t 73 ] 



Let us pause here, and seriously consider the advantages of to** 

 tract in comparison with datiy labor. The English laborer is na- 

 turally disposed to vigorous exertion, if encouraged thereto, either 

 by an increase of wages, or by the exhilarating influence of good 

 cheer. 



Do we not sec in times of harvest a degree of activity, exhi- 

 bited unknown at other times of the year ? and this at a season 

 when the heat of the weather naturally induces fatigue. 



Do not the manufacturer and artisan, almost of every description, 

 have recourse to contract labcr ? and though their workmen earn 

 from 10s. to 30s. per week, do they not find their account jn so 

 doing, from the emulation which it excites, and the perfection of 

 workmanship which it produces ? 



Must it not be acknowledged, that in those countries where daily 

 labor is the prevailing mode, a slow and indolent habit is generated, 

 which neither promises nor threats can intirely overcome, to the 

 great injury of the commonwealth, as well as of the farmer. Sup- 

 pose we allow the average rate of daily labor to be i6d. and admit 

 that by contract, men will be excited to earn 2od. what an addition 

 of useful labor would be created, taking it in an aggregate point 

 of view. 



But I must not enter too widely into this field of discussion, and 

 shall only add, that in respect to the operation of ploughing, the 

 method now suggested can only be subject to two objections. 



First the possibility of the cattle being injured by too great exer- 

 tion ; and secondly, imperfection in the execution. 



Both these are easily obviated by stating, that the eye of the 

 master may see, and his judgment may direct, so as to preclude the 

 possibility of imposition, without detection. 



Dispatch at particular seasons of the year may be considered as 

 invaluable, particularly in respect to spring and summer crops. A 

 dry and favourable season for sowing occurs in March ; by contract 

 labor, and improved instruments, you are enabled to plough and 

 •sow double the usual quantity. The increased produce in compari- 

 son with a sowing in April, may be fairly calculated at more than 

 the rent of the land, exclusive of the comparative cheapness. The 

 same argument will hold good, in respect to flax, hemp, turnips, 

 potatoesj cabbages, summer fallows; &c, &c, 



It 



