404 BOARD OF AGRICULTUEE. 



painted by the hand of an old master with such perfection 

 that the countenance seemed so illumined with an expression 

 of grace, pity and love that we could almost feel the influence 

 of His personal presence, and we have looked and turned 

 away, only to return spell-bound with tender admiration. 



Who has not felt the mysterious influences and been moved 

 in the profound depths of consciousness by the "Divine 

 Art " of Mozart, Handel and Beethoven ? What an inspira- 

 tion to deeds of heroic self-sacrifice for real or supposed 

 good ! And what a source of comfort, pleasure and happi- 

 ness to mankind, holding its power through the ages over all 

 races of men ! 



Can we not properly claim a place as a companion of high 

 art for skilled Horticulture, which, directing the forces of 

 nature, evolves from the lifeless clod objects of utility and 

 beauty, croAvned with blessings and delights far excelling; in 

 perfection works of sculpture and painting, speaking to 

 human hearts throuo-h a silent language as suggestive and 

 uplifting in influence and culture as the finest music? There- 

 fore, is she not entitled to at least honorable mention and 

 high rank among the so-called Fine Arts ? 



" Your v'oiceless lips, O flowers, are living preachers, 

 Each cup a pulpit, every leaf a book, 

 Supplying to my fancy numerous teachers 

 From loneliest nook. 



" Were I in churchless solitudes remaining, 

 Far from all voice of teachers and divines. 

 My soul would find in flowers of God's ordaining 

 Priests, sermons, shrines." 



— Horace Smith. 



The work and influence of this Society is a constant public 

 benefaction, by the introduction of new and improved varie- 

 ties of vegetables, fruits and flowers, and illustrating the 

 best methods of their cultivation, stimulating the ambition of 

 people to improve and excel in these specialties. 



Some one has said that no person could eat of our choicest 

 grapes, apples and pears without being indebted to the genius 

 of :Marshall P. Wilder. 



The influence of the Society is not confined to this or the 

 New England States. Its members and patrons are, many 



