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iv Preface. 
ous view to the discovery of the philosopher’s stone, or other 
dreams of alchymists to achieve the transmutation of metals, 
have originated some of the most important facts, now known 
and practised upon. No small portion of agricultural improve- 
ment now flourishes under the discoveries of men, deemed, 
__ by prejudice, equally wild and visionary. This should therefore 
warn practical farmers against the ruinous foes to their own 
__ prosperity,—the incredulity and prejudice with which they 
~ xeceive (if they take the trouble to read them) written com- 
munications : and those more especially, which contain che- 
mical and philosophical principles, applied to the art of prac- 
tical husbandry ; from which agriculture derives most essen- 
tial advantages. 
Having, with the most affectionate attachment, addressed 
ourselves to practical farmers ; we take the liberty, most re- 
spectiully, to say a iew words, to those of our fellow-citizens 
who are not immediately employed in husbandry ; while they 
prosper on the produce os the toils and anxieties of husband- 
men. They celebrate and enjoy im their feasts, with great _ 
ardour and approbation, the blessings of AGRICULTURE ; and 
place it in alphabetical order, as it is in fact, as the first of 
arts. But here ends their zeal. Not through detect of patriot- 
ism, but through want of conviction, that more than their good 
wishes are required. Yet agriculturists are thankful for this 
testimony in their praise ; and gratified by the libations plente- 
ously poured out in honour of their art. While commerce, 
which is but its hand-maid, receives highly profitable, though 
not always sufficient, attentions, (and so it ought, as its interests 
and those oi husbandry are indissolubly united) AGRICULTURE, «+ 
its foundation, is left to find its own auxiliaries and security ; 
and must, unassisted, take its chance for progress and prospe- 
rity, Legislative attention is scantily afforded ; and private 
aid is little seen, or felt, If a few zealous individuals step 
forward, to stimulate and advance its interests, they are leit to 
consume their zeal by its own efforts. These are slow in their 
