If you think the above worth an insertion in the pamphlet you spoke of, you are at liberty to insert it—if not, you will please return the letter to me, as soon as convenient, and if you think it will pass off any better, you may affix the following signature to the communication.
Edward H. Seaman, Recording Secretary,
Queen's Co. Agricultural Society.
[Note 1.]—Yes, that is the word—good luck—it is all good luck. It is astonishing how many farmers there are in this country who will stand with their hands in their breeches pockets, fumbling idle dollars, while a neighbor expends his for guano, and produces a fine crop of wheat upon an old worn out buckwheat field; at which they stare in stupid wonder at the good luck of the thing.
What a pity it had not been the good luck of such men to have been born with common sense enough to profit themselves by their neighbors good luck.
[Note 2.]—It would be far better to sow the guano broadcast and plow it in, or scatter it in drills and turn a light furrow on it before planting.
"Hempstead, Aug.27, 1852.
Seth Chapman, Esq.—Dear Sir:—I believe I was the first person in Queens County using guano; having imported some from England in the ship Yorkshire, in 1842. This was from the Ichaboe Islands. I have since used nearly all the varieties, and consider the Peruvian the cheapest and best.
In applying guano, I think by making a compost, the greatest benefit is derived; say one peck of plaster, one bushel of loam, two of saw dust, mixed up a month or six weeks before using. From 100 to 200 lbs. of guano is enough for a crop of oats or buckwheat. I have not found it to succeed with corn or potatoes; probably from being accompanied by a dry season. The best wheat I ever raised was from using 350 lbs. to the acre, composted. This was on a light soil, and returned 31 bushels to the acre, on seven acres, weighing 62 lbs. The grass was poor after it. As a top dresser, I have used 200 lbs. per acre, very early in the spring, on half a lot, which mowed more than half as much again as the part not dressed. One of my neighbors has used 300 lbs. per acre, plowed in for potatoes; the yield, good, so far, having just commenced digging.
John Harold."