376 



It is evident that the entire wlieat crop will exceed by several millions that 

 of 1859, -when the yield was reported at 173,104,924 bushels. Then there were 

 five and a half bushels to each individual ; in 1866 the estimates point to five 

 bushels to each inhabitant. There is no ground, then, for apprehensions of 

 scarcity, and little excuse, in the amount of the crop, for starvation prices. 



The yield of oats is extraordinary, and the quality excellent. The indica- 

 tions point to an increase from 171,497,072 bushels in 1859 to 271,912,695 in 

 1866. It is the only crop in the South that maintains an equality with its last 

 census exhibit. 



Hay is less in quantity than in tlie previous year by from one to two tenths, 

 but is better in quality. 



An analysis of the southern returns up to October 1 do not warrant a reduc- 

 tion of the former cotton estimate much below one and three-fourths million 

 of bales, though it is too early for final tstimates. Increasing severity of 

 damages from insects is repoi'ted. 



The minor crops are duly considered in the body of the report. 



ISAAC NEWTON, 



Commissioner. 



