INTRODVCTIOl^i- ITSi* 



may consider it as a heaven-taught art; as one for 

 wliich no talent is required, and no knowledge beyond 

 the meanest practical education requisite. To such per- 

 sons we would remark, that although it has been the 

 oldest of all the arts, and therefore it is more difficult 

 to trace its history than that of any other, yet if we ex- 

 amine the implements of Agriculture, and the various 

 modes of cultivation, we shall be convinced that it owes 

 as much to genius and invention, and a spirit of improve- 

 ment, as any other." 



'' In a philosophic view,. Agriculture is great and ex- 

 tensive. In a political view, it is important, and per- 

 haps the only firm and stable foundation of greatness. — 

 As a profession, it strengthens the mind, without ener- 

 vating the body. In morals, it tends to increase virtue, 

 without introducing vice. In religion, it naturally in- 

 spires piety, devotion, and a dependence on providence, 

 without a tincture of infidelity. It is a rational and 

 agreeable amusement to the man of leisure, and abound- 

 less source of contemplation and activity to the indust- 

 trious." 



Should the present work, the result of considerable 

 study and careful observation, contribute to the promo- 

 tion of that art, which is the basis of all the others, the 

 editors will be highly gratified. They feel unwilling to 

 close this introductory part without briefly contrasting 

 the happy state of American farmers, with the deplora- 

 ble condition of very many cultivators in Europe. 



France, the fairest portion of Europe ; renowned for 

 its fertility of soil, and the miid temperature of its sea- 

 sons : France, the country of La Fayette, was cultivat- 

 ed till lately by a wretched peasantry, who were but one 

 remove from the oppressed Serfs (slaves) of the semi- 

 barbarian nobles of the north.* Such was the state of 

 that peasantry, that the amiable Saint Pierre.querulous- 



2* 



