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those philanthropic men who arc devising plans for 

 the suppression of that debasing and destructive prac- 

 tice of intemperance. Horticultural societies are in 

 a measure auxiliary to this benevolent design, in ad- 

 ministering an antidote to that baneful indulgence 

 which makes havoc of the mind, by furnishing a sub- 

 stitute in the wholesome beverage expressed from the 

 apple, the pear, the grape and the currant, as in the 

 solace to be derived from the natural and ordinary 

 use of the fruit. 



Rural architecture may not inappropriately claim a 

 passing notice on the present occasion. It has not 

 hitherto, here, received the attention it deserves. 

 One reason why it has not, is probably the unwilling- 

 ness, or the apprehension of incurring an expensive 

 outlay, without the immediate prospect of an ade- 

 quate return. This, I think, it may be made apparent, 

 is niore imaginary than real. It is not to be denied 

 that large sums have been injudiciously expended in 

 the construction of some of our rural retreats, and 

 more especially in the erection of the house, the pre- 

 paration of gravel-walks, the construction of observa- 

 tories, artificial caverns, fish-ponds, etc. Those who 

 possess the means have an unquestionable right to 

 gratify their tastes, and indulge their fancies, in such 

 expenditures, but it does not follow that others, with 

 more limited resources, may not procure as much 

 satisfaction by a less conspicuous display of their 

 tastes and their fancies. Durability in the materials 

 selected, and convenience and simplicity in the de- 

 sign and construction of the house, are all that is 



