XVI INTRODUCTION. 



merous failures that present themselves to our 

 view on every side, and much valuable informa- 

 tion has been arrived at by observation, but this 

 has generally been found a very expensive 

 means of gaining it. Under the excitement of 

 "pear fever," many persons planted large 

 fields without any preparation of the soil. 

 Others selected long lists of varieties that 

 were unsuited to their soil and climate. Oth- 

 ers, again, believed that a fruit tree pnce in 

 place could take care of itself without further 

 expense or trouble to its owner. 



It is only necessary to say in this connec- 

 tion that with such treatment and want of 

 definite knowledge, pear culture cannot prove 

 profitable. It is admitted to be necessary in 

 the raising of fine live stock, as a business, 

 that we must first become thoroughly familiar 

 with the good and bad points of animals, the 

 best and most economical methods of feeding, 

 also the causes and treatment of the various 

 diseases to which animals are subject, before 

 we can pursue the vocation with any hope of 

 success. The same is true of the orchardist. 

 He should study the nature and habits of his 

 trees, for the same treatment will not answer 

 for all kinds ; he should also know the prox- 



