i v 



in the island a gentleman who has seven years' experience . as a tobacco 

 cultivator in Sumatra, and I propose to utilise his services. In this matter 

 Ave are in the same position as was Jamaica, where tobacco grows freely, 

 but the quality was not equal to that of Cuba. However, the Botanic Depart- 

 ment was not to be beaten, and I learned from a letter written by the Director 

 of Botanic Gardens that at last they had produced tobacco worth 6.s. to 7s. 

 per lb. in the market. We must do the same. At least if we cannot command 

 success, let us do more : deserve it. 



I must apologise for the length of my statement, but 1 cannot conclude 

 without expressing my warmest acknowledgement to our able and energetic 

 Secretary, Mr. Denham, who has worked so unremittingly in the interests of the 

 Society since its formation, and to the many gentlemen who have read valuable 

 papers at our monthly Board meetings are due the grateful thanks of the Society. 



While the Government is ready and willing to assist us by every means 

 in its power, it must not be forgotten that the Ceylon Agricultural Society is 

 a non-official body dependent for success upon the confidence and co-operation 

 of the people. May that confidence continue and co-operation .produce in the 

 future a steady increase in the comfort, the happiness, and prosperity of the people 

 of Ceylon. 



