24 
ELEMENTS OF AGRICULTURE. 
MORAL REFLECTIONS. 
\V*e have seen, in the lessons of the second chapter, the 
different parts of which a plant is composed — the root, 
stem, leaves, fruit, etc. If we consider the organization 
of plants, the structure of their parts, their astonishing va¬ 
riety, from the most humble herb to the majestic tree; if 
we consider their utility, and the benefits they confer upun 
man and the whole animal race, we will discover every¬ 
where the most marvellous order, and the hand of Infinite 
Wisdom. W e behold a seed planted in the earth, put forth 
roots, a stem bearing buds, branches, leaves, flowers, and 
fruits, in which are enveloped the germs of new plants. 
If, of all the wondrous works of the Creator, we were to 
see hut this, it would be sufficient to convince us of his 
power and his infinite bounty. It is for us, and as it were 
without our concurrence, that nature, or rather a benefi¬ 
cent God, acts upon this earth. It is for man that the 
fields, gardens, and forests, abound in blessings that would 
be lost did he not make use of them. Let us not be insen¬ 
sible to so much kindness; but let us render thanks to Him 
who bestows so much and such constant care on our ex¬ 
istence, and who watches over our welfare with such 
sleepless solicitude. 
