The Canadian Horticulturist. 35 



the distribution of this valuable book will, we feel sure, serve to largely increase 

 the list of new members for 1891. 



One of the very practical subjects which was discussed at the meeting was 

 the manner m which express companies in Ontario handle our tender fruits 

 in transporting them to the various markets. This matter was first introduced 

 at the Summer Meeting, by Mr. T. H. Race, of Mitchell. Many complaints 

 were made by various members present, showing what great damage had been 

 done to their packages of choice fruit by careless handling in loading and 

 unloading, and in setting away on board the cars. It was thought that better 

 accommodation should be provided, and that more time should be given for the 

 careful loading and unloading of such perishable goods, especially considering 

 the very high price which these companies charge. The whole matter was 

 referred to a committee, who brought in the following report, which was adopted 

 by the Association : — 



That the Ontario Fruit Growers' Association, on behalf of the fruit growers and 

 shippers of this Province, hereby condemn the action of our express companies in their 

 system of handling, stowing and transferring their fruits from the points of loading to the 

 markets. That through their unnecessary rough handling and delays in transferring the 

 fruit, growers are constantly sustaining heavy damage, for which, at present, there seems 

 to be no reasonable remedy. We, therefore, hereby memorialize the Dominion Govern- 

 ment to enact such legislation in the premises as will relieve the fruit growers and 

 shippers by providing an enactment that will enable them to recover substantial damages 

 from such express companies, and that the companies be compelled to carry such fruits to 

 points of destination upon express train scheduled time. 



Another subject of practical importance to our fruit growers was the inspec- 

 tion of fruit. It was agreed by all present that it would be a great boon to fruit 

 growers in Ontario if there was some standard of excellence by which the various 

 fruits could be sold upon mentioning their grade. If some plan could be devised 

 by which buyers would be able to judge with confidence of the quality of the 

 fruit they were purchasing, the prices which they would offer would be much in 

 advance of those at present received by us, and we would find much more ready 

 markets for our fruits. This also was referred to a committee, whose report also 

 was adopted. Their report was as follows : — 



That we deem it in the best interests of the fruit growers, shippers and customers, as 

 well as the good name of our country, that a standard of excellence be established for such 

 fruits as are shipped in barrels and other close packages into the markets of our cities and 

 towns and for exportation to foreign countries, and that this Association memoiialize the 

 Dominion authorities to appoint an inspector for that purpose. 



There was an attempt made at the preparation of a district fruit list, showing 

 the fruit best adapted to each agricultural district, or division of such, in 

 our province. This, however, was very incomplete, and will be subject to very 

 considerable amendment before it is adopted. For instance, the Early Harvest 

 was given, as one reported by a large number of local growers, as among the 

 most profitable of summer apples (for their district). Now, it is evident to all 

 who have had experience with this apple that it is utterly worthless on account 

 of the scab. This renders it wholly unfit for market, and, of late, it is alsc 



