MR. XICHOLLS ON FLAX CULTURE. 



313 



I cannot therefore conceal my gratification at being informed 

 a few days since, by Mr. Walter T. Jones of Cefu Reig, 

 Merionethshire, that he intended to have my work translated 

 into the Welsh language immediately ; an undertaking 

 which, aided by the patriotic exertions of Mr, Purchas of 

 Pilstone, will open a new agricultural era to that neglected 

 principality. 



Ireland, also, will now learn the intrinsic value of the flax 

 crop. For, although competition may reduce the price of the 

 fibre, her farmers will receive an ample compensation through 

 the fattening properties of the seed. 



By the introduction of the improved system of managing 

 flax, Scotland would derive the greatest advantages ; of which 

 the rearers of cattle wdll be large participators. To them a 

 supply of native linseed must prove a benefit that cannot be 

 duly estimated. Because they will be enabled to retain at 

 least the condition of their cattle through the winter, and to 

 secure an abundance of eflicacious manure. I refer to my 

 letter on the Use of Linseed (p. 142). 



But wherever flax-culture is extensively introduced, there 

 the rates will be found lightest^ and the condition of the 

 people happiest. 



Travellers in Ireland never fail to notice the comparative 

 comfort of the poor in those districts where flax is cultivated 

 and where it is not. 



George NichoUs, Esq., one of the Poor Law Commis- 

 sioners, in his very useful book entitled ^ The Farmer,' 

 says, Can we doubt that what has thus been done in 

 Ireland ought also to be done in England? The soil 

 and the climate are at least as favourable for the growth 

 of flax here as they are there, or as they are in either 

 HoUand or Belgium. Instructors may readily be obtained 

 from either of these countries, or persons might be sent from 

 hence to leam the various processes, and on their return they 

 might impart instruction to others. The result w^ould, I am 

 confident, amply repay the outlay by the benefits it icould confer, 

 and the art, once acquired, would not be in danger of being 

 lost. * * * * X have seen flax growing on mere bog in 



