466 MASSACHUSETTS AGRICULTURE. 



THE ECONOMY OF SCIENTIFIC AGRICULTURE. 



From an Address before the Hampshire Society. 



BY KEV. W. CLIFT. 



In calling your attention to tho economy of scientific agri- 

 culture, it is hardly necessary to remark that the science of 

 this art is yet in its infancy, if, indeed, it can be said to be born. 

 Very few cultivators are able to give a reason for the faith that 

 is in them; and the most enlightened of the calling are gener- 

 ally most cautious in assigning the causes of the facts that come 

 to light in their art. Yet there are certain principles of great 

 practical value, so far established as to be safe guides, that 

 ought to be every where disseminated. The tiller of the soil 

 should know, so far as he can, the causes of those beautiful 

 processes in Nature on which success in his art depends. 



It has been often asked, ''What is the use of educating a 

 boy who is to till the soil? He is going to be nothing but a 

 fanner." And the question shows both a low estimate of the 

 occupation and of the qualifications for it. " Can he lift a big- 

 ger stone, or lay a smoother furrow, or drive a team any the 

 better for his learning?" Though it be somewhat heretical, I 

 venture the opinion, that an educated farmer can do the most 

 common farm work all the better for his education. It is mind, 

 enlightened by science and disciplined by the study of the 

 schools, that has given us all the improvements in the imple- 

 ments of husbandry and in the methods of culture that we now 

 enjoy. 



What is meant, then, by a scientific farmer? I do not mean 

 simply a bookworm, who 1ms gone through the routine of col- 

 lege studies. The discipline of college is desirable, if a man 

 would make the most of himself, in any calling; and. were I 

 shaping my own course for this occupation, I would not forego 



