1856.] ''Terra Culture''— Prof . Comstoch. 459 



a single well observed fact would constitute a princij^le of universal 

 application. But the difference in tlieir action under different cir- 

 cumstances, must necessarily modify results. Thus, that which caus- 

 es a particular kind of culture to succeed in one country, will not 

 often have the same effect in another; and the Agriculturist in adopt- 

 ing new methods, which are attended with favorable results elsewhere 

 is often disappointed in his experiments, from the fact that he is un- 

 able to combine the same causes of success. 



True science then proceeds on no uncertain data, but is the result 

 of patient, long continued investigation under a great variety of cir- 

 cumstances. 



We have recently been much interested by the disclosure of a new- 

 ly discovered law of vegetable physiology said to be of immense value 

 in its application to the farmer and horticulturist, by Prof. Russell 

 Comstock, of Mabetsville, N. Y., under the name of ''Terra Culture." 

 By a strict observance, in earth culture, of this law, we are directed 

 uniformly and unerringly to the most successful and profitable re- 

 sults. While we are unprepared fully to substantiate its claims, and 

 in the absence of well authenticated facts to indorse its doctrines; 

 from what we have observed, and the simplicity, and character of the 

 rationale adopted, we are inclined to investigate with care and can- 

 dor its merits, and defend its author from the aspersions and ridicule 

 which without just cause have been heaped upon him. As to the 

 appropriation of the term "Terra Culture," out of its literal and gen- 

 erally received signification, (which some have criticised, giving it a 

 technical sense) we can see no valid objection. 



As well might we object to the term phrenology applied to a well 

 known science, because phren means mind, and logos a discourse, or 

 treatise, putting them together, a treatise about the mind; or any 

 other scientific term, as the one in question. 



The term "Terra Culture," is, we think, quite appropriate, compre- 

 hending a principle, or law and the application of that law to the de- 

 velopment and growth of the whole vegetable kingdom. Who will 

 captiously say this is a misnomer and unscientific? 



What is "Terra-Culture"? We feel not at liberty to disclose it. 

 You have heard it pronounced a veritable humbug by some who have 

 listened to its disclosure— its claims are a sham, "a cheat: and its 

 discoverer an Imposter." We will never knowingly defend a humbug, 

 much less advocate the claims of an imposter; but in the absence of 

 facts against the man, and in the discussion of great philosophical 



