of a great system^ diffusing light and life to every portion 

 of its dependencies ? Gentlemen, the occasion appealiS 

 to your feelings and to your understandings. Your ex- 

 ample is decisive of success. You have achieved great 

 things — the limits of more extensive usefulness are en- 

 larged. Teach your cowitrymen to rely alone ^ under Heav- 

 en^ on their own abundant and sufficient resources. Fast- 

 en on their minds the solemn truth, that foreign cupidity 

 and selfishness possess no compassion, no benevolence-^ 

 and never casts its measures by a single regard to the wel- 

 fare of its victims. 



Permit mc, gentlemen, to ask your attention to our 

 more immediate local concerns. In the improved state of 

 Berkshire^ we recognize the evidence of your industry 

 and exertions in promoting all our useful rural pursuits. 

 Only six years ago, the agricultural concerns of the Coun- 

 ty were stationary. Few, if any valuable improvements 

 were attempted. Indifference and unconcern seemed to 

 have pervaded society. In 1811, the Genius of the Coun- 

 ty shook off the leaden slumbers of our husbandmen, and 

 the spirit of improvement commenced. Under the aus- 

 pices of your Association, a career of usefulness was re- 

 sumed, and diligently prosecuted. The former state of 

 things has given way to a new condition, unfolding on us 

 improvements, in variety and usefulness, surpassing the 

 most sanguine expectations. Every department of rural 

 employment demonstrates an intelligent cultivation, and 

 more effectual good management. In the selection and 

 rearing of domestic animals, more correct information 

 prevails, and greater emulation is awakened. A disposi- 

 tion for enquiry and experiments is prevalent, and gives 

 assurance that the conviction of tillage over pastoral hus- 

 bandry, possesses incalculable benefits. The vast in- 

 crease, variety and excellence in our crops, satisf}- our 

 warmest desires, and leave us nothing to wish, and noth- 



