FARMINO TOOLS. 246 



tree, by sawing or cutting the trunk partially off while erect, 

 and applying the solution to its base ; or it may be cut down, 

 leaving a part of the leafy branches above the point of satu- 

 ration, and apply the solution to the butt end. Beautiful tints 

 are given to timber which is used for cabinet work, by satu- 

 rating it with various coloring matters. Although the 

 expense of these preparations may prevent their use for large, 

 cheap structures, yet for all the lighter instruments, such as 

 farmer's tools, plows, &c., where the cost of the wood is 

 inconsiderable in comparison with that of making, it would 

 be economy to use such timber only as will give the longest 

 duration, though its first price may be ten-fold that of the 

 more perishable material. 



FARMING TOOLS. 



These should form an important item of the farmer's atten- 

 tion, as upon their proper construction depends much of 

 the economy and success with which he can perform his 

 operations. There have been great and important improve- 

 ments within the past few years, in most of the implements, 

 which have diminished the expense while they have greatly 

 improved the mechanical operations of agriculture. We 

 have studiously avoided a reference to any of these, as there 

 are many competitors for similar and nearly equal improve- 

 ment, and in this career of sharp and commendable rivalry, 

 what is the best to-day, may be supplanted by something 

 better to-morrow. These implements may now be found 

 at the agricultural ware-houses, of almost every desirable 

 variety. Of these, the best only should be procured ; such 

 as are the most perfect in their principles and of the most 

 durable materials. The wood work should be well guarded 

 with paint, if to be exposed to the weather, and the iron or 

 steel with paint, or a coating of hot tar, unless kept bright- 

 ened by use. When required for cutting, they should always 

 be sharp, even to the hoe, the spade and the share and coulter 

 of the plow. When not in use, they ought to be in a dry 

 place. Plows, harrows, carts and sleds, should all be thus 

 protected, and by their longer durability they will amply 

 repay the expense of shed room. They ought also to be 

 kept in the best repair, which may be done at leisure times 

 so as to be ready for use. [Some additional remarks on this 

 subject will be found under the head of " plows."] 



