112 COMMISSION ON COUNTRY LIFE 



dream that it is possible to have most that is best 

 of the city in the country. 



The time has come when we must give as much 

 attention to the constructive development of the 

 open country as we have given to other affairs. 

 This is necessary not only in the interest of the 

 open country itself, but for the safety and prog- 

 ress of the nation. 



It is impossible, of course, to suggest remedies 

 for all the shortcomings of country life. The 

 mere statement of the conditions, as we find 

 them, ought of itself to challenge attention to 

 the needs. We hope that this report of the Com- 

 mission will accelerate all the movements that 

 are now in operation for the betterment of coun- 

 try life. Many of these movements are beyond 

 the reach of legislation. The most important 

 thing for the Commission to do is to apprehend 

 the problem and to state the conditions. 



The philosophy of the situation requires that 

 the disadvantages and handicaps that are not a 

 natural part of the farmer's business shall be re- 

 moved, and that such forces shall be encouraged 

 and set in motion as will stimulate and direct 

 local initiative and leadership. 



