32 



RAW- SILK. 



(!>;) to a certain extent, mulberry plantations on our 

 3engar accouut, which, should the experiment answer 



unei8i2. the proposed end, might, perhaps, in succeeding 

 seasons be extended, so as to render the public 

 investment, in a considerable degree, independent 

 of other sources of supply. A measure of this 

 nature, while it might operate as a check upon an 

 unsuitable advance in the price of cocoons and 

 ascertain their real cost, would afford facilities for 

 introducing various improvements as to the fibre 

 of the silk, and which there exists little doubt may 

 be successfully applied through the medium of its 

 culture. Conformably with these considerations, 

 we are induced to direct that an experiment of 

 this kind may be made on a moderate scale. In 

 conducting it, we rely that the Board of Trade 

 will avail themselves of every expedient and sug- 

 gestion, which their own acquaintance with the 

 subject, or the practical knowledge of the officers 

 under their department, can furnish, that may 

 appear calculated to accomplish the important 

 purpose of the undertaking. The different species 

 of worms and mulberries will, of course, engage 

 their attention : amono; which we desire that the 

 China insect and plant may receive particular 

 consideration. 



