398 TRANSACTIONS OF THE 



half, and after deyoting half a centmy to horticultural pursuits, 

 I ask of my countrymen no other boon than to award me the 

 claim of its introduction. As it will succeed also in every part 

 of our southern and western states, and can be grown at so small 

 an expense it must become the principal food of the slave popu- 

 lation, and its combination of azote will render the use of meat 

 unnecessary as in China, and thereby greatly reduce the cost of 

 their support. 



It is a matter of interest that we have here a solution to two 

 enigmas which have long been inexplicable to statisticians and 

 economists. Firstly, that this vertical root, by its small lateral 

 extension and consequently immense product together with its 

 remarkable nutritive qualities, constitutes the alimentary basis of 

 the 300,000,000 souls comprised within the limits of the Chinese 

 Empire. Secondly, that the azote so essential to the formation 

 of muscular fibre, and in the possession of which this root is 

 unique, reveals to us the reason why Chinese laborers ai-e 

 vigorous and healthy without the use of meat. 



This latter consideration, derived from analysis, forces upon 

 us the conviction that this esculent is destined to occupy in other 

 countries the same position which it does in China, — that it will 

 usurp a portion of the present consumption of wheat and Indian 

 corn, and may by its cheapness affect the price of meat. 



As a summary of its properties, we have 1. Its agreeable and 

 highly nutricious quality. 2. Its abundant product. 3. Its easy 

 and cheap culture. 4. Its perfect hardihood and capability of 

 being preserved dry and perfect above a year, free from sprouting 

 or decay. 



It would be difficult indeed for man to conceive of or demand 

 a more perfect boon from his Creator. 



WM. R. PRINCE. 



Flushing, JVew-York^ 1857. 



Subjects for next meeting " Liquid manure, why sometimes 

 preferable," and "Fence posts." 



The Club then adjourned. 



H. MEIGS, Secretary. 



JV/arc/i 17, 1857. 

 Present — Hon. Robert Swift Livingston, Mr. Lawton of 

 New Rochelle, Solon Robinson, Dr. Peck of Brooklyn, a. lady, 

 President Pell, Prof. Youman, Richard Strazmikii of Hungary, 

 (introduced by Prof. Youman,) Mr. Jenny of the Tribune, Dr. 

 Smith of the Times, Mr. Van Epps, Mr. Darling, Mr. D , 



