fCCt. I. THE COUNTY OF FIFE. 367 



CHAPTER XVII. 



Miscellaneous Observations. 



SECTION I. 



AGRICULTURAL SOCIETIES. 



1 HERE are two Societies of this kind in Fife ; 

 one called the FIFE FARMING SOCIETY, and the 

 other, the INVERKEITHING CLUB. The former 

 was instituted about six years ago, and at pre- 

 sent consists of nearly 200 members. The prin- 

 cipal objects aimed at by this institution, are, a 

 mutual communication of discoveries and im- 

 provements in husbandry ; common protection 

 against thieves and depredators who shall un- 

 justly invade their property ; and raising a joint 

 stock or capital for the benefit of their widows 

 and children, and of members reduced to distress 

 or indigence. Members pay one guinea at their 

 entry, and half a guinea yearly. None are ad- 

 mitted but men of good character ; and such 

 members, as shall be found guilty of crimes and 

 misdemeanors punishable by the laws of the 

 land, are liable to expulsion, and a total depri- 

 vation of all benefit from the Society's funds. 

 No member can draw any thing from the fund 

 till it amount to 500 1. ; neither can any one 



