1882.] TRANSACTIONS. 21 



who has ever filled a barrel with Apples can easily compute for 

 himself whence comes that return of 25 shillings sterling. The 

 Orchard should be, and can be made, the most valuable property 

 of the New England farmstead. A property wherefrom a 

 larger and surer profit may be derived, at the least expense of 

 labor and trouble. But this will not be achieved, by going 

 about various business throughout eleven months of the year ; 

 expecting to gather a perfect crop, without other toil than that 

 of picking, in t)ie harvest moon. The trees must be tended with 

 vigilance, and generously nurtured ; for at one and the same 

 time, they are exhausting the soil and themselves. Above all, — 

 must Insects be fought with relentless purpose. Men set out an 

 Orchard and then consider their work done. They do not 

 anticipate such easy returns when plariting corn or potatoes ; 

 but cultivate continually, and without grudging the labor, until 

 tlie field can be laid by, securely. Not until the Orchard is 

 allowed its proper rank ; as a means of supplying sustenance, 

 and a chief bread-winner ; will the harvest become what it can 

 surely be made. It is true enough that success caimot always 

 be compelled ; no matter what may have been the preliminary 

 diligence and precaution. But it is still more certain that 

 Fortune will not intrude upon those who avoid her, or evince 

 indifierence to her favors. The desire to possess and enjoy fine 

 specimens is not limited to those who frequent our Exhibitions. 

 Their multitude is as great as the love of fruit is general. And, 

 while not all can buy choice Apples, or Pears ; it is beyond 

 dispute, so rapidly has the common taste been educated by this 

 and kindred Societies, that there will soon be no demand at all 

 for fruit that is evidently inferior. 



But yet it is common rumor that our lanes and country roads 

 are even now ravaged by what may well be termed Orchard- 

 Scavengers. It is currently reported that buyers are scouring 

 tlie outlying towns of this County, contracting for any and every 

 thing ; indifierent whetlier it may or not be mature ; and reckless 

 of future consequences so long as a present market is in 

 immediate prospect. The veteran pomologists who hear me, 

 know that a nice barrel of Apples cannot be packed in this, the 

 year of abundance, without extreme precaution. You have heard 

 4 



