APPENDIX. xxix 



The second day was the show of horses and colts ; some of which 

 were superior ; and the j)loughing match, which was attended with 

 considerable interest, and the ploughing was very well done. 



The third day, the first thing in order was the address, by Rich- 

 ard Goodman, Esq., president of the society ; which was listened 

 to for more than an hour with uncommon interest, and was the better 

 for being a home production. 



The awai'ds of the several committees were then read, and the 

 premiums delivered, mostly in plate, to the amount of nearly 

 $1,800, to the successful competitors. The payment of premiums in 

 something of this kind as a keepsake, I think, far preferable to a few 

 dollars in money, which often take to themselves wings and fly 

 away. 



This ancient and honorable society, with 900 members, paid out 

 in premiums at the show, in cash and plate, more than |2,200 ; and 

 after paying its other expenses, has a balance in the treasury of 

 more than $3,200 ; and with its efficient board of officers, is in a 

 sound and healthy condition. They have ample grounds, fitted by 

 nature for the purpose, with a good track for the exhibition of 

 horses ; and I am happy to say the society for the coming year 

 oflTer no extra premium for fast horses. 



I would suggest that less money jiaid in premiums and more 

 for pi-inting information through its Transactions would vastly 

 increase the influence and value of the society. In no way can a 

 society fulfil its mission so efficiently, or do so much good as by dis- 

 tributing able and instructive rejjorts among the people. 



Their hall is sufficient for pur|30ses of exhibition, but they have no 

 hall, (as most younger societies have), where members and others 

 with their wives and children, can gather around the social dinner 

 table ; yet there were ample provisions for the inner man in a part 

 of the hall building and on the grounds. I shall ever remember 

 the hospitality, the coui'tesy and attention I received from the 

 officers of the society and others, during my three days of cattle 

 show acquaintance ; for which, they have my hearty thanks. 



Thomas Billings, 



HOOSAC VALLEY. 



It was my good fortune to be present at the ninth annual fiiir of 

 the Hoosac Valley Society, held at North Adams, September 22d, 

 23d, and 24th, and in the absence of the regular delegate of the 

 Board, submit the following RejDort by special request : — 



