24 



IIASSACHUSETTS AGRICULTURE. 



Balance in favor of farm, 

 "Whaxklt, November 12, 1853. 



$1,854 50 



HAMPSHIRE. 



Agriculture is not excelled in importance, not equalled even, 

 by any other art. When it floui'ishes, every other branch of 

 business thrives. More than three-fourths of our population 

 are employed in cultivating the earth. If crops are abundant, 

 and find ready markets and remunerating prices, producers 

 become liberal in their expenditures. Merchants, in conse- 

 quence, make large sales, and manufacturers readily dispose of 

 goods. Mechanics are employed in the erection of buildings, 

 or in making the numerous articles of comfort, or convenience, 

 suited to gratify the love of the ornamental and beautiful. On 

 the other hand, if. through lack of science or industry, or of the 

 timely rain and sunshine, the earth fails to "yield her increase," 

 this great national bank ceases to discount. The farmer -will 

 buy only what he absolutely needs. Provisions rise in price as 



