8 



BICEBTART-l RIPOET. 



our association, from which I have quoted, or to the 

 extent that we have formerly done. 



Considering the subject, as I do, one of real import- 

 ance, and having a bearing directly upon one of the 

 primary objects of the society, which should be con- 

 stantly kept in view, I would respectfully suggest, if 

 no better plan has been found, the offer of several 

 premiums, not exceeding in amount $25.00 for the best 

 reports, which must be carefully written, should contain 

 the statements of the competitors, if any are offered, 

 and be furnished to the Secretary on or before the 

 25th of October, except those referring to late crops, 

 which must be furnished on or before the 15th of 

 November. 



My hope is that such an offer would induce some 

 Committees to prepare reports creditable to themselves 

 and worthy of their subjects, which would be read with 

 interest and profit by the members and friends of the 

 society, and would become a part of its permanent 

 literature, tending to elevate its character and extend 

 its usefulness, while the effort and labor on the part of 

 such Committees would be of great advantage to them- 

 selves by inciting to more careful observations and 

 experiments, to deeper study, and to more accurate 

 thought. 



Twelve new members have joined the society during 

 the year, making the total number at present 568. 

 The funds of the society have also increased by the 

 amount of $119.67, notwithstanding the decreased 

 income from several sources and the increased expen- 

 ditures in several directions. 



