144 EEPORT OF THE SECRETARY OF THE 



which he said : " "We have about two inches of snow — sod 

 ground not frozen. The mercury has been only a very few 

 degrees below freezing point, so far this fall. Everybody has 

 been plowing here, up to the 9th inst. In my trip to St. Jo- 

 seph and Benton Harbor, I found peach buds very much 

 swollen. If we get a severe winter, the loss on fruit in that 

 section will be very great. Here, the swelling is not enough 

 to seriously endanger anything." 



The Publishing Committee reported that they were com- 

 piling a history of the Society, with its proceedings, account 

 of the fair, including debates, addresses, etc., and that the same 

 would be issued in two weeks. 



On motion of C. L. Whitney, 



Resolved, That the Secretary furnish each member of the 

 Society with a copy of the Secretary's Report about to be 

 issued, and that he use such copies as are necessary in ex- 

 changes, and for use before the Legislature. 



C. J. Deitrich, Chairman Auditing Committee, reported 

 account of the Treasurer correct. 



On motion, the discussion of the question, "Does the stock 

 influence the Graft," be postponed until the February meeting. 



On motion of Mr. Hamilton, the committee appointed to 

 prepare articles of association, etc., preparatory to applying to 

 the Legislature for an act of incorporation, were granted more 

 time, and were instructed to report on Saturdaj^ January 14. 



A letter was read from 0. C. Dustin & Co., of the Mt. Ver- 

 non nurseries. New Jersey, who promised to send varieties of 

 fruit for testing. 



Mr. Geo. S. Linderman stated that ex-President Saimders 

 had received from the Commissioner of Agriculture, scions of 

 Russian apple trees, for the disposal of the Society. 



Mr. Bradfield of Ada, at the request of the members present, 

 said he would if his health permitted, favor the Society at its 

 next regular meeting, in February, with his experience, views, 

 etc., on grape culture. 



