XIV INTRODUCTION. 



results of the recent change in the corn laws of that country, 

 with lower prices, and extensive imports of foreign grain, 

 rents of farms still keep up, and in some instances increase, 

 from the benefits derived in the extended drainage of lands, 

 and the application of new manures to them. Such advan- 

 tages are now conceded by the tenant farmers themselves, a 

 majority of whom are as actively engaged in the improvement 

 of their lands under long leases, as their landlords, who hold 

 the benefits of such improvement in reversion. 



The American farmer has his prejudices also. But the 

 avenues of intelligence are fully open to him. The proprietor 

 of his own acres, his self-interest excites inquiry into the read- 

 iest means of rendering them productive; and the spreading 

 before him in understandable and attractive shape the requi- 

 site information, will usually meet a ready response in his 

 efforts at the improvement of both his personal and pecuniary 

 condition. These pages contain much practical instruction 

 in manures and cultivation, as well as in draining ; and with 

 the exception of what may relate to " Landlord and Tenant,' 

 in England, and some other matter appurtenant thereto, (which, 

 by the way, it will be quite instructive for an American to 

 understand,) we scarcely know of an equal amount of reading 

 which he can study with more profit. In the hope that this 

 work will impart the full measure of benefit to the husbandly 

 of our country that may be desired, it is cordially commended 

 to the American public. 



