FARMS. 



119 



In farming I have endeavored to avoid all doubtful experi- 

 ments, having in view a gradual improvement ; which may 

 seem a slow process, but in the end will bring a sure reward. 

 In cultivated crops, corn for instance, we have in no case applied 

 over 25 loads of manure to the acre, and that in some instances 

 to the very poorest land we have. Whereas, if we had selected 

 our best acres, and applied manure enough, we might have shown 

 a greater number of bushels, and possibly arrive at what would 

 be called a premium crop. But we have taken our acres in 

 rotation as they needed breaking up, feeling assured that by 

 proper rotation of crops, the land is, instead of being reduced 

 from year to year, increasing in fertility. Tlie appearance of 

 certain lots (old fields) now, compared with former years, war- 

 rants this conclusion. 



In the following items of expenses and products, wheat and 

 oats are not included : — 



Expenses. 

 Interest on improved 

 land and buildings, 1182 00 

 Taxes on the above, 36 00 

 Labor, . . .175 00 

 Manure, . . 130 00 



Keeping cows & sheep 



one year, . . 160 00 

 Grass seed, . . 10 24 

 Keeping poultry, 21 



hens, since Jan. 1, 



1868, . . 17 00 



$710 24 



$941 67 

 710 24 



1231 43 

 Halifax, Oct. 22, 1863. 



