140 



large variety of grasses, and it would be well to encourage 

 experiments with them, after their characteristics have been 

 studied. This can be done in ex-Secretary Chas. L. Flint's 

 book on " Grasses and Forage Plants." 



The annual social meetings that accompany farmers' clubs 

 cannot be too highly praised for the good they can do and the 

 pleasantness they can provoke. Who of us does not know 

 that many a time a good laugh or a friendly chat has dispelled 

 a fit of the blues, or the beginning of some other more real 

 trouble. A good laugh sometimes cures quicker than the best 

 medicine. 



The values to local clubs and associations of delegates from 

 our society, who are public speakers, is considerable, and their 

 sending can be commended on this score also. 



I have suggested subjects that would prove of general inter- 

 est, some of which are to be discussed at the Farmers' meet- 

 ings the coming winter. A list of the subjects to be discussed 

 this season by the Andover Farmer's Club is included later on, 

 and a few members are assigned the duty of stating the dis- 

 cussion for each evening, well in advance, so tltat they can 

 prepare themselves beforehand, and after the regular speakers 

 have concluded their remarks, the. members are invited to 

 speak upon the subject, and a limited length of time is allowed 

 to each, thus giving time to hear a good variety of opinions 

 and experiences. 



I also notice that it is generally the custom for the clubs to 

 devote one evening during a season to a social entertainment ; 

 also that some clubs devote one or two evenings to conversa- 

 tions upon any subjects that may previously be suggested, or 

 suggest themselves at the time of meeting. 



I liave written letters to the Presidents of all Farmers' 

 Clubs and Fruit Growers' Associations that I knew of in the 

 County, and have incorporated in this report the replies which 

 I have received, and which I feel sure must prove valuable, 

 interesting and instructive. I am indebted to the writers for 



