120 APPKNDIX. 



these persons are sometimes a prey to speculators, 

 and sometimes, erring on the contrary extreme, they 

 conceive extravagant notions, and refuse to sell at a 

 fair price. Hence Agriculture suffers — either the 

 lands remain a desert, or they are occupied by poor 

 intruders, who knowing the instability of their title, 

 are afraid to attempt any valuable improvement. 

 These people, with few exceptions, lead a wretched 

 life, and are apt to imbibe sentiments hostile to the 

 proprietors of the soil, whom they consider as natural 

 enemies. Could the parties but see each other, very 

 different feelings might prevail. A little kindness 

 and condescension on the part of the proprietor might 

 convert a discontented trespasser, into a useful tenant 

 or purchaser. That this has happened in many in- 

 stances, I know ; which induces me to think, that 

 Avere the trial made, it would happen in many more. 

 Where large property of this kind, is in the hands 

 of heads of families with several children, one or two 

 of the sons might manage the estate to great advan- 

 tage, by living on the spot. Agents are expensive, 

 and often unfaithful. But one may confide in his own 

 blood. Besides, the very circumstance of a well 

 educated young man residing in any place, will natu- 

 rally attract others of similar qualifications, to the 

 same spot ; and thus an agreeable society might be 



