26 



to observe are too frequently very different 

 things. It is the facilities given to observation, 

 comparing one thing with another, and the draw- 

 ing of sound practical conclusions from a suffi- 

 cient number of well-observed facts, that give to 

 occasions like this their principal means of use- 

 fulness. The management of these shows, as 

 they increase in size and complexity, requires 

 continued modification, and is yet susceptible in 

 all instances of improvement. I observe that 

 you have adopted the plan of entering articles 

 some weeks previous to the holding of the show, 

 a practice which we in Canada (Ontario) have 

 pursued with much satisfaction for several years. 

 Now, we have only to take a step or two further; 

 so to limit the period for taking entries, and make 

 it absolute, that sufficient time may be afforded 

 for compiling a complete classified catalogue or 

 catalogues, and providing in the show-yard and 

 its buildings, " a place for every thing, and have 

 everything in its place." To this state of ad- 

 vancement most of i^lie great National Societies 

 of Europe have already brought their exhibitions, 

 and we on this side of the Atlantic would greatly 

 consult the convenience and information of visit- 

 ors, and materially enhance the interest and 

 increase the usefulness of our exhibitions by fol- 



