OBJECTS OF THE UNION. 205 



another is the infamous lying sheets, which, while pre- 

 tending to represent the interests of the masses, are 

 fawning upon the minions of monopoly, and doing their 

 bidding under the cloak of hypocrisy. 



Were we asked to define the objects of the Order in 

 as few words as possible, we would answer, * 'it is a school 

 of education." Here the farmer discusses all questions 

 which pertain to his welfare. Its grand objects are not 

 only general improvement in husbandry, but to increase 

 the general happiness, wealth and prosperity of the 

 country. It is founded upon the axiom that the products 

 of the soil comprise the basis of all wealth; that indi- 

 vidual happiness depends upon general intelligence and 

 mental culture of the producing classes. The object is to 

 accomplish a thorough and systematic organization among 

 farmers, horticulturists, and those engaged in rural pur- 

 suits throughout the United States, that will secure 

 among them intimate social relations and acquaintance 

 with each other, for the advancement and elevation of 

 their pursuits, with an appreciation and protection of 

 their true interests. By such means may be accomplished 

 that which exists throughout the country in all other 

 vocations and among all other classes combined co-opera- 

 tive association for the individual improvement and 

 common benefit. Among the advantages which may be 

 derived from the Order, are systematic arrangements for 

 procuring and disseminating, in the most expeditious 

 manner, information relative to crops, demand and sup- 

 ply, prices, markets, and transportation throughout the 

 country; also for the purchase and exchange of stock, 

 seeds and desired varieties of plants and trees, and for the 

 purpose of procuring help and furnishing situations for 

 those seeking employment; also, for ascertaining and 

 testing the merits of newly invented farming implements, 

 and those not in general use, and for detecting and 



