194 MASSACHUSETTS HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 



to distance all competitors. Mr. Smith also carried off the first 

 prize for Limas at the Annual Exhibition. His specimens were 

 very fine ; he has got the pole, and evidently intends to keep it, — 

 filled with his splendid specimens, in readiness to sweep the board 

 of all the first prizes in the future. 



The display at the Annual Exhibition, although much smaller 

 than on many previous occasions, was, on the whole, satisfactory in 

 its character. The falling off at this exhibition is accounted for b}^ 

 the fact that several, who have heretofore been among our largest 

 and most constant contributors to these exhibitions for man}' 3'ears, 

 failed, for some cause, to put in an appearance. This was, of 

 course, to be regretted, as it is always desirable at our annual 

 shows to have all the space devoted to this department well filled. 

 Although lacking in quantity, in comparison with the previous 

 3'ear, the deficiency was more than made up by the excellence of 

 the specimens shown. It was the general remark that root crops 

 were the best and most perfect ever shown at any exhibition of the 

 Society. 



The show of Tomatoes was, considering the lateness of the 

 season, remarkably full and fine. There were eighty different 

 dishes, representing all the leading varieties. The collection of 

 John Cummings was the largest and best. His specimens of 

 Boston Market, Gen. Grant, Emery, and Paragon, were full}' up to 

 the standard, and were much admired b}' all who entered the hall. 

 Samuel Hartwell and J. J. H. Gregor}', each showed a large col- 

 lection of very fine specimens. The first prizes for the best three 

 varieties, and best single dishes, were all won b}' Mr. Cummings. 



The display of Potatoes, although not large, was unusuall}' fine. 

 The specimens shown were uniform in size, smooth, and well grown. 

 The whole number of dishes was twent3'-six, prominent among 

 which were the Earl}' Rose, Snow Elake, Early Vermont, Burbank's 

 Seedling, Early Ohio, and Dunmore's Seedling. The prize for the 

 best collection of new seedlings was not awarded, none being 

 exhibited. 



The Squash family was also well represented at this exhibition. 

 The specimens of the different varieties showed a nearer approach 

 to the desired standard of excellence than has been the case at 

 any former show 



Cauliflowers were not up to the usual standard at this exhibition, 

 although some excellent specimens were shown later in the season. 



