THE ARGUMENT.
The poet, after giving some advice concerning the proper age and time in life to marry, as well as making some reflections upon the age and character of the wife to be chosen, proceeds to give some rules and maxims relating to rural occupations, and appropriately begins with Spring, which is the time to plow, and to commence the labors of the year.—Industry and activity in the prosecution of one's labors enjoined.—Autumn the time for clearing forest land and for plowing again.—Recommends, by way of economy, the making of one's own farming implements.—Directions for constructing a plow.—The age at which plowmen and oxen should be chosen.—Directions for sowing and planting.—Prepare for the approach of Winter.—Especial care to be taken of Stock.—The pleasure of beholding one's granaries stored with the fruits of one's own labors.—Live and enjoy.—Employment the best medicine.—Reflections on diligence and idleness, and their different consequences illustrated by a comparison of the comforts which the thrifty enjoy during the inclement season.—Description of a winter storm.—The winter months, instead of being employed in idleness and in squandering one's gains, should be employed in making and mending implements for Summer's work.—Economical directions for clothing one's household.—When Spring comes again, prune the vines and fruit trees.—Summer's labors.—A rural scene and rural repast described.—The time for gathering grapes, with directions for curing, and taking them to press.—Some directions for Navigation, for those who are accustomed to ship their produce.—Rules of moral conduct.
