1892.] TRANSACTIONS. 7 



I 



as consists in Pomology. Exhibitions are well enough in their 

 way, as a means to an end. But whether there are exhibitions 

 or none at all, Horticulture, which dates from the birth of man- 

 kind, will continue; and perish only with the last of the race. 

 There can be no dispute that our Exhibitions this year, when 

 held, offered superior attractions. Will it not be well to try, 

 yet awhile longer, so that we may learn if the path upon which 

 we so lately entered may not be better, of itself, and still more 

 conducive to " advancing the science and encouraging and im- 

 proving the practice of Horticulture " ! The coming year, at 

 least, many of our Members will be sorely tempted to absent 

 themselves in attendance upon the Columbian Exposition, with 

 which no attractions that we can propose, in competition, would 

 hold out the slio-htest allurement. Be it the mass of flowers 

 and fruit, or the crowded attendance, each influencing and in 

 its turn reacted upon by the other, the fact is beyond dispute 

 that the close touch of elbow is as essential to success in the 

 amicable rivalry of Horticultural Exhibitions, as in the heat 

 and press of hostile engagements. There is greater incitement 

 to please a multitude than to satisfy a few individual friends. 

 And it must always rest with ourselves, by the efibrt that we 

 put forth, whether we shall merit the triumph that crowns 

 desert, or be supinely content to " waste our sweetness on the 

 desert air." As your Secretary, I wish it distinctly understood 

 that I have no individual choice in the premises ; being solicit- 

 ous only that your decision between weekly, or occasional, 

 exhibitions may be determined with exclusive reference to the 

 best interests of the Society, — the sole consideration that has 

 influenced his own varying suggestions. 



There are in the United States perhaps fifty [50] Stations, 

 so-called, well endowed for purposes of experiment in matters 

 pertaining to Terr^eculture. That they are diligent in the pur- 

 suit of knowledge, each in its own way, is amply proved in their 

 constant issues of leaflet or bulletin. Whether their aim and 

 ettbrt is as wisely directed as might be, for common advantage, 

 may well be asked by Horticulturists. For in the multiplicity 

 of objects and problems that demand attention, some are 



