No. 216.] 781 



judicious meditation constantly upon the marvellous treasures of na- 

 ture, beholding as we do, every where, such manifest proofs of the 

 grandeur and goodness of God! In the midst of a numerous and 

 industrious family, the farmer above all men, can enjoy serene and 

 happy days. But sometimes ignorant of his own happiness, we see 

 him envy the inhabitants of the cities, whose lives are usually but 

 one series of agitation and of bitterness. 



In civilized countries, agriculture is making an immense progress, 

 the wealthy and wise (o rico e o sabia) no longer despise this first of 

 the arts. Noble schools for teaching are already founded, in which 

 the theory and practice of it are learned together. Scientific socie- 

 ties are occupied, ardently, in protecting its progress and in giving 

 premiums for agricultural excellence. 



Industry, the prime mover, the inexhaustible fountain of public 

 riches, is the grand object of this society. 



The discussions in our society, — all sensible men know the bene- 

 ficial results of discussion, in the elucidation of questions, in modera- 

 ting exaggerated opinions, in the correction of serious errors, and in 

 the excitement to a solid study of subjects. 



Mr. Wakeman said he was gratified to have it in his power, to 

 inform the club that a new monthly Agricultural periodical has been 

 issued by Mr. C. N. Bement, of Albany, a gentleman of intelligence, 

 candor, accuracy, and with all a practical farmer and horticulturist. 

 We like such editors, farmers will have confidence in their writings, 

 as they will not mislead them. One of the great impediments to 

 knowledge among farmers, has been the impracticable nonsense 

 sent out by theorists, who, incapable of writing themselves, or of 

 selecting, for want of experience, and when resorted to as a guide, 

 the result has been disappointment and ridicule, ridicule that has des- 

 troyed the confidence of thousands in book knowledge! and arrested 

 the progress of agricultural improvement. Mr. Bement's work is en- 

 titled American Journal of Agriculture and Science. The print is 

 large, on good white paper, and the price but two dollars per an- 

 num. 



Mr. Wakeman also laid on the table a pamphlet, The Republican 

 Institute, issued by the Institute, founded by the late Stephen Van 

 Rensselaer. 



