1889.] TRANSACTIONS. 21 



ing cultivation, others growing in grass, and those pruned and 

 unpruned, have been alike affected. Tliis disease will afford an 

 excellent opportunity for scientists to exhibit their skill in discov- 

 erino; an effectual cure." 



The symptoms described by Mr. Thomas are markedly similar 

 to some which, in the recent experience of your Secretary, have 

 characterized the failure of Winter Nelis. Trees show white 

 with bloom, a profusion of young fruit, thereafter a cessation of 

 enlargement, until finally scab or scale, cracking, culminating in 

 the premature fall of a worthless crop. Abundant manure or 

 none, root-pruning, shortening-in of branches or allowance of 

 rampant growth, — it was all the same in the end. Can the 

 Docents explain ? 



The selection of certain varieties by Mr. Thomas, and his 

 approval so far as it goes, has almost exclusive relation to mar- 

 ket purposes. Of Anjou, he say tliat an "experienced commis- 

 sion merchant remarked that, if this pear only had a fine red 

 cheek, it would be the best of all market varieties." He describes 

 Lawrence as a "late Autumn and early Winter pear, of fine 

 quality, but not equal to the best, is only partially melting. 



* * * It is a good market variety." Of that deceptive 

 beauty, Clairgeau ; — " the pears arc large, smooth, and when 

 well ripened and have become soft, they are excellent in quality. 



* * * Trees fifteen years or more of age uniformly bear 

 pears of good quality, and the variety proves one of the best for 

 market." He adds that the Howell is profitable; but, of the 

 Bartlett, enough cannot be written in praise. 



All which may suffice for incentive to individual cultivators. 

 But Pomology exacts something more. And even our venerable 

 associate might do wisely to keep fresh in mind, when prosecuting 

 his favorite science, the grand legend upon the seal of his imperial 

 State. Excelsior is not a motto for the average market ! Should 

 not Horticulture set truth before the people ? Accustom them to 

 the best, and esteem nothing too good for their taste or consump- 

 tion ! Were your Secretary to frame a list for the owners of 

 small homesteads ; — a list of pears that he considers indispensable 



