20 Remarks on different Grains. 



them counted. In these were contained an average of 

 374- grains each. Six heads of the Ble d'abondance, 

 not selected, but taken at random, contained an average 

 of 93- grains each, and the aggregate heavy in propor- 

 tion. Each grain, I believe, contains as much fari- 

 naceous substance as that of the common wheat, 

 though in shape more globular, and not so long. The 

 straw is so powerfully strong, that it resisted all winds 

 ^nd heavy showers, and remained erect, while other 

 grain felj, wholly or partially, under the attacks of 

 wind and rain. I fear, however, that reapers will com- 

 plain much, while cutting any extensive field of such 

 grain. I shall sow it this season in broad cast, and 

 inform of the result. It ripens somewhat late, and 

 I most dread the mildew, blight, or rust. 



No. 2. The big rye. 



I sent a sample of the heads and straw. I have ob- 

 tained on^ bushel from half a pint, drilled and trans- 

 planted. Both the grain and straw have undergone 

 a change from those sent by General Armstrong. 

 The grain is flinty, like rice, and the straw more pipy. 

 I have heard the same account from some of my 

 friends, to whom I distributed parts of my original 

 stock. I should be indeed sorry, if it should continue 

 to exhibit such symptoms of deterioration ; having 

 formed high expectations of the superior excellence o'f 

 this grain. I find it to be a fortuitous discovery in 

 France ; and cultivated, to any extent, but by a ftw : 

 by our D. Parker, Esq. the most. It ripens early, 

 and about the same time with winter barley ; which 

 it resembles more than it does our common rye. I con- 

 tinue to cherish favourable hppes as to this grain ; and 



