138 , ANNUAL REPORT. 



great influence among the rural people. I noticed last year they 

 sought the daily papers, to get the reports that appeared of our meet- 

 ings, with reference to this and that, and whatever this Society recom- 

 mended the people were desirous of procuring. We are troubled in 

 our region with irresponsible agents who go through the country and 

 see the farmers, recommending this and that, and the farmers are 

 looking to this Society to get its recommendation of what is best. I 

 hope therefore, that it will define itself clearly as to certain varieties* 

 I am much interested in horticulture, although but a beginner. I 

 just started a nurser}' in the vicinity of Traverse. My grounds are in 

 Dakota, but I live at Brown's Valley. I came here as a voluntary 

 delegate to learn all that is possible, and my friends defer to me, in a 

 measure, with reference to the news of your meeting that I am to bring 

 to them. 



There is one thing that pleases me, and that is the tendency to con- 

 servatism of this Society in recommending new and untried varieties 

 of fruit. I make this suggestion that the Society define itself positive- 

 ly in this matter, for the benefit of the rural class, that they may 

 understand what to do. 



President Smith. That matter will be more fully reported upon by 

 the special committees. 



On motion of Mr. Elliot the President then proceeded to read hi& 

 annual address, which was received with applause, and on motion 

 referred to a committee of three, appointed by the Society, consisting 

 of Messrs. Wyman Elliot, J. S. Harris, and A. W. Sias, to report 

 upon the same. 



PKESIDENT'S ANNUAL ADDRESS. 



Members of tJie Minnesota State Horticultural Society, Ladies and Oentlemen: 



It gives me much pleasure to meet you again. And my sincere desire is that you 

 may each and all have a pleasant and profitable session, and that each one upon 

 returning to their respective homes will feel that they have been amply repaid for 

 time and expenses in attending this meeting. I wi!l not consume much of your 

 valuable time, knowing full well the addresses and discussions to follow will be 

 much more interesting and instructive than anything I shall have to sav. 



But I must ask your indulgence while I offer a few suggestions, which I do in 

 hopes thejjr will bring out others that will add to our usefulness as a Society and ta 

 the ultimate benefit of horticulture in our entire State. And in so doing, I do not 

 insist upon the adoption of any ona of them, but hope that you in your wisdom 

 and better judgment will adopt and carry out only those views or ideas that bring 

 the greatest good to the greatest number. 



First, «)ur finances need and require your careful attention, and should receive it 



