SECRETARY'S PORTFOLIO. 



DEFERRED PAPERS, REPORTS, NOTES, EXTRACTS, ETC. 



Introductory Note by the Secretary. 



We are much pleased with the high order of the essa5's, jjapers and 

 other contributions which appear in this report, A great variety of 

 subjects are thoughtfully considered, evincing an awakened and lively 

 interest in the cause of horticulture, as well as kindred topics. 



Garfield, the model secretary of the Michigan state society, says: 

 " I earnestly believe there is no occupation in the world that may be 

 made so delightful and captivating as horticulture." This is a prop- 

 osition he no doubt has proved to his own satisfaction by personal ob- 

 servation and experience, since he is both a practical horticulturist 

 and indefatigable worker in literary fields as well; and in connection 

 with his report he furnishes each year a valuable and interesting 

 portfolio. 



It would afi'ord us pleasure to follow his example by gathering 

 together some of the numerous articles, items, editorial gleanings, and 

 the like, which may be found from time to time in leading papers and 

 horticultural journals of the land. But as our space is limited we must 

 give room in our reports to matters mainly of a local nature and seek 

 from year to year as far as practicable, to furnish a faithful outline or 

 history of horticultural progress in this State. In our report of the 

 proceedings at our annual meeting, we have endeavored to con- 

 dense to some extent in order to avoid unnecessary repetition and 

 save sufficient space to bring the present volume within a proper limit 

 as to size. We therefore feel compelled to limit the succeeding pages 

 somewhat, although omitting many worthy things of real interest 

 and value. 



