In the London Exhibition very little wheat was exhibited equal to that from the United States, especially that from Genessee county, in the State of New York—­a soft white variety, to the exhibitor of which a prize medal was awarded by the Royal Commissioners.  The red Mediterranean wheat exhibited from the United States attracted much attention.  The wheat from South Australia was probably superior to any exhibited, while much from the United States fell but little behind, and was unquestionably next in quality.

From the Second Report on the Breadstuffs of the United States, made to the Commissioner of Patents, by Lewis C. Beck, M.D., I am induced to make some extracts.  He states:—­

The analyses of several samples, the growth of various foreign countries, have afforded me an opportunity of comparing the American and foreign wheats and flours.  With a few exceptions of peculiar varieties, it will be seen from the results that with ordinary care the wheat of this country will compare advantageously with that of any other.  Indeed, on reviewing my analyses, I question whether there is any part of the world where this grain is generally of a finer quality than it is in the United States.  But all the advantages which we possess in this respect will be of little avail so long as inferior and damaged breadstuffs are shipped from our ports.

In addition to the analyses which I have executed of the various samples of wheat and wheat flour according to the mode heretofore pursued, I have performed a series of experiments for the purpose of settling the important question in regard to the relative value of the fine flour of wheat, and the “whole meal.”  I have also consulted every work within my reach which could throw any light upon the different points that have presented themselves during the progress of the investigation.

    The large number of samples of wheat and wheat flour which have been
    placed in my hands for examination, have left me no time for the
    analysis of our other breadstuffs.

It cannot be denied that the amount shipped to foreign ports during 1849 is considerably less than for the two preceding years.  In the meantime, however, a new and important market has been opened in our territories on the Pacific.  It may also be safely affirmed that the causes for foreign demand, and which must hereafter operate, still remain.  These are the cheapness of land in this country, and the peculiar adaptation of our soil and climate to the growth of the two important cereals, wheat and maize.

Another fact, it seems to me, is of sufficient interest in connection with this subject, to be here noticed.  The failure of the potato crop in various parts of the world for several years past has engaged the attention of scientific and practical men.  Unfortunately, the nature of the blight which has seized upon this tuber