to the Hebridean sheep, a small breed, which weigh from four to five pounds per quarter when fat, and yield about one pound of wool of various colours. These small animals frequently carry four or five horns. This breed was imported into Scotland from Denmark at a very early period. There is now a race in Denmark which have four horns.] The national sheep of Hungary have, in both sexes, straight horns, from 12 to 15 inches long. The wool is five or six inches in length, and so coarse, that it is fit for nothing but blankets.

Iceland has two sorts of sheep, one large, the other small. Their wool is brown, and the inhabitants do not shear it, but pull it off--a most cruel operation. The Icelanders make great use of sheep's milk. These animals live all the year exposed to the severity of the weather, and their principal food in winter is the moss called Iceland moss, which

beautiful wool; those of Guadaloupe are celebrated |cess, the remedy which I make use of to kill the ants
for their form and fleece; those of Paular have their and other small insects, that take the substance from
head covered with wool, and their neck full of wrin-the leaves of the trees. If the trees are thus taken
kles; those of Infantado are born with coarse wool, care of, they will be thrifty the following year.
which afterwards becomes very fine, and those of
Negretti have a strong and robust body, with fine
wool. All these races are called merinoes, and were
formerly the travelling flocks of Spain; since the late
wars, they have become stationary. All the fine
races of sheep now in Europe were derived from the
merinoes of Spain.

HORTICULTURE.

(From the New York Farmer.)
PEACH TREES.

AMERICAN CASTOR OIL.

This very valuable medicine is made by expressing the oil from the bean of the plant "Palma Christi," and is now cultivated in some of the middle and western states to great advantage. It was not until the foreign countries, on which we heretofore were dependent for this article, laid a high export duty on it, that led to the manufacture of castor oil in the United States, where it is now made in great abundance, of better quality and at a less price. Large quantities of American coldpressed castor oil were shipped to London in 1826, they obtain under the snow. The small species live Diseases to which Peach Trees are subject. By A. which paid the shipper a handsome profit, when PARMENTIER, proprietor of the Horticultural Bo-Parliament deemed it necessary to protect their among the steep rocks on the mountains, and sometimes a flock is carried over a precipice into a gulf, tanic Garden, Brooklyn, L. 1. New York. possessions in the East and West Indies, by increasby an avalanche, where they remain until the In this country the peach tree is attacked princi- ing the duty on American castor oil, which is now warmth of their bodies melts the snow which copally by worms that feed upon the roots, near the equal to $1.60 per gallon; and even under these disvers them, and announces to their owners, by the surface of the ground. Few remedies have been advantages, it will pay a profit to the shipper. It is steam which ascends, the place into which they employed with success. It appears, however, as I supposed that the consumption of castor oil in the have been carried. have been informed by a farmer of New Jersey, United States is, on the most moderate calculation, that the application of fish placed about the foot of about one thousand barrels, or thirty thousand galthe tree, drives away the worms. Last year I re-lons a year. The crop of the last season will not, moved many worms from a peach tree to make the from the best information, exceed two hundred barwounds which they had made to appear. I employed rels, or six thousand gallons. This great deficiency with great success, bruised sorrel applied as a plas-is owing entirely to the low price the article had ter, tied upon the wounds. I have used bruised fallen to the year previous, when the crop was more sorrel in Europe with equal success upon gummed than fifteen hundred barrels. Another striking parts of the plumb tree and apricot. It was this use proof of the resources of our country. of it which first gave me the idea of applying it to the peach tree.

In the Crimea, and some countries near the Caspian seas, they have sheep that bear, when young, short curled wool of a blue, brown, or black colour, which is an object of commerce. That the wool may remain in small curls, the Tartars cover the lambs with a linen cloth sewed close around them, which is not taken off until the animal is killed. [These lamb skins are celebrated, being damasked, as it were, by clothing the little animal. In some of the vast forests of Russia, there are sheep which live in a wild state; these animals are so much affected by the sounds of drums and trum pets, that they begin to run, leap and dance as soon as they hear them; and they continue these motions until overcome by excitement and fatigue, they are no longer able to flee from their enemies.

It is very advantageous to make in the summer, small heaps of earth about five or six inches high, around the foot of the trees. The insect goes upon them and deposits its eggs a little way under the ground in the tree. In the fall, on removing the earth, the eggs are left uncovered and perish by the

The largest breed of sheep in the world is the fat-frost. tailed variety; it is raised in central Asia, China, Persia, Africa, &c. The tail is a mass of fat, and often weighs 30 pounds. Another variety of Asia is the long-tailed breed, with coarse wool; its tail sometimes drags on the ground.

NILES.

Dear Sir,-A lady, of the highest respectability, has indicated her wish to form and patronize an establishment of Leghorn hats, and solicits of me some seeds of the "Italian grass," suitable for that purpose. From what little attention I have given the subject, I believe it is an American species of grass that has been so successfully used in various sections of the country. You will greatly oblige me if you can obtain a few seeds of the kind generally in use, for the lady in question.

We have had a most singular season here—it was not until the night of the 21st that the ground was frozen so as to prevent my gardeners from working the ground. Yours, most respectfully,

WM. PRINCE.

After the worms the yellows is the malady which causes the premature death of peach trees. I believe that the cause depends in a great measure, on a defect in setting out the trees; and it is this upon which I found my reasoning. I have observed in Europe did not possess any fine woolled sheep his country, that for the most part in setting out until the twelfth century. The Roman writers men- trees, the earth is very rarely dug up more than two tion that fine wools and stuffs were imported from spades deep. The tree is put in, the roots are coSpain, but this only proves that the Spanish sheep vered, and it is abandoned. If the tree is vigorous, were better than those of the rest of Europe. In the roots soon extend in the loose soil, until they the twelfth century some African merchants sent to reach the hard and impenetrable earth. On vegeCadiz a few sheep, the wool of which was remarka-tating, in the spring, the roots are forced towards the ble for its fineness and whiteness. They were pur surface of the ground, where they become victims of chased by a Cadiz merchant, and placed on his insects. Finally the tree deteriorates in its nature, country estate, where they succeeded, but he found and a premature death follows. no imitators. A hole of three feet deep and four broad, is not J. S. SKINNER, Esq. About the year 1350, Peter, king of Castile, hav-too large. Sods of about three inches in thickness, ing been informed that there was a race of sheep in cut fine with the spade, should be put in the hole to Barbary, which had precious fleeces, sent several the depth of two feet, and covered with about one persons into Morocco to buy a great number of inch of good earth. Then put in the tree and cover bucks. From this epoch commenced the reputation the roots with loose mellow earth or vegetable of the wool of Castile. In the sixteenth century, mould. Precaution should be taken against the when Cardinal Ximenes was the Spanish minister, sinking of the earth, which ought to be calculated complaints were made to him that the sheep of Cas-at one inch for one foot. If the tree is planted too tile had deteriorated. To remedy the evil, this mideep, it will vegetate poorly and must perish at I produced a bottle of wine, which, doubtless, I nister determined to import a great number from length, without producing but poor fruit. I shall thought of a superior quality, and if I could form a Barbary; but as he could not obtain them by means never sell peach trees without giving these direc-orrect judgment, it was esteemed at least tolerable of negotiation, he kindled a war, and invaded Motions to those persons who have confidence in me. by the judges, and some by-standers, who tasted it rocco. The Spanish soldiers had orders to bring away as many sheep as they could; they pillaged the country, and returned to Spain with the precious plunder

The principal breeds of Spain are those which the monks of the Escurial possess; those of the convents of Guadaloupe, and of Paular; those of the duke d'Infantado, and of the counts of Negretti and Montareo. The sheep of the Escurial have the most

WINE AND CIDER. Sir,-On referring to the placard, issued by the Maryland Agricultural Society, previous to their last Cattle Show, I find amongst others designated, the following premiums, viz:

For the sample of the best cider, the pure juice of the apple, $10."

"For the sample of the best domestic wine, the pure juice of the grape, $10"

As to the cloque, it is produced by the interrup- also. But having used a small quantity of sugar in tion of the sap in the cold nights of spring. It often manufacturing it, I did not think that I was literally appears that but one part of the plantation is at entitled to the premium. I therefore disclaim any tacked, and only those trees which are in a current disappointment, so far as relates to myself There of air. This disease is not very dangerous. It were several other samples of wine and cider promore frequently kills the fruit; and it is prudent to duced, that seemed to be esteemed as tolerably take them off, because the tree, suffering by the loss good in quality, and as I thought respectably vouchof a great part of the leaves, is under the necessityed for, as being "of the pure juice of the grape," to recruit its strength. I have employed with suc-and "of the pure juice of the apple," I was there

fore confident, that some of the candidates would having pursued the valley of the former to the
have been successful in obtaining the proposed pre-mouth of Maiden's Choice branch, one of its tribu-
miums; but behold, (except some verbal observa- taries, a line was, in the first instance, carried up
tions by one of the judges, in which he promised a the valley of Maiden's Choice, and across the ridge
farther explanation,) there were no premiums grant- to the Patapsco at the Eagle factory, and after-
ed, no reason assigned-in fact, there was no report wards the line was resumed at the mouth of Maid-
made on the subject of "fermented liquors!!!" Now en's Choice branch, and continued up the valley of
sir, the question arises, whether it would not have Gwynn's falls for about three miles; the ridge was
been more proper, and consistent with the honour then again ascended, and on gaining its summit, a
of your society, for the judges in those premises, line was continued along its crest to the head of
to have awarded premiums, or to have given some Powell's run valley, by which it descended to the
good reasons why they did not? I presume you Patapsco, near the confluence of its northern and
will agree with me in thinking, that there is a de- western branches.
gree of cruelty in making such a display of valua- On the supposition of a road passing through any
ble and beautiful plate, whereby the hopes of poor depression in the ridge alluded to, it could, after
candidates are elevated, and afterwards not even tell striking the Patapsco, be prolonged, either in the
them why they are disappointed-besides, it must direction of the third route, by ascending Elkridge;
have the effect to dampen emulation. This interfer- or, as any route to the Patapsco may be, by ascend-
ence by one who is not a member of your associa-ing the valley of the Patapsco to either of its
tion, I am aware may be deemed impertinent, but sources, and descending to the Monocacy by the
let it be remembered, I complain not on my own valley of Bennett's creek, Bush creek, Linganore,
account, and you may either publish those observa- or Sam's creek; and from the Monocacy either to
tions, or not, as to you seemeth proper. With my pass across the South mountain to Williamsport, or
best wishes for the prosperity of your future Cattle to reach the Potomac at the Point of Rocks.
Shows, I remain, respectfully, yours,
Č. BIRNIE.

Thorndale, Jan. 13, 1828.

INTERNAL IMPROVEMENT.

BALTIMORE AND OHIO RAIL ROAD.
To the President and Directors of the Baltimore and
Ohio Rail-road Company:

The survey of the valley of the Patapsco throughout its extent, was omitted at this time, because the survey heretofore made in reference to a contem plated canal, will suffice for our present purpose. It had been, however, our intention to descend from Parr's spring by Bennett's, as well as by Bush creek; but the very unfavourable weather which continued during our operations, induced us to postpone this survey to some more propitious sea

son.

But no inconvenience will result from this circumstance, since a route to Parr's spring would GENTLEMEN: Agreeably to the recommendation be common to one by Bush and Bennett's creek, and contained in our report of November 6th, 1827, in the little difference which may exist in the facilities relation to the survey of experimental lines between afforded by the valley of either creek, is not likely Baltimore and the Potomac river, and in conformity to influence a decision in reference to the general to the instructions of your President, that the sur-direction of the road from Baltimore to the Potomac. veys be undertaken with all convenient despatch, The hope that we might be able, during the next we have the honour to report that, in order to de-season, to aid you in such a decision, and thereby termine the general direction of the Rail-road from the sooner promote the actual accomplishment of this city to the Potomac," surveys of the following the work in which you have engaged, was our moroutes were begun as soon as practicable after re tive in recommending the commenc ment of sur ceiving our instructions, and were completed on the veys even at the unfavourable season at which they 4th of the present month, viz:

1st. A route through the valleys of Jones' falls, Gwynn's falls, Cheneth's run, north branch of Patapsco and Little Pipe creek, to the Monocacy ri ver: whence it was prolonged through Harman's gap of the South mountain, in a direction to pass in the vicinity of Hagerstown, and terminate on the Potomac river at Williamsport.

2d. A route from Raltimore to the mouth of Little Pipe creek, by the valleys above mentioned, and thence along the valley of Monocacy river, passing through Fredericktown to its termination at the Point of Rocks, where the Potomac river breaks through the Catoctin mountain.

3d. A route from Baltimore crossing the valley of Gwynn's falls, and passing over to that of the Patapsco, near Elkridge landing: then ascending the latter valley until an opportunity offered near Ell cott's mills, for attaining such an elevation on Elkridge as has subsequently been found to admit a gradual ascent along the ridge to the summit at Parr's spring; whence a descent to the Monocacy was made by the valley of Bush creek, from the mouth of which the same direction may be pursued to the Potomac, as by the first or second routes

4th. A route from Baltimore through the valleys of Gwynn's falls, Patapsco river, Piney falls, Sam's creek and Little Pipe creek to the Monocacy: whence, as by the first or second routes, it may be prolonged across the South mountain to Williamsport, or through Fredericktown to the Point of Rocks.

In order to ascertain the greatest depression in

were undertaken.

LADIES' DEPARTMENT.

To A GROUP OF PLAYING CHILDREN.
Laugh on while yet the rosy blush
Of childhood's morning tints your skies;
Laugh on, while yet the kindling flush
Is on your cheeks and in your eyes;
I would not tell, to make you grieve,
How soon that mirth shall pass away;
That morning fade, and only leave
The broad, dull light of common day.
It makes my very spirit glad

To see your mirth and careless joys;
And may you never be more sad
Than you are now, my bright-eyed boys!
But I can read on every face,-

A something upon every brow,
Which will not pass without a trace

Of things you are not dreaming now.
First, passions wild and dark and strong,
And hopes and powers and feelings high!
Then manhood's thoughts, a rushing throng,
Shall sink the cheek and dim the eye.
And brows shall grow all pale with care,

And lips shall writhe in scorn or pain,
And age come on with hoary hair,-
And sadly tend to`earth again.
And cherished fancies, one by one,
Shall slowly fade from day to day;
And then, from weary sun to sun

Ye will not have the heart to play.
But oft amidst the shifting scene,
You'll smile on childhood's thoughtless joy,
And wish you had forever been

A careless, laughing, happy boy.

(Extract from the American Journal of Education.)
SUGGESTIONS TO PARENTS.

Physical Education:-The sense of Sight.
It has been stated, as one of the characteristics

of good vision, that it should be long preserved.
This, however, requires considerable care, and an
attention to some important precautions.

First, reading, which generally occupies the eye We have endeavoured thus briefly to exhibit a most intently, and therefore produces the earliest summary view of our recent operations, of which symptoms of fatigue, should not be continued too a more detailed account will be rendered, in con-long in one unbroken period, but should be subdividnection with appropriate maps and profiles, from which an opinion may be formed much more deti nite and certain than were our former conclusions, founded, as they were, on a mere examination by the eye; and we feel gratified in expressing our confidence that we shall soon be able to exhibit unquestionable proof of the entire feasibility of your enterprise, as far as the limits to which our surveys have extended.

ed into the occupation of different parts of the day, and alternated with some other pursuit. A change of exercise is, in itself, repose; and, with a little care, this may be always effected without any material loss of time; while by this process, the organ will be more strengthened, than by a complete alternation from active exertions to absolute quiescence.

Reading, during the twilight, should be strictly prohibited. There is no practice which tends more A detail of the facts alluded to, as resulting from certainly to develope morbid predisposition than this the surveys, is reserved till we shall have complet unfortunate habit: for the eye is strained beyond ed a Report on the reconnoissances of last season, measure to continue its pursuit, and is thus renderin which we propose to embrace a connected view of ed weak and irritable. Sudden transitions should the several routes from Baltimore to the Ohio river. always be avoided; for although the eye has the We beg leave to add, that the zeal and perseve-power of excluding the greater number of rays, by rance of the officers assistant, by whom the field the contraction of the iris almost to a point, and operations were carried on, under exposure to an again, of receiving a larger proportion by a dilataunusual inclemency of weather, merit an expression tion; yet this cannot be effected rapidly or frequentof our unqualified approbation. We also requestly, without a degree of suffering which is injurious. to be indulged in the expression of our gratitude Every individual may convince himself of the truth of for the kind attentions extended to the several par- this assertion, by the effect produced upon the visual ties, by the inhabitants of the country through which the surveys have been conducted. Respectfully submitted,

the ridge dividing Gwynn's falls from the Patapsco, Balt. Jan. 12, 1828.

WM. G. MCNEILL,

Capt. Top'l Engineers.
WM. HOWARD,

U.S. Civil Engineer.

S. H. LONG,
Top'l Engineers, Bt. Lt. Col.

organ, by the sudden introduction of candles, after sitting in the dark, or at least in a very weak light; an experiment which should always be avoided in practice: for as soon as the light ceases to be sufficient for the common purposes of employment, at that instant should candles be introduced. A similar effect should be guarded against in the change from the labours of the study, which it has been recommended to furnish with Venetian blinds, and to

defend from a very strong light, to the amusements of the play ground, and exposure to insolation. The transition should be gradual, and light should be admitted into the room for a few minutes before the little pupils leave it for their out-door exercises. It is desirable to avoid much reading by candle light, for a similar reason as that on which the eye should be defended from the full blaze of the meridian sun But, above all, the attempt to read by moonlight should be most uncompromisingly forbidden: since its insufficient, but dazzling brightness, is peculiarly injurious to this delicate organ.

As a constant reader of your Sporting Olio, I was pleased to see that we might, perhaps, be treated with occasional extracts from the "field notes" of members belonging to the various hunts in the neighbouring counties.

I have never known so many long runs before the courting season, as this year.

quent, on grounds that afforded frequent views of
Washington, Jan. 23, 1828.
him and his implacable pursuers. For the last half Dear Sir,-D's dogs had a hard run on Saturday,
hour we expected to see them run into him at every and unkennelled a fox at the intersection of the
turn. Perceiving him, at last, bearing towards his city and Leesburg roads-went north for a mile
earth, in evident distress, we pushed for, and stopped or two; doubled short back and went to Capt. Ter-
it. He took then another round. At this stage rett's; crossed the Alexandria and Winchester
of the chase, I observed an old and skilful hunts roads; doubled back and made for the broken
man, who had been until then comparatively still grounds on Difficult creek, a distance of fifteen
and quiet, become suddenly animated, and riding miles, but was killed within a short distance of mak-
up to the tail of the dogs, cheered them forward in ing them good. Music was up with the pack when
a way that seemed to give them new life. "Now," last viewed, but Rolla and Ratler were more than a
said he, "is the time to follow and encourage your mile behind.
dogs, if you would kill your game." It was then half
past three; the evening was sultry, and though
some of the stoutest dogs had occasionally given in,
all were now packed and running to kill-and when
we were about rushing for the brush, lucky reynard
found another earth, and saved his life-to run
"another day." The last hour of the chase was
beautiful. The fox sometimes gained on the dogs
by a fortunate double, and they again on him-
doubt and confidence of killing succeeded, and
if there was any disappointment in the finale, it
could not be said that the dogs had not behaved
well; and from the high banks in which he found
shelter from his ruthless foes, I was charmed with a
complete view of the celebrated round bay, which,
with its surrounding scenery, softened by the rays
of a setting sun, was well calculated to tranquilize
and soothe the feelings after their violent, but deli-
cious excitement, and to lead us to forgive any thing
but--shooting the fox.
AMATEUR.

[We thank our friend Amateur, and should be

delighted with the opportunity of witnessing similar
sport with the same party. We understand that 34
couple of fine dogs, belonging to Mr. R. D. of Prince
George's, were in the chase. Another correspon-
dent sends us extracts from letters, giving some ac-
count of the sports of the Washington hunt. We
understand that about two dozen greys have been
killed by their dogs this season, and do not believe
that the runs of all would average one hour and ten
minutes, perhaps not an hour, each!]

December 17.

I have yours of last evening. We met on Saturday at the bridge,-went to Piney hill,-a strong Young Juno, Jack, (Mr. M-'s fast

On Friday last I was politely invited to join a party to cross the Severn, opposite Annapolis, where it was said foxes were abundant and grounds good. The hour appointed was sunrise, to rendezvous at the ferry, after breakfasting with a friend, but the rain which fell at that time delayed us, so that we did not get to cover until 10 o'clock. Two hours passed tediously in cold drags, on which the dogs would sometimes tongue so freely, that we were now in breathless expectation of the burst-when south wind. all again was silent as the grave. More promising dog,) Slim, and four others got away with a fox to covers I never beheld. At last the pack, consisting the Creek bridge, Cedars, &c.; Ruler, Ratler, Juno, of nine couple, united and moved on handsomely, and some eight others, got away on the factory side the chorus swelling and the dogs becoming more animated every moment, until after a drag of a mile, "he's up-"he's off"-was the cry of all at once-and each one put spurs to his horse, taking his course for the points which seemed best to

command a view of the chase.

with another; and some others, I believe, found a
grey-the whole affair ended in disappointment.
The day was such, that we could not hear the dogs
three hundred yards down the wind, and this ac-
counts for the dogs behaving so badly. The truth
is, the dogs could not hear so as to pack.

*

ANTIQUITY OF TANDEM DRIVING.

It has been supposed that this description of charioteering is a bright invention of modern times. This is a great mistake; the ancients drove tandem, but only on extraordinary occasions and long journies. We learn from Virgil, that Eneas went to the Elysian fields with a tandem team, for the first exclamation of father Anchises, on seeing his son is "Venesti tandem!" Although it is to be presumed that the old gentleman was displeased at his son's extravagance, he makes allowances afterwards, admitting that the length of the journey might excuse the additional horse.

"Quantas ego te terras-vectum
Accipio."

This style of driving was evidently in great repute with the ancients. We find Horace, ode 2d, invoking Apollo in these words:

"Tandem venias, precamur

Augur Apollo."

you will come tandem." It does not appear, howWhich means, "We beg, prophetic Apollo, that ever, that the sun harnessed his steeds in this style, on ordinary occasions.

THE FARMAK.

BALTIMORE, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 1828.

The Congressional Committee on Manufactures did, agreeably to their promise, report within the National Intelligencer, a summary of the bill, the last month. We intended to have copied from but have concluded that it will be better to publish first the report and finally the bill, in the shape in which it may be enacted by Congress, if one should be passed. The whole subject is one of leading primary interest to all practical farmers, and we trust that our subscribers will hold us justiFive of our dogs are lost, and I much fear they fied in giving to it a considerable portion of our paare lost forever. D. went up the country on Friday per, which we propose to do for some weeks to week with our little pack Killed a grey on Satur-come-giving equal hearing to all sides. day morning, and a few minutes after started a red, which played round for near an hour, then broke away and was killed after a run of nine or ten miles, and within four or six of D's home.

Washington, Jan. 5, 1828.

"O happy, he! whose gen'rous steed Can course it with unrivalled speed: He marks what dog, sagacious vies, And justling strains to win the prize." The morning was uncommonly fine, the scent laid high, the ground was soft, and no losses ensued. Unfortunately, however, what was apprehended, soon happened; other foxes were started. The pack got divided, with six couple after the first, and where silk worms' eggs may be had, and how they Numerous inquiries are made of us to know three in pursuit of a second. The larger pack was pushing their game in fine style, when a little ahead may be transmitted. The following note to the Editor of the American Farmer, will serve as a we heard the report of a gun. The full cry suddenly ceased, and the dogs came all in a body to We recovered the last of the dogs on Thursday general answer to these inquiries, and we may say, their owners. Some uninspired poacher had the Hunted on Saturday with Capt. D. and Daniel D.--for the satisfaction of those who do not know the cruelty to bring powder and ball in aid of a force had eleven couple; went for a red on the lower fac writer, that every confidence may be placed in his sufficiently quick and terrible to appal the stoutest tory hill; found a grey there, which was killed in judgment and accuracy. hearted fox that ever broke cover; and thus brought forty-four minutes by Col. Miner's watch; found a gallant reynard to an ignominious and untimely red afterwards; run handsomely for thirty or forty end. We then united that pack with the smaller minutes, when he pushed for and made good the one, and after a short time, by some odd chance, Falls hills. Young Juno the favourite---Sting ran they changed a young fox for a large old fellow al well, nothing better, but she is still shy. We can most white, who kept them hard at it for three not put her in couples or in the kennel. hours. His runs were short and his doubles fre

*

January 15.

"I have on hand, and shall continue to keep a supply of silk worm eggs of the best Italian stock, a sufficient number of which for an experiment and for a stock of eggs for future use, will be sent to any person, by mail or otherwise, accompanied with ample and minute directions for the culture of silk, for five dollars. The number of eggs I propose

sending to each person, is from 1000 to 5000, the
The John Jay sailed on the 9th, in company with
product of which will be from 250,000 to 1,125,000 the Pacific, on board of which is passenger the no
eggs for another year's use. One thousand worms torious SNELSON, who robbed the bank at Peters
are as many as any person ought to manage the burg, and escaped to England by way of Quebec.
first year, as he ought to have practical knowledge of The principal part of the money taken from the
the process before he ventures to any considerable bank was found in his possession. From what
transpired previous to and since his apprehension,
"During cold weather, the eggs can be sent in let-there can be but little doubt of his insanity.
ters, by mail, with perfect safety, each letter being
capable of containing from five to ten thousand

extent.

eggs.

The Queen Mab sailed from Havre on the 34, put into Cowes on account of head winds on the

5th, and sailed thence on the 7th December. "Application for the eggs may be made to me by The great question in relation to Turkey had no letter, through the Post office, (enclosing five dol-yet been decided; but the opinion that war was in lars,) and will be promptly attended to by return evitable, constantly gained ground. mail; or personal applications may be made to me PARIS, December 2.-A courier, who arrived yes at the office of the Baltimore Patriot, corner of terday from Vienna, has brought the following intelNorth, (formerly Belvidere) and Market streets. ligence: GIDEON B. SMITH."

IN CONGRESS-HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
SILK AND SILK WORMS.

On the 10th of this month a grand Divan was held at Constantinople, and the answer to the am bassadors of the Three Powers was there decided

on.

1st. Before any negociation, and as a preliminary condition, the Three Powers shall renounce all intervention, direct or indirect, in the affairs of Turkey and Greece.

The Speaker laid before the House the following letter: Washington, Feb. 1st, 1828. Sir,--I have the honour to present to Congress, solemn reparation to the Ottoman Porte, for the in2d The Three Powers shall make a public aud through you, a treatise on the rearing of silk worms,sult offered to its flag at Navarin. by Count Von Haggi, of Munich, who sent it to me for this purpose. 3d. The Three Powers shall engage wholly to inThe Count has seen the resolution of the House of Representatives, directing the demnify the Sublime Porte for all the losses result compilation of a manual on the culture of silk, and ing from this insult. was desirous to promote the patriotic views of the House, by sending the result of his labours on the same subject, and as evidence of the good will he

bears the United States.

I have the honour to be, very respectfully,
JAMES MEASE.

The Hon Mr. STEVENSON,

Speaker of the House of Representatives. The letter, and the treatise accompanying it, were referred to the Committee on Agriculture. It was also ordered to be translated into the English language and printed, with the plates therein contained.

at 30; 850 Montreal Pots at 25s 6d; 29s. for old, and 29 a 30s. for new; 630 Montreal Pearls at 29s. 6d a 31s. 6d. The sales of other articles of U. S. produce are, 748 bls. Tar at 14s a 14s 6d, 542-bls. Turpentine at 10s. a 10s. 6d. 10 hhds Quercitron Bark at 15s. 3d There is no further improvement in Indian Corn; sales are made at 34s. pr 480 lbs. Some sales of Flour have been made at 24s a 25s. pr. bbl. 28 bags new Dutch Cloverseed, of good quality, sold at 67s. a 70s.

The demand for Cotton to-day has been but languid; the sales are estimated at 3000 bags at the prices of yesterday.

SIR ALBERT,

The largest blooded horse in America, will stand for mares the ensuing season at Frederick, in Maryland, from the 15th of March until the 1st day of July next. For particulars, see handbills.

BALTIMORE PRICES CURRENT. Corrected for the American Farmer, by Edward I. Willson, Commission Merchant and Planters' Agent. No 11, Bowly's whrf. Sales of tobacco during the last week, was 15 hhds. of Ohio, at $5.00 a 6.00-23 hhds of do. at $6.00, and 5 hhds of do. at $7.50 State warehouses in Baltimore, was 35 hhds. There is The inspections at the three little or no variation in prices since the last quotations. TOBACCO.--Seconds, $2.75 a 7.00-Scrubs, 4.50 a On the receipt of this answer, Mr. Stratford Can- 6 50-common crop, 3.00 a 4.00-Do. red, 3.75 a 4.50Ding demanded a firman, in order to forward it to his good red, 4.00 a 6.00-Fine red, 5.50 a 8.00-Yellow government, and take its orders. The firman was and red, 7.00 a 10.00-Yellow do. 5.50 a 1.00-Fine refused. The French and Russian ambassadors did yellow, 10.00 a 20.00-Virginia do. 3.50 a 7.00-Rapnot think fit to expose themselves to a similar re-pahannock, 3.00 a 4.00-Kentucky, 3.50 a 5.00 do. for fusal. wrapping, 6.00 a 7.00.

The Austrian internuncio, M. Ottenfels, alone despatched a courier at Vienna. This courier was it was from Vienna that those arrived yesterday, charged with despatches by three ambassadors, and which are destined for the governments of France and England.

HAVRE, 1st Dec. 1827.-Our last advices are dated 15th ult. Our cotton market continued very duil of the elections, but the demand is consequence

in

ard-st 5.00 a 5.124; city mills, 4.624 a 4.75; SusquehanFLOOR-white wheat family, $6.00 a 6.50—sup. Howna, 4.75-CORN MEAL, bbl. 2.62 a 2 75- GRAIN, sales ard, and was from Virginia-white wheat, ordinary to of red wheat this week at .95, weight above the standbest, .95 a 1.10-red, do. do. .85 a .95--CORN, ordinary to good, 38 a 43-RYE. 4 3a.45 -OATS, 24 a 31-BEANS, .80 a 1.00-PEAS, .45 a.50—CLOVER seed, 4.75 a 5.25— CIMOTHY, 1.75 a 2.00-BARLEY, 60 a 65-FLAXSEED, .80COTTON, Virginia, .10 a.103-Louisiana, a.13—Ala-` now fair, and holders have met the buyers freely at bama, 10.114-Missouri, .10 a. 104 N. Carolina, .91 a .104-WOOL, common, unwashed, .15 a .16-washed, reduction of 2 to 3 centimes on inferior to mid-18 a 20-half blood, .20 a 25-three-quarter, .25 a 30 dling sorts. Prices of the better qualities are sup -full do. .30 a 35-HEMP, Russia, ton, $275 a 290—— ported. The sales since our last, comprise 4336 Country, dew-rotted, ton, 136 a 140-water-rotted, 170 bags. We refer to the annexed cotton statement, a 190-FISH, Shad, Susquehanna, 6 a 6.50; do. do. trimexhibiting a stock of 43,264 bales. med, 6 50 a 7.00-Herrings, Susquehanna, No. 1, bbl. Ashes have improved, and sales of pots have been 2.75 a 3.00; do. do. No. 2, 2.624 a 2.75-Mackerel, No. effected at 41f, a 50f. Our market is bear of pearls., 5.00 a 5.50; No. 2, 5.00 a 5.25; No. 3, 4.00 a 4.59No rice in market; the first arrival will probably sell at good prices.

The expenditures of Mr. Prince, of Long island, incident to the culture and extension of his Horticultural establishment, exceeded, for the lasta year, as we have understood, the sum of $18,000!!

Advices from France represent the price of wheat to be advancing there so considerably, as to make it probable the French ports will be opened for the admission of foreign wheat.-Liverpool, Dec. 8. When the Turkish authorities at Prevesa heard

BACON, hams, Balt cured, .9; do. Eastern Shore, .121—
KEY, in hhds. Ist proof, .22—in bbls. 24.

hog round, cured, .6 a .7-Feathers, .26 a .28-WHIS

CONTENTS OF THIS NUMBER.

A Dissertation on the Qualities and Effects of Lime as a Manure, from the Letters of Agricola, written for of the affair at Navarin, they immediately prohibited Nova Scotia, by John Young, Esq.-Arthur Young's Exthe export of provisions."

(From our Correspondent.) Messrs. Carter & Prentiss,

LIVERPOOL, Dec. 8, 1827.

periments on Agriculture, with remarks by J. Buel, con-
tinued An Essay on New Manufactures and Protecting
Duties-On the Different Varieties of Sheep, and Quali-
ties of Wool-On the Diseases to which Peach Trees
are subject, by A. Parmentier, of Brooklyn, L. I, New
York-American Castor Oil--Grass for Bonnets, in imi-
tation of Leghorn Wine and Cider-Report of the
Engineers to the President and Directors of the Balti-
more and Ohio Rail-road Company-Poetry, To a Group
Education, the Sense of Sight-Fox Hunting, account
of Playing Children-Suggestions to Parents, Physical
of a Hunt near Annapolis, and extracts of letters, with
notices of the sport in neighbouring districts-Antiquity
of Tandem Driving-Editorial, Silk Worms for sale by
Mr. G. B. Smith, of Baltimore-Latest News from Eu-

Dear Sirs,--There has been a steady demand for
cotton all this week, and a respectable amount of
business has been done, although the market has
been much less animated than it was during the two
previous weeks, which induced some of the large
holders to press sales of Alabamas, and the middle
and better qualities of Orleans cotton at a decline
of 1-8d. on the currency of the early part of the
week. The better qualities of Sea Island are heavy
of sale, but the commoner sorts sell freely at 11 a rope-Advertisement-Prices.
13d. From the 1st to the 7th inst. inclusive, the
sales altogether are computed at 15,180 bags.

There continues a good demand for Ashes; the
sales this week consist of 30 bbls. old U. S. Pearls

Printed every Friday, at Five Dollars per annum, for JOHN S. SKINNER, Editor, by JOHN D. Toy, corner of St. Paul and Market-sts.

No. 48.-VOL. 9.

AGRICULTURE.

ON GRASSES.

AMERICAN FARMER-BAltimore, FebruARY 15, 1828.

377

effects will be wonderful The spirit of inquiry will moderately manured. We usually cut it once, and be sustained and increased, until it becomes satis use the second crop for after-feed for cattle, horses fied by perfect acquisition and enjoyment. In rela and hogs. There is no vegetable which suits swine tion to these subjects, I have read several excellent so well and makes them fat so rapidly. I am disLetters addressed to G. W. Jeffreys, from a distin essays in your monthly paper. The subjects were posed to think that this species of grass will thrive "guished agriculturist of Massachusetts, formerly treated with much discrimination and detail. The remarkably well in your climate. Other grasses President of the Berkshire Agricultural Society, only objection that impressed me was, that they are much spoken of; such as the fiorin, lucerne and communicated for publication in the American Far were too technical and refined for the common guinea grasses. The two first are valuable, but remer, with other extracts from the unpublished Agri-mass of readers. It is a common fault with most quire too much expense in the cultivation to make cultural correspondence of Mr. Jeffreys. writers, whose purpose is to teach and inform the them profitable, except in the vicinity of large towns raass of their fellow men, that they assume a dress and cities. But, sir, the Guinea grass merits your G. W. JEFFREYS, Esq. Pittsfield, Jan. 12, 1818. for their ideas above the level of common learning. particular attention. I have seen details of several Sir,-Your obliging favour of the 18th of No This renders them less intelligible, hard to be un experiments in South Carolina, Georgia, and on the vember, reached me the 20th of December. It derstood, slow to acquire the correct meaning-all Mississippi, near Natchez and near New Orleans. should have been answered long since, and it is re of which finally produces disgust and destroys their You may find an accurate account of this grass in gretted; but such has been the peculiarity of my utility. In treating rural subjects, the language Dr. Mease's Archives of Useful Knowledge, vol 2, situation, that it has been altogether inconvenient. should be plain, clear, strong, correct and impres- No. 3, and also in the 3d vol of the Memoirs of the The extreme sickness of a son resident at Boston, sive; the sentences should be rather short, and the Philadelphia Agricultural Society. It you have not requiring absence for a considerable time to attend order perspicuous. This standard will attract all experienced any thing of this grass, I beg leave to on him, so much accumulated my business, that I descriptions of men to read. The above papers recommend it to you. I have no doubt it will prove have found no leisure until now; and I now devote were well written for a mind that had been disci- useful beyond any thing you have seen. It is provmyself to your wishes with pleasure. You much plined. They were able and elegant performances.ed to yield a quanuty of hay, or grass, almost beoverrate my services, and I fear the means I pos-I did not discover who was the author. I perceive yond belief. I intend soon to try it in this climate. sess of being either useful or amusing to you. I, among the essays on agriculture, one or two per I have a wish that you should try the Mangel however, freely surrender to your observation such sons referred to you in your state for experiments. Wurzel, or Scarcity Root. I am confident it will information as my experience and reflections ena-I apprehend that the spirit of improvement is in flourish well, and prove highly useful during the ble me to impart; and I do it with the more confi- considerable activity in your state. If I can do any summer months, by cropping it and feeding it green dence, because the vestiges of rapid improvements thing to aid it, or to excite to inquiry and activity, to your cows and animals that labour; and in the in this section of our country, are visible and real. I shall feel extremely happy. In your last letter winter the root is most valuable to cut up and give We here have great cause of gratitude to the Go-you request of me some supplementary remarks on to your cows and other animals, or to boil and mix vernor of the world, that he has inspired our fellow grasses. I now subjoin what occurs, but it may be with provender of any kind. The product of this citizens to enter on these enterprises, and to perse nothing new or remarkable. I will devote myself root is very great, and amply repays every expense. vere so vigorously in their accomplishment. The to such grasses as I am confident are suited to your I have had considerable acquaintance with it, and success here is great and beyond expectation; and soil and climate, and will be useful-viz: shall cultivate it more extensively than ever. It you need no better evidence of the fact, than the English grass.-This is a fine delicately flavoured much resembles the largest beet root; is sweet and constant rise of agricultural societies in all direc-grass, usually cultivated on red and dark loam, or any good to use for human food when small. If you tions in the northern and eastern states; and to ele-good soil rather inclined to be dry than to hold mois have none of the seed among you, it can be had at vate our joy to the highest degree, we have just ture or water constantly. It springs early in the sea- Philadelphia. You cultivate it as you do beets, only read an account that the distinguished Madison, son and is fit for mowing earlier than any other grass. giving it more room, as it grows large. descending from the chair of state, is now occupied, it does not, at the first cutting, usually grow very as President of an agricultural society in Virginia, dense and all, but is heavy and yields well. It is in diffusing among his fellow citizens, those bless most valuable for the second crop, usually growing ings which their rural situation so eminently invites. thicker and plentiful. This is our best forage for We anticipate, and anxiously hope, that this spirit sheep and lattening of catile. The seed is prowill move on, and excite every region of this wide cured as you do clover, &c. Let a portion of the spread nation, to make suitable efforts to second crop get ripe, and cut it by reaping the top with nature in her destinations, to render this favoured sickie when it is damp, to prevent waste; tie up in land more happy, independent and splendid than small bundles and set it up to dry, then thresh and any which has existed. If the general government clean it. The seed being fine, it requires only a do their duty, and perform it with an intelligent re-small quantity to the acre; the proper quantity will gard to its importance and the effects that must depend on your soil. By throwing a small quantity follow, we cannot be disappointed in our most san- on a spot, you can ascertain the proper quantity for guine expectations. The efforts and expenditures stocking. It usually spreads much from year to to succeed these inestimable acquisitions, by the year, and increases annually, by shelling out when Berkshire Agricultural Society, will entitle its mowed. It will continue many years without plough founders and patrons to a splendid page in the his- ing up. To make it profitable, it requires annually tory of the age. The last anniversary of this soci- considerable manure, if it be much led. It always ety, on the 1st and 2d days of October last, was at- requires more manuring than any other grass. In tended more numerously than ever; excited a deep this country we seldom have occasion to sow the er interest, and called forth a more distinguished seed. It appears to be a native of New England, spirit. We move on with a steady pace in the and is apt to make inroads on all other grasses. great work committed by Heaven to our care. We We do not, however, esteem it quite so valuable as hope to see the next season ameliorating and che-clover and herds-grass; the English grass being in rishing us in the expectation and fruition of plenty. nature inclined to cover the surface with an infinity If we are permitted to remain, the next anniversa- of strong roots, while the latter run deeper, and do ry will exceed any former one, and we believe we shall not be exceeded in this country. Our cattle are improving beyond all expectation; our sheep are again rising to their former estimation; the value of wool and woollens is much improved. The Herds-g -grass is an excellent grass; yields much, is recent distress and embarrassments produced by easily propagated; the seed is cheap and easily pro excessive importations of foreign fabricks, has work-cured. Every tarmer can raise his own, by letting ed its reformation-and the country is throwing off a piece of it annually get ripe, and then reap off her burthens and sufferings, and taking refuge in the top as directed above. This grass is always those native resources and means which alone can most suitable in dark, rich, damp soils, sowed pretty procure ease, plenty and independence. These dense. It improves the crop much by mixing with subjects are now the most popular, and as you wish, it red top, which is a rich durable grass. bave, in fact, in this region, become the common Red clover-all red loams, sandy, gravelly and themes of conversation with both sexes and among dry soils are most suitable. It yields bountifully our politest circles. This is as it should be. The and can be cut twice in a season, if not too dry and No. 48.-VOL. 9.

a

not bind and stiffen the soil. In all convertible
husbandry we esteem the latter preferable, for they
usually keep the soil tender and light, and fitter for
the plough and for crops.

Orchard grass, so called, which you mention, we esteem very little. It is denominated orchard grass, because peculiar to orchards, which are usually planted so dense as to shade the earth and exclude the genial heat of the sun, and hence a grass that is tough and ill favoured It ought not to be cuitivated. Herds grass will flourish in the same situation better, and is altogether more useful Orchards do better when ploughed once in four or five years, and sowed with oats, rye, barley, wheat, or what you please, and at the same time stocked with herds-grass. The roots of the apple trees for two feet around the bodies, should be kept free of grass, and rather concaved. This always preserves them thrifty.

The tall meadow grass you speak of, usually grows on very wet or swamp land. We do not esteem it. We use it from necessity, but change it as soon as possible by ditching and drying such land, and sowing thereon red top and herds grass seed, which flourish extremely well on such soils. I take occasion to remark, that the number of grasses and their variety, are not so essential as a correct selection among them; and no better selection can be made. in a country of thin and sparse population, than English, red clover, herds grass, Guinea grass, white clover, and scarcity root. These, if judiciously cultivated, will meet all your wishes and expectations. i believe your views should be confined to them. I observe among the writers on agriculture, the same unfortunate rage for novelty that rules over the herd of novel writers. They seldom dxell long enough on one subject to make a fair experiment, before they resort to some new thing-and in a course of such transient efforts, they dissipate their usefulness, and it results in no one settled and valuable attainment. Imake these remarks a cau ion to all who are commencing a course of experiments, I have omitted answering two maite is you inquie fers to the Engush grass, viz: hoo much seed is to be sown to the acre, and at what time should it be