An influential horticultural society, established in the capital of New England, has a valuable property, a hall, and other real estate; holds creditable monthly displays and a grand annual exhibition, awards valuable premiums, and is, in truth, an efficient society, notwithstanding the periodical bickerings and jealousies among its prominent members, generally resulting from disputes about premiums, or deceptions practiced upon the committees to obtain such. Now, Mr. Editor, you see the scope proposed in reference to our Rural Societies. When the positions of these organizations shall have been stated, we shall have something to say as to a remedy. Are you and your readers ready for the question?

[We think much good might be done by pointing out wherein these societies have failed, and the causes of such failure, in order that these causes may be avoided for the future by them and others. This will naturally lead you to analyze the principles by which they have been governed, and afford you an opportunity of discussing their soundness. This will tax your acuteness and judgment to such a degree that you will have little desire to inquire into personal motives. Tour position will be that of a judge rather than a lawyer, and you will therefore not be unmindful of the gravity pertaining to such a position. As we have had no inconsiderable experience in such matters, we will advise with you from time to time, if that should be necessary. Let us all be animated by a desire to do good; with such a spirit we can see no objection to treating this matter, ln regard to No, 3, you should have finished, as you began, with the past tense; but we shall have something to say when No, 3 comes fairly up* You will probably have a No, 5 before you get through.

It is a lamentable fact that Horticultural Societies, at least those in our large cities, have not accomplished satisfactorily the objects of their formation, and are far from occupying that high position which gives dignity and authority to their proceedings. We have often expressed the conviction,, that a Horticultural Society which simply holds a couple of public exhibitions annually, has left undone the most important part of its duties. The subject, we know too well, Is beset with difficulties, but we are far from regarding them as insurmountable. It remains to be seen whether our correspondent can suggest "a better way." - Ed].

Society Number Four 160017