214 STATE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 



climbed as high in the arts and sciences as did Egypt at one time. Egypt 

 was like America and fed the nations around about. "As rich as the banks 

 of the Nile" was a by-word, and a deserved one. The best thought of 

 Egypt was given to agriculture and the promotion of its interests, and as 

 long as they did that Egj^pt went up; but by and by they began to oppress 

 agriculture, it was driven to beggary and want, and today Egypt is dis- 

 tinguished for its poverty. 



The same thing is true of Italy. While Rome took care of agriculture, 

 she was master on land and mistress of the seas. By and by she began to 

 oppress agriculture, the farmers became discouraged, and down went 

 Italy to poverty and neglect. 



Turkey is another illustration. Her chief occupation now is murder- 

 ing Armenians. 



England, with her colder soil — rich, because she has taken care of her 

 agriculture. 



America deserved more than all the rest of these, with her hardy popu- 

 lation, high civilization, universal education, a magnificent future is 

 before us if we will avail ourselves of it and climb every round of the 

 ladder we can reach, holding fast to all that is good and honorable, 

 increasing in ability, knowledge and power, and by and by our children 

 will rise up and call us blessed, as I this night bless the fathers and 

 mothers who have contributed so royally that their boys might receive 

 something of an education that would enable them to stand as men in the 

 world. I have concluded; the work is done in this respect, and I hope it 

 has contributed something to the welfare of those who have attended day 

 after day. 



Good night to you all. 



Mr. Garfield : Mr. Chairman, before we separate, after having listened 

 to the complimentary resolution offered today, I want, on the part of the 

 Kent County Institute Association, and for the people of Grand Rapids, 

 to say that we feel very grateful for the large and representative audi- 

 ence from all parts of this State, and for the delightful exercises that 

 have been given to us through this system of Institutes. 



Gov. Luce: I am great on enthusiasm. I have always tried to get our 

 folks enthusiastic; I am going to propose three cheers to close, for the 

 Kent County Round Up Institute. I want them with a will. 



(The wish of the Governor was gratified.) 



The meeting was declared adjourned. 



