many of them will bear repetition with new materials, or in new situations. Each one includes a brief introductory statement to be read, and an outline of work to be performed. In all of them, it is the doing of the work outlined—not the mere reading of the text—that will yield satisfactory educational results.
The work of this course is not new. Much work of this sort has been done, and well done, as nature-study, in various institutions at home and abroad. But here is an attempt to integrate it all, and to show its relation to the sources of our living. So it is the natural history, not of the whole range of things curious and interesting in the world, but of those things that humankind has elected to deal with as a means of livelihood and of personal satisfaction in all ages.
These are the things we have to live with: they are the things we have to live by. They feed us and shelter us and clothe us and warm us. They equip us with implements for manifold tasks. They endow us with a thousand delicacies and wholesome comforts. They unfold before us the ceaseless drama of the ever-changing seasons—the informing drama of life, of which we are a part. And when, in our rude farming operations, we scar the face of nature to make fields and houses and stock pens, they offer us the means whereby, though changed, to make it green and golden again—a fit environment wherein to dwell at peace.
In the belief that an acquaintance with these things would contribute to greater contentment in and enjoyment of the farm surroundings and to a better rural life, this course was prepared. The original suggestion of it came from Director L. H. Bailey of the New York State College of Agriculture. It was first given in that college by me in cooperation with Mrs. J. H. Comstock. To both these good naturalists, and to all those who have helped me as assistants, I am greatly indebted for valuable suggestions.
James G. Needham.
