1886.] TRANSACTIONS. 7 



ject of preparing a complete catalogue. Thanks to the untiring 

 diligence of Mr. Brooks, a full list of titles and subjects is now 

 ready and, with your approval, it will be in print as soon as a 

 due regard for accuracy will allow. The Committee propose to 

 keep close watch of the book-market ; so as to avail themselves, 

 in your behalf, of the rare opportunities to perfect those sets of 

 serial publications in whose pages may be found so much curious 

 and useful lore pertaining to our pursuits. There are many 

 works that exceed in cost the means of individual horticulturists, 

 yet which are essential to a full and thorough mastery of their 

 profession ; and which ought therefore to become our property 

 whenever the chance presents itself. 



An Act has passed both branches of Congress and received 

 the approval of the President, establishing Pomology as a divi- 

 sion in the Department of Agriculture. The extent to which 

 any such Division or Bureau shall become useful, must, of course, 

 depend largel}^ u])on the personal qualities of its chief. The 

 first and present incumbent, Mr. H. E. Van Deman, of Kansas, 

 talks well ; manifesting in an address before the new American 

 Horticultural Society a clear perception of possibilities and ex- 

 pediencies. Thus he remarks : — 



" Perhaps one of the most useful things that might properly be un- 

 dertaken by the Division of Pomology, provided means are given for 

 that purpose, would be the establishment and maintenance of experi- 

 mental stations, where they would best seive the greatest number, and 

 at the least cost." * ' * * * * * * 



"Piivate experimental grounds already under way, and those of the 

 Agricultural Colleges, might, at least in some cases, be enlarged, 

 assisted, and utilized." ****** 



"The production and consumption of fruits, both fresh and cured, 

 is in value perhaps scarcely less than that of the cereals, and it is only 

 fair that similar attention be given in the collection of inforraiation 

 and its proper discrimination. Foreign markets should also be investi- 

 gated with a view to benefiting the home producer." * * * * 



''Careful investigations of new fruits, and old ones of a special in- 

 terest, and their adaptability to the various sections of our country, 

 deserve prompt and personal attention by those who may be skilled in 

 pomological matters. The same person should examine our fruits as 

 they are found growing under the diversified conditions of soil, climate, 

 and culture." ******** 



