The Daily Argus

Rain Needed.

The small streams, springs and wells in this county are quite low and grass is beginning to suffer for want of moisture. Unless we have rain soon the feed will fail and stock will suffer. Early potatoes have nearly ceased to grow for want of rain. They are numerous in the hill, but are small, and will grow but little if any more unless we have rain immediately. Late potatoes are looking well. In some places there are bugs, but the prospect generally in this county is fair for a pretty good crop. Corn and small grain are in fine condition and promise well. In some orchards there will be a good crop of apples, but the average will be poor. Small fruits are pretty fair, and garden truck excellent. But rain is wanted immediately, and a good deal of it.

The farmer is never sure of a crop until he has it harvested. His grain may be spoiled in a few days by a change of weather. A drought may destroy his feed and his vegetables. In fact his life is a constant warfare with the elements and the insects that prey upon his growing crops. It is true that seed-time and harvest never fail—but the amount of the harvest is greatly affected by circumstances over which the farmer has no control. He can do a great deal to counteract the workings of his enemies, but cannot wholly do it. Many people say the farmer is a natural growler. This is a mistake. He is naturally thankful for every blessing. But he never can tell what success he is to have until he has harvested and marketed his crops.