22 PROPOSALS FOR

not necessarily confined to any precise number of acres. I have in another place,* mentioned five hundred acres; and a possession of that extent, will be fully sufficient, at the outset.

The characteristics, with respect to soil, subsoil, surface, elevation,&c. ought to be varied. But it would be in vain to dwell on these particulars: as it is not probable, that a parcel of land, minutely answering to any arbitrary, nicely drawn plan, can be obtained. The situation must first be chosen, and the best that it affords be procured. Or, if the best situation furnish not a suit of lands, appropriate to the intention, it must be changed for another. It is the institu- tion, viewed in the aggregate, which 1s the main object: not any particular plot of ground, in a precise situation. Per- severance in search will, doubtless, dis- cover one, that will sufficiently answer

the purpose.

*See MiIpLaNnp CounTIEs, Sect. FARMERS.