14 



winter. He was afterward appointed Professor of Theoretical and 

 Practical Agriculture, and was expecting to continue his labors at the 

 University, in that departnaent for which he was so eminently fitted, 

 and in the prosecution of which he had for many years, with unwearied 

 assiduity labored in the field by day, and in the study by night; I 

 mean the department of Agriculture, both scientific and practical. 

 But, ju?t as we were beginning to know him, and to feel the influence 

 that his talents, industry, and energy were exerting in behalf of the 

 agricultural interests of Michigan, we looked and he was not, for death, 

 with but a slight warning, claimed and bore him from us, that he 

 might rest from his labors and receive his reward. 



It is natural that since our friend has been taken from us we should 

 ask, by whom will his place be filled. At present I cannot answer. 

 The President of the University informs me that the lectures will be 

 continued, but by whom, and the plan of the course I have not been 

 advised. 



That agricultural science must be taught, and that an experimental 

 and model farm must be established in Michigan, appears to be a fixed 

 fact; but a difficulty in the way, and I apprehend it is the principal, if 

 not the only one, is the location. With regard to location, we hear it 

 said by some that an Agricultural School should be a branch, or a de- 

 partment of the University ; others say the Normal School is the proper 

 place for it ; while others say it should not be connected with any other 

 institution, but should be by itself, independent of all others. 



The Constitution of the State says the " Legislature shall provide for 

 an Agricultural School, when practicable." 



We say it is now practicable, now is the time for the Legislature to 

 act upon this important subject, and it is for you to send in your peti- 

 tions, and see that they are acted upon, and they are granted. Then 

 the farmer, as well as the artisan and the professional man, will have the 

 advantage of science to assist bim in his occupation. This object must 

 be attained, be the location where it may. The importance of this sub- 

 ject has caused me to occupy much of your time in calling your atten- 

 tion to it. 



It has been my constant endeavor to increase the library belonging 

 to the Society, but without means its progress must necessarily be slow. 

 Last spring I forwarded to Europe, under the direction of the Smith- 



