The Patron Of Husbandry

THE PROSPEROUS GRANGE

Some think that the financial feature should be made the leading feature of a Subordinate Grange; others believe that social intercourse is the foundation on which to build their hopes; others plant themselves on the high sounding proposition that "knowledge is power." Each may have his hobby, and each in a measure be right. Not one but all of these elements should enter into the everyday practice of a Grange according to its needs and make-up. How to set every one to work, according to his capacity, should be the constant aim of every Grange.

The reading Grange is invariably the progressive, prosperous Grange. One may possibly be a very good member and not be a reader, but consider what he would be if to his untrained zeal there were joined a love of general knowledge to increase his efficiency and enthusiasm. This is a fact that should not be overlooked by the Subordinate Grange. The Grange paper exerts a most salutary influence, but many persons, after joining the Grange, are still wedded to their political papers, do not feel able to subscribe, or are unwilling to put out any more money until they know more about the Order they have just entered.

A little pains taken to cultivate new members would save many who are lost to the Order, because they do not learn enough about the Grange to become interested in it. A Grange can well afford to put in each new member's hand a copy of the Dirigo Rural, paid for one year, as a business investment for the good of the Order. This will not only instruct, interest and help the initiate, but will abundantly reward the Grange for such outlay. West Bath Grange has already voted to do this, and we have no doubt that every Grange in the State that thus provides for their new members will be fully satisfied with the arrangement. We trust the earnest Patrons everywhere will not neglect a matter of so much importance.—Dirigo Rural.