oe, 
gether and frequently wetted and subjected to the 
action of atmospheric air, they are speedily dissolv- 
ed and give out much gaseous matter. To prevent 
the escape of these soluble and volatile parts, two 
things are necessary: Ist, that the dung be collect- 
ed in a reservoir, of convenient size, walled and 
paved with stones; and 2d, that a layer of sand, or 
earth, be occasionally spread over the surface of 
the dung. The former will prevent filtration, and 
the latter retain the gaseous matter, so useful in ve- 
getation, and at the same time augment the quantity 
of manure. To prevent an excess of moisture, 
which always retards, and sometimes prevents de- 
composition altogether, the reservoir should be cov- 
ered. — . 
The application of manures, is a subject of more 
difficulty, and has given occasion to some disputa- 
tion. The controverted points are: 
_ Ist. Whether short, or long dung, or in other 
words, whether dung thoroughly rotted, or that 
which has but began to rot, is most advantageous? 
2d. Whether dung used superficially, or plough- 
ed deep into the ground, is most profitable ? 
3d. Whether extraneous matters admitted into 
the stercorary, are useful or otherwise ? 
4th. Whether stable manures are best applied, 
directly or indirectly, to wheat crops? 
5th. At what time manures are best applied? and, 
6th. in what quantity ! 
We shall discuss these points, separately and 
briefly—and, 
Ist. Which is to be preferred, long or short dung? 
