Address to Farmers’ Sons.

South Canterbury Times, Issue 8130, 14 January 1895, Page 3

Address to Farmers’ Sons.

Boys, what do you intend to do for a living? asks George D. Hunt in the National Stockman. You must do something—you were not born to be idle. Besides, self-respect and your own prosperity, motives of benevolence and philanthropy have claims on your industry. But do you think what is to be your occupation when you attain mature age ? Will you learn a trade ? Will you be merchants, professional men, or will you be farmers ? These questions must soon be answered for each of you. You have been raised on the farm ; therefore, let me say to you—do not go to the city. Perhaps you will say you have talent and scientific learning too great to stay in the country. There is in that fact a strong reason why you should stay in the country and be farmers. You are all wrong in thinking that any ignoramus can be a good farmer, and that smart boys and good scholars must go to the city. In the business of tilling the soil there is as much chance for the exercise of the mental powers as in any pursuit. Scientific knowledge can be applied there as much as in any art. Learn the modern improvements in the structure barns and dwelling-houses, and farm implements likewise. Learn also the best breed of domestic animals ; how to take care of them and get the most profit out of them. Then put your knowledge into practice and set a good example to your brother farmers. This will make you good citizens. Good men and good women are what our country will always need ; and whence are they to come.

Agriculture is the noblest occupation that ever was pursued, and it requires learned practitioners to give it the reputation that it deserves. Farmers are surer of happiness and prosperty than any other class of people. The popular prejudice that now exists does not become our age of civilisation. If people would thoroughly understand and practise it more efficiently, it would then be considered one of the most respectable occupations for man’s source of living. Now, my young friends, look forward into the future and think what you are going to do for a livelihood. Consider what business you are best adapted to and whether that business will be a true source of prosperity to you and of usefulness to you and your countiy. Having ascertained this, learn that business thoroughly. Do not be satisfied with half-way proficiency. It is true that no man can arrive at perfection in any part. But this is no excuse for not trying, or doing your best according to your ability. No person will prosper in any business without thoroughly understanding it and thoroughly practising it. If the farmer would command the highest price for his products in the markets he must raise good articles. If the mechanic would command higher wages, he must do his work well. In conclusion I would say, young men be wise in time, prudently, choose your occupation, consider how much that business is wanted by the public, attain a high degree of proficiency in it; then success and prosperity will be yours.