[ XV ] 



The following was published, with the foregoing Mtera- 

 tion oj the iOth Law of the Society. 



Address of the Society to their Fellow Citizens, 



THE Philadelphia Society for promoting Agriculture 

 have now nearly completed six years, since their revival from 

 a state of inactivity into which they had fallen. The causes, 

 which produced their former torpor, are not entirely remo- 

 ved. A zeal for the objects of their association, among the 

 inhabitants of this opulent, commercial, and manufacturing 

 city, has not appeared in the extent expected. There exists 

 among the citizens a mistaken opinion, that it is necessary 

 for every member of our society to be an agriculturalist, 

 either in practice or theory. Moderate contribution of either 

 money or time, and patronage afforded to the means of en- 

 creasing agricultural knowledge and practice, are the primary 

 requisites. These are within the power of most citizens, 

 whatever may be their occupations. The citizens of Phila- 

 delphia, are exceeded by those of no other part of the Uni- 

 ted States, in talents and capacity to promote the prosperity 

 of their country by encouragements to agriculture ; — the 

 foundation upon which the public happiness, comforts and 

 support are erected. There is no part of the United States, 

 in which such talents and capacity, can be more effectually 

 and beneficially employed, for the mutual prosperity of both 

 city and country. We have neither the presumption nor the 

 inclination to assume the office of censors ; nor do we deem 

 ourselves entitled to lead the public opinion ; nor to mention 

 any thing in a style, either of couiplaint or solicitation. Our 

 association is voluntary, our pursuits neither interested nor 

 selfish, and our efforts zealous, but, from necessity, limited 

 and inadequate. More efficient talents, and greater numbers 



