No. 98.] . 3 
tion of the work contemplated was had, reported a plan in December, 
1880; but the arguments and reasons that by slow processes had 
brought the committee to conclusions had again to be considered by 
the full board, thus necessitating delay that full accord might follow 
reflection. In February, 1881, satisfactory agreement was had, the 
plan of work embracing the purchase of a suitable farm and its equip- 
ment with all the appliances for careful field experiments, together 
with scientific investigation, and the employment of a capable director 
with a staff of assistants to take immediate charge of the work. 
As the preliminary step, exceedingly important in all its bearings, 
the selection of a farm became at once a matter of deep concern. Pro- 
posals were invited and received from twenty-two counties of the State, 
but choice at last designated a very desirable farm near Geneva, ad- 
-mirably located, with buildings well suited to the purposes in view, 
soil and accessories well adapted to the objects sought, and the price so 
low that it scarcely covered cost of structures ready for the uses of the 
station. Meantime, a supposed defect in the law establishing the Hx- 
periment Station became to the Comptroller an insuperable barrier to 
further progress, for, as alleged, the appropriation was in violation of 
the Constitution, and could not, therefore, be available. Although 
this view was controverted by the Attorney-General in a written opin- 
ion, it was deemed advisable to avoid all controversy, if possible, and 
a new bill was accordingly prepared to meet the objections urged, and 
* in due course became a law, designated as chapter 702, passed August 
15, 1881, under which the action already reported, which resulted in 
the selection of a farm, was had, and the title of the farm passed to the 
State in February, 1882. For full account of the work performed, 
implements, machinery, apparatus, animals and equipments, together 
with cost and manner of service, we beg leave respectfully to submit 
the accompanying reports of Robert J. Swan, Treasurer, and E. Lewis 
Sturtevant, Director, all of which have had careful consideration and 
approval by the Board of Control. 
ROBT. J. SWAN, 
President of the Board of Control. 
N. M. Curtis, 
Secretary Board of Control. 
