DISEASES OF PLANTS. 129 



individuals and society, compared with other branches of stock 

 breeding, I know of no material difference. And a careful 

 examination of the laws which govern success in these pursuits 

 cannot fail to build substantially upon our characters as thought- 

 ful men. 



The influences of such a pursuit need take nothing from our 

 dignity as members of society ; for I firmly believe that the man 

 who by observation and research, becomes acquainted with the 

 wonderful theory of generation and its innumerable changes, and 

 the ease with which it is made applicable is answering to the 

 wants and pleasures of man, will be led to acknowledge the power 

 of nature to mould and fashion at his will, forms of beauty and 

 intelligence for his use. He trusts no longer to uncertain chance, 

 but bowing in the light of science to the wisdom of every com- 

 bination, and the philosophy which surrounds the conception and 

 pathway of every living thing, he becomes purer and better. 



It is a matter of deep regret to the Secretary that he is unable 

 to furnish reports of the discussions which followed the delivery of 

 the above lecture, and also of those in connection with the 

 lectures subsequently delivered. 



The same inability attends the two very interesting and instruc- 

 tive lectures delivered by Hon. Henry F. French of Boston, on 

 Under-Drainage. 



Provision having since been made for the services of a phono- 

 graphic reporter, it is hoped, in future, that those unable to be 

 present may be furnished with the substance of what is listened to 

 by those attending the Conventions. 



The following lecture was delivered by Prof. George L. Goodale 

 of Bowdoin College, 



On the Diseases of Plants. 



3Ir. President, and Gentlemen of the Convention : — I invite you 

 to study at this time some of the diseases of plants. Even in its 

 strictly scientific bearings, the subject is of importance to every 

 farmer, and it becomes of engrossing interest to him when the 

 study of plant-diseases leads to sound practical suggestions as to 

 means of cure. The science of vegetable pathology which treats 

 of the diseases of vegetation is based upon facts developed in 

 certain departments of chemistry and botany. To these we must 

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