TEMPERANCE AND THE VINE. 95 



cheap rate will, as there is abundant proof in the wine dis- 

 tricts of Europe. It is for this reason, as well as because we 

 look upon it as a source of national wealth, that we regard 

 the successful labors of such men as Mr. LONGWORTH, in in- 

 troducing and perfecting the wine culture, as worthy of the 

 highest public gratitude." 



Amherstburg, Canada West, March 12, 1852. 

 R. BUCHANAN, Esq. : 



DEAR SIR, I presented your letter to Mr. JAMES COUSINS, 

 the person on whose lands the vines and cuttings were planted, 

 distant some two miles from here. 



Mr. C. says, they have so far, proved a failure owing to the 

 extraordinarily dry season in which they were planted. In 

 fact, all the cuttings died, and also a great part of the vines ; 

 but there are some living, and doing well. 



He is of opinion, that the grape might be cultivated here to 

 great advantage, with the exception of the foreign kinds, 

 which generally mildew. The fruit of the Isabella and 

 Catawba appears to ripen very well in this section of the 

 country. The soil is clay. 



The winters are generally moderate, but the present one 

 appears to be the exception to the rule, for the thermometer 

 has stood as low as 17 below zero. If, therefore, the vines 

 are not affected by this great degree of cold, we may safely 

 say this part of the country would be well adapted to grape 

 culture. 



The wild grape grows abundantly here (small black fruit), 

 and I have tasted wine made from their juice, far superior to 

 any Port we can get here. 



I have the honor to be, Dear Sir, 



Your obedient, humble servant, 



A. H. WAGNER, 



9 



