101 



them that the mode I have practised would effectually 

 auswer the purpose, if extensively adopted and with 

 spirit. 



When I first published my sentiments on this subject 

 my own conviction was complete ; and it was not my 

 fault that the important topic was not further pressed on 

 thq Public, for the attempt was made and stopped in its 

 progress. 



I occasionally brought fomard the subject in the cir- 

 culating agricultural publications; but finding it not taken 

 up, I began to consider who were the persons to begin, 

 that I might endeavour to rouse them into action. The 

 proprietors of the estates studded with these disgraceful 

 Vact^ and patches, instantly occurred to me : these were the 

 persons interested, as the reversion when leases expired 

 was theirs. They possessed the means of assisting, and 

 bad power to enforce; but the landlords through the 

 United Empire were so unconnected a body, that I knew 

 not how to apply to them with any prospect of attaining- 

 attention. I found I must address myself to a particular 

 proprietor, and, could I find great extent of territory ac- 

 companied with public spirit and liberality in the pro- 

 prietor, I might possibly rous.e exertion sufficient to set an 

 example that would be followed. 



In my own country I could not hesitate. The Corpora- 

 tions OF THE City of London, I have no doubt, are the 

 greatest landed proprietors in Ireland, possessing nearly 

 the whole of the County of Derry. Other circumstances 

 determined my selection. The public spirit and liberality 

 of the Corporations were to the Gentlemen (of that country) 

 matter of great notoriety ; always ready to afford ample as- 

 sistance on every public occasion, and only requiring to be 

 called upon. I know their character was well draT^.-n by the 

 poet ; 



