THE SILK WORM. 71 



erate, except as a consequence of neglect, or the long 

 propagation of those of a diminutive size. 



Though new varieties of the Silk Worm may not 

 be obtainable, by selecting the largest and best co- 

 coons for seed ; yet it is believed the same variety 

 may be improved in size and vigor and that, in this 

 respect, it will be an object of importance with the 

 culturist to make a careful and judicious selection. 



Having carried the culturist through the various 

 processes of making silk, from sowing the seed of the 

 Mulberry, to the making of cocoons; it is believed, if 

 the directions given, are carefully followed, he will 

 meet with no insurmountable obstacle in the prosecu- 

 tion of this most profitable branch of rural economy. 

 There are no more difficulties to be encountered in 

 the cultivation of the Mulberry, than in the ordinary 

 crops of corn or potatoes ; and a farmer's wife and 

 daughters may rear a family of Silk Worms with about 

 the same ease and more certainty of success, then they 

 do the young of their favorite geese and turkeys. 



In giving directions, however, for the successful 

 prosecution of silk growing, they must, from the na- 

 ture of the subject, be general. It would be impossi- 

 ble to anticipate every thing that may take place in 

 the various processes conducted by the most skilful 

 and judicious culturist. Cases unprovided for and ques- 

 tions unanswered may, and doubtless will, present 

 themselves in the course of operations but like all 

 other cases and questions on practical subjects, they 

 must be refered to the decisions of sound judgment 

 and discretion ; and these, with the aid of a little ex- 

 perience, will almost invaribly be found correct. 



The next process is to reel the silk from the co- 

 coon in a suitable manner for the manufacturer, for in 



