We send out this the first number of our new volume, anticipating for it a generous welcome, not only from our old friends, but from many new ones. To the extent of our time and means, we have toiled for them faithfully; though conscious that we have not done all that we might, we nevertheless leave our labors to speak for themselves. We shall strive in the future to make the Horticulturist every thing that it should be; we may fall short in some things, but it will not be for want of a desire to excel in our labor of love. The nation is passing through a terrible ordeal, in which our constancy, courage, and love of country are being sorely tried; but the Union will not be divided, for there is no line where a division can be made. We shall come out of this war as we went into it, a united, and, let us trust and pray, a wiser and better people. In the mean time, we shall need all the "aid and comfort" we can get from our friends, and from our enemies too, if we have any. Thus far they have been afforded to a degree which we could hardly have hoped for, and for which we are grateful. We shall strive to deserve their continuance. It will not be out of place here to thank a large number of our friends who have sent us letters of congratulation and commendation.

It is always a satisfaction to know that our labors have, to some extent, been appreciated; besides, it acts as a stimulus to still greater exertions in the future. All these sentiments of kindness, and much more, we most cordially reciprocate. May a kind Providence give them abundantly of all good things. And thus wishing, we send greeting to all our readers - Happy New Year.

Editor's Table #1

We take peculiar pleasure in calling attention to our advertising columns for the present month, where will be found whatever may be required in the operations of the coming spring in the orchard, the vineyard, or the garden, or is calculated to add to the comforts and conveniences of rural life. We venture to say, that those whose energy and enterprise bring them before the public in these war times, are prepared to execute all their orders in a prompt and business-like manner, it may be somewhat remarkable, bat it is a gratifying fact, that during the late depression in all kinds of business, the subscription list of the Horticulturist has steadily and largely increased; and oar advertising patronage for this month quite equals that of any preceding month. The reader should make a careful examination of our advertising columns, not only as a matter of interest and information, but as suggestive of business revival consequent upon the sinking fortunes of the great rebellion.

Editor's Table #2

We desire to call the attention of our readers to our advertising columns, representing as they do the energy and spirit of those who provide all that relates to the useful and ornamental accessories of a Country Home. To those who contemplate extensive operations in the way of planting, no more favorable opportunity could be presented. Prices are lower than they ever will be again, and our leading nurserymen are making it an object for those who wish to purchase, to purchase now. The value of our magazine is well understood by most dealers; it reaches a class who have money to spend, and who desire to be posted on such matters, and those who fail to let themselves be known, are those who make the most complaints about hard times. The self-interest of every nurseryman prompts him to use his influence to extend the circulation of all papers relating to his business; for in the same proportion that the community become educated to the higher enjoyments of country life, so does his business increase; fine fruits, fine trees, flowers, etc., are desired when their value is known.

The refinement of country life, and the rise and progress of such pursuits as they sustain, are mainly due to the influence of the Horticultural press, the progress during the last twenty years being almost marvellous; and this will continue as long as the subscription and advertising lists are so well filled.