vi PREFACE 



2. So to present the subject that it may be mastered 

 rather by stimulated observation and quickened thought 

 than by mere memorizing. 



3. To make a teachable book, one that will present 

 fewest possible difficulties to a teacher who has had no 

 special training in either the theory or practice of agri- 

 culture. The effort has been made to lead the pupil by 

 easy steps from the known to the less familiar subjects, 

 and from the concrete example to the general law or 

 principle. 



4. To make the language simple enough to be readily 

 understood by a pupil in the sixth grade of the common 

 schools, and yet to present the subject with enough system 

 and substance to suit the pupils in the high school. 



5. To emphasize, amplify, and illustrate a few princi- 

 ples, which, when understood and practiced, have the 

 power to revolutionize Southern farm practice and to 

 promote the permanent prosperity of the farmer and of 

 the state. 



The author's experience as a teacher, his long study 

 and practice of agriculture, and his association with chil- 

 dren, lead him to think that all these aims can be real- 

 ized. He must leave to his fellow-teachers of the South 

 the verdict whether this book approaches his cherished 

 ideals. 



Recognizing the fact that provision has not been made 

 for the special instruction of teachers in agriculture and 

 that many are not familiar with farm practice, he adds 

 this message to all such teachers. You can teach this 

 subject effectively even without this acquaintance with 



