iv Preface, 



ous view to the discovery of the philosopher's stone, or other 

 dreams of alchymists to achieve the transmutation of metals, 

 have originated some of the most important facts, now known 

 and practised upon. No small portion of agricultural improve- 

 ment now flourishes under the discoveries of men, deemed, 

 bv prejudice, equally wild and visionary. This should therefore 

 warn practical farmers against the ruinous foes to their own 

 prosperity, — ^the incredulity and prejudice with which they 

 receive (if they take the trouble to read them) -written com- 

 miinications : and those more especially, which contain che- 

 mical and philosophical principles, applied to the art of prac- 

 tical husbandr)- ; from which agriculture derives most essen- 

 tial advantages. 



Having, with the most affectionate attachment, addressed 

 ourselves to practical farmers ; we take the liberty, most re- 

 spectfully, to say a few words, to those of our fellow-citizens 

 who ai-e not immediately employed in husbandry ; while they 

 prosper on the produce of the toils and anxieties of husband- 

 men. They celebrate and enjoy in tlieir feasts, v/ith great 

 ardour and approbation, the blessings of agriculture ; and 

 place it in alphabetical order, as it is in fact, as the first of 

 arts. But here ends their zeal. Not through defect of patriot- 

 ism, but through want of conviction, that more than their good 

 wishes are required. Yet agriculturists are thankful for this 

 testimony in their praise ; and gratified by the libations plente- 

 ously poured out in honour of their art. While commerce, 

 which is but its hand-maid, receives highly profitable, though 

 not always sufficient, attentions, (and so it ought, as its interests 

 and those of husbandr^^are indissolubly united) agriculture, 

 its foundation, is left to find its own auxiliaries and security ; 

 and must, unassisted, take its chance for progress and prospe- 

 rity. Legislative attention is scantily afforded ; and private 

 aid is little seen, or felt. If a few zealous individuals step 

 forward, to stimulate and advance its interests, they are left to 

 consume their zeal by its own efforts. These are slow in their 



