312 BOARD OF AGEICULTUEE. 



In view of this fact, how important it is that the State should take 

 prompt action for the upbuilding of forestry. No graver responsibility 

 rests upon our legislators than this. Give this question the attention its 

 importance deserves. 



In conclusion, we would say that the business of horticulture is one 

 of the noblest occupations of the world, if carried on with a faithful 

 spirit. The results of our work contribute directly and powerfully to the 

 betterment of mankind. We minister to the health and moral stature of 

 the community. We work with the great forces of nature. We form 

 alliances with sunshine and rain and the secret afHnities of the soil. We 

 manipulate the occult energies of chemisti*y. Science is called to our 

 rescue and contributes to our advancement. And then we join hands 

 with Providence to produce our harvests. I would have every horticul- 

 turist regard his vocation with becoming pride. The American fruit 

 gi'ower, like the American farmer, should hold his head proudly but rev- 

 erently, as the best man in the. world. He is not free from cares, trials 

 and perplexities, but these dwindle into insignificance when compared 

 with the burdens borne by the great majority of the sons of men. And 

 as he labors, not alone for self, but for all mankind, the pleasures of life 

 which come to him from a consciousness of duty well done render his 

 cup of joy about as full as it is ever allotted to mortal man. 



With a wide range of topics on our program, and such able assistance 

 from abroad, I ti-ust we will make this one of the most instructive and 

 profitable meetings we have ever held. 



President Stevens resumed the chair and called for the annual re- 

 ports of the Secl-etary and Treasurer. 



SECRETARY'S REPORT. 



Report of W. B. Flick, Secretary, for the year ending October 31, 

 1902: 



Receipts- 

 Received from members as dues $44 00 



Received from Sylvester Johnson, Treasurer 50 13 



Total receipts $94 15 



Balance due Secretary 18 52 



$112 67 



