68 INDIAN CORN. 



the principle of life implies ceaseless activity and 

 onward movement. To stand still is to stagnate, to 

 deteriorate, and to decay. In obedience to this prin- 

 ciple, no variety of Indian corn can long remain 

 stationary. If neglected, it will degenerate. If 

 rightly treated it will advance slowly, perhaps, but 

 surely, toward perfection. 



The means by which this improvement is to be 

 effected are extremely simple. So simple, indeed, that 

 we might reasonably expect to witness greater prog- 

 ress than we have yet seen. In order to secure this 

 object, the chief points requiring the attention of the 

 farmer are Selection and Culture. 



Every man who will exercise suitable care and 

 judgment in the selection of his seed, without neglect- 

 ing its subsequent cultivation, will find the quality 

 of his grain and the amount of its product annually 

 progressing ; and the difference of a very few years 

 will be so marked and unmistakable as to excite his 

 surprise. 



This principle of selection, if we did but realize it, 

 is one of great extent and importance, and is capable 

 of a very wide application. Its effects may be traced 

 throughout the animal as well as vegetable kingdom, 

 and the field of its influence is coextensive with the 

 propagating universe. The valuable results it has ac- 

 complished, as seen in the various improved breeds of 

 cattle, have long engaged the attention of farmers ; 

 and the practical application of the same law in the 

 vegetable kingdom, though more recent, has been 

 found no less favorable and certain in its effects. 



