so "fine" nor so good
company as at the Concorde. Uricoechea looks very well, not
quite so well as eight years ago (almost) when at New
Haven — he shows a little gray hair on the temples — ^but still
quite well. . . . When we arrived here "Wednesday evening
(Mercredi, I must make a "Section" now and then) we en-
tered the salle-a-manger where the dinner was in progress,
and immediately the landlady bounced upon Guzman, seized
his hands, then patted his face, then kissed him — a compli-
ment he returned very beautifully — both talking and laughing
with genuine joy all the time.

Guzman was very enthusiastically received also by Mr.
Pacheco, a Peruvian gentleman, and in a less pathetic manner
by an English lady staying here. Shortly Uricoechea arrived
and then we both embraced, etc., very glad you may be sure
at this meeting which a little while ago was not in our pro-
gramme. After dinner we adjourned to Mr. Pacheco 's room,
on our floor and spent the evening until 11 o'clock. Mr. P.
speaks English, having learned it in the U. S. three yrs ago
where he traveled considerably. Mr. P. invited us to visit
him again last evening and "assist" in a Chinese lesson he
was to take from a Chinaman educated in French, Latin, etc.

STATE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE 187

by Jesuit missionaries in China. Mr. Pacheco speaks, as his
mother tongue, the language of the Ineas, and is desirous of
studying Chinese on account of the many resemblances. In
due time Mr. Ting Whang appeared, a short, stoutish, bright-
eyed Celestial, attired in Paris mode, and proceeded to give
the vowel and consonant sounds and the articles, pronouns
and verb moods and tenses. It was very interesting. Uri-
coechea, who is up in languages, followed, or in many cases
went ahead, and the Castilian (in descent), the Peruvian and
Chinaman made lively work of it for an hour and a half,
discussing each pointy and practicing each sound and word.
After Mr. Ting-a-Ling bade us Bon Soir we chatted together
in all our languages until 11 P.M. when I retired to my
refrigerator au premier, stirred up my embers, warmed my
toes and went to bed. I didn't sleep very well, but kept try-
ing until 9 o'clock A.M. when I got my coffee, dressed and
went up to see what Guzman was about, found him en
deshabille. Pacheco then entered and while Guzman washed
and dressed we talked a la mar got. The speedy arrival of 12
o'clock took Guzman and me to breakfast. We found Uri-
coechea had been and gone. We ate our eggs and cutlets,
drank our bottle of excellent Bordeaux, and then I went with
Guzman to his Bottler, etc., several calls, and returning began
this letter. Before dinner we walked up the Champs Elysees,
went to Uri's to find him out, and got around at dinner time.
Uri. had been all day in the Library. The table at the Hotel
de la Concorde was quite brilliant, Guzman at head of table,
Uricoechea next on my side, then myself, then Mr. Baron
Capitaine Something, then Madame Quelque Chose, a quite
nice old lady, then a young Madame, then Miss John Bull
very healthy, etc. On the other side of the table opposite
me, two French damsels — their papa looking like a country
parson, and others not particularly discriminated. The Baron
next me talks English, has a chest like a barrel, from much
fencing and other athletics I should say, and a voice like a
locomotive. After dinner we adjourned to the Salon for

188 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

coffee, where conversation kept the party together for nearly
an hour.

. . . The Madeleine is the only church I have been in during
service. Today I went with Mr. Pacheco to the Louvre. . . .
Here and now, as of old in Germany, I find more pleasure,
with few exceptions, in modern works, both paintings and
sculpture, than in antiques. It's very stupid, doubtless, but
I can't help it, and I also enjoy seeing men and women more
than looking at monkeys. Perhaps that argues for Darwin-
ianism? The galleries of the Louvre are very fine, good
light, — warmed, most of them, — the rooms themselves are often
more elegant and interesting than the objects they contain.
This morning we walked for nearly two hours through modern
sculpture — none less than 100 years old ; paintings, from those
like the Jarves collection down to French work of the last
century, room after room; vases and small sculptures in
agate, quartz and semi-precious stones; and finally splendid
Egyptian and Assyrian monuments, sarcophagi, etc. Quite
instructive and very fatiguing after the second hour.

I now think I shall move towards Italy in a few days. I
begin to think I should enjoy traveling and I have almost
decided upon a definite plan as follows: In three days one
of "Cook's personally conducted parties" leaves here for a
30 days Italian tour under the guidance of an Italian who
attends to all the business of the party according to a definite
printed programme. . . . Railroaded, coached, lodged, fed
and shown to all the noteworthy objects in the route, and duly
returned safe and sound! There are objections to this mode
of travel. In fact it is a humbug of the most stupidly infantile
and imbecile sort, but I am in just the mood for it. It gives
me an occupation without care. I will try it. If I thrive
under it, I will try travel on my own account, if not, I will
go home, buy a horse and carriage and a boat, and devote
myself to my family and my muscle. . . .

March 14, Venice. ... I arrived at Turin at 8 o'clock.
There I found Mr. Giglioli at the hotel, having apprised him

STATE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE 189

of my coming. Had a long walk with him from 9 P.M. until
midnight, in moonlight, about the city and up a high hill com-
manding the city. He is a very handsome and agreeable man,
speaking English perfectly. — Was two years in England —
his translation [of How Crops Grow] is shortly going to
press. . . .

March 30, Naples. ... I have enjoyed Naples and can
tell you something of its glorious nastiness and beautiful
environs when we meet, but I cannot write. The stone floor
under the carpet is like ice to my feet, and my boots, just up
from a subterranean scullery, are like twice frozen rawhide
to the feel. I must be up and stirring or the chills will have
me. Yesterday on the slopes of Vesuvius, the tig trees were
pushing their young leaves, pear trees were in blossom, wheat
was 18 inches high and the air was almost equal to that of
Shepard Hill, but not quite.

Paris, Apr. 7, 1876. . . . Tuesday to Turin. Wednesday
I spent in company with Mr. Giglioli. Visited the University,
technical school, Ag. Expt. Station, etc. Wednesday night
to Paris. . . . The month in Italy was most favorable for
outdoor life. ... As regards health, I think it is now mainly
a matter of digestion, and I don't expect to get right until I
have had a course of country air and bodily exercise.

During these three months of rest amid new sur-
roundings, with pleasing society that diverted and
amused him, Professor Johnson had gained steadily in
nervous strength, and the prostrating headaches came
less frequently. He avoided, of necessity, the people
and the places that, had he been well, he would of
all others have longed to see. Only in Turin had he
indulged in the keen professional pleasure of long
talks with Mr. Giglioli and had made careful visits of
inspection to the University, the Museum and the Agri-
cultural Experiment Station, the latter recently estab-

190 LETTEE-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

listed. With his return to Paris in improved health,
the impulse to get back to work was irresistible and
he soon started for home, where he resumed, under
those abiding disabilities which such an illness ahvays
leaves, the work which was an integral part of his life.
The friends who had bidden him Godspeed were there
to welcome, and among the first to send greetings was
Professor Collier:

Welcome home to you ! I have just heard from one of my
laboratory students who has been analysing fertilizers at your
Conn. Exp. Station, of your return, and I hasten to con-
gratulate you. I do hope you are wholly restored, and that
you may come up to Vermont this vacation. . . . Somehow
your name, and your experience, is so inseparable with that
work [Experiment Station] that I can't but hope you may
be connected with it, if only as advisory head of the concern.

After a summer spent in rest and outdoor exercise.
Professor Johnson was able to resume his college work
at the opening of the fall term. For the first time in
many years, twelve full months had passed without a
publication of any sort, and he wrote fewer non-pro-
fessional letters than ever before. In response to one
of the few, now lost, Professor Storer wrote on the
18th of November:

I am delighted to hear from you — and to get so favorable
an ac't. Curiously eno' I had had a mem. in my note book
for a week to ask Eliot if he had ever heard from you. The
amount of the business is, young man, that we are both of
us less young than we were some years since — and all organic
chem. does go to prove that thesis. Thank the Lord I don't
have to profess that branch in my old age. Permit me to
remark most emphatically that three lectures a week is not
light work for those kinds of men who steam up and who vim

STATE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE 191

it when they work. . . . Clear out those note books of yours,
if you can, forthwith, for 'tis a sin and a shame to have your
fellowmen run the risk of wasting their powers upon trees
that you have already climbed. I was particularly anxious
last summer — and so I found was Atwater — to see that paper
on nitrates that you presented to the Sci. Assoc, some time
since. . . .

I have missed you consumedly in the Tribune, particularly
on account of the hue and cry about ' ' Stockbridge fertilizers ' '
which has been wellnigh unbearably strong in this state of
Mass. That Bruit needed to have been grasped with a firm
hand before it made much head. In view of your computa-
tion on page 364 of H. C. F. and of my own computations in
C. B., as to the agreement of my expts. with mixed fertili-
zers,— let alone the whole tone and drift of agric. literature
for years, — the taking out and yet more the giving, of a
patent for such device was truly pitiable, as exhibiting the
lowness of our status. . . .

My isolation here is little short of awe-ful. I have no
colleagues for communion, no clientage of farmers, and abso-
lutely no one but the greenest of students to talk to. . . .

I will send you Part V of our Bulletin tomorrow. We
mean to get out another Part early in '77.

Poverty has reduced us to the strait of resorting to a pub-
lisher in the hope of getting some salvage, as his circular will
explain. I will enclose it as a piece of evidence and trust that
there is no need for me to add that the Bulletin is still proud
to present itself to the elected, and that subscriptions will not
be received from our kindred, whether they be men or
societies. . , .

CHAPTER VII

THE CONNECTICUT AGRICULTURAL EXPERI-
MENT STATION

To bring together the story of Professor Johnson's
connection with the establishment of the experiment
station in Connecticut, it is necessary to go back to
December 1873. He then introduced to the Board of
Agriculture at their winter meeting, as a recent
recruit to their ranks and as the lecturer of the day.
Professor W. 0. Atwater, who had just returned to
Connecticut and a professorship at Wesleyan, and who
had previously been first student under and then pri-
vate assistant to himself ; in so doing he expressed his
personal satisfaction in being able to thus show the
fruit of his own twenty years' labor in education of
younger men in the field of scientific agriculture. After
Professor Atwater 's lecture before the Board, Pro-
fessor Johnson warmly advocated the establishment
in Connecticut of an agricultural experiment station,
and defined its proper work, speaking of ''those insti-
tutions which are almost peculiar to Germany, the
experiment stations, where the farmers of Germany,
wise beyond their generation on this side of the water,
support experimental gardens, farms and stables, and
all that is essential to an institution designed not only
to diffuse the knowledge which has already been
gained, but to gain knowledge in a multitude of direc-
tions where, until these movements were inaugurated a

STATE EXPERIMENT STATION 193

few years ago, we could see nothing but total dark-
ness." He went on to say:

I wish that in Connecticut we might have a similar insti-
tution. . , . It is in the power of Connecticut to do this, and
if we could only see the benefits that would flow from that
work, if we could only be put in the position of those who
in Germany inaugurated these enterprises, and have kept
them up so that now there are more than forty of these so-
called "experimental stations" in that country, every one of
which is turning out every year new and solid contributions
to the art (because to the science) of agriculture, — we should
not rest until it is done. I only wish that I could give up
the daily duty which it is necessary for me to follow and be a
missionary in the State of Connecticut, to go around among
the farmers and stir them up in this matter. If I could do
that, I should feel that I might go down to my grave with the
reputation of having done something for my State which I
know (and which some of you who are here before me will
know sometime, if you do not believe it now,) will be of more
benefit than all the agencies which are now working in behalf
of agriculture in this country. We are simply grinding over
the old grist which our fathers have given us; we are dis-
cussing the question of fertilization, and all that sort of thing,
just as was done in the days of the old Roman Empire. I
can go to my shelves and take down a history of Roman
agriculture, and can put my finger on almost all the good
ideas which you will hear ventilated in any agricultural meet-
ing in this country, — except those which have come within
the last thirty or forty years from the investigations of mod-
ern science. Why not throw up some broader, straighter and
firmer highways, whereon we can travel comfortably and
rapidly without discomfort from dust, or peril from mire?
Why not make the agriculture of New England the promi-
nent achievement of her civilization ? What is done in politics,
what is done in war, what is done in diplomacy, may be

194 LETTEE-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

written in books and may live in history, but what is done
in agriculture must live in the life of the people.

The next day Professor Johnson delivered, before
the Board, a lecture on ** Guiding Ideas in the Use of
Fertilizers," in which he clearly defined some of the
problems confronting the agriculturist, and made an
earnest appeal for the application of scientific prin-
ciples to everyday problems :

The best method of attaining truth is to endeavor earnestly
but honestly to disprove what appears to be true. If you set
out with the idea that you know a thing, you can very easily
convince yourself that you do, — particularly if you have
admiring friends who know nothing about the subject. That
lies in human weakness. The only way to be certain you have
got at the truth is to go counter to the current of self-
complacency. If you can sit down deliberately with your
supposed facts, and with your theories, and try by every
imaginable test to find where they do not harmonize, or where
they do not satisfy strict logic, then and not until then can
you be pretty certain that you stand fair and square on that
subject. That is the temper of those who are educated in
what we call the scientific methods of investigation, especially
as taught in the German schools. It was in that spirit that
Baron Liebig instructed the students who gathered in his
laboratory from all quarters of the globe to learn the art of
making discoveries in science. They were set to testing the
truth of some idea, or the correctness of some fact, or else to
make new observations and discover new facts to lead to new
ideas. It was not the novelty or the glory of discovery, but
the genuineness of discovery that was regarded as of first
importance. He listened patiently to their accounts of each
day 's progress, considered their plan of investigation, saw the
apparatus or arrangements they devised, witnessed the obser-
vations they were led to, and heard the theories they imagined.

STATE EXPERIMENT STATION 195

He encouraged, but he criticised. He asked questions, sug-
gested doubts, raised objections. His students were required
not only to collect facts, or supposed facts, and to connect and
complement them by comparison, analogies, and theories, but
they were made to attack their theories in every weak point,
and to verify or disprove the supposed facts by repeated
scrutiny from every side.

The science of our time is advancing rapidly because it is
moving cautiously, and therefore surely, and I dwell upon
this feature of scientific investigation because the facts to
which I have alluded, — the facts relating to the kinds of
matter required by plants as their food, — are of a positive and
firmly established sort, fully deserving our credence and fit
to be the basis of our intelligent practice. There are various
kinds of evidence. In the schools of theology and medicine,
in law, and in politics, there are numbers of doctrines, and
numbers of statements which many people believe to be true
and many others believe to be false. This diversity of belief
arises to some degree from the nature of the evidence, which
is often of a kind that cannot be conclusive. I may believe
in the immortality of the soul ; you may not. We can discuss
this question all our days without coming to a satisfactory
demonstration. Our belief, whichever way it runs, is a matter
of feeling as much as of logic. The arguments which convince
me are trifles to you ; those which settle your conviction have
no point to me. But in many things we can come nearer to
the fact. If I assert that when a stick of wood burns, oxygen
of the air combines chemically with carbon and hydrogen of
the wood, and that carbonic acid gas and vapor of water are
products of the chemical change, I expect to be implicitly and
fully believed, because the evidence of those statements is of
such a sort that any fair intellect can comprehend it, and
evidence of a contrary sort there is none.

Before the close of this meeting at Meriden, a com-
mittee, appointed to report to the Board concerning

196 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

the expediency of the establishment of an experiment
station, reported throngh its chairman, Professor
Johnson, ''their unanimous opinion that the State of
Connecticut ought to have an experiment station as
good as can be found anywhere, and they are of the
opinion that the Legislature of the State ought to
furnish the means for its immediate establishment and
for carrying it forward. They recommend that a per-
manent committee be appointed by this convention to
do such work as is necessary to bring this matter
before the people and before the Legislature, and to
accomplish the desired result either by direct legisla-
tive action or by whatever means may be necessary to
effect it, this committee to begin now and to work until
the thing is done. ' '

During 1874, agitation for the establishment of a
State agricultural experiment station in Connecticut
went on unremittingly. Professor Johnson took his
full share of this, cooperating with his associates in
the Board of Agriculture, and endeavoring to educate
the people and their representatives in the General
Assembly to a full understanding not only of the bene-
fits, but of the proper scope and necessary equipment
of a State station which should be able to perform all
that its friends would expect from it. He visited many
places in the state, lecturing and leading discussions
before local organizations of farmers. He also pre-
pared, under the title ''Science as a Means of Agri-
cultural Progress," a full historical account of the
agricultural experiment stations of Europe, and the
benefits which would follow their establishment here,
which was printed as a part of the report of the Shef-
field Scientific School for the year. Ten thousand addi-

STATE EXPERIMENT STATION 197

tional copies of ''Science as a Means of Agricultural
Progress" were printed by the Connecticut Board of
Agriculture and distributed throughout the state, thus
bringing the subject effectively before the people.

Professor Peter Collier, at this time secretary of
the Vermont Board of Agriculture, wrote frequently
and fully, telling of his part in the campaign for agri-
cultural progress in Vermont. In a letter dated De-
cember 30, 1873, he expressed regret that he was
unable to attend the Meriden meeting of the Connecti-
cut Board, and in closing, said:

So you see the cause is moving, up in Vermont. I hope I
may see you all again this side Heaven, but really it looks
doubtful, still I hope you will not forget one who in certain
respects follows you as one of his namesakes followed his
Master, though like him "afar off." —

In his letter of March 7, occurs a breezy comment on
the experiment station movement in Connecticut:

Are you going up to Hartford on the 24th instant? I see
you are announced as expected, so also am I. Well, the good
Lord has given me sense enough to know when I am not
needed, and that is to talk Agricultural Chemistry when you
are about, and so I write hoping to know whether you are to
be there.

At the next winter meeting of the Connecticut Board
of Agriculture, held in December 1874, its committee
on the experiment station reported a favorable recep-
tion of the idea among that part of the community
which they had been able to reach ; and gave an account
of a meeting of their committee before the Legisla-
ture's committee on agriculture where the subject was
discussed in detail with a strong delegation of leading

198 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

farmers actively present. As a result of these efforts
a bill endorsed by the committee of the Board of Agri-
culture had been presented to the Legislature. This
bill was retained in the legislative committee on agri-
culture until near the close of the session and then
reported with the recommendation that it be laid over
to the next session of the General Assembly.

Mr. Orange Judd, editor of the American Agricul-
turist and a trustee of Wesleyan University, had
already addressed this meeting of the Board of Agri-
culture, speaking in favor of the experiment station
movement in one of its practical aspects, but appar-
ently with no understanding of the scientific features
involved. In the general discussion following the
report of the Board's committee on the experiment
station, he took a prominent part, finally proposing to
the meeting that an association be formed and funds
raised by private subscription for the immediate estab-
lishment of a station. The discussion closed without
formal action, and this proposal was not again brought
up in the public meetings, although it was privately
and persistently agitated.

At a subsequent meeting of the committee of the
Board of Agriculture, it was decided to continue their
propaganda, but not attempt any other method of
raising funds. After this formal decision, Mr. Judd
took the matter into his own hands mthout any fur-
ther consultation with the committee. Professor John-
son was not in sympathy with Mr. Judd's project, and
when the measures advocated by the committee of the
Board, which he believed to be the best and only per-
manently useful ones, were defeated by agencies which
he had supposed pledged to the policies he repre-

STATE EXPERIMENT STATION 199

sented, he refused to participate in the establishment
of an experiment station as a private enterprise. The
project, however, did not lack supporters, and in the
spring of 1875 the Legislature, through the passage
of the following resolution, secured to Connecticut the
honor of establishing upon her soil the first agricul-
tural experiment station in America :

To Promote Agricultural Interests.

Whereas, the Trustees of the University at Middletown
tender the free use of ample laboratories and other facilities
for establishing and carrying on an Experiment Station, for
the general benefit and improvement of Agriculture and
kindred interests of the State of Connecticut : be it

Resolved by this Assembly: Section I. That the sum of
seven hundred dollars per quarter for two years, is hereby
appropriated to the University located at Middletown, Middle-
sex County, to be used in employing competent scientific men
to carry on the appropriate work of an Agricultural Experi-
ment Station; . . .

An American agricultural experiment station in
Connecticut was a cherished vision for the fulfilment
of which Professor Johnson had long worked ; at first
in cooperation with the Agricultural Society, in whose
meetings he had introduced the idea; later in official
connection with the State Board of Agriculture,
founded by a group of agriculturists who counted him
as their associate and their leader in scientific thought.
The result of these many years of persistent endeavor
was his identification with this project in the mind of
the public — he had come to be generally regarded as
the man best fitted to guide agitation for the securing
of a station in this country and to establish and develop

200 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

its policy. Quite naturally, therefore, when Mr. Judd
introduced and carried to a successful issue his plan
for an experiment station entirely different in scope
from the institution contemplated by the '^Farmers'
committee" of the Board of Agriculture, surprise and
disappointment ensued.

Under the legislative resolution this experiment sta-
tion was exclusively controlled by the trustees of Wes-
leyan University. An impression, founded upon Mr.
Judd's utterances and personal attitude, was wide-
spread ''that the purpose of this station was for the
analysis of commercial fertilizers alone," and to that
possible limitation was added the probability that the
new institution might become committed to a short-
sighted and mistaken policy, voiced by resolutions
passed in a farmers' club, which stated substantially
that they would patronize no manufacturer or dealer
who was not willing to put his wares under the control
of such an institution.

Professor Johnson had very clearly defined ideas,
based on his own long experience in such work, as to
the proper limitations and methods of exercising
a ''fertilizer control." He believed that it was not
expedient "for the station to attempt any formal and
systematic inspection of manufactories or store-houses
of fertilizers with the idea that such inspection can in
any sense be made a guarantee of the genuineness and
good quality of whatever is sent out therefrom. It is
held that the liability of any brand of fertilizer, if
exposed for sale anywhere in the state, to be subjected
to the scrutiny of the station, at the hands of con-
sumers and in the very condition in which it is offered
to them, will be the most easy, the most healthy and in

STATE EXPERIMENT STATION 201

the long run, the most certain and effectual method of
'control.' It has the great advantages over any other
system that it is entirely fair, that it so distributes
responsibility that the station and its officers cannot
enter into the temptation or incur the suspicion of
favoritism or partiality; it keeps the producer and
dealer constantly alert to hold their wares up to a high
standard of excellence; and it exercises the caution
and the intelligence of the consumer in a manner that
must react favorably on every branch of his business. "
Professor Johnson felt that the work had not been
rightly begun, and that it had been taken out of the
hands of the committee duly appointed for the work
by a private individual whose major interest was the
success of his agricultural journal. He believed that
the station should be an independent organization
rather than a subordinate department of an unrelated
institution, and that this public work should be done
with public funds, the expenditures being approved by
state officers, rather than by private donors.

Appropriations to the experiment station at Mid-
dletown were limited to two years. Before the expi-
ration of that time the General Assembly pro\ided for
the continuation of experimental work by the passage
of "an act establishing the Connecticut Agricultural
Experiment Station" as an independent State institu-
tion ''for the purpose of promoting agriculture by
scientific investigation and experiment." The defini-
tion thus incorporated into the legal existence of the
station was the fundamental one for which Professor
Johnson from the first had contended — that the experi-
ment stations of America should aim to lead research
in agricultural science in this country. The State

202 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

granted five thousand dollars annually to the new insti-
tution, and identified him with its organization by the
wording of the eighth section of the act, which begins,
''Professor Samuel W. Johnson of New Haven is
hereby empowered to appoint and call the first meeting
of the Board of Control." Immediately upon organi-
zation, on April 11, 1877, he was chosen director of the
station and eighth member of the Board. Three weeks
later the executive committee, consisting of Professor
Johnson, Professor Brewer and Mr. Webb, proceeded
to equip the station for actual work. Dr. E. H. Jen-
kins, the present director of the Connecticut Station,
and Dr. H. P. Armsby, formerly director of the Penn-
sylvania Station and now director of the Pennsylvania
Bureau of Animal Nutrition, both of whom had been
trained in agricultural chemistry by Professor John-
son, constituted at first the entire staff of the station,
which — established on the basis of Professor John-
son's own previous work — soon became the model
upon which other states patterned the experiment sta-
tions successively founded. It is surprising to see
how well the standards set in 1877 by the Connecticut
Station have been adhered to through the growth of
our experiment stations into a national system, em-
bracing the many varied agricultural interests not only
of the United States, but of our arctic and tropical
territories as well. Concerning the origin of these
standards, it may be noted that twelve years later,
when those interested in the development of experi-
ment stations began to inquire concerning the influ-
ences which had surrounded their inception and evo-
lution. Professor Johnson filed this memorandum
among his papers :

STATE EXPERIMENT STATION 203

This station was the first permanent organization of the
kind in America, and has largely grown out of the influence
exerted by Professor John Pitkin Norton, a pupil of Johnston
in Edinburgh and of Mulder in Utrecht, who in the year
1846 became Professor of Scientific Agriculture in Yale Col-
lege and by his teachings and writings excited great interest
in Agricultural Science and prepared the way for the appli-
cation of scientific methods and results to improving our
agriculture.— S. W. J. Oct. 1889.

In a letter written December 21, 1877; Professor
Johnson said, "This station was obliged to go into
operation and work three months before it received
anything from the State, and now has not enough to
pay its liabilities, and will not have for three months
to come." The first six months' work, however, com-
prised: A continuation of the fertilizer w^ork which
Professor Johnson had previously performed for the
Board of Agriculture; a series of examinations of
seeds, made in a manner to establish their purity and
vitality; the commencement of an investigation of the
nutritive value of feeding-stuffs for cattle, in connec-
tion wdth which Professor Johnson review^ed at
length — in his first '* Report of Director" — a system
of exclusive corn-meal feeding of cattle in winter prac-
ticed by Mr. Linus W. Miller, pointing out the neces-
sity of consideration of all factors involved in such
problems and the unsafeness of ordinary criteria, and
calling attention to the fact that ''the whole subject
[of cattle feedinq*] requires to be w^orked up care-

• The first analyses of maize fodder, made in this country according
to modern approved methods, were those executed in the SheflSeld Labora-
tory in 1869 by Professor W. O. Atwater, who was then studying with
Professor Johnson and who presented the results of this work as a thesis
for his doctor's degree iu June of that year.

204 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

fully, as it only can be with the methods and appliances
of a fully equipped experiment station." A careful
study of the relation of the soil to water was also
begun during this period, and in the first Report, pub-
licity was given to a correspondence upon environ-
ment favorable and unfavorable to the development of
potato-rot and skin-crack, and to an account of the
conditions under which the sugar-beet may be success-
fully raised.

The first bulletin issued by the station under Pro-
fessor Johnson was in his own handwriting. It was
made by aid of Edison's electric pen and duplicating
press, and bears date of August 18, 1877. Copies of this
and other early bulletins were sent to the newspapers
of the state with the request that they be published
for the information of readers, and to the secretaries
of the agricultural societies and farmers' clubs of
the state — ^these being the only mediums through
which the station could place its publications in the
hands of the farmers.

Direct correspondence regarding specific problems
of individual farmers was necessarily a large part of
the work of the newly established station. This has
now long been superseded by the present system of
bulletins prepared by specialists, printed in generous-
sized editions and freely sent to all interested; but in
the early years of the Connecticut Station, this field
was covered by Professor Johnson's personal letters
in response to inquiries on a vast range of subjects.
Concerning this part of the work he wrote at the end
of the first six months :

A not inconsiderable correspondence has necessarily been
attended to. This has consisted not only in the exchange of

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fully, as it only caii I'e with the methods aii<i applianc<is
of a fully equipped experiment station." A careful
study j{ the relation of the soil to water was also
he.inni during this period, and in the first Report, pub-
licity was given to a eorrespondcu(!e iipon emiron
ment favorable and unfavorable to the development of
potato-rot and skin-crack, and to an account of the
conditions under which the sugar-beet may be success-
fully raised.

Tlie first bulletin issued by the station under Pro-
fessor Johnson Vias in his own handwriting. It was
made by aid of Edison's electric pen and duplicating
press, and bears date of August 18, .1877. Copies of this
and other early bulletins were sent to the newspapers
of the state AsiiJi the request that {\wy be ]jublished
for the miorl^Mlf^'^A^Ml^t^^^^ ^- iJl^^IfeSretaries
of the agricuiti^T-^l t<9[^4'i4x>it>ail^4flaisin9!C['za' clubs of
the state — these being the only mediums tlirough
vrhich the station could place its publications in the
hands of the farmers.

Direct correspondence regarding? specific problems
of individual fanners was necessarily a large part of
the work of the newly established station. This has
now long been superseded by the present system of
bulletins prepared by specialists, printed in generous-
sized editions and freely sent to all interested; but w
the early years of the Connecticut Station, this field
was covered by Professor Johnson's personal letters
iii response to inquiries on a vast range of subje<!ts.
Concerning this part of the work he wrote at the end
of the first six months:

A not incoTisiderable correspondence has necessarily }>een
attf ndcvl to This has consisted not only in the exchange oi

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STATE EXPERIMENT STATION 205

letters on current business, but also in response to inquiries
respecting the organization and work of the station that have
come from Boards of agriculture, official committees and
interested individuals in eight other states, and in answers to
a great variety of questions on the value or use of fertilizers
and kindred topics from practical farmers in this state not
only, but in many others, from Maine to Texas.

It was undoubtedly through this phase of his work
that Professor Johnson came to see so clearly the real
needs of the country and how the stations should be
developed to meet them.

For five years the station was housed in rooms
loaned by the governing board of the Sheffield Scien-
tific School. In spite of small means and cramped
quarters, the institution was able to demonstrate its
usefulness. Creditable beginnings were made in sev-
eral lines of research. Professor Johnson inspired
these and aided in their prosecution; he also devoted
much skill and ingenuity to developing and perfecting
laboratory methods of analysis, many of which are
standard processes today.

In 1882, the station moved into a house of its own,
with an annual appropriation increased to eight thou-
sand dollars; and, under a new fertilizer law, the
license fees paid by all dealers in fertilizers in the
state also became a part of its income.

In 1887, the passage by Congress of a bill popularly
known as the Hatch act granted Federal funds to the
State experiment stations, and provided for a central
advisory bureau under the control of the Department
of Agriculture. The first ''object and duty" of an
experiment station mentioned in the Hatch act is "to
conduct original researches or verify experiments on

206 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

the physiology of plants and animals"; and the first
use made by the Connecticut Station of income from
the Hatch fund was to establish a new department for
the investigation of fungous diseases of plants. Dr.
Roland Thaxter (who resigned after three years' ser-
vice to accept a professorship in Harvard) was the
first mycologist in charge of this department. During
his term of office he identified and described the
organism causing potato-scab — Oospora Scabies —
which had long been uncertain and a subject of con-
troversy. His successors in the department have
maintained the high standard set at its inception. In
1889, at Professor Johnson's desire, Dr. Thomas B.
Osborne, a member of the station staff, undertook a
study of the nitrogenous matters contained in the
kernels of oats. This investigation also was supported
by the income of the Hatch fund. It proved to be the
beginning of a sustained research in protein chemistry
which has developed — in a laboratory of the Connec-
ticut Station — without interruption up to the present
time. Lately, through aid from the Adams fund, and
in cooperation with the Carnegie Institution of Wash-
ington and with the Sheffield Scientific School of Yale
University, the scope of this work has been extended
to include many important problems of nutrition and
growth.

While gathering together, in the autumn of 1871,
material for his essay on soil exhaustion and rotation
of crops. Professor Johnson was so impressed by the
unsatisfactory and meager data available as a basis
for the estimation of nutritive elements removed from
the soil by the growth of tobacco, that he omitted all
reference to this crop of so great importance to the

STATE EXPERIMENT STATION 207

farmers of the Connecticut Valley. He then set about
an investigation of New England tobacco, which is
recorded in his ** Report on Tobacco" made in May
1873, to the Connecticut Board of Agriculture; it com-
prised analyses of the ash of the tobacco leaf of the
Connecticut Valley and a discussion of the require-
ments of the tobacco crop. In 1891, he directed the
energies of a part of the station force to a continua-
tion of this investigation, in the field and in the labora-
tory. The educational value of his initial work on
tobacco is indicated by the formation, in 1892, of the
Connecticut Tobacco Experiment Association, com-
prised of tobacco growers who formed a joint stock
company * ' for the purpose of conducting and carrying
on the business of an experiment in the culture and
cure of tobacco ... in connection \\dth and under the
supervision of the Connecticut Agricultural Experi-
ment Station." The association at once purchased a
suitable plot of tobacco land, and erected a barn to hold
the crop, and a scheme for five years ' experimentation
was adopted. Experimentation on tobacco has ever
since been regularly carried on by the Connecticut
Station under the personal supervision of Dr. Jenkins,
who, first as vice-director and then as director of the
station, has guided the expansion of this work until
it has become as essential to the tobacco industry as
is the station's fertilizer work in the operations of the
non-specializing farmer.

When a good beginning had been made and Profes-
sor Johnson felt reasonably assured of a future for
the tobacco experiments, he turned his attention to
the establishment of a horticultural department. This
problem was worked out in his accustomed simple

208 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

method. He did not wait for popular demand for the
service he proposed to render, he was not unduly-
troubled as to how or whence its support should be
forthcoming. He laid a foundation, concerning him-
self chiefly with the all-important right beginning, and
left the outcome to the future, convinced that once
the work had demonstrated its own value and utility,
support would follow as a matter of course. The
coming — as horticulturist — of Dr. Britton, the present
state entomologist, to the Connecticut Station in 1894,
marks the commencement of another phase of its activ-
ity. Today, we in Connecticut, as in all other states,
can freely obtain advice or help in combating the ever-
present foes of our orchards and gardens; warnings
are given us of the coming of destructive insects,
methods for their control or extermination are pub-
lished broadcast; preventive spraying of trees is the
rule, not the exception; and much accurate informa-
tion upon local horticultural questions is gained
through scientifi.c investigation and widely spread by
means of station bulletins — and only twenty years
ago, all this was not !

In 1894, Professor Johnson prepared a general food
law which, excepting the law in force in Massachusetts
upon which it was largely modeled, was practically the
first effort at food legislation in this country. This
law, when presented to the Connecticut Legislature,
was passed at once by the House but was almost unani-
mously defeated in the conservative Senate. When,
in 1895, an attempt was made to pass a special lard
law, on the ground that it was impossible for honest
manufacturers to meet the competition of Chicago
packers of adulterated lard, the Legislature decided

STATE EXPERBIENT STATION 209

to enact no more special laws, but a general law cover-
ing all food products. The law prepared by Professor
Johnson and rejected the preceding year was accord-
ingly taken from the archives and passed with scarcely
any opposition. This law remained in force until
1907, when it was supplanted by the present law based
on the Federal Act which, in the opinion of those in
the state best fitted to judge, has not proved its
superior effectiveness.

Under the individualistic direction of Professor
Johnson, the Connecticut Station made most signifi-
cant demonstrations of possibilities in various lines of
research, some even in fields where practical returns
appeared very remote. His later life was as marked
by wise progressiveness and freedom from the
prejudices acquired through habit as his early
years had been by the common-sense conservatism
more usually associated with mature years and
experience. This happy constitution of mind enabled
him to keep in sympathetic touch with the progress
of events around him after ill health prevented
participation in them.

Professor Johnson's earliest expectation was first
to develop agricultural schools and colleges in this
country; at that time his belief was that experiment
stations would grow naturally out of them and, while,
perhaps not necessarily an adjunct, would at least be
closely related to some teaching foundation. All stu-
dents in the agricultural course of the Connecticut Col-
lege of Agriculture and the Mechanic Arts (Sheffield
Scientific School) came under his instruction and
observation. This institution fitted men to teach and

210 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

advise the agriculturist. These men were qualified
to investigate and to administer ; they have held almost
without exception positions of influence, carrying on
and extending studies begun under Professor John-
son's tuition. But the student desiring to become a
trained agriculturist was infrequent. He who wished
to equip himself for a business career in agriculture,
who looked forward to attacking successfully the prob-
lems sure to arise in a new profession, to the creation
and development of agricultural resources, was a
rarity.

Yet this professional agriculturist, trained in sci-
ence, employed not in teaching but in the business
of agriculture, was — so felt Professor Johnson — the
indispensable instrument for the agricultural salvation
of our country. After years of experience as a teacher,
he came to the conclusion that scientific education of
the agriculturist must begin elsewhere than in schools
and colleges, that before these could reach the full
measure of their efficiency, the agricultural stations
must break the ground. That accomplished, from a
constituency educated to use and appreciate the sta-
tion would come men fitted to study and conduct prac-
tical scientific agriculture. Acting upon this mature
conviction, he used the influence of his position as
professor of agricultural chemistry in the Sheffield
Scientific School to further in every possible way the
cause of the agricultural station, which was finally
established in Connecticut largely through his efforts
and in response to his oft-repeated and urgent
entreaty — an entreaty so well expressed in his widely
circulated appeal written in 1874 :

To say that the farmers of Connecticut and of our entire

STATE EXPERIMENT STATION 211

country urgently need the aid and stimulus of the Experiment
Stations is to make a most evident assertion. Our Agricul-
tural Colleges have but few agricultural students. — The reason
lies mainly in the fact that our intellectual activity has the
habit of running in other than agricultural channels. To
bring our farmers in direct and profitable contact with the
results of science, to bring science into active and visible
cooperation with the toils and plans of the farm, would
redound to the eminent advantage of both. The Experiment
Station, I cannot doubt, is to be this point of contact, the
focus of this cooperation.

The quarter century, now just completed, of our
national system of agricultural stations witnesses the
fulfilment of Professor Johnson's forecast made
nearly forty years ago, and now realized even beyond
his serenely confident expectation. The proved use-
fulness in Connecticut of a few fertilizer analyses
accurately made and their results intelligently used
in 1857, was largely instrumental in the establishment
in 1887 of an agricultural station in every state and
territory. The educational stimulus of these sta-
tions has reacted on the agricultural community and
informed the public at large, so that today there is
no dearth of eager students in our agricultural col-
leges. These, with high standards and ample facili-
ties, are now training every year thousands of able,
ambitious men to meet most exacting professional
requirements, not as teachers only, but largely as
workers in the business world, producers of our na-
tional wealth. Surely a wonderful result in so short a
period is this outcome of efforts in which Professor
Johnson bore a sustained part.

212 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

When, in March 1877, the bill passed which estab-
lished the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Sta-
tion as a State institution, many letters came from
friends who had watched and sympathized with Pro-
fessor Johnson's life work. On April 7, Mr. Luther
H. Tucker wrote:

Accept my congratulations on the success of your efforts
thus far and their prospect of usefulness in the future.

Mr. Goodale closed a letter of this period with the
words :

I was rejoiced to learn from the papers that the Experi-
ment Station is to go to New Haven and be under your
direction. I trust there is no mistake about it. Tardy justice
and right doing is better than postponement forever or till too
late.

Professor Storer wrote:

Jamaica Plain, Mass., 19 Apr. 1877.

My dear Johnson : — I congratulate you most heartily !
Occasionally as now, the Eternal Fitness of Things is vindi-
cated, and it is a real pleasure to witness the event.

I have never had the least knowledge of the ins and outs of
your Conn. Agric. politics, but have sworn some frequently
at what seemed to be evidences that the Patriarch of our Sci.
Agric. might probably be cheated out of his birthright and
workright. Long ago I made a memorandum of questions to
be asked of you concerning your attitude and position in re
Agric. Station. . . .

Pray come on when you can — (and tell me among other
things why you esteem maize grain to be ''too nitrogenous"
as you have said in Amer. Jr. Sci.). Yrs. sincerely,

F. H. Storer.

STATE EXPERIMENT STATION 213

Immediately upon Professor Johnson's appoint-
ment as director, came a pleasant note from his old
pupil and assistant, Dr. Jenkins:

Middletown, Conn., April 12, 1877.

My dear Professor: — I congratulate you, and the farmers
of the State and myself too, that the Station has passed into
your immediate control, where I have felt that it rightfully
belonged from the first. I hope you will find its management
a pleasure and not too great a burden. If the Board of Con-
trol and yourself conclude to ask me to assist in carrying out
the work of the Station, please reckon on my heartiest interest
and cooperation with all your plans. . . . Very sincerely
yours, E. H. Jenkins.

The modest equipment of the new institution and
the helpful attitude of its friends appear in this
note, written October 6, 1877, by Professor Johnson
to a staunch supporter of the Station, who was also a
dealer in horticultural supplies :

Would you kindly permit Mr. Jenkins to use a straw or
stalk cutter in your store to reduce to short bits some samples
of corn-fodder sent me by T. S. Gold, Sec'y-B'd of Ag., for
analysis? Having on a former occasion been favored in this
way, I am encouraged to ask again !

The letters of Professor Johnson which follow —
with the exception of those written to Professor Storer,
Dr. Jenkins, Dr. Britton and to the Commissioner of
Agriculture — are taken from copy-books of the Con-
necticut Station. They are in Professor Johnson's
own handwriting and are of interest either through
their contents or because of the time at which tiiey
were written. They require little or no comment:

214 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

(S. W. J. TO J. O.)

[October 10, 1877] — I regret to differ from yourself and
from Mr, Lawes and Dr. Liebig on so important a subject
[the valuation of fertilizers]. To me the whole subject ap-
pears to be very simple. The valuation merely touches the
question of price in market, as far as that depends upon the
trade-value of ingredients. If a fertilizer has or is thought
to have a value beyond this, depending upon some secret of
compounding, or established reputation, there is no objection
to those who believe in such superiority paying for it, but for
those who have no faith in, or do not care to pay for such
advantages, the "valuation business" is a simple and safe
guide to purchase by. Such is the record of twenty years in
this State. Honest dealers do not complain of it, but support
it heartily, because it stops the occupation of quacks and
swindlers and establishes confidence between buyer and seller.

"We use great care in securing samples that accurately
represent the articles we investigate, and our analyses are
invariably duplicated so that mistake is made well-nigh im-
possible. On the other hand our dealers and manufacturers
(in the State) are very careful to know what they offer and
to offer only that which sustains a good reputation. The
valuation business would be of no use here were all the fertili-
zers, so-called, that come into our market made honestly and
intelligently. The fact that parties destitute of one or both
these standard virtues seek custom in this State renders the
valuation business a necessity, and I believe that with us it
is an advantage to all concerned. . . . Yours most truly,

S. W. Johnson.

(S. W. J. TO — L.)

[October 10, 1877] — I am certain that although the valua-
tion system may not always have been justly applied, it always
may he, and that consumers cannot spare it. —

STATE EXPERIMENT STATION 215

(A. S. TO S. W. J.)

Verehrter obwohl noch ungesehener Freund ! Am 15 Sept.
V. J. wurde bei der 25 jahrigen Feier der I Deutschen Ver-
suchsstation zu Moeckem Wolff u. mir ein Album der inter-
nationalen Agriculturchemiker verehrt, wofiir ich eben den-
selben durch meine alte Visage meinen Dank ausgesproehen
habe. Auch Sie gehoren zu diesen, daher werden Sie sich
nicht weigern, ihr Herberge und Gastrecht in Ihrem Home
zu gewahren; Dank Ihren oft wiederholten Reports iiber
Ihre riistige Thatigkeit bin ich wenigstens in Ihrem scientifical
und Berufs-Home zu Hause und verfolge das frische Leben
Ihrer Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station rait leb-
haftem und sympathischem Interesse. Moge Ihnen noch lange
ein erfolgreiches Wirken auf diesem Felde beschieden sein!
Das meinige naht sich dem Feierabende.

Mit aufrichtiger collegialischer Freundschaft

der Ihrige

A. Stoeckhardt.
Tharandt, 28. 3. 78

(F. H. S. TO S. W. J.)

26 Apr. 1878.

Dear Johnson, — I schame raich not a little that I haven't
written long ago to commend your report and to acknowl-
edge your note. ... I noted (even before you wrote) what
you say of Miller's cows vs. meal. 'Tis just what I would
have said myself. I don't believe the beggar — any more than
that there is some fire under the smoke — but he clearly has
the "right of way," and we are bound to test his notion by
fair and well intentioned exp.

I congratulate you on the team you have to drive in that
Exp. Station. There are many things in the hierarchical
arrangement and the disbursing of salaries in your plan that
I can't get along with, for they seem to me inconsistent with

216 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

the eternal fitness of things ; but that you have a well manned
ship under your feet is patent to all men,
Mrs. Storer sends her best wishes, and I am

yrs ever

F. H. Storer.

(S. W.J. TO J. B. 0.)

[In regard to strawberry rust.] August 21, 1878 — Brewer
agrees with me in the opinion that it is probably a fungus
which attacks them, and if so, we are not competent to study
it. Prof. W. G. Farlow of Cambridge, Mass., is the single
person in the U. S. who is fully adequate to the investigation.
I shall write to him by this mail to learn what he knows about
it and what he can do about it.

(S. W. J. TO W. G. F.)

Nov. 27th, 1878.

My dear Sir; — ^Yours of 25th is rec'd. Accept my thanks
in behalf of our Agriculture for your kind service. ... I find
the fungus, now, described and figured in Sorauer's Hand-
buch der Pflanzen Krankheiten, but failed to find it there
when Olcott first brought it to my notice, because the index
does not contain the word Erdheere. Very truly yours,

S. W. Johnson.

(S.W.J. TO P.M. A.)

Feb'y 28th, 1879.

Dear Sir : — The cranberries are rec 'd as well as your postal.
I regret that I can see no way in which a chemical exami-
nation would be of service. The scald or blight is most prob-
ably a fungus, and the careful microscopic study of the fungus
and cranberry at the bogs in summer by a skilled specialist
is doubtless the way to follow in order to know and possibly
circumvent the rot. Undoubtedly chemical analysis of the two
lots sent would show differences. So would two samples of

STATE EXPERIMENT STATION 217

either lot, if the large and small berries were examined sepa-
rately. Therefore the differences that would appear would not
of necessity stand connected with the rot, or at least would
throw no light on the cause of the difficulty or its remedy. In
no ease to my knowledge has any plant-disease of the nature
of a rot been found to be caused by a deficiency of some one
or more elements in the soil or plant.

I will write to Dr. Farlow, — our best fungologist and per-
haps almost the only American who has thoroughly studied
microscopic fungi — to learn if he knows anything about the
matter. Yours very truly, S. W. Johnson.

(S. W. J. TO W. E. P.)

July 7, 1879.

My dear Sir: — I have carefully read and considered the
draft of a bill you sent me. From all I have been able to
learn of the methods of fertilizer control adopted in Europe
and this country, 1 am convinced that the system of Inspec-
tion is the one least advantageous to the honest farmers and
dealers and most advantageous to the dishonest dealer and the
stealing politicians.

I believe the Experiment Station system as we have it in
Connecticut, if actively supported by the farmers, is the best
in immediate results and is a system whose incidental benefits
are of incalculable advantage.

I recommend you to stand by the Experiment Station and
help it to become what it ought to be. I fear your scheme of
replacing the Expt. Station by Inspection will work harm
to the agriculture of your State. . . .

(S. W. J. TO G. T.)

December 4, 1879.

. . . The Connecticut System does not ensure that no

spurious or fraudulent fertilizers are sold or bought in the

State, but it gives the farmers the means of ascertaining the

composition and value of all fertilizers, feeding stuffs, etc.,

218 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

that are offered to them, without cost beyond the expense of
taking and sending a sample. The frequent bulletins give
wide publicity to the results of analyses, and the result is that
fertilizers that are not commercially worth what they cost,
or nearly so, are either entirely out of the Conn, market, or
if they appear remain but a short time.

The State Law respecting fertilizers has, so far as I can
learn, no effect beyond securing a label and "analysis" of
some sort attached to each package of fertilizer. The law
is not precise enough in its terms to be of any use otherwise,
and no prosecutions or complaints have ever been made under
it.

The Exp. Station, therefore, with the cooperation of a
number of active farmers and Farmers' clubs, accomplishes
whatever results we have, independently of any special legis-
lation or inspection. Manufacturers in the State and many
without who sell their wares here, so far as I know, are pleased
with the operations of the Station; for, as they say, it prac-
tically excludes inferior goods from our markets, and secures
an impartial verdict on the merits of each article sold. The
Station makes no prosecution of the dealers in poor fertilizers,
it simply publishes the character of their goods, and public
opinion inflicts due punishment.

The cost of the Station as now carried on is $5000 yearly.
The rooms occupied by it are furnished rent-free by the S. S.
School. The Station is simply a chemical laboratory and cor-
respondence office. It now employs three chemists and a
Director, has no grounds and no facilities for any but labora-
tory experiments. . . . Yours very truly, S. W. Johnson.

(S. W. J. TO F. H. S.)

New Haven, Ct., Dec. 15th, 1879.

My dear Storer, — ... I am most profoundly sorry at the
state of Bussey in general and ... in particular. As to
the questions — I only know what I got or rather I know

STATE EXPERIMENT STATION 219

nothing beyond that. I can't certainly say whether it was
$35. per column that I first worked for, for the Tribune, or
not, but I think it was that. I struck for $50. per column, had
it for 6 mos, then declined to go on. That was large pay I
suppose, for the paper, but my literary spigot has such a
stricture that I couldn't dribble anyway for the press, in
addition to my other work. I have no idea what C. gets.
I don 't know who shines in the N. Y. Sun. I now don 't read
or see the ag. columns of any of the N. Y. or other daily
papers. I haven't strength or time.

The Co. Gent., Albany, pays me $5.00 per column and I
have a sort of feeling that its column is not so consumptive,
relatively, of MSS. as the Tribune e. g., but I don't now recall
the result of any close comparison. I think that per column
is the usual mode of reckoning, and by that they mean as solid
matter as they can get, generally.

I shall at once see if I can't suggest to some good parties
that they may get you to write for their papers, etc. Yours
most faithfully, S. W. Johnson.

This letter of Professor Storer is an instance of
early use of the typewriter.

Jamaica Plain, April 3, 1880.

My dear Johnson: — Behold how the virtuous man consid-
ereth the eyes of his friend and spelleth out his little sermon !
To wit : — I have had a great deal of pleasure in reading your
report, and I wish to bear the fact in upon you, and upon
Drs. Jenkins and Armsby also. I wish you would make my
compliments to both these gentlemen. Jenkins' list of fodder
analyses and Armsby 's article on amids are not only excellent
in themselves, but they are timely. It isn't often that fate
permits us to be thus instant in season.

Your question of American hay vs. European becomes inter-
esting, does it not? I fancy we must look to Botany for its
solution. You remember, I suppose, that some twenty years

220 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

ago, at a time of drought in England, one of the Steamship
Cos. took American hay to fill up their ships, on their own
speculation, and could only dispose of it at a heavy loss in
London and Liverpool. The talk was then that our hay was
too coarse to suit the English eye, but it looks now as if J. B. 's
"prejudice" was not so dunderheaded as it then seemed. I
have always wondered at the difference between the require-
ments of our hay markets and those of England. It is not so
strange, perhaps, that coarse hay commands a higher price
than fine here, so long as danthonia is abundant, but it is
curious that we despise really good fine hay when the English
will buy no other. Ten years ago I tried to get one of our
agricultural societies to import merchantable samples of Eng-
lish hay to be exhibited at our cattle fairs, but nothing ever
came of the idea.

By the way, — I speak with reservation since I have never

seen the man, — but it did seem to me that you handle

too gently; or rather that you pat him much too gently on
the back. Thought needs to be given to the devising of meth-
ods of allaying the bumptiousness of some of our practical
men — and I am clear that praise (no matter how damnably
"faint" it may be) is not a means to this end. It needs to
be shown that for successful research something more than
good intentions is necessary; viz, technical training, modesty
of thought, and an open mind.

I am glad you hold your "luff" in respect to the conven-
tional method of stating analyses of fodder. There is no sense
in trying to refine this thing beyond the possibly practical.
We are hardly more ripe than Einhof and Sprengel were for
the complete analysis of rough fodders, and there is a sem-
blance of (let us say ignorance) in holding up the

names of too many chemicals to the gaze of the great and
unsoaked public. It is bad enough to have to report the ' ' fat ' '
of hay as if it were really oil.

I am glad, too, to see you hold off from Kiihn 's reactionary

STATE EXPERIMENT STATION 221

movement in the last Landwirth Kalender. There is some-
thing too absurd in his effort to stampede us, at this day and
hour, into taking the back track. What we really need is a
critical sifting of all the analyses with the view of discover-
ing the best possible means, in the light of existing knowl-
edge. The question is one of chemistry far more than of
arithmetic. There are manifold instances of "maxima" and
"minima" which could be thrown out at once, for cause. I
see, for example, that Jenkins has roped in a Bussey analysis
of dead fresh- meadow grass, in getting his average for swale
hay. I wouldn't have done it. Nor would I have said {i.e.
note on page 150) that swale hay contains 14.3 per cent of
water. It might be even questioned whether my hand samples
of Carex belong in this particular "addition," though they
do show the composition of early cut hay and point to what
is possible in practice.

On page 96, the line relating to "oxen at rest," dele the last
dot, period, decimal point, or whatever you call it. It darkens
counsel. The other misprint there concealed this one, accord-
ing to "the simultaneous contrast of colors"?

I don't remember having expressed my gratitude for your
kind offices in recommending me to Mr. Carman. If I didn't
(or if I did) let me do so now. I find him extremely civil
and disposed to squareness. Yours faithfully, F. H. Storer.

(S. W. J. ToJ. TH.)

May 27th, 1880.
Dear Sir, — Your proposal for a convention of agricultural
chemists to agree upon methods of fertilizer analysis for
common use, is in my opinion a very timely suggestion and
I am entirely in favor of it. As to time and place of meeting,
would it not be well to make them co-incident with some
gathering at which many of those interested would be likely
to be present, — say the annual meeting of the Am. Association
for the Advancement of Science, held at Boston or Cambridge
in August?

222 LETTEE-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

I would like to add to the list you give : Prof. F. H. Storer,
Bussey Institution, Jamaica Plain, Mass. ; Dr. Ledoux, New
York City; Dr. E. H. Jenkins, New Haven, Conn.; Dr. H. P.
Armsby, New Haven, Conn. ; Mr. A. T, Neale, chemist to the
New Jersey Ag. Exp, Station — all experienced fertilizer ana-
lysts. The discussion of the subject would be more satis-
factory if there were time beforehand for some experimental
work. I have some investigations in progress which can
hardly be complete early in July, but might be late in August.
... I would add the names of Prof. G. C. Caldwell, Cornell
University, Ithaca, New York ; Prof. Albert Chester, Hamilton
College, Clinton, Oneida Co., N. Y. ; Prof. A. Aubert, Maine
Ag. College, Orono, Me. Very truly yours, S. W. Johnson.

(S. W. J. TO Professor G. C. Caldwell, Director of
Cornell Experiment Station.)

Sep. 10th, 1880.

My dear Caldwell, — Dr. Charles U. Shepard, Jr., suggests
that a meeting of the members of the committee appointed at
Boston, viz., yourself, himself, Collier and Atwater be held
for between Sep. 15 and 30th. This would be very profitable
no doubt, and I write to ask you if you could come to New
Haven (where I will bed and board you) and at what time.
If you cannot come, that fact will decide me what next best
thing to do. I should like the meeting held nearer the 15th
than the 30th, Dr. Shepard has to go to So, Car. soon after
the 30th.

But if you can come any time between these dates, let me
know. Yours most truly, S. W. Johnson.

(S. W, J, TO Professor George H, Cook, Director of

New Jersey Experiment Station,)

December 27th, 1880,

My dear Sir, — It has been repeatedly on my mind that some
conference in respect to trade-values of fertilizers is desir-

STATE EXPERIMENT STATION 223

able. I have, however, not found the occasion and having
always to work in haste, have come this year to write and
print my revision of trade-values without conference with
others. I enclose you printer's proof of my conclusions from
experience of 1880. . . . Please communicate your ideas as
to my conclusions. Doubtless with more data I should be led
to different results, although I believe that my conclusions
are substantially correct and will be justified by the future
as they have been by the past year 's facts ! Yours very truly,

S. W. Johnson.
I had nearly forgotten to recur to the subject of a meeting
or of correspondence with Dr. Goessmann and some one in
Pa. — For me it is, I fear, too late this year, as I must give the
printer my final revise in a very few days.

(S. W. J. TO C. L. D.)

Feb. 21, 1881.

Dear Sir, — I first learned, incidentally, on Saturday last
that the bill to which you refer was before the Legislature.
My first impressions are unfavorable to that sort of Legisla-
tion; if, however, adjacent States toll Conn, manufacturers,
it is in the nature of self-defence to reciprocate. I would be
glad of increase of Exp. Station Funds by any legitimate
method that meets the approbation of farmers and dealers in
the State. The proposed tax has this equitable feature that
it makes, or tends to make, those who use fertilizers pay for
the cost of having them suitably analyzed and thus kept rea-
sonable in price and of genuine and known quality. I will be
glad to appear before the committee. Yours, etc.

S. W. Johnson.

In a letter of May 5, 1881, Professor Johnson, again
referring to this fertilizer law, said:

Its adoption in this State was the result of a move on the
part of some of our fertilizer manufacturers, and was strongly
supported by some of the leading firms engaged in this State

224 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

in making and selling this class of goods. The object of the
law is to prevent the sale in the State of fraudulent or adul-
terated fertilizers, by requiring all who make or import (from
foreign countries) to put themselves, their agents and their
wares on record. Farmers in and out of the Legislature
favored the Act because its result has been elsewhere, and
must be here, to diminish the chances of their wasting their
money on inferior or worthless fertilizers. Manufacturers
and dealers favored it because the exclusion of worthless or
adulterated goods settles the market, establishes the confi-
dence of purchasers and thus benefits business.

(S.W. J. ToN.M. C.)

Dec. 6, 1881.

Dear Sir, — It is a difficult question you have put me —
very much like asking the cost of going to housekeeping ! The
list of apparatus and its cost — the kind and scale of labora-
tory fixtures and arrangements — will depend entirely on the
lines of research that it is proposed to undertake and on the
working force it is intended to employ. The chemist who is
to direct the work alone can foresee what will be wanted after
he has carefully considered what branches of investigation
shall be attempted.

The total outfit of the laboratory of this Station could prob-
ably be replaced for $2000. But if our means warranted
undertaking research in any generous sense $2000 could profit-
ably be spent in the arrangements for studying each of many
simple problems that are awaiting solution. Yours very truly,

S. W. Johnson.

(S. "W. J. TO Dr. C. a. Goessmann, Professor op Chemistry
IN Massachusetts Agricultural College, and Director
OF Massachusetts Experiment Station.)

Jan. 6th, 1882.
My dear Sir, — Dr. Cook and I would like to agree with you
on a scale of prices to use in valuing commercial fertilizers

STATE EXPERIMENT STATION 225

for the current year and future years. Boston, New York
and Philadelphia cannot differ much, and Mass., Conn, and
N. J. would probably be equally well served by a uniform
scale. What do you say to it? And when could we have a
meeting or exchange proposals so as to meet the spring trade ?

(E. W. HiLGARD, Professor of Agric. Chemistry in the

University of California, and Director of the

Experiment Station at Berkeley, to S. W. J.)

Berkeley, March 10, 1882.

My dear Sir, — I have rec'd, and read with intense relish,
your Experiment Station Report for 1881. You have done a
wonderful amount of work with your $5000; but it makes
one almost have the mad-itch to think of this pittance allot-
ted to such work as this, when millions are wasted, and
worse than wasted, in merely bolstering up old and new politi-
cal hacks, every year. I am beginning to feel aggressive on
the subject, and have put some of that feeling into an article
that will shortly appear in the Atlantic. If something
of a breeze can be raised on that basis, by a concerted move-
ment on the part of the Agr. College and Exp't Station men
and their appreciators, we all may be enabled to work to some
advantage, instead of gnawing our lips in disgust.

I have been forcibly struck with the contrast between the
line of work that is asked of you and that which comes to
me — it is exceedingly characteristic of the respective stages
of agr. development in the two regions, and curiously illus-
trative of the wisdom of our worthy commissioner at Wash-
ington, when he proposes to send some one to Europe to find
out what lines of ex. work ought to be done in experiment
stations! Quousque tandem — ?

I hope Sturtevant will make good use of his opportunities —
if he does what I expect of him, it will give a great lift to all
of us who are struggling to be enabled to do something!

226 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

When are you going to write that Vol. Ill — "How Crops
should be fed." The subject of manures is among the most
misty in the farmers' minds, and I wish you would save me
the trouble of writing it up myself ! Yours sincerely,

E. W. Hilgard.

(S. W. J. TO Sec. N. Y. State Ag. Soc.)

Feb. 14, 1883.

My dear Sir: — The N. J. Station and the State Inspector
of Fertilizers of Mass. joined with this Station last year in
adopting a scale of prices. Our meeting was held in Jan. and
we could not of course predict the very considerable fall in
price of nitrogen that was to occur, but, as stated on p. 23 of
report for 1882, we keep the values fixed throughout the year
for the sake of comparing the different fertilizers. The aver-
age retail prices during the year for nitrogen were — in nitrates
3 cts, for organic nitrogen 2 cts, and for sol. phos. acid 1 et,
per lb. less than our estimated prices. Most of the material
bought by farmers in the spring of 1882 was already manu-
factured or the stock thereof laid in during the fall or winter
before, and the decline was slow in affecting the retail market.

There will always be plenty of small reasons against fixing
an estimated price upon fertilizers, but there will always [he]
a preponderance of large reasons why it should be done in
the interests of consumers. Yours very truly,

S. W. Johnson.

(S. W. J. TO G. H. C.)

Feb. 16, 1883.

My dear Sir, — Yours in relation to meeting to decide upon
fertilizer prices is at hand. It was in my mind to confer with
you on the matter about these days. I have been rather
desirous to place the time as late as will do for two reasons:
1, that we may get as near the state of the spring markets
as possible so as not to find our reckoning ' ' left " by a change
in the markets. 2, in order to have the Station as far ad-

STATE EXPERIMENT STATION 227

vanced as may be in its laboratory arrangements at the time
of meeting, as I propose to entertain the delegations.

We have named March 1st as the date for opening our new
Laboratory, and we shall begin to open on or before that day
although some of our arrangements will not then be com-
plete. If early enough, I should prefer to put the meeting
on March 4th, as Saturday will, I suppose, suit Dr. Goess-
mann. Your season opens earlier than ours, and I prefer
you would name the day, whether in Feb'y or later, as ap-
pears best to you. Yours very truly, S. W. Johnson.

I am in favor of inviting Dr. Ford of Ohio, Sec 'y Chamber-
lain's chemist.

(S. W. J. TO H. S.)

Mar. 23, 1883.

My dear Sir, — I rec'd your letter of the 20th and was
summoned to Hartford the 21st to talk with the Ag. Com-
mittee. I was obliged to say there that I saw no simple and
safe way to carry out a stamp or tag law. I would gladly
favor an efficient law on that system, but don't feel that I
can develop or frame one in detail.

The Committee was not in full force and I cannot say what
their conclusions were, but I judged they favored no change
for 1883. If you can specify the details of a law, they and I
would be glad to have you do so. Yours very truly,

S. W. Johnson.

(S.W.J.TOJ.W. A.)

March 24, 1883.

My dear Sir, — I enclose Mr. Sedgewick's letter which you
sent to me. I have written him that I am unable to shape
a law, based on ton tax, that shall be simple and efficient, but
shall be glad to favor one if it can be suggested. It appears
to me that in any case the present law ought to be left un-

228 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

touched for a year. I believe that opposition to it will cease.

I omitted to say to you, as I intended, that we interpret

the present law in the under-

*'more than ten dollars per
ton, shall pay, etc. etc. an
analysis fee of ten dollars
for each of the fertilizing
ingredients contained or
claimed" etc.

scored passage in the most
liberal manner possible, viz.,
ten dollars each for nitrogen,
phos. acid and potash irre-
spective of the state or con-
dition in which they may be
present. This makes $30 the
highest charge possible. That ought to satisfy the "special
fertilizer" people. Yours very truly, S.W.Johnson.

(S. W. J. TO C. W. Dabney, Jr., Directob North Carolina
Experiment Station.)

October 6, 1883.

My dear Sir, — I cannot see why the time is not at hand
when a journal such as you propose may not be undertaken
with reasonable prospects of success. Your outline of its
scope, etc., is to my mind. I think it, however, of the in-
tensest importance that it have an Editor, that some one who
has both science and common sense shall be responsible for
the matter and the manner of its contents. Otherwise, it will
be likely to be given over to slop and padding, the two promi-
nent ingredients in American literature. The several depart-
ments might be separately edited, but it ought to be an
organism and not a pudding. In our stage of Ag. Expt.
there is need of a moderately large amount of judicious
criticism, and for that an Editor or Editors are needed.

Vast good would be accomplished by abundant abstracts
of valuable papers published abroad, and I for one should not
hesitate to "direct" the force under my charge to assist in
work of that sort, feeling that such use of State funds would
be for the highest possible good. Yours, etc.,

S. W. Johnson.

STATE EXPERIMENT STATION 229

(S. W. J. TO J. W. A.)

Nov. 17, 1883.

My dear Sir, — I have been hoping to hear from Mr. Sedge-
wick before writing to you. I have also been exceedingly busy
getting our new laboratory ready for the fertilizer work that
is coming in, and have had little opportunity to think about
the fertilizer Law.

The tag or stamp system I see no way of carrying out except
by appointing Inspectors and making a cumbersome and
costly machinery. I hear it intimated from creditable sources
that in Georgia the Inspection is suspected of not being
altogether above bribery, but I know nothing as to the facts.
The more complicated any system is made the more chances
perhaps of its being dishonestly administered. The Pennsyl-
vania system, viz. — taxing per ton sold, is simple, but the only
evidence of sales is the sworn statement of the manufac-
turer or dealer. That, it strikes me, is offering a premium to
dishonesty, and I should expect that dishonesty would get
the premium !

Sec'y Chamberlain of Ohio writes me that the plan there
in use works well and satisfies everybody. In Ohio the annual
tax is $20, here it is $10, $20, or $30 according to whether one,
two or three ingredients (nitrogen, phos. acid and potash)
are present in the goods.

Our present law is disliked by two classes, viz., the small
manufacturer and the maker of a large number of special
brands. As to the latter, I have heard it asserted by those
who claim to have been in the business, that orders for many
different "specials" are filled from the same heap, care being
taken that the Exp. Station shall be provided with carefully
compounded samples. This may be a libel, but it also may be
true! Our present law tends to check the multiplication of
brands or pretended brands, to reduce the work to be done
by the Station, and to suppress the nonsense employed to
humbug farmers.

230 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

How to relieve small dealers? — It might be enacted that
Grinders of Bones in Connecticut, instead of paying $20
analysis fee, should at option pay 50 cts. per ton for product
sold, provided they could satisfy the Board of Control (or
Executive Committee) of the Station as to the amount of
their sales. But making exceptions is troublesome business.
I should not favor any exceptions but for grinding Bone.
Making superphosphate on a small scale cannot be done so
cheaply, nor so well as on a large, — and after all the many
farmers and not the few small manufacturers are principally
to be considered.

The present law is very highly spoken of by all with whom
I have conversed whose interests are those of consumers of
fertilizers. I will send or bring you very soon suggestions
for amending the present law. Yours very truly,

S. W. Johnson.

(S. W. J. TO J. J. W.)

May 8th, 1884.

My dear Sir, — Prof. Brewer and Dr. Jenkins think I ought
to go next week to Atlanta, Ga., to attend a convention called
by the Commissioner of Agriculture of Georgia to discuss
methods of determining ' ' Reverted Phosphoric Acid. ' ' There
is a very unhappy muddle in this matter already and, with
your approval, I will prepare to go and see what can be done
to prevent things from getting still more mixed. Yours,

S. W. Johnson.

(S. W. J. TO R. B. W.)

June 3d, 1884.

Dear Sir, — In answer to yours of May 26th duly received,
would say that when the minutes of convention at Atlanta are
printed, the committee will elaborate plan of investigation and
notify the gentlemen willing to participate, yourself among
the rest.

STATE EXPERIMENT STATION 231

As to soil analyses, I am so blind as not to be able to see
much benefit in them as usually made. If you can find a
half dozen soils, more or less, which evidence a graded pro-
ductiveness, and can show any positive relations between com-
position and fertility, that would [be] a valuable result. My
friend Dr. E. W. Hilgard's methods (Ist Census Report on
Cotton Production of U. S.) appear to be most promising.
Dr. G. E. Moore's plan of mechanical analysis (see 10th Cen-
sus Report on Tobacco culture) is worthy of investigation.
I have long desired to do something in soil analysis but have
not yet been able to undertake any systematic and extended
work. What to do and where to stop in soil analysis are very
perplexing questions. Yours very truly, S. W. Johnson.

(S. W. J. TO A. D. G.)

March 27th, 1886.

Dear Sir, — In answer to yours of yesterday, I believe it
would be a great gain were : All our States to adopt one uni-
form Fertilizer Law; were all samples for official analysis
taken by honest experts; were all analyses made by uniform
(if good) methods. I also believe — that Experiment Stations
and Departments of Agriculture are more properly supported
by a general tax than by a special tax on manufacture of
fertilizers.

There are, however, two sides to all these questions. To
illustrate : —

1. The laws that now appear to work well in Georgia and
North Carolina would not apply in Connecticut.

2. The detriment caused by the imperfect sampling of
honest men or by the "cooked" samples of an occasional
rogue would be oflFset by danger of systematic fraud by
corrupt experts.

3. Uniformity in methods of analysis is no remedy for
bad methods or unskilful use of good ones.

232 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

4. That all manufacturers of Fertilizers do not, or have
not, regarded the exaction from them of a tax as oppressive
or unjust would appear from the facts that the first legisla-
tion of that kind in this State originated with a manufacturer
of fertilizers, and that fertilizer makers and dealers urged
the passage of the present law on the ground that it would
give steady occupation to honest manufacturers while, other-
wise, the frauds practised upon and feared by farmers tended
to unsettle the business. Yours very truly, S. W. Johnson.

(S. W. J. TO F. H, S., Acknowledging the Receipt of a New
Edition of Stoker's "Agriculture.")

New Haven, Conn., Mar. 26, 1887.

My dear Storer, — The book followed close on your note of
20th inst., and has infatuated me even as a love story tempo-
rarily (or permanently) crazes a damozel. I found it on
returning from a two days attendance on the law-making
power at Hartford, and though nearly tired out I sat up
0 'nights over it — at first reading some 100 pages with due
consideration, then as the fire got low and the head hot I
skimmed the pages — taking cold and waking up next morning
with congestion of the two valuable viscerae that secrete bile
and thought, from which I am happily recovered. Well, the
plot of the story pleases me and the details are worked up in
capital shape. I feel relieved by your book of a heavy sense
of unread and undigested literature — ^judicial decisions on
natural law — that needed codifying — I have the code now in
good shape !

To our ag. schools the book will be of the utmost value, and
the Exp. St. boom that is expected from the Hatch bill will
find within its covers both stimulant and tonic for the sober
workers, while those that have more zeal than sense will find
it healthfully sedative, it is to be hoped.

The only drawback I find is that I can't praise the work

STATE EXPERIMENT STATION 233

to my friends or think of the preface without fearing that you
have over-estimated the performance of — Yours most humbly,

S. W. Johnson.

(President Atherton op State College, Pennsylvania, to

S. W. J.)

State College, Centre Co., Pa. 9/16/1887.

My dear Sir, — You will see from the enclosed circular that
we are hoping for your presence at the Washington Conven-
tion, and I beg to repeat what I have already indicated, that
your inability, for any reason, to do so, will be a great dis-
appointment to us all. The stage now reached in Agricultural
Science seems to rae extremely critical and hopeful. Wise
counsels now may do much to coordinate and, at the same
time, inspire the work of investigation, throughout the entire
country; and we must look to you and other leaders in this
field, to give those counsels. I hope you will find it possible
to be present. If that should be out of the question, will you
not try to send a paper, even if only a short one. Faithfully
yrs, Geo. W. Atherton.

Professor Johnson, with collaboration of others,
prepared a list of books for station libraries, which is
referred to in the correspondence and was published
by the Department of Agriculture.

(G. H. C. TO S. W. J.)

New Brunswick, N. J., Dec. 22, 1887.

My dear Sir, — . . . All that I have heard from are looking
with interest for your list of ag. books. It must be a work of
considerable extent, and rather drudgery at that. If you
choose to get [an] amanuensis or some librarian who is used
to cataloguing books to help you in the work, I shall be glad to
help in seeing that the expense is paid. Hoping to see you
next week, I remain. Yours truly, Geo. H. Cook.

234 LETTEE-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

(F. H. S. TO S. W. J.)

182 Boylston St., Boston, 5 Jan. 1888.

Dear Johnson, — I submit a list for you to rend and tear.
Kick 'em out — fire them out (as the moderns say) — at your
sweet will. I have no feelings about them at all. One trouble
is that I don't know just what kind of an altitude you have
thrown your mind into. I think your list is an excellent one —
and of course you wish to keep within reasonable limits — but
I know that I wouldn't have voted for several of the titles of
your list and this fact emboldens me to make a longer list
than I would have done otherwise. I say, for example, "the
last edition of Mulder is a far worthier book than 'Col-
man' " — and so I write down Pierre! Anyway, I have
struck out many titles which I put down on a first rough list.
I would have been inclined e.g. to name several of the German
Journals of Physiology and books like Dana's and LeConte's
' ' Geologies ' ' and MacFarlane 's ' ' Geologist 's Travelling Hand-
book" and "Watt's "Diet. Chem. " Likewise some of the works
of the agricultural fathers, such as Thaer, Scheele and Black.

By the way, I have been wishing to say all summer how
much I was gratified by the notice of "Storer's Agric. " in
Science. I have felt in my bones all along that this notice
was written or ''inspired" by S. W. Johnson! and I had
thought that I could soon find out about it and so openly thank
him. Inasmuch as I haven't been able thus far to learn who
did write it, you will allow me to slop over sufficiently to say
that, whoever the artist was who drew the picture, I did and
do keenly appreciate the delicate shading which he put into
it. He started out with his pen much too full of ink, but
when he got to talking of the "difficulties of the subject" and
of "familiarity with the conditions of practice" (where a
tinker would have said familiarity with practice), I perceived
the hand of a master and was elated and "sot up."

N. B. You must send me a copy of the completed list ! !
Sincerely yours, F. H. Storer.

STATE EXPERIMENT STATION 235

(S. W. J. TO F. H. S.)

New Haven, Ct, Jan. 13, 1888.

My dear Storer, — I became duly possessed of your sending
of the 5th inst., and but for a heavy job of examination papers.
Station Report, proofs and other jobs of writing should have
thrown the arms of my soul around the neck of yours and
cried — evoel ahoy! prosit! na! or something in a "furrin"
tongue (badly spelled doubtless!) to express my delight in
such an east wind as your letter brought me from Bos-town.
I have put your titles all into my catalogue — a good number
of them were booked for it but had failed to get copied, but
a good number I owe to your suggestion.

The Science review of your "Agriculture" I did not write
nor do I positively know who did. I suppose it was Armsby.
I recommended him to Science to do their ag. Science for
them and he has a good head on him. Has just gone to direct
the Pa. State Ag. Exp. Station.

I had thought I might run on to Boston and see you during
the late holiday vacation — but "business" piled up and I
had to maintain the awful grind.

When you have an odd day and want a change, come and
stay with me at 54 Trumbull St. My wife and I, having
married off our little girl, are keeping house with Hanna
Anderson and the cat, and can keep you as snug and quiet
as could be desired. Yours faithfully, S. W. Johnson.

The wife says she would like to show you her grandson who
lords it over another ward of this city.

(Original Draft op Letter op S. W. J. to the U. S. Com-
missioner OP Agriculture.)

New Haven, Conn., Feb. 7, 1888.

My dear Sir, — Tn reference to your proposition to eliminate
or materially modify Prof. Comstock's list of books by sub-
mitting it to revision by the Entomological Division of the

236 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

U. S. Dept. of Ag., I have only to say that I have no objection
to any treatment of that list which Prof. Comstock will assent
to. It is his list, contributed in response to my request. He
must be consulted in regard to any modification of it.

I think I fully appreciate the situation — the issuing of the
List under the auspices and in the name of the Department —
but I see clearly that any course of logic that leads to the
conclusion that the entomological list should be submitted to
the Department-Entomologist for the oil of his consecration
applies with equal force to the chemical, botanical and other
lists which I have taken the trouble to prepare; and whose
publication by the Department is just as proper or improper
as that of the entomological list. But I do not think that
half as much fault will be found with the printing of Prof.
Comstock 's list as would be with any modification or suppres-
sion of it. I was asked to prepare the list not because I am
the one best able to do that work, but because at the juncture
I happened to be available. My name on that list and the
names of those whom I have credited as collaborators imply
no lack of ability on the part of the Department ofiicers to
do that job. Prof. Riley and his associates cannot reasonably
be expected to do all the entomological, nor Prof. Wiley and
his associates all the chemical work that is urgently needed in
this country. If any difficulty remains in your mind about
printing the list as it stands, please return it to me. I will
print it as a Bulletin of this Station under the Hatch Bill.
Yours very truly, S. W. Johnson.

(S. W. J. TO F. H. S.)

New Haven, Conn., Oct. 13, 1888.

My dear Storer, — Prof. Atwater has an appointment from
the U. S. Dept. of Agr. to take charge of some work anent
Exp. Stations and will soon call on you and explain it, and
ask your friendly advice and cooperation. I have promised
to help him as far as I am able, and I hope you may have time

STATE EXPERIMENT STATION 237

and will to hear him patiently and to give him your support
actively.

We latter-day Pharisees may have nearly come to the con-
clusion that nothing good can come out of Washington Naza-
reth, but the Voice crying in the Wilderness has not been
altogether unheard and the "convention" last year seemed
to me like a sort of star-led congress, a pilgrimage of the
Magi and of the prophets and seers, and [if] the wise men of
the East will lend a hand — may we not see the Hand of the
Lord and have opened to us the way of salvation ? I write in
parable if not hyperbole, yet reverently and with fear and
trembling lest with such signs and wonders in the heavens I
should be found unworthy to come up to the temple — because
of unbelief and hardness of heart !

I have, with others, favored Prof. Atwater's appointment
because he has the spirit of prophecy and appears to me to be
a chosen vessel. Doubtless you and I, could we undertake
everything, would do many things very differently from what
he would, but with his diversity of gifts he has the same
spirit and a splendid stock of muscle too, very essential, which
some of us have not. I shall pray for him when he enters the
lion's den, and may the Highest deliver him and build him
up. This script is not only to bespeak your favorable inter-
est in Atwater's mission, but to say good morrow and God-
speed to yourself.

Enjoyed Prof. J. P. Cooke and Mrs. Cooke's very pleasant
countenances for 3 weeks at Holderness, New Hampshire, in
July and August last. Ask them about that loveliest of
places ! Yours, S. W. Johnson.

In 1890, Professor Johnson published a new edition
of **How Crops Grow." Without his knowledge, his
portrait was included in the volume. He had con-
sented to the reproduction of his photograph in the
columns of an agricultural journal; the possibility of
this permission being extended without his sanction

238 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

to cover the book did not occur to Mm. A saving
sense of humor enabled him to meet this annoyance,
to which we owe several of the letters that follow:

(Dr. Peter Collier, Director of New York Experiment
Station, to S. W. J.)

Geneva, N. Y., Feby. 2nd, 1890.

My dear Professor Johnson, I come for two favors — I'm
always coming. 1st I wish a copy of "your book," as Liebig
called it, and your name sending it to one of your first-born
(I speak of Agriculture) and your most loving disciple. I
will gladly send for it to publishers, but I wish it from you.
I'm good for it. 2nd I wish you would consult with Brewer
and tell me of any good available men in any branch of
agricultural science. Afftly yours, Peter Collier.

(F. H. S. TO S. W. J.)

182 Boylston St., Boston, 10 April 1890.

Dear Johnson, — Hail ! Hail ! I — which is in no sense to be
translated Alle Hagel. Likewise the countenance of him ! ! !
which reminds me of Francis Parkman, Historian and Horti-
culturist.

After I have done myself the pleasure and profit of reading
the book I will write to you a note of veritable thanks. These
present lines are to acknowledge the reception of the new
edition of "H. C. G." and to congratulate the author as for
a man-child born again. Sincerely yours, F. H. Storer.

(S. W. J. TO F. H. S.)

New Haven, Conn., Apr. 12th, 1890.

My dear Storer, — I thought that countenance would draw
your fire. Well can you imagine that any body but a live
Yankee, and a Massachusetts man at that, should, would, or

STATE EXPERIMENT STATION 239

could make and put as frontispiece in another man's book
such a portrait, or any portrait of anybody, without the
author's consent or knowledge? That's the state of the case,
and after having that book concealed on my premises for
weeks, trying to make up my mind whether I should drink
hemlock or fire an explosive bullet into the carcass of my
enemy, I concluded I would fire the book at my friends and
take what fun there may be left in this life in looking on
while they wonder at the altitudes and profundities of an
author's vanity!

In a few copies I have sent over the sea I have carefully
excised that ornamental feature, for thus saith the Scripture
"If thy right hand offend thee" &c, but in this free country
I conclude to face the music and 'tend to my business. "When
I read in the Country Gentleman that "the present edition
is adorned with the portrait of the author," I said to myself —
there's one true friend! but what an ass he must conclude I
have grown to be ! !

Well the book will serve my classes of 1 to 4 students, and
as I grow old and ugly they may derive some pleasure at the
thought that they are not the only fellows who like caricatures.
I send you the two photos, which I sent the publisher to
insert in his "paper," and stop his importunity. Yours with
much love, S. W. Johnson.

(F. H. S. TO S. W. J.)

Boston 20 April 1890.

Dear Johnson, — I am very glad to have the photos, which
do most certainly much better represent than does the frontis-
piece the man as I have known him. I do not wonder that
your wrath was within you stirred both as to the matter and
the manner of your taking off. And yet, do you know ? That
picture in the book is not wholly to be deprecated. Unlike,
it is no doubt in many respects, — because inade<iuate; and in
some points perhaps it is displeasing because forsooth we

240 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

naturally wish to have a portrait truly represent its principal,
but it is not of the nature for caricature — not in the least!
It is a strong, resolute, intellectual face with chin and nose
and forehead very much comme il faut. All the trouble is
that the sensitized plate happened to catch such a strong
impression of brain and jaw, as emanations from these
weighty organs impinged upon it, that no sufficient room was
left for the depiction of certain delicate traits which would
have imparted the natural and proper flavor of Gemiithlich-
keit.

I wish I could send you photographs of my own personality.
I haven't had any in my possession for something like 30
years, and I am too much in the dumps at the present moment
to think of being ''taken."

I have been reading the new H. C. G. with no small amount
of satisfaction and am now more than ever anxious to see a
new edition of H. C. F., with which volume as it happens I
am personally in much closer sympathy than with the one now
in hand. Not that I don't love this one, but that I love the
other more.

Mentally, I care but little for gardening or horticulture.
For farming, on the contrary, I am keen. Unlike yourself,
I have never been much attracted by botany, or morphology
or by vegetable physiology (as she is taught), — all of which
is very wrong of me and base — as I well know. But when
you get upon topics where chemistry can be "applied," you
may be sure of one attentive auditor. I am much struck in
the new vol. by your loyalty to high science — so to say. And
therein you are wise. You hold yourself and your reader
well up above any low or "temporary" point of view. Most
of us, perhaps, are only too ready to talk down towards the
level of the "practical man," and in all probability little or
nothing is gained by our doing so.

Of course there are a dozen things I would like to talk with
you about. For example ' ' avenine. ' ' Manifestly the French-

STATE EXPERIMENT STATION 241

man evolved it out of consciousness. But the practical worka-
day fact remains true that oats do "excite" horses, while
maize does not. How horrid to be torn from moorings and
driven upon the deep tempestuous sea ! ! Sincerely yours,

F. H. Storer.

(E. W. H. TO S. W. J.)

Berkeley, May 8, 1890.

My dear Sir, — I have to thank you for a copy of the new
edition of "How Crops Grow," the receipt of which would
have been acknowledged much sooner had I not been per-
emptorily kept with ' ' the nose to the grindstone ' ' in the prep-
aration of MS. for the State printer, so as to make even a
cursory perusal of the book difficult, much less an * ' eingehende
Betrachtung, " as they say in Germany. But right at first I
was pleasantly surprised by the view of your pleasant counte-
nance as a frontispiece — reminding me, by the slight change
in the fifteen years that have elapsed since we met, that the
days flow by calmly in the city of elms; while here the pro-
verbial restlessness and hurry of American life reaches its
maximum and makes its mark on us. In fact, I often repeat
mentally the pregnant remark of the Badenser forty-niner:
* * Wann 's noch lang so f ortgeht, geht 's nimmer lang so fort ! ' '
And yet it seems impossible to stop without having the Jug-
gernaut of public expectations and demands run clean over
one.

Now as for the lK)ok, I greet it with empressement ; for in
using it ever since I emigrated from Michigan, I have every
year had to add more to the text, until the students felt
aggrieved at my not sticking closer to the book. That is all
right now, and more so, for you have given in compendious
forms some matters that I had not been able to get into
shape to my satisfaction, even in my own head. In looking
over your text on the albuminoids, I begin to regret the good
olden time when we knew so much more definitely about these

242 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

things than we do now! And what if Hammond's cobra-
poison albuminoid should turn out to be a fact? — But one
question in that connection: Why do you omit animal glue
from your enumeration? My students have asked me that
question repeatedly. Ever yours truly, E. W. Hilgard.

(J. B. L. TO S. W. J.)

Rothamsted, St. Albans, April 28, 1890.

My dear Sir, — . . . Your books have been of great service
to myself as well as to all students in agriculture. This
science is occupying a great many more people's attention
than was the case when I first began my experiments and it
would appear that your countrymen will before very long
occupy a very prominent place in agricultural investigation.
Believe me, Sincerely yours, J. B. Lawes.

(S. W. J. TO F. H. S.)

New Haven, Ct., May 10th, 1890.

Dear Storer, — Apropos of "avenin" of Sanson — I wrote
somewhat wrong in stating H. C. G. (1890) p. 121, that
Osborne was not "able to find any evidence of the presence
of such a body in oats." He did find "a brown, granular,
non-cryst. substance." He did not find a substance of alka-
loidal character. Sanson's evidence of "alkaloidal character"
was derived from its action on the nerve-system, and his view
was apparently confirmed by finding a large content of nitro-
gen.

The body Osborne got was undoubtedly an albuminoid as
that Sammelwort is now understood. Since all that in H. C. G.
was printed, S. Martin (Berliner Berichte XXII — 770 e from
Proc. Roy. Soc. 46 100-108) asserts that the alhumose of the
"prayer bean," Ahrus precatorius, is a poison deadly in doses
of 0.060 gm. per kilo of animal live weight when administered
in aqueous solution by subcutaneous injection. Martin says
the poison-symptoms are the same as those produced by

STATE EXPERIMENT STATION 243

globulin (whereof I know not), and, further, he holds the
abrus-poison similar to that of Schlangengift in composition
and action.

If Martin be right — and he appears to be a God-fearing and
truly chemical biologist — then Sanson and you may be also
right in holding that oats have an alkaloidal or quasi-alka-
loidal action on the nervous system although avenin is not a
derivative of pyridine or quinoline. Yours most faithfully,

S. W. Johnson.

P. S. — My former colleague, Wm. A. Norton, engineer and
astronomer — now 5 yrs. at rest — used to aver that he could
not eat oatmeal — * * it excited him so ! " I could never find it
made any special impression on my Riickenmark or any of its
Verzweigungen — but then I am not one of Reichenbach 's
* ' sensitive Menschen. ' '

(F. H. S. TO S. W. J.)

182 Boylston St., Boston, 12 May, 1890.

Dear Johnson, — You bring to mind a point which has
often bothered me. The English have a proverbial expression
which has made many an American lady look aghast. In
speaking of a bumptious youth, they are apt to say "He is
full of beans." This expression has passed from the stable
to the parlor precisely like our * ' He feels his oats, ' ' of which
it is practically the equivalent. A knowledge of this expres-
sion has occasionally shaken my faith in the "excitement in
oats"; but then comes our daily contrast of oats and maize
and the absent horse-bean is out of mind and "has" of
course "toujours tort." If there is an exciting albuminoid
such as you tell of it will compose matters not a little.

By the way, there was an English chemist here last winter,
W. Maxwell, who had much to say of Cholin. He looked up
the practices of our housewives, and learned that it is custom-
ary in these parts to soak the "Boston bean" before cooking
it and to throw away the cholinated water!

244 LETTEE-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

That is an interesting tale, too, which you tell of Prof. Nor-
ton's excitement from oatmeal. I had never thought of the
possibility of such human excitation. Tons of the stuff have I
eaten — and, as you well know, milder mannered man did never
cut a throat; albeit a "drop" of coffee or of tea will most
surely keep me awake for hours at night. But then you know
how Ninon — as Dr. Holmes narrates — told of her being intoxi-
cated by a beefsteak once — during convalescence. Sincerely
yours, F. H. Storer.

One thing to be tried would be to see if horses are excited
by cooked oats. Is Armsby so situated that he could try this
exp. ? It would be of value to verify Sanson's "electrical"
tests, anyway.

Perhaps Sanson tried the effect of heat on his avenin ?

I am afar from books, as I write, but I remain as usual

Thine—

(S. W. J. TO S. P.)

Nov. 4—1890.

My dear Parsons, — Some months ago I had it on my mind to
write you that I was going to come dowTi to Gotham with my
friend Olcott, and talk grass. Olcott has been working on
that subject for some years, and is on the track of some very
positive improvements in that line, we think here. You are
situated very favorably to aid in developing and publishing
his plans and results and I knew would appreciate his good
points better than any one I know.

Well I didn't get so far as to write or go, and for good
reasons, viz. — too much to do. In the meantime Olcott — who
is enterprising — has interviewed you, and hopes to get oppor-
tunity to show his faith by his works under your eye and
auspices. I told him last week that tomorrow — weather being
favorable — I would join him on an outing to Central Park,
and try with him to see you for a few minutes.

This Station is assisting him and being assisted by him, and
we are very desirous to add to our experimental plots, prom-

STATE EXPERIMENT STATION 245

ising grass-varieties, for lawn or grazing and are glad to have
his field of observation extended. So if we, or Olcott alone,
should turn up at your office soon, it will be mainly for the
grass business. Yours very truly, S. W. Johnson.

(S. W. J. TO A. S. C.)

Dee. 26, 1891.

Dear Sir, — In answer to yours of 21st, I may say that the
"Fertilizer Law" of this State requires this Station to analyze
every Fertilizer sold, offered or exposed for sale in -this State,
costing $10 or more per ton and to publish an Annual Report;
the U. S. Law requires us to publish 4 Bulletins annually, so
that we can 't help advertising the manufacturers of Commer-
cial Manures. Our other duties are definitely laid down in
the law, and if we do them we have neither time nor means to
use for holding meetings or carrying on the very useful and
much needed work you refer to. The Board of Agriculture
or the State Agricultural Society are the proper State organi-
zations to hold agricultural meetings, and they are doing, I
suppose, what they can with very small funds. It is a pity
that so many of the most enterprising of those born and
brought up to early manhood in this State should have gone
all over the West and South to "make things lively" there,
while so many of "the other sort" are letting things go to
the dogs at home.

I shall send your letter to Sec'y T. S. Gold of West Corn-
wall— of the Board of Agriculture — so that he may know
there is a live farmer in Canton who wants to help "stir up
the dry bones," and if he or any other organizer wants my
help it will be forthcoming. Yours very truly, S. W. Johnson.

(S. W. J. TO F. H. S.)

28th March, 1892.

My dear Storer, — Accept my best thanks for the copy of
"Agriculture." I am glad to see "4th edition" on the title

246 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

page. The chapter on Symbiosis is capital. I laid aside my
novel to read it. I was away from home last week or should
have more promptly acknowledged receipt of your postal and
the books. ... I send you by this mail 2 copies of a study of
the "Proteids of Zea Mays Kernel." Yours faithfully,

S. W. J.

(S. W. J. TO J. G. S.)

Feb. 16, 1894.

Dear Sir, — In answer to yours of 13th inst., I would state
that the U. S. appropriation under Act of 1887 is in this
State equally divided between the Connecticut Ag. Exp.
Station at New Haven and the Storrs Station at Storrs.

As to my opinion regarding the division of the fund, I
should say that the entire annual appropriation is not enough
of itself to carry on a first class Station; and to divide it
would be detrimental to the best interests of all concerned,
unless by such division the services of men or institutions
could be secured which would compensate for the disadvan-
tages of duplicating equipments, directors, experts and ser-
vants.

I do not doubt that at present the State of Connecticut is
getting better service in some respects than she would with
but one Station, and for the reason that both Stations are
doing high class work on low class pay. But when in the
future those who conduct these Stations fit their service to
their pay, the result will be very different. The cherry is not
enough for two good bites! Very sincerely yours,

S. W. Johnson.

(S. W. J. TO J. G. S.)

Feb. 24, 1894.

Dear Sir, — The situation in this State, of Agricultural edu-
cation and experiment stations, would require a considerable
volume to set forth fully, and I fear I cannot make it intelli-

STATE EXPERIMENT STATION 247

gible in the compass of a letter. The SheflSeld Scientific
School at the time of the passage of the Hatch Act, 1887, as in
all its history previous to that time, was spending consider-
ably more than its income — was, in other words, obliged to
nse every year more or less of the funds which it was extremely
desirable to keep as a permanent investment. It was for
several reasons thought imprudent for the School to set up a
new Exp. Station. The Hatch act required, should the School
claim its benefits, that land and buildings should be pro-
vided, for which the School had no funds. The Governing
Board addressed a letter to the State Authorities waiving
their claim to the fund ($15,000) in favor of the State Exp.
Station. Already the movement which culminated last year
in making the "Storrs School" into the "Storrs College of
Agriculture and the Mechanic Arts ' ' was in the air, and those
who engineered the latter movement secured the establish-
ment in 1887 of the Storrs Ag. Exp. Station, having, so they
claim, previously "tinkered" the Hatch bill to make a divi-
sion of the Hatch fund possible in this State. This was a
preliminary step towards that result which is set forth in the
"Report of Committee on Education — National Grange B. of
H., 1892" signed by Alpha Messer, and especially in the
Resolution therein submitted, "That the National Grange
Legislative Committee be instructed to continue their efforts
for the passage of a law by Congress requiring the different
states which have united the Agricultural and Mechanical
Colleges with classical institutions to separate the Agricultural
and Mechanical Colleges from the classical" etc. etc.

I mail to your address a package of five documents — four
Reports of the SheflSeld Scientific School and a paper on
Recent Legislation — with references on covers to printed
statements that explain the situation at some length and in
some respects. I shall be happy to answer any further
inquiries as far as I am able. Very truly yours,

S. W. Johnson.

248 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

(S. W. J. TO W. E. B.)

New Haven, Conn., Mar. 31st, 1894.

My dear Sir — In answer to yours of 28th, I take the first
leisure moment to say that we have decided to begin at once
erecting a plant house, and shall be glad to learn of your
acceptance of the proposal I made at our interview, which
I may state more definitely as follows: — You to come on and
take your residence in New Haven the 1st of May (or as
soon as we can get ready to give you occupation), and work in
the line of vegetation experiments and horticulture, for six
months or until Nov. 1st. We cannot now make any plan for
continuing the engagement beyond that time (Nov. 1st) but
I hope that long before the six months have expired, the means
will be found to make a permanent engagement should you
and we find such engagement mutually satisfactory. The
pay for the six months to be $50 per month, paid on the last
day of each month.

You would work under direction of Dr. Jenkins and myself.
Dr. J. and I are in entire harmony and he is a very agreeable
person to work with. No one else would interfere with your
operations. I don't think there would be any difficulty in
your getting away two or three times to New Hampshire.
There will be some one to look after your work when needful.
We have a pretty good Station Library, and there are others
to which you could have access.

I think I have answered every point raised in your letter.
If anything occurs to you for further inquiry I shall be glad
to respond. Hoping to get your decision soon, so that should
you conclude not to come we can negotiate with some one else
in time for the season's work, I remain. Very truly yours,

S. W. Johnson.
(S. W. J. TO E. H. J.)

Holderness, N. H., Aug. 20, 1894.

Dear Geheimer Rath, — I have been thinking about Horti-
culture, Greenhouses and Brother B. To do anything with

STATE EXPERIMENT STATION 249

greenhouses this coming winter it will be needful to expend
a thousand dollars ± very soon. Doubtless we can do it, but
we really ought to spend two or three, or more, thousand dol-
lars in order to have a good plant. The method we have
followed I am very tired of. We take a deal of trouble,
scrimp and go on tick, and finally get a good deal less than
we ought to have. It will not be economical to put heat into
our present house and build a cheap and small potting house,
and then next year add another small house, and go on patch-
ing up and piecing out. If necessary, why we will do so of
course, but I feel it would be better to stop where we are
until the State has given us a good sized appropriation for
enlargement and improvement of Laboratory and Greenhouse.
Then we can go ahead in good shape.

Meanwhile, we must find occupation for Britton and pre-
pare to carry the law-makers to the point of giving us
$20,000 ± . . .

I will go on a collecting tour and get a mass of material,
and see that there is enough to employ Britton and hold him
until we can mature the greenhouse and Horticulture busi-
ness. . . .

As preliminary to asking for appropriations would it not
be well to get ready and send to all the important fairs this
fall, a Station exhibit to interest and instruct the people?

I am thinking of coming home in the first week of Septem-
ber, and will help in this line of Chr. Endeavor. The things
we can exhibit are:

Ist. Babcock test, if there are any places where it has not
been sufficiently shown.

2nd. Back numbers of Reports and Bulletins that are in
our lumber room can be put in circulation in considerable
numbers.

3rd. Station Chemical and Mycol. Exhibit. An abbrevia-
tion of, — or selection from the Ch. Exhibit we used to send
around, but made attractive by some simple expts. e. g.

250 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

(a) Burn P and prepare "bone phosphate" and explain
and prepare supers, (b) Burn K and explain potash, and
show etc., the salts, (c) Show color tests for nitrates, and
demonstrate its presence in soils and well waters, (d) Show
photos (large !) of our work last summer and this on corn
plants. (e) Exhibit Wagner's plates with explanations,
(f ) Show Fungus diseases with pictures, etc.

It would be important as far as possible to get Station work
in such shape that all hands can attend the fairs and show up
the Station.

Now I '11 let you up and get my breakfast and mail this for
your consideration. But it occurs to me and I '11 put it down,
that the Station might do well in some cases, or all where
practicable, to have a special hour or hours appointed at the
fairs for its demonstrations or talks, ''conferences" of Bab-
cock, etc. Avec I'hommage du cceur. Yours, S. W. J.

(S. W. J. TO E. H. J.)

Aug. 25, 1894.

My dear Dr. Jenkins, — Yours of 22d expresses my senti-
ments better than I could do myself. ... It seems to me
that next spring we must enlarge the present glass house or
build another, in order to continue and expand the fertilizer
plant experiments. That is a racket that must be worked.
If, e.g., it will require $1000 or $800 to set up the winter horti-
culture, and if the $1000 or $800 is to come from our next
year's regular income, it is a serious question which (heat or
new house) we shall devote that $1000 or $800 to. But I
need not discuss this further on paper now.

When do you intend leaving New Haven for Nantucket?
(Don't get poisoned with their water in that ancient and
fish-like island. At Siasconset, when I was there, all the
drinking water came from one well, and I was sorry I couldn 't
drink whiskey!) . . . Yours, S. W. Johnson.

STATE EXPERIMENT STATION 251

(F. H. S. TO S. W. J.)

476 Boylston St., Boston, 28 July, 1894.

My dear Johnson, — I send you by mail a copy of a new
edition of the old elementary chemistry which for many a
year was part and parcel of my life. The inception of it —
or, rather, that of the methodized laboratory experimentation
which the book was made to help out — was probably out and
away the most important act of my life. Why can't you
spunk up and say some words about this book in the American
Journal of Science f Trusting that you are as full of "rest"
and vigor as a coiled spring, I am as always, truly yours,

F. H. Storer.

(S. W. J. TO F. H. S.)

Sweet Ferns, Holdemess, N. H. Aug. 8, '94.

My dear Storer, — Yours and the book were duly reed., I
am grieved to think, nearly a fortnight ago. I read the book
through the same day, but that feat broke my bank, or back
or both, and I have not read or writ since. In fact I got over-
done in April and since have been "holding on by the gills"
only — came up here "mortal tired," and have been exclusively
occupied with the endeavor to get up my muscle and improve
the digestive ferments. I am hopeful that the affair will
prove a success, but I am yet in the woods or at least in cop-
pice, and bothered a good deal by tanglelegs and rampikes.

It will afford me keen pleasure to undertake the notice, and
I will spunk up directly and let myself out for that job for
all I'm worth. Yours faithfully, S. W. Johnson.

(F. H. S. TO S. W. J.)
476 Boylston St., Boston, 28 Sept. 1894.

Dear Johnson, — Prithee tell me — right off straight! — the
name and address of the Sec. of the American Association
for the promotion of Agricultural Science or, rather, I would

252 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

like to know where to apply for the purchase of their pub-
lications. I have an impression that Scovell is the Sec, but
am not sure. Sincerely yours, F. H. Storer.

Wasn't that Lord Rayleigh work on the residue from air-
nitrogen great?

(S. W. J. TO F. H. S.)

Sept. 30, 1894.

—The Secy is Prof. Wm. Frear, State College, Pa.

I have not yet read anything but newspaper accounts of
Rayleigh 's work. We need an allotropic nitrogen or oxidable
N-compound to connect chemistry with symbiosis ! and need it
badly, don 't we ? —

(F. H. S. TO S. W. J.)

476 Boylston St., Boston, 1 Nov. 1894.

Dear Johnson, — You 're a trump ! I want you to accept my
very best thanks — many and multifarious — for the "notice"
in this month's number of the Journal. Never was publication
more timely, for our publishers were in the very act of fretting
under the jibes of the agents of rival publications, and were
allowing themselves to lend an all too willing ear to such
agents ' assertions that the book is ' ' too big for daily use. ' '

I have been protesting right along (and a hard fight I have
had of it) against the "trade" feeling that a text-book must
be pared down to lowest term^, and have insisted that this
country is now ripe enough to permit a reputable house to
give over the peddling of white oak cheese and nothing else.

Last week I read for the first time what Hilgard said in
1882, at a time when I was much more dead than alive — about
my (and your!) view of salt and lime in composts!! He
handled his theme well. I acknowledge full satisfaction.
Only I wish I had known of his explanation before reviewing
my "Agric."

STATE EXPERIMENT STATION 253

I have been interested, too, in a really noble research on
petroleum which Maybury (of Cleveland) is carrying on. He
confirms Warren right and left, and is doing himself great
credit. It is a joy and a gladness to see an American chemist
manhandle an American problem. Sincerely thine,

F. H. Storer.

(S. W. J. TO F. W. F.)

May 22d,/95.

My dear Sir, — I am very sorry that my answer to yours of
the 17th inst. has been so long delayed, but I have had to look
for more definite information than I possessed when it came
to hand, and even now I cannot be quite as explicit as might
be desired.

Various preservatives for fruits are nowadays employed
with success. Among them benzoic acid or sodium henzoate
(which latter placed in contact with acid fruit-juices, yields
free benzoic acid) is, I believe, the best. Sodium benzoate is
most convenient, as it dissolves readily (benzoic acid but
slowly) and is otherwise unobjectionable.

How much or rather how little to use, I cannot state pre-
cisely. While there is no evidence, so far as I know, that
benzoic acid or benzoate are in any way injurious when taken
into the digestive tract, in small quantities, it is probably
important that they should be used in minimal amount, since
otherwise they may interfere with health.

It appears to be well authenticated that benzoic acid occurs
in various edible plants and, if such be the fact, the use of this
acid as a preservative is thereby justified. But the quantity
naturally existing in edible vegetable substances is doubtless
very small, an indication that it should be sparingly employed.
The cranberry, which has remarkable keeping qualities, is
stated to contain benzoic acid, and it is not unlikely that
huckleberries also contain it or a very similar acid.

The published statements that I have access to are rather

254 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

vague, but I gather that one part of benzoic acid or sodium
benzoate by weight will be ordinarily sufficient for 500 to 1000
parts by weight of fruit.

The pineapple contains a powerful digestive agent, hrome-
lin, which Professor Chittenden has investigated, and which
is doubtless a principal reason of the salutary quality of that
fruit. This vegetable-pepsin is destroyed by a boiling heat,
and therefore it is desirable to preserve the pineapple un-
cooked. Benzoic acid, I believe, does not in the least impair
the digestive power of bromelin.

I should suppose that the sliced or shredded pineapple,
sprinkled with a little sugar and with the benzoate, and put
into bottles closed with clean corks or into fruit- jars, would
ordinarily keep without further trouble. I say ordinarily,
because of the microbes (fungi, bacteria and what not) which
occasion the moulding, fermentation or putrefaction of fruits,
the name is legion, and some are vastly more hard to kill or
suppress than others. It may happen, therefore, that a pro-
portion of benzoic acid which will answer for this year, or
in this place, or with the pineapples now in market, will be
insufficient next year or elsewhere, because of a difference
in the bacterial seeding or inoculation.

It is important that each jar of fruit should receive its
proper amount of benzoate. I should advise either to have
weighed out (by the druggist) and placed in each jar, just
the dose needed and add to each the amount of granulated
sugar required for sweetening, or, if a considerable batch of
fruit is treated at once with a single dose of benzoate, I should
sweeten to taste with dry sugar, and keep the whole some
days in one large well-covered vessel until the fruit has yielded
a goodly amount of juice and has thereby become impreg-
nated with the preservative. The former plan is preferable
since it is desirable to avoid exposing the fruit unnecessarily
to seeding with the bacterial germs wherewith air is commonly
loaded. Yours very truly, S. W. Johnson.

STATE EXPERIMENT STATION 255

(S. W. J. TO W. E. B.)

Holdemess, Sept. 17, 1895.

My dear Mr. Britton, — I send by Am. Express this morn-
ing a box of Apios Roots with soil containing tubercles and,
it is to be presumed, well stocked with the bacteria and bade-
roids needful to enable this leguminous-tuberous plant to
supply itself with Nitrogen, Argon, Helium and all other
gaseous food. It is just as well, if not better, not to talk about
this plant and its culture. I would say and show nothing —
more than cannot be avoided — for 3 years to come. I would
give the tubers a chance to do their best in garden and green-
house, with and without supplies of N in fertilizers. Take
care of all the earth sent so that the bacteria may not be lack-
ing. I would plant out a row of the tubers in rich garden
soil. They flourish here in a thicket of raspberry bushes,
sumachs, etc., but of course climb well into sunshine. Yours,
etc. S. W. Johnson.

Baked, the tubers are well-tasting and haven't poisoned me.
The dose, however, was small like the tubers !

(S. "W. J. TO J. "W. W., Chairman op Agricultural
Committee of Congress.)

March 1896.

Dear Sir,— The Bill H. R. 6729, of which you request my
opinion, I consider objectionable because it puts upon the
Experiment Stations, or legalizes, the raising by them of
seeds, bulbs, etc. etc. in quantity for sale, an occupation which
is contrary to the objects for which Exp. Stations were estab-
lished. I do not regard such furnishing of seeds, bulbs, etc.
etc. by Agricultural Colleges as objectionable, since work of
that kind may be made serviceable in instruction and in giving
employment to needy students, but that the Secretary of
Agriculture be directed to purchase all seeds, bulbs, trees, etc.

256 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

etc. which are to be distributed, from Experiment Stations
or Agricultural Colleges, provided etc. etc. is, in my opinion,
totally wrong and preposterous. I have the honor to be
Yours very truly, S. W. Johnson.

CHAKTKR V'JII

In 1S96, Professor Jol«n*-« jj ?h '

tiifi of agricultural cbetn»-t' d
retaified the office of dip
tion, being relieved of a:^
dutie* by the vice-dire<'f r. ['
worked in loving and co
for so many years thrt *
authority caused litti

Wlieii,^i<Wf)fW'^t^^^^ iiq«iift0^o4q a moi'l
was no lo!i«^^^j?f^?^^*» a^^^^f^ .0 t*»i09O .iM
tion'sadnjinistratiotf, !•
the institution he hft«* ^
urgent request of th-
of adWsinL
a yi-ar. ?;
renign;
hioi .'
perio'i
nurrov, ;

CHAPTER VIII
EMERITUS

In 1896, Professor Johnson became professor emeri-
tus of agricultural chemistry in Yale University. He
retained the oflBce of director of the Agricultural Sta-
tion, being relieved of all save literary and advisory
duties by the vice-director, Dr. Jenkins, who had
worked in loving and considerate harmony with him
for so many years that this gradual relinquishment of
authority caused little sadness.

When, in 1900, Professor Johnson, realizing that he
was no longer equal even to his light share in the Sta-
tion's administration, resigned the office of director of
the institution he had built up; he accepted, at the
urgent request of the Board of Control, the position
of advising chemist which they created for him. After
a year, however, he again asked them to accept his
resignation, thus severing the last link that connected
him with scientific activities. His letters of this
period depict his philosophical acceptance of the ever-
narrowing environment of old age :

(S. W. J, TO A Niece.)

[December 1896] Your warm invitation to cool Saint Paul
I should be most happy to accept, but I fear he'd cool me!
Then too, I haven 't any tickets for the ' * Limited ' ' left, in fact
I'm very limited myself and can't raise enough to get away
from home unless I tick it. But going it on tick is expressly
worse than riding on a rail !

258 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

In one of your letters (to which kindly consider this to be
the answer) you referred to a meeting of the "A. A, A. C.
and E. S." which it was hoped might be held at St. Paul in
August last. I suppose you know that said meeting was not
held there or anywhere then!

But the meeting of that A. A. A. etc. etc. etc. was held at
Washington about a month ago, — and I went to Washington
and staid a week, and thought how much more pleasant it
would have been were I at St. Paul having a good time.

Though I don't go at the ringing of the bell any more, and
am not laboring to slice information so thin that it can be
passed through the skull-sutures into the brain of the average
young man who goes to school, I have enough to keep me busy,
and am indeed very busy with the Exp. Station and with the
several little sciences that I have struggled with for half a
century. —

(S. W. J. TO A Grandniece.)

Dec. 3d, 1896.

My dear Sara, — I much regret that I have so long delayed
answering your very nice letter written from your Grand-
mamma Easton's house last summer, a year ago and more.
I must not only apologize for this neglect, but must explain
that I was very brain-tired when the letter was received, and
quite unable to make an appreciative answer.

Your question as to the comparative brightness of Jupiter
and Venus, you may very likely have been able to answer
for yourself during the 15 months that have elapsed since it
was proposed to me. Nevertheless I will have my little say,
though I am more versed in things terrestrial than in those
celestial nor have I seen either of the heavenly bodies you
inquire about for a long time. But when I was a school-boy
I "looked after" the stars occasionally, very much as I
"fetched up the cows" or "tended the twins," and although
all these varieties of activity are now and long have been to

EMERITUS 259

me as lost arts, I believe that I remember on many occasions
to have seen Jupiter and Venus walking out together of a
pleasant evening arm-in-arm as honest family folks do, now
and then, and just as Dr. and Mrs. McD. do, I dare say ; and
I recall very distinctly that Jupiter looked quite inferior to
Venus, as I don't doubt the Dr. is quite outshone by your
brave little mamma. To be sure, both Jupiter and the Dr.
are larger than their spouses, but the latter are both nearer
the center of their respective solar systems, and both I sup-
pose "keep the inside track" as they perambulate the zodiac,
and for these or other satisfactory reasons, they — Venus and
Lois — are far more brilliant than any creature can be who
goes on the street in a black hat and tan gloves. Yes, Venus
and her milliner are a long way ahead of Jupiter, who I fear
gets his clothes secondhand, no matter who Dr. McD's tailor
may be.

Now, if what I have written shows any competence to give
information on matters astronomical, I fear that your botani-
cal quiz will bury me out of sight.

Your second question is — Why does the sensitive plant shut
up when we touch it? That is a very difficult question to
answer if one wishes to tell concerning ^'the truth, the whole
truth and nothing but the truth." I can give a variety of
answers, e.g. The sensitive plant shuts up for the same rea-
son that the naughty boy doesn't "shut up." It shuts up
because it can't help it. It shuts up because it was made to
shut up ! It shuts up because it can 't stay open ! I fear that
you don't find these answers satisfactory. Now I \vi\\ give
you an answer that if not satisfactory to you will be perhaps
conclusive, and it will be a pleasure to think of something
besides the sensitive plant. This sublime answer is, "I don 't
know!" But, the first answer, above given, in which the sen-
sitive plant and the noisy naughty boy are classed together,
has a large measure (say a milk-panfull) of truth in it. The
boy and the plant have in all their live young parts a good
supply of what biologists call protopUism. Now, assemble

260 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

your Papa, your Mamma and all the Dictionary that has Pr
words in it, and get a working knowledge of the words under-
scored above. That done, we go on to remark that protoplasm
is always, everywhere under favorable circumstances sensitive,
and capable of motion when touched, i.e. when moved, and
can move of itself. The sensitive plant moves when you move
it, the boy keeps moving when the motion is made and sec-
onded to stop his "moving, any more in that way, just now!"
The sensitive plant moves because its protoplasm moves, and
that 's what 's the matter with the boy !

Now you will ask why don 't other plants move ? The cor-
rect answer is ' ' they do move ' ' ! But most common plants
move much less quickly and far less extensively than the sen-
sitive plant does. Such animals as live in a hardshell house
that they carry around with them, like the turtle, armadillo
and alligator, move much less noticeably than the small boy
whose awful dad has to build, and often [repair], the cloth-
houses and the brick houses that said s. b. dwells in when he
does not go a-swimming. So the clothes in which the modest
mimosa-protoplasm is dressed are much less snug-fitting —
have not so much whalebone, buckram, leather and pilot cloth
as coarser, vulgar plants like for their garments.

There are many plants that are sensitive enough to make
some slow motion when touched roughly. One such plant is
a common "weed" about New Haven, with handsome yellow
flowers and leaves very like those of the "sensitive plant"
you have asked about. Many — perhaps most, plants when
seen under a microscope are found to have visible motions
going on, in their insides, somewhere, especially in the young
parts where they are not too "hide bound." The sensitive
plant, like the irrepressible boy, becomes less sensitive as it
grows old. The boy, you know, when he gets to 90 or 100 years
old isn't more sensitive than a burdock or a pumpkin.

In the sensitive plant the leaves are arranged like this
sketch, where a shows the untouched and h the touched leaves.
From c I have drawn a line to the point where the four leaves

EMERITUS

261

d, e, f, and g are joined to the main leafstalk, 5; at that join
the four leaflet stalks (of d, e, f and g) are enlarged to a sort
of cushion and if this cushion is touched gently on the under
side, the leaflet, either one of the four primary (Dictionary:
primus: prime both of us!) or any of the many secondary
ones, will move, but the same kind of touch on the upper side
will not cause movement. It's just the reverse with the boy.
Touch him gently (with a pin's point on the under side) and
he will jump. I know it for I've tried it and had it tried on,
on the contrary, rap him on the noddle and his backbone will
stiffen and all the mule in him will come to the front !

Now, my dear Sara, behold how long a letter I have written
you with my own hand, as St. Paul says, and how much better
I should feel and be if I wrote many long letters to nice young
ladies, but it's rather late in life to begin now, and I shall be
obliged to cut this short or buy more paper ! —

(S. W. J. TO E. E. J.)

Gray Birches, Holdemess, June 2d, 1906.

Dear Elizabeth, — I take pleasure in informing you that
and I are very comfortable, having passed through

a long East-wind storm of rain and cold, and come out into

262 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

sunshine and a new green world of beauty and bird music.
... I have been busy as a bee "doing stunts." Am now
fixing the screens on Tom's balcony window, and have looked
at small nails in the sunshine until I can hardly see the letters
I am now making. ... I have just returned from accompany-
ing Fred and Mary to Ashland on their way to New York.
They reached Gray Birches Sat. night at 10 o'clock. . . . We
had a very pleasant quiet visit. ... In the afternoon Fred
and I walked down my path to the lake. We inspected all the
4 houses (bath and boat) on our beach, and walked back by
the easy public road.

We found the purple lady 's-slipper (or moccasin flower)
growing near the Bunce cottage and in bloom, also abundance
of the Polygala paucifolia in the lower woods. I boxed 3
lady 's-slipper plants for Mary to carry home and cultivate.
She had never seen it before. . . . With love to the home
friends in 54 and 52. Yours, S. W. J.

(Original Draft of a Letter to the Trustees and
Faculty of Lowville Academy.)

June 19, 1908.

Gentlemen, — Your very kind invitation to attend the Cen-
tennial Celebration of the Academy under your charge was
duly received, and I have delayed my answer in the hope that
I might find it possible to be with you on that occasion. . . .
Were I 20 years younger I should not hesitate to take a night
train for Lowville, but the family council vetoes such an
undertaking, and I most regretfully feel compelled to forego
the pleasure of enjoying your Centennial festivities and
solemnities. My life-companion, whose name, as Miss E. E.
Blinn, closes the list of preceptresses, given on page 76 of the
volume entitled "Lowville Academy Semi-Centennial, " and
who filled that position for 4 years (instead of 1 year, as stated
in Dr. Hough's historical address, p. 76), desires to be remem-
bered to any of her students or acquaintances of the old days,

EMERITUS 263

who may be present with you at your celebration of the
completion of a full century of academic achievement.

I have a strong affection for your Academy and for the
pleasant village where I spent the larger part of six school-
years (1840-1846) under the direct supervision of Mayhew,
Norton, and Moore, all thorough scholars, inspiring teachers,
in every way most friendly, most helpful, most exemplary,
most companionable.

The class-rooms where they taught always were pleasant
places when lighted up by their cheerful presence, and the
atmosphere that environed them seemed full of generous and
sympathetic goodness. Those class-rooms not infrequently
became places of entertainment, and the strain of closely fol-
lowing the rigid demonstrations of logic or mathematics, or
of compelling some idiom of a dead language to resuscitate,
was relieved by a flash of wit or a thrust of sarcasm that may
have stung slightly, but deservedly, and made a sensation that
delighted the entire town of Lowville.

Wishing for you a most agreeable and profitable celebra-
tion, and for the Lowville Academy perennial endurance and
ever-growing prosperity, I am. Very sincerely yours,

S. W. Johnson.

Books accumulated during sixty years filled to over-
flowing three rooms of his dwelling. When impaired
vision precluded further serious work, Professor John-
son dismantled his library. He sent an unusual col-
lection of old agricultural books and journals as a gift
to the Connecticut Station. While director he had
completed the station's files of State and Federal pub-
lications on agriculture ; in the years immediately fol-
lowing his retirement he assembled a nearly complete
duplicate set. This he now gave to the Yale University
Library. A large number of scientific journals on his
shelves was added to the library of his son-in-law.

264 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

Having thus placed the books that seemed to be so
absolutely a part of his own life where they would still
be in daily use, he divided his time between his car-
penter shop and his study, still book-lined, where he
followed certain lines of research in the current jour-
nals and enjoyed the daily discussions held on the
progress of the work on plant-proteins going on in the
laboratory of the Connecticut Station. He still read to
some extent, current literature often, but most often
such books as Thomson's ''History of Chemistry,"
Liebig and Wohler's " Brief wechsel" and Storer's
' ' Agriculture. ' ' The ' ' Oxford Book of English Verse ' '
was never far from his hand; most heartily enjoyed
were ''Prayers, Ancient and Modern" and a thin white
volume that bore the name of ' ' Fiona Macleod. ' ' While
apparently absorbed in these diversions, he neverthe-
less always laid down his book with alacrity to answer
patiently and clearly the many questions brought to
him concerning the history of science and problems
presented in the development of Modern Chemistry, the
birth and growth of which had been so nearly coinci-
dent with his own professional life.

Attacks of pneumonia, in 1906 and 1907, left him
very frail. He accompanied the family to New Hamp-
shire in the summer of 1908 ; in June, 1909, he decided
to remain quietly in New Haven, planning for his
summer's amusement field experiments that he had
"never before had the time to undertake." He also
set in order and refitted his private laboratory ; where
he undertook to isolate the citric acid which a German
chemist, some years before, had reported to be present
in milk — an observation that up to that time had not
been confirmed.

EMERITUS 265

(S. W. J. TO L. F. E.)

New Haven, July 5th, 1909.

My dear Fred, — Last week Tuesday your Aunt Elizabeth
and Lily with ^liss R., a trained nurse, took night train at
10 P.M. and reached Ashland at 8 A.M. Wed'y morning.
Tom and the cook followed on Friday.

They write that the journey was comfortable and they are
enjoying the top of Shepard Hill very much. I am staying
here and feel like continuing to stay. The rest are booked
to go to Holderness on the 8th. Tom will return soon and
be here most of July. Your aunt and I are getting well along
on the back track; 2d childhood and renewed babyhood are
making both of us amusing to ' ' the rising generations. ' ' But
I have one compensation. The thermometer at 80° just suits
my feelings, and I can slosh around on New Haven's dead
levels much better than I can get over the rocky hills of the
old Granny State, and I can now look back on my 4108 weeks
of experience of this wicked World with the comfortable reflec-
tion that I have not much longer to trouble it or be troubled
with it. . . .

(S. W. J. TO E. E. J.)

July 10, 1909.

Dear Elizabeth, — ... I have got into very old clothes, and
am running the shop on full time and getting up my muscle.
I have kept the grapes in good shape, and shall begin bagging
the clusters this P.M. I am trying to put my 3 rooms into
manageable condition — so that I can find what I want and
can't find the rubbish which has nearly swamped the furni-
ture, floors and chairs.

Say to Miss R. that I hope she will gradually aid to develop
your (and her) muscle, — that I shall hear of your going down
to the Lake and up Shepard Hill back again on foot at least
once daily. Bye Bye, S. W. J.

266 LETTER-FILES OF S. W. JOHNSON

Professor Johnson was prostrated by a severe
attack of angina pectoris on July 13, and passed peace-
fully away on July 21, 1909, his mind occupied almost
to the last moment with interesting problems of the
noble science with which in boyhood he had linked his
fortunes.

A fitting close is the recorded estimate of pupils who
are today his successors in the work:

' ' An ardent enthusiast in research work. He was so modest
and unassuming that he frequently did not get credit for
what he really was. He did not seem to feel that he was
blazing a trail in experiment station work in this country,
although such was really the case. ' '

"He not only inspired an interest in the problems of agri-
cultural science, but by the example of his own work fur-
nished an ideal of true scientific research which has been a
standard ever since."

' ' The Agricultural Stations of the country will be the ever-
lasting memorial of his services. . . . His life rounded to its
close, with a great service done to his state and country and
done quietly without observation, just as a tree ripens its
fruit."

APPENDICES

BIBLIOGRAPHY OF S. W. JOHNSON

Books

Translated: The Relations of Chemistry to Agriculture and
the Agricultural Experiments of Mr. J. B. Lawes. By-
Justus Von Liebig. Albany, 1855, 12°, 87 pp.

Essays on Peat, Muck, and Commercial Manures. (Com-
prising First and Second Annual Reports to Conn. State
Agric. Soc.) Hartford, 1859, 8°, 178 pp.

Edited: Manual of Qualitative Chemical Analysis, by Dr. C.
Remigius Fresenius, from the last English and German
Editions. New York, 1864, 8°, xi + 434 pp. 2d ed.,
translated into the "New System" and newly edited,
1875, xiii -f 438 pp. 3d ed., 1883, xvi + 500 pp.

Peat and its Uses as Fertilizer and Fuel. New York, 1866,
12°, 168 pp.

How Crops Grow. A Treatise on the Chemical Composition,
Structure and Life of the Plant. New York, 1868, 12°,
394 pp. Revised with numerous additions and adapted
to English use by Arthur Herbert Church, M. A., and
William T. Thistelton Dyer, B. A., Professors at Royal
Agricultural College, Cirencester, Eng., London, 1869,
12°, xvi + 399 pp. ; Translated into German by Her-
mann von Liebig with a preface by Justus von Liebig,
Braunschweig, 1871, 8°, xvi + 460 pp. ; Translated into
Russian (from the German) by N. K. Timashev, St.
Petersburg, 1873, 8°, vi + viii + 403 pp., and by la. N.
Kalinovski, Moscow, 1875, 8°, viii + 412 II pp.; Trans-
lated into Swedish by Dr. C. E. Bergstrand, Stockholm,
1874, 8°, X + 258 pp.; Translated into Italian (from the
English edition) by Italo Giglioli, Milan, 1878, 12°,
xxiii -|- 455 pp. ; Translated into Japanese by C. Ouchi
and H. Imai, and revised by S. Sugiura, F. C. S., with an

270 APPENDICES

introduction by Viscount Shinagawa. Part I, Tokio,
1883, 12°, iv + ix + iii + xxii + 451 pp., Parts II and
III in one vol., Tokio, 1885, 296 -|- 45 -|- 3 pp. ; also trans-
lated into French. Revised and enlarged ed. (American),
New York, 1891, 12°, vi + 416 pp.

Edited: A System of Instruction in Quantitative Chemical
Analysis, by Dr. C. Remigius Fresenius, from the last
English and German editions. New York, 1870, 8°,
XXV + 630 pp.

How Crops Feed. A Treatise on the Atmosphere and the
Soil as related to the Nutrition of Agricultural Plants.
New York, 1870, 12°, 375 pp. Translated into German
(with notes) by Hermann von Liebig, Braunschweig,
1872, 8°, 454 pp. ; Translated into Swedish under
general title with ''How Crops Grow," 1874, vi + 275
pp. ; Translated into Russian (from the German) by la.
N. Kalinovski, Moscow, 1877, 8°, xix + 414 pp.; Trans-
lated into Japanese, Tokio, 1884.

Contributions to Journals.

Scientific.

On Fixing Ammonia. Cultivator, 1847, new series, vol. 4,

pp. 240-241.
Analyses of Limestone. Ibid., 1849, vol. 6, pp. 187-188.
On the Discovery of Sulphuret of Nickel in Northern New

York. Amer. Jour. Sci., 1850, (2), vol. 9, pp. 287-288.
On the Houghite of Prof. Shepherd. Ibid., 1851, (2), vol. 12,

pp. 361-365.
Ueber den Houghit des Prof. Shepherd. Jour. Prakt. Chem.,

1852, vol. 55, pp. 123-124.
Ueber das Zweifach schleimsaure Amyloxyd. Ibid., 1855, vol.

64, pp. 157-159.

BIBLIOGRAPHY OF S. W. JOHNSON 271

Ueber die schleimsauren Salze der Alkalien. Liebig's

Annalen, 1855, vol. 94, pp. 224-230.
Chemische Untersuchung verschiedener Pflanzenaschen,

Bodenarten und Gewasser. (Johnson and Sendtner.)

Ibid., vol. 95, pp. 226-242.
Examination of Two Sugars (Panoche and Pine Sugar) from

California. Amer. Jour. Sci., 1856, (2), vol. 22, pp. 6-8.
On Some Points of Agricultural Science. Ibid., 1859, (2),

vol. 28, pp. 71-85.
Observations on Chancel's Method of Estimating Phosphoric

Acid. Ibid., 1861, (2), vol. 31, pp. 281-283.
On the Soil- Analyses of the Geological Surveys of Kentucky

and Arkansas. Ibid., vol. 32, pp. 233-254.
On the Equivalent and Spectrum of Caesium. (Johnson and

Allen.) Ibid., 1863, (2), vol. 35, pp. 94-98.
On the Occurrence of Silica in the Higher Plants. Ibid., pp.

124-126.
Alkalimetry. Ibid., pp. 279-283.
On the Solubility of Sulphate of Lime in Chlorhydric Acid.

Ibid., p. 283.
Note on the Composition of Soils. Ibid., pp. 292-293.
The Nitrogen Question. Ibid., p. 426.
On Caesium, Separation from Rubidium. Ibid., vol. 36, pp

413-415.
The Characteristics of Thallium. Ibid., 1864, (2), vol. 37

pp. 121-122.
On the Assimilation of Complex Nitrogenous Bodies by Vege

tation. Ibid., 1866, (2), vol. 41, pp. 27-30.
On Native Crystallized Terpin. Ibid., 1867, (2), vol. 43, pp

200-201.
On Kaolinite and Pholerite. (Johnson and Blake.) Ibid.

pp. 351-361 ; pp. 405-406.
On Nitrification. Ibid., 1869, (2), vol. 47, pp. 235-242.
On the Estimation of Carbonic Acid. Ibid., vol. 48, pp. Ill-

114.

272 APPENDICES

Chemical Notation and Nomenclature old and new. Amer.

Chem., 1870, new series, vol. 1, pp. 300-302.
Seaweed as a Fertilizer. Ibid., 1872, vol. 2, pp. 297-298.
On the Estimation of Nitrogen. Ibid., vol. 3, pp. 161-162.
Ueber die Bestimmung des Stickstoffs. Liebig's Annalen,

1873, vol. 169, pp. 69-74.

Leached Wood Ashes. Amer. Chem., 1873, vol. 4, pp. 92-93.

Potash Salts. Ibid., p. 132.

Low-Meadow Hay. Ibid., p. 179.

Brewers' Refuse Barley Grains. Ibid., pp. 179-180.

On the Use of Potassium Bichromate in Ultimate Organic

Analysis. Amer. Jour. Sci., 1874, (3), vol. 7, pp. 465-

468.

Three Papers, read before Amer. Asso. Adv. Sci., 1874.
I. Estimation of Nitrogen by the Absolute Method.
• II. Estimation of Nitric Acid by the Methods of Thorpe
and Bunsen. III. On the Alleged Formation of Ammo-
nium Nitrate from Water Vapor and Nitrogen Gas and
on Price 's Test. Printed by title, Proc. Amer. Asso. Adv.
Sci., 1874, pp. 145-146.

Five Papers, read before Amer. Asso. Adv. Sci., 1875. I. On
Otto's Method of Estimating Phosphoric Acid in Pres-
ence of Iron and Aluminum. II. Apparatus for Fat-
Extraction. III. Composition of Com Fodder and Yield
per Acre. IV. Composition of the Sweet Potato. V. On
Thorpe's Method of Estimating Nitric Acid. Printed by
title. Ibid., 1875, p. 122.

Apparatus for Quantitative Fat-Extraction. The Composi-
tion of the Sweet Potato. The Composition of Maize
Fodder. Amer. Jour. Sci., 1877, (3), vol. 13, pp. 196-207.

On Thorpe and Bunsen 's Methods for the Estimation of
Nitrogen in Nitrates. Ibid., pp. 260-262.

On Schweitzer's New Acid Ammonium Sulphates. (Johnson
and Chittenden.) Ibid., 1878, (3), vol. 15, pp. 131-134.

BIBLIOGRAPHY OF S. W. JOHNSON 273

Experiments on the Relations of Soils to Water, Capillary-
transmission and evaporation. (Johnson and Armsby.)
Ann. Rep't Conn. Agric. Exper. Sta., for 1878, 1879, pp.
83-102.

Determination of Nitrogen in the Analysis of Agricultural
Products. (Johnson and Jenkins.) Amer. Chem. Jour.,
1879, vol. 1, pp. 77-84.

On a Method for the Determination of Phosphoric Acid.
(Johnson and Jenkins.) Ibid., pp. 84-86.

On the Determination of Nitrogen. (Johnson and Jenkins.)
Ibid., 1880, vol. 2, pp. 27-34.

On the Distribution of Arsenic in the Human Body in a Case
of Arsenical Poisoning. (Johnson and Chittenden.)
Ibid., pp. 332-337.

On the Determination of Nitrogen in Organic Bodies. (John-
son and Jenkins.) Zeitschr. Anal. Chem., 1883, vol. 21,
p. 274.

On the Determination of Nitrogen by Combustion with Cal-
cium Hydroxide. Amer. Chem. Jour., 1884, vol. 6, pp.
60-63.

Laboratory Apparatus. A hydrogen generator. (Johnson
and Osborne.) Jour. Anal. Chem., 1890, vol. 4, pp. 169-
172.

Laboratory Apparatus. A gas desiccator. Ibid., pp. 172-175.

Laboratory Apparatus. Apparatus for determining Nitrogen
by the method of Kjeldahl. Ibid., pp. 179-184.

Laboratory Apparatus. A drying oven for forage samples.
(Jenkins and Johnson.) Ibid., 184-188.

The Determination of Phosphoric Acid in Fertilizers by the
Citrate Method. (Johnson and Osborne.) Ann. Rep't.
Conn. Agric. Exper. Sta., for 1889, 1890, pp. 254-267.

Educational.

Agricultural Education. Cultivator, 1852, new series, vol. 9,
pp. 267-268.

274 APPENDICES

Agricultural Charlatanry. Country Gentleman, 1853, vol. 1,

pp. 43-44.
Superphosphate of Lime. Ibid., pp. 130-131.
What is Science ? Ibid., pp. 248-249 ; pp. 265-266 ; p. 283.
Food of Plants. Ibid., pp. 273-274.

Contributions of Science to Agriculture. Ibid., pp. 298-299.
Saxon Agriculture. Ibid., 1854, vol. 3, pp. 165-166.
The Agricultural Experiment Station at Moeckern. Ibid., pp.

261-262.
Nitrogen. Ibid., pp. 373-374.

On the Practical Value of the Analyses of Soils. Ibid.,

vol. 4, pp. 5-6.
Treatment, Value and Application of Manures. Translated

from the German of Prof. Wolff, with introductory note.

Ibid., pp. 68-69 ; p. 148 ; pp. 229-230.

Some Results, Important in Agricultural Practice, Concern-
ing the Feeding of Animals, obtained at the Agricultural
Experiment Station at Moeckern. Translated with notes.
Ibid., pp. 101-102.

Influence of Ammonia on Vegetation. Translated from the
French of Ville with notes. Ibid., pp. 213-214.

On the Practical Value of the Analyses of Plants. Ibid., pp.
293-294.

Industrial Exhibition at Munich, Bavarian Agriculture.
Food and Habits of the Bavarian People. Ibid., pp. 309-
310.

Theory and Practice. Agricultural Science and Scientific
Agriculture. Ibid., 1855, vol. 5, p. 284 ; pp. 300-301.

The Agriculture of Wiirttemberg and the Agricultural Acad-
emy at Hohenheim. Ibid., p. 333.

On the Agricultural Value of Gypsum. Ibid., p. 374, and vol.
6, pp. 26-27.

Remarks on a "Note" of Prof, von Liebig. Ibid., vol. 6,
pp. 74-75.

BIBLIOGRAPHY OF S. W. JOHNSON 275

Show of the Royal Agricultural Society at Carlisle, England.

Country Gentleman, 1855, vol. 6, pp. 109-123.
Heidelberg ; Rape, its culture and use ; Beet Sugar, etc. Ibid.,

p. 138.
Relations of Chemistry to Agriculture. Translated and

abridged from the German of J. von Liebig. Ibid., pp.

233-234; pp. 250-251; p. 267; pp. 283-289.
On the Relations that Exist between Science and Agriculture.

Trans. N. Y. State Agric. Soc, 1855, vol. 15, pp. 73-95.
Agricultural Education. Teaching Practice. Country Gentle-
man, 1856, vol. 7, pp. 49-50.
Agricultural Education. Teaching Science. Ibid., pp. 64-65,
Gas Lime for Agricultural Purposes. Ibid., p. 201.
Agricultural Education. Agricultural Science. Ibid., p. 193

pp. 210-211.
Teaching Agricultural Practice. Homestead, 1856, vol. 1, pp

373-374.
On the Value of Certain High-Priced Fertilizers. Ibid., pp

562-564.
On the Composition and Value of Several Guanos. Ibid., pp

581-582.
On the Composition and Value of Poudrette and Ta Feu

Ibid., pp. 613-615.
Agricultural Education. Scientific Agriculture. Country

Gentleman, 1856, vol. 7, p. 401.
On Superphosphate of Lime. Homestead, 1856, vol. 1, pp.

677-680.
On Fish Manures. Ibid., pp. 709-711.
On Fish Manures. Country Gentleman, 1856, vol. 8, pp. 43-

44.
Agricultural Education, Means of Practical Instruction.

Ibid., pp. 241-242.
On Superphosphate of Lime. Ibid., p. 250.
Agricultural Education. The Farm School. Ibid., pp. 305-

306.
Two Hours on an English Farm. Ibid., pp. 330-331.

276 APPENDICES

Essay on the Physical Properties of the Soil as Affecting
Fertility. Trans. N. Y. State Agric. Soc, 1856, vol. 16,
pp. 101-124.

Frauds in Commercial Manures. Trans. Conn. State Agric.

Soc. for 1856, 1857, pp. 165-187.
Theory of the Application of Stable or Yard Manure. Coun-
try Gentleman, 1857, vol. 9, pp. 9-10.
Theory of the Management and Application of Bam Yard

Manure. Ibid., pp. 185-186.
Notices from Foreign Agricultural Journals. Translated

with a note. Ibid., p. 275 ; p. 349.
Stable Manure. Dr. Voelcker's Investigations. Ibid., pp.

329-330; pp. 377-378.
Poisonous Paper-Hangings. Homestead, 1857, vol. 2, p. 627.
The Manure Question. Preservation by means of Gypsum, in

Switzerland. Country Gentleman, 1857, vol. 10, pp. 9-10.
The Microscope, and American Microscopes. Ibid., 49-50.
Nitrogen and Phosphate of Lime. Translated from the French

of Boussingault with remarks. Ibid., pp. 122-123 ; p. 138.
Notices from Foreign Agricultural Journals. Ibid., p. 170.
On the Nutrition of Plants. Ibid., pp. 185-186.
Does the Soil Need Nitrogen Added? Ibid., pp. 217-218.
On the Use of Salt in Potato Culture. Ibid., pp. 377-378.
Agricultural Chemistry. New Amer. Cyclopaedia, 1858, vol.

1, pp. 210-218.
Phosphatic Guano, Country Gentleman, 1858, vol. 11, pp. 9-

10; p. 26.
Spiritualism Tested by Science. New Englander, 1858, vol. 16,

pp. 225-270.
American Guano; Experience. Homestead, 1859, vol. 4, pp.

603-604.
Review of Baron von Liebig's Letters on Modem Agriculture.

Country Gentleman, 1859, vol. 14, pp. 137-138; pp. 153-

154; pp. 201-202; pp. 361-362; pp. 377-378.

BIBLIOGRAPHY OF S. W. JOHNSON 277

Experimental Study of the Use of Salt as a Fertilizer.
Appendix to: Outlines of first course of Yale Agricul-
tural Lectures, by H. S. Olcott. New York, 1860, pp.
181-186.

Lectures on Agricultural Chemistry. (Delivered at the
Smithsonian Institution in 1859.) 14th Ann. Rep't
Board Regents Smithsonian Institution, 1860, pp. 119-
194.

System in Weights and Measures. Homestead, 1860, vol. 5,
p. 38.

The Guano of the South Pacific. Translated from the French
of Boussingault, with introductory note. Country Gentle-
man, 1861, vol. 17, p. 281 ; pp. 298-299 ; p. 317.

Baron von Liebig, on the Action of Peruvian Guano. Trans-
lated with remarks. Ibid., vol. 18, pp. 106-107.

Influence of Atmospheric Pressure on Drainage. Translated
from the French of Risler. Ibid., p. 170.

On the Conditions of Germination. Ibid., 1862, vol. 19, pp.
153-154.

Lodi Poudrette. Ibid., pp. 282-283.

A Scientific View of "The Progression of Primaries." Ibid.,
vol. 20, pp. 361-362.

The True Cause of the Potato Disease. Ibid., 1863, vol. 21,

pp. 57-58; pp. 217-218; pp. 249-250; pp. 361-362.
On the Absorbent Power of the Soil for Water-Vapor. Ibid.,

vol. 22, pp. 26-27.
On Liebig's Natural Laws of Husbandry. Ibid., pp. 185-186;

pp. 250-251 ; pp. 346-347 ; pp. 361-362.
Recent Investigations Concerning the Sources and Supply of

Nitrogen to Crops. 1st Ann. Rep't Sec. Conn. State

Board Agric, for 1866, 1867, pp. 30-54.
What is Clay 1 Country Gentleman, 1867, vol. 29, p. 253.
Salt as a Fertilizer. Ibid., vol. 30, p. 250.
Concerning Clay and Another Thing. Ibid., pp. 410-411.

278 APPENDICES

Lime on Hill Pastures. Hearth and Home, 1868-1869, vol. 1,

p. 2 and pp. 18-19.
The Nutritive Value of Grasses and Green Fodder, as Indi-
cated by Chemical Analysis and Feeding Trials. 3d Ann.

Kep't Sec. Conn. State Board Agric, for 1868, 1869, pp.

48-56.
Report on Commercial Fertilizers. Ibid., pp. 208-226.
A New Chapter of Agricultural Science. Hearth and Home,

1869, vol. 1, p. 130 ; pp. 146-147.
Manures. Ibid., p. 274; pp. 290-291.
Mixing Lime with Manure. Ibid., p. 418.
Tin Lined Pipes. Ibid., p. 691.
Coal Ashes. Ibid., 1870, vol. 2, pp. 210-211.
Chemistry of Plants. Country Gentleman, 1870, vol. 35, p.

563.
Soil Exhaustion and Rotation in Crops. 5th Ann. Rep 't Sec.

Conn. State Board Agric. for 1871, 1872, pp. 75-99 ; pp.

147-172.
Agricultural Experiment Stations of Europe. 7th Ann. Rep 't

Sec. Conn. State Board Agric, for 1873, 1874, pp. 92-99.
Guiding Ideas in the Use of Fertilizers. Ibid., pp. 167-190.
Agricultural Chemistry. Johnson's New Univ. Cyclopaedia,

1875, vol. 1, pp. 60-62.
The Agricultural Experiment Stations of Europe. 10th Ann.

Rep't Sheff. Sci. Sch., Yale Col., for 1874-1875, pp. 12-31.
Silica in Plant Growth. Country Gentleman, 1877, vol. 42,

p. 391.
The Composition of Maize Fodder. (Revised.) Ibid., p. 711.
On the Reasons for Tillage. 11th Ann. Rep't Sec. Conn.

State Board Agric, for 1877, 1878, pp. 133-160.
Wood Ashes and Lime as Fertilizers. Country Gentleman,

1878, vol. 43, p. 336.
On a New Crop-Grower. Ibid., p. 435.
On the Value of Wood Ashes. Ibid., p. 515.
Bones as a Fertilizer for Corn. Ibid., p. 627.

BIBLIOGRAPHY OF S. W. JOHNSON 279

Wood Ashes and Their Value. Country Gentleman, 1878,

vol. 43, p. 643.
Temperature of the Soil, Fall of Dew. Ibid., 1879, vol. 44,

p. 99.
Fertilizing Value of Cattle Food. Ibid., p. 435.
Fertilizers for Strawberries. Ibid., pp. 470-471, and p. 518.
Animal Charcoal. Ibid., p. 680.

Fodder Corn and Ensilage. Ibid., 1880, vol. 45, p. 419.
Adulteration of Foods. Good Company, 1880, vol. 5, no. 12,

pp. 546-560.
Analyses of Ashes. Country Gentleman, 1881, vol. 46, p. 52.
Systematic Education for the American Farmer. 14th Ann.

Rep't Sec. Conn. State Board Agric, for 1880, 1881, pp.

83-97.
Note on Mechanical Soil Analysis. Ann. Rep't Conn. Agric.

Exper. Sta., for 1886, 1887, p. 140.
The Value of Fish Fertilizers. Country Gentleman, 1887, vol.

52, p. 759.
The Sources of Phosphoric Acid. Ibid., p. 923.
Work of the Experiment Station. 22d Ann. Rep 't Sec. Conn.

State Board Agric, for 1888, 1889, pp. 116-133.
Recent Investigations as to the Agricultural Relations of

Nitrogen. 25th Ann. Rep't Sec. Conn. State Board

Agric, for 1891, 1892, pp. 205-219.

Official Reports.

First Annual Report as Chemist to Conn. State Agricultural
Society. Trans. Conn. State Agric. Soc, for 1857, 1858,
pp. 39-94. 2d ed. Trans. Conn. State Agric. Soc, for
1858, 1859, pp. 35-88.

Second Annual Report as Chemist to the Conn. State Agri-
cultural Society. Trans. Conn. State Agric. Soc, for
1858, 1859, pp. 89-204.

Third Annual Report as Chemist to Conn. State Agricultural
Society. Trans. Conn. State Agric. Soc, for 1859, 1860,
pp. 31-67.

280 APPENDICES

Report of Chemist to Conn. State Board of Agriculture. 6th
Ann. Rep't Sec. Conn. State Board Agric, for 1872,

1873, pp. 384-424.

Report of Chemist to Conn. State Board of Agriculture. 7th
Ann. Rep't Sec. Conn. State Board Agric, for 1873,

1874, pp. 346-367.

Report of Director. Ann. Rep 't Conn. Agric. Exper. Sta., for
the years 1877 to 1900, inclusive.

SUPERPHOSPHATE OF LIME

[First printed in the Country Gentleman in March, 1853.]

This manure, suggested by Baron Liebig about ten years
since, has come into very extensive use in England, and, from
present indications, will soon figure very largely in American
husbandry. It is unnecessary here to allude to the success
that has attended its application, as agricultural readers well
know.

The enterprising farmer who proposes to himself its use,
naturally inquires whether it is cheaper to manufacture it on
his own premises, or to purchase it.

To assist in answering this question, I shall give the results

of analyses of two articles now in market, namely: "M 's"

and"D 's."

It will be best to examine to some extent the chemistry of
the subject, in order to understand what constitutes the value
of Superphosphate of Lime.

There are two compounds of lime and phosphoric acid,
which are of agricultural interest, viz., the neutral phosphate,
which we shall call simply phosphate; and the super-phos-
phate. The first, when pure, contains in 100 parts — Phos-
phoric acid, 48^/2; Lime, 511/2-

It is the chief earthy ingredient of bones, and that to which
they mainly owe their eflficacy as a manure. It is well known,
that although bones are highly useful when applied to the
soil in an unbroken state, they become far more valuable if
reduced to small fragments, or better still if ground to dust.
This is because nothing can enter the plant in a solid form.
All that a crop absorbs through its roots, must be dissolved
in water. The phosphate of lime, as it occurs in bones, is
only very slightly soluble in water, and is of course very
slowly presented to the plant. The more finely it is divided.

282 APPENDICES

or pulverized, the more surface it exposes to the action of
water, and the more rapidly it dissolves. By grinding, it is
only possible to reduce the bones to a gritty dust, fine perhaps
to the eye, but still coarse when seen under the microscope.
Chemistry furnishes a cheap means of extending the sub-
division to a very great degree.

And this brings us to the superphosphate. This compound
consists, in 100 parts, of — Phosphoric acid, 711/^ ; Lime, 28^.

As prepared for agricultural purposes, it is largely mixed
with other substances, as the analyses show. Unlike the phos-
phate, it dissolves easily in water. It differs in composition,
from the phosphate, only in the proportion of its ingredients.
If we add a certain amount of phosphoric acid to the phos-
phate, we shall obtain the superphosphate. It may also be
procured by taking away lime from the phosphate. In prac-
tice, we do the latter. If we add to bones, one-third their
weight of sulphuric acid (oil of vitriol), a portion of lime
quits the phosphoric acid and unites with sulphuric acid,
forming sulphate of lime (gypsum) ; while the phosphoric
acid, thus set free, combines with the undecomposed phos-
phate, forming superphosphate.

Let the reader add a tea-spoonful of superphosphate to a
tumbler half full of water, and after a little stirring, allow it
to settle, and pour off the clear liquid into another tumbler.
(If no superphosphate is at hand, use instead of the liquid
just mentioned, strong vinegar in which some pieces of bone
have stood for a few days.) Then prepare a solution of
saleratus, or soda, in water, and pour it gradually into the
first liquid. Presently a white cloud, or precipitate, as chem-
ists call it, will be formed; at the same time the liquid will
foam like soda-water, from the escape of carbonic acid gas.

This white cloud is precipitated phosphate of lime, and is
the same as bone-earth phosphate except that it is inconceiv-
ably finer than can be obtained by any mechanical means.
The particles of bone-dust will not certainly average smaller
than 1-1000 of an inch, while those of this precipitated phos-

SUPERPHOSPHATE OF LIME 283

phate are no more than the 1-20,000 of an inch in diameter,
as I have just been informed by a friend skilled in the micro-
scope, who has measured them at my request. Since the
particles of the precipitated phosphate are so very much
smaller than those of the finest bone-dust, we can understand
that their action as a manure is correspondingly more rapid.

In fact, the application of superphosphate to the soil is
always speedily followed by the formation of precipitated
phosphate; the iron, Ume, potash, etc., of the soil, having the
same effect as that produced by the saleratus or ^oda, in the
experiment just described.

The use of dissolving bones in sulphuric acid is, then, not
to furnish the plant with a new food, but to present an old
dish in a new shape, more readily accessible to the plant.

In addition to the advantage of subdivision thus presented.
Prof. Way, of the Royal Ag. Society of England, insists upon
another, viz., distribution. This may be illustrated as follows :
If a quantity of bones be acted upon by sulphuric acid, thus
forming superphosphate — and if a part of this have chalk,
lime, or ashes mixed with it before use, while the other por-
tion is directly applied, in both cases precipitated phosphate
will be furnished to the soil. The subdivision will be equal,
but the distribution will be unlike. In the first case, the ready
formed phosphate is imperfectly mixed with the soil, by the
rough mechanical operations of cultivation. In the last in-
stance, if the superphosphate is scattered on the surface, it
is unaffected until a rain falls upon it. Then the superphos-
phate dissolves, and trickles or soaks down into the soil, meet-
ing here with a particle of lime or potash, and depositing a
particle of phosphate, traveling on a little way and depositing
another, and so filling the whole soil with the precious
fertilizer.

It seems then, that it is important not only that the super-
phosphate be made, but that it remain as such until strown
on the soil.

The reader's attention is now directed to the analyses of

284

APPENDICES

several samples of superphosphate. No. 1 is a mean of the
analysis of four superior English samples. No. 2, analysis

of "M 's." No. 3, "D 's" (mean of two according

analyses), and No. 4, mean of five average English samples.
Nos. 1 and 4 by Prof. Way, Nos. 2 and 3 by myself.

No. 2 is an authentic sample furnished me by Mr. Hoyt, of
New Canaan, Conn. No. 3 I procured at the New Haven
Agricultural Store.

Moisture .....

Organic matter and Salts of Ammonia
Soluble Superphosphate of Lime
Insoluble Phosphate .
Sand ....

Sulphate of Lime (gypsum)
Free Sulphuric Acid .
Magnesia, Soda, and undetermined sub
stances . . . . ,

Ammonia yielded by the dry matter .

Precipitated phosphate yielded by the
superphosphate ....

Total amount of phosphate after mix-
ture with the soil

No. 1

No. 2

No. 3

No. 4

8.04

4.54

6.18

5.67

18.01

15.80

9.20

5.71

14.80

14.89

8.34

9.99

10.91

20.98

29.63

9.94

6.12

1.48

8.83

6.24

36.02

36.93

31.72

5.06

5.71

42.44

.32

.39

100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00

3.07 2.74 1.39 1.32

21.80 21.95 12.28 14.72

32.71 42.93 41.91 24.66

Bearing in mind that the value of this manure almost
entirely depends on its superphosphates and its ammonia, it

will be seen that **M 's" is in no respect inferior to the

best English samples, while it contains in addition 10 per cent
of insoluble phosphate of lime, that will be permanently
valuable after the first effect is over.

"D 's, " according to my analysis, (which I have per-
fect confidence in, all the important substances being twice
determined,) is six per cent behind M 's in superphos-
phate, and has but about half the ammonia. The amount of
precipitated phosphate which will be produced when these

SUPERPHOSPHATE OF LIME 285

manures are mixed with the soil is represented in the last

line — nearly 22 per cent in M 's, and 12.3 per cent in

D 's. It should be observed that the total amount of phos-
phate is very nearly alike in M 's and D 's. This is

obtained by adding the insoluble phosphate to the precipitated

phosphate. D 's is therefore equal to M 's in final

effect, so far as phosphates are concerned, yet it is quite
inferior in immediate value, and should be afforded at a less
price, or else more carefully made, so as to raise the amount
of superphosphate.

D 's compares well with English average specimens of

No. 4.

These are both valuable manures, and undoubtedly M 's

is cheap enough at the present price, $50 per ton, if its quality
is maintained as good as my analysis represents. Still we may
hope that as good an article may be purchased, before many
years, at a much less price. This can not be expected until
the consumption is greatly increased, and more competition
arises among manufacturers.

It is proper to state that I have no connection with the
parties concerned in the manufacture or sale of these manures ;
and receive no compensation for the months' labor expended
upon the analyses, except the satisfaction of contributing to
the advantage of purchasers.

It should be borne in mind that the value of these manures
may be found to vary greatly at different times, and the
farmer can only be fully protected from unprofitable expendi-
ture, by the frequent publication of analyses made upon
different samples.

INDEX

Adams fund, 206.

Agricultural chemists, convention
of, 221, 222.

Agricultural College, Penn. State,
140, 142, 143, 144.

Agricultural College, Storrs, 247.

Agricultural Colleges and Experi-
ment Stations, meeting of Asso-
ciation of, 258.

Agricultural committee of Con-
gress, letter to, 255.

Agricultural experiment station,
see Experiment Station.

Agricultural Society, Conn. State,
104-107, 111-116, 118-120, 121,
125, 126, 129, 134, 162, 163, 245;
"Frauds in Commercial Man-
ures," address before, 112; let-
ter to, 118; 2d report to, 121.

Agricultural Society, N. Y. State,
75, 77, 80, 81, 83, 94-97, 103;
"Science and Agriculture," ad-
dress before, 97; letter to, 226.

Albany, normal school at, 30, 32,
33.

"Albany, University of," 31, 34,
80, 95, 96, 102.

Allen, O. D., 164, 175.

* ' American Guano, ' ' a discussion
of practical vs. scientific expe-
rience, 122-125.

"Analyses of Limestone," his first
plea for scientific agricultural
education, 15.

Armsby, H. P., 202, 219, 222, 235.

Association Agricultural Colleges
and Experiment Stations, meet-
ing of, 258.

Association, the American, for Ad-
vancement of Science, meeting
of, 33, 179, 221.

Association, the American, for Pro-
motion of Agricultural Science,
251.

Atherton, G. W., letter of, 233.

Atwater, W. O., 163, 180, 191, 192,
203, 222, 236, 237.

Barnard, J. B., 76, 79, 90.

Board of Agriculture, Conn., 162,
163, 167, 170, 171, 177, 192-200,
213, 245; report- on "Ash of
Tobacco," 170, 206, 207; com-
mittee on experiment station,
195-200.

Board of Agriculture, Maine, 138,
170.

Board of Agriculture, Mass., meet-
ing of, 138.

Board of Agriculture, Mich., 170.

Board of Agriculture, Vermont,
197.

Brewer, W. H., 35, 83, 135, 202,
216, 230, 238; letter of, 136.

Britton, W. E., 208, 249.

Brush, G. J., 35, 60, 72, 89, 91,
145, 147, 183; letters of, 90, 92,
93.

Bunsen, R. W., laboratory of, 75.

Bussey Institution of Harvard Uni-
versity, 145, 218.

Caldwell, G. C, 222; letter of, 152.

Carnegie Institution of Washing-
ton, 206.

Carr, E. S., 95 ; letters of, 95, 96.

Chittenden, R. H., 254.

Clark, W. S., 165; letters of, 165,
166.

Collier, Peter, 180, 197; letters of,
180, 190, 197, 238.

Convention, Yale agricultural, 132;
National agricultural, 165; of

288

INDEX

agricultural chemists, 221, 222;
of experiment station chemists at
Atlanta, 230; of experiment sta-
tions and agricultural colleges at
Washington, 233, 237.

Cook, G. H., 224; letters of, 164,
233.

Cooke, J. P., 237.

Crandell, A. B., letters of, 166, 172.

Craw, W. J., letters of, 35.

Dana, J. D., 90, 93.

Diary kept in Leipsic, 40-46, 47, 49,
50, 58-60.

Dyer, H. A., 95, 104, 111, 126; let-
ter of. 111; comment of, 119.

Easton, J. C, 39, 47, 50, 66, 68,
69, 75, 128, 156, 157, 159; letters
of, 50, 63, 70, 94.

Eaton, John, 165.

Eliot, C. W., 147, 148, 149, 190;
letter of, 149.

Elwyn, A. L., 140, 141, 143.

Erdmann, O. L., 38, 42, 43, 44, 45,
47, 49, 143.

Experience, practical vs. scientific,
122.

Experiment Station, Conn. Agricul-
tural, 149, 170, 171, 175, 180,
190, 257, 258, 263, 264; estab-
lishment of, 192-213 ; early con-
ditions of, 203, 204; origin of
standards, 203; bulletin, 204;
his letters as director, 213, 214,
216-218, 221-224, 226-231, 235,
236, 244-250, 253-256.

Experiment Station, Storrs Agri-
cultural, 246, 247,

Experiment Station at Moeckern,
84.

Experiment Station, convention of
chemists at Atlanta, 230,

Experiment Stations and Agricul-
tural Colleges, convention at
Washington, 233, 237.

Farlow, W. G., 216, 217.

Fertilizer control, 200.

Fertilizer laws of Conn., 223, 227,
229, 231, 245.

Fisher, D., 178.

"Fixing Ammonia," his first plea
for science in agricultural prac-
tice, 10.

Flint, C. L., 72.

Flushing Institute, 12, 27.

Frankland, Sir E., 77, 89.

' ' Frauds in Commercial Manures, ' '
112-116.

Frear, William, 252.

Furness, W. H., 72, 74.

Giglioli, Italo, 178, 188, 189; letter
of, 178.

GUbert, Sir J. H., Eothamsted
experiments, 142; letter of, 153.

Gilman, D. C, 165.

Goessmann, C. A., 152, 223, 227.

Gold, S. W., 89, 126.

Gold, T. S., 89, 104, 165, 177, 213,
245.

Goodale, S. A., 138, 152, 165; let-
ters of, 139, 170, 212.

"Guano of the South Pacific,"
117-118.

Harris, Joseph, 72, 111, 112, 138;

letter of. 111.
Hatch act, 205, 206, 236,
Heintz, Prof., visit to laboratory

of, at Halle, 59.
Hilgard, E. W,, 231, 252; letters

of, 225, 241,
Hohenheim, agricultural school, 73,

75, 87, 144,

INDEX

289

Horsford, E. N., 20, 29, 33.
Hough, F. B., historical address,
262.

Jenkins, E. H., 202, 207, 213, 219,
221, 222, 230, 248, 257; letters
of, 171, 213.

Johnson, A. A., 7, 9; letters of, 28,
46, 51, 63, 64, 68, 74, 77, 81, 127,
128, 130, 156, 158, 159.

Johnson, S. W., family and early
life, 1-12; school dr^j-s at Low-
. ville, 8, 9; entry in first chemical
text-book, 9; teaches at Flush-
i°K> 12; goes to New Haven and
enters Yale Analytical Labora-
tory, 22; teaches in normal
school at Albany, 33; returns to
Yale Analytical Laboratory, 36;
sails for Europe, 38; settles in
Leipsic and enters Erdmann 's
laboratory, 42; matriculates in
University, 45; Munich, enters
Liebig's laboratory, 60; Man-
chester, studies with Frankland,
77; becomes regular contributor
to Country Gentleman, 80; con-
troversy aroused by * * Sulphate
of Lime," 81; first assistant in
Yale Analytical Laboratory, 92;
considers position at Albany, 95 ;
writes for Homestead, 104; ad-
dresses Conn. Agricultural Soci-
ety, * ' Frauds in Commercial
Manures," 112; elected chemist
to Conn. Agric. Society, 116; lec-
tures, Smithsonian Institution,
120; appointed professor analyti-
cal and agricultural chemistry,
Yale Scientific School, 125; lec-
tures before farmers ' clubs, 126 ;
attends semi-centennial, Lowville
Academy, 129; marries, 130; lec-
tures, Yale agricultural conven-

tion, 132; investigates nutrition
of plants, 134; writes on soil-
analyses of geological surveys,
135; lectures, Mass. Board of
Agriculture, 138 ; ' ' Peat and Its
Uses, " " How Crops Grow, ' '
"How Crops Feed," 150;
elected to National Academy of
Sciences, 160; active in organiz-
ing Conn. State Board of Agri-
culture, 163; resumes analysis
and estimation of values of ferti-
lizers, 163; delegate to National
agricultural convention, 165;
writes on agricultural chemistry
for Tribune, 166; soil exhaustion
and rotation of crops, 168-170;
ash of tobacco, 170; chairman
sub-section of chemistry, A. A.
A. S., 179; visits Europe, 179-
190; chairman committee on
establishing experiment station.
Conn. Board of Agriculture, 196;
calls first meeting of Board of
Control of Conn. Agric. Experi-
ment Station, 202; director
Conn. Station, 202; develops
policies and methods of Conn.
Station, 202-205; extends re-
search work under Hatch act,
205-208; prepares " I»ure Food
Law" passed by Conn, legisla-
ture, 208; new edition, "How
Crops Grow," 237; emeritus,
257-266.

Johnson, Mrs. S. W., letter of, 161.

Judd, Orange, 198, 200.

von Kobell, Franz, 60, 72, 73.

Lawes, Sir J. B., 72, 102, 141, 168;
Rothamsted experiments, 72, 141,
142, 168, 171; endowment of

290

INDEX

laboratory and fields, 169; let-
ters of, 152, 168, 171, 242.
Le Eay de Chaumont, J. D., 52, 94,
Le Eay de Chaumont, Vincent, 52,

53, 61, 65, 72, 74.
Letters — to friends at home, 12;
to his father, 14, 17, 20, 22, 26,
27, 29, 30, 32, 36, 39, 48, 53, 60,
61, 65, 66, 71, 76, 78, 126, 129,
136, 155, 156, 157, 159; to sister
Esther, 18; to sister Sarah, 26,
38, 75 ; to his mother, 54, 92, 126,
127, 156; to sister Elizabeth, 56,
127, 160; to J. C. Easton, 75; to
his wife, 164, 165, 181-189, 261,
265; to fertilizer agent, 109; to
Conn. Agric. Society, 121 ; to G. J.
Brush, 130; to J. E. Sheffield,
133; to F. H. Storer, 145,174,218,
232, 235, 236, 238, 242, 245, 251,
252; to J. O., 214; to L., 214; to
J. B. O., 216; to W. G. F., 216;
to P. M. A., 216; to ^. E. P.,
217; to G. T., 217; to J. T. H.,
221; to G. C. Caldwell, 222; to
G. H. Cook, 222, 226 ; to C. L. D.,
223; to N. M. C, 224; to C. A.
Goessmann, 224; to N. Y. State
Agrie. Society, 226; to H. S.,
227; to J. W. A., 227, 229; to
C. W. Dabney, Jr., 228; to J. J.
W., 230; to E. B. W., 230; to
A. D. G., 231; to U. S. Commis-
sioner of Agric, 235; to S. P.,
244; to A. S. C, 245; to J. G. S.,
246-247; to W. E. Britton, 248,
255; to E. H. Jenkins, 248-250;
to F. W. F,, 253; to agric. com-
mittee of Congress, 255; to a
niece, 257 ; to a grandniece, 258 ;
to LowvUle Academy, 262; to
F. L. E., 265.

von Liebig, Hermann, letters of,
153-155.

von Liebig, Justus, 14, 16, 26, 49,
58, 60, 61, 66, 68, 72, 73, 75, 76,
82, 92, 94, 102, 141, 183, 194,
264; letter of, 58; his method of
teaching, 194.

Loring, G. B., 138; letter of, 138.

Lowville Academy, 8, 9, 263; pro-
posed school of agricultural
science in connection with, 66,
69, 70, 83; semi-centennial cele-
bration of, 130, 262; centennial
celebration of, letter to, 262.

Martin, S., 242, 243.
Mayhew, D. P., 10, 263.
Mitchell, D. G., 33.
Mixter, W. G., 175, 177.
Moeckem, agric. expt. station at,

84.
Morrm Bill, 132, 137, 166.
Muspratt, E. K., 72, 183.
Muspratt, James, 183.

National Academy of Sciences, 160.
National agricultural convention,

165.
Neale, A. T., 222.
Necessity of experiment station in

Conn., 193.
Neumann's lecture on snow and

rain, 45.
Norton, Edward, 39.
Norton, J. P., 22, 23, 24, 25, 26,

29, 30, 32, 33, 34, 35, 39, 89,

203.
Norton, J. T., 39.
Norton, W. A., 179, 243, 244.

Olcott, J. B., 244.
Origin of standards of Conn. Sta-
tion, 203.
Osborne, T. B., 206, 242.

INDEX

291

von Pettenkofer, M., 60.

Plants, practical value of analysee

of, 86.
Porter, C. H., 91.
Porter, J. A., 36, 81, 91, 110, 125,

126, 132, 133.
Porter, Noah, 39, 59.
Practical vs. scientific experience,

122-125.
Pratt, J. T., 129.
Pugh, Evan, 50, 58, 59, 88, 94,

134, 139-144; letters of, 88, 135,

140, 141, 143, 144,
Pure food law, 208.

Banunelsberg 's laboratory, visit to,

59.
Besearch workers, a plea for the

training of, 117-118.
Rood, O. D., 60, 72, 92.
Bose, Gustav, lecture of, 59.
Bose, Heinrich, lecture of, 59.
Bothamsted, experiments of Lawes

and Gilbert, 72, 141, 142, 168,

171; laboratory, 141, 169.

"Science and Agriculture," a
plea for establishment of an
experiment station in State of
New York, 97-102.

' ' Science as a means of Agricul-
tural Progress," a plea for es-
tablishment of experiment sta-
tions in America, 210.

Scientific principles, a plea for the
application of, to agricultural
problems, 194-195.

Scovell, M. A., 252.

Sheffield, J. E., 133, 136; letter to,
133.

Sheffield Scientific School, 134, 136,
137, 162, 175, 177, 196, 205, 209,
210, 246, 247.

Shepard, C. U., Jr., 222.

Silliman, B., 24, 28, 43.

SUliman, B., Jr., 23, 24, 25, 26, 72,

90, 93, 110; memoir of, 25; let-
ter of, 90.
Smithsonian Institution, lectures

at, 120.
Soils, practical value of analyses

of, 85.
Stoeckhardt, J. A., 107, 108, 143;

letter of, 215.
Storer, F. H,, 144, 222, 264; letters

of, 146-148, 172, 173, 174, 177,

190, 212, 215, 219-221, 234-241,

243, 251, 252.
Storrs, Cordial, 22, 71.
Storrs Agricultural Experiment

Station, 246, 247.
Storrs College of Agriculture, 247.
"Superphosphate of Lime," 281-

285; controversy aroused by, 81,

82.

Thacher, T. A., 29.

Tharandt, 107, 144.

Thaxter, Roland, 206.

Tribune, correspondence, 166, 167,
172178, 219.

Tucker, Luther, 32, 33, 69, 72, 77,
80, 81, 94, 95, 96, 103, 138; let-
ters of, 82-84, 97, 103, 116.

Tucker, L. H., 212.

U. S. Commissioner of Agriculture,

draft of letter to, 235.
"University of Albany," 31, 34,

80, 95, 96, 102.
Uricoechea, Ezequiel, 27, 28, 42,

43, 44, 186, 187; letter of, 185.

Voelcker, J. A., 143, 144.

Waring, J. J., 49, 50, 59, 60, 65.
Watts, Frederick, 143, 165; letter
of, 169.

292

INDEX

Way, J. T., 40, 283, 284.

Webb, J. J., 202.

Weld, M. C, 39, 40, 41, 43, 44, 45,
46, 47, 48, 58, 60, 72, 104, 111.

Woehler, Friedrich, 42, 264.

Wolff, Emil, 87, 140.

Writings, extracts from — "Fixing
Ammonia, ' ' his first plea for sci-
ence in agricultural practice, 10;
"Analyses of Limestone," his
first plea for scientific agricul-
tural education, 15; "Super-
phosphate of Lime," see under
title; "Diary," 40, 47, 49, 50,
58 ; " Agricultural Experiment
Station at Moeckern," 84;
' ' Practical Value of Analyses
of Plants," 86; "Agricultural
School at Hohenheim," 87;
"Science and Agriculture," a

• plea for establishment of an
experiment station in New York
State, 97; "Frauds in Commer-
cial Manures," 112; "Guano of
the South Pacific," (introduc-
tory note to), a plea for training
of research workers, 117; "Ee-
port to Conn. Agric. Society,"

118; "American Guano," a dis-
cussion of practical vs. scientific
experience, 122-125; "Agricul-
tural Experiment Stations of
Europe," necessity of experi-
ment station in Conn., 193;
"Guiding Ideas in the use of
Fertilizers," a plea for applica-
tion of scientific principles to ag-
ricultural problems, 194; proper
limitations of a fertilizer con-
trol, 200; origin of standards
of Conn. Station, 203 ; early con-
ditions of Conn. Station, 203,
204; bulletin as director, his
first issued, opp. p. 204; "Sci-
ence as a means of Agricultural
Progress," a plea for establish-
ment of experiment stations in
America, 210.

Yale agricultural convention, 132.
Yale Analytical Laboratory, 14,

22-25, 27, 34-37.
Yale Scientific School, 89-93, 103,

125, 132, 133.

Zenker, Dr., 44, 45, 47, 50, 56, 57.

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