PREFACE TO THE FIFTH EDITION, 



To my hind Countrymen and Readers. 



AVhen to my Immble country neighbours, 



I some time since address'd my labours, 



Solicitous their state to mend, 



And shew myself the poor man's friend — 



( For clearly every skilful eye 



Might several wants and errors spyj 



Deficiencies with evil fraug-ht — 



The sad result of mind untaught, 



And such as e'en a friend like me 



Might hope to c\ire, in some degree) 



When thus, I say, I tirst essayed 



To vrrita — to me a novel trade. 



And dared in public print appear, 



Tho' not, I own, without some fear ; 



I little thought my humble book 



Would travel far beyond this nook. 



Or that my lessons, widely spread, 



In other regions, would be read ; 



Still less did Martin Doyle's ambition 



E'er dream to see a fifth edition — 



Clear proof that when a subject's fit. 



Intention good may stand for wit ; 



And who employs an honest pen, 



In service of his Countr\'raen — 



Directing steadily his aim 



To usefulness, not idle fame, 



^Vill find that in their bosom reigns 



A kindness far o'erpays his pains : 



Then what more grateful can I do, 



Dear Countrjinen, for friends like you. 



Than pray you every year may see 



Increasing proofs of Industry ; 



And in your daily labours find 



Health, competence, and peace of mind — 



So here — I make my homely bow; 



God speed the Irish Farmer's plough. 



Martin Doyle. 



Bailyoilet/, Felncary, 1930. 



