27 



In reviewing the several lists of contributions, a gradual change is 

 perceptible by the introduction of new and the disappearance of old 

 familiar species and varieties. The dahlia, once so conspicuous and 

 exciting so much interest among cultivators, who numbered the vari- 

 eties by hundreds, no longer holds that sway in the floral world. The 

 plums, among our fruits, are scarcely seen, some twenty-five years 

 since so fine and luscious in flavor, so attractive in appearance and in 

 great variety. 



The opening of communication with China and Japan have intro- 

 duced, mainly through Mr. Fortune, the botanist', many beautiful 

 shrubs and other plants, which add largely to the attractions of our 

 gardens and lawns. An interesting and very valuable paper could be 

 written on this subject, giving an account of the garden and its flow- 

 ers during the first years of the exhibitions, and contrasting the same 

 with those of the present day. 



Having briefly noticed a few incidents in the history of horticul- 

 ture in Salem, a theme so prolific in interesting materials, I now" in- 

 troduce to you our associate member, Mr. CHARLES H. HIGBEE, who 

 will give some account of the 'experiments of Mr. Edward S. Rogers 

 of this city, in the hybridization of the grape, which have resulted in 

 the introduction of several choice and fine new varieties. It is a 

 cause, of gratulation that we have among us those who are now ac- 

 tively engaged in advancing this science, which in the past has en- 

 rolled so many names distinguished for their zeal, learning and gen- 

 eral culture. 



The remainder of the even'ng was occupied in the reading of an 

 interesting paper by Mr. CHARLES H. HIGBEE, on the "Hybridization 

 of Grapes," referring especially to the method adopted by Mr. Edward 

 S. Rogers of Salem. (See an abstract of this paper on page 17.) 



A discussion followed the reading of this paper, which was partici- 

 pated in by several members. 



QUARTERLY MEETING, WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY, 9, 1870. 



The PRESIDENT in the chair. Records*of preceding meeting read. 



Nathaniel Ropes of Cincinnati, and Frank A. Fielden of Salem, 

 were elected members. 



The Secretary mentioned that Mr. Rantoul had given a favorable 

 answer to the request of the Institute to read the memoir of the late 

 Charles Davis, provided that he could have sufficient time to prepare 

 the same. 



