24 THE CARNATION. 



dung is too great in proportion to that of the loam, 

 I answer, that such an objection might be well- 

 founded, if the compost were to be used immediately 

 on its being mixed together ; but as it has to lie six 

 months before it is used, I am decidedly of opinion 

 that the quantity is not more than is necessary in 

 order to insure a luxuriant growth and a generous 

 bloom. 



It is, moreover, indispensably necessary, that the 

 compost should lie that time ; that the different in- 

 gredients may be properly incorporated one with 

 another ; that the loam may be well pulverized, and 

 the whole duly prepared and sweetened by frequent 

 turning ; and that the carbonaceous principle of 

 matter in the dung, according to Hassenfraz, may, 

 through the medium of the rains, like a leaven, ex- 

 tend to and pervade the whole mass, so as to render 

 it fit, wholesome, and nutritious food for the plants 

 it has to sustain. 



