148 HAMPDEN SOCIETY. 



Richard Bliss ; a basket of the Washington peach, very hand- 

 some, by H. L. Bunker, of Springfield ; very fine specimens of 

 grapes, and in great profusion, by Freeman Bangs, of Spring- 

 field. There were also rich specimens of pears from the gar- 

 dens of R. Whittier, of Cabotville, Aaron Ashley, West Spring- 

 field, and S. Colby, Springfield. The secretary of the Society, 

 Mr. Vose, also presented for exhibition several varieties of very 

 choice pears from an eastern garden not unknown to fame. 



The Isabella grapes, and the rural architecture surrounding 

 them, from the garden of the treasurer of the Society, Mr. 

 Brewer, attracted deservedly great attention. There was also 

 a beautiful specimen of grapes from Otis Briggs. 



Where so many have brought forward specimens of fruit of 

 great excellence, purely to show what can be done, and to en- 

 courage others, the warmest thanks of the society and of the 

 community are due to them as public benefactors. 



To Pliny Merrick, of Wilbraham, who entered twenty varie- 

 ties of apples, — several of great excellence, — a premium of one 

 dollar is awarded ; to C. B. Kittredge, of Monson, for quinces, 

 fifty cents ; and to Mrs. E. C. Hunt, of Longmeadow, for ap- 

 ples, fifty cents. 



In the department of flowers, which so greatly ornamented 

 the hall, and in the tasteful arrangement of which, the thanks 

 of the Society are due to B. K. Bliss and Charles A. Mann, 

 there was, considering the advanced season of the year, an ex- 

 traordinary proportion. 



The splendid bouquets, the fine pots of plants, and the one 

 hundred and fifty dahlias, furnished by Mr. Bliss, attest the sin- 

 cerity and efficacy of his efforts ; nor is mention to be omitted of 

 the taste and skill of his gardener. 



The committee have endeavored to give a general view of the 

 exhibition. They are sure they do but express the common 

 sentiment, in congratulating the community on the success which 

 has attended the exertions of the Society, in behalf of Horti- 

 culture. 



S. L. PARSONS. 



