A visit to a farm house; or, An introduction to various subjects connected with rural economy. / Seventh edition, revised and corrected.

by active 1801-1820? S. W.

Arthur. To make it into hay.

Grandpapa. Yes. But why does turning it about make grass into hay?

Arthur said he did not know.

Grandpapa. Then I will tell you. The grass when cut down is full of moisture. If you squeeze a blade in your fingers, it will be damp; and that dampness is called sap. Now, while the sap is in it the grass will not keep. If you were to make it into a stack, it would soon rot, and smell so putrid you would not like to go near it. But when it is turned about to the sun and the wind, till the sap is dried away, there is no more danger, and you may stack it, and keep it for a long time.

Arthur. But if I had a field, grandpapa, I would never make hay. My horses should go in and eat the grass when they wanted it; and I would save myself the trouble of working for them.

Grandpapa. I am afraid, Arthur, you would make a lazy farmer. Do not you know that nothing in this world is to be had without trouble? and if you are so very sparing of your pains, I fear you will not succeed very well.

Arthur. Why not, pray, sir?

Grandpapa. Did you ever take notice of the grass in the winter?

Arthur. Yes; I believe it is then short and black.