RYE 85 
We wonder whether the Scottish bard was singing 
of the rye plant or of the River Rye and its stepping- 
stones o’er which the Scottish maidens were wont to 
pass, for if he was singing of the rye plant we can pic- 
ture in our imagination the lovely scene of a field, rich 
in the beautiful growth of the majestic, blooming rye 
plant, whose foliage hid the blushes of the Scottish 
maiden when met by her stalwart lover, “ Comin’ Thro’ 
the Rye,” who claimed the coveted kiss. 
But we who have no sentiment in our hearts and 
look only to the material worth of things, can find in the 
rye plant those elements of plant food that quickly and 
cheaply build up our soils to the highest and best fer- 
tility. 
We so little appreciate the good things that God has 
provided for our welfare, and rye is one of the least 
appreciated crops on the farm. Aside from its great 
feeding value, it is one of the best soil builders, and is 
always so available and so willing to respond and give 
its best service to us under the varied conditions of soil, 
weather and seasons. 
