222 [Senate 



Is it a knowledge of chemistry in one case, and a deficiency in the 

 other? No one will ever think of ascribing the results to such 

 causes. 



It is not denied, that important aid may yet be derived from agri- 

 cultural chemistry. But its advance must be slow, and attended 

 with caution. Years of careful and accurate analyses of soils, and 

 of the trial of manures, separate and mixed, in connexion with ex- 

 periments on growing crops performed with the utmost judgment and 

 precision, can only settle uncertain points. Reasons will thus be 

 rendered clearer by science, and practices explained, enforced and 

 established. But these experiments must be performed chiefly by the 

 enterprising few, and not by the common farmer. The study is indeed 

 deeply interesting and fascinating ; and every one who has a knowl- 

 edge of the natural sciences, will not unfrequently find useful appli- 

 cations in the every-day business of life. But to hold them up as a 

 means by which the young farmer is to conduct his business most 

 profitably, while he yet remains wholly or partially ignorant of the 

 most improved modern systems of practice and management, cannot 

 be followed by the best results. The most important knowledge 

 must be first attained, and afterwards that which is less essential in 

 practice. If possible, neither should be neglected. We should not 

 denounce any study because it is encompassed with so ae difficulties. 

 Chemistry is affording many valuable suggestions for trial and prac- 

 tice ; and as Professor Johnston very justly remarks, " It is foolish 

 to refuse to avail ourselves of the morning light because it is not 

 equal to the mid-day sun," 



