102 ESSEX SOCIETY. 



named, are not all at our command, but if they are correctly 

 cited, (and there is no reason to suppose they are not,) it is not 

 easy to see how the conclusion to which the author has arrived, 

 can be controverted. It must be gratifying to every true Amer- 

 ican, to know that our own land is justly entitled to the honor 

 of originating this plant. While other lands may boast of their 

 products of tea and coffee, of universal use, our own can claim 

 corn and potatoes, of name more humble, but of character not 

 less valuable. 



The essay on the culture of this plant, appears to be the pro- 

 duction of the hard hands themselves, that conducted the cul- 

 tivation ; putting forth the suggestions as they sprung from the 

 soil, when following the plough, or wielding the hoe, uncon- 

 taminated by any influences of the press. We cordially greet 

 such suggestions. The diversity in the character and style of 

 the papers, has increased the interest in their examination. 



After the day of grace had gone by, an offer was made, of 

 an essay on "Root Crops." But the trustees, upon delibera- 

 tion, determined not to be tempted into a deviation from the 

 rule prescribed. Possibly, what is lost in one form, may be 

 made up in another. The subject is one on which much can 

 be advantageously said. The comparative value of these crops 

 is but imperfectly understood. Many raise them, without dis- 

 tinct ideas of their use. If farmers would carefully observe 

 their effects on the soils in which they are grown, as well as 

 on the animals to which they are fed, and give an account of 

 their observation, they would instruct themselves, and do a 

 good service to their neighbors. 



It is gratifying to know, that the plan of rewarding well 

 written essays has found favor with several of our sister socie- 

 ties. If persevered in for a few years, we have confidence to 

 believe, it will be the means of eliciting and condensing much 

 valuable information. 



J. W. PROCTOR, -) ^ 



D. P. KING, \ Committee. 



