74 MISSOURI STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 



^_ • 



agree with Darwin in regard to his theory of the evolution of man, yet 

 these principles we believe do apply to plant life. 



Thus each new kind of fruit may possess in its germs an improved 

 new species that ma}' develop into a valuable improved variety'. 



We are the active and honored agents under the control of one 

 who directs us for a wise purpose, and while we have not the ability 

 to make an apple or peach, we may, by His assistance in the introduc- 

 tion of some new fruit, so benefit mankind as to stand before the world 

 in the light of distinguished public benefactors. 



Mrs. Parkinson favored the society with a solo. 



THE POWER OF HORTICULTURE FOR MAN'S MORAL ELE- 

 VATION. 



BY DAN CARPENTER, OF CLAY CO. 



The moral improvement of society being of primary importance 

 and left to select my own subject, ray theme will be "The Influence of 

 Horticulture on Man's Moral Nature." 



Irrelevant as it may be to the financial interests of our avocation^ 

 it is not to be ignored in its relation to the good of our families and the 

 benefits of society. 



We shall soon gather our mantles about us and go hence, leaving 

 our impress on the generation who shall succeed us, and it is of great 

 importance that our influence shall be for the good of mankind, and 

 our occupation properly appreciated for its mofal power as well as its 

 wealth-producing capabilities. 



The moral improvement of man should be the grand aim of every 

 one, be the occupation in life what it may. Laws are made to restrain 

 evil, to encourage good. The nearer approach men make to the divine 

 the happier is society, and the less need of statutory enactments for 

 the protfection of person and property. 



The occupation in life has much to do in shaping moral character 

 and elevating men's thoughts to the source of all good. 



The law brings us in contact with strife and criminals and leads 

 the profession to look with indifference upon crime, contention and 



