Fowle's New Hampshire Gazette And General Advertiser

On the Happiness of FARMERS.

When we take a cursory view of mankind, we find every man in pursuit of happiness. Some pursue one method and some another, and many through mistaken notions of happiness, involve themselves in misery and distress. In the populous city all is hurry and confusion, the rattling of carts, waggons and bells, added to the cries of poor inhabitants, constantly disturb the peace of the citizen. The merchant is subject to a variety of difficulties ; at one time his whole estate is at risk floating on the raging seas : at another time he is disturbed by thieves, and enjoys but little quietness. But the state of the farmer is widely different; of all men living he perhaps may be said to be the happiest.

Farmers in general are men not of the greatest learning, nor is it best they should be. as that would not have a tendency to increase their happiness, but the contrary. Knowledge enlarges the mind, gives more extensive views, opens a large field for contemplation.--It prepares the mind to receive either the greater happiness or greater misery, and very frequently it is the latter. The generous farmer troubles not himself about nice points of learning, which as Solomon says is only a weariness to the flesh : but he views with unspeakable delight, the face of the earth at the close of the winter, he walks forth among the lowing herds and playful lambs, and regulates his enclosures, charmed with a sweet melody of warbling birds. The blooming fruit trees send forth a delicious smell, and gentle nature invites us to rove round the fields.. On a summer's morning the farmer rises well refreshed with sleep, walks through the fields and views with pleasure the springing corn, or the full grown grass bending to the crooked scythe. At noon he calls together his servants and labourers and they all recline themselves on the green turf. beneath the shade of some mighty Oak ;-there they refresh themselves with the cool breeze that fans the air and shakes the leaves over their heads. Then again being charmed with the warbling of birds, and the gentle murmurs of some running brook near at hand, they indulge themselves with a short nap of soft slumber.

O delicious fare. never tasted by the merchant nor the scholar, Soon they all rise and pursue their daily labour. When the sun is near setting. the farmer says to his labourers, 'tis enough, dismiss the weary oxen from the yoke, whose necks drop under the burden of the day, and let us return to our domestic retirement. What satisfaction must be received in returning to his family. who receive him with joy, and welcome him with their kind behaviour : then sleep is agreeable. and refreshes both soul and body. This is the manner in which he spends his time in summer,-'till at length comes autumn with a golden crown : Then he beholds the fruits of his labours. the productions of nature, earth's richest treasure, and a choice gift of heaven. The fruit trees bend beneath their yellow load, and the fields exhibit a golden hue ;-he stores well the cribs with corn, and his cellars with choice juice to cheer himself and friends. Soon comes grave winter with his hoary locks, sternly chastising sleepy Sluggards. During this long interval, when the earth groans beneath her icy chains, the Farmer is made happy in a comfortable cottage, accompanied with his cheering consort, and a circle of dutiful children :-He lays wood bountifully on the fire, his cups are often replenished with good cyder, and his table covered with the choicest dainties ; all which conspire to make him agreeable and happy.