402 ON THE CULTIVATION OF SILK IN TASMANIA. 



Attacus Cynthia, requires scarcely any tending, and that the leaves can be 

 used at least two years earlier than those of the mulberry. 



An interesting discussion ensued on some of the important topics 

 treated of in Mr. Stutzer's paper. 



Mr. Abbott, junr., stated that the Ailantlius grew and flourished 

 vigorously in that climate. Leaves could be taken from it in the course 

 of two or three years, and on the whole it was a very hardy and prolific 

 plant. Even the white mulberry did well, and was very easily propa- 

 gated. 



Mr. Ewing remarked after what they had just heard he had no doubt 

 that the growth of silk would eventually be established in Tasmania, 

 and it was evident that the introduction of an article which was likely 

 to become one of great importance as an export, would be due entirely 

 to the indomitable energy and zeal of Mr. Stutzer. 



Mr. Stutzer observed that he spoke strongly on the importance of 

 introducing the silkworm because he felt strongly on the subject. At 

 the same time he did not mean to say it would pay a capitalist to hire 

 expensive labour for preparing ground, planting trees, feeding the 

 worm, and attending to the various operations required in the process 

 of silk-culture. If, however, a knowledge of this very easy and simple 

 process could be diffused throughout the colony, as was the case in other 

 countries, and if at the proper season the odd half hours of a few weeks, 

 which would otherwise probably be wasted, were devoted to the silk- 

 worm, the result would necessarily be the production of an article of 

 export not far inferior in value to the oil which is shipped from our 

 ports. Influenced as we are by English experience and prejudice, we 

 are apt to look upon the silk-worm as a sort of toy. But this should 

 not be, and when we consider that Tasmania is admirably adapted for 

 the production of an article, the supply of which from the shores of 

 the Mediterranean alone surpasses in value that of all the gold of the 

 Australias, it is surely incumbent upon us to recognise its great eco- 

 nomic importance, and to take action in the matter. Mr. Stutzer re- 

 marked that he had still on hand a considerable supply of the finest 

 seed of the white mulberry which he had received direct from Italy, 

 and that he would be very happy to furnish applicants for it with such 

 quantities as he could spare. 



