1837, but are
equally good evidence from that period to the present, 1854. As they are
short, and to the point, we use them all. The very appropriate and just
remarks of Col. Hughes as regards the rights, and what is due to
inventive talent, we most cordially respond to; as must every right
minded and disinterested reader. He refers to Col. Edw. Lloyd of "Wye
House" as the largest wheat grower in Maryland; we much doubt if he is
not the largest in the Union. Several years since, he informed us that
his average crop of wheat was from 33 to 35 thousand bushels; and a year
or two ago we learned that the crop exceeded forty thousand bushels. He
now, and for many years past has used Hussey's Reaper exclusively. More
satisfactory and conclusive evidence cannot be given, or desired, than
is afforded in these three letters, of the early use, and long proved
efficiency of the invention.
"Hornewood, E. Shore, Md.,
"August 22, '54.
"Dear Sir:--In reply to your enquiry whether I recollect the time,
and the success of your reaping machine at my father's in 1837, I
answer that I do perfectly; and also seeing it in operation in
company with my friend, Mr. J. H. Luckett, of Balto., at Col. H.
L. Edmondson's of Talbot Co. the same season.
"My father expressed himself highly satisfied with the performance
of the reaper, as did other gentlemen who saw it in operation at
Cheston. So well convinced was my father of the value of the
machine, that he offered you a considerable advance per acre on
your charge for cutting, to remain and reap his two fields, say
125 to 130 acres, which you declined, owing to prior engagements.
At an early date after this trial, my father secured one of your
reapers, and the farm has since never been without.
"My brother, Dr. DeCourcy, has now one which did its work most
excellently well this past harvest, and without any stoppage. With
some trivial repairs, it has been in successful use nearly ten
years.
"Wishing you every possible success with your reaper, for which
the agricultural community owe you a heavy debt,
"I am respectfully yours,
"N. H. ROZIER DE COURCEY."
"Baltimore,
"October 17th, 1854.
"_To Obed Hussey, Esq.:_
"Sir--In the harvest of 1837 I saw one of your Reapers in operation
in my neighborhood [West River, Anne Arundel Co., Md.] in charge of
the Hon. John
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