A Farmer’s Prospects and Responsibilities
An agricultural paper, the Orange Judd Farmer, in its issue of July 23, gives an annual review of the agricultural situation. It predicts coming prosperity for the farmer, and surely he needs it. Among other things it says, “There is a brilliant promise for the largest tonnage of crops this year ever produced in America.” The value of the wheat crop for 1896-97 is estimated at $861,000,000, as against $460,000,000 for the year previous. For all staple crops the returns are estimated at $100,000,000 more this year than last. But expecting prosperity from solely natural sources frequently leads to disappointment. There are many vicissitudes between the sowing and reaping, and the reaping and the harvest. The prudent farmer will use economy and wisdom in the use of means which God is now giving him in trust. Next year is uncertain. Let him take the Lord as his senior partner.