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CULTIVATION OF FLAX;

THE

_ FATTENING OF CATTLE WITH NATIVE PRODUCE;
BOX-FEEDING ; AND SUMMER-GRAZING.

By JOHN WARNES, Ese.

DEDICATED TO THE LANDLORDS AND TENANTS OF GREAT
BRITAIN AND IRELAND.

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“Oh! is there not some patriot in whose power
That best, that god-like luxury is plac’d
Of blessing thousands, thousands yet unborn,
Through late posterity? Some large of soul
To cheer dejected industry? To give
A double harvest to the pining swain,
And teach the lab’ring hand the sweets of toil ?
—Yes, there are such.” THomSoON.

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PROFITS OF THE WORK TO BE APPLIED TO THE PROMOTION OF
THE FLAX CAUSE.

LONDON:
PRINTED BY W. CLOWES AND SONS, STAMFORD STREET,
“ 1846.

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PREFACE.

So important was a preface considered in former times,
that the talents of Doctor Johnson were not unfrequently
called into requisition to supply authors with such an

appendage to their works. Now, little regard is paid to

this, perhaps, most difficult department of literary labor.

I hope, however, that my introductory remarks will
obtain an attentive perusal, at least, from every true
lover of his country : for my theme, though simple, is
vast; comprehending nothing less than complete deli-
verance from that accumulated mass of pauperism which
preys upon the vitals of the nation. A mass that, if not
supplied with other food than the bread of idleness, must
—at no very distant date, like pent-up steam—explode.
A theme worthy of a Johnson’s pen! yet committed,
by an unerring Providence, to an obscure individual,
without any claim to literary merit or to public notice,
in order that the “‘ excellency of the power might be of
God and not of man.” Of God, because the highest
authorities of the state, in Parliament assembled, avowed
their inability to provide a remedy for the national
distress. Nor do the numerous plans attempted by pri-

vate enterprize, or proposed at public meetings, offer any

prospect of permanent relief; the cultivation of flax
alone excepted.

Years of reflection and diligent research into the re-
quirements, habits, genius, and physical powers of the

vi

labouring population, justify this conclusion, which is
strengthened by the results of successful experiments,
by private communications from almost every county in
England, and confirmed by the experience of those gen-
tlemen whose statements are recorded in the following
pages. :

It will be seen that my progress had to encounter the
usual routine of oppositions attendant upon every good
cause; and that a faithful history of my discovery of
the intrinsic value to the British nation of the flax-erop,
rendered the relation of those oppositions unavoidable.

The fall of the Norfolk Flax Society—the subsequent
attempts to frustrate my labours—with the ebullitions
of ignorance and animosity, of envy and contempt, are
also subjects in themselves unworthy of notice. But I
record them as a salutary warning to those who suppose
that rank and numbers can annihilate the advocate of a
cause sustained by the fundamental principles of Chris-
tianity ; and as an encouragement to all who may here-
after tread the path of the philanthropist and of the
patriot.

The extensive circulation of my pamphlets—the de-
mand for new editions—the interest excited as each
number of my Public Letters appeared—and the acknow-
ledgments from every part of the kingdom of benefits
derived—evince the rectitude of my advocacy.

Doubly gratifying, therefore, was the task that de-
volved upon me, not of composing a new book, but of
compiling one that had already appeared in a variety of
detached forms, and had long been subjected to the
ordeal of public criticism. Not a sentence has been
refuted, nor a case of failure produced, where my direc-

Vii

tions haye been strictly adhered to. Circumstances may
have interfered to prevent the full realization of promised
benefits. But the great majority of successful instances
indisputably prove that all the others might have been
equally so if conducted upon the same principles.
Now that my publications appear in a collected form,
many errors for the future may be avoided. But how-
ever simple every process, and clear every description,
it is scarcely possible, particularly in the management
of flax, for amateurs to succeed without the aid of prac-
tical instruction.
_ I have endeavoured to show that county associations,
with branches attached, were eminently calculated to
digseminate information. I therefore insert the adver-
tisements, circulars, and reports, of those already formed,
for the guidance of parties who may hereafter perceive
the desirableness of establishing similar societies. Their
insertion may be thought by some irrelevant and con-
fusing; as also the controversial portions of my letters,
political allusions, &c.; but had I omitted them, the
nationality of my undertaking and the independence of
my exertions would have been destroyed.

_. My volume is offered as a book of reference, rather
than as a connected history. Information will be found
indiscriminately distributed. But the Index will remedy
any inconvenience on this account, by at once referring
the inquirer to the subject of his immediate research.

_ Although the flax-plant was indigenous to this coun-
try, and its properties, both as respects fibre and seed,

were known from time immemorial, yet its real value
remained undiscovered till the invention of the com-
pound. Every attempt to fatten cattle upon linseed

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with economy had failed. Oil-cake, the refuse of lin-
seed, stood first in the farmer’s estimation. He main-
tained that it was superior to the pure seed itself; nor
could his deep-rooted prejudice be removed till a chain
of successful experiments rendered conviction irresistible.

My attempt to grow the seed of which this favourite
oil-cake was composed, arose from the desire of substi-
tuting native for foreign produce to fatten cattle, and
originated the present movement towards the growth of
flax. An insignificant commencement! but destined,
like many similar dispensations of Providence, to pro-
duce benefits to which no assignable limits can be
placed. :

Box-feeding and summer-grazing next engaged gy
attention ; which, in combination with flax-culture, form
the foundation of the following pages; and I am con-
fident that the advantages therein portrayed will be
fully realized by all who rightly apply them. It would
be folly to dispute their solidity without the test of prac-
tical inquiry. Nor do I intend again to enter the lists
of controversy with parties guided only by empty theo-
ries and idle prejudices.

The opposition of the Anti-Corn-Law League forms
a remarkable feature in the history of the present move-
ment to extend the cultivation of flax. I refer to it with
pain: for though no inconsiderable portion of the free-
trade party were favourable to the culture, and many
flax-spinners promoted it by subscriptions and premiums,
yet, in their collective capacity, they greatly retarded
the cause. Their sweeping condemnation of landowners,
for the supposed attempt “to substitute flax for wheat,
and to lessen the means of subsistence,” was inconsistent

— same tek "5 4 .

1X

and unjust. Nor can ignorance of the Flax Society's
real designs be pleaded as an excuse: for the League
possessed reports and publications of its proceedings, in

which the desire to increase production and to amelio-

rate the condition of the poor was clearly defined.

- Under the improved management of flax, the price
must ultimately approximate to that of cotton, and
enable linen to compete with calico; this would prove
more fatal to the manufacturers of the latter than agri-
cultural protection. Were the climate of England
genial to cotton, the spinner, unquestionably, would be
anxious to promote the home growth, regardless of those
injurious effects upon wheat, deteriorations of soil, and

. prohibitions in leases, which he now advances against
the inestimable flax-plant; but, if any grounds ever

existed for such objections, they have been rendered
obsolete by modern discoveries and by scientific im-
provements in agriculture.
Another opposition arose from the scheme of substi-
tuting for flax the Camelina sativa, a plant pompously
called “ the Gold of Pleasure.” The stalks were repre-
sented as containing superior flax, and the seed to be of
more value than linseed. Through circulars, adver-
tisements, and public letters, glowing descriptions were
promulgated: the project attracted much attention, and
obtained some converts. I sowed a little of the seed
myself by way of experiment: the result. induced me to

-warn the public against the delusion ; on which account
an action was commenced against me, but quickly with-

drawn for obvious reasons; afterwards Mr. Taylor se-
eured a patent for extracting lamp-oil from the seed, for
which it appears to be well adapted.

x

About the same time Mr. Hutcheson obtained a pa-
tent for compressing into cake linseed-oil with the meal
of barley, or that of beans, peas, &c.; as did also Mr.
Hill for the meal of linseed baked with similar ingre-
dients. Both attempts, being complicated and expen-
sive, failed to reward the projectors, or to confer any
benefit upon the community: for baking, pressing, and
forming into shapes are superfluous operations, deterio-
rating, instead of sso tadiesitticadhe to the fattening properties
of the materials.

I had myself a large oven and steam-apparatus erected
for cooking roots, &c.; but discontinued their use in
favour of boiling and scalding, these being more simple
and better adapted to every grade of farmer. As yet |
have seen nothing so effective and economical as an iron
copper.

Since this Preface was commenced twelve months
have elapsed, and additional opportunities been afforded
me of ascertaining the results of experiments, the omis-
sion of which would have rendered my work incom-
plete. I resume my pen, therefore, not to enforce un-
tried theories, but to record authenticated facts.

_ If I had ever any solid reasons for promulgating my
plans,” those reasons are rendered doubly urgent at the
present crisis. The repeal of the corn-laws is insisted
upon by the League, with all the art that human in-
genuity can devise, and with all the power that money
can command; while agriculturists, formed into pro-
tective associations, are equally determined to uphold
the existing duties. Whatever may be the result of the
conflict, it is evident that farmers who have adopted
the cultivation of flax, the fattening of cattle upon native

pda PRR OE. Terns a

—

xi

produce, &e., &c., must be better prepared to sustain the

shock of free-tradé than those who resort to foreign
manure for land, and food for cattle. At all events, it
is certain that a high price for the common necessaries
of life cannot be sustained; that profits upon land must
be derived from increased production ; and that farmers
ought no longer to hold out against the adoption of new
systems of improvement.

The soil, and the poor, are, through the dispensation
of Providence, talents committed to our charge, for the
abuse or neglect of which we are accountable. As
stewards over these great trusts, it is incumbent upon
us to render them subservient to the public weal. This,
an enlightened philanthropy will acknowledge, science
point out the way, and an increasing population enforce.
The requirements of the people include raiment as well
as food ; and it is a question whether the cost for labour
in providing the former is not greater than that for the
latter. Our soil and climate are adapted to the culti-
vation of other crops besides wheat, barley, and turnips.
Could we grow cotton, the nation would be richer by all
the sums now sent abroad for that article: but, as such
an undertaking would be fruitless, why should not our

attention be turned to the culture of flax ?—a plant for
which, including the seed, oil, and cake, 400,000/. per

week are expended with foreigners !

~The object of my book is to show that all this money
might be circulated at home, to the improvement of
the soil and to the advancement of the poor. The
League points to our half-cultivated fields, and tells
us that we are cumberers, not tillers, of the ground.
Reflective and patriotic minds admit the justice of the

xil

accusation, and feel that the stigma ought to be re-
moved. But how to accomplish this desideratum is a
problem they have failed to solve. Nor can it be solved,
except through the national adoption of the flax crop ;
because the redundant population would obtain the
employment, agriculture the support, and trade the
encouragement which each so greatly needs; because
the formation of linseed into food to fatten cattle, and
the sale of flax, will be fresh sources of wealth to the
British farmer ; and because an impetus would be given
to home trade in general by the increased price of wages,
and by the consequent increased consumption of all the
common necessaries of life.

In truth, it is impossible to form an estimate of the
advantages the community would derive; for, inde-
pendent of all pecuniary consideration, moral, civil, and
religious order are involved in the magnitude of the
undertaking.

The redundant juvenile population, in particular, has
long been the bane of society: an irremediable evil,
except through permanent employment; an evil, the
removal of which has for years excited general solici-
tude. But, except the cultivation of flax, nothing
effective has yet been devised. Effective, because, if the
poor-rates at Trimingham have been reduced to one rate
in three-quarters of a year, at threepence in the pound,
through the employment afforded by flax-culture,
it is but reasonable to assume that the same effect
would be produced in every parish throughout the
kingdom.*

- Less than one acre of land to a hundred, now in culti-
* See p. 50.

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xiii

vation, would produce more flax than the redundant
population could prepare for market; be the means of
circulating annually, chiefly in wages, three millions
of money in the rural districts, and of retaining between
two or three millions besides, now sent abroad for lin-
seed, oil, and cake. The accuracy of these depositions
may be ascertained by a reference to Government
Returns, and to the Reports of the Irish Flax Improve-
ment Society. It will then be found that the sums
specified may be doubled.

That a cause of such vital importance should have
rested so many years upon individual effort and expense
must strike the reader with astonishment. But, regard-
less of every consideration except that of national be-
nefit, I prosecuted my labours, and am enabled to look
back upon my losses, mortifications, and disappoint-

ments with composure.

During the past year my farm has been a source of
continued attraction to visitors, the number of my cor-
respondents been greatly increased, and the compound
system of fattening cattle, added to the erection of boxes,
rapidly extended.

Thus far the soundness of my theory and practice is
confirmed. Additional proofs also have been afforded
that, in every part of the kingdom where corn can be
produced, the soil is favourable to the growth of flax;
and that the crop would be extensively cultivated, pro-
vided Societies were established for the preparation of
the fibre, or factors found to purchase the stalks accord-
ing to the Continental system. A Flax Company has
already been formed at Ipswich; the first report of
which is favourable to the undertaking, and the culture

XIV

of the plant ably advocated by the local papers of that
town and neighbourhood.

Upon my own premises, under the agency of Belgians
from the celebrated Courtrai district, several young
people have become expert hand-scutchers, and are
ready to go out as instructors; others are also being
taught to dress flax by machinery ; and, in fact, a com-
plete establishment is formed, such as ought to have
been under the management of local societies: but the
cold neglect of some, and the inconsiderate opposition of
others, compelled me to pursue an independent course.
It is therefore with inexpressible feelings of gratitude
towards an overruling Providence, that I find myself in
a position to employ a number of youths, from thirteen
years old and upwards, at wages varying from 5s. to
9s. per week, whose previous subsistence was extremely
precarious, and whose reformed habits evince the salu-
tary effect of constant work at adequate wages.

It is impossible to portray the moral benefits con-
ferred wherever -flax-culture is introduced ; particularly
upon that part of the population which, being deficient
in physical power, can obtain no permanent employ-
ment, and is a pest to society. Experience has proved
_ that, without occupation, it is in vain to expect the
reformation of the idle: upon this plea alone the Flax
Cause has a just claim upon the support of the British
public; and, when the plans described in this work are
taken into the account, it is evident that all who are
interested in, or dependent upon, agriculture, must
perceive the necessity of adopting them.

Thus, by a combination of views and interests, the
cultivation of flax, the fattening of cattle with native

XV

produce, box-feeding and summer-grazing will be found
admirably adapted to sustain the weight of an increas-
ing population, and to counteract the baneful effects of a
free trade in corn.

In the perusal of my book the critical reader will
doubtless discover many defects ; but the originality and
utility of the work will hide a multitude of faults.

Some of my directions may be considered unneces-
sarily minute; but it should be remembered that I am
answerable for the success of measures I| so strongly
recommend : nor do | arrogate to myself the merit of
discoveries that admit of no improvement; on the con-
trary, my plans are open to investigation; and should
they prove only forerunners of better things, I shall
rejoice in having laid a foundation upon which others
may build a more perfect system.

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REASONS

FOR THE

CULTIVATION OF FLAX.

U as and home commerce are the pillars of national
: for when success attends the plough, the labourer
> artisan are employed, tae and wares meet a

but Res ot of farm-produce, the re of home commerce are
{ bongo exhausted.
The consumption from the farm and the factory is regu-
ccording to the rate at which the people are employed
1 paid; for they never cease to consume except when they
> to smaetye wages adequate to their wants. When the
have the means, they are always the best customers at
et, for” they carry ready money in their hands, and take
ne inferior meats, coarsest wares, and in truth most of those
g which the rich will not have at any price.
: e great drawback on agriculture and trade, at the pre-
n' Stilts, is a want of sale for ordinary meat, malt, and the
rior articles of manufacture, the consumption of which
nly depends on the working classes. ;
Ve need be under no apprehension of a market for our
ie articles, when there is a brisk sale for the worst; but
a the value of the superior is always enhanced as the prices.
inferior kinds advance.
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Who would from choice lie on straw, drink water instead of
beer, eat potatoes without bread or meat, or not provide him-
self and family with substantial clothing for the day and cover-
ing for the night? Certainly noone. The stinted meal of
potatoes has however displaced that of bread; nakedness and
destitution are the substitutes of decent clothing; while meat
and beer have been too long unknown in the dwellings of the
poor. The exceptions are indeed comparatively few. Their
employers are placed in proportionable difficulties, and are .
constrained to practise a severe economy. Consequently the
consumption of native produce is immensely hindered, and the
best interests of the nation marred.

The largest tree receives support from the multitude of its
fibrous roots, which, if injured, will cause the branches to
wither and the trunk to decay; so, if the multitude of our
labouring population cannot find employment, the branches of
inward trade must wither, and the nation decay. |

The wants of the poor are real, not imaginary. ‘Thousands
are, at the present time, reduced to the greatest and most ag-
gravated distress ; some from the total want of work, and others
from not being sufficiently paid. The distress is national, and
the cry for employment urgent. A deaf ear can no longer be
turned to it. The cannon’s mouth, it is true, backed by a well
organised army, may calm our fears for a time; but the tide
of an unemployed population must eventually overwhelm all.

Nor can the impending danger be averted except by the
certainty of employment.

Constant work facilitates consumption, which is the main-
spring of national prosperity. The Minister who shall obtain
this national desideratum will be the best saciid. and the
object of an universal gratitude. ;

It can, unquestionably, be found in the veiled resources of
this great country: a fact that has been repeatedly shown by
many able writers. And it is somewhat difficult to account for
the little effect produced.

The enfranchisement of copyholds, : an act to drain and faci-
litate the exchange of lands, and the enclosure of wastes, would
be of eminent service. These, and many other measures to
improve the country and the condition of the people, have been

3

repeatedly laid before Parliament, and have mostly from vari-
ous conflicting causes and interests been nullified.

The history of the world offers no parallel to the sufferings
of the operatives in the manufacturing districts. Nor is the
slightest hope of alleviation held out to them, except through
___ the chimerical scheme of Free Trade, than which I fear nothing
_ could more effectually perpetuate their miseries. Chimerical,
Fi because the Corn Law and the Tariff have already greatly
t reduced the price of provisions, without affording the slightest
alleviation to the manufacturing distress.

It is only reasonable therefore to conclude, that if all re-
strictive duties were removed, the evil would be increased
‘rather than lessened.

Large quantities of foreign agricultural produce have been
admitted to the depreciation of our own, without any propor-
4 tionable demand for British goods in return; and it is, indeed,
much to be apprehended that a more extensive exportation
__ would not be the means of materially advancing the condition
of the operative. For it appears that competition in the
foreign markets can only be carried on, with any chance of
success, by a low rate of wages in this country.

Therefore, as foreign trade must be maintained by cheap
bread, cheap labour, and oppression; no doubt can exist that
it is the imperative duty of our legislators to promote agri-
culture and home commerce, which would flourish under high
prices of produce and of labour, and render the state of the
poor prosperous.*

* Since the publication of the above, the large manufacturing districts have
assumed an appearance of the greatest prosperity ; but the wages of the opera-
__ tives are still barely sufficient for the common necessaries of life, and entail a
a of cruel vassalage that can never be remedied except by the abolition of
the Factory System. The term prosperous, therefore, is delusive, because, the
servant not being enabled to accumulate in proportion to his master, nor to save
the smallest pittance for old age, must, at the termination of his labours, be
east, not upon his liege lord, as in former times, but upon the Poor Laws for
support.

It is in vain that newspapers expose the wretchedness of the working classes.
It is in vain that gentlemen, influenced by a spirit of love to their fellow-men,
% report the horrors they have witnessed. It is in vain that the interference of

___ Omnipotence is invoked to provide a remedy, so long as the Satanic influence of

x the “ Mule and Iron-man ” used in the factories prevails against the represen-
tations of reason and humanity. I could

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Many elaborate statements have been written to show that
the condition of our poor is much superior to that of the Conti-
nental; without any reference to the inferior condition of the
foreign to that of the English gentleman. The rise of very
many of the higher orders of society in this country may be
traced from those flourishing times when the labourer and the
artisan were employed at liberal wages. An impetus was
then given to home commerce, which has been gradually sub-
siding in proportion to the reduction of wages; and now it is
comparatively at a stand, in consequence of the extremely low
and illiberal rate at which the working classes are paid. The
inevitable result must soon be the fall of English gentlemen
as well as of English labourers to a level with foreigners, and
the designs of that party be accomplished which would delight
to revel in the ruins of agriculture, and in the — of
the sponge to the national debt.

It is true that bread and meat are cheap abroad; but it is
equally true that the wages of the poor in general will allow
them to purchase but little of either. In some ‘parts of the
world the spontaneous productions of the earth contribute
largely towards the maintenance of the poor, as they may be
had for the trouble of gathering. But the climate of this
country will not allow our people to obtain relief from hedges
and ditches.

Nothing can be more impolitic than the attempt to supply
our population with corn, raw material, manufactures, or any
articles made in other countries, that can be grown, manufac-
tured, and made at home. We pay down hard money for these
productions to foreigners, who never return a single farthing
for anything produced from the soil and industry of this king-
dom; but, on the contrary, they wisely employ it in the im-
provement of their own agriculture, in the erection of facto-
ries, and in rendering themselves for ever independent of
England.

*

I could unfold cases of misery and destitution that would sicken the heart in
the perusal. I could relate instances where the rising influence of Christian
feeling towards the amelioration of these sufferings has been overpowered by
the sordid passion for gain. But I refer to my ‘Remedy for the Distresses of
Norwich,’ in the Appendix, , ih

5

Between twenty-five and thirty millions of money were paid
to foreign nations last year for grain and seeds of various kinds,
hemp and flax, oil-cake, and manure, and manufactured goods,
&c. &c., whilst the foreign demand for, as well as the home
consumption of, our own manufacture, has most materially de-
ereased. Hence the melancholy state of the operatives in the
manufacturing towns. Had a few only of those millions been

_ paid to British, Scotch, and Irish farmers for grain and provi-

-sions, the money would have circulated at home, and a portion

4 of the benefits been conveyed to both town and country labour-

__ ers; and we should have seen them usefully and happily occu-

3

pied, instead of being idly and miserably immured within the
walls of an Union house.

More fatal than the Tariff have the Poor Laws been to re-

lpinarnting wages and home commerce.
Hi The multiplicity of dependent people affords a number of
of workmen at a cheap rate, who will let themselves at any price,
adapt their wants and necessaries to their wages, and when no
more work is to be obtained, reluctantly seek an asylum in the
workhouse.

Nine shillings per week for a productive labourer, with his
wife and five or six children, is only a fraction over or under
_ three farthings a meal for each—while single men wander
about seeking work and can find none, who, rather than be in-
earcerated in the workhouse, where life is rendered a burden,
will submit to such an abstinence from necessary food as barely
— of preserving vitality. 7
- To these causes, mainly, are we to attribute the immense
% decay of home commerce ; for it must be remembered the work-
ing classes form the great majority, and upon their well being
depends the prosperity of the state ; therefore till some expe-

aM

dients are adopted to advance their condition, the prospect of
better times to the farmer, the tradesman, and the labourer
must remain hopeless. For where is the manufacturer to find
a market for his goods, the farmer for his corn, or the poor
man for his labour?
j _ The labourer or mechanic who is employed one day, and is
the next plunged into that receptacle of human wretchedness,
a

the Union workhouse, sinks into despair ; there, separated from

7

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6

his family, he listens to the debasing counsels of those with
whom he is compelled to associate; and at last falls from the
situation of being a creditable to that of a pernicious member
of society.

In proportion as the people are miserable, their services can
be obtained for any purposes. Hence the midnight depre-
dations, the commitments to gaol, and the expensive police.

It is the horrible practice of many countries to keep the com-
mon people in ignorance and in want, in order to make them
pliant and to enforce subordination. In this kingdom, in
this land of liberty and of Christian profession, one would hardly
suppose that a policy so debasing existed. And yet how dread-
ful are the effects of those laws which reduce the poor to the
greatest hardships, compel them to perform the severest labour,
and to let themselves out at wages far beneath the sum required
to purchase a sufficiency of the commonest necessaries.

We who receive an abundant share, and fare sumptuously
every day, cannot fail to remember that our enjoyments are
derived from the incessant labours of the working classes.
Nor ought it to be forgotten that in the attempt to improve
their condition, and to afford them a reasonable proportion of
the common fruits of the earth, we at the same time advance
our own interests, secure the stability of our present posses-
sions, and perform the part assigned us by the Creator.

The efforts of the benevolent can never compensate for the
lack of employment. The want of permanent employment is

a hydra that feeds upon the vitals of our country, devouring |

and consuming her substance and reducing her by degrees to
universal pauperism. As idleness is the root of all evil, so is
employment the root of all civil, moral, and religious order.
At no period of our history was there ever a stronger desire
expressed to afford permanent occupation and to alleviate the
sufferings of the people than at the present.

For this purpose the growth of Flax offers the prospect of a
more speedy and permanent relief than any project that has
yet been brought before the public. For while the crop is
highly remunerative to the farmer, it affords more varied
employment and multiplied benefits than any other production
of the earth.

Ss ica ln

q

It is stated that five or six millions of money are annually
sent out of this country to purchase Flax. Now, provided
one-third only of this sum is paid for actual labour, it would
be sufficient to obviate our present difficulties if circulated in
promoting the growth and preparation of that important
article at home. But there is. another advantage to the
British Farmer over that of the Foreign in the value of the _
seed for fattening cattle; which, without any other considera-
tion, will amply remunerate ; so that the work occasioned by

_ this double crop will require all our spare hands, and at once
_ put astop to the cry for employment and the rage for free

trade.

If Flax were grown upon an extensive scale in England,
the number of hands required would be incalculable ; not for
a season only, depending upon the fluctuations of fashion, but
for a permanency, because, as linen ever has been one of the
most useful and favourite articles of wearing apparel, so will

it continue to the end of time.

“ Amongst the many, the multitude of questions that de-
mand the attention of the British statesman and the British
nation, the loud, the pressing, the paramount cry of the
people for employment and for bread, still predominates. To

this grand consideration all the rest—foreign war, domestic

taxation, political discontent, are as dust in the balance.”*
“It is generally difficult to gain the public ear for inquiries
into social suffering and disorder ; the sympathy of the higher
classes is at all times dull to tales of misery in which they dq
not share, and of peril from which they conceive that their
station will exempt them. Yet the subject is one of which, to
all orders of men, it is impossible to exaggerate the import-
ance or the urgency. The social condition of the poorer
elasses—their physical sufferings and their moral deficiencies
—their wants and their wishes—form topics of inquiry in the
sight of which all party questions, all constitutional changes,
all international policy, all colonial disputes, as such, sink into
comparative insignificance.” +

; * Norwich Mercury. + Westminster Review.

8

These are amongst the most energetic and soul-stirring
appeals of those who profess to see no hope of ameliorating
the condition of the people, except from the resources of
foreign lands. I have quoted them because I conceive that
they are equally applicable to promote permanent employ-
ment from the resources of our own land, and perhaps may
_ tend to ward off those fatal consequences which must inevitably.

accrue from the importation of an undue proportion of raw:

material for our people to manufacture, and of corn for our

people to eat. For if such acute and powerful arguments

can be advanced to aid a chimerical project, they must acquire
a force infinitely greater when applied to the promotion of our
own interests rather than to those of foreigners. And I
cannot doubt that when despair of finding relief at home shall

have given place to hope, these great and comprehensive

minds will be devoted to the furtherance of those immea-
surably important designs contemplated by the Flax Asso-
ciation, which, like a ship just launched, waits an outfit from
the benevolent heart and liberal hand, that she may prosecute
her voyage to the Haven of National Prosperity. |

That the cultivation of so important a plant as Flax should
have remained so long neglected, may perhaps be a matter of
astonishment. For while the mind of man would vainly
compass sea and land to obtain an alleviation of our national
distress, the finger of an all-bountiful Creator points to our
own soil as the source whence the remedy can alone be
derived.
. Flax is cultivated in some parts of England and Scotland,
but with so little care and attention that it can only be used
for the coarser articles of manufacture, and is not worth half
the price per ton that is given by our manufacturers for
foreign. The Irish were similarly circumstanced till they
formed a society two years since to promote an improved sys-
tem of preparation. They engaged Belgian instructors, have
succeeded beyond their most sanguine expectations, and have
now the gratification of seeing their countrymen employed in
preparing and manufacturing a description of flax before
unknown in Ireland, and for which immense sums were an-
nually paid to foreigners. I was present at this Society’s

ah
iy
ie
4
iy

9 .

meeting at Belfast, in Nov. last, and heard Mr. S. R. Mul-
holland state as an instance of the beneficial effects of the
improved system, that the Firm with which he was connected
had sent no less than 40,000/. of ready cash out of the country
annually for the purchase of flax, but that in the present year
they had not expended as many pence. In the emphatic
words of this gentleman, I venture again to call upon my

_ countrymen “to take adyantage of what God and nature
had done for our soil,” and promote the growth of this im-.
portant plant in England.

_ The cultivation of flax has engaged the attention of man-
kind, from the earliest ages, in almost every part of the globe;

and has continued, to the present time, a source of profit to

the cultivator and of employment to the people. Several
lively allusions occur in the Sacred Scriptures. «The flax
and the barley was smitten ; for the barley was in the ear, and
the flax was bolled. But the wheat and the rye were not
smitten, for they were not grown up.” From this simple
statement we discover the accuracy of the Mosaic account, for
in England also flax ripens before wheat. Rahab hid the spies
with the stalks of flax that were laid in order on the roof of
her house. Now asa nice regard is paid to the order in which
flax is laid to dry at the present time preparatory to scutching
and spinning, doubtless hers was placed upon the roof for
similar purposes. Many cottiers in Ireland grow small patches
of flax in their gardens which they prepare and spin for their

own private uses.

Solomon had horses brought out of Egypt, and linen yarn;
the king’s merchants received the linen yarn ata price. Job
complained that his days were swifter than a weaver’s shuttle.
From these quotations we learn that flax was cultivated, pre-

pared, spun into yarn, woven into linen, and considered an

important article of merchandise in those remote ages.

Indeed fine linen is frequently mentioned amongst the orna-
ments of the Temple at Jerusalem. ‘The Egyptians,” says

Belzoni, “were certainly well acquainted with linen manu-
factures equal to our own, for in many of their figures we
observe their garments quite transparent, and among the
foldings of the mummies he observed some cloth quite as fine

10

as our common muslin, very strong, and of an even texture,”
which proves that their manufactures must have arrived at
a great degree of excellence. Pliny describes the different
qualities of flax respectively produced by each country, with a
particularity which argues that the manufacture of linen was
already become an important branch of commerce to many
nations. It appears that the produce of flax was first intro-
duced into England by the Romans. But we may infer that
the plant itself was not cultivated at the time of the Norman
Conquest. Compared to the great demand for flax, its cul-
tivation both in England and Ireland is almost nominal. The
flax plant is scarcely affected by difference of soil and climate.
It flourishes in the cold as well as in the temperate regions of
Europe; in North and South America, in Africa and in Asia.
In some parts of Russia the flax-grounds are as extensive as
the corn lands; but in Belgium flax is cultivated with the
greatest skill and success. The value of a flax crop is there-
fore no new discovery ; the novelty consists in the attempt to
introduce an extended and an improved cultivation of so
valuable an article into our system of husbandry.

Considering the superiority of British agriculture, par-
ticularly that of Norfolk, it is astonishing that the real pro-
perties of flax should have been so little understood and so
long neglected—in Norfolk too, where even the refuse of
the seed, in the shape of oil-cake, has been for so many years
more highly appreciated than any other food to fatten cattle.
It is also wonderful that history affords no information of the
cultivation of flax exclusively for the sake of the seed to fatten
cattle, until the attempt was made by myself at Trimingham.
So little was linseed-cake appreciated about 80 years ago, that
it was used in Holland merely as fuel: and it is only within
the last year or two that the attention of the Irish has been
directed to the importance of saving the seed; for they were
always in the habit of throwing it with the flax into the steep-
ing holes, not thinking the bolls, in which the seed is con-
tained, worth pulling off.

Flax may certainly be termed a double crop; for while ‘the
straw of wheat is reduced to manure, the straw of flax is
advanced to the most useful purposes and made into the most

Rear Nea a A at Eo

11

elegant material. In Belgium it is called the “ Golden Crop,”
in Ireland, the “Rent-paying Crop.’’ Flax sown thin pro-
duces more seed and a less valuable fibre; if thick, less seed
and a superior fibre. |

As an agriculturist, I should say, that the first in import-
ance is the seed, because of its properties, when made into
compound to fatten my cattle ; of the value of the manure for
my land, and of the employment which it affords to my
labourers. As a manufacturer I should undoubtedly say the
first in importance is the fibre, because of the high price that
I pay for it in a foreign country; the great and increasing
demand for all linen goods; and the fund of employment that
a large supply of home-grown flax would afford the manufac-
turing population. ;

“If” as the Rev. F. Blakely observed at the Belfast Flax
Meeting, “gentlemen would calculate from the time the
ploughman turned up the soil, in preparation for the flax
seed, until the period at which the lapper decorated his webs
with golden leaf, it would be found that about thirty different
classes of society earned a livelihood in the cultivation and
management of flax. And when it was considered that of
these several might be aged men and women, or might be
even children, many arguments might be adduced to prove
the great importance of the growing of flax to the country.
Whatever gave employment lowered the poor rate, and what-
ever lowered the poor rate was of advantage to all ranks of
the community.” Mr. Ross, M.P., also remarked, that
“mouths increase faster than markets, and that it was their
duty to make use of such means as were within their reach,
to provide employment for the population. The time was
arrived when all who live by agriculture were called upon to
pay particular attention to it; and if there was one branch
more than another that should engage their attention, flax
was that branch.”

To no party are we, more indebted than to the Flax Im-
provement Society of Ireland; because from no other quarter
could we have derived such a fund of information in so short a

12

time and at so little cost. We are also encouraged to expect
the Irish merchants to visit our flax-markets so soon as we
can produce an article sufficiently attractive. ‘They desire to
deal with us rather than with foreigtiers; and thus may we
reasonably anticipate, through this fresh source of commercial
intercourse, a reciprocity of incalculable benefits; amongst
which none would be greater, I am persuaded from observa-
tion, than the introduction of British husbandry into Ireland.
I will just observe that the most accurate information on agri-
culture might readily be obtained by deputations sent to
England, who would be hospitably received by our enlight-
ened and liberal agriculturists. The formation of numerous
Farmers’ Clubs, similar to those in England, would also tend
greatly to promote the interests of agriculture in Ireland, par-
ticularly if correspondences were established between the
Clubs of both countries, which could easily be effeeted.

Innumerable advantages have accrued from the establish-
ment of local societies in England. I have read many of their
interesting and valuable Reports. ‘The North Walsham Far-
mers’ Club ranks not among the least in enterprise and utility,
of which many proofs appear in the neighbourhood. It would
be superfluous to enumerate more than are contained in the
following Report, abridged from the two Norwich papers, which
it is necessary to record in order to carry out the design of oe
work,

NORTH WALSHAM FARMERS’ CLUB.

Tue annual meeting of this Society took place on Friday,
October 28th. In consequence of the interest excited through-
out the county by the new Compound for Fattening Cattle,
and the attention which has been lately drawn by Mr. J.
Warnes, jun., of Trimingham, to the Cultivation of Flax in
Norfolk, a large number of landowners and practical farmers
assembled at North Walsham, to attend this meeting of the
Club.

The exhibition was held on the grounds of the Rev. W. F:

13

_ Wilkinson, rector of North Walsham, where a large marquee
_ was pitched and coppers erected for making Compound,
Also samples of linseed, with flax in straw, roots, turnips,
mangel wurzel, carrots, potatoes, were exhibited.

_ The show of stock was extremely confined. A few bullocks
__ were shown by Mr. Warnes as proofs of the fattening properties
# of the Compound; and, as much difference of opinion was ex-
pressed respecting the weight, two were killed on the spot, viz.,
a Devon steer and a young home-bred heifer.

___. The following are the particulars of the cattle slaughtered :
- —The Devon bullock, purchased on the 8th of January, at
‘91. 15s.; killed on the 28th of October following ; weighed 58
* stone 10 Ibs. (loose fat, 8 stone 7 lbs.) ; value of the carcase at
4 8s. per stone, 23/. 10s., from which, after deducting the cost
price, and 8J. 11s. for compound, leaves a balance of 5/. 4s.
+ with the manure, for turnips and grass, the real value of which
i
$

was trifling, on account of the small quantity consumed.

_ The home bred was only eleven months old, and was pur-

chased in May, at 3/. It weighed 29 stone 12 lbs. (loose fat
? 4 stone 2lbs.), value of the carcase at 8s. per stone, 12/., leav-
1 ing a balance of 9/. for compound and grass; latterly it had a
___ few potatoes and turnips, but no mi/k or any other food what-
> ever. ;
/ The great points of attraction were the process for making
i the different compounds, and exhibition of flax from various
‘ parts of the county, with linseed of home and foreign growth.
_ The varieties of these productions gave rise to much ani-
_ mated conversation. It was generally agreed that the culti-

vation of flax for the intrinsic value of the seed would repay
the cultivator; that in a grazing country like England, from
+ which large sums are annually sent for foreign oil-cake, the
growth of linseed on a limited scale must be highly remune-
rative. It is proved by the various crops which have been
___ grown in the district, that in productiveness Mr. Warnes’ esti-
mate is borne out. It has been tried on all sorts of soils; on
Mr: Cubitt’s sandy loam at Witton ; on Mr, Partridge’s moor,
at Hockham; on Mr. Warnes’ stiff soil, at Trimingham ; on
_ Mr. Atkinson’s clay loam, at Walcot ; on Mr. Amies’ and Mr.
c” T. Allen's light soils, at Frettenham and Buxton. The pro-

14

duce where proved, is nearly the same, from five to six coombs
per acre: Mr. Atkinson’s exceeding six coombs two quarters,
and the others above five coombs, which, considering many
disadvantages, sufficiently realised the most favourable antici-
pations, and warranted a more.enlarged cultivation of the crop.

As to the amount of employment which the growth of flax
would create, it is not so easy to speak. But even if that dif-
ference only amounted, as Mr. Gower has stated, “to the dif-
ference between the price of foreign linseed and that of our
own growth, and which would have to be paid out of the poor
rate,” it is most material. From Mr. Norfor’s observations,
it is fair to infer that the rippling and scutching of flax
would give considerable employment to females in the day,
as well as preparing it for market in the winter evenings.
We gather from the Irish Reports and other sources, that
it is not necessary for flax, either before or after steeping,
to be immediately prepared for manufacture; on the con-
trary, that it is better for being stacked and kept; that its
various modes of dressing would afford during the periods when
labour is not rife—early in the spring and in the winter—con-
siderable employment to those who would probably be other-
wise receiving parish relief.

Having thus given as much information on the subject as
our means have afforded, we must detail the proceedings which
took place. It may be thought by some of our readers that
we have leaned a little too much in favour of the suggestions
Mr. Warnes has made. If we have done so, we feel that we
have erred on the right side; for although the novel nature
of the feeding, and the institution of the society for the encou-
ragement of flax-growing, ought to receive the closest investi-
gation, we still think that a proposition which has been carried
to its present extent with so much perseverance, and involv-
ing such important results, should also be met by great encou-
ragement, particularly when a part of the proposition has been
proved to have so well succeeded.

About three o’clock the company collected from the various
parts of the ground and assembled in the booth, to consider
the desirableness of forming a society to extend and improve
the cultivation of flax.

15

E. Wopenovsr, Esq., M.P., was called to the Chair, and
in opening the proceedings, said, if a knowledge of the subject
respecting which the meeting had been convened was required
in the chairman, he was not the person who should preside;
but in common with every one present he felt that the culti-
vation of flax was a matter of deep interest, and therefore he
would not detain the meeting with any lengthened observations
of his own. He had taken the chair in obedience to Mr.
Warnes’ wishes, and would call upon him to state his views.
(Applause.)

Mr. Warnes rose and said—I rejoice that the time is ar-
rived to which I have looked forward with so much anxiety.
I rejoice at finding myself surrounded by so large an assembly,
in number far exceeding my most sanguine expectations.
But, above all, 1 rejoice at beholding gentlemen, whose ad-
vantages of education, station, and circumstances, qualify
them so well to take a comprehensive view of those plans
which I shall have the honour of laying before them, and also
to afford that vigorous assistance which alone can ensure suc-
cess. Suffer not the obscurity of the individual addressing
you to serve as an excuse for withholding your sanction and
support. Remember that the greatest results have more
often followed the exertions of the weakest advocates, than
those from whom greater things were expected. Therefore,
at least for once, let it be said that a prophet has honour in his
own country. I stand not here to advocate any selfish claim,
but to lay before you ideas which have occupied my mind for
some months past, arising from the difficulties into which the
agriculture of this country is plunged by the alteration of the
eorn-law and of the tariff, involving alike the interest of the
landowner, the occupier, and the labourer. Sir, we are ar-
rived at a crisis fraught with alarming consequences to the
community, such as render it the duty of every man who has,
or thinks he has, a remedy to propose, boldly to come forward
and declare it. Upon this principle I venture to claim your
attention for a short time. There are some things connected
with the late enactments over which we can exercise no con-
trol; but there are others over which we most certainly can.

16

For instance, we cannot prevent the miller from purchasing
foreign wheat—the baker from purchasing foreign flour—the
merchant, barley—or the manufacturer and the mechanic,
meat. But we can control the indirect purchase of those very
articles in the shape of foreign manure and of foreign cake.

I hold in my hand a pamphlet in which I have endeavoured
to point out the way to become independent of foreigners for
artificial food for our cattle, and manure for our land, to which
I beg to refer you. It would be bad taste were I now to de-
tain you with details which I trust you will read at your
leisure. Ido not expect that they will be followed all at once,
but I believe that in proportion as they are adopted, the in-
jurious effects of the corn-law and the tariff will be materially
obviated. No one has a right to complain who will not refuse
to purchase indirectly those articles, the direct introduction of
which he so much condemns. But we are not now assembled
to discuss the merits of the cattle-compound versus foreign
oil-cake; our object is to take into consideration the desi-
rableness of forming a society to extend and improve the
growth of flax. For this purpose have these specimens been
collected from various growers, principally between North
Walsham and Norwich. They are placed before you in order
that the discussion may in some measure be assisted by the
practical illustration which they afford. There is nothing
very striking in the appearance of those sheaves beyond their
novelty. But when we enquire into their properties and the

various uses to which they can be applied to the service of

man, we are struck with wonder and admiration. The seed is
called linseed, and is, of all food yet discovered, the most
fattening when judiciously given to cattle. Even the refuse,
as you are aware, is, when made into cake, of considerable
value; and the oil, when mixed with white lead, surpasses
everything else for preserving wood. The chaff will be found
serviceable as manure, and as food for horses. I had some
put on a small part of a field, by way of experiment, that was
about to be sown with turnips, and was in all other respects
treated as the rest of the field; the spot.on which the chaff
had been thrown was decidedly the best, and with respect to
its value for cattle, I will read an account from this little

et

a5 paras

me Ts

hiet, as it so fully corroborates my own experience: “I
hased an old and poor cow, the worst in the market giving
milk, which did not exceed two quarts per day. I commenced
th one bushel of the chaff, which weighed 31 lbs.: at the
\d of one week she was giving four quarts. I then gave her
we prpsbile per day, and at the end of three weeks she was
iving frm eight to nine quarts per day, and continued to do
a: Jong as she was fed on this kind of food, which was given
ning and evening, steamed, with a feed of turnips in the
Idle of the day, and 2 lbs. of hay between each feeding.
Le animal became sleek, and she got into a good condition,
t not fat. At the end of the sixth week she was fed, like
> other cows, on cut hay with sheaf corn steamed with tur-
nips, three feeds a day and hay between, when she fell off
gradually from her milk to four quarts a day, which she con-
_ tinued for three months, and then got into good condition.
é It thus appears to me that there is nothing like flax-seed
chaff for giving milk, it is so light, and contains so much of
__ albumaceous matter.” The way in which this and other
y documents relating to the growth of flax came into my pos-
___- session appears so remarkably providential that I cannot for- ©
__ bear mentioning it. A society was formed in Ireland last
4 year similar to that I wish to see established in this country.
| had seen some extracts from its proceedings, but wanting
bi more authentic information, Mr- Bacon, jun., kindly undertook
to obtain it. Accordingly a letter was despatched to Mr.
kinner, the Secretary. That gentleman, however, had seen
u caeeant of our having grown so many acres of flax, and
‘icipating our lack of knowledge in preparing it properly
market, sent a small parcel of pamphlets and papers con-
ming the required particulars to the ‘ Norwich Mercury’
ice, with a letter to the Editor, strongly advising the form-
on of a Flax Society here, and urging him to promote so
sirable an object through the influence of his (the ‘ Mer-
y') paper. Now Mr. Bacon, jun. and Mr. Skinner were
fectly unacquainted with each other, and therefore it must
at least be looked upon as a very singular coincidence that
é ‘one gentleman should have been writing in England for
_ certain papers and documents which the other was at the
c

18

same time engaged in forwarding from Ireland. Thus the
parcel crossed the letter of application on the passage between
the two kingdoms, and safely arrived at Norwich. This
interesting occurrence affords a striking illustration of that
warm-heartedness for which the Irish have ever been so famed,
and is a further proof of the advantages to be derived from
our correspondence with that friendly nation. ft appears
from the paper which I hold in my hand that the same assist-
ance and information which the Flax Society of Ireland ob-
tained at considerable expense from Belgium, may be acquired
by us at much less inconvenience and cost. I will read it :—
“The term of the engagement of the Belgian labourers having
expired, three of these men are about setting out for their
own country; but we learn that some of them are so well
pleased with Ireland that they are willing to re-engage with
any party, for a month or two, who may require their services,
on more moderate terms than those that induced them to
come over.”—(Hear, hear.) There can be no doubt but that
these men will readily come over to England upon the same
terms as they accepted from the Irish.* Notwithstanding
the immense advantages derived from the seed, cake, oil, and
chaff, evidently the greatest centre in the fibre. There are
only two specimens of flax on the table which I have not seen
when growing, and mostly on soils varying materially in
quality. The sheaf which I now take up was grown by
the Hon. Mr. Rous of Worstead Hall, on land of first-rate
quality, but badly prepared for sowing. The next is a
sample from the estate of the Right Hon. Lord Wodehouse,
at Witton. When I tell you that the land is barely worth
eighteen pence an acre to rent, you can form a pretty correct
idea of its quality; and yet observe here is an abundance of
seed, and although the stalk is short, yet so exquisitely fine
is the fibre that the eye can no more discern the finest parts
when drawn forth than it could the floating cobweb. I hope
that our noble friend and member of the North Walsham
Farmers’ Club will order another trial to be made on similar
land next year, with the addition of some manure to the

* Two of the men referred to are now at work upon my premises,

bi

soil, which was not applied by the occupier. I must’ now
eall your attention to the wrought flax, a specimen from my
last year’s crop. It was brought to the state in which you now
see it in Yorkshire. Mr. Burton, from that county, paid me
a passing visit last summer, to examine my crops of linseed
with others in the neighbourhood. He expressed himself
surprised and gratified at what he had seen, and strongly
advised us to persevere in our attempts; and as a proof of
his sincerity, he took back in the same steam-packet with

& himself a bundle of flax-stalks, had it prepared, and sent to

this meeting for general inspection. I lately had some con-
versation with Mr. Pierce, a very intelligent gentleman, who
is at the present time residing at Norwich, and is, I believe,
an assistant tithe commissioner. From the observations made
of our soil, and from long experience, he emphatically declared
that we ought to turn our attention to the cultivation of flax,
and, could he attend our meeting, he would strongly enforce
the subject upon our attention. Gentlemen, possessing as we
do a soil and climate equal to any part of the world for the
cultivation of flax, and this crop being prized by foreigners
so much above all others, and termed their golden crop, I
can see no earthly objection to our striving for a little of that
precious commodity ourselves, instead of allowing the Belgians
to line their purses at our expense. There is one subject to
which I have but slightly alluded, namely, to the employ-

ment which the cultivation of flax would afford the poor, than

which a greater or more important object cannot engage the
minds of men. The noblest epithet bestowed on man is that
of Patriot; but can he be called a lover of his country who
neglects the interests of the poor? I make not these obser-
vations to court popular applause—I disdain it—indeed how
ean I, in advocating the finding employment for the poor, fail
of being benefited myself? If my advice is adopted with
respect to the cattle-compound, I am sure of reaping a decided
advantage in the higher price of corn. With respect to the
growth of flax, I am sure for every shilling I put into the
poor man’s pocket, ten will be returned to my own. Useful
and honest occupation for the labouring hand may almost be
considered at this time the nation’s desideratum. And yet I
c 2

20

learn that there are annually sent out of this kingdom from
ten to twenty millions of money to purchase flax, cake, and
oil, &c., all of which could be produced from the resources of
our soil and from the employment of our own rather than
foreign labourers. The Irish have established a society to
promote and encourage the growth of flax; and it is difficult
to imagine upon what pretence objections can be made to the
formation of a similar society in this country, which would
have for its object the advancement of our own interests
through the employment of the poor. ‘To accomplish so de-
sirable an aim, our legislature have for years held consulta-
tions and established laws, all of which have failed. What
they have laboured for in vain you have now an opportunity
of effecting. Reject not the singular felicity of pleasing all
parties, for, should our endeavours be crowned with success,
our senators will rejoice to find themselves delivered from the
endless fatigue of framing poor laws. The philanthropist will
rejoice to see his countrymen emancipated from union work-
houses, alike vexatious to them and burthensome to us. The
Christian philosopher will rejoice to see the labouring man
once again occupied in earning his bread by the sweat of his
brow, according to the original and wise decree of Heaven;
and lastly, how great will be the rejoicing of those innumerable
poor who languish in idleness, in misery, and in poverty, for
the want of that aid which it is in your power to grant.

_ H.C. Parrriner, Esq., had the honour of moving a resolu-
tion, but heartily wished. that it had fallen into the hands of some
one else more able. They had all heard Mr. Warnes’ clear and
satisfactory statements, and which had relieved him, Mr. Par-
tridge, from going into details.—He could have given little in-
formation on the subject under consideration. Mr. Warnes had
given ample details respecting the growth of flax in that neigh-
bourhood. The matter had been a great deal talked of and
discussed: and they were all acquainted with Mr. Warnes’
suggestions and statements. Everybody would allow that it
should be an object of the farmer to increase his produce at the
least expense. He (Mr. Partridge) knew no better way than
by obtaining. an ample and cheap supply of manure. Mr.

eae

“ie a mM

21

_ Warnes said that cattle can be fed at home without the heavy
_ expense of foreign oil-cake. If a proper and sufficient supply
| _ of fattening materials could be obtained at home, it was most
desirable. There had been a perfect glut of barley. From
_ the new compound a greater proportion of manure could be
_ obtained than at present. If every farmer grew linseed to mix
barley, his supply of manure would be greater than if he
to apply to a neighbouring merchant. As to the growth
of linseed, they had seen the specimens that had been grown in
ut neighbourhood, and therefore there was no lack of inform-
m. He (Mr. Partridge) had his attention drawn to it by a
‘paragraph in the newspaper. He immediately ordered a small
_____ portion to be sown in very bad land. One or two of the specimens
. of the produce had been exhibited, and, as far as Mr. Partridge’s
a nt went, it was a crop that would pay better than any
a tg of corn that could be grown. In conclusion, he moved
_ * Thatas the soil and climate of England are highly suitable
| for the growth of Flax, it is resolved that a Society shall be
for med to promote the cultivation of that important plant in
- Norfolk, having for its object the advanveniont of Agriculture,
and the finding of employment for the poor.”

Mr. Norror seconded the resolution. He considered that
_ they were deeply indebted to Mr. Warnes for having turned
__ his attention to the subject. He (Mr. Norfor) had spent much
time abroad, and had made particular inquiries into the Agri-
; culture of Belgium, where flax was grown to a considerable
a extent. In the rotation of crops flax was introduced to a con-
able extent, and was considered a valuable crop. In one
“part of the country in particular, women were to be seen in the
day time at almost every door breaking flax, which in the
ing they prepared and manufactured for market. If the
growth of flax were introduced under a proper system, he saw
No reason why it should not prosper in this country. In Bel-
flax was grown for the double purpose of seed and fibre,
| it they considered that the fiax was never so valuable as when
it was pulled in the green state. When they pull the flax
a — they take off the seed and ripenit in the sun. ‘Taking
_ the value of the seed at the present price, 25s., it must be a

22

)
profitable crop; but if the value of the flax were added it would
make a considerable addition.

The Cuarrman then put the resolution, which was carried
unanimously.

Sir Foweit Buxton, Bart., said that Mr. Partridge, in the
course of his address, had stated that he was not possessed of
information on the subject. He had also come there to listen
to what passed and to learn. He was certainly very much
gratified at what he had seen, and at what he had heard from
Mr. Warnes, but he was not quite so much pleased as Mr.
Warnes, when that gentleman had pointed out, how by the
growth of linseed and the consumption of barley in the com-
pound, the price of the latter would rise to fifteen shillings,
from thence to eighteen, until it reached the good old times of
a guinea a coomb. Now to a man who consumed about one
hundred thousand quarters annually, this contemplated rise
offered no very pleasing prospect. (Laughter.) But among
the benefits and advantages to be derived from the growth of
linseed, there was none in which he was so deeply interested as
that which Mr. Warnes had stated with regard to its employ-
ment of the working classes. Upon that point he would not
yield to any one.—There was no doubt but that employment
was required for the population, and that it ought to be found
for the labourers, by those who have the means and ability to
promote it, and therefore he hoped, that taking the question
on this ground, there would be found to be no difference
of opinion as to the resolution he should move— That as
funds will be required to further the ends of the Society, it is
resolved that a list be now opened for donations and subscrip-
tions, and that the public be invited to unite in furthering the
laudable objects of the Society.” He (Sir Fowell) thought
they were all under great obligations to Mr. Warnes, and the
least they could do would be to provide the means by which
the society was to be carried on.

W. Burrovucues, Esq., said the subject had been so well
discussed, that he should content himself with merely moving

23

a the following resolution—“ That the Society shall be conducted

by a President, Vice-President, Committee, Treasurer, and

Secretary.”

Mr. H. Ptayrorp had great pleasure in seconding the

q motion, which was carried nem. con.

_ The CHAIRMAN said, in compliance with a suggestion from
ae. Warnes, he would recommend that the. Meeting be
| pnd to the Bear Inn. But he must avail himself of that
_ opportunity of expressing, in common with every person
ne the great pleasure he had experienced in hearing the
statements made by Mr. Warnes, and he was gratified also

with the corroboration these statements had received from

a

others. The Hon. Gentleman was convinced that there never
was a subject more deeply interesting nor more important to
the welfare of this country, than the one which had been dis-

cussed. The present was a critical time for all engaged in

agriculture. It seemed to him, that the proposed cultivation
of flax held out a fair prospect of remuneration ; and there was
that above all other considerations, the prospect of removing the
difficulty of providing permanent employment for all descrip-
tions of labourers. He was convinced that it would provide per-
manent employment for them. He begged pardon for having
made these remarks, and moved that the further consideration
of the subject be adjourned till after the dinner.

~The further proceedings were adjourned to the Bear Inn,

___ where between five and six o’clock, about an hundred and fifty

d gentlemen sat down to dinner. A large number were unable
to obtain seats at the table. All the speeches were directed

to the objects of the Meeting. The utmost harmony and
_ cordiality prevailed. The Hon. W. R. Rous accepted the
office of President of the Society for the Growth of Flax ;
Sir T. F. Buxton, Bart., that of Vice-President; and Messrs.
Gurney were appointed Treasurers. The sedpehion of a Com-
mittee and Secretary was deferred till a sufficient number of
subscribers were obtained.

24

The prominent part that I was induced to take in promoting
the formation of the Norfolk Flax Society originated from my
having incidentally sown an acre of land with linseed for the
purpose of obtaining a substitute for oil-cake, not being aware
that linseed and flax-seed were synonymous. But after I had
discovered the real properties of the plant, and the employ-
ment that it would afford, I considered it an imperative duty
to call public attention to the subject in every possible way,
and I urged upon Mr. Rous the desirableness of holding the
Meeting at Norwich; accordingly, he published the following
letter, addressed—

To the Noblemen, Clergy, Gentry, Yeomanry, and others interested
in the prosperity of the County of Norfolk.

My Lorps anp GENTLEMEN, .
Tue precarious state of my health rendering it extremely
problematical whether I shall be able to attend the first
Meeting of the Flax Society on the 6th of January, I have
begged the indulgence of the Press to circulate these few
remarks as to the objects of this Society, and the grounds on
which it rests its hopes of success.

The objects of the Society are—

Firstly.—By a partial alteration of the rotation of crops to
increase the annual profits of the cultivators of the soil.

Secondly.—By the introduction of flax, the culture of which
affords considerable employment to women and children, to
add to the scanty earnings of the agricultural labourer.

The third object we have in view is to open a new source of
employment for the manufacturers of the city of Norwich, and
thus to relieve the distress so prevalent among the indus-
triously-disposed poor of that ancient city.

Such, my Lords and Gentlemen, are the objects of this
Society. It is for you to decide whether they are worthy of
your support; for without that general support, of which we
deem it worthy, this Society must cease to exist. It may

25

E P yiaathy: be expected that I should be prepared to show the
& grounds on which we presume that fiax can be profitably
4 : grown in this county, for unless that point is established, of
necessity the whole scheme must fall to the ground.
____Now it has been proved by upwards of forty experiments
in the neighbourhood of North Walsham, that the various
soils and the climate of that district are peculiarly favourable
to the growth of seed, for which alone the flax has hitherto
been cultivated.—It may, however, be safely assumed that
the cultivation of the plant, for the sake principally of the
3 flax, will be equally successful; and here I may as well state
that Mr. Atkinson, of Rision: threshed out at the rate of six
_ coombs two bushels of seed per acre, and that he has been
_ offered forty shillings a cwt. for the straw when slightly pre-
pared. We may in fact suppose good flax grown, and that we
have only to find a market for it.—If we should unfortunately
___ be disappointed in finding a linen manufactory established at
a Norwich, we have a ready market at Leeds or Belfast, where
_ they can take all we can grow, and, if properly prepared, at a
_ great price. All that we have to do is to overcome the
difficulty of preparing the flax for the manufacturer, and this
_ ean only be done by employing foreigners, well versed in the
_ art, to instruct our labourers in the mysteries of steeping,
seutching, &e. Our object, therefore, at this moment is to
_ raise a sufficient sum of money to bring over as soon as
possible intelligent foreigners to insure our success. If, as I
ie expect, the cultivation of flax should be on an extensive scale,
a proportionably large sum will be required ; but we must not
a be niggardly i in furthering a grand undertaking, and I trust
__we may rely on the assistance of every patriot and of every
- philanthropist who can afford it.
____Intwo years our labourers will be masters of the art of
_ Managing the flax. The Society may then dissolve itself, and
those who have forwarded this scheme for the benefit of many,
_ may joyfully remember that they have added one to the num-
ber of their good works.
_ _ In conclusion, my Lords and Gentlemen, I earnestly beg
your attendance at the meeting on the 16th. You will then
__ have an opportunity of hearing from that energetic and excel-

26

lent gentleman, Mr. Warnes, who has spared neither time, nor
labour, nor money, in making himself master of the subject, a
full account of the mode of growing flax in Ireland, a clear
exposition of our own prospects if we adopt its culture, and
much other interesting information on the subject.

I have only now, my Lords and Gentlemen, to apologise for
the liberty I have taken in addressing you. Let my anxious
desire for the public good plead my excuse.

I have the honour to be,
Your obedient Servant,
W. R. Rovs.
Worstead House, December 6th.

NORFOLK FLAX SOCIETY.

Tue First Annual Meeting of this important Association was
held on Friday, 6th January, 1843. Our readers will recollect
that this Society was first formed and established at North
Walsham, under the Presidency of the Hon. W. R. Rous, and
under the most favourable auspices. It was intended to em-
brace all the landed proprietors and farmers of both divisions
of the county, and ultimately to be extended throughout the
country, the object being of the greatest national importance,
to promote the cultivation of a plant for the produce of which
vast sums of money are annually sent abroad. It was well
ascertained and demonstrated at the North Walsham meeting,
that our own soil and climate are equal and perhaps superior
to any in the world for the growth and perfection of the plant,
and that its cultivation was generally more profitable than that
of any other crop; all that was wanted to enable our farmers
to fatten their cattle with native instead of foreign produce,
and to supply our manufacturers with a raw material of which
they consume such large quantities, being the application, at
home, of the same skill and care in the cultivation and prepa-
ration of the crop that the people of the Continent, especially
in Belgium, bestow upon it. At the meeting on Friday, the

.
oe

27

_ attention of a large number of the leading Agriculturists of
_ the county was called to the importance of the Cultivation of
_ Flax, both as an article of manufacture and as producing a
seed, the fattening properties of which for cattle have been
fully tested. The preliminary proceedings took place in Span-
_ ton’s Booth, on the Castle Meadow, where a numerous company
. of Noblemen, Gentlemen, and Farmers assembled to witness
__ the method of forming linseed into compound to fatten cattle.
_ A variety of crushing machines and steam apparatus for pre-
_ paring the food were seen at work. A brick structure had
_ been erected with boilers, steamers, troughs, &c., similar to
_ what was exhibited at North Walsham.

Meeting in St. Andrew's Hall.

Soon after one o’clock a large number of gentlemen began to
a assemble in St. Andrew's Hall, and inspected the numerous
he specimens of linseed, flax in straw, and prepared flax, and also
4 manufactured articles there exhibited, which were spread out
over two long tables, in the centre of the hall.

_ About two o’clock the chair was taken by the Hon. W. R.
_ Rovws, President of the Society, who was surrounded in the
orchestra by many of the first gentlemen in the county. The
_ numbers in the body of the hall continued to increase till the
_ termination of the proceedings; and amongst those present we
noticed—

_ The High Sheriff of the County (W. H. Windham, Esq.),
. the Lord Lieutenant of the County (Lord Wodehouse), the
_ Lord Bishop of Norwich, Lord Hastings, Lord Berners, Lord
Colborne, Hon. and Rev. the Dean of Norwich, Hon. and Rev.
Robert Wilson, Hon. and Rev. Armine Wodehouse, Hon. W.
R. Colborne, M.P., Sir Wm. Beauchamp Proctor, Sir Edward
Stracey, Sir Edmund Lacon, Sir J. P. Boileau, Edmond Wode-
house, Esq., M.P., Edward Fellowes, Esq., M.P., N. Bacon, Esq.,
FP. Astley, Esq., Josias Stracey, Esq., John E. Lacon, Esq.,H. J.
Stracey, L’sq., N. Micklethwait, Esq., W. E. L. Bulwer, Esq.,
F. W. Keppel, Esq., Wm. Burroughes, Esq., Colonel Mason,
Hi. S. Partridge, Esq., T. R. Buckworth, Esq., A. Hamond,
Esq., Champion Partridge, Esq., Captain Ives, Captain
Cubitt, W. Norris, Esq., J. Scott, Esq., T. Dolphine, Esq., C.

he pa 3

a a a pa

28

Tompson, Esq., J. S. Muskett, Esq., T. G. Tuck, Esq., W.
Gilbert, Esq., R. W. Parmeter, Esq., J. Postle, Esq., H.
Francis, Esq., J. Warnes, jun., Esq., R. Wright, Esq., Rev.
Canon Surtees, Rev. S. Jodrell, Rev. Dr. Sutton, Rev. T. P.
Slapp, Rev. S. Pitman, Rev. J. Humfrey, Rev. G. Fauquier,
Rev. J. Bulwer, Rev. E. Postle, Rev. A. Keppel, Rev. J-
Holmes, the Mayor of Norwich, Messrs. Roberts, Atkinson,
S. Abbot, jun., Allen, Bennett, Baker, Bidwell, Burton, Burrell,
Barcham, G. Brown, Bygrave, Cubitt, Gower (Dilham),
Gedney, Harvey, Garnham, W. Howes, 8. Lock, J. Howlett,
Barton, Moss, Gillett, Mayes, Hart, Land, Read, Rudd, Howes,
Rust, and a large number of other most respectable and influ-
ential occupiers.

The Hon. W. Rous said—In opening the business of this
Meeting it will not be necessary for me to enter into any
lengthened details of the objects of the Flax Society: those
objects have already been sufficiently explained in various
letters in the county newspapers, and have also formed the |
subject of several articles written with great force and ability
by the editors of our valuable journals. In a word, this
Society seeks to add to the happiness and security of the com-
munity by advocating a plan which, if adopted, promises to
be beneficial to all classes, and especially to the poorer classes,
by providing for them increased valuable employment. Nor
is it desirable that I should occupy your time by any details
on the art of growing flax, or on the spirited mode by which
we hope to attain immediate perfection in the cultivation of
that plant. Those details will be much better explained to
you by my friend Mr. Warnes, whose zeal in the cause of
benevolence demands your esteem, and whose knowledge on
this subject will doubtless obtain your serious’ attention. I
shall therefore confine myself to a short statement of the
exciting causes which produced the flax agitation. Firstly—
the knowledge of the vast sums of money annually sent out of
the country for the purchase of adulterated oil-cake, urged
many gentlemen to attempt a discovery of some efficient sub-
stitute, the produce of our own soil. After a series of experi-
ments by Mr. Warnes, which were afterwards severely and
accurately tested by many gentlemen of the North Walsham -
Club, it was proved to demonstration, that a compound of

29

‘ee parts barley and one linseed, or three parts beans.and
2 linseed, was vastly superior to the oil-cake then in use.
n fact, that, at last year’s prices, 20/. spent in compound
ides the contingent advantages of home labour) was equal
in it effects to 307. laid out in cake. The next step was to
grow the linseed. In that we also succeeded, and the object
wwe then had in view was accomplished. Altered circumstances
larged our views. The national voice demanded that food
1ould be furnished to the consumer at a cheaper rate, and the
lature passed certain Acts of Parliament to produce the
. It would be foreign to the purpose of this Meeting,
n impertinent waste of your time, either to eulogize or
demn those acts of the legislature. Sufficient it is for
: to say, that those whose subsistence depends on agriculture
re obliged to make these inquiries—How are we to preserve
> same relative position in society as formerly? How are we
n vide for our families, and how can we continue to employ
wgricultural labourers at reasonable wages,which is our duty
which we earnestly desire to perform % ? ‘Two modes present
x es. One mode is, to increase the quantity of our
- saleable commodities by an improved system of cultivation,
and a careful selection of stock. Another mode, that which
_ we venture to recommend instead of the first, is to substitute
| some crop of considerable surplus value, in lieu of some of
e which are now losing crops. If the new remunerating
i. increased labour in its cultivation, so much the
ter. If it furnishes a new channel of employment to the
acturing population, it combines every possible advan-
». The originators and supporters of this Society have
, _ many experiments, and have sought all the information
their reach, and have come to the conclusion that the
ivation of flax, both for seed and manufacture, is likely to
; ofitable to the grower and to give that increased employ-
: sich is so desirable. They, therefore, have summoned
s Meeting for the purpose of recommending the adoption of
-growing generally, and of calling on those who hold the
me opinion as themselves to assist them in furnishing the
eans of employing competent instructors, so that we may

_ grow flax in the greatest perfection, and turn it to the greatest
% pest: pe Srentlemen, I thank you in the name of the Society

30

for the patient attention which you have bestowed on my
feeble address—I thank you also in the name of the poor
whose cause we especially advocate. May it never be for-
gotten, that without the just employment of the poor there
can be neither happiness nor even security without stringent
cruelty in any community. If, gentlemen, I have not made
any apology for the inefficient manner in which I oceupy the
honourable post to which you have elected me, be assured the
sole reason is, that I would not occupy your valuable time by
unproductive truisms.

Mr. Warnzgs then spoke nearly as follows :—Mr. Chairman,
my Lords and Gentlemen, allow me to read the resolution
which I have the honour and privilege to move :—

« Resolved, that as the Norfolk Flax Society aims at the
advancement of agriculture, the renovation of trade, and the
employment of the people, it is the opinion of this Meeting
that such laudable designs ought to be vigorously and imme-
diately adopted by every Englishman who be the interest of
his country at heart.”

The magnitude of these objects deserves a more able
advocate. In no part of the kingdom is that advocacy more
needed than in the county of Norfolk and in the city of Nor-
wich. Gentlemen of the county and of the city, I claim your
support at the first annual meeting of our Norfolk Flax
Society, in order that the objects to which my resolution refers
may be carried into effect, and the evils consequent upon an
unemployed population be alleviated, if not entirely removed.
The great and aggravated distress to which thousands of our
fellow-creatures are reduced, has occupied the serious attention
of all reflective minds in every grade of society,—in Parliament
and out of Parliament, in Church and State, from the highest
authority in the realm down to the humble individual who now
stands before you. Did not the Queen, in her address to
Parliament, express the deepest sympathy for her suffering
people? and direct that measures should be adopted for their
relief? Have not both Houses of Parliament taken these
sufferings into consideration, and failed in the endeavour to

31

finda remedy? It is true, the Poor Laws afford a temporary
| = el, but they offer no cure for the national disease. The
_ wound still bleeds, and will continue to bleed until the bread
2. of ‘alcmeinel is displaced for that of honest industry. Gentlemen,
I firmly believe that it is in our power to heal this wound by
the simplest of all means, namely, the cultivation of flax.
is will find employment for the people, and prove a remedy
at legislators have failed to discover. And when we consider
at too much land, money, and labour are appropriated to
» growth of turnips and of barley, I think we may justly
sume that a partial substitution of flax, wpon these grounds
‘al 2, will be a very profitable crop to the farmer; and I
‘pect that we shall hear no more of a starving population and
‘4 f burdensome rates. The market for labour is over-stocked ;

4 Ed as the poor man has nothing else to offer, he is compelled
_ to accept the lowest rate of wages. Under our present mode
_of husbandry his position can never be altered, nor his condition
mded. But by an alteration of that mode in the way pro-
posed, wages would advance, agricultural produce become
of more value, and trade revive ; because, with adequate
_ wages, our labourers would be enabled to purchase those
_ articles at our shops which are supplied by the manufacturers
_ of Norwich, Leeds, Sheffield, Birmingham, Manchester,
aan Stroud, and many more. In this way would
_ they contribute to the maintenance and support of many
q t nd artisans, whose only hope, i in fact, rests on the pro-
& sperity of agriculture. These, in their turn, would become
greater consumers of farm produce, and, by the united employ-
nt of town and country, the consumption of home produce
dof home manufactures would be immense. Thus should
‘emerge from our present difficulties, and England live
in! Gentlemen, let it be our endeavour to cherish that
ich every Briton ought to hold most dear, namely, his native
d. Let us stir up her latent resources, and carry out those
‘igns to which the Providences of God have so clearly directed
mur attention. The soil and climate of this country are
evidently adapted to the growth of flax. The superiority of
the seed to fatten cattle is placed beyond a doubt. ‘The acre-
able value of linseed is equal to the average value of other '

32

crops; but no calculation can be made of its worth when
converted into cattle-food, both as respects the return in the
shape of meat, and the productiveness of the land on which the
manure is spread. With respect to the intrinsic value of the
fibre, I am not prepared from experience to offer so decided an
opinion. I have, however, taken some pains to obtain the best
information upon the subject during the past two years. For
this purpose, J lately went to Ireland, where every possible
facility was offered me of examining the soil, the farmers’
method of preparing flax for market, and every other process.
From all that I saw, and from all that I heard, I cannot doubt
our ability to grow flax of a quality equal to that of any part
of the world. You have all inspected the numerous specimens
of linseed and flax placed upon the table. The seed grown
by ourselves is justly acknowledged to be superior to the
foreign. Mr. Demann, of Belgium, now present, is quite
surprised at some of the specimens which he has seen. Under
proper tillage and preparation, his opinion is that we shall

22 gare

ultimately excel. I have placed before you the most ordinary |

as well as the most costly manufactured flax: though by
no means in such variety as might be produced, yet sufficient,
I trust, to convince you of the demand there always must be
for the raw material. And when we consider that six millions
are annually sent out of this country by our manufacturers to
purchase flax, and millions by our farmers to purchase oil-cake,
at an enormous profit to the foreign farmer, I think we need be
under no apprehension about a market for our fiax, or con-
sumption for our linseed. The consumption of cord and twine
in this city, merely to tie up parcels and packages, amounts to
many hundreds a year; and from inquiries at some of the

shops; I think that I might have said thousands. To supply

this demand a large breadth of land would be required every
year to be cultivated for flax. If so much be required for
Norwich, I leave you to imagine how many acres would. be
needed for the great city of London, without taking into
calculation the consumption of these articles in the rest of the
kingdom. Some employment in this line may be found for our
people; but instead of spinning twine, I trust the time is not
far distant when the citizens of Norwich, famed for their

33

. 4 exquisite ingenuity, shall be employed in manufacturing the
finer articles, and become as unrivalled in the splendour of
their damask linen, as they now are in the elegance of their
. F shawls. Then may we expect happier times for Norwich; and
_ shortly have to congratulate the city on the impetus given to

her damask trade by large orders from Windsor Castle. That
this will be the case I have not the slightest doubt. For as the
county of Norfolk intends to grow flax, the city of Norwich
ought to manufacture flax; as Norfolk has formed a society
promote the growth of flax, Norwich ought also to form a
society to promote the manufacture of flax. Gentlemen of the
eity, your forefathers, whose pictures so thickly adorn these
walls, laid the foundation of many a noble structure that tended
to advance the glory and interest of your ancient town. Let
it be your endeavour to imitate their example; and though a
failure attended the recent attempt to perform a good work
in the erection of a yarn manufactory, you must not consider
that attempt as altogether frustrated, so long as the building
_ Temains to be appropriated to the manufacture of flax. Gen-
q - tlemen of the county, the cultivation of flax will, undoubtedly,
a 4 occasion a partial revolution in our present system of farming ;
_ but this ought rather to be a cause of congratulation than
of alarm; for the ship in which we have sailed so long is
_ about to founder ; let us, therefore, hail the present oppor-
tunity of” embarking in a new one. To carry out the

_ designs of the Flax Society properly and efficaciously, con-
siderable funds will be required. I think that it will take at
least four years before the country can be so firmly established

; to do without the assistance of a society. The Irish Flax
Society is not likely to close its labours in much less time; and,
therefore, I do not see how we, who have every thing to learn,
ean conclude our operations in a shorter period. But amongst
_ the numerous societies established in England, where is there
one that offers the prospect of concluding its labours in four
years? Considering the paramount importance of our society,
_ none can be compared to it more than the shadow can be com-
pared to the substance, Ours is the machine whose main-
_ spring is labour, which sets all our institutions and societies in
_ motion. Give but work to the poor, and from their earnings
D

em pas

34

will they continue to be, as they ever have been, the largest
contributors to our missionary and other philanthropic institu-

tions. For the want of employment the funds of many societies -

are falling off; and our churches and chapels are neglected,
because the poor can neither pay their accustomed contributions,
nor appear in decent clothing on the Sabbath-day. As a cor-
roboration of this melancholy statement, I refer to the report
of the City Mission, to your working Clergy, and to the excel-
lent Minister of Catton New Church. Ought not this lament-
able condition of our countrymen to stimulate us to relieve
their wants? Wants that require no legislative enactments or
government interference to alleviate; but a cordial union of
heart and hand in the working of our Flax Society. Already
the corn-law has reduced the price of bread; but of what avail
is the cry of cheap bread to those who have no money to pur-
chase it? And how is money to be had without employment ?
and where is employment to be found? Not in Norwich, where
so many branches of her manufactures have, from different
causes, become extinct. Nor yet in the country, where the
produce of land so ill remunerates. Itis only to be found in the
cultivation of flax ; this will speedily solve the difficulty, be-
cause it will find employment in the field and work in the city.
The effect of this measure must inevitably tend to advance
the rate of wages, maintain the value of British property, and
preserve that proud position in the scale of nations which we
have so long enjoyed. It will only require a few months to
prove the accuracy of my predictions; for if the country will
afford the necessary support, the seed will be sown in April,
the flax will be ready to pull in July, and the crop, if need be,
prepared for market in August. Hundreds of hands will be
required to~pull and harvest the crop, and thousands more in
the winter months to thrash out the seed from the stalks, to
crush and form it into cattle-compound, and to prepare the
flax through all itsstages for market. Methinks I see the flax-
market at Norwich like the Thursday market at Tandrageé
which I lately witnessed in Ireland, and the farmers busied in
selling flax, and putting the ready money in their pockets.
It was a cheering sight, but not a very brisk day; yet flax to
the amount of three thousand pounds was sold by farmers whose

35

occupations were all extremely small, not one of which, as I
understood, exceeded fifty acres. Who can contemplate such
a glorious return of national prosperity without feeling a desire
___ to participate in the reality, and a determination to afford the
means? ‘To carry out this great, this all-important cause, the
first step must be to engage a person of experience to teach
im ‘our people the art of managing flax.i—Mr. Demann is ready
__ to undertake the office. We have about fifty acres of flax of
Ea last year’s growth, which can be concentrated in some conve-
2 spot, where pupils from various parts may be sent to
; 4 acquire a knowledge of the business, and become qualified, on
their return, to teach others; and, undér the superintendence
Of the Society’s agents, to manage the future crop. In the
__ course of three or four years we shall produce flax of the first
and most profitable description; and thus will be laid the
} . foundation of a system, which, as years roll on, shall add to the
ba wealth, independence, and prosperity of our country.

Sir Epwarp Srracey came forward amid great applause,
__ and seconded the motion. He said, that although in conse-
quence of his infirm state of health he was not able to address
the meeting at any length, yet he could not refrain from calling
_ attention to the subject matter under discussion, which he con-

_ sidered to be of the utmost importance not only to the agricul-
4 _ture, but also to the manufactures of this country. (Hear,
__ hear.)—As it was a very cold day he would not detain the
ie meeting a great while; he would merely observe that flax-
growing had been date Wished and protected by statute in this
__ country from the time of Henry VIII. and Elizabeth to the
eign of George III. Till the middle of the reign of George
IIL. flax was cultivated and assistance was given by the legis-
ig: lature to that cultivation ; but about the middle of the reign of
¥ ‘George III. cotton was introduced, and the consequence was,
_ that flax vanished from use. And what had the cotton manufac-
ture done ?—It had subjected. the agriculturist of this country
& to the payment of enormous sums of money for foreign food
2 j used in fattening cattle, and had beside transferred our trade
_ to Russia, which country now supplies us with fiax and hemp
- for cordage. Mr. Warnes had explained at length the skill
D2

36

and ingenuity exercised in the manufacture of flax much better
than he (Sir Edward) could be expected to do, and he would
therefore not occupy their time any longer. The whole coun-
try was greatly indebted to the county of Norfolk—for what?
why for turnips; and in the cultivation of that valuable plant
now submitted to their notice, he trusted that the county
would set an example to the whole of England, and that the
farmers of Norfolk would come forward to promote the cultiva-
tion of flax, and thus be the means of saving some millions now
sent annually abroad. He hoped the county of Norfolk would
set a noble example that would be followed by the rest of the
country. Let us (said Sir Edward) pride ourselves in being
the leaders in this movement, and then huzza for the county
of Norfolk. I shall not detain you longer, because Mr. Warnes
has explained the whole subject to your entire satisfaction, and
I beg leave to second his resolution.

The Right Hon. Lord Wopenovse rose and said, he had
been requested by the President to propose a resolution—

«That as the soil and climate of England have been proved
to be suitable for the growth of Flax, and as the mode of culti-
vation in Belgium is a system that increases the value of the
plant to an incalculable extent; it is the opinion of this meeting,
that the best possible means be adopted to carry into effect the
designs of the Norfolk Flax Society.”

The Noble Lord continued—I should be most unjustifiable
if I detained you at any length. I can promise you that I will
make only a few remarks on the subject under discussion. I
confess to you that I have devoted little of my attention to this
subject, but I have heard enough and read enough to be con-
_vinced of its great importance in every respect, not only in
giving increased and permanent employment to the poor, which
is the chief consideration, but also in regard to the cultivation.
of flax as a most valuable crop, and perhaps as much as any
thing supplying a cheap manure, thus being calculated to save _
large sums of money. But the only subject I wish to urge is ©
this,—that the whole county should adopt the cultivation of flax —
systematically ; that it will be advantageous to have many local

—8T

ies; that the county be formed into districts, but not too

rof them, to follow up the plan suggested by Mr. Warnes.

ar, hear.)—We are greatly indebted to the President of

is § viety, to to Mr. Warnes, and to all who have interested

themselves in this matter, for the great pains they have taken

bringing the cultivation of flax to the perfection it is about

2 brought to. I sincerely wish them success, and trust that

sir designs will be fully accomplished. I hope that no time

1 be lost, and that funds will not be wanting to carry out the

at designs of this Society to perfection. I will not trouble
further. —The Noble Lord sat — amid great applause.

The Hon. and Rev. R. Witson said—I rise to second the
olution moved by my Noble Friend. When it was first
reste catia I should do so, I felt a difficulty i in eyrccnie to

ry I found that we were likely to be all eine. and.
ho ld not be expected to offer you information upon it; I
: no longer hesitated. When I considered the object
of this Society, several things induced me to believe a it

cenbittty generally. If we take up extensively the cultivation
_ of flax, we shall be enabled to supply the markets and manu-

-facturers with that article. I hope this will induce a better
_ feeling between the manufacturers and the agriculturists.
we" have been grieved to see a considerable degree of ill-
ing 5 between the toe It appears as if there were a

Fad dhtstiners this ill- Mtg will be removed. I have no
bt that, by the growth of flax and by the use of the seed
attening cattle, we shall be enabled to retain in this country
reat amount of capital, which we have been compelled to
snd abroad in the purchase of oil-cake. I have always felt a
ng disposition to support all agricultural societies, for many

s. By an improved system of agriculture we may be
bled to produce as much corn, probably, as we may require
rm for home consumption,—thus making our Old England inde-

38

pendent of the crops of other countries and climates for the daily
supply of that necessary article, corn, required for subsistence :
and I think that, by the cultivation of flax, we shall also be
able to produce animal food for the market at a lower cost to
the consumers, and we may thus see the consumption of meat
introduced more into our cottages. That, I think, will, to a
great extent, increase the comforts of the population of this
country. Allow me to state another reason for promoting the
growth of flax—a reason which appears to me a good ground
for contributing to the support of this Society, and which induces
me to hope that it will receive general encouragement: I mean
the object of providing increased employment for the popula-
tion. If we can promote the cultivation of any crop which
will at once remunerate the occupier of the soil and afford in-
creased employment for the population, that system should be
adopted, as being of the greatest advantage to this country.
For these reasons you must see with how much pleasure I
second the resolution.

H. C. Partringr, Esq,, came forward and said, I have the
honour to move a resolution by permission of the Chairman,

but I will not trespass on your time by treating on matters _

referred to by Mr. Warnes ‘and by the other gentlemen who
have addressed you. All who had the pleasure of being at the
meeting at North Walsham, and those who have seen the spe-
cimens of flax exhibited this day, can have little, if any, doubt
that the soil and climate of this country are suitable for the
growth of that crop, or that it can be beneficially cultivated.
The crop is not only beneficial to the farmer as a crop by itself,
for you will see that it becomes, by proper cultivation, a most
valuable crop; but in regard to the seed also, which has been
proved will be a good and ample means of fattening cattle,
and as affording a plentiful supply of manure for the land.
(Hear, hear).—The growth of flax should not only be regarded
for the value of the fibre and seed, but also asa means of bene-
fiting the land, for no one will doubt that the farmer will use
a plentiful supply of what he grows himself, and therefore the
landlords will not object to it. No one will put his hand into
his pocket for that which he can himself produce on his own

ty

39

a land. These are not the only benefits to be derived from: the

| 7 cultivation of flax. What to every good heart must seem most

desirable, and must rejoice at is, its providing employment for

_ the poor. You have heard of flax being manufactured in this
county, and this must employ a great number of hands; and
= there can: be no one who is not delighted that a profitable

z _ means of employ for the poor has been discovered. I feel sure
that I need say no more to recommend the cultivation of flax,
but as I have been alluded to by Mr. Warnes, who has shown

. asample of flax in straw, grown on poor land, I wish to say

that what Mr. Warnes has stated is perfectly correct in regard

" to the land being almost worthless. The land from which it
__ eame is of the worst description, as it has never been manured,
_ and has been generally under water. I hold in my hand a

- specimen of flax produced from similar straw, and this has

been produced by some men in the parish of Lopham, and

ot according to what a gentleman present has stated, it is worth
from 55/. per ton. This would buy the land many times over.
_ There can be no doubt that the growth of flax must pay better

if cultivated according to the best rules and on the most modern
principles. ‘There can be no doubt that this is done in foreign
countries. The best method should therefore be adopted at
the outset, as it will be of no use to go on blundering from one

_ error to another. The object of the Society will be best carried

out by employing competent, able, and efficient instructors,

a those who fully understand the business ; and it is therefore

4 proposed to engage a competent person to give instruction i in
_ the various details. I will, therefore, move—

a - “ That as the objects of the Society will be best promoted by
the employment of a competent instructor in the growth and

manufacture of flax, a fund be bargeoner by donations and annual

a subscriptions for that purpose.”

nary

-__E. Wopenouss, Esq., M.P., in seconding the motion, did
not intend to enter into the sation at any length. Having re-

éeived a letter requesting him to ascertain, by application to
the Board of Trade, the amount and real value of foreign oil-
cake consumed annually in this country, he had written to Mr,
Gladstone for information on the subject, but in consequence

ee

40

of his being absent from London when the letter arrived, it
was impossible that an answer could be obtained on that day.
Mr. W. expected to receive it in a day or two, and would take
care to have it sent for publication in the county papers. He
could add, both with reference to himself and colleague,
that nothing could give either of them greater pleasure and
satisfaction, than being instrumental in promoting an object_of
such paramount interest, under the circumstances in which the
agriculture of this country was placed. .

The Right Rev. the Lord Bisnop of the Diocese said, he
_had been requested to undertake the pleasant duty of moving
“a vote of thanks to Capt. Rous, for the able manner in which
he had filled the chair on that important occasion, and for
giving so much of his time in promoting the objects of the

Society, to improve the agriculture of Norfolk for the benefit

of all concerned therein. His Lordship could not pretend to
give any opinion on the important subject submitted to the
consideration of the meeting. This only would he say, that
all experiments in agriculture, especially those connected with
science, should be encouraged to the utmost extent and in
every possible way. His Lordship would cordially acknow-
ledge himself a friend to experiments. Ninety-nine cases out
of a hundred might fail, but if one experiment answered its
purpose a great object was gained; and in science there was
this advantage, that if an experiment failed in one instance
for any purpose, there might be gain in another. It should
never be forgotten, that there was not a single fact or experi-
ment that could be thrown away, for what failed in one point
might be gained in another. Thus in regard to the cultivation
of flax, suppose it should be found that flax exhausted the soil,
and this, the Lord Bishop understood, was the principal
objection to its cultivation ; yet, in this age of science and experi-
ment—in this age, when Chemistry was brought into constant
operation, how did they know that they mighes not be led to
some more important facts, the knowledge of which might tend
to improve the nature of the soil, and introduce new manure
that would prevent its exhaustion? If they failed in producing
flax in its utmost perfection, they might gain in manures.

41

erefore every farmer and every person interested in agri-
* ates try the experiment, looking only to present
itage. On these grounds, said the Lord Bishop, I return
¢s on : behalf of this meeting to Captain Rous, and most
heartily do I wish success to any experiment whatever, that
y tend to promote the agriculture of Norfolk and the
erests and ee of the lower orders. (Applause.)

| Hon, W. R. Rous begged to return thanks for the
adsome compliment, and particularly to the Lord Bishop for
manner in which he had proposed the vote, and could
> him that there was no occasion on which he (Capt.
~ Rous) hondd. so gladly receive the compliment, especially from
. one in ine lordship’s station, as head of the Church in this
district. He believed the cause in which they were all engaged
was not inns for the benefit of landowners and tenants, but
Fido for the interest and advantage of the poor; and when he
4 8 y the head of the church in this diocese, with the Dean and
ers of the Clergy present, coming forward to support the
ty, he could not help thinking that their presence and
n was an important recommendation. (Applause.)

_. The meeting then dispersed, and I thought that I had been
_ the happy instrument of laying “the foundation of a system,
‘ =: as years rolled on, should add to the wealth, indepen-
_ dence, and prosperity of our country.” But the foundation
lf was already being undermined; and I soon experienced
2 disappointment too commonly inflicted upon the advocate
*a good work.” For, on the following morning I discovered
t my chief corner-stone had been removed from its place,
1 that I couldneither build upon, nor restore it to its former
ition. ‘That is to say, the Hon. Mr. Rous refused to carry
; the principles upon which the Norfolk Flax Society was
ned, and in which he had taken so conspicuous and praise-
vorthy a part.

We met to form a committee of management, assisted by
the Hon. and Rev. Robert Wilson. The first proposition was,
_ that I should accept the office of secretary, at 50/. a-year,

42

which I refused, offering my services gratuitously, and, as
honorary secretary, to co-operate with a committee composed
only of gentlemen of intelligence. I required, as the first step,
according to the recommendation of Lord Wodehouse, “ that
branch societies should be formed, in order that the whole
county might adopt the cultivation of flax systematically, and
contribute to the funds of the parent society.” Upon this, my
original design, as will be seen by referring to the speech of
the noble lord, I grounded my hopes of success, knowing that
it would be impossible to introduce flax-culture extensively
without branch societies, and funds to defray the expenses of
instruction. ;

An individual more celebrated for conceit than for good
sense, observed, that “ If farmers were to reap all the benefits
that I promised, they were not entitled to pecuniary assistance
for instruction, and that subscriptions were therefore unne-
cessary.” Mr. Rous also opposed the extension of the Asso-
ciation, wishing to confine its operations to the immediate
neighbourhood of North Walsham.

It was in vain that I urged the dishonourable position in
which we should both be placed with all who had taken part
in the proceedings of the previous day. It was in vain that
I warned him against the expending of money in a locality
that was-subscribed expressly for the county. In vain I
referred my ardent supporter of yesterday to his early inves-
tigation of my plans, and to his intimate knowledge of every
circumstance connected with my advocacy of the Flax Cause :
to his letter addressed to the ‘‘ Nobility, Clergy, Gentry, Yeo-
manry, and others interested in the prosperity of the County
of Norfolk ;”” and to his speech so lately delivered in St. An-
drew’s Hall.

These, and many other arguments, I employed to induce
Mr. Rous to resume his original position, I repeat, in vain.

The Hon. Gentleman had, unfortunately, over-night, fallen
into company prejudiced against the flax movement, whose
suggestions and influence over a nervous frame and vacillat-
ing disposition, operated too powerfully to be counteracted by
my remonstrance.

Subsequently, the President requested me by letter to con-

Pacts ities

*

Tie)

43 .

_yene a meeting of the subscribers, for the purpose of proceed-
. ing with the business of the Association. Accordingly, the
day was appointed, and a committee formed, which I pro-
nounced too inefficient to succeed; and therefore desired that
Sir John Boileau, Bart., John Lacon, Esq., of Ormsby, and
_ Mr. Lemon, of Whitwell, should be added to the number ;—

. om lemen whose philanthropy and ability had been proved
us public occasions.
1ate in my endeavour to obtain this acquisition, as”
hiing else that I proposed, I still resolved to carry
a if possible, the — of the Society, with the very feeble

Titietadon will best elucidate. Nor will Mr. Rous com-
‘ _ plain of its insertion, but rather feel grateful for my forbear-
semen in not having added the remainder.

pe tia $i Wednesday, 8th March.
is,

oa he DEAR ee sl was truly sorry to hear that no progress
- was made last week by the Committee in the labours of the
Society ; and more so, because the check arose from some dif-

_ ference between yourself on the one hand, and the rest of the
_ Committee on the other hand, as to the proper mode of con-
_ dueting the business of the Society; and particularly with
reference to the expenditure of the funds of the Society.

__ Ido sincerely hope that you are free from any unfounded
: that the Committee undervalues your honourable

B character, or the high services which you have rendered the
public. You may be assured that every individual of that
Committee duly appreciates your labours.
_ Let me beg of you to take it into your calm consideration
shat the Committee has been regularly appointed for the sole
: ement of the business of the Society and of the Society’s
- funds. The Committee is responsible to the subscribers for
oh shilling expended; it is'therefore but reasonable that it

be the sole authority for contracting debts.

On all points connected with the business of the Society, I
am certain that the Committee will gratefully lend you a will-
ing ear, and will give all the weight to your recommendations

ae
‘J

44

which is due to the zeal you have shown in a good cause, and
to the information you possess. For myself, I most earnestly
hope that you will consent to assist the Society as far as you
can in accordance with the necessary duty of the Committee.
Pray do not take it ill if I remind you that an individual,
however talented, can do no good alone; but only through the
confidence which others repose in him. If the farmers near
North Walsham had not proved your experiments, all your
“writings would have been in vain. If the landowners had not
backed your proposal for a Flax Society, you might have talked
for everlasting to empty benches. What could Cesar have
done without troops, or what could the Duke of Wellington —
have done without the support of the government? And
although the troups would have done less without their gene-
rals, the generals would have done nothing without their
troops. «

_ You are now in this position. If you act in unison with the
wishes of the whole Committee, you can do a vast deal of good
to the country, and you will have a further claim on public
gratitude ; if you withdraw your services you will obstruct for
a time the progress of the Society, and diminish the obliga-
tions we owe to you.

I have written thus candidly, both from a regard to your-
self, and from a deep interest I feel in the welfare of the
Society.

I remain, your’s truly,
John Warnes, jun., Esq. W. Rovs.

March 10. ,

Dear Sir,—Allow me to thank you for your friendly, cau-
tionary, and very interesting letter; and also to beg that you
will accept my apology for troubling you with an answer, as
I shall so soon, I hope, have the pleasure of meeting you at
Norwich. ,

In withdrawing from the Committee of the Norfolk Flax
Society, nothing was further from my intention, as I repeatedly
avowed, than to withhold my assistance, or the slightest par-
ticle of information that I possessed, from the Society. Nor
had I any desire whatever to control the funds of the Society

45

___ beyond the repayment of certain incidental expenses of a trifling
_ nature that might be occasioned in the daily working out of
the business with which I was intrusted, and that could not be
_ foreseen on the committee-days.

_ This discretionary power was denied. I then made several
positions to the Committee, in order to ascertain the real
position in which I was placed.

Ist. That advertisements should be sent to the Norwich
_ papers, informing the public when, and how, information was
to be obtained. —

_ Qndly. That printed directions should be dispersed in the
_ form of circulars, and others also, to invite gentlemen to join
the Society. —

_ 8rdly. That, as Lord Wodehouse had recommended, accord-
_ ing to my plan, as you will doubtless recollect, the establish-
_ ment of local societies, I proposed that the attempt should be
_ made; and that, in case it succeeded in augmenting the funds
_ of the Society, the expenses incurred should be allowed. For
instance, if 50/. were obtained at the cost of two or three, that
‘sum should be allowed out of the 50/.

__ To these propositions I received a tacit negative, éxcept from
Mr. Wilson, who said that he would pay the advertisement out
of his own pocket, rather than authorize the incurring of any
expenses.

Thus bound hand and foot, justice required that I should
be set at liberty, in order that I might act the part of an inde-
pendent friend.

With respect to your admirable similes, pardon my observ-
>» ing that they do not exactly apply to me; for, instead of the
_ general of an army, I am the pilot of a shins of which you are
sega

_ While steering the vessel through rocks and quicksands,
ins erew desire me to alter my course, and submit to their
; directions. I warn them of their danger; but they still per-
4 sist. I therefore resign the helm with honour*lest I should
|
‘

he involved in the disgrace of reducing the ship to a wreck.
‘ I have the honour to remain,

Your obedient servant,
The Hon. W. R. Rous. Joun WARNES.

46

The reader who may be disposed to trace the origin of-the
flax movement, will discover, in the rise and fall of the Norfolk
Flax Society, much food for serious reflection. Those who
may be inclined to regard this narrative as a digression, must
be reminded that I was maligned in quarters where I had no
access, but where the above letters will be the medium of con-
veying my refutation.

All parties, however, will agree in condemning the policy
that excluded me from the Norfolk Flax Society, who alone
was able to conduct it; in proof of which, justice demands a
comparison between my present flourishing fiax establishment
at Trimingham and the dying embers of the Norfolk Flax
Society, best conveyed through the following letter addressed
to the editor of the ‘ Norfolk Chronicle’ :—

Sir,—Several years have elapsed since the meeting of a
society, that I had been instrumental in forming, took place.
It was called the “Norfolk Flax Society,” and was held in
_St. Andrew's Hall, Norwich.

Present were the Lord Lieutenant and the High Sheriff of
the county, the Bishop of Norwich, with a large assembly of
nobility and gentry. |

I had the honour of moving the first resolution, to the effect,
that flax-culture, as a means of employment to the poor, ought to be
vigorously promoted by every true lover of his country.

The success of my advocacy, on that memorable day, was
of short duration: for, in less than twenty-four hours after the
meeting separated, a cloud, charged with mischief, arose to
mar the bright prospects that I had so recently depicted.

Eventually, 1 resolved to pursue alone that path, which I in
vain pointed out as the only way to success.

The cloud is now removed; my work complete; and the
unobstructed sun of prosperity shines upon the flax cause ; the
two main points that I endeavoured to enforce, viz., profitable
employment to the poor and reduction of rates, being clearly
established.

I now invite all thoughtful, prudent, and philanthropic
persons to visit Trimingham, in order that they may see how
far I have carried out the spirit of my resolution, and witness

47

ea ion of the above statements, with the happy effects
onstant work at adequate wages.
+ will also discover that if flax had been cultivated to
os , and in accordance with the plans I recommended,
arish in the county might, at the present time, have
nr ndered as free from rates as Trimingham ; where one
art ie 8 poor rate only, of the past three, at 3d. in the pound,
een required for the support of the infirm, and for Union
+ all hands being employed in dressing flax that would
ise have been maintained in idleness. As a proof,
_Mr. Brown, who has greatly contributed towards the elucida-
or of ii subject, left his farm at Michaelmas, engaged
ther at Rackheath, and took his flax with him. In conse-
quence, several young persons were thrown out of employment;
m: of whom were lately obliged to take refuge in the work-
ase, where they must still have remained had I not received
™ thes my flax establishment.
‘o remove all prejudice would be to alter the construction
human nature: a thing impossible! so innumerable are the
ms springs of opposition. But, justice to the poor, whose
use I advocate, and for whose sake the Norfolk Flax Society
us Wriméd, demands the strictest investigation. I would
j “therefore just observe, that the system of preparing flax for
# is reduced to so great a certainty upon my premises,
T am now able to afford assistance to any part of the
om; and that, under the instruction of Belgians from the
"a ted Courtrai district, young men, women, and children
become expert flax-dressers, earning from 3s. 6d. to 10s.
week. For instance, the wages of Thomas Siely, aged 13,
eed, upon the average, 6s. a week.
; conclusion, allow me to subjoin the copy of a letter, ad-
% es ed to a nobleman on another part of my advocacy, of the
utmost importance to the agricultural interests of the country ;
anc to say that I this week sold seven bullocks, fattened ac-
ling to the system recommended, from the resources of my
farm, that paid 777. for less than six months’ keeping.

2 PisenThe pesple in this neighbourhood were once as
born and as stiff-necked as those who inspect your bullocks,

48

nor would they acknowledge the superiority of the compound-
feeding system, till they had themselves reaped the profits 1
described. Now, they are a pliant, communicative, and I wish
I could add a grateful, race.

But I am richly rewarded by the testimonies of an extensive
and enlightened correspondence ; and it is with pleasure that I
answer your lordship’s present inquiry. 1 wish, however, first
to observe, for the instruction “ of those parties who admit that
your bullocks are doing well, and who will not allow the cheap-
ness of the food upon which they are fattening,” that linseed
can be purchased at less money per ton than the best oil-cake.

For instance, I was offered on Saturday at Norwich linseed
at 43s. per quarter, weighing 30 st., while oil-cake was 111. 10s.
per ton. Now, where farmers are so prejudiced against the
new system as not to perceive the superiority of the pure seed
over the refuse formed into cake with all kinds of rubbish, no
arguments can produce a contrary conviction; and they must
be left, till compelled by circumstances, like many in Norfolk,
to try the experiment.

Your lordship will discover by the above prices, that linseed
and cake are about 1s. 5d. per stone each; and that, if a com-
pound of barley and linseed is made consisting of 4 seed and
2 barley at 9d. per stone [at which price thousands of quarters
may be purchased], it will amount to 7/. 7s. per ton, exclusive
of the water; but, when that all-important ingredient is incor-
porated according to the receipts in my book, the price will be
reduced to 45s. per ton; and those who adopt only this part of
my system, obtain five tons and a half of the incomparable cattle-
compound at the same sum which others give for a ton of com-
parative rubbish.

I do not say that the same effect will be produced trons a ton
of compound as from a ton of cake; but 1 know of no instance
where the superiority of the former st not been acknowledged,
without taking into calculation the advantages derived by con-
suming so large a proportion of native produce.

My Lord, I thank you for having instituted an inquiry into
this subject, which I should not: otherwise have criticised so
minutely, and which I shall expect to turn to some further use.

Hoping that I have succeeded in solving the problem con-

49

od in your Lordship’s note, I have the honour to remain,
bedient servant,

JoHN WaRNES.

16th, 1846. ,

not my intention again to enter the lists of controversy,
in closing this more arduous part of my labours, I am
lantly gratified by the many expressions of benefits con-
y the glorious prospects for the future, and by a mind
18 of right.

g that this letter may find a place in the columns of

I remain, Sir, your obedient servant,

may? Joun WARNES.
wom e th.

Rate ee $3
Jandour must now admit that, if I could achieve so much
isted effort, it is clear that, had I been supported by

every parish in the county might have been similarly
CU nced with my own; and that, if Mr. Rous was jus-
ed in referring the “nobility, gentry, clergy, and yeo-
unry” to the vehement opposition overcome at North
‘alsham, I am equally entitled to direct their attention to the
ory I have obtained over an opposition far more inveterate
a) for God and for my country ; therefore I glory not,
ee the instrument of unfolding a system that will enable
r man again to live by the sweat of his brow, according
orginal decree of Heaven; and the rich man to confer
a the greatest of all earthly blessings, constant work at

e wages.
gt Burn shows in his letters on ‘* Home Coloniza-
,’ the forty-six millions of acres now in cultivation are not
icient to maintain the population, there are millions yet
ncultivated that may be increased in value five thousand
ae appears that there are forty six millions and a half
per taes i in cultivation, and nearly thirty-one millions un-
ul iv ted: sixteen millions were reported by the Emigration

E

50

Committee to be profitable lands. Nearly the whole of the
waste land in Ireland is reclaimable; three millions of which,
that are equal to five millions of English acres, can be brought
to produce a rental of I/. per acre, at an outlay not exceeding
107. per acre. “Thus,” says Mr. Burn, “ in the cultivation
of the land, Shefficld and Birmingham must send their spades,
their pickaxes, and their draining tools; the wheelwright must
find ploughs, harrows, and carts; the iron-founder must
supply the plough-coulters and the axletrees; the saddler
must put on the harness ; Wolverhampton must supply its
chains, Walsall its bits and ornaments; the carpenter must
put up the gates with tools from Sheffield, and hang them
with the hinges and padlocks of Staffordshire ; the hedger and
ditcher who enclose the ground, and the ploughman who
brings it into cultivation, are clothed by Stroud, Manchester,
and Leeds; their hats come from Newcastle-under-Line, their
half-boots from either Northampton or Stafford; they take
their breakfast out of a basin furnished by the Staffordshire
potteries ; Sheffield finds the knife, Birmingham the spoon ;
the merchant traverses the ocean to bring their coffee and
sugar; the engineer finds a coffee-mill, in which the turner
furnishes a handle,” &c. &e.

«The cultivation of the waste lands would undoubtedly
subsist our paupers, repeal the poor rates, and enable the
cultivators to afford provisions at such a price as would enable
our manufacturers to compete with foreign nations, without
ruin to the agriculturist, the government, or the public. Cer-
tainly no remedy could be more injudicious than the clamour
recently raised for the importation of wheat, as though we could
draw none from our native soil. Even without making the
attempt, we set ourselves down for ruined without the aid, of
importation. Like Rome, we conclude that. we must. find
another Egypt to supply us with wheat. Why, the land of
our fathers. which has fed us more than a thousand years, is
now concluded to be ruined. by an overwhelming population,
which, by the last census, is under twenty millions! and a free
importation, which would throw all the land in England out
of cultivation, is said to be the only remedy! | No wonder such
an awful remedy should meet with a direct negative by the

=
we,

t

a:

* >
Rs

51

3 discerning few: for the opulent, who alone could purchase,

would be the only persons who could live; all other classes
without money would starve; and the former, who would soon
find there was no public, would quickly be placed in the
like predicament.”

The tenor of Mr. Burn’s letter is to show that the cultiva-
tion of a portion only of the waste lands might be made to

yield infinitely more than would be sufficient to maintain all

our pauper population, repeal the five millions of poor rates,
and enable the manufacturer to become a suceessful competitor
in the foreign market.

Admirable as are the sound and practicable propositions of
this true lover of his country, I must think that the plan of
cultivating flax offers a relief more particularly suited to the
present exigency than any other; because wherever linseed
is sown, in less than four months, the redundant population
might be employed in preparing the crop for market. So
immediate would be the relief afforded! I therefore advise
all whose incomes depend upon farm produce to grow a small
quantity this spring, in order that they may acquire some
experience in the management of the crop. The seed alone
will repay, and the experience gained prove helpful for
the following year. Forty-five years ago the Belgians were
in poverty and misery. Since that time the encouragement
given to the growth of flax by England has so improved their
condition, that scarcely any poor are to be found amongst

them. Where villages formerly stood towns have been built
up with British gold. And to show the extent to which

money has been sent out of this country, in consequence of the
encouragement given to foreign agriculture and to the em-
ployment of foreign labourers, 1 beg to refer the reader to the
letters of the Messrs. Marshall, where he will perceive that the
average cost of raising and preparing a crop ¢ of the finer de-
scriptions of fiax for market is 13/. 10s. per acre, including 51.

rent, and the average. value 23/. per acre, leaving a clear

profit, independent of the seed, of 91. 10s. per acre. Now it is
reported that the Messrs. Marshall annually import flax to
the amount of one million sterling. Calculating the value of

the flax at only 207. per acre, the gross quantity of acres
E2

52

which this eminent house requires every year is fifty thousand.
And when we remember that there are many other eminent
firms in the kingdom that require proportionable quantities, it
may well be asked, How many thousand acres must be annually
grown to supply the demand? I reply, nearly 500,000, and that
an extraordinary demand would be, directly and indirectly,
occasioned for labour such as the redundant agricultural popu-
lation could not supply.

The most efficacious plan of extending the cultivation of
flax throughout the kingdom would be by the reorganization
of the National Flax and Agricultural Improvement Associa-
tion, of which the following is the prospectus :—

National Flax and Agricultural Improvement Association, formed
for the purpose of affording Instruction and Assistance in the
Cultivation of Flax, the Use of the Seed to Fatten Cattle; Box
Feeding, Summer Grazing, Se. §e.

The nobility, clergy, gentry, and yeomanry, are earnestly
solicited to join this Association, which offers the prospect of
finding immediate employment for a large portion of the re-
dundant population, and of advancing the agricultural and
commercial interests of the United Kingdom.

The National Association was formed at Ipswich on the 3rd.
of November, 1843; on which occasion many specimens of
flax and linseed of superior quality were exhibited from.
various counties. proving that the soil and climate of this
country are peculiarly adapted to the culture of the plant.

From a series of experiments made during the past four
years, and now in extensive operation, particularly in Norfolk,
it has been incontestably proved that a compound of flax-seed,
with grain, pulse, or chaff, for fattening cattle, is far superior
to foreign oil-cake ; and if used in connexion with box-feeding
and summer-grazing, will enable every farmer in Great Britain
to fatten more than double his usual number of stock, and render
him for ever independent of foreign aid, both for food for his
cattle and manure for his land. Hence it will readily be seen that
a more abundant supply of corn. meat, wool, leather, tallow, oil,
flax, and hemp, &c. &c., must be produced, and the merchant,

BS

_ the tradesman, the artisan, and the labourer, reap proportion-_
: Debian with the cultivators of the soil.

. A meeting of subscribers will shortly be convened, to adopt.
le -and regulations for the conduct and management of the
atior Association, based upon the following approved sug-

Ls . That the existence of the Society be limited to the
riod of four years. That auxiliary branches be established
oughout the kingdom. That instruction on the most im-
oved mode of husbandry, the cultivation and preparation of
x, the new system of grazing with compound, summer feed-
» in boxes, &c. &c., be speedily and effectually dissemi-
by the location of experienced labourers for a few
ths where needed, in exchange for others to be taught on
from whence those labourers were sent, that while some

EW. th titensatad parties, would be of the utmost importance.
1 That a weekly paper, containing authentic information upon all
¥ important agricultural topics, be regularly forwarded to every
is is 0

corded. That economy, ETE zeal, and perseverance
the distinguishing features of the Society’s proceedings.
id that ho expenditure of time or funds upon yearly enter-
ments or anything foreign to the direct object be allowed.
adies are also invited to afford their patronage to the
va nal Association, because it is proposed through their
peration to introduce the spinning and knitting of linen
1 in schools, orphan asylums, Magdalen, and other institutions
M e employment is required; and especially those finer
valit: ties of hand-spun yarn for which our manufacturers of lace,
, lawn, cambric, &c. &c., pay many thousands every
I Mt foreigners ; and when it is understood that a woman
n | spin 20s. or 80s. worth of this description of yarn from

54

sixpenny-worth of flax, the importance of introducing such a
branch of business into the above establishments will wont
be perceived.

N.B. The National Association will be cup by

annual subscriptions, donations, and guarantee - -sums—that is.
to say, subscriptions and donations will be immediately re-.

quired to set the machine in motion. But the guarantee sup-
port will only be resorted to in ease of a deficiency in the
Society’s funds, and then only in such proportions as may be
found necessary.
Joun WarRNEs, Jun.,
Hon. Sec. .
Trimingham, near North Walsham, Norfolk.

A few acres of linseed should be sown in different parts of
a district or county, and on different soils, in order to ascertain
those most congenial to the growth of the plant. The seed
will abundantly pay for the experiment ; and although the
straw will probably be ordinary the first year and the intrinsic
value small, yet for the purpose of teaching young persons the
art of steeping, scutching, and preparing for market, &c. &c.,
its value would be great. The flax might be concentrated in
some convenient place for water and for house-room; where
an instructor could be stationed to teach active and intelligent
youths. And thus a number of experienced hands would soon
be distributed, at a little expense, through the country. In-
formation and instruction would also be circulated from one
society to another, and in the course of three or four years we
should be rendered independent of foreigners for a supply of
flax from our mills and oil-cake for our cattle.

What amine of wealth is here placed before the British
agriculturist! What a field is open for the exercise of his
industry and skill! Can he any longer suffer this mine to be
worked, and this field to be tilled by foreign labourers, while
his own call upon him for work in vain? The population
daily increases to an amazing and alarming extent ; for if we
cannot provide employment for the present, where can we find
it for the future labourers? The education of children is pro-

55

1d as a remedy ; but such a remedy, if our present cir-
tances are to continue, would only increase the national
ulties ; because it is impossible to suppose that educated
ds can be made to submit to the degrading operation of
e Poor Laws. Strange anomaly! that the efforts recently
ule to improve the condition of the parents should have
_ Had those efforts been successful, the children could
ucated at the cost of the parents, upon whom alone
“responsibility rests. It is surely the office of
ment to protect the poor from oppression and imposi-
and to see that they can obtain the means 3 of rearing their
lies by their own exertions. )
far the following pathetic remarks of the philosophical
s, King of Poland, are applicable to the present state
r yd I must leave the reader to judge. Should they
‘in any degree to ward off the calamities to which they

4

' their ‘insertion will not be in vain :—

e may say with truth that the people are in a state of
ie humiliation. We must nevertheless consider them
t principal support of the nation. And I am persuaded
t the little hosing we set on them will have very dangerous

the Paton? Who ate they dhad Bear tle buxdene and
iy the taxes? Who are they that furnish men to our armies
G abain in our fields—who gather in our crops—who
1 and nourish us—who are the cause of our inactivity—
refuge of our laziness—the resource of our wants—the
‘of our luxury—and, indeed, the source of all our
e? Isit not that very populace that we treat with so
L rigour?”

e fate of Poland is too well known to need any comments.
the superficial reader it may perhaps appear that I lean
much on the side of the poor; but the discerning mind
"perceive, throughout every page, that, in advocating the
use of the poor, I have at the same time advocated the
_ cause of the rich. And though I have called my pamphlet
G Bl. Voice for the Poor,” I might with equal propriety have
ered it “ A Voice for the Rich.”

56

EXTRACTS FROM ANCIENT AND MODERN bdepatniesss <>
ON THE FLAX CROP.

Tue following extracts from ancient and modern writers on
the flax crop will show that my own views and experience
accord in a remarkable degree with those of former writers—
writers who longed to see the day when their works, instead
of being thrdwn upon the shelves of Agricultural boards,
should find that patriotic support which my present attempt _
has had the good fortune to obtain—writers who lived in
times when the union of agricultural interests was never
resorted to for the benefit of the community. Hence their
constant recourse to Government, and their too frequent dis-
appointment. which, I think, the failure of providing Great
Britain with a supply of home-grown flax commensurate to
the demand does most clearly exemplify. For it is evident
that parliament was not only convinced of the suitability of
our soil and climate to the growth of flax, but also of the
important results that would accrue from its introduction into
the routine of British husbandry.

Flax was first introduced into England by the Romans.
In 1175 it was classed amongst all titheable productions. In
1531 a statute was enacted, requiring that, under certain
penalties, “for every sixty acres of land fit for tillage, one
rood should be sown with flax and hemp-seed.”* From that
period to 1767 many unsuccessful attempts were made to
extend and improve the cultivation and preparation of flax.
In the latter year several thousand pounds were proposed to
be divided amongst the successful cultivators of the plant.
About the year 1798 a bounty of 4d. per stone was given to
claimants. for the growth of flax. “In 1810 a new method of
dressing flax was proposed by Mr. Lee, who not only patented
the invention, but obtained an act of parliament by which the

* In the register of Pulham St. Mary fines paid for the non-fulfilment of
this law are recorded.

57

on of his invention was ordered to be deposited in
+ of Chancery, to be kept secret from the public for
eatin: and then to be produced only by order of the
1 Chancellor, and by him to be examined whenever occasion
uw! . .. . . Messrs. Hill and Bundy, in the year
‘181 likewise dntwiited an ingenious machine for breaking
and tubbing flax; but though this was said to have con-
erable merit as regarded its mechanical arrangement, the
ine has not been found of greater practical utility than
: of Mr.-Lee. ¥

sr centuries past the legislature made repeated attempts
ablish an extensive cultivation of flax and an improved
hod of preparation throughout the kingdom without effect.
attempts to render us independent of other countries,
ver feeble and incomplete, savoured of sound political
xe; for, had they proved successful, England would
y have been compelled to pay an export duty to the
ian Government for the privilege of purchasing their flax
duty that has only been imposed since the alteration of
' 3 a circumstance that Englishmen in general, and
‘ic ulturists in particular, ought well to consider, because
the price of the raw material must necessarily advance, cause
the home-cultivation to become a more lucrative business, and
obtain for the cultivator a reward far a any premium
~ Government could offer.
4 Now, what legislators failed to accomplish in former periods
has, within the last three years, been actually achieved in
and, through the instrumentality of the Flax Improve-
ent Society of that country. Our sister kingdom can now
ie with foreign states in the production of the finest and
st profitable description of flax. This they effected by
. ‘- sagi ng first-rate Belgian instructors,* and by sending young
men abroad to learn the best methods of culture and after-
gement of the crop.
1e causes of failure in former times may be traced to
ious circumstances that do not now exist. In truth, many

rR

ay

58

of those impediments against which our ancestors had to con-
tend have long since been removed. They had but little
incentive to engage in a new branch of business, while with
us it is much otherwise. Our forefathers were comparatively
free from the burdens that press so heavily upon the agri-
culture of the present day, of which by far the greatest is an
unemployed population. We find that no longer ago than

the year 1781 the cultivation of flax was récommended on the .

score of increasing our population, by inducing “numbers
from the Continent to settle in England, as a great national
advantage.”* And the landowners of Argyleshire are also
reminded that “the riches or productiveness of their estates
must depend more on the number of the people, than of the
sheep, by which they are occupied.” + |

Formerly the value of linseed, and the chaff from the bolls
as cattle food, was utterly unknown. Both were disregarded,
and cast into the steeping-pits with the stalks. If a little of
the seed were at any time saved, it was always sold to the oil-
mill, never consumed on the farm. The only chance, therefore,
of remuneration centred in the fibre. Hence the dreaded
exhaustion of the soil, and the prohibition of its growth found
in old leases.

But to us flax is a double crop, the most important part of
which is the seed. For, admitting that the fibre would obtain
more money at market, yet the seed being consumed by cattle
on the land where grown, its influence is diffused over the
whole farm, and it returns to the pocket of the farmer a ten-
fold greater profit in the shape of meat, corn, &c.

In former times the exercise of agricultural skill and science
was extremely limited; and, whether flax or wheat, the ex-
hausting effects of a good crop were not easily remedied;
now agricultural slsll and science have advanced in an extra-
ordinary degree, aided. by industry, learning, and chemical
research, so that deterioration of soil consequent on any crops
is no longer to be feared. Then sufficient hands were scarcely
found to till the land; now we have an overwhelming popu-

* See letter signed Dorsetshire Gentleman.
¢ Agricultural Survey of the county of Argyle.

59

d employment for which all the skill of scientific
atin me efforts of a powerful government, are at a

| sito. tha indirect advantages of growing flax that I
ld peebisact: public attention, because they are infinitely
r than the direct. Nor can they be rightly estimated
perience has made them sure. The direct return in
: is. a trifle compared with the immeasurable benefits
at must accrue from an employed population. I have
own in my writings the value of the flax crop in this and in
re rn countries. Also, that five hundred thousand acres are
“a ed to supply the demand of this country alone. Now
e we consider how inadequately the soil remunerates

sio n of trade, ’it surely must be acknowledged that the
‘ sliniati of such an immense breadth of land to the
ed this. pate plant would be attended with the most

1 ty i flax of foreign farmers, to the employment
“reign labourers, and to the encouragement of foreign
ulture.

scheme undoubtedly appears chimerical to many; but
t to be remembered that mankind is generally more

5 did the substitution of cattle-compound for foreign
ce undergo the ordeal of a vehement opposition; but
© opposers have become its most zealous advocates; and
ture to predict that similar results will attend the culti-
a of flax. -

ly motives for inserting extracts from the writings of others
O show the progress made in the culture of flax, and to
> pint my views and arguments are neither new not
ary, but are borne out by the reasoning of powerful
minds: Jong since removed from the prejudices and politics of
the ® present day.

60

I select, first, from the ‘'Transactions of the Board of Agri-
culture’ a letter written about seventy years since by Robert
Somerville, Esq., of Haddington, in East Lothian. Had it
fallen into my hands earlier it would have obviated much
trouble, but could not have been offered at a period more
opportune. He observed :—

“Flax is an article so essentially necessary to the British
Kingdoms, that it is matter of astonishment the cultivation of
it should be so much neglected, and the management even of
the small quantity that is cultivated so very defective.

«The liberality of Government has, for many years, held

forth great encouragement for promoting the growth and.

manufacture of this necessary article, by expending large sums
in bounties ; notwithstanding which, the object so much desired
has by no means been obtained to the extent that could be
wished ; the cultivation being still extremely limited, and the
management. in every stage, both of the culture and manufac-
turing into flax, very defective. This is the more to be
regretted, as there can be little doubt that immense quantities
might be raised in Britain with little labour, and that too upon
soils where hardly any thing else will grow; and every part of
the management, from the time of sowing till it is manufac-
tured into flax, very easily taught to the country people.

“The accomplishment of an object so truly desirable, weuld
be attended with the most salutary effects by affording employ-
ment for an increased population, and materially lessening our
dependance upon other nations.

“The purpose of the following pages is, first to give a general
sketch of the present mode of cultivation and managing flax,
then to enter into the detail of the principal operations, point
out what appears defective in each, and offer some hints for
improvement.

“ No regular system is at present pursued by those who cul-
tivate flax; and very little attention is paid either to the
nature of the soil upon which it is sown or the preparation of
that soil: exeept in a few instances, it is cultivated upon a
very contracted scale, seldom more than an acre,or two being
in the possession of one person, and in many cases it does not
exceed an half or a quarter of an acre, as may be seen by

61

ng over the premiums awarded by the honourable board

padBeient for producing a due Saisie of grain and
necessaries of life, can with safety be withdrawn from
purpose and employed in any other way. Humanity as
as sound policy forbids the attempt; the effect certainly
Id be that of enhancing the price of provisions, a calamity
ch has already been but too severely felt. This considera-
m, though it may deter proprietors and farmers from using
¢ good arable lands in that way, does not preclude the idea
‘ing flax to a great extent ; at present there are immense
ts under the denomination of moors, mosses, swamps,
tes, &c., upon which flax and hemp may not only be suc--
essfully raised with little labour and at small expense, but
e tillage and other operations given for the flax-crops will
tly facilitate their improvement and put them in the
t train for the culture of grain, &c.
Iti is well known to those who have had much experience
_ in raising flax and hemp, that very large crops of both may be
Fecaned from lands of the above description, not only with
pay but advantage to the soil. Property of this sort is
lowed to remain in a state of nature; in some cases, from an
that it is not worth improving, sind in others on account
the great labour and heavy expenses of purchasing lime and
e ee sufficient to render it fit for carrying grain.—
unately flax requires no such expensive preparation.
lage alone, and the cost of the seed, are all that are neces-
ry; esa the crop in general, when properly managed, will not
ily repay these but afford a profit sufficient to enable the
tor to purchase lime or other manures for his future
. In that way a double benefit will result to the com-
nity ; first by keeping great sums of money in the country
are yearly sent abroad, and at the same time furnishing
an abundant supply of an article that cannot be done without;
ad secondly, by ase and holding out an incentive for the

62

«In a paper formerly presented to the Board of Agriculture,
and which is now published in the report of their committee on
the subject of potatoes, notice is taken of the ease with which
that valuable root may be cultivated on waste and unim-
proved soils, and the advantages that may arise from the
practice pointed out. Perhaps the attainment of that important
national object, the cultivation of waste lands, will be more
promoted by the general introduction of flax. or potatoes as
first crops, than by any other means; neither of them require.
any expense except seed and tillage; they increase the ma-
terials for several valuable manufactures, furnish a wholesome
and nutritious article of food, afford a profitable return to the
cultivator, and give employment to many hands.

«To those who are judges of the real interests of their country,
the importance of what is above mentioned will be evident,
even if the cultivation of flax were confined merely to supply-
ing ourselves; but perhaps the matter ought to be carried
further, and Britain might soon be able to rival Holland, &c.,
in supplying other nations. The soil of this country is at least
equally fertile, and the climate as genial as that of Holland or
the provinces on the shores of the Baltic ; why then should the
crops of flax raised here be more scanty, or the quality inferior
to what is produced in those parts? The only thing wanting,
seems to be a knowledge of the method of managing the crops,
in which the Eritish, notwithstanding every attempt to the
contrary, are still extremely defective. :

«The quantity of flax raised in Britain is not only small, but
the seed from which even that small quantity is raised is annually
imported either from Holland or the Baltic, from an absurd
-and erroneous opinion that after seed has been once sown in
this country the produce is unfit for that purpose afterwards.
How such an idea came to be entertained at first it is difficult
toimagine. Britain is well known to be famous for the growth
of grain and other vegetables; why then should it be incapable
of producing flax, an article that thrives at great perfection in
Holland and elsewhere, upon worse soils, and in much more
inhospitable climates? Were it a matter of which any doubt
could be entertained, the subject is sufficiently important to
entitle it to acomplete investigation.. To those, however, who

63

aainted with the soil and climate of Holland, and other
from whence flax is imported into this country, and who
e of making a just comparison between them and
fain, such an inquiry will appear superfluous, as the
tage is decidedly in favour of the latter.
oe seems to be that the Dutch, who have been long in
S¢ sibm of that trade, and who have, in consequence, arrived
ner degree of perfection in the management of flax in
> different stages, both of its growth and manufacture,
nabled not only to raise and dress it much better than we
-ean bring it into the market at a cheaper rate; and
y have found it a most profitable article, they asus in-
_ dustriously propagated an idea, which has been as readily be-
lieved in this country, that both the seed and flax raised in
; in are greatly inferior to what is produced i in Holland.
It must be admitted, that where the crop is cultivated for
sake of the flax only. it is generally separated from the
ound at so early a period that the seed has made very small
ress in ripening, and of course would, upon trial, be found
runfit for the purpose of sowing next year. While this
ice (for which no reason that is completely satisfactory has
been assigned) continues, a new supply of seed will be an-
lly required; but I shall endeavour to show, in a subse-
ent part of this paper, that with proper management, and
thout aor additional expense, it is possible to unite the ad-
; of well-matured seed, and a valuable crop of flax.
ane no visionary idea, as it is done in Holland and else-—
arf year; and the whitest, most durable, and easiest
shed flax produced in those parts, is from crops where the
oversea completely ripened.
“Tt has been argued, and with some degree of plausibility,
it where the seed is ripened, the quality of the flax is not
ily worse, but the soil is also much more exhausted than in
where it is pulled green... At first view this argument
ears well founded ; and certainly, if flax were pulled while
i sin flower, the exhaustion of the soil would be infinitely
ess than when the seed is allowed to ripen; but when it is
nsidered that at the usual time of pulling, the seed is not

64

only formed, but has made very considerable progress, if a
careful inquiry is made, it will be found, that the crop has in
that stage drawn as much oil and other useful principles from
the earth as it possibly can do. For though the seed of the
flax at that period contains less oil than it does when completely
ripened, yet that portion which is deficient in the seed, will be
found to exist in the stalk in the form of a mucilage which the
vessels of the plant, aided by the opefation of light and heat,
would soon have converted into oil also. If this reasoning is
sustained (and some trials which I have made go a great way
to support it), the exhaustion of the soil must be the same in
both cases; the only difference is, that by allowing the crop to
remain in the ground, vegetation is continued till the plant is
perfected, and a complete separation of its component parts
takes place. By this separation the oil will be deposited in the
seed, the aqueous juices will be dried, and exhaled by the sun,
the stalk and flax being deprived of these will assume a white

appearance, and the gummy mucilaginous juices being ex- |

hausted, little or no impediment will remain in the separation
of the flax from the stalk; for, as I will afterwards show, one of
the principal obstacles to the separation of the flax from the
stalk, arises from the glutinous nature of the juices contained
in green flax. With regard to the flax being ofa coarser qua-
lity, when the seed is allowed to ripen, than when it is pulled
green, I have no hesitation in saying that this isan error. I
will even go farther, and assert, that the ripening of the seed
may not only be attempted with perfect safety, but that the
flax will be whiter, and every operation it has to go through
facilitated thereby; but this will be illustrated more at large
in a different part of this memoir: the only thing intended
to be inculcated in this place is, that flax-seed of the best
quality may be raised in Britain without injuring the flax or
exhausting the soil more than is commonly done for crops
where the flax is pulled green. Such are the ideas that have
occurred to me, in considering this very important branch of
the rural economy of Great Britain, and which I now submit
with all possible deference to the Honourable Board of Agri-
culture. I trust that they will ultimately lead to a complete

65

| tific examination of the subject, and that a system of
at will soon be established upon solid and durable
points seemingly most worthy of minute investigation
' ene : Maas

: The p practicability of raising flax upon mosses, moors,
te “ea with profit to the cultivator, and as a step to
2 improvément.

“To ascertain what benefit would arise from sowing flax
tlier period of the season than is done at present.

To ascertain whether the mode of pulling flax, above
out, bs better calculated to separate the long from the

a iecinine whether the flax that has nies the
ed contains less mucilage and colouring matter than that
nich | is pulled green; and which of the two requires the
tes' labour i in the manufacturing.

To ascertain by careful experiments the best and most
s of watering flax, so as to produce an easy separa-
tween it and the husk or stalk, and at the same time
if the mucilage, colouring matter, &c., contained

. To determine experimentally whether flax that is sown
F

Nt emereet

66

thin, and grows tall and strong in the stalk, is inferior to that
which is thicker sown and smaller in the stem.

«10th. To try whether any improvement can be made upon
the rollers of the flax-mills, so as to break the husk as much
as possible, and by that means render the separation between it
and the flax more easy.

“11th. To try whether any improvement can be made in the
mode of scutching, so as to prevent the flax from being wasted
and broken in the operation.

«N.B. I am of opinion improved rollers at the flax-mills,
with very small deep fluting, would render the scutching less
severe.

“12th. To determine comparatively whether long or short
hickles make least refuse in dressing flax. I think short hickles
would dress it equally well and waste less of it.

“13th. Todetermine by fair trials whether the use of a great
number of hickles is more profitable than putting the flax

5 i ieee a aca

through only two, three, &c., beginning with very coarse ones ©

and ending with the finest.

«‘Such are the points respecting flax management that seem
to me most deserving of experimental inquiry, and the
thorough investigation of which promises to afford sufficient
data for laying the foundation of a more perfect system than
the present.

“ Rosr. SOMERVILLE.”

Sincerely do I rejoice in being the instrument of drawing
from obscurity the above important letter. Important be-
cause, if the arguments it contains in favour of the cultivation
of flax were applicable to the times in which Mr. Somerville
lived; with how much greater force may they be urged upon
our present consideration, with a population nearly double,
and a yearly increase of about 400,000—a population for whom
there is no prospect of finding regular employment except
through the introduction of a new and permanent branch of

business. In a national point of view, one more suited to the

67

2, and genius of the people, could not possibly have
1 than that of an extensive culture of flax upon
v which I have so long recommended; a business
y grade of the British community contributes, more
oeeeata in foreign countries, to the advancement of
Tae It is true that we export linen to the
t of several millions a year; but it must always be
bered that we first import the raw material to the yearly
t of five millions. To retain this enormous sum is the

} ay.which. the National Flax Association was formed.
e personal in proving, beyond controversy, that we
> this raw material. And, when we consider that
“a our countrymen are, at the present time, reduced
° most aggravated distress, it cannot be doubted but that

e phila athropy of the British public will respond to the call,
a a co-operate with an Institution through which every pos-
ony ae will be offered to the growers of flax.
tof knowledge as to the best methods of preparing
e ay pee sto have been the main cause of former failures ; 5
id the repetition of which, by the location of competent
tors, will be the care of the National Association.

e advocacy of this great cause no longer rests upon my
vidual efforts, but upon the sound, thinking, and intelligent
t of the community ; upon minds that perceive the vast-

nes erie undertaking and are willing to lend their powerful
aid in carrying it out. The prospect of success is before us;
ynd- tly anticipate that time and circumstances, under
e of a merciful Providence, will bring about a
malisation. :

‘h walioting letter was taken from the ‘Gentleman's
gazine’ of 1742 :— .

| e Produce arising from One Acre of Ground sown with
_ Flax-seed considered.

ybele, who was no other Sion the Earth, was, with
eason, looked upon as the Mother of all the Gods, be-
se it is fiom the due cultivation of the earth that all sub-
7 F 2

68

lunary blessings (the only blessings which the Heathens
thought of) are derived.—The Chinese, who are, in their civil
polity, the wisest people that ever existed, esteem Agricul-
ture * to be the root of all power and riches; and however
Commerse may seem, in this or any other country, to rival
Agriculture, yet it is plain that if it were not for the latter
the former could have no object.

There is nothing more plain than that the land of Great
Britain is the foundation of all our riches, power, and com-
merce ; ’tis to us the Mother of all the Gods, and ought as such
to be venerated by the legislature and every set of men.

I shall not attempt to prove this from the well-known ealcu-
lations of the importance of wool and other branches of manu-
facture, but confine myself to that branch which, I have often
said, I profess alone to understand, I mean the Linen trade.
For this purpose I shall endeavour to calculate the vast
advantage arising from that trade, by considering the vast pro-
duce arising from the cultivation of one acre of ground sown
with flax-seed.

Great Britain not only produces the largest crops of flax,
but the toughest and finest of any in the world; our soil is so
proper for it, that unless the farmer mismanages his flax in
reaping, watering, or grassing, it is not in his power to raise
coarse flax.

On the supposition then that the farmer shall apply the
same skill in choosing of land proper for a crop of flax as he
would do for wheat, I take it that an acre of land, at a medium,
will produce 50 stone, Dutch weight, of flax; and an acre that
shall produce but 30 stone, I take to be amongst the worst of
crops, though I have known an acre to produce 1C0 stone.

I shall suppose this 50 stone to be of such a fineness as to
be capable of being manufactured into cambrick at 10s. per
yard. This 50 stone Dutch weight will produce 25 stone Eng-
lish of fine flax, fit for the said cambrick, and 12 and a half of
inferior sort, fit for linen, at 2s. 6d. per yard; besides 12 and
a half of the coarsest sort, fit for making linen at 8d. per yard.

* See Du Halde’s: Description of China, Vol. I. of Agriculture, and the
Privileges of the Husbandmen, p. 172; Declarations of the Emperors in Fa-
vour of Agriculture, pp. 457, 459.

69

_ The 25 stone of fine flax will yield 2000 spindles of yarn, at
indles in the pound ; which wrought in the finest reed, viz.,
), will produce 2388 yards of cambrick at 10s. per yard,
x to 11947.
612 stone and a half of the second sort of flax will pro-
duce 20( spindles of yarn, which, when wrought in a 1500 reed,
will isla 452 yards of linen at 2s. 6d. per yard, and this
nts to 56/. 10s.
he 12 stone and a half of the coarsest flax spun into yarn,
wo pounds per spindle, and wove in a 600 reel, will pro-
duce 1129 yards of linen, which, at 8d. per yard, amounts to
32/. 12s. All these sums make no less than 1283/. 2s., the pro-
uce of one single acre of flax.
That the computation of 50 stone to an acre of flax is mode-
e, I appeal to all the flax-raisers in Yorkshire and Lincoln-
e; that 10s. a yard for the finest cambricks is a low valua-
aE a to all the linen-drapers in London; and that
ations of the produce of the yards from the several
»s of flax and yarn are just, I appeal toall the spinsters
ints in Great Britain and Ireland.
‘To what an immense sum would this produce amount, did
: suppose an acre to produce |00 stone instead of 50, and the
se mbrick “ 15s. or 18s. per yard instead of 10s.! Nay, farther,
Pahbuld: we suppose that this flax was manufactured into lace, I
— dor a but we might swell the reckoning above a hundred
pp aE ‘shall now — how much an acre of the worst flax
™ st produce, when manufactured into the meanest sort of
nen ; a case, that though itcan scarcely happen in this country,
_ for argument’s sake, I shall admit.
. will not be denied that, of all flax, the Riga and Peters-
xh is the coarsest ; that ofall linens the fabric of the Dundee
( 1 is the poorest and meanest ; that Riga and Petersburgh
x is of a sufficient quality, and is commonly used for the
bric of the Dundee linen; and, lastly, that 30 stone of flax
‘an acre is a very badcrop. This 30 stone of flax then, sup-
sed to be the produce of an acre, will yield 240 spindles of
in, at two pounds to the spindle; and this 240 spindles,
rought in a 400 reed, will produce 1152 yards of linen,

70

which, when whitened, and made into buckram, is worth 7d.
per yard, and amounts to 671. 4s. i

But as this supposition consists merely in speculation, and
cannot be so low in fact, because the worst flax that grows in
Great Britain is of infinitely a finer quality than the Riga and
Petersburgh flax, and that the refuse or tow of the worst
British flax is of a sufficient quality for the fabric of Dundee
linens, I shall proceed to show what sum the produce of an
acre of flax may be supposed, at a medium, to save or yield to
these kingdoms. ah.

But, before I go farther, I must inform my reader of a cir-
cumstance, which, though but very little known, he may rely
upon as an absolute certainty, and that is, that. though the
quantity of flax an acre will produce depends entirely on the
quality of the soil and cultivation of it, yet the fineness of the flax
depends almost solely on the conduct of reaping, watering, and
grassing of it: and if all these parts are conducted with the
same judgment and discretion that a British farmer usually
bestows on his other branches of husbandry, he may lay his ac-
count with 50 stone of flax on an acre one year with another ;,
and that his dressed flax will spin to twospindles in the pound ;
and if that shall be the case, the computation will be as fol-
lows.

The 50 stone of fiax will yield 25 stone of dressed flax, fit for
linen at 4s. 6d. per yard; 12 stone and a half of second flax, fit
for linen at ls. 8d. per yard; and 12 stone and a half of the
coarsest flax, fit for buckram, at 7d. per yard.

The 25 stone of dressed flax will yield 800 spindles of yarn,
two spindles in the pound. These 800 spindles of yarn,
wrought in a 2100 reed, will yield 1238 yards of linen, and
computing each of these yards at 4s. 6d., a very moderate
price, the amount will be 278/. 11s.

The 12 stone and a half of second flax will produce 100
spindles, at 40 cuts to the pound; the 100 spindles, wrought
in a 1200 reed, will produce 266 yards of linen, and each yard
at 1s. 8d. amounts to 221. 3s,

The 12 stone and a half of coarsest flax will produce 60
spindles, at two pounds of flax to the spindle; the 60 spindles,
wrought in a 400 reed, will produce 576 yards of linen, which,

71

whealoess, at 7d. per yard, yields 16/. 16s.; and
e articles thrown together make 3172. 10s. as the
ve of an acre of flax; and this, or near to this, without
‘straining: “the argument, may be supposed to be the medium
the pan acre of British flax will produce. For though it should
, that linen at 4s. 6d. per yard is above the medium
British flax could be manufactured to, yet when it is con-
= though 3s. or 3s. 6d. should be rather said to be
, yet as the increase of the number of yards would
set in proportion to the decrease of the value of the
it would make but a trifling variation in the account.
But to conclude, as it is a certain truth, that every acre of
< in Flanders, taking one acre with another at a medium,
‘not produce good 300/. in manufactured goods to that
try, and that Great Britain does naturally produce as rich
tops, and of as good a quality, not to say better, than Flan-’
ers; I see no reason why we may not conclude that an acre of
A perly cultivated and manufactured, will yield the same
tage to Great Britain that it does at present to Flan-
nT ew saeagpaia is in our power, by suitable encouragements,
that manufacture out of the hands of the Flemish,
a Girehere iSeemerly done the woollens.
Ef. I am, Sir, yours, &c.
1749. SamvELt Homespun.

e in the County of Perth.— By James Robertson, D.D.

C culture of flax is universal in this part of the kingdom,
s not carried to such an extent in any other place as in the
ets of Stormont, the west end of Strathmore, and Athol.
farmers i in other places generally grow some for their own
5 and where the land is more favourable for that plant,
y are able to supply those whose soil does not raise it to
) a0 age. ‘The clay land seems to be of too close a texture
> Eos tender roots, and binds too much to allow the fibres to
pand themselves in quest of nourishment. The light sandy
on the other hand, is too weak to carry a heavy crop, and
too much exhausted by it to render the lint crop a sufficient

- La» >
“Teal Y
ae |

1 &

72

recompense for the chance of failure in the subsequent crops.
The fittest soil for lint is a deep loam or rich haugh, on a moist
bottom, where the pores are not so close as in clay or till, and
the strength of the soil fully equal to the food which the plant
requires.

The foot of every brook in the Highlands, where the water
runs slowly, and plenty of sediment is deposited, making an
annual addition to the soil, carries amazing crops of lint. On
the banks of our large rivers, where the land is occasionally
flooded by back-water, the lint is generally a good crop: and
it is raised successfully, the second crop after good clover ley,
which saves weeding; but this ought to be sparingly tried,
because it is a bad rotation, unless a fallow crop succeed.

In those countries, from which the greatest quantity of flax
and of seed is imported, the most favourite soil for this crop is
on the banks of large and gentle-flowing rivers, which, by their
flooding, have, in the course of ages, formed the richest and
deepest mould. This may show us what is its native soil, and
where it can be cultivated with most profit in this country.

In those parts of the county where wheat is plentifully pro-,

pagated, the fiax husbandry is less attended to. Judgment is
discovered in this practice, because both crops scourge the
ground: and in a close rotation an intelligent farmer can
scarcely introduce both.

In the Carse of Gowrie, Mr. Donaldson says that flax is
cultivated in small quantities, and sells from 92. to 12/. the
acre, when disposed of before pulling.

If linseed be sown, with an intention to let the flax remain
to carry ripe seed, it ought to be thin, that the plants may
have plenty of air, be in less danger of lodging, and have room
to grow to their full size. If it be sown on purpose to have
fine soft flax, it should be sown pretty thick, that the plants
may rise the closer together, may grow slender and tall, which
adds much to the fineness of its quality. Another cireum-
stance worthy of notice is, that if the saving of seed is the ob-
ject, the flax must stand so long on the field, to bring the seed
to maturity, that the rind becomes coarse and dry; and if the
flax is the object, the crop must be pulled somewhat green, to
preserve its fine glossy quality; in which case the seed has not

73

e to arrive at geetection) So that it is scarcely possible to
silky flax and ripe seed from the same crop.
Although the farmer does not choose to risk the quality of
hie nt, by allowing the seed to come to maturity, yet the seed
ov ‘ough t to be rippled off, after the lint, in the sheaves, has dried
so much, that this operation may be performed without tear-
the ring; and this seed may be sold to the oil-mill for
having the oil extracted. The cakes are an excellent food for
tle, or may be used on grass-lands as a top dressing.

oft water is best for steeping lint; and it is sufficiently
sred when the reed breaks without bending, and the rind
ts easily from the reed. It is absurd to leave the lint a
ain number of days invariably in the canal. When the
sx is warm and the water is soft, it is much sooner ready
an 1 otherwise - 'The longer the water has been let into the
anal, before the lint is imuiersed into it, the more rapid the
refaction. Lint is ready to be taken up from the field,
_ whenever the bark blisters and rises from the reed.

4 In order tosave the seed of flax, some persons who are know-
4 the business recommend to set up the lint sheaves, after
| pulling it, in stooks, like grain, and when thoroughly winn to
stack it until the next spring. The seed is then easily rubbed
_ off by a roller, without injury to the flax, by putting the sheaves
~ head to head. The profit on saving the seed is estimated to
he from 5/. to 6/. per acre. The farmer, by this process, has
the whole summer before him to water and dress his lint, with-
out encroaching on the operations of the autumn in these

In the latter end of October, 1795, I observed vast fields of
it in all that tract of country between the Seedlaw hills and
the Grampians, and not a little in other places, lying spread

pon the ground till the grass had almost covered it. If this
be the general practice, it is ina high degree prejudicial to
_ the quality of the lint. The excessive rains of that autumn
z have prevented the farmers from getting their flax dried,
after it was fully grassed and long enough on the field. But
_ why was it not set upon end? Why were there no attempts
y _ Biode to expose it to the wind during any intervals of dry
- weather ? In the course of two months there must have been

74

some intermission of the rain. An enterprising farmer will
seize every favourable moment to forward the operations in
which he is interested, and not sit, with his hands across, wait-
ing for a long tract of serene weather, which may not come,
till his all be lost. In the rainy climate of our insular situa-
tion, surrounded with high mountains, the business of the
husbandman must often, in any season, particularly in harvest,
be done in snatches, or not done at all. There are favourable

moments in all the business of life, especially in farming, which

if once past, a similar opportunity may never recur. I knew
a farmer, in such a season as is here alluded to, who saved his

crop, while his neighbours lost theirs, by employing his people

to work all night, and allowing them to lie by all day, because
the nights were fair and clear, with some wind and frost, and
the days rainy.
In watering lint it is not uncommon to give it too little time
in the canal, and too much on the field. It were a more sen-
sible and safer procedure for securing the crop, and better also
for the quality of the lint, to let it le in the water until it be
fully ready, and either not to spread it all, or to give it only
a short time on the grass. It might be set upon end, like the
geats of corn, and exposed to the wind as soon as the water
had dropped from it, for a short space, on the brink of the
canal; and if there was any doubt of its being fully watered,
a little more time might be given it in this situation. This
is the practice abroad in the lint-countries, and in some places
at home. The lint is thus watered equally, which is hardly
possible on a field, where the under part, which is always
buried in grass and corroded with dew, if it remains long in
that situation, must be rotten before the upper part be suffi-

ciently done; and perhaps the whole may be lost in a rainy

season before it can be got up. By that management the
silky gloss and green colour of the flax is equally and more
effectually preserved. It is a mere deception to suppose that
bleaching lint on the field will facilitate the bleaching of the
cloth. No cloth is so easily or so uniformly bleached as that
made of lint, which is fully and equally watered in the canal.

75

_ Agriculture of the West Riding of Yorkshire. By
ole eam Robert Brown, farmer.
—This j is a plant which has never been popular in
and notwithstanding the premiums which have been
bestowed upon those who raised it, the quantity
y sown does not appear to be on the increase. Many
this island are naturally fitted for producing it, and
e than that large tract of ground upon the banks of
ie, situated in this Riding. In the neighbourhood of
y a considerable quantity is annually raised; and from
he i t of the claims given in to the clerk of the peace for the
st Riding it appeared that the parliamentary bounty was
din the year 1793 for no less a quantity than 59,000
From our own experience (having formerly sown
es with flax) we can say with confidence that, upon a
ger soil, no other crop will pay the farmer better than flax ;
if, sue pains and attention are bestowed upon the pulling,
tering, and scutching, flax of as good a quality may be
duced at home as what is imported from Holland or the

lupois, after it is clean scutched. This operation is
formed by the hand in the West Riding, there being no
tian a in that part of the country for this purpose.
m bet toe fox is allowed to stand for seed, which of course ~
ders the flax of less value.

ve have found inferior soils, such as new broken up muirs,
Ww Ht fitted for raising seed as others of a better quality;
y have this advantage, that while the rent is but small,
» tre cable of weeding them is equally trifling. Besides,
d and flax ought never to be attempted together; when
former is intended the ground ought to be sown much
nner, so as the plant may have sufficient air to fill the bolls ;
ereas, when the flax itself is considered as the object, it
zht to be sown much thicker, to prevent it from forking and
oming coarse; we believe a neglect of these things has con-

76

4

tributed to render this valuable and necessary plant not so
profitable as might, from the public support bestowed upon it,
have been expected.

The uncommon attention paid to the cultivatan of flax in
this country, especially in the districts mentioned in the be-
ginning of this article, will appear from the annexed table,
with which I was favoured by Mr. Arbuthnot, Secretary to
the Trustees for Manufactures and Fisheries in Scotland.
When one considers, besides the number of yards of linen
cloth mentioned in the table, what quantity the inhabitants of
the country must use for their own wear, which never comes
to market, and is not stamped, and also the vast quantity of
linen yarn that is sold to manufacturers of chequed goods in
Glasgow and elsewhere, the returns from the culture of flax
is a matter of great moment to this part of the kingdom, and
will, in some measure, justify me in dwelling so long on this
subject.

It must be highly gratifying to every person who wishes
well to his country to observe the progressive industry and
the increasing wealth of a single county, in only one article, so
well authenticated. What must be the growing prosperity
of the county of Perth, if equally successful in a variety of
other articles! How rapid the progress of the property of
Great Britain, supposing all its counties to keep pace with
that of Perth!

So great is the profit sini from flax, that one gentleman,
who is in the foremost rank of improvers in the eastern part
of the county, expressed an opinion that the value of the flax
manufactured into home linen, stamped linen, and sold in yarn
in the shire of Perth, was equal to the whole land-rent.* As
he wished to have data, either to correct or support his opinion,
it is to me an object of regret that all the necessary data are
beyond my power to condescend upon, with any degree of
precision. We know what is stamped; and may we not com-
pute that the home consumption, which is not stamped, and
the yarn sold out of the county and applied to various pur-
poses that never comes into any of these accounts, is at least

* In the parish of Alyth the whole land-rent does not amount to 4000/., but
the value of linen stamped there is 10,000/, at least.

77

to the amount of Mr. Arbuthnot’s sum for stamped
—in all amounting to 258,6197. 6s. 8d., a sum far beyond
nion of most people?

t is singular that, in a court of law, a crop of lint will be
nd to be a green crop; and that if a proprietor were to
an action against a tenant for sowing flax in place of a
rating crop, in his rotation, the proprietor would be cast.
nly remedy in this case is to set aside the question, and
rent any dispute on that point by the terms and articles
the lease, specifying particularly what quantity of linseed

ually to be sown.

[ From a Correspondent. |

lax in any part of the West Riding, except Marshland, I
not say positively what is the best soil for it. In Marsh-
wid are allowed to grow as many stone per acre as any

“sown upon grass land new ploughed up, eiderally suc-

1s a crop of oats; but latterly they have sown it after a
op of potatoes, upon land that has a few years before been
_ broken up from grass, and with good success. Land that is

oug hed ee Christmas; if wheat or oat stubble, betwixt
and Candlemas; and as soon as it has got well dried,
ome work it with harrows and the roller till you have
well oo i let it remain in that state for ten days

- is not too far paaeeel: rather than sow when jee land
90 dry. ‘The rent, if let to a flax-grower, is generally from

; if for seed, the Baltic, which makes very good seed next
r for white flax, and for three or four years after, but must
he n be renewed. The quantity sown per acre, if for seed, is
sht pecks ; if for white flax, from eight to ten pecks.

4 4
Fy el

78

The produce of flax per acre is very uncertain, it being a crop
that depends so much on a good’ or bad season; in general
from 30 to 50 stones per acre. I have had 70 stones grown;
and; from a bad season, I have seen the crop not worth reaping.
The quantity of seed produced per acre is from 8 to 16 bushels.
Ihave known 16 bushels of seed, and upwards of 40 stones of
flax from the same acre; but look upon 12 bushels of seed, and
80 stones per acre, to be about the average, if the season has
been a favourable one.

I do think a great part of the West Riding adapted to the
growth of flax, and also that the culture of it has of late been
considerably extended. From my own experience, I am con-
vinced that flax is not an impoverishing crop, for it is generally
reaped the latter end of July, which enables the farmer to
make a good fallow of his land; and the crop that succeeds it,
whether wheat or spring corn, seldom, if ever, fails.

Expenses upon an Acre of Flax.

Se gd
Seed : Heep SR
Working land 016 0
Sooding and weeding 0 5 O
Leading, dikeing, &c. . 010 0
Taking out and spreading 012 0
Turning and taking up , 0 5 0
Rent of land, if let to a flax-grower 5 5 0
Dressing 50 stones, at ls. 6d. per stone 3.15 0
Pulling ae se : ‘ i 010 0
Profit ’ : ; : : ; 711 0

£20 10 O
50 stones of flax, at 8s. 6d. per stone, is . £2010 O
1799.

———

Agriculture in the County of Argyle, by John Smyth, D.D.

Few things would contribute more to the advantage of this
county than the raising a great quantity of flax, for which
our soil and climate are well adapted. Our climate is warm
and moist; and we have a great deal of good sandy loam,

79

is the best ground for flax. If the culture of this plant
extended as far as the other operations of the farmer
allow; or if the ground, when tilled, were let to the
ene persons who, as in Holland, would make it their
ness to attend to it, it would prove an immense benefit

indy, and furnish employment to the poor, especially

oad part of them, in every stage of its manufacture.*
on the crop is tolerably good, the produce of a single acre
ay be estimated at 15/. on the field, at 207. when it comes
a the mill, at 602. when spun into yarn, and at more than
001 i. when wrought into cloth and bleached.

The attention of the farmer, and the industry of the poor,
id therefore be directed, as much as possible, to a matter
o great and general importance. When this shall be the
. the minds of some of our landowners, who now depopulate
r estates, will be more enlightened; and they will perceive
the riches or productiveness of their estates must depend
e on the number of the people, than of the sheep, by which
‘are occupied. It is certain that neither pasturing, nor
e alone, can make any country so rich and prosper-
Die moaslnes as when they are conjoined with manufac-
Bakd, with commerce. But these cannot be carried on in
7 place which does not abound with people.

.s the culture of flax is not yet well understood by the
test number of those who raise it in this county, it may be
proper to give a few directions on the subject. Choice must
en be made of suitable ground for it. A deep sandy loam,
good heart, clean and well pulverized, is the best. It an-
's well on rich ley ground, as it will be free from weeds; or
potaloes, or other cleansing crop.

1e seed should be sown when the ground is neither too wet
too dry, and harrowed in, like clover, with a short-teethed
ow, after the ground has been first broken and smoothed
harrow. This will prevent any of the seed from
x too deep, and make it come up equally. It is better to
rather thick than thin; for if too thin it will branch, and

peta

we

the higher parts of Perthshire, adjoining to this county, the ordinary
ners commonly pay all their rent by the sales of linen yarn.

80

the goodness of the crop will depend on its running into long
fine stalks, without branches.

The ground, after sowing, should be well clodded, and then
rolled, to prevent its being hurt by drought. When three or
four inches long the crop must be carefully weeded, and as
little injury as possible done to it by the feet or otherwise.
The crop should not be allowed to ripen so much as is com-
monly done at present.* It should be pulled when the stalk
begins to turn yellow, as soon as it has lost the blossoms, and
before any of the bolls are hardened, and approaching to ripe-
ness. ‘To allow the seed to ripen would hurt both the crop
and the ground. It is owing to the common error in this case,
that flax has got the name of being a scouring crop. It is so
when allowed to ripen its seed; but the reverse when pulled
as soon as it has lost the bloom; as it ought to be when the
seed is not to be saved. If the flax is fallen, it ought to be
pulled the sooner, that it may not rot. The beets should be
no larger than a man can grasp in both hands, and tied very
slack with a few dried rushes.

No circumstance respecting the management of flax requires
more attention than to water it properly. We generally keep
it too long in the pond, or rather in the stream, which is inju-
diciously allowed to run over it. Instead of this, a canal seven
or eight feet wide, and two and one-half feet deep, and of a
length proportioned to the quantity, should be made and filled
with soft water, three weeks before it is needed, in order to
warm it by the sun; supplying, if necessary, any waste occa-
sioned by evaporation.

The beets should be laid in the canal slope-ways, with the
root-end uppermost, as the crop-end is apt to breed vermin
hurtful to the flax. It may be covered with divots, the green
side undermost, and if not heavy enough to keep the lint under
water, some stones may be laid above them, but the flax
should not be pressed to the bottom. If the flax was
pulled in proper time, and the water warm and soft, the rind

* The finer quality of Irish and foreign lint is ascribed to its being pulled
before it is ripe. This, too, will add to the quantity. A writer in the Sta.

tistical Account (XVI. 527), after telling that 71 half stones were got from
three lippies of seed, observes, that i¢ was pulled before it was fully ripened.

81

bably be sufficiently ae in seven or eight days ;
a it is found to be so, it ought immediately to be
—Itis always safer to give it too little, than too
ing; as the defect may be easily remedied by giv-
yer time upon the ground: whereas a mistake on
other eel cannot be repaired. When sufficiently watered,
Pe pant to the gripe, and the harle parts easily with the
or show, which last is then become brittle, and looks
tish. The coarser the flax, the sooner it is watered, Each
phi mud or nastiness.
he flax is spread on poor ley, it will improve it greatly ;
e water in which it has been steeped is also a valuable
», which should be carefully carried or conducted to
nd that needs it, or weeds and straw, &c. thrown in
it and make dung. ‘The flax should be spread thin
equally, and handled tenderly. If it meet with a few
" dry weather after spreading, it will be so much the
as it will make the harie firm to bear the rain,

any time the flax shall be allowed to ripen so far as

r e its bolls (as at present), which it ought not, they
ald be rippled off before it is put in the water, as they make
d excellent food for cattle, mixed with boiled chaff,
id be carefully dried and preserved for that purpose.

5
eRe tS

ute of the Haxpense and Profit of 1-4th Acre under Flax.

“i 2.74. a,
ound prepared, usually the price of the seed . 013 9
and three-fourths seed, at 5s. i aa 013 9

omg — . . . 61 Bi 0

ae Pre vid Be r? . Oy F710

' itl w é .0 4 6

. and, ane * ‘ f oS 0
ing pe scutching, at 2s. per ating ‘ 016 0
215 0

ofa i shading crop, 8 stone of 24 lbs. at 12s 416 0

; Profit . A tas
Or (per acre). 8 4. 0°

a

For Cambric and Fine Lawn.

The ground should be a rich, light, and dry soil, sufficiently
pulverized by repeated ploughings when in a dry state, or
after potatoes; and if near a wood, it will save trouble. The
seed should be sown before the middle of April, about double
the quantity usually sown for flax or lint. The ground should
be rolled, if dry, and weeded when it is three inches long;
after which forked sticks (about 14 inch thick) should be set
at four or five feet distance, poles laid along these forks,
about six or seven inches above the lint, and distant from each
other two, three, or four feet, according to the length of the
brushwood that is to be laid over them. This brushwood
ought to be laid close and even, rising all about eighteen or
twenty inches.

The lint should be pulled as soon as the seed is formed, or
a few days after it is out of the bloom, before the lint turns |
yellow. If any be coarser than the rest, it should be kept
separate. It must be pulled above the brushwood, and every
handful laid upon it four or five hours to dry, if it is fine wea-
ther. Spread it out four or five days, putting it into a barn
at night, and taking care that it get no rain, which would
make it turn black. If it get wet it is better to leave it on
the grass till dry, than to put it in wet. The bundles must
be opened in the barn, or made very loose, to keep them from
heating.

The pit for watering should be made long before it is used,
and will be the better if it has a clean sward on the bottom ;
if not, some straw may be put under it. A small rill of clean
water should run in and off the lint while in it. The pit may
be six or seven feet broad, by three deep. Along the surface
of the water, or a little lower on the two sides, run poles fixed
down by wooden hooks of this figure, 7; and other poles across,
with their ends under these, to keep all the lint down three —
or four inches under the surface of the water. The time of |
watering depends so much on the weather, and on the softness
or hardness of the water, that no certain period can be fixed.

83

1ay be proper to ses here that the introduction of

-handed wheel, hardly known as yet in any part of this
, would contribute perhaps more than anything, to the
increase of our flax crops. This simple machine, now
in other parts of Scotland, would enable the same
x of hands to spin the double of what they do at pre-
so that there would be a call for raising a double quan-
ys one-half of which would fall to be added to our present
ation, and bring a large yearly revenue to the county,
: - ewaatl the poor to earn twice as much by spinning
y do at present. A small premium to the first, second,
| third, who should use these wheels in any parish might

Be eae effect. After that, we may, perhaps, as in other
dy astep further, and think of spinning lint in a still
er | ity by the use of water machinery, which is now
y sag flax as well as wool and cotton.

bs ‘ Agric of the County of Somerset. By Joun

Biuuinestey, Esq.

ce te pr fertile country extending from Wincanton
yu; rh Yeovil to Crewkerne, flax and hemp are cultivated in

_ abundance, the value of which is in proportion to the
1 and spirit with which it is cultivated.

A crop of flax greatly depends both on the management of

1 previous to sowing, and on the goodness of the seed.

To raise it to advantage it should be sown on new broke-up
pur , ploughed once, and the surface hacked. It should be

and the produce for two or three years may, without
be sown again ; April and the beginning of May are
nths for sowing, and the quantity two bushels and a
ul pegre-

a le great damage done to flax in its growth is by weeds;
if those people you employ to weed it be not careful, they
iy do more harm with their feet than their hands can do
At any rate, the weeds must not be suffered to get
G2

84

head of the flax, for if they do, it will become stunted in its
growth, and get to no height.

When the plant is arrived at its growth, and is in full
blossom, which in common seasons will be about the beginning
of July, it is fit to be pulled, if the grower hasa greater regard
to the produce of the stalk than to the seed. However, it is
a common practice to injure the whole crop for the sake of the
seed; and to let it remain till the seed begins to ripen, so as
to have both flax and seed. In this case the land suffers
greatly, for flax seeded is a great impoverisher; but if pulled
whilst in blossom, is an excellent preparative for turnips,
which should always follow a flax crop instead of wheat. The
great reason why the Irish, and, indeed, most foreign flax, is
finer than the English, is because they pull it early, and sow
particular spots purposely for seed; and, perhaps, it would
be politic in government to grant a bounty on all foreign flax-
seed sown in this kingdom, so as to reduce the price of foreign
seed nearly to a level with our own; by this, the growth of

ve
a
$e acai

flax (and with it the linen trade) would be encouraged, which —

has of late suffered considerable diminution by the restrictions

to its cultivation imposed by landowners, under the idea of

great injury done to the land by the culture of this plant.
After the flax is pulled, there are two methods of working
it; the first is called retting of it, that is, steeping it in water
in order to loosen the rind and separate it from the stalk;
and the other is called dew-ripening, which is the spreading it
on grass land, and by rain and dew producing the same effect.
The early flax is mostly watered, which is done by laying the
bundles in a pond or reservoir of soft water, and keeping them
down by stones or any other heavy bodies. In the course of
seven or eight days the rind will be sufficiently loosened, and
they must be taken out of the water, spread abroad, and dried.
In this part of the operation, great skill and attention are
necessary, for if it be left in the water too long, the threads
become rotten and useless to the manufacturer; it is, there-

fore, more advisable te take it out too soon than to leave it too —

long in the pits. Those who raise flax for the seed and stalk
both go through an operation called rippling; this is, separat-
ing the seed from the stalk, by passing ‘the flax through a

85

‘comb before it is watered. These combs are made of
and the teeth are so close that the heads cannot pass
gh, and are consequently pulled off.
a It is observable that the land on which retted flax is spread
| prepare it for housing, is greatly improved thereby ; and if
he on a coarse sour pasture the herbage will be
ly changed, and the best sorts of grasses will make their
ance. Having myself cultivated flax ona large scale,
ing the almost instantaneous effect produced by the
in which the flax was immersed, I was induced some years
apply it tosome pasture land by means of watering carts
milar to those used near London in watering the roads. The
effect was astonishing, and advanced the land in value 10s.
yer acre. This liquid is much superior to animal urine.
1 practice I therefore recommend to the cultivators of flax ;
bl} ey not be a new idea, but I believe it is seldom

Pectin method, namely, ericbtthenthgs may be carried
nediately after the flax is pulled, or it may be dried and
a; ; and in the months of Sahin or March the seed

> and produce of an acre of watered flax may be

ar 3s

Cr.
£. s. d. a SRE
2 0 0| By 40 dozen of flax,
210° 0 at Is. . > i: 0.0
0 gs O| By bounty 4d. val st 010 4
mo a 8.550 (allowing 1s. for ex-
ing and roll- penses).
Oo Fo Cairied forward . 1410 4

86
Dr. Cr.
&. ijai hd: £... Geile

Brought forward 6. 0 Brought forward . 1410 4
To seed and sowing
_ (Riga) : a be
To weeding . ._, 210 <0
To pulling ° 0 6 0

To halling to pits iia

watering. (N.B.

The price of this de-

pends on the dis-

tance) . : 010 O
To taking out of Ben

halling, spreading,

drying, and housing 0 14 0
To breaking, swingling,
and dressing 40 doz.

at ls. 4d. 213 4

To tithe . : perio £0

12.0 4

Profit 210 0O

. 1410 4 1410 4

To this profit may be added the succeeding turnip crop and
the improvement of the land by the manure; without these
it cannot be considered as very lucrative, for it is precarious ;
and if a dry season follow the sowing, it frequently happens
that the flax does not get to any height, and is scarcely worth
pulling. Some people may think the expenses overrated ; but
if they consider that the calculation is made under the idea of
an acre statute measure, and also that it includes beer, tools,
and many other trifling articles of expense, they will be dis-
posed to acknowledge it to be correct; at least, I can say that
it is drawn from my own experience of its truth.

Agriculture of the county of Lincoln. By the SECRETARY
of the Boarp.

Frax.—Much cultivated at Swineshead ; grass land freshis
preferred. Plough for it once, and harrow five times; again

87

they call an ox-harrow, with a bation set on edge
end drawn over to level and pulverize; then sow
vo b an acre, Baltic seed, at 10s. 6d. a bushel. Harrow
700 om times. Pick the broken sods, and lay in furrows.
little weeding. Mr. Sumpter, of the Griffin, of this
in twenty-three acres, has weeded only to the amount
nt men for one day. ‘The beginning of August it is
yay the day, and costs 12s. an acre. Tied in sheaves,
e size of a man’s thigh: next day taken to the dyke to be
atered, and the better the flax the longer it is in the water ;
five days to fifteen; ten on an average. Cart it to grass
h, where it lies till a shower comes, which is necessary ;
nit twice. Gather and tie in bottles, five or six in one.
‘ Cart it to the barn or astack. If éazd, it will not do for seed ;
r: - ovesekaonad of the seeded flax is ls. a stone less. Breaking
x y, 2s.astone. When it is ready for market, price -
uiiedd: ~ Seldom any pullings, called snufflings of flax.
is erop is thongbt to hurt the land. Both it and hemp
amaged by hedges.or trees. It is common to sow turnips
ii tely after it; but Mr. Sumpter, on his own land,
s thrice, and sows wheat, getting fine crops.

Pune peas

Account of an Acre.

} Sng, 8h 5
ne ploughing 05 0
rr etal : ‘ : 0 5 0

* ‘gars finteens 02 6
aia . Lond -@

0 0 6

: 0 5 0

Oi..2:40

5 (if a pies ana Los. 0 5 0

010 0

ing g and spreading Be. a tase 010 0

P P : . oo 0

: 0 6 0

ither: ing ° . 0 6 0
Breaking 40 stone 4 0 0

Q

=

~

&

=

=

&

a

i

ed .
au

4 |
: |
o

88
£.° 8 i
Brought forward 8 3 0
Carting to barn . ‘ : ‘ ‘ 0. S70
Carrying out and expenses 0 6 8
Rent 4 4 0
1219 8
Produce, 40 stone, at 8s... ‘ . 16 0 0
Turnips after. ° ; 2 09
Deduct tillage, &c. : ; 010 O
——- 110 0
17 30.0507)
Expenses... ; ‘ .-, 15a eee
Profit) 6 ev) bo aon

Most profit when seeded, for the crop is from twelve to fif-
teen bushels, at 10s. 6d.; but, in that case, something is to be
deducted from the price of the crop, but not always, as it is
the best flax that stands for seed. Getting the seed adds 20s.
to the expense.

At Haxey, in Axholm, they often sow it ‘upon sward land,
but more commonly on clover ley or wheat stubble. Plough
between Christmas and Candlemas ; three or four harrowings,
and rolling fine; if a fine mould, harrow in the seed on this
one earth; if not, skim it with plough very thin to make it
fine. Sow two strikes an acre ; plough it ; skim it half in, and
half on top, both ways, as opinion leads. Weed it carefully
on their knees. Pull it the beginning of August for white
line; sometimes leave it.for seed, especially if a slender crop.
Bind and dyke it; leave it in for about ten days to a fort-
night; if very warm, eight days; much treading twice a day
in the pit. Grass it on barley stubble, or an eddish, for a
month, and to six weeks; turn it once or twice. Tuffle it;
that is making it in a loose sheaf, open at bottom. When dry,
bind it in bottles, two or three in one. Barn or stack it; after
harvest, and in winter, break at 2s. a stone. Ready for sale to
the heckler, at 8s., 9s., 10s. 6d., a stone; some IIs. last year ;
average 8s. Harrow off the rubbish, and plough twice for
wheat. ;

Cee AS pa
a Jpnceptie

>

89

_ Account of an Aere.

AE Se Da

bs, My ° . . 0 4 0

and rolling F 0 4 0

and sowing ‘ 018 0

Aa: Pha eaten 040

. . ° : 013 0

spint uate ; : ‘ OTE 6

ing and retting, &c ‘ : 010 6
ne * . . @.{S+-0

ng, &c. . . ob eee 0.2 0
king 30 stone, at 2s. *. i : 3 0 0

, hired for it particularly ; §$.0°0
‘ee _ Shp aieipeeaes ie
9 47,0

Mic, 00 bs ‘ P ited 2000
Expenses . : ‘ eck SUL 0
Prone. PRE ees eR BU

a > sward, the rent will be 40s. more; and the crop
from n 40 to 60 stohe; about 50 good.

stwick, in the Isle, their best wheat follows flax;
3 of the latter 50 stone.

wthorpe, on fresh land, flax produces 50 stone; they
it stands, for 61. or 71. an acre.

i Me of the Bath Agricultural Society, by a Dorsetshire
hai 1 781.

I Bee eve to Gusuitte the Gentlemen of the Bath
ith a few remarks on the culture of hemp and flax, as
ticles of great national importance, and therefore well
thie attention. .

ave often observed, that the greater part of those rich
y dlelying to the west of Mendip-hills, are as badly
das any in this county, or perhaps in the kingdom.
s, whose property it is, seem content with the pro-
it affords them without much cultivation or labour; and

90

appear to be utter strangers to its real value, or the profits
that would speedily arise from a spirited and judicious mode
of management, were it but adopted. Almost any method
of cultivation different from the present, would in point of
private advantage be infinitely preferable. But were these
lands appropriated to hemp and flax, they would prove highly
advantageous both to the landholders and the public at
large.

produce hemp and flax in abundance; and as these are ame-
liorating crops, they will not, if cut without seeding, impoverish
the land. And as the best crops of flax are raised from foreign
seed (which is easily procured cheaper than we can raise it)
there is the less occasion for suffering it to seed in this country.

The vast quantities of hemp and flax which have been raised
on lands of the same kind in the Lincolnshire marshes, and the
fens of the Isle of Ely and Huntingdonshire, are a full proof
of the truth of my assertion; and a convincing argument of
the superior wisdom of the farmers in those places. This will
appear in a stronger light, when we consider that the other
commodities raised on such land sell at higher prices than in
this county. |

Many hundreds of acres inthe above-mentioned places, which
for pasturage or grazing were not worth more than twenty or

twenty-five shillings per acre, have been readily let at four

pounds the first year, three pounds the second, and forty shil-
lings the third. The reason of this supposed declining value
of the land, in proportion to the number of years sown with
flax, is, that it is usual with them to seed it for the purpose
of making oil, that being the principal cause of the land being
thereby impoverished.

It will not appear strange, that such rents should be given
for lands which produce from fifty to seventy stone per acre,
which, when dressed, sell on the average from seven to nine
shillings a stone, or twenty-four pounds value per acre. —

But the profitable growth of hemp and flax is not confined
to rich soils. Experience hath evinced, that they will grow
well on poor sandy land, if a little expense be bestowed in
manuring it.

It is well known, that soils naturally rich and fertile will

ee ee ee ne

91

¢ Moor, in Lincolnshire, is a barren sand, and. yet

oper care and culture it produces the finest hemp in
nd, and in large quantities,
the Isle of Axholme, in the same county, equal quantities
duced; for the culture and management of it is the
a Rivdey of the inhabitants ; and, according to Leland,
in the reign of Henry VIII.

marsh land, the soil is a clay or strong warp, thrown up
} river Ouse, and of such a quality, that it cracks with the

of the sun till a hand may be put into the chinks or open-
yet if once it be covered with the hemp or flax before
ats come on, the ground will never crack or open that
mer.
When the land is sandy, they first sow it with barley, and
% the following spring they manure the stubble with horse or
, dung, and plough it under. They then sow their hemp
and harrow it in with a light harrow having short
1. A good crop destroys all the weeds, and makes it a
fallow. As soon as the flax is pulled, they prepare the
d for wheat. Lime, marle, and the mud of ponds, is an
ent compost for hemp lands.
: > quantity of hemp and flax yearly imported into this
_ kingdom was, about the year 1763, estimated at about eleven
sand tons;* and I will venture to assert, that all this
ity might be grown at home, without making a scarcity
onsiderably enhancing the price of any article of our present
, OF occasioning any want of hands for carrying on our
tures. On the contrary, I am induced to believe it
v uld occasion | a considerable increase of people, by inviting
ers from the continent to come and settle amongst us.
as the hemp and flax we import come from countries
e the balance of trade turns in their favour, it would be
a great national advantage.
| Aol Fanake also to be remembered, that the hemp raised in
s kingdom i is not of so dry and spongy a nature as that we
ve from Petersburgh. The only objection that our rope-
: surge against using English hemp is, that it takes less

a: raise this quantity at home would require ‘about 60, 000 acres

92

tar than the foreign to manufacture it into cordage. But as
tar is cheaper than hemp, they use this argument only because
there is less profit arises to them from working it. This is
therefore a substantial argument in its favour. And this
inference may be justly drawn from the objection, viz., that
the cordage made of English hemp, when compared with that
of the same dimensions worked with foreign, must be stronger
in proportion as there is more hemp and less tar in it, provided
there be a sufficient quantity to unite the fibres together ;
hemp being a stronger and more durable substance than tar.

One peculiar advantage attending the cultivation of hemp
and flax is, that a crop of the former prepares the land for the
latter, and therefore a crop of hemp is a clear gain to the
farmer. ‘That these plants impoverish the soil Is A MERE
VULGAR NOTION, DEVOID OF ALL TRUTH. THE BEST HISTORICAL
RELATIONS, AND THE VERBAL ACCOUNTS OF HONEST INGENIOUS
PLANTERS, CONCUR IN DECLARING IT TO BE A VAIN PREJUDICE,
UNSUPPORTED BY ANY AUTHORITY; AND THAT THESE CROPS
REALLY MELIORATE AND IMPROVE THE SOIL.

Therefore as hemp and flax can be raised at home so much
to the improvement of our lands, the employment of our poor,
and the interest of the nation at large, I am very solicitous
that this subject may come seriously under the consideration
of your Annual Meeting, and receive all possible encourage-
ment from your public-spirited and truly laudable Society.

At the Annual Meeting of the Tenants of the Earl of Erne’s Estate
in Ireland, Capt. Skinner, the benevolent and zealous Secretary
of the Irish Flax Improvement Society, addressed the meeting ;
from whose speech I take the following brief and important
extract :-—

Three years since the quantity of Irish flax grown was com-
puted to be about 25,000 tons. The increase of value upon
this amount effected through the exertions of the Society was,
at the least, taking a general average, 10/. per cent., which
would gain a sum of 250,000/. additional in circulation among
our farmers. (Loud cheers.) But, my Lord Erne, it is now
understood by calculations, there will be fully 14,200 tons of

93

La "flax more in the markets this season than there was three years
4 since, which at the low rate of 45J/. a ton value would give the
sum of 643,050/.; and this added to the above additional value
| makes it clearly appear that fully a million of money above
the usual expenditure will be retained in the country and
e ded in the home market this season, contributing thus to
the welfare of the community at large. (Hear.) But to prove,
my Lord, that this calculation is not fallacious, we have positive
Beeroboration of the fact, by taking the official return of imports
of foreign flax for the last four years, which shows a gradual
__ decrease, and in a ratio commensurate with the Society's suc-
cessful exertions to increase the growth and promote its better
__ preparation at home. It was stated before a committee of the
_ House of Commons in 1840, that the amount of the importa-

. tion of foreign flax from all the Continent furnishing into Great
Britain was 80,000 tons; in 1841 it was much under this
amount; in 1842 it was in round numbers but 67,000; and in
1843, 55,000 tons. (Hear, hear.) Here we have facts sub-
| stantiating the former views that we are gradually becoming
‘more independent of the foreign supply; and I can affirm on
the experience of the past and practical knowledge acquired
by an agriculturist abroad and at home, that no reason exists
whatever why the whole quantity of the raw material required
7 ‘to keep our manufactories in full employment may not be
Pi, produced at home both in quantity and quality, and thus the
great drain of wealth, the purchasing of it from foreign coun-
tries (countries, too, with whom we have no reciprocal transac-
tions), may be checked and circulated at home to: the enrich-
ment of our farmers, and weal of Ireland. (Cheers.) Let
- there be, therefore, no cessation of exertion to raise the supply
y required, and be assured that we have both the climate and
the soil to grow it to any perfection, if but due skill and atten-
tion are given to it. But look at these specimens of flax, and
those beautiful fabrics which I brought with me, as samples of
what the Irish farmer can produce, and the Irish weaver can
turn out. (Hear, hear.) No country in the world can surpass
them. This linen of 28vo was woven near Lisburn, and this
‘cambric at Lurgan—the prize pieces were even finer. The
linen that obtained the medal of the Royal Agricultural Society

94

was 30vo, and will be presented to her Majesty. At the recom-
_ mendation of the Flax Committee, the Royal Agricultural
Society gave premiums for yarns at their late meeting, the
object of which was to try if the description of yarn made use
of in the manufacturing of cambrics could not be furnished at
home. (Hear, hear.) It is of a quality the mill-spinning can-
not produce, and some 30,0007. worth has now to be imported
annually for the cambric factories at Lurgan, Warringstown,
and elsewhere, that are so successfully competing with and
excluding the French and other Foreign countries from the
English market. (Loud cheers.) The result was most grati-
fying. Some forty specimens of spinning on the old system
were sent in, and the lowest number of them was 23 hanks to
the lb., and up so high as 41 hanks. Now from 16 to 30 hanks
to the lb. is what is required, and if the count could be
depended upon, and quality be equal, 40 hanks at any time
would find a good market, and the poor industrious woman
make the value for her husband’s fine flax of a lb. not worth
6d. amount to 20s. or 80s. (Cheers.) New resources are thus
opening out for our people, and those of this fine country
becoming daily further developed. In conclusion, I would
just direct attention to these flax machines, which Lord Erne
has kindly taken as models for you. (Hear, hear, and cheers.)
The beetling one will save you much labour, and no miil can
do its work so well—the rippling combs, I hope also to hear,
will be in great use next season, even if you can afford to throw
away the bolls of your flax, then take them off, as no flax can
be properly handled with them on. It should be done at the
time of pulling, or if the flax is dried and stacked, then they
must be thrashed out carefully like corn, but without untying
the beets.

Statement of Mr. Henperson, Lisdillen, County Derry, on his
mode of Managing Flax.

The Earl of Erne introduced to the meeting Mr. Hender-
son, of Lisdillen, county of Derry, who won the gold medal, the
Royal Agricultural Society’s highest premium, at the recent
Belfast meeting—his flax beating all Ireland. (A sample of

95

ize > flax was nladimesy and for colour and texture was
very beautiful.)

first valuable information on flax, obtained here, was
Dutchman, Mr. Boss, brought here by the late Irish
Board. Mr. Boss was correct in all his principles, while
evidently not quite an adept in practice ; for, in all the
which he undertook the management, he totally failed :
t only failed to produce superior flax, but he destroyed all
seated. This ill success arose from applying the Dutch
m, in every particular, in a soil and climate materially
t; whilst the same system, with such modifications as
he > differences suggest, has proved useful to all who have
ended to it. I will state more clearly by taking each part
inde papain head.
and.—I have ever observed the best flax to be grown on
‘ground, sound, dry (but-not gravelly), and deep, on a
bsoil. Loam and holming lands produce a splendid ap-
e, whilst growing, but the yield is rarely equal to the
ance, and still more rarely do such lands give the fine
yw so much valued. On lands, saturated with either
Q ound or surface water, good flax cannot be expected.
° cannot be a doubt, that thorough-draining and subsoil-
ill enable this country to produce largely such flax as can
be procured only in small samples and isolated instances.
ve no doubt that nine in ten of the failures of this crop
from the filtration of water too near the surface, and that
2 numerous other reasons for missed crops usually
d, almost every one is imaginary. |
ation —Without method there cannot be success. Dif-
soils require difference in rotation, and suit different
_ Iwill speak only of that I use. My farm isa strong
anc pee te: deep clay croft, and has proved well suited to flax ;
herefore, I use that crop more frequently (say twice in the
than will be generally found advisable. First, potatoes
nips drilled, well cleaned, manured, and limed; second,
»; third, flax, with which clover and grass-seeds are sown ;
a, hay, the ground being top-tossed with soot; fifth, graz-

96

ing ; sixth, grazing; seventh, oats; eighth, flax; and then the .
rotation re-commences.

“ Preparation — After wheat, one ploughing is sometimes
sufficient, but two are generally safest; one in autumn, and
again before spring. After lea-land oats, two ploughings are
indispensable, and a third is frequently advisable, for the Jand
must be perfectly pulverized, and cleared of all roots, of every sort,
or no crop. I do not plough deeper than the vegetable
mould.

«« Sowing.—I sow early in April, so soon after the first of the
month as the weather permits; I always find the earliest sown
the best crop. Ido not await perfect dryness in the soil; I
prefer its being somewhat moist, that the seed may vegetate
quickly. I sow from 36 to 38 gallons (old Irish measure) to
the Cunningham acre (or-nine imperial pecks to the statute
acre), of good and clean Riga seed ; when I have sown more, I
thought my crop too thick, but thin sowing never gives fine
flax. The ground being perfectly pulverized and cleaned, I
give a turn of the roller, and sow on the rolled ground. Where
clover and grass seeds are sown with flax (after wheat), the
person who sows them follews him who sows the flax-seed, and
both are covered with a double turn of the grass-seed harrow,
which is light but broad, the teeth thickly set and short. I
have ever found rolling the crop after sowing, to be inju-
rious.

“< Weeding.—If weeds come, they must be drawn ; but if the
plough, the hoe, and the hand, have been sufficiently applied
to the green crop (potatoes or turnips), and the roots have
been all gathered previous to sowing the flax, the weeding the
_ growing crop will seldom be necessary; I rarely have to do it;
still, if there are any weeds, they must come away.

“ Ripening.—I have found the test recommended by Mr. Boss
to ascertain the degree of ripeness that gives the best produce,
with the finest fibre, perfect. It is this:—Try the flax every
day, when approaching ripeness, by cutting the ripest capsule,
on an average stock, across (horizontally), and when the seeds
have changed from the white milky substance, which they first

97

. greenish colour, pretty firm, then is the time to pull.
prejudice, in favour of much ripening, is most inju-
n as regards quantity ; and the usual test of the stalk
at the root, and turning yellow, should not be de-
n. Where there is one man that pulls too green, five ©
1 over-ripen.

”g.—I use the Dutch method, say, catching the flax
low the bolls; this allows the shortest of the flax to
- With next handful, the puller draws the short flax,
keeps the short and the long each by itself, to be steeped
rate ponds. It is most essential to keep the flax even
‘root end, and this cannot be done without time and care;
/ can be done, and should always be done. The beets
1 be small, evenly sized, straight, and even, and should
be put up in stooks or windrows, but taken to the pond
they are pulled, or the day after, at longest, especially
t weather; for the discoloration produced by the sun,
en flax, will never be removed till it goes to the bleacher,
Il give him some trouble also. .

ing.—F lax is subject to injury from neglect, in every
but in this especially. The water brought to the pond
. be pure from all mineral substances, clean and clear.
ter of large rivers is generally to be preferred, but
water, which has run some hundred yards, becomes soft,
have deposited any mineral impurities it contained.
ely from the spring, it seldom does well. If the
good and soft, it is injurious to allow it to stagnate in
before steeping. I put in two layers, each somewhat
with the root end of each downwards: one layer is said
sr, and perhaps is so, though I have tried both, and
difference. It should be placed rather loose than
in the pond, and laid carefully, straight and regular.
-an abundant supply of water, 1 do not let it- into the
ll the first layer is*in. I cover with moss sods (from
banks), laid perfectly close; the sheer of each fitted to
. Thus covered, it never sinks to the bottom, nor is
ed by air or light. It is generally watered in 11 to 13
_ A good stream should, if possible, always pass over the
H

98

pond ; it carries off impurities, and does not at all impede due
fermentation—flood and all impure water should be carefully
kept off. The Dutch test of being sufficiently watered is
certain and perfect, at least I never found it otherwise. It is
this:—Try some stalks of average fineness, by breaking the
woody part in two places about three inches apart, at the
middle of the length; catch the wood at the lower end, and if
it will pull out (downward) for those three inches, freely, with-
out breaking or tearing the fibre, it is ready to take out. This
trial should be made every day, after fermentation subsides,
for sometimes the change is rapid. Flax is more frequently
injured. by too little than too much of the water. Great care
and neatness are necessary in taking out. Broken or crumpled
flax will never reach the market. Spread the day it is taken
out, unless it is heavy rain—light rain does little harm ; but, in
any case, spread the next day, for it will heat in the pile, and
that heating is destructive.

“« Spreading.— It should be spread even, straight at its
length, not too thick, and well shaken, so that there shall be
no clots ; indeed, if possible, no two stalks should adhere. I
have ever found it injurious to keep it long on the grass; it is
in the steep the wood is decomposed; on the grass the fibre is
softened, and the wood little, if at all, affected. I rarely let it
lie more than five days, sometimes only three—this year it had
only three days, and I never had better flax. It should never,
if possible, be spread on the ground flax grows on ; it claps
down, and the clay and weeds discolour it ; clean lea, or lately-
cut meadow, is the best.

“« Lifting — Like all other operations, requires care and
neatness, to keep it straight to its length, and even at the
roots. This operation is too frequently hurried, and coarsely
done.

« Drying.—\f the steepmg and grassing have been perfect,
flax should require no fire ; but, to make it ready for breaking
and scutching, exposure to the sun should be sufficient ; but if
the weather be damp, the flax tough, and it must be wrought
off, then it must be fire-dried. Such drying is always more or
less injurious ; the flax is absolutely burned before it is dry.

99

All who can afford it should keep such flax over till the ensu-
ing spring or summer, putting it dry into stack, then it will
work freely without fire-heat.

*« Breahing.—V ertical wooden rollers, lightly grooved, break
flax better than any other method I have yet seen. Very
little of our flax is bruised sufficiently, and the consequent
waste in scutching is serious. In this, also, it should be kept
straight and even at the roots.

_“ Seutching.—On scutching I need say little. The slovenly

wasteful way it is usually performed is but too obvious. and
cries aloud for amendment; even in the very best mills, in this
part of the country, the deficiency is evident, when compared
with the Down and Armagh flax. The remedy is difficult, for
the system must be altogether changed. But changed it must
be, or the present heavy loss be perpetuated. I have good
hope that the Belfast Association will effect a reformation of
this evil.

-“T omitted, in speaking of steeping, to notice the most par-
ticular cause of injury, say the exudation of water from the
sides or bottom of the pond. Stripe and discoloration are
mostly imputed to the quality of the water brought to the pond;
whilst in nine cases of every ten, the water oozing from the
sides and bottom of the pond itself is the cause. Even if such
water was pure, which it seldom is, it is injurious; but, when
impregnated with iron or other minerals, it does immense
harm. If such ponds must continue to be used, the injury may

be partially amended by draining around the sides and ends,
Ye at six or eight feet distance, and eighteen inches deeper than the

bottom of the pond, and filling the drains with stones, No other
thing I know of does such extensive injury as this springing of
water within the pond.”

mete ata kad

a
A Liadetilatee 5 #
\ ee Tt

H2

100

Letter from Marsnatt and Co., Leeds.—Addressed to
J. Warnes, Lg.

Sir, .
As we import a considerable quantity of flax yearly
from Belgium and Holland for our establishment here, we are,
of course, much interested in the success of any plan for
increasing the quantity grown in England. We have lately
paid a good deal of attention to the different modes of culti-
vation, &c., of the plant abroad, with the view of ascertaining
which was the best, and of then endeavouring to get a better
system introduced in those parts of England where flax is now
grown, so as to make the flax crop a more valuable one to the

farmer, and induce him to extend the cultivation of it.

We believe, both the soil and climate are suitable for the
plant ; at one time the flax grown in the East of Yorkshire
was of as good quality as that grown in Belgium; but the
growth since then has fallen very much off, chiefly owing to
the farmers managing the cultivation and preparation of the
flax in a slovenly manner, and partly owing to the landlords
having a prejudice against the crop as an exhausting one, which
would not be the case if your plan was adopted of using the
seed for feeding cattle on the farm where the flax was grown.

The demand for the finer qualities of flax, grown in
Belgium, Holland, and Ireland, has been increasing for the
last three or four years, and at the same time there has not
been a corresponding increase in the quantity of land sown with
flax; hence the prices have risen considerably, and we think
offer a great inducement to the English farmer to introduce
largely the growth of this crop. )

The formation of such a Society as you describe will be
of great assistance to the farmers; and we shall have great

pleasure in forwarding your views, by communicating any -

information that we have acquired, with regard to the
management of flax, &c.
. We remain, your obedient servants,
Marsnatr & Co,
Leeds, November 28th, 1842.

Rie,
a
Pons, sel Bad Bh re. x =r <3 gig ase
fae ae ee nn > ala ae ee

i ay a

. th

Pe ae er ee Le

Ce
y;ene

SOP e eae

RS er ee te

an ere ns

101

Letter from J. B. Epmonps, Esq., Stonehouse, Plymouth, 1843.
clad .
I have lately read with much pleasure, a report of a
: spirited Meeting which has been held at Norwich, on the
cultivation of flax, and trust I shall not be deemed intrusive
by offering a few remarks on the management of this crop,
_ the result of long experience. having been myself a cultivator
_ of the same, to a lurge extent, for a period of sixty years.
From a slight knowledge I have of the Norfolk soil, I am of
___ Opinion that it is admirably calculated for the growth of flax,
_ if proper attention be given to it; but it is a very precarious
crop, and a sandy soil is the most certain for it, but when a good
crop can be obtained from strong land, it is best in quality.
The first essential point to be observed is, that due care be
taken to procure good seed; and to prevent disappointment in
a this instance, the most certain way is to get a barrel direct
from Riga, through a merchant at London, where it is
annually imported, generally about Christmas; but I have
been in the habit of procuring it from Bridport, in Dorset-
shire, being the chief place in the West of England for the
manufacture of hemp and flax goods, therefore the growers
___are of course particular as to the quality of the seed they sow,
__ it being procured sooner or later from Riga.
____ When a superior sort of seed is obtained, it may be pre-
served a few years, by sowing yearly a quantity (in change of
Soils) thinner than the usual crop, to make it produce more
a seed, but after the third or fourth year, it will be found to
: degenerate. When Riga seed is purchased, it is generally
_ found to be very foul, full of weed seeds, so that it is necessary,
to be cleansed by means of a sieve; nor is it usually productive
the first year it is sown in England, but very good the second
_ season. Many years’ experience has proved to me, that the |
best crops of flax follow the severest winters; the same holds |
_ good, I believe, in Flanders. Flax should never be sowm after
turnips, for should the produce be great, the quality will be —

inferior. The best land for its growth is after grass, to be |

102

ploughed very shallow early in the winter, and after being rolled
with a very heavy roller, to be chopped over with mattocks,
sufficiently deep to cover the seed with harrows, then the clods
to be broken fine with beetles, and rolled with a light roller.
Crops thus served are commonly the best, and. cleanest from

weeds. The next best is after a lying-down crop of wheat;

and the next, after potatoes, the land being folded with sheep

_/ m January and February. Flax will also succeed after barley,

_ oats, and everything but turnips, and the turnip kind. The

same land should not be sown with flax oftener than once in

seven or eight years, nor should land be thus applied that has
been limed within a few years.

If, as the season for flax-growing approaches, it be very dry,
the land should be well kept down by harrowing and rolling,
in order to preserve its moisture, that the plants may come up
all together, which is a great point gained. It is a mistaken
opinion that hemp and fiax impoverish land—from long
experience I have found the contrary; these are crops that
make a greater return, as to manure, than any corn crop; and
when flax is spread on grass to be ripened, the quantity of
grass is doubled in a short time,——the effect, I imagine, of the
oil contained in the flax. When it can be obtained, good old
_, earth is an excellent manure for flax, to be laid on in frosty

weather, but not when the weather is wet. _ It may be well to
remark, that no crop is so desirable with which to grow grass
seeds as flax, as, in drawing the flax, the roots of the grass are
_ loosened, and thereby encouraged to a great degree, the same

being often injured. by a corn crop. ‘There is also great

advantage to be gained to the farmer by sowing turnips after
a flax crop, which should be done immediately after the land
is cleared and ploughed; thus turnips will be produced almost
equally good, if not so large, as if flax had not been grown,
and will be found useful in the spring, after other turnips are

consumed.
J. B. Epmonpbs.

Stonehouse, Jan. 28th, 1843.

P.S.—As an instance of the risk of sowing flax after
turnips, I will mention, that a friend of mine, some years since,

103

had a fancy to sow a field alternately with turnips and white
peas, from each of which he had a good crop; in the following
year he appropriated the same field to flax, but at the harvest
his field was in stripes, the land on which the peas grew -
having produced good flax, whilst the flax which followed the
turnips proved good for nothing.

Leiter from Marsuatt and Co., Leeds. — Addressed to

Ey Warnes, Esq.
Sir,

We are in possession of your letter of November 30th,
and have much pleasure in learning that we can assist -in
promoting your object of introducing the cultivation of flax
into Norfolk, which we are convinced will be a great —— to
your neighbourhood.

We have received the samples of flax-straw, and your
pamphlet, in which we observe you chiefly draw the attention
of the farmers to the value of the flax crop as to its produce in
linseed.

«This is no doubt a very valuable part of the produce of
this crop, and, in an agricultural county, where so much lin-
seed is used, and where at present there isa scarcity of good
linseed, this argument would be very likely to induce the farm-
ers to take up flax-growing; but when it was once established,
we think it will be found that the cultivation of the plant for
the fibre is of far more importance, and that by sowing seed
suitable to produce fine flax, and sowing it thick (say 3 to 34
bushels per acre) the farmer, though he sacrifices something in
the value of seed produced, will get a more remunerating crop
from his land than he now obtains. From calculations which
we have obtained of the cost of growing flax in part of Bel-
gium, we find it to have been lately 11/. to 16/. per acre, and
the value of produce 19/. to 28/.: at the same time we must
remark, that the price of flax has been very high, and that
the cost of growing the flax in England would most likely be
different.

“The best system of retting abroad is practised at Courtrai,

104

in Belgium. There the flax, after pulling, is set up to dry on
the field in long stooks; when thoroughly dried, it 4s either
stacked or put away in a barn during the winter. In spring,
the seed is taken off, and the flax retted in the river Lys. In
retting, the flax is tied up in bundles of about 12 lbs. each;
then packed up in a erate or large wooden frame, which, when
full, is launched into the river, and sunk with stones below the
surface, but not touching the bottom ; the retting takes from
five to seven days. The flax is then taken out, dried, and if of
good quality, laid by till the following spring, when it is spread
on the grass to bleach. This flax does not come to market
till the second year after it was grown —but this is only the
case with the finest flax. In general, the bleaching imme-
diately follows the retting; but keeping the flax-straw either
before or after retting decidedly improves the quality.

The effect of retting in running water is to produce flax of
a light yellow colour. This always fetches a higher price in
the market; but the same effect is produced in large ponds or
lakes of fresh water. If there are such in your neighbour-
hood, we should recommend your adopting this mode of
retting.

The other mode of retting more usually followed is in ditches
of stagnant water, and the result is flax of a dark grey colour.
The bundles are laid in one row, overlapping the next, and
then weighted with sods, stones, &c.

The chief difficulty in retting the flax is to decide the exact
time when it should be taken out of the waters: this is a very
nice point—as by leaving it in the water a few hours too long,
it may be over-retted; therefore we should recommend you in
the first instance to follow the example of the Irish Society,
either to send one or more young men to study the retting pro-
cess abroad, or to engage a Belgian to superintend this stage

of the preparation of the flax.
Marsuaty & Co.
Leeds, Yorkshire, 1842.

a en

58
we ee Ate yD

"PROFITS OF GROWING FLAX.

vir i dieteinent was read at an Agricultural Market Din-
se Mabiee Hill, Armagh, on the 14th December, 1843.

uce of three Statute Acres of Flax.—100 stones at 15s.—
each stone calculated to produce 54 Ibs. of dressed flax
550 Ibs.—spun to 30 hanks to the Ib., will produce
hanks. About 158 females will be employed 12 months
nning, at the rate of two hanks per week (six working
4 Wages for spinning each hank, about Is. 8d., or nearly
er diem for each spinner. This quantity of yarn would
10 webs of cambric pocket-handkerchiefs, each web con-
ve . About 18 weavers would be 12 months

' this quantity, allowing each man a month for each
74 weavers exactly); wages per web 2/.; or from 9s. 6d.
. per man per week. About 40 lenaies would be em-
112 months in needlework (hemstitch or veining) ; each
do one handkerchief on each working day ; wages, 8s. per
or or 8d. per day. The goods, when finished, would be

orth 21. 10s. per doz. _

; 158 spinners 12 months, or 52 sete at about 3s. 4d.

| per week : : £1,369 6 8
reavers 12 siicinths; at 241. per annum ; 420 0 0
vomen, 52 weeks, at 4s. each per week 426 0 0
fds citys, /
pe! ons employed

_ Amount of wages Tier : < ee a 8
_ Cost of flax PR eae 15 0 0
apie a Ee £2,270 6 8

2 of 1050 dozen handkerchiefs, at 2/. 10s. per
Wh aia ie UK bain. veshiess eee. 0
: Peake) 26d Shia £354 13 4

ing of Flax Seed. From Irish Farmer and Gardener's

. Wolstenholme sowed, early in April last year, fifteen
| acres with Dutch seed of excellent quality, purchased

106

from Messrs. Toole and Co., four bushels to the Irish acre,
These fifteen acres produced 345 bushels of excellent sci

which were sold to average—

‘is. 6d. per bushel, making : , £129 7 6
He has in flax produce, already pc 850 st. of 14 lbs.
To scutch, at least . : . 200 do.
1050 stone:
Or 6 tons, 11 cwt., 1 qr., for which he has been offered
60/. per ton, amounting to . F . ; 393 15 0
Being for the fifteen Irish acres . ‘ ‘ £523 2 6
Or, per acre . . ; ‘ : : £3411 6 ?
The average value of Irish flax may be at present esti-
mated at from 45/. to 50/. per ton—so that, instead of the flax 7
having been injured by the saving of the seed,the crop has,by =
good management, produced an article exceeding invaluefrom =
20 to 333 per cent. the average of the country. F
Mr. Wolstenholme has this year sown forty Irish acres with 3
flax, viz.— {
35 acres with seed of his own saving. ;
2 with Riga. é |
3. with Dutch.
The seed of his own saving was sown three or four days
after the foreign, but came up before it, a much stronger plant 4

and thicker in the ground, although the same quantity of

each was grown—and to this moment promises tobe a superior

crop. q

Computing that 100,C00 Irish acres are sown, and that the
crop of seed be but 20 bushels per acre, and the price only 6s.
for crushing, still the value of the seed crop would be 600,000/. ;
and if the crop of flax on 100,000 acres yielded only 7 ewt. per
acre, or 35,000 tons,

This quantity at 45J. would be. ee. . -£1,5'75,000 ;
at 50. 5 OST eRe ea 1,750,000

And, therefore, the increased value, if at 60/., by superior
management, would be a further gain of from 350,0002. to

107

4 525,0007., thus making on the crop an annual increase of in-
come of one million or upwards, from the flax crop in its present

% limited extent! But there can be little doubt that the increased
stimulus which would be thus given, by the advantageous re-

5 sults of improved management in the cultivation of flax, would
greatly extend its growth over the south and west of Ireland,
where the soil is in many places admirably adapted for it ; and
as it has been clearly ascertained that flax is not at all an impove-
rishing crop, and, moreover, is peculiarly suited for laying down
ground with clover, it does not appear unreasonable to sup-
pose that the extent of land under it in this country may be
more than doubled, and the national advantages derived there-
from proportionably increased.

It appears, in fact, but necessary, that other landed pro-
prietors should follow the example of the estimable and intel-
ligent gentleman who has been referred to, and who assured
the writer that he would have much pleasure in giving every
information on the subject to those at a distance who might de-
sire it; he has already kindly afforded persons in his neigh-
bourhood the means of profiting by his example. Ireland,
from the climate, soil, the abundance of water she enjoys, and
the extent of her population, is probably better adapted than
any other country for the cultivation of flax and the successful
prosecution of the linen trade. If her sons do but their. duty,
she cannot but take the lead of all other nations in this im-
portant manufacture.

Dublin, 24th May, 1836.

L. C.

From the Library of Entertaining Knowledge.

_ There is scarcely any plant which is found to be so little
affected by difference of soil and climate as the flax plant ; and
accordingly one species, with all its characteristics unaltered,

_ flourishes in the cold as well as the temperate regions of

Europe, in North and South America, in Africa, and in Asia.
By the Hindoos it is cultivated for its seed alone, from which

108

oil is expressed, and the stalks are thrown aside as useless,*
but in every other country where it is raised, its fibres are
woven into cloth.

The common flax (linum usitatissimum) is an annual plant,
which shoots forth in slender upright fibrous stalks about the
thickness of a crow-quill.—These stalks are hollow pipes,
surrounded by a fibrous bark or rind, the filaments of which,
divested of all extraneous matter and carefully prepared, are
the material of cambric, linen, and other similar manufactures.
The leaves, placed alternately on the stem, are long, narrow,
and of a greyish colour. When the plant has attained the
height of about two and a half or three feet, the stem then
divides itself into slender foot-stalks, which are terminated by
small blue indented flowers; these produce large globular seed
vessels, divided within into ten cells, each containing a bright
slippery elongated seed. .

Although flax is easy of growth, its quality depends very
much on fitness of soil and situation. Low grounds, and those
which have received deposits left by the occasional overflowing
of rivers, or where water is found not very far from the
surface, are deemed the most favourable situations for its
culture. It is attributed to this last circumstance that Zea-—
land produces the finest flax grown in Holland. Preparatory
to the cultivation of this plant, it is not necessary that the
ground should be very deeply furrowed by the plough, but it
should be reduced to a fine friable mould by the repeated use
of the harrow. Two or three bushels of seed are required for
each acre of ground, if scattered broadcast. Care is taken to
distribute the seed evenly, and the earth is then raked or®
lightly harrowed over. When flax is raised to be manufactured
into cambric and fine lawns, double the quantity of seed is
sown in the same space of ground—the plants growing nearer
to each other having a greater tendency to shoot up in long
slender stalks; and, as the same number of fibres are usually
found in each plant, these will be of course finer in proportion.

When the crop grows short and branchy, it is esteemed more
valuable for seed than for its fibrous bark, and then it is

* Dr. Roxburgh.

108

hered until the seeds are at full maturity. But if the
gr cena and long, then all care of the seed becomes
y consideration, and the flax is pulled at the most
e period for obtaining good fibres. Experience has
orien when the bloom has just fallen, when the stalks
to turn yellow, and before the leaves fall, the fibres are
r and stronger than if left standing until the seed is quite

as been found, from experience, that most seeds, though
1ite mature when gathered, ripen sufficiently after being
2d, provided they be not detached until dry from the
og all the sap which this contains contributing
is further nourishing and perfecting the seed.
by Dutch avail tacmeclivds of this fact with regard to their
flax crop.—After pulling the plants they stack them. The
seed by this means becomes ripe, while the fibres are collected

the most favourable period of their growth. They thus

in both of their valuable products from their plants, and

; y their less careful neighbours with the seeds.
‘ater-retting for very fine flax is more carefully per-
and i in this process the advantages of running and still
ute Rilaniedieiroaréd to be combined. The pit into which
y ater is introduced for this purpose is made three or four
mths before it is wanted. A pure stream from a soft spring
; abla tivalet i is always gently running through; the pit
aly two small apertures at opposite sides for the ingress
egress of the water. This receptacle should be about five
deep, narrow, and of a length proportionate to the
itity of flax under process. Poles with hooks attached to
a are driven in along the sides, the hooks being rather
w the surface of the water; a long pole, the whole length
of the pit, is fixed into these hooks. The flax is then made

into narrow bundles of about two and a half feet long and

feet high, and these being wrapped in straw, are immersed

water, where they are kept securely by means of
ntal cross poles, which are then introduced between the
ole and the hooks.
produce from the flax plant is extremely uncertain in
tity. It is affected by diiference of soil and season, as

110

well as by the degree of carefulness bestowed on its cultivation
and preparation ; these different circumstances causing a
variation of from 280 to 980 lbs. per acre, but the average
crop in the same area may be estimated at 560 to 7CO lbs. of
clean fibres available for spinning and weaving. |

The finest thread which has been produced in England by
machine-spinning, measures 12,000 yards spun from one pound
of flax; though by hand-spinning the process has been carried
as high as 36,000 yards to the pound.

—_—

From Rees’ Cyclopedia.

It has been remarked, in the papers of the Dublin Agricul-
tural Society, than moist stiff soils yield much greater quan-
tities of flax, and far better seed, than can be obtained from
light lands; and that the seed secured from the former may,
with proper care, be rendered full as good as any that is
imported from Riga or Zealand. M. du Hamel, however,
thinks that strong land can hardly yield such fine flax as that
which grows on lighter grounds. With due pulverization and
preparation, there can be no doubt that strong lands will afford
excellent crops of good flax. It is seldom that either light
sandy or gravelly soils answer well for crops of this kind. Land
for flax should neither be in too great a state of fertility, or be
too much exhausted, as in the former case the flax is liable to
become too luxuriant, and the produce in consequence of a

coarser quality ; while under the latter circumstances the quan-.

tity of produce is very small.

Methods of Sowing.— Where the principal object of the grower
is flax, the most general method of putting in the crops is that
of sowing them broad-cast. over the surface of the land. In
performing the business, much care is necessary that the seed
be dispersed as evenly as possible over the ground, to prevent
the plants rising in an unequal or tufty manner. It should be
afterwards covered in by regular harrowing, once or twice in
a place, with a light common harrow, not covering it in too

deep.

; ‘ ‘ OE eR ee ae eae esa ;
Sees See re - RP CENTOS Ma Sp aba —

te

Pe ae eT ee

Sl

eee Bee eee See

SCP rag ily acct

Spe Pei? Se te

Aes sald

™~

*

ea eee an a * 7
AAS Ses 2a ee ee ee

Oe eae ee ee eae

os

ee ae Tn

111

_ But where the seed constitutes the chief intention of the cul-

tivator, it iscontended by some that the drill mode is preferable,

as requiring much less seed in sowing, and affording a much
better and more abundant produce. Besides, the smoothness
and weight of the seed render it extremely proper for being
drilled ; and the crops can be kept clean with greater facility.

In this method, the distances of the rows or drills should
vary according tothe circumstances of the soil, and the manner
in which the crops are to be kept clean. Where the hand-hoe
is to be chiefly depended upon, narrow distances may be pro-
per, as 10 or 12 inches; but where this work is to be
principally executed by the horse-hoe or cultivator, larger in-
tervals may be more suitable, as those of eighteen or twenty
inches. Slight harrowing and rolling are sometimes afterwards
necessary, especially the latter in dry seasons.

It has been observed, that thick-sown flax runs up in height,
and produces fine soft flax; but that when sown thin it does
not rise to such a height, but spreads out more, sending off a
greater number of side branches, which produce a great abun-
dance of seed, which is much better filled, more plump and
heavy than that which is produced from thick sown fiax-crops.
The crops cultivated in this way are not so liable to be beaten
down in bad weather, the stems being stronger and better
fortified by the more free admission of sun and air amongst
them ; and they are not so much exposed to danger in weeding
or cleaning the rows.

Mr. Donaldson observes, that a crop of flax frequently
grows short, and runs out a great number of seed-bearing
branches. When that is the case, the seed, not the flax, ought
to be the farmer’s chief object 5 and the crop should be allowed
to stand till the seeds are in a great measure perfected. But
that when the crop thrives, and is likely to become more valu-
able for the flax than the seeds, it should be pulled soon after
the bloom drops off, and before the pods turn hard and sharp
in the points. Whenever the seed is the main object, the
erops should be perfectly ripened, which is clearly shown by
the points of the seed-pods turning hard and sharp, and the
capsules beginning to crack. It usually takes place towards
the end of July, or beginning of the following month.

112

It may be further observed, that although it is of much im-
portance, yet it very seldom happens that much attention is —
bestowed to separate the different sorts of flax from each other, —
in pulling the crops. In most fields there are varieties of —

soils ; of course, some parts of a field will produce fine flax,
others coarse; some long and some short; in a word, crops of
different lengths and qualities. It cannot be supposed that
all these sorts of flax will undergo an equal degree of watering,
grassing, breaking, and heckling, without sustaining great
injury. ‘Therefore, when flax of various qualities is promis-
cuously mixed together in pulling, it is impossible to prevent
some part of it from being lost in the after-management ; a
loss which might be avoided with a small share of attention
and some additional trouble when the crop is pulled.

It is certain, in very many cases, that the inattention of flax-
farmers to the above very necessary precaution is the cause
why crops of flax often turn out of so little value, and is the
principal reason why the proportion of tow or inferior flax so
often exceeds, in ordinary seasons, that of superior quality.

With regard to dew retting, although it is in general the
practice, where flax is cultivated in this country, to immerse

it in water for some time after it is pulled, yet in Dorsetshire

and the neighbourhood it is seldom done. ‘There the flax is
allowed to arrive at that state in which the harl parts most
easily from the boon or reed, by a more gradual process, that
of ripening or producing the necessary putrefaction by the
action and influence of the dew, which is nothing more than
exposing the flax to the influence of the weather, thinly spread
out upon a grass field for a longer period than is necessary,
when the operation of watering has been previously performed.
When the flax has been so long exposed as to be judged sufficient
for effecting the separation of the harl, nothing more is re-
quisite than putting it up in parcels or bundles, in order to its
being broken and scutched.

With respect to the produce, there is scarcely any crop that
is more variable than that of flax in the quantity and quality.
From twenty to seventy stones of fourteen pounds each have
been produced from an acre of land; but from forty to fifty
stones may be considered a medium crop.

—

re
Be
H
a
Pr
n

113

_ Through the employment of Belgians upon my own premises,
I find that but little can be added to the stock of information
already afforded. The system is the same, whether in England
or in Belgium; improvement being the only distinguishing

feature in favour of the foreigner.

Every process, as I have elsewhere observed, connected with
the cultivation, growth, and preparation of flax, is extremely
simple, requiring the activity of a practical hand more than
the efforts of an ingenious head. As an instance, Sir Charles
Burrell, Bart., the earliest and most consistent supporter of
my plans, sent a young man to Trimingham, who, in less than
three months, returned to Sussex competent to the management
of his master’s crops.

The only real difficulty has arisen from the want of suitable
steeping accommodation ; and, consequently, much flax has
been injured both in colour and quantity—a difficulty which
the Belgians obviate by sending their flax to places adapted to
this particular branch of the business; distance to them being
immaterial compared to the advantages derived.

The water of the river Lys, to the extent of many miles along
its banks, is the most celebrated depository for flax. Steep-
ing is, to hundreds of men, a regular trade. Two, or more,
unite in the possession of a number of crates, adapted toa
given expanse of water, for which they pay no rent, and are
protected by government from the interference of shipping.
The crates are about twelve feet long, eight wide, and three
deep. They are simply constructed, and made of common poles.
One of my men, Savine Fieuss, was a joint owner of thirty-
five. He says that farmers send their flax as far as forty miles
by land to be steeped; some, by water, from Holland, even
much longer distances. The sheaves, tied with double, and
oftener with triple, bands, are placed erect in the crates. The
root-ends of one half of a sheaf are tied to the boll-ends of the
other, in order to make the bundle even and convenient for
stowage in the crate, which, when filled, is floated into deep
water, and sunk with stones to about six inches below the
surface. After a short time some of the stones are removed to
prevent the crate from touching the bottom of the river.

When ready to be removed, the bundles are placed upon

I

114

a
ig
a
;
*

the bank, a few hours, to drain. Afterwards they are untied,
and formed into what are called caps, not unlike soldiers’
tents. ‘The rapidity with which this operation is performed
is perfectly astonishing ; for in a few minutes a whole field
will assume the appearance of a Lilliputian camp. By this

means the stalks are quickly dried, collected into bundles, and
sent home. Where the process of bleaching or grassing is con-
ducted by the owner at his leisure—that is to say, if not con-
venient to prepare the flax for market immediately,—it is
carefully stacked till the following spring, a delay that con-
siderably enhances its value, particularly with respect to
colour. On these accounts the system of steeping flax one
year and of grassing it the next, is now extensively adopted
in those parts; a system that will, I think, be found best
suited to the general routine of farm-business in this country.

I had some flax steeped in water, approved by the Belgians,
several miles from my own house, according to the above plan ;
and found in this, as in every other department, the superiority
of their practice. I shall, therefore, in future, send my best
flax to any distance rather than risk its value at home.

By the rivers and streams that meander through our own
country, many places might be found where competent persons
could be located, who, at a reasonable charge, would steep the
grower’s flax upon the Belgian plan, and thus relieve him from
the weight of that all-important operation; the after-processes

Bhi bs to. <r a
ed r rae PS, aa
gC 8 REN Fee

115

of grassing and scutching being such as the gro
juvenile population could easily ec at home. |

With respect to pulling flax before the seed has arrived at
sufficient maturity for preservation, it was in vain that I pro-
duced authorities to prove the necessity of sacrificing that
important part of the crop in order to secure the finest fibre.

_ The foreigners insisted upon the absurdity of the recommenda-

tion, observing, that unless the formation of the seed were
completed in the bolls, the flax would be defective: but, if
allowed to obtain the proper degree of ripeness, both could,
under their treatment, be brought to perfection. I inquired
when my flax would be ready for pulling. They replied, “in
two weeks.” I then directed them to pull some of the ripest
and steep it immediately. About a hundred sheaves were
accordingly placed in the water; the men declaring that good
flax would be found only in the middle, and bad at both ends
of the stalks.

At the expiration of a fortnight some more were pulled, and
except being stooked and thrashed were treated like the former.
But when scutched it was thirty per cent. better, exclusive of
the seed saved, both ends being perfect while those of the other
were precisely in the state foretold by the Belgians. The re-
mainder of the field was dried in stooks, stacked, and the seed
beaten out in the winter.

From the result of this experiment I ascertained that there
were four principal methods & pulling and steeping, as fol-
low :-—

_ 1. The flax is pulled, and in a few hours steeped with the
seed.

2. The bolls are rippled on the field, and the stalks steeped
immediately.

116

3. The flax is dried in stooks, seed thrashed, and stalks
steeped.

4, Stooked, stacked, and the seed -beetled in the winter
months.

él, iis

i 4 ‘ia i i
¥ i | ne ‘fl fy

The fibre in numbers | and 2 will be found equal in value,
and both superior to 3 and 4; but taking the seed into account,
either of the three latter will be more remunerative than the
first, and the last most of all, whether as respects the acreable
value of the crop, the advantages of the seed, or the employ-
ment afforded where labourers are abundant. |

No rational objection can be urged against the growth of
flax, because, under the improved system, every argument is
jn its favour, enforced by reason, humanity, and religion; a
system that renders obsolete the clauses in old leases prohi-
biting the culture of this prolific plant, and the antiquated
notion that fibre and seed cannot be secured at the same time.

In the preceding calculations the rent of land, the seed for
sowing, and the tillage, are rated much beyond the absolute
cost to the farmer who would grow his own seed, employ his
own horses, and avoid many of those charges to which the
linner or factor is subjected.

Besides, under the improved system of management the
most profitable description of flax is that from which the seed

117

as been saved; therefore the crop is now rendered doubly
aluable, and doubly important to the community at large.

“With respect to the various details of harvesting and pre-
ing flax for general purposes, those contained in the letters
end Marshall and Mr. Edmonds deserve particular
ention; but where the finest Tesemaption of flax Rapp aes

clearly recounted, that it will be found a valuable reference
n tines who may not be disposed to sacrifice the seed.

9 bushels, of linseed from an acre of land last year. Mr. At-
inson, of Walcot, had 27 bushels from an acre and 4 rods
ground. The weight of Mr. Pierson’s seed of Framling-
n was 4stone 3 lbs. per bushel, and that of Mr. Tillett, of
Yaxley, 4stone 3}1bs. per bushel. I could adduce many
more instances if necessary, but the above are sufficient to
prove that the quality, weight, and quantity per acre of
Progr seed surpass any accounts extant.

_ These facts, added to the discovery that linseed with grain,
| sonlie: or hay can be formed into a compound infinitely cheaper
and superior to foreign oil-cake for fattening cattle, incon-
testably prove that the cultivation of the plant for the sake of
the seed must abundantly repay, and that a new agricultural
era has commenced, fraught with the most beneficial conse-
quences to landlord, tenant, and labourer.

ipey at

118

Suggestions on Fattening Cattle with Native instead of tO
Produce.

Tue Agriculture of the Netherlands is said greatly to excel
that of England or of any part of the world. Copious details
of those peculiar modes which rendered the husbandry of that
country so eminently superior to ours, are published in ‘ The
Royal Agricultural Society’s Journal, in ‘The Farmers’
Magazine for June, 1840,’ and ‘ Farmers’ Series of the Library
of Useful Knowledge,’ under the head ‘ Outlines of Flemish
Husbandry.’ These works were written during a tour made
by the authors through East and West Flanders; and as
reference is given to particular farms, their accuracy cannot
be doubted. I venture strongly to recommend an attentive
perusal of those excellent accounts, being persuaded that they
will tend materially to advance the objects of the following
pages.

It is far from my intention to draw any invidious com-
parison between the farmers of the Netherlands.and those of
my own country; on the contrary, from all I can discover,
the Flemish farmer is much beneath the British agriculturist
in the possession of capital, station, education, and general
knowledge. Our advantages consist in machinery, in the
breed of our horses, in cattle, and in sheep. “ But,” says the
author of the Outlines of Flemish Husbandry, “in the minute
attention to the qualities of the soil, in the management of
manures of different kinds, in the judicious succession of crops,
and especially in the: cues. of land, we have still to learn
something of the Flemings.”

The climate is described as differing very little from that of
England; but the winters are more severe, and snow covers
the ground longer; consequently tillage and sowing cannot be
performed till a late period of the spring. The greater por-
tion of the soil is far from being naturally productive; much
of it is of a poor sandy description. It is compared to the
sandy soil of Norfolk and Lincolnshire; but by indefatigable
industry is rendered extremely fertile. Of all their crops flax
is the most profitable. It fetches from 20/. to 25/., and even

119

to 30/. per acre in the best cultivated districts, independent of
‘the seed, which is worth 5/. or 6/. more. In other parts the
‘crop is of much less value, being rated at 12/. per acre only.
French and Brabant merchants deal extensively with the
Flemings for flax: they purchase it as soon as the secd is
_ thrashed, and prepare it for exportation at their own expense ;
80 that the profit of an acre of flax to Flemish farmers must
___ be considerable, and may well be termed their “ golden crop.”

The offal was once highly appreciated in this country as
linseed-cake for fattening cattle; but, in consequence of the
‘demand becoming greater than the supply, a spurious deseri ip-
tion of cake was palmed upon the agriculturists, who now,
perceiving the imposition, hold it in less estimation.

_ A society for the improvement of the growth and prepara-
tion of flax has recently been formed at Belfast, in Ireland,
which promises to be of great benefit. The origin of this
‘Society is somewhat remarkable. The Belgian government
having it in contemplation to impose an increased duty upon
the export of flax, sent a deputation, consisting of a member
_ of the Belgian Senate, two members of the Chamber of Repre-
_ sentatives, a banker, and an intelligent merchant, to inspect
the establishments of the leading manufactories of England,
Scotland, and Ireland. They were surprised at the specimens
of flax submitted to their inspection, which they considered
_ __ our inferior mode of culture incapable of producing. Hence
__- they discovered that we only required the Belgian care in
____ preparing the land to render us independent of any other

country for flax of the finest description. ‘The Commissioners

returned, delivered their report, and nothing more was heard
_ of the proposed duty. The Irish, however, formed the above-

mentioned Association, followed the example of their foreign
_ visitors, and despatched a deputation to the Belgians to in-
‘quire into their superior mode of cultivation, to engage
‘experienced workmen to settle in Ireland and instruct them
in their art.

The climate of this country is less humid than that of
Treland. And, if we look at our vast and varied resources,
at the immense importations of flax by our manufac-
turers, of linseed-oil by our merchants, and of oil-cake by our

120

farmers, I cannot doubt that if a society were formed in
England upon the same principles which instigated the forma-
tion of the Society in Ireland, it would tend materially to
advance the best interests of agriculture.

Nothing can more clearly evince the fattening propestial of
linseed than the striking effects produced by the offal, which
is formed into cake when the oil is extracted. Repeated and
extensive experiments have been made to fatten cattle with
the seed itself, also with the oil. But on account of the incon-
venience, trouble, and expense of preparing the food, with
the uncertainty of a profitable return, the use both of seed
and oil is nearly discontinued, and the prevailing opinion
now is that the offal is superior to the pure seed. For “there
is nothing like cake!” exclaim many writers on the subject,
and many farmers. Indeed, the prejudices of some were
carried so far at one time as to pronounce the oil pernicious,
and to recommend an article called double-pressed cake at an
extra cost of two pounds per ton, instead of the cake commonly
used ; but I believe the merit of this discovery does not belong
to Norfolk. A little reflection would have shown how impro-
bable it was that the seed-crusher would be so regardless of his
own interests as to leave oil, worth from 35/. to 407. per ton in
the cake, which he only sold for 107.

That linseed-oil will fatten bullocks experience has placed
beyond a doubt. Amongst the fattest beasts ever sent to the
London market from Norfolk, was a lot of Scotch heifers,
grazed entirely on linseed-oil and hay; but the quantity
given per day, the cost per head, or any thing relative to profit
or loss, | never heard: farmers seldom keep account of such
matters; hence the frequent failure of experiments. A bullock
may be allowed in general to eat as much cake in a day as he
pleases; but a nice regard must always be had to the quan-
tity of linseed placed before him, and especially to the oil.
Neither oil nor linseed should be used in a crude state, but
formed into mucilage by being boiled in water. The seed
must be first reduced to fine meal; one pound and a half of
which, stirred into twelve pounds of water while it is boiling,
with four pounds and a half of barley, beans, or pea-meal,
and given to a bullock of between 40 and 50 stone every day,

121

will, in addition to Swedish turnips, be quite sufficient, or per-
haps rather more than he would be inclined to eat. This small
‘quantity of linseed will act well on the stomach, and the
_ bullocks will thrive and fatten in a degree that can scarcely be
_ eredited, except by the person whotries the experiment. In no
instance has it failed. ‘The quantity of seed may be increased
after the animal has been accustomed to it for some time, but I
believe to no great extent. I have reduced this to a certainty
from repeated tests: therefore, as oil is stored so abundantly in
linseed, I think I may fairly attribute the failure of those who
have so freely condemned the use of both oil and seed toa
want of proper inquiry into, and a prudent and systematic
employment of, their extraordinary fattening properties.
It is but just tostate that the above investigation originated
in the formation of one of those useful and patriotic institutions,
ealled “ Farmers’ Clubs,” at North Walsham, in the autumn
of 1840. The club meets once in each month. The desir-
__ ableness of fattening cattle on home-made food rather than on
foreign produce, was a subject brought forward at one of those
meetings. I therefore had coppers erected, and commenced a
_ series of experiments by incorporating linseed with corn or
@~ -pulse, which ended in the production of the desired substitute
___ for foreign oil-cake.
_ ‘The last of my experimental bullocks for 1841 was dis-
j q posed of at Christmas, at 8s. 6d. per stone. He weighed
60 stone 5 lbs., at 14 lbs. to the stone; cost 72. 17s. 6d.
_ thirteen months previously: so that ha paid 177. 10s.
for little more than one year’s keeping. His common food
was turnips or grass: 14 lbs. a-day of barley or peas com-
_- pound were given him for forty-eight weeks, and an un-
limited quantity the last five weeks; when, considering the
shortness of that time, his progress was perfectly astonishing
—not only to myself, a constant observer, but to many graziers
and butchers who had had occasional opportunities of examin-
ing him. Altogether the weight of compound consumed did
__ not exceed two tons four hundred weight, at the cost of only
3/. 165. per ton.
_ From the above period the same practice has been continued
upon my farm, both in summer and in winter, with never-fail-

122

ing success. Some additions, and, perhaps, improvements, have
been made, as the inquirer will find by referring to the index ;
but the original principle has remained unaltered. Instead,
however, of twelve, my cattle have been regularly sent to
market every six months, obtaining profits such as prove the
superiority of the system over every other. Of this fact indis-
putable evidence is given in my last public letter that appeared
in the ‘Norfolk Chronicle’ on the 20th of February, 1846, a letter
that may be regarded as the compendium of my labours, and
which now occupies an appropriate place in this volume. (See
page 46.)

Directions for making Compound for Sheep.

Let a quantity of linseed be reduced to a fine meal, and bar-
ley to the thickness of a wafer, by a crushing-machine with
smooth cylinders (see Engraving). Put 168 lbs. of water into
an iron copper, and as soon as it boils, not before, stir in 21 lbs.
of linseed meal; continue tostir it for about five minutes, then
let 63 lbs. of the crushed barley be sprinkled by the hand of
one person upon the boiling mucilage, while another rapidly
stirs and crams it in. After the whole has been carefully in-
corporated, which will not occupy more than five or ten mi-
nutes, cover it down and throw the furnace-door open. Should
there be much fire, put it out. The mass will continue to
simmer, from the heat of the cauldron, till the barley has
absorbed the mucilage; when the kernels will have resumed
nearly their original shape, and may justly be compared to
little oil-cakes, which, when cold, will be devoured with avi-

dity.
For Bullocks,

the same process is to be observed; but the barley must
be ground to the finest meal by mill stones, and the quantity
of water reduced to about 150 lbs. There is this difference
also: in the former case the fire need not be extinguished, but
in the latter it must, or at least be damped. The reason is
obvious: for flattened barley requires heat to carry on absorp-
tion; while meal is sufficiently cooked by immersion.

It may be asked, why should not the compound for sheep

el et ee ee so sstatiie per Se ae i i *
* tome — a) +e Pe
Aa Fen, 7 wi Lee See ee ee ew
SEED STs cited yee

123
be equally adapted to bullocks? I answer, that sheep are

close-ruminating animals, and pass nothing undigested ; while

with bullocks it is far otherwise. ‘This the practical obsérver
will soon discover. Nor let the amateur disdain the inquiry ;
because his success as a farmer mainly depends upon the fat-
tening of cattle. He must now think and act for himself, and
no longer be guided by antiquated maxims and customs
founded upon idleness, ignorance, and prejudice.

I repeat, therefore, that it is not necessary for barley, or
even linseed, to be reduced to fine meal for sheep; but for
bullocks it is indispensable that linseed should be crushed, and
barley ground as fine as possible.

On the compound being removed into tubs, it must be
rammed down to exclude the air, and to prevent it from turn-
ing rancid. After a little practice the eye will be a sufficient
guide to the proportions, without the trouble of weigh-

ing. The compound will keep a long time if properly pre-

pared. The consistency ought to be like clay when made into
bricks.

Indeed, many farmers in the neighbourhood of North
Walsham put the compound while hot into shapes, like brick-
moulds. The frame is about 28 inches long, and 10 wide; it

AA

has neither top nor bottom; and when used is placed on a
piece of board rather longer and wider than the frame. The
compound is firmly pressed into the moulds with a gardener’s
trowel, and on the frame being lifted up will be formed into
cakes. Another board is then placed under the frame as
before ; and so on till the copper is empty. When cold, the
cakes may be cut into pieces like bread, and given to the
cattle. It will be seen that many boards are required, and a
convenient place for stowing the cakes. I have tried this plan
myself, but found it troublesome, expensive, and unnecessary.
Observe, the inside of the moulds should be made rather larger

124

at the bottom than at the top, in order to prevent the com-
pound from sticking when the frame is lifted up.

In the spring and summer months, germinated barley might
be made into compound with great advantage. Bullocks will
eat it with avidity, and thrive fast upon it. The process is
simple. Let some barley be steeped about two days, and the
water drained off. After the radical or root has grown to
nearly a quarter of an inch in length, it must be well bruised
with the crushing-machine, and as much as possible forced into
some boiling mucilage, containing the same quantity of linseed,
but a fourth less of water than would have been prepared for
dry barley. It will soon turn sour, but the cattle will not re-
fuse it on that account. Care must be taken lest the sprouts
are suffered to grow beyond the prescribed length, or the qua-
lity will be materially injured; therefore it will be necessary
to destroy their growth by passing the barley through the
crusher. It may be then used at pleasure.

The foregoing remarks equally apply to other grain and

pulse, in forming which into compounds the same rules must
be adhered to; but peas and beans require more water than
either barley or oats. The proper proportions will easily be
ascertained by practice. An admixture of grain and pulse
with linseed will be found to act well together.
' Pigs ina yard fatten upon the excrement of bullocks fed
with oil-cake; but if the cake be reduced to a pulp, and in-
corporated with other materials, according to the receipts for
making compounds, the cattle would derive the intended be-
nefit instead of the pigs. ‘This remark is equally applicable
to corn not properly ground. I am thus minute in order to
convey with clearness my opinion of the necessity for reducing
linseed, grain, and pulse to fine meal.

Either potatoes, carrots, turnips, or mangold wurzel boiled
and incorporated with linseed meal, form a compound upon
which cattle fatten with great rapidity. To make it, nothing
more is required than to fill the copper with washed potatoes,
or carrots, &c., sliced. Supposing the copper would contain
eight or nine pails of water, let only one be added. In a few
minutes the water will boil, and the steam will speedily cook
the roots; then a convenient portion should be put into a stout-

125

trough, with ‘a little linseed meal, and mashed with
the rammer, while a boy turns it over. The re-
mainder must be prepared in the same way.’ As
the mass increases in the tub it should be
pressed firmly down, in order that it may re-
tain the heat as long as possible. The length
and size of the rammer ought to be adapted to
the height and strength of the person employed.
; It will be found convenient to have two or three
dy hana, varying from eighteen inches to two feet long, taper-
, and from four to six inches square at the bottom. A pin
should be passed through the top for the convenience of being.
worked with both hands.
_ Nor let these compounds be despised on account of their
simplicity. They are neat and convenient modes of placing
artificial food before bullocks, which must be superior to
f} made of all sorts of foreign rubbish.* ‘To assert that
| offal is really superior to the sound and wholesome
Sant. of which the compounds are formed, is like assert-
ing that bran is superior to wheat. Sixteen coombs of
linseed are required to make one ton of cake. Now, if the
number of tons imported into this country alone were mul-

* “ The crop of linseed was Considered very good in’ 1842, but I must
confess it was like the corn-crop, bad at the best, for I walked into many acre
and half-acre patches (for that is the usual extent sown together), not more
than from eighteen inches to two feet in length, and I found it by no means
| oo heavily seeded; but during my stay of but a few days at Riga, I was equally
gages to see the number of crafts which arrived laden with that article,
and as quickly cleared off by English, Scotch, and other vessels, many of
had been waiting several weeks for the arrival, and some after all
a obliged to return with only half a cargo.
___ Large orders for linseed had arrived from France in consequence of the
failure of the hay-crop; there was a difficulty of supply. Upon inquiry I
id that linseed was gathered by Polish Jews, about three or four hundred
men and women, who had been many months collecting it through the interior
of the country. As soon as the boats were unladen the crafts would be broken
__up and sold for fire-wood, after which the Jews would start off again upon
another expedition. At Riga, the linseed and other seeds arrive in such a bad
state, from the adulteration of the Jew merchants, that the whole is obliged to
be re-dressed for the English market. This accounts for the mixed state of
4 the foreign cake. The corn is collected in the same way.”—Extract from the
__— published Notes of Mr. Salter taken during a Tour through Russia, &e.

126 —

tiplied by sixteen, I question whether it would not amount
to infinitely more than is grown on the whole continent
of Europe. We, however, receive the supply; but of what
does that supply consist? 'The seeds of hemp, and of many
other plants which are grown solely for the purpose, be-
sides the seeds of many wild plants that infest the fields, are
crushed to obtain the oil. The stones of fruit, nuts of forest-
trees, and ground-nuts,* yield an abundance of oil, which, in
the form of cake, are largely exported from various quarters.
And whither are they sent if not to England, the great mart of
the world? Leta cake be taken from every cargo that reaches
our ports during a given period and examined, and I expect
that scarcely two will be found alike. Now, if they were all
made of linseed, they would of course, in some measure, corre-
spond. But I much doubt whether even the presence of linseed
could be discovered at all insome of them. Samples of cake
have been sent to me for examination, and I have seen some
tested in which the refuse of linseed was not perceptible,
but enough of filthy sediment instead, at the bottom of the
vessels. A few months since I paid a visit to one of the first
corn-markets inthis county, with the view of obtaining inform-
ation respecting the quantity of oil-cake consumed in that
neighbourhood. I was astonished. at the enormous amount,
which was calculated to exceed the absolute rental of the land.
Some of the leading agriculturists assured me that their own
consumption exceeded fifty tons each a-year ; that numbers con-
sumed much more, even from one to two hundred tons. While
conversing upon this subject, I was politely challenged by a
merchant to inspect a sample of oil-cake which he had brought
that day for sale, and to detect, if I could, anything besides
linseed. “For,” said he, “the maker with whom I deal has all
his linseed sifted, so that no other ingredient may be incorpo-
rated with it.’ He placed in my hands, in the presence of a
third person, one of the best prepared cakes that I had ever
seen; but on breaking it, innumerable seeds of the sinapinus

* The ground-nut is becoming also a valuable article of commerce, and this,
with other nuts mentioned, yields a rich supply of oil and oil-cake for the use
of cattle. (Sir Fowell Buxton’s ‘ Slave Trade and Remedy,’ page 322.) Large
quantities are also made in India.

127

g order were easily distinguished ; he frankly acknowledged his
mistake. Nor do I attribute to our merchants in general

e :.. intention of palming upon the public a spurious article.
The foreigners are the impostors ; the English the dupes. But

_ will British agriculturists any longer expend their millions with
foreigners? Already the effects of the tariff and of the corn-
_ law are felt in the reduction of the price of meat and of barley.
_ Now every farmer who fattens his cattle with foreign cake, in-

= directly becomes himself an importer, and contributes directly

% to reduce the price of those articles; for all the meat raised
from the use of cake might have been produced from his own
corn, the supply at market lessened, and a consequent higher

= a price obtained for that sold. Hence we may reasonably account
for the low price of barley, the high price of oil-cake, and the

unprofitable returns for grazing. ‘The reason assigned for the

__ low price of barley was an immense supply beyond the demand.
_ A precisely opposite reason was assigned for the high price of
oil-cake, for the demand exceeded the supply. At one time the
farmer had, I believe, to accept from 10/. to 12/. per last for his

a barley, and to pay from 10/. to 12/. per ton for cake. There-
_ fore the cost of a ton of cake was the price of twenty coombs of

_ barley; and we are entitled to assume that, for every ton of
J a cake consumed, twenty coombs of barley were forced upon the
market, which would have afforded upon the principle I have

laid down six tons and a half of compound. To form some idea
of the gross amount of barley that might have been consumed
insttad of cake, we have merely to suppose that fifty thousand
tons were imported ; now, as twenty coombs of barley were only

. equal to one ton of cake, fifty thousand tons of cake were equal

to twenty times fifty thousand, or one million coombs of barley ;
therefore, as twenty coombs of barley will make six tons and ahalf
of compound, a million would have afforded three hundred and

; J _ twenty-five thousand tons, allof which I calculate would have been

a clear saving, and returned to the pocket in the sale of meat;
because if one-sixth of the barley sent to market last year had
been withheld and made into compound, the probability is
that, consequent on a short supply, the price would have ad-
vanced 3s. per coomb, and the remaining five parts realised
something more than the whole six—that is to say, as sixty

128

coombs of barley, at 12s. per coomb, would amount to 36/.,
fifty coombs at 15s. would obtain 377. 10s. ; consequently ten
coombs in every sixty have been worse than thrown away, for
the money was given to the encouragement of foreign agricul-
ture, and to the employment of foreign labourers, while Eng-
lish labourers, for the want of work, were compelled to seek an
asylum in Union-houses, where they were maintained in idle-
ness. |

Scarcely a guinea of those immense sums paid by the farmers
of this to the farmers of a foreign country for oil-cake meets an
adequate return. ‘Thousands of bullocks are often sold in
Smithfield which do not pay the wages for tending, and some
not even the drover’s expenses. The best returns seldom leave
anything for cake; and so long as foreign produce is substituted
for our own to fatten cattle, the effect will be similar. Besides,
the demand for barley, from many causes, decreases every year ;
and as the ports are open at a less rate of duty, the surplus
must be infinitely greater. Surely, then, it must be incumbent
on the agriculturists of this country to alter their system, and
obtain a supply of artificial food from the resources of their
own soil. In proportion as the cultivation of barley could be
curtailed, the supply must necessarily be diminished, and the
command of price placed more in the grower’s power. The
money value to him of the less supply would, as I have attempted
to show, be equal to that of the larger. To prevent so
great an excess in future, the appropriation of one acre in seven
of all lands that were intended to be sown with barley to The
growth of linseed, peas, and beans, would reduce the supply
to the extent I have mentioned; have precisely the same effect
on the price of barley ; be extremely beneficial to the soil in
the rotation of crops; and afford some millions of tons of
nutritious food, upon which cattle and sheep will thrive beyond
the belief of those who have never tried the experiment, return-
ing at the same time as rich and lasting a description of manure
as can possibly be obtained from any other source.

Connected with our present system of farming is an immense
annual outlay for foreign manures, and in which doubtless as
many impositions are practised as with cake. I believe if the
Belgian mode of making manure were practised in this country,

129

ye should be rendered perfectly independent of foreign aid.
ossmempad farmers say, “ ‘that = manure there is no

fle on green crops, and ‘now all my bullocks are provided
h a separate box.

is too well known to require any observations from. me.
ut with respect to the economy of carrying grass from the
and giving it to bullocks in houses, cut short with an
mgine _ Dyball’s), perhaps a few remarks may not be super-
¥ lous.” The greatest care should be paid to the economical
__ use of straw in winter, so that a proper supply may be at hand
_ for summer-grazing. One half of the straw generally consumed
n farm-yards might by care and attention be reserved for this
yurpose. First, by properly stacking and thatching it ; secondly,
; placing troughs * upon the buildings to conduct the rain-
water from the yards; and, thirdly, by keeping cattle longer in
the fields in winter. There is no question as to the benefit
derived from consuming turnips on the land in winter, but
considerable doubts are entertained respecting feeding off grass
insummer. I have heard it repeatedly asserted that better
‘wheat is grown where grass has been mowed for hay than
___ where it has been fed down. This has been frequently proved
in fields divided by hurdles, one part fed, the other mowed,

but both treated alike for wheat. Admitting that the land

no perceptible benefit by feeding off the grass in
‘summer, how strongly does it argue in favour of feeding
-eattle in boxes, if only for the sake of the manure! But the
advantage is greatly augmented when we consider that one
acre will house-feed three bullocks; whereas it will require
three acres to graze them in the field. Taking the value of
the manure into consideration, the superiority of box-feeding
is incaleulably great.

___* Cast-iron troughs are sold at 6d. per foot, the cost of which would be
_ amply repaid the first year; and they could remain as farm-covenants if put
up by the tenant.

Py) “

-__—————

130

A piece of lucern, in proportion to the size of every farm,
ought to be grown, and a few acres of early potatoes: planted.
These will always afford a supply, should the grass at any time
fail, and they will be found convenient as a change of food.
If not wanted, the potatoes of course will remain as winter
store. Tio this system let the use of compound be added,
and the farmer will be rendered comparatively independent of
turnips, which, at best, is an expensive and precarious crop.

Great disappointment is often experienced in the use of oil-
cake. Bullocks will refuse to eat it, if previously fed with
some of a better quality; and it is but reasonable to suppose
that their progress must be greatly retarded by a change for
the worse. But no such inconveniences adhere to the use of
compound, for the “

Degrees of Fattening

may be regulated in strict accordance with the convenience and
intention of the farmer, by mixing up a small quantity of linseed
at first, and increasing it at pleasure. Upon this principle the
condition of cattle may be advanced or retarded as circumstances
require; and the grazier who has a store of linseed at command
will be protected from loss under any emergency, either from
the want of grass, through the heat and drought of summer,
or turnips, through the frosts of winter. Also, in every case
where milk is required, linseed will be found a powerful aux- —
iliary, whether for calves, for lambs, or for pigs.* Adequately
to portray its value to the fold, the dairy and the stable would
require an additional volume, so diversified are its properties,
and so easy their application ; as the subjoined letter, pub-
lished in December last, will in some degree elucidate.

* Observe, linseed compounds are not adapted to the fattening of pigs. A
correspondent informed me that he tried the experiment, and that the pork
was unsaleable.

131

_ ON THE USE OF LINSEED.

To the Editor of

Tar ‘season has arrived when any suggestions on
1 methods of feeding cattle must be received with

ura! Peecinunity, and promote the cause of philanthropy.
aly by corroborative evidence that we can expect to

use of Tanned to fatten bullocks and sheep is are: to
stood. Many suppose that they are sufficiently ac-
with its properties; but we have yet much to learn
the extent of its value, particularly for rearing store
k in combination with box-feeding and summer-grazing.~
1€ Be direct advantage i is seen in the rapid progress of the cattle ;
indirect, in the superiority of the crops where the manure
obtained has been applied. Formerly, through ignorance
agement, linseed, as cattle-food, failed to remunerate,-
asequently its use had long been discontinued in this
ty. But, during the last four years, the demand has been
er than the supply—an incontestable proof of the efficacy
seed compounds.
kay farm premises have been metamorphosed through the
ersion of sheds into boxes, and the addition of new ones;
y amateur farmers alone, who are too often influenced by
K 2

132

plausible theories, but by men of long experience and sound
judgment. I subjoin, with much satisfaction, an extract from
a letter inserted in the ‘Sussex Herald” by Sir Charles
Burrell, Bart., with a plan of whose boxes, and boiling-house,
&c., attached ; and those of many other landowners and tenant-
farmers, I purpose to embody in my forthcoming work.

“TI cannot lose the opportunity of repeating my entire satis-
faction derived from Mr. Warnes’s box-feeding system as set
forth in his pamphlets, and brought into both summer and
winter practice on my farm, the beasts thriving rapidly on the
compound mode of crushed linseed, with bean, barley, or other
meal, boiled and formed into a mass; with which my beasts
have thriven more advantageously than others on oil-cake, and
at less cost; and, as regards the excellence and flavour of the
meat, it is superior, and specially tender and juicy. And if
further proof were desirable, it is afforded in their ready sale
to the neighbouring butchers, and in the intended increase,
early in the spring, of the number of my cattle-boxes, from the
roofs of which the rain-water will be saved in one or more
spacious tanks arched over, similar to one which wholly sup-
plies my hot and ‘green houses. With respect to particular
statements of comparative cost in feeding on Mr. Warnes’s
system, it seems to me prudent to state no corrected calcula-
_ tions until I have completed two years’ trial. Suffice it now,
~ however, to add that I have sound grounds for preferring the
box-feeding system to every other mode; the food being
cheaper, the cattle thriving faster, and the dung made being
so much better, that we consider 12 loads thereof equal to 20
loads from oil-cake-fed beasts, whether tied up or otherwise.
Moreover, the very recent date of your letter precludes the
making accurate calculations; but I hope that what I have
stated will be plain and satisfactory.

**«CnarLtes Merrick Burret.”

The first range of boxes to which Sir Charles refers, were
originally commodious pig-sties.
W. W. Whitmore, Esq., of Dudmanston, Shropshire,. is.

engaged, at the present time, in transforming a barn into a

133

double, and some adjoining bullock sheds into a single, row of
boxes, with lofts for provender ; all which, communicating with
the cooking-house, originally a dairy, form a complete esta-
blishment, and at a cost comparatively nominal. This gentle-
- man’s plan embraces 40 boxes, ey sie of containing 50 or 60
bullocks.
The Rev. J. C. Blair W atta: of Horkesley Hall, has
about 50 boxes, on various parts of his premises, arranged and
constructed upon principles alike economical. But the most
‘compact establishment that I have yet had the pleasure of
ot inspecting i is that of H. 8S. Partridge, Esq., of Hockham Hall,
3 comprising, “under one roof, accommodation for 14 bullocks ;
a boiling-house, with coppers and a pump; a turnip-house,
and chambers for hay ; and cutting and linseed-crushing ma-
4 dhiines. ;
_ I mention these circumstances to show that all farm premises
_ may, by a little consideration and contrivance, be similarly
converted, and every farmer in the kingdom be stimulated to
adopt a system that will ensure profit to himself, rent to his
landlord, and employment to his labourers ; because it would
enable him to double his usual number of cattle, to make two
returns of fat bullocks in a year, and to apply to his land an
abundance of efficacious manure: a system based upon fun-
damental principles, depending upon its own resources, requir-
‘ing neither foreign food, foreign manures, nor chemical prepa-
rations: a system simple in practice, powerful in effect, and
_ applicable to every grade of farmer: a system more important,
_ if possible, to the breeder than to the grazier, if we may judge
_ from the remarks of the Duke of Buccleuch, at a meeting of
the Dumfries Agricultural Association ; and from the miserable
spectacles that appear in our cattle-markets—spectacles at
variance both with humanity and judicious management. His
_ Grace animadverted upon the deteriorating effect of keeping
cattle upon straw in winter, and advised the adoption of some
method that would, at least, retain the condition acquired in
the summer, and improve the manure. Linseed-meal boiled
for a few minutes, and intimately incorporated with straw,
_-will achieve both objects. For instance, Mr. Partridge has 21
_ score of ewes, to which a peck only is given per day, at the

aa
3
2 sf

134

cost of ls. 9d., or a penny per score, including the expense of
crushing, boiling, &c.

That so small a quantity of linseed should be divided
amongst 420 sheep, must, of course, appear paradoxical; but
the following explanation will remove doubt.

A peck of linseed reduced to fine meal is stirred into twenty
gallons of water; in about ten minutes, the mucilage being
formed, a pail-full is poured, by one person, upon two bushels
of cut hay thrown into a strong trough, while another mixes
it with a fork, and hastens the absorption with a small rammer.
The like quantity of chaff is next added with the mucilage
as before, till the copper is empty. The mass being firmly
pressed down, is, after a short time, carried in sacks to the
fold, where I had the pleasure of witnessing the avidity with
which sheep devour hay, before so ordinary that they refused
to eat. Asthe lambing season advances, and circumstances
require, the proportion of linseed will be increased—a method
that all, who are straitened for provender, will find it their
interest to adopt; remembering that this mixture is alike
serviceable:to lean cattle and to horses, and that the straw of
peas and the stalks of beans are second only to hay. A few
Swede turnips, mangold wurzel, or carrots, sliced very small,
and added to the water when first put into the copper, will
much improve the compound.

In offering, or rather in repeating, the above hints, I disclaim
every consideration but that of assisting my countrymen in
these perplexing and alarming times. Under happier cir-
cumstances, it would be the duty of every occupier of the soil
to ascertain the extent of his own resources. But at the
present crisis, the investigation is rendered imperative in
a ten-fold degree. The farmer must remember, that other
interests are involved besides his own, and that he must no
longer turn a deaf ear to the calls for improvement on
account of imaginary trouble. For although a _ Protec-
tionist myself, I am confident that a free trade in corn, with
its consequent evils, can only be averted by “ increased pro-
tection.”

Joun Warngs, Jun.

Trimingham, Dee. 18th, 1845.

135

5—W.H. Windham, Esq., of Felbrig Hall, has about 40
n his Park Farm, and, with Lord Wodehouse, Sir
Stracey, Bart., and other landlords in Norfolk, has
ced the erection of boxes for their tenants, according to

ves might, upon the compound system of feeding in
2s, be made to weigh 30 or 40 stone each (of 14 lbs.) at a
ear old. Two returns of fat cattle in a year may be effected.
jut success will in a great measure depend upon particularity
feeding and cleanliness. A bullock ought never to be long
out food, and a clean lock of straw to rest upon; for when
ceases to eat he will lie down and ruminate, seldom rising
‘cept to eat again. Let those who wish to try the experi-
ment place their bullocks in boxes on the first of January,
and return them at the end of June, when they will have
consumed the last of the turnips, which are the worst, and the
first of the grass, which is the best ; then replace them with the
others, which will consume the last of the grass, which is the
worst, and the first of the turnips, which are the best, allowing
them a liberal and equal proportion of compound.
It will easily be seen that the advantage of a quick return
_ consists in selling the same weight of bones with a less propor-
tion of meat than if kept a longer period to obtain a greater
nere For, keeping the same price of meat in view, sup-
e an ox is sent, after having been grazed six months, to
ket, and you are offered’ 21/. for him, at 7s. per stone,
which you refuse, and keep him six months longer; you then
sell him at 7s. per stone; the increased weight during the
latter time will chiefly consist of meat, and the return for food
will be much less than for the former six months.
_ To make the case more clear. I expect that an ox purchased
at ten guineas, would at the end of six months weigh 60 stone,
_ of 14 Ibs. to the stone, which, if sold at 7s. per stone, would
_ amount to 211, and repay for his keeping 10 guineas; but if
_ retained six months longer, his weight would not exceed 80
stone, which would only amount to 28/., leaving a balance in
favour of the quick return of 37. 10s.
In the following series of letters 1 have endeavoured in

136

some measure to afford information alike advantageous to all
who have stock to maintain. In their perusal the reader will
perceive that it is not by the profuse, but by the economical,
use of linseed that its real value can be ascertained, and
that time and experience alone are required to develop the
immeasurable advantages to the British nation of the flax
crop.

MESSRS. BOND AND HARWOOD’S

LINSEED~CRUSHER, IPSWICH, SUFFOLK.

. &
\s As the reducing of linseed into fine meal for the cattle compound is indispensable,
eB. I strongly recommend Messrs, Bond and Harwood’s Crusher. It is the most
. is effective, and, at the same time, most easy machine for manual labour that has come
& under my observation.
5

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TT

The above plates, with the exception of the Beetle (see page 116), represent the
implements employed in the preparation of flax by hand.
They are all extremely simple, and may be had of Mr. Dyball at North

Walsham, maker of the Hay-cutting Machine (see drawing in this volume), for

about Fifty Shillings.

LETTERS

ON THE

G OF CATTLE WITH NATIVE PRODUCE,

BOX FEEDING,.

LETTERS.

No. I.

To the Editor of ———.

I am sure you will readily afford me an opportunity

ig, through the medium of your paper, some infor-
a to the public on the above important | subjects, ac-
a. by experience I desire to do so in a series of short
iin onder that objections may be answered before I re-
em in the form of a pamphlet for general circulation.
all I be happy to reply to any public or private communi-
ae liad object is to arrive at, and to promulgate, right

cat the present moment, when so many inquiries are
ade respecting the proper time and method of harvesting
op, claims our first consideration.
he proper time, of course, is when the utmost profit to the
evant be secured. In Belgium, early pulling is said to
e finer flax; but when adopted the seed is chiefly, if not
rely, sacrificed. In Holland, on the contrary, early pulled
iS though finer, is considered to be weaker, and to lose much
of its weight while being scutched and prepared for market.
fpreland, till within a year or two, no regard was paid to
‘ but now, the Irish are anxious to preserve it. In-
ved. the importance of this part of the crop is so generally
erstood, that comparatively very little flax at the present
1 s pulled, in any part of the world, till the seed has arrived

140

In this country, where the seed, as an ingredient of the
cattle compound, has been proved of such incalculable value,
the strictest regard ought to be paid to its preservation; other-
wise, the present attempt to cultivate flax must inevitably
fail, as did that in 1531, when a statute was enacted requiring
that for every 60 acres of land fit for tillage, one rood should
be sown with flax and hemp-seed; and in 1767, when 15,0007.
were proposed to be divided amongst the most successful cul-
tivators of those plants.

At that period the value of the seed as cattle-food was
unknown: it was therefore disregarded, and the only chance
of remuneration centred in the fibre. But to us flax is a double
crop, the most important part of which is the seed. For
admitting that the flax will obtain more money at market, yet,
the seed being consumed by cattle on the land where grown,
diffuses its influence over the whole farm, and returns to the
pocket a ten-fold greater profit in the shape of meat and
corn, &c., &e. .

The indirect advantages of growing flax are infinitely superior
to the direct. It is impossible fully to estimate them; nor can

lie el

\

they be ever rightly appreciated till experience has made them |

sure. In former times the exercise of agricultural skill was
extremely limited; and whether flax or wheat, the exhausting
effects of a good crop were not easily remedied. Then, sufficient
hands were scarcely found to till the soil; now, science has
advanced in an extraordinary degree, aided by industry,
learning, and chemical research, so that deterioration of soil is
no longer to be feared. Besides, we have now an overwhelm-
ing population, to find employment for which all the skill of
scientific men, and all the efforts of a talented and powerful
government, are at a perfect stand: and why ?—Simply because
they “ vainly compass sea and land to obtain an alleviation of
our national distress, while the finger of an all-bountiful Creator
points to our own soil as.the source whence the remedy can
alone be derived.” Yes, to our own soil! And I confidently
invite the candid and philanthropic mind to survey our present
flax crops in Norfolk; to take into consideration the five
millions annually expended to maintain people in idleness,
with the ten millions sent out of the country every year to

14]

this very crop—to the support and encouragement
of foreign agriculture, and to the employment of tens of thou-
sands of foreign labourers; when I am persuaded that he will
perceive a door open, by the cultivation of flax with reference
> seed, for universal employment, and consequently for
vancement of our best interests and the overthrow of
ruinous designs of those itinerant demagogues who infest
land at the present day.
orkmen from Belgium have lately arrived in this neigh-
ood to assist in pulling and preparing our flax—men of
“ience, who state that they never saw finer crops, and that
y are superior this year to those of their own country.
returned last week from a journey of 700 miles, under-
_ taken for the purpose of obtaining information respecting this
important object. I took with me many specimens of the
t and present years’ crops of flax, and submitted them to
inspection of experienced persons, all of whom were sur-
2d at the perfection to which we had arrived in_so short a
and agreed in the opinion, that the cultivation of this
; ought to become a national undertaking. At Leeds I
1ad a long conference with the Messrs. Marshall, proprietors
_ of the extensive flax-spinning mills in that town, who renewed
sir declarations of willingness to co-operate in promoting so _
irable anend. No higher authority can be adduced than
is eminent firm, because, independent of the influence which
ir immense purchases must have had in stimulating the
yth of flax in foreign parts, they subscribed largely and
essly for that purpose, and are now anxious to promote an
led cultivation of the plant at home. I repeat, that
gentlemen take a deep interest in our present proceed-
s, and, therefore, any advice through such a medium
_ relative to the pulling of the present crops, must be received
F with peculiar interest. They recommend us to allow the
seed first nearly to ripen in the bolls, then to pull, dry,
d stack the flax. Afterwards to thresh the seed from
» stalks at our leisure, and prepare the flax for sale
i a scutching-mill. Their opinion is, that we are likely
insure a more profitable return upon this system than
any other. ‘To illustrate their views, I would in-

142

stance my present growing crops, consisting of about twelve
acres, ten of which were sown to obtain the finer description of
flax. I consider the seed, merely for crushing purposes, to be
worth at least 60/7. Now, were the flax to be immediately
pulled, the whole of this sum would be lost; for, admitting
that part of the seed might arrive at a certain degree of
maturity, yet the quantity would be so small, and the quality
so inferior, that it would not repay the cost of rippling.

The best criterion for judging the proper time for pulling
flax, is precisely that which would influence every judicious
farmer in shearing his wheat or mowing his oats, viz. :—when
the major part of the straw turns yellow, and the kernel of the
principal ears brown. With flax, as with those grains, it is
perhaps better to begin a little too early than too late. The
method of pulling flax is merely to collect a small quantity in
the left hand, and to pluck it with the right placed about half
way down the stalks. The hands may thus be quickly filled,
and the flax laid upon the ground, the bolls of one handful
being placed by the root ends of another. Afterwards children
carry each handful to the person who forms it into stooks. In

the course of a few days, according to the weather, they may
be turned, and when dried to the state in which hay would not
heat on the stack, it should be tied up in small sheaves, about
twenty-four inches in circumference, and either put into a barn
or stacked. Or, if found necessary to tie up the flax before
it is sufficiently weathered, the sheaves may be set up in the
field. All weeds ought to be carefully taken out of the flax
as soon as pulled; long and short stalks should be tied in
separate sheaves, which is easily arranged at the time of
pulling. Indeed, every process connected with the cultivation,
growth, and preparation of the crop, is extremely simple,

143

requiring the activity of a practical hand more than the efforts
of an ingenious head.
| I remain, Sir, your obedient servant,

a JoHun WARNES, Jun.
— July 25th, 1843.

i No. II.
Sir,

Havine concluded my first letter with directions for
harvesting flax, I will now proceed to make a few observations
upon its value, because at this particular juncture a general
inquiry is being made on this point, which of all others is the
most important, and respecting which I feel most anxious:
for unless a fair profit can be realised, the grower will of course

. q - cease to cultivate the plant for the fibre, and the incalculable
_ advantages arising from that part of the crop would be lost to

the country. It has been repeatedly shown, that where flax
has been cultivated in this neighbourhood, principally with the
view of obtaining linseed to fatten cattle, the results have been
highly satisfactory, and therefore I entertain no doubt on that
head.

The value of a flax crop is twofold—direct and indirect.
The direct is the profit in money which the grower obtains
over and above all expenses. There are two ways of disposing
of this crop, viz.:—while in its green growing state, to pur-
chasers called factors; and next, after it has been properly
prepared, to the agent for the spinning mills. The latter I
conceive to be the most profitable plan; but the former is the
‘Yeast trouble, and now most practised.on the Continent, where
the factor pays down the money for the crop before it is pulled,
and defrays every after expense.

From the most authentic sources of information, I gather,
that flax in the best cultivated districts sells for 25/. and
upwards per acre, Flemish measufe, which is something less
than ours. The Messrs. Marshall, of Leeds, inform me that
from calculations they have obtained, it appears that the acre-

144

able value of flax in Belgium ranges from 197. to 251., averaging
22/7. 10s. per acre, which I expect does not include the seed.

Mr. Trask, of Brimpton Yeovil, Somersetshire, observes,
that at the present day flax is only worth about 57. 10s. a pack
of 240 lbs. ; that three packs are grown to the acre, or 51 stone
6 lbs.: this gives 167. 10s. per acre exclusive of the seed, which
at only 5/. would make the crop worth 21/. 10s. per acre. Mr.
Trask adds, that “ probably the neighbourhood in which I live, | .
or at least the county of Somerset, grows more flax and manu-
factures more canvass than all England besides.” I therefore
conclude, from their growing flax to make such coarse material as
canvass, that its quality is far from fine, but that under the
improved cultivation, and modern system of preparing for
market, it would be worth several pounds per acre more,

Mr. Wolstenholme, of Ireland, had, according to the account
in my tract on the Advantages of growing Linseed, 15 acres of
flax which produced 1050 stones of fibre, and 345 bushels of
seed, the amount of which was 525/. 2s. 6d.; or for seed
1291. 7s. 6d., and 393/. 15s. for the flax; or 34/. 17s. 6d. per
Irish acre, which being a fifth more than the English, would

-give us 27/. 18s. per acre.

Taking therefore the average of the English, Irish, and
Belgian accounts, the amount per acre will be 241., including
all expenses.

The crops in England and Ireland this year are extremely
fine, of which I have now before me very many specimens sent
by post and otherwise; and I cannot doubt but that the most
remunerative flax will produce from 40 to 50 stone per acre,
and be worth from 8s. to 12s., and perhaps 15s per stone;
now taking the medium weight of 45 stone, at 10s. per stone,
the crop would amount to 22/. 10s. per acre, exclusive of the
seed. /

I invited the three Belgian flax-dressers employed in this
neighbourhood to examine my own crops, which they said were
“ good, very good,” “ fine, very fine.’ They were astonished
at the size of my fields, having never seen any so large, entirely
with flax, in their own cOuntry. We were accompanied by
Mr. Watteyne, the son of an opulent flax-merchant in Belgium.
While looking over my best piece of six acres, I asked him what

145

- factors would be likely to give for the flax, provided it
e growing in Belgium ; he replied 25/. per acre.
The expenses of harvesting the crop and preparing it for
sale through all its stages, must, to us, who have everything to
‘learn, be much greater than if we were all thoroughly ac-
uainted with the business. I, therefore, after taking all cir-
tances into consideration, feel warranted in offering an
nion, that where flax is about three feet long, fine in the
and thick in the ground, the grower ought not to take
} than about 167. per acre for it, the purchaser being at all
expenses connected with pulling, &.
‘The seed on no account ought to be sold; for, in my state-
_ ments respecting the indirect advantages of growing flax,
__I shall be able to show that its value to the farmer is in-
estimable.
My remarks upon the indirect value of the flax crop I shall
defer, and allow the subject of box-feeding cattle next to en-
ye our attention, being of more consequence at the present

ae. I intend next week, if you can afford me space, to offer
to the public a sketch, ground plan, and elevation of my boxes
as an illustration of the letter that will accompany them.

Joun WARNES.
t

"August 2nd, 1843.

Whe oF

No. III.

3 A pesiRrE to seek at adistance for comforts and benefits
that may be had close at hand, is a strong propensity in human
‘nature, more easy to discover than to account for. 7
_ The present state of our country powerfully illustrates the
ibove remark ; for we find that the time, talents, and learning
Great Britain are almost exclusively devoted to the search
after a remedy for our national difficulties in far distant lands.
Strange infatuation! paralyzing at once the efforts of native
ustry, and closing the only avenue through which we can
ain relief.

Wee

146

In forwarding the outline of my Bullock Boxes, I have
no intention of claiming the merit of invention, or of
originality in any of the experiments that I have made. Were
I to do so, I should put myself upon a level with those pre-
tenders who, having obtained patents for their discoveries,
deprive the real inventors both of the credit and the profit of
their ingenuity.

The system of feeding cattle in boxes has been long partially
practised in various parts of the kingdom, and the growth of
flax, from time immemorial. The fattening of cattle with
linseed was in full operation by the Hindoos 1500 years ago,
and in modern times in England, particularly in Norfolk,
repeated attempts were made by the most expert graziers to
establish the use of linseed, without success.

Summer feeding also in stalls or houses has been long much
practised on the Continent and in Ireland. Turn to the pages
of the Report of the Royal Agricultural Society of England,
to those of the ‘Farmer’s Magazine, and to a pamphlet by
Mr. Hillyard, of Thorplands, Northumberland, and abundant
information on these subjects will be obtained.

In Mr. Baker’s valuable essay on the improvement to be
made in the cultivation of small farms in Ireland by house-
feeding cattle, on green crops, 1 discovered the great benefits
to be derived from that system.

On Mr. Baker’s premises, at Acle, I first saw ; bullocks
and sheep fattened in boxes; and, to the experiments of the
patriotic Sir Edward Stracey in boiling grain, I added the
linseed infusion, and thus produced the incomparable cattle
compound. I merely claim for myself the merit of embodying
the useful ideas and plans of others, in such a form as to render
them a permanent support to every grade of tenant farmer—an
effectual protection to the interests of the landlord, and a
remedy for the present distress arising from the want of
employment. ;

Allow me to thank you for permitting my letters to appear
verbatim. I trust they will not involve you in any heavy
responsibility, since my name will be attached to each; nor will
they occasion any very lengthened controversy, seeing that the
topics advanced are entirely of a practical nature, and easily

147

solved by question and answer. By submitting my letters to
public criticism, before they re-appear in the form of a
_ pamphlet, opportunity will be afforded for objections to be
made and removed. Thus, a work of permanent value would
be produced, which the landlord, the tenant, and the labourer
_ would see it their best interest to support.
gh 'Two objections only have reached me, for which I am much
_obliged—one through the ‘Chronicle’ of last week, “under
_ the sanction,”’ it is said, “of the Hon. W. R. Rous,” President
of the Norfolk Flax Society ; to which I beg to reply, that I
_ write, not for the locality of North Walsham, but for the king-
dom at large.—The other, from a respected correspondent, who
has erred in not perceiving that I used the word “demagogue”
in the plural number with reference to the present state of the
united kingdom, and not as a term of “personal abuse to the
Anti-Corn-Law League.” Nor do I consider the word
-“demagogue” by any means abusive. In the pages of
Universal History it is always applied to parties similar to
_ those whom I venture to oppose. Look at Wales and Ireland,
_aswellas England! Are not itinerant demagogues vigorously
engaged in taking advantage of the prevailing distress amongst
the working classes in order to carry out their revolutionary
designs?
Already I have in some measure foretold that the “cannon’s
mouth might be required to calm our fears; such an expedient
is now in force; but, unless work is provided for the people, I
: repeat that it can only last for a time, because the Hide of an
unemployed population must eventually overwhelm a
_ Can the destruction of Toll-bars, and the non- ota of
Tithes, find employment for the people in Wales? Would the
“3 al of the Union, and the abolition of the Protestant Church
in Ireland, find employment for the starving population of that
_ country? Could a Free Trade in Corn, that would throw out
_ of cultivation half the land in England, find employment for
3 _ our redundant population ?—It would be absurd to suppose
so. Yet the promoters of those agitations, and the leaders
_ whom I designate demagogues, allure their followers into the
» rsuasion that the protective duties—the union between Eng-
, land and Ireland—and the security which the laws afford to
L2

148

private property, are the main barriers against an effectual
employment of the working classes at adequate wages. How
truly it is said of such men, that “a plausible insignificant
word in the mouth of an expert demagogue is a dangeraum and
dreadful weapon !”

The question naturally arises, what is a demagogue? I
reply it is a sort of tumour on the body politic, to reduce which
the unskilful physician applies violent repellants, regardless
of the seat of the disorder ; but the more prudent practitioner
first minutely investigates the cause—there applies the remedy,
and the tumour gradually disappears.—The nation at the pre-
sent time is overrun with these tumours, the cause of which
is the want of employment. To supply this want, I continue
to propose the cultivation of flax, &c., according to the plans
laid down in my pamphlets, which I intend to enforce in the
present series.

Cobbett was a demagogue. Some 20 or 30 years ago, he
paid a visit to the town of Holt, in this county, and sowed the
seeds of disaffection in the minds of many spirited farmers and
tradesmen in that place and neighbourhood. Unhappily the
seed fell on ground prepared. It took root and sprang up;
and when on some public occasion I dined at Holt, the fruit
was fully ripe, for amongst other revolutionary toasts, that
of Mr. Cobbett’s health, with an appropriate sentiment, was
proposed. Upon this announcement I promptly turned down
my glass. I was observed and called to order, but I firmly
resisted the invitation to cheer the man whose politics I per-
ceived were subversive of the best interests even of those who
were so eager to propose the toast. A song followed, the
chorus to which was “ Fall, tyrants, fall.”

It is a remarkable fact, that every applauding individual of
that party, in a very few years, fell one after another,—became
bankrupt, and some were reduced to the extreme of indigence
and misery. Throughout the kingdom thousands of Cobbett’s
adherents met a similar fate. These circumstances I would
gladly have related at the meeting of the Corn-Law League
at Norwich, with the hope that they might serve as a warning
to the tenant farmers of the present day not to be deluded by
the insidious suggestions and schemes proposed for their relief.

149

_ By this motive alone am I now actuated; and most sincerely
do I desire that the miseries to which I have alluded may be
averted from my countrymen; miseries that not only filled
the newspapers with advertisements of the farmers’, but of the
_tradesmen’s stock; when the value of property was reduced to
so low an ebb, that in many instances purchasers were not to
be found even at public auctions. The affecting remembrance
of those times can never be effaced—times that must occur
n under our present circumstances with a free trade in
‘eorn. Then will the tenant, who may have obtained the utmost
“reduction of rent that he could conscientiously ask, perceive tco
late that land rent-free could not prevent his ruin. The free
trade in corn that I would advocate is that which might easily
be derived from the millions of acres of waste lands in Ireland,
which, like Joseph’s granaries, are stored with abundance. To
unlock them it only requires the key of enterprise, and then,
like Joseph, the Irish would freely give us of their corn in
return for our money. The exchange would tend greatly to
advance our sister kingdom, and secure our national inde-
‘pendence. The supply derived from thence, with a general
improvement in our present cultivation, would meet all our
necessities. Home commerce languishes for the circulation of
those sums annually sent abroad for wheat. To ensure per-
manent prosperity to the community, it is said, the price of
wheat ought to fluctuate at a lower rate; I admit it; but at
the same time, I aver that that reduction and fluctuation must
5 De maintained by native resources alone. The price of wheat
ji immaterial to the farmer, provided he is remunerated, which
aw oftener the case, with a plentiful crop and a low price,
with a scanty one and a high price. How anxious then
d he be to increase the productiveness of his land, and to
x his country independent of foreign aid! This may be
plished if British farmers are true to themselves. May
ey firmly resist the temptation to unite in the unreasonable
-outery against their landlords! and soon the present storm will
blow over, the revolutionary clouds be dispersed, and the sun
_ of national prosperity shine again.
_ It is impossible for the inexperienced to form a correct
estimate of the advantages of box-feeding cattle. The plan is

150

simple and feasible,—its greatest recommendation. Lofty and
incomprehensible theories have been too long obtruded upon
the agricultural community, to the exclusion of those benefits
which were absolutely within their grasp. The farmer's
attention has been directed to fattening his cattle upon foreign
food, and to the vain attempt of enriching his land by foreign
manure, instead of obtaining both from the resources of his
own farm. In attempting to point those out, I am sensible
that I shall again be subjected to the fate of a prophet in his
own country.

The sketch, given in the appendix, represents the elevation of
one angle of my boxes, and the ground-plan of the whole, in-
cluding passages, space for cribs, grinding, turnip, grass, and
straw houses. The angle in which the cooking department is
s tuated consists of buildings that were formerly used as stables,
&c. The whole is surrounded by a wall. The cost of erecting
similar boxes, with the same advantage of a wall, including such
materials and labour as could be fairly brought into the account,
would average about thirty shillings a box ; which will be repaid
in less than a year. For instance, if the erection of a box
costs 30s., and the bullock fattened in it pays that sum
more than he would have done if grazed abroad, the money is,
of course, returned to the pocket, and the box remains for
future inhabitants. ‘To be more explicit; let twenty bullocks
be equally divided, and ten fattened in boxes, and ten in the
yard or field. I assert, that the former will pay 15/. more than
the latter. But, in justice to my own experiments, I must
add, that the advantage of box-feeding would be from two
to three pounds per head over the field or yard, and the
extra expense of attendance amply repaid by the economy of
food.

The description of these buildings is difficult, because, how-
ever clear and explicit, it must convey ideas of magnitude and
intricacy, while neither exists. To make ten boxes, a space
will be required of ninety feet long and twelve and a half wide ;
then let a line be drawn from one end to the other three feet
and a half wide from the side most convenient for the passage.
Next let the mould, to the depth of one foot, be excavated from
the other part, and thrown on the side intended for the front,

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151

and spread to the thickness of a foot deep. This will give two
feet from the bottom of the boxes to the surface. <A wall of
brick-work four inches wide and two feet high is next to be
built round the inside of the part excavated, and intersected at
distances of eight feet and a half. At each angle the brick-
work should be about nine or twelve inches square, which will
both support the posts and afford strength and durability.
____ Upon the wall a sill of wood is next to be placed, for which
: _ purpose large poles, either squared or split, are adapted. The

foundation being now complete, posts six feet long, and the
necessary sills and ties, may be placed upon it. Across the ties
the most ordinary poles may be laid to support a roof composed
of the trimmings from hedges and ditches, and completed with
a thatch of straw or rushes. Two gates, according to the draw-
ing, must be added to each box; one of which is to move on
hinges, and the other to be secured to the top and bottom sills
of the building, so as to be taken down at pleasure. Presuming
that we have taken advantage of a barn or other walls on farm
____ premises, the external part is finished. The internal has merely
___ to be parted off with a few poles between each bullock, and the
passage separated by the cribs, which are to move up and down
between the interior posts, which are placed upon the angles of
each box and support the roof on the passage-side.

The superiority of box-feeding and summer-grazing over
any other system, I shall attempt to point out next week; in
the mean time, I offer the following questions for the calm
consideration of all interested persons ; and | hope their caleu-
lations will be made with the aid of pen and ink, that when
mine shall appear they may be compared, squared, and the
balance drawn, and then, I feel persuaded that the account
___will preponderate much in my favour. But there is a spirit
in some men worse than prejudice, which I do not expect to
overcome, nor shall I make the attempt. Time is the best
developer of all things.

Ist. What are the advantages to be obtained by feeding
cattle in boxes, with turnips, and with or without the addition
of artificial food ?

2nd. With grass, with or without the addition of artificial
food ?

*

-
A,

152

3rd. What extra degree of efficacy may be expected from
the box manure over that of the farm-yard ?

In conclusion, I would observe that straw-houses are very
necessary appendages to boxes. Their shape is_immaterial,
and structure simple, According to space in the yard, the
circumference must be adapted. The earth should then be
excavated to the depth of five or six feet, and a wall four
inches thick of brick or stone be built from the bottom to the
surface, which wall is then to be thickened and raised three
feet higher, leaving a space for the door. Upon the wall planks
are to be laid, and posts five or six feet long attached, which
are to be covered over with a roof according to the elevation.
A building of this kind placed near the doors of a barn will be
found at all times most convenient to receive straw from the
thrasher; and being sunk in the ground, is rendered capable
of containing an extra quantity of straw, particularly if trodden
down by a horse.

Joun WARNES.
August 9th, 1843.

P.S.—I subjoin the side-view of the partition-rails, posts,
and tie-beam. It will be seen that the space is greater be-
tween the first and second rail, than those beneath. The reason
for observing this distinction is, that the bullocks may be
allowed space to put their heads through, in order that the
manure may be firmly trodden by the side of the wall and thus
prevent heating.

ei Re A ne

158

No. IV.

Sir,

AN enquiry has been made, as to what reference the
topics upon which I write can have to politics.
I reply, that with the genuine principles of Whigs and
Tories, as such, my propositions do not interfere. But to the
schemes of that party who would extirpate British agriculture,
root and branch, they are diametrically opposed.

Short-sighted, indeed, must such an inquirer be, who cannot
perceive that the want of employment is the source of our
national calamities.

The fattening of cattle upon native produce, with the atten-
dant consequences, would increase the demand for labour, one-
fourth ; that is to say, where three men are now employed,
another will be required.

‘And, with respect to flax, if the nine or ten millions that are
now annually sent out of England to purchase this important
crop, could be circulated at home by the cultivation of the
plant, I think the inquirer would be at a loss to find any re-
dundant population at all.

In St. Andrew’s Hall, Norwich, Mr. Moore admitted that
the soil and climate of Great Britain were superior to any part
of the world for the growth of the plant, but, he added, “'The
people cannot starve till you grow flax.” Mr. Gibson, M.P.,

alluding to the Norfolk Flax Society, at a Manchester meet-

ing, made a similar exclamation. These gentlemen well know,
as do the editors of papers which formerly supported my plans,

that, ifmeans were adopted to employ the people, their powers of
agitation would cease. That we, asa nation, actually possess
those means, it is my constant endeavour to prove. Obstacles
and prejudices are rapidly giving way; the force of truth will

ultimately prevail; and I am confident that the cultivation of

flax, the fattening of cattle upon native produce, box-feeding,
and summer-grazing, need only to be nationally adopted, “to
obtain for the redundant population the employment, agricul-
ture the support, and trade the encouragement—which each so
greatly needs; beeause the cultivation of linseed, the making

154

of artificial food to fatten cattle, and the sale of flax, will be
fresh sources of wealth to the British farmer; because hands
must be drawn from the manufacturing towns to prepare the
flax for market; and because an impetus would be given to
home-trade in general by the increased price of wages, and by
the consequent consumption of all the common necessaries of
life.” |

With these preliminary observations I shall proceed to point
out, in some measure, the advantages of box-feeding and
summer-grazing over the present system of fattening and feed-
ing cattle in yards or fields. I say in some measure, for how-
ever correct my calculations relative to the direct, it is impossible
to form any adequate estimate of the indirect advantages.
These flow through innumerable channels, and merge at last
into an ocean of national benefits; which, to the eye fixed only
upon individual profit, would cease to be discerned ; while the
sagacious statesman, the moral philosopher, and the Christian
philanthropist, will readily perceive and acknowledge their
universal importance.

These sentiments may perhaps be considered by some of
your readers as too lofty for our humble theme; but be it
remembered, that the most enlightened minds ever have been,
and still are, devoted with increasing fervour, to the study of
agriculture. And I would ask, whence springs our national
wealth, if not from the manure that fructifies the soil? Hence,
to use the language of the poet, .

*¢ Britannia sees
Her solid grandeur rise.”

With respect to the calculations promised in my former
letter, I would observe, that the advantages of feeding cattle
in boxes consist in the absence of all that waste of food, which
ina yard it is impossible to prevent. In boxes, opportunity
is afforded for placing before each bullock an equal portion of
turnips, which cannot be the case ina yard where cattle are in-
discriminately mixed.

In boxes, every bullock can eat at his leisure, ruminate un-
molested, and take his rest.

In a yard, the master-cattle consume the choicest parts of the

4
:
4
-

7! Parer

155

| 4 turnips. They delight in goading and driving the underlings

- about, and allow them but little rest.

__ _ Hence the great inequality observable in the condition of
- yard-fed bullocks compared to those in stalls; and hence the
_ astonishment so often expressed by farmers, that, after their
fattest beasts have been sent to market, the remainder thrive
rapidly. It is then perceived that those bullocks which
appear the least prone to fatten, would perhaps have been the
forwardest, had they been separate from the others.

On these several accounts, boxes are much to be preferred to
_ yards ; but when artificial food is added to turnips, their value
is still further enhanced.—For, if the master-bullock will drive
away an underling for the sake of a choice piece of turnip, he
will naturally be more resolute to obtain an undue share of
oil-eake, or of the still more palatable compound.

In fact, the system of feeding cattle in boxes can be regulated
to the greatest nicety ; while that in the yard must ever remain
slovenly, wasteful, and imperfect.

If such terms as these can be applied to winter-feeding, they
are far more applicable to our present system of summer-feed-
ing. ‘To obtain a crop of turnips, neither cost nor trouble are
spared, and the greatest skill and anxiety are displayed;
while for grass comparatively little expense is bestowed, and
little care taken.

Turnips are called the “ Sheet Anchor to Norfolk Farmers ;”
because upon this crop they mainly depend for a supply of
manure. Turnips are also called “a necessary evil,” on
account of the return for grazing being, in the average of
years, less than the expenditure. But grass, except under the
denomination of hay, or as an accommodation for lean stock
and farm horses, is seldom heard of. Now, were only half the
cost and skill bestowed to increase the productiveness of grass,
and that grass given to cattle in boxes according to my plans,
farmers might fearlessly cut the cable,escape from the sheet
anchor and necessary evil at once, and pursue the course which
the title to my letters so clearly points out.

I wish it to be understood, that I aim not at the abolition of
the turnip crop, but merely at its not being the main depen-
dence for fattening cattle, and for making manure.

156

From experiments made by several members of the North
Walsham Farmers’ Club, aided by my own, I believe the aver-
age weight of turnips, when deprived of their tops and tails,
would not exceed eight or ten tons per acre. From similar
experiments with grass in its moist juicy state, I conclude that
the average weight would be eight tons per acre; therefore, as
far as weight is concerned, cattle would be fed at as cheap a
rate on one description of food as on the other. But it appears
that they consume at least a third less of grass per day than
of turnips; therefore, an acre of grass will go much further
than an acre of turnips. But grass does not retain its greatest
weight, nor last so long as turnips; true, but provision can be
made to meet this deficiency. For instance, on my own farm
throughout this summer, an uniform weight and succession of
green crops has been kept up, aided for the first fortnight by
straw cut’short and soaked in boiling linseed meal and water.
First, my bullocks began with lucern—next clover—afterwards
the second crop of lucern—at the present time the second crop of
clover and the third crop of lucern, as fine and heavy as the first.

Perhaps it may be objected that the present season is par-
ticularly favourable for grass: true, but last summer it was
far otherwise; and yet, with the assistance of early potatoes,
upon the plan contained in my ‘Suggestions,’ the grass was
economized, and an abundant supply of food obtained.

And here I must observe, that I cannot enforce this part
of my subject better than by giving the following extract
from the pamphlet alluded to :—* A piece of lucern, in pro-
portion to the size of every farm, ought to be grown, and a
few acres of early potatoes planted—these will always afford a
supply, should the grass at any time fail ; and they will be found
convenient as a change of food. Ifnot wanted, the potatoes of
course will remain as winter store. To this system let the use
of compound be added, and the farmer will be rendered compa-
ratively independent of turnips, which at best is an expensive
and precarious crop.”

My present experience corroborates the above statements,
and warrants me in asserting, that the profits of summer-graz-
ing in boxes will be found at least equal to those of winter.
But, with respect to the advantages of feeding cattle with

ee

157

grass in boxes rather than in the field, I have not been able to
arrive at such accurate conclusions; nor would the limits of a
letter permit me minutely to point them out. Let it suffice,
that where grass can be produced sufficiently long for mowing
{and I should be glad to learn on what farm it cannot] double
the quantity of cattle may easily be fed from the same breadth
of land.

_ Indeed it would be difficult to offer an opinion as to the |

quantity of grass that land in general might be made to pro-
duce, or the number of cattle kept; for, by the application of
manure, clover will yield three successive crops in one season.
I have no doubt but that this description of grass on the best
lands in Norfolk often produces 12 or 16 tons per acre; nearly
the whole of which is made into hay for winter store—the fat-
tening qualities destroyed—and the opportunity of grazing a
quantity of cattle, and obtaining a supply of superior manure,
thrown away. I repeat, fattening qualities thrown away, be-
cause who ever saw a bullock fattened exclusively upon hay,
or a horse that could perform his ordinary work through the
winter with hay alone?

From an experiment that I made last year, it appears that
the weight of grass, when made into hay, is reduced about six
and a half to one ; that is to say, eight stone of grass will make
only one stone and a half of hay.

I had grass weighed to six horses three weeks since; when
they consumed at the rate of forty-four stone per day. Now
-had these six horses been fed exclusively upon hay, I calculate
they would have eaten eighteen stone per day. To obtain
eighteen stone of hay, according to the above experiment, 96
stone of grass would be required. But the horses ate only 44
stone, which is 52 stone less. ‘Therefore we may fairly assume
that, if every eighteen stone of hay had been given to cattle in
the form of grass, it would have gone as far again. But ob-
serve, this merely applies to the first mowing.

Boxes are, I am happy to say, being erected by many agri-
culturists in my own neighbourhood, and in other parts of the
kingdom. And ere long, I expect that a farmer will as soon
think of turning twenty bullocks into twenty acres of tomate
as into twenty acres of grass.

158

Many observations upon the efficacy that may be expected
from the box manure over that of the farm-yard must be de-
ferred till next week.

Joun WARNEs.
August 30th, 1843.

No. V.
Sir,

In accordance with my plan of answering objections to
the above subjects, I cannot allow the letter which Mr. Rich-
ardson, of Heydon, published in the Norwich Mercury, and also
in the Farmers’ Journal, to pass unnoticed. “ Let me ask,” he
says, “does a farmer like trouble? Will he go daily and see the
fire lighted, the boilers cleaned, his articles properly crushed
and meted out in due proportions, properly boiled, cooked,
cooled, weighed, and given to his cattle? I may say, for the
whole brigade, no, no. They are not men of that sort. I am
a bit of a farmer myself, and have some little knoweaee of their
likes and dislikes.”

It is extraordinary that this gentleman could venture to in-
clude all the farmers of Great Britain under the fanciful term
of “a Brigade,” which is merely a detachment from the main
body of an army. But, perhaps, he had principally in view the
tenant-farmers on the Heydon estate, under his own immedi-
ate influence. These, perchance, he might array against the
cattle-compound. But I can assure him ‘that, encamped around
North Walsham alone, is a large army brave and true, which
unflinchingly encounters “ buildings, boilers, steamers, crush-
ing-machines, troughs, tubs, and even poles” that cost two
shillings per dozen; an army that is daily being augmented by
the most industrious, enlightened, and intelligent agricultur-
ists in that neighbourhood, who have shaken off their allegiance
to foreign oil-cake ; and despite of the phantoms summoned
from the depths of Mr. Richardson’s imagination, are deter-
mined not only to see the fire lighted, and the boilers cleaned,
if need be, but also to see the ‘ Articles” [which form the
compound] properly crushed and meted out, boiled, cooked,

159

_ weighed, and at last given to their cattle. I repeat, that a
multitude of farmers and gentlemen, stimulated by the North
Walsham Club, had the courage last year to
encounter these horrors; and all came off victo-
rious. In the present year, legions of agricul-
turists are mustering; not only in this, but
also in distant counties. They are fast buck-
ling on their armour to engage in this new
and lucrative branch now added to the routine
of farm-business. But observe, instead of
boilers, steamers, crushing-machines, troughs,
tubs, and poles, all the apparatus really re-
quired worth notice, where the grinding is done
at a mill, consists of an iron copper, at the
cost of about twenty or thirty shillings, and a three-pronged
fork, like Neptune’s Trident, to stir up this ocean of national
wealth.

_ With respect to Mr. Postle, and the members of the North
Walsham Farmers’ Club, to whom Mr. Richardson hasalluded,
they require not my feeble aid to rescue them from the odium
of having attempted to palm on the country a fictitious report.
But I must express my astonishment that a mind so acute as
Mr. Richardson’s is reputed to be, should not have perceived
_ the propriety of minutely enquiring into the particulars con-
nected with the experiment in question, before an essay was
made to turn it into universal contempt. Had this honourable
course been pursued, Mr. Richardson would have avoided the
errors with which his letter abounds. He would have dis-
covered, also, that farmers were governed by the laws of reason
and the dictates of common sense; and not, as he expresses it,
_ by the “ Likes and Dislikes” that regulate the actions of the
brute creation.

For example: The North Walsham Farmers’ Club is go-
verned by certain rules, one of which enjoins the discussion of
such subjects only as were proposed at a previous meeting.
Another, that no topics of a political tendency shall be intro-
duced, or any thing irrevelant to the direct advancement of
agriculture.

Amongst its large body of members are enrolled the names

160

of Lord Wodehouse, W. Windham, Esq., and many of the
gentry and clergy in that part of the county, independent of
all party considerations.

The fattening of cattle wpon native produce formed the sub-
ject of many consultations, experiments, and tests. The system
was fully developed in my pamphlet and letters, and particu-
larly illustrated at two meetings in the town of North Walsham,

convened by advertisements ‘and circulars, of which the follow-

ing are extracts :—

“NORTH WALSHAM FARMERS’ CLUB.
“ The Hon. W. R. Rous, President.

* An especial meeting of this Society will be held on Thurs-
day, the 19th of May, for the purpose of ‘ Enquiring into the
results of experiments made by several members of the Club,
in grazing bullocks with linseed compounds instead of oil-cake.’
Cattle, and samples of the compounds with which they have
been fed, will be shewn in the yard of the Bear Inn, at four
o'clock. At the same time linseed will be formed into com-
pound on the spot. The public are cordially invited to a
critical investigation of the exhibitions, and also to join the
club in the evening’s discussion on the importance of fattening
cattle on native instead of foreign produce.

«G. Gower, Hon. Sec.”

At this meeting Mr. Richardson himself was present; and
in consequence of his doubts and scruples, some of the bullocks
were sent back with an assurance that they should be re-
exhibited at some future time, of which due notice would be
given.

Accordingly, on the 28th of October, Mr. Gower again issued
an advertisement in each of the Norwich papers, and distributed
nearly a thousand circulars, chiefly by post, inviting the public
to the annual meeting and dinner of the Society, and to the
exhibition especially of the bullocks shewn on the 19th of
May, which were to be slaughtered on the occasion, &e.

The cattle were shewn, killed, weighed; and the result
of the experiment explained much to the satisfaction of a very

ips NN SVE

16]

crowded and influential assembly ; but Mr. Richardson did not
appear, though a circular was directed particularly to him.
_ Reporters, however, for the Norwich, Bury, and Ipswich papers
were present, whose detailed accounts, it was thought, aided
by the forcible and appropriate remarks of the Editors, could
not fail to convince the most sceptical. But the persevering
caviller and the inveterate bigot, being in their very nature
incurable, remained of course unconvinced.
_ To counteract the baneful influence of such folks, the North
Walsham Club offered by a challenge through the Norwich
and London papers, to test the merits of the compound with
oil-cake; which challenge not being accepted, Mr. Postle de-
termined to try the experiment upon his own premises, which he
did in the most impartial and correct manner. In the mean
time the public were invited to inspect the cattle, and the new
mode of grazing, through a letter in the county papers. Nu-
merous visitors, some from considerable distances, availed
themselves of the opportunity; and on the 12th of May, in
particular, two or three hundred persons examined the cattle.

9 In due time Mr. Postle advertised the day when his bullocks

were to be shewn and weighed on Norwich Hill. During the
whole of this period, namely, from the 19th of May, nothing
was heard of Mr. Richardson till after he had written his
letter, a document fraught with incongruity.

For instance, he observes in his letter addressed to the

Editor of the Farmers’ Journal, “You must, or at least those

who sent forth the facts, ought to have recollected, that the
‘six compound beasts had an average of twelve stone in their
favour when put to feed. This twelve stone has not been
deducted either from the time when weighed fat, nor when
slaughtered. So, the real facts are, that the six compound
beasts, when fat, did not weigh twenty stone more than the
others, but just eight. And when slaughtered, not fifty stone
six pounds!!! but just thirty eight!!!” He adds further,
“TT suppose you intend to make the compound cattle a present
of these articles [alluding to boilers, &e.] as you did the twelve
_ stone at the beginning.” But what a mistake!!! whether
wilful or not, an extract from the Report of the experiment in
question, contained in the above journal, will best determine.
M

162

«When selected, which they were by lot, the six beasts to be
fed on compound weighed 602 stone, and those to be fed on oil-
cake, 590 stone. When fat, the live weight of the former was
725 stone; of the latter, 705 stone, being a difference of eight
stone [the 12 stone overweight at the first being deducted] in
favour of those fed on compound. But it was in the dead
weight of each lot that the greatest difference was shown—the
“compound-fed yielding 44 stone nine pounds of meat more
than those fed on oil-cake; but, taking the loose fat and hides,
the difference in favour of the former was 50 stone six pounds —
or 38 stone six pounds, deducting the 12 stone original extra
live weight. While there is this increase of produce, there is a
considerable decrease of expense between those fed on home
produce, and those fed on foreign oil-cake. The former con-
sumed a smaller quantity of turnips than the latter; and the

cost of the compound was only 19/. 6s. 14d., whilst that of the ~

oil-cake was 217. 14s. 9d.

“The public are much indebted to Mr. Postle for the great
care with which this experiment has been carried through; and
for the pains taken to procure an accurate and satisfactory
statement of the result.”

But perhaps it may be asked, from what source was the |

London journal furnished with the information? I ‘answer,
from the best of sources—the clear and explicit report of the
Norfolk Chronicle. Again, it may be asked, did Mr. Richard-
son see this report? I reply, that he receives the Farmers’
Journal.

In concluding his letter, Mr. Richardson sagely LS EY
« Far be it from me either to insinuate or charge any gentleman
connected with this matter, of pablishing that which is untrue.”
And yet, he accuses a committee that was never formed—a
party that never existed, with having “ withheld information,”

and “done themselves great discredit,” that their “statements

are incorrect” and “accounts fallacious,” evineing “a want of
candid, open, and honourable disclosures.”

Thus has Mr. Richardson evinced a wanton hostility iwaids
the promoters of a great and beneficial cause; and, to use his
own words, ‘done himself great discredit.” I say, a great

163

cause, because the efforts of the North Walsham Farmers’
_ Club are directed to the welfare of the labourer, the interest
of the farmer, and the security of the landowner. Knowing
the peculiarity of Mr. Richardson’s position relative to those
_ several parties, the club invited him to their meetings, in
order that he might be enabled to adopt a system that would
tend to improve the barren lands of Heydon and of Cawston,
and to confer a permanent benefit upon ‘the proprietor, the
. tenantry, and the poor.
_ It was unquestionably his duty to have enquired diligently
‘into the merits ofa measure fraught with such incalculable ad-
vantages to agriculture as the substitution of native produce
for foreign oil-cake, and to have tested Mr. Postle’s experiment
by a similar process, before he ventured to denounce it so
unscrupulously and so unjustly. If Mr. Richardson could be
**startled’’ at Mr. Postle’s announcement, how will he be
| alarmed at the sound of my forthcoming report on fattening
cattle with native produce! Severe as the shock may prove,
prejudice must at last be conquered. Yes, conquered—be-
cause what power can withstand the force of profit? for profit,
like mercury, penetrates the joints and marrow, conquering
“more surely than the point of the bayonet. Encountered at
every turn by profit, his whole “ brigade,” too, must ultimately
be overcome. .

Without this powerful ally, I am aware that my letters and

__ varied labours would be unavailing. Could I call to my aid
___ the eloquence of Demosthenes, and the charms of Cicero, they
would fail to move the British farmer; but when he knows
a that I am on intimate terms with profit, he will cease from a
_ contest, the prolongation of which can only serve to retard his
own advancement.
____ I must now, contrary to my original intention, bring this let-
tertoa conclusion, withont proceeding with my main subject.
a The above strictures will occupy morespace in your columns than
a ni expected. Therefore, with your permission, I will resume
a the even tenour of my course at a future opportunity. In the
; 7 mean time I shall visit distant counties, by invitation, to com-
_ municate with influential parties on the important subjects
op fae mM 2

TS TOE ee ee ee ee

164

of this series. On my return I shall be happy to afford the
public, through your valuable journal, any useful information
that I may be so fortunate as to obtain.

JouN WARNES.
Sept. 9th, 1845.

No. VI.

Sir,

An account of the excursion to which I alluded in the
conclusion of my last letter, is in some measure anticipated by
the report of the meeting of the Ipswich and Ashbocking lar-
mers’ Club. To this meeting I was invited as a preliminary
step to the formation of a Grand National Association to carry
out my plans of finding employment for the redundant popula-
tion of the United Kingdom through the cultivation of flax, the
forming of the seed into food to fatten cattle, and the fibre into
an article of manufacture.

I had previously been introduced to several highly influen-
tial parties in London, Sussex, and Essex; and it was to me
infinitely gratifying, that, though separated by distance, and
many unknown to each other, they all acquiesced in the desir-
ableness of such an establishment.

At Ipswich arrangements will be made upon an extensive
scale, to afford the clearest information relative to the above
object, by an exhibition of flax in all its stages, the various
processes connected with its preparation for market, and the
method of forming the seed into cattle food. Model boxes are
to be erected, crushing machines and steamers will be exhibited
at work, and every description of agricultural machine submitted
to inspection. In fine, neither expense nor pains will be spared
to render the exhibitions at once interesting, instructive, and
profitable.

This year many acres of flax were grown, and many bullocks
fattened with linseed compound in the neighbourhood of I pswich.
'The result of these experiments proving satisfactory, several

165

gentlemen were induced to inspect the extensive crops of flax,
and the system of grazing in Norfolk. The information thus
derived, added to their own experience, originated the present
patriotic undertaking ; an undertaking which is being con-
ducted with a spirit and decision that insure success.

To the Ipswich and Ashbocking Farmers’ Club am I peculi-
arly indebted for the prospect of personally advocating those
projects to which my time and my pen have been so long and

4 _ so successfully devoted - successfully, because the increased

employment afforded in the parishes where flax has been grown,
and the compound used, is the realization, upon a small scale, of
the effect that must follow a universal adoption of my plan.

In my pamphlets and letters, independent of the present
series, | have shown the value of the flax crop in this, and in
foreign countries—that from nine to twelve millions a-year
are annually sent out of the country for the purchase of flax,
linseed, oil, and cake, to the encouragement of foreign agricul-
ture and to the support of foreign labourers—that this im-
portant crop can be produced from our own soil, and would
provide abundant employment both for the rural and for the
manufacturing population—that the circulation of the above
millions would repeal the poor rate, abolish union workhouses,
secure to the labourer a just rate of wages, to the farmer a
remunerating price for his produce, and to the landowner the
value of his property ; also that the clergyman, the manufac-
turer, the merchant, and the tradesman, would all reap a pro-

rtionable benefit. I have shown that the agitations in Wales
for the abolition of the poor law and tolls, in Ireland for the
repeal of the Union, and in England for. free trade, universal _
suffrage, and a paper currency, are chimerical schemes, because
if all were enforced no adequate employment could be found
for the people. I have endeavoured to prove that the remedy
for our national distress can easily be derived from our own
soil, and that native skill and industry only require encourage-
ment and support to render us independent of foreign resources
either for food or for clothing. That, instead of being importers
of barley and meat in the shape of oil-cake, we might annually
export largely of barley in the shape of flax; and obtain, from
the cultivation of this prolific plant, infinitely more tons of

166

linseed to fatten our cattle than were ever received of cake from
foreign’ countries; also, that the appropriation of a large
breadth of land to flax would enhance the price.of barley in
particular, and enable the farmer to place the proceeds of his
grazing account in his own pocket rather than in that of the
foreigner. I have shown that a compound made of linseed
and grain is superior to foreign oil-cake; a fact that has been
proved on many farms in Norfolk and Suffolk, and exemplified
with peculiar clearness by Mr. Postle’s experiment, whose six
bullocks fattened on compound paid, in the short space of six
months, nearly three pounds per head more than an equal
number fed on oil-cake. I have recorded three public meetings
at which the method of making this food was exhibited; also
the speeches of the noblemen and gentlemen present on those
occasions; with other documents showing the immense advan-
tage that the British nation would derive from the cultivation
of flax. In consequence, experiments have been made by
gentlemen in many parts of the kingdom, who have forwarded
to me samples of their flax, with descriptions of the soil whence
grown; from which I gather, that the most ordimary land,

under proper treatment, will produce flax of the finest deserip-
tion; and that the adaptation of our country to the culture of
this important plant is indisputably proved.

I have shown that flax is worth more per acre, and affords
more employment, than any other production of the earth, and
that the acreable value of good flax to the grower varies from
151. to 301. per acre; but I have not ascertained its worth when’
manufactured into linen or other articles of commerce—lI be-
lieve, however, several hundred pounds per acre. From a
document now before me, I perceive, that an extensive cultiva-
tion of flax was strongly recommended in 1742 as a source of
permanent employment. Since that time Acts of Parliament
have been passed, and premiums offered, to encourage its
growth. But for the space of 15 years no candidate appeared
to claim a premium. I have shown that the objections made
in those times to the growth of flax, are, in the present, com-
pletely removed. For, under the improved system of manage-
ment, instead of impoverishing it enriches the soil; and that
its introduction into our rotation of crops would be of in-

167

estimable service to the agriculture and commerce of this
country. i)

_ It may be objected that the ingenuity of man is always de-
vising schemes to obviate the necessity of employing workmen.
True. But if a fair proportion of mental power were brought
into the opposite service, this difficulty would be overruled, and
the most beneficial results accrue. Let mind encounter mind,

3 and thought meet thought. And while one party succeeds in
____ ¢losing a door to maintenance, the other will immediately open

a Mew one. For instance, machines called Mules and Iron-men
have thrown thousands of able-bodied operatives out of work,
and reduced the wages of others to a starvation price; while,
on the other hand, the cultivation of flax has commenced,
which only requires to be nationally adopted to obtain for the
redundant population the employment, agriculture the sup-
port, and trade the encouragement, which each so greatly
_ To imsure success, a clear recognition of the solid principles
of Christian philanthropy, and an unconquerable determina-
tion to bring them into operation, are indispensable. Upon
these principles will our project be conducted, aided by a code
of rules and regulations which will doubtless receive the sanc-
tion and support of every true lover of his country.

_ It is impossible, upon the present occasion, to enter into
every minute particular; but I offer the following outline of
the plans suggested, that the public may form an idea of the
nature and design of the projected institution, and be induced
to strengthen the cause by their co-operation.

It is proposed to limit the existence of the Society to the
period of four years; and that no expenditure of time or of
_ funds upon yearly entertainments, or upon anything foreign to
the direct object, will be allowed. Hence it will be seen that
expedition, zeal, and perseverance will be the distinguishing
features of the Society’s proceedings. That the interests of
Farmers’ Clubs, Agricultural Associations, and Local Institu-
tutions, be especially advanced. That instructions for prepar-
ing the land, sowing the seed, and after-management of the
flax crop, be afforded through working agents. That suitable
persons be provided to teach children the art of spinning flax,

168

and of converting it into useful articles—That premiums be
given to cottagers for growing flax in their gardens, and to
their children for spinning and knitting the yarn into stockings
and gloves.—That information on the most improved modes of
husbandry, the new system of grazing with compound, summer
feeding in boxes, &c. &c., be effectually and speedily dissemi-
nated by the location of experienced labourers for a few months
where needed, in exchange for others to be taught on farms from
whence those labourers were sent: that while some were.com-
municating, others would be receiving instruction. The wages
of these men to be paid by their employers, and the cost of
their journeys by the Society.— That an interchange of visits
be promoted between intelligent agriculturists of different
counties, and their travelling expenses paid by the Association.
—That similar facilities be afforded to gentlemen of leisure and
patriotism, whose services, in attending public meetings, and
in conferring with interested parties, would be of the utmost
importance. Lastly, that a weekly paper containing an account
of all the Society’s proceedings, and affording authentic informa-
tion of all important agricultural topics, be regularly forwarded
to every subscriber, that through this medium correspondences
might be conducted, intelligence conveyed, and scientific expe-
riments recorded.

I hope that this brief outline will in some measure convey
suitable ideas of a project that aims at the benefit of all, and at
the injury of none; a project, which, if carried into execution,
will open wide to the poor the doors of maintenance, admitting
work and wages, liberty and independence, peace and content-
ment, without infringing upon the rights of private property or
endangering the safety of the State. I entertain no fear of not
realizing these happy results, provided the possessors of the soil
support our cause. Upon their decision, and upon the aid and
co-operation of British philanthropy relative to the above pa-
triotic designs, hangs the fate of thousands. Nor can it be sup-
posed that the necessary funds will be withheld, when we
consider the twenty millions expended for the emancipation
of the West Indian slaves; the eight hundred thousand an-
nually subscribed to Foreign Missions, to instruct heathen na-
tions in religion and in the arts and sciences of civilized life; the

169

costly Niger expedition, to introduce British husbandry into
Africa, to establish model farms, and to teach the natives
the value of their own soil and of their own people, while mil-
lions of acres of our own land lie waste, and thousands of our
labourers, for want of work, are reduced toa state of misery
and destitution that appals the hearts of those who desire to
relieve but possess not the means. These and similar instances
might be adduced to show the immense amount both of public
and private money devoted to advance the interests of those
whom we never see, while the wants of multitudes of our own
people, whom we see every day, remain neglected and forgotten.
Christianity accepts not zeal in the cause of foreign duties as a
compensation for the neglect of those at home. ‘‘ These ought
ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.”

I hope that the above remark will not be considered as con-
demnatory of missionary labours. But I wish to impress
every considerate mind with a conviction that, were only half
the zeal and talent, with a trifling per centage on the sums re-
_ ferred to, expended upon improving the condition of our own
people, the face of this country would soon wear a different
aspect, our national difficulties be removed, and a noble work
accomplished that would at once redound to the credit of man
and to the glory of God.

I am, Sir,

Your most obedient Servant,

Joun WARNES.

Oct. 9, 1843.

No. VII.
Sir,

Hirnerto | have experienced your undeviating support
in promoting the above objects for the benefit of the rural po-
pulation ; with what success, the recent meeting at Ipswich can
best testify. Our efforts have resulted in the formation of a
National Flax Association, the medium, I have no doubt,
through which the country at large will derive all the benefits

170

that I have so long predicted. For obvious reasons the wheels
of so mighty a machine cannot be set in motion without con-
siderable preparation. In the mean time, I desire to draw
your attention to claims nearer home—even to those of your
fellow citizens. So inseparable is the union between the agri-
culture and home commerce of this great country, that it is
impossible for one to be advanced or depressed without the
other being similarly affected. They are the main pillars of
national prosperity ; for when provisions and wares meet a
ready sale, the labourer and artisan are employed, and the
farmer and tradesman flourish. Constant work facilitates con-
sumption; it is therefore our duty and interest to promote
employment in every possible way, both for the labourer in the
field, and mechanic in the city.

Under this conviction, I have been led to consider home far
the manufacturing towns in England would be benefited, pro-
vided the agricultural districts in which they are situated
derived those advantages from the cultivation of flax, and the
use of the seed, which I anticipate. It appears to me, that all
would reap considerable benefit except the city of Norwich.
The reason is obvious. Norwich does not manufacture the
articles which the agricultural population of Norfolk consumes.
She is, comparatively, the retail shop, at a prescribed profit,
for the manufactures of other places. For instance, Man-
' chester, Birmingham, and Sheffield, manufacture the articles
required by the rural districts. ‘The artisans, therefore, of
those towns derive increased employment and wages, according
to the demand from, and prosperity of, the country. But as
Norwich merely sells the manufactures of Manchester, Bir-
mingham, and Sheffield, the briskness of trade in the retail
shops produces no corresponding advantage to the artisans of
the city. The value of the goods wrought by them is not so
materially influenced by agricultural prosperity as to occasion
an advance in the rate of wages. Hence the slightest rise in
the price of provisions lessens their means of subsistence and
increases their misery.

If these remarks can be applied to the operatives who are
actually employed, with how much greater force may they be
directed to those who have no work at all, and who cke out a

171

wretched existence, mainly depending upon inadequate rates,
and uncertain charity. The branches of trade in which these
unfortunate men were engaged, flourished only with the fashion
of the day. Hence the extinction of their means of support. I
am not speaking of an idle rabble, but of the genuine Norwich
operative, to whose skill and ingenuity the whole world bears
testimony—for what quarter of the globe is unacquainted with
the admirable productions of the Norwich factories?

- Seeing, then, that a return of agricultural prosperity to the
county of Norfolk would not produce the desired relief to the
artisans of Norwich; and seeing that the interests of Man-
chester, Birmingham, and Sheffield, are advanced when success
attends the plough; it must, unquestionably, be of paramount
importance to Norwich to establish within her walls a trade
that would produce a reciprocity of commerce between the city
and the county. Undoubtedly the establishment of factories
in Norwich to supply the country with those things to which I
have alluded, would, eventually, be of great benefit to the city.
But as other places would be injured by the transfer, and no
real benefit conferred upon the community at large, I aim not
at removing the trades of one town to another. My desire is
to see established in the city of Norwich, a new, lucrative, and
permanent branch of business. And, if there is one branch
more suited than another to the genius, habits, and present
cireumstances of the citizens, that branch is the linen trade—a
trade for the introduction of which peculiar facilities abound,
in unemployed capital, machinery, and men; a trade that
would quickly render her citizens famed for their exquisite in-
genuity, as unrivalled in the splendour of their damask linen,
as they now are in the elegance of their shawls; a trade among
the numerous ramifications of which, the business of bleaching
is not the least profitable, and for the conducting of which the
atmosphere and meadows around the city are singularly adapt-
ed; a trade that would receive a constant supply of the raw
material, not from foreign resources, to the profit of foreign
farmers, and to the employment of foreign labourers, but from
her own county, to the profit of Norfolk farmers, and to the
employment of Norfolk labourers. Thus would money flow
from the city to the country, and from the country to the city,

172

and a reciprocity of interest be cemented, to the incalculable
benefit of both. As a lively illustration of our future pro-
spects, I subjoin an extract from a letter received a few days
since from a correspondent, residing in the Isle of Man, whom
I have never seen.

“Glen Villa, near Douglas, November 7th.
“Dear Sir,

« At the desire of Mr. Hardy, of Violet Hill, I visited
a flax mill belonging to Mr. Hutcheson, of Market Hill (an
agent for the purchase of flax for Messrs. Marshall, of Leeds),
who has some improved machinery for breaking flax, and who
intends exhibiting it this week at Belfast, for the 100J. prize.
It did the work very well. Four girls broke sufficient for 14 -
scutchers and cleaners-off. I was astonished to see in the yard
161 stacks of watered flax, waiting to be dressed. But my
surprise was much increased when Mr. Hardy told me that in
Armagh and Tandragee markets, from eight to ten thousand
pounds’ worth of flax was sold at each market-day—had com-
menced as soon as any was ready, and would continue until
about Christmas.

“IT remain, yours truly,

“ RicHARD NECKLIN.”

The above account so remarkably corroborates my own
statements in St. Andrew’s Hall, on the 6th of January last,
that I cannot refrain from repeating them on the present
occasion.

“Methinks I see the flax market at Norwich, like the Thurs-
day market at Tandragee, which I lately witnessed in Ireland,
and the farmers busied in selling flax, and putting the ready
money in their pockets. It was a cheering sight, but not a
very brisk day; yet flax to the amount of three thousand
pounds was sold by farmers, whose occupations were all ex-
tremely small, not one of which, as I understood, exceeded fifty
acres.

The walls of Norwich are surrounded by many thousand
acres of ordinary land, much of which now lies uncultivated and.

173

neglected, under the supposition of being worthless. It appears,
however, from recent experiments, that all of it, if properly
prepared, would produce flax of a very superior quality, and
leave the land ever after in a better state for producing other
crops. Much of the land lies so near the city, that the inhabit-
ants could, in the summer, issue from her gates in the morning,
perform the labours of the flax-fields, and return in the even-
ing. In the winter, they would find ample employment in the
various processes connected with the preparation of the fibre for
market. That the climate is congenial, the flax grown by Mr.
Wn. Herring, and by Mr. Matchett, in the heart of Norwich,
bore ample testimony at the late exhibition at Ipswich. Thus
it appears, that Norwich possesses the power not only of manu-
facturing, but also of affording great facility and encouragement
to the growth of flax. Now, that which might be imprudent
for private enterprise to undertake, would be the height of
prudence for the combined interests of Norwich to attempt.
For instance, no individual would venture to cultivate the land
now lying waste on Mousehold-heath, because he must incur a
certain loss; but were Norwich to make the experiment, a
profit would certainly be obtained ; because, if the thousands
of pounds that are expended every year in rates and charity
upon the able-bodied operatives, were paid to them in the form
of wages, for trenching, manuring, and preparing the land for
a crop of flax, the value of every bushel of seed, and every
stone of flax so obtained, would be returned to the common
stock a clear gain; for the labour, the money, and the land are
now lost entirely ; to which may be added a sufficient supply
of manure, that might be easily preserved, without interfering
with the farmer's soil-cart, or the scavenger’s perquisite. Com-
mon sense, under the influence of sound Christian principle,
invokes the authorities of Norwich to make the experiment ; and
if they inquire, whether I have any additional grounds to sub-
stantiate my calculations upon as to the future productiveness
of this barren land? I refer them to soils of a similar descrip-
tion, that have produced fine flax and fine seed, without any
extra tillage. Ist, From the heath at Witton, on the estate of
the Right Hon. Lord Wodehouse.—2nd, Upon the hills at
Sherringham, belonging to Abbott Upcher, Esq.—3rd, From

174

the heath at Stratton Strawless, on the property of Robert
Marsham, Esq., and at Snare Hill, grown by H. C. Partridge,
Esq. ‘These references are sufficient, I trust, to guide the
most critical inquirer; if not, I can readily offer him many
more. But of all the successful and convincing experiments
that I could advance, by far the most important to our present
project is that made by Mr. Feltom, upon one of the worst
spots of Mousehould-heath itself; the crop of seed from which
was of an excellent quality, and the stalks of flax ranked
amongst the finest at the recent exhibition at Ipswich.

But it may be objected that the habits and constitution of the
Norwich weaver are ill-adapted to the work required. I reply,
that about forty years ago, the weaving trade failed in the vil-
lages around Aylsham, and the men were reduced to the greatest
straits. At that period my father purchased the Bolwick Hall
Estate, adjoining which was a tract of what had a few years
before been common land, lying nearly in its original worthless
state. To improve it, many hands were required, and my
father, yielding to the numerous applications for employment,
set the weavers to dig, trench, level, and otherwise improve the
land in question. At first, they were paid only a few shillings
per week ; but when their hands became seasoned, arms nerved,
and sinews braced to the-work, they received the usual rate
of wages. ‘Thus was land reclaimed, and rendered fruitful
through the instrumentality of just such men as those in Nor-
wich, who could as easily reclaim and render fruitful the
worthless Mouschold-heath. To what quarter then are we to
look for objections to measures that would render a barren soil
productive—ease the city rates—lessen the calls of charity, and
improve the condition of our fellow-men, whose unparalleled
sufferings excite our deepest sympathy, and claim our utmost
exertions to alleviate; sufferings which, to the credit of the
city, draw forth yearly charitable contributions exceeding, it
is said, in amount that of the whole poor rate ; sufferings that
the philanthropy and piety of both city and county have
long expressed an anxious desire to remove? But they can
never be removed in any other way except by employment.
If the clouds showered down gold and silver in abundance
upon the people, the idleness engendered by such a supply

175

would more than counterbalance the good effected ; for as idle-
ness is the root of all evil, so is employment at the root of all
civil, moral, and religious order. If, then, alms-giving, when
substituted for employment, is an evil in itself, it becomes the
duty and privilege of every religious and benevolent mind
to co-operate in the furtherance of any reasonable plan,
having for its object the employment of a redundant population.
I desire to see Mousehold-heath dug up principally as a relief
for the present exigency, and as a preliminary step to the
future introduction of the linen trade to the city ; preparatory
to which, of course a large supply of flax would be required,
and from no source, I argue, could that supply be obtained at
so cheap a rate as through the labour of those who are now
maintained in idleness, and through the cultivation of land that
is now lying waste. I by no means despair of a flourishing
business being established; for a piece of linen has already
been woven in Norwich during the past few weeks, and I believe
another is now in hand; but the progress of private enterprize
must, of necessity, like the grass that grows before the starving
steed, be too slow to benefit the present generation ; whereas,
an immediate and simultaneous adoption of my plan would,
in the course of a few months, produce the desired effect. For
if the people were nowset to dig, manure, and prepare the soil,
the seed might be sown in March or April—the crop be fit
to carry off the land in June or July, which could then be
sown with turnips, and the flax be ready in August for the
manufacturer.

Thus would the ground-work be laid, I repeat, for the estab-
lishment of a new, lucrative, and permanent branch of business,
conducive to the best interests of home commerce on the one
hand, and of foreign trade on the other ; permanent, because as
linen ever has been one of the most useful and favourite articles
for domestic purposes, so it will remain till the end of time.
The citizens of Norwich therefore have no cause to fear a re-
- eurrence of those melancholy consequences which have often

resulted from failures in the manufacture of faney goods, and
which are too truly depicted in the wretched state of those who
have fallen victims to the change of fashion. Neither need the
farmers of Norfolk apprehend the want of a ready market for

176

their flax, because the supply, although imported to the
amount of nearly six millions a year, is scarcely equal to the
demand. In truth, the flax-spinners of England require a
more abundant supply, from our own resources, and at a
cheaper rate, in order that the price of linen may approxi-
mate to that of calico. This, I am persuaded, can be ob-
tained, and would be the means of finding employment not
only for the redundant rural, but also for the manufacturing,
population. The limits of a letter will not admit of lengthened
arguments to prove the soundness of my theory. But it must
be evident to every inquirer -- Ist, that such an immense quan-
tity of flax as we now import is subjected to many heavy
charges, and that many thousands of foreign hands were em-
ployed to prepare it for exportation. 2dly, That if we grew an
equal quantity in this country, it would require just as many
thousands of our own hands to reduce it to a similar state.
‘These would have to be mainly drawn from manufacturing
towns, because the rural labourers would be wanted to pre-
pare the seed, form it into compound to fatten cattle, and per-
form the labours consequent upon the new system of grazing.
An apprehension has been expressed, that my object in intro-
ducing the cultivation of flax was to supersede that of corn—to
raise the price of provisions and lessen the means of subsist-
ence; hence the loudly expressed alarm, “We cannot eat
flax.” It certainly might appear to the superficial reasoner
that the appropriation of land to the growth of flax would ne-
cessarily diminish the supply of wheat. But a careful inves-
tigation of the subject will soon disperse this fear. It will be
discovered, that the best flax is grown upon wheat stubble—
that upon strong soils, in particular, flax is an excellent crop
to precede wheat—that as flax will flourish on newly broken-up
soils it will evidently be the means of bringing into regular
cultivation large tracts of barren land—that it will require
less than two acres to every hundred now in cultivation, to
supply the present demand for flax, independent of foreign aid,
from which infinitely more tons of linseed would be obtained to
fatten cattle than were ever imported of oil-cake in one year—
that, throughout my pamphlets, previous letters, and present
series, published during the past four years, I advocate con-

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177

stant work at adequate wages, and not only cheap bread, but
also cheap meat for the people; showing, from the’ result
of successful experiments, that, through the cultivation of
flax, the fattening of cattle with native produce, box-feeding
and summer grazing, three bullocks and three sheep may be
fattened where only one of each was kept before; and that it did
not require a very profound calculation to discover, that a triple
quantity of manure thus obtained would produce a corre-
sponding increase in the productions of the earth, the price of
which is immaterial to the farmer, provided he is remunerated,
as is oftener the case with a plentiful crop and a low price, than
with a scanty one and a high price. I rejoice that measures
are being adopted for a vigorous extension of the above system
through every part of the kingdom. Already much progress
has been made, and I look forward with renewed confidence to
no very distant date, when the manufacturer shall not have cause
to complain that the high price of the common necessaries of life
prevents his successful competition with foreign markets.

I cannot avoid expressing my surprise, that those who profess
somuch sympathy for, and who depict so truly the horrors conse-
quent on, non-employment, should attempt to thwart measures
that would at once obtain the desired relief; should offer their
vague and empty theories in opposition to solid and permanent
benefits ;—rejecting the good within their immediate reach in
order to grapple with phantoms which never fail to elude their
grasp—holding out to starving mortals the blessed prospect,
that with “six shillings a week” a man is to maintain himself
and family, and fare sumptuously upon provisions drawn from
foreign resources, to the encouragement of foreign farmers, and
to the employment of foreign labourers. To such monstrous
propositions mine are diametrically opposed. They have been
often recorded, and centre in the desire to advance the rate of
wages, maintain the value of British property, and preserve
that proud position in the scale of nations which we have so
long enjoyed, recognising to the fullest extent that portion of
British property which the poor man alone possesses—viz. his
labour. In support of these principles a National Association
has been formed; to co-operate in the designs of which the

above lines are offered as an invitation.
N

178

Unbiassed by all party considerations, I freely offer my ser-
vices to the city, and shall be happy to confer with any influ-
ential parties in promoting so desirable an object as that of
reclaiming Mousehold-heath, and of rendering it subservient
to the present necessities, and future prosperity of Norwich ;
and I doubt not but the patriotism, philanthropy, and piety
of the city will respond to the call; and “then shall the
earth yield her increase; and God, even our own God, shall.

bless us.”
JoHn WARNES.

Nov. 22nd, 1843.

No. VIII.

Sir,

In submitting the eighth number of my series to the
public, 1 am aware that I shall be subjected, as on former
occasions, to the charge of exaggeration; but I cannot, on that
account, relinquish the task I have undertaken, seeing that
daily experience substantiates all my former statements, and
warrants me in the use of expressions still more glowing than
any I have yet employed.

Let the sceptic then stand by, and behold his more eillighh
ened and less prejudiced neighbour advancing his own interests,
and promoting public iedods by the adoption of those yams
which are attended by such unvarying success.

It-is with much gratification that I add to the increasing
list of converts to die above system, the name of W. H. Wind-
ham, Esq., of Felbrigg Hall, in this county, who, after the
successful use of Compound, and the growth of Flax during the
past year, has offered to facilitate the erection of boxes, in
order that his numerous tenantry may adopt the new system
of winter and summer grazing upon their respective farms.

Thus has Mr. Windham set a noble example, which, if fol-
lowed, will assuredly secure to the labourer employment, to
the tenant a remunerative price for his produce, and to the
landlord the value of his property.

There is no gentleman in the county to whom the inquirer

179

ean look with greater confidence than to Mr. Windham, whose
natural acuteness, partiality to agricultural pursuits, and con-
_ stant residence upon his estate, eminently qualify him to lead
the way ina movement of so much importance to the nation.

As Mr. Windham is an example to landed proprietors, so

is his steward to all with whom similar trusts are reposed.
His inquiries and conclusions on my premises last week evinced
a thorough regardlessness to trouble, so long as there was
a prospect of advancing his employer's interest ; and I am not
without a hope, that the mention of this circumstance may
rouse other farm-stewards to a sense of their duty.
_ The time has arrived, when the farmer's profit neither can
nor ought to depend on a high price for wheat. It cannot,
because of the rapidly increasing population, the major part of
which, being born to poverty, must necessarily be maintained
on cheap bread.—It ought not, because it is the duty as well
as the interest of the farmer, to meet their wants by increased
production ; his duty, because the soil is a talent committed
to his charge for the benefit of others—his interest, because
the more he can make the earth produce the greater will be
his gain.

The legislature aimed at obtaining cheap provisions through
the corn bill and the tariff, not being aware, I suppose, of the
immeasurable resources of this country, or why offer a stimulus
to foreign, rather than to British, agriculture ?

_ The Anti-Corn-Law League point to the half cultivated
fields, and tell the starving population that the landlord
- and tenant are cumberers, not tillers of the ground. However
just or unjust this reproach, I strenuously maintain, that asuffi-
cient supply of the common necessaries of life for the popu-
lation of the kingdom can be obtained from our own resources,
provided the system of grazing double or triple the number of
stock were carried into effect ; because it is but reasonable to
infer that double or triple the quantity of manure would ne-
cessarily increase production. Besides, the vast additional
supply of meat would lessen the demand for wheat—equalise
the price of each—enable the poor to purchase one as well as
the other, and obviate the necessity of foreign aid. To whatever
quarter we turn, the price of meat in particular is found too
N2

180

high for the consumer. It also too low for the farmer. ‘The
reasons may be traced to his not rearing more stock—to the
waste of grass in the summer—of straw in the winter, and to
the purchase of foreign oil-cake and artificial manures. These
things I have repeatedly pointed out, and am convinced that,
by a methodical and economical use of native resources, every
farmer could afford to sell his fat cattle at one-fourth less than
the present price, and realise what is now seldom the case, a
clear profit.

Of all subjects connected with agriculture, that of rearing
and fattening cattle is the first in importance; for, the ma-
nure so obtained is the only means of keeping a farm in
high condition, being suitable to all soils, durable in effect,
and therefore cheaper than any other.—In order to obtain so
large an accession of cattle as I contemplate, more must be
more bred—fewer killed when young, and none allowed to live
till they are four or five years old. The fattening so many calves
during the summer months is much to be deprecated, because
their original value for rearing is sunk in the low price of veal,
while their lives are required to keep down the price of lean
stock. If, then, it is an evil to kill them so young, it isequally
so to keep them after they have arrived at maturity, especially
when fattened to a degree that renders the greater part unfit
for the table. The Christmas cattle-shows exemplify the jus-
tice of this remark, being masses of fat manufactured for the
tallow-chandler, rather than of wholesome meat for the commu-
nity. In this way, many thousands of pounds are sunk and
much food destroyed every year. I calculate that many
of the animals lately exhibited at the Bazaar in London,
did not realise the cost of grazing by 30/., 40/., or 507. each.
Could the system of rearing summer calves be. generally
adopted, farmers would soon be in possession of cheap herds of
cattle. To any objections.that might be made on account of
milk being wanted for cheese, and the inability of the calf to
withstand the approaching winter, I refer to the linseed-com-
pounds as excellent and economical substitutes for milk, and to
the boxes as an effectual protection against the inclemency of
the weather. From observation and a little experience, I am
led to conclude, that-calves are brought up in summer at much

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181

less expense, trouble, and risk, than those in winter, and there-
fore make a more profitable return. I could offer several
calculations to prove the correctness of this theory, did time
and space permit. The object of this letter has reference more

_ to fattening than to rearing cattle, and to proving that double,

or even triple the present number may be profitably returned,
through the medium of linseed-compound, box-feeding, and
summer-grazing. The fear of trouble ought not to stand in
the way, nor need the farmer be under any apprehension on
the score of outlay, as respects the cost for boxes, crushing-
machine, cooking apparatus, and the increased number of
cattle he would be compelled to keep; because the expense for
boxes, in most cases, if erected according to the description in
No. 3, would not amount to more than 20 or 30 shillings each ;
for iron coppers and crushers, about eight pounds upon a farm
of two or three hundred acres; and for bullocks, I have shewn,
and now repeat, the lowest priced pay the best.

_ For instance, I sold in November last, three small bullocks,
bred in the early part of the summer of 1842, one of which
was purchased at 4/., on the 11th of March last; another at
31. 3s., on the 13th of April last; the third was bred on the
farm, and valued at 4/. 10s., on the 11th of March last. Two
of them were Durham heifers, the other Norfolk bred; their
ages 18 months each when killed. The first weighed 46 st.
7 \bs.; the second, 41 st. 2 lbs.; the third, 35 st. of 14 lbs. to
the stone, making 122 st.-9 lbs., which at 6d. per lb., the cur-
rent price of beef in this neighbourhood, amounts to 42/. 18s.
6d.; and, had I sold them by weight, would have afforded a
balance of 31/. 5s. 6d., and a profit unexampled in the agricul-
tural history of this country; unexampled on account of the
shortness of time, the size of the animals, the smallness of the
outlay, and the food being entirely the produce of the farm.
Should it be asked, what was their condition when purchased ?
I refer to the cost price, which the practical inquirer will per-
ceive admitted only of what the chemical farmer would term
*a very minute development of flesh.”

_ These bullocks, with about twenty others, were, last year,
fattened on my farm consisting of 76 acres only. They.were all

182 .

kept in boxes during the summer as well as in the winter
months—were treated in every respect alike, and made similar
returns ; some were disposed of within four, others eight months,
averaging about six months each, and speaking volumes in
favour of the cultivation of linseed, the fattening cattle —
native produce, box-feeding, and summer grazing.

I have now twelve bullocks under similar treatment, but
instead of grain or pulse I substitute hay or straw, with a few
turnip tops, and barley “colder,” all cut into fine chaff, with
an extra proportion of linseed. Upon this plan a compound
is formed: more economical and rapid in its effect than any I
have hitherto used. The reason is obvious. Linseed will
raise flesh and fatten faster than anything else; therefore,
the more a bullock can take without being disordered, the
greater will be the effect produced. Boiled barley alone is
slow in effect and will not repay; but when linseed meal is
incorporated with it, the progress of the animal is greatly
accelerated. Corn, therefore, acts chiefly as a vehicle to convey
the linseed to the stomach, an office which any thing of an
absorbing nature, suited to ruminating animals, will perform
as well with an extra quantity of linseed meal.

According to the recipes in the ‘ Suggestions,’ compounds
are made of about one part of linseed meal to two or three
parts of corn, or pulse, or at the rate of eighteen pence for the
former, and two shillings and three pence for the latter. I
now take away the corn entirely, and add instead nine penny
worth more of linseed meal. Thus eighteen pence is left for
the hay, &c., which is double their value. Hence nine pence
is saved by this compound. But when its bulk and satisfying
nature are taken into account, it will be found that a small
quantity only of turnips is required ; which confirms my oft-
repeated opinion, that, the expensive and precarious turnip-
crop ought no longer to be considered the sheet-anchor of
Norfolk farming—an opinion the correctness of which is es+
tablished upon the following fact, viz.: this year, according to
my usual rotation, I should have grown about 12 acres of
turnips; instead of which I sowed six with linseed, and one
acre with potatoes, leaving five with turnips. Of the two

~ 183

latter more than half remained unconsumed. Observe, the
potatoes were used chiefly for pigs, a few only were given
to the bullocks in the form of compound.

And now a question naturally arises as to the correctness of
Dr. Playfair’s theory, that “Oil-cake produces only fat, being
destitute of nitrogen ; and that by adding corn, which possesses
nitrogen, to linseed oil-cake, meat will be developed as well as
fat.” To this opinion I never could accede, because I have
seen cattle fed in stalls exclusively with oil-cake and water,
which increased both in flesh and fat. In April last, my own
farm-horses were fed with wheat straw cut into fine chaff, and
immersed in boiling linseed meal and water till all was ab-
sorbed. With this they worked ten hours a day, and looked

better than when on hay and corn. I also kept some poor

bullocks upon the same food, which increased much in con-
dition. These instances, added to my present experiments,
led me to the conclusion, that linseed possesses both flesh and
fat making properties in an eminent degree.

_ But perhaps Dr. Playfair will exclaim, “’Tis the combina-
tion of material that developes meat as well as fat.” True.
But straw incorporated with linseed or cake, is like the boy who
carried his father’s spade, and observed on their return home,
«“ What a good day’s work we have done;” or the bellows-
blower, who congratulated himself and the organ-player upon
the plaudits obtained by their joint performance.

The correctness of these illustrations may easily be proved
by giving a bullock, that would be termed “ fleshy,” nothing
but straw to eat, and he will rapidly decrease in condition.

_At the same time, let another, but little better than a skeleton,

be fed with straw well incorporated with boiling linseed meal
upon the above plan, and, before many weeks the flesh-making

properties of the seed will have performed their office. In

making these brief observations, I wish it not to be supposed
that I undervalue chemical research ; on the contrary, I still

hope that some permanent good will be effected thereby ;

though I fear the time is too far distant for the present
xace of practical farmers to reap the benefit. ‘Theories, how-
ever ingenious, must yield to the results of experiment ; which

184

in agricultural matters, I, in common with many others, have
too often proved to be fallacious.

My recommendations being in their nature practical,
simple, and applicable to every grade of farmer, are constantly
adopted. The most gratifying accounts are daily forwarded
to Trimingham from various parts of the kingdom. While
writing this letter, I received the following communications,
which, I am sure, will be acceptable to all who take an interest
in the subject :—

“ Tunbridge, Kent, Dec. 22nd., 1843.

“ Lord Torrington’s compliments to Mr. Warnes, and would
feel obliged by his informing him whether a pamphlet called
‘Suggestions on Fattening Cattle with Native instead of
Foreign Produce’ is to be purchased in London. Lord Tor-
rington having found great benefit from feeding cattle in the
manner Mr. John Warnes has advised, is anxious to obtain
some of the pamphlets to give to his friends.”

From the Maidstone Journal.

«It will be recollected that, at the Cattle Show dinner,
Viscount Torrington stated, that his prize beast was probably
the cheapest animal ever fatted, adding, it was fed on the
compound recommended by Mr. Warnes, which his lordship
was induced to try through the instrumentality of Mr. Cull, of
East Tarleigh. We trust this mention of the subject will
serve to direct attention to this most useful and economical
preparation.”

The publication of Lord Torrington’s experience may per-
haps be considered unnecessary in Norfolk, where the use of
compound is now so generally adopted; but it ought to be re-
membered, that this letter will be read by many landowners,
who may be induced by his lordship’s example to prefer the
produce of their own estates to that of foreigners, and by many
occupiers, who think there is no virtue in any thing but foreign
oil-cake. In fact, nothing is required but the united deter-
mination of these two great interests to provide for the people

a

"
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;

185

an adequate supply of all the common necessaries of life. In
addition to those advantages which I have pointed out, it will
be seen, that the fattening of double or triple our present
number of cattle must be attended with a corresponding in-
crease of hides and skins, wool and tallow, bone dust, &c., &ce.
Included would be our flax and linseed crops, amounting
altogether to many millions a year, and involving so great a
demand for labour as must necessarily insure prosperity to the
agricultural and commercial interests of this country.

I remain, Sir, your obedient servant,

JoHun WARNEs.
Jan. \st, 1844.

No. IX.
Sir,
Ar the commencement of this series, I pledged myself

to answer any objections to the above topics, whether of a
public or private nature, in order that truth might be
elucidated, my letters republished, and a work be produced,
which the landlord, the tenant, and labourer, would see it
their best interest to support.

In consequence, I have been, and still am, engaged in cor-
respondence with many influential and intelligent parties in
various parts of the kingdom; and I rejoice to say that the

cause which I advocate daily gains ground. ’Tis true, that

it has been subjected to some opposition; but, in every
instance where reason and generosity have been brought into
exercise, prejudice has been removed.

In my former numbers, I endeavoured to point out the
advantages of fattening cattle upon native produce, box-
feeding, and summer-grazing. But in the present, I desire to
draw particular attention to the importance of the flax crop,
with reference, principally, to the value of the fibre as a
source of employment to the labourer, and of profit to the

» 186

grower. I say principally, because in no instance did I ever
advocate the cultivation of flax for the sake of the fibre exelu-
sively, being persuaded that, by judicious management, a
profitable crop of seed might be obtained also, and the objec-
tions to its culture removed.

Hitherto I have only been able clearly to show that the
cultivation of flax, primarily for the seed, would fully repay.
Peculiar circumstances have prevented me from satisfying
public curiosity relative to the intrinsic value of the stalks;
but the following accounts will assist me, in some measure, to
“solve this problem,” and be acceptable, till full proof can be
made of my own extensive crops, as well as of those of my neigh-
bours, correspondents, and others, in this and distant counties,
amounting to several hundred acres, of which many specimens
are in my own possession, and will be exhibited shortly at
Norwich and other places.

I subjoin a letter of the Hon. W. R. Rous, published § in the
‘Norwich Mercury’ on the 30th December, as a document
offered to me in common with the rest of the community, for
the purpose of being turned to the best account. All who
peruse it will, of course, be at liberty to form their own
opinion, and to act accordingly. But the responsible position
in which my publications have placed me, renders it necessary
that I should point out the mistakes which Mr. Rous has made,
and the erroneous conclusions to which he has arrived, lest it
should be thought that I have been employing “figures of
rhetoric”
public ;” and, what is of far greater consequence, lest this
gréat cause be retarded, in which the interests of the farmer,
the security of the landowner, the prosperity of the manu-
facturer, and the welfare of the poor are involved.

That this great undertaking should be opposed by the Hon.
Gentleman just at the time when the fruits of my labours
become apparent, is a mystery that shall, at some future
opportunity, be unravelled. My present explanation will
counteract, I trust, the baneful tendency of his letter; a letter
that has been hailed by many Anti-Corn-Law papers, and joy-
fully disseminated by them throughout the kingdom. And

”

and indulging in “idle visions” to “deceive the »

4

187

why? Because they hope it will contribute to retard a cause
_ which, if successful, must inevitably defeat the mad schemes of —
that revolutionary party. ;

« To the Editor of the Norwich Mercury.

“Dean Srirx,—In matters of business practical men prefer
res of arithmetic to figures of rhetoric—plain facts to idle
sio J it have, therefore, taken up my pen for the purpose of
_undeceiving the public, by a simple statement of the probable
3 cost of growing and preparing an acre of flax ready for
spinning into yarn ; also to state the proved value of an acre

of very superior flax grown by myself and worked at North

Walsham. The soil was a first-rate flax soil, rich light loam—

in good heart, sowed 2nd April.

: a Lasnds
Rent, tithe, and rates 2 0 0
Two winter ploughings 012 0

Spring harrowing down, plaiting, jing: iii ‘ikibag! 011 0
One thousand gallons of liquid manure . ‘ : D435. .O
| Three bushels of seed ‘ . ‘ ; ; 1 0 0
Weeding and pulling crop , : ‘ : 20
Steeping, drying, re-tying,&c. . . ‘ 1 -O-.-Q
Scutching 54 stone of flax, at 3s. per stone . 8 2 0

Id. 2 9

Value of crop: sled

54 sto stone oe flax, at 9s. per stone . : 4 0 PE 26.
cdl Balance : : ; “ 29 46

An ample profit; but 54 stone of flax is vastly beyond an
average crop, and 9s. a stone can only be obtained for a supe-
rior fibre; besides, land in general would require an outlay of
3/. in manure per acre. ‘To be concise, I am perfectly sure,
that unless the manufacturers can afford to give 8s. a stone for
the flax after being scutched, the farmer cannot afford to grow
it. When this last fact is ascertained, as it will be, before the
general meeting of the Flax poetry held in February, the

188

problem will be solved, whether. the culture of flax can be
sufficiently followed up to be an extensive source of employ-
ment for our labourers.

“Tam, dear Sir, your obedient servant,

“W. Rous.

“ P.S.—Where the flax has been grown for seed, generally
speaking, the fibre has not paid for the labour and cost.
Indeed, I have no proof of its having been profitable in a
single instance; but there is some now working which promises
well.”

If any one has reason to rejoice at this account, I have:
because, notwithstanding its glaring defects, it tends to es-
tablish, not only the correctness of all my statements, but also
that of my arithmetical calculations. I refer to the second
number of my series dated August 2nd, headed “ Value of the
Flax Crop to the grower ;” wherein I showed from English,
Irish, and Belgian reports, that the value per acre of good
flax would be 24/. including all expenses, which is six shillings
less than the amount of Mr. Rous’s crop. I also estimated our
best growing crops at'40 or 50 stone per acre; and the flax at
8s. to 12s., or 15s. ‘per stone, exclusive of the seed. The
accuracy of this estimate I rested on information derived from
personal inquiries in Ireland, from similar opportunities in
England, from reading authentic works, and from an extensive
correspondence. In pamphlets and public letters I laboured
to communicate my experience in easy and comprehensible
terms, in order that my most unlearned readers might profit.
I say laboured, because the scholar will acknowledge that the
difficulty of writing a few sentences of plain common sense is
greater than that of many pages of rhetorical flourish.

I have no wish to lessen Mr. Rous’s estimation of the prac-
tical men to whom he alludes. But, of his letter, I must
observe, that it will not raise their reputation either as men of
business, of figures, of facts, or of rhetoric ;—of business,
because they never attended either to the steeping, grassing,
or scutching of the flax in question ;— of figures, because their
account is extremely defective in many items which the prac-

4
G
i

189

tical man would have added to the list of expenses (certainly
he would not have put down one pound for seed when the real
quantity was a barrel containing three bushels and a half, and
that cost 45s.; nor would he have allowed 3s. per stone for
scutching, when experienced hands could readily perform the
work at 2s. 3d., or even at less per stone) ;—of facts, because no
mention is made of five stones of tow, of several bushels of
seed and chaff threshed from the stalks, nor of the after-crop of
turnips, which, being grown in the same year, ought to have
been added to the account, as the rent, rates, and tithes are
now all charged to the flax-crop;—of rhetoric, because Mr.
Rous’s first-rate flax-soil has not produced so profitable a crop
as many soils of a quality far inferior, yet better adapted to
the growth of first-rate flax. Nor is 9s. per stone by any
means “the highest price that can be obtained for superior
fibre.” Mr. Demann, the Belgian, who prepared Mr. Rous’s
fiax, grew some himself at North Walsham, by way of experi-
ment, which he estimates at twenty shillings per stone. In
truth, flax varies from even below five to twenty-five shillings
per stone. Again, that “land in general would require an
outlay of three pounds per acre in manure”’ is contrary to the
experience of every grower. Were so much applied, it would
in most cases greatly injure, if not entirely destroy the crop.
That “land in general’ should require four times more
manure than Mr. Rous’s, is an assumption that agriculturists

“in general”’ will regard as a flash of rhetoric, rather than as
a matter of fact. Experience has shown, that to grow flax to

perfection land should be in so fine a state as to require no
manure at all. I could annex much information on this point

from authentic documents, wherein it would appear that most

of our flax was grown last year without the direct application
of manure.—I select one :—

“ Ormesby, 31st October, 1843.
« Dear Sir,
“ My flax was drilled on the 24th of March, on a

wheat stubble without manure. My intention was to grow it

for the seed, till you advised me to get the fibre also, for which

190

I expect to obtain 127. or 152 per acre. I have sent a sample
of the seed taken from the stalks when pulled, and afterwards
dried on a sail-cloth in the sun. The produce 16 bushels per
acre, which will pay the expense of pulling, steeping, &e. ;
and when given to cattle crushed, or as compound, will return
a valuable manure to the land. - I sincerely hope your endea-
vours to promote the cultivation of flax in this country may be
crowned with success. It is only by giving employment that
we can expect to raise the labouring classes above the depress-
ing and contaminating circumstances with which they have to
-contend.
I remain, dear Sir, yours very truly,

«“RicHARD GLASSPOOLE.”’
“ To John Warnes, Jun., Esq.”

My neighbour, Mr. Brown, grew several acres of flax, and
has ascertained the weight of an acre to be 53 stone 6 Ibs. ; this
was grown principally for the sake of the fibre, and yet he
obtained 16 bushels of seed. Two acres were sown by the side
of this flax for seed primarily, of which he had 43 bushels, and
a fibre as fine as the other. Mr. Harlee Playford, of North-
repps, made the same experiments with like results. I could
also refer to Mr. Smith, of Gunton; Mr. Cubitt, of Witton;
and numbers of other growers, whose crops, besides my own 12
acres, are very abundant. As a quietus for the present, I will
just mention that Mr. Barrett, of Barney, tenant to Lord
Hastings, threshed out an acre of flax that produced six coombs
- of seed, and so excellent a crop_of strong flax that he sold one-
half of it for 11/. to a rope and twine spinner at Holt, who is
now engaged in making the finer parts of it into yarn and
twine, the coarser into rope and line, and the refuse into door
mats, &c.

With regard to Mr. Rous’s. declaration, that “ unless the
manufacturers can afford to give 8s. per stone for the flax after
being scutched, the farmer cannot afford to grow it;” the fol-
lowing calculation upon an average of 35 stone an acre only,
with the average rental of 30s. per acre, rates, tithes, &e.
included, will prove that the hon. gentleman is still in his

NE egbsh ae ‘a

191

gitiaate, and show Mow necessary are the figures of a practices
mind to rectify his errors. :

Baia: a Save. cde
By 35 stone of flax, at Rent, &c. . . 6 10 0
8s. per stone . . 14 0 O} Tillage’ . : ae.
44 coombs of seed for Manure, if any . Rogue

_ crushing P . 615 O|} Three bushels of seed
Chaff and refuse flax, (warranted) . . 110 0

— oe. : . 015 0} Pulling, steeping, and
— oO: 6 after processes be

a Bi Seutching 35 stone of
flax at 2s. per stone. 3 10 0

s y a Lira 44 coombs

of seed, and re-tying

— sheaves with double
21 17. 6 bands. P gi. bad
Deduct . . 12 0 0} Incidental expenses .011 6
Balance : SEO 172 6 £12 0 0

_ “An ample profit.” Ample, because, 21/. 17s. 6d. per acre
is much more than the acreable value of corn crops; ample,
because 9/. 17s. 6d. an acre net profit, is 97. 10s. more than
has been realized upon average farms in Norfolk during
the last seven years, if not upon the best ; (for the accuracy of
this calculation I refer the hon. gentleman to his neighbour
Mr. Gower, who rents 500 acres of fine and well-cultivated
land) ; ample profit, because the grower ought to be content
with the same return for flax, that he obtains for. other crops ;
ample, because of the indirect advantages, which my pen would
fail me to enumerate. —

Mr. Rous next alludes to a problem that is to be solved
3 before the meeting of the Flax Society in February. In the .
_ meantime other problems are being worked out, which, on com-
parison, at that eventful period, will, I hope, be found to accord;
for “they also promise well.”

With respect to the postscript, Mr. Rous ought to have been
informed why the fibre from the flax grown for seed “generally
_ speaking” had not paid for the “labour and cost ;” when it
would have appeared that owing to thorough ignorance of the
business on the one hand, and neglect on the other, the flax
Seeered to was so much spoiled as not to repay the expenses.

192

In some instances | Ib. only, out of 13 of prepared flax-stalks,
was obtained, which is three times more waste than is now made
in scutching properly-prepared flax at Trimingham. Besides,
the flax in question was grown by amateurs in 1842. As
amateurs, too, they sent it to North Walsham, where by
novices it was reduced to tow; and then, contrary to the prin-
ciples upon which the Norfolk Flax Society was formed, they
were compelled, alas! to pay even for the waste of their own
property. No wonder, then, that Mr. Rous should exclaim,
“Indeed I have no proof of its having been profitable in a
single instance.” Cases of profit, however, are recorded. I
select two; one by the hon. gentleman himself, in his letter of
the 6th of December, addressed “to the Noblemen, Clergy,
Gentry, Yeomanry, and others interested in the prosperity of
the county of Norfolk ;’ and re-published in my pamphlet
entitled ‘Reasons for the Cultivation of Flax, or a voice
for the Poor;’ where he observes, “I may as well state,
that Mr. Atkinson of Bacton threshed out at the rate of six
coombs two bushels of seed per acre, and that he has heen
offered forty shillings per ewt. for the straw when slightly pre-
pared.”

The other, by Mr. Gower, in a letter to an agriculturist in
the Western part of Norfolk, of which the following is a ver-
batim extract.

“JT have no doubt of flax being a paying crop. I grew
four acres, part for seed, and part for the fibre. I had five
coombs of seed per acre off the whole, and was bid 35/. for the
fibre after I threshed the seed; it cost about 5s. per coomb to
thresh, and 1/. per acre for pulling it up. I am certain it will
- answer for the seed alone, as five coombs of seed will raise more
beef, and more manure in quality, than any acre of turnips we
ever grew.”

Herein is a marvellous account of flax and seed grown within
a few fields of Mr. Rous’s crop, which, after allowing for seed
rent, tillage, &c., the extravagant charge of 25s. for pulling
and threshing, and only 30s. per coomb for the linseed obtained,
leaves a clear profit of 10/. 5s. per acre, exceeding that gentle-
man’s “ample profit” by Il. ls. per acre; which, observe, is
exclusive of the factor’s profit. A marvellous account! Mr.

193

¢ : belongs to the Committce of the Norfolk Flax en
) if which Mr. Rous is the president.

_I here lay down my pen with honour, for volumes could not

q afford stronger evidence to prove that where flax is grown for

_ seed, the fibre will make a profitable return for “labour and

ost.” Nor could volumes more clearly acquit me of having

in “idle visions” to ‘deceive the public.”

I remain, Sir, your obedient servant,

) SAE Joun Warnes, jun.
_ Trimingham, January 14th, 1844.

No. X.
Sir,

_ Ir is with no common feelings of regret that I find my-
self compelled to devote a portion of the present number to the
refutation of Mr. Gower’s letter, that appeared in your paper of
January 27; a letter that I should have considered totally
unworthy of notice in times less alarming than the present.
_ _ But, knowing how prompt the Anti-Corn Law League is to lay
hold of, and to disseminate, anything that may be turned to the
_ destruction of the farmer, I am bound to pronounce it as a most
inconsistent and fallacious document.
4 In vain would be the remonstrances of the tenant, the pro-
_ testations of the landlord, and the exertions of protective
associations to stem the torrent of free trade, if Mr. Gower’s
monster-caleulations are suffered to remain unexplained.
Whether the net profit upon an acre of prepared flax, accord-
ing to the Hon. Mr. Rous’s account, amounts to 9/. 4s. or to
5l. 11s. per acre for unprepared flax, according to Mr. Gower’s
account; or whether the seed is worth 25s., 30s., or 40s. per
coomb, are questions of minor importance to the public, seeing
that the crop ensures, at all events, an abundance of employment
to the labourer, and a profitable return to the grower. Thus
mucheven Mr. Gower himself has established without the aid of
a “College education.” Indeed, he has proved, beyond dispu-
)

194

tation, all, or more than, I ever promised. For, on referring
to my ‘ Suggestions,’ I find the following passage :—

«The value of linseed per acre, exclusive of the flax, would
probably not amount to more than that of barley; flax in-
cluded, it would be worth as much as wheat.”

I am aware that my publications have rendered me highly
responsible to my country. It is therefore with much satis-
faction that I can refer to them for support against the attacks
of prejudice or malignity. In all essential points my state-
ments have been borne out by corroborative evidence, by the
results of successful experiment, and by assurances on every
hand, first, that compound is now so generally used to fatten
cattle as materially to lessen the demand for, and consequently
to reduce the price of, oil-cake :—Secondly, that the crops of
linseed are superior both as respects quality and quantity to
those of any part of the world:—Thirdly, that in every in-
stance where the value of the fibre, grown in 1843, has been
ascertained, a satisfactory profit has been realised—satisfac-
tory, because it is but reasonable to expect that in future
years the cost of management and preparation will be reduced
to that of Somersetshire, where the hand-scutching process is
performed at 1s. 6d. per dozen, or three-halfpence per pound.
Should Mr. Gower be disposed to contradict this statement,
I refer him to Mr. T. B. Edmonds, jun., of South Petherton,
Somersetshire. _A gentleman who wrote to Mr. Rous in the
first instance, has since corresponded with me, and will, when —
required, send men into Norfolk upon the above terms, to
dress our flax for market. I exhibited, at the meeting in St.
Andrew’s Hall, on the 26th of January, a bundle of flax con-
sisting of twelve pounds, tied up in the peculiar fashion of
Somersetshire, for which the men are paid Is. 6d. for scutch-
ing. It is said to be well prepared, and may be seen at the
Library, St. Andrew’s Hall, Norwich, on application to the
porter. .

An unanswered letter is now before me from Mr. Edmonds, ©
written at the request of a young man twenty-three years of
age, the son of an experienced flax-dresser, who is desirous of

195

3 cundertaking the management of Norfolk flax, “at 2s. per day
when not at task-work.” He is strongly recommended ; but
as I donot require his services myself, perhaps Mr. Gower
‘will see it his interest to engage the man, rather than persist
im paying 3s. per stone for scutching flax, which, if properly
prepared, can be readily done for 1s. 9d. or 2s.
The same work can be performed. by a scutching-mill at
‘10d. or Is. per stone; but even then, we must wait with
satience till our labourers have learned the art of using it,
before we, or they, can fully reap the benefit. Hence the ne-
cessity of an Association to defray the expense of teachers and

ia ! ret of pupils.

per ton.

Great is the absurdity of Mr. Gower’s endeavour to make
Hic public believe, that the future cost of scutching flax must
always be 3s. per stone. Equally so is his attempt to under-
‘value linseed in general, by estimating his own at only 25s.
be coomb.

- Presuming that Mr. Gower’s linseed, like most samples that
Thave seen of Norfolk growth, is of first-rate quality, and fit
for sowing, I assert, that such seed has long been worth at
market 36s. per coomb, and is still rising in price. I think,
therefore, that I did not greatly err in valuing it at 30s. for
cattle food. Besides, I find that five measures of home grown
linseed are equal to six of foreign. At that rate it is used
upon my own premises with great success. The best foreign
crushing linseed at Lynn is now worth 27s. per coomb, but I
take the medium price at 25s. and allow one-sixth for its in-
feriority as to quality and weight, which makes our own amount
to 30s. for crushing purposes; and I am confident that it is
cheaper at that rate than foreign linseed, or oil-cake at 61.

Last year, Mr. Gower paid 45s. per barrel for three bushels
and a half of foreign sowing linseed. Messrs. Mackie and Co.,
of Norwich, sold English at 10s. 6d. per bushel, and Norfolk
growers sold theirs at the same price, amongst whom I believe
was Mr. Gower himself.

_ Mr. Demann, the Belgian, has again been an importer.

Many sacks of Norfolk seed are already bespoken, and will

shortly pass through Mr. Gower’s farm on the way to Yar-
02

196

mouth, from thence by sea to different parts ofthe kingdom. I
have every reason to think that some thousand acres of flax-seed
will be sown this year, a circumstance at which I devoutly re-
joice, not because of a paltry triumph over an unprincipled oppo-
sition, but because of the benefits which the British farmer and
the British labourer will derive through the circulation of those
immense sums now sent to foreign countries for flax, linseed,
oil, and cake.

From reports laid before the Board of Agriculture many
years since, and other documents on the cultivation of flax, in-
trusted to me by Lord Hastings, I perceive that half a guinea
per bushel was a common price for sowing seed, and not unfre-
quently 14s. Extracts from those writings in the form of a
pamphlet will shortly be published, at his Lordship’s desire, for
general circulation, when some remarkable facts, confirmatory
of my oft-repeated statements relative to the value, utility, and
advantages of the flax crop will appear.

Mr. Gower observes, “It is but just to state that the
crop of 1843 was cultivated under Mr. Warnes’s almost daily
direction.”

This I utterly deny.—Trimingham is distant about twelve
miles from Dilham—a place that I have scarcely seen half a
dozen times during the: past fifteen years. Mr. Gower adds,
“he sent the seed, the man, and drill;—it stood until Mr. W.
said it was ‘nice and brown; then it was spread on the land,
and afterwards turned with a long ‘stick, and ultimately, when
it had been exposed to the’sun and weather as long as he
directed, it was stacked ; but not till it had been so injured by
such treatment that it was worth little or nothing.” I cer-
tainly had the pleasure of sending a man, drill, and seed to
several persons in the neighbourhood of Dilham, who were
anxious to try the experiment. To all I afforded the best in-
formation in my power; nor am I aware that any of their crops
were injured through my interference; certainly not Mr.
Gower’s. But I can confidently aver, that after the seed had
been thrashed, the stalks were stacked, and so improperly
thatched, that the rain penetrated the sheaves im every direc-
tion and rotted many; they were then sent to North Walsham
to be prepared. I refer to Mr. Demann.

ee
+ eae Soe

;
;
;
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”

5: de ee

197

~ How astonishing that Mr. Gower should have been so ill
advised as to rest his attempted refutation of No.9 upon ma-
terials so unsound! I say attempted, because in no respect
has he grappled with the arguments I adduced, or disproved
a single assertion that I ventured to make. Nor is his “ want
of a college education” to be admitted as an excuse for the
perversion of my declaration that “9/. 17s. 6d. an acre net pro-
fit, is 97. 10s. more than has been realized upon average
farms in Norfolk during the last seven years.” Had the elu-
cidation of truth been the only object, his task would have

been comparatively easy, The intricacy, however, occasioned

by an attempt to overthrow the value of the flax-crop, brought
upon him the painful’ consciousness of a want of those logical
and rhetorical acquirements which college men are expected to
possess.

When a counsellor has the good fortune to plead the cause
of innocence, his task is both easy and agreeable. But when
guilt requires his aid, he is compelled to resort to well-arranged
premises, acute reasoning, and clever quibbles, to blind the

eyes of the jury, in which he is too often successful. Hence

Mr. Gower’s dilemma; for, wanting the above panoply, he
was constrained to cover the profits of his flax with an abun-
dance of straw. And, in order to swell the profits of his grain
beyond his flax crop, he resorted to the extraordinary expe-
dient of valuing at 3/. per acre the straw, that forms no part
of a farmer’s.direct return. Had Mr. Gower properly defined
the only account to which straw could be turned, and the net
profit, from each separate crop of wheat, barley, oats, turnips,
grass, and hay, and added them together, I affirm, that the
average profits would appear to be not only nine times but
nineteen times less than the profits of an acre of flax at
91. 17s. 6d.

I made no exclusive comparison between a “crop of flax and
a crop of corn,” as Mr. Gower insinuates, but clearly referred
to the acreable profit of a whole farm, which will be seen in the
following extract :—

“Ample profit, because 9/. 17s. 6d. an acre net profit is
9/. 10s. more than has been realized upon average farms in

198

Norfolk during the last seven years, if not upon the best;
ample profit, because the grower ought to be content with the
same return for flax that he obtains for other crops; ample,
because of the indirect advantages which my pen would fail me
to enumerate.”

I repeat my firm conviction, that ten shillings per acre net
profit is more than has been realised upon the average farms
in Norfolk during the past seven years. On the contrary, Mr.
Gower informs the public, that his profits are 8/. 2s. 3d. per
acre for oats, 7/. 9s. 3d. for wheat, and 3/. for straw. Or, in
other words, 15007. per year for corn, and 750I. for straw from
one moiety of his farm consisting of 500 acres; an account
which, however fabulous, will doubtless be promulgated with
avidity by the Anti-Corn-Law League asa confirmation of Mr.
Rous’s recent comparisons on the same subject. Indeed, I
should not be at all surprised to learn, that the following
placard was handed about the streets of all manufacturing
towns :—

“ Extraordinary profits of Norfolk farmers,—

15007. for Corn.
7501. for Straw.

ee

“Grand Total 2250 Pounds sterling, net profit from 250
acres of land at Dilham.

«The truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth.”

Let it not be supposed that I treat this subject with levity.
The above calculation was suggested to me by a practical far-
mer, who, with many intelligent agriculturists in this and other
counties, warrants me in declaring, that he has not added a
shilling to his capital by farming during the past seven years.
They all consider that Mr: Gower’s mistakes are fraught with
dangerous consequences; and that it will be in vain to oppose
the rage for free trade if Norfolk farmers exaggerate their
profits. Mr. Gower occupies 500 acres of first-rate land, to
the superior cultivation of which I can cheerfully testify. It
is hoped that he will favour the public with a clear debtor and

creditor report from his farm-accounts, in order that it

a

199

may be fully ascertained,—Ist, whether his profits on oats and
wheat are fifteen pounds, or fifteen pence per acre; 2dly, whe-
ther any material value can be attached to the straw beyond
its use as litter for cattle, and asa vehicle for conveying manure
to the fields; 3dly, whether any reasonable reduction of rent
would really enable him to live as well with wheat at 4s. as at
8s. per bushel. Upon this 4s. and 8s. question I shall not
at present animadvert. But as agriculture has long been
subjected to a species of high treason on the one hand, and a

secret conspiracy on the other, I warn Mr. Gower against being
inveigled into the opinion, that land rent-free would enable

the British farmer to subsist with wheat at 4s. per bushel.

Even under the present protective duties, I am convinced that

agriculture is doomed to a struggle more severe than it has
yet encountered, and that nothing short of increased production
will enable us to withstand the contest.

With these views I promulgated—in pamphlets, previous
letters, and the present series—plans that, wherever adopted,
have been found efficacious. How ungenerous, then, for Mr.
Gower to combine with others in thwarting the dissemination
of benefits which, through my labours, he has been long enjoy-
ing, and which cost him nothing to obtain!

Christianity enjoins the diffusion of those blessings that we
possess ourselves. How narrow, then, the policy that would
confine within the limits of a locality the advantages which a
nation must derive from the cultivation of the inestimable
flax-plant! “‘Inestimable, because the fibre is convertible to
the most useful, as well as. the most costly articles of wearing
apparel; inestimable, because it affords more employment
than any other production of the earth; inestimable, because
of the seed, which produces a valuable oil, a superior cake to
fatten bullocks, and forms the principal ingredient of the
incomparable cattle-com pound.”

The Hon. Mr. Rous has shown that a profit of 97. has been
obtained from an acre of flax, after a full allowance for rent,
tillage, &c., besides 10/. for labour in preparing the fibre for
market. Mr. Gower shows a profit of 5/. 11s. for seed and
unprepared flax; which flax is now, I understand, “being
worked out” at a corresponding rate of expense. I take ‘dies

200

two cases, on account of their publicity, to prove the immea-
surable advantages that must accrue from the employment of
the people, whether the profits, in future, be one or nine
pounds per acre. Immeasurable, because I am convinced that
had all the flax grown last year in this part of Norfolk been
prepared for scutching, it would have afforded employment,
during the winter months, for more able-bodied men than are
now confined in the overflowing workhouses of the North and
South Erpingham Unions.

_ And here I cannot forbear referring to the admirable address
of Robert Copeman, Esq., of Aylsham, that appeared in your
paper of last week, respecting the lamentable state of Buxton
workhouse, and the desirableness of finding employment for
the poor; an address which will be received with interest
from the known ability of that gentleman, and I trust will be
the means of stirring up the philanthropy of the neighbour-
hood to carry out his humane propositions.

It is, as Mr. Copeman observes, ‘‘ Unquestionably much
better to keep men employed, even if not in very productive
labour, than to support them in idleness.’ Hence the neces-
sity of cultivating, in every parish, small proportions of flax,
the various ramifications of which would provide employment
for the able-bodied labourer during the cessation of other
work ; and for the juvenile population throughout the year.
Thus would the necessity for enlarging old workhouses, or
building new ones, be obviated, and the burden of such esta-
blishments be mainly removed.

Were about two acres out of every hundred of cultivated
land sown with linseed in the latter part of March or the first
week in April, the crop would, in most seasons, be secured in
time to sow the land with turnips; herein no loss could accrue
to the farmer, while an invaluable benefit would be conferred
on the community at large. For, as ‘ Idleness is at the root
of all evil, so is employment at the root of all moral, civil, and
religious order.” |

I am, your obedient servant,

JoHn WARNES, jun.
Trimingham, Feb. 6th, 1844.

Hl
es
.
&,
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on
2
—
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“
a

201

No. XI.
Sir,

Tur extraordinary manceuvre to which Mr. Gower has
resorted to avert the force of my strictures, shows how unwill-
ing he is to quit the field, though defeated at every turn.

As a last resource, my persevering opponent sent a despatch
across the German Ocean to obtain a foreign ally—an ally too
from a “ Flax Commission House, at Ghent,” whose interests
are intimately connected with the overthrow of the fiax cause
in Great Britain; an ally, upon whose bare assertion, that he
never said one of my fields of flax was worth 25/. per acre, Mr.
Gower would persuade the world that I ought to be convicted
of falsehood ; an ally, who has the effrontery to assert that he
seareely ever saw “badder crops,” in opposition to men of
experience who said they never saw better; an ally, who has
also the impudence to declare, that his sudden departure from
England hindered him from contradicting my statement,
although he could easily have done so while on a visit a
few days after at his esteemed” friend’s house at Dilham.
Nor did young Van Imschoot depart so suddenly as he would
have us believe: for he remained in Norfolk several wecks
afterwards, located in the old workhouse at North Walsham,
within six miles of Trimingham. Mr. Editor, you are doubt-
less aware that human nature is encompassed with many infir-
mities, of which conceit is not the least. Those who are better
acquainted with Mr. Gower than I am, are astonished that this
prominent defect should have led him to suppose that ‘ Norfolk
farmers and the British public” would place any reliance upon
his imported evidence from the Flax Commission House at
Ghent; a house that is engaged, with others, in sending “ five

millions’ worth of flax every year to Great Britain.”

That young Imschoot, in reply to my question, said 25/., 1
positively aver. But whether he did or not is a question un-
important to the agriculturists of Norfolk, and to the British
public. But the accuracy of the report contained in the letter
of the Hon. Mr. Rous, President of the Norfolk Flax Society,
written at the suggestion of Mr. Atlee, the secretary, and of Mr.

“
~

202

Gower, the officiating member of the committee, is of real im-
portance ; because in that report a clear profit of 4/. 9s. from
an acre of flax, independent of the seed, is proved.

Did this party possess the power of a Roman Triumvirate,
they could not have issued a proclamation to which the British
farmer would have paid greater deference, nor one that could
have more absolutely confirmed the success of my original pro-

jects, published in the ‘ Suggestions,’ viz., Ist, The Fattening.

of Cattle upon Native Produce. —2ndly, The Growth of Flax
for the sake of the seed as a substitute for Foreign Oil Cake.—
3rdly, The cultivation of that prolific plant with reference
principally to the value of the fibre.

Completely as my views have been verified, and much as I
have cause to congratulate my country on the prospect of
profitable employment being found for the population, I am
nevertheless bound ‘to observe, that the return furnished to
Mr. Rous, and ‘to which the hon. gentleman affixed his
name, is a document to which he will, one day, refer with
regret.

If the letter signed W. R. Rous may be considered as a pro-
clamation of the value of a flax crop; so may that, issued under
the signature of George Gower, be regarded as an edict pro-
hibiting the public from placing any confidence in me. I say
under the signature, because it is evident that the composition
emanated, not from his own, but from the pen of a latent an-
tagonist, evincing a servility on the one hand, and a cowardice
on the other.

Undoubtedly the arguments contained in Nos. IX. and X.
of my series ought to have been refuted, or the impossibility
of so doing candidly acknowledged.

Seeing, then, that in the place of argument abuse has been
substituted, I calmly submit to the fate of a prophet in his own
country; a fate that I anticipated when writing the preface
to my Reasons for the cultivation of Flax; wherein I observed
that “ Popularity was, at best, an uncertain privilege,” and
of which the following extract is, alas! a lively illustration
taken from the public journals, and addressed to the ‘‘ Noble-
men, Clergy, Gentry, Yeomanry, and others interested in the
prosperity of the county. of Norfolk.”

; . 203

«My Lorps anp GENTLEMEN,

«T earnestly beg your attendance at the mecting on the
16th. Youwill then have an opportunity of hearing from that
energetic and excellent gentleman, Mr. Warnes, who has spared
neither time, nor labour, nor money, in making himself master
of the subject, a full account of the mode of growing flax in
Ireland, a clear exposition of our own prospects, if we adopt

its culture, and much other interesting information on the

subject.
«“T have the honour to be, &c.,

«W.R. Rous.”
“ Worstead House, December 16th.”

The question may be asked, what has Mr. Warnes done to
forfeit the esteem of his once ardent supporter? I answer, no-
thing, but adhere to an uncompromising determination to carry
out the original designs of the Norfolk Flax Society. Finding
it impossible to do this in conjunction with the Committee of
Management, I withdrew, and continued to act independently,
under a conviction of my Providential call to the work. Hence
the defeat of the combined attempt to thwart my individual
exertions, to defame my reputation, and to render nugatory the
immeasurable benefits to be derived from the cultivation,
preparation, and manufacture of the flax plant. I sincerely
regret that self-defence compels me to advert to the above
topics, and to the perversion of a term in my reply to Mr,
Rous’s letter that had no reference whatsoever to the paltry
evidence obtained from Ghent.

The mystery to which I alluded: centred partly in a private
correspondence that passed between the Hon. Mr. Rous and
myself, in which Mr. Gower’s conduct forms a prominent fea-
ture. ‘Time and circumstances may unravel the mystery
“earlier, probably, than was anticipated,” and disclose a
treachery and ingratitude that have not often been sur-
passed.

I have reviewed the former numbers of my series wk much
care, and it is no small satisfaction, to find that I shall not
have to erase a single sentence. They will, therefore when

204

complete, re-appear in the form of a pamphlet, according to
my original intention. To which will be added the present cor-
respondence, as a record of the extraordinary and inexplicable
opposition to which my advocacy of a great cause has been
subjected; an opposition that cannot be too severely depre-
cated, on account of the stubborn and senseless determination
evinced to underrate the future value of the flax crop, by
overrating the cost of preparation.

In my last castigation, I showed Mr. Gower, that instead of
three shillings, flax could be readily scutched at one shilling
and ninepence per stone. I then made a slight mistake, for
the same work can be performed at much less money, as will
be seen in the following brief extract from a very gratifying

letter addressed to me by the gentleman to whom I alluded in
No. X :—

“ South Petherton, February 15th, 1844.
«DEAR Sir,

«JT have noticed your movements in the publie papers,
which, I trust, will be successfully consummated. With
respect to the misunderstanding between yourself and Mr.
Gower, relative to scutching flax, 1 believe in a former letter
that I stated the expense to be Is. 6d. per dozen. I had re-
ference to times when the price of flax and wages was higher.
This season we get it worked at ls. per dozen generally, but
my own being very long, I am giving 1s. 2d. with two pints of
cider daily. The three men I sent to Mr. Bates have only
1s. 2d. without liquor, and they earn 10s. per week or even
more. |

«Mr. Bates intends cultivating about 12 acres this spring.
He had an idea of paying you a visit. I perceive that flax is
about to be grown in Oxfordshire.

_“T am, Sir, yours truly,

“'T. B. Epmonps, jun.”
“ To John Warnes, Jun., Esq.”

I intend to take with me to the meeting on Saturday, speci-

205

ions of the above-named gentleman’s flax, which I confidently
- anticipate will revive the drooping spirits of the Norfolk Flax
Society ; also some of my own, which I think will prove to the
_ association that Mr. Gower’s attempt to convict me of an inten-
tional mis-statement is unfounded, and unwarrantable.

eres I am, Sir, yours obediently,

“ity Joun Warnes, jun.
Trimingham, February 20th,1844.

No. XII.
~ Sir,

Tuk realization of those benefits which I ventured to
predict at the commencement of this series, is every day being
acknowledged. And I confidently anticipate that, at no very
distant date, my advocacy of the above topics will attain a

glorious consummation.

Peculiar circumstances and prejudices will always arise in
every community to-mar the progress of good; and though
a mam should argue with the “tongue of angels,” he would
fail to allay them. All my attempts to advance the interests
of agriculture through the cultivation of flax, &c., have
been attended by the above inconveniences, and obstructed
by barriers, which the force of truth alone enabled me to
surmount.

_ It is to the reflective, generous, and patriotic mind that my

writings are especially addressed; and I rejoice to find that
in almost every part of the kingdom they excite deep interest,
and obtain fresh converts to the cause. Associations to pro-
mote the growth of flax have been established; and others are
in progress of being formed. Writers of no mean authority
are enlisting in the service, whose public and private letters
are daily being forwarded to me.

As a lively illustration of the above remarks, Mr. Brown, of
Trimingham, has already forwarded !67 bushels of sowing seed

206

of native growth to Oxfordshire, Sussex, Essex, and other coun-
ties. Vast quantities have been disposed of from other sources :
and I learn, from several parties, that the result of their expe-
riments upon a small scale last year will induce them to sow
five, six, or ten acres this spring.

With respect to the flax-stalks of last year’s growth, I have
the infinite gratification of stating, that my father and Mr.
Clover have offered the gratuitous use of extensive and appro-
priate premises, steeping-places, drying-grounds, mill, kiln,
&c. &c., at Aylsham ; in order that the adjacent crops may be
properly prepared, their real value ascertained, and the pro-
ceeds returned to the growers. Similar facilities will be
afforded in other parts of the Eastern Division of the county ;
also by the West Norfolk Branch of the National Flax and
Agricultural Improvement Association. The East Suffolk
Branch likewise carries out vigorously the designs of the Parent
Society. Mr. Brown, from Norfolk, has been engaged, and is
now travelling through that part of the county, to afford in-
struction relative to the proper preparation. of the soil, to the
sowing of the seed, and to the box-feeding and SHEN ns
system.

It is intended to locate experienced workmen at the various
establishments, where active young men will be taught the
necessary arts of steeping, grassing, scutching, &c. &c, and
thus a number of well-taught hands can quickly be dispersed
throughout the kingdom for the future management of the
fibre. I trust that this brief outline of our proceedings will
remove all doubts as to the future disposal of this part of the
crop.

With respect to the seed, which I must think is of greater
importance to the “farmer and the grazier,’ I now, in the
most unequivocal and unqualified manner, repeat what I have
so often advanced, that the cultivation of the plant for the sake
of the linseed will amply remunerate. I no longer assert this
as a matter of opinion, but as a matter of fact, substantiated

by the produce of many growers last year. I am induced to

express myself thus strongly in consequence of the injudicious
remarks contained in our Norfolk agricultural report for the

207

present month. The writer observes, “This, in all probability,
may be accounted for from the circumstance that the cattle-
compound is gradually obtaining an ascendancy over oil-cake
in the grazing department, in the manufacture of which beans
are found to be the cheapest and most useful ingredient, linseed
perhaps excepted. The cultivation of flax was first taken up
to supply the latter, and even if it should eventually turn out
that flax cannot be grown with profit, except for the fibre, a
great point will still be gained by using a portion at least of
the produce of our own soil in the shape of what is commonly
called artificial cattle-food, although we may have to resort to
the foreigner for the other portion. We would say to every
farmer and grazier, purchase your linseed and supply yourself
with what more may be necessary for the manufacture of com-
pound—the proportion is one stone of linseed to four stones
weight of bean-meal; thus you will retain eighty per cent. of
the amount hitherto expended for oil-cake to circulate and
re-produce wealth among yourselves, instead of transferring it
to the pockets of the foreigner.”

_ The above advice lays the axe at once to the root of all my
exertions for the British farmer. Im justice to him, I am
bound to avert a stroke so fatal to his interests. That my
attempt will prove successful there can be no doubt, because
profit and common sense declare in my favour. I have already
shown in my former writings, that unless a strict regard is paid
to the seed, flax cannot be extensively or profitably cultivated
in this country.

By far the greater quantity of imported flax is that from
which the seed has been saved, and is, from all that I can learn,
the most profitable to the grower. My object has always been
to direct public attention to this particular quality, and not to
those peculiarly fine descriptions, suited alone to garden cul-
ture, and to hands long accustomed to the arts of preparation.
My desire is to imtroduce into our fields this double crop, the
most remunerative part of which to the “farmer and the gra-
zier,” I again repeat is the seed. It is true, that the finest
flax will obtain double the price per ton of the inferior sorts,
but it must be remembered that more land is required to pro-
duce it—that it incurs an infinity of trouble and expense, and

208

what is still worse, returns nothing to the soil. Besides, if all
were to grow first-rate flax, the price would become lower than
that of the coarser sorts, and we should be placed in a predi-
cament similar to that of Ireland for the want of the latter

article last year, as the following passage from my pamphlet,

entitled, ‘Extracts from Ancient and Modern Writers on the
Flax Crop,’ willshow; page 13: “It was announced, that actually

coarse flax, for spinning low numbers, was now so difficult to

be obtained here, in consequence of the improvement of the
quality of the crop this season in Ireland, that the Belfast
spinners were importing largely from the Baltic, and that four
cargoes had arrived at our quays since the 10th instant. The
gentleman who stated this circumstance observed, that he had
been obliged to send his son to Dundee, to purchase the supply
of the article in question required by him.” :

With regard to the cattle-compound, unquestionably its su-
periority centresin the linseed meal. Upon this point I never
before heard a doubt surmised. Four years have now elapsed
since its discovery, during which time, innumerable experi-
ments have been made and published, of which Mr. Postle’s
will ever stand the foremost.

Thousands of sheep and bullocks have been, and thousands
are now being, fattened upon linseed, formed into compound,
in many parts of the kingdom. Under these circumstances, the
doubt expressed in your agricultural report is to me an inex-
plicable, though at the same time an amusing, anomaly.

Without the use of linseed, the attempt profitably to fatten
cattle upon grain or pulse, would be unavailing. I speak from
the result of varied experiments, during the progress of which
I ascertained that it was of little consequence with what ingre-
dients compounds are made, provided a due proportion of
linseed be not omitted. For instance, since last July, instead
of corn, I have used an extra quantity of linseed meal, which
being intimately incorporated with turnips reduced to a pulp,
and with ordinary hay cut short, forms a compound, or rather a
mass, that I find equally efficacious and less expensive; the
description and effects of which are clearly stated in the eighth
number of this series.

To lay down any general rule for making compound would

209
% Beto destroy one of the greatest advantages that the system
possesses over oil-cake, and which I have explained in the

_ *Suggestions.’ A compound formed of four parts of properly
prepared beans, to one only of linseed, would, at the present

weight, quality, and price of each, cost about 50s. per ton;

with the addition of potatoes, something less. Peas, according

— to my own experience, are superior to beans. Potatoes, on

many accounts, especially on that of economy, are preferable to
either. In fact, from repeated trial, observation, and report,

Tam strongly in favour of the potato compound invented by

_ Mr..Cubitt, of Witton. But’ every grazier must consult his _
_ wn convenience. Experience alone will convince him, that
whether hay, peas or potatoes, beans or barley are employed, the
office of all mainly consists in conveying linseed to the stomach
of the animal, and that a great error would be committed by a
parsimonious use of that potent ingredient, which like the
philosopher’ s stone turns everything into gold. Besides, a
liberal proportion of linseed will always ensure the ascendancy
_over foreign oil-cake; and a quick return, the mainspring of
all trade, will animate the hitherto tardy operations of the
farmer and of the grazier.

- My advice is, provide yourselves by all means from the
resources of your farms, with whatever is necessary to form
the cattle-compound ; with beans, peas, and potatoes where
the land is suitable to those crops, but especially with lin-
seed, which, observe, will flourish upon soils where none
of the others can be advantageously cultivated. That fiax
impoverishes the soil is a mere vulgar notion, devoid of all
truth. The best historical relations, and the verbal ac-
counts of honest ingenuous planters, concur in declaring it to be
a vain prejudice, unsupported by any authority; and that
these crops really meliorate and improve the soil. Again, as
Mr. Smith, of Chibneys, observes, “‘ With respect to the course
‘of crops, to make the most advantage of clayey land, flax
_ should be your first crop; but this, I know by experience, many,
~ nay, I may say all, landlords will argue against; but I have
had the pleasure, by experience, to convince them that they
are wrong ; for by sowing flax, and that being well attended
to, your land is excellently prepared for wheat, your tenant

P

210

has in the flax an excellent manure for his latter-math, upon
which his flax is laid; he has a rich supply of seed to feed all
his cattle; he has abundance of labour for the poor; and at last
has, from a good crop, from ten to fifteen pounds per acre to
put into his purse to enable him to be a good tenant, and to
give both land and landlord every satisfaction required.”

That the above statements are, inthe main, correct, there can
be no doubt. I have grown flax for three years in various
fields without perceiving any deterioration of soil or exhausting
effect. On the contrary, I considered the land improved by
the change of rotation, and by the effect of the crop on after
tillage. Nor has a complaint of this kind been made by any
one who grew flax for the sake of the seed in 1842. Fifty-six
acres were, that year, grown in different parts of Norfolk; and
nearly all who then tried the experiment upon a small scale,
increased it last year, when about 400 acres were grown,

Now, Mr. Editor, when we consider the uncertainty of the
turnip crop on the one hand, and, on the other, that there are
thousands of acres that will not produce turnips under any cir-
cumstances, surely the appropriation of such lands to the pro-
duction of linseed must confer a lasting benefit not only upon
the tenant and the landlord, but also upon the kingdom at
large.

I am,-your obedient servant,

Joun Warves, Jun.
Trimingham, March 29th, 1844.

No. XIIT.
Sir,

Turoucu the kind attention of a gentleman in West
Norfolk, the Bury Post of the 12th ult. was put into my hands,
containing the report of the West Suffolk Agricultural Asso-
ciation meeting. My friend is a native of that part of Suffolk,
and was anxious that I should be offered an opportunity of ac-
knowledging the high compliment paid me on that occasion,

211

and. of correcting the statements of the Rev. D. Gwilt, and
_ of Mr. Gower, in particular, respecting the cultivation of
_ ‘T return my cordial thanks to the president, Capt. Heigham,
and to the members assembled, for their kind opinion of my

| a services to those two great classes of the community, British
farmers and British labourers, through which all our wants are

supplied, and to support which I shall not cease to toil, though

_ ¢logged on the one hand by a selfish and idle prejudice, and on

_ the other by a misanthropic opposition.

I regret my absence from the meeting, because I could have
afforded that information which Mr. Gower so studiously with-

held, and which, as Hon. Sec. to the National Flax and Agri-

cultural Improvement Association, I am constrained to supply. -

_ Otherwise I should consider it unnecessary to animadvert upon

_ his incongruous statements, because they clearly prove, if
_ further proof were needed, the soundness of my advice to grow

flax for the sake of the seed as well as for the fibre. ;
___Mr. Gower observed, “I am satisfied that if a man tried to
grow both at one time he would fail in both.” But shortly
_ afterwards he informed the company, that “his land last year

_ produced seed and forty stone of flax per acre.” Now as the

_ price for which an article is sold is no criterion of profit, so
five shillings per stone, the price offered for Mr. Gower’s flax,
_ is no criterion of the acreable profit of his crop ; which profit
was, in fact, the real object of inquiry, and should therefore
have been laid before the meeting. In-Mr. Gower’s former
public, as well as private communications, he declared that he
_ “had nodoubt of flax being a paying crop,—that he grew four

acres, part for the seed and part for the fibre,—that he had
five coombs of seed per acre off the whole, and thathe was bid

_ 85/. for the fibre after he had taken the seed.” But as the seed

_ from each crop was not thrashed separately, it is impossible to
ascertain how much the portion of land appropriated to the
_ growth of the seed, produced above that for the fibre. From
_ many returns before me, varying from 14 even to 32 bushels
_ per acre, I calculate about 6 bushels. This would give 26
_ bushels per acre, which at Mr. Gower’s own and low estimate
of the value of the seed, at 6s. 3d. per bushel, would amount
P 2

212

to 8/. 5s., or 40 stone of fiax included, at 5s. per stone, to 18/.
5s. per acre, independent of the chaff, tow, and broken stalks,
which may be set against the straw of other crops.

How strange the anomaly that involves this perplexing qués-
tion, ‘‘ How is a man to grow linseed without flax?” and Mr.
Gower’s assertion, that “If a man tried to grow both at one
time he would fail in both!” To solve these problems is be-
yond my power. But I have authority from Mr. Robert At-
kinson, of Walcot, to state, that he grew last year, upon an
acre of land, instead of turnips, and without manure, 6 coombs
3 bushels of linseed, and 2 tons 6 ewt. of coarse and fine flax-
stalks. The seed he disposed of at 6s. 6d. per bushel, and the
stalks at 2/. per ton, amounting altogether to 13/. 7s. 6d., ex-
- clusive of chaff.

It appears that one ton of stalks, after being steeped and
prepared for scutching, will be reduced to nearly half its ori-
ginal weight; from which half, about one-fourth only of
marketable flax is generally obtained. So that Mr. Atkinson’s
crop will yield 46 stone of flax, independent of tow, &c., and
realize, at 5s. per stone, and at 6s. 6d. per bushel for the seed,
201. 5s. per acre. This crop is now being worked out upon
Mr. Brown’s premises at Trimingham, at ls. 9d. per stone for
scutching, and 3d. per stone for breaking ; affording 8s. per day
to four men, ls. 9d. to two women, and 1s. to two girls. My
father had six pecks of linseed sown upon a little less than an
acre of land, from which he obtained 4 coombs 2 bushels of ©
excellent seed; 37 stone 7 lbs. of fine and coarse flax; 16 stone
13 lbs. of tow; about 12 sacks of chaff ; and 119 stone of broken
stalks; the whole of which is estimated at 187. 5s. The seed
and chaff were consumed upon the farm ; but the flax, tow, &c.,
remain for the inspection of any party who may feel disposed
to make further inquiry.

Mr. Deman, of North Walsham, the Belgian flax factor,
gives from 20 pence to 2s. per stone for scutching, and Mr.
Brown pays 2s.; of which circumstances, I am credibly assured,
Mr. Gower was not ignorant. Justice, therefore, required
that he should have qualified the statements of his own expe-
rience by a candid relation of his neighbours’ also, and not
have left an erroneous impression on the meeting that flax

213

. i fail to remunerate, because the process sof hand- -scutching
could not be performed for less than 3s. per stone.
I shall not, on the present occasion, attempt to combat Mr.
Gower's peculiar notion, that flax pulled in a green state will
weigh one-third more than if allowed to arrive at maturity ; but
I cannot so briefly glide over the “ very striking instance” he
: adduced of the exhausting effect of the crop; because the flax
_ to which he refers was no other than that grown by the Hon.
w. R. Rous, at Worstead ; and which, according to the detailed
account published by that gentleman, realized a clear profit of
91, per acre, after deducting rent, tithe, rates, tillage, manure,
seed, steeping, &c., and also scutching at 3s. per stone. The
crop was Spends, averaging from three to four feet in length.
Some of the stalks, that exceeded four feet four inches, I had
the pleasure of exhibiting at the Council of the Royal Agri-
cultural Society, and at the Derby meeting.
ss Under these circumstances it is only reasonable to suppose
at the soil was, in some measure, exhausted. But suppo-
sition i is not proof, and therefore Mr. Gower ought not to have
asserted that “So exhausting was it to the land, that fourteen
loads of manure per acre were put on the land where it was
pulled off,” till the effect had been absolutely tested by a suc-
ceeding crop. The result would, probably, have been in favour

: of the produce after flax, rather than after mangold grown

in the same field. Undoubtedly fourteen loads of manure
were applied to the land, but for a purpose far different
from that adduced by Mr. Gower. ‘The truth is simple,
and easily explained. Mr. Rous was desirous of sowing
turnip seed immediately after the flax, and of securing two
crops in the same year. Manure was therefore resorted
to, and turnips obtained of so excellent a quality, that samples
were exhibited at the North Walsham Root Show, and the
circumstance of their having been grown after flax in the same
year published in the Report of the Farmers’ Club, by the
Secretary, Mr. Gower himself, The land in question was sown
with linseed on the 2nd of April, 1843, and the account of this
interesting experiment first conveyed to the public through the
‘ Norwich Mercury,’ of which the following is a copy :—

214

£ 8. d.

Rent, tithe, and rates : 5 ‘ 2 0:0
Two winter ploughings 012.0
Spring farrowing down, ploughing, lowing, and bushing 011 0
One thousand gallons of liquid manure 015 0
Three bushels of seed 100
Weeding and pulling crop ee aa
Steeping, drying, and retying, &c. 1 s-0
Seutching 54 stone of flax at 3s. per stone 8 2 0
£15. 2.0

Value of the crop—54 stone of flax, at 9s. per stone £24 6 0
Balance . 3 ‘ j £9 4 0

It was afterwards discovered that four stone of flax had been
omitted, and that five stone of tow, ten bushels of seed, a
quantity of chaff, and about a ton of broken stalks, ought to
have been added, in order to render the report complete ; also,
the after-crop of turnips, as the rent, rates, and tithe were
charged to the flax-crop. Without the aid of a very close
scrutiny, it will be seen that several pounds might be placed
to the acknowledged profit of 9/. 4s., and that a sum clear of
all expenses was realized greatly exceeding the profit from
any other crop. Considering the number of hands employed,
and that from ten to twelve pounds or more were distributed
amongst the poor in wages, I think it will be allowed that a
candid and clear relation of these facts, with which Mr. Gower
was so well acquainted, would have been more edifying to the
meeting, and more creditable to himself, than the awful history
of the application of fourteen loads of manure to the worn-out
soil. The company would then have perceived that the cul-
tivation of flax opens a door for the profitable employment of
British capital,—for the advancement of the Agriculture and
home commerce of the United Kingdom, and for the removal
of those grievances to which the labouring classes have so long
been subjected. |

With respect to the Rev. D. Gwilt’s remarks on my con-
troversial letters, I have only to observe, that I attempted not

215

to expose the substitution of the Gold of Pleasure for flax, till
called upon by many influential parties who were desirous of
ascertaining whether the glowing accounts of the “ new flax-
seed” might be implicitly relied upon. Some, indeed, pre-
vious to their application to me, hastened to purchase the seed
of a plant that, “ere long, was to take that place in the agri-

cultural world, to which by its high merits it was so justly en-

titled; and that, “when the price of corn was very low and
_ eheerless, would never fail to produce gold with pleasure and
_ abundance;” a plant, they were further told, that “was pro-
___videntially sent to assist the farmer in a lucky moment.”
| ___My first letter on ‘the Gold of Pleasure versus Linseed’
_ appeared in the Farmers’ Journal of the 26th Dec. 1843, in
which I briefly recounted my experience as a grower of the
Camelina sativa, and my conviction of its utter worthlessness
__ in comparison to the inestimable flax-plant. I also subjoined
the following passage from Sir James Smith's English Flora,
~ Vol. iii., page 164 :—* The ridiculous pompous English name
seems a satire on the articles of which it is composed, as yielding

2 nothing but disappointment.” ‘T’o the Editor I observed, and

now repeat, that “It was far from my object unnecessarily to
expose individuals to ridicule, because, intermixed with artful |.
and designing men were many who, from want of experience
of those things which they advocate, unintentionally lead the
anxious inquirer into the adoption of fruitless schemes. To
this number, your correspondent, Mr. Gwilt, appears to belong ;
for in his letter of the |4th inst. he observes, ‘a little more

E experience, I confidently predict, will prove the Gold of Plea-

_ sure to be superior to flax, in the opinion of the practical agricul-
turist.” So far, therefore, from bringing any accusation against
“Mr. Gwilt, I exonerated him from all intentional participation in
the fraud that was being practised of palming upon the pub-
_lic, as superior to flax, a noxious weed, the stalks of which were
as destitute of fibre as the straw of wheat or of peas. I say
fraud, because the original promoters, according to their.own
account of 40 to 50 bushels of seed per acre, and to the charge
of four shillings per pound, aimed at the exorbitant profit of
560/. per acre. It is true, the price was afterwards reduced to
eighteen pence per pound—the fibrous properties of the plant

216.

disowned, and the cultivation recommended mainly for the sake
of the oil; but, knowing that the expiring lamp of agricul-
ture required a restorative more enduring than the Gold of
Pleasure, I continued to enforce the cultivation of flax as the
surer source from which the British Farmer might draw em-
ployment for his labourers, food for his cattle, and manure for
his land. te
In consequence, some hundreds of acres have been sown in
various parts of the kingdom: and the experiments have
proved that even the most ordinary soils produced linseed in
abundance. It appears that,in the present year, a still greater
breadth of land has been appropriated to this important plant.
The seed formed into compound with grain or pulse, or incor-
porated with hay, straw, or grass, has been found superior to
any other food for fattening cattle. It is now extensively used,
and said to be the cause of the present low price of foreign
oil-cake. Many eminent graziers have relinquished the old,
in favour of the new system of fattening cattle upon native
produce, which, with the additional advantages of box-feeding
and summer grazing, is being rapidly adopted ; advantages
that include economy of food and straw, expeditious and profit-
able grazing, and a supply of manure more cheap and effica-
cious than can be obtained through any other source. Inex-
perience relative to the management of the fibre has been the
chief hindrance to a more extensive growth of flax. This
difficulty, however, is fast being removed; for Belgian and
Irish instructors have been introduced, and some of our men
are already becoming expert in the steeping, scutching, and
handling processes. Under a multitude of disadvantages,
many acres of flax have been prepared; principally by Mr.
Deman at North Walsham, who, we may reasonably suppose,
would relinquish the business, were it unconnected with profit.
The coarse description of flax appears likely tosu persede hemp
for the manufacture of many articles; particularly of fishing-
nets. Experiments were made, last year, upon a limited scale;
these are now much enlarged, and offer a prospect to fisher-
men of purchasing their twine and cordage at one-fourth less
than the present price. The providing, therefore, of coarse flax
as a substitute for foreign hemp, and of linseed as a substitute

217

for foreign oil-cake, ought to be as much the care of the farmer
as the providing of the nation with corn. Seeing, then, that
the immense sums annually sent out of the country for the
purchase of hemp and cake, tend to enrich the foreign, at the
expense of the British farmer, and to employ the foreign,
instead of the English labourer; and seeing that flax does not
lessen, but increase the produce of corn,—no argument of weight
can be brought against its cultivation. But I ought to ob-
serve that the soil and climate of Great Britain are more
congenial to the growth of fine than of coarse flax; for,
acrop of the latter can scarcely be produced without a large
proportion of the former, which, when selected, is worth more
per stone, and is prepared for the finest purposes.

The Belgians are particularly careful and expert in sorting
flax. Their plan is being adopted in Norfolk ; and some of the
flax thus secured has been spun into yarn by women and children,
and manufactured into linen, stockings, and gloves at Norwich,
North Walsham, Lowestoff, and other places. But it appears,
from communications with which I have lately been favoured,
that discoveries have been made, by which “ Flax grown in
Somersetshire, of a dark, foxy, and bad colour, that cost 35/.
per ton delivered at Leeds, was so improved as to be rendered
in colour and fineness nearly equal to the celebrated Courtrai
flax.’ My correspondent kindly forwarded a specimen, and
informed me, at the same time, that, “From various experi-
ments made in English, Irish, French, and the Baltic flax, he
would soon convince me that if we could only grow flax in this
country, it would be prepared in a manner that will make yarn
_ equal to that obtained from foreign flax.’ In due time, the
process referred to will, I doubt not, be made public. I merely
allude to it,on the present occasion, as corroborative of ar-
guments and experience in favour of the double crop. All my
calculations will be found, in the main, correct; and it is with
satisfaction that I can refer the reader to my pamphlets and
letters published.during the past four years.. I trust I have
now shown that flax, under experienced management, must be
highly remunerative—that the grower, in sacrificing the seed,
would lose the chief benefit of the crop—and that the contrary
opinions upon this subject are futile. I trust, also, I have

218

‘shown that the Gold of Pleasure, in comparison of flax, is
worthless. But, lest I should be thought to lean too much to
my own opinion, I subjoin the published letter of Messrs.
Gibbs, the eminent seedsmen in London :—

To the Editor of the Farmers’ Journal.
Sir, |

In your valuable paper of the Ist inst. we had the plea-
sureof reading Mr. Warnes’s letter on the Myagium sativum,
or Gold of Pleasure ; and having grown it largely for a trial
some years ago, can confidently corroborate what he has stated.
Not content with our own trial only, we presented some seed
to the Rev. Mr. Gwilt, about eight years ago, and had fancied
until lately that his opinion of its merits agreed with our own.
A gentleman called upon and offered us the agency of his seed,
and we then told him the fair result of our own experiments.
We might add that the field we grew it on was a sand, at our
place in Bedfordshire. We had a good return in straw and
seed. The former was used as litter for pigs, and the latter,
at least the greatest portion, was rotted for manure.

Your most obedient servants,

Tromas Gisss and Co., Seedsmen.

Corner of Half Moon Street, Piccadilly,
Jan. 13th, 1844.

I had intended to offer, or rather to renew, a few observations
on the indirect advantages arising from the cultivation of flax ;
but I have already trespassed too much upon your columns.
I will, however, briefly advert to the depressed state of the
labour market, the real cause of failure in all other markets,
and the origin of those nocturnal calamities so frequently
referred to in both Houses of Parliament. Amongst the vari-
ous schemes that have been tried, and propositions made for
the renovation of this market, the national adoption of flax eul-
ture alone offers the prospect of success; because, involved init
is the retention of nine or ten millions a year now expended in the
foreign market, for the purchase of the fibre, seed, oil, and cake.

ae | Ae 4 Pan

219

“a the preparation of dicee articles, the cost for labour cannot be
less than one moiety. or perhaps two-thirds of the whole amount.
An overwhelming consideration !!!_ And when it isremembered,
also, that the circulation of these millions at home in the culture
of the plant and preparation ofthe fibre would find employ-
ment for the redundant population of this country, and render
the payment of rates nominal, the subject demands the most
serious investigation. Should it be inquired upon what I
found my calculations, I reply, upon 750,000 acres of flax that
are annually imported for the use of our spinning mills, and
upon the amount of wages at the rate only of six pounds per
acre. Under the supposition that the number of acres may be
doubted, I refer to the 56,000 barrels of foreign linseed, con-
taining seven bushels each, sold in Ireland this year, and calcu-
lating the number of acres sown with this, and with native seed,
at two bushels per acre, it will be found that a breadth of land,
exceeding 200,000 acres, has been appropriated to flax. Last

. a 112,000 acres were given in the county of Ulster alone.

ow, in the most favourable seasons 200,000 acres would not
produce half the supply required for the Irish mills. We may
therefore easily perceive that 750,000 acres of flax fall much
beneath the quantity required by the English, Irish, and Scotch
spinners. In Norfolk, last year, between four and five hun-
dred acres of fiax were grown; affording employment to many,
particularly to the more inefficient and juvenile population,
who would, otherwise, have remained in destitution and idle-
ness. ‘The beneficial effects arising from the various flax
operations in progress at Trimingham and other places are
daily seen, effects that undoubtedly tend to promote the moral
and social interests of the parties employed : and when it is con-
sidered that three or four thousand pounds must be circulated
in the shape of wages before the crops referred to can be
brought to market, it is evident that were the culture propor-
tionably extended to every part of the kingdom, similar results
would follow, and the universal benefits conferred surpass cal-
culation. I therefore venture to repeat that the subject
demands the most serious investigation, and in order to facili-
tate the inquiry I confidently direct public attention to the
operations of the East Suffolk Flax Association, because the.

220

crops in that part of the country, being under the management
of an active and intelligent Belgian, a more valuable description
of flax will be brought to market than any yet produced in this
country, and a stimulus, I am persuaded, will be given to that
extended cultivation of the inestimable flax plant, which I have
so long advocated as the only means of meeting the wants of an
unemployed population. |
I am, Sir,

Joun Warnes, Jun.
Trimingham, Norfolk, July 3rd, 1844.

No. XIV.

Sir,

Ir will be remembered by the readers of this series
that I have ever invited inquiry, and promised answers to any
reasonable objections against my plans for the advancement of
agriculture, and for the employment of the population.

Amongst my earliest and most preserving opponents was

- the Manchester Guardian, an organ of the Anti-Corn-Law |

League. Through this quarter my movements have been
watched, garbled accounts of my proceedings published, and
the cause which I advocate misrepresented ; a cause that,
nevertheless, is surely, though slowly, advancing; and, when
properly understood and supported, will inevitably render
nugatory the ungenerous opposition of the League. Daily
experience justifies this opinion; and I desire to inform the
working classes of Manchester, and of every other manufactur-
ing town, as I have already informed the operatives of Nor-
wich, that my exertions are directed to the obtaining for them,
not only an abundant supply of cheap bread, but of cheap
meat also. .
The League would have them believe that I aim at a high
price for wheat, and at lessening the means of subsistence; as
will be seen by the following article that appeared in the Man-
chester Guardian of the 9th instant; an article in itself only

221

important as it affords me the opportunity of clearly explain-
ing the real nature and extent of my undertaking.

« Flax a Puzzler!”
“The duty on foreign flax is one penny per cwt.. A cvwt. of
good flax is worth about 43s., which is the average price of the
quarter of wheat in Lincolnshire for the last week. Wheat
enjoys the protection of 20s. a quarter at this moment, which
is 240 times more than the ad valorem duty on flax; and the
question may be fairly asked of the farmer, ‘ Do you find this
protection reach you in the shape of extra profit upon your
wheat as compared to your flax? This inquiry is answered
by our old acquaintance, Mr. Warnes, of Norfolk, who, we
see, has been paying an agitating visit into Sussex, to stimu-
late the farmers to grow flax instead of wheat; and Sir Charles
Burrell, under whose auspices he appeared at the Arundel
and Bramtree Agricultural Meeting, is urgent in recommend-
ing his tenants to enter upon the cultivation of this unpro-
tected article. The wheat-growing farmers in Sussex, as Mr.
Ellman informs us, are in a distressed plight: let us see if we
can draw an argument or two for their instruction from the
remedy prescribed for the cure of the ills by Mr. Warnes and
Sir Charles Burrell. The protectionists (as they facetiously
call themselves) tell the farmers that the unprofitable price of
wheat is caused by the importations from abroad. Now, the
whole of the foreign wheat and wheaten flour entered for home
consumption this year amounts to about 750,000 quarters, or
less than a tenth part of the whole consumption. During the
same time 800,000 ewts. of foreign flax-have been imported, or
more than a third part of the whole consumption. Again, we
are told that the English farmer cannot compete with the serf-
labour in Russia. Yet it is a notorious fact, that a great por-
tion of the flax is imported from Russia. Then Sir Robert
Peel tells us, that the English farmer has heavy burdens,
such as poor rates and highway rates, to bear; to which Lord
John Russell has added county rates; but are not all these
borne by the flax-grower, as well as by the cultivator of wheat ?
The National Debt of the country, we are told, prevents the
English farmer from competing with foreigners ; but does the

222

tax-collector pass by the door of the flax-grower? ‘The Duke
of Richmond assures us that the Corn Law is for the protee-
tion of the labourers; does the peasant who ploughs, sows, and
harrows in the whee, field earn higher wages than his neigh-
bour who works for Mr. Warnes in rearing flax ?

“ Your answer, my Lord Duke !
_ The League.”

The inquirer was doubtless aware that the Duke of Rich-
mond would not undertake to answer his questions; and it is
- evident that they were put by one who understood neither the
real bearing of the subject, nor how adverse the discussion
would prove to a free trade in corn. To me, the task of re-
plying to these questions more properly belongs. But the
writer has himself answered the first by asserting that I advised
the farmers of Sussex to grow flax instead of wheat; than
which nothing can be further from the truth. Nor can he
point out an instance in which I ever advocated the substitu-
tion of flax for wheat. It is a fact worthy of observation, that
the best flax is produced after wheat, and that the finest crops of
wheat will follow flax. So that, upon soils such as I inspected
in Sussex, I had no doubt but that, under judicious manage-
ment, two crops of wheat and one of flax might be grown in »
three years. With this impression I advised the agriculturists
of Sussex to grow flax upon small portions of those lands that
would otherwise lie fallow, as a far more profitable preparation
for wheat.

The experiments of Sir Charles Burrell proved that the soil
of his part of the country was congenial to the growth of the
plant ; and that cattle, fattened in summer upon the seed,
amply repaid, without regard to the value of the fibre; facts
in themselves too convincing to require any very “urgent”
recommendation to follow the Hon. Baronet’s example.

With respect to the extraordinary comparison between a
quarter of wheat and a cwt. of flax, I must refer to
the eminent spinners of Leeds to decide, whether flax of a
fine quality, that alone could with any propriety be compared
to good wheat, can be purchased at less than about double

223

the sum of 43s. per ewt. At all events, I never sold any, even
_ for the coarsest purposes, for so little money as 43s. per ewt.
___ As aprotectionist myself, 1 assert that the unprofitable price

of wheat, and the profitable price of flax to the British grower,
___ are, at the present time, both occasioned by importation. This

apparent anomaly may be easily explained.

It will be seen that the arguments of the dbo article (if
__ they may be called such) resolve themselves into the two fol-
lowing questions :—

____ Ist. How can the English grower afford to sell flax for the
__same price at which the foreigner imports it free of duty, at less
cost for labour, and unburdened by a national debt, poor, high-
way, and county rates?

2nd. Why cannot the English grower afford to sell wheat
for the same price at which the foreigner imports it free of
duty?

I answer, that the quantity of flax grown in this country is
so much beneath the demand, that the foreign farmer or specu-
lator, knowing our necessities, is able to charge so high a price

that the British grower can readily accept the terms, although
burdened with all those disadvantages from which the foreigner
is exempt.

Formerly, the superiority preponderated in favour of British
flax; but, during the war, government removed the restrictive
duties. The foreigner then quickly inundated us with flax,
obtained the ascendancy, exercised ever after an arbitrary con-
trol over the flax-market, and compelled our manufacturers to

__ pay for the raw material, not “about 43s. only,” but about
140s. per ewt.; or, instead of 437. per ton, 140/.: while the
Belgian farmers, in particular, realized from 30/. to 501. per
acre for what they significantly term their “golden crop.” A
serious warning of what may be expected when the duty on
foreign wheat shall be a penny per quarter !!

___ It will now appear evident to the most common understand-
ing, that, should we become as dependent upon foreign nations
for bread as we now are for flax, English wheat must inevitably
share the fate of English flax. Land would be thrown out of
cultivation; the foreigner obtain the command of price; and

224

the few growers of wheat, like the few growers of flax, would
alone reap a profit.

It will be perceived that my reply to the first quetilien
embodies that of the second. Short indeed is the explanation
required to show the impossibility of our contending against
the farmers of foreign countries, even under the present pro-
tective duties: for, as surely as they now rule the flax mar-
ket, so will they ultimately the wheat market also.

Sixty years ago the Belgians were an insignificant people.
Now, through their flax dealings with us they have become
rich and powerful. Imitating their example, our confinental
neighbours are rapidly improving their agriculture. They
employ agents to traverse our best cultivated districts for
the purpose of acquiring information, and of purchasing our
machines, cattle, &c.; and, unless we meet the approaching
danger by securing profit through increased production, the
tenant farmer will discover too late, that land, though divested |
of all the burdens to which the Manchester Guardian refers,
could not avert his ruin.

I now wish to observe, that, when speaking of “ cheap bread,”
I mean not the price of wheat per quarter, but the acreable
profit to the grower; and that by “cheap meat,” I mean, not
- the price per pound of beef or mutton, but the profit obtained
through the increased number of fat cattle sent to market. I
cannot better enforce this part of my subject than by subjoining
an extract from the seventh number of this series, which the
League, though they claim me for an “old acquaintance,” had
not the courage to circulate amongst their deluded followers :—

«« An apprehension has been expressed, that my object in in-
troducing the cultivation of flax was to supersede that of corn,
to raise the price of provisions, and lessen the means of subsis-
tence ; hence the loudly expressed alarm, ‘ We cannot eat flax.’
It certainly might appear to the superficial reasoner that the
appropriation of land to the growth of flax would necessarily
diminish the supply of wheat. But a careful investigation of
the subject will soon disperse this fear. It will be discovered,
that the best flax is grown upon wheat stubble; that, upon
strong soils in particular, flax is an excellent crop to precede

4 ; _ wheat, —that as flax will flourish on newly broken-up soils, it will

| E _ evidently be the means of bringing into regular cultivation large

4 tracts of barren land; that it will require less than two acres

® to. -every hundred now in cultivation, to supply the present

_ demand for flax, independent of foreign aid, from which infi-
__ nitely more tons of linseed would be obtained to fatten cattle
_ than were ever imported of oil-cake in one year ; that through-
_ out my pamphlets, previous letters, and present series, pub-
: lished during the past four years, I advocate constant work, at
= e wages ; and not only cheap bread, but also cheap meat
_ for the people. Showing, from the result of successful experi-

ments, that, through the cultivation of flax, the fattening of
cattle upon native produce, box-feeding, and summer-grazing,

4 three bullocks and three sheep may be fattened where only
one of each was kept before ;—and that it did not require a

. very profound calculation to discover that a triple quantity

_ of manure thus obtained would produce a corresponding increase
__ in the productions of the earth, the price of which is immaterial
_ to the farmer, provided he is remunerated, as is oftener the

___ ease with a plentiful crop ‘and a low price than with a scanty
one and a high price. I rejoice that measures are being

adopted for a vigorous extension of the above system through
every part of the kingdom. Already much progress has been
made; and I look forward with renewed confidence to no very
distant date, when the manufacturer shall not have cause to

complain that the high price of the common necessaries of life
prevents his successful competition with foreign markets. I

4 4 cannot avoid expressing my surprise that those who profess so

much sympathy for the poor, and who depict so truly the

horrors consequent on non-employment, should attempt to

_ thwart measures that would at once obtain the desired relief ;—
_ should offer their vague and empty theories in opposition to
_ solid and permanent benefits ;—rejecting the good within their
_ immediate reach, in order to grapple with phantoms which
' never fail to elude their grasp ;—holding out to starving mor-
tals the blessed prospect that with ‘six shillings a week’ a

"man is to maintain himself and family, and fare sumptuously

q upon provisions drawn from foreign resources, to the encourage-
ment of foreign farmers and to the employment of foreign
Q

226

labourers. To such monstrous propositions mine are diame-
trically opposed. ‘They have been often recorded, and centre
in the desire to advance the rate of wages, to maintain the
value of British property, and to preserve that proud position
in the scale of nations which we have so long enjoyed; recog-
nising to the fullest extent that portion of British property
which the poor man alone possesses —viz., his labour.”

In fine, Mr. Editor, the two primary objects which the pro-
moters of the cultivation of fiax have in view are, to find
employment for the people by the preparation of the fibre, and
food for cattle through the use of the seed. The direct profit
upon a few acres of flax, abstractedly considered, is unimport-
ant. But the indirect advantages arising from an araplayed
population are incalculable,

If the circulation of a few extra millions in the te of
wages can be considered a benefit, then does the flax crop hold
forth the glorious prospect of securing a greater amount of
labour than any other production of the earth; securing,
because, when once fairly introduced, it must become perma-
nent: and not only would agriculture experience a stimulus,
but commerce also; for we should become real instead of nominal
exporters of linen: and the home consumption of provisions
and of every description of manufactured goods would be pro-
portionally increased. I say nominal exporters, because we
are now obliged first to import the raw material, before we
export it in the form of linen.

Undoubtedly the spinning and weaving of flax are branches
of business highly beneficial; but, were it grown and pre-
pared at home, our national advantages would be much more
than doubled.

That the proprietors of our great spinning-mills desire to
promote the home cultivation, is evident; for the Messrs.
Marshall and Co., of Leeds, were amongst my earliest imstiga-_
tors to perseverance. And, as a further confirmation, I need
only refer to the circumstance of the Messrs. Mulholland, of :
Belfast, having withdrawn no less a sum than 40,000/. a year
from the purchase of foreign in favour of Irish flax.

Of one fact we may rest assured, viz., that the Spinners of —

227

t Britain are anxious to circulate those millions at home
Ww they now send abroad ; and, when it is considered ‘that
- the major part of those millions would be paid in wages to the
, “weaker and juvenile population, who can but foresee the bene-
ficial effects upon the habits and morals of the people ?!!
_ Thousands would be preserved from early crime,—>parish rates
4 - present a decrease in proportion to the money circulated-~-
_ property be rendered secure,—and pauperism, the disgrace of
our land, be displaced by liberty and independence. Then
_ who would not urge the experiment upon agriculturists? and

who but the League would charge landowners with a desire to
increase the distresses of the people? !!

_ The readers of agricultural reports must be struck with the
_ general expression of sympathy for the labourer, and with the
_ impossibility of obtaining a universal and permanent improve-
"ment of his condition. Experiments are suggested, but, with
_ the exception of allotments, all appear impracticable. Land
_ ¢an indeed be appropriated to the poor; but from my own
_ observation I fear that the system, as far as the regular farm
re q labourer is concerned, will disappoint its charitable promoters.
: Strictly speaking, the husbandman has but very few leisure
hours. When his daily labour is performed, the renovating
effect of rest is required to prepare him for the continuation of
his duties to his employer. This the allotment system does
not recognise. Were its advocates to calculate the number of -
_ hours that a poor man would require properly to cultivate a
rood of land, I am persuaded that they would be less ardent in
: ‘ ‘their expectation of conferring a material benefit upon him.
No compensation can be offered for constant work at ade-
_ quate wages. But an extended cultivation of flax would pro-
_ vide an abundance of work, and wages would follow as a natu-
_~ ral consequence.
At the close of the last session of Parliament Lord John
_ Russell gave notice of his mtention, at the commencement of
_ the following session, to propose measures ‘for securing to the
7 labourer “ A fair day's wages fora fair day’s work.’ Without
_ doubt his lordship has bestowed much attention upon this im-

q _ portant subject. But, so long as the labour-market remains
nH _ overstocked, I greatly apprehend that his laudable exertions

a q 2

228

will be unavailing. Should the Hon. Member for London be
induced, by the perusal of this letter, to institute further
inquiries into those plans which I advocate for providing em-
ployment through the cultivation of flax, the fattening of cattle
upon native produce, &c. &c., he will discover that they are
eminently calculated to aid his humane designs ; that, under
the improved management, flax, by the preservation of the
seed, is become a double crop—that the seed itself amply repays
—and that whatever the fibre produces above the cost for
labour, is gain.
I remain, &c.,

JoHN WARNES, Jun.
Trimingham, Norfolk, October 24, 1844.

P.S.—I shall have the pleasure of forwarding, for insertion
in your next week’s paper, No. XV. of this series, as a reply
to several applications from various parts of the kingdom,
affected by the drought, for information respecting the most
economical method of keeping cattle through the forthcoming
winter.

—_

No. XV.

Sir,
In offering to the public the 15th number of my series,
I cannot avoid expressing some apprehension that compara-
tively few of the thousands who may read it will be induced to
follow the advice therein contained ; because many of my corre-
spondents and visitors assure me that no sooner do they inti-
mate an intention of adopting my plans than they become ob-
jects of ridicule in their respective neighbourhoods. Such in-
deed was my own fate, when specimens of the cattle-compound
were first exhibited to the North Walsham Farmers’ Club.
Supported, however, by profit, the most powerful of all allies,
I obtained the victory; and now thousands under the same
banner proclaim to the agricultural world that native produce
is preferable to foreign. Until this fundamental principle is

fully recognised by a systematic rejection of foreign, in favour —

229

oe wt native productions, agriculture and home-commerce can
_ never flourish. The prevailing distress is attributed to those

_ legislative enactments which have rendered hopeless the
_ farmer’s attempt to realize a fair profit upon his capital em-
ployed. Although the justice of this opinion must be ac-
_ knowledged; yet, with the present protective duties, and the
united determination of the agricultural body to render the
_ soil subservient to their wants, utter ruin may be averted.
The finger of an all-bountiful Providence points to that soil as

__ congenial to the growth of all the necessaries and many of the

luxuries of life. Our fruitful fields and splendid factories

_ evince the superiority of our tillage, our arts, and our sciences.

Yet, under the specious pretext of cheap food, we find that the
- manufacturing interests are raging after low-prized foreign
corn; and the agricultural, after low-prized wares of every
description ; each party being regardless of the misery around
them, and, at the same time, blind to their own welfare. For
instance, let foreign flour be offered at only Id. per stone less
than that made from English wheat, and our own produce is
driven from the market. Or, let the vender of foreign manu-
factures but offer them at a trifle less than those made at
home, and the preference is immediately given to the former.
Thus the two great bodies of the community, the agricultural
and commercial, flock to the cheapest market, falsely so called :

no reciprocity of interests, nor regard to the claims of an un-

employed population, being recognised by either ; and thus the
labourer who works in the field, and the operative in the city,
are sacrificed.

However great the tide of our exported manufactures
may appear, the streams of home-commerce are, in fact,
infinitely greater. These, flowing through the kingdom in
every direction, would soon swell into rivers, provided the
working classes received wages adequate to their services.
Through them all native productions are raised; they, also,
are the source of our gains, and comprise the main body of con-
-sumers. In proportion as the working classes are paid does
- money flow from the country to the town, and from the town to

the country, to the incalculable benefit of both. If agriculture
and home-commerce be the main pillars of national prosperity,

230

how mistaken must be the policy that aims at reducing the
value of British property to a level with that of foreign states,
and the rate of wages to that of the serf-labour of Russia.
Seldom was there a period when the farmer flourished, but the
tradesman and the labourer participated in his success; and
seldom were the times adverse to agriculture, but that trade
and labour were involved in the depression.

Enumerated in the catalogue of expenses upon land are
several millions a year for foreign oil-cake, foreign manures,
and poor’s-rates ; all of which, I contend, may be obliterated
by appropriating to the growth of flax not more than two acres
of land out of every hundred in cultivation. The greatest
caviller must see that so small a proportion could not prove
a heavy burden, while the good that would accrue to
multitudes ought to silence every objection. It is ob-
vious that the cost for labour in making the cake, and in
preparing the manure alluded to, is defrayed by English
farmers, who are thus placed in the peculiar position of main-
taining two populations; one at home, the other abroad—the
former appearing in “ the catalogue” under the head of “ poor’s-
rates.” Now when it is remembered that 35,000 tons of linseed
would be produced more than ever was imported of oil-
cake in one year, from the small proportions of land in question
—that more herds of cattle could be reared, and fattened by
forming the seed so grown into compound—and that a corre-
sponding increase of manure would be thus obtained,—surely I
shall be excused for observing, that no farmer ought to com-
plain of the corn-bill and the tariff, who, neglecting the re-
sources of his own, in favour of foreign lands, becomes a free-
trade importer of corn and meat in the shape of cake and ma-
nure; for corn raised through the aid of foreign manure
ought certainly to be regarded as the produce of foreign
countries, as much as that which enters our ports through the
payment of a regular duty. And when the inferiority of
foreign oil-cake is taken into account on the one hand, and the
uncertain effects of artificial manures on the other, I trust the
time is not far distant when the agriculturists of this country
will look back with astonishment upon the millions they have
expended in the vain endeavour to acquire wealth through

231

P ‘such means. Again, let it be remembered, that three or four

__ erops are commonly grown in succession from a single dressing

j

j _ of farm-yard manure, while only one can be obtained from an

‘expensive application of chemical fertilizers. Also, that

4 through the contents of the farm-yard, a never-failing crop is

_ produced upon all soils, in most seasons, and under any circum-
stances ; whereas, the good effects, if there be any, of all artifi-
cial manures, depend upon soil, upon seasons, and upon cir-
cumstances. How united, therefore, and determined ought the
a rtscriete of Great Britain to be, in adopting systems that
_ will render them independent of foreigners, who are ever prone

q to offer ungrateful returns for the money lavished upon them,

a a
a
Le

=) -

ae
So

as the following extract from the public prints but too truly
confirms :—

«“ The Belgian Government has just made a serious increase
‘on the duties on British silk and cotton manufactures, and on
machinery imported; and at a meeting of German merchants,
‘on the 7th ulto., at Leipsic, a resolution in favour of spinning
thread by machinery was passed, which object, it is recom-
mended, should be supported by a more careful and extensive
cultivation of flax, an import duty on English thread, and a
bounty on the exportation of linen.”

In my last letter I observed, that the Belgians had become
“rich and powerful through their dealings with us;” but I
might have added, upon their own authority, that, in con-
sequence of those dealings, many villages have swelled into
towns, and cottages into mansions, for their flax-factors. I
did not then anticipate so speedy an opportunity of exempli-

fying the truth of that remark, nor of showing how little

we have to hope from foreign reciprocity. Any lengthened
remarks on the above article are unnecessary, for it must be
obvious to every inquiring mind, that the relaxation of our
restrictive duties has not been followed by the anticipated
results. I will, however, briefly observe, that the merchants

of Germany are extensively engaged in furnishing this country

with flax at a nominal duty; that they obtain great prices
fox the article, and take nothing in exchange but British

232

gold. This flax, spun into thread, they would eject from
their markets, by the imposition of “a serious increase of
duty,” and, in order to consolidate their interests, an indem-
nity is proposed for the losses occasioned by a competition
with our spinners and linen manufacturers. Doubtless, their
objects will ultimately be obtained; therefore, the land-
owners, merchants, manufacturers, and agriculturists of
England ought to unite in promoting an extensive and sys-
tematic cultivation of flax upon the most improved principles,
and thus render themselves for ever independent of German
extortion. ‘The establishment of spinning-mills and flax-fac-
tories on the Continent must effect a complete revolution in
this branch of our trade; for, instead of being supplied with
the raw material, flax would be imported in the shape of
linen, our manufacturers be thrown out of employment, and
thousands be thus added to the already crowded ranks of pau-
perism. That immediate danger is to be apprehended, I do
not venture to predict; but it certainly appears reasonable
that a movement fraught with such important consequences
should be met by counteracting measures.

Five years of practical inquiry into the cultivation of flax,
added to the experience of many growers in Norfolk, Suffolk,
and other counties, fully warrant me in asserting that the
seed alone has generally exceeded the average value of grain
crops. In several instances from twenty to twenty-eight
bushels per acre have been grown; and when I refer to Mr.
Negus, of Cripplesham, in Norfolk, who obtained thirty-two
bushels from one acre, sufficient evidence is, I think, adduced
to prove that, under judicious management, proportionate
crops may be grown in every part of the kingdom. Those
parties who recently applied to me for information respecting
the most economical method of keeping stock, will now per-
ceive that had the advice to grow flax, which I have so con-
stantly promulgated, been followed, the necessity of purchasing
foreign linseed would have been avoided; their parishes, like
Trimingham, been unincumbered with a surplus population ;
and themselves receiving profitable returns for the employ-
ment occasioned through the preparation of the fibre. To
afford the required information in clear and comprehensible

233

terms i is the part that I have engaged to perform. It will be
the business of the inquirer to put it into practice; and then

only will he be brought to believe that results so great can
’ flow from expedients so simple. Had my recommendations
emanated from analytical rather than from practical research,
_ the compound been offered at an enormous profit, and its pro-
perties blazoned by some eminent City chemist, thousands
_ would have flocked to the shrine of Agricultural nostrums,
_ thousands of pounds been offered as a willing sacrifice, and ten
thousand voices engaged in lauding the Seminum Linorum
ee reritiones: The intrinsic merit of the linseed compounds,
like every thing else of real advantage to agriculture, centres
in simplicity. ‘Those who veil their discoveries in mystery for
the sake of gain, or mar their utility by patent rights, too
often injure the cause they profess to support, and seldom reap
_ for themselves more than disappointed vanity.

_ The only apparatus required for the system I recommend
_is a linseed-crusher, an iron copper, a hand-cup, a stirrer, one
or two half-hogsheads, two or three pails, and a wooden ram-
mer. These will cost about 12/.; butif proper cylinders were
attached to mills, as they now are in the neighbourhood of
North Walsham, the machine could be dispensed with, and the
outlay reduced to about 2/. Large coppers are found incon-
venient for stirring when compounds are made with the meal
of peas, beans, &c. The sizes most in use contain from thirty
to forty gallons. Upon large farms it will be
desirable to have two; one smaller than the
other. The stirrer is an iron-ribbed spoon
fastened to a shaft of wood four feet long, and
_ somewhat less than the handle of a pick. The
rammer is three feet long, about five inches square
at the bottom, and two and a half at the top,
through which a pin fourteen inches long is
passed for the convenience of being used with
both hands; mine is nothing more than one end
of a broken axle of a cart, with a stick thrust through the linch-
pin hole. This happened to be at hand when the experiments
were first made upon my premises five years ago, and has been
in use ever since.

234

I commenced winter grazing this year upon white turnips,
grown after flax, the tops of which, being extremely luxuriant,
are cut with pea-straw into chaff, compounded with-linseed
meal, and given to my bullocks according to the following
plan :—Upon every six pails of boiling water, one of finely
crushed linseed meal is sprinkled by the hand of one person,
while another rapidly stirs it round. - In five minutes, the
mucilage being formed, a half-hogshead is placed close to the
copper, and a bushel of the cut turnip-tops and straw put in.
Two or three hand-cupsful of the mucilage are then poured
upon it, and stirred in with a common muck-fork. Another
bushel of the turnip-tops, chaff, &c., is next added, and two or
three cups of the jelly, as before; all of which is then expe-
ditiously stirred and worked together with the fork and ram-
mer. It is afterwards pressed down as firmly as the nature
of the mixture will allow with the latter instrument, which
completes the first layer. Another bushel of the pea-straw,
chaff, &c., is thrown into the tub, the mucilage poured upon it
as before, and so on till the copper is emptied. :
The contents of the tub are lastly smoothed
over with a trowel, covered down, and in two
or three hours the straw, having absorbed the
mucilage, will also, with the turnip-tops, have
become partially cooked. The compound is
then usually given to the cattle, but sometimes
is allowed to remain till cold. The bullocks,
however, prefer it warm; but whether hot or
cold, they devour it with avidity.

The cost for linseed, according to the above rate of feodias(,
is 2s. 3d. per week ; which seed, though grown upon my own
farm, I place to the account of artificial food; and I caleu-
late that in order to obtain the same effect through foreign
oil-cake, the expense per week would be at least one moiety
more.

It will now be seen that the real fattening properties of the
above compound centre in the linseed; and that in order to
produce a greater or less effect it is only necessary to regulate
the quantity of that important ingredient. Also, that wheat,
oat, and barley straw, or bean-stalks, may be used either with

235

without turnip-tops, according to circumstances; nothing
‘more being required than fibrous matter to act as a vehicle for
‘conveying linseed to the stomach of the animal, and for re-
conveying it to the mouth for rumination. Did time and
“space permit, I could easily show how food thus prepared acts
- somuch better than if given in a crude state. Experience,
however, has long since proved that linseed boiled without
being crushed, or given in any way except by intimate incor-
poration with other ingredients, loses so much of its efficacy as
to become an expensive rather than an economical method of
feeding cattle. ‘Therefore, in order to render straw of service
to fat, or yet more so, to lean stock, the quantity of linseed
meal must be regulated. And, where cost is the object of in-
_ quiry, I would observe, that one pound, or five farthings’ worth,
_ of linseed meal per day, given according to my directions,
will be of great advantage to the animals; but if doubled in
_ quantity, the improvement of their condition and efficacy of
___ the manure will repay the extra expense. As a substitute for
2 ee diet will be found equally useful for cart-horses and
: a. col Thus far I have afforded the best information I possess
for meeting the exigencies consequent on the loss of hay. But
where this important crop has been preserved it will, of course,
be desirable to mix some with the straw when making the
compound,
Unfortunately for the extension of my plans, few really prac-
tical agriculturists are disposed’ to promulgate their own
individual success. On this account I refrain from publishing
many interesting and profitable cases. I subjoin, however, an
__ extract from the letter of a gentleman in Essex, with whose
_ enlarged and philanthropic views I have long been acquainted,
and who will rejoice if the simple relation of his own ex-
__ perience should in any way be rendered serviceable to his
country :— :

_ “My flax-crop was pronounced by the Belgian agent, at
___ Ipswich, to be as fine as any he had ever seen. It was nearly
four feet high, very thick in the ground, and perfectly free
from weeds. ‘The expenses for harvesting my crop were under
a one pound per acre. I have laid ten acres in a hovel, and

236

stacked three. For the want of water I was not enabled to
steep any; and shall not now make the attempt till the spring.
My experiments with compound last year were satisfactory. I
am now feeding 14 horses and colts with straw and hay com-
pound. My plan is, to eight bushels of cut hay and eight
bushels of wheat-chaff are added 28 lbs. of crushed linseed
boiled in eighteen pails of water. I give the horses this quan-
tity at night in the yard. In addition, they have one pint of
pea-meal per day, and one hundredweight of straw per week.
The boiling linseed is poured upon the chaff, and both are
thoroughly mixed together. I intend giving my young stock
1} lb. of linseed meal with a bushel of chaff daily ; my cows the
same. I made eight boxes last year; this year I made twelve
more. I shall erect seven more in the spring, which will
enable me to keep all my cattle in boxes, except horses. Every-
body appears pleased with the box-feeding system; and I hope
will ultimately be the same with the flax cause. The country
appears to be awakened to the necessity of doing something for
our now too numerous poor. If you can give me any further .
information for making straw compound I shall be obliged. I

have told you my plan.
“ Yours truly,

* James BARKER.
“ Stour Hall, Ramsey, near Harwich,
October 16th, 1844.”

_ With reference to the exigencies of the present season, I
lately examined the roots, or knotted branches, of the too pro-

lific couch or guetch grass, and am of opinion that if properly
cleansed from mould, it would be found of much service. This
description of grass is often extricated in large quantities from
the soil and burned. But, if it were carefully washed, cattle
would eat it with avidity, particularly if compounded with
linseed. The experiment is to be tried shortly upon my pre-
mises, when the grass in question will be taken out of the land
with a fork, washed, cut into chaff, and incorporated with
linseed and straw. Perhaps others may be induced to rival my
attempt, and to favour the public also with the result of their
experience. Nothing ought to be considered too insignificant

237

_ for inquiry, because the investigation of apparent trifles has
often led to important dideoveriés.

A bushel of good linseed at 5s. 6d., weighing 48 lbs., if pro-
perly formed into compound with three or four times the weight
of bean, pea, or ordinary wheat meal, and a little more than
double the weight of the whole in water, will cost about 2/. 15s.
per ton. The superiority of this economical food to foreign
oil-eake is explained by reverting to the fact, that one, at the
best is merely the refuse of linseed, while the other is made of
the seed itself. The reason why bullocks will fatten upon
cooked more than upon raw food, I must leave the chemical
farmer to explain; but it is certain that linseed meal, given in
a crude state, will scarcely produce half the effect; nor yet if
the ingrediénts were mixed up with cold water, or put into the
copper before the water boiled.

My pigs are fattened upon boiled peas, which I find a more
economical plan than any other. Sheep also thrive well upon
_ them ; and I have no doubt but that cooked beans are equally

adapted to pigs and sheep.

_ Coppers will be found useful appendages to farm premises
for more purposes than I have described, and superior to
any steam apparatus that I have yet seen; a little management
only being required, which will soon be gained by experience.

I must now conclude with the expression of a hope that this
letter will prove an acceptable reply to my numerous corre-
spondents, that farmers will take advantage of those inex-
haustible resources which Providence has placed at their
disposal, and that landlords will co-operate with their tenants,
in rendering them subservient to the wants of the long train of
dependants, who now call upon them for work in vain.

Should Farmers’ Clubs be desirous of bringing these topics
more prominently before their respective counties and neigh-
bourhoods, they will ever find me ready to afford them all the

assistance in my power.
I am, &c.,

Joun WaRNES, Jun,

-P.S.—In your Journal last week, and also in that of the pre-
ceding, I observed two letters, one from Mr. W. P. Taunton,

238

of Ashley, the other from Mr. William Taylor, F.L.S., of
Regent Street, London; to both of which I shall offer a reply, .
through the 16th number of my series, as soon as my numerous
engagements will allow. Inthe mean time, I hope that the
subscribers to your paper, who take an interest in the subject
of those letters, will preserve them, in order that they may si
carefully compared with my reply.

No. XVI.
Sir,

According to my promise I will now proceed to answer
the letters of Mr. Taylor, F.L.S., and of Mr. Taunton, of Ashley,
which appeared in your Journal of the 28th of October last,
and in that of the 4th of the present month.

The latter is a direct attack upon my veracity as an indi-
vidual, the former upon my character in conjunction with the
supporters of the flax cause; for, observes Mr. Taylor, “The
bubble scheme of growing linseed or flax in England is unfor-
tunately exploded, and its former warm supporters would now
blush to examine the representations with which they have
attempted to deceive the public.”

I will, however, first endeavour to remove those erroneous
impressions which Mr. Taunton has not only imbibed himself,
but also desires to implant upon the minds of others; or, why
not have applied to me through the medium of a private
inquiry in the first instance, instead of allowing his doubts to
remain dormant fifteen months before he publicly demanded
answers to his ungenerous and uncourteous interrogations? I
say ungenerous, because they are accompanied by his own
preconceived opinions unsupported by reason or experience!
Uncourteous, because that charity which “ hopeth and believeth
all things,” Mr. Taunton withholds from one whose exer-
tions have long been directed to the advancement of his in-
terests, in common with the rest of the community—with
what success I could easily give you many testimonials. But
on Saturday, the 9th of the present month, in the Corn-

239

Excl ange, at Norwich, more open assurances were expressed
thar I ever heard before, of the successful adoption of my
plans, and of active preparations for the present winter, by the
erection of boxes, boiling-houses, &c.
_ Tt is somewhat remarkable that the letter No. 3, now treated
with so much contempt, is one upon which I bestowed more
pains and expense than upon all the others put together.
Your readers will remember that it was headed by a repre-
sentation of the ground-plan and elevation of my cattle- boxes,
&c., in order that the subjoined explanation might be ren-
dered more comprehensible. It is also remarkable that this
a letter appeared in more Journals than any others of the series ;
- that not less than 40,000 copies were circulated; and that no
- objection ever reached me except the one now under consi-
deration.

____ My letters not being addressed to the superficial, but to the
.. intelligent and thoughtful reader, I should consider the ebul-
lition now before me unworthy of notice, except for the oppor-
tunity it affords of recalling No. 3 to the recollection of the
B pu lic.

Thy age SS

In order to render my replies perfectly comprehensible to
‘the reader, every quotation from Mr. Taunton’s letter is
given in italics, as follows :—

eee |.
=e Deedee

_ * Convinced of the utility of feeding animals in boxes, if such can
be erected at the cost which you are said to have mentioned at a pub-
a aa (80s. per ote Py

eo - Whether the boxes cost thirty pounds or thirty shillings,

a hase utility is the same, except that the lower- priced have the
advantage of being warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
At the public meeting referred to, and at others also, convened

_ by advertisement, pattern boxes, erected according to the plan

_ described, and at the cost of thirty shillings each, were exhi-
bited.

nr « The four boxes of which, in your frontispiece, you give an ele-
vation, are clearly not a representation of any four boxes delineated -

240

on the ground-plan, but another wholly distinct building ; but
whether intended for the same, or for others, those four boxes would,
in my neighbourhood, cost forty pounds, instead of six.”

The four boxes remain precisely in the same state as when
sketched for publication, one side resting upon a wall pre-
viously built for another purpose. In any neighbourhood, or
under any circumstances, the assertion that four such boxes
would cost forty pounds, is not only absurd, but directly at
variance with truth.

“ The four boxes, of which you give the elevation, instead of
being covered with a roof composed of trimmings of hedges and
ditches, are evidently covered with a substantial coat of thatch, which,
in this country, where wheat-straw costs 31. and 3l. 5s. per ton,
would alone absorb nearly or quite all the fund of 30s. per box, —
which you are said to have allotted for the construction of the whole
building.”

Again Mr. Taunton is at variance with truth; for the roofs
in question are composed entirely of trimmings from hedges
and ditches, thatched with about as much straw as is generally
used for wheat-stacks; the value of which, with the trimmings,
I considered ought not to be placed to the account of the boxes;
because such insignificant materials must have been consumed
upon the farm in some other way much less profitable. The
high price of straw around Stockbridge is probably occasioned
by the low state of agriculture. Had my plans been adopted
on the first appearance of No. 3, straw, in Hampshire, would,
by this time, have been far more plentiful and less expensive.
A more pitiable description of the mal-appropriation of land I
never read, than one contained in a letter from an early cor-
respondent in that country; and I question whether Ashley
itself is not in a similar state.

“ You assume that on every farm there is a wall of the barn, or
other wall, of which advantage may be taken, to build the box in
contact with it. But, in every economically built and disposed
farmstead, the wall of the barn is already occupied by stables, calf-
houses, tool- houses, root-sheds, cart-houses, piggeries, and the like.”

241

I merely observed, that, where an advantage could be taken
an unoccupied wall, the cest of the boxes would not exceed
. each; an observation which I now unequivocally repeat.
I will pass over Mr. Taunton’s description of an “ economically
built and disposed farmstead,” with his anxiety to know how
“many poles are required, nid what length and thickness,” to
part one bullock from another, and proceed to touch upon his
2 reiterated complaints.

Tt also appears, to my humble apprehension, that much skill
and ingenious mechanism, and considerable expense, must be applied
to construct cribs that shall move up and down between the posts.
How are they to be suspended? And what force is to raise them to,
and stay them at, any particular elevation at which it may be
_ desired to place them? and what advantage is gained by their
moving up and down, above a crib which should simply stand on the
a ground r.
% i. No supernatural agency is exercised to regulate the action
a of the cribs between the posts; nor has much skill, ingenious
Ts mechanism, or expense been employed. The great moving
. er centres in simplicity, which the carpenter would define
_ by the term radit. This is made by nailing a spline perpendi-
~ eularly in the centre of the outside ends of the crib, and two
others upon each post to receive them, by which means the
crib is moved up and down at pleasure ; the suspending power
i __ being nothing more than two pins thrust through holes in the
____ sides of the splines upon the posts for the crib to rest upon.
| The necessity for rendering the cribs moveable, arises from the
increase of manure in the boxes; a circumstance that Mr.

! 3 Taunton ought not to have overlooked, and that requires no
a further explanation.

4 “ The cribs we use in our farm-yards cannot be built, at least, for
less: than Jifteen or nineteen shillings, which, ag att, would draw
another stiff instalment out of the thirty shillings.”

2 ‘The wood for the cribs, if made of foreign deals, would cost
a =: 9d. each.

4 You do not mention of what wood, or of what size, the poles
R

-

242 “

ought to be, which are to make your sills and ties. I should gladly
learn, also, the length which you altot to each beast, from the erib
backwards.”

The description of wood being perfectly immaterial, and
consisting simply of poles, such as the thinning of plantations,
I left this department of building to the discretion of the car-
penter. The length of the crib backwards is explained by the
circumstance of the boxes being 8} feet square.

“ Have you any provision for carrying off and preserving the
liquid manure, or is that left to soak into a porous soil, as it
will 2”

The excellency of my system consists in retaining all the soil
in the box, which, being absorbed by the litter, is, after two or
three months, removed. $

“ If there be either iron, brick, or stone channels, and pavement to
intercept and conduct it to a reservoir, the poor thirty shillings will
not supply these.”

My boxes are, in fact, small reservoirs or tanks of them-
selves, from which no escape is allowed.

“ The double gates which are to shut in the cattle, must also be
attended with considerable cost.”

On the contrary, they are nothing more than common lift-
gates, in the shape of doors, according to the appearance
of the elevation; and at the cost of about eighteen shillings
per dozen.

“ Ts water given in the same cribs or troughs as the compound ?”

Upon the Rev. Blair Warren’s premises, at Horkesley Hall,
Essex, the cribs have each a partition for water, supplied, I
believe, by a pipe running parallel with the boxes; but to my
cattle water is given in a pail.

«A more detailed and minute estimate of the materials, expense,
and dimensions of the several parts would, doubtless, confer a great
kindness on many farmers.”

243

_ The real cost of the boxes to the tenant, centres in the
_ workman’s wages. With the intrinsic value of the materials
_ he has but little to do, because landlords would readily fur-
__ nish such wood as I describe. But, to the unassisted farmer,
posts, ties, and sills would cost about 9d. or ls. each ; and poles
_ for partitions, gates, and roofs, about 2d. or 3d. a piece. With
, respect to dimensions, I find 8} feet square, independent of the
_ space for the crib and passage, sufficient for bullocks of 40 or
_ 50 stone weight (of 14 Ibs. to the stone). But, for cattle upon
_ a larger scale, a few additional inches might be added; and
then one box would, if required, contain two small bullocks, a
plan that I have seen adopted with advantage. The following
extract from No. 3, re-copied from the Gardener’s Chronicle
of the 9th instant, will, I hope, convince your readers of the
pains that I have taken to render this subject easy and com-

- prehensible, and at the same time preclude all further requi-

7 sitions upon my time and patience, until the experiment has
en fairly tried and found unsuccessful :—

“The description of these buildings is difficult, because,
however clear and explicit, it must convey ideas of magnitude
and intricacy, while neither exists. To make ten boxes, a space
will be required of 90 feet long and 123 feet wide, from the
side most convenient to the passage. Next let the mould,
to the depth of one foot, be excavated from the other part, and

thrown on the side intended for the front, and spread to the

thickness of a foot deep; this will give two feet from the bot-
' tom of the boxes to the surface. A wall of brickwork, four

inches wide and two feet high, is next to be built round the
inside of the part excavated, and intersected at distances of
83 feet. At each angle the brickwork should be about -12
inches square, which will both support the posts and afford
strength and durability. Upon the wall a sill of wood is to be
placed, for which purpose large poles, split or square, are
adapted. The foundation being now complete, posts six feet
long, and the necessary sills and ties, may be placed upon it.
Across the ties the most ordinary poles may be laid to sup-
port a roof composed of the trimmings from hedges and ditches,

and completed with a thatch of straw or rushes. ‘Two gates
R 2

244

must be added to each box, one of which is to move on hinges,
and the other to be secured to the top and bottom sills of the
building, so as to be taken down at pleasure. Presuming that
advantage has been taken of a barn or other walls on farm
premises, the external part is finished. The internal has
merely to be parted off with a few poles between each bullock,
and the passage separated by the cribs, which are to move up
and down between the interior posts which are placed upon the
angles of each box, and support the roof on the passage side.”

Now, Mr. Editor, I will proceed to animadvert upon Mr,
Taylor’s comparison between flax and the Gold of Pleasure,
contained in your Journal of the 28th of October. In so doing,
I must exercise a more than ordinary caution; because an
action was brought against me, in consequence of a former
attempt to convince the “ British Farmer” that no flax could
be obtained from the stalks of the Camilina sativa, or food,
adapted to the fattening of cattle, from the seed.

As, however, my opinion remains unaltered, I will subjoin a
copy of my defence, which, I trust, will answer the double pur-
pose of expressing my sentiments of the attempt to under-
rate the value of the flax crop, and of protecting myself
against a second prosecution: a defence that was exacted
by Mr. Taylor’s solicitor, and which I wrote under the
supposition of its being published in vindication of his
client’s character.

Trimingham, Feb. 13, 1844.
Sor,

«I much regret your not having applied to me for an
explanation relative to my comments on the Gold of Pleasure,
in the first instance, rather than through a solicitor. Most
readily would I have given it; and at the same time haye
exonerated you from any wilful attempt to impose upon the
public.

“The subject was first introduced to me by Mr. Haynes, to ;
whom reference is made, in what I presume to be your circular,

245

which also appeared in the Farmers’ Journal. From Mr.
a _ Haynes I received a polite acknowledgment of his error re-
_ specting the use of the seed to fatten cattle, and the stalks to
_ obtain flax. Struck, however, with the extraordinary fecun-
_ dity of the plant, and supposing that it might be profitably
_ cultivated for other purposes, I determined to give it a fair
trial. Accordingly I had two plots of ground, separated
p Sierely by the drill, sowed with the seed in question; some of
which was taken from amongst my own flax, and some from
a that of my neighbour.

4 _ “When arrived at maturity, one sort proved to be the dwarf
_ Camelina, but was certainly not superior to the other in produce.

_ I inclose a sample for your inspection. Some time since, I, in

_ company with an eminent botanist, searched the Public Library
and the booksellers’ shops at Norwich, for information. I have
now before me one of Mr. Haynes’s printed circulars; also all
the correspondence that appeared in the newspapers, with pri-
vate letters on the subject. Some of the seed has been substi-
tuted for linseed, and placed before two bullocks on my pre-
mises, which they totally reject. I have examined the stalks,
in which I cannot discover a particle of flax; nor was there any
in those that I saw at the Royal Agricultural Society’s Rooms,
Hanover-square, although they were represented as contain-
ing it.
~ “You acknowledge that ‘ The Gold of Pleasure is an annual
plant that grows spontaneously over all Purope, and is culti-
vated in some countries for forage and manure ;” also, through
Messrs. Hind and Son, that it can be purchased at 36s. per
quarter, which, at 56 Ibs. per bushel, is less than a penny per
pound ; but I can obtain it at 32s. per quarter.

“ Under all these circumstances, I cannot withdraw my state-
_ ments as to the price of the seed known by the name of ‘ Gold
of Pleasure,’ its applicability to fatten cattle as a substitute
for linseed, or its superiority to the flax-plant. But I cordially
agree with you as to the productiveness of the seed, and the oil
for lamps, &c. The refuse, I consider, might be used with
advantage, instead of rape-cake for manure, but not as a sub-
stitute for linseed-cake. A moment's reflection will, I think,
convince you of this fact ; for rape-cake is never given to cattle.

246

I beg to refer you to Mr. Skirving, of Walton, who sowed last
year a variety of the Camelina sativa; and to Mr. —_.
Piceadilly.

«In conclusion, allow me to observe,that, when last in Tokalivt,
I made an essay to see you, for the purpose of explaining the
mistake, which I conceived you had made.

“T now disclaim having included you in that plundering as.
ternity to whom I alluded. Indeed, my strictures referred to
such men only as would sell a single seed for a shilling, and.
make ten tons of guano out of one, &c., &ce. Nor, in alluding
to Regent-street, and the Polytechnic, had I any other motive
beyond pointing out to the public the liberty taken with my
pamphlet, and the disappointment that would he experienced.
My constant aim being to advance the interest of agriculture,
regardless of all personal and pecuniary considerations, I trust |
you will acknowledge that I could not have been instigated by
any feelings of animosity against yourself, and that the pro-
ceedings you have instituted against me are, at all events,
premature.

‘“‘ ] remain, Sir, your obedient servant,
“Joun Warnes, Jun. -

“To W. Taylor, Esq., F.LS.”

Mr. Taylor, in his letter now under consideration, observes,
‘“‘[ should scorn to disgrace the columns of a journal so useful
to agriculturists, by false statements or theoretical ones.
On the 16th of March last I planted five acres of the Gold of
Pleasure, and two acres of flax side by side; the soilis the same,
a rich light loam, in high cultivation: with the Gold of Pleasure,
the seed was drilled in, from nine to twelve inches apart, in
rows.” He further observes with respect to the flax planted
by the side of the Gold of Pleasure, that “It was sown at the
same time, on the same kind of soil, and manured and treated
in the same manner.”

Mr. Taylor has omitted to state. the quantity of seed used;
but, from his printed directions for the Gold of Pleasure now
before me, I presume ten pounds per acre; and, as the flax was
“treated in the same manner,” of course ten pounds only of

247

zed per acre were sown; a drop in the ocean compared to
€ mente required!! But whether 10 lbs. or 160, the proper
proportion for the soil and high condition described, were sown,
teniaterial; since the nine and twelve-inch drilled rows
_ sufficiently account for the deficiency on the one hand, and the
_ inferiority of the stalks on the other. That Mr. ‘Taylor, a
_ Fellow of the Linnean Society, an eminent chemist and a
a botanist, should have so little understood the nature and
| ies of the inestimable flax-plant, is a striking illustra-
' of the incompetency of chemists to regulate the operations
of practical farmers.
_ Again, Mr. Taylor observes, “ The land it was erown pon
_ will take several years to bring it to its original state ;’ an
assertion which,. with the soil, manuring, hoeing, and treat-
ment described, is at variance with the experience of flax-
_ growers; and ought, before hazarded, to have been tested by
__asucceeding crop.
Bi ian. attempting to prove too much, Mr. Taylor defeated his
own aim in the first instance ; while, in the second, he is equally
_ unsuccessful; for, as his Gold of Pleasure was harvested in the
last week in July, and the land sown with turnips, so was my
_ flax, and the same field is now producing turnips. Mr. Taylor
adds, “ The Gold of Pleasure may be again sown after the first
crop in July ;” whereas, another field of my own produced a
second crop of flax, which was fed off with horses and sheep, and
is now with wheat. And here I think it right to observe,
that, three years ago, I sowed about four bushels of flax-seed
in the latter end of August, upon two acres of land which had
, failed with turnips, and obtained an excellent crop of green
feed, which was mowed and given to the horses in October and
November following. A striking instance of the rapid growth
and multitudinous properties of this extraordinary plant !!
Mr, Taylor concludes his letter by informing us, that the
«Bubble scheme of growing linseed or flax in England is
unfortunately exploded, and that its former warm supporters
would now blush to examine the misrepresentations with which
they have attempted to deceive the public.” The meaning of
“unfortunately,” 1 do not comprehend ; for the sooner all decep-
tive schemes are frustrated the better. Happily for the

SON SLND teens Maia IF Fmd goa

248

country, the cultivation of flax is supported by many noble-
men and gentlemen, who, formed into societies, aim at re-
lieving the distresses of the poor by providing them with
employment. :

Again, Mr. Taylor errs in accusing the promoters of the flax -
cause of ‘“misrepresentations to deceive the public;” and
displays a wanton hostility to the patriotic motives by which
they are actuated—motives which would secure them from
shame, even should a failure attend their labours. Those only
have cause “to blush” who, in order to advance their private
interests, vilify the disinterested exertions of others.

But I will close this controversy with an invitation to Mr.
Taylor, Mr. Taunton, and all who desire information “on the
cultivation of flax, the fattening of cattle upon native produce,
box-feeding and summer grazing,” to attend the second Annual
Meeting of the National Flax and Agricultural Improvement
Association at Ipswich, on Friday, the 6th of December next ;
when boxes similar to those in question will be exhibited in a
field near the town, with cattle fattened on the compound ;
also, many specimens of native fiax, linen, hand-spun yarn, and
linseed, in the Temperance Hall. Further arrangements
will be made for enabling the Belgian instructor located in
the neighbourhood to afford oral and ocular information
on the various methods of steeping, grassing, and scutching
flax, &c.

A conversational meeting will be held in the Society’s
Rooms, at the Red Lion Inn, Market Hill, on the evening
previous to the exhibition, where I should be delighted to
receive all my correspondents who could conveniently attend.

IT remain, &c.,
Joun WarnEs, Jun.

Trimingham, Norfolk,

Nov. 22nd, 1844.

P.S.—I yesterday inquired of a carpenter, whose main
business consists in making farm-gates, &c., the value of such
wood as I described for cattle-boxes. He replied, that he
had been employed to make them, and would readily undertake
to erect any number at 30s. each. He also observed that

249

ers for sills, ties and posts, could be purchased, according to
ality and length, at from 6d. to 8d. per foot, timber measure,

tis to say, a post six feet long and six inches a would
; a or a shilling.

No. XVI.

_. Tue season for sowing flax and peas being at hand, the
_ 17th Number of my Series will, 1 doubt not, obtain a ready
insertion i in your Journal, as well as in every other professing
_ to advocate the interests of agriculture.

_. My former letters were unavoidably argumentative and
controversial; but as the soundness of my propositions is esta-
blished beyond dispute, and opposition vanquished, I can add
3 to the present address the charm of brevity. Of ultimate
4 _ success: I have ever felt confident. To the Report of the
- National Flax and Agricultural Improvement Association I
refer with unfeigned satisfaction, as a confirmation of all that I
have advanced during the past five years; and as the most im-
_ portant document yet published upon the subject of flax.

q _ I now desire to draw attention to the sowing of flax and
_ peas, because the straw of the latter incorporated with the seed
_ of the former will render the farmer not only independent of
foreign resources to fatten his cattle, but mainly, also, of the
_ precarious and expensive turnip-crop.

_ It will be remembered by those who are conversant with this
_ Series, that my assertions were invariably supported by proof.
_ I will nownarrate the result of the system of grazing upon my
4 . described in No. XV.

_ Purchased, on the 27th of July last, seven eighteen-months
_ old: bullocks, at 62. each, of Mr. Wright, farmer and cattle-
_ dealer, ‘of Great Tudenham, near East Dereham, from which
time till October they were fed on grass and lucern cut into
rr with a small allowance of linseed and grass, or potato
rae flies excluded from the boxes by canvas blinds.
__ From October to the 14th of November the cattle were kept
‘ upon a compound of pea-straw, white turnip tops, and linseed,
_ with as many turnips as they could eat besides; afterwards,

256

Swedes were substituted for white turnips; and instead of the
tops, a small quantity were sliced to form the compound. On
the 30th of December the two smallest bullocks were sold to
Mr. Doughty, butcher, North Walsham, for 24/. 10s.; and on
the 13th of January he purchased three more, at 13/. 13s. each;
leaving the two largest and least fat, which, in the course of
three weeks, will be worth 297. It will be seen that the aver-
age time was six months for every bullock, and the average
sum above the original cost, 7/. 10s.; or, in other words,
realizing 52/. 9s. in six months, for an outlay of 42/. ;—a return
for native produce such as may fearlessly challenge compa-
rison ; and such as ought to stimulate the British farmer to
the cultivation of flax, the fattening of cattle upon native pro-
duce, box-feeding, and summer grazing.

The rate of expense for linseed was 2s. 3d. per week for each
bullock. With respect to turnips and straw no minute estimate
can be formed; but it will be acknowledged that if four acres
of pea-straw were consumed in so short a time, by cattle so few
in number and so small in size, the quantity of turnips eaten
must be very limited.

It is to the grand return for farm produce that I pubes to
direct public attention, whether in the shape of meat, of corn,
or of flax ; and not to trifling calculations, that tend to obscure
rather than to elucidate truth. I repeat, of flax, for, although
my bullocks were fattened upon the seed, the fibre is being

sold at 5s. and 5s. 6d. per stone, amounting to four or five -

pounds per acre, clear of unavoidable expenses, as well as those
occasioned by inexperience. Nor must the rich manure be
forgotten, the efficacy of which surpasses any derived from
other sources.

It may be objected that the case described is a solitary
instance of successful grazing, arising from peculiar circum-
stances. I answer, quite the contrary; for it is only the
continuation of a system long adopted at Trimingham, and
which I have repeatedly laid before the public. One difference,
however, is observable—viz., that, in former accounts, I de-
scribed the profits arising from the use of grain, while now I
relate those derived from straw ; or in other words, I, this year,
sold the peas, and gave the straw to the cattle.

251

‘he stalks of beans are said, by chemists, to be equal to
hay; if so, they are superior to the straw of peas, and may be
d instead. On some soils beans will flourish where neither
‘peas nor turnips can repay; but I have never yet seen the

nd upon which either grew, that would not produce lin-

eA _ this neighbourhood abundant crops are grown on the
"tase of soils; for instance, two acres of newly broken-up
he h land were sown upon the estate of Robert Marsham, Esq.,
nto Strawless, and produced about thirty-eight bushels
4 ‘of ‘excellent seed, 75 stone 12 lbs. of good flax, 5 stone of
a “ordinary, and 4 stone of tow, with a considerable quantity of
a refuse, fit for coarse sacks, ropes, &c. The steward, Mr. Bow-
4 man, gave chief part of the linseed to cattle, and sold the
_ remainder at 7s. 6d. per bushel.
Recently, all the best flax has been disposed of at 5s. per
Stone, and re-sold to Mr. Fisk, twine-spinner, Siderstrand,
‘near Cromer, at 5s. 6d., or at the rate of 441. per ton ; valuing,
therefore, the ordinary flax and tow at half price, and the seed
_ only at 6s. 3d. per bushel, the crop exceeds 16/. per acre. The
full account of expenses I have not received, but estimating
_ them at six or seven pounds per acre, a greater amount of
_ profit, clear of rent, &c., was realized, than can now be obtained
a Som wheat upon the finest land.
_ As flax, therefore, will flourish upon any soils favourable to
_ ro and peas, and as the seed of the former, incorporated
_ with the stalks and straw of the latter, will sustain and fatten
, cattle, independent of turnips and oil-cake, the policy of sowing
such land with flax, beans, and peas, instead of allowing it to
be fallow, must be evident. The straw of grain may possibly
answer the same purpose.
IT am now using a proportion of barley-straw with that of
_ peas, according to the following plan :—To nine or ten pails of
_ water a bushel of Swede turnips, sliced very small, is added ;
_ after having boiled a few minutes, about two pecks of linseed
meal are actively stirred in: the mucilage is formed in about
_ “ five minutes. A hogshead is then placed by the copper, and
one or two skeps of chaff thrown in. Three or four hand-cups
full of jelly and turnips are next poured upon it, which being

252

mixed together with a three-pronged fork, are firmly pressed
down with a small rammer three feet long, and five inches
square at the bottom, with a cross handle at the top. The first
layer completed, a small quantity of the chaff, &c., is put into
the tub as before, till the copper is emptied. The mass, being
covered down a short time, is ready for use.

It is impossible to say exactly what quantity of linseed a
bullock requires, as much depends upon size, the other ingre-
dients intended to form the compound, and the expedition with
which the animal is intended to be fattened: observation and
experience will be the best guides. At the present season of
the year, when scarcely any thing but straw can be had for
store-stock, and of that but a limited allowance, a pound of
linseed-meal a-day mixed with two or three skeps of chaff as
above, will materially advance their condition, promote their
health, and increase the efficacy of their manure. Under every
consideration, the cultivation of a limited quantity of flax must
be attended with profit, without the possibility of loss. New
editions of my pamphlets on these important subjects being re-
quired, I intend to republish them, with this series in a col-
lected form, when all particulars will be minutely described
and illustrated with engravings.

Iam, &c.,

Joun WARNES.
Trimingham, Norfolk,
Jan. 29, 1845.

No. XVIII.
Sir,

In addressing this letter to the public, through the
inedium of your Journal, I feel a degree of satisfaction that I
am unable to express, because the fruit of my labours are,
every day, becoming more and more apparent. A present
reward! heightened by the prospect of future and complete
success! For why should not those benefits now enjoyed by the
village of Trimingham, through the preparation of flax, be

253

ote spf every other parish in the kingdom? And why
| not the whole agricultural community reap the same
ge from the use of linseed, that my numerous corre-
der ike are now deriving? Let it suffice, that, notwithstand-
the inclemency of the season, the poor of my parish are
ee with the addition of ten flax-dressers from the
nt villages; and that no instance of failure has occurred
m n the substitution of native instead of foreign produce to
n cattle, where the system I recommended has been strictly
sah tis)
_ That the cultivation of flax and the use of the seed are gra-
ally and surely gaining ground, there can be no doubt; but
_ the distresses of the poor, and the exigencies of the farmer,
demand a more rapid promulgation. On these accounts re-
_ gardiess of every private consideration, I desire to be confronted
with a public meeting in the metropolis, in order that I may
enforce by argument, and prove by ocular demonstration, that
i fficulties under which the nation labours through the
eta population, might be effectually removed.
Evidently, the two main sources of employment arise from
_ the necessity of food on the one hand, and of raiment on the
other. It is equally clear, that infinitely greater numbers are
q required to provide the latter than to secure the former.
__ Unhappily for the rural population, and for the country at

large, attempts are only made to find employment for the able-
bodied labourer, through the production of food, while the
claims of that far more numerous class, comprised of weaker
hands, are disregarded; but were only half the zeal displayed
to find employment for that class, through the production of
elothing, the market for labour would speedily revive, agri-
culture assume a different aspect, and the cry for employment
neon

_ The various grades of labour are submitted to the ordeal
Ew a public market, which can never be considered in a healthy
_ State unless there is a ready demand for the weak as well as
9 the strong; but it is impossible to create such a demand

E aeret by the introduction of new sources of employment, and

it is impossible to select one more applicable to the case than

: cultivation of flax; because the entire management of the

-

254

crop, from the pulling of the stalks to their preparation for
market, is work peculiarly adapted to the weaker hands.
Thus should we transfer to our own population those benefits
that involve no less a circulation than two or three millions in
the shape of wages, and this, too, amongst that portion of the
working classes whose services are not required to till the land.

‘Some idea may be formed ofthe direct benefits that would be
conferred by the distribution of so much money; but no estimate
can be formed of the indirect advantages to trade, to manufac-
tures, and to agriculture—because, as Mr. Burn observes,
in his valuable letters on ‘‘ Population and Emigration ”—

«The poor would buy more agricultural produce, thus offer-
ing a better market for the farmers. They would also pur-
chase more clothes, thus equally benefiting the manufacturer.
Being better fed, they could do more for their employers; and
being more constantly occupied, would have less inducement
or leisure to commit crimes ; and, consequently, be more valu-
able members of society. They, and all around them, would
be happier comparatively, and more contented. The farmer,
having a better and more constant market for his produce,
could better afford to pay his rent. The manufacturer, hav-
ing a more constant demand for his goods, could better afford
to pay, and keep alarger number of hands constantly employed.
The landlord would have less to deduct for poor-rates, and
receive, in consequence, a larger income.” * * * * “In
our native land every experiment may be safely tried to im-
prove it. Nature points out the course, and it is a viola-
tion of her laws to retard it.” This able writer further ob-
serves, “Food is wealth. Population is wealth. Since the
manna fell from Heaven in the Wilderness, food has been the
produce of man’s labour. It invariably follows cultivation,
find in sufficient abundance for the wants of men. Some parties
then must be encouraged to cultivate the earth; and surely
it is obvious policy to pay home-cultivators rather than foreign.”

Mr. Burn’s arguments in favour of providing food from our
own resources, are enforced with a solidity of reasoning rarely
to be met with. I refer to them because they are equally ap-

| ae

255

cable to the production of clothing through native rather
ian foreign cultivators. “Men,” he adds, “are not surely
mned to one species of labour that will not maintain a
ish existence, to the exclusion of another that ensures
. It is the business of the rich to find out new sources
‘ papeymet for men at all times willing, and now more than
“ever anxious, to provide food for themselves and families.”

In my former writings I have shown, from Parliamentary
turns, and from other documents, that five or six millions
. annually sent out of this country for the purchase of flax,

_I have shown that flax is a highly prolific crop, and, under
ae B fhe new system of management, improves the soil; that it
_ affords more varied and permanent occupation than any other
Ba sahuction of the earth; and that the most ordinary land in
a the kingdom is capable of producing it.
I have shown that the appropriation of one acre to every
4 hundred now in cultivation, to the growth of this important
_ plant, would employ the redundant rural and manufacturing
population of this country; and produce in one year more
- than double the weight of seed to fatten cattle, that was ever
tee of oil-cake in the same period.
__ LT have also shown that the genius of the people i is suited to
thee management of flax; and the wealthy spinners of England,
_ of Scotland, and of Ireland, are anxious to purchase our crops ;
and, as a further confirmation, I refer to the first annual re-
| a= of the National Flax and Agricultural Improvement
a =
The appropriation of land to the growth of flax with the
a view of finding employment for the poor, must necessarily be
_ inereased in parishes where idle hands abound the most. In
' such, two, or possibly three acres in every hundred would be
; ie etn others might be exempt altogether. Still it
_ would be found that, on the average, were one acre to a hun-
dred sown, the redundant population would not be sufficient
_ to prepare the crops for market; and the supply of flax
F lebd linseed would be inadequate to the increasing demands of
the manufacturers and graziers of this country.

256

A wide field, therefore, is open for the employment of British
eapital, and for the exercise of British skill; which, the in-
quirer will discover, must be attended with the certainty of
gain, without the possibility of loss. For instance, St. Faith's,
distant three miles from Norwich, has, for years, been burdened
with a population for which no permanent employment could
be found. Last year, two or three farmers of that parish grew
small quantities of flax, upon which ten or twelve of the most
active paupers are, at the present time, being taught the art
of hand-scutching, and will soon become expert. This year,
all the farmers have agreed to grow flax proportionate to their
occupations, in order that the poor may, in future, be offered
employment instead of the bread of idleness.

For the same reasonable and benevolent object, J fi Bul-
len is now teaching the inmates of the Union Workhouse at
Stradbroke, in Suffolk, to dress flax. Thus, attempts are being
made to prevent pauperism, and to turn the redundant poor
to a profitable account. From these measures no loss ean pos-
sibly accrue; for the labour of the pauper, and the cost of his
maintenance, were lost before. All, therefore, that he produces
at market, is gain.

Were it necessary to cultivate waste-lands for the employ-
ment of the people, an additional argument might be raised
in favour of flax; because the plant will flourish and produce
much valuable linseed upon ground newly broken up, as I
showed in my last letter. But I now wish to direct attention
to soils most ungenial to the growth of turnips, and which
would be greatly improved by the cultivation of flax, both as
respects the following crops of wheat, and the diffusion of
manure from cattle fattened upon the seed.

In the course of my travels, I have seen many thousand
acres lying fallow, and imperfectly tilled, mainly through a
deficiency of manure. The farmers, being unable to grow tur-
nips, could obtain but little in winter; and, for the want of
box-feeding, still less in summer. But were the culture of flax
judiciously introduced, with a proportionate quantity of peas
or beans, upon the farms to which I allude, and the crops ap-
propriated to rearing and fattening of cattle, manure would
be abundant, and the farmer obtain an ample return in the

257.
e of meat, of butter, and of wool. He would also be placed
an equality with the best turnip districts in the kingdom,
at of growing greater crops of corn ;, because,
s can accomplish so much for sand, doubtless the seed
x will do more for clay.
> value of the stalks beyond that of litter depends upon
anagement; of which, the farmer being ignorant, it would be
cessary at first to obtain instructors, when that part of the
) will be found not the least important. My present object
to show that the seed alone remunerates. Common sense
ulated by the claims of an unemployed population, will
devise the proper method of disposing of the fibre. An
telligent correspondent observes, “I am desirous to afford
tenants and neighbours every information which may tend
improve the system they now pursue, being convinced that
s only by an increase of home produce that farmers can
> to surmount the difficulties under which they are at pre-
labouring.”
m ilar opinions and sentiments are <daay forwarded to me
. every part of the kingdom. ‘They are in perfect accord-
ance with my own, but home produce can only be profitably
increased from our own resources ; and to what expedient can
we resort, except to the introduction of a crop that will provide
od for our cattle, manure for our land, and yi 99 er 8 for
ie? ,
Iwas present at the dinner of the Agricultural Protective
tion in London, and listened with attention to the can-
and eloquent, yet powerless, speeches, delivered upon that
oceasion—powerless, because they contained no proposition
_ ' ameliorating the condition of those classes that comprise
h iad mass of idle hands; a mass, however, for which the
vague profess much sympathy, and assert that the manufac-
ers He employ with a free trade in corn—an assertion
ich, however delusive, carries weight, because the poor, like
invalid at the last extremity, will submit to the nostrums of
quack rather than relinquish hope.
Could Government be induced to retrace its steps with
et to the Canada Bill, the Corn Laws, and the Tariff,
n then the population in agricultural districts would be re-
s

RRM

258

dundant. For although field-labour might be increased, yet,
under our present system of farming, it is impossible that the
culture of wheat, of barley, and of turnips, should provide
employment for the great majority comprised of weaker hands.

But were flax added to the rotation of crops, the landlord
and tenant could so regulate the demand for labour as not only
to meet the requirements of the rural, but of the surplus manu-
facturing population also. Five years ago I advanced the
same theory. I now venture to enforce it with a confidence
resulting from experience.

It will be necessary to form district societies, based upon the
principles, and regulated by the rules of the National Flax
and Agricultural Improvement Association, by which means
information would be disseminated, success ensured, and the
defeat of Cobden, with his party, rendered certain.

At the present time the value of flax and linseed is daily
rising at market, affording remuneration to the grower, while
corn and meat, on the contrary, can only be produced at a
ruinous price to the farmer ; an argument sufficiently strong in
favour of the cultivation of flax and the fattening of cattle
upon the seed, independent of all other considerations, and
which, I am sure, will induce many of my correspondents at
least to try the following experiments :— :

Let four or six acres of land, intended for turnips, be equally
divided, manured, and treated in every other respect alike ;
one half to be sown with turnips; the other with linseed and
peas, or beans:. The result will prove that more animal food
and greater, fattening properties will be obtained from the
average of soils and of seasons than if the whole had been ap-
propriated to turnips, leaving the flax-stalks for purposes
above described. The discerning landlord and intelligent
tenant, in calculating the risk, will perceive the prospect. of
gain, without the possibility of loss.

In conclusion, allow me to repeat my readiness to attend any
public meeting in London, convened for a thorough investiga-
tion of the subject, where agriculturists, experienced and inter-
ested in the growth of flax, with parties desirous of purchasing
the crops, could be assembled. At the same time model
boxes and specimens of the cattle-compound shall be exhi-

259

3 also native flax and linseed from almost every variety
» compared with foreign samples, in order to prove,
tibly, that the soil and climate of this country are
nial to the plant, and that its culture must confer in-
able benefits upon every class of the community. The
diency of forming district associations, for limited periods,
1 then be discussed, and regulations made, according to

> subjoined extract from the National Circular :—
caaatinr

ing That the existence of the Society be Miia io to four
‘That auxiliary branches be established throughout the
: That instruction on the most improved mode of
4 onsen the cultivation and preparation of flax, the new
system of grazing with compound, summer-feeding in boxes,
&c., &e., be speedily and effectually disseminated, by the
location of experienced labourers for a few months where
eded, in exchange for others to be taught on farms from
those labourers were sent, that while some were com-
ficating others might be receiving instruction; the wages
of these men to be paid by their enieph yao; and the cost of
r journeys: by the Society. That an interchange of visits
be ‘promoted between intelligent agricuiturists of different
_ counties, and gentlemen of leisure and patriotism, whose
services in attending public meetings, and in conferring with
interested parties, would be of the utmost importance. That
onomy, expedition, zeal, and perseverance be the distinguish-

features of the Society’s proceedings, and that no expen-
ture of time or funds upon yearly entertainments, or any-
i 2 naneeint to sas direct object, be allowed.”

E I am, &c.,
ee Joun Warns, Jun.
~ Trimingham, Norfolk,

Feb. 19th, 1845.

No. XIX.

' Tue serious reduction of farm produce, and the alarm-
Be tecyee for the future, render it incumbent on all who are

sok hs ke

260

interested in the management of the soil, to unite in counter-
acting the impending evil. ‘In union is strength.’ Com-
prised in the agricultural community is a power, which during
years of unparalleled difficulties, the world was not able, either
by force or treachery, to subdue; but which, under the pre-
sent emergency, is overawed by the machinations of a compa-
rative handful of cotton-spinners. This power can no longer
lie dormant. It must be roused from the sleep of apathy, into
life and action, or it will soon be too late. Destruction, in
the garb of Free Trade, is at our very doors. But, unlike their
clamorous opponents, who vainly compass sea: and land to find
a remedy for our national distress, the landowners, agricul-
turists, and friends of home commerce must hold fast the bar
of protection, and be guided by the finger of an all-bountiful —
Creator, which invariably points to our own soil whence the
remedy can alone be derived-—to a soil that abounds in other
resources besides turnips, grass, and corn, of which the most ‘
important, at the present crisis, is the flax-crop; because, if
cultivated to the extent required by our spinning-mills for the
fibre, and by our agriculturists for the seed as a substitute for
oil-cake, it would afford employment to the redundant and
rural cotton-manufacturing population of the whole kingdom,
and at once put a stop tothe cry for employment, and the rage
for Free Trade.

I have shown, in my former writings, some astounding facts
relative to the value of fiax and linseed; one of which is, that
500,009 acres are required to supply the demand of this
country alone. Now, when we consider how inadequately the
soil remunerates under our present system, and the consequent *
depression of trade, it must surely be acknowledged that the
appropriation of such an immense breadth of land to the growth
of this prolific plant, would be attended with the most bene-
ficial results throughout the kingdom. For instance, the
average value of 500,000 acres of flax, independent of the seed,
oil, and cake, exceeds six millions of money.

This enormous sum is annually sent out of England, to pur-
chase foreign flax of foreign farmers, to the encouragement of
foreign agriculture. Suppose the corn crops sent to market
were less than usual, by 500,000 acres, the price must neces-

261

sarily rise, and as much, if not more money, would be obtained
‘the small as for the large supply, and consequently the
le amount of the 500,000 acres of flax would be returned a
ear profit to the grower, while the linseed alone would not
unt to less than two or three millions. ‘lhe whole of this
ad would, according to the new system of grazing, be con-
ed on the farms where grown, and the necessity of import-
pietele ton of oil-cake be obviated. Also, instead of im-
‘ing corn and meat in the shape of cake, we should export
000 acres of flax; and thus, about nine millions would be
led to the home circulation, and expended in the advance-
ent of agriculture, the renovation of trade, and the employ-
imi of the people.
_ But the substitution of one acre in twenty-five of the turnip
as and the appropriation of less than half the land that would
herwise lie fallow, to the growth of flax, would render the
ipplanting of corn unnecessary, and confer upon the nation
benefits which could not fail to realise the hopes of every
friend to humanity.
The scheme undoubtedly appears chimerical to many, but it
: Sa to be remembered that mankind is generally more hasty
_ in condemning new theories than anxious to ascertain whether
those theories are founded upon sound principles. Thus did
the substitution of cattle-compound for foreign oil-cake
Fiero the ordeal of a vehement opposition; but now, the
4 -opposers have become its most zealous advocates; and I ven-
ture to predict that similar results will attend the cultivation
of flax. In truth, many agriculturists, in various parts of the
kingdom, who formerly expended hundreds in the purchase of
foreign oil-cake, do not now spend as many pence. This sim-
le fact speaks strongly in favour of home-grown and home-
nade cattle-food; but volumes would be required to describe
the indirect advantages which must inevitably accrue to agri-
ilture and to the nation, would every farmer reject entirely
the use of foreign cake in favour of the produce of his own

_ The whole process connected with the growth and prepa-
Hidéion of the flax crop to the farmer, is far more simple than
writers in general would lead us to suppose. My own expe-

262

rience, for the last five years, often causes me to suspect that —

the elaborate descriptions in books were intended rather to
deter, than to encourage, an extended culture of this a
plant in England.

The wily Dutch were certainly the first to promulgate the
notion that it was impossible to obtain both fibre and seed at
the same time; a notion which, however absurd, regulated
the practice of England, Scotland, and Ireland, till the year
1841; many asserting that the steeping of the stalks with the
seed, tended to improve the quality of flax; which is now
found to be an erroneous opinion, because flax itself con-
tains oleaginous matter that requires extraction instead of
addition.

Moreover, the necessary ploughing and harrowing were sup-
posed to be monster-operations, totally beyond the abilities of
British farmers: but, when our Belgian instructor landed in
England, he was surprised at the garden-like appearance of
our farms; and, on his arrival in Norfolk, exclaimed, “ Your
lands are already fit for sowing !”

Singular as it may appear, a movement, in the above-named
year, accidentally simultaneous, took place in the north of Ire-
land, and at Trimingham, in Norfolk, to break through pre-
judices, founded solely upon ignorance and idleness. Industry,
aided by the dictates of common sense, prevailed. For it is
recorded in the Report of the Flax Improvement Society of
Ireland, that from sixty to eighty thousand pounds’ worth of
seed was saved last year, without injury to the fibre; and it is
calculated that, in the course of a year or two, no flax will be
steeped with the bolls, thus adding to the wealth of that coun-
try no less than 300,000/. yearly, according to the present ex-
tent of culture: while in Norfolk no flax has been grown
without an ample return of seed, as appears in the Report of
the National Flax and Agricultural Improvement Association.

The entire management of flax, from the preparation of the
land for sowing, through every stage, is, I repeat, work suit-
able to the commonest capacities. No apprenticeship is re-
‘quired; for, by the assistance of one experienced youth of 18,
very many can be taught at once all the mysteries of harvest-
ing, grassing, and seutching the crop for market. Through

- 263

tl i opens more knowledge would be disseminated than could
: ol d from a multitude of written descriptions. And,
th nT shall endeavour, from time to time, to afford inform-
ion with my pen, I strongly advise the formation of local
eties to defray the expenses consequent upon instruction ;
ch, once obtained, the fear of trouble, risk, and loss, would
rge in the happy possession of those benefits that were un-
tainable through any other source.
_-Except for the manufacture of cambric and fine lawn, flax
zasy of culture. It will grow upon any soil, flourish in any
Tiioate, and ensure success to every grower who manures his
and tills it well.
After the seed has been sown, no more care is required than
usually paid to other crops, till the time of harvest, when,
instead of being mowed, it is pulled up by the roots, partially
weathered, tied into sheaves, and stacked like wheat. This is a
ife and common practice, though there are some variations,
h I shall hereafter particularize. My present object is,
first, to offer directions for—
-Preparine tare Lanp, than which nothing can be more
_ simple; for, if the field destined for flax has been ploughed
_ the full depth, previous to the frost, it will only be necessary
_ to reduce the surface to a garden-like state, by harrowing, sca-
_ rifying, and rolling ; it being seatrecly possible to render the
land too fine.
In order to ensure a first-rate crop, it will be necessary,
‘during the above process, to sow six or eight bushels per acre
of bone-dust, and about two ewt. of real guano, by which means
they will be intimately mixed with the soil; or, if bone-dust
cannot be had, the guano might be increased to three or four
‘ewt. per acre. But about eight loads of good farm-yard ma-
__ nure, well decomposed and mixed with mould, is much to be
_ preferred. Where land is in a previously rich state, less ma-
__nure will, of course, be required; but if it has only been
_+ slightly ploughed, a repetition will be necessary, as well as of
the scarifying, &e. Small pieces of grass and roots of weeds
ae left by the harrows should be gathered up, and a light roll
_ drawn over the land before.
- Sowine tHE Seep, in order that it may fall upon an even

264

surface. Linseed is generally sown by hand; but this process
is best performed by such machines as are used for grass seeds.
Some prefer depositing the seed by a drill set at intervals of
about seven inches: a practice I at first adopted, but now dis-
continue in favour of the broad-cast system, because the stalks
will grow to a greater length, and be more equal in size; nor
is my land infested with any noxious weeds to render hoeing
necessary. Where the seed is sown by the hand, the machine
or the drill, it must not be deposited deep. Half, or one ineh,
in damp weather, and one and a half in dry, ought not to be
exceeded. .

If seed and coarse flax are the aim, six pecks an aere will
be sufficient; but if fine flax and seed, eight, ten, or twelve
pecks will be necessary.. It will be found in general that the
greatest quantity will produce the most valuable fibre, but
_ the least seed.

A sandy does not require so much seed as a heavy soil; but
the inexperienced will find the most profitable crop to be that
grown from six to eight pecks. Observe, if the drill is used,
the creases should be filled up with a bush; but if the seed
is sown broad-cast, fine light harrows must be used. An extra
turn or two, therefore, with the harrows, the roll, and the
scarifier beyond the requirements for barley, will be sufficient.
It will also be found that, where the soil has been well pre-
pared and cleaned, the cost for weeding flax will be very
trifling ; because, when the land is rich, the plants spring up
with astonishing rapidity, and quickly overtop the small
weeds. It is necessary, however, to remove the larger, but
much injury is often done in the attempt to eradicate the
smaller.

The first week of March to the middle of April is the best
time for sowing; if deferred two or three weeks longer, the
stalks will, in most cases, be short and of little value, though
the produce of seed per acre may equal the early sown.

The editor of the ‘ Farmer’s Herald’ observes that—

« The recent establishment of societies in Ireland, as well
as in several parts of England, for promoting the growth of
flax, leads most naturally to the consideration, how far the ma-

265

e of cotton may be replaced by that of linen. * * * *
may sslneivaly be as cheaply grown here, as cotton may be
1: and if the manufacture of it is not more costly,
‘may not British skill and enterprise be exerted to supply
orld with a fabric more beautiful, more durable, and there-
> more desirable, than cotton? The more a nation can
2 of those articles which the world requires, the more
that nation will by consequence become: now, could
erow cotton, as well as manufacture it, we should be richer
by all those vast sums paid every year for the raw material.”
ae
It is certain that flax can be grown in this country to any
: q ‘ent, and’that it must ever be the interest of the owners and
“occupiers of the soil to supply the demand; thus enabling
our manufacturers to compete with the cotton trade, and
- rendering them real, instead of nominal exporters of linen.
ing-mills would be erected in every populous district,
-loom weavers find ample employment, markets be opened
to the farmer for the sale of flax, and the suffering poor be
emancipated through the multitudinous occupations arising
from the inestimable flax-plant. Nor let it be supposed that
_ lindulge in empty theories: for flax cannot, like cotton, be
; woven by the power-loom, and the erection of spinning-mills
_ in one populous and distressed locality is already in contem-
3 plation ; ; particulars of which, with recent accounts of profits
: derived from the growth of flax in this neighbourhood, I hope
shortly to have an opportunity of communicating.
Rabi ih £3. 2) I remain, yours, &c.,
Joun Warnes, Jun.

Bo No. XX. .
Bi Sir,

4 “sis _ In offering to the public the 20th and last number of
_ this series, I feel a degree of confidence that experience, and

an intimate knowledge of my theme, alone can justify.

266

Throughout my pamphlets, and innumerable letters both
public and private, I endeavoured to show that the soil: of
Great Britain possessed resources adequate to the wants of
the population ; and that the flax-crop was to be the medium
of developing those resources. A.s yet, no one has successfully
refuted my theory or disproved my statements. The last
attempt was made by Mr. Cobden in the House of Commons,
whose observations, upon that occasion, were weak and incon-
sistent, a mere echo of the Anti-Corn-Law League. But flax,
instead of being rejected as worthless, is now cultivated more
systematically in Norfolk and Suffolk than heretofore ; and, if
I may judge from an extensive correspondence, will be grown
this year in every county of England; also in Scotland, North
and South Wales, Jersey, St. Agnes, &c.

The congeniality of our climate to the growth of flax, the
non-exhausting effects of the crop, the extraordinary produce
of seed per acre, and value as cattle-food, the profits derived,
and the fund of employment afforded, are facts of more weight
in favour of the flax cause than a multitude of arguments, and
prove incontestably the soundness of my advocacy. Of these
facts Mr. Cobden was, or ought to have been, aware, when he
introduced to the notice of Parliament the Report of the Na-
tional Flax and Agricultural Improvement Association, for
they were recorded in the report itself.

That “ most deadly weapon, furnished to the lectuters of the
Anti-Corn-Law League,” to which Mr. Cobden alluded, was
first wielded against landowners, in a paragraph published by
the League in the Manchester Guardian of the 9th of October
last, and which I successfully encountered in No, 14 of my
series. Mr. Cobden’s arguments being couched in the same
terms, and implying precisely the same questions, are as easily
refuted, which the inquirer will perceive by the following
extract :—

“Ist. How can the English grower afford to sell flax for
the same price at which the foreigner imports it, free of duty,
at less cost for labour, and unburdened by a national debt,
poor, highway, and county rates ?

« 2ndly. Why cannot the English grower afford to sell wheat

267

the same price at which the foreigner imports it, free of
PIAS SEED
heaped that the quantity of flax grown in this country is
1 beneath the demand that the foreign farmer or specu-
Stine our necessities, is able to charge so high a price
aa British grower can readily accept the same terms,
) burdened with all those disadvantages from which
t ner is exempt.
aM Be cossitxins preponderated in favour of British
tie: during the war, Government removed the restrictive
. The foreigner then inundated us with flax, obtained
cendancy, exercised ever after an arbitrary control over
z jinx! market, and compelled our manufacturers to pay for
: = raw material, not, as the League asserted, ‘about 43s.
only,’ but about 140s. per cwt.; or, instead of 43/. per ton,
“bon while the Belgian farmers in particular realized from
Ps 20 501. per acre for what they significantly term their
“golden crop.’ A serious warning of what may be expected
3 sets duty on foreign wheat shall be a penny a quarter!
wt will now appear evident to the most common understand-
“in, that, should we become as dependent upon foreign nations
_ for bread as we now are for flax, English wheat must inevitably
‘share the fate of English flax. Land would be thrown out of
_ cultivation; the foreigner obtain the command of price; and
A growers of wheat, like the few growers of flax, would ©
| _ a profit.” :

. sa. copy of this letter was forwarded to the editor of the
above-named paper, of which, for obvious reasons, no notice
was taken; nor do I expect that the “lecturers of the Anti-
~ orn-Law League,” or even Mr. Cobden himself, will venture
. _areply. In truth, if the English farmer needed a weapon
against free trade, Mr. Cobden has supplied him with one in
the above comparison between the importation of flax and that
-of wheat.

Fite is, undoubtedly, the especial province of the Legislature
diligently to enquire into the latent resources of the country,
0 render them subservient to the wants of the people,
to uphold and protect the working classes, and to provide

268

them with every legitimate means of subsistence; but never
till the present period was a member in the House of Com-
mons heard to revile British landowners for attempting to
advance the best interests of the nation, and to a ~
condition of the poor.

.
- coins Saal

Mr. Cobden’s attack upon the National Report was ohipheud

to every principle of patriotism, and contrary to sound political
knowledge —a report fraught with information of the highest
importance to the state, holding out the prospect of “employ-
ment for the redundant population,” and “a remedy for the
distresses of the people’—a report “submitted to the ordeal
of the strictest scrutiny,” and which, if introduced to the notice
of Government at all, should have been accompanied with a
recommendation to serious attention—a report, the accuracy
of which, if Mr. Cobden doubted, he ought to have instituted
the inquiry challenged, when he would have discovered that
the growth of linseed, with box-feeding and summer-grazing,
was a far better method of promoting the “welfare of the
farmers of Wales, of Scotland, and of Wiltshire,” than that of
“importing foreign beans, peas, and oats to fatten their cattle ;”
also, that a judicious and systematic introduction of the flax
crop would remove from the rural and manufacturing districts
all distress consequent upon the want of employment and of
adequate wages, because the demand for work would be sup-
plied, the labour-market cleared, and remunerative wages
insured. But the League are too well informed upon these
subjects to risk a discussion that would end in the overthrow
of their favourite scheme of ruining the landed interests of the
country.

The original and chief pretext for free trade was the im-
provement of the condition of the redundant population, which
the manufacturers averred could only be secured by an inter-
change between British manufactures and cheap foreign bread.
But, no sooner were flax associations formed with the view of
providing employment for the people, and cheap provisions
from native resources, than the promoters were unjustly and

illiberally attacked by the Anti-Corn-Law League. I say

unjustly, because the League attribute to the supporters of —

the flax cause an intention of increasing the price of wheat,

269

f lessening the means of subsistence ; illiberally, because,
eir strictures upon our proceedings, they studiously avoid
the explanation of our real designs—designs such as every
patriot and philanthropist must review with delight; but such
is our cold-hearted and misanthropic opponents perseveringly
‘epresent.

r ¥ ac ancaiehies delivered at our various meetings all evince
the kindliest sympathy for the distresses of the poor, and a
desire to promote the culture of flax for the double purpose
oviding employment, and of introducing not only cheap
id, but cheap meat into their cottages.
ly visits to Sussex, that appear to have given Mr. Cobden
much offence, were undertaken with exclusive reference to
e above objects ; and the happiest results have followed.
I should rejoice if similar opportunities were afforded me in
_ Lancashire, where I doubt not that my services would be
ually beneficial, and that the operatives of Manchester would
on be supplied with cheap i from the resources of
eir own county.
| But I should esteem it a higher gratification could Mr.

Cobden be induced to visit Trimingham, and personally to
investigate the effect of those measures which he so incautiously
_ ventured to ridicule; measures that, notwithstanding the
, of those who have devoted to the subject fewer minutes
4 than I have years, would, if universally adopted, prove the
2 for the distress both of the rural and cwnerriaeaid

Me. Cobden and his adherents, though indirectly, have not
been the least amongst my coadjutors; because the effect of
their proceedings compels many agriculturists to turn their
attention to the cultivation of flax, which, under a remunera-
ve price for corn, they would for ever have rejected. There-
fore, should the schemes of the League ultimately prove
iecessful, the British farmer, sooner than allow his fields to
e waste, will appropriate them to the growth of flax; and,
h labourers fed upon cheap foreign provisions, be enalieel
produce the raw material at a price successfully to com-
pete even with cotton. Thus would free trade be as fatal

270

to the manufacturers of that article as to the piapeb of
corn,

We hear of no objection to the growth of flax except from
cotton manufacturers, who are perpetually exclaiming, “ We
cannot eat flax ;” while flax-spinners in particular, and all who
are conversant with the real properties of the crop, recommend
and encourage its culture. Both parties are zealous advocates
for free trade. The cotton-spinner, however, foreseeing the
injurious effect that a supply of cheap linen would have upon
calico, endeavours to mislead the public with respect to the object
of the patriotic promoters ofthe flax cause. He also aims at the
removal of restrictive duties upon corn, regardless of throwing a
large proportion of our fields out of cultivation, and of our
rural population out of work. .

But the flax-spinner, on the contrary, offers, as some com-
pensation for free trade, the circulation of that capital at home
which he now sends abroad for the purchase of flax; a circu-
lation in which is involved five or six millions every year—the
employment of all descriptions of idle hands—and the ~~,
of poor-rates.

Under these circumstances, it behoves both landlord and
tenant to become thoroughly acquainted with this important
subject, remembering, “that flax is a double crop; that the
seed alone remunerates ; and nt whatever the fibre produces
above the cost for labour, is gain.”

It will be found that the want of instruction in the proper
management of the fibre, is the only real hindrance to success.
Even in this neighbourhood we have something to learn, par-
ticularly with respect to steeping and grassing. I have there-
fore engaged an instructor from Belgium, versed in all those
modern improvements which have rendered that country so
famous for the production of the most valuable flax. My agree-
ment with the foreigner has especial reference to the teaching
of English youths; and I take this opportunity of observing,
that young active labourers of good character, from any part
of the kingdom, may be sent immediately to Trimingham to
acquire a knowledge of the business.

In the course of three or four months they will return com-

271

‘petent to teach others, and be the means. of disseminating
information in the only effectual way; for, though every pro-
; is simple, and easy of attainment, written explanations
_ cannot obviate the necessity of practical illustration.
2 he only expenses incurred will be for travelling and main-
tenance, which for each pupil cannot exceed 10/.; a sum insig-
_ nificant compared to the benefit derived: because 10/. may be
either lost or saved in the preparation of only one acre of good
flax. Thissum might be raised by agricultural societies, or by a
_ union of parties interested in the growth of the plant, at 6d. or
: _ Is. a week each for the time proposed. I mention these particu-
_ larsin order toshow by what simple means great objects may be
ey ~ accomplished ; and I trust that the arrangement will be accept-
_ able to all my correspondents who can conveniently avail
3 themselves of it, or to others who may have been induced to
sow flax at my instigation.
___ If the Irish, who have been growers of flax from time imme-
4 morial, found it desirable to form societies, and to introduce
Belgians to improve their system of management, how much
more necessary must it be for those districts to adopt similar
_ plans, where flax was never grown before. The finest crops, if
_ not properly handled, will fail to remunerate; but if treated
according to the Belgian system, no farm produce, at the pre-
sent period, repays so well. For instance, since the publication
_ of the Report of the National Flax Association, Mr. Smith, of
_ Gunton, sold to the Messrs. Marshall, of Leeds, the produce of
f p two acres of flax, which, with the seed, amounted to 487. Mr.
Barcham, of Antingham, disposed of 60 stone of 14lbs., and of
_ about 20 bushels of seed grown upon one acre. Many similarly
. = productive crops have been sold in Norfolk and Suffolk ; but
not being in possession of accurate returns, I cannot at present
record them. It is, however, worthy of observation, that the
3 price of the best Norfolk wheat is now only 22s. 6d. per coomb,
_ while that of sowing linseed is 49s.; also, that barley is
ling at 13s. 6d., and crushing linseed at 30s.; all of native
wth.
" Whether the reader refer to the above facts, which admit of
no refutation, to our advancement in the arts of preparation,
to the ingenuity and efficacy of our machinery, or to the growing

272

spirit of inquiry, he will discover how senseless and unavailing
were the attempts to thwart my advocacy of these important
subjects, and to confine within the limits of a locality bemeiits
that were ordained for the kingdom at large.

Our flax-ship may now be considered fairly racist Te-
quiring only skilful mariners to direct her course. ‘That her
voyage will be prosperous, I entertain no doubt; because the
necessities of an increasing population imperatively demand
that food, raiment, and employment, with which she is so richly
laden ;—food, because of the seed of flax, which, formed into
compounds to fatten cattle, produces corn as well as meat—
raiment, because of the linen obtained from the stalks—and
employnient, because of the thirty branches of business attached
to the crop.

If idleness be the root of all evil, the employment of the
poor must ever be a prominent object of Christian duty. Could
my readers witness the beneficial effects of flax-scutching alone
upon certain classes destitute of all moral and religious order,
they would firmly unite with me in the furtherance of this
great cause, nor desist from their labours till flax shall have
become a staple commodity of this country.

During my progress, I have been enabled to surmount diffi-
culties to which I shall ever revert with gratitude and astonish-
ment. Had my opponents been capable of appreciating the
principles by which I was actuated, they would have shared
_ with me “the luxury of doing good,” and escaped an unen-—
viable notoriety now inseparably attached to the history of the
flax-cause.

And here, I must briefly advert to the encouragement
derived from many ofmycorrespondents whom I may probably
never see; but whose intelligent letters I shall retain as pleasing
remembrances of friendly co-operation.

According to my original intention, I shall now proceed to
compile this series, with my pamphlets, &c., and to republish
them, by subscription, in a collected form, dedicated to the -
landlords and tenants of Great Britain. The work will contain
ample directions for grazing all descriptions of stock, and for
securing the flax-crop according to the Belgian system. The
whole will be illustrated by engravings of the bullock-boxes,

cas

eed. five | or six S chillinn All I require is
ual loss; my object being the good of my
the Beatihoation of success. :
“Tam, &c.,
— Joun Warngs, Jun.

274

CONCLUDING REMARKS.

———_—_—_

London, March, 1846.

To the foregoing pages I could add a volume of letters, ac-
knowledging the benefits derived from the adoption of my
plans. But such evidence, however gratifying, is not essential,
because it is impossible for any to fail of success, provided they
adhere to the rules prescribed. Nor is it necessary, at the
present juncture, to enforce the subject upon the attention of
agriculturists. Henceforth, the flax cause will rest upon its
own merits ; which,if we may judge from the signs of the
times, must ultimately be established.

The greatest propellers, however, powerful as the screw of
Archimedes, are the measures of Sir Robert Peel, which
deprive the farmer of remuneration from every crop except
flax. He will, therefore, be compelled to introduce into his
rotation this important acquisition, which, under a milder ad-
ministration, he would for ever have rejected.

During my sojourn in the metropolis for the purpose of
superintending the publication of this book, I received many
very interesting communications, from which I select, for the
consideration of the reader, the following brief extracts :—

“* Ormsby, Norfolk, March "ith, 1846.
* * *.

%

“What flax I sent to Hull last year paid me 8/. 10s. per acre
clear of allexpenses. * * * “ Ricuarp GLAssPooLE.”

“ Fenton Barns, March 1\th, 1846.

Sra,
* * * *

‘Some ten years ago I grew nine imperial acres of flax.* * * | —

The crop was sold at Perth and Dundee, where it fetched the very top
price, if I remember right, 60/. per ton. I also sold the seed at a
very high price, the quality being excellent. * * * After deducting
all expenses, it left a clear profit of 15/7. per acre, which was mes.
good considering I was a novice at the business. * * *

“Grorce Hope,”

275

ff Hembury Fort, Honiton, March 19th, 1846.

. ‘ T enclose the account of my flax, which I have put down
so that I may be within the mark. * * * We shall certainly
ire the services of one of your Belgian flax-dressers in this neigh-

“* Debt and as of one Acre:

: Bi 8.0.
“ Ploughing three times. . ‘ Lid» 0
Seed, two bushels Pine ‘ t".8: 6
Working in ° 3 , ‘ 0 2 6
‘Pulling : iota O40 5@
Dressing Flax, two packs an acre 3.0 0
Rent . : ‘ > 110 0
Tes 6

By Seed, sixteen bushels at 7s. x 512 0

_ Flax, two packs, at 6/. per pack an 220: @
1712 0

7 2 0

Clear 10 10 0

6 WiiuiaM Porter.”

~ “ Willoughton Grange, Spittal, March 1'ith, 1846.

_ Having grown a very excellent crop of flax last season on a
xe of poor undrained clay land, with the application of two cwt. of
no ; aie having thrashed the seed a short time since (23 bushels

to the Trent-side system. * * * I may add, that I am so
| pleased with flax as a fallow-crop, that I intend to sow ten acres
year. * * * Linseed is now very dear, being ten shillings per

““W. J. Nicnonson.”’

"2

276
“ Model Farm, Caledon, November 29th, 1845.

‘Srr,

“In answer to yours of the 24th, I haye much pleasure in fur-

nishing you with an account of the flax crop, and expenses thereon, :

grown on the Earl of Caledon’s model farm. Crop, 1845.

Soe

‘‘ Produce of 1 acre, 1 rood, 39 perches, sold at 55 19 ie
11s. 9d. per stone . ° ; |

Tow : 0° 8 0

.

130 bushels hows, which I caniides: well worth

8d. per bushel . ee
60 14 33
Expenses of Crop. |

£28 3

5 bushels seed . 316 6

Weeding ? 010 0

Pulling, rippling, eae aibepiny 4 3 8

Taking out of steep—spreading 214

Lifting and tying | ae

Scutching 49 4
—-— 16 3 63

Leaving a balance of 4410 9

Or at the rate of 29/. 13s. 10d. per acre, after deducting all ex-
penses.

“It is but fair to add, that we had to carry the flax to and from the
steep, on barrows, eight perches, as the steep was in a bog, and the
carts could not get near it—consequently, had the carts got close to
the steep, there would have been at least 1/. 10s. saved.

“T am, Sir, your most obedient servant,

“ Joun Barr, Manager.
“ J. MacAdam, jun., Esq.” ;

The most important inferences are to be drawn from the
above accounts, alike advantageous to landlords, tenants, and
labourers, in whose prosperity every branch of the somTneeify
is deeply interested.

It will be seen that the clear profit, either upon good or
inferior flax, is greater than upon corn; and that, under the
improved system, the fibre only of the former is sent to

277

market, while the seed, chaff, and broken stalks are appro-
ted to the fattening of cattle and to the making of manure.
_ No objection, therefore, can now be urged on account of
exhausting effects. The prohibitory clauses in old leases arose
_ from the disregard paid to the preservation of the seed, or
from selling the entire crop to factors called linmen. ‘The
_ greater portion of linseed in Ireland, even at the present day,
F _ is destroyed, and the same ruinous custom still exists in Eng-
ing as the subjoined extract from a letter before me proves :

** Willoughton Grange.

2 eas Ma * “T rode twenty miles to the warp lands
onthe side of the river Trent, to learn some particulars about the
a Brera process flax has to go through; and saw a field of 12 acres
q heed with the stalks just taken out of steep and the seed adhering
_ to them: the owner of which showed me the various stages they have
to go through. He stated that they always got their best crops of
_ wheat after flax, and said that he would buy all the flax that I could
: a grow.”

_ I desire to draw particular attention to this point, because
so much is said about the exhausting effects of flax beyond

| Bother crops; which, although ill-grounded, operates against the
: cause; and I think that I cannot more effectually enforce this
_ part of my argument than by inserting a letter on the sub-
__ ject just forwarded to the ‘ Morning Herald’ and other journals.

FACTS CONNECTED WITH THE FLAX CROP,
Sir,
‘Seidel Ist.—Under the improved system of husbandry, flax
| F is not exhausting, but a highly restorative crop.
_ 2nd.—If sown primarily for the seed, the value of the crop
_ is equal to the average value of wheat, barley, and oats.
4 3rd.—Under experienced management in every department,
_ the crop is worth more than wheat.
_ 4th.— Flax will grow upon any soils that produce corn, and
| ; upon soils where corn will not grow at all.
_ 5th.—The plant will flourish after any crop, turnips excepted,
_ and probably carrots or mangel wurzel.
6th. —Flax has been grown upon mT farm during the past
; 7 six years in the following rotations, viz.: clover, stubble, flax,

278

wheat, barley—wheat, flax, wheat, barley—wheat, barley, flax,
barley—potatoes, flax, turnips, wheat—wheat, potatoes, flax,
turnips the same year, barley—and so on, the impor in
each field being distinguishable.

7th.—This year I have sown already four acres and a half,
upon clover stubble ; one acre upon barley instead of turnips ;
three-quarters of an acre that never produced any thing, save
briars and thorns; and three acres, the previous crops mes
been flax, wheat, and barley.

8th.—I have now six fields of wheat growing, the most bie
riant of which is that after flax, and even superior to any in the
parish.

9th.— When wheat follows flax much less seed is required. ’

10th.—One acre sown with flax to every hundred now under
tillage, would produce at least 35,000 tons of linseed more
than ever were imported of oil-cake in one year; afford employ-
ment for double the present redundant population; and not
then supply half the demand for the fibre.

From observation and some experience, I am of opinion that
clay land, such as is now allowed to lie fallow, would produce
abundant crops of wheat and flax much longer than any other
rotation.

I could adduce many additional facts in refutation of former
prejudices against the flax-crop, and in favour of its immediate
adoption in every agricultural district throughout the kingdom.

Two fundamental principles are involved in this important
question :—

Ist.—The successful cultivation of the plant depends upon
the preservation of the seed—a point hitherto not recognised
either by the theory or practice of past or present times.

2nd.—The national introduction of the crop can only be
achieved through the exercise of patriotism. On this ground
alone, I hold myself in readiness to co-operate with any parties,
regardless of every private consideration.

I am, Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
Joun WarNEs.
Golden Cross, Charing Cross,
April.3rd, 1846.

279

Without animal-manure for the land, and employment for
people, it is impossible for agriculture to prosper. These,
the flax crop will supply in an eminent degree if properly
introduced: and I doubt not that the average produce of the
kingdom in corn and meat would be increased three or four
_ fold in a very few years.
_ The value of manure obtained through my system, may be
3 _ discovered on comparison with artificial applications; the
_ latter being seldom of use beyond twelve months, while the
_ efficacy of the former is perceptible for three or four years?
_ Were islands of guano imported, the necessity of resorting to
4 native resources for manure could not be obviated: The more
_ this subject is investigated, the more clearly it will be seen
_ that the order of Providence has placed within the reach of
every farmer the means of re-production, without recourse to
_ foreigners either for food for his cattle or manure for his land.
__ The only obstacle centres in the fear of trouble, that bane to
agricultural improvement ! !
Did we live in an age of miracles, a greater evil could not
be inflicted than the power of obtaining provisions without
trouble, labour, and expense. Hence, were it possible that all
crops could be produced at the cost of a few pence per acre,
according to the agricultural certificates of Mr. Bickes, now
in London, a discovery more fatal to the nation could not have
been made; for what farmer would trouble himself to breed,
rear, or fatten cattle?!! the expense of cartage upon the
_ manure alone being infinitely greater than for the specifics pro-
posed by the above-named foreigner.
_ The time has arrived when the scientific agriculturist must
_ distinguish between the shadow and the substance; and no
__ longer be guided by theory in opposition to experience. Every
obstacle to good husbandry ought to be removed; monopoly
and mystery abolished ; and the wide field of knowledge opened
_ to all without money and without price. The strong should
help the weak, the wise instruct the ignorant, in order that far-
mers may be enabled to stir up the latent resources of the soil,
and obtain a per centage upon the money employed through
increased production.
In the best cultivated districts there are no regular plans for

280

ensuring, throughout the year, an independent and adequate
supply of cattle-food and manure; a defect which the som
embodied in this work is designed to remedy.

The extraordinary facilities afforded for the parchaee: of
artificial manures, are only encouragements to sloth and extra-
vagance. One tailor does not employ another to make his
clothes; neither should our fie!ds be dressed through the
medium of manure-companies.

~The annual cost for agricultural nostrums is infinitely
beneath the loss by fallows, and by the waste upon farms.
Were the former sowed with linseed, and the latter obviated,
the necessity for purchasing manure would be avoided, and the
soil permanently improved. Let the reader calculate, if pos-
sible, the difference between a hundred acres of land lying idle,
subjected to rent, rates, and tillage, and a hundred acres sown
with flax. For my own part, 1 am unequal to the task, so
innumerable are the ramifications of advantage in favour of the
latter.

During the Rebecca-riots, I often expressed, to my corre-
spondents in Wales, an opinion that the box-feeding system
would abolish more toll-bars than the carters of lime; because
farmers would obtain a sufficient supply of manure without
recourse to the kiln; and thus render unnecessary the payment
of toll.

Icannot therefore conceal my gratification at being informed,
a few days since; by Mr. Walter T. Jones of Cefu Reig,
Merionethshire, that he intended to have my work translated
into the Welsh language immediately ; an undertaking,
which, aided by the patriotic exertions of Mr. Purchas of
Pilstone, will open a new agricultural era to that neglected
principality.

Ireland, also, will now learn the intrinsic value of the flax
crop. For, although competition may reduce the price of the
fibre, her farmers will reeeive an ample compensation through
the fattening properties of the seed. '

By the introduction of the improved system of managing
flax, Scotland would derive the greatest advantages ; of which
the rearers of cattle will be large participators. ‘To them a
supply of native linseed must prove a benefit that cannot be

~ahemanenaell

281

uly estimated. Because they will be enabled to retain at

least the condition of their cattle through the winter, and to

cure an abundance of efficacious manure. I refer to my

er on the Use of Linseed (p. 130).

But wherever flax-culture is extensively introduced, there
‘rates will be found lightest, and the condition of the

e happiest.

4 A ea in Ireland never fail to notice the comparative

afort of the poor in those districts where flax is cultivated

where it is not.

“sarge Nicholls, Esq., one of the Poor Law Commis-

rs, in his very useful book entitled “The Farmer,”

, “Can we doubt that what has thus been done in
Treland ought also to be done in England? The soil
_ and the climate are at least as favourable for the growth
of flax here as they are there, or as they are in either ©
Holland or. Belgium. Instructors may readily be obtained
either of these countries, or persons might be sent from

nce to learn the various processes, and on their return they
ight impart instruction to others. The result would, I am
nt, amply repay the outlay by the benefits it would confer,
_ and the art once acquired would not be in danger of being
; lost. * * * * Ihave seen flax growing on mere bog in
~~ Ireland. The general introduction of the crop in England
_ would constitute a new and most valuable element in the rota-
tion, and would enable the farmer to vary and extend his
successions, which is in itself a highly important consideration.
* It may be safely asserted, therefore, that a flax-
crop rightly managed is not only valuable as affording increased
means of employment for our agricultural population, and
§ highly profitable for the purposes of the manufacturer, and for
the feeding of cattle, but that it moreover returns to the soil,
in the shape of manure, as much, if not more, than any of the
grain-crops.”

It is only within the last few weeks that I had the good
fortune to become acquainted with Mr. Nicholls and his writ-
ings. But, though short the time, abundant evidence has been
afforded me of the soundness and benevolence of his views;
his constant aim being the advancement of the condition of

es

282

the poor. That gentleman’s endeavour to introduce the subject
to influential parties must eventually be attended with success.

I lay down my pen, therefore, rejoicing in the bright prospect
now open to my country, and assured that the cause no longer
rests upon my feeble advocacy, but, I repeat, “Upon the
thinking and intelligent part of the community ; upon minds
that perceive the vastness of the undertaking, and are willing
_ to lend their powerful aid in carrying it out.”

While occupied in correcting the press for this part of my
work, I received the “ Northern Whig ” from Ireland, contain-
ing the following letter, which powerfully confirms the correct-
ness of my conclusions.

London, April 8th, 1846.

“ Treasury, 6th March, 1846.
«« Sir,

“ T am desired by Sir Robert Peel to inform you, that
he has read, with attention and great pleasure, the Reports of
the Society for Promoting and Improving the Culture of Flax
in Ireland. He trusts that the efforts directed to so laudable
and important an object will meet with ample success, and
begs leave to send a donation of 25/., with his best wishes for _
the welfare of the Society.

«‘T have the honour to be,
«Your obedient humble Servant,
«“ Joun Youne.

« James McAdam, Jun., Esq.,
Secretary to the Flax Society, §¢c., §e.”

a? PP ND TX.

CONTROVERSY

' ON THE

“GOLD. OF PLEASURE.”

I observe that several of your correspondents mistake the plant
“Camelina sativa, or Gold of Pleasure; and particularly Mr.
ley, in a paper read before the Royal ‘Agricultural Society, mis-
t fora kind of flax seed. This seed is too well known to pur-
of Petersburgh linseed as a noxious weed, which greatly
hes the weight and value of those samples in which it appears ;
I much regret to see English farmers wasting their energies upon
ng so worthless. If any person doubt this assertion, let him make
y amongst the linseed brokers at Mark Lane.
Your obedient servnt,
A LooKER-on.

ae Tam very much surprised at the reasoning of a correspondent
ning himself a “ Looker-on ”) in attempting to denounce the value
1¢ Gold of Pleasure. He states that the Linseed Brokers of Mark
ne consider it a ‘noxious weed.” I can readily suppose that the
alers in linseed would object to its appearance in the linseed, as ren-
ring the samples imperfect—but this circumstance no more proves
e “ worthlessness of the Gold of Pleasure,” than the mixture of rye
.a sample of wheat (a frequent occurrence in this rye-growing dis-_
trict) would prove rye worthless ;—each is good in itself, rye inferior
wheat in value: but a little more experience, I confidently predict,
ll prove the Gold of Pleasure to be superior to flax, in the opinion
f the practical agriculturalist.
we, Yours, &e.,
bests, DanieL Gwinr.
Icklingham, December 14th, 1843.

284
Srr, ke
The attempt to set up the Gold of Pleasure in opposition to flax
and linseed, was to meat first a subject of considerable amusement. It
came before me as follows :—About two years ago I received a printed
circular headed ‘‘ Gold of Pleasure,” giving a long and glowing de-
scription of its virtues, accompanied by a polite letter offering to supply
me with a sample of the seed, and of the oil and cake extracted there-
from. I readily accepted the offer, and by return of post a parcel ar-
rived containing a small vial of oil, a piece of cake as hard as a stone,
and, to my astonishment, a little of the very seed of a plant that I had
been at much expense to eradicate from my flax, as a troublesome and
noxious weed. My correspondent informed me that he had disposed
of some of the seed at five shillings per lb., but he observed, “ If you
or any other person are willing to become agents for the sale of it, the
price would be four shillings per lb. for nine or ten coombs, with a li-
beral allowance for agency.”

Similar samples were forwarded and proposals made to the Editor of
the Norwich Mercury, for at that gentleman’s office I was shown the
seed, cake, and oil, with the accompanying correspondence.

I immediately returned samples of the seed with some of the straw
and bolls taken from amongst my flax, with an account of my own ex-
perience and opinion of its utter worthlessness in comparison to flax
and linseed.

I received a very gentlemanly answer, acknowledging the error into
which the writer had been led, through the ignorant representation of
a friend. I confess that I perused the circular in question with unusual
care, well weighing the importance of a crop which, “ ere long, was to
take that place in the agricultural world to which, by its high merit, it
was so justly entitled.” I then, with pen and ink, worked out the follow-
ing question, founded on the assertion that “ the produce will mostly
be very abundant, as high as 35 to 45 bushels per acre.”—If an acre of
land will produce 40 bushels of seed, weighing ‘“ 56 Ibs. per bushel,”
what will be the value of the crop at five shillings per lb.? Answer,
560/. sterling. I involuntarily grasped the quill in my hand, fancying
T at last had caught ‘‘the Goose that laid the Golden Eggs.” So un-
willing was I to let her go, that I consulted living Botanists, and the
writings of those long since dead, as to the intrinsic value of the seed
in question. From every authority I received the anti-pleasurable assu-
rance that it really was the pen, and not the goose, I held so firmly.
The limits of a letter will not admit of numerous quotations; let one
suffice from Smith’s English Flora, Vol. ITI. p. 164, under the head
Camelina sativa, or Gold of Pleasure :—‘ The ridiculous pompous
English name seems a satire on the article of which it is composed, as
yielding nothing but disappointment.” — ;

285

: sinensd be asked, have you no further authority, from your own ex-
, for denouncing the Gold of Pleasure, than that of its acci-
al growth amongst your flax? I reply, last spring I appropriated
eve of ground to its culture, and found but too much reason to
iesce in Sir James Smith’s exposition.
r. . Editor, it is far from my object unnecessarily to expose indivi-
als to ridicule, because intermixed with artful and designing men
many who, from want of experience of those things which they
-adyocate, unintentionally lead the anxious inquirer into the adoption
ox fruitless schemes. To this number your correspondent, Mr. Gwilt,
: sto belong. For in his letter of the 14th inst. he observes, “a
2 more experience, I confidently predict, will prove the Gold of
asure to be superior to flax, in the opinion of the practical agricul-
turist.” Of Mr. Taylor, another of your correspondents, I have more
son to complain, because he has taken extracts, nearly verbatim,
m my published statements and receipts for fattening cattle; dis-
cing linseed for the Gold of Pleasure, and offering his mixture as a
substitute for linseed compound. Also, Mr. Taylor underrates the
_ produce of linseed per acre, which, instead of 16; averages, even on
ry ordinary lands, from 20 to 26 bushels per acre ; indeed, in several
stances, the value of the crops exceeded that of the land. He, how-
aver, reminds the reader that “when the price of corn is very low
and cheerless, the Gold of Pleasure will never fail to produce the gold
with pleasure and with abundance ;” the seed to be had opposite the
ominous Polytechnic Institution, price fifteen pence per lb. What a
— and yet at that rate the acreable value still amounts to 140/.,
id “abundance of chaff for horses, manure, and the manufac-
_ ture: sry whity-brown paper. ” I say ominous, because Polytechnic,
meaning many arts, is ominous of the many designs to which the farmer
_ is exposed.
Let me, then, warn him against the dangerous Scylla and Charybdis
in Regent Street, and caution him to pursue the straightforward course
Mark Lane, where factors many will offer him the noxious ‘‘ Gold
Pleasure” at about three farthings per lb., or perhaps for the
trouble of sifting it from foreign linseed, in which it abounds; noxious
on account of its unpalatable flavour and mal. adaptation to the fatten-
_ ing of cattle.
Mr. Skirving, the eminent horticulturist of Walton, assured me that
he had sown some of the Gold of Pleasure this year, and found it the
. eke weed imaginable.
_ Iwas informed only yesterday, by two Belgians, that in their
country the stalks of this plant were used for brooms, the oil for
: eelig and the cake for manure, but never for an article of food.
How indisereet, then, the attempt to foster upon the country a per-

286

nicious weed in opposition to the inestimable flax-plant !—inestimable,
because its acreable value exceeds that of any other crop; inestimable,
because the fibre is convertible to the most useful, as well as the most
costly, articles of wearing apparel ; inestimable, because it affords more
employment than any other production of the earth; inestimable,
because of the seed, which produces a valuable oil, a superior cake to
fatten bullocks, and forms the principal ingredient of the incomparable
cattle-compound.

Again, how careful ought gentlemen to be who canter their speeula-
tive “ hobbies” after pleasurable pursuits, lest they instigate others to
gallop after phantoms that only allure them into fatal mistakes.

Reprehensible, too, is the man who ventures to recommend plans for
public adoption of which he has not made full proof from often repeated
experiments. ‘* Lofty and incomprehensible theories have been too
long obtruded upon the agricultural community, to the exclusion of
those benefits which were absolutely within their grasp. The farmer’s
attention has been directed to fattening his cattle upon foreign food,
and to the vain attempt of enriching his land by foreign manure, in-
stead of obtaining both from the resources of his own farm.” At the
present eventful period, British agriculture is exposed to a species of
high treason, aided by a powerful secret conspiracy on the one hand,
and by an over-reaching, extorting, and plundering fraternity on the
other, to counteract which ought to be the peculiar care of the protec-
tive agricultural societies now being established in various parts of the
kingdom. It is: my intention next week to forward No. 8 of my
. series, giving an account of the extraordinary results from summer
grazing, and box-feeding with linseed compound, unmixed with grain
or pulse, and showing’ the correctness of Mr. Fleetwood’s conclusions

over Dr. Playfair’s theory of the non-flesh-making properties of olea-

ginous seeds. I beg to observe that I shall be ready to exchange a
line as promptly as possible, either publicly or privately, with any
party on the above strictures. If publicly, his name and address must
be given, or I shall not consider him entitled,to a reply.
I am, Sir, &c.,
JoHN WARNES, Jun.
Trimingham, Norfolk,
Dec. 23rd, 1843.

Sir,

Observing a letter in your interesting journal of December 5th, °

in which a statement of mine respecting the ‘‘ Gold of Pleasure” is in-
troduced, I hope that you will allow me to insert a reply in your next
paper, to the said letter of Mr. Warnes.

I readily admit that I am sometimes too confiding, and that my

7

287

_in the cause of agricultural improvement has occasionally led me
» speak too highly of a new discovery ; and upon no occasion have I
been more doubted and disbelieved than in expatiating upon the ad-
tages likely to arise from Mr. Warnes’ speculation of growing flax,
nd substituting his incomparable compound in the place of cake, for
both of which I was an early and zealous adyocate. I would not in-
tentionally mislead any one, but as I am extremely fond of my hobby,
trust that I may have the pleasure of riding him quietly without any
jostling with Mr. Warnes: and time will settle our oily contentions.—
_ Tam sorry that Mr. Warnes should have expressed himself so illi-
_ berally towards Mr. Taylor, who is a most highly respectable young
man, a Fellow of the Linnean Society, and I believe a most eminent
botanist. For his researches in botany are very extensive, and as he
occupies some land in order that he may practically become acquainted
with the properties of newly discovered plants, I trust that we may
confidently look to some important acquisitions.—As to the probable _
worth of the Gold of Pleasure, I shall only state what I do know. In
its green state it will furnish abundant food for sheep, and may be
folded off for turnips, and if possible for seed. Turnips may on those
follow, and a good crop obtained. It will yield an abundant crop of
__ seed—affording splendid oil for lamps, and the finest machinery, having
excellent cake and the seed compounded with barley equal and I might
say superior to linseed.—I have fed sheep, cows, and poultry stock
upon it with the greatest safety and satisfaction. I have had the
ake analysed by two eminent chemists in London,and their direc~
tions confirm all that I have said of its valuable properties.

__ I will not tréspass any further upon your columns, than merely to
observe that I do not undervalue Mr. Warnes’s most praiseworthy
endeavours to extend the growth of Flax—but I still think that the
__ practical large farmer will not be readily brought to adopt it—as
farmers in general dislike any thing out of the usual routine of busi-
ness, and for that reason will continue to prefer the use of oil-cake, to
_ Mr. Warnes’s incomparable compound, and that cake can and will be
- made, and to great ee from the home growth of the Gold of
_ Pleasure.

~ eae Ss I ls

Yours, &c.,
' DANIEL GwILT.
Ichlingham, Suffolk,
Feb. 2nd, 1844.

"4

LINSEED, versus, ‘GOLD OF PLEASURE.”
To the Editor of the Farmers’ Journal.

Sir, Teeuk
The turn that the controversy on the above subject has taken, I
must confess, both surprises and pains me. Had I made some mon-
strous proposition, such as the re-building of Babylon, or the comple-
tion of the Tower of Babel, hundreds would have ridden their “ hob-
bies” to death, to aid the vain-glorious cause. Votaries, also, by
thousands, would have offered their ‘“‘ Gold” with ‘‘ Pleasure” at the
shrine of ignorance and folly. No journey would have been thought
too long, or sacrifice too great. The noble design of finding employ-
ment for the poor by this means, would have been lauded throughout the
land, and difficulties would have vanished like the morning cloud or
the early dew. But now that I point out feasible and simple plans for
obtaining this National Desideratum, troubles are magnified, expenses
exaggerated, and profits underrated. In vain have I travelled, written,

spoken, during the past four years, to convince the Rev. Daniel Gwilt _

that his ‘‘ early and zealous advocacy of my speculations” was founded
on truth. Had the rev. gentleman offered me a practical, rather than

a verbal support, few indeed would have been the words required to

prove the ‘advantages likely to arise from my speculation of growing

flax, and of substituting the incomparable compound in the place of

cake.”

First. He would have shown his beauteous flax-field waving in the —

wind ; next, the linseed rattling in the Golden Bolls ; then the bullock
fattened in the box ; afterwards, the milk, rich from compound, and
the butter of matchless flavour. Mr. Gwilt would have proved by
ocular demonstration, the fund of employment that the cultivation of
the inestimable flax-plant would ensure to the able-bodied labourer in
the field, and to the juvenile population in the cottage. He could also
have pointed out the miseries that might be removed from the habita-
tions of the poor, and the benefits that might be conferred upon the
farmer, upon the landowner, and upon the clergy of the Established
Church. Instead of which; allured by the glittering ‘‘ Gold of Plea-
sure,” the rev. gentleman forsook his early love, and now, supported
by a mere “probability,” asserts that his second favourite is more
worthy than the first. For, he observes, ‘‘ As to the probable worth
of the Gold of Pleasure, I shall only state what I do know. In its

289
n state it will farnish abundant food for sheep, and may be folded

F off for turnips, and if possible for seed. Turnips may on those follow,
_ anda good crop obtained. It will yield an abundant crop of seed,
_ affording splendid oil for lamps, and the finest machinery, having
_ excellent cake and the seed compounded with barley equal and I might
_ say superior to linseed.” It is difficult to define the exact meaning of
_ the above sentences; I must therefore content myself with observing,
_ that, however productive the seed, the British farmer will not be
_ induced to cultivate a crop for the sake of sending lamp-oil, rather
_ than fat bullocks, tomarket. And, as Mr. Gwilt produces no fat oxen
_ from the stall, or sheep from the fold, to prove that the Gold of Plea-
sure compounded with barley is superior to linseed ; so may I justly
_ claim the victory for the “incomparable cattle compound.”
_ Tis true, the rev. gentleman may have “fed cows, sheep, and
_ poultry-stock upon the Gold of Pleasure with the greatest safety and
_ satisfaction” to himself; but to what extent, he has failed to commu-

nicate; nor is his advocacy supported by the strongest of all argu-

q ments—viz., by profit, whereas mine has always been enforced by
_ this powerful ally. Hence the success of all my recommendations ;

for in no instance have I incurred the responsibility of promulgating

statements that had not previously been substantiated by often repeated

_ experiments. According to the account of Messrs. Gibbs, which ap-

_ peared in your Journal of the 15th of Jan., Mr. Gwilt cultivated
the plant in question eight years ago. It is strange that, during the

_ whole of that period, no stronger evidence should be adduced than that
_ of its having been given with ‘safety and satisfaction to cows, sheep,
_ and poultry.” No encomiums are passed upon the increased quantity
_ of milk, the flavour of the butter, the improvement of the sheep, or of
_ the additional number of eggs laid by the poultry. Contrasted with
_ safety is danger ; I should apprehend the most dangerous consequences
_ to my cattle, were they compelled to eat the nauseous Gold of Pleasure,
_ asa substitute for the pure and wholesome linseed. Nauseous, because
__ whoever tastes only a few grains, I am confident, will never repeat the
_ dose for the sake of pleasure. It is well known that change of food
affects both milk and butter, and also the condition of the cow. To

prove therefore the accuracy of my “speculation,” two cows should
be placed in separate stalls; one fed upon the Gold of Pleasure ; the
other upon linseed, in equal proportions, prepared alike, and at the

3 rate of two or three pounds per day; the milk from each cow being,

of course, kept by itself. I venture to surmise, that, at the expiration

of two months, the evidence of the dairy-maid and of the yard-man
will be much in favour of linseed. Seldom more than one ata time

is kept upon my premises, which is generally purchased with her
ealf. She is kept in a box, fed on Linseed compound with the fat
U

290

cattle, regularly milked, and sold in about twelve months to ithe
butcher.

Linseed-meal mixed with grains is used by cow-keepers in the
metropolis and other large towns, by which the quality of the milk is
greatly improved. But were the Gold of Pleasure substituted, I am
persuaded it would prove deleterious. Both from mustard and rape-
seed a cake is produced, which I never heard was used as cattle food,
but always as manure. The Gold of Pleasure, being also of the Cru-
ciferee order, partakes of the same nature; and therefore, however
great the acreable produce, the main value must centre in its use as oil
for lamps, and cake for land. No flax can be obtained from the stalks,
nor fodder for cattle, more than from those of turnips, aarerad or
rape-seed,

The attempt to supplant the culture of flax, by the substitution of
the Gold of Pleasure, certainly must be founded on complete ignorance
of both. Because I cannot for a moment suppose that either the Rev.
Daniel Gwilt, Mr. Taylor the eminent botanist, or any of these gen-
tlemen who engaged in this controversy, are at all aware of the real
merits of the flax plant.

I have laboured in various ways, regardless of expense or trouble, to
impress upon my country the importance of an extended cultivation of
this prolific crop, with the viewof finding that employment for the
people, which alone can uphold a sinking empire, and revive a ruined
population.

The experience of every day tends to confirm my expectation that
the great cause I advocate must ultimately prevail.

The following extract, forwarded to me by a stranger, whilst writing
this letter, will perhaps be considered an interesting confirmation of
the statements and arguments which I have so repeatedly laid before
the public :—

‘“‘ CULTIVATION OF FLax.—By their neglect of the cultivation of
flax, the farmers and landowners of this country have sadly overlooked
their own interests. Flax is commonly consumed in this country to
the amount of 67,000 tons annually, the value of which, at a low
avérage, amounts to between 4,000,000/. and 5000,000/. sterling.
Every pound of this raw material is imported from our industrious con-
tinental neighbours—the French, Dutch, and Belgian farmers. * * *
There is as good soil in England, for the cultivation of the flax-plant, as
in Ireland, France, or Holland; * * * farmers can, by growing flax,
clear greater profits per acre, than they can by growing wheat and
barley. * * * The small farmers of Ireland can now make by an acre or
two of flax, what will pay their rent for 30 acres. This never could
be done by six acres of grain. In the north, 112,000 acres of flax
were sown last year, and the calculation is that the value of the pro-

a)

_ dred acres of flax, and the fattening of thousands of bullocks upon

291

_ duce, at the low price of 45/. per ton, would amount to 1,707,150/.
__ At the same time, I know that some has been sold so high as 140/. per
ton, and a great deal at 64/. and 70/. per ton.”

The above statements are either true or false. If false, they deserve

4 a nation’s censure; if true, a nation’s adoption. Happily I can speak

to their correctness in every material point ; for I have in my possession

q ample proof from the parties alluded to, and from Captain Skinner,
_ secretary to the Irish Flax Improvement Society. I visited Ireland

_ for the purpose of inquiring into the correctness of those reports of
_ which I had heard so much, and I was introduced to the most influ-
| ential parties at and around Belfast. I attended their public meetings
and flax-markets. I saw their spinning and scutching mills, and no
information was withheld. I have, since, not ceased to promulgate my
views and experience. The result has been the growth of some hun-

linseed. The soil and climate of this country have been proved supe-
rior to any part of the world for the production of seed, and equal for
that of flax. Public meetings have been convened in various parts, on
_ which occasions numerous specimens of foreign and home-grown flax
and seed were exhibited, particularly at Ipswich, in Suffolk. To the
latter meeting the Rev. Daniel Gwilt was invited by advertisement, of
which the following is a copy :—

“The Ipswich and Ashbocking Farmers’ Club cordially invite the
Public to their Annual Meeting and dinner, on the 3rd day of Novem-

‘| _ ber, at Ipswich, when, to the customary exhibition of Farm Produce,

Specimens of flax and linseed grown in Suffolk, Essex, Norfolk, and
o counties, will be added.

The method of Steeping and Drying Flax, of extricating the seed
from the Bolls, the Fibre from the Stalks, and the a of Linen
Yarn, will be practically illustrated.

_ To show the various purposes to which this important plant is ap-
plied, Flax, from the most inferior to the most costly articles of manu-
facture, will be submitted to public inspection.

_ Arrangements will be made for the exhibition of Crushing Ma-
_chines, at work with Steam Apparatus, and Coppers for forming Lin-

| seed, Grain, Pulse, or Potatoes, into a cheap compound to fatten Cattle,

instead of Foreign Oil-cake.
« Pattern Boxes, upon an economical construction, for Grazing Bul-
locks, protecting them against Flies, and preserving the Manure, will

. be erected in the Show-yard.

“ A variety of Agricultural Implements will be dteplayed: and inform-
u2

292

ation on Practical and Scientific Agriculture given, in order to render
the meeting at once interesting, instructive, and profitable.

“ The exhibition of Machinery, &c., will be held in Mr. Chenery’s
Pasture Field, from Ten till One o valoek. during which time the pro-
cess of making compound will be often repeated.

“The show of Flax, &c., will take place in the Temperance Hall,
near the above field, from Twelve till Two o’clock, to which Ladies
are respectfully invited.

‘‘ At the above hour, the chair will be taken by the Right Hon.
Lorp RENDLESHAM, when the propriety of forming an Association to
advance the interests of Agriculture, through the Cultivation of Flax,
fattening Cattle upon Native Produce, Box Feeding, and Summer
Grazing, will be taken into consideration.”

No supporter of the Gold of Pleasure, or of “ the new flax seed,”
appeared, but agriculturists from Norfolk were present, whose testi-
mony induced many parties to adopt the new system of grazing—with
what success Mr. Gwilt may learn from the Rev. J. C. Blair Warren,
of Horkesley Hall, whose excellent letter on the subject lately appeared
in your Journal; or from Mr. Catt, of Whitton, Mr. King, of Shotley,
and from other members of the Ipswich and Ashbocking Farmers’
Club, upon whose premises Linseed is daily being formed into com-
pound, and Cattle fattened in Boxes.

Mr. Editor, in concluding this brief defence of the flax-crop, allow
me to assure you that I entertain towards Mr. Gwilt no other feeling
than that of respect ; and I should rejoice in the opportunity of a per-
sonal conference on the subject of our friendly contention. The
present controversy has afforded me the means of more widely dissemi-
nating the merits of a plant, for the cultivation of which greater
facilities abound in this than in any other part of the world, and from
which a greater amount of employment is derived than foun any other
production of the earth; of a plant, for which five millions for the
fibre, and many millions beside for the seed, oil, and cake, are annually
sent out of the country. The home circulation of these millions would
be the means of raising thousands from the depth of poverty and misery.
The home circulation of these millions would be attended with incal-
culable advantage to the Farmer and the Tradesman, the landowner
and the merchant, the husbandman and the operative. The home
circulation of these millions would render the whole community pros-
perous and free,

I invite the public toa calm and sober consideration of these facts,
and to the overwhelming truth, that employment can alone protect us
against the encroachments of the revolutionist, or arrest the hand of
the incendiary.

293
e

M "FT invite the public toa close investigation of my letters, published
in your popular Journal, and of my pamphlets. I invite the public to
co-operate with the “ National Association lately formed for the pur-

pose of affording instruction and assistance in the cultivation of Flax,
a e use of the seed to fatten cattle, box-feeding, and summer grazing,
e. &e.” And lastly, I invite attention to the circumstance of a
to the National Association having been formed in West Nor-
on Refs is supported by the largest and most opulent agriculturists
in th m. ‘Thus has the prediction, that extensive occupiers
uld not be induced to grow flax, already met a negative, and soon, I
_ their example will be followed by every farmer who desires to
obviate the necessity of purchasing either food for his cattle or manure

Iam, Your obedient Servant,
JoHN WARNES, Jun.

294

HEMP.

Next in importance to the cultivation of Flax, would be tha of Hemp,
which is very largely imported into England. Nine-tenths of the whole
quantity come from the Russians alone, who take nothing in return
from the British farmer. Large tracts of marshes, and lands situated
near marshes, even in Norfolk, that bear but a scanty herbage,
would undoubtedly produce rich crops of hemp. I insert the follow-
ing information on the subject, with the hope that it may conduce to
a more extensive growth of this highly productive and valuable plant
in England.

Hemp, or Canabis sativa, is an annual plant, usually rising to the
height of five or six feet. In some situations it is, however, capable of
attaining to a much larger growth. The flowers and fruit grow upon
separate plants. Those bearing the flowers are called male hemp ;
those bearing the fruit or seed, the female. The fruit grows in great
abundance on the stem of the female hemp. This seed is not preceded
by any corolla; a membranaceous hairy calyx, terminating in long
points, encloses the pistil, the base of which becomes the seed.

The male is quicker in its growth than the female, and generally
rises half a foot higher, by which provision of nature the farina from
the stamina, or the fecundating dust which conveys fertility to the
seed, is readily shed on the lower plant.

Most soils may be made fit by good manuring for the cultivation of
hemp, but rich moist earth is considered the most favourable to its
growth. It seldom thrives on a stiff clay soil. A poor land will
yield but a scanty crop, the quality, however, will be proportionably
finer; while a strong rich land produces a greater quantity, but this
will be coarse. Cultivators are therefore regulated in their choice of
soil by the description of hemp which they wish to raise.

In Lincolnshire, where strong and heavy hemp is grown, the hemp-
gardens are small, and near the houses of the growers. These gardens
absorb vast quantities of manure, and produce hemp every year, with-
out any alternation of the crop, or any change except that, in years
when the hemp is pulled early, a few turnips are sown for a stubble
crop. When the hemp is required for cordage, it should be sown in
drills, as a stronger and eoarser fibre will be produced.

When it is wanted for purposes of weaving, then broad-cast is the
best method, as the stems rise more slender and fine in proportion to
their proximity, provided they are not so near to each other as to choke

295

and impede the growth: there should never be a smalier interval than
a foot between each plant. Three bushels of seed is the ordinary al-
lowance for an acre, when sown broad-cast, this quantity being more
_ or less, according to circumstances. If sown in drills, a bushel and a
half is found sufficient. After the seed has been sown, great vigi-
lance is required to keep off the birds. After this period, the hemp
ground requires very little care or labour till it is fit for pulling. This
plant is never overrun with weeds, but, on the contrary, has the re-
' markable property of destroying their vegetation.

Agriculturists sometimes take advantage of this well-known fact,
and by sowing a crop or two of hemp on the rankest soils, they subdue
all noxious weeds, and entirely cleanse the ground from these trouble-
some intruders. The male hemp comes to maturity three weeks or a
month earlier than the female. It is known to be ripe by the flowers
fading, the farina falling, and the stems turning partially yellow.
This period is usually about thirteen or fourteen weeks after sowing.
It is the frequent practice to pull these before they are quite ripe, for
after having arrived at their full maturity, the fibres adhere so tena-
ciously to the reed as not to be readily separated without injury. ‘The
Suffolk cultivators gather both male and female plants at the same time,
reserving a small part for seed. In Lincolnshire and on the Continent,
they gather the male plant a month earlier than the female, and there-
fore small paths are made at intervals through the field, in order that
the persons employed may pluck the plants which are ripe without
trampling down those which are to remain.

The ripeness of the female hemp is known by the same indications
as that of the male, and also by the calyx partially opening and its
seed beginning to change colour. They are both less injured by pull-
ing too soon than too late, but when very young, though the fibres
are more flexible and fine, the ropes which are made with them are
found not to be so lasting as when the plants are gathered ina more ma- _

_ tured state. Hemp is never suffered to remain ungathered till the seed is
perfectly ripe, as at this period the bark becomes woody, and so coarse
that no subsequent process can reduce its fibres to a proper degree of
fineness. Some plants should therefore be preserved for seed. These
require no particular cultivation; but the male hemp is likewise left
rather longer than usual, that it may attain to maturity, and shed its
farina upon the seed-bearing plant. Forty plants raised in the com-
mon way yielded only a pound and a half of seed, whereas from a
single plant which grew by itself seven pounds and a half were ob-
tained.

When the hemp is pulled it is taken up by the roots, and, before the
plants are taken from the field, the leaves and flowers, and sometimes
the roots, are taken off with a wooden sword; theseare left onthe ground,

296

as they greatly contribute to enrich it for the succeeding crop. The
stalks are then arranged as nearly as possible in equal lengths, the root
ends being all laid on the same side of each handful or bundle, which
is then tied round with one of the stalks. :

When the hemp is gathered, from which seed is to be preserved, it
is exposed eight or ten days to the air, after which the heads are cut off
and the seed thrashed and separated in the same manner as linseed.
The processes to which the hemp is subjected before it is rendered
marketable, and in a state fit for spinning, are very similar to those
practised with flax. The same end is required to be attained —that
of separating and cleansing the fibres from the woody and gummy matters
which adhere to it, and the means used are therefore the same, the
time and degree of each operation being proportionate to the different
nature of the two fibres.

The heckles used for hemp are somewhat coarser than those for flax.
The teeth of the coarsest are usually about an inch in cireumference
at bottom, diminishing gradually to a sharp point, and they are set
about two inches apart from each other. The produce of an acre of
land sown with this plant usually averages from four to five hundred-
weight of cleansed hemp, and from sixteen to twenty-four bushels of
seed. The culture of hemp is considered to be very profitable, and there-
fore, as we have observed when treating of flax, many attempts have
been made to encourage its further growth in England; but a great
prejudice formerly existed against this crop, and it was supposed to
exhaust the land to such a degree, that many landowners inserted in
the leases granted to their tenants covenants prohibiting its culti-
vation. ;

But under our present improved system of husbandry, and particu-
larly with reference to the seed when made into compound, upon
the same principle as linseed, to fatten cattle, its deteriorating effects
would be entirely obviated. Hemp seed affords a very useful oil,
similar in its qualities to linseed, and also cake, which is largely im-
ported, with the refuse of other oleaginous plants, roots, and nuts,
and sold to the farmers of this country under the new-fashioned name ~
of feed-cake.

297

FIRST ANNUAL REPORT OF THE NATIONAL FLAX AND AGRI-
CULTURAL IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION, READ BY MR. FAR-
ROW, HONORARY SECRETARY TO THE IPSWICH BRANCH, IN
THE TEMPERANCE HALL OF THAT TOWN, ON FRIDAY, THE
6th OF DECEMBER, 1844. PRESIDENT,—THE RIGHT HON. LORD

_ RENDLESHAM.

Iv offering the First Report of this Association, your Committee would
have to lament the general failure of the flax crop of the present year,
were it not for the reflection that the failure itself was attributable
solely to a dispensation of Providence, manifested in the protracted
drought ; solely, because in the preceding year several hundred acres
of flax were grown in Norfolk, Suffolk, and other counties, which,
from the continued rain, were, in most instances, too luxuriant.
Taking, therefore, into account the superabundance of rain on the one
hand, and the total want of it at the proper time on the other, it may
reasonably be assumed that, upon the average of seasons, the soil and
climate of England are well adapted to the growth of the important flax
plant.

~ But in lamenting the loss of the fibre on account of the employment
that it would have afforded, there is at least some cause for congratula-
~ tion on account of the quantity and quality of linseed preserved ;
a circumstance of vast importance to the undertaking, seeing that,
under present inexperience, the growers must mainly depend upon the
seed for remuneration. .
- However divided opinions may be as to the establishment of flax
culture through the fibre alone, the seed alone, or both, the advocates
have abundant cause to exult in the fact, that linseed compounds are
rapidly superseding foreign oil-cake to fatten cattle ; and that the sys-
tem of box-feeding and summer grazing is gradually extending in
Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Dorsetshire, and other counties, ensuring a
regular demand for linseed, such as will render it incumbent upon, if
not absolutely necessary for the British farmer, to supply from his own
resources. And as the seed cannot be obtained without the fibre, so
must the double crop be secured; the linseed being placed to the far-
mer’s account for fattening his cattle, and the fibre in juxta-position
with an unemployed population. Whether this fibre shall be used as
litter, and converted into manure, or appropriated to the employment
of the population, must be left to the common sense of the nation to
decide ; remembering that in 1840 alone 1,253,240 ewt. of flax were
imported from Russia, Denmark, Prussia, Cerinasy Holland, Belgium,

298

France, Italy, Turkey, Gibraltar, Egypt, and ae is to
say, in

YEARS. TONS.
1840. : . 62,662
1841. . 67,368
1842. . S61 0R ee
18438. ; : . 62,662

Remembering also that between five and six millions were, each year,
expended with foreigners for the raw material, which we, this day, give
you ocular proof can be grown and prepared at home.

Management during the past Year.

In order to obtain the most accurate information respecting the
treatment of the soil for receiving the seed, and the various processes
for securing the crop, and for the preparation of the stalks, Mr. Brown,
an experienced flax-grower of Norfolk, was engaged by the Ipswich
Branch to afford practical instruction in the sowing department ; Mon-
sieur Francis, from Belgium, in that of harvesting the crop, and of
preparing the fibre; and Hugh Elliot, from Ireland, as a general
working assistant; the result of whose services is placed before you
this day, as an earnest of future prospects; for if so much can be pro-
duced from an unfavourable season, greater benefits must arise from
seasons more congenial.

. The management of the soil and iienbanet of the crop in N orfolk
being now generally understood, as the specimens upon the table bear
ample testimony, one assistant only, Robert Twining, from Ireland,
was engaged by the branches in that county. Several hundreds of men,
women, and children, were employed during the busy seasons for
managing the flax stalks; many of whom, through the above-named
instructors, are in some degree able to become teachers themselves in
the various processes connected with pulling, stooking, tying, stacking,
thrashing, dressing, steeping, grassing, sorting, breaking, scutching,
scraping, &c. &c. And here the attention of the philanthropist is
directed to the fact, that, of the persons so employed, by far the major
part consisted of the weaker hands ; and that some hundreds of pounds.
were circulated amongst such ypeconmns as would otherwise have earned
nothing.

Saving the Seed.

Those prejudices so long entertained in favour of steeping flax with
the bolls, your Committee have the satisfaction of proving, by the
numerous specimens produced this day, were founded upon ignorance
of the proper management of the plant ; an opinion which is confirmed

299

by the following extract from the recent Report of the Irish Flax Im-
provement Association :— :

“A prejudice had formerly prevailed against saving the seed, from
an idea that it would injure the quality of the fibre. But almost every-
where through the country, this season, a large portion has been saved,

3 _ and the flax has not been at all deteriorated. From fully one-sixth of

the present crop the seed has been saved, and either used for feeding or
sold for the oil-mills ; the total value of which cannot be estimated at
less than from 60 to 80,000 pounds. It is believed that in a few years
all the seed of the Irish flax crop will be saved, and an addition thus
made to the resources of the country amounting to nearly half a million
per annum.”

The produce of seed in the counties of Norfolk, Suffolk, and Essex,
exceeds any accounts extant, as the 32 bushels per acre, grown by Mr.
Negus of Crimplesham, near Downham, Norfolk ; with the crops of
the Rey. T. C. Blair Warren, of Horkesley Hall; Mr. Piearson, of
Framlingham; Mr. Bear, of Paston, &c., varying from 20 to 29
bushels per acre, most clearly demonstrate. In closing this part of
their Report, your Committee refer to the above facts as indisputable
evidences that both seed and fibre can be profitably secured ; and that
the contrary opinion, at least under the improved system, is nothing
more than idle prejudice.

The exhausting effects of the Crop,

Or rather, your Committee would say, the restorative; for notwith-
standing the outcry of its deteriorating effects upon land, the multitu-
dinous instances to the contrary prove, that by a judicious introduction
into the rotation of crops, flax improves the soil; and that tales from
ancient writers upon this point tend only to deceive, as the following
circumstance clearly corroborates :—Several members of the North
Walsham Farmers’ Club entered into a sweepstakes to produce, on the
19th of December, the greatest weight of turnips from a given quantity
of land, without regard to soil or rotation. Mr. Playford, of North-
repps, selected a field that had produced an abundant crop of flax and
linseed the previous year, and exceeded the highest weight of his com-
petitors by 4 tons 15 ewt. Again, Mr. Atkinson, of Walcot, sold an
acre of flax and seed for 13/. 7s. 6d. last year, and in the present had
64 bushels of barley from the same acre, without the application of
manure. But the soundness of the above remarks will be seen by a
comparison between flax and corn; the straw only of the latter
being returned to the soil; while the seed of the former, being con-
sumed by cattle, is diffused over the whole farm in the shape of manure.

300

“Sb8I Ut Ajoroog remypnasy é

a ee

301

Nor ought the chaff from the bolls and broken stalks from the fibre to
be lost sight of, as they may be fairly set against the straw and chaff of
other crops.

Machinery.

Through the instrumentality of the National Association your Com-
mittee have the gratification of recording the introduction of the first
flax-scutching mill into England, and, at the same time, of the first
portable one into the world; and also a breaking machine, which are
described in the following extract from the Norwich papers :—

“ Flax.—The exhibition of the scutching mill and breaking machine
at Aylsham, last week, was numerously attended by gentlemen who
take an interest in the cultivation and manufacture of this important
plant. The mill resembles a small caravan or show, on opening the
doors of which three recesses, not unlike sentry boxes, are seen. These
are formed for the men to stand in while at work, and for their protec-
tion from the action of the swingles, which being placed upon an iron
axle and set in motion, strike the flax at the rate of about twelve hun-
dred times in a minute, the flax being held over boards placed perpendi-
cularly and attached to the frame-work. The breaker consists of four

Flax-Breaking Machine.

302

pairs of fluted rollers, placed upon a strong frame of wood. To these
“cogged wheels are fixed, which being attached by a rigger and strap to
the axle of the scutching mill, are set in motion by the same power.
Through the flutes of the rollers, which revolve into each other, the flax
is passed in small handfuls. ‘The woody part is thus loosened from the
fibre, and prepared for the scutching mill. The machines were worked
by horses, but can be attached to water-mills, &c., or propelled by
manual labour. The mechanism of both is simple, but the execution
considerable. The Rev. James Bulwer kindly allowed the use of his
barn, near the town, for the exhibition. At ten o’clock the operations
commenced, and continued to attract attention till three. The trial was
made with four sorts of flax. The first, very fine, grown by Mr. H.
Soames, of Aylsham ; the second, by the Right Hon. Lord Hastings; .
the third, by Mr. Smith, of Gunton; and the fourth, by Robert
Marsham, Esq., of Stratton Strawless. The only stalks tested by time
were two stones sent by Lord Hastings, which were broken in less than
two minutes, and scutched in seventeen. The mill was made by Mr.
Dyball, of North Walsham, and the breaker by Mr. Cubit, iron-
founder, of the same place, under the personal superintendence of Mr.
Warnes, who has thus improved upon the machinery which he inspected
in Ireland, and evinced his unabated perseverance in the promotion of a
cause which, if once established, must indisputably advance the agricul-
ture and home commerce of this country.” .

The difficulty of obtaining funds to defray the expenses of hand-
scutching by novices, suggested the idea of procuring machinery. A
deputation was, in consequence, sent to Ireland to inspect the flax
mills of that country, which resulted in the construction of the machines
to which allusion has just been made. How far their establishment in
England may be rendered permanent, it is impossible to predict. But
one circumstance is worthy of notice, viz.—that an application has al-
ready been made by the Irish Flax Improvement Society, for the dimen-
sions and other particulars of the portable scutching mill. We may
therefore fearlessly foretel the great utility of such machines in the
North of Ireland, where complaints are loud against the imperfect
management of flax at the stationary mills; and also to the South,
where the farmers are incapacitated for growing flax, by reason of
having no mills to prepare the fibre for market. To the Flax Improve-
ment Society of Ireland we are deeply indebted for our present ad-
vancement. The National Association would therefore rejoice, should
the plan of our mill prove, in any degree, a return for favours often
received.

4
-
_*
:

Hand-seutching.

By the introduction of machinery, the Association is far from de-
siring to supplant the original design of dressing flax by hand: for
they are of opinion that the finer descriptions of flax ought not to be
submitted to the operation of the mill, and strongly recommend the
formation of schools for the instruction of youths in the art of hand
seutching, sorting, and general management of the crop, at the Ipswich
and other Depéts connected with our Association.

Hand-spinning.

In the desire to promote. the spinning of linen yarn, no idea is enter-
tained of successful competition with flax-spinning mills; the object
being simply to introduce the wheel into Schools, Orphan Asylums,
Magdalen Institutions, and amongst that part of our population which
would earn nothing through any other means. For instance, the yarn
spun by the child of seven years—by a blind woman—and that, now in
the form of linen, by the children of fishermen, are all evidences of the
utility of spinning, when, by reason of age, infirmity, and other causes,
the parties would have been otherwise incapable of contributing towards
their own maintenance.

But with respect to those finer qualities of hand-spun yarn for which
our manufacturers of lace, muslin, lawn, cambric, &c. &c., pay many
thousands every year to foreigners, and which, it is believed, from the
peculiar nature of the fibre, that no machinery will ever be able to su-
persede—a wider field, for the establishment of a lucrative branch of
business, isopen. The Irish have already turned their attention to
this point, are giving prizes for the best yarns, and establishing spin-
ning schools, in one of which, under the patronage of Mr. Macartney,
of Lissanore Castle, or Mr. Birknell, agent to the Mercers’ Company,

304

twenty young women are now preparing to become teachers. Of these
interesting accounts, the beautiful specimens of fine yarn before us, sent
from the Sister Island, are confirmatory.

Information disseminated.

Every possible assistance has been afforded to the growers of flax
during the past year, through the personal attendance of the Belgian
and other competent instructors, as well as by the circulation of printed
directions for the management of both seed and stalks. A copy of the
extracts from ancient and modern authors on the flax crop, affording
more information in a condensed form than could be obtained from any
other work extant, was forwarded to each member of the National
Association. This pamphlet was published at the request of the Right
Hon. Lord Hastings, President of the West Norfolk branch; and when
the remaining copies are sold, the expenses of printing to our Associ-
ation will be trifling. The increasing spirit of inquiry respecting the
operations of your Society is evinced by the sale of, and demand for,
new editions of the Honorary Secretary’s Works on the Cultivation
of Flax, the Fattening of Cattle upon Native Produce, Box-feeding,
and Summer grazing. ‘The numerous inquiries from distant counties
have all been answered by the public and private letters of our Hon-
orary Secretary, by the correspondence of the Honorary Secretaries to
the branches, and by the visits of Mr Brown, especially into Oxford-
shire, the cost of which are not placed to the account of the National
Association.

_ Factorship.

Your Committee are of opinion that the establishment of District
Depots for the reception and preparation of the growers’ flax stalks un-
der the control of Societies, would tend greatly to the permanent intro-
duction of the crop. But when it is remembered that they must at first
be mainly conducted by foreign instructors, the prospect of affording
satisfaction to all parties would be doubtful. They are therefore dis-
posed to think that the formation ofa Joint Stock Company, with
branches attached, to purchase the crops, would be the more oe
expedient.

That our wealthy spinners would form a conspicuous part of a Joint
Stock Company, to encourage the native growth, can scarcely be
doubted ; because they now import flax to the amount of five or six
millions a year ; and are compelled to pay the exorbitant duty of forty
and sixty per cent. to Foreign States, before they will re-admit it in the
shape of yarn and linen.

It is worthy of observation, that the Messrs. Marshall of Leeds have,

305.

re Antwerp, a aie establishment for the preparation of flax, such
as, if formed in every county of England, would at once ensure to the

_. growers a ready market for their crops. Also, it ought to be remem-

bered, that the above gentlemen were the earliest instigators to perse-
verance in our present undertakings, holding themselves in readiness
to assist as circumstances may require. Other eminent spinners and
flax agents in London, Liverpool, Belfast, &c., are watching our move-
ments with a view to further our cause.

_ Mr. Demann, from Belgium, is extensively engaged in purchasing
flax, and in preparing it with Belgian and English hands, at North
Walsham. Through this means many youths have been, and are still
being taught the art of hand-scutching. Mr. Brown, of Trimingham,

4 _ and Mr. Harlee Playford, of North Repps, purchased several acres, and

rivalled the Belgians themselves in the various arts of preparation, Mr.
_ Farrow also, in conjunction with the Ipswich Branch, is working out
a few acres by way of experiment, whose flax, under the superior hina?
ling of Monsieur Francis, merits the highest commendation.

Value of the Fibre.

’ Your Committee regret that they cannot at present offer any defi-
nite accounts of net profit upon this part of the crop, except that pub-
lished by the Hon. W. R. Rous, who obtained a profit of 9/. 4s. clear
of all expenses from an acre of land, exclusive of the seed. Mr. De-
~ mann avoids all disclosures of profit; and the gentlemen above referred
to have as yet effected no sales of importance. But the statements re-
lative to the flax crops in general may be considered highly satisfactory.
Mr. Warnes has sold no flax at a less rate than 44/. per ton. At this
price he has enabled certain twine-spinners, in the neighbourhood of
Cromer and Lowestoft, to compete successfully with foreign hemp for
the manufacture of fishing nets. In one particular instance, a sinking
trade has not only been revived, but enlarged beyond its original ex-.
tent, on account of the superiority of the flax twine, samples of which,
with others of hemp, are now submitted to public inspection. Many
thousand tons of hemp are annually consumed upon the coast, which,
if superseded by native flax, a door would be opened to a, new and lu-
erative branch of business. Mr. Warnes is sanguine upon this point,
because he considers that an acre of good land will produce fifty stone
of this description of flax upon the average of years, and twenty-two
bushels of linseed; realizing, at 5s. 6d. per stone for the flax, and 6s. 3d.
per bushel for the seed, 20/., or, after deducting all expenses, from 7/.
to 101.
‘Mr. Barcham, of Antiagham, had two tons fifteen ewt. of stalks, and

twenty-two bushels of fine sowing seed, from an acre of land. The
x

306

former he sold at 3/. per ton, and part of the latter at 7s. 6d. per bushel,
amounting altogether to above 15/. the common expenses of harvesting
the crop and thrashing out the seed being only incurred. A — list
of similar cases might be added did space permit.

Value of the seed.

Under this head it is impossible to offer an adequate estimate, because
every account that has yet reached your Committee has invariably
sroved that linseed, formed into compounds, according to Mr. Warnes’
system, surpasses every other for fattening cattle. The following extract,
taken from the Norfolk papers, shows that the greatest pains have been
taken to test the merits of native against foreign produce :-—

‘“¢ The North Walsham Farmers’ Club offered, by a challenge through
the Norwich and London Papers, to test the merits of the compound
with oil-cake, which challenge not being accepted, Mr. Postle of
Smallburgh determined to try the experiment upon his own premises.
Twelve bullocks being selected, and divided into two lots by competent
judges, were weighed and placed in separate yards; one lot to be fed
on native produce at a fixed amount per week, and the other on foreign
oil-cake at the same cost. Each lot to be allowed as many turnips,
previously weighed, as they could eat per day, in order that the most
accurate account, both of quantity and cost for food consumed, might
be kept. ;

‘During the course of the experiment, every facility was afforded
the public to. inspect the cattle and the new mode of grazing. In due
time Mr. Postle advertised the day on which his bullocks were to be
shown and weighed at Norwich. Numbers from distant parts came to
see them, and, in order to arrive at the most correct conclusion, he sold
all the twelve to one butcher.

‘“‘ When first selected, the six beasts fed on compound weighed 602
stone, and those on oil-cake 590 stone. When fat, the live weight of
the former was 725 stone ; of the latter, 705 stone, being a difference
of 8 stone (the 12 stone over-weight at the first being deducted) in
favour of those fed on compound. But it was in the dead weight of
each lot that the greatest difference was shown—the compound-fed
yielding 44 stone 9 Ibs. of meat more than those fed on oil-cake ; but
taking the loose fat and hides, the difference in favour of the former
was 50 stone.6 Ibs. or 38 stone 6 lbs.—deducting the 12 stone original
extra live weight. While there is this increase of meat, there is a con-
siderable decrease of expense between those fed on home produce, and
those fed on foreign oil-cake. The former consumed a smaller quantity
of turnips than the latter; and the cost of the compound was only
19/. 6s. 13d., whilst that of the oil-cake was 217. 14s. 9d.

307
“The public are much indebted to Mr. Postle for the great care

with which this experiment has been carried through, and for the

pains taken to procure an accurate and eer statement of the
_ result.”

From the above experiment some idea may be formed of the direct
advantages to be derived from the use of linseed. But no calculation
can be made of the indirect advantages arising from fattening cattle
‘upon native produce, nor from the diffusion of manure thus obtained, as
every description of farm produce yields a heavier crop where manure
from compound-fed cattle has been applied.

Finances.

The want of funds may be considered the only real cause of com-
plaint ; for, while the advancement in every other department has ex-
ceeded the anticipations of the most sanguine advocates, and astonished
every attentive observer, the subscriptions have not been adequate
to the expenditure of the year. The usefulness of the Society has,
consequently, been greatly retarded. Much of the present and past
years’ crops of flax could not be prepared for the want of proper
local establishments and instructors, and thus many hundreds of the
‘poor were prevented from earning wages through that source of
employment. For the correctness of this statement, your Committee
need only refer to the present holders of flax, and to the numbers
of persons employed in those parishes where the preparation of the
fibre has been carried on. That a cause so truly patriotic should
languish for want of funds, be subjected to cold neglect, and incon-
siderate opposition, is deeply to be regretted; a cause that involves
employment for the redundant population, and a remedy for the dis-
tresses of the people. Ata time, too, when the unemployed poor are
reduced to a state of wretchedness unparalleled in the history of this
country ; to alleviate which, expressions of the deepest anxiety pervade,
not only the Councils of the State, but the discussions of Agricultural
Meetings from one end of the kingdom to the other. The Legislature
avow their inability to meet the difficulty ; and every proposition to
remove the prevailing distress, though emanating from the most influ-
ential and talented quarters, proves ineffectual.

Conclusion.

From the abundant materials placed before him, your Secretary
drew up this report. It is submitted to the ordeal of the strictest
serutiny. The inquirer will discover that every attempt at exaggera-
‘tion has been carefully avoided, and that many corroborative instances
might have been added.
But, if the linseed and flax exhibited at the present meeting, with
x2

308

eattle fattened upon native produce, fail to convince, then your Com-
mittee must observe, that proofs however clear, and arguments how-
ever forcible, would be unavailing. But they anticipate a happier
result, because it is impossible for the Christian observer not ‘to per-
ceive that the hand of Providence has opened the doors of maintenance
through the introduction of the flax crop. Upon us devolves the
duty of rendering that crop subservient to the claims of the labouring
classes ; and, in proportion as that duty is performed, so will be the
benefits derived. The sums required are extremely small compared to
the magnitude of the undertaking. A mere per centage on the money
annually raised for foreign charities, would suffice to find employment
for thousands of our countrymen, and to secure to the cottager that
peace and independence which can alone be obtained through constant
work at adequate wages.

Joun WaRNnEs, Jun., Hon. Sec.
Trimingham, Norfolk, December, 1844. Ba

¢

309

~ aps

A REMEDY FOR THE DISTRESSES OF THE CITY OF
~~ NORWICH, ADDRESSED TO THE INHABITANTS.

In dling this tract for your serious consideration, I — addressing
any particular party ; because the interests of every class of the com-
munity are involved in the subject of which it treats.
© The affecting recitals of the deplorable state of your poor, at the
recent meeting in the Guildhall ;—the acknowledgment that no effec-
tual relief could be afforded except by the introduction of new sources
_ of employment ;—the earnest expression of a hope that some remedial
measures would be adopted ;—the assurances of zealous co-operation in
the establishment of new branches of business ;—and my Own persuasion
that: the Linen Trade, with its numerous: ramifications, would meet
every difficulty ; impel me no longer to defer the renewal of the propo-
sitions contained in my Letter addressed* to the Citizens of Norwich,
fifteen months ago. I annex that letter, because the opinions I then
formed have undergone no change ; and: because careful investigation
has only confirmed the soundness of the arguments therein contained,
» In addition to my former suggestions, I now propose the erection of
a Flax-spinning Mill that would employ many hundreds of persons of
all ‘ages, and thus render success doubly sure.

* By those who. have: never bestowed five minutes’ consideration upoii
the subject, my plans may be pronounced presumptuous and chimerical.
But it ought to be remembered, that they emanate from five years of
practical research, of which the two last had especial reference to the
peculiar circumstances of Norwich. Opportunities have long been
afforded me of acquiring information as to the real condition of the
unfortunate operatives. But I refrain from particularizing cases of
distress as incentives to effort; experience having proved that such
recitals, oft repeated, harden rather than soften the heart. |
» The public papers have exposed the horrors consequent upon the
want of employment and of adequate wages, in terms too authentic to
be disputed, and in colours too vivid to be forgotten. To the speeches
of the mayor and other gentlemen at the late meeting, and to the state-
ments of Mr. Johnson in particular, I refer as proofs; 1st, that Nor-
wich has been for years, and is now, in a worse state than any other
manufacturing town in England: and 2ndly, as overtures, though
indirect, to submit the merits of my proposed remedy to the ordeal of
a searching inquiry+-an inquiry, which I claim upon the grounds of
: * See No. 7, page 169.

310

the philanthropic professions made upon that occasion ; and also, upon
those fundamental principles of Christianity which enjoin the duty of
bearing, of hoping, and of believing all things.

The deepest anxiety to ameliorate the condition of thetr suffering
neighbours, is also expressed by every class of society in the city.
Private assemblies and public congregations have long invoked the aid
of the Deity, and all parties seem disposed to merge their differences
in one common effort to emancipate the operatives from their present
degraded state. But how to obtain this desideratum remains a problem
that the most ardent inquirer has failed to solve.

- Consider, therefore, dispassionately, whether the Linen Trade is not
the answer, vouchsafed by Providence, to many prayers ?

To your hope and charity add faith; and be not like the disciples
of our Lord, who, while engaged in fervent supplications for the deli-
verance of Peter, charged with madness the messenger who conveyed
the happy tidings of his safe arrival !

550 Ibs. of dressed flax will produce 16,500 hanks of yarn, or 210
webs of cambric pocket handkerchiefs, each web containing 5 dozen, at
21. 10s. per doz. ; employing for about 12 months 158 female spinners,
40 hem-stitchers or veiners, and 18 weavers, whose wages at the pre-
sent time in Ireland amount to 2,195/., while the cost for the raw
material is only 75/., leaving a balance of 354/. in favour of the manu-
facturer, and affording a larger amount of wages, and of profit from so
small an outlay, than can be derived from any other source ; therefore,
those hopes, so admirably expressed by Mr. Towler, are easy of realiz-
ation, and centre in the manufacture of linen: ‘* A trade, not of a
fleeting character,” but permanent as time itself, and one in which the
principal “‘ part of the production is the labour of men.” Can any
thing be more congenial to the wishes of that gentleman, than the intro-
duction of this prolific branch of business? or to those enlarged and
generous views of Mr. Gurney, who observed, that ‘‘ He would do any
thing in his power to introduce the manufacture of new fabrics into the
city, and to promote enterprise, and the application of capital to the
legitimate employment of the inhabitants.”

The manufacture of linen is attended by more than twenty sources
of employment for the human hand, independent of field labour. ** The
Mule and Iron Man” cannot in this, as in cotton manufactures, dis-
place the hand-loom weaver. ‘The services of both youth and age are
appreciated ; and the ingenious find ample scope for the exercise of their
skill, in the varied departments of the Heckling-rooms and Spinning-
mill—the Store-houses and Factory—the Boiling-house and Bleaching
grounds—until the Lapper decorates his web with golden leaf. This
last operation gives the finishing stroke to that new and permanent
branch of business, which, if once introduced, would, I repeat, find

311

employment for your redundant population, profitable investment for
capital, and be the means of renovating trade, and of restoring pros-
perity to the city.

Phat, individual wealth and enterprise could accomplish this vast
- good I have no. doubt, because many opulent and indefatigable manu-
facturers of the North employ, it is said,"more hands than could be
obtained at the Norwich labour-market—the market to which your own
manufacturers resort, and by which they regulate the rate of wages.
This Mr. Willett clearly and candidly explained. ‘‘ The first thing,”
he observed, ‘‘ was to have all the people employed, and the natural
consequence would follow of a higher rate of wages ; but if there were

more operatives than were required, wages would fall.”

It is evident that the present depressed state of Norwich is mainly
: attributable to the low rate at which the working classes are paid. It
is also evident that, until the labour-market is cleared of surplus hands,
: it will be impossible to remedy the evil. Therefore, it becomes the
duty, as well as the interest of every inhabitant, to find employment
for the redundant population.

_» But, as it cannot be expected that any individual of sufficient wealth,
zeal, and devotion, would embark in such an undertaking, I propose,
as the, only alternative, that a Linen Company, embracing the spinning,
weaving, and bleaching departments of the trade, be formed, and sup-
ported for three or four years by the voluntary contributions of a

philanthropic public. The Company to erect.the Spinning-mills, Boil-
ing-house, Machinery, &c. &c., and find Capital for purchasing

Stock, payment of Wages, &c. The voluntary fund to be appropriated
to the defrayment of all expenses consequent upon instruction, altering
of hand-looms, inexperience, &c. &c.

_ » Thus protected from loss through incidental expenses, moneyed parties
would come forward, and the Linen Trade be established; or some
opulent spinner might be induced by a guarantee of five hundred a
a year, for four years, to open a branch to his business in the city, and
thus. by the payment of only one shilling each from the 10,000 rate-
payers originally assessed, the Norwich operatives may be emancipated
from their worse than Egyptian bondage.

«Were I able to state the amount of money required, either to sup-
port or to conduct the various branches in question, it would, at pre-
sent, be unnecessary ; but my desire is to induce, through the medium
of this Tract, a searching inquiry, from which, I am confident, the
happiest results would flow.

-osLowill, however, observe, that the number of surplus hands is by no
“means so great as imagination depicts; that the sums required to em-
ploy them, in the way proposed, are comparatively trifling ; that there

312

are no real obstacles; and that nothing is wanted to insure success but °
unity, upon the ground of our common Christianity. : gh

The performance of an imperative duty would preclude seag even
in the case of failure; but it is impossible that profit should not be
obtained ; for employment lessens rates, and inereases the value of every
description of property. Therefore, the introduction of the Linen
Trade into Norwich would be profitable to the people, by providing
them with work at adequate wages; profitable to the householder,
by redueing poor rates; and: profitable to the tradesman by the in-
ereased consumption of all the common necessaries of life.

For the Butcher, the Baker, and the Grocer, the Draper, the Shoe-
maker, and the Tailor, would all experience an increase of custom,
with a decrease of rates; while the value of real property would be
proportionably advanced. So indisputable is the fact, that inadequate
wages lower profits, create expenses, and inflict upon trade a double
blow. Nor ought the minor craftsmen, who depend solely upon the
operatives, to be forgotten, as the following case demonstrates : About
fifteen months ago, one of the weavers sent to Trimingham to learn
the art of flax-dressing, had nine children. His eldest daughter was
married to a Tailor, and one of his sons was a Shoemaker, both of
whom were in danger of becoming parish charges, on aceount of the
inability of the operatives to purchase either shoes or clothes. Simi
larly circumstanced are all small tradesmen whose subsistence depends
upon the working classes. Hence it will be seen that when the opera-
tives are in adversity, all the dependent branches of trade suffer with
them. These are innumerable ; therefore, I repeat, it ought to be our
care to support the main stem, which is the operative, and then we may
be sure that all the depending branches will flourish with it. Many
of your once prosperous population are living upon a scanty supply of
provisions, and therefore consume but little farm-produce. Could
their circumstances be reversed, Norfolk would derive proportionable
advantages; and any plans adopted for the benefit of Norwich, the
-Landowners and Agriculturists would doubtless consider it their in-
terest and duty to support.

In conclusion, I cannot avoid expressing my’ belief, that this tract
will be perused with attention ; and that those, at least, who have the
welfare of the city at heart, will not be slow to institute an inquiry into
the soundness of my propositions, nor in chavs hihi’ measures
. for carrying them out.

I hope that none will be turned aside from the performance of this
good work, either on account of their want of information upon the
subject, or through the suggestions of parties interested in prolonging
the depression of the labour-market. A little help is worth more than
a world of pity. Remember also that the way of Providence has ever

313

been to produce the greatest results from the smallest beginnings ;

and that He chooses, as his instruments, ‘“‘ The weak things of the

__ world,” to bring about his great designs; in order that “The excel-
4 lathe: of the power might be of God and not of Man.”

Sewcngdaia I have the honour to remain,
age Four obedient and faithful servant,
Pe , Joun WARNES, Jun.
Trimingham, April 5th, 1845.
~oba) € y
NOTE.

ee

A ‘rH0UsAND copies of this tract were circulated, principally amongst
the most influential parties in the city.
» Soon after, a deputation was sent by Joseph John Gurney, Esq., of

__ Earlham Hall, to Leeds for the purpose of collecting information on

the subject ; and several new and expensive looms, with other machinery,
were in consequence, erected. 3
_ Thus, at the sole expense of the above named gentleman, the linen
trade was introduced into Norwich. But, through the apathy of those
intrusted with the management of the business, success is for the pre-
sent retarded.
us et inspected this incipient establishment myself, and am convinced
nothing is required but a zealous and patriotic co-operation to
isu the realization of the benefits comprised in Mr. Gurney’s

314

FLAX SPINNERS AND AGENTS OF ENGLAND.

Leeds. Manchester —continued.
1. Messrs. Marshalls : Messrs. meri & oie e
20 Benyon & Co. : of : igginson, ine-
3. 5, Hives & Atkinson ane
4

Hargrave, Brothers, Preston.

99

& Co. 1. Messrs. Paley & Sons

” E. & J. Tatham Sears Newham & Co.

Be McCrea & Marshall . Dewhurst & Co.
4

5

6.

aaa Wilkinsons » » Spicer, Buxton, &
8

2

Aa Holeworths Ca:
4 Titley, Tatham, & eae German,Petty, &Co.
ws rcs? wie eats Hinckman & Furness
, as rown 0.
TUPHiey Boyle & Gill Kirkman.
12 Mark Walker & Messrs. Bailey & Sons a
Sons
13. ,, John Margitt Bentham.
14. .,, 6) Wm, Hill & Co. Messrs. Homby & Roughsedge
By) Wm. Hill & Co.
BGs cf rigs Alfred Cannon & Co.’ Liverpool.

SP aGiiw Sale, Cannon, & Co. 1. Mr, Wm. Winn

2. Messrs. Horner & Bell
18. Mr. Peter Fairbairn, Ma- pol aed Ca,

chine-maker ae Hugh & Tout
. Hornby
Ripon.
| Whitehaven.
Messrs. J. & G. Metcalf, Pately | Messrs. Joseph Bell & Co.
Bridge |
Wigan.
Wesbhertey: | Messrs. Rylands & Sons
1, Mr. John Brooks | Yealand- Burton.

2. Messrs. Wm. Renshaw & Co. Messrs. Waithman & Co.

_ Andrew Mulholland and Son
§. K. Mulholland and Hinds
John Murphy and Co.

- James Bromer and Co.
Forsythe and Orr

W. J. Moore

- Hull, Wilson, and Co.
James Montgomery and Son
Stewart and McClelland
*Thomas Churnside and Co.
Robert Thompson and Co.
vg William Mulholland
Falls, Mill, and Co.

John Boyd and Co.
_ A.W. Craig
John Fisher and Co.

a J.and J, Herdman and Co.
James Kennedy and Son
Robert McKibbin

_ * William Ewart and Son
_ *Robert Gunning and Co.
James Murray

Daniel Morgan |
Whitehouse.
James Grimshaw and Son
Balls and Calvert
Monkstown Spinning Co.
Edmund Grimshaw

gl Whiteabbey.
q William Cowan and Co.
a Picge Carrickfergus.
«RR. and A. Gamble

IRISH FLAX AND TOW SPINNERS.

Belfast.

William Walker
Wood and Dobson
James Patterson

Broughshane
A. and J. Davison
Ballymoney.
C. and G. Allen
Ballyclare
Lyle and Little

Doagh.
James Swan

Kluchamore,
Robert Wallace

Ballymena.
John Young and Co. -

Londonderry.
John Munn, Junior
John Leathen

; Bunerana.
Samuel Alexander

Strabane.
Herdmans and Co. —

Dungannon.
J. McClelland

Kendy.

James Green and Co.

316

Newry.

J.N. eeerertens, Sons, and Ow-
den
William is

Banbridge.

Samuel Law
F. W. Hayes

Gilford.
Dunbar, McMaster, and Co.
Castlewellan.
James Murland
Killileugh.
John Martin, Jun.
Dunmurry.

*Hunter and Moate

Portadown,
*John Cuppage and Co.

Lisburn.

Stewart and Savage
Samuel Richardson and Co,

Cookstown.
Adair Gunning and Co.
Glasgow and Wood

Celbridge.
Shaw and Houghton
Joseph Shaw

Chapelizod.
Thomas Crosthwait and Sons

Drogheda.

Caity, Cairnes, Rogers, and Co. ?
Mall, Mill, and Co. ee
Gradnell, Chaswick, and Co.

Navan.
Francis Blundell

Randalstown.
Patrick Macaulay

FLAX MERCHANTS AND AGENTS.

Belfast.

Richardson, Brothers, and Co.
John Preston and Co.

Henry Campbell

Josias Cunningham and Co.
Charles Duffin and Co.
Edwatd Shaw and Co.

J. R. Newsam

Hunter and McK isack

Joseph Lowry

John Hunter, Jun., and Co.

Londonderry, .
Patrick Gillmour
Osborne, Alien, and Co.
J. and J. Cooke
Armagh.
H. Dickson

Markethiil.
John Hutcheson

Belfast.
David Connor

'
:
;
:

Advan

| INDEX TO THE PREFACE.
Anti-corn-law ae opposition of, vi.
Benefits derived, iv.

versus steaming or baking, viii.

- Boxes, adoption of, vi.

d versus patent cakes, viii.

Cotton versus flax, vii. ix.
Fields, half cultivated, ix.
Flax versus cotton, vii. ix.

— versus Gold of Pleasure, vii.

"—— how much to be sown, oF

— culture, moral effects of, xii.

prices incompatible, i ix.

’ Tae fekwation of, xii.

Instruction, where afforded, xii.
I Flax Company, xi
itions, unavoidable relation of, iv.

na Origin of te present, flax-movement, vi.
it, avowed inability of, i.

Pauperism, deliverance from, i.
People re requirements of, ix.
cal instruction, necessity of, v.
blem, how solved, x.
overruling power of, xii.
, bane of, x.
eat, and poor, to “sae committed, ix.

Soils, which favourable to flax, xi.
Bh case of the flax plant, v.

‘Anne, number of, to supply the home
market wi th flax, 52

tages, direct and indirect, of lin-

seed, 131; of a quick return, 135

Tawoeates for the compound, who be-

came, 59

Agricaltare drawback on, 1

Itural nostrums and fallows, 280
iving, evil effects of, 174

Apparatus required, 233

Archimedes, screw of, 274

_ Afguments against a high price of wheat,

a79%
Argyll, agriculture of, 79

_ Armagh, flax-market, 172

Arrangements, preliminary, 164

__ Association, National fees where pro-

posed, 164

INDEX.

Babel, completion of, 288

Babylon, rebuilding of, 288

Baker, Mr., of Aele, 146

Balance in favour of a quick return, 135

Baltic provisions not superior, 62

Barker, James, Esq.; important letter: of,
235

Barren lands, and poor-rates, 173

Bean stalks, 251

Belgians, successful employment of, 57

Belgian workmen, arrival of, 141; pro-
fits, 103

Belgian system indispensable, 271

Benefits acknowl 274

Bickes, Mr., fatal discovery of, 279

Bishop of Norwich, 40

Blacker, not Baker, Essay of, 146

Blair Warren, Rey. J. C., boxes of, 132

Boxes, cost of, 150; speedy repayment
for, 150; description of, 150; advan-
tages of, 129-154; erection of, -for
tenants, 178; cost of, to the tenant,
243; partition-rails, plate of, 152;
plans of, between 135 and 140

Box-feedin system, nes of Sir
C. Burrell, 132

Breaking, 99

British husbandry, advantages of, to Ire-
land, 12 f

Buccleuch, Duke, remarks of, 133

Bullocks, experiment, 121 ; loss by graz-

128

oe Mr., patriotic remarks of, 254

Burrell, Sir Charles, ke3 40.2

Burroughes, William, Esq., 22

Buxton, Sir T. F., Bart.; 22

Cake, psa wat absurdity of, 120 ;
composed of foreign rubbish, 125

Calves, rearing in summer, 181; weight
of, 134

Cambric, management of the soil for, 82

Cattle, number of, fattened with com-
pound, 208; rearing of, 180; profit-
able for, 249; fattened. with linseed-
oil, 120; returned fat every six months,
122

Cattle-boxes, drawing of, 150 and 151

Cattle-compound, opposition to, 59

Cheap bread and cheap meat explained,
224

318

Children, use of, 142
Christian philanthropy,recognition of, 167
Climate, congeniality of, 10
Cobbett, Mr., reference to, 148; misera-
ble adherents of, 148
' Cobden, Mr., opposition to the flax
cause, 266; weapon against free-trade,
267; want of patriotism, 268; invited
to Trimingham, 269
Compound, no general rule for, 209;
intrinsic value of, 233; of turnip-tops,
&c., 234; cost per ton, 237; effects of,
proved, 13; superior to oil-cake, 29;
price of, 48; when first invented, 121;
receipt for sheep, 1223 for bullocks,
122; of germinated barley, 124; of
potatoes, 124; of turnips, 124; supe-
rior to cake, 125; for ewes and store-
stock, 134
Consumption, how regulated, 1
Converts to the cause, 178
Coppers superior to steamers, 237
Corn, free-trade in, 147 :
Correspondence between the Hon. W.
R. Rous and Mr. Warnes, 44
Cost of preparing flax, 51
Cotton versus Flax, 270
Country, welfare of, 23
Crates for steeping, 113
Crimes prevented, 227
Crops of flax grown upon heath-land,
173; never failing, 231; the most
valuable, 116
Damask linen, 33
Demagogue, term explained, 147, 148
‘Difficulties, remedy where sought, 145 ;
surmounted, 272
Directions for preparing the land, 263
Drying, 98
Dutch, superiority of, 63
Dutch system, ill successof, 95
Duty of honest inquiry, 163
Dyball’s hay and grass cutter, plate of,
between 135 and 140 ©

Edmonds, Mr., letter of, 101

Employment, want of, a Hydra, 6; for
80 classes, 11

Enactments, how controlled, 16

Enfranchisement of copyholds, 2

English Flax Society, first suggestion
of, 120 :

English versus Foreign Poor, 4

English gentleman, rise and fall of, 4

Enjoyments, whence derived, 6

Ewes, 21 score, fed with linseed at the
rate of a penny per day per score, 133

Exhaustion explained, 64

Experience, necessity of, 140

Experiment proposed between Turnips,
Flax, and Peas, 258

Experiments, how to be made, 54

Extract from Burn’s “Home Coloniza-
tion,’ 49; from Library of Useful
Knowledge, 107

Facts, invitation to consider, 292

Fears, how calmed, 2 :

Farm produce, good return for, 250

Farmer, the best, 129

Farmers, indirect importers, 127; ad-
verse to trouble, 158; governed by
reason, 159 ;

Farmers’ Herald, extract from, 264

Fattening, degrees of, 130

Failures, 67; in the use of linseed, 146

Fashion, change of, to whom fatal, 175

Flax Association, requirements of, 8 ;
Report of, 297 ; Improvement Society,
origin of, 119

Flax, introduction ,of the Romans,
10; produce from ordinary land, 39 ;
a double crop; 10-58; a golden crop,
11-119; properties of, 16; chaff, food
for cows, 17; grown on ordinary
wre 38 ; esr effects of, ex-
plained, 58; first prepared specimen
of, 19-141; intiiort ail ntages of,
59; value of, at Tandragee market,

34; as a fallow crop, 275; intro-
duced into England, by whom, 56;
an incentive to the cultivation of waste
lands, 61; not to be sown after tur-
nips, 101; after turnips and white
peas, 103; caps, necessity of, 114;
scutching-mill, plate of, 300; ditto
ready for travelling, 303; breaki
machine, plate of, 301; caps, plate o:
114, ripplers, plate of, 115; 5
plate of, 116; stook, plate of, 142;
fork, three-pronged, plate of, 159-5
suited to garden culture, not recom-
mended, 207; spinners, anxiety of,
227; culture profitable, without the
possibility of loss, 252; dressers, em-
ployment of, 253; soils, most con-
genial for, 256; entire management
of, easy, 262 ;

Flax Cause, success of, 46 »

Flax Crop, national advantages of, 155 ;
versus wheat, 140; value of, two-fold,
143; disposal of, 143; value of, in
Belgium, 144; value of, in Somerset,
144; value of, in Ireland, 144;-
ave value of, 144; value of, in
Norfolk, 144; gross mismanagement
of, 247; as green food, 247°

Flax Societies recommended, 37 :

Flemish husbandry, outlines of, 118 - ”

Flies excluded from the boxes, 249

Foreign reciprocity, 231 sba

Food, demanded by the nation, 29;
from home resources, 128

Foreign cake, consumption of, im West
Norfolk, 126

319

Fruitful fields and splendid factories,
Rs ox

Gentleman of Dorsetshire, opinion of,

89. .on¢ 2
Gold of Pleasure, worthlessness of, 283 ;
Sir James Smith’s opinion, 284; used
for brooms, &c. in Belgium, but
_ mever. il ot poecone 285; a perni-
_ cious weed, compared to the inestima-
4 be fa t, 286 5 owt nauseous taste of,
rape-cake, fit only for
manure, 290 ; failure of, 245; not
a susie for flax, 245°
vel offer of, 55
| versus asi =.
Grass, economy 29; versus turni
156; be ag of, per acre, 157 ; cama
_ ment with, 157
Gratitude, to whom due, 2
reat Britain, advantages of, 63
cpt J lo and elevation of Mr. War-
_nes' boxes, 150

Bani’ Joom weavers, 265
s, number

eS impolicy of —. 157 ;
re Hew. 294-296 ; Engh superiority of,
ee nant do not impoverish, 102
: . statement of, 94

= bi graziers, 146
Be and, not ye Sa 62
versus foreign production, 4
omespun, Samuel, letter of, 67
importance of, 154
ity and religion enforced, 116
I ‘has but little leisure, 227

pine why encouraged, 6; of for-
__ mer ages, 262

n ts removed, 58

mplements for dressing flax by hand,
plates of, placed ee) nay ad
Impolicy of striving for fine 208

‘ fn t inferences, 276
Importation, 127

Jeporet culture, benefit of, to Ireland,

ion obtained from Ireland, 291
Injury ry b a afforded, 99
: 2, 4 a
Instructors, Bel
Ipswich, 164 ; 3 es Club, advertise-
ment of, 291
Ireland, advancement of, 149

4 Tish mers compensated, 280
; generosity of, 11

Knowledge freely disseminated, 279

Labour, the pe. of all institu-
tions, 33; demand for increased, 153 ;
successful results of, 165-166 ; money,
and land lost, 173

Labour-market regulated, 258; depress-
ed state of, 218-227; overstocked
with weaker hands, 253

Labourers, why immured in Union-
houses, 5; misery of, 169 ; and opera-
tives, how sacrificed, 229

Land, benefited by flax, 38; of our fore-
fathers, 50; preparation’ of, 96; ex-
penses u n, 230. . *

Lands, drainage of, 2

Landlord and tenant, 258

Landlord’s desire to assist his tenants,
257.

Laws, Poor, fatal to wages, 5

Legislators, duty of, 3

Legislature, failure of, to promote the
growth of flax, 57

Letter on the use of linseed, 130

Lincoln, agriculture of, 86

Linen, the permanency of, 7; versus
cotton, 176

Linseed, value of to the British farmer,
7-142; not proper to fatten pigs, 130 ;
substitute for milk, 130; productive-
ness of, 13-25; economical use of,
135; superiority of, 82; quantity de-
stroyed, 58; and oil-cake, price of, 48 ;
preservation of, 140; not to be sold,
145; as food for horses, 183; expen-
sive if not crushed, 235 ; advantages of
one pound per day, 235 ; destroyed,

277

Linseed-crusher, plate of, follows 135

List of flax-spinners, merchants, agents,
and machine-makers, 314-316

Localities for steeping, 114

London public meeting, 258

Loss by over-fattening, 180

Lucern and potatoes, 130, 156

Mainspring of all trade, 209

Manure, 21; source of national wealth,
154; and “employment eminently sup-
plied, 279.

Manures, outlay for, 128

Marshall & Co., letter of, 100; second
letter of, 103; conference with, and
recommendation of, 141

Meal, ground fine, necessity of, 124

Mental power, exercise of, 167

Methods, four, of pulling and steeping,
115

Midnight depredations, causes of, 6

Millions, circulation of, in wages, 226 ;
of tons of cattle-food, how to obtain,
128

Mone

Moul
123

, home circulation of, 261
for making compound cakes,

320

Movement simultaneous in Teland and
at Trimingham, 262

Mule and iron-man, 8, 167

Multitudes neglected and forgotten, 169

Native produce, superior to foreign,
proved, 160-163

Native resources, investigation of, impe-
rative, 134

Nicholls, George, Esq., Poor-law Com-
missioner, benevolence of, 281

Norfer, Mr., 21

Norfolk Flax Society, rise of, 14; first
Annual Meeting of, 26; who present,
27; opening speech, 28 ; fall of, 41;
dying embers of, 46

North Walsham Farmers’ Club, Report
of, 12, 121

Nuts, &c., ground and formed into cakes,
126

Norwich, a retail shop, 170; operatives,
fate of, 170; skill of, 171; linen trade
for, 171

Occupiers, duty of, 134

Oil-cake, inferiority of, 120; versus bar-
ley, 127

Operatives, suring. of, 3; their pros-
perity delusive, 3

Opposition defeated, 49

Origin of the Flax Cause, 24

Partridge, H. C., Esq., speech of, 38

Partridge, H. S., " Esq., premises of, 132

Patents, pernicious effects of, 146

Patriot, 19

Pauperism, the disgrace of, 227

Peas, boiled, 237; sowing of, 249

Peel, Sir Robert, "letter of, to Mr. Mac
Adam, 282

People, happy with low rates, 281; ge-
nius of, 255 ; cry of, for employment, 7

Performance of good works, 33 ; pro-
duce, quantity of, 112

Permanent benefits, rejection of, 177

Perth, agriculture of, 71

Philanthropist, 20

Philosopher, Christian, 20

Philosopher’s stone, 209

Planters, honest account of, 92

Playfair, Dr., theory of, 183

Points, 13; worthy of investigation, 65

Poland, fate of, 55

Policy ‘of sowing fallow land with flax,
beans, and peas, 251

Poor, wants of real, 2; a voice for, 55

Poor-rates, reduction of, 47

Population, increase of, 54-115; em-
ployment of, beyond the power of
Government, “140; employment of
universal, 1413; redundant, not to be
found, 153 ; overwhelming, 140

Potatoes, stinted meal of, 2

Power-loom, not adapted for linen, 265

Prejudices, removed, 48, 185-190

Produce, of flax from ordinary land, 251;
home consumption of, 31 x

Production, spontaneous, 4 —

Profit from seven bullocks, 47_

Profits of growing flax, 105 ; of summer
equal to winter grazing, 1563 derived
from meat and corn,140; overcome all
things, 163; unexampled, from fat
cattle, 181; realized, 274-276-

Profits upon "flax fibre, 187, ° 188, 189,
191

Project, aims of, 168

Promoters of the Flax Caum, ‘objects of,
226

Property, not ini 168 eae

Properties of linseed explained, 182

Prophet, fate of, 150 ~

Prospectus of the National ‘Flax Asso-
ciation, 52

Prosperity, national, 1

Protection Association, why powerless,
257

Protestant church, 147

Providence, the “2 of, 279

Pulling, 97, 115, 143 ‘

Quantity of linseed per acre, 282
Quotations, from Scripture, 9; from
Belzoni, 9; from Pliny, 10 ~

Rammer, plate of, 125; 3 description of, 125

Rebecca-riots, 280

Reciprocity between town and country,
171

Receipt for turnip and straw compound,
251

Relief, immediate, 51; inimeiane: from
the flax-crop, 175

Remedy for the distresses of Norwich,
309; applicable to other populous
towns, 309

Re-production, within whee reach, 279

Rich, a Voice for, 55 ; business of, to find
employment, 255

Ripening, 96

Rippling, 115

River Lys, 113

Ross, —, Esq., M.P., opinion of, 11

Rotation, 95

Rous, Hon. W. R., letter of, to Nobility,
&e., 24

Russell, Lord John, 227

Sale of Mr. Smith's flax, 271

Salter, Mr., Notes of, 125

Sceptic, place of, 178

Scotch cattle-breeders benefited, 280

Scutching, 99

Seed, quantity, per acre, 117; destruc-
tion of, absurd, 63; thrashing of, 116;
saved, from imported flax, 207

32]

‘Sheds, conversion of, into Neale: 131
Skinner, of, 92
Sloth and extravagance, how encourag-

ed, 280
smth, Mi Mr., admirable observations of,

Git wad cdiviate, co) ity of, 19
Soils suited to the oe. of flax, 60, 61
Somerset, agriculture of, 33

= Mr., important letter of, 60

the seed, 96, 264
8
State, of, not endangered, 168

ing, 97; how to be taught, 206
cma duty of, 179
— = of, for making compound,

ruinous price of, 149

Stracy, i Edw., Bart., 35; experiments
of, 146

Straw, economy of, 129

Straw-houses necessary, 1

Subject, scientific lint of, 65 |

Substitution ips for flax, 182

Suecess depend m attention, 135

Sufferings, desire to alleviate, 6

118
" Supplies of wheat and meat, how to ob-
tain, 179

shane best suited to farm-business,
114; great advantages of, to the breed-
er 133

Stanislaus, King of Poland,remarks of,55

Ten facts connected with flax, 277

arom in seco hn ga 184
The Queen, sympathy of, 30

The flax ship, 272

Theory versus practice, 183

Time of sowing, 264

Times, when ruinous to the farmer, 149

Tithes, non-payment of, 147

Toll-bars, destruction of, 147

Truth, force of, 153

Turnips, uncertainty of, 210; time of
sowing, 264; sown after flax, 102;
sheet-anchor to Norfolk farmers, 155;
a necessary evil, 155 ‘

Union, repeal of, 147°
Value of linseed, unknown, 140.

Wages, how much, per meal, 5

Waste lands, cultivation of, 50

Water difficulty obviated, 113

Watering, too little reecommended,’81

Wealth, mine of, 14

Weeding, unnecessary, 96

Welsh language, translation of this book
into, 280

Wheat, low price of, necessary, 149; in-
creased suppl of, 176

Whigs and oe 153

Whitmore, W. W., Esq., Gesk-eakabtiah.
ment of, 132 ;

Wilson, Hon. and Rev., 37

Windham, W. H., Esq. -» 184

Wodehouse, E., Esq., M.P., 15, 39

Wodehouse, Lord, 36

Work at adequate 5177

Workhouses, necessity for, obviated, 200

Working classes the great majority, 5
the source of all gain, 229 ; services
not required, 254

Writers, ancient and modern, on flax, 56

Yorkshire, agriculture of, 75
Yellow flax, most valuable, 104

THE END.

London : Printed by W. CLowss and Sons, Stamford street.

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253 On the cultivation of flax
W38

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