330 State Horticultural Society. 



Mr. Graves. — It was ray pleasure to extend a welcome to this body 

 in a few words of greeting, and I am not sorry I had that favor. We 

 all appreciate the work of the Society and the benefit of the meeting 

 here. What you have said and the way you have said it is encourag- 

 ing to the fruit growers around Neosho. You knew something of us 

 and our work and our fruits and our markets, and now you have 

 encouraged and helped us by your suggestions and advice, and the 

 outlook shown for the fruit business has also great encouragement for 

 us, so we are glad you came and hope you will come again. 



Mr. Dutcher. — Col. Evans has been called the Moses of this So- 

 ciety, and we will now listen to this leader. 



J. C. Evans. — I was here years ago when the lead of these hills 

 was dug out and hauled to Boonville to the river boats. At that 

 time there were five Indians to one white man, and there v/as no 

 Carthage and no Kansas City ; but now I am thankful that I have lived 

 to see this country dotted with beautiful cities and homes and mines 

 and farm houses and churches and school houses. \Ve are all glad 

 we came to Neosho for this meeting. I want to thank the ladies 

 especially for the splendid music which they have given us. 



Mr. Dutcher. — We cannot close without some words from our 

 Secretary. 



Mr. Goodman. — This is one of the very best meetings we have 

 ever had, and the two welcome addresses the best we have ever 

 listened to. I congratulate the people on the fine order maintained 

 at the meetings and the enthusiasm shown for this work. 



Mr, Dutcher. — We have all had a good time, and I trust I -will be 

 liere again. I bid you all a kind good-bye, and with best wishes thank 

 3-ou all and wish you happiness evermore. 



On motion, the meeting adjourned until next June. 



