THE STATE GRANGE. 667 



THE FARMERS' DUTY. 



Iii calling your attention to some of the foregoing- questions, I desire 

 to add that it is the order of the day for the different interests and people 

 to seek special advantages, ofttinies not inquiring whose welfare is im- 

 periled thereby. The wonderful opportunities offered ambitious men by 

 the swift development of our great country have brought on this friendly 

 contest for special advantages, and if farmers desire and expect to secure 

 and maintain just privileges and rights, they must arise to the situa- 

 tion and be alert and doing. 



They have the power and the machinery of organization through which 

 to act. If they falter and rest in quiet composure no complaint should 

 be made of that which follows. 



AGRICULTURAL AND GRANGE PRESS. 



The usefulness and power of the press in advocacy of any given prin- 

 ciple or work are well known to all. The grange that fails to, in some 

 way, encourage the presence of grange reading in every family of its 

 membership is not living up to its full duties. 



The Michigan Farmer now contains a two page Grange Department 

 conducted by Bro. K. L. Butterfleld in a thoughtful and earnest manner. 

 The department is yours to contribute to, to improve and to perfect. 

 Through this medium every member of our organization may keep in- 

 formed in grange work, and at the same time have before him most valu- 

 able reading on all agricultural topics. Every grange should commence 

 the new year with club lists for this valuable paper. 



In this connection it is but just to recognize the friendly spirit and 

 valuable service rendered by the Michigan Fruit Grower and Practical 

 Farmer, published at Grand Rapids, in conducting a very readable Grange 

 Department under the care of Bro. Melvin S. Smith of Talmadge. We 

 hope for it success and a liberal patronage. 



NO BREAKS IN THE RANKS. 



It has not been reported to the Master's office that any member prom- 

 inently connected with the work of the State Grange has passed this 

 life since last we met. That a kind Providence has so guarded their 

 lives is cause for prayers of gratitude. To mourning members, if such 

 There be, among the Subordinate Granges of the state, we extend a fra- 

 ternal sympathy. 



THE EARLY WORKERS. 



In looking- over the achievements, present work and future possibili- 

 ties of this grand organization, our thoughts naturally turn to those who 

 braved the battles at the beginning. Many of that noble band of men 

 and women have passed from earth forever. Some of them still remain 

 with us to counsel and cheer us on in the work. Long may their lives be 

 spared and may the work and progress of the order be such as to com- 

 fort them in thoir declining years. 



