128 THE GRAPE. 
the consequence; but as to truly healthful action, it is 
Ra that we should be none the gainers. Perhaps 
this kind of eee may be thought a very vulgar way 
of explaining what might be shown in more ‘ddlicatas 
words; but if coarse, the true meaning is purposely exhi- 
bited, to show up the ridiculousness of curtailing nature. 
As stated above, the subject is a matter of circumstances, 
we have to do with a family of plants that would occupy 
a great volume of surface, yet we wish to have a large 
“aaa comparatively _— in a small space, and the 
can do is, not to weaken down natural energy 
more ae there is occasion for. Pruning, properly per- 
formed, and in the right season, is certainly of great ser- 
vice; we find it so practically, its good effects are every- 
tas to be seen when it is adopted; but so far and 
no further is it advisable. If proof be required of the 
injury that may be done by too close stoppixg, let any 
one try the experiment of pinching in closely the side 
shoots of a part of his vines, and leave the others several 
joints longer, and he will find at the end of the growing 
season that those which were left the longest are better 
ripened than the shorter ones, providing the light has had 
equal influence on both. If the vines are er 
apart than three feet, the distance will allow a shoot on 
each side of fifteen to eighteen inches, upon which there 
may be from seven to e'ght leaves; and allowing the 
fruit to be on the second or third joint, there will still 
remain four or five leaves above it, each of which will do 
