314 SIR R. PEEL AND THE FLAX SOCIETY. 



Ireland. The general introduction of the crop in England 

 would constitute a new and most valuable element in the rota- 

 tion, and would enable the farmer to vary and extend his 

 successions, which is in itself a highly important consideration. 

 * * * It may be safely asserted, therefore, that a flax- 

 crop rightly managed is not only valuable as affording increased 

 means of employment for our agricultural population, and 

 highly profitable for the purposes of the manufacturer, and for 

 the feeding of cattle, but that it moreover returns to the soil, 

 in the shape of manure, as much, if not more, than any of the 

 grain -crops." 



It is only within the last few weeks that I had the good 

 fortune to become acquainted with Mr. Nicholls and his writ- 

 ings. But, though short the time, abundant evidence has been 

 afforded me of the soundness and benevolence of his views ; 

 his constant aim being the advancement of the condition of 

 the poor. That gentleman's endeavour to introduce the sub- 

 ject to influential parties must eventually be attended with 

 success. 



I lay down my pen, therefore, rejoicing in the bright prospect 

 now open to my country, and assured that the cause no longer 

 rests upon my feeble advocacy, but, I repeat, "Upon the 

 thinking and intelligent part of the community; upon minds 

 that perceive the vastness of the undertaking, and are willing 

 to lend their powerful aid in carrying it out." 



While occupied in correcting the press for this part of my 

 work, I received the 'Northern Whig' from Ireland, contain- 

 ing the following letter, which powerfully confirms the correct- 

 ness of my conclusions. 



London, April $th, 1846. 



Treasury, 6th March, 1846. 

 " SIR, 



" I am desired by Sir Robert Peel to inform you, that 

 he has read, with attention and great pleasure, the Reports of 

 the Society for Promoting and Improving the Culture of Flax 

 in Ireland. He trusts that the efforts directed to so laudable 

 and important an object will meet with ample success, and 



