REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF AGRICULTURE. 17 



Its patronage bj the government will certainly increase its products. And, 

 finally, since agriculture is by far tbe most extensive and important interest 

 of tbe country, and represented by much the largest body of citizens, it is 

 manifestly unjust to neglect tbis and foster inferior interests. 



In concluding my report, and in calling attention to tbe excellent agricultural 

 contributions of my countrymen accompanying it, my tbougbts turn naturally 

 to tbe future of our beloved country, Tbat future, to my mind, is full of 

 promise to tbe next if not tbis generation. Nations, like men, are made strong 

 and self-reliant tbrougb trial, and unless our conscious and growing strength 

 tempts us to military excesses abroad, our greatness is secured beyond all per- 

 adventure." A mighty giant, resting firmly on the soil and acquiring develop- 

 ment and strength by toil, by thought, and by equity, our republic will domi- 

 nate the western continent and adjacent seas, and command the fear and the 

 respect of all nationa. 



ISAAC NEWTON, 

 Commissioner of Agriculture. 



To His Excellency Abraham Lincoln, President. 



