46 



as to probabilities; but the technical difference between Lab- 

 radorite and Orthoclase felspar, is far too deep a subject for 

 anyone unskilled in Chemistry and Geology to attempt, yet 

 an analysis of their composition snows the great value of a 

 slight knowledge in that direction, the former being rich in 

 Lime and the latter in Potash ; but here again fortunately 

 in this country disintegration is far more rapid than in more 

 temperate countries and as the Planter mostly has to deal 

 with virgin soil containing the accumulated organic and in- 

 organic remains of centuries, he may generally hope for suc- 

 cess by merely using ordinary care in selection, provided 

 always, that the extent, foundation, and general appearance 

 of the soil receive his careful attention, and that the land is 

 situated in a locality otherwise favorable for the cultivation 

 of coffee. The available supply of Phosphoric Acid in most 

 jungle soils of good quality is generally sufficient for several 

 crops but immediately any diminution in vigor or yield is 

 noticed it should be a matter of paramount importance to 

 endeavour by scientific examination to determine whether 

 the store or supply is equal to the demand. The 

 rapid exhaustion of this important element is unhappi- 

 ly often neglected until the plantation has suffered a severe 

 check. It is also a problem for science to solve whether the 

 supply of Sulphuric Acid being diminished has anything to 

 do with the annual increase of fungoid diseases. We al- 

 ways hear of Sulphur as a remedy for the parasites affecting 

 the Vine and the Hop, and I maintain th*t although Coffee 

 Planters* could not be expected actually to supply every- 

 thing that may be indicated as necessary to maintain 

 their trees in vigor, still that should not prevent them 

 using as remedial agents, certain elements of plant 

 food when such are proved by careful analysis to 

 be deficient in the soil. The greatest aim should bo 

 to assist Nature. The cultivation of a special class of 

 tree bearing a crop, which is entirely removed from the soil 

 is diametrically opposed to all known principles of Nature's 



