1868.] secretary's report. 27 



Others have referred in terms of eulogy to the civilian, the statesman, the 

 gentleman.* The proprieties of the occasion confine me to our own restricted 

 field. And even in that, it were needless to remind you of his ever active in- 

 terest in the culture and development of new varieties of flowers and fruit, or 

 of the zest with which he partook of them, commenting upon and analyzing 

 closely their nicest shades of flavor. Upon the removal of the library to this 

 hall you will remember how punctually he attended the meetings that were then 

 inaugurated, and the earnestness and freshness with which, at the advanced age 

 of eighty years, he enlivened your discussions. That interest was manifested 

 to the very last. He seldom failed to inquire what was displayed upon our 

 tables. He never evinced indifference to the growth and welfare of the Society. 

 In his later sickness, choice specimens, for which your secretary was so often 

 indebted to the kindness of those who will respect the intention and pardon the 

 poverty of these words, were a source of gratification alike to the eye and taste. 

 For, gentlemen. Flora and Pomona, at whose altars he had so long minis- 

 tered, and in whose honor he had done so much, in their turn ministered unto 

 him. When nature, wearied with the burden of years, flagged within him, they 

 soothed his fainting spirit — revived his declining frame. 



He was one of your original members. A steady friend and benefactor. 

 That society is indeed rich that can drop such names from its roll of living 

 associates without experiencing a sense of almost hopeless desolation. 

 All which is respectfully submitted. 



EDWARD W. LINCOLN, 



Secretary and Librarian. 

 Horticultural Hall, ' 



Worcester, Mass., Nov. 4th, A. D. 1868. 



*The late Governor Liacoln. 



