Samples of American chestnuts, superior to those of foreign growth both in size and in flavor, have recently been received at the Department of Agriculture, affording a striking illustration of the results of culture and selection. By these means it is believed that the maturity of the chestnut likewise may be materially hastened. Reports received from various sections of the country indicate that the nut may be best prepared for market by being immersed in boiling water for about ten minutes as soon as gathered. Wormy nuts will float on the surface and may be removed ; all eggs and larvae of insects will be destroyed ; and the condition of the meat of the nut will be so changed that it will not become flinty by further curing for winter use, and still be in no wise a "boiled chestnut." The nuts may be dried in the sun or in dry-houses after being placed in sacks in such quantities as to admit of their being spread to the thickness of about two inches, the sacks being frequently turned and shaken. Dried by this method they remain quite tender, retain for a long time the qualities that make them desirable in the fall, and may be safely stored ; but, of course, will not germinate.

A bulletin on nut culture is being prepared by the Division of Pomology, and when published may be obtained by applying to the Secretary of Agriculture, Washington, D. C, or to the Division of Pomology, Department of Agriculture.