STATE POMOLOGICAL SOCIETY. IJ 



inwardly digest" it so that all can turn it to valuable account in 

 securing better fruit, better prices, better education for our 

 families, better homes, better people ; and better people means 

 a better world to live in. 



We must not be discouraged, however, because the real spirit 

 of investigation and progress is in the air. It was an inspira- 

 tion to see many of the Grange and fair exhibits this year, a 

 large percent of them being placed on the tables without expec- 

 tation of a premium. 



For the good of our society I would suggest that in the future 

 we arrange prizes to encourage box and barrel competition, 

 gradually eliminating the plate exhibits, which encourage so 

 many undesirable varieties. Furthermore five specimens are 

 (it is said, but I hardly think it is true) too easily borrowed for 

 the occasion. 



Display exhibits in box and barrel competition will encourage 

 apple dealers to attend our. meetings, thereby developing the 

 commercial side as well as the aesthetic. 



Two years ago you honored me. I appreciate your confidence 

 and thank you. I did the best I could under existing condi- 

 tions. I know not what is in store for me, but this I do know, 

 that if my future path be laid out for me in Maine it will be 

 through pleasant places. 



Always let the customary horticultural good fellowship reign 

 in your midst and may showers of blessings attend your eflforts. 



"What plant we in this apple tree? 

 Sweets for a hundred flowering springs. 

 To load the May wind's restless wings, 

 When from the orchard row, he pours, 

 Its fragrance through the open doors ; 

 A world of blossoms for the bee. 

 Flowers for the sick girl's silent room, 

 For the glad infants, sprigs of bloom 

 We plant with the apple tree." 



