Samuel Hartlib HIS LEGACY OF HUSBANDRY.  
Wherein are bequeathed to the Commonwealth of ENGLAND, not only Braband, and Flanders, but also many more Outlandish and Domestic Experiments and Secrets (of Gabriel Plaits and others) never heretofore divulged in reference to Universal Husbandry.  
With a Table showing the general Contents or Sections of the several Augmentations and enriching Enlargements in this Third Edition.  Psal. 144. v. 13, 14 15. 
That our Garners may be full, affording all manner of store, that our sheep may bring forth thousands, and ten thousands in our streets.  
That our Oxen may be strong to labour, that there be no complaining in our streets.  
Happy is that people that is in such a case; yea happy is that people whose God is the Lord.  
London, Printed by J. M. for Richard Wodnothe, in Leaden-hall Street next to the Golden-Hart. 1655.   

A Table showing the General Contents or Sections of the Legacy of Husbandry.  

AN Introduction to the Legacy of Husbandry, extracted out of the Surveyors Dialogue.  
A large Letter concerning the Defects and Remedies of English Husbandry, page 1.  
The 1. deficiency concerning Ploughs and Carriages, pag. 4, 5, 6.  
The 2. deficiency about digging of Land, setting and howing in of Corn, pag. 6, 7, 8.  
The 3. deficiency concerning Gardening, pag. 8, 9, 10.  
The 4. deficiency in Smut and Mildew, pag. 10, 11, 12, 13, 14.  
The 5. deficiency concerning planting of Apples, Pears, Cherries, and Plums, pag. 14, 15.16, 17, 18, 19  
The 6. deficiency concerning not improving our Fruits, pag. 19, 20, 21.22.  
The 7. deficiency concerning Vines, p. 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29.  
The 8. deficiency concerning Hemp and Flax, p. 30.31, 32, 33.  
The 9 deficiency concerning Dunging and Manuring lands, p. 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38.  
The 10. deficiency concerning the Non-improvement of our Meadows, p. 39, 40, 41.  
The 11. deficiency concerning Wast lands, p. 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46.  
The 12. deficiency in Woods, p. 46, 47, 48, 49, 50.  
The 13. deficiency of Bees, p. 50, 51, 52, 53.  
The 14. deficiency concerning Silkworms, p. 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58.  
A Copy of King James Letter to the Lords Lieutenants of the several Shires of England for the increasing of Mulberry-trees, and the breeding of Silkworms, for the making of Silk in England, p. 59, 60, 61, 62.  
Instructions for the increase and planting of Mulberry trees. What ground is fit for the Mulberry-seeds, how the same is to be ordered, and in what sort the seeds are to be sowed therein, p. 63, 64.  
When the Plants that are sprung up of the seeds are to be removed, and how they are to be planted the first time, p. 64.  
When and how the Plants are to be removed the second time, and in what manner they are to be planted where they shall remain, p. 64, 65.  
When and how the Eggs of the Silkworms are to be hatched, and how to order the Worms that shall come of them, p. 65, 66, 67.  
When and how to make fit rooms for the Worms to work their bottoms of Silk in, and in what sort the said bottoms are to be used, p. 67, 68  
The 15. deficiency, of the ignorance of the Husbandry of other places, p. 68, 69, 70, 71, 72.  
The 16. deficiency, of the ignorance of things taken from the earth, and waters of this Island, p. 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77.  
The 17. deficiency, of the vegetables of this Island, and their virtues and uses, p. 77, 78, 79, 80, 81.  
The 18. deficiency, concrning Animals, p. 82, 83, 84, 85.  
The 19 deficiency, concerning divers things necessary for the good of Cattle, p. 85, 86, 87, 88, 89.  
The 20. deficiency, of the want of divers things which are necessary for the accomplishment of Agriculture, p. 89, 90, 91, 92.  
The 21. deficiency, that because of our sins we have not the blessing of God upon our labours, p. 92, 93.  
The last deficiency, that we do not magazine or store up Corn, when the Lord sendeth us plenty, p. 93, 94, 95.  
Copies and Extracts of more Letters, tending very much to the great improvement not only of Agriculture, but true and real Learning and natural Philosophy, p. 96, 97, 98.  
Queres scent into France, about the seed called La Lucern, with the Answers to them, p. 98, 99, 100, 101, 102, 103, 104.  
A Copy of a Letter relating a proof or experiment of an strange English Husbandry, p. 104, 105.  
A conjectural Essay upon the foregoing Secret or Experiment of an English Husbandry, p. 105, 106, 107.  
An Extract of a Letter from Amsterdam, with another Experiment of a French Husbandry, and the Answers to them, p. 108, 109.  
Another Letter from Paris, discovering the secret of the forenamed French Husbandry, p. 110.  
Another Extract of a Letter from the Low-countries, upon the Parisian experiment of Husbandry, p. 110, 111.  
Another Letter expressing the reasons why the experimenter of the Barley-corn, thinks it not fit or expedient to part with his secret as yet, for a common use, pag. 111, 112, 113.  
A secret practised with very good success in England, concerning sowing of Wheat to prevent it from being smutty, p. 113.  
Another secret practised in Germany for the enriching of Meadows, p. 113.  
How to make Rushy ground to bear Grass, p. 114.  
For planting or sowing Walnuts, p. 114.  
Mr. Lanyon's description of the usual manner of planting and transplanting (according to that of Flanders) of those trees called Abeales, imparted for public Good, p. 115, 116.  
Another direction for the planting (understand the second planting) of the Abel-trees, p. 116.  
New Observations concerning Abel-trees, p. 117.  
Dr. Arnold Boats Annotations upon the Legacy of Husbandry: from p. 118. to p. 132.  
An Answer to the Animadversor on the large Letter of Husbandry; from pag. 132 to pag. 172.  
An Observation concerning a Fish-calender, p. 172.  
The Profitable Mercurius, or Mercurius Laetificans; from pag. 173. to pag. 182.  
A Treatise of Gabriel Plaits, containing certain Notes, Observations, Experiences, and Improvements of Husbandry, with the judgement upon them of an experienced Husbandman, who hath also brought the Invention of Setting of Corn to greater perfection.  
A Comparison between Ploughing and Sowing of three Acres of Land after the old fashion, and Ploughing and Setting of one Acre after the manner declared in the book printed Anno Dom. 1601. by Mr. Maxey, Gentleman, a great practizer in those days in the Art of setting of Corn, p. 185, 186, 187, 188.  
Experiments and Improvements for enriching of land by Mr. Plaits New Invention or Engine, which disperseth the Compost in such manner, that it falleth all within the reach of the attractive virtue of the Corn.  
The first Experiment or Improvement, p. 188, 189.190.  
The second Experiment or Improvement, wherein is showed how a rich Compost may be made in form of earth fit to fill up the holes when the Corn is set, p. 190.  
The third Experiment or Improvement, where is showed how a rich Compost may be made in form of earth near to the Sea, which may be carried many miles, p. 191, 192.  
The fourth Experiment or Improvement, wherein is showed how a rich Compost may be made in form of earth for the purpose aforesaid, which may also be converted into Saltpetre, p. 192, 193, 194.  
The fifth Experiment or Improvement, wherein is showed how the difference of the nature of land may be found out, thereby to fit it with an apt Compost, p. 194, 195, 196.  
The sixth Experiment or Improvement, wherein is showed how Farm-houses, Manors or Towns may be builded upon high grounds, and plentifully furnished with water, p. 196, 197.  
The seventh Experiment, wherein is showed how Sellars that are annoyed with Water-springs may be remedied, p. 197, 198.  
The eighth Experiment, wherein is showed how the rot in Sheep may be cured, p. 198, 199, 200.  
The ninth Experiment, wherein is showed how Corn may be preserved in cheap years without corruption, so that it may supply the dearth when it cometh, p. 200, 201, 202.  
The tenth Experiment, wherein is showed the natural cause why the changing of Seed-corn produceth an improvement; also certain ways for the melioration of Seeds and Fruits, p. 202, 203, 204.  
The eleventh Experiment, wherein is showed how rich Compost may be made in great Cities of things formerly cast away, p. 204, 205.  
The twelfth Experiment, wherein is showed how any Kingdom may live in great prosperity with half the trouble and charge which now they sustain, and yet live in adversity, p. 205, 206, 207, 208.  
The thirteenth Experiment, wherein is showed how Timber for Buildings, and Wood for Householdstuff may be provided in short space, p. 208, 209.  
The fourteenth Experiment, wherein is showed divers ways concerning Fruit-trees, p. 209, 210.  
The fifteenth Observation and Experiment, showing how it may be ordered that Corn shall never be exceeding cheap to the great prejudice of the Farmer, nor exceeding dear to the grievance of the buyer, p. 210, 211, 212, 213.  
The sixteenth Experiment, showing how all sublunary substances may be changed one into another, 213, 214.  
The first Experiment, showing how Minerals may be turned into Vegetables, p. 214.  
The second Experiment, showing how this Corn may be turned into Animals, p. 214, 215.  
The third Experiment, showing how thy Animal may be turned into Vegetable again, p. 215.  
The fourth Experiment, showing how this Vegetable may be turned back into Minerals, p. 215, 216.  
The last Experiment, showing how weeping land may be drained where there is no level, p. 216. Thus far Mr. Plat's new Treatise.  
A Philosophical Letter concerning Vegetation, or the causes of Fruitfulness, p. 217, 218, 219.  
An extract out of another Philosophical Letter, p. 220.  
Another Letter on the same subject, p. 220, 221.  
How the Controversy about Helmont's Assertions, mentioned in the fourth Deficiency of the Legacy of Husbandry may be reconciled, p. 221, 222, 223.  
An observation touching planting of Trees in the Fens, p. 223.  
More observations concerning Fruit-trees, and the great benefit of Furzes for keeping Rats and Mice out of Barn-floors (or other rooms) as likewise Reeks of Corn, and Cheese-racks 224, 225.  
An Estimate of the great quantity of Corn that Pigeons do eat, spoil, and destroy in the County of Cambridge, and pro rata for every shire of England the one with the other, as by due enquiry may be made appear, p. 225, 226, 227.  
Another Estimate by way of confirmation of destructive Pidgeon-houses, p. 227, 228.  
A kind of universal Medicine, or the virtues of chewed bread, p. 228, 229, 230, 231.  
The Scotchway of brewing their strongest and best Ale, p. 231.  
How to make Wine out of Corn, p. 232.  
Another process to make Wine of Corn, p. 232, 233.  
Some Animadversions upon the foregoing process of making Wine of Corn, p. 233.  
Glauberus' promise or undertaking for making Wine out of Corn, p. 234, 235.  
An Advertisement concerning the Mystery of making Wine according to Glaubers undertaking, p. 235.  
How a Meadow about the end of May or beginning of June, before the seeds of Grass are ripe may be used, p. 235.  
How much ground in England may be cured, that through the predomination of some quality in excess will not sward again, or gather a good head of grass for the first 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7 years, when laid down after ploughing, p. 236.  
A Letter of a very ingenuous Gentleman Mr. R.H. concerning the Husbandry of Clover-grass, p. 236, 237.  
Another Letter showing the great benefit arising by Clover-grass to the Commonwealth in general, p. 238, 239.  
Mr. Crutendens Letter and Certificate, p. 239, 240.  
A Letter from Upton 11. Aprilis 1653. Concerning the Husbandry of Clover-seed, 240, 241.  
Sir Rich. weston's more special directions for the best ordering of Clover-grass, p. 242, 243.  
Some doubts and queres concerning the aforesaid directions, propounded in a Letter from Dublin, p. 244.  
The Doubts and Queres in the Letter from Dublin resolved, p. 245, 246.  
An Answer to more Queres concerning the Husbandry of Clover-grass, p. 246, 247.  
Concerning the Threshing of Clover-seed, p. 247.  
An exact Letter written from Dublin, concerning the Husbandry of Clover in Ireland, p. 248.  
An Answer to the foregoing Extract concerning the miscarriage of the Husbandry of Clover in Ireland, p. 248, 249.  
An Extract of another Letter in reference to the foregoing Answer, p. 250.  
More Extracts of Letters concerning French Seeds, of St. Foin and Lucern, p. 250, 251.  
More Queres about Lucern, and the seed called Esparcet, with the Answers of them, p. 252, 253.  
The difference between Esparcet, and the other French seeds, p. 253, 254,  
The last advertisement concerning Esparcet, and the other French seeds, p. 254, 255.  
A Letter of Dr. J. S. relating the husbandry of the French Tares or Fetches, p. 255, 256, 257.  
An observation upon the Husbandry of the French Tares or Fetches, p. 257.  
Another Letter relating the Braband Husbandry of Spurry-seed, p. 257, 258.  
The description of the Hop-clover, or Trefoil, in English, Three-leaved Grass, p. 259, 260.  
Of the long English grass in Wiltshire, p. 260.  
Some Physical uses of Milk, and of curing the black Jaundice, etc. p. 261.  
Observations concerning Oils, p. 262, 263.  
How to make better Butter than ordinary, without setting the Milk for Cream, p. 263.  
Of Chedder Cheeses where they are made, p. 263.  
Objections answered against propositions of Improvement by Agriculture, and other the branches of good Husbandry, p. 264, 265, 266, 267.  
An approved Experiment for the cure of the Fashions in Horses, and the Rot in Sheep, p. 267.  
Another approved Experiment for fatting of Hogs, and preserving or curing of them from Measles, or other diseases, p, 268.  
Another excellent remedy against the Rot, and other diseases in Sheep, and Horses, p. 268.  
Whether a good Lime may be made of Pibble and other stones, whereby land may be dunged and enriched, p. 268, 269.  
The manner of planting Timber-trees in Cornwell, p. 269, 270.  
How to hasten the growth of Timber-trees, p. 270.  
Of Turky-beans to be more frequently planted, p. 271.  
A friendly advice how a hundred and fifty pound may be improved by Husbandry to yield a far greater increase than if the said sum were employed in a way of Usury upon Usury, p. 271, 272.  
Another friendly, and more particular advice, how by a good husbandry of Rape-seed to raise an estate, or provide portions for children, p. 272, 273, 274.  
A Scale of the charges of the Table formerly presented, with the Scale of some other Tables, to demonstrate, that advantageous proposition, p. 275, 276, 277▪ 278.  
A Proposition concerning Rape-seed, wherein the charge is set down with the most, the return with the least, but both in the common way, p. 279, 280.  
A Proposition for sowing of Hemp, whereby also a way is shown to set most of the present poor to work, without prejudice or oppression, or altering any Law already established, p. 280, 281, 282.  
An Answer to five Queres or Objections against the proposition for setting the poor to work upon hemp growing or to be growing in England, p. 282, 283, 284, 285.  
A new Husbandry or Improvement of Rape-seed, p. 285, 286.  
A passage taken out of a Tract against the high rate of Usury, presented to the high Court of Parliament, Anno Dom. 1623. In which the Use for Money was brought down from ten to eight in the hundred; and now humbly recommended to further public consideration, as a special means for advancement of the National Husbandry of this Commonwealth, p. 286, 287, 288, 289.  
A Bank of Lands, or an Improvement of Lands never thought on in former Ages. Begun to be presented upon most rational and demonstrable grounds by Mr. William Potter (a Gentleman of great deserts, and of a most public spirit) which being more fully cleared in all its particulars, and established by public Authority may become a standing and settled means to enrich the whole Nation, and also to remove Taxes, and other public Burdens▪ from p. 289. etc.  
The Conclusion of the Legacy of Husbandry, taken out of Sir Richard Weston, late of Sutton in the County of Surrey, his Legacy to his Sons, with a little alteration of his words.    

AN INTRODUCTION TO THE LEGACY of HUSBANDRY Extracted out of the Surveyors Dialogue, page 223.  
HE that will have profit must use the Means, they must not sit, and give aim, and wish, and repine at other increase: There must be Observation to mark how others thrive, Inclination and Imitation to do the like by endeavour and charge; and if one Experiment fail, try a second, a third, and many: Look into Places and persons, note the Qualities of the Lands of other men, and compare it with your own, and where there is a resemblance; mark what the best Husband doth upon his land, like unto thine, if it prosper, practise it, and follow the example of him that is commonly reputed a thrifty understanding Husbandman. And by this means will Experience grow, and of one Principle of Reason, many Conclusions will proceed.  
And again.  
We have indeed a kind of plodding and common course of Husbandry, and a kind of peevish imitation of the most, who (as Wise men note) are the worst Husbands, who only try what the earth will do of its self, and seek not to help it with such means as Nature hath provided, whereas if men were careful and industrious, they should find that the Earth would yield in recompense for a good Husband's travail and charge centuplum, without corrupt Usury an hundred for one.   

To his worthy and very much Honoured Friend, the Author of the large Letter of Husbandry.  
SIR,  
YOu may perceive by these Additionals to your large Letter, which you written to gratify my desires, that the Public hath been benefited by your Communications, which was all that I intended, by setting you upon that work: nor will you repent of the pains I hope which you have taken this way. For you see that your Open-hartedness in this kind hath provoked another Friend of mine of very public desert in the Commonwealth of Learning, to impart unto me his Observations of the same nature. And although his Annotations now and then, are Animadversions rather than Enlargements, yet it is not unprofitable to the Public, nor disadvantageous to us; that our errors and mistakes (for who can pretend to be without them:) be laid open and rectified. I suppose you would be as loath as I, that any by your means or mine, should be led into a by-way, and instead of gaining become a loser, in making trial of what we offer for his advantage. I could wish that my worthy Friend who hath imparted these his thoughts unto me in the following extemporary Letters, had spared some expressions; & been less censorious against the Persons of some, of whom others have a high and honourable opinion, as Helmont & Glauber▪ but he is to be born with all in this, as we would be borne with all by him and others; in the freedom which we might take of giving our opinions concerning his failings. Also I am confident, that that learned Gentleman is not interessed by any prejudice of passion, or personal disaffection against any of them; but that as a man of a free spirit he doth give his judgement through his zeal and love to every truth as it lies in his apprehension; let every one have his freedom in things which are well meant for the Public; and the best way to rectify one another's mistakes, will be to strive to set each other a Copy, of better and more moderate expressions in the like Cases, wherein there may be a mistake or failing: If we were skilful to provoke one another, only to the affections of love and of good works; and by our own useful experiments discreetly dispensed towards the Public, could draw forth the profitable (but buried) skill of others, unto common use to be imparted unto all; what could not be done for ease of the poor, and the relief of common calamities? Truly, although neither God by his directions how to make use of all his gifts; nor Nature his handmaid by her supplies of things necessary and comfortable for our livelihood are wanting to us. Yet we by the untowardness of our spirits, and the shutting up of our bowels, and the enviousness of our dispositions, bring a scarcity upon ourselves, and upon others, whilst we are not faithful and liberal stewards of our talents, for the benefit of those, for whose sake God hath bestowed them upon us: therefore I shall desire you, as you have begun, to continue in well doing, for you know the promise, that in due time you shall reap the fruit of all your labours, if you faint not. And lest you should imagine, that you are at this distance forgotten by us, give me leave to present you with another task proper for your thoughts in the place where now you are, that the advantages of Nature, which God hath bestowed upon Ireland, may not lie undiscovered, and without improvement, at this season wherein the Replanting of the waste and desolate places of that Country, is seriously laid to heart by many: I shall therefore desire you to look upon this Alphabet of Interrogatories, and consider what Answers your Observations will afford unto them; or what you can learn from the Observations of others to clear them; and as you have opportunity, do, as my Friend from Paris hath done; furnish me with what Gods providence shall send unto your hands, that as I have begun, I may put it out to use: and requite you more plentifully, as I hope I shall be able to do, with the increase, which it shall yield, by this way of Trading, which I have taken up freely to bestow my pains and cost upon others, that all may see the goodness of God in the works of his hands, and have cause to be thankful unto him for the same, and that so many eminent talents which God hath put into your hands, may not (seeing he hath given you a heart to use them) lie idle for want of Objects, and sit Commodities wherewithal to be trading with him, who subscribes himself always, SIR,  
Your very much obliged and assured friend to serve you, Samuel Hartlib.   

A large Letter concerning the Defects and Remedies of English Husbandry, written to Mr. Samuel Hartlib.  
SIR,  
ACcording to your desires, I have sent you what I have observed in France, about the sowing of a Seed called commonly, Saint Foin, which in English is as much to say as Holy-Hay, by reason, as I suppose, of the excellency of it. It's called by Parkinson in his Herbal, where you may see a perfect description of it, Cnobrychis Vulgaris, or Cock's head; because of its flower, or Medick Fetchling: By some it is called Polygala; because it causeth cattle to give abundance of milk. The plant most like unto it, and commonly known, being frequently sown in Gardens, is that which is called French Honeysuckle, and is a kind of it, though not the same. France although it be supposed, to want the fewest things of any Province in Europe: yet it hath no small want of Hay, especially about Paris; which hath necessitated them to sow their dry and barren lands with this seed. Their manner of sowing it, is done most commonly thus: When they intent to let their Corn-lands lie, because they be out of heart, and not situate in a place convenient for manuring, than they sow that land with Oats, and these Seeds together about equal parts: the first year they only mow off their Oats, leaving the Saint Foine to take root and strength that year: Yet they may if they please, when the year is seasonable, mow it the same year it is sown, but it's not the best way to do so: the year following they mow it, and so do seven years together; the ordinary burden is about a load, or a load and a half in good years, upon an Arpent, (which is 100 square Poles or Rods, every Pole or Rod being 20 foot) wuich quantity of ground being nigh a 4th part less than an English Acre; within a league of Paris, is usually Rent at 6 or 7 s. After the land hath rested 7 years; then they usually break it up, and sow it with corn till it be out of heart, and then sow it with Saint Foine as formerly: for it doth not impoverish land, as Annual Plants do; but after seven years, the roots of this plant being great and sweet, as the roots of locorish, do rot, being turned up by the Plough, and enrich the land. I have seen it sown in divers places here in England especially in Cobham-Park in Kent, about 4 miles from Gravesend; where it hath thriven extraordinary well upon dry Chalky Banks, where nothing else would grow: and indeed such dry barren land is most proper for it (as moist rich land for the great Trefoil) or great Clover-Grass (although it will grow indifferently well on all lands) and when the other Grasses and Plants are destroyed by the parching heat of the Sun; because their roots are small and shallow; this flourisheth very much, having a very great root, and deep in the ground, and therefore not easily to be exsiccated; As we have observed Ononis or Restharrow commonly to do on dry lands; but if you sow this on wet land, the water soon corrupts the root of it. This Plant without question would much improve many of our barren lands, so that they might be mown every year once, at least seven years together, and yield excellent fodder for cattle, if so be that it be rightly managed: otherwise it cometh to nothing, as I have seen by experience. I therefore council those who sow this, or the great Trefoil, or Clover-Grass, or any other sort of grasses, that they observe these Rules.  
1. That they do make their ground fine, and kill all sorts of other grasses and plants; otherwise they being Native English will by no means give way to the French ones; especially in this moist climate: and therefore they are to be blamed, who with one ploughing sow this or other seeds; for the grass presently groweth up and choketh them, and so their negligence, and ill Husbandry discourageth themselves and others.  
2. Let them not be too sparing of their seeds; for the more they sow, the closer and thicker they will grow, and presently fully stock the ground, that nothing else can grow. And further the seeds which come from beyond the Seas, are oftentimes old, and much decayed, and therefore the more seed is required.  
3. Not to expect above 7 years' profit by it; for in that time it will decay, and the natural grass will prevail over it; for every plant hath its period: some in one year, some in 2. As Would, Cole, Rape, Wade, etc. Others in 3. as the common Thistle, etc. and therefore after 7 years let them either plough the Land up, and sow it with that same seed again, or with other Grain as they do in France.  
4. Let not sheep or other cattle by't them the first year, that they may be well rooted; for these grasses are far sweeter than the ordinary grasses; and cattle will eat them down, leaving the other; and consequently discourage their growth.  
5. The best way, if men will be at the charge, is to make their ground very fine, as they do when they are to sow Barley, and harrow it even, and then to how these seeds in alone without any other grain, as the Gardiner's do Pease; yet not at so great a distance; but let them make the ranges about a feet breadth one from another, and they shall see their grasses flourish as if they were green Pease, especially if they draw the how through them once or twice that summer to destroy all the weeds and grasses: And if they do thus, the great Clover and other seeds may be mown even twice the first year, as I have experimented in divers small plots of ground.  
There is at Paris likewise another sort of fodder, which they call La Lucern, which is not inferior, but rather preferred before this Saint Foin, for dry & barren grounds; which hath been lately brought thither, and is managed as the former; and truly every day produceth some new things, not only in other Country's, but also in our own. And though I cannot but very much commend these plants unto my Countrymen, knowing that they may be beneficial to this Nation; yet I especially recommend unto them a famous kind of grass growing in Wiltshire, 9 miles from Salisbury, at Maddington, which may better be called one of the wonders of this land, than the Hawthorn-tree at Glassenbury, which superstition made so famous: for divers of the same kind are found elsewhere. You may find this grass briefly described in a Book called Phytologia Britannica, (which lately came forth, and sets down even all the plants which have been found naturally growing in England) Gramen Caninum Supinum Longissimum, which groweth 9 miles from Salisbury, at Mr. Tuckers at Madington: wherewith they fat hogs: and which is 24 foot long, a thing almost incredible; yet commonly known to all that shire. Now without question, if the seed of this grass, be sown in other rich Meadows, it will yield extraordinarily: though perchance not so much, as in its proper place. I wonder that those that live thereabouts, have not tried to fertilise their other Meadows with it: for it is a peculiar species of grass: and though some ingenious men have sound about 90 species of grasses in this Island: yet there is none like to this, that can by any means be brought to such an height and sweetness. And truly I suppose, that the through examination of this grass, is a thing of very great importance, for the improvement of Meadows and Pastures; and it may excel the Great Trefoil, Saint Foin, La-Lucern, or any exotic plant whatsoever. And though I am very unwilling to exceed the bounds of an Epistle; yet I cannot but certify you, wherein the Husbandry of this Nation in other particulars (as I suppose) is greatly deficient, which I will do as briefly as may be: and likewise, how ingenious men may find Remedies for these deficiencies.  

1. Deficieiency concerning Ploughs and Carriages.  First, He would do the honest and painful Husbandman a very great pleasure, and bring great profit to this Nation, who could facilitate the going of the plough, and lighten our ordinary Carriages. I wonder that so many excellent Mechanics, who have beaten their brains about the perpetual Motion and other curiosities, that they might find the best ways to ease all Motions, should never so much as honour the Plough (which is the most necessary Instrument in the world) by their labour and studies. I suppose all know, that it would be an extraordinary benefit to this Country, if that 1 or 2 horses could plough and draw as much as 4 or 6, and further also, that there is no small difference in ploughs, and wagons, when there is scarce any sure rule for the making of them; and every Country, yea almost every County, differs not only in the ploughs; but even in every part. Some with wheels, others without; some turning the Rest (as they call it) as in Kent, Picardy, and Normandy, others not: some having Coulters of one fashion, others of another; others as the Dutch, having an iron wheel or circle for that purpose; some having their shears broad at point, some not; some being round, as in Kent, others flat: some tying their horses by the tail, as in Ireland. So, likewise Wagons and Carts differ: some using 4 wheels, others 2 only; some carrying timber on 2 wheels in a Cart, others with 4 wheels, and a long pole only between, which is the best way: some plough with 2 horses only, as in Norfolk, and beyond Seas, in France, Italy, where I never saw above 3 horses in a plough, and one only to hold and drive: But in Kent I have seen 4, 6, yea 12 horses and oxen; which variety showeth, that the Husbandman, who is ordinarily ignorant in Mechanics, is even at his wits end in this Instrument, which he must necessarily use continually. Surely he should deserve very well of this Nation, and be much honoured by all, that would set down exact Rules for the making of this most necessary, yet contemned Instrument, and for every part thereof: for without question there are as exact Rules to be laid down for this, as for Shipping and other things. And yet in Shipping, how have we within these 6 years' outstripped ourselves, and gone beyond all Nations? for which Art some deserve Eternal honour. And why may we not in this? I know a Gentleman, who now is beyond Seas, where he excels even the Hollanders, in their own business of draining; who promiseth much in this kind, and I think he is able to perform it; I could wish, he were called on to make good his promise. In China, it is ordinary to have wagons to pass up and down without horses or oxen, with Sails as Ships do: and lately in Holland a waggon was framed, which with ordinary Sails carried 30 people 60 English miles in 4 hours. I know some excellent Scholars, who promise much by the means of Horizontal sails (viz) to have 3 or 4 Ploughs together, which shall likewise both sow and harrow without horses or oxen.  
I dare not being ignorant in these high speculations, engage myself to do much thereby; but wish these Gentlemen, whom I know to be extremely ingenious, would attempt something, both for the satisfying of themselves and others. There is an ingenious Yeoman of Kent, who hath two ploughs fastened together very finely, by the which he plougheth two furrows at once, one under another; and so stirreth up the land 12 or 14 inches deep, which in deep land is good. Near Greenwich there liveth an Honourable Gentleman, 
Col. Blunt.  who hath excellent Corn, and yet plougheth his land with one horse, when as usually through Kent they use 4 and 6. These things show that much may be done in this kind; and I hope some in these active times, will undertake and accomplish this work of so great importance.  

2 Deficiency, about diging of land, Setting and Howing in of corn.  There is a Book long since printed, made by Sir Hugh Plattes, (the most curious man of his time) called Adam's Art revived, wherein is showed the great benefit which would accrue to this Nation, if all land which were sit to be digged, were so ordered, and their corn set. Mr. Gab. Plattes likewise hath written much of this kind, and promiseth that men shall reap 100 for one; all charges born which are very great. That this may be true, he bringeth some probable Reasons, supposing that less than a peck of Wheat, will set an Acre, I dare not promise so much as these Gentlemen do, neither can I commend Mr. Gab. plats setting Instrument: For I know there are many difficulties in it, which he himself could never wade through; but concerning digging, and setting, and howing in of corn, these things I dare maintain.  
1. That it is a deficiency in Husbandry, that it is used no more.  
2. That one good digging, because it goeth deeper than the Plough, and buryeth all weeds, killeth the grasses; is as good as three Ploughing, and if the land be mellow, not much more chargeable.  
3. That it would employ many thousand of people, that a third part of the seed might be saved. As I have found by experience, that all the weeds and grasses, might be more easily destroyed thereby, and the ground better accommodated for other crops; and to conclude, the crop considerably greater. Yet thus much I must further say, concerning setting of Grain, That great Beans are even of necessity to be set, and that small Beans in Surrey, and other places, are likewise set with profit, for the reasons above mentioned; that to set Pease (unless Hastevers, and Roncivals) Oats, Barley, is a thing even ridiculous: that Wheat although in divers grounds it may be set with profit: yet to how it in (as the Hardiners' speak) as they do Pease, though not at the same distance, but about a foot the ranges one from another, is better than setting for these Reasons.  
1. Because to set Corn is an infinite trouble and charge; and if it be not very exactly done, which children neither can nor will do, and these must be the chief setters; will be very prejudicious.  
2. If worms, frost, ill weather, or fowls, destroy any part of your seed, which they will do; your crop is much impaired.  
3. The ground cannot be so well weeded, and the mould raised about the roots by the how. Which 3 inconveniences are remedied by the other way.  
Further, I dare affirm, that after the ground is digged or ploughed and harrowed: even it's better to how Wheat in, then to sow it after the common way; because that the weeds may be easily destroyed by running the how through it in the Spring, and the mould raised about the roots of the Corn, as the Gardiner's do with Pease, it would save much Corn in dear years, and for other Reasons before mentioned. Yea, it is not more chargeable; for a Gardener will how in an Acre for 5 s. and after in the Spring for less money run it over with a how, and cut up all the weeds, and raise the mould: which charges are not great, and you shall save above a bushel of seed, which in dear years is more worth than all your charges.  
Further, 1 s. 6 d. or 2 s. an Acre for the sowing and harrowing of an Acre in Kent, is accounted a reasonable price, and may be saved; but if any fear charges, let him use a Dril-Plough, with one horse, which is commonly known at Fulham, and about London. I therefore cannot but commend the howing in of wheat, as an excellent piece of good Husbandry, whether the ground be digged or ploughed; not only because it saveth much Corn, employeth much people, and it is not chargeable; but it also destroyeth all weeds, fitteth grounds for after crops and causeth a greater increase, and in my apprehension is a good Remedy against Smut and Mildew. There is an Ingenious Italian, who wondereth how it cometh to pass, that if one setteth a Grain of Corn, as Wheat, Barley, etc. it usually produceth 300 or 400. yea, 1000, 2000, as I have tried: yet if you sow Wheat after the ordinary way, 6 or 8 for one is accounted a good crop: what becometh of all the Corn that is sown, when as the 50th part, if it do grow, would be sufficient? For answer to this.  
1. I say much Corn is sown which nature hath destinated for the Hens and Chickens, being without any considerable vegetative faculty.  
2. Worms, Frosts, Floods, Crows and Larks, (which every one doth not consider) do devour not a little.  
3. Weeds, as Poppy, May-weed, and the grasses growing with the Corn do destroy much.  
Lastly, When Corn is so sown after the ordinary manner, much is buried in the furrows; especially if the ground be grazy: much is thrown on heaps in holes, and consequently starve and choke one another. Most of these Inconveniencies, are to be remedied by this way of setting and howing in of Corn.  

3. Deficiency, concerning Gardening.  Gardening, though it be a wonderful improver of lands, as it plainly appears by this, that they give extraordinary rates for land, (viz.) from 40 s, per Acre to 9 pound, and dig and how, and dung their lands, which costeth very much; Yet I know divers, which by 2 or 3 Acres of land maintain themselves and family, and employ other about their ground; and therefore their ground must yield a wonderful increase, or else it could not pay charges; yet I suppose there are many Deficiencies in this calling.  
1. Because it is but of few years standing in England, & therefore not deeply rooted, nor well understood. About 50 years ago, about which time Ingenuities first began to flourish in England; This Art of Gardening, began to creep into England, into Sandwich, and Surrey, Fulham, and other places.  
Some old men in Surrey, where it flourisheth very much at present; report, That they knew the first gardiner's that came into those parts, to plant Cabbages, cauliflowers, and to sow Turnips, Carrots, and Parsnips, to sow Raith, (or early ripe) Pease, Rape, all which at that time were great rarities, we having few, or none in England, but what came from Holland, and Flanders. These Gardiner's with much ado procured a plot of good ground, and gave no less than 8 pound per Acre; yet the Gentleman was not content, fearing they would spoil his ground, because they did use to dig it. So ignorant were we of Gardening in those days.  
2. Many parts of England are as yet wholly ignorant. 
Gravesend.  Within these 20 years, a famous Town within less than 20 miles off London, had not so much as a Mess of Pease, but what came from London, where at present Gardening flourisheth much, I could instance divers other places, both in the North and West of England, where the name of Gardening, and Howing is scarcely known, in which places a few Gardiner's might have saved the lives of many poor people, who have starved these dear years.  
3. We have not Gardening-ware in that plenty and cheapness (unless perhaps about London) as in Holland, and other places, where they not only feed themselves with Gardiner's ware, but also fat their Hogs and Cows.  
4. We have as yet divers things from beyond Seas, which the Gardiner's may easily raise at home, though nothing nigh so much as formerly; for in Queen Elizabeth's time, we had not only our Gardiner's ware from Holland, but also Cherries from Flaunders; Apples from France; Saffron, Liquorish from Spain; Hops from the Low-countrieses: And the Frenchman who writes the Treasure Politic saith, That it's one of the great Deficiencies of England, that Hops will not grow, whereas now it is known, that Liquorish, Saffron, Cherries, Apples, Pears, Hops, Cabbages of England, are the best in the world. Notwithstanding we as yet want many things: as for example: We want Onnions, very many coming to England from Flaunders, Spain, etc. Madder for dying cometh from Zurick-Sea by Zealand; we have Red Roses from France, Annice-seeds, Fennel-seeds, Cumine, Caraway, Rice from Italy, which without question would grow very well in divers moist lands in England; yea Sweet-Marjoram, Barley, and further, Gromwell-seed, and Virga Aurea, and Would, from the Western Isles, though they grow in our hedges in England.  
Lastly, Gardening is deficient in this particular: that we have not Nurseries sufficient in this land of Apples, Pears, Cherries, Vines, Chestnuts, Almonds, etc. but Gentlemen are necessitated to send to London some hundred miles for them.  
Briefly, for the advancement of this ingenuous calling, I only desire, that Industrious Gentlemen would be pleased to encourage some expert workmen into the places where they live, and to let them land at a reasonable rate, and if they be poor and honest, to lend a little stock: they will soon see the benefit that will redound, not only to themselves, but also to all their Neighbours especially the poor, who are not a little sustained by the Gardiner's labours and ingenuities.  

4. Deficiency in Smut and Mildew.  4. Our Husbandry is deficient in this, that we know not how to remedy the infirmities of our growing Corn; especially Smut and Mildew, to instance in these two only, which oftentimes bring great calamities to these Nations: Smut in wet years, Mildews in dry. These distempers in Corn, are not only in our Country; 
Helmont.  but also in other places. A learned Author saith, that Smuttiness of Corn, which maketh it smell like a Red Herring, was not known in France, till about 1530. at which time the great foul disease began to break forth in those parts very hotly, which he conceiveth from hence to have some original; as also the camp-disease. Mildews are very great in the Kingdom of Naples, which oft stick to the scythes of those that mow grass and corn: and (God be thanked) we are not troubled with Locusts, which is a great flying Grass-hopper, nor Palmer-worms, which is a kind of great black Caterpillar, (which I have seen destroying much in New-England) nor with great hail in Summer, nor with great drought, which stifleth the ear in the stalk; which Calamities in hot Countries, do very oft totally destroy the honest and patient Husbandman's labours: neither are we troubled with extreme colds, which in New-England and other cold Countries, do oft destroy the Corn. But to return to our purpose.  
And first, briefly to show you my opinion concerning the Causes of Smuttinesse. I desire not to fetch Causes afar off, and to tell you of the sad Conjunctions of Mars and Saturn, (for I think Quae suprae nos, belong not to us) when as we have enough at home: This is certain, that there are many evident causes of this corruption of Corn.  
1. A moist season about Kerning-time: which moisture either corrupteth the roots of the Plant, or the nourishment of it, or the seed in its Embryo: or perhaps in some measure all these.  
2. Low, moist, foggy ground, for the reasons above mentioned.  
3. Dunged land. In Vineyards it's observed, that dung causeth more increase in quantity, but less in goodness, so that the ill-taste of the dung may easily be discerned; because wine hath an high taste, without question the same happeneth to other Plants, although it be not so easily discerned; for the ferment or ill odour of the dung, cannot be overmastered by the Plants, as we see also in Animals, that corrupt diet causeth unsavoury tastes in the flesh: so hogs in Newfoundland, where they are nourished by fish, may by their tastes be called rather Sea-porpusses, than Land-swine.  
4. The sowing of Smutty Corn oft produceth Smuttyness; the son like unto the father: I account Smutty Corn an imperfect or sick Grain, and suppose that by a Microscope the imperfection may be discerned.  
Lastly, The sowing of the same seed oft on the same field, causeth Smuttyness; because that nitrous juice, which is convenient for the nourishment of the Grain, hath been exhausted in the precedent years; and therefore it is excellent Husbandry every year to change the species of Grain, and also to buy your Seed-Corn, from places far distant. I am informed of a Gentleman, who did sow some Wheat which came from Spain, where the Grain is usually very hard and flinty, and as it were transparent, and far weightier than ours (as it appeareth by a measure at Amsterdam, which holdeth about 3 bushels, and in our Wheat of the Northern parts weigheth 160, whereas the Southern Corn weigheth sometimes 180, 200, 220.) and had a crop beyond expectation.  
The usual Cures of Smuttyness, besides those mentioned before, are these  
1. To lime your ground, which warmeth and drieth the Land.  
2. To lime your Corn, which is done thus. First, Slack your lime, and then moisten your Corn or lime, and stir them together, till your Grain be as big as a small Pease. This liming preserveth Corn likewise from birds and worms, and is found a very good Remedy against this disease: others make a strong lie with common salt, and steep their Corn in it all night, and then draw away their lie for further use; which seldom faileth of its desired effect. Whether this strong lie doth by its corrosiveness, mortify the weak and imperfect Corn, so that it will not grow; Or whether it be a Remedy, to cure the imperfections thereof, is worth the enquiry? I suppose this lie doth exsicoate the superfluous humidity, which is the cause of this corruption. If Corn be brought into the Barn very Smutty, in Kent they usually thresh it on dry floors, planked with boards; by which means, the Smuttyness is beaten away, and sticketh not to the Grain, only a little blackness appeareth about the eye, but if it be threshed on a moist floor, the blackness sticketh to the Grain, which therefore appeareth dark, and is sold at a lower rate to the Bakers.  
Mildew is without question an unctuous dew, which descendeth from above about Midsummer; it aboundeth in dry years, as smuttiness in moist. I cannot think that there is ordinarily any Malgnity in this dew, but it produceth its effect by manifest causes, viz. from an oily viscuous quality, which stoppeth the pores of the husk wherein the Wheat lieth, and depriveth it from the Air, and consequently from nourishment: for the Air is the life of all things. I have heard, and do believe, that if you streak any ear of Wheat with oil, it will produce the same effect. I am sorry that I never tried, that I might better understand the nature of this sad calamity which often undoeth the Industrious Husbandman: and causeth great scarcity in this Isle. It is to be observed further, that Wheat only suffereth considerable damage by Mildew; because it lieth in a chaffy husk, which other Grains do not. The Grounds most subject to Mildew, are these.  
1. Those that are enclosed with Trees and high Hedges. And truly this is the only great Inconveniency I find by enclosures.  
2. Low Valleys: I have seen very oft in the same field, the banks fine bright Corn; and all the lower parts, though greater in straw; yet little worth by reason of the Mildew.  
3. Dung made of straw, I have observed to dispose much to Mildew, and Sheep's dung to be a kind of Antidote against it: as also Pigeons-dung; because, as I conceive, these 2 last sorts abound much in Niter, which produceth a firm, hard, bright Corn, not easily to be putrefied; but the other being more oily and Sulphureous, causeth a dark Spongy Corn, soon corruptible. And 2. because straw and dung is a part of the same kind corrupted, which is always in some measure hurtful to the same species, both in Animals, and all Vegetables, and therefore rotten sticks, or the earth proceeding from them, is found hurtful to the roots of trees; and trees will hardly grow, where Roots of other trees have formerly been corrupted.  
The Remedies for this Accident, briefly are these. (Not to speak of Bees, who questionless make most of their Honey from these Honeys or Mildews: for they gather very little, in comparison of that which falleth.)  
1. The best way is to cut down the trees about your ground, and your hedges low, that the wind may ventilate your Corn.  
2. To sow early; that your Corn may be full Kerned, 
Sir Cheney Culp.  before these Mildews fall. I am informed, that an Ingenious Knight in Kent, did for curiosity sow Wheat in all months of the year, and that the Corn sown in July, did produce such an increase, that it is almost incredible; and truly I think it a great fault in many places that they sow late, for many reasons: I am sure in France, they usually sow before Michaelmas.  
3. Some use (and with good profit) to draw a line over their Corn, and to strike off the Mildew, before it be inspissated by the Sun; This aught especially to be done before Sunrising: two men in an hour will easily run over an Acre; the Mildews usually fall like a thick fog, or a Misty rain; if you go to your Bees, you will soon perceive it by their extraordinary labour, very early in the morning.  
4. The use of a kind of bearded Wheat, is an excellent Remedy: for the beard shooteth off the dew, that it doth not so easily insinuate itself into the ear, and likewise causeth the ear to shake by the least wind. There is a kind of Wheat in Buckinghamshire called Red-straw-Wheat, which is much commended: it's a strong-stalked Wheat, and doth not soon lodge, and therefore excellent for Rank Land where Corn is apt to lodge, and consequently to Mildew; but I question whether it hath any property against Mildew. This I am very confident of, that if this Wheat, or any other, were without the Chaffy husks exposed bare to the Air; as Barley and Rye are, Wheat would not be afflicted with Mildew. Perhaps such Grain may be found by diligent enquiry. I have casually picked out of a Wheat-field some stalks, which had two ears on them: and though Barley usually hath but 2 ranges in the South of England, yet I have seen some sorts with 4, 6, and there are many great varieties in grains not yet discovered. Truly if any knoweth better ways then these, how to cure this Malady of Mildew, 
5. Deficiency concerning the planting of Apples, Pears, Cherries, & Plums.  he is much to blame, if he do not publish it for the good of his Countrymen.  
I will not here set down the divers manners of Grafting and Inoculations, which nevertheless is an Art absolutely necessary in Planting; for every Book of Husbandry doth show it, and every Gardener can teach it those who are desirous to learn it: Neither will I set down all the sorts of Apples, Pears, Cherries, Plums, etc. For it would be too tedious a discourse; and Mr. Parkinson hath already very excellently done it, in his Book called Paradisus Terrestis, where at leisure you may read it. I will only point briefly at the Deficiencies, which I find in this part of Husbandry, and the best ways to Remedy them.  
1. I say, that it is a great Deficiency in England, that we have not more Orchards planted. It's true, that in Kent, and about London, and also in Glocestershire, Hereford, and Worcester, there are many gallant Orchards, but in other Country's, they are very rare and thin: but if there were as many more, even in any Country, they would be very profitable. I know in Kent, that some advance their ground even from 5 s. per Acre, to 5 pound by this means, and so proportionally; and if I should relate what I have heard by divers concerning the profit of a Cherry-Orchard, about Sittenburn in Kent, you would hardly believe me; yet I have heard it by so many, that I believe it to be true: Namely, that an Orchard of 30 Acres of Cherries, produced in one year above 1000 pound, but now the Trees are almost all dead; it was one of the first Orchards planted in Kent. Mr. Cambden reporteth, that King Henry the Eighth's Gardener, first began to plant Flemish Cherries in those parts, which in his time did spread into 32 other Parishes, and were at that time sold at greater rates than now; yet I know that 10, or 15 pound an Acre hath been given for Cherries; more for Pears, and Apples.  
2. There is a great Deficiency in the ordering of Orchards, in that they are not well pruned, but full of Moss, Misletoe, and Suckers, and oftentimes the ground is packed too thick of Trees; for they should stand at least 20 foot asunder; neither will ill husbands bestow dunging, digging, or any other cost on Orchards, which if they did, might pay half their Rents in some places. One told me for a Secret, a Composition for to make Trees bear much and excellent fruit, which was this: First, in an old Tree, to split his root; then to apply a Compost made of Pigeons dung, Lees of wine, or stale Urine, and a little Brimstone, (to destroy the worms) it hath some probability of truth: for by experience I know that a bushel of Pigeons dung hath caused a Tree to grow and bear, which for divers years before stood at a stand; but concerning the splitting the roots, I know not what to say. Some old Authors affirm this aught to be done; because that the roots may as well be hidebound, as other parts of the Tree, and not able to attract his nourishment, and when the Root is split, it will speedily send forth divers small fibrous roots; which are the principal Attractors. It were good that some would give us an account exact of this Experiment. But some will object against Orchards, that they spoil much ground, and therefore aught to be planted only in Hedges. To this I answer.  
1. That Plumtrees and Damsius may very well be planted in hedges, being ordinarily thorny Plants; this is used very much in Surrey and Kent, where the Plums usually pay no small part of their Rent; yet I never saw in these Southern parts of England, any Apples or Pears thrive in an Hedge, unless a Crab, or a Wilden, or some Sweeting of little worth. How they thrive in Herefordshire, and those places, I know not.  
2. The Inconveniences of Orchards planted at 20 or 30 foot distance, is not worth speaking of: for this is the usual course in Kent, when they plant any ground, they exactly place them in rank and file, and then plough their Lands many years, and sow them with Corn, till the Orchard beginneth to bear fruit; then they lay them down for pasture, which pasture is not considerably sour; but hath this advantage above other Pastures.  
1. That it is sooner grown by 14 days in the Spring than the Meadows, and therefore very serviceable.  
2. In Parching Summers here is plenty, when other places have scarcity.  
3. There are great shelters for cattle, especially sheep, who will in those places, in great Snows scrape up meat, which in other places they cannot do: and if the pasture were sour, yet the loss is not great; for it will be a convenient place for the Hogs to run in, who must have a place for that purpose, where there are no Commons.  
4. I say, that the Benefits are so many by Orchards, that you ought not like an ungrateful man to thrust them up to the hedge: for they afford curious walks for pleasure, food for cattle, both in the Spring early, and also in the parching Summer, and nipping snowy Winter: They afford fuel for the fire, and also shades for the heat, physic from the sick, refreshment for the sound, plenty of food for man, and that not of the worst, and dink also even of the best, and all this without much labour, care or cost, who therefore can justly open his mouth against them.  
3. Deficiency is, that we do not improve many excellent Fruits, which grow amongst very well, and that we have as yet many fruits from beyond Seas, which will grow very well with us. I pass by the general and great Ignorance, that is amongst us, of the variety of Apples, of which there are many sorts which have some good and peculiar uses; most men contenting themselves with the knowledge of half a score of the best, thinking the virtues of all the rest are comprehended in them: as also of the variety of Pears, which are incredibly many. A Friend of mine near Gravesend, hath lately collected about 200 species. I know another in Essex, (Mr. Ward) who hath nigh the same number. I hear of another in Worcestershire, not inferior to these. In Northamtonshire, I know one, who hath likewise collected very many. So that I dare boldly say, there are no less in this Island than 500 species; some commended for their early ripeness; some for excellent tastes; some for beauty; others for greatness; some for great bearers; others for good Bakers; some for long lasters, others for to make Perry, etc. But to our purpose: I say many rare fruits are neglected: To instance.  
1. In the Small-nut or filbert, which is not much inferior to the best and sweetest Almonds.  
2. The great Damsin or Pruin-plum, which groweth well, and beareth full in England.  
3. Almonds, which groweth well and beareth good fruit, as I have seen divers bushels on one tree in my Brother's Orchard.  
4. Walnuts, which is not a fruit to be despised.  
5. Vines and Mulberries, but of these presently in another place. I might likewise add Currants, Raspeses, of which excellent drinks may be made.  
6. Quinces, Of the which I cannot but tell you that a Gentleman at Prichenel in Essex, who had a Tree from beyond Sea, hath the best in England, and hath made above 30 pound of a small piece of ground planted with them, as I have heard from his own Wife's mouth. And therefore it is by reason of our ill Husbandry, that we have Quinces from Flaunders, Small-nuts from Spain, Prunes from France, and also Walnuts; and Almonds from Italy, and Chestnuts (which I had almost forgot) from Portugal. And now I cannot but digress a little, to tell you a strange and true story, with my opinion of it. In divers places of Kent, as at and about Gravesend, in the Country and elsewhere, very many of the prime Timbers of their old Barns and Houses are of Chestnut-wood, and yet there is scarce a Chestnut-Tree within 20 miles of that place, and the people altogether ignorant of such Trees. This showeth that in former times those places did abound with such timber; for people were not so foolish surely in former times, to run up and down the World, to procure such huge massey Timbers for Barns and such Buildings when as there was plenty of Oaks and Elms, at their doors: And further, it showeth, that these Trees will grow again with us to a great bigness. This putteth into my mind the Story of the Moor-logs, which are found in divers places of the North of England in Moors many foot deep; which logs are long and black, and appear to be a kind of Fir or Pine; and yet in those places, people are altogether ignorant of these Trees, the Country not producing any of these species. The first Story of Kent, which I know to be true, causeth me to wonder the less at the latter: for I see that a species of wood, may be destroyed, even totally in a place. And  
2. I know, that in Virginia and New-England, that Pines, and Firs and Cedars, do grow wonderfully thick in such Moors or Swamps, and being light wood, and easily wrought, they are continually used, while they last, for buildings. Further, I suppose these Moors are Commons, to the which the poor have used to resort for siring, and how soon great woods will be consumed by them, every one making what havoc he pleaseth, all men know. As concerning their being so deep in the ground, and their blackness; I suppose that when wood was abundant in those places, every one did cut what they pleased, and left what was not for their turns, which being in moist places, was soon glutted with moisture, and made ponderous; by which means it soon buried itself, as Ships do, on Quicksand, or perhaps the Turf (which hath a peculiar faculty vegetative, for where it is exhausted, it soon groweth again) in time hath grown over them; the people permitting it, because that wood, once sobbed in wet, is of little use, as we see by Piles on the Marshes-side, scarce any man vouchsafing to carry them home. The blackness of this wood proceedeth, as I suppose, from the sooty fume, or evaporation of the black turf, (which endeavoreth, as all earth's do) to reduce all things into its own nature; which though it be not able fully to accomplish; yet it introduceth divers dispositions, and qualities, as blackness in the Wood Some suppose, that these Moor-logs have lain there ever since the flood, with whom I will not contend; seeing that any wood, if it be kept from the Air continually moist or dry, will endure even thousands of years without putrefaction.  
6. Deficiency, 
The 6 deficiency concerning not improving our Fruits.  is the Not-improving of our Fruits for the best ends and purposes. Normandy, which produceth but little wine, maketh abundance of Cider, Perry, which they estimate equally to wine, if it be made of good fruit. The ordinary Perry is made of Choaky Pears, very juicy, which grow along by the highway-sides, which are not to be eaten raw. In Biseay in Spain, where wine is scarce, they make Cider of a certain sweet Apple, which hath a little bitterness in it, and is like to our snouting, and the Cider is very good. And truly here in England, if we would make Cider and Perry of the best sorts of Fruits, which is rarely done, (for we think any fruit good enough for that purpose) we might make drinks, no ways inferior to the French-wines, which are usually spoiled before they come over the Seas to us, their Spirits soon evapourating. There are two ways of making Cider and Perry: one, by bruising and beating them, and then presently to put them into a vessel to ferment or work (as it is usually called) of themselves: The other way is to boil the juice with some good Spices, by which the rawness is taken away, and then to ferment it with some yeast, if it work not of itself, this is the best way: and I have tasted Cider thus made of an excellent delicate taste. Neither let any complain of the windiness; for it is only want of use: When I had for two or three years continually drunk wine beyond Sea, the strongest Beer for two or three weeks was as windy to me, as Cider will be to any; and afterwards when I went to Paris, the wine of that place was as troublesome as English beer for a little time: how much wine might be saved, and also Malt if Englishmen did take these good courses, which other Nations do, and consequently how much advantage would this Island reap thereby? If I were an housekeeper in the Country, I would make excellent Beer, Ale, Cider, Perry, Metheglin, and Wine, of our own grapes, and if my Friends would not drink these, they should drink water, or go away a thirst: I would scorn to honour France so much as men do usually; and the Spaniard and Italian should not laugh at us, and say that we can as well be without Bread, as their Wines, Currant, etc. Thus may many more excellent Drinks be made out of our Fruits: not to speak of those which are made of our Grain, as Barley, Wheat, etc. yet I must tell you, that I know an Ingenious man, who can without malting Barley, make a Drink not inferior to Wine, and a greater quantity of Aquavitae out of them, and with less cost, then by the ordinary way, by a peculiar Fermentation of his own; which time will discover. There is another Ingenious man, who out of Damsins and other fat and sweet Plums, can make a Drink not inferior to the best Wines, and abundance of Aquavitae. Many Ladies know how to make Cherry, Raspes-wines; and Sir Hugh Plattes in his Closet for Ladies, discloseth many Secrets of this kind; as also for Conserves, Marmalades, which are things both delightful and profitable. I have a kinsman, who can even out of Blackberries, make a very pleasant Drink, which curiosity he is unwilling to publish. Glauber an excellent Chemist hath divers secrets of this kind, even to the advancing of Haws, Heps, or Canker-berries, Slows, to excellent Aqua-vitae's, Drinks, Vinegers, which he himself first invented. In Russia in the spring-time, it's an usual custom to pierce the Bark of the Birch-trees, 
Helmont.  which at that time will weep much liquor, and yet like children be little the worse, this the poor ordinarily drink for necessity, it's a pleasant healthful drink; and also the rich men, because it's an excellent Presevative against the stone.  
The Means to advance this profitable and pleasant Work are these.  
1. To advance Nurseries of all sorts of Apples, Pears, Plums, Cherries, which Gentlemen may do for a small matter, and then plant out these Trees, when they are grown great enough. The best and cheapest ways to raise all Nursery Wares, is done thus. Plums may be raised either of stones, which when you have eaten the plums, may be presently pricked into the ground, or by slips, which you will find about the old Trees: Apples may be raised from Kernels, (Crab-Kernels are the best) which ought to be preserved in dry sand, till the spring, lest they grow mouldy: or Crab-stalke may be fetched out of the woods, and grafted. Some Trees, as Sweetings, coddlings, Quinces, will grow very well of slips. Cherries are very well raised by stones, (the Black-Cherries are the best) which so soon as you have eated them, are to be howen into Beds made very fine, the ranges a foot distant; beware lest you let them heat, and take heed of the Mouse. I have seen Cherry-stones and Apple-kernels grow two foot and a half in one year; and consequently in few years they would be fit to be transplanted. The Art of Grafting, Inoculating a Gentleman will learn in two hours.  
2. For the advancing of Ingenuities in this kind, as that making of Vinous-Drinks out of Apples, Plums, etc. I counsel all Ingenious Gentlemen to try divers experiments in these kinds; with these Cautions.  
1. That he attempt not great quantities at first, which perchance will be chargeable and troublesome; for by a Gallon he may have as much certainty, as by a Hogshead.  
2. Not to be discouraged, if they succeed not well at first dash: for certainly there are many Ingenuities in these fruits which time will discover.  
3. Proceed by Fermentation: for every liquor which will ferment, hath a vinous spirit in it, and without Fermentation, even the best fruits will have none.  
Lastly, Fermentation is done either in liquido, or humido; and herein consists some Mystery. I have forgot to speak of Apricoks, Peaches, Melicotons, which are fine pleasant fruits, yet very dangerous; and therefore called by the Italians, Mazz-francese, that is, Kill-Frenchman; and wish Ladies, and others to take heed of surfeiting by these.  
I cannot without much tediousness, relate the divers sorts of Vines, 
The 7 deficiency concerning Vines.  which are even infinite; Rome having in it usually, 40 or 50 sorts of Vines; and all very good: Other places of Italy, Spain, France, have also great varieties; I therefore pass them by, as also the manner of managing them, because it is described in the Countrey-Farm, and also by Bonovil a Frenchman, who at the Command of King James, wrote a short Treatise of Vines and Silkworms, for the instruction of the Plantations of Virginia. I shall only according to my Method show you the Deficiencies amongst us in this particular Plant, and the best Remedies for it.  
And first, although I think that the Vine is the great blessing of God, which Hot Country's especially enjoy, as temperate Country's do Milk, Butter, Cheese, in abundance, and the coldest and Barrenest Fowl, and Fish, in an incredible number; God of his goodness distributing some peculiar blessings to every Country: Notwithstanding I dare say, it's probable, that Vineyards have formerly flourished in England, and that we are to blame, that so little is attempted to revive them again. There are many places in Kent called by the names of Vineyards, and the grounds of such a Nature, that it seemeth probable they have been such. I hear further by divers people of credit, that by Records it appeareth, that the Tithes of wine in Glocestershire, was in divers Parishes considerably great; and remaining about 300 years in their possession & Mr. Cambden writes so much; as also William of Malmesbury who lived 600 years since. But at length Gascony coming into the hands of the English, from whence cometh the most of the strong French Wine, called Highc-Country-wine, and customs being small, wine was imported into England from thence, better and cheaper than we could make it, and it was thought convenient to discourage Vineyards here, that the greater trade might be driven with Gascoine, and many ships might find employment thereby.  
Some Astrologers have conceited, that the Earth being grown older, and therefore colder hath caused the Sun to descend many thousand miles lower to warm and cherish it, and one Argument which they bring for this opinion is, that Vines and Silkworms are found in those Country's, wherein former times they were unknown: But if these fond men had considered the good Husbandry in these times, with the blessing of God on it, they had not run into such foolish imaginations. This is true indeed, that the Roman Soldiers, who had Alsatia given them to live in, which is one of the best and most Southern places of Germany, mutined, because they thought it so cold, that Vines would not grow there, & that therefore they should be deprived of that delectable liquor; whereas we find at this present day Vines flourishing many hundred miles more toward the North, both in France, Lorain, etc. and Germany; and that they are crept down even to the Latitude of England for the Rhenish-wines grew within a degree of the West-Southern places of this Isle, and Paris is not two degrees South of us, yet Vines grow threescore miles on this side Paris, as by Beaumond, Beauvats, etc. by the way of Picardy near 20 leagues; as also by the way of Pontoyse through Normandy, at Arts, 35 leagues from Paris, and 5 from Diep; yea the Vines of these places are the most delicate; for what wine is preferred before the Neat Rhenish for Ladies, and at Table; and truly in my opinion, though I have traveled twice through France; yet no wine pleased me like Vin D'ache, and of Paris especially about Rueill, which is a very fine brisk wine, and not fuming up to the head, and Inebriating as other wines: I say therefore that it is very probable, that if Vines have stepped out of Italy into Alsatia, from them to these places, which are even as far North as England, and yet the Wines there are the most delicate, that they are not limited and bound there. For an hundred miles more or less causeth little alteration in heat or cold, and some advantages which we have will supply that defect. But not to insist too long on probabilities, I say, that here in England some Ingenious Gentlemen usually make wine very good, long lasting, without extraordinary labour and costs. To instance in one, who in Great Chart, in the Wild of Kent, a place very moist and cold, 
Sir Peter Ricard.  yearly maketh 6 or 8 Hogsheads, which is very much commended by divers who have tasted it, and he hath kept some of it two years, as he himself told me, 
Captain Tucker.  and hath been very good: Others likewise in Kent do the same: and lately in Surrey a Gentlewoman told me, that they having many Grapes, which they could not well tell how to dispose of, she, to play the good Housewife, stamped them to make verjuice; but two months after drawing it forth, they found it very fine brisk-wine, clear like Rockwater, and in many other places such experiments have been made. I therefore desire Ingenious men to endeavour the raising of so necessary and pleasant a commodity: especially when French-Wine is so dear here, and I suppose is likely to be dearer; I question not, but they shall find good profit and pleasure in so doing, and that the State will give all encouragements to them: and if the French Wine pay Excize and Customs, and the Wines here be toll-free, they will be able to afford them far cheaper, than the French can theirs, and supply the whole Isle, if they proceed according to these Rules.  
1. To choose the best sorts of Grapes, which are most proper for this Isle, and though there are many sorts of Grapes amongst gardiner's, yet I commend four sorts especially to them; and I desire that they be very careful in this particular: for it is the foundation of the work; if you fail in this, you fail in all; for I know that Burdeaux-Vines, which bear very great Grapes, make verjuice only at Paris, and that the tender Orleans-Vine doth not thrive there.  
The first sort is the Parsely Vine, or Canada-grape; because it first came from those parts, where it grows naturally; and though the Country be intolerably cold; yet even in the woods without manuring, it so far ripeneth his fruits, that the Jesuits make wine of it for their Mass; and Racineè (which is the Juice of the Grape newly expressed, and boiled to a Syrup, and is very sweet and pleasant) for their Lent-provision, as you may read in their Relations: and this Vine seemeth to be made for these Northern Countries, because it hath its leaves very small and jagged, as if it were on purpose to let in the Sun, and it ripeneth sooner than other Grapes, as I have observed in Oxford-Graden.  
2. Sort of Vine is the Rhenish-Grape; for it groweth in a temperate Country, not much hotter in the Summer then England; and the wine is excellent as all know.  
3. Sort is the Paris-grape; which is much like the temper of England, only a little hotter in Summer: this Grape beareth a small bunch close set together, very hardly to endure frosts, and other inconveniences, and is soon ripe; so that the Vintage of Paris, is sooner ended then that of Orleans or Bordeaux; and though it be not so delicate to the taste, as some other Grapes: yet it maketh an excellent brisk wine.  
4. Sort is the small Muskadel; which is a very fine pleasant Grape, both to eat, and to make wine. In Italy it usually groweth against their houses walls, and of this they make a small pleasant wine, a Month or two before the ordinary Vintage. It is a tender plant in respect of the other Vines in the fields: these Vines I know are the most convenient for this Isle; because they bear small bunches, and Grapes soon ripen, and are hardy to endure frosts and ill weather.  
2. To choose convenient places. For this end, I counsel them, First, to plant Vines on the Southside of their dwelling Houses, Barns, Stables, and Outhouses. The Gentleman of Kent, whom I mentioned before, useth this course: and to keep the Vines from hurting his tiles, and that the wind may not wrong his Vines, he hath a frame made of poles, or any kind of wood, about a foot from the tiles, to the which he tieth the Vines; by this means his Vines having the reflection of the yard, sides of the houses, and tiles do ripen very well, and bear much; so that one old Vine, hath produced nigh a Hogshead of wine in one year: and I wish all to take this course; which is neither chargeable, nor troublesome, but very pleasant; and if all in this Island would do thus, it's incredible, what abundance of wine might be made, even by this petty way.  
2. If that any Gentleman will be at the charge of making a Vineyard, let him choose a fine sandy warm hill, open to the Southeast, rather than to the South-West: for though the South-West seemeth to be hotter; yet the Southeast ripeneth better, as I have seen in Oxford Garden; because the Southeast is sooner warmed by the Sun in the morning; and the South-West winds, are the winds which blow most frequently, and bring rain, which refrigerate the plants: and such a place is very requisite; for in other places Vines do not thrive, even in France: for if you travel betwixt Paris and Orleans, which is above 30 leagues, yet you shall scarcely see a Vineyard, because it is a plain Champion-Countrey. So likewise betwixt Fontarabia to Bordeaux, in the Southern parts of France, for an hundred miles together; because the Land is generally a barren sandy Plain, where only Heath abounds, and Pinetrees, out of which they make Turpentine and resin, by wounding of them; and Tar and Pitch, by the burning of them: and if any find such a fine warm hill, and do dung and fence it well, he hath a greater advantage of most of the Vineyards of France by this conveniency, than they have of our Isle, by being an hundred miles more South; for most of their Vineyards are in large fields not enclosed, on land that is stony, and but indifferently warm. But some will say, that wet weather destroys us. It's true, that the wet will destroy all things; Sheep, Corn, etc. yet no man will say, that therefore England will not produce and nourish these Creatures; and if extraordinary wet years come, they spoil even the Vines in France: but take ordinary years and our moisture is not so great, (though some abuse us, and call England Matula Coeli) but the Vines, especially those I have mentioned before, will come to such perfection as to make good wine: and if extraordinary rains fall: yet we may help the immaturity by Ingenuity, as I shall tell you anon: or at worst make vinegar or verjuice, which will pay costs.  
Further these advantages we have of France.  
1. This Isle is not subject to nipping frosts in May, as France is; because we are in an Isle, where the Air is more gross then in the Continent; and therefore not so piercing and sharp, as it plainly appeareth by our winters, which are not so sharp as in Milan in Italy: neither are we subject to such storms of hail in Summer, which are very frequent in hot Countries, and for many miles together do spoil their Vines, so that they cannot make wine of the Grapes; for those Grapes which are touched by the hail, have a Sulphureous and a very unpleasant taste, and only fit to make Aquavitae. Further, Sometimes in France, cask for their wines is so dear, that a tun of wine may be had for a tun of cask: and the custom and excize which is laid on wines here, is as much again as the poor Vigueron in France expects for his wine. Not to speak of the ill managing of their Vines, especially about Paris, where poor men usually hire an Acre or 2 of Vines, which they manage at their spare hours, and most commonly pack in so many plants of Vines on their ground, for to have the greater increase, that the ground and Vines are so shaded by one another, that I have wondered, that the Sun could dart in his beams to mature them; and therefore I cannot but affirm again, that we may make abundance of wine here with profit, the charges of an Acre of Vineyard not being so great as of Hops: an hundred sets well rooted, at Paris cost usually but 4 or 6 Sous or pence, where I have bought many: 2000 will plant an Acre very well: 50 s. a year is the ordinary rate for the three diggings with their crooked Instrument called Hoyau, and the increase usually four tuns for an Acre, which will be profit enough: and though I refer all to Bonovil, and others, who have written of the managing of Vines; yet I counsel to get a Vigneron from France, where there are plenty, and at cheaper rates than ordinary servants here, and who will be serviceable also for Gardening.  
2. I will briefly tell what I have seen. In Italy through all Lombardy, which is for the most part plain and Champion, their Vines grow in their Hedges on Walnut-trees, for the most part: in which fields, they speak of three Harvests yearly, viz.  
1. Winter-Corn, which is reaped in June, etc.  
2. Vines and Walnuts, which are gathered in September.  
3. Their Summer-Grains as Millet, pannicle, Chiches, Vetches, etc. Buck-wheat, Frumentone, or that which we call Virginia-Wheat, Turnips, which they sow in July, when their Winter-Corn is cut and reaped, they reap in October. In France, their Vines grow three manner of ways; In Prove●●e they cut the Vine about two foot high, and make it strong and stubbed, like as we do our Osiers; which stock beareth up the branches without a prop.  
2. About Orleans, and where they are more curious, they make frames for them to run along.  
3. About Paris they tie them to short poles, as we do hops to long ones. In France they usually make trenches, or small ditches, about three or four foot from one another, and therein plant their Vines, about one foot and an half deep, which is a good way, and very much to be commended; but if we here in England, plant Vines as we do hops, 4 or 5 foot distant, it will do very well, but let them not be packed together too thick, as they do in France in many places, lest they too much shade the ground, and one another. In Italy when they tread their grapes with their feet in a Cart, they pour the juice into a great Vessel or Fat, and put to it all their husks and stones which they call Grasp, and let them ferment, or (as we say) work together 12 or 14 days, and usually they put one third of water to it, this maketh a wine less furious, Garbo or rough, and therefore a good stomach wine; but it spoileth the colour, and taketh away the pleasant brisk taste. In France so soon as they have pressed out their liquor with their feet, they put it in hogsheads, and after in their Press squeeze out what they can, out of the Grasp; which seemeth to fill up their Hogsheads while they work, which is usually three or four days, and then stop them close: this is also the way used in Germany, and is the best, for it maketh a fine Gentile wine with a curious colour. In Germany, when their Grapes are green, they make fire in their Sellars in Stoves, by the which means, their wines work extraordinarily, and do digest themselves the better: This course we must also take here in England some years; for it helpeth the rawness of all liquours very much. There is an Ingenious Dutchman, who hath a Secret, which as yet he will not reveal, how to help Maturation by a Compost applied to the roots: The Compost which I have spoken of before, made of Brimstone: Pigeons-dung is very excellent for that purpose, 
Glauber.  as also L●es of wine, blood, lime used with moderation. He also knoweth how to make sour Grapes produce good wine; I suppose his way to be this. First, all juice of Grapes newly expressed is sweet, and which may by itself alone be made into a sweet syrup, by boiling, which the French call Racineè. Further in the Evaporation of liquors, which have not fermented or wrought, the watery part goeth away first.  
3. Fermentation giveth a vinous taste, and maketh a liquor full of spirits.  
You may then easily guests at the way, and perhaps he may add also sugar and spices, as the Vintuers do when they make Hippocras. I know a Gentleman, who hath made excellent wine of Raisins well boiled in water, and afterward fermented by itself, or with Barm, it's called usually Mead. I likewise know, that all sweet and fatty Juices will make sine vinous liquours, as Damsins, if they be wrought or fermented ingeniously: but whosoever goeth about such experiments, let him not think that any thing is good enough for these purposes; but let him use the best he can get: for of naughty corrupt things, who can expect that which is excellent and delicate.  

The eight Deficiency concerning Hemp and Flax.  The Deficiency of us in this kind is so obvious, that all the world takes notice of it, and it is (next the neglect of fishing) the greatest shame to this Nation: for all know that we have as good land for these seeds, as any can be found in Europe; and that the sowing of them requireth neither more labour, cost, or skill, than other seeds. And further that the Materials made from these are extremely necessary: for how miserable should we be without Linen, Canvases, Cordage, Nets? How can we put our ships to Sea, which are the bulwarks of this Isle? And yet we are necessitated to have these Commodities from those who would destroy (I will not say the Nation, but I may boldly say) our Shipping, and Trade. I hope that this will more seriously be considered by those at the Helm of our State. I will freely and plainly relate, how this Deficiency may easily be remedied according to my judgement.  
1. To compel by a Law, that all Farmers, who plough and sow 50 or 100 Acres of Land, should sow half an Acre, or an Acre of Hemp or Flax. or to pay 5 s. or 10 s. to the poor of the Parish where they live, or some Law to this purpose; for there is no man but hath land fit for one of these; Hemp desiring a stiff, deep, rich land, Flax that which is light.  
For there is so much irrationality in some professions, that they must be forced even like Bruits to understand their own good· In King Edward the sixth days something was enacted to this purpose, as I am informed. In Henry the eighth days, there was a Law enacted that every man should sow his lands, and that no man should enclose his lands, lest he should turn it to Pasture; for we have had great dearth in England through the neglect of Tillage; which Laws even as yet stand in force; yet there is not, nor needeth there be any force to compel men to till and sow their lands; for they have at length found the sweetness, and willingly go about it for their own profits sake, and now we suppose (and not without cause) that Enclosing is an Improvement: and so concerning Hemp and Flax; I say, if they were once accustomed to sow them, they would never leave it, as I see Farmers do in East-Kent; scarce a man but he will have a considerable plot of ground for Hemp, and about London far greater quantities of Flax is sown then formerly.  
2. It were convenient, that every Parish through the Nation should have a stock to set their poor to work, that the young children and women might not run up and down idle, and begging or stealing (as they do in the Country) of Apples, Pease, Wood, Hedges, and so by little and little, are trained up for the Gallows.  
3. That a severe Law should be enacted against those who run up and down and will not work: for if all know, that they may have work at home, and earn more within doors honestly, then by running roguing up and down, why should they not compel them to it? And though some may think the Parishes will lose much by this way; because that the stock wrought will not be put off, but with loss, as perhaps 10 l. will be brought to 8 l. yet let them consider how much they shall save at their doors, how many inconveniences they are freed from; their hedges in the Country shall not be pulled, their fruits stolen, nor their Corn purloined; and further, that the poor will be trained up to work, and therefore fit for any service: yea and in their youth, learn a calling by the which they may get an honest livelihood; and I dare say, their Assessments for the poor, would not be so frequent, nor the poor so numerous: and the benefit which redounds to the Nation, would be very great.  
4. The charitable deeds of our forefathers, aught to be enquired after, that they be not misplaced, as usually they are, but be really bestowed for the good of the poor, that are laborious, (as in London is begun) and if there be any that will not work, take Saint Paul's rule, who best knew what was best for them. I dare not advise to take it in part of Commons, Fens, etc. and to improve them for this use, lest I should too much provoke the rude merciless multitude. But to return to my discourse. I say, that sowing Hemp and Flax, will be very beneficial.  
1. To the Owners of Land: for men usually give in divers places 3 l. per Acre, to sow Hemp and Flax (as I have seen at Maidstone in Kent, which is the only place, I know in England where thread is made: and though nigh an hundred bands are employed about it; yet they make not enough for this Nation) and yet get good profit. How advantageous will this be to those who have drained the Fens, where questionless Hemp will flourish, and exsiccate the ground: for Hemp desireth stiff moist land, as Flax light and dry) and likewise to those in the North of England, where land is very cheap? I hope in a little time Ireland will furnish us with these commodities, if we be idle; for there land is very cheap, and those seeds need no ininclosure; for Cattle will not touch them, except Dear, neither doth it fear the plunderer, either in the field or barn.  
2. It's profitable to the sour. I know that they usually value an Acre at 10 or 12 l. which costeth them usually but half the money. Whether there be Flax that will yield 30 or 40 l. per Acre as some report, I know not.  
3. To the place where it is sown; because it sets many poor to work. I wish it were encouraged more in the North than it is; because there are many poor, who could willingly take pains, and though spinning of linen be but a poor work; yet it is light, and may be called women's recreation, (and in France and Spain, the best Citizens Wives think it no disgrace to go about spinning with their Rocks) and though in some part the poor think it nothing to earn 4 or 6 d per day, and will as soon stand with their hands in their pockets, as work cheap; yet in the North they account it well to earn 3 d. or 4 d. by spinning, which they may do.  
Lastly, It would be very beneficial to this Nation, and save many thousand pounds, I may say 100 thousands, which are expected either in cash, or good commodities; and we should not be beholding to Holland for fine linen and Cordage, nor to France for Poldavices, Locrams, Canvases, Nets, nor to Flanders for thread: but might be supplied abundantly with these necessary commodities even at our own doors.  
There is no small Deficiency in dunging and manuring lands, both because all that manner of manuring and amending lands, is not known to every one, 
9 Deficiency, concerning dunging and manuring Lands.  and also that they do not employ all they know to the best use. I will therefore set down most of the ways I have seen here in England and beyond Seas, by which Land is improved, and the best ways to use the same.  
1. To begin with Chalk, which is as old a way as Julius Caesar's time, as he himself reporteth in his Commentaries. Chalk is of two sort.  
1. A hard, strong, dry Chalk, with which in Kent they make walls, burn lime, and make whiting for houses.  
2. Kind is a small unctuous Chalk: this is the Chalk for land, the other helpeth little; only it maketh the Plough go easier in stiff lands: broomy land is accounted the best land for Chalk and Lime, but it helpeth other lands also; especially if you Chalk your ground, and let it lie a year or two, which is the way used in Kent; that it may be matured and shattered by the Sun and rain, otherwise if it be turned in presently, it is apt to lie in great clods, as I have seen it twenty years after. Chalk also sweeteneth pasture, but doth not much increase it, and killeth rushes and broom.  
2. Lime, which is made of divers forts of stones, is an excellent thing for most Lands, and produceth a most pure grain: 160 bushels is usually laid on an Acre, but I suppose that if men did lay but half the dung on the ground, as they usually do, as also Lime and Chalk, and Dung and Lime it oftener, it would be better Husbandry: for much dung causeth much weeds, and causeth Corn to lodge; and too much Chalk doth too much force the land, so that after some good crops, it lieth barren many years. It's good Husbandry likewise to lay down lands before they be too much out of heart; for they will sooner recover: otherwise not.  
3. Ordinary Dung, which every one knoweth; but let it not be exposed to the Sun too much, nor let it lie in an high place: for the rain will waste away its fatness. It's observable, that earth the more it is exposed to the Sun, it's the better; as we see that land is much bettered by oft ploughings: for the Sun and dew engender a nitrous fatness, which is the cause of fertility; but dung is exhausted by the Sun, as it appeareth by the folding of sheep, which profit little, if it be not presently turned in; therefore a Shepherd, if his time would permit, should turn up the ground with an How for to sow Turnips, as gardiner's do for to sow. I have seen Ordinary Dung on dry lands in dry years to do hurt, and it oft causeth weeds and trumpery to grow.  
4. Marle, It's of divers kinds: some stony, some soft, some white, some yellowish, but most commonly blue. It's in most places in England, but not known by all: the best marks to know it, is to expose it to the Air, and to see if the Sun or Rain cause it to shatter, and break in square pieces like dice, and if it be unctuous, or rather to take a load or two, and lay it on the midst of your fields, and to try how it mendeth your lands. It's excellent for Corn and Pasture, especially on dry lands. In Essex the scouring of their ditches they call Marle, because it looketh blue like it, it helpeth their lands well.  
5. Snaggreet: which is a kind of earth taken out of the Rivers, full of small shells. It helpeth the barren lands in divers parts of Surrey. I believe it's found in all Rivers; It were well, if in other parts of England, they did take notice of it.  
6. Owse out of Marsh ditches, hath been found very good for white Chalky land: as also Sea-mud and Sea-Owse is used in divers parts of Kent and Sussex.  
7. Seaweeds of all sorts rotten.  
8. Mr. Carew in his Survey of Cornwall relateth, that they use a fat Sea-sand, which they carry up many mises in sacks, and by this they have very much improved their barren lands. It were worth the while to try all manner of Sea-sands: for I suppose, that in other places they have a like fertilizing fatness.  
9 Folding of Sheep, especially after the Flaunders manner, (viz.) under a covert, in which earth is strawed about 6 inches thick, on which they set divers nights: then more earth must be brought and strawed 6 inches thick, and the Sheep folded on it, and thus they do continually Winter and Summer. I suppose a shepherd, with one horse, will do it at his spare hours, and indeed sooner than remove his fold; and this folding is to be continued, especially in Winter, and doth the sheep good; because they lie warm and dry: and truly if I am not mistaken, by this means we may make our sheep to enrich all the barren dry lands of England.  
10. Ashes of any kind, Sea-cole-ashes with Horse-dung, the Gardiner's of London much commend for divers uses. It's great pity, that so many thousand loads are thrown into waste places, and do no good.  
11. Soot is also very good, being sprinkled on ground, but it's too dear, if it be of wood: for it's worth 16 d or 2 s a bushel.  
12. Pigeons or Hens-dung is incomparable: one load is worth 10 loads of other dung, & therefore it's usually sown on Wheat, that lieth afar off, and not easy to be helped: it's extraordinary likewise on a Hop-Garden.  
13. Mault-dust is exceedingly good in Corn-land: blood for trees; also shave of horns, which are carried many miles from London for this purpose, as also the dust of malt.  
14. Some commend very much the sweeping of a ship of salt, or drossy salt and brine: it's very probable; because it killeth the worms, and all fertility proceedeth from salt. At Nantwich, they use the dross or refuse of salt for their Meadows with very good success.  
15. I have seen in France, poor men cut up Heath, and the Turf of the ground, and lay them on an heap, to make mould for their barren lands. Brakes laid in a moist place, and rotten, are used much for Hop-Grounds, and generally all things that will rot, if they were stones, would make dung.  
16. In New-England they fish their ground, which is done thus: In the spring about April, there cometh up a fish to the fresh Rivers, called an Alewife; because of its great belly: and is a kind of Shade, full of bones; these are caught in wires, and sold very cheap to the Planters, who usually put one or two cut in pieces into the hill where their Corn is planted, called Virginia-Wheat, for they plant it in hills, 5 Grains in an hill, almost as we plant Hops, (in May, or June: for it will not endure Frosts) and at that distance; it causeth fertility extraordinary for two years, especially the first: for they have had fifty or sixty bushels on an Acre, and yet plough not their Land, and in the same Hills do plant the same Corn for many years together, and have good Crops: besides abundance of Pompions, and French or Kidney beans. In the North parts of New-England, where the fisher men live, they usually fish their Ground with Codsheads; which if they were in England would be better employed I suppose that when sprats be cheap, men might mend their Hop-grounds with them, and it would quit cost: but the dogs will be apt to scrape them up, as they do in New-England, unless one of their legs be tied up.  
17. Urine. In Holland they as carefully preserve the Cow's Urine, as the Dung to enrich their land: old Urine is excellent for the Roots of Trees. Columella in his Book of Husbandry, saith, that he is an ill Husband that doth not make ten loads of dung for every great beast in his yard, and as much for every one in his house, and one load for small Beasts as Hogs. This is strange Husbandry to us: and I believe there are many ill Husbands by this account. I know a woman who liveth five miles' South of Canterbury, who saveth in a pail all the droppings of the Houses, I mean the Urine, and when the pail is full, sprinkleth it on her Meadow, which causeth the grass at first to look yellow, but after a little time it grows wonderfully, that many of her Neighbours wondered at it, and were like to accuse her of Witchcraft.  
18. Woollen-rags, which Hartfortshire men use much, and Oxford-shire, and many other places: they do very well in thin Chalky Land in Kent for two or three years. It's a fault in many places, that they neglect these, as also Linen rags, or Ropes-ends, of the which white and brown paper is made; for it's strange that we have not Linnen-rags enough for paper, as other Nations have; but must have it from Italy, France, and Holland.  
19 Denshyring (so called in Kent, 
Mr. Cambden.  where I only have seen it used, though by the word it should come from Denbighshire,) is the cutting up of all the Turf of a Meadow, with an instrument sharp on both sides, which a man with violence thrusts before him, and then lay the Turf on heaps, and when it is dry they burn it, and spread it on the ground The Charge is usually four Nobleses, which the goodness of a Crop or two repayeth.  
20. Mixture of Lands. Columella an old Writer saith, that his Grandfather used to carry sand on clay, and on the contrary to bring clay on sandy grounds, and with good success, 
Natural History,  the Lord Bacon thinking much good may be done thereby; for if Chalk be good for loamy land, why should not loam be good for Chalky banks?  
21. I may add Enclosure as an Improvement of land: not only because that men, when their grounds are enclosed, may employ them as they please; but because it giveth warmth, and consequently fertility. There is one in London, who promised to mend lands much by warmth only, and we see that if some few sticks lie together, and give a place warmth, how speedily that grass will grow.  
22. Steeping of Grains. The Ancients used to steep Beans in salt-water: and in Kent it's usual to steep Barley, when they sow late, that it may grow the faster; and also to take away the soil: for wild Oats, Cockle, and all save Drake will swim: as also much of the light Corn, which to take away is very good. If you put Pigeons-dung into the water, and let it steep all night, it may be as it were half a dunging: take heed of steeping Pease too long; for I have seen them sprout in three or four hours.  
23. Is the sowing of Course and cheap Grain, and when they are grown to plough them in. For this purpose the Ancients did use LUPINS, a Plant well known to our gardiner's: and in Kent sometimes Tares are sown, which when the cattle have eaten a little of the tops, they turn them in, with very good Improvement for their ground.  
Lastly, To conclude, I may add as a main Deficiency, that though we by experience find that all the foresaid Materials, and divers others, as oft-tilling, Husbandry, seasons, etc. change of Seed and Land, resting of Lands, fencing, etc. do cause Fertility: yet we are very ignorant of the true causes of Fertility, and know not what Chalk, Ashes, Dung, Marle, Water, Air, Earth, Sun, etc. do contribute: whether something Essential, or Accidental; Material, or Immaterial; Corporal, or Spiritual; Principal, or Instrumental; Visible, or Invisible? whether Saline, Sulphureous, or Mercurial; or Watery, Earthy, Fiery, Acreal? or whether all things are nourished by Vapours, Fumes, Atoms, Effluvia? or by Salt, as Urine, Embrionate, or Non specificate? or by Ferments, Odours, Acidities? or from a Chaos, or inconfused, indigested, and unspecificated lump? or from a Spermatick, dampish Vapour, which ascendeth from the Centre of the Earth, or from the Influence of Heaven? or from Water only impregnated, corrupted, or fermented? or whether the Earth, by reason of the Divine Benediction hath an Infinite, multiplicative Virtue, as Fire, and the Seeds of all things have? or whether the multiplicity of Opinions of learned Philosophers, (as Aristotle, Rupesc. Sendivog. Norton, Helmont, Des Cartes, Digby, White, Plate, Gla uber,) concerning this Subject showeth the great difficulty of this Question, which they at leisure may peruse. I for my part pair not venture on this vast Ocean in my small Bark, lest I be swallowed up; yet if an opportunity presents, shall venture to give some hints, that some more able Pen may engage in this difficult Question, which strikes at the Root of Nature and may unlock some of her choicest treasures. The Lord Bacon hath gathered stubble (as he ingeniously and truly affirms) for the bricks of this foundation; but as yet I have not seen so much as a solid foundation; plainly laid by any, on which an ingenious man might venture to raise a noble Fabric: I acknowledge the burden too heavy for my shoulders.  
I will not deny, but that we have good Husbands, 
10. Deficiency concerning the Non-Improvement of our Meadows.  who dung and Marl their Meadows, and Pasture-land, and throw down all Mole and Ant-hills, and with their Spud-staffe, cut up all thistles and weeds; and that they likewise straw ashes on their Grounds to kill the Moss; and salt for the Worms, and they do very well, but yet there are many who are negligent in these particulars, for the which they are blame-worthy, but the Deficiencies, of which I intent to speak of, are these following. Cato, one of the wisest of the Romans, saith, that Pratum est, quasi paratum; always ready, and prepared; and preferreth Meadows before the Olive-Gardens, (although the Spaniards bequeath Olive-trees to their children, as we do cottages) or Vines or Corn; because Meadows bring in a certain profit, without labour and pains. But the other requireth much cost and pains, and are subject to Frosts, Mildew, Hail, Locusts: to the which for the honour of Meadows. I may add that the stock of Meadows, is of greater value, and the Commodities which arise from them, are divers; and of greater value, than Corn, as Butter, Cheese, Tollow, Hides, Beef, Wool: and therefore I may conclude, that England abounding in Pastures more than other Country's is therefore richer; and I know (what others think I care not) that France, Acre for Acre, is not comparable to it; Fortescue Chancellor of England, saith, that we get more in England by standing still, than the French by working: but to speak of the Deficiencies amongst us.  
1. We are to blame, that we have neglected the great Clover-grass, Saint Foin, Lucerne.  
2. That we do not float our lands, as they do in Lombard, where they mow their Lands three or four times yearly, which consist of the great Clover-grass. Here are the excellent Parmisane Cheeses made, and indeed these Pastures far exceed any other places in Italy, yea in Europe. We here in England have great opportunities by Brooks and Rivers in all places to do so, but we are negligent; yet we might hereby double, if not triple our profits, kill all rushes, etc. But he that desireth to know the manner how to do this, and that profit, that will arise thereby, let him read Mr. Blithe's Book of Husbandry lately printed.  
3. That when we lay down Land for Meadow or Pasture, we do not sow them with the Seeds of fine sweet grass, Trefoils, and other excellent herbs. Concerning this you may read a large Treatise of the Countrey-Farmer; for if the Land be rich, it will put forth weeds and trumpery, and perhaps a kind of sour grass little worth, if it be poor, ye shall have thistles, May-weed, and little or no grass, for a year or two. I know a Gentleman, who at my entreaty, sowed with his Oats the bottom of his Hay-mow, and though his Land were worn out of heart, and naturally poor; yet he had that year not only a Crop of Oats; but he might if it had pleased him, have mown his grass also, but he spared it, which was well done, till the next year, that it might make a Turf, and grow stronger. By this Husbandry Lands might be well improved, especially if men did consider the diversity of grasses, which are ninety sorts, and three and twenty of Trefoil: I know a place in Kent, which is a white Chalky Down, which ground is sometimes sown with Corn a year or two, and then it resteth as long or longer: when it is laid down, it maintaineth many great Sheep and very lusty, so that they are even fit for the Butcher; and yet there doth scarce appear any thing that they can eat, which hath caused divers to wonder, as if they had lived on Chalk-stones: but I more seriously considering the matter, throughly viewed the ground, and perceived that the ground naturally produceth a small Trefoil which it seemeth is very sweet and pleasant; it's commonly called Trifolium luteum, or Lupilinum, that is, yellow, or Hop-Trefoil: and I am persuaded, if that the Seed of this Trefoil were preserved, and sown with Oats, when they intent to lay it down, it would very much advance the Pasture of that place; therefore I desire all Ingenious men, seriously to consider the nature of the Trefoils, which are the sweetest of grasses, and to observe on what grounds they naturally grow: and also the nature of other grasses, which (as I have said before) are no less than ninety sorts, naturally growing in this Isle; some on watery places, some on dry, some on clay, others on sand, chalk, etc. Some on fruitful places, others in barren; by the which means, I suppose a solid foundation might be laid, for the advancing of Pasture-lands of all sorts, through this Island? for I know some plants, as the Orchis called Bee-flower, etc. which will thrive better on the Chalky barren banks, then in any Garden, though the Mould be never so rich and delicate, and the Gardener very diligent in cherishing of it: and why may not the same propriety be in grasses? for we see divers beauty grasses to thrive, espcially on barren places, where scarce any thing else will grow. I must again and again desire all men to take notice of the wonderful grass which groweth near Salisbury, and desire them to try it on their rich Meadows.  
It's a common saying, that there are more waste lands in England, in many particulars, then in all Europe besides, 
11. Deficiency concerning waste Lands.  considering the quantity of land. I dare not say this is true; but hope if it be so, that it will be mended. For of late much hath been done for the advancement of these kinds of land; yet there are as your great Deficiencies. In the times of Papistry, all in this Island were either Soldiers or Scholars: Scholars by reason of the great honours, privileges, and profits, (the third part of the Kingdom belonging to them) and Soldiers, because of the many and great Wars with France, Scotland, Ireland, Wales. And in those times Gentlemen thought it an honour to be careless, and to have Houses, Furniture, Diet, Exercises, Apparel, etc. yea all things at home and abroad, Soldierlike: Music, Pictures, Perfumes, Sauces, (unless good stomaches) were counted, perhaps unjustly, too effeminate. In Queen Elizabeth's days, Ingenuities, Curiosities, and Good Husbandry, began to take place, and then Salt-Marshes began to be fenced from the Seas; and yet many were neglected, even to our days, as Holhaven in Essex, Axtel-holme Isle, nigh Yorkshire: many 1000 of Acres have lately been gained from the Sea in Lincolne-shire, and as yet more are to be taken in there, and in other places. Rumsey-marsh in Kent, consisting of 45000 Acres and upwards, (as Cambden relateth) is of some antiquity where the Land is usually set 30 s. per Acre, and yet 1 d. per week constantly is paid, through the whole levil, for the maintenance of the wall, and now and then twopences, whereas ordinary salts are accounted dear at five shillings or six shillings per Acre; so that the improvement is very considerable: the same I may say of Fens, especially that great Fen of Lincolnshire, Cambridg, Huntingdon, consisting as I am informed of 380000 Acres, which is now almost recovered; and a friend of mine told me very lately, that he had proffered a Mark per Acre, for 900 Acres together, to sow Rape on, which formerly was scarcely valued at twelve pence per Acre; very great therefore is the improvement by draining of lands, and our negligence very great, that they have been waist so long, and as yet so continue in divers places: for the improving of a Kingdom is better than the conquering of a new one.  
2. I see likewise no small faults in this land, by having so many Chases and Forests, where Brambles, Brakes, Furzes do grow, when as these trumperies might be cut up, and pot-ashes made of them; and the ground employed profitably for Corn or Pasture. I know a Forest by Brill in Buckinghamshire taken in, and the land is usually let being now well enclosed, for 4 or 5 Nobles per Acre. In Lancashire also, as about Lerpoole, and elsewhere I have seen Commons little worth, advanced to a great price by Marling, etc.  
3. Sort of waste-land, is dry hea●hy Commons, I know that poor people will cry out against me, because I call these waste-lands; but it's no matter: I desire Ingenious Gentlemen seriously to consider, whether or no these lands might not be improved very much by the Husbandry of Flaunders, (viz.) by sowing Flax, Turnips, great Clover-grass, if that Manure be made by folding Sheep after the Flaunders way to keep it in heart?  
2. Whether the Rottenness and scabbiness of Sheep, Murrain of cattle, Diseases of Horses, and in general all diseases of cattle do not especially proceed from Commons?  
3. If the rich men, who are able to keep great stocks, are not great Gainers by them?  
4. Whether Commons do not rather make poor, by causing idleness, than maintain them; and such poor, who are trained up rather for the Gallows or beggary, then for the Commonwealth's service?  
5. How it cometh to pass, that there are fewest poor, where there fewest Commons, as in Kent, where there is scarce six Commons in the County of a considerable greatness?  
6. How many do they see enriched by the Commons; and if their cattle be not usualy swept away by the Rot, or starved in some hard Winters?  
7. If that poor men might not employ two Acres enclosed to more advantage; then twice as much in a Common?  
And Lastly, If that all Commons were enclosed, and part given to the Inhabitants, and part rent out, for a stock to set all the poor on work in every County; I determine nothing in this kind: but leave the determination for wiser heads.  
4. Parks. Although I cannot but reckon Parks amongst Lands, which are not improved to the full; but perceive considerable waste by them, by brak●s, bushes, brambles, etc. growing in divers places, and therefore wish there were fewer in this Island; yet I am not so great an enemy to them, as most are for there are very great Uses of them. As,  
1. For the bringing up of young cattle.  
2. For the maintaining of Timber, so that if any have occasion to use a good piece of Timber either for a Mil-port, or a Keel of a Ship, or other specil uses, whither can they go but to a Park?  
3. The Skins of the Deer are very useful, and their fl●sh excellent Fo●d. Not to speak of the Medicinal Uses, nor of Acorns for Hogs, etc. But some will object that the Plough never goeth there. To the which I answer, It's no matter: For I cannot but say as Fortescue Chancellor to Henry 6. doth, That God hath given us such a fruitful land, that without labour we have plenty: 
Pre-eminence of English Laws.  whereas France must dig and delve for what they have. And I suppose, that I could maintain two things which are thought great Paradoxes, (viz.) that it were no loss to this Island, if that we should not plough at all, if so be that we could certainly have Corn at a reasonable rate, and likewise vent for all our Manufactures of Wool.  
1. Because that the Commodities from cattle are far more stable than Corn: for clothes, Stuffs, Stockings, Butter, Cheese, Hides, Leather, Skins, Wool, Tallow, are certain even every where: Corn scarcely in any place, constantly in none.  
2. Pasture employeth more hands, which is the second Paradox: and therefore Pasture doth not depopulate, as it is commonly said: for Normandy and Picardy in France, where there are Pastures in a good measure, are as populous as any part of France; and I am certain, that Holland, Friezeland, Zealand, Flaunders, and Lombardy, which rely altogether on Pastures, are the most populous places in Europe. But some will object and say, that a shepherd and a dog formerly hath destroyed divers Villages. To this I answer, that we well know what a shepherd and a dog can do, (viz) look to two or three hundred sheep at the most, and that two or three hundred Acres will maintain them, or the land is extremely barren; and that these two or three hundred Acres being barren, will scarcely maintain a Plough, (which is but one man and two boys,) with the horses: and that the mowing, reaping, and threshing of this Corn, and other Work about, will scarcely maintain three more with work through the whole year. But how many people may be employed by the Wool of two or three hundred Sheep, in Picking, Sorting, Carding, Spinning, Weaving, Dying, Fulling, Knitting, I leave to others to calculate. And further if the Pastures be rich Meadows, and go on dailing, I suppose all know, that an hundred Acres of such land employeth more hands than 100 Acres of the best Corr-Land in England, and produceth likewise better exportable Commodities. And further, if I should grant, that formerly the shepherd and his dog did depopulate, that I may not condemn the wisdom of former Ages; yet I will deny, that it doth so now: for formerly we were so unwise, as to send over our Wool to Antwerp, and other places, where they were Manufactured; by which means one pound oft brought ten unwrought to them; but we set now our own poor to work, and so save the depopulation. Yet I say, it's convenient to encourage the Plough; because that we cannot have a certainty of Corn, and carriage is dear both by sea and land, especially into the Inland-countreys', and our Commodities by Wool do cloy the Merchants.  
5. Rushy-lands. Blithe telleth us good Remedies for these Inconveniences, (viz.) making deep trenches, oft-mowings, Chalking, Liming, Dunging and Ploughing. I know where hungry guests Horses soon make an end of them.  
6. Furze, Broom, Heath, these can hardly be so destroyed, but at length they will up again; for God hath given a peculiar propriety to every kind of earth, to produce some peculiar kinds of Plants, which it will observe even to the World's end, unless by Dung, Marle, Chalk, you alter even the very nature of the earth. In Gallitia in Spain, where such barren lands do very much abound, they do thus: first, they grub them up as clean as they can; of the greater Roots and Branches they make firewood; the smaller sticks are either employed in fencing, or else are burnt on the ground; afterwards the Land being ploughed twice at least, they sow Wheat, and usually the Crop is great, which the Landlord and Tenant divide according to a compact; then the ground resteth, and in three or four years, the Furze or Brooms will recover their former growth, which the painful Husbandman grubbeth, and doth with it as formerly. I set this down, that you may see how laborious the Spaniard is in some places, the poverty of the Country compelling him to it.  
7. There are other Inconveniences in the Land, besides weeds and trumpery (viz.) Ill Tenors, as Copyhold, Knight-service, etc. so that the Possessor cannot cut any Timber down, without consent of the Lord; and when he dies must pay one or two years' rent, perhaps more; because there is no certain Fine, but is at the Landlords mercy. But these are not in the power of the poor Husbandman to remedy; I therefore pass them by: yet hope that in little time we shall see these Inconveniences remedied: because they much discourage Improvements, and are (as I suppose) Badges of our Norman slavery.  
To conclude, It seemeth to me very reasonable, and it will be a great encouragement to laborious men, to improve their barren lands, if that they should have recompense for what they have done, according as indifferent men should judge, when they leave it, as is the custom in Flaunders.  

12. Deficiency, in Woods.  I have likewise observed some Deficiencies in Woods, which I shall briefly declare, with the best way to remedy the same.  
1. It's a great fault, that generally through the Island the Woods are destroyed; so that we are in many places very much necessitated both for fuel, and also for timber for building, and other uses; so that if we had Coals from Newcastle, and Board's from Norwey, Clap-boards, Barrel-staves, Wainscot, and Pipe-staves, from Prussia, we should be brought to great extremity: and many Mechanics would be necessitated to leave their callings.  
2. Deficiency, is that our Woods are not ordered as they should be; but though Woods should be especially preserved for timber, for building and shipping; yet at this time it's very rare to see a good Timber-tree in a Wood  
3. That many of our Woods are very thin, and not replenished with such sorts of Woods, as are convenient for the place.  
4. That we sell continually, and never plant or take care for posterity.  
These Deficiencies may be thus Remedied.  
1. To put in execution the Statutes against grubbing of Woods, which are sufficiently severe. It's well known, we have good Laws; but it's better known, they are not executed. In the Wild of Kent, and Sussex, which lies far from the Rivers and Sea, and formerly have been nothing but Woods, liberty is granted for men to grub what they please; for they cannot want firing for themselves, and they are so seated, that neither firewood, nor timber can be transported elsewhere. I know a Gentleman who proffered there good Oak-timber at 6 s. 8 d. per tun▪ and the Land in those parts in general is very good. About Tunbridge there is Land which formerly was Wood, is now let for 30 s. par Acre; so that to keep such lands for Wood, would be both loss to the owner, and to the Island: But in other parts of the Island it is otherwise, and men are much to be blamed for destroying both timber and fuel. I have seen at Shooters-hill near London, some Woods stubbed up which were good ground for Wood, but now are nothing but furze, which is a great loss both to the owner, and to the Country. For the Land is made worse than it was formerly. I conceive there are Lands, which are as naturally ordained for Woods, viz. Mountainous, Craggy, uneven-land, as small hills for ●he Vines and Olives; plain lands for Corn; and low moist lands for Pasture: which lands if they be stubbed, do much prejudice the Commonwealth.  
2. That all Woods should have such a Number of Timber-trees per Acre, according to the Statute. There is a good Law for that purpose, but men delude both themselves and the law, that they every Felling cut down the standers, which they left the felling before, lest perchance they should grow to be Timber, and leave twelve small Standards, that they might seem to fulfil in some measure the Statute; but it's a mere fallacy; and causeth the Statute to fail of its principal end, which is to preserve Timber.  
3. The best Remedy against thinness of Woods, is to plash them and spread them abroad, and cover them partly in the ground, as every Countryman can direct; by this means the Wood will soon grow rough and thick. It's good Husbandry likewise to fill your Woods with swift growers, as Ashes, Sallow, Willow, Asp, which are also good for Hop-poles, Hoops. Sycamore is also a swift grower. In Flaunders they have a kind of Poplar, called by them Abell-tree, which speedily groweth to be timber.  
4. That some Law be made, that they which fell, should also plant or sow. In Bis●ay there is a Law, if that any cut down a Timber-tree, he must plant three for it, which law is put into execution with severity, otherwise they would soon be undone; for the Country is very mountainous and barren, and dependeth wholly on Iron Mines, and on Shipping: their Woods are not copsed there, but only pollard's, which they lop when occasion serveth. I know one, who was bound by his Landlord to plant so many Trees yearly, which according he did, but always in such places that they might not grow. In France, near to the Borders of Spain, they sow Ashkey, which when they grow to such a greatness, that they may be slit into four quarters, and big enough to make Pikes, than they cut them down; and I have seen divers Acres together thus planted: hence come the excellent Pikes, called Spanish-Pikes. Some Gentlemen have sown Ac●rus, and it's a good way to increase Woods. Though the time is long, I doubt not but every one knoweth, that it's excellent to plant Willows along the waters side; and Ashes nigh their houses for firing: for they are good pieces of Husbandry; and it's pity that it's not more put in practice. There is a Gentleman in Essex, who hath planted so many Willows, that he may lop 2000 every year: if others were as Ingenious, we should not want firewood; Osiers planted in low Morish grounds, do advance land from 5 s. per Acre, to 40 s. 50 s. 3 l. and upward; it's much used Westward of London: these Osiers are of great use to Basket-makers. There is a sort of small Osier or Willow at Saint Omars in Flaunders, which groweth on Islands which float up and down; it's far less than that which the Western men call, Eights, with this they make their curious fine Baskets: this plant is worth the procuring, being so nigh: John Tredeseat hath some plants of it. There is a Flaunt likewise in England called the sweet Willows; it's not only good for shade and firing; but as I am informed, the leaves do not sour the grass, but that the cattle will eat them sooner than Hay: if this be so, it may be of singular use for Meadows.  
5. That those things which mightily destroy Woods, may be restrained, as Iron-works are; therefore the State hath very well done to pull down divers Iron-works in the Forest of De●n, that the Timber might be preserved for Shipping, which is accounted the toughest in England: and when it is dry as hard as Iron, the Common-people did use to say, that in Queen Elizabeth's days the Spaniard sent an Ambassador purposely to get this wood destroyed: how true this is I know not; but without question it's admirable Wood for Shipping, and generally our English Oak is the best in the World for Shipping; because it's of a great Grain, and therefore strong: but the Oaks of other Countries have a finer grain, and more fit for Wainscot; and in this kind our Forefathers have been very provident; for we have an Act of long standing, prohibiting Iron-works within twenty miles of London, and within three miles of the River of Thames: thou you may find Ironstone in divers places, as in the great gravel-pit at Woolwhich. There are some Ingenious men, who lately have got a Patent for making Iron with Sea-ceal●e. I hope they will accomplish their desires, for it would wonderfully advance this Island, and save Wood There are two faults in Sea-coal, in respect of melting Iron-oare.  
1. That it is apt to bake together, or cake.  
2. It hath a sulphureous fume in it, which is an enemy to Metal, and consumeth it as we see by our Iron-Bars in Windows at London; so that the Metallaine Nature of the Ironstone is much wasted by it, and that which remaineth is very brittle, and will be Could-shire. I know t●at by the mixture of Coal beaten with loam, and throughly dried, one (if not both of these Inconveniences) may be taken away. In the Duke of Cleveland's Country, they use half Turf, half Charcoal. There is a way by making a kind of Barter with Loam, Urine, etc. which will cause Charcoal to last very long, as I am informed: but these discourses belong to another place.  

13. Deficiency of Bees.  It's a great Deficiency here in England without question, that we have no more Bees, considering that they are neither chargeable, requiring only a few straws for an house, nor troublesome: and this Island may maintain ten times as many: for though a place may be overstocked with these Animals, as with the greater; yet I know no part of this Land, that is so: and I know divers places which would maintain many hundred Hives, yet scarce one to be seen.  
2. Our Honey is the best in the World, and Wax a stable Commodity. Further we know, that cold Countries, not comparable to ours, as Muscovia, have far greater quantity than we have; so that it's incredible what quantity is found in the Woods, if the story of tho man be true, who fell up even to the ears in Honey, and had there perished, had not a Bear, on which he caught hold, pulled him out. Now I have enquired, how it cometh to pass that there is so great store of Honey in Muscovia, considering the Winters are extreme cold, and also very long: and I am credibly informed that first, the Spring when it beginneth, cometh extraordinary fast, that the days are very long, and the Summers far drier than ours here in England, so that the Bees are not hindered by continual showers; as they are some years here in this Isle: And lastly, that the Country aboundeth much with Firs, and Pinetrees: which the Inhabitants usually cut, that the Gum, Rosinous, or Turpentine substance may sweat forth, to which places the Bees do come, and presently fill themselves, and return laden: and perhaps for these very reasons, Bees thrive very much in New-England.  
2. We are Deficient in the ordering of them. Not to speak of the negligence of particular men, which is very frequent: nor to write a general story of the ordering of them, because it requireth much paper: and Mr. Leveret, and Butler; especially the latter, hath written so exactly, and upon his own experience that little can be added to it: only in a point or two I differ from him; of the which I will speak briefly.  
1. That we must take and destroy all the Bees for their Honey, and not drive them, as they do in Italy once or twice yearly.  
2. That if a Swarm be poor with little Honey, that that Swarm ought to be taken, because it is poor; so that the rich stocks are destroyed, because they be rich, and the poor Swarms, because they be poor: so that be they rich or be they poor, they must be destroyed. An Italian reporteth, that in the City of Askaly, there was a Law made, that none should destroy a Swarm of Bees, unless he had a just cause; accounting it a part of extreme injustice and cruelty, to take away without cause, both the goods and lives of such good and faithful servants. I am credibly informed, that an English Gentleman beyond the Seas, getteth many an hundred pound yearly, by keeping Bees after a new and Ingenious Manner, which is thus. He hath a room made very warm and close; yet with Glasse-windows, which he can open at his pleasure, to let the Bees fly abroad when he pleaseth, where he keepeth his Bees, and feedeth them all Winter; with a sweet Composition made of Molossoes, Flowers, sweet Wine, Milk, Raisins, etc. (for with such things as these, they usually feed Bees in Italy) and often times in Summer, when the weather is rainy, windy, or so disposed, that the Bees cannot conveniently go abroad, he feedeth them at home with divers sweet things, and gathereth divers flowers, and layeth them amongst them, and sticketh up many fresh boughs in divers places of his Rooms, that in swarming-time, they may settle on them; by these means he preserveth all his Swarms, and gathereth an incredible quantity of Honey and wax; and truly this way seemeth to be very profitable: for,  
1. We know the Bees, (even as we say of the Aunts) will work continually, even night and day, Winter and Summer, if that they were not hindered by darkness, cold, and moisture.  
2. That Bees do not only make Honey, (for I suppose, that they have a peculiar propriety of making Honey, as the Silkworms Silk) out of Mildews or Honey, but also out of all sweet things, as Sugar, Molossoes, etc.  
3. That many sweet things may be had far cheaper than Honey; which (I suppose) the Bees will transmute into perfect Honey. This way, I conceive, would be very advantageous to us in England, for the preserving of late swarms, and also for the enriching of old stocks, so that we need not destroy them, but might drive them from hive to hive, and set them to work again; and truly I think there is no place in the World so convenient for this purpose as England; because that though our Winters be long, yet they are not very cold; but Bees would be stirring in them: and further our Summers are so subject to winds and reins, that many times there is scarce a fine day in a whole Week: and further Molossoes, Refuse-Sugar, Sweet-Woort, Milk, etc. may be had at reasonable rates.  
I hope ere long to give an exact account of this experiment, and desire those who have any Ingenuities in this kind, freely to communicate them. I have not observed many things more of importance concerning Bees in my travels; only in Italy they make their Hives of thin boards, square in two are three partitions, standing either above one another, or very close side to side, by the which means, they can the better borrow part of their honey when they please. In Germany their hives are made of straw, to the which they have a summer-door, as they call it, which is nigh the top of the Hive, that the Bees when they are laden, may the more easily enter and discharge themselves of their burdens.  
3. We are to blame, that we do not employ our Honeys in making Metheglin: It's true, that in Herefordshire and Wales, there is some quantity of this liquor made; but for want of good cookery it's of little worth; but usually of a brown colour, of an unpleasant taste: and as I suppose commonly made of the refuse honey, wax, dead Bees, and such stuff, as they ordinarily make it elsewhere: for the good housewife thinks any thing good enough for this purpose; and that it is pity to spoil good Honey by making Mead: but I know that if one take pure neat Honey, and ingeniously clarify and scum and boil it, a liquor may be made not inferior to the best Sack, Muskadine, etc. in colour like to Rockwater, without ill odour or savour; so that some curious Palates have called it Vin-Greco, rich and racy Canary, not knowing what name to give it for its excellency. This would bring very great Profit, not only to the Public, by saving many a thousand pound disbursed for Wines through all the world; but would be very advantageous to private families, who use to entertain their friends very nobly, Wines being at present intolerably dear and naught; I hope therefore ere long to see it put in execution. An excellent drink not much unlike this may be made of Sugar, Molossoes, Raisins, etc. of the which I have already spoken, yet think it fit to put you in mind of it again.  
It's a great Deficiency here in England, 
14. Deficiency, concerning Silkworms.  that we do not keep Silk-wormes (which in Italy are called Cavalieri) for to make Silk. I know that is a great Paradox to many, but I hope by this short discourse to make this truth to appear plainly: The first original of Silk-wormes by what I read in Histories is from Persia, where in infinite numbers they are still maintained; and the greatest profits of that great Monarch do arise from hence: China also aboundeth very much with Silk. In Virginia also the Silkworms are found wild amongst the Mulberry-woods, and perhaps might be managed with great profit in those Plantations, if hands were not so scarce and dear. I suppose this Silkworm of Virginia is produced by the corruption of the Mulberry-tree, as Cochinneal, from Ficus Indica, or Indian-figtree: for some ingenious & curious men who have strictly observed the generation of Infects, do find that every Plant hath an Insect which groweth out of its corruption, (as divers sorts of louse from Animals) and that these Infects do usually feed on that Plant, out of which they were made, as Lice on the same Animals from whence they were engendered. I know a Gentleman here in London, who hath three or four hundred Infects, and can give a very good account of their original feedings. 
Master Marshal.  And also Mr. Moriney in Paris, hath a large Book of the same subject. But to return to our purpose: I say that we had Silkworms first from Persia. In Justinian's time about 1000 or 1100 years ago, some Monks presented a few to him at Constantinople; where in his time they began to plant Mulberries: from thence it came to Italy, about three or four hundred years since: for the Ancient Writers of Husbandry, as Cato, Pallad, Columell, do not so much as mention these creatures: and at length these have passed over the Mountains into France within an hundred years; where they flourish so much, that if we will believe our own Authors, they bring greater profit than the Wine and Corn of that large Country. But be it so or no, I know that France hath Silk enough to maintain their excess of apparel, and to export Plushes, Velvets, etc. Now than if that these worms can thrive, not only in the parched Persia, but also in Greece, Italy, yea in France; which differeth not much from the temper of England; why should we think, that they are confined to that place, and must move no further Northward? for they have come many an hundred miles towards the North, why not one hundred or two more? And further we see that Mulberries, which is their food, thrive here as well as in any place. But some will object, that our Air is too cold and moist. To which I answer.  
1. That those who write of Silkworms, say, that you must take heed, that you make not the place too hot: for too much heat may destroy; and therefore that you must set the windows open to let in the cold Air.  
2. We know, that Moistness of Air rather increaseth Infects, and nourisheth them. Indeed if Moisture hurteth, it's because that it too much corrupteth their food, and causeth a flux amongst them: but this is easily prevented, as I shall show you anon. But to be short, it is not only my opinion that Silkworms will thrive here, but the solid judgement of King James, and his Council, confirmeth the same: as you may see by his letter to the Deputy-lieutenants of every County; wherein also many weighty reasons are contained to convince men of the same, which Letter followeth anon, with the Instructions for the increase and planting of Mulberry-Trees. Printed by Eliaz. Edgar, in the year 1609.  
Lastly, We find by experience, that Silkworms will thrive here, and therefore the matter is out of question: for divers Ladies, Gentlewomen, Scholars, Citizens, etc. have nursed up divers worms to perfection, though they have had little skill in the managing of them; and likewise not such accommodations as are necessary for them; and more would they have done, if they could have had Mulberry-leaves. I am informed that one near Charingcross maketh a good living by them: as also another by Ratliff-Crosse; yea, even in Cheshire at Duckenfield they thrive & prosper. And therefore if we can bring up 100, why not 1000, yea, 100000, if we had food for them? Truly, I know no reason to the contrary, neither could I ever find one that could speak any thing to the purpose against the business. And further I must tell you, that the ordering of this worm is very easy, none need to be bound Prentice to the trade; the special business is to be careful in feeding them, and keeping them sweet; which things children use to do. He that would learn this Art exactly, let him read Boneil●▪ but because that the Book is in French, I will give you a few Rules.  
First, Endeavour to get store of Mulberry-trees, which are of two sorts, the white and the black. The white groweth greatest, and hath a fine leaf, and sweetest, and therefore fittest for the young worms. This is easily propagated by Slips, as Quinces, coddlings. The Black-Mulberry is difficultly propagated by Slips; but must be raised from Seeds, sown either at Michaelmas, when the Mulberries are eaten: or kept in dry sand till the Spring; and then sow or how them in, as other seeds and stones, and must be diligently weeded. This groweth not to be so great a Tree as the former: the leaves are rougher and harsher, and fittest for the greater worms. When they are strong and ready to spin, when your Trees are grown to a good bigness, you may plant them forth, as is usually done for Walks or Orchards, or in waste places, as they do in Italy, (for the Fruit is little worth, only the Leaves are useful,) where I have seen the Trees as bare of leaves at Midsummer as at Midwinter. There are two sorts of Silkworms, the Spanish and Portuguese. The Spanish is the smaller and more tender, and maketh a finer silk. The Portuguese is greater and more hardy, and maketh more Silk, but coarser. This sort seemeth to be the best for this Country. When the Mulberry-trees begin to bud, take the eggs of your Silk-wormes, and lay them on a piece of stuff or Say, (some use to bath them first in warm Malmsy, and say that it maketh them stronger,) and carry them about you in the day in a Box, in the night lay them under your Bed, or in a warm Oven, till the worms begin to come forth, then lay a piece of paper of the wideness of the Pox, cut full of holes on them, and on the paper lay Mulberry-leaves, and as fast as they hatch they will crawl forth, and stick to the Mulberry-leaves; which remove into other Boxes, till all be hatched: then when they passed their second sickness, feed them on shelves two foot broad, and eighteen inches one from another: the Room where you keep your Worms, must neither be a low place, nor nigh the tiles; but a middle Room, warm and dry, yet sometimes a little cold Air is good.  
Take heed of Rats and Mice, as also of Hens, Robinred-brests, Sparrows, and other birds; for they will eat them.  
They have four Sicknesses, the first twelve days after they are hatched; and from that time at the end of every eight days: their sickness lasteth two or three days, and then they are to be fed but very little.  
The whole time that the worms do feed, is about nine weeks: feed them twice daily at least: at the first when they are small, give them a few leaves; and as they grow greater, more, and feed them oftener. Let your leaves be dry and well aired upon a Table or Cloth before you give them; and gather not your leaves, till the dew be off; and in dry seasons, if you can possibly, you may keep your leaves gathered three or four days, or longer.  
Keep your shelves and boxes very clean: but take heed you touch not your worms with your hands, when you remove them; but move them not when they are sick.  
In cold moist weather, set a Pan of Coals in the Room, and burn a little Benjamin, Juniper, etc. especially when they are young, (viz.) the first five weeks; but afterwards, unless it be extraordinary cold, give them Air, and keep them not too hot, and let the Room be well scented with Herbs.  
Let not your Worms be too thick on the shelves: if any dye or be sick, speedily remove them, lest they infect the rest.  
As soon as by the clear Ambour-colour of your worms, you perceive that they would spin; make Arches betwixt your shelves, with heath made clean, branches of Rosemary, Lavender, etc. where the Worms will fasten themselves, and make their bottoms in two or three days, and about twelve or fourteen days after will come forth; before which time, you must take away the bottom which you will use for Silk, and kill the worm within, by laying the bottoms in the sun two or three days, or in an hot Oven.  
The Bottom which you will keep for seed, lay in a warm place, till the worms come forth; which put on some pieces of old Say, Grogran, Velvet, made fast to some wall: there they will engender, and the Male having spent himself falleth down and dyeth; so the Female, when she hath laid her eggs, which eggs when they are grey, you may gently take them off with a knife, and keep them in a piece of Say in a dry place, till hatching time come.  
The winding of the Silk off the bottom requireth a peculiar wheel, which an Artificer must make: one pound and two ounces of the bottom yieldeth from one ounce to three of Silk.  
An ounce of Spanish seed yieldeth ordinarily six, eight, or ten pound of Silk, and the worms will eat 250. li. of leaves: the Calabrian-worms being greater, do eat nigh 300. weight, and yield eleven or twelve pound of Silk.  
To conclude, I desire all men seriously to consider, what advantage this business will bring to this Island, if it be brought to perfection. Truly I know nothing doth hinder the want of Mulberry-trees, which will in little space come to a considerable greatness. And though I commend those who endeavour to advance this work in Plantations, and prefer it before Tobacco; yet I know that it cannot be for want of hands; whereas in England we have plenty of women, children, old folks, lame, decrepit, etc. who are fit to be overseers of this work. And I wonder Gentlemen do not go about a thing so pleasant and profitable, (for three, four, or five at most, will attend as many worms as will make forty or fifty pound worth of Silk in two or three months) and the worms eat only leaves, which are of no value: neither is there any considerable trouble about the worms, unless it be the 12 or 15 last days. I hope if that particular men will not endeavour to advance this work for their private profit, yet the States will for the Public Good, it being the best way I know to set all the poor Children, Widows, old and same people on work, and likewise will save this Nation many an hundred thousand pounds per annum. And further, the way to accomplish this work may be done without grievance to the Subject, (viz.) to command every one to plant or sow so many Mulberry-seeds, which may easily he procured from beyond Seas, etc. But I leave States-matters to Statesmen, I am none.   

A Copy of King James' Letter to the Lords Lieutetenants of the several Shires of England, for the increasing of Mulberry-Trees, and the breeding of Silkworms, for the making of Silk in England.  
JAMES REX. Right-Trusty and Well-beloved, we greet you well.  
IT is a principal part of that Christian care, which appertaineth to Sovereignty, to endeavour by all means possible, as well to beget, as to increase among their people the knowledge and practice of all Arts and Trades, whereby they may be both weaned from idleness, and the enormities thereof, which are infinite, and exercised in such industries and labours as are accompanied with evident hopes, not only of preserving people from the shame and grief of penury; but also raising and increasing them in wealth and abundance, the Scope which every freeborn spirit aimeth at, not in regard of himself only, and the ease which a plentiful estate bringeth to every one in his particular, but also in regard of the honour of their Native Country, whose commendations is no way more set forth then in the people's Activeness and Industry. The consideration whereof, having of late occupied our mind, who always esteem our people's good, our necessary contemplations: We have conceived as well by the discourse of our own reason, as by information gathered from others, that the making of Silk, might as well be effected here, as it is in the Kingdom of France, where the same hath of late years been put in practice. For neither is the climate of this Isle so far distinct or different in condition from that Country; especially from the hither parts thereto, but that it is to be hoped, that those things which by industry prosper there, may by like industry used here, have like success, and many private persons who for their pleasure have bred of those worms, have found no experience to the contrary, but that they may be nourished and maintained here, if provision were made for planting of Mulberry-trees, whose leaves are the food of the worms. And therefore we have thought good thereby to let you understand, that although in suffering this invention to take place, we do show ourselves somewhat an adversary to our profit, which is the matter of our customs for silk brought from beyond the Seas, will receive some dimunition: Nevertheless, when there is question of so great and public utility, to come to our Kingdom and Subjects in general; and whereby (besides multitudes of people of both Sexes and all Ages) such as in regard of impotency are unfit for other labour, may be set on work, comforted, and relieved; we are content that our private benefit shall give way to the public; and therefore being persuaded that no well-affected Subject will refuse to put his helping hand to such a work as can have no other private end in us, but the desire of the welfare of our people, we have thought good in this Form only to require you (as a Person of greatest Authority in that County, and from whom the generality may receive notice of our pleasure with more conveniency than otherwise) to take occasion either at the Quarter-Sessions, or at some other public place of meeting, to persuade and require such as are of ability, (without descending to trouble the poor, for whom we seek to provide) to buy and distribute in that County, the number of ten thousand Mulberry-plants, which shall be delivered unto them at our City of, etc. at the rate of three farthings the plant; or at 6 s. the hundred, containing five score plants. And because the buying of the said plants at this rate may at the first seem chargeable to our said Subjects, (whom we would be loath to burden) we have taken order that in March or April next, there shall be delivered at the said place a good quantity of Mulberry-seeds, there to be sold to such as will buy them; by means whereof the said plants will be delivered at a smaller rate than they can be afforded being carried from hence: having resolved also in the mean time, that there shall be published in print a plain Instruction and Direction, both for the increasing of the said Mulberry-trees, the breeding of the Silkworms, and all other things needful to be understood, for the perfecting of a work every way so commendable and profitable, as well to the planter, as to those that shall use the trade. Having now made known unto you the Motives as they stand with the public good wherein every man is interested; because we know how much the example of our own Deputy Lieutenants and Justices will further this cause; if you and other your neighbours will be content to take some good quantities hereof, to distribute upon your own lands, we are content to acknowledge thus much more in this direction of ours; that all things of this nature tending to Plantation, increase of science, and works of industry, are things so naturally pleasing to our own disposition, as we shall take it for an argument of extraordinary affection towards our person; besides, the judgement we shall make of the good dispositions in all those that shall express in any kind their ready minds to further the same; and shall esteem that in furthering the same, they seek to further our honour and contentment (having seen in few years past, that our Brother the French King, hath since his coming to the Crown, both begun and brought to perfection the making of Silks in his Country, where he hath won to himself honour, and to his Subjects a marvellous increase of wealth) would account it no little happiness to us, if the same work which we begun among our people, with no less zeal to their good, (than any Prince can have to the good of theirs) might in our time produce the fruits which there it hath done: whereof we nothing doubt, if ours will be found as tractable and apt to further their own good, now the way is showed them by us their Sovereign, as those of France have been to conform themselves to the direction of their King. Given under our Signet at our Palace of Westminster, the sixteenth of November, in the sixth year of England, France, and Ireland, and of Scotland the two and fortieth.  

Instructions for the increase and planting of Mulberry-trees. What ground is fit for the Mulberry-seeds, how the same is to be ordered, and in what sort the seeds are to be sowed therein.  
THe ground which ought to be appointed for this purpose, besides the natural goodness of it, must be reasonably well dunged, and withal so situated, as that the heat of the Sun may cherish it, and the nipping blasts of either the North wind or the East, may not annoy it: the choice thereof thus made; that the seeds may the better prosper, and come up after they be sown, you shall dig it two foot deep, breaking the clods as small as may be, and afterward you shall divide the same into several Beds of not above five foot in breadth, so that you shall not need to endanger the plants by treading upon them, when either you water or weed them.  
The Mulberry-seeds you shall lay in water for the space of 22 hours, and after that you shall dry them again half dry, or somewhat more, that when you sow them they may not cleave together: Thus done, you must cast them upon the foresaid Beds, not altogether so thick as you use to do other Garden-seeds, and then cover them with some fine earth (passed through a Sieve) about half an inch thick. In dry weather you shall water them every two days at the furthest, as likewise the plants that shall come of them: and keep them as clean from weeds as possibly you can.  
The time in which you ought to sow them for your best advantage, is either in March, April, or May, when frosts are either altogether past, or at the least not so sharp, or of so long continuance, as to endanger their upspring.  
There is yet another way to sow them, and that is as followeth: you shall (being directed by a strait line) make certain furrows in the Beds above mentioned of some four fingers deep, and about a foot in distance the one from the other: After this, you shall open the earth with your hands, on either side of the aforesaid furrows, some two fingers from the bottom, and where you have so opened it, shall you sow your seeds; and then cover them half a finger thick with the earth which you opened.   

When the Plants that are sprung up of the Seeds, are to be removed, and how they are to be planted the first time.  
IN the months of September, October, November, December, March, or April, the next year after the Seeds are sown, you may remove their plants, (or in the month of January, if it be not in frosty weather) and set them in the like Beds as before, and about one foot the one from the other, but first you must cut off their roots, about eight inches in length, and their tops about half a foot above the roots, more or less, according to the strength of the said plants; for the weaker they be the less tops you shall leave them. In this sort you may suffer them to remain (weeding & watering them as need shall require) till they be grown 6 foot in length above their roots, whereunto when once they have attained, you may cut their tops, and suffer them to spread, always having a care to take away the many branches or succours, that may any way hinder their growth, until they be come to their full length of 6 foot, as aforesaid.   

When, and how the Plants are to be removed the second time, and in what manner they are to be planted where they shall remain.  
IN the months aforesaid, (according as your plants are waxen strong,) you may remove them either into the hedges of your fields, or into any other grounds. If in hedges, you must set them sixteen foot the one from the other, if in other ground, intending to make a Wood of them eighteen foot at the the least. But a month before you do remove them, you must make the holes (wherein you purpose to set them) about four foot in breadth, and so deep as that their roots may be well covered, and some half a foot of loose earth left under them, having always a special care so to place them, that they may receive the benefit of the Sun, and not to be shadowed or overspread by any neighbouring trees.   

When, and how the Eggs of the Silkworms are to be hatched, and how to order the Worms that shall come of them.  
WHen the leaves of Mulberry-trees begin a little to bud forth, take the Eggs of your Silkworms, and lay them in a piece of Say, or such like stuff, and in the day time carry them in some warm place about you, in a little safe box, but in the night either lay them in your bed, or between two warm pillows, until such time as the Worms begin to come forth: then take a piece of paper of the wideness of the said box, and having cut it full of small holes, lay it within the same upon the eggs, and upon that again some few Mulberry-leaves, to which the Worms as they are hatched, will continually come. These leaves with the Worms upon them, you must still remove into other boxes, laying fresh leaves as well on those that are removed as on the paper where the eggs are; and this is the course which must be duly kept and observed, until such times as all the Worms be come forth of their shells, still keeping their boxes warm, as aforesaid; but no longer about you, but until the Worms begin to come forth, out of which boxes you may safely take them, when once they have passed their second sickness, and feed them upon shelves of two two foot in breadth, and eighteen inches one above the other.  
The said shelves are not to be placed in any ground-room, nor yet next unto the tiles, but in some middle room of your house which openeth upon the North and South, that you may the more conveniently give them either heat or air, according as the time and season shall require. Besides, you must not make them close unto the Walls, but so as you may pass about them the better to look unto the Worms, and keep them from Rats and Mice, which otherwise might devour them. You must observe the times of their coming forth, and keep every one or two day's hatching by themselves, that you may the better understand their several sicknesses or sleepings, which are four in the time of their feeding. The first commonly some twelve days after they are hatched, and from that time at the end of every eight days, according to the weather, and their good or ill usage, during which time of every sickness, which lasteth two or three days, you must feed them but very little, as only to relieve such of them, as shall have passed their sickness before the rest, and those that shall not fall into their sickness so soon.  
The whole time that the Worms do feed, is about nine weeks, whereof until they come unto their first sickness, give them young Mulberry-leaves twice every day, but few at a time, from thence until their second sickness, twice every day in greater quantity; and so from their second to their third sickness, increasing the quantity of the leaves, according as you perceive the Worms to grow in strength, and clear of sickness: from the third until their fourth sickness, you may give them leaves thrice every day, and the fourth being past, you may let them have so many as they will eat, always having a care that you give them none▪ but such as are dry, and well aired upon a Table or Cloth, before they be laid upon them, and withal gathered so near as may be; at such times as either the Sun or Wind hath cleared them of the dew that falleth upon them.  
For the feeding of Worms you need observe no other order then this, lay the Mulberry-leaves upon them, and every two or three days remove them, and make clean their boxes, or shelves, unless in times of their sickness, for than they are not to be touched: the leaves which you take from them when you give them fresh to feed upon, you must lay in some convenient place, and upon them a few new leaves, to which the Worms that lay hidden in the cold, will come, and then you may pass them with the said new leaves to the rest of the Worms: And now lest any thing should be omitted, which serves to perfect the discovery of so excellent a benefit, I will advise you to be very diligent in keeping clean their Boxes, or shelves, as being a special means whereby to preserve them; wherefore when you intent to do it, you shall remove them together with the uppermost leaves whereon they lie, unto other boxes or shelves, for with your hands you may not touch them, till they have throughly undergone their third sickness, and then may you pass them gently with clean hands, without doing them any harm: provided that the party that cometh near them smell not of Garlic, Onions, or the like. The first five weeks of their age you must be very careful to keep them warm, and in time of rain or cold weather, to set in the room where they remain, a pan with coals burning in it, now and then some Juniper, Benjamin, and such like, that yieldeth sweet smells. But afterwards unless in time of extraordinary cold, give them air, and take heed of keeping them too hot, being always mindful to store the room with herbs and flowers which are delightful and pleasing to the smell. As the worms increase in bigness, you shall disperse them abroad upon more boards or shelves, and not suffer them to lie too thick together, and if you find any of them broken, or of a yellow glistering colour inclining to sickness, cast them away, lest they infect the rest, and sort such as are not sick, the greatest and strongest by themselves, for so the lesser will prosper the better.   

When and how to make fit rooms for the worms to work their bottoms of silk in, and in what sort the said bottoms are to be used.  
AS soon as by the clear amber-coloured bodies of your worms, you shall perceive them ready to give their silk, you must (with Heath made very clean, or with the branches of Rosemary, the stalks of Lavender, or such like) make Arches between the foresaid shelves.  
Upon the branches and sprigs whereof, the worms will fasten themselves, and make their bottoms, which in fourteen days after the worm beginneth to work them, you may take away; and those which you are minded to use for the best silk, you must either presently wind, or kill the worms which are within them, by laying the said bottoms two or three days in the Sun, or in some Oven after the bread baked therein is taken out, and the fierceness of the heat is alaid. The other bottoms which you intent to keep for seed, you must lay in some convenient warm place, until the Worms come forth, which is commonly some sixteen or twenty days from the beginning of their work: and as they do come forth you must put them together upon some piece of old Say; Grogeran, the backside of old Velvet, or the like, made fast against some wall, or hangings in your house.  
There they will engender, and the Male having spent himself, falleth down, and in short time after dieth, as also doth the Female when she hath laid her eggs, which eggs, when you perceive them upon the Say, or Grogeran, etc. to be of a grayish colour, you may take them off gently with a knife, and having put them in a piece of Say, or such like, keep them in a covered box amongst your woollen clothes, or the like, till the year following: But not in any moist room, for it is hurtful for them, neither where there is too much heat, lest the worms should be hatched before you can have any food for them.  
The making of a Wheel, as likewise the way to wind the said silk from the bottoms, can hardly be set down so plainly, as to be rightly understood: Wherefore when time shall serve, there shall be sent into every County of this Kingdom, a wheel ready made, and a man that shall instruct all such as are desirous to learn the use thereof: 
15. Deficiency, concerning the Husbandry of other places.  Till when, I shill commend these brief instructions to be carefully considered of all such as are willing either to benefit themselves, or their Country, that being skilful in the Contemplation, they may the readier, and with less error apply themselves to Action, which painful industry, with God's assistance, will quickly perfect.  
15. Deficiency is the ignorance of the Husbandry of other places, (viz.) what seeds, what fruits, what grasses they use, what Ploughs, Harrows, Gardening-tools they have; how still they manage and improve their lands; what cattle they have, how they feed and fatten them, and how they improve their commodities, etc.  
For there is no Country where they are such ill Husbandmen, but in some particular or other they excel: as we see even in the several Counties of this Island, every County hath something or other wherein they outstrip their Neighbours. And that much profit may arise from hence in this Nation, is manifested by that excellent Treatise, which is published by you concerning the Husbandry of Flanders; wherein are briefly set down divers particulars very useful for us here in England, and formerly unknown. And without question, Franco, Spain, Italy, Holland, Poland, Germany, etc. have many excellent things both for Husbandry, Physic, Mechanics, worth the manifesting and very beneficial to us: so likewise there are divers things in our Plantations worth the taking notice of in Husbandry. To pass by the Southern Plantations, as Barbadoes, Antego, Saint Croix, Christopher, Mevis, Monforate, where the commodities are only Cotten-wools, Sugars, Gingers, Indicoes, which our cold climate will not produce; and also Tobacco which groweth also with us, about Norwich, and elsewhere: We will only fall upon our Northern Plantations, Virginia, New-England, and instance in a few things. Why may not the Silk-grass of Virginia, the Salsaperilla, Sassarfas, Rattl●snake-weed (which is an excellent cordial) be beneficial to us, as also their Cedars, Pines, Plumtrees, Cherries, great Strawberries, and their Locusts, (which is a prickly plant, a swift grower, and therefore excellent for hedges) be useful to us? So for New-England, why should we think that the Indian corn, the March wheat, that excellent Rye, the Pease (which never are eaten with maggots,) the French, or Kidney-Beans, the Pumpions, Squashnes, Water-mellons, Musk-melons, Hurtleberries, wild Hemp, Fir, etc. of those parts are altogether useless for us? as also the Cramberries, (which are so called by the Indians, but by the English, Bearberries, because it is thought the Bears eat them in winter; or Barberries, by reason of their fine acid taste like Barberries,) which is a fruit as big & as red as a Cherry, ripe only in the Winter, and growing close to the ground in bogs, where nothing else will grow? They are accounted very good against the Scurvy, and very pleasant in Tarts. I know not a more excellent and healthfuller fruit.  
But some will object, that they will not grow here with us, our forefathers never used them. To these I reply, and ask them how they know? have they tried? Idleness never wants an excuse; and why might not our forefathers upon the same ground, have held their hands in their pockets, and have said, that Wheat and Barley would not have grown amongst us? and why should not they have been discouraged from planting Cherries, Hops, Liquorice, Potatoes, Apricocks, Peaches, Melicotones, and from sowing Rape-seeds, Colliflowers, Great Clover, Canary-seeds, etc. and many more of this kind? and yet we know, that most of these have been brought to perfection, even in our days: for there is a vicissitude in all things, and as many things are lost which were known to our forefathers, as the Purple colour, etc. as you may read in Pancirol: so many things are found out by us, altogether unknown to them, and some things will be left for our posterities. For example, not to speak of Gunpowder and Printing, nor of the New-world and the wonders there, which notwithstanding are but of a few hundred years standing: I say twenty Ingenuities have been found even in our days, as Watches, Clocks, Way-wisers, Chains for Fleas, divers Mathematical Instruments, Short-writing, Microscopes, by the which even the smallest things may be discerned, as the eggs, eyes, legs, and hair of a Mite in a Cheese: Likewise the Selenoscope, which discovereth mountains in the Moon, divers Stars, and new Planets, never seen till our days. But to return to our purpose, I say that in Husbandry it is even so; for the Ancients used divers plants which we know not; as the Cytisus-tree, so much commended for cattle; as also their Medick-fodder, which Colum saith endureth ten years, and may be mown the four first years, seven times in a year, and one Acre he esteemeth enough for three horses. This fodder likewise is accounted very sweet and healthful, whereas the plants which are usually called Medicats with us, are annual plants, and have no such rare proprieties. So we are ignorant what their Far or fine Bread Corn was, what their Lupine, Spury, and an hundred of this kind, as you may read in Mathiol. on Dioscorides: so on the contrary, infinite are the Plants which we have, and they knew not, as well appeareth by their small and our large Herbals: and daily new Plants are discovered, useful for Husbandry, Mechanics and Physic; and therefore let no man be discouraged from prosecuting new and laudable ingenuities. And I desire Ingenious Gentlemen and Merchants, who travel beyond Sea, to take notice of the Husbandry of those parts (viz) what grains they sow? at what times and seasons? on what lands? how they plough their lands? how they dung and improve them? what cattle they use? and the commodities thereby? also what books are written of Husbandry, and such like? and I entreat them earnestly, not to think these things too low for them, and out of their callings; nay, I desire them to count nothing trivial in this kind, which may be profitable to their Country, and advance knowledge. And truly, I should thank any Merchant that could inform me in some trivial and ordinary things done beyond Sea, (viz.) how they make Caviar out of Sturgeons Rows? in Muscovia, how they boil and pickle their Sturgeon, (which we English in New-England cannot as yet do handsomely?) how the Bolog●ia Sausages are made? how they ferment their Bread without Yeast? of what materials divers sorts of Baskets, Brooms, Frails are made? what seed Grout or Grutze is made of? and also how to make the Parmisane Cheeses of Italy, which are usually sold here for 2 s. or 2 s. 6 d. per pound; or the Angelot's of France, which are accounted better Cheeses than any made in England; as also the Holland Cheeses, which are far better than our ordinary Cheeses, and yet these sorts of Cheeses are made not of Mare's milk, as some think, but from the Cows, and our Pastures are not inferior to theirs, etc.  
2. I desire ingenious men to send home whatsoever they have rare of all sorts; as first, Animals, the fine-woolled sheep of Spain, Barbary Horses, Spanish Jennets, etc. and so likewise all sorts of Vegetables, not growing with us, as Panic, Millet, Rice, which groweth in the Fenny places of Milan, and France; and why may it not grow in our Fens, and the best sorts of Grains or Fruits in use amongst them? perhaps there is Wheat that is not subject to Smut or Mildew; perhaps other seeds will give double increase, as Flax, Oats, Pease; and divers other things of importance there are beyond Sea, which may be useful to us; as the Askeys, the Cork, Acorns, the Scarlet-Oak, sweet-Annise, which groweth abundantly in Milan, Fennel, etc. Tilia or Linder-tree for baste Ropes, etc. Spruce Pines for Masts and Board's, seeing that they are swift growers, and many will stand in a small piece of ground: they have formerly grown here, and some few do flourish in our Gardens, and in Scotland. I suppose that this aught seriously to be considered: for although we have plenty of Oaks, yet what will it profit for Shipping without Masts? and how difficult it is to get great Masts above 22 inches diameter, is very well known. Many things I might add of this kind, but for brevity's sake I refer you to Master John Tredescan, who hath taken great pains herein, and daily raiseth new and curious things.  
3. Consider that these new Ingenuities may be profitable, no only to the Public, but also to Private men: as we see by those who first planted Cherries, Hops, Liquorice, Saffron, and first sowed Rape-seeds, Colliflowers, Woad, Would, Early Pease, Assparagus, Melons, Tulips, Gillyflowers, etc. and why may we not find some things beneficial to us also? 
16. Deficiency, of the ignorance of things taken from the earth and waters of this Island.   
16. Deficiency is the ignorance of those things which are taken from the Earth and Waters of this Island.  
Although it may seem to many that these things do little concern the Husbandman, who usually is not a Naturalist, but only endeavoureth to know his own grounds and the seeds proper for it, and seldom pierceth into the bowels of the earth: yet if we consider that out of the earth he hath Marle, Lime, Stone, Chalk, for the enriching his lands; and also Loam and Sand for his buildings: often times fuel for fire, etc. it will plainly appear, that it is necessary for him to know all subterrany things, and to be a Petty-Phylosopher, and that the knowledge of these things will be very beneficial for him. And here I cannot but take notice of a great deficiency amongst us, (viz.) that we have not the natural history of all the Sands, Earth, Stones, Mines, Minerals, etc. which are found in this Island: it would not only advance Husbandry, but also many other Mechanic Arts, and bring great profit to the public. I hope some ingenious man will at length undertake this task; for the Lord hath blessed this Island with as great variety as any place that is known, as shall in part appear anon; and it may be proved by that great variety which is found near the Spaw-waters in Knaresborough, as Doctor Dean relateth in his Book called the English Spa: Or the glory of Knaresborough springing from several famous Fountains there adjacent, (called the Vitriol, sulphurous and dropping Wells) and also other Mineral waters, whose words are these: Here is found not only white and yellow Marle, Plaster, Ochre, Rudd, Rubric, Freestone, an hard Greet-stone, a soft Reddish-stone, Ironstone, Brimstone, Vitriol, Niter, Alum, Led, and Copper: (and without doubt divers mixtures of these) but also many other Minerals might (perhaps) be found out by the diligent search and industry of those who would take pains to labour a little herein.  
Printed at York by Thomas Broad, being to be sold in his shop at the lower end of Stone-gate, near to Common-Hall Gates, 1649.  
This Letter will not permit me to make a complete Natural History of the things of this Isle; yet I shall relate divers things which may be as hints to set some others to work, which I have found in Mr. Cambden and others: and shall briefly instruct the Husbandman what he ought to take notice of, for his own and others good. And first, if he live nigh the Sea, let him take notice of those things the Sea casteth up; for it hath even with us, and also in Ireland, cast up Ambergris, which is worth so much Gold; with the which not long since a Fisherman of Plymouth greased his boots, not knowing what it was: sometimes it casteth up Jet and Amber, as at Whitbey often times. In former times we had Oysters which had very fair great Pearls in them of good worth; and at this time some of them are found in Denbighshire; Coperas-stone likewise is found along by the Seacoasts of Kent, Essex, Sussex, Hampshire, out of the which Corporas is made, a thing very useful for Dyers, Curriers etc. Further Seaweeds are not to be slighted; for in Jersey they have no other fuel amongst them; and here in England it is burnt to make Kelp for Glassemen, and is also very good manure for divers Lands; also Sea-owse is not only good to lay on Land, but at Dover, and other places, the Inhabitants make Brick thereof, called Flanders-Bricks, etc. Sea-sands in Cornwall do very much enrich their Lands; and in Lancashire out of a certain kind of Sand they extract Salt, etc.  
2. Let him take notice of all sorts of Waters, which issue forth of the earth, differing from the ordinary, in Colour, Odour, Taste: for it is well known how advantageous these waters are, oftentimes, not only to particular men, but also to the Country about; yea to the whole Island, as appeareth by the waters of Tunbridge in Kent, and of Epsham in Surrey, Knaresborough, etc. Spa in Yorkshire, and by the Allum-waters in Newenham in Warwickshire, like Milk in taste and colour, and are excellent for the Stone and wounds; and also it appeareth by the salt Fountains in Worcestershire and Cheshire, which furnish all those parts with an excellent fine white salt: by the hot Baths in Summersetshire, and the lukewarm waters by Bristol, etc. At Pitchford in Shropshire is a Fountain which casteth forth liquid Bitumen, which the people use for Pitch, etc.  
3. Let him not despise the sorts of Sands which he findeth: for some Sands are for buildings, as the rough sorts; others for scouring others for casting fine metals, as Highgate-sand; others for the Glassemen, as a sand lately found in Sussex. In Scotland there is a sand, which containeth a considerable quantity of Gold: and in divers Country's fine Gold aboundeth very much in sands; and if we may believe an excellent Dutch Chemist, there is scarce any sand without it.  
4. Let him take notice of the Earth, Loams, Clayes, etc. which have divers and necessary uses: as first, the stiffest Clays, as Newcastle and Nonsuch, are for the Glassemens' Pots, for Crucibles, melting-pots: the less stiff for ordinary Earthen wares, Brewers, Tiles, Bricks, etc. white Clay is for Tobacco-pipes: Marle of divers colours and stiffness is excellent for Husbandmen: Fullers-Earth is found in Kent, Surrey, and lately in divers other places, for the great benefit of the Clothier: Rub and Rubric in Yorkshire, as also divers other in Oxford and Glocestershire, excellent for Painters, etc. Turf for firing may be found in most parts of this Isle, if people were industrious: necessity now and then compelleth them to be inquisitive, as it did lately at Oxford and Kent, where it is found in good quantity. In Holland they have little fuel, save what is taken out of their ditches; and therefore it is truly said, that their firing is as it were fished out of the water, and it's indifferent good fuel: Coals are found in very many places, yet divers places are in great want of them.  
5. Let him take notice of the several stones found in this Isle; as of Freestones for building, Cobbels and rough hard stones for paving, Tombstones; soft sandy stones commonly called fire-stones, because they will endure strong fires, and therefore fit for Iron furnaces; and this propriety these soft stones have, that when they are white hot, a steel instrument will scarce touch them to hurt them. Alabaster is found at Burton on the Trent, and in Staffordshire, and at Titbury Castle: excellent Marble at Snothil in Herefordshire: a course Marble near Oxford; in Kent, also at Purbrick in Dorsetshire, Millstones in Auglesey, in Flintshire, Darbyshire, Lime-stones: Chalk in very many places for divers uses: Allum-stone is found in Anglesey, but especially at Gisborrow in Yorkshire, where the Alum works are, which serve this Island: Lapu Cslaminaris is lately found in Somersetshire, by the which Copper is made brass: Manganese for those that make white glass, lately found in the North: the best Emery for polishing Iron in Jersey: Plaster at Knaresborough: Black-lead in Cumberland: and no where else in Europe: There is a stone in Durham out of which they make salt; Diamonds are found about Bristol and Cornwall very large, but soft: There is a stone near Beaver Castle like a Star. In Yorkshire another like a Serpent petrified: and also other stones round like bullets, which being broken have as it were a Serpent in them without an head, etc.  
6. Of all Minerals and Metals, Ironstone is found almost in every County, and is profitable where Wood is plentiful: the best is found in Laneashire, one load and an half making a Tun of Iron: it hath been transported into Ireland, to mix with poor Mine. In Richard the seconds time a Copper-Mine was found in Wenlock in Shrepshire, but exhausted: in Queen Elizabeth's days one was found at Keswick in Cumberland: and ately in Staffordshire, Yorkshire, and near Barstable in Devonshire: on which some Gentlemen intent speedily to work: Lead is found in Durham, Wales, and Devonshire; Brimstone in Yorkshire and Wales, Antimony in Staffordshire: a silver Mine in Cardiganshire: a gold Mine was discovered in Scotland in King James his time: and many rich Mines might be discovered in England, if that the King's Prerogative (which was to take all Royal Mines to himself, (viz.) Silver, Gold, & Copper,) were so cerainly abolished, that they which should find these Metals in their own Lands, might safely dig them. But some will object & say, that many things are of little worth and profit. To these I answer, that God hath made nothing in vain, every thing hath his peculiar use, and though some things seem to be of little worth and contemptible, as Sand, Loam, Chalk; yet it hath pleased the wise Creator to make these things very necessary for man's comfortable subsistence, which they that want these things can testify. As for example, in New-England, where there is no Chalk nor Limestone, they are compelled to burn Oyster-shels, Cockles, to make Lime; or else they could hardly build any houses. The like I may say of Sand and Loam in divers places, where they are wanting.  
2. I say that most of those things I have spoken of, are very profitable in one place or other. To instance in some of the meaner sort, at London Brickmen give 50 li. per Acre, only for Loam to make Bricks, and pay 3 li. per Acre, of yearly Rent, and are to leave the Land worth the same yearly Rent; likewise I know a Chalk-cliff in Kent not two Acres of ground, valued at many an hundred pound, and that one Colum of Chalk which is ten foot square, is valued at forty or fifty pound at 8 d. per load. The Ochre Mines of Oxford and Glocestershire are of great value, and so would others of that kind, if they could be found; so is the Black-lead Mine. Also the pits of Clay, Marle, Coale, Turf, etc. And therefore I desire all Country men to endeavour to know all sorts of Stones, Clays, Earth's, Oars, and to teach their Children the use of them, that they may know that this sand is for building, this Loam is for Bricks, this Clay for Pots, this Marl for Corn-land: and if that they shall find any Stones, Earth's, which they know not, that they would lay them up, till that they meet with some ingenious man, that can inform them. The richest Mines of the world have been found out by these means, if we will believe Histories. And this I am sure of, that by this means they may much advance their knowledge, and be more profitable to the Public, their Neighbours, and also to themselves.  
17. Deficiency, is the ignorance of the Vegetables of this Island, 
17. Deficiency, of the Vegetables of this Island and their Virtues & Uses.  and their Virtues and Uses.  
And the first Deficiency that I take notice of, is the ignorance of the ordinary seeds which are commonly sown amongst us: for usually the Countryman contenteth himself with one or two sorts, and knoweth no more, when as there are very great varieties; some of which agree with one sort of ground, some with another: As for example, there are very many sorts of Wheats, some called White Wheat, some Red Wheat, some Bearded; (which, as I have said before, is not so subject to Mildews as others) others not: some sorts with two rows, others with four, and six: some with one ear on a stalk, others with double ears, or two on the same stalk; Red-stalk Wheat of Buckinghamshire, Winter Wheat, Summer Wheat, which is sown abundantly in New-England, in April and May, and reaped ordinarily in three months; and many sorts more. Not to trouble my discourse with Spelt, Zea, Tiphine-Wheat, or Olew, Far, Sil●go, Alica, which were used amongst the Ancients; but now unknown not only to the Countryman, but even to the learnedest Botanics: so I may say that the ordinary Yeoman is ignorant of the diversities of Barley's, for there is not only the ordinary Barley, but big sprat-Barley, which hath lately been sown in Kent with good profit; also Winter-Barley sown in Winter, Barley with four, six rows, naked Barley, which require divers dispositions in Land: some delighting in finer, others in stiffer grounds. So there is also Winter and Summer-Rie, and twenty sorts of Pease, the ordinary show, the Raith or Early-ripe Pease, the Roncivals, Hastivers, Hotarses, Gray-Pease, Green-Pease, Pease without skins, Sugar-Pease, whose shells are sweeter than the Pease itself, and have been within these ten years plentifully sown in Lincolnshire with profit; also Fulham, Sandwich-Pease, etc. which require divers sorts of lands and seasons: so also there are divers sorts of Oats, white, black, naked, which in New-England serveth well for Oatmel without grinding, being beaten as they come out of the Barn; Scotch, Poland, etc. Also Buck-wheat, Lentiles; divers sorts of Tares, of Hemp and Flax, altogether unknown to most Countrymen, but I hope that hereafter they will be more inquisitive after them: for divers of them may be of good use on their lands.  
2. Deficiency in this kind is, that they are ignorant of the Plants and Grasses which naturally grow amongst us, and their Uses, which likewise were made for to be food for cattle, and also for the service of man. This ignorance causeth them to admire, and to esteem even as miraculous, ordinary and trivial things; as for example, how it cometh to pass, that in one Meadow an Horse thriveth very much and speedily, and yet a Bullock will not in that place; and chose in a Meadow close by the former, the Bullock will thrive, and the Horse not: so also how it cometh to pass that Coneys and Sheep will thrive well, where there is scarcely any pasture, and yet come to nothing on Commons, where there is a greater quantity of pasture; which proceedeth from this cause, that some kind of Plants are more agreeing and sweeter to one sort of cattle then to another, and every Beast almost hath some Plant or other which they love exceedingly. I suppose, that the observances of this kind, might be very useful in Husbandry. These Deficiencies I will draw to three Heads.  
1. I say, that divers Plants (not to speak of Fruits, because we have already spoken of them) that grow naturally in our Island, may be very serviceable to the Husbandman, both for his Pastures and Corn-lands. To instance in some few: we see that divers sorts of wild Vetches, Chiches, Tares, etc. grow wild in divers places which though they bear not so great and large crops, as some others already used; yet who knoweth what they would do, if they were manured as other grains, and in land proper for them: for we see that the transplanting of plants into gardens, doth very much meliorate or better them; and without doubt all those grains, which are in use with us, were at first picked out of the fields and woods; and by ingenious men found useful for man and beast, and of late divers have been found not known to our forefathers, as Saint Foin, Lucern; and why may not we find divers Grasses, Vetches, Medicaes, Wild Pease, etc. which as yet are scarce taken notice of.  
2. There grow divers sorts of wild Pease, but to speak of two only.  
1. Sort which groweth on the stony Beaches of the Sea, where there is little or no earth, the roots are many foot deep in the ground. In Queen Mary's days in a dearth, the poor people gathered divers sacks full of them, and they were no small relief to them, who hath tried whether they would thrive better on better land?  
2. Sort groweth on dry barren land, and is commonly called the everlasting Pease; which continually groweth out of the same root. In Gardens I have seen it grow ten years together, and larger at the ten years' end, then at the first. I have also seen it flourish on barren grounds, where Oats were burned away: who knoweth but these and other Plants may be serviceable, if not for man, at least for beasts or pigeons: for in New-England the great flights of Pigeons are much maintained by these, I am sure it were good to make experiments of these and divers others.  
2. Head, is the Ignorance of the Mechanical uses of Herbs and Trees; for even for these uses most Plants have some peculiar propriety. To instance in a few, We know that Elm is for Wheels; and the best wood to make Herrings red, Oak is for Shipwright, joiner, Tanner; Hornbeams, Beech, for Milwright; Line-tree for Bass-ropes; old Elder without pitch is very tough and fit for Clogs of Wheels, Tooth-Pickers; Pear-tree for Mathematical instruments and ingravers, etc. Osiers for baskets; Walnut for Gunstocks; Asp for Hoops, Box, Ash for an hundred uses; and much more might be spoken of this kind, if time would permit. So likewise divers Plants are for Painters, as you may see in Battees experiments: some for the Dyers, but as yet we know but four, (viz. Woad, Would, Green-wood, and Madder) amongst 1200 Plants and upward; which grow wild with us. I could wish some ingenious man would take the pains to search out the Mechanical uses of Plants; surely it were a good way to advance Mechanics, who in their callings usually go round; as horses in a mill, and endeavour very little to advance or know the causes of their operations. I know a Gentleman, who promiseth some things in this kind, and I hope will be as good as his word.  
3. Head, is the ignorance of the Physical uses of the Plants for though many hundred Plants do grow amongst us: yet but few of them are used Physically: whereas there is scarce any one but may be useful in this kind. And truly in my opinion it is a great fault that we so much admire those things, that are far fetched, and dear bought; when as oftentimes they are gathered in unseasonable times, and corrupted by long voyages by Sea, counterfeited by Merchants; yea we have very oft quid pro quo, and rank poisons, and neglect those medicines which God hath given us here at home. I am credibly informed that in former times, Virga aurea was in great use with us, and usually sold for eight pence per ounce, and brought from France: but so soon as it was found growing plentifully in our hedges, it was cast forth of the Apothecary's shops, as of little virtue. And though some will object that our Plants have little virtue: I say it's false; for God hath tempered them for our complexions: and we see very oft that one simple medicine doth more good than the great compositions of the Ancients, which are rather ad pompam, then for health, and seem to savour somewhat of the Mountebank, because Opium is always an ingredient. And further we see that where any Endemical or National disease reigneth, there God hath also planted a specifique for it: As the Cochleare, or the Scurvygrasse for the Scurvy; in the Baltic Sea, where it is very frequent, and also in Holland, England. So in the West-Indies, (from whence the great Pox first came, and where it reigneth very much, that not only man but other Creatures are infected with it, so that even Dogs die of that disease in our Northern Plantations, perhaps catching this infection, by mingling with Indian Dogs) there grow the specifiques for this Disease, as Gujacum, Salsaperilla, Sassafras, and the Savages, do easily cure these distempers. Further we see, that even the irrational creatures can find not only meat, but also medicines for themselves; as the Dog, Couch-grass for a vomit: the Dove, Vervein; the Weasel, Rue; the Swallow, Celandine, the Toad Plantine; and where is our reason that we cannot?  
I therefore desire all Country people, to endeavour to know these Plants which grow at their doors: (for God hath not planted them there for no purpose; for he doth nothing in vain) and to collect together the plain simple Medicaments of their Grandam; by this means they may save many a forty pence: I mean preserve themselves and Families, and Neighbours, in good health with little charge. Some small Treatises have of late been written, to show the use of our Plants in Physic; and I hope ingenious men will daily more and more communicate the secrets of this kind, which they have in their hands for the Public good.  
They that write of fourfooted beasts, do reckon about an hundred and twenty species of them half of them are scarcely known amongst us. 
18. Deficiency, concerning Animals.  I do suppose therefore, that divers species are wanting, which may be useful. To instance in some: And  
1. To begin with the Elephant, the greatest, wisest, and longest lived of all Beasts: which abound very much in the Eastern parts of the world; as China, India, and are accounted very serviceable, both for the Wars, and for carriage, (fifteen men usually riding on his back together) they are not chargeable to keep; why may they not be of use even here, when I am credibly informed, an Elephant lived divers years here in a a Park? so that they can endure the coldness of this Climate.  
2. The Buffle, which is as big as an Ox, and serviceable both for the Plough, and for their Milk: their skins make the best buff, they will far very hard and live in Fens and Bogs, where nothing else can. In the Duke of Fl●rences Country near Pisa, are many of them.  
3. The honest and patient Ass, which was very much used in the old time for carriage, (as the Horse for War, and the Ox for the Plough,) and in many Countries at this time; they will eat Thistles, and live even with nothing. They may save poor men (who are not able to keep an Horse, because he is a great feeder,) much labour.  
4. Mules, which is a very strong and proud beast, and will carry far more than an Horse, and are more sure footed. I suppose, that they might be serviceable to the Carriers here, as they are beyond the Seas. In Ireland before the War, a Gentleman G. R. had divers, even in the North, and found them serviceable. Five Camels, which will carry great burdens: their hair is the ground of Mo-hair. Six Dromedaries, which go swiftly, etc. Seven Black Foxes, may be profitable; whose skins have been sold from 20 l. per skin, to 90 l. I might add divers more of this kind: as Musk-Cats, Sables, Martin's, Minx, Musk-Squash, Guiney-Pigs, and a sort of Coney, which some few have in Hampshire, whose Fur is worth 2 s. 6 d. or 3 s. per skin, being little inferior to Beave●, etc. but for brevity's sake I pass them over: as also divers sorts of Fowls, of good use; as a kind of Duck with a crooked bill, which layeth constantly as Hens do, as also Hawks of divers sorts of good value, which perhaps the Countryman loveth not; because they are enemies to his Poultry.  
2. Deficiency is, That we do not endeavour to advance the best kinds of the cattle, which are amongst us. And  
1. To begin with Horses. The Frenchman that writeth a Book called, the Treasure-Polick, saith, that in England in Queen Elizabeth's days, we had not above three or four thousand Horse worth any thing for the War, and those only in Nobleman's stables, which thing perhaps did the more encourage the Spaniard to invade us; but at this time we are known to have very many thousand of Horse not inferior to the best in the world: yet I suppose, that we might much meliorate our breed by Spanish Jenneti, Barbary, etc. And we are not so careful to increase good horses as we should be.  
2. We are too negligent in our Kine, that we advance not the best species: for some sorts give abundance of milk, and better than others: some sorts are larger, more hardy, and will sooner fat, etc. Lancashire, and some few Northern Counties, are the only places where they are a little careful in these particulars.  
3. We are not curious in procuring the best sorts of sheep, for greatness, soundness, and fine wool. I wonder that some Sheep-masters have not procured of those exceeding fine-wooled sheep of Spain; whose wool costeth the Merchant nigh 10 s. per pound, before it is exported: I suppose that it would for a time mend our wool, if not continue so for ever: for these sheep were first carried forth out of England, if we may believe stories, Spain not affording such sheep before. Dutch-sheep are reported to have two or three Lambs ordinarily. Turky-sheep are very great, with great tails; but their wool is very course, not only because of their course feeding; but also because in hot Countries, they ordinarily mingle with Goats, and therefore in Venice ordinary Porters will scarce eat any Mutton. And here I cannot but relate, that all strangers very much wonder at two things in our sheep, (not to speak of the fineness of wool.) And  
1. That our sheep if they be sound, seldom or never drink, even in Summer; though they go on the driest Chalky lands: as it plainly appeareth in Kent, where there is scarce water for the great cattle, which proceedeth from the moisture of our air, and abundance of rain and dews.  
2. That our sheep do not follow their shepherds as they do in all other Countries: for the shepherd goeth before, and the sheep follow like to a pack of dogs, this disobedience of our sheep doth not happen to us, as Papists Priests tell their simple flocks; because we have left their great shepherd the Pope; but because we let our sheep range night and day in our fields without a shepherd; which other Countries dare not for fear of Wolves, and other ravenous beasts, but are compelled to guard them all day with great dogs, and to bring them home at night, or to watch them in their folds.  
3. Deficiency in this kind, is the neglect of Fishponds, which are very profitable: for Fish usually live by such worms and flies as are engendered in the ponds, and require no charge. Concerning the ordering of them, and profit of them, read Master Dubravin's Book of Fishponds translated out of Latin into English. And another short Treatise called, Certain experiments concerning Fish, practised by John Taverner Gentleman, and by him published for the benefit of others. And surely it would be a great benefit to this Island if we had Fish at reasonable rates. I cannot therefore pass by two extreme abuses, which exceedingly destroy Fish, and are in no wise to be permitted.  
1. That divers poor men keep many Swine, and in nets, or otherwise catch many bushels of the young fry of Fish, and feed their Swine with them.  
2. That the Fishermen in the River have the Meashes of their nets so strait, that they take many sorts of Fish, when they are too small, and so destroy the young fry. I hope these abuses will be reform with all severity. To this Head I may add Decoys, which are very frequent in Holland, and profitable, but very rare with us in England: yet it may be very profitable and delightful.  
4. Deficiency, is the ignorance of the Infects of this Island. And though it may seem ridiculous to many, to affirm that Maggots, Butterflies, should be of any importance; yet I desire them to consider, that we have our Honey, the sweetest of foods from Bees, which are cattle of this kind: also our Silks, Satins, Plushes, and bravery from the poor Silkworm, which may be called a Maggot, Caterpillar, or Butterfly, etc. the richest of our colours from the Cocheneile, which is one of this sort Gumlac is made by Ants, some are used for food, as Locusts, etc. as you may read in Musset's Book de Insectis. Many of these likewise are used in Physic, as Cantharideses, Wood-sowes, Lice, etc. Some think, that Medicines transcending even in the Chemists, may be had out of these; for every Plant, which hath a Medicinal virtue, is also sublimed up into this living Quintessence: and therefore I commend divers ingenious men, as Mr. Marshal and others, who have collected many hundred sorts of these; and I hope they will communicate ere long their experiments to the world.  
19 Deficiency concerning divers things necessary for the good of cattle. 
19 Deficiency, concerning divers things necessary for the good of cattle.   
1. That we are ignorant of divers Diseases of cattle and their Cures. Not to run over all the diseases of cattle and their Cures, which would be too long, and you may read them in Master Markam's works, the Countrey-Farmer, and others. I will instance only in two, which some years sweep away cattle, as the Plague doth men, (viz.) the Murrain amongst great cattle, and the Rot amongst Sheep. And though divers have wrote concerning the Cures of these Diseases; yet we do not find that effect which we desire: and therefore I hope some will attempt to supply this Deficiency, and write a good Treatise about the Diseases of cattle. Of these two Diseases, I shall briefly declare my mind: And  
1. Of the Murrain, which proceedeth from an inflammation of the blood, and causeth a swelling in the throat, which in little time suffocateth the cattle. The especial Causes of this Disease, are a hot and dry season of the year; which drieth up the waters, or at least doth so putrify them, that they are unwholesome; and also the letting of Carrion lie unburied. This Disease is thought to be infectious; but perhaps it may proceed from one common cause, as the rottenness of sheep. The best way to keep your cattle from this Disease, is to let them stand in cool places in Summer, and to have abundance of good water, and speedily to bury all Carrion: and if any of your cattle be infected, speedily to let them blood, and to give them a good Drench, etc. By these means divers have preserved their cattle, when their Neighbours have perished.  
2. Concerning the Rot of Sheep, not to speak of the Pelt-rot, or sheep that are starved; but of the ordinary rot, called by some the white rot, and is a kind of dropsy, their bellies are full of water, and their liver discoloured. I have seen out of the livers of sheep tending to rottenness, living Creatures, leaping like small Flounder; which without question in little tune will destroy the liver, and consequently produce an indisposition not unlike to the Rot. The common people say, that these worms are caused by the over-heatings of sheep, and that Rottenness proceedeth from a Plant called Cotyledon, or Marsh-Penny-wort, which is of a very sharp taste, and therefore not likely that sheep will eat it; but it may be a sign of wet rotten land, as broom is of sound and dry land. This is certain that in wet moist years, sheep die very much of the Rot; and in dry years on the same ground, they hold sound: and yet I have heard that in Ireland, which is far moisture than England, rottenness of sheep is not known so much. It were therefore well worth the labour of an ingenious man to inquire into the causes of these indispositions in sheep.  
The means, which have been found very effectual for the curing of these Diseases, are these: first, to drive your sheep up to dry Lands, or to keep them in the fold, till the dew be off the grass, or to feed them some days with fine dry hay, especially of salt Meadow, or to put them into salt Marshes: for in those places sheep never rot, or to drive them to some salt River, and there to wash them, and make them drink of the water, this will kill the scab, and also the ticks, and fasten the wool: but if you have not the conveniences before said, then rub their teeth with salt, or rather make a strong pickle with salt and water, and force them to drink thereof. Some dry pitch in an Oven, and add to the pickle, and have found very good success: for these Medicines do exsiccate the superfluous humidities, open obstructions, and kill worms. Some commend the Antimonial Cup, as a Catholic Medicine against all diseases of cattle.  
3. We are ignorant of divers ingenuities, concerning feeding and fatting of cattle and other creatures. To instance in some; And  
1. Of the Horse, who is a great feeder. In Kent and Hartsortshire they usually cut all their Oats and Pease small, and give them with their ●haff; by this means the Horses sooner fill themselves, and eat all the straw up: some put the Horse-meat into a bag, and so order it that a little only lieth in the Manger; which when that is eaten up, more falleth down, and not before; by this way Horses do not blow their meat, nor throw it out of the manger with their Noses. A further good piece of Husbandry they use, which is this, when their Horses are well fed at night, they fill the Rack with Wheat or Barley-straw, and so leave them; the Horse perceiving that that which is in the Rack is not very pleasant, lieth down and taketh his rest, which is as good to him as his meat: if he rise in the night, and fall to the rack and manger, as he usually doth, and findeth nothing but straw, he sleepeth till the morning; but if it be Hay, Tares, or Pease, the Jade will pull it all down, and spoil it, and and likewise will be hindered from his rest; by the which double damage doth ensue. Currying and dressing of horses ought not to be forgot, it is half as good as their meat. Brimstone and Elecampane roots are the especial ingredients for this Physic. For Worms and Surfeit are the two commonest Diseases.  
2. Of the feeding and fatting of Cows. We usual feed cattle with straw in racks in the yard, or turn them to the fields, and there let them feed as much and how they please; which hath many inconveniences: as first, cattle spoil as much with their heels as they eat, especially if the ground be moist, or if the fliebe very troublesome and they blow & stench, & tumble much, and if the fly be busy, they run up and down, and overheat themselves, and fat very little, so that oftentimes in June or July they fatten as little as at Christmas, and most of their dung is lost by these means, etc. But in Holland they do thus: They keep their cattle housed Winter and Summer; for the Winter provision, they lay in not only hay, but also grains, (which they buy in Summer, and bury in the ground:) and also Rape-seed, and Lin-seed cakes, and sow Turnips, not only for themselves, but their Cows also; with the which Turnips being sliced, and their tops, and Rape-seed cakes, and Grains, etc. they make Meshes for their Cows, and give it them warm; which the Cows will slop up like Hogs, and by this means they give very much milk. In the Summer time they mow the great Clovergrasse, and give it them in racks; so that their cattle are not troubled with the pinching frosts, nor reins, nor with the parching Sun in Summer, neither with the Fly, nor do they overheat themselves or spoil half so much meat; and are always as fat as their Masters, or Bacon-hogs. The Dung and Urine they charily preserve, and thereby keep their Meadows of Clover-grass, (which are constantly mown twice or thrice yearly) in good heart: and indeed cattle ought not to go amongst Clover-grass, because it usually groweth with long Haum (as they call it) like Pease, which if it be broken will not thrive. In Bermudas they have a peculiar way of fattening their cattle, not used any where else that I know, which is with Green-Fennel, that groweth in that Island plentifully.  
There is a Plant in Essex called Myrchis or Cow-pursley; which groweth fast and early in the Spring, which they give their cattle at the beginning of the year, and they eat it well.  
It is an ill custom that is used almost every where, to let hogs lie in their dirt and dung, when they are fattening; for all creatures generally do hate and abhor their own dung: and an hog i● cleanliest of all creatures, and will never dung nor stale in his sty, if he can get forth, which other creatures will: and though he tumble in the dirt in Summer; yet that is partly to cool himself, and partly to kill his louse, for when the dirt is dry, he rubbeth it off, and destroyeth the louse thereby.  
Sir Hugh plats in his writings setteth down divers ingenious ways of fattening Poultry, etc. and more may be found out daily. The Jews have a peculiar way of fattening Geese, with Milk, Figs, Raisins, and other sweet things, by which they make the liver of an extraordinary greatness, and is a dish much valued by them, as it was also among the old Romans.  
In moorfield's, there is one that keepeth many hundreds of Coneys with grains and bran: and some others who keep the great laying Ducks, with these things and blood, to their great advantage. I have seen a Book translated out of French, which teacheth how to gain divers hundred pounds per annum, by fifty pound stock in Hens. I suppose about London where Eggs are so dear, great profit might be made by them. Turkeys might be kept with good profit, where there are many Meadows as in Suffolk. In Berkshire many keep tame Pheasants, and have gained well thereby.  
3. We do not know how to improve the Commodities proceeding from cattle to the highest: as for example our ordinary butter might be better scented and tasted: some Ladies have fine ingenuities in this kind. We cannot make Cheese comparable to the Parmesan, nor so good as the Angelot's of France, our ordinary Cheese is not comparable to the Holland Cheeses, where also divers sorts of Cheeses are made of divers colours: but I cannot much commend their green Cheeses, which are made of that colour by Sheeps-dung, etc. 
20. Deficiency, Of the want of divers things which are necessary for the accomplishment of Agriculture.  but I hope in short time our good Housewives' will scorn that any shall excel them.  
20. Deficiency, Is the want of divers things, which are necessary for the accomplishment of Agriculture— As  
1. That we have not a Systema, or complete Book of all the parts of Agriculture. Till the latter end of Queen Elizabeth's days, I suppose that there was scarce a book wrote of this subject; I never saw or heard of any. About that time: Tusser made his verses, and Scot wrote about an Hop-garden, Gougè translated some things. Lately divers small Treatises have been made by divers, as Sir Hugh plats, Gab, plats, Mark●am, Blithe, and Butler, who do well in divers things; but their books cannot be called complete books, as you may perceive by divers particular things; not so much as mentioned by them. The Countrey-Farmer translated out of French is enough, if not more then enough; but it is no ways framed, or squared for us here in England: and I fear the first Authors went on probabilities and hearsays, rather than experience. I hope some ingenious man will be encouraged to undertake a work so necessary and commendable.  
2. Deficiency, is, That Gentlemen try so few experiments, for the advance of this honest and laborious calling; when as many experiments might be made for a small matter; for half a Pole square, will give as certain a demonstration, as an Acre; and a Pottle, as an Hogshead. I hope in time there will be erected a College of Experiments, not only for this, but also other Mechanical Arts.  
3. Deficiency, is, That Gentlemen and Farmers do not meet and communicate secrets in this kind, but keep what they have experimented themselves, or known from others; as Sibyl's leaves: I mean as rare secrets, not to be communicated. I hope that we shall see a more communicative spirit amongst us ere long. And Sir, I cannot but desire you, if you have any things more in your hands of Gabriel plats, or any men's else, that you would with speed publish them.  
4. Deficiency, is, That we want a place to the which men may resort for to find such ingenious men, as may be serviceable for their ends and purposes; and also know where to find such seeds and plants as they desire, as the great Clove-grass, Saint Foi●, La. Lucern, etc.  
5. Deficiency, is, That men do usually covet great quantities of land, yet cannot manage a little well. There were amongst the ancient Romans some appointed to see that men did till their lands as they should do; and if they did not, to punish them as enemies to the Public; perhaps such a law might not be amiss with us: for without question the Public suffereth much, by private men's negligences; I therefore wish men to take Columel's Counsel; which is, Laudato in gentia Rura, Exiguum Colito. For Melior est ●ulta exiguitas, etc. as another saith, or as we say in English, A little Farm well tilled is to be preferred: for than we should not see so much waste land, but more industry, greater crops, and more people employed, then are at this present, to the great profit of the Commonwealth. I know a Gentleman, who yearly letting more and more of that land he used to keep in his hands, yet confesseth his Barns are fuller, because he more diligently manageth what remaineth. 6. I will add that either through the negligence or ignorance of most men, the enemies of the laborious Husbandmen are not destroyed: viz. Crows, Rooks, which pluck up in light land presently after the Corn speareth, much Corn, and also devour much Corn when ripe: these are destroyed either by shooting, or by breaking their eggs in the Spring, or at least may be scared with a little smoke, or with a few feathers. Larks also do much hurt, which may be taken in snares, or by day-nets, Lowbelling, etc.  
What Corn is in the barn, and also in the field, Mice and Rats ofttimes destroy much, which are easily destroyed either by Weasils, which are far better than Cats (though somewhat mischievous to eggs and poultry) for two of them will speedily clear a Ship, though troubled with many hundreds; and therefore I know divers Masters of Ships very inquisitive for them, proffering five shillings for one with many thanks, so that it would be very beneficial both to Ships, and also to those, who would take the pains to breed them tame, as many do in Ireland for their pleasure; Rats also may well be destroyed by Ratsbane, which is white Arsenic, or with Sublimate and Butter. But these things will hardly be procured from the Apothecaries, because they are somewhat dangerous: therefore gardiner's do use very much Nux vomica, which may be had every where, with a little butter, but take heed of the Dogs. Moles likewise do much hurt both to Corn and Pasture, and are too much neglected, though they may easily be destroyed, either with a Moal-spade, or by finding their Nests in March, which usually are in some extraordinary hills, or else by putting a deep pot 〈◊〉 the earth where they run a clicketting in the Spring, or by a Moal-trap which the Gardiner's frequently use about London, etc. Also it were good to destroy the Birds, called Tom-tits, which are great enemies to Bees and fruit, Sparrows, Finches, snail, Warms, etc.  
7. I cannot but add to this place the failings in divers particulars in respect of some particular places, viz. the planting of Saffron, which is very well performed in some parts of Essex, Cambridge, etc. yet altogether unknown in Kent, though there are Lands both white and red, (as they call them) with plenty of dung very proper for that purpose, and yet this commodity is excellent; and further I can add as a Deficiency that I have never seen nor heard of any thing written on this Subject to any purpose.  
2. The planting of Hops, (concerning which Scot in Queen Elizabeth's days wrote an excellent Treatise, to the which little or nothing hath been added, though the best part of an hundred years are since past, and much experienced in this kind amongst us,) for though many fine Gardens have been planted in the Southern parts, yet the Northern are deficient, so that oftentimes we are necessitated to have great quantities from Flaunders.  
3. Liquorice is much planted about Pomfract in Yorkshire, and about London, but little that I hear of elsewhere, so that we are sometimes beholding to Spain for it.  
4. Would is sown in divers parts of Kent, not much in other places, therefore we are oft beholding to the Western Isles for it.  

21. Deficiency, that because of our sins we have not the blessing of God upon our labours.  5. Wade, which is abundantly sown about Coventry, and yet in Kent thought to be a foreign Commodity, this is of excellent use, and deserveth to be sown every where. I might here also add Madder, which is very necessary, and scarcely sown any where; as also Canary-seeds, Carnways, which are abundantly sown about Sandwich and Deal, in Kent, also Rape, Cole-seeds, etc. whose oil is of great use, also of Fruit-trees, Gardening, Hemp, Flax: but of these I have largely discoursed before.  
21. Deficiency, is, by reason of our sins we have not the blessing of the Lord upon our labours.  
And this the reason, that although the Husbandman hath been laborious and diligent in his calling these last years; yet our Crops have been thin, his cattle swept away, and scarcity and famine hath siezed on all parts of this Land; and if we had not been supplied from abroad, we had quite devoured all the creatures of this Island for our sustenance, and yet we could not be satisfied, but must have devoured one another. And therefore to conclude, though I desire the Husbandman to be diligent and laborious in his calling, yet I counsel him to break off his sins by Repentance, to have his eye towards him who is the Giver of every good thing, and to pray daily to him for his blessings, who giveth freely to them that ask, and upbraideth not. And although all callings ought to look up to him that is on high, yet the Countryman especially; for he hath a more immediate dependence on him then any other: for if the Lord withhold his fat dew from Heaven, or the former or latter Rain, it is in vain that the Husbandman rise up early, and go to bed late, and eat the bread of carefulness: for we know, that it is the Lord that maketh barren places fruitful, and he likewise that turneth fruitful Lands into barrenness, (as the Land of Canaan, which was very fruitful even in the time of the Canaanites, but now a barren desert) and therefore, I again desire the Countryman to walk as it becometh a Christian, in all Sobriety, Righteousness and Godliness: not to trust, or put his confidence in his own labours, and good Husbandry; but on the Lord that hath made all things: for though even Paul himself doth plant, and Apollo doth water; yet it is only the Lord that giveth increase and plenty, which he will not deny to those that fear him; for they shall want nothing that is good.  
Lastly, for a Corollary, I will add, (though it doth not so much concern the Husbandman, as those of greater Power and Authority) That it is a great Deficiency in England, that we do not magazine or store up Corn, when the Lord sendeth us plenty, and therefore at cheap rates (as Joseph did in Egypt against dear years) for then the Grain is purest & the perfectest, without Smut, Mildew, Shrankness, or other imperfections, and is the best for long preservation: this is much used in Poland, Dantrigk, Italy, Holland, etc. and is found of wonderful importance. By this means Holland which soweth little or no Corn, seldom or never feeleth a famine, though it be incredibly populous: and for want of this good policy, England which many years aboundeth with Corn, is sore bitten therewith, as is manifest in these last years, in which had not our Neighbours wisely and politicly provided for us, we should have famished and devoured one another.  
Further, This storing of Corn will save vast Sums of money which in dear years are exported for bread: and also well balance the price of Corn, so that the honest Husbandman needs not murmur and be discouraged, because that the price is low, and Markets scant in plentiful years, (because then the Magazines are to be restored) nor the Artisans be famished by the excessive rate of bread in dear years, for then the Magazines are to be exhausted. The best way for the wise carrying on of this business, the Politicians must lay forth, but that belongs not to our calling. Yet I shall here as I have done in former things, g● some general hints, and leave the rest to those who are wiser.  
And first, The City of London, (which is the mouth of the Island, and as I am credibly informed by Meal-men, spendeth about 5000 Quarters of Wheat weekly, and I suppose it cannot do less, considering there cannot be less than 600000 people therein, and about, viz. at least an hundred thousand in the 97 Parishes within the Walls, and four times as many without the Walls as appeareth by the Bills of Mortality, and at least an hundred thousand strangers of all sorts which proportion is less than four l. of bread the week for one) this place ought (I say) to have a considerable Magazine for three or six months, something hath been done in this kind by our forefathers, as appeareth by the particular storehouses of the private Companies, which storehouses ought to be augmented in number, as the Companies yearly are, and also the Quantity of Grain, because the City daily grows more populous.  
2. I would have the Inhabitants of other great Cities and Corporations, as York, Bristol, Norwich, etc. to be numbered, and a like proportion of Corn to be stored up for them, as in London perhaps in divers places, men considering the low value of money, may be entreated to lend a considerable Sum for this good business, if not, I know it is easy to command them.  
3. I would have all Market Towns, and all Hundreds likewise, to have their proportion stored up, and faithfully guarded. Neither let any be terrified, as if it would be extremely chargeable. For first, Now money is low, trade little, and also the Corn which in cheap years is oft sold for 2 s. 6 d. 3 s. or 3 s. 6 d. will commonly, in less than seven years, be sold for 5, 6, 7 s. per bushel, which will abundantly satisfy for Loan, Storage, and other charges & losses; but if that it shall be somewhat chargeable, yet consider the profits that will redound to the Farmer, that he be not discouraged, and also to the Artificer, and poor Labourer, that he be not starved; yea, to the whole people, that we may not be necessitated to devour one another, especially seeing War begin to threaten on every side. And the Magazines of Corn beyond Seas, viz. France and Poland are like to be locked up from us: yea, though peace should be ratified with all Nations, yet even those Nations themselves may want, and if not, yet vast Sums of Gold and Silver must be exhausted for bread, etc. But the further Consideration of these things I leave to them at the Helm of the State.  
And thus Sir, I have written to you very largely my thoughts concerning the Husbandry of this Island, and partly what I have seen in many travels. Good Sir, be not offended at my long and impertinent stories, my rude language, and unmethodical discourse. It was, if not to satisfy; yet somewhat to gratify the universal goodness of your spirit, and care of the public, which God hath enriched you withal. And these are only my first thoughts, which in hast I have huddled up together. I hope (if the Lord will send me life and health) my second thoughts shall be better: But whatsoever I have done, pray look on it, as coming from one who is desirous to serve you, and to advance the Public Good, according to the Talon the Lord hath given him. Thus I commit you to the Protection of the Almighty: And rest  
SIR, Your faithful Friend, and Servant ROB. CHILD. Anno, 1651.    

Copies and Extrancts of more Letters written to Mr. Samuel Hartlib: They all tending very much to the great improvement not only of Agriculture, but of true and real Learning, and Natural Philosophy.  
SIR.  
The several things observed and set down during my stay in the Country, are these.  
1. I Learned the whole Way and Art of making and ordering of Woad, viz. the time when they sow it, when first they weed it, & cut it. I saw the manner of their gathering it, grinding, bawling, drying it, and after sweeting, and curing it. Informing myself of the whole charge and profit of it: have made divers Annotations on it, and taken order for some seed to be sent to me, for other more compendious and profitable trials, answerable to the Nature and Philosophy of it.  
2. This and some other things, gave me occasion to make the best inquiry I could of Housewives and of Fowlers, for all sorts of dying weeds and lierbs, used in the dying of wool; or of nets, which I have carefully collected to improve to a more than ordinary use; some being very remarkable.  
3. Among other general inquiries & adventures, I heard of one at Ware that carried Sea-coal; procured an errand & commendations thither; went, was civilly used, and satisfied in the truth and manner of the thing, and found the Gentleman who was the first Author of it to be one Airs, now dead, an ingenious man, a great Malster, made much profit of it: it drying Malt as sweet as if the Sun itself did it; it is cheaper than either wood or straw; and may be many other ways applied.  
4. I went into the Isle of Ely, to see one of the Holland-mills for dreyning; though set up there and kept by certain Frenchmen. The Invention seemed to me but mean and rude, and Mr. Whe●lers way much more ingenious.  
5. I saw at Wickleson the manner of your Holland-Sluces. The ruins also of a Gochlea, for the emptying draining of water, of which Vbaldus hath writ a whole Treatise. Likewise a pretty kind of Pinnace with Ordnance, somewhat like a close Litter, but flat bottommed; which rowed with Wheels instead of Oars, employed it seems formerly with admirable success, for the taking in of Crowland, and which gave me a proof of what I for many years have thought possible, and of very great use and service, and still think it of unknown value, if it were skilfully indeed framed, and applied as it might be.  
6. The Lord F. W. assured me of a Gentleman in Norfolk, that made above 10000 l. sterl. of a piece of ground, not forty yards square, and yet there was neither Mineral nor Metal in it. He after told me, it was only a sort of fine Clay, for the making a choice sort of earthen ware; which some that knew it see him dig up, discovered the value of it, and sending it into Holland, received so much money for it: it is a story not to be despised!  
7. His Lordship told me the way of making of Spunk, or Touchwood.  
8. Mr. H. his Lordship's Bailiff. showed me a small plat of ground, scarce an Acre and half, wherein he assured me, he had in one year 21. hundred of Hops; and falling out then to be scarce in other places, he made of that small parcel of ground fourscore pound.  
9 At Milton I saw a Spring, that might have been made big enough to serve a large Town; which my friend Wheeler had newly discovered, and broke up; every man opposing him in it, and deriding his confidence, till he made it appear, and shamed them. Hereupon he gave me several marks of knowing and finding out Springs under ground.  
10. From Springs we converted our discourse to Pipes, for the carrying along of Water under ground to any House or ●own; wherein he imparted some Secrets to me, both of the fittest Wood and Trees for Pipes, and preserving them whole Ages from corruption, by ways extremely rational, and not hitherto observed, or found out by any.  
11. This drew on some discourse of Woods, their differences and several applications: in which he told me many singular observations.  
12. After this, I saw at Melton an excellent Model of a Garden, Orchard, and Walks, and being further curious, my friend related a witty invention he once put in practice, to plant an Orchard in a Moorish place, where never grew a Tree.  
13. I casually met with one Boughton, a most singular rare man, in carving or cutting out Figures in small or in great Stone; and for that reason Servant in ordininary to the late King; who acquainted me of many excellent ingenious men, and promised to seek me at my lodging.  
14. Being in Cambridgeshire, I examined more particularly the Husbandry, planting, ordering, and curing of Saffron.  
Some other things came in my way not without notice: but these are the chief. My own improvements and comments, upon all which, I shall more at large give you, when we meet together being always,  
SIR, Yours affectionately to serve you.   

Queries sent into France; about the Seed called La Lucern.  
WHen one N.N. was last in France, (being in discourse with Doctor D. concerning Saint F●in, he was then told by Doctor D. that for the improvement of barren grounds (there was in those parts of France about Paris) another Seed that did far excel that of Saint F●in, and that the name of that more excellent seed was La Lucern. I am desired by a friend of mine to whom N. N. related this passage of Doctor D.) that by your kindness, he may be spoken to of this La Lucern, and his directions desired, where the said seed in to be had? for what price? how much is usually sowed upon an English Acre? what time of the year it is sown? whether it be sown alone? or any other ordinary Corn? and with what Corn? and with what kind of land it best agrees? and finally, what other particulars he can direct more than is here set down.  

The Answer to the Queries from Paris.  
I Have been with Doctor D. about Lucern, who tells me that it groweth best in wettish grounds, that the best time of sowing it in England, will be in February, at the same time that Oats are sown, with the which also it may be sown, but best alone; that to the sowing of an Arpent, (which is much-what the same with an English-Acre) there will go twelve or fifteen pound of the seed, the which useth to be sold here at eight or nine Sols the pound.   

More Queries concerning Lucern.  
I Desire further to know what kind of wet grounds are best for it? whether Moorish or Clay? whether poor or rich? whether it will continue over a year in the ground? and if more than a year, then how many years it will continue without being new sown? whether it be only good for Meadows, or for Pasture? and if for Pasture, then whether the sheep or cattle be suffered to go upon it? or whether it be carried off green as the Clovergrasse is in Flaunders.  
Lastly, For what cattle it is most proper?   

Another Answer from Paris.  
I Thought to have sent you nine pound of the seed of Lucern for the sowing of three Acres, Doctor D. having told me, as heretofore I told you, that three pound would sow an Arpent or Acre; But as I was going about it, I met with a Gentleman an acquaintance of mine, who some years since (but unknown to me hitherto) hath had some Acres of Meadow of Lucern upon his ground, to whom having casually spoke of my business, and told him all that Doctor D. had told me about the Lucern; he answered me, that Doctor D. was most grossly mistaken in the quantity of the seed required for the sowing of an Acre; and that it would not take up three pound, but two whole Sacks, each Sack containing the full load of a strong Porter; after which rate the quantity of seed for the sowing of three Acres would fill a great dry-fat, the sending whereof by land would come to excessive great charges, and therefore necessarily to be sent by Sea in my opinion. You will be pleased to impart these things to your friend, and to let me know his final resolution upon them, the which shall be faithfully accomplished by me; and in the mean while, I will get him a perfect and full assurance upon all his Queries, not from Doctor D. (whom I dare trust no more in this business, having found him guilty of such gross mistakes about it) but from that other Gentleman, who told me he could himself resolve most of these Questions; but that for to be the surer, he thought it best to confer first with his Farmer about it. You make Apologies for putting me upon these Inquiries; but I pray you to believe, that at any time I shall most readily and cheerfully perform any service that shall lie in my power, for you or any of your friends, for your sake. And I were very unreasonable, to think troublesome any thing that you require of me, when as continually I put you to so much trouble myself.   

The last Answer concerning Lucern.  
THe Information about the Lucern that I have got from my Friend, being a very particular one, and containing a very full answer to all the Questions propounded by your Friend; is such as followeth: It requireth a rich ground, but somewhat loose and light, so as a stiff Clay, and such other rough grounds, are no ways fit for it; The ground must not be over-dry nor over-moist, but in a mean; yet somewhat more inclining to moisture, then to the contrary. It must be ploughed three times, the first time in October, and the second and third, towards the Spring. Naturally it doth not love Dung, and cometh much better in a ground that is sufficiently rich of itself, then that which hath been enriched by dunging; and where Dung is made use of, it must be very stale, and well rotten, and long before the sowing time. It cannot endure the cold, and therefore must not be sown till the cold weather and all the danger of it be quite past, viz. about the beginning or midst of April. The Quantity of the seed, is the sixth part of Corn, that the same ground will require: so as only one Bushel of Lucern is to be sown on that space of ground, which would require six Bushels of Corn. It must be carefully weeded, especially in the beginning. And to the end, that it may take the more firm root, some Oats must be mixed with it, but in a very small proportion. It is to be cut as soon as it beginneth to flower, which in the hot Countries (Provence, Languedock, and Spain,) it doth five or six times, and some years seven or eight times in a Summer; but in this Climate it useth to be cut twice a year, about the end of June, and about the end of September. Being cut, it must be turned very oft, that it may dry the sooner, and be carried off the ground the soon that may be; and it must be kept in close Barns, being too tender for to be kept in Reeks, open to the Air as other Hay. It is good for all kind of cattle, as Kine, Sheep, Goats, and as well for the young ones (Calves, Lambs, Kids,) as for the others; but above all it agreeth best with Horses. It is much more feeding then any other Hay; insomuch, as any lean beasts will soon grow fat with it; and to the Milch-beasts, it procureth abundance of milk: but it must never be given alone, especially to beasts that have not been long used to it: but must ever be mixed with straw, or with some other Hay; for otherwise it over-heateth them, and filleth them too much with blood; and that so suddenly, as it greatly indangereth their health, and their life too; which it doth principally to Kine: to whom it is more dangerous, if too plentifully given, then to any other cattle. After the last cutting, you may let your cattle graze on your Luc●rn-fields, and that all Winter long, until the beginning or middle of March. Of once sowing you will have your Meadow continue good for ten or twelve years, and until fifteen, and afterwards too, it will still continue to bear; but the Herb will then notably decay in goodness. Wherefore it is best then to turn it to some other use. Kine must never eat of this Herb green; but only dried, and that moderately too, as hath been said. But Horses eating their fill of it green in the Spring, are purged thereby, and grow fat by it in eight or ten days time: If one desire to have of the Grain, one may let such a proportion of the Meadow as one will, grow up to seed, after the second cutting, any year, except the first only: and when the seed is ripe, the tops of the Herb, with the Cod wherein the seed is enclosed, must be cut in a dewy morning, and put into sheets, for fear of losing the seed, and must be beat out with Flails upon the same: when that it is well dried: and afterwards the remaining part of the Herb must be mown close to the ground; after which it continueth to sprout out again after the usual manner. The Hay thereof will keep good two or three years; and on Acre is sufficient to keep three Horses all the year long.   

A Postscript to the last Answer concerning the Lucern.  
SIR,  
THe Gentleman, who had given me the Note about the Lucern, hath told me since two particulars more, which he had forgot to put into it: The one, that not only to other cattle, but even to the Horses with whom that Hay agreeth best of all other beasts; it is not to be given but in Winter, because that in the Summer it will too much heat their blood: And the other, that this hay must be perfectly well dried, before it be carried off the ground; and to that end turned very often: because that being put up with any the least moisture, it will quite spoil much more than any other Hay. Now these and all the other particulars, which I have had from the Gentleman, have been confirmed to me by many others. And yet within these two or three days, I met with a Physician of Rochel, who assuring me that the Lucern was very common in his Country, made me a relation of it agreeing with the former, only in these three points, viz. That of once sowing it will continue ten or twelve years; That it is cut twice a year, serving afterwards for Pasture all Winter, And that it wonderfully fatteneth all kind of cattle, but very much different from it in all the others, and in some of them point-blank contrary to it. For he saith, that it is to be sown in the beginning of March; that it desireth a temperate ground, but rather dry then wet, and no ways fat nor clayish, but stony and gravelly; that it need not be mixed with any other Hay, but may be given alone, and all the year long; in Summer as well as Winter, not only to Horses, but to Cows and other cattle. He added, that the proportion of the seed, is the charge of a porter for four Arp●nts or French Acres. Which particulars I thought good to impart unto you, that your friend comparing them with the others, might make his best profit of them; and this Rochellois; (or Rosheller) who hath lived three or four years in England, thinks that Lucern will come admirably well in that Country.   

NOTE.  
THe meaning of these words— The quantity of the Seed is the sixth part of Corn that the same ground would require,— is this, That whatever quantity of Wheat or Barley an Acre of ground would require of the seed of Lucern; you must take but the sixth part of that quantity of the seed of Lucern; so as that ground which for its sowing requireth six bushels of Corn, doth require bu● one bushel of Lucern-seed.  
And Arpent de ●err● (which how much it is in English measure Co●grave's Dictionary will perfectly tell you) requireth ●en pound of that seed, as several Grain-sellers (of whom I went to inquire for it) have unanimously told me: the seed being exceeding small, and to be sown wonderfully thin. As for Saint Foin or Holy Hay, I have seen it grow here about Paris in several places, in rich fat grounds, and those both high and dry, and others low and Marshy. It is cut but once a year, much what about the same time of other Hay, and a great deal of the seed of it is required for sowing the ground with it. But being once sown, it lasteth ten or twelve years, as well as Medica or Lucern, wherewith also it correspondeth altogether in its Virtues and Uses.    

A Copy of a Letter, relating a Proof or Experiment of an English Husbandry.  
Honoured Sir,  
I Desire your acceptance of this small present, may be according to the real worth of the thing; not as at first sight it may appear to be (viz.) straw or stubble. This is I assure you no other than the true and real Experiment of what by the blessing of God, the native fertility of our English ground, rightly husbanded will bring forth: Nay I can upon most probable grounds affirm, that had I used all the Art and Care which I could and might have done (had I not been otherwise taken off) it could hardly have failed to have been double, treble, or quadruble to what it is. And it is also most true, that any good ground well managed, may yield one, ten, an hundred, etc. Acres, in which there shall be very many superior to the biggest root of these, and hardly one inferior to the best but one; by which account it will easily appear, how much beyond the old way, this is the increase, there being between two and five quarters on; the Acre; and the produce of this way will be rarely under ten quarters, not rarely sixteen, or twenty, and the same for most Grains; yet will this dull Age as to goodness not believe it without some testimony, and perhaps scarce suffer themselves to be convinced by this so eminent an experiment; wherein it plainly appears, That out of one single Barley- Corn is sprung about 80 Ears, of which near 60 had some 36, 34, 32, 30. and hardly any less than 38. which in all is above 2000 for one: And truly the charges to be bestowed on an Acre of this sort is no ways double to the common way. Accept it therefore, and reserve it as a real rarity, and a jewel only fit for a Public and Pious Spirit, as yours is: till I shall by God's assistance be able next year to produce you more abundant examples of Gods wonderful power and bounty that offers, and man's ingratitude that neglects, or refuses such honest means, of the truest and most justly gotten humane wealth, honour, and happiness.  
Your most faithful and obli-Friend, and Servant. C. D. September, 26. 1650.   

A Conjectural Essay upon the foregoing Secret of Experiment of an English Husbandry.  
My Dear Friend,  
BEing the other day among a knot of great Husbands, and telling stories of such like Experiments and Improvements, I remembered something that seemed very remarkable concerning a very fortunate attempt in Husbandry, made heretofore by Sir John Culpepper, who they commended at least for a man very sagacious in things of this nature. He it seems sowed a round parcel of Wheat, about the Month of July: and turned in sheep afterwards to eat it, until about All-ha●ontide, keeping it very low till the cold and winter began to come: And without doing any thing else to it, he gained so goodly and admirable a Crop of Wheat the next year, that Kent scarce ever saw the like, it growing in those parts almost to a Proverb. As great a Crop as Sir John Culpepper had.  
Sir, This Story gave me an occasion by myself to meditate on your Friends. Mr. Dymock's great Experiment of his Pease and Barley, and remembering he did nothing to the seed, nor to the ground, but somewhat after it was come forth of the ground; I began to consider Analytically what it was possible for man to do to Plants after they were come out of the ground; And I satisfied myself, that a man could but either dung them, water them, weed them, remove them, secure them, keep them low by eating, pruning, or cutting them, or lastly spread their Roots by rolling them. And though there be some other managements by Glasses multiplying of light, etc. Yet I imagined they were too subtle and costly to take place here.  
1. For dunging and watering them, they were clearly things done to the Ground itself, as well as to the Plant.  
2. For weeding them, though this oft proved a great improvement, and bettering of Plants, yet I saw not how it could make so great an increase or multiplication of the Grain, as was in Mr. Dymocks Experiment.  
3. For removing them, and taking off the suckers, though this be a very necessary management in taller Plants, and serves to make them much more vegete and lusty, yet I saw not how this could take more place in Barley, and such small grain, then grafting.  
These Considerations made me pitch upon the two last, and of the two rather upon Rolling, or the like Art, for the spreading the Roots of it, then upon the other, of eating, feeding, or cropping it.  
1. First, Because the former Experiment of Sir John Culpeppers seemed to me an improvement of the Plant, only by the giving it opportunity, the better to fasten and spread its root. Which the length of time of its being in the ground, the cold of the season, and trampling and lying down of the sheep, seemed all to confer unto. All which Rolling I thought might in some measure perhaps supply.  
2. It is an Observation among some bigger Plants, that their Roots are answerable to their Heads, intimating that a small root could not have a large and bushy head, no more than a strong and fairly spread root could have a small and spindly head. And truly this Rule in greater Plants, seems more necessary in smaller: for how should we think there should be many ears or stalks from one Grain upon a small and single root; for where could there be a place for them? And how should we think a Root to be strong, spreading, and succulent, and yet not endeavour Germination in the several parts and joints of it; especially in hasty, growing, Annual Plants?  
I therefore conclude such a super-fortation of ears must necessarily proceed from an improvement by the Root, where nothing was done either to prepare the Ground, or the Seed. And that this spreading of the Root is probable to be best effected by a Rowl, or some such like thing.  
3. I might add to this Conjecture, the common Experiment of Camomile, and some other low creeping Plants, being rolled in dry weather. As also an Experiment that I once heard of a Gardener, who raised a great Estate by his Husbandry of Turnips, which was by keeping them low for a certain time, by which they grew the sooner big and sweeter: The like is used in some Countries to Potatoes. To all which I might add the plain defect of this Rolling in Husbandry to any sort of Grain, which also may give the greater occasion of finding a remarkable benefit and improvement upon the use of it.  
However Sir, Being so much satisfied as I was of the thing, I could not but give you this my Essay upon it, and Conjecture, the rather because in the more dry or stiff Grounds, as also in seasons indifferent for moisture and dryness. If this have not been yet tried, Me thinks it were sit to be used.  
To your inquiry, after which I shall therefore leave it, and shall be,  
SIR. Your very true Friend. B. W.   

An Extract of a Letter from Amsterdam, dated the 28. of November, 1650. with another Experiment of a French Husbandry  
SIR,  
I Am much obliged unto you for sending me the Discourse of the Braband Husbandry, which I have perused. Not long ago! was told of certain men which would fain have mortgaged some thousand Acres of Heathy Grounds, which lay here and there as Commons. But the late Prince of Orange by the advice of his Council, durst not entertain any such Propositions, the lands belonging to the Commonalty. On the other hand the undertakers would not be contented with less for imparting of their Secret. It appears unto me by all circumstances, that it was the same design of Husbandry with yours, the parties, if I remember well, being English men. From Paris I am advertised (for certain) of one, who did last year, 1649. ferment one Grain of Wheat, which this year hath produced him 114 Ears, & within them 6000 Grains, which is more than 80 Ears, and 600 Grains of your English friends. This year, 1650. he hath a great many fermented and sown.  

An Answer to the foregoing Extract of a Letter from Amsterdam.  
SIR,  
I Have received from you a Relation of a very great and wonderful production or increase, which your Friend at Amsterdam relates to be done in France. I am far from lessening the admirable greatness of that persons skill and success. Only since I find myself taken notice of by the same party, and the Experiment I made the last year of Barley, weighed in the scales with this, and found too light; I shall take leave to say, that (besides all difference that is or may conceived to be betwixt the soils; that of France hath a manifest advantage in the Elevation and powerful Operation of the Sun,) That it is probable he did use all possible means both to the Ground and Seed, to make them both fruitful, which I did not at all; but quite contrarily I chose the worst seed I could procure; and my ground was as barren as any whatsoever in the parts adjacent. I added nothing to either; all I did was after the blade was sprung up. And whereas your friend mentions 600. out of 80. ears, those ears contained one with the other at the least thirty single Corns, which 2400. That besides that, Wheat is no whit inferior to Barley, but rather more inclined to its proper nature to branch and spread: it is also allowed as long time again to grow, and therefore may better spread to many ●ars than Barley. That my ears of Barley rated at thirty, one with the other, (which they were at least, some having 38 a thing I suppose rarely (if ever) seen in England before) are full as high as his Wheat ears rated at 52. And the seeming great difference between 2400 and 6000. when looked into, will prove not to be in the number of ears, which differ no more than as fourteen to ten, but in the nature of the Grains, there being universally as many more in an ear of Wheat as in an ear of Barley. That if (as it is most like) he in France did only try conclusions, to what height Nature might possibly be screwed by Art, and that what is here related, was the effect of that trial; that holds not comparison with mine, which is generally practicable, without any considerable expense of time or stock more than in the common-way. Lastly, I affirm, in all possible humble reverence and submission to God's good pleasure, power and providence; that when I shall make use of good Seed rightly prepared, good Land in right condition, and all other helps which I know and can use; I shall not doubt for smaller numbers of the same Grain, (viz.) Wheat, to produce 200 or 300 ears, and in them 10000 12000. or 15000. Corns, (and somewhat like that, for whole fields together, and that here in England,) howsoever let us always remember to give all possible praise to God, whose blessing only makes rich.  
SIR, I am your faithful Friend and Servant. C. D.   

Another Letter from Paris, discovering the Secret of the forenamed French Husbandry.  
SIR,  
I Do with much impatience desire the Treatise or Discourse published by you about the Braband-Husbandry, and do very much admire the industry of that English Gentleman your Friend, who hath found out the ways of making Corn multiply so prodigiously. The Parisian Experimenter of Corns multiplication I know not: but a friend of mine very well acquainted with him, assureth me to have had the following description of his secret from himself; and to have seen the experience of it very fully in the year 1649. not in any great quantity, but in a Garden, only for trials sake.  
Pour into quick o● unslacked Lime, as much water as sufficeth to make it swim four inches above the water; and unto 10 l. of the said water poured off, mix one pound of Aqua vitae, and in that liquor steep or soak Wheat (or Corn) 24. hours which being dried in the Sun, or in the Air, steep again in the said liquor 24 hours more, and do it likewise the third time; Afterward sow them at great distances the one from the other, about the distance of a foot between each grain. So one Grain will produce 30.36.38.42.52. ears, and those very fruitful, with a tall stalk, equalling the stature of a man in height.   

Another Extract of a Letter from the Low-Countries.  
SIR,  
THese are to give you special thanks for communication of the Parisian Experimentors Secret. Water (if he means cold water) poured into quick and unslackt Lime, cannot work much in one hour upon the Lime; but if it be boiled with it, and that the water be poured always a fresh upon the Lime, than it will come to be strong at last, that an Egg may swim in it, as I learned by tradition from Doctor Hartmannus, but could never make any trial of it, for want of unslackt Lime in the place where I live. This perhaps may be yet better; but experience goes beyond reason in those cases. The often macerating or steeping, and drying of Grains I like very well. I have only according to Master Gab. plats direction steeped them 24. hours ●n turned or tainted Rain-water, and Cowdung, and afterwards sown them thus wet, which on sandy grounds hath produced such goodly Corn, as if it had been very good Land. Some here use Salt-Peter, which also doth much good; but is found likewise in Sheeps-Dung, as may appear by its fertility. I have lost the Book of Husbandry of Mr. Plaits, which was called, A Discovery of infinite Treasure hidden since the World's beginning. Whereunto all men of what degree soever, are friendly invited to be sharers with the Discoverer. For having lent the same to a friend, that it might be translated into High-Dutch, I could never see it again. I am told it is out of Print. But if you could help me to another, you would do me a pleasure. I have nothing to add for the present, but that the Genius of this Age is very much bend to advance Husbandry; and that in all Countries I hear there are found Gentlemen, that study professedly these improvements more than in former time. I rest always  
SIR, Yours, etc.   

Another Letter expressing the reasons why the Experiment of the Barley-Corn, thinks it not fit or expedient to part with his secret as yet, for a more common use.  
SIR,  
I Find daily more and more, that it is too true, that most men love money, that they even worship it in their hearts, as the only Summum Bon●m. I need not go far for proof, since they have brought one to my hand. That (having so fair & just offers made in order to the Corn-business; as I have presented to them by your hands,) will by no means (though so very much to their own profit and the Public Good) part with their moneys; and yet stick not to demand (in effect) the discovery from me of that talon of knowledge, which God hath made mine by his free-gift; as the reward of my industry, and faithful love to my Native Country; An estate (if I mistake not) better gotten them by any of the common means; by which men grow rich daily. Surely the commodities cannot be less than equal. The most wise and virtuous men that ever lived, have preferred Art, Industry, and Ingenuity far before money. Money (especially the abuse of it) is become the very poison of the world, against which Art and Industry is an Antidote or Cordial. Money is counted and enjoyed by a thousand thousands, Art and Industry but a few. And things of excellent use are accounted Jewels, especially when rare and scarce. The Professors of Art and Industry, besides their private aim also at a Public Good: these prefer their private gain (too often) before the being and well being of the whole world; nay of their own souls. These are ever ready to part with invaluable treasures upon easy conditions: Those will not upon any conditions whatsoever (but such as please themselves, or are full of oppression) part with their moneys, (no not to save a Brothers, or hardly a Fathers, or a Child's life.) And finally if they judge it improvidence to part with a little of their estates only of a time, to return again to them shortly, like Noah's Dove with an Olive branch, a double branch of Peace and Prosperity: I desired to be excused, if I upon better grounds hold it profane, to sell a better right then a birthright for less than a Mess of pottage; even for just nothing, and for ever. I can never forget the exceeding great ingenuity to the world, showed and given by Mr. Gab. plats, as will more fully appear, when you shall have printed those writings of his which he left to your trust and custody, and the World's base ingratitute that let such a man fall down dead in the street for want of food, without a shirt to his back; none (but yourself that want not an enlarged heart, but a fuller hand to supply the words defects) being found with some few others, to administer any relief to a man of so great merit. In a word, that God that hath forbid to muzzle Ox that treads out the fodder, hath appointed every man to use his blessings next to his glory for the providing for and preservation of his family, which he that can do, and doth not, is worse than an Infidel. I dare not give away this means of obtaining outward blessings to myself and family, till I have found? way to make it instrumental to that end; and that end once effectually attained to, I dare not deny God's mercy and bounty to me, nor longer restrain the public use of his universal good: I remain  
SIR, Yours, C. D.    


A Secret practised with very good success in England, concerning sowing of Wheat, to prevent it from being Smutty.  
FIrst take your Wheat, pour the same into a tub of water, and stir it about, take off all the Corn that swimmeth upon the water, and pour the rest upon a floor, letting the water run off. Then make a strong brine of Bay-salt, and pour some of the brine on the Corn upon the floor; and take to half a quarter of Corn, half a peck of Salt, and strew it on the Corn, and stir and mix it continually; as you pour thereon the brine, and strew the salt thereon, until the Corn be all wet and overstrowed with Salt.  
Then take to a half quarter of Corn, half a bushel of unslacked lime, and strew that likewise over the Corn, mingling it well together; which done you may sow the same the next day. The brine must be cold when you pour it on the Corn, and you must prepare no more Wheat than you intent to sow next day.   

Another Secret practised in Germany for the enriching of Meadows.  
A Meadow yields six times more Hay, when it is turned up with a plough, and sown thick with ashes burnt out of the substance thereof, but the rain must fall first. Afterwards sow your Meadow with the seed of Tresoil, and plough and harrow them in. The first grass which groweth thereon, let it be very ripe, that the seed may fall off itself; then let some go over it, and with rakes stir it, that it fall out. Afterwards let it be mown off, and carried to a certain place where it may be dried, so the Grass will grow presently again, and may be mown again in three weeks.   

How to make Rushy Ground to bear Grass.  
BReak the Rushy Ground, and rake roots and the rushes together, and burn them or carry them away, then spread upon that ground, Turffe-Ashes, or Pigeons-Dung, Chalk or Lime, according to your ground. Try of every one of these upon a little plot of your ground: you may use other Ashes, Marle, or Dung, for experiments: and that which you find doth kill the Rushes and other Weeds best, use it: you are to make Gutters or Drains to carry away the water from the ground: you may destroy Rushes or Fern, if you will; but cut or mow them down in the beginning of June, and so use to do it two or three years together at that time.   

For planting or sowing Walnuts.  
IN the season when they are full ripe on the trees, a few days before they would fall, as near as can be guessed, let them be gathered or beaten off; and in the green husk, or without it, put them into good ordinary earth in a barrel or basket: So let them continue until the beginning of March following: as soon as that month begins, get as much warm Milk from the Cows as will steep them 24 hours: after they are steeped, set them in ground well digged, and judged natural for such fruit, with their little end, or their prickled sharp end upwards, about three or four inches deep in the earth, and not one of 28. will fail, as hath appeared by experience. This may make dry Walnuts also prove trees, the Nuts used as abovesaid, as far as may be, set them near one foot asunder, and in a right line to weed them. The Walnut breeds good Timber, good shadow, good smell, good fruit. At four years' growth transplant them.   

Mr Lanyon's Description of the usual manner of planting and transplanting (according to that of Flaunders) of those Trees called Abeales, imparted for Public Good.  
THey are first planted from any, even the least part of the Root of the same Tree: you must divide the root, by slipping each part from the other, and not by cutting it in sunder: you may take those parts from those trees whilst they grow, and without danger to them, rob them of all the small sprigs of the root, and leave only the Master-Roots; but the most usual way is to multiply them, when they are transplanted; which time is at their growth of five years: their season is in March. They are first planted in the way of a Nursery, in loose earth, moist and sandy, or inclining to it: their distance is ten inches one from another (the earth being first prepared as for a Gard●n:) you are to make holes with a stick, the depth of the length of the part you have to set, setting him so that you may only see a part of it above ground, the earth being closed about them; they are to be kept weeded as any other plants. The second year in February you are to prune off all from the Master or Middle-shoot, and so to the third and fourth year: the fifth you may transplant them, so as they like the ground of their Nursery. Their usual distance one from another is ten foot: you may drive a stake with them when you transplant them, to secure them stift against the wind; for that they will grow very tall in those years, and so be much exposed to the winds. They may without much prejudice (to Corn) be planted in the furrows where it grows; so as the ground be moist, and you keep them well pruned, and leave only a bush at the top of the tree. No stiff Clay grounds will admit them to thrive, they will grow in moist Clay ground, but only in height, and will not burnish for want of room to extend their roo●s. This tree if he likes his ground; will be at full growth in twenty years. He is valued in Flaunders after seven years' growth, worth every year 12 d. until his time be up. He grows very strait without boughs, only a bush on the top, and so exceedingly well becomes a Walk. This Timber is also uncomparable for all sorts of wooden vessels, especially Trays; Butchers-trays cannot well be made without it, it being so exceeding light and tough. Some years ago there were ten thousand at once sent over into England, and transplanted into many Counties. Mr. Walker at Saint James can give the best account of them to all such as desire further to be instructed in this particular.   

Another Direction for the planting (understand the second Planting) of the Abele-Trees.  
LEt your Plants be one year old, ere you remove them to the plat where they must stand in the earth, till they be transplantable.  
Cut away their roots in such a manner, that the cuts may fall flat against the earth: but spare the little roots, and the small sprigs or beards that hang about the root.  
Cut off the upper part so short, that they be but little more than half a foot long. Upon which remainder, you shall ordinarily have five or six buds; sometimes more, sometimes fewer; but what ever their number be, it is best to leave your plants all of one length.  
The Land in which you mean to plant them, must first be well laboured, and then opened so deep, that the Plants may stick up but three inches above the earth, if it be dry; but if your land be moist, you must not set your plants so deep.  
Plant them foursquare, so that every Tree may stand one foot and three quarters (that is, 21 inches) from every one of his four next neighbours, Thus,  
In the first year, take away or cut off no shoots from them, but those that grow out half a foot from above the earth.  
The time of planting is when the violence of frosts is ceased.   

New Observations concerning Abel-Trees.  
The least Spawners from the root will grow. Any twigs cut from the body will grow. They will grow (in two, or at most in three years) above the reach of the tallest man.  
A Set planted by Master Walker, Gardiner of Saint James, not above twelve, or at most thirteen years since, is now as big as his middle.  

Item,  
Two Rows of Setters, three inches about planted (the rows) twenty four foot asunder in 47. did by the end of the year 50 meet with their boughs cross the walk.   

Item,  
An Abele-Tree at Zion, lopped in February 51. by the end of October, 52 put forth branches as big as a man's wrist, seven, ten foot long.     

Dr. Arnold Boati's, Annotations upon the Legacy of HUSBANDRY.  

Paris the first of July, 1651.  
I Give you most hearty thanks for your Work of Husbandry, the which having perused instantly, à capite ad calcem. I find it a most excellent piece both for the improvement of Husbandry, and of the other Commodities of the Country, as likewise for the Natural History of England, and have learned many particulars by it, which before were unknown to me. But I remember to have heard of a Dutch Merchant in Dublin, that the Dutch used to fetch their Black-lead out of Wales; whereas you say it is found in Cumberland, and no where else in Christendom. I pray you to let me understand, whether you have any particular knowledge of that Mine, of the nature and properties of that Material, whether it serveth for any other uses, then to make pens of, and to neale earthen vessels withal, and how for this use Potters do prepare and apply it▪   

Paris, the 12 of July, 1651.  
I was hugely taken with the large Epistle in your Legacy upon the first reading of it, and am more now upon the second, which maketh me sorry, that the Author should give any advantage to carping wits; as he doth here and there in some of the Parerga; upon which I shall freely give you my sense, that being communicated to him, he may mend them in the next Edition, if so he see it fitting: What he saith out of Helmont. page 13. The smuttinesse of Corn, and the soul disease to have begun in France, together about 1530. and the latter to have had some original from the former. To say nothing of the small credit of that Author, even in things subject to his own knowledge and experience, I being able to convince him of most palpable lies out of his own writings, a more credible Author than he should not be alleged, much less heeded; if opposite to so notorious a truth; as that of the foul disease, it's original in France, as well as in Italy and Spain; full 36 years' sooner than Helmont says, viz. in the year 1494. and nothing could be advanced more absurd or ridiculous in the judgement of all sound Physicians, then to attribute the original of that disease in any wise to smutty Corn, as he doth. The imperfection of smutty corn, consisteth altogether in a similar distemper, and that of the more spirituous part, consequently not at all subject to the eyes and so not to be found out by Microscope, to the contrary of what our Author supposeth, page. 15. The corn sown in July, produced such an increase, page 18. I cannot imagine, how Corn sown in Summer can come to good, or what humane wit or skill can hinder it from running up; and spending itself, before the coming in of Winter. His Philosophy of the blackness of the Moor-loghs, as communicated by the blackness of the earth or turf, page 25. is no ways receivable. I find him too credulous, page 27. to Glaub●r, and others, about those Mountebank boastings of brewing without malt, and of drawing great store of Aquavitae out of the imaginary Beer; and other unfit materials. The opinion of the Suns descending lower, page 30. although justly, as I hold it rejected by Moestlinus, Longomontanus, Keplerus, Morinus, Bullialdus, quibus omnibus praeit Ptolomaeus, ought not to be spoke of so contemptuously, seeing that one of the greatest Astronomers that ever was (viz.) Copernicus' did first advance it, & Reinholdus, another most famous Artist approve of it, and he having made the lowest descent of the Sun but of 35 minutes, which is but a little more than half a degree; I know no● what makes our Author speak of the Suns descending many degrees lower. It is true, that those 35 minutes amount to many thousands of miles, which expression therefore would be both more pertinent, and more suitable to the vulgar capacity of most Readers, then that of minutes or degrees; This is what I have observed till page 30. further than which I am not yet come: And forasmuch as I have never an English Dictionary here, I would be glad of the Exposition of some English words not so well understood by me, as howing (so oft spoke of) and the How; Wheats-lodging, page 18. Canker-berries, page 27. and the difference betwixt Haws and Hips; page eadem, I having ever taken them to signify the same thing. I do not know neither, what are the piles on Marshes sides, page 25. and am ignorant of the History of Glassenburies' Hauthorne, mentioned page 4. about which I would willingly receive some light.   

Paris, the 19 of August.  
AN English Gentleman, who many years hath lived, and been a Housekeeper in Devonshire, as he was yesterdy reading your Legacy at my house, having lighted on that passage, page. 26. about the making of Cider, told me, that the second way there mentioned is not a making of Cider, but a certain preparation of it already made, usual also in wines and other liquors, especially those that are to be transferred a great way by Sea; and as for the first, that he never saw it practised in Devonshire, where Cider is very common; and where himself usually made forty Hogsheads every year; but that the way of making Cider in that Country used by all men is this; Having reduced their Apples into Mash, by turning upon them a kind of a Millstone set edge-wayes in a wooden trough, they presently carry them to a wooden press of that bigness: as in one hour they will press out two Hogsheads of Juice: the which having let stand a day or two, and having taken off the black scum that ariseth in that time, they tun it, and in the Barrels it continueth to work some days longer, just as Beer useth to do. He told me divers other particulars about Cider, partly of his own, and partly of that Country's common observations, the which I forbear to relate, because I believe that Markham hath spoke of them.   

Paris the 16 of September 1651.  
seeing by your last, you desire the continuation of my Annotations upon your Legacy, I must tell you that I believe your friend hath not been well informed, page 23. about the Country's there named by him; for the sending of Walnuts, Quinces, and Chestnuts into England, and that it will be found upon better enquiry, that these commodities do come into England, if not solely, yet abundantly: the first from Holland, the second from Zealand, and the third from France; and as for small nuts, except he speak of some exquisite kind of them, I know not why one should run so far as Spain for them, seeing that Ireland aboundeth in them above all Countries in the world, page 27. I know an ingenious man, who can without malting, etc. If you and your friend will be ruled by me, you shall not take this upon Glaubers bare word, nor any of those other magnificent promises; which he maketh in that boasting Catalogue▪ till he have made them good by the effect, lest the similitude of the Prophet Esay 29.8. be verified in us, page 28. Grafting, Inoculating, etc. a Gentleman will learn in two hours, to learn it to some purpose will require more than so many days, if not weeks, expertus loquor: page 30. We find Vines flourishing many hundred mil●s more towards the North [than Alsace] both in France, Loram, and Germany: If for many hundreds, he had said one hundred miles, he might perhaps have made that good, and yet not that neither in all the three Country's here named, I am sure not near it in Lorain, and very hardly in France: page 31. Vines grow sixty miles on this side Paris at Beaumond; Beaumond is but eight leagues, or sixteen English miles North from Paris and Beauvais, (which and Beaumond is the most Northern part of France, where any Vines grow) is but twice as far, being distant sixteen leagues from Paris. Ibid. These places which are even as far North as England, nothing near none of them; page 36. linea 3. pack in so many plants, etc. I have seen most of the Vineyards about Paris for many miles round, and never saw any such thing, very few having any thing in them but Vines, and where any thing else was, I saw only a few Peach-trees here and there, too far asunder to do any great harm to the Vines or Ground; 37. To short poles, as we do hops, out of one Hop-pole you may make three Vine-poles. As for length; wherefore they should not be so yoked together: ibid. In France, so soon as they have pressed out their liquor with their feet [pressing with feet is not used in all parts of France, and utterly unknown in these Northern parts of it,] they put it into Hogsheads not at all till it have wrought first in Keeves: 39 from these who would destroy, etc. I could wish that bitter and exasperating expression in the behalf of my Countrymen might be spared. If I would make Observations upon those passages, which have something of good and excellent in them, as well as upon them, where I conceive something is to be mended, I should never have done, the Book being full of them from one end to another; yet I cannot let pass with silence those words, page 44. The Sun and Dew engender a nitrons fatness, they pointing at the unfolding of one of the greatest Mysteries in Nature, unknown to most of them if not to all; who professedly do deal in the inquiries of that noble Science; but to speak of this to the full were not the work of a Scholion, but of a whole Treatise, concerning the Improvement of Land by Sea sand; of which page 45. you will find a confirmation of that in Ireland's Natural History, and it is very much used in Devonshire, with admirable success, not only equal to, but even beyond Lime itself, as I have been told by that Gentleman, whose Observations concerning Cider I gave you formerly; page 46. All fertility proceedeth from salt, addendum. Made unctuous or oily, and spirituous, id est uno verbo nitrous, nam sale mero nihil magis inimicum faecuudirati; 47. In Holland they are carefully preserve the Cow's urine, as their Dung to enrich their land, they preserve it no otherwise then is done in all other Country's; viz. mixed with the Dung, and jointly with it carried out to the Dunghill, ibid. we must have it, [paper] from Italy, France, and Holland; I believe Italy sendeth out little paper, either to England, or to any other Country, and as for Holland; it hath none to send, but what itself getteth from abroad, there being none at all made there, (viz.) In Holland properly so called, nor in any of the other Provinces that I know of, but only some in the Velaw, a part of Gelderlant, and in England there is good store made, both towards Oxford, and in some other places, though not enough for to serve the Nation.   

Paris, the 2●. of October, 1651.  
HAving continued to read on in your Legacy from page 48. where I left with my last Annotations, I find nothing that needeth any Animadversions, but these few following things, page 60. a kind of Salix called by them Abel-tree, the Tree called an Abel in Dutch is no way a kind of Salix, but is I'opulus alba; Ibidem, If we believe their own Authors, etc. I know not who those Authors are, but I am sure that who ever hath said so, hath said most untrue; for the profit that ariseth to France by Silk, cannot in the least part come in competition with that of Corn and Wine. Ibid. In France, which differeth not much from the temper of England; Silk is a stranger to those parts of France that agree with England's temper; 69. I could wish those words, linea 3 & 4. we know nourisheth them, to be left out, as devoid of all truth, if applied to the insect in question: page 70. linea 2. Let him read Boneil, add Andream Libavium, qui peculiari Tractatu inserto parti secundae Singularium: fusè ac diligenter admodum omnia ad Bombyces spectantia pertractavit: militerque Olivier de Serres libro 50 Theatri Agriculturae. Among the things which page 70. he thinketh might be transplanted profitably into England, I could wish the omission of the three first, (viz.) Sassafras, Sarsaparilla, and Snake-weed, the which I greatly doubt would hardly be made to grow there at all with any industry, but sure I am, never to any purpose: and the same I believe about their Cedars and Pines. Medica veterum is without all peradventure the Plant now known under the name of Lucerna; wherefore it ought not to be ranked as it is, page 80. amongst the Plants now unknown; Quid esset lupinus veterum, nemo unquam Herbariorum quod sciam dubitavit quare omittenda ejus mentio inter herbas controversas, page 80. Page 81. What seed, grout, or grutz, is made of the same seed, and in the same manner, as that which in English is called Groats, (viz.) of Oats and of Barley; of those three sorts of Cheeses which he reckons up, page 81. only the second and third are made of Cow's milk, and therefore his expression is too general, and what he says there, which are far better than our ordinary Cheeses, is true indeed; but as true it is, that they are far better than their ordinary Cheeses: and as true likewise, that the best of those Cheeses are no better, nor so good by far as some English Cheeses. Verbi gratia Chedder-Cheeses. He is much mistaken, if he believeth that all those things reckoned up. page 82. will grow in England, at least to any purpose, especially Rice, Cork, Scarlet-Oak, and that Sentence of Virgil; Vt quid quaque ferat regio, quid quaeque recuset. Justly termed an Oracle by Pliny, doth not depend wholly (as our Author seemeth to take for granted) on the Climate, and the latitude of Regions, for were it so, Dictamnus, Laser, Cinamonum, Balsamum, Myrrah, Camphora, Stirax, Mastic, Beujovin, Caryophylli, Nux-Muschata; and an infinite number of other Plants would not be, and from all time have been confined to such Territories as they are; all the Industry of man, and the power and wealth of greatest Princes never having been able to make them grow; at least not to make them fructify out of their native Soils: wonder also to find Linder-trees named in the Catalogue of Plants, which he would have denizoned in England, seeing tha● great store of them and very good by ones have been growing in several parts of the Land, many years since even in & about London, as at Exeter-house, Wimbleton-house, etc. and there besides Sherewood-Forrest in Nottinghamshire, aboundeth in them naturally.   

Paris, the 18. of November, 1651.  
I Come now to your Legacy, whereon these words, page 84. It casteth up Jet and Amber, I must tell you that as it is most certain, that of Jet, good store is found on some part of the shore of Yorkshire, so I dare say that upon inquiry it will appear, that never any Amber or Succinum was cast up there by the Sea; that being a commodity so peculiar to Spruce or Prussia, as the Sea was never known to render it in any other Country of the world whatsoever, page 85. At Dover they make brick of Sea-owse, a thing very incredible to me. In Cumberland, out of a certain kind of sand they extract salt; It were worth the while to tell in a few words at least, how they proceed in the doing thereof; Not only notice should be taken by the Husbandman, or Country-gentleman of the different colour, odour and taste of waters, as our Author wisheth them to do, ●adem, page 85. but also and much more (as a thing of a much greater and more particular concernment to them) of the wonderful and vast difference of waters (in which none of those three qualities is notably to be discerned) for the several uses of ordinary house-keeping of Husbandry, and of several Manufactures, page 86. If we may believe Glauber, there is scarce any sand without gold; I am very sure that whosoever believeth him herein, as in many other things, will find himself very foully deceived; Ibidem, save what is taken out of their Ditches. For the word Ditches no ways proper here, should be substituted Bogs, Fens, or Moors; It is indifferent good fuel, yea, many sorts of them are most excellent fuel. An Englishman speaking of turf, should not name Holland only, but Scotland and Ireland, in which two Country's turf is of very great and general use, page 87. There is a stone in Durham, out of which they make salt. I would we were told the manner hereof; Ibidem, Lead is found in Durham-wall: I would fain know what Durham-wall is, whether a Town or Country, and in what part of England, and why Derb●shi●e, where those famous Lead Mines are, is not at all named here, page 94. Opium is always an ingredient, this is too generally spoken, page 95. I am not well satisfied with what he says of transplanting Elephants into England, and making them of common use there, for many reasons; and I believe it would prove as hard a task to people in England, with any considerable store of Black Foxes, Musk-Cats, and some other of those Animals named, page 96. in these words.   

Paris, the second of December, 1651.  
THe conceit I find in your Legacy, page 99 Of the medicinal virtues of the plants being sublimed into the Infects bred out of them, is altogether destitute of truth, as very easily and practically may be demonstrated, page 101. That in Ireland rottenness of sheep is not known; It is too well known there, and even in my time, I have seen great mortalities of sheep caused thereby. Page 103. In Holland they keep their cattle housed winter and summer: I never knew any Cattle housed in Summer in my Country, but all about Paris that is very ordinary: Ibidem, they bury the grains in the ground; they keep them indeed in the ground; but in that manner as cannot well be called burying; for they dig holes a man's length deep and square, cemented not only in the bottom, but on all the four sides, with a wooden shut at the top, and there they keep their Grains, not lying loosely; but rammed as close as may be; Rapefeed-Cakes, Ibidem, he should have added Linseed-Cakes: Ibidem, Turnips; I never knew them given to Cows in Holland, but at R●ven, it is an usual thing to feed Cows therewith, and they do thrive wonderfully therewith, as I am told by an English Lady of my acquaintance, an excellent Housewife, who hath lived a great while in that City, eadem pagina, 103. which are constantly mowed twice or thrice yearly. I never in Holland saw or heard of any Meadows mown more than once a year: The Paradox held forth. Initio pagine, 104. of the cleanliness of Hogs, and their not loving Dirt: I believe not at all to be consonant to truth; especially in the second particular. Ibidem, (the Jews have a peculiar way) after those words, I could wish to be inserted; (which also anciently was most common among the Romans) For the liver of the Goose augmented to an excessive bigness by a peculiar kind of cramming, was one of the greatest dainties of the Romans, as may be seen in Pliny, lib. 10. cap. 22. and the Authors there alleged by the Scholiast.   

Paris, the 16 of December, 1651.  
JNstead of going on for to make an end of my Annotations upon your Legacy, to the end whereof I am well near come; I shall at this time step back for to tell you that one of Purcha● his Pilgrims having given us most amply and distinctly the whole manner of making the Caviar, as may be seen in his second T●me, page 1420. your friend will do well to leave that out of the Catalogue of those things, which page 81. he desireth to be informed of, by the travels of any Merchant of Gentleman: as likewise give you at large a Relation made to me within these few days by a brave English Lady, and an excellent Housewife, greatly confirming and illustrating the practice of feeding Cows with Turnips; of which page 103. she telleth me, that at Roven (where she hath lived a good while) and in all the Country round about it, they seed their cattle usually in this manner. Of Turnips (not of the best, but refuse ones, such as being worm-eaten, or otherwise faulty, are not good for man's meat) they boil a great many in a great Kettle, whole as they are, with their leaves on their tops; till they be tender, adding thereto good store of bran; (of Wheat only, because that, that of Rye, is scouring, and so not proper for them) and afterwards of the Cakes of Rape-seed, or Linseed; which cakes having a singular faculty of fatting cattle, they put much less of them into the Mesh for Mich-Cowes, (for fear of spoiling their Milk) then for other kind: of this they give them twice a day, so as it maketh the greatest part of their feeding, much more than the hay, which they give them betwixt while: and thus they feed them only in Wintertime, because that all the Summer long they keep them abroad at Grass: Whether this be used in Holland, as your friend saith, I cannot tell of my own knowledge; having never there seen it, nor heard of it: but in France it is of very old standing, as appear by these words of Columella, lib. 2. cap. 10. Rapa non homines solum, verum etiam boves pascunt, praecipuè in Gallia, ubi Hyberna cibaria praedictis pecudibus, id olus praebet. De-serres doth also speak of it, but very shortly, and only mentioning it in a word or two. lib. 4. cap. 9   

Paris, the 6. of January, 1652.  
IN the 104th. page of your Legacy, where I left with my last Annotations, I find these words: In Berkshire many keep tam● Pheasants, and have gained well thereby: The which having communicated to a brave English Lady here, a great friend of mine, who hath been a great Housekeeper in England, and is a most excellent Housewife; she tells me that at a Countryhouse of hers, not far from Chelsey, she had always great store of them; insomuch as she hath hatched to the number of 200 in one Spring: whereof though many died, yet far and far the greatest part would come to perfection. That of people of quality, she never knew any but here self who kept any; but that there is abundance in the parts near London, who keep them for to make profit of them, and sell them to the Poulterers, that there is nothing more easy to bring up, and to keep, than Pheasants; when they are once past the first Month: for till then, they must be kept only with Aunt's eggs, and feed on nothing else; of which one would think it a hard matter to get so many, but there are fellows in England, who for a little money will get one as many as one can desire: the first month being past, they are kept afterwards with Oats only, requiring nothing else: but as they love to be kept in Grassy fields: so one must change them somewhat oft to fresh grounds, because they taint the grass and the ground in the same manner, as Geese do, and for to keep them in, my Lady used to have some parcels of ground, where they were kept enclosed with lats.   

Paris the 13. of January 1652.  
YOu shall have now the Conclusion of my Annotations upon your Legacy according to your desire.  
In the bottom of page 104. your friend speaketh, as if the excellency of Butter and Cheese depended only on the handling of it, and that Cheese like to Parmesan and Holland Cheese, might be made in England, if the same industry were used there, as in those Countries which is nothing so: For though Art and Industry can do very much in this particular, as in most others, whereof I have seen most remarkable examples both in England and Ireland, yet there is something in the particular nature of different waters and different Soils, and of the food for cattle thereon growing: and consequently in that Cattles milk, and in the Butter and Cheese made thereof, which no Art nor humane skill can supply or imitate, no more than the same kind of Beer can be brewed in all places, or the same kind of Wine be made to grow on all grounds. And this is most manifest hereby, that in Holland itself there are made several sorts of Cheeses hugely different among themselves; which difference is most remarkable in those two excellent sorts, (viz) the Edam-Cheese (being that kind which is so much transported into foreign Countries, & every where known by the general Name of Holland-Cheese) & the Stolk-cheese. And if it should be thought, that that diversity proceedeth from the different make of cheese, used in the several parts of that country; I can assure you, that if you make Edam & Stolk Boors exchange their habi●atlons, and keep all their own fashions, each of them shall make Cheeses, not such as they were wont to make at home, but as used to be made in the places to which they are come. The like may be said of the green cheeses, made in Holland Sheep's milk, especially those of Gravesand, Tessel, and Grind; all three most excellent ones; and yet extremely differing among themselves. And not to go for examples of this, further than England itself; It were against all reason and experience to think that, that notable difference betwixt Suffolk and Cheshire-Cheeses, cometh only from the different way of making it. Another thing which I find fault withal in the same Discourse, is, that the Author nameth the French Angolots among the excellent sorts of Cheese; whereas they are nothing so, neither in their qualities, nor in their price, they being sold for two Sols a piece, whereas they use to weigh half a pound. I do likewise mislike, that he for to instance in the best kinds of Cheese; he fetcheth Parmesans and Holland-Cheeses from abroad, without taking notice; that at home in several parts of the Land, and particularly in Mountgomery-shire, Cheese is made equal to the best of these kinds; and at Chedder in Wiltshire, that which in my judgement is far to he preferred before them, and to any other Cheese in the world. Page 105. I cannot brook that he complaineth England hath but a Systema, or a complete Book of all the parts of Agriculture; and reckoneth Markham among them, who have writ only divers small Treatises of it: whereas Markham hath comprehended in his works whatever belongeth to any part of Husbandry, and Housewifery too; with very few and small omissions; such as in no wise can rob him of the name of a general writers; his works also having that excellency, that they are altogether squared for England, and go on experience, rather than on probabilities, and hearsays; to the contrary of what our Author seemed to tax in him, as well as in other writers of that kind; which maketh me suspect, that either he hath not at all been conversant in Mankham's writings; or that in reading of him he hath been strangely forejudged, he being in my opinion, one of the most excellent of his kind; and in many particulars to be preferred before the most excellent of them all. It is true what is said page 106. There were among the Ancient Romans some appointed to see that men did tell their Land as they should; but that which follows: And if they did not, to punish them as Enemies to the Public; is too hyperbolically spoken, there being a vast difference betwixt punishing one as an enemy to the Public, and a simple fining of him, which was all the punishment inflicted for that fault, as you may see in the twelfth Chapter of Aulus Gellius his fourth Book. In these words, page 107. He that turneth fruitful lands into barrenness, as the Land of Canaan, very fruitful heretofore, but now a barren Desert. Our Author says nothing, but what is common in the mouth and pens almost of every body, and yet the truth thereof is very questionable, as an observant Reader will easily find by the exactest and latest writers of that Country, among whom Eng. Royer is to be placed in the very first rank. By the way of addition to what heretofore I have told you upon that passage of your Legacy, which speaks of tame Pheasants, be pleased to take notice what I was told this week by an English Gentleman, viz. that many years since he hath known tame Pheasants kept in several parts of Buckinghamshire, especially in a Village a little beyond Wickham, where the people keep abundance; for to sell them off to the Poulterers of London. And at the same time an English Merchant told me, that above 25 years ago, he knew some kept at Middleberg in Zealand, and that Mr. William Courtine, the Brother of Sir William Courtine, had above a dozen pair of them. The same person also assured me from his own experience, that the Inhabitants of the Island. Chios keep huge numbers of tame Partridges, the which flying abroad most part of the day, do not fail to return every night each one to his own home, and likewise as oft as they are called by their Keepers, if they be any where within hearing of them. And he assured me, that they do this not only in the places they are used to, but any where, insomuch that if any man carry his Partridges twenty or thirty miles from his dwelling, and then letting them out of the basket, in which he hath brought them, throw stones among them, expressly for to scatter them, so as all of them do run or fly several ways, they will all come to him, as soon as he calleth them, and let themselves be taken up by him, the one after the other. And thus I make an end, having nothing to say to any thing contained in the following pages of your Legacy; the reprinting whereof with those alterations and amendments I have hinted to you, I do most earnestly wish for, it being indeed a most excellent piece; and from the beginning to the end fraught with most excellent observations and experiments.   

An Answer to the Animadversor on the Letter to Mr. Samuel Hartlib of Husbandry.  
TO begin with the first, which is about Blacklead, and so to take them in order.  
First, I affirm, and truly that Blacklead is found in Cumberland, and not in any other place of England, yea not in Europe that I can hear of, though I have diligently enquired concerning it. To prove this, you may read Master Cambden in his description of Cumberland, where he is much troubled to find what name the Ancients gave it, utr. Pignitica, and divers other names hardly understood.  
And 2. I know that out of England it is exported to Holland, Germany, France, Spain, and other parts of Europe, and and sold at a considerable rate per tun.  
And 3. Little mention is there of this among the late writers, as Agricola, Kentman, Boot de Boot, or Cysalpinus, unless it be what he calls Creta nigra, but because the Animadversor desireth further knowledge of this material, I shall briefly relate what I know of it.  
This Mine of Blacklead in Cumberland (as I am well informed) is in the hand of some few men, as Master Bolton and Master Bret, who live in Cornhill nigh the Exchange, and sell Colours, who once in seven years dig as much as they think convenient to serve, not to glut the Market, and then close the Mine up again: I suppose the Dutch Merchant, and consequently the Animadversor were mistaken, either through the similitude it hath to some kind of Slate, which colours the hands blackish, as the black Irish Slate, used much for bruises, and of which kinds I have observed, also divers sorts in New-England, as in Prudence-Isle, and elsewhere, but the blackness of the Slate hath not that glittering as the black-lead, or else from the Ambiguity of the word Black-lead, which is not only taken for this material, (which whether it be to be referred to Terra, Creta, Lapides, etc. I will not here dispute) but also for that sort of Lead, over which the Dutch call glack or glittering (as the Black-lead) much used by the Potters for nealing (as the Animadversor call it) or rather for leading their pots, which is abundantly found in some parts of Wales, and is fusible in the Potter's fire, which the other black-lead is not, neither doth it naturally contain any fusible Metal or Mineral, as I have proved: I think it likewise not amiss to certify that in New-England this Material is found in divers places; as at Nashaway about forty miles from Boston, as also on Pequat River about eighty miles from Boston: this last was given from the Court of Boston to a friend of yours and mine, viz. Mr. John Winthrop, this Gentleman sent divers pieces thereof to me, that I might inquire of some Dutch Merchants what price it bore in Holland, and how much might be vendible, which accordingly I did, and also showed it to the two Gentlemen above named, who were very inquisitive where I had it, and how much might be procured thereof, and desired that I would leave one of the greater pieces with them, that they might try it which I did; and the next morning enquiring again what they said to my black lead; they told me it was nothing worth, because it would not endure the Saw, they hoping, as I after found to have had enough for to have furnished Europe with black Combs, which are very rare and dear, a small one usually sold at twenty or thirty shillings: My friend Mr. W. hoped that this material had been Plumbago Cisalpini, which he also calleth Mater Argenti. But I suppose in this particular he was mistaken▪ yet upon Examination we found pure silver amongst it, which by calculation might amount to 15 l. per tun, though the black lead sent me, was found only on the surface of the earth: I am the longer on this discourse, because this material hath been little considered as yet by learned men that I can find, and also because my friend would be glad to have some ingenious men to join with him in a Work, which hath very great probabilities of very great profit to the undertakers.  
The common uses of black-lead, are first to make black-lead pens for Mathematicians, etc. 2. For Painters and Limners. 3. For those that work in Copper to make their hammer go glib. And lastly, if any great pieces be found, which is rare in Cumberland Mine, to make Combs of them, because they discolour grey hairs, and make black hair of a Raven-like, or glittering blackness, much desired in Italy, Spain, etc. But I cannot believe that the Potter's use it for nealing their pots (as the Animadversor saith) because it is altogether infusible.   

To the second Letter of the Animadversor.  
FIrst, I see the Animadversor is offended, though I hope without just cause, that I quote Glauber and Helmont, as men of learning and credit. I know that learned Writers scorn to quote Neotericks, but I hope without offence I may, because I only meddle with the plough, a rude and poor instrument, and Agriculture is commonly thought to require little learning or judgement, and being unlearned myself will not follow the Customs of those whom the World count profound and judicious.  
2. The Authors above mentioned are in good repute with divers whom I suppose learned.  
3. They have laboured and experimented much, as all men know, to find out the truth, and to advance the Commonwealth of learning: Some imperfections I impute to humane frailties, old age, etc. And I should be glad to see a solid answer to Helmont, who hath thrown down both Aristotle's Philosophy, and Galen● Physic; and as yet I have not seen any man who hath in any measure vindicated their old Masters. Further, I should rejoice to see an experimental Philosopher confute Glaubers Experiments by experience; till this be done, I cannot but account them ingenious men, and well deserving of the Commonwealth of Learning; and I cannot but account it robbery, or at least great ingratitude, to take any thing out of a learned Author, and not to acknowledge it, but to the particular Exceptions.  
The Army disease (saith Helmont) came into France, as also smutting of Corn, 1530. And the first seemeth to have proceeded from the latter; also at this time the Pox raged, which might also have some augmentation from this corruption of Corn. Although it never was my intention to defend other men's paradoxes, yet I cannot but so far defend him, as to show that what is here spoken, hath considerable probabilities for truth.  
And first, That the Smuttiness of Corn, and the Army disease came both together in France; I am much mistaken, if the French History do not report the same, and the Animadversor seemeth to grant it. As for the Pox it broke forth violently at Naples, 1594. in the French Army, as Helmont and Historians affirm; and was even then in some measure dispersed in Franse, but after this smuttiness of Corn, it might exceedingly more abound. As the Plague in London oftentimes lurks in divers corners many years, but breaketh not forth violently usually, but after scarcity; by the which the humours of the body are more corrupted by ill diet: But be it this or no, I will not further dispute; but will affirm thus much, that it is not an absurd and foolish conjecture, to say that the Army my disease might proceed from smuttiness of Corn, they both invading France at the same time; but the most probable I have yet seen, especially if that other part be added, viz. The body corrupted with the pox; for I have oft seen in Italy an ordinary ●eaver in such bodies to be at length not much unlike the forementioned disease, (and this is that Helmont especially drives at in his Book de peste, where he mentioneth only the Pox by the by:) and who knows not that the corruptions of the aliments sometimes produce even the plague, and I think that the corruption of the best aliments, as bread, and which are in most use with us, causeth the worst Epidemical diseases; to the which Hypocrates seemeth to allude, where he saith, Corruptio panis pessima; and it is also too well known, that we who have within these few score of years, altered very much our diet and customs, as by bringing in of hops into our drink.  
2. Using abundance of Sack, which in Queen Elizabeth's days was sold in the Apothecary's shops.  
3. By using of Sugar, Currant, and other sweet things abundantly.  
4. By taking Tobacco in smoke.  
5. By using Sea-coals abundantly in London, and through the Country.  
6. By using frequently Dyet-drinks, Purgations, Vomits, Blood-letting, Issues, which were scarcely known to our forefathers.  
7. I may add the living altogether on flesh, which in the times of Popery, we did not: I say have caused not only great alterations in our wills and dispositions, but also in respect of health and sickness. Some sickness not being known now, which formerly did much annoy, as the sweeting sickness in Hen. 7. and before, as also the leprosy which Mr. Cambden thinks came from Egypt, where it abounds very much, Christians getting something for their holy voyaging; but Physicians say it came from eating of fish; for where most fish was eaten, there it most abounded; and eating of fish being left; that noisome disease (God be thanked) is even totally unknown, and all Hospitals for them dissolved: and on the contrary, many diseases assaulting us, some totally unknown, as the Rickets; others not so much known, as the Stone, Gout, Consumptions, Ptysick, Fluores Muliebres: and here I will briefly according to my Countrey-Philosophy tell you how these new diseases are caused: and first from the Hop, Sack, Spices, I suppose the Gravel, Stone, Gout; from Sugar and Currant, and sweet things, which spoil the stomach, and make the body tender, soft, custard-like, easily melted into fluxes, proceed Fluores Muliebres, abortion, and a foundation for the Rickets, and other indisposition in children, ex parte matris. From Tobacco (which is a kind of poison contrary to our natures, as it appears by the first taking, causing Vomits, Faintings, cold sweats, though use afterwards mitigates these Symptonies', as the Turks by use take abundance of Opium, as much I may say, in one day, as will kill twenty English men: likewise it taketh away the appetite, not by real satiating, but by its Narcotickness deluding nature) since follows the abating of the strength, and vigour of the body, the dulling and minishing of the Spirit, and consequently the dulness and paucity of spirits in children, which as the learned Physicians hold, is the special cause of the Rickets, ex parte viri: Sea-coal causeth consumption, Ptysicks, and the indisposition of the lungs, not only by the suffocating by abundance of smoke, but also by virulency: for all subterrany fuel hath a kind of virulent or arsenical smoke, which as it speedily destroys those that dig in Mines, so doth it by little and little those who use them here above: therefore these diseases most afflict about London, where the iron Casements, and all iron things are soon consumed by the smoke thereof, and less in pure clear air, where this fire is not used. The great and frequent use of purgations (which are smaller poisons, for they extract the good humours as well as the bad, as most Physicians confess) and Blood-letting do cause that infirm, weak, & feminine disposition in many natures. And to these causes abovementioned, add Idleness, Gluttony, Drunkenness, not much known till Queen Elizabeth: for then the first Statute was made against Drunkenness, the Pest of Whoring, and the consequences thereof, as general causes of all indisposition abovesaid, and of hundreds more, and to conclude of shortness of life.  
In Friar Bacon's time, which was above 400 years ago, Countrymen lived strong and lusty, even to seven score, eight score, as he reports in his Book De Pet. Artis, & Naturae: Now how rare is an old man of an hundred years, not because the World decays, as Master Hakewell learnedly shows, but we by reason of our folly, live not our half our days. But I desire pardon for this long digression, it being only to show that the alteration of diet causeth many diseases, and the corruption thereof many Epidemical indispositions, and that to say Smuttinesse of Corn produced the Army Disease, is not so absurd as the Animadversor would have it. As for the Pox, which Helmont doth but lightly touch, I will not long discourse, whether it proceeded from eating man's flesh at Naples, (as Lord Bacon and others seem to affirm) or from the Indieses, which is most likely; but how it first came amongst them, is very difficult to know, it's most probable from their base corrupt diet, eating man's flesh, not using salt, or any thing of high taste, as I have observed amongst the Indian's of New England, where i● abounds, or perhaps from Bestialitys: But I may before I am aware engage myself in that hard Question concerning Contagion, which I acknowledge is too hard for me, as also the cause of the extreme multiplication of poisons. He that can tell me how Ferments operate, or how water contracts a mustiness, of wounderful extension, and like fire infinitely multiplyable; Erit mihi Magnus Apollo.   

Animadversor. Smutty Corn is a similar distemper, and therefore not visible by the Microscope, etc.  
IF by Similar Distemper, the Animadversor mean, as I suppose he doth, total corruption, than he is mistaken in the English word. For the total corruption of Wheat into Smuttinesse, which being broken, flies into black dust, we call smutty bags, and these have lost their specifique and vegetative virtue, so that they will not grow, as I have tried divers times: but what we may call smutty wheat, is only a partial corruption, and may partly be seen by the eye, the wheat being dark and black, especially about the eye; it's also spongy, soft, hollow, light: I say that perhaps the imperfection of this grain, whether it be external, as some erosion Canker, or some more inward indisposition may by the Microscope be perceived, for by it (as I have seen) strange inequalities, roughness, and as it were veins dissemmated throw the body of the seeds are plainly discerned, which the eye cannot: and further by experience I know, that the vegetative virtue of the seed lieth in that part which we call the eyes. For I have cut divers grains in the midst, and sown them, and that half which had the eye with it unhurt, grew as well as if it had been a whole Corn, the other part not; so that I had above two thousand increase for one half of a grain, and very excellent Corn, in some ears an hundred grains, in many ninety: This causeth me to question that which I have oft heard amongst Country men that Pease eaten by Maggots will grow, but produce Maggots: for if the eye be whole, the difference will be found nothing betwixt these and others.   

Animadversor. Corn sown in Summer, viz. July, will not come to good.  
NOt only my friend's experience, but also mine own doth manifest the contrary: and I question not, but his own experience, if he please to try, will show the contrary. For Corn sown in July will not run to an ear till the next year, though it be warm Land, and if it should begin to spindle, (as the Husbandmen call it) it is very easy by mowing or feeding it down with cattle to prevent it: and here I think it not amiss to relate what Alex. Guagnini reports of Poland in this kind. They begin to sow Rye the fifth of August, (which I suppose is twenty days before ours) and end about the latter end of the same month, or else they have no crop to speak of, also there is a new way used in Lands newly burnt thus: With two parts of Barley they sow one part of Rye; the Barley is reaped the same year, the Rye or Wheat groweth little till the Barley is off, than it will grow thick like grass all the winter, and next year it is reaped: it groweth so thick that an horse ●an scarce get through it, out of one grain come thirty or forty ears a man on horseback can scarce look over it, and the Farmer reapeth an hundred for one: by this you may see that what I say is not only true, but also much practised, and that with incredible profit, and to me the reasons are manifest: for the advantages of early sowing are these.  
First, The lesser quantity of Seed is necessary.  
Secondly, The Corn is well grown, and strong before the Winter, and therefore more able to endure the nipping frosts, which oft killeth Corn newly come up.  
Thirdly, It getteth advantage in the Spring of weeds, grass, wild oats, etc. which choke much Corn, the ground being stocked with Corn so that there is no room for them to grow. I know one who having his ground overrun with weeds and wild-oats, by sowing Rye early, had very good and clear corn. But some will object, that the strength of the Corn and Ground is exhausted thereby.  
To these I answer, First, They do not consider the even infinite power of living creatures, who will infinitely increase, if nourishment fail not, as fire will, if wood be laid to it, and that without wearisomeness, by virtue (as I suppose) of the divine Benediction in them.  
2. They are ignorant of the Causes of fertility; for I suppose that straw or blade exhausteth ground no more than the boughs and leaves of Trees do, which we see is little or nothing in wood continually lopped: but to know the true cause of fertility, I account difficult, yet shall briefly declare some thoughts of mine concerning it in another place.   

Animadversor. His Philosophy concerning Moor-logs no ways receivable.  
IN Moorish places two sorts of wood are found, One very black like Ebony, and it is a kind of Oak: Another sort less black or dusky, and is a kind of Pine or Fir. In the North of England I have seen it sold publicly, being slit in small pieces to light Tobacco: it's not unlike the wood which in New-England is called Candle-wood or Pitch-pine. Concerning the blackness of these woods I say, that it proceedeth from the turfy earth, wherein these Trees lie; which earths, and all other earth's (as I suppose) and subterrany things in their proper places hath an innate power to transmute other extraneous things into their own nature: many examples of this hind we see in nature: to instance only in putrifying spirits or juces which transmute not only wood, but also shells, bones, metals, into their strong nature without destroying the external form: so (I say) this earth endeavoureth to alter or change these Trees into its turfy nature; and I suppose it hath already changed, as I suppose, the smaller boughs into its nature, and introduced some indispositions into the greater wood: for this earth hath a peculiar and more manifest faculty of multiplying, than other earth's have: for when it is exhausted it groweth again, as I have heard of divers worthy of credit, if so be the water be kept on it all winter, and permitted to run forth in the Spring, which good Husbandry I have seen practised in divers places; and further every one observeth, that it presently stops the Channels and Ditches which are cut through this kind of earth: and therefore from the Vapours, Fumes, or Effluvia, call them what you will; for I think all multiplicative Acts to proceed from such spiritual things, and not from bodies; and of this earth, doth this alteration or blackness of the wood proceed, as in putrification is seen, and not as in putrefaction: for the wood is strong, firm, and oft used for boards and building: as to explain myself, Smoak will discolour any thing that is long hung up in it, but in this there is a vital, active, multiplicative Energy, which worketh not by putrefaction, which in smoke is wanting: that the Pine is not so soon changed as the Oak, it is because it is of a more resinous or oil nature, Pitch, Rosin, and Turpentine, being made out of such Trees, and therefore it is not so easily penetrated: This is in brief my Philosophy concerning Moonlog, if I am in an error, I will thank him that shall show me the truth.   

Animadversor. Too credulous to Glauber, who will make Beer without malting, etc. Aquavitae, etc. out of Haws, Canker-berries, etc.  
TO which I answer, That Beer may be made of Wheat, Barley, Pease, etc. unmalted, I question not; for it is ordinay to add Wheat ground, or Beans with Malt to make the Beer stronger, and with good success. Also Cromer in his Description of Poland saith, that they oft make Beer of Wheat ground, etc. yea I know that Potatoes maketh excellent drink in Barbadoes; also in New-England the stalks of Virginian wheat, as it is usually called. Squashes or Gourds, Pumpions boiled make considerable drink; Parsnips make that which is accounted rare; therefore much more the Grains above mentioned: But the great question is, Whether Wheat, Barley, etc. malted or unmalted will make most and best Beer, or Aquavitae. Glauber affirms he knows how to make more of Corn unmalted then malted, which though I will not positively maintain; yet I suppose that I can make it appear, that it is not only possible, but probable it is so by divers Arguments, besides Glaubers testimony: for,  
First, An ingenious Chemist of my acquaintance, altogether unacquainted with Glauber and his writings, hath affirmed to me, that he hath oft experimented it, and hath proffered wagers even to Brewers concerning this. 
De La. Nature de Plants. 593.  Also De La Brosse Physician to the King of France, and Keeper of the Royal Garden at Paris, affirmeth, that out of twenty of Wheat fermented his way, he can draw forth no less than three pints, and a Chopin of excellent Aquavitae, which is above three English pottles; more by far then any will undertake to draw out of the like quantity of Wheat maulted: and further it is without question, that some of the virtue of the Barley is drawn away by steeping in water, for oft the water at the bottom is very red: and also by the sprouting, for that usually is dried up, and goes away into dust, only used for the enriching of Corn Lands, and further the difference between the weight of Barley and Malt is very considerable, Malt being lighter than Barley, as I have tried by a fourth part, or thereabout, which is certainly a diminution of the flower or strength, for the husk is the same in both. Further, what good this fermenting or maulting doth further than to soften the Grain, and make it spongy, so that the liquor may more easily penetrate, and liquefie the flower or nutritive part thereof into a sweet juice, which juice after by fermentation or working doth more separate itself from the grosser parts, and so at length pleasant drinks, and Aquavitae is made thereof, which things I suppose may as well, if not better be accomplished by other ways of fermentation, and all the virtue of the Grain preserved: But enough of this Paradox.  
2. I suppose that all who have the least skill in distillations now, that if any liquor will ferment, it will produce an Aquavitae, yea and that Spirits or Aqua-vites may be drawn in some measure even out of Roses, Violets, Cold Plants; why then is it so observed to say that Aquavitae may be drawn from Hawks and Hips, etc. For though they are fruits of unpleasant tastes, yet we know that even the roughest and harshest Pears will make Perry not inferior to the best, and in Normandy such a kind of Pear is in greatest use: and further (though I will not affirm, that the Aquavitae of any thing may be made as good as that of Wine, etc. as a late French Writer doth) yet I say that ingenuity will advance much in this kind, and cannot but once again exhort men to try what may be had out of such common and trivial things as Haws, Hips, Blackberries, etc.   

Animadversor. Fond opinion of Astrologers.  
FIrst, I name none in particular. 2. The worst word I use is fond, which is not always taken in the worst sense, and then at worst it is but a diminution of folly, and may only be applied to that particular wherein they err, but because it offendeth, I desire that hereafter it may be expunged, as also [degrees] to be changed into a thousand miles.  
How, is an instrument well known about London, and in all Plantations, with which they cut off weeds. I suppose it comes from the French word Hoyan, which instrument is used about their Vines.  
Wheat is said to lodge when through rankness it falleth, and lieth on the ground. Hips are not Haws, but rather what grows or Eglantine, Rosa Canina, Piles are pieces of Timber driven into the ground to break the violence of the Seas and Rivers.  
Glassenbury thorn is called of Parkinson, Spina acuta bistora Britanica, because it usually blassometh at Christmas, (as also Walnut-tree in New-Forrest in Wiltshire) and after in May, as other thorns. Simple people call it Joseph of Arimathea's staff, and repute it among the wonders of England, but it's found growing elsewhere.   

To the third Letter of Animadversions concerning Cider.  
I say in my former discourse, and truly, that there are two ways of making Cider.  
First, After the juice of the fruit is expressed, presently to put it into Barrels, and there to let it work as Beer usually doth, and that there is not any necessity to put it first into Caves or great Tubs to work in, and thus I have oft seen it made in Kent, and very good.  
The second way, which I especially commend, is to boil the juice sometime over the fire gently either by itself alone, or with some good spices, and then to make it work with some barm or yeast, as Beer doth, and afterwards to barrel it, and bottle it up; and this truly I conceive to be the best way for many reasons; and I suppose the West-country Gentleman, whom the Animadversor quoteth, consenteth to this way; for he acknowledgeth that by boiling it may be kept longer, and that is fitter for long Sea-voyages, and consequently better; for boiling purifieth, disgesteth, and taketh away windiness, and crudities, as we daily see in boiling of Beer, and Ale especially if it be with spices: Now this boiling aught to be before the working or fermenting; for then the watery part flieth away first, and there is not any considerable decay of the Spirits: but if Cider be boiled after it hath wrought (as we call it) than the Spirit. Aquavitae, or life of the liquor first flies away, as it is well known even to all Aquavitae Distillers and nothing remaineth but a dead, flat, unpleasant liquor, nauseous to the stomach, and also narcotick and very in-ebriating, as I have found by experience: for on a time distilling a strong red wine, called Tont, that I might have a fine spirit for a peculiar use; I received what remained in glass bottles well stopped for some other occasions. But a servant-maid of my brothers, supposing it had been that good wine she saw me bring into my Chamber, was so bold as to drink two or three spoonfuls, which caused her to be extremely sottishly drunk: her Mistress seeing her in that case, examined her what she ailed, she truly told her, that she had only tasted a little (and truly it was but a little) of that wine I had in my Chamber; her Mistress presently came to me with open mouth, fearing her maid had been poisoned; but when I had told them the whole truth, the fear was turned into laughter and amazement; and then I remembered what formerly I had read in De la Brosse, his History natural, concerning the in-ebriating virtue of the slegm of wime, which Doctor French likewise hath published in English in his Book of Chemistry.   

To the fourth Letter of the Animadversor.  
FIrst, I answer, that I am not mistaken; for I certainly know, that we have Quinces from Flaunders, Chestnuts from Portugal, Walnuts from France in considerable quantities. I deny not but that they may also come from other parts; but if Walnuts come from Holland, as the Animadversor saith, I am sure that they grow not there, etc. Further I affirm, and truly, that small nuts are oft brought of Spain in abundance, and it is well known to all, which nut is very small, but it hath a very thin shell, and a fine taste a filbert: I grant also that some years Ireland in the woody parts thereof hath plenty of small nuts, but these nuts have thicker shells, and have not that sweet taste that the Spanish have, yet in Ulster, where woods do abound, I never knew them cheaper than in Kent. Neither can Ireland supply the World, nay, not England with these nuts; for the greater part thereof is extremely destitute of woods.  
Concerning brewing without multing Corn, I have already spoken, and I hope shown probabilities, that it is not only feasible, but also to be done with profit.   

Animadversor. Grafting, Inoculating, &c. cannot be learned in two hours.  
I answer, That the Rules for grafting and inoculating are so easy, the instruments so few and common, that I suppose a less time may suffice; and I know divers who can both graft, and inoculate excellently, and yet have obtained this Art, only by beholding a Gardener grafting and inoculating, & that but a little while: but I confess that to be excellent in this Art, as in all other handicrafts, there is required a convenient time, continual use, and a promp and ready hand, which every man hath not.   

Animadversor. Vines flourish not many hundred miles' North of Alsatia, in France, Lorayn, Germany.  
Answer, That it is so in Germany, (when Vines flourish not only in Silesia and the Palatinate, but also in Brandenb●●g, and also in Prussia, as Cromer reports) will plainly appear, as also in France, where Vines grow very far North in Picardy, and Champeigne: so likewise in Lorayn, and in those places betwixt France and Germany, (not to speak of the excellent wine in Arbois in the free County) Vines flourish even in Liegh, also about Lovayn, which are very far North many hundred miles from Alsatia.   

Animadversor. Vines grow not sixty miles' North of Paris.  
Answer, That by the way of Beaumond and Beauvois, I I have seen them flourish nigh twenty leagues from Paris, and that they may flourish more North, divers think, and blame either the negligence or ignorance of the Inhabitants. Moreover by the way of Pontois, through Normandy, Vines do flourish even so far North as Arles, 35 leagues from Paris, and within five leagues of deep; and I think if the Soil of Normandy were warm land, they might flourish further North, but Normandy is a stiff, chalky land, very improper. Rheims also is above twenty leagues, N. E. of Paris hath abundance of vines and is accounted the staple of wines in those parts: Therefore it will plainly appear vines to flourish sixty miles' North of Paris, and consequently little from the latitude of some parts of England, viz the South-West part of England; and therefore I cannot but again desire ingenious Gentlemen to endeavour the planting of vines with us, especially those four sorts I have formerly mentioned, (according to that way that Captain Tuck an ingenious Gentleman of great Chart in Kent doth) and that Vines will prosper, is not only probable for the reasons aforesaid, but also because the vines flourish also naturally in Canada a very cold place, and also Mr. 
page 71.  Cambden reporteth that many hundred years since, that vines did very much flourish in Brit●ain, and of latter years at Ely in Cambridgshire, at Ley in Ess●x, as it appears in Dooms Book were six. Arpens of Vines, and it yielded twenty Modes of wine; also he accuseth us of negligence and sloth, that there are not Vineyards in England at present; Also William of Malmsbury, who lived before William the Conqueror, speaketh of the Wine of England, 
Cancrone. 35·7  and saith it is little inferior to the French, not having such an unpleasant tartness, but not long after William, and his Sons reign, Gascony fell to the English, and so remained three hundred years, which might be the true cause of the ruin of vineyards. Yet at this day I know divers Gentlemen in Kent, who make some Hogsheads of good wine most years, and every year plant more. I hope this business will be prosecuted more generally through this Land, seeing it will conduce very much to the profit, pleasure, and honour of this fortunate Isle.   

Animadversor. Pack in so many Plants about Paris, etc.  
I mean not of different Species, but of the Plants of vines, as many well appear by the following words; viz. That they may have greater increase, etc. And I question not, but that the Animadversor hath observed the same fault; for the vineyards about Paris have usually twice the number of vine-plants on their ground as are necessary; and farther it is certain, that if the Vines were thinner, the Wine would be better, because the Vines do shade one another.   

Animadversor. To short Poles as we do Hops, etc.  
It is well known that we tie not Hops to short poles, but to long ones; and therefore I compare the Vine and Hop together in this respect only, that both want poles to uphold them; but because that the sense is not clear to all, in the next Impression a word or two should be added: viz. Hops to long ones.   

Animadversor. Pressing with the feet not frown in the Northern parts of France, etc.  
I lived in Charanton two leagus from Paris, a whole Vintage, purposely to see how wine was made in France, and never saw any other way used there; only the husks at the conclusion use to be brought to the great Press, out of which they express some small quantity of wine, and therewith usually fill their Hogsheads, which usually waste in the working: and further in Italy, I never saw any other way used. Moreover, to tread out wine with the feet, is, as I suppose, an old custom, and no disparagement to the wine; for we know that most of the Baker's bread in England is kneaded with the feet, and yet none are offended at it: Neither did I ever see it work in Caves or great Vessels (unless for 24 hours) as is ordinarily in Lombardy, in Italy, by eight, ten, or twelve days, but presently in France they put it into Hogsheads, and there let it work, keeping them always full, that the scum of froth may go forth. Neither do I see any considerable inconvenience by doing thus, only a greater quantity of gross lees will be at the bottom of the wine; but if wine shall any time work in great tubs with the husks of the Grapes, it will lose its colour, grow Garbo, or rough, flattish, etc.   

Animadversor. That would destroy.] A bitter word against my Countrymen, etc.  
I particularise no Nation, and we have the aforesaid Commodities from divers Countries. viz. Poland, France, Germany, Holland, Flanders. I am sorry that the Animadversor did so unhappily apply it to his own Country, and that against my will I am a true Prophet. But whatsoever is bitter I disallow, and wish it expunged; for I protest against it, and really did wonder to see it in my discourse, hating tartness in writings. I hope my pen shall slip so no more, yet I should be glad if the State would seriously consider what extreme inconveniencies may fall on this Nation through want of Hemp and Flax, and how easy it is to have sufficient for ourselves; as I have showed in my former discourse.   

Animadversor. Nothing more hurtful to fruitfulness, then common salt, etc. Niter the only fructifying salt, etc.  
Though I consent with the Animadversor, that to speak plainly, so as the Countryman may understand me; I say that Niter is the specal cause of fruitfulness, yet I cannot deny Salt to be the greatest enemy to it. For first about Nantwich, where much salt is made by boiling salt-water, the refuse salt doth very much improve their Meadows; and Palissy a French Author doth likewise affirm, that salt doth cause divers places about Rochel to be very fruitful; also Sea-sand, as I suppose, hath its fruitfulness from the salt in it: Likewise the salt of ashes, etc. seemeth to me to have as much, if not more affinity to common salt as to Niter, as appears by its Cubick form; yet they do much fertilise both Corn and Pasture: Further, the Lord Bacon, whose authority is of good credit with us, attributeth fertility to salt. As also Markham, whom the Animadversor approveth of as an experienced Husbandman, who prescribeth common salt always to be mixed with his Grain for the obtaining of incredible Crops. Indeed, I grant, that if too great a quantity be used through the corrosiveness thereof, it causeth barrenness; but the like we may say of Lime, Soot, Ashes, etc. yea of Niter itself; for I know by experience, that under great Pigeon-houses, Walnut-trees, as Vines, Peaches, etc. will not prosper; and I know no other cause then this, That too great a quantity of Pigeons dung doth fall down from the Roof of the house, and so the Trees are destroyed.   

Animadversor. They in Holland preserve their Dung and Urine, no otherwise then elsewhere, etc.  
They are far more careful than we are in England: so that the Sun may not exhaust the virtue, nor the rain wash away the strength thereof, which I note as a good kind of Husbandry, both to be commended and imitated.   

Animadversor. Italy sendeth forth little paper, as also Holland, etc.  
The finest paper we have in England, comes from Genoa and Venice, yet not so much from the latter place as formerly, since the plague there 1630. Much of this paper is gilded with Gold on the edges. Holland ships not only furnish us with a thick strong white paper, which is commonly called Dutch paper, but also abundantly with a strong brown paper much desired by the Grocers. (Although at present, less is imported because we have many Paper-mills lately erected) but whither this be made in Holland, Friezland, in Germany, or elsewhere, I dispute not.   

The fifth Letter of the Animadversor.  
The Abel Tree is a Popular, not a Salix.  
I Thank the Animadversor for reforming my error; for I was informed that it was a kind of Sallow, but it seemeth it is a kind of Popular or Asp; and so at length by enquiry I have found it named by Parkinson in his Herbal.   

Animadversor. The profit of Silk is not so great as of Corn and Wine to France.  
I do not positively affirm it, but only report it upon the credit of a late French Writer, whose name I at present remember not, and I am also far from my Library, that I cannot turn to him: It indeed seemeth to me likewise very probable, for I know that Corn and Wine are heavy, bulky commodities, of low rate, Wine sometimes being not much more worth than the Barrel, and Corn scarce a Merchandable commodity in any place, yea France itself sometimes wants it: so that a little Silk will balance these two, and France as it is well known hath not only sufficient for itself, but many Plushes, Velvets, and other Manufactures of Silk, were in a considerable quantity exported for England till the late prohibition; and why may not Silk do that in France, it doth in Italy. Yea that which all will grant Flax doth for Linen, Canvases, etc. and are of greater value.   

Animadversor. Silk is a stranger to the parts that are nigh England's Temper.  
King James, and his learned Council in their Letter to the Deputy Lieutenants affirm the contrary, and bring this as an Argument to encourage the people to set upon this work.  
Secondly, Much Silk is made at Tours, (yea I am informed that that populous Town doth even totally subsist by it) which place is not very much different from England's temper, being not much above two degrees from the South of England: and I say again, if Silkworms are come even out of Persia, China, and those very hot Countries, as far as the heart of France, which is very temperate▪ and yet these Worms thrive very well there; why may they not come a little farther, and why do we not strive to advance them here as well as France? yea we find by experience, that some few Gentlewomen have bred divers up for their pleasure, even as far North as Duckenfield in Cheshire, where some quantity of Silk hath been made, yet this place is nigh as far North of some places of England. As they of Tours. Moreover, a Lady (Virginia F.) as I have lately seen in print, hath hatched worms in England, and then turned them forth to the Mulberry-trees, exposed to the cold and moisture of the Air, and yet they have done well, yea better than those within doors. These and other reasons do so far convince me, that I cannot but again and again desire ingenious men to proceed in this rich and pleasant work.   

Animadversor. Moisture is no way nourishing to these Worms,  
First, I say in general, that heat and moisture are the two great Causes of Infects; where these abound, Infects abound, where one of these are wanting there are but few engendered, And why should we exempt these from the common generation of Infects? and consequently if engendered by these, nourished by these according to the old Axiom, Ex iis nutrimur, ex quibus constamus.  
And 2. We know that the damp, moist Woods of Virginia do breed Silkworms of an incredible bigness, surpassing the Spanish and Italian. And likewise that a Lady in England (as I have it from a friend whom I dare believe) turning the Silkworms not long after they were hatched into the Mulberry-trees, by experience found, that they prospered better than those that were kept dry within door: 
Sir Ja. Craig.  yea in Ireland in the County of Cavan in Ulster [the moistest of all places] a Gentleman kept divers Silkworms, which prospered very well, and therefore I cannot think moisture, as moisture, any considerable enemy to them; for of itself it hath little activity, and if these worms shall not thrive in any place, I will rather attribute it to cold which is known to be an active quality, and the great destroyer of all Infects; for we see in England that moist Summers do increase Flies, Gnats, Butterflies, etc. and it is the cold winds and frosts that destroy them; yet I will grant that moisture accidentally hurts, viz. as it introduceth too much frigidity, or if it be too much in their meat, it may cause fluxes, rotting, etc. as it doth to Coneys, Guiny-pigs, etc. As for Bonveil who hath writ of Silkworms, I have both read him, and commend him; Libavius also I have, and even all his many Volumes: but in my opinion he hath written Multa, sed non Multum.   

Animadversor. Sassafras, Sarsaparilla, and Snake-weed, I am sure will not grow to purpose.  
First, why not? I am sure that Sassafras groweth in the Northern Plantations of New-England, even as far North as Sacho▪ where the Snow usually lieth five months, and the Winter extreme bitter in respect of England: and further this Sassafras is not a small plant or shrub easily nipped with the frost, but a great Tree, so that boards of ten inches Diameter have been made thereof; and further, where it once groweth, hardly to be destroyed: so that it much annoyeth the Corn by its young shoots, and the Mower in Harvest more than any other Tree that I heard of in that Country. I was informed that the Native Indians of the place, when they lose themselves in the Woods, presently run to these small shoots, and thereby know which is North and South. Indeed I have observed that one side is more speckled than another, and perhaps other small shoots of plants are so, but not as yet observed (for aught I know) of any. This Plant is not sufficiently described by Gerrard, Johnson, Parkinson, or any that yet I have seen.  
For first, They speak not of any flowers, and yet it hath fair, white, large flowers, almost as big as Rosa Canina, but I perceived little smell in them, though all other parts of this Plant, as leaves, bark, wood, and root especially, are very odoriferous.  
Secondly, They mention not the seeds which are about the bigness of Bay-berries, many of which I sent out of New-England, some of which grew in York-Garden at London, but through mishap perished.  
Thirdly, This tree is not always green, as Parkinson, Johnson. saith, but in New-England casteth its leaves. Perhaps in Florida it may perpetually be green; for I know that in New-England the wild-Bays (which is like our common bays in smell and leaves) casteth its leaf in Winter, as also a kind of ●ir about Casho-bay, (out of which is extracted a very odoriferous gum) and others in like manner, etc. In New-England divers in the beginning of their plantations, used this Plant in their Beer, hoping that it would have served both for malt and spice, but it deceived their expectations. For in my apprehension it giveth a taste not pleasant, and also they that accustomed themselves to this drink, especially in the Summer found themselves faint and weak, not able to endure labour.   

Animadversor 2. Sarsaperilla will not thrive in England, etc.  
First, Smilax (to which this is referred) is twofold.  
1. Aspera, which is not found as yet with us.  
2. Levis, or Convolvulus, this groweth naturally wild with us, whose leaves though they differ much from the former, yet the root is very like, as I have seen them compared together; and further the virtues also; as I have been credibly informed by divers ingenious Apothecaries.  
2. This Smilax aspera is found not only in Peru, etc. But also in Virginia (as I am informed by divers) which is a Country whose Winters are far more piercing then in England.  
3. In New-England I have seen a Plant with good success used for Sarsaperilla, which is a plant about one foot and an half high with an upright stalk, with some few leaves at the top; I at first sight, thought it the plant called Herba Gerardi, but the root is very like the Sarsaparil, commonly used with the pithyness, which maketh me to think that there are divers species of these Smilaxes; some of which may well thrive and prosper in England, especially those that grow in New-England and Virginia, but concerning this plant and divers others, which grow in New-England, I cannot give you that account I desire, because my seeds and papers unhappily miscarried.   

Animadversor 3. Rattle-snake Grass will not thrive, etc.  
Parkinson, an able Botanic, saith it flourisheth with us in June and July, and therefore what should hinder it from thriving to the purpose?  
2. Virginia (as I said before) hath sharper Winters than England, and yet there it groweth abundantly in the Woods without cultivation, why not with us therefore by good managing and art? When I was in New-England I was acquainted with an ancient Gentleman, who also was a Scholar, and had lived ten years in Virginia, who certified me that there were two sorts of Rattle-snake-weeds, the greater, and the less. That which he called the greater I casually had in my hand, it was a bulbous plant, about the bigness of a Pigeons egg, and ●ilky in the root, it grew in the water, and the leaves like Pistolochia: he told me that this was accounted the best; the second is called the less; and according to parkinson's description the leaves are like the former, but the root is fibrous, and this is that which is commonly brought for England; and for my part I suppose, and upon good grounds, that not only the former, but also the latter will thrive with us. I have oft desired many of my friends and acquaintance to send me this plant, and divers others which grow even at their doors, but could never prevail so far with them, and have far greater hope of the flourishing of this wild plant, that of Tobacco, (either of that which in New-England is called Poak, much differing from the Virginian, or of that other commonly used and sown in Virginia) for they grow not naturally in these places, and yet Tobacco so flourisheth in England, that it pleaseth the State to take notice of it, and by an Act to prohibit it. And though I cannot deny but God hath given his peculiar blessings to every Country: yet it doth not hence follow, that nothing which groweth in an hot Country will thrive in these more Northern Climates; for most of our curious plants, as Apricocks, Peaches, etc. Flac. Pernvianus, Juca, etc. came at first from hot Countries, yet thrive well with us: yea true, Rhenbarb: (if we will believe Parkinson) which formerly hath only grown in the East-Indyes, groweth abundantly with us. This I am sure, if it be not the same, it is very like in virtue: and daily we find that things brought out of a hot Country do flourish with us, as lately the great Spanish Cane (much used by Weavers and Vintners.) Master John Tradeskin brought from the Western-Isle, and it flourisheth well in his Garden, and groweth great and tall.   

Animadversor. So of Pines and Cedars, etc.  
I wonder that the Animadversor should question the growth of Pines in England, seeing they grow commonly in the Plain of Poland, as Cromer saith, and the Pitch-tree is a kind of Pine growing even in the coldest places. In New-England I have seen Pines above four foot Diameter, and the length accordingly, even in the most Northern places. Further, these commonly grow in the Gardens about London: so concerning Cedars, they grow of a very great height and bigness in the Northern parts of New-England, where show lieth five or six months, and therefore I do not any ways question their growing with us: and do again note that the neglect of these as also of the Fir-tree, is a great deficiency in England; and to what a strait our State might now be driven for Masts, did not New-England furnish us? as also for Pitch and Tar, is well known. And yet these Trees will grow in very barren land, and are sweet growers. Yea, as it appears by our Mosses they have formerly grown in, England. Further, many will stand in a little ground, so that I dare boldly aver, that one thousand Acres planted with these Trees would in forty years serve this Isle with Masts for ever, and help us to great quantities of Pitch and Tar; for where these Trees once take, they are very hardly destroyed, as I have observed in New-England, where on an Isle every year in Summer, the Planters spent a day or two to cut them down, that the place might pasture the better for their young Cattle, but these Trees did presently grow again, so that they gave over their intentions, seeing their labour fruitless: but whether or no these Cedars (which are both white and red) of New-England and Barmudaes'▪ be the same with those of Libanus, which are Coniferae, I will not dispute, or whether they be a kind of Juniper, as Parkinson saith; so far as I have observed the leaves of the smaller shrubs are rough and prickly, and the berries not only the Junipers.   

Animadversor. Lucerna is without doubt Medica veterum, and well known.  
I much question it, for first Johnson, and Gerrard, and Parkinson, our best Herbalists do rather think Medica veterum to be Saint Foin.  
2. Though I have had above twelve sorts of Medicays, yet they are all Annual, and our Herbalists do not mention any other Medicaies; But be it so, as the Animadversor saith, yet neither the Plant Lucerna, not so much as the name was known to us, till I mentioned it in my Letters to M. Hartlib, neither did ever any sow it in their fields, as the Ancient have done.   

Animadversor. Lupins known to all, etc.  
I grant that amongst our Gardiner's are divers sorts of Lupins, great and small with blue and yellow flowers; which as I suppose may differ as our Pease and Tares, and therefore require divers sorts of land; but I say that these Lupins are totally unknown to the Husbandman, and never used for that end, the ancient Romans used them, viz. to fertilise their land, as in Kent some use tares. In New-England I found the small blue Lupine growing naturally on a dry white sandy Plain, and therefore think that that sort is more natural for the end above mentioned, than the great Lupine, I hope in little time to experiment something in this kind.   

Animadversor. Grout is made of Barley or Oats, etc.  
I know that we have a great kind of Oatmeal, which we call Grots, but this Grout which I mean, is a small round thing, it cometh over to us in Holland ships, and I suppose it a kind of Millet or Panic, but wonder how it comes to Holland, because those Grains grow not there; but if it be made of Oats or Barley, the way to make it so round & small is unknown to us: I read in Parkinson of a kind of Rice sown in Germany, perhaps it may be of that kind; for I have found, as I suppose, some of the grains unhusked, which to me seemed to be like very small rice, I would willingly know the truth of this, whether I be mistaken or not.   

Animadversor. The two last sorts made only of Cow's milk.  
I suppose he meaneth Angelot's and Holland Cheeses, and that Parmisans are made of other milk than Cow's milk. If so, that Animadversor, I dare say, is mistaken; for I have enquired concerning Parmisans, even to Lodi in Milan, where the best are supposed to be made, and yet never heard any affirm that any milk besides Cow's milk was an Ingredient to them: and further all the Lands in those parts are very improper for sheep, the Country being a low flat Country, which they float three or four times every year, and by that means do mow as often; neither did I see any considerable flocks of sheep. As for Mare's milk that is improper for cheese, though many good Housewives in England think, that the strength and strong savour of Holland Cheese proceeds from hence, but as I have formerly touched, falsely: perhaps there are some in other places, who to excuse either their negligence or ignorance, report the same of Parmisans, but they are deceived: As concerning Angelot's and Parmisans, I must say (though I am unwilling to disparage our English Housewifery, further than is right) that to my apprehension the Angelot's of France, which are made in great abundance, are better far than our Chester Cheeses, and also our Banbury; as for our Chedder Cheeses which are made only in two or three parishes in their number so small that they are seldom seen, but at some Nobleman's table, or rich Vintners Sellars, that they are even nothing considering the great quantity of Cheese which is made in this Isle. Neither do I think they transcend the Parmesan or some Angelot's, but I leave this Controversy to every one's palate; that being very excellent to one, which is very little worth to another: and I can truly affirm, that it is a great deficiency even through the whole Isle, if these Cheddar Cheeses be so good that there are so few made, the Pastures in that Country not exceeding other Counties in England; nor breed of cattle better. Neither is the price of Angelot's at two Sous for half a pound, a vile price (as the Animadversor saith) considering the Cheeses are usually sold green; further I have seen some few Angelot's made in England after the French manner by some curious Ladies of transcendent goodness, according to mine and divers other palates; and I suppose, that other ordinary Housewives might make the same, if they knew the Art.  
Animad. The Animadversor seemeth to tax me, that I account the difference of Climates and of Soils the only causes, why some places produce such and such plants abundantly, other places not, (if I mistake him not) concerning which I shall briefly and plainly declare my mind: and do affirm that, I think, where the Climate is the same, and the temper of the Soil equal, in such places all plants will equally thrive, but if the Climates vary either in heat or cold moisture or dryness; or the Soil in fruitfulness, barrenness, or in moisture, dryness, or in stifness, lightness, sandyness, clayishness, or in such circumstantials, then is there also a variation in the well or ill thriving of plants: and further I suppose that whatsoever plants thrive in one hot Country, they will also thrive in another, if there concur the like moisture and soil (the same cultivation being supposed) this plainly appears in Oranges, Lemons, (which the Spaniards have planted through all the West-In●lyes) Olives, Vines, etc. And on the other side, what thriveth in one cold Country, (caeteris paribus) thrives in all others, as it appeareth in Norway, Poland, New-England, Russia, Newfoundland, where Firres, Pines, Pitch trees, etc. grow abundantly, and so what thrives in our temperate clime, thrives in all, as is manifestly seen in Apples, Pears, Cherries, Wheat, Barley, and almost in all Grains and Seeds in Botanic Gardens. And I can see no other cause worth the speaking of, but the aforementioned. Yet I grant that hot Countries have their peculiar plants, which will very hardly thrive in cold Countries, because of the nipping frost, yet the frost being rebated they will thrive well; and by this means I have seen six miles from London in Surrey Orange trees flourishing and growing even to the greatness of Trees in that kind in Italy, with ripe fruit continually on them, also with blossoms, etc. Likewise cold Countries have their peculiar fruits and plants, which cannot endure the scorching heat of the Sun, and therefore the Herb called Lanchitis, and others which grow abundantly in cold Countries, and in the Royal Garden at Paris, as difficulty preserved in Mompelier Garden, as Oranges, Olives, etc. are preserved in the cold Countries. 
De la Brosse.  As for occult proprieties of the earth, for Sympathyes and Antipathies, secret influences of Planets benign aspect, etc. I understand them not, but dare boldly affirm, if I have a convenient Clime, and a Soil correspondent to the nature of the Plant, to cause any plant to thrive and prosper; and this we see by experience, that if Rye, etc. be sown in a dry sandy ground, whether in Poland, England, New-England, which are many thousand miles distant, yet it will thrive and prosper, & sic de ceteris.— As for Astrology, to the which all in these days are too prone, even gardiner's and Husbandmen, will be talking of the dark of the Moon, and of the increase and decrease of the Solar and Lunar Eclipses; and accordingly dispose of their seasons, of times to their great damage; for I myself even by experience have found folly in these things, for things sown in the great Eclipses both of the Sun and Moon, have thriven as well as other things: in the decrease as well as in the increase, and therefore wish all men to sow their seeds when the season appointed is come, without such vain observations: For this Art for what I can perceive, is no way demonstrable à priori; for who can prove 12 Signs, Fiery, Watery, Domus Planetarum, Dignitates, etc. which are the main pillars of this Art: and à posteriori, by calculations it is made more uncertain, for though much is undertaken by divers, yet little is effected, many untruths for one truth, and little prognosticated, but what a prudent man without advising with the Stars may foresee. In brief, I will declare my rude thoughts, which perhaps will at length be found truths, for light breaketh forth a pace: In the beginning the wise Creator made two great Lights for the use of this Sphere of the World, the Sun, and Moon; the Sun to enlighten and to warm, and refresh all things, and to rule the day; the Moon to rule the night, and to be for the distinguishing of times and seasons; the Sun being the Centre imparts his light to the Earth and Moon, also to Venus and Mercury, (for they are found by the Selnescope to increase and decrease as the Moon doth) and also it is probable to Mars, and Jupiter, and Saturn, and scarce further; for the power of all created things are finite, as the Moon being nighest reflects its light on us, so its probable that the Earth illuminates the Moon. Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, have their Lunars or small Stars moving about them, which have lately been discovered (the Ancient knew not thereof) which its probable are for the distinguishing of times and seasons for the Inhabitants of those parts. Those which we call the fixed Stars are very great, many of which because of their great distance cannot be discovered but by the Glass called the Telescope, and therefore surely have little operation upon us who are in another Sphere, so far distant from them, and amongst these its probable some are Solar bodies, because of their twinkling, others terrestrial, which are replenished with creatures endued with life, by the fountain of life, which creatures do, as the creatures in this earth continually set forth the infinite Greatness, Glory, Mercy, and Goodness of the Creator; 
Cusan Hill. Brum.  and these words are even infinite, for the infinite Creator hath made an infinite Work worthy of so great a Workman, transcending the narrow capacity of frail man's intellect, and if things be thus, Astrology is vain, etc. but I wonder some will say, toto Coelo, but it's no matter: ad propositum.   

Animadversor. He is much mistaken if he think that those things reckoned up page 82. will prosper in England, especially Rice, Cork, Scarlet, Oak.  
I answer, Perhaps not much mistaken; things far improbable have succeeded; and again I aver that I believe they will, and shall believe so, till experience prove the contrary. And first for Rice, which first came from Babylon, and the East-Indyes, and is in those places their usual bread, where they have usually two or three Crops every year, yet we see it can condescend now to grow in the North parts of Italy in Lombardy; yea it hath stepped over the Mountains, and is come even as far as Tours, which is in the midst of France, where it growth and especially delighteth in moist morish grounds; also if may believe Parkinson a good and painful Botanic, either Rice, or some thing so like Rice, that he puts it in the same Chapter with it, grows in Germany, and therefore I question not but we in England might have one good Crop of this Grain in our Morish Land yearly; for the reasons that this will thrive with us, to me are more strong than that Coriander, Sweet-fennel, Caraway, Canary-grass, the Great-Cane, etc. will thrive, and yet these of late begin to flourish with us very well.  
Cork-tree. I very little question the growth of this. For first these trees grow abundantly in Biscay, a Country far colder than England, where the Summers also scarcely mature the grapes: Likewise they grow in the North of New-England at Parcato-way. Further that Tree is a great hardy bearing Acorns, and leaves like to an Oak, that one may easily be deceived by it, and mistake it for the common Oak.  
Scarlet Oak, I hope, I shall make it very probable, that even this also may flourish in our Isle: In Latin it is called Ilex, of which there are divers sorts. Some greater, some less, some more, some less beautiful: the greater sort which indeed beareth little of the Chermes groweth very well in England to a great Tree, and beareth Acorns, one of which I have seen at Whitehall-Gate.  
2. Master Parkinson reporteth that in New-England and Virginia, etc. The smaller Ilex (which is fruitful of Chermes, if it be cultivated) groweth naturally.  
3. This Scarlet Oak groweth not only in Languedock, and the hotter parts of France, but I have seen it also in Paris royal Garden grow without much art or industry.  
4. Divers Plants though at first they difficultly thrive, yet when they are habituated to the Country, and to cast their seed there, thrive well: Thus I have observed that Virginia Wheat at first difficultly thrived in New-England, but the seed that matured there the next year, flourished very well: the same I observed of Wheat brought from England, of water Melon seed brought from the Western Islands: the like I observe in Ireland of Oats and Barley sown before December, the Winter kills much, but what endureth and ripeneth, is hardened for the next Winter, and flourisheth, etc.  
5. There may perhaps other Species be found of this Scarlet Oak, more proper for our Climate, and I remember that on the barren plains in New-England I have seen growing even every where a small Oak, seldom above two foot high, yet laden with small Acorns, which are indifferent good to be eaten, and are the special food for the wild Turkeys in Winter, the leaves differ little from the common Oak but are smaller: some of these small Oaks being cut up nigh to a Dam made to turn a small river for the iron works, I perceived that out of the young twigs (which I never before perceived in the old branches) many excrescences did break forth, sticking close to the bark, flattish, reddish, set in order like buttons on a Doublet, the lower-most biggest, and so by little and little less and less, the bigger sort bigger than Vetches. These excrescences likewise grew on every twig double, one range opposite to another: I, in September when the leaves where fallen, for sooner I did not perceive them, gathered about a pint, hoping that this Oak might be of the same nature with the Scarlet Oak, though much differing in leaves: but my mishap. I lost my berries, and never since could obtain more: For these reason; therefore I believe, and I hope others will so far, as to endeavour by experience to find out whether the Scarlet Oak which is a considerable Plant, will thrive amongst us.   

Animadversor. I wonder Linden-trees, etc.  
Linden-trees are not mentioned as not growing in England, for I know that they grow in many places, and in Cobham Park in Kent they make the statelyest Walk I ever beheld, but Gentlemen only plant them for pleasure. Whereas in other places they make Basse Roap of the Bark, etc. which is no where done in England that I can hear of.   

6 Letter. Amber only found in Prussia.  
THis will upon strict enquiry be found otherwise, for many report Amber to be found also in considerable quantity in Pomerland. Cromer also in his description of Poland saith it is found in divers Lakes with them, especially at Piscia; also that in other places they usually dig it up; also Master Cambden an approved Author for England saith in his description of Norfolk; and also Jet and Amber, which (saith he) I willingly omit, seeing that there is great store of these things elsewhere along the Coast. Also that Jet or black Amber is cast up at Whitbey in Yorkshire: Further I have seen long pices of a yellow transparent Stone, or Amber found in a Fountain nigh Lake Neagh, about six miles from Antrims which the Irish say (though vainly) that it is found only there on May-day, and do use it superstitiously about divers things.   

Animadversor. Sea-Owse will not make Brick, etc.  
I have seen Sea-Owse or Mud do it at Dover; also in New-England, and it it a common practice, and if I am not misinformed that sort of Brick, which in London is called Flandersbrick much used, for scouring brass, etc. is made of the same Material.   

Animadversor. Salt out of a Sand, etc.  
Master Cambden reports it to be at Wyre-water in Lancashire, page 753. where you may read it more at large, and also the same Author reports that at Butterley in Durham, there are saltish stones which serve the people for their use, pag. 734.   

Animadversor. Not only the Odour, Taste, and Colour of Waters to be regarded, but other things of greater importance.  
I for my part know not how Countrymen should discern such transcendent virtues in waters, otherwise then by, these ways. I know ingeninus men may make separations by putrefactions, distillations, etc. And further I suppose that water is of itself most Homogeneus, (Let Faber speak what he please in his Flydrographo) and that all the differences betwixt waters is accidental: viz. by the mixture of some vapours, Fumes or Saline nature, which it receiveth by its long course throw divers Earth's, Clays, Sands, Salts, Minerals, Metals, Stones, etc. and further that this mixture is most commonly perceived by our senses, viz. by Colour, Taste, Odour, and would be much more perceived by us, if we did drink water continually. For the use of things of high taste, causeth us that we cannot distinguish things of lower gusts. For I have known some who could strangely distinguish waters by their taste; and further in England I know no water of any considerable virtue, but an ordinary palate may distinguish it from the common waters, and usually they are discoloured, and have some peculiar odour: As for the Mechanical uses of waters, why some are fit for Brewing, Washing, others not. I suppose the reason is plain enough, but that Flatters cannot make good Hats, because the water is not good enough for them: or the Dary-maid make good Butter or Cheese, etc. I think these are but excuses by the which they usually cloak their ignorance or knavery.   

Animadversor. I am sure that whosoever shall believe Glanberus, viz that in all sand almost Gold is found, etc.  
The Animadversor may think what he please, but I for my part (as I have formerly said) think Glanberus very ingenious, and a man of excellent experimental knowledge, and a man of excellent experimental knowledge, and therefore am easily induced to believe it, considering that Gold is not only found in the parched sands of Africa, India, etc. but it hath been also found in many Rivers of Europe, as Tagus, Po, etc. yea in Scotland, Gold is found amongst their sands in divers places, some of which I have seen, and know two ingenious men who intended to have set up a Mercury Mill (as they called it) for the separation thereof, had not the troubles of these times prevented: Golden sands are also found in Ireland in Ulster, if the Author of the Natural History of Ireland speak truth.   

Animadversor. Little fuel, save out of Ditches. Ditches an improper word.  
I suppose it not much improper, for I never saw either in England, Ireland, or elsewhere; fire as it were fished out of the water, I mean that any place is so saving of their Land, and so industrious in sowing their Graffs and Ditches to get fuel as in that Country, which I note rather as a point of good husbandry to be mistated then to be discommended, yet I cannot call Turf more than indifferent good fuel, and really must say, it is inferior both to Coal and Wood   

Animadversor. Durham-Wall, etc.  
It is misprinted for Durham-Walls, etc. These places being sufficient for my purpose, I know twenty places more may be added. The expression concerning Opium and Opiates; I suppose very little too large.   

Animadversor. Elephant's cannot be of use.  
Master Cambden saith in his Description of Essex that the Romans brought over Elephants to England, whose bones being found, have astonished many (perhaps the bone at Aldermanburic is one of them) also in our days an Elephant lived many years in England, therefore to me its probable they may be as serviceable to us, as to other places.   

Animadversor. An hard task to people with black Fox, etc.  
I suppose the Animadversor means to cause them to increase with us, but I think the contrary: for black Foxes are found in Ireland, New-England, Russia, and indeed in all cold Countries, therefore I see not why they should not multiply. Musk-Cats likewise divers have kept in London, and with good profit, etc.   

7 Letter. All Plants sublimed into Infects are not medicinable, etc.  
I Do not positively affirm it, yet I know it is the opinion of sonie not to be despised; further that some have very considerable medicinable virtues, it is well known, and I have instanced in divers, and I suppose that as yet it is altogether unknown whether others have or not.   

Animadversor. Rottenness of Sheep known in Ireland, etc.  
Rottenness of Sheep is some times in Spain, but not so much known as in England, though the Country be moister; the reasons now I well know, for they have not so many base wet Commons as in England, and the great Sheep-Masters usually choose their Sheeps-Walks, or Pastures, on high dry Lands, etc.   

Animadv. In Holland Cattle not housed in Summer, etc.  
Holland with us is usually taken for the 17 Provinces, or at least for the united ones, and that cattle are housed there as well as at Paris, you may read at large in Flanders husbandry, as also how they give their cattle Turnips, and that they mow their Meadows twice or thrice yearly, which the Animadversor denyeth. How the Hollanders do hoard up or bury grains, for that word is proper enough for any thing that is covered in the ground, the Animadversor largely describeth, and I hope it will be practised about London, where in the Summer time they are little worth.   

Animadversor. Hog's are not cleanly but love dort, etc.  
If Hogs love dirt, then why do they not wallow it in Winter as well as in Summer, but it is well known that in Winter hogs must lie warm and dry in clean straw, or they will not thrive, and why is it a greater disparagement to hogs in the Summer to lie in mire, that thereby they may cool themselves, take away their sweat, and destroy their louse by rubbing when the dirt is dry, then for other cattle to stand and wallow in muddy waters, or for Poultry to dust themselves? And further an Hog much abominateth his own dung, and therefore will never dung nor piss in his Sty, if the door be open, in which particular he excels even all creatures, and therefore the Paradox of the Hog's cleanliness may be found true.  
As concerning the extraordinary bigness of Goose livers, it is in Italy amongst the Jews, where I have eaten of them, highly esteemed, but at present not much in credit amongst the Italians, and to my Palate it is not so excellent a dainty.   

8. Letter. Animad. Purchase in his second Tome, sets down the making of Caviar, etc.  
I Am certain that Purchase himself, never saw the making of Caviar, nor the Merchant perhaps that wrote it, and therefore I must question the Process, and know that in New-England where there are abundance of Sturgeon, whose rows are ordinarily accounted the Material of it, yet never any ever so much as attempted to make it, though divers Fishmongers were there, and attempted to pickle Sturgeon, though with ill success; for in the ship in which I returned from New-England, many Scores of Cags of Sturgeon were sent to London, which were all naught, and cried about the Strees, under the notion of Holy Sturgeon: perhaps if Purchases way were known, it might encourage some to attempt the making of it. If I had Purchase by me, I would write it forth and publish it: at present his Works are rare and dear.  
The Animadversor doth very well describe the manner of feeding Cows with Turnips, p. 113. I hope our Gardiner's will take notice of it, and practise it, for it may be much for their profit, and for the advantage of many poor people.   

9 Letter.  
I Wish also that the breeding of Pheasants, as the Animadversor sets down were better known, for many poor might get good living thereby, as divers do in Bark-shire, and about London: I know also other Noble men, who keep many of these fowls; as also a poor man in Ireland, who hath a Pheasant, Cock, and Hen, which run amongst his Poultry, his Cock's tail of a very great length, which live very well, and lay eggs as other fowls without further trouble, and I question not, but others might be made tame also in England.   

10. Letter.  
COncerning Cheese I have already declared my mind: viz. that Parmisans and Angelot's which are commonly made in France and Italy, are far beyond our Chester, or what we commonly make in England.  
2. Our Cheddar Cheeses are seldom seen, unless at some Nobles man's table, etc. and yet I do not think they excel Parmisans; but whither my Palate be a true judge or not; I am sure it may be noted as a great deficiency that so little excellent Cheese is made with us, seeing so much is made elwhere. The cause of this deficiency the Animadversor referreth to the Water as appeareth by his examples. But I, and I suppose more truly to the good skill and clean handling of the Dairy Maid, and also to the difference of pastures; for that good or bad Housewifery maketh or marreth Cheese is very well known, as also that difference of pastures in respect of sweetness and sourness, much or little, fresh or stale, etc. causeth also great difference, not only in the quantity, but also in the quality of Butter and Cheese. But that the difference of water doth cause those alterations. I very much question, for I know that in Kent, whether the Cows drink puddle or pond-water, or clean spring, or fresh or brackish, (which in some place they oft do) yet the butter and Cheese are the same, if the Pastures be alike. But if Pastures vary, these vary, and so likewise I may say of the Housewife▪ I know a Farm within a mile of Gravesend, where the cattle always drink at one common pond in the Yard, if they graze on one side of the house, the Butter is yellow, sweet, and good, and Cheese also; but if on the other, the Butter is white, sowrish, and Cheese naught, and yet there is little difference in the pastures to a vulgar eye, which hath caused the good. Wife to report it as a wounderful strange thing, whereas the cause is manifest, for the one side hath much Trefoil, and lies on the Chalk; the other side is a gravel, and produceth usually Gramen, Caninum, or Couch-grass: so we find in sheep which drink not, yet both their wool and flesh vary very much in respect of pastures. And I suppose that if the pastures mentioned in Holland by the Animadversor, were well viewed by a judicious man, the like difference might be found, for as I suppose the Waters in Holland differ little, the Country lying for the most part in one even flatness without Minerals or Metals, the Country in Winter overflown with rain-water, in the Summer time most of their waters brackish: But if it be otherwise, I should be very glad to have some further light, and desire ingenious men not to build upon vulgar report, for I know they are apt to make Molchils Mountames, etc. in the Interim I shall acquiesce in my own opinion.   

Animadversor. England hath a perfect Systeme of Husbandry, viz. Markham.  
He speaketh more of Markham than ever I heard before, or as yet have seen. In general he is accounted little more than a Translator, unless about Cattle; and yet I cannot but in that question his skill: Considering how grossly he mistaketh the names of Plants: The works which I have seen of his are, first, the great book translated out of French, which whether well or ill done, I will not declare; but I am sure our Husbandmen in England profit little by it. Secondly, I have seen five several books bound up together, two or three of which he acknowledgeth to be another's, as The Improvement of the Wild of Kent, also his Housewifery he acknowledgeth to have had from a Countess, also part of his Farewell is borrowed, and what he owneth, if I have seen all, are very short in many particulars, as it will easily appear by my former discourse, and Blithe's book of Husbandry lately augmented and printed: Yea, if I understand any thing, he setteth down many gross untruths, which every Countryman will contradict, viz. That Flax is ripe after Hemp; That Corn steeped in Brine increaseth fivefold more than ordinarily; That Lupin must be steeped, when they were never sown in England: 
Farewell to Husb.  He wisheth Husbandmen to let long Grass grow amongst their Corn; for (saith he) it keepeth it warm: Fuller's earth as profitable as Marle: A sack, or a sack and a half of Rags for an Acre: Corn reaped in the wane nought: Hops not to be planted in too rich a ground: One Team in one day to plough in stiff land two Acres and a half, in light, four: Also one to man to mow two Acres of Grass in a day; to reap and bind five rood of Wheat; of Fetches and Pease two Acres: Also one man to dig rake and levelly one rood the day, etc. And such like which cannot be done: But I have said, and do confirm it again, that he hath done well in divers things, and is to be commanded for his industry.   

Animadversor. The Roman Law was only for sinning, etc.  
My expression doth not necessarily conclude that ill husbandry is Crimen Les● Majestatis, or Treason, but that the punishment was inflicted on them because the public received damage by their ill husbandry, being averse or contrary to the common good.   

Animadversor. Holy Land not barren, Royer.  
Our Sands reporteth it such, and so it is commonly voted; but whether through a peculiar curse of God, or for want of Cultivation, for we know that many hills would be very excellent for Vines and Olives, which notwithstanding are little worth for Corn or Pasture, etc. I will not here dispute.  
Concerning Fishponds, Angling, etc. I could wish we had a good Treatise in English: Vaughan was commended to me for them, but I have not read him, and therefore will not speak much for him, etc.  
Thus at length I have run over all, if any thing be impertinent, as I fear divers things are, I desire you to expunge it.   

An Observation concerning a Fish-Calender imparted from Zurich 11. Nou. 1654.  
There is an exact Fish-Calender printed in the Low-Country, but whether it be reprinted every year I cannot tell. I was enquiring here whether they had no such curiosity: One told me that there is a Catalogue extant of all the sorts of Fish ever taken in their Lake, or Sea, as they call it. When I asked whether their seasons were not added, he could not tell: But said, that in their Stat-house they have the twelve Months painted, and that under every Month are expressed in picture, without any names set by them, the several sorts of Fish fit to be then eaten. I have not since had leisure to go see those pictures. If any think this a needless, or an Epicurean Curiosity, let them read Doctor B●ates Natural History of Ireland; where he imputes the Irish Leprosy to their brutish eating of Salmon, when the very eye would have made them know they were unwholesome. But, saith he, the English having discovered it, did under a penalty forbid the selling or taking of Salmon at that time of the year: whereupon in a few years after, it was as rare to find a Leper in Ireland as in any other Country.   

A Copy of the Letter wherein the following Discourse entitled Mercurius Laetisicans was sent enclosed to Mr. Samuel Hartlib.  
SIR,  
YOur cordial love to the kingdoms good being so clearly expressed to the world, not only by your pen, but also by your constant practice in promoting of all good designs which tend to the general good of the Commonwealth, hath emboldened me to send you this enclosed Copy, desiring that you will be pleased to take care that it may be forthwith printed and published, together with this Letter: Neither need you fear any dishonour by promoting of this laudable design: for I have showed the Copy to the Learned as well as the unlearned, to the rich as well as the poor, and all approve of it, and desire to have it as soon as it shall be published: They think it is a fine experiment to make good bread of an old shoe: And though they differ in opinion concerning other affairs, yet they all love to eat bread with one consent; and if they shall agree to practise according to their profession, which is to do their best endeavours to further the good of the public, then certainly the cards will turn, and we shall win our money again by concord, which we have lost by discord, yea and twice as much more. And though many of these things which I would have to be put to the best uses, seem to be trivial, that is for want of understanding in the Readers; for in Genoa as I have been credibly informed, it is an usual practice to buy barren land for little or nothing, and to carry good earth to it, and cover it so deep, as a spade or a plough may work upon it; but this practice would never counter veil the first charge, unless they did usually practise another strange work, which is so common there, that if an horse or a beast do dung in any street, or highway, it is a marvel if some boy or girl do not take it up, before it he cold, so careful are they that the fertility of the Kingdom should not be diminished: And though these boys and girls get nothing but sins and points, or some other trifles, yet in the general the whole Country is made rich and plentiful: Even as we see in a Beehive, though every Bee bring but a drop of honey at a time, yet it maketh up a weighty mass, and many of those masses put together do make up the great mass, which I have seen at Sturbridge Fair, which is able to amaze a man that beholdeth it.  
When this Book is published, than I desire you to think of the best way you can possibly imagine, that all the Inhabitants of the whole kingdom may have knowledge of it generally; for knowledge that concerneth the public good, ought not to be concealed in the breasts of a few. As for the large Book to which this little one hath relation, there is no thinking of publishing of it, till we have obtained a Committee to examine witnesses, and to print their Depositions in it; for Projectors have cast so many bitter things into the public Fountain, whereof all have drunk, and their minds are so poisoned, that that there is no other way to unpoyson them, but to win their belief and willingness to practise, but such depositions of Gentlemen of quality, which know, the same as well as I myself, and some of them have taught me, and I have taught others several Secrets, and some few I know myself still, and no man else in the Kingdom, for aught that can be proved; all which reserved Knowledge in particular breasts, is against the Wealth of the Public, and therefore aught to be made common to all, or else this Design cannot prosper, nor the Kingdom flourish according to my desire. As for your particular Encouragement I need say no more, but that by furthering of this friendly Advertisement, and the perfecting of the Books to which it belongeth, you shall become a Further of the most Charitable Design that is now on foot in England, besides the great and manifold Benefit that shall redound thereby to the Commonwealth: For I dare undertake that by the right Improvement of the several Directions and Experiments that shall be discovered, you shall undoubtedly cause more naked to be clothed, more hungry to be fed, more poor Virgins to be preferred in marriage, than Suttons hospital, the Savoy, or all the Hospitals, or Liberal Gifts in England have ever performed. So I rest,  
Westminster this 14, of May. 1644. Your Bounden Servant, Gabriel Plattes.   

Mercurius Laetisicans.  
WHen I perused the several Mercury's which go abroad, to wit, Mercurius Civicus, Merc. Aulicus, Merc. Britanicus, Merc. Coelicus, Merc. Veridicus, Merc. Vapulans, etc. I was sorry that so much Wit, Labour, and Study should be so slighted, and produce no better effect; for I have seen them before they were a week old to be carelessly hurled up and down, and sometimes torn in pieces to light Tobacco, and other uses not sit to be named. Whereupon I resolved to try a Conclusion, to write a Mercury that no man should so abuse, but he that is an enemy to himself and to the Commonwealth. And therefore I have ordered the matter so, that no man in the Kingdom, which hath so much learning as to read it, or so much understanding as to hear it read with attention, but he may learn to gain a thousand times the price of it to himself, besides the general good to the Public. But before I tell my Readers what lasting and particular Benefit they are to expect, if they will follow those Directions which shall be given them by the following Discourse: Let all men that love themselves, or ●he Commonwealth, and Posterity, take special notice of a certain Book of Husbandry, entitled, The Treasure Ho●se of Nature unlocked, and s●t wide open to the world, etc. where they may plainly see, that as God is infinite, and men are infinite by propagation, so the fruits of the Earth for their food, and clothing are infinite, if men will consent to put to their helping hands to this commendable Design.  
The sum of the Book consisteth in showing how this Kingdom may maintain double the number of people which it doth now, and in far greater plenty: Containing many rare Secrets for the Wealth of Men, and such as will seem so strange, and incredible to most men, that they will be likely to slight it, to the great prejudice of the Commonwealth.  
Whereupon I am resolved to wait the Lord of Heaven and Earth's leisure, till such time as he shall be graciously pleased to afford so much leisure to the high and honourable Court of Parliament to hear such Witnesses as I shall produce, to the end that the Depositions being printed in the same Book, every Subject in the Kingdom, as well in great Cities and Towns Corporate, as in the Country may be satisfied concerning the truth thereof, and so be more apt to yield unanimous consent, which is all that is wanting for the full accomplishment of this laudable work.  
And I wish no man to think that this is a device to exhaust his purse; for the truth is, I wrote the same for no other cause, but because I saw that all those Books which were formerly written upon this subject, were written by men which had not attained to any considerable Perfection in the Knowledge of Nature, and such as had but a glimmering light of such great Secrets, as Nature hath heretofore locked up in her Storehouse, and so were ignorant in the fundamental points and causes of Vegetation and Multiplication. Whereupon I concluded that the Teachers and the Teached were nothing else but the blind leading of the blind, by which we all fell into the ditch: I mean, we lived in want and misery, when we might might more easily have lived in plenty and prosperity.  
As for the particular way whereby this wonderful Improvement may be brought to pass, here is no room in these few leaves: therefore I will only show how every one in the Kingdom, as well in great Cities as in the Country Towns may be an helper in this happy work, and raise some considerable gain to himself, and that great Cities which in former times devoured the fatness of the whole Kingdom, may yield a considerable retribution yearly without any man's prejudice, so that that fertility of the Country needs not be so much diminished as in former times.  
And therefore every one is desired to take this one thing into consideration, that as any parcel of good land, being kept in Pasture, and having the dung which it breedeth spent upon it, doth continue fertile for ever, without any other addition, so the excrements and materials which any family produceth being well contrived, will produce yearly as much bread and drink as that family spendeth for ever.  
But the better to stir up all poor maidservants to put their helping hand, let them be pleased to understand, that I taught a poor woman to get three pounds a year, which she hath continued many years without any considerable labour, or neglecting her other occasions, and thus she practised.  
When she washed, and swept rooms at her neighbour's houses, instead of casting many materials to the common dunghill, she took them home with her at night, and laid them in a corner, and once a year she sold them for above three pound. Besides she laid aside every year as many linen rags as yielded her forty shillings, and her labour, in receiving her five pounds from the Bargeman, or thereabout every year, was a most as much as all her other labour, I mean extraordinary labour.  
If young poor Maidservants will imitate her industry, I will tell them the whole Secret, to the intent that besides the benefit to the public, every one may get herself a considerable portion; and to the end that many may be industrious in this laudable way, and that many thousands may remember me in their good wishes, I will first speak a good word for them to all generations to come, to wit, that such an one, which by her wit, industry, and providence getteth herself a portion of twenty or forty pounds (which she may easily do in a certain number of years, not very many) deserveth as good a marriage as one that hath an hundred pounds given her by her parents and friends.  
And to the end that this may not seem to be a ridiculous relation, I will show the reasons of it, and also the experience, and lastly declare the several materials which I taught her to reserve.  
As for the reasons, they are thus discovered, viz. the vegetable spirit of the world, by which all things do increase and multiply, is sometimes clothed with a gross and earthly foeculencie, as in dung, and more in some dung than in other: sometimes it is more purified from its earthly foeculency, and then it is far more effectual, as we see by experience in London, that a load of shave of horn is sold for shillings, or three pound a load, woollen rags is sold for thirty or forty shillings, when as a load of common dung is sold for a penny, and many times for nothing but carriage away.  
Now I proceed to declare the several materials which I taught her to reserve: As for the linen rags, she reserved those before I knew her, and sold them yearly to the Paper-Mils; and I seeing her industry, thought it a good deed to advise her to reserve all the shreads and rags of woollen cloth as well old as new, all the shreads and pieces of leather of all kinds as well old as new; all the horns and hoofs of beasts of beasts of all kinds, whether shaved or not, that came in her way; all the hair either in Barber's shops or Tanner's yards, or at the houses of Butchers and Cooks, where they scaled many hogs and pigs, and fond cast away the hair; and to take up all the old shoes and pieces of leather which happened in her way, as she went about her ordinary occasions, and to work as often as she could, at the houses of Tailors, Shoemakers, Saddlers, etc.  
For I have found by experience, that a load of the best common dung will not produce corn worth above twenty shillings at three crops, unless corn be very dear, and if it be far carried, than the labour, rent, and seed, will consume the gains, whereas a load of any of these materials formerly mentioned, will produce Wheat and other corn worth above ten pound, though the price be reasonable.  
These things being well considered, there is a great reason why these materials should not be fond cast away to the common dunghill in great Cities, or other places, whereas the greatest part thereof is utterly lost; and though some of them go to the dunghill, yet they serve only to enrich land which lieth near to great Cities, where there is no need of them, whereas being reserved by themselves, they will quit the cost to be carried twenty or thirty miles, and so make land fertile, which beareth not half the quantity for want of dung.  
And whereas I have found by experience, that a load of any manner of seeds whatsoever, doth contain as much of the vegetable spirit of the world, as ten loads of common dung, I could wish, that all such young man-servants, as have no Stocks nor Trades, should get them services in great Inns, or to be Bailiffs of Husbandry to great men, and to reserve all the hay seeds that come within their reach, and all the soot that is swept down out of the chimneys, that they can get, and once in a year to get so much blood at any Butchers, or Poulterer's houses as will make them into a paste, and then to add so much Cowdung dried to them, as being tempered with urine, will be sufficient to make the whole mass apt to be form into the form of bricks, loaves, or cheeses, and then they are to be laid up in a dry place till they be throughly rotten, and that a small quantity thereof being made into powder will not produce any thing suddenly, being spread in a garden or other open place where the rain may fall upon it, without the help of new seed, and then though their common dung will yield no price at all in that place, but rather they are forced to pay money to have it carried away, yet this will give them a large price, after that the virtue thereof is known.  
And if any such man-servants have means to farm certain Acres of barren land, which lieth so remote from dung, that the annual rent thereof is little, then by setting of Wheat, or other Grain, by my directions in my book formerly mentioned, they may make one quarter, or one pounds worth of corn, to yield forty quarters, or forty pounds worth of corn in less time than one year, and as much over and above as shall pay all charges and workmen nobly, and also as much rent as any ordinary Farmer can afford to give yearly for it, by which means he may in a few years get a considerable Stock, and be as likely to thrive as he that hath twice so much given him by his parents or friends. And I could wish all such men to marry with such women as by their wit, industry, and providence have gotten themselves portions by my directions in this l●ttle Book; and let others which have portions given do the like, and try conclusions whether of them thriveth better.  
If ●ny one should be seen to cast away good bread, when so many poor people want it, than all the world would cry shame upon him; but why should not the casting away of any of these materials fond be reputed a more heinous sin, when as they will produce divers times their weight of as good bread as any Prince eateth.  
I have seen by experience that Salt-peter is the most rich compost in the world to multiply Corn, and I have seen fifty pounds worth of Saltpetre extracted out of a vault at Dowgate, not very spacious, which was formerly an house of office, and not emptied till the matter was throughly rotten, why may not the same thing be done by Art which was formerly done by Nature and Accident? I have been credibly informed, that such a work is ordinarily done in the Kingdom of China, and also at the City of Paris in France, and I see no reason why English men should not have as much wit they.  
If any man hath convenient room to build two houses of office, and to close up the one whilst he useth the other, then there can be no question, but that instead of the charge of emptying, and noisomeness of the smell, he may have it emptied for nothing, and feel the sweet smell of money very grateful to most men, and that in as great quantity, or greater than he receiveth for his ordinary Edifices: besides that he will show himself to be a good member of the body politic or Commonwealth wherein he liveth; but he must beware, that the matter do lie dry, and that no adventitious moisture come to it either from beneath or above, which will be somewhat more chargeable in moist grounds, then where the earth is very dry by its own nature.  
And whereas it is as clear as the Sun, that the flesh and blood of a beast is five times as good as the dung of a beast, and that the skin, hair, wool, horns, and hoofs are ten times as good as the dung; and that these things are at the least the third part of the fertility and wealth of the Kingdom, and that these things are for the most part lost and cast away for want of general knowledge: I could wish that every Housholder in the Kingdom would make use of this Book, and let it be common for all his family to read, or hear it read, to the end that some considerable quantity thereof might be preserved, the soot in every one's chimney will pay him again; for a Bushel of soot will produce two Bushels of wheat, if it be well ordered, because it aboundeth much with the vegetable spirit of the world, by which all sublunary things do increase and multiply.  
And whereas there is much food of all kind spoilt for want of looking as musty Corn, mouldy Cheese, stinking Flesh and Fish; also if any man have any Horses or beasts that die by accident, let all men be pleased to receive instructions in the said book formerly mentioned, how to recover some considerable share of their losses; and if any one cannot find out some way or other to benefit himself more or less by the reading of the said book, besides the good to the public, let him lay the blame no where else but upon the weakness of his own understanding; for it will be proved against him that some have advanced their revenues above a thousand pounds per annum, by some small part of the skill contained in the said book. And if every poor servant cannot get themselves portions of considerable value, by reason that their Master's houses afford not store of such materials, nor spare room to lay them in, then let them get five shillings a year, that they may do in the poorest house in the kingdom, yea the poorest beggars that go from door to door, may get more than that, so shall they get themselves every year a suit of clothes, if they buy them at the second hand, and show their love to the Commonwealth; and perhaps some good minded man, seeing their industry, may disburse money for the accomplishing of one crop, and take it again with interest, or without interest, out of the first part that is sold, and so will the remainder afford them a considerable portion. And though that waste paper of all sorts, either white or brown, written or printed be not very good to make barren land fertile, yet it will make good Passeboard, the white is worth three farthings a pound, and the other an half penny a pound to make brown Passeboard, good to cover Books, and all other things where the colour is hidden in the work, and therefore worthy to be reserved, for in some houses it is of very considerable value.  
And let all men be pleased to take into serious consideration, that as in every century of years there do more people die than are in the World at any one time, so in every century of years there is more Wealth lost fond for want of knowledge in England, in the complete Art of Agriculture, then is in the Kingdom at any one time, yea though an Inventory were taken and valued at Michaelmass, when the whole years' fruits are engrossed together, which sum will double throughout the whole Kingdom (especially in the Country) to the like Inventory taken at May day, when the years fruit are almost wasted, and little remaining but hopes, which are not usually put into Inventories.  
Whereas it will plainly appear to all rational men, that I wish well to all in general, let them be pleased to accept of one friendly advertisement more: Christ saith, He that is not with me, is against me, admitting of no neutrality, and I say, that whosoever doth not according to his ability, and opportunity, further this blessed work, more or less, liveth in a destructive way to the Commonwealth, or body politic, whereof he is a member, though an unworthy one.   

A Letter of an experienced Husbandman, who hath also brought the Invention of setting of Corn to greater perfection, expressing his judgement upon the following Notes, Observations, Experiences and Improvements.  
SIR,  
YOu have often favoured and honoured me with the like favour of allowing we the perusal of many choice pieces, and that particularly of Mr. Gabriel Plat's, some printed, and some (as this) in Manuscript: All which I profess to have liked me very well, and none (that related to any the parts of Husbandry) so well as Mr. Plat's, but I must also confess, that if this little piece I herewith return you (and with it abundance of hearty thanks for the reading of it) be not the best clearly of all I have seen of his yet, it at least comes nothing short of the best, some mistakes in the computations in the beginning bated. Certainly that man had as excellent a genius that way as any that ever lived in this Nation before him; and was a most faithful seeker of his most ingrateful Countries good. I never think of the great judgement, pure zeal, and faithful intention of that man, and withal of his strange sufferings, and manner of death, but I am struck with amazement that such a man should be suffered to fall down dead in the streets for want of food, whose studies tended to no less than the providing and preserving food for whole Nations, and that too as with much Skill and Industry, so without Pride or Arrogancy towards God or man.  
Sir, I can give you no other or better account, but constant praises: Only this I say, that whereas I suppose Mr. Plat's invention for Setting was far better than any thing that preceded; yet since it is lost, and was not so very perfect neither, as you: know hath been since invented, the world may be supplied, by this, that is, as to action, being satisfied by Mr. Plat's Reasons, why it is necessary to have such an expeditious way, which as it is really invented, so will it be (in due time) divulged. In the mean time, and ever, I rest  
The humblest of your obliged Servants, C.D.   

Certain Notes, and Observations concerning Setting of Corn, and the great benefit thereof.  
Together with several Experiments and Improvements, imparted by Gabriel Plaits to Mr. Hartlib.  
FOur hundred grains of chosen Wheat, do weigh three quarters of an ounce, which is three ounces for a perch; and so a hundred and sixty perches must have four hundred and eighty ounces, which is in weight thirty pound, and in measure half a bushel and two pints.  
If this half bushel being set upon an Acre shall enrease but an hundred for one, which is the least increase of set Corn that ever was known, then there will be about 11 quarters upon that Acre.  
And that several sorts of Wheat do differ at least 11. pound in a bushel in weight, and also in the number of grains, so that it is impossible to make this account absolutely, and exactly perfect.  
But yet it appeareth clear, that there is above fourscore pounds in the two hundred pounds saved in the seed Corn in setting, more than by sowing the common way; and also that there is above fourscore pounds in the hundred pound saved in workmen's wages, by this new device of setting: and also it shall appear, that there is above fourscore pounds in the hundred pound saved in the Compost, by dispersing it by my new Invention, in such manner that it shall all lie within the attractive virtue of the seed Corn.  
Also it shall appear, that the Corn upon every Acre, being set by my direction, shall yield a full third part increase more than if it were sown the common way; which said third part shall bear all the charges whatsoever, both rent and other expenses; so that by this new way of Husbandry, there will be as much Corn gained clear upon every Acre of ground in England, as formerly the said land did yield one year with another.  
The seed wheat for the setting of an acre is worth half a crown, at five shillings a bushel; the workmen's wages for setting is six shillings; the compost costeth little more than the ordinary charges of spreading the dung by the ordinary way of ploughing, etc.  
Also it appeareth clear, that the gains of one Acre will do a great deal more than to pay for the several Engines; which notwithstanding being well trimmed will endure, and be serviceable for the space of an hundred years.  
And if any man doubt of it, let him cast up the charges of my work more punctually; and also the charges of the common way, and he shall find that there is more clear gains by my way by ten Acres, then by thirty done the common way, in which account I will not be my own carver, but will refer myself to the account in a little book which I met withal lately though it was printed Anno Dom. 1601. when setting of Wheat was in great practice; but afterwards when the price of Wheat grew cheap, and Labourers wages grew dear, the practice ceased, for want of an expeditious way.   

A comparison between Ploughing and Sowing of three Acrees of Land after the old fashion, and Ploughing and Setting of one Acre after the manner declared in the book printed Anno Dom. 1601. by Mr. Maxey, Gentleman, a great practizer in those days in the art of setting of Corn.  
And first for the charge.  
The Rent of three Acrees in most places is worth some five shillings an acre; the land according to the use of the Common fields, doth lie fumer fallow the first year, and beareth Corn the other, so the Farmer payeth the years rend before he hath his crop, which rent cometh to thirty shillings.  
The ploughing of these, if it be well done, and as most grounds require, every Acre four times, which is twelve plowings; at two shillings every time cometh to four and twenty shillings; the dunging of these three acres with some twelve or fourteen loads upon every Acre, and is for three acres some forty loads at six pence a load spread upon the land, amounteth to twenty shillings.  
The seed that will sow it is usually two bushels and an half of Wheat or Rye for every acre, which is a eleven bushels and an half, at four shillings the bushel, cometh to thirty shillings.  
The Weeding and Reaping, and other charges in two years, though uncertain, yet for example, ten shillings; thus two years rend and charges cometh to five pound fourteen shillings.  
The usual increase in the common fields, barren lands, have so little help with dung, is but two quarters upon an acre, but allow twenty bushels to stop a wranglers mouth, which is for three acres seven quarters and a half, rated at four shillings a bushel, thirty two shillings the quarter cometh to twelve pound, out of which if you take the charge aforesaid, there remaineth to the Farmer for his stock six pound six shillings; and so for every one of those acres allowing so good increase, and so good a price, the profit two and forty shillings.  
And you shall understand, that notwithstanding their accounts and mine own, of seven or eight quarters upon an Acre, and also of Sir Hugh Plaits account of fifteen, twenty, five and twenty, or thirty quarters upon an acre, yet all these accounts may be true; for you may learn by my book so to fertilise your land, that it may bring thirty quarters upon an acre, in such years when the Months of May, June, and July prove exceeding hot and dry, which I would advise no man to trust to, in regard that these three Months scarce prove so once in a eleven years, in these Insulary Countries which are subject greatly to the change of weather; and if these Months prove moist and rainy, than all ground that is so mightily enriched, will be spoilt with rankness, and therefore the safest way is to order your Compost so that an Acre may bear 11. quarters one year with another.  
And though I have known that an Acre of Barley hath ●orr by accident thirty quarters, and that the same thirty quarters were worth the same year threescore pounds, yet the adventure was so dangerous, that I would advise no man to attempt the like.  
And thus a friend of mine proceeded, viz. he ploughed up at Michaelmass twenty Acres of very fertile and rank green sword ground, and afterward cross ploughed it, and harrowed it three or four times to kill the grass, and also to mingle the fat earth with the lean, than he sowed it about the beginning of March with Barley before the vehement drought came had covered the ground so full, that it was as if it were even turfed with the Corn, so that afterwards the violent heat and drought which spoiled the thin and barren Corn in the Common fields did cause this Corn to have but a short straw, yet the rich earth put forth a large ear, and very exceeding thick, and also the corn was plump and round, which had the weather happened to be moist and rainy, then there would have been almost nothing but straw, but so it came to pass that he had thirty quarters upon every Acre, which was upon the twenty Acres six hundred quarters, and by reason of the failing of Corn in the Common fields he sold it for forty shillings a quarter, which came to twelve hundred pounds with the rent and all, so that he gained above a thousand pound clear by his twenty Acres of Barley: Yet I would wish no man to take in hand so hazardous a work again, but rather to 2aim at a mean in fertilizing of his land, which is the surest way one year with another; for if he make his land too extreme fertile, than it is ten to one he shall have nothing but straw, and some light corn, which is good for little use, but only for Poultry; and if on the other side he take so much are able land, that he is not able to enrich it so that every Acre may bear in a reasonable year five quarters by sowing the common way, or thereabouts, and a eleven quarters and a half, or thereabouts, by setting, then let him cast up his accounts justly, and he shall find himself to be no good friend to himself, nor yet to the Commonwealth, for he might have gained more by laying his Compost upon half so much land, and by setting it orderly, than by the whole, so that he himself and the Commonwealth is deprived of that benefit of the herbage of that land which he did unadvisedly and above his ability to enrich, keep in tillage to his own loss and great damage.   

Certain Experiments and Improvements for the enriching of Land, by my new Invention or Engine, which disperseth the Compost in such manner, that it falleth all within the reach of the attractive virtue of the Corn.  

The first Experiment or Improvement.  
It is found by experience, that where dung hath been laid upon heaps upon fallowed land, and hath lain unspread for a month or six weeks, and withal some store of rain hath fallen to carry down the Chilus or juice of the dung into the earth there, though the dung was all removed in the spreading from the place where the heap lay, yet there grew more corn in a yard square of that ground so fattened with the chilus or juice of the dung than in three yards square, where the dung was dispersed in the rest of the land.  
By this we may observe that Dung doth not enrich ground till it be putrified and turned into chilus, or aqua pinguis, or aqua viscosa, and also that Compost of land whatsoever is to be turned into such a nature and property before it can produce great increase in the present crop.  
Wherefore the best Husbandry is to prepare Earth and Compost in such manner, that the nutritive virtue thereof may assimilated into the corn and fruits in the first year, or else the Husbandman layeth out his stock and charges long before hand, and is deprived of great part of the benefit thereof, by reason that the rain and land-flouds do carry away a great share of the chilus or juice of such dung as falleth out of the reach of the attractive virtue of the seed or plant; and if any man doubt of it, let him fill all the holes (when he hath set an Acre of Corn) with such fat earth, and he shall find his increase doubled upon common barren field land; and chose, let him fill the holes with common dung, and he shall find no such success.  
But some will say that this is a peddling business, and an endless work; to which I answer, That so it is indeed, to those which know not the use of my new Invention, or Engine, but that being known, is the most profitablest work in the world, for a man may fill 400. holes in the twinkling of an eye, and may order a whole Acre in like manner, with a very little charges more than the spreading of the dung doth usually cost. Therefore now I will proceed to show how divers fertile earths may be prepared wherewith the holes may be filled, and so consequently the increase may be doubled, and this practice will be excellent in such places where the charge of carriage costeth much, by reason of the great distance of the place from the Compost; for I find, that though divers imbibitions of the seed with apt liquors do produce a good improvement, yet it is not a practice comparable to this; for if a Farmer have twenty acres of Arable land, and have dung but for fifteen Acres, and shall yet have a good crop, by means of a good imbbiition, yet is not this knowledge sufficient for a Husbandman, upon whose skill the happiness of himself, and the whole Commonwealth dependeth: For by this way he may enrich his Arable land at pleasure, be it never so barren, nor never so much remote from his Compost; for on the one side, if the filling of the holes be not sufficient, he may heap them, as hops are usually heaped, with fertile earth and dung; and on the other side, if the earth be too rich, so that it will make the Corn too rank, than he may half fill the holes, or less and then fill them up with a Rake with their own proper earth, or he may make his earth so rich, that he may mingle with it twice the quantity of the field earth before he disperse it; by which means he may save a great deal in the charge of the carriage of his Compost where the fields are far distant.   

The second Experiment or Improvement, wherein is showed how a rich Compost may be made in form of earth fit to fill up the holes when the Corn is set.  
Let an Acre, or more, or less of good Arable earth, neither clay nor sand, but indifferently well mixed, be chosen in some apt place, where dung is plentiful and cheap, then cover it with dung a foot thick, or thereabouts, and then you may be at choice whether you will at six Month's end shovel off all the dung, and carry the fat earth to be used as in the former Experiment, or else to plough it four or five times, all together in a years space, and then carry all to be used as in the former Experiment; either of these ways will serve; for one Acre of earth thus made fertile, will make an hundred Acres fertile, and to yield a good crop, yea even as you desire: so you may fertilise by the means prescribed in the first Experiment; and this same work may be done in a little garden plot, in Cities, Corporations, or Villages, where a bed of good earth may be enriched at pleasure, with all liquors thrown upon it, which contain any fatness or saltness, as urine, beef-broth, soapsuds, blood, brine of powdering tubs, kitchin-wash, fish-water, lees of all wine, bear, perrey, cider, or whatsoever is good for hogs, the same will yield an excellent virtue to this earth, and if a cover were set over it to keep it dry for a years space, you might enrich it so, that you might carry it twenty miles, and yet find more gains by it than by a common dung that lieth but a mile off, and any Husbandman that dwelleth within a few miles of any City, make a rich benefit by bringing certain loads of Arable earth yearly into Cities, and by giving a bushel or two of wheat to certain Householders of his acquaintance, for the enriching of it as aforesaid.   

The third Experiment, or Improvement, where is showed how a rich Compost may be made in form of earth, near to the Sea, which may be carried many miles.  
You must understand that this Compost is profitable only for such ground where bay-salt is apt to cause fructification, or sea-sand, as in divers places in Cornwall, where they carry it on horse back divers miles, and find that it maketh a very excellent Improvement: Well, thus may you work, and make as rich a Compost as any can be in the world for ground of that nature, Let a place be chosen where there is an Acre of kindly earth, where it may be floated at every springtide, and afterward the water dried away by the heat of the Sun, and then ploughed and served so many times, till it be as fertile as you please.  
The like may be done by watering the earth with sea-water, and by ploughing it with scoops all summer, or till it be as fertile as you please; and in some parts of England the sea water may be let into the land many miles, for the purpose aforesaid.  
The like may be done by mingling earth with Malt dust, Pigeons dung, or any other Compost, which is found to do much good with a small quantity, as Malt and other Corn spoilt by any accident, may be ground into Meal, and mingled with earth, or putrified with the earth, a whole year unground, till it be turned into earth. Also Lime and dung, or combustible earth mixed together, or all three ploughed divers times, for a year, till they be turned into earth, is a rich Compost.  
If you can find out the true adaptation of this, and of all my other Composts, than you may save fourscore pounds in the hundred pounds in the fertilizing of any Arable land in England, and also you may afford to carry your Compost to places and barren grounds far distant, which now admit of no improvement within charge, by reason of their great distance of place.  
And if the distance be very far, than you may try with Bay-salt, Saltpetre, Soap dissolved in hot water, or any other substance which enricheth Arable land exceedingly; and when you have hit the mark, than you may bring these substances twenty, thirty, or forty miles, and yet you fertilise your Arable land by my new Invention cheaper than with common dung, though it were to be had within a mile of the place, if you every the earth with these Liquors or Salts dissolved, and so make use of my Engine for the filling of the holes when the Corn is set.   

The fourth Experimene or Improvement, wherein is showed how a rich Compost may be made in form of earth for the purpose aforesaid, which may also be converted into Salt-peter.  
It is found by experience, that where the Saltpetre men do find an old house of Office in a dry vault, where no moisture doth annoy it, there they get their best Liquors. Also it is found by experience, that Horse-dung, being putrified, and turned into earth in a dry place, doth likewise yield much Saltpetre: Also it is found by good experience, that Clay walls, made of some kind of Clay, do yield great store of Saltpetre, which may be seen in Oxford-shire and divers other places, where Pigeons resort to the clay walls, and thereby give intelligence to the Saltpetre men to steep the same, who many times find the liquors so rich, that they will steep many pearches in length of such walls, though they make up the walls again at their own charges, according to the Law.  
By all these Experiments joined together, it seemeth that a rich Compost either for Land, or for Saltpetre may be made as followeth.  
First let an little frame of an house about four foot high be framed in every man's backside, as well in Cities as Country Towns, and let there be nothing but studs, and those very thin, and let it be length and bigness of a S●wpit, or grave, or greater, or lesser at pleasure.  
Then build a little house of Office over it, which be broader than it, to keep it from rain and moisture. Then make up the walls about a foot thick, with this composition of earth following, and in less than a eleven years, all the walls and ordure will yield either good store of Saltpetre, or a rich earth for Compost worth twenty shillings a load at the least for the fertilizing of land: If every household have two of these houses, he shall never have more trouble but to make use of one while the other doth ripen.  
The walls must be made of horse dung, and so much clay as will temper it, and the less the better, so that it will hold together. The Clay must not be of the nature of Brewer's clay, I mean such as will stop water, of the Mawmy clay in Oxfordshire, and many other places, which is partly of the nature of Marle, and will break itself, which lying abroad in winter like unto Marle, or Lime, whereby it is discovered to contain much salt in its composition, which if it be well chosen: will wonderfully add to the richness of the earth, when it is putrified fox both uses, to wit, for Compost or Saltpetre at pleasure.  
If this work were well put into practice, the very ordure of every family might be so improved by my new invention, that it would produce as much Corn again as was spent in the said house in the former years; besides that barren land, and far distant from other Compost, might this way be made fertile.  
And for the poorer sort, whom the charge may be made considerable for the building of the houses, they may lay a load or two of good earth, like a bed in a garden, and cover it from rain, and with a movable stool or seat make this earth as rich as the other.  
But in all works where Saltpetre is expected, you must make a little ditch about the earth which shall produce it, or else the least moisture will draw away the Saltpetre, even as the Saltpetre men do with their Tubs. And if any man would take in hand to build such houses of Office, in, or near to any Marketplace, School College, or other place where there is a great confluence of people, he might gain sound by it, and also do a pleasure to the Commonwealth. And let no man doubt of this relation, for if the Compost be apt for the land and seed, it is marvellous to see the increase thereof: I had the last summer 18. for one upon a trial, which I made with Beer Barley, which do call Barley, which some do call Barley big; it hath four square ears, and I did nothing to it, but steeped in blood for one night, and then set it at a eleven inches depth, and six inches distance, and it yielded more than twice as much as other Corn of the same kind, being not steeped at all in any thing, and being set at the same depth and distance, and in the same ground, on purpose to see the difference.   

The fifth Experiment or Improvement, wherein is showed how the difference of the nature of land may be found out, thereby to fit it with an apt Compost.  
It is found by experience, that where vegetables dumb, as Ferne, Whinnes, Broom, and the like, have long grown, and died upon the ground, and have continued in this course of husbandry, or rather ill husbandry for many years, there the earth doth abound with the vegetable salt or juice, for the cure whereof it is likewise found by experience, that Lime, Bay-salt, and Ashes, and Pigeon's dung, and such like things of hot and binding nature do poison it, and decrease the fertility. It is likewise found by experience, that in such grounds which have been long occupied in good Husbandry, there dung is the best Compost in the world; the cause is, for that by long continuance in such husbandry, the nature of the land is quite changed by the yearly carving of the Corn, Hay, or other crops, whereby the vegetable salt or juice is diminished, and chose the hot and binding nature doth predominate, which require for cure salt-peter, dung, blood, and such things wherein the vegetable salt or juice predominateth: The middle of these natures of ground require Sheep's dung, as of all other most temperate, being neither so hot and dry as Lime, Bay-salt, Ashes, or Pigeon's dung, nor so cold and moist as the dung of beasts, in the room whereof Lime putrified with dung or more earth, as aforesaid, may supply the want thereof very exceedingly.  
The use of these Observations and Experiences may teach us, that all books heretofore written for this purpose, are frivolous; for they prescribe such a Compost for such an earth, of such a colour, or of such a mixture, as sand clay, hazel earth, white clay, red clay, white sand, red sand, black sand, etc. whereas it is found by good experience, that where Lime was the most excellent Compost in the world about a hundred years ago, there about fifty years ago they were forced to change their Compost, and to lay upon the same ground half Lime, and half Dung, and now the same ground requires the Dung only, or else it will yield no Corn, for Lime poisoneth it: yet is not the colour, or quality of the same ground in outward visibility to the eyes corporal, but by the intellectual eyes beholden of all men of good understanding. Therefore that all men may obtain their desire in this work, my counsel is, that the more skilful men, if they take in hand to improve twenty Acres, or more, or less of such land, which they have not formerly tried fully, that they go the best known way with nineteen Acres the first year or two, and make divers several trials in the odd Acres, till they have hit the mark punctually: And as for the more unskilful, my counsel is, that they do make divers several trials in the odd Acre the first year, and let the other be used as aforetime, till by experience they have learned to improve all the best way: By this means many notable Improvements may be found out of inestimable benefit both to the Farmer, Parson, and Landlord, and also to the whole Commonwealth plenty, without any sensible, or considerable loss to the undertaker.  
And for the better instruction than is contained in any book formerly printed or written of this subject, for the Adaptation of Compost, let this suffice for brevity, viz. where the earth is subject in the heat of summer to chap much, if it be clay, or to burn much if it be sand, there if you apply Lime, Salt, Ashes, or Pigeon's dung, or any thing of like hot, and dry nature, there you poison it: Also where the earth is not apt to chap or burn in the heat of summer, there it you apply any other thing except Lime, Salt, Ashes, or Pigeon dung, or other things of hot and dry nature, there you poison that also; for as it is a foolish thing for a Cook to put more salt into the pot, when the pottage were too salt before, so is it as fond a trick in Husbandry to add a Compost to land wherein that quality predominateth which doth also predominate in the land; for Corn and Seeds are as nice in their diet and nutriment as any Lady in the world, and will not prosper nor draw the nourishment if it be never so little distasteful, and this is the cause, why so many times so little a quantity of Compost doth work such wonderful effects by the exquisite adaptation to the land or seed.  
Men might easily find out an apt Compost for such land as hath been Devonshired, and hath spent its fertility, which it will do in three years, and then it is reputed nothing worth: I assure myself that Lime and combustible earth putrified together will do the feat, yea and that with a small quantity, if it be dispersed by my Invention.   

The sixth Experiment or Improvement wherein is showed how Farm-houses, Manors, or Towns may be builded upon high grounds, and plentifully furnished with water.  
It is found by experience that in some places Towns are builded upon high grounds, where Springs or Wells are easily had, and there a thousand Acres of land near to the Town are made worth a thousand pounds in the year, and that a mile off a thousand Acres of the same land for want of Improvement are not worth above a thousand shillings so that there is lost to the Owners and to the Commonwealth nine hundred and fifty pounds yearly.  
For the prevention of which loss, let every Farmer have a Court paved like a Tennis-court▪ and let the Barns, Stables, and other Edifices be so builded▪ that all the Rain-water that they yield may run into the said Court, and from thence into a vault, or well, out of which it may be pumped up, or run into your kitchens, or other houses of Office, which rain water will keep sweet in the close vault; and will serve for all uses whatsoever.  
This is commonly practised in Spain, where they have no other water throughout the whole year for all uses, and their Gentlemen do choose to build upon high grounds for the benefit of the goodness of the air, which is more wholesome in all Countries in the Mountains than in the Valleys.  
Also in Venice and Amsterdam, and in other places where other waters are usually brackish, they keep rain water in Sellars for all uses.  
Also it is found by experience in Rumney Marshes that they use to gather rain water from Churches, and other Edifices, and never have so good and wholesome drink as when they brew with such water.  
And where Tarris is wanting, there you may make use of good clay which is of the nature of Brewer's clay, and will stop water by laying a good thick leer thereof under your bricks, or other pavement in the bottom of your vault or well, and also running in a course of the same clay, betwixt the wall of the vault and the earth.  
And as for water for your cattle, it is a common practice in the West Country, to make ponds to hold water for all the year by bottoming of them with clay in this manner, viz. First choose a place where some higher ground will yield water always, when there is any store of rain, then make your pond as great as you please, then ram the bottom a foot thick with clay, or thereabouts, then make another such leer of clay, and lastly another pavement; this being well done, it will endure for ever, and will hold water every year better than other, by reason of some fat Missage, which the water will let sink.   

The seventh Experimene, wherein is showed how Sellers, that are annoyed with Water-springs way be remedied.  
I have seen a Cellar made with Sheet-lead, and a floor of baords laid upon Treasens or joists of Timber, to keep the Lead from injuries in the floor, which will endure for many Ages; but this is too costly for Farmers; as for their help therein, I have seen a Cellar that sometimes would be filled with water a yard deep, thus cured, viz. First to make two little vaults with bricks laid without mortar, to each corner of the cellar, and to vent the water into four pits, or little wells made without the cellar, then make some few lesser vaults from all places of the cellar into those first vaults; then ram down a good thick leer of good clay upon the top of the bricks, and then to pave the cellar, and the weight of this clay and bricks, and pavement will press down the water, and make it vent itself into the four pits, or wells, which must be laid with bricks without mortar, and then the pits will never be fuller than the top of the Spring, but will vent away the superfluous water continually, and keep the cellar always dry; but if the clay and pavement be not heavy enough to press the water up into the pit, than the floor of the cellar will rise up, and tetter and swim like a bog-mire; and if it be heavy enough, than the cure is substantially performed for ever: If any moisture come in at the sides of the cellar, let them be rammed with clay, as in the former Experiment for vaults. By this Experiment sellars may be made in any low grounds whatsoever, and every one knoweth that drink kept cool in summer is twice as good to quench thirst as warm drink, therefore I need not use more persuasions to men, to make use of this so cheap, so easy, and so certain an Experiment.   

The eighth Experiment, wherein is showed how the rot in Sheep may be cured.  
Although I have showed in the Chapter of the Sheep how this disease may be infallibly prevented, yet in regard that sometimes through negligence of Servants, and sometimes through want of sound grounds to remove them to, at such times as I have prescribed, this disease will happen in your flocks, I will show a certain cure, although somewhat costly, and when I have done I will show you the charge how it may be regained with great advantage: Well then, a little after Midsummer, if the Months of May and June have proved very moist and rainy (for else you need not to trouble yourselves at all) then take a view of your sheep somewhat seriously; if you find by the colour of their eyes, that they have caught that disease, than thus you must proceed. You must have a large barn or sheep-coat, set about with wooden troughs, and therein feed them with Oats a day or two, then steal in some Bay-salt small stamped, and after that some greater quantity, till such time as they begin to distaste it: then give them clean Oats another day or two, and afterward serve them with salt as before, and this course being followed until their eyes have recovered their natural colour, then is the cure performed. This may be done in a Corrt-yard, or in another place, where an house cannot be had; but than you cannot so well recover your charges again, which must be done after this manner, viz you must lay in the house all over good Arable earth for Wheat, and once in three or four day's le● it be turned with a Spade or with a Plough, if both the ends of the house can be opened; and this earth when the sheep are cured must be laid upon a heap for a year or thereabout, where it may be dry until the dung be throughly rotten, and turned into earth: this earth may be dispersed by my Engine to fill up the holes where the Wheat is new set, and so it will produce an increase of four times as much Wheat as you spent in Oats, which will pay for all your Salt and other charges.  
There is a cause why Sheep that are folded do rot more violently than those which are not folded, though they feed upon the same grounds, for that they are more hungry many times by being restrained of their free liberty to feed at pleasure, they do devour the rawish, sowrish, and hurtful grass with more greediness, and are less prone to be nice in their diet, and to refuse that sort which is most pleasing to their nature, therefore it seemeth to be a good way to let them go at liberty in the Months of May and June in such years as those Months of May and June prove very moist and rainy; for it is less trouble and charge to prevent a disease than to cure it afterwards.  
I have known divers men that have drenched their Sheep every year divers times, and thereby have saved them ve●y well, but those men not knowing what years were dangerous, were more troubled than they needed; for sometimes three or four years come together, where there is no need at all to make use either of cure or prevention.   

The ninth Experiment, wherein is showed how Corn may be preserved in cheap years without corruption, so that it may supply the dearth when it cometh.  
It is sound by experience, that when three or four years comes together wherein Corn prospereth well, than it becometh so cheap that the poor Farmer is undone: Again, if the unreasonableness of the weather cross it a year or two, than it becometh so dear that the poor people are half starved. To remedy this inconvenience I know no better way than to instruct Corn-hoarders, who though they usually be none of the best Commonwealths men, yet they do sometimes prevent the Dearth, that it is not so violent as else it would be.  
Well then, thus may we do, make a boarded floor about a yard or two high, and as broad and as long as ye please; then set ledges about it, so that no Mice nor Rats can climb up: then in Harvest make a Rick of Corn upon it, which may be kept three or four years without loss or trouble. If when Winter is past Corn be very cheap, then would I have all the richest Farmers, who are able to forbear their money, to thrash up the most part of their other Corn, and to take down the foresaid Rick, and to make it up again with a leer of thrashed Corn, with chaff and all together, by which means he may lay up a wonderful great quantity in a little room, and have his Straw for his present use, and withal the poorer sort of Farmers may have a better sale for their Corn to pay their rents withal.  
And as for Cities and Corporate Towns, I would have all Householders of good ability to keep a years provision of Corn before hand, and not to spend it till time of dearth, by which means the dearth will not be so grievous when it cometh, and also the cheapness in time of plenty will not so much prejudice the poor Farmer.  
And for the preservation of this Breadcorn, he may lay it up in a Garner four or five foot thick, and it will keep sweet a long time without stirring: If he mingle therewith some Flint stones, Pebbles, old Iron: pieces of Iron taken out of the Kiln, which never took rain since their burning, one bushel of any of these mingled with twenty bushels of Wheat, Rye, Mastline, or any other Breadcorn, will keep it from heating, and if it heat not it cannot corrupt: As for Malt, it will keep two or three years upon a great heap without stirring or trouble if it be well dried at the first: And if the price expected come not soon enough, it is good to change this old store sometimes, and to lay up new in the room, and never to diminish the stock till it will yield double price at least.  
I have known Barley at six pence the bushel in Northampton Market, and at five shillings a bushel in the same place within a year also: I have known Wheat at three shillings and six pence in London, and at fifteen shillings the bushel within a year following; and Histories of good credit declare greater changes than these in former Ages; so that methinks that it were well if Rich men when they die were strongly exhorted and persuaded to give some number of quarters of Corn to be preserved for the public store against such miserable times of dearth and famine.  
A friend of mine propounded to the City of London to show them a way how they might keep a thousand quarters of Corn in such a floor where now they can keep a hundred, by mingling Corn with great Beans, exceeding hard dried on a kiln, which may be separated easily with a wire Try, and are as profitable as the Wheat, and that they should be eased of the charges of turning Corn in the storehouses.  
This Gentleman had learned the experience by long travelling into far Countries, who when the City were not forward to gratify him for his pains and good will, told me how it was to be done, which here I will divulge for the benefit of posterity.  
In hot Countries the use is in some places to put Corn in● Vaults to keep it cool from putrefaction: but this is not found to be a good experiment for these cold Countries. In Egypt I have credibly heard, that the Storehouses which Joseph erected had no covers; but how it was so long preserved I cannot learn nor conceive, unless those Countries being hot and dry, having no rain at all, do ripen the Corn so well, and free it from moisture, that it is not apt to putrify, though it lie sub dio, which seemed to be possible, for that Malt well dried will keep two or three years without stirring; and also Corn in Russia (where for want of maturation, they are 2forced to dry it in stoves) which will keep a long time: but howsoever it is certain, that these former directions being observed in England, the extreme cheapness in time of plenty may be remedied whereby poor Farmers may not be so greatly damnified, and also the extreme dearness in time of scarcity may be mitigated, whereby the poor buyers of Corn supply the rest, which I wish may be practised with all possible diligence, especially in time of dearth, which will save such a wonderful quantity of Corn for present relief, as 〈◊〉 he Storehouses in any Kingdom could never preserve the ●●e in all Ages heretofore.  
It is found by experience, that when there is but a little Corn too much to sell in a Market, there the price falleth too extremely: Also if there be never so little a quantity too small to serve, than the price is enhansed too much in all conscience: For the remedy of which two inconveniences, being so great, all courses seem to be taken, which may possibly be devised.   

The tenth Experiment, wherein is showed the natural cause why the changing of Seed corn produceth an improvement; also certain ways for the melioration of Seeds and Fruits.  
It is found by experience, that if Seed-wheat be brought from barren, and stony land, and sown upon rich clay ground, it prospereth wonderfully, the cause is double: First the Corn that groweth upon a barren land, is more plump and full than that which groweth upon very rich land, and therefore hath more force to increase. Secondly, the Corn that growth upon stony land hath attracted plentifully the Juter, or petrifying saltish nature, which falling into another earth, where that substance is wanting, standeth in stead not only of seed, but also of compost.  
The like might be showed in many other works of this kind, but I wish that this may serve to give light to the rest: As for the meliorating of Seeds and Fruits, the former experience showeth the way; for there is in every compounded substance in the world a double kind of fatness or sulphur, the one ●s apt to putrify the other, not so apt, but endureth longer without putrefaction: this may be seen in Cabbages, and other Garden fruits, growing near great Cities where dung is plentiful, which if they be boiled in water, and the water kept a little time, it will stink sooner than that wherein the like stuff hath been boiled which growed in grounds more barren.  
Whereby it appeareth that the extreme fatting of ground with dung doth in some sort adulterate the seeds and fruits, and pisorate their quality, and chose the sowing the same in more barren earth, doth meliorate the quality of the same.  
Therefore the best way is to sow, set, or plant seeds in barren land, for seeds only; for by that means they will get a greater melioration in their quality when they are intended for seed than the posoration can be in the sowing them in earth much enriched with dung; for in all rich dunged earth the attractive virtue of the seed draweth much of the fatness, which is not much putrified, whereby it declineth from its former virtue and goodness. The one of these fatnesses is grateful to humane nature, the other is offensive for the avoiding of which inconvenience I know none better than to let the dung be fully putrified, and turned into earth without stnking, before it be mingled with the Corn or Seeds.  
And this may be done by my former Inventions, in such sort that there may be above fourscore pounds in the hundred saved in the Compost of all the Arable land in England. There are three causes why people in the Country live longer, and have better health than those that live in great Cities: The first is, the air is more pure and wholesome: The second is their food doth not abound so much with the fatness and sulphur, which is apt to putrefaction, and to contaminate the blood: The third is their much exercise doth evacuate that part of their nutriment which is ungrateful to humane nature.  
The contrary to all these is in great Cities, where the air, diet, and exercise are so much different, the effect doth show the cause very clear, so that there need no other or further philosophation concerning the same.  
If any man doubt whether vegetables draw the corruptible or stinking sulphur, or fatness which lieth within the reach of their attractive virtue, let him behold the places, where beasts have lately dunged in Pastures, and he shall find that there the grass is more sour and gistastfull to the Beasts and Cattle.   

The eleventh● Experiment, wherein is showed how rich Compost may be made in great Cities of things formerly cast away.  
The water wherein Fishmonger's water their Fish, being made as salt as it will bear with the foul salt in the sweeping of ships, salt Lime, great Larders, and other such places, being boiled in Butchers slaughter-houses when their beasts are to be killed, and the blood let run warm unto it, being likewise hot, it will not clodder, but will be admirable good liquor to imbibe good Wheat earth, whereby it may be made the richest Compost in the world to fill the holes where Wheat or Barley is set, for that one bushel of this earth is sufficient to be mingled with three or four bushels of the earth of the land itself, by which means great charge is saved in the carriage itself, by reason that a little quantity will work a great effect. Saltpetre for some grounds is more apt and cheaper, though the price be greater; for a little quantity will work a great effect, especially where the land is hot and dry by nature.  
Sawdust is excellent to mingle with earth to fill the holes where Corn is set in strong binding clay ground. Also shave of horn, hoofs of all beasts, hair of beasts, woollen rags chapped small are admirable. Shave of horn are now usually sold in London for three shillings and six pence a sack for the same purpose: also woollen rags for two shillings a sack: As for hoofs of beasts, hair, and Tanner's horns, may be putrified in good Arable wheat earth, being kept dry from rain, and then the earth, and all together is the richest Compost in the world to be used for the filling of the holes where Wheat is set: Also all other composts whatsoever mentioned in this book are the most wholsomest for man's body, and most effectual for producing of great increase if they be thus ordered.   

The twelfth Experiment, wherein is showed how any Kingdom may live in great prosperity with half the trouble and charge which now they sustain, and yet live in adversity.  
It is found by experience, that where there is a good Council of War, there the kingdom is well defended; and where there is good regularity in Divinity, there the soul is preserved from sickness: Why should it not be so for the state temporal, if a council of Husbandry was erected whereupon the happiness of all kingdoms doth depend? Surely if a certain number of the best experienced men were deputed for this purpose, who might regulate the rest, it would produce a great perfection in that knowledge, which as it is the most ancient of all Sciences, so it is the most excellent and honourable, for that by it all Princes live, and no Inferior person can possibly live without it.  
The Plebeians are like those in Ireland who will not lay aside their old custom, to draw their horses by the tails, though an Act be made against it, nor lay aside the burning their Corn in the straw to save the labour of thrashing, though their houses lie unthatched. I have known some Parsons in Parishes which have been skilful in Agriculture, and have been excellent Improvers of land, and some that were good physicians, and have done much good in their Country that way. I have also known some Landlords qualified with the same skils, and certainly if all were so, it would conduce greatly to the prosperity of a Kingdom, for the greatest profit would redound to those two sorts of men, yet may the martyr be easily ordered so that the rest might live in twice as much prosperity as now they do, and though they were doubled in number: for I have known many men to live better with 30. acres of land than others have done with an hundred of acres; and if need require I can show where one acre of land hath been worth two hundred pound per an▪ by being planted with Melons, and a whole family have lived well upon it, and gathered riches. If the course of Husbandry were regulated in this manner, viz. That no man should occupy any land in Pasture whose fertility may perpetually be increased by the means of water, though the hay growing thereupon were totally spent, to produce dung for the fertilizing of high grounds: Also that no man should occupy any land in Tillage, whose fertility may be perpetually increased in Pasture by having the same dung spent upon them which they yield naturally: Also that no man should Till any other land but such high and barren land as is not able to fertilise itself, and should make use of my several Inventions for the enriching of the same. Then would there be left but little barren land in England in a short space, whereby all the premises in this twelfth Experiment might be easily performed.  
A friend of mine did search divers Register books in several Parishes in England, he also searched the Parson's books of Tithes, and found that where Arable land as turned into Pasture there were fewer Christen, and many more tithe Lambs and tithe Calves, whereby he discovered a kind of Witchcraft, which is to turn men into beasts. To dissolve this Witchcraft there is no other way, but to go the contrary way; and whereas the Landlord found more gain in the increasing of sheep and beasts than formerly he found in the increasing of people, to show a way how more gain may accrue to the Landlord by the increase of people than formerly he found in the increase of beasts; and surely this is no hard task; for if the people's employments be well regulated, there will come more profit a great deal than by beasts. And if there be any doubt whether people may be had to improve the land, and to produce greater profit than beasts can do, let but things be so ordered that the Plebeians may have such good employments whereby they may maintain a married estate plentifully, and it will be found by a short experience, there will be no want of servants. By this means the Parsons may double their tyths, the Landlord may double his rents, and the common people, though doubled in number, may live twice as well as they did before, and Princes and Statesmen shall not have half the trouble which they had before; for want and necessity is found to produce grudge and discontentments: These have produced Rebellions and Insurrections, all which have caused Princes for to lose their kingdoms many times, and turned the state of Country's topsey turvey. Besides that the lives of men would be lengthened, as in former Ages by their good and wholesome diet; for there can be no other cause in nature, why men should be now of lesser stature, and enjoy worse health, and die sooner than in former Ages; but these few, viz. First men are much employed with worldly cares and difficulty for living in populous Countries, which might easily be remedied by the means aforesaid. Secondly, the Corn (which should be the preserver of other meats from too sudden corruption in the bodies of men, before the chilus hath performed all his several offices) is now adulterated and contaminated much by mixing the dung with the corn before the corruptible part thereof be consumed, and so the corn helped to contaminate the blood which should preserve it, and would do it powerfully, if my new Invention were generally put into practice. Thirdly, in populous Countries where there is difficulty of living, the pure law of nature is not observed in Marriages and married estates, but other respects doth sway overmuch, which causeth defects in many generations. But to return to my main subject, I am now about a way to experiment, to meliorate any Corn, Pulse, Seed, Kernel, Fruit, etc. and doubt not but to bring it to pass in such sort that the pleasantness of the taste, the wholsomness of the smell, and the ability to keep other meats from sudden corruption in man's body, will invite great men in general to make use of the same, and to give good prices, so that a Farmer may maintain his family well, and grow rich too by the planting of 1 Acre of land yearly: For upon my certain knowledge, there are fond cast away in every family in England, as well in great Cities, as Country-towns, so many things as being used according to my direction, would produce such an increase of corn yearly as would serve for the maintenance of the said family, and would be more wholesome for the body of man than the greater part of corn which now usually groweth in England, yea though this Compost should be used in the more barren sort of land: So that now the question is not whether this Land, and so consequently other Kingdoms may live in worldly happiness and prosperity for ever hereafter, but whether they will do so or not; for if they be willing, they will show the same by their actions, and then I am sure there is no doubt to be made of the possibility thereof: Whereby an Utopia may be had really, without any fiction at all.  
If order were given that every Overseer of the poor in their Parishes, only one day in the year in the practice of some of these new Inventions, as setting of Wheat, of compounding of Composts in great Cities, fit to be carried many miles, than they would be expert against a year of dearth and famine, so that they might be employed in that work, whereby a wonderful quantity of corn might be saved for the present relief of the Land, which else must needs be imported from other Kingdoms, for which the wealth of this Land must needs be exhausted.   

The thirteenth Experiment, wherein is showed how timber for buildings, and wood for householdstuff may be provided in short space.  
It is found by experience, that a Chestnut will grow in ten or twelve years into a fair tree, able to be the Master-post of a fair building, and then there is no question but that it may be provided into lesser parts, for studds and spars. It is also found that a Walnut will grow in the like time into a tree able to make little tables, boxes, stools and chests, very beautiful and sit for use to adorn the house.  
Whereby any younger brother that will show so much frugality and providence as to obtain leave of his father to plant a certain number of such trees in some convenient place in his father's lands in his minority while he is a Schoolboy, he may not only have wood to build him an house, and to furnish it against his occasion, but also he may win so much credit by his industry and diligence, that as for my part, if I had a daughter to marry, I would sooner match her with him, though I purchase him land to set his house upon, than with his elder brother if he wanted those gifts and qualities, though he were able to make a good Jointure.  
For I have seen by experience, that a present estate, either real or personal, is not to be compared to the quality of thriving, which any man else may likewise see by experience, that sometimes, yea many times, a Farmer being industrious, intelligent, and provident, though he pay a good round rend, liveth better than a Freeholder which is owner of much free-land.   

The fourteenth Experiment, wherein is showed divers ways concerning Fruit-trees.  
It is found by experience, that if the kernel of a Pear or Apple be set and not grafted, but be let grow to a great tree, than it will not bear fruit till forty or fifty years, as a great number of other trees of the same kind.  
It is likewise found by experience, that a Scions taken from a tree that is fruitful, and also from the most fruitful bough of that tree, and being grafted into a young stock of the same kind, as that before mentioned, will bear fruit in a quarter of the time which the other did, the cause can be no other but that nature hath ordained a certain time for propagation in all things, but yet the said time was accelerated in the grass tree, by Art helping Nature, but in the other tree time was left to nature's free determination.  
So that every one may make choice of these two ways at pleasure; and if he aim at his present profit, then graffing is his present way and best; but if he aim at the profit of his posterity, than it is best not to graft at all.  
And by this means he may change the tastes of fruits at pleasure, which by graffing he cannot do; for it is found by experience, that if three kernels of several sorts be put into the cave of a Bean-stalk cut half an inch long above a knot, and so set it will bear a fruit contrary in colour, taste, and form, contrary to any one of them: Also by this means he may exalt the nature and excellency thereof at pleasure, if about the root thereof he make three or four little holes in the earth, and now and then with a little Fennel and a spoon he put into the holes a little of the best new wort, wherein hath been boiled a little Cinnamon, Cloves, Mace, Sugar, or any other substance of excellent taste and odour.  
For as it is found by experience, that any evil neutriment doth spoil, yea & sometimes poison the thing nourished, so any excellent nutriment doth wonderfully advance the goodness and excellency thereof. And after that these trees are come to age of maturity to be fruitful; then the Scions taken thence will be perpetual, and able to fill the whole Country with fruits of the same kind, and by such means as these there is no question but all these varieties of excellent fruits were obtained in former times; for it cannot be thought but that at the first, when there was none but wild fruits, there could neither be such varieties, nor yet fruits of such excellency.  
I have now some trials in hand with some pulse, fruits, and garden stuff to meliorate them in this manner, and do not doubt of the success.   

The fifteenth Observation and Experiment, showing how it may be ordered that Corn shall never be exceeding cheap to the great prejudice of the Farmer, nor exceeding dear to the grievance of the buyer.  
It is found by experience that when Barley is at two shillings the bushel, or under, than an Acre, and so twenty Acres of land may be manured with Malt more cheap than with dung, if it he worth six pence a load, and to be carried half a mile, and this is true if after the common manner the Malt be sowed amongst the Wheat, as they use to do with Pigeon's dung: Malt dust, rags, shave of horn, salt-peter, bay-salt, or any other thing which is potent and effectual for multiplication. Now let every man judge of how great consequence this Experiment will be, if by my new Invention the Malt be dispersed into the holes where the Wheat is set, so that it all lie within the attractive virtue of the Corn, for than none will be lost, and by this means an acre of land may be manured with so much Corn as is usually cast away by the accustomed manner of sowing more than by setting.  
And the reason why Malt is so much better than Corn, is because that by drying upon the kiln the vegetative spirit is killed, and by the Malting the nutritive virtue is opened and advanced, and it mattereth not of what Corn the Malt is made, as of Barley, Pease, Beans, Oats, Fetches, or Buck-wheat, or whatsoever is cheapest; for by this means it is converted into the substance of the Wheat together with the benefit of the multiplication, neither is it material whether the Mast be ground or not, especially for Wheat, or any Corn sown before winter, for that in due time it will be dissolved and putrified, so that by little and little it may be assimilated.  
I have found by experience, that when I have taken the great piked Wheat, my increase hath been doubled more than with the smaller sort, the reason can be no other, but that such Wheat is both Seed and Compost. I have also put into every hole with the Wheat seven or eight Malt-cornes, and then increase was four or five, yea six times more increased than before, and this seven or eight Malt-corns being so dispersed by my Engine into every hole is quickly done, and amounteth to no more Corn than is usually cast away in sowing more than is needful in setting.  
Now the use to be made of this Experience for the prevention of cheapness, is to make a great use thereof in time of exceeding plenty, and to keep much dung in store for another year; this with the practice of engrossing and hoarding up of Corn, taught before, will prevent immoderate cheapness, and preserve many an honest poor Farmer from poverty.  
And howsoever I shall not be free from the aspersion of the ignorant Plebeians for this my attempt, yet I regard them not, being devoted to the universal benefit of all, and let them be pleased to understand that every cheap year is but a forerunner of a dear one, unless that this course be taken, by reason that much Corn ground is usually upon such occasions turned into Pasture, when as the Farmers find more gain in converting the fruits of the earth into Beef, Mutton, Butter, Cheese, etc. then by turning them into Corn.  
And let them be pleased also to take notice of the Statute made in the reign of King James of happy memory, which alloweth Engrossers to hoard up Corn for no other purpose but this, which Statute I wish all men, that can spare their money, to take notice, and to mast use of the same for their own advantage, as well as for the public benefit, and let them not doubt of their gain, which must needs prove certain howsoever, yea though nature should divers years together prove a loving Nurse, and not play the Stepmother by administering too much rain or too much drought, or too little of either, which is sometimes seen three or four years together, though very seldom, and if it happen so, yet by turning the Arable land into Grass, it hath always come to pass, as I have diligently observed for many years, that the price of Corn hath been doubled at the least.  
Now that I have done with the preventions of cheapness, I will proceed to the preventions of dearth, which may be partly done by the storing of Corn, and partly by my new Invention for the expeditious setting of Corn, which is so easy and quick for dispatch, that he that hath an ordinary plowland, viz. sixty acres in Tillage may set it all in due time, and pay his charges with the fourth part of the money, which he may sell his corn for presently, besides the increase of the succeeding crop, which will be a third part more at least, and will come in a good time; for it is never seen, that corn is very cheap, the next year after a dear.  
And by this means a good Farmer may sow twenty quarters in his seed corn, which is worth twice as much money as it is other years, and how much corn will be thus sowed in the whole kingdom, I lean to the estimation of all men, and suppose that they will confess that if every Farmer keep these Engine; ready for such times, howsoever they make not so great use thereof in time of exceeding cheapness, that it may well be called store-corn, and is more effectual, and preserveth greater abundance of Corn for the prevention of dearth, than all the storehouses that ever were in the world.  
I have taken the more pains and diligence in the penning of this discourse, because I beheld the merciless dealing of men one with another upon all advantages; for if corn prosper well, than the buyers will cause the price to fall twice as much as much as the plenty requireth in equity; and on the other side of Corn do fail never so little extraordinary, than the sellers will enhance the price double at the least to that which a good conscience requireth.   

The sixteenth Experiment, showing how all sublunary substances may be changed one into any another.  
This Experiment may serve as well for pleasure to a man, that delighteth in the knowledge of the secrets of nature, as for profit to him that delighteth in the gaining of riches, and if any man that delighteth in both, shall take advantage by these my demonstrations to obtain his desires, it shall not displease me. When I first entered into these speculations, I conceived that surely the God of Nature had endued her with a great desire of changes, even as he endued the inferior creatures with a desire of propagation; for else certainly in some age or other there would have been more stability in sublunary things than hath ever been found; for what changes hath their been in Monanchies, Lierchies, Kingdoms, Commonwealths, great Families, Honours, Governments, Religions, &c., surely a man cannot but think that Nature taketh great delectation to ring changes upon the bells of Fortune, and also in the change of one creature into another, so to make varieties a● pleasure.  
To proceed according to my accustomed brevity, because I will not increase my book to a greater volume, than I intended: I will tefer the Reader to the perusal of my former Experiments, which do in a manner contain all together such changes, and here I will only handle some few of the most difficult, and such as are by most men deemed impossible. And my first demonstration shall be to show how Minerals may be turned into vegetables; the second, how vegetables may be turned into Minerals; the third, how animals may be turned into vegetables back again; the fourth, how those vegetables may be turned into Minerals.  
And in these transmutations, I mean not that the whole substance is changed, but that a share thereof: so much as is apt for the next body, into which it is to be turned, is really changed, even as a man should take a great viol, or instrument of Music, and make a little Fiddle thereof, no man can deny, but that the substance of the Viol is converted into the Fiddle, notwithstanding that there is a great number of chips which entered not into the Fiddle  
Well then I will proceed, and divide this sixteenth Experiment into several Experiments for more easy apprehension.   

The first Experiment, showing how Minerals may be turned into vegetables.  
First choose a parcel of Arable land that is somewhat barren, and divide it into two equal parts, water often the one half thereof, with water wherein the oar of Copper hath been long steeped therein, and putrified till it be greenish and fattish; the like may be done with water wherein English Coperas hath been dissolved, which is made of iron; then water the other half with common water as often; then sow all the land with the same seed, and look how much more cometh of the one than of the other, the same was produced by the vegetative part of the Minerals.   

The second Experiment, showing how this Corn may be turned into Animals.  
Take a couple of tame of Pigeons, and let them have no other Corn but this, and let them breed and multiply in number, and then the increase must needs come from the vegetables which had their increase from the Minerals.  
And if you will proceed further, you may work these two Experiments in such great quantity, that there may be Corn and Pigeons, and other fowl enough to serve a man and a woman without any other food till they have increased their number, and then you have part of the said substance converted into reasonable creatures, which are the most excellent amongst all Animals.   

The third Experiment, showing how this Animal may be turned into Vegetable again.  
Take a parcel of barren ground, as before, and bury an Animal in it, then take two trees both of one growth, and greatness, and plant one upon the grave, the other in the same barren ground, and you shall see that the tree growing upon the grave will be greater than the other, for that it is nourished with the putrified Animal, and so the substance of the Animal is turned into the Vegetable.   

The fourth Experiment, showing how this Vegetable may be turned back into Minerals.  
This wood being put into some particular waters will be turned into stone; the like may be done in some Mines and Quarries, I have seen both Wood and Fishes turned into Stones, and no man can deny but that stones are Minerals, and if this be done in very fit water, Mine or Quarry, than the Stones may be melted into Iron or other fusible substances, and if Iron you may turn part thereof into good Gold by the way prescribed in my book of Minerals.  
And thus you see how this wonder is nothing, the secret being discovered, and that I do as it were carry Owls to Athens in the publishing thereof: the like may be done by turning Grains into Malt again when they have been brewed, by dispersing them into holes where Barley is set, so that they will produce as much Barley, which being turned into Malt, will make as much drink as before.  
And so may any barren land be turned into fertile land, and if any man doubt it, he may see a fruitful garden made upon the top of a Turret or Rock though more pleasant than profitable, and therefore the Impossibility being taken away, let every one trouble himself no further but to find out where it may be done with the greatest facility, for it will quit the charge the better to improve grounds near London, where hay is at thirty shillings a load in a cheap year than in the Country, where it is at six shillings and eight pence a load, though the labour and charge be alike.  
There is an old saying, that it is better to buy good land than make good land, which is true with this distinction, viz. It is better for him that is ignorant in Husbandry to buy good land, but for him that is skilful, it is better to buy barren land, so that it lie apt for Improvement, for that by this means he may gain as good a revenue for a thousand pound charge and purchase as another shall gain for two thousand pound; and I fear not that this discovery will leave no means for men of skill to thrive more than others; for I am assured there would needs to be but little barren land in England but through the barrenness of men's wits.   

The last Experiment, showing how weeping land may be drained where there is no level.  
Make a ditch about it, then ram the ditch full of tough clay to keep out rain-water, then make a pond in the nether part of it, into which make drains under the ground, as is taught in the Experiment; then raise the water by an engine or waterwork of the most fit sort for that place and purpose. This work will quit the charge very well near London, or in any place where hay and grass is at a good price.     

A Philosophical Letter concerning Vegetation or the Causes of Fruitfulness.  
I Shall a little tell you what my thoughts are about Vegetation; and what I have within myself instituted.  
First, I have framed a pretty large Induction upon common and familiar Experiments, to demonstrate that without controversy Salt is the seat of life and vegetation, and so the subject of nutrition. And this being assented to, it is in the next place to be considered whether Salt as Salt be this subject, or whether all Salts equally nourish? Here comes in an examination of Salt by their Tribes, as 1. Nitrous Salt, 2 Urinous Salt, in which are comprehended, 3. all Dungs, Horns, Shreads and the like; 4. Common Salt, and Sea sand; 5. Kaly Salt, as Ashes, Kelpes, Mineral Salts, as of Stones or Lime, of Marl, Chalk, Fullers-earth, Vitriol.  
And because some Salts do kill, as that of Vitriol, also that of Stones and Lime, if applied in quantity and to the plant itself immediately. Hence comes the examination of Salts further, viz. Whether any Salt doth universally nourish all Plants, and make them thrive, or whether some do best agree with one, others with another, and upon the clear determination of this, and this solely doth the great secret of Imbibition depend, if we speak of things rationally, and not like Mountebanks. But here two knots offer themselves, and will do so whether we will or no.  
First seeing you cannot sow, set, or plant any Vegetable or Seed in salt alone, but must require two other Media, viz. Water to dissolve and make sluyd the particles of Salt, whereby the pores of the Plant or Seed may be capable of it, and admit it. 2. Earth as a fit uterus or matrix to keep the thing planted steady. Hence a scruple ariseth, what is earth abstractedly considered, for either it is and or salt, or water, or some other body. If Sand, whence comes its clamminess and aptness to sod together? If Salt, whether is that a peculiar salt, and whether can it be separated or not from it? If Water, how comes it to be unable to nourish without addition still of moisture. If earth be none of all these, what is it, and what is its property, and whether hath it any Energy? And indeed this is a very necessary enquiry; for my Imbibitions signify nothing if my earth be beforehand impregnated with another salt of perhaps a much different nature than what my plant imbibed doth require: And how shall I know this, when all Inquiries about the natures of earth, their several salts, dispositions, their uses, and necessity for Germination, and their several ways of composition and correction is wholly lame and unsought after.  
5. It is to be considered, that Water, especially Rain-water, hath life in itself without any addition of Salt or Earth, as is most apparent as by many Experiments, so by that famous and commonly known one in Africks', That Rain-water in four and twenty hours' will ba full of Infects, that it will putrify. Now if even Rain-water itself be sufficient for life, and do contain manifestly a vital salt in it, what is the need of those other Salts which seem more remote from a life or vitality of disposition.  
6. As no possibility of nourishment, nor any approach to Vegetation without moisture, so no possibility of life without an excitation and production of it by an actual warmth, and this is as well seen in vegetables as in Animals: For the earth is there, the salt is there, and the water is there, yet in sharp and cold weather vegetation is not to be effected. Hence on the other side produceth nothing simply, unless in a soil first sited, and cold itself, though not a fit season for Germination, yet permits of nutrition to many plants, who have even their lustre then, as the Cypress, the Fir, the Bay, with several other. He therefore that will enter upon this great subject of promoting Vegetation, must first know what things are prin●ipalia, what minus principalia, tamen necessaria, and what part to attribute to each, viz. the Earth, the Salt, the Water, or Dew the warmth and the spirit of the Plant itself.  
Secondly, he must seriously weigh, whether the subject of Fermentation and things that serve to excite and entertain heat be not of one kind, subject of nutrition of another.  
Thirdly, whether Fermentation being no other than a species of Motion, there may not be divers sorts of it arising from the nature and diversity of the Salts or other subjects which cause it: And whether according to this divers motion the subject of Nutrition, having in it also a vital principle, may not be disposed more or less, to take this or that figure?  
Lastly, he must resolve the several Casualties, as I may call them, of Vegetation, as why the earth puts forth some Plants sponte, not other? why it very seldom puts forth some, unless it be in producing of others, as Botanists can tell you, that many Plants are rarely, or never found unless in ploughed fields, either under Corn and Tillage, or under Fallow, why water should put forth Plants that will not at all grow in the earth? Why on the other side some plants destroy even the Vegetative virtue, as it were in the soil where they are, as to many Plants, as is manifest in Hemp and in Oade. These, Sir, are the Institutes I set myself to in the point of Husbandry. In the ignorance of any of which, I think a man knows satisfactorily very little. They are rudely set down, but may afford ground of larger discourses. If you shall please either to cherish or excite this humour in me, by laying or propounding of something further for promoting of vegetation upon these comprehensive grounds, I shall not refuse to deal very freely with you, if you will afford me an occasion by letting me have the thoughts of some better wits than mine own upon them.   

An Extract out of another Philosophical Letter.  
If I were to answer the question concerning fertility, I would in one word say, that the chief cause of the opening of the of Seed, and its becoming fruitful, is the Anima or Sal Natura, and that which is its Deputy or Loadstone: and I think that this saying will comprehend all those causes which the Proposer of this Question doth very learnedly reckon up. For hence (though it be more than the Husbandmen know) comes all the ploughing and turning of the clods upside down, that so fresh earth like an hungry Loadstone, may be exposed to the light, by which it may draw in that Sal Natura, which doth make it fruitful. All dunging are the Deputies and Lodestones of this Sal Natura, and by them, ground may be recovered, amended and imreproved.   

Another Letter on the same Subject.  
I Have read the Book of Husbandry thorough, being very much delighted with the many profitable ingenious and promising Inventions specified therein, I wishing that I were a Farmer in the Country, to play the practical Philosopher. I remember in Cambridge, being a youth, I was wont to maintain that he was no Natural Philosopher, that could not advance his Tillage, order his cattle, fishing, fowling affairs with more dexterity, and to greater profit than another man that pretends no skill in Physic. This I speak from what I have read somewhere in Ramus, who referred all Arts to profitable use in man's life, abhoring the vain ostentations of the sophisticated Universities. The mention which is made of Experiments of fructification by Salt, confirms me in an opinion, that the Sea is as the heart of the World, whence the waters run by low and secret ways into the earth, as by Arteries carrying the vitality of Salt into the body of the whole earth, wherewith it hath lost its metal and vigour, and is become fresh, it returns again by the Rivers as by veins into the Sea, to receive a new fructifying and quickening tincture, by the way serving to allay the indispositions that Animals find in themselves by the over-activity of Salt, which we call quenching of thirst, etc. I have long thought of this, being moved thereunto at first by considering the like motion of blood in the Microcosine▪ as here the heart resembles the Sea, the motion of the blood the ebbing and flowing and circular motion of the Sea waters: for the blood being salted in the heart, and spirited with subtle Nitre or Gunpowder, it by the Arteries in a more secret passage (like that of the Sea waters into the earth) is distributed through the body, where having spent its vigour and metal, it by the high and visible way of the veins, lying on the surface of our earth, is returned to the heart again to be fresh pickled, I doubted of the truth of this, till I read your book, because I remembered that I had read of sowing the ground with salt in the Israelitish wars, which I had heard interpreted to make it barren, and because I have heard the old women say, it will make herbs die to have urine to fall upon them.   


How the Controversy about Helmont's Assertions, mentioned in the fourth Deficiency of the Legacy of Husbandry may be reconciled.  
IN your Legacy (Deficiency 4.) I find these words, A learned Author (Helmot) saith that smuttiness of Corn, which maketh it smell like a red herring, was not known in France till about 1530. At which time the great foul disease began to break forth, which he conceiveth from hence to have some original, as also the Camp-disease.  
To this your friend at Paris, in his letter dated July▪ 22. 1651. replies thus.  
The foul disease had its original full 36 years' sooner than Helmot says (viz.) in the year 1494. and nothing could be advanced more absurd or ridiculous in the judgement of all sound Physicians than to attribute the original of that disease in any wise to smutty Corn, as he doth.  
This difference had been prevented, if both your friends had not written without book. The place in helmont's writings, is not quoted by the former man, nor doth the latter seem to have looked for it. You shall find the passage in helmont's book called Tumulus pestis, in the fourth chapter, whose title is, Peregrina lues nova, there you may find these words, Notatur autem annus 1424 & Parth noplicobsidio, aetas luis, ejusque prima nativitas. Here the Printer was negligent, as appears by that which follows a great way after in the same chapter. Lues (saith he) ista primùm visa legitur in obsidione Neapolis, Anno 1494. Then follows a long discourse wherein he seems to approve the opinion of one that suspected that it was bred by some villain that at the siege of Naples buggered a Mare (for that Helmont means by jume●tum, imitating the French word jument) infested with the farcin, or, as our Farriers call it, the fashions. And, saith he, Non credam facilè unquam [antea] ejusmodi peccatum in talibus terminis ab origine mundi commissum; estque morbus [ille, Farcin] lui venereae similis & equinae naturae affinis ac familiaris.— After this He mout proceeds in the order of time.  
Anno 1540 sub Paulo III. circa Autumnum in Apulia pro●e Tarentum, prima apparuit Tarantula— Araneae simile, etc.  
Anno 1550. in Augusto, Galli primum viderunt Triticum, quod vocant roratum, sive mellitum: in aristae adhuc viridi halecem fumatam odore referens: in matura verò, nihil nisi faesidum pulverem atrum: popularium utinam non morborum plurium causam.  
Anno 1556. nostris oris maritimis (he means Flanders, Zealand, Holland) primum apparuit scorbutum, veteribus ignotum.—  
By all which, it is manifest, that Helmont hath written nothing contrary to your latter friends assertions; and that your former friend in writing that passage, trusted more to his memory, than it deserved.  

An Observation touching planting of Trees in the Fens.  
I Received your Legacy of Husbandry, (though do not yet suppose you dead) but rather your own Executor distributing your good things in your life time, whilst others are like Swine, good for nothing until dead. I have perused the book, and cannot but wonder, that in your constant residence in London, you can see so far into the Country. One part I have pitched on, and that is the Plantation of a Mulberry Garden, for the feeding of Silkworms, and having some already, I shall endeavour their increase as much as may be. I hope S. R. Weston, will comply with your desires, and also all others whose abilities shall be accompanied with good affections, and a will for to promote all useful arts and sciences. Touching Planting of Trees being lately in the Fens about Whittelsey, I observed a kind of Husbandry, of planting of Willows by sets upon ridges, which in those vast and vacant grounds being always very moist doth soon produce an incredible profit, and increase of firewood and Timber for many Country uses, and doth improve as fast as your Lime-trees. As I meet with other things, I shall acquaint you with them.    

More Observations concerning Fruit-trees, and the great benefit of Furzes, for keeping Mice and Rats out of Barn-floors (or other rooms) as likewise Reeks of Corn, and Cheese-racks.  
I Had not until now, conveniency to give you a further account of the Sussex Gentleman improving of his fruit-trees, my friend will repair unto him, and take as he promiseth the particulars from himself, and I may then impart it more satisfyingly: yet at the present he relateth that he gathereth all the Sult that remaineth in the Channel that conveigheth water to his Meadows, and layeth it on heaps in or near his Orchard, and then taking all earth he may conveniently from his fruit trees root, he putteth this Sult unto them, and this every two years, and that he hath thus recovered old decaying Trees, and such as had scarce bark or any life left in them, and that his other Trees have shot forth and fructified double and treble to what they did before. For the Devonshire Gent. I am hopeless of seeing him again, but his relation concerning Furzes, was to this effect. That they valued them much in Devon, and sowed their seed for hedges to shelter their cattle, and for Fuel and that they found them very profitable for fruit-trees being young, to hang about their bodies near the ground to defend them from Hares (which usually bawk young Trees) sheep and winds; and that the (dressis) as he called the dust of them, doth marvellously hearten the earth in which they grow if laid upon the ground only round about them, and that they value that dust for that use above any horse dung. They are of excellent use to keep Mice out of Barn-floors, for being laid under the Corn, Mice and Rats avoid touching the floors. So Reeks of Corn, that stand from the ground upon piles of Wood and Cheese-racks that have Furzes bound in the way where the vermin might creep, are sufficiently secured. The Lady D. told me that at Islington being annoyed with Rats, she was advised to take Furzes, and place them in the passages and holes where Rats entered her rooms, and that she was fully cleared of them by that means. Thus contemptible things are of precious use, by the order of him, that made nothing in vain.  

An Estimate made some years ago, of the great destruction of Corn by the multitude of Pidgeon-houses.  
An Estimate of the great quantity of Corn that Pigeons do eat spoil and destroy in the County of Cambridg, and probata for every shire of England the one with the other, as by due inquiry may be made appear as followeth, viz.  
1. THat there are in the County of Cambridge 163 Parishes, and in every Parish one with another 3 Dove-houses, every house hath in it at least one with another 200 holes, which are bred in, and in every hole a pair of Pigeons, which breed, besides those that have no mates, which breed not, of whose number no notice is taken, which devour, eat, and spoil much Corn also.  
2. That it hath and may be proved that a Pigeon hath had at one time in her Crop, 1000 Wheat Corns, which is about a pint, a Pigeon doth feed thrice a day, then conceive what every Pigeon doth spoil, eat, and devour in a year, but to come to a far less scantling, that a Pigeon doth eat but half a pint a day, besides that he spoileth, by the space of six weeks in the harvest time only, besides that he beateth much down and spoil, in beating down the standing Corn that amounteth unto at least at the rates aforesaid, for every Pigeon house the one with the other 39 Combs, and 6 pecks one sort of Corn & grain with another, the which t'other at 10 s. the Comb, comes unto 19 l. 13 s. 9 d. but let it be granted (as true it is) that every Pigeon house eateth, besides that he otherwise spoileth, to the value of 20 l. worth by the space of six weeks as aforesaid, and the number of Parishes in the whole Nation, being 9533. as Whites Almanac said, besides Londen, and so rate every shire with the County of Cambridge, at 3 Dove-houses for every Parish, the one with the other; for in some Parishes there be far more, at which rate the whole Kingdom amounteth unto 28599. devouring Dove-houses, the which at the several rates aforesaid cometh unto 571980 l. damage to the whole Kingdom, in six week's space only, but it is conceived they have nine weeks in the harvest to eat and spoil, in which it may amount to half as much more; besides that they devour at seeds, and other times in their several ways.  
3. That the multitude of Dove-houses are winked at, and are suffered to stand in many places for the engendering of Peter, where some of the Owners thereof not sowing any Corn at all, and some other having but a little Land with Corn of their own inheritance. And moreover, the profit of any Dove house, is not worth to the Owner thereof, the 40. part of that which the Pigeons devour only in six week's space, besides what they beat out and spoil.  
4. That the damage then in what the Pigeons eat, devour, and spoil in the whole Kingdom in six week's space, at the rates aforesaid, amounteth unto One Million, seven hundred, and seventeen thousand nine hundred and forty pound at the least.  
5. But if it may be proved, that they eat and devour by the space of nine weeks as aforesaid, than it will amount to the sum of Two Millions, five hundred, seventy three thousand, nine hundred and ten pounds' damage to the Kingdom in that space, which is more than all the Pigeons and Peter made in the Kingdom is forty times worth.  
6. That if it may be computed how many poor people of six persons in a Family at a bushel a week for every family, that which the Pigeons do eat and destroy in the space aforesaid will maintain so many thousand families for nine week's space, which is a thing worthy to be thought upon and reform by the Parliament.  
7. That in some Towns where there are not above fifty or sixty Families, there are ten or twelve Dove-houses, and the best owners thereof except Lords of the Manors, have not above forty or threescore acres of ploughed land in the Town; besides that, it will be proved, that in some Parishes there are two or three Dove-houses, where is not one Acre of ploughed land in these Parishes.  
8. That Judge Crook at an Assize time was of opinion, that it was neither fitting nor lawful for any man to have a Dove-house when so many poor people and their families may be maintained with the Corn that the Doves do eat, spoil, and devour.    

Another Estimate by way of confirmation of destructive Pidgeon-houses.  
Pigeons can fly far for the filling of their crops and return the same night, so long as Pigeons can get Corn they will eat little less  
They begin to eat Corn about the end of J●ly, at which time the Corn (which is before hand sprung up in the ear, and that ear pretty well filled) begins to ripen or turn colour, and they hardly want Corn till the end of Barley seeding, which is about May day, which in all amounts to two hundred and eighty days or thereabouts, the rest of the time they live on benting, etc.  
There are in England and Wales at least 24000 Dove-houses, and there cannot be less than 500 pair of old Pigeons in each house one with the other, which amounts to 2000000 of pairs.  
(To speak very modestly) each pair of old Pigeons (with what they carry home to their young in their seasons) do eat one pint a day, which is in a year for every pair above four bushels, and for all above 6000000 of Quarters of all sorts, worth one with the other twenty shillings a Quarter. Thus much they devour certain, out of what we have and know; but if we should go about to reckon what might have come of those corns they eat at seed time (being doubtless the best and largest grains of all, and more like to come to good than those they leave) which cannot be accounted less than 4000000, since seed time is twice as long as harvest, and should we suppose but one ear to have come of one grain, and that ear one grain with another to have yielded but sixteen single corns, it would seem strange to hear talk of 64000000 of Quarters (and consequently of pounds as aforesaid) to be prevented thus yearly, that it may seem we might have, but have not, by our own wilful preserving and multiplying so great an enemy in our very bosoms; besides the incredible hurt they do yearly in unthatching, and so spoiling of whole ricks, and beating out and down many thousand acres at harvest.   

A kind of Universal Medicine, or the virtues of Chewed Bread.  
GOD is very often pleased to manifest his great power by such means as are in themselves, or at least we esteem them for such, the most common, weak, unlikely, or contemptible. And of this sort is that kind of Medicine I told you of, which I have very often experimented for curing myself and others of divers and several wounds, aches, bruised ulcers, and other hurt and sorances, for confirmation of this truth give me leave to report unto you some particular experiments which I myself have made from my own self.  
I was once (passing the Irish Seas in a vessel that was ballast with coal, and by a violent storm, and a great leak almost suffering shipwreck, my body being made much more liable to receive the malignant quality of a damp, or infectious vapour arising from the wet coal by being first much sea-sick, and immediately fasting about four days and five nights) taken with a great swelling, and that fallen, and nothing to be seen, there followed the greatest torment by way of ache, that (I thank God) I ever felt to this day; which pain (notwithstanding many salves and medicines, prescribed by some that pretended much skill, lasted, nay increased for at least three week's space. At last I resolved, and did lay to this easy Poultesse (viz.) White Bread Chewed in my own mouth to a kind of pap or soft paste: I chewed so much as bound both my feet about of all sides; I went to bed, and fell fast asleep for two or three hours (which I had not done in all the time before.) The next morning when I waked, my pain was gone: And (I thank God) I was never troubled with it since.  
Another time being struck with a (new shod) stoned horse, just on the shinbone, my leg swelled so that my boot was fain to be cut off: I laid this to it when I went to bed, and next day the pain was gone, yet to this day there is the mark.  
Divers green wounds I have cured with it.  
My hand was bitten through by a mad dog, I said this only to it, and healed it in three or four days.  
I have by applying this six times so mollified a Corn upon my toe, that I after took it out core and root and all, and never any more grew in the place.  
I took once a very great cold, which swelled all my throat on both sides under the chin, and broke into a foul sorance like the King's Evil. I applied this, and took it away in two or three days.  
For many years together I was troubled with an old pain in my shoulder, caused by some strain the pain was not always but only when I did suddenly and violently lift up my arm as to strike or through a stone or the like, by applying this I took it away.  
And lastly since you commanded me to give you this account, as I was with a great hook pruning a tree in my Orchard, I struck the point of it by mischance into the nail of my Thumb, above a quarter of an inch almost through, and in two or three renuings of this salve (God be praised) 'tis very well.  
And lest it should be said or conceived that this Medicine would cure none but myself, I have also experimented it upon divers others; for example, Once I applied it to a man's leg that was so swelled and putrified, that he had divers great and deep holes therein, and all over nothing but most filthy rottenness, it was conceived to be a Gangrean howsoever under God this cured it.  
Once I applied it to my servant, that was run into the very joint of the knee with a rusty Rapier, and for want of looking to it, did fester exceedingly; insomuch that the Chyrurgians spoke of cutting it off, howsoever under God it did cure him, although he did come at his wife in the time of the cure.  
Once a Maid of my Sisters received a very violent blow with the handle of a double draw well, it was black and blue (as they call it) from the Elbow to the Shoulder, for it hit her upon the Brawn of the Arm, yet under God, I cured her in a day or two with this only.  
My wife had the end of her Thumb sorely bruised or broken, between the Wheel and the Nut of my Engine, as it was in swift and strong motion, and applying nothing but this, she was well in a small time (God be praised.)  Cum multis aliis. 
The quality of it is (slowly but certainly) to stench blood, to ease pain, to draw out any poison or a thorn, and to heal up and make sound the place grieved.  
But some men by intemperance, or evil constitution of body, are harder to heal then others.  
If you lay it to any sound place it works nothing. This I testify for truth upon my own knowledge.  
C. D.   

The Scotch way of Brewing their strongest and best ALE.  
1. THey first boil the water, and scum it till it be very clear, and then  
2. They put that water to the Malt, allowing eight gallons of water to every bushel of Malt, which done:  
3. They stir it very well for the space of one whole hour together, at the end of which:  
4. They cover it very close with clothes, and let it stand so for two hours; and then:  
5. They let the Wort run out from the Malt.  
6. When the Wort is all run out, they boil it for two whole hours together, and take of the scum very clean; which being done:  
7. They put it into Coolers, and when it is well cooled it will rope like oil, and then:  
8. They put it into a Tub, and put their yeast to it, but if they want yeast they take a green Birchen rod, and wreath it, and so put it into the Wort, and it will make it work as well as yeast will; having done so:  
9 They let it work very well before they Tun it, and afterwards when it hath done working in the vessel, they stop it very close with salt and clay, and so ordered it will last seven years; but because with long standing it doth waste, they in the heat of Summer, do fill it up with new ale, which will both make it work, and quicken it.   

How to make Wine out of Corn.  
TAke your Alewort as it is fit to barrel up, put it into a vessel that will contain about twice as much, and into it put of good Honey despumed to every Gallon of Ale a pound and a half and of good Yeast as much as will serve to set it on work. Cover then the bung (not close) and the vessel lay over with clothes, and once a day for about a quarter of an hour stir it well, and be sure you stir all the Honey and Yeast well, when you put it in, so it will work well for several days together; and when it hath done working almost, renew the working with new Yeast, quickened with a small quantity of fine (i. e.) the fine flour that is in grinding Malt) Malt dust, this do three times, and at last before the working be quite over stop the bung, leaving only a quill hole for about two days, then stop it close, and let it stand cool in a cellar; in two Months, it takes the natural taste and smell of Wine, and will keep accordingly.   

Another Process to make Wine of Corn.  
TAke good Malt ground, as it is to be brewed, put to it as much water as the vessel will hold, when it is full of Malt; add Yeast to it equally in every part, and let it work what it will in a barrel the bung open. Then take to each Gallon of the matter half a pound of good Honey, dissolve it in warm water, and put it in warm, and more Yeast: Let it the second time work with not a fourth of the vent it had at first; and when the working is almost abated, take half as much Honey more, and dissolve it and warm it, and let it work by putting in Yeast the third time, only a peg-hole open; and when this third Fermentation ceaseth, let it stand open about six hours, to let out the wild spirit, then stop it up close, and in four Months it will be clear and fine, which then may be racked from the Lees, for all but the husk of the grain will be liquor, and this Wine is not inferior in taste and goodness to the richest Canaries.  
Because it is hard to hit right upon the knack at first, and few processes of this nature perfectly understood without a few trials, it's advised, that these Experiments be made in many and little vessels (for that's much the safer way) till we are Masters of the Mechanic of them.   

Some Animadversions upon the foregoing Process of making Wine of Corn.  
I See no defect in this Process, if by thrice fermenting the taste of the honey will be taken away. It is no matter what quantities of Water and Yeast you use, provided there be Yeast enough to make it work, which every Brewer knows, and experience will easily show it: And for your Water, you may take as much as will make it either strong or small, as you desire it; for the quantity of water will no way spoil the business. But I am not of their mind who think it may best be brewed in small vessels, for they are not fit for the purpose. For my part I would never try it in a less vessel than a barrel, for experience shows that drink will work best in great vessels. Glanber knows how to precipitate Raisins and Honey so as to take away the taste of them, and to make the liquor taste like Wine, but I could never get it from him; yet I guess he doth it with Tartar, or Lees of Wine.   

Glauberus' Promise or Undertaking for making Wine out of Corn.  
OUr friend Glauber is desirous once again to draw unto us, he is at present with his family at Franckfort, being minded to come down again into Holland, desiring my advice herein, and to hold some discourse with me, being also to come with the first opportunity in his own person to the Elector of Colen. He doth fully apprehend, that it can no longer fail him, but that he shall obtain in a short space of time a good sum of money for the support of his family, in regard he hath a great and weighty piece of business in hand, which proceedeth out of Corn, and is affirmed to have such a property, that it will be acceptable to the whole world, so as thereby a quarter of Corn shall be advanced to a great value. He is intended shortly to put forth a small Treatise, being an Explication upon his Miraculum mundi, wherein he will endeavour to reveal some of the chiefest matters therein contained to those that desire it, and to demonstrate it to their sight. And he doubts not but that many great Lords and Princes will strive accordingly to bring profit and advantage to their co●ntries as being a work of great importance. Now the reason why he will communicate is this, because that it is endeavoured after already by false pretenders, and that much mischief may easily be effected by it, neither can it much longer be kept secret, together with the Communication of the Corn and Wine Traffic.  
He will make Wine out of Corn, which in all respects shall be answerable unto the natural wine. He hath likewise such a compendious way of melting the Sun and Moon, Earth or Mines, which will be necessary and acceptable unto the whole world, whereby he is in hope not only to raise a good sum of money, but also to procure an immortal fame to his posterity, for they are unheard of things, profitable and necessary for the whole world to know. These are all his own formalia dated the 6 th'. of October at Franckfort. The aforesaid Treatise shall speedily be translated into Latin, whereby it may be transported into foreign parts.   

An Advertisement concerning the Mystery of making Wine according to Glaubers undertaking.  
ALL ingenious and industrious experiments that desire further satisfaction in this matter, till Glauber shall have performed his promises, relating to his Corn-wine undertake, are faithfully advised to study and practise the several hints and directions, which are given in a Treatise, called The Reformed Commonwealth of Bees. Printed in the year 1655. and is to be sold by Giles Calvert at the Black Spread-Eagle at the West end of Paul's.   

How a Meadow about the end of May or beginning of June, before the Seeds of Grass are ripe, may be used.  
Ll●t Weeders (hired by the day) cut of the heads of all sorts of Grass, but such as of which the seed is desired. This being done, the Meadow will be ready to cut before the grass that hath lost its head can put forth new, and by this means the hay of this Meadow, being threshed at time of the year, before it be foddered out, will both be sweeter to the cattle, and yield only the seed that is desired.   

How much Ground in England may be cured, that through the predomination of some quality in excess, will not sward again, or gather a good head of grass, for the first, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7 years, when laid down after Ploughing.  
THe exact cure is too tedious here to set down since it may be occasioned by the sterility, and that must first be helped by soil or the like; but for one general cure you shall only procure hay-seeds, which did grow on ground of the like kind but riclier, as upland to upland, lowland to lowland, etc. and therewith sow your ground, hot furrough and in a wet season in the full moon in January or February, the same Winter you lay it down, and suffer nothing to bite there till about the end of August after, and in the mean time roll it often and seasonably, and then mow it, and your cost shall be near repaid, and the ground restored.   

A Letter of a very ingenious Gentleman, Mr. R. H. concerning the Husbandry of Clover-grass.  
SIR,  
I Have not been insensible of the obligation which a former promise laid upon me, which was to give you an account of the proceed and profit which I made of a small quantity of ground by Clover grass, which I could not complete much sooner, in regard that it is not long since I sold the last of my seed, so that unless I should have set a suppository value, upon part of it, I could not draw the account to a perfect head till then; for every thing— tantum valet quantum vendi potest,— and prizes of all commodities ebb and flow. I will not injure this Husbandry so much, as to have you think that it can receive a true character from my experiment, for I must not be ashamed to own many errors committed therein, which were the effects of my general unskilfulness in Georgick, and was not easy to be prevented where there were no practical guides extant, nor any vestigia's thereof to be found, but what were tracked and discovered by the book thereof, first published by you, and you well know the difficulty of putting Theory well in practice. I have heard of some in England that have made almost an incredible profit of it, much more than I have been sensible of, but yet I find the improvement so considerable, that I am much encouraged to proceed in it; the particulars are as followeth. The ground I planted contained little above two acres, I sowed 15 pound of seed upon an acre, the charge I was at all manner of ways was five pound, which was more than repaid by that Summer's crop of Barley. The next year the 28. of May, I mowed the Clover, there was two loads upon it, for which I refused five pounds. The next crop I let stand for seed, which was ripe in August following when I cut it, and had three very great loads, which I reckon at nine pound, as that year went, I had 300 l. of seed some of which I sold for 16 d. the pound, some more, the whole profit of that year I cast to be 30 l. besides the after pasture. This last year in regard of the great and unusual unseasonableness of it, doth not equal the former profit, but take it at the worst as far as I have gone it is a great improvement, and though you were not the parent of this husbandry, yet you were the hand that did obstetricate and gave it birth which else had been strangled in a private hand, and the public never known this benefit, for which it is your debtor, and as a limb thereof,  
Your Friend and Servant, R. H.   

Another Letter showing the great benefit arising by Clover-grass to the Commonwealth in general.  
Worthy Sir,  
UPon Mr. Crutendens narrative to me of the wonderful success God gave him in the Clover-grass which he sowed, I desired him for your encouragement in such public endeavours to give me under his hand, a grateful testimony thereof unto you, from whose love and pains he took his directions, which he as readily did, as I do here willingly tender it unto you. The Gentleman's eminent piety and good husbandry are so well known in Kent near Tunbridge, that they command belief; and I think there are none that observe him in both or either, but they become his imitators or enviers. For mine own part from what he affirms and also many others in the family agreeing therein with him, and from what I saw with my own eyes, I am persuaded that the extraordinary improvement of Land by the use of the said Seed, is so very encouraging to the general use of it that through God's blessing within a few years, the land or ground belonging to this Commonwealth will maintain double the number of Cattle then now it doth, to your great profit in particular, if the Nation were thankful, and to the enriching of the Commonwealth in general, by the transportation of quick ware into foreign parts though now prohibited. The which blessing of God upon your unwearied labours in this kind, and upon the industry of the Husbandman especially, upon the labours of the spiritual Vinedressers the Godly Ministers of England that so the inhabitants thereof may have plenty here and glory hereafter, he most heartily prays, who is  
Sir, Your very loving friend and humble Servant, T. U. June 2, 1652.   

Mr. Crutendens Letter and Certificate.  
Noble Sir,  
UNderstanding by Mr. Vnderhil, that you were desirous to speak with me (I was much taken with it) that Providence should so much favour my wished desires: I have received direction from you concerning your own Observations, for this Husbandry in Brabant, and the adjacent parts, for which I have as truly as I could, ingeniously observed, and past by the practice of the Dutchmen, (which are in the County of Kent) wherein they differ very much from you, yet with much thankfulness, I am able (by the mercies of God) to give you as profitable an account as any Dutchman in England (that hath varied from your rule) that as yet, I ever heard of. The particulars I will give you an account of, whensoever you please to command me to wait on you, which is cordially desired by him, which hath trod some steps of your instructions, and gratefully resteth your servant to be commanded.   

The Certificate, june, 2. 1652.  
I sowed 4 acres, on which I sowed 40 l. of seed according to your directions, the Lord did send me from it 20 Bushels of Seed, and 12 loads of hay at twice mowing; the first crop I mowed was the 19 day of May last, and do find that one load of Clover hay, is worth two loads of the best of our other hay, and for the after pasture it was three times better than any ground I had; I am sure to speak within compass, my four Acres did yield me in one year, which was the last year fourscore pound.  
Hen. Cruttenden.   

A Letter from Upton 11 April, 1653. Concerning the Husbandry of clover-seed.  
SIR,  
Until now I could not be so throughly informed (by the party that writes the enclosed) what he hath found (in his several ways of practice) to be the best way and time for sowing this Clover-grass seed, and how, and where I might be furnished with the best and best cheap, which hath retarded this my thankful answer to your kind Letter, Mr. W. showed me some that he sowed last year thin, amongst other good English hay dust, upon bare rubbish earth (in North-hampton, where he had demolished some of the Bulwarks:) Which now is throughly covered and hath a full fresh bite of very rich green sward thus early; but I find the Clovergrasse seed would have Corn thicker, but that the other English ordinary hay-dust (being as he thinks more natural for our climate) doth choke the other, wherein I differ in opinion with him; for it's apparently higher and ranker, and over-spreads the other much. This Clover-seed was of his own growing, in a little piece of ground in his Orchard very good, which he mowed twice the last year, viz. about Midsummer, and about a fortnight after St. James that being sowed on the 6 th'. of April last before, and yet he did not cut it until it afforded seed both cuttings, and he believes the last cutting afforded rather more and better than the first, and that little (sowed of itself) is long enough (but that it is not ripe enough) to be mowed now. He believes the seed that is of his own, that comes of the Dutch seed, is altogether as good if not better than the Dutch seed, Mr. R. sowed some Dutch seed last year there, some in his garden, and about an acre or two with barley, upon a red sandy ground in his close by his garden, that was worn out of heart with bearing too many crops of Corn, and I viewed them both last week, and I found that sowed in his Garden to be throughly swarded, and was (as they told me) mowed the last year, and is now again in as forward a condition as Mr. W. sowed in his Garden: But that sowed with Barley is scarce so forward, as Mr. W. sowed with ordinary hay seed as aforesaid, and it comes not much thicker, and is in greater danger to be eaten out with Scutch grass, that such kind of ground (worn out of heart:) is apt to breed, so that upon consideration of the whole matter, I think the best way for me would be to sow it alone without Barley, in the beginning of this month, which cannot now be done this year, unless I had been provided of seed earlier; besides Mr. W. saith it will be hard to get good seed so late, especially new seed which is best to be had at Candlemas, and much cheaper than now, for he saith (when he was at London, which was a little before I was with you) new seed was risen from 8 d. the pound to 1 s. and before he came out of Town dearer; but when new was at 1 s. they offered him old seed for 6 d. and he is confident it may be had at half the price of new at any time. I send you in Mr. W's. Letter, some of the best kind of new seed, by which sample (if you be not skilled) you may know old from new.   

Sir Richard weston's more special directions for the best ordering of Clovergrasse.  
CLover-grass Seed thrives best when you sow it in the worst and barrenest ground. Such as our worst heath ground is in England.  
The ground is thus to be prepared for the Seed.  
First pair off the heath; then make the paring into little hills; you may put to one hill as much paring as comes off from a Rod or Pole of ground, which is the square of sixteen feet and a half.  
The hills being sufficiently made and prepared (as they do in Devonshiring as we call it) are to be fired and burnt into ashes. And unto the ashes of every hill you must put a peck of unslaked Lime; the Lime is to be covered over with the ashes, and so to stand till rain comes and slakes the Lime. After that mingle your ashes and lime together, and so spread it over your land.  
This done; either against, or shortly after rain, plough and sow; ploughing not above four inches deep and not in furrows, but as plain as you can, and to make yet plainer, harrow afterwards, and with bushes under your harrows.  
The ground being thus prepared you may sow your seeds. An Acre of ground will take about ten pounds of your Clover grasse-seed, which is in measure somewhat more than half a peck. The chief seasons of sowing it are April or the latter end of March.  
About the first of June it will be ready to be cut. It yields most excellent hay. The time of cutting it will be more exactly known, by observing when it begins to knot: For that is the time: And ere the year be done, it will yield you three of those crops, all of them very good hay; and after you have thus cut it the third time, you may then feed the ground with cattle, all the Winter as you do other ground.  
But if you intent to preserve Seed, then must you expect but two crops that year, and you must cut the first according to the foresaid directions. But the second growth must be let stand, till the Seed of it be come to a full and dead ripeness, and then must you cut it, and thresh the tops, and so preserve the Seed, you shall have at the least five bushels of Seed from every Acre.  
This Seed thus threshed off, there will be left long stalks, these your cattle will eat; but when they grow old and hard you are to boil those stalks, and make a mash of them, and it will be very nourishing, either for hogs or any thing that will eat thereof.  
After the second cutting for seed, you must cut it that year no more; but as it springs again, feed it with cattle. One Acre of it will feed you as many Cows, as six ordinary Acres, and you will find your Milk much richer; which induces some not to cut it at all, but only to graze it for their Dairy.  
Being once sowed, it will last five years, and then being ploughed, it will yield three or four years together, rich crops of Wheat, and after that a crop of Oats.  
And as the Oats begin to come up, then sow it with the Clover-seed (which is in itself excellent Manure) for that you need not bestow any new dressing upon the ground, and by that time you have cut your Oats, you will find a delicate grass grown up underneath, upon which if you please, you may graze with cattle or horse all that year after, and the next year take your crops as before at pleasure.   

Some Doubts and Queres concerning the aforesaid directions propounded in a Letter from Dublin.  
I Have dispersed that Paper (of Sir Ri. weston's Directions) you did me the favour to send me about the Husbandry of Clover, and I am to return you humble thanks for it, though there doth remain a very matterial scruple about it, which is:  
That if they sow it with the Barley or Oats, it must needs spring up and be ripe before the Barley, and consequently at the mowing of the Barley will either be mixed with it, so as not well to be separated, or must be trodden down and spoiled by it.  
This I being not able to answer must entreat you to take a little pains to satisfy me, and to communicate what you have experimentally been informed concerning it.  
I am to solicit you also in the name of some young Husbandmen and other Improvers here, to procure them a parcel of choice, good, new and excellent Clover-seed, who are resolved according as this takes, so to follow that Husbandry. As therefore the good success of this, will much encourage our young Undertakers, so if this Seed should prove bad and not thrive, it would as much discountenance all our new Projectors.   

The Doubts and Queres in the Letter from Dublin resolved.  
IN Answer to the Questions you● make concerning the sowing of Clover with other Corn, I can say that only, which my experience hath taught me, viz. That Polish Oats are the best Corn to be sown with Clover about the middle of April, two bushels and a half, or three bushels of Oats will be enough, which yielding a middle crop of Oats at harvest will shadow the Clover from the heat of the Sun, and leave the Clover (at the time of mowing) 2 or 3 inches high and no more, which will be a notable pasture in September or October following, and will (according to my experience) Winter 2 or 3 Sheep of an Acre. For the profit of the second Summer, and so forward. A Kentish-man (by name Sir Thomas Payton) gave me this relation of his own experience, viz. That (by cutting of it and feeding of cattle in racks under a tolle of trees) six Acres did maintain between the middle of April, and the middle of October, that is half a year) 13 Cows, 10 Oxen, 3 Horses, and 26 Hogs, which a● 12 d. a week for the Bullock or Horse, and 2 d. for a Hog, comes to above 30 s. a week, which is 40 l. for the 26 weeks, which is not less than 20 Nobles for the Summer profit of an acre, besides what it yields in the Winter, which is also considerable.  
Sir Rich. Weston, applies this Husbandry to the improvement of barren ground, but my experience and judgement are, that the best improvement is upon the best ground, nor is 10 s. or 15 s. an acre considerable to the certainty which rich land gives to an improvement that is so great in itself. The common practice also imploies this Husbandry by way of mowing of the Land; but my opinion is, and practice shall be to pasture it, which (instead of impoverishing the ground, as mowing by experience doth) will much better the ground by the abundance of stock which is continually kept upon it, upon the same reason, as foddering of land doth.  
Note also that the Clovergrasse is most excellent food for Bees.   

An Answer to more Queres concerning the Husbandry of Clovergrasse.  
Q. THe quality of the ground Clovergrasse delights in?  
A. Any light sandy or hazel-mould-land, is best to bear Clover, and though barren land will bear it, yet fresh and rich ground doth by experience return best profit.  
Q. The manner of preparing the ground?  
A. There cannot be too much cost in preparing the ground, and making it free from all manner of other grass.  
Q. The season and manner of sowing the seed?  
A. Clover is usually sown with Barley, Polish Oats, sometimes with Flax, or with any seeds that are sown in April. The best manner of sowing that I have been able to learn, is to mix it by quarters of pounds or less quantities, with such proportions of sand, as when all the parcels are put together, they may make two bushels and a half or tbree bushels, or any such proportion as fits an ordinary sowers hand, and thus it may be sown (like any other Corn) with a full hand, some (at the first) did use to sow 4 or 5 pounds upon an Acre, others have used to sow 10 pounds, and I shall (next Spring) sow more. It is usually about the spring-time, sold in London, for 12 or 14 d. the pound, but by the help of some Belgic Merchant, it may be had, thence for 6 d. the pound, or perhaps for less.  
Q. The best use of it for cattle?  
A. The best way (that I can learn) of feeding cattle with it, is to cut it and to give it them in the Racks, within some little grown or shady places, and a proportion of swine will grow very fat with what falls from the Racks. In this manner (as I am credibly informed) 6 acres did feed all this summer time, more Oxen, Milch-cows, Horses, and Hogs then (not being my own experience) I am willing to name.  
Q. The way of saving or getting it out?  
A. To this my experience reaches not, but in this I am fully satisfied; that our own seed is best and freest from cozenage. It lasts three or four, or more years in the ground, according as the ground is good, and (at first) well peopled with it: This is all that my experiences reacheth unto concerning Clover.   

Concerning the Threshing of Clover-seed.  
THe Clover-Seed, is a Seed very difficult to thrash; They Must be good Thrashers that can Thrash six Gallons in a day. The way used by a great Husbandman of Clover in Kent, is, first to Thrash off the heads which easily part, which being separated from the Straw, he used to Thrash over again until it seem all as chass or dust, which after he winnowed with a Fan as long as the dust flieth out. Amongst the dust there will remain some small heads unbroken, which he separated or Thrashed over again as before. I hope it will be no offence to give this public notice that one Mr. Stoughton, a Gentleman that lives in Norfolk, hath for many years since used the Husbandry of Clover-Grass, and hath an easy way by the help of a kind of Mil, to Shell the Husk from the Seed, whereby his Seed will not stand him in 2d. per Pound.   

An Extract of a Letter written from Dublin, May 16. 1654. concerning the Husbandry of Clover in Ireland.  
I Was at the charge for sending for a hundred weight of Clovergrasse seed, on purpose to encourage the chief of our friends here, to undertake the Husbandry of it, and when it came I sowed some in my own ground, some I sent to Col. J. some to Col. H. some to Capt. V. and to other Colonels and Officers of the Army. Lately I furnished some of it to two Gentlemen in the Country, that were excellent Husbandmen. And thus I dispersed it, giving away some parcels, and selling some other, and sowing the most part of it with others in Partnership. But though I used that care, I did it to procure good seed, and though I am as confident of Mr. M. my friend's care, who had it where you directed him, and stayed for it, while the Merchant told him he had new come over. Yet none of all these parcels I speak of, so much as came up, save one handful of it which sowed in my garden. And my friends here have sufficiently abused me for it. Pray Sir present my humble service to honest Sir C. Culpepper, when you write to him, and my thanks for his so free communications of his Clover-grasses husbandry.   

An Answer to the foregoing extract concerning the miscarriage of the Husbandry of Clover in Ireland.  
I Am sorry the Hushandry of Clover, hath received such a blast in Ireland, in its first essay, having observed how much more men are (ordinarily) ready, to judge of things, by the success of some one trial ill made, then to take the pains to weigh, and consider in which of the particulars which belong (more or fewer) to every action, there may have been some failing.  
One of the most ordinary ways of failing, which I have observed in this Husbandry is in the Seed, which comes to us sometimes two years old, old, and very seldom other then what is mixed, and this I know by dear experience of my own heretofore, and of a very near friends this last Spring.  
A second consideration, is the ground, which (for a general Rule) ought to be light and tending rather to the sand than clay.  
A third but very considerable Observation is, that the season be very clear and free of all other grass, or roots, and as fi●e worked, as if it were for a garden, which is a circumstance not more necessary, than it is little observed.  
A fourth Consideration (though not so general) if the drought of the Fumer, which hath (as I hear) spoilt much Clover this spring, and not less (I fear) then 20. acres of mine, if the ground have not helped me by its being proper and good. But if these particulars be well observed, I can (from my own and others experience) assure you, that it will (upon an easy account) double and treble the profit or rend of the Land; and that an acre (if managed by the Owner) will yield as much (to all intents) as 5 l. worth of other pasture. The greatest fault which I find in this Husbandry is, that if the ground be still cut or mowed, it will like Corn, impoverish the ground; for no man can eat his cake, and yet still have it; to prevent this great inconvenience, and to turn it to an advantage, myself intends to try how it will thrive, and what return it will make, being pastured. I have known already the experience of some who have this spring, (before there was any pasture elsewhere) kept 8 Sheep of an acre, which is double the proportion, which the best land in Rumney Marsh will bear; if this, upon trial, prove well, I cannot but think, that this way of pasturing of Clover, will be a kind of foddering of the land, and ●ather improve then impair it.   

An Extract of another Letter in reference to the foregoing Answer.  
PRay thank Sir C. C. heartily, for his accurate Animadversions upon Clovergrasse; upon consideration of which I am pretty well satisfied. We failed in the point of Husbandry and ordering the Land, sowing it somewhat rudely as is done with other grain. But though this was the failer, the discredit falls upon the Climate, so quickly are men's patiences tired, and so easily are their judgements abused, as Sir Ch. very well observes, being ready to suspect and accuse any thing, rather than our own error.   

More Extracts of Letters concerning French Seeds, of St. Foin, and Lucerne, Paris 23. Novemb. 1652.  
THe name of St. Foin is in some parts of France communicated to Lucern, although the generality thereof have appropriated the same to another kind of fodder, extremely differing from it all manner of ways, viz. the Onobrychis Antiquorum, wherewith Medica, (that is the true Latin name of Lucern) hath nothing common. When I find an opportunity, I shall send you some of the seed of each, according to their usual denominations here, the sight whereof and much more its planting, will soon convince all contradictors.   

Paris, Decemb. 21. 165●.  
I have delayed the sending of the seeds of St-Foin and Lucern, because I thought they were desired for sowing, to see what herbs they would produce, for which end they would have come time enough two or three months hence. But seeing that the sight of themselves is desired, you shall have them out of hand.   

More of Lucern, Paris, March 22. 1653.  
DR. H. told me, that a Merchant who dealeth much in Oranges, Lemons, and other Provence Wares, had told him, that within a few days he expected 10 or 12. mules loaden with those commodities, among which there would be good store of Lucern seed, and that of 3 several sorts, for so many there is, which I never knew before, and Dr. H. showed me Patterns of every one of them, having got them of the said Merchant. Therefore I wished him to send unto Sir C. not 25 l. of any one of them, we not knowing, nor able to learn here, which is the best sort, but 5 or 6 lib. of every sort, the which Sir C. having sown all, and seen them grow, he may consider which he liketh best, and have of that as much as he pleaseth the next year.   

The Answer.  
Of the 3 sorts of Lucern, mentioned in Dr. B. Letter of March 22. 1653. my desire is, to have of each sort, as much as will plentifully sow an English Acre, and rather more than less. I shall under correction of better experience, write my own apprehensions, concerning the quantity that serves for an Acre, viz. That of that Lucern seed, of which I received formerly a sample, 15 lib. if good, will sow an acre of the other 2. sorts of seeds, if bigger there must be so much more, if they be lesser seeds, there must be so much less or fewer pounds of each Kind. This still supposed, that the seeds be naked, and not, like St-Foin, closed in a cod; for in that case, there ought another consideration to be had of it.   

More Queries about Lucerne, and the Seed called Esparcet.  
I Am well acquainted with the Saint-Foyne Seed, which you received from Paris; but as for the Lucerne seed, I do upon sight of it conceive it to be no other than the Clover seed, that is commonly procured here from Flanders, being meliorated in France only by growing nearer the Sun. And therefore I heartily wish, that you friend could certify you of his certain knowledge of the Flanders Clover-seed, and of the different natures (if any) of those two seeds. But howsoever it prove, I should be very glad if by your friend's kindness I might by the first of April, or before, receive twenty pound weight of the Lucerne seed, such as is good, and of the last years growth.  
There is another French seed called Esparcet, and mentioned (by the Author of Theatre d' Agriculture) to grow usually about Die in Dauphin. I cannot conceive but that a seed of that excellency cannot, but (since that Author's writing) have spread itself the nearer to Paris.  
If by your Friend's favour I could have his knowledge of that seed, a pattern of it, and (if it be to be had) ten or fifteen pound weight of it by, or before April, you would much oblige me.   

The Answer.  
AS to the Qu. of Sir Ch. C. I know not the Flanders Clover, nor the seed of it, and so can tell nothing of its agreement or disagreement with Lucerne, whereof I will send the desired quantity, if it may be had, whereof I make some doubt; for some weeks since, to my knowledge, there was but one shop in Town that had any, which was the cause that the price was doubled, and from eight sols come to sixteen; and I doubt not but it hath been enhanced since, if any one be left.  
As for the Esparced, I could never yet meet with any here who could tell me what it was, it being long since that I have enquired after it for mine own curiosity, finding it spoke of in the Theatre d' Agriculture. But if I be not hugely mistaken, it is the selfsame with that which in these parts is known under the name of Saint-Foin, and whereof I sent you the seed lately with that of Luc●rne.  
 
P. S.  
What I told you out of my conjecture, that Esparced is the same with Saint-Foin, that I can now give you for a certain truth, Dr. H. having found it so by his Inquiries.   

The differences between Esparcet, and the other French Seeds.  
SErres in his Theatre d' Agriculture, hath a Chapter by itself concerning Saint-Foine, which (by the tenor of that Chapter) he seems to me to intimate to be the same with Lucerne. In the very next Chapter to that of Saint-Foine, he treats of this Esparcet in question, and by comparing of both Chapters there will be found these differences: Saint-Foine requires the best sort of ground, and is tender; but Esparcet is a very hearty herb, and grows very well in barren ground. Saint-Foine, by Serres, is mowable five or six times a year; but for Esparcet it will be mowed but thrice a year. Saint-Foine endures in the ground (upon once sowing) twelve or fifteen years; but Esparcet (by the next Chap.) endures but four years. Saint-Foin grows ordinarily in Languedoc, Provence, Dauphine, the Principality of Aurange, and in the region about those Provinces; but Esparcet is reported to grow only about Die in Dauphine.  
These several differences mentioned by Serres make me conceive that the seeds are not the same, and that if Esparcet, upon enquiry cannot be found at Die, it is lost either in deed, or at least in name since the time that Serres lived, which yet, of a thing so profitable, and once in practice, is hard to apprehend.   

The last Advertisements concerning Esparcet, and the other French Seeds.  
I Have sent to Calis by the Chassemarais a sack of Saint-Foine, containing two English bushels; and in the sack I have put three small canvas bags of three sorts of Lucorne, of Holland, of Flanders, and of Paris, but two pounds only of each sort, because I fear they are too old, and will not grow, and therefore I send them rather out of curiosity than otherwise, the price being not great. The new Lucerne seeds of Provence and Dauphine are not yet arrived, but daily expected, and so have been these three weeks. If they come time enough to be sent so as that they may be in England by the time your friend appoints, I will not fail to send what he demandeth. As for Esparcet, whereof Serres makes mention, and which Dalechamp saith is called Sparsse at Die in Dauphine, who puts both the description and the figure of it in the words Polygala and Onobrychis, I have enquired particularly of it, and they write to us from Die, that they have such a grass, but that 'tis mixed with divers other sorts of grass in their Saint-Foine, and that there be no particular seeds to be had of it alone. And I perceive by Renard the famous Gardener of the King's Garden of Simples, that of those sorts of grass specified in Dalechamp, under several names and figures, as Lucerne, Hedisaron, Polygala, Onobrychis, are all but several parts of Medica or Saint-Foine, and that their seeds are not to be found distinctly separate one from another. If any man would be so curious, he might sow them all together, as they are to be had under the titles of Lucerne or Tresle, and gather the seeds of them distinctly according as he shall find their divers shapes correspondent to their several figures in Dalechamps or Clusius.   

A Letter of Dr. J. S. relating the Husbandry of the French Tares or Fetches.  
SIR,  
IN my voyage from Paris to Rouen, I observed divers fields, as I thought, of the herb called Aphaca vicia, or Tares and Fetches, and in them horses feeding, but not at random, being by the means of a rope allotted only a certain space some four yards about; and this space was thought sufficient for one horse in one day. But being in the Coach in company with a Gentleman of the Country, who understood something in Husbandry, I made these following Inquiries.  
1. What it was called?  
A. Was, Lafoy Romagne.  
2. If every year sown?  
A. It was, but if it was not, it would not cease to come▪ though not in such abundance.  
3. How often mown?  
A. Not but once, not that it might not be oftener moven, but because being green, and so eaten off the field, the cattle fattened on it, they were willing it should be so to spare their hay. He said likewise, that it was of so quick growth, that one furrow but of a competent length, was sufficient, and more for one horse all grass time over, which he accounted from April to the latter end of August, and then being spared for a time, it might be mown and kept dry, and given in the Winter to Horse, Oxen, and Sheep, either alone or mixed with other fodder. I asked how that a horse eating on one furrow always could be ever a fresh supplied. He said, that every day he was to be carefully changed, and that beginning at one end of the furrow, and so going on to its middle; then he was to be shifted to the other end of the furrow, and in like manner to proceed till he come where he had left before, and by that time the first end, where he first begun, would be sufficiently grown, and so as he had eaten it before gradatim, so he found it again growing gradatim, and so good pasture again. Moreover I inquired, what difference he made of the profit the Lucerne brought (for he knew it well) and that of La Romagna? He answered, that the Lucerne certainly went beyond this, but that they used the one and the other, according to the nature of their ground, besides that that ground, which was allotted to the Lucerne, should be for many years; for once having got root, it was not so easily eradicate, and so not fit for any other use, but that the field of La Romagna might be changed, according to pleasure, besides the ground which was fit or La Lucerne, was not for La Roman, & è contrà▪ For Lucern required more humid places, and La Romagne more dry.  
This is the substance of what I remember passed betwixt that Gentleman and me, which how true it is I dare not promise because having it, but from one hand, and that a stranger to me; but thus much I remember, that some Yorkshire men in the Army in England, were more glad to find a field of Fetches to feed their horses on, then if they had found both Hay and Oats, and that they have often to my seeing left excellent grass to seek after these Fetches.  
Sir, I think it will not be amiss in the further inquiry of this, to see the affinity between the Vicia or Aphaca, the Lens, and the Ervum, for all of them according to Dioscor. have that fattening quality, and truly I cannot well tell, which of these certainly is La Romayn, though I incline to think that it is the Vicia or Aphaca; for being in a Coach, I was too negligent to go out and remark it more narrowly, but may be easily known of any whom you may inquire of. Thus I pray God to bless you in all your noble endeavours, and so I shall continue to pray,  
Sir, Your most devoted to serve you.   

An Observation upon the Husbandry of the French Tares or Fetches.  
THe Further herb, about which you have communicated unto me, Dr. S. notable observation, is certainly the Vicia or Fetches, the which I have seen cultivated in divers parts of France and of Holland. But it was never my luck yet, to learn any particulars about the properties and use thereof. If I do at any time hereafter, you shall be sure to hear of it. Having written thus far, I am told by divers, that the Vicia or fetches are sown for to give the dried grain of it to horses, in the same manner as Beans, but that they never knew the green herbs to be used for them, or any other cattle in the nature of fodder.   

Another Letter relating the Braband Husbandry of Spurry-seed.  
SIR,  
THe Spurry-seed which you have gotten out of the Low-Countries, grew no doubt in light ground. And accordingly, if it were mine, it should again be sown in the lightest ground I had. Though for trials sake I might perhaps bestow a handful or two upon every sort of ground near me.  
The times of sowing it are twice in a Summer. The first time is not very early. I should not adventure to sow Dutch seed in England before the middle of May; least, being a stranger, it should take it unkindly to meet with cold May mornings, and discourage me. In June and July it will be in flower; and in August the seed is usually ripe.  
The second time of sowing is after Rie-harvest; when the Brabant-husbandman presently ploughs up his ground and sows it with Spurry-seed, that it may grow up and serve his Kine, after all late-grasse, and Rowens be eaten up, even till New-year's day. So that this latter sowing yields no seed, but is eaten up green; and the provision for seed is made by the former sowing.  
It will be good in this first trial, to sow it in several parts of the same ground in different proportions, and to mark which thrives best: As also in the same ground, and with the same proportion of seed, to try what difference of increase there is, between the seed newly thresht out and thrown into new ploughed ground, and that seed which is at the same time a year old.  
It is ordinary in Brabant to sell away their May-butter, and to make their Winter-provision for themselves, and their more knowing customers, in the end of the year. For many of them prefer Spurry-seed before May-butter. I suppose the principal reason is, because it is not so apt to grow rank with that Summer heat, which May-butter must endure in June, July and August.  
I have known some Brabant Husbandmen sow Tolls, that is, small round Turnips among their Spurry, in the latter seedtime, as being also good to increase the milk in their Kine.  
Some Brabant women give Spurry to their Hens, that will catch it from one another, as they do Chick-weed. They believe that it makes them lay the more Eggs.  
Spurry is by some esteemed a sure remedy for a cut or green wound, if it be bruised green and laid to the cut, etc. In Latin its called Spergula.  

The Description of the Hop Clover, or Trefoil, in English Three Leaved Grass.  
THis Three Leaved Grass will grow half a yard in length or more, and at every two Inches, it hath a knot with Leaves and a Bunch of Seed, which is black, almost like Onion Seed; both the Grass and the Hay made thereof, is finer and sweeter than the great Clover. It will grow in any Ground, and being once planted, it will shed so much Seed, that it need never be planted again. It may be sown with Corn, or without, as they do the great Clover; or being sprinkled in Meadows, it will exceedingly mend the Hay, both in burden and goodness.  
Such as are desirous to buy any of this Three Leaved Grass, or Lucern, Spurry, Clovergrasse and Sinkfoile Seeds, what quantity they please may have them at Thomas Brown 's Shop at the Red Lion in Soper-lane, where they may likewise see some of the Hay made of this three Leaved Grass.    

Of the long English grass in Wiltshire.  
THe long grass in Wiltshire mentioned in the Legacy, is occasioned by reason of a spacious Sheep-Common adjoining. For that every hasty shower washeth off the Soil of the Common, and bringeth it into a little Meadow beneath, which maketh it incredibly fruitful.   

Some Physical uses of Milk, and of curing the Black Jaundice, etc.  
I Thought to have imparted unto you the Secret how to preserve Milk from souring, but I must refer it to a person of singular Honour, Piety, and Experimental learning, who had made some trial of it, but hath not yet fully satisfied his mind about it. When that is done, I know you will have it before any other, the Gentleman being wholly devoted not only by this, but many other very Noble and useful Experiments, to promote the good of Mankind.  
As for Doctor Ziegler's German Book, written purposely on the subject of Milk, when I visited him at Zurich he showed it me, not fair written for the Press. It will not be great, unless he resolve to an much of his own experience. For he tells me, that being miserably infected with the Black-Jaundies in Prussia, and having been purged by the Physicians of that Country, with above 30 several sorts of purgations, even the most viblent that they could think of, he found himself never the better. Whereupon he resolved to take no more of their counsel, but to try some conclusions of his own. And with the sole use of Milk he was perfectly cured. Besides he tells me that he hath several times, finding himself in some indisposition, prevented the returning of some hereditary diseases in himself, by abstaining from all manner of meat and drink, and living upon mere Milk, sometime; for fourteen days together. And I remember heretofore I have heard him say, that Milk is hurtful with other meats, but alone it is of unknown virtue. How much of this and the like, he will say in his Book, I know not. Some other things he said at the same time, which I meant to have added here, but I must defer them at present.   

Observations concerning Oils.  
I Gave Dr. Zeigler occasion to show me Balsamum Samaritanum, as he called it. He seemed to say, that Paeracelsus first gave it that name, in memory of the Samaritan in the Parable, Luke 10.33. For this Balsam, he said, was made of mere Oil and Wine boiled together, without any other ingredient. But, said he, whosoever shall go about to boil them together shall find it troublesome, if he never saw any practice of that kind before. I told him, that some Atheistical heads say, that Luke might be a good Physician, but he was but a bad Chirurgeon, if he knew not that Oil must not be put into wounds. The Doctor answered, that the Objectors were no great Surgeons, if they did not know, that Oil was hurtful only in those wounds that reached to some bone; for then the Oil would make the bones cariosa. But said he, if such a thing happen, caries ossium may be cured by Chemical salts.  
From this I gave him occasion to speak further concerning Oil. He told me, that when he was in Italy, he understood that some families there were wont to preserve Oil from Generation to Geneaation, and to divide it equally amongst the children, or nearest kinsmen of the deceased. He had spoken with one Italian Gentleman, that said he had about two ounces of Oil that was three hundred years old.  
I asked him, what serious use there was of such old Oil, besides the vanity of boasting of such Antiquities? He said, that new Oil hath a saltness in it, which makes it unfit for many uses; but time destroys that saltness, and makes it able to perform such offects as some of the Ancients have reported of it. They say, that divers who were esteemed dead, have been anointed with old Oil in the five principal pulse-places, and revived. And, said he, I am apt to think that the Extreme Unction, now adays applied to men at the last gasp, had its first rise from that Experiment; for I would thank any man that could tell me what kind of Oil it was that is mentioned James 5.14. An Apothechary of Milan proffered to sell me Oil, which he said was fifty years old: but I bought none of him, partly for the greatness of the price that he demanded, and partly for the uncertainty whether it were indeed so old as he pretended.   

How to make better Butter than ordinary without setting the Milk for Cream.  
THe Milk so soon as it is come from the Cow must be strained, then churned as usually Cream is done. Also the Cheese made of the Buttor-milk will be better than the best two meal Cheeses that you ever did eat. And one pound of this Butter shall be worth a pound and a half of your best Butter which is made of Cream. Probatum by a Gentlewoman, a great Huswise, dwelling in the Isle of Ely.   

Of Chedder Cheeses where they are made?  
THe Legacy of Husbandry mentioneth the best Cheese to be made at Chedder▪ in Wiltshire; I suppose it may be a mistake, except there be two Chedders. For Chedder is a place in Sommertshire, between Mendip hills and Axbridge. I suppose it is bet one Parish, or not much more, and that a great part of it is a Moor called Chedder Moor. I have been at Mendip Hils and seen this Chedder lying much lower, & was told that the best Cheese in Engl. was made there, and that it was sold there at six pence a pound, that usually they made great Cheeses, from twenty pound to a hunnred and twenty pound in weight, and that it was usual when one made a Cheese to borrow all the Milk of his neighbours about him, and that some did borrow as much milk in one day as they were a month in paying back again.   

Objections answered against Propositions of Improvement by Agriculture, and other the Branches of good Husbandry.  
THat if this Art, Trade, or Profession of Husbandry were indeed so beneficial, so profitable as many pretend, why then are there not more Rich men of that sort? And why do so many Farmers or Tenants in this Nation live so poorly and beggarly that they seem rather the Landlord's slaves or servants than tenants, since all they get, saving their own very mean subsistence, goes to the paying of their rent?  
To this it's answered: First, that that the position is in its self a mistake, there being more that manage these rural affairs Rich, than of any sort of people or profession in the Nation besides by far.  
Secondly: It's affirmed, that the most noble Families in the Nation have been either raised or upheld by the Plough, etc. For it is observable, that nothing more enables a Person or Nation than Hospitality; this, for all that, becomes the bain, the destruction of many great Families, when the bountiful hand is alone, but when the one is as industrious by these very ways of good Husbandry, to provide or bring in as the other is to give or let out, that man only is the good Houskeeper, that man only is the constant Friend to the poor and his neighbours, that man only is the wise. Be, that knows how to gather, and give the honey without defacing the fair flower of his estate, which he always leaves to his posterity well increased, whereas the other seldom dies undestroyed.  
Thirdly: It's affirmed, that there are at this time very many Graziers, Sheep-masters, and Corn-masters in this Na●ion of very vast estates, and those accrued in their own times by their own endeavours in these ways of good husbandry.  
Fourthly: Suppose it were not so, as it's granted in the more common and general account it is not, yet the fault is not in the Profession but in the Practice and Persons? for the more common, mean, and vulgar sort of Tenants or Husbandmen improperly so called, have only some general, rude, imperfect, and (in many cases) much irrational Rules, or Customs rather, which their as ignorant Forefathers left them, from which they can no more be weaned than a dull sturdy Ass can be gotten to mend his pace. And they are generally so averse to all new practices, that it is found merely impossible to infuse any such thing into their heads or hands by any other means more than one manifest example, and that under their noses too.  
Amongst their irrational Customs, I reckon that of bandying with the Lord, though never so just and ingenuous, about enclosing their Commons (the Freeholder and Coppy-holder I mean) choosing rather to keep three starved Sheep than one good Milch-cow, which the same land enclosed would in all probability do.  
Also their opening their fields at Lammas, or some other certain time, which as some years proceed, causes the loss of much Corn; not to them only but to the Commonwealth, since if any man have (by an unforeseen, or not to be remedied cause) his Corn out later a little, he is forced to fetch it in ripe or unripe, wet, or dry, lest the known greediness of the neighbourhood put in their Cattle, and eat it up before his face.  
Also their old Proverb (in in itself wise and good, but as they understand and use it, most prejudicial) A little land well tilled. For though it be an undoubted truth that one Acre worth twenty pound, all charges defrayed, is better than three or four worth five pound all charges defrayed; yet it is as true, that if my necessary expenses require threescore pounds per annum, and I hold threescore Acres, worth twenty pound each clear, I have gained no more but my bare subsistence, and have nothing to lay up for posterity, no nor to stop a gap with (which yet often happens) and being not stopped, makes others stoop to beggary, whereas had I ventured (as they will needs call it) upon an hundred and twenty Acres, I had had threescore pounds to stop gaps, and lay up for posterity; and farther if this should be rightly cast up by a rule of Progression, it would easily appear, that threescore pound driven on again, and each year augmented, would in a man's life rise to a plentiful fortune for his posterity, and after a while afford him some better way, or rate of subsistence also. What should a man say but conclude with the Proverb, He that is born under a three penny Planet shall never be worth a groat.  
If it be answered, that much Land is barren, or uncertain; and the more one deals with, if the year proceeds evil, the greater his loss, the more certain and desperate his undoing. 'Tis answered, That to a good Husband this so rarely happens, and he by the means aforesaid, and other good ways, is so prepared, that it perhaps may hinder his going forward for that year, but shall not pluck him back at all.  
And here also is the stubbornness of these men's natures discovered, that when most rational approved good Inventions or Ways to make their barren or uncertain land bear good crops to prevent or cure the Rot amongst their Sheep, or Murrain amongst their cattle, they utterly refuse the motion, deride the Movers and Inventors, and (as much as in them lies) endeavour to retard or poison the practice, lest their fordid ignorance and wicked envy should be theteby discovered or prevented.  
Certainly he that (having any considerable stock to begin with) doth first carefully inform himself, and consider what, where and how to proceed; and shall do so cheerfully, and throw himself upon God's abundant power, wisdom, mercy, and providence for the success, cannot fail to be as rich as a good man will desire to be; and he that withstands or refuses so to do, I can liken him to nothing more properly than to the dog in the manger, that eats not hay himself, nor lets the horse that would.  
I am sure that the most rich men the Scripture tells us of, were of this sort (that were instrumental to their own greatness, and not born so) witness the histories of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Lot, Job good men, or of Nabal, or the Rich man in the Gospel, that hath his barns full, and goods laid up for many years.  
And profane story tell the same, that Jupiter for his invention and practice in husbandry, was honoured as a God; that Cyrus and Tamberlane were Shepherds, etc.   

An approved Experiment for the cure of the Fashions in Horses, and the Rot in Sheep.  
A Gentleman of note an Englishman had a strange felicity in curing of Horses of the most desperate diseases, as also Sheep strangely, suddenly and perfectly, by which he was much enriched and admired.  
And it was with no other thing, but the use of the Antimony-cup steeped in Ale with a little spice they call Grains, and a little Sugar, of which he would give them only such a quantity as would not much weaken them, and so give it two or three times, with perhaps a day or two day's intermission. To horses he would administer half a pint at a time; to Sheep not above two or three, or at most four Ounces; by which he hath in a short time cured the Fashions in horses and the rot in sheep. Indeed Antimony is so great a restorer of the Liver, or so great a purifier or refiner of the mass of blood, that I myself have known many recovered of the Dropsy, and other desperate diseases by the use of it. The same Gentleman used also the same infusion to wash all sores that were broken out upon them, which also conduced much to the healing them. He used it also to Swine.  
Note. The Antimony-cup is no other than a pure ordinary Regulus Antimonii, cast into the form of a Cup hath no other virtues nor effects, than the foresaid Regulus: For this Regulus lying in any liquor doth the same which the Cupholding liquor in all respects. So much of this Regulus as may serve your turn may be bought for two shillings, or half a crown.   

Another approved Experiment for fatting of Hogs, and preserving or curing of them from Meazeals or other Diseases.  
IF a Hog that is to be fatted, have half a dram of crude Antimony given him in his meat three days before he be put up to fat, it will make him have a good stomach to his meat, and therefore he will soon be fat, and it will likewise cure him of all foulness of his Liver, and of the Meazels, which are very frequent in Hogs. The same is as sovereign for any other beasts.   

Another excellent Remedy against the Rot, and other diseases in Sheep and Horses.  
TAke Serpents, or (which is better) Vipers, cut their heads and tails off, and dry the rest to powder. Mingle this powder with salt, and give a few grains of it so mingled now and then to your Horses and Sheep; it is good against most diseases in them, and chiefly against the fat Rot.   

Whether a good Lime may be made of Pibble and other Stones, whereby Land may be dunged and enriched.  
YOu say your great friend the Doctor in Chemical Physic hath a way not only to turn the ordinary Lime-stones into Lime whereby Land may be dunged and enriched, but also Pebble and all other stones into Lime at an easy charge, and so every Country that hath not the natural Limestone may have it now out of other stone, and so save carriage.  
To this I answer.  
A. 1. What Glauber hath written in his first Part Operis Mineralis of Pebble or Flint-stones is to show how to extract out of them not quick or unslackt Lime but Gold, and that by the mediation of spirit of Salt, which must be made first good cheap, and in abundance. What your Doctor undertakes must be left to trial whether it will succeed or not.  
A. 2. I believe the Doctor, who pretends to make Lime of Pebble may make his undertaking good, seeing that in Holland, in Italy, and in many parts of the East-Indies, they make it of the shells of Oysters, and of all kinds of Shellfish, and that ex silice ipso (out of Pebble itself) Lime hath been made many Ages since, as Pliny and Agricola tell us. But I know not whether the Doctor be aware of the inconvenients which the Flint-Lime is subject unto, viz. that it is nothing so good as other Lime, and that in the burning of it, great part of the Flint, instead of being converted into Lime, turneth into a kind of glassy slack.   

The manner of Planting Timber-trees in Cornwell.  
I Have observed a sort of Husbandry in Cornwall, which I like exceedingly. Namely, that upon their Mounds or Fences (which are high and thick banks almost like Fortifications) they do set or sow Oak, or some other wood, which thriveth so well, that I have seen the Wood growing upon one fence, that parted two Closes to be worth four or five pound. This kind of Fence doth much preserve the Land from Malignant Airs, and is withal more than three times profitable beyond what that same Land the bank stands on would yield, if the banks were taken away. The best reason to be given for the well growing of this wood, is the mixture of earth and great stones, whereof the bank is made, amongst which the Roots take so firm hold, that no violence of weather can hurt them, and by the same reason the roots are safe from the prejudice which other Trees receive by the sudden and unnatural suffering by heat, cold, moisture, or drought.   

How to hasten the growth of Timber-trees.  
WHen any young Trees, as Oak, Birch, Elm, Ash, etc. (but Ash especially) are in their bodies about two inches diameter, which they (oftimes) be at three or four years' growth, then if you take a piece of an old coat of Male, or some like Net of small wire, and holding it in your palm, rub it pretty hard (so as you tear not the bark) up and down the body of the Tree, twice every year, you shall find that Tree far to outstrip his fellows of the same age and kind. If you ask the reason, let the example of friction or seasonable rubbing or dressing in a horse or other cattle be considered, which sooner be fat and fair, and that with less provender than the like horse ill kept.  
Note. That one man may well look to three thousand, and do much other business, which is not above an half penny a year a piece, but the Tree shall be bettered in its growth at least rwo pence a year.  
As for those kind of Trees called Flanders Ashes, whereof some young ones were sent for, and planted in the drained Fens of Lincolnshire by Dutchmen, I have it only by relation, but from able men, that the charge was three shillings a Tree, and that they grew so fast, that at three years' growth they were worth twenty shillings a piece for Timber. Doctor H. spoke of an Apple called the Gennet-moyle, that makes the best Cider, that every slip of the Tree will grow; that the Trees are great bearers, and the slips will grow to bear fruit in three years.   

Of Turky-Beans to be more frequently planted.  
THere is a sort of Beans (which grows in many parts of England, namely in the Isle of Exholm in Lincolnshire) that are called Turky-beans, very large and yielding a great increase, to be eaten with a little butter and vineager (after they are boiled) shells and all, they are ripe about July, or later if you please, and will come seasonably to succeed our Hasting-pease, and if more frequently planted might be afforded cheap.   

A Friendly Advice how a hundred and and fifty pound may be improved by Husbandry to yield a far greater increase than if the said sum were employed in a way of Usury upon Usury.  
IN answer to your Question (viz.) how a Friend of yours might dispose of a hundred and fifty pound (or any other sum) to the best advantage, I humbly tender you my opinion (thus) that sum may be turned and returned continually to no small advantage very many ways, I will only instance four (viz.) by Sowing or Ploughing of Corn, Flax, Rape, or by breeding or feeding of cattle, any of these will (almost) double the sum every year. For example, a hundred and fifty pound will plant (I mean in the most excellent way, and consider also the dearness of the present time) about forty Acres with Wheat, which (by the ordinary blessing of God) cannot be less worth than eight pound one Acre with another, which in all amounts to three hundred and twenty pound; which again the next year according to the like account will advance itself to six hundred and forty pounds, that is to say, it will plant eighty Acres worth eight pound a piece at Harvest. And from thence forward, if you deduct one hundred pounds yearly, for an increase of present maintenance. Yet your stock will increase far more than by Interest upon Interest, which is also nothing so just or ingenious a way of getting. And if you say your friend is not a man addicted to, or experienced in these ways of Husbandry, or of such employments otherwise, as will not allow him to act in this way himself, give me leave to say he may do it, by the assistance of some faithful friend (which is not impossible for you to find, or make by those abundant obligations you use to lay upon all men) such a friend as is skilful and active in these most pleasant and honest ways. To turn the same stock in Cattle will amount to near the same profit, but either of the other (viz.) to sow Flax or Rape, will be yet much more profitable, and increase your present Revenue and Stock also faster.  
Sir, I humbly advise your Friend to take some one of these ways by the help of such a Friend, which shall never want the best furtherance I can give it, which is my earnest prayers for an extraordinary blessing upon such honest endeavours, which will in a few years (and that in a way most pleasing to God, and approved of good men) make a very competent provision for himself, and his living, and leave a considerable estate to those that succeed.   

Another friendly and more particular Advice how by a good husbandry of Rape-seed to raise an Estate, or provide Portions for Children.  
A Last of Rape-seed is ten Quarters or eighty Bushels, and three shillings is the ordinary price of a bushel.  
One Acre is sowed with half a peck sufficiently, and will yield replanted, according to the goodness of the ground and seasonableness of the year 
* The season when to begin this work is presently after Midsummer. , 40 l. 30 l. 20 l. and at the least 10 l. per acre.  
The whole charge to sow an Acre, and all things thereto belonging first and last will stand in three pound Rent and all (for the Rot amongst the Sheep, and Murrain amongst Cattle, must needs make Land cheaper.)  
If therefore there were found a hundred men of indifferent quality, that would disburse each man ten pound sterling, 
If 100 men be not found that will undertake or engage, fewer will serve, so they either engage 20 l. or 30 l. for 2 or 3 children, or at least for the first or second year allow the Steward more than is here accounted.  and commit all their stocks into one hand to be managed by that person (as one that is known to be skilful, and so able to undertake and pass through the work) for the raising of a portion for their child, or children respectively, they would find this advantage thereby (viz.) They should only spare the said ten pound for the two first years and no more, at the end whereof it should be returned, and so they have given that child no other portion point-blank more than the use of ten pound for two years, which is but two and thirty shillings.  
2. They should be at no charge to keep or maintain the same child save only the first two years, for at the end of the third year they should receive competent maintenance for the same year, and so continue, or increase the same so long as the grand stock is suffered to lie in the Steward's hands, which is to be understood that during the first seven years the Steward cannot give it up but by consent of the owner, but after that he may ease himself of the burden when it grows too heavy, as he shall see cause.  
3. He will have a most plentiful provision for his child, without any trouble to himself, or at all diverting his intentions, by only allowing the Steward one tenth part from time to time, as the reward of his care, skill, pains, and expense of his time, which must be chiefly dedicated to this service.  
And here I present it more lively to your view in the following Table.  
Years. Acres. Charge. Increase. 1 3 9 30 2 6 18 60 3 9 27 90 4 18 54 180 5 42 126 420 6 102 306 1020 7 291 582 2910 For all 29100 58200 291000 Deductions for the Poor. Maintenance of your child. Return of your first sum. Remains. 3 7 0 20 6 14 10 30 9 21 00 60 18 22 00 140 42 38 00 340 102 48 00 970 291 59 00 2560 29100 5900 00 256000  
By this time you may perceive that the Steward did the last year manage 29100 Acres, which is full enough, and therefore he cannot well go further this way.  
By this time you may perceive, that every Engager hath benefited the poor 471 l. and by all together, the poor are relieved with 47100 l. A blessed deed it is, and your reward follows it close at the heels, for all your children are made richer by 256000 l. and every particular child hath a portion raised of 2560 l. and all parties are well contented, since your Steward also must acknowledge himself well paid: Insomuch that if any his good Masters shall desire to have all, o● part of the said stocks longer to remain in his hands for a farther improvement; he will surely be willing to advance them in other ways to the best advantage: And by this means also some thousands of working poor are provided for.   

A Scale of the Charges of the Table formerly presented, with the Scale of some other Tables to demonstrate that advantageous Proposition.  
SIR,  
WHereas in the paper I presented to you yesterday, I have in a Table been bold to set down what I know to be very true, and as certain as most ordinary humane affairs, yet in regard I know also that the spirits of too many men (in this Age especially) are not only backward to attempt or encourage good actions, but are even ready to catch hold of any critical argument whereby they suppose they can blast an honest, rational, and advantageous Proposition, I thought it necessary to prevent all disputes of that nature by adding the following Table, and the Scales of Charge, by which either that or this is to be measured: And first the Scale of the Table formerly presented.  
Rend for one Acre 
00.13.04  Seed half a peck 
00.00.06  First ploughing 
00.02.06  Burning 
00.05.00  Seed ploughing 
00.03.04  Replanting and taking up 
00.16.00  Re-ploughing 
00.03.04  Cutting and thrashing 
00.13.00  Fencing 
00.07.00   
03.00.00   

The Scale of the second table, the charge of one Acre.  Rent 
00.13.04  Seed half a peck 
00.00.06  First ploughing 
00.02.06  Burning 
00.05.00  Seed ploughing 
00.03.04  Cutting and Thrashing 
00.12.04  Fencing 
00.03.00   
02.00.00   

The second table now presented, accounting but five pound per Acre the Crop.  Years. Acres. Increase. 1 4 & a half 22 l. 10 s. 2 10 50 3 18 60 4 36 210 5 81 405 6 155 775 7 304 1220 Deducted for the Poor. Maintenance Remainder. 00 00 22 l. 10 s. 00 00 40 and the 10 l. paid 09 10 80 21 19 180 40 20 345 77 23 675 122 28 1070 26000 10000 347000  
By this it appears that (valuing the Crop but at 5 l. per Acre, which no man can except against) each man will have his 10 l. repaid at the end of the second year, and will out of only 16 s. stock raise for his child a portion of 1000 l. and upwards, and for the relief of the Poor about 260 l and for the present maintenance of his child (after the two first, and until the end of the seventh, 100 l.  
And if men would but be sensible how certain (or at least probable) it is that the first scale of charge will produce the return of 10 l. per acre, per annum, than men need venture their 10 l. but till the end of the first year only, when it should be returned, and yet their stock run up to the proportion discovered in the next Table, and also both the poor and their children receive good maintenance the second Year.  

The Third Table, valuing the crop at 10 l. per Acre.  Years. Acres. Increase. 1 3 30 2 6 26 3 12 100 4 27 270 5 43 430 6 111 1110 7 294 2940 Deducted for the Poor. For the Child. Remains. 0 00 20. And the 10 l. Returned. 6 14 40 12 18 90 27 13 240 43 17 370 111 19 980 294 26 2620 49300 10700   
By this it appears, that by only sparing 10 l. and that but for one year, you have purchased or provided for your Child as his Portion or Estate 2620 l. and for his present maintenance (after the first year, that is to say, for the other six by unequal proportions) 107 l. and the Poor are bettered by all this in the seven years by 493 l. from every particular Interest, and by the whole Stewardship, or hundred persons or stocks by 49300 l. And all this is done in seven years, which any man may reasonably hope (by the blessing of God) that he may live to see it effected.  
If any man ask why this great advance here held forth is not followed hardly by any one man living? The answer is not far off (viz.) Few men do understand these ways, fewer will give themselves leave to cast up their accounts for the future, or take care to put their endeavours for gain into so honest a method: For indeed (in a manner) all men are from their youth brought up either in idleness and vanity, and by that means are utterly careless of all ways to thrive, and of the honestest most; or if they be brought up to business, they are so sixth before they come to a ripe understanding (such as is able to distinguish and choose) that they neither will, nor well can wind themselves out of their present Employment or former Engagements. And indeed men are too generally possessed with a too sturdy dislike of any thing how excellent soever, that is out of their common path, and by so much their dislike thereto also increased by how much those courses propounded incline more to virtue.  
But if all such dispersed spoaks and valleys were fixed in one Centre (viz.) a faithful, careful, skilful Steward) it might make such a wheel as would be ever turning round in the right achievement of an (even almost) infinite and endless prosperity.  
Farewell.   

A Proposition concerning Rape-seed, wherein the charge is set down with the most, the return with the least, but both in the common way.  
ONe Acre of Marsh land fit for Rape 
l. s. d.  may be taken for 
00.13.04.  May be ploughed the first time for 
00.03.04.  May be burned for 
00.06.08  Will be sowed with half a peck of seed worth 
00.00.09  May be ploughed the second time for feeding for 
00.04.08  May be fenced for 
00.04.03  May be reaped for 
00.10.00  May be thrashed for 
00.07.00  The whole charge of an Acre is 
02.10.00   
If God please to send but the ordinary blessing upon this, there cannot be less than five Quarters; but it is not unusual to have six, seven, eight, nine, or sometimes ten Quarters upon one Acre.  
One Quarter of good Rape seed is worth always, and at least four and twenty shillings, and so the least return of one Acre, five Quarters is worth 
l. s. d. 06.00.00  The Straw may be worth, though it be but to burn, 
00.03.04  The whole profit is 
06.03.04  From this deduct the charge 
02.10.00  There remains as clearly gained 
03.13.04   
Whosoever engages twelve pound, gains 
14.13.04  Whosoever engages four and twenty, gains 
29.06.08  Whosoever engages thirty, gains 
36.13.04  Whosoever engages threescore, gains 
73.06.08  Whosoever engages a hundred, gains 
124.13.04   
It appears that he that engageth deepest hath the advantage, and that all men's moneys is more than doubled, and all this in the common way, which I shall endeavour to make much better by the blessing of God.  
If any ask why an Engagement of twelve pound in stead of ten is desired, it is for the reward or subsistence of the Steward of the work, who after the first year, and when engagements are become deeper will accept one tenth part in the beginning of each year, of the stock for his charges and pains, and at the end of the year one tenth part of the Increase for the reward of his care and skill, or come to a certainty of profit to the Engager, and himself have no other reward but the over plus when they are satisfied, be it more or less, as God shall bless his endeavours. If any man doubt of the truth of this, let him resolve himself by a free and ingenious enquiry of such as have dealt in this commodity.   

A Proposition for sowing of Hemp, whereby also a way is shown to set most of the present Poor to work without prejudice or oppression, or altering any Law already established.  
FOr the more general sorts of Poor, I humbly conceive that what followeth may be a good way, and open to them a door of subsistence, without wrong or loss either of wealth or freedom to any subject of England, since in it all things are to be done in love and order; the Rich invited by the Profit, and the poor coming in as to a safe harbour, where he may rest secure under the Lee of this opportunity from the dangerous working of those many and strong tentations their poverty is accompanied with, and from the danger of the severe prosecution of the known Laws against Idleness, which will become altogether good, if all pretence or excuse be thus taken away, and the person once taken notice of, be uncapable of any second forbearance.  
I say then that sowing Hemp is the most certain way, how with gains to all parts many hands may be set to work, but if any man think Flax better, he may use it; yet I must tell you that Flax (as sometimes it turns to greater profit than Hemp, so it) is not so certain; and after Flax the ground is not so right for Corn as after Hemp, which indeed prepares land excellently for Corn; but the chief reason is, that the persons to be employed are more likely to do good (at first especially) on Hemp than Flax, the other being the more choice and difficult work, in all points requiring more care and skill, and the vent for Flax also is nothing so ready as that of Hemp, the uses being not so many, nor so great, and we may equal the works of other Nations in Hemp, not presently in Flax.  
If there will appear a hundred honest, able, worthy Englishmen, that will engage each man six thousand pound to set forward this good work (or if not just so, yet more men and less stocks amounting to that proportion (viz.) of stock engaged in all six hundred thousand pound; I shall only hold forth the private and public Advantages, and may boldly promise them, besides God's blessing, and their Country's love, together with the conveniency of taking the most safe course (one of them at least) that can be imagined in these times.  
The six hundred thousand pound, will sow about threescore thousand Acres, and defray all charges first and last till the Hemp he converted into Cordage, Cloth, & and fit for sale. That is, ten pound for an Acre, and each Acre will set above two hundred persons to work for one day; the whole will set above forty thousand to work all the year. Every Acre well managed will yield at least twenty bushels of seed, which at two shillings the bushel, is forty shillings the Acre, or a hundred and twenty thousand pound for the whole, and each Acre so managed may yield at least five hundred and sixty pound of Cloth or Cordage, worth one with another five pence the pound, in all for one Acre sixteen pound sterling, and in all for the grand stock nine hundred and sixty thousand pound sterling; by which, three hundred and sixty thousand pound is gained, that is, about fourteen shillings in the pound gained yearly. And for two years after, the same ground will bear most excellent Wheat, Rye, or Barley, all charges paid to the value of four Quarters of Barley on an Acre, worth one time with another twenty shillings a Quarter, all a hundred and twenty thousand Quarters, and so also a hundred and twenty thousand pound yearly.  
Thus shall forty thousand Poor be kept constantly at work all the year, and the Commonwealth eased of that burden, and advantaged besides a hundred and fifty thousand Quarters of Hempseed, a hundred and fity thousand tun of Cloth and Cordage, and above a hundred and twenty thousand Quarters of good Corn; and the Undertakers amongst them shall gain clearly three hundred and sixty thousand pound sterling yearly. This is set down purposely, the Charge with the most, and the Return with the least. And if the number of so many Rich men cannot be found to engage for any of these sums, more persons, and less engagements may begin the work.   

An Answer to five Queres or Objections against the Proposition for setting the Poor to work upon Hemp growing, or to be growing in England.  
Qu. 1. WHether those in France, etc. practising this way, do make the Gains here supposed, all Casualties considered?  
Answ. Whether they in France, etc. do make so great, or greater profit, I cannot tell, as having never been there to see, but 'tis probable they do equal this, if their ground be equal, (as some will have it) superior to ours in fertility, and fitness for this weed.  
Qu. 2. Whether we can spare the land here in England? or whether it is not already employed to more benefit?  
Answ. To this I can better answer, as the thing I pretty well know, that the Land may not only be spared, but will otherwise very much enrich us, and advance our plenty of Corn, and this is declared in the Proposition, and the Question therefore not so pertinent: Yet for a farther Answer, I affirm, that there is demonstratively in England and Wales above 4000000 of Acres for Tillage, and you find but forty thousand Acres to be used yearly for the sowing of Hemp, which is but the hundereth part, and it is there promised, that in the two or three succeeding years wherein the same land shall be sowed with Corn, amends shall be fully made for the missing of that years crop, and more by the goodness of those that follow.  
The last part of this Quere is soon answered; for it is generally known, that an Acre of Corn (taking one time, place, grain with another throughout) is hardly worth forty shillings, whereas a reasonable Acre of Hemp is worth (standing four pound, some five pound, some six pound, and very many more. And then the Acre of Corn is worth no more than it shows for, whereas the Hemp (to the Commonwealth as well as the particular owner) is of far greater value, if we consider that one Acre of Hemp well wrought up may be worth above a hundred pound, but then the charge may amount to the better half indeed.  
Qu. 3. Whether by the inexperience of the people of this Land, other Nations will not very much under-sell us?  
Answ. I could as well have propounded Flax as Hemp, since in many cases and places it is more useful and profitable, but ● only name it in the Proposition, and if you observe the reason there given for so doing, you will find much of this Question answered or prevented. But how far other Nations may under-sell us, or we them, I leave to the judgement of those that are more Merchantlike, to which I lay no claim, but (at most) to be one that would fain be a good Inland Husband, a Lover of my Country, and a faithful seeker of her Peace & Prosperity by all just and lawful means. Yet thus much I can say to the point, that to my knowledge many hundreds (I think I may say thousands) of Acres are with great advantage to the possessors employed in this way, namely in the Isle of Axholm, and other the parts of Lincolush. etc. which place is more populous than any part of England that I know, and yet few or no Beggars. And I have a little looked into the prizes, yet I find not English hemp differ much in price from that which is imported; it seems to me that necessity rather (as not having enough at home) causes such importing. I have seen a Hull Merchant stand upon three pence a pound for raw Hemp, when the same day English Hemp, that was adjudged every whit as good, was sold for two pence half penny. I have also known Hemp fetched by Wagon from Bourn in Lincolnshire, to Gloucester upon the River of Severn. And our Experience, certainly we may blush to say we have not sufficient skill to make Cordage, or such kinds of corpse cloth as the Proposition intends; namely, such as is commonly used to make Sheets, Tablecloths, Towels, Napkins, and the coarser sorts of Shirting, or the like: As for the finer sorts, we may work ourselves into the kill and practice of making such by degrees, and at more leisure.  
Qu. 4. Whether when we make so much Linen Cordage as here, we shall have so good vent for our Native commodities for which Cordage, Hemp, etc. is returned?  
Answ. As I said, I pretend not to judge of Merchant's affairs, yet I have not heard of any of our native commodities which are vented for Hemp, or Cordage or the like, which will not be acceptable to the same or other Countries for the return of as good commodities. Once I am sure that those commodities are only (or at least most) fit to import which we cannot so well make native to us, as Spices, Wines, Drugs Medicinal, Silks, etc. And I suppose it cannot be unhappy, or unfit for us to make as many our own as by good means we can, especially, Hemp, Cordare, etc. since we cannot be without them, and are not sure always to hold fair correspondence with those Nations from whom we have them, the chief strength of England principally consisting in Shipping, 'tis but a corpse policy to have our Cordage, etc. to keep.  
Qu. 5. Who will advance so great a sum in unsettled times upon a New Trade, having in it the aforementioned (and perhaps more) difficulties?  
Answ. If you please to observe my Proposition, you will find, I say only if such men may be found, I promise not to find them, but if they will find themselves I hold forth to them the sweet invitation of a greater advantage than, I believe they can otherwise obtain by direct and good means: And then add to that the double and treble service or good they shall (all under one) do tax for their Christian Brethren and native Country. And if this will not this will not invite, cannot persuade them, yet methinks we should rather take occasion to bewail our own, theirs, and the Commonwealths misery and averseness from all goodness. As for the troublesomeness of the times, I can but put you in mind of that part of the Proposition that assures this to be one of the most safe and likely ways to save a man's estate, where if it be not fully enough explained, I refer you to your own better judgement to find and propound what you think best.  
And now whosoever raised these Objections, did well, if he did it for the right end (viz.) to illustrate the Proposition, that so it might be made more clear and acceptable. But it's too common to object as an enemy, not to demonstrate, but destroy designs in themselves not evil, at least well intended.   

A new Husbandry, or Improvement of Rape-seed.  
IN the way of a Merchant I do not certainly know, but can guess how to dispose of great quantities of Rape-seed, but for Hemp seed I confess I am ignorant how to vent any such great quantities; but if I may be showed a way to vent either, particularly the last, I may possibly propound a way to produce a much greater encerease than is usually had of either, as namely, whereas it is now the usual custom to sow Rape-seed in low lands, and Fenny, Moorish Countries, where it is liable to the break in of the Sea, or overflow of Land-floods, I can as well, and with as much hope of a plentiful return and increase, sow it in any good upland not liable to such casualties, and for the profit more certain, which at present is in the aforesaid Lowlands when it escapes those floods, valued at five pound per Acre. I say I can propound a way how each Acre of such rich Upland shall yield at least a Last or ten Quarters, or eighty Bushels, which at but three shillings a Bushel, the cheapest rate, is twelve pound sterling, and for extraordinary charge I will deduct forty shillings more than the common way requires per Acre, so that one Acre shall be as good as two now and fixed, that is, the profit much more certain.  
And for Hemp, I say, that whereas an Acre of good Hemp may now be sold standing for about six pound, and the very best under ten, seed and all. I can propound a way, by taking of which, each Acre shall be worth, all charges defrayed, at least six pound, thirteen shillings, four pence for the tew only, and at least six p●●nd, thirteen shillings and four pence more for the seed; and both these productions are made by the careful and skilful replanting of the herbs, and choice and manage of the grounds.   

A Passage taken out of a tract against the high rate of Usury; presented to the high Court of Parliament, Anno Domini 1623. In which the Use for Money was brought down from ten to eight in the Hundred. And now humbly recommended to a further Public Consideration, as a special Means for Advancement of the National Husbandry of this Commonwealth.  
IT hath been the wisdom and care of former Parliament to provide for the preservation of Wood and Timber; for which there is nothing more available than the calling down of the high rate of Usury; for as the rate of Money now goeth, no man can let his Timber stand, nor his Wood grow to such years growth as is best for the Commonwealth, but it will be very loss-full to him. The stock of the Woods after they are worth forty or fifty the shillings the Acre, growing faster at ten in the hundred than the Woods themselves do. And for Shipping which is the strength and safety of this land, I have heard divers Merchants of good credit say, that if they would build a Ship, and let it to any other to employ, they cannot make of their Money that way, counting all charges, tear and wear, above ten or twelve in the hundred, which can be no gainful Trade without hazard, Money itself going at ten in the hundred. But in the Low-Countries where Money goeth at six, the building of Ships, and hiring them to others, is a gainful Trade, and so the stock of Rich men, and the industry of beginners are well joined for the public.  
And yet that which is above all the rest, the greatest sin against the Land is, that it makes the Land itself of small value, nearer the rate of new found Lands than of any other Country, where Laws, Government, and Peace have so long flourished: For the high rate of Usury makes Land sell so cheap, and the cheap sale of Land is the cause why men seek no more by industry and cost to improve them; and this is plain both by example and demonstration; for we see in other Countries, where the use of Money is of a low rate, Lands are generally sold for 30, 40, in some for 50 years' purchase. And we know by the rule of bargaining, that if the rate of use were not greater here than in other Countries, Lands were then as good a pennyworth, at twenty years' purchase as they are now at sixteen: For Lands being the best assurance, and securest inheritance, will bear a rate above Money. Now if Lands were at thirty years' purchase, or near it, there were no so cheap purchase, as the amendment of ou● own Lands; for it would be much cheaper to make one Acre of Land, now worth five shillings by the year, to be worth ten shillings, or being worth ten, to be worth twenty shillings; and so in proportion, then to purchase another acre worth five or ten shillings. And in every acre thus purchased to the owner by the amendment of his own, there were another purchased to the Commonwealth. And it is the blessing of God to this Land, that there are few places of it to which he hath not given means by reasonable cost and industry, greatly to amend it, in many to double the value, so as in time, if for their own good, men's industry were compelled that way, the riches and commodities of this Land would near be doubled: Then would all the wet-lands in this Kingdom soon be drained, the barren lands mended by Matle, Sleech, Lime, Chalk, Sea-sand, and other means, which for their profit men's industry would find out. We see with how great industry and charge our neighbours the Dutch do drain and maintain their Lands against the Sea which floweth higher above them than it doth above the lowest parts of our drowned lands. I will admit a great deal to their industry, but I should very unwillingly grant that they are so much more ingenious and industrious than we, as that all the odds were therein. Certainly the main cause of it is, that with us money is dear and land cheap; with them lands dear and money cheap; and consequently the improvement of their lands at so great a charge with them, is gainful to the owners, which with us would be loss-full; for Usuring going at ten in the hundred, if a man borrow five pounds, and bestow it on an Acre of ground, the amendment stands him in ten shillings a year, and being amended the Land is not worth above fifteen years' purchase: But if the use of money went at no more than at other places, than five pound bestowed upon an Acre of ground, would stand a man in but five or six shillings a year, and the acre of land so amended would be worth, as hath been showed, six and twenty or thirty years' purchase. Whereby it appeareth, that as the rate of Use now goeth no man (but where the land lieth extraordinarily happy for it) can amend his Land but to his own loss; whereas if money were let as it is in other Countries, he might bestow more than double as much as now he may, and yet be a great gainer thereby; and consequently, as was before remembered, should to his own benefit purchase land to the Commonwealth.  
Neither would such purchase of Land to the Commonwealth be the benefit to the landed men only, the benefit would be as much to the poor Labourers of the Land: For now when Corn and other fruits of the land which grow by labour are cheap, the Plough and Mattock are cast into the hedge, there is little work for poor men, and that at a low rate, whereas if the mendment of their own lands were the cheapest purchase to the owner; if there were many more people than there are, they should be readily set a work at better rates than now they are, and none that had their health and limbs could be poor, but by their extremest laziness.   

A Bank of Lands; or, an Improvement of Lands, never thought on in former Ages: Begun to be presented upon most rationable and demonstrable grounds by Mr. William Potter (a Gentleman of great deserts, and of a most Public Spirit) which being more fully cleared in all its Particulars, and established by public Authority, may become a standing and settled Means to enrich the whole Nation, and also to remove Taxes, and other public Burdens.  
THrough the long continuance of the Wars, Trade hath been interrupted, great losses sustained at sea, the people constrained to live upon the main stock, men's credits ruined, many debts (otherwise good) lost, both friends and enemies plundered or sequestered, and Taxes, etc. avoidable continued, whereby the Nation is now in a very low condition.  
There is a great necessity that this Epidemical disease of ruin in men's estates should be cured; for hereby,  
1. The Rich, that should support others, are diminished in number, and weakened in means, and the Poor that should be upheld, are increased both in number and necessities.  
2. If the removing of Burdens be necessary, the removing of Poverty (without which the rest are, in effect, no burdens) is more necessary.  
3. The Trade, Manufacture, Shipping, Strength, Repute and flourishing estate of the Nation, depends as the means upon the Riches thereof.  
4. The servility of a low condition, deprives men of much leisure and freedom in attending higher things.  
This burden may be removed by encouraging such employments and undertake as tend to increase the estates of some without impoverishing others; for whatsoever takes from one man's estate as much as it adds to another, doth not enrich the Nation.  
The capacity of enriching this Nation, is in a sort infinite.  
1. By making it the Scale of Trade to other people, which consists in buying the commodities of other Countries, working them here, and selling them again in foreign parts: Whereby if England were a City upon a Rock (and held no land of their own) they might be maintained comfortably. Witness Holland.  
2. By Plantations throughout the world, which tends to lessen our charge, and increase our means, by the returns of commodities out of the industry of those that otherwise must be maintained for nothing.  
3. By the Fishing-trade, wherein the Sea affords a vast Treasure, without demanding any rent for it, all which three last particulars would yield a kind of infinite of increase, if there were no want of stock to employ therein.  
4. By improving our present Possessions: For,  
1. Almost all the Land in England might be made to yield much more increase, if men had money to employ in manuring the same.  
2. Divers Husbandmen want wherewith to stock their ground, whereby (perhaps) the Nation suffers more than many times by much unseasonable weather.  
3. A great part of Ireland lies at present waste, which (without great stock to plant) is like so to continue.  
4. There are great quantities of oazie grounds about the Sea-coast and other Fens and waste grounds; besides Forests and Commons, which drained and improved might equalise in value some two or three Counties in England.  
5. There are many Mines in England, Ireland, and Scotland, which being wrought would much increase our Exportation and employment for poor men.  
To set all these Wheels a going, two things are necessary, viz. that the people may know where to be furnished with stock at low interest, and that a sufficient quantity of currant money be dispersed amongst them.  
And indeed the great Remora is, that the people are generally void of stock, whereby it is impossible they should deal either in the Foreign Trade, Fishing, Plantations, or Improving their own possessions, by reason whereof both poor and rich are deprived of employment, and forced to live chiefly upon the Principal, to the greater increase of their poverty and ruin.  
Whereas if they knew where to obtain such stock at low Interest, it would both enable them to prosecute the aforesaid ends, and also make way for the more speedy vent of commodities in other Nations; for greatness of stock at low Interest, would enable the English Merchants to deal for much, and thereby to buy cheap, work cheap, and sell for less profit in the pound (and also to procure their commodities at the best hand, viz. at the places of their growth in their proper season) whereby out-trading and underselling other Nations, they obtain the pre-emption of sale, and so cannot fail of vent abroad.  
Also great stock at low Interest would enable Merchants to raise the price of our own native commodities in Foreign parts, by keeping them for a good Market, which helps much towards the enriching of a Nation.  
Again if there were great quantity of money dispersed amongst the people of this land, there would not wantvent of commodities amongst themselves.  
For in this case every man to improve his stock would be laying out that money in commodities, & those that receive it would be laying it out again upon others, and those upon others, and so on, which would beget a constant return, or quick vent for commodities proportionable to the quantity of money so perpetually revolving amongst them.  
Now if (through plenty of money amongst the people) there were as much vent for commodity as the earth could by industry be made to afford, men would not spare either the Sea or the Land, but the one by the Fishing Trade, the other by Husbandry and all ingenious ways of Improvement here in England; by planting in Ireland, and other new Plantations throughout the whole Globe, would bestow all their skill and diligence to multiply commodity and livelihood to the employment of innumerable poor, and all other men whatsoever, and the abundant increase of our Shipping and Dominion on the Sea, and thereby the strength, renown, and flourishing estate of the Nation.  
And not only so, but if there were such vent here in England, even Foreign Nations would dispatch their commodities hither as to the quickest Market, and by meeting here (as in a centre) might furnish each other with returns, so as England would become as it were a general Market or Fair to other Nations, to the great enriching thereof; whereby the Frontier Towns upon the Sea-coast, by reason of Trade would grow populous and strong for the defence of the Nation.  
Also quickness of returns here in England would expedite returns abroad; for quick returns makes a small stock equivalent to a great stock with slow returns, and therefore if the Merchants of England could vent all sorts of commodities here as fast as they could possibly procure them, it would enable them to deal for much, and consequently to buy much cheap, work cheap, and sell for less profit in the pound as before. So as in this case there would not want vent for commodities, either at home, by reason of the plenty of money here, or abroad by reason of our own out-trading other Nations, through the greatness of our stock, and quickness of returns.  
Also if men (through plenty of Coin revolving amongst them) could meet with ready money for all commodities as fast as they could be made fit for sale, no man for the future would deal for time, the rather for that the forbearance of Debts in a time of quick trade would be great loss.  
This would remove all those Inconveniencies which are incident to the ordinary way of Trading upon credit, viz. 

1. The imprisonment of men's persons for debt.  
2. Innumerable suits of Law about such debts.  
3. Much trouble in keeping Accounts.  
4. Great losses by men's trusting those that fail.  
5. Cozenage in those who (concealing their estates) compound with their Creditors.  
6. Underselling the Market for procuring money to pay debts.  
7. Hard bargains by taking up beware upon trust.  
8. Disabling men from managing their Trade, and taking the advantage of the Market, their stock being in other men's hands.    
This necessity of plenty of Coin amongst a people, is the reason why States makes Laws against the Exportation thereof, and many times pitch upon some Staple commodities which they will not exchange with other Nations but for returns in Bullion.  
So much money in specie as were necessary to furnish the people with the aforesaid stock at low Interest, and such plenty of Coin as is already mentioned, is impossible to be had, and if it could be obtained by returns from other Nations, yet we must part with our own commodities for it, which we cannot spare in such great quantities. Whereas upon serious consideration it will be found, that Credit grounded upon the best security is the same thing with Money, and may be had in very great abundance, without parting with any commodity for it.  
That such Credit is as good as Money will appear if it be observed that Money itself is nothing else but a kind of security which men receive upon parting with their commodities, as a ground of hope or assurance that they shall be repaid in some other commodity: since no man would sell any commodity for the best money, but in hopes thereby to procure some other commodity or necessary.  
True it is that Coin which hath no intrinsical value, as they call it (viz. Money of Brass, Copper, etc.) though whilst it runs currant the owner may obtain commodity for it, yet when the use of it is prohibited (no man being engaged to make it good) he suffers loss. Which if he had security in Lands of sufficient value would be prevented, whereby it appears, that security answers to the intrinsic value of Coyn.  
That such Credit is as good as Money, is also evident upon this ground, That Money if it were a better security than it is, yet it serveth only to supply the interval of time between the selling of one commodity, and the buying of another: Now the best assurances in Land are a security sufficient for the supplying of that interval: Especially considering that men's estates are generally either in land or commodities. And in land (though more certain than commodity) yet if absolutely purchased there may be loss by its decrease in value, but if accepted only as in Mortgage, that hazard is prevented, and so becomes the most certain security on earth, and therefore must needs be sufficient to supply the short interval betwixt the selling of land or commodity and the buying thereof.  
Upon this ground that Security is in effect the same thing with Money, it is, that in divers places of the world it runs currant in stead of Money.  
Thus Bills in Flanders obliging the Debtor to pay money at a certain time, are acccepted by those who esteem of the man as able and sufficient, whereby such Bills do usually pass from one hand to another, until they become payable.  
Thus in Venice, Leighorn, and Amsterdam, the security (commonly called Credit, grounded upon the depositions of money in bank, runs currant, and though the owners may have money if they please, yet they choose rather to deal by credit; whereby it appears that it is neither impossible, strange, nor unpracticeable, for security to be made to supply the place of money.  
This is best effected by the way of Banks.  
Banks, as they are now practised, are nothing else in effect but places where men pawn or deposit their moneys for obtaining currant credit, as that which they may keep with less danger, and assign to another with less trouble.  
If any man who hath credit in Bank demands the money, it is paid him; but as some men demand money out of the Bank, so others when they are to receive money, do cause it to be paid into the Bank, whereby to ease themselves of the trouble of receiving, keeping, and paying it.  
Hence it is that the Bankers are always receiving money of some, as well as paying it to others; so as those who from time to time demand any money, are usually paid by those who bring it in, and the rest of the money lies dead in bank, or else that Bank hath no credit; for look how much credit runs currant, so much mon●y doth or should lie dead in bank, as a pawn for making good theeof.  
Now seeing such money lies dead in bank, and serveth for no other purpose, but as a pawn or ground of security; for making good the credit that runs currant in stead thereof, there is no doubt to be made but that lands being mortgaged to a Bank, would serve as well and better for such a pawn, which cannot be removed or made away by force or fraud, as great sums of money lying long in one place may; neither is any temptation to an enemy, as Banks of money are; witness the late attempt of the Prince of Orange.  
If any should here expect a more full opening of the nature of such Banks of security, and other circumstances relating to the practice thereof, it is not my scope to insist thereon at present, lest the discourse might become too large for men of business: It may suffice in the mean time that the thing itself plainly appears to be practiceable, there being nothing in it but what is daily acted amongst men: For,  
1. The raising of Credit upon the security of Lands, is no new thing.  
2. The making use of Credit in Bank, instead of money, and transferring of such credit from one man to another in books kept for that purpose, is also practised in the aforesaid Banks. Now put those two together, and you have the whole of what is here propounded.  
I shall therefore in the general put a case.  
Suppose any company of men should proffer to lend this State two or three hundred millions of money gra●is, let us consider what they would do therewith.  
They could not employ it with safety any otherwise, th●● by sending it forth to the people upon sufficient security at a reasonable Interest, because it is but lent to them, and therefore must be restored.  
2. It may be they would resolve also to raise Banks therewith, whereby the credit grounded upon such money, might run currant amongst the people, rather than the money itself, which is not so fit for daily use, in great sums, in respect of the trouble of telling and re-telling, the loss in clipped and counterfeit money, the hazard which men sustain in keeping much money by them, the trouble of carrying great sums from house to house, and the danger from conveying it in specie from one Town to another, whereas dealing in such credit (as to all great sums) would prevent Highway-theeves, who if they have nothing but goods to seize upon in the road, cannot go long undiscovered, nor can advance any thing thereupon worth their attendance, which would totally discourage them from following that lewd kind of life, and thereby free the Highways of such Vermin.  
Credit also is better amongst the people than money, in these two respects: First it cannot be transported to other Nations. Secondly, it will not be hoarded up, as money many times is to the great hindrance of Trade: for that money which is of least esteem amongst the people, if it be of real value in itself, is most for their good, because every man striving to post it off from himself, doth thereby quicken returns of Trade.  
Now suppose that (upon these manifold considerations) such Banks should be erected, and it should thereupon come to pass, that this money thus lent to the Commonwealth, should lie dead in Bank, and the people should make use of their Credit in stead thereof (as they do I say in other places) I demand then to what purpose this money serveth?  
If it be said it lies for a pawn to secure the Credit that runs currant in stead thereof:  
I answer, the Land which was taken for security, when the money was lent to the people, is a sufficient pawn to make good such credit: If not, than the money which was lent upon that security, which fails, is lost; but if the security hold good it is the same with money: And therefore if the State might venture to lend the money itself upon the best security, the people may even as well venture to take such security itself for money.  
Hereupon there is no doubt but the State (in order to their own security) would restore this money to the owners, and proceed without it, as being, first, altogether superfluous; secondly, a great temptation to an Enemy; thirdly, subject in process of time to the fraud of Officers, and sudden commotions of several parties and factious if it lie dead in Bank: And if it go abroad, than not so sit for daily use of Credit in the manifold respects already mentioned: And if they thus proceed without the said money they do the same thing which is here proposed.  
The premises considered, to dispute against the aforesaid Banks grounded upon security, is the same thing, as to oppose the accepting of the aforesaid money in specie, if it were to be lent this Nation gratis.  
This being so, if any should ask whether the State would refuse the free loan of so much ready money? I answer (confidently) No.  
1. Because by the lending thereof to the people upon Interest, a Revenue may be raised to free them from public taxes and burdens.  
2. Interest might be brought to a low rate for the encouragement of Trade, and without any compulsive Law.  
3. The filling of the land with so exceeding great a quantity of money, would by the revolution thereof quicken Trade in the highest degree.  
4. It would be a means to furnish the people with abundance of stock to employ in the Foreign Trade, Fishing, Plantations, improving their own Lands, drowned and wasted grounds, Mines, etc. in all the three Nations.  
5. By such fall of Interest, Land would rise much in price, which (besides the help of sufficient stock and quick vent) would much encourage the improvement thereof.  
6. Many public Grievances and Burdens would be prevented thereby (as is already for the most part observed) viz. oppression amongst Brokers and Extortioners; the trouble, charge, and hazard in returns of moneys, Highway-theeves, imprisonment for debt, innumerable law-suits, losses by failers, underselling the Market, enhancing foreign commodities, and debasing the value of our own: And in brief, that great Burden of all Burdens, namely, extreme Poverty, with divers other particulars, which I shall not further repeat.  
Now considering our present great extremities for want of stock and money, who that loves his Country, would be against the accepting of such an immense Treasure of good and currant Coin, if it were proffered this Nation gratis; and yet it plainly appears by the premises, that all this Treasure lies within our own reach, in that kind of Bullion, which is better than money in specie, and wants nothing but the mere stamp of Authority to make it currant; and hath this further advantage in it, that it may be made use of to the world's end, without fearing it should ever be demanded, which so much money ●ent; gratis, cannot.  
To conclude therefore, it plainly appears that the way to remove Poverty, Taxes, and most public Grievances, and to make this Nation abound in Wealth, Trade, Cities, Shipping, People, and Renown, is (according to means) neither unpracticeable, nor difficult, except we renounce all humane prudence; and with the Sluggard in the Proverbs, create difficulties to ourselves, where God hath made none.  
If therefore the Proposition in general be thought worthy of regard, it is humbly desired that Commissioners might be appointed to hear and debate such considerations as relate thereunto, with that seriousness as a thing of this moment will require; for upon the mere reading of things, men start many scruples (through misapprehension) which have no ground but their own mistakes; whereby many good Proposals suffer great prejudice, which upon solemn debates would easily detected and prevented.  
By this means these Propositions have been already clogged by divers that have heard thereof, at the second and third hand, with several false Imputations and groundless Jealousies; all which if those that are concerned, will please to make it their business to be satisfied, will, I hope, be fully be cleared.  
Thus far of the Bank of Lands at the present.    

The Conclusion of the Legacy of Husbandry, taken out of Sir R. Weston late of Sutton in the County of Surrey, his Legacy to his Sons, with a little alteration of his words.  
BY the means of good Husbandry you may nobly augment your estates, and will receive so much the more profit and praise, by how much more industry and diligence you govern your affairs; and will not only be imitated, but also honoured by our Neighbours, when they shall see your labours prosper so far, as to convert barren ground left unhusbanded for many Ages into commodious Arable land, with Pastures and Meadows. And certainly that man is worthy of praise and honour, who being possessed of a large and barren Demean, constrains it by his labour and industry to produce extraordinary fruits; which redounds not only to his own particular profit, but also to the public benefit. Cato saith, It is a great shame to a man not to leave his Inheritance greater to his Successors than he received it from his Predecessors, and that he despiseth the liberality of God who by his slothfulness loseth that which his land may bring forth, as not seeming willing to reap the fruits which God hath offered him. Nay he threatens the crime of high Treason to those that do not augment their Patrimony so much as the Increase surmounts the Principal. It is a thing much celebrated by Antiquity, and thought the noblest way to gather Wealth for to employ one's Wit and Money upon his Land, and by that means to augment his estate. If you observe the common course of things, you will find that Husbandry is the End which men of all estates in the world do point at. For to what purpose do Soldiers, Scholars, Lawyers, Merchants, and men of all occupations and trades toil and labour with great affection, but to get money? and with that money, when they have gotten it but to purchase Land? and to what end do they buy that land but to receive the fruits of it to live? and how shall one receive the fruits of it but by his own Husbandry or a Farmers? So that it appears by degrees; that what course soever a man taketh in this world, at last he cometh to Husbandry which is the most common occupation amongst men, the most natural and holy being commanded by the mouth of God to our First Fathers. There is care and diligence requisite in Husbandry, as there is in all the Actions of the world; and therefore as a Captain hath a Lieutenant to command his Soldiers in his absence, or for his ease: So must you provide some able honest man to whom you will commit the execution of such things, as you yourselves cannot do without too much labour; whereof you must often take an account, and confer with him (as occasion shall require) about your business, that nothing may be left undone for want of providence. To such a man you must give good wages, with intent to advance your own gain, and take the more ease by reason of his honesty and knowledge.  
You will find the Improvement by Husbandry (after you have once had experience of it to be very pleasing to you, and so exceeding profitable, that it will make you dilidiligent; for no man of any Art or Science (except an Alchemist) ever pretended so much gain any other way, as you shall see discovered and demonstrated in this Treatise. The Usurer doubles but his principal, with Interest upon Interest in seven years, but by this Legacy of Husbandry you shall learn now to do more than treble your principal in one years' compass. I will say no more of this subject, only it remains to tell you, that you must not expect either Eloquence or Method in these miscellanies; but true relations and directions, plainly set forth, which must be carefully followed and observed: but before all things to be sure you lay the foundation of your Husbandry, upon the blessing of Almighty God, continually imploring his divine aid and assistance in all your labours: for it is God that gives the Increase; and believing this as the Quintessence, and soul of Husbandry. But seek ye first the Kingdom of God, and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.  

An Animadvertisement to the City and Country.  
THese are to give public notice to City and Country, that there is lately invented a new and very useful Engine, both for quencing of fire, and improving of Husbandry, it may be managed with one man to quench fire, and may be used 24 hours without danger of choking, taking, up not above five or six foot (the whole Engine forcers and all) whereas the ordinary Engine cannot be played in less than twenty foot. It is of so small a bulk, that it may be carried through any narrow entry with two men, and is to be applied to any fire that is broken out backwardly▪ whereas in the ordinary Engines, they are fain to pull down the forepart of the house before they can come at the fire, by which means the fire increaseth much, which is prevented by this invention. It is also very commodious for Watering of whole Fields or Gardens, as likewise beating of Caterpillars off Trees▪ besides several other profitable Uses. If any shall desire to have further informations or directions, concerning the foresaid Engine, he may please to resort to the Inventor himself, Mr. Thomas Owefield, dwelling in the Strand, near the Savoy, next door to the Sign of the Sun; who stands engaged to the Author of the Legacy of Husbandry to make good all his Undertake.   
FINIS.