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But while we rejoice in the priceless blessings with which we are here 

 surrounded, while we cheerfully acknowledge our obligations to the good 

 government under which we live, and would hold ourselves ready to sacri- 

 fice all that is most dear on the altar of her liberties, let us not for"-et the 

 great cause we are banded together to promote, and upon which must ever 

 rest the strength and permanency of our Republic. 



Especially do I rejoice in the evidence this day manifested by the good 

 people of Norfolk County for the support and perpetuation of our own As- 

 sociation. " The power of association," said ]Mr. Webster, at our first anni- 

 versary, " is the great practical feature of our age." 



Yes, Ladies and Gentlemen, it is upon associations like our own, in other 

 departments of life, upon the combination of men coming together for 

 friendly intercourse, we must look in the future, as in the past, for the de- 

 velopment of the happiness and perfection of the human race. 



Let us then foster and support our own Institution with all the means in 

 our power, and come up from year to year with the products of industry 

 and art, and unite our congratulations and rejoicings in the celebration of 

 this, nature's great holiday. Let us, also, take courage in the hope that, 

 sooner or later, war must wash his bloody hand and peace once more bless 

 our beloved land. God grant that it may come soon, and that the influences 

 of our blessed institutions may unite the hearts of the people in kind and 

 social ties, and thus promote the union and prosperity of our bleeding 

 country. 



The orator of the day, Hon. Benjamin F. Thomas, was intro- 

 duced and then dehvered the excellent and able Address which ac- 

 companies this Report. It was listened to with marked attention, 

 and received frequent expressions of applause from the entire 

 audience. 



Next came the following Poem, by Francis P. Denny, of Brook 

 line, which was delivered Avithout notes, and was replete with 

 ability, ease and elegance, and gave great satisfaction. 



POEM. 



• 



Most worthy sires, ye of gentle brow. 

 Farmers of Norfolk, brethren of the plough ; 

 To-day we meet to view with critic's eye 

 The various products that our farms supph'. 

 We 've seen such poultry and such porky swine ; 

 Bewitching mutton, dressed in wool so fine ; 

 Such beastly bullocks and such creamy cows, 

 Fresh from rich meadows and a clover browse ; 

 Such lordly horses, such vivacious mares, 

 I fear at farming some would put on airs. 

 Repel the plough-chains with a haughty snort, 

 Talk loud of trotting, stock, and speed, and sport ; 

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