216 MISSOURI STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 



almost a failure, and count the other three years, would make as much 

 each as the land is worth now, without the trees. 



This is not very large, but I consider it better than other farm 

 crops. 



I would like to hear statistics from other orchards, so* as to know 

 whether I am doing well or not. 



WILL IT PAY. 



BY W. R. LAUGIILIN, ELM GROVE. 



Will it pay to raise apples for market, in Missouri.^ 



It is a question of net proceeds; of sum totals, and of years. 



It is a problem in which many a factor is involved, and where some 

 unknown quantities can only be revealed by processes and time. To 

 some extent it combines changing conditions with possible features of an 

 unknown future. 



Perhaps it is in proper order first to inquire whether it has paid in 

 the past. On this search for truth, let us turn the electric light of expe- 

 rience. Let' facts — bushels, barrels and dollars — be submitted to him 

 who inquires the evidence to him whose care is to know the truth. To in- 

 dividuals the right answer may mean a life success; or the wrong one 

 may write all over his earthly span, failure. 



To the state, the importance of a correct conclusion as to this busi- 

 ness, is immense. 



Years ago it was too late to harbor doubts as to the productiveness 

 of the trees, or as to the size, color or quality of Missouri apples, and this 

 year the nation and the world has had an opportunity to see, and taste, 

 and know for themselves. The great fruit show at St. Louis, drove the 

 nail clear through; and the show at our state society meeting, at Nevada 

 clinched it. 



