[To THE EDITOR OF THE 'SPECTATOR.'] SIR, — How can we who
are deeply concerned for the welfare of agriculture and the stability of our nation find adequate words to express our gratitude to Mr. Herring for his far- sighted generosity, and to General Booth and the organisation of the Salvation Army for their intended patriotic attempt to expend this noble gift in the creation of small holdings,— small holdings that will pay their way, and at the same time help competent families to force a living out of the soil, and to make a permanent home of their own in the country ? As an agricultural landlord who has had success in establishing some of the cottagers of his estate in small holdings, allow me to offer some suggestions. Let me urge the Salvation Army officials at first only to settle families in these holdings who have had some experience of country life and work. To succeed, the competent, thrifty wife is as important as the competent, thrifty man. It is important that the soil be well drained and of good quality, and that the colony be within easy reach of an average market and possess a good water- supply. In selecting their land and working -their scheme I beg the Salvation Army officials to be guided largely by those experts who possess some acquaintance with the working of small holdings, and with the practical know- ledge of up-to-date cultivation, and who have a business experience of the requirements of modern markets. Some kind of skilled supervision as to the most paying crops to grow, and how most economically to grow them, and the most profitable animals to keep, together with co-operative cultivation, gathering, packing, and placing on the markets, is, I am inclined to think, necessary to make the scheme a success. Much will depend on the technical skill, business ability, and tact in dealing with men of the superintendent of the colony. At the present time we are the only market into which the surplus products of the world can be sent without let Or hindrance, and, in consequence, the profit on the products that the average small holder can market is brought very low. I am sure that all practical agriculturists will agree with me that it is only the best quality of stuff, raised in the cheapest and most scientific method, and marketed in the most easily handled and attractive style, which can be made to pay. To attempt any work on the land on any:other principle, whether by a large or a small holder, is to court failure. It would be disastrous indeed for the future establishment of small holdings in this country if this attempt on the part of the Salvation Army were to end in failure.—I am, Sir, H. B. M. BDCHANAN.
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