5°6 
well, and we may hope that firms that import and invent agricultural 
tools may exhibit many new and useful appliances at future agri- 
cultural shows. 
The introduction of papers and discussions at the various shows 
is another improvement which may produce the most valuable re- 
sults. These conferences in other parts of the world have been 
remarkably successful, and are now quite an important feature in 
all large meetings. This would necessitate the exhibitions being 
kept open longer than usual and add to a certain extent to the ex- 
penses but I think it would be w r ell worth it. The question of ex- 
pense is one of some importance, as it would undoubtedly vary in 
the different localities in which the show was held. The Govern- 
ment would probably be prepared to assist materially but local sub- 
scriptions and gate money are very variable in different places. In 
past show's in Singapore, for example, at times there would be a good 
surplus devoted to the next year’s show, at others a deficit but I 
think we may fairly hope that many interested in the development 
of agriculture w'ould send regular subscriptions to the shews even 
if they were personally unable to be present. Tn any case the Com- 
mittees wdll want the support and interest of the whole planting 
community and should they obtain that there is no reason why the 
agricultural exhibitions of the whole Peninsula should not rank with 
those of other Colonies. 
AGRICULTURAL SHOWS. 
Experience has proved that no one of the Settlements or Native 
States is equal to maintaining ad annual Agricultural Show or Ex- 
hibition on sufficiently comprehensive lines to be of great educa- 
tional value, and as healthy competition can only be induced by 
holding those Shows at regular intervals, the time and place being 
made known a considerable time in advance. My idea is that one 
o-ood Show might be held every year by combining forces and tak- 
ing in rotation one of the five principal towns in the Colony and 
Federated Malay States, viz. Singapore, Penang, Malacca, Taiping, 
(or Ipoh) and Kwala Lumpor. There is however no reason why 
other places in the Federated Malay States should not be included 
later if the local authorities are desirous, and whiling to guarantee 
a sufficient sum towards the expenses. 
The first step towards the carrying owt of this scheme is in my 
opinion the formation of an Agricultural Committee consisting of 
say three persons in each, of the places in which it is proposed to 
hold these show's. , , , TT - o 
This Committee should be nominated by H. E. 1 he Governor 
and be a standing one. In the years in which the meeting is not 
being held in the Settlement or State for which they are nominated 
the members of this Committee will act as Agents in disseminating 
information, prize lists, &c., and in collecting and forwarding ex- 
hibits to the Settlement or State in which the Show is being held, 
and if possible be present at the Show. The three in the Settle- 
