No. 244.J 153 



account of the expense and profit of the farm as it stands. The time 

 is appropriately divided between the labor of the fields, garden, sta- 

 bles and workshops, and the study room ; the alternating of which 

 renders the character of our course of instruction what has very just- 

 ly been denominated spide of life. The literary course consists 

 of a thorough academic course, with highest branches of mathe- 

 matics, surveying and engineering. The natural sciences with direct 

 application to agriculture and five modern languages. In pursuing 

 the sciences, the students are each required to lecture in turn before 

 the class and the public ; and those listening, are required to make 

 rigid criticisms on the matter of the lecture, (which must be as far as 

 practical in original language, as Ihey are instructed to avoid a repe- 

 tition of the language of the author they consult,) also on the man- 

 ' ner and style of the speaker. This course not only insures a thorough 

 understanding of the subject they are pursuing, but gives them the 

 habit of expressing their ideas with ease and fluency, and effectually 

 removes all embarrassment. They all board in the family of the 

 principal, as also do the professor and tutors. 



There are connected with the institute upwards of seventy acres of 

 beautiful land, with spacious and commodious buildings of every des- 

 cription needed. 



Various experiments in tillage, seeding, manuring, feeding and 

 breeding the domestic animals, in horticulture, floriculture, &c. &c., 

 iare made for the benefit of the class. A public examination is held 

 in both departments at the close of each term. 



They have also the advantage to be derived from participating in 

 the discussion of all the most important subjects pertaining to the 

 management of the farm, at the meetings of the Mount Airy Farm- 

 ers' Club, in which they all take an active part, and preserve notes on 

 the discussions for reference. The site of the institute and its vicini- 

 ty, has so long been proverbial for health and the beauty of its sce- 

 nery that to essay upon its advantages in these respects would be 

 superfluous; suffice it to say, there are extensive ornamental grounds, 

 abounding with a great variety of exotic as well as choice indigenous 

 trees, shrubs and flowers, besides many choice green house plants. 

 The entire charge for board and tuition in the above named branches, 

 is but |200 payable semi-annually in advance. 



Truly your ob't servanj, 



JOHN WILKINSON. 



