117333 EXECUTIVE Michigan State [Kalamazoo Publishing Cofls Print] 'I‘IE-IE ISSUED SEMI- MONTHLI VOL. 3,—No. 7. WHOLE N0. 39. SCHOOLCRAFT, APRIL 1st, 1878. SITO COMMITTEE <@ Grange, P. of H. R 5 YOUR SUBSCRIPTION ( will Expire with No. A THE GRANGE VISITOR, Is Published on the First and Fifteenth of every Month A'I‘ FIFTY CENTS PER ANNUM, lnvariably in Advance. J. 1‘. COBB, - - Manager. To whom all communications should be ad- dressed, at Schoolcraft, Mich. Remittances should be by Registered Letter, Money Order or Draft To Contributors. As the Vrsrron now bears date the 1st and 15th of each month, to insure insertion in the next issue, Communications must be received by the l0th and 25th of each month. VVe in- vite attention to those interested to our new Heading “ To CORRESPONDENTS.” Rarns or ADVEMISING: Acceptable advertisements inserted at the rate of $2.00 per square, for each insertion. A Liberal discount will be made on standing advertisements of three months or more. €’ For Grange Supplies kept by the Secretary, see “LIST OF SUPPLIES” on eight}: page. Ofncers National Grange. MASTER——S. E ADAMS, Minn. OVERSEER—J. J. WOODIVIAN, Mich. LI-:crUaEa—M0RT’MR WHITEHEAD, N J. STEWARD—A. J. VAUGHN. Miss. Assr. S'I‘EWARD—VVILLIAl\rI SIMS, Kansas. CHAPLAIN-—A. I’. I-‘ORSYTH, Illinois. TREASURER——F. M. MCDOWELL, N. Y. SECRETARY—U. H. KELLEY, Kentucky. GATE-KEEPER——O. DIN WIDDIE, Indiana. CnnEs—Mns. S. E. ADAMS, Minnesota. POMONA—MRS. J. J. WOODMAN, Michigan. FLORA—MH.S. JAS. T. MOORE. Maryland. LADY ASSTISTANT STEWARD—MISS CARRIE A. HALL, Kentucky. Officers Michigan State Grange. M.-—J. J. WOODMAN, - - O.—P. W. ADAMS, _ - §..—-£31. L. WHITNEY, - - -‘ - FLEMING. - - - Pontiac. A. S.—W. H. MATTISON, - - Ionia, b.——SALMON STEEL, Bear Lake. Manis’e Co T'"’S‘ F‘ BROWN: ~ - Schoolcraft. SEc.—J. T. COBB, - - - H (x. K.—A. N. WOODRUFF, - Wate1~v1iet_ gEBES.—MBS. C. L. WHITNEY, Muskeg-on_ F0M0NA—MRS. W. T. ADAMS, Grand Rapids. LOEA-—MRS. J. J. WOODMAN, Paw Paw, L. A. S.——Mas. W. H. MATTISON, Ionia._ Paw Paw. - Tecumseh. Muskegon. Executive committee F. M. HOLLOWAY, Chairman, - Hillsdaje, &.EVl(§EBSTER CHILDS, — - - Yp5i[a,ntj_ C G WOODWARD, Shelby, Oceana Co. - -Y Gilead, Branch 00. THOMAS M %D1VlhE, ,BeIdIng, Iorua. Co_ W SATTEA S. Berrien Center, Berrien Co. J ,‘,‘- RLEE. Birmingham, Oakland Co. . . WOODMAN, J. T. COBB, - Ex. Ofiicio. State Business Agent . J. M. CHIDESTER, - . - Detroit J. H. GARDNER, Centreville, St. Joseph C0. General Deputy, 0' L‘ WHITNEY» - - - Muskegon. Special Lecturers. Thos. F. Moore, . . . . . . Adrian L C, Geo, W, Woodward“ ,. enawee ‘u samuen Laugaon, ..1a..?.‘$2iI”.3'.;.‘.;.;;.' '°§2““i‘ 8° E. C. Herrington,. . .Four Towns ’Oakla(.md C0 M. L. Stevens, ens, ’s',',iaWas; 0° L. R. Brown, . . . .Rawsonvill.e;.' :Washtena€v 03 Andrew Campbell, . .Ypsilanti, , , 4. .. Mrs. Salmon Steele,..Bear Lake,. .Manistee Co UNDER existing regulations we are require to send a co of free to the Master otPiiachtS11ibi>7rIciSiIIir:i)tIei ‘f}m'1€8- We shall also send a copy ree to all Secretaries who send us ten or more names of subscribers for one Veal’. with pay for the same. We ffimutim uéinmmittfa glepartmeut, g. at PATRONS, READ THIS AND CONSIDER. On You Depends the Life or Death of the “Visitor” as a. Semi-3Ionthly—Report of Special Committee. HILLSDALE, MICH-., March, 1878. To the Pat-rons 0 f the State : The undersigned, a Sub-Committee appointed by the Executive Committee of the Michigan State Grange, March 13th, 1878, to investi- gate the financial condition of the GRANGE VISITOR and its prospects, and to make report through the said VISITOR, would present the fol- lowing statement: The Order, from every part of the State, petitioned the State Grange to enlarge and issue more frequently this paper. These petitions were very generally discussed in that body, and a firm conviction expressed on the part of the representatives, that the subscription list would be made all sutficient to pay the increased expense of an enlargement in size and more frequent issue. The whole matter was, after much consideration, referred to the Executive Committee, with instructions to increase the issue and en- large the size, provided it could be done Without expense to the State Grange Treasury. Finding the VISITOR again on their hands, the Committee designated Brothers Childs, Mars, VVoodman, and Cobb as aSub-Committee, who should, after making diligent enquiry as to the practicability of complying with the expressed wishes of the rep- resentatives of the’ Order, determine the question. This Sub-Com- mittee decided that the experiment should be made, and if, after a trial of three months, success was not assured, the project should be abandoned, and its monthly issue resumed. In accordance with this determination the paper has been pub- lished regularly the time designated. It has been cordially endorsed by all who take it, so far as we have heard, and not a word of dissatis- faction has reached any member of the Committee. VVe relied on, and hoped the oflicers of the Subordinate Granges in the State would make this a personal duty, and see that a copy was put into every Patrons’ family within their jurisdiction. In this we have been dis- appointed. Our subscription book shows a portion of the Granges alive to the work, giving a subscriber for every family in the Grange. Others, with a membership of from 75 to 100, take but a half dozen copies; and many others without a. copy, except the one sent free to be kept in the Grange. Patrons, we dislike to make this statement, but truth and the Good of the Order demands it. You admit the value of the paper to the Order as a channel of communication one with the other. Its columns of intelligence on farm topics and domestic surroundings, should be of interest to you. Ve shall in future be able to present to you Scientific Correspon- dence relating to Agriculture, Horticulture, Floriculture and Pomology, from the Professors of the State Agricultural College, which will be of real value to every practical farmer. _ Our Order has been honored by the appointment of Worthy Mas- ter \Voodman to represent not only the State of Michigan, but the Ag- ricultural interests of the United States in the Great International Exposition of France. He will be in Paris for several months, and probably will not lose so favorable an opportunity of seeing something of the European countries during his absence. His interest in the Order of Patrons of Husbandry——-in his Brothers and Sisters of Michi- gan, whose guardian he still is, and in the Vrsrron itself, will insure from him regular contributions to its pages, and these alone, we venture to say, will be worth more than the subscription price of the volume. Masters and Secretaries of Michigan, will you take hold of this work at once, and give us, by renewals and new subscribers, the 1,000 more that we must have to continue the VISITOR a semi-monthly. F. M. HOLLOWAY, WESTBROOK DIVINE, J. WEBSTER CHILDS, WM. SATTERLEE, Committee. To the Patrons of Husbandry and Co- operative Associations. The Executive Committee of the Michigan State Grange hereby an- nounce to the Patrons of Michigan and Co-operative Associations in the State, that they have opened an Agency in the city of Detroit, for the purchase of goods and sale of pro- ducts for Subordinate, County and District Granges, Councils, and Co- operative Associations, who may de- sire to avail themselves of this chan- nel of purchasing their supplies, or of selling their products. VVe have taken this step in response to the oflicially expressed desire of a large majority of the Granges of the State. It is very natural for us, to conclude, that you have only asked for that which you believe will be of practical benefit to the Order at large. To make it so,collectively and individually will call for prompt and efiieient co- operation. ‘Vs have appointed James M. Chidester, Esq., as agent, a gentle- man of more than twenty years ex- perience in trade, and thoroughly con. versant with Detroit Inarkets. \Ve believe he will fill the position credit- ably to himself and to the satisfaction of the Order. It is well understood by the Execu. tive Committee, and it should be by you, that the agencies for the Grange in Michigan from this time forward, are to be selfvsupporting. The State Treasury cannot accumu- late from reduced fees, and present dues, more than to meet her regular annual expenses. \Ve have therefore placed this agency on the same basis, as Ohio, Illinois, and several other States. Our plan of operating is as follows: 1st. Let each Grange or Council se- lect aresponsible member to act as agent for them, by endorsing the or- ders they shall make for goods, on the back of the same. 2d. Let the order be made, signed by Master and Secretary, under seal of Grange or Conncil—and endorsed by the agent,when so done, forward to the agent at Detroit, with such instruc- tions as you desire, also how you will have the goods shipped. Co-operative Associations if they desire to try the agent in making their purchases will correspond directly with him for ar- rangements. 3d. The agent on receiving your order authenticated by your Grange seal, and endorsed by your home agent, will at once fill your bill at wholesale rates, from the best house in Detroit. He will ship the goods as ordered, to your agent, with a duplicate bill, as made up by the house or houses from whom puschased. adding thereto two per cent. for purchasing. 4th. Your agent on receipt of bill and goods will receive the pay for the same before delivered, and forward by draft, money order, or registered let- ter to the agent at Detroit, which will be acknowledged by him with postal card. 5th. In selling the products. of the farm, th'e Executive Committee cannot E4. r_:. ii’ . ..vsufi~‘t=3s~........ '.-4.4.-a..iaIM'.;::.1.. . - ~ . ., _ - =-W ' - - ~ - ....-..,.‘..-at-.-6.“ ~ ' 2 hold out inducements in the beginning for any thing but ear lots, made of one sample, any thing further would in- volve a store house and salesrooin; should the trade warrant, this will be added. In conclusion may we not ask you to carry out the cardinal principles of co-operation so far as to try this agency once. If it proves satisfactory your committee will be gratified; if a failure, we ask to be informed wherein, and we will try and remedy any errors. But we hope you will bear in mind, the fact, that goods are largely sold on small margins now, you cannot ex- pect to save the percentage in co-oper- ation you did four years ago, but we have no doubt but the saving will be satisfactory. For and in behalf of the Ex. Com., F. M. HoI.i.0w.iv, C/En. gasfefs glepartment. J. J. TVOODMAN, — — - PAVV PA VV Coiistitutional Aineiidzncnt. )IAs'ri:it’s Oi~'ri(:i:. March 1(5tli, 1878. J The Proclamation of the Master of the National Grange, declaring the Amendment. reducing the Initiatory fees of membership to $3 for men, and $31 for women, ratified, has been re- ceived. and the resolution of the State Grange, incorporating the same into the By-Laws of the State Grange, takes effect. J. J. 'VVoomi.x::, Master, M. S. G. I’. of H. Grange Lectures. Brother T. A. Thompson, ex-Lec- turer of the National Grange, informs me that he will commence his labors in this State, on the 20th of April next, giving his first public lecture in Paw Paw. He will speak at Porter on the 22d. Lawrence the 23d, Decatur the 24th, Keeler the 25th, and will go into Berrien County on the 28th. He desires to so arrange his appointments as to speak every day in the Week, (Sundays excepted). Granges not lo- cated on railroads will be expected to furnish him conveyance from and to the cars Further notice oi his ap- pointments will be given in the next VISITOR. Ladies —The Visitor — Education—Iligli Schools in Grange Halls. I am highly gratified with the in- creasing interest which the ladies are taking in their department of the Visrron. It no longer goes begging for contributions. Our sisters are waking up to their duty and privilege, I would like to refer in detail to every article which has appeared in that de- partment, since the lst of January, for they all contain good, practical ideas, and encouraging words, but space will not permit. “Aunt Kate” did a little good natured scolding, as she (bez'n.g am oldludi ,) had a right to ; and I believe it did good. I have not the pleasure of a personal acquaint- ance with “Aunt Kate,” but I will venture to guess, that she is the mother of at least half a score of as fine sons and daughters as ever en- tered the “ hyinenial band ” from one household, and that a score and a half of bright-eyed, rosy-checked boys and girls call her “Grand’ma.” She lived when farmers’ wives did the house-work, spun and wove, cut and made, and knit the garments for the whole household, and then found time to feed the chicks and pigs, milk the cows, and assist the men in rak- ing hay and digging potatoes. She knows and feels what she is talking about; and I hope she will again rub THE GRANGE ‘VISITOR. up her “specks,” and tell us how she managed to train and educate all those children. “Myra on Housework,” talks sen- sibly, and “Friend of the Boys,” has touched a cord that will vibrate through every parent’s heart. The article on “Practical Educa- tion,” by A. B. \V., and “Our Com- mon Schools,” by A. S. K., are Worth the price of the Visitron for a whole year. Parents and teachers read those articles again; for they contain prac- tical ideas upon one of the most im portant questions which demands the careful consideration of every mem- ber of our Order, and of the com- munity. The education of the chil- dren which God in his goodness has entrusted to our care. Are our common schools what they should be? if not, where lies the fault .7 Are our children receiving such instruction in our common and graded schools as will best fit them for all the duties of life? if not, who is to blame? We are the parents, the people, the voters, the tax payers, the sovereigns, and upon us rests the re- sponsibility. It was not my intention to write an essay, but to (-all the attention of our members to tins question of “ Educa- tion,” and “County High Schools.” 1 have visited many portions of our beautiful and highly favored State during the last three years, have at- tended many Grange meetings, and dedicated many Grange Halls. I have not made a practice of writing up my travels, or describing the interesting meetings I have attended; and coi'— dial welcomes, and fraternal greetings with which I have been universally re- ceived; but in connection with this subject,I may be pardoned for refer- ring briefly to two hall dedications which I had the pleasure of conduct- ing. The iirst, at South Boston, in lonia County, a little more than one year ago. This hall is situated in the country, about seven miles from the Village of Lowell. It cost about $3,000, and is supplied with ample stable accommodations. I was in- formed at the dedication that it was intended to form a high school in this hall. Learning that such a school was in operation,I wrote Bro. A. S. Stannard, Master of the Grange, for information upon the success of the school. He writes me a very interest- ing letter upon this subject. Space alone prevents its entire publication. A few extracts must suflice : “ The school in our Grange Hall, now near the close of its third term, is the result of a want of higher educational advantages at home, at the time when our larger boys can best be spared from the labors of the farm ; and we think it a success in supplying the want. “ You ask, ‘Does it pay 2” I answer, Yes. The parents find it all they ex- pected, and have the society of their children at home. The scholars appre- ciate it, and have advanced commend- ably.” Bro. Stannard closed his letter as follows : “ It seems to me that it is a decided benefit to a community to have superior educational advantages at home. Many will avail themselves of the advantages of such schools, that could not go to the village or city high school, several miles away. The success of these schools will depend upon the interest taken in them by the parents. If supported upon the true principle of co-operation they can- not fail of success; and will tend to de- velop and cultivate a more refined and elevated home influence, and make the country less dependant upon the cities and villages. All these circumstances are in harmony with the objects and purposes of our Order. “ This using Grange Halls for school purposes, is quite as proper as using school-housesfor Grange purposes, un- til more convenient structures can be provided. VVe designed our hall to meet the several wants of the commit- nity, as well as the wan ts of the Grange. VVe are using it for religious meetings, lectures, temperance club meetings, social gatherings and a school. It is also a favorite place for general Grange and farmers’ gatherings. \Ve desire to make it a place where all can meet with- out division or restraint, for social, moral and intellectual culture, and we think we are meeting with a fair degree of success in that direction.” The other hall dedication to which I refer. was that of Alpine Grange, in Kent County. It is situated in Alpine township, about ten miles north of the city of Grand Rapids, in the midst of a beautiful and rich farming country. It is a large, imposing, and well-con- structed building, and was dedicated in January last. The Grange Hall, in the upper story, is a large and well furnished room. The walls were beautifully and appropriately decorat ed with pictures, emblems, and mot- toes, clearly indicating the culture and good taste of the lady members of the Grange. The hall was well filled, and the ceremonies were en- livened by a choir of first-class sing- ers, and a full brass band. The tables in the room below were ladened with a bountiful supply of good things, to which all were invited and partook with satisfaction. This room is high, well lighted and ventilated, and con- slructccl espccictlly for a /Lig//L school. Ample stable room for horses was to be constructed, so that students could drive from a distance of several miles away, attend the school, and return home at night. So the example of South Boston Grange is being fol- lowed in Alpine. I am forcibly im- pressed with the idea that this system of High Schools, is what the country needs, and their establishment is a move in the right direction. Patrons, this subject is worthy of your con- sideration, Digest. The following are the rulings and decisions contained in the Digest re- cently revised and published by the National Grange: Preserve these numbers for future reference : CHAPTER IV—(7o7zt[m¢cc.7. on THE SL'BORI)I.\'A’I‘E cimxciic. SECTION III. on THE )1i~:is'rI.\'Gs, .lURISI)I("1‘I()N, AND POWERS on THE SL'BOR1’)INA’1‘1-J GRANGICS. 1 Subordinate G'7‘an_(/cs shall meet at least once each month, and may hold intermediate meetings.—[Cons., art. ii, sec. 1. 2 A Grange can provide by By-law for more than one regular meeting a month, but in List have at least one.—[Decis. 16. 2 Only one meeting, regular or special, can be held within twenty-four hours. —[Parliamentary Guide, p. 5. _ 4 A Subordinate Grange can not move its place of meeting within tliejurisdic- tioii of another Grange, without the consent of the Grange whose jurisdic- tion is thus infringed up0n.——[Decis. 17, 5 A Grange can not have two places of meeting and claim jurisdiction from both as eenters.—[Decis. 18. 6 The area embraced within thejuris- diction of the Subordinate Grange may be fixed by the State Grange.—[Proceed- ings 7th Session, p. 77, 7 The jurisdiction of Granges does not cross State lines. If a person wish- es tojoin a Grange in another State he must obtain permission from the Graiige in whose jurisdiction he resides.——[De- cisioii 49. V 8 A Grange can not change its name or number after its Charter has been issued.——[Proc. 8th Ses., pp. 91 and 140. 9 A Grange can not divide into two Granges and divide the property ——[De- cision 29. 10 A quorum is the least number with which a Grange can be opened in due form, and should be prescribed in the By-laws of every Subordinate Grange. If not so prescribed, thirteen members shall constitute a quorum.-—-[Par-1iamen_ tary Guide, p. 5. SECTION IV. 01-‘ MEMBERSHIP IN THE SUB()Rl)INA'1‘]-1 GRANGE. a. Who may be A(lmt'tlecl. 1. Any person engaged in agricultu- ~—~ ~——‘ ral pursuits, and having no interest in conflict with the purposes of the Order, of the age of sixteen years, is eligible to membership —[Cons., art. v. 2 “Interested in agricultural put‘. suits” and “engaged in agricultural pursuits,” as used in tlie_Constitution and resolutions of the National Grange, mean that a person must be engaged in agriculture to a greater _extent than in any other business, or in other words, his leading business must be agricul- ture.—[Decis. 110. 3 Agricultural laborers clearly come under our requirements, “engaged in agricultural pursuits,”_ and are eligible to membership.——[Decis. 111. 4 No one can be held to be ineligible to membersliip in the Order on account of religious beliefor political opinions. —[Decis. 31. Cons., art. X1. 5 Blindness does not render a person ineligible to membership.—[Dec. 32. 6. A married woman whose husband is eligible, but not a member of the Or- der, may be admitted to membership. —[Decis. b. IIow .llcmbe7'sl1£p is A cquirczl. 7 Applications for membership must be by written petition, signed by the candidate, and approved by at least two members ——[Cons., art. v. 8 Every application must be acconi- panied by the fee of membership; if rejected, the money will be refunded, and a second application will not be re- ceived from the same person until after six months.—[Cons., art. v. 9 No person can be admitted to inem- bership free.—[Decis. 13. Const., arts. v and vi. 10 The entire membership fee must accompany the petition, and can be di- vided among the several degrees.—[De- cision 1-1. 11 A Grange can not vote to return to a member any portion of the member- ship fee.—[Decis. 15. 12 Committees on candidates should be appointed, and all applications refer- red thereto at the same meeting that the application is received.——[Decis. 79, Pro. 8th Ses., p. 141. 13 A Grange can not ballot upon an application for membership at the same meeting when it is received.—[Dec. 23. 1-1 It is not allowable for a Grange to discuss the merits or demerits of a can- didate.— [Dec. 10. 15 The application of a candidate can be withdrawn at any time before a bal- lot is ordered thereon.—[Dec. 45. 16 A candidate should be allowed to withdraw at any time before a ballot is taken.—[Pro. 8th Ses., pp. 91 and 1-11. 17 After a candidate has been legally elected he is entitled to initiation, and the degree must be conferred unless ob- jection is made, the nature of the objec- tion stated, and the objection sustained by a majority of the Gi'ange.—[Dee. 46. 18 The Master should not allow a bal- lot to be taken on the application of a person who from any cause is ineligible to membership. But if such a person has been balloted for and elected, the Master has no right to initiate him, and would by so doing render himself liable to expulsion for having violated the laws he was obligated to enforce and obey.——[Decision 70. 19 If an applicant is balloted for whose fee does not accompany the petition, and is elected, the election is illegal and the degrees should not be conferred; if rejected, the rejection is illegal and the applicant may apply again at any time. ——[Deeision 41. 20 A ballot must be held upon an ap- plication whether the report of the com- mittee is favorable or unfavorable.— [Decision 43. 21 In balloting for candidates the bal- lot is secret, and no member can be re- quired to tell how he voted.—[Dee. 12. _ 22 A Grange can not ballot for more than one candidate at the same time: each must be balloted for separately.— [Decision 25. 23 A member must not disclose out- side of the Grange the result of an un- favorable ballot.—-[Dec 44. 24 VVhen a candidate is being ballot- ed for and exactly three black balls 31)‘ P931‘, the Master must say, “Lest a member may have cast a ballot careless- ly or by mistake, the ballot will be Passed again,” whereupon another bal- lot will be immediately taken. If three black balls again appear, the candidate is rejected, and the ballot can not be recon- sidered or repeated.—[Dec. 69. 23 After an applicant has been reject- ed. if a member voluntarily declares that he cast a black ball by mistake, the Master may immediately order another bal‘lot.—[Dec. 42. 26 A member is only balloted for once, and that is before receiving the First Degree.-—[Dec. 40. 27 A person who is elected to mem- bership iii any manner other than by ballot is not legally elected.—[Dec. 19. 28 When an application is duly made for membership in a Subordinate Grange, the membership fee paid, and the appli- cant is declared duly elected, ‘the Sub- ordinate Grange can not permit the ap- plication to be withdrawn, bef0l'e»lIll[1- ation.—[Pro. Stli Ses., pp. 91 and 143. 29 \Vhen an application is duly made fo r membership in a Subordinate Grange, the membership fee paid, and the applicantis declared duly elected, the Subordinate Grange can not order the fee to be refunded before initiation, on the written request of the applicant to be allowed to withdraw his applica- tion aiid to have his membership fee refunded.—[Pro. 8th Ses., pp. 91 and 143. 30 \Vhen an application for member- ship is duly made in a Subordinate Grange, and the money to pay the mem- bership fee is advanced by a member of the Grange, and the applicant is declar- ed duly elected, but is not initiated, and afterwards makes written application to the Grange to withdraw his applica- tion for membership and to have his membership fee refunded, the Grange can not, by vote, permit the application to be withdrawn and order the fee to be refunded to the member who advanced the same.—[Pro. 8th Ses., pp. 91 and 1-13. 31 \Vhen a member advances the money to pay the membership fee for an applicant, it must be considered a loan of money to the applicant, and not to the Grange; and the member must look to the applicant for repayment, and not to the Grange.-—[Pro. 8th Ses., pp. 91 and 1-13. '2 An applicant for initiation, who has been duly elected, may be debarred from initiation by an objection therto in writing, signed by three members of the Grange, to be filed with the Score- tary, which objection must state that the cause thereof has arisen since the date of the applicant’s electioii.—[Pro. 9th Ses., p. 140. 33 \Vhen an applicant for meniber- ship, who has been duly elected, has bor- rowed the money of a member of the Grange to pay the membership fee, and neglects and declines to repay the same, although able to do so, should be ex- pe1led.——[l’ro. 8th Ses., pp. 91 and 1-14. 3-1 A Grange may ballot for a candid- ate and confer the First Degree upon him at the same mecting.—[Dec. 24. 35 If, after being elected, a candidate fails to present himself for initiation, the Grange is under no obligation to re- turn the fee.—[Dec. -18. c. Incidents of 1lIemberslu'p—J2'i,(/Ills and Duties. '36 Membersliip commences at the time a person takes the First Degree.— [Decision 3-1. ‘_37 After an applicant has received the I irs_t Degree, he is entitled to all the pe- cuniary and other benefits to be derived from a connection with the Order, and therefore is subject to the payment of the same dues as other members, witli- out reference to the time of his receiv- ing the other degrees.—-[Decision 35 38 After a member has received one or more degrees he is entitled to ad- vancement, unless charges are preferred against him, and he is expelled from the Order —[Decision 47. 39 A member who has received one degree, and refuses to take more, must be retained on the roll until ex- pelled or dropped from the roll by ac- tion of the Grange.——Pro. 8th Session, pp. 91 and 141. 40 A person can not ‘be a member of nfiore than_one Subordinate Grange at t e same time.——Decisioii 51. 41 A person who has fawfully become iiisnember of the Order does not forfeit ‘membership by changing his occu- P331011. if his conduct continues to be such as becomes a_good Patron, and is not hostile to the interests and ob'ects of the Order.——[Decision 56. J I 42 when 3-Person who is ineligible 011 800011111: of occupation has been ad- mitted; heisa member until expelled §&%<)%fiin?g:§:—[rroceeaings 8th Ses., 3 hen a new G ' - and includes in its juii:dgigt1ih3r§a$§;SI ber of another grange, such member is not obliged to withdraw from his old Grange to join the new one.—[Pi-o gm beat, pp. 91 and 141. ' . suspended member can not be Einlptted to the meetings of a Grange. [512 8th Ses., pp. 91 and 142. member can not remain in the Grange when it is open in a higher de- gree than such member has taken.- [Decisioii 52. <16. A member can not be required to do anything in conflict with his relig- ious convictions. The exemption in the obligation and the Ritual upon this point only means that whenever a member approaches any duty properly required of him, and his religious con- victions will not permit its performe,anc he can withdraw with honor; but so long as he holds a position in the Grange he must perform the duties thereof, in accordance with the laws and usages of the Ordei'.—[Decision 11-1. 47 Members of our Order have the same right to accept civil otlice as any other person, but it is unlawful for Granges as such to take political action by making nominations.—[Decis. 113. 48 Members must be attired in the proper regalia of the Order while the Grange is in session. The sash is worn from the right shoulder to the left hip, and the pouch in front.—[Dccis. 57. 49 The wearing of the prescribed re- galia is one of the established usages of the Order, and is obligatory upon all members, except when a member claims exemption on account of religious con- victions, \-rhen he may be excused by vote of the Grange.—- [Proc. 8th Ses., pp. 91 and 1-12. 50 Members of a suspended Grange can not form another Grange.—[Proc. Sth Ses., pp. 91 and 1-11. 51. A member in good standing, who is clear on the books, is entitled to a dimit or withdrawal card on applica- tion therefor, and the payment of such sum (ifaiiy) as is fixed by the State Grange. A member not in good stand- ing caii not be diinited —-[Decis. 59. 52 A member is entitled at any time toa dimit as a matter of right, if in good standing and clear on the books. No member can object without preferr- ing charges against the applicant. If, however, the Grange wrongfully with- holds or refuses the (limit, the aggrieved member may appeal to the Master of the State Grange, who will instruct the Grange in its duty; and in case ofa persistcntrefusal, he will issue to the appealing nieinber a certificate in the nature of a dimit, under seal of the State Grange. It will be his duty to present the offending Grange to the State Grange at its next session.—[De- cision 6:2. 53 A dimit simply disconnects amein- ber from a Subordinate Grange, leaving him still a member of the Order. A withdrawal severs his connection from the Order wholly.—[Proc. 8th Ses., pp. 91 and 1-10. 5-1 A dimit can be given at any regu- lar meeting. It is not necessary that the application therefor lie over.—[Pro. Sth Ses., pp. 91 and 1-10. If a member who has received one or more degrees in a Grange moves into thejurisdiction of another Grange, he may if he desires, receive a dimit from his Grange and join the one nearest him, taking the same position as in his old Grange, and is entitled to advance- ment.—[Proc. 9th Ses., pp. 91 and 111. 56 The manner of receiving dimitted members into Subordinate Granges should be prescribed by the State Grange; when not so regulated, the Master of the State Grange will direct how it shall be done.——[Dec. 6-1. 57 A dimitted member can not be re- ceived as a Charter member in another Grange without the payment of the full Charter fee.——[Dec. 60. 58 A member receiving a dimit is not entitled, upon thus severing his mem- bership, to receive any portion of the funds or property of the Grange.—[De- cision 61. 59 In case of the forfeiture or sus- pension of the Charter of a Grange, the members thereof become thereby unaf- filiated, and can join any other Grange (the same as though they had become unaffiliated by dimit or voluntary with- drawal) in the following manner: The Grange, being extinct, can of course is- sue no dimit to its surviving members. The members will, therefore, pay into the treasury of the State Grange the amount due by each to the Subordinate Grange at the time of its suspension, if any. The Secretary of the State Grange will then issue to each membera certifi- cate of the fact that their Grange has ceased to exist, that the member was in good standing at the time of its suspen- sion, and was either clear of the books or has since paid his arrearages to the State Grange. This certificate should be deposited, with the application for aflfiliation, in the place of a dimit, with the Grange which the holder desires to join.—[Decis. 87. THE GRX1\"T‘(-iii." ‘x7i‘sl’i’i‘o*iil.' 1 SECTION V. RE\'El\'l.'I§S OF THE SI.'I3ORDI.\'A'I‘l~I GRANGE. u. Dues and Fees of Ilfembers. 1 The revenues of the Subordinate Grange are derived from two sources- First—Iniliati0n fees, which are: for men, three dollars, and for women, one dollar; except for C/tartar meni- bers, who pa_v—men, three dollars, and women, fifty cents.—[Cons. art. 6. Second—A_ monthly due of ten cents from.each member. The Grange may increase, but can not reduce the monthly due.—[Cons. art. vii, sec. 1. 2 Members who have taken only one degree are subject to the payment of dues the same as other members, with- out reference to the time of taking the other degrees.—-[Decis. 3-3. 3. A member does not pay monthly dues to his Subordinate Grange for the fractional part of the month in which he is initiated, but from the first of the subsequent month.—[Decis. 36. -1 A Grange may suspend members from membership for non-payment of dues.—[Decis. 37. 5 Suspension from membership does not excuse the suspended member from payment of dues during the time of suspension.—[Decis. 38. 6 A member suspended for non-pay- ment of dues can be reinstated by the Grange upon payment of all dues up to the date of reinstatement. This rule does not prevent Subordinate Granges from adopting By-laws terminating the membership, or prescribing other con- ditions of reinstatement, after the mem- ber has been delinquent a specified time.—[Decis. 39. b. Dues to the Slale Grange. 4. The Subordinate Grange pays to the State Grange such an amount of dues on each member, and fees for each person initiated during the quarter, as the State Grange may determine.-— [Cons., art. viii, sec. 2. 8 The financial reports of Subordin- ate Granges shall be made on the first day of January, the first (lay of April, the first day of July, and the first day of October.—[By-laws, art. x, sec. 1. 9 A Subordinate Grange does not pay dues to a State Grange for the time prior to the organization of the State Grange. VVhen a State Grange is organized dur- ing a quarter, all Subordinate Granges organized previous to the commence- ment of that quarter must report at the end of the quarter. This report does not include quarterly dues. Member- ship fees of those initiated after the or- ganization of the State Grange only are to be paid.—[Decis. 83. 10 Subordinate Granges are exempt from the payment of membership fees to the State Grange on account of Char- ter menibers.——[Decis. 84. SECTION VI. or THE OFFICERS on THE SL'BOR1)I.\'- ATE GRANGE. a. l/Vho are Eligible to Ofiice. [See articles under this head in Chap- ter I, Section 3, which are alike appli- cable to the ofiicers of a Subordinate Grange.] 1). Of their Election and Installation. 1 Ofiicers must be elected at the regu- lar meeting in December, or as soon thereafter as practicable.-[Constitution art. i, see. 2. 2 Officers must be installed at the reg- ular meeting in January, or as soon thereafter as practicable.—[Cons., art. i, see. 1. 3 Any member of a State Grange, or Fifth-degree member, is competent to install the officers of a Subordinate or County Grange.—[Decis. 85. Proc. 10th Ses., p. 117. [See this head under Chapter I, See. 3, for other articles applicable to the election and installation of oflicers in the Subordinate Grange.] c. Term of Oflice. -1 All oflicers in the Subordinate Grange hold their offices for the term of one year.—[Cons., art. i, see. 2. (1. Their Rank and Title. [The officers of t h e Subordinate Grange have the same rank and title as in the National and State Granges. See Chapter I, Section 3.] e. Their Powers and Duties. 5 The duties of otficers in a. Subor- dinate Grange (in addition to such as are required by the Constitution and laws of the National Grange) should be prescribed by the laws of the Subordin- ate Grange.—[Cons., art. ix. 6 The Master should decide all. ques- tions of law and usage arising in his Grange, subject to an appeal to the 3 Master of the State Grange.——[By-laws, art. iii, sec. 1. 7 In the exemplification of the secret work or the interpretation of the writ- ten law of the Order, the decisions of the Master must be respected and obey- ed until reversed by decision of the Master of the State or National Grange, or by action of the State or National Grange:-—[Proc. 8th Ses., p. 1-11. Dec. (57. S The Master of a Suborbinate Grange should decide a motion out of order when it is plainly in violation of the Constitution, rules, and regulations of the National, State, or Subordinate Grange. \Vhen such motion is declar- ed out of order by the Master of the Subordinate Grange, and the Grange overrules his decision, the Master should appeal to the Master of the State Grange, and, if necessary, to the Mas- ter and Executive Committee of the National Grange. When an appeal is taken, no action should be allowed by the Grange, in the premises, until the questions are finally decided.— [Proc. 8th Ses,, pp. 91 and 144. 9 The Master must approve bills be- fore they can be paid by the Treasurer. —[Cons., art. x, sec. 2. 10 TheMasterofaSubordinate Grange should not sign an order to draw money from the Treasury of his Grange unless he approves the saine.—[Proe. 9th Ses., pp. 91 and 1-13. 11 The Secretary must make quarter- terly reports to the Secretary of the State Gr-ange.—[Cons., art. vii, sec. 2. 12 Every sentence of suspension or expulsion of a member should be ini- mediately reported to the Secretary of the State Grange, and all the neighbor- ing Granges; and upon his removal, the Granges near his new residence should be notified, in order that they may not be imposed upon.—[Dec. S8. 13 The Overseer has the right to re- fuse permission to retire from the Grange by refusing to return the salu- tati0n.—[Decis. 72. [The respective duties of the Lectur- er, Steward, Assistant Steward, Chap- lain, Flora, Pomona, and Ceres are defined in the Ritual.] 14 The duties of the Executive Coin- niittee ot' a Subordinate Grange may be prescribed by the Grange itself, unless already defined by the State Grange.-— [Dec. 76. [For other duties of oflicers, see Chap- ter I, Section 3.] f. Ifow They may be Tried and Re- moved. 1-'3 Ifa Master ofa Subordinate Grange refuses to obey the By—laws of his Grange, or his conduct is prejudicial to the good of the Order, the Grange may present the fact to the Master of the State Grange, who after full investiga- tion, may suspend the ofi"ending Master until the meeting of the State Grange. —[Decision 10-3. 16 The Master of a State Grange has no authority to suspend from otfice any otficer of a Subordinate Grange except the Master.—[Decision Court of Ap- peals, Pro. 9th Ses., p. 202. 17 Officers of Subordinate Granges, except Masters and their wives who are Matrons, are amenable to their respec- tive Granges.—[Proc. 10th Ses., p. 118. Decision 10-1. 18 \Vhen any officer (except the Mas- ter) fails or refuses to properly perform the duties of his office, he may be sus- pended or removed, after a fair trial, by vote of the Grange.——[Decis. 107. g. Vacancies. 19 In case the Master of a Grange is suspended, the otlice does not become vacant, to be filled by an election, but the Overseer, in virtue of his office, acts as Master until final action by the State Grange. If the act of suspension be sustained or the Master be expelled by the State Grange, the vacancy thus created must be filled by an election.— [Decision 106. 20 Vacancies by death or resignation must be filled by special election at the next regular meeting; officers so chos- en serve until the annual ineeting.— [Constitution, art. i, sec. 2. State Wool (;‘irolwei's"f(l0ni'cntion.A A general convention of the farm- ers and wool-growers of Michigan will be held at the court-house at Kal- amazoo, on the 9th day of April next, at 10 A. M. We hope for a. full at- tendance from throughout the State as business of vital importance to wool-growers will be discussed at the time. BY ORDER or Conmrrsn. s THE GRANGE VISITOR. SCHOOLCRAFT, APRIL 1, 1878. §etr2tarp's gepartment. J. T. COBB, - SCHOOLCRAFT. Officers and members of Subordinate Granges in corresponding with this office, will please always give the Number of their Grange. BLANKS. Blanks that are sent free from this oflice on application are : Blank Quarterly Reports of Secretaries of Sub- ordinate Graiiges. Blank Quarterly Reports of Secretaries of P0- mona Granges. Blank application for Granges. Blank applications for Membership in Pomona Granges. Blank Bonds of Secretary and Treasurer. Blank Election Reports of Sub. Granges. Blank Certificates of Election to County Convention. Blank Certificates of Representatives elected to the State Grange. Blanks for Consolidation of Granges. Blank Applications for Certificate of Dimit. Blank Plaster Orders. Blank Certificates of Incorporation. or anizin Pomona 3 T() CORRESPONDENTS. We would say, your articles are not rejected, but this thing won’t hold only full. When through with the “Digest” your chances will improve. if we are not driven back to a Monthly. WE have received a valuable article from Bro. Childs, upon an important subject to farmers, “ Why Plant an Orchard, and How to Cultivate it.” We much regret that it was not received until enough matter had been put in type for this number. But its useful hints and definite instruction will not be too late for application two weeks later in the season. Let all who are thinking of setting trees this Spring, remember and make a note of this. Meeting of the Executive Committee. A called meeting of the Executive Committee was held at the Lansing House, in the City of Lansing, on the 12th and 13th of March, at which all the members were present. Several cases of appeal were presented by the Master of the State Grange and disposed of by this Grange Court, with fewer references to precedents a hundred years old than is common in the courts of our State. If we did not have so much law, precedent, and technicality as consume the time of courts and clients, we believe we had the object more clearly in view than is usual, where a difference is sub- mitted to those tribunals of justice known as courts. But of this subject —-the courts and their machinery_ we shall have something to say at some future time. The appeal cases disposed of, THE GRANGE VISITOR demanded atten- tion, and the result appears on the first page. To the facts there stated we have little to add. We are sure that this VISITOR only needs the at- tention of its friends to secure the required support. We do not sum}, for want of contributors, particularly from the Sisters, for its pages, but we do lack subscribers and the pay for the paper. For these we must de. pend on its friends——friends of the Order. That our noble Order will ‘be strengthened, and its aims and objects promoted and sooner reached if the family of every Patron in the State should regularly read the VISITOR, no one will doubt. Patrons, what will you do about it ? The next important question con- sidered, was that of the employment of a State Agent, to be located at De- troit- A demand for an Agent so located, has been pressed upon the attention of each succeeding State THE GRANGE VlSIT(.)R. ter took the form of definite and posi- tive instruction to the Executive Committee at the last session, with only one condition, that of obtaining “a competent and suitable person.” Mr. J. M. Chidester, a gentleman of large mercantile experience and fa- niiliarly acquainted with Detroit and many of its business men, was pres- ent b invitation. Th: result of the conference with him was to commit the whole matter to Bros. Holloway, Childs and Wood- ward. This sub-committee have since perfected arrangements with Mr. Chidester, and he will commence operations April lst. 'Jhe establish- in of a State Business Agency in Degtroit, for the purpose of both buy- ing and selling for the Patrons of the State, does not necessarily sever the connection of Bro. Gardner from the State Agency. Bro. Gradner has still a good as- sortment of Groceries, Boots and Shoes, Dry Goods, and Farm Imple- ments, that he will continue to sell to Patrons as heretofore, at cost, and those living in the Western part of the State should continue to order of Bro. Gardner so long as he is able to sup- ply the demand. Plaster. Since the last issue of the VISITOR, we have received a circular headed, "Plastei-——To Dealers and Consumers.” Signed, “Grand Rapids Plaster C0,, Wm. Hovey, Agent.” After reading this circular a couple of times, we find ourselves quite un- able to determine whether the circu- lar, or any part of it, is aimed at us, and We feel that in referring to it we are, perhaps, “ mixing in” without in- vitation. But we shall venture, in view of the fact that we have from time to time, for some three years past, had our say upon the plaster question, to refer to this circular, and treat the matter as though we had not been forgotten by its author. From the friendly personal rela- tions that have existed for some years between Mr. Hovey and myself, I can hardly think that he intended to as- sume that I have intentionally,through the VISITOR, done him any injustice. The circular opens with adeclaration, followed by specifications, and then puts in a general denial, seasoned with a little sharp English, such as people are apt to use when their temper gets the better of their judgment, and con- cludes by falling back on acquired reputation, with an invitation for all to come and see his works. The cir- cular opens: “On account of some malicious pub- lications in different portions of the State of Michigan, in regard to the quality of our plaster, we feel that it is justice to ourselves, dealers and con- sumers, to contradict some of the asser- tions: “First. The assertion that we carried over a lot of ground plaster, and are pulverizing and selling it as FRESH ground, is utterly false. “Second. The assertion that we select our best rock for stucco, and ship the next best to be ground elsewhere, is equally untrue.” Now, we don’t know who has assail- ed Bro. Hovey or his business, and we can hardly believe that the publica- tions referred to justify the strong language used ; but in this we may be mistaken, as we read but a littte of what is published in the State. To so much (if any) as was intend- ed for us, we plead “not guilty,” and refer with pleasure v to our record- on this subject, in the VISITOR, in sup- port of our innocence. It is true We have stated that there was an association or combination of all the manufacturers of plaster in Michigan and neighboring States, Grange for three years, and the mat- something over three years ago, which fixed the price of land plaster at $4 per ton. It is also true that we pro- posed to the association to use our best endeavors, through the VISITOR and by circular, to induce the Patrons of the State to buy p_1aste!‘ Of the association, and pay $345 per ton for the same. . This proposition was not only re- jected, but the association “Went back” on a. proposition of its own, “ To treat farmers just as W611 3-8 their own agents and dealers,” by re- turning orders for plaster under seal of the Grange, when not accompanied with cash for advance payII1_e_nt- Thls shameful attempt to humiliate the farmers of Michigan, through whose patronage members of the association had become rich, by dishonoring their orders, was adding an insult to the little falsehood proclaimed by the association, and insisted on by each member, that $4 per ton was but a fair and reasonable price for plaster at the mill. When, in a legitimate manner, some of the farmers of the State were found associated together, and were procuring plaster at $3 per ton, these manufacturers concluded they could afford it for $2.; and now that we have agreed to pay Day & Taylor $2, these $4 men can afford it for $1.50 per ton. As to the first specification, it has not come to our knowledge that any body has charged Mr. Hovey with “carrying over a. large quantity of ground plaster.” We have asserted what Mr. Hovey knows to be true, that in the winter of 1876 a large amount of plaster was ground at mills in the Grand River Valley that was not sold that season, and that some of that, carried over, was found in the winter and spring of 1877 in a solid, compact mass, that could be shoveled with the same facility that leeched ashes are handled. Not knowing, we have not said that Mr. Hovey had any stock of this or any other kind. In his circular he has made the point quite as strong as we ever have in -favor of fresh ground plaster, declaring “that he has none on hand ground prior to Jan. 10th, 1878.” The look of injured innocence on the face of this Circular, is laughable, to say the least, when put on two years after we charged the Association with manufacturing a large amount of plas- ter that they did not and could not sell to Patrons at $4.00 per ton. The manufacturers of plaster in the Grand River Valley who have not gone to the wall, seem intent on breaking down the Grange Plaster Mill, and it is perhaps to be a trial of strength and endurance. ‘V6 are not disposed to give up a contest that was forced upon us. The interests of the many are vastly superior to the interest of afew. The Agricultural interests of Michigan are promoted by this prolonged endeavor in the face of an expensive experience, to force this business back into the old channels with old prices. We have no faith in this persistent attempt to make water run up hill, and we believe the farmers of Michi- gan are sagacious enough to take care of their own business. As we stated at the outset, our personal re- lations with Mr. Hovey are pleasant and friendly, and so have they been with all the gentlemen of the combi- nation that we have met. We have entertained a different opinion from them in this business matter. We think they made a mistake in combin- ing against their customers in the fix-st place, and refusing to deal with them upon terms as favorable as with intermediate parties. We think their attempt to crush out Day & Taylor with low prices, and their repeated Patrons to dishonor themselves and the Order, are also mistakes; and we think Bro. Hovey has made another mistake in sending out this circular. VVe have the satisfaction of know- ing that every one of those manufac- turers admits our first statement, that the combination was a mistake, and we think the gentlemen won’t have to live much longer to discover that their whole treatment of the Order of Patrons of Husbandry has been a succession of mistakes. In conclu sion, I have only to say that if my friend Hovey did not by his circular, intend to hit me, I beg pardon for reminding him of these few facts. which are none the less true because some of them are getting a little old. BLANKS for Seci'etary’s Quarterly Reports were sent last week. to an Grange Secretaries, whose election has been reported at this office. If any fail to receive, please order. SOUTH JEFFERSON, March 2d, ’7S. Bro. J. T. Cobb .- DEAR S1R,—I think you will bear witness that our Grange has not ii the past demanded much space in th col- umns or the VISITOR. 'I‘herefore I feel much confidence in askinga little space in your paper,.to make an inquiry among the Patrons of the State in rela- tion to paying the revenue tax as re- tailers of manufactured tobacco. How far they are liable for :the tax, is being felt of very much importance. It is a well known fact that many Granges believe that while they order tobacco through their Secretary, and deal it out to none but members of their Grange without profit, and for their own individual use, they are in no way liable to the tax. However, our reve- nue collector from this (third) district takes another view of the case, and de- mands the tax. As our Grange did not feel much confidence in his decision, I wrote the Commissioner of Internal Revenue at Washington, and after ac- knowledging the receipt of my letter he wrote as follows: “ In answer to your inquiry I would say, that where several persons unite in purchasing a caddy or package of to- bacco for their own use, each at the time ofso doing, writing stipulations for a cer- tain amount, which, upon its receipt, is delivered to him, no liability to special tax is incurred. In such case there is simply a partition of tobacco owned in common. “But where the association purchases aquantity of tobacco with the under- standing that each member may have from time to time such quantity as he may wish, by paying therefor a price sufiicient to cover original cost and ex- penses, there would be a sale within the meaning of the law and liability to special tax incurred.” Such is the"opinion of Commissioner Raum, still it is not entirely convincing us that the law otficer intended to give the above definition as toa retailer of manufactured tobacco. Ithas long been an admitted fact that the law has been administered somewhat on the India- rubber plan, if it did not quite reach its subject it was stretched so as to exactly cover him. We make no objection to a strict con- formity with the law, but strongly deprecate this stretching process. Our points of objection to the decision given above we shall reserve to some future time, meanwhile I would like to hear the experience and opinion of others in this matter. _ Allow me to add in conclusion, that in my opinion the Granges in Hillsdale County were never, since their organiz- ation, in a more prosperous couditioii than to-day. Several Granges, which were supposed to be about dead, have revived and put on a smog and healthy appearance and are doing good work. ANDREW L. DAVIS, Sec’y Grange N 0. 18:2. —A clergyman over to Lewiston has been lecturing on “Seventeen reasons who men don't go to Church.” There is but one reason why women don’t go—they “have nothing to Wear.’’— Gardiner Home Journal. ——Breeches of trust—Those the tailor isn’t paid for. —What is the best thing to do in and combined attempts to induce a hurry‘? Nothing. - _ _ ~___.,.._......,..— 44 ? TI-IE GRANGE VISITOR. 5 gcctitrers Qrpartinrut. MUSKEGON. C. L. \VHlTNEY, - ' ' In the Field. Two Pomona Granges have been duly instituted since the last issue of this little sheet, as we here note: On the 12th instant We met Bro. H. A. l)anville, at Manton Station, on the G. R & I. R. R., and after a ride of 18 miles reached Bro. Dean’s, at Sherman, where we took tea at the hospitable board presided over by Sister Dean. The inner man satisfied, we were soon en route, with a fresh team, to Bro. Danvillc‘s home in Marilla, 16 miles further, which we reached a little after midnight, and rested until morning. After an early breakfast, at which we met Bro. Carpenter and wife, Bro. Dean, of Sherman, and a party of nine, with four teams; we were on our way, through the forest, to Bear Lake, the place of meeting. None but resi- dents or woodsmen could ever have found the road, which often lost itself in the trackless pine timber or wound among the giant groves of ancient maples, and the huge trunks of aged elms, hid to their knees in the fern and yew. Eighteen miles of this, and we thought the old tables in the arith- metic must have been wrong, for each mile here had 400 rods and each rod 20 feet. Think, my easy Patron friend, of the hardship it is for you to go two or three miles to a Grange meeting on a smooth road, and here these roads and distances are often passed and repassed by the earnest Patrons who live here, visiting and re- visiting each othcr’s Grange, while many a Patron who lives eight to ten miles from his Granges’ place of meeting, never miss a meeting. The sun had just passed the merid- ian as we reached the home of Bro. McDarmid, of Pleasanton Grange, a home to which Patrons are ever wel- come,—we wish that many of our fel- low laborers, and especially those who think so lightly of beautiful home surroundings, could see what a little good taste and energy could do even in the wilderness, to make home and its surroundings attractive and plea- sant within as well as without, and no hired time-servants to do it either; but willing hearts and ever ready hands do well whatever they attempt. Two o'clock r. M. found us at the Hall of Bear Lake Grange, where we met Bro. S. Steel, W. C. of the State Grange, and his wife, and brothers and sisters of Cleon and other Granges. Manistee District Grange, No. 21, of Manistee and Wexford Counties, was duly instituted with the follow- ing officers: M.—H. A. Danville, Marilla. O.—Jaines McDarmid. L.——Adelaide Steele, Bear Lake. S.—I. N. Carpenter. A. S.—J. W. Robinson. C.—Salmon Steele. T.--Jacob Scars. Secretary — Jennie Pope, Marilla. G. K.—A. D. Shurtliff. C.——Mary McDarmid. C.——Anna Carpenter. F.——Millie Richmond. L. A. S —Ade1aide Higby. And an executive committee of three members; besides the Master and Sec- retary, as ex ofiicio. A large and _intelligent audience filled the hall in the evening and listened to a two hours’ address with earnest attention. . _We spent the night at Bro. McDar- mid s, and on the morrow took our Way towards Sherman. The dinner hour found us at Bro. Danville’s and We drank tea with a number of the brothers and sisters at Bro. Taylor’s, near Sherman. Of course we were tired from our long ride, but the evening repast, and the enthusiastic meeting at the Grange Hall at Sher- man, made us forget even weariness. At the appointed hour the Sherman Cornet Band led the column of Pa- trons as they marched from the Hall to the new Court Housc,_which was well filled by Patrons and citizens, who listened to a long address with excellent attention. At this meeting were Patrons from Marilla, Cleon, and Silver Lake Granges, many of whom had come from 12 to 16 miles. Thus closed our pleasant visit, and we shall ever remember it, and es- pecially those who so much minister- ed to our comfort and pleasure,-even the sister whose bouquet gift we still preserve. May we all meet again. On the 20th inst. we again took the train and spent a pleasant evening at the home of Bro. Shurtz, of White Pigeon, en route for Coldwatcr. An early breakfast, and a short ride by rail brought us to Coldwater and in the possession of Gen. John G. Park- liurst, VV. M. of Batavia Grange.- Rain, cold winter rain, attended us, as, with Brother and Sister Parkhurst, we went to the Grange Hall, a little out of town. at the residence of Bro. Williams. The attendance was greater than we had expected under so un- favorable circumstances, and Branch County Pomona Grange, No. 22, was duly installed, with the following offi- cers: Henry George, Coldwater, Master. Darwin Thompson, Overseer. John G. Parkliurst, Lecturer. C. H. Austin, Steward. J. C. Pierce, Assistant Steward. J. H. Jones, Chaplain. Geo. VV. Van Aiken, Treasurer. Wallace E. Wright, Coldwatcr, Sec- retary. John Bell, Gate Keeper. Harriet Pierce, Pomona. Mrs. Joseph, Ceres. Mrs. B‘. J. Parkhurst, Flora. Mrs. E. A Horton, L. A. S. Wm. Joseph, G. VV. Van Aiken, Eli Bidleman, and D. Thompson, with the Master and Secretary, constitute the Executive Committee. . Our work completed, Sister Wil- liams invited us to a beautiful refresh- ment,=which all enjoyed, thanking the hostess in their hearts as well as by formal vote. In haste we close, lest we be too late for the press. THE wool growing industry of Michigan ranks third in importance among other WOOl growing states. Action has just been taken and an association of Michigan wool growers established to improve the quality and enlarge the quantity of wool grown. The encouragement which the Grov- ernment affords to this wl1o‘esome enterprise is exhibited in its usual way. It is proposed to throw open this industry now to foreign producers by a reduction of the tarifi‘, so that American wool raisers may be afford- ed an opportunity of converting their sheep into glue or guano and thus show in some direction the energy of American character and the loving wisdom of that unerring free trade policy that is everlastingly flail- ing its own children While reserving the smiling side of its countenance for foreign mutton. We hope yet to see American statesmen “return to their first love,” their country, and be led to wisely support their home in- dustries.—-Jlfich. I'a7'mer. An Aroostook schoolmaster recent- ly delivered a lecture on the subject of “Hash.” In boarding around he had learned how to treat the subject, to a hair. ggenfs éepartmenf. gfafe J. II. GARDNER, ; VCENTBEVILLE. Salt at Saginaw is now offered at 700 per bbl., and No. 1, in bulk, for 5,5; and No. 2 for $3.50 a ton in the car. A car-load is 80 bbls., or the same weight in bulk. A car can be loaded with part in barrels and part in bulk, if desired. Some that have applied it with plaster on oats, report very favor able results by increasing the yield. It may be well for some to give it a trial in a small way at first, to ascer- tain its benefit; as it may favorably effect some soils and not others, which can only be learned by its application and noting carefully the result. I have offers of wooden pumps at low prices, which will be furnished on application; either for a single one or by the quantity. Kalamazoo Diamond Iron plows, and Battle Creek chilled plows on hand. Prices, $9 for the Diamond Iron, and $8 for the Battle Creek chilled, with clevis; wheel and jointer $2.50 extra. Steel drag teeth, either 5-8th or 6-8th inch square, at fie a lb. Also, No. 8 or 9 annealed fence wire at 50, and No, 11 at Gc a lb. The Climax reaper and mower are offered at reduced rates, when money is sent with orders; prices given on written application. Clover seed is firm and has advanc- ed to $4.50 and $5.00, and Timothy is $1.50 a bushel at Chicago. I have a lot of snow flake potatoes, selected for seed, at $1.20 a barrel de- livered at the railroad here, free of cartage, which I can forward to all wanting to try this new variety, claim- ed to be superior to the early rose. My stock of groceries and boots and shoes is yet ample to fill all or- ders; also, most kinds of domestic dry goods on h.-ind, which I can send on application. Black walnut extension tables are yet sold at 800 a foot, and good team harness, white trimmed, for $24, war- ranted to give satisfaction. Lumber, shingles and lath sent on orders direct from the mills. Pine fencing is $8 a thousand; 16-inch star shingles, $2 a thousand. Prices of bill lumber furnished on application. Oils, paints, glass, nails, iron and hardware at wholesale, from jobbers, at market rates. “The Material 01' the Grange.” Bro. Cobb : . I would like to say a few words in regard to M. Fosdick’s coinmunica— tion in the 2d February number of the VISITOR, wherein he complains bitterly of the material composing the Grange, and that many Granges are running down and dying in conse- quence of the financial crookedness of its members. Now, the Grange, in my opinion, is a great school for the education of the people, and the Patrons’ Declaration of Principles says what that educa- tion shall be, viz: “ VVe shall endeavor to advance our cause by laboring to accomplish the following objects: “ To develop a better manhood and womanhood among ourselves. “ To reduce our expenses, both in- dividual and corporate. “ To buy less and produce more, in order to make our farms self-sustain- H10‘. :5‘ To discountenance the credit sys- tem, the mortgage system, the fashion system, and every other system tend- ing to bankruptcy.” Now, to learn a person to be skill- ful in any business, profession, or art, it would be necessary to have him un- der our immediate instruction, so that we could see how. fast, and with what proficiency he advanced, and point out to him every mistake that was made. We could not expect our children to get an education if we allowed them to stay at home, notwithstanding we had put a good teacher in the school- room. lVe must educate our brother farm- ers to a higher standard of manhood; such a standard as viewed from a good Patron standpoint, and this cannot be done unless they come within the gate. If a brother has the fault of thought- lessly running into debt, and whose bump of hope is very large, talk with him, and reason together about the matter, and by such means reduce that faulty organ. If we take in, and allow none to remain but the perfect ones, how can we promulgate those principles? VVhat will our school do for pupils? It is the sick that need the physician. I doii’t understand why good mem. bers will leave the Grange, if they have the cause at heart, and have a full knowledge of the great objects of the Order, and who once were deter- mined to overcome all obstacles, and at the end receive that welcome plau- dit, “ Well done, good and faithful servant,” even if there are a few objectionable persons in the same Grange. He says, V“ If the plan I have sug- gested should be adopted, the Order will be successful and respectable, and the title ‘Granger’ will no longer bea reproach.” It is something I have yet to learn that the name of Granger is anything else than an honorable one, and no one need be ashamed of the title if he has done the work of a good Patron; but if his component parts are two of water one of milk, and one of Granger, then he might feel as though he was _not fit for the title. The brother wants the word of all members to be worth one hundred cents on the dollar. This is asking too much, for we could not reason- ably expect a brothei-’s word to be worth ten cents more than our com- ing dollar. But is the trouble all on the side of the ninety cent members? Is he not particeps criminis? Has he not loaned to some unfortunate mem- ber, money ata high and ruinous rate, (a principle he advocated in the Sep- tember, 1876, number of the GRANGE Vi-:iToi<,) and the price of produce running low, payment is not forthcom- ing? And that legislation which he proposed for the money-lender should be reversed, a.nd the Granger, whose paper is not par, whatever the cause of the depreciation might he. should have the benefit of the act I rather incline to the opinion that the cash value of the members’ word, be it high or low. is (or should) not be the cause of any Grange dying. and I think no coroner's jury will so re- port. If I was a juror, I would re- turn a verdict in the words of the Saviour of the world, “ He is not dead, but sleepeth,’-’ and, further, that these Granges seem to be under the iii- fluence of some powerful opiate or horrid nightmare, being powerless and unable to see the benefits and light of the day of reformation that is dawn- ing. And I would ask in the lan- guage of one of old, “ Is there no Balm in Gilead for the dreadful malady of my people?’ Yes there is, and it consists in mak- ing the Grange interesting to both old and young; so much so that they will have to attend its meetings. and then explain to them the objects and prin- ciples of the Order. Let each and every one of us strive to do this and “keep ourselves un- spotted from the worlc .” GEO. CAMPBELL, Lecturer, Groveland Grange, 443. guinea’ éepzxrtmcut. FACTS AND A PROBLEM. Some good brethren seem to think that it has never occurred to us, weaker vessels, to try jto better our condition kitchenward. ’l‘o prove to them that we hare thought, though unsuccessfully. I send this, (which will not be new to all, as it was read at Maple Grove :1 year ago.) “ A farmer's life is the life for me I” Said a maden fair, in her fancy free, “ A farmer’s daughter—a farmer’s bride—- I shall walk through life by a farmer’s side, And I’ll patiently tread, be it o'er and o’er, The path which my mother has trod before 3" But, what said the mother—the farmer-‘s wife — To the daughter's choice of a farmer’s life 1' Let me see—it was this: (or in words akin,) It is labor without and care within, And the worst of it is, that they never cease; ‘To the body no rest, to the mi-id no peace; Books I would read were there ever time, The hill of knowledge I fain would climb, But it must not be, for a stern demand Each moment seizes with iron hand ; And the friendly visit I fain would pay To my neighbor, living across the way, I must not make, for I know the cost \Vill be something neglected and something lost. So I starve my mind and I rob my heart Of all that those social joys impart; Or, if I indulge, as I sometimes do, ’Tis with qualms of conscience, not faint nor few; Many go often —soine read what is light, And one in a thousand may chance to write;—- I have known such cases, but cheerless homes, Children neglected by baths and combs, Buttonless husbands, and tables bare, Are the fruits— neither choice, nor rich, nor rare, Of running, and reading, and such delights, And worst of all——w/zcre a woman writes. And I should feel like the veriest thief And like Paul of old, of sinners chief, VVere I to follow this reckless train, Who, seeking pleasure, bring household pain. And my husband and children shall not complain That I failed to help in the strife for gain; Yet each added gain brings an added care, Brings added labor—new weight to bear,—- This morning I heard my husband say. The barn we're to build must begin to-day, The workmen are coming, for, quite too small Is the one I have, and my buildings all.— Then, quick to my faiicyls open eyes Did a vision of future things arisg; A vision of bakiiig—breail, cakes, and pies, Of boiling and broiling, of roasts and fries; Cooking, wholesale, and retail, and otherwise; And of worry, and hurry, and time that flies Too fast, by far, on its hurrying wings, For the multiplied tasks which each new day brings.- This vision is true as I well recall, For again and again I’ve been over it all, And away ahead stretches on before The same hard road troddeii heretofore. So I plod along on my weary way, In this endless treadmill, day after day; And so it must be to the final end, Till I rest in the grave-yard, to which We tend." No, here is a problem for wiser heads Than have turned, as yet, upon Granger beds; How shall the farmer, and farineris wife, Lead a social, generous, hospitable life, Not starving the body, nor heart, nor mind, And not like slaves to their tasks confined I’ And hosts shall arise and your praises tell, If you solve my problem, and solve it well. IVIRS. E. A. SQUIER. Keeping an .\(-coiint. I had thought to take a lisLener’s place in our household department of the VI.\IT0lt, and not talk so much that others could but get a. word in edge-ways; but I do want to say just a few words (nearly) at the commence- ment of the year. How often do we see in cultural papers these words: ers, keep an account of the products of tlie farm, and of the current ex- penses, and at the end of the year balance these accounts and find out whether farming pays or not, and whether you have lived within your the agri- “Farin- income or beyond it.” But I fail to ,1 eniember if any such advice is given to farmer-’s wives? Do they ever tell ) us to keep an account of the products of the dairy or poultry-yard, of how ; in a n v pounds of butter we sell ‘ as well as make, and how many chick- I ens we send to market? Oh no! -Farmer’s wives are not expected to do anything of the sort. It would be la/cz'n_r/ I/Le buszbzess out of their l husbaml s /i(m.r.7s. l Then, again, we hear women say: 4‘ I never studied book-keeping, I l could not keep a yearly account cor- rectly. ‘Veil, suppose you never did take up the study of book—kecping, {you certainly can write down items in some way satisfactory to yourself, if not for the inspection of other peo- ple. You can write down each week and month how many pounds of butter was sold and how much you received per pound, and at the end of the year you can tell how your account stands, unless you have the same difliculty that Horace Greely had. He said he never could read his own ’tl.77‘¢.l€'/?'// after it got cold. We often think we do not realize very much profit from three or four cows, which farmers usually keep, or from a few eggs and chickens over and above what we Want for home consumption, yet if a. strict account is kept, you will be surprised at the amount; of work you have done, and the amount of money received for that work. In most families the but-» ter and eggs are sold to pay for gro- ceries. This is all right, if there is no other way to get them. It takes no more money to get groceries which has been taken in for wheat, potatoes or Wool, than it does when taken for butter, and my humble opinion is that some portion should be given to the wife to buy whatever is needed for herself and children, or other nec- essaries which she knows so well about, that belongs to the household department. The Wife feels better to handle some of the money, the pro- ducts of her own individual labor, which she has worked so hard to earn, than to ask her husband for every cent needed for herself or children; and ten chances to one when she does as/c she fails to receive for the asking, because there is none to be had. The last dollar has been paid out for some farm implement needed on the farm. Had some of the money been put aside which was taken for butter or eggs, the wife would feel easier over the expenditures, and the husband would be saved the annoyance of re- fusing her request. If the wile keeps her own account, she will be more judicious in her expenses—she can form some sort of an estimate how far her money will go, and what proportion she can use in a given time—whether there is any margin for any luxury, such as buy- ing a book, or picture, or the taking of some magazine, or perhaps buying a birth-day present for her husband, without asking for the money to buy it With» and drawing on the family pocket-book. Some men will say, this smacks too much of independence in woman and liketaking the reins in her own hands. Not at all, sir; it is only putting her on an equal footing with yourself, al- lowing her to know how the pecuniary matters of the farm and household staud——whether you both are living within your income, and better fitting her to be a /zelp-mate in managing the financial craft in which you should both feel interested. Then she can practice a little more economy, it" need be, and guage her expenditures according to circumstances. Then, again, itshe is a. good manager she will have a little surplus on hand to lend you when you get in a tight I THE GRANGE VISITO R. l place, and you had much rather bor- lrow of your wife than of a stanger, l because she lends it willingly. Now sisters, mother, and daughters, keep an account of all the butter i made and sold, of the dozens of eggs land spring chickens sent to market} keep an account of all money receiv- - ed and paid out, and what used fol‘, and you will gain something of more 1: value than dollars and cents_—a l‘1Cl1- ) ness of experience. You Wlll be a I better manager, and learn to system- i:/.e your expenses, and you will learn ) to retrench, if necessary, or indulge in some of the luxuries of life, and it will assist you in a business point of view, so that if ever you are brought l to the test of depending on your own resources you will not be under the necessity of learning this lesson. “Ex- perience is a dear school-master.” Fraternally, M Y RA . Be not Afiuiirl to Talk in the Graiige. lVort/iy ;Sec7'elarg J. T. Cob/2 .- Through the columns of’ the Vis1r- OR, I desire to address a few words to the sisters of the Grange in relation to the diffidence among farmers’ wives in speaking in public. It seems to me that we should feel the same free- dom to speak while with our broth- ers and sisters in the Granges, that we do in our families. I confess, in join- ing the Grange I was not much im- pressed with the idea of its being very beneficial. But as time passed, I often found myself looking forward to this evening of rest and social in- tercourse with friends, with a great deal of pleasure, until one evening our brothers wished us to make a few remarks on a subject quite familiar to us all. " Would rather be excused,” went the rounds. Then I was sorry to belong to a society in which I could in no way be of any benefit. I became very much perplexed in regard to the situation, and can now come to no conclusion but that we have wasted our time and strength, and neglected the cultivation of our minds, in the vain endeavor to keep pace with the rapid advance of fash- ion. It is not necessary for me to describe here, the various ways in which we have been led by this ruling power. But let us look back for one moment to the commencement of our first real care, and see if we can not find that many hours, yes, I may say weeks, of precious time have been wasted since the entrance into our family circle of a little bundle of in- nocence and purity, that needed a very simple but sweet attire to make it all that a reasonable mother could wish, But it must not be so, its dress occupies all our attention, regardless of health, eyesight, and the cultiva- tion of intellect. By and by, as time flies onward, the little one comes to us for assistance in some of his stud- ies. and we have no time to spare in this Way, but we send him to his book. And with disappointment in his heart_, he wonders if that old rusty book that bothers him so much, is a better teacher than his own mother. Thus it is the confidence in us, that should be as lasting as time itself, is gradually lessened. We would not, ifwc could, go back to the styles of fifty or a hundred years ago, but let us be cautious, finding time in some way, for self-improvement. And let us teach our sons and daughters that virtue, economy, and intelligence com- bined, is beauty. To these qualifica- tions, add perseverance and a. firm re- liance in God, and they will not, at the end of the race, be found with unimproved talents. It never occurred to me before, in all my life, to write an article for the press, until I was unable, at our last -discussion, to say half what I wanted to. If by so doing, I shall encourage 4*’ any of my young friends to be more diligent and prepare ‘themselves to take an active part in life, a great rle. ) sire of my heart will be accomplished ) F raternally, M R3. L. M. W, I North Lake, March 15th, 1878. I Betsey N umber Two. /'ortl2 Bro. Cobb .- "Auhyough I have not _had more than half thirty years’ experience in house- keeping, I will venture a word of reply tor the benefit of our sister who is “ready and has time for any- thing, even to writing for the Visrr. on.” I always have time to go to the Grange, have never missed for want of time—have been a member ever since the Grange was organized in this part of the country, in 1873. We go 4.1- miles over very bad roads, have to start at half past 12 o'clock sometimes in order to get there, for our Grange is said to meet at 2 r. )1. It would be much easier to tell our sister how much is unnecessary work than how much is necessary, but as tastes differ, it is ditficult to even come at that, but did we dare to men- tion them there are a hundred and ninety-nine things that are unneces- sary. In the first place, it is useless to bake cake every day or two; some kinds of cakes or cookies are just. as good at the age of one month, as one day, and it is just as easy to mix enough for one or two dripping-pans full (if you take your hand instead of a spoon) as a small pan full. If it is economy to buy by the quantity, why not to bake by the quantity. In the second place, we all know that one cup of butter, two cups of sugar, three cups of flour, four eggs and (one cup of thick cream) which ought to be milk, would spoil what would otherwise be a. very nice cake, (by adding a few other things, I mean.) Also, one row of’ fringe, two of scol- lops, three ofpufling, four of pleating, &c., &c , will spoil what might have been a very nice dress. I hear some say, “that is extravagant.” Very true, but I have seen work carried to just such extremes, and at the same time, mothers, poor tired, worn out mother crying,-—\vill some one tell us just how much work is necessary. Uur children will not be more mod- est or less vain, for all of this unneces- sary work, neither could we be heard on this subject, but for our beautiful VISITOR. May it be the means of scattering a. few hints about our do- mestic affairs that will not be wholly lost. . In regard to reading, I consider it a duty as Well as a privilege to read to my “ beloved” while he rests. f0!‘ after he worksrin the cold all day, he is too tired and sleepy to read aloud- Now for fear our Editor will consign this to the waste basket, I will desist. March 7th, 1878. M. R. MAPLE GROVE, March 6, 1878. If Grange No. 218 werea churcll._I should be obliged to pronounce it terri- bly backsliden, as the attendance IS very small in proportion to the nominal membership. But, as in most churches, there area few faithful ones who are ready to do all they can; and most of these brethren are excellent talkers, who speak easily, quietly, and freely upon any subject under discussion. without putting on either parliamen- tary or ueclamatory airs. I congratu- late our Grange upon the absence of the “spread eagle” style common to more youthful speakers, and to some whose ripe age should teach them better things; also, upon having members who not only think, but can make their thinking interesting to others. I did so much want to hear what these brethren would say to us thl5 evening about woman's rights, but the fates are, as usual, against my being present to hear. Not that my own mind has ever taken the direction of female suffrage. I must confess myi ntterinability to comprehend political economy; I can understand moral ques- l tions, even when they happen to creep j into legislative affairs, as slavery did 4 first, and temperance af'terwai'i_ls, but; pure, undiluted politics is quite too 1 much for me. I may have a sort of‘ opinion as to the Southern policy’. but ,- none whatever upon the silver bill. I , parted with my zeal and fury for a par- 1 ty, or its name, when I lost faith in the 3 inf-allibility of my male relatives. I 5 saw that I was not strong~minded, as, in ceasing to depend upon their politi- cal opinions, I was left without any of my own. But because we cannot prop- erly appreciate our own political needs, shall we, therefore, join in the hue and cry raised against those that do? ‘No, rather let us act upon the advice given us in childhood: “\Vhen you have nothing to say, say nothing.” VVe can not properly understand any sub- ject upon which we have bestowed no ‘tliought, and to take a position, pro or con, without thought, and very careful thought too, may be a very common course, but it is not only unwise but unjust to the side against which we are arrayed. And so, standing on neutral ground, I only look on and see the suf- fragists fight their own battles. But last week’s question was one of interest to every working woman :— “ How shall we best set bounds to household tasks, so that time may be secured to us for social enjoyment and the improvement of our minds?’’— Thanks to our \Vorthy Master, Bro. C., and otheis, among them my own hus band and son, for being willing to dis- pense with one out of three formal meals so far as to make it just as little trouble as possible; which means bread and milk or something else equally sim- ple. That takes off a large slice. And “still there’s more to follow.”_ Frateriially, E. A. S. Qfaznmunitafians. For the VISITOR. ADI)IS().\', i\[ich., March 7, ’78. Bo/-(her Co0b.—Until quite recently Chittenden & Co., of Adrian, wholesale dealers in oils, ctc., made no discrimin- ation in regard to their patrons. No matter who came t'or a barrel of “ test oil,” farmer, mechanic, or merchant, he had but to pay a fixed price. A member of Rollin Grange has purchas- ed oil of this company for some time, and disposed of the same to his neigh- bors at a rezisoiiable price. \Vhen oil was retailing at 40 cents per gallon in Hudson, he was selling the same “test” at 35 cents. His oil business of course became quite extensive in his neighbor- hood, so much so that Hudson merch- cliants began to report that “the Grangers were killing all kinds of busi- ness,” and “not being satisfied at kill- ing the machine business, they must now attempt the ruin of the grocer’s i'1'3d9;” and “thatcurscd Rollin Grange was at the bottom ofit all.” It is not positively know how the rnzitter was brouglit about, but when Our ‘Rollin oil man” went to Adrian to replenish his stock, he was politely ]lll‘()I‘lIl€‘(l‘l)y the gentlemanly proprie- tors that ‘atthat time, and in future, they could‘ not supply their Granger customers." ’l‘his of course. is another stab at the Grange. \Vhet.lier it will siriiigtheii the coinbination of “test- "_'i “1t‘U._or have a tendency to more 'hli!n_ly~Ulllte the Grangers ot' this and *]'?:.l0lll1r1g_ counties, remains to be seen. _ut Rollin Grange proposes to inaugu- Edte aimove that will result either in hilllgéllijg. phittenden & Co. to_ terms,’ or that? anisbhing an oil house in Adrian mnswil e under the control of Pat- Om opty: If the latter happens as the St yla einative, we hope there will be I0 a flood of orders, and such a flood of genuine encouragement in every way D0SSlble, as will prove that farmers can d°.the"' °W_n business. and that “in union there is strength.” Fmiflnauyy ’l‘Hos. I\IAJ.0l\'Y, ' Sec‘ y Grange 383. I‘here need not be much machinery employed to educate the Hudson mer. yilgézlnts and Cliittenden & Co.-, in this _ e matter of how and where to buy 011. It is quite possible that Rollin friends have not done fa“ thing- We have had a I;e;:Ahg9I1t under pay, for some time, 0“ mi; Splduhave hadithe ordering of e Rollins Oil Man.” If his even 0111‘ quite the State Busi- Pllrchases had been made through this ‘ GRANGE VISITOR. regular cliaiinel, you would have had no trouble with C. & Co., or those other dealers who have captured them.—ED. What is Legitimate for Granges to Discuss. At a inc-etin;_: of the Detroit and Bay l City Council. 1’. of H., held last Dc-’ - eeniber at Orion, a resolution w:‘.s pass- ed by the (joiiiicil censuring the act of the board of supervisors of Oakland County at its recent session, by which the county ageiit was autliorized to ex- pend $250.00 in fitting up and renting a. room for the use of Judge Baldwin, the Circuit Judge of this circuit. These resolutions were published in several of our local papers, and commented on somewhat severely by the Pontiac Bill Poster, and the action of the Council, by the Bill I’os(er, was styled as small potatoes. The same resolutions or_re:-solutions of like import, were introduced at. the re- cent meeting of the Oakland Pomona Grange. at (jlarksion, and, after a thorough discussion of the principle in- volved in the action of the Board in do- nating the people's money for the hen- efit ofthe judge, the resolutions were almost unanimously adopted. Now in some of the comments on these resolutions, it was said that the Grange had no business with such questions as this, that it was political in its nature, and hence should not lie meddled with; but the. discussion of the question showed that the Grangers, as tax-payers, were interested in the law- ful and proper use of the money paid as taxes, and that it was not a question in which one political party alone was interested, fiir both parties divided on the vote when it was before the Board, and hence the Pomona Grange decided, and very properly (as I believe) that it was a case that should be considered by the Patrons, and that legitimately came within the scope of their duties. Fraternally, C. Farm G:irdcns—Do They P.‘i_v.' The following essay was read by Joel B Norris, of Cambria before the Farmers’ lnstitute held in Hillsdale County last month : Jllr. Prcsizlent and B/-ol/icr 17'armcr.s'.' —’l‘o appear before an audience like this, is a new departure for me. But as the committee for this institute has not invited any one to apologize I shall not, but hasten to the subject assigned me, “ Farm Gardens — do they pay?” which means, I suppose, the greatest quantity of vegetables and fruit produced with the least amount of labor. In farm gardening the first and most essential thing to be consid- ered is the soil and location, but the soil is not everything that warrants success. The size of the garden de- pends on the family. Do not be afraid ofgetting it too large. The soil should be sand, loam, or muck. For gen- eral purposes for gardening, the soil that I have had the best success with, is a reclaimed willow swamp, of about one acre, where good seeds nev- er fail to grow if properly put in. If you have a low piece of land, convenient to the house, by all means use it for your garden. If it is not dry enough, nothing will pay you better than to tile it. But should not your land be rich enough naturally, you must make it so by fertilizing. Do not undertake to make your gar- den on poor soil, without manuring. put on the manure thickest where certain crops are to grow that require the most manure. You need not be afraid of making it too rich. Do not undertrtke to make your garden on stiff clay soil, my experience in that direction is that it does not pay. Prepare your seed bed as for wheat or oats. Be sure and have it mellow. Do not plow (I say plow, for I do not think it will pay to spade much) until you are ready to plant it, then the seeds will have an even chance with the weeds. And by all means do not plow it when wet. The next thing to be considered is the seeds and plants. The selection of seeds is a very important matter, and in the wisdom of the choice, suc- cess may, in a great measure depend. You not only want the best seeds, butyou want the best varieties, One cannot afford to spend his time with poor kinds. Do not understand me as advising you to buy every new variety of‘ seed that is advertised as the best, it will be time enough to in- vest when it proves itself worthy of cultivation. It is a great damage to sow poor seed. If you do not raise your own, make out your list from the cata- logue of some reliable seed house, then send for it early. Do not wait until the day you want to sow it, then send a boy to the nearest grocery for it, for in in my opinion, you will be disappointed. I waste no time in making raised beds, which is time thrown away. But when I get my land fitted, _l take the horse and plow and make light straight ridges, from two to three feet apart, or sow by a strong line drawn tightly across the garden, the longest way for, conven- icnce of working with the horse and cultivator. Do not sow your seed until the ground gets warin Do not plant all at once, but leave space for plant- ing more fora. succession. Be careful and not cover the small seeds so deep they cannot grow, then blame the seedsman for selling you poor seeds. The larger seeds may be covered deep- or with good results, Nothing is so discouraging to the gardener as to have his seeds fail to grow. I sow in drills so that I can tend the garden with the horse and cultivator; never think of hoeiiig it, unless when the plants are very small. I do not make the garden until the earth gets warm, then most of the seeds will grow soon as the weeds. The best way to keep the weeds down is to stir the ground often while they are small. (The old maxim is very applicable here, “A stitch in time saves ninef’) Ifyou let the weeds run up to seed one year, just think what you will have to contend with the next. My observation is, where horse power is not used in the garden, where one is not kept free from weeds, in the next three years the weeds are the princi- ple crop. On rich land do not sow too early the vegetables you want for winter use, such as turnips, cabbages, cucumbers, etc. The only trouble that I have experienced in growing cab- bages until last year was, I put them out too early in the season, they got their growth and burst open before the cool weather came to check it. Then by planting the cucumber in succes- sion, say in May, June, and July, you will be very likely to escape the drouth, which is so very destructive to the vines. In laying out the garden, set the currants and raspberries, grapes, pie- plant and asparagus on one side, in rows by themselves, so you can run through them with the cultivator at your convenience, for these are a great luxury that no farmer can afford to do without. And, as a friend said in an essay here last winter, should come to be esteemed as necessities. If there is one thing in a farmer’s garden that pays better than another it is a well-tilled strawberry bed, from the fact that they ripen when there is no other fruit. I have a short statement from one of my neighbors in regard to gardening for profit, which I will state. He says, “A few years ago I gave my son, a lad of 15 years, a small piece of land for gardening, seven rods and one-half long, and three rods wide, making twenty-two and oiie-half square rods, or a trifle over one-eight of an acre. I-Ie planted it to cabbages, cucumbers and tomatoes, and sold the crop in Hillsdale for $31.00.” In the 7 same ratio an acre would produce about $220. Vile think this answers the question “ Does it pay?” in the affirniative. I have omitted saying anything about the different varieties of vege- tables from the fact that what would suit one would not suit another, but left each one choose for himself. And now brother farmers let me say, that gardening, on paper is one thing and gardening in the garden is quite another. But in following the above instructions, I will take the responsi- bility of saying (subject to criticism,) that no part of the farm pays as good returns, in proportion LO the outlay, as a well cultivated garden. I have been requested by the com- mittee, to dwell somewhat on the growing of roots for domestic animals. As it is closely connected with farm gardening, we thought it would not be out of place to give this important subject a. short notice. The principal objection to this branch of farming, is the amount of’ hand labor supposed to be required in the cultivation of roots. The time has been, probably, when labor was so high and scarce that iarmcrs would not be justified in en- gaging iii this branch of business to any great extent, but as labor is much cheaper now than in years past, we think that farmers should pay more at- tention to this much neglected branch of husbandry. In growing turnips and mangold wurtsels, with a power drill, one can do nearly all the work with a horse. But in raising carrots, it re- quires more hand work on account of their diminutive size and slow growth. When I say that roots are the most important crop, I grow for feed, I mean that it is the best for the amount of labor expended. It has been well demonstrated, that a greater amount of sustenance for domestic animals can be obtained from the same amount of land, by the cultivation of roots, than by any other crops. It is probable also that in some cases a given amount of manual labor will produce more of this sustenance than could be produced in any other way. I have been kindly furnished with statements of root crops grown by some of my neighbors. Mr. Carleton says, “ My beet crop for the year 1877, was planted June 4th., in rows three feet apart, and distant from each other in the rows eight to ten inches. Va- riety named in Gregory’s Catologues American improved sugar. Amount or ground planted, twenty-one and three-fifths. square rods; amount of beets a wagon box rounded full six times, 150 bushels, or about 1,100 bushels per acre. There was coarse manure plowed under early in the spring, and salt was sprinkled on a part of the plants. Could see no special benefit from its use. Thought the tops looked more fresh and plump than . where the salt was not used. And an. other neighbor, Mr. Barrington, who grows roots for feeding to a considera- ble extent, says he considers seven hundred bushels of‘ turnips and six hundred bushels of beets, a fair crop. But in favorable seasons will do much better. Much more might be said on this important subject. But I have been admonished that these essays must be short, and I forbear. Meeting of the Detroit and Bay City Council, P. of H. ’l‘hc Detroit and Bay City District Council, P. of H. held its quarterly meeting at Orion on the 5th of March, inst. The Council was well attended; ten Granges were represented, and very interesting and profitable discussions were had on many important questions in which the farmers and their families are deeply interested. The GRANGE VISITOR was recommended by several .--_ ;"..'..._..... ....\. 4 3 z :::-v.-:.- ~ 8 of the speakers as a paper that should be in the hands of every Granger. The following are the offlcers of the Council for the present year: Master—W A Wales, Disco. Overseer——M Delano, Oxford. Lecturer—Mrs Allen Pearsoll, Disco. Steward——AIlen Pearsoll, Disco. Asst. Steward—Ira Reed, Metamora. Chap.——Mrs J S Cauldins, Thornville. Treasurer—C K Carpenter, Orion. Secretary—Hlram Andrews, “ Ceres—Mrs C K Carpenter, “ Pomona——Mrs M Delano, Oxford. Flora—Mrs Hiram Andrews, Orion. L. A. S.——Mrs Ira Reed, Metamora. Executive Com.——C K Carpenter, J M Norton, Henry Groffe, B F McDon- ald, G W Crampton. Finance Com.—L_vrande VVoodw:1rd, O F Delano, Joshua VanHousen. lllensures of Distance. A “Sabbath-day’s journey" is 1,155 yards. (This is eighteen yards less than two-thirds of a mile.) A “day's journey” is 33%. mi es A cubit is two feet. A great cubit is eleven t‘.-ct. A palm is three inches. A span is ten and one-half inches. A space is three feet. TIIE REAPER, IDEATII. Died on the 23d of February, at his home in Portage, Kalamazoo Co., Bro. John H. Moss, an estimable member of Portage Grange N 0. 1G, and by this notice we desire, as a Grange, to give evidence of our loss and express sympathy for the stricken family of the deceased. H. S. Boorrr, Mas. C. B. BACON, COD‘. GEORGE T. HALL. Anne E. Watkins. an estimable member of Allen Grange No. 78. Resolutions of condo- lence were ordered spread upon the records of the Grange. FARM for SALE, VERY CPI EA]? 2 Situated about 6; miles south of Ypsilanti, in the township of Augusta, Washtenaw Co., containing 200 Acres ot' Land. A very pleasant and desirable location; well adapted to grain raising and dairying—a lirst—class Cheese Factory just across the street from it. There is about 40 acres of good Timber upon it; a fine Orchard of Choice Fruit, and pretty good buildings. It is located within one-half mile of a first rate District School, a Saw Mill, Post Office, Blacksmith shop and two Stores. This farm, having come into my hands by Assignment, 1 will sell either the whole or a part of the same, at very low figures. J. WEBSTER CHILDS, Assignee. aprl-2t T0 .Masters and Secretaries of Subordinate G7-a,ng'es: I have secured the privilege of appointing Agents for THE AMERICAN HAY TEDDER in this State. Every Secretary of a Grange whose members will be likely to need one or more of these implements, should write me at once. Ican send no machines into territory where the local agents are not members of the Order, nor shall I appoint any agent in the locality of any Grange ordering two or more machines. Order two to five TEDDERS, and if you do not need them yourselves, sell them to some one who does, and put the profits into your Grange Treasury. I sold the TEDDER to Mr. Gardner last year. TERMS CASH, September 1st, promptly. ADDRESS AT ONCE, A. N. RUSSELL, Burr Oak, Mich. €"N. B.—This Notice will appear in only two numbers of the Vrsrroa - Fair Warning I The object of the Manufacturer is to sell his Wares, and if you are not disposed to help yourselves, we shall have to try the old way. READ WHAT FARMERS SAY OF IT Will do the work of ten men and do it better J AMES JOHNSON, Sturgis, Mich. I think it is as profitable an implement for the farmer as the mowing machine. W. W. SMITH, Noble, Mich. If it were impossible to get another, I would not take $200.00 for my TEDDEE. EmNuEL HXMEBAUGK, Burr Oak, Mich. By using the TEDDER last season, I cut, cured and put hay in the barn in fine condition, the same day. Wet weather does not bother a man much if he has an American Tedder. CAIN HIMEBAUGH, Bronson, Mich. 1 have used an American Tedder 11 years, and it is nearl as good as when bought. J. GARDNER, Centreville, Mich. TI-IE GRANGE VISITOR. HENRY COLLINS, NURSERYMAN, White Pigeon, St. Joseph Co., Mich. Evergreens, Hedge Plants, —AND——- SMALL FRUITS A SPECIALTY. Norway Spruce, European Larch, Scotch and Austrian Pine, American Arborvitac, Osage Orange, Honey Locust. Raspberries, Strawberries, Gooseberries, Currants. SEND FOR PRICE LIST. febl-t3 VV an. H. HARRIS, (Successor to N. D. WETMoRE,) General C0-operative .Grange Agent. WESTERN BUSINESS A SPECIALTY. No. 48 Corondolet Street, New Orleans. Orders for Sugar, Molasses, Cofiee, Rice, and all Southern products filled at Wholesale cash rices. Consignments of Flour, Meal, Bacon, ard, Corn, Oats, Hay, Wheat, Bran, Apples, Potatoes, Cabbage, Butter, Eggs, Poultry and Stock solicited. $’Send tor Circular. 7 THE UNIVERSAL SEWING MACHINES Make the CHAIN and LOCK STITCIIES, And embrace all the good qualities of the old machines. No Ma.c/line is cheaper .’ No Ma- clzine is better .’ Guaranteed for five years .’ Money refunded if not satisfied. Secretaries, send for specimens of the work, and circulars for your whole Grange. O. R. INGERSGLL, of Patrons’ Paint Co., Front and Dover Streets, New York. CONSULT YOUR INTEREST! JOHN -o. MILLER,§ Commission Merchant, 53 MARKET STREET, CHICAGO, - - - ILLINOIS. Is there in the interest of Patrons and others. Will not only sell, but will fill all Orders promptly at Wholesale Price. REFERENCES: C. L. Whitney, Muskegon, Freeman Franklin, Buchanan, Thomas Ma.rs, Berrien Center, B. F. Pennell, Berrien Springs, R. M. Goodwin, Union Pier, Henry Chamberlain, \Villiam Chamberlain, Three Oaks. George Bridgman, of Bridgman, Thomas Mason and Wm. J. Nott, St. Joseph. son. sans: 50 Swarms Italian Bees, In Move-able Comb Hives. FOR PARTICUARS ADDRESS SOUTHARD 80 RANNEY, KALAMAZ00, MICH. WRITE FOR OJRCULARS T0 The PHELPS & BIGELOW Wind Mill Co., ' Manufacturers of the an on an WIND MILL. And Dealers in PUMPS, PIPES,TANKS, lice. :\’os. ll, 4'6 8; l8 N. Blmlicli St, KALAMAZOO,MIC H. PATRONS’ PAINT COMPANY, 259 Front Street, New York. Ingersoll’s Ready Mixad Paints. 50 per cent Saved. 64 page book of colors, how to paint, select har- monious eolors, &c., mailed free on application. THE AME RICAN- IMPROVED -—‘«_. TOOTHED WEEDING HOE. PROPRIETORS. WALKER Sc CULVER, - _ :2 Ill 5 o . 5" rl cl ii 3 <1 t» l; E H *‘ C) W I El i '1 F’ The Best VVEEDING MACHINE in Use. TERMS T0 PATRONS, Address Nreo PARTIGULAH. MERY WA The Original Wholesale For further information and C. L. WHITNEY, Muskegon. I Co., Grange Supply Iriouse, 227 :12 229 vvABA.s:: AVENUE, Rea}. the following partial list of the Goods we sell at Wholesale Prices. Accurdeons, Alpacas, Aprons, Cari iage and Buggy Barege, Veiling, Bills, Bug Strings, Bed Snr ngs, Bed Quilts, Belting, Machine, Belts, Ladies, Beavers, Bill Books, Bishop Lawn, Blank Books, Blankets, Bed and Horse, Bleached Cotton, Blacking, lllueing, Boots and Shoes, Brushes, Slnwing, Bruslies, Too h, Brushes, Blzn king, Brushes, Nail, Brushes, Hair, Brushes, Cloth, Brushes, llorse, Brussels Net, Braids, Bracelets, Bracelets, Illustrated List. Brown Cotton, Broadcloth, Bustles, Buttons, Buckles, Pants, Carpet Warp and Yarn, Carpets, Carpet Binding, Carpenters’ Rules, Cards, Playing, Cambric, Cable Cord, Canvass, Cassimere, Cement, Rubber, Chromos, Chains, Watch and Neck, Chains, lllustratetl List. Chambmy, Checked Shirting, Cheviot Shirting, Chess and Chess Boards, Cloths and Cassimeres, Clothing, Clothes Wringcrs. Cluny Luce, Clocks, Clocks, Illvustrat 41 List Cotton Batting, Cotton Flannel, Cottonades, Concertiuas, Corset Jeans, Corsets and Clasps, Corset Laces, Coat Bindings, Combs, Assorted Styles, Corduroy, Crash. Cribbage Boards and Boxes, Croquet Sets, Crotchet Edging, l Curtains, Lace, Curry Combs, Cutlery, Denims; Diaper, Diaper Pins, Doeskins, Dominoes, Dress Goods, Dress Binding, Drilling, Cotton, Drilling, Linnen, Ducking, Edgings and ‘nsertings, Elnstic Cord and Web, Embroitlery Silk, Embroidery Cotton, Fans, Farmers‘ Satin, Fe-alliers, Flannel, Cotton, Flannel, Union Checks, Flannel, Shaker, Flannel, Wool, Plain, Flannel, Wool Twillcd, Flannel, Wool Plain. Flannel, Opera, Flowers and Plumes, Flasks, Frilling, Fringes, Fringes, Silk and Worsted, ‘urs, Fustinn, Gents’ Ties, Bows ll: Stzlllb. Ginghmns, Gimps, Gloves, Ladies’ zk Cllildrt-n’.-, Gloves, Men's and Boy :5, Grass Cloth, Grenadines, Grain Bags, Guipure Lace, Guns, Gun Caps, llarlnonicns, Hats and Caps, Huir Pins, Hand Glasses, Handkercliiefs, Ladies’, Handkerchiefs, Gents’, Hosiery, Ladies‘ Hosiery, Misses’ & Children's Hosiery, Men's and Boys’, Ilooks and Eyes, Irish Linen, Jaconet, Jewelry, Jewelry, Illustrated List, Kettles, Brass zfi Porcelain, Kentucky Jeans, Knit Jackets, Ladies‘, Knit Jackets, Gents’. Knitting Cotton. Knives and Forks, Linen Drill, Linen, Dress, Linen, Table. Linen. Birds‘-eye, Linen Thread, Linen Braid, Lincn Floss, Linen Collars and C~ufl”s, Lint y, Locks. Lockets, Lockets, Illa.»-[rated Lixt. Marseilles and Piques, Mattresses, Memorandum Books, Miscellaneous Articles, Mittens, Mons’ and Boys‘, Mohair, Dress, Molmir. Binding, Monkey Wrencln s, Mosquito Netting, Nankeens, Nuinsook, Napkins. Napkin Rings, Rubber, Napkin R‘s, 1ll'Izstrat‘edL1'xt Neckties, Gems’, Neckties, Ladies’, Needles and Tlirearl, .\'urs<-ry liubbt-r Sheeting, N uhies, Oil Cloths, Floor, Overalls and J unlpoi-s, Padlocks, Para.-lols, Paper Collars and Curls, Pens and l»'enhold(~rs, Perfumery, Percales, Pillow Case Cotton, Pillow Case Edging, Pins, Pins and Ear Rings, Pins, Emblem, Pins, Emblem, Illll8tI'aI«’:d List. Pocket Books, Prints, Quilts, White. Quilts, Colon d, Razors and Razor Strops, Repellents, Revolvers, Bings, Rings, Illustrated List. Ribbon Rope, Rubber Diaper, Rubber Balls, Rubber Sheeting and Bibs Rubber Belting, Machine. ‘W393. Shoe. Rubber Boots and Shoes Lace Trimming, Rubber Clothing, ' 141? R0595: Ruches and Ruching, Lanterns, }{n1e,,, Lamp and Candle Wick, Rutfling, Ladies’ Silk Neck llaudker— Sash Ribbon _0hl9fE. Satinets, ’ Ladies’ Cloth, satchel,’ Lawn. DN355. Saddles, Leggings Wool. saddles Izzusn-at d Ln e. Leggings:Rubber, scales. ’ e M Led Pencils, Scarfs, Silk Linen Shirt Boosoms, Scarfs, W081, ‘ Sewing Silk, Sewing Machine Needles and Attachments, Sewing Machines, Sewing ‘Machines Illustra- ted List Seines, Sheeting. Unblelu-hed, Sheeting While, . Sheeting, Bleached, Shirtiug, Unbleached, Shirting. Bleached, Shirts, While, Shirts, ClI0('kl‘(l and Striped, Shirts, Over, Shirt Bosoms, Shirt Studs, blu-ars and Scissors, Shawls, Slinwl Straps, Shawl Pins, Shawl Pius, Illustrahd L1’/it Silesias, .., SI Silver Plated Ware, Silver Plated Ware, Illus- trated List. Spoons and Forks, Silver Plated, Skirt Skirt and Coat Braid, Sleeve Buttons, Soap, Toilet and Silver, Spool Cotton and Linen, Star Braid, Stationery, Suspenders, Swiss Mull, Syringes, Tape, Linen and Cotton, Tape Measures, Table Spreads, Teas, Terry for Cloaking, Thread La: e, Thermometers, Ticking, Tick Binding, Tobacco, Towels and Toweling, Trunks, Tmveling Bags, Umbrellas, Underwear, Ladies’ Underwear, Gents’ Vnlises, Valenciennes Lace, Velveteens, Veils and Yelling, Violins, Victoria Lawn, Watches, Waterproof, Wash Blond, Wedding, Welting Cord, Whalebone, Window Curtain, Wigans, Wicks, Wickings, Wool Twine, Wool Scarfs Work Boxes, Yak Lace. CA’l‘AL()GUES AND PRICE LISTS on ALL OUR GOODS FREE TO ANY ADDRESS ON APPLICATION. sum) ALSO: non SPECIAL ILLUSTRATED LIST or srnvnn AND snwme MACHINES, SADDLES, SILVER-PLATED WARE, CLOCKS. &C. MONTGOMERY WARD & 00., Opposile the Matteson I-louse, Chica8°-