42 



and we do not yet know of any method of 

 putting them on short allowance ; and if we 

 did, it is not likely they would thrive ; for 

 we find that even other animals cannot suf- 

 fer equal privations and viscissitudes with 

 man : besides, where is the port>fc&ey are to 

 get supply ? The tree therefore ought to be 

 relieved early, by destroying a part of the 

 fruit. 



As I do not know what this superabun- 

 dant blossom is owing to, (but it appears 

 to be a very general, if not universal law of 

 nature, to provide for loss. This is observ- 

 able in the animal world, as well as the ve- 

 getable ; and though we cannot understand 

 the reason, the fact is certain) so I cannot 

 propose a preventative : but the indications 

 of cure will be, to diminish the quantity 

 of fruit, which may be done by cutting off 



