STATE AGEICULTURAL SOCIETY. 399 



effected or cveu coiitemplatod by these premiums ou trials of speed? A pretty 

 thorough acquaintance with the manner in which these trials of speed have been 

 gotten up leads to the conclusion that they are chiefly for the benefit of gam- 

 blers and horse trick?ters. The public at large ai*e only paid in the amusement 

 which the occasions offer ; and that, my belief is, costs more than it is worth. 

 But the worst aspect of the case has not been noticed. Disguise it as you will, 

 these contests are in principle nothing more than those instituted by gambling 

 associations where horses compete for purses. As the jxiblic mind becomes 

 accustomed to the spectacle it apj)roximates nearer and nearer to the gambler's 

 scheme until even now we see at the exhibitions of some of our leading agricul- 

 tural societies the most open betting on these trials of speed. In view of these 

 facts will any one contend that these examples are calculated to improve either 

 the breeds of horses or the morals of men? The argument that these speed 

 tests are necessary to the support of agricultural societies is believed to be entirely 

 fallacious. Does experience teach that the class of people who are particularly 

 interested in mere amusements can be permanently relied on in important enter- 

 prises? On the contrary, is it not well understood that their characteristic 

 capriciousness may at any moment jeopardize the success of any undertaking? 

 The true friends of agriculture are disgusted by frivolous and immoral jsroceed- 

 ings, and stand aloof or withdraw their support, and wo arc thus deprived of the 

 aid of the most trustworthy citizens. 



The horse is one of the most useful of our domestic animals, and his improve- 

 ment should not be overlooked by our society. Several classes or breeds of 

 horses are required, — such as the draft liorse, the farm horse, or horse for gen- 

 eral use, and the roadster. In awarding premiums on this class it v,^ould be 

 jH'oper to take into consideration all the properties required to make the best 

 horse for road purposes. One of these properties is speed, though not in a 

 higher degree than is likely to be wanted by the horse in the performance of his 

 legitimate duties. The New York State Agricultural Society, one of the oldest, 

 most useful and influential associations of this character in the country, has 

 from the beginning steadily refused to offer speed premiums. It has never 

 allowed trials of speed on the grounds, and has never set apart any more ground 

 for horses than was simply required to fairly show their gait, yet large crowds 

 have always attended the exhibitions of this society. Canada, Avhose people are 

 earnestly devoted to the improvement of agriculture, makes exhibitions of a 

 highly creditable character, and which are numerously attended by the people. 

 They have no trials of speed. 



Let us be careful that our annual fairs do not become demoralizing to those 

 who attend them, by the introduction of horse-racing or any other immoral 

 element under the auspices of the society, but steadily pursue the object of our 

 organization. 



I would recommend a liberal policy in the regulations for exhibitors in all the 

 departments of our fair. 



I Avish to call your special attention to the Pomological Department, Avhich I 

 regard as a most important branch in our fairs. The able manner in Avhich 

 these exhibitions are being conducted is worthy of our most generous considera- 

 tion ; is a credit to our State, and is attracting attention in other States as a 

 model institution of its kind. I would suggest that this society treat that 

 department by word and deed with all the liberality consistent with its ability 

 so to do. 



I am thoroughly convinced that an entire vreek is too long a time for our fair 

 to continue for the convenience and comfort of exhibitors and visitors, as well as 



