118 MIDDLESEX SOCIETY. 



great remissness in the dilatory manner in which the reports and 

 statements have been made, and in many cases an utter neglect 

 to return them at all. No institution can long prosper, and ex- 

 ert a beneficial influence, where this laxity in the management of 

 its affairs exists. No premium should ever be paid until the 

 claimant has satisfied every requirement of the laws of the as- 

 sociation, in making a clear and comprehensive statement of 

 the facts in the case. If this is not done, the prime object of 

 the society, — that of giving others the benefit of his successful 

 experiments, — is defeated. 



The address was delivered by George S. Boutwell, Esq., of 

 Groton. 



On Farms, &c. 



The premiums for the best cultivated farms were claimed by 

 nine individuals, for reclaimed peat and bog meadows, by seven, 

 and for apple orchards, by six. 



The committee were gratified with the general appearance 

 of all the farms, which came under their observation. When 

 we consider the vast amount of labor which has been performed 

 by farmers, and realize that it is the main source whence the 

 great family of man derive subsistence, it is truly an object 

 worthy the consideration of this community, the encourage- 

 ment of good husbandry. When we call to mind the trials our 

 fathers endured in subduing the soil, the limited knowledge 

 they must necessarily have had, in regard to agriculture, and 

 the clumsy implements which they were obliged to use, to gain 

 a scanty livelihood, have we not cause to be grateful, that we 

 live in this day of agricultural improvements? 



The first farm examined, was that of William Wheeler, of 

 Acton. His farm contains about eighty-five acres, mostly of 

 upland. He has done a vast amount of hard work in removing 

 rocks, rebuilding stone walls, and setting trees, but has not, in 

 the estimation of the committee, brought his land into that 

 state, which, in a model farm, is desirable. Yet the committee 

 saw much in his labors that was praiseworthy, and think him 

 deserving great credit for his persevering industry. 



