scarlet, to dazzle and perplex the eye, and still the tree might dive and bear 
Jruit. And this should be an especial cause of thankfulness in us, that God 
has so clothed the elements of growth and vegetation about us, for our 
life, our comfort and enjoyment, that He has added beauty—beauty, an ele- 
ment which is not necessary to their existence. 
An orchard, from its beauty in the bloom, its growing at maturity, its 
fruit on the tree, on the table, in the well-kept cellar, is an element of at- 
tractiveness to home. It gives a charm to the dear delights that cluster 
around the sunny circle of home. When the boy, grown to be a man, 
leaves the scenes of his youth, his thoughts will recur with a thrill of pleasure 
to the favorite tree in the orchard, when the burssels carpet, the luxurious 
divans of the parlor, the ornaments of the sitting room, the downy bed of 
the chamber are forgotten. Who knows but what the much-loved apple 
tree, planted by a kind father’s hand, cultivated with an indulgent father’s 
care, its fruit dispensed with prodigality by a patient mother’s hand, with 
a-loving mother’s smile—who knows but that a thought of such a time and 
scene, may restrain the son from evil, guide him to virtue and lead him to 
usefulness and honor. And should the son be forgetful of the lessons of home, 
and wander away in the career of vice and crime, who knows but what the 
orchard, with its fragrant blossoms, its luscious fruit, its cooling shade, the 
happy circle with its fruit and its smiles and its love, of which he was once 
amember, may recall him from his error, and reclaim him to virtue? As 
long as the recollection of the orchard remains—as long as he remembers 
its associations—the man is safe. He will love his home; he will cherish 
its memories ; he will do it honor. 
I can but join in the exhortation of Mr. Beebee, urging upon all the im- 
portance of planting fruit trees. I add to this, plant intelligently. Select 
the proper spot for the orchard ; prepare the ground ; sclect trees suited to 
locality ; and cultivate with skill. Until a better plan, based upon exper- 
ence and observation, is discovered, adopt the views and follow the practice 
of Mr. Beebee. He is well known as a gentleman of intelligence and integ- 
tity. He would not advise or recommend a course while doubting its cor- 
rectness. He would give no counsel but what would add to the profit and 
pleasure of the people. ‘ 
The results of his work are before us. We have seen his fruits ; we have 
seen his orchards, as well as those of other successful fruit-growers in Iowa. 
Secing, let us believe; and believing, let us act, 
J. M. SHAFFER. 
