PROCEEDINGS OF THE HORTICULTURAL ASSOCIATION. 723 



branch of horticulture, as those of American origin. And it is a singular 

 fact, that but few of these arc adapted in their habits to dwarfing- so as to 

 succeed on the quince. 



While much has been accomplished by the laboi's of these and other pear 

 culturists, very much still remains to be done. For nearly twenty years we 

 have been engrossed with the study while making our observations in the 

 orchard, but are obliged to confess that we seem to ourselves to be as yet 

 in the outer portals of the temple, and with the dim light of a taper have 

 boon groping after knowledge, using as our guide for the most part, the 

 facts accunuilated by the experience of others. But when the great prin- 

 ciples underlying this science shall be clearly comprehended, and the laws 

 that govern each operation shall be clearly conceived, as definite and fixed, 

 we sliall be ^permitted to enter the inner recesses and comprehend most 

 perfectly, the now mysterious operations of nature under the teachings of 

 a wiser philosophy and the perfect light of truth. 



On motion of Mr. Wm. S. Carpenter, the thanks of the Association were 

 presented to Dr. Ward for the interesting and instructive lecture, and a 

 copj' was requested for publication. 



The meeting adjourned to April 18, 1865, but in consequence of the 

 national calamity, caused by the death of President Lincoln, no meeting 

 was held during the month. 



John W. Chambers, Secretary. 



