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dispersed to the grounds to witness the feats of equestrianism. The 

 dinner is spoken of by all who were present, as one of the most 

 successful dinners which it had ever been their good fortune to be 

 present at. It was a decided success. 



The beneficial results of the change made, have already developed 

 themselves in every department of the Society's operations. An in- 

 terest in the Society, and the objects it is intended to promote, has 

 been manifested which was never before seen. The fathers and 

 mothers, the sons and daughters of the County, were present at the 

 show, eager and interested spectators or participants in all its exer- 

 cises, and carried to their homes more elevated views of their pur- 

 suit, and stronger desires to excel, as tillers of the soil. 



In a pecuniary view the change is as marked. The cost of Hamp- 

 shire Hall and Park was nearly $4000, but it has all been paid. The 

 fund has been increased nearly $1800 making it not far from $5500. 

 One hundred and thirty new life members have been obtained. The 

 income of the permanent fund, which in 1859 was $294, has this year 

 increased to $780, or much more than doubled. In 1859, premiums 

 were paid to the amount of $256; this year, $850 were offered in 

 pi*emiums and more than $500 paid. 



No unfavorable results have been caused by the new system on 

 the morals of the members, or of the community. Notwithstanding 

 the great crowd which assembled on our grounds at the annual fair, 

 order, sobriety and decorum were striking features of the occasion. 

 Less reveling, confusion and disturbance were witnessed than are 

 usual at large gatherings. In view of these results the members of 

 the Society have abundant cause for congratulation and for encour- 

 agement in the future. Let them but be faithful and their exhibi- 

 tions will henceforth be worthy of old Hampshire county and of the 

 noble objects of their organization. 



