MANURES. 235 



of white and red clover. We might cito other instances of a 

 similar nature, but not enough to establish a general principle. 

 It is gratifying to know that with regard to the other point, the 

 possibility of keeping land in good condition by the use of 

 this manure alone, that there are intelligent and enterprising 

 farmers among us, whose experiments \vill go far to settle this 

 mooted question. We have in mind, particularly, a gentleman 

 whose experience as given to the public not long since, already 

 runs through a period of several years, and who is determined 

 to satisfy himself on this subject. We incline to the opinion, 

 that it can be done. It certainly requires goo'd evidence to con- 

 vince one that tlie pittance of two pounds of manure to the 

 square rod should produce eiglit pounds of corn, and as much 

 of cornstalks ; but these are facts that cannot be denied, and if 

 it will do this on the lightest soils for one year, there seems no 

 good reason why it should not for any number of years. 



What is most wanted now is some philosophical explanation 

 of the fact. If it could be shown that guano, besides furnishing 

 valuable food to growing crops, acts also as a solvent to sub- 

 stances otherwise worthless, it would relieve the agricultural 

 public of a vast deal of anxiety. 



But we leave the subject, in the hope that the farmers of 

 Hampshire may never forget that accuracy in condncting experi- 

 ments is the only true criterion of their value, either to them- 

 selves or the public. 



North Hadley, 185G. 



Theodore G. Huntington, Chairman. 



Statement of S. D. Crocker. 



Much has been said, as well as written, of careful saving and 

 judicious application of manures. It has been estimated that 

 many farmers might better husband their resources and convert 

 into fertilizers much that is now wasted. The importance of this 

 matter, in connection with the farmer's success, and my hope of 

 saving much that might otherwise be lost, led me, four years 

 ago, to adopt the practice of stabling my cows at night, through 

 the summer season. 



My stable floor is covered with muck or loam, to the depth of 



