15 



I iiGcd only say, that between implements and 

 machines constructed on tlie most ai)|)roved prin- 

 ciples of modern mechanics, and successful and 

 profitable farming, there is an intimate and indis- 

 soluble connection. Take only that important 

 and primitive symbol of husbandry, the plough, 

 and without going back to Egypt, or the ancient 

 Romans, compare, or rather contrast the imple- 

 ments that were in general use in Europe and on 

 this Continent less than fifty years ago, with 

 those of the present time, and you perceive at 

 once how much depends upon the employment of 

 siiCh implements as are in their form and con- 

 struction in accordance with the laws and well- 

 ascertained formulas of mechanical philosophy. 



Further : The farmer cultivates the soil for the 

 exclusive purpose, in the first instance, of rais- 

 ing crops ; in other words, such vegetable pro- 

 ductions as are best suited to soil, climate and 

 markets. He ascends from the dead mineral 

 earth to the living organized plant. A tiny seed 

 is deposited in the earth, and under the influence 

 of waimth and moisture germinates, assimilating 

 materials from both the air and soil in the pro- 

 gress of growth, and after passing through a won- 

 derful cycle of changes, reaches the condition of 

 a perfect plant, ripens its seed, and thus secures 



