SUMMER MEETING. 15 



While we pride ourselves on the diversity of our pursuits and 

 their mutual helpfulness to each other, yet it is universally acknowl- 

 edged that horticulture and its kindred branches are the reliance and 

 support of all the rest. The politician who would curry favor poses 

 as the friend of the farmer, and the protest of millions of voices from 

 every section of the United States would be instantly heard were 

 legislation hurtful to his interests attempted. 



The value of organized effort and the mutual helpfulness gained 

 by social intercourse are coming to be recognized more each year, 

 and it is for this I have the pleasure of welcoming you to our midst 

 today. 



Missouri stands at the head of her sister states and even leads the 

 world in some of her productions, and by your efforts she will soon 

 take the lead in her yearly yield of fruits and vegetables. With par- 

 donable pride we speak of the strawberry output of the Sarcoxie 

 region and the Olden Fruit Farm, realizing they are but the beginning 

 of the development of our wonderful resources along that line. But 

 to return to you, our guests, I am glad to see so many ladies among 

 you. Ever since Eve began her investigations with the forbidden 

 fruit her daughters have followed in her footsteps, and brought the men 

 along, too, just as Adam was anxious to share when there was some- 

 thing good to eat. Floriculture is hers by an inborn right, and the 

 Greeks crowned Oeres — a woman — goddess of the harvest grains. 



God ordained the Feast of the Harvest far his ancient people, and 

 we do well to remember it to-day. Freely we offer you the hospitality 

 of the city and its people. We are glad to have the pleasure of your 

 presence in our midst. 



The response by Vice-President N. F. Murray followed. 



EESPONSE. 



Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen — In response to the eloquent 

 address of welcome by your worthy mayor, we desire to thank you 

 for the warm and generous reception and hearty welcome you have 

 given us to the beautiful " Queen City of the Southwest," and to the 

 hospitality of your homes. 



Quite a number of us have been in your city on former occasions, 

 but are glad to come again, knowing quite well from our past experi- 

 ence that we will be royally entertained by the ever wide-awake, pro- 

 gressive citizens of Springfield. 



