14 



ed to us ; and the vegetable treasures within South America ap- 

 pear in real value to transcend its precious mines. 



And we rejoice also at beholding in our happy land, a scene 

 at which the Horticulturist has cause to glory. We have alrea- 

 dy, as a people, enriched by numerous treatises and volumes, 

 the Library that illustrates the natural products of the earth. 

 Were 1 not surrounded at this moment,* by the learning, genius 

 and talent, which have been most conspicuous in accomplishing 

 these toils, I would with pride repeat the names of many, and 

 add to them, with pleasure, their appropriate epithets. 



And learning, genius and talent are emulated by indefati- 

 gable industry and practised skill. The gardens that surround 

 our city are abundant evidences of this truth.t 



Throughout the Union, enterprise is now directed to the cul- 

 ture of the most valuable plants.} 



Besides sectional objects, confined to particular regions of 

 our country, there are others also claiming universal notice, 

 which may be denominated national. 



Of these, the fast, by its importance, is the cultivation of the 

 vine. The interesting facts and valuable suggestions on the 

 subject, which you received from our President in his Inaugural 

 Discourse, deserve particular regard. Four years have inter- 

 vened, since the Anniversary when he pronounced it, and his 

 sentiments have been corroborated by indisputable proofs. Ex- 



* A Catalogue of Books and Treatises by Members of the New- York Horti- 

 cultural Society may be seen in the Appendix, A. 



t The Publick Gardens in and near the city of .New-York are mentioned in 

 the Appendix, B. 



t On this subject see the Appendix, C. 



$ An Inaugural Discourse, delivered before the New- York Horticultural 

 Society, Aug. 31, 1824. 



