iv PREFACE. 



It has been the aim to observe a careful analysis, 

 separating the subjects into distinct topics, and treat- 

 ing each briefly and concisely. 



Many minor and subordinate topics have been pur- 

 p-jsely omitted. The experience of the author leads him 

 to believe that a thorough knowledge of the few main 

 points of a subject is worth more to the pupil than a 

 confused idea of the whole. 



There are many problems connected with the subject 

 of agriculture which have not yet been solved, and many 

 points which have not been . definitely settled. These 

 are either wholly avoided or briefly mentioned. There 

 is enough which is established beyond question to engage 

 the attention of beginners. 



The first chapters of the work contain but little that 

 belongs peculiarly to the science of agriculture, but they 

 necessarily form the foundation of that science. They 

 comprise some of the leading facts and principles of 

 chemistry, natural philosophy, geology, physical geog- 

 raphy, and botany, particularly such as bear directly 

 upon agriculture and rural life. 



The questions at the end of each chapter are inserted 

 for the especial purpose of assisting such teachers as are 

 not familiar with the subjects, and do not feel competent 

 to present them. As the work is arranged, it is believed 

 that no teacher will find any difficulty in understanding 

 it or making it interesting. 



JUNE, 1891. 



