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VOLUME THE SIXTH.

(thikb series.)

JULY TO DECEMBER, MDCCCLIY.

LONDON :
PUBLISHED BY ROGERSON AND TUXFORD, 246, STRAND.

MAY BE HAD BY ORDER THROUGH ALL BOOKSELLERS.

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LONDON:
PRINTED BY KOGERSON AND TUXFORD, 246, STRAND.

INDEX

Aftermath, on the Stocking of the, ^81

Agriculture and Commerce, Ireland, 351

Agriculture, Calendar of, 172, 362, 456, 544

Agriculture in Egypt, 401

Agi-iculture, Statistics of, 48

Agriculture of a Portion of Normandy. By Cuth-
bert W, Johnson, Esq., 27S

Agriculture, Suggestions for more perfect and eco-
nomical. By John Ewart, 321

Agricultural Biography, 34, 9S

Agricultural Geology of England and Wales, 513

Agricultural Implements, Progress of mechanical
Science in their Construction, 53

Agricultural Intelligence, 79, 174,270.362,457,
549

Agricultural Look into four Counties, 93

Agricultural Meetings, the leading Topics at, 506

Agricultural Meteorology. By Cuthbert W. John-
son, Esq., S9

Agricultural ^luseum in the Crystal Palace, 54

Agricultural Observations addressed to the Duke
Devonshire's Tenantry in the Buxton Agency, 57

Agricultural Possibility, 2S2

Agricultural Reports, 76, 170, 264, 357, 453, 546

Agricultural Returns (Ireland), 523

Agricultural Societies —

Bath and West of England, 24

Driffield, 149

Durham, 230

East Suffolk, 158

Grantham. 426

Loughborough, 382

Norfolk, 69

Northamptonshire, 409

Oxfordshire, 521

Royal South Bucks, 445
• South Devon, 525

Tamworth, 351

Yorkshire, 225
Agricultural Societies, autumnal Meetings of, 314
Agricultural Societies (district^, 6S
Agricultural Statistics, 318
Agricultural Statistics, Lord Berners on, 429
Agricultural Statistics of Hampshire, 311
Agricultural Statistics of Scotland, 396
Agricultural Stock, Prices of, 169
Apples for Cows, 543
Apples, how to keep them, 450
Atmospheric Condition. By J. Towers, 330

Averages, Corn, Michaelmas Rents on, 393
Averages Imperial, S6, 180, 369, 464, 556
Ayrshire Cow, Points of, 353

Babrabam, Annual Sheep Sale at, 146

Barometer, the; with Rules for predicting the

Weather, 448
Bearing Reins, on their Uselessness. By Viscount

Downe, 95
Beef, Mutton, and Bread, 2S6
Bread Stuffs, Supply of, 522
Breeding Stock, the Condition in which they should

be exhibited, 164
Bricks made of Glass, 239
British Agriculture becoming a Man of the World,

192
Buckwheat to kill Switch Grass, 268
Ball, Description of a short-horned, 1
Butter, potted, 263

Caird, Mr., and his Facts, 414

Caird r. Telfer, 430

Calves, Cure for Distemper in, 285

Cattle, Export of Brilish, 55

Cattle, horned, tumefied Glands in, 285

Cattle, on the Over-fattening of, 307

Cattle-trade, Review of the, 77, 171, 265,358,454,

547
Cheese Markets, 87, 276, 370
Chicory, Price of, 88, 181, 557
Cod-liver Oil, Experiments on the Use of, in Fat-
tening Animals, 329
Corn-cutting with the Scythe, 355
Corn, its Produce and Consumption in the United

Kingdom, 493
Corn Trade, Review of the, 82, 176, 271, 365, 459,

551
Corn Statistics In France, 505
Corn V. Cattle, 495
Crimea, Trade of the, 400
Cultivation on the Beatson System, 392
Currency per Imperial Measure, 86, 180, 275,369,
464, 555

D.
Dairies and Pianoes, 407
Dogs, chained, 533
Dorking Fowls, Description of, 1
Drainage by Steam, 394
Drainage, Trunk, 488
Dry Drill v. Water Drill, 485

INDEX.

Earths and Soils, an Essay on. By Cornelius

Welton, of Wickham Market, 342
Educational Question, the, 189
Epidemics, Town Drainage and Manuring the

Land, ]0, 212, 304

F.
Falkirk Tryst, 539
Farm Buildings, 211
Farm Buildings, the Economy of, 499
Farm, Mr. Telfer's, 52S
Farm Schools, 526
Farm, true Value of a, 401
Farms, covered Steadings for. Lord Kinnaird's

Experiments, 52
Farmers, Advice to, 422
Farmers, Caution to, 263
Farmers, Important to, 263
Farmers' Newspapers, 486

Farmers' Clubs —
Carmarthen, 442

London, 38, 168, 500 ,

Probus, 17,449

Farmers, Song of the, 425

Farming of Oxfordshire, Agricultural Geology, 280

Farming (Scotch) — Landlord, Tenant, and La-
bourer, 412

Feeding Substances, on the Economising of, 535

Field Labour, the Horse in, 544

Fish Manure, on the Manufacture of, 530

Flax, Cultivation of, 408

Flax Cultivation — Notes to the Earl of Albemarle
by Sir John MacNeil, 154

Flax Cultivation in India, 402

Flax, its Cultivation in the United Kingdom, 21

Flax, Growth of, 199, 550

Flour-trade, the, 433

Food for the Million — Indian Corn, 387

Food, sustaining Qualities of different kinds of;
353

Fowls, Consumption curable in, 74

French Farmers, 484

Game, Damage done by not recoverable by Law,

539
Gorse or Furze for Cattle, 51
Grass and Nitrogen, 92
Grazing; Gurneyism, as applied to, 268
Green Crops (mildewed), on Feeding oflf, 529
Guano, Adulteration of, 293
Guano Island, discovery of a new one, 399
Guano Island, interesting Visit to a, 398
Guano, Mexican — new Discoveries, 71
Guano, Substitute for, 498

Harvest, the late, 541

Harvest Prospects, 193

Hay Markets, 88, 181, 557

Hereford Steer, Description of, 89

Hide and Skin Markets, 88, 182

Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland,

Meeting at Berwick on Tv/eed, 218
Hops, 544

Hops, Price of, 87, 181, 275, 370, 556
Horse Breeding, Improvements in, 156
Horse, how to know the Age of, 305
Horse, singular Case of Instinct in a, 305
Horses, the Show at Lincoln, 204
Horses, on Breeding, 4
Horticulture, Gas Tar in, 331

Implement Department of our Agricultural Exhi-
bitions, 187

Implements and Machines at Lincoln, Trial of the,
242

Labour, on skilled, 96

Labourers' Friend Societies, their Policy, 75

Labourers' Friend Society, 510

Leaf, the Fall of the, 422

Leicester Sheep (new), Mr. Culley's Description of
one in the Days of Mr. Bakewell, 198

Leicester Sheep (new), the Founder of, 169

Lime, the caloric Action of, 374

Lincoln Exhibition —the Horses, 406

Lincoln Meeting of the Royal Agricultural Society ;
on the Exhibition of the Stock, 104

Lincolnshire (improved) Sheep, Description of,
184

Lincolnshire Rams, 527

Lincolnshire Wolds, &c., 441

Liquid Manures of London ; plan for converting
them into a solid Manure, 438

Malt, Barley, and Hop Trade, 525

Malt Tax, its Repeal the only Settlement of the

new Beer Act Question, 316
Manure, Town Sewage as, 436, 537
Manures, Chemistry of — Guano, 483
Manures, Economy of, 440
Manures, on the Adulteration of, 209
Manures, on the Production and Preservation of,

13
Manures, Price of, 88, 182, 276, 370, 558
Manures, vegetable, solid, and fluid, 12
Mare, Description of Catherine Hayes, a celebrated

One, 89
Meteorological Diary, 81, 173, 269, 361, 452, 545
Metropolitan Cattle Market, the new, 468

INDEX.

Napier, Sir Charles, biographical Sketch of, 183
Norfolk Agricultural Association, to the Members

of, 154

O.
Obituary —

M. M. Milburne, Esq., 16
Oil a Drop of, 407
Oils, Price of, 1S2, 276
Over-feeding, on, 353

Palmerston, Lord, at Romsey, 512 !

Paragreles, Description of, 544
Parliamentary Session, the past, 195
Pigs, the Exhibition of, at Lincoln, 259
Plants, Sexuality of, 543
Pleuro-Pneumonia, Inoculation for, 446
Ploughs, 543

Potato, a new Substitute for, 311, 327
Potato Disease, supposed Antidote against, 527
Potato Disease, the, 190, 276
Potatoes, Price of, 87, 181, 370, 464
Potatoes, the best Method of storing and preserv-
ing during the Winter, 450
Poultry, the Exhibition of, at Lincoln, 260

Race-horse Duty, 441

Ram Sale of Mr. George Turner, 55

Reaper, McCormick's, 551

Reaping Machines, the Competition, 312

Reaping Machines, Progress of — Lincoln Meeting

294
Reviews —

An Essay on the Cause and Cure of the Potato
Rot. By E. C. Roberts, 355
Rice— Food for the Million, 166
Root-crops, on. By Cuthbert W. Johnson, Esq., 2
Royal Agricultural Society of England, 7, 105,

261,497
Royal Agricultural Improvement Society of Ireland

Meeting at Armagh, 231
Rural Architecture, Progress in, 302
Rural Police Bill, 75

S.
Sacks, 434

Season, the present, 534
Seeds, Price of, 87, 181, 275, 369, 464, 556
Servants, Caution to, for absconding from hus.

bandry Service, 74
Settlement, the Law of, 62, 214
Sheep— are small or large the most Profitable ? 75
Sheep, Cotswolds v. Lincolns, 198
Sheep Farming in Australia, 5S

Sheep, Foot-rot in, 310, 435

Sheep Owners, Important to, 341

Sheep-shearing, 56 '

Sheep, the, 290, 423

Short-horns, the Hagnaby Sale of, 308

Short-horns, the Sittyton annual Sale, 356

Short-horns, the Sale at Willesden, 458

Short-horns, Sale in Ii'eland, 458

Short-horned Cattle, 60

Sraithfield Market, Forestalling and Jobbing in, 197

Smoke Nuisance, 213

Statistics of Trade with Russia, &c., for Tallow,

Hemp, Flax, and Linseed, 71
Steam Power, its Application to farming Operations,

59
Stock-feeding. By Cuthbert W. Johnson, Esq ., 465
Stock, on feeding. Experiments with Cod-liver Oib

15
Stockmasters, a V/ord of Caution to, on the

Drought, 289
Stone-weight, Difference in the, 386

Testimonial to Police Constable Partridge, 450

Timber, Price of, 88

Timber Trade of America, l65

Tiptree-hall Farm, 207, 240

Transplanting Apparatus ; McGlashen's Patent,

403
Turnip Crop, Economy in using the Turnip-cutter,

550
Turnip Crop, Reports on Experiments made with

various Manures. By Mr. Kemp Bourne, 354
Turnip-hoeing, on, 153
Turnip, on the Cultivation of, 32

Vermin, bow to clean Animals and Plants from, 75

Wages under Edward the Third, 542

War Prices, 72

Weather-glasSj a new One, 268, 331

Weather, Prognostications of the, 356

Wheat Crop. By Cuthbert W. Johnson, Esq., 185

Wheat Crop of 1854, 494

Wheat, the Origin of, 306

Wheat, the Characteristics of, 332

Wheat, the prospective Price of, 490

Wheat Trade, the, 196, 404

Wheat-sowing. ByCuthbertW. Johnson, Esq., 371

Wheat Weevil, the, 549

Wood Trade, 451

Wool, average Price of half-bred Down and Leices-

ters for thirty-two years, 263
Wool Markets, 88, 175, 182, 276, 370, 464, 557

THE EMBELLISHMENTS.

A Short-horned Bull

Dorking Fowl . . .

A Hereford Steer

Catherine Hayes, a celebrated Mare.

Sir Chaiies Napier ,

Improved Lincolnshire Sheep

A short-horned Cow

Melbourne, the Sire of West Australian

A Cart Stallion

A Hereford Bull

A Southdown Ram

A celebrated French Mare

A Ground Plan of the new Smithfield Cattle Market

Page
1
1

183

184
111
277
371

371
465
465
471

/t^ -^^BfioC -1.' - 't

V^l

111

1^^

THE FARMEK'S MAGAZINE,

JULY, 1854.

PLATE I.

A SHORT-HORNED BULL.

Bred by and the property of mr. richard booth, of wari^aby, near Northallerton,

yorkshire.

"Vanguard," a short-horned bull, was bred by and is the property of Mr. Richard Booth, of
Warlaby, near Northallerton, Yorkshire.

Vanguard (10,994) roan, calved April 3rd, 1847, was got by Buckingham (3,239), dam Isabella, by
Young Matchem (4,422), g. d. Isabella by Pilot (496), gr. g. d. by Agamemnon (9), gr. gr. g. d. by
Mr. Burrell's Bull of Burdon.

Vanguard was exhibited by Mr. Torr, of Aylesby (by whom he is now being used for the fifth
season), at the Meeting of the North Lincolnshire Agricultural Show at Gainsborough, in July,
1853; where he obtained the first prize of twenty sovs., for the best bull of any age (open to all England),
beating a winner at Lewes and several other first class animals. Vanguard obtained a prize in 1849
from the same society, at their annual meeting held at Brigg.

PLATE IL
DORKING FOWL.

PRIZE BIRDS, THE PROPERTY OF HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS PRINCE ALBERT, BRED AND
EXHIBITED BY MR. FISHER HOBBS, OF BOXTED LODGE, ESSEX.

These birds are a select trio from nine which took first and second prizes, with two high
commendations, at the Metropolitan Poultry Show, in January last. They were all exhibited and
bred by Mr. Fisher Hobbs, who sold the three grouped together in our plate to his Royal Highness
Prince Albert, almost immediately on the judges' award being pubhshed.

The Dorking may now be considered the most fashionable variety of poultry we have. At the West
of England Show, the other day, they were clearly the chief attraction, the Cochin Chinas suffering
greatly by comparison with them. As our readers may remember, this is only in accordance with the
opinion we have held from the first as to the real merits of the two. Mr. Hobbs being not only a suc-
cessful exhibitor, but also having tried all kinds, may be considered no mean authority on this point. It
is thus he has publicly given in his adhesion to the Dorking :— " He had tried all kinds, and had come to
the conclusion that there was no bird so fit for common farm premises, and which the farmer could call
his stock, equal to the Dorkings. He believed it was the best bird to place in the farmers' hands as
domestic poultry. No doubt the Cochins had certain properties ; they were good breeders, and produced
eggs at a very early period of the year. For that purpose they were good; but when they came to
consider the great amount of food they consumed, and the inferior quahty of their flesh, he believed, for
general purposes, they would not equal the Dorkings. There were other breeds beneficial for certain
localities and certain purposes. Pie thought the Spanish was a nice bird for a gentleman in a town, or
inn-yard, as it required warmth and would produce a great number of eggs ; it grew very slowly, but
when it came to maturity was a nice bird upon the table. One of their exhibitors, Mr. Punchard, had
made more out of a few Cochin China hens than he had out of his flock of 600 breeding ewes ; but they
could not expect that the high price that enabled him to amass that large sum would continue, and
therefore they must give up the idea of that extravagant price, although at the present day five guineas
for the male bird was hkely to answer the purpose. The Dorkings were in the ascendancy, while the
Cochins were going down."

OLD SEIIIES.] B rVOL. XLI.-No. 1.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

ON ROOT CROPS.

BY CUTHBERT W. JOHNSON, ESa., F.K.S.

The last days of turnip-sowiag for the season
of 1854-55 will have arrived when this essay comes
before the reader. It may be useful, however, to
collect together a few facts with regard to the com-
position and growth of root crops, especially if
we confine our attention to only the most recent
sources of information. A prejudice has been enter-
tained in the northern portion of our island against the
growth of mangel wurzel, which Professor Anderson
has well and laboriously endeavoured to remove
{Trans. High. Soc, 1854, p. 274) : that injurious
opinion is, however, much too widely diffused to
be readily removed, and it will be well therefore if
we examine it a little in detail.

It is commonly said, according to Dr. Anderson,
that mangel wurzel is not suited to the more nor-
thern climate of Scotland, and that although it
forms a profitable crop in the warmer and dryer
climate of England, yet a better result both in
bulk and nutritive value can be obtained in Scot-
land from a crop of turnips. It is true that of late
years the skilful and closely observant Scotch far-
mers have frequently expressed their doubts
regarding the correctness of this opinion, and
small experimental patches of this root have been
sown, which have of late materially increased in
number. It is still, however, little more than an
expei-imental crop, sown only in small quantity, and
there is obviously a great disinclination to rely upon
it to any extent. Weight for weight, however (con-
tinues Professor Anderson), it is unequivocally
superior to the turnip, even though grown in an
imfavourable season. The analyses from which the
Professor obtained his results were made on plants
grown by Mr. Telfer, of Canning Park, Ayr, whose
successful application of liquid manure to the
cultivation of roots is so well known. The experi-
ments were made on three varieties — the long red,
long yellow, and yellow globe ; the examinations
included the leaves and roots. A separate analysis
was made of the upper and lower portions of the
bulb in the long varieties, in order to ascertain the
truth of the common opinion, that the upper portion
of the root is superior in nutritive properties to the
lower portion. I will only give the result of the
analysis of one of these, the long yellow mangel-
wurzel. The following table gives the composition
of 100 parts of the bulb of this, obtained from the
upper and lower portion.

Upper. Lower

Water 88.65 88.22

Ash , 1.25 1.41

Proteine compounds .. 2.28 1.52

Other constituents .... 7.82 8.85

100,00 100.00
IN THE ASH.

Nitrogen = 0.36 0,24

Phosphates 0.09 0,07

Phosphoric acid, com-
bined with alkalies . . 0.02 0.06
In this variety the proteine compounds in the
upper portion of the bulb considerably exceeded
that of the lower portion, but the same result was
not obtained from the examination of the other
varieties of mangel wurzel.

From the result of his experiments, the Professor
constructed the following valuable little table of the
total amount of solid matters and proteine com-
pounds, showing to a great extent their relative

values :

mil Tj Proteine
Total solids, compounds.

Long yellow » 11.57 1-90

Yellow globe 9-76 1.75

Long red 9.44 1,54

Turnip (average) 7. 89 1.27

In this table the superiority of the mangels is
distinctly brought out ; at the same time, it must be
remembered (adds the Professor) that the turnip is
occasionally grown with feeding qualities much
above the averages ; and in one or two instances, I
have found the proportion of proteine compounds
slightly greater in the swede, than even in the long
yellowmangel,butin no case did the amount of solid
matter rise so high. If we calculate from the amount
of proteine compounds the relative value of these
sorts, we obtain the following table, in which the
first column gives the value of each, compared with
the turnip taken as 1. ; the second, the number of
pounds of each, which contain the same amount of
nutritive matters as 100 lbs. of turnips, and which
therefore represents the quantity of each that
may replace that quantity in any feeding experi-
ments. Relative Feeding

"Value. Equivalents.

Turnips 1.00 100

Long yellow mangel wurzel. 1.49 67

Yellow globe 1.37 72

Long red 1.21 82

Average of mangel wurzel.. 1.35 74

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

It thus appears that long yellow mangel is more
valuable than the turnip, in the proportion of 3 to 2,
or in other words, that 2 tons of this mangel will go
as far as 3 of average turnips. We may also re-
member that the weight per acre of an average crop
of mangel wurzel is at least equal to that of turnips,
I learn from Mr, Telfer (concludes Professor An-
derson), that the crop of long yellow mangels,
analyzed, amounted to 34 tons per imperial acre ;
and we learn from the analysis, that the nutritive
matter produced is equal to that contained in about
5] tons of turnips. Mr. Telfer's crop was raised
by means of liquid manure, which has unquestion-
ably many advantages in the cultivation of root
crops. The leaves of the long yellow mangel were
found to contain per cent. —

Water ,,,,. 91.60

Ash 1.77

Proteine compounds 1.77

Other constituents 4,86

10.000

IN THE ASH.

Nitrogen 0.28

Phosphates 0.15

Phosphoric a.cid combined with

alkalies 0,00

It is, from these results, very certain that still
more attention will be paid to the cultivation of
this valuable root. It is probable that by varying
the soil, the manure employed, the time of sowing,
and the variety of mangel, to the climate and situa-
tion, a much greater amount of valuable food
for stock may be raised than any yet generally pro-
duced.

Other valuable researches upon turnips by Pro-
fessor Anderson will be found in the last volume
of the " Highland Society's Transactions." I will
give in this place only the result of another branch
of his enquiries, viz., on the composition of the
the turnips grown on different soils, and with
different manures. In the following table, column
I, gives the soil and crop ; II., the water in 10,000
parts ; HI,, the nitrogen in the fibre ; IV,, the ni-
trogen in the juice ; V., the phosphates. The tur-
nips were grown on the property of Lord Kinnaird,
in Perthshire. The clay soil is the heavy alluvial
clay of the Carse of Go^vrie, whicli is a wheat soil
of the best description. The hill land is a light
loamy soil, of an entirely different character from
the Carse clay, and lets at a much inferior rent.
The black land forms the boundary between the
two former, and partakes of the character of
both, those of the clay, however, preponderat-
ing—

Swedes in 1849,

Clay land

Black land , .

Hill land .........

Swedes in 1850,

Clay land.

Black land

Hill land

Aberdeen yellows, 1849,

Clay land

Black land

Hill land

Aberdeen yellows, 1850,

Clay land

Black land .......

Hill land

III,

IV.

9058.0
9878.0
8712.0

2.9
4.0
1.7

12,9
14.2

26.8

9273.0
9278.0
9278.0

3.7
4.0
4.5

8-6

5.9

10.2

9119.5
9047.8
9057.8

3.6
3,8
3.9

15.9
13.7

24.4

9426,3
9059.0
9399-0

3.1
2,9
3,4

13
12'

16.0
17.6
15.9

9.6
9.0
9.8

16.2
16.7
13.3

6.8
12.1
12.0

The past year has pi'oduced several important
papers upon the growth of turnips, I have given
a digest of these in the " Farmers' Almanac " for
the present year. From this I abridge the following
paper, merely adding a few notices, which will per-
haps be useful to the turnip grower at this season.

Of these, the most valuable of the reports on this all
important crop is that from the Lockerbie Farmers'
Club, of the weight of turnips grown in the season
of 1852, on various farms, about thirty-two in
number, in the middle and upper districts of An-
nandale. In the following table the report of the
first eight farms is only given. Column I. gives
the kind of turnips and breadth of drills in inches ;
II., the weight of turnips in tons and cwts, ; HI.,
the farm-yard dung in cubic yards j IV,, the Peru-
vian guano in lbs, ; V., ground bones in bushels ;
VI., the dissolved bones in lbs., all per imp. acre : —

1, Yellow bullock 26

Hardy green 26

Skirving's swede 26

Hardy green 27

Purple-top yellow .... 27

2, White globe 26

Skirving's swede 26

Hardy green 26

White globe 26

3, Skirving's imper, swede27

Ditto ditto 26

Laing's swede 26^

In these Salhandha B, guano,

4, Curwen's swede 26

Skirving's swede 26

Ditto, Scotch grown . , 24
Purple-top yellow . . , ,25

5, Swedes 27

Green-top ditto 27

Ditto ditto 27

6, Swedes ,.27

Pomeranian white . . , . 27

7, Swedes 27

White globe 27

Yellow bullock 27

8, Swedes 28

White globe 26

II,

IV.

VI.

20 18

180

26 18

180

24 10

224

2718

180

1717

180

20 6

—

112

—

16 3

112

—

13 15

112

—

10 15

112

—

27 1

168

—

168

29 0

168

—

168

28 15

168

—

168

24 19

336

31 2

336

—

25 12

336

—

15 10

336

—

20 4

—

224

—

1710

—

224

—

20 13

—

224

—

448

22 9

—

336

224

20 3

—

336

—

224

28 4

268

—

31 3

268

—

IS 14

268

—

21 7

268

—

23 IS

268

—

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

The general conclusions to which the members
of this intelligent club arrive are that the average
weight in tons and cwts,, per imperial acre, of all
the crops examined by them during the last four
years, were (Trans. High. Soc, 1853, p. 541) —

1849. 1850. 1851. 1852.

Swedes 21 16 24 9 19 16 23 7

Yellow 20 2 19 14 17 0 17 7

Common 22 17 25 14 21 1 23 14

These weights, they consider, exceed that of the
whole district by 10 per cent, on the common white,
5 on the yellow, 7 on the swedes. They advise
that swedes should be sown from the 10th to the
20th of May, not later than the 25th ; white, for
consumption in September, early in May, and again
partially as the last of the season ; yellow after
swedes, and as few as possible after the 15th of
June. Width of drills — from 26 to 29 inches; on
level rich lands, well manured, 30 to 31 inches ; on
haid gravelly soils, and on exposed steep fields,
yellow, about 24 to 25 inches. Width of hoeinr/ —
from 10 to 13 inches. Varieties — the yellow seems
growing out of favour. Manures — that it seems to
the club more and more clearly ascertained that to
farm-yard dung alone, in quantities however great,
extra manure should always be added, as increasing
the weight at a cost far under the value of the ex-
tra produce. That with guano, turnips may be
grown, with dung little decomposed. That bones,
either ground or dissolved, should in most cases,
especially with swedes, be used with guano and
lighter manures. These experiments and observa-
tions were made in a district extending about
twenty-five miles in the valley of the Annan, on
elevations from 100 to 800 feet above sea level.

A novel method of hoeing broad-cast sown tur-
nips by the horse-hoe has been successfully prac-
tised by Mr. Pusey. Itconsistsinhoeingthem across
as well as along the lands [Farmer's Mag., vol.
xxxvii., p. 335.) It seems that Mr. Cottingham, of
Leiston, Mr. Sydney Herbert, Mr. Fielder King,
and other agriculturists, have repeatedly employed
this mode of cheaply hoeing a full plant of turnips.

Much difference of opinion exists, as to the most

advantageous distance at which turnips should be
set out — a conclusion whose correctness must
depend, like most of the other vexed questions of
agriculture, upon soil and situation. In the con-
sideration of the question, the following table may
aid those for whom I have long laboured cheerfully
and gratefully. This gives, in tons, cwts., and lbs.
the weight produced per acre, at different distances,
in inches, each plant supposed to weigh on an
average 1 lb. —

12..
13..
14,.
15..
16..
17..

18..

19..

20..

21..

22..

23..

24..

25..,

26..,

27...

19 18

17 19

16 13

15 11

14 11

13 14

12 19

12 5

11 13

11 2

10 12

10 2

9 14

9 6

8 19

8 12

104

11 44

7 81

7 23

9 29

13 47

19 38

6 83

15 45

5 16

15 92

103

7 34

19 56

12 36

5 78

19 62

14 5

13 6

12 10

11 15

11 2

10 10

10 0

83
77 12

2;ii

35 10
27!lO

6i: 9

2j 9

55, 8

93 8

104' 8

7& 7

l| 7

96j 7

18 6

8 102
13 40

19 70

7 48

16 57
6 76

17 89

9 80
2 37

15 64

18 32

Some valuable experimental investigations on the
fingers-and-toes in turnips, by Mr. M. M.Milburn
(Quar. Jour. Agri., 1853, p. 7'i), lead to the con-
clusion that the following applications per imperial
acre are a complete prevention of this very com-
monly increasing disease —

1. Caustic magnesian lime 3 tons.

2. Ditto ditto ditto 3 tons.

Common salt 20 bushels.

3. Common salt 40 bushels.

While I write this, the public prints inform me
that poor Milburn is gone, at an early age of 38.
His loss is a serious one to the agricultural litera-
ture of his country; for he united to great abilities
and industry, a love of truth, a caution, and clear-
ness, equally valuable and unusual. Many a reader
of this widely circulating magazine will unite with
me in this brief, yet truthful tribute to the memory
of one of its ablest contributors.

ON BREEDING HORSES.

Every farmer of land sbould breed all animals which
it employs at work and all which It fattens, rendering it
a regular manufactory, or workshop, of which it pos-
sesses the necessary elements, and is wholly employed in
the fabrication. Extensive farms, as three hundred or
four hundred acres, should breed horses of two kinds ;
and all farmers who are less extensive should breed work-
horses, which may be sold when not required to replace

the old and worn-out animals on the farm. The idea
that one person can breed animals at a cheaper rate than
another, from some supposed advantages of soil and
situation, is carried much too far. There is no doubt
that such advantages do exist, but not to the extent that
is supposed ; it varies in a very great degree from the
genius of the people being turned in that direction. Any
farmer may be a breeder and a feeder of animals if be

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

turns his attention to the acquisition of the knowledge
that is necessary to plan and conduct it, and to the pro-
vision of the natural means that are required for the suc-
cessful development. If these wants are not supplied,
and if they be not judiciously and perseveringly adminis-
tered, failures can only ensue, as experience has fully
proved.

Two kinds of horses to be bred come within the pro-
vince of the farmer : one for the purposes of riding,
huating, or coaching, and the other for purely agricul-
tural use. The foundation for all breeding is, that " like
produce like ;" and that certain purposes require certain
qualities, which it is the object to produce, and not
singly, but in combination. For quick purposes, elasti-
city and speed are required ; while, for slower uses, more
weight and less promptitude are endurable. The first
thing to be acquired is the knowledge of the parts or
points that are supposed to constitute the different quali-
ties ; and this can only be done by incessant labour and
by the most acute and frequent observation. But with-
out this knowledge it is useless to proceed ; for blunder
would only succeed to blunder, and the whole business
would only terminate in failure. From the want of
this knowledge bad breeds of animals of every kind are
continued, which is wholly chargeable to the ignorance
and apathy of the farmer ; for both the knowledge and
the elements of the qualities exist, and only want the
search and the application. In acquiring this know-
ledge, the farmer must inquire most anxiously into the
practice of those persons who have acquired an eminence
in that branch of his profession, ascertain correctly the
causes which have produced the known results, com-
pare them with his own observations, and then try to
discover the applicability in his own case of similar
causes in order to produce similar results. This recom-
mendation is in the power of every person ; here are no
interferences to check the visual or mental energies ;
there are no restraints on observation, nor any checks
on judgment and reflection. In almost every active
business there are impediments in the way of alteration
or advancement, which are not in the power of the prac-
titioners to remove. But in this case none of any kind
exist ; the field is ample, open, and fair, and the remu-
neration certain.

The farmer whom Fortune may not have supplied with
very ample means, or who may be averse to the costly
importation of the most improved breeds of horses in
order to stock his farm at once, must not fail to acquire
the knowledge above mentioned as the foundation on
which to build the superstructure. This condition being
granted, almost every locality in Britain will supply the
elements of an improved breed ; and it only remains that
the requisite skill be employed in the selection, and con-
tinued in the propagation. The progeny of this selection
have a very great advantage over any imported breeds,
" in being bred in the country, and from elements that
have existed there." From whatever natural cause this
fact may arise, experience has most fully demonstrated
the certainty, showing an identity or alliance between
the animals and the soil that maint:uns them. Almost
every fair in England will afford the farmer the elements
be requires, and at a moderate cost.

The great and very general mistake committed by the
farmer in the breeding of horses consists in thinking any
shape or sort of animal, on the female side, " good
enough to breed from." Accordingly we find yoang
animals void of one single point of recommendation ;
colours many, and most disagreeably marked, and every
point of excellence wanting. Experience in breeding
has not been able to fix the limits of excellence that are
conferred by the male and female respectively ; and in
the absence of any certainty, we may very reasonably
allow an equal share to each agent in the business of
procreation. All the sensitive parts may be derived
from the female, and the male may confer the robust
qualities of organization. It may be safely asserted,
notwithstanding the strong and very general pre-
judice against it, that the value of the progeny de-
pends fully as much, if not more, on the dam than on
the sire ; and that from the neglect of this maxim many
failures and miscarriages have proceeded. An excellent
kind of horse for farm purposes may be obtained by
selecting a choice brood mare of the black-brown or
dark-grey colour, large in body and well shaped, car-
case roomy, bone thin and flat, and legs clean from
shaggy hair ; one cross from a strong thorough-bred
male would produce an offspring combining strength
and action, and possessing power, with spirit to exert it
on strong lands, and quickness of motion for light soils,
and for all work that requires a rapid execution, without
being encumbered with a heavy lumbering carcase,
which is most erroneously supposed to constitute
strength. The female will impart size, strength, and
vigour of constitution capable of performing any work
that is required ; and the male will supply spirit and
muscle to put the strength into action in any instance of
time or purpose. This breed would be almost invalua-
ble if discrimination and judgment be used in seleciing
the parents, especially the female ; the progeny suits
many purposes, and a farther cross would remove them
to the hunting stud. A less degree of breeding on the
side of the male may be reckoned to be sufficient, which
would produce animals of great use, probably superior to
the other, for farming purposes.

The farmer must be very careful in selecting the
female, and may allow a somewhat finer quality in the
male, but not so far different as to form an unseemly
distinction. The qualities of animals that are assorted
for propagation should be much alike ; for if a very wide
gap exist, many crosses must intervene before the quali-
ties could be made to approximate. 'I'he properties
will be more usefully developed in the process of like
qualities advancing step by step to better than in the ill-
consorted adaptation of extremes, which in the process
of meeting may be expected to yield many irregularities.

Much breeding has been attempted in this manner,
and has been stopped before the results had time to ap-
pear, either from unavoidable circumstances or from an
ignorant impatience. The farmer who has the command
of ample means, and who has provided himself with
better ideas, will not hesitate to adopt the higliest mode
that is here recommended ; whi'e the cultivator who is
obliged to tread in an humble path, and who has not at
command the necessary ideas and the ready application

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

of them, may be most earnestly exhorted to use the ma-
terials that are within his reach, though they be of an
inferior order, but which by a steady progression will
lead to the same end.

The farmer must be again reminded that all success in
the breeding of animals is based on the selection of the
parents, and the treatment of the progeny. The funda-
mental axiom consists in " like produce like ;" and
this maxim applies not only to the production of the
qualities of external form and utility, but to the consti-
tutional vigour and the predisposition to disease. Ex-
perience has most fully shown that no animal is more
liable than the horse to transmit blemishes as well as
beauties, and that diseases of all sorts are transmitted to
the progeny : if not in the first generation, they very
speedily appear in that immediately succeeding it. This
consideration increases the necessity of a judicious se-
lection ; for the propagation of diseases of any kind is
even worse than the continuation of unsightly forms and
of condemned points.

The mare from which the farmer intends to breed
must be free from disease of any kind : carcase roomy
— barrel wide, large, and round formed, with the ribs
curving from the back, the short rib " well home," or
leaving a small space between it and the hook bone —
thighs deep and muscular — bone of the legs flat and thin
— clean of rank hair — must have no appearance of
swelling or any kind of thickness— feet clean, firm, and
sound — pasterns short, but not thick and greasy — the
arm in front wide and brawny — chest deep — shoulders
oblique, and sloping backwards at the withers and short-
ening the back — top of the shoulder narrow — neck
rising in an arched form from the withers, and drooping
a little to the set on of the head — crest strong and firm,
and thickening downwards — ears long and fine, and
quick in motion — eye prominent, bold, quick, and lively
— face broad between the eyes, and tapering to the
muzzle — cheek-bone not very broad, which shows
coarseness — muzzle small — lips short and thin — nostrils
expanded, but neat — fore-legs standing well forward,
and not under the belly of the animal— bone clean, and
short in hair — feet standing concave, and not flat — knee-
joints flat and broad — colour of the animal black, or
black-brown, with white on the hind feet, but no more.
A variety of colours shows much cross descent. Horses
that are white in colour, or even having a white hair
mixed in the coat, as grey horses, are reckoned to be
delicate in constitution, and experience seems to confirm
the observation.

The most objectionable points that the farmer has to
guard against are heaviness of form and dulness in action,
and round, heavy, hairy legs. These latter indicate
disease, and never fail to constitute a dull, lumbering
animal, with a sluggish motion and a funereal pace. In
order to remedy this defect, ample elements exist, so
soon as the farmer is able to divest himself of the idea
that bone and flesh constitute strength. A heavy belly
or great depth of rib is also objectionable, showing a
great quantity of offal to be carried about in a loose
state in the shape of guts and entrails. A main point
in breeding lies in reducing the size of the useless parts,
and in getting rid of unnecessary appendages, and the

lightness of oflal ever forms a point of excellence.
Huge bulks must be reduced, and it always formed a
leading point with our first breeders to diminish the size
of the animals, in order to acquire symmetry and com-
pactness, it being an invariable law of nature that bulk
is always attended with a corresponding degree of
coarseness. This point, however, must not be car-
ried too far, as has often been done in the case
of animals that are fattened for the sake of the
flesh, as smallness of size is not so objectionable,
as a greater number may be kept ; but with working-
horses the case is widely difl'erent, where a certain
degree of size is indispensable in order to eff'ect purposes
where a specific strength only is applicable. The
object of the farmer therefore is to retain a certain size
in the animal, and to impart to that bulk the necessary
points of muscle and spirit. But this point cannot be
gained without reducing the bulk in some quarter ; and
that reduction must take place in the useless parts, in
the quantity of bone, of offal, and of flesh ; and the in-
crease must be made in the necessary parts of muscle,
spirit, and action. The productions of nature are so
varied, that an ample store of the elements almost every-
where exists : one animal is found of a finer form than
another, produced by accident — and these varieties aff'ord
the instruments with which the further improvement is
efi'ected. No organ in the animal body shows the results
of a superior organization more quickly and more
durably than the eye : in every case of refined systems
it is prominent, pert, and lively, and forms a point of
great importance in the selection of animals. When the
body is in a state of inaction, the visual organ should
appear placid and easy ; but when any symptoms of
exertions are required, the eye must ever give the first
signal, and communicate to the other parts the intel-
ligence that the time of action has arrived : and these
parts must ever be ready and willing to obey the
summons by being closely knit and joined in com-
bination, compact, and ready for action, and not loose
or disjointed and far between. A horse may be called
society in miniature, the component parts of which
must be ready for action and polished for use, and ad-
justed so that each part assist the other in the most
direct, the most rapid, and most precise combination.
These qualities are obtained under the name of " spirit"
and " action," and proceed from a superior organization
produced by the assorting and joining the similar parts
in combination.

The qualities of the male require asimilar examination ;
for though the best animals are usually kept for the
purpose of propagation, yet a discrimination is essen-
tially necessary. The animal must be clean-legged, with
a flat thin bone ; barrel rounded, and carcase rather
light ; lofty oblique shoulders, tapering withers, arched
neck, and a small head ; eye impetuous, but at the same
time, placid, ears fine and quick in motion, jawbone
narrow, and the muzzle tapering, colour black or black -
brown ; the hind legs white a little above the fetlock, with
a white dot on the forehead, and a white stripe down the
face, are no objection, but any further mixture of colours
must be rejected. It is a sign of hardihood when the
legs are darker in colour than the body. The grey

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

colour of the horse is fashionable ; but, unless the colour
is very dark, it becomes white in age, and experience has
shown that colours having even a degree of white
in the composition denote feebleness and a slight delicacy
in the constitution of the animal. The black-brown or
dark-bay seems to be hardiest of all colours ; and an
animal of that sort, when well bred and of a uniform
Tolour throughout, shows a production of skill and
judgment.

An extreme attenuation of the parts of an organized
body is as bad as the gross composition of it ; for, how-

ever desirable the refinement may be, substance or the
necessary bulk must be retained, not only in the horse,
which requires strength to sustain exertion, but in all
the animals that are used in the easy purposes of pro-
ducing fat and flesh. It is more valuable in the horse,
because the deficiency cannot be supplied by the addition
of number : one animal has its prescribed performance
to execute, and must be independent in itself—the other
animals can be increased to make up the required
amount.

J. D.

ROYAL AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY OF ENGLAND.

Weekly Council, May 24 : Mr. Raymond
Barker, V.P., in the chair. Prof. Simonds, the
veterinary inspector of the Society, resumed and con-
cluded his lecture on the ages of animals as indicated
by their teeth. He confined himself on that occasion
to the teeth of the sheep and the pig. This subject, as
before, was elucidated by reference to admirable
coloured diagrams on a large scale, and to a considerable
number of anatomical specimens, exhibiting the struc-
ture and relative position of the teeth of those animals,
at different stages of their development, as well as to
tabular statements of age at different periods of growth.
Having entered into interesting details connected with
the distinctive character of the teeth in those animals,
and described the mechanical provisions affecting the
chewing of the cud in ruminants, he gave the result of
his examinations in reference to the tusks of the pig,
and the influence of breed, sex, or castration, in modi-
fying their development, which, taken alone, he con-
sidered a very uncertain criterion of age in that animal.
He dwelt on the peculiar character of simple and com-
pound, and the temporary and permanent teeth in sheep
and pigs. He pointed out the remarkable effects of
breeding and feeding in forcing the growth of teeth, and
the total incorrectness of the rules hitherto given on
that subject. He referred to the great importance of
exact data on that point in guarding agricultural
societies from fraud when prizes were intended to be
awarded to animals of distinctly assigned ages. The
results he then laid before the Society were deduced
from a comparison of 2,000 examinations, and it was
only from the opportunities he had possessed, as the
Society's Veterinary Inspector, that he had been enabled
to make so extensive and satisfactory an investigation.
He believed the facts he had obtained in the case of
the pig to be perfectly new. He referred to the sin-
gular circumstance of the pig being born with a certain
liumber of taeth already developed ; to the peculiar
formation of its tongue, which by means of a fringe
had the power of retaining the nipple strongly in its
mouth, without injury from the teeth, while in the act
of sucking ; to the particular ages at which the pig loses
and gains certain teeth ; to the errors connected with
the ordinary modes of estimating the age of pigs by the
tusks alone ; and to the importance of connecting both

the tusks and the incisors in forming a just conclusion
on that point. He cited striking instances how ac-
curately a person might now determine the age of pigs
from the new data his researches had furnished. He
concluded by stating that he believed the facts he had
been enabled, as one of the officers of the Society, to
submit to the members, had not only been justly de-
duced from the numerous investigations he had made,
and were therefore founded on natural circumstance?,
but that they were nearly altogether novel in a phy-
siological point of view ; and that the development of
the teeth of cattle, sheep, and pigs, arising from superior
food and improvement in their breed, as well as greater
care and attention bestowed generally upon their
management, was much earlier than had hitherto been
supposed.

Mr. Miles, M.P., in moving a vote of the best thanks
of the meeting to Professor Simonds, for his admirable
lecture, remarked that nothing could show more clearly
the advantage of a society like their own, than the op-
portunity it had afforded to their veterinary inspector, to
collect, from numerous original sources, the great
amount of valuable practical information that had re-
sulted in the important data then submitted to them, in
reference to the age of the sheep, and especially in the
novel, striking, and connected facts illustrating that
subject, hitherto so little understood, the dentition and
age of the pig. He had not been able to be present
at the first part of the lecture given last week ; but if
that had been as good as the one he had then heard, he
had no hesitation in saying that Prof, Simonds had fully
maintained, and still further confirmed, his high cha-
racter for scientific attainment. — Sir Robert Price, Bart.,
M.P., seconded the vote, which was carried unanimously;
the Chairman remarking that the members would per-
ceive that no assertions were made uncorroborated by
evidence ; and that he, as the chairman of the Veterinary
Committee of the Society, entertained at all times the
fullest appreciation of Prof. Simonds's services.

A Monthly Council was held at the Society's house,
in Hanover-square, on Wednesday, the 7th of June.
The following Members of Council and Governors of
the Society were present : Colonel Challonek, Trus-
tee, in the Chair ; Lord Camoys, Lord Southampton^

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

Sir Stafford Northcote, Bart., Sir Matthew White Rid-
ley, Bart., Sir John V. B. Johnstone, Bart., M.P., Sir
Montague John Cholmeley, Bart., Mr. Arkwright
(Hampton Court), Mr. Raymond Barker, Mr. Barnett,
Mr. Barthropp, Mr. Brandreth, Mr. Cavendish, Mr.
Druce, Mr. Garrett, Mr. Brandreth Gibbs, Mr. Ha-
mond, Mr. Fisher Hobbs, Mr. Hoskyns, Mr. Hudson
(Castleacre), Mr. Jonas, Mr. Kinder, Mr. Lawrence,
Mr. Mil ward. Prof. Simonds, Mr. Simpson, Mr. Slaney,
Mr. Towneley, Mr. Turner (Barton), Captain Vyner,
Prof, Way, Mr. Jonas Webb, and Mr. Woodward.

George Wood, Esq., of Hanger Hill, Middlesex, was
elected one of the Governors of the Society.

The following new Members were elected : —
Arrowsmith, Thomas Charles, Blackfriars'-strcet, Stamford,

Liucolnahire
Barrow, William, Bilbrooke House, Wolverbamptou, Staffs.
Baxter, Richard, M.D., St. Anne's Hill, Blarnej% Ireland
Bowater, Lt.-Geu. Sir Edward, Bt., Richmond Park, Surrey
Cox, Joseph, Wisbeach, Cambridgeshire
Dacre, Joseph, King's Bench Walk, Temple, London
Deacon, John, Mabledon, Tonbridge, Kent
Downe, Viscount, Belgrave-square, London
Tordham, Edward King, Ashwell, Baldock, Herts
Powler, Francis, Henlow, Baldock, Herts
Gildiug, J., Busbley Park Farm, Tewkesbury
Griffith, Trygarn, Caregllwyd, Anglesea, North Wales
Heanley, Thomas, Croft, Wainfleet, Lincolnshire
Holland, Capt. Frederick, R.N., The Hall, Ashbourne, Derby-
shire
Kirkmau, Joseph, jun., 14, Berners-street, London
Mann, Henry, Lighthorne, Kineton, Warwickshire
Marlleet, Charles B., Bassingham, Newark-on-Trent
Moore, John, Littlecott, Huugerford, Berkshire
Pa^e, Isaac, West Bergholt, Colchester, Essex
Parker, John, Idridgehay, Wirksworth, Derbyshiie
Price, John Lewis, Llangwilly, Carmarthen
Pocock, Sir George Edward, Bart., Grosveuor Place, Bath
Pryor, Rev. Frederick B., Bennington Rectory, Stevenage

Herts
Rawson, Christopher, 62, Moorgate-street, London
Rea, Jaraes, Monaugbty, Knighton, Radnorshire
Richardson, John William, Willoughton, Keston-in-Lindsey

Line.
Robinson, Edward, Princess-street, Manchester
Slraw, Thomas, Grutwell, Lincoln
Straw, Frederick, Stonesplace, Skelliugthorpe, Line.
Tripp, Arthur Samp.''ord, Esgair-Evan, Montgomeryshire
Tudor, George, Park House, Laply, Penkridge, Staffs.
Webster, Charles, Cowley, Uxbridge, Middlesex
Whitley, Nicholas, Truro, Cornwall

Wilson, Henry J., Sherwood Hall, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire
Wood, Edward, Exeter College, Oxford
Woriall, Henry, Knotty Ash House, Liverpool.

TiNANCES. — Mr. Raymond Barker, Chairman of the
Finance Committee, read the report on the accounts ;
from which it appeared that the current cush-balance
in the hands of the bankers at the end of the previous
month was .£'I,548.

Lincoln Meetinc. — Mr. Barker then reported
from the General Lincoln Committee the favourable
progress of the works for the ensuing country meeting
in that city, and the numerous entries of implements,
joaachinery, and live-stock for the show.

Prize-Essay.— Mr. Pusey reported from the Journal

Committee the following award in the Miscellaneous
Class of Essays ;

To William Wallace Fyfe, of Nottingham : the prize
of Ten Pounds, for his Report on the Management and
Economical Values of Timber, as the best essay com-
peting in the class of " Any other Agricultural Subject."

Essay. Prizes. — The Council deferred till their next
monthly meeting the final arrangement of the subjects
and amounts of prizes for the essays and reports of
next year.

Indications of Age. — On the motion of Mr. Fisher
Hobbs, seconded by Mr. Hudson, of Castleacre, the
following resolution was agreed to unanimously, namely :
" That on account of the immediate practical importance
of the two lectures recently delivered before the Society
by Prof. Simonds, on the age of animals as shown by
thair teeth, these lectures beat once prepared for publi-
cation in the second part of the Journal for this year ;
but as that number will not be due till the 1st of Jan.
next, that Prof, Simonds be allowed to print off from
the type and wood-cuts as many copies as he may re-
quire for the purpose of publishing the lectures in the
form of a pamphlet, at a cheap rate, in time for pur-
chase by the public at the Lincoln meeting."

Steward of Poultry. — On the motion of Mr.
Fisher Hobbs, seconded by Mr. Hudson, of Castleacre,
Sir Archibald Macdonald, Bart., was appointed the
Steward of the Poultry Department at the Lincoln
meeting.

Judges, — The judges of implements and live-stock
for the Lincoln Meeting were then, with a few excep-
tions, finally appointed.

Country Meeting of 1855. — A report having been
read from the Town- Clerk of Carlisle, on the amount
of railway accommodation in the north of England, it
was carried unanimously, on the motion of Mr. Ray-
mond Barker, seconded by Sir Matthew White Ridley,
Bart., that the city of Carlisle should be the place of
the Society's country meeting next year.

Communications were then submitted to the
Council, and reserved for further consideration, from
Mr. Spooncr, on the National Importance of Pro-
moting Improvement in the Breeding of Cavalry and
Artillery Horses, and from Mr. Frere, on the Appoint-
ment of a Consulting-Botanist to the Society.

Adjourned to Wednesday, June 14th, at 12 o'clock,
when Prof. Way would deliver his lecture on Peat-
Charcoal and other Deodorizing Substances.

Weekly Council. — Mr. Raymond Barker,
V.P., in the chair. The names of 14 candidates for
election, received during the previous week, were read.
Prof. Schilthuis, of Groningen, presented to the Council
a copy of his essay " On the Relations of Agriculture
to tUe Soil and Population, and on the Condition and
Improvement of the Agricultural Classes in the Ne-
therlands;" to which the Gold Medal of the Dutch
Society of Sciences at Haarlem had been awarded, and
which the author offered to the Council on this occasion
" as a token of his homage to the merits of England in

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

agricultural science, and as a proof of his esteem for
the Royal Agricultural Society, also much valued iu his
own country." The Council received this present with
a vote of their best thanks. Mr. Miles, M. P., having
expressed his own views, and those of Mr. Pusey, on
the importance of an early settlement of the prizes to be
offered by the Society for the Essays and Reports of
next year, it was arranged that a special council should
be summoned for that purpose.

Peat-Charcoal. — Prof. Way then proceeded to
deliver a lecture on peat-charcoal and other deodorizing
substances. He remarked that, independently of the
noxious ffases resulting from the putrefaction of animal
matter generally, and which consisted principally of
sulphuretted hydrogen and sulphuret of ammonia,
each particular animal substance, excretionary or
otherwise, had its jjeculiar odour, which, although
abundantly perceptible by the senses, and in many
cases, as in musk, almost inexhaustible, was inappre-
ciable in weight ; therefore, by deodorizing a large
amount of odour, it was not to be inferred that a large
amount of manuring matter was thereby secured. He
then enumerated the various single and double deodo-
rizers that had been employed. He referred to Sir
William Burnett's excellent application of chloride of
zinc, and to the ordinary chloride of lime ; to gypsum
(sulphate of lime), and its conversion in ammoniacal
atmospheres into sulphate of ammonia and carbonate
of lime ; to the agreeable odour of pure ammonia, and
its power of giving intensity to odours of a disagreeable
character, which intensity was lost when the ammonia
was withdrawn ; to sulphate of iron (green copperas),
which, when powdered and thrown into tanks, turned
black, on account of the sulphuret of iron formed on
the decomposition of the sulphuretted hydrogen present.
He then proceeded to the consideration of charcoal as a
deodorizer. He gave an interesting statement of the
peculiar action of charcoals in general, arising, he be-
lieved, from the great amount of surface their spherical
interstices presented, and of the particular action and
superior value of animal charcoal over all others. He
referred to the theory he had been led to form of this
peculiar difference, and to a very successful imitation of
animal charcoal, which he and Mr. Paine had made, in
reference both to deodorizing and decolorizing properties,
from the light porous silica-rock found on Mr. Paine's
estate in Surrey, which, when broken up and steeped in
heated tar, was put into a gas-retort, where the tar was
burnt off in the state of very pure gas, and a residuum left
of the new silicated charcoal in question. He explained
that in charcoals it was not the amount of carbon they
contained that constituted their value, but the mode in
which the carbon was distributed ; that animal charcoal
contained only 10 per cent, of real carbon, while wood
charcoal contained 90 per cent. He referred to the
large amount of water, 50 or 60 per cent., which peat
charcoal took up, and to the fallacious dry state of the
manures with which this water-carrier was mixed. He
feared this mode of introducing water in a latent state
into manures in many cases gave a turn of the scale
more in favour of the manufacturer than of the farmer.

He doubted whether peat charcoal could be used econo-
mically for the purpose of soaking up tank water ; if not,
he feared it would prove of no advantage in other
respects as a remunerative agent to the farmer. It had
been long before the public, but had not progressed in
market value, as it would have done had its application
been successful. He considered it to lead to much error
in practice, that the exact nature of the action of char-
coal on ammonia was not better understood by the
public. Fresh-burnt charcoal would absorb a large
quantity of ammoniacal gas, but it was a mistake to
suppose that it would consequently abstract ammonia
from a liquid impregnated with it ; on the contrary,
water had the power of displacing from charcoal the
whole of the ammonia it had received in a gaseous state
within its pores. Peat charcoal did not either make
manure or separate it from sewage ; it simply rendered
manure portable. He exhibited a striking experiment,
showing the power of dry peat charcoal to arrest odours.
Two open tumblers were half-filled with the most offen-
sive sewage matter Professor Way could obtain, and the
surface of each mass covered with a film of thin paper,
and a thin bed of powdered peat charcoal resting upon
it. These tumblers were in this state handed round to
the members, who ascertained the perfect manner in
which the sewage-matter was thus rendered no longer
offensive to the smell. He then gave an interesting ac-
count of the process of Mr. Stothert, by which sewage-
matter was reduced, by a double-action of purification,
into clear water and inodorous precipitate — a process
admirably adapted for sanitary purposes, although not
for those of agriculture, as the more valuable manuring
matters were held in solution and carried off in the pel-
lucid liquid, while the precipitate was comparatively an
inert mass. Remarks, bearing on the questions brought
before the meeting, were then offered by Mr. Paine, Dr.
Calvert, Sir John Johnstone, Major Wollaston, Mr.
Caird, and the Rev. L. "Vernon Harcourt; and the
thanks of the members were unanimously offered to
Prof. Way, on the motion of Mr. Miles, M.P., seconded
by Mr. Parkins.

Messrs. Stassen and PernoUet had leave to exhibit the
operation of their apparatus for sorting grain and remov-
ing from it all extraneous matters. This operation was
effected by passing the grain through a revolving metallic
plate cylinder divided into compartments having aper-
tures of different size and shape, the grain (freed from
its extraneous accompaniments of small seed, dirt, or
stones) passing out at the end of the machine in a state
fit for sowing.

The Council adjourned to Wednesday, the 21st of
June, at 12 o'clock, when Prof. Way would deliver his
Lecture on the Absorbent Nature of Soils.

A Special Council was held on Wednesday,
the 21st of June. The following Members of Council
and Governors of the Society were present : — Colonel
Challoner, Trustee, in the chair; Lord Camoys,
Lord Berners, Hon. A. Leslie Melville; Sir John
Villiers Shelley, Bart., M.P. ; Sir Matthew White
Ridley, Bart.; Sir Robert Price, Bart., M.P.; Sir

THE FARxMER'S MAGAZINE.

John v. B. Johnstone, Bart., M. P.; Mr, Raymond
Barker (Hambleden), Mr. Raymond Barker (Fairford),
Mr. Gadesdea, Mr. Fisher Hobbs, Mr. Lawes, Mr.
Lawrence, Mr. Miles, M.P., Mr. Slaney, Mr. Towneley,
Captain Vyner, Professor Way, Mr. George Wood, and
Mr. Woodward.

The following subjects and prizes for the reports and
essays to be sent to the Secretary on or before March
1, 1855 (and of which the full terms and conditions of
competition will be given in the next number of the
Society's Journal), were finally arranged.

Farming of Warwicksliire £50

Farming of Buckinghamshire 50

Chemical changes in the fermentation of dung 30
Artificial manures, and principles of their ap-
plication 20

Artificial feeding stuffs 20

Causes of fertility and barrenness in soils .. . 40

Eetention of moisture in dry turnip land. . ., 10

Prevention and cure of mildew in cereal crops 20

Lameness in sheep -and lambs 20

Any other agricultural subjects 10

£270 0 0
Action of Lime. — A weekly Council was then held,
when Professor Way delivered before the members a lec-
ture on the results of a nine months' investigation into
the conditions under which lime affects the absorptive
power of soils in reference to ammonia. These results
were numerically represented in a small table, contain-
ing only four vertical columns, intersected by as many
horizontal spaces ; but would prove, as Professor Way
remarked, of a permanent value, worth all the time and
labour bestowed upon their production, if they should be
found to lead to the establishment of any new principle
in agriculture. His lecture was chiefly occup.ed in the
discussion of these results, and of the clue they might
possibly give to ezplaaations of the mode in which lime
acted upon soils as a manure. The two principal facts
ascertained by these experiments appeared to be the fol-
lowing:—1. I'hat all clay soils, more or less, even
bey.ond the depth of 20 feet, are found to possess a
certain quantity of ammonia, derived, as Professor
Way supposes, from the fishy and vegetable matter
of beds of lakes or rivers, no bed of clay whatever,
he thought, being entirely free from ammonia. 2.
That the addition of lime to a soil set free one-half the
ammonia it contained ; thus acting, in the first instance,
as a " stimulant" to vegetation, but as an exhauster of

the stock of ammonia already in the soil or to be slowly
derived from the atmosphere, if applied in large quan-
tities. The two principal recommendations were — !•
That liming should take place periodically at short in-
tervals, not more than from 8 to 10 bushels per acre
being used every year, or every two years : lime would,
under such circumstances, he thought, be found to be
one of the most useful adjuncts of the farm. 2. That
lime when slaked and mixed with water, forming what
was known as " milk of lime," should be added to tank-
water, and distributed by means of piping, as in the
case of Mr. Mechi's operations at Tiptree, or Mr. Ken-
nedy's, at My re Mill. — Prof. Way, in the course of
this lecture, entered into most interesting details
connected with the chemical machinery of the double
silicates in the soil, by which the action of lime was
regulated ; and with the experiments he had instituted
for showing, in strong comparative contrasts, the results
he had obtained. IJe also pointed out the great im-
portance of giving to land, by means of suitable cultiva-
tion, that condition under which it would best act as an
absorbent of ammonia from the atmosphere. He has
drawn up a complete statement of these details, which
will be submitted in due course to the members, in the
pages of the Society's Journal. Colonel Challoner, Mr.
Woodward, Dr. Calvert, Sir John Johnstone, Mr.
Beale Brown, Lord Berners, Mr. Fisher Hobbs, Mr.
Payne, and Sir Matthew Ridley, favoured the Council
with the results of their own experience in the use of
lime of different kinds, and on various soils. These
results depended much on the nature of the lime itself,
on the mode and time of its application, and on the con-
dition of the land to which it was applied. The chairman
remarked that the great value of discussions on questions
of that kind was the production of evidence indicating
results diametrically opposite to each other, obtained
under the same management, and the great value it
proved of the establishment of sound general principles
in agricultural practice, by means of which exactly the
same results might be expected to recur when repeated
under exactly the same circumstances. On the motion
of Lord Berners, seconded by Mr. Lawrence, the best
thanks of the meeting was voted to Prof. Way, for his
interesting lecture.

The Council then adjourned to their Weekly Meeting
on Wednesday the 28th of June.

EPIDEMICS, TOWN DRAINAGE, AND MANURING THE LAND.

No. IV.

Sir, — In the first of a series of letters which I had
the honourof addressing to Lord Palmerstoa in August
last, I observe, " Whether it be my misfortune or good
fortune, I appear to havo a mind so constituted as to
place me in direct opposition to the reflecting portion of
mankind on all matters connected with natural philoso-
phy. And whilst others suggested the flushing of sewers,

the construction of gigantic tunnels, and sumps, and
pumps, ar.d tanks, the queation of town-drainage
appeared to me to reduce itself to the following simple
heads : —

"1. That rivers are the natural receptacles of the
water of all land drainage, whether of town or country,
but that these should be preserved from pollution.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

" 2. That the atmosphere of towns should be preserved
from pollution by the noxious gases generated during
the putrefaction of the filth necessarily created in towns.

"3. That as the country supplies towns with food,
towns, in return, should provide the country with the
means of producing it."

And Professor Way, in his excellent lecture on ma-
nures, having given his opinion that the application of
sewage to agriculture is secondary in importance to
town drainage as a sanitary measure, I think there can
be no difficulty in showing that all the above essential
requisites may be amply provided for, if matter increase
in iveight, as well as specific gravity, by compression
and contraction ; and in illustration of my views I shall
confine my remarks to the drainage of London and towns
in its vicinity.

A child may readily break singly a number of sticks,
which, when formed into a faggot, would defy the power
of an elephant. Instead, therefore, of accumulating the
sewage of London into one or two unmanageable
masses, in the plans and memoranda submitted by
me to the Commissioners of Sewers, a general outline of
which will be found in their printed papers of 20th
August, 1849, I propose subdividing it as much as pos-
sible. Immediately north of Blackfriars Bridge runs a
high ridge of land, wliich slopes on one side to the east
and on the other to the west. The S3wage of one
portion may therefore be diverted towards the river Lea,
and the other may be carried westward, so high up the
Thames as to discharge where now exist fields and gar-
dens ; whilst those portions near the banks of the
Thames, when relieved of the upland water, may be
drained directly into that river. To this system of
drainage no land can be better disposed than that on the
south side of the Thames, including Lambeth, sloping,
as it does, in every direction towards the river j but the
applicability of such a system must obviously depend
on the practicability of collecting the sewage in the
sewers, aad of preventing the pollution of the atmos-
phere.

To the accomplishment of these objects, I propose
converting the termination of the main or collecting
sewers into what I term " discharging sewers ;" that is,
to make them sufficiently capacious to admit of their
being divided longitudinally into two compartments,
each of which, by transverse walls, will be converted
into dams, and on these transverse walls to put rails, on
which to run a truck. These discharging sewers being
large and nearly level, the water must necessarily pass
through them slowly, and deposit in the dams the matter
held in suspension, agreeably to its specific gravity ; and
when one compartment shall have been filled, the sewage
will be turned into the other, and the matter in the first
filled having been solidified and deodorised, either with
lime or peat charcoal, will be thrown into the trucks and
shot into barges at the mouth of the sewer. That this
system will relieve sewage of all matter held in suspen-
sion, I have not the slightest doubt; but if it should
not. His Royal Highness Prince Albert has presented to
the world a filtering apparatus, of the efficiency of which

ample evidence has been afforded, and which might be
applied to the last dam through which the sewage would
pass : and should there be found any difficulty in solidi-
fying the slushing matter in this dam, but which I do
not anticipate, it might be pumped into barges, con-
taining the requisite deodorizing materials, and con-
veyed either up or down the river for agricultural pur-
poses, leaving the more dense materials of sewage,
such as grit, sand, stones, bricks, and wood, on which
no pump would act, to be removed by hand ; but if the
agriculturist should prefer using the sewage when relieveal
of all solid materials, and pump it over the land, the
townsman can have no objection to his ao doing.

Whether the sewers be made the collectors of the filth of
towns, or used only as means of transit, they cannot well be
more offensive than they already are by this accumulation of
filth, and, under any circumstances, in the vicinity of towns
this filth must not be exposed to the open air. It remains
then to be decided what means can be devised to relieve tlie
atmosphere of its noxious gases, and other pernicious influences.
We have uuquestionable evidence that there are circumstances
that cause the discharge of the gases of sewage to be much
more intolerable than at other periods, and these occur gene-
rally before rain, or when the atmosphere is negatively electric,
when the gases ascend from the sewer atmosphere in search of
the electricity, necessary for their condensation. In the plans,
therefore, submitted by me for the ventilation of sewers, ao
far back as 1818, 1 propose obtaining this supply of electricity
from above the atmosphere in which we live, by connecting the
sewers with ventilating shafts, armed with electrical points,
which points, on the unquestionable testimony of Mr. Andrew
Crosse, will draw dov/n electricity from the upper or surround-
ing regions ; the atmosphere, on the evidence afforded by the
late Mr. William Henry Weekes, being electric in proportion
to its distance from the earth ; it signifying little whether this
ventilation be afforded by shafts erected in open spaces, or by
tubes in connection with dwellings, care being taken that their
discharge be above the tops of the houses.

Here, at least, we have a plan for town drainage that has a
conclusion, which is more than can he said of any scheme that
has as yet been submitted to public consideration, and,
furthermore, it is based on fixed principles in nature. And
what, may I ask, is the principal causi of the very offensive
condition of the Thames, and of all other tidal rivers with
towns oa their hanks ? Daring two-thirds of the flood and of
the ebb, the water is dammed back in the sewer ; and during
this period, the solid matter of sewage is deposited in the
sewer, so that a short time before, and during low water, when
the sewage has a clear exit, the whole of this offensive matter
is washed out on the mad of the river — an evil which my plan
must obviously rectify, and the object is accomplished without
poisoning the atmosphere of the town. But if the sewage
were first tumbled into a deep tunnel, as proposed for Lam-
beth in the last plan of the Commissioners, the sewers must
necessarily be rendered tenfold more offensive, and to pump
such an offensive matter into open tanks, in the centre of such
a densely populated neighbourhood as Deptford, could not fail
in being attended with the most disastrous consequences.
The plan, I respectfully submit, on which the metropoUs is to
he drained, must form the ground-work of the constitution
of the commission or commissions to direct the operations,
Franklin CoxwoRTny,

Author of " Electrical Condition,"

Muresfield, Sussex, May 21 ,

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

VEGETABLE MANURES^ SOLID AND FLUID.

Green manures have often been advocated, and
have sometimes been applied, but not as a part of
any regular system of culture, save of late years, in
the case of turnip leaves, which many farmers cut
off and plough in for wheat, to be sown in the end
of autumn or in winter ; and in this climate the
practice of ploughing down green manure just be-
fore winter, when the soil is moist and cold, is not
in every respect commendable, though certainly
experience teaches that it may be profitable, except
where the soil may be sour or retentive from want
of drainage. The presence of water is essential to
the decomposition of vegetables when covered with
earth, but the heat of the soil in summer is also
beneficial ; hence the best time to plough-in green
manure is previous to the planting of potatoes and
sowing of turnips in May or June, and the sowing
of fallow wheat in the early part of autumn. On
fallows mustard or rape are sometimes sown, and
the young plants ploughed down when in the full
luxuriance of their early growth. The putrefaction
of the vegetables thus treated, resulting as it does
in the emission of various gases, appears to nourish
and invigorate the cultivated plants for whose
benefit the operation is intended. Various kinds
of gases are emitted by different plants when
putrefying. Broom smells strongly of ammonia,
and it is'found that ammonia is emitted by all plants
which contain gluten. This explains why the green
twigs of broom constitute such a rich vegetable
manure. Onions and some other plants evolve
phosphuretted hydrogen ; and from green manure
in general, carbonic acid gas and hydrogen gas are
usually formed, besides various kinds of vegetable
matters more or less nourishing to growing plants.
Sea-weed forms a pecuUarly rich vegetable manure,
containing, as it does, saline principles of which
ordinary vegetables possess comparatively little.
In practice, it is found that the heaviest corn on
newly broken up pasture ground comes after the
closest and most verdant turf, and that where red
clover in an arable field has been most luxuriant,
the succeeding crop of wheat will be weightiest.
Where rape, mustard, buckwheat, or any other
plant is sown for the purpose of being ploughed
down as green manure, it should not be allowed to
pass the flowering stage ; and the greatest amovint
of nutrition will be conveyed to the soil by plough-
ing down just when the flower begins to appear.
After this, the plants, if allowed to grow, would
begin to abstract from the soil more than they
would return to it when converted into green ma-

nure. "When ploughed down they afford, in
time, saccharine, mucilaginous, and extractive mat-
ters, which gradually decompose, and continue to
enrich the soil for years.

It was long thought by cultivators, that vegetable
matters should not be used as manure till putrefac-
tion had nearly destroyed all organic texture. Mr.
Knight was amongst the first to advocate the em-
plo3'ment of green manures on scientific principles,
and experience showed him that many vegetable
substances are best calculated to re-assume an
organic living state when they are least changed or
decomposed by putrefaction, or when they are
mixed with the soil immediately when in the full
vigour of their growth. In Germany it has long
been the practice to dig down vine prunings as
manure in vineyards ; and it is found that the tender
shoots and leaves of the vine decompose so rapidly
when mixed with the soil, that no trace of them can
be found by turning up the soil four weeks after-
wards.

Green manures, unless very succulent, require
to be applied to turnips with caution. Such kinds
as broom twigs or fern leaves will keep the soil too
open below the young plants, and as the seed-leaves
of the turnip afford little nourishment to support
the plants in their first stage, the plants may suffer,
especially in poor or light soils, or in very dry
weather. The drier and woodier kinds of green
manure should, therefore, be partially fermented
before application, so as to cause an exudation of
their juices, and also to cause their parts to lie
closer in the bottom of the drills, and thus obviate
the evil of keeping the soil too open. Turnips
sown over green broom have failed, just because it
kept the soil too open and dry under them. Fern
leaves are liable to a similar objection, unless first
partially fermented ; but this can be done by laying
them in a heap for a few days.

Broom twigs, when applied as manure to
potatoes, have been known to cause an increase of 1 7
per cent, over portions of the field manured from
the farm-yard in the common way. The leaves of
the gigantic cow-parsnip are better adapted for
turnips, being juicy and succulent, and soon de-
caying, so as not to keep the soil open ; but they
do equally well in the potato field ; and this plant
grows with so much vigour as to afford a large
bulk of foliage to be ploughed in with potatoes by
the end of April, and a second cutting, nearly of
equal bulk, to be used as manure for turnips in
the early part of June. Every cottager who pos-

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

sesses a garden, and has neither a cow nor a pig,
should endeavour to set apart a waste corner, where
the soil is rich and deep, for a few plants of this
giant among herbs, that he may be able to manure
his late potatoes, and also his winter cabbages and
greens, with its leaves.

We refrain from further remarks on green ma-
nures, having before made some statements re-
garding their importance ; but it may be of interest
to refer to those experiments that were made and
recorded by Mr. R. P. Drummond, in order to
prove their usefulness, and to show that they can-
not become really useful unless water be present
in the soil in sufficient quantity to aid in their
decomposition, and to retain part of their substance
in a soluble state till it is taken up by the roots of
plants. Mr. Drummond had an upright cask,
with one end taken out, filled with leaves of cabbage
and other succulent plants, these being pressed
down and rain water added until the mass rose
level with the rim of the cask. Putrefaction pro-
ceeded quickly, and was complete in three or four
weeks, the time varying on occasion of different
experiments according to the heat or coolness of
the weather. That he might be the more certain
of the fertilizing eflfects of this water (which must
have contained much animal matter in the form of
microscopic insects), he subjected 500 scarlet
geraniums to experiment, they having been exposed
for the greater part of the year to all the variations
of the weather, being pot-bound, or having the
pots filled with their roots, and thus having nothing
to subsist on but what was supplied them in a
liquid state. For upwards of a month one-half of
them were watered from the cask, and the other
half with rain water in its natural state; and at
the expiration of that period the experimenter
states, no one ignorant of their treatment could
have believed that they were all of the same age,
and had been treated ahke in every other respect,
the difference was so much in favour of those
which had been supplied with the water containing

dissolved vegetable matter. They had grown
more A'igorously, and their leaves were larger, and
of a darker green. Every experienced horticultu-
rist could have anticipated such a result, and the
practice of applying liquid of this kind to garden
plants is far from being novel : but a defined ex-
periment is nevertheless worth recording, were it
but to render a truth more impressive and more
fitted to excite attention.

It is easy to conceive that this liquid might b e
enriched by mixing it with ordinary liquid manure
derived from animal secretions ; but urine may be
still farther useful when so used, for, when the
liquid is required speedily, a mixture of urine with
the rain water will cause the vegetable fibre to be
decomposed with greater faciUty. For this reason
Mr. Mechi mixes straw and vegetable refuse with
animal manures in his tanks ; only he adds mineral
substances, which by their chemical action render
the process of decomposition still more speedy.

On farms there will always be an opportunity of
mixing animal with vegetable substances in pre-
paring liquid manures ; but the gardener often-
times has difficulty in procuring manures from the
farm-yard, and to him therefore the cask of
vegetable water may prove a valuable resource.
And to have a constant supply he ought to have
two or more casks, if not small tanks, so that,
while he is withdrawing the liquid gradually from
one, that in the other may be in course of prepara-
tion. When using this vegetable liquid in a close
house such as a stove or greenhouse, it has been
recommended to mix sulphuric acid or some other
fixing substance with it, so as to prevent the gases
from filling the place with noxious effluvia. The
cottager might have a cask or two sunk into the
ground in a corner of his garden, into which he
might cast the refuse of his vegetables, filling them
up with rain water, or with soft pond water when
it cannot be obtained. " Waste not, want not," is
true in every department of agriculture and garden-
ing.

UPON THE PRODUCTION AND PRESERVATION OF MANURES.

' The difficulties which are felt in obtaining guanos
and other portable manures in sufficient quantities,
and at reasonable rates, should induce farmers to
bestow more care upon the production and preser-
vation of all substances capable of being employed
as manures. As regards production of manures,
every vegetable or animal product is calculated to
swell the manure heap. Animal products are, from
their containing a larger per-centage of nitrogen,
morevaluablethanvegetableproducts; and although

none of the latter should be allowed to run to
waste, all animal matter connected with the farm,
or which can be cheaply obtained, should be care-
fully collected, and added to the manure heap.
Where the cleaning of slaughter-houses or the re-
fuse of fisheries can be so obtained, these should
be added from time to time. Where such animal
matter can be obtained, peat earth, saw-dust, sand,
or clay, &c., should be mixed up with it, to absorb
the hquid, and also retain the ammonia, which is

THE FxiRMER'S MAGAZINE.

in some forms extremely volatile. Weeds, when
once their vitality is destroyed, make excellent fer-
tilizers when mixed up with other manures, The
chief danger is from the roots or seeds of these
escaping destruction during languid fermenta-
tion, and thus re-appearing to exhaust the soil and
otherv/ise interfere with cultivation. Upon the sea
coast, in many localities, much valuable vegetable
matter is obtained. This is usually cast ashore by
the tides ; sometimes it is cut where growing, to
be afterwards floated ashore by the tide. The great
drawback to seaweed in a green state is the expense
of carriage; but where this is at the minimum, sea-
weed becomes a valuable fertilizer. It is not liable
to any objection from the roots or seeds possessing
vitality when placed in the soil. It may be used
to decompose strawy manure; but as it possesses
most power when applied in a green state, it is
seldom advisable to apply it to any other purpose
than to cart it direct to the soil, spreading it as
carted.

Summer is not the season to obtain the leaves of
trees ; but at the fall of the leaf, these can in some
situations be collected and used as litter for stock.
During summer, or towards autumn, ferns and
other plants can be also easily collected. Ferns do
not possess a high manurial value ; but as they
readily absorb liquid, they can be advantageously
used for litter. In the neighbourhood of the New
Forest, Hants, hay made from ferns appear to be
much used. We saw them so employed in a post-
ing establishment at Lyndhurst. When cut in
proper season, they doubtless can be so employed
with advantage ; but we beheve it will generally be
more profitable to use them for litter, thus adding
to the manure-heap. There are sevei'al other vege-
table substances which will occur to our readers.
These are used as litter, and with the extending
system of soiling stock, much valuable manure can
be manufactured.

But neglect in the preservation of farm-yard
manure is usually more palpable than neglect in
collecting substances to form a large manure-heap.
The courts for manufacturing manure are frequently
so arranged, that exposed to rains and the drooping
from the roof of adjacent buildings, much that is
valuable is, especially during wet, washed out of it,
and carried away to some neighbouring ditch.
Sometimes the drainage of the farm offices is so
defective, that these act as drains for the liquid
manure. To add to the evil, it is not unfrequent
that the liquid from the stables, byres, and other
outhouses, is allowed to run to waste, polluting the
atmosphere, and in a brown stream oozing away
from the farmstead : gold, only in a different form,
is escaping from the grasp of the farmer. Although
no advocate for the apphcation of manure in a U-

quid form, we think it cannot be too strongly im-
pressed upon agriculturists, that the most valuable
ingredients of the muck heap are certain to escape,
if the liquid flowing from it is not collected and
again put over the mass. If the portion of liquid
is more than the manure will retain, it should be
used for saturating dry peat-earth or dry mould.
It should never be forgot that the urine of animals
is the most valuable part of the excreta of animals,
and is, under ordinary circumstances, all absorbed
by the litter ; but there are cases where this not so
absorbed ; in such cases, to allow it to escape is a
sad waste. The liquid escaping from the muck
heap, from the excess of rain water, is not manuri-
ally so valuable as urine ; still it possesses so much
fertilizing matter, that none of it should be allowed
to escape after it is once formed. Under good farm
management, however, little of it will be formed.
During the season of thunder storms with heavy
rains, manure made in open courts will have a sur-
plus of moisture, but this will seldom be in excess,
and is, perhaps, one of the strongest arguments for
feeding in boxes, or, at all events, proves the im-
poi'tance of having in accommodation for stock a
system of spouts to carry away from the roofs all
the rain water which falls upon them.

We have already spoken of peat-earth to increase
the manure heap, and to preserve the fertilizing
qualities of all kinds of bulky manures. No sub-
stance is so generally available in Scotland and
Ireland, and no substance is better adapted for the
purpose. Hitherto, the use of it for this purpose
is all but universally neglected, although for the
purpose of mixing with farm-yard manure and
lime to form a compost, it was strenuously advo-
cated by Lord Kaimes. When we come to speak
of compost heaps, we may again refer to it.

Hitherto, we have spoken of the escape of fer-
titizing matter in the liquid form. Loss also accrues
from the escape of matter in a gaseous form. Am-
monia, the most valuable, and at the same time the
most volatile, readily passes into the atmosphere.
When fermentation rises to a certain height, this
escape is constant. To keep fermentation in check,
and to fix the ammonia for retention, should be
the study of the farmer. Here, dry peat becomes
a valuable auxiliary, also dry movild. Some have
advocated the adding of gypsum ; it is, however,
found in practice not to answer the expectations
which were at one time formed of it. No substance
has yet been recommended better than dry peat or
dry mould. Sawdust, where it can be obtained in
sufficient quantities, makes an excellent addition or
covering for the manure heap. As a rule, all farm-
yard manure should be applied to, and mixed with
the soil, as speedily as possible; but during sum-
mer, at least, tliis hecomes all but impracticable. It

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

is under such circumstances, therefore, that a
covering of some sort should be apphed.

In the straw courts, care should be taken to mix
all the different kinds of manure together, stable
and byre manure. Horse dung is very liable to
become overheated, and become what is termed
firefanged. Keeping it level, and by treading it
close by cattle, this can be very much checked, if
not wholly prevented. When the mass of manure
is treaded closely, evaporation carrying off the vo-
latile particles is almost wholly prevented.

From what has been stated, it will be understood
that the custom of turning manure heaps to hasten
decomposition is so far injurious ; but to quicken
decomposition, it is often a saving of time, and
where a root crop, such as the turnip, requires the
manure in a concentrated form and ready for ac-
tion, the turning of the heap becomes a neces-
sity. When turning is resorted to, it should be
well watered at the time, and some substance
throv/n loosely over the top and sides. Here,
again, peat-earth and dry mould can be made avail-
able.

The mixing of street and other town manure
with farm-yard dung has been frequently recom-
mended. When mixed, it is generally advisable to
apply it within one month to the soil. By mixing
these together, the action of both seems to be

increased. A series of well-conducted experiments
on this subject would not fail to be interesting, and
is at present much required.

In the neighbourhood of Edinburgh immense
masses of street manures are stored at present.
We are at a loss to account for this, except that the
police authorities are determined only to part with
it upon their own terms — making, in short, a mo-
nopoly price. Certainly, the prices hitherto ob-
tained for the pohce manure have been higher than
in any other town of the same population we are
acquainted with, and surely the Police Commis-
sioners are not cognisant of the fact that pohce
manure loses bulk and weight to a very consider-
able degree ; it does so less than strawy manure,
but still it does lose weight — perhaps about one-fifth
in three months. One or two experiments of
weighing one or more hundred tons, and after
three months re-weighing, would tell a tale not
very creditable to the present enlightenment of
Pohce Commissioners. Apart from sanatory rea-
sons, therefore, all police refuse should be parted
with as soon after it is collected as possible. In
this manner the interest of the corporation is
studied, and public health not endangered by the
massing together of vegetable and animal matter.
— North British Agriculturist.

FEEDING OF STOCK.— EXPERIMENTS WITH COD-LIVER OIL.

We seem to be arriving step by step at the prin-
ciples of agricultural science. The process may be
slow and gradual; the means may be few and limited;
and when arrived at, there may be many saving
clauses and many exceptions arising from modifi-
cations of soil, of climate, and of circumstances ;
but the settling of afew sound principles in manuring
crops and in feeding stock is of such vast general
importance, that its value is but little affected by the
few exceptional cases which continually will, from
the nature of things, almost necessarily arise.

We can remember the day when a manure had
to be tried and tested a few years in succession
before it could be known whether it was good or
bad, whether it would answer or not ; and when
practice showed it did, we were no wiser as to why
it did, nor did we know a whit better whether t e
next manure of a somewhat like origin would be
equaUy good or be utterly worthless, because we
knew not the principles of its application.

Science has enhghtened us. We well remember
two earnest agricultural writers contending as to
the fertihzing element in bones — one, that it was
the phosphates to which their value was to be at-

tributed, and another that it was to their nitrogen.
The fact is, it was simply to both ; but we now
begin to inquire if there are, in a given manure, the
requisite proportions of nitrogen, of phosphates,
and perhaps of potash and chlorine ; and then we
know what its results will be, to a positive certainty.

And so with the feeding of stock. We know
that fat is composed of the elements of the air and
the water, that it is very nearly identical with the
vegetable oil in its composition, and we might
almost expect the fatting result to be the same.

Mr. Lawes seems to have established the fact, at
least, that the nitrogenous materials are vxseful to
growth, and possibly to supply waste ; but sac-
charine and oleaginous matters are necessary in
large proportions to feed rapidly and at a small ex-
penditure of food.

If we for a moment consider the abstract position
of a fatting animal, we shall find that though he
consumes sugar and starch, the elements of which
sustain respiration, yet he must also lay up in the
interstices of his muscles or upon his rump-crop a
given quantity of fat ; and it is in accordance with
reason to think that if some of this fat were sup-

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

plied ready formed, the vital energy would be less
taxed to deposit it, than if it had to decompose by
its vital process the combination of sugar or gum
or starch, and to recombine them again in the
formation of fat. So far was this princijjle carried,
that one chemical experimentalist advised the feed-
ing of pigs on fat pork ; but we see, though we do
not go so far, the common-sense of cooking the
linseed, as Mr. Hutton does, which contains all the
oil, rather than feed on the refuse — the oilcake, from
which, in fact, the oil has all been most carefully
expressed.

We were not quite prepared, however, for the
step taken by Dr. Pollock, and detailed by him in
the Lancet, of fattening animals by the addition to
their ordinary food of cod-liver oil.

As an efficient medical agent in chronic diseases,
it is no doubt a most remarkable and power-
ful auxiliary ; and as our Newfoundland fisheries
afford us the means of vast supplies, we will give
to our readers an outline of the experiments de-
tailed by Dr. Pollock and made by a practical man,
to set them to work trying the very simple experi-
ment whether some little addition may not be made
to the materials they use in fattening, with some
greater degree of success than pursuing their old
method.

Dr. Pollock does not give us the name of his
practical friend, to whom he trusted the experiments
made on cattle, on sheep, and on pigs ; but his
own name is sufhcient to indicate him to be a re-
spectable man and worthy of credit. Commencing
with the animals which may be most easily induced
to take anything— p/p-*. The experimentalist was an
extensive feeder, and killed 20 to 30 per week. He
separated first 20 pigs from the rest, and added 2 oz.
per day each of the cod-liver oil, with as much
meal as both lots would take. Those which had the
oil ate less meal, weighed the heaviest, and made
the most money per stone in London. He sub-
sequently found that one ounce of oil per day was
better than two, for small porkings; and though
he has gone so far as to give a quarter of a pint
per day to large, full-grown pigs, and also to small
ones, he found it did not pay, nor was his pork so
valuable. " When given in small quantities it was
profitable, as the animal fatted upon a less amount
of food, the oil tending to produce fat quickly."

AVith sheep he proved that by the addition of one
ounce per day they fatted quickly, had beautifully
white fat, and the 80 sheep so treated " gave general
satisfaction to the consumers, though the butchers
complained of lighter weight than the appearance
of the sheep led them to expect."

On bullocks he tried the experiment by giving a
quarter of a pint to three-quarters of a pint per day,
and he says the ten shorthorns to which the cod-
liver oil was given " paid better than any other
bullocks." He is now trying the experiment with
Herefords, part being supplied with the oil and part
without.

He gave the oil to his bullocks mixed with their
meal and chaff, commencing with the minimum and
ending with the maximum quantity named above ;
to his pigs it was gven in dry meal, and to the
sheep in the shape of split beans steeped in the oil.

The oil costs from 2s. 8d. to 3s. per gallon.

We give his facts, and leave our readers to draw
their own conclusions. We could have wished the
experiments to have been more precise and the re-
sults a little more carefully detailed ; but we really
see no reason why a small dose of fresh, not ran-
cid cod liver oil, should not assist at least the or-
dinary feeding materials on a farm. How far this
could be combined with some one or other of the
many kinds of cooked food now adopted, to pro-
duce fat, by being added to the chaff or a little
meal in the pastures — we think is at least worth a
trial to ascertain, if it be only on a small scale at
the commencement.

THE LATE M. M. MILBURN, ESQ.— This gentleman,
whose greatly lamented death, at the age of 38, took place
May 27th, was the only child of a respectable farmer, who lived
(till hia death, sixteen years ago) on his small paternal inherit-
ance, at Thorpfield, near Thirsk. He gave early indications of
kindliness and talent ; and soon after leaving Sowerby Grange
Academy, he became a frequent contributor to the Conservative
local newspapers. Though busily employed on his father's
farm, he diligently cultivated his mind. Ere long he distin-
guished himself by gaining several prizes for essays on subjects
connected with agriculture ; and up to his death he wrote a
great deal for the leading agricultural netvspapers and maga-
zines. His long connection with the Yorkshire Agricultural
Society is extensively known. His indefatigable labours as
its secretary unquestionably tended greatly to its success, and
they were handsomely acknowledged a few years ago by the
presentation to him of some silver plate. The loss which that
important society must have sustained by his premature re-
moval will not be easily repaired. After he left Thorpfield to
live at Sowerby, his time became fully occupied with his mul-
tifarious engageinents as land-agent, &c,, in all which he acted
with characteristic energy and unswerving integrity. A more
upright man never lived ; and he lived not to himself, but was
always earnest in his endeavours for the temporal and spiritual
good of his fellow-creatures, especially of the young men of his
neighbourhood, in whose welfare he took peculiar interest.
Often, indeed, were his counsel and help sought, and they were
most freely rendered. The labouring classes had his kindly
regard almost from his very childhood. He was emphatically
the poor man's friend : and in the sacred home relations of
life he was highly exemplary. In short, he was a man of great
public and private, moral and religious worth. To say he was
free from foible or failing, would be to forget that " to err is
human." But we may hardly hope to "look upon his like
again." His death occurred after only a few hours' illness, in
the prime of his life, and in the midst of his usefulness. His
remains were interred on Sunday morning, in the church-
yard of his own village, amid a large gathering of sincere
mourners. The service was read with impressiveuess and
feeling, by the Rev. S. Coates, whose ministry was highly
valued by the departed. We have great satisfaction in stating
that the deceased's very dear personal friend, the Rev. J. C.
Raw, preached a funeral sermon in the parish church of Ain-
derby Steeple, on Sunday, June 4th. — Yorkshire Gazette.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

PROBUS FARMERS' CLUB.

LECTURE BY MR. TRETHEWY.

At the montlily meeting of this dub there vv'as a
full attendance of the members, and the chair was
taken by Mr. Tresawna, the president of the club.
The secretarj^, Mr. H. Tresawna, brought before
the meeting an application from a committee formed
at the Farmers' Club Rooms, Blackfriars, soliciting
a subscription towards an annuity fund for Mrs.
Shaw, the widow of the late Mr. Shaw, of London,
who, becoming connected with the Islington Cattle
Market, had been involved in pecuniary obligations,
and emigrated to Australia to retrieve his lost for-
tune, and shortly after his arrival there, died of
malignant fever, leaving his widow destitute of
support. la consideration of Mr. Shaw's acknow-
ledged services to the landed and farming interests,
when he was in this country, the club voted £2
towards his widow's annuity fund, which was
unanimously agreed to, on the motion of Mr. Ken-
dall, seconded by Mr. W. Trethewy.

Mr. Trethewy, sen., then proceeded to deliver
an interesting lecture " On the importance of keep-
ing young stock in a thriving condition." He first
alluded to the miserable system so frequently prac-
tised in the rearing of j'^oung cattle in many dis-
tricts in Cornwall. In order to fatten two or three
bullocks, the young stock, he said, are deprived of
the few turnips which would have carried them
through the winter in an improving state, and are
kept instead on nothing but straw, whilst the breed-
ing animals consume the hay and roots. The con-
sequence of which is, that in the spring, when the
young stock are turned to grass, they require every-
thing they can obtain in the shape of fodder, for
the first two or three months, to get them in a
moderate condition, and after all are not much
better off than many would have been at the end
of the winter, had they been but fairly supplied
with turnips, hay, or linseed cake. Animals so
treated never attain a full size ; they are stinted in
their food, and become stunted in growth; and
hence we frequently see, at our fairs and markets,
young cattle that have been properly reared sold
fat at two or three years old, for more value than
ill-kept stock at four or five years old. The differ-
ence in the expense of keep for the first six months
in the feeding in the two cases is very little — per-
haps none ; and during the next twelve months,
one lot we will suppose are well kept, the other in-
differently ; the following year the former are made
fit for the butcher, and worth probably £20 and

upwards, whilst the latter, which have been allowed
to "run," as it is termed, with often more toil than
pleasure to procure enough food to satisfy their
wants, are scarcely worth more than from £7 to
£lO. I have seen (said Mr. Trethewy) during the
past season a number of steers, from two and a half
or three years old, tied up to fatten, that have been
reared ni this miserable manner, not heavier than
some yearlings in this neighbourhood. Now I ask
if the yearling is equal in value to the three years
old, and supposing — which is impossible-^that the
keep of the one during the twelve months costs as
much as that of the other during the three years,
which is the most profitable to the breeder ? Why
the one year old certainly, however expensively it
might have bc:^n reared. The fact is, young stock
of all descriptions, whether cattle, eheep, horses,
or pigs, if not improving in condition, must be re-
trograding or at a standstill, which is similar to a
man allowing a sura of money to remain idle,
making no interest. He was sorry to say that this
starving system of rearing stock was more common
than was generally known, the consequence fre-
quently of farmers rearing more stock than they
are able to keep well. This is a mistake which he
would warn all agriculturists to beware of, as it is
undoubtedly more profitable to rear a smaller num-
ber, and keep them in a progressing state, than to
have a large number of half-starved animals. The
author of the prize essay on the Farming of Corn-
wall, Mr. Karkeek, in alluding to this short-sighted
system of economy, strongly reprobates the prac-
tice of keeping a greater number of cattle than
farmers can properly feed, which are kept, he says,
in a half-starved condition, either in the yards or
lanes in the winter, and turned out in the fields in
the spring, and on the rough pastures or commons
in the summer. And in his other prize essay on
Fat and Muscle, he says, " The object of the far-
mer, whose purpose is profit, will be to force his
stock on, during the period of their growth, by
such kind of food as will produce tiie largest quan-
tity of muscle at the least expense." I perfectly
agree in this, for we should remember that we are
not only losing the time during which the animal
is at a standstill, but by not allowing sufficient sus-
tenance we are also checking their growth and in-
juring the constitution, in support of which he
would make another quotation from the same essay.
" There should be no privation in the rearing and

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINJ

feeding of cattle; for those that are stuffed and
starved by turns are sure to prove unprofitable to
the feeder; and there is no more certain rule in the
rearing of young stock than this, that those that
suffer a deprivation either in quantity or quality of
food, never become perfectly developed, either in
bulk or proportions." Mr. Trethewy then explained
to the club the method he had adopted in rearing
his young stock. They should not be over-fed or
delicately reared ; a judicious middle course should
be pursued, providing everything necessary for the
growing wants of the young animal; they should
not be neglected and kept in a starving state, nor
should the}' be pampered, and become v/eak and
sickly from too tender treatment. The practice of
giving yoimg stock linseed cake or other artificial
foods, in addition to straw and roots, is extending
throughout the country, Mr. Clarke, in his prize
essay on the Farming of Lincolnshire, says "The
practice of giving 2lbs. or 3lbs, of hnseed cake
daily to the young cattle, and those in the straw-
yard, has much extended itself of late years." Mr.
Trethewy said he had pursued this system for some
time, and could speak confidently of its advantages ;
he would advise those who were sceptical on the
point to try the system, and they v/ould soon find
whether it was profitable. Mr. Trethewy next spoke
on the subject of sheep rearing, premising that much
that had been stated respecting cattle was applica-
ble to sheep. He was of opinion that the improve-
ment in the general management of our flocks has
progressed more rapidly than in that of our herds,
in most parts of the county, and the breed of sheep
has been throughout much improved. The great
increase in the growth of rape, for which a large
portion of our soils are well adapted, has given a
great stimulus to the sheep farmer, providing as
it does some of the best food for these animals.
Eut though we may congratulate ourselves, he said,
on the advances we have made in improving our
breed of sheep, and in their general treatment, j^et
even now we too frequently observe many wretched
poverty-stricken animals that have fared hard, and
been almost brought to the starving point during
the winter season. There was another point to
which he would direct attention. After the shepherd
has spent many long and tedious nights with the
ewes, and his efforts have been successful in obtain-
ing a good increase of lambs, how often do they
find that in the months of August and September,
ten, fifteen, and even twenty per cent, of the flock
are carried off by the scour, occasioned either by
scarcity of food or mismanagement. But keep the
young sheep well, and bestow on them proper atten-
tion, and they will not suffer much from this dis-
ease. Mr. Trethewy also strongly recommended
oil cake to be given to sheep. On the subject of

pig rearing, he said, pigs, beyond all other young
stock, should be well kept ; they should never lose
the fat or condition they receive from the mother,
which is easily kept up by proper food. He then
remarked incidentally that a neighbour of his, Mr.
Northey, of Grampound, had bred and fattened
twelve pigs of one litter, which averaged fifteen
score each at eight months old. They were a cross
between the Berkshire and the Neapolitan. ■ And
now (said Mr. Trethewy) a word on horses ; but
here I must act with caution, because the farmer
or breeder is not the only one whose opinion is to
be consulted. Every Englishman, whatever his
calling may be, considers he is a judge of horse-
flesh. Many persons think it to be a matter of no
great moment how a colt is kept ; let him rub on
roughly for the first year or two, and he will come
all right when he gets better food. But there is no
greater mistake than this ; it is now well under-
stood by all those who have had any experience in
the matter, that the better a colt is kept, the more
likely he is to remunerate the breeder. Mr. Tre-
thewy then made some interesting statements on the
fattening of stock, quoting Mv. Hilljard, Mr.
Morton, and others. The former, he said, was of
opinion that beasts should increase when tied up
64lbs. in the first month, 80lbs. in the second, and
48lbs. the last fortnight; that is, 192lbs. in the ten
weeks. Mr. Spooner, in his prize essay on Root
Crops, in the Bath Journal, says : — "It is stated
by Mr. J. C. Morton, that it requires 150lbs. of
turnips to produce lib. of beef or mutton, which
being reckoned at Gd. per lb., gives about £8 5s.
as the feeding value of twenty tons." Messrs.
Davey and Webb King, in the same journal, have
given some useful experiments on fattening sheep
and cattle. Mr. Fowler, of Dartmoor, says his
feeding hogs consume 20lbs. to 30lbs. of Swedes
each per day, v/ith half-a-pound of oil cake, and
2lbs, or 3lbs. of clover hay. Mr. Clark, in his
prize essay on the Farming of Lincolnshire, states
— " Where cattle are not bred, it is customary to
buy in yearlings or two years old in November,
and feed them loose in courts or yards, giving them
from 2lbs. to 4lbs. of cake each per day. If older
stock are purchased, they have 4lbs. to 8lbs. of
cake daily." Mr. Trethewy concluded his interest-
ing subject with a quotation from a writer in the
Mark Lane Express of March 6th, " On extremes
in farniing," who having given an example of a
man that much improved his estate by converting
corn and cake into manure, then takes the opposite
side of the question, and says " a straw-yard far-
mer will soon take the mettle out of a highly culti-
vated farm. When I say ' a straw-yard farmer,' I
mean a man whose cattle consume the principal
part of his straw^ without cake or corn. If cattle

THE FARMER^S MAGAZINE.

eat straw alone, the dung is straw, and the manure
is straw, the cattle are straw, the farm is straw, and
the farmer is straw, and they are straw altogether."
(Laughter.)

The Chairman (Mr. Tresawna) having invited
discussion,

Mr. Karkeek asked if Mr. Trethewy Vv'ould
give them some further details respecting his sys-
tem of rearing calves (alluded to in the lecture), and
of managing the j^earlings during the winter and
spring.

Mr. Trethewy said, if the calves are not allowed
to suck the cows, they have raw milk, or milk from
the cow, given them for the first month or six weeks,
after which it is mixed with skim milk ; and they
have also some oil cake, or other food, to keep them
in good condition till they go from the bowl. They
should be kept with the bowl from three to four
months ; that, however, depends on how the far-
mer is situated with regard to his dairy. If milk
is scarce, linseed boiled, or linseed cake, will be of
great assistance, and they will go from the milk
very quickly. There is no necessity forgiving them
milk ten weeks or three months ; he had seen very
good calves go off at less age. As to the yearlings,
they should be kept well, otherwise they could not
be brought to perfection, or fattened at two years
old. The calves should be kept in a progressive
state, and not allowed to retrograde when they go
from the bowl. That, however, was to be seen on
very many farms in the county. They might be
kept in a progressing state in the way he had stated.
In most of the eastern counties the same course is
pursued, where the pastures are not sufficient, or
where there are a great many other stock on the
pastures. They give them linseed or linseed cake,
or oatmeal ; or other substances may be given. In
some places Indian corn, ground, is given, and is
very nutritions for the young stock. Bean meal is
useful, particularly where much green food is given,
especially turnips and mangel wurzel, which make
the animals laxative ; bean meal is also good when
rape is used for feeding.

Mr. Kendall said, from his experience, the
calves ought to suck at least two months ; or if
three months, it would be better ; and he had always
found that the calves do much better on the cow
than when reared by hand.

Mr. Trethewy said that might answer very well
when calves are bred on a large scale ; but many
small farmers in this county could not afford to let
the calves continue to suck so long, and therefore
might help them forward with artificial food.

Mr. Kendall would, however, let as many as
could suck the mothers ; a good cow would rear
two calves, and a heifer one. He had reared a great
number of bullocks in the last two or three years,

as was well known in that neighbourhood, and he
did not recollect having lost a single c&lf. One was
obliged to be killed, from one to two ytars old, from
injury.

Mr. Trethewy observed that the writers of
various reports on farming stated that by keeping
the cattle in a good condition, you were the most
likely to prevent the " quarter-evil."

In reply to Mr. James Davis, Mr. Trethewy
said he thought the stomach of a calf would not take
linseed at first ; the milk of the cow was necessary
as food for some time. The linseed should be boiled,
and given as gruel.

Mr. Karkeek believed it was recommended to
mix half milk a'ld half gruel at first.

Mr, Trethewy understood treacle or sugar
mixed with it had a good effect ; but he had never
tried it.

Mr. Karkeek said, the object of mixing treacle
or sugar was to supply fatty matter. Milk contains
both the muscle and fat-forming principles — the
cheesy as well as the fatty matters. When the raw
milk given to the calf is replaced by scald milk,
they should begin to give linseed or gruel of some
sort, accompanied with treacle or sugar. The lin-
seed would supply the muscle-forming principles,
and the treacle or sugar the fatty matters. He
might also allude to the manner in which Mr. Tre-
thewy and Mr. Kendall kept their young stock, to
which he believed they were indebted for preserv-
ing them in such perfect health. They kept them
on what was called the " hammel" system, in small
yards with comfortable sheds attached, which was
much to be preferred to tying them up in close
stalls during the winter months. However they
might ventilate such stalls, they could not keep the
cattle so healthy as in the yards with small sheds
attached. When the weather is dry, you hardly
find one in the sheds, but when it rains they go in.

Mr. Kendall spoke strongly in favour of the
same system, and said if one lot were tied up during
the winter, and another lot kept in the yards, not
having so many turnips as those in the houses,
yet when they were both turned to the field in May
month, those that had been kept in the yards would
thrive more in one month than the others would in
two.

Mr. Trethewy said his object in the present
lecture was to show the evil of what they so fre-
quently see practised, the keeping young cattle in
a starved condition. They are very well kept by
some people up to a certain point ; and then they
are left to shift for themselves, and to "runj" and
fine exercise they get ! They lose by degrees the
flesh previously put upon them, and go on for some
months till they can be conveniently kept better.
Thev are at length taken in and kept well, but it

C 2

■20

THK FARMER^S MAGAZINE.

then takes two or three months' feeding to get
them to the condition from which they had gone
back. What he wished to impress was, that they
should always keep their young cattle in a progres-
sive state.

Mr. Kendall agreed with that remark, and
added that when young stock were put into the
house in autumn, and tied up, they were often then
of more value than they were in the following
spring ; whereas if they were kept in yards, and
had a small quantity of turnips two or three times
a day, and as much straw as they could eat, they
would afterwards go out to grass, and in two months
would be fat. There were perhaps 20 per cent, of
sheep carrried off by the scour ; and he believed
that was owing to badness of keep.

Mr. TRETHEwr said it was a prevaiUng notion
some years ago, that you must not keep your hog
sheep well at a certain season — that they must be
kept back at that time. But he could speak from
experience, that if you keep them well throughout,
you may avoid the scour altogether. For upwards
of thirty years he had never lost a sheep by the
scour, which was more than many could say.

Mr. Karkeek had seen some fine steers brought
into Truro, belonging to Mr. Doble, and asked what
was his course of management.

Mr. Doble said he reared some calves on the
cows, and some by hand, chiefly on scald milk.
Those reared on the cows rather go back when
taken away ; and the others, after some time on
grass, get up with them. In rearing by hand, he
gave the calves oil cake when they were about a
month or six weeks old, and by that means kept
them in good condition. When they were turned
to grass, he had linhays in the fields, where they
go in and out as they please. In the second winter
they were kept in the yard ; in the third year they
were fat. Sometimes he gave them oil cake, and
sometimes not ; he sold two cross-bred steers the
other day, under three years old, for £49, that had
nothing but hay, straw, and turnips. He scarcely
ever lost a calf, and did not see that any other per-
son's plan answered better than his ; with the
scald milk they sometimes mixed wheaten or oaten
flour.

The Chairman asked how much oil cake Mr.
Doble gave his calves per day. Mr. Doble replied
from lib. to 2lbs. He also said he gave them milk
till they vv^ere from three to four months old, and
they had then from 2lbs. to 3lbs. of oilcake per
day; 2lbs. was about the average. This point occa-
sioned some discussion. Mr. James, of Merthor,
thought it was too expensive ; 3lbs. of oil cake a
day would cost about 4d., and come to about £6 a
year. Mr. Karkeek said Mr. James had forgotten
to estimate the increased value of the manure, from

feeding with oil cake. Mr. Kendall said that in-
creased value was estimated by many farmers at
one half, therefore Mr. James's £6 must be reduced
to £3. Mr. William Trethewy thought Mr. James
must have misunderstood Mr. Doble. Supposing
the calves had even so much as 4lbs, of oil cake a
day, it would not be for more than three or four
months, and amount to 4 cwt., which at 12s. per
cwt. (Ss. or 9s. was about the average) would only
come to £1 12s, It was only given, he understood,
for about three months, and 2lbs. a day was then
the average. Mr. Doble said, if acalfv/ere born in
the fall of the year, he gave oil cake during the
whole winter ; but 2lbs. a day would keep them in
very good order. Mr. James agreed with Mr.
Karkeek that they had a great portion of the ex-
pense of oil cake back again, in the increased rich-
ness of the manure. Mr. Kendall said, if the
Russian Czar did not soon give in, he believed they
must grow their own linseed.

Mr. Henry Doble, on being asked his method
of rearing, said he had never used oilcake or corn.
He gave the calves raw milk till they were two or
three months old, and then scald milk till they were
from four to five or six months old ; he gave them
also turnips and hay. He had reared some good
ones, but still had been rather unfortunate in losing
stock. He should be glad if Mr. Karkeek could
tell them what would stop the attacks of the
" quarter-evil."

Mr. Karkeek was of opinion that the "felon"
in young cattle at the outset is a febrile condition,
induced from sudden excess of food at a period
when the tone of the vital principle is unequal to
the work. During the early period of life, there
is a great quantity of blood produced for the pur-
poses of growth, and if it is properly used up in
the system, there is little danger of the "felon." The
great point then in the rearing of calves is to take
care that the vital powers are predominant, which
condition is only obtained by a proper supply of
food, proper temperature, and proper exercise. If
you let an animal be low in condition, and then
force him on greatly by good keep, you are likely
to produce the "felon." Mr. H. Doble said cattle
were sometimes lost by that disease when they were
a year old, and in a thriving way. Mr. Karkeek
said they were still not in a strong condition. The
object should be to strengthen the vital system of
the animal when young as much as possible ; their
digestive organs and system generally will then be
able to withstand the influences from the sudden
change of food. Where there was disease of that
sort on a farm, he would put all of them in the
poorest land, and let them work for their living,
though it was true that could not be done in
winter.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

Mr. H. DoBLE said he had some cross-brads of
Devons and short-horns, of which he approved,
and would recommend farmers to cross their cattle
more, as he thought it would strengthen their con-
stitutions.

Mr. Trethewy observed that prizes had been
offered for essays by the Bath and West of Eng-
land Agricultural Journal, " On the most economi-
cal and profitable method of growing and consum-
ing root crops," and that these three contended,
Mr. Spooner of Southampton, Mr. Davy of South-
molton, and Mr. Webb King, near Bridgewater,
He remarked that all three of the competitors par-
ticularly recommended a mixture of food, and that
less turnips should be given to the cattle. Mr.
Webb King was with him (Mr. Trethewy) some
time ago, and looking at some farms, he considered
that we all use too many turnips ; if other sorts of
food were given with the turnips, he thought more
cattle might be kept, and they would thrive better.
The white turnips have a tendency to scour, but the
Swede turnips not so much. The mangels have
also very much of that tendency ; but they are
very fattening. There should be a mixture of oil
cake, corn, hay, cut chaff, or something of the
kind, more than is generally given, and the same
with sheep.

In answer to another question, Mr. Trethewy said
the use of oil cake had now become general in many
counties ; even where there were the best pastures;

they supply the cattle with it. They break it and
sift it, drop the knobs down for the cattle, and the
fine for the sheep. The larger number of cattle
that was in this way enabled to be kept on the land,
they say pays amply for the oil cake, to say nothing
of the improvement of the manure in the dropjjings
on the land.

Some remarks were also made on the use of salt
in feeding ; but the opinion seemed to be that it
was not required in this county, which has so
much sea-cast. It was recommended by Mr. Tre-
thewy to be mixed with hay, when indifferently
saved, Mr. Kendall stated an experiment he made
to prove the value of salt applied to grass land, and
it turned out a failure. Mr. J. Brewer introduced
the subject of giving rape to young sheep. Mr.
Kendall had found rape caused the wool to fall off.
Mr. Trethewy said the mischief might be in some
degree prevented by mixing the rape with hay, cut
chaff, oil cake, or some dry food. Mr. W. Tre-
thewy thought that on poor land sheep might be
kept on rape; Mr. Stephens, of Golden, had done
so on the downs. Mr. Brewer said he had kept
bullocks on rape more than two months, and they
did very well.

The proceedings were concluded by a vote of
thanks to Mr. Trethewy for his able and interesting
lecture, and to Mr, Tresawna for presiding over the
meetinfy.

CULTIVATION OF FLAX IN THE UNITED KINGDOM.

In consequence of the war with Russia, from
which the principal portion of our supply of hemp
and flax is drawn, the energetic people of the United
States are turning their attention to the growth of
hemp. That of flax will, without doubt, be taken
up with equal alacrity, both there and in British
America.

With our usual deliberate and conservative mode
of proceeding, and our veneration for things as
they are, we shall probably follow, in this matter,
the same course of action which has characterised
the education question, the sanitary question, and
the agricultural appHcation of the refuse of towns.
We shall discuss it for the next twenty years, shall
jn-oclaim the attempt to be visionary, theoretical,
hopeless ; and shall only set ourselves at work in
earnest to grow a larger breadth of flax by the time
peace shall be proclaimed, and the Americans
shall be in possession of the void which Russia has
left in our market.

Even before the war commenced, there was a
desire on the part both of the agricultural interest

and those engaged in the linen manufacture, that
the supply of home-grown flax should be increased,
but there the matter has hitherto ended. In the
meantime, our flax-spinning machines have conti-
nued, year by year, to devour more foreign fibre.
Our importation of flax, for the ten years ending
1851, amounted to 70,000 tons annually. In the
three years 1840, 1841, 1842, the average annual
importation was 62,500 tons. For the three years
1S48, 1849, 1850, it had increased to 83,800 tons.
The difference may be considered equal to the pro-
duce of 84,000 acres. The number of spindles
employed in the United Kingdom in spinning flax
amounted, in 1851, to 1,068,000; of which Ireland
had 500,000, Scotland 303,000, and England
265,000.

The greatest number of spindles out of Britain is
in France, which has 350,000 ; but on the continent,
in general a vast amount of flax continues to be
spun by hand. Belgium has 100,000 spindles, Hol-
land only 6,000, Russia 50,000, Austria 30,000, the
States of the Zollverein 80,000, Switzerland

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

12,000, and the United States of America
15,000.

America is our best customer for linen. Thirty-
nine millions of people in the States consurce an-
nually more than two yards each to the value of Is.
3|d. sterhng, Canada takes to the value of Is. 63d.
per head ; while Europe, with a population of 228
millions, takes only l-38th of a yard each. The dif-
ference between the demand from the New World
and the Old arises from two causes — the first is the
pertinacity with which high duties on imported
linen are maintained in most of the countries of
Europe ; the second is the preference for cotton
garments which prevails in Asia and Africa.

Besides the extensive and continually increasing
quantities of flax fibre which we receive from other
countries, we import annually 650,000 quarters of
linseed and 70,000 tons of oilcake. As one of the
first commercial effects of the war, our flax mills
are running short time for want of flax ; and in
addition to the loss which our farmers will sustain
from a diminished supply and an increased price of
guano, they will soon suffer from a deficiency of
oilcake. These difficulties must be overcome by
an increased growth of flax, and the consumption
by cattle on the land of the linseed grown ujion it.
The flax culture, as practised before the revolu-
tion which spinning machinery effected in the hnen
trade, was a domestic manufacture. The grower
prepared the fibre for market. In many cases he
spun it and wove it at home. In Ireland, the linen
trade combined with other causes to produce that
excessive subdivision of land which has been the
bane of that country. The Irish farmer, in the
most flourishing districts, was merely a weaver,
holding land enough to raise his own food and raw
material. The linen trade, thus conducted, has
deserted those districts, and left them burthened
with the subdivided farms and a pauper tenantry,
till the potato rot, and the emigration which has fol-
lowed in its train, produced another social revolu-
tion.

The great obstacle to the growth of flax in Eng-
land is the want of an intermediate interest to buv
the straw from the grower, and to prepare the fibre
for the spinner. Conducted on the old system, it
is only adapted to small occupations, like those of
Belgium and Ireland. Even in Ireland, the want
of this intermediate interest is strongly felt, and
strenuous exertions are being made to supply it.
New processes of preparing the fibre are moreover
being introduced, which cannot be carried on upon
the farm, but require separate establishments, and
which appear likely to supersede the old method of
steeping, just as the steam-driven spindles and
powerlooms have superseded the spinning wheel
and handloom.

Two years ago the most promising of these new
processes appeared to be that of Schenck, which
consisted in steeping the flax in hot water, and thus
eflfected in from 72 to 9O hours what under the old
sjrstem occupied from two to three weeks. In 1852,
20 retteries on this system were established in Ire-
land, besides several in England.

Since then two other processes have been pa-
tented, which as far as trials on a small scale have
gone, appear to be superior to Schenck's, both as
regards the saving of time and expense. One of
these is by Watts. It consists in steaming the
straw, instead of steeping. The other method is
Buchanan's, who operates by means of repeated
immersions (about 10) in hot water, kept by a very
ingenious contrivance from exceeding a certain
temperature. The process is conducted by means of
cheap and simple machinery, by which labour is
saved, the risk of loss from carelessness avoided,
and the time required for the preparation of the
fibre is reduced to 12 hours. The system is now
being tested on a commercial scale in Scotland.

It has been well observed that the chief impedi-
ment to the growth of flax consists in the question
" Who is to begin ?" The farmer does not grow
flax for want of the rettery, and the rettery is not
established for want of the flax. Another difficulty
arises out of the continued improvements which
are going on in the processes for preparing the fibre,
and the perplexity which this occasions among those
who are disposed to embark in the undertaking, as
to which they shall adopt. The scarcity of flax, how-
ever, which the war is prod ucing, will probably lead to
a cutting of, the knot. The manufacturers, in their
eagerness to obtain a supply, will be inclined to
make a little dash in establishing retteries.

They will commence with Schenck's, as that
which has been the most tested ; and if they find
that either of the new processes prove better, they
will, with the usual manufacturing enterprise, re-
model their establishments and adopt the new pro-
cesses without delay and regardless of cost.

The manufacturers are the parties who should
make the first move, by establishing retteries and
offering a liberal price to the farmers for their straw.
The districts best suited to the experiment are those
in which the cultivation of flax formerly flourished,
and in which the agricultural population are not
wholly strangers to its management.

Besides the impediments to the extensive culti-
vation of flax in the United Kingdom, to which we
have already adverted as arising out of the absence
of an intermediate interest between the grower and
the spinner, there is another, occasioned by a tra-
ditionary prejudice that flax is an exhausting crop.

This error, which has been handed down, v/ith-
out investigation, from the times of Virgil and the

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

Georgics, has long etitreiiclied itself among the
musty leases and precedents of the lawyer class of
land-agents; and we have of late witnessed the
anomaly that, during a period of low prices, land-
lords, in after-dinner lectures at agricultural
meetings, in forgetfulncss of this, were recom-
mending their tenants to cultivate flax as a sub-
stitute for cheap v.'heat, while the leases under
v/hich those tenants held their farms prohibited the
growth of flax, hemp, weld, and woad. Science
and practice, amidst all their jarrings and jealousies,
are now agreed in repudiating this vulgar error.
The chemist led the way by analyzing the plant,
and showing that the fibre, which is all that need
be removed from the land, contains scarcely any
matter but what it has derived from the atmos-
phere, and that the inorganic constituents, which
are furnished by the soil, reside in the seed, the
woody refuse, and the steep water, all of which
may be returned to the land.

In confirmation of these views, practical men
who have grown flax for many years, consuming
the seed as cattle food instead of purchased oilcake,
declare that they find flax anything but an im-
poverishing crop. The late Mr. Milburn, than whom
we knew no higher practical authority, urged this
point at a meetinglately held in Leeds, att^ie instance
of the Leeds and Yorkshire Flax Society, for the
purpose of giving explanations to landlords,
farmers, manufacturers, and others interested in
the growth of flax, as to the present prospects of
demand and remuneration, and the best methods
of growing flax. At this meeting, a report of which
lately appeared in our columns, Mr. Milburn de-
clared the opinion to be gaining ground among all
who understand farming operations, that the con-
sumption of the seed by stock upon the farm forms
one of the best modes for the improvement of
strong land. As an example, he appealed to the
practice of Mr. Button, of Sowber Hill, who grows
flax for the sake of the linseed as cattle food ; and
he expatiated on the high condition of the cattle
and horses on this farm — for Mr. Hutton's horses
share the linseed with the other live stock — and
also on the state of cultivation of the land, which
he declared to be perfectly astonishing, and
attriljutable chiefly to the valuable manure obtained
from the flax-seed. He was satisfied, he said, that
if the farmer who grew flax fed his cattle with the
cooked seed, he would find it one of the cheapest
and most effective feeding agents procurable, and
that landowners would not object to the cultivation
of flax on this system. It was the sale of seed, as
well as straw, which was objected to. The evidence
of two flax-growers, of twenty and forty years'
experience respectively, was to the same effect.
As to the manufacturers, they held out at this

meeting every temptation to the growth of flax,
which the prospect of high prices could afford.
Mr. Wilkinson, who was in the chair, insisted on
the increasing demand in England, and declared
that even before the war commenced, it had become
evident to him and most other flax-spinners, that
the price of their raw material, particularly of the
kind which might be grown in England, would
range high. He did not think the price had been
much increased by the war ; it would be high even
if peace were declared to-morrow; the demand
would continue such that prices would be kept
remunerative, and it would be the interest of every
farmer to grow as much flax as he could. There
were difficulties, he admitted, from the want of
knowledge among the farmers, as to the best mode
of cultivation, and the want of a market for the crop
in the straw. To remove these difficulties, various
plans were, he said, in contemplation; and he
should not be surprised to see manufacturers in a
position to pay a really good price for the straw.
Of course, the nearer the straw was to the market
the greater the price it would command ; but he
was of opinion that the straw would be found to
sell at a good price, even if carried fifty or sixty
miles. At that distance from Leeds, he believed
straw would be worth £4 to £5 per ton, upon the
spot. The climate of England, and Ireland too, he
considered more favourable to the growth of flax
than that of Russia. The flax of Russia was the
weakest in the world— that of England the strongest.
The flax of England was worth 60 or 70 per cent,
more than that of Russia ; while the grain of Russia
was worth nearly as much as that of England.

This is all very encouraging ; but it is evident
that the spinners are firing guns of distress, in
anticipation of a short supply ; and it may be that
when the farmers have embarked largely in the
flax culture, the bright side of the picture may be
reversed ; they may then find that the market is
glutted, and that the spinners are acting upon the
commercial principle of buying where they can buy
at the lowest rate. When engaged in some in-
quiries on the subject of flax a year or two ago, we
found £2 10s. a ton talked of as the average price
for flax in the straw ; and the £4 and £5 a ton, now
in posse, may be found in practice to melt down to
£2 10s. again. If, therefore, the manufacturers
wish to promote the cultivation of flax at home,
they must give hostages to the farmers, by coming
forward with the capital to establish retteries, and
thus open a market for the flax-straw at the farmers'
own doors — that is, within such a distance as that
which he carries his other produce to market.
Farmers will have no faith in retteries fifty or sixty
miles off. On the other hand, the manufacturers
will not set up establishments for the preparation

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

of the fibre, except with a reasonable prospect that
they may depend upon a supply of straw. The
districts in which they are most likely to be suc-
cessfully established are those parts of Great
Britain and Ireland in which the linen trade
flourished under its old phase, when the fibre was
prepared, and even spun and woven, by the grower,
but in which the cultivation has ceased, or at any
rate diminished, since the apphcation of machinery
to the spinninof and weaving of flax as well as
cotton. In such districts the farmers and the
labourers are not wholly strangers to the flax cul-
ture, and the peculiar manipulation which it re-
quires ; and there it will again take root and flourish
under the new system, whenever a market shall be
opened for the flax crop as soon as it is pulled.
We know of landowners possessing extensive
estates in such districts, who are prepared to give
every encouragement by providing sites for retteries
on moderate terms, to be conducted either on
Schenck's system, or that of Watts or Buchanan,
leaving the choice to the manufacturers themselves,
and who will also recommend to their tenantry the
revival of the culture. All they ask is that the flax
spinners, who may be reasonably supposed to
abound more in money than either farmers or land-
owners, shall give pledges of the sincerity of their
belief in remunerating prices, by embarking their
own capital in the establishments necessary to
effect that division of labour, the want of which is
admitted on all hands to be one great obstacle to
the home growth of flax.

In those districts where the flax culture has yet
to be introduced for the first time, it will be neces-
sary for those who desire to become less dependent
on the foreign supply of raw material, to teach the
farmers the cultivation. This might be done in
the way practised by Mr. Marshall, when he estab-
lished a rettery on Schenck's system at Patrington,
by hiring land of the farmer ready prepared for
sowing, the manufacturer taking upon himself the
processes of sowing, weeding, and harvesting.

The flax spinners must remember that so long as
the present high price of wheat prevails, or even
a lower price than the present, but high compared
with that to which farmers have for some years
been accustomed, there will be little inducement to
quit the beaten track for the purpose of raising a
crop, to the management of which they are strangers.
They must be tempted into it by liberal oiFers, and
they must be convinced that the flax spinners are
in earnest, by their coming forward to provide local
establishment, for the preparation of the fibre.

It has been well observed, that the real difficulty
in the culture of flax lies in the question, who is to
begin ? The farmers do not grow it, because they
have no market for it in the straw; and there are no
establishments formed for preparing the fibre, be-
cause the farmers do not grow flax. The manu-
facturers are now the most interested in an extension
of the supply of their raw material, and they are
clearly the parties who should begin by coming
forward to establish retteries wherever the farmers
are willing to grow the flax.

THE BATH AND WEST OF ENGLAND AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY.

MEETING AT BATH.

" I well recollect attending, four years ago, what
I considered would in all probability be the last
meeting of this society — when it was waning to its
least possible furrow; when the animals exhibited
had dwindled down to about thirty-four ; when
your morning meeting was attended by some
thirty persons, and your table graced by not more
than sixteen or eighteen." So said Mr. Miles, the
president for the year of the West of England So-
ciety, on Thursday, June 8, when comparing what
this association has been, with what it is. Signal,
indeed, has been the success which has attended its
resuscitation. Year after year now, for the three
at least during which the experiment has been
tried, have the gatherings continued to increase in
importance and attraction. If Taunton was a good
opening, Plymouth gave yet more promise ; \yhile

Bath furnishes a result still further in the ascend-
ant. It is long since the ancient city has known
such a week : few can recollect it so thoroughly
filled, and none, we believe, the time when its
visitors came to pay their tribute to a better object.
Extending the influence of its action over a dis-
trict almost entirely devoted to the pursuits of
agriculture, the wonder is not so much that such a
Society as this should prosper, but rather that it
should ever have been so close on the verge of
extinction. It is only, however, within a compa-
ratively recent period that we have been taught
how to ensure something like becoming support to
an agricultural gathering. It is not, either, the
management alone who have gradually shown
themselves more alive to the manner in which this
is to be accomplished. Those they have had to

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

address have proportionately increased in their ap-
preciation of the aim attempted, and thus more
readily and generally afforded those two grand
items in the arrangements — their assistance and
their presence. It is not too much to say that the
Royal Agricultural Society of England led the way
here ; and that, however earnestly other similar in-
stitutions may have previously struggled on, they
had little to boast of until they had such an
example to imitate,

"The Bath and West of England" is essentially
one of these. "Without, as we think, being likely
in any way to encroach upon the sphere of the
national society, it must be again recorded as pro-
ceeding almost entirely upon the same plan. Not
only its chief features, but many of its leading
authorities and members, are equally associated
with the working machinery of the other. The
president for the year, for example — Mr. Miles — is
just elected, and very deservedly, to the same dis-
tinguished position in the Agricultural Society of
England. Many other gentlemen, too, give
their services in the Council of either; while —
to their credit must it be spoken — the success-
ful exhibitors of the West of England Shows are,
not uncommonly, successful exhibitors all the
world over.

Dating, then, the career of the West Country
Society from the time of its judicious reconstruc-
tion, we find that it has only had one grand impe-
diment or opposition to contend against. Every-
thing but the weather was most encouraging. This,
on the other hand, had been indeed a damper. The
drooping, tearful welcome at Taunton smiled not
auspiciously on the opening day; the draggled
finery and washed-out smartness of Plymouth came
equally out of place with what had been intended.
It remained but with the parent city of the society
to make the triumph complete. It wanted but fine
weather to ensure the presence of countless visi-
tors ; and when the fine weather came, the visitors,
truly enough, came with it. Dependent only on this
proviso, the West will always have its Gala week, and
Bath acted quite up to its pristine fame for taste and
gaiety. A little more noisy, it may be, in its demon-
stration than its every-day denizens might be
accustomed to ; but no less earnest, if not quite so
staid, in the fashion of its pleasure-taking. Hearty
welcomes, inscribed in all varieties of colour, and
in verse sufhciently curious to show that many of
our Bath friends, like Audrey, might " thank the
gods they were not made poetical" — Triumphal
arches, bearing in their evergreen embrace highly-
ornamented scrolls of toast and sentiment, wishing
prosperity to everybody — all this, with the sun to
light it up by day, and a general illumination to
give it further glory by night, told the stranger of

the victory achieved in the cause "of " Agricul-
ture, Arts, Manufactures, and Com-
merce."

It is with the first of these that we have chiefly
to deal ; and cheerful is our testimony as to what
the West of England Society is now doing for agri-
culture. The show in every respect was still fur-
ther in advance. There were larger entries, both
in the implement and stock departments, than at
either of the previous meetings. This increase was
the more especially remarkable in the former of
these divisions, the exhibitors again coming
from distances far beyond the limits of the West —
as, for instance, Hornsby from Grantham, Howard
from Bedford, Busby from Yorkshire, Barrett,
Exall, and Andrews from Reading, Dean and Dray
from London, Coleman from Chelmsford, Tuxford
from Boston, Turner from Ipswich, Smith and
Ashby from Stamford, Crosskill from Beverley,
Burgess and Key from London, and Clayton and
Shuttleworth from Lincoln. With these celebrated
firms came many of more local repute ; and few, we
are glad to say, in any way disgraced by the strong
competition to which they were opposed. Here,
indeed, the trial was often quite as severe as it can
be in the meetings of the Royal Society of England ;
the manufacturers we have named taking equal
care, of course, to enter none but implements they
could rely on.

We heard of nothing particularly novel, the
chief interest appearing to centre in the trial ©f
the portable thrashing machines, in which the
Messrs. Hornsby obtained an award that should
be equally satisfactory to themselves and their cus-
tomers. We are assured the means for testing the
real worth of these machines was never before so
complete or thoroughly searching. Mr. Amos, the
consulting engineer, referred to this at the dinner,
and bore testimony to the admirable manner in
which the prize machine bore the scrutiny to which
he had subjected it. For excellence of workman-
ship, consumption of fuel, and general adaptation
to its purpose, it would seem to be equally com-
mendable. The reaping machine, on the other
hand, now so commonly an attraction in the trial
of implements, was but poorly represented.
Crosskill's " Bell," though expected, did not ap-
pear ; while neither of those at work was, we be-
lieve, admitted by their exhibitors to be yet per-
fected in its construction. Sharing the public
attention with many longer-established favourites,
we had the rival liquid manure drills of Messrs.
Chandler and Spooner, about the merits of which
there has of late been so much discussion, and
that both look now like obtaining that best of all
decisions — a fair and general trial.

It is, however, in the cattle-show that we come

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

to recognize more easily the character of a West of
England meeting; and it is here, in this character,
that the Society so greatly excels. We are almost
afraid, indeed, that it includes in the ranks of its
exhibitors names, if anything, a little too renowned
for the common strength of a comparatively local
display. This was rather more apparent than usual
at the present meeting. In the Devon classes, for
instance, Somerset last year made a very good
stand, even so far down as Plymouth. They now
make a much worse fight of it nearer home ; and,
as will be seen, it is George Turner first and
George Turner second — with here and there just a
seasoning of a Quartley or a Davy— over and oveJ
again. Certainly these gentlemen won their
honours fairly enough; for seldom has thera
been a more excellent entry of this kind of cat-
tle. They were deservedly the great attraction of
the yard; and one bull, the two-year-old prize of
Mr. Turner's, was a perfect specimen of the pure
thorough-bred Devon, There were others in both
bull and cow classes well v/orthy to stand com-
parison with him — the weakest point in a very
strong shov/ being the pairs of yearling heifers.
At Plymouth, on the other hand, they were amongst
the best.

What Mr. Turner is with the Devons, Mr. Strat-
tou is with the Shorthorns — first and first, not only
at the West of England gatherings, but at most
of the great meetings in the kingdom. Our only
surprise is that in the large sums we hear now
so frequently given for this fashionable breed
of cattle, not to find this gentleman's name. It
must be surely his own fault that it is not so. It
will be remarked that he again carried everything
before him at Bath. His first and second prize
cows, standing side by side, must surely take "a
deal of beating" in any company. For form,
quality, and colour, they were pronounced alike
perfection ; and it was amusing to watch those
who could scarcely appreciate the neat but petite
proportions of the Devon, turn to the more fully-
developed beauties of these really beautiful animals.
Mr. Stratton's pair of yearling heifers were equally
well matched, and as well prepared to stand the
test of those " points " by which this breed is
judged. We have seen better bulls; but taken
generally, the Bath show of shorthorns, like the
Devons, was a fine treat to the breeder, whichever
way his prejudices might lean, or his early taste
have been directed.

The few Herefords sent said little for the sort,
and vv'e should be loath to judge the breed by those
we saw here. We do not profess to understand
why this variety of beast should not be better
represented.

We may pass over the horse classes with as little

comment, and that little hardly more favourable.
The first prize in cart-stallions was a very moderate-
looking horse ; and of the two we certainly pre-
ferred the Suffolk, which took the second, to him.
Mr. Bailey's brood mare was far better — in fact,
the pick of what there was, we had here. The pre-
mium for the thorough-bred stallions, " suited for
country purposes," brought just one entry! And
to this one the j)rize was awarded — a pretty little,
half- Arab, park hack looking thing, that must have
wofully puzzled the judges when they distin-
guished him on account of his fitness for " country
purposes." In a West of England meeting, we
should much like to have seen a class of Exmoor
ponies. They would have been just in place at such a
shov/. There was one, very clever and very hand-
soffiC; and judging by him, we should have had
more of the sort.

Of sheep, perhaps the best, as a lot, were the
Hampshire Downs — the worst certainly the South-
downs. We seldom saw a more ragged lot than
the latter; and great indeed must have been the
joy of the winners over the forlorn hopes they sent
in. The Dorsets, as is usual at these meetings,-
were generally good, though not up to the
excellence of Plymouth. The long-v/ools, Lei-
cesters, and Cotswolds, on the contrary, ranged
from good and bad to indifferent. There appeared
moreover to be considerable difficulty in classing
them, and some of the best (belonging to Lord de
Mawley) were excluded by mistake from where
they should have been, and specially commended
afterwards. What is a long-wooUed sheep which
is "not qualified to compete as a Leicester or a
Cotswold ?" Is he a cross between the two ? Both
the management and the public seemed somewhat
l)uzzled over the distinction.

Berkshire for large, Leicester for a medium, and
Essex for small, make up a very good show of pigs —
the improved Essex coming in great numbers from
the county of Devon, where the leading agriculturists
are more and more taking to the sort. The only
exception would seem to be the Rev. Mr. James,
who, in a larger class, carried off a prize for a boar
of " the old Lancashire" bi-eed — certainly the ugliest
and most unpromising-looking pig v/e ever remem.-
ber to have seen.

We do not know whether we are called on to
notice " the Grand Poultry Show in connection
with the Bath and West of England Agricultural
Society, but ivith a separate entrance and subscrip-
tion," If we are, it can only be to express, or rather,
repeat our dissent to the manner in which it is con-
ducted. Since what is termed "the poultry mania"
first broke out, we have visited every agricultural
meeting of importance in England and Ireland, and
we have but to say that the West of England is the

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

only one " with a separate entrance and subscrip-
tion." If the breeding of poultry is a matter of
importance to the farmer — and we believe when
treated by the rules of common-sense that it is —
by all means let him have every advantage of
progressing in this direction. Endeavour more and
more to associate it with his other pursuits, instead
of dividing it from him v/ith separate entrances
and subscriptions. At Plymouth, hundreds who
saw the cattle never saw the poultry; at Bath,
thousands who paid to the poultry never did for the
cattle. The poultry-show becomes accordingly a
more encouraging thing than ever. The mania at its
highest never drew such crowds as it did at Bath.
And this is the way it was made to work. The
poultry-show, after all, was but the anti-room to
the fancy-fair; and the fancy-fair, with its laudable
object and crowds of "beauty and fashion," was,
there is no denying it, the centre of all attraction. To
get to the fair you must first pay to the poultry-
show; and Yi'e saw hundreds on hundreds who
walked straight through from one door to the other,
without the slightest heed of the challenge offered
them by Chanticleer. Even in the terrible crush
of Wednesdaj', few would lose their trun to look at
him. As at present conducted we have no doubt
the poultry show is a most successful speculation ;
but at the same time we can in no way recognise it
as a legitimate way of aiding the object of an agri-
cultural association. It is our desire to give every
credit to so useful and so praiseworthy a Society as
the West of England ; at the same time, we shall
have no hesitation in pointing out a weak place ;
and this is one of them.

The dinner, which took place on the Thursday,
in the Assembly Rooms, though fairly attended,
did not reach the number expected. Few men
know better how to conduct the business of a
meeting of this character than Mr. Miles ; and
despite a terribly long-winded orator at starting,
who appeared to think it his duty to talk about
everything, the toast-list, under so able a president,
went well through to the end. We can but select
from those addresses more perlinent to the occa-
sion, or more especially devoted to the columns of
an Agricultural Journal. Amongst them we may
call especial attention to some very practical and
A'aluable remarks from Mr. Whitaker, in returning
thanks for himself and the other judges of stock.
We would wish to impress them upon all such of
our readers as may have to act in a similar capacity.
The judges here, however painful it might be,
really did their duty, as many a pen of artfully
shorn sheep, with the condemned note above them,
fully testified. It is speeches like these, and prac-
tical suggestions from such men as Mr. Whitaker,
that give a real interest and importance to these

after-dinner debates. We could wish to have seen
him more generally reported by our contemporaries.

JUDGES.

Devons and Long-woolled Sheep. — Mr. William B abb,
of Ashbiittle; Mr. Samuel Austey, of Minnabilly Farm,
Fowcy, Cornwall; Mr. John Pasamore, South Molten.

Shorthorns, Herefords, aad Horses. — Mr. Thomas
Wills, of Hampnett, near Ncrtbleach ; Mr. Samuel Bloxidge,
of Warwick ; Mr. George Pope, of Kingston Deverill, War-
minster.

Short-woollid Sheep and Pigs. — Mr. Rawlence, of
Heale, Woodford, near Salisbury; Mr. J. Whitaker, of
Bratton, near Westbury, Wilts; Mr. Edward Little, of
Sheldon, near Chippenham.

LIST OF PRIZES.
CATTLE.

DEVONS.

For the best bull, above two and not exceeding four years
old, £12, Mr. G. Turner, Barton, near Exeter ; second prize,
£5, Mr. T. Miller, of Castle Farm, Sherbourne.

For the best bull, not exceeding two years old, £12, Mr.
George Turner, of Barton, near Exeter; second prize, £5, Mr.
Jag. Qnartly, of Holland, near South Melton.

For the beat bull, not exceeding twelve months old, £5, Mr.
James Quartly, of Molland, near South Molton; second prize,
£3, Mr. John Tanner Davy, of Rose Asb, near South Molton.

For the best cow in calf, or in milk, £8, Mr. George Turner,
Barton, near Exeter; second prize, £4, Mr. Samuel Farthing,
Stowey-court, Bridgewaler.

For the best heifer, in milk or in calf, £8, Mr. J. Quartly,
of Mollaud, near South Molton ; second prize, £4, Mr. George
Turner, of Barton, near Exeter

For the best pair of heifers, £5, Mr. James Hole, of Kuowie
House, Dunster; second prize, £3, Mr. William Hole, of Han-
naford, near Barnstaple.

SHORTHORNS.

For the best bull, above two and not exceeding four years
old, £12, Mr. William Fowle, Market Lavington ; second
prize, £5, Mr. C. H. Abbott, of Long Ashton, near Bristol.

For the best bull, not exceeding two years old, £12, Mr. R.
Stratton, of Broad Hiuton, near Swindon ; second prize, £5,
Mr. W. Hewer, of Sevenhampton, near Highworth.

For the best bull, not exceeding twelve months old, £5, Mr.
R. Stratton, of Broad Hinton; second prize, £?, W. Miles,
Esq., M.P., of Leigh Court.

For the best cow in cilf, or in milk, £3, and second prize,
£4, Mr. R, Stratton, of Broad Hinton.

For the best heifer, in milk or in calf, £3, and second prize,
£4, Mr. R. Stratton.

For the best pair of heifers, not exceeding twelve months old,
£5, Mr. R. Stratton; second prize, £3, Mr. G. Sainsbury, of
the Priory, Corsham.

HEREFORD?, OR CATTLE OF ANY OTHER PURE BREED.

For the best bull, above two and not exceeding four yean
old, £12, Mr. John Feaver, ofV/ello.r; second prize, £5, Mr.
W. Melsom, of Norton Bavant, near Vi''arminster.

For the best bull, not exceeding two years old, £12, Mr.
Thomas Little, of Biddlestofle, near Chippenham.

For the best bull, not exceeding twelve months old, £5— no
entry.

For the best cow in calf, or in milk, £3, Mr. F. Craddock,
of Ly(,peat, near Eadstock.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

SHEEP.

LONG WOOLLED.

(Not qualified to compete as Leicester or Cotsiuohl.J

For the best yearling ram, 5/., and second ditto 31., Mr.
Thomas Kingdon, of Netherexe, near Brampford Spake,

Eor the best ram, not exceeding three years old, 51., Mr.
John Eadmore, of Thorverton; and second prize, 31., Mr.
Thomas Potter, of Thorverton.

For the best pen of five ewes, of the same flock, 5L, Mr.
Thos. Potter, of Thorverton.

For the best pen of five two-teeth ewes, 5Z., James Went-
worth BuUer, Esq., of the Downs, near Crediton.

LEICESTER AND COTSWOLD.

For the best yearling ram of the Leicestershire breed, 5?,
James Wenthouse BuUer, Esq., of the Downs, near Crediton ;
second prize, 31., Mr. Thomas Potter, of Thorverton.

For the best yearling ram of the Cotswold breed, 51., Mr.
Edmvind Ruck, of Castle Hill, near Cricklade ; second prize,
31., Lord de Mauley, Hatherop Castle, near Fairford, Glou-
cestershire.

SOUTIIDOWNS.

For the best yearling ram, 51., His Grace the Duke of Beau-
fort ; second prize, 31., Mr. John Moore, of Littlecot Farm,
Pewsey.

For the best ram, not exceeding three years old, 51., Mr.
John Moore, of Littlecot Farm, Pewsey; second prize, 31., His
Grace the Duke of Beaufort.

For the best pen of five ewes, of the same flock, 51., His
Grace the Duke of Beaufort, of Badminton ; second prize, 31.,
Richard King Meade King, Esq., of Walford House, near
Taunton.

For the best pen of five two-teeth ewes, 51., His Grace the
Duke of Beaufort,

DORSETS.

For the best yearling ram, 51., Mr. Thomas Danger, of
Huntstile, near Bridgwater; second prize, 31., Mr. George
Coombe, of Creech St. Michael, near Taunton.

For the best ram, not exceeding three years old, 5'., Mr.
Thomas Danger, of Huntstile, near Bridgwater ; second prize,
31., Mr. George Coombe, of Creech St. Michael, near Taunton.

For the best pen of five ewes, of the same flock, 5/., Mr.
George Coombe, of Creech St. Michael, near Taunton ; second
prize, 31., Mr. Thomas Danger, of Huntstile, near Bridgwater.

For the best pen of five two-teeth ewes, 51., Mr. George
Coombe, of Creech St. Michael, near Taunton ; second prize,
3/., Air. Thomas Danger, of Huntstile, near Bridgwater.
MOUNTAIN SHEEP.

For the best ram, not exceeding three years old, £i, and
second prize £2, Mr. JobnNurcombe, of Hopcott, near Minehead.

For the best pen of five ewes, of any age, £4, and second prize
£2, Mr. James Quartly, of Mollaud House, Southmoltou.
PIGS.

LARGE BREED.

For the best boar, not exceeding two years old, £4, Mr.
William Hewer, of Seveuhamiiton, near Highworth ; second
prize, £2, the Rev. Charles Thomas James, of Ermiagton, near
Ivybridge.

For the best breeding sow, £4, the Rev. Charles Thomas
James, of Ermington, near Ivybridge ; second prize, £2, Mr.
William James Sadler, of Beutham Purton, near Swindon,

For the best pen of three breeding sows, £2, and second
prize £1, Mr. Wm. Hewer, of Sevenhampton, near Highworth.

SMALL BREED.

For the best boar, not exceeding two years old, £4, Air. John
Partridge, of Nymett Rowland, near Creditiou ; second prize,
£2, Mr. William Northey, of Lake-farm,, LiftoUo

For the best breeding sow, £4, and second prize, £2, Mr.
William Northey, of Lake-farm, near Lifton, Devon.

For the best pen of three breeding sows, not exceeding eight
months old, £2, and second prize, £1, his Grace the Duke of
Beaufort.

HORSES.

For the best stallion, for agricultural purposes, £15, Mr. E.
Jefferys, of Hill Deverill, near Warminster ; second prize, £5,
Mr. W. Melsom, of Norton Bavant, near Warminster.

For the best mare in foal, or with a foal by her side, £10,
Mr. H. Bailey, of Woollaston Farm, Berkeley ; second prize,
£5, Mr. W. Fowle, of Market Lavington, near Devizes.

For the best two years old colt or filly, for agricultural pur-
poses, £10, Mr. Robert Hart, of Mark, near Bridgwater.

For the best thorough-bred stallion, suited for country pur-
poses, £15, H. D. Seymour, Esq., M.P.

COMMENDED AND HIGHLY COMMENDED.

* Those thus marked are highly commended.

DEVONS.

Mr. Samuel Farthing, Stowey Court, Bridgwater, for a 3
years 1 month and two weeks old Devon bull.

James Wentworth Buller, Esq., of the Downs, near Cre-
diton, for a pair of Devon heifers, 1 year and 1 month, and

I year old.

Mr. William MuULugs Gibbs, Bishop Lydeard, for a 3 yeats
and 6 months old Devon cow.

*Mr. Thomas Webber, Halbertou, near Tiverton, for a 7.
years and 3 mouths old Devon cow.

James Wentworth Buller, Esq., of the Downs, near Credi-
ton, for a 2 years and 4 mouths old Devon bull.

Mr. James Davy, Flitton, near North Molten, a 1 year and

II months old Devon bull.

SHORT-HORNS.

Mr. Saiusbury, for a 1 year and 6 months old heifer.

L0NG-1V00LLED SHEEP.

*Mr. George Radmore, of Thorverton, for 1 year and 4
months old long-wooUed ram. * Mr. Thomas Webber, of
Halberton, near Tiverton, for a 1 year and 4 months old long-
wooUed ram. Mr. George Radmore's yearling ram.

*Mr. John Bodley, of Stockley Pomeroy, near Crediton, for
a 1 year and 2 months old long-woolled [ram. *Mr. Thomas
Potter, of Thorverton, for a 2 years and 3 months old long-
woolled ram.

*Mr. Edmund Ruck, of Castle-hill, near Cricklade, a pen of
long-woolled ewes, 1 year and 3 mouths old.

LEICESTER AND COTSWOLD SHEEP.

Mr. George Radmore, of Court Hayes, near Thorverton, a 1
year aud 4 months old Leicester ram.

*Mr. Edmund Ruck, Castle-hill, near Cricklade, aud Lord
de Mauley, for yearling Cotswold rams.

EXTRA STOCK.

Mr. E. Jaques, Rushmead-farm, Monckton Farley, Brad-
ford, a shorthorn cow, 4 years and 3 months old.

Mr. Jeremiah Liuklater, Southcot-place, Bath, for a Shet-
land stallion, 3 years old.

Mr. H. St. John Maule, Newton St. Loe, for a Shetland
mare.

Joseph Neeld, Esq., M.P., Grlttleton-house, Chippenham,
for a 7 year aud 3 months old Suffolk stallion.

JUDGES OF IMPLEMENTS.
Mr. I. Nalder, of Alveseote, near Lechlade; Mr. Thomas
Scott, of Broom Close, Ripon; Mr. Mark Farraut, of
Growing, Collumpton ; Mr. T. P. Outhwaite, of Bainesse ,
Catterick.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

IMPLEMENT PRIZES.

For the best plough for deep ploughing, £3 — Mr. John
Eddy, Kennford, Exeter.

For the best plough for general purposes, £3 — Howard,
Bedford.

For the best paring plough to be worked by two horses, £2 —
Arthur Silcock, Chippenham.

For the best subsoil plough, to be worked by not exceeding
three horses, £3 — Carson, Warminster.

For thebest turn wrest plough, £2 — Eddy, Kennford, Exeter.
For the best heavy harrow, £3 — Prize divided between Cam-
bridge, Bristol, and Howards, Bedford.
For the best light harrow, £2— Cambridge, Bristol.
For the best cultivator, grubber, and scarifier wide), £2 —
Charles Hart, Wantage, Berks.

For the best ditto (narrow), to be worked by two horses, £2
— Coleman, Chelmsford.
For the best roller, £2 — Wightraan and Denning, Chard.
For the best clod-crusher or clod presser, £2 — Fowler and
Fry, Bristol.

For the best corn drill, first prize, £5 — Hornsby and Son,
Spittlegate ; second prize, £2— Fowler and Fry, Bristol.

For the best turnip and manure drill, first prize £5 —

Hornsby and Son ; second prize £2 — Holmes and Son, Norwich.

For the best and most economical small occupation seed and

manure drill, for flat or ridge work, first prize £5 — Bowhay,

Modbury, Devon ; second prize £2 — Holmes, Norwich.

For the best horse hoe for green crops on the ridge, £2 —
Busby, Newton Bedale, Yorkshire.

For the best ditto on the flat, £2 — Busby.
For the best machine for settiug out turnips on the ridge or
flat preparatory to singling, £5 — Hackvale, Chipping Norton.
For the best haymaking machine, first prize £2 — Smith and
Ashby, Lincoln ; second prize £1 — Wightraan and Denning.
For the best horse rake for hay or corn, £2 — Howards,
Bedford.

For the best portable steam-engine, not exceeding 4-horse
power, £10— Hornsby and Son, Spittlegate.

For the best portable thrashing machine, with straw shaker,
to be driven by steam, not exceeding 4-horse power, £5 —
Hu.mphrie3, Pershcre.

For the best portable threshing machine, with straw shaker,
not requiring more than four horses, £5 — Webber, Newton
Abbot.

For the best straw shaker, £1 — Brinsmead, St. Giles, near
Torrington, Devon.

For the best portable threshing machine, not requiring more
than two horses, £5 — Cambridge, Bristol.

For the best clover seed drawer or sheller, £2 — Holmes,
Norwich.

For the best one-horse cart, for general purposes, £3 —
Busby, Newton Bedale.

For the best 2-horse waggon, £3 — Milverton, Thorverton,
near Colluropton.

For the best and most economical rick stand, £2 — Cam-
bridge, Bristol.

For the best chaff cutter, worked by horse or steam power,
£5 — Cornes, Nantwich.

For the best chaff cutter, worked by hand £2 — Cornes,
Nantwich.

For the best turnip cutter for sheep, £2 — Marychurch and
Son, Haverfordwest.

For the best corn and pulse bruiser, £2 — Turner and Co.,
Ipswich. A special award of £1 to Barrett and Co., Reading.
For the best oil-cake crusher, suited to crush every descrip-
tion of cake, £2— Hornsby and Son, Spittlegate.

For the best churn, £1 — Burgess and Key, London, An-
thony's American churn.

For the best cheese-press, £1 — Wightman and Denning,
Chard.

For the best collection of draining tools, £2 — Burgess and
Key, London.

SPECIAL AWARDS.

To S. Rowsell, Buckland St. Mary, SOa. for an American
horse rake.

To W. Pearce, Q,ueen-street, London, 403. for a vertical turnip
cutter and root slicer.

To J. Bailey, Nynehead, Wellington, Somerset, SOs. for a
turnip cart and cutter.

THE DINNER
Took place on Thursday evening, June 8, at the Assembly
Rooms, where accommodation was provided for upwards
of five hundred persons. W. Miles, Esq., M.P., pre-
sided, and was supported by the Right Hon. Lord
Portman, the Lord Lieutenant, the High Sheriff, J. C.
Somerville, Esq., the Ven. Archdeacon Gunning, the
Mayor of Bath, W. Pinney, Esq., M.P., Capt. Scobell,
M.P., W. H. P. G. Langton, Esq., M.P., W. F.
Knatchbull, Esq., M.P., Major Pickwick, G. Norman,
Esq., F. Popham, Esq., W. S. Wait, Esq., T. T.
Knyfton, Esq., &c., &c.

At half-past four the President, who took the chair
at four o'clock punctually, according to the announce-
ment publicly given, proposed that, although only a
portion of the company had arrived, those who were
ready should commence their dinner, as many gentlemen
were compelled to leave early in order to take the train.

The cloth having been cleared, the President rose and
proposed the usual loyal and patriotic toasts.

The President then said : The next toast is the one,
I may say, of the evening, namely, " The Bath and
West of England Agricultural Society" (cheers). In
returning thanks for the Army and Navy, my friend
Capt. Scobell rather cut the wind out of my sails ;
but still I must speak a little on the subject which he
alluded to, namely, the diflference between this Society
when its meetings were held in Bath alone, and now,
when it has become ambulatory. I well recollect
attending, four years ago, what I considered would, in
all probability, be the last meeting of the Society, when
it was waning to its least possible furrow, when the
animals exhibited had dwindled down to about thirty-
four, when your meeting was attended by about thirty
persons, and when your table was graced by not more
than sixteen or eighteen persons, including reporters.
T think the Duke of Bedford and Mr. Billingsley, and
other magnates of former days, would smile if they
could see the present gathering, and if they had been
in the Show Yard this day ; for I cannot but conceive
that, though we have possibly the elile here, yet we
should have had more present if this dinner had been
held in the immediate vicinity of the Show Yard, for,
previous to leaving the Show Yard, I saw what was very
pleasing to my eye, the honest farmer, with his wife and
daughters, taking on the grass their dinners (laughter and
cheers). From the remarks I have heard I am satisfied
that the efforts of the Society are duly appreciated, and
that it is becoming to be perfectly in consonance with

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

the originutois of the Eociefcy, and tliat it i» becoiiiing
the centre from which improvement will emanate
throughout the west of England. You will forgive me
if, before alluding to the sheep and cattle. I refer to
the number of implements, because, since I have been
cursed, as I may say, in the Royal Agricultural Society,
I have learned to feel the benefit which the production
of a new implement does in the cultivation of the soil.
I saw the implements first produced when the society
met at Oxford; I have seen to-day the implemenis
brought to your notice ; and I feel that the improve-
ment in fifteen or sixteen years has been productive of
a reduction in the expense of these almost perfect in-
struments, as to show the judgment which induced the
Royal Agricultural Society to adopt the motto, *' Science
and Practice." That motto h<is been so carried out by
U3 that I think any man possessing capital, and wishing
to obtain a good implement, might have gone to the
field to-day and made a judicious and useful selection
from the stalls of those who had attended there from
Lincolnshire, Beds, Yorkshire, and other distant coun-
ties. We are much indebted to those manufacturers ;
and of the good which their inventions have produced,
we have only to look at the improvement among our
own local implement makers. And I have to record
this one fact, that an instrument maker, whose atten-
tion was first called to ploughs when the Royal Agri-
cultural Society met at Exeter, in tv,'o years carried
away the society's first prize against the two most re-
nowned implement makers who show at the Royal
Agricultural Society ; and this year, for the heavy
plough, he has again carried away the first prize. There
is also a reaping-machine, which, though it has not ob-
tained a prize, has been much commended ; but it is
brought here for sale at the price of £ll — (Hear, hear)
—the cheapest hitherto produced being as high as £20
to £22 — and I am informed it does its work well. The
maker told me his mind was turned to it by seeing the
difficulties which existed as to the pair of scissors which
cut the corn ; and he thought that the system brought
out in America had failed, and the common scissors was
not sufficiently applied. I saw two sheaves of rye
which had been admirably cut ; and I am told it did its
work to the satisfaction of the judges of implements.
Now, this is a fact ; this is how the society is bringing home
science to our own west country. What we want is, to
show our implement makers and cultivators how they may
improve the implements and the land ; and then God
bless those who do the best they can to help themselves
(cheers). At the council, this morning, a gentleman
addressed us on the subject of artificial manures ; and
when I state that the consumption of these artificial
manures has become so large that it is considered that
not less than £1,500,000 per annum is spent by the
British farmer in these manures, it must be seen to be
of the greatest moment that the British farmer may know
that he should have a proper artificial manure, and that
the manure is worth the money given for it. I am happy
to say that old prejudices are wearing away, and that
new light is springing up ; but if you read the pub-
lications of the society, you will see that the farmers,

in purchasing these manures, have often been imposed
upon. (Hear, hear.) But in this matter the Royal
Agricultural Society has taken the lead ; and not only
the members, but any farmer may send a sample of the
manure which they wish to apply, to have it tested.
This is a great fact. It is unfair to say to a farmer.
Do this, and do that, unless he knows that, when he
pays his £6, ^8, or £10 per ton, he has a legitimate ar-
ticle. If he gets a good article, of this I am sure, that
he will find himself immensely benefited. I am happy
to say that the Bath and ¥/est of England Society will
take the subject into consideration ; but yon must not
expect it to do too much, because we have not that
funded property which I hope it will be eventually our
iot to possess, so that we may be able to pay a man an
annual salary for testing these manures. That will be
the only mode to which you, as members of the society,
can possibly resort, to enable you to tell whether, having
paid say from £1 to £12 per ton for these manures,
you have one which you can put with everything which
will eventually become serviceable to your cultivation.
I have now to say a few words on the animals which
were shown, and I am very anxious to do this, because,
though I may pass by many classes, still I shall have
something to say on one, namely, the sheep. I hope I
may be addressing disappointed competitors in this de-
partment, because it has been thought necessary that
certain rules should be adopted, and that the shearing,
not the clipping, should take place at a certain time.
Now the judges thought it their duty, from their deter-
mination to carry out the rules of the society, to exclude
many lots of sheep worthy of commendation, and pro-
bably worthy of premiums, because they were clipped,
and not shorn. I merely mention this to show you that
those whom you appointed endeavoured to do their duty.
As to the implements, I am indeed proud to say that,
however good we may have conceived the exhibition to
have been at Taunton — however good we may have con-
ceived the exhibition to have been at Plymouth, this exhi-
bition in Bath exceeds them both — (loud cheers) — for I
find that the number of implements shown at Taunton was
446, at Plymouth 464, those which you have inspected
this day are in number no less than 749 — (cheers) — show-
ing that the efforts of the society are appreciated by the
implement makers, and that much may be hoped from
the trials which have been conducted under the auspices
of a gentleman to whom we cannot be too much obliged,
Mr. Amos (cheers). I am informed that in the trial of
two rival steam-engines, of ten hours' duration, it was
found that their merits were so equal that one consumed
only two pounds of fuel more than the other, and that
the excellence of working was so similar that the only
mode which Mr. Amos could adopt for testing their
excellence was by taking them to pieces, and awarding
Ihe premium to the best made engine (cheers). This
showed that implements sold with the stamp and autho-
rity of being good ; and you cannot do better than pur-
chase such when thus assured of their excellence. In
conclusion, I am happy to say that, through the inces-
sant applications and persevering energy of my friend,
Mr. Acland— -(loud cheers) — and it is right, indeed, that

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

praise should be given where praise is due — (renewed
cheering) — we see results in 1854 which we had no reason
to anticipate in 1852 (cheers).

Lord PoRTMAN gave, as the next toast, " The
Health of the President." The toast was received with
hearty, prolonged, and renewed chcer'ng, taken up again
and again from all parts of the room. When he found
the opportunity, his lordship proceeded to say : I believe
that if I did quite right I should sit down at once, for it
is quite clear that no words are wanted from me beyond
the magical words I have already uLtered. But it would
be scarcely right that I should not be allowed the oppor-
tunity of congratulating myself that I, who began life
with my friend at Eton, who rode hunting with him in
Lincolnshire, and worked a great many years with him
in agricultural pursuits, should have the happiness of
saying what a delight it is to see him in the chair, and
received as he has been by every one in the room
(cheers). In drinking his health you not only drink the
health of the President of the Bath and West of England
Agricultural Society, but of the President-elect of the
Royal Agricultural Society of England (loud cheers).
And if any one man in the kingdom believes there is the
slightest jealousy, the slightest tinge of feeling other than
that of the most harmonious concordance between the
two societies — that which, I may venture to say (as he
and I were originally promoters of the Royal Agricul-
tural Society of England), is the child of this society,
and the parent ; should such an idea be entertained, the
error of it is shown in the fact that they have taken from
us for their next year's president the man who has done
us such good service, that we can scarcely express our
thanks sufficiently for the way in which he has devoted
his time and his talents to our good (loud cheers). So
much for the man : now let me say one word for the
society. I had the good fortune to be the expiring pre-
sident of the old society ; and I saw, on my aj^point-
ment, that it required invigoration. This has been
accomplished not by various chemical or instrumental
experiments, but by that good sense which induced the
men of the Bath and West of England Society to open
their doors to the other agriculturists of the whole of
this part of the country ; so that by the assistance of
our Devon friends we have a society which will do credit
to all who assist in working it out ; and I think we may
reasonably contemplate that next year the numbers will
be increased, for the many farmers who have seen our
exhibition will go home and say, "Is it not a shame
that I don't subscribe to this society ? (Cheers and
laughter.) Am I to get the opportunity of seeing these
instruments and the cattle brought from various districts
to enable me to improve my own stock and pay nothing
for it ?" I shall say no more, but ask you to drink
with enthusiasm the health of our excellent friend the
President (loud cheers).

The Chairman, who was received with loud cheers,
said : Gentlemen, I thank you for the kind manner in
which you have received my health. It has always
been my ambition to do as much as I can for the benefit
of my fellow-creatures— (Hear, hear) — and when I re-
collect the position of this country thirty or forty years

since, and the position in which we now see the gene-
rality of the community, I cannot but think that much
good has been done by this description of assembly,
and that at any rale we have the advantage in the
spread of morality and Christianity over antecedent
times. As for the little I have done to promote the
welfare of this and other societies, I have always found
in Englishmen a sterling spark, which a very little will
awaken. Show them an advantage, and they will
embrace it. They ask but to be guided to the fount of
knowledge, and more and more as they acquire ex-
perience they wish to drink still deeper. Let us then
do the most we can to bring all classes to a superior
civilization, and let us be assured we shall have an
ample reward.

Mr. SiLLiFANT, of Combe, Devon, proposed the
" Industrial Classes." Drunk with three times three,
the cheers being led in gallant style by the Chairman.

Mr. W. B. Naish, in a brief speech, proposed
" The Mayor and Citizens of Bath," a toast received
with general enthusiasm, and responded to by the
Mayor.

Mr. KiDNER, of Taunton, proposed the " Health of
the Exhibition Committee," coupling with it the name
of Mv. J. H. Cotterell. (Che(rs).

Mr. Cotterell returned thanks.

The President said, he was about to propose a
toast which was not in the list, but one which if it were
not given would occasion deep regret connected with
their own exhibition ; there had been a Poultry Show,
and seeing that that had been the main attraction, he
could not but propose the health of the gentleman who
originated it. He therefore begged to propose "The
Health of IVIr. Jouathan Gray." (Cheers).

Mr. Gray returned thanks, and remarked that the
subject of poultry was a most important one to the
country, for it was a fact that within the last six or
seven years the importation from France had amounted
to nearly a million a year. The reduction, since the
exhibitions of poultry had been brought about, had
been nearly one half. The amount of success which
had attended the present show he was almost afraid to
state. He believed that between 3,000 and 4,000
visited it on Wednesday, and on Thursday not less than
12,000. (^Cheers). This unexpectedly large attend-
ance, he hoped, would be taken as an apology for any
want of accommodation which might at first have been
experienced.

Mr. T. D. Acland was received with reiterated
cheering on rising to propose " The Judges and Stew-
ards of the Yards." He said, before he proposed the
toast with which he had been entrusted, he would con-
gratulate the company, not on the attendance at the
dinner, which he confessed somewhat surprised him, but
on what they had seen and heard in the show-yard that
day. As regarded their numbers at the dinner-table,
he could only account for their being so small on the
suggestion which had been already thrown out — that the
wives and other attractions at the show h^d kept some of
their friends in the yard, who would otherwise have been
present on that occasion. They all knew the charm of

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

the cliairmaa's name — not only in East Somerset, but
all over England— too well to be aware it was from no
diminution or want of intense cordiality towards the
chairman as president of the Bath and West of England
Society, or as William Miles, the friend of the farmers,
that the room was not full (Hear, hear). The hon. gen-
tleman then alluded to the change which had taken
place in the plan of the society, in making its meetings
moveable instead of confining them to Bath, and cor-
rected an error into which Captain Scobell had fallen as
to the title of the society having always been the same
as at present, its original title having been the Bath
Society, which was ultimately changed for that of the
Bath and West of England Society. Mr. Acland then
noticed the idea which prevailed in some quarters that
this society was intended as a rival to the Royal Agri-
cultural Society ; and showed that, omitting Middlesex
and Yorkshire, there was only one other county in Eng-
land which had more members of the Royal Agricultural
Society than the two counties of Devon and Somerset,
and that county was Norfolk — the number of members
being, in Middlesex 266, Yorkshire 229, Norfolk 256,
Devon 208, and Somerset 187. In conclusion, Mr.
Acland bore testimony to the essential services rendered
to the cause of agriculture and the society by the judges
and stewards of the yards of the show, whose healths he
called upon the company to drink.

Mr. Amos and Mr. Pitman having briefly responded,
Mr. J. Whitaker was called on, and in the course of
his remarks, in thanking the meeting on behalf of him-
self and his colleagues, the other judges of stock, said :
that their task as judges had been in some respects a
painful one, inasmuch as they had been obliged to dis-
qualify so many of the Down ewes for not being closely
shorn, according to the rules of the society ; but that in
doing this, they felt they had only done their duty ; that
they had much pleasure in saying that the whole of the
class of horned sheep presented a marked contrast, in
being most fairly and closely shorn ; that they begged
leave to suggest to the society the propriety of removing
the restriction as to the time of shearing ; that in their
opinion the certificates given by exhibitors should con-
tain as few restrictions as possible, as, however stringent
they are, the unscrupulous will disregard them, and thus

place judges in the painful dilemma of either shrinking
from their duty, or impugning the integrity of exhi-
bitors. They consider, therefore, that the question as
to the time of shearing should be left to the discrimina-
tion of the judges ; that the judges also recommend the
removal of the restriction as to the age at which rams
are shorn, as in restricting them to three years many
superior sheep are excluded from competition, besides
that it is open to the objections before stated ; they also
recommend the society to extend their premiums to the
Cotswold and Leicester classes, to ewes of the two ages,
and to old rams, giving the same premiums in these
classes as are given for long-woolled sheep, Down, and
horned sheep classes. They noticed some very superior
rams and ewes, belonging to Lord de Mauley, excluded
from competition, and placed as extra stock in conse-
quence of their being shown as Cotswolds, and thus ex-
cluded from the long-woolled class.

Mr. Lush proposed '' The Local Committee, "
coupling with the toast the name of Dr. Falconer, who
appropriately responded.

Mr. Belfield briefly gave "The Health of the
Secretary, Mr. Henry St. John Maule."

Mr. Maule, in rising to acknowledge the toast, was
received with cordial cheers. He expressed the hap-
piness he felt in finding that, in his own city, there
were so many gentlemen from neighbouring counties
who were kind enough to give him so warm a greeting.
It was gratifying in this sense, that it assured him that
he had done his duty. He had received in all the
counties connected with the Society the most hearty
welcome, and everywhere a most hospitable reception.
In carrying out the arrangements for the present show,
he had received the greatest assistance from their di-
rector, Mr. Widdicombe, and from the local secretary,
Mr, J. D. Bush, who had shown the greatest activity
in working out the necessary details.

Mr. Acland, having briefly proposed the health
of Mr. Fry, the builder of the sheds, &c..

The Chairman gave "The Health of the Earl
Fortescue, the President elect," and then vacated the
chair.

The company broke up about eight o'clock.

ON THE CULTURE OF THE TURNIP.

The turnip crop is the foundatiou upon which
good husbandry is built. Without this crop, or those
analogousto it, modernhusbandry would stagnate, and
all the various and almost innumerable appliances that
have bcenbrought to bear upon the improvement of this
crop would be lost, to the incalculable injury of the
community. We make this not very trite remark for
the purpose of showing that so far as the great bulk
of the farmers of this country are concerned, this
loss is to a very great extent annually experienced,
farmers cannot — will not — be persuaded to make

use of the adventitious aids which are so essential
in promoting tlie speedy and liealthy development of
the young turnip plant. We are well aware, pain-
fully aware, that great imposition is practised in the
manufacture and sale of artificial manures ; but that
fact does not invalidate the value or importance of
artificial manures of genuine character. The great
expense and trouble are urged against the adoption
of these manures : this is untenable, if Jiot futile.
Many such useful mixtures and truly effectual appli-
cations may be drilled in with the seed at a trifling

THE FARMER'S MAGAZLNE.

cost. Who woald object to a really efScacious pre-
servative of his turnip crop for the cost of a few
shillings per acre? Many very good and cheap
composts may be made on every farm without much
trouble or expense. I have for many years used a
homely but an excellently valuable compost, made
from collections on my farm — it consists of
night-soil, pig manure, poultry and pigeon's dung,
dead animals (decomposed), cess-pool or kitchen
drainings, and the like ; these collections are
laid up together in a heap for an indefinite time,
and dried for drilling as required. This com-
post, mixed with ashes made from sods, twitch,
&c., in the proportion of i bushels of compost to 30
or 40 of ashes, forms a very effective dressing at a
cost of about 12s. per acre, including every expense,
i.e., sifting ashes, drying composts, and carrying
to the drill. And, with the addition of about 1
cwt. of superphosphate of lime or | cwt. of Peru-
vian guano, forms the most satisfactory and effective
dressing to put in with the seed that my experience
has led me to adopt, and I have great pleasure in
recommending it to those of my brethren who object
to expense and are afraid of imposition. To those
farmers who habitually use the more popular artificial
aids, T need not say a word: their experience has borne
ample testimony to their usefulness. I only beg them
to withstand most determinately every temptation to
do without such aids ; I unhesitatingly assert that no
turnip crop ought to be drilled in without artificial
aid of some kind — it is milk to the babe ; the better
the kind, in accordance with its^ design, the more
speedy will be the growth and development of the
turnip plant.

Soil and Management. — Any soil of open cha-
racter will do for turnips, if properly managed ; the
richer and more loamy the better. We are tired of
describing how land should be prepared. Everyone
knows that to prepare land for the turnip crop is to
bring it into as fine a tilth as it is possible to bring
it, and this can only be done by the various plough-
ings, harrowings, scarifyings, rollings, pickings, &c.,
&c., which the farmer's judgment will dictate to him,
and this should be accomplished early in the season ;
far better for laud to await the proper season for
sowing, than not to be in readiness when the season
arrives. When all is ready and the weather suitable,
thenlcteveryapplianceof the farm be putin requisition
andevery department of theworkgoonsimultaueously,
if possible ; so that the manure is laid on, ploughed
in, rolled down, and the seed and composts drilled
all within the hour ; at all events, let this be the aim,
if it cannot be at all times attainable.

On all rich loams, clean and beautifully cultivated,
it may be desirable to put the Swedish crop in " on
the flat ;" but on the far greater majority of soils
the ridge system had better be adopted. I believe

the greatest weight of crop has been found to grow
from the sowing on the flat on particular soils — fine
loams and the like ; but on all those of inferior
character the ridge system upon the average of years
has been found to excel. It has also many advantages :
it may be sown earher in the season, as the ridge-
hoe and harrow can continue the fallowing through-
out the summer, the manure is more readily covered
in, the hand hoeing and singling are more easily ac-
complished, and the advantages derived from the arti-
ficial aids are greater, as the deposit may be
proportionately larger than en the flat, &c. The
ridges are usually at 25 to 37 inch intervals. The
common varieties of turnip should on all good soils
be put in on the flat, and drilled in at such inter-
vals between the rows as will admit of their being set
out at equal distances or in squares throughout the
field, according to the variety sown, and the judgment
of the farmer may determine as to the space the
variety may require to perfect the bulbs ; the larger
the variety sown, the greater space will it require on
setting out. My usual practice is to drill at 12 inches
apart, and set out with an 11-iuch hoe. The workmen
cannot always strike to an inch, so that the average
would be about equal to 12 inches square. On poor
soils ridging for common turnips is often practised
with great success. In ridge hoeing, the horse-hoe
invariably precedes the hand hoe ; both, however,
should be in very early requisition, if the season is a
growing one ; and, indeed, if it is an unpromising one,
aird the fly makes its appearance, I know of no re-
medy equal to continual hoeing, taking care not to
disturb the plants unnecessarily and expose them to
drought. In flat hoeing, it is usual to hoe the space
between the drills in the first hoeing, and to set the
plants out in the second hoeing; no specific directions
can be given as to the number of hoeiugs — that
must entirely depend upon circumstances : no fear
need arise of doing too much, except in a really dry
season.

My object in reiterating an idea or two upon tur-
nip culture is to call general attention to the many
aids put forth to secure the turnip crop. I do ear-
nestly trust it will not be in vain. One feels
almost ashamed to urge farmers of the present day
to pay more heed to such things. I offer my
apology to every intelligent farmer for calling his
attention to them : I can only say that 1 have more
than once suffered from such inattention, and for the
future am resolved to use the best aids I can depend
upon as suited to the soU I cultivate. Adopt only
such manures as are satisfactorily established, ex-
cept on a small scale. The young plant cannot
grow in guano or manures of corresponding strength :
they require large admixtures or dilutions of ashes,
virgin soil, or liquid maniu'es of moderate strength.

P. F.

€4

THE FARMER'S MAGA^INB,

AGRICULTURAL BIOGRAPHY.

LIVING AUTHORS, OR ■ SUPfOSED TO BE LIVING.

CCCCXLVIIL— BLA.IKIE, 1819.
Francis Blaikie, a native of Tweedside, was first
noticed as a gardener in the Royal Gardens at Kew,
whence he was appointed to be manager of the
farming and horticultural establishments of the
Earl of Chesterfield, at Bretbey Park, in South
Derbyshire. At the abandonment of that establish-
ment by the death of the Earl, Mr. Blaikie became
land-steward to Mr. Coke of Holkham, where he
found scope for enterprize, and was largely em-
ployed in the improvements of that property. He
wrote " An essay on the conversion of arable land
into pasture, by transplanting turf; also the method
of preserving Swedish turnips by placing; and a
descriptive account of Norfolk ploughing;"
London, 1819, 12mo. "An essay on the manage-
ment of farm-yard manure, and formation of com-
post; with a plate, and description of the inverted
horsehoe, invented by the author;" London, 1819,
12mo. " A treatise on the management of hedge-
rows and hedgerow timber; pointing out the in-
jury done to the timber trees by close pruning, and
describes the pruning by shortening luxuriant
branches;" London, 1820, 12mo. " A treatise on
mildew, and the cultivation of wheat; including
hints on the use of lime, chalk, marl, clay, gyp-
sum, &c. ;" London, 182), 12mo. " On smut in
wheat;" London, 1822, 12mo. Mr. Blaikie's prac-
tical intelligence is distinguished by a very sound
judgment and a reasonable observation. It is to
lie regretted that the author did not compose a sys-
tematic work of agricultural comprehensioi), which
v/ould have contained his extensive and varied
knowledge, and relieved his mind of an accumu-
lated burden. Essays, treatises, and pamphlets
are with difficulty made known, and looked on as
insignificant. For our own part, we regard such
authors of enlightened practice as greatly advanced
before chemical theorists and vague idealogies.

CCCCXLIX.— Cooke, 1819.
Layton Cooke, land and timber surveyor, has
written "The grazier's manual; being tables show-
ing the nett weight of cattle, calves, sheep, and
swine, on new principles;" London, 1819, 12mo.
A neat volume of most useful materials, and has
passed into several editions.

CCCCL.-Bland, 1827.
"William Bland, jun,, has written "' The princi-

(Continued from page 526, vol. xl.J

pies of agriculture;" London, 1827, 8vo. The
volume is in 10 chapters of 128 pages, and treats
the processes of cultivation in a very concise and
enlightened manner. The author holds to practice,
and observes the results.

CCCCLI.— Johnson, 1830.

Cuthbert W.Johnson, Esq., F.R.S.,barrister-at-
law, has written "' On the uses of salt for agricul-
tural purposes ;" 8vo., price 5s., London, 1820.
" On the use of bones as a manure ;" 8vo., London,
1836. " On the advantages of railways to agricul-
ture;" London, 8vo., 1837, piice Is. 6d. "On
liquid manures ;" 1837, 8vo., London. "' On fer-
tilizers ;" 8vo., London, 1839, price 8s. " On in-
creasing the depth of soils; 8vo., London, 1840.
"On gypsum as afertihzer;" Bvo., London, 1840.
" On saltpetre and nitrate of soda as fertilizers ;"
8vo., London, 1840. " The farmer's encyclopaedia
and dictionary of rural affairs;" 8vo., London,
1842. " The farmer's medical dictionary for the
diseases of animals ;" 12mo., London, 1845. "The
Enghsh rural spelling book;" 12mo., London,
1846. "On guano as a manure;" 8vo., Is. 6d.
"On increasing the demand for agricultural
labour ;" 8vo., Is. 6d. " On the cottages of agri-
cultural labourers;" assisted by Edv/ard Cresy,
architect, 8vo., price Is. 6d. " Agricultural che-
mistry, for young farmers;" 12mo., price Is.
"The cottage farmer's assistant in the cultivation
of his land, and book of the household;" 12rao.,
price Is. " Calendar for young farmers ;" 12mo.,
price Is., containing directions for every month of
the year. " The modern dairyman and cowkeeper ;"
containing the cow, her breed and points, treat-
ment, cleanhness, food, land, diseases, suckling,
dairy, cow-house, milk and butter, cheese making,
Cheshire, Stilton, &c., &c."

The works of Mr. C. Johnson contain a mass
of very valuable intelligence that has been well
selected by the author, and clearly set in order for
the public use. The essays are short and pithy,
containing what is necessary, without any useless
adhesions to create bulk without adding know-
ledge. The larger works, "The farmer's dic-
tionary" and "1 he dairyman," are not surpassed
by any works on the subject of agriculture that
have yet issued from the bubbUng press of rural
authorship. The information is most correct, well

T'HE FAltMER*S MAGAZINE.

arranged, and handsomely "expressed ; the authori-
ties are quoted for each demonstration, and the
author's opinion concludes. He seems most at
home on the subject of manures, which is certainly
the most inviting part of agricultural practice to
the person who looks at the sources of its opera-
tion. The author much resembles Mr, Rham in
steadily weighing the best practice with an inno-
vating theory ; he advances further in the path of
chemistry, but his conclusions are not violent, or
wholly void of foundation. He has the art of
selecting the strong parts of any proposition, and
of placing it in a comfortable position. He has
read and thought to much purpose, and used well
the power of discrimination. Not having been
bred in the dogmas of agriculture, he has escaped
its trammels ; and not having run into the opposite
extreme of scientific disengagement, his works form
a medium of great value, and a source of im-
portant knowledge to the enlightened practitioner.
This statement is the expression of a general
opinion.

CCCCLH,— Low, 1834,

David Low, Esq., is Professor of Agriculture in
the University of Edinburgh : he has written
" Elements of practical agriculture ; 8vo., Edin.,
1834, "The breeds of domestic animals of the
British islands;" 2 vols., folio, London, 1842,
" An inquiry into the nature of simple bodies of
chemistry;" 8vo., London, 1844. "On landed
property, and the economy of estates;" 8vo.,
London, 1844. " On the domesticated animals of
the British islands ; comprehending the natural and
economical history of species and varieties — the
description of the properties of external form, and
observations on the principles and practice of breed-
ing;" 8vo,, London, 1845.

The first-mentioned work has reached the fifth
edition, and will continue to be a standard book on
the subject of general agriculture. The arrange-
ment is clear and definite, and the diflferent objects
are allotted the due extent of consideration. In
the division of the subject, this work exceeds any
predecessor. The work on landed property con-
veys much valuable information, which is applicable
to most cases of occurrence. There may be a want
in not treating the qualifications and duties of the
manager of estates of land, in which we believe the
author is employed. The investigation of chemical
bodies does not interest the farmer, and the breeds
of domesticated animals is removed by the price
and extent of the subject far beyond the common
entertainment. But the merit is acknowledged.
Mr. Low writes very practically, clearly, and
sensibly. His name is deservedly popular.

CCCCLIIL— Baxter, 1S34.
J. Baxter, Lewes, has compiled and published
"The library of agricultural and horticultural
knowledge, with a memoir of Mr. EUman, of
Glynde, and an appendix containing a farmer's and
a gardener's calendar, and a collection of useful
tables;" London, 1834, 8vo, The work is alpha-
betically arranged, and contains much useful matter
that is interesting to the farmer and gardener, Mr,
EUman may have been the chief person concerned,
and his very enlightened practice could not fail to
produce something good in the profession which he
had long adorned. The work has passed through
several editions, and enjoys a very considerable re-
putation. Its deservings are above mediocrity.

CCCCLIV.— LawsoxN, 1834.
Peter Lawson and Son, seedsmen in Edinburgh,
have written "The agriculturist's manual; being a
familiar description of the agricultural plants cul-
tivated in Europe, including practical observations
respecting those suited to the climate of Great
Britain, and forming a report of the Agricultural
Museum in Edinburgh;" 1838, 8vo. The book
contains 430 pages, and describes the cereal grasses
scientifically and practically, the luguminous plants,
the herbage and forage plants, the leguminous
forage vegetables, cruciferous plants, root plants
tuberous and fusiform, plants used in the arts, for
timber, and for horticulture. A list follows of
models and implements, garden productions, and
list of contributors. The scientific grower of vege-
tables will be much delighted with this book, which
pleases his fancy and directs his art. Even the
mere practitioner will derive advantage by the pos-
session of the work, the object of which is science
with practice, and the purpose is well performed.
The scientific portion of the work is plainly worded,
and easily understood.

CCCCXV.-PoppY, 1834.
Charles Poppy, farmer at Wilnesham, SuflFolk,
has written " Practical hints on burning clay and
sods ; surface soil of fallows ; also on the employ-
ment of the poor ;" London, 8vo. The essay ex-
tends to 28 pages, detaiUng the mode of burning
clay and sods, the expense and advantages. No
doubt can exist that all surface lands will be bene-
fited from being heated and torrified ; and it may
be conceived that incinerated substances, as lime
and clay, impart the benefit by raising the tempe-
rature of the ground by means of the heat retained
from the combustion. And the quantity or degree
of benefit conferred will depend on the power of
the burnt substance to retain heat, and on the
capability of the soil to which it is applied to imbibe
and retain caloric fur future use. Clay being a very

J> 2

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

bad conductor, will convey little benefit as a
manure, as experience has shown ; caloric will
separate the particles, but will not remain in the
sundered fragments. Our own practice often pro-
posed to I'educe into ashes the surface clods of clay-
fallows, by mixing with lime cinders, and igniting
with the use of water. The ashes would be of two
kinds, and convey caloric to the soil in combina-
tion. The benefit will be proportional with its
powers of imbibing and retaining the heat.

CCCCLVI.— Rennie, 1S34.

James Rennie, A.M., professor of zoology. King's
College, London, has written "The handbook of
agriculture in principle and practice, for the use of
schools and allotment tenants;" London, 1834,
l6mo., price Is. 3d. stitched. The pages are 92, de-
taiUng the science, art, and practice of agriculture
in the cultivation of plants and management of ani-
mals. The directions are very sensible and judi-
cious, but contain nothing new or worth any
remark. The plan of a labourer's cottage is given
from those devised by Mr. Menteath, of Closeburn,
in Dumfrieshire, with the sleeping-apartment on
the ground floor, the ideas not being able to ascend
to the height of ten feet in a second storey of a])art-
ments. This moderate height stops all northern
ideas on the subject of cottages.

CCCCLVIL— HuTT, 1838.

William Hutt, Esq., M.P., wrote "Key to agri-
cultural prosperity — state and prospects of British
agriculture;" price 2s.6d.,in247 octavo pages. This
essay resulted from an inquiry into agricultural dis-
tress, in 1836, by a committee of the House of
Commons, and forms a compendium of their
labours. After the general peace, many keys were
found to open the lock of agricultural depression,
which arose from the altered circumstances of the
civilized world : not one succeeded, and the handle
has yet to be made. Our own opinion always coin-
cided with that of the late Earl Grey— that a prompt
adjustment of rent was the oialy key to solve the
difficulty, and experience has confirmed the just
sentiment. It has been done of necessity, and
might have come from a sure prescience.

CCCCLVIIL— Morton, 1838.

John Morton, Whitfield, near Berkeley, Glouces-
tershire, has written " On the nature and property
of soils, and on the rent and profits of agriculture;"
London, 1S3S, Svo. And, along with Joshua
Trimmer, " An attempt to estimate the effects of
protecting duties on the profits of agriculture;"
London, 1845, 8vo. These works have raised the
name of the author to a high place in the agricul-
tural world, which has been supported by every

attachment of practice. Mr. Morton is known as
the projector and conductor of Earl Ducie's ex-
ample farm, where, from an almost tenantless waste,
a farm of 240 acres has been converted into a pro-
ductive ground of no common quality. The outlay
of money was very considerable, and done to show
that land will repay every judicious expenditure,
and can be continued in that remunerative condition
by an enlightened routine of cultivation. Draining
and manuring have been the chief agents of opera-
tion ; and when judiciously performed, a certain
success must attend. The most reputed improve-
ments have been executed on the land, and upon
the farm buildings, roads, and water-courses. The
success has been most splendid ; perhaps no parallel
exists in Britain to the quantity of green crops which
grow upon that farm, and which yield the profits
and support the fertility. An increased rent of
15s. an acre amply pays the interest of the capital
expended, besides an annuity for the gradual
extinction of the outlay. Much more labour is
employed, and in making the improvements activity
was employed and remunerated.

A most important lesson is taught by the exam-
ple of Mr. Morton — to concentrate the means on
any point that are superior to the resistance that is
opposed, and by dint of power and pith, to compel
success, and rob fortune of its favours. By this
method, any lands will yield a similar product in
proportion to quality and circumstances. The value
of land may be doubled, and the national resources
indefinitely increased.

In the book " On soils," the author shows an
extensive geology, and a most enlightened practical
acquirement. On these subjects the work will con-
tinue a standard production. In the work on pro-
tective duties and profit, the principles are set forth
which experience is daily confirming. The author
beheld a steady horizon.

CCCCLIX.— Main, 1839.

James Main, A.L.S., Chelsea, has written
"Poultry, breeding, rearing, and fattening;" the
contents are — introductory remarks, pea-fowl,
history and breeding, swan, turkey, goose, duck,
fowl, capering of fowls, guinea-fowl, pheasant, sec-
tion of a turkey-house, fowl-house, fattening-house,
crops for poultry, &c., &c. ; London, 8vo., price
6s. " The young farmer's manual ; showing the
principles and practice of agriculture, as applicable
to turnip-land farms in the south of England, with
observations and remarks on cattle, plants, and
implements;" London, 1839, Svo. The author
has written some works on botany and forest
planting.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

The book on poultry is one of the best of the
kind, and may justly claim a superiority over larj^er
and more vaunted works. Plain truthful practice
is the recommendation of it, which forms the chief
merit of any work on practical matters. "The
young farmer's manual" contains the routine busi-
Bess of common farming in a most ehgible form,
in small compass, and appropriate language of ex-
pression. No book in the agricultural world con-
veys a greater quantity of sound intelligence, which
has been gathered from enlightened practice and
attentive observation. The author makes brief
statements, but ample for use, and sufficient for the
purpose. Our mite of approbation has never been
better bestowed.

CCCCLX.— Hodges, 1840,

Thomas Law Hodges, Esq., M.P., has written
"The use and advantages of Pearson's draining
plough ;" price Is. Plough draining of land may
be very legitimately placed alongside the machine
reaping of corn crops ; in some very few particular
cases both applications will be somewhat serviceable,
and render an assistance that will be scarcely remu-
nerative of the cost. The subsoil of lands being
rocky, stony, compact, and hardened, will defy the
power of the draining plough, and confine its use
to soft strata of every denomination. So will the
reaping machines be confined to level grounds and
upright standing crops, and banished from hilly
lands and ridged surfaces. These objections are
irremovable.

CCCCLXI.— Spooner, 1840.

W. C. Spooner, a veterinary surgeon, near
Southampton, has written " A treatise on manures,
their comparative and economical qualities, with
the principles which should influence and regulate
their application;" London, 1840, 8 vo. There is con-
tained the prize essay, by the author, on the use of
the superphosphate of lime produced with acid and
bones for manure. The author is known as a dis-
tinguished member of the veterinary profession, and
in the above essay he has added to the reputation
on that head. The remarks and sentiments are
very just, correct, and practical.

CCCCLXn.— Jackson, 1840.

James Jackson, of Pennycuick, near Edinburgh,
author of several prize essays in Scotland, has
written " A treatise on agriculture and dairy hus-
bandry;" Edin., 1840, 8vo. This work is in 116
large octavo pages, and treats arable management
only, with a short treatise on dairying. The ani-
mals of the farm are not entered. It is a very

sensible production, plain, correct, and simply
practical; so much so, that no analysis is given of
any manuring substance, except of bone dust, and
that is subjoined in a note. The writer seems to
have thought that the value of the article can be
conveyed without the appendage of the chemical
constituents ; and he is right. His practical
opinions and directions need no recommendation
beyond the perusal.

CCCCLXIIL— Sproule, 1842.

John Sproule, Ireland, editor of Irish Farmer's
Journal, has written "A treatise on agriculture;
comprehending the nature, properties, and improve-
ment of soils, the structure, functions, and cultiva-
tion of plants, and the husbandry of the domestic
animals of the farm ;" Dublin, 1842, Bvo. "An
essay on the growth and management of flax in
Ireland," which obtained the gold medal of the
Royal Dublin Society; Dublin, 1844, 8vo. The
first work is a most respectable performance, well
arranged, correct in the description, and ample in
the detail. Ireland has not produced any equal
work, and Britain has not many that are far ad-
vanced beyond its worth. It comprehends tho
whole business of the farm, and is therefore supe-
rior to many works that treat one part of the farm-
ing business. The enlightened practice of agricul-
ture has never been more described for common
adoption.

The essay on flax is a pamphlet of 40 octavo
pages, and well deserved the prize which it gained.
The author does not encumber any work with scien-
tific quotations of analytical contents; he prefers
the use of practical results and illustrations, and
gives in the appendix the statements of chemistry
on the subject of description. The body of the
work is thus clear, and the appendix may be used
or not.

CCCCLXIV.— SauARRY, 1842.

Charles Squarry has written "A popular treatise
on agricultural chemistry, intended for the use of
the practical farmer;" London, 1842, 8 vo,, price
5s. This author is thought to have simplified the
relation of chemistry and agriculture with great
skill and ability, and rendered the subject less ab-
struse for the common comprehension. But a
subject may be very fully comprehended, and still
remain beyond application ; the connection may be
too fine and minute for the tear and wear of utility.
The author describes the usual scientific subjects —
soil, and manures, and plants. Lime is very briefly
mentioned, and nothing added to its former cha-
racter. The same may be said of other matters.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

LONDON CENTRAL FARMERS' CLUB

The London, or, as it is now written, " the Lon-
don Central," Farmer's Club, closed its session on
Monday, June 5, with another discussion on the con-
dition of the labourer. The text-word on this oc-
casion was made to refer more especially to any
real advantage to be derived from the incentive to
exertion, or the force of example. " Character "
is certainly everything in this country ; but is it
worth while making this in any way public pro-
perty ? Does it become us to at all distinguish the
man whose pride it is to have led a life of honest
industry? Need we trouble ourselves to say how
we appreciate his conduct, or how we would have
others learn from him to go and do likewise ? Is
it not, rather, simply a matter of business between
him and his employer, who have managed to agree
so long and so well ? To them let us still leave it,
or, if called on by any chance to notice this good
and faithful servant, let us pass him on with the
cool, matter-of-fact compliment of Tom Thumb in
the play —

"You have done your duty, but you have done no more !"

The gentleman who opened the discussion on
Monday evening appears to consider these La-
bourers' Friend Societies— that is, as here inter-
preted, societies for the encouragement of good
conduct and skilled industry in the farm
servant — to be something very like mistaken
notions. He admits the good intention, while
at the same time he but too often condemns
its being carried into practice. With every
respect for the ability and evident attention he
had given to his subject, we cannot help thinking
that he essays to prove this by some rather special
pleading. He takes, as our readers will gather
from his opening address, the rules and regulations
of some hundred or so of these Labourers' Friend
Societies, and from these he carefully selects every
ill-considered or impolitic condition he can possibly
find. These are all duly arranged to read on, one
after the other, until the astounded auditor comes to
picture one of these Labourers' Friends as little
short of a mass of absurdity, and wrong-headed
benevolence. The notion, for instance, of giving
a man a prize for going to church — simply, as
Mr. Morton comments, " a premium upon hypo-
crisy." This, it seems, is one of the items in
the clergyman's prize of the North-East Hants
Association. We name this society, as Mr.
Morton instances it; but no doubt such a re-
ward is pretty generally offered in the other hun-
dred or so, with the particulars of which the

speaker had furnished himself. Is it so ? Or,
rather, is not this " premium upon hypocrisy" only
an isolated case, to be found in East Hants, and
hardly anywhere else ? Or take, again, the Wilt-
shire Society, which distributes its twenty coats by
lottery. How many other such societies do the
same? One or two more (but certainly very few
comparatively) manifest some occasional negligence
or injudicious allotment of their funds. ¥/e are
quite prepared, though, to treat all this as excep-
tional rather than general. We have very little
doubt that, despite its premium upon hypocrisy,
Mr. Morton might, had he desired it, have disco-
vered many a redeeming feature in the proceedings
of the North East Hants Association. All the good
intended in North Wilts, too, we should trust is
not left entirely to chance for its results, despite
the great-coats quoted against it. This would be
a hard world to live in, was one flaw found sufficient
to condemn ; for few of us, indeed, are to be found
without one.

On the question of prizes for long and good ser-
vice, we are very much at issue with the introducer
of the subject at the Farmers' Club. We do place
some reliance on the benefit of example, and we
believe that no one private person, however high
his position or great his influence, could impress
this example to anything like the same extent which
would follow its recognition by a public body. To
argue that any man only retains his place " upon
compulsion," merely to carry off the two or three
pounds at the end of his thirty or forty years, is of
course to argue a palpable absurdity. To main-
tain, however, on the other hand, that to evince
an appreciation of this conduct by the offer
of some testimonial, can convey no good moral
with it, we hold to be almost an equally
ridiculous assumption. Did the Duke of Rich-
mond and his soldiers, when fighting their way
through the Peninsula, think of nothing but the
medals they might receive when they got home
again ? And yet, has there been no good
attendant on thus honouring them ? Does the
clergyman who, by many years' attention to their
wants, has earned the respect of his parishioners,
think of nothing but the teapot they will present
to his wife ? The good landlord of nothing beyond
the piece of plate he will have offered him by his
tenantry ? There are, no doubt, but too many
testimonials now-a-days that are little merited by
those who pocket them. We do not rank, how-
ever, the premium for good service to the farm-

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

servant to be amongst these. We cannot but con-
sider it as an honour fairly earned, and one the
recognition of which carries all the force of a good
example with it.

We could have wished that more practical
men had taken part in this discussion. It will
be observed that siich as did were all ready to
dispute the wholesale condemnation which they
gathered to be the intent of Mr. Morton's paper.
This, though, was denied by that gentleman,
and the practical benefit instanced of rewards
offered for skilled industry. We can speak our-
selves personally to the striking improvement in
many districts, mainly attributable to the estabUsh-
meut of these societies. By their influence the
labourer has become not only a better workman,
but a better man ; and what we take to be Mr.
Morton's mistake is, that while he admits the one
end, he does anything but due justice to the other.
We may test his conclusions by the experience of
one of his own correspondents : —

"I have been in the almost sole management of the Rodiiig
Labourers' Friend Society for twelve or thirteen years, and
have never found any reason to abate the favourable opinion I
have always entertained of its beneficial operation, both upon
masters and labourers, for I do not think the effect is solely
confined to the labouring class. I think one great good has
been in drawing the employer and the employed more closely
together, and thereby more intimately identifying their mutual
interest?, from which has been fostered a greater kindliness of
feeling towards each other, which has to a great exteut resisted
the disassociating spirit of the age. My own feeling on the
subject is borne out generally by the farmers of the district —
that the labourers are more skilful, they have a more tender
regard for character, and they value a good name, especially
connected with this society. I can safely aver that scarcely
a prizeman amongst us has ever been found to disgrace the
recommendation of his master, based, as it strictly is with us,
on good moral conduct."

Our own opinion, we must say, is altogether in
accordance with the reverend gentleman who thus
writes, and with " the farmers of the district."

ON THE PRESENT POLICY OF OUR LABOURERS'
FRIEND SOCIETIES.

The usual monthly meeting took place on Monday,
June 5th, at the Club House, Blackfriars ; Mr. Pain,
of Felmersham, in the chair. The subject — " On the
present policy of our Labourers' Friend Societies" —
was introduced by

Jlr. Morton, who said : I confess it was not because of
my belief in the great influence of Labourers' Friend So-
cieties on the condition of the labouring population that I
ventured to suggest their present policy as being worthy
of the attention of this club. Scattered, as such societies
art;, at such wide intervals over the country — with such
an extensive field, therefore, to each, over which it has
to administer what power it may possess — their influence
cannot be very great. And I believe that there are few

gentlemen resident ia country localities, who have taken
an interest in the welfare of the labourers around them ,
but must feel that that has been comparatively little in-
fluenced in this particular way. No doubt the hearty
union of many in pursuit of any object renders that ob-
ject easier and more likely of attainment ; but if the ob-
ject be, as in the case of most of our Labourers' Friend
Societies it professedly is, the moral improvement of the
district, I believe it will be found that individual influ-
ence and example, and not that of societies, is the only
really useful and efficient agent. No one, I think, will
dispute the opinion that a single energetic man, an em-
ployer of labour, whether he be a farmer or a manufac-
turer, with a personal character for rectitude and
benevolence— kind enough to wish his neighbours well,
and wise enough as well as able to work for that end, as
well as wish it — will exert a far more powerful and suc-
cessful influence for good upon the labourers around him,
than any society, with its system of direct rewards, could
hope to do, though it held its meetings in the market
town close by, and was supported by all the gentlemen
in the county. Although, however, the power of such
societies may not be great, yet it is something ; and
being directed to an object which we all feel to be of the
very highest importance, it is greatly to be desired thit
it be directed aright ; and as it is certain that the discus-
sions and the resolutions of the Central Farmers' Club
do exert a considerable guiding influence on many of the
local Agricultural Societies, I hope that the present
policy of these societies, in reference to the agricultural
labourer, will this evening receive full and dispassionate
consideration. In the first place, then, what is the pre-
sent policy of our local Labourers' Friend Societies ?
That is to be gathered from their prize lists and their
rules ; and in order to answer this question I have gone
through the rules and the reports of upwards of 50 of the
local societies of England, and of many more in Scotland
and in L-eland. I do not refer to farmers' clubs and
discussional societies, of which there used to be many,
and are still a few in this country, but to local agricul-
tural societies, established, if we adopt the title of the
South Cheshire Association, " for the encouragement of
agricultural enterprise, and the promotion of industrious
and moral habits among the labouring portion of the
community." The- fourth general rule of the Cow-
fold (Sussex) Association puts the objects and the
policy of these societies still more plainly. It is as fol-
lows— "That two classes of prizes be offered by the
association : Class I., for the encouragement of enter-
prise amongst the farmers ; Class IT., for good
conduct and skill amongst labourers." On the any-
class of means employed I am not about to say first
thing ; the subject on the card confines me to the second
— the means employed by agricultural societies for the
benefit of the labourer. These means have, as the words
quoted indicate, two objects in view — the promotion,
namely, of good conduct and of skill. It so happens,
that among upwards of 100 letters which I received two
or three years ago from the secretaries of these societies,
in answer to a request for information, only two referred
to the influence which it was believed such societies

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

were exerting in this country. The one letter referred
to their influence on the skill cf the labourer, and the
other to their influence on his moral standing ; and as
these letters state pretty faii'ly the opinion on the sub-
ject which I should like to see embodied in this evening's
resolution, I will read them. The first is from the
secretary of the Isle of Thanet Sheep -shearing Society.
He states — " The object of this society is to improve the
labourers that perform such work, and to encourage
them, by rewarding them with prizes ; and I certainly
can state that they have very much improved since this
and similar societies have been formed." Here, I take
it, is a testimony to the success of these attempts, by
exciting emulation, to increase the skill and the efficiency
of the labourer. My second testimony is from the hon.
secretary of the Northallerton Agricultural Society.
He states that that society is supported directly by the
best names amongst the well-known agriculturists and
breeders of Yorkshire, and that it thus has advantages
over many other local societies ; but as to the influence
of its rewards for good conduct, for long servitude, or
avoiding parish relief, he says — "Having an oppor-
tunity of witnessing the practical working of the society,
I am enabled to say that the premiums to agricultural
labourers produce little or no good, either to the labour-
ers as a body, or to their employers ; and, in my opinion,
there would be far more wisdom in offering premiums
to the best cultivated gardens or plots of land than in
the present supposed method of rewarding the poorer
classes. Probably the best proof of this view of the
case is, that there is scarcely any competition for the
premiums at present offered, and the labourers can only
be induced to compete at the suggestion of their mas-
ters. I may add, in corroboration of the last remark,
a sentence which I find at the foot of the prize list of a
Cheshire association : " Members of the association are
particularly requested by the committee to endeavour to
induce cottagers in their respective neighbourhoods to
become candidates for the premiums offered for their
competition." Vi'ell then, the second letter bears, I
think, a testimony to the inefficiency of the system of
money rewards as incitements to improved moral con-
duct. These two letters, then, state plainly enough the
usefulness of attempting, by money rewards, to escite
to greater skill; and the uselessness of attempting, by
money rewards, to induce a higher moral standing.
They exactly state the opinions on the subject which I
hold myself, and which I should be very glad to see em-
bodied in a resolution of this club. These letters are,
as I have said, of several years ago ; but it is plain that
their value as evidence is altogether independent of their
date. I may mention, by the way, that the greater
number of the reports of these societies which I have
examined within the last few days are of two or three
years ago ; but those of the past, and even of the present
season, which I have also seen, maintain their original
character ; and 1 believe, therefore, that I am safe in
reading the present policy of our Labourers' Friend
Societies in these reports a few years ago, as well as
of the present time, which I have in my possession,
rirst, as to prizes for evidence of skill, [A prize list was

here read, in which rewards to ploughmen, shepherds,
hedgers, thatchers, hoers, barnsmen, hop-dryers, dairy-
maids, chaff cutters, shoeing smiths, allotment tenants,
and cottagers (for bread, domestic economy, neatness,
&c.), were offered for skill in their respective operatioRS
and proceedings.]

The second division includes premiums for good con-
duct. I see the Cowfold Society has a rule, " That no
labourer is entitled to receive premiums who cannot
produce a printed certificate of good conduct from their
respective ministers at the annual meeting." I see, too,
that what are called clergymen's prizes are or were offered
by the North-East Hants Agricultural Association:—

The Clergymen's Prize of 31. 3s. will be given to tlie agri-
cultural labourer, or the now disabled cottager, who was an
agricultural labourer, who, living within the circle of the
North-East Hants Association, shall obtain from his parochial
minister, and one churchwardeu, the highest character for
honesty, industry, sobriety, attention to his children's educa-
tion, and his own religious duties ; the certificate must parti-
cularly state, if he and his family are regular in their attend-
ance on divine worship, at his own parish church.

The Clergymen'3 Prize of Two Guineas in like manner to
some single woman, widow or spinster, above the age of 55
years, &c., ia like manner.

I cannot but think, notwithstanding my full sympathy
with those who offer such prizes, in the object which I
presume them to have had in view, that this way of
attaining it is altogether mistaken. I would submit to
you that a money reward for honesty is an absurdity ;
that a money reward for industry should be given in the
form of wages ; that a money reward for attention to
religious duties is apt to be a premium upon hypocrisy.
Let us now, however, go through the ordinary list of
premiums offered by these societies in encouragement of
good conduct. [The second division of the prize list was
here gone through : it included prizes to the labourer
who has brought up " the largest number of children
born in wedlock without parish relief"; to him who has
" placed out the greatest number in respectable service" ;
prizes for "long servitude in the same family"; for
widows who have maintained families without parish
relief ; for those who have required the least aid during
" the visitation of sickness"; for the oldest men who
can prove they have not been convicted of crime ; for
those who "have supported impotent relations"; for
those who have put by most money, or who have sub-
scribed longest to a benefit society.]
This, then, I think, pretty fairly represents the course
pursued by our local agricultural societies, so far as their
efforts for the benefit of our labourers are concerned.
I am afraid that I must now for a few minutes still fur-
ther try your patience, while I allude to the alterations
which might, I believe, be usefully made in it. Firstj
however, 1 should say that the rewards for good conduct
are confined to England. I find them as far south as
Cornwall, and as far north as Kirkby Stephen, and Pen-
rith ; but they do not cross the border. The nearest
approach to anything of the kind in Scotland is a prize
given for neatly-managed cottages and gardens, which I
see announced in the list of an East Lcthian society.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

I am informed, however, by Mr. Hope, of Fenton
Barns, that no rewards of any kind are now ofTered
to labourers in East Lothian. And I am informed
by Mr. Hall Maxwell, the Secretary to the Highland
Society, that while they encourage cottages, gardens,
hedge-cutting, draining work, &c., they never had
prizes for long service or numerous families, and their
premiums, such as they are, consist of medals and money,
not of coat and buttons. In Ireland, again, no such
rewards are offered. In most districts there, indeed, there
is not generally that distinction between labourers and
occupiers of the land that there is with us, and the prizes
are confined to £2 and £1 rewards for small plots of
well-managed crops, whose cultivation it is desired to
encourage. Well, then, having thus stated what the
methods adopted by our English societies for the benefit
of labourers are, we are in a position to criticise them.
As to the first division of their efforts, no difference of
opinion will exist. The excitement of emulation is the
best way of increasing skill ; and the only thing of im-
portance will be to direct the rivalry aright, so that it
shall include all the processes and operations in which
the agriculture of the district is interested. Mr. Bailey
Denton, a member of this society, I believe, was the first
to start draining matches, and I see they are now ad-
vertised pretty generally as a feature in the local agri-
cultural meetings. Digging matches, too, are not
uncommon at Irish meetings. I see, too, an offer by a
Cheshire society which I think deserves to be generally
made — " For the invention or improvement of any im-
plement in husbandry, ^1 ;" thus directing the attention
of labourers to the means of facilitating their own work.
On the second head, however — i. e., as to the rewards
bearing upon good conduct— excepting possibly those
relating to benefit societies and savings' banks,
both my own feeling and judgment would be for
sweeping the whole affair away, as being generally mis-
chievous, and always mistaken. I am entirely ignorant
as to what the feeling of this society may be upon the
subject, and do not know, therefore, what detail of argu-
ment or persuasion may be needed in defence of my
position. I may, however, say that it is one which is
held by many gentlemen well known in the country
generally as agriculturists, and well known by labourers,
as well as others in their own localities, as good neigh-
lours. Perhaps sufficient credit is hardly given to those
who are for upsetting this system of rewards, not only
for the perfect sympathy which certainly they feel in the
benevolent object for which this premium system is
devised, but also for the experience which many of them
undoubtedly possess in all the circumstances and pecu-
liarities of English country life. I could quote a letter
which I lately received from Mr. Hope, of Fenton Barns,
in East Lothian, a well known Scottish agriculturist, con-
demning the practice — which is altogether opposed to the
general feeling there — of money rewards for long servi-
tude, and so on; but it would be said that he does not
\inderstand the circumstances of English village life,
and being altogether ignorant of the kind of feeling out
of which this practice has arisen, of course his opinion
ought not to influence us. This cannot, Jiowever, be

said of many an English opponent of the plan— some of
whom, I hope, are present now — and I will be bold to
say it cannot be truthfully said even of myself. I have
had the good fortune to know something of many Eng-
lish farmers, in various grades of intelligence and wealth,
from the small occupier up to the leading tenant in a
parish. I don't know where any happier picture of in-
telligent and useful social life could be obtained than was
for many years presented in a quiet country village, not
far from where I lived, where the leading occupier — and
therefore the leading man in the parish — was an enter-
prising agriculturist, in extensive business, gaining
prizes at the local and the county shows — a wise and
kind-hearted master too, winning the affections as well
as securing the services of his men, and a Christian gen-
tleman, influencing for good his equals as well as his in-
feriors. Those who were fortunate enough to be fre-
quent visitors at the hospitable old court-house, which
was the residence upon his farm, cannot be called igno-
rant of the character of English country life, as it is when
at its best. This gentleman was, I suppose,- the advocate
of the money rewards for good conduct in labourers — at
least, I have, on looking over some old society books
within the last two or three days, seen his name as re-
commending labourers for such premium ; but I am
quite sure it was bis personal character alone that made
that village what it was — his personal character, and that
of his family, and not the influence of the society whose
rewards the labourers received, thatmade them what they
were and are. I am afraid you will think that in making
this allusion I am running away from the subject, but I
have referred to this instance simply in order to show
that it is not in ignorance of the relationship of master
and servant, as seen in many an English farm, that I
hold the opinion I have expressed on the impolicy of
these prize lists of many an English society. I will now
state my objections in succession. (1.) The first pro-
bably would be to money rewards or material advantages
of any kind as excitements to moral improvement. Of
course the morality of any conduct depends altogether
upon its motive ; and if you say that it has been with the
view of gaining this £Z, £2, or £1 reward that such a
man has supported his impotent father, punctually
attended his parish church, or abstained from crime, or
even retained his place upon the farm, or struggled on
without parish relief, then I say that, compared with an-
other who has done none of these, he is not necessarily the
better man of the two. If you say this money is not
offered as a prize for competition, but as a reward in ac-
knowledgment of services rendered, then I would reply,
first, it is in effect a prize, for candidates appear, and a
few only are successful ; and, secondly, unless it be a
prize, i, e., unless it act as a stimulant to good conduct
in others, it is utterly useless. For this is the professed
object of the society, the promotion of industrious and
moral habits among the labouring population. (2. J Let
me say, too, that I think this supposed object is not suffi.
ciently kept in view, to the entire exclusion of every-
thing else, by some of the societies whose rules I have
read. It is not altogether clear, from some of these
prizes, that the interest of the occupiers, as much as of

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

the labourers, has not been the leading motive in the
offers made. It is a very good thing for the labourer,
no doubt, to strengthen the independent feeling which
shall lead him to avoid parish assistance ; but the offer of
money to him with that end in view, and that too by an
association of rate-payers, must, at the best, be a very
doubtful method of attaining it. (3.) It may be a good
thing (I do not think it necessarily is) to encourage
labourers to remain for a length of time in one place ;
but that is not to be done by a county association:
it is to be done by the master himself when he
has got a good servant, and by the servant him-
self when he has got a good master. The thing
is as merely private and mutual arrangement as
can be conceived ; and it is, I think, placing it in a
wrong position to bring it out before a public society.
It is as much a thing for the benefit of the master as
it is for the benefit of the servant ; and it is as much a
thing to the credit of the master as it is to the credit of
the servant. Let them be satisfied with their own
mutual advantage and private friendship, which are in
themselves their own true reward. If any other reward
must be given, the master deserves it as much as the
labourer ; and I was glad to see this acknowledged by
the Devon Agricultural Society, in whose report of
several years ago I read: — "To the Rev. W. H.
Arundell, of Cheriton-Fitzpaine, with whom John
Cockram has lived during a servitude of 43 years, a
silver medal. To John Cockram, aged 82, who has
lived with the Rev. W. H. Arundell, as above, and has
always been strictly honest, industrious, and sober, 1/.
10s." If Mr. Arundell and John Cockram were mutually
satisfied with their position, no reward v/as needed ; if
not, then, any merit belonging to either must have been
that of patience under dissatisfaction. That may have
been a proper subject for reward or not. (4). But even
if it was, I cannot believe that rewards of this kind,
offered to old age, can have an influence on younger
men at the age when character is forming, and wlien
alone such influences are of any use whatever. (5.)
They are not only of no use to others, but how paltry
and meagre, inadequate, and altogether unfit an acknow-
ledgment they are in the case of the individuals them-
selves, every one must feel. How many instances
might be gathered up of this. Here are some: — "To
the oldest agritultural lal:ourers, above the age of 65
years, who can show by full and well-authenticated
testimonials that they have been of good character,
Rees Hopkin, Tythegstone, 87 years of age, 3/; David
Davies, Ewenny, 81 years of age, 21. ; Evan Hopkin,
IVlargam, 78 years of age, \l. To the aged labourer,
who shall have brought up the greatest number of his
own legitimate children to the age of seven years, with-
out parochial relief, John Mathew, Laleston, 3/., having
brought up 19 children, above seven years of age, with-
out parochial relief; John Jones, Coity, 21., having
brought up 10 children above seven years of age,
without parochial relief. The society's rewards of 21.
each for long and faithful servitude: to \Vm. Little,
servant to H. N. Goddard, Esq., of Cliff House, 45
years; to Tho«. Picknell, servant to Mr. Daniel Tanner, j

of Shipton Moyne, 45 years ; to Thos. Packer, servant
to Mr. Wm. Henley, of Thornhill, 45 years; to Wm.
Harding Hawkins, servant to Mr. Isaac Salter, of
Kington Langley, 38 years :" and so on. Of course, the
men were glad enough to get the two sovereigns a-
piece ; but as to any addition to their self-respect in
receiving the money, in acknowledgment of half a
century of faithful service, or as to any influence on the
younger men around them, which these rewards are
supposed to have, I believe them to be utterly useless.
No wonder, I should say, that the competition for these
rewards is diminishing. I should think the higher of
any district when it had altogether ceased. There is no
lack of competition for prizes offered for skill in plough-
ing, or in other agricultural operations ; but there is for
those for servitude, and for not coming on the parish,
and for benevolence. I see at last year's meeting of the
Oxton (Derbyshire) Agricultural Society, 13 com-
petitors entered at the ploughing match, 10 for hedging,
but no competition existed for the prizes offered to
women for long servitude ; and although the names of
men receiving prizes under similar circumstances are
given, no intimation is given of the number of com-
petitors for these prizes. Their probable influence,
however, may be gathered from' the following terms, in
which one of them is announced : — " To the most meri-
torious labourer— 1st prize, 15s., to William Steemson,
37 years servant to H. Sherbrooke, Esq., and his pre-
decessor ; 2nd, 7s. 6d., to William Gregory, 3 years and
8 months servant to Mr. Tliurman." It is only fair to
add here, however, that I this morning received a letter
from the Rev. W. Shepherd, of Margaret Roding,
Essex, giving an account of the doings of the Roding
Labourers' Friend Society, and that they present a
striking exception to the general experience of such
societies, so far as I ha,ve seen their reports; indeed,
the whole affair presents such an extraordinary picture
of what, it would appear, may be done by means of this
kind, when under careful and attentive management,
that the notice which it deserves here would be much
better for some one who is prepared to defend such
means than from myself. He says :—

" Margaret Roding, June 3, 1854.

" I have been iu the almost sole management of the Roding
Labourers' Friend Society for 12 or 13 years, and have never
found any reason to abate the favourable opinion I have always
entertained of its beneficial operation, both upon masters and
labourers — for I do not think the effect is solely confined to the
labouring class. I think one great good has been in drawing
the employer and the employed more closely together, and
thereby more intimately identifying their mutual interests,
from which has been fostered a greater Itiudliness of feeling
towards each other, wliich has to a great extent resisted the
disassociating spirit of the age. My own fteling on the sub-
ject is borne out generally by the farmers of the district — that
the labourers are more skilful, they have a more tender regard
for character, and they value a good name, especially con-
nected with this society. I can safely aver that scarcely a
prizeman amongst us has ever been found to disgrace the re-
commendation of his master, based, as it strictly is with us, on
good moral conduct. This is our first requirement. Wanting
tlijs, all the other qunlifications are as nothing ; they are es-

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

eluded from competition. We have had, of late years, an ave-
rage of about 500 certificates yearly, and every certificate is
closely scrutinized by an open committee, before admitted to
further trial. The prizes are all given in money. In some so-
cieties tickets are given, not payable for some days ; in others,
clothes, or both. My own feeling is, money is the best,
accompanied in the principal classes with a memorial of merit.
If the man is deserving to be recommended, he ought to be
trusted that he will make a good use of his money. If not
trustworthy, the reward is a mockery. The system ip now so
generally understood and acted upon, that the preliminary
committee — the grand jury— are seldom called upon to reject
a candidate. That a spirit of emulation is excited and kept up,
is very apparent. That a man feels himself of more import-
ance after receiving a mark of public approbation, is not to be
doubted. Every prizeman becomes a public man ; and a sense
of that adds to his feelings of responsibility, that he should not
lose his elevated position. I would add, in reference to length
of service (divided into three classes, as you will see in the ac-
companying biin, we had last year in the Old Class 35 candi-
dates, whose average length of service was 35 years ; in the
Middle Class 22 candidates, averaged 21 years; and the
Youths 16 candidates, 10^ years' service. Ths previous year
presented a similar average, and this, too, after the society had
been in operation 14 years. Our prizes are distributed in the
field from a waggon, and the attendance, last year, in spite of
a drenching rain, was several hundreds of people of all classes."

I have thought it fair to read this letter, as of course I want
to obtain a victory only for the truth in this matter. My own
opinion in reference to such a case as this is, that it is the per-
sonal influence of such a man as Mr. Shepherd, and not that
of the association, that is here the really acting cause of the
success ; or if that be not strictly the state of the affair, that
at any rate it is personal and not society influence that produces
the result. It is not a county society — it includea only two or
three parishes ; the candidates are known to one another,
and to the men who are assembled to reward them ; and I can
imagioe a prize and testimony to character under such circum-
stances to be valued by labouring men, when one of a merely
oilicial character, such as would be awarded by a lot of stran-
gers, would be valueless. Be that as it may, I suppose Mr.
Shepherd's experience ought to have some influence on our de-
cision, and I tlierefore give the account as he has forwarded it to
me. It does not at all alter my opinion as to the much lower
status of the labouring man, in a district where these rewards
are sought, than in one where they would be despised. The
question raised as to the men being trusted with money rather
than clothing, I think confirms this view. It is somewhat as
if they werealotof children — good indeed, but still whomitwas
advisable to keep out of these little temptations. Certain it is, that
no rewards of such a kind, or of any kind, are offered in East Lo-
thian, for instance; where, if they were offered ~I allude to those
for large families of legitimate children, and for benevolent
attention to impotent relations, and for abstinence from parish
relief — they would be looked upon as a positive insult ; and
yet id East Lothian. Mr. Stepheuson bears this testimony to
the character of the working men : —

"Nowhere does there exist more of that community of feel-
ing and that friendship of relation which ought to subsist
between the employer and the employed than in this county.
The servants not only occaBionally suggest improvements, but
endeavour to carry out what is novel, whether in the adoption
of new implements, or of what is new in practice. On some
farais the same families^have sustained the relation of masters
and servants for at least two generations, and it may be men-
tioned, as a striking proof of the general trustworthiness of

the men, that a considerable proportion of the grain is sold bj
them in the stock markets, they giving delivery and receiving
payment. We have heard of one instance only where this
trust was misplaced, every sixpence of the money being always
faithfully accounted for."

Now of course English management must be adapted to
English circumstances, but I think it deserves the grave
consideration of the managers of our Labourers' Friend
Societies whether they will adopt a system which does, I
submit, tend to stereotype the present position of our
men, which is that of obedient and almost child-like de-
pendence where they are good, and of course, therefore,
ignorant and reckless blackguardism where they are
bad ; or whether, on the contrary, they ought not to
aim rather at the encouragement of manly self-reliance,
not only in the matter of personal support, but in intel-
lectual standing and mental independence, without which
all other sources of independence are but artificial props
undeserving of our confidence. Such are the props, in
my opinion, supposed to be erected by these prizes for
long servitude, and not coming on ths rates. I will
make a last remark on this point in answer to an ob-
jection which may perhaps be raised. It may be said,
" You are altogether mistaken in the character of these
rewards ; no one thinks of them as prizes except your-
self. They are testimonials of respect — expressions of
goodwill and gratitude — certificates of character, or what
else you please : they are not premiums or rewards for
good behaviour. A master has had a servant for years
in his own service and that of his father before him ;
sincere esteem has long been entertained for his charac-
ter, and gratitude for his services ; he looks about for
some way to express the sense he entertains of his value
as a servant, and of his character as a man ; and he finds
no way so well adapted for the purpose as recommend-
ing him to the county association which stands thus
ready to his hand. Now, in answer to that, I take it
that the gratification of the employers' gratitude, and
the improvement of the labourer's character, are
two entirely distinct objects. If I were asked to sub-
scribe to any such county association, and v/ere convinced
that the latter of these objects was likely to be forwarded
by the methods it employed, I would heartily lend what
assistance I could ; but if I were told it was a machinery
which had little more than the effect, whatever its pro-
fessed object might be, of dividing amongst a number of
members the task of expressing the gratitude of a few
of that number, I should certainly have nothing to do
with it. Surely if any one feels this gratitude he is
bound to express it himself, without the assistance of a
society. I hope that nothing that has been said will
appear as if spoken either in ignorance, or in disregard
of the real worth of character one often finds amongst
agricultural labourers, especially, I would say, amongst
those who have been long in the service of the same
family. It is because its worthiness is high above, and
altogether out of the field of £ s. d. considerations,
that I would do away with these money rewards ; and
it is because its influence is unaffected by society-
certificates of abstinence from crime, or from parish
relief (apparently the next worse thing)— of length of

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

servitude, freedom from intoxication, and so on — that I
would leave our labouring men to the rewards of con-
science, and to the respect of friends and neighbours,
as the natural and only proper testimonial — one, how-
ever, which a long and useful life will always secure
for them. There will be plenty of scope for La-
bourers' Friend Societies though all the money rewards
for good behaviour were swept away. All rewards
for skill should be retained, and for the rest they can-
not do more for the interest of the labourer than by en-
couraging enterprise amongst the farmers. If 12 tenant
farmers — Mr. Mechi's neighbours — were locked up
till they should arrive at a verdict upon the agricultural
merits of Tiptree Hall Farm ,"^ it is possible that they
might sustain some considerable length of imprisonment ;
but place 12 of the labouring men of Tiptree Hall in
that position, and I will engage their foreman shall have
their verdict ready in five minutes. There can be no doubt
that agricultural energy and enterprise is greatly for the
benefit of the agricultural labourer. That I can say
from some experience, for I will claim this credit for the
Whitfield (so-called) Example Farm, that the character
of the labourer in its neighbourhood has been greatly
altered for the better, as the result directly and indirectly
of its establishment. The blackguardism of that neigh-
bourhood is very much reduced ; the public-houses are
the places of information about that, and they will tell
you. The gamekeepers will report less poaching ; the
shoemaker, baker, and grocer make a little better living
than they used ; cottages are improved, their inhabitants
are improved as well ; evenings are spent in the allot-
ment ground that used to be spent in the tap-room ; and
friendly societies, and savings banks, and building socie-
ties have inci'eased their hold upon the people ; and yet
no Labourers' Friend Society, that I know of, has ever
done anything for that neighbourhood— no money re-
ward, that I have ever heard of, has been received by any
person in the place ; nor has any one been encouraged to
maintain his independence, by the offer of a prize to him
who should bring up the largest family without assist-
ance from the parish. The facts are these : — A greater
quantity of labour has been employed, and wages have
been paid as much as possible by the piece j and for the
rest, thanks to the wise benevolence of the late Earl
Ducie, a chapel and a school-room were erected, and day
and Sunday schools established ; and influences there were
put in exercise, compared with which, in their effect
upon the rising young men of that neighbourhood, any
system of money rewards offered, whetlier for servitude or
independence, can be little better than a mockery. Apart
from the strictly agricultural societies, I would regard
the British and Foreign School Society and the National
Society, and probably the Emigration Commission, as
the best societies which had yet been seen. They have
all had a hand in the alteration for the better which the
neighbourhood of Whitfield Example Farm exhibits,
indirectly, as I have said, as the result of its esablish-
ment. I would say, in conclusion, that every Local
Labourers' Friend Society should endeavour to encourage
education within its limits ; that it should encourage the
operations of benefit societies, of savings banks, and

especially of that best of all savings banks for the em-
ployment of scraps of time, the allotment system; that
it should avoid everything having a pauperising or
dependence- producing tendency, keeping in view the
maxim which involves a most important truth in material
things, as well as in others—" that to him that hat/i shall
be given;" that on this ground it should devise means
for encouraging the payment of wages by the piece ;
that it should try to guide, and possibly to encourage
the spirit of emigration in its district ; that it should
direct its chief attention to the offer of rewards for
evidence of skill, whether in agricultural, horticultural,
or more domestic operations ; and lastly, that it should
abstain from all attempts to influence by money rewards
such matters as religious duty, benevolence, or personal
morality, where higher motives alone ought to have an
influence. I shall be exceedingly glad if any experienced
member of this society shall see his way to the proposal
of a resolution having especial reference to the last of
these points.

Mr. Acton said he wished some more practical
member of the Club had risen before he attempted to
explain the rules of Friendly Societies. Tiie gentleman
who opened the question for discussion seemed to con-
sider the policy good ; but it was a mere act of simple
charity, having no moral influence, and that money
should be given to them in the shape of wages rather
than as premiums. Now, he entirely differed with him,
because he thought we were greatly indebted to those
societies for estabhshing prudent habits amongst the
labourers, and by means of those premiums, however
small, and which the opener seemed to cast a slur upon
as being more applicable to those aged persons who
had brought up the largest number of children, than to
the young and skilful in industrial pursuits. Now, he
considered that those premiums, owing to the small
rate of wages which they earned in many counties,
formed nest-eggs for savings' banks and benefit societies,
towards a provision for sickness and old age ; and as the
gentleman had mentioned those societies, he would refer
to Mr. Tidd Pratt's book on Friendly Societies. Ever
since the year 1828 the Government had had societies
like those referred to by the opener of the question — it
did not matter what was their precise name — under their
care. The 9 and 10 Vic. ensured the payment of
money on the death of members to their wives and
families, and prevented frauds in the management of the
funds ; and the law gave also a priority of payments of
debts, in case officers of a society should become bankrupt
or insolvent ; and enrolment was very necessary, and was
about to be amended by a bill introduced by Lord
Goderich. We now come to the question of wages,
which has a great deal to do with this discussion. We
find in Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire, and Essex, wages
are 10s. a week, whilst in Dorsetshire wages are 8s.
Labour, we know, is capital, and depends upon the
supply and demand for it ; and the greatest misfortune
that could befal the labourer is a scarcity of labour, and
his consequently being without the means of obtaining
subsistence. I believe, then, although these Labourers'
Friend Societies might be better managed in some

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respects , still they have a good tendency in supporting
a moral influence, greater skill and industry amongst
them, and the present policy is good in making them
better members of the community. He rejoiced that in
Dorsetshire, as well as in some other places, wages had
now risen to such an extent, that men could live without
resorting to crime or the workhouse.

Mr. Nesbit said there were circumstances in Dorset-
shire, as regarded the question of wages, which were
almost confined to that county ; at all events, they were
not to be found in more than one or two others. The
labourers were paid to a great extent in kind. He knew
a gentleman residing about six miles from Dorchester
who compromised his wages for about lis. a week, and
he said his men were not so well off as many others ; the
perquisites received by labourers on many other farms
being more than he paid himself. He entirely agreed
with Mr. Morton on .the question of offering money
rewards to labourers. No doubt in such games as
cricket and football, in which the animal part of man
was developed, credit could be given where it was really
due : the same might be said with regard to intellectual
excellence. In these cases nearly every man was a com-
petent judge of what the parties could do, because the
result was visible. In any intellectual pursuit, in any
pursuit requiring bodily skill, in any kind of machinery,
there was room for judging what degree of skill was
displayed. But who could say who were the PecksnifTs
or Joseph Surfaces of any particular locality? It was
impossible to award with precision a prize for religious
or moral excellence, because it was impossible to enter,
as it were, into the interior of the man, who Avhile in
appearance he was very moral and even religious, might
in fact be the very reverse. All that could be done by
pecuniary rewards was to assist men in exhibiting or con-
cealing their peculiarities of character.

Mr. Skelton said, before the discussion proceeded
any further, he wished to ascertain whether in the subject
of Labourers' Fiiend Societies they were to include local
agricultural societies ; because they were of a similar
character to friendly societies, and occupied a large share
of the attention of agriculturists.

The Chairman was very glad that this question had
been put to him ; for he had felt from the commencement
of the discussion that nine out of ten of the gentlemen
present probably did not understand the question in the
manner in which it appeared to have been understood by
Mr. Morton. He (the Chairman) certainly thought that
when they spoke of Labourers' Friend Societies, they
spoke of societies which labourers had formed among
themselves. He did not call a local agricultural society
a Labourers' Friend Society. (Hear, hear). It gave
rewards, indeed, to labourers, in the manner spoken of
by Mr. Morton ; but still it could hardly receive such a
designation. There was, however, great difficulty in
distinguishing, in this case, between societies formed
by labourers, themselves and societies formed for the
encouragement of labourers. (Hear, hear).

Mr. Morton observed that the question submitted
was the policy of societies formed by others for the pur-
pose of benefiting labourers, not the policy of societies

formed by labourers themselves for their own benefit.
In order to obtain the correct designation he went to
the societies, and asked them what they called them-
selves. He had in his hand the title, " Roding Labour-
ers' Friend Society.

Mr. Me CHI said there was a society with a similar
designation at Witham.

A Member observed that the diflference was only in
name (Hear, hear).

Mr. Mechi said he entirely concurred in the remarks
made by Mr. Morton. He agreed with him that local
agricultural societies, in off"ering rewards, should be
careful in making distinctions ; and that the money
contributed — though subscribed with the most benevo-
lent intention — was frequently not applied at present to
the only proper object, namely, the elevation of the
moral and social condition of the agricultural labourer
(Hear, hear). With regard to the distribution of re-
wards for skill, no one could doubt that the more the
labourer was stimulated by the hope of reward, the more
likely he was to be skilful in his employment. When,
however, he observed the moral, social, and educational
condition of labourers generally, he could not help
feeling that there was great need for improvement. The
condition of the agricultural labourers of a large propor-
tion of the district with which he was especially con-
nected presented many sad features. They were offer-
ing rewards for good conduct ; but, as education was
wanting, the labourer had no means of obtaining a good
social position. The grossest ignorance prevailed among
agricultural labourers. This was one point to which the
Labourers' Friend Societies should devote their atten-
tion ; for it was quite clear that no man could be a better
friend to the labourer than he who endeavoured to fit
him for being a more intelligent servant in his own
neighbourhood, while he would at the same time be
qualifying him for other occupations in other districts to
which the improved law of settlement would enable him
to apply himself. To show the necessity for exertion
in this direction, he would mention that in his own
parish, which comprised five or six thousand acres, the
total amount raised for education had been £\b per
annum. While a threepenny road-rate yielded £80,
£\b was all that was raised for educational purposes.
The evil of the want of education was not confined in its
effects to the labourer : it reacted on the farmer. The
more ignorant the labourer was, the less available would
he be for improved farming operations. They were put-
ting up new improved machinery, and adopting steam
on their farms ; and unless the labourer had his condi-
tion improved by education, he would not, in times like
these, be able to do justice either to himself or to them
(Hear, hear). He felt strongly on this point. He felt
that they too often began at the wrong end, and that
if the object of Labourers' Friend Societies was to be
affirmed, they must pursue it by right means. He agreed
with Mr. Morton that the investment and diffusion of
capital in agriculture had a tendency to improve the
morals of the people. On this point he could speak
practically ; for he knew that in his own district crime had
of lute been reduced below the average in other districts.

THE FARMER^S MAGAglNB.

Mr. R. Baker fully concurred in the observation of
Mr. Mechi, that m this part of the kingdom they hegan
at the wrong end in the attempt to effect a reformation
of their labourers. No doubt, the proper mode of
proceeding would be to give them a good and sound
education in the first instance ; and then, when they
were introduced to works of manual skill, give prizes to
those who best achieved the work they were called upon
to do. Whatever encouragement could be given in that
direction would be sure to return in tenfold advantage
to both master and man. Without condemning the
exertions of well-intentioned persons, like the excellent
clergyman vvbo had effected so much good in the Roding
district of Essex, knowing, as he did, that rev. gentle-
man, and the great reformation he had been the
means of producing in the district, he must, never-
theless, be permitted to say that he had always
doubted whether it became any human being to take
upon himself to reward a man for his moral conduct —
the performance of that which was simply a duty to his
family, his neighbour, and his country (Hear). But
he vfould look upon such rewards rather in the light of
stimulants to others to pursue the path of duty ■ and
whatever was done with that view, whatever was done
with the praiseworthy motive of advancing the general
interests of society, and especially that portion of so-
ciety which was so little able to judge for itself, except
by the outward application of rewards and punishments,
although it might not be placed exactly in the right
position, or pursue its end by the best possible means,
he should be the last to censure or condemn (Hear),
lie further agreed with Mr. Mechi that, if the sums
annually spent by these societies in the award of prizes
to persons who came under the general denomination of
labourers were applied to the education of the children
of those who competed for them, an incalculable
amount of benefit would ultimately be the result. Let,
therefore, the sums which were now given in reward
for moral conduct, or particular displays of skill, be
applied to the production of a better-educated, more
intelligent, and efficient class of labourers. Let
the funds which were expended in one direc-
tion be diverted to the other ; and if they were not
adequate for the purpose, then call upon the govern-
ment and the legislature to lend their assistance towards
the achievement of this most commendable aim. It was
a notorious fact, and one that was disgraceful to the
country, that the lower classes universally were not suffi-
ciently educated, whilst the vast majority of agricultural
labourers were scarcely educated at all. He did not
deny that a few attended parish schools, and learnt to
read ; but time enough was not allowed them to obtain
the amount of information which was necessary to enable
them to discharge the duties of their calling, low as it
was, in comparison with that of the skilled labourer, the
artizan, and mechanic. But it was often said by farmers,
if you educate the labourer you unfit him for his station
in life, increase his wants without furaishing him the
means of supplying them, and render him discontented
with his position. He (Mr. Baker) differed from this
opiaion in Mo, He believed, on the coiitrary, that by

educating him they would draw out his capabilities, and
make him a better and more skilful workman, and a
more reflective, intelligent, and moral man. His influ-
ence for good would be felt around him, and thus a
higher principle would be generated and diffused
amongst the whole of the labouring portion of the com-
munity. In his (Mr. Baker's) neighbourhood, the
moral character of the labourer was such, that if one of
them committed a theft on his employer, all the others
connived at it, and endeavoured to screen the offender.
Tills was a most distressing thing to reflect upon ; but he
knew it to be a fact. In contrast with this state of
things, the conduct of the agricultural labourers of
Scotland stood out in bold relief. A few years ago he
had a Scotchman to manage his farm, who assuied him
that his labourers took every opportunity of robbing
him, and that all connived at the practice 3 and he
added that, in Scotland, among the labourers to whom
he had been accustomed, if one man were detected rob-
bing his master, or doing aught else that was illegal and
improper, the others would at once insist upon his being
removed (Hear, hear). He (Mr. Baker) also found
that the men invariably combined against a bailiff who
happened to be rather strict in superintending and con-
ducting the affairs of the farm. Not having been pre-
sent in the room when Mr. Morton's paper was read,
he could not venture to express any opinion upon his
statements ; but he entirely agreed in what Mr. Mechi
had said, and that farmers must look to obtain a better
educated class of labourers before they could expect
their efforts at improvement in other respects to be
attended with the desii'ed success (Hear, hear).

Mr. B. Webster said, as regarded education, he
wished to observe that, having had to employ some
hundreds of labourers at different periods, he had found
a large number of them almost useless because they had
never attended a school of any kind. As to the price of
labour in Dorsetshire, ho could confirm the statement
made by Mr. Nesbit. The other day, being in company
with a farmer in that county, he mentioned to him the
current report that only 7s. a week was paid to labour-
ers. The farmer called to him his shepherd, who was
close at hand, and said to him that he had altered his
plan, and was going to give him 15s. a week instead of
paying him in the manner that he did then. The man
said — " Please, sir, 1 hope you wont !" Throughout
the county of Dorset, he believed, there prevailed a
system of payment by perquisites.

Mr. Shearer said a similar system existed in Wilts.
As regarded Labourers' Societies, or Labourers' Friend
Societies, in his own neighbourhood almost every parish
had two or three societies of that description. The
point to which he wished especially to direct attention
was, that in the last twelve years there had been several
failures for the want of enrolment (Hear, hear). It was
highly expedient that all such societies should be en-
rolled, and that the rules should be properly framed, by
which means the misfortunes which had arisen in his own
district might be avoided.

The Rev. Mr. Twells said he concurred in the
opinion of the opener of the discussion, that it was much

tHE FARMEH^S MAGAZINE.

better to educate the child than to reward the old man
who was sinking into the grave ; and he believed that an
enlightened regard for their own interest would induce
farmers to educate the children of labourers. The manu-
facturers were perfectly aware of the benefit which re-
sulted from attention to this matter, and were doing
everything they could to improve the moral and religious
character of the operative class by promoting the educa-
tion of the childreu ; and, in his opinion, farmers would
consult their own interest, as well as that of the labour-
ing class, by encouraging the moral and religious educa-
tion of the poor in their several neighbourhoods. It was
a slow process, but an easy one, and it went to the root
of the matter (Hear, hear). He also thought that the
establishment of good friendly societies— by which he
meant clubs enrolled according to Act of Parliament,
in which the savings of the provident labourer rested on
a good and secure basis, and were treasured up for his
old age or sickness, or for bis widow and children after
his decease — was a most excellent mode of benefiting
and raising the condition of the labourer (Hear, hear).
Residing as he did in an agricultural district, he had ob-
served a marked superiority in Scotch labourers ; and
this he attributed entirely to the circumstance of their
having received a superior moral and religious education
(Hear, hear). How was the defect to be supplied .' The
blame was not to be thrown on the Government; for it
was only the other day that a Government Bill for improv-
ing the education of the poor in Scotland was rejected in
the House of Commons. If the condition of the labour-
ing class was to be improved, it must bo by means of
liberal contributions in aid of their moral and religious
education. That would have a much greater effect in
raising their condition than anything else ; and his own
experience tended to show that there were good school-
masters and good schoolmistresses. The poor were
disposed to make great sacrifices in order to send their
children to school (Hear, hear).

Mr. CfvEssingham said he was living in a district
(Croydon) which was partly agricultural and partly
manufacturing, and where great efforts were being made,
in which the farmers co-operated, to improve the educa-
tional condition of the poor. He thought that exertions
were being generally put forth for that end ; and he should
be sorry if trom what had passed that evening the inference
was drawn that in the opinion of the club little or nothing
was being done to educate the agricultural poor (Hear,
hear). The idea that by educating the labouring classes
you made them worse servants, had now almost died
away (Hear, hear). It had been observed that they
could not produce moral and religious conduct by giving
rewards. He admitted that in the abstract that view
was correct ; but it must be recollected that example
had its effect (Hear, hear). By bringing a man out, as
it were, in bold relief before his fellow -creatures, they
might create a desire to imitate him ; for those who saw
him would be sagacious enough to know why he was
thus brought forward (Hear, hear). It was, in his
opinion, useful to set a man up as worthy of receiving a
testimonial of approbation. It was very desirable to
collect statistics with regard to the persons who ob-

tained these rewards. As far as their appearance went,
he had often been struck with admiration.

The Chairman said he must declare his conviction
that too little importance had been attached that evening
to the system pursued by what were called agricultural
societies towards the labouring population of the king-
dom (Hear, hear). It might be that in the case of the
old men referred to, no great good was effected in a
moral point of view ; but it must be recollected that the
object of such societies was to reward the skilful (Hear,
hear). They had in these societies rewards of different
kinds. They had rewards for drainage, rewards for
hedging, rewards for sheep-shearing, rewards for shep-
herds who brought up the greatest number of lambs.
He believed that all these rewards acted as a stimulus,
and did a great deal of good ; and he should be sorry if
Mr. Morton's remarks that evening created an impres-
sion elsewhere that they had done no good at all (Hear).

Mr Morton intimated that he had not meant to pro-
duce such an impression.

The ChairmxVN thought his remarks had that ten-
dency (Hear, hear). He did not mean to say that it
was intended, but some of the allusions assumed so
ironical a form that he feared that such might be the
result ; and, as one who was much attached to a society
of that description, he could not refrain from giving ex-
pression to his feelings on the subject (Hear, hear). He
did not find fault \^ith Mr. Morton, who had peculiar
views on some points, and had, no doubt, brought for-
ward the subject with great talent; but he thought that,
while they were considering the improvement which
might be derived from one source, they ought not to
overlook that which had been derived from another
(Hear, hear). On behalf not only of the society with
which he was immediately connected, but also of others
in his neighbourhood, he begged to claim credit for the
best intentions in this matter (Hear, hear) ; and to show
that in the case of deserving individuals age had no mo-
nopoly, he begged to say that, in his district, after an
individual had received a reward he was not allowed to
present himself again until after the lapse of a
certain number of years. If at the end of that period
he were still a deserving person, he might receive another
reward. From Mr. Morton's remarks, it might be sup-
posed that some of the rewards were a mere premium
for getting children (laughter). He used the expression
advisedly. Those, however, who had lived near an agri-
cultural village must be aware that there was a class of
persons who, at a certain period, seemed always to come
to the parish for relief ; and it was well that societies
should show them that it was their duty, if possible, to
maintain themselves and their families by their own ex-
ertions, and to keep independent of the parish. In this
way, he had no doubt, rewards had a good tendency.
At all events, the motive was good, whatever might have
been the effect. He had made these remarks becuuse
he had thought there was a danger that agricultural
societies would be considered rather at a discount from a
report of the proceedings of that evening (laughter).

Mr. Morton said he highly approved and com-
mended the motive by which the egricultural societies

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

were actuated in granting these premiums. But, whilst
he fully sympathized with them in their object, he
thought they employed mistaken means in order to its
accomplishment.

Mr. Skelton, as a practical man, living in a purely
agricultural district, could bear testimony to the im-
mense good that arose from the present system of con-
ducting agricultural labourers' societies. The annual
meeting of the society in liis neighbourhood was uni-
versally regarded as the most interesting event in the
year. Employers and employed assembled together in
one room ; the prizes were awarded, the minister of the
parish addressed the audience ; and the influence of the
proceedings was, he believed, deeply felt by all classes
of the population (Hear, Lear). That he took upon
himself to assert, as the result of his own observation.
Much good was undoubtedly produced — there was no
use in denying that. He could not, therefore, see the

wisdom or propriety of indulging in any censure of tlie
societies upon the subject. If there were a better way
of effecting the same object, let it be adopted.

Mr= R. Baker then moved, and Mr. Body seconded,
the following resolution :

" That this meeting is of opinion that the object of all
Labourers' Priend societies should be to obtain the utmost
advaucemeut in the general couduct, skill, and ability of the
labourers ; that the efforts of such societies should be directed
to the establislitnent of a belter system of education than at
present exists ; and that they should offer suitable rewards to
those who attain to the greatest proficiency and skill in their
respective avocations."

The resolution was agreed to unanimously ; and a
vote of thanks to Mr. Morton for his able paper, and
another to Mr. Pain, as chairman, terminated the pro-
ceedings.

STATISTICS OF AGRICULTURE

The Government sometime since was announced
to be well satisfied with the result of the partial
attempt made to collect the statistics of agricul-
ture. Of the several systems resorted to in carry-
ing out this experiment, none can be associated
with anything like a failure. The feeling of the
country was, in fact, far too favourable to the pro-
ject to suffer it to fall, however imperfect or ill-
devised the machinery with which it was intro-
duced. There has been but little, though, to com-
plain of, even here; and the point would now
appear to be only which is the best of the many
methods, either tested or suggested ? It has al-
ready been our office to call attention to some of the
more able of the latter. It may be not out of place
in turn to give a little consideration to such plans
as have been tried, with the further improvements
which those who have been first engaged in using
them would propose to adopt.

In the object so far obtained, Scotland unquestion-
ably enjoys the greatest share of success. The
experiment in that part of the kingdom may from
the first be recorded as something very like a
perfect one. This may be attributable to one of
two causes, or rather, perhaps, to a happy union
of the two, The machinery employed may have
been better, or the people better inclined to work
it. In England, as we know, after much threaten-
ing and great talking, some few gentlemen were
actually found with sufficient strength of mind to
refuse to bring ruin on their heads by filling up
the papers sent them. We thus arrive at a
two or three per cent, deficiency, that was
certainly made the most of at the time; and
example always has some eftect, particularly

when it has to act on a man's fears, and those fears
of the most indefinite character. In Scotland, on
the other hand, there was no such impediment to
deal with. As Mr. Hall Maxwell tells us — and we
are almost afraid he is speaking generally of both
England and Scotland—" all the leading agricultu
rists throughout the country were at one on this
point" — as to the advantage, that is, of collecting
these statistics. Happily, too, in the north at least,
there were no rebels, but all cheerfully and confi-
dently following these " leading" men. The Scotch
farmer had no fear as to anything which might
arise from supplying the information asked of him.
The trial was, then, as we have said, a perfect one,
and the establishment of a general system of sta-
tistics in that part of the kingdom a natural conse-
quence.

This was officially announced by Mr. Hall
Maxwell, at a meeting of the Ayrshire Agricul-
tural Association. Few of our readers will re-
quire to be reminded that the especial thanks of
the community are due to this gentleman, for
the energy and ability he has displayed in manag-
ing the diflFerent districts — the three counties in
Scotland, that is to say— placed under his superin-
tendence. To him we have to look for the exposi-
tion of the most perfect system yet tried, and it is
to this exposition as given to the members of the
Ayrshire Society, and St.Quivox Farmers' Club, that
we would now call attention. Mr. Maxwell, as we
have intimated, does not stay to expatiate on the
advantages of these statistics to the farmers ; he
takes it for granted they are " all at one" on this
point. Others, too, it would seem are equally " at
one," as to the benefits which would follow their

THE FARMER^S MAGAZINE,

collection. Small indeed though the demonstra-
tion they have made, it appears

" That, duriug the last tea or twelve years, every govern-
ment which had been at the head of affairs in this country,
no matter what its political opiuions may have been, no
matter what differences existed between individual members
of these goverumeuts on other subjects, on this point they
were all at one — they all recognized the immense advautage of
having such a system instituted. He (Mr. Maxwell) had himself
corresponded with Lord Clarendon and Mr. Mihier Gibson,
■when they were presiding at the Board of Trade ; and they were
both alive lo the importance of the subject. So also was Mr.
Labouchere, President of the Board of Trade under Lord John
Kussell. Mr. Healey, president of that board in Lord
Derby's administration, would have promoted it had he been
longer in power; and Mr. Cardvvell, who held the same
opinion as his predecessors, had last year given it an experi-
mental trial in Roxburghshire, East Lothian, and Suther-
land."

Mr. Cardweil has no reason to reproach himself
for any temerity in making a beginning. The part
was but a short prologue to the whole. Mr. Max-
well " could not refer to these trials without ex-
pressing his gratitude to the farmers of these
counties, to whose co-operation and assistance the
success of these trials was chiefly to be attributed.
Indeed, it was impossible that the object sought by
Government could be gained at all, unless they had
the co-operation, good-will, and assistance of the
farmers." They have all these, so far at any rate,
and the result is, " that the inquiry this year is to
be carried over the whole of Scotland." It is
rarely, we must say, that we have seen a plan in
which any harsh collision with the sympathies of
the farmer has been more carefully guarded against,
or his very prejudices more nicely dealt with.

" The whole machinery was formed on the principle of avoid-
ing anything like an inquisition into private affairs. He would
describe the process. When he had succeeded in making up
a list of all the farmers in Scotland, or he would say, all the
farmers and occupants of laud in the county of Ayr, every
one of these would receive a printed schedule. They would
be put to no expense in the matter ; all they had to attend to
was to fill it up as speedily as possible, and return it to hira.
The schedule would not inquire how many bolls of wheat, or
how many tons of potatoes they had laised within the year,
nor anything that could bear on taxation. He asked A B
what was the total acreage of his land ; how many acres he
had in wheat, how many in barley, oats, beans, peas, potatoes,
and so on. Beyond that no question was put to any farmer,
and even that was not published ; it came to him confidentially.
They were also asked to state the number of their horses,
cattle, and sheep, subdivided so as to let them know what
was breeding and what was feeding stock; but without
putting any question to any sheep farmer as to how much
wool, or how many lambs, he had in the year. These were
the only questions that would be asked of individual farmers,
and the answers were to be sent to the Highland Society's
Office, addressed to him, and he would treat them as quite
confidential; no official but himself would be aware of their
contents. In the trials of last year the schedules were col-
lected by officers in each district ; but it was found to be a

laborious process, and moreover the farmers were as wdhng
to send the information direct to himself. Accordingly, this
year they just sent a schedule to each farmer to fill up, asking
how many acres wheat he has, how many acres potatoes, and
so on, for the purpose of making an estimate of the produce.
He took this county and parcelled it out into districts ; and,
as an instance, he would take the parishes in Carrick district.
He had a roll of all the farmers in these nine parishes, and
from the whole returns, he ascertained that there were say
1,000 acres of wheat in that district. Now all that came out
to the public was, not that A B had so much, but that in that
district there were 1,000 acres of wheat."

Here, in our opinion— one we have repeat-
edly expressed in commenting on other systems
suggested — all direct interrogatory to the farmer
should stop. A knowledge of the breadth of land
sown with any particular crop is the great point to
be arrived at. Many are the methods for proceed-
ing after this. Farmers are to strike their own
averages — paid commissioners are to travel the
country, and so on. Mr. Maxwell, without going
quite directly to him, would still make the farmer
his chief, if not his only agent. We must confess
that, for general use, we cannot but consider this
the least promising part of his machinery. It ia
not all who will share the enthusiasm of the
director.

" They would have a committee in the Carrick district —
taking it as an instance — that committee consisting of one oi
more farmers from each parish. That committee would
have a convener called the enumerator. It would be the duty
of that committee, before and during harvest, to keep their
eyes upon the crops in their respective parishes, and to hear
what the opinions of their neighbours were on the subject.
After thrashing began, the enumerator would call a meeting
of the committee at a convenient time. As every gentleman
came with his note, they would consider and decide how many
bushels of wheat per acre weight ; and the enumerator would
transmit the result to him. He would then write in his notes
that a committee called together had found that the average
produce of wheat per acre was, say 35 bushels. He had al-
ready got in his book that there were so many acres grown
in that district ; and he then sent information to Government
that in district No. 1, being Carrick, 35,000 bushels of wheat
had been grown. Now, he defied any man to say there was
any disclosure of piivate affairs there ; or that the returns
would be instrumental in taxation, even supposing Govern-
ment was inclined to make such a use of them."

It is but fair to add that this has already the
approval of some of the " leading" agriculturists in
Scotland, although scarcely in the specific terras
in which Mr. Maxwell details his arrangements.
At a recent meeting of the Kelso Farmers' Club,
Mr. Dudgeon, of Spylaw, the president, read a very
elaborate paper on the subject, in which he thuti
refers to this branch of it : —

" It was then wisely arranged, in our last year's experiment,

that only the acreage extent of the distribution of his

possession, as regards crops and grass, should be required

from the farmer. The produce, you know, was left to be

I afterwards estimated by parties acquainted intimately with the

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

locality. In thia there is uotbing obnoxious, or that can be
called inquisitorial. And while I think no other plan will ever
recommeail itself to the farmer, I am satisfied a nearer ap-
proxi'iiation to truth, as to the amount of produce, will in this
way be obtnined than if the estimate was left to be made by
the farmer himself. But the enumerator must be a person
■well acquainted with the locality, and with the nature of the
soil and maDa^:ement pursued in the district in which he is
called upon to act."

"We may borrow a word or two from this same
practical authority, Mr. Dudgeon, as to the advan-
tages his own class may derive from furnishing
these statistics. Speaking of the possibility of
supplying our own people, and establishing a
"profitable occupation," Mr. Dudgeon declares that

"To effect this end aud maintain this superiority, I know
of nothing that can better contribute than the speedy diffusion
of correct information, as to the result of the ditferent modes
of operation pursued iu various parts of the country, by the
publication of agricultural statistics. It is in this respect, then,
it has appeared to me, that agricidture cannot fail to derive real
bsnefit from the information embraced in st.ilistical returns of
our pgricultural produce. Much, we lincw, is effected by
example and a wholesome rivalry ; and hence one great use of
having set before us right infcrmation, not only as to our
neighbours' progress, but the disparity in productiveness ^hich
exists iu different districts of our own kingdom."

Because, as he adds, like Mrs. Candour in the
play, always most terrible when most truthful —
"Agriculturists are a people who remain much at
home, and are somewhat limited in their range of
vision ; and it is notorious that they have never
either acted in concert, nor have they possessed
any mode of united communication for the general
good."

The Ayrshire Agricultuial Society and the St.
Quivox Farmers' Club carried unanimously a reso-
lution signifying " how fully alive they were to the
benefits which agriculturists as a class v/ould ob-
tain from the scheme proposed by Mr. Maxwell,
and giving their best support to the measure."
Mr. Dudgeon, quite as much an enthusiast in his
way, " was listened to with marked attention " by
the members of the Kelso Farmers' Club ; and
" his views appeared to meet with the general ac-
quiescence of the members present."

Farther north, then, in any case, we are " all
at one" as to the advantage of agricultural
statistics.

In the particulars of Miscellaneous Estimates, just dis-
tributed by Parliament, is the following item : — For agri-
cultural statistics, to be collected in the three kingdoms, the
sum of £13,000 is required. There is to be a "complete
system" in Scotland, carried out through the medium of the
Highland Society; a "complete system" iu Ireland, under the
management of the Board of Public Works ; and in England
there are to be " further experiinsnts," imder the superintend-
ence of the local officers of the poor law.

Sir John Wahhftm has made a further report on the subject

of agricultural statistics, from which it appears that he and
Mr. Hall Maxwell (representing the Highland Society) have
agreed upon the form of schedule that should be sent to
occupiers, and generally upon the mode of proceeding. They
agrea that the inquiry should be at first confined within the
siLtiplest limits, aud not elaborated by questions calculated to
excite the distrust, and so the opposition of the farmers. They
propose that the distribution of crops and the amount of stock
throughout Great Britain should be ascertained on the 1st of
July ; that the estimates of the produce per acre, to be pre-
pared by the enumerators of the Scotch districts and the
statistical committees of the English unions, in respect of the
harvest, should be lodged with the superintending authority,
by whom the results of such harvest would have to he calcu-
lated, between the 20th of October aud 20th of December ;
and that the Board of Trade should publish the estimates
before the Ist of January. Sir J, Walsham believes that iu
England the Poor Law organization supplies the best agency
for obtaining these statistics, and that a vote of 15,OO0L
would suffice to remunerate the cfKcials for their trouble, and
defray the expenses. The English vote to be proposed,
however, stands in the miscellaneous estimates at only 4,000(1.
for " further experiments."

The following remarks on this important subject we take
fro.Ti the money article of the Times of Friday last : — ■
" Arrangements continue in progress for the establishment of
a system of agricultural statistics, and a supplementary report
has just been presented by Sir Johu Wahham, stating the
conclusions regarding the best methods for its introduction to
which he has been led by his recent experimental inquiry in
Norfolk, as v/eil as by that conducted in some counties of
Scotland, by Mr. Hail xMaxwell, on the part of the Highland
Society. Sir John still considers that the agency of parish
officers and boards of guardians will be the most effective ;
and ho eatimatea that by this means the whole work might be
performed, as far as regards England and Wales, for an anirual
sum of 15,000?. It is pointed out that boards of guardians
necessarily comprise a considerable proportion of the leading
agriculturists throughout the country, while union officers are
well known aud generally acceptable to all classes within the
district for which they act, aud, as a body, are most intelligent
and trustworthy ; and that, if this organization w'ere made
available, nothing more would be needed than for the Board
of Trade to delegate the undertaking to the Poor Law Com-
missioners. The other agencies that have been suggested are
the employment of the collectors of assessed taxes, the con-
stabulary, or tne registration officers ; but it is contended that
the first two would be unpopular, and that the last have not
the same intimate standing with the occupiers of land aa that
possessed by the Poor Law functionaries, to whom, moreover,
the machinery of their existing duties is already mainly con-
fided. In each case, too, the expense would be greatly in-
creased, and perhaps doubled. In relation to the points to
which the system shculd be directed, it is agreed that the
inquiry should be at first confined within the simplest limit?,
aud not elaborated by questions calculated to excite the
opposition of the farmers, aud also that the distribution of
crops and the amount of stock should be ascertained on the
same day throughout Great Britain, and that the 1st of July
would be the most convenient period for this simuKaueous
operation. It is fdso coiisidered thst the estimates of produce
per acre should b3 lodged with the person by whom the
results of the harvest would have to be calculated during ths
two months ending the 20lli of December; end that the pub-
lication of these estimates by the Board of Trade should take
place, if possible, before Christmas, or, at all events, between

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

the 20th of December and the 1st of January. Finally, it is
stated, with reference to the feeling with which agriculturists
regard this scheme of colleztiug agricultural statistics through
the agency of boards of guardians and their officers, that a
general opinion in its favour seems to prevail among practical
men. Under these circumstances, looking at the critical
influence which the next harvest must have upon all the
commercial and financial interests of the country, it is to be
hoped that no obstacles will be permitted to prevent the entire
system being put in force during the present year.

AVERAGES OF WHEAT.

Sir, — I send you a statement of the yearly general
average of wheat from 1816 to 1828, and the highest
and lowest average prices each year from 1829 to 1854,
with the state of the harvests from 1816 to 1854. That
I may not be charged with j^irating, I beg leave to in-
form you I copied the statement of the v.'eather from the
Liverpool Courier newspaper, the general yearly average
from 1816 to 1828 from Messrs. Sturge and Co.'s yearly
circular, and the highest and the lowest yearly averages
from 1829 to 1854 from the Liverpool Mercury, who
had inserted it from the Corn Inspector's account, i. e.,
a tabular statement, according to Act of Parliament.
So faithful is the account of weather and harvests, that
very many in the corn trade will at once bring to mind
the facts and circumstances caused thereby. I do not wish
to make a political question out of it ; but there is one
remarkable feature in it, and very observable through-
out— that after fine weather and good harvests corn was
always cheap, both bafore and since the abolition of
what is called protection duties ; and that since then
prices of corn rose higher after bad harvests in less time,
and remained longer so than formerly ; but perhaps this
may have been caused by some unforeseen circumstances
which the framers of the bill never contemplated.
I remain, Sir, your obedient servant,

Thomas Tipping.

Liverpool, May 30, 1854.

The yearly average price of Wheat, from 1816 to 1828 inclu-
sive, and from 1829 to the present time, 1854, with the
harvest weather, and highest and lowest average price of
Wheat in each year —

General
Years. State of the Weather. yearly

average,
s. d.
1816. — Cold and wet all through ; corn sprouted ; black

loaves 76 2

1817. — July and August cold; September fine; corn

soft 94 0

1818.— Intensely hot 83 0

1819. — Hot summer; August intense 72 3

1820.— Fine and productive 67 11

1821. — Rains during harvest ; sprouted coru 56 2

1822. — Splendid weather ; abui^dant harvest 44 7

1823. — Showery and cold summer ; rained every day

in July . 53 5

1824. — Intensely hot; good harvest 64 0

1825. — Hot throutrhout ; good harvest 68 7

1826. — Hottest and driest on record; abundant harvest 58 9

1827.— Hot, but not as 1826 ; gi.od harvest 56 9

1828.— Immense rain, floods began in July; harvest

bad , —

State of the Weather.

Lowest
average

Years.

1829.— Cold stormy summer 55

1830. — Cold and wet June 55

1831. — Warui, glcamy weather 59

1332.— Moderate 51

1833. — Very fine weather ; abundant harvest 49
1834. — Hot summer; rain end of July;

abundant harvest 40

1835. — Hot dry summer ; abimdant harvest 36
1836. — Midsummer cold, dry ; harvest not

amiss 36

1837. — Severe spring; hot summer; deficient

harve.';t 51

1838. — Cold spring ; harvest not productive 52
1839. — Heavy rains ; productive harvest, but

damaged 65

18-10. — Warm ; August hot ; seed deficient. . 59
ISll.— Warm May and Juae; cold July and

August ; fine harvest in September 60
1813. — Fine spring; delicious summer; good

grain, but not plentiful 47

1843. — Fine wet spring ; fine summer; good

harvest 45

1844. — Dry summer ; no rain in April, May,

June ; good harvest 46

18I5.^Cold long winter; ungcnia! summer;
no sun in summer; harvest plenti-
ful, but bad corn 45

1846. — Spring fine; June half wet, half dry

a id hot; thunder; loss of potatoes 45
18 17.— Cold wet bitter spring ; fine summer ;
cold and wet September ; bf aus and

potatoes blighted .... 49

1848. — Winter and spring mild ; showery

harvest 47

1849. — Bitter spring ; in summer rain at

nights; day hot; good harvest.. .. 38

1850.— Cold to May ; harvest good 37

1851. — Winter mild; spring wet; harvest

precarious 35

1852, — Mild winter; cold spring; fine suai-
mer; average corn harvest; potatoes

diseased 37

1853.— Immense wet winter; cold summer;
wet July; autumn rainy; deficient
harvest in France and England. ... 43
1854. — Severe winter; great winds ; beauti-
ful spring 78

andhighest
in the year.

d. s. d.

76 0
.75 0
,75 0

63 0
,56 0

,49 G
,44 0

,61 0

,60 0

,78 0

,81 0

.73 0

.76 0
,66 0
,61 0
.56 0

0....60 0
0. ... 64 0

0. . . 102 0

0....Z1 0

0. . ..49 0
0....44 0

0. ... 43 0

0 ... 46 0

0. ... 73 0
0....82 0

GORSE OE PURZE EOU CATTLE.

Sir, — Gorse has been proved for a length of time to be a
most valuable food for cattle and horses, as a substitute for
hay. This plant flourishes upon sharp sands with a dry sub-
soil, aud yields about two tons per acre. The soil should be
cleansed aud pulverised, as the seed is best put in with the
drill, giving about 201bs. per acre.

Being aware the slug is the great enemy when the plant
just comes out of the ground, and only in its first two leaves,
aud at that time easily devoured, it is (for safety) best to
apply I2 cwts. saltpetre per acre, which relieves all anxiety
on that point. It has been proved by careful trials with a
cow fed upon gorse or furzs in November, that the yield of
quality aud quantity of cream and butter exceeded that of any
other mode of feeding. The practice has already been so bene-
ficial, that every friend of his country must wish a continuance
of its success, in which we heartily join.

Yours, &c.,
Richmond and Chandler.

E 2

THE FARMER^S MAGAZINE.

COVERED STEADINGS FOR FARMS.— LORD KINNAIRD'S EXPERIMENTS.

We have occasionally alluded to the question
of covered steadings for farms. Last Christmas
we showed how a large area might be covered in,
and the internal arrangements made portable and
moveable, so as to be easily adapted to the changing
fashions of farming practice, whether the loose box,
the shed, or the stall-feeding system were adopted;
and that almost any change might be made, if
a four-squared piece of sloping ground were fenced
in. Vrith all our knowledge, the liquid manure is
the real difficulty of the farmer; he knows not yet
what to do with it. To save it, and cart it away, is
manifestly a costly mode of disposing of it; to
make compost heaps near it is very costly, and
terribly expensive of horse and human labour.
Few can irrigate with it ; nor will those, who can,
be at the expense of making the pipes and. hose
necessary to spread the water-refuse. Box-feeding
will preserve a little ; but the open yards, the ma-
nure cleaned out of the pigsties, the stables, and
the various out-offices of the farm, will be found
exposed in most places for a very long period to the
effects of the atmosphere.

We must not, however, forget locality. In some
l^laces hardly too much rain falls ; in others almost
all the soluble parts of the manure are regularly
washed out. Still water is far easier let out upon
the manure if it run any risk of being too dry,
than to stop an overilow of liquid if it exists in
excess.

But we believe few animals will not make as much
liquid as will keep the manure quite sufficiently
wet in almost all situations ; and as a covered
steading will always prevent a vast amount of eva-
poration quite inseparable from an open yard, we
think it will not be found in practice to be so
very objectionable on the head of want of moisture.

We must bear in mind, however, that there is
more than manure to think of : there is the health
of the animals to consider ; and it will be found
necessary to have the means of a very full ventila-
tion, as well as the power of opening or closing
different parts of the building at different periods
of the year. Shelter and air will thus be combined;
and if the animals, so often loose in our yards, with
their fat and muscle washed off by the rain, and
blown away by the winds, can be thoroughly shel-
tered, and kept at the same time in a state of equable
temperature with ample ventilation, a vast saving
of animal food will be accomplished. The mode
of patching one building to another should be at
once and for ever abandoned, and the tendency of

all improvements must be to cover in the whole, and
then a little boarding or Scotch fencing fixed in
lengths can be made in the inside, so as to give the
complete command of space, of situation, and of
change in arrangement to the farmer.

How many new buildings are found inconvenient
for future working, which at the time of their
erection were really thought perfect ! The barn,
for instance, has been placed so as to be near the
stackyard ; and the straw has been to carry over
the ^vhole foldyard, because it was far from the
cattle-sheds; or a set of cowhouses have been erected
in simple reference to a root-house, whileaboihng-
house ought to have been there instead of at some
other corner, involving the transit of the whole
food for the animals over yards and yards of dis-
tance, creating miles of travelling in the course of
a season. But with covered steadings and tempo-
rary internal arrangements, the whole may be
modified and re-arranged in a day.

We must give a word of caution on the .new state
of things this will bring upon the farmer. He
must not imagine he can confine animals in such a
close atmosphere v/ithout providing some mode for
the escape of the foul gases attendant on close
rooms. He must have double ventilation. First,
there must be doors at regular distances along the
bottom of the buildings, for the pure air from
without to drive off the heavy carbonic-acid gas
breathed by the animals ; and there must be, as well,
top ventilation, to let off the lighter but no less
destructive gases ; and a little peat charcoal and
frequent lime-washings may be much more neces-
sary than they are even now. And how easy it is
for a farmer, if he pleases, to have a camera inserted
in the roof, and so bring down to a looking-glass or
a table in his sitting room a view of all that is doing
in his farmyard both by his serrants and his stock !
The command of the "master's eye" could be re-
gulated in no other way so completely.

Lord Kinnaird has made some very valuable
experiments on the manure part of the subject,
with grain and potatoes, which arc well worth con-
sideration. He planted 20 acres with potatoes,
partly with covered and partly with uncovered
dung, or rather dung produced under the above
two circumstances, and measured two lots of each.
Of the dung which had been uncovered the pro-
duce gave —

Tons. cwt. lbs.

1 st rneasurement— 1 acre gave 7 G 8

2nd ' do. do. 7 18 99

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

showing that very nearly an accurate plot had been
selected. The covered dung potatoes were also
weighed in a similar manner, and something very
extraordinary resulted. The

Tona. cwt. ibs.
1st measurement — 1 acre gave. ... 11 17 56
2nd do. do. ' 11 12 2G

Wheat followed this crop, and 3 cwt. per acre of
guano were applied to the whole field. The un-
covered dung plot produced —

Grain. Straw.

Bush. lbs. St.of 22lb.

1st acre 41

2nd acre 42

152

160

The covered dung portion was again successful,
almost in the same ratio as before.

1st acre 55 5

2ad acre 53 47

220
210

The weight per bushel, however, was in favour
of the vmcovered dung, the average of that being
61 5 lb., of the covered dung only 61. Half a pound

per bushel is not, however, of such vast importance
compared with 10 to 14 bushels per acre more corn
and some one-third more straw per acre, and may
be possibly accounted for on the principle that the
smallest crops often yield the lieaviest weighing
corn.

We are sorry not to observe in Lord Kinnaird's
covered sheds any apparatus for low ventilation,
nor do we think the top ventilation by any means
sufficient. We would also strongly urge the ne-
cessity of trapping all the drains, so that the ani-
mals may not be constantly subject to the confined
escapes from perhaps the whole of the liquid resi-
duum, putrefying and sweltering in some confined
tank.

Mr. Fisher Hobbs has given the estimates and
details of two covered homestalls, the one proposed
to cost £1052, and the other £1166. We are sorry
that some much less expensive were not at first
selected, because it is quite possible, we are certain,
to erect useful covered buildings with temporary
internal fittings for half these sums.

PROGRESS OF MECHANICAL SCIENCE IN THE CONSTRUCTION
OF AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENTS.

Sir, — The period wben tiie annual and national
testing of implements by the Royal Agricultural So-
ciety is publicly carried out being close at hand, leads
naturally to a reference to the Society's reports on the
exhibition of implements at the Gloucester meeting of
the last year. The three main features of mechanical
progress in the reports may be considered as embraced
by the reaping-machine, the steam-engine, and the
combined thrashing and dressing machines ; marked
progress being also shown in other implements of farm
economy.

First, in regard to the reaping-machines, much
would appear to be left to the future in perfecting them.
This opinion is supported by the following extract, sub-
scribed to by the steward of field implements, the con-
sulting engineer, and the judges, " that, by a combina-
tion of certain elements which exist in the various
machines exhibited, there might be produced one sur-
passing anything hitherto brought before the public.
Such an implement might be made to unite the advan-
tages of simplicity in construction, greater durability,
lightness of draught, and reduction in price, with the
thorough capability of being more easily managed by
the agricultural labourer." This remark, the combined
opinion of observant and practical men, leads to the
inference that mechanical skill, since the last meeting of
the Society, will be found to have been directed to this
important machine, and that at the next meeting evi-
dence will be afforded of decided progress in the per-
fecting of that great desideratum, a truly effective
reaping-machine.

Secondly, as to steam-engines, Mr. Amos, the eminent
consulting engineer of the Society, in his " General
Report, " observes: "The fixed engines have not at-
tained that degree of excellence which it is to be hoped
will be developed ; and, where durability is taken into
consideration, the t)eri?ca/ cylinder will be found prefer-
able to the horizontal one." Here we have opened a
subject for grave consideration, and emanating from a
source that will undoubtedly rouse the enrrgies of
engineers to stand beyond such remarks, particularly as
the fixedengine will probably, sooner or later, among agri-
culturists, come into very extensive use. Mr. Amos also
observes, in connection with the portable engine,
" Economy in the fuel required to work tbem was
carried to a greater extent than is consistent with sim-
plicity of arrangement ; indeed, the extra expansion-
valves, double-action forcing-pumps, and a few other
details of that character, which formed a part of t'le
arrangement of some of the engines exhibited, are super-
fluous, and render the implement too complicated for
the farmer's purpose." He further adds: — "In both
classes of engines for the farmer's use, no other expan-
sion is admissible than that which may be obtained by a
lap on the common slide." The judges of implements,
appointed by the Council, in their report " beg strongly
to recommend, for the consideration of the Council,
that in future exhibitions the superiority of one engine
over another should be considered, with regard to their
simplicity of arrangement, each part being well propor-
tioned, and easy of access and repair, combined with
steady and economical working and weight, and of course,

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

price." These remarks, the very essence of a long
series of observations, continued j'ear after year by the
Royal Agricultural Society, involve most serious prac-
tical experience, and such only as can be determined by
thoroughly practical mechanical minds — in fact, by
scientific and constructive engineers ; as that which often-
times is apparently the most complete vifill be found in
practical details somewhere or other defective : thus in
carrying out extreme simplicity of arrangement, a sacri-
fice may be made at the cost of permanent efficiency, or
for economical v7or]cing, too great a sacrifice of water
capacity of the boiler, for the purpose of obtaining a
greater amount of fire surface — or for reducing to its
minimum the weight of an engine, an inroad is made on
the mass of material which is essential for safety and
durability. Some of the earlier portable engines were
of simpler construction than those now generally made,
having horizontal and rocking cylinders fixed on the top
of the boilers, the piston-rods connected direct with the
crank, without guides or other intermediate apparatus,
with self-acting disc-valves and flued boilers, and but
little if at all exceeding the present weight of the most
improved portable engines of the present day ; yet it
does not follow that those properties constituted them
as equal to the engines now sent out by many different
manufacturers. At a recent meeting of the Royal
Agricultural Society, Mr. W. F. Hobbs, who has long
taken a very active part in forwarding the improvements
of agricultural implements, observed, " that as a steward
to the implement deprrtment at Lincoln, he should be
most happy if gentlemen who were connected with
mechanical science would throw out bints for the occa-
sion, which might prove useful to the judges in the dis-
charge of their duties." Presuming on this observation,
might it not be suggested that, previous to the trial of
the engines, their experienced consulting engineer,
either individually or in connection with other scientific
gentlemen, should first review such as are intended for
trial, and declare an opinion as to the arrangement of en-
gine and boiler, and quality of workmanship, whether
good, mediate, or indifferent, and afterwards the judges
to decide on the merits of the trials? Going a step
further, might it not be found advantageous to the
agricultural world that the Society should de! ermine,
by actual observation in the farm-yard, whether the
results obtained there accorded with those produced in
the trial-yard by the same maker's engines ? The object
might be attained as follows, selecting the makers of
such engines as had gone through the ordeal of the
trial-yard, and whose engines might be deemed de-
serving of further investigation : the said makers should
furnish to the Society references to two or more
paries who have made bona fide purchases of their
engines, and who have had the same in ordinary
work for a given time, say two or three months or
more ; then let the Society communicate with
those parties, and, selecting one of each maker's,
at an appointed time let the Society send direct to the
place their own engineer, or some other competent per-
son, wlio shall ascertain that the engine is not got up for
the special occasion ; and who shall also witness a day's

work with the engine, seeing the coals weighed, ascer-
taining the quantity of water evaporated, the amount of
corn thrashed, and the quantity of straw that has passed
through the machine, and also taking note of the condi-
tion of the straw. By this method the public would
arrive at a more correct knowledge of the comparative
merits of different makers'engines than can be ascertained
from the limited time devoted to actual operation in the
trial yard.

Thirdly, in respect to the combined thrashing, shaking,
and dressing machines, since the Gloucester show much
excitement and attention have been directed to this imple-
ment, particulai'ly in consequence of an American rival
towards the close of the year 1853 having entered the
lists as a competitor for public favour. This American
machine has led to much discussion, as to what is the
necessary strength, and how much of the weight of these
modern corapound thrashing machines maybe dispensed
with, and yet the macliine be left effective in operation
and durable in its parts. The jmlges, in their report of
the Gloucester meeting, spoke well of the machines of
several makers of this class of implements, but appended
to their report this remark — " They again call the atten-
tion of the Council to the necessity of obtaining a sup-
ply of barley in the sheaf for these trials ; for machines
that will not thrash barley without injuring it for malt-
ing purposes ought no longer to be tolerated, much less
rewarded and recommended by the Society's prizes."
This judicious remark shows the set of the current ; and
that the Royal Agricultural Society of England, regard-
less whether implements be made by A, B, or C, is de-
termined, to the best of its judgment, to direct the
mechanical skill of the country to such points in farm-
yard machinery that defects may be obviated, and a high
class of perfected implements become one of the standing
tests indicative of agricultural progress.

A Practical Mechanic.

THE CRYSTAL PALACE AGRICULTURAL MU-
SEUPvI. — An apartment ia provided iu the north wiug for the
Exhibition of Agriculture ; there will be a museum of geology,
rocks, aoilsj subsoils, and their produce. The young farmer or
aspiring student will find, beside every suit of speciaieas, in a
coloured map of the country for that particular purpose, any
district that produces limestone or mineral manure, chalk with
or without flint, marl or greea sand, and coprolite. An hour's
examination will instruct more perrectly than a scries of
lectures. If the agriculture of any one district is
required, he will find specimens with this end in view
— the manure and the implements generally used ; every va-
riety 01 the grasses and grain in seed, and of the beautiful
specimens of wheat (of which there are many in this corn dis-
trict) and their uses — flour, starch, manufactured straw, and
paper. There will likewise be exhibited the high products of
the grazing districts — cheese, wool, &c.; also stuffed specimens
of all the different sheep iu this country ; so that the farmer,
upon his visit to this scene of wonder aud delight, will find
himself at home at all his cxcitiug pursuits, and feel well re-
paid, even by this true representation of his daily toil. This
Museum of Agriculture will surpass anything of the kind iu
Europe,

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

EXPORT OF BRITISH CATTLE.

(from a subsckiber.)

I have niucli pleasure ia sendiug you some particulars of a
valuable cargo of sbort-lioriied cittle and seven Leicester
sheep, which sailed from Liverpool on the 29th May, in the
ship John Bull, for New York: Messrs. Kendall Brothers,
owners ; Captain Richardson, master. They were an order
for a lot given to Mr. Douglas, Aihelstaneford Farm, Drem,
East Lothian, by H. L. Eades, Esq., for the Unitfld Society of
Shakers, Warren county, Ohio, United States, and consisted
of six bulls, from 7 to 22 months old, and teu cows and
heifers, from 1 to 4 years of age — ranging in price from 50 to
upwards of 200 guineas. They were in hcilthy breeding ccn-
diticn, and very promising animals ; are got by the foUowitig
first-clans sires: — Crusade (7,938), Mole-catcher (10,537),
Benedict (7,828), Baron of Ravensworth (7,811), Iladibras
(10,339), Trumpeter (10,978), and Fitzadolphus Fairfax
(9,124); in short, a more choice lot could not have been
selected, nor better aJapted for a transatlantic passage.
Amongst them my attention was particularly drawn to
Crusader, by Crusade, a 1 year and 10 months old bull, and
Scottish Blue Bell, a 2 years old heifer, by Mcdc-catcher ;
being, iu ey estimation, as near as possible, tro perfect
specimens of this interesting breed.

Scottish Blue Bell, I learned, is from Mr. Douglas's
famous prize cow Blue Bell, by Captain Shaftoe, and half-
sister fo Coeur de Lion, who was sold this spring, at 10 months
old, for 200 guineas, to Mr. Mylne, of Kinaldie, Aberdeen-
shire; she has been exhibited on four occasions, and has dis-
tinguished herself by being as frequently successful, having
v/on the first prize in her class as a yearling in 1853, at the
following important Agricultural Societies' Meetings, viz. : —
The Border Union, held at Coldstream; Glasgow District, at
Glasgow ; Royal Irish, at Kilhrney ; and the Highland
Society, at Edinburgh.

Crusader has never been exhibited ; but is quite a show
bull, and will uot be easily set aside at any exhibition of stock ;
is an animal possessing beautiful symmstry, gren.t style, with
good hair and fine quality of flesh. He is own brother to the
famous heifer Purity, also bred by Mr, Douglas, in whose
possession she was never beaten, and obtained the following
prizes: — The Border Union (twice); Highland Society, at
Perth ; Glasgow District, at Glasgow ; East Lothian, at
Saltoun ; Great Northumberland, at Eelford ; and Royal
Irish, at Killarney ; and also this spring her present owner
Mr. Campion, exhibited her at the Royal Dublin Society's
Meeting, where she was awarded the firtt prize in her class;
also silver medal as the second best of all the prize breeding
heifers in the yard.

The whole of the arrangements for and the shipment of this
lot of stock was entirely left to Mr. Douglss, who was very
fortunate in his selection of the John Bull — a substantiiil
English-built ship, and a very dry sailii.g vessel, while her
deck arcomraodation is both ample and convenient. The
fittingup of the stalls and t.-appings ou deck were executed
by Mr. Hayes, of Dublin-street, who also fitted up the Bade}',
which in both cases were substantial and comfortable; the
only difference being a greater l^mgth of stall, obtained by the
additional width of the John Bull. They are provisioi'.ed for
60 days, and every precaution was taken to ensure safety and
comfort oa the voyage, I heartily wish them a safe, and
speedy passage, and notwithstanding the great risk and heavy
expense that must necessarily be incurjed by such exports,
Btill believe and hope that the spirited and most respectable
community who are in this case importing will not only be

amply repaid, but that they will reap permanent advantages
from the enterprise.

I may mention here that one of the first prize bulls,
bought by Dr. Watts and Mr. Waddle at the Royal Dublin
Society's Meeting in April last, called the Czar, is from a
heifer, bred by Mr. Douglas, named Maid of Atheos. Those
shipments of our best cattle are more likely to increase than
diraiuish, at least for some years to come; and it is not im-
probable that the result will be that, iu the long run, breedera
in the parent country will find it necessary, and to their
advantage, to select their herd bulls in the New World.

The bujiag of the best short-horned cattle for America,
together with the increased value of and demand for the best
sorts of feeding cattle at home, have of lata wonderfully in-
creased the value of really superior a limals, and this descrip-
tion are at present worth more money than they have ever
been at any former poiiod, which must have the eS'ect of
giving a direction and incentive to breeders of this most
interesting and valuable species of cattle to breed from nothing
but the very best on either side.

MR. GEO. TURNER'S ANNUAL RAM SALE was
held at Barton ou Juue 1st. The weather was delightful, and
there was a large number of agriculturists present from various
parts of Devonshire, Somerset, and Cornwall. Among th.em.
we observed Mr. S. T. Kekewich, Mr. G. Fursdon, Mr. J.
Belfield, Mr. W. R. Ciarke, the Rev. H. Palk, Messrs. T.
Kingdon, T. Potter, Elliott, Wilcocks, Gibbings, E. Archer
(Trelaske), Wippell, &e., ,&c. Mr. Turner's stock, as usual,
was in prime condition ; his cattle excited much attention, and
were enthusiastically praised by tlie agricultural visitors. Pre-
vious to the sale, a luncheon was provided, after which the
health of Mr. Turner was cordially drunk, and his merits as a
breeder were warmly acknowledgad by all the company. Hi?
breed of sheep was much commended ; and we heard many
eminent agriculturists present declare that it improved every
year. The Leicesters, it was said, were excellent "reut-pnying"
sheep, and made the most mutton and wool, in proportion to
the quantity of food consumed, of any other breed. The
results of the sale showed how much they were appreciated by
the farmers of different counties. Mr. Hussey was tiie auc-
tioneer, and, as usual, discharged the duties most efficiently.
The first ram was put up to be let. It was a splendid animal,
and was knockeJ down to G. Fursdon, Esq., for 20 guineas.
The next was let to Sir J. B. Y. Buller, for 25 guineas. An-
other very superior animal, which Mr. Turner said he intended
to exhibit at the Royal Agricultural Show, at Lincoln, was let
for 25 guineas to Mr. Anstey, of Coorahemancey. Another
was let to J. W. Buller, Esq, of Downes, for 18 guineas.
No. 10, to b2 let, was knocked down for 20 guineas, to iMr.
Burringtcn. Nos. 8 and 12 were let to Mr. O'Doghetty, of
Cornwall, for ill lis. and £3 83. The animals to be sold
were then put up, and realised good prices. The first was
described by the facetious auctioneer as a splendid ram, having
" a back like a billiard-table, as curly as a spaniel, and as hand-
some as a 'picterl'" It was sold to Mr. Roberta for £10
IO3. The sales ranged from £5 5s. to £10 10s.; and the
whole — about twenty lots — were quickly disposed of. A
couple of fine boars were then sold, the first to Mr. Roberta
f'jr 94- guineas, and the second to Mr. Hussey, for the same
sum. E. Archer, Esq., of Trelasko, purchased the third —
" The Black Prince" — for 72- guineas. Two prime yearling
bulls were offered for sile, but there were no bidders for them.
The auctioneer closed the sale by inviting the company to in-
spect Mr. Turner's prime cattle, some of which he declared
were not to be excelled in all England. — Western Times,

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

SHEEP-SHEARING.

There seems sometliiug exhilaratingtoaflock-master
ill the very mention of the season of sheep-shearing ; it
carries with it many pleasing associations, and has been
from time immemorial connected with the most inter-
esting of ancient rural festivities, whereat the master
and men, household and neighbours annually joined,
to celebrate the return of summer. We regret that
this festival, the gayest in the year, and so conducive
to promote and cement a kindly feeling between
master and workmen, should have grown into disuse.
We greatly admire the many ways that have arisen
to give encouragement to the skill and industry of
the labouring population, but we confess we should
like to see a more general return to these enlivening
and social festivals. These intimately concern every
man's holding, and, where all is conducted upon ge-
nerous and temperate principles, cannot fail to do
good — to draw nearer the ties which should bind in
amity tlie employer and employed.

Thiie of sliearing . — This has altered very much of
late years. It was the usual practice, before Mr.
Coke commenced his Holkham sheep-shearings, to
shear sheep between the 1st of June and the 1st of
August ; since the establishment of the Royal Agri-
cultural Society the time has gradually changed to
the 1st of May, and very few flocks are now left
unshorn after the first or at most second week in
July. The time should much depend upon the sea-
son and the state of the flocks : if the season is cold
and the flock in poor condition, it is better to wait
for sunny weather ; but if the v^eather is warm,
the sooner out of the wool the faster they will
thrive.

Washing. — This is almost indispensable ; the differ-
ence in value between vrashed and unwashed wool is so
great that one need scarcely point out the fact : indeed,
we should not have drawn attention to it, did not the
practice of shcariug unwashed sheep still prevail in
some hilly districts — this ought not be. The best
■wash-dikes are those containing a large proportion
of tolerably clear stagnant water, capable of being
let off and replenished at pleasure. The water in
which considerable numbers of sheep have been
washed is found to act like soap, and more speedily
removes impurities in the wool than the clear run-
ning stream. The usual mode of washing is this —
The dike is of sufficient depth to swim the largest
sheep ; a space about 7 feet square, called " the vat,"
is inclosed by a rope, or other suitable contrivance,
from this vat to the landing-place, and called " the
swim ;" the route is also confined by a similar con-
trivance, so as to guide the sheep in jiis course.

The sheep are collected in the adjoining large pen ;
they are in succession brought into the smaller or
platform pen, and from this platform they are indivi-
dually and gently thrown into the vat by the united
efforts of two men, thus — The men take hold of the
sheep on either side ; a broad strap or a piece of
curved wood prepared is passed under the body, and
laid hold of by the other ; the animal is carefully lifted,
and is somewhat gradually slidden into the water,
head uppermost. Four of the sheep are allowed to
be in the vat at onetime, " to steep or soak," during
which they are thoroughly wetted and partially
washed by the vat-man with a " poy," i. e., a thin
pole with a transverse piece of about twelve inches
long fixed on the end ; vdth this he can either thrust
them under, or draw them up, or guide at pleasure
as required. After being sufficiently soaked, which
may take from three to five minutes, they are se-
parately passed to the washer, who (standing in a
tub considerably sunk in the water) proceeds to
scrub them with his hands, squeezing the foul parts,
and turning them from side to side and occasionally
over, so as equally to scour every part ; they are
then passed down the swim, and guided out with a
poy by a lad from a pathway alongside. This opera-
tion should be finished early in the day, to give the
sheep time to dry before night.

Shearing. — This should not take place before the
wool is not only dry, but has had time to recover
" yolk " or that greasiness which appears so accept-
able to the wool-stapler. If the weather is warm,
it will do in about eight or ten days, and may be
readily known by its softness or oily nature. The
shearing should always be under cover — a barn or suit-
able hovel. A platform or clipping board, raised a few
inches, covered with a cloth, and stuffed with straw
or otherwise, is the best adaptation for the conve-
nience of the shearer and the ease of the animals
that I have seen, and is my usual platform floor. The
mode of operation pursued is as follows : — The sheep
is laid by the attendants along the platform or clip-
ping boards, with his legs towards the shearer ; the
shearer proceeds to the throat and shear the
neck, bending it towards him, and bearing it as low
as he can in its reclining position ; this done, he
gently raises the sheep on his rump, and turning
his back towards himself, he commences shearing
the wool from the breast, and, proceeding down the
belly, he lays all clear from the rotundity of the
belly, and also bares a portion of each thigh ; the
sheep is now resting on his rump, with his skoul-
der leaning against the knee of the shearer, as his

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

left foot now stands on the raised platform ; he com-
mences witli the other side of the neck, the shears
in his right hand and the legs of the sheep towards
him ; in this way he proceeds to sliear down the whole
side, taking care not to cut further than the back-
bone at each stroke or course, and to cut every stroke
of the same width and as evenly as possible. Having
bared as far down as the thigh, the sheep is again
laid down, the thigh is bared, as also the tail and a
part of the now under-thigh ; the sheep is again
raised, the shears are taken into the left hand, and
the shearing of the corresponding side is proceeded
with iu the same way; the legs, purse, &c., are
trimmed, and the sheep is "turned off" as finished.
In many districts it is customary to shear sheep
lengthwise, or partly lengthwise and partly crosswise.
I much prefer the method I have described ; and
when the shearing is done in a creditable manner,
the appearance of the animal is good and business-
like— looks far handsomer, I think, than the fanciful
diagrams pourtrayed upon the backs and sides of
many sheep one sees in the market.

Snqis or shear-cuts. — These should be immediately

dressed, to prevent bleeding, irritation, and the attack
of flies ; any simple adhesive dressing will suffice, a
mixture of lime and soot, in proportion of two-thirds
lime to one of soot. It forms a good cover for the
wound and prevents further danger. It is applied
as a dusting to the wound as soon as made.

Flies. — In some districts, flies are very trouble-
some to the recently shorn flock. Early clipping in
a late season will sometimes be an effectual preven-
tive, but not always. The little black fly, which is
by far the most annoying, does not always make its
appearance at any precise period. My usual remedy
has been the persevering appliance of soft sheep-
dung to the bitten part, smearing over the greater
part of the head of the sheep. They look dirty, but
it is an effectual preventive.

MarJcing. — This should be done at the time of
shearing. A brand made of iron, dipped in a boiling
preparation of pitch and tar, in proportion of three
fourtlis of the former to one of the latter, and applied
to the skin, is the best application with which I am
accjuaiated. It sets almost instantly, and cannot
be rubbed off.

OBSERVATIONS ADDRESSED TO THE TENANTRY OF HIS GRACE
THE DUKE OE DEVONSHIRE, WITHIN THE BUXTON AGENCY.

ON TOP-DRESSING FOR GRASS LAND.

That there is a great extent of grass land, both in meadow
and in pasture, in the district of the High Peak, capable of
being made much more productive, I think no one will venture
to deny ; and it is with this conviction that the following ob-
servations and suggestions are made. In doing so I am not
desirous to urge any one to enter upon what may appear to
them to be doubtful experimeats, or to induce an outlay which
will not prove speedily remunerative ; but all will be ready to
admit that it is to their interest to increase the quantity and
to improve the quality of their hay crops, and to render their
pastures capable of carrying a greater quantity of stock, if
these results can be obtained by an expenditure in artificial
manures, or by any other means which shall be reproductive,
and shall commence to be so immediately after being applied
or adopted.

The advantage of top-dressing grass lands, whether in mea-
dow or pasture, as well as corn crops, has now become generally
appreciated by all good farmers, as is practically proved by the
increasing consumption of guano, bones, nitrate of soda, and
other artificial manures, the demand for which at the present
time is unprecedented. This is in some measure to be attri-
buted to the great breadth of land under tillage induced by
the high price of corn, but in no small degree to the general
effort making at improved cultivation throughout the kingdom.
The part they have acted in the rapid advance of agriculture is
universally admitted.

By the use of them the produce of this country in gvain and
in roots has been within the last few years enormously in-
creased. Meadow, and second-rate pasture land, has not made
the same advance in improvement, while of their capability
there can be no doubt. Great attention is however now being

given to this object. While such marked success has rewarded
the efforts which have been directed to the improvement of
arable land, surely the high price of cattle, sheep, and wool,
present at this time powerful inducements to endeavour to
extract the same profitable results from grass laud ; and there
is no other district of such description of land in England so
capable of improvement by the use of light manures, as the
extensive upland pastures and meadows of the Peak of Derby-
shire. Their height above the sea renders the time at which
vegetation begins to move in spring generally rather late, and
forms an additional reason for supplying to the roots of the
grasses at that period the stimulus and new food which these
manures afford, operating to bring the hay-crops iu the mea-
dows to earlier maturity, increasing their bulk, and improving
their quality, and giving to their pastures an exuberance and
vigour which will show itself in the colour and thickening of
the herbage, and iu the growth of stock. They offer the best
means of bringing an upland grass farm out of condition up to
a state of average productiveness, or of raising it to a higher
level.

MEADOWS.

There are few farms, and especially grass farms, on which
yard manure is produced annually in sufficient quantities to
bring the meadow land to the greatest state of fertility of which
it is capable ; consequently much remains in a condition ia
which it cannot possibly yield a fair profit to its occupier, unless
he has recourse to some kind of artificial manure as an
auxiliary.

On large farms, the carting and spreading of dung is attended
with much labour, and a considerable saving may be effected
by supplying the fields nearest to the homestead with farm-
yard dnng, and those in more remote situations with gu:ino or

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

dissolved bones, which may be carted sad applied at very small
cost in labour, at the same time not omitting to give to snch
fields an occasional dressing of yard manure. Nothing should
induce the farmer to lessen his appreciation of home-made dung,
but to aid it by all means in his power by the use of bor.es and
guano ; but never to lose sight of endeavouring to increase the
bulk and improve the quality of this invaluable fertilizer.
This leads me to remark how little this object receives that
degree of attention which it deserves. Those who have not
witnessed the results produced will be slow to believe the great
advantage gained by protecting yard manure from the effects
of weather ; and this may to a great degree be accomplished
by simple contrivances which are very rarely adopted; too
often is the liquid likewise allowed to run to waste, instead of
restoring it to be absorbed by the bulk, of which it is the
essence.

Peruvian guano and dissolved bones are unquestionably the
best of the artificial manures, being quick in their operation,
and they are those upon which the adulterator expends his
chief ingenuity. Care therefore is requisite in the purchase of
them, to ensure their genuine quality. Not only does imme-
diate loss result to the purchaser of an adulterated article, but
he is deterred from the future use of it, and not imfrequently
ascribes the failure of liis expectations to the v.-roag cause.
The importation of guano, which in 1S42 amounted to 1,700
tons, reached in 1852 the large amount of 150,000 tons.

Peruvian guano is preferable to bones as a top-dressing for
meadow land, and two hundred weight per acre may be con-
sidered a fair quantity to apply. It is of the utmost importance
that a favourable opportunity should be selected for this pur-
pose. May is the proper time of year, and in this high situa-
tion from the middle to the end of the mouth will, in general
seasons, be soon enough ; hut it is of such vital importance
that this description of manure should be applied during rainy
weather, that perhaps no favourable opportunity at any period
during the month should be lost. The most favourable time
is at the moment when, from the state of the atmosphere, vege-
tation is just about to make a start ; but guano should never
be applied except in damp weather, so that it may be imme-
diately brought into contact with the roots, and not be left to
lie on the surface of the ground, to be evaporated by heat and
drought.

Immediate benefit is not the only advantage to be derived
from the application of artificial manures. The use of them
result in affording gradually year by year fodder for a greater
number of cattle, both by increasing the quantity and improv-
ing the nutritive qualities of it, and thereby at the same time
increasing the supply of home-manufactured manure. By
means of them the hay crops will likewise be forced on, and be
made ready for mowing probably ten days or a fortnight the
earlier — an object of great importance in the Peak.

PASTURES.

Great improvement is to be effected in the grass lands of
this district used as summer pastures, and especially in those
of inferior quality. Although at au aHitude averaging from
1,000 to 1,400 feet above the sea, their substrata of limestone,
general sufficiency and good quality of soil, and sweetness of
herbage, render them extremely healthy runs for young stock
and sheep, of which they admit of being made to carry a greater
number than they do at present.

It may be looked upoa as an invariable rule, that in propor-
tion to the natural productiveness of a soil, the effects of top-
dressing will be more or less advantageous. As the former
approaches the highest point, the latter will recede to the
lowest, For instance, if three or four quarters of bone-dust

per acre were to be applied to the rich grazing pastures of
Haddon Field, little or no benefit would result ; but apply the
same quantity to any of the land around Neu'haven, and the
improvement would be manifest. It is not too much to expect
that some pastures, now only capable of maintaining young
stock in store condition, may be made, by top-dressings judi-
ciously selected and carefully applied, to turn out stock in a
fit state for the butcher ; nor that hill-side pastures, to which
it has been hitherto found impracticable to apply lime, will be
found to admit of the profitable application of light manures.

Bones v.ill in most caaes be found to be the best and most
enduring top-dressing for pasture Isnd, For many years after
their introduction, the erroneous idea was entertained that they
should be used ia the dimensions of half-au-inch to au inch.
Chemistry has however disclosed that bones of such a size de-
compose very slowly, and that therefore, in order to obtain a
more immediate return for the outlay, they should be applied
in dust, by dissolving them with sulphuric acid. When used
in this state they are more easily and uniformly distributed on
the laud, and rendered much sooner available for the use of
plants than half-inch bones ; and when so applied, the benefit
which they are capable of affording is estimated to last for
several years, 25 or 30 per cent, of such beuefit being realized
in the first year.

Three quarters, which will average about half a ton in weight,
is a proper quantity to apply at oue dressing to an acre. If iu
any case it should appear desirable to apply a greater quantity
of bones, it would be more advantageous to do so after a lapse
of two or three years, than to lay it on at one application.

The period for applying bones to grass land varies in different
localities. Some advocate the autumn, and others the spring
of the year, as the proper season. If applied in the shape of
dust in the month of May, and during showery weather, when
vegetation is on the move and ready to seize eagerly on any
food that is grateful to it, the time cannot be wrong.

Some excellent authorities in practical farming (and among
them is Mr. Pusey) are now advocating the use of nitrate of
soda as a top-dressing for grass land, but its merits have not
been fairly tested on variety of soils, and its profitable applica-
tion must therefore be yet considered doubtful. The value of
bones and guano is established.

I have called your attention to this subject from two mo-
tives— first, because I feel it my duty to do so in the manage-
ment of the property entrusted to my charge by your noble
landlord ; and, secondly, because I am desirous to see you join
heartily in the endeavours which are being made on all sides
to arrive at a better cultivation of the soil by means profitable
to the occupiers. I have adopted this mode of communication
as being the most convenient ; and upon the above or upon any
other subject connected with the farms in your several occupa-
tions I shall be at all times willing to advise and consult with
you. I remain, yours faitlifullj',

Buxton, April 20, 1834. Sydney Smithees.

SHEEP FARMING IN AUSTRALIA.— The extent to
which sheep farming has been carried is surprising. In 1853,
about 200,000 bales of wool were scut to this country, which,
valued at £20 each, gives a total of £4,000,000. It is scarcely
necessary to point out the benefits this pastoral property crn-
fers on us. Australia furnishes double the quantity of wool
imported from other parts of the globe; and should there be a
diminution in the supply, the operation of one of the most
important branches of manufacture will be checked, and the
comforts of the public considerably abridged, — The Land
Promise,

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

APPLICATION OF STEAM-POWER TO FARMING OPERATIONS.

It may fairly be saiJ that the discussion is ended
as to whether a farmer, occupying say 200 to 250
acres of land, should or should not avail himself of
steam power. That is now a settled and deter-
rained fact, and thousands of agriculturists are
doubtless waiting to ascertain whether the steam-
engine will ever be capable of doing all his opera-
tions, instead of being restricted to those which
from being performed at home are within the or-
dinary reach of such power.

The manufacturer confines all his operations
within a space less even than is usually occupied
by the ordinary farm-buildings of a moderately-
sized homestead; but in this he has the power of
hundreds of horses and thousands of hands, per-
formed by the regular, willing, and steady engine.
The farmer, however, is restricted : he can only
apply the power of steam to a small portion
of his work. True, he can thrash and winnow,
can chop straw and bruise corn, cut turnips and
grind his flour — nay, he can even convey these,
the straw to his cattle or the corn to his granarj^,
without any very material increase of expense ;
therefore, as regards the minor operations of his
farmstead he can make steam essentially subser-
vient to his wants.

But here he stops. And yet these are but few
of the many operations of farming, valuable in
themselves, and economical of that most costly of all
things to him — his horse power; he cannot use
steam for his great operations, as ploughing, sow-
ing, harrowing, rolling, mowing, carting, stacking,
&c. In the meantime, however, he is getting his
work done pretty v/ell by some locomotive or fix-
ture, whether future invention is or is not further
to help him.

We well remember the wonder with which the
portable farm steam-engine was viewed at the
Liverpool Meeting of the Royal Agricultural So-
ciety. It was then a very imperfect implement,
and a very different one, to what is now turned out.
From that yeav (1S41), there have been vast strides
made, and the close competition and severe tests
adopted by the Royal, the Yorkshire, the Lincoln-
shire, and other agricultural societies, as well as the
vast trade done in locomotive agricultural steam-
engines, show how the agricultural mind is
opening to their advantages, and how mechani-
cal talent is being exerted to meet these wants.
Taking the twelve steam-engines of the portable
kind, v/hich were put to the test by the Royal Agri-
cultural Society at Gloucester-, last year, would it

be believed that there could one be found which
would get up its steam in 33 minutes, and for this
consumed only 31 lbs. of coal? An investigation
might perhaps determine that the economy of fuel
had no connexion with this short period of time in
getting up the steam, and that the proportionate
quantity of water in the boiler might be even less
than that in the other boilers where the average of
time in getting up the steam did not exceed 45
minutes; still the result is deserving of record.
The most surprising fact, however, was the small
amount of coal per horse-power per hour expended,
to produce which effect some of the engines, where
the economy wasgreatest,had somewhat complicated
valve gear; but a caution has now beeir properly
given to pay attention in future rather to simplicity
of arrangement, proportion, and accessibility, than
to any twopenny saving in coal ; and this is the real
light in which to look at them, after a certain mini-
mum is obtained. Selecting five of those which
consumed the smallest quantity, v/e have —

lbs.

No. 1 . consumed 4'32

„ 2. „ 4-82

„ 3. „ 5-5

„ 4. „ 6-09

„ 5. „ ........ 6"51

Now, assuming them all, for argument sake, to be
six-horse power engines, and that they worked 10
hours per day, the quantity of coals would be
(omitting fractions) —

lbs.

No. 1. consumed 259

„ 2. „ 289

„ 3. „ 3:^0

„ 4. „ 365

„ 5. » 390

Taking engine coals to be worth about 13s. 4d.
per ton, it is just 8d. per cwt. or id. per stone.
Between the highest and the second engine in con-
sumption of coal per day, assuming both to be six-
horse power engines, there is a difference of 30 lbs.
— a very small fraction short of 2d. per day differ-
ence ; while between the highest and the lovk^est on
the hst, there is a difference of little more than a
hundred -weight, and not exceeding 9d. per day
extra.

At Gloucester, Mr. Amos, the consulting engi-
neer of the Society, placed the improvement in
steam-engines in a very powerful light. The prize
engine in 1849 consumed ll'50lbs. of coal per
horse-power.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

In 1850 7'56 lbs.

1851 6.79 „

1853 4-66 „

1853 4'32 „

Fixed engines have, too, arrived at a great de-
gree of perfection in the direction in which tests have
hitherto been carried. The winner at Gloucester
consumed the smallest fraction over 6 lbs. per hour
per horse-power, nor was the second far behind it,
while the highest was but a fraction over 8 lbs. ;
and thus, whilst on one side the President of the
Royal Agricultural Society, Mr. Pusey, has written
and reasoned in the most forcible manner on the
advantages of the portable over the fixed engine,
and whose views are supported by practical men in
various parts of the country, there is a feeling
amongst others that the portable steam-engine is
faulty, and — except for job-work, for which they
are now paying too highly to those who let them
out — will ultimately be displaced by the fixture —
that the purchaser has a vast amount to pay for a
costly travelling apparatus, which might be saved

— and that a fixed steam-engine can be put
up for a price, small compared v/ith that of a lo-
comotive.

The Royal Agricultural Societj'-, which used to
give double the prize for a locomotive they did for
a fixture, have this year made them both alike, and
the Yorkshire Agricultural Society has offered £50
for a fixture at the Ripon Meeting ; but it must be
left to time and practical operations for determining
the comparative merits of the two kinds of engine?.

While on the subject of steam-engines, v\'e cannot
help alluding to the vast amount of ammonia which
is annually allowed to waste in our coke ovens.
We saw several in the county of Durham, not long
ago, where tons of ammonia are lost annually. Will
not Mr. Pease or some other skilful and scientific
man set to work to collect this valuable agricultural
compound, and so save tons of guano, instead of
allowing it to waste, and possibly in its excess to
injure the vegetation around it, which its more mi-
nute doses would so much benefit ? We hope so,
and here leave it for the present.

SHORT- HORNED CATTLE

The Short-horn, Durham, or, more properly speak-
ing, " the Improved Short-horn," is now unquestionably
established as the most profitable breed of cattle we
possess. The reasons for this are obvious enough ; no
animal arrives so early at maturity, few supply meat of
as superior a quality, while fewer still have so many re-
commendations either in appearance or disposition, for
the homestead of the agriculturist, or the domain of the
amateur. It has, however, occasionally been urged that,
in one particular, the Short-horn is deficient. By many
the breed is yet considered to be but indifferent milkers.
Perhaps the best answer to this objection would be a
walk through the establishments of our London dairy-
men. Nearly every cow tied -up here will be found of
the common Short-horn, or Yorkshire sort ; though
many, indeed, show much breeding, and are doubtless
crossed with some of our best bulls. When the aim is
to have them good milkers, they can generally be in-
sured ; on the other hand, the exhibitor at a prize-show
sacrifices one quality for the other. As the beast in-
creases in flesh, the supply of milk will decrease. It is
still quite compatible, with only due observation on the
part of the breeder, to successfully develop these two
different qualities in the same animal. A cow that in
her day may have been a first-rate milker, will, on being
put up to feed, make as good a carcass, and produce
quite as fine meat, as many animals that have never been
used for the dairy at all. But it does so happen that no
kind of cattle are so frequently prepared for public dis-
play, and hence the origin of a censure, that arises from
the treatment rather than the natural capability of the
beast. The selection baa only to be carefully made in

favour of milk or meat, and for the production of either
will the Short-horn be found eminently qualified.

It is now fast approaching a century since this im-
provement was first attempted. The change for the
better has been remarkable indeed. The originid Tees-
water, found on both sides of the Tees, together with
the still coarser kind of beast known in the East Riding
of Yorkshire as the " Holderness," was, especially the
latter, a large ungainly animal, generally deficient in his
fore-quarters, with strong shoulders, slow and unprofit-
able to feed, as well as being but a middling beast for
the butcher. The meat was coarse to the palate, and
uninviting to the eye. There was thus plenty of room,
if not much encouragement, for producing something
better ; and the task was set about with as much spirit
as discrimination by the brothers Charles and Robert
Colling. To their celebrated bull, Hubback, it is the
desire of most breeders, either directly or indirectly, to
trace back. He is in the Herd Book what Highflyer is
in the Stud Book — the foundation of our best sorts.

His origin and own pedigree is of course somewhat
difficult to trace. It may be still interesting to tran-
scribe, on the authority of Mr. George Coates, an ardent
and renowned breeder, to whom is due the credit of
having first collected the pedigrees of our Short-horns,
the following particulars of Hubback, duly signed and
dated, as will be observed, by the person from whom the
information was derived. We can couple with this the
full pedigree of the animal, as recorded by Mr. Coates,
who was a contemporary of the Messrs. CoUings.

" I remember the cow which my father bred, that
was the dam of Hubback ; there was no idea that she

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

had any mixed or Kyloe blood in her. Much has been
lately said that she vras descended from a Kyloe ; but I
have no reason to believe, nor do I believe, that she had
any mixture of Kyloe blood in her.

(Signed) John Hunter.
" Hurworth, near Darlington, July 6th, 1822."

Pedigree of IIubback,

As given in the new edition of Contests Herd Book
{Bulls), p. 52.

" HtJBBACK (319), yellow, red, and white, calved in
1777, bred by Mr. John Hunter, of Hurworth ; got by
jMr. Geo. Snowdon's bull (612), his dam (bred by Mr.
Hunter) by a bull of Mr. Bankes's, of Hurworth, g. d.
bought of Mr. Stephenson, of Ketton." Snowdon's
bull (612), we may remark, was directly descended from
the celebrated Studley bull (626), perhaps the first re-
corded Short-horn we have.

Bought, however, out of a by-lane, for eight pounds,
the fame of Hubback rests chiefly on the eye of that
judge who had the confidence to select and test him.
His success was as remarkable as it was profitable to his
owners, whose subsequent career, with his descendants —
Foljambe, Bolingbroke, Favourite, and Comet, and
their progeny again — permanently established the breed,
or variety of breed, now so widely known and celebrated
as the Improved Short-horn. What these gentlemen so
ably commenced, others were equally willing to follow
out. Amongst these we may especially mention Mr.
Maynard, Mr. Mason, Mr. Charge, Mr. Booth, Mr.
Thos. Bates, the Rev. H. Berry, Major Bower, Mr. C.
Champion, Mr. Grey, Mr. Hutchinson, Sir H. C. Ib-
betson, Mr. T. Lax, Mr. W. F. Paley, Mr. Robertson,
Mr. Smith (Dishley), Hon. J. B. Simpson, Sir H. V.
Tempest, Col. Trotter, Mr. Wiley (Brandsby), Mr.
Jonas Whitaker, and the then Lord Althorp, better
known now in agricultural history as Earl Spencer. To
these gentlemen the admirers of Short-horns owe much
indeed. At a period of great depresssion many of them
continued to persevere, and while their spirit kept up
<he value of the animal, their judgment insured the equal
preservation of its character and excellence. It is re-
mavkablo that Mr. Whitaker first took to them, and
afterwards continued to keep for a period of nearly forty
years, a large herd of Short-horned cows to supply the
people of his manufactory, a very extensive one, with
milk — a further proof, if any were wanting, of the value
of the Short-horns for milking purposes.

Mr. Bates, from Tyneside, and afterwards of Kirk-
levington, deserves more particular mention for the pains
he took in yet further maturing the breed. His labours,
too, were not without their reward. Some of his
favourite animals commanded extraordinary prices ; the
sale of the stock, on his decease in 1850, resulting in the
best general average since the time of the Ceilings.
One family, for instance— the Duchess blood that is—
realized, including young calves, ,€1,627 10s. for four-
teen lots, being an average of £116 5s. per head. To
show the value of lineal descent, it may be added that
this stock was descended from the heifer Duchess, pur-
chased by Mr. Bates at Charles Colling's sale in 1810,

nearly forty years previously to his own. Contemporary
with, or rather succeeding him, we may name, amongtt
others who have done, or who are doing, rauchifor the
breed of Short-horns, the following, distinguished in
other ways, either as practical agriculturists, or for their
judicious patronage of rural pursuits. First and fore-
most amongst them stood the late lamented Lord Ducie,
a nobleman who evinced the same spirit in supporting
and maintaining the breed of Short-horns, he so long did
in promoting the best interests of agriculture generally.
With his lordship we may honourably associate the
Marquis of Exeter, Sir C. Knightly, Sir C. Tempest,
Mr. Fawkes, of Farnley Hall, Messrs. J. and R. Booth,
Captain Barclay (Ury), Messrs. Bolden (Hyning),
Beasley, Dudding, Torr, Topham, Kirkham, Ellison,
Cattley, and Wilkinson (Lenton), all of whom have long
persevered with, and rendered themselves deservedly
distinguished as breeders of this valuable race of cattle.
Later in the field, but no less remarkable for the success
which has attended the exercise of their judgment and
outlay of their capital, we may put on record, from
amongst other noblemen, the Duke of Devonshire, Lord
Feversham, Lord Hill, Lord Burlington, Lord Zetland,
and with them Mr. Towneley, of Towneley Park, Messrs.
Ambler, J. C. Adkins, E. Bowly, Harvey Combe, A.
Cruickshanks, Rev. T. Cator, S. Marjoribanks, H. L.
Maw, R. Stratton, J. S. Tanqueray, and Jonas Webb.

There are now at least five hundred herds, large and
small, of Short-horns in this kingdom, and from six to
seven thousand head registered every alternate year in
the Herd Book. The necessity for this is greater than
might at first sight be imagined. Such a record tends
directly to preserve the character of the breed generally,
while it frequently adds to the value and repute of the
individual animal thus entered. Many of the Americans,
and other large purchasers for the foreign market, can.
not be induced to look at a beast without the breeder
has taken care to qualify him for such reference. It has
its weight too at home, where from forty to fifty thou-
sand pounds worth of Short-horned stock now annually
change hands by public auction, independent of the vast
amount sold by private contract.

The Short-horn is generally a good doer ; he thrives
equally well in almost every part of England, and was
introduced with great success by Captain Barclay into
Scotland. If we may believe all we hear, and take as
further proof the number now exported, his hardy con-
stitution and good quality by no means suffer in Ame-
rica, over the vast extent of which a great many herds,
chiefly derived from our best stock, are now being dis-
tributed. Nearer home we find the breed as highly
prized, and almost as much sought after — in France,
Belgium, Italy, Prussia, Russia, and the whole of conti-
nental Europe. Ranging out again, we see the Short-
horn annually and progressively imported into Australia,
New Zealand, Canada, New Brunswick, and, in fact, to
the majority of our colonies. This is as a pure breed ;
but, further than this, it may be said, in the words of a
very high authority, that " the Short-horns improve
every breed they cross with." Experiments are in the
course of trial with many of our other kinds of cattle,

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

the most encouraging hitherto having, perhaps, been
Yfith the Scot.

The Short-horns vary in colour, ranging from pure
while to a bright or rich red. The most fashionable of
all, however, is a mixture of the two, forming a deep or
light roan, sometimes called hazel, or strawberry.
Colour, however, should never be regarded as an objec-
tion to the real value of the animal, as the same cow,
crossed by the same bull, will often thi'ow the three dif-
ferent colours in as many calves. We are well aware
of there being some certain prejudice against white, in
contradistinction to which it may be only necessary to
state, that some of the very best of the improved Short-
horns have been white ones. Still, to correct this, or
perhaps only to act in obedience to the fashion of the
time, the red is now become more esteemed ; as from it,
when crossed with the white, is frequently produced the
most brilliant of roans.

The appearance and points of the Short-horn may be
thus briefly summed- up. The head of the male animal
is short, but at the same time fine ; very broad across
the eyes, but gradually tapering to the nose, the nostril
of which is full and prominent ; the nose itself of a rich
flesh-colour, neither too light nor dark ; eyes bright and
placid, with ears somewhat large and thin. The head,
crowned with a curved and rather flat horn, is well set
on to a lengthy, broad, m\iscular neck ; the chest wide,
deep, and projecting; shoulders fine, oblique, and well
formed into the chine ; fore legs short, with the upper
arm large and powerful ; barrel round, deep, and well
ribbed-up towards the loins and hips, which should be
wide and level ; back straight from the withers to the

setting on of the tail, but still short — that is, from hip
to the chine — the opinion of many good judges being
that a beast should have a short back, with a long frame.
As a consequence of this, the hind quarter must itself
be lengthy, but well fiUed-in. The symmetry of frame
at present to be found in a well-bred Short-horn reaches
as near perfection as possible, while few animals
" handle" so well, or to use a still more technical
phrase, have so " fine and mellow a touch," The hair
is plentiful, soft, and mossy, with a hide not too thin,
and, in fact, somewhat approaching the feeling of velvet.
The female enjoys nearly all the same characteristics as
the above, with the exception of her head being finer,
longer, and more tapering ; her neck thinner and alto-
gether lighter, and her shoulders more inclined to nar-
now towards the chine. Like most well-proportioned
animals, the Short-horn often looks smaller than he
really is. The rapidity with which he puts on flesh, and
the weight he frequently makes, are facts so well known
that it can be scarcely necessary to dilate on them here.
Still we may mention that it is no uncommon occurrence
to see steers, of from four to five years old, realizing
140 stones of .141bs. ; many ranging as high as 150
stones. Such animals frequently command from the
butcher £60 to £70 per head, while others, between
two and three years old, and of course of less weight,
make as much as ^^40 a-piece. A vast number now
realize even sooner than this, being slaughtered at two
years old, and under — another, and still further proof
of the early matuiity for which the Short-horn has long
been so justly and so widely celebrated. — Morton's
Encyclopaedia of Agriculture.

THE LAW OF SETTLEMENT.

No. VIIL

In all economical and political difficulties, nothing
is more commou tlian to find a man who tells you that
" it is the simplest thing in the world, " that the
adoption of his principle will solve the whole and
reduce the thing into order ; as if economical diffi-
culties admitted of a simple solution, as'if the consi-
deration did not, in fact, ahvays end with the ques-
tion " On which side are there the fewest evils ?"
The case before us is'a problem of this cliaracter —
the simplicity may be found in the person.

We have seen quite enough of the origin and past
history of the Law^of Settlement and Removal for
us to form a judgment as to whether any portion of
its policy may be maintained — wherein it is, in
other words, adapted to our times and sentiments.

. The original policy of the settlement law, as a law
of police, we must consider to be obsolete; and that
of the statute of Charles, so far as we can judge of
it from its preamble, is certainly frustrate ; because,
as I have shown, the " necessity, number, and con-
tinual increase of the poor, and their exceeding bur-

den," which it was declared the purpose of the li
Car. IL to remedy, proceeded at a rate that in 36
years might be called a fourfold ratio. And besides
this, it materially endangered our social fabric.

Then followed upon this, various legislation in the
supposed interests of the poor — legislation intended
or professing to mitigate the evils of removal. These,
however, were merely negative, and never positive
benefits. Like the government of more recent times,
the statesmen of those days seen:i to have tried how
little could be done consistently v/ith the fact of
doing anything.

There was some show of legislating for facilitating
the acquisition of settlement ; but if anything was
ever done to facilitate settlement, it was, I assure my
readers, on my own authority, founded upon my ob-
servation of the sentiments and tactics of the
worthies of a past century — it was quite unintention-
ally (!)• ^

(1), " Thus the four heads of settlement, by serving an office,
by payiug taxes, by hiring and service, and by apprenticeship,
often described as created by the 3 & 4 Will. & Mar., c. 11, s.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

Legislation took place also to allow of temporary
resideuce; and certificates were introduced, the effects
of which we have seen. Of later date, too, it allowed
of tlie most unauthorized practice of non-resident
relief— a practice that extended far and wide, and
took its attendant mischiefs with it, against which
the Poor Law Commissioners in their Ninth Annual
Report inveigh, terminating their report of it with
these words: " Our endeavours have been and will be
constantly directed to its diminution and gradual
extinction."

In I8tt6, we have a provision of the Poor Law
Amendment Act, 9 & 10 Vict., c. 66, making persons
who had been resident five years wholly irremovable ;
widows resident where tlieir husbands died, irremovable
in the first tvfelve mouths of their widowhood ; and
persons chargeable only through temporary sickness
or accident, irremovable on account of that cliarge-
abihty. Sufficient time has not yet elapsed to ascer-
tain fairly the effects of this provision ; bat expe-
rience leads us to a very near estimate of its
tendencies. They arc such as we can scarcely
approve, being adverse to populous places, favourable
to close] parishes, promotive of opposite interests
in parishes.

By 11 & 12 Vict., c. 110, 18-lS, the relief of irre-
movable poor was made an union charge. However
good the tendency of this provision is in itself, it is
a sure source of mischief as it stands connected
with the law of removal and settlement, being pro-
ductive of antagonistic interests in the parishes of
the same union. If we desire the good that lies in
the one element of the solution, we certainly must
precipitate and render nugatory the other. " All

6, 7, S, are falsely so described, and are, in fact, diminutions
of the larger right of settlement previously enjoyed. After de-
stroying altogether the right to make a settlement by residence,
without a notice in writing of the settler's coming:, to be pub-
lished in church, viz. — a condition in derogation universally of
the previous power to settle — the statute exempts from these
conditions three classes of persons. If it had done this un-
conditionally, it would 0!;ly have left them the right which
they had before, under the statute of Charles, and subsequent
to it till the 1st James IT., c. 17, and would have done nothing
to create a new right. But, in fact, it very grestly restrained
the old right by defining the terms of its enjoyment, and gave
occasion to all the mischief to employers and servants, and all
the litigation between parishes, which originated in the settle-
ment by hiring and service. As regards the first two settle-
ments, that by serving an office and that by paying taxes, they
both depend on inhabiting, for 40 days at least, which would
alone have sufficed to make a settlement under the statute of
Charles, without the service of the office or the pay-
ment of a tax, which are thus new conditions imposed, not
new privileges conferred." — Mr. Coode's Report.

All other definitions of settlement are so obviously and
avowedly restrictions on the pre-existing capacity, that no
doubt has ever existed as to their being made acjainst the poor,
and for the supposed protection exclusively of the parish.

these mischiefs of conflict, " says an authority, on
this question, "within a union, might have been
avoided by a union rate, and an abrogation of the
law of removal ; and, as between one union and
another, the effort to cast the poor of one upon the
other, a much less easy thing generally than for one
parish in a union to cast its poor upon atiother in the
same union, would have been met by the cordial and
unanimous adoption by the entire union, of that ad-
ministration of the law by which such an attempt
could be most securely defeated." The effects of
this ill-assorted match have already manifested them-
selves in unexampled doubt and difficulties, a mixture
that has proved a very nourishing pabulum for
lawyers.

And again, as to the creation by courts of law of
settlement, by marriage, by parentage and of resi-
dence for nurture, provisions for preventing the
separation of families— the first two have given rise
to a vast amount of legal expenses. The existing
law of birth settlement is most absurd, and involves
parishes in great uncertainty and expense. The ab-
surdity is this — " that any derivative settlement from
either parent is held to prevent that of the proper
place of birth from arising." As the law now stands,
any order for a pauper's removal to any birth settle-
ment, vv^hether his own or that of his father or mo-
ther, grandfather or grandmother, may be quashed on
appeal, by showing the birth settlement of a more
remote ancestor. The more remote, the greater is
the uncertainty and cost of proof.

Under such a view of the case, a man's settlement
is no longer the place of his industrial residence, and
is likely enough to be a place to which he is quite a
stranger. "An agricultural labourer working, since
1834, under a yearly contract of hiring and service,
from youth till old age, in the parish of his birth,
will still be settled, at seventy years of age, in an
extremity of the kingdom, in which his father may
have happened to have been born ; while , on the
other hand, a mere child, if apprenticed by parish
oflicers, and, as is generally done, so apprenticed by
them into a parish different from their own, would
even now, in ISSl*, by forty days' residence in such
parish, acquire a permanent settlement there (1),

(1). " On a recent occasion " says a learned gentleman of
the long robe, " I was counsel in a case of appeal, in which the
parish of St. J.C. (not in any union) had apprenticed a parish
pauper into St. L.M., the master having declined to take the
child by a fee of £5 provided by some charity fund in the hands
of the churchwardens. The child served and resided with his
master more than forty days in St. L M. ; fell into society like
that to which little Oliver Twist was exposed ; was charged
with felony, convicted and imprisoned. The indenture was
here upon cancelled, and on his discharge from prison, he wan-
dered back to the parish of St. J.C, within six mouths of the
day of his original binding; whereupon an order of removal
was obtained for conveying him to the parish of St. L.M., in

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

With all its mitigations, we therefore behold this
law as bad and as odious substantially as it was fifty
years ago; and as to the vauuted care that was to be
taken of the interests of the poor, we find thisisafarcc.
Subsequent legislation had in view the interests of
the parishes and the rate-payers ; aud as far as the
poor are concerned, the law in question still deserves
all the reprobation which has been, and is so justly
poured out upon it.

In my next letter I will attempt to answer certain
statements put up in defence of this law, and we may
then entertain the question, "Are there any objections
to the entire abolition of the Law of Settlement and
Removal ?"

No. IX.

When a law inflicts such injuries as those we have
contemplated upon the poor, we are inclined to in-
quire. For the sake of what advantages are these
liardships imposed? On the one hand, the working
classes are called upon to sacrifice certain right s dear
to them ; what benellts arc meted to them in return
for this act of self-denial ? or, to place it in another
light, what great economical object is gained, by so-
ciety at large, by restricting the labouring classes ?
Is compensation made to the poor for this inter-
ference with their liberties, or does society find a
recompence for the injury she submits to from the
euthralmcnt of industry ? No case can, I think, be
made out to this effect.

If industry is fettered, if the character of the la-
bourer is debased, and if the employer is denied the
liberty of option in the matter of his work-people,
then must society necessarily suffer in all its grades
by the law which originates such a sta,te of things.

But there is some mention of benefits resulting
from this Law of Settlement.

I have heard it stated that it favours the rjeneral
interests of parishes. This does not seem a very
feasible recommendation in view of the fourfold in-
crease of poor' s-ratas during the thirty-six years suc-
ceeding the enactment of the law, together with the
mass of evidence, to which I have alluded, that exists
to prove the enormous increase of pauperism that
followed immediately upon that measure which wasex-
pressly intended to diminish the number of paupers.

Others affirm that the special interests of parishes
are cherished thereby. Well, if these special inte-
rests of parishes in removals consist in a continued
series of reprisals, in which the stronger parish filches
from the weaker, and he keeps who can ; in which
artifice and fraud find a prolific birth-place, and

which, by virtue of the operation of the parish officers of St.
J.C, a settlement had been created. The appeal was against
this order of removal, which, however, on the trial, was pro-
perly confirmed, the present law undoubtedly sanctioning such
a binding,"

" bowels of mercy " are petrified ; in which the admi-
nistrative organization of the parish is diverted from
its proper uses, to be an instrument of persecution
to those it should protect ; and some five times as
much is expended in the cause of parochial rivalry
and litigation as is directed to the beneficent and
primary object of the poor laws — the setting of the
poor to work (1) — then is the affirmation true.

Again, others maintain that this law fosters the
special interests of rate-payers.

Is this effected by interfering with the relation
between employer and employed ? To most common-
sensed people such an interference would seem to
impoverish the sources of the rate-payers' wealth.
Or is it done by compelling the landlord and cottage
proprietor to reject good tenants in favour of doubt-
ful and worthless ones, by parcelling out their pro-
perty in tenements of too small a value to confer a
settlement, or by inducing estate-owners to destroy
the residences of the poor over large districts ? —
courses which as surely degrade the habits of the
labouring people as they subtract from the land a
large portion of its true value (2). Contrivance,

(1) See Letter VII.

(2) From the manner in which parishes are thus classed,
where they are ia the hands of one or two landowners, it can-
not surprise us to see that the burden of pauperism is distri-
buted most unequally. The table beneath will show, even in
two lightly-burdened unions like those of Worksop and East
Retford, both containing close parishes, out of twenty-six
parishes belonging to the former, there are two in which the
year's poor-rate aracunts to only 2d. in the pound on the rental •
eight in which it varies from 2M. to7d. ; while, in eight other
parishes of the union, where the burden of poor-rate is greatest,
it varies from Is. to 2s. Rd. in the pound.

Name of Parish or
To\TT)sl)ip.

Popula-
tion,

Census
1811.

"\Vork~op

Cnrburton

Cuckney

Horton ........

Holbeck

Langwith .....
Carlion ......

Blyili

Hadsock

Styrrup

Harworth

"Whitwell

Clown

Bailbi'o'

Elmton

Thorpe Sfllvin .

Harlhill

Anston

Woodsetts

Gildingwell ....
Dlnnington ....

Lctwell—

Firbeck .»

St. John's

Todwick

Wales

T.-Xal . -

C,12!
19!

;i62
206
4 '13
,094
7.: 8
23 >
034
546
,125
660
euo

43!
390
709
803
181
91
279
129
191

214
810

17,674

I'otil ol
year's
Amount of Expendi-

Parish
Valuation

for

Poor Rate,

1850.

ture for
Kelief of
the Poor,

ended

Lady Day,

1850.

£
24,ii42

838
1,273
1,121
1,234
1,507
4,9a3
3,4-25
4,118
3,720
4,178
4,026
2,415
6 3 0
2,038
2,409
4,803
2,313

838

507
1,160
1,153
1,492

8.'*7
1,922

834

1,667

;h5

111

288

183

154

115

173

17i

320

200

261

Proportion

in the
pound of
Expendi-
ture to
Rateable
Value.

? s. d.
0 1 \\
0 0 10
0 1 82
0 1 Oi
0 lOi

0 0 4i

0 1 IJ

0 1 Of

0 l^ 4i

0 0 9J

0 0 6|

0 0 lOj

0 1 6

0 1 0

0 0 If'A

0 0 h\

0 0 10

0 2 3

0 0

0 0
0

0 0 6J

0 0 2

0 0 54

0 0 7

£33,551 I ^£4,224 1 ;eO 1 0

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

fraud, and bribery ; bribery, fraud, and contrivance
were the only interests that were fattened by this Law
of Settlement,

With regard to that large class of rate-payers, the
farmers, such a system is most injurious. The farmer
may not hire the best labourer he can get, unless he
consents to keep, at his own expense, the drunken
idler and his sis children, whom that labourer may dis-
place. It is true that, from habit and want of reflec-
tion (and such a stigma I am glad to say is fast
passing away), the greater part of the farmers have
become thoroughly imbued with the principle that
the parish to which a man belongs, and not his ability
to work, is the first point to be considered. Even the
sense of interest has been corrupted ! (l.) But now
that the protection of the corn laws is removed, the
farmer should experience the utmost freedom, toge-
ther with the manufacturer, in the choice of la-
bourers.

Here is a law, then, that collectively impoverishes
and retards us — that individually crushes and annoys
thousands of us. It is costly to all, beneficial to none.

"Are not the interests of the poor, then," say
some, " in any way remembered and conserved ?"
And where, I reply, has there ever been a show, in
the settlement laws, of positive advantage to them ?
I may say, with Mr. Coode, in his report to the Poor-
Law Board, that "the utmost the law has ever affected
to do, is to liberate them from some hardships which
the law itself, and its abuses, had alone exposed them
to ;" for with this remark my own observation leads
me most fully to concur.

That a settlement confers a claim to relief, exists
only as an exploded fallacy ; destitution alone consti-
tutes the title to relief.

There is some talk, again, about a settlement's
proving a protection against removal. What is this,
however, but a defence against the hardship of the

(1) Farmers are often so sensible of the great benefit derived
from having near at band places of residence for their labourers,
that tbey occasionally build cottages themselves. Such, how-
ever, is the perversity of this law, that, under it, landowners
are known frequently to introduce covenants into leases, re-
stricting the farmer, under penalty, from doing any act to give
a man a parish settlement.

Keport to the Poor-Law Board, 1850, p. 50 : "Mr. May, a
farmer in the neighbourhood, showed me the cottages he had
built at his own cost ; that is to say, he had found the labour,
and his landlord had, most reluctantly, found the materials ;
for the latter was greatly averse to anything that might lead
to the making of a settlement, while the former felt so strongly
interested in having cottages for his workmen, that he had
erected two habitations at an expense of £75. His landlord;
who had been disinclined to the building of these cottages, is
not a very large owner in Caversham, but holds a considerable
quantity of property in Maple Durham, and is the same gen-
tleman who had been plaintiff in an action against a tenant, to
recover a penalty for breach of covenant, by the making of two
settlements."

law itself ? " It is merely," as Mr. Coode says, " an
abstinence from mischief, as far as relates to the peo-
ple who remain where their settlement is ; but to all
others the settlement is the sole ground of their sub-
jection to the liability to removal. In fact," he goes
on to remark, " settlement was created as the condi-
tion for removability, not as a protection against
it." And the more the labourer is provided with
the same liberty everywhere, the greater the benefit
— a benefit in no way attributable to the law, but to
the fact of a more entire abstinence from its severe
provisions.

Further, it is said that this law benefits the la-
bourer, inasmuch as it secures employment to him.
The benefit of a monopoly of the employment, and
relief in their parish, is thus given to the settled
poor. How far is this true ? Where is the mono-
poly when abundant employment attracts flocks of
strangers to share the advantage, who are purposely
encouraged by employers, to keep wages to their low-
est possible point, without gaining a settlement them-
selves? The monopoly they enjoy is tliis. When
work is scarce, and wages are reduced to the lowest
point at which body and soul can be kept together,
those who are settled in the parish find employment
in it — a privilege they enjoy over strangers 1 An
exclusive monopoly to a wretched market ! When
wages are reduced to 6, 7, 8, or 9 shillings a week,
as in any of our ten purely agricultural counties,
where the settlement law has unmitigated sway,
while in the other counties they range from ].l to 15
shillings — the man who has a settlement also boasts
the privilege which this certificate gives him of em-
ployment ! How truly thankful he must feel !

In the course of his official evidence upon the ope-
ration of the Law of Settlement in the counties of
Dorset, Hampshire, and Somerset, Mr. Revans says:
" Excepting during short and very busy periods in
agriculture, as at harvest, a working man will be
refused employment save in his own parish ; for at
all other times the rate-payers postpone the execu-
tion of work till those periods when employment is
likely to be scarce, and when the labourers who have
settlements would constantly fall upon the rates. It
is nearly useless, therefore, for a working man, with
the existing laws of settlement, to attempt to obtain
work beyond the bounds of his parish. He will be
answered with, ' We have enough to do to find em-
ployment for our own people.' Should one, however,
by the force of accident obtain employment away from
his settlement, the first occasion on which there shall
be the slightest deficiency of employment for the
labourers who belong to the parish will cause him
to be removed to his settlement." And so perse-
cuted is the poor man, that a hundred to one he pays
dearly for his rash endeavour, and presents a
daily warning to every labourer of the surrounding

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

districts, of the folly of striving to improve his cou-
dition, by leaving the parish to which the law awarded
him. Truly a valuable monopoly. At a time when
the payment of labour is so miserable that the alter-
native of the poor-house is blessed to the poor man,
in comparison with hard work and starvation abroad,
and when rate-paying employers commonly take into
consideration the respective alternatives of keeping
their labourers by a dole of rate or a dole of wages,
then is it that his settlement secures to the labourer
this boon of employment ! What mockery ! What
a bitter insult to those whom it affects to favour ! —
a cruel oppression to those at whose cost it exists !
So deeply had the framers of this law the interests
of the poor at heart, that they deprived them of the
power to range the country in search for the best
market for labour, and by way of compensation pro-
vided that a favoured one here and there may be
be protected in the exclusive possession of the worst !

No, X.

Furthermore, the defendants of this law urge that
" it keeps down population, and keeps up the stan-
dard of subsistence."

This is a curious defence for a sane person to set
up, on behalf of a law that most evidently tends to
the reverse. It is manifestly false, could it be
proved, even, that the repression of population is a
benefit. But the manner in which parishes favour the
married above the single, because when they do fall
upon the rates they fall heavier, tends directly to
drive young men to embrace that estate, that they
too may share its advantages. Young men are
incited to early marriages ; for, if there is a scanty
demand for employment, a preference is given to the
married over the single man. He knows that he
must be kept by the rates if he is out of employ,
and that it is more expensive to maintain him and
his family in the Union, than to pay him the current
rate of wages. Perhaps the advocates of this law
will tell us that in the fact that war, plague, pesti-
lence, famine, vice, and misery keep down population
to the supposed limit of the means of subsistence,
dwells the mitigation of the disasters. " To create
by law the impossibility to live, or the misery which
prevents procreation," may then be supposed to be
the proper and beneficent care of statesmen ! If
this be so, we requii-e a new moral code. I can see
in these facts only this solution— the law in question
has encouraged marriage, and perforce births, wliile
at the same time it has restricted the means of life
by generating misery and vice !

Another argument in favour ef this enactment
is, that "it diminishes gluts of labourers, and the
suffering from casual failure of employment."
_ All evidence goes directly against such an asser-
tion as this. One of the main reasons for wishing

the abandonment of the provision of this law is,
because it regulates so wretchedly the stream of
labour, and, by interfering with that natural process
by which labour always finds its level, works against
the best interests of the country, to their great
detriment ; for a labourer to be working under a
non-elastic security is very much the same as a
steam-engine driven without the merciful appliance
of a safety-valve. Give him freedom, and he will go
where his judgment or his friend tells him he has the
best prospect of living.

A yet more astounding piece of assurance awaits
us. The defendants of the law of settlement say
that " it preserves the morality and industry of the
unsettled poor" (!) The guardian of the morals of
the poor !

The amount of suffering and demoralization, the
injury of health, and the shortening of life, to wliich
the agricultural labourer and his family are exposed
from preventible causes, is even greater than that
which has excited so much sympathy on behalf of
the town population. The owners of property must
not, I allow, be too harshly condemned for the
misery thus created. The law of settlement has long
tended to stimulate into action the baser and more
sordid feelings of human nature. In seeking to
rid himself of a permanent future charge he is
tempted to be cruel and inconsiderate. He regards
little whose interests he damages, in his anxiety to
escape from such an affliction, like a man who runs
helter-skelter when a bull pursues. Many boards of
guardians have taken notice of the manner in which
the law in question interferes with the proper supply
of cottage-accommodation, and have considered this
ground amply sutRcient on which alone to seek its
abolition. The Ongar guardians came recently
to the unanimous resolution, " that the abolition of
the law of settlement and removal would be very
beneficial to the deserving labourers, by encou-
raging the owners of property to build cottages on
their estates for the accommodation of their la-
bourers ; and that the present law of settlement and
removal operates to the injury of the labourers, by
limiting the market of their laboui', and discouraging
the building of cottages, so that the poor are crowded
into miserable dwellings, at the sacrifice of health,
comfort, and morality." This is a fair sample of the
sentiments of the boards generally.

This view is confirmed by Mr. Pashley. " It is
undoubted and indisputable," says that gentleman,
" that wherever the deficiency of cottage-accommo-
dation exists, as it does so generally, it entails a
fearful catalogue of calamities on the unhappy la-
bourer and liis family. They usually become a sub-
ject of traffic to small building speculators, who
extort a high rental for a wretched hut, and who
profit by the misery and degradation of those among

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

wliom all sense of decency is destroyed, -while health
is injured, and life itself is greatly shortened by their
being crowded together, often, without any regard
to distinction of age or of sex."

Mr. Austin, one of the special assistant poor-law
commissioners, who reported on the employment of
women and children in agriculture, gives his testi-
mony to the want of cottage-accommodation, which
he states to be " a want universal." " Cottages,"
he also remarks, "have only two bed-rooms (with
very rare exceptions, and a great many have only
one). This, I was told, was not an extraordinary
case ; but that, more or less, every bed-room in the
village was crowded with inmates of both sexes, of
various ages, ami thai such a state of things teas
caused by the loatit of cottages." Mr. Austin was
informed by the agent of Lord Lansdowne, that " in
Studley (Wilts) it is not at all uncommon for a whole
family to sleep in the same room. The number of
bastards in that place is very great ; the number of
unmarried women is greater than in the neigh-
bouring places. I do not think this state of things
is attributable to the women working in the fields,
but more to the want of proper accommodation in the
cottages."

I could fill sheets of paper with the recitals made
by clergymen, of the miseries caused by this lack of
cottage room. I could furnish evidence upon evi-
dence from medical men to prove that disease is
engendered and propagated thereby ; and I need not
search long for the declaimings of landowners (1) and
occupiers (2), for they are about me on every hand.
It is not necessary, however, that I should intro-
duce them, or indulge in revolting details. The
fact must be patent to all. The consequences of a
want of proper cottage-accommodation are fearful-—
they are fatal. Erom this source flows much of the
crime that disgraces our country ; for it is mainly
attributable to the mixture of sexes and of ages in
the dwellings of the poor — a practice that debases
and demoralizes the human mind, and which, unless
counteracted, must effectually neutralize every effort
made towards the elevation or improvement of the
people. And these are as nearly as possible the
words of Mr. Justice Coleridge, when addressing a
Labourers' Priend Association. Yet we are asked
to believe that this law, which spreads a moral death
about it, preserves the morality and industry of the
poor!

By way of making this egregious blunder— not to
call it a palpable falsehood — a little palatable, the

(1) The Duke of Bedford, Letter dated 9th March, 1849,
published in the Journal of the Royal Agricultural Society,
vol. x„ pp. 185-187; Mr. Acland, on the Farming of Somer-
setahire, Journal of the Royal Agricultural Society, vol. si.,
666-764.

(2) Poor Law Reports of the Law of Settlement. 1850.

writers who defend this law urge that " it is not
very mischievotis now" And how much better does
this make the case, if true? Little or nothing.
But it is not true. So completely has the people,
by the rigorous enforcement of this law of settlement,
become conformed to it — so much has the character
of the habits and feelings of the lower orders been
moulded upon it for centuries — that it becomes ex-
tremely difBcult for us to conceive what we should
be without it. The past and present state is re-
garded by the labouring classes as the natural one.
The bulk of theui never knew any other. The terrors
of the whip and the cart are not known personally
to the labourer ; but the spiiit of subjection which
these cruelties engendered in the breasts of his fore-
fathers, is inherited by him. Prom generation to
generation has been nursed a traditional dread of
the removing constable. A freeman may more
easily comprehend the bondage to which he is re-
duced, than a born slave this freedom to which he is
remitted ; more especially when this freedom is but
relative and partial. Many instances occurred in
South Africa, when the liberation of the slaves took
place, in which those to whom freedom was given
were quite indifferent to it ; and in Jamaica, numbers
were averse to accept the boon. M. G. Lewis —
Byron's friend — to whom had fallen, by the death of
a relative, a plantation in the West Indies, went
thither with a most rooted abhorrence of slavery.
He proposed freeing his people; but when he
became acquainted with their feelings on the matter,
he saw that his offer would not be received with
pleasure, and that its results would be confusion,
sorrow, and distress. Yet no one will say that it is
natural to prefer bondage to freedom. No : it is
unnatural. The first slave wore no smile : he was,
most probably, a captive; and his spirit became
broken, and as generation followed generation, this
broken spirit passed from father to son, like an heir-
loom ; the knowledge of liberty and the love of it
was lost, and, from long association with serfdom, it
became a received opinion that there was never any
other condition for black people, nor ever could be,
than that of serfdom.

Had we never known any thing about removals
and settlements, it would be difficult, metlunks, to
trammel the limbs of the English people with such
fetters now-a-day.

If we, as Mr. Coode says, count only the number
of removals, and suppose these to be the whole
effect of the law, forgetting the comparatively
greater effect of the terror they inspire in the timid
and ignorant multitude, we may perhaps arrive at
the conclusion that " a settlement law does very
little mischief now." One might as well estimate
the number of lives saved, directly by the number of
lives forfeited for murder ; or might say that the

F 2

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

measure of popular submission to a law, is the number
of those who are punished for breaking it. Few
removals should show to a rational mind the
perfect control in which the people are held by the
law of removal.

Look, then, at the total of the pleas that can be
urged in favour of the settlement law — pleas that
have been m-ged and re-urged in some 400 different
books and pamphlets ! Small indeed is the mouse
this labouring mountain produces.

This law of removal fails universally.

It fails in the preservation of parish interests : it
fails in the preservation of the special interests of
ratepayers : most miserably it fails to protect the
interests of the poor — nothing but unmitigated
failure. Nay, I wrong it: in one thing it does
succeed, and that marvellously well. It attends
well to the interests of the legal profession. In this
it has not failed. In all other attempts to protect
and nourish, it has. P. R. S.

DISTRICT AGRICULTURAL SOCIETIES.

The very signal success at present enjoyed by
such district societies as the West of England, the
Yorkshire, the Norfolk, the Suffolk, and one or
two more, should not be without its effect. By a
happy infusion of fresh spirit and improved ma-
nagement, these few associations have really be-
come worthy of that position they assumed to take.
Extending, in most cases, the limit of their opera-
tions, they have gradually emerged from that too
local repute, that spoke only to a languishing exist-
ence, and a scarcely more than negative advantage.
The distinction to be achieved at such a meeting
was hardly worth the attention of those who were
qualified to compete for it, and thus the society
struggled on from year to year, each anniversary
promising little better to those who attended it than
that it might be the last.

There are many such institutions that may profit
by the examples we have instanced. A closely-
confined area, we are inclined to think, is with the
majority of these the great mistake. A judicious
amalgamation of the forces of some two or three
such societies might work wonders in districts
Avhere, as it is, little interest or effect is attached to
the proceedings. We have the precedent we have
already quoted to guide us here. By union, these
societies have given importance to their gatherings,
found funds equal to the objects they wished to
encourage, and excited an emulation that must tell
equally well on both exhibitor and spectator. A
premium, luider these altered circumstances, is
worth taking and speaking of; and so we have
something more than neighbour This sending in
his bull against neighbour That, in answer to the
urgent appeal of an unhappy secretary, seriously
troubled as to his day resulting in any show at all.
Taking one case from the many, we may point
to an agricultural society of this limited scope and
means, the members of which, we assume, already
think pretty much with ourselves. In the North-
ampton Herald of last Saturday, we notice the re-
port of a meeting held on the Thursday previous, at

Banbury. The aim of this would appear to have
been the resuscitation of the " Banbury Agricultu-
ral Association"; a society which, according to the
chairman of the day, " was in a very languid state,
and that, if something was not done, he was afraid
would quite fall in." This " something" certainly
strikes us as about the best thing that could be
done. Instead of attempting to go on any further
as they have gone on, the members propose to ex-
tend their sphere of action, by amalgamation with
some other similar body in the neighbourhood.
They naturally and judiciously turned at once to
the chief society of the county — that now holding
its meetings at, and known as " the Oxford Agri-
cultural Association." Some communication, it
appears, has already been entered into with the
latter, although the result, so far, has scarcely been
as encouraging as could have been desired. It is,
indeed, from seeing the obstacles likely to be pre-
sented, that we are induced to call particular atten-
tion to the conference in question.

We will assume in the first place that union to the
Banbury Society is everything. In the next, how-
ever, let us bear in mind that they cannot receive
assistance without also giving it. Like mercy, it
is a kind of aid that is " twice blessed." The
moment the Oxford Society consents to receive
Banbury into its arms, from that instant must it
add to its own usefulness and importance. We
know of few counties — and we happen to enjoy
some knowledge of this — more likely to sup-
port one good central society than the county of
Oxford. There is the opportunity for now proving
this. With the Bath thoroughly re-established on
one side of them, and Reading promising to ad-
vance on another, let not the agriculturists here be
contented with limited effects and results. Let
Oxford, Banbury, Watlington, and other district
societies, with a " pull altogether" establish one
good annual meeting, that it shall be our duty
and pleasure to attend, and to record amongst the
important gatherings of the year. They may rest

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

assured that any union like this must be for the
benefit of them all.

We are not inclined to consider the question of
funds as the great difficulty in the way of any in-
corporation of the Banbury and Oxford Societies.
With a little exertion these might soon be supplied.
The following extract from the report would seem
to show that the members of the latter were
scarcely inclined to meet their Banbury friends with
that readiness we should have anticipated :— Mr.
Cothei', who had been deputed to attend a meeting
at Oxford, said : —

That in the case of many small societies where there had
been an amalgamation, they had become exceedingly useful,
not only in respect of stock, but in the diffusion of agricultural
knowledge generally. He instanced the Bath and West of
England Society. Every good implement was to be inspected
there, which they had not the opportunity of doing here.
Again, enormous good had been accomplished by amalgamat-
ing in Yorkshire ; every one knew for 50 miles round where
to go for the best bull, horse, or sheep. He wished to ask
Mr. Middleton, however, whether, in case of an amalgamation,
the Oxford Society would object to come to Banbury with
their show every other year ; if not, it would be fatal to the
project.

Mr. Middleton thought it would be decided to the con-
trary ; the older members of the society residing the other
side of the county, round Dorchester.

The Chairman should object if that were the case. There
was an end to amalgamation unless the meeting was held at
Banbury every other year.

This of course would be fatal. One of the chief
features contributing to the success of these so-
cieties is the hint the management have taken
from the Royal Society of England. They are
nearly all peripatetic— proceeding in turn from one
part of a county or district to another, and gather-
ing fresh strength and making new friends where-
ever they turn their steps. It must be so with
any county society in Oxfordshire. Depend upon
it, no general good can come from paying continued
court only to a few " older members who may hap-
pen to reside on the other side of the county."
We would not say merely from Oxford to Ban-
bur)', and from Banbury to Oxford. There are other
localitie^s well able to entertain such a body, and
almost equally deserving to profit by, and aid in
such a meeting.

All this is very susceptible of a general applica-
tion. Too local societies we fear do too little good ;
whereas, when extended in their action, they in-
crease proportionately in their utility. Their effect,
however, as we take it, must range far beyond even
a county, or any other defined influence. We
look upon such gatherings as excellent " feeders"
to the national meetings of the kingdom; encou-
raging exhibitors to try their footing a little deeper
still, and thus giving fresh blood to a Society that
could not long exist without it.

NORFOLK AGRICULTURAL ASSOCIATION.

The annual meeting of this society was held at
Norwich on Friday, June 23. A variety of other en-
gagements compelled us to abandon at the last our
intention of being present. We have the more to
regret this, as we learn the show was a very good
one, and, in most respects, quite worthy of the
county which it professed to represent. In the
exhibition of stock the horses were thought to be
generally good, the mares and foals particularly
so — Messrs, Barthropp, Crisp, Barlow, Badham,
and others sending specimens of the breeds
for which they are become famous. Amongst
the sheep the Southdowns had the call — Lords
Walsingham, Sondes, and Leicester trying their
strength against Mr. Overman, Mr. Sexton, and
other gentlemen of hardly less rank as breeders.
The Leicester sheep were, class for class, we are
assured, by no means so good ; while with the cattle
the leaning in Norfolk is still in favour of the
Devon, despite the efforts of some most persevering
followers of the Shorthorn in a neighbouring
county.

The pens of so renowned an exhibiter as Mr.

Fairlie would alone go a great way towards making
a good poultry show; while the implement depart-
ment of the yard included the stands of Messrs.
Ransome and Sims, of Ipswich ; Burrell, of
Thetford ; Garrett, of Leiston ; Holmes, of Nor-
wich ; Barnard and Bishop, of Norwich ; Sparke,
of Norwich ; Coleman, of Chelmsford ; Campling,
of Norwich; and Turner, of Ipswich. Beyond
this, we must let the prize list speak for itself —
merely premising that the show was altogether a
fuller one than that of last year.

LIST OF PRIZES.

CATTLE.

Judges of Cattle. — Mr. Ciiriatopher Cattle, of Inker-
don, Northamptonshire. Mr. George Franks, of Thong,
Kent. Mr. Edward Frost, of West Wratting, Cambridge-
shire.

For the best shorthorn bull, £6, Mr. Thomas Crisp, Chilles-
ford. For the second best, £3, 11. K. Tompaon, Esq.,
Witchingham.

For the best Devon bull, £6, A. Hamond, Esq., Westacre.
For the second best ditto, £3, Mr. J. Blomfield, jun.,
Warham.

For the beat polled bull, £6, 11. Birkbeck, Esq., Stoke
Holy Cross,

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

For the best bull in the yard, of any breed, open to all
competitors, the Norwich cup, A Hamond, Esq., Westacre.

For the best shorthorn cow, in calf or in milk, £5, J. H.
Gurney, Esq. For the second best ditto, £3, Mr. S. Gooch.

For the best Devon cow, in calf or in milk. A.. Hamond,
Esq.'s premium of £5, the Earl of Leicester. For the second
best ditto, £3, Mr. J. Blorafield, jun.

For the best polled cow, in calf or iu milk, £5, Mr. T. M.
Hudson. For the second best ditto, £3, H. Birkbeck, Esq.

For the best shorthorn in calf heifer, bred by the exhibitor,
not imder two years old nor above three years old, W. Bagge,
Esq.'s, £5, Lord Walsingham. For the second best ditto,
£2, Mr. S. Gooch.

For the best Devon in calf heifer, £4, the Earl of Leicester.
For the second best ditto, £2, the Earl of Leicester.

For the best polled in calf heifer, £4, Mr. G. D. Badham.

For the best fat steer, of any breed, under four years old,
£5, the Eev. J. Holmes. For the second best ditto, £3, the
Earl of Leicester.

For the best fat cow or heifer, £4, the Earl of Leicester.
For the second best ditto, £2, Mr. H. K. Tompson.

SHEEP,

Judges op Sheep. — Mr. Thos. Hawkins, of Smallbridge,
near Sudbury, Suifolk. Mr. Henry P. Hart, of Beddingham,
Susses. Mr. Thomas P. Stone, of Barrow-on-Soar, Leicester-
shire.

For the best shearling Southdown ram, £5, and for the
second best ditto, £3, Mr. H. Overman.

For the best Sonthdown ram of any age, H. Styleman Le
Strange, Esq.'s, premium of £5 ; and for the second best ditto,
£2, Lord Walsingham.

For the best pen of three shearling Southdown ewes, £5,
Lord Walsingham ; for the second best ditto, £2, Mr. H.
Overman.

For the best pen of ten Southdown ewe lambs, £4 ; and for
the second best ditto, £2, Lord Sondes.

For the best pen of three Southdown shearling ewes, bred
by the exhibiter, the Earl of Leicester's premium of £5, Mr.
G. Sexton.

For the best pen of three shearling Southdown wethers.
Lord Walsingham's premium of £5 5s., Mr. H. Overman.

For the best pen of twenty Southdown wether Iambs, Sir
W. B. Ffolkes's premium of £5, Mr. W. M. Farrer; for the
second best ditto, £2, Lord Sondes.

For the best pea of twenty Southdown shearling ewes, £5,
the Earl of Leicester ; for the second best ditto, £2, Mr. W.
Farrer.

For the best shearling Leicester or long-woolled ram, £5,
Mr. P. J. Sharman ; for the second best ditto, £3, Mr. Josiah
Hill, Briston.

For the best Leicester or long-woolled ram of any age, £5 ;
and for the second best ditto, £2, Mr. Josiah Hil!.

For the best pen of three shearling Leicester or long-woolled
ewes, £4, Mr. Josiah Hilh

For the be^t pen of ten wether lambs of any breed, £4, Mr.
Utting, Stanninghall ; for the second best ditto, £2, Mr. H.
Wrightup, of Bintry.

HORSES.

Judges of Horses and Pigs. — Mr. H. Kersey Cooper,
of Euston, Suffolk. Mr. Joseph Maun, of "Rockland, Nor-
folk. Mr. Samuel French, of Great Holland, Essex.

For the best cart stallion, not under four years old, having
covered at least thirty mares in Norfolk during the present
season, £10, Mr. E. Cottingham; for the second best ditto,
£5, Mr. J. H. Holley.

For the best two years old carfc stallion, £4, Mr. Thomas
Crisp.

For the best stallion, for saddle or harness, £7, A. Hamond,
Esq,

For the best cart mare, G. P. Beutinck, Esq's., premium of
£5, Mr. N. G. Barthropp ; for the second best ditto, £3, Mr.
F. Barlow.

For the best three years old cart filly, £4, Mr. N. G. Bar<
thropp ; for the second best ditto, £2, Mr. J. Smith.

For the best two years old ditto, £4, Mr. N. G. Barthropp.

For the best cart foal, £4, Mr. G. D. Badham ; for the se-
cond best ditto, £2, Rev. J. H. Steward.

SWINE.

For the best boar, £3 j and for the second best ditto, £2,
Mr. Thos. Crisp, Cbillesford.

For the best breeding sow, £3, H. Birkbeck, Esq., Stoke
Holy Cross ; for the second beat ditto, £2, Mr. Thos. Crisp,
Chillesford.

For the best pen of eight store pigs, not exceediug four
mouths old, being of the same litter, £3, Mr. R. Gillett,
Tunstall.

implements.

Judges of Implements. — Mr. E. Blytb, of Buruham,
Norfolk. Mr. H. B. Caldwell, of Hillborough, Norfolk. Mr.
John Ferguson, of Wretham, Norfolk.

To the exhibiter of the best newly-invented implement, for
the purpose of agriculture, the utility and price whereof shall
be approved by the judges, £5, patent revolving horse-hoe,
Garrett and Son ; to the exhibiter of the second best ditto,
£3, patent universal horse-hoe, Mr. R. H. NichoUs ; to the
exhibiter of the third best ditto, £2, registered manure dis-
tributor. Holmes and Sons.

sheep-shearing.

The following obtained prizes for clippers for sheep-
sliearing: — lat, Mr. Thos. Sharpe; 2ud, Jonathan Battaby;
Srd, Thomas Shaul; 4th, Robert Gathcrgood.

The Stev/ards of the Yard were Mr. Charles Ethe-
ridge, of Starston, Norfolk. Mr. Isaac Everitt, of Limpeuhce,
Norfolk. Mr. George Read, of Plumstead, Norfolk.

THE DINNER,
Which took place at the Assembly Rooms, was attended by
about 150 gentlemen, including the Earl of Albemarle, who
presided. Lord Walsingham, Lord Berners, Lord Hastings,
Lord Suffield, H. N. Burroughea, Esq., M.P., B. Gurdos,
Esq., Wyrley Birch, Esq., Hon. B. De Grey, Hon. and Rev,
F. De Grey, Hon. and Rev, E. Keppel, W. Burroughes, Esq.,
Hon. Harbord Harbord, J. Everitt, Esq., F. Irby, Esq., Col.
Fitzroy, H. Stracey, Esq., J. B. Caldwell, Esq., J. S. Muskett,
Esq., H. E. Blyth. Esq., J. Hudson, Esq., J. Warner, Esq.,
Rev. P. Gurdon, Rev. J. W. King, Mr. F. Astley, Mr. J,
Reeve, Mr. Cattle, Mr. Frost, Mr. Nuncks, Mr. England, Mr.
J. Kendle, Mr. C. Hart, Mr. G. Eaton, Mr. J. Porter, Mr. C,
Mayes, Mr. Layton, Mr. Bagge, Mr. Thorold, Mr. W. P. Salter,
Mr. J. J. Palmer, Mr. L. Rodweil, Mr. H. Overman, Mr. G.
Read, Mr. Mann, Mr. T. M. Hudson, Mr. K. Cooper, Mr,
Barthropp, Mr. H, Overman, jun., Mr. H. J. Hitchcock,
Mr. R.Leeds, Mr. H. Kendall, Mr. J. Savory, Mr. J. Collins,
Mr. Hawkins, Mr. Stone, Mr. Hart, Mr. Wrench, Mr. Catling,
Mr. W. M. Farrer, Mr. Abbott, Mr. Fergusson, Mr. Beck,
Mr. Atkinson, Mr. H. Chamberlin, '_Mr. Seamau," Mr. S.
Sharpe, Mr. B. H. Baker, Mr. H. Baker, Mr. Oswald, &c.

We regret thatjwe have not room this month for the different
addresses of the evening, though we hope to refer to them here-
after.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

TRADE WITH RUSSIA AND OTHER COUN-
TRIES, POR TALLOW, HEMP, ELAX, AND
LINSEED.

A return has just been published of the imports, during the
last 10 years, of the various articles, exclusive of grain, which
make up the chief portion of the trade of Russia, namely,
tallow, hemp, flax, linseed, hides, and wool. From this it
appears that, as regards hemp, flax, linseed, and wool, the
quantities taken last year from Russia exceeded those of any
former year ; but that Russian tallow, ou the contrary, shows
a diminution, owing partly to the competition of Australia
and the River Plate, as well as to the increasing supply of
palm oil from Western Africa. The followiug is a comparison
of the quantities in 1844 and 1853 : —

Tallow.

1844.

Cwt.

Russia 865,381

Australia 37.415

United States . . . . 52,799
River Plate .. .. 100,617

India 3,755

Brazil 4,409

Turkey 3,000

Other parts .. .. 12,291

1853.
Cwt.

845,901

125,186

24,542

162,413

5,050

687
11,945

1,079,667 .. 1,175,754

The increase iu the supply of tallow from all parts, during
10 years, looking at the general extension of commerce, has
thus been remarkably small. The year of the greatest im-
portation was 1843, when it reached 1,498,359 cwt., owing to
the to!al from Russia having been 1,149,157. The subsequent
falling off has been chiefly from the ports in the Black Sea,
which 10 years back sent 152,312 cwt., and last year only
21,408. In the quantity from Australia the increase during
the 10 years has been very great, although the last two years
show a decline from the highest point, which was reached in
1851, when the total was 174,472 cwt.

As regards articles analogous to tallow, the imports of palm
oil, which is derived almost exclusively from the west coast of
Afric;t, have increased from 414,648 cwt. in 1844 to 636,628
in 1353. Of train oil, which is principally supplied from
North America, the totals between the two periods show
little variation, 15,838 tuns having been imported in 1844,
and only 15,757 tuns in 1833. Of spermaceti, also, the
figures have been nearly stationary, namely, 5,006 tuns in
1844, and 5,180 in 1853 ; the chief quantity being now ob-
tained from the United States, owing to a diminution in the
Aua'.ralian and South Sea supply.

Of hemp the following are the comparative totals : —

1844. 1853.

Cwt. Cwt.

Russia 655,954 .. 806,396

India 211,392 .. 320,672

Austria 15,431 .. 30,286

Prance 2,707 .. 25,368

Philippine Islands .. 14,122 .. 19,550

Other parts .. .. 13,627 .. 16,498

913,233 .. 1,218,770
Although the importations of hemp from Russia last year
vero larger than on any former occasion, the aggregate from
aU parts was not equal to that in 1851, when, owing to
590,623 cwt. Laving been received from India, the total was
1,293,411 cwt.

Of flax the following are the comparative totals : —

1844.
Cwt.
Russia 1,112,024

Prussia

Holland

Belgium

Egypt

Hanse Towns.
Other parts,. .

249,404
106,658
44,967
30,266
17,463
22,712

1853.

Cwt.
1,294,827

229,407

123,691
99,558
85,105
29,789
27,100

1,583,494 1,889,477

The above importations of flax for 1853, amounting to
1,889,477 cwt. (erroneously computed in the return to amount
to 1,902,477), are in excess of any former year, both as regards
the quantities from Russia and the general aggregate.
Annexed are the totals of linseed : —

1844. 1853.

Urs. Qrs.

Russia 448,393 .. 765,019

Prussia 90,383 .. 57,848

India 29,745 .. 151,113

Turkey and Egjpt 22,386 . . 17,523

Other parts 26,040 . . 43,827

616,947 1,035,335
These also, both as regards Russia and the general aggre-
gate, are beyond those of former years.

Of hides and wool the quantities obtained from Russia are
not of much importance, as compared with the general supply,
the number of hides imported thence in 1853 having been
only 11,115, out of a total from all countries of 750,309;
while of wool it was 9,G75,1991b. out of 119,396,4491b. Ten
years back the importation of Russian hides was 23,605, and
of wool 4,765,9571b.

Among the most satisfactory features of the above returns
is the evidence they afford that in those articles in which India
competes v.'ith Russia the comparison of progress is much in
favour of India — a course of affairs destined to be greatly
stimulated by the present war.

MEXICAN GUANO. — NEW DISCOVERIES. — It
appears that the goveriament of Mexico have recently granted
for ten years to Senor Jose 0. Ferns and others, representing
a body to be called the Mexican Guano Company, an exclusive
privilege for the exportation of guano from all the coasts and
islands belonging to that country, with the e.xception of three
islands in the Pacific known under the name of the Marias. Cir-
culars have accordingly been issued, notifying the conditions
on which it may be obtained, the professed object
of the proprietors being to leave the trade as open
as possible consistently with their own claims for
remuneration. The quality of the guano existing on the
Atlantic side of the coast has been more thoroughly examined
than that ou the other, owing to several cargoes having already
been taken thence to the United States, as well as a few to
Liverpool, and is stated to be entirely distinct from the Peru-
vian descriptions, its richness consisting in 60 per cent, of
phosphate of lime. That which exists on the islands and
promontories of the Pacific coast and in tlieGnlf of California
is described as of a more varied character, some parts which
are rainless being expected to supply high qualities, while in
others tlie description.? are inferior. Thus far, however, there
seem to be no accurate classification of the respective sorts,
nor any reliable estimates as to the quantities obtainable. The
discovery of these deposits as regards the Atlantic portion is
only of recent date. The islands containing the principal
amount are called the Triangles, near the coast of Yucatan ;
and no knowledge of the circumstance seemed to have been
possessed by the Mexican Government until very lately, when,
after two American vessels had filled there, one of them, wiih
more than 200 tons on board, was stranded in a storm on a
neighbouring point, and the matter was brought to light. —
Times.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

WAR PRICES.

In spring the Poor Law question, Agricultural Sta-^
tisties, and the influence which war was likely to have
upon agricolture and the nation generally, were topics
which excited an amount of interest almost such as
to eclipse the important operations of seedtime alto-
gether. Of these the declaration of war against Russia,
with tiie many perplexing difficulties involved in the
satisfactory and permanent settlement of the Eastern
question, certainly occupied the most prominent place
in the public mind. Groaning under the enormous load
of taxes occasioned by the last war, parties naturally
looked upon the present with some suspicion, and on
that account manifested a willingness to entertain
hopes of peace which otherwise would not have been
cherished. If Turkey, for instance, had conceded
to her christian population civil and religious liberty,
Unssia proposed to withdraw her forces from tlie
Principalities ; and therefore many, despite the arch
duplicity and cunning practised by the Czar, hoped
that some modification of this proposition would have
become the basis of an amicable arrangement through
the intervention of the German powers; others, with
too much reason, concluded that such a settle-
ment would only place the eastern question " out
of the frying pan into tlie fire,'' and that the commercial
resources of the country would be affectod accordingly.
From the animosity, for Instance, that exists between
the Greek and Latin churches, the persecuting spirit
which both of them entertain, not only towards Mos-
lems but also Protestants, the fact that Protestanism is
safer under Islamism than under the hierarchical domi-
nation of either of those churches, owing to the spirit of
inquiry and toleration which has lately arisen among
Turks as to the authenticity and use of the Bible, the
foundation on which the christian religion is established,
jQ comparison with that of the Koran and Sunna, the
source of Islamism itself, the harmony of Protes-
tantism and the Bible, and the opposite of the
popery of the Eastern and Western churches,
whose hierarchical governments, as well as life
and conduct, have long since been condemned by
Mahommedans as contrary to scripture, with the
equally interesting fact that the final settlement of the
East is dependent upon the triumph of Protestantism,
and the establishment of civil and religious liberty on
Protestant i)rinciples, or in accordance with the sacred
institutes of the Bible— from these things, we say,
they conclude that concession to the proposition of
Russia would only be throwing Turkey open to the
fanaticism of the Greek church, including Russian
propagandism, and therefore leaving the question as
far from settled as ever, if not further. In short, they
look upon the reformation of Turkey as a work of time,
requiring the active intervention of the Western
powers during this period, in order to bring it to a
successful termination ; and as such a work involves in

some measure the civil and religious liberty of Russia
also, it is not likely that it will meet with the approba-
tion of the Emperor Nicliolas; consequently the
question arises — How long and in what manner will
the commerce of the Baltic and Black Sea be affected
by this state of things ? What influence are they
likely to have upon the agriculture and corn trade of
Britain ? Are we to conclude the present century as
we began it, with high prices ?

In answering these questions, we have first to observe
that progress has been made in the science of war as
well as in other sciences since 1815, so that the results
of hostilities at present will be different from tbose of
the i^ast. In other words, we have no reason to sup-
pose that because we are at war with Russia we are
there''ore to have the high prices of the former war,
while it is manifest that expenses will be greater at the
same time — a shot which then cost 5s. now costing 20s.

And besides progress in naval and military affairs,
politics, &c., war confined to the Russian shores of the
Baltic and Black Sea, or to Russia and Turkey ; or if
we even take a more unfavourable view of things
still, by supposing the Emperors of Austria and
Prussia to join the Czar in opposing the progress of
civil and religious freedom in Turkey and Russia, for
fear of its extension into their own dominions, even
then war, confined to northern Europe and Asia
Minor, would have a very different effect upon the
corn trade and agriculture of this country from what
the last war had ; for in it the whole world was
embroiled in one sanguinary struggle. When France
and England let loose " the dogs of war" against
each other, havoc and destruction devoured both sea
and land, so to speak ; but on the present occa-
sion, granting that Germany sent into the field along
with Russia the boasted force of "400,000" men
(which by-the-by is just what the ex-patriots of Poland
and Hungary desire), still the naval affairs of the
whole world would be comparatively at peace ; for
however protracted things may be on land, it is
manifest that the fleets of tlie Western powers will soon
silence all opposition to the shipping interests of both
seas. Russia may prohibit the export of corn ; but
what will that avail her when her exporting sea-board
falls into the hands of England and France, the two
great importing states? and when Georgia, Besserabia,
Poland, and Finland become independent states, and
the Danubian provinces free from blockade ?

In answering this question the martial rules and
maxims of the last century cannot be trusted as guides
to the present, however favourable such may appear
to the interest o( individual parties, for nations are now
almost unanimous as to the impolicy of allowing war
to interfere with the ordinary affairs of commerce.
Tlie public manifestoes of England, France, and the
United States to put au end to privateering, and

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

otherwise improve international law3, prove this. Now
if these three states join hands together as to the
maritime policy of nations, it ouglit to convince tlie
most sceptical alarmist that not only the shipping
interest of the Baltic and Blaclv Sea is safe in their
hands, but also that of the whole world. If, therefore,
the shipping interest remain undisturbed or undi-
minished in tonnage, the effuct of war upon the corn
trade is limited to the power of Russia to prohibit
exports, and the policy which France and England,
the two importing states, may thiulc iit to extend
towards such a proliibition.

Tliat the fleets of the Western Powers will cripple the
commerce of Russia by a close blockade need not be
questioned ; but that they will comply with the
prohibitory measures of the Czar, so as to starve
Paris and London on the one hand, and allow the
enemy to retain an abundant supply of cheap bread
corn on the other, is a proposition not so easily
reconciled to tlie general policy and interest of cither
of the two governments. Revenge is no doubt
sweet, but self-interest sweeter still, and the more
prudent course for them to pursue is to render nuga-
tory the attempt on the part of Russia to prohibit
the export of corn, for this would enable thousands to
sell out and seek for safety in more promising climes
than she now affords, while it would place those left
behind in a position of the most dangerous kind. It
is a well known fact, for instance, that tlie strength of
the Russian army is drafted from her peasantry, that
farther conscriptions are contemplated in magnitude
such as the agricultural resources of the country will
admit of, and consequently the more old corn the
Emperor succeeds in retaining on liand, just so much
the greater an army can he bring to bear upon Turkey
and the defence of the principalities he has so un-
ceremoniously wrenched from her, and which he can-
not now much longer retain, if he has not by this time
been driven like a wolf from his prey ; that the laws of
conscription and export of corn can only be enforced
by military authority, so that wlien that authority is
called into active service, such laws are liable to be set
at naught by a disappointed populace on the first
reverses which Russia may experience in the campaign
she herself recommenced by crossing the Danube
this year as she did the Pruth thela^t; and consequently
the moment such reverses are experienced, as doubtless
they soon will be, both in the Baltic and Black Seas, the
greatest enemies which Nicholas will have to encounter
will be those of the late Emperor Paul — his oion sub-
jects ! What, in short, he most dreads is the importa-
tion of those civil and religious principles which govern
England. Aware of their dangerous character, and
alarmed at the progress they are now making in
Turkey, he is afraid lest they cross his own frontier
next, as such a result would Inevitably put an end to
arbitrary rule at home, at variance with public interest,
such as prohibiting the export of corn, and aggressive
government towards other states, as the long-cherished
dismemberment of the Turkish Empire, where for the
last ten years the Czar has been, in the language of
the poet,

" Nursing his wrath to keep it warm;"
and^hese are the very sort of materials we would
therefore suggest sending him, not on the principle of
sowing sedition in an enemy's country, but of sowing the
seeds of permanent peace and prosperity; materials
which would bind the northern autocrat more tightly
than parchment treaties have hitherto done or ever can
do ; indeed the only materials by which the fanaticism of
the Greek Church of Russia can be successfully
checked, and the Eastern question finally and satis-
factorily settled.

Supposing these to be the facts of the case about to
be revealed by the war, facts which are daily becoming
more apparent as the stormy elements of war-gathering
cloud thehorizon of all the Russias, facts which, in point
of fact, are already beginning to be realized, for in the
very capital of the empire itself the most arbitrary and
tyrannical measures are necessary, to confine the
slumbering elements of rebellion within the breasts
of an ignorant and already disappointed populace, who
are becoming sensible of their position, and the abso-
lute necessity of a change of government before re-
dress of grievances can possibly be expected, and
while the Greek church of Turkey and Greece is
showing unrnistakeable signs of Russian propagandism;
such, therefore, being the facts of the case, we say we
have the greatest difficulty in arriving at the conclu-
sion that war with Russia will advance the price of corn
so as to benefit the landed interest and the corn trade
of this country, even granting that the government of
Turkey shall virtually devolve upon France and England
for the next twenty years. Indeed the very idea of its
doing so is repugnant alike to common sense and
humanity ; so that landlords, tenants, and corn mer-
chants, with others interested, may make up their
minds to share the calamities of war in common with
the rest of her Majesty's loyal subjects, and the higher
the price of corn the greater will be the expenses
entailed upon the country. The impolitic increase of
the malt tax, so justly condemned in the leading
columns of this paper — the increase of the property
tax, and expenditure of the landed interest generally*
without a corresponding increase in rents, produce,
and profits, fully confirm this, and even more than
this, for it is manifest that this class will be saddled
with more than a fair share of the exjienses of the war.

We must, therefore, look to other causes for the
fluctuations which have taken place in the price of
corn, and continuation of high prices expected, than
to the actual commencement of hostilities with Russia;
for it is supply and demand which can only legiti-
mately affect price. Now the fluctuation which has
taken place in the price of corn during the last
twelve months is such, that supply and demand
cannot legitimately account for it ; so that it must be
attributed to speculation or something else. No doubt
more statistical information is necessary than we
now possesses, to enable us successfully to regulate
supply and demand to the greatest public advantage ;
but we question very much, if after we have obtained
such from every county in the kingdom, as was this
year done from Edinburgh, Roxburgh, and Sutherland

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

shires, that fluctuations in price will become the
exception; for certain it is that farmers at least
cannot plead ignorance of the deficiency of last year's
crop, so as to impute the fluctuations which have taken
place to a want of information, for by last midsummer
the deficiency of crop 1853 was nearly as well known
as at present. But we are not left without more
tangible evidence in support of our proposition than de-
ductions of the above kind, for when the export of corn
was prohibited from the Russian shores of the Black
Sea, prices there immediately fell, and by sequence
ought to have risen here. Did they do so ? Quite the
contrary ! Tiie first effect of war, therefore, has been to
lower the price of corn in both Russia and England.
How then is such to be accounted for, seeing it is
diametrically opposite to the credence of so many ?

At Odessa the question is easily answered ; for the
demand was reduced, and consequently the price
fell, according to the ordinary course of com-
merce. But in England it was otherwise ; for
here, although the natural supply was diminished,
yet from speculation being unable to hoard up any
longer, she was compelled to make forced sales
both in France and England, and therefore filled the
market with a temporary supply, upon the whole
greater than the previous demand, and hence reduced
the price. Speculation, therefore, was the cause of the
depression in the English markets at that time, and
not war as formerly stated ; and the depression would
in all probability have been greater but for the pro-
hibition of exports from the seat of war ; while high
prices generally have been occasioned by the deficient
harvest of last year, and not war. Indeed, since the
declaration of war against Russia, prices have been
lower than they were previously, proving, in the plainest
manner, the soundness of the conclusions we have
advanced, and also accounting for the short supply of
breadstufFs from America. The high prices of spring
might easily be accounted for were it now necessary,
as well as some other anomalies ; and since that time,
the country has reason to congratulate itself on the
pretty uniform level at which things have remained,
the Finland Gulf and Black Sea being both under
blockade.

We have even some difficulty in concluding that the
prohibition of the Czar and blockade will very much
diminish supplies from the Black Sea ; for if Odessa
and the other exporting places fall into the hands
of the Western Powers, as they doubtless will, they
will become Anglo-French provinces during the period
of war, or free Slates not subject to the laws of Russia;
consequently there is nothing to prevent their corn
being shipped to this country and France, if required.
If Paris and London want corn, we say it can hardly
be supposed that a veto will not be put upon the pro-
hibition of the Emperor Nicholas, and the welfare of
captured or liberated provinces duly protected. In-
deed, it is manifest that Russia will soon not have a
port in the Black Sea to blockade.

So far as the present crop is concerned^ therefore.

we have been unable to arrive at the conclusion that
war will ha\e that infiuence upon the price of corn
v/hich many appear willing to attribute to it. The
high prices and fluctuation of this year are occa-
sioned by a short crop, and consequent specula-
tion, and not by the war on the Danube. But
increasing the malt- tax, and taxing the incomes
of landlords, tenants, &c., to pay the expenses of
war, will, we fear, be productive of very different
results. The agricultural resources of the theatre
of war T.-ill no doubt be affected so that there
may be a dsfieient STipply from the Black Sea next
year, and this may render speculation at present
somewhat less hazardous to those whose credit will
permit of long storage ; but the destinies of the ensuing
crop, upon which the price of next year depends, we
leave in higher hands than those of speculation, ob-
serving that, so far as gone, the season is propitious to
France and England, now called upon to perform an
important mission in the East in favour of civil and
religious liberty. Harvest, it is true, will not be quite
so early as at one time expected ; but, although this is
now fact, the yield may yet be as great as otherwise
would have been. — W. B.

CONSUMPTION IN FOWLS CURABLE.~A corre-
spondeut of the Poultry Chronicle, a new publication devoted
to the poultry interest, announces cousumption curable among
fowls. Cod Liver Oil, whose virtues seem to be unlimited, is
in this instance the saviour aud fatteaer of skimiy Cochin
cockerels. We are told that " the best way to exhibit this
medicine is in Scotch oatmeal, for, singularly enougli, it mixes
with it much better than in barley iiour. The dose is a full
teaspoonful three or four times daily. After about two days,
the circulation seems iraproving', for gradually the livid cha-
racter of the comb and wattles, as also their general ap-
pearance, gives way ; aud from this time (the medicine still
continued) the bird improves alike in flssli and spirits. I re-
peat, I am not friendly to much doctoring of poultry ; but
fiuding not a single instance has come to my knowledge of
recovery by the many other means adopted, and where the oil
was freely administered not a death occurred, I have ventured
to forward my experience for the beueflt of your readers."

CAUTION TO SERVANTS.— ABSCONDING FROM
HUSBANDRY SERVICE.— A braliam ]\Ierritt was charged
with having misconducted himself, by running away from the
service of Mr. Pike, farmer, Bucklebury. It was proved that
the defeudaat was hired at Aylesbury last Michaelmas, at 53.
per week, and 3?. at the end of the period of his sjrvice; that
he entered on his service on October 10th, and continued there
until the 14th of May, when, without asking permission or
any notice being given, he absented himself. The defence
urged was, that the wages had not been raised according to
the increase in the price of bread; but it was shown that there
was no agreement of that kind made between him and his
employer, neither had he made any complaint in that respect.
Tlio Bench sentenced him to be imprisoned for one month, and
ordered 203. to be abated fromhia weekly wages, and 53. from
bis yearly allowance.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

ARE SxMALL OR LARGE SHEEP THE MOST
PROFITABLE >

Sir, — Ever since the days of tlie far-famed Mr. Bakewell,
of Dishley, Leicestershire, there have been two opinions, whether
large or small sheep are the most profitable. The breeders of
small sheep say, that an auimul may be good and not great,
and great and not good, and that size has nothing to do with
profit. It is not what au animal makes, so much as what it
costs making ; and that a larger number of small sheep can be
kept upon a given number of acres than larger sheep, the lesser
sheep not consuming so much food per head as the larger.

The breeders of large sheep say that they can produce more
wool and mutton per acre by breeding large sheep than small ;
and that Mr. Bakewell lived when fat flesh or tallow made as
much per lb. as leau flesh. Since that time, through the gas,
one pound of lean flesh has made as much aa two pounds of
fat wheu pared off as tallow, and that there is more lean flesh
in proportiou upon large sheep, such as Lincolns end Cots-
wolds, than upon the true-bred Leicesters, that are no^v, and
have been, famous for fat flesh, small bone, and a great pro-
pensity to fatten at early maturity. Many people have an
idea that the sheep are all small that are bred in Leicester-
shire, which is erroneous. Last year I travelled through seve-
ral counties, to find wool, mutton, and size combined. I found
at Drayton-ou-the-Welland, in Leicestershire, four miles from
Eockiogham Castle, 140 rams belonging to Mr. Bryan AVard,
an eminent grazier, who feeds yearly upon grass from
500 to 600 oxen, and shears 2000 sheep. Mr. Ward's rams
have plenty of wool, size, and lean flesh, clifted all through
their backs, with small, fine thin heads, which denote a well-
bred auimal, and a propensity to fatten at an early age, Mr.
Ward's sheep are styled, by many, Old Leicesters, because they
have more wool and size than the pure-bred New Leicesters,
and have a great semblance to the best long-woolled Lincolns.
There are now many flocks in the county of Leicester that
have been crossed with Lincolns and Cotswolds, to increase
size and wool ; and there are many flocks left of what they
style pure-bred New Leicesters. By the ram sales at Peter-
borough fair, last year, the Lincolnshire sheep seem to be gain-
ing ground, as they made more money than any other kind of
long-woolled white-faced sheep. S. A.

86, Fauxhall-street, Vauxlwll, Surrey, June 14, 1854.

THE POLICY OF LABOUREP.S' FRIEND SOCIE-
TIES.— A discussion on this subject took place at the London
Central Farmers' ^Club last week, which cannot fail to be in-
teresting in this county, covered, as it is, with a net-work of
these societies. The subject was introduced by JMr. Morton,
who took a review of the prizes usually given, dividing them
into two classes —those off'cred for skill in the various depart-
ments of husbandry, aud those awarded to honesty and good
conduct. The great benefit of the first he admits ; in fact it
would have been rather a bold course to deny it, with the evi-
dence we have before us of the great improvement that has
taken place in the districts in ploughing and land-draining, for
instance, since these societies have fostered the skill and called
forth the emulation of the labourers. The seccud class of
rewards Mr. Morton aa decidedly cor.dcnins. His opinion may
be gathered from the assertion that " a money reward for ho-
nesty is an absurdity ; that a money reward for industry
should be given in the form of wages ; that a money reward
for attention to religious duties is apt to be a premium upon
hypocrisy " — a wholesale denunciation that may, perhaps, be

right in principle, since honesty and a consciousness of duty
well discharged to God and man ought to carry with them
their own reward. But do they do this among the village poor?
If not, ought we to adhere to the cold severity of a principle,
aud disdain the use of those expedients calculated to arouse in
the cottager a sense of his own dignity, and to restore his
feelings oa this subject to a healthy state. We believe if Mr.
Morton had been present at so many of the annual meetings
of these societies as we have, and had marked the efl'ect on
the assembled poor — if he had entered the cottages of Essex,
and had noted the feeling of pride with which the younger
members of the family pointed his attention to their father's
memorial of merit, he would not isave been so ready to corn-
elude that these marks of distinction, for they are not given
as rewards, fall upon stony ground and produce no fruit,—
Essex Herald,

RURAL POLICE BILL.— Lord Palmerston's Rural Po-
lice Bill has been printed. The magistrates iu the next quar-
ter sessions are to elect from their body the " police board" of
the county for the year, the number not to exceed 1 for every
10,000 of the population of the county, exclusive of the
boroughs, and in no case to exceed 20 in the whole. For the
purposes of this act, counties with a population of less than
60,000 are to be united to adjoining counties, and boroughs
with less than 20,000 are to be consolidated with their county,
but to be represented in the police board by the mayor, and (if
the population exceed 10,000) a member of the council. The
police board, who are to appoint a clerk at such salary ss they
think fit, are to have the direction and managemeut of the
police of the county, and, where a coustabulary has not been
already established for the whole of the count}', they are to
proceed forthwith to establish or complete a sufficient police
for the whole county. This force, which is to include the ex-
isting police in any consolidated borough, will have authority
in such boroughs, and in boroughs not consolidated will have
the powers the police now have in adjoining counties under the
Police Act of 2ud and 3rd Victoria. The requisite police rate
is to be raised according to the provisions of the (Police)
Amendment Act of the 3rd and 4th of Victoria. In boroughs
not consolidated with a county, the watch committee are to
appoint a head constable, and he is to appoint the number of
constables fixed by the committee ; he to have the general dis-
position and government of the force. The Secretary of State
is to have power to make regulations as to the pay, &c., of
constables; and Her Majesty in Council, on his report that their
number is iusuflicient, may order an additional number to be
appointed. The appointment of head or chief constable is to
be subject to the approval of the Home Secretary.

HOW TO CLEAN ANIMALS AND PLANTS OP
VERMIN.— The "Agriculture" publishes a letter from M,
Raspall, giving an account of a plan for destroying vermin on
animals, and also trees and plants. The process he recom-
mends is to make a solution of aloes (one gramme of that
gum to a litre of water), and by means of a long brush to
wash over the trunks and branches of trees with this solu-
tion, which will speedily, he says, destroy all the vermin on
them, and effectually prevent others from approaching. In
order to clean sheep and animals with loug hair, they must
either be bathed with this solution, or be well washed with it.
The writer mentions several trials which he had made of the
solution with the most complete success, and very strongly
recommends it to general use, — Paris Correspondent of Morn-
ing Advertiser.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

AGRICULTURAL REPORTS.

GENERAL AGRICULTURAL REPORT FOR
JUNE.

At this particular period of the year, an accurate
and unbiassed report on the subject of the growing
crops must prove highly interesting. The in-
quiries we have instituted on this head are calcu-
lated to inspire great confidence, as regards the
probable yield of wheat J but they prove beyond a
doubt, that we have passed the highest period of
value, unless, indeed, a very decided and unfavour-
able change should take place in the general appear-
ance of the crop between this and the close of
harvest work. From what may be termed the lead-
ing wheat-growing counties — viz., Essex, Kent,
Cambridgeshire, Lincolnshire, &c. — our advices,
with very few exceptions, are to the effect that the
wheats have rapidly, but not prematurely, come into
ear (in some districts the bloom has begun to make
its appearance), that the plants have tillered well,
are strong, and otherwise healthy. Statements
have got abroad that blight has been very prevalent
and destructive ; but we have been unable to trace
them to any authoritative source. In some other
parts of England, although resowings have not
been of an extensive character, the crop is de-
scribed as rather thin on the ground ; nevertheless,
our informants intimate that there is every reason-
able prospect of an average yield. The generally-
acknowledged poor districts show signs of only
a moderate return, although in some particular
localities, which of late years have shown a great
Improvement in the mode of cultivation, the wheat
is looking remarkably well. So far, therefore, as the
season has already progressed — and it mustbe admit-
ted that the weather has been anything but fine ever
since the beginning of April up to the first week of
this month — we see every reason to be satisfied ;
but, as a matter of course, much will depend upon
the state of the weather during the next three
weeks ; in other words, we have now arrived at
the most critical period as regards the safety of the
whole crop. This, however, we may safely venture
to assert, viz., that in the event of our having only
a moderate amount of moisture, seasonably warm
weather, and very few gales, together with an ab-
sence of blight, we shall reap one of the most
abundant crops on record. And here we are par-
ticularly alluding to the acreable yield ; and were
we to make due allowance for the immense breadth
of land under cultivation, and that too with the
best wheats, compared with several previous years.

especially with 1853, we might calculate upon a sup-
ply which would render us almost wholly inde-
pendent of Russian produce. So far, therefore,
there is everything in favour of the consumer, as
regards the probable supply.

We have now a few observations to offer in
reference to spring corn. The high prices of
barley, oats, beans, and peas, as well as of rye,
have been instrumental in breaking up large
tracts of inferior grass lands, which are now
bearing ihe germ of heavy crops. Both on light
and heavy soils, the two former articles are exhibit-
ing a splendid appearance ; in point of fact, they
have never looked better than at this moment ;
but we regret to observe that the three latter show
the possibility of a short crop, as they have not
recovered from the effects of the severe frosts,
which evidently inflicted severe damage on them
just prior to the blooming period.

We now come to the consideration of another
important portion of our report : we allude to the
potato crop. In the four or five preceding seasons
we have had occasion to call attention to the great
ravages committed by blight and disease about this
period ; and we have frequently seen the stems
completely rotten and destroyed by the first week in
June. This year, however, no serious cases have
presented themselves to our notice; and nearly the
whole of our correspondents have informed us that
"the crop is progressing remarkably well;" and
yet the potatoes which have made their appearance
in the various markets have been of a poor watery
quality — owing, no doubt, to the want of dry, forcing,
weather. At present we have nothing to urge against
the condition of the tubers in the ground, as they ex-
hibit no signs of rot ; neither does the haulm tend to
lessen our confidence as regards the total growth,
which bids fair to be unusually large. The want
of statistical information on the subject of the yield
of grain and other produce in this country is being
severely felt, not only by the importers of grain,
but likewise by the growers themselves. In addi-
tion to this want, we are almost wholly in the dark
as to the supplies of foreign food in warehouse at
our outports. Had such information been pub-
lished annujilly, much loss and disappointment
would frequently be avoided. Of course, it would
be impossible to ascertain the extent of foreign im-
portations until after they have taken place ; but
we do raise our protest against the foolish and ex-
aggerated statements which have frequently found

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

their way into print on the subject of the growth of
food. Last year we were told that nearly the whole
of the potato crop had been destroyed by disease.
The losses, no doubt, were great ; yet we grew a
sufficient quantity for consumption ; in proof of
which, we may observe that old potatoes are now
offering for sale in rather considerable quantities.
Had the growers generally been aware that the
produce was as great as it proved to be, no doubt
present supplies would have been long since dis-
posed of at higher rates than can now be obtained
for them.

The grass crop is by no means a heavy
one. As yet only a small portion of it has been
cut, and the swathe is turning out light. The
severe frosts in the early part of last month have
tended to lessen the produce in the whole of those
counties where they were experienced in the great-
est intensity.

Our advices from France, Spain, and Germany,
state that the wheat crop is forward, and looks ex-
tremely well ; but that the produce of rye will be
comparatively small. The potato crop in Holland
is turning out large. The imports from that coun-
try have been on a very liberal scale ; but new Eng-
lish qualities have been selling at high rates, owing
to their scarcity.

The stocks of home-grown corn, especially of
wheat, now on hand, are perhaps smaller than for
many years past. This feature in the trade, how-
ever, owing to the immense supplies of foreign wheat
and other articles which continue to be imported,
notwithstanding the war with Russia, has failed to
keep prices on the advance. The fall in them
during the month has been fully 2s. per qr. ; but
the depressed state of the markets has, in a great
measure, been caused by the favourable reports on
the subject of the growing crops.

The wool trade has continued in a most depressed
state. A further rather serious decline has taken
place in the value of English qualities ; whilst so
little has been doing in foreign and colonial parcels,
that the quotations have ruled almost nominal.

The fat-stock markets have been but moderately
supplied, and prices have ruled unusually high,
arising from the great comparative falling off in the
importations, and the increased consumption.

In Ireland and Scotland, fat beasts and sheep, as
well as store animals, have realzied very high rates.
The corn trade, however, has ruled very inactive,
and the quotations have not been supported, if we
except oats, which have produced rather more
money, owing to the blockade of the Russian
ports.

REVIEW OF THE CATTLE TRADE
DURING THE PAST MONTH.

Notwithstanding that there has not been quite so
much activity in the demand for fat stock as in the
preceding month, a very extensive business has
been again transacted. The supplies of beasts in
Smithfield have fallen off; but of sheep, lambs,
and calves the arrivals have increased to some ex-
tent. From the continent, too — though they have
fallen short of some corresponding periods — the
imports have improved in number, but not in
quality. In the provinces store animals have
realized unusually high figures ; yet, as a matter of
course, the business doing in them has not been
extensive. Altogether, the trade has been in a far
more healthy state than for many years past : as
regards its future course, we may venture to ob-
serve that it will continue active, though, as a
matter of course, much will depend upon the ex-
tent of the supphes we are likely to receive from
the north and the continent. Our Lincolnshire
correspondents state that the number of beasts now
in the marshes, as well as in the homesteads, is a
full average one ; but we have every reason to be-
lieve that the supply on the continent destined for
our markets is very moderate. Butchers, gene-
rally, loudly complain of the present high prices,
and of the light weights of both beasts and sheep.
They have, perhaps, lost more money by the rise
in the quotations than they gained during the two
years of depression : consequently they are most
desirous of lower prices, in order to enable them to
dispose of their inferior joints at something like a
fair profit, which they are unable to do at present
prices. We have received scarcely any unfavour-
able advices respecting the health of the stock in
any of our large breeding districts. This is a most
satisfactory feature in the trade, and one which is
calculated to keep prices in check, although we see
no chance of any decline in them.

The following are the imports of foreign stock
into London during the month : — Head.

Beasts 2,657

Sheep 9,873

Lambs 575

Calves 2,113

Pigs 995

IMPORTS AT CORRESPONDING PERIODS.

June, June, June, June,

1850.
Beasts .. .... 1,515

Sheep 7,398

Lambs 302

Calves 1,600

Pigs 125

1851.

1852.

1853.

1,413

2,035

2,293

7,937

9,784

10,529

593

965

1,233

1,331

2,145

2,621

651

227

191

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

The total supplies exhibited in Smithfield have
consisted of — Head.

Beasts 18,921

Cows 530

Sheep and lambs ..131,660

Calves 2,999

Pigs , 2,670

SUPi^LIES AT CORRESPONDING PERIODS.

Jime, June, June, June,
1850. 1851, 1852. 1853.

Beasts 16,608 17,805 18,209 20,137

Sheep & lambs 182,620 169,420 134,160 130,500

Calves ., 2,453 2,275 2,781 3,328

Pigs 2,475 2,611 2,820 2,565

The arrivals from Norfolk, SufFolk, Essex, and
Cambridgeshire have amounted to 9,000 Scots and
short-horns ; from other parts of England, 2,700
of various breed j and from Scotland 1,400 Scots.
About 100 beasts, 200 sheep, 100 calves, and 150
pigs have arrived direct by sea from Ireland, in
good condition. The high prices realized in
Smithfield, and the increasing supplies of stock in
Ireland, will no doubt be productive of an im-
proved trade.

Newgate and Leadenhall markets have been
very moderately supplied with meat, which has
sold steadily, as follows: — Beef from 3s, to 4s.
4d. ; mutton, 3s. 2d, to 4s. 8d.; lamb, 4s. 8d. to
5s. 8d,; veal, 3s. 4d. to 4s. lOd.; and pork, 3s. 4d,
to 4s. Bd. per Slbs. by the carcase.

WEST GLOUCESTERSHIRE.

Since our last report the dull and generally cold influeacea
of the atmosphere have been unpropitious to the rapid pro-
gross of vegetation, which we are accustomed to hope for at
this seaaon of the year. The cold dry winds which prevailed
for the most part during the months of April and May, a time
when the verdure of the meadows is wont to burst forth with
luxuriance, checked rither than promoted the prospect of an
abundant produce. The sheltered meadows on the margin
of the Severn, and the numerous brooks which wind their
course through this county, have escaped the effects of the
drought ; yet the crops of grass in those favoured positions
do not approach an average. The showers of rain which fell
in the early part of May did not come in time for the upland
meadows, on which the crops are very scanty, and will be late
ere they are fit for the scythe ; the quality, however, will be
good, providing a propitious time ensues for harvesting; and
thus we may hope that quahty will be some compensation for
quantity. Hay-making commenced in forward situations
about the 19th, and some of the fields are cleared — the hay
from which cannot fail to be excellent. This busy process will
be in full operation during the current week. The crops of
clover are tolerably fair — in some places luxuriant. The fruit,
on which the Gloucestershire farmer is greatly dependent, is a
total failure; the blossom was prodigious, but the cold frosty
nights which we experienced about the 25th of April, suc-
ceeded by much blight, destroyed all hopes of a crop. The
wheat promises to be abundant in most places; the rains
wliich have fallen at intervals during the last six or seven
weeks have been highly favourable to that important crop,
which bears the cool weather better than any other kind of
grain, and, with the blessing of a good harvest, we may an-
ticipate the most cheering prospect. Barley varies greatly
its condition, depcudiug entirely upon the period when it was
sown : that which was consigned to the earth very early had
to lie in the ground for want of rain and that which was sowu
late appears very weak ; the intermediate is most promising ;

but an average crop cannot be anticipated. This, in conjunc-
tion with the failure of the fruit, an,d the additional duty on
malt, v.ill render those necessary, wholesome, and invigorating
beverages produced therefrom difficult of access by the la-
bouring classes. The oats and peas generally look well; but
the beans, which are in full blossom, shedding their delightful
perfume, are short, and except on land in high cultivation
are weak. The flattering hope that the potato had overcome
the disease, which has made such fearful ravages during the
past six or seven years, appears likely to be disappointed.
Till within the last week no evidence of the evil had shown
itself ; but on close inspection those unmistak&ble symptons
are too plainly visible. It has not, however, as yet assumed
that sudden and universal character which in former years
accompanied the attack, and we may therefore yet entertain
reasonable hopes that at least a modification of the malady
will spare a greater portion of the crops. A larger breadth
of land than usual is under cultivation with this esculent.
Bygone disappointments seem not to have checked the ear-
nest endeavoura of those who till the soil, from the wealthy
landowner to the poorest cottager, to procure a supply of this
useful vegetable. Tlie grain markets have experienced the
same slight fluctuations which have been noticed in other
parts of the kingdom ; but the rick-yards denote unequivocal
evidence that there is not much store in the farmers' hands,
and nearly three months must pass before we can calculate
upon a supply—the result of the ensuing harvest. A decline
in prices cannot under such circumstances be expected. Mutton
and beef are scarce, without alteration in value. Store stock
is not easily sold, few persons having any superfluity of keep ;
nor is there a probabihty of much improvement until the after-
math is ready for consumption. The turnips on the hills,
which were sown early, came up vigorously, and were as vi-
gorously attacked by the fly ; thus the prospect of a crop is
not very flattering. The value of labour continues unaltered,
and good workmen dem.and from 10s. to 12s. a week. The
operations of the dairy are in full work, but complaints are
made that the cows do not yield their accustomed quantities
of milk : the chilly state of the atmosphere is doubtless the
cause.

HERTFORDSHIRE.

As the season approaches which will enable us to form some
opinion of the growing crops, a more than usual anxiety is felt,
from the generally admitted fact that a very small portion of
last year's produce remains in the hands of the farmers. With
the exception that the cold spring has retarded the growth of
the wheat, and caused the period of coming into ear to be a
week later than usual, circumstances generally have been fa-
vourable to the production of a good crop. It is generally
considered to exhibit a strong and healthy appearance as it
regards colour, and the shortness of the straw will tend to
keep it erect, thereby improving the quality and increasing the
yield ; but, the result depending more on the future influences
of weather than on the present condition, we can only hope
that it may please Providence so to mature the fruits of the
earth that the farmers may be able to afford to sell them at a
price at which all may be bountifully fed. The barleys that
were put in well in the month of March promise well, and
those in the latter end of April ; but such as were put in after
the sheep in the beginning of April came up very badly, and
still exhibit two stages of growth on the same land, yet the
welcome rains in the beginning of May will probably prevent
that uneven ripening that is so injurious to malting barley.
Oats are also very short in the straw. The winter variety is
fully in ear, and one or two such days as to-day will have a
similar effect on the wheat, not more than half of which can be
said to be in ear. The season has been favourable to mangel-
wurzel ; also to the sowing of swedes. There have been com-
plaints of seed in some cases, but it is probable the slowness of
vegetation consequent on the low temperature may require
the exercise of more patience than common, and that two or
three warm days, especially with a little moisture, may remove
the disappointment experienced by some who have sown their
seed nearly a fortnight without having a full plant. Crops of
grass are particularly light, and clovers are thin ou the ground ;
this, without any good old hay on hand, will ensure a full
price for all description of food for stock. The effect of this
prospect is already being felt in the price of store stock, which
is not so brisk a sale as it was a few weeks back.— -June 22.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

NORTH NORTHUMBERLAND.

After a long continuance of dry withering weatber, tlie first
drenching rain fell over this district ou the evening of May 27 ;
a part of the following day was also wet, and in some localities
the rivulets and brooks were flooded. The wind almost
directly veered to N.E , and continued to blow quite a gale,
cold and ungenial for several successive days. Land became
hardened, and some fear was entertained for the newly-sown
turnips ; the fine tilth of the soil became entirely crusted ;
light rolling, with other means, was put in practice, to assist
the tender plant to sustain existence. The excessive dry
state of the land previously, prompted the farmer to avail
himself of every facility to push forward field labour, and sel-
dom do we recollect a season when turnip-sowing has been
finished to such an extent over the broad acres of this county.
Although the atmosphere continued cold and ungenial up to
the 17th, when it rained nearly the entire day, with a driving
cold N.E. wind ; siuce that evening the wind has shifted to
S.S.W., and the temperature assumes something like summer.
There are complaints of the turnip-ily ; and at this early stage
it would appear premature to venture any opinion, but «e
must admit there is a full and fair chance for a crop. Pota-
toes, which were all but stunted by the dry cold weather, are
much refreshed by the rain; and, where not thinned by the
rooks, are generally a full healthy plant. Old meadows will
improve ; the rain was, however, too late for the clover and
annual young grasses, which will certainly fall a very deficient
crop. Our earliest autuma-sown wheats are just showing the
ear; and for the last three days the weather has been very
fine and forcing, yet we can add nothing more favourable to
the prospect than in our last report. From extensive and
very close observation we have noticed large fields that seem
to have lost plant, and on the fall of the shoot-blade will not
be so bulky as appearances led us to anticipate. On almost
all cold weak soils, and wherever sown after beans, turnips, or
ley, with the land in a poachy state, the plant is invariably
weak and thin. The tilieriug season is now past, and all depends
on the weather for the next six weeks for maturing the plant.
Barley and oats are each improving since the late rains : there
are still many fields of the latter that never can approach half
a crop. It is quite the season for docks, thistles, and all
deep-rooted filth to tiller and luxuriate ; while the seed for
crop lies near the surface, and cannot vegetate for lack of
moisture. We hope our allusions may prove only exceptions
and not the rule ; but, up to the day we write, taking a ride
of 20 miles across the country, or a run on the rail five times
that distance, it is indisputable that very large breadths of
land may be seen (under crop) with very large patches en-
tirely bare, except weeds. Beans have made little progress
for some weeks past, although up to May 12 we had a full,
vigorous, strong plant. The continuance of dry, cold weather
seems to have cut off further growth. They have for weeks
past been full of blossom, with a stem barely a foot high.
Where an admixture of peas has been put in, they will now
improve and fill up the blanks in the drill, which has a naked
appearance. Pastures continue very short ot feed; iinleas
where the grazing stock could be removed after a shower of
rain, the grasses have never afforded the animals a full bite.
Sheep have generally been turned from the shears in poor
condition. Lambs, on the contrary, are good, and mostly in
fine, healthy, store condition. Beef and mutton for a few
weeks past have sold unusually high in our fat markets, but
seem now to give way a little. We 'have full employment
for all spare labourers ; indeed, in many localities a sufficiency
of field-workers cannot be had. Pastures require to be cleaned
of thistles, and many corn-fields will not be easJy freed from
such filth. — June 23.

AGRICULTURAL INTELLIGENCE,
FAIRS, &c.

ALPHINGTON FAIR.— The proceedings were, compara-
tively speaking, of a diiU character. The show of stock was
moderate throughout, and business was slack. The attendance
of buyers was small ; notwithstanding which, more money was
in some instances paid for prime beef here than at Exeter
market on the previous Friday. As much as lis. 6d. per

score was realized for very prime animals, but the average
market price ranged from 10s; to lis. per score ; cows and
calves, £12 to £17 each ; working oxen, £25 to £35 each ;
barieners, 6s. to 7s. per score. Sheep : Wethers, shorn 6d.
to 6.jd., unshorn 6^d. to 7d. per lb. ; ewes, 5d. to 5|d. ;
lambs, 6id. to 7d. The attendance of buyers was fair, and
the show of horses numerous. There was, however, a great
lack of good animals, and scarcely anything first-class was to
be seen. The " screw" description of horse was predominant,
and the average price of everything was the utmost that could
be got for it.

APPLEBY MARKET.— The show of sheep was by far the
largest ever seen on the ground, particularly the white- faced.
Stagshaw-bank was a bad fair for sheep, but Appleby has been
a great deal worse. Dealers in white-faced stock were losing
from 4s. to 8s. per head. Black-faced sheep sold readily at
former prices. Unfortunately for this district, the greet body
of the white-faced exposed belonged to our own dealers.
Little or no business was done the first day, but, from the
want of buyers, most of the dealers had to give way on Wed-
nesday. A good many lots, however, remained unsold at the
close of Wednesday, and are now on their way to summer
Stagshaw. The cattle vrerc a large show, but very poor in
condition. They sold readily at high rates. The beasts
bought at Dumbarton, after paying all travelling expenses,
yielded a fair profit to the dealers.

BOROUGHBRIDGE FAIR.— There was a very large sup-
ply of lean stock ; those in good condition made late rates,
but Irish and inferior qualities were in slow sale, at a reduc-
tion of from 203 to 30s. per head. Fat stock were in mode-
rate request at late rates. In the horse fair there was a large
attendance of dealers. First-class horses were in great de-
mand, but for second-rate and inferior animals the sale was
less brisk than heretofore, and lower rates were taken.

BRECHIN FAIR.— The supply of sheep exceeded the de-
maud, and prices receded from is. to Is. Gd.per head. Three-
year-old hill wethers brought from 20s. to 243., accordiug to
quality ; two-year-olds of the same class sold at ISs. to 21s. ;
black-faced ewes and lambs ranged from 18s. to 223. ; best fat
wethers in the fleece sold at 7d. per lb. A large number re-
mained unsold. The cattle market was largely supplied with
beeves, a large number of which were in excellent order.
Dealing went on briskly at the commencement of the fsir, but
a lull took place about midday, and small beasts weie difficult
to sell for an hour or two ; but bargains were resumed with
more spirit in the afternoon for cattle in good order. Prices
rather gave way, on the whole. Prime fat brought from 93.
to 9s. Gd. per Dutch stone to sink the offals, and were much
worse to sell than some of the large holders expected. Three-
year-old stots and queys, bred in the district, brought from
£14 to £20 ; two-year-old ditto, from £8 to £15 ; aud year-
olds, from £5 to £9 per head. Drove cattle were a stiff sale,
and brought from £9 to £15, according to weight and quality.
Farrow cows and small cows in lean condition were a stiff
sale at reduced rates. Good cows near calving were in request
at rates similar to the best fat. The north country dealers
complained that small beasts were a losing market, and a large
number of this description were left uusold. The result of
the market has been in favour of the best kiuds of animals, but
the very best fat did not command the rates expected, and the
fall was much greater in small drove beasts.

BREAGE FAIR was thinly supplied with cattle, but such
beasts as were offered for sale met with purchasers at high
rates.

CARLISLE FAT CATTLE MARKET.— The display of
sheep, lambs, and calves exceeded any other market we have
had for mauy months ; in fact, not one-third were disposed of.
Those sold were at a great reduction on former prices. Top
lots, 6d. per lb. ; lambs, no demand at 7d. per lb. ; calves, 7d.
per lb., but few sold. Beasts in no request ; prices on the de-
cline ; good fat, 28a. per stone. No speculation in sheep or
Iambs.

GIFFORD FAIR.— The stock was principally composed of
black-faced three- year- old wethers, which were principally sold
to farmers and fleshers, and a few lots of half-bred and Cheviot
wethers and ewe hoggs. The general stock was about an ave-
rage, but in consequence of the high prices asked in the morn-
ing the market was stiff, and few or no sales were effected until

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

the forenoon. Clipped sheep were a shade lower than last
year, but good three-year-old black-faced wethers brought
about 2s. a head above last year, although some lots of this
kind did not exceed last year's prices. The cows were com-
posed of milkers of all ages, and one and two-year-old store
cattle. The really good milkers were in demand ; and two-
year-olds in calf, or lately calved, brought from £10 lOs. to
£11 lOs. First-class aged cows ran from £12 to £15 ; second-
class, £8 to £12 ; third-class, at various prices up to £7.
V/hat was good in the above description of stock was in de-
mand, and sold readily at the above quotations, but a few of
the inferior animals remained unsold. In the horse market
the show of draught horses was splendid, in point of numbers
and quality. The sale was dull, but a few exchanges were
made amongst the draught horses, at prices under recent
markets.

KIDDERMINSTEK FAIR.— There was an excellent dis-
play of sheep and lambs, far more than generally. The show
of cows was very short ; prices were much lower. Buyers
would not give the former rates, and sellers did not like to
give way. Beef was sold at 6d. to G\i., and the best Sjd.;
sheep, e^d. to G^d. ; lambs, 7d. to 7^d. The show of horses
was far better than for some years, but trade was very flat,
even at reduced prices.

KINROSS FAIR.— The attendance and show of cattle
were above an average, and there was a fair demand for stock
of every kind, prices being upward. The best was fully 9s. 6d.
per Dutch stone, sinking offal. For grass beasts high prices
were obtained. The show of horses was fair ; good work
horses, from £35 to £40; medium qualities, from £25 to £33;
inferior at all prices.

NORTHAMPTON FAIR.—There was a very short supply
of fat sheep, with a dull trade. Best wether mutton made from
43. 6ci. to 43. 8il. per Slbs. ; good fat ewes, from 4s. 2d. to 4s.
4d. The supply of fat beef was also short, but quite equal to
the demand, buyers being rather scarce, and high prices being
asked ; what was sold made from about 4s. 4d. to 4s. lOd. per
81b3. The supply of store beasts was also scanty, with a thin
attendance of buyers and a limited business. In new milch
cows there was a good show, but an exceedingly bad trade, at
about £2 per head less money than at our last fair. In barren
cows also prices were considerably lower. The horse fair was
well supplied with horses of almost every description ; trade
dull, and piices lower.

PENZANCE FAIR.— The cattle fair was thinly supplied,
and cattle fetched high prices. Horses and foreign cattle were
sold by auction, and realized good prices.

ROSLEY HILL FAIR.—There was a large show of horses,
and though those of a good class were not difficult to dispose
of, still their owners could not realize for them more than their
actual value, consequently the falling off in price, as compared
with prices for some time past realized, was very considerable.
There has been no difficulty of late to dispose of a £25 horse
for £40, but yesterday the sellers were compelled either to
take the value of their animals or carry them home again.
Inferior horses were difficult to sell, even at a great reduction
in price. Messrs. Hall and Frear were the only extensive
horse dealers on the ground. The show of cattle was nume-
rous, especially young ones, but sales were not easy to effect,
even though a great reduction was offered to be submitted to.
Altogether the fair was a dull one, the attainment of the late
high rates being entirely out of the question. The weather
being favourable, the attendance of people from a distance of
many miles round the fair ground was unusually large.

ROSS FAIR was abundantly supplied with every descrip-
tion of fat and lean stock, but sales were dull. Fat sheep
averaged from 6|d. to 7d., and prime beasts from 7d. to 74d.
There was also an unusual quantity of good cart horses, many
of which realized high prices, but few nag horses found fresh
owners.

ROWELL FAIR.— It is said that the fair this year was the
least fair that had been known for many preceding ones.
There was a decent sprinkling of cattle, but trade was dull.
Stirks realized exorbitant prices.

SHEPTON-MALLET FAIR waa very thinly supplied with
stock, which fetched good prices. Sheep had rather a down-

ward tendency. The horse fair was small, and those offered
were of an inferior description, and there was but little busi-
ness done.

STAMFORD FAIR.—There was a large show of beasts for
the time of year, the cause being the scarcity of keep ; on this
account, too, the sale was very slack for store beasts, scarcely
any animals being sold ; the few disposed of changed owners
at a reduction of fully £1 per head. A few fat beasts were
offered, and this description of stock maintained recent high
rates, beef making Sa. 3d. to 8s. 6d. per stone. A few sheep
were offered, but the trade was flat, and of the limited number
shown scarcely any found purchasers. There waa a moderate
show of horses, the majority being of the middling and lower
class. About half-a-dozen good animals were offered, and sold
at high prices ; one small cart mare was sold for £33.

TAUNTON FAIR was tolerably well attended. There was
an average supply of stock, except sheep and lambs, of which
there were more than an average number penned. Dealers
were not so numerous as usual, or at least they were not gene-
rally disposed to do business at the prices asked. In the
horse fair good animals were by no means numerous, and sales
of horses that were effected of the class named were at very
high rates, but in the sale of the inferior animals prices varied
as usual.

TEWKESBURY FAIR was but a small one, very few
beasts being offered. Beef fetched 7d. ; mutton, in the wool
7^6.., shorn 7d. There were not a dozen horses in the fair.

TIVERTON FAIR.— On the whole, stock sold very well.
In the cattle fair the bullocks have seldom been surpassed,
and in many cases high prices were realized. Cows and calves
sold at from £11 to £13 10s. each ; fat bullocks, lis. to lis.
6d. per score. Ewes, SGs. to 42s. per head. Of Lambs there
were not so many as on some previous occasions. Saddle
horses fetched high prices ; two or three were offered at from
35 to 40 guineas. Ponies would not sell at any price, and
cart horses lay on hand.

USK FAIR.— The fat cattle, of which only a small supply
was offered, averaged 74d. per lb. There was a good number
of store cattle, but they met with a dull sale. Fat sheep
averaged 7d., lambs 7^d. per lb. Very few pigs were offered;
those sold fetched good prices. There were more horses than
usual, some of a useful description, but prices very much down.

IRISH FAIRS. — Ardnaree was very badly supplied
with stock, in consequence of the wetness of the day; but any
transactions effected were advantageous to the seller.
Ckoghan has not proved so favourable to the seller as had
been expected ; few persons disposed to purchase attended,
and the consequence was a considerable reduction in price.
Yearling bullocks were in demand, and brought from £3 to
£4 ; sheep not in request ; milch cows on the decline. Rath-
KEALE. — There was a good supply of stock, and a numerous
attendance of buyers. Beef rated at from 56s. to 60s. per
cwt. for prime ; two-year-old heifers sold at £6 to £9 each ;
yearlings from £4 lOs. to £6 lOs. ; two-year-old sheep, 6d. per
lb. sink; hoggets, 5d. to 5jd. per lb. sink; for lambs there
was little demand, and the average price for any sold was from
10s. to 14s. each; pigs were in good request at from 563. to
to 68s. per cwt. Leitrim. — So great was the demand that
almost every beast offered for sale was disposed of. Milch
cows, and young stock of every description, were in good re-
quest.— Boyle Gazette. Naas (County Kildare) was well
supplied with springers and stores, which sold freely at remu-
nerative prices. The following may be considered the average
prices : — There were a few fat beasts of a rather mediocre
description, which realized paying prices. Springers were in
great demand, and brought from £14 to £18 ; all in the fair
sold at the above prices. Strippers fetched from £8 to £12.
Two-year-old heifers and bullocks sold from £9 to £11. Mr.
Dodd purchased, for Sir Edward M'Donaell, a prime lot of
eighteen, at a high figure. Yearlings from £4 lOs. to £7. The
business done in the horse and sheep fair is not worthy of a
quotation. Fat pigs were scarce and in bad demand, and
brought fromm 44s. to 50s. per cwt. Stores were in great
request, and sold at prices from 30s. to 403. each.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

[81

METEOROLOGICAL DIARY.

Barometer.

The

RMOMETER.

Wind and State.

Atmosphere.

Weat'r.

1854.

8 a.m.

10p.m.

Min.

Max.

lOp.m,

Direction.

Force.

8 a.m.

2 p.m.

10p.m.

May 23

29.55

29.67

S. or by West

airy

cloudy

fine

clear

showery

29.66

29.79

S. or by West

brisk

fine

sun

cloudy

dry

29.81

29.80

S. Westerly

brisk

fine

sun

clear

dry
dry

29.70

29.72

W. by South

lively

cloudy

sun

fine

29.70

29.73

W. by South

hvely

cloudy

fine

hail

29.73

S. by E. & W.

lively

fine

cloudy

showery

29.67

29.66

S. West

lively

fine

cloudy

showery

29.69

29.87

S. West var.

lively

fine

cloudy

clear

showers

29.99

29.98

S.W., East

gentle

fine

sun

fine

dry

June 1

29.94

29.83

N. East

strong

fine

sun

cloudy

rain

29.73

N.N.E.

brisk

cloudy

wet

29.74

29.90

North

biisk

cloudy

dry

30.02

30.12

N.E.

fresh

fine

sun

fine

dry
dry

30.14

30.11

N.E.

gentle

cloudy

30.05

North

brisk

cloudy

dry

30.10

North

brisk

cloudy

dry

30.10

30.02

S.E., var.

calm

cloudy

fine

dry

30.00

29.98

Everyway

gentle

fine

dry

29.92

29.93

N.W.

lively

fine

sun

fine

dry

29.92

29.75

S, West

strong

fine

dry

29.69

29.65

S. West

brisk

cloudy

sun

clear

showery

29.65

29.70

S. West

brisk

cloudy

sun

fine

showers

26.75

29.73

S. West

gentle

cloudy

sun

cloudy

dry

29.72

29.77

East

gentle

cloudy

wet

29.79

29.69

Variable

gentle

cloudy

showery

29.58

29.68 ''

S. West

lively

cloudy

sun

clear

dry

29.77

29.87

S. West

gentle

fine

sun

fine

dry

29.94

29.95

S. West

brisk

fine

sun

fine

dry

29.91

29.93

Westerly

lively

fine

sun

fine

dry

30.02

30.05

W., S.by W.

gentle

fine

sun

cloudy

showers

Estimated Averages of June.

Barometer.
Highest I Lowest.
30.46 29.60

Thermometer.

High. I Low. I Mean.

90 37 58.7

Real Average Temperature of the Period.

Highest.
61.484

Lowest.
46.645

Mean.
54.064

Weather and Phenomena.

May 23. Showers, chiefly in the previous night.
24. Sprinkle; fine gleams; a fine sola halo 25.
Fine, a steady current ; lulling. 26. Fine clouds;
change at hand. 27. Showers and hail. 28, 29,
30. Showery— thunder on 30th. 31, Fine;
Eastern change.

Lunation.— New Moon, 26th day, 8h. 47 m.
evening.

June 1. A beautiful but forcibly windy day, end-
ing in wet mght. 2. Small rain many hours. 3.
Variable. 4. Cold steady current. 5. Variable;
gleams. 6 and 7. Overcast; current of cold wind.
8. more genial, with gleams. 9. Variable, 10.
A few drops. 11. Double current, lower clouds
passing rapidly. 12. A few drops of rain, 13.

Showers and thunder at 1 o'clock p.m. 14, Genial
much cirrus, and a half solar halo. 15. Drizzle
all day. 16. Several showers ; a most gloomy
season. 17. Fine and genial; cool evening. 18.
Finest; red N.W. glow at sunset. 19. Cloudy
masses; gleams; a few drops. 20. Fine genial
day. 21, Fine forenoon, damp and drizzling
evening.

Lunations. — First quarter, 4th day, 0 h, 40m
morning. Full, 10th day, 11 h. 30 m. night. Last
quarter, I7th day, 2 h. 14 m. afternoon.

Remarks connected w^ith Agriculture.
— Here we find a cool but equable temperature,
three or more degrees below the average of June.
There has been a plentiful supply of rain, but rather
a paucity of sun. Aphis bhght abounds upon gar-
den produce, and on fruit-bearing shrubs : I hear
of none upon field crops. On the 1st of June, I
observed wheat clearly showing the seed joint, and
on the 10th many ears had emerged. Barley on
every fine plot (and many there are) was in ear on
the 18th. Oats more in arrear. At this turn of day,
when the sun passes into Cancer about 7 o'clock
p.m., if fine warm weather comes on, there will be
a rapid progress. Much hay is being made, and
some is nearly fit for the rick.

Croydon, June 2Ut. J. Towers,

§2

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

REVIEW OF THE CORN TRADE

DURING THE MONTH OF JUNE.

Though the weather has been favourable during
the last vv^eek or two, the temperature has been
below what is usual in Junej indeed, the first
fortnight was so cold that vegetation made com-
paratively little progress, in proof of which we may
instance the late period at which hay-maliing was
commenced. In the neighbourhood of London
very little grass was cut before the 1 9th, and a
large quantity is scarcely yet fit for the scythe.
The want of rain in April, and the absence of sun-
shine in May and a part of June, prevented the
growth of grass at the proper period, and the crop
will, v/e apprehend, be generally light in quantity,
even if the whole should be well got in. The
shortness of hay may be expected to tell hereafter
on the value of spring corn, and other feeding
stuffs ; and we much fear that we are not to be
favoured with so abundant a year as was at one
period calculated on; even wheat, for which the
season has been more auspicious than for any other
kind of corn, is not nearly so well spoken of as it
was a month ago. The thinness of the plant on
the ground is very generally complained of, and
we are sorry to say that rumours of blight, and
other defects, are by no means rare. The principal
cause for uneasiness in our opinion is, however,
the backwardness of the season, a late harvest
being in our variable climate always precarious.

In travelling through the country about the
middle of the month, scarcely a wheat-ear was to
be seen; and as it is generally allowed that at
least two months are required from the time the
ear is formed before the corn can be expected to
arrive at maturity, reaping is not likely to be com-
menced before the second or third week in August,
if we except a few early pieces of Talavera. The
estimates of the probable result of the harvest are
not nearly so sanguine as they were some time ago,
but to this we do not attach much importance, as
opinion on this subject usually runs to extremes.
The probability is, that should we be favoured with
a hot July, we might have a good average crop of
wheat, notwithstanding the admitted thinness of
the plant, and some other defects, as the breadth
of land under wheat is certainly greater than in
ordinary seasons.

The spring-sown crops have certainly suffered
owing to the want of rain during the spring and
early part of the summer, and can hardly, under
the most propitious circumstances, yield a large
return.

The foregoing remarks are all that can at present
be said on the subject of the growing crops, and are
only applicable at the time being ; a month may
make a decided change either for the better or
worse — indeed, opinion at this period, when wheat
is not yet in bloom, and other articles are propor-
tionately backward, can be of little real value, and
we therefore deem it useless to go very minutely
into the matter. The course of prices has been
chiefly influenced, since we last addressed our
readers, by the state of the weather ; and this
is likely to be the case from the present time up to
harvest ; still it may be interesting to enter into
other subjects which may have some influence,
such as the stocks on hand, and the probable
extent of the imports. In regard to stocks nothing
has occurred to induce us to alter our previously-
conceived idea in respect to the smallness of the
quantity of grain of home growth remaining in the
country. The test which we have at different
periods employed, to prove that the deficiency of
the last wheat crop was fully as great as estimated
at harvest-time, viz., the sales at the towns return-
ing the averages, continues to show similar results
as before. The returns for the last four weeks,
with those of the corresponding period of last year,
stand as follows —

1854. 1853.

Week ending May 27 65,791 .... 83,327

„ June 3 66,083 76,640

„ » 10 51,182 87,633

„ 17 .... 47,780 .... 98,824

At the same time the reports from all parts of
the kingdom agree in stating that the rick-
yards have been nearly cleared out; and when
we take into consideration the strong inducement
which the high prices prevailing throughout the
year must have held out to farmers to realize —
more especially as it has been very generally
thought that these would probably not be main-
tained after the new crop should have been secured
— it can hardly be questioned that, as far as home-
grown wheat is concerned, stocks are all but ex-
hausted. In reference to foreign the case is, how-
ever, different : large as have been the requirements
of Great Britain, the supplies from abroad have
more than kept pace with our wants, and at several
of the principal ports fair stocks are still held ; but
it must be recollected that old wheat will be re-
quired after harvest, and that we have still eight or
ten weeks' consumption to provide for, before the

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

new can be brought into use, even in moderate
quantities. It strikes us, therefore, that in case any
material decrease should take place in the imports,
the quantity at present in warehouse here, at Liver-
pool, Bristol, and a few other ports, would scarcely
suffice to guard against scarcity; and it conse-
quently becomes a question of importance to ascer-
tain, as far as possible, whether there is any pros-
pect of such decrease in the foreign supplies. We
made a somewhat similar examination to that we
are now about to enter upon, last month ; but cir-
cumstances have since occurred which make a
material alteration in the position of affairs. At
that time shipments of wheat and flour were still
being made from France and Belgium to England.
These have now ceased, and about the middle of
the month purchases to some extent were made in
the EngUsh markets on French account. We are
not disposed to attach any great importance to
what may be actually taken for France from hence ;
but the mei'e fact of supplies from thence being
entirely stopped, must have a material influence,
more especially as a portion of what might other-
wise have reached us from other countries is likely
to be directed to French ports, where prices are
more remunerative than in the English markets.
In the neighbouring kingdom of Belgium the
stores have already been cleared out by French
purchasers, and the latest advices from Hamburgh
state that buyers had also made their appearance
there, who had outbid the limits of the few English
orders received. Whether this state of things will
continue, or whether the French demand will prove
only transitory, we are not in a position to deter-
mine; but that no further shipments will in the
first instance be made from thence appears tolerably
certain.

Meanwhile nothing has occurred to lead to the
belief that the northern ports of Europe will be able
to afford us further aid of importance until after the
new crop shall have become available. In the Bal-
tic stocks are, we are told, reduced into a narrower
compass than on any previous occasion for years
past. From the south, more particularly from
Spain and Portugal, we have lately received some
supplies; but, as France is now paying higher
prices than England, these can scarcely be ex-
pected to continue. We have, therefore, only
America to look to ; and, though we are induced
to receive the reports from thence of the almost
total exhaustion of stocks with some degree of
caution, still the official shipping lists cannot admit
of doubt, and by these it is plainly proved that the
exports had greatly fallen off.

Our position appears to us to be this : The pro-
spect for the harvest not particularly promising ;
though, on the other hand, sufficiently so to war-

rant the expectation of a good average yield of
wheat. Stocks of home-grown corn of all kinds un-
usually low ; those of foreign good, but not more
than may, and probably will, be needed, with little
prospect of a large addition being made to
the same by foreign importations this side of
harvest.

With favourable weather, prices might never-
theless give way, more or less, for wheat, flour,
and Indian corn. Barley, beaiis, and peas, being
little required at this period of the year, will proba-
bly not vary in value until the fate of the forth-
coming crops shall have been ascertained ; but
oats will, we think, bring higher prices during the
next month or two than have yet been realized.

Here we will close our remarks in regard to the
probable future, and proceed to give our usual
monthly statement of the changes which have taken
place at Mark Lane.

The arrivals of English wheat into the port of
London have been even smaller than they were last
month, the receipts coastwise having scarcely ave-
raged 1,500 qrs. per week. The supplies received
per railway have fallen off in the same proportion,
and the millers have had to depend mainly on the
arrivals from abroad for what they have needed
from day to day. Notwithstanding the insignifi-
cance of the supply, buyers have shown no signs
of being in want ; and the tendency of prices has,
on the whole, been downwards. The little busi-
ness v/hich was done in English wheat on the 5th
inst. was at barely the rates of that day se'nnight ;
and on the succeeding Monday a decline of Is. per
qr. was in partial instances submitted to. The fol-
lowing week some slight influence Vv'as produced by
the animated accounts from France, and the reduc-
tion was recovered. The weather, which had up
to that period been dull and cold for the season,
improved about the 21st inst,, and tte advices
from France having become more subdued, the
trade opened very heavily on Monday last. Fac-
tors for a time refused to lower their pretensions,
but the millers succeeded ultimately in purchas-
ing at an abatement of Is. ro 2s. per qr.

The arrivals of wheat from abroad have not much
exceeded one-half of the quantity received in the
month of May, but we have not had so active a
country demand, and the granaried stocks have
scarcely been diminished so much as might have
been expected. A considerable proportion of the
supply has been from quarters from which we are
not generally in the habit of receiving imports.
This tends, in our opinion, to prove that those
countries which in ordinary years furnish us with
supplies have nearly exhausted their resources,
and that the expectation of high prices has led
parties not usually in the habit of sending to

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

England to embark in the adventure. The total
import has fallen short of 50,000 qrs.; whilst the
exports to France have amounted to 15,000 or
20,000 qrs.

During the first fortnight in'the month, the trade
in foreign wheat was very languid ; and though
prices were not generally quoted lower, they gra-
dually gave way about Is. per qr. On the 19th
inst. an inquiry for France — of which there had
been symptoms for some days previous — became
more decided, and several purchases ^vere made
at rates which could not previously have been
obtained ; even this failed, however, to induce our
millers to act, and as soon as the export demand
subsided, which was the case before the close of
the week, the slight advance realized during the
temporary excitement was again lost. Since then
the anxiety to effect sales has increased, and on
Monday last, the 26th inst., holders were dis-
posed to accept lower terms than they would
have taken at any previous period since we last
addressed our readers, a decline of Is. to 2s. per qr,
being generally submitted to, without leading to
important transactions.

The arrivals of wheat off the coast from ports
east of Gibraltar have been comparatively small
since the close of last month, and most of the
cargoes which have come to hand have been dis-
posed of one way or the other. Some have been
taken for the Continent, others for Ireland, and
the remainder has been consigned, on owners'
account, to London, Liverpool, &c. The opera-
tions in floating cargoes have been altogether on a
moderate scale, and the prices obtained have not
been equal to those current in May. The finer
descriptions have commanded relatively better
prices than the common sorts, and the last sale
of Marianopoli we have heard of was at 74s. per
qr. There are at present not more than about a
dozen cargoes off the coast undisposed of, and the
arrivals from the east will in all probability be very
trifling. A few vessels have lately been chartered
to fetch wheat from Syria, but these cannot return
for at least two months.

The sale for town-manufactured flour has been
exceedingly difficult throughout the month, and
the millers have found the competition with
American very annoying. The nominal top price
has not varied ; but that lower terms have in many
cases been accepted cannot be doubted. London
household flour has been generally offered, within
the last eight or ten days, at Is. to 2s. per sack below
the rates current in the commencement of the
month, and country marks have receded during the
same period fully 2s. per sack. The arrivals of flour
from America have not been large ; but having had
a fair quantity from Spain, the supply has about

kept pace with the demand. In consequence of a
few purchases on French account about the middle
of the month, an advance of 1 s. per brl. was es-
tablished on superior qualities of American ; but
this improvement has since been lost, and quota-
tions are nearly the same at present as they were at
the close of May, viz., 39s. to 40s. for good, and
41s. to 42s. per brl. for fine brands. Stocks in
granary at this port have been materially reduced,
and superior sorts are becoming scarce. At
Liverpool the quantity of American flour in ware-
house is still considerable ; but as the receipts from
the other side of the Atlantic will in all probability
be small, the quantity is likely to be speedily
diminished.

The receipts of English barley have been per-
fectly insignificant : this grain is, however, little
needed during the summer months, when the
brewers and distillers are out of the market. Unim-
portant therefore as have been the supplies, they
have proved amply sufficient to provide for the
demand ; and though no quotable alteration has
taken place in prices, the turn has been decidedly
against the seller. The supply of foreign barley
has been quite moderate. In the early part of the
month about a dozen small cargoes arrived from
Denmark, &c. ; but during the last fortnight the
receipts have been trivial. There has,'however, been
a total want of activity in the demand, and im-
porters have been compelled to land the greater
part of what has come to hand, for want of buyers ;
indeed, so little has been done, that it has become
difficult to give quotations with any degree of ac-
curacy ; but that purchases might have been made
on easier terms than would have been accepted last
month cannot be questioned.

Malt has met with very little attention, and its
value has undergone no change requiring particular
notice.

Arrivals of oats from our own coast and Scot-
land have almost ceased ; and though the wind has
been mostly from the westward, barely 20,000 qrs.
have arrived during the entire month from Ireland.
The foreign supplies, which were previously toler-
ably good, have within the last fortnight fallen off
materially, and we have reason to believe that the
quantity now on passage from Denmark, Sweden,
and Holland is comparatively trifling. No blockade
of the White Sea having as yet been enforced, it is
possible that a moderate supply may reach us from
Archangel under neutral flags, but the quantity
will certainly be much less than usual. Many of
the vessels which have gone out will, if allowed to
return, bring flax and other commodities ; but it is
not by any means certain that the blockade may
not have been established in the intervening time.
The oat trade opened somewhat languidly in the

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

beginning of the month, owing mainly to the
announcement made by Sir James Graham in the
House, that it was not the intention of Government
to institute an immediate blockade of the White
Sea. The possibility of supplies reaching ns from
thence induced the dealers to operate more cau-
tiously than they might otherwise have done ; and
good arrivals having about this time come to hand
from the Dutch, Danish, and Swedish ports, prices
gave way at least Is. per qr. From this point there
has been a gradual improvement. The chances of
Archangel supply being received are not consi-
dered to be very great; and as it is almost certain
that the stocks in Holland have been exhausted,
the conviction is gaining ground that there will be
a scarcity of old oats before the new can be fit for
use. Good Danish and Swedish feed, such as were
sold at about 28s. to 29s. per qr. at the period when
the depression was greatest, are now worth 30s. per
qr., and there are but few free-on-board offers from
any quarter. The dealers' stocks have been ma-
terially reduced within the la^t two or three weeks,
and the quantity on board ship undisposed of is
insignificant.

Beans have met with very little attention; and,
though the home supplies, as well as the arrivals
from abroad, have been small, considerable difficulty
has been experienced in making sales at about
previous prices. The growing crop is variously
spoken of; within the last few days the complaints
of blight have increased.

The inquiry for peas has been of a strictly retail
character ; and, in the absence of business of
importance, quotations have remained nominally
imaltered.

The arrivals of Indian corn off the coast have
not been particularly large; but good supplies from
America are calculated on, which, together with the
drooping state of the wheat trade, have rendered
importers rather anxious to sell, and the tendency
of prices has been decidedly downwards.

By the most recently received advices from the
continent we learn that the weather, which had been
cold and ungenial in the early part of the month,
had become highly auspicious for the growing crops.
The favourable change appears to have taken place
previous to wheat coming into ear, and therefore
just in time to be of immense service. The reports
as to the appearance of the crops of all kinds of
grain are very satisfactory from the countries
bordered by the Baltic; and, if nothing should
occur to mar the bright prospect, a large yield and
fine quality may be calculated on in that quarter.

The advices from France and Belgium are not so
favourable. Very heavy rain appears to have fallen
in those countries up to the commencement of last
week; and vegetation being more forward there than

in the northern parts of Europe, the wet came very
inopportunely, a considerable portion of the wheat
crop being then in bloom. "What may be the re-
sult cannot be known for some time ; but some of
the farmers, both in France and Belgium, enter-
tained rather gloomy forebodings.

In Italy harvest was about to be commenced,
and a good return was expected, notwithstanding
the extreme drought which had been experienced in
the early part of the summer.

The accounts from America do not enter very
minutely into the prospects for the ensuing harvest ;
but in the absence of complaints, we may conclude
with tolerable safety that the prospects were con-
sidered pretty good. The reduced state of the
stocks of old corn in almost all the principal
grain-growing countries in the world render the
foreign markets less sensitive to the fluctuations
in prices here than usual ; the flat reports from
Great Britain in the beginning of the month failed
therefore to produce much effect abroad.

In the Baltic former terms were steadily main-
tained ; whilst in France, prices continued to rise,
in the face of falling markets here.

From Danzig, we learn that equal to 75s. to 80s.
per qr. free on board had been paid for good to fine
high-mixed wheat, and that the commoner descrip-
tions had realized corresponding rates. The entire
quantity in warehouse at that port on the 1st inst.
consisted of 30,000 qrs., of which only a com-
paratively small proportion was of suitable quality
for shipment. During the month, more than half
the available stock had been sent off, partly to Hol-
land and France, and partly to Great Britain, leav-
ing very little on hand.

The supplies down the Vistula had been exceed-
ingly small, higher prices having been paid at
Warsaw than had been obtainable at Danzig.

From Stettin, Rostock, Stralsund, &c., we re-
ceive the most favourable reports, in regard to the
appearance of the growing crops ; but owing to the
reduced state of the stocks, less influence had been
produced by this state of affairs on the markets
than usual ; in fact, prices had rather risen than
otherwise, in consequence of the receipt of a few
orders for the purchase of wheat from France at
high limits. It would therefore not be easy to buy
wheat at any of the Lower Baltic ports under 70s. per
qr. free on board at present ; and from Rostock we
learn that contracts had been entered into for de-
livery after harvest, at the high rate of 72s. per qr.
free on board.

The near ports have been more under the influ-
ence of the advices from hence ; and at Hamburg,
on Tuesday last, wheat was offered on lower terms
than had been paid on that day week; it would,
however, scarcely pay to import from thence, as

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

equal to 748. per qv. continued to be paid for Meck-
lenburg wheat for home consumption.

There appears to be very little barley, and no oatB,
at any of the places above referred to ; but in Den-
mark some quantity of both these kinds of grain re-
mains : Danish barley weighing 53 to 54lbs. per
bush, might be bought at 30s. 6d. per qr,, free on
board 5. but oats cannot be purchased either in
Sweden or Denmark below 28s. per qr., cost and
freight, for 39 to 40lbs.

In the early part of the month, a rapid rise took
place in prices of wheat in almost all the French
markets, and though the upward movement has
within the last ten days received a check, quotations
are higher in that country than in England. Stocks
of flour at Paris, which a couple of months ago
amounted to upwards of 40,000, have dwindled
down to 1 5,000 metrical quintals, and at Havre and
the other ports where the great bulk of the
American flour was held, the quantity has been re-
duced fully one half. At the markets in the interior
dependent on the growers for supplies, the rise has
been greater than at those places where foreign
stocks were held ; indeed, the farmers through-
out France appear to have parted with all they
have been able to scrape together, and the new
crop will have to be commenced upon as soon as
harvested.

The advices from the other side of the Atlantic
confirm what had been previously stated, in regard
to the smallness of the supplies from the interior to
the ports on the sea-board, and though the demand
for wheat and flour for export had been slow at
New York, Philadelphia, Boston, &c., the enquiry
for local use had been sufficiently active to prevent
prices giving way materially, and it would certainly
not pay to import from thence. From New York,
we learn that duty had been paid on part of the
flour which arrived from time to time from Canada
in bond, for local use, instead of being (as would
have been the case under ordinary circumstances),
reserved for exportation.

IMPERIAL AVERAGES.

For the last Six Weeks.

Week Ending:

May 13, 1854..

May 20, 1854..

May 27, 1854..

June 3, 1854..

June 10,1354..

June 17,1854..
Aggregate average
of last six weeks
Comparative avge.
same time lastyear
Duties,, .

Wheat.

Barley.

Oats.

Rye.

Beans

s. d.

3. d.

s. d.

78 9

37 1

29 5

52 1

48 9

78 2

37 2

29 4

48 6

49 3

78 9

37 1

29 11

53 11

49 4

79 11

36 9

29 10

48 7

48 6

78 9

37 1

30 8

49 3

49 1

78 3

37 3

29 5

48 11

49 10

78 9

37 1

29 9

50 3

49 3

i44 1

30 2

18 10

33 0

37 0

i 1 0

1 0

i 0

1 0

Peas.
s. d.

46 9

47 2
44 7

46 10

47 4
6

46 6

33 6
1 0

CURRENCY PER IMPERIAL MEASURE.

Shilling:) per Qusrter

76 to 73 fine 80 86
— — fine 86 88

41
36

extra

Potato 35
31 fine
29 fine

82
85
80
43
39
74
73
77
76
34
37
33
31

50
52
54
62
46
68
60
56

Wheat, Essei and Kent, white. .

Ditto ditto — —

Ditto ditto red ....... . 74 79

Ditto ditto. — —

Norfolk, Lincohi.&Yorksh., red.. 70 76

Barley, malting, new. . 40 41 .... Chevalier.
DistiUing . . 37 39 Grinding.

Malt, Essex, Norfolk, and Suffolk, new 71 72

Ditto ditto old 69 70

Kingston, Ware, and town made,uew7 5 76

Ditto ditto old 73 75

Oats, English feed . . 28 31 Potato.

Scotch feed, new 32 33, old 34 35 .
Irish feed, white .............. SO

Ditto, black 23

Rye none — —

Beans, Mazagan , 42 44 „

Ticks 44 46 „

Harrow. 46 48 „

Pigeon 46 52 „

Peas, white boilers 57 58. . Maple 47 49 Grey

Flour, town made, per sack of 280 lbs. — — „

Households, Town 613. 62s. Country — „

Norfolk and Suffolk, ex-ship ....-— — „

FOREIGN GRAIN.

ShiUinjifa per Quarter

Wheat, Dan tzic, mixed. . 80 to 81 highmixed 84 86extra89

Konigsberg 78 80 „ — 81 „ 84

Rostock, new i 80 81 fine 82 „ 85

Ame.icaa, white 81 86 red 78 81

Pomera.,Meckbg,,andUckermk.,red 76 79 extra.. 81

Silesian „ 76 79whiteS0 81

Danish and Holstcin ........ „ 76 SI „ none

Rhine and Belgium „ — — old — —

Odessa, St. Petersburg and Riga. . 69 72 fine 72 75

Barley, grinding 35 38 Distilling,. 39 41

Oats, Dutch, brew, and Rolands 30s., 333. .. Feed .. 27 29
Danish & Swedish feed 29s. to 3l3. Stralsund 30 82

Russian 31 32 French., none

Beans, Friesland and HolsteLn 42 48

Konigsberg.. 47 50 ,. Egyptian.. 45 47

Peas, feeding 50 54 fine boilers 55 58

Indian Corn, white 45 48 yellow 45 48

Flour, French, per sack (none) — — ■ none — —
American, sour per barrel 37 39 sweet 40 44

COMPARATIVE PRICES AND QUANTITIES

OF CORN.

Averages from last Friday's

Wheat.,
Barley, ,
Oata . .
Rye....
Beans , .
Peas , .

Gazette,

Qrs.

47,780

3,508

9,347

2,424

218

nda

VSi

Av. 1

Averages from the correspond-

ing Gazelle in 1853

Av.

Qrs.

s. d.

Wheat,,.. 98,824 ..

45 0

Barley.... 4,104 ..

29 1

Oats .... 15,180 ..

18 11

Rye 309 ..

30 11

Beans.,.. 3,884 ..

38 11

Peas .... 272 ..

S4 6

DIAGRAM SHOWING THE FLUCTUATIONS IN THE
AVERAGE PRICE OF WHEAT during the six
WEEKS ending Junb 17, 1854.

LONDON AVERAGES.

£ s. d.

Wheat
Barley
Oata , .

1,128 qrs. 4 1 5
162 1 15 0

3,617 1 9 10 j Peas .,

£ s. d.
Rye .... — qrs. 0 0 0
Beans.... 154 2 6 7

2 10 3

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

PRICES OF SEEDS.

BRITISH SEEDS.
Linseed (per qr.). . sowing — s. to 763. ; crashing 60s. to 643.

Linseed Cakes (per ton) , £10 Os. to £10 lOs.

Rapeseed (per qr.) 70s. to 803.

Ditto Cake (per ton) £6 15s. to £7 Sa.

Cloverseed (per cwt.) (nominal) .... OOs. to OOs

Mustard (per bush.) whitenew lOs.to 14s., brown old lOs.to 13s.

Coriander (per cwt.) new lOs. to ISs., old 10s. to 15s.

Canary- (per qr.) 50s. to 54s.

Carraway (per cwt.) ■... new 423. to 44s., old 44s. to 48s.

Turnip, white (per bush.) — s. to — s Swede 24s. to 38s.

Trefoil (per cwt.) OOs. to OOs.

Cow Grass (per cwt.) OOs. to OOs.

FOREIGN SEEDS, &c.

Unseed (per qr.) Baltic, 64s. to 68s. ; Odessa, 66s. to 70s.

linseed Cake (per ton) £9 10s. to £10 lOs.

Rape Cake (per ton) £6 15s. to £7 5s.

Hempseed, small, (per qr.).. — s., Ditto Dutch, 44s.

Tares (per qr.) new, small 58s., large 64s.

Rye Grass (jpet qr.) , 28s. to SSs.

HOP MARKET.
BOROUGH, Monday, June 26.
Throughout the past week the accounts from the plantations
have continued to come unfavourable. The market has been
active, and considerable business has been done. Prices have
been firmly maintained, and fine qualities have realized an
advance on last week's rates. Hart & Wilson.

The import of hops into London, last week, amounted to 4
bales from Rotterdam, 140 from Hambro', 18 from Ostend,
and 16 from Antwerp.

WORCESTER, (Saturday last.)— The blight is making sad
havoc amongst the hops in our plantation, and before another
week is past, unless we have a great change for the better, a
large portion will have sunk under its effects. The market
has advanced lOs. to 12s. to day, and prices may now be quoted
from £8 to £9 9s. ; choice £10.

MAIDSTONE, June 22.— The weather has, during the
last few days, been somewhat more favourable; but even
should it continue, which is doubtful, very much remains to
be done before the hops can at all recover the ill effects of the
high winds and cold nights, and the ravages of the vermin.
The bine grows vigorously at places, and in most plantations
(including the far-famed College ground) there is an evident
improvement. Still there is a wonderful quantity of fly and
lice, together with some honey-dew. The duty is variously
estimated ; but the general opinion seems to be that it will
not pay more than £100,000, some tliink not so much.

Farnham, June 22. — We have not much alteration to
report. The flys seem as thick as ever, and in a great many
places the hops are very dark ; in most places they are topping
the poles. We have had one or two very fine days. — Sussex
Express.

PRICES OF BUTTER, CHEESE, HAMS, &c.

J}uftcr,per civt,
Friesland ..

Kiel

Doriet 100

Carlom —

Water/ord .... —

Cork, new 84

Limerick — —

Slif/o — —

Frc»?t, per doz. lis. Od, ISs.Od.

88i!o 90
9i 98
104

Cheese, per crot.

Cheshire, nem.,,.

Chedder

Double Gloucester

Single do. , .
Hams, York, new.,,.

Westmoreland . . .

Irish

Bacon, WiUshire,green

Waterford

66 to 80
68 80

ENGLISH BUTTER MARKET.

June 26th.
We note our trade as firm, at former prices.

Dorset, fine weelcly 96s. to 98*. per cwt.

Do., middling . e 84s. to SSs. „

Fresh, per dozen lbs 9s. to lis.

BELTAST, (Friday Iast.)--Butter : Shipping price, 863.
to 90s. per cwt.; firkins and crocks, 8-^-d.to 9|d. per lb.
Bacon, 54s. to 60s.; Hams, prime 683. to 74s., second quality,
60s. to 64s. per cwt.; mess Pork, 87s. 6d. to 90s. per brl. ;
beef, 105s. to 112s. 6d.; Irish Lard, in bladders, 66s. to 70a.;
kegs or firkins, 623, to 64s. per cwt.

Sutter.

Bacon.

Dried Hams,

Mess Fork.

June

per crot.

per crut.

per cwt.

per brl.

23.

s. d. s. d.

S. d. B. d.

s. d. s. d.

1850..

67 0 70 0

37 0 40 0

56 0 70 0

60 0 62 0

1851..

70 0 74 0

45 0 47 0

63 0 66 0

64 0 66 0

1852. .

74 0 78 0

44 0 48 0

56 0 60 0

77 6 82 0

1853..

80 0 86 0

58 0 60 0

74 0 78 0

85 0 87 6

1854..

86 0 90 0

54 0 6D 0

68 0 74 0

87 0 90 0

COVENT GARDEN MARKET.

Saturday, June 24.
All kinds of Vegetables are now abundant. New Grapes are
cheaper. Cherries realize from 6d. to 2s. 6d. per lb. French
Cherries have been poor in quality, and consequently the sale for
them has been slow, even at low prices. Strawberries ai'e much
more plentiful. Cucumbers vary from 3d. to Is. each. Very
good Potatoes are coming in from Kent and Cornwall, at prices
varying from I3s. to 203. per cwt. Asparagus continues to come
in at OS. to 53. per hundrtd. Carrots and Turnips are cheaper.
Among salad vegetables are Radishes at from Id. to 2d. per
bunch; and Lettuces at Sd. to Is. per score. There are also
excellent Carrots, Globe Artichokes, and Peas from France;
likewise Tomatoes at from 9s. to J 3s. a dozen. Cut flowers
consist of Azaleas, Cyclamens, Heaths, Lily of the Valley,
Pinks, and Roses.

FRUIT.

Pineapples ,j)erlb., is. to 10s.
Grapes, hothouse, p. Ib.Ss. to 7s.
,, Portugal,p.lb.,ls.6d.to3s.
Peaches, x>er doz., 8s. to 20s.
Nectarines, do., 8s. to 20«.
Melons, each, Ss. to 6s.
Strawberries, per lb.. Is. to 3s
Gooseberries, green, per half
sieve, 'is. to 3s. I

Lemons , per doz.. Is. to 2s. |

Apples, per bus7i.,7s. to 12s.

„ des.,per doz., 6d. to Is.
Oranges, pier 100, 5s. to 14s.

,, bitter, p. lM,-2Qs.
Almonds, per peek, 6s.

., sweet, per lb., is. to2s.Sd.
Wain., dried, p. 100, Is. 6d.
Nuts, Bar., 2}er bush.,2is.to24:S.
„ Brazil, xi. bash., 16s. to20s.
„ SxJanisJi, per bush., 22s.

VEGETABLES.

Peas, per bushel, Ss. 6d. to 6s.
Caulijtowers, 2)er doz., is.to 4s.
Cabbages, per doz., 9d. to ls.6d
Greens, per doz., 2s. to is.
French Beans, p. IGO, 9d to2s6d
Asparagus, 2Jer bundle, 2s to 5s
Hhubayb, per bund.,3d.to6d
Potatoes, per ton, 180s. to 240s.

„ per cjvt.,7s.tolOs.

„ per bush., is. to 5s.

„ frame, per lb., 9d. to Is.
Carrots, French, per bunch,

6d. to Is.
Turnips new, do., 6d. to 9d.
Cucutnbers,each,3d. to Is.
Spinach, p. sieve. Is. to Is. 6d.
Beet, each, id. to 6d.
Onions, per bush, 8s. to 10s.
Lechs, per bunch, 2d. to id.

Shallots, per lb.,6d. to 8d.
Garlic, per lb., Bd. to Is.
Endive, jier doz, 2s. to is.
Radishes, per doz., Is. to 2s.
Lettuce, Cab., p. score,'Jdtols6d.

,, Cos, jicr score, 9d. to Is.
Small Salads, J}, pun., 2d to 3d.
Horseradish, p. bundle, 2s.tois.
Mushrooms, J]. pott., Qd to ls3d
Sorrel, X). hf. sieve, 6d. to Is.
Artichokes, each, id. to (d.
Fennel, per bunch, 2d. to 3d.
Savory, per bunch, 2<Z. to id.
Thyme, per bunch, 6d. to 8d.
Parsley, p. bunch. Id. to 6d.
Basil,green, jyer bunch, Qd.toXs.
Marjoram, green, do., 9d.to\s.
Watercress, p. 12bun.,id to 6d.

POTATO MARKETS.
BOROUGH AND SPITALFIELDS.

Monday, June 26.

The supply of old potatoes continues seasonably good,
but the demand is heavy at from 100s. to I90s. per ton.
New qualities are coming freely to hand. New English
are selling at from 10s. to 12s. per cwt. ; and foreign,
7s. 6d. to 8s. 6d. per basket.

COUNTRY POTATO MARKETS.— York, June 17:
At this day's market we had a very small supply of old Pota-
toes, which sold at 63. 6d. per bushel — Is. 6d. to Is. 8d. per
peck. A moderate show of new Potatoes sold at from lOd. to
12d. per quart. Leeds, June 20 : We had a very small show
of old Potatoes. Wholesale, 22d. ; retail, 24d. per 211bs.
A few new Potatoes sold at 3d. per lb. Malton, June 17 :
We had a short supply of Potatoes, which sold at 16d. Don-
caster, June 17 : A small supply of old and new Potatoes,
with plenty of buyers. Old, about 2s. per peck ; new, 3Jd. to
4cl. per lb. Richmond, June 17 : Old Potatoes, Is. 2d. per
stone; new ditto, 5d. per lb. Manchester, June 20: Old
Potatoes, 14s. 6d. to 22s. ; new ditto, 21s. to 483. per 2521bs.
Sheffield, June 20: Old Potatoes, 16s. to 243. per load of
18 stones ; new ditto, IBs. to 21s. per lOOlbs.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

HAY MARKETS.

Saturday, June 24.
SMITHPIELD. — A moderate supply, and a dull trade.
CUMBERLAND.— Supply tolerably good, and trade rather dull.
WHITECHAPEL.— Both hay and straw moved off slowly, at
our quotations.

At per load of ZQ trusses.
Smithfield. Cumberland. Whitechapel.
Meadotv Hay 50s. to 100*. [ 52s. to 105s. 50«. to 100s.

Clover 70s. ]20s. 70s. 120s. 70s. 120s.

Strarv 36s. 42s. 36s. 42s. 36s. 42s.

CHICORY.

LONDON, Saturday. June 24.

Since our last report, several rather large parcels of Chicory
have reached us from the North, and we havo had an import of
200 hugs Irom Guernsey, and 210 do.from Harlingen. Generally
speaking, the demand is in a sluggish state, at our quotations.

Per ton.
Foreign root {in £ s, £ s. \ £ s. £ s.

bond)HarUngen\0 10 11 Q \ltoasted ^ ground
English rootifree) \ English 15 0 20 o

Guernsey 9 15 11 0 Foreign 30 0 36 0

York 9 15 11 OJ Guernsey 26 0 28 0

TIMBER.

(Duty paid.)
Baltic Timber, per load of 50 cubic feet..

Yellow Deals per standard 100. . . .

Deck Deals, per 40 feet 3 in

Pipe Staves, per mille

Lathmood, per fatho}n of Q feet ....
Petersburg, Riga, and Archangel >

Yw. Deals, per stand, hundred.. )

White

Yellow Battens

Riga Logs, for 18 feet cube

Stettin Staves, per mille of pipe j...

Swedish Timber, per load

Gothen. Yw. Deals, per hun. 12ft.3in.9in,

White ditto

Yw. Battens, per hd. 12ft. 2jm. 7in.
ChristianiaYw. Deals 2}er hd.l2ft.Sin.9in

White ditto

Quebec and St. John's Spruce Deals, \
per hundred, 12 ft. Sin. 9in. . . )

Istqualityyjv .Pine Deals, per st.hd

Second do. do. .,

Third do. do.

Red Pi7ie Deals per hdA2ft.Zin.9in

Red Pine Timber, per load

Yellow ditto

Birch ditto

Elm ditto

Oak ditto

Standard Staves, per mille Standard. , . ,
Puncheon Staves, per mille

MAHOGANY, &C.

Mahogany, St. Domingo ,

Ciiba

Honduras .*•...,

Cedar i^....Hava7i7ia

Rosewood ..Rio

Bahia .,

£ s.

d. £ s. d.

3 3

0 to 4 10 0

15 0

0 .. 20 0 0

1 2

0 .. 1 10 0

130 0

0 ..190 0 0

10 0

0 .. 12 10 0

19 0

0 .. 23 0 0

15 0

0 .. 17 0 0

19 0

0 .. 21 0 0

3 10

0 .. 5 0 0

70 0

0 ..180 0 0

3 5

0 .. 3 10 0

. 26 0

0 .. 30 0 0

23 0

0 .. 27 0 0

14 0

0 .. 17 0 0

. 27 0

0 .. 35 0 0

26 0

0 .. 33 0 0

22 0

0 .. 25 0 0

. 18 0

0 .. 21 0 0

15 0

0 .. 16 10 0

H 10

0 .. 15 0 0

. 23 0

0 .. 26 0 0

4 10

0 .. 6 0 0

3 15

0 .. 5 10 0

4 10

0 .. 6 10 0

7 0

0 .. 8 0 0

7 0

0 .. 9 0 0

67 10

0 .. 80 0 0

17 0

0 .. 24 0 0

. Sd to 1' *''' ■""» ^'">'

, 7

fe "^

1 6

.6*

0 8§

il2

£2 per ton.

8 10 20

HIDE AND SKIN MARKETS.

Saturday, June 24.

s. d. g. d.

Market Hides, &6 to 6i Iba 0 3 toO Z\perlb

Do. 64 12lbs 0 8J 0 3| „

Do. 72 %OlbS 0 3i 0 0 „

Do. 80 88i&s 0 3J 0 3^ „

Do. 88 96lbs 0 3i 0 4 „

HorseHides 6 6 0 0 each.

Calf Skins, light 2 0 3 0 „

Do. full 5 6 0 0 „

Lambs 2 0 2 10 „

Shearlings 1 6 1 6 „

WOOL MARKETS.
ENGLISH WOOL MARKET.
Monday, June 26. — A few parcels of English wool have
been disposed of for shipment to Belgium; but so few trans-
actions have taken place for home use, that the quotations are
almost nominal, The stock in London is accumulating, and

to effect large sales, further depressed rates must be sub-
mitted to.

Southdown Hoggets
Half-bred Hoggets
Elves, cJothing
Kent Fleeces , .
Combing Skins
Flannel Wool. .
Blanket Wool
Leicester Fleeces

s. a.

1 0

—

0 11

—

0 11

—

1 0

—

0^-

0 101

—

0 10

—

0 7

—

0 10

—

YORK WOOL MARKETS, June 22.— At this the sixth
market for this year's clip we had about 430 sheets of wool,
being about 100 less than last week. The market was, per-
haps, one of the dullest ever witnessed, yet nearly all the wool
was sold, at from 9d. to 12d. per stone below last week's rates ;
no doubt caused by dear provisions, the state of the Eastern
war, the imposition of war taxes, the high rate of discounts,
and the many and heavy failures in Bradford, tialifax, and
the neighbourhood, which is the seat of the manufacture of
our Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, and English wools generally.
Cotted fleeces, locks, and moor wools have slow demand, and,
except in very clean condition, are very difficult to sell, because
East India wools, which always come over in the very cleanest
condition, take their place iu our blanket manufactories. —
Yorkshire Gazette.

LIVERPOOL WOOL MARKET, June 24.
Scotch Wool. — There is decidedly more doing in Laid
Highland Wool ; several parcels held over since last clip have
been forced on the market, and the prices are lower in conse-
quence. White Highland has also, under similar circum-
stances, found buyers. In Crossed and Cheviots there has been
likewise some business done.

s. d. s. d.

Laid Highland Wool, per 2ilbs 9 OiolO 0

White Highland do...... c. 12 0 13 0

Laid Crossed do.,mi7vashed .... 12 0 12 6

Do. do. .mashed 13 0 14 0

Laid Cheviot do..7in'vashed .... 13 0 15 0

Do. do. .washed ,...». 14 9 17 6

White Cheviot do do...... 22 0 24 0

Foreign Wool.— There was a large attendance of buyers
at the public sales this week, where 10,000 bales were offered ;
but, with the exception of about 6,000 East India, which went
off at former rates, all the other sorts were withdrawn. There
is, however, a better feeling gaining ground that the lowest
point has been seen, and that, although no immediate advance
is anticipated, there will be a fair business at present rates.

MANURES.

London, Monday, June 26.
PRICES CURRENT OF GUANO.

Peruvian&uano per t07i£\l 0 0<o£ll 10 0

„ D. first class {damaged)., „ 10 0 0 10 10 0
Bolivia7i Guano {7ione) „ 0 0 0 0 0 0

ARTIFICIAL MANURES, OIL CAKES, ^x.

Peat Charcoal „ 0 0 0 0 0 0

Nitrate Soda „ 19 0 0 20 0 0

Nitrate Potash or Saltpetre ,, 46 0 0 50 0 0

Sulphate A7nmonia „ 18 0 0 19 0 0

Muriate ditto „ 22 0 0 23 0 0

Superphosphate of Lime „ 60 0 0 00

Soda Ash or Alkali „ 0 0 0 8 0 0

Gypsum „ 2 0 0 2 10 0

Coprolite „ 5 0 0 0 0 0

Sulphate of Copper, or Ro7nan

Vitriolf or Wheat steeping .,. . „ 44 0 0 000

Salt „ 15 0 2 0 0

Bones ii7ic7i per qr. 0 IS 0 0 19 0

„ Dust „ 0 18 6 0 J9 0

Oil Vitriol, concentrated per lb. 0 0 I 0 0 0

„ Brown „ 0 0 Of 0 0 0

Rape Cakes per ton 6 15 0 7 0 0

Li7iseed Cakes —

Thin American in brls. or bags „ 10 17 6 11 10 0

Thick ditto rotmd „ 9 15 0 10 0 0

Marseilles „ 10 0 0 10 5 0

English „ 10 15 0 11 0 0

Printed by Rogerson and Tuxford, 246, Strand, London.

c-/

THE FAEMEE'S MAGAZINE.

AUGUST, 1854,

PLATE I.
HEREFORD STEER.

THE PROPERTY OF MR. WILLIAM HEATM, OF LUDHAM HALL, NORWICH,

The subject of our first plate obtained, at the Birmingham Cattle Show, in December last, the first
prize of Ten Sovereigns, in class 2 j also the Gold Medal and the extra prize of Twenty Sovereigns,
as the best ox or steer in the yard. The breeder, Mr. Thomas Carter, of Dodmore, Ludlow, Salop,
obtained the Silver Medal.

PLATE II.
CATHERINE HAYES,

A CELEBRATED MARE, BRED BY MR. WAUCHOPE,

In 1850, was got by Lanercost, out of Constance, by Partizan, her dam. Quadrille, by Selim— Canary-
bird, Whisker, or Sorcerer — Canary by Coriander.

Catherine Hayes is a brown mare, standing fifteen hands two inches high ; she has a light clean
head and neck, splendid shoulders, and great depth of girth ; good ribs and barrel, with a famous
back, and quarters well let down, drooping a little towards the tail, which is large and bushy. She
has very powerful arms, short gaskins, and beautifully clean hocks. Not over large in the bone, but
wiry and very sound. One striking peculiarity in her formation is the immense depth and size she is
found to be round the heart. She is indeed a very beautiful mare— one of the low and lengthy sort
— with capital temper and action.

AGRICULTURAL METEOROLOGY.

BY CUTHBERT W. JOHNSON, ESQ., F.R.S.

It is not, perhaps, in bright and unclouded
seasons that we are the most willing to inquire into
the mysteries of meteorology. It is rather in such
years as the present — times of cold springs, and
long continued summer showers — that we are led
to ponder over the laborious observations, and,
perhaps, sometimes rather too poetical dreams of
the meteorologist. It will not be uninteresting at
this time if we address ourselves to the subject,
enquire into the probable effects of lowered mean
temperatures, and we may even glance, with some
practical usefulness, upon the indications which
the barometer and other natural phenomena pre-
sent for our instruction.

OLD SERIES.]

There is, indeed, an increasing spirit of enquiry
now abroad on this branch of science— a know-
ledge of the most intense interest to the farmer —
and on the foundation which the Royal Agricul*
tural Society of England suggested, and which Mr.
Whitley, of Truro, so well laid, in his valuable prize
essay on the climate of the British islands, a large
accumulation of important facts is gradually rearing.
A useful paper on this subject is contained in the
last number of the Transactions of the Highland
Society of Scotland, by Sir J. S. Forbes, of Pitsligo
— an essay which, in common with many others
contained in that excellent journal, will well re-pay
the careful perusal of the young farmer. He tells us,
H [VOL. XLI.-No. 3.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

when commenting? upon the close connection which
subsists between the success of our farming aiid
the meteorological phenomena of this country
(ib. 291) that "all our crops usually cultivated have
been originally imported, and are to be considered
exotics. Though now domesticated, the effect of
accUmatising is uncertain, and of very limited ac-
tion, which is ascertained only by long experiment,
with the aid of science, as to the circumstances
under which we may safely trust to receive a remu-
nerative return. Wheat is, probably, a native of
Asia minor, and in Lombardy, where it is completely
naturalized, it enjoys a summer temperature of 73'^;
in Sicily, the ancient granary of Rome, 77°. In
1727 a small field of wheat near Edinburgh was
considered a marvel; and for steady good crops of
wheat a summer heat of at least 59° is required in
ordinary seasons. Below that temperature, in the
west of England, it requires a very dry season.
Thus, in 1840 the spring was cold, which made the
plant tiller; and though "the summer heat was one
degree below the average, it was dry, and produced
a fine crop. The cultivation of wheat is nowhere
pushed at so low an average temperature of sum-
mer heat as in this country; and the consequence
is, as a table of good and bad crops for 70 years
shows, a deficiency of only 2 or 3 degrees of sum-
mer temperature puts the whole crop in jeopardy.
In Scotland, where the summer heat rarely reaches
59^ — the average of twenty-six years, at Hopetoun
House, for example, being only 58° — the length of
the day appears in some degree to compensate for
a low degree of heat; and the crop can be pushed,
in good situations, with tolerable success even at
56^ or 57^."

It is then the mean stimmer temperature which
e.'jerts the greatest influence in ripening the fruits
of the soil — in fact, as Mr. Whitley remarks
Jour. Roy. Ag. Soc. vol. xi., p. 3), the annual mean
temperature of a country is but a slender criterion
from which to form an estimate of its chmate, and
is especially defective when the influence of climate
on vegetation is considered. Penzance and Vienna
have the same mean temperature; but the country
around Vienna — the upper Hungarian plain— has
a summer temperature 10" above Penzance. In
the excessively cold winter of 179G, when the
Thames was frozen, the temperature of the year in
this country fell short of the average by only 1^.
M. Arago states that, in the two years 1815 and
181a, the latter of which was destructive to the crops
in a great part of France, the annual temperature
varied only 2° from the standard. It is more a
change in the distribution of the heat through the
different months, than a change in the mean tem-
perature, that disappoints the expectation of the
husbandman, and causes a scanty crop.

When these observations come before the readers
of this extensively circulated magazine, the proba-
ble nature of the harvest weather to be expected
will be the most interesting of questions, and it
will be now that any aid, however slight, in this
way, will be highly valuable.

The best aid to our enquiries as to the probable
nature of the weather to be expected at any period,
must be derived from a careful observance of the
barometer. The late Mr. John Dalton, of Manches-
ter, gives us as the result of his long continued
meteorological observations in that portion of the
island [Essay, p. 195), the following results : The
barometer, by which we may, in general, be
warned of the approaching weather, is highest
during a long frost, generally rising with a N.E.
wind. It is lowest of all during a thaw following
a long frost, and it is as commonly brought down
by a S.W. wind. When the barometer is near
the highest extreme, for the period of the year,
there is very little probability of immediate rain.
When the barometer is low for the season, there is
seldom a great fall of rain, though a fair day in
such a case is rare. The general tenor of the
weather, at such times, is short, heavy, and sudden
showers, with squalls of wind from the S.W., W.,
or N.W. In summer, after a long continuance
of fair weather, with the barometer high, it gene-
rally falls gradually, and for one, two, or more
days, before there is much appearance of ram ; if
the fall, for the season, is sudden and great, thun-
der will probably follow a depression. Dark
and dense clouds will often pass over without rain
when the barometer is high ; whereas, when the
barometer is low, it sometimes rains, almost with-
out any appearance of clouds. All appearances
being the same, the higher the barometer is, the
greater is the probability of fine weather. Thunder
is almost always preceded by hot weather, and fol-
lowed by cold and showery. A sudden and ex-
treme change in the temperature of the atmosphere,
either from heat to cold, or cold to heat, is gene-
rally followed by rain within 24 hours. In winter,
during a frost, when it begins to snow, the tempe-
rature of the air generally rises to 32°, and
continues there while the snow is falling, after
which, if the weather clears up, severe cold usually
follows. The aurora boreahs is often a prognostic
of fine weather. From a still more extended and
laborious series of observations, Mr. J. H. Belville,
of the Royal Observatory at Greenwich, concludes
(see his valuable Manual of the Barometer) that
"the barometer is periodically, though slightly
affected, during the 24 hours. At 9 a.m. and at 9
p.m. it stands higher, and at 3 a.m. and at 3 p.m.
it stand lower, the mean annual difference amount-
ing to nearly .03 of an inch. The greatest monthly

THE FAllMER'S MAGAZiNii.

mean pressure occurs in June, the lowest in No-
vember. It declines from June till November —
then rises till January—then falls till March,
whence it rises till June. The annual mean at
Greenwich at noon is 29.872 inches. Strong
westerly winds in winter, with a steady high pres-
sure, bring a high temperature, but little rain ; with
easterly winds, a low temperature and frost. Nearly
all our high winds from the south west come with
a falling barometer. If the mercury fall suddenly
and rapidly during a westerly wind, a violent storm
may be expected from the N.W. or N. If the faU
takes place when the wind is W., N.W., or N., a
great decrease of temperature will follow — severe
frost in winter, cold rain in summer. If the fall
is steady and considerable during an E. wind, the
wind will go round to the S., unless heavy snow or
rain follows. If the fall takes place during a S.E.
wind, rain invariably follows. The worst weather
comes with a falling barometer during a N. wind —
a rare phenomenon, however. In summer, it
brings rain and storm ; in winter and spring, deep
snow and severe frost. If the fall is during a frost,
a thaw will follow, which will continue if the wind
is S. or S.E.; but if S.W., the frost will be likely
to return with a N. wind and a rising barometer.
In summer, great depressions are succeeded by
storms; cold unseasonable weather generally fol-
lowing. After great depression, at all seasons,
follow changing winds and much rain. When the
mercury is unsteady during calm showery weather,
thunder will follow. Rain more or less attends all
storms. In England, continues Mr. Belville, the
Vi'inds which blow for the greatest number of days
together, without intermission, are the W. and S.W.
—they blow chiefly during the winter months, and
are the principal cause of our mild winters. The E.
and E.N.E. winds are the next most prevalent. The
great antagonist winds, the N. and the S., are the
originof our most violent storms. The westerly winds
surge mostly by night, and their average force is
twice that of the easterly winds. The easterly winds
are commonly calm at night, but blow with some
power during the day. There is generally least
wind at sunset and sunrise — the most wind an hour
or two after noon. As a general rule, when the
wind turns against the sun, or retrogrades from W.
to S., it is attended with a falling barometer; when
it goes in \}msane direction as the sun, or turns direct
frow W. to N., the mercury rises, and there is a
probability of fine weather. If the weather during
harvest time has been generally fine, and a fall of
the mercury with a shower occur — if the wind turn
a few points to the north, and the barometer rises
above 30 inches, the weather may be expected to
be fair for some days. One current of air in the
atmosphere is usually attended with a steady baro-

meter—when two or moie currents exist, great
fluctuations in the quicksilver occur. In high
pressures, the npjper current usually sets from the
N. ; in lov/ pressures, from the S. or S.W."

The mean height of the barom.eter at noon, at
Greenwich, in the 30 years from 1815 to 1844 —
60 feet above the level of the sea— is given by Mr,
Belville, for each month, as follows {^fanual, p.
16) — the diflference is much less, it will be noted by
the reader, than might reasonably be expected—

January , , 29.909

February , . , . , 29.859

March 29.857'

April 29.S65

May 29.884

June 29.910

July 29.894

August.. 29.890

September 29.872

October 29.851

November ,...,. 29.801

December 29,884

As to the supposed influence of the moon on the
weather — " Notwithstanding the ridicule which
sometimes attaches to the vulgar behef in it," ob-
serves Lord Lovelace {JoKr. B,. A. S., vol. ix., p.
335), "the celebrated Arago did not disdain to ex-
amine the question. At Carlsruhe, Orange, and
Paris, the registers concur in marking a slight
predominance of wet during the whole of the first
quarter. He found, from, a careful comparison of
various European tables, that the rain falls oftener
during the increase than the wane of the moon, by
6 to 5, This is more particularly the case from the
first quarter to the full moon. In regard to the
supposed connexion of the weather with the hours
of the day or night at which the moon becomes
new and full, it appears, from some observations
made during the first nine months of 1816, that in
19 times this hypothesis was right or iiearly so 13
times, once doubtful, and 5 times wrong." That
supposed influence of the moon upon the weather
is given in a well-known table, which the reader
will find at page 54 of the Fanners' Almanac, by
Johnson and Shaw, for 1854; it is there stated
that, if it shall be new or full moon between
certain hours given in the first column, then,
according to the season, the weather will be as
given in the second and third columns.

Of the signs of future weather derived from the
phenomena of the natural world, much has been
said, in all times and in all districts; and much of
those popular observations, so common to us all, is
founded more or less in truth, however doubtful
the value of that truth in a practical point of view
may be to the farmer Of the signs of rain for in^

H 2

THE FARMiLR'B MAGAZINE.

stance, m the phenomena of the vegetable world,
may be named the closing of the small white
flowers of the common chickweed or stitchwort
[Stelaria niedlu), and of the beautiful pink flowers
of the purple sandwort (Aretiaria rubra), of the
brilliant red flowers of the pimpernel [Anagallis
irrvensis)) of the germander speedwell (Veronica
Charaaedrijs) ; the reverse of these appearances
indicating fine weather.

In the animal world, the signs of rain are popu-
larly regarded as many. When horses, sheep, pigs,
and fallow'deer, are more than usually restless; or,
when rabbits come out to feed early in the
evening; when ducks, geese, or swans fly, it
portends, according to the same popular authority,
rain. When larks fly much, or when crows

fly high, and in regular order, tine weather will
follow; when the missal-thrush sings long and
loud, storms and rain are said to be prognosticated.
The influence of good cultivation — of improved
drainage —upon the chmate of a country, is known
to most farmers. That the drying of a district
banishes fogs, lessens the humidity of the atmo-
sphere, and increases the mean summer tempera-
ture, is evidenced by the more successful cultivation
of grain. We have, therefore, many reasons to
encourage us, in our efforts to promote the im-
proved cultivation of the land ; our crops are hence
increased, not only in bulk, but in quality also;
our harvests are rendered more certain; the health
of our domestic animals, and of our families, be-
come improved, and the general good promoted.

GRASS AND NITROGEN

In the fourteenth volume of the Roya! Agricultural
Journal, part 2nd, pp. 374-391, there is an article " On
the Natural Law by which Nitrate of Soda acts as a
Manure," &c. It is not my present object to trespass
upon the paragraphs of that excelleat treatise, or upon
its appendix, farther than to refer to both as highly in-
structive. After a careful perusal, it occurred to me
that a series of experiments, carefully conducted, might
serve to confirm Mr. Pusey's opinion of the superior
efiicacy of the nitrates over any other of the saline
chemical salts which have been used to promote the
growth of meadovv and pasture grasses.

The experiments thit I proposed to mj'self have been
carried through, and so successfully (though on a very
minute scale) that I now proceed to describe them in
the order and according to the dates registered in the
diary of observations : —

April 15. — Three grass turves, about six inches
square, were cut from some loose pieces that had been
thrown up in marliing out intended freehold allotments.
The herbage and earth adhering had become parched,
and thoroughly dry. After paring off some of the
lumpy mould, they were laid on the ground, just
loosened by a hand-fork, about a foot in front of a
laurel hedge, in a line pointing east and west, and fully
IG inches asunder ; they were thus screened by the
hedge from the south sun. The turves I number, 1 at
the east, 2 central, 3 at the west end ; they were pressed
level, and merely watered, for the weather continued
perfectly dry, with a powerful sun. Vegetation was
speedily excited, and then No. 1 received a solution of
nilra^e of soda, prepared ad Uhitum, by neutralizing
40 minims of pure nitric acid with carbonate of soda —
a strong dose— diluted with four fluid ounces of water ;
No. 2 had thirty grains of refined saltpetre {nitrum
pur'ifieatum) in a like quantity of water; and No. 3 had
thirty grains (29 minims) of nitric acid, equally diluted.
The reader will understand that, in the above and all
future applications, the quantities of fluid were measured

by the four-ounce graduated glass, and carefully poured
(by its lip) over the grass surfaces only. — The dry
weather of the late remarkable spring continued till the
•21st ; on which day the mean temperature was given at
11 deg. 6 cents, in excess of the usual average mean. Rain
fell on the 22nd, and more followed in the four last
days of April, with great reduction of heat.

May 1. — Repeated the watering, only reducing the
nitric acid to 13 falling drops in the four ounces of
water. The grasses had now become quite green and
thriving.

May 13. — The herbage of the squares yielded proof
of the efficacy of the two waterings ; but the grass of
No. 2 was in all respects inferior to that of Nos. 1 and 3 :
in them, it was rich in verdure, and of luxuriant growth.

May 14. — I had prepared a dry nitrate of soda, by
neutralizing diluted nitric acid with its equivalent of
crystallized carbonate of soda, and evaporating gradually
to dryness in a Berlin capsule, and then, for the last
time, they were moistened again in the same order,
but with a slight abatement of the three stimulants.
Thus No. 1 received only twenty grains of nitrate
of soda, No. 2 twenty grains nitrate o{ potash, and No.
3 only nine falling drops of nitric acid, all combined as
before, with four fluid ounces of very pure rain water.

May 22. — The experiments had been carried on
during more than five weeks. The grass of Nos. 2 and
3 was very strong, the seed-stems being six to eight
inches high ; but that of No. 2 was inferior in growth,
more weedy, and of an inferior verdure. I therefore re-
moved the daisy and weak dandelion plants from it, cut
over the young grass, and substituted a solution of
sulphate of aminoni i, twenty grains, in four ounces of
water. No speedy effects followed ; but now (July 10),
after the frequent supplies of rain, the grass has become
strong, but still inferior to that of Nos. 1 and 2, even at
the end of May !

Whatever may be thought of the value of experiments
made upon a scale so minute, certain it is that nitrate

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of soda produced (with me) definite and marked results ;
it is equally so, that very strong nitric acid, applied at
three times, to the extent of at least 42 drops in 12 fluid
ounces of water, over the surface of a small piece of old
turf, so far from doing injury, did, in reality, so stimu-
late the withered grass as to justify Mr. Pusey's deduc-
tions from his own more extensive operations. I may
add, by way of suggestion, that agriculturists who con-
template the forming of a pasture by the process termed
*' inoculation," will have full opportunities to try any
and every kind of saline manure, with little or no risk
or outlay, by only observing to mark each piece of
medicated turf, noting the quality and quantity of the
liquid manure so ap]ilied. Much valuable knowledge
might thus be obtained.

Dr. Anderson, of Glasgow, has written an excellent
article " On the Recent Progress of Agricultural
Science." It is just published in the Transactions of
the Highland Society (Quarterly Journal of Agriculture,
July), p. 306. I would i-ecommend the perusal of this
article, and particularly the paragraph under the head
"Artificial Manures," p. 324. At the 16th line from
the bottom of that page, we read, * ' But I apprehend
that, had Mr. Pusey put the question to any of those
persons who have recently directed their attention to
agricultural chemistry, he would have received for reply,
that the value of nitrate of soda is most unequivocally
due to its nitric acid, and not to its soda."

Croydon, JoHNTowERa.

A LOOK INTO FOUR COUNTIES.

Alighted at Reigate, in Surrey, from the London and
Dover railway, I journeyed eastwards along the valley
of the Greensand, which accompanies the north down-
range of chalk almost throughout the entire course.
There is not a more curious and interesting locality in
England in a varied geology than this district of country.
The north boundary is the range of chalk rising at
Botley Hill to the height of 880 feet above the sea level;
the top of the Downs is in many places covered with
the plastic clay, which also occupies the southern slope
in a most intractable and viscous soil ; the valley at the
foot of the hills is occupied by the London clay in a
considerable width ; the ridge of the third, or quartzy
sandstone is upheaved, which covers the oolite and sup-
ports the chalk — it occupies a parallel direction with the
chalk with but little variation, and the southern escarp-
ment overlooks the Wealden formation of clay, which
occupies the flat country between the North and South
Downs of chalk, over which the last deposit of lime had
formerly extended. A vast denudation had swept east-
wards the chalk deposit, and the Loudon and Wealden
clays had been subsequently interpolated — the last argil-
laceous bed being a mixed production of marine and
fresh-water agency. The sandy deposit is divided into
the green or upper bed, and the iron or lower bed — the
separation being done by the gault clay, which is known
at Godstone as black land, but lies mostly in narrow
valleys, and used in grass. The upper bed forms the
surface ground at Reigate ; the gault or intermediate
deposit appears at Godstone ; and the lower iron stone
is developed at Limpsfield, where several sections ex-
hibit the bands of iron very conspicuously. Along the
whole course eastwards, the valley between the chalk
range and the sandstone ridge is occupied by the London
clay, and on the south side the Wealden formation
occupies the ground. These deposits constitute very
intractable clay fallows for wheat, and the turnip soils
are derived from the decomposition of the quartzy sand-
stone.

The agriculture of this district is not less remarkable
than its geology The clays are universally tilled with

the strong and heavy turn-wrest plough of Kent, as no
other implement yet found is capable of overcoming the
resistance in ploughing the stubborn lands. And the
heaviest forms of that impleuQent are not at all beyond
the strength that is required in breaking up the leys and
stubbles of these clay deposits. The last summer working
of the fallow lands, and the earthing up of the ridges
for seed, are done by a swing plough with a wooden
mouldboard, to which the waxy soil does not adhere so
tenaciously as to cast-iron.

A modification of the turn-wrest plough has been
adapted to two horses abreast, and is used on the sandy
lands, which retain from the irony constitution a very
considerable degree of battered hardness in the under-
soil, and also in the upper ground after much rain has
fallen. Swing ploughs with two horses abreast are fully
equal to the cultivation of these soils, and better with a
share of cast-iron, which wears equally on both sides of
the pointj and pierces the quartzy subsoil better than the
wrought-iron share that wears chiefly on the under side
of the point, and throws the plough upwards. Tliis
fact is well established on these concreted substrata.

Between Reigate and Godstone, my attention was
arrested by the process of sowing turnips on a field of
fallow land, of fair quality and extent. The turn-
wrest-plough of two horses was employed in opening
and reversing the drills, in the hollows of whicli a
sprinkling of dried farm-yard dung was spread to a large
extent uncovered ; in which employment one pei-son was
engaged. The plough was most inefficient for drilling
land ; the round share pierces, like a mole, the ground
in front, but raises no earth laterally ; the wooden
mould-board, formed of one disjoined board, and placed
high, merely pushes aside the upper surface of the pul-
verized soil, no part of which is received from the sbare
as in the proper continuation of a furrow. The drills
thus formed are lumps of land pushed together, and the
intervening hollows are wide trenches, nearly of equal
width at top and bottom. One plough and one horse
performing the turnip season on a field of medium ex-
tent, appeared quite a novelty, and must be either a

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child's conception— makiag a beginning, or an expiring
relic of some abortive attempt. In the present damp
season a braird of turnips may be got by sucli means;
but in dry weathers, the long esposure of soil and dung
would forbid any expectation.

In the eastern progress near to Tundridge, the
p.ppearauce of extensive fields in cultivation betokened
an enlargement of mind. The wheat crops were very
superior, and better implements v/ere lying about. The
superiority did not however continue. A field of fallow
land was bearing a green crop of sprouted couch-grass,
lying on the surface ungathered after being harrowed ; and
a field of beet-root showed a very unseemly condition,
wlili weeds abundant, and the plants singled in threes
o.nd fours together. This description of soil is wholly
green crop land, and wheat fallow is ridiculous. Such
culture of lands on which auxiliary manures are most
proper, and now so very abundant, and of tried
cfHcacy does not argue any pre-eminence in imported
farming, and reflects no credit on the country which has
given it birth. The grubber stuck into the headland
shows an antiquated form ; and a wooden roll, in the
tlilckness of a man's waist, was provided with a frame
much more in weight than the roll itself. The view was
cursory, certainly; but from few objects an idea may
be formed of larger matters.

Near to the border of Kent there was seen, on rather
inferior soils, the system of vetch -farming in all its de-
formity. Sheep consuming the herbage, refuse to eat,
a:id leave standing, like young trees, the stems of docks
and thistles, as are everywhere seen. The annual weeds
rise thickly behind the consumption, and the land being
wrought for turnips, is imperfectly cultivated, and
affords but a late chance of a crop. If turnips are sown
with artificial manures on one ploughing, the surface
weeds are buried, and though checked by the hoeings of
the crop, the future reappearance is certain. No doubt
the vetch is a valuable plant on these iron sands of a
scorching quality ; but the farming is always foul, and
requires to be frequently joined with a clean fallow.
Two crops in a season do not admit of a good cultivation.

In the county now mentioned wheat is a superior
crop ; barley a full average ; oats a fair growtli on these
soils. Hay late and light, both on meadows and sown
grasses. The wet weather had not inflicted any serious
tliVcioage there.

Through Sevenoaks to Tuabridge, in Kent, the coun-
try is closely wooded in meadows, fallows, and hop
grounds ; the latter shov.ing a bare growth, and alino-.t
gone. Grain crops good ; wheat very superior. From
Tunbridgs to Hastings, near the sea, the soil is a very
poor, meagre clay, used in wheat fallows, oak copses,
pnd the best quality in hops— equally deficient this year
as in Surrey. These lauds are poor, and badly treated ;
portable manures are not proper, and draining is very
expensive. Lime and deep trenching would be the
remedy, and the empl tymeat of capital upon it, by the
residence of wealthy persons who hold the land at nomi-
nal rents, and at no rent at all for same time. It would
ultimately reimburse the proprietor to give the posses-
sioa in this way, as the poverty which will live on such

lands, and fight to scratch a pittance from the surface,
will never be able to effect any lasting benefit, or even a
temporary alteration. Capital and intelligence must be
induced to live upon it ; and if the present proprietors
cannot, or will not, make such arrangement, let others
have the land who will do it.

The coast line from Hastings to Portsmouth showed
good crops, and wheat in an especial superiority ; tur-
nips few, and miserably cultivated. Potatoes, none
from Reigate as a field crop ; the garden crops excel-
lent. The prejudice is yet unabated against potatoes as
a cultivated crop — a pitiful barbarism of the mind 1

The alluvial fiat country by Arundel, Chichester, and
Ilavant is rich by nature, and grows heavy crops with
small assistance from art. The declivity of the chalk
hills in the back -ground affords an agreeable and very
useful variety in turnip lands, and rearing and fattening
sheep ; a system of farming is thereby obtained which
makes a very profitable use of capital. A mixture of
soils and productions constitutes much the best chance
of remuneration.

The crossing from Portsmouth into South Hants finds
a large extent of alluvial soils in an undulating country,
possessing immense advantages, and a most encourag-
ing prospect of cultivation. From Portsmouth to Fare-
ham the soil rises from alluvial depth into a thin
stratum. Between Fareham and Southampton the
vegetable stratum is very shallow, and a very large
heathy common extends ; the adjacent grounds are of
excellent quality for turnips and barley. At Burseldon
Pontage and vicinity the quality is excellent for all
green crops, which bring grain crops in their rear. The
turnip crops are few, and most miserably managed. The
land, ridged or fiat, is sown by some light seed-barrow,
which never goes straight ; and the rows of turnips are
ranged in the most ludicrous manner — waved, cornered,
wide, and narrow. Some are sown broadcast, but none
are drilled over the dung : such mode seems wholly un-
known. The grain crops in this district were excellent,
both in wheat and barley ; hay indifferent, both natural
and artificial.

From Southampton by Bishopsloke the same or better
green crop lands are found, but they are used in the same
awkward and unprofitable manner. Around the latter
place there are large fields of superior deep and dry
loamy soils, which want only the exercise of moderate
skill to render a triple value. The sowings of turnips
are most contemptible. Pigs were the first ploughmen,
and had no idea of a straight line with their noses grub-
bing the earth in search of roots and insects — so the South
Hants farmers appear to have no idea of a straight line in
drilling turnips, they have not yet raised their minds so
high. Experience grantr, that turnips do best on tiso
flat ground in the dry arid climate of South Britain, on
the lands of the clayey, crumbling, cloddy nature, which
are converted into small irreducible clods by the action of
the harrow and the roller. But the case is v^hoUy
altered on the close loamy soils that have been men-
tioned ; the drilling is most beneficiil by one deep fur-
row of the common swing plough, and sown by Hornsby 's
drop drill with artificial manures and seeds mixed, and

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

deposited by long coulters which split the drill to the
bottom, and place the manure and seed among the fresh
tilth. In this way, and after being rolled, the ground is
almost flat, and secured against drought ; but the drills
must be straight.

Throughout this fine country the wheat crop, if safely
harvested, will be beyond an average ; barley above an
average, and oats an average crop. Turnips cannot be
judged so early, as few were sown. Clover hay much
damaged, and some laid upon the dungheap to rot.

A good country continues by Twyford almost to Win-
chester, where the Down lands prevail. Good turnip
lands are seen in preparation for wheat, notwithstanding
the general use of artificial manures and their known
efficacy. On the chalky turnip lands the turnip farming
is ralher better than in South Hants ; the drilling is

better done, and the care is more evident. The large
crops of wheat everywhere give evidence of a good soilj,
and that the means are not applied in other respects.
Much fine land is found over the joining of the chalk
and the lower grounds, which produces in abundance
the varied crops of cultivation. The soil of the Downs
is not so kindly for turnips as fresh-water alluviums of
South Hants, yet the management is better. The Down
lands continue by Basingstoke into the London basin,
where a fresh system prevails. The wheat crops are
universally good, but the hay somewhat damaged. The
chief feature of remark is the bad management of turnips,
the best of which is scarcely tolerable. Drilling by the
plough is altogether unknown, and on the flat ground
the performance is most incomplete.

July Ulh, 1854. J. t).

ON THE USELESSNESS OF REARING- EE I NS .

BY VISCOUNT DOWNE.

It is said that when hh Majesty George III., with a view to
Bome iaiprovemeat in military UDiform, asked a life-guardsman,
who had done good service in tUe battle of Waterloo, what sort
of dress he shoiild prefer had he another similar battle to go
through, he received for auawer, "Please your Majesty, I
ehould prefer my shirt-sleeves." Now, though we should be
much surprised to see our cavalry regiments turn out for
parade in shirt sleeve order, there can be no doubt the life-
guardsman's principle is a sound one. If a man M'auts to do a
hard day's work— if he wants to exert his muscles and sinews,
either iu walking, running, fighting, digging, felling trees, or
carryinc: weights — he must have those muscles free aad un-
coufiued by straps and ligatures and tiijht clothing : no one
can gaiuaay this. But how is it, then, that a principle which
every one, whether soldier or sailor, farmer or labourer, would
insist upon in his own case, should be,iu Eoglaud at least, so
uuiversally disregarded in the case of our hardworking, patient,
and too often ill-used beasts of burthen ? How is it that the
iguoraace of " common thiags," which Lord Aahburton so
justly complaius of, should be so lameutably conspicuous in a
matter so constantly before our eyes in our towns, in our fields,
iu our crowded streets, iu our rural lanes; namely, our draught-
horse appointments? It must be owned that one class — all
hoDOdr, therefore, be to it — that of cab and omnibus pro-
prietors, have set a good example in one respect, viz., in doing
a'lay with that hateful instrument of torture the bearing-rein.
Bat, alas! in 99 carts and waggons out of 100 (carta acd
waggons, which are to move at a slow and steady pace) vfe still
persist in crippling unnecessarily our motive power, and
gagging our unhappy horses by tying np their heads, as if in
the very tyranny of wantonness. On the continent the
bearing rein is rsrely used, and then only as a servile English
imitation ; but in horse-raciug, hunting, horse-loving England,
it must be confessed its use is all but universal. In Yorkshire,
in the midland counties, in the southern, up the steep hills
near Sc rborough, as up the not leas steep downs near Brighton,
we may see heavy-laden wao;gons at all hours of the day
dragE;ed miserably along by horses — on one baud urged for-
ward by everrcjtless whipcord ; on the other, as if iu the veriest
spirit (jf contradiction, curbed in by senseless hearing-reins ;
and yet, if the attendant carter's attention be drawn to the

unnatural cruelty of the proceeding, he generally appears fully
alive to it.

On seeing, the other cay, a poor horse tug-ging a cart fulj
of sand up the clitf at Brighton, of course with his head tied
tightly to his back, we observed to a labourer near. What a
shame not to undo the bearing-rein with such a load 1 " Oh
yes, sir," was the reply; "I likes myself to see 'em free, but
it's custom, sir, custoin ; they thinks they looks well." Howeven
it is to be feared the truth is, thought has little e.iou-h to do
with it ; if p^opls did think, the days of bearing-reins would
soon be numbered. The folly of the practice was, soaie years
ago, very ably shown by Sir Francis Head, in his " Bubbles,
by an Old Man," where he contrasted most unfavourably our
English custom of tying tightly up, with the Germau one of
tyin? Icoseiy down, and both with the French one of having
the horse's head at liberty — (and a man of his shrewdness and
observation, a distinguished soldier, who has galloped across
the South American pampa?, and seen there herds of untamed
horses in all their native wildness and natural freedom, is hO
mean authority). Now, he has pointed out moat clearly th^t
when a horse has real work to do, whether slow work, as in our
ploughs and carts, or quick, as in a fast gallop, or iu headlong
flight across the plains of America, nature tells him not to
throw his head up and backwards towards his tad, but for-
wards and downwards, so as to throw his weight into what he
is called upon to do. This is a fact within every one's obser-
vation : we have only to persuade the first wag;;oner we see
(he is sure to have all his horses tightly homo up) to undo his
bearing-reins, when down will go every horse's head, so as to
relieve the wearisome strain upon his muscles, and give the
weight of his body its due and natural power of overcoming
resistance ; and thus each horse becomes enabled to do his work
as comfortably and easily as nature iuteuded he should do : for
nature never intended a heavy animal like a cart-horse to per-
form slow work only, or chiefly, by strain of muscle, but, on
the contrary, by the power of weight as the rule, assisted by
strength of muscle as the exception, when extra resistance
has to be overcome. Thus, when we curb up a horse's head
with our senseless bearing-reins, and make him as ewe-necked
as we appear anxious to do, we are inverting the rule and
order of nature ; we are evidently trjiug to prevent his using

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the full unrestrained power of his weight, and are compelling
him to overstrain and over-exert constantly those very mus-
cles which should be kept in reserve for extra difficulties — such
as greater inequalities in the road, new-laid stones, &c. Now,
any one can see that, to an old, worn-out, half-starved, over-
worked animal, as too many, ay, by far the greater proportion,
are, this must be intolerable cruelty. It is a mistake to think
a bearing-rein can be of any service whatsoever, unless, as a
very exceptional case, to a very young, headstrong, unbroken
horse. It is a mistake to think it improves a horse's appear-
ance— nothing contrary to nature can ever really do this ; it is
a mistake to think it can ever prevent a horse's falling down,
though it has been the means of preventing many an old one
recovering from a stumble ; but until our horse-ownera be
taught to look at this matter in its true light, the light of
common sense, and until it be taken up by the influential
landowners and more enlightened and more considerate of the
tenant-farmers amongst us, it is in vain to hope for any
mitigation of this but too-universal cruelty. Hundreds of
humane men, employers of horse-labour, there are in all our
counties and our towns, who, if their attention were but called
to the senselessness and cruelty of the practice, would at once
see the necessity of the only prompt remedy ; and in these go-
a-head days Prejudice and Custom have but tottering foun-
dations : the one is fast yieding to common sense and Lord
Ashburton's much- to-be-desired " knowledge of common
things ;" and the other will not long stand its ground unless
it has something more than the prestige of mere antiquity in
its favour. We ourselves have entirely done away with
bearing-reins among our own heavy draught-horses; and
though our carters were at first rather astonished at being de-
sired to discard them entirely and substitute a loose halter or
rein at one side instead, they soou found that their horses were
not a whit less manageable without bearing-reins, and that they

did their work with far greater ease to themaelves. A great
friend of ours, who has turned the sword of a dragoon into a
ploughshare, and has paid great and successful attention to
farming afl^airs, gives it as his opinion that " a pair of horses,
when freed from this useless tackle and left to step in freedom,
would plough l-4th if not l-3rd more land in a day, and with
greater ease to themselves and less fatigue when the day's
work was over, than when confined in their action by bearing-
reins."

It does appear not a little desirable that improvements
should be made generally in our team-harness, so that all un-
necessary weight and useless gear, beariog-reins, &c., should be
got rid of; and perhaps if the Royal Agricultural Society were
to offer a prize for improved harness, and give the sanction of
its authority to some improved type, we might hope to see ere
long a great and beneficial change in this respect. Change is
by no means desirable for its own sake, but the change from a
bad system to a good one — from a bad to a good implement —
cannot be otherwise than advantageous to the community ;
and it is only by observing and obeying nature's laws that we
can hit upon improvements which may be real and lasting,
whether in mechanical appliances for ploughs, carts, and har-
ness, or with respect to the practical details of scientific culti-
vation, or the condition and household comforts of our agri-
cultural labourers. Agriculture fosters and embraces in its
maternal grasp the knowledge of high and noble sciences as
well as that of '• common things ;" and it is not unreasonable
to hope that that powerful Society, which pre-eminently
represents the influence, the talent, the enterprise, and the
humanity of our English agriculturists, will, among the
thousand-and-one other improvements which it has introduced
and is introducing, not deem it beneath its notice to throw the
energy of its influence against the unnatural system of bearing-
reins. — Journal of the Royal Agricultural Society.

SKILLED LABOUR.

Notwithstanding what may have been so often
urged to the contrary, we are sanguine enough to
beheve that the pursuits of agriculture inculcate
anything but a spirit of selfishness or mere fortune
hunting. Rarely, indeed, do those most directly
interested in the occupation render it a profitable
one without imparting some proportionate benefit
to others grouped around them. The farmer, in a
word, cannot continue to prosper single-handed.
It becomes an essential part of his business to have
those in any way associated with him ever ready
and anxious to sympathize in his success. From
the landlord he holds under, to the labourer he
employs, the feehng should still be the same.
Independently of what the community may gain
from his well>doing, there are two or three classes
whose rise and fall must be always regulated more
or less by his own.

We are coming day by day more generally to
acknowledge this. At the meeting now about to
be held at Lincoln, we shall find in that county
itself one of the strongest examples of that asso-

ciated interest, which has resulted in so much
common good. Landlord and tenant have here
long since learnt how much they may do by
cementing such an union, as how greatly the
prosperity of the one class depends upon that of
the other. Let us leave this desirable end, at
least for the present, to point its own moral,
and go in turn to the public show-yard for
another illustration of how thoroughly the tenant
farmer should have some others again to feel with
him. As we trace the different avenues of ma-
chinery offered for his use — as we inspect, one after
another, the many classes of improved and valuable
stock it must be his endeavour to obtain, let us
stay to consider who should have an interest, as
who is it that has a direct influence, here ? At
whose mercy does the agriculturist place the com-
paratively high-priced implement he has determined
upon using ? Into whose hands does he deliver
the perfectly formed animal that is to do so much,
not merely perhaps for his own breed, but for that
of a district ? Who beyond landlord or tenant

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

is it that has so strong a claim in the ad-
vance of agriculture, and who should himself
so certainly advance pari passu with it ?

Need we stay to answer, " the labouring man" ?
he whose health will be duly given at that festival
which celebrates the object and the attainments of
an agricultural society, and which very becomingly
includes him in the ranks of those that it would
honour. It has, too, already done far more for
him than this offer, of what some may still wish to
consider but an empty compliment may appear to
imply. This associated interest we have already
referred to brought him at once within the influ-
ence of that progress it has been the proud distinc-
tion of the Royal Agricultural Society to direct.
From this he has learnt, or is still learning, how
much it will be to his own advantage to do his
best. From this he begins to see that the well-doing
of his employer is equally his own ; and with this
to guide him, he is becoming gradually freed
from all the heavy impedimenta of ignorance and
prejudice. The man who once considered it his
first duty to himself and his family to smash a
thrashing machine, or forbid the working of a hay-
maker, has come now to acknowledge how much
the use of these very implements may facihtate bis
own labour, and tend to his own advantage.

So far so good ; but we must not stop even
here. One of our great objects now is to force
simplicity of detail and action upon the mind of the
inventor and his machinist. Our judges are
taught to consider this one of the first recom-
mendations towards determining their award. Let
them stay to reflect into whose hands that which
they are approving must pass for use, and then let
them ask themselves whether it be really reduced
to the capacity of the class for which it is intended.
The argument here is essentially practical and
politic ; but after all, it is only one-sided. The
manufacturer is ordered to lower the character of
his goods to the standard of intelligence by which
they will be brought into service. May we not,
on the other hand, do a little more in another direc-
tion ? Far be it from us to question the attraction
and advantage to be found in judicious simplicity
of construction. It has long been one of our own
arguments. At the same time is it not our duty to
make the workman equal to the material he has to
deal with ? The one grand difficulty is already sur-
mounted. The unfavourable bias we had so long to
contend against is gone ; and the man, we believe,
is willing to learn, if we are only ready to teach.
Improvement and advancement now only await our
own signal — " Forward !"

We are anxious to assume there is an increasing
desire to thus lead onwards the labouring man. " A
little reflection," as was well said by Lord Strad-
broke the other day at Saxmundham — "a little
reflection would show it was impossible, in a coun-
try which was increasing in wealth, and where the
upper and middle classes were every day increasing
in knowledge and intelligence, to say you will resist
education for the lower classes of the people. But
if it were impossible to say this, he was anxious to
add that if it were possible it would be unwise. He
should like to ask them all this question : supposing
that, by the activity and zeal of talented men who
are constantly at work in improving the machinery
of the country, more machinery is introduced, how
could that machinery be used to advantage unless
the labourers were men of inteUigence and of sound
education? He should wish also to ask — and
there were present many gentlemen who could
answer — which amongst their labourers were those
whom they most valued ? which amongst them were
those in whom they most trusted ? which among
them were those in whom they placed the greater
confidence, and to whom they could leave their farms
with more satisfaction than they could to others ?
Was it not the fact that the labourers on whom
they most relied, and in whom they had the great-
est confidence, were those who were men of the
greatest intelligence and of the most education ?
He certainly had anticipated no other than an
answer in the affirmative. The education which he
alluded to was that which fitted a man for the per-
formance of all his duties — which taught the boy
those obligations which he would have to perform
when he grew up to manhood. Such was the com-
prehensive system which he advocated ; entertain-
ing, as he did, the opinion upon all occasions, that
the best men were those who had had a reasonable
and sound education; satisfied, too, as he was, that
such men were the most trustworthy and the most
inteUigent."

There are few who read this but will echo the
cheers with which it was received. There are few,
we trust, but who will make it part of their business,
as one of their chief boasts, to have their labourers
men of intelligence and education " that fits them
for their duties." The cheers with which, again,
we expect to hear such sentiments as these received
on Wednesday must stand for the answer they
should properly convey. Let it be our ambition
to stand to them, and prove that " the health of
the labourer" is no such mockery as some of our
censors would have it interpreted.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

AGRICULTURAL BIOGRAPHY.

hiriKGr AUTHORS, OR SUPPOSED TO B2 LIVING.

(Conchidedfrom page 407-^

CCCCLXV.— TORRTNGTON, 1842.

Viscount Torrington has written " On farm build-
ings, witli a few observations on the state of agri-
culture in the county of Kent ;" price 5s. The
observations on practical farming that are made in
this treatise are judicious and correct, but on the
subject of farm buildings his Lordship is behind
the age, as he applies the power of horses to impel
the thrashing machineiy, and long after steam has
been used much more advantageously for the pur-
pose. Animal labour is a large advance beyond
human drudgery ; and a much larger progression
is made when an active agent is raised from inani-
mate bodies, and made to perform the functions of
animated life. The feeding-house, devised in the
plan of farm buildings, contains too many animals,
and consequently a very heated air v/iU be respired.
Nothing worth imitation has been exhibited by the
design or description of the wants of farmeries.

CCCCLXVL— Green, 1842.

Robert Green, farmer, has written " On under-
draining wet and cold lands;" price 3s. 6d. This
book has been very little noticed, though written
on a most important subject, as the title compre-
hends all the lands that require to be drained. If
the author has adopted the shallow system, or the
deeper percolations, the process is much the same,
only varied in the frequency and depth of drains,
in order to answer the contemplated object.

CCCCLXVIL— Donaldson, 1842.

John Donaldson has written "A treatise on ma-
nures and grasses;'"' London, 8vo., 1842, "The
cultivated plants of the farm ; containing the
description, culture, and use of the grains, legumes,
tubers, and esculents;" London, 12mo., 1847.
" The enemies to agriculture, botanical and zoolo-
gical, description and extirpation;" London, 12mo.,
1348. " Land steward and farm bailiff ; detaihng
from actual practice the duties and qualifications of
both offices ;" London, 8vo., 1848. " Improved
farm buildings ; containing 72 designs of farmeries,
dwelling houses, and cottages ;" London, 1851,
4to. " Clay lands and loamy soils ; containing the
geological character, the chemical nature, natural
properties, and cultivated use of the different for-
mations;" London, 1852, 12mo, "Soils and ma^

nures ; containing the soils, cultivation, and ferti-
lizing;" London, 1852, 12mo.

The book of farm buildings contains 72 original
designs on copper, of farmeries, square, circular*
and polj'gonal, dwelling-houses and cottages, and
is the most comprehensive work of the kind. The
treatise on clay lands and loamy soils gives the most
extensive description of clays that has yet been
made, both in a scientific and practical view. The
various qualities are largely investigated. Also
" The country gentleman ; containing the arrange*
ments of the park, the policy, and the farm ;" 12mo.
" On landed property ;" large 8vo.

CCCCLXVIIL— Grey, 1842,

Robert Hyde Grey has written " Scotch farming
in the Lothians ; a letter addressed to the editor of
the Manchester Guardian ;" London, Svo., 1842.
" Scotch farming in England ; a second letter to
the Manchester Guardian;" London, Bvo., 1842.
These letters reiterate the tales that have been often
told — that superior cultivation prevails under
favourable circumstances, under good soils, long
leases, and capital in the hands of the farmers. The
climate is also very favourable to green crops. Much
of the Scotch farming may be used in England, in
the north and western parts, where the intiuences
resemble.

CCCCLXIX.— Lance, 1842.

Edward Jarman Lance, has written " On the food
of plants, in which is considered — the sources from
which plants derive the elements of their compo-
sition ; the mode in which farm-yard dung
strengthens the growth of agricultural crops ; the
mode in which other m.anures, whether singly or
combined, act upon vegetation." To which is added,
one essay on the drill-husbandry of turnips; London,
1842, 12mo. "The golden farmer; being an attempt
to unite the facts pointed outby nature in the sciences
of geology, chemistry, and botany, with practical
operations of husbandmen, to enable them to grow
more corn, and increase the employment of the
labourer;" London, 8vo., 1831. " The hop farmer,"
" The cottage farmer," and many parts of Baxter's
agricultural library, Mr. Lance originated " The
humus and carbon manures," and is a writer of the
highest class. "The hop farmer" is allowed to be
the best work on the subject.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

CCCCLXX.— Johnston, 1842.

James F. W. Johnston, Professor of agriculture
in the provincial college of Durham, has written
" Elements of agricultural chemistry and geology ;"
Edin., 8vo., 1842. "Catechism of agricultural
chemistry and geology; Edin., l6mo., 1844. "Lec-
tures on agricultural chemistry and geology, with
an appendix;" Edin. and London, Svo., 1844.
"Contributions to scientific agriculture;" London,
8vo., 1849. "Experimental agriculture; being
the results of past and suggestions for future expe-
riments in scientific and practical agriculture;"
Edin., 1849, Svo. "Notes on North America,
agricultural, economical, and social ;" 2 vols, Edin.
and London, Svo,, 1351.

The author was engaged by the Agricultural
Society of Scotland to give stated lectures on agri-
cultural chemistry for several successive years. The
success was as large as may be expected from the
subject, and the connection of the two sciences has
been illustrated probably as far as modern know-
ledge will allow. That it has fallen short of any
valuable practical application does not argue that
none will be reached, when a more intim.ate field
has been opened, and a closer inquiry afforded.

CCCCLXXL— Ransome, 1843,

James Allen Ransome, of the firm of Ransome
and Co., iron-foundry, Ipswich, has written " The
implements of agriculture;" London, Svo., 1843.
This work is worthy of the long-estabhshed
celebrity enjoyed by the above firm as makers of
agricultural implements; it has no equal in the
agricultural world, and outstrips all works of the
kind in the arrangement of the implements, delinea-
tion, descriptions, and practical character. The
author's remarks are very valuable. It may be re-
marked as curious that carts and waggons are not
mentioned as agricultural implements; the book
does not comprehend them.

CCCCLXXII.— Hunter, 1843.

James Hunter, plough-maker, Edinburgh, has
written "The improved Scotch swing-plough, with
practical illustrations on plough-making and plough-
ing, and many other observations in connection with
agriculture ;" Edin., 8vo,, 1843. The swing-plough
is very well explained in all its parts, and correctly
delineated in the skeletons. The beam appears to
be very short, and the bend very near to the heel
of the [)lough, at the back end of the sole plate.
A lever power is no doubt gained by a long handle
and a short beam ; but it may be over done, and the
just proportion destroyed,

CCCCLXXm.-HuTCHlNBON, 1844.

Henry Hutchinson, land-agent, valuer, and pro-

fessor of draining, Walcot, near Stamford, has
written " A treatise on the practical drainage of
land;" London, 1844, 8vo. The work contains
207 pages, with diagrams of drained lands on the
shallow and deep systems, as practised by the
author. The contents show a very sound profes-
sional knowledge, with a correct judgment on the
practical subject. No superior work has appeared
on the draining of lands on the improved system
of frequent cavities, in order to render eflfectual the
performance of drying the ground.

CCCCLXXIV.— RiGG, 1844.

Robert Rigg, F.R.S., has written " Experimental
researches, chemical and agricultural, showing car-
bon to be a compound body made by plants, and
decomposed by putrefaction ;" London, 1844, Svo.
The author fills 204 pages with very learned disser-
tations, but arrives at no practical result, even if
carbon be composed and destroyed as is repre-
sented.

CCCCLXXV.-Hannam, 1844.

John Hannam has published " The economy of
waste manures; a treatise on the nature and use of
neglected fertihzers ;" London, 1844, 12mo, The
treatise is valuable, and the author is known as the
writer of several prize essays,

CCCCLXXVL— Burke, 1844,

J. F.Burke has written " Farming for ladies; or, a
guide tothepoultry yard, the dairy, and the piggery;"
12mo., London, 1844. "The muck manual,"
" British husbandry ;" 2 vols., which were published
in monthly numbers by the Society for the Diffu-
sion of Useful Knowledge. It is a very useful work,
showing and recommending the most approved
practices upon incontestible grounds of preference.
The two small works above-mentioned are very
concise channels of agreeable intelligence. The
author is noted in the profession of agriculture.

CCCCLXXVII.— MiLBURN, 1845.

M. M. Milburn, land-agent, near Thirsk, York-
shire, has written "Prize essay on guaao;', Svo.,
London and York, 1845. "The cow, with the
dairy and breeding cattle;" 12mo., London, 1851.
" Sheep, breeds and management ;" 12mo, London,
1852. These works are to be noted for sound
sense, and very judicious statements. The practi-
cal information is of the highest order, and free of
any affectation beyond the necessary scientific
reference. Practice is never cast behind in order
to follow a new path that is not yet open, and but
barely accessible.

CCCCLXXVIIL— Williams, 1845.

E. Leader Wilhams, C.E., acting engineer to ths

100

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

Severn Companj', has written " On land-draining
and irrigation; and on the application of drainage
water as a motive power to machinery for agricul-
tural purposes;" price Is. 6d. This small work is
very true on the subject.

CCCCLXXIX.— WiLLOUGHBY D'Eresby, 1845.

Lord Willoughby D'Eresby has written " On
l^loughing by steam;" price 2s. 6d. Perseverance
continues the attempts to reach the point of plough-
ing by steam ; but like plough-draining and
machine-reaping of grain, ploughing in the dif-
ferent forms may require a more manageable agent
than condensed steam let loose from control,

CCCCLXXX.— Trimmer, 1845.

Joshua Trimmer, F.G.S., has written " Practical
geology and mineralogy ;" London, Svo. " Prac-
tical chemistry for farmers and land-owners ;"
London, ]2mo. " On the improvement of land as
an investment for capital;" London, 184/, Svo.,
price Is. And, along with Mr. Morton, "An
attempt to estimate the effects of protecting duties
on the profits of agriculture;" price 2s., and sup-
plement Is. The author is known as an able prac-
tical geologist, and a person of very sound views
on other subjects. Though no doubt can exist of
the improvement of land as an investment of capi-
tal, yet there must be a combination of favourable
circumstances which have passed away from exist-
ence, under which were effected the large improve-
ments quoted by the author.

[CCCCLXXXL— Martin, 1845.

W. C. L. Martin has written " Our domestic
fowls," "The history of the horse," and "Treatise
on the ox." These treatises are very valuable;
probably the natural history learning of the author
predominates over the practical utility.

CCCCLXXXn.— Roberts, 1845.

Owen Owen Roberts has written " Observations
on thorough drainage, as the basis of agricultural
prosperity;" London, 1845, 12mo. The author
reasons well, and argues stoutly in favour of close
draining and subsoil ploughing. The two pam-
phlets by the author, on the corn laws and agricul-
tural economy, are not practical notices.

CCCCLXXXIIL-Mechi, 1845.
J. Mechi has compiled a thin quarto volume of
letters on agricultural subjects, chiefly relating to
drainage of clay lands. The author is an amateur
cultivator of the soil, and has attracted much ob-
servation. His ideas show too much adhesion to
one locality ; and though they are not sheer idle
fancies, the general application may b.^ doubted.
Such persons are useful in any art,

CCCCLXXXIV.— Dickson, 1846.

James Hill Dickson has written " A series of
letters on the improved mode of the cultivation and
management of flax;" London, 1846, Svo. The
intelligence is very sound, and correctly estimated.

CCCCLXXXV.— Roberts, 1846.

G. Roberts has written " A catechism of agri-
culture, by question and answer, on the most
approved modes of cultivating the earth." The
work is one of Pinnock's catechisms, and bound in
a volume of these collections. It should have had
an earlier date, but the work did not catch our
notice sooner. The extent of it is too small to con-
tain the circle of agriculture, even in a contracted
form.

CCCCLXXXVL— Falkner, 1846.

F. Falkner, Esq., has written " The muck manual,
for the use of fai'mers ; a practical treatise on the
chemical properties, management, and apphcation
of manures;" London, 1846, pp. 318, sewed, 5s.
This is a very neat and comprehensive work, and a
most creditable performance.

CCCCLXXXVIL- Bacon, 1846.

R. N. Bacon has written " Prize essay on the
agriculture of Norfolk ;" 8vo., price 10s. 6d. This
work is much esteemed, and contains the senti-
ments of a sound practical judge, and of an en-
lightened writer.

CCCCLXXXVIIL— PASsy, 1846.

H. Passy has written " Essay on large and small
farms;" 12mo. This essay has never got into any
notice.

CCCCLXXXIX.— Eyton, 1846.

T. C. Eyton, Esq., has written " The handbook
of Hereford cattle;" in two vols., Svo. The work
contains the list, pedigrees, and portraits of the
most celebrated bulls of that breed, and the prices
at which many of them were sold. It is a very enter-
taining book to those connected with Hereford
cattle.

CCCCXC.— ToPHAM, 1846.

John Topham, MA., rector of St. Andrew,
Droitwich, has written " Chemistry made easy, for
the use of agriculturists;" London, stitched, ]6mo.
The knowledge of chemistry is undoubted; the
application of it in the field of agricultural practice
yet remains to be found.

CCCCXCL— Antisell, 1846.

Thomas Antisell has written " A manual of agri-
cultural chemistry;" 12mo., sewed, price 2s.
" Irish geology ;" IBmo., price 6d., sewed; in a
series of chapters containing an outline of the

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

101

science of geology, and a description of the various
rocks distributed on the surface of the island, with
some remarks on the climate. These little works
are worth notice.

CCCCXCII.-JoNEs, 1847.

David F. Jones has written "Turnip husbandry;
a series of papers on the culture and application of
that important root, with a preface by Professor
Johnston of Durham. The author describes most
correctly the most approved cultivation and use of
the turnip plant.

CCCCXCIII.— Dickson, 1847.
Walter B. Dickson has written " Poultry, their
breeding, rearing, diseases, and general manage-
ment." This is an excellent treatise on poultry,
and deserves much notice.

CCCCXCIV.— HUXTABLE, 1847.

Rev. A. Huxtable, A.M., rector of Sutton Wal-
dron, Dorset, is author of " A lecture on the science
and application of manures ;" 8vo., price Is. "The
present prices;" price Is. This writer has made his
name known by scientific views on various points
of agriculture. They may not prove to be fancies
and chimeras when a sufficient time for trial has
elapsed, and public opinion has overcome the
asthma which prevents to climb a steep ascent.

CCCCXCV.— O'Connor, 1847.'
Feargus O'Connor has written " On the manage-
ment of small farms;" 12mo. Except in the
London catalogue of books, no notice has been seen
of this work.

CCCCXCVI.— Warnes, 1847.

Warnes has written " On the cultivation of

flax, and the fattening of cattle with native produce,
box-feeding, and on summer grazing;" price 7s.
6d. The very plausible scheme of this author may
not be adapted to British husbandry, however valu-
able the flax plant may be. The cultivation of it is
a cottier performance, and adapted to an unrefined
stage of agricultural advancement, and will not be
able to find a place in the rotation of crops which
are cultivated with less trouble, and more suitable
for alternation. The feeding of one animal in a
box cannot enjoy any long advantage over a yard
and shed for two animals, which has been long very
successfully adopted. Minute trifles confer little
value.

CCCCXCVII.— Davies, 1848. ■

Hewett Davis, farmer, near Croydon, has written
" Farming essays ;" price 2s. 6d. Contents are —
On selecting a farm ; leases and tenants' rights ;
artificial manures ; thick and thin sowing ; Spring

Park farmmg (his own) ; agriculture, ancient and
modern; deep drainage on arable lands; general
directions for drainage ; kohl rabi and French
sheep ; &c., &c. These essays are very particular
for sound practice and enlightened judgment.

CCCCXCVIII.— Shilling, 1848.

Thomas Skilling, now professor of agriculture
in the Queen's College, Galway, has written " The
science and practice of agriculture;" 12mo., cloth,
with cuts, price 3s. 6d. Also " The farmer's ready-
reckoner." Very useful tracts in a small compass.

CCCCXCIX.— Wilson, 1848.

Rev. J. M. Wilson has written or edited " Rural
cyclopsedia ;" 2 vols., imperial 8vo. A large work
of four octavo volumes of extra size, alphabetically
arranged, and includes gardening, natural
sciences, and many country affairs. The j^lates of
animals, grasses, and implements are many, and the
execution is very superior. The work claims much
notice, though seldom named.

D.— Forsyth, 1848.

Alex. Forsyth has written " Treatise on culture,
and the economy of the potato;" 8vo. The author
is a gardener, and treats the preservation of the
potato, propagation, and cultivation, and adds a
postscript on the field culture. The subjects aie
most judiciously handled.

DI. — Newman, 1848.

Newman has written "Practical hints on land
draining;" 8vo. This notice has not extended
beyond the advertisement.

DII.— Parkes, 1848.

E. A. Parkes has written " On the art of land
drainage;" 8vo. The most philosophical essay
on drainage that has appeared, and probably too
refined for the gross operation of manufacturing the
ground.

DHL— FiLGATE, 1848.

Fitzherbert Filgate, Esq., has written " A prac-
tical treatise on thorough draining, accompanied
by remarks on the various materials employed, their
probable expenses, the comparative utihty of the
old and new methods, and its applicability to Ire-
land;" 18mo., sewed, price Is. The author writes
very soundly and practically.

DIV. — SlMONDS, 1848.

James Simonds is a professor in the Veterinary
College, Camden Town, London. He has written
on the small pox in sheep, the history of its intro-
duction into England, progress, symptoms, and
treatment of the disease, and how to avoid its fatal

102

THE FARMER^S MAGAZINE.

consequences. Mr. Simonds is known as an
enlightened practitioner of the veterinary science.

DV.—MURPHY, 1849.
Edmund Murphy, landscape gardener, has
Written " A treatise on agricultural grasses, with
figures of the principal plants;" 12mo,, sewed,
price Is. This treatise claims a merit.

DVL— Stephens, 1850.

Henry John Stephens, Edinburgh, has written
** The book of the farm ;" containing the practice
of agriculture placed as the details occur during
the months of the year. "A manual of practical
draining ;" containing the most approved practice
on various soils. There are no better works than
these two books on draining and practical agricul-
ture.

DVII.—Raynbird, 1849.

William and Hugh Raynbird have written " Agri-
culture of Suffolk;" Bvo., London, 1849. This
work gained the prize ofFered by the R. E. Agricul-
tural Society, and very deservedly. The contents
evince a thorough practical knowledge, disencum-
bered of scientific inutility. The writers have edited
an enlarged edition of Rham's *' Dictionary of the
farm."

DVIIL— Ritchie, 1849.

Robert Ritchie, farm engineer, Edinburgh, has
written "Treatise on barn machinery;" royal 8vo.
A large volume on farming machines and thrashing
machinery of all kinds and degrees. The uses of
sleam power are well discussed.

DIX. — Rawstorne, 1849.
Lruv. Rawstorne, Esq., has v.Titten " New hus-
bandry;" or a complete code of modern agriculture,
drawn partly from the works of the most eminent
agriculturists, and partly from practice and obser-
vation. The miscellaneous nature of this work
recommends its sincerity, and the contents are
valuable, though the truths have been long known.
About 400 pages form the volume. The author has
written on the potato disease, and the waste land of
Ireland.

DX.— Dean, 1850.

G. A. Dean has written " Construction of farm
buildings and labourers' cottages, Land steward
— tenant right," &c.; royal 8vo. This work is on
an extensive and improved scale, and its merit is
very considerable.

DXL— Morton, 1850.
John C. Morton has edited and partly written
"A cyclopaedia of agriculture;" containing the
■whole circle of farming under the alphabetical heads.
It is not too much to say that to the scientific ama-
teur and the practical man this work forms the
largest resource yet ofFered to the agricultural world

for the purpose of amusement and mformation. No
expense nor labour has been spared to render every
part of the work appear in a superior manner, and
the object has been attained. The book is in a
quarto form, and very richly illustrated.

DXII.— Deman, 1851.
E. F. Deman, late technical instructor to the
Royal Flax Society in Ireland, has written " Flax,
its cultivation and management; with instructions
in the various Belgian methods of growing and
preparing it for the market;" price 2s. 6d. This
essay is not inferior to the many treatises on flax.

DXIII.— DCNALD, 1851.

James Donald, civil engineer, Derby, has written
"Land drainage, embankment, and irrigation —
their practical application, and the proper season
fiT such undertakings;" London, ]2mo., 1851.
This work constitutes a most valuable addition to
the former treatises on draining : the author shows
a true practice, and a large comprehension.

DXIV.— Macarthur, 1852,
John Macarthur, surveyor, valuator, and drains
ing engineer, Dublin, has written " An agricultural
catechism," and " An essay on the roots of plants ;
or, an investigation of the growth of agricultural
plants, as displayed by their roots in different soils,
and under various modes of culture, including the
results of a series of experin^ents made in the Vice-
regal Gardens, Dublin. This essay is a very valua-
ble appendage to the physiology of plants, and
exhibits the peculiarities that are performed under
ground, on which the upper development depends
in a very large degree. The study must aflPord
much interest and pleasure, and the author seems
to have pushed the engagement to an extended
limit. The agricultural catechism does the author
very much credit.

DXV.— Haywood, 1852.

Jam.es Haywood has v/ritten " Letter to far-
mers ;" which treat on every department of agri-
culture, and forma useful handbook to every farmer.
The food of plants, air audits composition, climate,
rain, and dew, are regularly treated; followed by
soils, varieties of earths, chemical qualities, and
practical use ; compounds of plants and animal
food, manures, crops, and several combined matters.
The letters are written in a very plain perspicuous
style, and show the acquisition of much practical
knowledge with enlightened sentiments. Public
opinion has given a very favourable reception to the
name of the author, in connection with subjects that
are treated.

DXVL— Smith, 1852.

Joseph A. Smith, lecturer on agricultural che-
mistry, has written " Productive farming ; or a

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103

familiar digest of the recent discoveries of Liebig,
Davy, and other celebrated writers on agricultural
chemistry, showing how the results of Enghsh
tillage might be greatly augmented;" Edin., 1852.
This work is more practical than most books of the
kind ; but nothing new is published.

DXVIL— Kemp, 1852.
T. Lindley Kemp, M.D., has written " Agricul-
tural physiolog}', animal and vegetable, designed
for the use of practical agriculturists ;" Londonand
Edin., 1852, This is an excellent work, clearly
arranged, and very systematically detailed. It is
the ablest thing of the kind, though the use of it
in practice may be distant.

DXVIII.-Nesbit, 1852.

J. C. Nesbit, F.G.S., F.C.S, analytical chemist,
and principal of the Chemical and Agricultural
Academj', Kennington, London, has written " An
essay on the composition and fertilizing qualities of
Peruvian guano, and pointing out the best mode
of its application to the soil;" price Is., London,
1852. This essay excels all the former treatises on
the very valuable article of guano, both in the
scientific comprehension of its properties, and the
applicable value of the virtues it contains. Nothing
is left to vague conjecture or to speculative trust ;
all is placed on the same grounds of estabhshed
lav/s, both in chemistry and practice. The sale has
been rapid and extensive, but not beyond the
merits of the essay.

DXIX.— SiLLETT, 1852.

John Sillett has written " Fork and spade hus-
bandry ;" how a man may get a good living off two
acres of land. " A treatise on feeding, and fatten-
ing pigs," and " How to build a good house for
£65." These treatises are deserving of much com-
mendation.

DXX.— Solly, 1852.

Edward Solly, jun., F.R.S., F.L.S., has written
*' Rural chemistry ; an elementary introduction to
the study of the science in its relation to agricul-
ture;" London, r2mo., 1843. This author writes
well, reasons acutely, and concludes safely. No
writer has displayed a more correct knowledge of
the parts of chemistry that are connected with the
cultivation of the earth, and these branches are ex-
plained, and placed in a very concise and intelligi-
ble form.

DXXI.— Cooke, 1852.

George Wingrove Cooke, barrister at law, has
written " A treatise on the law and practice of agri-
cultural tenancies, with forms and precedents ;"
London, 1850, Bvo. The book occupies 554 pages,
and contains a large collection of legal decisions,
forms, precedents, and provincial customs. There

is much wading in order to arrive at a useful truth.
The time is now come to disentangle negotiations
such as a farming tenancy from all feudal enter-
tainments, and place them on sound economical
principles, and the intelligences of common senee,
reason, and simple justice.

DXXIL— Caird, 1852.

James Caird has written " English agriculture in
1850 and 1851;" one volume, 8vo. Mr. Caird,
Baldoon, Wigtonshire, attracted notice by advo-
cating, against protective duties on foreign corn, the
superior culture of the soil, along with hberal cove-
nants and improving leases. He had met with
favourable circumstances in the soil of his own
farm, in the climate, and the circumstances of
time and obligation under which he was placed,
and he inferred that similar results would be every-
where produced by the use of the same means. It
is not doubted that the results would be similar in
proportion to circumstances, but not by any means
so great in all cases as in one detached application.
The reasoning is clear, but the strict analogy does
not hold.

The writer was employed as commissioner by the
Times newspaper, to journey over England, and
make reports of the farming in each county, and of
any locality or farm that enjoyed a special celebrity.
The reports appeared in the daily paper, and were
afterwards collected into the volume now meii-
tioned. It contains many sensible remarks, and
very shrewd observations, showing a most en-
lightened mind and sound understanding.
DXXIII.— Normandy, 1853,

A, Normandy has written " Farmers' manual of
agricultural chemistry;" price 4s. 6d, The author has
also written " Commercial hand-book of chemical
analysis,"

DXXIV.— MuRPPiY, 1853.

Edmund Murphy, A.B., professor of agriculture/
Queen's College, Cork, has written " The agricul-
tural calculator and farmer's class book;" a small
volume of much merit, and well adapted for the
intended purpose. The work is devised for young
persons, and questions are placed after each chap-
ter, with which to refresh the memory and store
the recollection. The best farmer may gain by the
perusal.

DXXV.— Starforth, 1852.

John Starforth, architect, Edinburgh, has written
" Architecture of the farm ; being a series of de-
signs of farm-houses, farm-steadings, factors'
houses, and labourers' cottages;" 62 engravings,
price £2 2s.

DXXVL— MoRTOxX, 1853,

John Lockhart Morton, land agent, Edinburgh,
has written " Rich farming, and co-operation be-

104

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

tween landlord and tenant." Two editions have
appeared of this essay of 37 octavo pages, stitched,
advocating good farming, liberal covenants, and
moderate rents.

DXXVII.— CORRIGAN, 1853.

Andrew Corrigan, curator of the Royal Dublin
Society's Agricultural Museum, has written " The-
ory and practice of modern agriculture ; to which
is added the breeding and management of sheep,
cattle, pigs, and poultry, with some remarks on
dairy husbandry." This small work is truly a
midlmn in parvo, showing a very correct knowledge
of the articles described.

DXXVIII.— Andrews,

G. H. Andrews, Esq., author of a treatise on
agricultural engineering, has written " The practi-
cal farmer ; a guide to modern husbandry, embrac-
ing the art and science of agriculture, and compre-
hensive instructions on breeding, rearing, grazing,
and fattening stock;" copiously illustrated with
views and plans of animals and implements ; demy,
6s., and in calf 10s. 6d. This work is very credita-
bly reported.

DXXIX.— Ferguson, 1854.

Ferguson and Vance have written an octavo
volume " On tenure of land in Ii-eland," This
work contains a very full and detailed statement of
the various modes of holding land in Ireland, the
cultivation of the soil, its products, and value. A
secure holding of land in cultivation is but little
useful where no capital rests with the farmer ; both
are wanting in Ireland, and fill up the measure of
the misery of the country. Every exposition of the
state of Ireland only shows a picture of human
misery in the superlative degree, mainly produced
by the social mismanagement of the landed pro-
perty, which in every age and clime has exhibited
the same picture of human misrule.

DXXX.— Sussex, 1854.

F. S. M. Sussex, Esq., F.S.A,, has written
" Manures considered in relation to the croj), the
soil, and the atmosphere;" Dorking, 1848. A
stitched volume of 60 octavo pages, discusses the
general tendency of manures very scientifically, but
makes no practical advance. The substances are
not singly mentioned, nor treated separately.

The date of this work should have been placed
earlier in our recorded notice of writers, but the
title did not occur to our research till it was too late
for insertion. In order that no name be omitted,
the notice is now made.

ON THE EXHIBITION OF STOCK AT THE
LINCOLN MEETING.

Sir,— Ob looking over the stock, we saw one great evil still
prevailing, and that is their being over-fed ; nothing but the
decision of the judges can ever remedy Ihe evil. We always

iiave uuderstood it to be a b>cediii[/ shoiv, but where la the
common senae of calling it one ? Nine-tenths or more, of the
cattle shown, could neither get stock nor breed in their present
condition, but will want well physicking and reducing to make
them breeders ; and then where is the constitution ? It must
have suffered, and thus the object of the society is nullified.
The money expended ought to go towards improving the
breeds of domestic animals, and not to hold out a premium to
that man who consumes the greatest amount of artificial food.
We want grass-fed animals, kept in the condition fit for breed-
ing purposes ; and if carried beyond that point, to be dis-
carded. We consider it not enough to be told honestly that
they have had grass, and grass only ; that may be, but they
have been (we are conscious of the fact) put on the best land>
and one of them where more ought to have been, for the ex-
press purpose of fattening to excess ; and then we are mo-
destly told, they are so constitutionally adapted to lay on fat,
they could not show them otherwise. In answer to which,
we would observe, we generally see plenty of poor animals
where these pets come from. We do not want the object of
the society to be frustrated, and the judgment of that body
of agriculturists ridiculed by men of common sense; but we
want to see a show of breeding animals, and not fat ones. In
the pig department partial blindness had happened to many ;
and were we the judges, we would tell the owners SmithfielJ
was the place for them : the remedy rests entirely with the
judges ; let it be known, and the announcement acted upon,
that over-fed animals would be disqualified, and very few
would be foolhardy enough to make a second experiment.
And then see the evil of allowing these over-fed animals to
gain a prize ! We live in a day in which we place no great
credit to anything unless it is profitable ; and the object of the
society we always understood to be, to bring within their
arena as many practical farmers as possible : but then prac-
tical men want to see measures carried out on right principles,
and having for their end that which is profitable, or they will
soon be wanting at the rent audits. We admire the efforts
of the society and truly everything is carried out on a princely
scale, and an honoar to royalty ; but let us get rid of this la-
mentable obesity, f/ivinr/ no countenance to it ; and what would
be the result ? AVhy hundreds of practical farmers who now
stand aloof would come forward, and be exhibitors and sub-
scribers ; and the society would receive an impetus it has yet
been a stranger to. We want especially to see cattle, sheep,
and pigs taken from the common stock of the farm as a sample
of its stock, so that the exhibitor can say. We have plenty more
such at home ; and then all the extravagance, and expense at-
tending these shows would be done away with, and the num-
bers exhibited would be tenfold. When this society started
we expected to see something more practical, and the evil
which had adhered to old ones got rid off. We hear the high
sounding title of "practice" over and over again ; and still let
any practical farmer go to any of its shows, and he sees almost
everything in an artificial state, and practice left at home ;
little or nothing there he would carry out on a large scale to
enable him to meet his landlord, and give him the means of
carrying out improvements on his farm. Starting to mend
former societies, it has established a great difficulty, bringing
with it the influence of royalty and aristocracy; the result is
what might have been foreseen — loss to landlords, and ruin to
tenants who attempt to tread in their steps ; and thus real
practical farming has had an incubus placed upon it, and fears
its influence. If ever the sound constitutional qualities of an
animal is to be transmitted, it must be by keeping that animal
in moderate condition, and able to contend (if we may be al-
lowed the phrase) with common life, and not housed and
petted until it becomes fit {or nothing but a shoio: for ourselves,
we would never destroy the superior qualities of an animal
for the sake of any prize or honour connected therewith. Why
do we hear so much inquiry made about a want of alloy in
our bleeds of domestic animals? It is simply because the evil
of overfeeding is continually undermining the constitution.
The principle is the same, whether applied to man or animals ;
and until the evil is removed, we look on the society's efforts
as being very much like a fancy bazaar, and of little use to
agriculture. Yours, &c.,

Nottingham, July 19. A Fakmer,

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

105

ROYAL AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY OF ENGLAND.

Weekly Council, June 28. — Colonel Challoner,
Trustee, in the Chair.

Early Tares. — The Rev. A. Huxtable transmitted
a specimen of early Tares grown upon his Hill Farm in
Dorsetshire, at an elevation of 600 feet above the level
of the sea. The seeds furnished to him by Mr. W. H.
Davis, of Marnhall, near Blandford, were sown at the
end of the first week in October, and the plants were at
least one month in advance of other " early" Vetches
sown several days before them. The maturity of these
Tares in growth and podding was in Mr. Huxtable's
experience unrivalled ; for, notwithstanding the severe
frosts of the past April, they were in full bloom in the
first week of May ; and he thought it unnecessary to
point out the importance of a crop which would be
available for sheep feeding in the early spring. — Prof.
Way remarked, that great quantities of rain fell upon
the high lands in Mr. Huxtable's district, and the at-
mosphere there was mild but damp. Mr. Baskerville
Glegg stated that in Cheshire the farmers had generally
their crop of Tares by the middle of May.

April Wheat. — Mr. Iltid Thomas, of Hill House,
Swansea, favoured the Council with bis experience of
the cultivation of April Wheat in South Wales. He pre-
ferred it to all other varieties. He had sowed it this
year on the 3rd of May, and in 28 days it had grown to
the height of 6 or 7 inches. The land was a miserable
bottomless gravel in the coal -basin, very much exposed
to every wind, at an elevation of some 500 feet above
the level of the sea, where the vegetation was severely
tried by the action of the copper and patent fuel smoke
of that locality. The grain was strongly retained by the
straw, and the Wheat therefore stood wind well. It was
sown last year on the 25th April, and on account of the
unfavourable nature of the season, he had a very light
crop of it, otherwise it would have yielded from 32 to 35
bushels per acre. He sold the produce at 9s. per bushel,
and for seed at 10s. He had found clover to succeed
very well with it. He did not think it more exhausting
than Barley ; it was sown at the same time as Barley,
with a similar yield of crop, and fetched double the price
in the market. The bread made from it was brown,
but very sweet and agreeable. This April Wheat was a
bearded one, and he highly recommended it for soils not
good enough for higher bred varieties. — Sir Matthew
Ridley referred to the objection offered by the millers
in the north of England against the April Wheat, on ac-
count of its coarseness and thick skin. It was sown in
April and yielded well, but it did not obtain a good
price in the market. — Colonel Challoner stated his
successful cultivation of the Talavera Wheat, which
he sowed very early in the year, and found it
escape the ordinary ravages to which the Wheat
crop was liable. — Mr. Dent, M.P,, alluded to the
excellent crops of April Wheat grown by Mr. Thomp-

son, of Moat Hall, in Yorkshire. His was a bearded
Wheat, and wag gown at the latter end of April.

Manures. — Mr. Andrews, of Cornwall, transmitted
a statement and sample connected with his preparation
of a manure which he considered highly fertilizing, and
at the same time very cheap.™ Mr. Martin, of Elgin,
communicated suggestions for the collection of manure
from marine animals, to be obtained at fishing villages,
by dredging, and by the employment of women and
children in collecting the refuse of fishing-boats.

Rick-machtne. — Mr. Lawes submitted the model
of a machine he had found very useful in raising hay
and corn to the tops of stacks, and for feeding the
thrashing-machines with sheaves. It was similar in its
form and mounting to the common fire-escape, but
having attached at intervals to an endless -revolving
web the rake-work which carried up aloft the hay or
corn required to be stacked. — Colonel Challoner ex-
plained to the Council the very complete arrangements
for effecting similar objects he had recently been in-
vited to inspect at Prince Albert's Farm at Osborne ;
and which had been made for his Royal Highness by
Messrs. Easton and Amos, the Consulting Engineers to
the Society.

Steam Cultivation. — Mr. Murphy, of Cork, com-
municated to the Council a statement of peculiarities
in the construction of his single and double-action
spade-cylinder machine for cutting, turning up, and
pulverizing the soil 10 inches deep by the draught of a
single horse.

Glass Milk-Pans. — Prof. H. Von Bliicher, of
Wasdow, near Rostock (on application to him through
the intervention of M. Kreept, the Mecklenburg Con-
sul-General, in London, and at the suggestion of Mr.
George Raymond Barker), favoured the Council with
the following information connected with the original
black-glass milk-pans of the Pine forests of North
Germany, recommended to the Society by its late
distinguished foreign member. Captain Stanley Carr,
whose recent loss the members have deeply to regret : —

There are only few manufactories of glass in Mecklenburg.
In regard to the black-glass railit-pans, the best are fabricated
by Mr. Cleve, at Karow, by Plan, in Mecklenburg ; and the
surest and cheapest way to procure them would be to apply to
the merchant, Joh Christ. Voigt at Rostock, who deals in
that article, has at present about 3,000 in store, and will send
them direct from Rostock to London. The price for 100 pieces
(extra embellage) is 27 Prussian dollars ; the weight of each is
6— .71b3. (Hamburgh), and the diameter about 17 inches
(English).

Colonel Challoner referred to the great improvement
he had effected in his dairy by raising it, as Captain
Stanley Carr had recommended, for the purpose of

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THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

promoting ventilation. This alteration of from 4 to 6
feet greater height had proved of incalculable value ;
it had cost him £25 to effect it ; but he would not for
four times that sum restore his dairy to its former pro-
portions.

Improvement in Horse Breeding. — Mr. Spooner,
of Southampton, recommended the Council to take
measures, vpith the Crovernment, as well as with the
local societies of the country, for improving the breed
of horses for cavalry and artillery purposes, with the
view of obtaining animals possessing a combination of
activity and strength in the highest degree. He thought
this object would be obtained by encouraging
the breeding of good saddle-horses from the best
brood mares capable of carrying 16 stones, by the
best stallions, well but not thorough-bred, capable
of carrying a similar weight. He thought that such
mares abounded throughout the country, although they
were at present employed for draught and other la-
borious purposes : he considered that the class of male
horses to be used was the one now too frequently cas-
trated, namely, a three-part bred hunter, capable of
carrying a heavy weight up to the fleetest hounds ; such
an animal readily commands some ^200 or £3Q0, when
his excellences are known, and which may in fact be
regarded as the most noble and valuable of the horse
tribe. Mr. Spooner had little doubt that the system
would, in a few years, result in the regeneration of the
English breed of saddle-horses. — Sir Matthew Ridley
referred to the Government establishments in foreign
countries of Haras, for the express purpose of effecting
improvements in the breed of horses (Mr. Evelyn Deni-
son, M.P., on the French Haras, Journal I., 266). In
the north of England, good size, and absence of white
colour, were points to which much attention was paid.
Reference was made to the extensive agency at work in
this country for the purchase of the best English horses
for exportation to the continent, and to the constant
advocacy, by that distinguished veteran. Sir Harry
Smith, for improvements in our breed of horses for
military purposes, by a restoration of the best qualities
of the old English hunter.

Deodara Pine. — Sir Matthew Ridley referred to the
secure manner in which Deodara Pine seeds had reached
him from India, and had retained all their freshness and
vitality, by being enclosed in thin oiled canvas ; and to
the success with which trees of that Pine, 10 years old
had been transplanted from Northumberland to War-
wickshire, where they were at that time growino- most
luxuriantly.

Hamster.— Dr. Calvert stated that rat-like animals
of a large size, supposed to bear some afiSnity to the
hamster, were effecting much damage in Yorkshire, and
also in Hertfordshire.

Mr. Chadwick, C.B., presented the last report of the
Board of Health on sanitary measures connected with
agricultural operations ; and Mr. Rogerson, of St.
Alban's Villa, Highgate-Rise, copies of Essays on the
agricultural value of the Weardale Lime.

Adjourned to July 5.

A MoNTHLy Council was held at the Society's
House in Hanover Square, on Wednesday, the 5th of
July. The following Members of Council and Governors
of the Society were present : — Colonel Challoner,
Trustee, in the Chair; Lord Camoys, Sir John V.
Shelley, Bart., M.P. ; Sir Matthew White Ridley, Bart. ;
Sir Charles Lemon, Bart., M.P. ; Sir Montague
Cholmeley, Bart. ; Sir Robert Price, Bart., M.P. ; Mr.
Raymond Barker ; Mr. Barnett ; Mr. Hodgson Barrow,
M.P. ; Mr. Brandreth ; Mr. Cavendish; Mr. Foley,
M.P. ; Mr. Brandreth Gibbs ; Mr. Hamond ; Mr.
Hoskynsj Mr. Kinder; Mr. Miles, M.P. ; Mr. Mil-
wood; Mr. Sillifant ; Mr. Simpson ; Mr. Wingate, and
Mr. George Wood.

The following new Members were elected : —

Allen, John R., Lyngford House, Taunton, Somersetshire

Andrews, G., Kimpton, Sherborne, Dorset

Ashwiu, Manley C, Stradford-ou-A\'OD, Warwickshire

Bailey, Henry, Wolgoston, Berkeley, Gloucesterahire

Begbie, Alexander, Lytham, Lancashire

Bilkey, Robert, Tremenheere, Penzance

Bland, William James, Boston, Lincolnshire

Deeks, George, Pembridge Villas, Bayswater

Dixon, Thomas P., Caistor, Lincolnshire

Doirington, Chas., Bride's Hall Farm, Wheathampstead, Herts

Dun, Professor Finlay, Heriot-row, Edinburgh

Foster, William, Stourtou Court, Stourbridge, Worcestershire

Fuller, Thomas, Skendleby, Lincolnshire

Gooch, John Valentine, C. E,, Stratford, Essex

Goose, Agas, Theatre-street, Norwich

Hitchcock, Henry James, Horsham, Susses

Hollyday, J., Chapelcleeve, Taunton, Somerset

Hook, Adam Clarke, 13, Great George-street, Westmiaater

Lee, Daniel James, 4, Bedford-row, London

Lyall, Thomas, Gayton-le-Wold, Lincolnshire

Mayfield, James, Dogdike, Boston, Lincolnshire

Mullins, John Bickell, Wyke Manor House, Bruton

Neale, Charles James, Mansfield, Notts

Pond, J. W., Great Totham Hall, Witham, Essex

Powell, Thomas Harconrt, Driakstone Park, Wool pit, Suffolk

Stanier, Francis, Silverdale, Newcastle, Staffordshire

Stirling, William, Terrygate, Dirleton, N.B.

Finances. — Mr. Raymond Barker, Chairman of the
Finance Committee, submitted to the Council the report
on the accounts of the Society, from which it appeared
that the current cash balance in the hands of the bankers
was £1,305.

Lincoln Meeting. — Mr. Miles, M.P., reported
from the General Lincoln Committee the completion of
the works for the meeting, the application made as usual
to the Secretary of State for the Home Department for
the grant of a certain number of detective police from
the Metropolitan Force, the notification from the French
Government of a special deputation to the Lincoln
Meeting, the arrangements concluded with the principal
railways for the conveyance of stock and implements,
and the details in progress connected with the Pavilion
Dinner.— On the motion of Mr. Raymond Barker,
seconded by Mr. Barnett, Messrs. Smith, Ellison, and
Co., of the Old Lincoln Bank, were unanimously re-
quested to act as the local bankers of the Society during
the period of its ensuing country meeting. — The Council

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

107

completed the number of Judges required at Lincoln in
the several departments of the show.

Journal. — Mr. Pusey transmitted from the Journal
Committee a copy of the new Journal just printed off,
and in the course of distribution, postage free, among
the members of the Society throughout the country.

Paris Exhibition, 1855.— Captain Owen, R.E.,
addressed to the Council, from the Department of
Sciencs and Art, Marlborough House, Pall Mall, the
followiag communication, dated the 28th of June last ; —

I am directed by the Lords of the Committee of Privy
Council for Trade to request you to take an early opportunity
of laying before the Council of the Royal Agricultural Society
the accompanying papers, relative to the approaching Paris
Exhibition of 1855. My Lords are very desirous that the
important department of agricultural machinery and imple-
ments should be fully represente 1 upon this occasion, and they
would be much assisted if the Council of the Royal Agricul-
tural Society would yield them their support. Mr. Brimdreth
Gibbs has been so good as to undertake the general super-
intendence of this department, under the di:rection of my
Lords ; but, as it is to be apprehended that the space which it
may be possible to allot to agricultural implements may be
limited, it would be desirable that some independent tribunal
should be appointed, which could decide how the space may
be best disposed of, so as to secure as complete a representa-
tion as the space will admit of. My Lords would be greatly
assisted if the Council would name from four to six persons to
act as a committee, iu conjunction with Mr. Brandreth Gibbs,
for this purpose.

On the motion of Sir Matthew White Ridley, Bart,,
seconded by Mr. Barnett, the following committee was
appointed to act with Mr. Brandreth Gibbs, in pur-
suance of the request of the Board of Trade : — Mr.
Miles, M.P., Colonel Chalioner, Mr. Hamond, Mr.
Fisher Hobbs, Mr. Charles Wren Hoskyns, and Mr.
Brandreth,

L!Ncoi,NSHiRE Farming. — Mr. Thurstan G. Dale,
secretary to the local committee at Lincoln, transmitted
to the Society a copy of " A Farming Tour, or Hand-
book of the Farming of Lincolnshire," prepared by
" A Lindsey Yeoman," for the occasion of the Society's
ensuing country meeting.

Adjourned to special meetings on Tuesday and Friday
next at Lincoln, and to the monthly meeting in London,
on the 2nd August.

MEETING AT LINCOLN.

Constance : " To Lincolnshire !

What, prithee, takes thee off to Lincolnshire ?"

The Love Chase.

The Royal Agricultural Society should feel at
home in Lincolnshire. The visit is that of a tutor
to a pet pupil, or, more appropriately, of a large
landed proprietor to his model farm. It is here
he finds the example for the rest of his tenantry to
imitate. It is here he triumphantly comes to the
proof of all he has been preaching. It is here he

shows what practice with science has accomplished,
and how judicious outlay has arrived at profitable
returns. The Agricultural Society has had to
march into many parts of the kingdom, with its
object but little appreciated, as its eftbrts but com-
paratively little known. The welcome has gene-
rally been hearty enough ; but seldom has it been
so thoroughly satisfactory, either "to him who
gives or him who takes," as in the good city of
Lincoln.

It is not too much to say that the most extra-
ordinary expectations were entertained as to the
success of this meeting; and it is not too much to
add that they have been amply realized. It is an
anniversary that must ever stand out amongst the
most conspicuous of those recorded in the proceed-
ings of the Society. In almost every way has the
result been gratifying. Whether we take the increas-
ing importance attached to these annual displays, as
demonstrated by the attendance, the general ex-
cellence of the show, or the characteristic features
imparted to it by the locality in which it was held—
the conclusion to be arrived at is still the same. It
bears, too, the most trying of all scrutinies with an
equally handsome issue. It is long since any
meeting has added so much to the funds of the
Society; and this question of funds, it must be re-
membered, is one which for some time past has
engaged the serious attention of those on the
direction who devote themselves more particularly
to the business of finance. The poor company at
Lewes, and the gloomy atmosphere of Gloucester,
have been well compensated for, by the still suc-
ceeding crowds, and settled sunshine of Lincoln.

A little consideration will show, that even pre-
vious to this last week's gathering, the national
Society had some thanks due to Lincolnshire.
Many a hint that became gradually embodied in
its prize-list — many a point that the farmers of the
whole kingdom were incited to achieve — might be
easily traced back to the practice of this now
famous county. The very President for this year,
and one of the most prominent members of the
Council, though coming himself from a far distant
quarter, has long since declared himself as the
champion of Lincolnshire farming. The tenant
who wished to know how lie was to do best, was
told to imitate what was done here. The landlord
whose laudable ambition it was to see his property
made the most of, was ordered to learn his duty and
take his share in the good work from his brethren
in Lincolnshire. Indeed, it might even yet be
written that we came more to learn than to teach —
prepared rather to see what the district could show
us, than what we could show it.

The event fully justifies us in saying thus much.
There were few indeed present last week but who

I 2

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THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

will admit they have "learnt something to their ad-
vantage" from the sayings and doings of Lincoln-
shire. The Council of the Society, to begin with,
may add a notion or two yet, towards the perfection
of their system, from what was here done for them.
The aid proffered came in the shape of no merely
empty compliment. It was, on the contrary, essen-
tially practical and serviceable — tending, in fact,
in no small degree, to the uniform and com-
plete success of the show. The Royal Agricultural
Society of England owes an especial vote of thanks
to Mr. Tweed, the Mayor of Lincoln. He contri-
buted not only liberally, but he fortunately obtained
permission to direct the disposal of what he had
offered. And with this he filled up one of the
weakest places that has too long marked the suc-
cession of the Society's meetings. He not only
did this, but he added a feature to a Lincoln show,
without which it would scarcely have been a Lin-
coln show at all.

This, however, was not the only new point ob-
servable. Another, coming more directly from the
Society itself, was brought on for trial at the very
commencement of that long week over which the
business is now distributed. The result here was
in no way so satisfactory. It afforded, indeed,
cause for some very strong complaint, and to which
formal expression was given at the general meeting
on Friday. It has been for some time urged that
the most important feature in an exhibition of im-
plements would be the opportunity to see them at
work. This was said to be especially desirable with
expensive articles, such as reaping and thrashing
machines, of which, in fact, scarcely any satisfac-
tory opinion could otherwise be obtained. A large
portion of the " enquiring" pubhc, it was argued,
were anxious to judge for themselves, and they were
ready to pay handsomely for permission to do so.
In accordance with the object of this prayer, the
council decided that on the payment of ten shillings
for each daj', any visitor so wishing might witness
the implements under trial before the judges.

It is but fair to add, that but very few availed
themselves of this opportunity, and that fewer still
were satisfied when they did so. They rarely saw
what they came to see, but were kept for hours with
little or nothing doing, and often enough tired
out before their turn came on. There was no
chance either of filling up the interim. Bluch to
their astonishment, the common run of the imple-
ment department was refused them, and great was
the m.urmuring thereon. Mr. Bullock Webster
brought this matter, as we have said, directly
before the Society ; his complaint being answered
by Mr. Hammond, the senior steward of the yard.
This gentleman urged, with much fairness, that it
would be highly impolitic to have the judges inter-

fered with, or inconvenienced, while engaged on
their really arduous, and not very grateful duties.
He further stated, however, that the Society was
by no means satisfied with the working of the
present arrangement, and that it was in contem-
plation to lov/er the price of admission on these
occasions. We are more inclined to think that
the chief cause of complaint is not exactly
here : it is not so much the amount of ad-
mission charged, as the assurance that the
visitor shall see something for what he does pay.
There should be some oflScial programme published,
announcing at what hours certain implements would
be put to work, and which the public would be
allowed to witness. With such a proviso, there
could be no further grumbling as to waste of either
time or money. A man would know what he paid
to see, and when he might see it. It is not every
one who will make himself the mouthpiece of the
dissatisfied. Their wrongs, however, cannot too
soon come on to a hearing ; and we believe the
management of the Society is, as it ought to be,
really grateful for the gentlemanly manner in which
the case of the disaffected was brought before them.
There can be no question that the mistake was a
grave one.

With a correspondent who has especially de-
voted his labours to this branch of the show-yard,
we shall not here enter much further, either on
the character, or trial, of the different kinds of
machinery. We may yet say that the imple-
ments generally were still considered on the
improvement. There were very few of at all an
inferior description, while the trials were never
so thoroughly, or, generally speaking, so satisfac-
torily taken. The only remarkable exception,
perhaps, was in that of the deep ploughs, which
involved so severe and long a struggle between the
Ransomes' and Howards'. Eight horses to draw
one, three men to hold on, and nobody knows how
many to drive — the test was pronounced by the
public, and admitted by the steward, to be " per-
fectly absurd." It was urged, though, that no
better ground for the trial could be procured ;
whereas it was rumoured, on the contrary, that
this piece had been specially selected to see what
the implements were made of. As Mr. Hammond
justly said, it proved there was " no gingerbread
work in them ;" though we trust for the future
eight horses and eight or ten men will not be
deemed exactly essential for a fair trial of that still
standard implement — the plough. Far more conclu-
sive was the award for the reaping machines ; a
race in which Crosskill's Bell was pronounced at
last to be fairly beaten. The winner, Mr. Dray's
machine, has from time to time been more and
more improved ^upon, until at length it may

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

109

take a high position amongst " the farmers'
friends."

We may leave to another correspondent, whose
communication we are enabled to give this day, the
cattle department of the exhibition. It has rarely
been so strong — in some particular classes never
perhaps equalled. Take the class of Shorthorn
cows, or the whole of the Cotswold sheep, and we
remember nothing like them in general excellence.
The horses, again, though in some classes excep-
tional, furnished a stronger show than the Royal
Agricultural Society has been able for some time to
boast of. The liberahty, moreover, of Mr. Tweed,
proved it is yet possible, by the offer of suitable pre-
miums, to ensure the entry of well-bred horses.
There were eight or ten thorough-bred horses in
competition for this prize, nearly all of some re-
nown either on the turf or in the stud. The winner
of the prize, Loutherborough, a son of Camel and
a good race-horse, has been for some time abroad.
One of his competitors. Maroon, not even com-
mended here, is already a prize horse in Yorkshire,
and a favourite stallion there. Amongst the
draught-horses, the Suffolks were of course out-
numbered, though they made a very good fight of
it, even in so formidable a quarter as Lincolnshire —
Mr. Barthropp again leading the way with a very
perfect filly.

"We regret to have to echo a charge against
this department of the Show of the Royal Agricul-
tural Sociey, that has already been too often and
too justly brought against it. The practice of
over-feeding is reaching once again all its pristine
notoriety. The judges did their duty as judges,
and, like Tom Thumb in the play, " they did no
more." They awarded prizes to Shorthorns
just fit to kill. They honourably distinguished
pigs that could scarcely stand or breathe ;
and they selected sheep as best adapted for the
purposes of the breeder, when they too clearly
meant the butcher. We honestly confess that we
have little hope at present of any amendment here.
If it comes at all, it will be from the example of
others. The Birmingham Society has, in its ma-
nagement, already afforded a good hint to others of
a more extended action. It may help us yet further,
and in the Summer Show which it contemplates
next year, demonstrate what we beheve will be
aimed at — that a breeding show may be brought
within the hmit of that object only it professes to
attain.

It is painful, where there is so much to commend,
to have to notice flaws of this kind. We are con-
vinced, however, that the best friends of a man, or
a society, are those who will not hesitate to tell
him his faults ; and the Royal Agricultural
Society has only to fear too strong an assump-

tion of that royal prerogative that " it can do no
wrong."

An important feature, it has been said, in any
business of a public nature to which an Englishman
devotes his energies, is the dinner with which he
commences or concludes his operations. It is by
no means the least so in the proceedings of the
Agricultural Society. Unfortunately, Mr. Pusey
was again prevented from presiding, as he was last
year from occupying his place as vice-president at
Gloucester. In his absence. Lord Chichester
kindly took vipon himself the duties of the Chair,
supported by Lords Yarborough, Carlisle, For-
tescue, and other distinguished men, of all nations.
The most noticeable amongst these were the gen-
tlemen representing the French deputation. It is
said they have gone very minutely into the system
of management adopted on these occasions ; and
that, having done so, they have especially re-
quested the aid of Mr. Brandreth Gibbs
towards estabhshing some meeting of a simi-
lar kind in their own country. There
could scarcely be a better proof of how
profitable a deduction they have made from what
they have seen. We can hardly trust ourselves to
say how much of the systematic success of these
shows depends upon Mr. Brandreth Gibbs. En-
tirely independent of all personal influences, im-
bued with most business-like habits, and possessed
of a rare knowledge of those he has to deal with, it
would be difficult indeed to supply his place. Mr.
Hudson's value as the secretary to so important a
body is more known, perhaps, " in the chamber
than the field;" while with two such allies the
Council must feel how much rests on their own
heads. They have only to determine discreetly,
and there is no fear of their instructions being
efficiently carried out. It would be unfair to with-
hold a word here in thanks to the stewards of the
different departments. They discharged a very
difficult and laborious task with much ability, tem-
per, and discretion.

The dinner, admirably arranged and fully
attended as usual, was still scarcely so successful
as we have known it. The different speakers
were hardly fitted to the subjects their names
were coupled with. Lord Carlisle, for instance,
might have been made much more use of than
where he was placed. In addition to this, there
was hardly a speaker but committed the fatal mis-
take of having too much to say ; so that when Mr.
Wren Hoskyns rose for the concluding oration,
and equally prone, we must add, to sin in this re-
spect, there were few who had patience to bear with
him. It was only Colonel Sibthorp's challenge
from Lincoln to " all the Russias" that fully restored
the good humour of a long-tried audience.

110

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

This is the only evening in the week in any way
occupied. It does strike U5 that one at least of the
others— say Thursday— might be turned to some
account. A very praiseworthy effort was made
here to draw out the Lincolnshire men on the sub-
ject of draining, and the Town Hall was thrown
open for the occasion. From being, however, but
partially announced, the attendance did not exceed
a hundred or so. The subject was still pursued
with much interest and ability, Mr. Bailey Denton
and Mr. Bullock Webster being once again " in
hostile array."

The absence of Mr. Pusey from the recent meet-
ing at Lincoln is to be regretted for many reasons.
Rarely, indeed, has any president for the year been
elected, to whom the compliment was so especially
suitable as to the gentleman whose name occupied
that distinguished position on the present occasion.
He it is who has long been the connecting link
between the improved farming of Lincolnshire and
the operations of the Royal Agricultural Society.
Forcibly struck with the progress he here saw
achieved, as fully satisfied as to how it had com-
pensated those who effected it, his object became
to induce others to go and do likewise. In
leading them on to this, he showed not merely
what was accomplished, but the means by which
these wonders came to pass. The secret of all
this success was, after all, but a simple matter of
business — the increased income of the owner, the
improved condition of the occupier, and the natu-
rally good understanding that existed between
them, all traced back to the plain fact of there being
a good understanding to begin with. What turned
the heaths and fens of Lincolnshire from barren
wastes into blooming corn fields? How came the
wild-fowl to give way to the sheep-fold, or the short-
horn to multiply where the rabbit only had been ?
By what art did the magician attain all this ? It is
but an old story, whose moral once again has come
to a profitable application. He imbued these people
with confidence in themselves and each other, and
then left it with them to do their best.

The presence of Mr. Pusey could scarcely fail to
have given more tone to the festival of Wednesday
last. It would ill have become such m.en as Lord
Yarborough and others to have vaunted their own
triumphs, though any such well-merited compli-
ment would have come in capital place at the hands
of a visitor. With every respect, however, for the
gentlemen who did offer their tribute, it certainly
struck us that the subject was a little too much
for them. There was hardly one but had some-
thing to say in reference to what Lincolnshire
now is, and v/hat it has been. There was
scarcely one, though, who got beyond this.
The only reason, indeed, that we remember to

have heard assigned for this remarkable transfor-
mation was, the variety of soil of which the different
districts were composed. This it was that had
made lands never farmed at all the best farmed in
the kingdom. This was the grand reason why
" Lincolnshire stood forward so pre-eminently.''

Surely we all know of something more than this.
If not, Mr. Pusey has preached to very httle pur-
pose. It is the farmer, as Mr. Clarke writes in his
prize essay on the county, who " has made the
soil," and not the soil the farmer. It is the chalking,
the claying, the boning, the manuring, that has
become the foundation upon which the Lincolnshire
man has built his house ; the application of capital
to the soil, that has so increased its production —
the security for that capital, that alone has war-
ranted its application.

The stranger who has completed his visit to Lin-
coln by a tour through the neighbouring districts
will scarcely fail to be struck by the position here
maintained by the farmer. Living on the best
terms with his landlord, with the union between
them as strong as it is possible to have it, the occu-
pier has yet all the enjoyments of independence.
Holding, as he will most probably tell you,
without a lease, and yet keeping to the same
ground his father did before him, his guest
can hardly help asking by what happy agency
all this excellence is maintained. What good spirit
is it, breathing its influence over the country, which
thus gives to landlord and tenant such continued
prosperity ? What is it that has so increased the
employment of the labourer and the comfort of
the people ?

As we have said before, it is simply the plan of
doing business in a business-hke way. The good
feehng between the Lincolnshire landlord and his
tenant is not merely a kind consideration on the
one part, or blind confidence on the other. There
is the clear action of the law of right between them.
This it is which regulates all their dealings, and
prompts each to do his best. Skill, energy, and
capital all unite where they feel they are sure of
their reward.

Mr. Pusey has instanced Lincolnshire as the
best farmed county in the kingdom. Will any
who has just been over it be prepared to dis-
agree with him ? He has gone further than this,
and given the great secret of its success in the in-
fluence of the TENANT-RIGHT principle. Will any
one here, either, say him nay ? Will an)"- one, who
perhaps for years has been taught to shudder at
the very name, ignore its virtues now that he has
seen what it has accomplished ? We can
only repeat the expression of our regret
at Mr. Pusey being denied the opportunity
of ^vitnessing the full triumph of those opinions,

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

Ill

and that advice with which he has so long iden-
tified himself. The best exhibition the Society has
had for many years, held in the best-cultivated
quarter it perhaps ever visited, came only in cor-
roboration of what their president has so long told
them. Agriculture must depend for its advance on
the judicious outlay of capital ; while the use of this
capital can never be commanded without due se-
curity for its investment.

LIST OF PRIZES FOR CATTLE.

Shorthorns.

Judges — Messrs. Thomas Parkinson, Thomas Frotter, and
John Wright.

Bulls, calved previously to the 1st of July, 1852, and not
exceediug four years old. — First prize £40, William Sauday,
of Holme Pierrepont, near Nottingham, and Henry Smith, of
the Grove, Cropwell Butler, near Bingham ; second prize £20,
Richard BooUi, of Warlaby, Northallerton, Yorkshire.

Bulls, calved since the 1st of July, 1852, and more than one
year old. — First prize £25, William Odling, of Buslingthorpe,
Market Rasen; second prize £15, Charles To wneley, of Towne-
ley-park, Burnley, Lanc.ishire.

Bull Calf, above six months and under 12 months old —
The prize £10, Charles Towneley, of Towne!ey-park, Burnley,
Lancashire.

Cow in Milk or in Calf. — First prize £20, Charles Towneley,
of Towneley-park, Burnley, Lancashire; second prize £10,
John Booth, of Killerby, Catterick, Yorkshire.

Heifers iu Milk or in Calf, not exceeding three years old. —
First prize £1 5, James Douglas, of Athelstaneford-farm, Drem.
East Lothian ; second prize £10, Charles Towneley, of Towne-
ley-park, Burnley, Lancashire.

Yearliug Heifers. — First prize £10, Charles Towneley, of
Towneley-park, Burnley, Lancashire ; second prize £5, George
Saiusbury, of the Priory, Corsham, Chippenham.

Herefords.

Judges — Messrs. Edward L. Franklin, John Charles Lang-
lands, and John Williams.

Bulls, calved previously to the Lit of July, 1852, and not
exceeding four years old. — First prize £40, Edward Price, of
Court-house, Leominster; second prize £20, John Carwardine,
of Stockton Bury, Leominster.

Bulls, calved aince the Ist of July, 1852, and more than one
year old. — First prize £25, James Rea, of Monaughty, Knigh-
ton, Radnor; second prize £15, W. Styles Powell, Castle-street,
Hereford.

Bull Calf, above six and under 12 months old. — The prize of
£10, Edward Price, Court-house, Leominster.

Cows in Milk or iu Calf,— First prize £20, Philip Turner, of
the Leen, Perabridge, Leominster ; a second prize £10, Lord
Berwick, of Croukhill, Shrewsbury.

Heifers in Mdk or iu Calf, not exceeding three years old. —
First prize £15, William Perry, of Cholstrey, Leominster ;
second prize £10, the Earl of Radnor, of Coleshill-house,
Highworlh, Wilts.

Yearling Heifers. — First prize £10, John Walker, of West-
field-house, Holmer, Hereford ; second prize 51., Philip Turner,
of the Leeu, Pembridge, Leominster.

Devons.
Judgei— Messrs. Edward L. Franklin, John Charles Lang-
lands, and John Williams,
Bulls, calyed previously to the Ist of July, 1852, and not

exceeding four years old. — First prize 40/,, Samuel Farthing,
of Stowey Court, Bridgewater ; second prize 20Z., George^
Turner, of Barton, Exeter.

Bulls, calved since the 1st of July, 1852, and more than one
year old. — First prize 25Z., Robert Wright, of Moor Farm.
Taunton ; second prize 151., James Quartly, of MoUand House,
Southmoltou.

Bull calf, above six and under 12 mouths old, — The prize
101. , George Turner, of Barton, Exeter.

Cows in Milk or in Calf. — First prize 20Z., Samuel Farthing
of Stowey Court, Bridgewater ; second prize 10/., Earl of Lei-
cester, Holkham, Wells, Norfolk.

Heifers in Milk or in Calf, not exceeding three years old. —
First prize 15/., George Turner, of Barton, Exeter; second^
prize 10/., James Quartly, of MoUand House, Southmoltou.

Yearling Heifers. — First prize 10/., George Turner, of Bar-
ton Exeter ; second prize 51., Thomas Webber, of Halberton
Court, Tiverton,

Otpier Breeds, not including the Shorthorn,
Hereford, or Dsvon Breeds.

Judges— Messrs. Edward L. Franklia, John Charles Lang-
lands, and John Williams.

Bulls, calved since the Ist of July, 1852, and more than
one year old. — The prize 10/., Samuel Burbery, of Wroxhall,
Warwick.

Cows in Milk or in Calf. — First prize 1 0/., Captain Inge, of
Thorpe Constantiue, Tam worth, Staffordshire ; second prize
51., Samnel Burbery, of Wroxhall, Warwick.

Yearling Heifers. — The prize 5/., Captaia Inge, of Thorpe
Constautine, Staffordshire.

Horses.

Judges— Messrs. J. H. Bland, William Linton, and W, C.
Spooner.

Stallions for Agricultural Purposes, foaled previously to the
1st of January, 1852. — First prize 30/., James Stockdale, of
Hutton Cranswick, Driffield ; second prize 20/., Edward and
Matthew Reed, Beemish Burn, Chester-le-Street.

Stallions for Agricultural Purposes, foaled iu the year 1852.
— First prize 20/ , Frederick Thomas Bryan, of Knossingtou,
Oakham ; second prize of 10/., William Wilson, of Ashbock-
ing, Ipswich.

Agricultural Stallion, foalei in the year 1853. — The prize,
15/., Robert Howard, of Rise Farm, Nocton, Lincoln.

Roadster Stallions. — The prize 15/, Joseph Innocent, of
Rossiugton, Bawtry.

Mares and Foals for Agricultural Purposes. — First prize 20/.,
Dr. Timm, of Scrooby House, Bawtry ; second prize 10/.,
Isaac Page, of West Bergholt, Colchester.

Two Years Old Fillies for Agricultural Purposes.— First
prize 15/., N. G. Barthropp, of Cretingham Rookery, Wood-
bridge ; second prize 10/., Charles Bayles, of Riseholme, Lin-
coln.

SHEEP.

Leicesters.

Judges — Messrs. Robert Aylmer, W. Harrison, and Wm,

Smith.

Sheading Rams.— First prize 30l., T. E. Pawlett, of Bees-
ton, Sandy, Beds ; second prize 15l., T. E. Pawlett, of Bees-
ton, Sandy, Beds.

Rams of any other a;;e. — First prize 30l , John Borton, of
Barton-house, Barton-le-Street, Malton; second prize 15l.,
William Abraham, of Barnet'oy-le-Wold, Brigg, Lincolnshire.

Pens of five Shearling Ewes of the same flock. — First prize
20l., George Walmsley, Rudstone, Bridlington, Yorkshire

113

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

second prize IOl., William Abraham, of Bametby-le-Wold,
Brigg, Lincolushire,

Southdown, or other Shortwoolled Sheep.

Judges — Messrs, George Brown, John Claydeu, and Edward

Pope.

Shearling Rams. — First prize 30l , Henry Lugar, of Hen-
grave, Bury St. Edmund's ; second prize 15l., the Duke of
Richmond.

Rams of any other age. — First prize 30l., William Sains-
bury, of West Lavington, Devizes; second prize 15l., William
Rigden, of Hove, Brighton.

Pens of five Shearling Ewes of the same flock. — First prize
of 20l., Lord Walsingham, Merton-hall, Thetford ; second
prize IOl., the Duke of Richmond.

LONGWOOLLED ShEEP.

(Not qualified to compete as Leicesters.)

Judges — Messrs. Hugh Aylraer, Henry Bateman, and William

Hesseltine.

Shearling Rams. — First prize 30l., George Fletcher, of
Shipton, Andoversford, Cheltenham ; second prize 15l., George
Hewer, of Leygore, Northleach, Gloucester.

Rams of any other age. — First prize 30l., William Lane, of
Broadfield Farm, Northleach; second prize 15l., William
Lane, of Broadfield Farm, Northleach.

Pen of five Shearling Ewes of the same flock. — First prize
20l., William Game, of Aldsworth, Northleach ; second prize
IOl., William Lane, of Broadfield Farm, Northleach.

Improved Lincoln Sheep.

Judges — Messrs. Hugh Aylmer, Henry Bateman, and William
Hesseltine.

Shearling Rams.— First prize 15 l., John Clarke, of Long
Sutton, Lincolnshire; second prize IOl., Thomas Greetham, of
Stainfield, Wragby, Lincolnshire.

Rams of any other age. — The prize 15l,, John Clarke, oj
Long Sutton, Lincolnshire.

Pens of five Shearling Ewes of the same flock. — The prize
] Ol., John Kirkham, of Hagnaby, Spilsby, Lincolnshire.

Pigs.

Judges — Messrs. H. Eddison, John Grey, and Benjamin

Swaffield.

Boars of a large breed. — First prize 15l., Henry Blandford,
of Sandbridge, Chippenham ; second prize 5l., Matthew Har-
vey, of Balderton, Newark, and Joseph Branston, of Newark
(assignees of Samuel Fryer).

Boars of a small breed. — First prize 15l., William Northey,
of Lake Lifton, near Launcestou ; second prize 51.., Solomon
Ashton, of Peter- street, Manchester.

Breeding Sow of a large breed. — The prize IOl., Edward
Robinson, of Green Bank Lymm, Warrington.

Breeding sow of a small breed. — The prize IOl., George
Mangles, of Givendale, Ripon.

Pen of three Breeding Sow Pigs of a large breed, of the same
litter, above four and under eight months old. — Thepri IOl.
William James Saddler, of Bentbam Purton, Swindon.

Pen of three Breeding Sow Pigs of a small breed, of the
same litter, above four and under eight months old. — The prize
IOl., the Earl of Radnor, Coleshill-house, Highworth.

SPECI.4.L PRIZES OFFERED BY J.T.TWEED, ESQ, MAYOR
OF LINCOLN.

I. Hunters.
Hunting Stallions. — The prize 40l,, John E, Denison, of
Ossington, Newark, Notts.

Hunting gelding or filly.-— First prize 20l., Richard Stock-
dale, of Skerne, Driflield ; second prize 1 Ol., William Marris,
of Great Limber, Ulceby, Jjincolnshire.

n. Improved Lincoln Sheep.
Shearling Ram.— The prize IOl, John Clarke, of Long
Sutton, Lincolnshire.

Ram of any age. — First prize IOl., John Clarke, of Long
Sutton, Lincolnshire ; second prize 5l., John Clarke, of Long
Sutton, Liucolnshire.

Pen of five Shearling Ewes. — The prize 5l., John Kirkham,
of Hagnaby, Spilaby.

POULTRY.

Judges— Messrs. G. J. Andrews, John Bailey, and Thomas

Wright.

Dorking Fowls — Cock and Two Hens — Chickens of 1854.

First prize £5 to H. D. Davis, of Spring Grove House,

Hounslow.

Second prize £3 to H. D. Davis, of Spring Grove House,
Hounslow.

Third prize £3 to Joseph Smith, of Henley in Arden,
Warwick.

Fourth prize £1 to James Lewry, of Haudcross, Crawley,
Suase.x.

Dorking Fowls more than one year old — Cock and two Hens.
First prize 5/, to H. D. Davies, Spring Grove House,
Hounslow,

Second prize 3Z. to Mrs. Towneley Parker, of Astley Hall,
Chorley, Lancashire.

Third prize 21. to Mrs. Towneley Parker, of Astley Hall,
Chorley, Lancashire.

Fourth prize 1/. to G. A. Gelderd, of Aikrigg End, Kendal,
Westmoreland.

Dorking Cocks of aoy age.
First prize 21, to G. A. Gelderd, of Aikrigg End, Kendal,
Westmoreland.

Second prize II. to Mrs. Towneley Parker, Astley Hall,
Chorley, Lancashire.

Spanish Fowls — Cock and two hens.
First prize £5 to H. D. Davies, of Spring Grove House,
Hounslow.

Second prize 3/, to George Botham, of Wexham Court,
Slough, Bucks,

Third prize 21. to H. D. Davies, of Spring Grove House,
Hounslow.

Fourth prize II. to G. A. Gelderd, of Aikrigg End, Kendal,
Westmoreland.

Spanish Cocks of any age.
The prize 21. to James Dixon, of Westbrook Place, Bradford,
Yorkshire.

Cochin China Fowls — Cock and two Hens — Chickens of 1854.
First prize 51. to G. A. Gelderd, of Aikrigg End, Kendal,
Westmoreland.

Second prize 3/. to G. A. Gelderd, of Aikrigg End, Kendal,
Westmoreland.

Third prize 21. to John Taylor, jun., of Spring Grove,
Hounslow,

Fourth prize II. to William Sanday, of Holme Pierrepont,
Nottingham.

Cochin China Cocks of any age.
The prize 21. to Caborn Pockliugton, of Boston, Lincoln.

Bramah Poutra Fowls — Cock and two hens.
The prize 21. to the Rev. F. Thursby, of Abington Rectory,
Northampton.

Game Fowls — Cock and two Hens.
First prize 5/. to Henry Won-al, of Knotty Ash House, near
Liverpool,

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

113

Second prize 21. to G. C. Adkins, of West House, Edgbas-
ton, Birmingham.
Third prize II. to William Cox, of Brailsford, near Derby.

Game Cocks of any age.
The prize £2 to Henry Marshall, of Cotgreave, Nottingham.
Hamburgh Fowls— Golden Spangled Cock and two Hens.
First prize £2 to Wm. Sylvester, of Stamp-office, Lincoln.
Second prize £1 to John Andrew, of Waterhouses, Ashton-
under-Lyne.

Hamburgh Fowls— Silver Spangled Cock and two Hens.
First prize £2 to James Dixon, of Westbrook-place,
Bradford.

Second prize £1 to Jeffrey Ashcroft, of Waterloo -place,
A shton-under-Ly ne.

Malay Fowls — Cock and two Hens.
First prize £2 to James Oldham, of Long Eaton, Derby.
Second prize £1 to the Eev. T. Lyon Feilowes, of Beightoa
Kectory, Acle, Norfolk.

Poland Fowls — Cock and two Hens.
First prize £3 to G. C. Adkins, of West House, Edghaston,
Birmingham.

Second prize £2 to G. C. Adkins, West House, Edgbaston,
Birmingham.

Third prize £1 to C. Rawson, of the Hurst, 'Walton-on-
Thames.

Turkeys — Cock and two Hens.
First prize £3 to Viscount Hill, of Hawkstone, Shrewsbury.
Second prize £2 to C. Pocklington, of Boston, Lincoln.
Third prize £1 to H. Lister Maw, of Tetley, Crowie,
Lincoln.

Geese — Gander and two Geese.
First prize £3 to Mrs. Towneley Parker, of Astley-hall,
Chorley, Lancashire.

Second prize £2 to Mrs. Harriet Hill, of New House,
Walton-on-Thames.

Third prize £1 to Christopher Rawson, of the Hurst,
Walton-on-Thomas.

Aylesbury Ducks — Drake and two Ducks.
First prize £3 to W. G. K. Breavington, of Vicarage
Farm, Hounslow.

Second prize £2 to H. D. Davies, of Spring Grove-house,
Hounslow.
Third prize £1 to G. A. Gelderd, of Aikrigg-end, Kendal.

Rouen Ducks — Drake and two Ducks,
First prize £3 to Geo. Bothara, of Wexham Court, Slough.
Second prize £2 to Thomas Teanby, of Ulceby, Hull.
Third prize £1 to Charles Punchard, of Blunt's Hall,
Haverhill, Suffolk.

Ducks of any other variety — Drake and two Ducks.
First prize £2 to Henry Worrall, of Knotty Ash-house,
near Liverpool.

Second prize £1 to T. M. Keyworth, of Cottesford-place,
TJncoln.

LIST OF PRIZES FOR IMPLEMENTS.

The judges who awarded the prizes in the implement de-
partment were Messrs. R. W. Baker, 11. B. Caldwell, John
Clarke, J. H. Nalder, William Owen, J. J. Rowley, Joseph
Druce, J. V. Gooch, Thomas Huskinson, Thomas Scott, Wm.
Tindall, and O. Wallis.

PRIZES.

For the plough best adapted for general purposes 51. —
Ransomes and Sims.

For the plough best adapted for ploughing more than ten
inches deep 51. — James and F. Howard.

For the best machine for making draining tiles or pipes for
agricultnral purposes 5?. — Thomas Scragg,

For the best cultivator, grubber, and scarifier, 51. — E. H,
Bentall.

For the best drill for general purposes 10?. — Richard
Hornsby and Son.
For the best corn and seed drill lOL — R. Hornsby and Son.
For the best and most economical com drill for small occu-
pations 51. — James Smyth and Son.

For the best and most economical small-occupation seed
and manure drill for flat or ridged work 51. — Richard
Garrett and Son.

For the best turnip drill on the flat, with manure, 57.—
Richard Hornsby and Son.

For the best turnip drill on the ridge, with manure, 51. — ■
Richard Hornsby and Son.

For the best liquid manure or water drill 51. — Hugh Carson.

For the best manure distributor IQl. — Thomas Cham-
bers, jun.

For the best horse hoe on the flat 57. — Richard Garrett
and Son.

For the best horse hoe for setting out or thinning turnips
57. — Richaid Garrett and Son.

For the best reaping machine 207. — Wm. Dray and Co.

For the best portable steam engine, not exceediug 8-horse
power, applicable to thrashing or other agricultural purposes
207. — Hornsby and Son.

For the second best ditto 107. — Ransomes and Sims.

For the best fixed steam engine, not exceeding 10-horse
power, applicable to thrashing or other agricultural purposes
207. — Ransomes and Sims.

For the second best ditto 107. — Wm. Dray and Co.

For the best portable thrashing machine, not exceeding 6-
horse power, for larger occupations, 107. — R. Hornsby & Son.

For the best portable thrashing machine, not exceeding 8-
horse power, with shaker, riddle, aud winnower, that will best
prepare the corn for the finishing dressing machine, to be
driven by steam, 207. — Clayton, Shuttleworth, and Co.

For the best fixed thrashing machine, not e.xceeding 8-horse
power, with shaker, riddle, and winnower, that will best pre-
pare the corn for market, to be driven by steam, 207. —
Clayton, Shuttleworth, and Co.

For the best grinding mill for breaking agricultural produce
into meal 57. — Clayton, Shuttleworth, and Co.

For the best chaff cutter, to be worked by hand power
37. — James Cornes.

For the best turnip cutter 37. — Bernhard Samuelson.

For the best machine to reduce roots to a pulp 37. —
Frederick Phillips.

MISCELLANEOUS.

For a useful farmer's cart, medal — William Busby.

Ditto, medal— Thomas Milford.

A cottage stove and cooking apparatus, medal — W. N.
Nicholson.

A useful and economic drainage level, medal— Henry
Atwood Thompson.

One-horse cart, medal — William Crosskill.

For corrugated piping, medal — Burgess and Key.

Improved mode of screening clay, with a high commenda-
tion of his tile machines, medal — John Whitehead.

Patent steam draining plough, medal — Fowler and Fry.

SPECIALLY COMMENDED.
For combined thrashing machine — E. and T. Humphries.

HIGHLY COMMENDED.
Drill for general purposes — Richard Garrttt and Son,
Corn and seed drill — Richard Garrett and Son.

114

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

Turnip drill on the ridge, with manure— Richard Garrett
and Son.

For the plough adapted for ploughing more than ten
inches deep — Ransome and Sims.

For the plough adapted for general purposes — J. and F.
Howard.

Haud chaff-cutter — Barrett, Exall, and Andrewea.

Ditto — Ransomes and Sims.

A useful applicitioa of tubular iron to agricultural pur-
poses— W. N. Nicholson.

Stoves for cottage bed rooms — W. N. Nicholson.

Improved patent horse rake — J. and F. Howard.

Improved horae drag rake — Ransomes and Sims.

Bruce's patent stable fittings — Ransomes and Sims.

Hay-maker — Smith and Ashby.

For a useful p'ank-s'ded cart — John Cook.

For models connected with drainage— J. Bailry Denton.

For his improved cauldron for preparing asphalte — John
Woods.

For a usefid three-ton cart, and cattle weighing machines-
Richard Forshaw and Co.

Farm and village fire engine — Richard Forshaw and Co.

COMMENDED.

Horse hoe for setting out and thinning turnips — Richard
Garrett and Son.

Portable Patent Iron Housed Steam Engine — Tuxford and
Sons.

Reaping machine — William Crosskill.

Subsoil plough — William Smith.

Hand chaff-cutter— Dray and Co.

Ditto — Garrett and Co.

Improved cart-saddle — James Dunlop.

Seed and corn separator — John Gillara.

Useful one-horse cart — John Barker.

IroQ gates — Barnard and Bishop.

Fixed Steam Engine — Tuxford and Sous.

Farm and village fire-engine — Dray and Co.

Useful stable furnishings — Mapplebeck and Lowe.

Improvement in snythe plates — Mapplebeck and Lowe.

Corn and seed dril' — Williaoi Walker.

Combined thrashing machine — R. Garrett and Sons.

Ploujh for general r urposes — Wiliam Busby.

Screw jack — Jol:n Eaton.

Plough for general purposes — William Ball.

Ditio — Burgesa and Key.

Cultivator, grubber, and scarifi>:r— R, Coleman.

Ditto— William Crosekill.

Ditto— Charles Hart.

THE DINNER

Took pkce at the north end of the show yard, in the pavilion
already described. The arrangements of Mr. Holt, of Radley's
Hotel, New Bridge-street, Blackfriars, London, were, as usual,
excellent ; and an abundance of glass, china, and earthenware
was furnished for the occasion by Mr. W. R. Fish, of Lincoln.
The doors of the pavilion were opened at three o'clock, and
the rush for seats continued until the whole building, with
seating for 800 persons, was nearly filled. A few minutes after
four o'clock the chair was taken by the Right Hon. the Earl
of Chichester (in the absence of Mr. Pusey, the President of
the Society, through the severe indisposition of Mrs. Puaey),
and his lordship was supported (on the right and left) by the
Mayor of Lincoln (J. T. Tweed, Esq.), the Right Hon. the
Earl Yarborough, the Right Hon. the Earl of Harrowby, the
Right Hon, R. A. Christopher, M,P., James Banka Stanhope,

Esq., M.P., the Peruvian Minister, a deputation from the Em-
peror of the French (consisting of the Due de Meille, M. Yvart,
M. de St. Marie, M. Chambellan, M. Boitell, and M. Lefour),
the Right Hon. the Earl of Carlisle, the R:ght Hon. the Earl
of Mansfield, the Right Hon. Lord Dacre, Mr. Daubeney, Col.
Sibthorpe, M.P., G. F. Heneage, Esq., M.P. The vice-chair
was filled by Wdliam Miles, Esq., M.P., supported by A.
Wilson, Esq., the High Sheriff of Lincolnshire (M. Collignon),
the ex-Mayor of Lincoln (R. G. Hill, Esq.), the Town
Clerk (Rd. Mason, Esq.), — Thompson, Esq., of Kirkby
Hall, the Baron Laffart, of Mecklenburg Schwerin, T. G. Dale,
Esq. ; while amongst the general company were the Right
Hon. Lord Feversham, the Right Hon. Lord Berners, Lord
Doneraile, the Right Hon. Lord Wenlock, Hon. A. L. Melville,
Sir C. H. J. Anderson, Bart., Sir M. J. Cholmeley, Bart., Sir
H. Dymoke, Bart., Sir J. V. B. Johnstone, Bart., M.P., Sir J.
Villiers Shelley, Bart., M.P., W. Barrow, Esq, M.P., the
Rev. G. B. Blenkin (Boston), the Rev. W. L. Edwards (Sib-
sey),theRev. H. W. Sibthorp, the Right Hon. C. T. D'Eyn-
court, G. H. Packe, Esq., General Reeve, F. Cook, Esq.,
(Mayor of Boston), Rd. Milward, Esq., Braudreth Gibbs,
Esq., F. Hobbs, Esq , J. Hudson, Esq. (Castleacre), Jas. Hall,
Esq. (Scarboro'), A. Boucherett, Esq, Capt. Boncherett,
Capt. Smith, Capt. Sibthorp, Geo. Legard, Esq., the rev. T.
Livesey (Stourton Hall), M. P. Moore, Esq. (Sleaford), J.
Clarke, Esq. (Long Sutton), W. Skelion, Esq., S. Vessey.
Esq. (Halton), H. Foley, Esq., M.P., Chandos Wren Hoskyns,
Esq., Thos. Greetham, Esq. (Stanfield), the Rev. W. D.
Butterfield (Nettleham), Theodore Trotter, Esq. (Sheriff of
Lincoln), N. G. Barthropp, Esq., C. AUix, Esq., 11. Toynbee,
Esq., — Hopkins, Esq., Australia, — Mc Vicars, Esq., W,
Norton, Esq., W. Bartholomew, Esq., H. G. Skipworth,
Esq., M. Redman, Esq., J.Martin, Esq , W. B. Webster,
Esq. (Great Malvern), C. Clarke, Esq., Thes. P. Thirkell,
Esq., J. Cole, Esq., Professor Simonds, J. Hudson, Esq. (the
Secretary), and a number of noblemen and gentlemen, whose
names it was impossible to obtain. At 10 minutes past
5 o'clock. Col. Sibthorp, M.P. for the City of Lincoln,
entered the pavilion, when the company gave the gallant
Colonel a greeting which must have been highly gratifying to
him.

The dinner being concluded, thanks returned, and the usual
loyal toasts having been drunk with enthusiasm.

The CiiAiKMAN proposed " The health of the distinguished
foreigners who had honoured the Meeting by their Presence "
(cheers). It had ever been the object of the Society to culti-
vate habits of friendly intercourse with foreign States, which
might both give them information and receive it in return.
He believed that in doing so they were promoting the general
improvement of England and of the world, and in this object
he was proud to say that they had at various times been as-
sisted by various foreign Ministers. It was now universally
allowed that to promote not only the interests of agriculture/
but the great brotherhood of nations, ought to be the object
of every honest and patriotic diplomatist and statesman
(cheers). On the present occasion they were only honoured
with the attendance of one member of the diplomatic corps —
his Excellency the Peruvian Minister (cries of " Guano !" and
laughter) ; yet there were several distinguished foreigners
present, and especially M. Yvart and other French gentlemen,
who had been sent over by the Emperor (cheers) for the pur-
pose of obtaining some information as to the best mode of
conducting a society like the present, with the view, he be-
lieved, of forming a similar institution in France (cheers). He
need not say that to them and to all intelligent foreigners who
might honour the meeting with their presence^ the Society

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

115

gave a hearty welcome (cheers). With respect to the Minister
of Peru, he trusted that his Excellency, during his short stay
in Lincoln, would take an opportunity of examining the beau-
tiful green crops that were to be seen iu the county, one great
cause of which was the contribution of guano from hia Excel-
lency's country (cheers). If he might interpret the thoughts
of the farmers cf Lincoln at the present time, he believed it
would be comprised iu this sentiment, " more guauo," which
meant guano at a cheaper price (laughter and cheers). They
were all aware that t'nia product did not depend on the skill
or industry of man (laughter) ; it was the product of the
birds that rode on the waves of the Paciiie, and had their
homes on the rocky islets of Peru. If his Exce'lency could
remove political obstructions towards its easy attainment, and
if after that he should again visit Lincoln, he would find not a
more hearty welcome, but his eyes would be gladdened with
still more luxuriant crops ; and he v/ould behold the turnips
greener and more abundant than they were even at present
(cheers). The noble Earl concluded by proposing " The
Health of his Excellency the Peruviau Minister and the
Foreign Guests present."

His Excellency the Pekuvian Minister returned
thanks and apologized for the difficulty he had in speaking in
the English tongue. Through the rough crust of his poor
words, however, he had no doubt the company would perceive
the true and lojal feelings of his gratitude for their hospitality
(cheers). One of the first elements of agriculture was climate,
and truly the British nation was not much obliged to nature
in that respect, though he spoke on the point as a native of
the south ; but the English farmer, calling to his assistance
science, and, confident in the help of such an ally, was not
afraid to begin a struggle against nature, and i n that struggle
it could not be denied that he had conquered (Hear, hear). The
proofs and trophies of his conquest were in that wonderful
exhibition, which could only be witnessed in England, and
where the produce of distant countries and tropical climates
were grown in greater perfection than in their native regions.
This conquest over nature was, to be sure, the great boast of
the human intellect, and at the same time supplied the best
school of agriculture for other countries. He begged leave to
propose as a toast, " Prosperity to English Agriculture"
(cheers). With respect to what the noble chairman had said on
the subject of guano, he would assure them that, for his own
personal part, and as far as his duties to his own country, as a
loyal patriot, would allow him to realize the wishes of their
president, all that he could do he would (cheers).

Monsieur Yvart, the head of the deputation from the
Minibter of Agriculture in France, apologised for having to
address them iu Freuch. He said from the present happy
auspices, and the near relations in which the two countries
were placeJ, it was very probable that the time would soon
coaie when they could clearly understand each other's language.
He, with six other friends, had been sent by the Minister of
Agriculture to report upon the various implements and
gpleu'lid animals which had been exhibited at this great meet-
ing. From their first entrance into the city, they had met
with the greatest kindness and courtesy from the mayor of the
city, and indeed from every gentleman with whom they had
been brought in contact, whether connected in any way with
the society in the city of Lincoln, or neighbouring agricul-
turists on whose laud and farms they had been permitted to
have a vie* of matters which might be of service to them in
the object for which they were sent. He begged in the name
of the deputation to thank the Royal Agricultural Societ.y, for
tho reception they had given to them, and to assure the meet-

ing that if any members of the society should go to France, he
could promise them a not less hearty welcome (cheers).

The Earl of Carlisle, who was received with loud cheers,
said that he esteemed it a very high honour to have been re-
quested to propose the toast which had been set down oppo-
site his name, and which had been so emphatically recommended
to their notice by their friend behind the toastmaster (Laugh-
ter). He could not flatter himself that he bad earned any
title to such a distinction by any great addition to his stock of
agricultural knowledge which he had acquired during his
recent travels iu the eastern parts of Europe. On the con-
trary, though the inhabitants of those regions had shown that
they could exhibit very considerable prowess in military
matters, and though they occupied some of the finest and
most capable districts of the world, yet their farming processes
and implements did not exhibit much resemblance to those
which were to be seen in the show-yards of Lincoln, and he
believed had undergone very little change since the days of the
poet Homer (Cheers and laughter). But he felt that they
ought not to despond on that account, for it did happen to him
in a very extensive farm, being brought into cultivation by a
most enlightened and excellent English Consul, Mr. Calvert,
with his own eyes to see on the classic plains of Troy imple-
ments inscribed with the respective names of Garrett of Sax-
raundham, and Crosskill of Beverley (cheers). He believed
that this was the real solution of the Eastern question, of
which they heard so much, and that neither our fleets, how-
ever well manned, nor our armies, however valorous, nor our
diplomatists, however skilful, could do so much as the plough,
the spade, and the draining-tile to revive exhausted provinces,
and to recruit a failing population (cheers). Very gratifying
indeed was the spectacle presented iu the show-ground at
Lincoln, as compared with some of the scenes which he had
lately witnessed (Hear. hear). They all knew, and they had
been reminded that day, that they were at present in a state
of war, and true it was that the coast cf that very county of
Lincoln might have to bear the first brunt of a Russian inva-
sion. Indeed, he had been informed that the enemy had been
detected in the harbour of Grimsby (Laughter). However, he
trusted that the English and Freuch Baltic fleets would pre-
serve them from any great annoyance on that score, and he
could not say that they were now assembled at Lincoln with
anything like the appearance of a war congress (duers.
Those lat loamy flats and sunny slopes which surrounded
them need not fear being exposed to the angry tread of an
armed invader. The cattle which now filled the show —
the sleek short-horn, the brawny Hereford, and fleecy flocks,
ran no risk of falling the prey of hungry Cossacks or fierce
Bashi-Bazouks ; and though all knew the implements of
husbandry exhibited — the reaping-machines and clod-crushera
— couid cleave knotty obstacles and make sharp incisions,
their action was not followed by blood, and no tears bedewed
the furrow (cheers). He was right, then, in thinkii-g that
the sight in the field around them was a very pleasant one,
both in actual contrast with the spectacle exhibited elsewhere,
and as exhibiting a proof that though the nations might still
be occasionally plunged into strife and discord, yet the
tendency of the times was to foster and promote the arts and
pursuits that followed in the wake of peace, and extend the
triumphs of civilization (cheers). It would not become
him to debate on all the merits of the present exhibition. He
heard it most highly spoken of by the best informed judges,
and it would even require the ingenuity which was displayed
iu that new machine, the dynamometer, to measure the degree
of excellence to which it had reached (cheers and laughter).
There was one reason which made him glad that he was on

IIG

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

the pratent occasiou the orgau, however uaworthy, of wishing
success to the Koyal Agricultural Society. He had learnt
that the place appointed for its next year's meeting was the
city of Carlisle (cheers). Though in many respects the
county of Cumberland could not — as, indeed, what county
could ? he had almost said what corner of the globe could —
present equal attractions to the critical eye of the farmer with
the county of Lincoln, with its almost unbroken continuation
of rusthng corn and glistening green crops (cheers) — though
the county of Cumberland exhibits over a large proportion of
its surface only such unfarmable crops as heath and granite,
yet aa it had some specialties in its scenery, there might be
some also in its modes of cultivation not wholly undeserving
of notice, and its agriculturists might have something to show
as well as much to learn (cheers). At all events, of one thing
he could assure them— that the Royal Agricultural Society
could nowhere have received a more hearty warmth of welcome
than he was persuaded would greet it along the whole line of
the northern border, and within the walls of merry Carlisle
(cheers). He had now only to add his hope that in whatever
track the future progress of the Royal Agricultural Society
might conduct it over the breadth of fair and prosperous
England, it might in every county impart and receive fresh
impulses towards the improvement and perfection of that
noble science of agriculture, wliich perhaps was the most
ancient and indispensable of all the pursuits that ministered
to the welfare and insured the continuance of our race (cheers).
Hoping that they would receive the toast as he should wish,
he begged leave to propose " The Royal Agricultural Society
of England" (loud cheers).

The Earl of Yarborough next rose, and was received
with loud applause. He said the council of the Royal Agri-
cultural Society of England had requested that he would, on
this occasion, propose the health of the president for this
year (cheers). He had, therefore, undertaken that duty, and
he could only say that he was sure he expressed the feel-
ings of all present when he said they were exceedingly sorry
that he (the president) had not been able to come to this
meeting, wlien he believed and felt justified in saying that he
would have had peculiar gratification in visiting a county the
merits of which, in a farming point of view, he had himself
been the special means of making known to the rest of Eng-
land (cheers). He felt that his friend Mr. Pusey had been
the means of letting the farmers of England know that, in his
opinion, having visited this county, it presented less waste
ground than any other of a similar size ; and, to the honour
of the tenant farmers of Lincolnshire, he had stated in his
report, which appeared in the Journal of the Royal Agricul-
tural Society, that not only were there to be found here one or
two farms well managed, but large districts which displayed
the superior cuUivatiou which exists in this county (applause).
They in Lincolnshire naturally felt proud of this testimony ;
and, as he was speaking in an assembly of farmers from all
parts of England, he thought he might say, on the part of the
farmers of Lincolnshire, that he hoped they (the farmers of
England), on this their visit to the county, would avail
themselves of the opportunity of judging whether the praise
bestowed upon the county by Mr. Pusey had been well given,
and was fully justified (Hear, hear). He felt exceedingly glad,
as no doubt all the farmers of the county did, that this meeting
of the Royal Agricultural Society had been held at Lincoln ;
and his only regret, and their only regret, would be that Mr.
Pusey had been unable to come among them. It was almost
needless for him to remind the members of this Society that
that gentleman was one of its earliest friends, and that they
owed to him a very deep debt of gratitude for the success

which had attended it ; because, important aa these meetings
are, he thought they could not over-rate the importance of the
Society's Journal, of which, from its commencement, Mr.
Pusey had acted as honorary editor, the publication of which
had been under his superintendence, and but for which, he
felt quite sure, there would not have been that general im-
provement in farming which had become so perceptible through-
out England since the formation of this Society. The Journal
had been the means of diffusing successful experiments, and of
encouraging persons in carrying them out ; and, if the So-
ciety's operations had been confined merely to the holding of
its annual meetings, unassisted by the care and attention be-
stowed upon the Journal by Mr. Pusey, he believed the
Society would not have met with the success which had so
satisfactorily marked its progress (applause). He hoped that
Mr. Pusey would be able to attend the next meeting, at Car-
lisle, when he was sure he would be received in such a manner
as would show him that the feeling of regret which he had
expressed, on the part of the farmers of Lincolnshire, in this
instance, was fully shared in by the farmers of England ; for
it ought not to be forgotten that the Royal Agricultural So-
ciety was first originated by one of the most distinguished men
in this county, the late Mr. Handley, and that Mr. Pusey was
introduced by him into this county, the farmers of which there-
fore felt, perhaps, more attached to that gentleman than they
might otherwise have done (applause). " The President of the
Society, Mr. Pusey" (three times three cheers, and one cheer
more).

The Noble Chairman said he found it was his duty, as
their president on this occasion, to acknowledge the toast
which they had just drunk; and he assured them that, in
doing so, he felt more than he did at first how very unequal
he was to occupy the place of his honourable friend. He was
almost tempted to say — in alluding to Mr. Pusey's position in
connection with the Society, and in reference to the wise, and
scientific, and practical remarks that would have fallen from
him on this occasion— he was almost tempted to say, " If I
were Brutus, and Br\itus were Antony" (laughter) ; but he
felt that his hon. friend might be angry with him for suppo-
sing either of him or of himself that they were distingnished
orators, still more that they were capable of saying anything
that was likely to stir up their hearts to mutiny (Hear, and
laughter). But he would say this, and he could say it honestly,
that if Mr. Pusey had been present, they would have heard
from him the result of much research, of much scientific acqui-
sition, of much supervision of practical experiments; and,
therefore, as he was addressing a body of British farmers, he
might say with truth that there was scarcely one among them
who deserved more of their attention, as well as more of their
gratitude, for the services he had performed towards the cause
of agriculture, than Mr. Pusey (applause). As it was his
business to respond to the toast, it was not his province to
praise his honourable friend ; but he could, and did, join with
them most heartily in wishing good health to Mr. Pusey, and
that his life might be long spared for the advancement and the
benefit of this great society (cheers).

The Earl of Harrowby, in rising to propose the toast of
"Agriculture,Manufactures, and Commerce," said: Agriculture,
manufactures, and commerce were all sisters of one family ; and,
like the sisters of families.a littledisagreement occurred amongst
them at one time. Happily that time had gone by, and they
were now united together without any feelings of jealousy or
distinction. What could agriculture do without commerce, or
commerce without agriculture ? Thirty years ago they would
have required a text to prove it, but it was not so now. Why
the agriculturist was a manufacturer of a most important cha-

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

11:

racter; he manufactured beef aud biead for us to eat (cheers).
How much commerce had to do with it, the Peruvian Minister
had told them. They all thrived together, and were dependent
on each other — those who provided and those who consumed.
To secure prosperity, agriculture, commerce, and manufactures
must go hand in hand; for it was obvious to every one that
there could be no'prosperity for agriculture unless they had a
large consuming population (cheers). He was confident they
would heartily drink the toast of " Agriculture, Manufactures,
and Commerce" (loud cheers).

Sir John V. B. Johnstone, Bart., M.P., said, that in
simple obedience to the orders of the Council, he rose to pro-
pose the toast set opposite to his name, namely, " The Mayor
and Corporation of Lincoln" (loud cheers). However great
the exertions of the Council and Members of the Royal Agri-
cultural Society might be, and however well seconded they
might be by their agricultural friends, still they would fall far
short of securing those glorious results which they had so often
witnessed, if it were not for the cordial co-operation which they
always met with from the municipal authorities of the different
places where the Society held its annual meetings (Hear).
The city of Lincoln presented many claims to a visit from the
Society besides those of a strictly agricultural nature. In the
centre of a rich agricultural county stood a city dating from
the Conquest, with a magnificent cathedral placed on a hill,
which presented peculiar charms to the eye of the agriculturist.
The cultivation of the land surrounding presented an example
for every other county in England. On all previous occasions
they had been well received by the municipal authorities, but
never with a more hearty welcome than at the present show
(cheers). The exertions of the Mayor and Corporation of Lin-
coln had been unceasing to render every assistance in their
power to the Society and its officers. They had never met
with a Mayor who united all the essential qualities requisite
for affording help to them, to such a degree as they had found
them in the Mayor of Lincoln (cheers). He heartily congra-
tulated the Society that they had met with such a gentleman,
and he congratulated the citizens of Lincoln on having made
choice of such a Mayor. Not only had he rendered the Society
every facility, but he had opened his purse strings to an extent
which had hardly ever been known before (cheers). The
Society had a deal to undertake, and therefore had to impose
on the towns where their annual meetings were held, what
might sometimes be thought hard terms. They were compelled
to do this from their poverty. To the Mayor of Lincoln they
were peculiarly indebted, inasmuch as he had given special
prizes for competition at the present show amounting to lOOl.
Two of the prizes offered were for objects characteristic of the
excellence for which the county of Lincoln is noted — horses for
hunting purposes, and improved Lincoln sheep. Since the
time that he (Sir J. V. Johnstone, M.P.) hunted in the county
of Lincoln twenty years ago, the plough and the harrow had
made great ha^oc, and the Mayor had given a prize for likely
horses. He gave prizes also for sheep; and the local com-
mittee, desirous of having good wool, offered prizes for the best
fleeces — a combination most suitable. He should content
himself with begging them all to join him in drinking with the
greatest cordiality the healths of the Mayor and Corporation
of Lincoln, and many thanks to them for their united endea-
vours to facilitate the Society in their arduous undertaking
(loud cheers).

The Mayor op Lincoln (J. T. Tweed) said : I rise to
respond to your cordial reception of the health you have just
drunk, and on behalf of myself and the corporation, I beg to
tender you my sincere thanks. It is with feelings of pleasure
that I thank you for that genuine burst of feeling, which will

ever ring in my recollect iou, aud tend to rivet those ties of
friendship which have commenced under such auspicious cir-
cumstances (cheers). You do not know, nor can you imagine,
the swollen feelings of pride which I have experienced at the
result of this great meeting, pregnant with events which I
venture to say must ever live in the joyous memory of eveiy
tiller of the soil within this county, to find that its agricultu-
ral position and its productions have vied with and equalled
every other (loud cheers). The superbly cultivated heaths,
wolds, and feus of the count}', and the enterprise, energy, and
industry displayed in their reclamation and culture, afford the
most brilliant and striking proofs of the triumphs of science
over ignorance, energy and intellectual power over supiueness
and lethargy, and a liberal expenditure of capital over heartless
neglect and covetous frugality. This society was conceived
aud born for the purpose of consolidating and developing great
principles, and of accomplishing great achievements in practice.
It has reared its mighty and stupendous head upon the ruins
of ignorance, inertness, unskilful and bigoted practices, and
barbarous customs. Its trophies can nowhere be more appro-
priately exhibited aud displayed than, when scanning the
range of this county, you behold every inch of its varied soil
smiling in all the luxuriance of productive nature, bidding
defiance to that element which, by the aid of science, has been
chained within its narrow limits, and left to perform its
allotted functions of fertilizing and moistening the arid soil,
instead of breeding pestilence and corruption to the beast,
death and destruction to vegetation (loud cheers). Never did
the Corporation of Lincoln and its inhabitants greet with such
signal satisfaction and pleasure the congregation of so nume-
rous, noble, and conspicuous a company as upon the present
memorable occasion. If the exhibition has afforded that
amount of gratification which from its merit it was calculated
to do, we need not fear that it will increase in popular estima-
tion aud esteem, and be as much admired and appreciated by
our visitors as it has been welcomed by us (cheers). Mention
has been made by the worthy proposer of the toast of my
having added to the list of prizes on this occasion. I should,
indeed, have been wanting in that spirit which ought to
characterize an officer holding my position, if I did not do my
utmost to promote the interest and welfare of those who are
my neighbours and friends, especially as this city is the
county town, and representative of one of the largest and
most flourishing, as well as the best cultivated districts in the
world. The Mayor sat down amidst loud and long-continued
cheering.

The noble Chairman here called upon

Mr. Brandreth Gibbs to read the judges' awards of
Prizes, which that gentleman did, in a good clear tone, occa-
sionally interrupted by a cheer for some fortunate exhibitor or
county man.

Mr. Thompson, of Kirby Hall, gave the "Labouring
Classes." He had never seen a better show, or one more
worthy of the county in which it was held, than that exhibited
to-day. It was a proof of the wisdom of the farmers, and of
their judicious employment of capital aud skill. But did it
not also speak of the energy and industry of the working
classes? (cheers). In noticing the crops as he journeyed from
Peterborough to Lincoln that day, he thought the crops were
perhaps too uniformly beautiful. Their appearance told him
the farmers of Lincolnshire had capital and that their labourers
had skill. It would not be thus if instead of having intelligent
labourers they had to drive ignorant serfs. The conquests
over the fen and bog were accomplished through the labouring
classes, and by their aid we were enabled to repel the Russian
aggressor of freedom through the willing thousands found in

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our armies, It would be presumption in him to dictate as to
how farmers should treat their labourers, but the triumph
which the latter achieved was aufScient to show that employer
and employed were on the best terms. He believed the se-
cret of this happy issue was, that the Lincolnshire farmers
treated their labourers with justice and set them a good
example (loud cheers). He gave in all sincerity the " Labour-
ing Classes."

Sir John V. Shelley, Bart., M.P., said a duty had de-
volved upon him, which, until a very short time since, he hoped
would have been fulfilled by Lord Hardwicke ; but as he had
not appeared, he (Sir John) had to perform the duty the
council had allotted to Lord Hardwicke. If that nobleman
had been present he would have addressed them in his usual
eloqueut manner; while he (Sir J. V. Shelley) should be ex-
tremely brief, and confine his remarks strictly to the toast he
had the honour to propose — "the Agricultural Societies
throughout the World" (cheers). There was an elderly society
—an elderly sister, he should say — the Highland Society,
for which the Royal Agricultural Society felt much sisterly
affection. All other societies of a similar description they
regarded with parental feelings, as children of their own, be-
lieving that they conferred inestimable benefits to the world at
large (cheers). At their meetings, landlord and tenant met,
and mixed their ideas together, and thus their experience was
made available for the benefit of the community. They were
now beginning to see the advantages of such societies as these.
From the French deputations they had heard sentiments which
must find an echo in every breast. It showed that agricul-
tural societies were likely, at no distant day, to extend
throughout the world. Such intercourse as this is more likely
to produce peace and good-will amongst men, and all nations
of the earth, than all the armies of the world, or all the pro-
tocols and wisdom of statesmen (cheers).

The Earl of Mansfield rose to reply in behalf of the
Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland, lie said that
the difficulty which he experienced in addressing so numerous
and iiifluential an assembly as that which he saw before him,
was much enhanced by his having to reply to a toast of so large
dimensions. Had he been a commercial man, he should have
said, " This is a large order " — (a laugh) — for he had not only
to anssver for the society with which he was himself connected,
but for all agricultural societies throughout the world. That
difficulty had, however, to some extent, been removed by Sir
J. V. Shelley, because he had stated that the toast extended
to the Highland Society rather than to others of which they
had not so minute a knowledge. Sir John had also informed
them that the Highland Society was the parent of that (the
Eoyal English) Society, and the other societies had sprung
from that. Here, then, he felt sufficiently confident in himself
to render them an acknowledgment of his thanks — there as
representing before them that society ^hich they had at first
imitated, but now far excelled; because his country (Scotland)
was a small country in comparison with theirs, and because
they (the Scotch) had great difficulties to contend with and to
overcome. They, in England, had a more favourable climate,
were more fertile in resources, and possessed the capability of
effecting that which, after almost a century of exertion, they
had not been able to accomplish in Scotland. But if these had
been great advantages to them in England, they had not
been little to the members of the society in Scotland ; for
societies in a state of prosperity always wanted a little brush-
ing up ; and if their exertions had been great, still they had
not been so great as they might have beeu, and the success of
the Royal Agricultural Improvement Society in Ireland, as
well as that of this society, had furnished them in Scotland

with fresh stimulant, and they were now assuming a different
aspect. In a few days they would have a show at Berwick-
upou-Tweed. He did not know whether they would have a
room as large as that pavilion for their accommodation — but
he would at least give them all an invitation (cheers and
laughter). And if they should not have room enough for them
all, their hearts were slill open to receive them (loud cheers).
He had heard much at the begiumng of the evening of the
merits of a short speech, and would therefore not detain them
any longer than by expressing his warm acknowledgments.
(The noble Lord sat down amidst much applause.)

The Hon. Alexander Leslie Melville said, that a
discussion occurred in one of Sir Walter Scott's novels, he
thought the "Fair Maid of Perth," as to which was the
finest county in Scotland, each of the disputants of course
maintaining that was his own, though it was conceded that
after going over all the others, Perth was certainly the second.
That evening he might claim for Lincoln that it was in like
manner the second agricultural county of England. If so,
let them put to themselves the question. Why was it that
Lincoln stood so pre-eminent in agriculture ? The first poiiit
to which he must attribute this was, that there was found in
the county so great a variety of soils ; they had their fen
land, their wold land, and their heath land. They were at
present on the border of one ; they were, moreover, in the
midst of the heath ; and on going on Friday to the station of
the Great Northern Railway at Stixwold, they would there
see the engiiie which had beeu prepared to exhibit the ope-
rations connected with their drainage, and show how they
pumped out the water. Although he had been told that they
might be carried into other districts, and shown an agricul-
ture superior to their own ; althousb, if they were to take
Scotland as an example, they might not be able to go three
miles out of town, and find themselves in a wrong direction ;
although in other countries, perhaps, they might see better
herds of cattle; although Yorkshire might try what it could
to heat them in horses ; let them put all together the tillage,
the cattle, sheep, and the horses — and there they would find
the true secret of the pre-eminence of Lincolnshire. Their
real profit lay in the mixture of these different classes of
agriculture ; the amalgamation of one thing with another
brought out the true merits of each individual part. An old
friend of his, and one of the best experimentalists of Great
Britain, the late Mr. Fleming, of Barrocban, when he had said
to him, "Give me in a nut-shell what you have learned in the
course of your scientific investigations," had said to him in reply,
" Mix your manure — do not trust to your guano, or to your
farm-yard manure, exclusively — but put small portions of
each together — admixture is the thing, I say." Much as they
had gratified themselves at the present meeting, the greatest
compliment which, as Chairman of the Local Committee, he
had heard paid them was, when he had met a gentleman who
said that yesterday he had come down to see the show, and
had yesterday driven along the heath land, and returned,
saying that he had seen quite enough to repay him without
once entering the show-yard. He would entreat them not to
leave the district without seeing the state of the surrounding
cultivation. A walk up the hill enabled them to see enough.
In this county, when they got hold of a slovenly fellow, they
said to him, " look over the hedge" (they did not raise their
hedges very high), " see what your neighbour is doing, and
learn of him." The toast which he had to propose related to
the name of a gentleman known and respected for years in
the district, and who was president-elect for the future year ;
and he had the greatest pleasure in proposing "The Health
of Mr. Miles, M.P., their president-elect." (All the honours).

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119

Mr. Miles, M.P., who officiated as Vice-Chairman, was re-
ceived with great applause, thanked thetn very much for the
honour they had done him. It was true he had seen Lincoln-
shire in different times. Other counties could boast of having
a century back adopted advanced cultivation — but Liucolnshire
dated its agricultural improvement but 50 or 60 years back.
He himaelf recollected 20 or 30 years ago seeiog the first cargo
of bones ever landed at Hull, and the Custom House officers
not knowing what duty to charge, a deputation waited upon
the Chancellor of the Exchequer for the purpose of showing
how necessary it was that access should be afforded to these
substances in such manner as would contribute to the improve-
ment of agriculture and commerce throughout the world, and
suggested that no duty should be imposed; and in point of
fact no duty was imposed (cheers). What he had formerly
known as rabbit-warrens he now saw waving with crops of
corn, adorning the land (cheers). What had that been owing
to ? To nothing but the conduct both of tenants and land-
lords throughout Lincolnshire. The tenants knew the men
they had to deal with as landlords, and the landlords knew
their tenants (cheers). They had been told that the Scotch
society had been a parent to them ; but he would succumb to
no county in England (cheers), and would say to the visitors
of that show that, as friends, they were happy to meet them,
asking them to look at our cultivation and say whether it was
not better than their own (cheers). He differed in so far from
his hon. friend who bad preceded him, and begged to state that,
as his own conviction, as well as that of their president, who
unfortunately was not amongst them, that Lincolnshire bore
away the palm not only over every county in England, but of
Scotland also, if he might so state it (loud cheers and laughter).
He returned bis thanks to the council of the Society for the
honour they had done him by appointing him next year to
take the station of president in the county described by the
noble Earl (Carlisle), where agriculture was not so successful,
where the bracken stdl lingered on the hills, but where they
should have beautiful scenery, much to admire, and, he felt
convinced, a hearty welcome. Then let him entreat them, as
president elect, to visit them at their meeting next year, and
to associate with their brother farmers of that district, and in
that spirit which prevails when farmer and farmer meet. He
congratulated them as having been for many years a work-
ing member of the Society on the exhibition of the day ;
he had never seen a finer exhibition of working implements.
He had not yet seen the other yard, but what he had heard
read by Mr. Brandretb Gibbs from the table regarding the
competitors and the classes of animals exhibited, assured
him sufficiently that the cattle-show was not less worthy
of commendation than the implements. The science of
agriculture had been progressing favourably year by year
betwixt 1850 and 1853. The best steam-engine that
could be produced for agricultural purposes in 1850 was con-
sidered to consume 7-50 odd decimals of coke per hour, but
this had been reduced year after year until it was now only
4.35. He also directed particular attention to the instrument
which had on this occasion been so well applied in measuring
the forces exerted by the engines, and he was very proud to
say that, by the ability and great energy of his friend, Mr.
Amos, they had at last effected what had been long desired,
in obtaining a dynamometer, and in at last being enabled to
measure the effective force of implements ; whilst in a few
years he had no doubt they should find themselves possessed
of a dynamometer which would equally well measure traction.
If so, they would have only a simple arithmetical sum to do,
and implements would be adjudged, not by the opinions of
members, but by means of a mechanical invention, which

could not err. Alluding to the foreigners of distinction whom
he saw both on the right and left of the chair, Mr. Miles then
said he could not but call to mind, that in the last number of
the Society's Journal, which had just appeared, a paper by a
distinguished botanist had found a place, in which the author
had shown that by cultivating for six or seven years a weed
common in the South of France and on the shores of the
Mediterranean, they might be able by such cultivation to pro-
duce wheat. He alluded to the paper of M. Barbier on
chylops oraca. He trusted that the communications of this
gentleman to the Society's Journal would be long continued;
and that we, in England, would be found always ready and
willing to give every facility to foreign gentlemen, and
foreigners equally willing to contribute to us whatever they
knew (apfilause). Whatever might be the state of agricul-
tural science in the county, there was undoubtedly much for
the farmers still to know ; and he was proud to think that
the farmers were becoming a reading community, not only
prepared to work with their hands but with their heads.
Before sitting down he would beg leave to propose the health
of the nobleman who had done them the honour of filling the
chair during their present meeting (great applause). That
nobleman had generally been a contributor of stock to the
meeting. He did not know whether that was the case in the
present instance or not, for he had hoped to have been enabled
to congratulate him as one of the successful competitors.
Having the honour of Lord Chichester's acquaintance, he was
certain they would only require his name to be given to insure
his health being drunk with all those plaudits which he felt
sure the ability he had shown to-day entitled him. (The
toast was drunk with great applause.)

The noble Chairman returned thanks, and said that he
felt obliged for the kind manner in nhich his health had been
drunk, as well as for the manner in which his honouraWe friend
had so kindly, but so much beyond his merits, alluded to the ser-
vices he had rendered the society. He felt it quite unnecessary
to say more respecting the past; but he might allude, as having
been an original member of the society, and as having formed
sanguine expectations both of its usefulness and success, to the
fact that his opinion was not altered, and he felt that the san-
guine expectations of the first founders of the institution had
already been more than realised. He could assure them that,
however little help he might be able to give, he should take care
to promote every object they had in view, and also endeavour to
give everysupport in his power to the society. He should be an
exhibiter of stock whenever he was able to send any, or willingly
adopt any other means of being useful, whether as a member of
their council or of the society, or in carrying out their great and
various objects (applause).

Mr. Charles Wren Hoskyns, amidst considerable
signs of impatience, said he had the misfortune to appear before
the meeting after every other topic, either for a short or deficient
speech, had been exhausted, and therefore he would only throw
himself on their energy in endeavouring to do justice to a sub-
ject which far exceeded his powers, or those of any man to do it
justice ; yet he was thankful to say that it came home to the
cherished feelings of their hearts and minds, and he would
therefore throw himself into it, as this would enable him not only
to say what he wished to say, but while he did so to convey the
thanks of the society to the directors of those splendid lines of
railway wliich had been the primum mobile of their assembling
there, and without which they could not have been there at all.
By a singular chance or accident (although all chances of acci-
dent were singular) the railway system, and the whole liistory of
their society, had been coeval, and had gone on supporting and
assisting one another. They would go on enlarging and iis^i>ting
each other until he hardly knew what they should do with the
superincumbent weight. The whole system of railways would
advance to such an extent that he himself would require to put the
high pressure on, even in making an ineffectual attempt to speak

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on the subject. S}'miitoius of impatience having been frequently
manifested, being here renewed, Mr. Hoslsyns feared he was tres-
passing upon old ground ; havin? already written a book on this
subject, he was perhaps only repeating many things which he had
already expressed. In regard to the beautiful little dynamome-
ter alluded to by Mr. Miles, he might mention that the inventor,
accustomed to commercial activity in travelling, had left behind
him the parcel to be taken care of, and that it had been lost in
coming to the show, and the perseverance and courtesy of the
railway ofEcial, who had recovered it, had therefore added mate-
rially to the comfort and advantage of the judges, of the re-
porters of the society, and of all others interested in the trials —
so much so, that their task could hardly be called work at all.
In short, the Dynamometer had constituted the subject of in-
terest and attention from early till late, " from morn till dewy
eve" (murmurs of impatience), the judges of the trial yard
having employed it in testing sixty of the most beautiful engines
that could have been manufactured. He concluded by proposing
"The Railway Companies, and thanks to them for their co-
operation in promoting the objects of the society."

As the meeting was about to separate, and after the noble Chair-
man had vacated his chair.

Col. SiBTHORPE, M.P. for the city, rose, and explained the
cause of his late arrival, which was that he had been to London
in order that he might have his regiment of militia embodied.
He concluded, to the great amusement of every one present, by
a melo-dramatic expression of his wish that tiie Russians would
only land on the coast of Lincolnshire, in order that the corps
(the trumpeter of which aided Mr. Kiggs, the toastraaster, by
sounding the bugle calls behind the chair) might have an oppor-
tunity of cutting them to pieces.

CONSECUTIVE ANALYSIS OF
THE STOCK.

We have endeavoured to make this report as con-
cise as possible, consistent with the requirements of so
splendid an exhibition. Many animals of great merit we
are compelled to pass unnoticed, and but slightly to
allude to some of surpassing excellence. We have neither
time nor space for a comparative analysis of every ani-
mal, nor do we think any really useful purpose would
be attained by it. We did last year, in one or two
supplements and otherwise, give a more extended report
than usual ; but the time it took, and the few words that
could be used to keep within any reasonable limit in the
notice given to each animal, necessarily made the anal} sis
incomplete. We shall this year take them in order, as
they appear upon the prize sheet — i, e., cattle, horses,
sheep, and pigs.

CATTLE.

SHORTHORNS.

This is a somewhat singular designation, and a total
stranger to the breed is to be found noticing any pecu-
liarity about the horn. From whence this most fashion-
able and most valuable breed derived its name, we know
not ; but its great improvement, if not creation, dates
from the bull " Hubback," on the one side, and the
Teeswater, Holderness, Lincoln, and other like coarse
breeds, on the other. Hubback was calved in 1777, and
was bought by the Messrs. CoUings, out of a bye-lane ;
from him descended Favourite (the sire of "The Dur-
ham Ox"), Comet, and other bulls, &c. It was from
this stock that the breed of cattle known as " The Im-
proved Shorthorns" was established. We believe that
jt now " carries the palm." No breed has attained like

celebrity, and this is proved by some of the late sales ;
none so early reach a ripe state of maturity, and but few
exhibit better milking qualities. The nobility of their
appearance is superior to that of any other breed, and
the prices realized by some of the most popular herds
and best bloods exceed belief — the celebrated Duchess
tribe, for instance : nine animals from this tribe were
sold at the Tortworth (Earl Ducie's) sale for 4,160 gs.,
or 462 gs. each. The county of Lincoln has been long
celebrated for its breed of shorthorns ; we were there-
fore prepared to witness a splendid collection of animals,
and the result has fully answered our anticipations. The
show was a first-rate one as a whole, but to take indivi-
dual specimens of this breed we have occasionally seen
them surpassed. The classes of cows and heifers we
think were never better filled up, and many first-class
animals are amongst them. We make honourable men-
tion of these classes first, because we think they have
the first claim. The classes of bulls, good as they are,
do not equal the cow and heifer classes. We do most
heartily commend them as a whole, but what we looked
for was one or two specimens of still greater merit than
are to be found ; some " Duke of Northumberland,"
or one equally surpassing his fellows. We know how
great is the difficulty to commend one without implying
some slight censure upon another ; this is not what we
mean to do ; but having our own prepossessions as to
form and feature, we choose to make our own selections.
We begin with No. 3 in catalogue.

Class 1. — Bulls calved previously to the Istof July, 1852,
and not exceeding 4 years old.

3 William Sanday, of Holme Pierrepont, near Nottingham,
and Henry Smith, of The Grove, Cropwell Butler, near
Bingham, " Vatican," roan, 3 years 2 months 2 weeks and
5 days, bred by the late Earl Ducie, of Tortworth Court ;
sire Usurer, dam Virginia, sire of dam Petrarch. (First
prize of £40.) — This is a finely formed animal, of great
merit ; beautiful chine and chest, with level back and good
hips, his head full, good, and handsome, except a little
prominence above the eye, nice neck, ribs not sufficiently
springing, leaving the form less cylindrical than we like,
beautiful level sides, good loin, hips wide, thighs long and
full, twist full, flank and ripping parts not quite full
enough in proportion, nor is he quite so noble in appear-
ance as some of our first-class bulls of former years.

5 Richard Booth, of Warlaby, near Northallerton, " Windsor,"
white, with red at end of the ears, 2 years and 9 months,
bred by exhibiter ; sire Crown Prince, dam Plum Blossom,
sire of dam Buckingham. (Second prize of £20.) — This
is a beautiful animal, very cylindrical in form, plenty of
good lean flesh, fine appearance, head and muzzle small,
good horns and well set, neck thin and short, chest very
deep, with full, well thrown out shoulders, beautiful level
wide chine and back, ribs well springhig, forming a fine
cylindrical shape throughout, hips rather too close, but
good rump, thighs and flank very superior, twist good,
tail fine and well set, legs rather short and fine ; a very
good animal.

12 William Fletcher, of Radmanthwaite, neat Mansfield,
" Champion," roan, 2 years 3 months and 3 weeks old,
bred by exhibiter ; sire Lord of Brawith, dam Gaudy, sire
of dam Prince Albert. — Was highly commended. His
bone is thin, and general frame acceptable.

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121

13 Messrs. Edward and Cbarles Marfleet, of Bassiogham, uear
Newark, " Trajan," roan, 3 years and 7 months, bred by
exhibitera : sire Trajau, dam Princess, sire of dam Prince.
—This is a bull possessing great substance and many very
good points, but, as we think, but little beauty, and his
general character borders upon a coarse animal ; such,
however, is the quantity of lean flesh denoted, that we
think him worthy of notice here.
This class is very ably sustained, notwithstanding the
absence of any animal of really surpassing merit ; the
general character was so good that we cannot do other-
wise than give it our best commendation.

Class II. — Bulls calved since the 1st of July, 1852, and
more thau 1 year old.

23 John Kirkham, of Hagnaby, near Spilsby, "Marmion,"

red, 1 year 3 months, and 3 days, bred by exhibiter ; sire
Usurer (9763), dam Music, sire of dam Shamrock (7488).
— A very compact, prettily formed animal.

24 John Kirkham, of Hagnaby, near Spilsby, " Albion," roan,

1 year 5 months and 19 days, bred by exhibiter; sire
Usurer (9763), dam Alice Hawthorn, sire of dam Neptune
(7273). — Similar description of animal to No. 23 ; excel-
lent chest and good girth.

34 Messrs. E. and C. Marfleet, of Bassingham, near Newark,
" Baronet," roan, 1 year and 2 months, bred by exhibiters ;
sire Son of Baronet, dam Beeswing, sire of dam Waveiley.
: — Was highly commended, and very deservedly.

86 William Odhng, of Baslingthorpe, near Market Kasen,
" Comet," roan, 1 year and 6 months, bred by exhibiter ;
sire Sir No Name, dam Rosemary, sire of dam Prince.
(First prize of £25.) — This is well formed, and of good
substance, but stands rather too low : head rather ordi-
nary, horns fine and pointing forward, neck too thin and
not quite right adjoining shoulder, back and chine very
even, hips good and standing out well, ribs fairly spring-
ing, with good chest, and flank rather thin, but good
thighs, tail rather high, and tuts bare; beautiful colour.

39 Charles Towneley, of Towneley Park, near Burnley, " Ho-
garth," red, 1 year and 8 mouths, bred by exhibiter ; sire
Harbinger (10297), dam Rosa, sire of dam Baron of
Eavensworth. (Second prize of £15.) — This is a beauti-
fully formed good animal, very pleasant head and horns,
full neck, full good chine and back, but not quite level,
hips rather short and too narrow, twist too light, thighs
long, but rather thin, flanks and lower parts all good, tail
rather high, tuts broad and short, ribs nicely springing,
and deeply, but not quite cylindrically formed ; a deep
good red colour.

Class III. — Bull Calves above 6 and under 12 months old.

44 Charles Towneley, of Towneley Park, near Burnley, " Mas-
ter Butterfly," rich roan, 11 months, bred by exhibiter;
sire Frederick (11489), dam Butterfly, sire of dam Jeweller
(10354). (Prize of £10). — This has a good and propor-
tionate frame ; fine horn, fine neck, chine rather narrow,
even back, hips fair, tuts good, twist good and fuU, and
colour good.

47 John Kirkham, of Hagnaby, near Spilsby, " Sultan," red
and white, 10 months and 1 day, bred by exhibiter; sire
Usurer (9763), dam Sarah, sire of dam Shamrock (7488).
— This is a very finely proportioned young bull.

50 William Sanday, of Holme Pierrepont, near Nottingham,
" The Pope," roan, 11 months, bred by exhibiter; sire
Vatican (12260), dam Foggathorpe 4th, sire of dam Duke
of Northumberland. — This is a good young animal, de-
Dotin; many escelleuces.

This class was so well contested, that it would appear
invidious to select maay animals for observation and
remark.

Class IV. — Cows in milk or in calf.

57 Richard Stratton, of Broad Hintou, near Swindon, " 3rd
Duchess of Gloucester," roan, 3 years and 3 months, in
milk, bred by exhibiter ; sire Red Duke, dam Elegance,
sire of dam Lottery ; and 53, " Matchless the 2nd," roan,
3 years and 5 months, in milk, bred by exhibiter; sire
Red Duke, dam Old Mossrose, sire of dam Phosnix.—
These are two exceedingly good and well matched cows,
having every recommendation of colour and beauty, and
were most properly highly commended by the judges.

63 John Kirkham, of Hagnaby, near Spilsby, " Coronation,"

white, 4 years and 9 months, in milk and in calf, bred by
exhibiter ; sire Lord George (10439), dam Carnation, sire
of dam Post Captain (4738). — This is a very good cow,
with a very large hind quarter ; her neck is thin, showing
a somewhat abrupt shoulder ; she is a large fine made
cow in every other respect ; she is long in frame, and hipa
and tuts surprisingly large. (Commended).

64 W. B. Wiugate, of Hareby, near Spilsby, " Trim," light

roan, 8 years and 9 months, in milk, bred by exhibiter.—
Broad hips and good chine ; neck rather shght in pro-
portion.

65 Thomas Robinson, of Burton on Trent, " Buttercup," roan,

6 years and 6 months, in milk, bred by E. Lakin, of
Powyke, near Worcester; sire 2nd Duke of Lancaster
(5951), daraBanksia, sire of dam Crichton (3516). — Is a
large, good cow ; her neck is thin, but her chine is very
wide ; her chest and breast extraordinary. (Commended).

66 Thomas Robinson, of Burton on Trent, " Vapour," roan, 6

years and 4 months, iu calf, bred by Sir Charles Tempest,
of B rough ton Hall, nearSkiptou; sire Tom of Lincoln
(8714), dam Lady Valentine, sire of dam Rockingham
(2550) — This is a good animal, with exceedingly broad
hips, almost amounting to a deformity.

70 John Booth, of Killerby, near Catterick, " Venus Victrix,"

roau, 3 years and 10 months, in milk, bred by exhibiter ;
sire Vanguard, dam Bloom, sire of dam Buckingham
(second prize of £10). — A good, well formed animal;
muzzle too dark, heavy and wide breast, thighs good ; her
whole frame exceedingly good.

71 William Fletchsr, of Radmanthwaite, near Mansfield,

" Jenny Lind," roan, 5 years 2 months and 1 week, in
milk, bred by exhibiter ; dam Lily, sire of dam Fitzwalter.
— A very good cow, well formed and large frame. (Com-
mended).

72 William Torr, of Aylesby Manor, near Grimsby, " Glisten,"

roan, 4 years and 6 months, in milk, bred by exhibiter ;
sire Vanguard (10994), dam Gleam, sire of dam Baron
Warlaby (7813) : and 73, " The Flower," roau, 6 years
and 7 months, in milk, bred by exhibiter ; sire Baron
Warlaby (7813), dam Flower Girl, sire of dam Londesboro
or Lord A. Fairfax. — Two very good cows, particularly
No. 73.
74 Charles Towneley, of Towneley Park, near Burnley,
" Beauty," roan, 6 years and 9 months, in milk and in
calf, bred by exhibiter ; sire Victor (8739), dam Mamie,
sire of dam Marcus (2262). (First prize of ££0).— A
very fine animal, with hips astonishingly large and fat ;
the cow herself very fat, and almost a perfect cylinder ia
form, except her wonderful tuts and hipa ; neck rather
light, but breast exceedingly good ; her great top causes
her arms, legs, and flank to logk thin ; colour very good.

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80 J. S. Tauqueray, of Hendou, Middlesex, "Lady Barriugtou
the Eighth," roaD, 7 years and 7 months, in calf, bred by
Robeit Bell, of Kirklevington, near Yarm ; sire 2ad Duke
of Oxford, dam Lady Barrington the 5tb, sire of dam 4th
Duke of Northumberland. — A very large, well made ani-
mal ; long body ; fore quarter not quite proportioned to
the hind quarter, which is very good.

This is a very superior class, and fully keeps up the
reputation of the Shorthorned cow.

Class V. — Heifers in milk or in calf, not exceeding
3 years old.

85 Charles Towneley, of Towneley Park, near Burnley, " Ves-
tris," light roan, 2 years and 9 months, in calf, bred by
exhibiter; sire Hudibras (10339), dam Venetia, sire of
dam Tom of Lincoln (8714) : and 86, " Butterfly 2nd,"
red and white, 2 years and 5 months, in calf, bred by ex-
hifeiter; sire Garrick (11507), dam Butterfly, sire of dam
Jeweller (10354).— Two well proportioned fine animals,
and large. No. 85 takes the second prize of 10?., and is
a beautiful animal, having a nearly perfect form and sym-
metry ; broad and full in every part, with fine beautiful
bead and horns.

88 James Douglas, of Athelstaneford Farm, near Drem, East
Lothian, Haddington, " Rose of Summer," red, 2 years
and 2 mouths, in calf, bred by exhibiter; sire Velvet
Jacket (10998), dam Rose of Autumn, sire of dam Sir
Henry (10834). (First prize of 15Z.)— Very good and well
made, but rather small ; of cxceedmg fine quality, short
and thick; neck she has none, her ears aud shoulder
nearly meeting ; frame very deep, chine surprisingly good,
hips not wide, tuts narrow ; but her general form is won-
derfully compact and full.

Class VI.— Yeakling Heifers.
92 Richard Stratton, of Broad Hinton, near Swindon,
" Graceful," roan, 1 year and 4 months, bred by exhi-
biter ; sire Waterloo, dam Stately, sire of dam Hero of
the West— is very finely proportioned, and received
commendation.
94, 95 Charles Towneley, of Towneley Park, near Burnley,
" Blanche 6th," red and white, 1 year and 10 months,
bred by exhibiter ; sire Frederick (11489), dam Blanche
5th, sire of dam Duke of Northumberland (19 iO); and
"Roan Duchess 2nd," roan, 1 year aud 9 months, bred
by exhibiter ; sire Frederick (11489), dam roau Duchess,
sire of dam Whittington (12299)— two beautifully-
formed heifers, particularly No. 94, which takes the 1st
prize of 10/. She has a beautiful head, and fine horns, a
prominent good shoulder, fiue chine, wide hips, and ribs
well out, flank and under parts all right, tuts great and
good ; very fine in offal. She is of fine symmetry and
quality. No. 95 is a beautiful heifer.
97 George Sainsbury, of The Priory, Corsham, near Chip-
penham, " Countess 4 th of Gloucester," red and white, 1
year and 7§ months, bred by exhibiter ; sire the Duke
of Gloucester, dam Countess 1st, sire of dam Antonio-
takes the 2nd prize of 51. She is rather too narrow in
chine, back, and hips, but, as a whole, a good heifer, long
in frame, and high standing,
100, 101, 102 John Kirkham, of Hagnaby, near Spilsby,
" Singwell," roan, 1 year 8 months 21 days, bred by
exhibiter ; sire Hamlet (8126), dam Songstress, sire of
dam Baronet (6763) ; " Susan," white, 1 year 9 months
and 27 days, bred by exhibiter ; sire Hamlet (8126),
dam Snowdrop, sire of dam Neptune (7273) ; and " Ata-
lanta," white, 1 year 7 months and 2 days, bred by ex-

hibiter; sire Usurer (9763), dain Amy, sire of dam
Burglar (10007) — three very creditable animals to be
shown by one breeder. No. 101 is a very prettily formed
animal.

103 J. V. Machin, of Gateford Hill, near Worksop, " Hip-
sipyle No. 2," roan, 1 year and 5 months, bred by ex-
hibiter; sire Sir Plume, dam Lady Bountiful, sire of dam
Rodolph (9569).

105 Richard Booth, of Warlaby, near Northallerton, " Orange
Blossom," white, 1 year and 3 months, bred by exhibiter ;
sire Vanguard, dam Hawthorn Blossom, sire of dam
Leonard — a very good yearling.

106, 107 William Fletcher, of Radmanthwaite, near Mans-
field, " Flora," red, 1 year 6 months and 2 weeks, bred
by exhibiter ; sire Prince of Wales, dam Flower, sire of
dam Prince of Wales ; and " Janette," red, 1 year 4
months and 3 weeks, bred by exhibiter ; sire Prince of
Wales, dam Jenny Lind — two well formed, good animals.

HEREFORD S.

We now come to the classes of Herefords. The Ilere^
ford cattle are now universally known by their peculiar
colour and form. The colour is usually red, either light
or dark, with white face, and a white streak along the
back ; generally some marks of white about the neck
and along under the body : there is a grey or roan
variety with similar white marks. Their form is singu-
larly compact, full, and symmetrical. The origin of
this breed of " white faces " is yet a mystery, but it is
affirmed that they were introduced from Flanders near
200 years ago, and fac-similes of them are to be found
in old Flemish paintings ; be that as it may, it is certain
that they have undergone immense improvement within
the last fifty years. Many attain a large size, and the
breed stands pre-eminent for that rotundity of shape,
that fulness of chest, and breadth of chine so essential
to a good constitution; their general contour and
vivacity of look are admirable. The cow is a good
milker, giving large quantities of milk upon moderate
provender. This department of the show has been a
very circumscribed one, the number of animals altoge-
ther shown in the various classes not exceeding nineteen,
and few of them of first-rate character.

Class L — Bulls calved previously to the Ist of July, 1852,
and not exceeding 4 years old.

112 Edward Price, of Court House, Leominster "Magnet,"
red and white, 2 years and 10 months, bred by Thomas
Yeld, of Bodenham, near Leominster ; sire The Knight,
dam Spot, sire of dam Big Ben (first prize of 40l,). —
He is of great substance in little room, stands wide, good
form. This is a good and profitable animal, without
many marks of great superiority.

114 John Carsvardine, of Stockton Bury, near Leominster,
" Malcolm," dark red, 3 years and 6 months, bred by
John Turner, of Court of Noah, near Pembridge ; sire
The Knight, dam Nutty (second prize of 20l.) — A fiue
animal of great substance, head fair, neck large, chine
very deep, great length, good hips, rump not good, thighs
large.

Class IL — Bulls calved since the 1st of July, 1852, anp

more than 1 year old.
118 James Rea, of Monaughty, near Knighton, " Guardian,''
red with white face, 1 year 7 months and 1 week, bred

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123

by exhibiter ; aire Attraction (892), dam Spot, aire of
dam Cholatrey (217), (first prize of 25l.).— Tliis bids fair
to make a good heavy auimal, having plenty of good lean
flesh.
115 William Styles Powell, of Castle Street, Hereford, "Bre-
con," red brown with white face, 1 year 7 months and 23
days, bred by Walter Maybery, of Brecon ; sire Young
Dewsall, sire of dam Henry the Second (second prize of
15l.). — This has a good fore-quarter, and fair cylindrical
form ; hind-quarter rather defective.
The other bulls shovyn in this class were very credita-
ble animals. No. 117, the property of the Earl of Rad-
nor, evidenced some very good points, and is a good
and profitable animal (highly commended). Nos. 119
and 120, the property of Lord Berwick, are beautiful
specimens of the breed, and show good breeding through-
out (highly commended).

Class III. — Bull Calves, above 6 and under 12 mouths
old.

In this class only one animal was shown, this was the
property of Mr. Edward Price, of Court House, near
Leominster, ''Magnet the Second," red and white, 8
months, bred by exhibiter ; sire Magnet, dam Windsor,
sire of dam Pembridge (the prize of IOl.) . — A very use-
ful, well-formed calf; and the prize was properly
awarded.

Class IV. — Cows in-milk or in calf.

122 Philip Turner, of The Leen, Pembridge, near Leominster,
" Nell Gwynue," brown with white face, 3 years and 6
months, in milk and in calf, bred by exhibiter ; sire The
Knight, dam Belle, sire of dam Sir Walter (first prize of
20l.)

123 Lord Berwick, of Cronkhill, near Shrewsbury, "Miss
Lewes," red spots ou white face, 3 years 6 months and 2
days, in milk and in calf, bred by his Lordship ; sire
Wonder, dam Duchess of Norfolk, sire of dam Tom
Thumb (second prize of IOl.). — She is well filled out in
every part ; large and heavy, with beautiful countenance.

In this class only two animals competed, which, how-
ever, were good representatives of the breed.

Class V. — Heifers in-milk or in-calf, not exceeding
3 years old.

124 WUliara Perry, of Cholstrey, near Leominster, " Fancy,"
red and white, 2 years and 8 months, in calf, bred by
exhibiter ; sire Noble Boy, dam Gloucester, sire of dam
Harden (first prize of 15l.). — A very fine broad-framed
heifer, with excellent points and plenty of lean flesh.

125 The Earl of Radnor, of Coleshill House, near Highworth,
" Stately," red and white, 2 years and 3 months, in calf,
bred by his Lordship ; sire Venison, dam Young Sove-
reign (113), sire of dam Jeff'ries (second prize of IOl). —
A large useful heifer.

In this class also the competition was confined to two

animals.

Class VI. — Yearling Heifeks.

130 John Walker, of Westfield House, Holmer, near Here-
ford, "Lady," brown with white face, 1 year 8 months
and 10 days, bred by exhibiter ; sire Widemarsh, dam
Windsor, sire of dam Governor (first prize of IOl.) — This
heifer denotes fair substance, length, and good frame.

128 Philip Turner, of The Leen, Pembridge, near Leominster,
" Gazelle," brown with white face, 1 year and 7 months,
bred by exhibiter ; sire Andrew the Second, dam Vesta

sire of dam Sir Walter (second prize of 5l.).- A very
pretty little heifer.
This was a rather better class-competition, though
only five entries.

DEVONS.
The variety usually shown in these classes is the
North Devon cattle. The South Devon is far inferior
to the North Devon. He is generally of slender make,
and altogether is considered a mis-shapen animal, and
the quality of his flesh coarse and unprofitable. The
North Devon, on the contrary, is probably the hand-
somest and hardiest of the English breeds, as also one
of the oldest native herds. The flesh is of excellent
quality, and it is produced in larger quantity on the
most valuable joints than other breeds. They fatten
rapidly, and their beautiful appearance and symmetrical
proportions are nearly perfect. They do not come to
so large weights as the Short-horns or Herefords ; but
their adaptation for ploughing and to thrive on inferior
pasturage is so remarkable, the peculiarity of their cha-
racter is so distinct, and the extent to which they are bred
so great, as to fully entitle them to a distinct class in
the Society's exhibitions. The cows are proverbially
good milkers, and Devonshire cream and Devonshire
butter are of all kinds most popular. The show this
year is not equal to some of former years, but de-
cidedly good, comprising thirty-eight animals in the
different classes, and those of a character fully cal-
culated to keep up the reputation of the breed, and
the celebrity of the breeders. The prizes have been
pretty equally distributed between those gentlemen
whose names have long appeared before the public as
breeders of Devons — Somersetshire once more coming
into formidable competition.
Class I.— Bulls calved previously to the 1st of July, 1852,

and not exceeding 4 years old.
138 Samuel Farthing, of Stowey Court, near Bridgewater,
" Baronet," red, 3 years 2| months, bred by exhibiter ;
sire Baronet, dam Dairymaid. (First prize of £40).—
This is a very heavily loaded animal, possessing great
substance, of good quality, in little compass, his shoulders
are rather high, his back not even, good rump, capital
ribs and thighs.
131 George Turner, of Barton, near Exeter, " Abd-el-Kadir,"
red, 2 years and 4 months, bred by Richard Moggeridge,
of Holland, near South Molton j sire Earl of Exeter, dam
Prettymaid, sire of dam Baronet. (Second prize of £20).
This is a very prettily formed animal, with deep chest
and great beauty, of exceedingly good quality, but rather
small ; his offal not much heavier than some of the large
pigs.

Class II. — Bulls calved since the Ist of July, 1852, and
more than I year old.

140 Robert Wright, of Hoor Farm, near Taunton, " Pro-
tector," red, 1 year 11 months and 20 days, bred by ex
hibiter ; sire Young Miracle, dam Fancy, sire of dam Fat
Ass. (First prize of £25). — This is a bull of very even
proportions, deep chest, ribs not sufliciently springing,
good level back, but not wide, very handsome, and of
fine quality.

143 James Quartly, of Holland House, near South Molton,
" Napoleon," red, 1 year and 6 mouths, bred by exbi-

K 2

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THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

biter; sire Duke of Devonshire, dam Rosebud, siie of dam
Baronet. (Second prize of £15).— This ia a finely pro-
portioned and compact animal, of great merit ; head not

very pleasant looking.

Class III. — Bull Calves above 6 and under 12 months
old.
la this class the competition was limited to two
animals.

144 George Turner, of Barton, near Exeter, "Th.e Czar,"
red, 7 months and 1 week, bred by eshibiter ; sire Earl
of Exeter, dam Sontag, sire of dam Baronet. (Prize
of £10).

Class IV.— Cows in-Milk or in-Calf.
There was a good competition in this class — the

animals equal to former years.

153 Samuel Farthing, of Stowey Court, near Bridgewater
" Lovely," red, 4 years 2^ mouths, in-milk and in-calf,
bred by exhibiter ; sire Wonder, dam Lofty. (First
prize of £20). — This is a cow of very great beauty, even,
deep, and full throughout, pleasant looks, capital
shoulders, a perfect cylindrical frame, of excellent quality.

155 The Earl of Leicester, of Holkham, near Wells-next-the-
Sea, Norfolk, " Beauty," red, about 8 years, in-calf, bred
by R. Merson, of Brinsworthy, near North Molton.
(Second prize of £10). — A cow answering in every respect
to her given name, Beauty.

Class V. — Heifers In-milk or In-calf, not exceeding
3 years old.

Only three competitors in this class, the animals very

creditable.

157 George Turner, of Barton, near Exeter, " Dahlia," red, 2
years and 5 months, in-calf, bred by exhibiter ; sire Earl
of Exeter, dam Julyflower. (First prize of £15). — This
is a fine specimen of the breed as a young heifer, de-
licate in make, of superior quality, very proportionate
frame, of great beauty.

159 Jamea Quartly, of Holland House, near South Molton,
" Graceful," red, 2 years and 6 months, in-calf, bred by
exhibiter; sire Duke of Devonshire, dam Curly (93),
sire of dam Quartley's Prince of Wales. (Second prize
of £10). — This really accords with her name, " Grace-
ful ;" capital tuts and twist, very pretty.

Class VI. — Yearling Heifers.

This was an interesting class, and several good ani-
mals were exhibited.

165 George Turner, of Barton, near Exeter, " Garcia," red, 1
year and 7 months, bred by John Halse, of Moll and
near South Molton; sire Earl of Exeter. (First prize of
£10). — This is a very pretty specimen of the breed, and
well worthy the distinction, exceedingly well made, being
a full aud beautiful cylinder.

13'J George Turner, of Barton, near Exeter, " Daphne," red^
1 year and 6 months, bred by William Baker, of Bishop's
Nympton, near South Molton ; sire Earl of Exeter. —
Was highly commended, which she richly deserved, being
deeply formed, but of fine quality.

137 Thomas Webber, of Halberton Court, near Tiverton,
" Jenny Lind," red, 1 year 7 months and 2 weeks, bred
by exhibiter ; sire Sir Robert, dam Rosebud. (Second
prize of £5). — la a beautiful little heifer, nicely propor-
tioned, with flanks somewhat slight.

The classes 4 and 6 were generally commeuded.

OTHER BREEDS.

This is a class combining all breeds, except those just
named. We have before expressed our doubts respecting
this class. We doubt the feasibility of bringing ail
"other breeds" into one general competition : in order
to improve the whole, every variety of Irish, Scotch,
Welsh, and English, not included in the three favoured
classes, are here sought to be shown in rivalship ; the re-
sult is, that very few ever come at all. These classes might
embrace, or be composed of upwards of 100 varieties-
breeds aud subvarieties of breeds. Every district of the
three kingdoms lays claim to peculiar distinctions inbreed,
and each has as strong advocates in its favour. This can-
not be right : Judges crnnot adjudicate properly amidst
so many kinds, and designed for so many purposes. We
should prefer offering prizes for the best animals suited
to certain districts or particular purposes. We might
thus have put before us for decision the best breed for
mountain pastures, hilly districts, moorlands and other
inferior herbage ; or, again, the best milkers or most
prolific breeders, &c., &c. We might thus from time
to time gain knowledge ; but to have such a mingled
class, in order that the judges may tell us which is the
best animal amongst them, can answer no very useful
end ; the show of this year fully bears out our views,
for while we have some splendid specimens of Longhorns,
we have standing beside them, as if intended to excite
the ridicule of a public not always considerate enough
to look to the design for which they are bred. We want
a designation analogous to the above, in order to pro-
mote the most good. We do not complain of individuals
sending inkrior-lookinff animals for competition in this
class : we highly approve it : many are very valuable
for certain purposes which are not surpassingly good in
our eyes as animals ; and if such were not shown, the
public would remain uninformed respecting them. All
we ask for is, a more extended and better classification,
which we trust the liberality of the public will enable
the Council to adopt. The show in this class was
a great improvement upon some past years. Although
in Class I. for Bulls calved previously to the 1st of July,
1852, and not exceeding four years old, there was no
entry, and consequently no competition, the cow class
was very good.

Class II. — Bulls calved since the Ist of July, 1852, and
more than 1 year old.

This was but a moderate class.

173 Samuel Burbery, of Wroxhall, near Warwick, long-horned
breed, "Brind," 1 year and 4 months, bred by exhibiter;
sire Chasleton, dam Primrose, sire of dam Blucber
(Prize of £10). — A fair useful bull.

Class III. — Cows in-Milk or in-Calf.

This was a good class, and the long-horned cows very
good.

184 Captain Inge, of Thorpe Constantine, near Tamworth,
pure long-horned breed, " Favourite J 2," red and white,
9 years 3 months and 22 days, in-milk and in-calf, bred
by exhibiter ; sire White Thighs No. 25, dam Fillpail J 1
(Prize of £10). — A very fine specimen of the long-horned
breed ; very good, aud cylindrically proportioned.

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125

179 Samuel Burbery, of Wroxhall, near Warwick, long-horned
breed, " Violet," brind and white, 6 years and 4 months,
in-calf, bred by exhibiter; sire Blucher, dam Daisy
(Second prize of £5). — This is a very good animal; more
compact than the former, with exceedingly good frame and
fine condition.

Class IV. — No conapetition.

Class V. — Yearling Heifers.
188 Captain Inge, of Thorpe Constantine, near Tamworth,
pure long-horned breed, "Buffalo E 6," red and white, 1
year 5 months and 2 days, bred by exhibiter ; sire Roll-
right X 50, dam Bashful E 2, sire of dam White Thighs
No. 25 (Prize of £5).
This class was confined to two animals.

HORSES.

We now come to the class of horses, which is a great
improvement upon some former years. All kinds are
now included in one general term, " for agricultural
purposes," in which even the roadster stallion very fairly
takes his place. The large " agricultural" horse is the
London dray-horse : he is good for both purposes, so
that the Society have no improper limit ; he may, how-
ever, be rather too heavy for ordinary farm uses. We
again demur as to the expediency of including all breeds
of horses indiscriminately in this class — farm-horses of
every breed ; the Lincoln and Clydesdale dray-horses
against the Suffolk punches ; and these in competition
with the almost innumerable varieties of farm-horses
throughout the country. These must necessarily be
adjudged in a great degree in accordance with the pre-
vailing taste of each individual judge (and in "horse-
flesh" who has not his peculiar taste?) We do not
impugn judges : they may act with the strictest impar-
tiality, notwithstanding. Here all are to be judged by
one standard — " for agricultural purposes" : it must be
much a matter of taste. We should prefer some divi-
sion of breeds, as in the cattle and sheep classes. The
Suflfolk Punch is probably unequalled as a farm-horse ;
the Clydesdale and Lincoln dray-horses are more
valuable on sale; these might be kept quite distinct in
class, and so with any other kind that denote such
manifest distinction in breeding ; if not, as in pigs, our
judges must define them. The show has fully equalled
our expectations, and many fine horses have been ex-
hibited. The agricultural stallion classes are well sus-
tained, though not so numerous as we expected to see
them. The Society should have bethought them of the
character of the county, and provided for it. A class
should certainly have been organized for hunters, and a
prize ofi"ered. Happily, the Mayor of Lincoln and the
gentlemen of the local committee supplied this lack from
their own means. The result has proved their wisdom,
and is very worthy of the occasion. The yearling show
surpassed, in some instances, anything we before
remember. The mares and foals were well worthy of
notice ; but without giving further time to a preliminary
notice, we will pass forward, and devote a cursory re-
mark to such animals as commend themselves to our
judgment.

In Class 1, devoted to stallions for agricultural pur-
poses, foaled previously to the 1st January, 1852, we
find a very noticeable improvement. Those animals
that have received prizes quite deserve them, and those
that are commended suflSciently merit commendation ;
while we fancy that, had the judges possessed more
tickets for distinction, they would have put them more
frequently than they have done.

Mr. James Stockdale and Messrs. Edward and Mat-
thew Reed bore away the prize in this class. The
property of the latter gentleman was a fine old bay
farmer's horse, more commendable in many points than
Mr. Stockdale's. Mr. Biddell's Suffolk stallion ex-
celled the prize horse in girth. There was a fine horse
we noticed, the property of Mr. Hemmant, with ex-
ceedingly deep fore-quarters — a great carcase, but some-
what out of fashion. Mr. llenton's horse was well made
up in his loin ; and Mr. Matthew Berridge's, although
a fine useful fellow, was, we thought, rather too short-
backed— an almost excusable fault. We noticed the
same defect in Mr. Savage's horse, which possesses at
the same time considerable merit. We thank Mr.
Gilbert for the sight of his " Leicestershire Hero," a
splendid animal, with few defects, and a very superior
chest. He received commendation. The Suffolk stand-
ing next the second prize, Mr. Wilson's property, i§ too
fat, and has bad hocks. This good point, however,
quite redeems these defects. The Suffolks certainly
make a good show. Mr. Bickell's stands well up on
his fore legs, and is admirably topped. The Duke of
Manchester's "Boxer" is a very beautiful animal,
perfect in symmetry, but too small — possibly too fine
also. Mr. Gant's, a Lincoln-bred animal, has a bad
back, and too much hair, but is commended.

In passing to Class 2, wherein are the two-year-old
stallions for agricultural purposes, we notice that
Rutlandshire and Suffolk take the prizes. Mr. Bran is
the owner of the first prize horse, and Mr. Wilson of
the other. Mr. Wilson exhibits also another two-year-
old chesnut stallion, which is most deservedly com-
mended. Mr. Cottingham's, another Suffolk, is, we
think, deserving of commendation, albeit he does not
obtain it. For all that the horse is something short in
his neck, he seems as though he could not get anything
wrong. For getting powerful, active plough-horses, he
stands scarcely second to any in this class.

The most remarkable animal, in our opinion, in the
yard, or at any rate amongst the horses, may be seen in
the 3rd class. We need not say that we allude to Mr.
Robert Howard's prize yearling. Every one mentions
it with a glow of enthusiasm. It stands out alone in
the class, and the other competitors suffer by the com-
parison, although there are some fine colts too. And
Lincolnshire bears the belt. Never did we see a yearling
so furnished : his points excel those of some four-year-
olds. The first prize could not have been more pro-
perly awarded. Although the other yearlings are
dwarfed by comparison with this peerless creature, we
may notice that Mr. Catlin's is deservedly commended.
Mr. Tebbet exhibits a colt also, that stands nobly on
his fore legs. Mr. Eno and Mr. Haselwood must have

126

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

been rather misled as to the value of the animals they
exhibited.

With roadster stallions we were much pleased. The
road horse is more difficult to meet with in perfection
than either the hunter or courser. He must be a horse
of all worlf : and so rarely is he to be met with, and
so much is the demand increased for him, that we wel-
come any stallion likely to supply a want so universally
felt and expressed. Mr. Innocent stands foremost in
this class with his " Calton," a six-years-old, dark
bay stallion. The judges have judged wisely, we think.
'•' Sir Charles," the property of Mr. Taylor, is an ex-
ceedingly fine animal. His formation denotes strong
constitution and good running properties. He seems
peculiarly adapted for his work. Considering his age,
and the work he has done, his legs are in a capital state.
Our eye was also attracted to Mr. Ramsbottom's 15
years old " Fire-away," an admirable horse, with splen-
did quarters, and faultless legs. Mr. Daubney's
"Grey Thornton" is deserving of attention. Seldom
have we seen so beautiful a head and neck. Mr.
Gant's " Merry Legs" is a strong, useful horse, rather
too heavy in the fore-hand. He seems so well built,
however, as not to be able to get anything other than
useful stock. Mr. Savage's displays good breeding,
boasts a good carcase, but is light on his fore-legs.

Passing to the mares and foals, we remark that the prize
mare exhibited by Dr. Timms is too light on her legs.
We must say that we could not see wherein Dr. Timms'
mare and foal were superior to the mare and foal that
won the second prize, exhibited by Mr. Page. The
best foal, in our opinion, was Mr. Barratt's. Mr.
Bading shows an excessively fine mare, with splendid
quarters. The foal is short, but useful.

Amongst the fillies, Suffolk bears off the palm. The
first prize is awarded to Mr. Barthropp, and the second
to Mr. Bayles, for a Lincolnshire bred filly. Mr.
Gothorp exhibits a fine animal. Mr. Catlin shows
three in this class. One of them is well backed, with
short legs, and good quarters, and is most deservedly
commended. Another has a good carcase, but is defi-
cient in his legs. Mr. Timms has a good horse, which
would be no worse if his quarters were rather lower. A
Suffolk filly, exhibited by Mr. Wythes, is commended.

And now we pass to a class of especial importance,
held as the present meeting is, in the midst of one great
hunting county, and upon the borders of another. Mr.
Tweed, the Mayor of Lincoln, and the members of the
local committee, have come forward with prizes of their
own, and their call has been promptly responded to. It
was very desirable to have a display of hunters, and
most praiseworthy was it on the part of these gentlemen
to have foreseen this necessity, and arranged for it.
The contest seems to us to be a very hard-run one be-
tween Mr. Denison's " Loutherbourg " and Mr. V/at-
son's " Drayton." The former is certainly a splendid
type of a horse, but seems to us somewhat more adapted
to get carriage- horses than hunters. From age and
work he is shaky on his forelegs. He bears away the
prize of ^40. "Drayton" is a fine specimen of a
steeple-chase horse. He struck us as being in eveiy

way adapted for the purpose for which he is intended :
he is a good horse all over, save his head perhaps,
which may be a little too coarse. There is one point in
which he is assuredly superior to " Loutherbourg;" it
is this — he is, as we hear, a better getter.

" The Red-Cross Knight" (the Messrs. Marfleei's
property) is a really valuable farmer's horse, and cannot
we should judge, get other than useful stock. This
horse was placed second by the judges, the preference
between him and " Loutherbourg" being a matter of
much debate. Mr. Welfit exhibits two horses in this
class. His "Rat-Trap" is very strengthy in loin and
quarters, but capped-hocked. His " Stone Plover " is
thick in the fore- quarters, has straight thighs, and does
not display much breeding. Certainly one of the most
splendid and stylish horses in the yard was " Maroon,"
although not so distinguished here as he has been.

Mr. Denison appears in the next and last class, for
the exhibition of three-year-old hunting geldings, or
filhes. But his bay filly is too heavily topped. The
first prize is awarded to Mr. Richard Stockdale, for a
brown gelding (who exhibits also another brown, well-
bred gelding, with very fine hocks) ; while the second
is given to Mr. Morris, for a chestnut gelding. The
latter horse has a superior neck and head : his hind-
legs would be better for a little more bone ; and his
shoulders, had they not been quite so prominent, would
have induced less remark. Mr. Slater showed a bay
gelding, with good thighs and famous carcase.

SHEEP.

The show in all classes is very large, particularly of
Leicesters and long wools ; while the number of im-
proved Lincolns far exceeds that of any previous in-
stance, when a local class has been provided by the
society.

Leicesters.

Class I. — Shearling Rams : In spite of close
competition, one exhibiter was here able to carry
off both prizes. The prize shearlings were bred by
Mr. T. E. Pawlett, of Beeston, Beds, and are
remarkable for their long and level backs, broad spring-
ing chines, good rumps and thighs, and deep plates.
The rams of Mr. J. Barton, of Bartou-le-street, York-
shire, are deservedly famed ; but in the present instance,
we think, that although possessing good fore quarters,
and being well fleshed, they have not quite sufficient
depth (two of these are commended). There are some
very useful animals exhibited by Mr. G. Radmore, of
Court Hayes, near Collumpton. Mr. Turner, of
Barton, near Exeter, also shows some very compact,
well-made sheep. The rams of Mr. Sanday, of Holme
Pierrepont, near Nottingham, are broad, with good
good chines and plates, but rather too small in frame,
and with a deficient quality of wool. The sheep
shown by Mr. S. Wiley, of Barnsby, Yorkshire, have
nice frames, but rather narrow shoulders, and too little
wool. Lord Berners exhibits a large and heavy -woolled
ram. Those of Mr. H. Mann, of Lighthorne, Warwick,
are more of Cotswold than Leicester character.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

127

Class II. — Rams of any other age : Mr. J.
Borton takes the first prize, for a very handsome sheep,
with good chest ; and Mr. Abraham, of Barnetby-le-
Wold, Lincolnshire, takes the second, for a sheep with
wide and straight back, heavy neck, broad chine, and
good wool. Mr. Turner and Mr. Wiley's rams, com-
mended, are very useful animals, especially the latter,
which is certainly very fine and compactly formed. Mr.
Sanday's, sheep, in this class, have very good uniform
frames and firm mutton, but their backs not well
covered.

Class III. — Pens of Five Shearling Ewes :
The first prize is awarded to Mr. G. Walmesley, of
Rudstone, Yorkshire, for a lot with uncommonly good
flesh, compact forms, and very fine bone. The second
prize to Mr. Abraham, for a good pen of well-made
ewes, though scarcely deep enough through the chest.
Mr. Sanday's pen, commended, are beautiful, and have
plenty of wool, but are not large enough in frame.

Short Wools.

In this class there is very considerable merit, notwith-
standing the absence of Mr. Jonas Webb's splendid
animals from the show ; but we must condemn the
practice of some exhibiters, in trimming their sheep to
such an extent, as often to hide very serious defects in
form, particularly high loins.

Class I. — Shearling Rams : The prize Ram of
Mr. U. Lugar, of Hengrave, Suffolk, is a finely formed
animal, neck good, back level, wool fine. The second
prize ram, of the Duke of Richmond's, is also of great
merit, having a level broad back, and full shoulders and
chine. Mr. Lugar's sheep we much admired, though a
shade darker in colour than some others, and perhaps a
little too high-loined in some cases. Mr. Sainsbury, of
West Lavington, Wilts., has some good sheep, though
some rather light at the shoulder. We consider that the
commended ram of Mr. Rigden, of Hove, Sussex, is
well entitled to its honour. Lord Walsingham shows a
heavy good sheep, with very deep flank; and Mr. H.
Overman, of Weasenham, Norfolk, has here some
beautiful animals, large, with thick and deep frames,
but with very much wool.

Class II. — Rams of any other Age, — Mr.
Sainsbury takes the first prize, for a 29 months' old
ram, of great length and yet well formed, and with good
back. The second prize goes to Mr. Rigden, for a 28
months' old ram, with lev3l back, good rump, good
chine, heavy thighs, but perhaps a little failing in the
chest. Mr. Lugar's highly commended ram has a level
back, great girth, but rather narrow twist. Mr. Rigden
receives anoher commendation in this class.

Class III. — Pens of Five Shearling Ewbs. —
Mr. Overman's prize ewes are remarkably fine and well-
made ; and the Duke of Richmond's second prize ewes
are certainly beautiful animals, though somewhat small,
and with less wool. We noted Mr. Lugar's two pens
as uncommonly well formed and beautiful ewes ; both
well worthy of commendation, though but one lot ob-
tained it.

Long Wools.

As we might expect, in Lincolnshire, the show of

long wools is unprecedented as regards the number of
specimens ; and we find from the catalogue that one-
fit'th of the exhibitors in this class are men of this county,
notwithstanding that a special class has been prepared
for them.

Class I. — Shearling Rams.— Mr. G. Fletcher, of
Shipton, near Andoversfbrd, takes the first prize. His
ram is of amazing length and size, finely-proportioned
and grand-looking, though with a head somewhat too
short for some tastes. Mr. G. Hewer, of Laygore, near
Northleach, shows his very superior breed of animals,
celebrated not only for their great size and spacious
form, but equally so for their very firm mutton and
pleasing countenances. Number 462 has the second
prize. Mr. W. Lane, of BroadfieldFarm, near North-
leach, exhibits some really marvellous shearlings, of im-
mense size and weight for such young sheep. He has
obtained three commendations for them. We specially
noticed as very meritorious animals the shearling rams
of Mr. W. Game, of Aldsworth, near Northleach;
those of Mr. W. Cother, of Middle Aston, near Wood-
stock, Oxon ; and three exhibited by Lord de Mauley,
of Hatherop Castle, near Fairford, Gloucester.

Class II. — Rams of any other Age. — The first
prize ram of Mr. W. Lane, 28 months old, is an animal
possessing many good points, combined with unusual
size ; and the second prize ram, 40 months old, belonging
to the same breeder, is quite as extraordinary. Mr. E.
Handy, of Sierford, near Andoversford, shows some
first-rate rams in this class. A very superior sheep of
Lord de Mauley's breeding is highly commended.

Class III. — Pens of Five Shearling Ewes.—
Mr. W. Game's beautiful ewes take the first prize ; Mr.
Lane's take the second ; and we must say that these
are really surprising animals, their size being that of
some rams, and their breadth of chine and loin, and
fore-quarter and rumps, is as great as their heads and
bone are fine. Mr. Garne receives also a commendation
for another good pair of ewes ; so does Mr. Fletcher ;
and a high commendation is bestowed upon a lot of fine
ewes, bred and exhibited by Mr. J. Walker, of East-
ington, near Northleach. We were sorry to observe
in this class a pen of poor narrow-loined and thin-
scragged ewes, shown by Mr. J. Peel, of Lincoln, as
they contrasted so unfavourably among the magnificent
animals which the Oxfordshire and Gloucestershire
breeders have brought, to dispose of to Lincolnshire
customers.

Improved Lincolns.

This class has been aopointed, according to the cus-
tom of the Society, to test or develope the breeding
capabilities of the district in which the meeting is held ;
and we may say, that on no former occasion has the
local class of sheep been so numerously filled with good
animals, or so well characterized by good mutton and
fine qualities. The Improved Lincoln occupies a very
extensive district of the country, and, from the fact of
producing a longer and heavier fleece than any other
sheep, forms a very important breed. We cannot say
that all the sheep exhibited in this class were of peculiar
merit ; indeed, from what we know of the various Lin-

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THE FARMER^S MAGAZINE.

cola flocks, we anticipated a still better show : but we
can safely afiirm that many of the animals possess great
beauty, extraordinary substance and symmetry, good
looks, fine quality of flesh, and a long thick-set staple of
very good wool. Without the amazing proportions of
the Cotswold or New Oxfordshire breeds, they have
hitherto failed to succeed in competition with them in
the same class ; but as animals profitable to both breeder
and grazier in meat and wool, they are abundantly able
to enter the field against the broader framed but lighter
skinned Cotswolds.

Class I. — Shearling Rams. — The first prize is
awarded to Mr. John Clarke, of Long Sutton, Lincoln-
shire, for a good well-made sheep, with good mutton
and plenty of wool. The second prize to Mr. Thomas
Greetbam, of Wragby, Lincolnshire, for a useful far-
mers' sheep, fairly proportioned, and of considerable
merit. There are two commendations for the very useful
shearlings of Mr. Percival Richardson, of Horkstow
Villa, near Barton upon Humber, Lincolnshire, bred
from the long celebrated stock of Mr. J. Kirkham, of
Hagnaby, near Spilsby, Lincolnshire, who also exhibits
two good sheep. With the exception of two capital
rams shown by Mr. J. B. Colton, of Eagle Hall, near
Newark, and two good sheep of Mr. Abrahams', unfor-
tunately disqualified in consequence of wrong entry, there
is nothing else in this class worthy of special remark.
Class TL — Rams of any other Age,

Both first and second prizes are taken by Mr. John
Clarke. Both animals of great size, breadth, and
depth ; good rumps, loins, and legs ; firm, beautiful
meat, and very heavy wool. The first prize sheep is ex-
ceeded in girth, we believe, by only one sheep in the
yard — viz., one of Mr. Lane's Cotswolds, and he clipped
in three years no less than 51f lbs. of wool. One of
Mr. John Clarke's rams is also highly commended. In
this class is a very superior Leicester ram, bred by Mr.
Abraham, but disqualified from having been entered in
the wrong class.

Class IIL — Pens of Five Shearling Ewes,

Mr. John Kirkham obtains the prize for a lot of very
good ewes, having plenty of wool. The ewes of Mr.
Henry V. Grantham, of Scawby, near Brigg, Lincoln-
Bhire, are highly commended; they are well formed,
and well made up, but their wool is perhaps a little too
light for long-wool sheep. A commendation is be-
stowed upon the pen of ewes exhibited by Mr. W. Dud-
ding, of Sax by, near Market Rasen, Lincolnshire ; they
are a good lot, with a nice quantity of wool.

In the Class of Improved Lincoln Sheep

ENTERED FOR THE SPECIAL PrIZES OFFERED BY J.

J. TwEEDS, Esq., Mayor of Lincoln, we do not
notice any peculiar excellencies, with the exception of
those mentioned above ; most part of the foregoing
class having also entered in this. For shearling rams,
and for older rams, both the first prizes, together with
the second prize for older rams, are all taken by Mr. John
Clarke, for the same sheep that are winners in the
Society's Class.

^P° A notice of the pigs and poultry will appear with
that of the implements in our next.

CATALOGUE OF IMPLEMENTS, &c.,

EXHIBITED AT THE SHOW,

Thomas Bigg, of Great Dover Street, Southwark,
Surrey.

A sheep dipping: apparatus, invented, itiiproved, and manu=
factured by the exhibiter, price £5 to £3, ia sizes.

William Crosskill, of Beverley, Yorkshire.

A patent clod crusher, or serrated roller, invented, improved,
and manufactured by the exhibiter (received the prize of £iO
and a silver medal at Southampton, £10 at Shrewsbury, the
special gold medal from the Council after the Newcastle meet-
ing, and was included ia the sward of the great Council medal
at the Great Exhibition of 1851), price, for cash, £16 12s. 6d.,
to £12 7s., in sizes ; an improved Norwegian harrow, im-
proved and manufactured by the exhibiter (received tiie prize
of £5 at the Royal meeting at York, and included in the award
of the great medal at the Great Exhibition of 1851), price £15
15s. ; a Ducie drag harrow, or Illey cultivator (received prizes
amountiug to £45 at various meetings of the Royal Agricul-
tural Society), price £13 13s. ; and an improved horse rake,
invented, improved, and manufactured by the exhibiter, price
£7 lOj. ; a Hussey's reaping machine, invented by Obed
Hussey, of Baltimore, United States, improved and manufac-
tured by the exhibiter (this implement was highly commended
by the judges of the Royal Agricultural Society, at the Lewes
meeting in 1852), price £21 ; a Bell's original reaper, in-
vented by the Rev. Patrick Bell, of Carmylie, Scotland, im-
proved by Mr. George Bell, of luchmichael by Errol, nianu-
lactured by the exhibiter (received the £20 prize at the
adjourned trial at Pusey, from the Gloucester meeting of the
Royal Agricultural Society in 1853, the £10 prize and the
gold medal of the Yorkshire Agricultural Society, £40 prize at
the great trial at Stirling, and £10 prize of the North Lan-
cashire Agricultural Society), price £45 ; (new implement) au
improved Bell's reaping machine, invented by the Rev. Patrick
Bell, of Carmylie, Scotland, improved and manufactured by the
exhibiter, price £42 ; a pair horse spring waggon, price £36 ;
and a pair-horse waggon (received the head prizes of the so-
ciety at Norwich, Exeter, and Lewes, and included in the
award of the great Council medal at the Great Exhibition of
1851), price £27; an improved pair-horse waggon, improved
and manufactured by the exhibiter (received the prize of the
Royal Agricultural Society at Gloucester, in 1853), price £27;
a Newcastle or model one-horse cart, for general purposes
(received the prize at the Newcastle meeting of the Royal
Agricultural Society), price £13 lis. ; an improved Newcastle
cart, price £12 7s. ; and a Lewes prize cart, improved and
manufactured by the exhibiter (received the prizes at the
Norwich, Lewes, and Exeter meetings of the Koyal Agricul-
tural Society, price £11 7s. 6d. ; a York prize cart, price £11
78. ; and an improved one-horse cart, invented, improved, and
manufactured by the exhibiter, price £11 7s. 6d. ; a light
Scotch cart, price £10 93.; and thiee pair of patent cart
wheels and axles, improved and manufactured by the exhibiter,
price £6 3s. 6d. to £7 16s. 6d ; specimens of CrosjkiU's port-
able farm railway (received medals from the Royal Agricultural
Society, at the Norwich and Exeter meetings), price of the rail-
way complete, to carry 15 cwt. loads, 4s. per yard; specimens
of trucks for Crosskill'a portable railway, price of each truck
£5 10s. ; and an improved iron liquid manure cart, invented,
improved, and manufactured by the exhibiter (received a medal
at the Cambridge meeting of the Royal Agricultural Society),
price, with the pump and leather pipe, £22 15s. ; an improved
iron pump, improved and manufactured by the exhibiter, price
£7 7a. ; a sanitary or tumbler cart, invented by Richard
Strattou, of Bristol, improved and manufactured by the ex-
hibiter, price £28 lOs. ; a portable four-horse thrashing ma-
chine, price £50 ; a coru dressing machine, price £9 ; a
six-horse power portable steam engine, price £220; a portable
thrashinff, shaking, and dressing machine for steam power,
price £95 ; a portable corn mill for steam or water power,
price £55 ; a six-horse power patent eccentric mill, price £95 ;
and a three-horse power patent eccentric mill, improved and
manufactured by the exhibiter, price £45 ; a hand mill for
critshing corn, invented, improved and manufactured by Rich-
mond and Chandler, of Manchester, price £5 53, ; a portable

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

129

saw mill, price, including 18 inch saw, 181. lOs. ; and a small
cake breaker, improved and manufactured by the exhibiter,
price 41. 10s. ; three chaff-cutiing machines, invemed, im-
proved, and manufactured by Richmond and Chandler, of
Mancheater, price 41. lOs., 71., and 9/. ; (uew implements) two
chaff cutting machines, invented, improved, and manufactured
by the exhibiter, price 7Z. and 151.; a machine for breaking
oil-cake, improved and manufactured by the exhibiter, price 71.
lOs. ; an Archimedian root washer ; invented by Captain Carr,
of Tuacheubeck, improved and manufactured by the exhibiter
(received a silver medal at the York meeting of the Royal
Agricultural Society), price 51. lOs. ; a patent fixture pig-
trough, invented by Wm. Torr, Esq., of Aylesby, Lincoln-
shire, and manufactured by the exhibiter, price 41. ; and a
circular iron pig-trough, manufactured by the exhibiter, price

153.

F. M. McNeill and Co., of Buahillrow, London.

The patented asphalted felt for roofing houses and every
description of farm buildings, price Id. per square foot, or 8d.
the yard of 3 i inches wide ; models of roofs and specimen
framings, illustrating various cheap constructions of roofs for
the application of the felt.

James Dunlop, of Haddington.

A bridle for cart or farm harness, price 17s. 6d. ; and a
neck collar for cart or farm harness, improved and manufac-
tured by the exhibiter, price IBs. 6d. ; a patented self-adjusting
saddle for cart or farm harnes?, invented, improved, and manu-
factured by the exhibiter, price £1 7s. 6d. ; a breeching for
cart cr farm harness, price £1 4s., and a shaft belly band for
cart or farm harness, improved and manufactured by the ex-
hibiter, price 83. 6d. ; a set of hames for cart or farm harness,
improvt'd by the exhibiter, and manufactured by Wm. Hendry,
of Edinburgh, price 8s. 6d.; aback baud for plough harness,
price 83. 6d., and a bridle for cart or farm harness, improved
and manufactured by the exhibiter, price 9s. 6d. ; a neck
collar for cart or farm harness, invented, improved, and manu-
factured by the exhibiter, price £1 5s. 6d. ; a saddle for cart
or farm harness, price 18s. 6d.; a breeching for cart or farm
harness, price 18s. 6d., and a bridle for cart or farm harness,
improved and manufactured by the exhibitor, price I63. 6d. ;
a model of patented self adjusting saddle, and a model of saddle,
with the boards and bearings fixed to the crib.

Isaac James, of Cheltenham, Gloucestershire.

(New implements) four patent liquid manure distributors or
water carts, invented and manufactured by the exhibiter, price
from £9 to £22.

William Boulnois, the Baker-street Bazaar, London.

Three patent steel meal or flour mills, invented and manu-
factured by S. and C. Adams, of Oldbury ; price. No. 1, £4
123. 6d.; 2 (size exhibited), £5 123. 6d. ; 3, £6 15s.; stand
£1 Is. extra; a flour dressing machine, manufactured by W.
Norwood, of London, price £2 2s. ; a hand seed drill, manu-
factured by Hunt, of Earl's Colue, Essex, price £1 123. 6d.;
a farmer's steaming apparatus, invented by John Medworth
and W. P. Stanley, of Peterborough, and manufactured by W.
P. Stanley, of Peterborough, price £14 ; a portable poultry
house and yard, manufactured by W. Stower, of London, price
£7 7s. ; two registered poultry troughs and fountains, price 1 Os.
and 15s., and a poultry trough, price 2s. 3d. ; a half circular
poultry trough, price 4s. 6d., and a quarter circle poultry trough,
price 33, both manufactured by Barnard and Bishop, of
Norwich ; a 2-^ inch and 3^- inch long barrel patent lift pump,
price £2 and £2 I83. ; several specimens of patent lift pumps,
invented and manufactured by John Warner and Sons, of 8,
Crescent, Jewin-street, London, price £1 15s. to £5 16s.; a
small wood tub garden engine, price £5 15s.; a twelve inch
alaruna bell in iron frame, price £5 5s. ; a fourteen gallon gal-
vanized iron tub garden engine, price £4 15s.; a conservatory
pump, with patent spreader, price £110s. ; several conserva-
tory syringes, all manufactured by John Warner and Sons, of
8, Crescent, Jewin-street, London, price 78. 6d. to I63. ; a
metal hen coop, invented by Joseph Hardmeat, of Lynn, and
manufactured by Robert Hunt, of London, price 128. Gd. ; two
wire feed guards and feeders for chickens, manufactured by
Robert Hunt, of London, price 4a. 6d. to 63. 6d. ; a portable
hens' nest, price 63. 6d. ; a hopper feeder for corn for poultry,

price 53. 6d. ; a lime box for poultry, price 33. 6d., and a zinc
conical fountain for water for poultry, invented by Joseph
Hardmeat, of Lynn, and manufactured by G. Hunt, of London,
price 3s. tid. ; a zinc conical fountain, manufactured by G.
Hunt, of Loudon, price Is, 6d. to 2s. 6d. ; a circular cast iron
poultry trough, iuven'ed and manufactured by Barnard and
Bishop, of Norwich, price 63. ; an economical feeding trough,
invented by Joseph Hardmeat, of Lynn, and manufactured by
G. Hunt, of London, price Ss. 6d.; and a box of models and
papers.

Frederick J. Wilson, of 32, Cadogan-place, Chelsea,
Middlesex.

A patent cottage allotment and coal barrow, price SI.; two
garden and stable barrows, price 21. 6s. and £2 2s , and a
general purposes navvy barrow, price £2, all invented by the
exhibiter.

Matthew Gibson and Son, of Newcastle-upon-Tyne.

A revolving cultivator or grubber, for cleaning, aerating, and
pulverizing the soil, price £21 ; and (new implement) a re-
volving subsoiler, for stirring the subsoil without bringing it
to the surface, invented by Robert Hall, of Prudhoe, North-
umberland, improved by M. Gibson, and manufactured by the
exhibiters, price £20 ; (new implement) a two horse cultivator
or grubber, price £4 IO3.; and two improved Northumberland
clod crushers, to one of which was awarded a nrize medal at
the Exhibition of all Nations at London in 1851, and was
commended at Gloucester in 1853, price £17 lOs. and .£15
lOs., all invented and improved by Matthew Gibson, and
manufactured by the exhibiters.

Freeman Roe, of 70, Strand, London.

An hydraulic ram, improved and manufactured by the ex-
hibiter, price £l5 153. ; a farm fire engine, price £12 12s. ; a
garden engine, price £4 10s. ; a liquid manure distributor,
price £2 10s.; a common pump, price £1 153, and a liquid
manure pump, with suction 70 feet long, price £3 5s , all ma>
nufactured by the exhibiter ; a milk syphon, invented by Lord
Camoys, and manufactured by the exhibiter, price 9d. ; a sluice
valve, 3 inches in diameter, price £2 14s., and an hydrant or
fire plug, with stand pipe, invented and manufactured by the
eshibiler, price £3 17s. 6d.; a lift pump, manufactured hy the
exhibiter, price £3 15s. ; garden hose of various kinds, with
jet and spreader, price from 6d. per foot, jet and spreader from
73. 6d. ; a Scotch cart, manufactured by G. and C. Tiller, of
Damerham, Wilts, price £14, and a model ram with cisterns
and pipe, manufactured hy the exhibiter, price £4 43.

Holmes and Sons, of Prospect-place Works, Globe-
lane, Norwich.

A six horse power improved portable steam engine, price
2101., if with wooden wheels 51. extra ; an improved portable
combined thrashing or bolting, straw shaking, riddling,
winnowing, and chaffing tnacliine (to this machine the first
prize medal at the Great Exhibition was awarded), price 951.,
and a five horse power improved portable steam engine, im-
proved and manufactured by the exhibiters, price 190^.; an
improved thrashing, straw shaking, and riddling machine,
price 63L; a small occupation corn and seed drilling machine,
price 151. 4s. ; the Bath and West of England Society's prize
economical manure, mangel wurzel, and turnip drilling ma-
chine (to this drill the Bath and West of England Society's
prize was awarded at Taunton, 1852, and at Plymouth, 1853),
price 14Z. ; an improved four- row lever manure, mangel, and
turnip seed drilling machine, price 20Z. ; the prize manure dis-
tributor, price 131. IO3. ; an improved steerage horse hoe, price
5/. lOs., and two corn dressing or winnowing machines, in-
vented, improved, and manufactured by the exhibiters, price
101. lOs. and 51. IO3.; an improved chaff cutting engine, im-
proved and manufactured by the exhibiters, price 11/. ; a one-
row lever hand mangel wurzel and turnip drilling machine,
invented, improved, and manufactured by the exhibiters,
price 11. 178. 6d.

Bernhard Samuelson, of Banbury, Oxford.

Six sizes of Samuelson's patent Gardner's turnip cutter, for
cattle and sheep (double action), invented by the late James
Gardner, of Banbury, improved by Alexander Samuelaon, of

130

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

Banbury, and manufactured by the exhibiter (this imple-
ment obtained the prize medal at the Great Exhibition of
1851, and the 51. prize at the Royal Agricultural Society's
show at Lewes in 1852), price from 31, 19s. to 61. ; two patent
turnip cutters, invented by Edmund Moody, late of Maiden
Bradley, improved by Hugh Carson, of Warminster, and
manufactured by the exhibiter, price Al. 8s. each ; a Samuel-
son's patent forking or digging machine, invented and manu-
factured by the exhibiter, price al; Banbury, 24L lOs. ; a
rising mouth chaff cutter for hand power, manufactured by
the exliibiter, price 31. I63.; two sizes of Richmond's improved
No. 1 A chaff cutting machines, manufactured by Messrs.
Richmond and Chandler, of Salford, price 71- and il. 10s. ; a
universal crushing or bruising mill, invented by the late Mr.
Stratton, of Bristol, improved and manufactured by the ex-
hibiter, price 51. 4s. 6d. ; a beau splitting mill, invented, im-
proved, and manufactured by the exhibiter, price 21. ; an oil
cake breaker, manufactured by the exhibiter, price 2L 3s. ; a
five tine horse hoe, price 31. 6s. 6J., and a three tine horse
hoe, invented by AVilliam Busby, of Bedale, and manufactured
by the exhibiter, price 21. 13a. ; two sizes of Anthony's patent
American churn, invented by Charles Anthony, of Pittsburg,
United States, improved by W. Burgess, of London, and
manufactured by the exhibiter (it took a silver medal at the
Society's meeting at Exeter, a prize medal at the Great Ex-
hibition, 1851, and the 31. prize at Gloucester, 1853), price II.
15s. and 21. Os. 6d. ; a registered atmospheric churn, invented
and manufactured by the exhibiter, price II. lis. 6d. ; six sizes
of Kase's patent force and suction pump (double action), in-
vented by Kase of the United States, improved and manu-
factured by the exhibiter, price 7^.193. to 26Z. lOs.; seven
sizes of Budding's lawn mowing machine or grass cutter, with
Samuelson's registered improvements, invented by E. Budding,
of Dursley, improved and manufactured by the exhibiter, price
51. lOs. to 91. 10s.; two sizes of a garden roller, designed and
manufactured by the exhibiter, price 21. 83. GJ. and 31. ; a
patent horse hoe and turnip singler, invented by Thomas
Huckvale, of Chipping Norton, manufactured by the ex-
hibiter (a prize of 31, was awarded to this implement at
Liverpool, 1841), price with singling and hoeing blades 6Z.
15s. ; a single-row turnip drill for small occupations, invented
by G. Billing, of Haseley, manufactured by the exhibiter,
price 21. 53.; a case of patent wrought iron folding camp
stools, invented by Brown Brothers, of London, manufactured
by the exhibiter, price 10s. 6d. each ; a bundle of cast; steel
digging forks, invented and manufactured by Francis Parkes,
of Sutton ColdQeld, price from 5s. each upwards ; a cast iron
pig trough with semi- circular bottom, mannfactured by the
exhibiter, price 2s, 6ii. per running foot.

Burgess and Key, 103, Newgate- street, London.

A patent reaper, invented and maimfactured by Cyrus Hall
MeCormick, of Chicago, United States, (this implement re-
ceived the council medal at the Great Exhibition, 1851 ; the
first prize at the North Lancashire Agricultural Society, 1851;
first prize at the East Cumberland Agricultural Society at
Carlisle, 1851 ; first prize at the Great Yorkshire Show at
Sheffield, 1852 ; first prize at Durham, 1852; award of the
Driffield Farmers' Club, 1852; av/ard of the Jury appointed
at the nine days' trial of reapers at the Royal Agricultural
College at Cirencester, 1852; highly commended at the Royal
Agricultural Society's trial of reapera at Pusey, 1853), price
£30 ; seven sizes of a patent churn (American), invented by
C. J. Anthony, of Pittsburg, United States, improved and
mannfactured by the exhibiters, (received the Society's prize at
all their meetings since its introduction in 1850), price £2 2s.
to £3 2s. ; six sizes of a patent lift and force pump, invented
by C. A. Kase, of America, improved and manufactured by the
exhibiters, price £14 14s. to £25 ; two lift pumps, invented,
improved, and manufactured by the exhibiters, price £3 and
£4 4s. ; a patent lift and force pump, invented by Robert
Urwin, of Stepney, manufactured by the exhibiters, price £12
123.; three bundles of five-tined, four-tined, and three-tined
digging forks, invented and manufactured by Francis Parkes,
of Birmingham (awarded the prize of the Royal Agricultural
Societ^r, and numerous others), price, each fork, 63. 6d., 63.,
and 4s.; a bundle of hay forks, price, each fork. Is. 9d. and
upwards, and a bundle of pitching forks, invented and im-
proved by Francis Parkes, price, each fork, 4s. 9d. and upwards;
an assortment (one of each) of forks of every kind, price, each

fork, 3s. and upwards ; a bundle of steel spadea, price 4s. 6d.
and upwards, and two complete sets of draining tools, invented
and manufactured by Parkes, of Birmingham, price £1 lOs.
and £1 15s. ; (new implement). Grant's patent American
winnowing machine and blower, invented by Grant, U. S. of
America, manufactured by Barrett, Exal!,and Co., of Reading,
price £7 lOs.; a farm fire engine, mvented by Kase of America,
improved and manufactured by the exhibiters, price £25 ;
coils of different size patent corrugated gutta percha suction
pipes, invented by William Burgess, of Loudon, manufactured
by the Gutta Percha Company, of London, price 3s. per foot and
upwards ; coils of gutta percha tubes of various sizes, invented
and manufactured by the Gutta Percha Company, prices from 5d.
per foot to Is. lid. ; coils of flax tubing, of various sizes, woven
without saam to stand great pressure, invented by B. Brown,
manufactured by Waithman, of Bentham Mills, prices Is. to
23. 6d. per yard ; a length of corrugated suction, covered vfith
canvas, invented by W. Burgess, of London, manufactured by
the Gutta Percha Company, of London, price, per foot, Ss. 3d. ;
three sets of patent four-beam diagonal iron harrows, invented
by Lawrence Taylor, of Cotton End, improved and manufac-
tured by William Williams, of Bedford (these harrows obtained
a prize at the meeting of the Royal Agricultural Society at
Derby, 1843; at Southampton, 1844; at Shrewsbury, 1845 ;
at Northampton, 1847 ; at Norwich, 1849; at Exeter, 1850;
the prize medal was also awarded for these harrows at the
Great Exhibition of 1851 ; also a prize at Lewes meeting,
1852 ; also at Gloucester, 1853), price £3 Ss. to £4 4s. ; a
machine for making drain pipes and tiles, invented by Sanders
and Williams, of Bedford, improved and manufactured by
William Williams, of Bedford (a prize of £25 was awarded to
this machine at the meeting of the Royal Agricultural Society
at Northampton, 1847 ; and at Dublin, 1851), price £17 17a.;
four sizes of a small chaff engine, with two knives, price £3 to
£12 12s., and a chaff engine, with three knives, invented, im-
proved, and manufactured by William Williams, of Bedford,
price £14 14s.; a patent horse rake, invented by Samuel
Taylor, of Cotton End, improved and manufactured by William
Williams, of Bedford (a prize was awarded to this implement
at the meeting of the Royal Agricultural Society at South-
ampton, 1844 ; also at Norwich, 1849 ; and at the Royal
Agricultural Improvement Society of Ireland meeting at Dublin,
1851), price £7 10s.; a combined expanding horse hoe, scarifier,
and moulding plough, improved and manufactured by William
Williams, of Bedford, price £4 10s.; three sizes of a patent
wrought-iron plough, with two wheels, suitable for two horses,
improved and manufactured by William Williams, of Bedford,
price £4 to £5 lOs. ; (new implement), a patent revolver or
liq\iid-manure and water cart, invented and manufactured by
CoUinson Hall, of Prince's Gate, Navestock, Essex, price £25;
(new implement), a portable steam engine, adapted for self-
locomotion, invented and manufactured by Thomas Charlton,
of Stratford, Essex, price £450 ; two garden syringes, invented
and manufactured by Tylor and Sons, Warwick-lane, price £1
5s. and £1 ISs. ; a grain cradle, invented by J. G. Grant, of
Junction, United States, price £1 53. ; a bundle of five-tined
digging forks, price 63; Cd. each, and a bundle of four-tined
digging forks.price 63. each; a bundle of forks, prices from 4s. 6d.
upwards; a bundle of steel spades, prices from 4s. 6d. upwards,
and a bundle of tools, various, all invented by F. Parkes, of
Birmingham, prices from 3s. 6d. upwards ; a suction pipe, in-
vented by W. Burgess, of London, and manufactured G. P
Company, of London, price £1 Ss. ; a roll of leather hose,
price, two- inch in diameter, 2s. 6d. per foot; a brass jet for
delivery, price £1 123.; a set of guttapercha pails, manufac-
tured by the Gutta Percha Company, London, prices from 63.
Gd. upwards.

Richard Rea.d, of 35, Regent Circus, Piccadilly,
London.

A pateut subsoil pidverizer, invented by the late John Read,
of 35, Regent Circus, manufactured by the exhibiter (a prize
of £10 was awarded for this implement at Southampton in the
year 1844, at Shrewsbury in 1845, at Newcastle-on-Tyne in
184G, and at Northampton in 1847, price £5 5s.; two patent
double action agricultural fire-engines complete, invented and
manufactured by the exhibiter, price £18 18s. and £45 ; apateut
watering engine, invented, improved, and manufactured by the
exhibiter, price £7 10s,; a patent injecting instrument, and
tube complete, for horses, cattle, &c., invented by the late John

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

131

Read, improved aud manufactured by the exhibiter (this in-
strument was highly commended by the judges at the Lewes
meeting-, July, 1852), price £2 lOs. ; two sizes of a hollow
prohang, for relieving hoven or choked cattle, &c., invented,
improved, and manufactured by the exhibiter, price 10s. and
£] lOs. ; a patent hand v/atericg machine (this machine was
highly commended by tbe judges at the Lewes meeting, 1852),
price £2 123. 6d., and a patent double action greenhouse pump,
invented, improved, and manufactured by the exhibiter (this
machine was highly commended by the judges at the Glou-
cester meeting, July, 1853), price £4 10s.; (uew implement),
a patent machine to reduce roots to a pulp (for steam-power),
invented and manufactured by Messrs. Nye and Gilbert, of 79,
Wardour-street, London, price £7 7s. ; a patent mincing ma-
chine, for mincing meat, vegetables, and other substances,
invented and manufactured by Messrs. Nye and Gilbert, of 79,
Wardour-street, price £2 10s.

William Smith, of Kettering, Northamptonshire.

An improved double-blasted winnowing machine, price £13
ISs. ; two sizes of an improved steerage horse-hoe with double
bar, price £6 10s. and £7, with lever affixed £1 extra ; an im-
proved steerage horse-hoe with single bar, price £5 10s., and a
two-horse scarifier or skim plough, all invented, improved, and
manufactured by the exhibiter, price £5.

Bahrett, Exall, and Andrews, near Reading,
Berks.

A sLx-horse power improved portable steam engine, invented,
improved, and manufactured by the exhibiters (this engine ob-
tained the commendation of the Royal Agricultural Society of
England at Exeter, the prize medal of the Great Exhibition of
All Nations, aud the prize of 201. of the Royal Agricultural
Society of England held at Lewes), price, if with wood wheels,
210/.; an eight-horse ditto, price 240?. ; (new implement) an
eight-horse power horizontal fixed steam engine, price 186/., if
erected 12/. extra; an eight-horse power cylindrical steam
engine (this engine obtained the first prize of 20/. at the Royal
Agricultural Society's show held at Lewes in 1852), price, in-
cluding boiler, but exclusive of connections between engine
and boiler, 186/. ; (new implement) a six-horse power portable
combined thrashing machine, price 88/. ; (new implement) a
new portable combined thrashing machine, for thrashing, dress-
ing, and weighing the corn for market, price 120/. ; a three-
horse power patent iron thrashing machine aad patent horse
gear, price 40/. 173.; and a two-horse portable patent thrash-
ing machine and patent safety horse gear, price, as a fixture,
34/. 43., all invented, improved, and manufactured by the ex-
hibiters ; a pair of Derbyshire portable millstones, in iron frame
complete, invented by the exhibiters, price 42/. ISs. ; (new
implement) a steam power paragon or universal mill for crush-
ing corn, &c., price 25/.; (new implements) two sizes of a
paragon grain crushing mill, for hand power, price 5/. 10s. and
71. 7a.; (new implements) two sizes of a patent iron chaff
cutter, price 5/. and 5/, lOs.; (new implement) a patent iron
chaff cutter, for horse or steam power, price 14/. lOs. ; a bar-
ley aveller or hummeller, price 5/.; and a barley aveller, for
horse or steam power, price 71., all invented, improved, and
manufactured by the exhibiters ; a patent horse rake, for hay,
&c., invented aud manufactured by the exhibiters (it had
awarded the prize of the Great Yorkshire Society at Sheffield ;
also the first class medal of the Royal Improvement Society of
Ireland at Galway), price 7/. 12s.; a registered hay-making
machine, price \5l., aud a portable circular-saw bench, price
14/., invented, improved, and manufactured by tbe exhibiters ;
a patent subsoil plough (this plough obtained the following
prizes awarded by the Royal Agric. Society : 10/. at Southamp-
ton, Shrewsbury, Newcastle, Northampton, and York), price
5/.; a Chandler's patent liquid manure drill, invented by Mr.
Thomas Ciiandler, of Aldbourue, improved and manufactured
by Robert and John Reeves, of Bratton, near Westbury,
Wilts (the following prizes have been awarded to these drills
by the Royal Agricultural Society of England : silver medal at
York, the prize lor the best liquid manure distributor at Nor-
wich, also the prize for the same at Exeter, and the prize of
10/. for the best liquid and seed drill at Gloucester, given by
P. Pusey, Esq.), price 27/. lOs. ; aud a smaller size, price 24J.

Thomas Grimsley, df Oxford.
("New implement) a new patent brick and tile machine, in-

vented by the exhibiter, and manufactured by Charles Lam-
pett, of Banbury, Oxon, price 150/.

John Wphteiiead, of Preston, Lancashire.

A No. 0 tile machine, price 14/. 10s. ; a No. 1 tile ma-
chine (prizes were awarded for this machine at the Royal
Agricultural Society's Meeting at York, 1848, 20/.; at Nor-
wich, 1849, 20/.; at Exeter, 1850, Judges' commendation;
at the Exhibiuon of All Nations, 1851, the Prize Medal ; was
not exhibited in 1852 ; at the Royal Agricultural Society's
Meeting at Gloucester, 1853, £10 ; besides a number of prizes
at local meetings), price 21/. ; and another size, price 28/., all
invented, improved, and manufactured by the exhibiter; a
patent socketing apparatus, invented and manufactured
by the exhibiter, price 71. 7s. ; an improved brick making
and pressing machine, invented, improved, and manufactured
by the exhibiter, price 6/. 16s. ; a roll of machine-made hare-
proof netting of iron wire, manufactured by the exhibiter,
prices per lineal yard from 4d. upwards ; a set of improved
cast-iron stable fittings, price 1/. 18s.; a set of iron mangers,
price Ss. and upwards ; and a set of iron hay racks, price 53.
and upwards, all manufactured by the exhibiter ; a set of
draining tools, price 1/. 123.; a mangling and wringing
machine, invented and manufactured by the exhibiter, price
3/. 15s.

James Hayes, of Elton, near Oundle, Huntingdon«
shire.

Four sizes of a grinding mill, invented, improved, and ma-
nufactured by the exhibiter, price £13 15s. to £25 lOs.

Marie Pierre Amaranthe Ferdinand Mazier,
of L'Aigle (Orne), France.

(New implement) a reaping machine, invented by the exhi-
biter, and manufactured by Lesieur, of L'Aigle, price £32.

Richard Garrett and Son, of Leiston Works, near
Saxmundham, Suffolk.

A drill for general purposes, invented, improved, aud manu-
factured by the exhibiters (prizes were awarded for this drill at
Liverpool, 1841, £10; at Derby, 1843, £30; at Southampton,
1844, £20; and a medal at Northampton, 1847, £15; at
Exeter, 1850, £10 ; at the Great Exhibition of 1851, included
in the award of the Council Medal; and at Gloucester, 1853,
£10), price with seven jointed levers and ten corn levers and
tins, £47 53., if with improved fore carriage steerage £4 extra ;
a drill for turnips and manure on the flat (prizes were awarded
for this drill at Cambridge, 1848, £10; at Northampton,
1847, £10; at York, 1848, £10; at the Great Exhibition of
1851 included in the award of the Council Medal; and at
Gloucester, 1853, 10/.), price complete 26/. 5s, ; a drill for
turnips and mangel wurzel with manure on the ridge, im-
])roved and manufactured by the exhibiters (prizes were awarded
for this drill at Bristol, 1842, 20/.; at Northampton, 1847,
£10; and at Norwich, 1849, 10/.), price 24/. 73. 6d.; (new
implement) a two row economical drill for turnips, mangel
wurzel, aud artificial manures on the ridge, price £19 ; a patent
drop drill for turnips and other seeds, with manure on the flat
or ridge, invented, improved, and manufactured by the exhi-
biters (prizes were awarded for this drill at Norwich, 1849,
£10; at Exeter, 1S50, £10; at Lewes, 1852, £10; and at
Gloucester, 1853, £10), price 27/.; a three row economical
seed and manure drill for turnips, &c., with manure on the flat
or ridge (prizes were awarded for this drill at Lewes, 1852,
£5, and at Gloucester, 1853, 5/.), price 14/. ; (new implement)
a three row economical drill, witii improved jointed levers, for
turnips, mangel wurzel, aud artificiil manures on the flat or
ridge, invented, improved, and manufactured by the exhibiters,
price £16 16s.; a broadcast manure distributor, invented by
IT. E. Blyth, Esq , of Sussex Farm, Burnham, improved and
manufactured by the exhibiters (a prize of £5 was awarded for
this machine at Lewes, 1852, and of 10/. at Gloucester, 1853),
price £16 lOs. ; two sizes of a patent liquid manure drill, in-
vented by Thomas Chandler, of Aldbourn, Hungerford, im-
proved and manufactured by the exhibiters, price 27/. lOs. aud
£35; a ten row lever corn and seed drill (to this drill a prize
of £10 was awarded at Norwich, 1849), price £?5 15s.; an
eleven row lever corn drill, price £31 ; and a thirteen row lever
corn and seed drill, improTed and manufactured by the exbibi-

132

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

ters, price £29 ISs. ; (new implement) a twelve row Norfolk
corn drill, price £23 10s. ; a seven row lever cora and seed
drill (a prize of lOl. was awarded for this drill at Exeter in
1850, aud of 5/. at Lewes in 1852), price 17/. lOs. ; a five row
turnip, mangel wurzel, and vegetable seed diill, invented, im-
proved, aud manufactured by the exhibiters (a prize medal was
awarded for this drill at Gloucester, 1853, price £17 lOs.; a
patent liquid aud manure drill, invented by W. C. Spooner,
Esq., of Eliug House, Southampton, manufactured by Tasker
Powie, of Andover, price £35 10s.; ahorse power seed engine,
price £18; and a hand barrow drill, invented, improved, and
manufactured by the exhibiters, price £4 ; (new implement) a
mauure distributor, invented by Mr. Hastings, of Longhara,
Norfolk, manufactured by the exhibiters, price £10 ; a No. 5
Gdrreti's patent horse hoe (prizes were awarded for this imple-
ment at Liverpool, 1841, 5/. ; at Bristol, 1842, 10/. ; at Derby,
1843, a medal; at Southampton, 1844, a medal; at North-
ampton, 1847, a medal; at York, 1848, a medal; at Norwich,
1849, 10/. ; at Exeter, 1850, 10/. ; at the Great Exhibition
of 1851, council medal; at Lewes, 1852, 10/. ; and at Glou-
cester, 1853, £10), price 17/. lOs. ; and a No. 9 Garrett's pa-
tent horse hoe, invented, improved, and manufactured by the
exhibiters, price 23/. 10s. ; a patent revolving horse hoe, in-
vented by John Martin, of Barmer, near Eakenham, improved
aud manufactured by the exhibiters, price 31/. 10s. ; a patent
horse hoe aud turnip thinner on the ridge and flat, invented by
Thomas Huckvale, of Chipping Norton, improved aud manu-
factured by the exhibiters (a prize of 3/. was awarded for this
implement at Liverpool in 1841), price 6/. ; a patent fixed com-
bined thrasliiag machine, for steam power, invented, improved,
and manufactured by the exhibiters (this machine obtained
prizes at Lewes, 1852, 20/.; at Norwich, 1849, 25/.; in the
Great Exhibition of 1851 was incliified in the award of the
council medal ; and at Gloucester, 1853, prize medal), price 72/.;
a patent portable combined thrashing machine, for steam power,
pace 110/. ; a patent portable combined open drum thrashing
machine for steam power, price 85/. 10s.; a portable combined
thrashing machine, for steam power (the prize of 25/. was
awarded for this machine at Norwich in 1849, and it was in-
cluded in the award of the council medal of the Exhibition,
1851), price 66/. ; a four horse power open drum thrashing
machine (this machine obtained the prize of 20Z. at the Lewes
Meeting in 1852), price 61/.; a two horsepower portable
thrashing machine barn work (this machine obtained the prize
of 10/. 8t the Lewes Meeting in 1852, price 40/.; a four horse
power bolting thrashing machine (prizes were awarded for this
machine at Newcastle, 1846, 25/. ; at Northampton, 1847, 20/.;
aud at York-, 18i8, 20/.), price 33/.; and a corn dressing
machine, fitted with a rotary corn separator, all invented, im-
proved, and manufactured by the exhibiters, price 25/. ; a
barley aveller or hummelling machine, improved and manu-
factured by the exhibiters, price 10/.; a set of corn elevators.
With maiu driving shaft aud pulleys, invented, improved, and
manufactured by the exhibiters, price 50/. ; an improved self
acting weighing apparatus, price 7/. 73. ; a seven horse power
portable steam engine, price complete 235/. ; a six horse power
improved portable steam engine, price 234/.; a five horse power
portable steam engine (a prize of 50/. was awarded for this
engine at Norwich, 1819, and it was included in the award of
the council medal, at the Great Exhibition of 1851), price com-
plete 200/. ; an eight horse power fixed steam engine, price
210/. ; a powerful mill, on an improved principle, for crushing
bones, coprolite, &c., to be driven by steam power, price with
driving pulley and hopper complete 90/. ; and a circular saw
bench, price 25/., all improved and manufactured by the exhi-
biters ; a corn dressing machine, price 8/. 10s., and a corn
dressing machine, fitted with powerful blast, invented, improved,
and manufactured by the exhibiters, price 14/. ; a linseed, malt,
Bi:d oat crusher, price 11/. lOs. ; a rape aud linseed cake
crusher, price 11/., a smaller size 4.1. 15s.; a chaff cutter for
horse or steam power, price 15/.; a chaff cutter for horse
or hand power, price 11/.; and a chaff cutter for hand
power, all improved aud manufactured by the exhibiters, price
71. ; an improved turnip cutter, adapted for either hand, horse,
or steam power, price 71. ; (new implement) a Garrett's im-
proved reaping machiue, invented, improved, and manufactured
by the exhibiters, price 35/.; an Atkin's automaton or self-
raking reaping machine, invented by Jearum Atkins, of Chi-
cago, Illinois, United States, improved and manufactured by
the eshibiiera, price 50/, ; an improved corn reaping machine,

invented by Obed Husse)', of Baltimore, United States, im-
proved and manufactured by the exhibiters (this machine had a
silver medal awarded it at Lewes, 1852), price 21/.

John Keable, of Lamboura, near Hungerford, Berks.

Two sizes of a registered guard frame pig trough, invented
by the exhibiter, and manufactured by Arthur Silcock, of
Chippenham, Wilts, price 1/. 15s. and 21. 15s.

William Pacey, of Lincoln.

A set of one-horse harrows, price 21. ; a set of two-horse
harrows, price 21. 5s. ; a set of one-horse harrows, price 1/.
15s. ; a set of two horse harrows, price 21. ; a set of three-
horse harrows, price 21. 5s. all invented and manufactured by
the exhibiter.

William Pierce, of Cannon-house, Queen-street,
Cheapside, London.

(New implement) a reaping machine, invented, improved,
and manufactured by Obed Hussey, of Baltimure, United
States, price 21/. ; (new implement) a steel mill, invented and
manufactured by Thomas Buxton, of Malton, Yorkshire, price
10/. 10s. ; a corn bruiser, invented, improved, and manufac-
tured by Richmond aud Chandler, of Sallord, Manchester,
price 5/. 5s. ; a corn crusher, improved and manufactured by
K. Porshaw and Co., of Liverpool, price 6/. lOs. ; a corn
crusher, invented and manufactured by Messrs. Whitmee and
Co., of London, price 71. ; three sizes of a small chaff-cuting
machiue, invented by John Cornea, of Barbridge, Cheshire,
aud improved and manufactured by James Cornes, of Bar-
bridge, Cheshire, price 3/. 6s. to 6/. 15s. ; a new turnip cutter
and root slicer, with cylindrical motion, price 5/. lOs. ; and. a
turnip cutter with vertical motion, both invented and manu-
factured by John Kealy, of 369, Oxford street, London,
improved by Evan Davis, of London, price 4/. 4s. ; a rotary
screening machine, invented and improved by Alexander K.
Smith, of Exeter, manufactured by Francis Arding, of Ux-
bridge, price 6/.6s. ; several sets of stable fittings, invented,
improved, and mjnufactured by Samuel Hood, of Thames-
street, London, at different prices ; three new ornamental cast-
iron seats, price 2/. 23., 21. 12s. 6d. and 21. 3s.; and three
ornamental cast-iron revolving tables, invented aud manufac-
tured by Barwell and Co., of Northampton, price 1/. 14s. 6d. ;
a turnip cutter and root slicer, invented and manufactured by
John Kealy, of 369, Oxford- street, London, improved by Evan
Davis, of London, price 17/. 17s.; several ornamental rustic
flowef stands and tables, at different prices, invented and
manufactured by John Curran, of Cheshire ; four sizes of a
poultry trough, price 2s. 9d. to lOs. each ; and an improved
Norfolk pig trough, invented and manufactured by Barnard
and Bishop of Norwich, price 93. 6d. ; several bundles of steel
digging forks; invented, improved, and manufactured by
Fiancis Parkes, of Birmingham, at different prices; a patent
self-adjusting scythe, invented and improved by Boyd, of Lou-
don, manufactured by William Dray and Co., of London, price
10s. 6d.; Cogan's patent glass churns, price from 33s. each;
glass butter or pastry slabs, price from 10s. each ; and glass
tiles and slates for farm buildings, price from lOJ. to 23. each ;
Lord Camoy's sypboos for separating milk from cream, price
Is. 6d. each; Cogan's glass poultry fountains, price from 2g.
each ; glass milk pans, and a variety of dairy glass, price from
6d. to 5s. each.

John Gillam, of Woodstock, Oxfordshire.

A seed and corn separator, invented and improved by the
exhibiter (obtained a silver medal at Gloucester, July, 1853),
price 13/. 13s.

Williams and Mowle, of Egerton-street Foundry,
Chester.

A six-horse power portable steam engine, invented, im-
proved, and manufactured by the exhibiters, price 205/.

John Barker, of Dunnington, Yorks.

A burnished one-horse cart, price 18/.; a painted one-horse
eart, price 13/. 10s.; a strong one or two horse Yorkshire
cart, price 13/. 10s. ; an improved winnowing machine, price
10/. IDs. ; a deep-breasted wheel plough, price 5/.; an iron
wheel plough for general purposes, price 41, Ss. ; a light iron

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

l:?3

wheel plough for light land, price 3i. 15s. ; a double-breasted
expanding iron plough for making ridges, price 31. lOs. ; a
subsoil pulverizer, price 6/. lOa. ; a five tined drill grubber,
price 51. ; a five tined horse hoe or grubber, price 21. lOa. ; a
three tined horse hoe, price 21. ; a three sheared iron horse
hoe, price 21. 2a. ; (new implement) a parallel expanding hoise
hoe, price 41. is. ; a set of improved serpentine seed harrows,
price 31. 10a. ; a set of improved 'serpentine harrows for
general purposes, price 3Z. 10s.; a set "of atroug jointed serpen-
tine or zigzag harrows, price il. lOs. ; a pair of circular ridge
harrows, price IZ. 123. 6d. ; a set of equalizing three horse
draughts, price II. lOs. ; and a set of iron box whippletrees, all
invested, improved, and manufactured by the exhibiters, price
II. Is.

Braggins and Chester, of Banbury, Oxfordshire.

A double acting turnip cutting machine, price 4L 16s. ; and
four sizes of a single acting turnip cutting machine, all
invented by James Gardner, of Banbury, and manufactured by
the exhibiters, price 31. 7s. to il. 4s. ; two rising mouth lever
chaff cutting machines, price 31. 12s.; a bean mill, price 11.
13s. ; an oil cake breaker, price 21. 10s. ; and an atmospheric
churn, on stand, all manufactured by the exhibiters, price
1/. 12s.

Hugh Carson, of Warminster, Wiltshire.
(New implement) a Chandler's patent liquid manure or
water drill, invented by Mr. Thomas Chandler, of Aldbourne,
improved and manufactured by Robert and John Reeves, of
Bratton (the following prizes have been awarded to these
drills by the Royal Agricultural Society of England : — Silver
medal at York, 1848, prize for the best liquid manure dis-
tributor, at Norwich, 1849, prize for the best liquid manure
distributor, at Exeter, 1850, and the prize of lOZ. given by P.
Pusey, Esq., for the best liquid and seed drill, at Gloucester,
1853), price 271. lOs. ; a horse hoe and scuffling plough, price
31. 33 , and a chaff cutter (to be worked by horse or steam
power), invented, improved, and manufactured by the ex-
hibiter, price 101. 10a. ; two sizes of a chaff cutter (to be
worked by hand power), invented, improved, and manufactured
by the exhibiter, price il. lOs. and 51. 10s. ; a Moody's patent
turnip cutter, invented by Edmund Moody, late of Maiden
Bradley, improved and manufactured by the exhibiter (this
machine obtained the prize as the best turnip cutter for sheep
at the meiting of the Bath and West of England Agricultural
Society, at Taunton, 1852, and as the best turnip cutter for
cattle at the meeting of the same society at Plymouth, 1853 ;
it was also highly commended by the judges of the Royal
Agricultural Society of England at Gloucester, 1853), price
41. lOs., other sizes 4Z. 4s. and 51. ; a double cheese press, with
double lever (this press obtained the prize at the meeting of
the Batfi and West of England Agricultural Society at
Plymouth, 1853), price 5Z. ; and a single cheese press, with
double lever, both invented, improved, and manufactured by
the exhibiter, price 21. 10s.

John Cook, of Eagle, near Newark, Nottinghamshire.
A Lincolnshire wheel plough, with long mould board, in-
vented, improved, and manufactured by the exhibiter (has
taken several prizes at various ploughing-mectings in the
counties of Lincoln and Nottingham, price 31. ISs. ; a wheel
plough, with short mould hoard, manufactured by the ex-
hibiter, price 31. 3s. ; a swing plough, price 21. 73. ; a one
horse plough, price 21. 2s.; a scarifier, price 31. 15s.; a Lin-
colnshire waggon, price 36 L; a Lincolnshire plank-sided cart,
price 14Z. lOs.; and a one horse plank-sided cart, all improved
and manufactured by the exhibiter, price 131. lOs.

Robert Hunt, of Earls Colne, near Halstead, Essex.
An improved engine for drawing clover and trefoil seed,
price on wood frame for steam power 251. 5s., on iron frame
for ditto 271. 5s., if made portable for wheels and draughts 41.
43. ; a chaff engine, for steara or horse power, price 131. 13s.;
an improved chaff engine, for horse or hand power, price 12/.
Os. 6d. ; an Essex improved scythe, for mowing wheat, &c.,
price lis. 6d. ; three sizes of a hand seed drill, for drilling
turnips, mangels, &c., improved and manufactured by the ex-
hibiter, price 11. 53., 1/. lOs., and 31. 3s.; (new implements)
two sizes of a Joseph Warren's new patent expanding plough,
invented and manufactured by Joseph Warren, of Maldou,
price 21, ISa. 6d. and 31, 13s. 6d.

Clayton, Shuttleworth, and Co., of Lincoln.

A twenty horse power portable steam engine, price 4501. ;
a six horse power patent portable steam engine (this engine
received a prize of 25?. at the Royal Agricultural Society's
meeting held at Norwich, 1849, 25/. at Exeter, 1850, a prize
medal at the Great Exhibition of All Nations, 1851, and the
first prize of 20/. at the Royal Agricultural Society's meeting
held at Gloucester, 1853) price 220/.; a five horse power
patent portable steam engine, price 200/. ; a lour horse power
patent portable steam engine, price 180/.; a six horse power
fixed steam engine (this engine had the first prize of 20/.
awarded to it at the Royal Agricultural Society's meeting held
at Gloucester in 1853), price 175/. nett; an eight horse power
fixed steam engine, price 210/. ; a combined portable thrashing,
straw shaking, riddling, winnowing, chaff separating, and
barley horning machine (this machine was exhibited at the
Royal Agricultural Society's meeting held at Lewes, 1852,
and had a prize of 20/. awarded to it), price 95/. ; a combined
portable thrashing, straw shaking, riddling, winnowing, chaff
separating, and barley horning machine, price 95/. ; a set of
fixed barn works (a silver medal and 10/. were awarded to this
piece of machinery when exhibited at the Society's meeting
held at Lewes, 1852, and a silver medal at the Society's mett-
ing held at Gloucester, 1853), price 150/. nett; a pair of
registered portable Derbyshire millstones, driven by steam
power (this grinding mill received the prize of 10/. at the
Royal Agricultural Society's meetinir held at Norwich, 1849,
also at Exeter, 1850, and again at Gloucester, 1853), price
48/. ; a portable circular saw bench, price 15/.; a portable cir-
cular-saw bench, price 35/. ; a fixture circular-saw table, price
150/.; a portable thrashing, straw shaking, and riddling ma-
chine, and all invented, improved, and manufactured by the
exhibiters, price 65/.

Frederick Phillips, of Downtam, near Brandon,
Suffolk.
(New implements) two sizes of a patent turnip and general
root pulping machine, invented by the exhibiter, and manu-
factured by Charles Burrel, of Thetford, price 11/. lis. and
18/. 18s.

Thomas Scragg, of Calveley, near Tarporley,
Cheshire.

A single- action tile machine (the prize of 20/. was awarded
to this machine at the Lewes Show in 1852), price 16/., and
(new implement) a brick press, price 3/., both invented and
manufactuied by the exhibiter.

William Hunter, of Binbrook, near Market Rasen,
Lincolnshire.
A drill for general purposes, improved and manufactured by
the exhibiter, price 31/. 10s. ; a corn hoe for ten rows, invented
by Mr, Bourn, of Fulston, improved and manufactured by the
exhibiter, price 10/. 10s. ; a blower, price 3/. 10s., and a culti-
vator, grubber, or scarifier, price 21. 10s., both invented, im-
proved, and manufactured by the exhibiter ; and a horse-hoe
on the flat or ridge, improved and manufactured by the exhi-
biter, price 21.

Ann Simpson and Thomas Simpson, of Lincoln.

A set of steam cooking apparatus, price 16/. ; an improved
wrought-iron cylindrical boiler, price 71. ; a powerful cylindrical
steam generator, price 12/. 10s. ; au improve.! heating appa-
ratus, price 5/. ; and an improved hot water heating apparatus,
price 5/. lOs., all improved by Thomas Simpson, of Lincoln,
and mar ufactured by the exhibiters; (new implements) three
sizes of a patent pulping machine or root grater, price 3/. 10s.,
41. 10s., and 51. lOa., and (new implenient) a patent turnip
cutter, price 3/. 103., all invented and improved by R. H.
Bushe, Esq., of Glencairn, and manufactured the exhibiters ; a
set of iron harrows, price 21. 5s. ; three sets of three-beam two-
horse iron harrows, with whippletree complete, price 21. 15s.,
3/. 10s., and 3/., improved and manufactured by John Smith,
of Heighington ; two sets of strong three-beam iron harrows,
with whippletree complete, improved and manufactured by
William Covin, of Wellingore, price 3/. and 3/. 10s. ; a barley
awner or hummelling machine, invented, improved, and manu-
factured by Lucas and Wright, of Lincoln, price 4/. lOs.; a
single row drill for small occupations, improved and manufac-

134

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

tared by the exhibiters, price 21. 5a. ; several specimeng of an
irou hurdle, inauufactured by the exhibiters, price 4s. to 13s.
6d.; an iron field gate, price 11. 6s. ; a wrought iron carriage
gate, price £3 ; a wroiight iron garden gate, price 21. 5s. ; and
a pair of wrought iron gates, price 41., all improved and manu-
factured by the exhibiters ; a strong field gate with cast iron
posts, manufactured by the exhibiters, price 21. ; several coils
of galvanized wire netting, improved and manufactured by the
exhibiters, price per yard 7d. and upwards ; several lengths of
ornameutal iron fencing, manufactured by the exhibiters, price
per yard 5s. and upwards ; a pattern length of five-wired
strained wire fence, with posts and standards, price per yard
Is. 6d. ; a pattern of twisted coil-wire fencing, with improved
posts and standards, price per yard 23. 6d. ; an economical
cottage range, price 21. lOs. ; and a cottage range, price 31.
10a., invented and improved by Thomas Simpson, of Lincoln,
and manufactured by the exhibiters ; a patent prize kitchener
or cooking apparatus, invented and improved by Sidney
Havel, of Leamington, and manufactured by Sidney Flavel
and Belts, of Leamington, price 251. ; a patent prize cooking
apparatus, invented, improved, and manufactured by Henry
Goddard, of Nottingham, price 151. 15s. ; several specimens of
an improved chaff-cuttiug machine, price 4Z. lOs. to Ml. 10s.;
three specimens of a newly improved corn crasher, price from
51. 5s. to 14Z. 10s., invented, improved, and manufactured by
Richmond and Chandler, of Salford, Manchester; a Northum-
berland clod crusher, invented and improved by John Richard-
son, of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, and manufactured by John
Richardson and Son, of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, price 161. lOs. ;
a bean-cutting machine, price 3Z. ISs., and an universal mill,
price 81. Ss., invented by Biddell, and manufactured by Ran-
sorae and Sims, of Ipswich ; a Hurwood's patent metal mill on
stand, manufactured by Ran somes and Sims, of Ipswich, price
14?. 143. ; three sizes of a weighing machine, manufactured by
the exhibiters, price 21. 2s. to 31. 15s. ; two specimens of an
improved blowing machine, price 61. to 61. 10s., and a dress-
ing machine, price 12L, invented and improved by Thomas
Bartholomew, of Langton, and manufactured by Joseph Dixon,
of Lincoln ; a blowing machine, price 4.I., and a single-row
drill for drilling turnips upon ridge, price 71. 10s., invented,
improved, and manufactured by W. Edwards, of Welliugore ;
an improved turnip grubber or horae-hoe, improved and manu-
factured by the exhibiters, price 31. ; a patent lever horse-rake,
invented, improved, and manufactured by W. and J. Wright,
of Stamford, price 71. ; an improved draining level, invented,
improved, and manufactured by W. B. Webster, of Houns-
dowD, price 21. 10s. ; a set of patent spring links, invented,
improved, and manufactured by Wm. Rice, of Boston, price
from 7s. 6d. to IZ. 5s. per pair; an improved horse-hoe, in-
vented, improved, and manufactured by AVm. Walker, of West
Ash by, price 21 lOs. ; two specimens of an improved tubular
iron aud wood swathe rake, invented and manufactured by
Warren Sharman, of Melton Mowbray, and improved by Thos.
Simpson, of Lincoln, price 18s. and 11. ; an improved tubular
iron and wood swathe rake, invented, improved, and manufac-
tured by Warren Sharman, of Melton Mowbray, price 16s. 6d. ;
an improved tubular iron and wood hand rake, invented, im-
proved, aud manufactured by Warren Sharman, of Melton
Mowbray, price 3s. 6d. ; a platform weighing machine, invented,
improved, and manufactured by W. T. Avery, of Birmingham,
price il. 4s. ; a light one horse four wheeled waggon, price
261, and a wood beam wheeled plough, price 21. 2s., invented,
improved, and manufactured by Vincent Dawson, of Lincoln ;
two seta of cast steel Lincolnshire hay forks, invented, improved,
and manufactured by William Curdill, of Legsby, price 11. lOs.
andlL16s. ; a set of Lincolnshire hayforks, invented, im-
proved, and manufactured by the exhibiters, price from 5s. to
68. 6d. each, or 11. 3s. per set; a set of two swathe rakes, in-
vented, improved, and manufactured by Walker, of West
Ashby, price 15s. ; a Chubbs' patent barn or granary door
lock, price 11. lYs., and a set of Chubbs' padlocks, price 51.
lOs. per set, invented, improved, and manufactured by C.
Chubb and Sons, of St. Paul's Churchyard, London ; a seven
horse power portable steam engine, invented, improved, and
manufactured by Watkinson aud Roby, of Lincoln, price 2201. ;
two sizes of an oilcake breaking machine, invented, improved,
and manufactured by William Newzam Nicholson, of Newark-
upon-Trent, price 31. Ss. and il. 10s. ; a turnip cutting machine,
invented by the late James Gardner, of Banbury, improved
aud manufactured by Messrs. Ransomea and Sims, of Ipswich,

price 4K lOs. ; a double action turnip cutting machine,
invented by the late James Gardner, of Baubury, improved
and manufactured by Bernard Samuelson, of Baubury, price
51. lOs. ; a patent churn, invented and improved by Mr.
Drnmmond, of Stirling, and manufactured by C. D. Young
and Co., of Edinburgh, price 31. 12s. 6d.; (new implement) a
patent churn, invented, improved, and manufactured by
Philip Hunter, of Edinburgh, price IZ. 16s. ; two sizes of a
patent fire proof iron safe, invented by Thomas Milner, of
Liverpool, improved and manufactured by Thomas Milner and
Son, of Liverpool, price 51. and 71- 10s.; astrong holdfast iron
fire proof safe, invented, improved, and manufactured by Thos,-
Milner aud Son, of Liverpool, price 15 Z. ; astrong solid iron
bedstead, for farm servants, &c., manufactured by the exhibi-
ters, price 17s. 6d. ; four specimens of a strong solid iron
bedstead, manufactured by Peyton and Harlow, of Birming-
ham, price £1 6s. 6d. to £3 8s. 6d. ; a superior tubular pillar
iion bedstead, manufactured by R. W. Winfield, of Birming-
ham, price 8/. 4s. ; a set of four American hayforks, invented,
improved, and manufactured by Batchelor and Sons, of Wal-
lingford, Massachusetts, United States, price 3s., 4s , 5s. 6d.,
7s. each, or 19s. 6 d. per set of four.

Thomas Buxton, of New Malton, Yorkshire.

(New implement) a twelve inch mill, price £10 ; (new im-
plement) a nine inch mill, price £8 ; (new implement) a six
inch mill, price 6Z. ; and (new implement) a 5ft. 6in. roller or
clod crusher, for crushing clods, rolling wheat or seed land,
price ISL, all invented aud manufactured by the exhibiter,

RicHAiiD HoRNSBY and Son, of Spictlegate Iron
Works, near Grantham, Lincolnshire.
An eight horse power improved patent portable steam en-
gine, price 2551. ; a seven horse power patent portable steam
engine (this is the engine which was made for the Exhibition
of the Industry of All Nations in Hyde Park in 1851, and to
which was awarded the Great Council Medal), price 37 ol. ; two
six horse power improved patent portable steam engines (to
one of which the council medal was awarded at the Great Ex-
hibition in Hyde Park in 1851, also the first prize of 401. as
the best aud most economical engine exhibited at the Meeting
of the Royal Agricultural Society of England held at Lewes,
July, 1852; of 50L at Exeter, July, 1850; SOL at York, July,
1848; and 101. at Gloucester, July, 1853), price 220Z. each;
a four horse power improved patent portable steam engine,
price 180Z.; a ten horse power improved fixed steam engine,
price 265 Z. ; a nine horse power improved horizontal fixed steam
engine, price 240Z. ; two improved patent portable combined
thrashing, shaking, and dressing machines, price 901. and lOOZ.;
a four horse power improved portable thrashing machine, price
75Z. ; a patent corn dressing or v/iunowing machine (the coun-
cil medal was awarded to this machine at the Great Exhibition
in Hyde Park in 1851, and it has also received the first prizes
from the Eoyal Agricultural Society of England at their meet-
ings : 51. at Gloucester, July, 1853 ; lOZ. at Lewes, July, 1852;
lOZ. at Exeter, July, 1850 ; 10/. at Norwich, July, 1849; 101.
at York, July, 1848 ; aud 3Z. at Newcastle, July, 1846), price
13Z. lOs. ; an improved corn dressing machine, price 12Z. ; a
blower machine or corn rectifier, price 5Z. ; a drilling machine,
for corn and general purposes (this drill received the first prize
of lOZ. from the Royal Agricultural Society of England at the
Lewes Meeting, July, 1852; 15Z, at Norwich, July, 1849;
15Z. at York, July, 1848 ; 15Z. at Newcastle-ou-Tyne, July,
1846 ; 15Z. at Shrewsbury, July, 1845 ; lOZ. at Derby, 1843 ;
30Z. at Bristol, July, 1842; and 25Z. at Liverpool, 1841),
price 38Z. ; a patent corn and seed drill, on an impioved prin-
ciple (for this drill the exhibiters received the council medal at
the Great Exhibition in Hyde Park in 1851 ; also from the
Royal Agricultural Society of England the first prize of lOZ.
at their meeting at Gloucester, July, 1853 ; lOZ. at Lewes,
July, 1852 ; lOZ. at Exeter, July, 1850 ; aud also a prize medal
for the introduction of the patent India-rubber tubes for con-
ducting the seed to the ground, and for patented improvements
in the fore carriage steerage), price 30Z. ; an improved patent
fore carriage steerage, price 4Z. 10s. ; an improved patent corn
and seed drill, price 29Z, ; a patent small occupation corn drill,
price 18Z. ; a patent drill for turnips or mangel wurzel, with
manure (this drill received the first prize of lOZ., as the best
exhibited at the meeting of the Royal Agricultural Society of
England held at Lewes, July, 1852; of lOZ. at Exeter, July,

THE FARMER^S MAGAZINE.

135

1850 ; of 10/. at Noi-wich, July. 1849 ; and IQl. at Shrewsbury,
July, 1845), price 261. 10s. ; a two row patent ridge drill for
turnips and mangel wurzel with manure (this drill received the
council medal at the Great Exhibition, Hyde Park, in 1851,
and also the first prize of lOl. at the meeting of the Royal
Agricultural Society of England at Gloucester, July, 1853; of
lOl. at Lewes, July, 1852 ; of 10/. at Exeter, July, 1850 ; of
lOZ. at Norwich, July, 1849 ; of lOZ. at York, July, 1848; of
10/. at Shrewsbury, July, 1845; the prize medal at Derby,
July, 1843; and lOL at Liverpool, July, 1841), price 24/. ;
a patent drop drilling machine for ridges or flat ground (this
drill received the council medal at the Great Exhibition in
Hyde Park, 1851), price 28/, 10s., all the above are invented,
improved, and manufactured by the exhibiters ; a patent clod
crusher roller, invented and manufactured by W. Crosskill, of
Beverley, price 20/. ; a patent press wheel roller or clod crusher,
invented and improved by William Cambridge, of Bristol,
manufactured by the exhibiters, price 18/. ; an improved laud
pressor (this presser received the first prize of 10/. at the Royal
Agricultural Society's meeting at Northampton, July, 1847;
of 10/. at Newcastle-upon-Tyne, July, 1846 ; and of 10/. at
Southampton, July, 1844), price 8/. ; a double cake breaking
or crushing machine (this machine received the council medal
at the Great Exhibition in Hyde Park, 1851; also the first
prize of 5/. at the Lewes Meeting of the Royal Agricultural
Society of England, July, 1852 ; of 5/. at Shrewsbury, July,
1845; of 5/. at Southampton, July, 1844; of 5/. at Derby,
July, 1843), price 10/.; an improved cake breaking or crushing
machine, price 5/. 5s. ; and a single cake breaking or crushing
machine, invented, improved, and manufactured by the exhi-
biters, price 4/. 43.; a Comes' improved chaff cutting machine,
price 13/. 10s.; and a two knife Comes' improved chaff cutting
machine, price 10/. 153., invented by Comes', of Nantwich,
Staffordshire, manufactured by the exhibiters.

J. T. Knapp, of Clanfield, near Bampton, Oxfordshire.

A patent winnowing or corn dressing machine, invented by
Mr. Naton, of Alvescott, Oxon, and manufactured by the ex-
hibiter, price 14/. 14s.

Edward Hammond Bentall, of Heybridge, near
Maiden, Essex.

Several sizes of Bentall's patent iron beam broadahare and
subsoil plough (as a pair horse scarifier, a prize of 5/. was
awarded at the Show of the Royal Agricultural Society at
Exeter in 1850 ; as a cultivator, a prize medal was awarded at
the Great Exhibition of 1851 ; as a subsoil plough, a prize
medal was awarded at the Great Exhibition of 1851), prices
various, from II. 4s. to 7/. 17s.; two of Bentall's patent man-
gel or ridge hoe, price 21. 'Js. and 21. Vis. 6d. ; a set of four
horse, three horse, and two horse whippletrees, manufactured
by the exhibiters, price lis., 1/, 23., and 1/. lis. 6d.; a hand
turnip cutter for sheep and beasts, improved and manufactured
by the exhibitor, price 1/. lis. 6d.; a Bentall's oilcake mill,
invented and manufactured by the exhibitor, price 21. 23. ; a
small chaff cutter, improved and manufactured by the exhibiter,
price 3/. 3s. j two oblong cattle feeding or water troughs, price
98. and Ss. ; several hog troughs and sheep trough, price 7s.
6d. to 183. ; and two stack pillars and caps, price Ss., all ma-
nufactured by the exhibiter.

James Comins, of South Molton, Devon.

A horse hoe, price 21. 23. ; a Great Exhibition prize medal
horse hoe, price 3/. ; a subsoil pulverizer (it was awarded the
prize of 5/. at the Royal Agricultural Society's meeting held
at Norwich, July, 1849), price 41. 12s. 6d. ; a paring plough
(it received the prize of the Bath and West of England Agri-
cultural Society's meeting held at Taunton, June, 1852), price
4/. 153.; (new implement) a new pattern turn wrest plough,
price 5/. 10s., and a plough for filling-in drains, all invented,
improved, and manufactured by the exhibiter, price 6/. lOs.;
two sets of whippletrees, manufactured by the exhibiter, price
4s. each.

J. Bailey Denton, of 52, Parliament- street, London.

A relief map of a drainage area, being a specimen of
mechanical modelling of a ground surface, invented, improved,
and manufactured by the exhibiter, price per acre Sa. ; (new
implement) an improved " A" level, invented and improved by

the exhibiter, manufactured by Messrs. Jones and Co., of
High Holborn, price 4/. 4s.; (new implement) outlets for main
drains, price lOs. and upwards; (new implement) inlets for
drains, price 15s. and upwards ; (new implement) wells or
sumpts (three sorts), price 1/. 23. 6d. and upwards; and (new
implement) air vents in connection with iron piping, all in-
vented by the exhibiter, and manufactured by Stanley and
Bower, of Peterborough, price from 12s.

William Procter Stanley, of Peterboiough,
Northamptonshire.
A Stanley's registered roller mill, for crushing linseed, oats,
barley, malt, gold-of-pleasure beans, and Indian corn, invented,
improved, and manufactured by the exhibiter (prizes were
awarded to this mill at the Pi.oyal Agricultural Society's show
at York, Exeter, Lewes, and Gloucester; Royal Irish Society's
shows at Gal way and Killarney ; at the Bath and West of
England's Society's show at Plymouth; and also at the fol-
lowing local shows : — Peterborough, Huntingdon, Wisbech,
Boston, Lincoln, North Stafford, North Lancashire, North-
umberland, Durham, Cleveland, Brigg, Liverpool, Manchester,
Preston, Farnhani, and Yorkshire; also the reward of a
medal at the Royal Exhibition of 1851), price 13/.; three
specimens of a Stanley's registered roller mill, price 6/., 8/.,
and 16/. lOs. ; a Stanley's oat, bean, and universal null, price
4/. 4s. ; three sizes of Stanley's registered farmer's steaming
apparatus (prizes were awarded to this apparatus at the Royal
Agricultural Society's shows at York, Exeter, Norwich, Lewes,
and Gloucester ; Royal Irish show at Galway and Killarney ;
Bath and West of Englajid Society's show at Plymouth ; and
at the following local shows : — Peterborough, Huntingdon,
Wisbech, Northampton, Boston, North Stafford, Lincoln,
Brigg, North Lancashire, Liverpool, Manchester, Northumber-
land, Durham, Cleveland, and South Lancashire), price 12/.
lOs. to 35/. ; and two of Stanley's improved chaff machines,
invented, improved, and manufactured by the exhibiter, price
3/. 3s. and 11/.; a Bentall's iron beam broadshare and subsoil
plough, cultivator, or scarifier, combined in one, invented, im-
proved, and manufactured by E. and H. Bentall, of Heybridge
(the prize of 5/. was awarded to this implement at the meeting
of the Royal Agricultural Society at Exeter, also at Gloucester,
Killarney, Roval Irish Society's at Galway, and the Bath and
West of England Society's show at Plymouth, as the best
pair-horse scarifier ; a prize medal was awarded to it at the
Great Exhibition as a cultivator, and at the same time a prize
medal to the same implement as a subsoil plough), price 5/.
5s.; a Stanley's improved vertical dash churn, manufactured
by the exhibiter, price 71. ; three sizes of Cambridge's patent
press wheel roller and clod crusher, invented by Mr. Cam-
bridge, of Bristol, improved and manufactured by the ex-
hibiter (a prize of 5/. was awarded it at Preston for preventing
the ravages of the wircworm and slug, a prize at Exminster
for rolling pasture or meadow land, ditto at Exeter for pre-
paring turnip land for barley, at North Lincolnshire for clod
crushing, at Edinburgh for producing good crops of swede
turnips, &c., and at many other local societies for its general
uses), price from 11/. to 14/. lOs. ; a cast cylinder land roll,
in three parts, price 8/., and a wrought cylinder land roll, in
two parts, manufactured by the exhibiter, price 7/.; a Stanley's
wheel roll, invented by Mr. Gilson Martin, of Goose Tree
Farm, March, Cambridgeshire, manufactured by the exhibiter,
price 18/. lOs.

Warren Sharman, of Melton Mowbray, Leicester-
shire.
Several pairs of registered tubular iron hand hay or corn
drag rakes, price 8s. 6d. to 163. 6d. each; and {new imple-
ments) several bundles, containing half-a-dozen of registered
tubular iron twitch or stubble rakes, invented, improved, and
manufactured by the exhibiter, price 33. each and upwards ;
three bundles of sheet iron root or chaff scuttles, price 2s. 6d.
each and upwards ; several bundles of sheet iron corn or chaff
scuttles, price 2s. 6d. each and upwards ; (new implement)
four sizes of a poultry fountain, invented and manufactured
by the exhibiter, price 93. and upwards ; several sack trucks,
manufactured by the exhibiter, price 12s. each and upwards.

Thomas Johnson, of Leicester.

(New implement) an improved linseed cake breaking ma.
chine for beasts and sheep, price 3/. lOs., and (new implement)

136

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

ati improved moulding and ridging plough, invented, im-
proved, and manufactured by the exhibiter, price il. ; a strong
wrought iron scuffler and scarifier, price with two seta of tines
4.1AS.; an improved turf and stubble paring plough.inveuted and
manufactured by theexhibiter, prices/. lOs.jamachine for crush-
ing malt, invented, improved,and manufactured by the exhibiter,
price 61. ; a cast iron stack pillar, with spike at top, price 6s.;
a strong wrought iron wheelbarrow, price II. 43.; a cast iron
circular revolving pig trough with five divisions, price 10s. 6d.,
a ditto with six divisions, price 15s. 6d., and a ditto with eight
divisions, all manufactured by the exhibiter, price 17s. 6d. ;
(new implement) a hand seed drill for turnips and mangel
wurzel, price 4.1. ; and (new implement) a drill for ground or
dissolved bones, and all kinds of artificial and pulverized
manures, invented and manufactured by William Goulding, of
Leicester, price 4Z. 10s. ; a portable iron mangle, with hori-
zontal spring pressure and mahogany linen press, invented
and mauufactured by E. O. Tiudall, of Scarboro', price 51.
15s. ; (new implement) a patent diagonal churn, invented and
manufactured by Lorenzo Tindall, of Scarboro', price from 21.
upwards; a contracting weighing machine, invented and
mauufactured by W. and T. Avery, of Birmingham, price 31.
10s.; several weighing machines, price IL ISs. and upwards;
a twenty-atone set of improved iron weights (adjusted and
stamped), price IZ. Ss. 6d.; and several ornamental cast iron
rustic garden chairs, manufactured by the exhibiter, price II.
12s. 6d. and upwards; an ornamental cast iron hall table, price
31. 12s. 6d.; a handsome cast iron hat, coat, and umbrella
stand, price 21. 3s., and an ornamental cast iron vase and
pedestal with loose earthenware pot, designed and manufac-
tured by the Coalbrookdale Company, price 4/ 15s.; a large
cast iron vase, price 21., and an ornamental cast iron hall
chair, manufactured by the exhibiter, price ISs. ; two orna-
mental cast iron hall chairs, price 11. 7s. 6d., and a massive
cast iron Berlin black door scraper, with brushes, designed
and manufactured by Marsh and Son, of Dudley, price II. 2s. ;
an ornameutal circular cast iron table, with massive pedestal,
designed and manufactured by the exhibiter, price IZ. 14s. ;
a black register grate, with ground front and ornamental
back, price IZ. 15s.; a cast iron Berlin black fender, with
bright top aud standards for fire-irons, price 11a. 6d., and a
black register grate, with ground canopy front, ornameutal
iron back, manufactured by the exhibiter, price 21. 48.

James and Frederick Howard, of Bedford.

Several specimens of the famous patent iron plough with
two wheels (marked P No. 2), invented aud manufactured by
the exhibiters, price £4 5s. aud upwards ; a patent iron plough
with two wheels (marked I A No. 1), invented and manufac-
tured by the exhibiters, price £4 5s., with skim coulter 5s.
extra (thia is the exhibiters' original " Champion" plough, which
gained nine first premiums at the annual meetings of the Royal
Agricultural Society); a patent iron Kentish plough with two
wheel (marked PPP). price £6 ; two kinds of a patent double-
furrow plough, price £7 73. ; two improved Northumberland
ridge or double-breast ploughs, price £3 15s. and £4 5s. and
a patent subsoil plough, or subsoil pulverizer, invented and
mauufactured by the exhibiters, price £6 lOs. (the Royal Agri-
cultural Society awarded the first prize of £5 to this imple-
ment at Gloucester, 1853) ; a Read's patent sub-pulverizer, or
subsoil plough, invented by the late John Read, of Loudon,
improved and manufactured by the exhibiters, price £5 53.
(the following premiums have been awarded to this implement
by the Rojal Agricultural Society : the firJt prize of £10, at
the Smthamptou meeting, in 1844; the first prize of £10, at
the Shrewsbury meeting, 1845 ; the first prize of £10, at the
Newcastle-on-Tyne meeting, in 1846 ; the first prize of £10,
at Northampton, 1847; and the first prize of £5, at the
Exeter meeting, 1850) ; several seta of new patent jointed iron
harrovrs, invented by James Howard and W. Armstrong, of
Bedford, and manufactured by the exhibiters, price from £3
10s upwards (the following premiums have been awarded by
the Royal Agricultural Society of England : Derby meeting,
1844, first prize of £5 ; York meeting, 1818, first prize of £5;
Exeter meeting, 1850, first prize of £5 ; Lewes meeting, 1852,
first prize of £5 ; and the first prize of £5 at the Gloucester
meetiug, 1853) ; an improved wrought-iron scarifier, invented
and mauufactured by the exhibiters, price £7 ; a set of im-
proved trussed whippletrees, invented by Egerton Harding,
Esq., and manufactured by the exhibiters, price lis. 6d.; two

sets of improved equalizing whippletrees, price £1 68. each,
and three sizes of an improved one-rowed horse hoe, invented
aud mauufactured by the exhibiters, price from £2 15s, to £3
(the Royal Agricultural Society awarded the prize to this im-
plement at Lewes, 1852, and at Gloucester, 1853) ; two sizes
of a patent horse rake, invented and manufactured by the ex-
hibiters, price £8 lOs. to £10 lOs. (the Royal Agricultural
Society awarded the prize to this implement at Exeter, 1350,
and again at Lewes, 1852 ; at the Great Exhibition of All
Nations, Messrs. H. also gained the prize medal for this im-
plement) ; two sizes of an improved Bedfordshire one-horse
cart, price £11 lis. and £14 5s., and samples of improved
plough-wheels and case-hardened shares.

Selby Hand, of Glinton, near Market Deeping, Lin-
colnshire.

A chaff-cutting machine, for horse power, price £12 123.,
and a chaff-cutter, for one, two, or three men, invented by
Comes, improved aud manufactured by the exhibiter, price
£10 ; a chaff-machine, improved and manufactured by the ex-
hibiter, price £2 16s.; two sizes of a scarifier or cultivator,
invented by Coleman, of Chelmsford, improved and manu-
factured by the exhibiter, price £8 lOs. and £11 10s. ; (new
implement), a cake breaker and corn crusher combined,inven ted
and manufactured by the exhibiter, price £8, or either
separate £4 ; an iron plough, improved and manufactured by
the exhibiter, price £4.

Charles Hart, of Vale of White Hoi'se Iron Works,
near Wantage, Berks.

A pair horse scarifier or cultivator, price 91. 12s. 6d.; and a
seven tine cultivator, invented, improved, and manufactured
by the exhibiter, price 14L ; a six horse steam engine, invented,
improved, and mauufactured by Clayton and Co., of Lincoln,
price 230/. ; a combined seveu horse power portable thrashing
machine, &c., price 120Z. ; and a five horse power combined
portable thrashing, straw shaking, aud winnowiug machine,
invented, improved, aud manufactured by the exhibiter, price
130/.

George Hunter, of Ulceby, Lincolnsliire, near Hull,
Yorkshire.
A drill, for general pxirposes, price 33/. ; a corn and seed
drill, pries 23/. : a corn and seed drill, for small or grass seeds,
price 30/.; and a small occupation drill, for seed and manure,
for flat or ridge work, price 18/. lOs., improved by Thomas
Hunter, of Ulceby, and manufactured by the exhibiter ; a two
horse cart, improved by Mr. William Torr, of Aylesby, and
manufactured by the exhibiter, price 12/. 10s. ; a turnip drill
on flat, with manure, price 21/.; (new implement) a guano
drill, for depositing the guano in the ridges, invented by
Thomas Hunter of Ulceby, improved by Wm. Torr, of Aylesby,
and manufactured by the exhibiter, price 8/. ; (new imple-
ment) a light wooden roller, invented by Wm. Torr of Aylesby,
improved and manufactured by the exhibiter, price 3/. 10s.

Joseph Lee, of Stonnall, near Walsall, Staffordshire.

A portable steam engine, invented, improved, and manufac-
tured by the exhibiter, price 170/.

Joseph Long, of Meriten's Wharf, Dockhead, London.

Thirty five casks of nonpoisonous sheep dipping composi-
tion, termed " Long's specific," price 6s. per gal.; thirty five
casks of nonpoisonous sheep dressing composition, termed
" Long's preservative," or lamb dressing, price 2a. 8d. per
gal. ; and ten cases containing two dozen bottles sheep dress-
ing composition, termed "Long's foot rot or general lotion,"
discovered and mauufactured by the exhibiter, price 2s. 6d,
per pint bottle ; a case of Long's foot rot knives, invented by
the exhibiter, and mauufactured by Messrs. Thomas Turner
and company, of SheSield, price Is. 6d. each ; twelve pouring
cans of size and shape most convenient for use, price 2s. 6d.
each ; three dressing bowls of size and shape most convenient
for use, price 23. 6d. each ; and two dressing forks of the size
and shape most convenient for use, invented and improved by
the exhibiter, price 1/. lOs. each ; a cask of artificial manure,
termed "nitro phosphate or blood manure," price 6/. per ton ;
and a cask of artificial manure, termed " concentrated night
soil and blood," manufactured by W. Swanton aud Co., of
London, price 3/. lOs. per ton,

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

137

John Paterson, of Beverley, Yorkshire.

A full size and small size patent washing, wringing, and
mangling machine, price "il. lOa. and \Ql. lOs. ; and a patent
self cleaning clod crusher, or land roller, invented and manu-
factured by the exhibiter, price 19L lOs. ; a CrosskiU's clod
crusher, improved by the exhibiter, price 5Z. lOa. ; a patent
reapidg machine, improved by Peter, of Beverley, and the ex-
hibiter, and manufactured by the exhibiter, price 35Z.

Michael Penestan, of Lincoln.

A seven horse power portable steam engine, improved and
manufactured by the exhibiter, price 175Z. ; a four horse power
portable steam engine, price 155Z.; and a portable thrashing,
shaking, riddhug, and winnowing machine, manufactured by
the exhibiter, price 70Z. ; two sizes of a Cambridge wheel roller
or clod crusher, invented by William Cambridge, of Bristol,
and manufactured by the exhibiter, price 13Z. and 16i. ; a flat
sole wheel roller, for rolling spring corn, placed one inch apart,
invented by Thomas Tapholrae, of Horncaatle, and manufac-
tured by the exhibiter, price 14i. ; two sizes of a plain iron
roller, in three parts, manufactured by the exhibiter, price Ql.
and \.2l.

William Shephard, of Hoveringham, (near Notting-
ham) Nottinghamshire.

A plough with steel breast and four shares of different sizes,
price 3Z. 16s. ; and a cart adapted for the purpose of a miller
or maltster, with patent axle, improved and manufactured by
the exhibiter, price 17?.

Smith and Ashby, of Stamford, Lincolnshire.

A Smith and Ashby's patent improved double action hay-
making machine, on Smith and Ashby's patent wrought iron
wheels, invented, improved, and manufactured by the exhi-
biters (first prizes were awarded to this implement at the
Royal Agricultural society's meeting at Newcastle, 1846, £5 ;
at the Great Yorkshire meeting, 1846, £5 Sa. ; at the Derby-
shire meeting, 1846, £5 5s. ; at the great Yorkshire meeting,
1847, £5 ; at York, 1848, the Royal Society's medal ; at the
great Yorkshire meeting, 1849, £3 3s. ; the Royal Society's
prize of £5 for the best haymaker, at the Norwich meeting,

1849 ; the Royal Society's prize for the best haymaker at
Exeter, 1850; the first prize of the North Lincolnshire So-
ciety, 1850 ; the first prize of the Royal North Lancashire,

1850 ; the first prize at the great Yorkshire, 1850 ; the prize
medal at the Great Exhibition of all nations, 1851 ; first prize
at the Bath and West of England Society's meeting at Taun-
ton', 1852 ; at the Royal Society's meeting at Lewes, 1852,
the judges' commendation (no prize being offered that year) ;
the prize of the Bath and West of England at Plymouth,
1853 ; the prize of the North Lancashire meeting at Black-
burn, 1853 ; and the medal of the Royal Society at Gloucester,
1853), price £15 15s. ; two sizes of Smith and Ashby's patent
improved horje rake (this rake took the prize medal of the
Great Exhibition of all nations, 1851, and has also taken
thirteen prizes from various agricultural societies), price £7
10s and £8 ; patent lever wheel hand rake, price £2 ; five
sizes of Smith and Ashby's exhibition prize patent safety
chaff and litter cutter, with two knives (this powerful and
effective machine received the prize medal of the Great Exhibi-
tim of 1851), price from £5 lOs. to £17; an improved prize
culiivaior, grubber, or scarifier (No. 2) (to this implement was
awarded at the meeting of the Royal Society at Newcastle,
184f), the prize medal ; ditto at Norwich, 1849, £10 ; at the
Great Yorkshire, 1849, £5 5s. ; at the Exeter meeting of the
Royal Agricultural Society, 1850, £10 ; at the great York-
shire, 1850, £5; the prize of the Royal North Lancashire,
1850 ; and at the great Yorkshire, 1852, £5). price £13 ; a
patent park or luggage cart, price £13 lOs. ; and a newly in-
vented patent one horse cart for harvest work and general
purposes, all invented, improved, and manufactured by the
exhibiters, price £11 lOs.

Edward R. Turner and Co., of St. Peter's Iron
Works, near Ipswich, Suffolk.

A four horse power horizontal cylinder fixture steam engine,
price \2Ql. ; several sizes of Turner's roller mill, for crushing
linseed, oats, malt, barley, &c., and grinding beans (obtained
the prize of 5'. for the best linseed and corn crusher at the

Royal Agricultural Society's Gloucester Show, July, 1853),
prices from 5Z. 153. upwards ; a metallic grinding mill, price
i4Z. 148.; and an oilcake breaker for foreign or English cake,
price Zl. lOs., all invented, improved, and manufactured by the
exhibiters ; an iron oilcake breaker for English cake, improved
and manufactured by the exhibiters, price 2Z. 2s.; a chaff
cutter with two convex knives, invented, improved, and manu-
factured by the exhibiters, price lOZ. lOs. ; a hand chaff cutter
with two convex knives, improved and manufactured by the
exhibiters, price 3Z. 17s. 6d. ; a small hand bem mill, price 21.
5s., and a hand roller mill, for oats, linseed, and beans, price
5Z. 15s. 6d., invented, improved, and manufactured by the ex-
hibiters.

J. Tylor and Sons, of Warwick-lane, Newgate-
street, London.

A fire engine, improved and manufactured by the exhibiters,
price complete 228Z. 15s.

William Walker, of East Bridgford, near Ratclifte,
Nottinghamshiie.

A corn and seed drill, invented, improved, and manufactured
by the exhibiter. price 46Z. lOs.

Edward Weir, of 16, Bath-place, New-road, London.

An irrigator, liquid manure pump, and fire and garden en-
gine, price 8/. 83. ; (new implement) a double cylinder irri-
gator, liquid manure pump, and fire and garden engine, price
lOZ. lOs. ; (new implement) au irrigator for steam or horse
power, price 16Z. I63.; (new implement) a hose pipe reel,
price Tl. 7s ; a draining level, price \l. lOs. ; (new implement)
a workman's pendulum level, for use in the drain, price ISs. ; t*o
descriptions of a portable wrought iron liquid manure pump,
tripod stand, and flexible pipe, price 4Z. 53. and 4Z. 15s. ; speci-
mens of canvass hose pipe for conveying liquid manure or
water, price 4d. per foot, and upwards ; (new implement) an
improved hose joint for connecting lengths of canvas hose pipe,
price 43. 6d. and upwards; and (new implement) a length of
portable wrought iron pipe for liquid manure or water, price
Is. per foot and upwards, all invented and manufactured by
the exhibiter.

James Woods, of Stowmarket, Suffolk.

Two kinds of a Gloucester broadshare and cultivator, price
6Z. I63. each, and a two horse Suffolk scarifier or skim, price
6Z. 63., improved and manufactured by the exhibiter; an im-
proved power for one horse, price 12Z. 12s. ; an improved two
horse power portable thrabhing machine, price 3tiZ. ; ami an
improved cart, price 12Z. 10s., invented, improved, and manu-
factured by the exhibiter ; three of Hall's patent new cabinet
mangles, invented by John Halls, of Bedford, and manufac-
tured by the exhibiter, price 6Z. IO3. and 8Z. lOs. ; a portable
asphalte cauldron and working tools, invented and manufac-
tured by the exhibiter, price 17Z. ; a specimen of asphalte
flooring ; an improved double roll with furrow roll, for spring
corn, price 8Z. Ss. ; and three sizes of a registered crushing
and grinding mill, price 7Z. 15s. to 13Z. 138., invented, im-
proved, and manufactured by the exhibiter ; a Comes' chaff
engine, invented by J. Comes, of Barbridge, and improved
and manufactured by the exhibiter (this article has gained the
Royal Ai;ricultural Society's prize several years in succession)
price lOZ. lOs.

William Allchin and Son, of The Globe Works,
Northampton.
(New implement), a six-horse power patent portable steam
engine, invented, improved, and manufactured by the exhi-
biters, price £215.

Francis ARDiNG,of The Albert Iron Works, Uxbridge,
Middlesex.
(New implement), four sizes of a patent combination
chaff cutting machine, price £6 63., £8 8s., £10 lOs., and £14
143., and {nf^ implement), a four-horse power portable Mono-
gram bolter thrashing and dressing machine, with patent straw
shaker attached, invented and manufactured by the exhibiter,
price £65; a corn winnowing and dressing machine, price £9
93. ; a blowing machine, price £4 lOs., and a oue-horse works
improved and manufactured by the exhiiiter, price £10 lOs. ;
(new implement), two patent beau mills, invented au manu-

138

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

faetured by the exhibiter, price £a iOa. ; a barley humraeller,
price £3 10s. ; an oil cake mill or breaker, price £2 lOs. ; a
cylindrical iron sifter, price £6 6s., and a cyliudrical iion sifter,
all improved and manufactured by the exhibiter, price £7 Vs.

John Caborn, of Denton, necar Grantham, Lincoln-
shire.
A corn dressing machine, improved and manufactured by
the exhibiter, price 131,; a two-horse power, for working cliaff-
cutting or other agricultural machinery, invented and manu-
factured by the exhibiter, price 15L

Jasper John Capper, of The Falcon Engine V/orks,
near Loughborough, Leicestershire.
A horizontal eight-horae engine, manufactured by the exhi-
biter, price laOl.; (new implement), a combined thrashing
midline, price 801., and (new implement), an improved win-
nowing and dressing machine, improved and manufactured by
the exhibiter, price 121.

Barnard and Eishop, of Norwich, Norfolk.
Several handsome specimens of strong wrought-iron garden
chairaand stools, at prices from 4s. 6d.upwards,audseveralshapes
and sizes of registered poultry troughs and fountains, invented
and manufactured by the exhibiters, price 2s. 3d. and upwards;
t'.'.'O circular cast-iron troughs for dogs, improved and manu-
factured by the eshibiters, 10 inches' diameter, price 2s. 6d.
and 33. 6d. ; several rolls of light and heavy japanned wire
netting, invented snd manufactured by the exhibiters, price,
per lineal yard, 6d. to Is. 2d., suitable for povJtry, hares, and
rabbits ; three rolls of japanned wire sparrow-proof netting,
price 3d. per superficial foot ; two rolls of galvanized wire sheep
netting, 3 feet wide, price 9d. and Is. per lineal yard ; an iron
stake for wire sheep netting, price Is.; a sample of strained
wire fencing for horses and heavy cattle, price 2s. per lineal
yard ; a three-bar iron hurdle, price 4s. ; a four-bar iron hurdle,
price 53. ; two five-bar iron hurdles, price 6s. and 6s. 6d. ; au
iron hurdle for cattle and sheep, price 8s. ; a hare and rabbit
jiroof iron hurdle, price 7s. 6d. ; an ornamental wire game
hurdle, price 5s., end au iron hurdle, all invented and manu-
factured by the exhibiters ; a wrought iron sheep-fold hurdle
on wheels, improved and manufactured by the exhibiters, price
11. Ss. ; a roll of ornamental garden border, manufactured by
the exhibiters, price 7d. per foot ; three wire net plant or tree
guards, price Is. 9d. and upwards; a rick-stand pillar of
wrought and cast-iron, price 6s. ; six double Norfolk pig-
troughs, price 23. 6d.to 16s.; nine single Norfolk pig-troughs,
price 7s. 6d. to £1 73., and au iron hutch pig-trough, made of
cast and wrought iron, invented and manufactured by the ex-
hibiters, price £2 153.; two iron pig-troughs, improved and
manufactured by the exhibii era, price 4s. and 63.; (new im-
plement), a patent turaip grater, invented by C. Bushe, Esq.,
of Lismore, and Dr. Barter, of Blarney, Ireland, improved aud
niftuufaclured by the exhibiters (obtained Royal Irish Agri-
cultural Society's tirst-elass medal at Killarney last August),
price £4 lOa. ; a patent self-rolling mangle, invented by
Charles Barnard, 01 Norwich, manufactured by the exhibiters,
price 71. 7s. ; a cottage mangle, price 31. lOa. ; a table mangle,
price 21. IO3. ; a wrought iron portable or folding bedstead,
price ] 93 , and four sizes of a cast-iroa window frame and case-
Eienr, invented and manufactured by the exhibiters, price 12s.
and upwards; several ornaoiental wrought-iron garden gates,
designed and manufactured by the exhibiters, suitable for hang-
ing on stone, wood, or iron posts, price 21. and upwards ; a
wrought-iroa fan-braced field gate, improved and manufactured
by the exhibiters, price"?.; two sizes of a si.x- bar wrought-
iron field gate, price 11. 23. and 1/. 7s., and a seven-bar strong
wrought-iron field gate, invented and manufactured by the ex-
hibiters, price 11. 2s.

Thomas Catchfool, Jan., of Colchester, Essex.

A portable thrashing, shaking, riddling, and winnowing
machine, improved and manufactured by the exhibiter, price
75?.

Humphrey Chamberlain, of Kempsey, near
Worcester.

(New implement) a patent solid brick making machine, in-
vented by the exhibiter, aud manufactured by John Jackson,
of Worcester, price ] 001. ; and a sample of bricks made by the
above machine, manufactured by the exhibiter.

TiiOMAs Chambers, Jua., of Colkirk, near Faken-
ham, Norfolk.
(New implement) a broadcast manure distributor, invented,
improved, aud manufactured by the exhibiter, price 15?. 15s.

William East, of Spalding, Lincoln.
(New implement) a patent dropping machine, invented and
manufactured by the exhibiter, price 45?.

John Eatojj-, of Tvcy well Works, near Kettering,

Northamptonshire.
An " Eaton's patent " one horse cart, invented, improved,
and manufactured by the exhibiter (a prize of 5?. was awarded
to this description of cart at a meeting held at York, 1848),
price 9?. ; a registered economical and ornamental sheep crib,
invented by Y/iUiam Knight, Esq., of Titchmarsh, improved
and manufactured by the exuibite?, price 1?. 2s. 6d.; a mill
for grinding beans and peas, price 2?. 10s., and a hand power
lifting jack, price 3?. 5s., both invented by John Blockwell, of
Twywell Works, improved and manufactured by the exhibiter;
(new implement) a hand seed dibbler, invented, improved, and
manufactured by the exhibiter, price 15s.

Fowler and Fry, of Bristol.

(New implement) a spring waggon, invented by the late
Richard Stratton, of Bristol, improved and manufactured by
the exhibiters, price 42?.; a Gloucestershire waggon, improved
and manufactured by the exhibiters, price 40?. ; an harvest
cart, invented by J. Hannam, Esq., of Barcott Park, improved
and manufactured by the exhibiters, price 15?. 15a. ; a manure
cart body and axle, price 8?. 8s,, and (new implement) an im-
proved farm cart, price 16?. lOs., improved and manufactured
by the exhibiters; (new iajiplement) a registered farm cart,
invented, improved, and manufactured by the exhibiters, price
15?. lOs. ; a single horse agricultural cart, price 14?. 143. ; a
spring bullock cart, price 32?. ; and a light cranked-axle spring
cart, price 19?., improved and manufactured by the exhibiters;
(new implement) an iron body crank-axle cart for vfater or
liquid manure, invented, improved, and manufactured by the
exhibiters, price 24?. ; a Cobourg or family cart, improved aud
manufactured by the exhibiters, price 38?. ; (new implement)
a single row seed and manure drill, price 0?. lOs., aud (new
implement) an oilcake crusher for light cake, price 3?. 53., in-
vented, improved, and manufactured by the exhibiters ; (new
implement) a turnip grater, invented by Messrs. Bush and
Barter, of Lismore, Ireland, improved and manufactured by
the exhibiters, price 3?. lOs. ; (new implement) a pipe and tile
machine, invented by Alfred Tuckett, Esq., of Siston, Glou-
cestershire, improved and manufactured by the exhibiters,
price 25?. ; a Norwegian harrow, invented by Edward Frere,
Esq., of Roydon, improved and manufactured by the exhibiters,
price IS?. IO3. ; a brick and tile machine, invented by Randell
and Sanders, of Corsham, Wiltshire, improved and manufac-
tured by the exhibiters, price 45?.; a collection of cast iron
drain mouths, invented, improved, and manufactured by the
exhibiters, price from 2s. each upwards ; (new implement) a
patent steam draining plough, invented by John Fowler, of
Bristol, manufactured by the exhibiters, and by Clayton and
Shuttleworth of Lincoln, price 2,000?.

James Hart and Son, of Brigg, Lincolnshire.

Two sizes of a portable steam engine, invented, improved,
and manufactured by the exhibiters, price 200?. and 2251. ;
three sizes of Cambridge's patent press-wheel roller, invented
by William Cambridge, of Bristol, improved and manufactured
by the exhibiters, price 10?. to 14?.; a corn dressing machine,
prices?.; a blowing machine or corn rectifier, price 5?. Ss. ;
and a hand cake breaker, price 3?. 59., invented, improved,
aud manufactured by the exhibiters; a Gardner's turnip
cutter, invented by Gardner, of Banbury, and manufactured
by the exhibiters, price 4?. 10s. ; and a hand barley horner,
improved and manufactured by the exhibiters, price 5?.

Clark and Green, of Lincoln.

A dressing machine for corn, price 8?. 83. ; au hariflf blower,
price 61. ; a barley chopper, price 5?. 5s. ; and a ridge drill,
price 7?-, all improved and manufactured by the exhibiters ; a
chaff cutter, invented by Sawdon of Lincoln, improved and
manufactured by the exhibiters, price 6?.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

139

William Dray & Co., of London, Middlesex.

A aix-horse power steam engine, for fixture, iavented, im-
proved, aud manufactured by the exhibiters, price £165 ; (new
implement) a patent draining machine, invented by the Earl of
Duudonald, of London, and improved aud manufactured by the
exhibiters, price £175 ; three of the patent reaping machines,
invented by Obed Hussey, of the United States, America, im-
proved and manufactured by the exhibitors, price £21 each ;
four sizes of au improved chaff cutting machine, price
£4 lOs. to £14 10s.; three sizes of an improved corn
crnsher, price £5 53. to £10 lOs.; and two sizes of a grain
and linseed crusher, all invented, improved, and manu-
factured by Richmond and Chandler, of Salford, Manchester,
price £6 lOa. and £14 lOs. ; two si'.cs of a registered chalf
cutting machine, price £3 Ss. and £14 143. ; a chaff cutting
machine, price £2 18s. ; two registered winnowing and blowing
machines, price £11 lis. ; a grinding mill, for breaking agri-
cultural produce into meal, price £32 ; a flour mill, with dress-
ing apparatus attached, price £7 ; and three metallic churns,
all invented, improved, and manufactured by the exhibiters,
price £1 to £1 5a. ; two sizes of an American churn, invented
by J. Dalphin, of the United States, America, improved and
manufactured by the exhibiters, price £2 to £2 15s. ; a one-
row drill, for turnips and manure, invented, improved, and
manufactured by the exhibiters, price £11 lis.; a field roller,
improved and manufactured by the exhibiters, price £12 10s. ;
an iron plough, invented by J. Comes, jua., of Loudon, im-
proved and manufactured by the exhibiters, price £4 10s.; a
patent iron plough, invented, improved, and manufactured -by
J. and F. Hoifard, of Bedford, price £4: lOs. ; a patent iron
plough, invented, improved, aud manufactured by Rausoraes
and iSivna, of Ipswich, price £4 10s.; a patent iron plough, in-
vented, improved, aud manufactured by W. Busby, of Newton-
le-Willows, price £4 lOa. ; a patent iron plough, invented aud
manufactured by the exhibiters, price £3 10s.; a set of iron
harrows, invented, improved, and manufactured by W. Williame,
of Bedford, price £3 15s.; au iron subsoil plough, invented,
improved, aud manufactured by Gray aud Co., of Uddingston,
price £6 15s.; au iron grubber, invented by J. Teunant, of
Monkton, improved aud manufactured by the exhibiteis, price
£5 5s.; a cart for agricultural purposes, price £18 18s. ; a
patent mail axle, price £1 15b. ; a pair of arms aud boxes for
agricultural carts, price £1 5s. per pair; a rick stand, price
£o 10s.; a portable forge, for farm use, price £3 lOs. ; a set
of forge tools, price £1 Is. ; a portable farm vice-bench and
vice, price £2 10s.; au iron wheelbarrow, price £1 6s.; and
two wrought-irou galvanized liquid manure pumps, all invented,
improved, aud manufactured by the exhibiters, price £3 15s,
each ; two coils of flexible delivery hose, invented and manu-
factured by Hooper and Co., of London, price 7d. per foot ; a
water or wash carrier, on wheels, invented, improved, and
manufactured by the exhibiters, price £4 10s. ; two lawn mow-
ing machines, invented by Budding, improved and manufactured
by the exhibiters, price £6 5s. and £6 153; several ornamental
garden seats, price £2 23. ; and two bronzed iron tables, im-
proved and manufactured by the exhibiters, price £1 Ids.each ;
two circular iron pig troughs, inveuted, improved, and manufac-
tured by the e.'ihibiters, price 128. 6d. aud £1 Is. ; three iron pig
troughs, improved and manufactured by the exhibiters, price 8s.
6d. upwards ; two poultry fountains, price fa's. 6d. and 10s. 6d ; a
poultry trough, inveuted, improved, aud manufactured by Bar-
nard and Co., of Norwich, price Ss. 6d. ; a bundle of galvanized
wire netting, invented, improved, aud manufactured by the ex-
hibiters, price from 2-id. to 7d. per yard ; three bundles of wire
fencing, inveuted, improved, and mauufactured by Musgrave,
of Shields, price 2d. and 3d. per square foot ; a farm fire en-
gine, price £8 lOs. ; and two weighing machines, invented,
improved, and manufactured by the exhibiters, price £3 15s.
and £4 ; an iron lever weighing machine, improved and manu-
factured by the exhibiters, price £5 ; two iron mangers, rack,
and trough combined, price £3 IGs. each; and an enamelled
iron manger, invented, improved, and manufactured by the ex-
hibiters, price £1 lOs.; an iron manger, price 123. 6d.; and
two iron hay racks, manufactured by tl\e exhibiters, price
Ss. 6d.; three galvanized iron paila, price 53.6d. each; two sets
of painted stable pails, price 4b. Cd. aud Ss. 6d. each ; a set of
galvanized iron buckets, all invented, improved, and manufac-
tured by the exhibiters, price 4s. 6d. each ; three bundles of steel
digging forks, inveuted, improved, and manufactured by Lyn-
don, of Sheftield, price 48. 6d., Ss. 6d., and 6s. 6d, each ; a

light spring cait, invented and manufactured by the exhibiters,
price £18 18s.; three of Boyd's patent self-adjusting scythes,
invented by J. Boyd, of London, and manufactured by the ex-
hibiters, price lOs. 6d. each ; an iron screw cheese press, price
£3 15s.; a wrought iron screw lifting jack, price £3 3s. ; a
patent circular-saw table, for hand power, price £16 lOs. ; and
a circular saw table, for steam power, invented, improved, and
manufactured by the exhibiters, price £15 ISs. ; two sizes of a
portable iron piggery, price £9 each ; a patent portable shoot-
ing box, price £8 8s. ; and a patent portable farm building, all
invented and manufactured by the exhibiters, price £62.

Richard Forshaw aud Company, of Liverpool.

A three-ton cart and cattle weighing machine, invented by
John Craig, of Liverpool, improved and manufactured by the
exhibters. Highland and Agricultural Society's prize weighing
machine, price £22; a tweuty-cwt. platform weighing machine,
invented by Fairbank, improved and manufactured by the
exhibiters, price £10 lOs, ; a five-cwt. sack-weighing macbiriC,
invented by John Craig, of Liverpool, improved and manufae.
tured by the exhibiters, price £5 5s. ; a three-cwt. single lever
weighing machine, improved aud manufactured by the exhibi«
ters, can be fitted with an enamelled plate for domestic pur-
poses where great cleanliness is required, price £3 14a.; three
specimens of an oat aud beau crusher, invented by Cartmel;,
improved and manufactured by the exhibiters, price £5 5s. to
£6 lOs. ; a post kibbling mill, for oats, beans, &c., manufac-
tured by the exhibiter, price £2 1 as. ; a wheat mill and flour
dressing machme combined, invented and manufactured by the
exhibiteis, price £7 lOs. ; a patent sack-holder and barrow
combined, invented by Henry Gilbert, of St. Leonard's, price
£1 133. 6d.; an iron sack-truck or barrow, manufactured by
the exhibiter, price 123. 6d.; a turnip or root cutter aud slicer,
invented by Kealy and Co., of London, and manufactured by
the exhibiters, price £5 15s.; a Kase's patent fire engine and
liquid manure spreader, invented by Kase, of the United State.%
improved aud manufactured by Burgess and Key, of London,
price £8 8s. ; a set of iron whippletrees, price ISa. 6d. ; and
a letter copying press, manufactured by the exhibiters, price
£3 10s.

Edward Hernulewicz, of No. i, Bothweli- street,
Glasgow, Lanarkshire.
(New implement) an oblong iron corn-rick stand frame, ic»
vented and mauufactured by the exhibiter, price £6 10s.;
(new implement) a turnip cutter and slicer, improved and
manufactured by the exhibiter, price £4 ; (new implement) au
iron sheep fodder rack, invented and manufactured by the
exhibiter, price £5 10s. ; (new implement) a piece of improved
portable iron and wire sheep-feeding hurdle-fecce, improved and
manufactured by the exhibiter, price 5s. 9d. each ; a piece of
strong wroughtiron hurdle cattle fence, price 6s. 6d. each ;
a piece of ornamental hurdle fence, hare and rabbit proof,
price 6s. 9d. each ; aud a piece of plain hurdle fence, hare and
rabbit proof, manufactured by the exhibiter, price 4s. 9d.each;
two kinds of an ornamental self-shutting gate, price £1 15s.
to £7 10s. ; three kinds of a strong wrought iron field gate,
improved and mauufactured by the exhibiter, price £1 10s. to
£1 183. 9d. ; a web of strong hare and rabbit proof wire netting,
price per liuealyardls.; a set of iron stable fittings, consisting
of rack and manger, price £1 Is. per set; and a cast-irou
revolving pig trough, with five divisions, manufactured by the
exhibiter, price 133. 6d. ; and an iron and wire folding chair,
improved and manufactured by the exhibiter, price ISs. 6d.

E. and T. Humphries, of Pershore, Worcestershire.

A four-horse portable patent steam engine, price £180 ; and
a five-horse power portable patent steam engine, invented, im-
proved, and manufactured by Clayton, Shuttleworth, and Co.,
of Lincoln, price £200 ; two combined thrashing, shaking,
riddlinff, winnowing, and elevating machines, improved and
manufactured by the exhibiters, price £70 ; a complete set of
petfcrated plates or riddles, for combined and winnowing
machines, manufactured by tlie exhibiters.

John aud William Midworth, of Newark-upon»

Trent, Nottinghamshire.

(New implement) a one-horse hoe on the flat, invented by

John Revell, of Barnby, and manufactured by the exhibiters,

price £3 ; an iron plough, adapted for general purposes, in-

L 2

140

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

vented, improved, and manufactured by Henry Archer, of
Barrowby, Grantham, Lincolnshire — the first prize was awarded
to it at the North Lmcohishire Agricultural Meeting, held at
Gainsborough, July 27th, 1353— price £i lOs. ; an improved
swing plough, for light and heavy lanri, improved by the ex-
hibiters, and manufactured by Henry Archer, of Barrowby, near
Grantham, Lincolnshire, price £1 15s.; a steam cooking
range, invented, improved, and manufactured by the exhibiters,
price £17 5s.

Ltjcas and Wright, of Lincoln.

A winnowing machine, price £8 ; a corn blower, price £3
10s.; (new implement) a barley homer, price £5; a barley
chopper or horner, without fans to finish, price £4 10s. ; and
a bean and cake mill combined, improved and manufactured by
the <xhibiters, price £5; a weighing machine, price £2 5s.;
a cake mill, manufactured by the exhibiters, price £3; a straw
cutter, invented by Thomas Sawdon, patentee, of Lincoln, im-
proved and manufactured by the exhibiters, price £5 IO3. ; a
straw cutter, mamifactured by the exhibiters, price £4 lOs. ;
a turnip drill, with two coulters, price £8; a turnip drill, with
one coulter, price £6 10s. ; and a turnip scuffler, improved and
manufactured by the exhibitors, price £1 10s.; a sack barrow,
manufactured by the exhibiters price lis. ; a small steam en-
gine, manufactured by Thomas Attack, of Market Kaisen,
price £20; a Gardner's patent turnip cutter, manufactured by
Sarnuelson, of Banbury, price £4 lOs. ; and a turnip cutter,
improved and manufactured by the exhibiters, price £4 5a.

Mapplebeck and Lowe, of Birmingham, Warwick.

Four specimens of a patent iron plough with two wheels,
marked P., P.P., O, and O.O., invented and manufactured by J.
and F. Howard, of Bedford, price £4 3s., £4 lOs , £3 18s., aud
£4 5s. ; three specimens of a set of new patent four beam iron
harrows, marked 1 1, 14, and 12, invented by J. Howard and W.
Armstrong, of Bedford, improved and manufactured by J. and
F. Howard, of Bedford, price £4 43., £3 63., and £3 14s. ; an
improved iron horse hoe, invented and manufactured by J. and
F. Howard, of Bedford, price £2 15s.; a patent horse rake
witti new patent steel teeth, manufactured by J. and F.
Howard, of Bedford, price £8 lOs. ; two patent light broad-
share ploughs, invented aud manufactured by E. H. Bentall,
of Ueybridge, price £4 14s. 6d. and £5 Ss. ; four sets of im-
proved trussed whippletrees, invented by E. W. Harding, of
Oldspriiigs, manufactured by the exhibiters, price 93., 9s. 6d.,
10s, and IO3. 6d.; an iron field roller, price £11 ; three sizes
of au iron garden roller, price £1 ISs., £2 5s., and £2 153.;
and an improved garden engine, all manufactured by the exhi-
biters, price £5 ; two sizes of a patent lawn mowing machine,
invented by E. Buddmg, improved and manufactured by
Ferrabee and Sons, of Thrupp Mills, price £5 lOs. aud £6 ; a
bronzed ornamenial cast iron garden seat, manufactured by
the Coalbrookdale Company, price £2 lOs. ; a new Digby
pattern bronzed cast iron garden seat, price £1 lOs. ; and a
pair of garden chairs, manufactured by the exhibiters, price
£1 5s. eacu ; a wrought iron folding garden stool, with elastic
galvanized wire seat, invented and manufactured by Barnard
and Bishop, of Norwich, price 43. 6d. ; a chest of emigrant's
tool'i, manufactured by the exhibiters, price £8 ; a rotary
screening machine, invented and manufactured by A. K.
Smith, of Exeter, price £6 16s. 6d, ; several sizes of a plat-
form weighing machine of improved construction, price £3
lOs. and upwards; and two kinds of a 3 cwt. weighing ma-
chine, a'l manufactured by W. and T. Avery, of Birmingham,
price £2 53. upwards; a patent mangle, price £10 10s.; a
linen press, price £2 10s. ; a portable iron bedstead, price 10s.
6d. ; a patent solid iron stump bedstead, price £1 Is. ; aa im-
proved portable forge, price £4 43. ; an iron sack cart, price
103. 6d. ; a sack cart with wood frame, price 12s. 61J. ; three
game proof ornamental galvanized wire hurdles, price Is. 8d.
per lineal foot, or 6s. 8d. per hurdle ; a game proof ornamental
galvanized wire hurdle, price Is. lOd. per lineal foot, or 7s. 8d.
per hurdle ; four ornamental wrought iron hurdles, price Is.
4d. per lineal foot, or 5s. 4d. per hurdle ; specimens of painted
game proof wire netting, 4d. per lineal yard and upwards; and
specunens of galvanized wire netting, all manufactured by the
exhibiters, price Is. 6d. per lineal yard, or 3d. per square foot,
andupwaids; a set of patent draining toob, invented by
Joaiah Parkes, Esq., of London, manufactured by W. A.
Lyndon, of Birmingham (the prize of £5 was awarded to the

exhibiters for these tools at the Northampton meeting of the
Royal Agricultural Society; also a prize at Lewes, 1852),
price £1 12s. 3d. the set ; two sets of patent draining tools,
price £1 4s. 9d. and £1 8s. 9d. the set; a bundle of patent
spades, 3s. 3d. and upwards ; a bundle of five prong solid steel
digging forks, manufactured by W. A. Lyndon, of Birmingham,
price 63. each ; a bundle of four prong solid steel digging
forks, price, light 4s. 8d., strong 5s. each ; a bundle of five
prong solid steel digging forks, price, strong 5s. 6d., extra
strong 68. each ; a bundle of solid steel three prong dung forks,
price Ss. and 3s. 6d. each ; a bundle of solid steel four prong
dung forks, price 4s. and 4s. 4d. each ; a bundle of solid steel
couch grass forks, price 3s. 9d. and 4s. 3d. each ; and a bundle
of solid steel boy's digging and border forks, all manufactured
by F. Parkes, of Stonehouse Forge, price 3s. 6d., 43. 3d., 4s.
6d., and 5s. each ; a set of cast irou stable furniture, invented
and manufactured by the exhibiters, price complete £4 ; an
improved galvanized hen coop, price 12s. 6d. ; and an im-
proved corn dressing or winnowing machine, manufactured by
the exhibiters, price £7 ; three sizes of an oak churn, improved
and manufactured by Robinson and Son, of Coventry, price
£2 12s. 6d,, £2 17s. 6d., and £3 5s. ; a double cheese press,
price £5; a single cheese press, price £2 lOs. ; aud an im-
proved oil cake breaker, improved and manufactured by the
exhibiters, price £3 33. ; a patent turnip cutter, mverited by
the late James Gardner, of Banbury, and manufactured by the
exhibiters (awarded the silver medal of the Royal Agricultural
Society at the Northampton meeting), price £4 ; an improved
oat and bean crusher for hand power, price £5 ; a portable
kibbling mill, price £3 lOs. ; a portable bean mill, price £3
lOs. ; and a portable malt mill, manufactured by the exhibi-
ters, price £5 ; a two knife chaff engine, improved and manu-
factured by the exhibiters, price £2 10s. ; three sizes of a two
knife chaff engine, invented and manufactured by J. Comes,
of Bavbridge (awarded a prize at the Royal Agricultural So-
ciety's meeting at Lewes in 1852, also at Gloucester, 1853,
price £5 10s., £8 lOs., and £12 10s.; (new article) a pair of
hames, price £1 2s. 6d.; and (new article) a pair of galvanized
iron traces, manufactured by the exhiidters, price £1 48.;
(new article) a set of Rice's patent spring links, invented and
manufactured by W. Rice, of Boston, price 73. 6d. upwards ;
and (new article) a set of Registered steel pt inted scythes,
invented and manufactured by Robert Sorby and Sons, of
Sheffield, price from 2s. 6d. to 3s. 6d. each.

Robert Hawkins Nicholls, of St. John's, Bedford.

(New implement) a patent universal horse hoe. invented and
improved by the exhibiter, manufactured by William Williams,
of Bedford, price £12 12s. ; (new implement) a patent one row
horse hoe, invented by the exhibiter, manufactured by William
Astbury, of Bedford, price £5 Ss. ; (new implement) a patent
paring plough or skimmer, price SI. aud upwards ; (new imple-
ment) a patent scarifier and cultivator, price 81, and upwards;
and (new implement) a patent sabsoil pulverizer, invented by
the exhibiter, manufactured by William Astbury, of Bedford,
price 21. 2s. ; a plough for general purposes, manufactured by
William Astbury, of Bedford, price 41. ; a patent self acting
skim coulter, invented by the exhibiter, manufactured by Wil-
liam Astbury, of Bedford, price 13s. 6d.

Edmund Skins, of Metheriogham, Lincolnshire.

An improved turnip hoe or scuffler, with new frame, invented
and improved by John Greenham, of Blankney, manufactured
by Edmund Skins and William White, of Metheriugham, price
51. 63.

Alfred Sparke, of Norwich, Norfolk,
A six horse power portable steam engine, price 210Z. ; a six
horse power thrashing machine, with shaker, riddle, and blower,
price 6 IZ.; a three lever manure and turnip drill for flat or
ridge work, price 12L lOs. : a circular-saw bench, price lil.;
and a horse hoe, price 51. IO3., all invented, improved, and
manufactured by the exhibiter

Thomas Taylor, of Edingley, near Southwell, Not-
tinghamshire.
A turnip drill, on the flat and ridge, price 71.; a corn dres-
sing machine, price SI.; aud a straw cutter, improved and ma-
nufactured by the exhibiter, price 71.; and (new implement) a
manure distributor and turnip drill, invented, improved, and
manufactured by the exhibiter,"price 171,

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

141

William Tasker and George Fowle, of Waterloo
Iron Works, near Andover, Hampshire.
A four and five row patent liquid manure or water and seed
drill, invented by Wdliatn Charles Spooner, of Eling House,
near Southampton, and the exhibiters, improved and manu-
factured by the exhibiters, price ill. lOs. ; (new implement) a
patent improved drill, for turnips and mangel wurzel with ma-
nure, on the flat, invented and manufactured by the exhibiters,
price 221. 10s. ; two sizes of a patent pre3s wheel roller or clod
crusher, invented and improved by William Colborue Cam-
bridge, of Bristol, Gloucestershire, and manufactured by the
exhibiters, prices 15Z. and 181.; an improved portable com-
bined thrashing machine, fitted with straw shaker, screen, win-
nowing machine, and sacking up apparatus, for steam power,
improved and manufactured by the exhibiters, price 90/.

TuXFORD and Sons, of Boston and Skirbeck Iron
Works, near Boston, Lincolnshire.
A four horse power patent portable housed steam engine,
price £190 ; a five horse power patent portable housed steam
ensjine, price £195 ; a six horse power patent portable housed
steam engine, price £215 ; an ei^jht-horse power patent porta-
ble boused steam engine, price £245 ; a four horse power
fixed steam engine, price £105 ; a six horse power fixed steam
engine, price £165 ; a six horse power fixed steam enji;iue,
price £175; a patent combined bolting, thrashing, shaking,
winnowing, and chaff riddling machine, price £80 ; a patent
combined bolting, thrashing, shaking, cape stripping, winnow-
ing, and chaflf riddling machine, price £100; a patent combined
bolting, sell-feeding, shaking, cape stripping, winnowing, and
chaff riddling and stacking machine, price £120; a patent
bolting, thrashing, sliaking, and riddling machine, price £60 ;
a patent self-feeding bolter thrashing and winnowing machine,
price £70 ; a patent perforated table straw shaker, price £16 ;
and a circular-saw table, price £75, all invented by Weston
Tuxford, of Boston, and manufactured by the exhibiters.

White and Harris, of Sleaford, Lincolnshire.

A full sized general purpose waggon, price £38 ; a full size
general purpose Lincolnshire waggon, price £38 ; (new imple-
ment) a light spring waggon or dray, price £40 ; aui^ (new im-
plement) a one or two-horse cart, price £15 ; all invented and
mauulactured by the exhibiters; a set of fo"r beam strong iron
harrows ('btained the prize of £5 from the Royal Agricultural
Society at York in July, 1848), price £4, and a set of iron
harrows, price £3 lOs., invented by W. Amstrong, of Bedford,
and manufactured by the exhibiters ; an oilcake breaker, in-
vented by Bansomes and Sims, of Ipswich, and manufactured
by the exhibiter, price £4 153. ; a single plough with beam
and handles of wood, invented and manufactured by tne exhi-
biters, price £4 43. ; three iron ploughs, marked A P L, in-
vented by A. White and Pearson, of Sleaford, and manufac-
tured by Pwansomes and Sims, of Ipswich, price £5 58. each ;
three ploughs, marked W P B, price £2 2s , £2 18s., and £3
18s. ; and two ploughs, marked A P L, price £3 and £4,
invented and manufactured by the exhibiters.

James White, of 266, High Holborn, London.

Four sizes of a flour mill to grind and dress the flour at one
operation, price £6 63., £7 lOs., £8 83., and £9 93. ; four sizes
of a steel corn mill to grind wheat, barley, rye, &c., price £3
10s , £4 lOs., £5 10s., and £7 lOs. ; and a steel roller bean
sp'itter, price £3 lOs., all manufactured by the exhibiter ; a
steel roller oat crusher, price 3/. 10s., and three sizes of a steel
roller oat and bean crusher, price il. lOs., 51. 10s., and 6/.
63., invented and manufactured by the exhibiter.

Robert Wilson and Son, of Beverley, Yorkshire.
Two corn dressing machines with wheat screen and six
twenty-two inch riddles, invented by Robert Wilson, improved
and manufactured by the exhibiters, price 81. lOs. each.

Thomas Allcock, of Radclifife-upon-Trent, near
Nottingham.
Four sizes of a chaff cutter with two knives, invented,
improved, and manufactured by the exhibiter, price 4Z. and
upwards to lU/. lOa. ; a cultivator, grubber, or scarifier, price
lO/. lOs. ; two sizes of an iron plough with two wheels, price
4/. 5s. and 5i.; and a horse drag rake, price 6Z. ISs., all in-
vented, improved, and manufactured by the exhibiter.

James and Abraham Armitage, of Bury, near
Ramsey, Huntingdonshire.
Two sizes of a brick and drain-tile machine, price £14 and
£18 ; a ten-row lever corn-drill, price £23, and an improved
portable straw shaker, all invented, improved, and manufac-
tured by the e.xhibiters, price £9 IO3,

William Ball, of Rothwell, near Kettering, North-
amptonshire,
Several specimens of an iron plough, invented, improved,
and manufactured by the exhibiter (a prize of £5 was awarded
to this plough for general purposes at the Royal Agricultural
Society's Meeting at Norwich, 1845; prize of £7 at Exeter,

1850 ; a prize medal at the Great Exhibition of All Nations,

1851 ; also a first-class prize at the Dublin Exhibition, 1853 ;
a prize of £7 at the Royal Agricultural Society's Meeting at
Gloucester), price £4 and upwards; (new implement), a press
corn drill on the flat, invented and manufactured by the exhi-
biter, price £30 ; a lii;ht waggon for two horses (this waggon
obtained a prize of £5 at the Royal Agricultural Society's
Meeting at Lewes, 1852), price £40; a one-horse cart for
general purposes, price £14 ; a cultivator, grubber, and
scarifier, price £7 lOs., and a set of whippletrees for a plough,
all invented, improved, and manufactured by the exhibiter,
price 10s. 6d.

James Barton, Ironmonger, &c., 370, Oxford-street,
London.
Several sizes of patent stable fittings, price £3 15s. and up-
wards, and (new implements) two specimens of an improved
manger, with water troughs, for a corner, invented, improved,
and manufactured by the exhibiter, price £2 7s. 6d. ; a two-
feet six-inch cast iron corner enamelled manger, price £1 2s.;
a three-feet straight cast iron galvanized manger, price £1 5s.;
a cast iron stable post, price £1 7s.; (new implement), a cast
iron ramp rail for stable, price 129., and a cast-iron cill for
stable, all manufactured by the exhibiter, price 73. 6d.; (new
implements), an improved five-feet four-inches and four-;eet
three-inches length of galvanized iron stable guttering, with
moveable cover, price 2s. 9d. and 4s. J?d. per foot run ; (new
implement), an iron angle piece for stable guttering, price 5s.
6d. each, and (new implement) au iron T piece for stable gut-
tering, invented, improved, and mauulactured by the exhibiter,
price 8s. 6d each ; several sizes of a square cast iron galvanized
horse pot for stables, price 63. each and upwards; a ten-inch
square galvanized cast iron stable grate and frame, price 6s.
6d. ; a two-feet six-inch and two-feet ten wrought iron corner
hay rack, price 8s. 6d. and 93. 6d.; a two-feet six-inch gal-
vanized wrought iron corner hay rack, with capping top, price
16s. 6d ; two enamelled iron dog troughs, price 6s. and 7«. ;
a cast iron rick stand, with loose top, price 93. ; two wrought
iron galvanized stable buckets, price 5s. 6d. and 6s., and a
wrought iron galvanized stable bucket, all manufactured by the
exhibiter, price 6s.

Messrs. T. and H. Brinsmead, of St. Giles, near
Torrington, Devonshire.
A patent straw shaker, invented by Henry Brinsmead,
patentee, of St. Gdes, manufactured by tt e exhibiters (awarded
a silver medal at Gloucester) price 12/. 123.

William Busby, of Newton-le-Willows, near Bedale,
Yorkshire.
Four sizes of a one horse cart, invented by W. Lister, Esq.,
of DuQse Bank, manufactured by the exhibiter (a prize of \0l.
was awarded to this cart at the Exeter meeting in 1850, it
was also included in the award of the council medals of the
Great Exhibition of 1851, and had a 101. prize at Lewes,
1852), price 12L 123. and upwards; a two wheeled deep .
plough (this plough received the prize at the Society's meeting
at Northampton in 1847, at York, 1848, 10/ , at Lewes, 1852,
71, and included in the council medals of the Great Exhibition
1851), price 5/. 53.; a two wheeled plough for general pur(ioses
(this plough received the award of the council medal at the
Great Exhibition of 1851, and at Gloucester, 1853), price 4/.
10/.; a two wheeled two horse plough, price 4/. 43.; a light
two horse plough with two wheels, price 4/., and a two
wheeled plough with steel breast, all invented, improved, and
manufactured by the exhibiter, price 4/. 10s. ; a two wheeled
plough with steel breast, price 4/. ISs. ; a one wheeled plough,

142

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

price 31. 158.; a one wheeled plough with steel breast, price
4^.43.; a one wheeled plough with steel breast, price 4/. ; a
swing plough, price 31. 10s. ; a swing plough with steel breast,
pnce 31. ISs. ; a horse hoe on the ridge (this implernent re-
ceived the prize of the Royal Society for five years in
succession), price 21. 10s. ; a horse hoe with five tines, in-
vented, improved, and manufactured by the exhibiter, price
31. 33. ; a horse hoe with five tines, price 21. 17s. 6d. ; a horse
hoe, price 21., and a clod crusher and Norf.egian harrow com-
bined, invented by the Rev. W. F. Wharton, of Birmingham,
improved and manufactured by the exhibiter, price Ql. 63.

Richard Coleman, of Chelmsford, Essex.

Ten different sizes of a patent drag harrow, cultivator, or
scarifier, invented, improved, and manufactured by the ex-
hibiter (the prize medal was awarded to this implement at the
Oreat Exhibition of 1851), price 6/. I63. and upwards to lol.

James CoRXEs.of Barbridge, near Nantwich, Cheshire.

A registered chaff cutting machine (No. 5) with three
knives (tbis machine gained a prize of lOZ. at the Royal
Agricultural Society's meeting at Shrewsbury in 1845, at
Newcastle-upon-Tyne in 1846, at Northampton 1817, the
Society's silver medal at York 1848, a prize of £10 at
Norwich 1849, £10 at Exeter 18-50, the prize medal of the
Great Exhibitioa 1831, and a prize of £10 at Gloucester 1853),
price £14; the following registered chaff cutting machines,
viz., (No. 6) with two knives, price £12 10s., (No. 1) with
three knives, price £10, (No. 3) with two knives, price £8
10a., (No. 4) with two knives, price £6 ISs., (No. 9) with two
knives (this machine gained a prize of £5 at the Royal Agri-
cultural Society's meeting at Lewes in 1852, and a prize of
£5 at Gloucester in 1853), price £4 15s., ard (No. 10) with
tv/o knives, were all invented by John Cornea, sen., improved
and manufactured by the exhibiter, price £4 10s.; a two horse
power, invented, improved, and manufactured by the ex-
hibiter, price £15; a bone mill for hand or other power, in-
vented by John Comes, sen., improved and manufactured by
the exhibiter, price £15; a chaff cutting machine with two
knives, price £3, and a curd mill for making cheese, invented
and manufactured by the exhibiter, price £2, and a stand and
pulleys, price £2.

William Crowley, of Newport Pagnell, Bucks.

A one horse cart for general purposes, awarded the prize
medal at the Great Exhibition, 1851, price £15; and two pair
of Newport hames, price 83. and lOs. per pair, all invented,
improved, and manufactured by the exhibiter.

Richard Downs, of Ryhall (Rutlandshire), near
Stamford, Lincolnshire.

(New implement) a scarifier with two sets of teeth, price £9,
invented and manufactured by the exhibiter ; a two furrow
paring plough, price £6 ; a plough for general purposes, price
£4 10s. ; a ridging plough, price £5 ; and a horse hoe, price
£i 10s., all invented, improved, and manufactured by the ex-
hibiter.

William Garner, of Spalding, Lincolnshire.

Four sizes of a patent press wheel roller or clcd crusher,
price from £12 to £18 18s., inveuted by WilHara C. Cam-
bridge, of Bristol, and improved and manu.'actured by the ex-
hibiter ; an improved press wheel roller or clod crusher, price
£18 I83., invented and manufactured by the exhibiter ; three
aizes of a plain cylinder roller, price £6 lOs. and upwards,
manufactured by the exhibiter; a garden roll, price £3 lOs.;
a plough, price £3 ; two improved iron ploughs, price £4 and
£5; an iron horse rake, price £12 ; and a chaff cutter, price
£10 lOs, all improved and manufactured by the exhibiter; a
corn crusher, price £6 6s., invented and manufactured by
Whitmee aad Co., of London, for which the Great Exhibition
prize medal was awarded; a patent prize broad share and sub-
soil plough, cultivator, or scarifier, combined in one implement,
price £7 ; and a Bentall's patent light bioad share plough,
price £5 Ss., invented and manufactured by Edward H. Ben-
uVi, of Heybridge, Essex ; a set of patent four beam iron seed
narrows, price £3 3s., invented and manufactured by Howard
and, Son, of Bedford.

Thomas Milford, of Thorverton, near CuUompton,
Devonshire.
(New implement) two specimens of Milford's improved
Gloucester one horse cart, for general, farm, road, and harvest
purposes, price £13 and £14, invented, improved, and manu-
factured by the exhibiter; awarded the prize of the Royal
Agricultural Society at their Gloucester meeting, July, 1853.

JoHji GoucHER, of Worksop, Nottinghamshire.
A patent three horse power portable thrashing machine,
adapted for horse power, price £55, received the prize medal at
the Yorkshire Agricaltural Society's meeting at Sheffield, 1852;
a patent six horse power portable thrashing machine, adapted
for steam power, price £90 ; a patent seven horse power sta-
tionary or portable thrashing machine, price, stationary £90,
portable £100 ; and a seven horse power stationary steam
engine, price £140, all inventeJ, improved, and manufactured
by the exhibiter ; (new implement) a patent three horse baru
works of thrashing machine, price £55, invented and manu-
factured by the exhibiter.

David Harkes, of Mere, near Knutsford, Cheshire.
(New implement) a D. Harke's patent reaping and mowing
machine, price £35 ; a model of D. Harkes' patent reaping
and mowing machine, price £10; a parallel expanding horse
hoe, price £3 lOa., the prize of £5 was awarded at the Royal
Agricultural Society's meeting at Southampton, and the prize
of £2 at the Shrewsbury meeting ; and a drill or ridging
plough, pries £3 15s., all invented, improve ^, and manufactured
by the exhibiter.

AitTxiua Lyon, of 32, Windmill-street, Finsbury
Middlesex.
A cutting machine for cutting up fish and other substances
for manure, price 9l. ; a cutting machine for reducing vegeta-
bles for cattle, price 7l. lOs. ; a cutting machine, price 6l. ; a
small machine for cutting vegetables for poultry, price 2l.10s.;
and models of cutting machines for cutting vegetables, &c.,
price from iL. 10s., all invented aad manufactured by the
exhibiter.

Oliver Magg, of Bourton, near Wincanton,
Somersetshire.
A patent combined thrashing, shaking, riddling, winnowing
and dressing machine, inveuted and manufactured by the
exhibiter, price 80l. ; a four horse power portable thrashing
machine, invented, improved, and manufactured by the
exhibiter, price 56L. ; an oat, bean, and malt crushing mill,
improved and manufactured by the exhibiter, price 6l. lOs. ;
an oat, bean, malt, and lin?eed crusher, invented aad manufac-
tured by the exhibiter, price 6l. lOs. ; an improved screw and
lever cheese press, invented by the late Daniel Magg, of Bour-
ton, improved and manufactured by the exhibiter, price 2l.
15s. ; an iron plough for general purposes, marked H J I, and
another marked H T 4, both manufactured by theli exhi-
biter, price 3l. lOs. each ; au improved horse dr.sg rake,
invented and manufactured by the exhibiter, price 8l. ; au
improved patent turnip cutter, invented by Edward Moody,
late of Maiden Bradley, improved and manufactured by the
exhibiter, price 4l. ; aud a registered sack barrow and sack
holder, invented and manufactured by the exhibiter, price
1l. 83.

William Mitton, of Lincoln.

A single seated child's carriage, price 1l. lOs., and a double
seated child's carriage, price 1l. ISs., both invented and
m.anufactured by the exhibiter; an arm chair with spiral back
and bottom, price 173. 6d. ; an arm chair with spiral seat and
Gothic back, price ISs. ; a pair of small chairs, price iL. 58.;
a pair of folding stools, price 93. ; a garden seat 3 feet 6 inches
long, price 1l. ; a garden seat 5 feet long, spiral bottom, price
1l. 7^. Gd ; a web of f inch bird netting, price 5d. per super-
ficial foot ; 1 inch netting, price 4d. per superficial foot ; l^
inch netting, price Is. per lineil yard ; a web of 1^^ inch rabbit
netting, price lOd. per lineal yard ; a web of double mesh
rabbit wire netting, price 7d. per lineal yard ; a web of 2 inch
rabbit netting, price 6|d. per lineal yard; a web of 2 insh
rabbit netting, extri stroug, price 7i-d. per lineal yard; a length
of strong strained iron wire fencing, cast metal pillars, price
2s. per lineal yard ; a tree guard 2 feet high 18 inches diame-

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

143

ter, Gothic pattern, price 2s. 6cl. ; a tree guard 24 inches by
12 inches, made from the wire netting, price Is. 4d. ; a tree
guard 24 inches by 18 inches, made from the wire netting,
price 23. ; and a bundle of 3 ft. stakes for fixing wire netting,
price 69. per dozen, all manufactured by the exhibiter,

Sheppard and Edwin Ransome and Co,, of
31, Essex-street, Strand, London.

Three sizes of a patent economic oven, invented by Micbael
Fitch, of Chemsford, manufactured by the Patent Oven Com-
pany, of Chelmsford, price 6l. Ss. 6d. and upwards; two
patent self-closing valves for preventing smoke and econo-
mising fuel, invented and manufactured by Thomas Symea
Prideaux, of Loudon, price IOl. lOs. each ; two centrifugal
pumps, price 12l. and ItjL. ; and a double acting semi-rotary
pump, price So., invented and manufactured by Gwynne and
Sons, of London ; a six pound patent box churn, invented by
the Lite Thomas Wilkinson, of London, manufactured by
Lelitia Wilkinson, of London (obtained a prize medal at the
Great Exhibition of 1851), price 2l. 2s. ; a ten pound ditto,
price 2l. Ss,

James Smyth and Sons, of Peasenhall, near Yoxford,
Suffolk, and Witham, Essex.

A model of a Suffolk lever corn drill, price 15Z. ; a model of
a Suffolk general purpose lever drill, price 251. ; a patent one
rowed turnip and mangel wurzel seed aui manure drill, price
10?. lOs. ; a patent two rowed ditto (this drill received a prize
of \Ql. and a silver medal at Southampton, in 1844), price 15Z.
5s. ; a patent three rowed ditto, price 2\l. lOs. ; a patent four
rowed ditto, price 25Z. ISs. ; a patent five rowed ditto, price
28Z. ; a patent manure di3tribitor, price 18L 10s.; a patent
general purpose drill (this drill gained a prize of lOZ. at the
Society's meeting, at Liverpool, in 1841), price 40Z. ; a patent
five rowed turnip and mangel wurzel seed drill, price IIZ. ; a
patent " small occupation " Suffolk lever corn and seed drill
(this drill was awarded the price of 5Z. at the Societj's show,
held at Gloucester, last year), price \Ql. ; a patent nine rowed
Suffolk lever corn drill, price 23Z. IBs. 6d. ; another size, price
211. ISs. Gd.; two sizes of a patent ten rowed ditto, (a prize of
5Z. was awarded to this machine at Derby, in 1843), price 25Z.
Ss. and 29Z. Ss. ; a patent eleven rowed ditto, price 28L 53. ; a
patent twelve rowed ditto, price 28Z. lOs. ; a patent thirteen
rowed ditto, price 34Z. 5s. ; two patent thirteen coulter Suffolk
lever corn drills, prices ZOl. 5s. and 35Z. ; a patent fourteen
coulter ditto, price 31 Z. 53.; a patent fifteen coulter ditto, price
32Z. 10s. ; a patent thirteen and two coulter ditto, price 34Z.
ISs., all invented, improved, and manufactured by the ex-
hibiters; a steerage horse hoe, improved and manufactured by
the exhibitors, price £12; a patent horoe rake, invented, im-
proved, and manufactured by Barrett, Exall, and Co,of Read-
iag, price £8.

William Newzam Nicholson, of Newark -upon-
Trent, Nottinghamshire.
Seven different sized machines for breaking oil cake for beasts
and sheep — this machine had a prize of £5 awarded to it at
the Norwich show, and also a prize of £3 at the Gloucester
show, and the £5 prize at the Exeter show, and the prize medal
at the Great Exhibition, price £3 Ss. and upwards ; and a
machine for grinding beans, oats, malt, barley, &c., invented,
improved, and manufactured by the exhibiter, price £4 48. ;
a haymaking machine, improved and manufactured by the ex-
hibiter, price £13 lOs.; (new implements) two haymaking
machines, price £12 12s.; two kinds of a complete corn-dress-
ing or winnowing machine, price £12and£13 133.; a winnow-
ing or corn-dressing macliine, which may also be used as a
blO'ver, price £9 Qs. ; and a corn-dressing machine, for small
OCCup:itions, all invented, improved, and raanufact'.ired by the
exhibiter, price £8 ; (new iraplemeat) a combined blower and
barley hummelling machine, invented by John Hall, of Sib-
thorpe, improved and manufactured by the exhibiter, price
8l. 83.; two barley awning or hummelling machines, price 5l.
53. and 5fi. lOs. ; and a two-knife chaff cutter, improved and
manufacturrd by the exhibiter, price 4i,, ; a chaff cutter, in-
vented by Cornes, of Barbridge, improved and manufactured
by the exhibiter, price IOl. lOs. ; (new implement) a half-horse
power steam engme, price 22l. lOa. ; a pair of steaming ves-
sels, connected with the above engine, improved and manufac-
tured by the exhibiter, price 5l, IC3, ; a Kichmond'a No. 3 B

chaff engine, invented, improved, and manufactured by Rich-
monp and Chandler, of Salford, price, with drum, 8l. ; a bean
cutter, for hard or soft beans, invented by George Arthur
Biddell, of Ipswich, and manufactured by Ransomes and Sims,
of Ipswich, had a silver medal awarded to it at the Gloucester
show, price 3l. 15s. 6d. ; a roller mill for crushing linseed,
oats, malt, &c., improved and manufactured by Turner & Co.,
of Ipswich, price 8l. ; a one-row ridge turnip drill, for seed
and manure, manufactured by the exhibiter, price 7l. 7s. ; a
patent iron beam broadshare and subsoil plough, price 6l.
16s. 6d. ; a patent wood beam broadshare and subsoil plough,
price 6l. 63.; and patent iron beam broadshare plough, in-
vented, improved, and manufactured by E. H. Bentall, of
Heybridge, price 5l. 5s. ; four iron ploughs with two wheels,
one of which gained the prize of 7l. at the Lewis Meeting,
invented, improved, and manufactured by Ransomes and Sims,
of Ipswich, price oL. lOs. and upwards ; four sizes of a set of
four-beam patent iron harrows, price 3l. 6s. and upwards;
and a patent horse rake, with steel teeth, invented, improved,
and manufactured by Messrs. Howard, of Bedford, price 8l.
IOl.; a sack- weighing machine, price 3l. lOs. ; a platform
weighing machine, improved and manufactured by Avery, of
Birmingham, price 3l.13s.6d.; a steelyard weighing machine,
for sacks, &c., improved and manufactured by the exhihiter,
price 1l. lOs.; a set of tubular iron whippletrees, for two
horses, invented by Harding, and improved and manufactured
by the exhibiter, price 123. 3d. ; a set of three-horse tubular
iron whippletrees, invented by Harding, improved by th; Rev.
T. C. Carise, of Southwell, manufactured by the exhibiter, price
173. 6d. ; a mortising machine, invented, improved, and manu-
factured by William Coulson, of York, price 11l. lis.; aland
roller, improved and manufactured by the exhibiter, price 8l.
lOs. ; two sizes of a cottage cooking range, with patent im-
provements— this article had a prize awarded to it of 5l. ac
the York show, and a further prize of 5l. at the Exeter sIlow,
price 1l. 18s. 6d. and 3l. 3s.; two sizes of a cottage cooking
grate, price 1l. 13s. and 2l. 10s. ; a cooking grate, adapted
for a small farm kitchen or bailiff's cottage, price 4l. 4s.; a
cocking grate for farm kitchens, price 7l. 10s.; a superior
range for farm kitchens, all invented, improved, and raanu«
factured by the exhibiter, price 11l. 15s. ; an improved kitchen
cooking apparatus, improved and manufactured by the exhibiter,
price 8l, 8s.; three sizes of a Cosmopolitan cooking stove,
price 4 L., 11l. lOs., and 26l. 10s.; an Anglo-German Cot-
tnger's stove, price 2l."15s. ; two sizes of a cottage grate for
bedrooms, price 17s. 6d. and 1l. Ss.; and a cottage pump
and sink, invented, improved, and manufactured by the exhibiter,
price 2l.; pumps suitable for cottages or farm purposes,
manufactured by the exhibiter, price 2l. 5s., 2l. 15s , and
3l. lOs,

John Henry Saunders, of 23, Abchurch-!ane,
London.
(New implement) a rotary reaping and mowing machine,
invented by J. F. Kingston and exhibiter, and manufactured
by the exhibiter, price 42l.

Henry Attwood Thompson, of Lewes, Sussex.

Two sizes of (new implement) a one horse Scotch cart, price
£15 10a. to £18 lOs.; (new implement) an improved double
action hay making machine, price £15 15s. ; an improved
horse rake, price £7 17s. 6d. ; and a portable iron pump, on
Tripod stant^, with flexible hose, all invented and manufactured
by the exhibiter, price £7 lOs. ; a telescope drainage level and
staff, manufactured by the exhioiter (this instru'iieut received
the prize of a silver medal at the Gloucester show in 1853),
price £5 lOs. ; an improved drainage level, manufactured by
Blundell, of London, price £4 43. ; (new implement) the " eco-
nomic" drainage level, invented and manufactured by the ex-
hibiter, price, with tripod stand, £1 IBs.

John Whitmee and Co., of 18, Fenchurch-Builuingg,
City; and 11, Ray-street, Cierkenwell, London.

Three sizes of a corn crusher, price £5, £6, and £10 ; two
sizes of a flour mill, price £7 and £10 10s. ; and a grinding
mill for breaking agricultural produce into meal, invented,
improved, and manufactured by the exhibiter, price £13.

George Hancock, of Sandbach, Cheshire.
A double action centrifugal churn, invented by Thomas

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

Hancock, of Wistaston, Cheshire, manufactured by the exhi-
biter, price £ 43. ; an improved churn, iuvented and manufac-
tured by the exhibiter, price £2 2s.; models of cheese vats,
cheese tubs, and milk pails, manufactured by the exhibiter.

Charles Revill, of Lincoln.
A corn dressing machine, price 81. Ss. ; a blower, price 5Z.
5s. ; a barley horner, price 5?. lOs ; a chaff cutter, price Ql.
6s. ; a cake and bean mill combined, price 51. 5s ; and a
weiijhirig machine, all invented, improved, and manufactured
by the exhibiter, price 21. 15s.

Ransomes and Sims, Ipswich, Suffolk.
Eight different descriptions of Ransomes' patent iron plough
with t«o wheels, invented, improved, and manufactured by the
exhiljitera, awarded the prize of £7 at the meeting of the
Royal Ai^ricuUural Society at Lewes, 1852, as the be^t plough
for general purposes, the prize of £10 and silver medal as the
best heavy laud plough, and a prize of £10 and silver raedal as
the best light land plough at the Royal Agricultural Society's
meetins! at Southampton, also a prize of £10 at the Royal
Agricultural Society's meeting at Nor'harapton, and the
Council medal at the Great Exhibition, price £3 10s. and up-
wards ; fonr sizes of Ransomes' patent trussed beam iron
universal plough (marked Y U L), iuvented by J. Clarke, of
Long Sutton, imp.oved and manufactured by the exhibiters,
obtained the sdver medal at the meeting of the Royal Agri-
cultural Society at Norwich, 18 !9, price £4 43. and upwards;
several other of Ransomes' patent iron ploughs with two
wheels, invented, improved, and manufactured by the exhibi-
ters, price £4 to £9 9s. ; a set of Ransomes' patent trussed
iron whippletrees, invented, improved and manufactured by the
exhibiters, obtained the Royal Agricultural Society's silver
medal at S uthampton, and commended at the Royal Agricul-
tural Society's meeting at Lewes, price £133.; a Smith's
rejistered subsoil plough, invented by Wni. Smith, of Little
Woolstone, improved and manufactured by the exhibiters,
price £4 lOs. ; a Biddell's patent wrought iron scarifier, grub-
ber, or cultivator (marked No. 2), invented by Arthur Biddell,
of Playfard, improved and manufactured by the exhibiters, this
implement obtained the prize of £10 at the Royal Agricultural
Soc ety's meeting at Liverpool, also at Northampton in 1847,
at York in 1848 at Norwich in 1849, at Lewes in 1852, and
at Gloucester in 1853, price £24 ; (new implement) an " East
Anglican" cultivator, price £12 123., and a Ransomes' im-
proved Suffolk grubber, invented, improved, and manufactured
by the exhibiters, price £5 ; an Atkins's patent automaton or
self raking reaper, iuvented by Jearum Atkins, of Chicago,
United States, improved and manufactured by the exhibiters,
price £45 ; a Ransomes' improved Suffolk horse drag rake,
price £7 lOs. ; a Ransomes' four horse portable steam engine,
price £190; a Ransomes' seven horse portable steam engine,
price £215, with heating apparatus £230; a Ransomes' four
horse stationary horizontal steam engine, price £150 ; a Ran-
somes' eight horse stationary horizontal steam engine, price
£i95; (new implement) a Ransomes' patent improved porta-
ble steam thrashing machine, price £105 ; an improved por-
table steam thrashing machine, price £85 ; a Ransomes' im-
proved five horse portable thrashing machine, obtained the
prize at the Royal Agricultural Society's meeting at Gloucester,
1853, price £85 ; a Ransomes' two horse portable thrashing
machine, obtained the prize of £10 at the Royal Agricultural
Society's meeting at Gloucester, 1853, price £42 ; two of Ran-
somes' dressing machines, price £10 10s. and £12 ; and a
Rausomes' horse work for one horse, price £18 10s., all in-
vented, improved, and manufactured by the exhibiters ; a Bid-
dell's patent universal mill, price £10 lOs. ; a Biddell's patent
bean cntt r, adapted for steam o- horse power, awarded the
silver medal of the Royal Agricultural Society at Gloucester,
1853, price £4 lOs. ; and a Biddell's patent bean cutter, for
hand power, price £3 los., all invented by G. A. Biddell, of
Ipswich, improved and manufactured by the exhibiters ; a
Ransomes' patent double mill, No. 6, for hand or horse power,
awarded the silver medal of the Royal Agricultural Society at
Lewes, 1852, price lOL; a Ransomes' bruising mill. No. 1, for
hsnd, horse, or steam power, price 161. 16s.; a Ransomes'
bruising mill. No. 2, price 8/. 83. ; a Rausomes' spiral oat mill.
No. 2, for hand power, price 8?. ; a Ransomes' barley awner,
price 6/. lOs. ; two sizes of Ransomes' oilcake breaker, price
2?. 03. and 4?. 15s. ; (new implement) seven sizes of a Raa-
soraes' improved power chaff cutter, price i.1, 43. to 16Z, 16s.;

and (new implement) a chaff engine, price 31. Ss., all invented,
improved, and manufactured by the exhibiters ; a patent mill,
C, for agriculturists, &c., iuvented and improved by George
Hurwood, of Ipswich, manufactured by the exhibiters, price
18Z. ; (u'W implement) a Ransomes' portable corn mill, price
42Z. ; and a Rausomes' circular-saw bench, price 30Z., invented,
improved, and manufactured by the exhibiters ; a Bruce'a
patent s-able fittings, invented and improved by James Bruce,
of Gwyrch Castle, Ireland, manufactured by the exhibiters,
price 51. 3s.; a Ransomes' improved one horse Scotch cart,
complete with harvest raves, p;ice 171, ; a Rausomes' one horse
Windsor cart, with raves, price HI. 10s.; and a Rausomes'
Bristol cart, price 221., all invented, improved, and manufac-
tured by the exhibiters ; two of Budding's grass cutters, in-
vented by Budding, of Dursley, improved and manufactured
by the exhibiters, price 51. 17s. Gd. and 61.; an universal iuter-
mediate motion, invented, improved, and manufactured by the
exhibiters, price IH. lis. ; a Gardner's turnip cutter, single
action, price il. 10s, and a Gardner's turnip cutter, double
action, price 51. 10s., invented by the late J. Gardner, of Ban-
bury, improved and manufactured by the exhibitors; a Davy's
patent decorticator, price 100/., and a Davy's patent scutching
machine, price 100/., invented and manufactured by E. Davy,
ofCrediton; a Ransomes' improved greasing Jack, invented,
improved, and manufactured by the exhibiters, price II. Ss. ;
several sizes of Ransomes' circular pig trough, manufi^ctured
by the exhibiters, prices from 5s. upwards ; a Sillett's digging
fork, price 7s. 6d., and a Sdleti's garden fork, price 6s. 6d., in-
vented by SiUett, of Kelsale, improved and manufactured by
the exhib.ters.

William Smith, of Little Woolstow, near Fenny
Stratford, Bucks.

(New implement) a patent reaping machine, invented and
manufactured by the exhibiter, price 45/. ; (new implement)
two sizes of a patent cultivator, price 8/. lOs. and 15/., and a
registered subsoil plough, price 4/. lOs , invented by the
exhibiter, manufactured by Messrs. Rausomes aud Sims, of
Ipswich.

Robert Cotgreave, of Ipswich, Suffolk.

(New implement), a patent draining plough, price £10 lOs.;
(new implement), a patent guttering plough, price £8, and
(new implement), a patent subsoil and trench plough, all in-
vented and improved by the exhibiter, manufactured by
Messrs. Ransomes and Sims, of Ipswich, price £10 lOs.

Albert Wentworth Conner, of The Patent Brick

and Tile Machine Company, 37, King William Street,

London Bridge, in the City of London.

(New implements), two sizes of a patent brick making

machine, for steam power, price £230 and £200, and a patent

hollow brick, pipe, and tile making machine for hand power,

invented by James Hart, of the Atks Works, Borough, London,

manufactured by the above company, price £30.

George Cottam and Samuel Hallen, of No. 2,
Winsley-street, Oxford-street, London.
Fittings for a stall of a stable, price £12 Ss. 3d., and a sta-
ble stall completely fitted-up as invented by George Cottam,
and manufactured by the exhibiters, price £6 43. 3d. ; a loose
box, complete ; a harness room fittings, and a wrought iron
circular hay rack, with cast iron galvanized cap, all manufac-
tured by the exhibiters, price 193. 6d. ; a hay rack, price £1
Is.; three sizes of an enamelled corner manger, price £1 7s. 6d.
to £1 163.6d. ; cast iron stable grates aud frames, price Is.
6d. and upwards; cast iron channel grates and frames, price
2s. 3d. and upwards ; a wrought iron stable bucket, large 7s.,
small 6s. ; a cast iron bull's-eye light, galvanized, price lOs.
6d. ; a wrought iron carriage letter, price £1 6s ; a galvanized
wrought iron carriage letter, price £1 10s ; a carriage letter of
wood aud iron, price £1 lOs.; a sample of capping, for wooden
mangers, price 7s. 6d. ; a sample of stable forks, price 23., 3s.,
and 3s, 6d. ; a wrought iron galvanized stable wheelbarrow,
price £1 14s.; a cast iron stable pump 3-inch bore, price £2
73. ; a length of suction pipe of cast iron, price 9s. 6d. ; an
elbow for suction pipe, price 2s. 6d. ; a chaff machine, pi ice £5,
and an oat bruiser, manufactured by the exhibiter, price £4
73.; a cast iron cattle-trough price 17s. and £1 53.; a cast
iron circular bottom pig-trough, price 10?. 6d, and upwards ;

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

145

a cast iron dog-trough, price, plain, 2s, 6(3., galvanized 4s. ; a
a samole of cast iron hand glass frames, price 43. 6d. and up-
wards ; a sample of cast iron octagon hand glass frames, price
5s. each ; a glass stable-lantern, price 3s. and upwards ; a wire
stable-lantern, price Sa. 6d. and upwards ; a set of imperial
corn measures, iron-bound, price 43. 9d. and upwards ; cast
iron sashes, for farm buildings, &c., price 12s. 6d. and upwards;
an air brick, price 4d. ; a double-air brick, price lOd. ; a double-
air brick, to open and shut, price 23. 9d.; an air grating, price,
plain. Is. 6d. and upwards; a sample of iron ventdators, to
opeu and shut, price Is 6d. and upwards; a cast iron wash-
baud stand, price £1 IBs. ; a saw table, manufactured by the
exhibiters, price £15; a Norwegian harrow, manufactured by
Messrs. Stratton and Co., of Bri-tol, price £12 ; a scarifier or
grubber, invented by Mr. Coleman, price £7 J three sizes of a
mowin;; machine, invented by Mr. Budding, price £7 10s. and
upwards; an Indian corn mill, price £6 10s.; an oil-cake
breaker, price £3 3s.; (new implements), three patent churns,
invented by Mr. Willard, and manufactured by the exhibiters,
price £i 73. 6d. and upwards; a sample of rick stand, manu-
factured by the exhibiters, price lOs. 6d. each ; two sizes of a
serrated chain harrow, invented by George Cottam, manufac-
tured by the exhibiters, price £4 15s. and £5 153. ; eight sizes
of a cast iron ornamental vase and pedestal, price vase £2 16s.
6d., pedestal lOs. 6d. and upwards ; a wrought-iron garden
seat, price 15s. ; a wrought iron garden stool, price 5s. 6d. ;
two cast iron garden rollers, price £2 163. and £S ; a cast iron
flower-stage, price £2 5s.; two cast iron hall scrapers, price
183. each; two cast iron hall scrapers, with brushes, price £1
Is. each ; a cottager's cooking stove, price £2 17s. 6d. ; two
samples of garden borderitg, price 43. Gd. and 53. 6d. per
dozen ; a sample of cast iron garden stakes, prices from 133.
per dozen and upwards ; another sample of wrought iron
garden stakes, prices from 7s. 6d. per dozen and upwards.

Hill and Smith, of Brierley Hill Iron "Works, near
Dudley, Worcestei'shire.

A set of improved cast iron stable furniture, invented, im-
proved, and manufiiCtured by the exhibiters, prices, stall post,
with top and bottom rail, 21., rack and manger, 11. lOs, ; a set
of samples of cast iron rain water pipes, for (arm and other
buiHings, invented and manufactured by the exhibiters, price
Is. 7d. per yard ; a specimen of patent black varnish, price Is.
6d per gallon ; a wrought iron barrow, with apparatus for
heatint; gas tar, &c., price 31. Ss. ; and a wrought iron barrow
for general purpose?, invented and manufactured by the exhi-
biters, price 1/. 103, ; a cast iron table flower stand, price II.
12s. 6d. ; a patent mowing or cutting machine, price from 51.
ISs. upwards ; and a specimen of game proof wire netting,
consisting of six rolls, galvanized and ungalvanized, manufac-
tured by the exhibiters, price from 3d. per yard upwards ; a
patent rabbit fence, price Is. 4d. per yard ; a specimen of wire
game proof plant guards, consisting of six different sizes, price
from ISs. per dozen upwards ; a length of invisible strained
wire ox fence, price Is. 5d. per yard and upwards ; a wrought
iron amalgamated fence, price 2s. 3d. per yard and upwards ;
an assortment of premium continuous iron fences, for sheep,
cattle, oxen, and deer (these fences obtained the silver medal of
the Royal Agricultural Society at the Southampton meeting,
and also at the Shrewsbury meeting), price 23, 72d, and up-
wards ; two sizes of an ornamental wrought iron garden seat,
price 11. 153. and 21. 73. 6d. ; and a wrought iron folding gal-
vanized camp stool, invented and manufactured by the
exhibiters, price 53. 6d. ; a patent wrought iron cattle fence,
price 23. per yard ; a set of ornamental wrought iron game
proof garden hurdles, price 5s. lOd. and upwards ; a set of
ornamental wrought iron game proof cattle hurdles, price IDs.
6d. and upwards ; a set of strong wrought iron hurdles, price
48. 6d. and upwards ; a strong wrought iron field gate, hung
to wrought iron posts, price 21. 128. ; a premium wrou!i;ht iron
field gate, and wrought iron posts (the silver medal of the
Royal Agricultural Society was awarded to this gate and posts
at the Derby meeting ; and the Royal Agricultural Improve-
ment Society of Ireland awarded it the prize they offered for
"the best and most economical field gate of any descriplioti"),
price 21. lOs. ; a superior wrought iron entrance gate, with
side gates and pillars complete, price \5l. lOs. ; a wrought
iron gate, hung to cast iron pillars, price il. ; a pair of wrought
iron entrance fjates, price 10^ lOs. ; a pair of wrought iron en-
trance gates, price 9/, Ss.j a wrought iron entrance gate, price

£3 Ss.; a wrought iron field gate, price £1 12s. ; a wrought iron
ornamental wicket gate, price £3 3s. ; two kinds of wrought iron
wicket gates, price £1 Ss. and £3 ISs. ; a wrought iron orna-
mental garden scat, price £2 2s. ; a registered wrought iron
expanding horse hoe (the silver medal of the Royal Agricultural
Society was awarded to this implement at the Exeter meeting,
and it also obtained a silver medal from the Yorkshire Agricul-
tural Society at their meeting at Thirsk), price £3 3s. ; five
different sizes of a registered wrought iron expanding horse
hoe, price £2 73. 6d, and upwards ; two sizes of a wrought iron
skim or pair horse scarifier (obtained the first prize at the Derby
meeting), price £5 and £6 ; a wrought iron circular rick stand,
price £7 4s. and upwards ; an oblong rick stand, on cast iron
vermin-proof pillars, with wood top, price of pillar and cap 5s.
31. ; a set of rick-stand pillars and caps for large and small
ricks, price £1 18s. 3d. per set and upwards ; a wrought iron
sheep rack (at the Derby meeting of the Royal Agricultural
Society a silver medal was obtained by this implement), price
£4 lOs. ; a portable forge or smith's hearth, price £5 5s. ; and
a crane and winch, price £7 7s., all invented and manufactured
by the exhibiters (a premium was awarded to this crane and
winch at the Shrewsbury meeting of the Royal Agriculiural
Society) ; two sizes of a rotary screening machine, for screen-
ing ashe3 for manure, sand, gravel, &c., manuiactured by the
exhibiters, price £6 I63. and £7 Ss. ; two sizes of a Comes'
chaff-cuttiug machine, invented by Mr. Comes, of Barbridge,
improved and manufactured by the exhibiters, price £5 and
£15 ; a wrought iron sack holder, invented by Mr. Gilbert, of
St. Leonard's, and manufactured by the exhibiters, price £1 3s. ;
a wrought iron sack holder on wheels, invented by Mr. Gi.bert,
of St. Leonard's, improved by Mr. Cooch, of HarUston, and
manufactured by the exhibiters, price £1 12s ; a wroiiaht iron
sheep trough, invented and manufactured by the exhibiters,
price £1 83. ; a wrought iron barley roller, invented, improved,
and manufactured by the exhibiters, price £10 10s. ; and a
wrougnt iron ornamental garden seat, invented and mauufac-
tured by the exhibiters, price £1 10s.

G. Letts, of Northampton.

(New implement) a mole trap, invented and manufactured
by the exhibitor, price from Is. 6d. to 2s. 6d.

Abraham Pridmore & Son, of Syston, Leicestershire.

A double blast winnowing machine, invented and manufac-
tured by the exhibiter, price £13 10s. ; a winnowing machine
on the double blast principle, invented, improved, and manu-
factured by the exhibiter, price £12 ; and a working model of
a rotary fire engine and force pump, invented by George Prid-
more and Wm. Carey, of Syston, and manufactnred by the
exhibiter (this engine was awarded the first prize of 10s. at the
North Lincolnshire meeting at Gainsborough, 1853), price ac-
cording to size.

Thomas Gibbs and Co., the Seedsmen to the Royal
Agricultural Society of England, corner of Half
Moon street, Piccadilly, London, Middlesex.

A collection of several hundred grass and other agricultural
seeds, a collection of dried specimens of grasses, and speci-
mens of root crops.

M. JoscELiN Cooke, of Newcastle-on-Tyne.

A stand containing various bottles, samples, and other
compounds, used as manures, invented and manufactured by
the exhibiter for G. J. Ashton and Co., of the Tyne Manure
and Chemical Company, Newcastle-on-Tyne, and of No. 11,
Mark-lane, London, price £50 ; a stand containing the model
of a uitrary, for the production of the nitrates of potash, aoda,
and lime, price £100; and a stand coutaioiug a model of a
sulphuric acid chamber, invented and manufactured by the
exhibiter, price .£10.

William Bullock Webster, of Great Malvern,
Worcestershire.
A model of a machine for making draining tiles, pipes, and
bricks, invented and improved by the exhibiter, and manu-
factured by Tasker and Fowie, of Andover, Hants (this ma-
chine may be hired with the option of purchase) ; a model of
a digging machine (from the Dublin Exhibition), invented by
one of Mr. Dargan'a Irish workmen.

146

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

George Bruce, of 52, Nelson-street, St. James'-
street, Liverpool.

A specimen of black Japau varnish, price 5a. per gallon ;
a specimen of blue-coloured composition and a specimen of
red-coloured composition, invented, improved, and manufac-
tured by the exhibiter ; a specimen of a green-coloured com-
position and a specimen of a stone-coloured composition, all
at the price of 15s. 6d. per gallon; a specimen of transparent
varnish, all invented and manufactured by the exhibiter, price
7s. per gallon.

James Tree and Co., of 22, Charlotte-street, Black-
friars-road, Surrey. j

A cattle gauge and key to the weighing machine, price |
from 43. 6d. upwards, and a farmers' slide rule and cattle
gauge, both invented by Mr. John Ewart, of Newcaatle-on- '
Tyne, manufactured by tbe eshibiters, price 12s. and upwards; j
an improved draining level, invented by B. Webcter, Esq., of i
Soutliampton, manufactured by the eshibiters, price £3 lOs.; j
a spring horse halter, invented and manufactured by James j
Bedmgtoa, of Birmingham, price 83. 6d.

George Chivas, Seedsman, of Chester.

Specimens of orange jelly turnip, introduced by the ex.-
hibiter, price 28, per lb.

Peter Lawson and Sons, of Edinburgh.
Seeds, roots, &c.

William Thorold, of the Hamlet of Thorpe, near

Norwich, Norfolk.

(New implement) a bos containing models of cattle-feeding
apparatus, applicable to light or mixed soih ; (new implement)
a box containing models of cattle-feedins; apparatus, adapted
to clay or wet land, and (new implement) a bo-t containing
models of apparatus for feeding sheep on cold and wet land,
all invented by the exhibiter.

George Gibbs and Co., Seedsmen to the Royal Agri-
cultural Department of Belgium, the Agricultural
Society of Zealand in the Netherlands, &c., 26,
Down-street, Piccadilly, London.

Samples of Gibbs's mixtures of selected grasa seeds, price
SOs. per acre ; Gibbs's mixtures for two or three years' lay or
rotation cropping, price 22s. to 253. per acre ; Gibbs's mix-
tures for improving old grass land, and for forming and
renovating lawns.

THE SOUTHDOWN SHEEP SHOW AT BABRAHAM.

It has been well known for some time past that,
for this season at any rate, Mr. Jonas Webb
would not occupy his usual position as an ex-
hibitor at the meeting of the Royal Agricultural
Society. Whatever reason may have led to such a
determination, it could scarcely fail to give addi-
tional interest to his own gathering, held, as
announced,|on Thursday, July 13. Beyond the fact
that this was the only opportunity for inspecting
the picked animals of his famous flock, the visitor
had good grounds for assuming that the show
might be even better than it yet has been. There
could be no reserve for the Great National Ex-
hibition of the kingdom, and thus many rams
might come into ihe letting at Babraham, which
under former circumstances, it would not have
been politic to put up. Any anticipations of this
kind were amply realized. There v/ere never, we
believe, so many sheep entered at the Babraham
show ; and never did those hired average a better
price. We have thus an ample guarantee as to the
continued excellence of Mr. Webb's sort ; and this
authority was, perhaps, of a more satisfactory
character than it invariably has been. Ranging
in some cases to extraordinary biddings, there was
still wanting that go-a-head decision to have certain
lots on any terms, which made the meeting of last
year so especially remarkable. It is true, amongst
the company we met at Babraham, on Thursday,
America and France had both their representatives;
the latter in two gentlemen officially connected with
the advancement of agriculture in that country.
These, however, unlike some of their predecessors
from " foreign parts," were content to take rams, to
be had at comparatively moderate suras, It was

the home breeder vvho on this occasion contributed
chiefly to the business of the meeting — it v/aa he
who gave the long prices — it was such men as the
Duke of Richmond, Mr. Lugar, Mr. Hudson, Mr.
Sexton, Mr. Rigden, Mr. Turner, and others, who,
by their presence and support, afforded us some
tangible proof as to the real merit of the Babra-
ham flock.

Fashion, the ready servant of established suc-
cess, may ahvays do much, as often enough
stand answerable for more than can be really
justified. This of itself, backed with a good
word well applied, may tempt the untutored
stranger to the highest flights ; but this alone will
never become authority. It is when we see " the
Down men" returning here, again and again, for
fresh blood, that we come to record the Babraham
sheep as still the first of his breed — however altered
or improved since his introduction to the flat lands
of Cambridgeshire, one of the most renowned of the
Sussex breeders readily admitted, that it was by the
aid of Mr. Webb's breed he had only the other
day been able to carry off all the prizes at a meeting
in his own county.

It is not our purpose here to enlarge on the fea-
tures of a meeting, the fame of which, as we had
last week to remark in announcing it, is already
world-wide. On no occasion, certainly, could the
foreigner be more welcome, as on none could he
see more thoroughly realized the hearty hospitality
and cheery comfort of an English home. To the
gentry and agriculturists of the county the occasion
is something of a general holiday, while many
we noticed from distant quarters had scarcely
any more "just cause" than a day's pleasure

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

147

for their attendance. It would be somewhat
difficult, as well as invidious, to attempt to give
any list of these, many of the most spirited
hirers, Mr. Lugav and Mr. T. T. Drake, for
instance, leaving previous to the cold dinner
with which the day's proceedings concluded.
From the addresses here delivered, the reader will
gather some further notion as to the business trans-
acted, and the opinions entertained of the sheep
offered. Before turning to this report it would be
unfair not to give a word of commendation to the
exertions of a most able and entertaining chairman
— the Honourable Eliot Yorke, a brother of Lord
Hardwicke, and one of the members for the county.
He was, too, very well supported by one of his
colleagues, Mr. Edward Ball, whose presence, as
the chosen of the Cambridgeshire farmers, was
especially appropriate. We are necessarily com-
pelled to be somewhat brief in our report of the
toasts proposed and replied to — nearly all, however,
in very good taste with time and place — relieved as
they were by " A southerly wind and a cloudy sky,"
given with rare heart and spirit by one of the
brothers of the host, Mr. George Webb.

Immediately on the conclusion of the sale, some
two hundred and fifty of the visitors sat down to a
cold dinner, laid out, as usual, in a large barn, fitted
up and tastily decorated for the occasion, Mr.
Yorke, as we have already said, presiding, and Mr.
Jonas Webb himself occupying the vice-chair.
After the customary loyal and patriotic toasts,

Mr. E. Ball, M.P., who had the great honour to represent
an agricultural constituency, asked the company to recognize
that Association which was the head and cettre of agricultural
society, and which marked the* science, energy, and industry
of tbis country — "The Royal Agricultural Society of Eng-
land" (applause). He had the pleasure of coupling with the
toast the name of Mr. Charles Barnett — one of its most ef-
ficient officers (Hear). It needed no talent on his part to make
them respond nobly to the toast of a society which gathered
wisdom and knowledge from all, aud disseminated its stores to
the smallest village iu the land, communicating to them the re-
sults of the most costly experiments, and tlius at once adding
a tribute to the greatness of this country, and enabling the
agriculturist to elevate himself iu the social scale, and increase
the comforts and conveniences of his family (Hear). He was
Bure they would recognize the toast as the centre from which
emanated all that is great, intellectual, and useful iu the agri-
culture of this country. If any one asked for proof of the
advantages which the society conferred upon agriculture, and
therefore upon the country generally, he would reply that it
might be found in one visit to its annual meeting, for there
might be seen mind aud mechanical industry, and scientific
knowledge combined, and working out together great resales,
such as all Europe could not surpass (Hear). That society
would, under a merciful Providence, raise agriculture out of its
depression, and elevate it above the disastrous circumstances
of recent events; and oa that ground he knew they would
heartily respond totlie toast of "The Royal Agricultural So-
ciety of England" (cheers).

Mr. Barnett, in returning thanks, claimed for the council,

of which he is a member, credit for a hearty desire to carry
out the object for which the society was formed. The difficulty
he might have had in following the honourable member for
Cambridgeshire, whom he should henceforth have the pleasure
to call his friend, was lessened by that ge.tleman's explanation
of the advantages which the society offered to the agricultural
world. Although the c.uiicil did their best, they had a good
many difficulties to contend with, and it was too much to expect
of poor human nature that it should always be successful (Hear,
hear). But at Lincoln he thought they would have a great
treat, for there was a fine entry of stock, and an admirable
selection of implements (applause).

Mr. S. Jonas gave, iu very complimentary terms, the health
of the Chairman— bfcomingly and briefly acknowledged by
Mr. Yorke, who, immediately rising again, said he was now
getting up iu his stirrups ; for he had come to that toast
which no one would presume to gainsay, but all would receive
with the highest satisfaction. It might be supposed that in the
midst of wars and rumours of wars, and crystal palaces and
other great matters, there could be no attraction in such a
humble affair as a sheep show. He denied the inference most
emphatically. Whether, upon this occasion, they looked, at
the subject or at the man, he said that England and society
had much to rejoice at in the exhibition of that day (Hear,
hear). Let any one consider the animal, and say where, within
limits so small, could be found blessings so abundant. Pre
vision, clothing, art, and science, were all connected with that
little animal which had brought them together that day (Hear,
hear). And was music to be forgotten? (Hear, and laughter).
Were they to ignore the Tyrian dye, and the beautiful fabrics
which it adorned ? Above all, were they to put out of mind
their own Webb ? (loud cheers). That was a fabric at any rate
of which they might well be proud (continued cheering aud
laughter). It was a fabric, too, of sterling British manufac-
ture (Hear, hear). That little animal shown that day was
probably the moat useful of all animals. Why, he did rjelieva
— but he had not seen it — that Magnii Charta and the Bill of
Rights were written on its skin : he did believe that Juba's
harp aud David's lyre — he knew that Paganini's violin — would
have been silent without its intestines (loud cheers and laugh-
ter). And there was even something archaeological in the
business, for that was the twenty-eighth anniversary of the
show (Hear, and laughter). This last fact was no small mat-
ter, when adverse times were considered. But agriculture had
risen superior to all difficulties, and could not be prostrated
except by its own weakness: it had proved itself capable of
rising under pressure, and coming out triumphant under diffi-
culty (Hear, hear). He gave the health of the founder of the
feast, Mr. Jonas Webb (loud cheers). That man illustrated in
his gigantic and manly frame the sort of animal he had suc-
ceeded in producing iu such perfection (laughter). There was
the broad chest, the seat of motive power, and the foundation
of all strength; the eye of active liveliness; the sturdy walk —
he was no staggerer — with legs well apart (loud and continued
laughter). These were some of the characteristics of a good
ram — they were also the characteristics of their host (cheering
and laughter). He would now pass on, and congratulate Mr.
Webb upon the unusual amount of prosperity achieved that
day. Before dinner that day — leaving out of (he question
what might be done by private contract afterwards — 75 sheep
had been let at an average price of £3 more than the average
of the 71 sheep let last year (cheers). Might this rival of
Allom aud of Bakewell long enjoy such success. By energy,
skill, and critical acumen he had founded a fame that was
European. He proposed the health of " Jonas Webb, with
success to the Babraham Flock," with three times three (great
applause).

148

THfi FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

Mr. Jonas Webb returned thanks. As for the success
of the Babraham flock, the company always brought that
with them ; and certainly it was always his endeavour to meet
tlie wishes of hirers, whatever might be the sort of animal
they wanted. Most ungrateful should he be if he did not
feel thankful for the great support which he constantly met
with. He did not believe that the Chairman was half such an
agriculturist as he had just turned out to be. (Laughter).
He had talked about wide chest and lively eye, and legs
well set apart in such style that he (Mr. Webb) thoui;ht fit
time to be taking a lesson, and paying particular attention
to the points so finely touched upon by the Chairman (con-
tinued laughter). The truth was, whatever position Mr.
Yorke was placed in, his abilities carried him through. (Loud
cries of " Hear, hear.") Mr. Webb concluded by proposing
the " Health of the hirer of the highest priced tup, Mr. Henry
Lngar, of Heugrave, Suffolk," who was not present (cheers).

Mr. G. A. Lowndes proposed " Prosperity to A.gricul-
ture," coupling with the toast the name of Mr. Rigdeu, of
Sussex (cheers).

Mr. RiGDEN said he had occupied a position near the Vice-
President upon these occasions for 16 years, and he was glad
to say that Sussex had derived great benefit from Mr. Webb's
exertions. The other day, at their county show, he was able
to sweep away the prizes with Mr. Webb's breed. (Hear).
He was pleased to sea and hear that there were better pros-
pects for agriculture than on some former occasions, although
he must confess he had never seen any very long faces there
(laughter). Still he knew that there had been many heavy
hearts within the last seven years; he knew that many
and many a farmer had been ruined past all hope of redeeming
himself. (Hear). Many remembered the time when if you
offered a miller wheat at 353. per qr., he was as much startled
as if you had presented a loaded pistol at him ; but now they
saw wheat at SOs. Still there was nothing like general pros-
perity. Taking a large part of Sussex, he believed the
farmers were uever more distressed than at the present
time : last year they had nothing to sell ; but their
prospects were getting a little better, and he believed the
free-traders were beginning to doubt whether every thing
was right (laughter). He happened to live close to a Radical
town — in (act almost all the towns in Sussex were Radical
towns (laughter) ; but, although he was no Radical himself,
he never quarrelled abovit politics. Well, his Radical friends
used to say things were going on swimmingly ; but he asked
them if they thought men would go on producing what did not
pay the cost of production (Hear, hear). There could he no
doubt that the production of wheat in this country had de-
creased, and would have continued to dtcrease if prices had
remained as they were no long time ago. The farmers had
had pretty hard treatment ; but the unkindest cut of all was
the increase in the malt tax (Hear, hear).

The Chairman reminded Mr. Rigden that politics must be
avoided.

Mr. RiGDEN would not then say one word about politics.
He was talking the other day to a great brewer about the malt
tax and the prices of beer, and the brewer said they must re-
duce the quality. To this he (Mr. R ) replied, that was per-
lectly impossible (loud laughter). If any people were for re-
ducing the quality of beer, he wished they might go to mow-
ing, and drink water all the days of their lives (laughter).

The Chairman said he understood that there were two
gentlemen present from a foreign country, who were witnesses,
perhaps for the first time, of English manners and English
hospitality under certain circumstances. He hoped those gen-
tlemen would receive from his mouth the testimony of that

meeting, representing large classes of the country, the whole-
some truth that both in arts and arms there are occasions upon
which nations can unite. When Mars and Minerva of France
and England, the tutelary guardians of each country, walked
hand in hand, he thought autocracy, tyranny, and barbarism
would retreat before that progress of civilization (loud cheers).
He was quite sure that he spoke only the wordi of their hos-
pitable host when he said that Mr. Webb hoped his table
might never want one gentleman at least from the kingdom of
France (cheers). He had the pleasure of proposing the health
of M. Allier and M. Mallet (great cheers).

Mr. Allier returned thanks (in French). He spoke in
eulogistic terms of Mr. Jonas Webb's fame ; and with much
sympathy in the closer union between England and France.

The list concluded with the health of " the patriarch," Mr.
Jonas Webb's father — " The Mayor of Cambridge" — " The
Ladies'' — " Mr. Thompson", the agent of the Duke of Beau-
fort, who responded on behalf of himself and the representa-
tives of the Dukes of Grafton, Manchester, and Richmond, as
well as of Lords Yarbarongh, Radnor, Ducie, and other noble-
men and gentlemen who had hired sheep." Mr. Barnett and
the Fox-hounds," led to the concluding toast of the evening.

The following statistics connected with the day's
letting may be not without their vakie for future
reference : —

Let at the hammer, 75 sheep for 1,801 guineas,
thus averao;ing about £25 4s. 3d. each ; an im-
provement in every way upon former years, to be
best gathered from the following table: —

Number Let. Average Price.

1851 62 £22 2 6

1852 69 22 3 1

1853 71 22 6 3

1854 75 25 4 3

The 75 sheep " called in" were put up in the

order we give them, and fetched the following
prices. The number is that they bore in the
catalogue ; —

No.

234

228

231

135

109

123

205

219

208

186

122

116

154

237

236

214

156

155

131

117

189

Guineas.

No.

217

102

206

204

232

207

216

209

132

223

229

134

172

190

152

159

221

153

110

202

215

224

119

192

Guineas.
25
21
28
40
29
21

9
14
51
16
15
16
24
20
44
12

9
15
12
11
13
21
18
32
20
13
30

9
22
11
15
39
11
U

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

149

The hipfhest priced sheep was a yearhng, one of
the six picked of the whole flock. He was the
second called in at the reserve price of 50 guineas,
but knocked down to Mr. Lugar, of Hengrave, Bury

St. Edmund's, for 102 guineas. The highest price
last year, and the highest price at which, we
believe, a sheep was ever known to let, was
130 guineas, the hirer being an American.

DRIFFIELD AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY.

The Driffield Agricultural Society held its first annual
exhibition of farm stock, poultry, horses, and imple-
ments in a field within a short distance of the town, on
Wednesday, the 12th of July, where it was clearly de-
monstrated that union is the strength of the farmer
when spiritedly put into action, without looking for,
or feeling that the great and rich are indispensable to
the existence of agricultural societies, however advan-
tageous their pecuniary aid and patronage may be to
all societies whose object is the furtherance of improve-
ment and social progress.

The success of all societies depends upon the com-
mittee and secretary who manage the affairs thereof ;
also much of the success attending this day's exhibition
lay in the selection of gentlemen well-known as first-rate
judges of the animals on which they were called upon to
adjudicate, and appointing three judges for each descrip-
tion of stock. This might have been carried also to the
appointing two sets for the horses, as it frequently hap-
pens that parties who ai'e first-rate judges of cart or
farm-horses are not good judges of riding-horses,
hunters, &c., and vice versa. This society also ob-
served another good plan, namely, having their judges
gentlemen from some considerable distance — preventing
that unfortunate petty feeling that disappointed aspi-
rants so generally whisper about the favouritism shown
to this one and the other. From the duties of the
judges being concentrated on only one sort of stock,
there was plenty of time to scrutinize and calculate with
greater certainty the comparative merits of each ani-
mal ; therefore the awards were almost universally
placed right, giving most general satisfaction, although
in many cases the merits in animals were so closely
balanced, that many good judges could not satisfy them-
selves to which the palm ought to be given ; yet, after
the three judges had agreed upon the award, all seemed
to feel satisfied.

The quantity and quality of cattle, sheep, pigs, poul-
try, horses, and implements exhibited, far surpassed the
most sanguine expectations of the spirited originators of
this society, and the large assembly of noblemen, clergy,
gentlemen, farmers, and labourers who visited the show.
They were admitted by tickets, at two-and-sixpence,
from 10 o'clock until 12, when shilling tickets were
issued. The society sold nearly three hundred pounds'
worth of tickets, and we have since learned that la-
bourers were admitted at about three o'clock at three-
pence each. The number of tickets sold, we ascertained,
reached above six thousand, which proves the show was
appreciated by the wisdom-seeking sons and daughters
of the East Riding of Yorkshire. It was truly grati-
fying to see the orderly, cool, close inspection the
young, as well as the old, gave to each class, and to hear

the many wise maxims and quaint observations that were
passed from sire to son ; also the spirit with which the
ladies entered into the merits and demerits of the stock
in general, especially the poultry, of which there was a
capitfil show. The universal interest and spirit dis-
played, proved the vast advantages that were accruing
from the society's efforts, and augurs well for its future
prosperity.

The time was so short, and the stock and horses so
frequently out of their stands, that we are not able to
give so good a report as we should have wished of this,
the first annual show of this life-inspiring society.
However, we will give the few observations we noted
down as we passed through each class. The fol-
lowing gentlemen were the Judges of Shorthorns :
A. L. Maynard, Esq., Marton-le-Moor, Borough-
bridge ; John Booth, Esq., Kellerby, Catterick ; Phil-
lip Skipworth, Esq., Leybourne Grange, Louth. Judges
of Sheep : Robert Cattley, Esq., Barnsby, Easing-
wold; John Robb, Esq., Thorpfield, Thirsk ; J. C.
Johnson, Cheviot, Wakefield. Judges of Horses :
Thomas Brooks, Esq., Croxby, Caistor ; Thomas Hunt,
Esq., Thornington, Coldstream ; Richard Batty, Esq.,
Tollerton, Thirsk. Judges of Poultry : The Hon.
and Rev. S. L. Lawly, Escrick Rectory, York ; Rev.
Robert Pulleine, Kirby Wiske, Thirsk ; J. O. Jolly,
Esq., Acomb, York.

The shorthorn cattle were divided into nine classes :
the first class was awarded two prizes. There were 13
animals. The first prize of ^15 went to Mr. John Col-
lins, Danthorpe, Hedon, for his roan bull Pollux. This
is a heavy good animal, and would cut a fair figure in
any show-yard. The second prize of £5 was awarded
to Wm. Child, Esq., Easington, Patrington, for his
white bull Easington, bred by T. B. Thompson, Esq.
This is a very useful animal ; but in this class there were
several very middling animals, and we feel that the good
this show has done in bringing the owners of them to
see them alongside of good animals, will cause them to
be got ready with all speed for the shambles.

Class 2. — Two prizes for the best yearling bull. There
were nine shown, and the first prize of ^£^5 was awarded
to Wm. Wright, Esq., Sigglesthorne Hall, Hull, for his
white bull Sir Charles. This is a capitally bred animal,
and promises to be such as is desirable to keep up the
character of the breed. The second prize of £3 was
awarded to William Child, Esq., Easington. This is
a very good animal ; and the whole of this class were
very promising.

Class 3. — For the best bull-calf under 12 months old.
Five entries, and the prize of £3 awarded to Thomas
Barber, Esq., Sproatley, Hull; bred by C. Townsend.

150

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

This was a neat animal ; but this class was not what we
expected to find iu Yorkshire.

Class 4. — Two prizes for the best cow, in calf or milk.
14 entries. The first prize of £4 was awarded to H.
Thompson, Nafferton, DriflSeld, for his roan cow ; and
the second prize of £2 was awarded to Wm. Bateson,
Esq., Brigham, Driffield, for his roan cow Dairy Maid.
These were both good animals : and this ckss gave the
judges some work, as the number (14) and quality re-
quired their prompt attention. The competition was very
closely contested.

Class 5. — Two prizes for the best two-year old heifer
for breeding. There were only four in this class, but
they were all good things, and took some attention from
the judges to come to the award of the first prize of £4
to T. Constable, Esq., Barton Constable, Hedon, for
his roan heifer Jenny Lind, bred by Mr. F. Jordan ; and
the second prize of £2 to Wm. Wright, Esq., Siggles-
thorne Hall, Hull.

Class 6. — For the best yearling heifer, there were
six competitors ; but the difi"erence was very great
between the best and worst, although there were few
useful things among them. The judges had not much
trouble in awarding to T. C. Constable, Esq., Barton
Constable, the first prize of ^3 for his yearling heifer
White Daisy, and also to him the second prize of ^1
for his roan yearling heifer Hope.

Class 7. — For the best heifer calf under 12 months
old. Only three competitors in this class. The prize
of £2 to F. Jordan, Esq,, Eastburn House, Driffield.
This was a neat creature, and the others were very
useful.

Class 8. — For the best fat ox of any age. In this only
two entries ; and the prize of £2 awarded to John Scott,
Esq., Whitewall House, Malton, for his 4 years and
3 months old shorthorn ox. This is a first-class animal,
and bids fair for an honourable position at some of the
Christmas shows^ There was nothing past common in
his competitor.

Class 9. — For the best fat cow a prize of £2 was
awarded to John Dickson, Esq., Nafferton, Driffield,
for his white shorthorn cow. There was only another
competing for this prize, but he had no chance, not
being fat enough for a show, but right for the dinner-
table.

The show of sheep was very good indeed, and exhi-
bited the proofs of good management by their soundness
and condition. Perhaps in no part of the world are
flocks better managed and more profitably fattened upon
large quantities of cake and corn, than on the wold
farms in the East Riding of Yorkshire. Some of these
breeders use only one trough, with a self-supplying bin
above it, that is never allowed to get empty ; the sheep
eat when they like, and what quantity they please. Sheep
soon get fat on this plan, and keep healthy. The land,
after clover, grazed in this way, produces abundant
crops, though it is naturally poor.

The sheep were divided into seven classes, starting at
the number where the cattle left off ; therefore the first
sheep class is —

Class 10.™ For the best shearling ram. The first

prize of £"10 was awarded to John Borton, Esq., Bar-
ton-le-street, Malton, for his ram, bred by himself;
and the second prize of £5 to William Angas Neswick,
Driffield, for his ram, bred by himself. There was a
very good show in this class, there being 22 sheep
shown, and all doing credit to the county.

Class 11.— For the best aged ram. The first prize of
five pounds was awarded to John Borton, Esq., Barton-
le-street, Malton ; also the second prize of £2 for his
two rams, bred by himself. There were 12 sheep in
this class, among which there were some capital animals.

Class 12, — For the best pen of shearling wethers, bred
in the Riding ; first prize of £4 to George Walmsley,
Ejq., Rudston, Bridlington, for his pen of five wethers,
bred by himself; and the second prize of £2 to E. D.
Conyers, Esq., Emswell, Driffield, for his pen of five
shearling wethers. This was a splendid class, and did
great credit to the Riding, although we expected to have
seen a larger show in this class, but not better.

Class 13. — For the best pen of five breeding ewes
with their lambs still sucking, the first prize of £b to
George Walmsley, Esq., Rudston ; and the second of
£2 to Charles Lambert, Esq., Sunk Island, Hull. In
this class there were only five entries : we should have
e-\pected more, but we find that there is a great number
of the first-class men who are afraid of one another,
and therefore hold back at present. Those showing
their sheep did so for the furtherance of improvement
both in the quantity and quality of mutton and fleece.

Class 14. — For the best pen of five shearling gimmers
or theaves, the first prize of £4 to George Walmsley,
Esq. ; and the second of £2 to E. D. Conyers, Esq.
This was a splendid show of what can be done by man-
agement, doing great credit to the whole of the six
exhibitors.

Class 15. — For the best fat wether, the prize of £2 to
William Lovel, Esq., Nafferton Wold, Driffield. There
were only four entries for this prize. We expected to
have seen a much larger show in this class, although
the time is too early for exhibiting in the ordinary
course of farming; September being the best time
when this class could be brought before the public.

Class 16. — For the best ewe or gimmer, the prize of
£'2 awarded to George Walmsley, Esq., for his two-
shear ewe. Charles Lambert, Esq., also showed a very
superior ewe.

Class 17 begins the horses — that animal for the
breeding and management of which Yorkshire has long
justly been celebrated ; and this, though the first annual
show, had perhaps as fine a selection of the different
breed oc horses exhibited as we meet with at some of the
great national exhibitions. In Class 17, for the best
stallion for getting hunters, £"10 was awarded to Maroon,
the property of Richard Stockdale, Skerne, Driffield.
In this class there were seven powerful thorough-breds,
all aged, exhibited,

Class 18. — For the best stallion for coach horses, the
prize of £"10 to Mr. David Halliday, Newland, Hull,
for his bay horse Napier, three years old. There was
very close competition in this class — there being seven
entries, several of which were first-rate.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

161

Class 19. — For the best stallion for roadsters, the
prize of £10 was awarded to Mr. Aaron Hairsine,
Holme, for his roan horse Napoleon. We were much
pleased with the compact symmetrical cut of the horses
in this class, in which there were eleven exhibited — more
than half of which were such as would do good service
in any part of the world in improving that breed of
horses that are so seldom to begot when wanted for love
or money — namely, a first-rate roadster.

Class 20.— For the best stallion for agricultural pur-
poses, the prize of ^£'10 awarded to James Stockdale,
Esq., Skerne, for his brown horse Wellington. This is
a first-rate active and powerful horse, close and well
made, with a full development of muscle and well shaped
bone. If this horse had been out, there would have been
close competition among the other eleven competitors.
There were several of them very useful animals ; but
there were several things unfit for any particular purpose,
although they might struggle to fill the place of a farm
horse.

Class 21. — For the best mare and foal for hunting ;
the prize of £5 to B. Harrison, Esq., Tickton Grange,
Beverley, for his mare and foal. In this class there was
but a middling show as to quality, although the number
(nine) made a large enough competition.

Class 22. — For the best hunting mare or gelding ; the
£5 prize was awarded to Thos. Holtby, Esq., Burshill,
Beverley, for his chesnut mare, five years old. In this
class there were fourteen competitors, nearly the whole
of which were first- rate horses, and it was difficult to
decide which was the best. A great many gave the pre-
ference to Mr. Jackson's, of Ristby Grange, Beverley,
and we must own being of the same opinion. Mr. Jack-
son refused ^300 for him in the show-ground.

Class 23. — For the best mare and foal for coaching ;
the prize of ^5 was awarded to Edward Robinson, Naf-
ferton, Driffield. Eight competitors, and capital sample
of this valuable breed.

Class 24. — For the best coaching mare without a foal ;
the prize of £3 was awarded to John Smith, Esq., Mar-
ton Lodge, Bridlington. There were ten entries, but
they were but a middling lot.

Class 25. — For the best roadster nag or mare ; the
priz3 of £b was awarded to Thomas Ask with, Esq.,
Bishop Wilton, Pocklington, for his mare. In this class
there were twenty-eight competitors, and we might with
safety say that twenty-eight better never stood alongside
of each other : they were truly a splendid sight.

Class 26. — For the best roadster mare and foal there
were fourteen competitors ; the prize of £"'5 was awarded
to Jabez Witty, Esq., Middleton, Driffield, for his bay
mare and foal. In this class the competition was close
and good, showing Yorkshire must still retain its stand-
ing for a good breed of roadsters.

Class 27.— For the best mare and foal for Rgricultural
purposes, only five competitors ; the prize of £!j was
awarded to Robert Robinson, Esq., Skerne, Driffield,
for his brown mare and foal. This was a first-rate class.

Clas3 28.— For the best three years old hunting geld-
{ng there were nine competitors ; the first prize of £5

was awarded to Thomas Holtby, Burshill, Beverley, and
the second, of £2, to Botterill Johnson, Fordingbam
Bridge. This was a superior show of valuable young
horses that arc destined to command great prices when
at maturity.

Class 29. — For the best two years old hunting gelding,
six competitors, the prize of £S was awarded to William
Blythe, Esq., Cranswick, Driffield. This was a very
good lot, and augurs well for the support of foxhunting.

Class 30. — For the best hunting filly under four years
old, five competitors ; the prize was awarded to J. B.
Barkworth, Esq., Cottingham Castle, Hull. This was
a capital show of this important material for the keep-
ing up of this noble sort of horses.

Class 31. — For the best coaching filly under four
years old, five competitors, the prize of £i was awarded
to R. L. Wilson, South Dalton, Beverley. This was a
very middling lot of what the panic after the formation
of railways almost drove out of existence — good young
coachers. However, the breed is receiving more at-
tention.

Class 32.'— For the best three yearij old coaching geld-
ing, eight competitors, the first prize of ^5 was awarded
to B. Johnson, Esq., Fordingham ; and the second, of
£2, to B. Johnson, Esq. This was a very promising
lot of horses.

Class 33. — For the best two years old coaching geld-
ing, only three competitors, the prize of £3 was awarded
to B. Johnson, Fordingham. A good sort, though few
in number.

Class 34. — For the best three years old colt or filly for
farming purposes, only four competitors, the first prize
of £5 was awarded to John B. Thompson, Esq., Anlaby,
Hull; and the second, of £2, to Mr. Angas, Esq.,
Neswick, Driffield. These were a good lot, but the first
prize was an extraordinary animal for both symmetry
and strength.

Class 35. — For the best two-year-old colt or filly for
agricultural purposes, fifteen competitors ; the prize of
£3 awarded to Thomas Dawson, Esq., Poundsworth
Mills, for his filly. This was a very good show of young
horses, doing great credit to the Riding.

Class 36. — For the best pair of horses, of either sex,
for agricultural purposes, 14 pair exhibited ; the prize
of £5 awarded to Wm. Angas, Esq., Neswick. These
were a lot of as good horses as it has ever been our lot
to see together at any exhibition. We believe that we
never did see a better horse than the black gelding
belonging to John Almack, Esq., Beverley; and the
mare is a very good one ; and as far as their size,
marks, and colour go, they are a perfect pair. We do
not think that a black and grey can be said to pair in
colour, if they are in number. And a horse with bad
fore-legs cannot be a good one; it is also a fault the
greatest novice will quickly learn to detect.

Class 37. — For the best lady's pony under fourteen
hands high, 28 competitors ; the prize of £3 awarded to
John Wray, Esq., Scrayingham, Pocklington, for his
pony, Miss Nelly. This is a beautiful creature ; and
the show was altogether a splendid affair. It is

152

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

doubtful if ever 28 as good ponies will meet in the
same field again ; they are truly a credit to the taste,
judgment, and knowledge of their owners.

Class 38 are the pigs, which were a very fair show,
but not so numerous as we expected, A prize of £.2 to
Mr. Harper, Barmby Moor, for the best boar of the
large breed ; and the prize of £2 to Mr, Grinsdale,
DriflSeld, for the best sow of the large breed. The
prize of £.2 for the best boar of small breed, Mr. Single-
ton, Givendale, For the best sow, Mr. Hutchison, Ful-
ford, £2. For the best store pig, William Cole,
Driffield, £2.

The show of poultry was very good indeed, and gave
the judges a great deal of thouiiht and careful observa-
tion to make their awards. There were prizes given to
the amount of about £30, which the judges awarded,
giving, we believe, universal satisfaction.

The show of implements was very good ; in fact, when
the quality and the price are taken into consideration,
we do not think that in any other part of the kingdom
are the farmers so favoured as the East Riding of York-
shire in getting their implements and machines made
and repaired by their own village wright and blacksmith
at much more reasonable prices than could be done in
any other way. There is something pleasing, and proves
the advancement of the social system, when we see in
every village a respectable wheelwright, who also can
officiate as millwright and blacksmith — a man who has
his shop well filled with tools fit for the manufacture of
the iron-work of all the implements of the farm, saving
the farmer the heavy expense of sending a distance
whenever any little thing is wanted. We learned another
important point in connection with the East Riding
farmers, which is, they completely set their faces against
having any implements made of cast-iron, because of the
great mass of it required toobtain sufficient strength, there-
by making": all things made of it what they quaintly term
"horse-grinding machines,'' Timber is their favourite
material, judiciously bound together with wrought-iron.
Wood axles are the universal favourites, because they
find they save more by the reduction of weight, as com-
pared with iron, than can be obtained by any minor ad-
vantage in the way of reduced friction. Waggons are
perhaps managed the best hereof any place in the world,
but carts are not well managed ; many farmers having
no such thing as a cart, everything is done with waggons.

George Anfield, millwright, Driffield, exhibited a very
good and cheap mill, grey stones, for grinding farm
produce for stock, for which he was awarded the prize
of£l.

Mr. S. Johnson, of Driffield, exhibited a variety of
implements, and his broadcast seed-sowing machine, for
which he received the prize of £1.

Mr. Gibson also exhibited a great variety of clod-
crushers, for which he received the prize of ^1.

Mr, F, C. Mathews exhibited M'Cormick's reaper,
and Chandler's liquid-manure drill, for which he received
the prize of £2.

Mr. Shepherdson, Tibthorpe, an improved seed-drill ;
prize ol £\.

Mr, Robert Belt, West Lutton, improved turnip
horse-hoe orscuffler; the prize of £\. This is about
the best and most efficient thing of the kind in use, and
reasonable in price,

Mr, Coulson, York, showed his excellent tenon and
mortising machine for hand power. This is a capital
tool,

Mr. Francis Stephenson, Garton, showed a first-rate

simple cheap horse-rake, for which he received the prize.

Mr, Harland, Pocklington, exhibited a large assort-

ment of implements, with his expanding horse-hoe,
which gives the man the power of increasing or de-
creasing its width while at work. This also received a
prize.

Mr, John Barker, of Dunnington, Yorkshire, ex-
hibited every sort and variety of implements, with his
celebrated one-horse cart, which was again awarded the
prize of £2. This is the best cart that has come under
our notice for a great length of time, combining light-
ness with strengih and durability. The wheels are also
made on those sound principles, so fully discussed in
the Royal Society's Journal. He also got a prize for
his improved swingle-trees, and a prize for his barley
hummeller. This is a capital machine for the purpose.

Mr. William Sawney, Beverley, exhibited a great
variety of his justly-celebrated machines and implements,
receiving the prize for the best corn- dressing and win-
nowing machine. This stands in great esteem among
the Yorkshire farmers. Also his weighing-machine for
sheep, pigs, calves, corn, wool, and other farm produce,
was properly awarded the prize.

Messrs. Wallis and Smith, North Dalton, exhibited
a first-rate waggon. This was superiorly got up, and
made on sound principles,

Messrs. Dale and Jackson, Bridlington, exhibited an
improved Cambridge roller, with a clover-seed sowing-
box attached. This is a capital contrivance,

Mr. Wood, South Dalton, showed a good waggon,
scarifier or gt ubber, and two root or turnip-cutters,

Jlr. Robert Wilson, Beverley, showed well-known
winnowing-machines and blowers.

Messrs, Puckering and Holgate, Beverley, five varie-
ties of their much- admired and widely. known dog-carts.
These are built on first-rate plans, combining artistic
taste with lightness, elegance, strength, and durability ;
and run beautifully light and easy. They were awarded
a prize of ^^5, which was the highest prize given,

Mr, Robert Graham showed his portable sawing and
boring-machine with three augers. This is a very good
machine, and reasonable in price ; well made, of good
materials. Was awarded the prize.

H. J. Morton and Co., Leeds, showed a large variety
of wire fencing, and iron gates in great diversity of
shapes and designs,

Mr. Crosskill showed a great assortment of imple-
ments, including carts, rollers, waggons, horse-rakes,
&c,, also Bell's reaper, and wheels and axles, for which
he received a prize of £3. It was generally regretted
that there was no opportunity of trying the reaping-
machine.

Mr, Coultas, Rudston, showed an excellent four-
horse waggon.

Mr. Teal, Holme-on-the-Wolds, showed his ploughs,
for which he has been so long celebrated, and again
awarded the prize. These are excellent light land
ploughs. He also showed his cheap and efficient light
land grubber or scarifier with fourteen coulters and ele-
vating-frame, and levers, all made of wrought iron. This
implement is well made, and covers five feet wide. Any
number of coulters can be used. This implement was
very justly awarded the prize.

The show was one that there was a good deal of busi-
ness done at by the implement-makers with the strangers
who had come some distance, to witness the starting
of this young society, which we wish every success and
prosperity may attend.

After the show was over, the members and their
friends dined in the Corn Exchange, where the Hon.
Captain Duncombe, M.P., presided.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

153

ON TURN IP- HOEING.

I am induced to offer a few remarks upon turuip-
lioeing exclusively for two reasons : 1st, because I
wish to avoid misleading my readers into improper
courses of management ; and 2ndly, because I most
sincerely do wish to lead or direct tliem into those
courses which shall tend most to their prosperity,
irrespective of common customs. I am well aware
that I have, in my short paper on turnip-culture of
last week, taken upon myself to advocate an unusual
course relative to turnip-hoeing, viz., to set out the
plants at narrower intervals than is commonly prac-
tised. It was not done unadvisedly, but as the
result of my experience, extending over 35 years,
and in an average occupation of about 600 acres,
consisting for the most part of thin alluvial loam ;
and the turnips I have cultivated have included
nearly every popular variety introduced ■vidthin that
period. My numerous varieties have now settled
down into the purple-top swede and the red round, or
(/lobe : both varieties are of the best selection, and
are now popular stocks — the latter having been
grown from one stock for upwards of 50 years, and
larger bulbs I never saw. I name this because my
practice of drilling this common variety at 12-inch
intervals, and setting them out with an 11-inch hoe,
is repudiated by " A Norfolk Parmer." Of this I
do not complain ; but the manner of his remarks (as
shown in the Mark-lane of last week) is very objec-
tionable : of which, however, I shall take no further
n.otice, except to say that I shall at all times be
very glad to find that any suggestions I may put
forth do meet with temperate criticism, and such
I shall not fail to acknowledge in reply.

I wish it to be borne in mind, however, that my
aim is solely to obtain the heaviest crop of turnips
of the best q^iiality of food for the stock, not the
largest bulbs. I take it for granted that the land
for a common turnip crop is •properly prepared before
sowing. If not, it ought to be. For swedes, owing
to the early season for sowing them, I would make
due allowance, and prepare for horse-hoeing. Not
so for common turnips : there is plenty of time in
every season to get the soil all right for this crop.
I repeat, this crop I drill in (on land manured Avith
not less than 12 two-horse loads of farm yard dung)
with a slight artificial dressing of superphosphate, or
similar manure, and 31bs. of seed per acre, at 12-
inch intervals ; and, further, I set out the plants
with an 11 -inch hoe, thus leaving the plants about
12 inches square throughout the field. This, then,
is the point to which I wish to direct attention. It
has long been my opinion that, on well-farmed lauds,

it was unnecessary to set out the turnip-crop so
thinly : still I followed up the practice, with occa-
sional variations, till about eight years since, when I
resolved to drill a field of 28 acres with the same
coulters I had used for drilling beans and peas — i. e.,
12 inches apart. I succeeded in getting a good
plant throughout. In order farther to test my
opinion, I had the crop set out carefully with a
nine-inch hoe (not eleven-inch), and the result was
highly satisfactory. The field was pretty nearly a
compact pavement of bulbs, of good size and of ex-
cellent quality ; and the crop " carried," according to
my estimate, at least 20 head of large hogget sheep
peracrefor22weeks. The sheep were partly changed,
so that no really accurate account was kept ; but I be-
lieve the above to be within the estimate. I pursued
the same course in the succeeding year, with a field
of 24 acres, and with nearly the same result. 1
thought, however, taken in the average of seasons, the
nine-inch hoe left them too near. The following sea-
son was a very growing one, the harvest came on
rapidly; I was short of help, and could not get
them nicely singled ; consequently, in some places
the bulbs did not get to a suificient size. The crop,
notwithstanding, was a very superior one ; but there
was here and there some over- crowding. This de-
termined me to adopt the larger hoe (11 inches) ;
and I am happy to say, so far as respects my holding,
with complete success. It is from this proof that I
am induced to recommend narrower intervals in set-
ting out turnips than is usually practised.

I do not profess to write in any other capacity than as
a practical farmer. Possibly I may not be sufficiently
conversant with the scientific part of the subject to
say how the turnip-plant derives its food — what from
the soil, and what from the atmosphere— or what
room it requires to perfect its growth ; but this I do
know — that it will produce a large bulb under much
more straitened circumstances than most growers will
give it credit for. My crops appear more like a crop
of leaves till about the beginning or middle of Sep-
tember, when the outer leaves begin to decay, and
the bulbs rapidly form. The operation of hoeing
commences when the plants are from three to four
inches in height, or earlier, according to the season,
or as the state of the land appears to require it.
The first hoeing is usually along the intervals, and
chiefly to cleause the land ; the second is the setting
out : each hoer is followed by a lad to single the
plant, in which great care is used. I, however,
vary these modes, Prequently the setting out pre-
cedes the hoeing, and the sbgling takes place at thfe

lai

THE FARMER'S MAGAZlNfe,

second hoeing ; much depending 'upon the rapidity
of growth of the crop. This is the mode I pursue ;
but I beg my readers to be cautious. T. should
strongly advise, however, that small plots on every
farm be tried, to prove what is best for each par-

ticular holding. Many growers to my k. owledge,
who have adopted narrower intervals than cus-
tomary with them, have been agreeably snrprised by
a better crop.

P. F.

TO THE MEMBERS OF THE NORFOLK AGRICULTURAL ASSOCIATION.

My Lokds and Gentlemen, — I had some thoughts, as
president of your Association, of bringing before the meeting,
on Friday night, a subject which appears to me of the first im-
portance at the present juncture; but the duties of the chair did
not afford me a convenient opportunity of introducing it. It is
this : How are the agriculturists of Norfolk to be supplied in
future, at a moderate price, with the necessary articles of
linseed aud oil-cake, if we continue at war with the chief pro-
ducing nation of those articles?

We imported, last year, 94,000 tons of flax, of which
Eussia alone furnished 64,000 ; and in the same year, we im-
ported of hemp, 63,000 tons, of which, Russia furnished 41,000
tons ; and our whole import of the two articles, at peace prices,
was of the value of five millions steiling, and now, at war prices,
of nine millions. Here then is a premium on the growth of
flax and hemp of four millions ! Now, if it should prove to be
advantageous to cultivate flax aud hemp at home, we should
make the Emperor of Russia repent the day he went to war
with his best customers ; for he not only insisted on being paid
in gold and silver for his flax, hemp, aud tillow, but would
neither stir hand nor foot iu the production of the^e commo-
dities unless we advanced our cash and paid beforehand. Now,
let me suppose that the war should raise the price of the
articles of liuseed and oil cake as to place it beyond the reach
of the ordinary tenant-farmer, would it not be an advantage
to both owner and occupier of land to grow the article our-
selves ?

So long as the corn-laws existed, this question could not be
entertained, because the duty operated as a premium upon
the growth of grain to the exclusion of articles even better
adapted to the soil.

Of flax culture, one of its great merits is the necessity of
skill in its cultivation. It partakes more of the nature of a
manufacture tliau any other crop we grow, and consequently
it is better adapted to the advanced state of agriculture in
this county especially.

The present high price of wheat cannot always continue; is
it not, therefore, desirable to have a crop that will indemnify
the farmer for the occasionally low price of grain ?

Now flax is exactly the description of plant for this purpose,
for it is notorious that flax rises as wheat falls. It appears to
be the most remunerative crop that can well be grown, I
have accounts from various parts of the country, which concur
iu the opinion that where there is a profit of £9 in a crop of
wheat, there will be £20 in one of flax.

The cultivation of flax would afl'ord increased employment
to persons of both sexes, of all ages, and at all periods of the
year.

The plant will grow on almost every description of soil, and
w ill take its place in any part of a rotation.

Flax is no new crop in this country, as is shown by old leases,
which contained clauses proliibiting its growth, being con-
sidered an exhausting crop. Granting that it is so, the dis-
covery of iirtificiRl Hiauursg ha= entirely removf d this objection.

and it is grown in the present day in several parts of the king-
dom. Mr. Warnes, of Trimingham, has proved in his
pamphlet that it can be produced "on the edge of cliffs, and
above 200 feet above the level of the sea," The agriculturists
of Ireland are already sensible of its value.

In 1819, 60,000 acres only were under cultivation in that
country; in 1853 not less 176,000 acres were appropriated to
flax, and yet notwithstanding this increase, the demand has
more thaa kept pace with the supply. The value of the Irish crop
last year was two millions sterlins^. The subjoined notes,
kindly furnished me by Sir John MacNeill, an eminent en-
gineer, and the largest flax cultivator in Ireland, will show the
progress which the cultivation of the plant has made in the
sister kingdom.

Flax is grown in Belgium and France ; more care is be-
stowed in those countries on its culture than in Ireland and
Eugland, and more in Ireland than in England. To encourage
it growth, the Belgians prop it by rods somewhat in the same
manner as we stick gardens peas. They keep their flax tv/o
years, while we sell ours three months after preparation. They
find that flax, like wine, improves by keeping. The Belgian
process, if thoroughly carried out, is of conrse an expensive
one ; but it should be borne in mind that the price of flax
varies from £35 to £210 a ton, according to the degree of
care, skill, aud labour bestowed upon it. la illustration of
the demaud even for the refuse of flax at the present time, it
may be mentioned that, for paper making alone, there is
wanting from 80,000 to 100,000 tons of flax-pulp, and a paper
maker has lately offered a reward in the Times of £1000 to
any person who shall invent an article to supply this deficiency.
Mr. Warnes is of opinion that every cultivator should carry
out the whole process of preparing the flax for the manu-
facturer; but for the satisfaction of those who are not disponed
to take this trouble, it may be as well to mention that there
is a ready sale for the article on the ground. There is an
establishment at Diss, aud another at Sylehara, where large
quantities are bought from the growers. As a standing crop, it
is generally worth from £10 to £15 per acre.

Submitting these facts to the consideration of the members
of our association, whether owners or occupiers of the soil, I
have the honour to be, my Lords and Gentlemen,

Your most obedient servant,

Albemarle.

Quidenliam, June 2ith, 1854.

NOTES FURNISHED TO THE EAUL OF ALBE-
MARLE, BY SIR JOHN MAC NEILL.

The best publications on the growth and manufacture of
flax are those by the Royal Irish Society, in Belfast, James
Mac Adams, Jan., secretary ; also those by the Editor of the
Farmers' Gaselte, Dublin, and a work by Warnes, aud an
octavo volume by Longaian, London,

1?tlE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

155

Flax is priucipally growu in the counties of Arma^lj,
Down, Donegal, Derry, Tyrone, Loutli, and Cavan, and some
in Fermanagh.

The ground best adapted for the growth of flax is a deep
rich loam. Sir J. Mac Neill grew 600 acres, in 1853, on
almost every description of land : — Deep clay fit for growing
wheat ; deep laud formed from deposit of mud and weeds,
reclaimed from the f ea ; on rich loam over lime-stone, and
lime-stone gravel ; light friable land ; on lime-stone gravel, and
ou land formed from the dchris of granite, green and Johnstone
slate— good iiax was grown on all these soils ; but the best
was, in every case, on the deep alluvial soil, and the land re-
claimed from the sea. Flax appears to grow best, and pro-
duces the largest quantity, when sown on land on which oats
have grown the previous year, being the laud from sea ; but
it is the practice in Armagh and Down to sow it after pota-
toes or turnips, and sometimes after barley. In every case
the land should be exceedingly well cleaned, and free from
weeds. In some districts they plough the land in autumn
preparatory to the spring sowing, but this is not always the
case. The land should, however, be ploughed just before the
seed is sown, aud, after being well harrowed and cleared from
weeds, it should be rolled with a heavy roller, 'then har-
rowed with a light harrow, the seed sown, and then a very
light haiTOw passed over it, and iinally rolled with a light
roller. Both Riga and Dutch seed are sown iu Ireland. The
good deep land will produce the best flax from the Dutch
seed; the quantity used is generally 3|- bushels of Riga seed
to the statute acre ; sometimes 4 bushels of Dutch seed. The
seed sown in Ireland is now extensively used ; Sir J. M'N.
sowed 500 acres with seed grown by himself the preceding
year. The best time for sowing is about the 17th of March,
and it may be sown if the weather be favourable up to the
20th, or eveu to the end of April, I have seen good crops
sown so late as the 15th of May. The seed is generally sis
weeks in the ground before it appears ; when it is three or four
inches above the ground, it should be carefully weeded by
girls, uijainst the wind. It is generally fit to pull in sixteen
weeks after sowing, but this depends much upon the state of
the weather. The proper time to pull it requires some ex-
perience, but the best and surest method is 'to examine
the bolls every day near the time of pulling. The boll
should be cut across with a sharp pen-knife, as a lemon
is cut. The seed will be cut through ; and before
the time proper to pull the flax, these seeds will appear quite
yellow by degrees ; day after day they will get nrore dense and
greenish. As soon as the edges become quite green, and at
the same time the lower leaves of the plant appearing to de-
cay, or get tinged with |yellow, the plant may be pulled.
This is a very material point to allend to ; if allowed to get
too ripe the fibre ivill be injured, and if pulled loo green the
seed will be injured. The pulling is an operation that requires
great care and some experience. 24 girls, at 6d. a day each,
should pull an acre. The sheaves, or beats, should not be
more than four or five inches in diameter. The ends of the
stalks should be laid as evenly as possible, and should be tied
with rush-bands. When tied, the beats should be piled up
either as wheat-sheaves are piled in stooks, or in square, narrow
stooks ; the beats laid side by side, the seed end exposed to
the weather. The great object is to dry the fax with as Utile
exposure to the sun as possible. When sufficiently dried, it
may be carried to the farm-yard, and put up in stacks or heaps
like other grain. If flue flax be required, it will ccrtraiily be
best procured by pulling the plant before it is quite rips, and
Bteepiug it, the same day it is pulled, in the ordinary' flax-pools
in the open air ; but iu this case the seed is lost. The average

quantity produced from an acre may be taken at 2^ tons
weighed when dry ; or a fair crop may be assumed at 40 stoue
of dressed flax, the stone being IG^ lbs. Iu many cases there
are much more than 40 stone produced to the acre ; in some
instances, in favourable ground, double this quantity have
been got ; but 50 stone is considered very good. If the flax be
well retted and scutched, it will generally fetch 10s. per stone;
in many instances ] 63. per stone ; but from 7s. 6d. to 83. may
be considered, of late years, the value. One acre of land should
produce four sacks of seed ; the weight of the bushel varies
from 501bs. to 541b3., and is sold for crushing for 53. 6d. to 7s.
per bushel ; and, when good for seed, at from 93. to 128. per
bushel. The cost of labour attending an acre of flax may be
taken as follows : —

£ s. d.

Rent 3 0 0

Two ploughings, at lOs 1 0 0

Two harrowings, at Ss 010 0

Two rollings, at 23. 6d 0 5 0

Seed, 3i bushels, at 12s. per bushel 2 2 0

Weeding 0 12 0

Steeping 3 10 0

Carting 0 15 0

Scutching 2 0 0

Carting to market 0 5 0

Total.

13 19 0

The rate of labour being, for—

Men, per week 0 6 (J

Girls 0 3 0

Horses, per day 0 4 0

Poor's rates and other taxes 0 2 0

Grass seeds and clover may bs sown with the flas seed; it
will not injure the flax, and lays down the land remarkably
well. It is the general opinion that it injures the land, and
that it should not be sown oftener than once iu seven years,
but this is a mistake.; it may be sown once in five years as a
regular crop, and if properly wesded the laud will not be in
the least injured.

(Signed) J.M' N.

Saturday, June 17, 1354.

The coarse flax ia sold in the Irish markets at from Sa. to
63. per stone, or from £85 to £42 per ton (this is called haud-
scutched flax) ; the great bulk of the flax growu in Armagh,
Down, and Louth, is about 73. to 83. per stoue, or £49 to £56
per ton; the fine flax of Derry and Armagh sells for 123. to
153. per stone, or £84 to £105 per ton. The Belgian or
French is worth from 253. to 30s. per stone, or £175 to £200
per ton; but the middle sort is sent over at £120
per ton, In 1853, 1 was told £30,000 worth of flax was sent
from Londonderry to the French market.

All the English flax I have seen grown iu Oxfordshire and
Yorkshire was better grown, cleaner, and of finer straw than
any I have seen in Ireland, except the fine qualities. If it had
been properly retted, it would in my opinion have sold for 15s.
in the Irish markets. I saw some fine straw in Mr. Manchel'si
at Patriugham, recently, which would have sold at from 93. to
lis. per stoue iu Ireland. I understood that he grew this
quantity himself, and it was well retted and well mauufactured.
Mr. G. Thompson, of Yorkshire, is now sowing flax, aud some
I have seen of his was worth lOs. per stoue.

M 2

150

THE FARMER^S MAGAZINE.

IMPROVEMENT IN HORSE BREEDING.

We pay an involuntary respect in tliis country to
a good pedigree. We have learnt, indeed, to believe
there is no getting on without it; and so with man,
horse, or hound, our first inquiry is— "How
is he bred ?" Once satisfied on this point, and we
have but little to fear. When most needed, the
blood of the well-bred one is sure to come to his
rescue, and arm him with a courage and spirit of
endurance generally equal to all his difficulties.
It is this that carries the dandy officer through the
many hardships of a campaign; with this the
high-mettled racer meets the too trying phases of
his chequered career; and from this the greyhound
gathers the conquering speed of his course, and
the foxhound the bottom that sees him through a
run.

The effect of this purity of blood is nowhere so
manifest as in the horse. It has brought him
gradually to that perfection he has now attained,
while it follows and serves him in almost every
purpose to which he is adapted. It is not the race-
horse alone which has to assure us how blood will
tell. Take him as a hunter, a charger, a hack, or
a harness horse, and still we can always trace with
advantage the pure strain from which he derives his
courage, power, beauty, and endurance. As a
maxim, the better he is bred, the better he is, for
almost any service you may require of him. Would
any man dare to say that, for crossing a country,
there could be any animal equal to the quite
thorough-bred fifteen-stone-carrying Leicestershire
hunter, we now find so often at the cover-side ?
Can any one equal him for the fatigues and hard-
ships of a soldier's trade ? Or where but in the
well-bred one shall we realize the many delicate
combinations that go to make " the perfect hack" ?

Despite what is occasionally said to the contrary,
our own opinion, as our readers must be aware, is
that the English horse generally was never so good
as he is at present. It is true, perhaps, that he is
not quite so cheap; but for this an increased
competition, both at home and abroad, may in a
great measure stand answerable. Besides, when
every other description of stock is on the rise-
when short-horns are fetching a thousand guineas
or so each— Southdown rams a hundred guineas a
season, and porker pigs as much or more for a
litter— in all this very satisfactory encouragement
to the breeder, is the horse alone to remain the ex-
ception ? Some of our friends will have it that
for common purposes he can hardly ever be bred
to a profit, as it is. For our own part, we are much

inclined to believe that he can, though not perhaps
if intended for that most national and patriotic of
purposes towhich he could bedevoted. If our cavalry
are not so well mounted as they were — an assertion
we are by no means prepared to admit — the rea-
son is sufficiently evident. In a general range of
improved prices, the regulation price for this ser-
vice remains much the same ; and hence, as we
have before had occasion to remark, the inevitable
result — the Government agent, wofuUy outbid,
has been compelled to take what he can get at the
price.

Some authorities, however, are inclined to at-
tribute this falling-off to a decided decline in our
breed of horses, and to rest all their hopes for im-
provement in " regeneration." The means whereby
they would achieve this are often curious enough :
take the following for instance, from the report of
the proceedings at the Royal Agricultural Society :

"Improvement in Horse Breeding. — Mr. Spooncr,
of Southampton, recommended the Council to take measures,
with the Government, as well as with the local societies of
the country, for improviDg the breed of horses for cavalry and
artillery purposes, with the view of obtaining animals possess-
ing a combination of activity and strength in the highest de-
gree. He thought this object would be obtained by encou-
raging the breeding of good saddle-horses from the best brood
mares capable of carrying 16 stones, by the best stallions, well
but not thorough bred, capable of carrying a similar weight.
He thought that such mares abounded throughout the coun-
try, although they were at present employed for draught and
other laborious purposes : he considered that the class of male
horses to be used was the one now too frequently castrated,
namely, a tbree-part bred hunter, capable of carrying a heavy
weight up to the fleetest hounds ; such an animal readily com-
mands acme 2001. or 300Z., when his excellences are knowu,
and which may in fact be regarded as the most noble and
valuable of the horse tribe. Mr. Spooner had little doubt
that the system would, in a few years, result in the regene-
ration of the English breed of saddle-horses."

With every respect for Mr. Spooner's talents and
position, we implicitly believe that if the Govern-
ment and the country will only in this matter fol-
low his advice, instead of regeneration, "the sym-
tem would in a few years result in the degeneration
of the English breed of saddle horses." We here
at once ignore the key-stone to our success — the
agent that has made the English breed of saddle
horse what he is— the envy and the ambition of the
world. It is the cross, again and again, with the
thorough-bred horse that has given us our hacks
and hunters. It is this, and this only, that has re-
vived us when we have been sinking; and/rom
this we are to go to the half-bred mare, crossed

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

157

perpetually by the half-bred horse ! Here are we
to find " a combination of strength and activity
in the highest degree !" There is no such mis-
taken notion — one that goes so far to show the
ignorance of him who supports it — as to argue a
want of power or " strength " in the thorough-bred
horse. Study him on the turf, the field, or the
road, and everywhere alike we find its advantage.
And yet for the future we are to do better without
it ; it is to the stallion, not thorough-bred are we
to owe the " regeneration " of our English horses !
Believing Mr. Spooner's recommendation, how-
ever well intentioned, to be radically wrong, we
shall take the liberty of meeting it not merely with
our own experience or opinion alone. In the course
of the last twelvemonths or so, there have appeared
in this journal a series of letters on the breeding of
horses, from two gentlemen, whoseproductionshave
shown them fully equal to the subject they under-
took. We are by no means anxious to pufF our own
corresjjondents; but in anything the Royal Agri-
cultural Society may do in this matter — and we can
only repeat that they may do far more than yet has
been done — we would not have them overlook the
letters of " Cecil," and xMr. Willoughby Wood.

It is from the communications of the latter that
we may here re-produce with advantage a few
words, in contradistinction to that Mr. Spooner is
pledged to.

First, as to our degeneracy, and how it has been
arrived at ; —

" If we would improve the inferior breeds of horses, it is
necessary to give them a certain amount of resemblance in par-
ticular points to the higher. This process has, in fact, long
been at work with the hunter, the hackney, and the carriage
horse. In the last century, the first was a quiet-looking
animal, well proportioned as to strength, but giving little more
promise of speed than the cob which at present carries an
elderly gentleman his daily airing ; the hackney was, if pos-
sible, still stouter, and less fleet ; while the carriage horse was
a gigantic animal from 16 to 17 hands high, long on the leg,
with enormous crest, high fore hand, upright shoulders, long
head, and Roman nose. Such were the horses which dragged
the ' family coaches' of our ancestors, at a rate of
from five to seven miles an hour. How are all
these matters changed ! The hunter of the present
day ia seven-eighths bred, if not entirely thorough-
bred ; he is expected to race across the country after hounds
equally high-bred, and whose fleetneas has been increased in
an equal ratio. The hackney, too, has been crossed with blood
(not always judiciously), and ia often as speedy as the hunter,
though less powerful. While as to the antique 'coach-horse,'
that gaunt auimal, with his red legs, ia now scarcely to be
met with in his pristine purity. Hia lega have been shortened,
and turced from bay to black ; hia crest is lowereJ; his head
has been lessened in more directions than one; while evident
crosses of blood, which he shows, have imparted to him a
decidedly more modern and aristocratic appearance. His frame
ia deeper, his body shorter; he can get his hind lega under
him ; and as to hia pace, twelve miles an hour are easier to

him than eight would have been to his venerable maternal
ancestors. Such are the beneficial effects of blood — that is, of
a superior race judiciously engrafted on an inferior."

Will any one question the truth of this ? The next
extract we have marked is almost too long to give
entire, but the summing up of it may be repeated
with benefit to many : —

" Such are some of the improvements which a judicious
infusion of higher blood will gradually bring about. Still more
valuable, perhaps, will be the quickness, the energy, and the
strength of constitutions which it will impart. The dray-horse
and the thorough-bred horse stand at the two extremes of the
equine tribe; remove the former from his own sphere, and he
is useless, A pariah himself, he is unable to fulfil functions
nobler than his own. The very reverse of this is the case with
the horse of pure blood. Take the racer out of training, and
he makes the best of hunters and the noblest of chargers ; no
horse is superior to him in the drag or the phaeton ; and when
grown too old for gay callings like these, he will work ia
the team as steadily as any Dobbin which has done
nothing else all hia life. This versatility of useful-
ness it is, which stamps the thorough-bred horse as
the universal improver of his race. If few persons are aware
of this fact, it ia because only a few are intimate with the
thorough-bred horse in his noblest forms. The longer he ia
studied, the more thoroughly he is known, the higher will be
the admiration with which he is regarded. And it does re-
qtiire long familiarity with the various properties for which hia
several families are distinguished, to be able to handle them to
the best advantage in the improvement of other varietiea ; ac-
cordingly it will be found that wherever the thorough-bred
horse ia most kuown and best understood by the people, there
all other varieties exist in the highest perfection. Every
Yorkshireman has sympathised with the triumphs of Beeswing,
of Van Tromp, and of Nancy, and felt them almost as his
own. What county vies with Yorkshire in its hunters, its
carriage-horses, and its roadsters ?"

One word more on the " mistaken notion"— the
judgment that recognises no power or strength but
in coarse heads and heavy frames : —

" To know the thorough-bred horse well and thoroughly is
not only invaluable to the breeder, but indispensable to him,
if he wishes his success to rise above mediocrity. This ia the
lesson, and a very long one it is in practice, which the farmers
of the midland counties have to learn. At the outset they
must dismiss the prejudices which represent him as a slight,
weedy animal ; useless when away from the turf, except as a
cover hack or a lady's pad. It is sheer delusion to suppose
that blood is necessarily opposed to power. Doubtless there
are weeds among thorough-bred horses— bad samples of a
noble race. But are there not abundance of feeble animals of
any other breed, from the hunter down to the cart-horse ?
He who wishes to form a sound opinion as to the value
of any breed must look at the characteristics of the best
individuals before he ia competent to decide upon
its merlta. It ia a fact well worthy the attention
ofbreedera, that a considerable proportion of the most suc-
ceaaful racera have been horses of great power. I should
weary your readera were I to enumerate them all ; but, in
order to show that the highest blood and the greatest swift-
ness are not incompatible with a degree of strength and sub-
stance which would fit its possessor for any purpose (except
the dray) to which the horse ia ever put, I will mention four

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THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

examples in support of my argument, viz., Melbourne, Laner-
cost. Sir Tatton Sykes, and Van Tromp. The first is the sire
of an Oaks winner, two Derby winners, and two St. Leger
winners, Lanercost is the sire of a Leger winner, and an
Oaka winner. Van Tromp, his son, won the Champagne Stakes,
the St. Leger, and the Emperor's Vase. Sir Tatton Sykes
won the St. Leger. Here, then, are four horses of first-rate
reputation, the two first as sires of winners, and the two last
as winners themselves ; any one of which would, as a hunter,
have been strong enough to carry fifteen stone across the
country. To those who know what hunting is, such a cha-
racter offers more explicit evidence aa to power than any other
description."

As it is, the tenant farmers lean too much to the
half-bred stallion, and we have for this reason at
once taken up Mr. Spooner's recommendation to
the Royal Agricultural Society. If, however, the
plan is to be followed out, let Mr, Strafford at
once set fire to his Herd Booh, and buy up some
half-bred bull for a further improvement in the
Short-horn. Let us, in a word, at once forget all
our respect for a good pedigree, when we come
to withdraw it from that "universal improver of his
race, the thorough-bred horse."

EAST SUFFOLK AGRICULTURAL ASSOCIATION.

MEETING AT SAXMUNDHAM.

It is rather a hazardous experiment to attempt
any signal alteration in the conduct of a society al-
ready well established and supported. The direction,
however, of the East Suffolk have this year en-
deavoured still further to improve the character of
their meeting, by adopting an amendment which
it was urged could only be for the advantage of the
Association. This proposition, here for the first
time carried out, referred solely to the time at v.'hich
these exhibitions should be held. For upwards of
twenty years the Suffolk show had figured amongst
those autumn gatherings, where the farmer came
not merely to record what he himself was doing,
but to learn what he might expect could be done
for him. The majority of these have gradually
died out with that topic on which they chiefly re-
lied to give an interest to their proceedings. The
county of Suffolk, though often enough distin-
guished for the opinions advanced on such occa-
sions, had yet something still to fall back upon.
It has so fined down again to a purely agricultural
association — for encouraging the best breeds of
stock, and doing honour to the good conduct and
industry of the labourer.

The change we have mentioned has been made
with more especial reference to the former of the
objects — the exhibition of stock. It has been long
felt that however strong in certain classes, the
meetings were proportionately weak in others. In
the sheep, for instance, as we last year had occasion
to remark, there was little or no competition ; and
it was, we believe, to insure a better display of such
kind of stock that the meeting was brought for-
ward from September to July. Beyond this, it was
said an increased entry might be expected in almost
every department — many breeders objecting to keep
up their cattle in " show condition" to so late a
period as that at which the society's meeting has
been hitherto held. While, even further, still an

earlier fixture might attract the attendance of
suijerior animals, which it has often happened have
been exhibited and sold elsev.'here, long before the
county show came off.

However good such reasoning may really be, and
we are by no means prepared to dispute it, the
little town of Saxmundham was rather an un-
fortunate site fortheintroduciion of this experiment.
Situated an honest twenty miles from that row
strongest of all conducives to a good meeting —
railway accommodation — it was almost surprising
to find so generally good a show as that held on
Wednesday, July G. In the one especial feature,
though, for which the alteration was effected, the
result has so far in no way realized the anticipations
of those who proposed it. In numerical strength
the entry of sheep was never poorer — ■
there was but one exhibitor of Southdowns,
and but one also of Leicesters. It is only right still
to say that, the Downs more particularly, were very
excellent specimens of the kind, and likely enough
to hold their own in any company. They are the
property of Mr. Sexton, of Wherstead, a gentleman
who threatens to take very high rank as a breeder
of Southdowns ; while another year may afford
him a better opportunity for testing the merits of
his flock on the home ground — Mr. Overman and
other well known men from neighboui'ing counties,
promising to send their sheep, when they can
insure greater facilities for doing so.

Before the time comes again, Saxmundham may
have a rail of its own, and we may thus dismiss this
feature — the change of time, without considering it
as yet fairly tried. Putting it thus out of the ques-
tion, the one great doubt still with us is, as to the
policy of fixing on a day so immediately preceding
the great meeting of the Kingdom : that of the
Royal Agricultural Society. It certainly does
strike us that many of the best animals may be kept

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

159

for that alone, when they might be found at both,
were the local show even yet a little more for-
Vv'ard, or perhaps a little later. Having heard this
advanced on the ground as the cause of certain
short entries, and believing ourselves there may be
something in it, we may pass it on for the attention
of the managing committee.

Tiie show was in nearly all respects considered
below an average, although in its one great attrac-
tion it could scarcely have been more generally
successful. It is in the Suffolk horse that the
Suffolk Association has its chief strength, and here
it is strong indeed. Considering how compara-
tively little we see of this kind of animal elsewhere,
the perfection to which he is brought strikes still
more forcibly upon the stranger visitor. There
was hardly a class but in which he was famously
represented, the weakest, perhaps, being the
yearlings and foals, or "fools" as it is here the
custom to call them, at foot. In the aged stallions
were included many horses already well distin-
guished, tke entry far exceeding that at Ipswich
last year, although the first prize went again to the
same breeder, Mr. Stearn, of Elmsett. In ad-
dition to the many good points that go to make up
the strength, weight, and action of the Suffolk,
Mr. Steam's horse has one recommenda-
tion which they do not all possess, and that is
scarcely enough considered by those long accus-
tomed to the breed. To the stranger, however,
the sour head and small pig eye come as a great
set-off to an animal in v.-hich there is othenvise so
much to admire. Mr. Steam's sort may yet im-
prove upon this.

The best proof of the early perfection to which
these horses are brought — the very best classes in
fact of the whole show — were the two and three-
year-olds generally, both colts and fillies. They
included, in a large entry, some of the best blood
in the county; and to this the premiums went,
Mr. Wilson taking both first and second for the
two-year-old colts, and Mr. Barthropp having a
similar distinction for his three-year-old, as well
as the first, for the two-year-old fillies. This latter
gentleman is particularly famed for his mares,
two or three of those which stood side by side,
with a foal at foot, developing tlie grand, \)Q\\'-
erful form of the draught-horse in a very eminent
degree. The race, from the same " stable " with
Captain Barlow, for the best gast mare, was very
close, and the award much canvassed, although we
believe that in the majority of good points opinion
went very much with the Judge.

The hacks, cobs, and thorough-bred horses
ranked in no ways with those^shownforagricultural
purposes. The show in this respect was decidedly
inferior to what generally has been. There was

only one thorough-bred horse on the ground—the
Lion, by Iletman Platoff out of the Lamb, by Mel-
bourne, which also took the prize last year at
Ipswich, since when he has considerably im-
proved and thickened. His competitor, Robinson,
well-known in this county as a good stock-getter,
is but lately dead. The owners of each gave
premiums for the best foal by them — but a negative
plan, after all, of proving their merit.

Of cob stallions, though there were three in
the catalogue, none were shown : the cob mares,
on the contrary, were all present, and all very
good— the prize, and a commended mare of Mr.
Keer's, very clever. If we instance witli these a
brown hack of Mr. Alan Ransome's, that made a
man's mouth water to look at, we think we have
said the best of the trotters and roadsters Suffolk
or Norfolk have this season thought fit to treat
us to.

Of cattle, the red cow of the county was very well
represented in nearly all the different classes into
which it was divided. They struck us, too, as
being really useful-looking beasts, although by no
means so complimented by one of their appointed
judges, Mr. Parkinson, from Nottingham, who
wondered, when shorthorns were to be had, they
were ever kept at all. The breeders of the Suflfolks
maintain, on the other hand, that they have quali-
ties not quite so remarkable in their more fashion-
able rivals, and that as famous milkers, and good
hardy doers, they are anything but open to that
wholesale condemnation passed upon them. The
shorthorn honours were in the hands of Messrs.
Barthropp and Crisp, with Sir E. S. Gooch now
taking his ground as exhibitor of them. The
display was limited, but good ; and the same com-
pliment may be paid to the pigs, in which black
and white were again the adverse colours.

The implement department, though not recog-
nised in the prize-list, was still made a prominent
feature by the stands of Messrs. Garrett, Ran-
somes and Sims, Turner, Page and Girling, and
Smyth. The rain, which commenced almost simul-
taneously with the opening of the show, was much
against a display of this kind. In addition, how-
ever, to the steam engines at work, the new liquid
manure drill, invented by Mr. Spooner, came in for
the lion's share of attention. It is now in the
hands of Messrs. Garrett, and likely, from the
general approval passed upon it, to make way
very fast in the county of Suffolk.

We conclude, as usual, our report with the prize-
list, and such of the speeches, or portions of them,
given at the dinner that followed, for which we can
find room. This entertainment was very well
attended ; the room, in fact, being quite full, ex-
cepting only at the raised table, occupied by the

160

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

president, Lord Stradbroke, with a county member
one on each side of him, a clergyman of the county,
and no more— at least, it was not until the cloth
was removed that any one else had courage suffi-
cient to invade this very prominent privacy. We
had occasion last year to compliment the gentle-
men of Suflfollc on the interest they took in these
meetings. We can do nothing of the sort on this
occasion, but have only to hope the rail— or want
of rail— was once more to blame. We shall look
for a stronger " entry" of them on our next visit —
to Ipswich.

PRIZE LIST.

JUDGES.

Agricultural Horses:— Mr. W. S. Spooner, Eling House,
Southampton ; Mr. J. Ward, East Mersea ; Mr. S. Wrench,
Great Holland.

Riding Horses:— Mr. T. Teverson, Wilbraham ; Mr. E.
Gleed, Hoo ; Mr. S. Webber, Ipswich.

Cattle, Sheep, and Swine: — Mr. T. Parkinson, Lay Fields,
Newark; Mr. J. Clayden, Littlebury; Mr. T. Boniface,
Arundel.

Class XI. — Agricultural Horses and Colts.

£.

Best stallion, Mr. W. Steam, Elmsett 10

Second best ditto, Mr. T. Catlin, Butley 5

Best three-year old stallion, Mr. T. Capon, Ben-
nington 5

Second best ditto, Mr. T. Catlin 3

Best two-year old entire colt, Mr. W. Wilson, Ash-

bocking 4

Second best ditto, Mr. W. Wilson 2

Best one-year old entire colt, Mr. T. Catlin 3

Second best ditto ditto, Mr. W. B. Chandler,

Hacheston 2

Best mare, with foal at foot, Mr. N. G. Barthropp,

Credingham 5

Second best ditto, Mr. S. Wolton, jun., Kesgrave. . 5

Best foal, Mr. J. Williams, Trimley 5

Second best ditto, Mr. T. Catlin 3

Beat gaat mare, Captain Barlow, Hasketon 5

Second beat ditto, Mr. N. G. Barthropp 3

Best three-year old filly, Mr. N. G. Barthropp .... 5

Second best ditto, Mr. N. G. Barthropp 3

Best two-year old filly, Mr. N. G. Barthropp .... 4

Secondbest ditto, Mr. T. Catlin 2

Best one-year old filly, Mr. T. Catlin 3

Second beat ditto. Sir E. S. Gooch, Bart 2

Premiums 7 and 8 are given by Mr. Rickard Garrett
Premiums 19 and 20 are given by Sir E. S. Gooch.

Class XII. — Riding Horses.
Best entire cob (see book, page 14), given by his

Grace the Duke of Hamilton and Brandon ; no

entries 5

Best entire thorough-bred horse, Mr. T. Waller,

Sutton 5

Best cob mare (see book, page 14), given by his

Grace the Duke of Hamilton and Brandon, Mr.

H. Preston, Worlingworth 5

Best foal for riding purposes, Mr. W. Threadkcll,

Charsfleld 5

Best foal for carnage purposes, not sufficient merit 5

0 0

Best foal by "Robinson," a silver cup given by

Captain Barlow, Mr. W. Threadkell £5

Beat foal by " The Lion," given by Mr. Waller,

jMr. C. Jeffteson, Melton 5

Best three-year old riding colt or filly. Captain

Barlow 5

Best three-year old carriage colt or filly, Mr. Charles

Roper, Sutton 5

Best hackney gelding or mare of any age, provided

five are exhibited, a premium of £5, given by W.

F. Hobbs, Esq , Mr. A. Ransome, Ipswich .... 5
Best two-year old riding or coaching colt or filly,

given by Mr. Keer, Captain Barlow 5

Class XIII.— Cattlk, Sheep, and Swine.

Best Suffolk bull, 2 years old and upwards, Mr. W.

A. Crisp, ChiUesford 5

Second best ditto, ditto, no award 3

Best Suffolk bull, under two years old, G. D. Bad-
ham, Esq., Thurlston 3

Beat bull of any other breed, 2 years old and up-
wards, Mr. T. Crisp 5

Second best ditto. Sir E. S. Gooch,Bart., M.P. .. 3
Best bull under two years old, of any other breed,

Mr. Thomas Crisp 3

Best Suffolk cow, J. Moseley, Esq 5

Second best ditto, Mr. W. Threadkell 3

Best three year old Suffolk heifer, Q. D. Badham,

Esq 4

Second best ditto, Mr. W. A. Crisp 2

Best two year old ditto, J. Moseley, Esq 4

Second best ditto, G. D. Badham, Esq 2

Best one year old ditto, G. D. Badham, Esq 2

Best cow of any other breed, Mr. N. G. Barthropp 5

Second best ditto. Sir E. S. Gooch, Bart 3

Best three year old heifer, of any other breed, Mr.

N. G. Barthropp 4

Second best ditto, Mr. N. G. Barthropp 2

Best two year old ditto, Sir E. S. Gooch, Bart. . . 4

Secondbest ditto, Mr. E. Cottingham 2

Best one year old ditto. Sir E. S. Gooch, Bart. . . 2
The best pure southdown tup of any age, Mr, G.

Sexton, Wherstead > 5

The best shearling ditto, Mr. G. Sexton 5

The second best ditto, Mr. G. Sexton 2

The beat tup of any other pure breed, of any age,

Mr. Moses Crisp, Letheringham 5

The best shearling ditto, Mr. Moses Crisp 5

The best pen of 5 shearling pure southdown ewes,

Mr. G. Sexton 5

The best pen of 5 shearling ewes of any other pure

breed, Mr. Moses Crisp 5

The best pen of 3 shearling ewes, not pure breed,

no entries 3

The best boar, Mr. S, Wolton 3

The second best ditto. Sir F. Kelly's premium, G,

D. Badham, Esq 2

The best sow and pigs, Mr. Thomas Crisp 3

The second best ditto. Sir F. Kelly's premium, Mr.

W. Threadkell 2

The best breeding sow ; the premium not to be

paid until after the sow has pigged, Mr. T. Crisp 2
The best pen of 3 young sows pigged since 1st

January last, Mr. T. Crisp 2

The best fat ox or heifer, bred by a member,

uuder 4 years old, Mr. R. Garrett 4

0 0
0 0

0 0

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

161

Highly Commended. — Entire horse Marquis, foaled
1850, sire Catlin's Duke, belouging to Mr. C. Cordy.

Entire colt, f. 1852, s. Catlin's Duke, belonging to Mr. T.
Crisp. Mare Matchett, with foal at foot, f. 1847, 3. Catlin's
Boxer, belonging to Mr. T. Catlin.

Gast mare, f. 1850, a. Newcastle Captain, belonging to Mr.
N. G. Barthropp.

Cart filly, f. 1852, s. Catlin's Duke, belonging to Mr. T.
Catlin.

Hackuey mare, f. 1847, belonging to Mr. M. Keer.

Commended. — Entire horse. Prince f. 1850, s. Catlin's
Captain, belougiug to Mr. T. Crisp.

Entire colt, f. 1852, 3. Newcastle Captain, belonging to
Mr. E. Cottingham.

Mare Doughty, with foal at foot, s. Catlin's Boxer, belong-
ing to Mr. J. Williams.

Cart filly, f. 1852, s. Benhaia's horse, belonging to Mr. F.
Keer.

Kiding foal, f. April 1854, 3. Robinson, belonging to Mr.
H. Toller.

Riding colt, f. 1851, s. Man Friday, belonging to Mr. J.
Flatt.

Boar, p. March, 1852, belonging to Mr. T. Crisp.

Sow, p. March, 1S53, belonging to Mr. T. Crisp.

Three black sows, p. 1854, belonging to Mr. S. Wolton.

THE DINNER.

Soon after four o'clock about 20O gentlemen partook of an
excellent dinner, served up by Mr. Crowe, landlord of the
Bell, in the Market Hall. The Right Hon. the Earl of Strad-
broke took the chair, supported on the right by Sir E. S.
Gooch, Bart., M.P., the Rev. R. Gooch, and T. Waller, Esq.,
and on the left by Sir F. Kelly, M.P., N. Barthropp, Esq.,
Capt. Barlow, and J. Southwell, Esq. J. G. Shepherd, Esq.,
and Lieut. Col. Adair otfieiated as Vice-Presidents.

After the usual loyal toasts.

The Earlof Stradbroke said that he was about to pro-
pose one to them which might be thought rather curious — it
was that they should drink their own healths (laughter).
Such an occasion as that upon which they were assembled
certainly justified the proposition. At all events, the question
placed before the meeting was this — whether they felt that,
during the 23 years the society had been established, each and
every one of them had, in his particular position, done his best
to improve the industry and promote the happiness of his
own district (Hear, hear). It was an historical fact that,
in the earlier days of this country, the eastern portion of
England was that which was most distinguished for growing
corn for the English people. But from the improvements
which had taken place during the last twenty years, it was a
matter of doubt whether or not other parts of the British em-
pire had not proceeded in advance. He read that in Scotland,
in tlie Lothians, there was scarcely to be found an occupation
of 300 acres upon which there was not a thrashing machine.
He was tolJ there was hardly one farmer in that part of the
country who did not take advantage of steam apparatus, not
only for thrashing corn, but as an auxiliary in the feeding of
stock (Hear, hear). Now he wished to ask the meeting whe-
ther that was the rule in the county of Suffolk, or whether
it was the exception ? (cheers). He wa? well aware that there
were living now in many parts of Suffolk, men who are quite
as competent to farm in the best possible way, and who did
furm as acientificully as men iu any other part of the country ;
but the next question was this, was that system of farming
general ? Did the occupiers generally of 200 acres, or of a
smaller quantity of laud, make the most of the soil which they

hold under lease or otherwise? (Hear, hear). He was not
there to attribute more blame to them than was their due, but
he wished to ask the landlords whether they felt that they
had performed their part upon all occasions, in making build-
ings as commodious and as comfortable as they ought to do
for their tenants ? (cheers). He wished to ask the tenants
whether they felt they had taken advantage of the different
publications which had appeared during late years much to
the public benefit, written as those publications had been by
men of great practical knowledge ? for he was confident of this,
that if the tenants had read these works, and carried out the
suggestions which they contained, they must feel that, iu
many parts of the county, the system of farming which had
been carried on had done the greatest possible credit to the
respective districts. He feared, however, that he could point
out many places even in this county where neglect was shown
by the smallness of the fields, by the badness of fences,
by the want of draining, and by the absence of arti-
ficial manures; for it was by the careful observance of
of all these, that they were enabled to cultivate the land to
the best advantage (cheers). If this were so, as he had de-
scribed, it was their duty in every pariah, wherever they had
the slightest authority, to use their utmost exertions upon all
occasions to get rid of the faults which had arisen from the
omissions to which he had alluded (cheers). There were many
subjects that might be touched upon with more propriety in
private meetings, or discussed, perhaps, with more advantage
through the medium of the farmers' club, than they could be
touched upon or discussed on a public occasion like the pre-
sent. He felt that, amongst many advantages which had been
derived in this county, it had been the system for many years
to use a large quantity of oilcake. He believed, he repeated,
that this had been done with great advantage. But, upon
looking to the price of oilcake, it certainly had been so high of
late years that it had become a serious question with many
with whom he had conversed, whether or not it would be of
greater advantage to make a greater use of artificial manures
for the purpose of increasing the quantity of corn, than to use
so much oilcake as food for beasts ; admitting, at the same
time, that the whole question depended entirely upon the
price of each, and also upon meeting with what, he was afraid,
they could not always avoid as regarded artificial manures —
he alluded to being taken in by those articles which were often
adulterated (cheers). He was now about to touch upon an-
other point, which concerned the machinery used in agricul-
ture : he alluded especially to that improved machinery which
it was their happiness every day to see in operation (Hear
hear). He certainly was one of those who felt much gratified
whenever any new implement was introduced for use amongst
the farmers of Suffolk, and it was with the deepest regret
when he saw any new implement so introduced afterwards turn
out to be a failure. And yet we knew it was impossible even
for the most clever men to introduce implements, constructed
with the greatest mechanical skill, without witnessing some of
such efforts occasionally ending in such results. It would be
remembered that, one or two years ago, at their annual meet-
ing, they were all extremely pleased with the introduction of
a reaping machine (Hear, hear). Certainly men of the greatest
science in the country looked upon this machine as likely to
be productive of immense advantage. However, it appeared
that, upon being tried, like many other things, it was not
brought to such a state of perfection as to render it being
employed advantageously upon the land. He hoped the time
would come when the defects now apparent would be effec-
tually got over, so that all might derive the benefit which had
been anticipated (cheers). He introduced this subject, be-

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cause he found that many excellent people in different parts
of the kingdom had looked upon these reaping machines
as machines which ought not to be introduced ; that
they had looked upon them as something which was cal-
culated to be detrimental to the farmers and to the best
interests of the Country at large (Hear, hear). He did
confess, however, that for his own part, it was not
only impossible for him to participate in such feelings, but he
even carried his conviction further, by asking these questions:
V/hat would be said if the farmer was obliged to carry home
his wheat upon the backs of his men instead of upon his wag-
gons? What would be said if the farmer had to undergo
the trouble of hoeing with his hands, instead of by means of
the impletnent used by his labourers ? Surely if the one mode
were objectionable and absurd, the principle applied equally to
the other (cheers). The fact was this: every improvement in
machinery, if good for the landlord, was of advantage to the
tenant, and particularly so to the poor man who had to gain
his livelihood upon the soih Indeed, he defied any man in
that room, or elsewhere, to show him the farm, upon which
much machinery was used, where there was not at the same
time more employment for the labourers than before (cheers).
He alluded to this question because he hoped the time was
coming when the ideas often entertained against the introduc-
tion of machinery would vanish, and when it v.'ould be tlie
object of every man to use his utmost exertions to encourage
the introduction of machinery upon his farms (ioud cheers)
The next point to which he should shortly allude was one
upon which he felt he must touch with more delicacy, because
he knew that in connection with it there were differences of
opinion: he alluied to the education of the lower classes of
this co'.uitry (Hear, hear). A little reflection would show it
was impossible, in a country which was increasing in wealth,
and where the upper and middle classes were every day in-
creasing in knowledge and inteUigence, to say you will resist
education for the lower classes of the people (cheers). But if
it were impossible to say this, he was anxious to add that if
it were possible it would be unwise (cheers). He should like
to ask thern all this question : supposing that, by the activity
and zeal of talented men who are constantly at work in im-
proving the machinery of th.e country, more machinery is
introduced, how could that ma'^hinery be used to advantage
unless the labourers were men of intelligence and of sound
education? (cheers). He should wish also to ask this ques-
tion— for there were present many geutleraen who could
answer it — Which amongst their labourers were those whom
they most valued ? which amongst them were those in
whom they most trusted ? which amongst them were those ia
whom they placed the greater confidence, and to whom they
could leave their farms with more satisfaction than they eould
to others ? Was it not the fact that the labourers in whom
they most relied, and in whom they had the greatest con-
fidence, were those who were men of the greatest intelligence
and of the most education? (Ch?ers). He certainly bad
anticipated no other than an answer in the affirmative. The
education which he alluded to was that which fitted a
man for the performance of all his duties ; which taught
the boy those obligations which he would have to perform
when he grew up to maul ood (cheers). Such was the com-
prehensive system which he advocated ; entertaining, as he
did, the opinion upon all occasions, that the best men were
those who had had a reasonable and sound education, satisfied
too as he was that such men were the most trust-worthy and
the most intelligent (cheers). He was old enough to remember
the introduction of machinery, which, it was thought at the
time, would interfere with labour; the results were the

breaking of a great deal of that machinery so Introduced, and
the prevalence in some districts of riots. But now in all dis-
tricts where education had been properly attended to, they
found a most salutary change in the fact that the most intel-
ligent labourers were anxious to see machinery introduced.
Such was one of the great benefits which this and other dis-
tricts had derived from education (cheers). He was aware it
had been said, if education were extended, it would be difficult
to find people to fill the humbler situations of life. He was, of
course, aware that these subordinate positions must be occupied
for the benefit of society generally; but as that was a question
which turned entirely upon the surplus or deficiency of the
population, and depended in no way whatever upon education
and knowdedge, he should leave the subject and proceed to
another topic. As regarded their proceedings upon the present
occasion, certainly the weather had not been favourable to the
exhibition, but he believed there had been no drawback as
regarded the stock. A great many horses had been exhibited
of first-rate quality, and of perfect symmetry and form
(cheers). Though there had been a great deal of stock
generally, yet it had not been so large in extent as had been
witnessed on some former occasions ; but still it was of ex-
cellent quality, and he should listen with pleasure to the report
of the Judges. He hoped that these meetings would continue to
prosper (cheers). He hoped that all would do the best in the pa-
rishes where they resided to improve the agriculture of their re-
s;;ective dibtricts, because it would be of advantage not only
to themselves but to their neighbours (cheers). With these
remarks, he should conclude by proposing Prosperity to the
East Suffolk Agricultural Association."

His Lordship subsequently returned thanks for his own
health, proposed by Mr. Rowley, and very flatteringly se-
ceived.

Sir E. S. Goocii, in returning thanks as one of the mem-
bers for this division of the county, said — They had been rather
unfortunate as far as regarded the rain ; but he should say as a
farmer that the show geuerallj^ was a tolerably fair one, which
he had beea very glad to inspect. The horsss were very fine
specimens, and they had a right to be proud of the breed. The
shorthorns, he thought, had been very much improved. As
regarded the riding stock, he was glad to observe that they
were getting a better description of animal (Hear). He would
exhort them to pay particular attention to the animals from
which they bred. This should always be kept in mind. As
regarded the show generally, v/ith respect to sheep it was very
short, while, with regard to shorthorns, there had been a very
fair show indeed. No doubt the show of shesp would have
hem greater, if they had but the benefit of raibvay communi-
cation (cheers). Such means of transit would be one of the
greatest boons possible to the county of Suffolk, as well as a
very great boon also especially to the tradesmen (loud cheers).
But to return to the former subject. At th.e last meeting at
Ipswich, a very distinguished agriculturist, Mr. Fisher Holbs,
made a suggestion which he thought well worthy of being at-
tended to, and that was upon the shoeing of horses (Hear,
hear). The horses in Suffolk were often very badly shod, as from
the want of pains taken the animals got what was termed
oyster feet. He recommended attention to the suhject, com-
mending the practice pursued in cavalry rej^imeats as a made
for remedying the evlL As he had always said, they could
not boast of very good ridiog horses. It was most advisable
to attend to this subject, so as to effect an improvement in
the breed (cheers). There was another subject upon which he
would say a word. Artificial manures had been r-.commended,
and the noble lord had endeavoured to draw out the laudlords
upon the subject (laughter). From what he had done his

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103

pockets had become light, and they had been so from the
same cause for some time past. He did not regret this by
any meaus ; but as farming was altogether altered, they had
need of better manures than before (Hear, hear). The same
remarlis applied to stables, and he could speak most feelingly
upon the subject. The practice had been to build great stables
ten feet high, the forage being placed above the horses. The
result was that the forage was completely spoiled, while they
cou'd not expect their liorses to be kept in health when there
was neither light nor ventilation (Hear, hear). If it were put
simply as a matter of pounds, shillings, and pence alone, there
must be good stables for their horses ; repeating, as he would,
that as regarded the breeding, whether of cart or riding horses,
they could not take too great pains in the selection of animals
(cheers.).

Sir FiTZROY Kelly, who was received amidst loud and
prolonged applause, in answer to this toast, said, he had now
upon more than one occasion — he thought this was the third
— had the pleasure of meeting those who v/ere assembled to
promote the interests and prosperity of agriculture. He was
one of those who, in times of the darkest adversity, when
others looked forward with dread and alarm to the conse-
queiices of certain recent legislative measures, ventured, all
inexperienced as he was, to call upon them not to despair. He
ventured to tell all assembled last year, upon an occasion
similar to the present, that, ifthsy would but be true to them-
selves, and exert the energy which belongs to the character of
Englishmen, they might defy all measures of adverse legisla-
tion— that if they trusted in themselves they would be sure at
last to prevail (cheers.) It was no'.v with unfeigned gratifica-
tion he had risen to remark how well they had responded to
the call made upon them by their best friends. Tliey bad
realized the expectations of those who thought and who felt
that their energy and their exertions would present an effec-
tual counterpoise to whatever adverse circumstances might be
brought to bear upon their interests. They now found that,
notwithstanding recent events, to which, in that meeting, it
would not become him more pointedly to allude—they found
such was the state of things at the present moment that he
might with fervency and sincerity congratulate them upon
their improved position and upon the brightening prospects
of agriculture (Hear, hear). And why should they, under any
conceivable circumstances, whether arising from political or
from legislative acts — why should they despair of the ultimate
stability, of the ultimate prosperity of the agriculture of this
country ? If they would only consider that which indeed
most of them, whom he now had the honour to address, were
far more practically familiar with than he could be— if they
would only consider some few real and undoubted facts affect-
ing the agricultural position of this country, he thought they
would come to the conclusion that they had only to continue
to use in the furtherance and promotion of their own
immediate interests, that enterprize and energy which
belonged to their character, to be assured that there was yet
in store for those whose talents were embarked in agriculture,
a greater, a much greater degree of prosperity than even any
that had yet been attained (Hear, hear). They had only to
look to one particular fact — indeed, in the ordinary language
of the day, he might call it a " great fact" — a fact of the
greatest importance, as the result of calculations by all capable
of coming to such a conclusion — that in England, at the
present moment, the entire production of the soil was not
more than one-half of what that soil might be made capable of
producing — that, whatever mny be now the entire produce of
the soil of Great Britain, it may be doubled by the application
of enterprise, energy, skill, science, capital (Ciieers, and

" How?" from a voice). When they considered the means at
their command, for making this 'vast addition to the wealth
and prosperity of agricul'aire, why should they dread anything
within the ordinary compass of ordinary casualties ? He trusted
the time was arriving when they would uot only be again pre-
pared, as they had been in times past, by their own diligence,
and by their own energy, to promote not only their own and
the general interests of agriculture, but that they would dis-
cover— as he trusted they would soon find from those legis-
lative measures which alone could benefit them, a regular
annual statistical return of the state of agricnlture throughout
the country — he trusted they would find, from year to year,
that they were constantly enlarging and improving, and in-
creasing the value of the land which they occupied and
possessed (cheers). They had only to consider the difference
between an inefficient and ineffective system of agriculture,
and a system which it was in their power to adopt, and which,
to a great extent, had been carried on with great success, not
only in some parts of Suffolk already, but in many counties
throughout Great Britain (Hear, hear). They had only, he
repeated, to consider the difference between the bad system
and the good system, to be anxious stiil to continue those
exertions by which the agriculture of the country had been
improved, so as to place themselves beyond all the risk and all
the dinger of adverse times similar to those under which they
had so long suffered (Hear, hear).

Mr. SpoOiN'ER, in returning thanks to " The healths of the
Judges," expressed the gratification which he had derived
from having been called upon to act as judge, and the more
especially of such horses, which stood unrivalled through-
out the world (cheers). If any proof were wanting as to the
excellence of the stock, he would mention a fact which had
come before his notice. Upon being called upon to decide
upon the merits of the horses, his tv/o fellow judges stated to
him that, as they knew the owners, and that as he (Mr.
Spooner) was from a neighbouring county, they would conse-
quently be obliged if he would undertake the office, in the first
place, of pointing out the two best animals. He felt the
responsibility to be certainly very great, and he at first felt
disposed to shrink from the challenge. He was rejoiced, how-
ever, to find that, in selecting the best animals, the confi deuce
of his two fellow judges was fully justified by the striking fact
that each of the horses which he selected had received a prize
from the Royal Society of England (cheers). Taking the
show of stock altogether, they had abundant reason to rejoice,
for the class of two-year-old stallions, the class of two-year-
old mares, rivalled the excellence of the best animals on the
ground (cheers). While he and his fellow-judges sought
shelter in a tent to escape the rain, he put a question to them,
as they were residents in Suffolk. He asked them this, " How
is it that when we see so many excellent Suffolk horses in the
county, we see so many bad ones out of it?" (Hear, hear).
The reply was, " It is because the best are kept at home, and
the bad ones are sent away" (Great laughter). Notwith-
standing, however, the superiority of the Suffolk breed, there
were still many farmers who gave the preference to inferior
animals, which tended to bring disgrace on the breed— a prac-
tice which he for one should always deprecate. He begged of
such breeders to recollect the fact that a bad horse required aa
much to keep him up as a good one — that the same amount of
feed v/as required to keep each animal in condition. It was,
therefore, a matter of policy to strive to promote the excellence
of the breed. He appreciated the observations which had
fallen from the Hon. Baronet. What had been pointed out,
V. as one of the most crying defects in breeding, and could uot
be disputed. He considered it to be a national evil not to

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take proper care, and it was a duty incumbent upon all to see
that evil removed as speedily as possible. In conclusion, he
could only trust that the society would go on and prosper
(Loud cheers).

Mr. Parkinson also returned his acknowledgments, trust-
ing that the decisions had given satisfaction. With regard to
some of the stock which he had had to decide upon, he wished
he could offer the same congratulations as Mr. Spooner had
been able to do upon the horses. They had, no doubt, had
some useful animals, particularly in the shorthorns, and also
in the pigs ; but with regard to the original stock of the
county, he wondered that a county with the intelligence that
Suffolk possessed, together with its stud of horses, and its
first-rate implements — he wondered that they should still keep
on breeding that kind of animal known as the polled beasts.
They might be hardy, and they might be good milchers ; but
he really thought that, from the celebrity which the short-
horns had acquired, at any rate it would not be long before
the whole would be superseded (cheers and laughter).

Mr. A. Eansome returned thanks for the Committee,

stating it had been their zealous desire to promote the in-
terests of the society, as well as the interests which attached
to the agricultural labourer (cheers). As regarded the show
of stock, he remarked that the Association was lamentably de-
ficient in that valuable animal called " the hack." To him it
was a matter of astonishment that so few animals of this kind
should have been exhibited. He quite agreed in what had
fallen from the honourable baronet, when he stated that in the
breeding of animals more attention should be paid for the fu-
ture. He concluded by suggesting that an adequate premium
be offered for the best riding horse. He hoped that three or
four members would join in the object, towards which he
would offer a contribution of £5 (cheers). A large premium,
as he need scarcely remark, would insure a larger amount of
competition (cheers).

The other addresses following, " The Army and Navy," as
well as " The Bishop and Clergy of the Diocese," bore chiefly
on our present relation with foreign powers, and indeed,
during the earlier part of the evening, the meeting assumed a
very warlike tone and character.

BREEDING STOCK— THE CONDITION IN WHICH THEY
SHOULD BE EXHIBITED.

We will assume that when the late Lord Ducie,
in his official position as President of the Royal
Agricultural Society, complained of the condition
in which breeding-stock were but too often ex-
hibited, he was attacking an evil that really existed.
The general cheers which greeted him when at the
Lewes meeting he addressed himself to this abuse,
the reiterated approval which followed his remarks
wheresoever they were promulgated, and the readi-
ness with which the Council of the Society met his
wishes for amendment, all warrant us in supposing
that his Lordship did not speak without a cause.
The evil, in fact, was only too apparent ; while the
difficulty of treating it was but equally evident. It
was well known that a continued negligence as to
this point had brought the system of over-feeding
to be considered something like an established
custom. It was so feared, and not without rea-
son, that exhibitors might submit with no very
good grace to a restriction, which prevented them
showing their stock in any state they thought
proper, however injurious to the animal, or contrary
to the real object of the Society.

In a word, we were on delicate ground. The
application of the remedy, however, was well
devised, and as discreetly carried into effect. Timely
warned that they must sin no more, the majority
of exhibitors at once pi-epared to meet the intentions
of the Council. The result, too, was in every way
gratifying and encouraging. We missed at Glou-
cester much of that excess so prevalent at Lewes ;
while we have the records of the Society to assure
us that the meeting, even on this first trial, suffered

but little indeed from the caution which had been
issued. In only one description of cattle was any
falling off observable ; and of this one we had
heard rumour on rumour as to how in certain
quarters a pampered and highly-artificial condition
had been made to pass as the best recommendation
for a breeding animal. The index pointed at once to
where the offence had been most systematic, and
to where, accordingly, we might expect to find it
most obstinate.

We must repeat, then, that Gloucester gave us
every encouragement to persevere in the good be-
ginning that had been achieved. The juries per-
formed the duty imposed upon them with a most
commendable discretion, only making an example
where example was absolutely necessary ; and yet
on the issue of what these gentlemen did, the whole
plan is after one brief trial to fall to the ground,
and we are to go on again as we have been going
on so long. In an otherwise most encouraging
report just published in the new number of the
Society's Journal, we find the following conclusions
on this point : — •

" The council last year appointed a committee to report
suggestions on the subject of that over-fed condition of
animals, which in many instances at previous meetings had
been animadverted upon as being inconsistent with their value
as stock intended for breeding purposes. The arrangements,
however, made by that committee have not attained the object
in view. The disqualifications pronounced at Gloucester were
not eventually confirmed in every case : animals apparently
over-fed at the time having subsequently been proved to be
breeding stock. The council have, therefore, reverted to the
society's original rule of placing on the judges of the show the

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165

responsibility of awarding the prizes to those animals which
in their opinion are the beat adapted for the purposes of
breeding."

Here is the grand argument against the jury
system. We are afraid to say how often it has
been used, or how little there really is in it when
it comes to be closely examined. " The disqualifi-
cation at Gloucester, which was not eventually con-
firmed," is more distinctly given ixs in a previous
number of the Journal. In the stewards' report
of the stock exhibited at Gloucester, we learn
" that the sow belonging to Mr. Northey, which
was disqualified for over-fatness, has since pro-
duced eight young ones." Admitted it was so ;
but what, after all, does this prove ? Surely no
one will go so far as to say that over-feeding will
in every instance — although it does in too many —
result in thorough impotency or barrenness !
True, that this sow did afterwards produce
eight pigs ; but will any one who saw her at
Gloucester be hardy enough to affirm that she
was shown there in proper breeding condition,
or that the Jury did that which they ought not to
have done in condemning her ? "\\'e hear of prize
cows being physicked, exercised, and gradually
brought down again, after a meeting in order that
they may be fitted for breeding purposes. Then,
strange to say, some of them do breed. And it is
with such logic as this we ai'e to rest satisfied that
they were exhibited "in proper breeding condition."
The same with bulls, which, after two or three
months' reducing, are found in some measure fit
for use, and do get stock. It is well known,
though, that many of them lose their colour and
tone in this process, and that they are never again
the animals they were previous to being fattened
up for a breeding show.

With all the good they are, and have accom-
pUshed, let the Council of the Royal Agricultural
Society not forget that they have already admitted
this in their proceedings as a growing evil. It is
one, too, so thoroughly fundamental in its effects,
as to claim their most serious attention. In meet-
ing it, they may no doubt give some temporary of-
fence to a few exhibitors whose success may be
endangered by amendment. The community,
however, cannot but profit by some such whole-
some regulation as that their late excellent Presi-
dent advised, and which his talented succes-
sor has endorsed. The man who, then, is
desirous of improving the character of his
stock will buy or use a prize animal with some
chance of that advantage implied in the award.
May we hope to see the Royal Agricultural Society
of England give all their aid in arriving at so de-
sirable a warranty! As it is, how often are the
powers of an animal injured by the pernicious kind
of competition he has to encounter !

We care not how this limit is enforced, so that it
is still held out in terrorem. Whether by judge or
jury we will not stop to question. It appears now
that the duty is to be again, as it has been from the
first, with the judges of stock. We shall be bold
to say that it is a duty never yet impressed upon
them, and never even affected to be performed. To
the judges, however, we have now to look to keep
up the character of the Royal Agricultural Society
as an exhibition of breeding stock. During our
recent visits to different parts of the kingdom, we
have noticed with pleasure the invitation given to
the judges to suggest anything which might strike
them as improvements, or to denounce what they
might consider detrimental. We have further
been gratified with the straightforward manner
in which this appeal has generally been responded
to. It is from such authorities as these we
should learn to know and keep the right road j and
it is in these we are quite willing to put our con-
fidence at the Lincoln meeting. Let them bear in
mind the duty they have undertaken, as defined to
them in this last report — " to award the prizes to
those animals which in their opinion are (physi-
cally and symmetrically) the best adapted for the
purposes of breeding." The words in italics are
our own ; but we will undertake to say they only
convey yet more distinctly the real intention of the
Society.

THE TIMBER TRADE OF AMERICA.— Ship timber
of late years has become exceedingly valuable, as the demand
for ships has increased, and at the present time that demand
is greater than ever before, and in the upward tendency of
freights is not likely to slacken. We have seen the greatest
change in the commercial affairs of the world in the last five
years, since the California trade opened, that has ever taken
place. The spirit of traffic seems to have seized upon the
whole world, and notwithstanding the great number and size
of ships, the fastness of their sailing, and the shortening of
the distances, we are far from being supplied with vessels, and
much further, than when the trade to the Pacific first opened.
We formerly had shipyards at the mouths of the river, that
the materials might be floated down the streams; but the ship-
timber forests have long since disappeared. Then the railways
made the woods of the interior accessible ; and by them now
are most of our shipyards supplied. Trees that are worthless
in the interior of New Hampshire and Vermont have gone up
in value; and even to the wilderness of Canada the landholder,
in estimating his lands, will mark all the trees, and perfectly
well knows their worth for spars or ship-building. The hunt-
ing up of knees and keel pieces away back upon the hills a
hundred miles is what the last generation of carpenters never
thought of ; and to have agents constantly employed for that
purpose would have seemed ruinous to our fathers ; it is not
only done for these parts, but from our coasts they are trans-
ported to Maine, and yet they are not supplied. Lately, more
than heretofore, the carpenters have looked south for the ma-
terials for the construction of first-class ships, to the immense
piue and oak fields from Virginia to Florida. The felling of
Boutheru forests for our shipyards, by northern labourers and

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northera capital, is a great business, aud speculators are all
over the lands now, as some twenty years ago thay were in
Maiue. These laud? will ba ample for tlie next century's uses
at least ; aud, being' where the warm winters will allow of the
cuttiu^, whcu it is difficult to work here, will ever call for

northera mtn. Some of our cai'peuters have recently been
sauth, anci, we understand, mide extensive purchases of lands.
To those who pursue the business of ship-building', and
properly select their lands, these must be profitable investments,
their value increasing every year. — Newhiiry-port Herald.

FOOD FOR THE MILLION

RICE

Rice, although the food of a larger number of the in-
habitants of the globe thaa any other kind of corn, is yet
scarcely included in the daily bill of fare of the English
labourer. This no doubt arises fronn the fact of its not
being the produce of our clinaate. But such is no
reason — seeing that we have become so dependent
upon foreign produce — but the contrary, if its merits
recommend it ; for it frequently occurs that when a
deficient harvest is experienced in one climate, another
has an abundant one, so that it manifestly becomes
the interest of the inhabitants of the two to reciprocate
with one another in tlie consumption of food, each ac-
customing itself to use so much of that of the other as
circumstances may require. And we m'iy just remind
our readers that habit is necessary to reconcile the
stomach of communities to this or that species of food.

Rice is deficient of gluten and fat, two of the most
important elements of food for a hard-working man — a
circumstance greatly against its introduction and use in
this country. From infancy we ourselves have been
rather partial to it, in puddings of every kind, and, by
way of experiment, used it one year during nearly four
months, dining wholly upon it daily ; but it will not do
to work upon, for we not only lost weight, but strength,
and were glad to get hold of a beefsteak or mutton chop
again at dinner.

It was cooked for us in various ways, but principally
plain, the rice being boiled whole, and eaten with sugar,
marmalade, jam, butter, cream, olive oil, or palm oil.
When the rice is boiled with milk, and then baked with
eggs, and eaten with cream and sugar, it proves a more
substantial pudding, but too expensive for the table of
the labourer, both as to cooking and nutritive value.

We also used rice-meal porridge to breakfast for
nearly fourteen days in succession, cooking and eating
it with milk the same as oatmeal porridge, with this ex-
ception, that we used a little ground nutmeg, ginger, and
sugar, along with salt, for seasoning. But, although
eaten with milk, it has not stamina for a working man ;
otherwise it is a very cheap diet, and easily cooked, not
requiring one-third of the time which whole rice does.

Rice is frequently eaten along with curries or fricas-
sees, made either of fish, fowl, game, or butcher-meat,
or any compound of them— or, in short, any hash of
animal food ; and this is probably the best plan in which
it is now brought to table. Eaten in this way it sup-
plies the place of potatoes, with which it corresponds in
chemical analysis, and makes a sufficiently savoury and
substantial diet for a ploughman. On this he can per-
form his task daily from one year's end to the other
without reason to complain, The following is a com-

parative analysis of dried rice and potatoes, from " The
Chemistry of Common Life," in proof of what we have
just said of them : —

Rice. Potatoea.

Gluten 7.V 8

Starch &c.. 92i 92

100

From this it will be seen that the nutritive value of
rice is rather under than above potatoes ; but so near
equality that the difference would be immaterial in prac-
tice, were other things equal. Other things, however,
are not quite equal, being more in favour of the latter,
we believe, than the former. The mechanical construc-
tion of the two, for instance, is very different ; the
granules of the one being angular, and the other glo-
bular. Those of rice, for instance, are angular, and
not half the size of the irregularly globuse-like granules
of the potato ; and besides, there are other chemical
differences than gluten, tor rice is rather constipating,
while potatoes are the opposite.

The investigation of this subject, however, is yet in ft
very imperfect state, for both chemistry and physiology
have much to do before we possess accurate information
as to the constituent elements, cookery, and nutritive
qualities of rice. We ourselves have had several years'
experience of potato-fed labourers, but none of rice ;
and the experiments we have made personally for our
own information are not sufficient to establish the
question as to the superiority of the one over the
other. Our opinion, however, has been generally con-
curred in, and is also corroborated to some extent by
physical evidence. An Irishman, for instance, is not so
" pot-bellied" as a Hindoo, which proves, as some have
argued, the soundness of the conclusion ; for the reason
why the latter has been obliged to distend his stomach
to a greater degree, arises from the fact that his diet —
rice~~\s less nutritive, and he therefore must consume a
larger quantity of it, while the former is capable of per-
forming a larger amount of work. This latter conclusion
may be qualified to some extent by the difference of
climate under which the two labourers have to work ;
and it may also be said that the Hindoo has a more
liberal supply of rice— «. e., is better fed.

Rice is found growing wild around the edges of many
lakes in Hindustan. What is thus grown is smaller
than any of the cultivated kinds, but superior in quality,
fetching a high price, and is principally used by the
higher classes, who esteem it a " dainty dish."

The different varieties of rice are cooked much after
the same manner, but in various ways. It may be

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

boiled, for instance, or stewed, or steamed ; and in Java
a practice prevails of half-boiling half-steaming. It is
sometimes boiled loose in an iron pot or pan, or vessel
of stoneware ; and when sufficiently done, the water in
which it is boiled is strained off, and the rice allowed to
steam for a short time over the fire, prior to being
dished. Currie, sweetmeats, olive, palm-oil, or sauce of
some kind is sometimes poured over it, and in other
cases the natives dip the rice in the oil, &c., or eat it
along with fish, fowl, or meat of some kind. It is in
other cases tied loose in a cloth, and then put into boil-
ing water. The Javanese rice-pudding already referred
to is cooked thus : — " Thsy take a conical earthen pot,
which is open at the large end, and perforated all over ;
this they fill about half full with rice, and putting
it into a larger earthen pot, of the same shape, filled
with boiling water, the rice in the first pot soon
swells, and stops the perforations, so as to keep
out the water ; by this method the rice is
brought to a firm consistence, and forms a pudding,
'which is generally eaten with butter, oil, sugar, vinegar,
and spices." We quote the foregoing from Dr. Hooper's
Medical Dictionary, and the same author adds that
" the Indians eat stewed rice with great success, against
the bloody flux ; and in most inflamm.atory diseases,
they cure themselves with only a decoction of it."

In this country numerous recipes are given for the
cooking of rice. " Domestic Cookery, by a Lady," for
instance, gives no fewer than twenty-two of them, be-
sides various other dishes, in which it forms a part. But
out of this long list, few are fit for the table of the hard-
working man, principally owing to expense, but in some
cases to too watery a form. We quote one or two of
the most likely to be useful.

" Carrole of Rice. — Take some well picked rice,
wash it well, and boil it five minutes in water ; strain it,
and put it into a stew-pan, with a bit of butter, a good
slice of ham, and an onion; stew it over a very gentle
fire till tender ; have ready a mould lined with very thin
slices of bacon ; mix the yolks of two or three eggs with
the rice, and then line the bacon with it, about half an
inch thick ; put into it a ragout of chicken, rabbit, veal,
or anything else. Fill up the mould, and cover it close
with rice ; bake it in a quick oven an hour, turn it
over, and send it to table in a good gravy or curry
sauce."

Divesting the above of artistic ceremony and outward
appearance, our readers will perceive that more than a
labouring man may make a comfortable dinner of the
odds and ends of cold-meat of any kind, stewed with
rice and eggs ; for, if properly done in the stew-pan,
the latter process of moulding and baking will add little
to its nutritive value. Rice, bacon, and eggs, in the pan,
would make the heart of many a poor man glad, before
he got the length of his own cottage door to dinner ; and
if he could afford rabbit, veal, or fowl — then, dividing
the bacon and eggs, and making two or more dinners
with the necessary quantity of rice to each, would be a
very great improvement. When parties do not like
onions, any other of the many articles for seasoning may
be added, according to taste.

" Rice PaDDiNG with Fruit. — Swell the rice with
a very little milk, over the fire ; then mix fruit of any
kind with it (currants, gooseberries scalded, pared and
quartered apples, raisins, or black currants) ; with one
egg in the rice to bind it, boil it well, and serve with
sugar."

"Baked Rice, Pudding. — Swell rice as above;
then add some more milk, one egg, sugar, allspice, and
lemon peel ; bake in a deep dish."

Miss Leslie, of Philadelphia, the author of " American
Domestic Cookery," gives the following recipe for mak-
ing a baked rice pudding, without eggs, viz : —

"Half a pint of rice, a quart of rich miUc,fQur
heaped teaspoonfuls of brown sugar, a heaped tea-
spoonful of powdered cinnamon. Pick the rice clean,
and wash it through two cold waters, draining it after-
wards till as dry as possible. Stir it into a deep dish con-
taining a quart of rich milk ; add the sugar and ground
cinnamon. Set the dish into the oven, and bake the
pudding three hours. It may be eaten warm, but is
best cold. This is a very good pudding, and economical
when eggs are scarce. Some fresh butter stirred in just
before it goes to the oven, will improve the mixture."

We are not insensible to the use of an oven, but many
poor people are minus such a privilege ; and even
if they had one, they have not the means of heating it
three or four hours daily. Ground rice, boiled from
five to ten minutes in rich milk , with sugar and cinna-
mon, will just make as nourishing a pudding as the
above American. If eggs, butter, or fruit are added,
so much the better. The latter will require a little more
boiling ; but any cottager's wife can easily tell when a
gooseberry is boiled. Made in the manner we propose,
it will require constant stirring, and should be thick and
croquant. After being put into a deep pudding-dish,
if it be placed on hot ashes before the fire for a few
minutes before being sent to table, it will make it more
firm and palatable. It should never be touched until
cooled to blood heat throughout ; and many, if not the
majority, as Miss Leslie observes, would prefer it cold.

The great objection to rice, as we have already hinted,
is the small quantity of nitrogenous matter which it
contains, reducing it to competition with potatoes. No
doubt, in this sense, it is even invaluable to a country
like England, so much dependent upon foreign pota-
toes and other produce. It is on this account alone
that we have thought it worthy of this lengthened
notice ; and the following analyses of the two, in their
natural state, will enable our readers to calculate which
is the cheapest : —

Rice. Potatoes.

Water 12 .. 75

Husk and Fibre 3 .. 3

Starch and Sugar ... . 75 .. 16

Gluten 7 . . 2

Fat f .. i

Ash 1 .. 1

In every lOOlbs. of rice purchased from the grocer's
shop you have only 881bs. of dry rice, the balance being
water; and of lOOlbs. of potatoes only 25lbs. of dry
food — equivalent in value, according to the preceding
analysis, to 251bs. of dry rice, or 281b3. in its natural

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

state. If 281bs. of rice, therefore, cost more money
than iOOlbs. of potatoes, the latter is the best bargain
to the poor man, and vice versa if otherwise. In other
words, lib. of rice is about equal to 41bs. of potatoes.
Now, at present we are paying 4d. for the latter and
only 3d. for the former ; consequently potatoes are one-
fourth dearer food to us for eating along with ,butcher-
meat, fish or fowl, than rice ; so that more rice may be
advantageously consumed, and fewer potatoes.

In the above calculation we have said that one pound
of rice is about equal to four pounds of potatoes ; and
that we are paying threepence for one pound of the
former, and fourpence for four pounds of the latter.
This our readers will perceive is not quite correct ; but
if we had said that three pennyworth of rice is equal to
four pennyworth of potatoes, the statement would have
been strictly true. So that the conclusion at which we
arrived as to the economy of food is sound.

Another objection may be made as to the price of
potatoes and rice. The country labourer, it may be
said, can have potatoes at less than the half of what has
just been stated, or a halfpenny per pound, and in not
a few cases at one-fourth, or a farthing. In other words,
a pennyworth of potatoes is equal to three pennyworth
of rice ; while ground rice, as recommended for economy
of time in cooking, cannot be had for even threepence
itself.

The objection is good, and cannot be refuted ; but
what we said had only reference to ourself, so that each
party must just judge for himself. Rice caa be had at
less than threepence per pound, if taken in quantities ;
and the grinding of 1 cwt. should not cost much. When
boiled or stewed along with meat of any of kind, whole
rice will be done as soon as the meat ; so that such may
be preferred : and the same will be the case with fruit.
In economical cooking this is a most important point for
consideration — one which should never be lost sight of ;
and also the working-up of the whole of the raw ele-
ments purchased. In the cookery books to which we
have alluded, for instance, we frequently find 12 yolks
and only 6 whites of eggs used, being a waste of 6 whites
—the most important part of the egg, too, for a hard-
working man. In this respect it is but justice to ob-
serve that the mother country is greatly more extrava-
gant than her colony ; and when this is applied to
cottage cookery, it will appear in its true light when the
incomes of the two labourers and prices of provisions
are contrasted. The English labourer, with his small
wages and high-priced provisions, obviously requires
more economical modes of cookery rather than more ex-
travagant. But when eggs, sugar, butter, or fat of any
kind are only used in the cooking of rice, it is manifest
that ground rice, which may be boiled in five minutes,
is preferable to whole rice, which will require at least
half an hour, or from three to four hours in an oven
when baked. During the winter months, again, when
the cottage fire is kept continually burning, whole rice
may be advantageously boiled, stewed, or steamed in a
pot or pan with a perforated moveable bottom, as pota-
toes are frequently done. Or cheap ovens may be
constructed, so as to bake a pudding, bread, or any

other thing ; keeping the cottage warm at the same
time.

Boiled rice is sometimes mixed with wheaten flour in
the making of bread — or, what is better, ground rice.
We know a metropolitan baker \^ho always has rice
loaves ticketed in his shop window, and also Indian-corn
bread. We have had several of him ; but, although ex-
cellently baked and promising as to appearance, they
have nothing to recommend them to the outdoor
labourer.

Mixed with oat, lentil, pea, or bean meal, it has
more to recommend it, when cooked in puddings along
with a liberal allowance of fat ; and also with cabbage.
We have tried several experiments with various mixtures
of these articles, and can vouch for the increase of sub-
stantiality easily accounted for by the increase of
gluten. We have also mixed ground rice and Indian-
corn meal, but cannot say so much in favour of the
mixture, the latter being better without it. In all these
cases rice still finds a strong opponent in the potato.
Pea and potato pudding, potato bread, kol-cannon
(potatoes and cabbage), for instance, are well-known
dishes in cottage cookery.

From these observations it will readily be perceived
that when rice becomes cheaper than potatoes, as it is
to the labouring population of our large towns at present,
it may be very profitably used along with meat of any
kind, as the curries of the East, where it is so largely
used ; and that the cheapest and readiest mode of cook-
ing is, probably, stewed rice, eggs, and bacon ; stewed
meat and rice, with seasoning according to the taste of
parties, as it requires the least time and fire from the
cottager's wife. Some stomachs, however, object to
stewed meats; so that for exceptions of this kind pro-
vision will have to be made.

LONDON CENTRAL FARMERS' CLUB.— The
anniversary dinner of this club took place at the Crown
and Sceptre, Greenwich, on Monday, July 3. — J.Thomas,
Esq., of Lidlington Park, Beds, in the chair, supported
by upwards of forty members and their friends, includ-
ing Messrs. R, Baker, of Writtle, Essex ; T. Owen, of
Clapton, Berks; J. H. Sawell, of Muching, Essex;
H. Trethewy, of Silsoe, Beds; S. Skelton, of Sutton
Bridge, Lincoln ; R. Caparn, of Holbeach, Lincoln ;
Henry and Cheslyn Hall, of Neasdon, Middlesex ; T.
Knight, of Bobbing, Kent; L. A. Coussmaker, of
Westwood, Farnham; G. Wool, of Ulwell, Cambridge;
W. Bullock Webster, of Malvern, Worcester ; J. Cres.
singham, of Carshalton, Surrey ; J. Wood, of Croydon,
Surrey ; J. G. King, of Budon, Berks ; E. Purser, of
New Bridge-street ; T. Slater, of Kensington ; F. J.
Wilson, of Fenchurch-street, &c., &c. In the course
of the evening the chairman gave " Success to the Far-
mers' Club," with which he coupled the name of Mr.
Robert Baker, who, in responding, congratulated the
members on the good he believed the club had effected.
Following this, Mr. Trethewy proposed the health of
the chairman— a very efficient one, to whom the com-

THE FARMER S MAGAZINE,

169

pany did due honour. Mr. Caparn subsequently gave
" The Royal Agricultural Society," expressing his hopes,
as a Lincolnshire man, as to the success of the forth-
coming meeting. Mr. Henry Hall returned thanks on
behalf of the Society; and Mr. Cressingham, of the
Croydon Club, for " The Local Farmers' Clubs," pro-
posed by Mr. Ow^en. Mr. Corbet replied to " The
Secretary," and Mr. Slater, the eminent butcher, to
"The Visitors," proposed by Mr. Bullock Webster.
The dinner and wines were in every way worthy of the
repute Mr. Quartermaine has obtained in his many years'
experience of that refined luxury — a white-bait feast.

THE FOUNDER OF THE NEW LEICESTER
SHEEP.

Sir, — Mr. Bakewell, of Dishley, Leicestershire— the great
luminary, whose rays vivified every branch of agriculture they
fell upon — was the founder of the New Leicester barrel-formed
sheep. A highly-talented gentleman, Mr. James Ganley, of
Dublin — in answer to my letter, whether small or large sheep
were the most profitable, and which I leave to the public to
decide— remarks- :

" Your friend, ' S. A.,' says Mr. Ward's sheep are styled
by many Old Leicesters, because they have more wool and size
than the pnre-bred New Leicesters, and have a great semblance
to the best long-wool Lincolns. Keally, sir, this is new to us
in Ireland; for we thought the Old Leicesters were founded on
Bakewell's breed, and continued small."

If the highly-talented gentleman will look into the " Farmer's
Magazine" of August, 1842, page 83, he will find it says that
"Mr. Bakewell stood alone; and to him we are solely indebted
for that beautiful and useful animal, the New Leicester sheep."
In the same page it says — " Conjectures have been various :
some have considered that the principal crosses were made be-
tween the old long-woolled Leicesters and the ill-formed
animal that in those days fed upon the grassy hills of Char-
wood Forest. But, after all, conjecture is not proof. It may
be taken as a fact, denying dispute, that all his crosses were
made from the best individuals of the different flocks, and these
he in all probability crossed again with some of another breed."

In the "Farmer's Magazine" of December, 18-41, page 436,
it says — " His sheep were smaller than those of his neigh-
bours, but they retained every good point, and had got rid only
of the bad oues. The alteration was rapid as well as great in
his own flock ; and the practice which he introduced, of letting
some of his rams, quickly extended the benefit of his system
far and wide. The first ram which he let was in the year 1760,
at 13s. 6(1. for the season. In 1 789, he let one ram for 1,000 gs.,
and he cleared more than 6,000 gs. in the same year by the
letting of others. After that — so great was the mania, or,
rather, the desire for improvement— that Mr. Lawrence cal-
culates that £100,000 were annually spent by the midland far-
mers in the hiring of rams. Such loas Ike origin and the
eventful triumph of the New Leicester breed of sheep. They
have spread themselves in every part of the United Kingdom."

I beg to inform the Irish gentleman that a breed of great
long-woolled, large-boued. Old Leicester sheep existed before
Mr. Bakewell or his father was born. I saw, 55 years back,
an Old Leicester ram, bred by Mr. Moses Miller, of Smeeton,
Leicestershire, that weighed, alive, 30 stone (of 141bs. to the
stone), and cut IGlbs. of coarse wool. As to the weight o*

Mr. Ward's sheep, I have seen three-shear rams, fed upon
famous grass lard and turnips, that have weighed 601bs. per
quarter — capable of being made to weigh much more. It
appears that the heaviest Lincolnshire sheep on record was fed by
Mr. Healy, of High Risby, and was slaughtered at Brigg
about fiifteen years back, that weighed 761bs. per qr. — and
weighed publicly, because there were many wagers about his
weight. The heaviest Cotswold sheep on record was a three
years and nine months old sheep, bred and fed by Mr. Cother,
and exhibited in Mr. Hardcastle's shop in Kmg-street, Baker-
street, at the Great Chrisimas Cattle Show two years back,
that weighed 841bs. per quarter ; and thousands of people
saw him. As to Mr. Ward's sheep being clifted through their
backs, a lean sheep, of course, is never clifted through his
back; and all a gigantic sheep weighs above SOlbs. per quarter
is fat flesh, and not lean, I have seen Leicester sheep cut very
thick of fat down their backs, and not clifted. Mr. Ward's sheep
have plenty of lean flesh in proportion to the fat, and his wool
is about the same quality and weight as the best Lincolns. By
the appearance of the long-woolled Ijincolnshire sheep upon
Lincoln Heath and the Wolds, the Lincolns wiU thrive in any
county upon clover and turnips, or they would not suit Lincoln
Heath ; and the Wolds, a century back, was as wild as the
deserts of Arabia — nay, a wilderness, a rabbit-warren. lam
perfectly aware that the Leicester rams have done wonders for
the Lincolns and Cotswolds, when put to gigantic ewes of each
kind. The greater part of the Cotswold sheep are bred upon
poor weak land. I conceive there are very few flocks in the
kingdom but what have had a dip, direct or indirect, of the
Bakewell New Leicester sheep. The celebrated and far-famed
Mr. Bakewell ended his valuable life the 1st of October, 1795,
at the age of 69 — too early for the good of his country.
86, Vauxhall-slreet, Vauxliall, Surrey, June 29. S. A.

PRICES OF AGRICULTURAL STOCK.— The last of
the principal herds of cattle in the hundred of Bassetlaw, of
which the late Earl Spencer's was the type, was disposed of
by public auction, by Mr. Strafford, of London, on Tuesday
last. It is calculated that, within the last 50 years, not less than
70,000 guineas have been taken in the district in question for
animals bred in it by the late Earl Spencer, the Hon. J. B.
Simpson, Messrs. J. Parkinson, H. Watsou, J. Hall,
H. Champion, and others of less note. It was the stock
of the latter gentleman which was brought to the hammer
on Tuesday last, in the presence of a numerous company. The
cows and heifers realized a total of £1,252, giving an average
of about £43 each. The best lots sold were the following : —
Sylphide, roan, 1849, by Pestalozzi, purchased by Mr. Tainter
for 130 guineas ; Cyprus, aed and white, 1852, by Lord of
Brawith, purchased by Mr. Tainter for 100 guineas ; Lady
Millicent, roan, 1847, by Laudable, purchased by Mr.
Tainter for 94 guineas; Seraph, light roan, 1851, by
Lord of Brawith, purchased by Mr. S. Foljamhe, of
Osberton House, Notts; Cerentola, roan, 1849, by
Faugh- a-Ballagh, purchased by Mr. Foljambe for 69
guineas. The five bulls realized 174?., giving an average of
nearly 351. each. The principal were General Bates, rich
roan, 1852, by Lord of Brawith, purchased by Sir T. White,
of Wallingwells ; and Lord of Brawith, roan, 1849, by Em-
peror, purchased by Mr. Armstrong for 52 guineas. After
the cattle sale 288 fat ewes were sold in pens of five each.
These went off heavily at from 5d. to 6d. per lb. After this
62 fat gimmer hogs were sold in pens of five each, and
brought from 6d. to 7d. per lb, — The Times.

170

Tlili FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

AGRICULTURAL REPORTS

GENERAL AGRICULTURAL REPORT FOR
JULY.

In our last month's report we alluded to the very
favoursible accounts which had come to hand from
most of our large grain districts in reference to the
general appearance of the grain crops ; and this
month we have to confirm the statements then
made as regards the probable amount of food which
will be secured for consumption. Compared with
many previous corresponding periods of the year,
our local advices ai-e less conflicting on a subject
of such vital importance than we almost ever
recollect. It is true that some of our correspon-
dents state that blight has made its appearance
amongst the wheats, and that the produce in some
counties is not likely to turn out so extensive as
was at one time anticipated; nevertheless, we may
ciafely venture to observe — and we here deal in
(/eneralities, leaving isolated cases to deal with
themselves, because they cannot have any decided
influence upon the total yield — that a finer prospect
was never presented than at this moment. The
crop of wheat, with the aid of fine weather, is
therefore, in our opinion, likely to prove a full
average one, and certainly considerably in excess
of that produced last year, or even the year before.
When we consider that we have been deprived of
our accustomed supplies of grain from Russia, and
that a considerable decline has taken place in the
shijiments from the United States, and further,
that consumption has continued large, we regard
this feature as a most important one, because we
have now the prospect before us of abundance,
when for some time past we have laboured under
the disadvantage of a comparative deficiency. The
deficiency, however, has not extended to foreign
grain : in other words, we have had an importation
of wheat and flour from abroad, more than equal to
our wants ; and it is evident that, notwithstanding
there is every reason to anticipate further depressed
currencies, we shall continue to receive large im-
portations of grain and flour from various parts of
the globe, and which eventually may lead to heavy
losses on the part of the importers.

As regards spring corn, we feel justified in saying
that we are on the eve of a most abundant return.
In Essex, Kent, &c., the cutting of winter oats and
rye has already been commenced, and no doubt
rapid progress will shortly be made in other dis-
tricts. With the exception of beans and peas being
likely to turn out a light crop, the total yield of

spring corn will, we are of opinion, prove unusually
large.

We have now to consider the potato crop. On
this point, a great difference of opinion prevails.
In some quarters blight has extended itself, but
the loss hitherto has not been serious ; indeed, we
see no reason whatever to look forward to a dis-
astrous period when the crop arrives at maturity.
The same observations as regards wheat, may be
applied to potatoes : for instance, the breadth of
land under cultivation is immense, not only in
England, but likewise in Ireland and Scotland. In
the two latter countries, an immense surplus pro-
duce is expected, and which, no doubt, will find
its way to England.

We have now glanced at present prospects, and
have given what we consider a faithful report of the
progress of agriculture. It may not, perhaps, have
the effect of keeping up prices ; but on this point
we have been equally clear in preceding months.
That the present value of food will not be sup-
ported, is clear from what is passing in the trade ;
and we regard the rapid decline in prices as merely
the forerunner of even a greater fall, though it may
not be so rapid as that which has occurred during
the past month.

The advices from our hop districts have been
most unsatisfactory. The whole of the plantations
exhibit a wretched appearance, and it is clear that
the growth will be miserably deficient. The duty
has been done as low as £45,000 up to £60,000.
The high prices paid in the Borough have induced
heavy shipments from the continent, and which
have checked what may be termed a serious ad-
vance. The growth in Holland and Belgium, last
year, must have been very large.

The whole of the crop of hay has now been
secured; but we regret to observe that a large
portion of it has been stacked in very middhng
condition. The crop has been by no means
heavy.

There has been a slight improvement in the
demand for English wool, owing, in some measure,
to the firmness with which the colonial wool sales
are progressing. Prices, however, have shown no
disposition to advance, and the immense arrivals
from Australia have tended to check all confidence
in the article as one of investment.

The fat stock markets have been fairly supplied
with beasts, sheep, &c., but their general condition
has proved very inferior. The general demand has

THE FAiUv]£R'S MAGAZINE.

171

been rather inactive— in many instances heavy —
and prices have had a downward tendency.

In Ireland and Scothind the corn trade has been
very dull, and prices have given way to some ex-
tent. We learn that the stock of wheat, barley, and
oats, now in the hands of the growers, is larger
than has been generally anticipated.

REVIEW OF THE CATTLE TRADE
DURING THE PAST MONTH.

Notwithstanding that the cattle trade has not
been quite so firm as to price as in the previous
month, it has continued in a healthy state ; and
we may add that the returns, as a whole, have been
tolerably remunerative. It has, however, been a
general subject of conversation that the stock as
yet derived from the northern grazing districts has
fallen considerably short, both in weight and con-
dition, of some previous years. This circumstance
may, in some measure, be attributed to the com-
parative scarcity of pasture food in Lincolnshire,
and the high prices paid for linseed cake. As
regards the health of both beasts and sheep, we
may intimate that no serious cases of disease have
been met with, and that, consequently, the graziers
have not much to complain of on this head.

The future state of our markets is looked forward
to with much anxiety,both by graziers and breeders.
The former have unquestionably paid very high
rates for their depastured stock, and the latter are
by no means anxious sellers, except at a further
imi)rovement in the quotations. In former reviews,
we have intimated that low prices were wholly out
of the question. We are still of the same opinion,
because we perceive that the aggregate imports of
beasts and sheep from Holland have this year
fallen considerably short of some former seasons,
although our markets have offered a great tempta-
tion to the foreigner. Much of course will depend
upon the ability of the English breeders to meet
consumption ; but our impression is, that they are
not in a position to supply the markets with an
adequate number of stock to have any material
effect upon value. Evidently the number of both
beasts and sheep in our large grazing districts is
not in excess of corresponding periods ; conse-
quently, in the event of any positive deficiency in
our imports from the continent, even higher rates
may be anticipated.

The following are the imports of foreign stock
into London during the month : — Head.

Beasts 4,274

Sheep 12,249

Lambs 1,309

Calves 3,112

Pigs 1,288

Total

22,242

Ditto in 1853 38,793

Ditto in 1852 ....... 27,008

Ditto in 1851 24,082

At the out-ports, the arrivals have exhibited a
corresponding, if not a greater, decline ; and we
are of opinion that those of August will be smaller
than in July.

Annexed are the total supplies shown in Smith-
field :— Head.

Beasts 19,740

Cows 540

Sheep and lambs 1 57,970

Calves 4,123

Pigs 3,110

SUPPLIES AT CORRESPONDING PERIODS.

July, July, July,

1853. 1852. 1851.

Beasts. 21,199 18,404 18,492

Cows 560 680 470

Sheep and lambs .... 169,920 1G0,190 188,170

Calves 4,315 3,476 2,520

Pigs 2,820 3,067 2,800

The bullock supplies from Lincolnshire, Leices-
tershire, and Northamptonshire, have amounted to
6,700 short-horns ; from Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex,
and Cambridgeshire, 2,200 Scots and short-horns ;
from other parts of England, 3,000 of various
breeds ; and from Scotland, G60 horned and polled
Scots. Beasts have changed hands at from 3s. 2d.
to 5s. ; sheep, 3s. 4d. to 5s.; lambs, 4s. 4d. to 5s.
Sd.; calves, 3s. 2d. to 5s.; pigs, 3s. to 4s. 8d. per
8 lbs., to sink the offal.

COMPARISON OF PRICES.

July, 1853. July, 1852. July, 1851.

s. d. s. d. s. d. s. d. s. d. s. d.

Beef.. 3 2 to 5 0, . 2 4 to 3 10.. 2 4 to 3 8

Mutton 3 6 5 4.. 2 8 4 0..2 6 3 10

Lamb 50 6 4.. 42 5 2.. 40 50

Veal ..3 6 5 0. .2 6 4 0.. 2 6 3 8

Pork.. 30 4 2.. 26 3 8.. 26 38

There have been several arrivals of stock into
London direct by sea from Ireland, and we under-
stand that the shipments have paid remarkably
well. The arrivals from Scotland have been of
very prime quality for the time of year ; but we
have observed no improvement whatever in the
general condition of the foreign imports. This is
somewhat remarkable, considering the lengthened
period which has elapsed since the passing of the
present tariff laws.

Newgate and Leadenhall have been very scantily
supphed with each kind of meat throughout the
month ; nevertheless, the demand has been in a
very depressed state, and prices generally have had
a downward tendency. Beef has sold at from 3s.
to 4s. 6d. ; mutton, 3s. 2d. to 4s. 8d.; lamb, 4s.
2d. to 5s. 8d.; veal, 3s. 2d. to 4s. lOd.; and pork,
3s. 4d. to 4s. 8d. per Bibs, by the carcase.

N 2

172

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

NOTTINGHAMSHIRE.

The general aspect of the county is good. Our pastures,
which at one time were eatea bare, have been refreshed with
the late rains, and have very much improved ; the hay harvest
is a tedious affair, the crop has fallen very light, and but little
has been secured in good condition. Some fields we saw
yesterday, in the neighbourhood of Newark, are fit for nothing
but litter; as a counterbalance to this, the eddishes (after-
maths) will be good, and may in some cases be mown a second
time. The turnip crop also will be good ; we have not seen
an indifferent crop in the county, where properly cultivated.
Some few there ytt are, wlio take a short cut, and manage
slovenly, and consequently crop slightly : too much labour can
scarcely be applied, and the more, generally, the better the re-
turn. [Of the potato crop we hear few complaints ; the breadth
planted is as great as in the average of seasons : we trust
we may be spared the evil. The wheat crop is partially good;
the breadth sown, as in our former remarks, is great, but in
some localities very thin ; it must cut up in such situations
light, but the ear on all soils is good, and the crop, we have
no hesitation in stating, will, with favourable weather, be found
an average one. Spring corn has a good appearance, and pro-
mises, taken as a whole, an average return. Our corn markets
are heavy, and will be now for a time, what they always are
at this period of the year— extremely vacillating ; we do not
calculate on much decline before the harvest is secured, for
the stocks of wheat in hand are very light; high prices
naturally reduce stores, and what we have on hand will all be
wanted. Our cattle markets are heavy; and both fat and lean

stock have suffered some decline in value. The labour market
still maintains its position, and good able bodied labourers are
scarce. Wages 15s. per week — of course there is some
variation from that point ; the hay harvest absorbs a good
amount, and raises it in some localities. — July 18.

LAUNCESTON, CORNWALL.
We have bad rain more or less, some days very heavy, for
the last two months ; and with the exception of last Saturday
afternoon, which was very clear and fine, have had little or no
sun; the consequence is that fruit of every description is taste-
less and watery. The wheat, more especially the white, has
the yellows in it, in some cases very bad. The barley haa
grown so rapidly that it is exceedingly long and weak ; and
the heavy rains on Monday last lodged a portion of the crop.
With regard to the hay, some fields after the grass had been
cut upwards of three weeks are cleared, but the produce is
only fit for litter; the other portion now on the ground, from
present appearances, will share the same fate; and of the grass
remaining, much is really rotting in the bottom. Swedes are
at a stand-still, and the weeds are overcoming them, the land
being so very wet that it is next to impossible to prevent their
growing : a vast quantity of land intended to be sown with
white and yellow turnips remain untilled, and all the work of
the farm is thrown out of its regular course by the very un-
favourable and serious weather. Harvest must be later than
we have had it for some years past. The stocks of home grown
grain is nearly exhausted, and in the face of all this every
article of produce is declining in price. — July 19.

CALENDAR OF AGRICULTURE

This is the general harvest month in Britain, e.x-
cept in the most northern parts, where it is pro-
tracted into next month. Cut grain crops full ten
days before a dead ripeness takes place ; the straw
will be more juicy, and the flour will be whiter and
more doughy. Wheat is most generally cut by
sickle, set in shocks of 12 sheaves, and built in
ricks. Oats and barley are more generally cut or
mown by scythe, carried loose, or tied into sheaves
some days after being mown. Peas are cut by
sickle, and laid into heaps. In fine weather, spare
neither pains nor expense in getting the crops cut
and housed ; hire plenty of hands, and allow plenty
of beer to the poor labourers. A sparing parsi-
mony in harvest is the worst-judged economy that
can be imagined.

Clean thoroughly by hoeing and scuffling all
drilled and green crops ; earth up potatoes, and
pull by hand the tall weeds that may afterwards
arise.

Lay lime and dung and composts on wheat
fallows; harrow the lime immediately, and cover
the dung by ploughing; both operations, dunging

and ploughing, going on together, or the one follow-
ing the other as nearly as possible. Continue
draining, the folding of sheep, and the soiling of
cattle, as before directed.

Keep the lambs always in forward condition, by
putting thera on the best pastures. The drafted
flock of last year will now be fit for the butcher,
and ewes may be put to the ram for early lambs.

Sow on well-prepared grounds, in a warm
sheltered situation, the seeds of drum-head
cabbages, kohl rabi, savoys, and broccoli, for plants
to be used next spring. Sow rye and winter
vetches for early spring use. Use dung for the
vetches ; or what may be better in many situations,
summer-fallow the land, using dung at the same
time, thus adopting every possible known means to
secure so valuable a crop in the spring.

Burn ashes, and prepare constantly all kinds of
artificial manures for the drop-drill. Gather dung
of all kinds, earths for composts, and vegetables
for the manure pit. No man will ever do much in
farming, who does not apply manures with a con-
stant, a lavish, and an unsparing hand.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

173

METEOROLOGICAL DIARY.

Barometer.

Thermometer.

Wind and State.

Atmosphere,

Weat'r,

1854.

8 a.m.

in, cts.

10 p.m.

Min.

Max.

lOp.m.

Direction.

Force.

8 a.m.

2 p.m.

10p.m.

June22

30.10

in. cts.
30.11

W. by South

gentle

cloudy

sun

fine

dry

30.15

30.16

W. by South

fresh

cloudy

sun

cloudy

dry

30.18

30.11

W. by South

gentle

cloudy

sun

cloudy

dry

30.02

29.90

W. by South

gentle

cloudy

sun

cloudy

dry

29.76

29.71

S. West

forcible

cloudy

dry

29.81

29.76

S. West

V. brisk

fine

sun

fine

showery

29.69

29.61

W. S, West

gentle

cloudy

sun

fine

rain

29.62

W. & S. West

var.

cloudy

sun

clear

rain

■ 30

29.65

29.83

W. & N. West

gentle

haze

cloudy

showers

July 1

29.86

29.94

W. by South

calm

cloudy

rain

29.94

S. West

gentle

fine

cloudy

dry

29.88

29.69

S. West

lively

cloudy

sun

fine

drops

29.65

29.63

S. West

airy

cloudy

sun

cloudy

showery

29.65

29.73

S, West

Hvely

fine

showery

29.77

29.74

S. West

gentle

fine

cloudy

fine

showers

29.78

29.73

S. E. & N. E.

gentle

cloudy

fine

cloudy

showers

29.77

29.74

Variable, S.W.

calm

cloudy

fine

cloudy

dry

29.75

29.80

Variable, S.W.

gentle

fi:ne

cloudy

dry

29.87

29.91

Var.,West

gentle

fine

cloudy

rain

29.92

29.88

East, var.

gentle

cloudy

showery

29.85

29.86

N. W. & N. E.

gentle

haze

cloudy

wet

29.88

29.81

49§

W. N. W.

gentle

fine

sun

cloudy

dry

29.SI

29.77

Westerly

gentle

cloudy

dry

29.77

29.97

Variable

calm

fine

sun

fine

show e

30.10

30.11

55i

S. West

gentle

fine

sun

fine

dry

30.11

30.05

5.S.E. & S.W.

airy

cloudy

fine

cloudy

dry

30.05

30.00

S. West

fresh

fine

sun

fine

dry

30.00

30.05

S. West

fresh

fine

sun

fine

dry

30.09

30.11

S.W.,W.byN.

calm

fine

sun

fine

dry

30.17

30.22

Westerly, var.

airy

fine

sun

clear

dry

Estimated Averages of July,

Barometer.
Highest I Lowest.
30.30 I 29.390

Real Average Temperature of the Period,

Highest,
66.433

Lowest,
54.0

Mean.
60.216

Weather and Phenomena.

June 22. The first real summer day. 23. Heat
increased. 24. Same. 25. Extreme sultry heat. 26.
High wind and rapid change. 27, 28, 29. Showery,
chiefly by night. 30. Singular thunderstorm, re-
ports like artillery, 1.2 inch of rain in June,

Lunation,— New Moon, 25th day, 0 h, 2 m.
afternoon,

July], Overcast and rain, 2. Sunny intervals.
3, 4. Early sprinkle ; good hay days. 5, 6, 7.
Showery. 8, 9, 10. Wind varying continually. 11,
12. Rainy. 13, 14. Gradual improvement. 15.
Genial day ; one sudden shower. 16. Genial ; cirro
s^ra/ws at sunset. 17- More overcast. 18 to 21

inclusive. Summer temperature, 20, Singulai*
smoky atmosphere ; clearing oiF, 21. Most beau-
tiful.

Lunations. — First quarter, 3rd day, 0 h. 51 m,
morning. Full, 10th day, 0 h. 25 m. morning.
Last quarter, l7th day, 0 h. 23 m. morning.

Remarks connected with Agriculture.

The table will explain the fickle state of the wea-
ther (sadly unpropitious to the hay harvest), till the
unexpected favourable change which occurred on
the 15th the far-famed and dreaded Swithin. He
I failed again, notwithstanding the rain that fell here,
! at least, in the afternoon. People ought to be ashamed
j of such idle superstitions. The splendid weather of
the last week is already working out [tsownprovideii-
tial consequences; the supereminently magnificent
cereals are already changing colour, and though
the public may be terrified or amused by the tulk^
j of blight, rust, mildew, &c., &c., it may rest confi-
I dent that, unless some untoward change occur, the
prospect now will be, as it has long been, of high
promise. J. Towers.

Croydon, June 2\st.

174

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

AGRICULTURAL INTELLIGENCE, FAIRS, &c.

ST. BOS WELL'S FAIR.— The sales of sheep stock
fveraged Is., 23., and ia some iustaLces 23. 6d. a-head below
(he prices of last year.

EXETER FAIR.— The atteadauce at the cattle market
was large, but the amount of stock driven iii was decidedly
sniall. Fat beef was well ini}viiied for, and prices must be
raised to from lOa. 9d. to lis. per score. We saw uothlug
exhibited particularly worthy of attention. There was a few
lamb-i shown, and sold at 7d ver lb. Barreners were 6i. to
Gs. 6d. per score ; cows and calves from £11 to £16 each; and
workiuff oxen £25 to £.3.5 per pair.

FORT-WILLIAM SHEEP AND WOOL MARKET.—
This market, for the sale of black-faced stock and wool, was
well attended. Business was stiff, and except iu lambs, little
was done durin;^ the day, the buyers not beinj; disposed to
meet the views of the sellers ; however, towards night a good
many transactions took place both in wedders and ewes, which
have not transpired. The black-faced stock sold at about the
same rate, with reference to last year, as at Inverness. A
large number of sales took place at, say, wedders Is., ewes
Is. 6d., and lambs Is. under last year. Wool was hardly
offered, and little was done in it ; of what was sold, the prices
were not fixed. The following are a few of the transactions : —
Mr. Ronald Macdonell, Gleiifinuon, sold his wedders at Is.
6d. below the Falkirk price last year ; Mr. Macdonatd, Inver-
aladale, sold his wedders at 2Si., bis ewes at 121. 15s., and
bought lambs at 91. 10s. and 71. 5s. ; Mr. Grieve, Landale,
bought lambs at 6d. below last year's prices ; Mr. Macintyre,
Chines, sold his ewes at Ul, and bis lambs at 10/. 10s.; Mr.
Maccoll, Appin, sold a lot of lambs to Corrychoillie at 71. ;
Corrychoillie also bought the Ratagan wedders 2Sl. 10s. Mr.
Fiulay Macrae, Carr, Kintail, sold his Cheviot laid wool (on
the Edinburgh Castle steamer) to Mr. Turner at 13s. Mr.
Macrae, Morvicb, sold (in ditto) his Cheviot ewes at 201., to
J. and W. Roan, Liverpool, his wedders at 261. ISs. to a Fi'e-
shire dealer, and his shot lambs at 9Z. 10s. Tallisker wedders
sold, at Inverness, at SOL, ewes 201. IDs. Kenneth Kennedy,
.1<;sq., sold his Glen-Turrit top wedder larahs at 111. Mr.
Stewart, Acheutie, sold his wedders at 2il. lOs.; Cramachan
eves, 13Z. Mr. Bain, Inverness, sold a lot of very superior
tups at from 21. to 3Z., with luckpenny. Mr. Macuonald,
Keppoch, sold his Fersit wedders at 23Z.

GARSTANG FAIR— The quantity of wool pitched was
not so great as in former years, neither was the supply of
lambs by any means abundant. The heat wool at from 8Jd.
to 9id. per lb. (very few fleeces, however, at the highest figure),
and wool from half-bred sheep at from 4^d. to fc'd. per lb.
Best manure lambs ranged from 21s. to 203. each, and those
of inferior breed from 10s. to 13s. each. Ihe demand for
v/ools and lamlis was good, and little of the former and few of
l!ie latter were left unsold at the close of the day.

IIELMSLEY FAIR.— There was a good siiow of all kiuds
of lean stock at this fair, and jubbers bought rather freely.
J,amb3 were in great demand, and sold well, one prime let
f-i,ching 2G3. per head. lu-calving cows were ranch wanted,
but only a few were shown, which sold at high prices. There
was a very scanty supply of liorses, which were of an inferior
description.

_ HORSHAM FAIR.— We had a large fair ; about 12,000
siiecp and lambs were penned, the greater part being in excel-
lent condition. Early ia the day there was little disposition
to buy, in consequence of the high prices asked, but towards
tlic afteriiooa sellers dropped 2s. to os. a he ad, when the
greater part was cleared off; the few sheep which were offered
fetched from 343. to »8s. The greater portion of the lambs
realized 18s. to 21s. ; a few parcels, very fine, fetched 253. to
27s,, and a few ii.ferior sold from 15s. to" 173, Gd. The quan-
tity exceeds by about 2,000 the number offered hist July, and
prices may be quoted 3s. lower thin at that period. There has
been a good business done ia beai^ts ; about 1,500 to 2,000
were offered, and all sold ; several hundred foreigucra (very
gmall) fetched about £5; a few inferior .sold aslow as £4;
gorae Devous and other sorts realized from £8 to £14. Pigs

were rather plentiful, and chesp ; a few parcels, in ^ery good
condition, sold from 23s. to 24s. Horses sold pretty well,
considering their condition, though it is ditficult to quote
prices. We heard of £15 103. being paid for 10-year-old cart-
horses.

NEWTON-STEWART MONTHLY MARKET.— The
entire stock exhibited, of all kinds, numbered 547 head of
cattle. The following is a list of the ruling prices of the
market for the different kinds, according to ages : — Three-
year-olds, from £10 to £14 each (one lot was said to have
realized £15 10s,, but we believe it was an exaggeration) ; two-
year-olds, from £7 to £10 ; stirks, from £3 to £6 lOs. ; Cud-
haghs, from £5 to £7; milk cows, £7 to £9; and bulls, £9
to £10 each. There were only four carts of pigs in the
market, which were readily sold at prices varying from 7s. to
lOs. each, according to age and quality.

OVERTON FAIR.— A rather short supply was penned,
notwithstanding wliich the sale was extremely dull, especially
for lambs. The prices were considered to be for ewes about
2s., and for Iambs and wethers about Ss. per head lower than
last year ; ewes, from 323. to 42s., extra 45s. The prize lot
for killing realized £3 per head, wether lambs 21s. to 32s.,
extra 358. to 37s., wethers 32s. to 45s. The ewe and ram
stock was very superior, particularly the ewes of Mr. Budd,
and the ram lambs in Class 6, belonging to Messrs. Child,
Tasker, and Eduey. Mr. Hart's (from Wiltshire) ewes were
much admired. The wether lambs generally were not so good
in condition as usual.

PERTH LAMB FAIR.— The amount of business done
here was very limited. The general price asked for lambs was
18s. a-head. There was only one lot of Cheviots on the
ground, for which IDs, a-head was sought ; 17s. 6d. was
offered, but no bargain was effected, and they left the Inch
unsold. So far as we could learn, 0)ily two lots of cross-breeda
were sold, viz., one lot, 100 in number, belonging to Mr.
RuthDrford, Muirhall, were disposed of to Mr. Paton, Bridg-
end, at IGs. a-head, and the other, belonging to Mr. Stark,
Coi-ts of Fingask, were sold to Mr. Thomson, Montague, at
15s. 6d. The lambs owned by Mr. Bell, Balthayock, Mr.
Stewart, Craiglocliy, Mr. Lamoi'.t, Limepotts, and Mr. Came-
ron, Logiealraond, and other parties, left the ground unsold.
We observed, also, on the Inch, a lot of Highland two-year-
old stots, belonging to Mr. Rattray, Logiealmond, and which
were bought by Mr. Wilson Creitf, at 61. lOs. a-head.

SIJERBORNE F.^IR.— There was a large )iumber of sheep
and other stock shown, bat prices for every kind were con-
siderably lower. The horse fair was also a very small one,
and the quality of the animah was inferior. The price of
wool ranged from lOd. to 11 id.

ST. SAIRS FAIl!.— The market is the largest market for
cattle held in Aberdeen and Banffshire, and the largest for
horses north of Bicoiiiu. Some idea of the msigiiitudc of the
tiausactions may be formed from the following stafcuient of
the number of cattle, horses, and sheep, and the quantities of
wool brought into the market for the jiresent and past three
years : —

Year. Cattle. Horses. Sheep. Wool.

1S51 1120 939 141 ]53stones.

1852 103'i 70O 255 126 „

1853 1(;24 799 27S 91

1854 1127 726 800 93 „

Cattle: We sulijoin a few sales : Three-year-olds — five very
fine cross stots, wide horned, possibly the best lot in the
market, oOl. a-head ; a stot, very heavy, 28Z ; eight queys,
171. 10s. each. Two-year-olds— six heifers, 14L each; a prime
qney, 19/.; a pair of queys, pretty fat, 311. for the pair.
Year-olds — the prices got for those sold varied from 5/. to
lOZ., according to quality. Cows: In the cow market Iheie
waj a fair supply of beasts. The demand was good, and a
large number sold. A cow was sold for 20/ , probably the
host cow in the market; a small farrow cow brought 9/. lOs.,
and another 10/. lOs. Work oxen — a pair sold at 40/. ; an
ox, 25/. ; a pair, very heavy, but in rather lean condition, at

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

175

55Z. the pair. Horses: A grey Work horse broKglit 52/. 10s.,
and several ethers from 28/. to 40?. ; a mare, si.K years ol J,
31 Z. ; a pair of grey draught mares, 661. for the pair. Sheep :
Seventy cross hoggs sold at 18s. 9d. each; for tups 38s.
each; seventy blackfaced wedders 1?. Is. a-heai.

SALISBURY SHEEP FAIR.— There were 10,000 sheep
penned, showing an increase of 1,000 upon the last October
fair, but which met with a dull sale at from Is. to 23. per head
lower than last year, or about the same prices as were realized
at Slockbridge Fair. The stock was vtry good, especially
ewes and ram lambs. Mr. Moore, of Littlecot, exhibited a
pen of rams and a pen of fat ewes, which were particularly
admired. There were five prizes for competition, awarded as
follows : — A silver cup, value five guineas, to the largest
penner, Mr. James JelTery, of Donhead ; do. to the largest
buyer, Mr. Parr, Petersfield, Sussex; do. for the best 100
wether lambs, Mr. John Hart, Fisherton Delamere ; do. for
the best 100 ewes, Mr. Edmund Olding, Ratfiu Farm, Ames-
bnry; do. for the best 10 ram lambs, Mr. James Futcher
Fovant.

SEAMER FAIR. — Owing to the great demand (or beasts
during the spring months, for graziug purposes, a smaller
number were exhibited than on preceding occasions ; the
stock was mostly sold at good prices. Amongst horses of
every description, and especially those suitable for cavalry, a
great number of salea were effected.

STAGSUAW BANK FAIR.— There was not more than
an average show of stock, hut there v.ere scarcely any jobbers
present, and the demand was exceedingly dull. Indeed a
large quantity of sheep were not sold, and either returned to
their pastures in the valley of the Tyue and the Keildar, or, if
in dealers' hsnds, driven oif to other markets. Nor was the
owing to prices having been maintained by the holders ; sales
were made at lower prices than were current at Appleby, and
at a loss of 2s. and 3s. per head, besides expenses. Cheviot
hogs sold from ISs. to 203,, and wethers from 20s, to 25,3.
One lot of Cheviot hogs was sold for only Is. per head more
than was given for the stock when lambs. Theie was a fair
demand for shorthorn cattle, but all other descriptions were
difficult to sell even at lower prices.

BISHOPSTOKE, (Thursday last )— The supply of Cheese
was about as usual, for which there was a steady trade at late
rrtes.

CHIPPENHAM GREAT MARKET, July 14.— The
market was fidly attended to-day by factors and farmers, and
dealers in cheese and wool — this being our first Wool fair and
Earn show. These were upwards of 120 tons of cheese pitched,
which was all sold, at tlie* following prices. There was one
splendid lot of upwards of 6 tons from one dairy, which was
quite an attraction. Broad doubles, 50s. to COs. per cwt. ;
old ditto, 58s. to 6Ss. ; Prime Chetidar, 6O3. to 75a. ; Tliin,
453. to 52s.; Loaves, 503. to 61s. ; Skim, 203, to SOs.

GL.A.SGOW, (Wednesday last.) —The supply of new and
old cheese at market to-day was fully better than on Wednes-
day last, and the liernand for it was active. All sold at former
quotations. Best old, 58s. per cwt, ; second quality, 53s.;
and inferior, 48s. per cwt. New cheese at 41s. to 44s. per cwt.

IRISH FAmS. — Tagiimon was well attended with
stock of all kinds, except fat cattle, of which there was none.
Store cattle and sheep in better demand than at our last fairs.
A good deal of business done both in sheep and cattle. Fat
pigs 54s. per cwt,; store pigs, from 35s. to 50s. ; creel pigs,
from 263. to 30s. per couple; milch cows, from £8 to £11 per
head ; springers in good demand ; ewes and lambs, 30s. to
373. 6d. ; fat lamb?, 123. to ISs, — Kilrea : Few cattle were
otfered for sale, and almost none exchanged owners. The
horse fair hill was also badly attended. Sheep cud pigs,
principally sucklings, were the only ready sale. There were
about 10 tons of flax — the greater part of bad quality, one
half of which remained unsold. Business in every part of the
town was dull, and the fair may, in all truth, be called a poor
one.

ALNWICK ADJOURNED WOOL FAIR presented the
same dull and languid appearance which marked its transactions
last week. A number of d.-alers from the manufacturing dis-
tricts in attendance willing to buy, bat the farmers were
irresolute and doubtful as to the prices offered. Many of the
large clips of last year held over, and their holders bewildered

and disappointed at the falling off in value from th:;t time.
Some has been sold at the contingent average of this season,
but with the certainty of a difference of at least 25 per cent,
on the prices easily obtained in 1853. Staplers careless of ex-
tensive purchases at this time, and only taking selected parcels
fitted to mix with the stock they have on hand. The very
choicest clips of all hog would scarcely exceed 243, The higheit
authenticated sale of a mixed lot was 233., but a large portion
would not realize that figure; while ewe and Cheviot wool
would only range from ISs. to 20s. per stone of 241bs.

AYR WOOL FAIR,— There was a pretty good attendance,
but a general disinclination was manifested on the part cf
holders to transacted business, farmers being uuwdling to se'l
till the rates ruling in the Highland markets should be ascer-
tained. There were no sales worth mentioning, and no prices
can be quoted. Something depends upon the approaching
Bute and luvcrary mftrkets, but there is a general impression
that the late duluess at Inverness will extend over the prices
of the season. On Tuesday tht same clip of laid that sold
last year at 12s. 9d. was bought at 9s,, and the rates pointed
at were from ^'5 to 30 per cent, below thoae of last year.

LEEDS (ENGLISH) WOOL, July 21.— The improve-
ment in the weather has caused a better feeling in these dis-
tricts this week. Prices quoted the same as last week.

NEWTON STEWART WOOL MARKET.— There was
some little business done, but nothing like what used to be
at the same market of former years. Owing to the immense
reduction in tlie price of wools, farmers being utterly im-
willing to submit to so great a length (abotit one-third) be-
neath last year's currencies, and merchants remaining equally
inflexible in the upward tendency, a considerable time elapstd
before any bargains were struck. However, in the course of
the day a few " clips " changed hands at the following ralfs :
— Laid Galloway wool, 8s. 6cl, to 9a. per stone of 26 or 28!bs.
as agreed on ; black-faced white, lis. to 12s, per do. ; washed
hal.f-bred hog and ewe, 9d, to lOd. per lb.

THETFORD WOOL FAIR.— About 100 gent^emen sat
down to dinner under the presidency of P. Bennet, Esq., M.P.,
and the company included Sir R. Buxton, Bart., Col. Fitzroy,
Messrs. Keary, B. Caldwell, H. Blyth, J. Hudson, E. Overman,
H. Overman, H. A. Bartlett, H. Woods, Everard, Fyson, J.
Musket!-, S. K. Gay ford, G. Gayford, H. J. Hitchcock, W. Beck,
Mcyse,Sherringham, K. Cooper, Buck, G. H.Nunn, J. Nunn, F,
Nunn, T. Pooley, Robertshaw (Bradford), Suteliffe (ditto;.
Palmer (ditto), Thompson (ditto), Fyson, Butcher, Gittcns,
Youngman, Sailer, H. Jdlings, Flanders, Ferguson, Constable,
H. Webb, Itobinsoi), W, Hatvey, Muraford, G. B. Ireland,
Abbott, Neal, Cooke, Tyrrcl, Steel, Simpson, Waddilovr,
Phillips, Gates, Webb, Hailstone, Mainprice, Featherstcnc,
Jeffrey, &c. The following is a summary of the business trans-
acted : Sold by Col. Fitzroy to Mr. Sherringham, 40 tods of
ewe wool and 7 tods of Down hogget ditto, at 25s. 6d. per
tod; by Capt. Caldwell to Mr. G.' Gayford, 520 fleeces of ewe
wool, and between 80 and 100 fleeces of hogget ditto (the prc-
perty of Mr, Baring, M.P.), at 26s, per tod all round ; by the
Chairman to Mr. Everard, 103 fleeces of hogget wool, and 133
fleeces of ewe ditto of this year's growth and 171 fleeces of
ewe and hogget wool of last j ear's growth at lid. per lb, all
round; by Mr. G.Nunn to Mr. Ilitchc: ck, 37 score ewe fleeces
and two score hogget ditto, at 27s. per tod all round; by Mr.
J. S. Nunn to Mr. Everard, 100 tods of hogget woo" and 95
tods of ewe, at 283. per tod all round ; by Mr, Hinde to Mr.
Hitchcock, the wool of Mr. Wilson of Stowlaogtoft (quantity
not stated), at 28a. per tod all round ; by Mr. Buck to Mr.
Everard, 300 ewe fleeces, and 60 hogget ditto, at 283. per tori,
the bargain not to be finally concluded till tlie expiration of
two months; and by Mr. Roper to Mr. Hitchcock, 500 ewo
fleeces, and 100 hogget ditto, at 27s. per tod all round.

YORK WOOL MARKET, July 20.— At this our tenth
market for this year's clip we had about 224 sheets of wool,
197 of which were sold, leaving about 27 sheets on hand. The
transactions of the day have ruled upon the prices cf last
month. The quality of the good-bred wools shown to-day
was admitted to be superior, which, in the absence of any rise
in price, would give a turn in favour of Ihe buyers. Scotch
and Moor wools, of good quality and in rlenn condition, were
in demand at from 5d. to 6d. per lb. ; inferior ditto, in dirty
condition, were almost unsaleable at any 'price. — Yorlcshhc
Gazplte.

176

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

REVIEW OF THE CORN TRADE

DURING THE MONTH OF JULY.

The weather, which had not been of the most
favourable nature during June, continued cold and
wet until nearly the middle of the present month ;
but since then we have had hot sunny days, with a
high range of temperature at night. This change
has wrought a great improvement in the prospects
for the ensuing harvest, and has consequently given
rise to anxiety on the part of those holding stocks
to clear out the same previous to the period when
supplies of the new crop may be expected to make
their appearance in the market. Something like a
panic has, consequently, arisen in the trade, and
for the moment the desire to realize is so great that
prices have become very irregular.

Reaping will perhaps be partially commenced
the first week in August, but harvest cannot be
general much before the middle of the month ; a
great deal must, therefore, still depend on the
weather ; but opinion is now so strongly in favour
of a further reduction in quotations, that unless
anything very untoward should take place, the
downward movement will not be easily arrested.
The prevailing impression appears to be that some-
thing very Uke what took place in the autumn of
1847 is about to occur. Most of our readers will
recollect that in May of the year named the average
price of wheat for the kingdom had risen to 102s.
5d. per qr. : fine weather subsequently setting in,
and the importations from abroad continuing on a
very liberal scale, prices began to give way, and by
the middle of September the average had dechned
to 49s. 2d. per qr.

That prices of food will be much lower during
the next twelve months than they have been since
the harvest of 1853, we are prepared to expect;
but we do not look for so great a reaction from
present rates as took place in the year above alluded
to. The position of affairs then and now being
widely different, similar results can hardly follow.
During the present year, the operations of those
engaged in the trade have been characterized by
more than ordinary caution ; whilst in 1847 a few
individuals, whose means were wholly inadequate
to carry out the undertakings in which they had
embarked, speculated to an enormous extent.
Everything which could be collected on the conti-
nent of Europe and in America had been bought
up at extravagantly high prices, and large supplies
continued to be poured into this country during
the summer and autumn ; the bills drawn ao-ainst

the same had to be provided for, and to do this
forced sales had to be made. Under these circum-
stances, prices rapidly declined, the principals in the
speculation were speedily ruined, and many old and
respectable houses were involved ; general distrust
ensued, and the result was a fall of more than fifty
per cent, in the value of wheat. A very diff'erent
state of affairs prevails at present. Our own
farmers have all along viewed the prospects for the
forthcoming harvest as promising, and have con-
sequently sold out in time. Merchants and millers
having distrusted the continuation of so high a
range of quotations after harvest as that which has
prevailed, have gradually prepared for the anti-
cipated fall, and are almost to a man out of stock.
A large proportion of the comparatively moderate
stock held by the principal import houses here, at
Liverpool, &c., is held on account of foreign ship-
pers, who have only been permitted to draw to an
extent deemed safe ; there is, consequently, no pro-
bability of any ruinous losses, and we consider the
trade to be altogether financially in a healthy state.
In case, however, the present splendid weather
should continue, and the outstanding crops should
be favourably secured, prices might, and probably
would, undergo a further fall; and we should cer-
tainly not be surprised to see good wheat down to
60s. per qr. after harvest.

It is yet too early to say much in regard to the
probable yield of the different crops ; but we are
inchned to think that a somewhat too sanguine
estimate of the same is indulged in. Wheat is, in
many districts, thin on the ground, and is not so
free from defects as could be desired. The bloom-
ing time was not altogether auspicious, heavy rain
and high wind having prevailed about that period.
This in some cases caused an imperfect setting of
the corn ; and in addition to this, we fear blight
will be found to have done rather extensive injury.
On the other hand, there are some splendid crops
in different localities, and the breadth of land under
wheat is certainly greater than in ordinary seasons.
We are, therefore, inclined to think that the pro-
duce would, should we be favoured with fine
weather for harvesting, be fully an average, pro-
bably rather over. The quality must of course
depend in a great measure on the manner in which
the crop may be secured.

Of barley, there is, we think, about the usual
breadth, and though some of the heavy crops were

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

177

beaten clown by the rain which fell early in the
month, the general appearance promises a full
average quantity. In regard to quality, it is too
early to speak positively ; but the great heat of the
last fortnight may, we fear, render the grain steely,
and wanting in the kindly properties so much
esteemed by the maltsters.

Oats are less and less cultivated from year to
year in England ; but in proportion to the breadth
sown, a fair return may be calculated on. In Ire-
land and Scotland, the crop is highly spoken of.

Beans have suffered from blight and fly, and will
not yield well.

Peas vary materially : in some districts they will
give an excellent produce, and in others altogether
as unsatisfactory ; the genei'al result may be about
an average.

Potatoes, until within the last fortnight, appeared
to be perfectly free from disease ; but we much
regret to state that a decided change for the worse
has since then taken place, and we greatly appre-
hend that a large portion of this valuable root will
again be lost this year. Within the last eight or
ten days we have received very unfavourable re-
ports on this subject from various parts of Ireland,
and some of the large potato growers in the neigh-
bourhood of the metropolis state positively that
there can be no doubt that the disorder prevails in
a very virulent form to a great extent. This is
likely to prove a serious drawback to the otherwise
cheering prospects for the future.

The hay harvest has been very protracted and
expensive; indeed, some quantity even now remains
to be secured, though cutting was commenced in
the middle of June. A small portion of that cut
very early was well got up; but the major part was
exposed to nearly a fortnight's rain, and is conse-
quently of wretchedly bad quality. Where cutting
was delayed till the second week in July, the whole
has been well carried ; but in every case, the yield
is found to be exceedingly light, and good meadow
hay is likely to command high prices during the
next twelve months.

We are now about to enter on a fresh epoch in
the trade. The harvest of 1853 was decidedly de-
ficient in this country, and over the greater part of
continental Europe; that of 1854 is likely to prove
satisfactory, though not superabundant. Stocks,
it is true, are exhausted to a greater extent than
has been the case for many years past ; still they
have held out to the present time, and are likely to
last until the new produce can be rendered availa-
ble. Those who look to a very low range of quo-
tations will, we think, be mistaken ; but that lower
prices than those consequent on so deficient a year
as the last will prevail is tolerably certain. The
full from the highest point obtained is already 15s.

to 20s. per qr.— on some qualities ]more, on others
less; a further decline of 5s. to 10s. per qr. is perhaps
warranted by circumstances, but if the reduction
should exceed that, we should, we think, speedily
have a reaction.

That we are at war with Russia — the largest
corn-growing country in Europe — should not be
overlooked, when the probable future range of
prices is under consideration. The Black Sea
ports alone have for years past afforded Great
Britain a very large proportion of the entire imports,
and so long as the war continues this supply, if
not wholly cut off, must at least be greatly inter-
fered with.

Previous experience has proved to us that when
those engaged in the corn trade once take up an
opinion they usually run to extremes; and we
should not be surprised to witness a greater decline
than may, after matters shall have been examined
more coolly, prove warranted by the actual state of
affairs ; but in case the fine weather continues,
there will probably be no return of confidence until
after harvest.

We shall now dismiss this part of our subject,
and endeavour to give an outhne of what has taken
place at Mark Lane since we last addressed our
readers.

At that time it had already become pretty evident
that quotations would, under the influence of fine
weather, be sure to give way; indeed, so strong
was the impression that prices would not be main-
tained, that the heavy rain and boisterous weather
with which July commenced failed to check the
downward movement. Meanwhile but little wheat
of home-growth was brought to market; indeed,
up to the period at which we write, there is no in-
crease deserving notice in the supplies of English,
and it is evident that farmers have long since sold
the bulk of the last crop.

The show of samples on the Essex, Kent, and
Suffolk stands on Monday, the 3rd inst., was
trifling in the extreme ; the millers appeared, how-
ever, to be perfectly indifterent about buying, and,
unimportant as was the quantity for disposal, it
was found impossible to place the same, except at
a decline of fully 2s. per qr. on the rates current on
that day se'nnight. During the succeeding week
the depression increased, and on the 10th prices
again gave way Is. to 2s. per qr. ; this was previous
to the setting in of fine weather; Shortly after this
the temperature rose, and the rain ceased; the effect
of this change was greatly to increase the anxiety
of sellers to realize, and to render buyers more
cautious than ever. The fall from the 10th to the
l7th instant was variously estimated at from 38. to
5s. per qr. ; and on the succeeding Monday sellers
appeared to be seized by a complete panic, and ac-

178

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

cepted almost any price that was offered : notwith-
standinpf which, few purchasers came forward, and
at a reduction of 8s. to 10s. per qr. on the rates of
that day week only a partial clearance could be
made. The total fall since the close of last month
has. amounted to very nearly 20s. per qr. ; and
jjresent appearances seem to indicate a further
aljatement rather than any immediate rally.

The arrivals of foreign wheat into the port of
London have not hitherto fallen off to the extent
expected, and about 100,000 qrs. have been re-
ceived during the four v/eeks ending 22nd of July.
Meanwhile the country demand has become lan-
guid, and the town millers have not manifested the
least inclination to add to their stocks. Importers
have consequently had no alternative but to ware-
house, as it has been quite impossible to effect
large sales from on board ship. The quantity of
foreign wheat in granary has increased rather than
diminished, and it has become difficult to obtain
room, A large proportion of what is on hand con-
sists of secondary and inferior qualities from the
Black Sea ; to dispose of these in the present posi-
tion of affairs is altogether out of the question, and
holders will be obliged to wait for something to
turn up in their favour. Even fine Baltic wheat
has i-eceded nearly as much as English ; and Black
Sea sorts have within the last week or two become
v/holly unsaleable. The decline since we last ad-
dressed our readers up to the present time may,
taking all qualities one with the other, be estimated
at about 15s. per qr. Very good Lover Baltic red
wheat, weighing 61 to 62lbs. per bush., v/as sold
on Monday last at 65s. per qr. This may afford
some guide for forming a judgment as to the value
of other descriptions.

If the out-standing ciops should be secured in
dry and good order, the sale of old wheat is not
likely to improve m.uch after harvest; still some
quantity will be needed for mixing; and as there
are hardly any stocks, except here, at Liverpool,
and one or two other ports, there is still a chance
of what is left being wanted.

The arrivals of wheat off the coast from ports
cast of Gibraltar have been quite moderate during
the month ; in the early part a few cargoes were
taken for the continent at full terms, but this de-
mand has since ceased completely, and during the
last eight or ten days scarcely a bargain has been
closed. The last sales reported were a couple of
cargoes of Egyptian wheat, at 41s. to 43s. per qr.
A lot of 2,000 qrs. of Syrian wheat arrived in Lon-
don at 50s., and a cargo of Odessa Ghirka from
Marseilles at 5Ss. per qr., cost and freight. These
terms would now no longer be obtainable, the sales
named having been made previous to the heavy
fall in prices on the 24th inst.

The value of town-manufactured flour has of
course been influenced by the decline in wheat,
but the millers have not as yet given way to the
extent of the fall in the raw material. The nomi-
nal quotation is still 65s. per sack, which being
relatively above the rates at which household flour
has been freely offered, the latter has been used
instead of the former, as far as has been practica-
ble. The reduction in the price of Norfolk house-
hold flour has been even more rapid than that
which has taken place in wheat at the close of June ;
good marks could hardly be bought below 55s. to
56s. per sack, whilst the same may now be had at
43s. to 44s. per sack.

The arrivals of flour from America have not
been large, but there have been pressing sellers of
parcels in warehouse at rapidly receding rates ;
such qualities as were worth 3Ss. to 40s. per brl. a
month ago have within the last week been sold at
33s. to 34s., and 37s. per brl. may be considered
the extreme quotation for extra fme brands. The
stocks remaining on hand are not heavy, and
the imports from the other side of the Atlantic will—
for a time at least — be comparatively small.

Spanish flour has given way quite as much as
any other description, and at Liverpool some very
low sales have been made during the last week or
two,

Enghsh barley has come very sparingly to hand,
and seems to be nearly exhausted in all parts of
the kingdom ; as, however, the maltsters and dis-
tillers are not generally buyers at this period of the
year, and the feeding demand having scarcely com-
menced as yet, v/hat has been brought forward has
proved amply sufficient to provide for the inquiry,
and prices have receded Is. to 2s. per qr.

Tlie arrivals of foreign barley, though not
large, have been more than has been immediately
needed ; and as there has not been the slightest in-
clination to pui^hase, except for present use,
anxious sellers have had to give way. Good heavy
Danish barley v/eighing 53 to 54lbs. per bush,
may now be bought at 35s., and for some of the
inferior southern sorts 26s. per qr. has been ac-
cepted. Some quantity is, we believe, on passage
to this country from Egypt and Syria, on which
heavy losses are likely to be incurred.

The demand for malt has throughout the month
been languid in the extreme ; the brewers appear
to have sufficient for present purpose, and do not
seem inclined to add to their stocks. Quotations
have, within the last fortnight, become somewhat
irregular; the tendency has been decidedly down-
wards ; but too little has been done to allow of
prices being given with much accuracy.

The oat trade has participated in the general de-
pression ; and we are bound to acknowledge that

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

179

we have been greatly deceived in regard to the ex-
tent of the supplies of this grain from abroad.
Notwithstanding the absence of the usual arrivals
from Riga, St. Petersburg, and Archangel, the
imports of foreign oats into the port of London
during the first six months of the year have in
round numbers exceeded the quantity received
during the corresponding time last year by
200,000 qrs. ; and even now we continue to have
good supplies weekly from Denmark, Sweden, and
Holland, though we had been assured months ago
that these countries would be unable to afford
Great Britain further aid. In addition to this, it
appears that the Government have not as yet en-
forced the blockade of Archangel, and we learn
that shipments to some extent were in progress for
England by vessels under neutral flags.

The deductions drawn from the belief that the
want of the annual Russian supply of oats would
occasion a scarcity of old corn to be experienced,
seem, therefore, to have been fallacious j and we
must confess that matters have taken a very diiFer-
ent turn to what we were led to expect would have
been the case. The prevaihng opinion now is that
the quantity of oats remaining on hand, with what
may yet reach us from abroad, will amply suffice
to provide for our wants up to the period the new
shall have become available; and under these cir-
cumstances, buyers are not inclined to purchase
more than needed for immediate requirements.
The partial failure of the hay crop has had little or
no effect on prices, and the tendency has been
steadily downwards since the commencement of the
month. The first step in the decline took place on
the 3rd inst., and amounted to about Is. per qr. ;
for about a fortnight afterwards, prices remained
nearly stationary, but the arrivals of foreign con-
tinuing to exceed expectation, a further fall of fid.
per qr. occurred on the 17th. This concession
failed to lead to a more active demand, and on the
24th inst. (iSIonday last) oats did not escape the
influence of the general depression, and were freely
offered Is. to Is. Gd. lower than on that day
se'nnight. The total reduction since the close of
last month has consequently amounted to 3s. per
qr., and very good Danish and Swedish feed, such
as were then worth 30s., may now be bought at
27s. per qr. Of Eflglish none have come to hand
and the receipts from Scotland have been quite
insigniiicant, whilst the Irish arrival,-; have been
only moderate ; the connunption has therefore been
almost wholly thrown on foreign; but having,
during the four weeks ending 22nd July, received
90,000 qrs. from abroad, the smallness of the home
supplies has not been felt.

Though the reports in regard to the })ean crop
are more unfavourable than those of other articles.

and the arrivals have l;een moderate coastwise, as
well as from abroad, no disposition has been shown
to speculate on higher prices — on the contrary, the
demand has slackened, and the value of both Eng-
lish an<l Egyptian beans has gradually given way
Is. to 2s. per qr.

The transactions in peas have been of so little
importance as hardly to need comment. The arrivals
have been insignificant; but as there has been
little or no demand, either for splitting or feeding,
it has been found impossible to place the sm.all lots
brought forward without giving way Is. to 2s. per
qr. in price.

The want of arrivals of Indian corn from the
Black Sea has been more than compensated by
increased supplies from America. This article has
naturally felt the effect of the important fall in tlie
value of wheat ; and since new potatoes have be-
come abundant, the demand for Ireland has almost
ceased. The business in Indian corn on the London
market is generally confined to the sale of floating
cargoes from eastern ports, and the quantity offered
from Odessa, Ibraila, Galatz, &c., having been com-
paratively small, the trade has been transferred to
Liver])oo], to which the American cargoes have for
the most part been directed. Last week very good
American yellow maize was sold at Liverpool at 32s.
per 480lbs., and we question whether this low price
would now be obtainable there. Should the potato
disease spread in Ireland, as is feared may prove
the case, Indian corn would be very likely to be-
come more valuable ; but at present there is not the
least inclination to speculate in this or any other
article.

The full effect of the fall in the price of wheat in
our markets on quotations on the continent is not
yet known. Up to the time of the latest advices
of which we are possessed, holders of the little
remaining were still sanguine, and not disposed to
follow the decline which was known to have set in
in England. There can, however, be no doubt
that the value of wheat abroad will sooner or later
have to accommodate itself to prices here, more
especially as the prospects for the harvest, though
not particularly brilliant, are generally allowed to
be good in most of the principally corn-growing
countries on the continent.

In the north, the weather during the s])ring and
summer has been similar to that experienced here,
but they do not appear to have had so much rain,
with a somewhat higher range of temperature; wo
think, therefore, that the yield will be fully cqu.al
there to anything we can expect here. Admitting
then, that old stocks are completely used up, still
there will be a considerable surplus for export when
the new crop sliall have I^ren secured ; and though
this may not be available for shipment till late in

180

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

the autumn, without an EngUsh demand, prices
must fall in the Baltic very much below what they
have been during the last twelve months.
With little or no business, and nearly exhausted
stocks, the quotations we received from thence
would be much more likely to mislead than to be
of any service, hence it would be useless to say
more than that thus far prices are relatively much
higher there than with us.

In the south of France harvest is drawing to a
close, but in the northern departments reaping has
only been partially commenced. The reports as
to the probable yield vary materially ; but, on the
whole, we are inclined to think that the result will
not be particularly good. We have seen samples
of the new wheat from some parts of France, of
very inferior quality ; and though we do not regard
these as a criterion of the average ])roduce of the
kingdom, we feel disposed to come to the conclu-
sion that the government are taking pains to put the
best possible face on the matter. Our belief is that
France will not have much grain for export, and
that she may require to import.

In the Italian states the crops of wheat and In-
dian corn have produced abundantly, and are of
excellent quality, the effect of which has been to
cause a great fall in prices. This is important, as
a bad harvest there would have rendered it neces-
sary to obtain foreign supplies from some other
quarter ; the Black Sea ports, from whence in years
of want Italy draws her foreign wheat, being closed
by the war with Russia.

In Spain, Portugal, &c., the wheat crops have,
we believe, turned out well. From Southern Russia
we have reports on which we can depend ; but there
can be no doubt that the grov/th of corn must have
been greatly interfered with, in the Principalities,
by the marching and counter-marching of hostile
armies, and that it would therefore prove difficult
to obtain the usual supplies from that quarter, even
if peace should be concluded sooner than appears
at present probable.

The most recent advices from America speak
well of the harvest in the United States and Canada
as a whole. In some parts depredations are said
to have been committed by insects to an extent
likely to detract materially from the produce; but
the breadth of land under cultivation having greatly
increased, the partial loss in one section of the
States would probably be more than balanced by
the extra breadth in other quarters, and there can
be very little doubt that America will be in a posi-
tion to afibrd Europe large supplies of bread-stuffs
after the crops shall have been secured. Old
stocks appear, however, to be reduced into an un-
usually small compass on the other side of the
Atlantic as well as on this, which will prol>ably have

the effect of preventing so low a range of prices as
might otherwise have taken place. Up to the period
of the last advices, quotations of flour and wheat
were relatively higher there than with us, and the
shipments in progress for Great Britain were no*
important.

CURRENCY PErT IMPERIAL MEASURE.

BhiUin^s per Quarter

Wheat, Essex and Kent, white 67 to 69 extra 71 77

Ditto ditto — — ,.77 79

Ditto ditto red 65 69 ,,70 73

Norfolk, Lincoln. &Yorkali., red.. 63 67 „ 71

Barley, malting, new. .39 40 ... . Chevalier
Distilliug . . 36 38 Grinding.

MALT,Essex,Norfolk,and Suffolk, new 70 71

Ditto ditto old 68 69 „

Kingston.Ware, and town made,new74 75 „
Ditto ditto old 72 74

Oats, English feed . , 27 30 Potato. . 30

Scotch feed, new 31 32, old 33 34 .. Potato 34

Irish feed, white 29 30

Ditto, hlack 22 28

Beans, Mazagan 41 43 ,;

Ticks. 43 45 ,

Harrow 45 47 ,

Pigeon 45 51 ,,

Peas, white boilers 56 57. . Maple 46 48 Grey

Flour, town made, per sack of 280 lbs. — — »
Households, To-j/n 563. 58s. Country — ,
Norfolk and Suffolk, ex-ship .... — — ,
FOREIGN GRAIN.

Wheat, Dantzic, mixed. . 71 to 72 high mixed 73

Konigsberg 73 65 „ —

Rostock, new 69 71 fine

American, white. ... 72 78 red

Pomera.,Meckbg.,andUckermk.,red 67
SHesian „ 66

extra

fine
fine
46
47
49
53
43
63
50
48

42
38
73
72
76
75
33
36
32
30
49
51
53
61
45
65
55
50

per Quarter

77 extra 79
73
75
71
72

71 „
.. 71 .,
69

70 extra . .
70 white 71

Danish and Holstem „ 67 71 „ none

Rhine and Belgium „ — — old — —

Odessa, St. Petersburg and Riga. . 61 63 fine 65 68

Barley, grinding 34 36 DistiUmg.. 37 38

Oats, Dutch, brew,and Rolands 27s., 29s. .. Feed ,. 24 26

Danish & Swedish feed 26s. to 2Ss. Stralaund 28 SO

Russian 28 29 French. . none

Beans, Friealand and Holstein 40 46

Konigsberg.. 47 50 Egyptian.. 43 45

Peas, feeding 48 52 fine boilers 53 56

Indian Corn, white 35 38 yellow 35 38

Flour, French, per sack (none) — — none — —
American, sour per barrel 33 34 sweet 35

I M P E R I A

For the

Wheat.

Week Ending

June 10, 1854.

June 17, 1854.

June 24, 1854.

July 1. 1854.

July 8, 1854.. 76

July 15, 1S54., 74
Aggregate average

of last six weeks 77
Comparative avge.
same time lastyear 46
Duties 1

s. d.
78 9
78 3
77 11

77 8

L AVERAGES.

LAST Six Weeks.
Barley. Oats, i Rye. iBeans
s. d. i s. d. I s. d. 3. d.
1130 8,49 3,49 1
5 Us ll'49 10
6152 2 50 3

36 10

48 0,49 5
48 248 7
51 148 10

37 0 30 2

29 4 1 19 11
10 10

I Peas.

s. d.

147 4

l46 6

J46 10

47 5

!47 1

45 9

49 7!49 547 2

33 7(39 735 3
1 Ol 1 01 1 0

DIAGRAM SHOWING THE FLUCTUATIONS IN THE
AVERAGE PRICE OF WHEAT during the six
weeks ending July 15, 1854.

July 15.

!»-;:.,

Price.

June 10.

June 17.

June 24.

July 1.

July 8.

78s. 9d.
783. 8d.

.. L

"""— T

^ ,

77s. lid.

.. •-

i..>_>_^

77s. 8d.

.. «■

"~"1

76s. 6d.

ai_>Bv.|

749. fid.

0. »

THE FARMER S MAGAZliNE.

181

COMPARATIVE PRICES AND QUANTITIES
OF CORN.

Averages from last Friday's

Averages from the correspoud-

Gazette.

Av.

ing Gazette in 1853

Av.

Qrs.

s. d.

Qrs.

8. d.

Wheat. .

.. 41,808 .

. 74 6

Wheat 86,290 , .

49 8

Barley. .

.. 2,615 .

. 36 10

Barley.. .. 2,285 ..

2^ 11

Oata ..

. 6,447 .

. 29 8

Oats 10,951 ..

20 11

Rye....

27 .

. 51 1

Rye 159 ..

34 10

Beaus . .

. 1,680 .

. 48 10

Beans 2,849 ..

40 5

Peas . .

191 .

. 45 9

Peas 274 . .

S6 8

PRICES OF SEEDS.

BRITISH SEEDS.

Liuseed (per qr.). . sowing — s. to 763. ; crushing 60s. to 643.

Liuseed Cakes (per ton) £10 Os. to £10 10s,

Rapeseed (per qr.) > 683. to 743.

Ditto Cake (per ton) £6 ISs. to £7 5s.

Cloverseed (per cwt.) (nominal) .... 00s. to 00s

Mustard(perbush.) wliite . . — s.to — s.,. . brown old lOs.to 13s.

Coriander (per cwt.) new — 3. to — 3., old 10s. to 153.

Canary (per qr.) 48s. to 523.

Carraway (per cwt.) ,. new — s. to — s., old 44s. to 483.

Turnip, white (per bush.) — a. to — s Swede 00s. to OOj

Trefoil (per cwt.) OO3. to OOs.

Cow Grass (per cwt.) 00s. to OOs.

FOREIGN SEEDS, &c.
Unseed (per qr.). . , . Baltic, 64s. to 68s.; Odessa, 66s. to 703.

Tjnsced Cake (per ton) £9 10s. to £10 lOs.

Rape Cake (per ton) £6 15s. to £7 53

Hempseed, small, (per qr.).. — s., Ditto Dutch, 44s.

Tares (per qr.) new, small 58s., large 64s.

Rye Grass (per qr.) 28s. to 35g.

Coriander (per cwt,) 10s. to 133.

Clover, red 46s., 50s,, Sis. to 56s.

Ditto, white 683. to 8O3.

HOP MARKET.

BOROUGH, Monday, July 24.
In some few quarters a slight improvement in the ap-
pearance of the crop is spoken of, but on the whole the
accounts of the blight and vermin are gloomy in the ex-
treme. Our market is firm ; and the duty ranges from
i;'50,000 to £-'60,000. Hart and Wilson.

POTATO MARKETS.
BOROUGH AND SPITALIELDS.
Monday, July 24.

These markets are extensively supplied with home-grown
potatoes ; but the receipts of foreign are very moderate. We
have a fair demand* for most kinds at full prices. English,
6s. to 73., and foreign 4a. to Ss. per cwt. Last week's im-
ports were 161 tons from Jersey, 132 baskets from Guernsey,
and 24 baskets from Rotterdam.

ENGLISH BUTTER MARKET.
July 24.
Our trade is very dull at a rather serious decline in
prices.

Borsei, fine weekly 98s. <o ]02j. per cw<.

Do., middling ., 86s. io 90*. „

Devon 90s. io 94.s. ,.

Fresh, per dozen lbs 9s. to 12s.

PRICES OF BUTTER,
B alter, per C7Vt. s. s.

Friesland 94 <o98

Kiel 94 93

Dorset 100 104

Carlorv ........ — —

Waterford .... — —

Cork, new 84 94

Limerick ...... — —

Sligo — —

Freih,perdoz.l'i$.6d, 13s. Od.

CHEESE, HAMS, &c.

Cheese, per cwt. s. s-

Cheshire, new..., 66 to 80

Chedder 68 80

Double Gloucester 60 70
Single do. ..GO 70

Hams, York, new..., 76 84
Westmoreland . .. 72 82
Irish 66 76

Bacon 74 76

Waterford , — • —

BELFAST, (Friday last.)— Butter : Shipping price, 883.
to 903. per cwt.; firkins and crocks, 831.to9id. per lb.
Bacon, 548. to 60s.; Hams, prime 683. to 743., second quality ,
603. to 64s. per cwt.; mesa Pork, 903. Od. to 933. per brl. ;
beef, 105s. to 112s. 6d.; Irish Lard, in bladders, 663. to 703.;
kegs or firkins, 623. to 643. per cwt.

Dried Hams, Mess PorJ;.
per cwt. 1 per brl.

B utter.

Julv

per cwt.

21.

s. d. s. d.

1850..

58 0 68 0

18.51..

70 0 74 0

1852.,

64 0 69 0

1853..

80 0 86 0

1854..

88 0 90 0

Bacon.

per cwt.

e. (1.

S. fi

4.5

."50

s. d.

,?.

65 0

62 0

74 0

63 0

CO VENT GARDEN MARKET.

Saturday, July 22.
Peaches and Nectarines are still abundant. The supplj' of
bush fruit is well kept up, and it meets with a brisk sale at about
last week's quotations. Grapes fully realize last week's prices.
Apricots, both English and Foreign, may now be obtained.
Cucumbers vary from 3d. to Is. eaeli. Very good Potatoes are
coming in plentifully. Asparagus is getting over. Carrots and
Turnips are cheaper. Among salad vegetables are Radishes at
Id. to 2d. per bunch; and Lettuces at 9d. to Is. per score.
There are also excellent C.irrots, Globe Artichokes, and Peas
from France; liko\v;se Tomatoes at from 9s. to 12s. a dozen.
Cut (lowers consist of Azaleas, Cyclamens, Heaths, Lily of
the Valley, Pinks, and Roses.

FRVIT.

Pi?ieap2}les,perlb., 3.i 6d to 6s.
fSrapes, hothouse, p. lb.2s. to 5s.
Peaches, per doz., 5s. to 15s.
Nectarines, do., 4s. to 10s.
Melons, each. Is. to is.
Strawberries, lycr lb.,6dto\s6d
Cherries, black. p. 12 lbs.,'2s to 3s
„ white, do. 2s to 4s
Goosebcrries,2).hf.sievc,2s to 3s.
Oranges, per 100, 12s. «o 18s.

YEaBTABLES.

Peas, ]3cr bushel, 2s. to is. I Onions, per buneh, 2d. to id.

Cauliflowers, per doz., Is.toSs. Leeks, per bunch, 2d. to 3d.
Cabbages, par doz., Sd. toXs.Sd Shallots, grce7i,per lb. 6d.toSd
Greens, per doz., Is. 6d. to 2s. Garlic, per lb., 8d. to Is.
French Beans, p .100, ls6dto2s Radishes, 2)cr doz., Qd.to Is

Lemons, per doz., Is. to 2s.

Apples, per bush.,l2s.
„ des.,per doz., 6d. to Is.

Almonds, per peck, 6s.
,, s>vcet,pcrlb.,2s.to2s.ed.

Wain., dried, p. bush., 12s.

Nuts, Bar., perbush.,22s.to2ig.
,, Brazil, p. bush., 16s. to20s
,, Spanish, per bush. ,20s.
„ Cob, per bush., 12s.

Asparagus, per bundle, 2s to is
Rhubaib, per bund.,Sd.to6d
Potatoes, per ton, 115s. to 120s.

,, per cwt., Is. to \0s.

„ per bush., 3s. to is.

„ frame, per lb., dd. to Is.
Carrots, French, ^Jer bunch,

id. to 6d.
Turnips new, do., 2d. to 6d.
Cucumbers, each, Zd. to Qd.
Spinach, p. sieve, ls6dto2s.6d.
Beet, each, 3d. to 9d.
Celerij, per bundle, Qdtols 6d
Tomatoes, per punn, Is, 6rf.

Lettuce, Cab., p. score,9dtols6d.

,, Cos, per score, 6d. to \s.
Small Salads, 2}. pun., 2d to '3d.
Horseradish, 2). bundle, 2s.toit.
Mushroo?ns,p.pott.,9d. to \s6d
Sorrel, 2}. hf. sieve, 6d. to Is.
Artichokes, each, 6d. to 9d.
Fennel, 2ier bunch, 2d. to 3d.
Savory, green,perbunch,4d.to\s
Thyme, per bunch, 6d. to 8rf.
Parsley, p. bunch, 2d. to id.
Basil,green, per bunch, Cd.to9d.
Marjoram, green, do., id.fo6d.
Watercress, p. 12bim.,id to 6d

CHICORY.

LONDON, Saturday. July 22.

The supply of foreign Chicory is but moderate, of English
large. All kinds move oflF slowly, as follows : —

Per ton.
Foreign root (in £ s. £ s. I £ t. £ 1,

bond)HarUngen\0 10 10 15 I Roasted i^ ground
English root( free) I English 15 0 20 0

Guernsey 9 10 11 Oj Foreign 30 0 86 0

Tork 9 10 11 Ol Guernsey 26 0 28 0

HAY MARKETS.

Saturday, July 22.
SMITHFIELD.— A modeiale supply, and a sluggish demand.
CUMBERLAND.— Supply rather limited, and trade dull.
WHITECHAPEL.— Trade dull, at barely late rates.
^ew meadow hay sold at from 60s. to 80s. ; and new clover,
70s. to 90s. per load.

At per load of S6 trusses.
Smithfleld. Cumberland.
508. to 96s. [ 5.'s. to 100s.
65s. 116s. 65s. 115s.
36*. 40s. 36s. 40s.

Meadow Hay
Clover..,.,.,
Straw ,,,,,,

Whitechapel.
48s. to 95s.
■70s. 118s.
34s, 40s,

162

I'HlL f AKMiiiVS MAGAZINE.

OtoO

0 .

. 7

0 .

. 54

0 .

. ()3

3 .

. 0

0 .

. Si

0 ,

. 2

0 .

. 40

0 .

. 42

0 .

, S8

107

0 .

.106

0 .

. 35

0 .

. 42

0 .

. 2

0 ,

0 .

.200

0 .

190

0 .

. 0

0 .

. 0

0 .

. 0

0 .

. 0

0 ,

. 0

0 .

. 0

0 .

a ,

0 .

. 0

6 .

. 0

OILS.

£ s.

Ulive, Florencehalf-chesis ..•'■.^ »." 1 0

Lucca .,.,......> 6 10

OallipoU {252 gallons).,,. ■,, ^,.... > 03 10

Spanish 60 0

Linseed {cmt,) o>.... 1 16

Rape, Pale.-, 2 4

Brown „,,..,. 2 2

Cod{tun) 39 10

Seal, Pale .,., '10 0

Ditto, Brown, Yelloiv, ^-c = ...»... 34 10

Sperm ., .=.,,... ,.,,.....106 0

Mead Matter .......105 0

Whale, Gree7iland.....,..^ ...34 0

Southern = 39 10

Cocoa Nut {cict.) 2 10

PaZw, .....„=>» ..,,.. 2 5

WHALEBONE.

Greenland, fall size {per ton) 190 0

South Sea.. , 180 0

PITCH.

BrHis7i(per cwt.)..., 0 7

ArcJta^i(!cl .,,.,.,,,.,.. , 0 9

Siockholm 0 10

TAH.

American {British) , = .- . . 0 19

Archangel .i., ... ...,., 1 19

Stockholm...... 1 8

TURPENTINE.

Spirits {per cwt.) .. 1 19

l7i P%t,ncheons, , ,.....,.., ,,,. 1 19

Hough.... 0 10

RESIN.

Tcllow (2>cr CKt.) .... 0 8

Transparent 0 7

HIDE AND SKIN MARKETS.

Market Hides, bQ to (Ulbs.. 0 3 toi) S\ per lb

Bo. 64 1-^lbs 0 ■ *

Bo. 72 80i*<i 0

Bo. 80 88Z&.J 0

Do. 88 9uZ6« 0

Jijrse Hides 6

Calfskins, light 2

Do. full 6

Lambs 2

Shearlings 1

WOOL MARKETS.
ENGLISH WOOL MARKETS.

Bekmondsey, July 22. — It is difficult and perplexing to
write on the English AVool trade just now, as consumers are
not disposed to give the local dealers any profit on the prices
now demanded, and in many cases obtained, by the growers,
aud it must be considered a speculation ou the part of the
dealers now giving the prices uatned at several wool fairs re-
cently held in the provinces, as the quotations may be con-
sidered stationary ; aud if those prices are realized in the
various manufacturing districts, what W'ith expenses of col-
lecting, transit, a difference in terms (ready cash at the fair or
farmhouse), aud four or five months' credit to the manufac-
turer, there must be a loss to the local dealer : unless he can
buy at lower rates from the farmer, and realize a higher price
from the manufacturer, he seems, according to the prices of
goods, to be unable to move a step higher in price to meet the
market.

3. d.

Southdoivn Hoggels . . . . 10

Half-bred Hocjgets .. .. 0 11|

Southdoivn Eioes .. , , Oil

Kent Fleeces ,. . . . . 10

Combing Skins .. .. 0 11

Flannel Wool 0 11

Blanket Wool .. .. 0 8

Leicester Fleeces . . . . Oil

BRECHIN WOOL FAIR.— Intdligeuce from Inverness
had an unfavourable effect upon the market. The prices
ranged for crosses 18s. to 20s. ; Leicester, IQs. ; Cheviot
hoggs, 20s. to 233., all per 241bs., washed. Black-faced
ranged from los. to 17s. 6d. for 281bs., washed. The only large
lot of laid wool was sold at Ss. per 241bs.

toi)

.-fi

0 (

CHIPPENHAM WOOL FAIR.— A larger supply thau
usual was exhibited, aud after considerable time spent in de-
bating over the prices, the factor and dealer canie together,
and the whole was cleared off at the following prices : — Tegs,
27s. to 283. ; mixed ewe and teg, 26s. to 27s. ; ewes, 253. to
263. per tod, that being about one-third less price than what
was obtained last year. The quantity pitched was about
11,000 fleeces, although a greater quantity was sold, as many
farmers did not bring the whole of their bulk.

DEVIZES WOOL FAIR, although rather smaller thaa
usual, owing, no doubt, to the indisposition of flockraasters to
sell at present prices, contained thirty-two lots, from some of
the first wool-growers iu the county, including many of the
principal farmers on Salisbury Plain, aud of the hill portion of
North Wilts. There was a large attendance of buyers, and
there appeared every chance of the whole being cleared off
before the close of the market, at higher prices thau have
been obtained at any of the fairs hitherto held. Sales were
made at 283., 28s. 6d., 293., 29s. 2d., 293. 8d., 30s., aud one
prime mixed lot, belonging to Mr. Wm. Butler, of Erchfont,
fetched 30s. 4d.

PERTH WOOL FAIR.— There were but two transactions
— a quantity of laid wool was sold at 7s. 6d. per stone of
241bs., and another quantity of clipped white wool was dis-
posed of at 10s. per stone. £1 was sought for cross hogg
wool, and 17s. offered. Iu Leicester hogg 24s. was asked, aud
from 20s. to 2l3. offered, but no sales were effected in either
of tli636 sorts

ST. SAIRS WOOL FAIR.— This year the quantity in the
market was much about the same as last year. The demand
was good, and the prices got were rather higher than was
expected. The whole was sold off early iu retail, at the fol-
lowing prices. Ciieviot wool, 26s. to SOs. ; Scotch wool, 163.
to 203. per stone of 241bs.

SALISBURY WOOL FAIR. —There were only about
6,000 fleeces offered, and sales were effected at from lid. to
Is. O^d. per lb.

LIVERPOOL WOOL MARKET, July 22.

Scotch Wool. — There has been a little business doing
this week at rather reduced prices, expecting to be able to re-
place^on lower rates in the fairs now in progress ; but at which,
so far, few transactions have taken place. This will apply to
all kinds of Scotch wools.

Laid Highland Wool,per2ilbs
White Highlaiid r?c. , . . . ^ . - . . .
Laid Crossed do . . unwashed . .

Do. do., washed

Laid Chevio i do.. uniHished . ,

Do. do., washed

White Cheviot do ,. ..do

MANURES.

PRICES CURRENT OF OUANO.

Peruvian vluano per ton£ll U OtoHVi 0

„ B. , first class {damaged).. „ 10 10 0 11 0

Bolivian duano {none) „ 0 0 0 0 0

ARTIFICIAL MANURES, OIL CAKES, ^c.

Peat Charcoal „ 0 0 0 0 0

NitrateSoda „ 18 0 0 19 C

Nitrate Potash or Saltpetre ,, 46 0 0 50 0

Sulphate Anunonia ,, 17 0 0 18 0

Muriate ditto „ 22 0 0 2.) 0

Superx)hos2)hatc of Liinc ........ ,, GOO 0 0

Soda Ash or Alkali „ 0 0 0 8 0

Qvpswn „ 2 0 0 2 10

Coprolite „ 3 0 0 3 IJ

Sulphate of Copper, or Roman

Vitriolfor Wheat steeping.... „ 44 0 0 0 0

Salt „ 15 0 2 0

Bones ^ inch per jr. 0 17 0 0 18

„ Dust , 0 18 0 0 18

Oil Vitriol, concentrated per lb. 0 0 I 0 0

„ Brown „ 0 0 Of 0 0

SapeCakcs ,perton6 15 0 7 0

Linseed Cakes —

Thin Ainerican in brU. or bags „ 10 17 6 11 10

Thick ditto round „ 9 15 0 10 0

Marseilles „ 10 0 0 10 5

EnglUh „ 10 15 0 U 0

Odams, PiCKFOKD,aud Keen, 35, Leadenhall-street.

..... 8

6 to 9

..... 11

.... 11

..... 12

I.,.. 13

..... 14

,,.., 21

Printed by Rogerson and Tuxford, 216, Strand, London.

Dra-.m &£ngrcLvcS. by &ihts

Zar^doTb. Tuilijhed, Lj Rogerjari-.^ Tiixtjril. 346. Strand, 1564.

THE FAEMER'S MAGAZIJSFE.

SEPTEMBER, 1854.

PLATE I.

SIR CHARLES NAPIER.

Sir Charles Napier was born on the 6th of March, 1786, and is the eldest son of the Hon. Charles
Napier, of Murchiston Hall, in the county of Stirling, a captain in the Royal Navy, by his second
wife. Christian, daughter of Gabriel Hamilton, Esq., of Westburn, Lanarkshire. The gallant Admiral
is grandson, by a first marriage, of Francis, fifth Lord Napier, brother to Colonel Thomas Erskine
Napier, and cousin to Lord Napier, R,N., who died in China, in 1834.

Sir Charles Napier is a farmer as well as a hero. At the dinner given to him, on the 7th of March
last, preparatory to his leaving in command of the Baltic fleet, the chairman. Lord Palmerston, in pro-
posing his health, said, in direct allusion to Sir Charles's fondness for agricultural pursuits, " If,
gentlemen, I was addressing a Hampshire audience, consisting of countiy gentlemen residing in that
county, to which my gallant friend and myself belong, I should introduce him to your notice as an
eminent agriculturist. It has been my good fortune, while enjoying his hospitahty at Murchiston Hall,
to receive most valuable instructions from him, while walking over his farm, about stall-feeding,
growingf turnips, wire-fencing, under-draining, and the like. My gallant friend is a match for
everything; and whatever he turns his hand to, he generally succeeds in it. However, gentlemen, he
now, like Cincinnatus, leaves his plough, puts on his armour, and is prepared to do that good service
to his country which he will always perform whenever an apportunity is afforded him."

In replying. Sir Charles Napier, in alluding to these observations, said — "The noble lord has enter-
tained the'company by some allusions to my agricultural pursuits, and has given me credit for having
devised some plans for improving the agriculture of the country. He has, however, omitted one plan
that I recommended to him as a means for getting young lambs early. I will not repeat it here, but I
shall be extremely happy to explain it to any gentleman who will apply to me on the subject."

Sir Charles went into the navy as a first-class volunteer before he was fourteen years old. His life has
been one of continued activity in his profession, and involves an infinite variety of services to the state.
He entered the navy on the 1st of November, 1799, on board the Martin sloop, commanded by the
Hon. Matthew St. Clair, employed in the North Sea ; and, in the spring of 1800, removed to the Renown,
74, the flag-ship of Sir John Borlase Warren. He next proceeded to the Mediterranean, where, in 1S02,
he was a midshipman of the Greyhound. After various other employment, he became a Lieutenant
in November, 1805. In March, 1807, he was made Acting Commander of the brig PuUusk. In August,
1808, he removed to the Recruit brig, of 18 guns, in which vessel he fought a smart action with and put
to flight, the Diligente, French corvette, of 22 guns, and 140 men. In this encounter he had his main-
mast shot away, and was himself severely wounded ; his thigh indeed was broken, but he never-
theless refused to leave the deck. In 1809 he served with great distinction in the reduction of
Martinique, and in the capture of the D'Haupoult, 74. In the first of these he considerably shortened
the siege lay the manner in which, with only five men, he landed, scaled the walls, and, in open day,
planted the Union Jack on the ramparts of Fort Edward. In the latter engagement, his services were
sufficiently appreciated, to have him at once posted to the prize.

Passing over a variety of brilliant services, we come to the year 1813, when, in company with
the Furieuse, 36, which had on board the second battalion of the 10th Regiment, under Lieutenant-
Colonel John Pine Cofllin, Captain Napier, in the teeth of the fire of four batteries and a tower mounting

OU) SERIES.] 0 [VOL. XLI.— No. 3.

Isi THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

ten 24 and 18 -pounders, two r2-pounders, and two 9-inch mortars, succeeded in taking possession ot
the island of Ponza. His services in the brilhant expedition against Alexandria, drew from Captain
James Alexander Gordon, the conducting officer, a remark in one of his despatches " that he owed this
officer more obligations than he had words to express." Captain ISapier had been in command of the
Euryalus, and, in June, 1815, she was paid off, when the gallant Captain was nominated a C.B. He
was not again called into activity until 1829, when, for three years, he was employed in particular service
in the Galatea, 4-2. In 1833, he succeeded Admiral Sartorius in the command of Don Pedro's fleet, and
gained a signal victory over the more numerous fleet of Don Miguel, off Cape St. Vincent, a service for
which he obtained the title of Count Cape St. Vincent, with the Grand Cross of the Order of the Tower
and Sword. In 1839, Captain Napier took the command of the Powerful, 84, intended for the Medi-
terranean, where, in the following year, hoisting the flag of Commodore, he became second in command
imder Admiral the Hon. Sir Robert Stopford, of the force engaged on the coast of Syria. On the 10th
September, 1840, he effected a landing at D'journie, on the Syrian coast, in a manner which called forth
the eulogy of his Admiral. In the course of the same month, he defeated a body of the enemy at Kelb-
son, and on the 27th he bombarded, and necessarily stormed, with a force of not more than 900 allies
and 500 Turks, the town of Sidon, protected by a fort and citadel, and a line of wall defended by 2700
men, all of v^hom were made prisoners. On that occasion, at the head of the British Marines, he broke
into the enemy's barracks, and obtained possession of the castle. On the 9th of the following October,
he entirely routed an Egyptian force, stationed, under Ibrahim Pasha, in a strong position on the moun-
tains near Beyrout. The result of the forward movement, which had immediately preceded this success,
was the surrender of Beyrout itself, and the effect of the victory the entire submission of the army of
Soliman Pasha. After co-operating in the memorable attack at St. Jean d'Acre, he proceeded to take
charge of the squadron off Alexandria, where he landed, and concluded a convention with Mehemet Ali.
For these brilliant services, he v/as created a K.C.B., included in the thanks of Parliament, and was pre-
sented v/ith the cross of the Order of St. George of Russia, and the Insignia of the second-class of the
Order of the Red Eagle of Prussia. In November, 1841, after his return from the East, he was made a
naval Aide-de-Camp to her Majesty. He was promoted, in 1846, to the rank of Rear- Admiral of the
Blue; and in May, 1853, he attained his present standing of Vice- Admiral,

Sir Charles Napier married Ehza Elers, daughter of Mr, Younghusband, and widow of Mr. Ewards
Elers, Lieutenant in the Royal Navy, by whom he has issue one son and one daughter.

There are few of our readers but who are well aware of Sir Charles Napier's worth as a sailor
and a hero. Let it be our further province to honour him as an excellent country gentlemen ; and to
introduce him to the patrons of " the Farmers's Magazine" generally, as Lord Palmerston would have
done to the farmers of Hampshire as " An Eminent Agkiculturist,"

PLATE II.

THE IMPROVED LINCOLNSHIRE SHEEP.

The old Lincolnshire sheep, according to Culling, had " thick, rough, white legs, large bones, thick
pelts, and long wool, from ten to eighteen inches, and weighing from 8lb. to 141b, per fleece, and cover-
ing a slow-feeding, coarse-grained carcase of mutton." Ellis, an early writer, saj's " they are the
longest-legged, and largest-carcased sheep of ali others." The Improved Lincolnshire sheej3, of which
we give three fine specimens in our plate, were bred by Mr. Jas. Clarke, of Long Sutton, Lincolnshire,
and exhibited by him at the late Lincoln Meeting of the R. A. S. of England, The three-shear sheep.
No. 3 in the plate, received the first prize in the Improved Lincoln Sheep class, and also the first prize
in the Special Prize Class, The four-shear shee^j. No, 2, received the second prize in the Special Prize
class, and was highly commended in the Improved Lincoln class, there being no second prize. The
two-shear sheep. No, 1, is a good specimen of the Improved Lincoln sheep at that age. The Improved
Lincoln long-wool sheep are now extensively bred in the counties of Lincoln, Cambridge, Huntingdon,
Northampton, Rutland, Leicester, York, and a few in Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, and Norfolk, They
vary much in shape and substance, according to their intermixture of the Leicester blood. The best and
largest breeds of the Improved Lincolns do not possess much of Leicester blood in their flocks ; but
have, by careful selection of both males and females, attained a standing for size and substance, beauty
and wool, unattained by any other .breed. The three-shear sheep represented in our plate measure
5 feet S inches girth, by 4 feet 1 inch in length, and stands 2 feet 7g: inches high, and has yielded olj lb.
v^'ool in three years. Mr. Clarke exhibited, at the Newcastle Meeting, a ewe of this breed, which, when
slaughtered, weighed 65?, lb, per quarter.

We presume no further description is required than what our plate afl:brds. Such substance, wool,
and mutton (good lean flesh) are seldom met with.

THE FARMER^S MAGAZINE.

183

THE WHEAT CROP.

BY CUTHBEKT W. JOHNSON, ESQ., F.R.S.

The anxieties of the farmer seem never entirely
to cease. It is not only the chances of cultivation
that he has to encounter ; bad seed-times, seasons
favouring the more than usual increase of insects,
the visitations of blight, or bad harvest v/eather —
all these may be successfully escaped. The barns
of tije skilful farmer may be full to overflowing ;
his noble stacks may rise in rapid succession ; and
yet, after all these happy events, do the markets
too keep rising, may he reasonably expect that fair
remunerative price for his produce to which all
industrious and skilful manufacturers are justly
entitled ? At a time like this, when the wheat
harvest is nearly secured, let us gather together a
few facts from various sources, chiefly bearing
upon the question of the prices of wheat ; let us
see what information we can produce against the
1st of September; for such hints may be useful to
the farmer on a rainy day, when he, as well as the
partridges and the grouse, have a day of rest.

The farmer well knows that it is the foreign
wheat which chiefly interferes with the ruling prices
of the English corn market. Now the growth of
wheat is limited by the mean temperature of certain
districts : it refuses to grow productive crops in
very hot countries ; it dwindles in very cold
climates ; and yet, as the editor of the Quarterly
Journal of Agriculture remarks (1854, p. 416) —
"Wheat, of all the cereals, requires the most heat;
its culture only begins to be of importance below
60 deg. North latitude in Europe, and considerably
below that hne in the American continent. Meteor-
ological observations lead to the inference that a
mean temperature of 39 deg. at least for three or
four months is necessary for the growth of wheat :
55 is the minimum of the summer heat. Wheat
is not calculated for a tropical heat ; it occurs first
at altitudes corresponding in climate to the tem-
perate and subtropical zone." Mr. Whitley in his
prize essay {Jour. Roy. A(j. Soc, vol. ii. p. 33),
has summed up the meteorological facts influencing
the cultivation of wheat, in language which I need
not attempt to vary ; " for," as he observes, " some
corn-producing plants are exotics — natives of a
warmer climate. Their original locality cannot be
clearly defined ; but there is no doubt that these
grains accompanied the progress of agriculture
from Egypt to Greece, and were spread from
thence over Europe. Wheat and barley have been
found growing wild in Persia, Mesopotamia, and
on the Banks of the Euphrates ; and it has been

contended that the Valley of the Jordan, the
Chain of Libanus, or the parts of Palestine and
Syria which border upon Arabia, may with great
probability be assigned to our cereals as their native
country. These valuable grains have been spread
over the temperate regions of Europe, where they
are naturalized ; and the hardy inferior varieties
have been pushed as far north as the rigour of the
climate will permit. In what part of this cereal
zone are our islands situate ? Certainly not in that
the best adapted for wheat, which is grown in
greater perfection on the plains of Europe, and in
the dry hot summers of Spain. The summer tem-
perature of the cultivated lands of the British
islands varies from 54 deg. to 64 deg. : in the fertile
plains of Lombardy it is 73 deg. ; and in Sicily,
the granary of ancient Rome, it is 77 deg. There
is no part of Europe where the wheat crop is
pressed into so low a summer temperature as in
these islands, and that with a considerable degree
of success. In 1727 a small field of wheat near
Edinburgh v/as so extraordinary a phenomenon as
to attract the attention of the whole neighbour-
hood; and up to 1770 its cultivation was httle ex-
tended. But now abundant crops are seen on the
low lands, the most favourable hill districts are in-
vaded, and the culture pushed as far north as the
Murray Firth, from whence excellent specimens
are sent to the London market. Even in the north
of Ireland, where Mr. Wakefield thought it would
be useless to introduce wheat, it is now extensively
grown. At Hopetoun House, in West Lothian,
where wheat has been most successfully cultivated,
the average summer heat for 26 years is somewhat
below 58 deg. The crop has been pushed so far
to the north of Scotland as where the mean heat
of the season is only 56 deg. ; but then it is only in
warm sheltered vales that the harvest can be relied
on. We find then that in Scotland the minimum
summer temperature required is from 56ito 57 deg.
On the south of England, where the summer days
are shorter, and other things being equal, the
amount of solar heat in the same time is less —
58 deg. are requisite. The influence of seasons and
of climate upon the composition of wheat-flour ia
very considerable. The result of the examinations
of wheat by different chemists varies considerably,
according to the mode of analysis which they
adopted ; hence their comparative results can only
be well compared with the different wheats which
each chemist examined." Davy {A(/ri. Chem., p.

0 2

186

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

150) found 19 per cent, of gluten in the wheat of
Middlesex, 23.90 in some Sicilian wheat, 20 per
cent, in some Polish wheat, and 22.50 per cent,
in some from North America. Vauquelin obtained
much lower results : he found in common French
Hour 10.96 per cent, of gluten; in the flour from
hard Odessa wheat, 14.53 ; in the flour from the
Paris bakers, 10.20 per cent. Boussingault, how-
ever, obtained higher results than either Davy or
Vauquelin : he found in hard African wheat 26.50
per cent, of gluten or albumen; in Sicihan wheat,
24.30 ; and in Dantzic wheat 22.70 per cent. By
deducing the proportion of the nutritive principle
from the quantity of ammonia formed from the
azote contained in each sample, Dr. R. D. Thomson
found that Canadian flour contained 13.81 percent,
of the nutritive principle; Lothian flour 12.30 per
cent.; and United States flour, 11.37 per cent. —
{Quar. Jour, Ac/., 1854, p. 422). Dr. Beck found
m wheat-flour from diflierent American States the
following proportions of gluten {ibid 424) : —

Per cent.

New Jersey .............. 10,90

New York 12.82

Ohio 14.25

Indiana 11.90

Ilhnois 11.25

Michigan.. 11.85

Wisconsin 10.85

Georgia 11.75

Of mucilage or starch, Davy found in the wheat

of Per cent.

Middlesex 76

In Sicilian , 72

In Polish 75

In North America 73

Professor Beck found of starch in that of

Per cent.

New Jersey 70.20

New York , 68

Ohio 67.06

Indiana 6'/

Illinois 66

Michigan 65.60

Wisconsin 67

Georgia 68.93

The increased amount of bread produced from a
given weight of flour is thus accounted for (ibid
420) : — A quartermaster in the United States Army
states that "one barrel of flour, or 196 lbs., when in
the state of dough, contains about 11 galls, or 90lbs,
of water, 2 gals, of yeast, and 3 lbs. of salt-
making in all a mass of 305 lbs. 40 lbs. of this, it
seems, evaporate in the kneading and baking, the
bread amounting in weight to 265 lbs., thus ex-
ceeding the flour employed by about 33.50 per cent.

Of the different wheats and wheat-flours thus
composed, let us next inquire the amount imported
into this country in the year 1853, and, by way of

comparison, the amount 1 4 years previously. Now
this we find in a Parliamentary return of the
Sesrion of 1854, No. 1743. It is as follows : —

Countries. 1840. 1853.

Russia, Northern Ports . . 24,561 252,243

Ports on Black Sea 243,721 818,930

Denmark and the Duchies 153,481 294,926

Prussia 807,204 1,145,845

Hanse Towns 220,762 223,914

Other parts of Germany. . 150,018 185,417

Holland 50,662 57,732

France 48,656 341,444

Italian States 149,343 164,255

Wallachia and Moldavia. . — 227,143

Turkish Dominions 4,802 251,343

Egypt 2,874 357,906

British North America c. 145,041 168,021

United States 355,031 1,582,641

Other Countries 76,604 164,100

Total. . . . 2,432,766 6,235,860

The imports in the past six months of 1854 were
(Pari, Paper, 1854, No. 57, vi,)—

Wheat, qrs 2,593,138

Wheat-flour, cwts 2,941,141

The retrospect of the prices of wheat in by-
gone years affords us, unfortunately, but little secure
data on which to rely, in our calculations as to future

prices. Thus:-

£ s.

In 1603 wheat was .

. 1 15

4 per qr

„ 1653

}> •

. 1 15

6 „

„ 1703

„ •

. 1 16

0 „

„ 1753

,, •

. 2 4

8 „

„ 1803

J, •

. 2 17

1 „

„ 1853

5, •

. 2 13

0 „

When this paper comes before the English
farmer, wheat harvest will not only be just over,
but wheat-sowing will have commenced. Now
there are one or two facts which have been pro-
duced within the last two or three years, which are
well worthy of the farmer's attention — not as
offering certain rules for our imitation on all soils
and in every situation, but as affording valuable
suggestions for new experimental courses of inquiry.
It is pretty certain that the best state to which the
soil should be brought for the reception of the seed-
wheat, is not in all cases well determined. At the
July gathering at Mr. Mechi's farm, some fine
specimens of wheat ears were produced by Mr.
Piper, of Colne Engaine, grown on land which had
not been ploughed for several years, and yet had,
with the aid of top-dressings of soot and other
artificial manures, produced good crops of wheat
every year : here was the result from an undis-
turbed soil. On the other hand, we have the
equally successful, yet opposite practice of Mr.
Smith, of Lois Weedon, who fallows for wheat
every other year — still growing wheat and wheat
only, year after year. His practice he thus briefly

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

187

describes— (see also his "Word in Season/' pub-
lished by Ridgway) : — " I divide my field into lands
5 feet wide. In the centre of each land I drop or
drill my seed in triple rows, 1 foot apart, thus
leaving a fallow interval of 3 feet between each
triple row. When the plant is up, I trench the in-
tervals with the fork easily, taking my spits about
3 inches from the wheat ; and at spring and during
summer I clean them with the blades of the sharp-
cutting horse-hoe, and keep them open with the
tines of the scuffler. Every year, in short, I trench
and cultivate 2^ feet out of the 5 for the succeeding
crop, and leave the other 2^ for that which is
growing. One moiety of each acre is thus in wheat,
and the other moiety fallow ; and the average yield
of that half acre is 34 bushels, surpassing the aver-
age yield of a whole acre on the common plan."
Why wheat should be thus grown for a series of
years on the same land with success in Essex and
in Northamptonshire, and in one place by con-

stantly stirring the soil, and in the other locality by
never ploughing, but by merely hoeing the seed in,
and hoeing it afterwards for the removal of weeds,
certainly seems to be phenomena worthy of our
careful study, when we are considering the state
of the soil the best adapted for the growth of wheat.
Such, then, are a few of the facts relating to the
wheat crop, which have appeared during the present
year. May this little sheaf of knowledge thus
gathered together be useful at the present season to
the great farmers of my country. They, I well know,
are ever wisely alive to every suggestion which points
to an onward road ; and the difficulties which they
have had to encounter, the storms through which
they have successfully persevered, have long since
convinced them that it is only by following out the
suggestions which nature offers, or man occa-
sionally stumbles upon, by attending to her hints,
that the increased prosperity of agriculture can be
secured.

THE IMPLEMENT DEPARTMENT OF OUR AGRICULTURAL EXHIBITIONS.

The "Implement Department" is unquestion-
ably not only the safest, but the most satisfactory
evidence we have, to the advance of modern agri-
culture. The breeding of stock, however laudable
the pursuit, may become too often, like the breeding
of poultry, but an amateur business after all. Or,
if not this, it grows, when accompanied with any-
thing like continued success, into an occupation of
itself; and one more or less independent of the
common business of the farm. The use of im-
proved machinery, on the other hand, is more di-
rectly practical in its application. There is not
one of the many hundreds and thousands of
inventions which we see brought out, and bought
up, but the sole and immediate object of the
designer's is the better cultivation of the soil.
It is possible for a crack breeder to preserve
a long line of short-horns, or to remain in vogue
for a famous breed of sheep, and yet be really
no model agriculturist, either. It would be
strange, though, to find any one armed with
a proper complement of our best implements,
without quickly recognising their effect upon him-
self and on his acres. It is not too much to say
that they improve the mind of the man who has
brought himself to appreciate them, almost as
much as they do the land to which he has applied
them.

It is gratifying to record what the Royal Agricul-
tural Society of England has done towards arriving
at this happy consummation. With some obstinate

anomalies existing still in the management of its
show of stock, and with a lamentable feebleness in
dealing with the abuses so long associated
with the conduct of this department, the con-
trast becomes but the more striking and
agreeable. The Royal Agricultural Society has
ably done its duty here ; in meeting after
meeting has it directed that advancement we
have achieved. Year by year has it, in its awards
and its conditions, compelled the inventor and the
manufacturer to adopt the genius of one and the
powers of the other to the real wants and uses of
the agriculturists. The Societ}', in this instance,
has been nearly all it should be— the pioneer to
improvement, instructing its judges what to encou-
rage and impressing upon its exhibitors what to
strive for.

A year or two since, and we were even
then supposed to have done quite enough. All
our readers may, perhaps, not have heard of a cer-
tain agitation, which never came to a head, amongst
some of the most renowned of our agricultural im-
plement makers. They were quite satisfied. The
Royal Agricultural Society had worked wonders in
the way of perfecting their machinery. They had,
in a word, done quite sufficient ; and henceforth
the best plan would be to save their funds, and have
no more premiums for machinery. Let every firm
that wished it have a stall in the exhibition ; but
let them be at no further trouble or expense in
opposing the merits of one article on this stand to

188

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

those of another a little furthei* on, constructed
and offered for the same object. They were either
of them quite good enough.

We are all old enough to remember what a pace
the coach travelled when there was no opposition,
and how the proprietor or coachman made the
customers suit themselves to his convenience,
instead of him to theirs. Fortunately for them-
selves, the implement makers, or this portion of
them, never brought their wishes to hearing—for-
tunately for themselves, as well as their patrons,
they still enter for premiums, and engage on trials
that tend more than anything else possibly could
to keep the world alive to what they are doing, and
what they have to sell. The prize list of the Royal
Agricultural Society, as now gradually coming to
perfection, is the best advertisement for the good
genuine maker, as the best security for his cus-
tomer. It would have been a bad day for either,
had these well-satisfied gentlemen had their desire.

Is there anything so likely to encourage or dis-
cover excellence as legitimate competition ? How
are we to arrive at it, in any pursuit or condition,
without pitting one against another? And what
would the Royal Agricultural Society have done
without its premiums— its orders, in fact, in other
v/ords, for what was wanted ? Strange as it may
sound, the opinions which a fewof the manufacturers
once owned to, but afterwards so discreetly aban-
doned, have now again been taken up in high
places. In the Times' report of the Lincoln Meet-
ing, one is startled to find such a commentary as
this : —

Tlie Council of the Royal Agricultural Society cannot surely
imagine that their premiums of £5, £10, or £20 have any
influence whatever in inducing business men, the employers
of hundreds of mechanics and artisans, to come to their shows
to exhibit large quantities of goods there, and, even where the
railways are most liberal, which we understand has not been
the case with some in this district, to incur considerable
expense in doing so. The obvious truth is, that they come
because space in the Society's show-yard has a commercial
value without any award of excellence upon trial, and
because that commercial value is immensely enhanced
by a decision of the judges in favour of any article ex-
hibited. Why, then, should a voluntary association, which
works for no pecuniary profit itself, and is bound only to pro-
mote the public good in a specified direction, cripple its means
of usefulness by money payments to people who are so well
o.fT .already ? If a little exhibitor, deserving encouragement,
stands in need of funds, and the society don't know what to
do with their money, by all means let them consider such a
case; but to be pelting with their £5, £lO, and £20 notes
large and prosperous manufacturers is a manifest absurdity ;
and the same arguments apply equally to the breeders of stock.

whose tendency to over-fatten their animals, if it cannot be
reached in one way, might, perhaps, be controlled in another.
At present the Council, by its management, exposes itself to
the imputation of being a mere stalking-horse for the imple-
ment makers on the one hand, and the breeders on the other."

The Council of the Royal Agricultural Society
must surely be satisfied that their premiums — even
in the shape of the five and ten pound notes, which
they have been pelting about — Jiave had wonderful
influence in inducing business-men to come to
their shows. How else the commercial value of the
space in the show-yard ? Is not this not merely
enhanced, but actually created by a decision of the
judges ? If, on the other hand, the Society's
ground was let as nothing but a bazaar or a market,
would it not become that very " stalking horse"
which it now is not ? Would not every business-
man say at once : " I have the best of everything"?
It is difficult to imagine what the writer can be
aiming at, without he wishes to deprive the Society
of that influence which experience has shown us to
be the most practically beneficial of any power it
possesses.

Would he mean to assure us that "pelting five-
pound notes " at people is a mistake ? Would he
have them contend only for medals and ribbons ?
Our own experience assures us that even in such an
excitable part of the kingdom as Ireland, nothing
has proved less effective than offering mere medals,
instead of "pelting the people with five-pound
notes." Mr. William Ton*, one of the judges at
Armagh, says : —

" He would now make an observation with reference to
one portion of the show which required improvement — he al-
luded to the exhibition of implements. The show of imple-
ments, at Armagh, did not come up to the show of animals
in any way whatever ; and he thought it behoved the Royal
Improvement Society to bestow some little portion of their
funds towards effecting an improvement in this respect, for it
was his opinion that instead of giving medals and commen-
dations for implements, a portion of their funds should be
appropriated to giving prizes. It was very well for the exten-
sive implement manufacturer who could procure skill and
labour in the market to get a medal when money was not a
matter of moment to him; but with the small manufacturers
a meJal did not repay their labour, and a lOZ. note was more
acceptable than any such token of superiority."

We shall press no opinion of our own, but let
the Council of the Royal Agricultural Society rest
assured, on the authority of so good a man as Mr.
Torr, that it is long since they have had any such
" manifest absurdity" to encounter as this stricture
of our powerful contemporary.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

189

THE EDUCATIONAL QUESTION.

The educational question is making progress
— just that amount of progress which justifies
the expectation that the grandchildren of the present
rising generation may derive some benefit from it.
The usual parliamentary grant has been voted, with
some increase, to be expended chiefly on the na-
tional schools, in which the instruction given is
very inferior, both to what it ought to be, and what
it might be, for the money. Schools of design, and
schools of mines, in connexion with the Marlljo-
rough House Establishment, have been liberally
provided for; but for agricultural schools there -is
not a sixpence allotted. The magnitude of the
grant, and the little which there is to sliow for it, are
beginning to attract attention, and the leaders of
the daily press are calling out for that which has
been long and frequently advocated in the Mark
Lane Express — a searching investigation into the
revenues of our numerous endowed schools, and
the mode of their administration. There are evi-
dent symptoms that the time is approaching when
the abuses which have overrun them will be re-
formed, and that they will be remodelled, so as to
bring them into accordance with the spirit rather
than the letter of founders' wills, and to adapt them
to the altered state of society and the requirements
of the age.

Deans and chapters are beginning to see that they
will be compelled to augmentthe salaries of the mas-
ters of the schools of which they are trustees, and the
exhibitions of the scholars, in proportion to the
increased value of the property with which they are
endowed, instead of appropriating the surplus to
other channels. Dulvvich College is tln-eatened with
becoming something more than a luxurious sine-
cure for some bachelor of the name of Allen, with
a picture gallery attached to it, and an establishment
for giving, from its splendid income, an apology for
an education to twelve poor boys. The University
of Oxford is to be thrown open, and greater en-
couragement is to be given to the study of the
modern sciences in that venerable seat of ancient
learning.

This last will be a great point gained towards re-
moving opposition to the diffusion, among the in-
dustrial classes, of knowledge that will be useful to
them in their respective calhngs. When another
generation shall have arisen, more conversant with
chemistry, geology, and botany, and other phy-
sical sciences, these will no longer be deemed
dangerous, and there will be less dfead of farmers,

tradesmen, artizans, and even ploughboys knowing
something of them.

Towards the establishment of primary schools, to
be supported by local rates, little or no progress has
been made. Sectarian jealousies forbid it. We
will neither teach secular nor religious knowledge,
because we cannot agree about the forms of rehgion.
Lest the labouring classes should imbibe doctrinal
errors with the horn-book and the multiplication-
table— lest the children of churchmen should
be made dissenters, and the children of dissenters
churchmen, both are left to grow up in brutal igno-
rance and heathenish irreligion. That all education
should be accompanied by religious instruction does
not admit of a question ; but that is no reason v/hy
secular and religious instruction should be given to-
gether by the village schoolmaster, why the church
catechism should be forced upon dissenters, and
why our youth should be taught the Bi])le, by its
being made a task-book.

There are but five solutions of the question — to
leave the children of the poor uneducated ; to leave
them to be educated by voluntary efforts ; to promote
the separate education of the children of each rehgious
denomination by grants of the pubhc money to each ;
to give that amount of rehgious instruction in the
schools, on which all churches and sects can agree,
which will consist of Christianity so pared down as
to be divested of its distinctive characters ; or lastly,
to separate the secular and the religious instruction
— the state furnishing means for the former, and
requiring the ministers of each rehgious denomina-
tion to perform the latter. The conditions of a
religious education will be fulfilled, if all pupils
attending the secular school shall be required to
attend the place of public worship to which their
parents belong, and to receive religious instruction,
on stated days, from their respective ministers. Of
all these plans, the last appears to be the most prac-
ticable, under the diversity which unhappily exists
in religious belief.

In the meantime, while this question has been in
dispute, another' generation has grown up in
ignorance ; and much may be effected for their
benefit by private exertions for the instruction of
adults. The attention which capitalists are bestow-
ing on the improvement of those whom they employ,
is one of the best features of the present day. We
observed, in a recent article, that nowhere are
greater exertions being made to meet the social
evils attendant on the manufacturing system, than

190

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

in the great centres of manufacturing industry.
Manchester, Leeds, and Birmingham are honour-
ably distinguished by their zeal in the cause of
education, and in establishing reading rooms, circu-
lating libraries, baths, museums, places of public
recreation, and other institutions, tending to improve
the moral, intellectual, and physical condition of
the working classes.

A most interesting description was given, a few
years since, in Fraser's Magazine, of a school esta-
blished at the manufactory of Child's night-lights,
and recently of Price's candle manufactory in the
Mark Lane Express, for the benefit of the numerous
boys employed in those establishments, of the
success which has attended the undertakings, and
the improvements which they have effected in the
morals of those employed, even in so unpromising a
neighbourhood as the purheus of Lambeth.

Many similar cases might be mentioned. Among
the most recent which have come to our knowledge
is that of the news-room and library established by
the Poynton and Worth CoUiery, for the use of their
pitmen. Nor must the attempts which have been
made to raise the intellectual character of the
militiamen during the period of their training, and
to withdraw them from the contaminating influence
of the beer-shop, be passed over unnoticed. At
Bodmin, an evening school was opened for the
benefit of such men of the Royal Cornish Rangers
Militia, as chose to avail themselves of it. The pay-
master-serjeant of the regiment acted as school-
master, and the average number of scholars was
thirty.

Why is not something of the same kind attempted
among the wealthy farmers of some of our agri-
cultural districts ? In the cases to which we have
alluded, of a manufacturing and mining population,
and of a militia regiment, their concentration doubt-
less gave great advantages, which are not possessed
by the inhabitants of the rural districts. Never-
theless, there is in most parishes some central point
to which the farmers' men resort, for such recreation
as the beer-shop and its skittle-ground afford ; and
it is certainly worth the trial, whether the combined
exertions of the clergy, the gentry, and the farmers
cannot supply them with a rendezvous of a better
description. From the Tom-and- Jerry to the even-

ing school would perhaps be too abrupt a transition;
though it is not altogether certain whether the
means of acquiring a capability of measuring land
and timber, and of making those other calculations
rendered necessary by the very general adoption of
task work in farming operations, wovild not have
its attractions. We know by experience that lec-
tures about "foreign parts " are eagerly attended.
At all events, a reading room, where news might
be learned respecting the Russian vi^ar, would at
the present time most certainly be frequented. If
arrangements could be made, by which the labourer
might refresh himself with a cheap cup of coffee,
and even occasionally smoke his pipe, without
which he appears too often to think there can
be no enjoyment, there are good hopes that
such a place of resort might prove a formidable
rival to the beershop. This would be a good
step in advance, and the transition vi'ould be
less difficult to more refined and more intellectual
pursuits. The evening school and the village library
would follow. Adults who are unable to read,
might be stimulated to the acquisition of a taste for
literature by meetings, at which some entertaining
volume might be read aloud. The statistics of the
Manchester Library indicate the class of books which
would be most popular. We knew an old farm
labourer who could not read, but who was, never-
theless, well versed in the history of Robinson
Crusoe and his man Friday. He believed both of
them to have been real personages, and it would
have been cruel to undeceive him. Sir John Her-
schell has pointed out, in a tract which he published
on the occasion of the establishment of a village
library at Slough, the benefits which the poor may
derive even from the reading of a novel, as a sub-
stitute for less innocent amusements. He men-
tioned the case of a village, in which the blacksmith,
who was the only man who could read, had become
possessed by some accident or other of" Pamela;"
the villagers were accustomed to resort of an even-
ing to the smithy to hear it read by him; and such
interest did they take in the narrative, that when
they found that the hero and heroine had sur-
mounted all their difficulties and were married, the
assembly were so delighted that they rushed to the
church, and rang a peal in honour of the bride and
bridegroom.

THE POTATO DISEASE.

There cannot now remain a doubt as to the recur-
rence of the potato disease ; and, further, that it
has commenced with all its virulence. The reports

from Ireland are more discouraging than those from
other districts ; from thence it appears to have re-
turned rather earlier than usual. lu the east of this

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

191

country, and in otlier parts, it did not show itself so
early as some preceding years ; and till within the
past week or two, sanguine expectations were in-
dulged that this direfnl visitation had passed away.
We are sorry to say it is far otherwise ; an untainted
field cannot now be found ; the disease is everywhere
rapidly spreading. The only thing to be done is to
modify and curb its effects.

Taking this view of it, and finding there is no
time to lose, I request your indulgence to the inser-
tion this week of the few facts and observations I
have to offer upon the subject.

I have, as a practical farmer and constant grower
of potatoes to some considerable extent, watched
the progress of this disease with great interest ; and
my inquiries have been extensive both as to the pre-
vention of the malady itself, and also the best means
of preserving the crop from its fui'ther ravages when
attacked.

I wish now to give the substance of my inquiries
and observations, hoping it may lead to extended
experiments, and, I trust, and indeed confidently
hope, to great and beneficial results.

Uespecting the prevention of the disease, I shall
at this time say nothing, but confine myself to the
means to be used to preserve the bulbs from further
decay, when once the plant is affected ; in doing
which, I shall take a few facts which can at any time
be fully authenticated.

No 1. Has for six years invariably planted his
crop early, and so soon as the peculiar specks show
themselves on the haulm, giving unmistakeable signs
of the existence of the disease, proceeded to pull it
up ; and in this manner : the workman proceeds
down the row, having one foot on each side of the
haulm, and from between his feet he draws it up, at
the same time pressing down the soil and consoli-
dating the ridge. He has in this way preserved his
crop entirely from further injury, and taken it up in
a very satisfactory state.

No. 2. Has followed the same plan five years with
the same result. He has also carefully covered up
any stray tubers, and repaired the potato ridge, so as
to prevent either rain or air from penetrating freely : is
fully satisfied that this is the most effective plan for
the preservation of the roots.

No. 3. Has practised early planting, and as the
disease appeared he has, for the past four or five
years, taken up the crop, " dressed " them (cleaned
the potatoes by riddling, &c.), and carefully graved
them down in graves about 4 J feet high. By this
means his crop has been fully preserved. At this
time this year's crop is in grave.

No. 4. Plants early {i. e., March) for the past four

years. As soon as the usiial specks confirm the ex-
istence of the disease, he has immediately cut off the
tops, repaired the ridges (so as " to keep out rain"),
and left them till the usual time for taking up. His
crop has been the theme of conversation through-
out the neighbourhood ; it has been invariably
saved. Last year he (as a proof) left two rows un-
cut. The result was that one-half of the potatoes
of these rows were affected ; but not more than half a
peck in two acres were touched on those deprived of
their tops. All his neighbours are this year follow-
ing his example.

No. 5. He is not so early in planting. When the
disease appears, he moulds up the potatoes as
securely as he can with a moulding-plough, leaving
the tops on. He has derived great benefit, but has
not wholly stayed the disease.

No 6. Same as No. 4, and tried the same experi-
ment on a smaller scale. He had no loss where the
tops were cut and the rows again " hilled up," but
full half bad ones on the untouched rows.

No. 7. Has cut his tops off as soon as tainted,
" hilled up" his rows, and preserved his crop nearly
entire.

No. 8. Same as No. 5, is fully satisfied of its
utility ; but it is by no means so ef&cacious as taking
off the tops and closely " hilling them up" again.

I might go on enumerating many more cases ;
but these, I think, will suffice to show that, if the
potato haulm is taken off before the root itself is
tainted, they may be preserved by careful covering.
The exclusion of air and moisture appears indispen-
sable. The practice is fast gaining ground in the
district from which I write ; and as it is so simple,
and really effective, I cannot too strongly recom-
mend its immediate adoption to every grower of this
most useful root. I would urge you to lose no time ;
if your^haulm abounds in specks or the brown spots
so universally known, off with them at once !
Never mind how, but take them off, and mould up
the ridge to a narrow and close top ; and, as a well
known writer says, " I'll stake my agricultural repu-
tation" as to their safety. Be careful on this point.
It is of very little service to adopt this practice if
the haulm is in an advanced state of disease ; the
sooner the haulm is off, when the disease appears
confirmed, the better. It may be prudent to wait a
short time, provided the progress of the disease is
carefully watched, as the bulbs will scarcely improve
after the haulm is removed ; but in no case must the
stalk be left long enough to decay. It is then too
far gone for the tubers to be saved under this experi-
ment.

P. F.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

"A MAN OF THE WORLD."

British Agriculture is becoming quite a man of
tlie world. All his friends — and he has a good
many anxious to be acknowledged as such in a
business-like kind of way — are found to be the
more and more ready to own it. He is no longer
the selfish, shy, exclusive it was once so common
and so safe to account him. Whethei' exactly of
his own seeking or not, he has, in fact, been brought
rather prominently before the public, where he
offers his opinions, debates his rights, and gives
and takes with all the now tried discretion and
experience of that most desirable of qualifications
to a character — a thorough knowledge of the world.
He is, indeed, according to the conventional ac-
ceptation of the term, a farmer no longer. The
farm, as he was wont to call it, is his shop ; the
soil his raw material, and himself a manufacturer,
tradesman, or whatever title may sound best to the
ear of so practical an authority as " the commercial
man." He buys and sells like other people — of
course the one in the cheapest and the other in the
dearest market — providing only he knows how to
do so. If he does not, there are many now on the
list of his acquaintance who will be happy to show
how to achieve this grand desideratum. They have
more than volunteered this already, anxious only to
instruct him in every art and science that may
enable him to keep his standing as " a brother
tradesman."

And does the British agriculturist reject this
handsome offer of assistance ? As a man of the
world, he most assuredly does not. He welcomes
his friends. Manufactures and Commerce, whenever
he has an opportunity. The healths of two such
distinguished visitors stand amongst the most pro-
minent of those in his toast list. He feels the
weight they should have in a society of Enghsh-
men, while he has personally to thank them for so
much good-will expressed by them towards him-
self.

It is true that at times, without the semblance of
anything like a real quarrel, there has been some
little difference, and may-be consequent coolness
between them. We will imdertake, however, to
say that this has rarely been the fault of the agri-
culturist. Take him either as landlord or tenant,
and you will seldom find him now offering inten-
tional offence to others. It is well known enough
that he will occasionally help to " put down" a
noisy orator who is arrogating all to himself, and
nothing to others. It is true he may ask for the
evidence to some such a fact as this : " Is it quite

certain, as this gentleman so energetically states,
that I am as simply a dolt as he is surely
a Solon ? Have I, or is there any right,
Messrs. Manufactures and Commerce, that I
should be treated in this manner by one of your
side ? I am quite willing to keep friends. I
am ever ready to acknowledge you as very good
customers ; while I hope I may do something in
return. I am very much obliged to you for all the
hints and advice you have given me ; but just ad-
mit for a minute that I know something more, per-
haps, about my own business than you do. And
so caution our noisy friend here to say what he
has to say, as the henpecked husband begged of
his wife, ' with a little less nonsense about it, ray
dear, if you please.' "

We may rest assured that it is not the agricultu-
rist— either landlord or tenant, we repeat — whose
acts are tending to lessen the happy union between
their own class and others in the state. There is
scarcely a meeting now passes but that speaker
after speaker turns himself to this point.
Practical men, whose chief if not whole interest
has been associated with the soil, advocate what
they feel must be to the advantage of all. There is
a great amount of caution against anything like the
appearance of insult. The intention is to cement
as well as to honour ; and they thus cheerfully ask
a reciprocity of feeling and assistance, on terms to
which neither side need reflect upon but with satis-
faction.

Who are the farmers' friends ? What are the
farmers' chief props and pioneers ? Points often
enough put, in cross-examination. Practice with
science— full and free use of capital— a thorough
understanding between landlord and tenant — a
hearty union with manufactures and commerce — a
becoming regard for those we employ. These,
and some few more, are old stories, but they are
very true ones, and mark how happily, how with a
kind of artless art one of the class of speakers we
have referred to has contrived to mingle all, one in
with the other. We quote the Honourable Octa-
vius Buncombe, chairman of the meeting of the
Cleveland Agricultural Society :

" He trusted that agriculture and commerce
would be long united, and that they would see
around them on each successive triennial occasion
of their assembling there or elsewhere the repre-
sentatives of those two great interests, combining
together landlord and tenant, manufacturer and
artizan, so as to prevent at all times anything like

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

193

discord between all these parties (applause). He had
lived long enough, and had studied sufficient of the
history of the country, to know how important the
well-being of each of those interests is to the other.
He trusted that in future this combination would
be so complete, that no spirit of rivalry or distrust
might be created, and that the two interests, on the
contrary, would be found united for the achieve-
ment of one common object, viz,, that of promot-
ing the general interests of the district, and the
happiness and prosperity of the country at large."

How often might we multiply such addresses as
these ! and how much do they speak to the credit
of the country ! Were the farmer that dolt, or
mere piece of prejudice, he is sometimes painted as,
he would never listen or give the authority of his
" applause. " He is, on the other hand, we must
repeat, a man of the world, ready to give and take
in the same spirit in which he is treated, and in
reality as anxious as any one can be for the lasting
union of " agriculture, manufactures, and com-
merce."

HARVEST PROSPECTS,

Oar country is always, at this season of the year,
in a most anomalous position : every one is on the
utmost stretch to gather correct information as to
the coming harvest, and notwithstanding much in-
dividual effort is brought to bear upon the subject,
much statistical data is sought for by the agricultural
journals, and great conibiuatiou in giving reports
from different districts has resulted, yet nothing
definite or conclusive can be arrived at : all is yet
conjecture, though somewhat nearer tlie truth. A co-
temporary has this week a long list of contributors to
this desideratum: but we only gather from it the ap-
pearances at a certain time, in given districts; and all
we arrive at is this -. — A promising wheat crop ; a fair
crop of barley and oats ; that beans and peas are in-
jured by fly, &c. ; that peas are a fair average, pota-
toes much tainted, hay very light, and green crops
promising. I repeat, all we arrive at is this, and in the
present state of our agricultural statistics it may be
useful ; but it is most unsatisfactory as a guide to agri-
culturists or to their customers. We want a regular
system for the collection of such statistical informa-
tion ; and I trust no effort will be wanting on the
part of the producers to induce the Government to
accede to it. In the absence of such information,
any reasonable opinion is of some value ; and, as it
has been my pleasing privilege this season to visit
several districts extending over a considerable surface
of the kingdom, I will venture to give mine. In
passing I would observe, that some of the districts
visited are yet in a wretched state of cultivation : I
trust it only needs a notice to lead to correction, I
will further say, that I remarked that properties mider
able agents were admirably farmed ; and I regret to
say that I noticed the reverse of this. Let landlords
look to it as it belioves them : " Like priests like
people." I will take the crops consecutively, and
as briefly as possible.

Wheat. — Previous to the late rains, we had upon
all good loams and the lighter soUs a highly satis-
factoiy prospect. How beclouded now ! Witliia the

past week or two these crops have suS'ered very
severely, not only from being beaten down, but from
actual blight : scarcely a field has wholly escaped.
It does not take off large breadths, but patches here
and there, and single ears and roots almost every-
where. On all heavy stiff soils the crop is not
satisfactory : in many parts it is thin ; in others, it
evidently shows the drought of March and frosts of
April. On those soils where badly farmed, it is
scarcely worth harvesting ; on the better soils the
crop is notv remarkably varied, and will produce an
uneven sample of dou!)tful quality: the bulk is
great, and, should the weather prove propitious, the
yield of grain will be good, but I think not a full
average. The breadth sown is, no doubt, extensive ;
and, talcing this into consideration, the produce of
wheat for the season may be taken at a general aver-
age of years, but not more ; and the quality will be
coarse, and not heavy : the yield of flour not in pro-
portion to the weight of grain. I venture to say that
the wheat crop will disappoint very greatly the
sanguine anticipations formed of it a very short
time ago.

Barley. — On all the barley soils the crop is good,
and, notwithstanding it has been much lodged by
the late storms, it still looks promising. The plant
was not too thick, and consequently retained much
strength in stem, so as not seriously to retard its
progress. The yield will be fair, and the grain will
make good serviceable malt, but very little of really
fine quality. The grain will weigh well, but be
coarse. On strong adhesive lands it was almost im-
possible to get in the seed owing to the drought,
consequently many crops are thin ; but they have
borne the storms bravely, and I think the best bar-
leys will be from these soils. Eah- quality, but light
yield.

Oats. — I never knew the crop so varied and
unequal; some splendid, others wofully thin and
weedy ; the height and bidk of some crops are as-
tonishing ; the produce on good loamy or open soils

194

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

must be very good. On strong lands, where the tur-
nips were late in feeding oIF, it was a trying task to
get in the seed ; the crop, of course, is in accordance.
For several weeks no rain came, and a most uneven
plant is the result, and the growth equally so. This
crop cannot be a fall average one, and the sample
must be uneven ; indeed much must be cut before
ripening — the difficulty being to decide as to cutting
the early or latter growth in the crop.

Bea^s. — On aU strong loams and open soils this
crop surpasses those of former years ; and the flower-
ing season was all we could desire, giving evidence
of a most productive crop. It has continued pro-
gressing till within the past three weeks, when it
was attacked by the aphis fly or bean-dolphin, which
are at the present time making sad havoc. I greatly
fear that most serious injury wiH result — the in-
crease is astonishing. Eields comparatively free a
week or two since are now almost covered. On strong
clays the crop is nearly a failure, and many fields
have been ploughed up. The bean crop, as a whole,
cannot be an average one, nor is the breadth sown
great.

Peas. — This crop is now very generally sown
early ; the plant, consequently, came up before the
drought, and has passed through the most astonish-
ing season for flowering ever known ; the podding
was enormous, but small. They progressed favour-
ably till the late storms beat them down, and now
every symptom of premature ripening shows itself,
and the crop is scarcely recognizable from weeds ;
and the green fly or aphis is greedily at work ; so
that, notwithstanding such a splendid prospect, it
will, like the bean crop, in all probability be an in-
ferior one in yield, and the quality must be defective
and very irregular.

Potatoes. — The early growth of this crop was
much retarded by a dry sterile season, and the growth
of top has been slight, which leads to the supposition
that the crop will not be productive, and further,
it will be late. The disease has held off rather longer
than usual, and the bulbs from suspicious plants are
yet right ; and from extensive examination, I know
this to be the fact. However, it is certain the disease
has manifested itself in many districts ; large
breadths arc tainted, and great fears are entertained
as to the result. A less breadth has undoubtedly been
planted ; and should this great source of food prove
scanty, it would soon show great influence in the
corn market. Why are we not to be made acquainted
with the breadth sown ? We cannot go on properly
without statistical information. The crop cannot,
as a whole, be a satisfactory or an average one.
Seeds.

Turnips. — This has been the most precarious
season I have known. The dry winter and drought
in March made sad havoc with the bulbs, and when

in full flower the frosts in April did irreparable
injury. Many crops were destroyed, and many al-
lowed to stand proved very unprofitable. The de-
fective ones have been about three-fifths of the
whole. This will make some varieties of turnip-
seed dear. Even now much seed is selling at from
40s. to 50s. per bush. The common varieties are
yielding badly. The Red Globe, the best of the
common varieties, is a poor crop. Swedes prove
better.

Coleseed. — The dry spring was very unfavoura-
ble to this crop, and few were able to make head
against it. Many intended to stand were ploughed
up. The yield will be bad from a small breadth of
land.

MusTABD (brown). — The breadth sown this spring
was trifling, but it has proved well, and the result is
likely to be good ; but as the quantity is less, the
average crop cannot be that of former years.

Mustard (white). — The high price of the past
year induced many sowers to supply the market. I
do not remember to have seen a larger breadth de-
voted to this crop, and appearances are highly fa-
vourable. The supply will be considerable.

Canary-seed. — The low prices comparatively
offering for this article have almost forbidden its
growth. The breadth sown this year is small. The
crops are fair, but the average supply must be much
less than usuai.

Chicory. — This has latterly come largely into
agricultural cropping. The breadth sown this year is
less than usual, and does not look very promising as
a whole. Some good crops appear. The supply,
however, cannot be an average one.

Plax. — This is becoming an important crop, and
more extensively grown. The crops look very pro-
mising, but more profitable for seed than fibre. The
crop wiU far exceed the average for the kingdom,
and we wish the growers and dressers every success,
as being a novel feature in our agricultui'e.
Hay and Green Crops.

Hay and Grass Seeds. — The crop of mea-
dow hay is a truly bad one in almost every dis-
trict. The months of March, April, and May were
peculiarly dry and ungenial for the prosperity of the
hay crop, as uideed for all grass crops, the grazing
lands not feeding the usual amount of stock. Clovers
and grass seeds, although better, have turned out a
short crop ; the whole, with few exceptions, have
been fairly secured — nothing has been got up in
first-rate state ; but little however is spoilt. The
abundance of the straw crop may (with a good sup-
ply of cake) in a measure make up this deficiency ;
otherwise our winter provender would be a matter
for very grave consideration : as it is, every effort and
economy must be used to eke it out.

Green Crops.-— These, as a whole, are very good,

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195

and will aid much to supply the want arising from
a defective hay crop.

Mangolds. — This is by far the worst of the green
crops. I never knew such an ii-regular plant, and
so unaccountable in its growth — from the same seed
it is equally so. There will be but few good crops of
mangolds ; they came up badly ; much effort was
used to fill up the spaces, but still it is an unsatis-
factory crop, many running to seed ; and latterly the
green dolphin, or apliis, has done it much injury.
The leaves are curling, and discoloured. A con-
siderable breadth is soavu, but the crop will not far
exceed a modicum.

Swedes. — This is a splendid crop, and retains as
yet its full vigour, colour, and promising appearance ;
the crop is a full one throughout. The sowing was
accompanied by frequent showers, and the land was
in fine condition. Proper artificial aid was put in
with the seed, and the early growth was unexampled.

Should it escape mildew, it will be the finest crop on
record.

Turnips.— These are not quite equal to swedes;
but they are growing very luxuriantly, and we have
every prospect of an excellent crop. Perhaps it is too
forward, and may cause some lo?s in the winter.
Plock-masters must sec to it, and, to make up for
defective quality in the bulb, give plenty of corn or
cake.

Coleseed. — This is progressing rapidly, and will
prove well ; a large breadth is not sown, but the
quantity of food will be great for the autumn — the
time when this crop is, according to modern prac-
tice, fed off to be sown with wheat.

Cakrots. — The breadth sown with this crop is, I
think, very short, and they are backward and weedy.
it cannot reach a full average crop, but as it is not
much grown for our winter supply, as such will not
make much difference in our provender.

THE PAST SESSION.

It is rarely now that the agriculturist turns out of
his way to see what Parliament is going to do for
him. He is nearly tired of relying upon others, and
has come more and more to act and think for him-
self. The most he would ask at present, of those
in high places, is but fair-play in that race he has
to run against the world. Let him only enjoy those
faciUties so readily conceded to others, and we
shall find him even less troublesome than he has
been. Few classes, after all, have submitted more
readily to change of circumstance. Fev/, indeed,
that would have fought their way more honestly
through a difficulty, considering how much they
have suffered, and what little compensation they
have received.

We are here at the close of another session,
with one grand, unanswerable reason for any work
still undone, or any promise yet to be performed.
It is an excuse, too, an Englishman is willing
enough to admit. The careful preservation of our
honour must ever be the first consideration of a
state, as it is of an individual. Before this, all
domestic comforts or amendments necessarily await
a more seasonable opportunity for their considera-
tion. It has been so here. Every man, with a
grievance still unredressed, sees plainly enough
" the reason why." Any one, with a hope directly
encouraged at the beginning, needs not to ask why
his wishes are no nearer fulfilment at the end. Sel-
dom has a minister lived through the labours of his
half-year with less call to explain the cause of his
having accomplished so little.

It was but little comparatively, we repeat, the

farmer had to look for ; and even this could have
resulted no more in an advantage to himself than
to the community. That passage in her Majesty's
opening speech which told us to prepare for an ex-
tension in the law of poor-law settlement, con-
templated but another consistent improvement in
the condition of the labouring man. It was one,
moreover, which this time would serve him without
in any way threatening to injure his employer. On
the other hand, it was admitted and prayed for by
both as a piece of free-trade long wanted, and with-
out which no such system could be ranked as
perfect. The Government evidently had something
more than a mere leaning to the wishes of these
two powerful classes, and it can scarcely be put
down to the fault of those in office that more was
not done with the measure. In the game of
question-and-answer henceforth to be played at the
hustings, let us not forget to inquire as to "What
is your opinion on the law of settlement ?"

There is another one the cultivator of the soil
has been asking often enough— another stone to
be laid in the solid foundation of a liberal fine of
policy, the adjustment of which just now looks
rather worse than ever. It would seem, indeed,
that the less the farmer has to say the more is
he cared for. The more, on the contrary, he
complains, the more is he oppressed. There must
be something radically wrong in this, and let him
ask himself what it is ? Are these really ills which
he talks of as such ? Is it only justice, after all,
that he is praying for ? And if so, how is it that
he is treated with so little consideration ? How

l96

I'HE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

comes it that, when he prays for relief from a bur-
den, he has but to wait patiently and — see it in-
creased ?

It is the same echo-answer still— the war. This
may be something, but this is not all. Speak it
out, and there is no class so poorly represented as
the agriculturist— none whose battles are fought
with so little energy, and none who consequently go
so surely to the wall under "force of circumstance."
The experience of the past session furnishes us with
but further proof of this. Somebody must suffer —
the war requires it. This is amply sufficient, and
under such force of circumstance who can afford to
suffer so handsomely as the farmer? He is used to it,
and we all know how well he bears it. There is no
one of course present to say such an argument nay;
and as the malt duty is about the heaviest and
most unfair imposition he has to contend with — as
it is one above all others from which he has so long
petitioned for relief, let us increase it forthwith.

This will raise so much : the war demands it, and
he will pay it. There is no resisting such reasoning,
and so home go the farmers' friends to tell their
admiring constituents how ably they have fought
their cause.

It is true there are some honourable exceptions
here; but how many, on the contrary, who have
professed to go right with the farmer have gone as
directly against him ! Men who take to them-
selves high positions as agricultural authorities,
and as the leading champions of the cause. Staunch
farmers' friends and consistent free-traders, let ns
record them — who vote for an increased tax upon
malt, in evidence of their attention to their brother
farmers' wants, and their own appreciation of that
unrestricted system to which they stand engaged.

The war can be hardly made to answer for all
our evils ; and our readers, if they so choose, may
learn, again, from this past session, how much may
be made to depend on themselves.

THE WHEAT TRADE

Sir, — The season has come round when it is desirable to
take a review of the wheat trade during the past year ; and
by referring to the statistics we entered upon a twelvemonth
ago, and comparing them with the results of the year's com-
merce, ascertain how far they served us correctly in making
an estimate of the resources at our command for supplying the
acknowledged deficiency in the home produce. It is im-
possible to take a step in this inquiry without feeling the want
of those data which would be supplied by the establishment of
district inspectors, who would collect certain information on
the subject : and until such an institution is established, we
must be contented to grope along in the dark, judging from
analogy, instead of actuality, and leaving it to the conditions
of the present and future to rectify the errors of the past.

Upon referring to my letter of the 29 th of September,
1S53, I find that I estimated the aggregate deficiency in the
growth of wheat that year as follows : —

ars.

Deficiency in breadth sown one-fifth, or 3,200,000

Do. in produce on what was sown two-sevenths, or 3,657,143

Add to this the average annual importation

6,857,143

5,000,000

Total 11,857,143

Upon referring, again, to the Gazette returns of the sales of
wheat in the various towns in the United Kingdom, I find
that the falling off during last year, as compared with previous
years, was 33 per cent. Now, taking the annual growth of
wheat at 16,000,000 qrs., a deficiency of one-third gives
5,300,0G0 qrs., or thereabouts. If, therefore, the surplus of
1^ million quarters, which I estimated was in excess of the
average stock of wheat at that season of the year, be admitted,
the account will stand thus : —

Qrs.

My estimated deficiency 6,857,143

Less a surplus of 1,500,000

5.357,143
Actual deficiency of 33 per cent, on 16,000,000, say 5,300,000

I shall next turn to the entire deficiency of the season, which
I estimated as follows : —

ars.

Deficiency in crop 6,857,143

Average importation 5,000,000

11,857,143
Deduct surplus stock , 1,500,000

Total deficiency 10,357,143

This enormous deficiency has been met in two ways, namely,
by an increased importation, and by a reduction of the stock of
English wheat, under the stimulus of high prices. By a
reference to the monthly letter of Messrs. Sturge and Co., of
Birmingham, it will be seen that they estimate the present
stock of English wheat at five millions less than usual ; and on
the other hand, the importations of wheat, and flour as wheat,
from the 5th July, 1853, to the 5th July, 1854, according to
the Board of Trade returns, amount to 6,869,430 qrs. The
year's account will, therefore, stand as follows : —

Qis.

One year's importation 6,869,430

Reduction of stock 5.000,000

11,869,430
Estimated deficiency 10,357,143

Surplus in hand 1,512,287

This surplus is about the actual quantity of foreign corn

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

197

now in granary, chiefly in London, Liverpool, and Gloucester,
and constitutes the principal part of the stock of old wheat
that the trade will have to work upon at the commencement
of the next season. Thus, the scarcity which, under the cir-
cumstances- of the country, was apprehended as the conse-
quence of the war, has been averted by the stimulus of high
prices, influencing both the foreign and the home groweis;
the latter having been induced, under an apprehension of the
war being speedily terminated, to bring their whole stock of
wheat to market, without any reference to the future.

One word respecting the sources from whence the bulk of
the supply has been obtained. It was feared last year at this
time, that in the event of hostiUties, the supplies of wheat
from Russia would at once be cut off. Two circumstances,
however, have intervened, which were not then supposed likely
to prevent this — Nicholas had plenty of wheat which he wished
to turn into money, and John Bull had plenty of money which
he wanted to convert into wheat; and thus, in spite of war,
the mutual wants of the hostile nations have operated more
powerfully than their mutual animosities, so as to keep the
Russian ports open for exportation to the last minute. What
may be the case the next year, it is impossible to conjecture.

In regard to America, my estimate of her exporting power,
founded upon the past, was considerably under -rated. I
have had some intercourse with a respectable merchant of New
York, who has explained that, although my statements would

apply strictly to the eastern states of the Union, the exporta-
tions no longer rest with them ; that large tracts of prairie
land in the western states, rich, fertile, and free from timber,
have been broken up and sown at once, and the produce can
now be conveyed (by railway or canal) to the eastern ports or
New Orleans for shipment ; and that, consequently, they would
in future be able to supply us with largely increasing quan-
tities, whilst they are sure of a market, subject, however, to
the common fluctuations of the crops in America, as well
as here.

Under the stimulus of high prices, the American farmers,
like our own, have shipped largely, and reduced their stocks
to the minimum. It appears that we have imported from
thence, in the eight months up to the 1st of May, nearly a
million and half of wheat, and flour as wheat, which, with the
exception of 1847, is more than we ever imported from thence
in any year.

From Prussia, too, and other of the countries bordering on
the Bailie, an extra quantity has been exported on account of
the war, and an apprehension that the stocks might not be
safe. From France, the supplies have probably been, as near
as possible, balanced by our exports to that country, nor is it
likely we shall have much from thence the next season ; but
this must be discussed in a future letter.

Yours truly,

London, 15(/t August, 1854. S. C.

FORESTALLING AND JOBBING IN SMITHFIELD MARKET.
MEETING OF MASTER LONDON BUTCHERS.

On Friday evening an important meeting of master
butchers and others connected with the trade, which did
not terminate until a late hour, was held at the George
Tavern, Commercial-road East — Mr. J. Horton in the
chair — to take into consideration the present ruinous
practices of "forestalling" and "jobbing," so much
pursued in the Smithfield Market, and the necessity of
petitioning the Corporation of the City of London for
its suppression.

The Chairman opened the proceedings by stating that the
subject which brought them together deeply interested three
classes, viz., graziers, butchers, and the public (Hear, hear)_
The object sought was to put down a set of men known as
" forestallers " and " jobbers," who for years had been the
greatest enemies to the three classes mentioned, and especially
to the purchasers at shambles ; for when they compelled the
butchers to pay a higher price than the cattle would cost in a
fan: market, the butchers in turn were obliged to charge their
customers the extortion price ; and here was the whol e secret
of the present high price of animal food (Hear, hear). These
«' forestallers " and " jobbers " awaited the arrival of cattle
trains at the stations, where they bought up the cattle from
the graziers, aud then compelled the butchers to pay some-
times 30 per cent, beyond the fair marketable price (Hear,
hear). It was an important question, in which the public
were deeply interested ; for by uprooting the pernicious system
they could be supplied with meat at three-halfpence, twopence,
and threepence a pound cheaper than they were now paying
Hear, hear). Indeed, it was as important as the great bread,
question ; for it seriously involved the interests of the poor
beyond whose reach animal food was to a great degree put by
its exorbitant price (Hear, hear).

Mr. Collins (purveyor to the Royal Family) said that it
would be unnecessary for him to enter into twenty-five years'
experience which he had of the baneful results of the trickery
of "forestallers" and "jobbers," for they were almost self-
evident, and should be at once met and averted by the proper
authorities (Hear, hear). The infamous system was progress-
ing year after year from bad to worse, and its effects had been
more keenly felt during the present year than on any previous
occasion in the high price of meat (Hear). Notwithstanding the
great influx of visitors in 1851, when the London markets were
deficiently supplied with meat, it was then three-halfpence to
twopence cheaper than during the present year, when the de-
mand was much less and the supply greater (Hear, hear). If
he happened to be in the market before 5 a.m., he found it
wholly in the hands of "jobbers," v,'ho had the butchers at
their meicy, and made them pay what price they pleased (cries
of " Shame, shame," and of " It's too true"). Was that legi-
timate trade ? (Hear, hear). If not, why did the authorities
tolerate it? (Hear, hear). That being the case, they should at
once petition the Corporation against its being allowed in the
new market, which they would prevent, unless they (the Cor-
poration) wished to close the market against the butcher and the
public in favour of the unfair illegitimate dealer (Hear, hear).
It was well known that these forestallers purchased the cattle,
and even sold them again, at the railway stations before they
reached the market, thereby defrauding the Co"poratiou of the
market tolls (Hear, hear). During February, March, April,
and May, through this system the fair market prices were
abolished, and many master butchers wers thereby reduced to
bankruptcy (Hear, hear). He himself had thus lost £30 in
one month, which his books proved. As the Lord Mayor con-
fessed himself ignorant of the existence of such abuses, they
(the master butchers) were bound to expose the abominable

198

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

aad intolerable grievance (Hear, hear). The public as well as
the butchers were bound to seek its removal, as the price of
provisions was the great question of the day. The evil was
heavily felt by the poor, who had to go without meat diet
through its exorbitant price, which, by the abolition of the
forestalling system, would be reduced twopence and threepence
a pound (Hear, hear).

Mr. Collins, who is the promoter of the present crusade
against forestalling and jobbing in Smithfield Market, moved
the adoption of the following petition, signed by 600 of the
trade, and which was headed —

" The Petition of Master Butchers to the Lord Mayor«
Aldermen, and Commons of the City of London : —

" Your petitioners beg to call the attention of your Honour-
able Court to an evil of no ordinary character, and which, if
not speedily prevented, cannot fail to raise the price of animal
food to an alarming extent. Your petitioners allude to the
disgraceful system of forestalling and jobbing which prevails,
not only at all the principal railway stations, but in the Great
Metropolitan Cattle Market of Smithfield. Your petitioners
beg to state that thousands of head of cattle which are sent to
London for the purpose of being submitted to fair and honour-
able competition in the open recognized market are intercepted
by a class of men known as forestallers, and frequently pass
through several different hands (especially on Sunday and
Thursday evenings) before being sold in a legitimate manner
to the regular butcher in Smithfield. By the prevalence of
this system large quantities of cattle are divided and sub-
divided amongst numerous jobbers, till the ordinary rule of
conducting a public market has become grossly perverted, and
the whole reduced to a system of irregularity and imposition.
The system not only inflicts a serious injury upon the original
owner of such cattle, who is thus prevented from receiving the
proper market price, but is alike injurious and unjust both
towards the retail butcher and the public at large ; the former
being deprived of his legitimate profit, and the latter compelled
to pay the most exorbitant prices. Your petitioners would re-
spectfully suggest there should be a fixed time for the ad-
mission of stock for each day's sale (except legitimate foreign
arrivals), as well as a fixed time for the market to be cleared
out, or closed. Your petitioners beg to state they are fully
prepared to prove the allegations contained in this petition,"
&c., &c., &c.

The petition was adopted nem.con.

Mr. Aldbekt, in alluding to the petition, said that by the
forestalling system the butcher had to pay lOs. for bullocks,
7s. for calves, and 5s. for sheep, beyond their hona fide market
value.

Messrs. Hick son, Potter, and Rippington also exposed the
vile, ruinous working of the forestalling system, and earnestly
called upon all master-butchers, and also the graziers and
public, to join in the efforts making to crush the system.

A vote of thanks to the Chairman concluded the night's
proceedings.

MR. CULLEY'S DESCRIPTION OF A NEW
LEICESTER SHEEP IN THE DAYS OF
MR BAKEWELL.

Sir, — ^The just and wise remarks made in your journal, in
the description of the sheep shown at Lincoln, has caused me
to send you the far-famed and celebrated Mr. CuUey's descrip-
tion of the New Leicester sheep in the days of Mr. Bakewell
of Dishley. " The head should be hornless, long, small,
tapering towards the muzzle, and projecting horizontally

forward ; the eyes prominent, but with a quiet expression ;
the ears thin, rather long, and directed backwards ; the neck
full and broad at its base, but gradually tapering towards the
head, and particularly fine at the junction of the head and
neck — the neck seeming to project straight from the chest ;
so that there is, with the slightest possible deviation, a con-
tinued horizontal line from the rump to the poll; the breast
broad and fall ; the shoulders also broad and round, and no
uneven formation where the shoulders join either the neck or
the back, particularly no rising of the withers, or hollow be-
hind the situation of those bones ; the arm fleshy through the
whole extent, and even down to the knee ; the bones of the
leg small, standing wide apart, no looseness of the skin about
them, and comparatively bare of wool ; the chest and barrel
are at once deep and round in the ribs, forming a considerable
arch from the spine, so as in some cases, and especially when
the animal is in good condition, to make the apparent width
of the chest seem greater than the depth ; the barrel ribbed
well home ; no irregularities of line on the back or the belly,
but on the sides the carcass very gradually diminishing in
width towards the rump ; the quarters long and full, and as
wide as the fore legs ; the muscles extending down to the
back ; the thighs also wide and full ; the legs of a moderate
length ; the pelt also moderately thin, but soft and elastic, and
covered with a good quantity of white wool — not so long as in
some breeds, but considerably finer."

" Such is the Leicester sheep, as Bakewell made him. He
found him as different an animal as it was possible to conceive
— flat-sided, large-boned, coarse woolled, slow to fatten, and
his flesh of little value." — Taken from the Farmers' Magazine,
Dec, 1841, page 436.

Mr. Hewitt, the owner of the Dodford flock, has been
aiming at the above cast of a Bakewell sheep all his life, with a
little thicker collar. His father began breeding rams by pur-
chasing some ewes bred by Mr. Bakewell.

86, Vauxliall-street, Vauxhall, Surrey, S. A.

July 26, 1854.

COTSWOLD SHEEP v. LINCOLNS,

Sir, — It is plain by the great royal show of stock at
Lincoln, that the Cotswold sheep stand pre-eminent in the
weight of mutton, and width of frame; and that the Lincoln
sheep stand unrivalled in the weight of wool. It appears that
Mr. Lane's old prized Cotswold sheep girthed 5 feet 11^
inches ; and Mr, John Clarke's old sheep, of Long Sutton, in
Lincolnshire, which has taken two prizes in the Improved
Lincoln class, girthed 5 feet 8 inches, and he clipped in three
years no less than 51|lbs. of wool. Of course such a sheep,
taking his wool into consideration, must be of immense value,
to produce sheep upon all land where clover and turnips can
be grown. The wool cut from Mr. Lane's sheep in three years
is not stated. Common sense says that a dip of the Cotswold
with the Lincoln would widen the frame of the Lincoln ; and a
dip of the liincoln would increase the weight of wool in the
Cotswold. Some of the Lincolnshire breeders say that the
two abo?e-named breeds will not amalgamate so well as the
Leicester with the Lincoln. Let it be judiciously tried, and
grub-up by the roots all old deeply-grafted prejudice before
they begin. While the Lincolnshire men have made wool
their great object, the Cotswold breeders have made the
Bakewell barrel form, with gigantic size, their study to obtain,
until the Cotswolds, as they proved at Lincoln, are the best
great sheep for carcass upon the face of the earth, and the
Lincolns are unequalled for wool. The said Mr. Clark, of
Long Sutton, says — " I keep my Lincoln long-wooUed
character, and have the substance and rapidity of growth of
the Cotswolds." A good example for others to follow,

86, Vauxliall-street, Vauxhall, S. A.

August 9, 1854,

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

199

GROWTH OF FLAX.

To Mr. Warnes, of Trimmingham, belongs tlie
merit of having introduced tlie feeding of cattle
with linseed raised upon the farm. Flax-growing,
however, has made little progress, even in his own
neighbourhood, in the long period during which he
has been cultivating it, and that for two reasons.
One of these is the reluctance of Norfolk farmers
to deviate from the regular and celebrated four-
course rotation, which takes its name from the
county. The other is the want of a market for the
flax in the straw. The former objection might in
time have been obviated but for the existence of
the latter. Many farmers are convinced of the
feeding value of the flax crop, who are disgusted
with the trouble of becoming manufacturers during
a part of the year, in order to prepare the tibre for
sale, and who were disappointed at the low price
offered them for their straw, if perchance a purcha-
ser for the crop in that form could be found. That
very low price arose, in most cases, from some
slight neglect of the minutise of cultivation, on
which the quality of the fibre depends.

The admitted value of the linseed for feeding
purposes tempted some to persevere for a time in
the cultivation with no other object. They either
littered their yards with the straw, or used it for
thatching. On the whole, however, the advantages
of flax-growing, thus conducted, were not found so
great as to compensate for deviation from estab-
lished routine ; and men have given it up who
would have extended their breadth of this "golden
crop" of Belgium if they could have found a m&rket
for the straw as well as the seed. The result is,
that, so far from the growth of flax having made
much progress in Norfolk, it has retrograded from
the point which it had attained a few years ago.

Mr. Warnes himself was partly the cause of this
failure, by attempting too much, and riding his
hobby too hard. A pamphlet of his is now befoi'e
us, bearing the title of "Flax versus Cotton, or a
Double-edged Sword against Pauperism and
Slavery." In this 6?'oc/2Mre he deprecates the estab-
lishment of that intermediate interest between the
grower and the spinner, for which we contend, and
which is so generally considered essential to the
extension of the flax culture. He designates it as
a removal of everything, root and branch, from the
land ; adding a hope that landlords will not permit
their tenants to fall into jilans so deteriorating to
the soil and their dependents. He proclaims war
to the knife with the steam-engine. The steam-

thrashing mill is a " monstrum horrendum that
tramples upon the privileges of the husband-
man"— an iron man that eats not, and therefore
does not consume the farmer's produce. It
displaces the labour of the poor, and indirectly
muzzles the ox which treadeth out the corn. All
processes, whether of agriculture or manufacture,
are to be conducted without the aid of machinery.
There is to be no division of labour. The farmer
is not to be satisfied with raising the flax ; he must
prepare the fibre, and, if possible, carry the manu-
facture to its last stage, and sell his flax crop spun
and woven into linen cloth. In preparing the fibre,
he is to scutch it by hand, though anyone who will
take the trouble of looking into the Belfast papers
may see that hand-scutched flax bears a lower
price in the market than that prepared by
machinery. Scutching mills are as great an
abomination as steam thrashing mills, to Mr.
Warnes. Inventions such as those of Schenck,
Watts, and Buchanan, for dispensing with the
tedious process of retting, are in equal disfavour
with him. The only deviation which he will tole-
rate in this matter is, that the Belgian method of
steeping in running water shall supersede those
which have hitherto prevailed in Britain. Flax is
with him what a pickled herring is to the Dutch-
man—a sovereign remedy for everything; a panacea
for all the evils, social, moral, and political, which
afflict the world. Pauperism in England, and
slavery in America, are to disappear before it. It
is to empty our prisons and depopulate our work-
houses : it is to be taken up as a profitable specu-
lation; but is to serve two masters, by having
philanthropy engrafted on it. Industrial schools
are to be established, with farms of 200 and 300
acres attached to them, which are to be cultivated
by boys, who are to raise and prepare flax, which
the younger portion of the female inmates are to
spin, and to knit into stockings, gloves, and socks,
and the elder portion are to weave into towels and
sheets. The refuse is to be manufactured by some
of the boys into rope-yarn and sacks. Mr. Warnes
would have us not rest content with growing on our
own soil a portion of that annually increasing flax
produce which our steam-driven spindles consume
— and for which, by the way, they have created the
demand; we are to eradicate flax from Russia and
cotton from America. " Cheap hnen," he tells us,
" would do more towards the abolition of slavery in
the United States than armies and navies ever can."

200

THE MKMliR'S MAGAZINE.

By the emijloyment of our own people in the pro-
duction of cheap linen, we are to put a final ex-
tinguisher on pauperism, and thus to lay the axe
at once to the root of the two nnost inveterate evils
linder the sun.

These are pleasing visions, but they are nothing
more. All this anti-commercial and anti-machinery
feeling is but a fighting with windmills— a running
of races against railway-trains — a putting back of
the hands of the clock, while the shadow on the
dial is advancing.

For good or for evil, the use of machinery is ex-
tending itself in every direction ; it is the life and
soul of our manufacturing prosperity. Of the
economic advantages of our manufacturing system
there can be no question ; that it has its moral and
social evils no one can deny. It is in vain, how-
ever, to think we can meet them by pulling down
our tall chimneys, and attempting to return to
domestic manufactures. True practical wisdom
consists in going with the current, and at the same
time steering clear of the rocks, and the shoals, and
the whirlpools, on which, without due precaution,
it m.ay carry us. We must accept machine-spun
flax and cotton as a fact accompHshed. We
must endeavour to suck the honey of those indus-
trial hives, and escape their stings— to avail our-
selves of their economic advantages, and to meet
their evils by appropriate remedies. Nowhere are
more zealous efforts making to remedy those evils
than in our most busy marts of commerce, and
amidst the densest masses of our manufacturing
population. Those efforts have every prospect of
success, from the energies of the men who make
them, and the power of combined action which,
from habit of co-operation and concentration of
position, they possess. The labouring population
of our rural districts suffer under social and moral
evils quite as great as those which affect the opera-
tives of our factories. It is for the owners and oc-
cupiers of land to remedy these evils, by improving
the relations between themselves and their depen-
dents. Flax growing is no more a remedy for them
than hop gardens or apple orchards. The prosperity
of agriculture is to be promoted not by making the
farmer a Jack-of-all-trades, but by extending to it
that division of labour which has proved so suc-
cessful in manufactures. The use of machinery
in the culvivation of the soil has increased, is in-
creasing, and will increase, as any one might have
convinced himself who attended the late exhibition at
Lincoln. Some may deprecate it, but they cannot
prevent it ; and its extension is quite compatible
with an improved condition of the agricultural
labourer. The least instructed, even among the
labourers themselves, are laying aside their preju-
dices against it as a displacer of the poor man's

labour. Times are changed, also, since the pam-
phlet of Mr. Warnes was written. One of his
objects in promoting the growth of fiax was to find
employment for the unemployed labourers of the
rural districts. Scarcity of hands is now the com-
plaint among the farmers, and the necessity for an
extended use of machinery in the work of cultiva-
tion admitted, however reluctantly, by those most
opposed to it. It is invading even the least ad-
vanced of our agricultural districts. We have
drawn attention to what is visionary in the advocacy
of flax-growing by Mr. Warnes, with no unfriendly
feeling, but because there are those who confound
it with that which is valuable and practicable in his
system. The valuable and practicable part ^is the
box-feeding, and the feeding with linseed grown
on the farm ; and to render this more generally
available by the farmer, all that is requisite is such
a division of labour as we advocate, by which he
shall be the grower only of the flax, and not the
preparer of the fibre, and such a farther division of
labour in the work of cultivation as we shall point
out on some future occasion, which will relieve him
from much of the trouble and risk attending the
flax crop, and prevent it from interfering with the
regular routine of the system of farming which he
adopts, whatever that system may be.

The sulphur employed in the manufacture of sul-
phui'ic acid is derived so largely from Sicily, that
Naples possesses a virtual monopoly of the trade ;
and when, a few years ago, the King of the Two
Sicilies involved himself in some dispute with this
country, he was very near losing this valuable
monopoly. The interruption of the trade occa-
sioned no little stir among those manufacturers —
and they are many — whose business depends on
the abundance and cheapness of sulphuric acid.
Our farmers then knew nothing of the virtues of
superphosphate of lime ; but, had the stoppage of
the sulphur supply taken place now, when sulphuric
acid is so largely used for the solution of bones and
mineral phosphates, the excitement would have ex-
tended to the agricultural interest. As it was, the
prospect of the loss of the Sicilian sulphur stimu-
lated our miners, chemists, and manufacturers to
make every exertion to fill the vacuum from other
sources. No less than fifteen patents were taken
out in England in one year for recovering sulphur
from the sulphuric acid used in the manufacture of
soda. The cessation of the dispute postponed the
prosecution of the attempt to some future period ;
but an impulse was given to research, which had
the obstruction continued a little longer, might
have caused the total loss of the sulphur trade to
Naples. Veins of iron pyrites were beginning to
be worked solely for their sulphur. The sulphur
of our sulphurets of lead and copper, which is

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201

now dissipated in the roasting process of the smelt-
ing of those ores, would have been collected, and
means would have been devised for manufacturing
sulphuric acid from the native sulphates of lime and
barytes, which abound in our island.

In like manner, the hostilities in which the am-
bition of Nicholas of Russia has involved the
world, may deprive his people of the English mar-
ket for their flax. Important as several articles of
the raw produce of Russia are to our manufactures,
there can be little doubt that in the event of a pro-
tracted war, substitutes for them will be obtained
from other quarters. The blockade of the Russian
ports has already reduced the Custom-House
revenue of St. Petersburg to one-fourth of what it
was at this time last year, but even that blockade is
not rigorous enough to please our shipping interest.
They have memorialized the Government on the
necessity of its being rendered more stringent, in
order that neutrals may not enjoy advantages, from
which they, as belonging to one of the beUigerent
nations, are debarred. The manufacturers of paper
have likewise urged, and the Government have pro-
mised, that the attention of our consular and colo-
nial authorities shall be directed to the search for
substitutes for flax and hemp, among the fibrous
products of other parts of the world.

Necessity is the mother of invention; and the
ingenuity of those dependent on the manufacture
of flax is at present taxed to discover processes
which may render it capable of being spun without
going through the process of steeping, technically
called retting. Sanguine expectations are enter-
tained by some of the practical men engaged in
flax-spinning, that scutching without retting may
produce an article which will answer for those
purposes to which the greater portion of the flax
imported from Russia is applied ; that is, for the
manufacture of the coarser fabrics, and it is of
these that there is the greatest increase of con-
sumption. Twine, sail-cloth, packing bags, and
coverings for railway waggons, are move in demand,
and ever must be, than cambric pocket-handker-
chiefs. If all flax must be retted, it is quite clear
that it cannot be produced in Britain, with a profit
both to the grower and preparer of the fibre, at a
price of less than £60 the ton — Russian flax ave-
rages about £40. English flax, scutched in the
green state — that is, without being retted — can be
sold at that price, and it is expected that it will be
of superior quality to that of Russia, for the manu-
facture of the coarser goods. For the finer fabrics,
it will probably be impossible to dispense with the
steeping process in some form or other ; though at-
tempts are now making to supersede it, by boiling
the roving or partially spun flax, or by the use of
chemical preparations to free it from the resinous

substances which at present are got rid of by
retting.

If green scutching shall succeed in producing a
good description of flax for the commoner purposes,
it will greatly facilitate its growth in this country.
The cost of preparing the fibre will be diminished
by one-half; and as it requires eight tons of straw
to produce one ton of fibre, the distance from the
flax-spinning centres of Leeds, Belfast, and Dun-
dee, at which flax can be successfully grown, will
be increased eightfold. A scutching mill, too, can
be erected for two or three hundred pounds, whereas
one of Schenck's retteries would cost ten times
that sum. The crop would also be rendered more
rapidly marketable ; for the steeping, in whatever
way it may be performed, is the most tedious part
of the process of preparation.

Among the attempts now making to discover
methods by v/hich other fibrous materials than flax
m.ay be employed for the purposes to which that
alone has hitherto been applied, Dickson's patented
machine and liquid may be mentioned.

We have now before us the patentee's account of
the substances on which he operated in the presence
of gentlemen connected with the flax and hemp
trade, and the results which were obtained.

" I have made," he says, " the Himalaya hemp
so soft, fine, and white, that it will not only take
the place of Petersburg flax— now £60 per ton, the
best of v/hich can only make 40s. warp yarn — but
it can be used in place of Dutch flax at £80 per
ton, and I speak from twenty years' practical ex-
perience when I say it is capable of being spun into
60s. warp yarn. I first cut it up into two lengths,
and so break it and clean it by my patent machines,
as to allow my patent liquid to penetrate it. By
this process it is so softened and divided, that it
will split, when drawn over the fine hackles, as fine
as any Dutch and Belgian flax.

"The Rhaia fibre or Assam grass, when so pre-
pared by the machines and liquid, is a finer and
consequently more valuable fibre. It is equal in
strength and fineness to China grass at £lOO per
ton. The Vercara, which very much resembles
Belgian flax, is also well calculated for prime warp
yarns, and worth £100 per ton. The Nielgherry
nettle is a most extraordinary plant; it is almost
all fine fibre, and the tow is very much like the fine
wool of sheep, and will, no doubt, be largely used
by wool-spinners. The pine-apple and jute, for fine
purposes, cannot be questioned ; and nothing can,
for strength, come up to the Calcutta hemp. The
Yucca rjloriosa (Adam's needle) produces a white
fibre, that will, when made into I'ope, lift a fourth
greater weight than rope of similar size made from
Russian hemp. The Madras hemp and Bombay
and Sunn hemps will at all times command a

p 2

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THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

market, when properly cleaned out, at £45 to £50 a
ton, for twines or common purposes. The plantain
requires no comment, its value being known in the
market. But then there is one other fibre more
worthy of remark than all the others — the fibre ob-
tained from the Ananassa sativa (wild pine-apple),
would command any price from £150 per ton
upwards, for the spinning of yarn for the fine cam-
bric manufactures in Ireland, as the fibre is finer
than anything yet discovered."

Mr. Dickson does not confine his pretensions to
the improvement of these foreign fibres : he pro-
poses to prepare British flax in the green state, as it
comes from the field, by scutching alone, or some
similar process, without retting. He professes to
obtain more fibre from a given weight of straw, and
of better quality, the tow double the value of retted
tow, and the long flax strong, white, more silk-like,
and finer than if prepared by any other process, and
worth from £100 to £200 per ton.

If these results are attainab! e on the large scale, they
are of the highest importance. A letter is given
from Dr. Royle, dated February 28th, and expressed
in the following terms :— " I have received the spe-
cimens of East Indian fibres which you have been
good enough to put through your machines and
liquid. The effect is marvellous on many of them;
and I feel, from what I have seen, that your ma-
nagement must be admirable to convert such ugly,
rough-looking fibres into silky, hair-like material,
Messrs. Noble have by accident sent the other flax
fibres also, which I have looked at and admire
much. There is a great abundance of fibres in
India well worthy the attention of merchants."

The real questions, however, are how will these
fibres and flax, thus prepared, stand the ordeal of
the factory, and can they be prepared economically
on the commercial scale ? Patentees are always
sanguine. They are possessed with one idea, and
without intending to deceive others they frequently
deceive themselves. We must be contented, we
believe, to employ retted flax for the finer ])urposesj
but we have good hopes, that for the coarser kinds
of goods, green-scutched flax may be used instead
of Russian, and that the growth of this crop in
Britain may, by these means, be greatly extended.
It is not only our textile manufactures of flax and
hemp which are likely to suffer inconvenience from
a dearth of fibrous materials : the manufacture of
paper is nearly in the same predicament. The war
has by no means originated this state of things,
however it may aggravate it. The reduction of the
duty on paper which took place a few years ago
has exercised an important influence. The intro-
duction of a cheap literature also, and the diffusion
of a taste for readmg, which act and re-act on each
other, as cause and effect, have so increased the

consumption of paper as to render it very pro-
blematical whether the repeal of the remaining taxes
on knowledge, as they are called, would much
reduce the cost of diffusing it. Unless new sup-
plies of the raw materials of paper can be dis-
covered, it may be expected that an increased
demand will so raise their price as to neutralize the
reduction which would otherwise take place on the
finished and printed article, in consequence of the
repeal of the remaining paper duties, and any modi-
fication of the stamp duties which would extend
the circulation of newspapers.

We adverted, in a recent article, to the repre-
sentations which have been made by the paper
manufacturers to the Government on this dearth of
materials ; and the promise of the latter, that our
colonial and consular authorities shall be instructed
to collect information as to the practicablity of
obtaining new fibrous substances from our own
dependencies, or from foreign countries. While that
article was in the press, a letter from Mr. Samuel
Gregson to the President of the Board of Control,
on the resources of this kind which our Indian
Empire affords, has made its appearance. It con-
tains many details respecting the statistics of the
paper trade ; so interesting to our readers, as well as
ourselves, that no apology is required for directing
attention to them.

It is well known to those most ignorant of
common things, that old rags are used for the
manufacture of writing paper, and that for this pur-
pose linen rags are superior to those of cotton. It
would be interesting to trace back the metamor-
phoses of the paper on which we write. We might
speculate on the native country of the flax from
which its parent rags were made; whether it was
grown in Russia, or Ireland, or Belgium ; or
whether it formed a portion of that much smaller
flax contingent which is contributed by English
agriculture. We might question it as to what it
was in the first complete stage of its manufactured
existence, whether cambric, or shirting, or canvas.
We might follow it through the different stages
of its downward career ; we might see it clothing
the fair and the wealthy and the mighty ; we might
trace it from the most aristocratic class of old clothes
shops to those of the lowest grade — now forming
part of the holiday wardrobe of the shabby-genteel
— now pawned to purchase a dinner — now hanging
in tatters on the back of the beggar, till its tatters
will do duty as a garment no longer. Then we
might see it in the shape of a bundle of rags en-
tering one of those establishments which abound
in the back-slums of all our great towns, which
delight in such questionable neighbourhoods, and
are themselves of so questionable a character, that
their occupants have been dignified with the title

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203

of " Dealers in marine stores," honoured with a
license from her Majesty to exercise their calling,
and recommended to the particular care and atten-
tion of the police. Had we seen that which now
constitutes the snow-white sheet before us, entering
one of these receptacles, where it is announced by
placard that the best price is given for old rags,
for bones, and for kitchen-stuff, or where the
mysterious black doll, and the large blade bone,
announce the same facts in the language of hiero-
glyphics, and intimate to the initiated that "bones,"
in more senses of the word than one, are bought
and no questions asked, we should have been re-
luctant to believe that any connexion could here-
after exist between those rags and ourselves. Still
less should we have been disposed to acknowledge
any possibility of a future acquaintance with them,
had we examined the strange and miscellaneous
companions with which they were associated ; had
we smelled the foetid odours which the collection
exhabled, and breathed the atmosphere with which
they were surrounded.

But brighter days are in store for those old rags.
This is but their temporary resting-place, on
their way to a better country, a purer atmosphere,
and a higher destiny. They are bound for the
banks of the Medway, the Cray, or the Darent, or
some stream equally clear, flowing through fields
and by woodlands equally lovely. It was on the
Darent that the first paper mill that ever existed in
England was established. There they will be
purified and renovated, and come forth in a new
form, to minister once more to the wants of
civilized life, and to be applied to the noblest of
purposes or the vilest, to the improvement or the
corruption of the mind of man.

It would be interesting to follow them through
the course of their renovation, which is now ren-
dered so rapid, by means of the application of
machinery to paper-making, that it appears more
like an operation of magic than a manufacturing
process. We might, again, moralize on the subject,
and compare the present and the future state of
man to rags and paper, as they have been compared
to the caterpillar and the butterfly; but our subject
is the statistics of the paper trade, and to that we
must hasten. It appears from the statements of
Mr. Gregson, that by far the greater portion of the
rags employed in the manufacture of paper are of
home production, quoad rags, from whatever
country their raw material may have been origin-
ally derived. The rags imported are chiefly from
Germany and Italy, and they amount to no more
than one-twelfth part of the entire consumption.
Our transatlantic brethren are such large con-
sumers of paper, that the internal supply of rags in
the United S*^^ates is unequal to the demand, and

they are extensive purchasers of them in this
country. Some may regard this as a proof of the
absence of poverty in that land of liberty and
equality. There are fewer wearers, it may be said,
of rags there than in England ; but on the other
hand, where there are no beggars and no paupers,
old clothes will go into the rag-bag at an earlier
stage of their existence, and make their enti'ance
sooner into the paper mill. No argument, there-
fore, can be drawn from this fact respecting the
superior ])hysical condition of the population of the
United States, whatever it may prove respecting
their intellectual superiority over the masses of the
old country.

It appears, likewise, that whereas the annual
average quantity of paper made during the five
years 1830-1834, prior to the reduction of the
duty from 3d. to l^d. the pound, was upwards of
seventy millions of pounds ; the average annual
consumption for the five years 1849-53 was one
hundred and fifty-seven millions, or more than
double its ainount before the reduction of duty.
The consumption of the year 1853 was more than
one hundred and seventy-seven millions of pounds,
showing- an increase, in one year, of about twentj'-
three millions of pounds, or nearly eleven thousand
tons. The total quantity of materials employed in
the manufacture of paper is estimated at from one
hundred and ten to one hundred and twenty thou-
sand tons, or about a ton and a half of material to
a ton of paper. The increase of paper made in
1853, over that of the average of five years pre-
ceding, would require more than sixteen thousand
tons of material. If this were all made from flax
in the state of fibre, without the intervening pro-
cesses of conversion into linen, and then into rags,
sixty-four thousand acres of land would be required
for its production. The average annual increase
of the flax consumed by our flax-spinning mills is
the growth of eighty-three thousand acres, as we
have stated in a former article. Comparing this
with the hiatus in the supply, caused by the
Russian war, we find the flax-spinners estimating
the total importation from Russia at fifty thousand
tons per annum, of which we know that they ex-
pect about one-half to find its way hither, by some
circuitous channel, but considerably enhanced in
price. There will still be a deficiency of the growth
of one hundred thousand acres. It may, and pro-
bably will, be supplied by other fibrous materials
than flax, from India and other countries, though
not very rapidly. Whether those materials shall
require to be collected or cultivated, each must be
a work of time.

Before the cloud appeared in the east, the
scarcity of paper-making materials was attracting
attention, and our botanists were looking in all

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directions, within our own islands, for new fibrous
materials. Patents have been taken out for making
paper from wood like the wasp. The cultivation
of nettles, mallows, broom, furze, and a variety of
other things, has been recommended. If the weeds
of our waysides, and hedges, and wastes, can be
converted into paper, by all means, we should say,
let them be collected, and thus the double object
gained of keeping down weeds and making thera a
source of profit; but if fibrous materials must be

cultivated, it will be better to cultivate flax instead
of weeds. We know the former will answer the
purpose: the utility of the latter has yet to be
proved. As to nettles, their stings are a formid-
able objection, if there were no other. The scutch-
ing of flax is no pleasant employment ; but who
would work at the scutching of nettles ? For flax
there must be an extensive demand, were the war
brought to a close to-morrow; and with this we
take leave of the subject for the present.

THE SHOW OF HORSES AT LINCOLN,

We recur to the show of horses with the utmost
attention and zealous interest : the subject is replete
with importance to all classes — to the breeders, as
affording them encouragement to exhibit specimens
of excellence for which this country has been so long
celebrated, and from which they may expect to raise
a progeny still more perfect ; to the purchasers, in
whose employment these valuable creatures are con-
ducive to emolument and pleasure ; to the nation, as
an impetus to the production of those noble animals
which are destined to bear our brave soldiers in the
battle-field. The increase in the demand for horses
which has taken place during the last few years, has
very necessarily enhanced their value, and ensured a
m.arket for all kinds posscssiug those cjualifications
which render them in reality usefid. This will prove
a powerful stimulus to breeders, by inducing them
to rear those which are in request ; and a great effort
in a meeting of this nature should be, to present
models. On this point the Royal Agricultural So-
ciety of England have it in their power to confer in-
estimable advantages, by offering prizes for compe-
tition calculated to attract horses of the most valua-
ble description. It must be held in remembrance
that the country exhibitions of this society have only
been recently introduced, comparatively with the
shows in London, prior to the festive season of
Christmas, of the Smithfield Club, where fat cattle,
sheep, pigs, roots, grain, and implements form the
principal features — where horses form no part of the
category. At the time when these summer meetings
were established in the rural districts, it was gene-
rally anticipated that breeding horses for aclive ser-
vice would be an unprofitable speculation, and in-
deed a useless venture, in consequence of the nume-
rous railways which had been formed or were in
course of formation: it was supposed these would
so thoroughly supersede the use of horses for travel-
ling, that a very limited demand would exist. Thus
the attention of the Society was diverted from the
subject, and the prizes offered were mostly for horses
adapted to agricultural purposes. The few which

were given for the higher classes were insignificant
both with respect to number and amount ; conse-
quently failing to attract horses of pretension, with
other causes, which we will notice as we proceed,
the exhibitions have fallen into bad odour with many
proprietors of superior animals. Affairs have now
assumed a very different aspect : the use of horses
has been augmented through the increase of railway
travelHng ; there is a great demand for exportation ;
and the prosperous condition of the country enables
many persons to keep horses for pleasure who were
unable to do so previously. War has, unfortunately,
become imperative, and horses ai'e in requisition for
the troops. These circumstances cannot fail to in-
duce the Royal Agricultural Society to take up the
subject with the zeal it demands. The recent meet-
ing of the Driffield Agricultural Society affords assu-
rance of the success which would not fail to attend
well-concerted measures. Although the prizes indi-
vidually were small, they were numerous ; in fact
they extended to almost every description of horse,
from the hunter, hack, carriage-horse, to the ladies',
we may say childreus' pony, consisting of sixteen
classes and one hundred and fifty-two competitors,
exclusive of five classes adapted to agricultural pur-
poses. Yorkshire, it may be urged, is the land of
the horse ; and a meeting held in that county would
inevitably be patronized by breeders. Lincolnshire
is so nearly connected by proximity and similar occu-
pations, that no doubt can exist that it would have
commanded an equal share of popularity if similar
attractions had been offered.

At the Lincoln exhibition the premiums offered
by the Royal Agricultural Society for cattle amounted
to twenty- three : for horses there were only six, and
those were confined to animals suited to agricultural
purposes, with the exception of one prize to roadster-
stallions, and the special premiums given by the
Mayor of the City.- There are as many varieties of
horses as there are of cattle, and each variety is
worthy of attention. The objects to be attained by
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205

priucipally competition, which engenders improve-
ment, the consequent fame attached to those breeds
which are considered entitled to prizes, and the pre-
cepts afforded to all classes of agriculturists, espe-
cially to young beginners. The study of domestic
animals, with their various points of excellence
liighly developed, is a worthy and interesting thesis;
and in this category the horse is unrivalled. The
kind of stock which a su-e begets is a subject of vast
importance to breeders, and should form a portion
of the estimate whereby iiis merits are determined :
the exhibition of his progeny for this purpose be-
comes a subject for consideration.

Under any circumstances it is highly improbable
that thorough-bred stallions of great fame for racing
purposes would ever be attracted to the show-yards
of agricultural societies ; neither is it at all desirable
they should. The rate .at which their services are
obtained is too high for breeders of less costly stock,
and many of them are not calculated to become the
sires of those useful animals which it is the object
of the farmer to breed. It is no libel on Bay Mid-
dleton to say that if he were shown at an agricul-
tural meeting he would not have a prize aw"arded to
him — his celebrity as a sire of racing stock being so
thoroughly established; but he possesses defects
which are transmitted to his progeny, and which
would be fatal to the value of a hunter or a hack.
The kmd of horses which are adapted to produce
first-rate hunters, hacks, and also carriage-horses of
the greatest value, from a certain description of
mares, are thorough-bred ones, with power, sym-
metry, action, temper, and constitution — neither
the most speedy on the turf, nor the worthless weeds.
Owners of these horses very commonly entertain a
prejudice against offering them for competition.
Two ostensible reasons may be adduced for tliis :
the one already mentioned, namely, the inadequacy
of the amount, and want of confidence in the opi-
nion of the judges. It is an unpleasant office to
impugn the decisions of gentlemen who undertake
such onerous duties, especially in cases wherein
matters of opinion, not positive facts, are involved.
But it is not transgressing the bounds of the most
scrupulous courtesy to observe, that it is scarcely
possible to select competent judges of the higher
breeds of horses, who are equally capable of forming
opmions on the merits of cart-horses. A man who
is to judge of the capabilities of horses calculated to
become the sires of hunters, must have acquired
great experience in the breeding department, and he
must likewise be in the constant habit of riding to
liounds, or he can never become acquainted with
those points and qualifications which are essential in
a hunter intended to carry a hard rider.

Knowledge of pedigree, and of hereditary or family
propensities, is another very important item in the

selection of sires. Those which are descended from
horses whose stock has been distinguished in the
hunting-field, are especially worthy of approbation,
and greatly to be preferred to those which have
merely gained notoriety for speed on the race-course.
The action which they transmit to their progeny
may be regarded as one of the first causes of supe-
riority. In connection with that great accomplish-
ment the judges have a far better opportunity of
deciding than the public, inasmuch as the former see
each horse in motion during their inspection, while
the latter only see them in their stalls or boxes.
When deciding on the merits of a number of horses,
the superior qualifications and defects of each must
be critically compared, and estimated in proportion
to tlieir individual importance ; and there are some
fatal imperfections, which the most experienced eye
cannot detect, imless the horse is led out for inspec-
tion. It is highly amusing to hsten to the ludi-
crous opinions expressed by spectators, many of
whom fancy themselves judges. There are many
qualities and defects which the horse possesses, that
are hidden to the eye ; they can only be discovered
by actual trials, which judges of stock have no means
of putting to the test. It is the reluctance which
owners of really good and valuable horses entertain
against these impediments which prevents them from
exhibiting their horses : the difficulties are by no
means insurmountable, and, when once removed, there
is no doubt the show of horses at future meetings
will assume that high character of importance to
whieh it is so justly entitled. The judges should be
considered as holding the position of confidential
friends, who kindly counsel the inexperienced which
horses and mares are the most valuable in their re-
spective kinds for the purposes of breeding; and, con-
cerning the young stock, that which is the most pro-
mising to purchase.

We maintain that the breeder who is desirous to
rear horses of the highest value, either as hunters or
hacks, or indeed for any other purpose under the
saddle, must have recourse to thorough-bred sires.
And here it may be necessary to introduce a few brief
remarks explanatory of the term. It implies a class of
our domestic animals, whether it be of horses, cattle,
sheep, or pigs, which is derived through a long race of
ancestors, !;each of which has been selected with the
utmost care for those superior qualifications which
render them most useful and valuable. The tho-
rough-bred horse undergoes the most severe proba-
tion in training, and in racing, where his powers of
endui'ance, constitutional stamina, and soundness
are unequivocally tested. It is the breeder's fault
if he selects an animal for the purpose of pro-
creation, which has proved himself defective in the
most important qualities. The thorough-bred horse
can sustain a greater share of labour and hardships

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than any other of the species. We sometimes see,
but with regret, the worn-out racer doiug duty in a
London cab ; or sustaining the abuse, and performing
the drudgery of a village butcher's hack ; sometimes
carrying his inconsiderate master on the road, or
his still more inconsiderate boy, who too frequently
indulges in a gallop against any one who will accept
liis challenge ; at other times fastened to the gate,
and shivering in the cold, while his master is closing
a bargain at the farmer's hearth : after his day's work
is over, the cold, bleak common is his resting-place.
In this pitiable condition he bears the hardships of
his fate with courage, and withstands the variable
effects of the elements to an extent far beyond what
the mongrel can endure. The proposition made by
Mr. Spooner to breed from three-parts-bred sires
capable of carrying sixteen stone with the fleetest
hounds, as a means of regenerating our horses, was
noticed in these columns at the time : it may fur-
ther be observed, there is not such an animal in
existence. No horse, unless he be much more highly
bred than that which Mr. Spooner describes, can
live with hounds when running. There is another
impediment in all cases where horses are used for
breeding which are not thorough-bred— it is im-
possible to discover wii;h accuracy worthy of de-
pendence how such horses are descended ; and to
grovel on in the dark, in that respect, is a chance
to which an experienced breeder of valuable stock
would be reluctant to expose himself. The risk in
this respect is often conspicuous with mares ; and it
is folly to render the probability of incestuous breed-
ing doubly hazardous. It is universally understood
by all practical and observant breeders that the male
must be of pure descent if an approach to perfection
is anticipated. Would His Grace the Duke of Rich-
mond seek to improve his beautiful flock of South-
down sheep by the introduction of rams from the
Welsh mountains ? or would the late Earl Ducie
have brought his herd of short-horns to that per-
fection at which they had arrived when they were
sold, if the common bulls of the county of
Gloucester had been substituted for the highly-bred
short-horn ? The mountain sheep and the common
bulls more nearly represent the primitive animals of
uncultivated nature than do the southdowns and
the short-horns ; and the mongrel-bred horse is in a
similar position. It may be said that for many pur-
poses more bone and power is required than are ge-
nerally found in thorough-bred horses. This can
only be admitted to a limited extent. If we were to
select the most powerful of that class, very few, if
any, of inferior breed could be found to equal them
for any kind of labour in which the combination of
strength and activity is required. It is obvious
that thorough-bred horses endowed with those
powers cannot be brought into use for ordinary oc-

cupations, in consequence of their value for other
purposes ; but they are the models to be taken as
standards, and the nearer other classes of horses re-
present them, the nearer will they arrive at per-
fection, and the more serviceable and valuable will
they be. Thorough-bred mares cannot be brought
into general use to supply the country with their
stock, because we do not possess a sufficient num-
ber of those which are endowed with the necessary
qualifications ; and they are mostly engaged in the
costly service of breeding for the turf. To employ
light, weedy, powerless animals is folly in the ex-
treme. The recommendation of Mr. Spooner that
the Royal Agricultural Society should take mea-
sures with Government for the encouragement of
breeding horses for cavalry purposes, is a most
laudable intention; but at the present regulation
prices, farmers will not be inclined to devote atten-
tion to the subject. Premiums may be offered for
breeding horses of a certain description; and if those
premiums are sufficiently valuable, they will no
doubt induce farmers to breed horses with a
view of gaining them ; but if those horses are cal-
culated for the cavalry, they will be stiU more valu-
able for other purposes, and will therefore never
find their way to the regiments. If Government
will make the regulation prices remunerative, the
ranks will soon be filled.

The term roadster is one of such expansive com-
prehension that it might be sulxlivided into four or
five classes with good effect. It may signify a horse
IG or 17 hands high, fit to draw a carriage, brougham,
or any vehicle; and for pleasure or business
it may signify the powerful, active, beautiful cob,
not exceeding 14 h. 2 in., for which a portly gen-
tleman of heavy weight would sign a blank check
upon his banker, to be filled up at the discretion of
the fortunate breeder ; it may signify the speedy
hack, nearly or quite thorough-bred, adapted to a
light weight ; it may signify the lady's graceful
palfrey, or even the child's pet pony — all of which
are so dissimilar in their characters, that the horse
Avhich is calculated to be the sire of one kind cannot
be expected to fulfil the same duty in the production
of the other, however extensive the diversity of
mares. The horses exhibited on this occasion were
principally calculated to breed carriage-horses, and
for that purpose there were some fair specimens.

It is impossible too often to reiterate the praises
which are due to Mr. Tweed, the worthy mayor of
Lincoln, and his friends, for having rescued the
meeting which took place in their city from the im-
putation it would otherwise have fallen under, of not
offering any premiums for hunters — a class of horses
for which the immediate neighbourhood is cele-
brated. Surrounded as the city is by the most
fashionable and influential hunts in England, it

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE-

SOT

would have been a reflection, truly, had the sporting
stranger visited the place, and returned home with-
out some memento that he had been in the land
where fox-hunting flourishes, where the farmers par-
ticipate extensively in the amusement, and where
many of our first-class horses are bred. Mr. Tweed
has unquestionably taken a step in the right direc-
tion, and shown to the Royal Agricultural Society
that premiums of sufHcient value will attract horses
calculated to produce hunters, and also valuable youiig
stock adapted for the chase.

The vicinity of Lincoln could have supplied horses
of higher reputation than those which were entered,
of which there were nine, and Loutherbourg was the
successful candidate. It is an ungracious task, under
any circumstances, to differ from the opinions which
gentlemen form who undertake the onerous duties of
deciding upon the merits of animals ; and where it is
matter of opinion, we should in most cases avoid any
dissentientremarks. On this occasion they are matters
of fact, andso materially connected with the important
subject of breeding horses, that we cannot shrink from
the public duty. Upon examining the pedigree of
Loutherbourg, it will be found that he combines
none of that blood so highly prized and distinguished
for hunting purposes — such as the Sir Oliver,
Tyledener, Orville, Master Henry, Muley, Eelzoni,
and some others. He is by Mameluke — a very in-
different stock-getter ; dam by Smolensko — a sort
never famed for endurance, stoutness of constitution,
or substance ; but the reverse. Mameluke was by

Partisan, notorious for the badness of his fore legs,
and which his stock generally inherited. With lively
reminiscences of the Smolensko and Partisan de-
fects, he must be a sanguine man who can expect to
breed hunters impressed with that stamp of cha-
racter which will command high prices, from such
ancestors. With hereditary bad fore-legs, very nar-
row hips, and exceedingly light thighs, such an
animal is certain to transmit some, if not all, liis im-
perfections to his progeny. Tt is breeding from such
stallions as these which occasions loss to the breeder,
fills our fairs with rubbish, and people's heads with
the idea that our horses have deteriorated When
such animals are selected for the purpose of pro-
creation, it creates no surprise that suggestions
should be offered of introducing some other class of
horse supposed to be more free from those defects —
possessing substance with well-formed legs ; but
these desiderata will seldom be found in mongrels,
and, where found, will not be transmitted to their
progeny. Why thorough-bred horses free from the
most important defects should be passed over, it is
difficult to determine.

The prize for three-years -old hunting geldings or
fillies could not occasion vast trouble to the judges.
It was awarded to a brown gelding by Robinson,
and, as we were informed, was out of a half-sister to
Lottery, the steeple-chase horse, whom he very
greatly represented both in shape and colour.

Cecii,.

TIPTREE HALL FARM

One of our Essayists has told us with much
humour how the edge was taken off the critic's
appetite. He had fallen foul of a translation of one
of the ancient poets, which he found on the coun-
ter of a considerable tradesman. He was " really
grieved to see so much money wasted in such a
way." He was " sorry a man of so much repute
should give his countenance to such a series of
egregious blunders." He was but the yet more
acute bookseller at once interrupted him : " They
were just going to dinner — plain, humble fare
enough ; but Mrs. Tonson would be too happy to
see the gentleman, if he would only step in." And
he did step in. The entertainment was far beyond
the modest promise given of it ; and, thus gra-
dually worked on, the censor ultimately declared,
with his mouth full, " that the poem was com-
mendable, and the pudding was excellent."

Surely our friend Mr. Mechi has read this story
with advantage. Can any one be cruel enough
to play the critic after partaking of " the plain,

homely fare" he sits down to at Tiptree ? Can any
caustic observer dare to talk of " capital wasted"
when he sees such signs of prosperity before him ?
Would any one grieve to give his countenance to
any such " series of egregious blunders" when he
experiences what pleasant meetings they result in ?
Common gratitude, self enjoyment, at once forbid
it. We have walked from the counter to the par-
lour, and, but arrived here, we declare, with all the
authority of a mouthful, that there " the farming is
commendable, and the pudding is excellent."

It is, indeed, a hard task to have to criticise Mr.
Mechi. The genuine hospitality of the man, his
no less characteristic good humour, and the ex-
quisite tact and taste with which he manages his
company, all demand our best consideration. The
owner of Tiptree, however, is essentially a public
man. There is not an experiment he makes, not a
shilling he lays out here, but he courts, or rather
demands, the expression of public opinion upon it.
He openly announces himself aa an example for

208

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

others. He is a new edition of the ancient
masters, demonstrating with copious notes where
they were wrong, and where he is right. Like
Abernethy, everybody must read his book : he
spreads it open before them for that sole purpose.
If they do so, and only follow his advice, they v/ill
all become like himself, hale, heart}^ prosperous
men : if they do not, they can but continue the
valetudinarians he has so long had to deal with.

It is curious, though, to observe how he essays to
bring these recipes into practice. He well nigh shuns
the testimony of those who, after all, it is must use
them. Year by year, and we see yet less still of
the practical man. He is gone, and with him the
balance-sheet. No such indecorous persons or
proceedings as these now interrupt the triumphs at
Tiptree. It is science, and professors, and frater-
nity, and foreigners that now deliberately pronounce
Tiptree Hall Farm to be the best farm in the world.
It is gentlemen with their mouths full, who, as one
speaker dared to say on Wednesday, declare, on the
strength of" not knowing wheat from barley," that
liquid manure is astonishing in its effects, and that
draining, in all sorts of ways, is a most remunera-
tive recreation.

The world, however, knows all this already. It
would be rather odd if it did not. Independently
of what Mr. Mechi may have to say for himself,
lie is very well supported. The plan of showing
the farm on a show day may not even yet, though,
be known to all our readers, and so we make no
apology for even enlarging a little farther upon
it. Mr, Mechi himself appropriately enough leads
the way ; as he himself remarks, " they would never
get on if he didn't." Occasionally he halts here
and there, to explain what wonders have been
done, and how he did them. He has of course a
very willing and sympathetic audience, though he
treats them very like Nicholas Nickleby's brother
strollers did the same gentle public on something
of a similar occasion. A London manager was
discovered in the house, and everybody straight-
way did everything to the London manager.
The lover, instead of warbling his pastoral
to his lady fair, wafted it direct to the London
manager. The comic countryman, in place of
telling his best story to his admiring comrades,
gave it word for word to the London manager ;
while the heroine of the play died outright with her
ej'e still fixed on the London manager ! So it is
with Mr. Mechi. He has his London manager in
the recognized authority of a contemporary. To
this gentleman it is Mr. Mechi, in all arcadian
iimocence, warbles forth his lo triumphe. For this
visitor he more especially rattles out his best joke —
in his favourite character of the comic countryman ;
and with an eye still steadily fixed on him, does he

bring down the curtain on the hero, or the Martyr
of Tiptree Heath. The gentle public catch what
they can of the interesting plot; while continued
cries for Mr. Somebody proclaim how much of the
success depends upon the London manager.

In a word, there never was anything more systema-
tically puffed. On this occasion there was not only
one gentleman, note-book in hand, to write it up,
but another as well prepared to speak it up. Mr.
Mechi's object may be a good one — Mr. Mechi
may have spent large sums in at least attempting
to advance the practice of agriculture — and Mr.
Mechi is a hospitable energetic man. Still, to
prove all this good intent, it must be tried in some-
thing of a ditTerent fashion. Let Mr. Mechi have
courage enough to hear his failings told him by
those v,'ho are best qualified to do so, and let him
be content to take his meed of praise from the same
authority, instead of sinking his proceedings into
an advertisement as palpable as it is partial. He
is reviev/ed now by the Yankee Colonel of Militia,
who, whether his men obeyed him or not — went
right or v/ent wrong — never had but one comment
to oiFer — that it v/as " done liansiim !"

The English farmer is now all but ignored at
Tiptree. His incessant calls for proof — the gua-
rantee that he required for every new discovery he
was told to adopt, rendered his interference any-
thing but desirable. His place has been supplied
from a more distant quarter; and Scotchmen and
Scotch farming had, after the worthy host's own
sayings and doings, the rest of the day nearly all
to themselves. Mr. Caird, already somewhat no-
torious for what he has done in this way, was more
energetic tha.n ever on the wonders of the north ;
and Mr. Caird, and Mr. Kennedy, and Mr. Telfer,
and Myre Mill and Ayrshire, swim pleasantly
enough on the top of that stream which flows
over Tiptree Farm. One of the feats duly
proclaimed by Mr, Caird was the growth
per annum of tvv^enty-five tons of dried hay on a
Scotch acre of land. A local report says this was
received with cries of " Oh ! oh ! and laughter ;"
while one of our own contemporaries, the Gar-
deners' Chronicle, adds — " It was not believed in
consequence of being too abruptly announced."
There are many things one has heard of, at Tiptree,
which have been, perhaps, a httle "too abruptly
announced."

The farm itself never looked better than it did
on Wednesday, the wheat and oat-crops being
particularly good, and the management of the land
and stock more imiform and judicious than has
yet appeared. We are quite willing to admit that
Mr. Mechi has done much for Tiptree; what
he may have accomplished, however, has
little real bearing, so fai*, upon practical

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

209

agricultui'e. In place of slighting and taunting
the English agriculturist on all occasions, our
Professor has much still to learn from him. It is
this "manner" we have to quarrel with. It is this
brief authority his over-eager friends would make
of him that one has to guard against — the " done
hansum" verdict that would have ruined every

farmer in England had he only relied on it. We
thank Mr. Mechi for his hospitality; we appreciate
his energy j but we deny his right to a position he
is so little qualified to claim. None have or con-
tinue to speak with more self-confidence, while
none have greater errors to confess, or more need
to learn.

ON THE ADULTERATION OF MANURES.

It is not many weeks since we urged the im-
portance of applying the sewage of towns as a ma-
nure in the liquid form, by means of the steam
engine and underground irrigation. We urged it on
two grounds. The first was, the hopelessness of its
economical conversion to the solid form, and the
absurdity of making this conversion, if it is again
to be rendered liquid for use with the water drill.
The second was, that, if it were applied in its ori-
ginal state, the farmer would escape the risk of
falling into bad hands among the manure dealers.
On the latter point, we quoted the statements of
Professor Johnston, as to the adulteration of ma-
nures. On both, we have now the sanction of
another eminent agricultural chemist — Professor
Way. To begin with the diflSculties attending the
conversion of sewage to the solid form. On this
head we remarked, that deodorising was one thing,
and conversion into manure another : what says
Professor Way to this ? In a recent lecture before
the Royal Agricultural Society, on peat charcoal, he
stated that, besides the noxious gases engendered
during the putrefaction of animal substances, each
substance possesses a peculiar odour, strongly
perceptible to the senses, in many cases almost in-
exhaustible in quantity, and yet inappreciable by
weight. He enumerated the list of deodorisers —
such as the chlorides of lime and zinc, sulphate of
iron for decomposition of sulphuretted hydrogen,
and sulphate of lime, by which ammoniacal atmo-
spheres are converted into sulphate of ammonia
and carbonate of lime. Having shown the action
of these substances, he proceeded to consider that
of charcoal as a deodoriser, pointing out the errors
which have arisen from \vant of knowledge of its
efiFects on ammonia. He shewed that fresh burned
charcoal will absorb ammonia in its pores ; but, so
far from having it in its power to extract it from a
liquid, it permits gaseous matters which it has ab-
sorbed to be expelled by water. He considered
peat charcoal not availaljle, of itself, as a manure.
It had been long before the public as such, and
had not advanced in market value, as it would
have done had its application proved successful as

a vehicle for sewage. It will take up a large pro-
portion of water — 50 to 60 per cent. — and this
gives a fallacious appearance of a dry state, to ma-
nures with which it has been mixed as a water-
carrier. Peat charcoal, then, is neither valuable as
a manure of itself, nor has it the power of sepa,-
rating manure from sewage ; it only renders sew-
age portable. Of Mr. Stotherd's process for
reducing sewage matter, by a dovible action of
purification, into clear water and an inodorous pre-
cipitate, Pi-ofessor Way observed that, though ad-
miralily adapted for sanitary purposes, it has little
agricultural importance, as all the most valuable
portions remain in solution, and are carried off in
the clear water, while the precipitate is compara-
tively an inert mass. Deodorising, therefore, as
we remarked on a former occasion to which we have
alluded, is one thing, and conversion into manure
another. On the matter of adulteration of guano.
Professor Johnston flogged the fraudulent manure-
dealers pretty severely ; but Professor Y/ay, in a
second lecture, literally flayed them. This adultera-
tion, he said, had this year reached a height which
it had never attained before. He could speak con-
fidently on this point, from the number of analyses
he had been called upon to make. The process of
adulteration had been accelerated by various
causes. In the first place, there was the limited
supply from Peru, which obliged the importers to
refuse orders, and caused guano to be selling, in
many parts of the country, for £12 and £14 the
ton. Secondly, there v/as a falling off in the sup-
ply of materials for making superphosphate of hme,
the manure next in importance to guano, and the
first to which the farmer resorts as a substitute ;
bones, likewise, have become scarce in the market ;
guanos of the phosphate kind, which have always
been valuable to the maker of superphosphates, have
almost disappeared ; and coprolites, or fossil phos-
pholic nodules, which reallyform our natural source
of phosphoric acid, have so fallen ofF, that their
price has almost doubled. " Here then," said Pro-
fessor Way, " was a glorious opportunity of making
money, which the dealers in adulterated manure

210

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

were not likely to let slip— farriiers rushing into the
market, only too glad to get supplies of manure, and
too many of them not over careful, if the truth must
be told, whether it were good or bad ; and, on the
other hand, the nefarious dealer, not even driven to
the necessity of adopting a low price to obtain a
sale, but revelling in a ready market and enormous
profits. In this way, many a ton of good guano
becomes three or four of a manufactured article."
Professor Way then entered into a description of
the raw materials used by dealers in adulterated
guano. Gypsum is the favourite, particularly that
produced artificially in several manufacturing pro-
cesses, because it is finely divided, does not require
crushing, mixes readily with the guano, and is not
so liable to detection as fragments of the rock,
which may have been imperfectly ground. It has
other advantages— it burns white, and, even when
perfectly dry, gives oflF water, and so loses weight
at a red heat. As good guano burns white when
heated sufficiently long, and loses weight also, the
farmer who tried his gypsumized guano by this
test, would most hkely be deceived into the belief
that he Ijought the genuine stuff. Common salt
and sulphate of soda are other adulterating ingre-
dients. The former burns white, but does not
lose weight; the latter, unfortunately, possesses
some advantages to recommend it. Coprohtes
also, finely powdered, form another source of
adulteration. They are particularly adapted to the
conscientious adulterator; because, being phos-
phates, he may flatter himself he is not doing the
farmer any great harm by giving them for guano.
Putting out of the question, however, the fact that
they are comparatively inert till heated with sul-
phuric acid, they are only half the price of guano,
and adulteration is adulteration, as Professor Way
observes, all the world over. The increasing prices
of coprolites are acting as a bar to their use, and, as
they burn red, have the additional advantage of
being liable to detection. The thoroughgoing ma-
nufacturer, however, scouts all these refinements,
and goes in a straightforward way to the sand and
the loam pit. Sand does not answer the purpose
unless very fine. A loam, or clay, so mixed with
sand that it will dry and work well, is v/hat is
wanted. There was, a few years ago, a regular
factory near Bow Common, with drying kilns,
furnaces, and grinding mills, in full work for the
special use of the manufacturers of guano. There
loam or clay might be had of every shade of colour.

to suit the wants of the adulterator, and the taste
of the purchaser who scouted the assistance of the
chemist, and rehed on empyrical characters for de-
termining the quality of his guano. If this manu-
factory was not still at work, others are ; for Profes-
sor Way finds abundance of loam in the guano
brought to him for analysis, in the ordinary way of
business, and without any solicitation on his part.
In support of these statements, we are furnished
with analyses of three groups of guano, consisting
of six samples each. The first group consisted of
genuine Peruvian guano, as a standard of com-
parison ; the second, of guanos which had been
adulterated with gypsum alone ; and the third, of
those to which sand or loam had been added as
well as gypsum. The results will be best exhibited
in the following table, in which we have given the
average of each group : —

Moisture

Sand

Gypsum

Organic matter and "i
salts of ammonia j

Phosphates of lime"i
and magnesia • • • j

Nitrogen

equal to
Ammonia • . . .

Group 1.

Genuine
Peruvian,

Group 2.

Adulterated

witli

Gypsum.

Group 3.
Adulterated

with
Gypsum &

Sand.

14.89
1.59

10.55

2 04

36.30

9.83
28 51
20.61

51.42

23.89

14.34

30.20

20.93

.73

13.90

6.86

3.04

16.76

8.82

3.69

One of the samples in group 3 was not worth
more than £2 per ton at the highest estimate,
" though, no doubt, if the truth could be got at,
it had been bought as a great bargain at £11."
Such are the penalties which farmers pay for buy-
ing cheap guano — for relying on their own judgment
in such matters, instead of on chemical analysis,
and for being deficient in that amount of chemical
knowledge which would enable them to compound
artificial manures for themselves. Professor Way
has withheld names, but says that each case can be
authenticated if necessary. Farmers should have
no such delicacy. Let them have whatever guano
they purchase analyzed, and let them pubUsh the
analysis and the name of the vendor. Nothing
checks imposture so much as the dread of ex-
posure.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

211

FARM BUILDINGS.

" Property lias its duties as well as its rights." This
is a principle so firmly impressed upon every reflective
mind , that a person must be possessed of no small degree
of self-confidence, or else be destitute of the higher and
nobler feelings of our nature, who will venture to deny
its truth. But irrespective of the claim which thus
exists, we may presume that the agriculturist who enters
into a treaty with a landowner for the occupation of his
estate, duly agrees that these duties shall be fully per-
formed, so far as he is personally interested. For in-
stance, the land would be of little use to him, destitute
of that accommodation for his residence, the proper care
and management of his stock, and for the preparation
of his crops for market, which constitutes the home-
stead of the farm ; and in proportion as this is suitable
and convenient, will the value of the land be increased,
and consequently worth a higher rental. Thus " the
performance of a duty brings its own reward ;" it is
therefore an impartial argument which inforces this duty,
for self-interest prompts to its performance.

It is very evident to every one acquainted with the
tillage of the soil, that the farm buildings requisite must
depend upon the character and quality of the soil, the
system of agriculture adopted, and the stock kept on
the land. No plan therefore can be of general applica-
tion ; but there are certain principles which invariably
hold good ; and it is only by modifying and applying
them, that a homestead can be erected so as to be con-
venient and useful in the highest degree. The extent of
the occupation must necessarily influence the buildings
required ; and here, as in most points of agricultural
economy, the cost per acre is in higher proportion as
the farm becomes of smaller extent. The course of
farming pursued also influences the accommodation re-
quired. The same farming which under one system
maintained a certain number of sheep and cattle, and
required the labour of so many horses, might, by adopt.
ing a quicker course of croppinff, combined with the
growth of green crops, and their consumption in stalls,
&c., support three times the quantity of stock, and in-
crease the demand for horse-labour 50 per cent. It is
therefore of the greatest importance for the interest of
the landlord, that he should be guided by a discreet and
competent ailviser, in the erection of buildings for a
farm. The course adopted by one tenant might be un-
suited to the character and quality of the land, and con-
sequently would not be adopted by his successors ; and
thus accommodation might be provided which is not
only unnecessary, but an incumbrance. Inconsequence
of not being used, they soon get out of repair ; and as the
tenant is not willing to be at any expense for that which
is of no use to him, the dilapidations increase. Thus
unnecessary buildings are annoying to the landlord, be-
cause they do not bring him any i-eturn for his outlay in
their erection ; whilst from the tenant allowing them to

go out of repair, they eventually cost him a considerable
sum of money, in consequence of their dilapidated con-
dition. Hence great judgment is necessary to draw the
line between that which is necessary and that which is
not required, so that the tenant shall have every neces-
sary accommodation, but DO superfluous buildings. The
agent therefore holds a responsible position ; for whilst
on the one hand he has duly to consider the require-
ments of the tenant according to the system of farming
he is going to pursue, he must on the other hand protect
the interest of the landlord by approving a plan which
will be oi permanent utllily to the property.

The inquiry may arise as to who is the right party to
make the outlay. Undoubtedly the landlord should do
it ; and having done so, let the tenant pay a per centage
upon the outlay. There are many objections to the
tenant doing these improvements, even if he is re'
imlursed — chiefly because the tenant's capital employed
upon his farm would repay him fuH three times as much
interest, as a landlord would receive for his outlay.
The tenant's time and judgment being given up to the
management of his business, enables him to realize (say)
15 per cent, on his capital employed ; whilst with the
landlord, the outlay is an ordinary investment, for which
he would probably receive 5 per cent. If a tenant builds
he cannot be expected to make such substantial work as
the freeholder would for his own property. If, however,
the tenant agrees to pay his landlord 5 per cent, on the
outlay for a proposed set of farm buildings, it is but
just towards himself that a plan and contract should be
prepared for their mutual approval. The cases will be
very few in which a landlord will not be crippling his
tenant's means, by allowing his capital which should be
expended on the land to be sunk in the erection of farm
buildings. Here again, we have the satisfaction of ob-
serving, that the interests of landlord and tenant "go
hand in hand."

It is a very common practice for the tenant to be re-
quired to draw the materials, because he has horses and
carts at his disposal. Now, this appears very inconsistent.
Thehorses upon his farm are just sufficient to carry out the
regular tillage of the land ; and consequently, if this addi-
tional work has to be done, the ordinary farm labour is
neglected. It would be equally consistent to require
him, because he has a certain number of men in his em-
ploy, to raise the stone required, or to do the excava-
tions, &c. ; for these men have the duties of the farm to
attend to, and the horse labour is required for the same
purpose. The cost for carriage of materials should be
added to the other expenses of the buildings, and let the
tenant pay interest on the amount. The tenant should
be required to keep and leave the premises in proper
repair, and consequently it will be to his interest to give
prompt attention to all dilapidations.

It is the opinion of many persons that the farm-house

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is of secondary importance, compared with the other
buildings, and that an outlay of money for increasing
the comfort of the farmer's dwelling is little else than an
extravagant investment of money. But in this we differ ;
for although we fully advocate the importance of good
and suitable accommodation for the stock of the farm,
yet at the same time we do not overlook the advantages
which result from farms having residences upon them
suited for men of capital. The example of one of our
most enlightened and liberal landowners in the east of
England has proved most clearly the importance of
having respectable residences attached to farms. When
his property came into his hands, the tenantry were
poor, and becoming poorer every year, and their dwel-

lings were in an equally pitiable condition. The course
he adopted was to erect residences suitable for men
of capital, and hence he soon got men of respect-
ability and property for his tenants. A professional
man, or a tradesman, insists upon having a house suited
to his circumstances ; and we conceive it equally due to
the agriculturist that his dwelling should possess those
accommodations and comforts which are admitted to be
necessary for others who have less capital at their dis-
posal. No peculiarity of arrangement is necessary,
differing from other houses of equal i-espectability. The
situation should be healthy and pleasant ; and if with a
commanding view of the farm, it will enable a more con-
stant oversight to be maintained.

EPIDEMICS, TOWN DRAINAGE, AND MANURING THE LAND,

No. V.

Sir, — There is a Cjuestion that has long engaged the
attention of the scientific world, and which should have
formed part of No., 3, but it was inadvertently over-
looked ; and that is, what is termed oxone. This sub-
stance, supposed to be generated in the atmosphere, is
eonsidered by Delarue and Berzelius to be an " allo-
tropic modification" of oxygen, occasioned either by
electricity or by the " catalytic action " of certain sub-
stances ; and Scoubein considers it as a higher stage of
the exidation of hydrogen ; and to detect the extent to
which it pervades the atmosphere, an association has
been formed in the medical vv'orld (one of the observers
residing within a few miles of this place), the amount
being indicated by the shades of blue which is imparted
to a piece of test-paper shut up in a box. Some months
since, when in this gentleman's dispensary, I suggested
to him whether this " oxidation of hydrogen " was not
nitric acid ; when be moistened a bit of the_ paper, ex-
posed it to the fumes of nitric acid, and immediately
produced a deep blue tint !

Removal of error being the first step towards eliciting
truth, I am induced to refer to another subject of much
greater importance to the agriculturist, on whom must
ultimately devolve the solution, or at least the investiga-
tion, of all subjects in connection with natural phi-
losophy. That evapor?ition constitutes the life-springs
of vegetation will readily be admitted ; and those who
take the trouble to read my papers, can be no strangers
to the fact that evaporation has hitherto been identified
with "heal," on which principle is based the hy-
grometer; and therefore temperature and evaporation
shoul* nearly keep pace with each other. To test this
and other no less important questions, in 1845 I
mounted a pair of ordinary grocer's scales, and put into
each of them about a quart of water : one I connected
with the earth electrically, the other insulated from it ;
and the beam of these scales being suspended to the end
of a second beam, counterpoised by weights, I had no
difficulty in determining the relative evaporating in-

fluence of the atmosphere and the earth, and the in-
fluence of what is termed heat. The difference in the
two vessels, and the total from both, I register every
morning and evening at 9 o'clock, and the information
for 1853 will be found in the following table; the two
first columns showing the difference or excess of evapo-
ration in the respective vessels, the third that from both.
The reading of the thermometer I have reduced 32 de-
grees, that being our barbarous freezing-point, instead of
0, as the addition of 32 degrees to the temperature of
February, or to that of June, could not fail in creating a
serious error. My rain-gauge is a square box 8 inches
deep, with a sloping bottom of 2 inches and 10 inches
diameter, mounted on a pole above the shed in which I
keep my other apparatus, and into which the rain is
conducted by a small tube ; it was made here, of zinc,
and cost me 2s. 6d. : —

1853.

g-g

d
3 « S

a s

O 3

Rain.

Ounces on

100 square

inches.

Number of
days on
which it
rained.

January . .

280

5370

223

February . .

615

5350

March

375

7060

April ....

805

115

10025

199

May , .

1560

225

19225

122

Juae

440

11895

107

July

505

—

9620

232

August.. ..

490

11285

181

September .

265

8070

172

October . .

140

4695

554

November .

185

34701 11

December. .

250

220

4115 2

5910

805

100680

2033

200

It will be seen, on reference to the above, that in
May, with a temperature of 24 degrees, there was an
evaporation of 19,225 grains; whilst in June, with a
temperature of 30 degrees, it was only 11,895 grains;
although in May there fell 122 ounces of rain compared

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

218

to 107 ia June ; and a comparison of the other results
will afford evidence of the fallacy of the doctrine of heat ;
whilst it is a well-established fyct, that at the North
Pole, and iu Canada, during winter, with the ther-
mometer some 20 degrees below zero, evaporation or the
drying of cloths is as rapid as it is in this country under
the influence of a summer's sun. We are told that the
evaporation of 1853 was less than that of preceding
years; whilst the following results show that the con-
trary is the fact :—

1850.

1851.

1S52.

1853.

100,680

92,140 92,075 92,080

In the above totals of 1850 to 1853, there is, however, a
marked constancy in the figures — a circumstance that
will appear the more striking from the fact of the two
first results having been obtained in London, in the
vicinity of a mass of fires, and the two latter at this
place, on the borders of a forest ; but if reference be
made to the periods from which these results are made
up, a very different fact presents itself. In London, the
evaporating influence of the respective months was
pretty constant, more especially during the summer ;
but it will be seen, that in May of 1853, the evapora-
tion nearly doubled that of April and June, and was
twice that of July ; whilst in 1852, the evaporation of
July was 18,855 grains; and this year the great evapo-
rating mouth was April, namely, 18,550 grains; after
which, in May, to my satisfaction, it suddenly fell to
only 8,765 grains ; and the vegetable kingdom made a
corresponding start, it being an unquestionable fact, so
far as observation will enable me to form an opinion on
such a momentous question, that a high evaporation,
whether with or without rain, is inimical to vegetation;
and the land repays for the labour bestowed
on it, only when the "sweat of the face"

drops to the earth instead of being evaporated by the air,
or when the atmosphere is what is termed close or op-
pressive. We are familiar with the fact that we import
annually from the tropics thousands of tons of sugar
and other substances, that cannot be produced in this
country ; but of the atmospheric conditions which in-
duce such a rapid growth in the vegetable kingdom we
are in the most profound ignorance, although an appa-
ratus in every respect calculated to elicit information on
this momentous question has been before the public
since 1847. To the propagation of error, thousands of
the public money have been expended ; but truth has
not yet obtained the support even of a single influential
advocate.

Few questions in connection with vegetable physiology
have received more attention than the source from which
plants derive their carbon, or nourishment : some have
advocated the root, others the leaves. About six weeks
since, when going through my meadow, an hour or two
after a shower, the bottoms of my trousers got wet
through ; but in traversing a piece of potatoes and
beans, I found these perfectly dry, although on the
cabbage-leaves there were large drops of water as if
suspended to them : and if water be poured on a cab-
bage, it will run off as if thrown on the back of a duck,
whilst it will thoroughly saturate a potato top as it would
a fowl. The cabbage, then, I suspect to be a non-
absorbent of rain or dew, whilst the potato is an absor-
bent— a quality, in all probability, possessed by all
plants " attacked" by the fly and other diseases of the
kind. This property may tend to throw some light on
the " fingers and toes" in turnips, but I have not yet
had time to investigate the subject.

Franklin Coxworthy,

Author of " Electrical Condition."

Maresfield, Sussex , July, 1854.

THE SMOKE NUISANCE

In the second volume of Pax ton's " Magazine of
Botany," pp. 246-8, are six figures, sbowing the passage
of smoke from the chimneys of forcing houses under
various modifications of furnaces. At p. 247, we read,
" In order to do away with smoke entirely, and to ren-
der combustion complete, Mr. Witty, civil engineer,
constructed a peculiar furnace ;" of that a figure is
given. A lively interest was then excited among horti-
culturists, for their own individual object, and the smoke
question was much agitated. Thus in the fifth volume
of the same periodical, there are three articles which
may even now be profitably referred to. See pp. 13, 14,
and 80 ; and again pp. 202, 3 ; from which the following
lines are taken as bearing upon the great measure now
on the eve of being adopted by legal authority : — " A
discovery has been made of a process which, at a very
trifling expense, not only removes smoke, but renders
every particle of the fuliginous matter available to the

production of heat, and to the saving of an immense
quantity of fuel. Thus, by the instrumentality of ajet
of steam, distributed over a black and smoky surface of
even icetted small coal, every portion of smoke became
instantly ignited." These facts were observed on the
spot, and communicated to the writer in the year 1837,
when perhaps the first effective impulse had been given
towards a systematic attempt to remove one of the pro-
ducts of combustion. Pit coal has always been esteemed
one of the greatest treasures of Britain ; but, in com -
mon with other terrene blessings, its comforts are at'
tended with countervailing inconveniences. We feel,
and are daily made sensible of, the black, offensive
nuisance by which our buildings are begrimed and de-
filed ! But here, even at this very point (while admit-
ting the fact), truth, and a serious anxiety for the
health of the community, constrains us to appeal to
chemical science for a faithful answer to the all-impor-

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tant question — " What will he the j>rolahle, if not the
inevitable, consequences that must result from the
co7ubustion of smoke ?"

Smoke from sea and pit coal in general consists mainly
of a vast quantity of carbon, distilled and expelled
from coal by a degree of heat not sufficiently great to
ignite that carbon ; it therefore passes off, combined
with other matters (which need not here be noticed) in
the black column so much complained of. Now, in
order to consume the quantity of vaporized carbon thus
passed into the atmosphere, it would require, in round
numbers, ticlce the quantity of oxygen gas to be
electro -chemically combined with it, and the product
would be carbonic acid — a gas which, according to Pro-
fessor Brande, " is perfectly unresplrable, for on at-
tempting to breathe it in a pure state, the epiglottis is
spasmodically closed, and, no air entering the lungs,
suffocation is the direct consequence. When it is so far
diluted with air as to admit of being received into the
lungs, it then operates as a narcotic poison, and this even
when a candle will burn in the mixture. Assuming the
specific gravity of carbon vapour to be 0'84, and that
of oxygen gas I'll, and that a volume of carbonic acid
consists of one volume of oxygen, and half a volume
of carbon vapour, its specific gravity should be —
1-11 + 0-42 =- 1-53; or

Grains.
50 cubic inches of carbon vapour, weighing 12-7
100 ,, oxygen gas, ,, 34'6

100 cubic inches of carbonic acid should weigh 47'3
It is therefore specifically heavier than atmospheric air,
100 cubic inches of which weigh STOl grains, and must
descend and mix with the air to be respired. Con-
sidering the vast quantity of smoke which pervades the
whole atmospheric volume of London, and of other large
cities and towns, and admitting the possibility of con-
verting the carbon therewith combined to carbonic acid,
does it not become an imperative duty to contemplate
the enormous risk that might be incurred by so degrad-
ing, if not actually poisoning, that vital respirable air,
which, discoloured as it now is (by smohe, yet sustains
the life of above two millions of human beings?

Another great chemical phenomenon must not be
overlooked ; for not only would the conversion of black
smoke into carbonic invisible acid be attended with the
fearful risk above alluded to, but by the abstraction of
oxygen from the air itself, four-fifths of the entire
volume of that air would remain as azote or nitrogen —
a gas equally unresplrable as carbonic acid itself.

Much more might be said, but it is to be hoped
enough has been stated to induce serious reflection, and,
if possible, a pause, even at this critical moment.

Croydon, July 27.

THE LAW OF SETTLEMENT.

No. XL

Prejudice stops tlie way, gentlemen : let reason
have room. But when prejudice does stop the way,
there is little chance of reason getting past ; for with
eyes inaccessible to light, she is blind, and with ears
inaccessible to sound, she is deaf.

I have read of a vast natural cavern in Hungary,
which presents a labyrinth so intricate, that when a
man is once lost in it, it is almost impossible that he
should ever find his way out. I have, too, read of
vast districts of land in Persia, once covered with
grain, which the impolitic rapacity of the govern-
has converted into tracts for half-famished flocks to
wander and graze over.

Li these two facts, I find striking resemblances to
certain prejudices — and prejudices that we find op-
posed to us in our present investigation.

The Preuch writer displayed very good sense
when he classed all prejudice under one head — tme
oj)mio)i sans jufjement.

I am not disposed to quarrel with men because
they cannot discover truth for themselves ; for an
amount of effort has to be put forth in the pursuit of
truth, for which men generally are incompetent, or,
at any rate, disinclined.

But when truth has been discovered, and placed as

conspicuous an object as the Pyramids on the plains
of Egypt, or St. Paul's (whan the designed improve-
ments are effected) from Elect-street, there are men
who will solemnly assure you that they do not per-
ceive it. And such individuals as these, although
they are shown over and over again that there is no
part of the policy of the Law of Settlement and
Removal maintainable, will yet stick to it that it is
necessary for the welfare of the country that it
should be maintained.

Reason has been employed in discovering the
truth with regard to the operation of the law, times
and times. Adam Smith denounced its " impolicy and
injustice." Commissions of enquiry were sent out
again and again, and piles of evidence were accumu-
lated at Somerset House. Mr. Charles BuUer hesi-
tated even upon such a foundation to pronounce
condemnation on the law of settlement : he would
make assurance doubly sure. The result of this
determination was the Committee of 1847 ; a further
enquiry was instituted into the working of that law
on the welfare of all classes of the community, and
the opinions of the Boards of Guardians upon it were
obtained. I have before me the reports that resulted
from the enquiry. The Select Committee of the
House of Commons reported from time to time the

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

215

evidence tliey had heard, aud ultimately agreed in
ophiious embodied iu the following resolutions,
which, however, were not reported to the House.

1. Resohcd — "That the law of settlement aud
removal is generally productive of hardship to the
poor, and injurious to the working classes by im-
peding the free circulation of labour."

2. Resolved — "That it is injurious to the em-
ployers of labour, aud impedes the improvement of
agriculture."

3. Resolved — " That it is injurious to the rate-
payers, by occasioniug expense in litigation and
removal of paupers."

4. Resolved — " That the power of removing des-
titute poor persons from one parish to another in
England aud Wales be abolished."

The first three of these resolutions were passed
unanimously ; aud the majority that passed the fourth
contains representatives of all parties, from the friends
of political progress to the members of the old Tory
school — now nearly extinct.

I shall pass over the statements of the inspectors
themselves, iu order to exhibit the feeling of the
Boards of Guardians upon this subject. A few ex-
tracts will suffice.

The Stowmarket Union resolved — " That in the
opinion of this Board it is expedient that the law of
settlement should be abolished, and any person re-
quiring relief should be provided for, w^herever he
may require assistance."

The Bosmere and Claydou Union resolved — " That
the law of settlement and removal operates injuriously
for the poor, aud that its abolition would be very
desirable ; but that such an alteration would render
necessary a more extensive and equitable distribution
of the burden of maintaining the poor."

The Ipswich Union resolved — "That it is the
opinion of this Board that it is expedient to repeal
the laws relating to the removal and settlement of the
poor, and that the poor be relieved by a general rate
made upon the entire property of the kiugdom."

The Mildenhall Union resolved — " That the law of
settlement, as at present existing, is extremely op-
pressive to the poorer classes, by frequently com-
pelling tlieir removal in old age to a distance from
their families and connections, to spend their
remaining years among strangers.

"Tiiat the said law has always been found preju-
dicial to the interests of ratepayers, from the great
amount of litigation, &c.

" That for the above and other reasons, the Board
of Guardians are of opinion that the law of settlement
should he tolalhj and absolutely abolished.

" That in lieu thereof, some means should be devised
for equaliziiic) the tax for the relief of the poor, by
an improved and uniform system of rating through
every union, combined with an Act rendering com-

pulsory the relief of destitution, wherever it may
exist, without reference to any local circumstances
of previous residence, or otherwise, of the applicant
for relief."

So truth does progress ; but prejudice, with the
tenacious hold of a death-grasp, yet keeps the way —
that same prejudice that made Galileo choose between
the contradiction of his senses and death. And
though priests of prejudice and superstition extorted
from the philosopher the assurance that the earth was
not round and did not move, it was round and
did move for all that, and he knew it ; and when the
people caught the notion and adopted it, then the
prejudiced sanctioned it, and pledged their faith
upon it.

The English people arc not addicted to change.
We wear our political garments till they are long
past fashion, and threadbare, and cease to have any
claim to be called decent. We seem content with
precisely the same institutions that served our
forefathers, and present ofttimes a very ludicrous
appearance as we try to riggle our feet into the high-
heeled, red-leathered clogs of a past race, called shoes,
with the intention of walking. Eree locomotion is
a tiling not to be attained under such circumstances,
and a high political wind is often as dangerous to our
equilibrium, as a boisterous breath of Boreas up the
streets of Pekin to a nicely-balanced Chinese lady.

It is perhaps avcU that we love not change, aud
that all change amongst us must necessarily be pre-
ceded by the strong and expressed conviction amongst
the people, showing that individual thought and
attention have been directed to the subject, and
concluding that change is necessary to the welfare of
the nation. The Legislature, following the pro-
gress of public opinion, records and substantiates
this idea when it is matured and can make itself
fdt.

Two years have now passed since the Select Com-
mittee resolved, as we have seen above — two years
have elapsed since the Boards of Guardians spoke out
iu the manner we have noticed — and the law of
settlement remains as much a fact as ever ! And
why ? Simply because you and I, and thousands of
others like us, good reader, manifest no peculiar
interest about the matter, and care not, so little do
we think or care about the law of settlement, whether
it is repealed or retained in force. By far the largest
majority of the clearcit thinkers — all our inspectors
and statisticians— concur in the opinion tliat the law
in question should be repealed. The fear of change,
and tlie uncertainty and difficulty of agreement about
a substitute, forms, I feel satisfied, the principal stick-
ing point, except prejudice, which, as I said before,
prefers the shoes it wore when a child, to those better
fitting a grown person.

A few words may be said on this subject in another

216

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

letter, If we can but agree ou vi'hat is to be doue,
the snpiueuess of Government will cease ; and when-
ever the people of England once understand this
question, and form an opinion upon it, such an
opinion will prove a sure warrant for the reraoyal of
pauper settlements " from the region of legislation
into that of history, there to serve with 'Wager of
Battel,' and other now abrogated absurdities of
' Father Antic the Law,' as memorable examples of
the slow progress of reason and justice among the
rulers of a just and reasonable people."

No. XII.
The law of settlement, without a leg to stand
upon, like some other political anomalies, yet stands.
As I said before, the EngUsh people are nowise
addicted to change : they hold tenaciously to an old
institution, until they see it in all respects well super-
seded. And, considering that the power of vision is
with some people very limited, or impeded by in-
terest, it is often that an innovation has to wait long
in the ante-chamber before admission is granted to
it.

Now those who only look straight forward, and
only behold one or two points of the case before
us, without regarding its manifold bearings on the
right hand and on the left, may be expected to
decide that a solution is easily arrived at. But we
have to deal with what, in my opinion, amounts to a
covflict of evils j and common sense suggests that
we should take all reasonable pains to be sure we
choose the least, aud that whatever course we take
we keep sounding our way from time to time.

A simple solution of this question is not possible.
No course is free from difficulties of considerable
magnitude, and no foresight can descry with cer-
tainty what new mischief may arise. Here lies the
reason for the demurrage that we complain of. But,
surely, it is false policy to stand still. We ascer-
tain that we are wrong — that our present course is
an injustice to the whole body of the working com-
munity, and a great charge upon the ratepayers ; and
we must not be deterred from an attempt at re-
formation by the risk of failure. Having made
up our minds that this state of things cannot con-
tinue, we must look with the utmost care at the
whole case, " and labour, by prudence and careful
amendment, to avoid the most urgent incouveniencies
resulting from the present law, and to impose on
society the smallest practical amount of new ones."
By maximising the advantages and minimising the
disadvantages inherent in the subject, we shall have
secured ourselves from failure, as far as human
ability wiU allow us to do so.

Every one will admit that in any change affecting
the law of settlement the following points ought to

be steadily kept in view : — In the first place, as
little restraint as possible should be inflicted upon
the poor on the one hand, and upon the employer of
labour on the other. In the next, the incidence of
the poor-rate, like that of any other tax, should be
equally and fairly distributed over the whole com-
munity, avoiding any unreasonable interference with
existing rights of property, or any material diminu-
tion of those securities for economy and good
management which we now possess.

We have aj^plied this test to the question. Is a/ij/
pari of the 'policy of the law of removal maintainable ?
and have found that there is not ; for all legislation,
avowedly for the protection of the poor, is in reality
for the oppression of the poor, aud tends to shackle
the free industry of our country.

And if we apply this test to another question,
namely. Are there any objections, then, to the entire
abolition of settlement and removal? we shall in time
receive the same answer — No.

There are, I admit, some very plausible objections
to this entire abolition. Eor instance, it is urged
that there w^ould be a danger of insufficient checks
upon pauperism and vagrancy. But this danger I
have proved to be imaginary, as shown by the expe-
rience of the 35th Geo. III.

It is again objected that upon the entire aboli-
tion ofsettlemeut audreraoval, a deterioration aniongst
unsettled labourers would ensue.

It is only in view of this danger that the commis-
sioners of 1834 make any defence for the law in
question. And the argument they use 275^//'m;?/;/2>5
a condemnation of settlement ! For the b(meiit of a
few unsettled labourers, whom the fear of removal
affects, all society is to be kept under the injurious law
of settlement and removal. If it is desirable to pro-
mote a fear of removal, as a means of making relief
ineligible, we can effectuate it by less injurious means.
As I have previously shown, this means is indirect,
partial, temporary, while the hnrtful operation of
the law is coiistant and universal. Besides, the sup-
posed effects of this fear have disappeared with the
improved administration of the poor laws ; and the
safeguard is virtually abandoned by provision for
residential irremovability.

Then comes the danger of relaxing the hard con-
ditions of relief. The commissioners say : — "With
respect to the hardship on those who may be re-
moved, that a person who applies to be maintained
out of the produce of the industry and frugality of
others must accept that relief on the terms which
the public good requires." Aud in reference to this,
Mr. Coode, in his supplemental report, says: — "This
evidently relates not to the moral and industrious
labourer, whose independence is preserved by the
fear of removal, and who under that fear abstains
from applying for relief, but to those who do in fact

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

217

apply, and are in fact removed ; and the wliole pas-
sage is a supposed justificatiou of the hardship
actually incurred in their removal. It is wholly
another question from that of maintaining the inde-
pendence, industry, and morality of the non-settled
labourers who abstain from relief, though perhaps it
may involve the approval of the principle of George
Buchanan's practice of whipping one scholar for the
improvement of the other, and may be understood
to justify the hardship on those who are removed,
for its moral effects on those who are not."

I quite agree with the commissioners that appli-
cants for relief must be content to receive it in such
a way as the public good shall direct ; but we have
again and again seen that the law of removal is not
identical in any way with this public good. It has
earned for itself rather the epithet — public evil.
The good supposed to be produced upon the un-
settled labourer by witnessing the hardships suffered
by those who accept relief is partial. It only
operates on the unsettled : the settled have not this
fear before their eyes ; and it forms no hinderance,
therefore, to their application for relief. We want
a motive that may act on all — the unsettled and the
settled, and save both from degradation. The work-
house supplies this blank (at least, it is the best sup-
ply we have at present), and therefore the hardship
of removal is quite superfluous. Besides, as I re-
marked before, the safeguard too is now abandoned
by residential irremovability.

There are some other less defined objections to
the abolition of removal; but they are altogether
unworthy of much notice. In my past letters, most
of them have been remarked upon and answered,
and as they are not material, it is not worth while to
refer to them again.

Difficult as it is to foresee the evils that might ac-
crue from the abolition of removal, we can foretell
these positive advantages :

There wiU be an improved use of labour and
capital — a dissolution of parish bondage. The
change will be in accordance with the spirit of the
age, and the improved spirit of public charity.

The abolition of removal must necessarily aid a
sound admiaistration of the poor-law in aU its de-
tails. It would more unerringly expose the indis-
criminate and unlimited demand of strangers and
vagrants, and would enforce an admiaistration of
relief on broader and sounder principles.

The abolition of removal would materially aid to
the eaforcement of the vagrancy-laws (provided those
vagrancy-laws are founded in justice). Settlement
has never touched vagrancy, save to increase it ;
for the removal of vagrants was always found to be
inoperative, and therefore never attempted.

The abolition of removal would also facilitate the
formation of unions for rating, or raising a common

fund — which are improvements impossible with the
present obstacles.

Anxious to sift the subject to the bottom, I have
sought to ascertain whether there is any middle
ground. Can any course be adopted between the
absolute retention, and the entire abolition of the
settlement-laws?

How, for instance, would it be to abolish all settle-
ments but birth-settlement, and to have a residential
irremovability ? Why, birth-settlement, in the first
instance, is veri/ remote i)i its origin ; that is quite a
sufficient difficulty, and would lead to much litiga-
tion. But it is also most cruel in its operation ; and
that will not accord with our test above. It; is,
moreover, disastrous hi its effects and very alarming
to all the poor. Under such a regulation, about five-
sevenths of the whole population would be shifted to
their birthplaces, so many having acquired settle-
ments. " Such a disturbance," says a writer on the
subject, "would exceed in numerical effect, as well
as in violence, all the changes ever made, from the
origin to the last modification of the settlement-
laws." xind if we propose to balance such mischief
by a residential irremovability, we are met by the
extreme opposed mischiefs of a birth and subsistory
residence, and the special evils of settlement and ir-
removability founded on residence.

Well then, giving up that idea as hopeless, would
it be desirable to merge the parish settlement in a
union settlement ?

Such an arrangement would certainly counteract
the motive to dispeople parishes ; but would aggra-
vate the objection to settling; and the balance of
loss and gain to the poor man would be difficult to
determine, since his whole gain would consist of a
greater area wherein to take his labour and fix his
residence — namely, the union — combined with a much
increased difficulty of obtaining a residence in any
other union; and the benefit of union settlement
would, in this case, be inferior to that of abolition.
It appears not to me, either, that it would open a
new field to labour, nor would it facilitate dis-
peision.

And v/ith respect to union-settlement diminishing
removals and litigation, authorities on the subject
seem to agree in saying that when unions were
formed (1834;), union-settlement might have been
deemed desirable ; but that now it would effect very
little diminution — not one-eleventh, apparently not
one-eighteenth. My own experience tells me that a
diminution of removals is not really effected; and
that removals are by no means harmless and inex-
pensive within the unions.

It is obvious that a union-settlement M'ould sepa-
rate the interests of unions, and raise a perpetual con-
flict of the boards of guardians. Those who have
given much attention to the subject say that "coa-

Q 2

il8

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

testa would bo more inteuae throiigli the greater
directness of the personal interests of guardians,
aud more frequently through their greater facilities."
There will be strong parties formed, and personal in-
terests wdll become apparent at quarter-sessions. I
cannot, thei'efore, say that union-settlement is a good

step towards the abolition of settleuieut. And no
other intermediate ground is to be found. All pro-
])Osals between the law of settlement and its entire
abolition are weighed in the balance, and found
wanting. Nothing is efl'ectual — nothing can be
effectual — save national freedom. E. 1\. S.

HIGHLAND AND AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY OF SCOTLAND.
MEETING AT BERWICK-ON-TWEED.

The good old town of Berwick-upon-Tweed has
been once more in a state of siege. It has encoun-
tered this, too, with a success which quite echpses
all the glories of tb.e past. That high authority,
"the oldest inhabitant," has fairly struck his
colours, and confessed that, in the whole history of
the time and place, he remembers nothing like it.
Never were there seen such continued crowds
invading it ; and never were they gathered
together with a better object. Their presence
came as a grateful tribute to the blessings of peace,
instead of — as of yore — a forced homage to the
horrors of war. They met now on a field where
the strife was only as to who should do most for
the general good. For this. North and South once
more prepared their forces ; and here, for a second
time, they brought the contest to an issue.

They did so at the bidding of a society somewhat
curiously entitled " The Highland and Agricultural
Society of Scotland." Under this comprehensive
claim, the members essay to represent the agricul-
ture of the north ; and it is only fair to add that,
through this channel, they do their country every
justice. It is rarely that any public body has con-
tinued to enjoy such an uninterrupted course of
success. Established now for upwards of seventy
years, it only further increases in importance and
utility. The secret of this long career is, that its
object has not only been well directed, but that, as
the instrument of good, it has been well supported.
There is no institution in which landlord and
tenant have together demonstrated with more effect
the advantage of a long pull and a strong pull,
than the history of the Highland Agricultural
Society.

Avowedly the parent of ail similar associations,
the Highland has a somewhat wider range than
any of those which have still taken it as example
for their construction and proceedings. It now,
in fact, combines in itself something of the Royal
English Agricultural Society, v/ith something
further of the Smithfield Club, having a show of
breeding stock in the summer, and of fat stock at
Christmas— a nice distinction, perhaps, which it is

at scarcely more pains to define than its younger

brother in the south. There were many animals at

Berwick which might have passed muster with the

butcher, without any complaint as to their condi-

1 tion. The Scottish Society, however, has never

yet, we believe, held two of these meetings in one

I year. The winter show is a new feature, while the

1 summer or breeding one is at present only arranged

for biennially; the meeting at Perth in 1852 being

the immediate precursor of that at Berwick in

1854.

From our growing intimacy with the past history
of the Society we are inclined to believe it has seldom
had a more thoroughly successful day than this first
Tliursdayin August. Therewere many things which,
happily, conduced to this. In the first place, we had
once more to thank that railway accommodation
which brought visitors, from even very neighbour-
ing districts, who otherwise might not have been
present. The fineness of the day was another
inducement with these, and one wdiich served,
as is now the fashion, to convert what was wont
to be considered a mere class-meeting into a
general festival. Though lacking the evergreen
arches and floral display of the south, the occasion
was kept as a kind of general holiday — the shops
closed, with everybody alive only to the one en-
grossing business before them.

So far, the m.anagement must have good reason
to feel satisfied with the manner in which their
object is appreciated by all classes. As we have
said already, they are well supported. The innate
merits of the meeting, as a display of agricultural
produce and ability, depended upon something
more than this. The locality was esj^ecially well
adapted to court the competition of both sides of
the Border. We might even have expected some-
thing of a trial between the two; and any one, in
fact, who started with this assumption, could have
found little cause for disappointment. Through all
the best classes, the reader will gather even from
the prize-list that t,h3 Highland Show did not de-
pend solely on Scotland for its attractions. Cer-
tainly, by far the strongest of any variety of animals

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

219

exhibited were the shorthorns generally, both bulls
and cows. It is only fair to say that the Scotch
breeders made a very good stand here, and that, if
beaten, they were conquered only by those who
might show with equal advantage against the
world. The premium for the best bull, as well as
that for the best cow, it will be found, were both
carried off by Mr. Booth, of Warlaby, long re-
nowned as a breeder of the shorthorn. The
strongest man against him was Mr. Douglas, of
Athelstaneford, a comparatively young beginner,
who is, however, rapidly and deservedly gaining a
celebrity for his stock. His efforts have already
been recognized in England, at the late Lincoln
meeting, with a remarkably clever heifer, and, in a
lower degree, for a young bull. They were both
almost necessarily distinguished at Berwick. Mr.
Booth, too, as the careful observer could remark,
had been content to bring only his very best
animals.

Almost co-equal with the shorthorns we may rank
the show of Leicester sheep. It is seldom indeed
that one now sees so excellent an entry as was
made here. Whether estimated for their pure
quality, or for the size to which they may be brought,
the show was a remarkable one. The former of
these recommendations had, of course, most weight
with the Judges ; and here, again, the award was
chiefly in favour of the Southron— Mr. Douglas
once more heading the ranks brought down to
dispute it. Justice still must declare that the Scotch
farmer has done his duty with the Leicester sheep.
The exhibition from the north alone was most com-
mendable, while many considered that, for the
locality they were bred in, they were even superior
to others placed above them in the fortunes of
the day.

Disposing of these two celebrated animals— the
Shorthorn and the Leicester — and we have the
meeting of the Scotch Society more national in its
character. The Polled, Ayrshire, and Highland
breeds of cattle had each his separate class, with
little or no competition beyond the Border. So,
too, was it with the Cheviot and horned sheep
and the Clydesdale horses. The Southdown sheep
had scarcely any more immediate assistance from
the Southern breeder. Mr. Aitcheson, of Alderson,
is the Jonas Webb of these parts ; and when we
say that he fairly beat the Duke of Richmond, we
give something of a guai'antee as to the excellence
of his flock. Of the genuine Scotch breeds the
long-tailed Cheviot showed to the greatest ad-
vantage. A well-formed animal with a good deal
on it, the breed says much for the care that has been
taken with them. They had a very uniform cha-
racter, and Mr. Brydon's tups and ewes especially
were the object of much well-merited approval.

The picturesque curling-horned " black -faced"
promised in no way so well, in the way of profit at
least; while his companion in rough weather
and hard fare, the shaggy-coated and equally
picturesque-looking Highland ox, we never re-
member to have seen so poorly represented. We
have had far better specimens of him at Birmingham
and Baker-street.

Of the Polled and Ayrshire, on the other hand,
there was a very good muster — the former kind
with the feeder would have a very decided pre-
ference; whereas the Ayrshire are recommended
for their milking quaUties. The Ayrshire cows,
indeed, as shown here, partake very strongly of the
Alderney both in shape and colour. They have,
too, famous udders, and are no doubt all they are
represented to be for dairy purposes. Compared,
though, with the long and even " Polled" cattle,
they make but a poor figure in a show-yard.

In nothing, however, should a Scotch show be
more celebrated than in its exhibitions of horses
adapted for " agricultural purposes." To this,
indeed, the Highland Society confines itself. It
recognizes in the prize list neither hunter, hack,
nor harness horse : all its premiums are strictly for
" agricultural purposes." The sort here shown is
supposed by many, not merely in Scotland, to be
the best draught horse in the world. With a won-
derfully compact and powerful frame he unites capital
hght action -stepping as true and as active as a
Welsh pony. It is only right to say that their
exhibitors are quite aware of this accomphshment;
for, though all numbered and classed in stalls, there
were some half-dozen or so of stallions and others
out at a time, going at all sorts of paces, and
threading their way through a by no means
despicable crowd with remarkable instinct. Our
only wonder is, there was no collision or accident ;
after all, there are none of our countrymen, north
or south, can manage a show of horses like the
Yorkshireman.

We must candidly confess we were rather disap-
pointed in this branch of the meeting. The horse
show was certainly allowed to be " unequal" by
those who had most experience of what the Society
had hitherto done in this way. The mares and
young stock were thought to be the best part of it ;
but even these hardly " passed" after Ripon. The
Clydesdales, from what we saw, seldom "furnish"
so quickly as some of our breeds in the South. Of
the stallions, the best was an aged horse already
distinguished in the records of the Society, and
so no longer quahfied to compete for the first prize
— which, as it was,, created some considerable dis-
cussion as to the award, whether first and second
were properly placed. There were many clever
horses, no doubt, but some with a good deal of

220

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

" day-light" about them ; and altogether, we fancy
the Clydesdale horse, like the Highland ox, has had
more justice done him on former occasions.

A short entry of both pigs and poultry requires
but proportionate comment. There was little of the
admirari in either. The implement department, on
the contrary, was thought to be a great way in
advance on what has been. Here, too, the presence
of the Englishman had much to do with the success
of the occasion, many of our most celebrated
manufacturers sending specimens of their work-
manship. They were rather surprised to find
these arranged in the yard, class for class, like
the Shorthorns and Ayrshire. All the ploughs
in one row, drills in another division, chaff cutters
in a third, and so on. The "make-up" of a stall
was consequently destroyed, and some good-natured
grumbling a natural consequence. It is question-
able to us whether the English plan be not the
preferable one. There are few implements whose
merits and object do not require continued exposi-
tion for those who bring them ; while this at Ber-
wick was, of course, an utter impossibility. Briareus
himself must have had far more heads than Cer-
berus, to have attended to so many people looking
at so many pieces of machinery as some of our
great firms bring together.

The now great feature in the trial list, that of the
reaping machines, was set over for Stirling, in con-
sequence, it was said, of there being no corn fit.
As it was, Crosskill's Bell \yas the only one on the
ground. The postponement must have been
some disappointment to Messrs. Crosskill, their
machine having been considerably improved and
" eased" since last season. Commencing on the
Wednesday, the first day of the Ripon Show, we
were unable to be present at the Berwick trials ;
but, we hear, of all those implements put to
woik, Howard's general purpose plough seems to
have created the greatest impression on the minds
of the Scotch agriculturists. A local contem-
porary thus speaks to the "impression" it made : —
" Consideraljle discussion took place amongst the
general spectators as to the merits of the several
ploughs, and the feeling among them seemed to be
in favour of those which combined, with other
qualities, simplicity of structure. A very admirable
wheel plough was exhibited by Messrs. Howard, of
Bedford, and it attracted greater notice than any
other implement on the ground, so that up to the
close of the trials it was kept in constant employ-
ment, and was attentively watched by many prac-
tical men, who seemed to take great interest in its
performances, by which the prejudices of most on
the ground in favour of the superiority of the Scotch
plough were severely shaken. The only drawback
from its complete approval arose from an appre-

hension that its machinery was not so simple but
that if disarranged or out of repair it would not be
easily put right again. We should not omit to re-
mark that this plough is fitted with shifting moulds,
so that it may be adapted to the land on which
placed. Its draught, too, was but three to three
and a half, which was less than any other plough
whose draught we heard of — some of them rising
to five and five and a half."

We must now return to the prize list and
dinner report already published, to furnish " fur-
ther particulars" of the meeting at Berwick-
upon-Tu-eed. The gathering, in many respects
an important one, was rendered yet more in-
teresting from the attention the Highland So-
ciety is giving, and has given, to the question of
agricultural statistics. It is allowed on all hands,
by the Government especially, that what has been
done here has been well done; and it appears,
moreover, to be determined that the collection of
such information shall, at least as far as Scotland
is concerned, result in something more than a mere
experiment. With this object, Mr. Hall Maxwell,
the secretary of the society, calls meetings and
delivers lectures, resolves himself into a working
committee, and really does a great deal of work,
too. Mr. Maxwell, in fact, is a wonderfully energetic
man. At Berwick he was busily engaged all day
in the yard, taking money v.'hen things went well,
and vehemently assuring the crowd they should
not come in at all when they threatened to come in
all at once. In the council-room at one minute,
on his hack at the other end of the yard the next
— explaining to the people of Scotland generally on
one evening how they should arrange the statistical
returns required of them, and demonstrating to the
good folks of Berwick, on the next, how it was he
could not afford to deal with them. He went
through all this, too, v/ith a success on which we
can sincerely congratulate him as the most efficient
representative of that most efficient association —
" The Highland and Agricultural Society of
Scotland."

This society, uov/ in its 70th. year, was instituted in 1784,
and received a royal charter in 1787, its objects being cora-
paratively few and of a purely local character. But the
exertions of the society, instead of being restricted to the
Highlands, were early extended to the lowlands of Scotland,
and directed to the promotion of the science and practice of
agriculture in all its various branches. In 1834 it received
another royal charter, in accordance with its enlarged sphere
of operation.

Premiums amounting to upwards of 2,000?. are awarded for
reports on every subject connected with the improvement and
cultivation of the soil and the rearing and feeding of stock.
Encouragement is offered for the management of the dair}%
the growth of timber, and useful inventions in agricultural
machinery, while the comforts and convenience of the labour-

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

231

ing classes are promoted by stimulating proprietors to improve
the construction and increase the accommodation of their
cottage dwellings.

LIST OF PRIZES.

SHORT-HORNS.
JuBGES. — John Grey, Dilston, Newcastle-upon-Tyne; Cha».

Lyall, Kincraig, Brechin ; John Outhwait'e, Biiinesse,

Catterick, Yorkshire. Attending member, Sir John Stuart

Forbes.

Best bull, cftlved before 1st January, 1852, SOL and the
silver medal, Richard Booth, Warlabj', Northallerton ; second
best, 15^., Thomas Simson, Blaiuslie, Lauder; third best, cer-
tificate of merit, George Shepherd, Shethiu, Tarves, Aber-
deenshire.

Best bull, calved after 1st January, 1852, 30L, William
Campbell, Tillichewan Castle, Dumbartonshire ; second best,
15Z., Andrew Longmore, Rettie, Banff; third best, certificate
of merit, John Marshall, Chatton Park, Alnwick.

Best bull, calved after 1st January, 1853, 201., James
Douglas, Athelstaneford, Drem ; second be&t, lOZ , Nicol
Miloe, Faldonside, Melrose ; third best, certificate of merit, F.
H. Fawkes, Farnley Hall, Otley, Yorkshire.

Best bull, calved after Ist January, 1854, 10/., Richard
Booth, Warlaby; second best, 5Z., Thomas Willis, Manor
House, Carperly, Bedale ; third best, certificate of merit,
Thomas Willis.

Beat cow of any age, 201., Richard Bcoili ; second best, lOZ.,
William Tod, Elphiuatone Tower, Tranent ; third best, certi-
ficate of merit, Thomas Clirisp, Hawkhill, Alnwick.

Best heifer, calved after 1st January, 1852, 15Z., James
Douglas, Athelstaneford ; second best, 81., R. W. Saunders,
Nunwlck Hall, Penrith ; third best, certificate of merit, W.
Campbell, of Tillichewan.

Best heifer, calved after 1st January, 1853, lOZ., Richard
Booth, Warlaby ; second best, 51., James Douglas, Athelstane-
ford ; third best, certificaLe of merit, John Haig, Cameron
House, Kirkcaldy.

Best heifer, calved after 1st January, 1854, 81., James
Douglas, Athelstaneford.

POLLED BREEDS.
Judges. — John Collier, Panlathie, Carnonstie; George

Brown, Aberdeenshire. Attending member, R. Hodgson,

of Carham.

Best Bull, calved before 1st January, 1852, 20/., Sir James
Carnegie, Bart., Kinnaird Castle, Brechin, and the silver medal
to Alex. Bowie, Mains of Kelly, Arbroath, as the breeder ;
second best, 10/,, Alex. Bowie, Mains of Kelly ; third best,
certificate of merit, Sir A. Burnett, Bart., of Leyes, Crathes,
Banchory.

Best Bull, calved after 1st January, 1852,10/., Alex. Bowie,
Mains of Kelly ; second best, 5/,, William M'Combie, Til'y.
fuur, Aberdeen.

Best Cow, of any age, 10/., William M'Combie, TiUyfour;
second best, 10/,, Sir James Carnegie, Bart. ; third best, cer-
tificate of merit, W. M'Combie, Tillyfour.

Best Heifer, calved after 1st January, 1852, 8/.. W.
M'Combie ; second best, 4.I., Sir James Carnegie, Bart. ; third
best, certificate of merit. Sir A. Burnett, Bart.

AYRSHIRE BREED.
Judges. — Patrick Graham Barns, of Lime-kilns, East Kil-
bride; William Forrest, of Treesbanks, Lanarkshire; John
Macfarlane, Faslane, Helensburgh. Attending member,
Captain Campbell.
Best Bull, of any age, 20/., Robert Paton, Cloberhill, New

Kilpatrick, and the silver medal to William M'Kane, Lumlock,
Cadder, as the breeder ; second best, 10/., James Stark, Rose-
bank, St. Roliox, Glasgow ; third best, certificate of merit,
William Kerr, Barrodger, Lochwinnoch.

Best Cow, of any age, in milk, 10/., Alex. Murdoch, Hall-
side, Cambuslaug; second best, 5/., A. Findlay, Mainhill,
Baillieston, Glasgow ; third best, certificate of merit, James
Robertson, Hall of Caldwell, Neilston.

Best Cow, of any age, in calf, 10/., and second best 51., to
James Robertson ; third best, certificate of merit, John
Stewart, Strathaven, Lanarkshire.

Best Heifer, calved after 1st January, 1852, 8/., Johu
Stewart ; second best, 4/., Robert Kirkwood, Highlongmuir,
Kilmaurs; third best, certificate of merit, James Wilson,
Wester Cowden, Dalkeith.

HIGHLAND BREED.— (Same Judges.)
Best Bull, of any age, 20/., Neill Malcolm, of Pollalloch,

Lochgilphead, and the silver medal as the breeder.

Best Cow, of any age, 10/., Allan PoUok, Ronachan, West

Tarbet.

Best Heifer, calved after let January, 1851, 8/., and second

best 4/,, Allan PoUok, Ronachan.

HORSES FOR AGRICULTURAL PURPOSES.
Judges — Robert Findlay, SpringhiU, Glasgow ; John Gibson,
Woolmet, Edinburgh ; Alexander Rennie, Craigburn, Fal-
kirk ; Professor Dick, Edinburgh. Attending member,
Captain Falconer.

Best stallion, thirty sovereigns, Charles Phillips, Cracrop,
Brampton, Cumberland ; and the silver medal, as the breeder.
Second, fifteen sovereigns, John Murton, Lambolethan, St.
Andrews. Third, certificate of merit, John Smith, Grass-
market, Edinburgh.

Best entire colt, foaled after Ist January, 1851, twenty
sovereigns, Robert Findlay, of Easterhill, Glasgow ; second,
ten sovereigns, Thomas Muir, Bowhouse, Lanark. Third,
certificate of merit, John Young, Niddry, Winchburgh.

Best entire colt foaled after 1st January, 1852, ten sove-
reigns, John Pattie, Dalrisken, Tinwald, Dumfries. Second,
five sovereigns, James Douglas, Athehtaaeford. Third, certi-
ficate of merit, F. T. Bryan, Knossiugton, Oakham.

Best entire colt foaled after 1st January, 1853, £8, Andrew
Allan, Clerance, Dundonald. Second, £4, Robert Murdoch,
Hallside, Cambuslang. Third, certificate of merit, William
La\vrie, Ferny flat, Edinburgh.

Best brood mare, £20, Andrew Logan, Cropflat, Kilbarchan.
Second, £10, James Douglas, Athelstaneford. Third, certifi-
cate of merit, Robert Findlay, of Easterhill, Glasgow.

Best filly, foaled after Ist January, 1851, £10, David
Wright, Southfield, Preston-pans. Second, £5, Andrew
Logan, Crossflat. Third, certificate of merit, John Slate,
Sunnyside, Prestonkirk.

Best filly foaled after 1st of January, 1852, £8, Robert
Jack, Balcurroch, Campsie, Stirling. Second, £4, Thomas
Smith, Chilliugham Newtown, Alnwick. Third, certificate of
merit, James Douglas, Athelstaneford.

Best filly foaled after 1st Januarj', 1853, £6, William Kerr,
Wester Causewayeud, Midcalder.

SHEEP.
LEIC ESTERS,
Judges.— William Parker, Yanwath Hall, Penrith; Alex.
Scott, Craiglockhart, Edinburgh ; John Buckley, Norman-
ton Hill, Loughborough ; and Wm. Sanday, Holme Pierre-
point, Nottingham. Attending Members: William
Aitchison, of Linhope ; and John Beatson Bell, of Glenfarg.

222

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

Best tup, not more than four shear, £20, Samuel Wiley,
Brandsley, York ; second best, £10, James Douglas, Athel-
staneford ; third best, certificate of merit, Samuel Wiley.

Best Jinmont or shearling tup, £20 ; second best, £10 ;
and third best, certificate of merit, S.Wiley.

Best pen of five ewes, not more than fovir shear, £10,
S. Wiley ; second best, £5, James Douglas, Athelstaneford ;
third best, certificate of merit, James Douglas.

Best pen of five shearling ewes or gimmers, £10, John
Collie, Ardgay, Elgin ; second best, £5, James Douglas ;
tliiid best, certificate of merit, Thomas Simson, Blainslie.

CHEVIOTS.

Judges. — John Graham, younger, of Shaw; Andrew
Eastou, Todrig ; John Marshall, Chattoii Park, Northum-
berland; William Patersoii, Twiglees, Dumfriesshire.
Attending Members : John Miller, of Leithen ; and Fiulay
Dun, V.S., Edinburgh.

Best tnp, not more than four shear, £15, and second best
£8, Jara3s Brydon, Moodlaw, Langholm ; third best, certifi-
cate of merit, Thomas Elliot, liiudhope.

Best dinmont or shearling tup, £15, second best £8, and
third best certificate of merit, John Carruthers, Kirkhill,
Mofiatt.

Best pen of five ewes, not mors than four shear, £8, James
Brydon, Moodlaw ; second bes £4, Thomas C. Borthwick,
Hopsrig, Langholm ; third best, certificate of merit, T. C.
Borthwick.

Best pen of five shearling ewes or gimmers, £8, James Bry-
don, Moodlaw ; second best, £4, T. C. Borthwick ; third best,
certificate of merit, Thomas Elliot, Hindhope.

BLACKFACED BREEDS.

Judges. — John Archibald, Duddingstoue, and James
Stodart, Waltson, NoblehouJe. Attending member, Robert
J. Thomson, Hangingside, West Lothian.

Bfst tup, not more than four shear, £10, Robert Patterson,
of Birthwood, Biggar ; second best, £5, James Tweedie,
Nether Abington, Lanarkshire ; third best, certificate of
merit, Robert Patersou, of Birthwood.

Best dinmont or shearling tup, £10, James Tweedie ;
second best, £5, John Watson, Nisbet, Biggar; third best,
certificate of merit, James Tweedie.

Best pen of five ewes, not more than four shear, £6, James
Brydon ; second best, £3, Adam Blacklock, Minnygap,
Moffat.

Best pen of five shearling ewes or gimmers, £6, Allan
Pollok, Ronachan; second best, £3, George Proudfoot, Stid-
riggs, Moffatt.

SOUTHDOWNS,

Judges. — George Willis, Keithock Mills, Forfarshire ;
and Hugh Watson, Keillor, Forfarshire. Attending member,
James Fairbairn, Kelso.

Best tup, not more than four shear, £10, James Aitchisou,
of Alderston ; second beat, £5, the Duke of Richmond, Gor-
don Castle; third best, certificate of merit, Wm. Forster,
Burradon, Rothbury.

Best Dinmont or shearling tup, £10; second best, £5;
and third best, certificate of merit, Mr. Aitchison, of Alder-
ston.

Best pen of five ewes, not more than four shear, £6, the
Duke of Richmond ; second beat, £3, Robert Oliver, Lochside,
Kelso ; third best, certificate of merit, James W. Hunter, of
Thurston, Dunbar.

Best pen of five shearling ewes or gimmers, £6, Wm, Tod,

Elphinstone Tower, Trauaut ; second best, £3, Robert Oliver,
Lochside; third best, certificate of merit, James Aitchison.

PIGS.

Judges : John M'Laren,Mlll Hill, Perthshire; John Smith,

Kniblethmont, Forfarshire ; George Willis, Keithock Mills ;

and John Wilson, Nicolton. Attending member, Mr. A.

Bethune.

Best boar, large breed, lOl., Jonathan Brov/n, The Height,
Wigtou ; second best, 5/., George Hay Plummer Melville,
Dalkeith ; third best, certificate of merit, Col. Ferguson, of
Raith, Kirkcaldy.

Best boar, small breed, 10/., Jonathan Brown, The Height ;
second best, 51., R. H. Watson, BiltonPark, Wigton ; third
best, certificate of merit, R. II. Watson.

Best sow, large breed, 61., Henry Atkinson, Alnwick ; second
best, 3?., George Murray, Mount Pleasant, Berwick ; third
best, certificate of merit, Edward Makins, Auchincrow Mains,
Ayton.

Best sow, small breed, 6/., Jonathan Brown, The Height ;
second best, 3/., George Moore Dixon, Netherwitton, Mor-
peth ; third best, certificate of merit, 11. H. Watson, Bilton
Park.

Best pen of three pigs, not exceeding eight months old, 4/.,
R. H. Watson ; second best, 21., Nicol Milne, of Faldonside ;
third best, certificate of merit, R. H. Watson.

COMMENDATIONS.

EXTRA STOCK.

Commended. — Short-horned cows belonging to George R.
Carnegie, Edrom Newton, Ayton.

Strongly Commended. — A cow in-calf, belonging to
Mr. Malcolm, of Poltalloch.

Extra Sheep.
Commended. — A Southdown tup, Jas. Aitchison, of
Alderston.

AWARDS OP PREMIUMS FOR IMPLEMENTS.

For the best two-horse plough for general purposes, £3, J.
and F. Howard, Bedford.

Best trench or deep furrow plough, £3, G. Ponton, Lin-
lithgow.

Best subsoil plough for two hordes, £4, James Kirkwood,
Tranent.

Beat subsoil plough for moor and stony land for three or
four horses, £4, Robert Law, Shettlestou, Glasgow.

Best double mould-board plough for forming drills, £3, G.
Sellar and Son, Huntly.

Best improvement on or substitute for the common plough
in lifting potatoes, £3, G. Ponton, Linlithgow.

Best two-horse grubber or cultivator, £4, G. Ponton, Lin-
lithgow.

Best drill grubber for green crops, £2, Wm. Purves, Linton-
burnfoot, Kelso.

Best Norwegian harrow, £4, James Kirkwood, Tranent.

Best consolidating land roller, £5, W. Crosskill, Beverley.

Best land ptesser for preparing seed-bed for grain, £5,
Scoular and Co., Haddington.

Best pulverizing land roller, £5, Matthew Gibson and Son,
Newcastle.

Best harrows for heavy land, £3, J, and F. Howard, Bed-
ford.

Best harrows for light land, £3, J. and F. Howard.

Beat common swing-trees or draught-bars, £1, W, Gray,
Stane, Shotts, Motherwell.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

223

Best drill Bowing-macliine for graiu, £6, Thomas Sheriff,
West Barns, Dunbar.

Best horse hoe for drilled grain crops, £6, T. Sheriff, West
Barns, Dunbar.

Best liquid manure distributing machine, £4, R. Forshaw
and Co., Cornwallis-street, Liverpool.

Best turnip cutter for sheep, £2, William 'Wilsou and Son,
Berwick-onTweed,

Best turnip cutter for cattle, £2, R. Forshaw aad Co.,
Cornwallis-street, Liverpool.

Best turnip cutter for sheep, adapted for attachment to a
cart, £3 — James Kirk wood, Tranent.

Best linseed bruiser for hand labour, £2 — R. Forshaw and
Co.

Best graiu and linseed bruiser for power, £4 — R. Forshaw
and Co.

Best root washer, £2 — Wm. Crosskill, Beverley, Yorkshire.

Best steaming apparatus for preparing food, £3 — Andrew
Thompson, Berwick.

Best sheep fodder-rack, £2 — James Kirkwood, Tranent.

Best one-horse farm cart, £4— John Walker, Coldstream.

Best stone or iron stack pillars, with framework, £2 —
Young, Peddie, and Co., Edinburgh.

Best bay tedding machine, £4 — R,ichard Hodgson, of Car-
ham, Coldstream.

Best scythe for general purposes, £1 — James Smith, Law-
hill, Auditerarder.

Best improvement on any part of the thrashing machine,
£5 — Peter M'Lellan, Bridge of Earn.

Best dressing fanners, £4 — W. Crosskill, Beverley.

Best weighing machine, indicating from 1 lb. to 2 tons, £4 —
R. Forshaw and Co.

Best churn worked by hand, £2 — Peter M'Lellan, Bridge
of Earn.

Best churn worked by power, £3 — Philip Hunter, Nicolson-
street, Ediubargh.

Best field gate, constructed entirely of iron, £1 — Young,
Peddie, and Co., Edinburgh,

Best six iron hurdles for a fence to retain cattle, £2, and
best set of traverse divisions, rack and manger, for farm sta-
bles, £2 — Hernulewicz, Main, and Co., Glasgow.

Best set of farm harness — the premium divided equally
between James Duulop, Haddington, and Hunter and Allan,
Kelso.

Best machine for making drain tiles or pipes, £6 — William
Brodie, Seafield Tile Works, Dunbar.

Best set of tiles and pipes for field drainage, £1 — William
Brodie, SeaSeid, Dunbar.

Best set of tools for cutting field drains — £1, Wm. Cadell,
Sons, and Co., Cramond.

THE DINNER
Was held in a pavilion erected for the occasion. There were
above 500 gentlemen present, many of whom were tenant-
farmers. The Earl of Dalkeith occupied the chair, and was
supported by Mr. P. Clay (the mayor of Berwick), the Duke
of Roxburgh, the Earl of Haddington, Earl Grey, M. Yvart
(President of the Imperial French Commission of Agriculture),
Lord Melgund, Lord Blautyre, Lord Neaves, &c.

Sir JoliQ Forbes and Mr. Baillie, of Millersteio, were vice-
presidents.

After dinner the " Health of the Emperor Napoleon" was
given with the usual loyal toasts.

The Chairman, after stating that the Duke of Hamilton
had been unable to preside, owing to the death of a very near
relative, and explaining the circumstances under which he

had been called to take the chair on very short notice, pro-
ceeded to propose " The Highland and Agricultural Society
and the agricultural interest." The Highland Society, he said,
had now been in existence for 80 years, and, instead of in-
creasing ill infirmity as it grew older, it was increasing in
vitality and energy (cheers). As a proof of this, he might
stiite that, on a recent occasion, no fewer than 153 pwsons
had been admitted members of the society in one day. One
cause of its great su^ccess had, undoubtedly, been the influx of
the tenant farmers of the country into the association. These
tenant farmers had taken a great interest in the society, and
the local agricultural societies in connexion with it had
contributed much to its success (cheers). As a proof of the
very high position which the body now held, he might mention
that only last year it was entrusted with the management of
the statistical inquiry then instituted. That inquiry had been
most successfully conducted, and its success was no doubt
greatly owing to the services rendered by the farmers of the
country. As to the occasion which had brought them toge-
ther, he felt that it was uunecessary for him to expatiate on
the character of the show; in the presence of so many men
of much greater experience than himself, he would not pre-
sume to point cut its particular features, but he was sure all
would agree with him in thinking that it had been a moat
successful one (cheers).

The toast was drunk most enthusiastically.

Earl Grey, in proposing the next toast, said, I have been
requested by the committee of the society to give you "The
Agriculture of France and the Imperial Deputation present"
(cheers). I have gladly asseuted to the request made to me
by the society that I should give that toast, because I see
that it will require very few words indeed from me to recom-
mend it to your acceptance. It is one which you would gladly
drink at any time, but particularly at the present moment
(applause). Our noble president has already adverted to the
circumstances in which the country is now placed, to the
peril which our brave soldiers and sailors are now sharing with
those of France in the war in which it is the calamity of both
countries to be engaged — a calamity which, while we all
deplore it, I am sure we all feel is greatly mitigated by the
circumstance that it has brought us into our present relations
with that great and powerful nation which is our nearest
neighbour (cheers). While the nations are engaged in this
struggle, it is interesting that we should upon an occaaiou like
the present wish prosperity to the efforts of France in that
agriculture which is the basis of her greatness as it is of our
own. (Hear, hear). Gentlemen, you will also, I am sure,
rejoice with me to have this opportunity to give a cordial
welcome to the Imperial deputation which is present on this
occasion (cheers). I hope and trust that they have been
pleased with what they have seen, not only here but elsewhere,
particularly at the recent show of the Agricultural Society of
England. Gentlemen, I feel that it is quite unnecessary that
I should say more in recommending this toast to your notice,
and I will therefore now conclude by asking you to drink
" Success to the Agriculture of France and the Imperial De-
putation now present."

The toast having been drunk with all the honours,

M. YvART, in rising to acknowledge the toast, was re-
ceived with loud and long-continued cheering. He spoke in
French, to the following effect : — I have to express in my own
name, and on behalf of the deputation sent by the French
Government, our sincere thanks for the kind reception we
have met with, and for the facilities afforded to the deputation
to prosecute its inquiries at the Agricultural Exhibition of the
Highland Society at Berwick. We have had the privilege not

224

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

only of viewing your cattle and implements, but of studying
your regulations and usages, that we may usefully imitate
them in the agricultural shows of the French Government.
The toast, " To the Prosperity of the Agriculture of France"
will be received by my countrymen with gratitude. No coun-
try is more deeply connected with agriculture than France.
No country has mere agricultural labourers. This fact results
from the great variety of cultivation in France. In the south
the farmer adds to the grain crops the cultivation of grasses
and the silkvrorra ; in the north, the cultivation of grain goes
along with that of the oleiferous plants from which we get oil,
and the cultivation of beetroot, from which we get sugar.
These numerous and various occupations continually give
work to the people ; and that is certainly one of the reasons
which keeps the labouring classes in Fra;;ce from going
abroad. Thus, while ia England emigration is diminishing
your population, in France the population increases at home.
Should cny of the British farmers come to France, the French
would have great pleasure in showing th.em the high degree of
fertility obtained in French Flanders by the system of sscall
holding?. Not very far from the small holdings they would
see ia the northern departments large holdings, where the cul-
tivation of the beetroot and the iiranufaelure of sugar are
found to combine mechanical science with chemistry and hus-
bandry, and to unite skill in field labour with skill iu the work-
shop. For a long time the mangel-wurzel, or beetroot, has
furnished us with sugar and the means of fattening our cattle.
The last year was an unfortunate one amoog the vigne (grape
trees). The production of spirits was very much diaiinished,
and the loss was great ; but, happily, by the beetroot, the
French were able to cover a certain part of the deficit. The
farming of the centre of France, where the agriculturists are
growing wool and rearing sheep, is also worthy of the attention
of the British farmer. But there is no feeding with turnips
there ; the dry and hot climate does uot allow the farmers of
that part of France to grow turnips on a large scale. Tbey
feed their sheep with lucerne, with green phnls which grovv' to
the length of some feet. In the west part of France, near the
sea-coast of the Atlantic, our farmers can imitate their neigh-
bours of Great Britain. The British farmer would see also,
with interest, the cattle of France, and take a deep interest in
our mode of rearing them. Tlie horses of France, for agricul-
tural purposes, are not of such a large size as those of Britain,
but they are full of energy. The merino sheep have been im-
proved to such an extent that they can now be fed usefully for
the butchers' shops. Their wool is always very fine, of high
quality. Every year American and Australian agriculturists
are coming to France to purchase tups and ewes of this useful
breed. And we are improving with your Leicester t'jpa, some
of our flock fhrmers finding this to be profitable, although they
find it more so to improve with this breed for the butchers'
purposes. As regards the cattle, seme of the native breeds
are kept pure, being found useful for dairy purposes and for
farm v/ork ; but m some parts of France the short-horn bulls,
imported from Britain, are now n use for improving the breed
of cattle ; and at the agricultural exhibitions which are held
in France, British farmers would see British breeds with con-
siderable interest. Should the British farraer come to France
to see, next year, the Universal Exposition and the Cattle
Show of 1853, 1 can assure him that he will meet with a
hearty welcome from his agricultural brethren there. I again
return my sincere thanks for the very kind and hearty manner
iu which you have received us (loud cheers).

Mr. Baillie, of Mellerataiu, proposed " The Tenantry of
Scotland." Taking them as a body, they had obtained for
themselves a high character throughout the world for their

skill, enterprise, and perseverance ; and whether on the bor-
ders of the silver Tweed, or in the more remote districts of
that which had been called the "land of brown heath and
shaggy wood," he believed that their skill and success in the
cultivation of the soil was, notwithstanding the cold and fickle
climate they had to contend with, unsurpassed in any part of
the civilizsd world (cheers).

Mr. AiTCHisoN, Li.ihope, returned thanks. The farmers
of Scotland, he said, had always been distinguished by their
steady loyalty, tlieir integrity of character, and their patient
endiuatice in adversity. The noble chairman and others had
alluded to our close alliance with France in the war in which
we were embarked; but, while proud of that alliance, he
believed they would not the less be ready to admit that union
at home was power abroad, and that nothing was more cal-
culated to consolidate that union than landlord and tenant
competing for the same honours in the same show-yard, and
celebrating that competition in the same parlour, and ex-
changing sentiments of confidence and respect (applause).
He was sure there was nothing more calculated to produce
congeniality of sentiment and reciprocity of conduct than a
union of this kind, or more calculated to give an impulse to
agricultural improvement, which this Society had of late years
carried on at a rate that br.ffled description, and almost
rebuked comparison. Now that the tenantry of this country
are no longer locked to law- givers but to lease-givers, he
hoped that lease-givers would remember that, if they were the
lords of the soil, it was the tenantry who were the producers
ot its treasures ; that, though the former were the Corinthian
capital of polished society, the latter were the pillars who
supported the fabric, and that thfse pillars, if overburdened
with taxation or by other means, would fall, involving all above
them in a common ruin (applause).

The Dul;e of Roxburghe proposed the health of the Earl
of Dalkeith, whom he complimented for having iu so able a
manner, after so short notice, discharged the duties of the
chair. The toast was received with great cordiality.

The Earl of Dalkeith briefly replied, and thanked the
meeting for the indulgence extended towards him in the
position to which he had been unexpectedly called. He then
briefly proposed the he^dth of the Duke of Roxburghe, to
whom the S jciety owed a deep debt of gratitude for the great
interest he had takan iu its progress, and the exertions he had
made to promote its welfare, especially when occupying the
distinguished oflioe of PresiJent. The toast was also received
with loud applause.

Trie Duke of Roxburghe, in reply, said he could only
ascribe the warm reception the toast had met with to no merits
of his own; he looked on it rather as a recognition of that
office which he had for some years the honour to hold in this
Society. It had always appeared to him that the chief among
the many benefits resulting from the Highland Society was
that there was no member of the community who did not par-
ticipate iu its advantages, and who might, in some degree, not
advance its welfare. This was the point which he had always
endeavoured to keep in view when he was more oflicially con-
nected with this Society ; and it was with feelings of much
pleasure that he looked bsck on the meeting which was held in
this town thirteen years, when he had first the honour of
becoming one of the Vice Presidents of the Society, and re-
flecting on the great progress made by the Society since that
time. They had for many years seen it taking the lead in all
matters of agricultural improvement. They had seen it ever
ready and willing to lend a helping hand to all who wanted its
assistance and advice. They sslw no falling off, as the Show
and the prizes of to-day testified, in its more important ex-

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

223

liibitions; and, from the excellence of its organization, and
the skill, judgment, and order which characterized its manage-
ment, they now found it employed by Government to prepare
a complete report of the agricultural statistics of the country —
an honour which had yet been conferred on no similar body,
and a duty as yet undertaken by no similar society in the
United Kingdom. He trusted the Society would continue
to carry on the work of agricultural improvement ; and
that, while they extended their operations, they w'ould
yet more securely strengthen the basis on which the Society
rested.

Lord Melgund next proposed " The Commercial and
Manufacturing Interests," to which the Mayor replied ; Lord

Blantyre gave " The Directors and Office-bearers of the
Society," which Sir J. S Forbes acknowledged; the Earl of
Dalkeith gave " The Judges of the Show," which was re-
sponded to by Mr. Watson, of Keillor. " The Successful
Competitors" were toasted by Mr. Milne Home; Sir John
Majoribanks proposed " The Committee," on behalf of whom
Sir George Douglas replied; Mr. Robertson, of Ladykirk,
proposed "The Strangers"; Lord Neaves gave " The Pea-
santry," and the proceedings were terminated by Sir John
M'Neill's proposing the health of the Secretary, to whose
zeal and ability he mainly attributed the success of the Show.
Mr. Hall Maxwell replied, and three cheers having been pro-
posed for the Earl of Dalkeith, the meeting sepat-ated.

YORKSHIRE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY.
MEETING AT RIPON.

The Yorkshire show of this year had to suffer
frora a drawback, which it is hardly too much to
say the exercise of a little forethought might have
altogether avoided. It so immediately preceded,
as to clash with the Highland Agricultural So-
ciety's meeting at Berwick; and consequently
many visitors and exhibitors, who under more con-
venient circumstances might have been at both,
had, as it was, to take their choice of one. The
Ripon show, however, scarcely felt this antagonism
so much as might have been expected. Only one,
indeed, of the old supporters of the society deserted
it, in favour of going farther north. This was a very
old friend and near neighbour, Mr. Booth, of War-
laby, who sent his famed short-horns into Scot-
land— with what success our report v/ill speak to.
As it was, he was not much missed at Ripon. By
the aid of Lord Feversham, Mr. Towneley, Mr. H.
Vyner, Mr. Stratton, Mr. Lister Mawe, and others,
a very strong display of the breed once almost
peculiar to Yorkshire was brought together.
Many, in fact, of the prize animals here were the
prize animals at Lincoln, Mr. Towneley's and Mr.
Stratton's cows amongst the most prominent of
those already distinguished. Mr. Towneley, again,
had it all his o',vn way with " Beauty," and some
other really beautiful beasts. It was further gratify-
ing to see Mr. Stratton, who had the courage to face
the Yorkshiremen on their own ground, taking the
first and second premiums in their class with two
cows, similarly placed at Bath, both "highly com-
mended" at Lincoln, and that we spoke of on
their first appearance, as being sure to hold their
own in any company.

The management had little to regret then, in this
one of their chief features, while the show of
stock generally was a very good one ; though per-
haps not equal to what it at times has been. It

would certainly not rank quite up to that we saw
at York last year. The horses, a stronger at-
traction than even the shorthorns, were well re-
presented in every department, and in some were
more than usually excellent. We never remember
to have seen better mares and foals, for instance,
than were to be found in the hunting and coaching
classes. There were many heavy draught mares
too, doing full justice to their county, and one or
two cart fillies yet better still. The weakest part
of this section was unquestionably the stallions,
those for agricultural and coaching purposes being
a little below the average. The hunters— thorough-
bred of course— and roadsters, on the other hand,
were very good; some of the old-fashioned Yorkshire
sort to be found among the latter, and a well known
race-horse or two in the former. The award here
was not made until the day after we left, but having
ourselves placed the handsome and useful old St.
Bennett as first, and The Anchor second, we see no
reason to quarrel with the opinion of the judges on
this, or indeed on any other of their decisions. It is
only right to say that these gentlemen generally were
very liberalin their commendations— of the horses,
shorthorns, and pigs, roore particularly, f o much so
indeed, that we have been compelled to limit our
list to the prizes actually given.

Of pigs, again, there was a very capital collec-
tion, one of the strongest we have ever seen at a
local show. " Large" and " small" breeds, as they
are called. Lord Wenlock's and Mr. Wiley's
amongst them, all run to a great size, the prevail-
ing colour for either being white. There were very
few blacks in the yard ; though it is only right to
add that such as ther- were, showed to great ad-
vantage, and had unquestionably the look of being
the finer bred.

If we say that the exhibition of sheep did some-

2213

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

thing more still for the returning reputation of the
Leicesters, the Southdowns being terribly out-
voted— though, thanks to Lord Walsingham, there
were some good sheep of this sort — with this, we
think we must close our ramble through the Ripon
grounds, and start for Berwick. For the poultry,
we confess we had little time to spare ; " the Leeds
Intellujencer," however, thus kindly supplies the
deficiency: —

" There was a numerous collection of birds, but
on the whole we scarcely think the quality was
equal to some of the preceding shows, whilst in
one or two instances the specimens exhibited suf-
fered from a defective classification, for which most
probably the exhibitors were more to blame than
the committee of management. The Cochin China
and Polish breeds were an indifferent show, both
as regards number of birds and qualitj', and we are
glad to learn that a more healthy tone appears to
be prevailing in respect to poultry, and that the
" rage" for the all but monstrosities, which have re-
cently obtained such fabulous prices, is giving way
to more sober judgment. The best classes were
the Spanish and game birds, of which there were
some beautiful specimens ; and there were some
good geese, turkeys, and ducks of the various
breeds."

We may avail ourselves still further of the
opinion of the local press, touching a subject on
which our own is tolerably well known. However
little supported by others, however unpalatable
such a course may be to some of our friends,
it must still be the duty of this journal to
denounce any evil or absurdity it may find to
exist. In pursuance of this, we have already
shown the palpable contradiction involved in over-
feeding stock for a breeding-show. ^Ye shall not
repeat ourselves here, but turn to evidence on the
Ripon Show — testimony which, if it can be sup-
posed to have any bias, must be in making in
every way the best of the meeting under con-
sideration. The Doncaster Gazette, a paper of de-
servedly high position in the county, speaks out
in this wise : — " The attention of visitors was di-
rected to the short-horned stock, the first prizes
for which were almost entirely monopolized by Mr.
Towneley, the obesity of whose stock was generally
condemned ; although without some degree of fat-
ness, it was admitted, it was all but impossible to
obtain the favourable notice of the judges. Of the
superior quality and general symmetry of the
Towneley herd there can be no question ; but it is
also true that, had many of the other competitors
been as highly fed, they would have shown equal
superiority in the eyes of the adjudicators of the
premiums of the sociely. There can be no ques-
tion that this high degree of fatness is extremely

unprofitable, since the animals become almost
worthless for breeding purposes. One fact in re-
lation to this subject we heard of. An eminent
breeder, whose cattle have taken prizes in all
classes at the royal and sundry provincial shows,
has obtained from seven cows, now nearly seven
years old, the large produce of two calves! More
need not be said of the absurdity of the present
system."

Mr. Towneley, it will be remembered, is the
gentleman who refused to exhibit last year at
Gloucester, in consequence of the attempt there
made to check "the absurdity of this piesent sys-
tem." The YorJcshire Gazette is perhaps even
stronger still, for the conviction here clearly does
not come too easily. In an introduction, written
of course in anticipation of the show, we are as-
sured, that " of late years the system of over-feed-
ing which at one time prevailed has greatly gone
out of vogue." A piece of information which we
only wish our experience of this year alone would
have enabled us to corroborate. By our friend of
the Gazette's own experience, after seeing the ani-
mals, we learn that "the show of cattle was
larger than that at York in 1853, and although the
quality was good, yet we cannot say it v.^as altogether
superior. The prize animals were very admirable
in many essential particulars, but we were sorry to
observe what we thought, when we were writing
some of our introductory remarks, had been done
away with — the practice of over-feeding, which was
too evident not only here, but also among the pigs;
Among the latter, especially, we observed in
several instances a degree of obesity about the
poor creatures which was painful to behold. The
animals were absolutely in suffering from the
enormous weight of fat about them. We hope this
society will not encourage any further progression
in this direction, but rather increased attention to
the make, symmetry, and a tendency to fatten,
which are clearly the points to be observed at these
shows, which are totally different to the great
Smithfield Show at Christmas, and others of a
similar character."

It is not our practice to find fault without good
cause for doing so ; and we look to the Royal Agri-
cultural Society of England to set the local societies
a better example, even though Mr. Towneley's
support may be no longer afforded them.

Amongst the novelties of the implement depart-
ment was a jjrize of £50 for fixed barn- machinery,
" won cleverly" by those very enterprising makers,
Messrs. Clayton and Shuttlewoith; and sundry
premiums for flax and wool offered by the merchant-
men of Leeds. We are glad to hear that Mr. Dav)'^,
whose flax-dressing machine received so much en-
couragement at Lincoln, is nov/ perfecting his in-

THE FARMERS MAGAZINE.

227

vention at Leeck. Another step towards the more
hearty union of the now popular toast, " Agricul-
ture, Manufactures, and Commerce."

We should hope this was set down for the Ripon
dinner, a part of the proceedings that appears
scarcely to have gone off so well as the show itself.
The after-dinner discussion, which at these gather-
ings takes the place of " empty compliment," clearly
broke down. We give what there was said on a
subject that one would have thought might have
had more in it.

In concluding this notice of the Yorkshire Agri-
cultural Society's Meeting for 1854, we must not
omit to record the general feeling of regret ex-
pressed for the loss of the secretary, Mr. Milburn.
It would be difficult to find any man so fully quali-
fied in every respect for the office he held, although
we believe we have good reason to congratulate the
council on their selection of his successor, Mr.
Hannam — a gentleman, who as a practical farmer
and successful writer on agriculture, enjoys many
of those advantages which so distinguished his
lamented predecessor.

LIST OF PRIZES.

The Judges for Cattle. — Mr. Charles Stokes, Kingston-
on-Stowe; Mr. William Hunt, Wortley, Sheffield; and Mr.
T. Crofton, Holywell, Durham.

SHORT-HORNED CATTLE.

Best bull of any age, 2ol., Mr. C. Towneley, Towneley
Park, Burnley; second, lOL, Mr. Henry Vyner, Newby
Hall, Ripon.

For the best yearling bull, 20?., Mr. C. Towneley, Towneley
Park, Burnley; second, 5Z., Lord Eeveraham, Duncombe
Park, Helmsley.

Best bull calf, upwards of five months old, lOZ., Mr. C.
Towneley, Towneley Park, Burnley.

Best cow of any age, iucalf or milk, 15^, Mr. C. Towneley,
Towneley Park, Burnley; second, 51., Earl De Grey, Foun-
tains, Ripon.

Best three-year old cow, in-calf or milk, and having had a
calf, 101., Mr. R. Stratton, Broad Hinton, Swindon ; second,
5^, to ditto.

Best two-year old heifer in calf, 101 , Mr. T. C. Constable,
Burton Constable, Hull; second, 5/., Mr. C. Towneley,
Towneley Park, Burnley.

Best yearling heifer, 101., Mr. Towneley, Towneley Park,
Burnley ; second, 51., Mr. T. C. Constable, Burton Constable,
Hull.

Best heifer calf, upwards of five months old, TL, Mr. C.
Towneley, Towneley Park, Burnley ; second, 31., Mr. G.
Wentworth, WooUey Park, "Wakefield.

CATTLE OF ANY BREED.

Best cow for dairy purposes, 71, Mr. C. Cradock, Hart-
fortb, Richmond.

EXTRA STOCK.

First prize, Mr. A. L. Maynard, Bartoa-le-Moor, Ripon ;
second prize, Mr. H. Vyner, Newby Hall, Ripon.

Judc.es for Subiir and Pigs. — Mr. W. Sauday, Holme
Pierrepont, Notts ; Mr. Valentine Barford, of Foscott,
Towcester ; and Mr. Harwood Mackinder, Laughton
Grange, Spilsby, Lincolnshire.

LE'^CESTER, OR LONG-WOOLLED SHEEP.

Best shearling ram, £20, Mr. W. Abraham, Barnetby-le-
Wold, Brigg ; second, £5, Mr. J. Borton, Barton House,
Malton.

Best ram of any age, £10, and second prize £5, Mr. W.
Abraham, Barnetby-le-Wold, Brigg.

Best pen of five ewes, £7, Mr. G. Walmsley, Rudston,
Bridlington.

Best pen of five shearling wethers, £5, Mr. G. Walmsley,
Rudston, Bridlington.

Best pen of five shearling gimmers, £12, Mr. W. Abraham,
Barnetby-le-Wold, Brigg; second, £5, Mr. G. Walmsley,
Rudston, Bridlington.

SOUTHDOWN SHEEP.

Best shearling ram, £10, Mr, G. S.Foljambe, Osbertou Hall,
Worksop.

Best southdowu ram of any age, £10, Lord Walsingham,
Merton Hall, Thetford.

Best pen of five southdown ewes, £5, Lord Walsingham ,
Merton Hall, Thetford.

BLACK-FACED SCOTCH OR HIGHLAND SHEEP.
Best ram, £5, Mr. R. Pearson, Markenfield Hall, Ripon.
Best pen of five ewes, £1 (the prize offered being £5), Mr.
R. Pearson, Markenfield Hall, Ripon.

Extra Stock — Sheep.
First prize, Mr. J. Borton, Barton House, Malton ; second
prize, Mr. E. Eddison, Ileadingley, Leeds.

PIGS.

Best boar, large breed, £5, Mr. T. M. Richardson, Hibald-
stow, Kirton-iu-Lindsey ; second, £2, Mr. T. Craven, Man-
ningham, Bradford.

Best sow, large breed, in pig or milk, £7, the Earl Fitz-
william, Wentworth House, Rotherham ; second, £2, Mr. P.
Sturdy, Ingleby Mill, Stokesley.

Best boar, small breed, £5, Mr. G. Mangles, Givendale,
Ripon ; second, £2, Mr. W. B. Wainman, Carhead, Skipton.

Best sow, small breed, in pig or milk, £7, and second £2,
Mr. G. Mangles, Givendale, Ripon.

Best three store pigs of the same litter, from four to nine
months old, £5, Mr. S. Wiley, Brandsby, York; second, £2,
Mr. A. Fawkes, Leathley, Otley.

Best sow of any breed, £5, Mr. Thomas Craven, Manning-
ham, Bradford; second, £2, Mr. J. Dean, Oatlands Lodge,
Leeds.

Best boar of any breed, £5, Mr. G. Mangles, Givendale,

Ripon.

Extra Stock— Pigs.

First prize, Mr. G. Mangles ; second prize, Mr. Mark Bar-

roby, Dishforth, Thirsk.

Judges .FOR Horses.— Mr. Edward Davy, of Hagnaby,
Spilsby ; Mr. Charles Garfit, of Tabley Hall, Knutsford ;
and Mr. J.Nainby, jun., Barnoldby-le-beck, Lincolnshire.

HORSES.

For the best stallion for hunters, £10, Mr. H. S. Waring.
Darlington; second, £3, T. Groves, PI umpton Hall, Knaresbro'.

For the best stallion for coach horses, £10, Mr. A. Hairsine,
Holme, Hayton ; second, £3, Mr. T. Denby, Rawcliffe, Selby,

For the best stallion for roadsters, £10, Mr. J. Crompton,

2-28

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

Thoriiholme, Bridlington ; scconci, £3, Mr. G. Long, Kearby,
Wetlierby.

For the beat stallion for agricultural purpoaea, £10, Mr. G.
Chapman, Thorphill, Whixley; second, £3, Mr. J. Stead,
Bishop Thornton, Eipon.

JFor the best stallion for agricultural purposes, to attend at
Ripon on every market-day for the season of 1855, and to
travel in the district, £20, Mr. R. EmBley, Markington, Ripley.

For the best mare and foal for hunting, £7, Mr. T. Swar-
breck, Sowerby, Thirsk.

For the best marc and foal for coaching, £7, Mr, J. Lee,
Thirsk.

For the best roadster mare and foal, £5, Mr. J. T. Robinson,
Lcckby Palace, Thirsk.

For the best mare and foal for agricultural purposes, £7,
Mr. T. Wetherell, Kirkbridge, Darlington.

For the best three years old hunting gelding, £5, Mr. R.
Stockdale, Skerne, Driffield.

For the best three years old hunting filly, £5, Mr. T. Batty,
Wallerthwnite, Ripon.

For the beat three years old coaching gelding, £5, Mr. T.
Wethercll, Kirkbridge, Darlington.

For the best tliree years old coaching fitly, £5, Mr. W.
Morton, Ainderby Quernhow, Thirsk.

For the best two years old coacliing gelding, £5, Mr. B.
Johnson, Frodinghara Bridge, Driffield.

For the best two years old coaching filly, £5, Mr. J. Dods-
worth, Seamer, Stokesley.

For the best three years old hackney gelding or filly, £5,
Mr. II. Vyner, Newby Hall, Ripon.

For the best hackney gelding or mare, not less than four
years old, nor exceeding six, £5, Mr. T. Swarbreck, Sowerby,
Thirsk.

For the best pair of horses of either sex, for agricultural
purposes, worked during the season, £5, Mr. J. Batty, Bishop
Monkton, Ripon.

For the best two years old agricultural gelding or filly, £7,
Mr. J. Bennett, Snargill, Skipton.

For the best yearling gelding or filly for agricultural pur-
poses, £5, Mr. J. Batty, Bishop Monkton, Ripon.

Extra Stock, Horses.
A medal was awarded to Mr. R. Gaunt, Wetherby.

IMPLEMENTS.

Jt'DGES.— Mr. J. Brown, Wrangbrook, Pontefract; Mr. C.
Lambert, Sunk Island, Hull ; Mr. G. Legard, East Thorpe,
Malton ; Mr. Peter Stevenson, Rainton, Thirsk; and Mr.
C. E. Amos, C.E., The Grove, Southwark.

Prizes.

For the best assortment of ploughs, £10 ; and for the best
assortment of harrows, £3 ; Mr. J. Palmer, of Stockton.

For the beat cultivator or scarifier, Messrs. Coleman and
Son, of Chelmsford, £3 .

The prize for the reaping machine was withheld.

For a waggon, Mr. Crosskill, £5.

For a single horse cart, Mr. Banks, of York, £5.

For the best fixed thrashing machine, Messrs. Clayton,
Shuttleworth, and Co., Lincoln, £50.

For the best corn drill, £5 ; for the best turnip drill on the
flat, £5; and for the best turnip drill on the ridge, £5;
Messrs. Hornsby, of Grantham.

For the best manure distributor, Mr. Palmer, £5.

For the best grinding mill, Messrs. Clayton, £5.

For the beat tile machine, Mr. 11. Kearsley, Ripon, £4.

For the best Norwegian harrow, Mr. Kearsley, £2.

For Bentail's broad share plough, Mr. W. Busby, £2.

For the be.st roller mill for corn bruising, &c,, Mr. F. Tur-
ner, Ipswich, £2.

For a mortising machine, Mr. W. Coulson, York, £2.

For a corn dressing machine, Messrs. Hornsby, £2.

For Nicholson's cake breaker, Mr. W. Dove, York, £?.

For a useful collection of articles, Mr. George Meyncll,
Northallerton, £1.

For Howard's horse rake, Mr. W. Busby, £2.

For models for horse shoes, Mr. M. Pratt, Ripon, £2.

For Malthouse's (of Ripon) general purpose drill for small
occupations, £2.

For a chaff cutier, by Turner, Messrs. Burgess and Key,
London, £2.

Medals. — For a traversing web and turnip drill, Mr. P.
Stevenson, jun., of Rainton, Thirsk; Brinsmead's straw shaker,
Mr. Busby ; and washing, wringing, and mangling machine,
Mr. John Patterson, of Beverley.

Highly Commended. — Mr. Crosskill's improved self-
cleansing clod crusher; quadrant regulator in drill, Mr. W.
Moore ; Smith's haymaker, Mr. J. Palmer ; and Hornsby's
portable engine.

Commended. — Mr. Crosskill's clod crusher; Cambridge's
roller, Mr. B. Stead, Barnaley ; single horse cart, Mr. John
Barker, Dunnington, near York; barley homer, Messrs. Lucaa
and Wright, Lincoln ; and Chandler's liquid manure or water
drill, exhibited by Mr. Jesse Kemp, Thurlby Grange, Aldford,
Lincolnshire.

FLAX.
Judges (For Scutched Flax). — Mr. John Wilkinson and Mr.
W. B. Holdsworth, botli of Leeds. (For Flax Straw).—
Mr. H. Ludolf, Leeds ; and Mr. Beilby, Fairfield, York.

For the best specimen of scutched flax, not less weight than
2 cwt., £10, Mr. J. Boyle, Whitebeck Mill, Leeds ; second
ditto, £5, Mr. R. Beilby, Fairfield, York.

For the best specimen of flax straw, not leas than 5 cwt.,
£10, Mr. J. Atkinson, Shaw Mill, Ripley ; second, £5, Mr.
J. Boyle.

LONG WOOL.

For the beat five ewe fleeces, £5, Mr. C. Barrowby, of Bal-
dersby, Thirsk.

For the best five hog fleeces, £5, Mr. J. Batty, Bishop
Monkton, Ripon ; second, £2, Mr. J. Booth, Killcrby, Cat-
terick.

SHORT VroOL.

For the best five ewe fleeces, £5, Lord Wenlock ; second,
£2, Mr. J. Ellison, AUerton House, Knareabro'.

For the best five hog fleeces, £5, Lord Weulock ; second,
£2, Mr. J. Ellison.

THE COUNCIL DINNER

Took place in the Town Hall, when about 140 gentlemen sat
down to an excellent repast. The chair was occupied by Earl
de Grey, the president of the society : and Sir J. V, B. John-
stone, Bart., M.P., was in the vire-chair. On his right, the
chairman was supported by the Earl of Carlisle, the Dean of
Ripon, the Hon. E. Lascelles, and Col. Smyth, M.P. ; and on
his left by H. Morton, Esq. (Mayor), W. Beckett, Esq., M.P.,
and O. Harcourt, Esq.

After the usual loyal toasts, the Earl of Carlisle proposed
the health of the noble Chairman, who duly responded,

Mr. Han nam, the Secretary, then read a list of the prizes
awarded (which will be found elsewhere), after which

The noble Chairman introduced the subject appointed for
diacuBsion at the present meeting, viz., " The best way to ob-

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

229

tain yearly aevvants in agriculUire, tiiiil to obvialc the evils
arising from the present system of hiring without character."
Hia lordship observed tliat these were questions of great and
essential importance connected with tlie agricultural interest
and if any gentleman was prepared to speak on the subject, he
should be happy to hear him.

Mr. RuTSON said, as one of the Council who had issued the
notice alluded to by the noble chiirmaii, he begged to say a
few words, by way of introduction rather than otherwise, with
a view of inducing other gentlemen, who were better acqutiintcd
with the matter than himself, to offer such remarks upon the
subject in hand as might, he hoped, be calculated to lead to a
system of hiring servants very dilYerent to that which at pre-
sent exists (Hear, henr). Now he did not expect that they
would treat the question precisely as it had been laid down in
the notice for discussion ; or, at all events, he would ask tlicm
to treat it not in that limited way in which it might be inter-
preted; that is, not only that masters should be shown the
best way of obtaining agricultural servants, but rather that they
should consider how they might best improve alike the conditiDn
of the farmer and the labourer, but more particularly the con-
dition of the latter (applause). He felt quite sure that to
those gentlemen who had the opportunity of witnessing the
exhibitions which occur in our market-places, he need not say
anything to commend this subject to their serious consideration.
The scenes which take place there, and likewise in the magis-
trates' rooms and elsewhere, seem to be inevitably consequent
upon that kind of irregularity which always occitrs where both
parties are not exactly agreed as to the terms of the agreement
between them; the one expecting, perhaps, too much, and the
other promising or performing too little (Hear, hear). And
after the effects produced by drawing particular attention to
improvements in the construction of farm implements, and to
better systems of breeding and feeding cattle, probably we
cannot be said to be too quick or too precipitate in at least
making an attempt to do something towards advancing the
condition of our fellow-men (applause). He would not occupy
their time longer than to raise the questions, is the time now
come when man is to have a profit from character as well as
from his bodily strength and exertion ? and is the time come
when the master shall have that security which character will
give him ? All he could say was that it must be a joint effort,
or it would be a failure ; they must, landlords, tenants, and all
join, or nothing would be done (applause).

Mr. Crompton said the subject appointed for discussion
ou this occasion was one upon which he had looked with much
interest, from time to time, and probably his conviction of the
importance of the subject had been much strengthened en
account of the numerous cases in which farm labourers were
concerned which had come before him during the last thirty
years, for a considerable portion of which time he had acted as
a magistrate of the West Riding (Hear, hear). He did not
exactly agree with Mr, Kutson, who said they should hire
persons with a characlcr, because that seemed to convey the
impression that the agriculturists generally hired servants
without characters. Now his impression, arad indeed he
might say his practical knowledge, with respect to these
matters, was, that there are but few women of good character
and few men of high character, so far as proficiency and
character go, who are not quickly hired when they are at
liberty, and who seldom attend the public hiringa at all, except
for their own amusement (Hear). This class of servants are so
well known that they generally either retain their former
Bltiiatious, or if they remove, in order to ameliorate their
position, they do not pass away to any great distance from the
neighbourhood in which they were before located. Aa a

general |/rinciplc, it was true, he thought, that good labourers
were seldom without good employment and remunerating
wages. But before the present inconveniences connected with
the hiring of servants could be removed, it appeared to him
that some alteration must be made in the statute law bearing
upon the differences as between master and servant. If the
law were curried into effect by magistrates who would exert
a kindly interference in such cases, they might often have a
very beneficial influence in ameliorating the condition of men
and women servants employed in the agricultural districts.
Cases of great hardship had come before him in hia magis-
terial capacity, on different occasions : for instance, take the
case of a man servant who is hired by some one at a consider-
able distance from the place where he was last in service. Not
knowing what his new situation may be, or what tlie duties he
may be required to perform — knowing nothing either of hia
master or mistress, or of the extent of the farm, and so on, he
finds the situation when he gets there very different, perhaps,
to hia expectations ; the master also may be disappointed, and
when he requires this man to do something which he (the
man) did not suppose or understand he would have to
do, and he refuses, the master says, " I engaged you with
a 'god's-pcuny,' and if you do not do as I require you, I
will summon you before the magistrates, and they will
compel you to obey me." The man very naturally replies,
"You hired rao under false pretences; I find the place very
different to what you said, and, as there is no agreement in
writing, I defy you to do your worst." The man, however, is
eventually summoned before the magistrates, and in some
cases this is a matter of great hardship. (Hear, hear.) He
found, and he had no doubt that many of those whom he now
addressed had also observed, that the same complaints arose,
year after year, from the same farm-houses. Tlie fact is, that
some masters, and also some of their wives, are so bad to
please — (laughter) — that it requires a man to be a very good
servant to please both ; and if he endeavours to do this to the
best of his ability, it docs appear hard that he should at last
be driven to prefer some complaint before the magistrates, who
in many cases cannot mend the matter. (Hear.) As affecting
such cases, he thought the law might undergo some salutary
alterations. A magistrate cannot put aside an agreement,
unless both parties wish it ; and if the man would have the
agreement cancelled, and the master is not willing, the magis-
trates cannot alter or break that agreement ; and all that they
can do is either to tend the man back to his situation or to the
house of correction; and surely it is not desirable to send a
willing agricultural labourer to a place where he must lose,
more or less, bin moral character, if it only be on account of
the fact of his having been in prison (applause.) Under such
circurasfancca, he felt that before they commenced any other
operations with a view to amend these matters, the statute
rauit be altered which regulated the hiring of servants (Hear,
hear). He wished also to say a (ew words in reference to the
bistardy laws, in which tlicre appeared to him to bo one of the
most unjust tlausea that was ev^r enacted. He alluded to the
requirement that a fcnihlc, in order to affdiate a child, must
have her evidence corroborated by a witness. He remarked
how easily it might happen, in some farm-houses, that there
could not possibly be any such witness, and how unsatisfactory
was the accommodation provided for men and women servants
in many instances. The consequence of the law upon this
subject making this requirement is, that even if a magistrate
feels convinced of the justice of the complant made by the
woman, yet he cannot make an order against the putative
father upon her oath alone. On the general question, he was
quite convinced that characlcr would always have its weight.

2'JO

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

aud that those seivants who were known for their good cha-
racters would never have to go far in search of good situations
(Applause).

Mr. Wells, of Booth Ferry, thought that the subject under
discussion was one which materially affected the farmer. He
regarded the question as a farmer's question, principally. He
was well aware that character was, or ought to be, the great
standard as between the farmer and the labourer. Character
should be the essential part of the contract between them
(applause). He had ten or twelve men engaged yearly, and he
had experienced very considerable difficulty in re'erence to the
point first alluded to by Mr. Crompton. With respect to fe-
male servants, there was no difficrdty in the matter. Good
female servants living in good families could always be en-
gaged without going to ariy public statutes. If a woman-
servant had a good character, and she did not stay in her
situation, there were always plenty of farmers who would send
over to inquire into that character, and would engage her
without her having to go to any statutes at all (Hear, hear).
But with regard to boys it was a very different matter, as most
of them seem to like a change, thinking that two years at the
utmost is quite a sufficiently long period to remain in one
situation. Farmers hired their boys at statutes, and it some-
times unfortunately happened that in an agricultural district
two or three statutes were held before Martinmas Day. He

thought that the adoption of the principle of a god's-penny
was of no use whatever. If they gave a servant a god's-
penny, and the contract between them was not in writing, the
person hiring the servant could not compel him to serve out
his time, unless he had actually entered upon his service ; and
servants were now perfectly alive to that point (Hear, hear.)
It had happened to himself that he had hired servants, who
had afterwards gone to other statutes, and who, finding that
they could obtain higher wages, had returned him his god's
penny. He had been served in this way with four or five boys,
and after all the statutes were held he was obliged to fill up
the vacancies with boys without a character, all those who had
a character having been engaged in the meantime. He con-
ceived that this was a matter which lay entirely in the hands
of the farmers, and he felt quite convinced that, if every
farmer would use his influence with his brother farmer, and
refuse to take a servant without a character, and without
having an agreement in writing, the evils now so loudly com-
plained of would be very materially obviated. At the same
time he did not wish that they should take any advantage
of their servants, who should have a counterpart of any
agreement that might be signed between the parties
(applause).

The discussion then terminated, and the noble chairman and
other principal guests withdrew.

DURHAM COUNTY AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY

The thirteenth annual meeting of this Society was held on
Friday, Aug. 4th, at Darlington.

LIST OF PRIZES.
SHORT-HOB,NED CATTLE.

For the best bull, calved since the 1st Jan., 1852, £15, Mr.
Robert Thornton, of Stapleton.

For the best bull calf, not less than 6, nor more than 12
months old, £5, Mr. Thoa. Barber, Sproat'.ey, near Hull.

For the best cow in-milk or calf, having had a calf within the
last 12 months, £5, Mr. George Davison, Rudby, near Yarm ;
second prize £1, Mr. John Emraerson, Over Dinsdale.

For the be«t two-years-old heifer in-calf, £4, J. C. Constable,
Esq., Burton Constable, near Hull ; second prize £1, J. C.
Constable, Esq.

For the best one-year-old heifer, £3, second £1, J. C.
Constable, Esq.

Short-horned cattle belonging to tenant farmers within the
county, whose rental is under £200 per annum, and not
assessed to the income-tax : —

For the best two-years-old heifer, £2, Mr. Jeffrey Bulmer,
jun., of Aislaby Grange ; second prize lOs,, Mr. George
Hutchinson, Woogra, Bishopton.

For the best yearling heifer, £2, and second prize lOs., Mr.
Jeffrey Bulmer, jun., of Aislaby Grange.

LEICESTER OR LONG-WOOLLED SHEEP.
For the best aged ram, £3, Mr. Joseph Simpson, Spofforth
Park, near Wetherby.

For the best shearling ram, £3, and second-best £1, Mr.
J. Simpson.

For the best pen of 5 ewes, £3, Mr. Thomas Crofton, Holly-
well, near Durham.

For the best pen of 5 shearhng gimmers, £2, Mr, J. Wood,
j un., Stanwick Park, Aldbro',

BLACK-FACED SHEEP.

For the best shearling tup, £2, Mr. William Vickers, Snow-
field, Stanhope.

For the best pen of 5 ewes, £2, Mr. J.Wills, Farewell Hall,
near Durham.

For the best pen of 5 shearling gimmers, £2, Mr. William
Yickers, Snowfield, near Stanhope.

PIGS.

For the best boar, large breed, £3, Mr. Peter Sturdy, In-
gleby Mill, Stokesley.

For the best boar, small breed, £3, Marchioness of Ix)ndoa-
derry.

For the best sow, large breed, £2, Mr. Peter Sturdy, Ingleby
Mill, Stokesley.

For the best pig, the property of a cottager, £2, Mr. W-
Braithwaite, Darlington ; second prize £1, Mr. Charles Hardy,
Headlam.

HORSES.

For the best mare for breeding saddle horses, with a foal
at her foot, £3, Mr. C. Pybus, Catterick ; second best, £1,
Mr. J. Jackson, Lackenby, near Redcar.

For the best mare for breeding harness horses, with a foal
at her foot, £3, Mr. James Storey, Seamer ; second best £1,
Mr. J. G. Grace, Sockburn, Darlington.

For the best mare for breeding cart horses, with a foal at
her foot, £3, Mr. T. Wetherell, Kirkbridge ; second best £1,
Mr. Philip Longstaff, Stainton, near Barnardcastle.

For the best three-years-old colt for the field, £2, Mr. John
Emmerson, Over Dinsdale ; second best £l,Mr. Joseph Dent,
Neasham Hall Farm.

For the best three-years-old filly for the field, £2, Mr.
Bryan Harrison, junr.. West Newbiggin ; second best £1, Mr,
John G, Grace, Sockburn.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

231

For the best three-jeais-old colt foi' harness, £2, Mr. T.
Wetherell, Kirkbridge ; second best £1, Mr. John Alkinsou
High Beaumont Hill, Darluigtou.

For the best three-years-old filly for harness, £2, Mr. W.
Mowbray, Newbottle ; second best £1, Mr. John Reed, Park
Hill, Coxhoe.

For the best three-years-old cart colt, £2, Mr. Michael
Raine, Niuistainton, near Bradbury ; second best, £1, Mr.
John Atkinson, High Beaumont Hill.

For the best three-years-old cart filly, £2, Mr. R. Emmerson,
Eryholme.

For the best two-years- old colt for the field, £2, Mr. C.
Pybus, Catterick ; second best, £1, Mr. Robert Thornton, of
Stapleton.

For the best two-yeara-old filly for the field, £2, Mr. Jona-
than Gill, Ayclifl'e Mill.

For the best t\vo-years-old colt for harness, £2, Mr. Raine,

Nuustaintou, near Bradbury ; second best, £1, Mr. John
Harris, Woodside, Darlington.

For the best two-years-old filly for harness, £2, Mr. Thomas
Lawson, Stapleton Grange; second beat, £1, Mr. George
Taylor, Midridge.

For the best two-years-old cart colt, £2, Mr. W. Raine,
Nunstainton, near Bradbury ; second best, £1, Mr. R. Emmer-
son, Eryholme.

For the best two-years-old cart filly, £2, Mr. John Pratt,
SL'orton, bred by Jos. Crookes ; secoud best, £1, Mr. John Em-
merson, Over Dinsdale.

For the best one-year-old cart or filly, £2, Mr. Phillip
Longstaff, Staiuton, near Barnardcastle ; second best, £1,
Messrs. C. and J. Furness, Coxhoe.

Extra Stock, — Mr. R. Thornton's (Stapleton) a three-years-
old Heifer, highly commended. Mr. Allison's (Heighington)
Heifer, Violet, commended.

THE ROYAL AGRICULTUEAL IMPROVEMENT SOCIETY OF IRELAND.

MEETING AT ARMAGH.

This meeting at Armagh has been pronounced
by those well qualified to judge, to be the best the
Agricultural Society of Ireland has yet held. As
one of the wits remarked at the dinner table, where
this satisfactory announcement was made, " it
would be very odd if it was not, for there never
was a meeting of the society so far, but that it was
sure to be the best ever known." Notwithstand-
ing, however, the comment of the gentleman who
thus sacrificed his patriotism to his joke, we are in-
clined to believe the fact is strictly as he has put it.
The Improvement Society of Ireland has gradually
gone on improving ; exciting year by year more in-
terest amongst those for whose especial benefit it
was established, and furnishing in its proceedings
something of an index to the more prosperous con-
dition of the people and the country.

"There is no society in Ireland," said one of
the most practical of the speakers, " that has done
so much for the welfare and improvement of Ire-
land." There is certainly none whose object could
be susceptible of so direct an application, or whose
influence was generally so much required. Ireland
has too long enjoyed the repute of associating the
best land with the worst farmers in the world.
Admitting this charge to be a true one, and there
can be little doubt about it, we naturally proceed
to ask who it is we are to blame ? The answer is
a sufficiently comprehensive one. It is — or it loas —
everybody. The owner of the soil neglected his
duties, oblivious alike of his own well-doing as of
that of his dependants. The occupier but too
closely imitated an indifference so systematically
offered him in the way of example ; while the
labourer, with less inducement still to exert him-

self, just lived on like superiors, mindful only to
trouble himself as little as possible.

The Agricultural Improvement Society has gone
theright way to reform this. It is now laying the pro-
per foundation for that improvement itessays to effect.
It does this by securing the support of those from
whom the initiative must proceed. It is not too
much to say, that thus far the society owes nearly
all its strength and success to the landed gentry of
the country. To their credit must it be recorded,
they not merely enroll their names and send in
their subscriptions, but they give an active support
and practical tone to the business of the meetings
that can only tend to still more practical results.
It is rarely we have seen any meeting more becom-
ingly supported by the gentry of the country I ban
was this, of the Irish Agricultural Societ/ at
Armagh.

The general effect of what they are engaged
upon will no doubt be a work of time. It is true
enough that travelling now from Belfast to the
locality this year selected for the show, the visitor
might find but little to speak to the influence of an
Agricultural Improvement Society. The founda-
tion, we must repeat, however, is being securely
laid. He to whom all others should look for ex-
ample is affording it, and with it he is proffering
assistance that can scarcely fail to tell. The
best stock in the United Kingdom, as the Armagh
prize list and catalogue will show, is now to be
seen in the home-farms of the Irish landlords.
The best systems of cultivation are being in-
troduced by the same means; and if the tenant does
not now make some effort to advance, it will most
assuredly be nobody's fault but his own.

232

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

It is sometimes urged as a complaint, even
against the English Society, that the practical far-
mer is scarcely as distinguished at the different
shows as it would be desirable to see him. The
power of purse is too strong, and it, so, often
happens that he succumbs before it. However
this is to be regretted here, it cannot, from what
we have already said, be a cause for any great com-
plaint in a comparatively young country like the
sister kingdom. The management must have still
heard or felt something of this difficulty ; and thus
at Armagh, for the first time, came a series of
" extra premiums," in addition to Mr. Towneley's
Cup, to be competed for by bond fide tenant far-
mers "not paying more than a hundred a year
rent." The entry in any of these classes, it must
be confessed, was not very numerous j in two or
three sections there was none at all. We cannot
but consider it a laudable endeavour, although
under the present conditions not very likely to
lead to any very great results. The hundred-a-
year limit strikes us as a mistake ; surely far more
good might be expected u'ere the competition ex-
tended generally to bond fide tenant far-mers.

Still with all classes, and it was evinced clearly
enough in these hundred-per-annum holdings,
there is one strong point in favour of agri-
cultural improvement in Ireland. Seldom is it
that less prejudice has been encountered ; or, if
there had been any, never can it have given way
more readily. An exhibition of the Society of Ire-
land has now very little Irish about it. Without
referring to our catalogue, we can scarely recollect
anything but the useful little Kerry cow as peculiar
to the country. The Irishman has gone boldly to
work, and imported his improvements wholesale.
Like the philosophical exquisite, he is easily satis-
fied—with the best of everything. And he knows
where to go for the best, too ; as this gathering
amply proved. The Durham ox, the Leicester
sheep, the Berkshire pig, and the Clydesdale horse
were the great attractions of his show-yard. To
these he has given in his adhesion, as with these
he purposes working out the agricultural improve-
ment of Ireland.

More or less, this must for some time yet be a
matter of importation. Some of these breeds, how-
ever, are already sufficiently established in the
country to furnish the material for a very excellent
display without any direct aid from England or Scot-
land. This was the case in a very capital entry of
Leicester sheep, as well as of Berkshire pigs. A
large majority of the exhibitors were Irishmen,
with, we beheve, chiefly Irish-bred animals. Even
in the Durham or Shorthorn classes, one of the
best shows of the sort ever seen, the home exhi-
bitor was able to make a very good stand. He

had to contend here with the best bred stock in the
world, descended from some of our most re-
nowned herds, and against beasts themselves pro-
nounced the most perfect of their kind. Mr.
Booth, a name going far back in the history of
the shorthorn, brought the prize stock of Lincoln
and Berwick ; his famous bull Windsor, once more
to lead off with. Mr. Towneley, an old friend to this
society, sent the pick of his famous cows — Butter-
fly and Beauty amongst them ; and Mr. Douglas
his celebrated heifer, the first prize of every class
she has been shown in, with two or three young
bulls, whose merits, at least in one instance, were
scarcely as satisfactorily admitted.

High as these entries tended to rank the charac-
ter of the Armagh show, they proportionately less-
ened the opportunities of the resident exhibitors.
The show, to be sure, as thus considered, was very
uneven : with a number of excellent animals, there
were some whose owners must have been more
sanguine or less experienced, than one could have
imagined. The good, though, greatly predomi-
nated, as several well-deserved commendations will
speak to ; while, in two or three instances, " the
award of merit " even went beyond this. Lord
Monck, for example, carried off the first premium
for the two-year-old bull, beating, amongst others,
both Mr. Douglas and Mr. Towneley. It is neverthe-
the only fair to add that the decision here was one of
the very few in which the opinion of the judges
was much canvassed. Popular feeling was certainly
in favour of Mr. Douglas's bull as being the best,
and the white as only second to him. The award,
it will.be seen, was the reverse of this. Messrs.
Booth and Towneley were, we believe, the only ex-
hibitors from England, and Mr. Douglas the only
one from Scotland — at least, in the short-horn
classes. They played it, perhaps, a little too much,
like the bull in the china shop ; although, in
addition to Lord Monck, many other of the home
exhibitors were well distinguished. Sir Arthur
Brooke took the second premium in a numerous
entry of aged bulls, with a very superior beast, bred
by Mr. Chaloner of Kingsfort ; and Mr. Richard-
son of Lisburne, the first prize for yearling heifers,
with another of Mr. Chaloner's stock. Lord
Monck's bull was, indeed, bred by this same gentle-
man, whose herd appears to have a high and in-
creasing reputation here. The many commenda-
tions we have mentioned will say yet more for
the Irish agriculturists' appreciation of the
short-horn. There was an evident desire, more-
over, to retain some of the extraordinary animals
Messrs. Booth and Douglas had brought over,
and many nibbles made for them; but prices
ranged high, and rumours of four or five hundred
a piece were freely circulated. Eight hundred

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

233

guineas, indeed, was said to be " the reserve " on
Mr, Douglas's celebrated heifer "The Rose of
Summer."

Mr. Towneley, it will be observed, has now ap-
propriated the Purcell Challenge Cup, having won
it three years in succession, much to the regret of
the members of the society. This gentleman, how-
ever, has very handsomely offered to present one
to be competed for on similar conditions, in addition
to the Tenant Farmers' Cup, which already bears his
name. An objection to Butterfly, with whom he
won it, as having already obtained a first prize at
these meetings, was of course over-ruled. We had
some hopes, when we first heard of it, that the
over-feeding question was to be brought to an
issue. The objector in such a case might have had
something more to go upon.

With the exception of the Devons, of which there
was a moderate show, both in number and quality,
the other breeds were indifferently represented. Be-
yond one or two prize animals, it was too far from
home for the Kerrys to make up much of a feature ;
while in the larger breeds we counted one Hereford
bull, one Sussex cow, one Sussex heifer, and three
Sussex bulls. The Polled, Angus Galloways and
West Highlanders had not always an entry in each
section into which they were divided ; and though
the Ayrshires were at least by comparison better,
there was anything but a strong display of them.
The manner in which these " other breeds " were
jumbled together was somewhat curious as well as
amusing. First of all, you came on a Sussex or
Hereford bull, then in the next section to the
Devon bulls, and from them in another department
to the Polled Angus and Galloways ; after this,
your catalogue returned to the one Sussex cow,
next introducing you to the Devon cows, and so
on, in both large and small breeds, continually
confusing one variety with another. Surely if it
is worth while putting the Devons and Galloways
into separate classes, it might be as well to keep
them separate, and dispose of one sort, as with the
short-horns, before proceeding to another.

The show of Leicester sheep we have already re-
marked as being very excellent — in its way, quite
worthy of the Durham cattle. Mr. Torr, one of
the judges on this occasion, as well as having a
long experience of the society's meetings, declared
it was the best sheep show he had ever seen in Ire-
land. The Leicesters, a mixed entry of Irish and
Scotch, were remarkable for being not only numer-
ous, but almost all good ; and they were well sup-
ported by the other long wools and Cheviots. The
Southdown, on the other hand, does not seem to
be in such favour : somewhere about half-a-dozen
exhibitors made up the entry of what there was.
Despite the first prize being awarded to the Cum-

berland breed, we can only repeat our approval of
the pigs, as depending mainly on the Berkshires.
We much question whether, for general character, a
uniform display of a very good sort, preserving all
the best points of the kind, there have been many
meetings in any part of the United Kingdom supe-
rior to this. The competition was so close and so
excellent, that a different set of judges would most
probably have, in many instances, made a different
award. The conclusion still would be still equally
satisfactory. If our Irish friends will only go on as
they have done, Irish bacon will soon have a far
better reputation.

We have said the Agricultural Improvement
Society goes to Durham or Yorkshire for its beef,
to Leicester for its mutton, to Berkshire for its
bacon, and to Scotland for its horseflesh. In this
last-mentioned article there are many sorts for
which it need not travel so far from home. These,
however, are not yet, at least, recognized in a prize
hst closely confined to agricultural purposes. To im-
prove here they must certainly take a wider rangje.
With the exception of the Clydesdale mares and a
stallion or two, we never remember to have seen a
more ragged show of cart horses. Cart horses,
indeed, many of them were not; but a weedy
leggy animal, that it would be difficult to say
what they were fit for. By way of encouraging
something better, the Society offered an especial
prize of thirty sovereigns for the best Suffolk; but
neither of the two horses sent for it was consi-
dered of " sufficient merit." Might it not be worth
the while of some of our Suffolk breeders to devote
a week or so and a good horse to our Irish friends?
We fancy the visit might be made to answer in
every way.

A well-arranged poultry show brought together
almost every variety the connoisseur could wish for
—Dorkings, Spanish, Polish, Malays, Hamburgh,
and Cochins; with ducks, geese, and turkeys, to
complete this branch of the catalogue. Butter and
eggs conventionally go together, and the merits of
either were not omitted here. The dairy produce
was very commendable ; the flax exhibition, on the
contrary, scarcely so good as had been expected.
The same may be said of the implement depart-
ment, in which the falling off was the subject of very
general remark. The most direct evidence of this
is that some of our best English makers who were
present at Killarney did not think it worth the ex-
pense to visit Armagh. The Society give their
premiums in medals only. They will have to give
more, and, as they were assured, with a better
effect, if they turn them into money. The prize
list will speak to such manufacturers as were
here — Kansomes, Garretts, Richmond and
Chandler, Cottam and Hallen, and Smyth of

R 2

234

THE FARMER'S MAGAZIiNE.

Peasenhail, airjongst tliein. It would be super-
fluous to go through a list, the different items
in which have already been so fully descanted on at
other meetings. It will be sufficient to say that
" the Lion" of this department was Ransome's
steam engine, to the merits of which the Lord
Lieutenant made especial reference, in the very
elaborated address which his lordship delivered at
the dinner.

We report as much of this as we can well find
room for, and with it some very practical remarks
from Lord Erne and Mr. William Torr. The
latter assured the meeting with much emphasis that
they had not only improved their cattle, but them-
selves ; the breed of landlord and tenant was im-
proving in Ireland, and he could tell them
" the reason why." It is but fair to say that the
meeting received this in the very best humour, and
that Mr. Torr " resumed his seat amidst great
applause." We must add our word of thanks to the
Duke of Leinster as a most able president ; with
not too much to say himself, anticipating, no
doubt, as his Grace did, how well his friends, right
and left, would make up for any deficiency in this
respect. They had, alas ! nearly all, the same com-
mon want of discretion ; and one or two had to be
fairly talked down by their audience before they
came to find " they had trespassed too long upon
your attention." Lord Clancarty, with his "just
one point more;" Lord Claude Hamilton, so emi-
nently distinguished by what The Quarterly terms
his " exuberant action," and so singularly con-
trasted by the sober clerical manner of my Lord
Talbot de Malahide, who followed him. Excellent
as was much of what was here said, how much
more effective would it have been, if only, like Mr.
Kemble's Shakesperian readmgs, " a little com-
pressed."

In conclusion, we have to congratulate the
Council on some manifest improvements on their
arrangements at Killarney. It is true, though, they
are even yet hardly perfect; and the Lincoln
deputation might have profited a little more by
what they saw there. Only one admission, for
instance, to the whole yard, and that by as incon-
venient a " way in" as it was possible to contrive.
The crush was bad enough on the half-crown day;
how they managed after that, we, fortunately for
ourselves, have no experience. Then again, no
dinner tickets for sale in the yard; and, of
course, no return checks for those who
went out in the town to buy them. The only
plan was to request as a special favour that
some official would keep your portrait in his
mind's eye, and " know you when you came back
again." Further than this, the district committee
got to open war with the whole of the Irish press.

by not making up their minds as to when these
gentlemen should be admitted and when they should
not, and thus keeping them for some hours hang-
ing about the doorway. From what we saw,
the Dublin, Belfast, and other papers, went to ex-
traordinary pains to report the meeting day by day,
and we cannot help thinking that their representa-
tives were very indifferently received. It is for-
tunately not necessary for us to seek any courtesies
of this kind ; but, from what we have observed, they
are by no means too gracefully accorded by the
Royal Agricultural Improvement Society of Ire-
land. Some further improvement may be effected
in this, by the example of the Royal Agricultural
Society of England. The council here issue in-
vitations some time before the meeting, enclos-
ing passes, &c., and specifying the time when
the yards will be open, to such of the press
as they think would wish to report their pro-
ceedings. This does away with all chance of in-
convenience and annoyance, and no man gets
soured by sour treatment. It will be to the ad-
vantage of our Irish friends to look to this.

PRIZE LIST.

JUDGES.

Short-horns. — J. Dale Trotter, Bishop Middletown, Dur-
ham ; Thomas Parkinaoiij Leyfields, Notta ; Hugh Wataou,
Keillor, Forfarshire.

Leicesteks, other Long-woolled Sheep, and South-
downs. — Charles Clarke, Aisthorpe, Lincoln; John WeUs,
Booth Ferry, Yorkshire; William Torr, Aylesby Manor,
Lincolnshire.

Sheep (Cheviots or any other Mountain Breed). —
Hugh Watson, Keillor; R. S. Skirving, Camptown, Had-
dington ; Joseph Pacey, Newtown, county Clare.

Swine.— Benjainia Swaffield, Pilsbury, Ashbourne ; Joseph
Pacey.

HoRSES.—Charles Garfitt, Mere Old Hall, Cheshire; R.
S. Skirving.

Poultry. — W. F. Black, Omagh ; Capt. Croker, Ballitore.

Dairy Produce. — Wm. Murray, Lurgan ; John M'Loghliu,
DuDgauuon ; James Wilkin, Armagh.

Flax. — James Brown Boyd, Armagh ; Henry Dickson,
Gilford, county Down ; John Wilson, Armagh.

[We have not been able to obtain any list of the Implement
Judges, but we believe many of the above acted in both
departments.]

CLASS A.— SHORT-HORNS.
For the best bull, calved on or after the 1st January, 1849,

and previous to the 1st January, 1852, 30 sova. — Richard

Booth, Warlaby, Northallerton, England ; bull Windsor.
For the second best, 10 sovs. — Sir Arthur B. Brooke, Bart.,

Colebrooke-park, Brooke-borough ; bull Rate-in-aid.

The bulls shown in this section by Mr. J. Wood, of Castle-
grove, Strathbane, by Lord Dufferin, by Mr. Babington, of

Crevagh, and Mr. J. W. jMaxwell, of Finnebrogue, were

commended.

For the best bull, calved in the year 1852, 20 sovs.—

Charles Towneley, Towneley Park, Burnley; bull Hogarth.
For the second best, 10 sovs. — Sir Frederick W. Heygate,

Barfc., Bellarena, Newtowulimavady ; bull Nimrod.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

235

The bulls shown in this section by Mr. Owen, of Bleasington,
and Mr. C. P. Leslie, M.P., were commended.

For the best bull, calved on or after the Ist January, 1853,
15 sovs. — Lord Viscount Monck, M.P., Charleville, Ennis-
kerry ; bull Cadet.

For the second beat, 5 sovs. — James Douglas, Athelstane-
ford, Drem ; bull Osman.

The bulls shown in this section by Mr. Stanley, Mr.
Clintock, Mr. Marcus, Mr. Causland, and by Mr. Towneley,
were commended.

For the best cow, in calf or in milk, of any age, 15 sovs. —
Charles Towueley, Towneley Park, Burnley; cow Butterfly.

For the second best, 5 sovs. — John Christy, Fort Union,
Adare; cow Peach.

The cow shown in this section by Mr. Anthony Babington,
Creevagh, was commended.

For the best heifer, in calf or in milk, calved in 1851, 15
sovs. — Richard Booth, Warlaby, Northallerton, England;
heifer Bridesmaid.

For the second best, 5 sovs. — Charles Towneley, Towneley
Park, Burnley ; heifer Vestris.

The heifers shown in this section by Mr. Knox, of Jackson-
haU, by Captain Borrowes, of Gilltowu (for two), by Mr.
Rowland Campion, of Old-town (for two), by Lord Caledon
and Lord Lurgan, were commended.

For the best heifer, in calf or in milk, calved iu 1352, 10
sovs. — James Douglas, Athelstaneford, Drem; heifer Rose
of Summer.

For the second best, 5 sovs. — William Charley, Seymour
Hill, Belfast ; heifer Countess of Eglinton.

The heifers shown in this section by Mr. Stanley, Mr.
Cluitock, by Lord Caledon, by Mr. Ball, of Robert's Walls
(for three), and by Colonel Kane Bunbury, were commended.

For the best heifer, calved on or after 1st January, 1853,
10 sovs. — Jonathan Richardson, Glenmore, Lisburn ; heifer
Rosette.

For the second best, 5 sovs. — Lord Lurgau, Brownlow
House, Lurgan ; heifer Myrtle the Fifth.

The heifers shown in this section by Mr. C. J. Knox (for
two), by Mr. Douglas, by the Duke of Manchester, and Mr.
Turner, of Newtown, were commended.

CLASS B.— OTHER LARGE BREEDS.

For the best Hereford or Sussex bull, calved on or after 1st
January, 1849, 10 sovs. — the Earl of Caledon, Caledon Hall,
Caledon ; Sussex bull. Captain Rix.

For the best Devon bull, calved on or after the 1st January,
1849, 10 sovs. — the Earl of Cliarlemont, Marino, Fairview,
Dublin ; Devon bull Chieftain.

For the best polled Angus or Galloway bull, calved on or
after the 1st January, 1849, 10 sovs. — Lord Talbot de Mala-
hide, Malahide Castle, Malahide ; polled Angus bull, Monck.

For the best Hereford or Sussex cow, in-calf or in-milk, of
any age, 5 sovs. — the Earl of Caledon; Sussex cow Lady Rix.

For the best Devon cow, in-calf or in-milk, of any age, 5
sovs. — Robert Quin Alexander, Acton House, Poyntzpass ;
Devon cow Daisy, in-milk.

For the best polled Angus or Galloway cow, in-calf or in
milk, of any age, 5 sovs. — Sir Frederick William Heygate,
Bart., Bellarena, Newtownlimavady ; Galloway cow Maid
of Galloway.

For the best Hereford or Sussex heifer, in-calf or in-milk,
calved on or after the Ist January, 1851, 5 sovs. — the Earl of
Caledon ; Sussex heifer Miss Rix.

For the best Devon heifer, in-calf or in-milk, calved on or
after Ist January, 1851, 5 sovs. — Roger Hall, Narrow Water,
Warrenpoint ; heifer Red Rose.

For the best polled Angus or Galloway heifer, in-calf or
in-milk, calved on or after 1st January, 1851, 5 sovs. —
no entry.

For the best Hereford or Sussex heifer, calved on or after
Ist January, 1853, 3 sovs. — no entry.

For the best Devon heifer, calved on or after lat January,
1853, 3 sovs. — no entry.

For the best polled Angus or Galloway heifer, calved on or
after 1st January, 1853, 3 sovs. — Adam Grierson, Ardsalla,
Fethard, co. Tipperary; Galloway heifer.

CLASS C— SMALL AND MOUNTAIN BREEDS.

For the best Ayrshire bull, calved on or after 1st January,
1849, 5 sovs.— N. W. Roche, M.D., Fermoy, co. Cork.

For the second best, 3 sovs. — Wellesley Preudergaat, Lis-
terlin, New Ross, co. Wexford ; Ayrshire bull London.

For the best West Highland bull, calved on or after 1st
January, 1849, 5 sovs. — no entry.

For the beat Kerry bull, calved on or after lat January,
1849, 5 sovs. — the Earl of Charlemont, Marino, Fairview,
Dublin ; Kerry bull Rory O'More.

For the best Ayrshire cow, in-calf or in-milk, of any age, 4
SOTS. — Alexander Hutcheson, Gosford Farm, Market Hill;
cow Jenny.

For the second best, 2 sovs. — Sir Frederick William Hey-
gate, Bart., Bellarena, Newtownlimavady ; cow Beauty.

For the best West Highland cow, in-calf of milk, of any age,
4 sovs. — Sir Frederick Wm. Heygate, Bart.; Kyloe cow
Highland Mary.

For the best Kerry cow, in-calf or in-milk, of any age, 4
sovs. — the Earl of Charlemont ; cow (in-milk) Lady Eglinton.

For the second beat, 2 sovs. — John L. Gaussen, M.D.,
Crumlin, co. Antrim ; cow Gossip.

For the best Ayrshire heifer, in-calf or in-milk, calved on or
after 1st January, 1851, 3 sovs. — Lord Clermont, Clermont
Park, Dundalk ; heifer (in-milk) Bracelet,

For the second best, 2 sovs. — Lord Clermont ; heifer (in-
milk) Primrose.

For the best West Highland heifer, ia-calf or in-milk,
calved on or after 1st January, 1851, 3 sovs. — Sir Frederick
W. Heygate, Bart.; Kyloe heifer Heather Blossom.

For the best Kerry heifer, in-calf or in-milk, calved on or
after 1st January, 1851, 3 sovs. — Ralph S, Cusack, Bohomer,
St. Douloughs, CO. Dublin ; pure Kerry heifer, in-calf.

For the best lot of two Ayrshire heifers, calved on or after
1st January, 1853, 3 sovs. — W. M'Dowall, Auchteraclure,
Wigtonshire.

For the best lot of two West Highland heifers, calved on or
after 1st January, 1853, 3 sovs. — no entry.

For the best lot of two Kerry heifers, calved on or after
1st January, 1853, 3 sovs. — John L, Gaussen, M.D., Crumlin,
CO. Antrim.

For the best of all the prize bulls exhibited at the show,
the Gold Medal— Richard Booth, Warlaby, Northallerton,
England ; short-horn bull Windsor. To the breeder of the
best prize bull, the medal — Richard Booth.

For the best of all the prize cows or heifers exhibited at the
show, the Gold Medal— Charles Towneley, Towneley Park,
Burnley ; short-horn cow Butterfly. To the breeder of the
best prize cow or heifer, the medal — Charles Towneley.

EXTRA PREMIUMS.
To be competed for by hona fide tenant farmers of Ireland,
not paying more than £100 a-year of rent.
For the best cow, in-calf or in-milk, of any age, 8 soys, —
Thomas Horan, Armagh ; Durham cow Chester.

230

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

For the second best, 5 sov3.— David Hamilton, Lowart,
Glasslough ; short-horned cow Dandy.

For the best heifer, in-calf or in-milk, calved in 1851, 5
sovs.— Joshua Wright, Mullaghmore, Caledon ; short-horned
heifer.

For the second best, 3 sovs. — William Running, Rich-hill ;
heifer, crossed-breed — a Durham bull and Ayrshire cow.

For the best pen of five shearling ewes, 4 sovs. — no award.

For the best pen of five shearling ewes, not exceeding five
years old, 3 sovs.— Joshua Wright, Mullaghmore, Caledon ;
pen of five ewes, having had lambs in 1854.

For the best breeding sow, over eighteen months old, 3
sovs.— Samuel Corrigan, jun,, Fairlawn, Moy; black sow
(half Berkshire).

For the best breeding sow, under eighteen months old, 2
sovs. — no entry.

For the best lot of three breeding sow pigs (same litter),
under ten months, 3 sovs.- — no entry.

THE PURCEL CHALLENGE CUP,

VALUE ONE HUNDRED SOVEREIGNS,

Given by the late Peter Purcell, Esq., for the best animal in
the neat cattle classes, possessing most merit of its kind in the
estimation of the judges, to Charles Towneley, Towneley Park,
Burnley ; short-horn cow Butterfly, calved May 1, 1849, bred
by exhibitor, got by Jeweller, dam Buttercup, by Garrick, g.d.
Burniton Rose, by Expectation, &c.

Second, Richard Booth, Warlaby, Northallerton, with
short-horn heifer Bridesmaid.

THE TOWNELEY CHALLENGE CUP,

VALUE FIFTY SOVEREIGNS,

Presented by Charles Towneley, Esq., Towneley Park, Lan-
cashire, to be competed for exclusively by bona fide Irish
tenant farmers.

For the best lot of three breeding cows or heifers, of any
breed, for general purposes, in-calf or milk, not less than three
years of age, the property of a bona fide teuant farmer— John
Christy, Fort Union, A.dare, for three short-horcs.

CLASS D.— HORSES.

For the best Suffolk Punch stallion, foaled on or after the
1st January, 1847, and previous to the Ist January, 1852, 30
sovs. — not sufficient merit.

For the best cart stallion of auy other breed, foaled on or
after the 1st January, 1847, and previous to the 1st January,
1852, 30 sovs.—Charles Powell Leslie, M.P., Glasslough;
Clydesdale stallion Chance.

For the second best, 10 sovs. — Silvester Rait, Rathmoyle,
Edenderry ; Clydesdale cart stallion Glancer.

The Clydesdale shown in this section by Mr. Shaw, of
Glastry, was highly commended.

For the best cart stallion, of any breed, foaled on or after
the 1st January, 1852, 15 sovs. — Lord Clermont.

For the second best, 10 sovs. — John Ronaldson, Newcastle,
Newtownmountkennedy ; cart stallion Alexander.

For the best stallion in the above sections, the medal —
Charles Powell Leslie, M.P. ; Clydesdale Chance. For the
breeder, the medal — to C. P. Leslie, M.P.

For the best cart mare, in foal or with a foal at her foot, or
having reared a foal in the year 1854, TO sovs. — George Roe,
Nutley, Donnybrook ; Clydesdale cart mare and foal.

For the second best, 5 sovs.— the Earl of Annesley, Castle-
wellan ; black cart mare, aged, with foal at foot.

Three Clydesdale mares, shown by the Earl of Gosford, in
this section, were commended. — one of them highly.

For the best cart filly, foaled in the year 1851, 5 sovs.—
Lord Clermont.

For the second best, 3 sovs. — Nicholas M. Archdall, Ross-
fad, Enniskillen ; Clydesdale filly.

Best cart filly, foaled on or after 1st January, 1852, 5
sovs. — Thomas Butler, Priestown House, Clonee, co. Meath.

For the second best, 3 sovs. — Lord Clermont.

A Clydesdale filly, shown by Mr. Silvester Rait, in this
section, was commended.

The judges stated that the show of brood cart mares was
very good indeed.

CLASS E.-SHEEP.— LEICESTERS.

For the best shearling ram, 15 sovs. — Frederick F. Hamilton,
Windmill Farm, Edenderry.

For the second best, 5 sovs. — Rowland Campion, Oldtown.

The ram shown by Mr. Roberts, of Strokestown, in this
section, was commended.

For the best two-shear ram, 10 sovs. — John La Touche,
Harristown, Branncxtown, Newbridge.

For the second best, 5 sovs. — Rowland Campion, Oldtown,

Mr. La Touche's ram commended.

For the best ram of any other age, not exceeding six years
old, 10 sovs. — Sir Frederick W. Heygate, Bart.

For the second best, 5 sovs. — Rowland Campion.

Lord Duiferin's ram commended.

For the best pen of five shearling ewes, 10 sovs. — Rowland
Campion.

For the second best, 5 soys. — Frederick F. Hamilton.

Mr. La Touche's ewes commended.

For the best pen of five ewes, not exceeding five years old,
10 sovs. — Frederick F. Hamilton.

For the second best, 5 sovs. — Frederick F. Hamilton,

For the best pen of five ewe lambs, 5 sovs. — Frederick F.
Hamilton.

The ewes exhibited in this section by Sir F. Heygate and
Mr. Douglas were especially commended, and the whole class
highly commended.

CLASS F.— OTHER LONG-WOOLLED SHEEP.

For the best shearling ram, 10 sovs. — Silvester Rait,

For the second best, 5 sovs. — N. W. Roche, M.D., Fermoy.

For the best two-shear ram, 8 sovs. — Silvester Rait.

For the second best, 4 sovs. — Silvester Rait.

For the best ram of any other age, not exceeding six years
old, 8 sovs.— N. W. Roche, M.D.

For the second best, 4 sovs. — Frederick F. Hamilton.
For the best pen of five shearling ewes, 6 sovs. — N. W.
Roche, M.D.

For the second best, 3 sovs., Thomas Ball, Robert's Walls.

For the best pen of five ewes, not exceeding five years old,
6 sovs. — David Kerr, Clonia, Edenderry,

For the second best, 3 sovs. — Thomas BaU,

For the best pen of five ewe lambs, four sovs. — David Kerr,

Mr. Thomas Ball's ewes in this section highly commended.

CLASS G.— CHEVIOTS OR ANY OTHER MOUNTAIN
BREED.

For the best ram of any age, not exceeding five years old,
8 sovs. — Marquis of Conyugham, Castle Slane,Slane ; Cheviot
ram.

For the second best, 4 sovs. — Edard M. Barnes, Ardyne-
park, Innellan, by Greenock ; Cheviot ram.

Sir Frederick W. Heygate's, Bart., Cheviot ram highly com-
mended.

For the best pen of five shearling eives, 5 sovs. — Marquis of
Conyngham.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

337

For the second best, 3 sov3. — Marquia of Conyngham.
For the best pen of five ewes, not exceeding five years old,
5 sovs. Marquis of Conyngham.

For the second best, 3 sovs. — Marquis of Conyngham.

CLASS H.— SOUTHDOWNS.

For the best shearlmg ram, 5 sovs. — Thomas Roberts,
Strokestown.

For the best ram of any other age, not exceeding five years
old, 5 sovs. — William Owen, Blesinton, Wicklow.

For the best pen of five shearling ewes, 4 sovs. — Duke of
Manchester, Taudragee.

For the best pen of ewes, not exceeding 'five years old, 4
sovs. — Duke of Manchester, Taudragee.

For the beat ram in Classes E, P, G, H, The Medal— Fre-
derick F. Hamilton, Windmill Farm, 'Edenderry ; shearling
Leicester ram (imported).

To the breeder of the best ram in the same. The Medal —
Frederick F. Hamilton.

CLASS K.— SWINE,

For the best boar under eighteen months, 10 sovs. — John
H. Peart, Bellurgan-park, Bally mascanlon, Co. Louth ; white
Cumberland boar.

For the second best, 5 sovs. — Andrew F. Knox, Urney-park,
Strabane ; Berkshire boar.

Lord Caledon's and Lord Clermont's Berkshire boars com-
mended.

For the best boar over eighteen months and under thirty-six
months old, S sovs.— Sir James M. Stronge, Bart., Tynan
Abbey, Tynan ; Berkshire boar.

For the second best, 4 sovs. — the Earl of Caledon ; Berk-
shire boar.

Lord Lurgan's Berkshire boar MqJdy commended., and Mr.
George Roe's Berkshire boar commended.

For the best boar in the above sections, the Medal — John
H. Peart ; white Cumberland boar.

To the breeder, the Medal— John H. Peart.

For the best breeding sow under eighteen months old, 8 sovs.
— Rev. John Warburton, Kill, county Kildare ; Berkshire sow.

For the second best, 4 sovs. — Hugh Anderson, Bushmills,
county Antrim ; Berkshire sow.

Sir Edward Borough's, Bart., and Mr, A. Warburton's
Berkshire sows commended.

For the best breeding sow over eighteen months old, 5 sovs.
— Sir Frederick W. Heygate, Bart. ; Berkshire sow.

For the second best, 3 sovs. — T. William D. Humphreys,
Milltown House, Strabane; Berkshire sow.

The Earl of Caledon's, and Mr. Harrison's Berkshire
sows commended.

For the best lot of three breeding sow pigs of the same litter>
not more than ten months old, 5 sovs. — Henry L, Prentice,
Caledon ; three Berkshire sows.

For the second best, 3 sovs. — Charles William Hamilton,
Hamwood, Dunboyne ; three breeding sows.

Lord Lurgan's and Mr, Edward Croker's Berkshire sows
liigldy commended.

Class L was for poultry.

CLASS M.— DAIRY PRODUCE.

For the best firkin of butter, 70 lbs. weight, suited for the
English or London Market, and made on the farm of the ex-
hibitor, during the season of 1854, 5 sovs. — Thomas Archbold,
Carnmoney.

Second, 3 sovs. — David Patten, Glasslough.

Third, 2 sovs. — James Farley, Clones.

For the best coopered six butter firkins, suitable for the

English and London market, £1 10s.— John Mackwood, Bel-
fast.

For the best firkin of butter, 70 lbs. weight, suited for the
foreign market, and made on the farm of the exhibitor during
the season of 1854, 5 sov. — J. Waring Fforde, Lurgan,

Second, 3 sovs. — Thomas Archbold.

Third, 2 sovs. — Anthony Babington.

For the best of all the prize butter exhibited at the Show,
The Medal.— J. Waring Fforde.

CLASS N.— FLAX.

For the best bundle, not less than 16 lbs. weight of mill-
scutched flax, being an average sample of at least half an acre-
first prize, 5 sovs. — David Patton,

Second, 3 sovs. — Wm. Shaw, Baudon.

Third, 2 sovs. — John Cargill, Glasslough.

William Roberts, Tynan, new flax, highly commended.

For the best bundle, not less thau 16 lbs. weight, of hand-
scutched flax, being an average sample of the produce of at
least half an acre— first prize, 5 sovs. — Wm. Running, Rich-
hill.

Second, 3 sovs. — Henry L. Prentice, Caledon.

Third, 2 sovs. — David Patton.

CLASS R.— IMPLEMENTS.

The following prizes were given for implements best suited
to the wants and circumstances of Ireland : —

For the implement best calculated to turn up and expose to
the air and frost of winter the deepest furrow, consistent with
regularity of surface, first class medal — Ransomes and Sims,
Ipswich.

For the best instrument for breaking up the subsoil, capable
of being worked by not more than four horses, first class medal
— Robert Gray, Belfast.

For the best grubber or cultivator, to be worked by two or
more horses, first class medal — ^Robert Gray.

For the best drill grubber for green crops, first class medal
— Robert Gray.

For the best constructed seed harrow, first class medal —
Ransomes and Sims.

For the best break harrow, or other implement for pulverzing
the soil, first class medal. No merit.

For the best roller or clod crusher, first class medal —
Richardson and Son, Newcastle-on-Tyne. Robert Gray, Bel-
fast, commended.

For the best horse rake, first class medal— Ransomes and
Sims, commended.

For the best farm cart, first class medal — James M'Connell
Armagh.

For the best drill for sowing turnip seed in one or in two
drills, second class medal. No merit.

For the best drill for sowing turnip seed, &c., with apparatus
for distributing light, portable manures, the gold medal-
James Smith and Sons, Peasenhall.

For the best and cheapest broad-cast manure distributor, first
class medal. No merit.

For the best machine for distributing liquid manure, first
class medal. No merit.

For the best machine for drilling grain — Richard Garrett
Bud Sons, Saxmundliam, commended. James Smyth and Sons,
Peasenhall, commended.

For the best horse-hoe for cleaning between the drills of corn
first class medal. Garrett and Sons commended.

For the best machine for cleaning grain, first class medal.
No merit.

For the best machine for cutting turnips, first class medal —
Ransomes and Sims, Ipswich, Gardener's Cutter, commended.

238

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

For the best chaff-cutting machine, first class medal — Eich-
mond and Chandler, Salford. Ransomes and Sims, com-
mended.

For the best machine for crushing oats, beans, or other grain,
first class medal — Ransomes and Sims.

For the best apparatus for steaming food for cattle, first class
medal — Richmond and Chandler.

For the best and most economical root washer, second class
medal. Richmond and Chandler, commended.

For the best thrashing machine, suitable for large farmers,
and worked by either horse or steam power, the Council gold
medal — Ransomes and Sims.

For the best thrashing machine, suitable for small farmers,
first class medal — Ransomes and Sims.

For the best churn worked by hand, first class medal — Wm.
Hamill, Armagh. Second class medal.

For the best churn, worked by power, first class medal —
Richard Robinson, Belfast.

For the best set of smaller utensils for the dairy, such as
milk coolers, &c., second class medal— Richard Robinson, Bel-
fast.

For the best set of horse-power gearing, economically adapted
to fit machines, churns, thrashing machines, &c., first class
medal — Ransome and Sims.

For the best lot of draining tiles, second class medal —
Beresford and Kelly, Florence Court. St. John BlackettTar-
bert, commended; Sir Arthur Brooke, Bart., Colbrook, com-
mended ; John Wilkin, Caledon, commended.

For the best assortment of hand implements used for the
farm, such as draining tools, spades, sickles, scythes, hoes, rakes,
wheelbarrows, sackholders, &c , &c., first class medal — John
Edmonson and Co., 61, Dame-street, Dnblin.

For the best and most economical set of farm harness, se-
cond class medal — James M'Keuna, Armagh.

For the best set of swing-trees or draught bars, second class
medal — Ransomes and Sims.

EXTRA PREMIUMS.

Ransomes and Sims, four-horse portable steam engine, first
class medal.

Ransomes and Sims, haymaking machine, commended.

Rausomes and Sims, Bruce's manger, commended.

W. and J. Ritchie, Ardee, double mould-board plough, first
class medal.

Robert Gray, turn-wrest plough, first class medal.

Arthur O'Heas, Ballymanab, Armagh, for ingenuity of ar-
rangement in his grubber, first class medal.

Thomas Egar, Portadown, portable steam-engine, com
mended.

THE DINNER

Took place on Wednesday evening, in a pavilion erected for
the occasion at the back of the Tontine Rooms, the
Duke of Leinster in the chair, supported on his right
by his Excellency the Lord Lieutenant, Hon. Colonel Caul-
feild, M.P., Lord Talbot de Malahide, Lord Naas, C. Leslie,
M.P., the Earl of Mayo, and Lord Erne ; on the left by the
High-Sheriff of Armagh, Major-General Thomas, Lord Lurgan,
Lord Claude Hamilton, Lord ]\Ionck, Lord Dungannon, and
Lord Clancarty. There were also present Lords Castlemaine,
Bangor, Dunlo, and Annesley, Count de Sails, Sir R. Bateson,
Sir J. Stronge, &c., &e.

After the usual loyal toasts, the President gave " The health
of his Excellency the Lord Lieutenant, and prosperity to Ire-
land."

In responding, his Excellency said : It is very agreeable t

me to be present at this meeting, and to witness the progress
which agriculture is making in this part of the country.
Much of that progress is, I think, fairly attributed to the
labours of this society, by bringing together large numbers of
the finest animals of every breed, aud by collecting, I am afraid
not quite an equal proportion, but still many of the most ap-
proved implements of husbandry, and also for enabling the
farmer to see and to converse with experienced agriculturists
from any part of the kingdom, and to confer upon the farmer a
benefit, the value of which it would be difficult to overrate-
But, gentlemen, much as has been done in this way, if the
agriculturists of the country wish that it should retain its pre-
sent proud position at the head of the agricultural countries of
the world, they must redouble their exertions. A noble friend
of mine, who is present at this table. Lord Claude Hamilton,
placed in my hands, the other day, a very curious and interest-
ing account of the proceediugs of a French commission
appointed by the government of France, to visit the Great Ex-
hibition of 1851, and afterwards to travel through the most
important agricultural districts of Great Britain and Scotland.
That account shows the attention bestowed by that country
upon all the inventions and discoveries that are made in this
empire. They give detailed descriptions'and drawings of all the
most recent machines and implements that have been applied
to the purposes of agriculture in this country, aud also draw-
ings of the animals of various breeds which they conceive to be
best adapted to the soil and climate of their country. I believe
that other Continental states are travelling in the same
direction, and are now convinced of the importance of increas-
ing the quantity and improving the quality of the produce of
the soil to the utmost possible extent. It must be borne in
mind that in those countries they have the as3is!a\!ce of the
government, and I believe the expense of the commission to
which I have referred was entirely borne by the French
government, and they also defrayed a considerable proportion
of the cost attending on the introduction of new breeds of
cattle, and of carrying into effect various agricultural ex-
periments. Now, such an interference on the part of our
government would be quite hostile to our feelings and wishes ;
but we have a resource in the co-operation and union of agri-
culturists among themselves, and to that resource we must
look, if, as I said before, we would retain the position we now
occupy as the first agricultural country in the world (Hear). I
have adverted to the various ways in which the society has
promoted the cause of agriculture in this country in the same
manner as the sister societies in Scotland and England have
furthered the same cause. But I trust my noble friend near
me, and other gentlemen who are members of the council of
the society, will not suppose I am in any way dictating to
them, if I venture to offer one or two suggestions, which I hope
will be received in the spirit in which they are made
I have heard to-day, for instance, that the quantity of imple-
ments on the ground did not quite answer the expectations
which had been formed. Nothing, I believe, could exceed the
beauty and the perfection of the implements which were ex-
hibited, particularly the one which we all saw with so much
pleasure. I speak of the moveable steam-engine and flax ma-
chine of the Messrs. Ransomes, and some others'; but, on the
whole, I am afraid that the number did not equal the expec-
tations of the members of the society, and I would venture to
offer for your consideration whether additional encouragement
to the makers of the implements might not be given. It
seems to me, at least, worthy of your attention, again, whetlier
a premium for the best cultivated farm should not be offered.
There may he difficulties in the way, of which I know nothing,
but I believe it might have a beneficial effect upon agriculture

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

239

if a premium were given for the best cultivated farm. I say
it with great respect, but I think I have seen in some parts of
this district more rag-weed than is consistent with good farm-
ing, and that some of the gentlemen upon whose ground I have
observed it, would hardly compete with success for such pre-
mium (laughter). I do not know how far it might be practicable
to diffuse more generally, at a cheap rate, information among
the practical farmers, by means of journals, tracts, and other
publications, communicating the results of the experience of
agriculturists in other parts of the kingdom. These are
matters, I think, for the consideration of the council. There
is one point, however, upon which I entertain [a very strong
opinion — namely, how important it is that the society should
exert itself to promote, to the utmost, the cultivation of
flay, so that the Irish manufacturer should not want an
adequate supply of the raw material. I have been informed,
upon what I believe to be good authority, that the cotton-
spinners of Lancashire are now engaged in producing an
article of cotton by which they may or do compete with the
productions of the linen manufacturers of Ireland. Now, gen-
tlemen, I have a very great respect for the cotton-spinners of
Lancashire. I conceive them to be a most intelligent and
valuable body of men, and I am very far from speaking with
jealousy of them, believing as I do that the prosperity of that
great staple trade, the cotton manufacture of England, is moat
important to the welfare of the country. It is, therefore, in no
spirit of hostility to the cotton-spinners that I speak ; but I do
say, that I should be so'-ry to see the extension of that manu-
facture taking place at the expense of the linen manufac-
ture of Ireland. I think, however, that that must inevita-
bly be the case unless the Irish agriculturists provide the
manufacturers with an adequate supply of the raw material at
a reasonable rate. Before I conclude, may I, without touching
upon ground which is most properly prohibited in this assem-
bly, venture to congratulate you upon the state and prospects
of agriculture ? I say not a word about the causes. I look
merely to the state of things ; and I am happy to say that the
accounts from all parts of Ireland respecting the condition of
the three great classes of the country — the owners, the occu-
piers, and the labourers — are most satisfactory. His Excel-
lency concluded by proposing the health of the Duke of
Leinster, briefly acknowledged by the Chairman.

The Earl of Erne, in replying on behalf of the vice-
presidents, said it afforded him pleasure to tell them that the
society was flourishing beyond all expectation ; and he trusted
and hoped it would continue to flourish, for he did believe no
other body of men could prove so conducive to the welfare of
this country; and therefore it became the duty of every man,
let him be rich or poor, gentle or simple, peer or peasant, to
come forward and assist the society in its endeavours to dis-
seminate sound agricultural information. Ireland had been
blessed by Providence with one of the best soils, he believed,
in the world ; but they had not taken advantage of the gift ;
they did not cultivate the land as they ought ; and one of the
reasons, he maintained, why they were such bad agriculturists
was, that their soil was too good. ITiey merely scratched the
soil, without dipping deep into the bosom of the earth. In
England and Scotland the soil was properly tilled, and why
should not Irishmen do the same ? It made him rejoice to see
that upon the whole the society was progressing rapidly in the
estimation of the public, for within the last three years their
numbers were increased by 700. When he advocated its
claims he was frequently replied to in the following terms : —
" It is no USB, for it never comes into Ulster, and it does little
good in Ireland." These were two objections of a grave
character, and he would show how he met them. With

respect to the first, he thought they would agree with him that
good breeding was one of the most essential requisites in a
gentleman, in a beast, or in a society (laughter) ; and he told
the objectors, that the society was too well bred to come into
Ulster without being asked; but if they invited the society, he
thought they would not be refused. With regard to the
second allegation, he replied that this society had, during
thirteen years, done much more than either the Scotch or Eng-
lish society — that was to say, taking into account the amount
of funds at their disposal. They brought over the best animals
from the sister countries, and kept them here for breeding pur-
poses for twelve months ;' and the result was, they were now
able to compete successfully with English and Scotch agri-
culturists. They had also established branch societies, and
had used every exertion to impart good, sound information to
the farmers of this country. It had done much for the welfare
of Ireland.

Mr. William Tore, in acknowledging the complement paid
to "the Judges," congratulated the assembly on the very splen-
did exhibition they had that daywitnessed. He had visited many
exhibitions in connection with their society, but he could with
sincerity say this was by far,as a whole, the best hehad ever wit-
nessed ; and most decidedly it was the best exhibition of sheep
he had ever seen in Ireland. The show of implements at Ar-
magh, however, did not come up to the show of animals ; and he
thought it behoved the society to bestow some little portion of
their funds towards affecting an improvement in this respect ;
for it was his opinion that, instead of giving medals and com-
mendations for implements, a portion of their funds should be
appropriated to giving prizes. It was very well for the ex-
tensive implement manufacturer, who could procure skill and
labour in the market, to get a medal when money was not a
matter of moment to him ; but with the small "manufacturers
a medal did not repay their labour, and a £10 note was more
acceptable than any such token of superiority. He con-
gratulated them on the great improvement which was now
taking place iu agriculture throughout Ireland. By industry
and attention they could excel both England and Scoltand in
agriculture. The minds of the men of Ireland were improving
— the minds of the aristocracy were improving ; and they had
latterly been taught to take care of that land which their an-
cestors had wasted.

The other toasts included " The Memory of Peter Purcell,"
"The Army and Navy," "The Royal Agricultural Improve-
ment Society of Ireland," — "The Highland Society of Scotland,"
" The Royal Agricultural Society of England and the Royal
Dublin Society" (these three Societies thus placed in one
toast), " The Royal Flax Improvement Society," &c., &c. ;
among the speakers to which were Lords Mayo, Clancarty,
Claude Hamilton, Talbot de Malahide, Naas, Monck, and
Lurgan, Col. Caulfeild, M.P,, and Mr. Kirk, M.P.

GLASS BRICKS. — Amongst the more recent inventions
patented by manufacturers, we hear of one by Mr. Summerfield
of the glass works, Birmingham Heath, for what are termed
chromatic glass, or glass-faced grooved bricks. By Mr. Sum-
merfield's process, red or other clay can be combined with
glass, and this will secure durability, entire resistance to mois-
ture, and give an ornamental appearance to the building. The
form of the brick is also, by means of a groove at the side and
end, made so as to add greatly to the strength of the erection,
the joints by this means being brought close together, and the
mortar acts as a dowel! from the shape of the groove. — Tlie
Builder.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

TIPTREE HALL FARMING,

Sir,— As Mr. Mechi lives by agitation, he doubtless
is obliged to you for an expose of his doings : by such
means — in his own language — you " extend his shop-
front, enlarge his advertising sheet, and assist him to
puft' his commodity." What a pity that you do not
follow in the wake of your cotemporaries : your sanity
will be questioned, and a Tiptree bull will anathematize
you. What ! find fault with the leader of the agricul-
tural forces — the FalstafF of Tiptree, over whose body
the agricultural battle has been fought, and who can still
fight a whole hour by Shrewsbury clock, and return to
the field unscathed, and ready for the wordy fray ! and
for you to set up your opinion against the Times and
the Daily Neivs, and the Scotch agriculturists, and great
leading land-agents, gentlemen farmers, Cockney ama-
teurs, whose experience settles Revett wheat to be
barley ; but this is excusable, for the fashion of wear-
ing beards makes all faces alike, and really Mr. Mechi
should order his crops to be shaved for the occasion,
or wait till his Revett's become polled, to allow his
friends the possibility of discriminating rightly.

Well, as Solomon said, there is nothing new under
the sun ; and after all, this wind-and- water affair — this
light meeting — would evaporate and fly off into evan-
escent gases, .did you not give it solidity by your obser-
vations, and thus yield it " a local habitation and a
name ;" and therefore I will, with your permission, touch
the proceedings lightly, and test their substance as I
pass. And first, as to the progress from the luncheon to
dinner : how delightful ! crops growing, sun shining,
and champagne effervescing — how could the scene
be otherwise than exhilarating ? What a stolid cal-
culating being you must have been, not to have
let your reason run riot with the rest I Had you
been reading Senex, who says, somewhere, that "if
you see a multitude of men following intently after
another, that most likely they are wrong; for if
one hound pick up a wrong scent, all the rest will
follow" ? Well, I am not disposed to criticise without
reason. There has been a false scent; possibly by a
drag yearly over the same field ; and who can tell, when
we are going it with noses breast high, and champagne
impelling our speed, but that, after all, the leading
hound may have challenged wrong, and the whole pack
may again be out ?

Well, 'twas nobly done ; and at dinner we found
every one "had kept his place." The great tank,
that absorbs guano by the freight and dead horses by
the score, after all again casts them forth in the shape
of real beef and mutton— real Tiptree beef and mutton
board fed, and regularly streaked with fat and lean to
grace the festive board for the occasion ; in fact, it was
all Tiptree production, excepting the champagne, and
that — allow me to suggest— may next year be derived
from Tiptree rhubarb. But, did you see the imple-
ments ? Some of them retiring, as if to shield their

nakedness, amid the green leaves by which they were
surrounded ; some all bright with colours, red and
yellow, ready for the fray of cutting, thrashing, and
harvesting ; steam puffing, and machinery sufficient for
a county; then, the artificial supply circulating under-
neath, carrying the very life-blood, in the shape of
liquified manure, to the extremities of the farm — how
edifying ! how scientific ! But, after all, it is unfortunate
that this system of cast-iron arteries and veins is, like
our mortal one, subject to derangement ; the larger
vessels become choked, ossification deranges the functions
of the smaller ones, and the disease being deep-seated,
is difiiculfc to reach ; the pulsation at the heart denotes
something wrong ; each pulsation reacting upon the
centre, informs the physician that the circulation will
cease to act unless relieved ; but, as the patient is unable
to describe its feelings, what digging, what boring, what
drilling follows, to remove the obstruction — and then
again all is in full play, and not one of the motley group
that inspect it but consider it as sound and healthy.

The instruction, the example, the field teaching of Mr.
Mechi, the Times says, is above all praise : sometimes
discursive — always entertaining. " Look on this picture
and on that;" see the starved crop of a neighbour, and
see this of mine, that with " Hyperion brow" looks like
a full five quarters to the acre ; and, although Jem
Wood says " this farm grew four quarters per acre
before T took it," that amounts to nothing: Tiptree
Heath is barren — my farm adjoins Tiptree Heath, and
therefore was barren too : my purchase of three thousand
is increased by my improvements to ten or even twelve
thousand pounds. What was let then at a rental of only
20s. is now valued at a rental of 35s. per acre : the
encrease is ^97 per annum, and becomes the return
by way of interest upon upwards of seven thousand
pounds investment ; and, gentlemen, therefore if you
have not got capital to do it yourselves, so long as you
can borrow it at six per cent, you ought not to lose the
chance, for if you only make a calculation you must see
that it will pay you.

" I am quite sure," says Mr. Mechi, " my farming is
profitable." The old watchmen looked serious : they
could not see with double, treble, nay quadrupled outlay,
that the crops were better than others upon any well-
cultivated farm ; many even went so far as to say that
they had seen — indeed, that they had grown — better ;
and even yourself was i-eady to acknowledge that the
wheat and oat crops were particularly good, and the
management of the land and stock more uniform and
judicious than had yet appeared — evident and acknow-
ledged symptoms of improvement. Mr. Mechi had of
late had opportunities of inspecting some better manage-
ment than his own, and, notwithstanding his disposition
to appear original, he imbibes the opinions of others,
and carries them out to some extent.

Well, the round was delightful, the weather charming,

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

241

and the dinner had an additional zest frooa the keen ap-
petites that its guests brought to table; and you, Sir, was
there. Did you find the dinner too good ? or did you
experience it as too corrupting ? It is quite certain it
did not get at your heart through your stomach, or
you would not have eaten the bread and found fault
with the host. No — everyone feels that himself ;
but everyone does not represent a leading agricul-
tural journal ; everyone is not called upon to hold
up the mirror to nature — to reflect back truth in her
own image ; and therefore your duty outstripped your
kindly feeling to have painted the Tiptree doings as the
host would have you paint them : but to shew to the
censors of your judgment that, although your mouth was
open to the good things of the table, that your eyes
were not closed to things passing before you.

I fear, however, I am becoming prosy — have " got an
ingenious method of spinning a tough yarn out ot slen-
der material," and therefore a few brief observations
upon the events at the dinner shall bring it to an end.

The bishop and clergy — the Huxtables, the Smiths,
the Wilkins, and the whole of that distinguished class
who have done so much for and received so much from
agriculture, were replied to by their representative, the
Archdeacon, whose figurative language pourtrayed that
which was then the flourishing Tiptree Farm as a mere
desert twenty years ago, which evinced to the company
that the very reverend personage had never seen the
farm beyond that period at the time when one Foster
occupied it — who said, and as one James Wood confirmed
he grew then an average crop of four quarters of wheat to
the acre upon the whole breadth ; and may I suggest
the possibility of Mr. Mechi never having exceeded that
quantity? Well, I know the worthy Archdeacon too well
to believe that he would ever exaggerate, much less
misrepresent ; he only merely stated what somebody
else had told him, what somebody else had said, what
somebody else had somewhere read — that it had been so.
Then Mr. Sheriff Wire presented himself ; as I am no,
known to this gentleman, I presume Mr. Chig Wire,
who has long figured politically before the world, and
as he was of the London deputation, probably the same
gentleman who so greatly extolled the Revett barley.
He introduced Mr. Mechi as the pioneer of agriculture
and of agricultural development — the man who had
made two blades of grass grow where only one grew
before ; and who had wiped out the original curse of
mankind by eating bread without the least symptom of
sweat upon his brow. What a happy idea — I might say
a glorious conception, to farm so highly as to be able to
eat one's bread so cheerfully and so much at ease ! I
always fancied that the farmer lived by the sweat of
his brow ; indeed I have on sundry occasions, especially
when mowing and pitching barley, felt it must be so.
And I have under such circumstances ejaculated that
the tax upon barley was of all taxes most iniquitous ;
and only wished to have the Chancellor of the Exche-
quer at the same occupation without an allowance of
beer, to convince him it was so. But I am rambling
from my subject ; pray excuse me. Mr. Caird replied
(Mr. Caird, the author of a certain book upon High-

Farming and Great Profits), who grew all even quarters
of corn, and whose expenses and returns came out in
round numbers — a mode very peculiar in the prac-
tice of these leaders of improvement in agricul~
ture. All their crops are free from blight — all their po-
tatoes free from disease ; murrain and pleuro-pneumonia
never aftect their herds, nor are their sheep liable to rot.
Italian re-grass under their management becomes one
of the most prohfic, one of the most magnificent of
crops ; and it had in this very year before that me-
morable 26th of July actually been grown, mown, made,
and carried, to the extent of twenty-five tons of hay
— dry hay from one single acre. The newspaper says,
"(Impossible,)" by which I infer it was doubted, and Mi-.
Caird continued : " It was done on a Scotch acre (Hear) , in
the neighbourhood of Ayr (Impossible)" — I quote cor-
rectly. Well reading this, and also knowing something of
farming, and having never seen or heard of one fourth of
that quantity produced from a single acre English, in any
season previous to the time of this meeting, I have been
led to inquire, and find that an acre Scotch is one-and-a-
quarter acre English, reducing it to the rate of 20 tons of
dry hay per acre English ; assume this at only ^3 per
ton, and what a sum ! Well, we have neither Scotch land
nor Scottish management. We southerns are considered
as knowing little, I might say nothing of management, and
indeed, it is made to appear so ; for even the editor of the
Agricultural Gazette says that Mr. Caird was too abrupt
with his announcement ; it was too overcoming ; in
fact, it was in cant phrase such a stunner, that we could
not recover it. Mr. Caird himself said we might won-
der and be astonished, for it involved a question of from
5 to 50 sheep, and from 5 to 25 tons of hay per acre,
as compared between the soil of Scotland and the soil of
this country.

It would really be satisfactory to learn who is the
farmer that accomplished this astounding fact: his secret
must be worth knowing ; and it would be well worth
while for every one of Mr. Mechi's company to travel
to the extreme limit of the " North Counti'ie," to wit-
ness such a produce ; for even his own doings fall so far
short of any such successful result, that it would more
than overbalance all and everything he has hitherto
brought before us. Two points especially should be
ascertained — how such an enormous bulk could come to
maturity without rotting as it grew ; and how it could be
manufactured into dry hay on the same land three times
before the middle of July. 0 tempora .' 0 mores f

I ask, sir, what is the object that Mr. Mechi seeks to
obtain by such a meeting ? A mere empty popu-
larity ? If, on the other hand, he wishes to take
the lead in agricultural progress and improvement, he
must pursue another course to attain it. The farmers of
this county live sufficiently near to him to become ac-
quainted with his system, and to them who farm for a
livelihood it is a very different matter than his farming
for the purpose of obtaining popularity. When Mr.
Mechi can show the public, especially the agricultural,
that he can produce more corn and meat from a given
area at a less cost, then he will be listened to ; but when
there are hundreds of farmers who can and do obtain a

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

larger produce at little more than half the cost, he must
expect that neither his society will be courted by them nor
their company required by him at his future meetings. All
those who have hitherto, of his school, proclaimed their
ability to farm better than their neighbours, have singu-
larly failed. It must require something more than mere
assertion to convince us, of the south, of the great
achievements of those of the north. We are too far

distant to test them j and although not so credulous as to
gulph down every statement, still we are not so stultified
against rational observations, or sound principles of im-
provement, as to reject them because proposed by
strangers or carried out by amateurs.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,

Agricola.

ROYAL AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY OF ENGLAND.

TRIAL OF IMPLEMENTS AND MACHINES AT LINCOLN.

On entering the Trial-yard of this Great National
Agricultural Society, we were pleased to find the
arrangements for facilitating the objects in view
greatly improved upon ; there also was considerable
advance effected in the dynamometrical testing-
machines used for proving the merits of the steam
engines, both portable and fixed.

We were again met by resounding praises re-
sponding from all the intelHgent and sound practical
mechanics and engineers to Mr. Amos, for the vast
benefit that he had bestowed upon this Society by
the invention of a dynamometer, that gives with
considerable accuracy the amount of power ab-
sorbed by the various machines under trial, per-
forming a given quantity of work; and further, the
amount of power required to work the machine
while running idle. It also shows the irregularities
of the feeding ; and therefore lets the judges see
with certainty how much of the merit is due to the
management, and how much to the machine. As
the manufacturers only sell the machines, the public
have a right to know the best machine minus the
man's help. This tester, or dynamometer, gives
the judges but hght duties, and makes them plea-
sant, as the various manufacturers are allowed to
see for themselves where their faihngs are.

This machine, or dynamometer, is between the
machine under trial and the engine. It is driven
by the engine, and measuring off the power as de-
manded by the machine under trial, at the close of
the trial it gives up a slip of paper, with the whole
power absorbed during the trial registered upon it.

We think that the satisfactory way this dynamo-
meter performs its duty ought to prompt the
Council of the Royal Society to encourage Mr.
Amos to invent and manufacture for them a traction
dynamometer, that the field implements might be
tested as well as the carts, v/aggons, &c., which,
we have no doubt, would soon work a great change
in the amount of power required to pulverize an
acre of land a certain depth, the amount of power
required to drill an acre a given width and depth,
and also to reap it by machinery.

Vast are the improvements that have been
brought about in the portable steam engine since
the introduction of Mr. Amos's invention, and the
great amendments effected in the thrashing machine
since the plan of testing them with a given number
of horse-power measured oflT to them ; while, when
this quantity of power did not vary, the man who
fed the machine had a greater power over the
machine for good or evil ; whereas now, that is
detected, and a diagram of the man's management,
with all its variations, is shown to him registered
in black and white.

We are convinced that, as long as the present
imperfect way of trying and adjudicating upon the
merits of the field machines goes on, we shall have
a continuation of false steps taken, all to be re-
traced hereafter ; whereas, if we had an unerring
proof laid before us of the amount of power re-
quired to draw one implement as compared with
another for the same purpose, we should have rapid
improvement take place ; indeed, when we reflect
what a great difference of power there is absorbed
by machines doing the same amount of work, such
machines being stationary while at work, what
must be the difference that would be brought to
view as taking place in those machines that have to
traverse over the land while performing their work?
We would therefore impress upon the agricultural
public the necessity of their joining the Royal
Agricultural Society of England, and assisting in
bringing the great objects in view to full develop-
ment. We repeat our hope that the Society will
put into the hands of Mr. Amos the bringing out
and manufacturing of a dynamometer for testing
ploughs, scarifiers, harrows, &c.; as also one for
testing drills, carts, waggons, &c. : and we have
confidence he will produce one at Carlisle that will
keep the judges right. As the power is the bulk
of the expense, it is of the greatest importance ;
we are thus convinced that the amount of im-
provement would, in a few years, be so great as to
astonish the implement makers if just at present
exposed to them.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

243

On Saturday, the 15th, we went early to the trial-field,
to witness the ploughs, drills, horse hoes, &c. in compe-
tition for the prizes. We were unfortunate in the wea-
ther, which was showery, the road long and dirty, and
the distance such as we had hoped never to have found
again, after the inconvenience experienced at former
meetings, attributable to the same defect.

Some time after we got to the field, six gentle-
men entered into competition with their ploughs
for the palm of merit for the best plough for deep-
cultivation on strong land ; the soil was a blackish
mould, five inches deep, resting upon strong tenacious
clay, that was cracked by the drought to a great depth.
After drawing lots for places, these six champions
arranged for action in the following order : — Barker,
Busby, Ransome, Howard, Williams, Ball. The word
given was to plough round four times, when the judges
should expect them to be eight inches deep with four
horses in each plough. After the second round, when
they had got to the depth of the soil, the grand tug of
war began. Here, six horses were given each, and Mr.
Barker retired from the field of absurdity. But the
other five champions, like the old Czar, would maintain
the struggle, no matter how many horses or men might
be required to gain the victory. The six horses managed
to get six inches deep the next round : then, at eight
inches deep, they came to a dead lock. Eight horses
were next given, when proceedings went forward by im-
pulses of a few steps at a time, with frequent breakage of
swingletrees, chains, and harness, and the occasional
refusal of the wiser horses to go farther with their im-
possible task. At this time the makers nearly all found
the want of a few more pairs of handles. As resistance
was largely called into play, the masters and men, to
keep the ploughs in the ground, put their whole weight
upon the bodies. Here the first real outbreak of
cries for fair-play took place : some complaining that
Mr. Busby's weight gave him an unfair advantage, while
Mr. Howard loudly called out for only one man to be
allowed to hold the plough ; and the horses, after extra-
ordinary struggling, managed to get the eight inches
deep. Here all were stopped, until the judges could be
with each plough as it proceeded with its ten-inches'
deep furrow. This was an interesting point for Punch's
own reporter ; for we believe that there never was anything
like it attempted by sane agriculturists. However, it must
be done, as the practical wisdom of the Council of the
Society had offered a prize to the plough that would
plough not less than ten inches deep on strong land, the
trial to take place in July while the land is hard and dry.
Mr. Ransome had the advantage of all the rest, as he
had provided proper chains and swingletrees for such an
undertaking ; therefore with him breakage was no barrier
to proceeding, and the horses got on steadier. It was
found that all the rest, from the want of proper tackle,
were at a standstill. Here the judges asked Mr.
Ransome to give the rest a chance of beating
him by lending his tackle for common use,
which was at once granted for the amusement
of the company, and the play began, out of which was
to come wisdom, by eight of the strongest horses in

Lincolnshire being put to Mr. Ransome's plough, with
three light-weights as ploughmen holding with all their
might, and thus proceeding by a few yards at a time-
getting one round at the depth required, making capital
work, considering the circumstances, and occasionally
even ploughing up the drain tiles. Mr. Williams's
plough was next tried, making fair work, considering all
things, but inferior to Ransomes' ; after this Mr. Ball's
went through the same ordeal, doing very well, but the
draught evidently more severe ; then Mr. Howard, whose
plough went through its v« ork in good style, with the
aid of only one ploughman ; last of all Mr. Busby had
his turn, but, notwithstanding his own superior weight
in aid of his man, his plough refused to stick to the
ground, and he was ultimately obliged to give up. It
was now evident that the palm lay between Ransome
and Howard, who, with the judges, agreed to settle the
point on the Monday on the light-land field, where both
made very good work, but Howard's, it was evident to
all, had the best of it. To this firm the prize was
awarded, Messrs. Ransomes' being highly commended.

The general-purpose-plough competition on the strong
land took place on Saturday, there being thirteen started,
when it was evident that none of the ploughs made by
the local makers were equal to the old champions
of former years. On Monday eight out of the thirteen
started on the light land, where the work was all done
well ; but on close inspection, and allowances for ground,
it was quite clearly between Howard and Ransome,
although the difference in favour of either of them over
Busby, Ball, and Williams was only a matter of a few de-
grees as far as the work went. On examining the ploughs,
however, we were of opinion that for general arrange-
ment of the working parts Howard's was the best, and
Ransome's next ; the others are all very good and sim-
ple. The judges having now reduced it between
Howard and Ransome, they were started on the rye
stubble where the reapers had been tried, when, after
testing with the dynamometer, they awarded the prize to
Ransome's, Howard's being highly commended, and
Ball's and Busby's commended.

Four tile machines were tried by the power tester,
making tiles of the same size, when it was found that
Scragg's machine did the work with rather less power,
and was simpler, as also easily managed. To it, therefore,
was awarded the prize.

For the prize for the best cultivator, grubber, and
scarifier there were the following in competition : Cross-
kill, Hart, Coleman, Ransomes (Biddell), Bentall, and
several others who had no chance. The competition was
good, all working well as grubbers ; the palm was to be
decided at the more severe test of scarifying on the rye-
stubble. Thus for the first time have we had this work
tried on legitimately prepared land ; therefore we may
with the greater certainty look upon the winner as the
best implement ; while as it happens to be the lower-
priced implement, it will be more within the grasp of
small, as well as large, farmers. After a thorough trial
the prize was awarded to Mr. Bentall for his scarifier j
Mr. Hart's and Mr. Crosskill's being commended, as we

244

THE FARMER^S MAGAZINE,

thought, for their weight— aad solid, steady motiou
through the soil.

For the best general-purpose drill there was a numer-
ous competition, but it was, after a trial, reduced to
three — Smyth and Son, Garrett, and Hornsby. After
a good trial, the palm of merit was awarded to Mr.
Hornsby ; and Mr. Garrett's highly commended. We
were not a little surprised to see these manure drills
being tested with manure very little removed from
the common farm-yard dung well prepared for use.
This was the climax of unreasonableness, because the
amount expended in the extra labour required to put in
by drill a sufficient quantity to have any good effect is
as much as would buy and apply a quantity of artificial
manure that would give a much greater return.

For the best corn and seed drill prize sevei'al
makers entered the field, but after the trial it was
soon manifest that the competition lay between the three
champions of the row — Smyth, Garrett, and Hornsby ;
all these gentlemen's machines doing their work in the
most satisfactory way ; but as Mr. Hornsby's drill can
be adjusted to accommodate all shapes of unsvenness of
land, to it was awarded the prize. This is truly a master-
piece of simple mechanical contrivances for the work
required, and does great credit to the eminent firm who
have carried away the prize with it on so many occa-
sions. The peculiar advantages of this drill are the corn
or seed box being supported in the centre, which by
means of a screw at one end can be raised or lowered
endways as the drill travels, so that the box is kept quite
level when the drill is travelling on the side of a hill, at
an incline of one foot in six, ensuring as regular a de-
livery of corn or seed as if travelling on perfectly level
ground. It has the patent India-rubber tubes for con-
ducting the seed to the coulters, and also two coulter-
bars to equalize the pressure upon each coulter. The
great superiority of the exhibiters' patent India-rubber
tubes over the usual tins has now been fully proved in
their very extensive use for four years. It is obvious
that the seed is first delivered by the seed-cups with
perfect regularity; and the only possible cause of its
reaching the ground irregularly, or in patches, as is so
frequently the case, is, the very imperfect delivery
afforded by the tins. The mere motion of the drill and
the form of the tins cause the seed to rebound from side
to side until deposited necessarily at varying intervals
in the soil. The adoption of this patent entirely does
away with the numerous tin cups working within each
other, and substitutes simply the continuous and almost
indestructible vulcanized India-rubber tubes, through
which the seed passes, protected completely from both
wind and rain, even in the most boisterous weather,
directly and with unerring regularity into the channels
made by the coulters. To this drill is fitted the exhibi-
ters' improved patent fore-carriage steerage. Before
the introduction of this patent, the fore-carriage steer-
ages in general use required so much power to hold
them, that when the wheels came in contact with a large
clod or stone, even a strong man could not possibly pre-
vent the drill from swerving. This defect is obviated
by the use of the exhibiters' improved patent rack and

piaion, obtaining such a leverage that a strong lad's
command over the drill is so complete that the obstruc-
tion of the v/heels by stones and uneven surfaces has no
effect upon the steerage, which passes over almost im-
perceptibly. Mr. Garrett's drill was highly commended.

For the prize offered for the best drill for small occu-
pations several competitors entered the field ; but, after
full trial, the competition was again between Garrett,
Hornsby, and Smyth ; they all three did their work in
the most satisfactory way, while the simplicity and facility
of altering the arrangements of Mr. Smyth's machine
obtained him the award of the prize.

For the best and most economical seed and ma«
nui-e drill for fiat or ridge work there were only
Messrs. Hornsby and Garrett competing, when, after a
trial, the prize was awarded to Mr. Garrett. This is
a cheap and efficient drill, for the purpose of drilling', in
rows, on either fiat or ridge-ploughed lands, turnip and
mangel wurzel seed, with rapecake dust, guano, Irish
peat charcoal, or any light pulverized manure. The
manure-coulters are fixed to a swing bar ; while those
for seed are attached to levers, to admit of the manure
being buried any depth in the soil, and the seed to be de-
posited directly over it, with a portion of mould between
t'lem, for which forks are provided. It is calculated
for two rows from 20 to 28 inches apart, and three rows
at 16 inches apart ; and the quantities may be delivered
as required — say, for turnips, lib. to 61bs. per acre;
beet seed, 3lbs. to 81bs. per acre. The manure may
be regulated as required, from 2 to 16 bushels per
acre. This drill is adapted for the draft of one horse,
while its simplicity renders it easy of management, and
therefore well adapted for the purposes intended.

For the prize for the best turnip and manure drill
on the flat Messrs. Garrett, Smyth, and Hornsby
competed ; but as the work of the latter, as well as
the arrangements of the machine, were the best, the
award was made without trouble in Mr, Hornsby's
favour. The simplicity of this consists in the India-
rubber tubes for conducting the seed to the ground,
a plain way of supplying the manure, which it will do,
however rough or smooth, in large or small quantities,
and in the double-action levers, by which the manure can
be deposited deep or shallow, and covered up with any
quantity of soil between the manure and seed. This is a
most perfect article.

For the best turnip drill on the ridge there were only
Mr. Garrett's and Mr. Hornsby's, which were tried side
by side, both doing the work well, but the latter without
the help of an attendant, and to it was awarded the prize,
Mr. Garrett's being highly commended.

For the best liquid- manure or water drill prize
there were three competitors — Carson, Garrett, and
Tasker and Fowle. The latter acts as a liquid-manure
or water drill, or can be used (which is the way really
intended) as a dry-manure and water drill ; the water
and manure apparatus being independent of each other,
admits of the application of almost any amount of water
(from one to twelve hogsheads per acre), which can be
varied to any extent, whilst the distribution of the
manure may remain the same ; or, on the other hand,

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

245

the. manure may either be dimiuished or increased, so
that a poor spot may be doubly dressed, whilst the dis-
tribution of the water may continue uniform. 2ndly.
The box is fitted with patent rotary tumblers, which
deliver the manure with the greatest accuracy, every
row, and indeed every plant, receiving the same. It
is adapted for applying bones, superphosphate of lime,
guano, and every kind of concentrated manure, in con-
junction with water, or without, as situation and cir-
cumstances will allow. Srdly. As the water is dis-
charged on the principle of gravitation, no power is em-
ployed in raising it ; and the wear and tear of buckets,
&c., is dispensed with, whilst the simplicity of its con-
struction secures it from getting quickly out of repair :
it is assisted in this respect by the fact, that as the liquid
is not impregnated with the acid properties of the ma-
nure, the rusting and injury of the metai it comes in
contact with is altogether avoided. 4thly. By removing
the manure box and coulters the drill is converted into
a water-cart, capable of holding 100 gallons, which will
be of great utility at those seasons of the year when not
required as a liquid- manure and turnip drill. However,
as this drill was not furnished with the means of acting so
perfectly when drilling thick fluid, the others came more
within the wording of the prize. In the competition
between Mr. Garrett and Mr. Caston, the prize with-
out hesitation was awarded to the latter gentleman for
his improved Chandler's liquid-manure or water drill.
This implement will drill three or four rows of any kind
of thick manure from cattle-sheds, piggeries, &c., or
water mixed with all kinds of artificial manure, in any
quantity varying from three to fifteen hogsheads per
acre, either with mangels, turnips, carrots, &c., at any
distance, or spread liquid manure broadcast. The re-
cent improvements are in the cistern, which is divided
into compartments to suit side-hill land, and the
brackets, which are fixed with bolts and screws to a
cylinder, instead of chains — thereby avoiding the wear
and tear of the cups and chains. For the dry soils and
climates this is an invaluable system of sowing root
crops, as well as late barleys, as it gives a certainty of
an equal braird of the crop sown : it so ensures an equal
and fine sample fitted for malting. In fact, any season
the braird will come up more even, and quickly,
if sown with liquid manure ; the advantages of
which are well known to every intelligent farmer.

For the best manure distributor, there were three com-
petitors— Garrett, Smyth, and Chambers. These ma-
chines were tried, and all three acted very well ; but the
great competition lay between Garrett's and Chambers,
they being able to sow a small quantity (under three bush-
els per acre) in the most perfect manner, however moist
or dry the manure might be ; but as Mr. Chambers' ma-
chine took about seven feet wide, while Garrett's took
only about five, and the price that Chambers' can be pro-
fitably made for being less, there is little difficulty in
agreeing with the judges that Chambers' ought to have
the prize. As this gentleman is a farmer, and will require
to put his machine into the hands of some of our agricul-
tural implement-makers to supply the market, we hope
he will be sure that he entrusts those only who are |

known to make a sound good article. We are the
more desirous this machine should get into good hands
because we think it is one that all farmers must have
for sowing artificial manures, as it is now an estab-
lished fact that there is nothing shortens the life of farm
labourers so much as sowing artificial manure by hand ;
it is therefore the duty of every employer of those manures
to have this machine as a life-preserver, as well as aider
in the produce of the staff of life. From the simplicity,
sound principles of mechanics upon which it is arranged,
the durability of its construction, and perfection of its
action when in operation, we look upon this as one
of the best implements in the yard. The means by which
the quantity of manure is regulated can be suddenly
acted upon, giving the power of instantaneously altering
the quantity sown on one part and another even within a
yard ; thus to thin spots and poor parts may be given
more manure, and to more fertile parts less, with the
utmost certainty and facility, varying from two to more
than forty bushels per acre.

For the best horse-hoe on the flat the competition ran
between Nicholls, Garrett, Smith, and others ; but after
a tolerable tiial, the prize v/as again awarded to Garrett's,
which possesses ail the advantages that are required
by a good horse-hoe for flat work, doing it in the
most perfect way, considering the various motions it
has to go through, to suit inequalities of surface, irregu-
larities in the drills, &c. It is a simple, and at the same
time substantial implement ; and no man who has a
farm tolerably free from stones should be without it.
The horse-hoe of Mr. Smith, of Kettering, is a useful
economical implement, which possesses a simple, easy,
and powerful means of steerage ; and to farmers whose
land has a smooth surface, it is a capital simple, cheap
implement, very easily managed, and acting well as a
thinner of turnips (where drilled on the flat), by crossing
the drills at such an angle as will leave the bunch of
plant in one drill opposite the space left in those on each
side of it.

For the best horse-hoe for thinning or getting out
turnip, mangel wurzel, carrots, &c., on the ridge or flat,
there was but little competition, as all the hoes brought
forward, except Martin's and Huckvale's, were of little
use. We cannot see in Martin's implement enough
different from Huckvale's, to justify its being considered
a separate invention ; after trial it was soon proved that
Huckvale's was the best, as well as the simplest, easiest
managed, and most economical in price, being 60 per
cent, lower — both being made by the eminent firm of
Garrett and Son, who received the prize. We give these
gentlemen great credit for the justice they have done to
the mechanical arrangements used by each of the com-
petitors, to put in action the same principle employed,
to accomplish the object in view. That this implement
may always be available, it would be necessary that the
crops be sown with a liquid manure drill, so as to ensure
a regular braird, thereby preventing the thinner making
bad work by missing the gap or vacant space, and taking
the plants, as might frequently happen where there was
a bad and irregular braird.

For the best reaping machine prize seven com-

246

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

petitors entered the field of rye, which was a good
standing crop, with no grass in the bottom. This we
consider a piece of bad management, as, to make a good
test, there ought to have been sown grass seeds thickly on
one-third of the field, while another third ought to have
been sufficiently manured with some artificial manure, to
have caused it to become laid ; then there would have been
something for the machines to do, similar to what they
would be called upon to perform on every farm in the
kingdom ; and thus the Royal Society's prize would be of
far more use as a promoter of improvement in this most
desirable auxiliary to farming operations, in the time of
scarce labour. However, we give the Society credit for
preparing the land properly, by picking off the stones,
and rolling, also having no high-backed ridges — thus
having the surface as good farmers all have it^ tolerably
smooth, that the machine or scythe may so work as to
leave the stubble short, that the dunghill may be aug-
mented by an increased supply of straw, for littering a
greater quantity of stock, while the increased produce
derived from heavier manuring will provide more food
for such stock.

No. 1 was Mr. Crosskill's, which he calls Bell's ; but
the chief feature of Bell's invention left being the web set
at a high angle. The knife is on M'Cormick's principle,
namely, a serrated cutter, working by a reciprocating
motion. The reel is Ogle's ; and the principle of work-
ing— the horses propelling it before them — a Roman
invention. This machine is greatly superior to Bell's
that took all the prizes last season ; but there is
still too much of it, and it is far too severe upon the
horses. It further requires simplifying, which we have
no doubt will be accomplished by the eminent firm in
whose hands it is.

No. 2 was Mr, Garrett's. This was a combination
of the Hussey and M'Cormick modes of delivery, ac-
complishing a side delivery by the aid of a man. The
cutter was M'Cormick's, and it also had a reel like that
machine — indeed, it was all but M'Cormick's reaper,
substantially and well made.

No. 3 was Dray and Co.'s improved Hussey. In all
its parts this is a Hussey 's machine, with only this dif-
ference— that it is perfectly made in all its mechanical
movements, and the knife has the centre cut out, so that
there is no danger of choking where grass, weeds, or
twitch are present among the crop. This improvement
has reduced the draft at least a third, and the tipping
platform makes the work of delivery almost a sinecure ;
in fact, the only objection that can be raised to this
machine, is the back delivery ; but I'eally we think that
its quality is quite a set-off against the minor dis~
advantages arising therefrom ; and the low price at
which a first-rate machine can be sold is greatly in
favour of this machine, as a farmer's available article.

No. 4, M. Mazier's— a French gentleman. This
possessed a new feature, viz., that of being used to
cut backwards and forwards the same side, with the
horses going by the side of the crop. The arrangement
by which this was accomplished is very clever and
ingenious, and we have no doubt will be brought to act
well ; but it will take a long time, and much care and

trouble, before it is fit to put into the farmer's hands :
it only cuts 2| feet wide at a time.

No. 5 was Bell's original, made by Crosskill. This is
exactly the same as the most improved ones made last
year, which won all the prizes during the season ; but
from its unwieldiness and heavy draft, this machine can
hardly come into general use, as well as from the extreme
difficulty of keeping the cutters in order.

No. 6, Mr. Ransome's automaton I'eaper (which we
thought would never be brought to cut heavy or at all
tangled crops) remainsnot altogether a perfect workman.
It would be useless to say much about this machine, as its
extraordinary ingenuity has brought it to the knowledge
of almost everybody.

No. 7 was Mr. Harkes' rotary reaper. This is on the
same principle as the reaping-machine of the late James
Smith, of Deanston, which he invented in 1811, and
kept improving up to 1834 : in 1835 he was awarded a
prize, we believe, of ^40 for it, at the Ayr Show of the
Highland Society, after one of the most successful
trials it has ever been our lot to witness ; and if Mr.
Harkes had attached his horses with swingletrees to the
end of the pole, and provided a steerage, we are not
sure that this machine would not have surprised the
multitude assembled, as well as the judges.

The land, or rather the crop of rye was divided into
equal parts or lots. After drawing lots for their places,
each reaper was taken one bout, the judges following,
and making their observations, and instructing the ex-
hibitors when the delivery and stubble were as they
liked it.

No. 1, Mr, Crosskill's, went through this ordeal very
well, thus proving that all things must be about right.

No. 2, Mr. Garrett's, cut in capital style; but the
work of delivery for the man was a Herculean task that
few men would be equal to, even if willing. The
delivery was tolerable, but not quite what would please
good farmers.

No. 3, Dray and Co.'s, went through this trial in the
most perfect style, without requiring any adjustment
whatever, and the man could vary the size of the sheaf
to suit the caprice of the most eccentric farmer, let alone
the most varied climate or condition of crop. The
cutting was all that could be desired, and the draught
easy for two horses : it was evident that an impression
was made upon the judges, as well as the lookers-on.

No. 4, the French machine, from the imperfection of
its delivery, was a failure, although the cutting was fair.
The cutter is the same as M'Cormick's.

No. 5, Bell's original, made by Mr. Crosskill; this,
after proceeding a few yards became choked, from two
pair of the cutters being out of order. We were afraid
that before it proceeded far something must give way,
the draught being extreme against the hill.

No. 6, Mr. Ransome's automaton reaper ; this ma-
chine had M'Cormick's serrated cutter and cut well,
but the automaton, though he showed great energy and
exertion, wanted the eye of intelligence to render him
equal to his task.

No. 7, Mr. Harkes' rotary cutter and self delivery ;
this machine was a failure, owing to its being unman-

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

ageable, for want of a means of steerage, which all pro-
pelled machines require. In places where it happened to
go somewhat straight, It cut and laid the crop well, and
we have no doubt but this machine will do some good
work this harvest.

Now, the only reapers that performed like work were
Messrs. Crosskill's, Garrett's, and Dray StCo.'s ; these
three were therefore started to cut their lots out, so as
to test their powers of dispatch — this was the exciting
moment : off they started, Crosskill's reel getting out of
order a little way up the field, then again in some other
part coming down, and turning the scale against him ;
the great draft had also so acted on the horses, that the
sweat ran down their legs.

Garrett and Dray were both done as nearly as possible
together, and some length of time before the other, both
going through their work without a single mistake, and
cutting beautifully, but Dray's making by far the best de-
livery ; we were here quite satisfied that the victory was
in Dray's favour, as the price of his machine is less than
half that of Crosskill's, and forty per cent, cheaper than
Garrett's. Although a machine with self-delivery works
ever so well when in order, yet if at all times liable to
get out of order, we greatly doubt the economy of
giving a large sum of money for them until they
are more perfectly made, and able to combat with the
various difficulties without going out of order. We
therefore quite agree with the judges, that for the pre-
sent, Messrs. Dray and Co.'s reaper is the best fitted
to meet the farmer's requirements, as a safe thing to be
depended upon, as an able assistance in the harvest
field. We are quite convinced that the great cause of
Hussey's reaper getting so much into disgrace, was the
slovenly way in which the first machines were made, and
the imperfect mechanical arrangements by which they
were driven ; and further, the bad material the cutters
were made of, as well as the want of the hole cut out of
the centre of the cutters, which prevents choking when
cutting grass or damp crops.

On the whole, we were rather disappointed with the
reaping machines, as we expected that there would have
been more good self - delivery machines brought out this
season. It has been said there is only one month in the
year to test these machines ; we do not agree with this,
as we know it is quite within any man's power who has
twenty acres of land, to have a trial every day from the
middle of April until the snow-storms come to lay the
crop he has prepared prostrate. For instance, a few acres
of land sown with white turnip, very thick, in the begin-
ning of August would give the first cutting ; then pieces
sown with rye and Italiaa rye grass at different periods,
from August to November, would last until harvest, when
there would be a plenty everywhere. After his turnip
pieces were cut, the land could be sown with oats, the
same with rye land up to the 1st of July, then the rest of
the rye land sown with turnips as before for the following
season ; so that there is no difficulty in implement makers
getting plenty of trials upon green-stuff that is as high
and thick on the land as any grain crops are grown ;
while everybody knows that if a machine will cut,
gather, and deliver such crops in a satisfactory manner,

the same machine will do the work in a ripe crop of
grain, with less danger of getting out of order.

For the prize for the best portable steam engine, not
exceeding eight-horse power, applicable to thrashing or
other agricultural purposes, there was a larger number
of competitors than ever has come forward at any former
exhibition, while the testing of these was more accurate.
Indeed, we now think that these tests are perfect, and
the result of this year's trial is the yet more satisfactory,
from the engines being plain every-day articles, such as
the makers send out to their customers, and not that
absurd class of engines of former years, technically termed
racing engines, with a lot of expensive complicated expan-
sion gear and other appendages quite unfit for the simple
operations of the farm. The judges, after the unsatisfac-
tory result last year, arising from the introduction of ex-
pansion gear, and other expensive appendages, solicited
the council of the society to consult Mr. Amos their
engineer, when the following was enrolled as one of the
conditions for the judges to observe. " In adjudicating
on the merits of the portable steam engines, reference
will be had to the price, simplicity of construction, the
means provided for easy access to the working parts,
economy of fuel, and to the portability of the engine,
without losing sight of the strength required for safety,
and which will be best secured by the free use of
wrought iron instead of cast." This is an extraordinary
stride in the right path, as now the awards of the judges
will be a safe and sure guide to purchasers as to the
merits of each manufacturer, as a maker of this now
universally used auxiliary for the furtherance of the
farmer's operations ; we hope it will soon be available in
the field as well as it now is in the farm-yard ; indeed,
we are very sanguine that next season will be the inaug-
uration of steam, as an economical power for cultivating
the soils of our level lands : here first, and on the hills
afterwards.

The trial of engines went on to the satisfaction of all
parties concerned, who came there to meet and find out
the best man ; for there was none of that dissatisfaction
we heard in former years, of the man at the brake not
doing that which was right, the brakes now being greatly
improved, especially Mr. Balk's, made by Ransomes
and Sims ; this is a perfectly self-acting machine, and
there can be no doubt we shall have all these sorts in
another season.

We consider the quiet result of so many of the makers
who could foresee where they would be placed by this,
the first searching judge, and had so the good sense to
withdraw, a great proof of the value of this tester, giv-
ing the judges an easy task— for out of nineteen only
nine competed, whose performances we have placed in the
following diagram, meritorious as they were considered
by good judges of machinery and engineers, as well as
by ourselves. These engines were all tested with 141bs.
of coals for each horse-power, the engine was nominally
built to work up to, so that it did not matter what num-
ber of horse-power the engine was, the tester being
weighted in proportion ; the result of the time each
engine ran is just the same as it would be if all the
engines were at the same nominal power.

THE FARMER'S MAC4AZINE.

Makers' name.

Hornsby and Son ..
Ean?omes and Sims
Clayton and Kliuttle-

worih

Tu>:ford and Sons.,

Holmes and Son

AUchin and Sons ..

Simpson

Peneston

Crossbill

^•ti »•

S e «
S .= o

- M "

> S °

a a

,2 fe

fH O

?^5^-

:3:i ;..S

tiS

2 '■-

t-s-ai

oj p.

;3 -5 -

3 o'fe

p .^

mins.

tons cv7t

144.

265S6

184. 6

6 2

150.67

24794

164. 5

6 16|

115.

20724

162.

0 19

136.32

176i4

129. 4

8 15

13.5.9'J

13590

lliO.

il 5

1 20.45

11857

93.

11 9i

123.69

88(!3

68.50

16 64

130.62

8260

62.

18 5

135.

840J

62.

18 5

It will be seen by the tabular form annexed that when the
price and quantity of coals consumed by each engine per
year (of three hundred working days of ten hours long)
are considered, there was no chance of the judges making
a mistake, especially as the first four are all first-rate
firms, who use nothing but the best materials, and put
the best and highest order of workmanship into every
thing they make. It is a great proof of the want of
knowledge on this subject, when men can sell engines
that consume more extra coals in five years than would
buy one of the best engines. Here the Royal Society
has shed a light upon the agricultural world, that we
hope will not be put under a bushel, but set on the high-
est eminence, that it may serve as a beacon to warn the
users as well as the buyers of steam-engines.

We did not arrive in time to see anything of the
fixed steam-engine trials; but, from what we could learn,
some of them were too large for the Society's boiler,
and therefore they were not tried. However, there
were about half a dozen tried in a very satisfactory way ;
Messrs. Ransomes and Sims carrying away the first
prize, Dray and Co. the second, and Tuxford & Sons
receiving a commendation. We will ofTer a few remarks
upon these when we pass them in the stand, in our next
impression.

For the best portable thrashing machine, not to ex-
ceed six-horse power, the competition was not large,
but good—much better machines coming forward than
used to be brought into the arena of competition when
they were the only sort in use.

It is rather strange that Mr. Hornsby, who was the
first champion at our shows in this department, should
be still the same. The horse-works of his machine are a
perfect model of what horse-works ought to be ; and the
work done was executed in the most masterly manner.

Ransome and Sims' thrasher did its work well, also
Garrett's. And a compact two-horse machine of Barrett,
Esall, and Andrews performed well for some time ; but
the man then over-fed the machine, therefore the thrash-
ing was not quite clean ; when fed at a proper rate,
this machine did well.

For the best portable combined thrashing-
machine, not exceeding eight -horse power, with
shaker, riddle, and winnower, that will best pre-
pare the corn for the dressing machine, to be driven by

steam — for this prize there was a most numerous com-
petition in thrashing wheat, which was very foul in many
cases.

We were delighted with the arrangements in this de-
partment. As far as the test of the power absorbed by
each machine went, that was accurately delineated by
the pencil of the dynamometer upon the diagram it fur-
nishes of the strain exerted by the power employed
during every moment of time. This was most satisfac-
tory to all parties, as each exhibitor could see for him-
self what amount of power had been absorbed by each
machine while running empty, and what when fully fed,
as well as the variations that took place in the feeding
by the man employed. This was as it should be, fair
and above-board. But it was not so with regard to the
other matters in connection with the recording of how
iar one excelled another ; here were the secrets ; whereas
the thrashing clean, shaking, riddling, and winnowing
records should all be managed openly, so as to
leave it out of the power of competitors to grumble,
or the judges to give them cause. We do hope and
think that this part of the business will be managed upon
such sound and unerring principles, as will give satis-
faction^ even to those whose machines are unfit for use.
We see no difficulty in arriving at this by a little
management. In the first place, a good thrashing
machine, with a shaker and riddle, could be kept going,
thrashing all the straw over again ; a dressing-machine
could be employed to clean all up that was thrashed
out of the straw ; and this weighed and entered in a
column of a table properly arranged for the purpose.
In the second place, there is nothing to prevent all
the caving or riddlings from being riddled over again,
so as to catch every corn that may have escaped, as well
as the chaff; this, when put through the dressing ma-
chine, can be weighed and entered in its proper
column.

In the third place, what is there to prevent the chaff
all being slowly passed through a dressing machine,
which would catch all the grain therein, to be entered
after weighing in its place ; all competitors, at least,
being allowed to know how each other's machine stands.
Then the price, simplicity, durability, and minimum
liability to go out of repair, would, with the power
absorbed, form the sound basis to adjudicate upon, so
as to give more universal satisfaction.

After a test upon the thrashing of wheat, those ma-
chines that performed their work properly were selected
to compete in the more severe test of thrashing barley.
The- prize was awarded to Messrs, Clayton and Shuttle-
worth, Mr, Humphries had a special commendation for
his machine, and Messrs. Garrett and Son had a commen-
dation for theirs.

The prize for the best fixed thrashing machine, not
exceeding eight-horse power, with shaker, riddle, and
winnowers, that best prepare the corn for market, to be
driven by steam, was competed for by Messrs. Garrett
and Messrs. Clayton and Shuttleworth. The prize was,
after trial, awarded to Messrs. Clayton and Shuttle-
worth. These two firms have been the only competi-
tors these two exhibitions, and it has always been a close

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

S40

run ; but the prize still goes, or rather remains, at
Lincoln.

For the best corn-dressing machine there was a large
number of entries, but few competed for the prize.
The competition lay between Dray and Co., Knapp,
and Messrs. Hornsby ; the last firm, as usual, carrying
away the prize.

Knapp's is a capital dressing machine to work after
the combined thrashing machine ; it is not very expe-
ditious, but gets the grain through as fast as a man can
measure it up, making an excellent sample.

Dray and Co.'s is a most useful machine, very expe-
ditious, and making a capital blower by the most simple
alteration. This machine is peculiarly adapted for ex-
portation, as it can be unscrewed into a few parts, and
packed into a small compass.

For the prize for the best grinding mill for breaking
agricultural produce into fine soft meal, a considerable
number competed, but only two managed to perform —
namely, Mr. Hayes, Elton, Huntingdonshire, and
Messrs. Clayton and Shultleworth. It was found that
they both took about the same amount of power to do a
given quantity of work ; but Messrs. Clayton and Shut-
tleworth's could be made to do nearly double the quan-
tity of work in a given time, though it took about double
power to do it. Their mill is also rather better arranged,
the prize therefore was awarded them ; and Mr. Hayes
had a commendation for his mill. This is a useful far-
mers' barn machine.

For the prize for the best linseed and corn crusher
there was a numerous competition ; but none of the
mills could come up to those with a large wheel driving
a small one. Six of these were tried ; and, although to
a common observer they appeared perfectly alike, yet
the result of their trial abundantly proves how far the
original maker still excels the rest. We have arranged
the result of this trial in a tabular form, carrying out
the result so as to show the amount of power each
would take to crush twenty pounds of linseed, well
breaking it, and what to crush seven pounds of oats in
one minute. All these figures are either whole numbers
or decimals.

Linseed.

Oats.

Time
taken

Power

Time

Power

Name of

Total

required
10 crusti

taken
to

Total

required
to bruise

exhibitor.

crush
20lbd.

absorbed

iOlbs. in
one

bruise
7Ib. of

power
absorbed

7]bs. in
one

minute.'

oats.

rainute.t

mill.

rain.

Tumeric Co.

5.0

ii.2Z

46.15

0.83

2.86

2.37

Stanley ...

3.10

17.79

60.48

2.13

3.83

S.13

Woods

7.25

15.07

113.60

1.02

2.48

2.52

Ban somes &

Sims

7.89

IS.38

145.01

1.76

2.73

4.81

QaiTett and

Son

7.45

24.43

172.0

2.80

2.54

5.84

• The lowest number in this column is the best for linseed.
+ The lowest number in this column is the best for oats.

In awarding this prize there was but little trouble, as
Turner's mill takes the least power both for linseed and
oats, thus it easily gained the prize ; but for the second
best there was more difficulty in deciding, Stanley taking
nearly half the power to crush linseed taken by Woods,

while Woods takes less than one-third of the power to
bruise oats.

These roller mills are so well known, that much com-
ment on them is useless ; farther than it is evident that
one man at least does thoroughly understand their manu-
facture.

For the horse or steam power chaff cutter prize
fourteen competed, who all made capital chaff, but vary-
ing a little in length, which renders the adjudication of
this prize no sinecure for judges to satisfy themselves,
it is therefore clearly a difficult matter to satisfy ths ex-
hibiters ; however we think that the judges in this de-
partment strained every point to arrive at a just award,
and we feel convinced they have done so. It would be
superfluous for us to detail the result of every machine
tried, and we shall only give the first and second
performance of the four selected for a second trial,
which we shall also put in a tabulated form, stating
the power required to cut a given quantity of chaff
during two hundred revolutions of the power tester
or dynamometer. We have added a column with the
quantity of chaff a 100 lbs. of power would cut, which
will at once show the superiority of one over the other
in the first trial, and in the second trial we give the
relative amount of power required to cut 100 lbs. of
chaff of the same length by each machine.

First Trial.

StcoKD Trial.

Quan-

Weight

Exhibiters'

Weia;ht
on dy-

Chaff

tity 01
ciiaff
1001b.

indicat
ed by
the dy-

Chaff'
cut ill

inal
power

Price.

name.

namo-

cut.

namo-

ed to

meter.

povTer

meter

tes.

ciitlOO

would as ab-
cut.* sorbed.

Ibs.t

lbs.

£ s.

Cornes , . .

33.5

145.6 7.83

54.5

14.36

14 0

Dray & Co.

(Richmond's)

1-52.3 —

—

9 9

Garrett & Son

100 11.68

63.25

18.46

15 0

Barrett & Co.

91.8

1 lo.ns

50.5

19.90

16 15

* The highest is the best in this case.
+ Here the lowest is best.

In the second trial Richmond's got choked by very careless
and bad feeding, which looked as if done intentionally.

The chaff cut by all these machines was first rate ; but
that cut by Messrs. Garretts' was a degree longer than
the others.

Any one looking at these columns will see at once,
from the result of the two trials, Cornes' takes the prize ;
but in the first trial Richmond and Chandler's had rather
the best of it.

For the best hand power prize a large number
competed, and the merits of several of them was as near
par as possible ; the quality of the chaff was first rate,
but there was a considerable difference in the price of the
machines used. These were all well tested, and as there
were a considerable number little worthy of notice, we
shall only give those who had any pretensions to the
prize. They will be found to be the old standard
makers, all of whom may be trusted for making a good
article. This we shall also put as before, showing the
quantity of chaff 100 lbs. of power would cut when ap-
plied to the dynamometer working each machine.

s 2

260

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

Exbibiters' name.

Power

used on
dyna-
mome-
ter.

Chaff
cut in a
minute

Quantity
of chaff
100 lbs.
on dyna-
mometer
would cut

Price.

lbs.
15
14.5
15
17

18
17

lbs.

16.75

100
96.5
111.6
100

£ s. d.
4 15 0

2. Ransomes & Sim3 ....

3. Smith & Ashby

4. Barrett & EKall

5. Dr.ay & Co. (Rich-

mond's)

4 15 0

5 10 0
5 10 0

7 0 0

S. Garrett & Son

11 65.3

7 0 0

When the length of the chaff cut by each machine is
considered, there is but little difference in their expedi-
tion ; the cliafF of Nos. 1,2, and 4 being as near equal
as possible, while No. 3 was a little longer, Nos. 5
and 6 somewhat shorter ; therefore the decision of adju-
dication had to rest as much on the simplicity, durability;
and cost of the machine as its performance. The prize
was awarded to Mr. Comes, while Ransomes and Sims,
and Barrett, E.xall, and Andrewes, were highly com-
mended; and Dray and Co., with Messrs. Garrett,
commended. We are at a loss to account for Messrs.
Smith and Ashby being neglected. The price, quality,
and performance surely speak well for them.

For the best turnip cutter there was but little compe-
tition, as most of the machines were Gardner's pattern.
The only close competitor was Mr. Pierce's Kealy's uni-
versal cutter ; but the result of the trial proved the old
machine to have gained the prize, while Mr. Pierce was
commended.

For the best machine to reduce roots to pulp there
were many aspirants ; but none who accomplished the
task — some cutting into thin slices, and others mincing.
The latter was the nearest to what was required, and the
best machine for that purpose was oneby Mr. F. Phillips,
of Downham, Suffolk ; the competition running between
this, Kealy's (exhibited by Mr, Pierce), Nye and Gil-
bert's, and Simpson's. These were all tried, and all
performed well in their own way — Phillips' and Nye
and Gilbert's making mince meat, while all the others
cut or grated into very thin slices or shreds. None
of these could be said to meet the meaning of the word
pulp. No award was thought would be given, but the
judges very properly ordered the prize to Mr. Phillips,
for his most ingenious and efficient mincing machine,
being quite a new principle, and tolerably expeditious.

For the best oilcake breaker, for every variety of cake,
the competition lay between Garrett and Son, Hornsby
and Son, and Nicholson. These machines were delayed
in trial for want of any cake of the hardest and thickest
description ; but after a severe trial the prize was awarded
to Messrs. Garrett and Son ; Mr. Nicholson's highly
commended, and Messrs. Hornsby's commended.

The prize for the best churn was perhaps the most
exciting of any, as the competitors, though few, had all
great confidence in their respective knowledge of dairy
management. We just arrived at the scene of action
when the first was done, therefore in time to see the
butter weighed. There were five competitors, four with

the same quantity, namely three quarts of cream each,
and one with one quart. We enter the whole below,
showing the time taken, the quantity of cream, and
the weight of butter as it was weighed, without making
any remarks one way or the other, as the judges did
not agree to a decision on the matter ; but these are
the facts, on which the public may judge for themselves.
We believe they all started at eleven o'clock.

Exhibiters' name.

1. Burgess & Key (Anthony).

2. Dray & Co

3. Ransomes & Sims

4. Handcock

5. Cojran's Glass Churn

Quantity!
of cream

quarts.
3
3
3

Time

each was

done.

h. m. lbs. oz.
11 37 2 11

Quantity
of butter.

11 40
11 54
11 54

2
2

11 58 0 12

1. A shade better colour, than Nos. 2 and 3.
2 and 3. Both rather softer and paler than the above; but
it was only just perceptible.

4. Best colour and quality.

5. This was managed badly, and does not do justice to the
churn.

The whole of the cream was well mixed together before
measuring out to each churn, which renders this a most
interesting trial, inasmuch as it matters but little whe-
ther the immense difference of produce from the same
quantity of the same cream arises from the action of the
churn, or from the proper regulating of the temperature
of the cream at different stages while being churned.
With thisguide, the fact stares us in the face, that there was
within a fraction of one-third of the quantity lost by one
churn, or system, as compared with another. If such
difference were to be general against butter dairies, there
must be fortunes in better management, as well as a vast
national benefit. We hope the Royal Agricultural So-
ciety of England will appoint some more special, varied,
numerous, and widely divided means of arriving at
which is the best churn, as it appears to us there is
not an implement of husbandry that requires more
thoroughly sifting, to find its weak and strong points,
than the churn, and none that has been played with so
much by amateurs. In every land, and under every
climate, this has been a toy for those who have little else
to do. Now it is certain some of these, in their zeal
to do good, must have hit the mark: let the search-
ing inquiry be made to find him out of the heap, that all
may benefit thereby.

We have now done with the trials of implements, and
in conclusion must congratulate the Royal Agricultural
Society of England on the vast improvements that are
accruing from the stimulus given by the various prizes
already offered, and also on the great improvements in
the means of coming at a correct judgment and decision
upon sound principles.

Some of our subscribers may perhaps think that
we have already devoted sufficient space to this de-
partment of the Lincoln Meeting of the Royal Agri-
cultural Society. Beyond, however, the interest
attached to the several trials, and the awards arrived

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

251

at, there is far more yet for the visitor to inspect, and
the chronicler to report on. "When, indeed, we
come to consider the great expense which the dif-
ferent manufacturers must incur in so completely
furnishing their stalls, we can scarcely deny them
that notice which is no less a justice to themselves
than an advantage to the public. In accordance
with this opinion our correspondent will now pro-
ceed to some further detail of the show, selecting,
as he goes, the most useful inventions he may dis-
cover in his round of visits.

As we entered on our scrutiny, at the first Stand
we met Mr. Biggs, of Great Dover-street, South-
wark, Surrey, exhibiting his sheep-dipping appa-
ratus. This is one of the most simple, substantial,
and economical contrivances for the purpose ever pre-
sented to the agricultural public. We hope that the
flockmasters who visited the show took home with (hem
some of his invaluable composition, so that comfort and
quietude may pervade their flocks, the general influence
of which will tend to the increase of both the flesh and
the fleece.

At Stand 2 we met the representatives of Mr. Cross-
kill, of Beverley, so well known as the maker of
clod- crushers, for which he has been long famed. He
has introduced a new principle, which we believe to be an
improvement — that of making this roller self-cleaning ;
but we think, if it were possible, it would be far better
if it were made so as to prevent the adhesion of damp
earth at all, as then there would be no disease, therefore
no cure required. We have no doubt, if this bint is
worth anything, Mr. Crosskill will soon accomplish the
work. On this stand we also saw the usual array of
carts and waggons, of first class shape and make.
We also observed his well known eccentric mill, which
carried away the prize as the best bone mill, and Bell's
reaping machine, with Crosskill's patent improve-
ments. This important addition to the requirements
of an arable farm possesses the self-acting side de-
livery, so much desired. It has been further im-
proved since last year (when it carried ofi^ the whole
of the prizes it competed for) being now nearly two
cwt. lighter ; and although at Lincoln it only re-
ceived a commendation from the judges of the Royal
Agricultural Society, we have since witnessed what it is
capable of doing, having seen it fairly tested on the
Yorkshire Wolds, at Mr. Edmund Riley's, a well-known
farmer at South Dalton, where it certainly performed its
work in so satisfactory a manner as must ere long en-
sure its extensive if not general adoption.

On Stand 3 was M'Neill and Co.'s asphalte for roofing
houses, &c. We have no doubt, should the war con-
tinue, and timber be dear, this will come more into use.
At Stand 4 we found Mr. James Dunlop, of Hadding-
ton, exhibiting his improved cart and plough harness.
The general improvement in this is its lightness, com-
bined with great strength. Another vast improvement
Is the absence of that absurd instrument of torture, the
bearing rein, for which Mr. Dunlop has substituted a
leather rein, about two yards long, fastened to the bridle

by a bright chain about a foot long, while at the loose
end there is a buckle and tongue for fastening the
horses back, if required, at plough.

On Stand 5 Mr. Isaac James, of Cheltenham, exhi-
bited one of the best liquid manure carts we have ever
seen. It is built of timber, securely rabbeted together,
and bound by a strong frame, the whole cart weighing
only about 7 cwt., and holding 250 gallons.

On Stands 6 and 7 Mr. Boulnois, of Baker Street
Bazaar, London, exhibited an assortment of useful emi-
grants' steel mills, with hand flour-dressing machines,
worthy the attention of purchasers, and a capital cheap
steaming apparatus on Stanley's principle.

On Stand 8, Mr. F. J.Wilson, of Cadogan Place,
Chelsea, Middlesex, exhibited his patent wheel barrows.
This plan takes nearly all the weight off the hands of
the user, but at; the same time renders it more diificult
to balance than the old plan of barrow, and is therefore
not so well adapted for wheeling on narrow planks.

On Stand 9, Mr. Gibson, of Newcastle, exhibited a
revolving cultivator, or grubber, which we saw work, but
cannot say that we like it so well as any of the light grub-
bers, such as Tenant's or Howard's ; also oneof Ransome's,
for general purposes, for strong cloddy land an excellent
implement, and worthy the notice of the clay-land farmer.
On Stand 10, Mr. Freeman Roe, 70, Strand, London,
exhibited an hydraulic ram, for raising water; this is an
invaluable apparatus in many situations, as it will raise
water ten feet where there is one foot fall, and so on in
proportion.

On Stand 11, Messrs. Holmes, of Norwich, had
their portable engines and combined thrashing machine,
for which they have been celebrated ; also their drills, of
every variety, well made, simple, and useful ; as well as a
very good manure distributor, that is extensively used and
appreciated.

On Stand 12, Mr. Samuelson, of Banbury, showed
his Gardner's turnip cutter, which is so well known that
we cannot spread its fame much wider, although we
again are called upon to announce another prize is added
to the long list of its achievements. Also, his far and
widely talked- of, but rarely used, digging machine.

On Stand 13, Messrs. Burgess and Key, 103, New-
gate Street, London, exhibited (for the manufacturer,
Mr. Williams, of Bedford) ploughs of all known repute ;
and also his unrivalled harrows.

On Stand 14, Mr. Richard Read, of 35, Regent Cir-
cus, Piccadilly, London, exhibited all kinds and sizes of
water engines, with power to discharge with great force
from 70 gallons per minute, to the light and pretty
syringe, intended for bedewing the rosebud and flowers
that bedeck the greenhouse, wielded by the delicate
hand of a lady.

On Stand 15, Mr. Smith, of Kettering, Northampton-
shire, exhibited his steerage horse hoe, which he has
improved since we last saw it. This is a most useful,
convenient, economical, little implement, worthy the
notice of those who are desirous of being rid of weeds.
On Stand 16, Messrs. Barrett, Exall, and Andrews,
of Reading, Berks, exhibited a large collection of en-
gines, machines, and implements, among which there

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

was a very useful barley aveller or hummeller, simple,
convenient, and effectual in its working. Likewise a
horse rake, with a capital contrivance for insuring its
clearing itself effectually; also a simple, neat, strong,
durable, and convenient circular- saw bench, moderate
in price.

On Stand 18, Mr. John Whitehead, of Preston, Lan-
cashire, showed his well-known brick and tile machines,
that have so frequently taken the prizes of this and other
societies, as well as spread the blessings of drainage
through many a wet and marshy district.

On Stand 19, Mr. James Hayes exhibited his mills.
These are useful little grinding mills, Derbyshire Peak
stones, and do their work very well indeed, for which
they were commended by the judges.

On Stand 20, Marie Pierre Amaranthe Ferdinand
Mazier, of L' Aigle, France, exhibited a reaping machine.
This is more as a model than a machine for the farmer.
It only cuts two and a half feet wide; the cutter is serrated,
with a reciprocating motion. The novelty is that the
machinery is in a small, boxed-up, two-wheeled cart, at
the back of which, and in the centre thereof, the bar with
the fingers or guards and the knife are fixed upon a
joint, in the centre of which revolves the crank that
gives motion to the cutters. This allows of the said bar
being turned over from one side to the other, thus ena-
bling it to come back on the same side that it went up.
There is merit in the principle, but we fear it will never
come to anything practically useful ; the self-delivery
used was a complete failure.

On Stand 21, Messrs. Garrett and Son, Leiston
Works, Saxmundham, Suffolk, exhibited, as usual, im-
plements, machines, and engines of every class and sort
required on a farm, with nearly the whole of which they
have from time to time taken this Society's prizes ; in
fact, as we walked along his stand it appeared as if there
had been a shower of prizes and high commendations
falling there the day before. Messrs. Garrett are the
men whose enterprize has brought Huckvale's horse hoe
and turnip thinner prominently before the farmer, so
that in those times of scarcity of labour this is the
farmer's refuge that will save many a turnip crop from
damage.

On Stand 23, Mr. William Pacey, of Lincoln, exhibited
a complete fit out of three sets of harrows, made of
wood and steel teeth. These are made on the i-homboi-
dal principle, the lightest set covering eight feet and a
half and the heaviest eleven feet, that is, they finish that
width ; for although the harrow is wider by two feet, it
has to overlap that width to make equal work.

On Stand 24, Mr. William Pierce, of Cannon Housr
Queen-street, Cheapside, London, exhibited an extensive
collection of implements of the best description, from
the best makers.

On Stand 28 Messrs. Braggins and Chester, of Ban-
bury, Oxfordshire, exhibited a large assortment of well
made turnip cutters on Gardner's principle, and a
useful oilcake breaker.

On Stand 29 Mr. Hugh Carson, of Warminster,
Wiltshire, exhibited Chandler's liquid manure drill
which received the prize j also hia chaff cutters, which

took a tolerable position at the trial, and are useful
stable appendages ; as well as Moody's turnip cutter, a
useful cutter for slicing roots very thin, to mix with chaff.
On Stand 30 Mr. John Cook, of Eagle, Nottingham,
exhibited samples of the native breed of carts and
waggons, which we feel sure his good sense will cause
him to reduce in weight and lumber, as well as improve
in shape and fashion, the next time he exhibits.

On Stand 31 Mr. Robert Hunt, of Earles Colne,
Essex, exhibited an improved engine for drawing or
separating clover and trefoil seed from the husk. This
is a capital machine for the purpose, being more ex-
peditious than anything of the kind we have seen. It
consists of the hollow frustrum of a cone, made of cast
iron : within this is a drum of the same shape, which, by
being drawn towards the small end, is set as close as
may be required ; this drum is driven at great velocity ;
the stuff being fed in at the small end, is carried to the
wide end, where it enters a blower, which separates the
seed.

On Stand 32 Messrs. Clayton, Shuttleworth, and Co.,
of Lincoln, exhibited a number of first rate engines, for
one of which they were highly commended. These gen-
tlemen, by the use of the best materials and workman-
ship, have earned for themselves many prizes and a large
share of public patronage. They also exhibited their
combined thrashing machines, both portable and fixed,
which were stamped with prizes, therefore we can
add nothing more to raise them into the position
they merit.

On Stand 33 Mr. Frederick Phillips, of Downham,
Brandon, Suffolk, exhibited what he calls a root pulping
machine, but we should call it a mincing machine.
However, call it what we may, this is a most ingenious
thing, simple in construction, effectual in action, and
rapid in its performance. The principle employed is
that of the circular saw, cutting the root into saw dust,
which is fine or coarse according to the speed of the
saws, of which there are eight or ten fixed on a shaft,
with a smooth disc betwixt each, the periphery of which
is even with the bottom of the saw teeth ; this prevents
the saws from cutting farther into the root than the
depth of their teeth.

On Stand 34 Mr. Thomas Scragg, of Calveley, Tar-
porley, Cheshire, exhibited his simple, powerful, and
rapid acting tile machine, to which the prize was justly
awarded ; he also showed a brick press, an implement we
are very sceptical about the value of.

On Stand 35 Mr. Hunter, of Binbrook, Lincolnshire,
exhibited drills, horse hoes, and grubbers that are used
and thought well of by his farming neighbours ; they
are a useful set of implements.

On Stand 36 Mrs. Simpson and Son, of Lincoln, ex-
hibited a capital assortment of engines, machines, and im.
plements of agriculture. We congratulate the farmers in
the neighbourhood on their having so spirited a firm to
supply their wants.

On Stand 37 Mr, Thomas Buxton, of New Malton,
Yorkshire, exhibited, in addition to an assortment of
new mills, his clod-crusher adapted for rolling wheat or
seed lands.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

On Stand 38, Messrs. Hornsby and Son, of Grantham,
Lincolnshire, exhibited their portable steam engines, for
which they have taken every prize they have competed
for, with only one exception ; and that was lost when
such appendages were in action as no sensible farmer would
use. This says much ; for, when men win annually, they
must be the best. They, amongst these, showed their Great
Exhibition prize engine, which was a treat for lovers of
mechanics to feast their eyes upon. They also showed
their dressing machine that has won the prize for many
years. Also their horse-thrashing machine, for which
they have been so long and justly-famed : this is now
about out of demand for home use, though yet available
for the foreign market. They likewise exhibited their
combined thrashing machine, which, for the perfection
of barley thrashing, shaking, and winnowing, was not
excelled, if equalled, by any machine in the yard.

On Stand 39, Mr. J. T. Knapp, of Clanfield, Bamp-
ton, Oxfordshire, exhibited a corn-dressing machine —
a combination of Cooch's dressing machine and the
corn -separator : this is a very good contrivance, and
accomplishes the work in excellent style — about fast
enough for a man to measure it up. But that does
not suit the great corn-growing counties : they like to
see two men measuring up ; but for those who are de-
sirous of making the best sample possible of what they
grow, this is a capital implement.

On Stand 40, Mr. E. H. Bentall, of Heybridge,
Maldon, Essex, exhibited a large assortment of his
broadshares or scarifiers, for which he received the prize.
This implement makes a very good grubber and
excellent subsoil plough • and one of its best properties
is, that its price brings it within the reach of every
farmer, and the power required to work it within that of
every team of horses.

On Stand 41, Mr. James Comins, of South Molton,
Devon, exhibited his well-known and widely-used horse
hoes, and his subsoil pulverizer, which is light, strong,
and eificient ; also a new turnwrest plough, which has
some good points about it ; and we think he has accom-
plished a great improvement upon Locock's.

On Stand 42, Mr. J. Bailey Denton, ot 52, Parlia-
ment-street, London, exhibited a relief map of a drainage
area, being a specimen of mechanical modelling of a
ground surface ; invented, improved, and manufactured
by the exhibiter. By the use of this implement, any
appropriate system of drainage may be devised, so as
not only to secure an effective discharge of injurious
waters, but to suggest their profitable application when
concentrated by drainage. The improvement consists
in the mode of applying parallel slips of copper, so as
to indicate contour lines or courses of equal altitude, for
constructing the model mechanically. This is a simple
means of getting over a complicated task, and will, we
think, cause many gentlemen to have model maps of their
estates, especially as the cost is so small an amount
per acre.

On Stand 43, Mr. Stanley, of Peterborough, ex-
hibited an assortment of roller-mills and steaming
apparatus, for which he has been so long celebrated ;
also chaff-cutters, land-rollers, and pressers of various

well known good sorts, with his wheel roller, invented
by Mr. Gilson Martin, of Goose Tree Farm, Match,
Cambridgeshire ; manufactured by the exhibiter.

On Stand 44, Mr. Warren Sharman, of Melton
Mowbray, Leicestershire, exhibited hand hay and corn-
rakos, made of light tubular-iron. These are light,
strong, durable articles, and as low priced as wood-
framed ones ; also twitch-rakes of the same material,
with steel teeth. These we can with confidence com-
mend to the notice of all light-land farmers. His sheet-
iron root, corn, and chaff- scuttles are capital things;
they are made either of common or galvanized sheet-
iron, and are light, strong, and very durable for
filling corn into sacks, bushels, or machine in the barn,
feeding cattle and sheep, &c.

On Stand 45, Mr. Thomas Johnson, of Leicester,
exhibited a large and well- selected assortment of agri-
cultural and horticultural implements and tools ; among
them we observed some excellent pig- troughs. His
churn, invented by Mr. Lorenzo Tindall, is a first-class
article, and completely gets over the great objection
there was to the old barrel churn, namely, that if turned
fast the milk or cream got fixed by the centrifugal force
all round the churn in a state of quietude : to avoid
this, Mr. Tindall puts the pivots it revolves upon,
eccentric to the centre of the barrel, at opposite lines to
each other, so that the churn hangs diagonally, thus
giving two motions to the cream — one, caused by its
gravity, finding its level ; and the other, by the centri-
fugal force, throwing it from one end of the churn to
the other, giving that differential movement that quickens
the process of churning.

On Stand 46, Mr. Howard, of Bedford, exhi-
bited a series of his far-famed ploughs, in the working
details of which he has made several improvements,
which consist in greater elegance of design, and more
equal proportions, the furrow turners being made pecu-
liarly taper and regular in their curve, and formed upon
exact geometrical principles ; the furrow slice is made
to travel at an uniform rate from its being first cut until
left in its final position, and the furrows laid moie
evenly and in the best form for the reception of the seed,
as well as working much cleaner on land inclined to
adhere to the breast or furrow turner. After one of the
closest contests ever known, the prize was awarded to
Messrs. Ransomes and Sims, and Mr. Howard was
highly commended for the general purpose plough, Mr.
Howard winning the prize for deep ploughing, and
Ransomes' highly commended.

On Stand 47 Mr. Selby Hand, of Glinton, Lincoln-
shire, exhibited a very useful chaff cutter, that choked
by bad management when on trial ; also Coleman's
well-known cultivator, of various sizes.

On Stand 48 Mr. Charles Hart, of Wantage, Berks,
exhibited his well-known scarifier, or cultivators, of
different sizes, which were tried, and performed very
well, receiving the commendation of the judges ; also
his combined thrashing machine, which, since taking the
prize last year, has been much improved.

On Stand 49 Mr. George Hunter, of Ulceby, Lin-
colnshire, exhibited his drills, of different kinds that are

254

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

used and approved of iu that neighbourliood ; also a
very good two-horse cart, at a low price, which we
think should have been about half the weight, and made
for one horse.

On Stand 50 Mr. Joseph Lee, of Stonnall, Stafford-
shire, should have have had an engine, but was not forth-
coming on the trial day.

On Stand 51 Mr. Joseph Long, of Meriten's Wharf,
Dockhead, London, exhibited 70 casks of his non
poisonous sheep -dressing composition, which Is recom-
mended as a remedy for scab in sheep, mange in horses
and dogs, lice in all animals, without the least risk to
the animal or the dresser. We hope that those requir-
ing this will give it a fair trial, and make public its
merits. He also showed 10 cases of his sheep foot-rot
lotion, for the cure of that dreadfully annoying
disease; it also destroys maggots, heals wounds of all
kinds, and cures all cutaneous diseases.

Stand 52 — Mr. John Patterson, of Beverley, York-
shire, did not arrive in time.

On Stand 53 Mr. Michael Penestan, of Lincoln, ex-
hibited his portable steam engines, which upon trial
were proved to be well suited for the coal mining dis-
tricts, where coals are plentiful and cheap ; also Cam-
bridge's rollers, of various sizes, moderate in price.

On Stand 54 Mr. William Shephard, of Hovering-
ham, Notts, exhibited his plough, which was tried and
worked very creditably, showing that his neighbours
need not go far for a useful plough ; also a miller's cart,
well built, neat, and strong.

On Stand 55 Messrs. Smith and Ashby, Stamford,
Lincolnshire, exhibited their hay-making machine. This
machine is far superior to all others. They also showed
their horse rake, which is a useful implement, and a
series of different sized chaff cutters, which, both as hand
and power machines, were but a few degrees behind the
winner, being well made substantial articles.

On Stand 56 Messrs. Turner and Co., of Ipswich,
Suffolk, exhibited their roller mills, of a variety of sizes.
They have again carried away the prize with ease, which
says all that well could be said, as it was a fair run trial,
upon the soundest principles that could scarcely err.

On Stand 57 Messrs. Tylor and Sons, of Warwick-
lane, Newgate-street, London, exhibited a first class fire
engine, equal to thirty men, throws 134 gallons of water
per minute 120 feet high. We would commend this to
all towns and villages, as its power is the great safe-
guard against the spread of fire, when it breaks out
among thatch, straw, or timber.

On Stand 58 Mr. Walker, of East Bridgford, Rat-
clifFe, Notts, exhibited his corn and seed drill. This is
a nicely arranged and well made machine, and operated
very satisfactorily, receiving a commendation from the
judges.

On Stand 59 Mr, Edward Weir, of Bath-place, New-
road, London, exhibited a number of irrigator, liquid
manure force pumps, worthy the notice of all parlies
who have an opportunity of using sewage water ; also a
hose pipe reel. This is a most valuable implement to
those who use liquid manure by hose. His drainino'
level is a simple, cheap, light instrument ; bat we

thought most of his workman's pendulum level, for use
in the drain.

On Stand 60 Mr. James Woods, of Stowmarket, Suf-
folk, exhibited a series of scarifiers, or grubbers. These
are made upon a good principle; but we think that
wrought iron would be much better than cast in every
respect. Also a very good one-horse power gear-work,
for driving chaff cutters, linseed crushers, bean and oats
breakers. Even in this age of steam, we think this a
thing there is much use for.

On Stand 61 Messrs. Allchin and Son, of Northamp-
ton, exhibited their portable steam engine.

On Stand 62 Mr. Francis Arding, of Uxbridge, Mid-
dlesex, exhibited his new principle of chaff cutter, in
which there is some merit ; but through a defect in the
feeding rollers, it choked when on trial. We expect to
be able to say something more favourable of this another
day.

On Stand 63, Mr. John Caborn, of Denton, Lincoln-
shire, showed a useful corn-dressing machine, that
operated very well, making fair work and expedition ;
but his chaff-cutter was not just the thing.

On Stand 64, Mr. J. J. Capper, of Loughborough,
Leicestershire, showed an eight-horse steam engine, and
a combined thrashing machine ; but neither stood in the
ranks of good performers ; his winnowing and dressing
machine was better thought of.

On Stand 65, Messrs. Barnard and Bishop, of Nor-
wich, exhibited an assortment of wirework-seated iron
garden seats and chairs, made of galvanized iron, with
and without elbows to them. These are very neat and
strong ; as are their unrivalled poultry-yard furniture, of
all sizes and devices ; also an extensive assortment of
galvanized and japanned wire netting, for all sorts of
fencing and purposes ; and an assortment of pig-
troughs of every variety, made of cast and wrought-iron.

On Stand 68, Mr. Thomas Chambers, jun., of Col-
kirk, Norfolk, exhibited a new implement, that has been
much wanted — a simple broadcast manure distributor,
manufactured by himself. The principle of this machine
consists of a barrel formed of a series of rings, each
having movable projecting pieces (for the delivery of
either highly comminuted or rough manure), which come
in contact with scrapers, so placed beneath the box that
the manure falls directly off, thereby doing away with
the certainty of setting fast the joints when the manure
has to slide down them ; the pressure of the scrapers on
the barrel being regulated also by moveable weights to
the greatest nicety, according to the adhesiveness of the
manure used. It is also fitted with a quite novel and
excellent stirrer, of an horizontal movement, by means
of a pair of bevil wheels and crank, which never fails to
give a constant and regular delivery from the box to
the bari'el, however moist the contents of the box may
be. It will sow from two bushels to any quantity re-
quired, and is so easily adjusted by the slide, that even
when at work the quantity can be varied according to the
quality of the soil to nearly the two extremes, which in
other machines cannot be done to the same extent with-
out the aid of change wheels ; it has, we hear, been per-
fectly successful this spring in the regular distribution

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

235

of the most diflScult mixtures, such as guano, blood
manure, and salt. We look upon this as a first-rate
machine.

On Stand 69, Mr. William East, of Spalding, Lin-
colnshire, exhibited a drop drilling machine for grain of
every description. The advantage of this is, that it
drops the seed in the rows at any required distance
apart, and therefore is equal to dibbling. We are very
favourably impressed with this, and believe that the
system would effect a great saving of seed.

On Stand 70, Mr. John Eaton, of Twywell Works,
Kettering, Northamptonshire, exhibited a capital one-
horse cart on a good principle, and first-rate workman-
ship and materials ; also a capital sheep -crib, very
neat and ornamental, at the same time preventing waste
of fodder; and an excellent hand power lifting-jack,
■which is worked with considerable ease, lifting three
tons. This the judges very justly commended.

On Stand 71, Messrs. Fowler and Fry, of Bristol,
exhibited their patent steam draining-plough : it has been
our good fortune to have seen this extraordinary imple-
ment at work frequently before, and to have seen it cut
through ash-tree roots four inches in diameter, without
making any visible difference to its action. On the trial
at Lincoln, it deposited the tiles about four feet deep in
the most perfect manner : when passing through hollow
or over heights, the depth was regulated with the utmost
nicety, so that the tiles maintained an equal fall through •
out ; the means for accomplishing this is very good and
effective. The land this machine was tried upon was the
same that eight horses could not plough ten inches deep ;
yet the tiles were deposited about four feet deep by a six-
horse steam engine with apparent ease. The drains were
opened up, to examine how the tiles were laid, also whe-
ther any were broken ; but it was found that none broke
iu the drain, although some broke before they reached
the entrance of the drain ; this we have invariably seen to
be the case. On opening up and stripping the tiles, they
were found laid as level as if done by the best workman,
with the advantage that they were so tight together,
that it was impossible to take up one without breaking
the line. We are convinced that for draining all
lands free from large stones, or loose gravel beds, there
is no hand-draining equal to this.

On Stand 72, Messrs. Hart and Son, of Brigg, Lin-
colnshire, exhibited their two portable steam engines ; but
feeling that they had some soft place about them, or too
great an appetite for coals, withdrew from competition.
They also showed some of Cambridge's rollers, of various
sizes, which they seemed to be better at manufacturing.
On Stand 73, Messrs. Dray and Co, of London, ex-
hibited their fixture six -horse power steam engine ; this
engine took the second place as to performance in the
trial-yard, and for its simplicity, compactness, and ease
of getting at all the working parts. This engine possesses
the additional advantage of elegance, symmetrical beauty,
and neatness of design, which, with the excellency of
finish and workmanship combined, renders it one of the
most profitable machines that those who require its
power can obtain. They also exhibited their Hussey
reaper, of which we have already spoken. They also

exhibited their own power chaff cutter ; this machine has
two knives and cutter, expeditiously making excellent
chaff; it can by a very simple contrivance be quickly
altered to cut straw into 4i-inch chaft' for litter, at the
rate of one cwt. per minute ; this is a system that saves
litter greatly, and makes the manure better.

On Stand 75, Messrs. Forshaw and Co., of Liverpool,
exhibited a three -ton cart and cattle- weighing machine ;
a pen for cattle and sheep is attached, which can be
removed at pleasure. The improvements since we last
saw it consist in its portability and its capability of being
fixed by any farm labourer. These gentlemen also
showed some good small weighing machines, sack-
barrows, crushing and kibbling mills, with Kase's fire-
engine and liquid-manure spreader : this is a valuable
adjunct to the farm for many important purposes, and a
great safeguard in case of fire.

On Stand 77, Messrs. E. and T. Humphries, of
Pershore, Worcestershire, exhibited their combined
thrashing, shaking, riddling, and winnowing machine.
This machine, on trial, did its work in excellent style,
though rather slow, both in thrashing wheat and barley.

On Stand 78, Messrs. .John and William Medworth,
of Newark, Notts., exhibited a very useful plough. Also
a steam cooking-stove that appeared to have some ex-
cellent principles about it.

On Stand 79, Messrs. Lucas and Wright, of Lincoln,
exhibited a lot of very useful little machines, among
which was a neat, strong, and economical sack- barrow
and a good Gardner's turnip-cutter.

On Stand 80, Messrs. Mapplebeck and Lowe, of Bir-
mingham, exhibited a large and well-selected assortment
of agricultural and horticultural machines, implements,
and tools, among which we noticed a bundle or set of
splendid draining tools and digging forks made by
Lyndon.

On Stand 81, Mr, Robert Hawkins Nicholls, of St.
John's, Bedford, exhibited his horse hoe, in which he
has displayed a vast amount of ingenuity to make it
overcome the difficulty of horse-hoeing crooked drills
and unlevel surfaces ; though Hornsby and Garrett's
steerages applied to drilling machines are doing away,
in a great measure, with the want of the first prin-
ciple in its purity as he has it ; and the use of Howard
and Williams's harrows, improved grubbers and rollers,
have almost annihilated the existence of the second.

On Stand 82, Mr. Edmund Skins, of Metheringham,
Lincoln, exhibited a horse-hoe, invented by Mr. Green-
ham, of Blankney. This is an ingenious thing, and we
have little doubt will be brought to what is desired after
a little more experience.

On Stand 83, Mr. Alfred Sparke, of Lincoln, ex-
hibited a well got up, strong, and useful circular-saw
bench, with a 32-inch saw, parallel gauge, and driving
pulley complete. This is the most substantial and
cheapest thing of the kind we have seen.

On Stand 84, Mr. Thomas Taylor, of Edingley, Notts,

exhibited a turnip drill for flat and ridge work, as well

as a manure distributor and turnip drill combined, an

improved straw cutter, and a corn-dressing machine.

On Stand 85, Messrs. Tasker and Fowle, Andorer,

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THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

Hampshire, exhibited Spooner's liquid and dry manure
drill. In this the water and manure are separate : one
either can be used without the other, or both together,
as may be required. This we like ; and hope the farmers,
in dry climates and soils, will study their own interest by
inquiring after its advantages, and so get satisfied before
another season rolls on them unprepared.

Oq Stand 86, Messrs. Tuxford and Son, of Boston,
Lincolnshire, exhibited their portable steam-engines.
These engines have always stood, and still stand in the
front rank; they are on the most compact, simple, and
durable principle we know of; the whole of the working
parts being inclosed from the weather and dust, prevents
an immense amount of wear and tear : the principle, too,
of a vertical cylinder is the sound one. We feel that
the judges did their duty when they commended these
engines.

On Stand 87, Messrs. Harris and White, of Sleaford,
Lincolnshire, exhibited an assortment of very useful
ploughs, that cut a fair figure in the field of trial. Also
waggons of a most unwieldy, ill construction, having
more lumber than mechanical principle or common sense
about them. Also a two-horse cart, after the same
fashion.

On Stand 88, Mr. James White, of 266, High Holborn,
London, exhibited an assortment of steel mills for grind-
ing all sorts of grain ; also hand flour- dressing machines.
Among the rest, a neat little mill that grinds wheat or
barley, and dresses the flour, at one operation.

On Stand 89, Messrs. Wilson, of Beverley, York-
shire, exhibited two of their corn-dressing machines,
which are in extensive use, and do their work in a most
satisfactory way : they are well made, and of good
materials.

On Stand 90, Mr. Thomas Allcock, of Kadcliffe,
Nottingham, exhibited some chaff-cutters that per-
formed, when on trial, very well, both as regards quan-
tity and quality of chaff produced. He also had some
very useful ploughs.

On Stand 91, Messrs. J. and A. Armitage, of Bury,
Huntingdonshire, exhibited hollow brick and drain-tile
machines, which to all appearance were not liable to get
out of repair, being simple, strong, and well made, and
possessing, when well managed, the power of producing
large quantities of a first-rate article of both kinds.

On Stand 92, Mr. Wm. Ball, ofRothwell, Kettering,
Northamptonshire, exhibited a number of his ploughs,
for which he has been so long celebrated. These
ploughs still rank among those selected for a second
trial on all occasions, and either take the prize or are
commended : at this meeting, after a severe contest,
the latter was his position.

On Stand 93, Mr. James Barton, ironmonger, 370,
Oxford-street, London, exhibited several sets of stable-
fittings of a useful and ornamental description, with
enamelled mangers ; also a Itirge assortment of stable-
hooks, brackets, and chains of almost endless variety.

On Stand 94, Messrs. T. and H. Brinsmead, St. Giles,
Torrington, Devon, exhibited their steam elevator and
shaker. This invention produces three effects by one
action, namely, first it tborouf^hly shakes the cora out

of the straw ; secondly, it collects again the short straw
that has dropped underneath with the grain, and sends it
away with the long straw ; thirdly, it conveys the corn
back into the body of the thrashing machine. It also
facilitates the winnowing process. The combined
thrashing machine is simple in contruction, and very
easy of power.

On Stand 95, Mr. Wm, Busby, of Newton-le-
Willows, Bedale, Yorkshire, exhibited his carts, which
were the only things of the kind in the yard that are
made on the true principles of mechanics, both for the
economy of manual and horse labour. They were well
made, and of capital materials. The build of the wheels
in these carts are a mechanical example to all in the
yard. A medal was awarded to this cart. He also
showed his celebrated plouglis, and the general purposa
plough was commended. He also showed the Rev. W.
F, Wharton's clodcrusher. This consists of a com-
bination of the Norwegian harrow and the continental
triune, and has the same effect as the Norwegian
harrow followed by a roller, without consolidating the
soil in the least. We consider this a good and economi-
cal implement for the purpose on moderately stiff clay
land and loams.

On Stand 9G, Mr, Richard Coleman, of Chelmsford,
Essex, exhibited his well-known and much-approved cul-
tivators or gru'jbers. When on trial, these implements
worked very well ; but we especially admired those made
of wrought-iron, the simplicity and ease of repairing
which far surpass those made of cast-iron ; the
lightness, combined with strength, acquired by the free
use of wrought instead of cast-iron, is a consideration
that ought to teach every man the folly of buying cast-
iron implements. We are aware weight keeps an imple-
ment close to its work, and assists an ill-constructed one
to perform work upon hard land ; but we know that,
when made upon sound principles, so long as there
is sufiScient strength, no grubber will refuse to per-
form its office, when land is in a fit state for use.
We are always puzzled to understand why it is that we
find, in a great many districts where shallow cultivation
suits the soil, the heaviest implements; while, where
deep cultivation answers best, and is followed out, light,
strong, simple implements are those in use. In Scot-
land, where deep cultivation is the general rule, they will
not have an implement that requires more than two
horses, if possible, many of them preferring to plough
the land rather than put four horses into a grubber.
We have no doubt Mr. Coleman, by lightening his
valuable implement, will give the Essex farmers the
power of proving that an efficient grubbing is as good
as frequent ploughing, and more economical.

On Stand 97, Mr. James Comes, of Barbridge, Nant-
wich, Cheshire, exhibited his chaff-cutters, of various
sizes, the excellency of which has enabled them to
take the prizes of this society for many years. He
also exhibited a very useful farmer's bone-mill, on the
old principle, which has not yet been superseded by any
other, profitably, although there arc mills that can per-
form wonders which astonish both judges and lookers-on.

On Stand 98, Mr. William Crowley, of Newport Pag-

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267

nell, Bucks, exhibited a one-horse cart for general pur-
poses, with -l-inch wheels, and with one of Love's skids
or stides for hilly countries attached : this is an excellent
contrivance, as it takes all the weight ofF the horses'
back, and stops the cnrt, however heavy the load, when
descending the steepest hills.

On Stand 99, Mr. Richard Downs, of llyhall, near
Stamford, Lincolnshire, exhibited some lii^ht useful
ploughs for very light soils ; also a very good light scari-
fier or grubber, for extirpating twitch out of light soils.
This is an implement well-adapted for the purpose in-
tended.

On Stand 100, Mr. William Garner, of Spalding,
Lincolnshire, exiiibited a great variety of Cambridge's
rollers, from \i to 30 inches in diameter; also a press-
wheel roller, composed of a number of discs with cylin-
drical rims about 2.^ inches wide, and a space between
of 2 inches : this we do not like, because when rolling
along drilled grain, a row happening to fall in the
space between these wheels, will rather be pressed out
than into the soil. However, in rolling across there is
less objection; yet, as a smooth roller, we think Cam-
bridge's the best.

On Stand 101, Mr. Thomas Milford, of Thorverton,
Cullompton, Devonshire, exhibited his one-horse carts,
to which the judges awarded a medal. These carts have
been vastly improved since wc last saw them.

On Stand 102, Mr. John Goucher, of Worksop,
Notts, exhibited his thrashing-machine, which has a
drum on a good principle for bolting machines, but from
bad arrangements in the concave, absorbed too much
power in its performance ; we yet hope better things of
it in future.

On Stand 103, Mr. David Harkes, of Mere, Knuts-
ford, Cheshire, exhibited his parallel expanding horse-
hoe, which is extensively used and esteemed throughout
the northern counties, where ridge cultivation of roots
prevails. This is an excellent implement, and the work-
manship and material (wrought-iron) are first-rate. He
also came forwaid with a reaping machine, on Glad-
stone's principle, which consists of a circular knife fixed
in segments to a drum or cylinder, with the necessary
gearing inside the said drum, to give it a horizontal re-
volvini^ motion, whicJi cuts the corn, carries it
round, and lays it in a straight swathe. It is fitted with
reverse motion, so as to throw it either to the right hand
or left, or laying two swathes together ; and a lever, with
a stone fixed in it behind, so that the man can lower it
when the knife needs sharpeninfr, which makes it self-
sharpening ; also a guard below the knife, and a small
wheel inside of the drum regulates the knife for the
height of the stubble. This machine will not, like many
others, work crossing \\vj\\ rounded-up ridges and
deep furrows. However, in this age of dry land, either
naturally or by drainage, that objection is of little im-
portance. This reaper in the trial-field was a failure,
through the want of a means of steerage, and tlie horses
being improperly attached; but were these two points
attended to, we know that it would perform well, and
make good work both as regards cutting and delivery.
This is the same machine that the late James

Smith, of Deanston, cut a great part of his crops with
for many years, and which received the Highland So-
ciety's prize (we believe of fifty pounds) in the year
183.5, at the Ayr Meeting, where we witnessed its per-
formance ; and although we have since seen a great deal
cut by various reaping machines, we think we have
never witnessed anything better than its performance
then. 'Tis true we may be harder to please now.

On Stand 104, Mr. .\rthur Lyon, of 32, Windmill.
street, Finsbury, London, exhibited a machine for cut-
ting up sprats and other fish, or any soft substance, for
manure. This we think a capital plan, and a very use-
ful machine for the purpose.

On Stand 105, Mr. Oliver Maggs, of Wincanton,
Somersetshire, exhibited his combined thrashing,
shaking, and winnowing machine, which on trial was
found in some points wanting in efficiency ; but the
shaking was good. There is an important advantage
that this plan of shaker has over others; namely,
that it can be simply and easily arranged, so as to be
either set at a high or low angle, as the crop being
thrashed is easy to shake or otherwise, or the straw re-
quired to be delivered on a waggon or on the ground —
thus never failing in performing its office.

On Stand 106, Mr. Wm. Milton, of Lincoln, exhi-
bited a single and a double-seated child's carriage, made
of wire-work, with steel springs. These are exceedingly
light, neat, strong, and ornamental, iind, if kept well
painted, very durable ; while their price is moderate.

On Stand 107, Messrs. Sheppard and Edwin Ran-
some, of Essex-street, Strand, London, exhibited
Fitch's economic oven. In this oven the heat is, by a
traversing principle, equally diffused throughout a series
of chambers, In which baking, boiling, and roasting are
simultaneously going on, or individually, as required.
This oven is worthy of attention and careful trial, as an
economiser of fuel.

On Stand 108, Messrs James Smith and Son, of
Pcasenhall, Yoxford, Suffolk, and Witham, Essex, exhi-
bited drills of every variety and size, for all purposes,
which for simplicity, efficiency, and durability, wore but
little surpassed by any in the show, when on trial being
always close up to the winners ; and in that class where
the before-mentioned principles must be prominent,
they havecarried away the prize for the best drill forsmall
occupations. They also showed a capital steerage horse-
hoe, which can be made to follow any of his drills taking
the same width.

On Stand 109, Mr. William Newzam Nicholson, of
Newark, Notts, exhibited a great variety of oilcake-
breakers, which have far many years stood high at the
shows of this Society, frequently carrying away the
prize. At the trial this season for the prize for the best
oilcake-breaker for cattle, sheep, or rapeeake for manure,
this muchine did its work very well and expeditiously, and
was highly commended. lie also showed a variety of
implements wherein tubular iron was used, where still-
ness as well as strength was necessary ; thus, also, ob-
taining the additional intrinsically valuable principles,
lightness and durabihty. For tliis applicationhe was highly
commended by the judges^ which we heartily join in.

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THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

On Stand 110, Mr. John Henry Saunders, Abchurch-
lane, London, did not show his reaping machine, which
is on Gladstone's principle, and the same as that shown
by Mr. Harkes.

On Stand 111, Mr. Henry Attwood Thompson, of
Lewes, Sussex, exhibited two useful one-horse earts,
with Love's skid or slide for descending hills, sustaining
the weight^ofF the horse's back, and checking the descent
of the cart. He also showed a drainage level of great
merit, which deserves the attention of those who are in
any way engaged in taking levels, as a most simple and
convenient investment.

On Stand 112, Mr. John Whitmee, of 18, Fenchurch-
buildings, London, exhibited his corn-crushers of diiFer-
ent powers ; these are simple machines, and do their
work in a very fair way.

On Stand 113, Mr. Hancock, of Sandbach,
Cheshire, exhibited his churns.

On Stand 114, Mr. Charles Revell, of Lincoln, exhi-
bited a very useful corn-dressing machine on a good and
simple plan, which on trial worked very well, and de-
served the commendation it received from the judges.

On Stand 115, Messrs. Ransomes and Sims, of Ips-
wich, Suffolk, exhibited an assortment of ploughs to suit
every soil in the world. Their plough — under trial in
competition for the best plough for going ten inches
deep — after a severe and close contest lost the prize, but
was highly commended. Their plough for general pur-
poses— after trial on strong clay, and light land upon
the limestone rock— ran Mr. Howard's Champion
Plough so close, that they were then taken into a stubble
field and tried, when again they were at par ; but when
the dynamometer was applied, Ransome's proving the
lightest draught, decided the prize in their favour, and
Howard's was highly commended. We like this close
running, as it ensures all the ability of these eminent firms
coming fully into play to reduce the draught, which
is of the greatest consideration next to a well-turned
furrow. We observed on this stand their East Anglican
cultivator or grubber. This is a light, strong, and
effective scarifier or grubber, made (as all such things
should be) of wrought iron. These gentlemen have this
year made a great advance in the steam engine class,
having gained the prize for the best fixture steam engine,
and the second for the best portable steam engine.
Here, too, we found Davy's patent decorticator, or, as
we would call it, unsteeped flax hackling machine. This
machine breaks the seed-bolls and woody part of the
flax plant, without steeping. This long-wished-for and
much-desired process separates the seed and woody part
from the flax, as soon after harvest as the crops are
sufficiently dry, without steeping, whereby the whole of
the strawy or woody parts, seed and bolls, are saved as
food for stock, nothing coming ofi' the land but the flax.
The manner in which this machine did its work was
truly astonishing. However, we are rather sceptical
about scutching it as it leaves this machine. We are
inclined to think that it will be found better to put it
through some steep or retting process before scutching;
however, experience will do the rest. This machine gets
over the great difficulty of giving the farmer power to

prepare this important crop so as, first, to retain all the
refuse as food ; and, secondly, to reduce the weight
almost to the minimum, and the power of compressing
it into very small bulk, for transit by rail, &c. Great
credit is due to this eminent firm for the care and per-
fection of work displayed in bringing Mr. Davy's inven-
tion out : we trust he will receive the reward such inge-
nuity is entitled to. This machine^^is fairly entitled to
the merit of being the greatest novelty of the year, and,
if its benefits are equal to its promising performance, we
may with safety say, the inauguration of a vast national
advantage.

On Stand 116, Mr. William Smith, of Little Wool-
stow. Fenny Stratford, Bucks, exhibited his reaping
machine. This has never been tried, and therefore is
only in embryo. However, it is in the able hands of
Messrs. Ransomes and Sims ; and if there is anything to
be made of the principles laid down, we shall soon hear
of its arriving at an efficient state.

On Stand 117, Mr. Robert Cotgreave, Ipswich,
Suffolk, exhibited a draining plough. This is on exactly
the same principle as Mr. M'Ewing's, of Blackdub,
Stilling, by the aid of which he drained his farm thirty
inches deep, twenty years ago. We recollect seeing it
working on his farm, taking out twenty inches deep at
one operation, with twelve good horses drawing it. We
know this will do well on subsoils like the Carse of
Stirling, where a slone is a great novelty to fall in with ;
but whei'e there are stones, we have no faith in it.

On Stand 119, Messrs. Cottam and Hallen, of
Winsley-street, Oxford-street, London, exhibited an
assortment of sets of stable furniture, made of cast iron,
enamelled ; also, harness-room fittings of the most
complete and perfect kind. These are worthy the at-
tention of gentlemen and horse-keepers generally. Also,
pig and dog-troughs, garden-seats and stools, flower-
stages, walk-borderings, with ornamental vases and
pedestals, all well made to suit the purpose intended.

On Stand 120, Messrs. Hill and Smith, of Brierley
Hill, Dudley, Worcestershire, exhibited several sets of
stable fittings, of handsome pattern and good principle ;
enamelled mangers ; also, cast iron water-pipes, iron
stable wheelbarrow. Budding's lawn-mower, game-proof
and every other variety of wire netting, with an assort-
ment of his iron fencing, so frequently awarded prizes
of merit by this society and others. We admired an
assortment of wrought iron ornamental garden- seats,
folding camp-stools, and flower-stands, in which artistic
taste was well developed.

On Stand 123, Messrs. Gibbs, of Halfmoon-street,
Piccadilly, London, exhibited, as usual, several hundred
kinds of grasses and other agricultural seeds ; also, a
large collection of dried specimens of grasses, and spe-
cimens of roots, which were beautifully preserved.
There was something admirable in the quiet, neat, me-
thodical, and orderly way in which everything on this
stand was, as usual, arranged. As we looked at it,
a powerful feeling of confidence pervaded us, as it ap-
peared to our mind that the simplicity and neatness of
the stand gave a token that hoaour and integrity were
the architects thereof.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

259

On Stand 125, Mr. William Bullock Webster, Mal-
vern, Worcestershire, showed the model of a digging
machine (from the Dublin Exhibition), invented by one
of Mr. Dargan's Irish workmen. It is stated that this
machine is intended to be used by steam or horse-power,
for the purpose of digging the surface of the land to the
depth of eighteen inches, by spade or fork. We have
but little hope for the advance of agriculture in our
Bister isle, if she is to depend upon this principle of
digging machine for the furtherance thereof.

On Stand 126, Mr. George Bruce, of 52, Nelson-
street, James-street, Liverpool, exhibited black var-
nish, represented to be better than paint, and more
durable and much cheaper. We are aware that black
paint is poor weak stuff, and a good cheap varnish is
much wanted ; tlierefore, we hope this will have a fair
trial.

On Stand 127, Messrs. Tree and Co., Charlotte-
street, Blackfriars-road, Surrey, exhibited a variety of
Ewart's cattle-gauge, and key to the weighing machine,
on the principle of the slide-rule, for ascertaining the
carcase-weight of cattle, adapted in its use for various
breeds, both sexes, and for different states of condition.
We have used these rules, and found that they are an
invaluable instrument to the farmer, who, in many
cases, is for several months out of the habit of examin-
ing fat stock, and therefore liable to be deceived in
their weight, putting him in a very unfair position to
cope with the everyday dealer or the butcher.

On Stand 128, Mr. George Chivas, seedsman,
Chester, exhibited specimens of his orange-jelly turnip.
These were extraordinary bulbs, for the stage of ma-
turity they had arrived to. They had been sown the
first week in April, and were about four inches in dia-
meter, on an average, with — as we were told — only fair
cultivation.

On Stand 129, Messrs. Lawson and Sons, of Edin-
burgh, exhibited a selection of all the useful grasses,
standing beside the sample of their seeds : also, the
different varieties of twitch, standing beside their seeds :
so that a farmer, finding any mixture in the seeds he
was about to buy, could, by comparison, find whether
it was bad or good. We are of opinion that less twitch
would be sold among ryegrass, if this plan were more
generally adopted by seedsmen. They also exhibited
models in wax of all the agricultural roots and horti-
cultural fruits of our country.

On Stand 130, Mr. Wm. Thorold, Hamlet of Thorpe,
Norwich, exhibited three boxes of models of portable
farm-buildings — a plan that has at various times been
discussed by calculating men. We quite agree with the
exhibitor, that there is much sound reason in the plan
of portable buildings ; but we rather think they would
be moved at less expense, taken down in convenient
parts, and fitted up again, than by any unwieldy crane.
Although there is much feasibility in the proposition, we
fear there is not that economical practicability about it
which will induce any cautious man to try the experi-
ment, although we think, by having them to take down
and put up with facility, it would be great advantage in
many cases.

On Stand 131, Messrs. George Gibbs and Co., 26,
Down- street, Piccadilly, London, showed samples of an
immense number of grass- seeds, with the plants in
many cases, and directions for their cultivation ; also, a
collection of dried specimens of the cereal grass, wheat,
barley, rye, and oats ; specimens of some of the natural
grasses ; a large and capital collection of swedes,
mangold, turnip, carrot, and various other agricultural
roots, in splendid preservation, with excellent samples
of the seed of each. This stand was very neatly and
well arranged, their exhibition generally doing great
credit to the taste of the managers thereof.

We have now finished our task, and are pleased to
give our congratulations on the success of this meeting
to all parties who have in any way contributed to the
exhibition we have endeavoured to review. At least, we
have done our best to fulfil the duty we have under-
taken ; and if we have been severe, or somewhat hard,
it has been with a good intention, for, in a great matter
like this, it is the national good, and not that of indi-
viduals, which must be studied.

We may congratulate the farmer—

On the speedy establishment of the reaping machine
as one of the implements of the farm ;

On the production of Chambers' manure- distributor,
which will with economy perform that work which was
thinning our population ;

On the production of Davy's unsteeped-flax hackler,
which will now put the farmer in the easy and profitable
way of growing and sending to market flax, which is of
vast importance at this time, the war keeping our linen
trade almost at a stand for want of the raw material ;

On the grand means achieved by Mr. Amos, of fairly
testing the amount of power absorbed by machines
while at work, during any given time, which will be a
powerful means of purifying our mechanical con-
trivances, rendering them what they ought to be; and

On the arrival of the time when we can mechanically
weave a network of tubes through our stubborn clays
(by the mighty monarch, Steam), rendering them dry,
mellow, and free ; converting them from the production
of twenty bushels to that of forty per acre. We con-
gratulate Mr. Fowler on his success, and hope that his
steam engine and draining plough may never stand still,
as long as there is an acre of land to drain in the
kingdom.

THE EXHIBITION OE PIGS.

The only classification adopted by the society is that
of " Large Breed" and " Small Breed" ; and consider-
able difficulty always arises in distinguishing between
the two, so as to pronounce with certainty in which class
some of the animals ought to be shown. For it is less
the actual dimensions than the peculiarities of form that
mark these groups of " large" and " small" breeds, the
latter being found, in some instances, to exceed some of
the former in size and weight. And although the judges
are always directed to withhold prizes from any animal,
however meritorious, if entered (according to their judg-
ment) iu a wrong class, it frequently happens that a

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THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

" small breed" pig possesses such amazing frame and
flesh as to exclude the really small from fair comparison.
Perhaps a better way of ensuring equality of competition
would be to follow an entirely different principle of clas-
sification : for instance, take the purposes for which the
animals are bred and fed, and give two or more sets of
prizes for the individual specimens best qualified for these
purposes respectively. Swine are employed for produc-
ing two varieties of valuable meat, pork and bacon : one
set of prizes might be offered, therefore, for boars and
sows best adapted for breeding fine porkers, and another
set for larger bacon hogs ; apportioned, of course, be^
tween boars, sows, and sow pigs, as at present.

And now with respect to the show at Lincoln : we
have certainly seen better — taken as a whole — but many
of the animals were of a very superior order, particularly
in the small-breed classes.

Class I. — Boars of a Large Breed. — First prize
to Henry Blandford, of Sandbridge, near Chippenham,
Wilts, for " Jack," 2 years 3 months and 2 weeks old,
a pure Berkshire, black, with white face and feet ; dam
Star, sire of dam Pocock. This is a very large hog,
but with rough hair, and a rather coarse quality
of flesh. The second prize to Matthew flarvey and
Joseph Branston, of Langford, near Newark, for a white
boar, 2 years 11 months and 2 weeks old, of very great
size, good quality, and little offal ; somewhat of small-
breed character. The judges highly commended
" Charley,"' a white boar, 3 years and 4 months
old, belonging to Mr. Francis Frudd, of Bloxholm
Manor, near Sleaford ; sire, a boar of the late Mr.
Charles Mainwaring, of Coleby-hall, near Lincoln. This
animal is of immense weight— no less than 74 stone,
alive ; he has rather a small-breed character. We
noticed also in this class a very well-made pig, of ex-
ceedingly good quality, exhibited by Mr. Jonathan
Brown, of Height, near Wigton, Cumberland.

Class IL — Boars or a Small Breed. — First
prize to Mr. William Northey, of Lake Lifton, near
Launceston, for a 1 year and 3 months old black boar of
the improved Leicester breed, having a very thick form
and substance, and beautiful quality, though rather too
short at the tail. The second prize to Mr. Solomon
Ashton, of Peter-street, Manchester, for " Yorks," 1
year and 2 months old, of pure small breed, white with
blue spot ; a remarkably well-bred and valuable hog.
The 42 months old improved Oxfordshire black boar of
Mr. Samuel Druce, of Eynsham, near Oxford, was
highly commended ; certainly a compact, well-formed
animal — very good, short, and deep. Besides one of
Mr. Northey's and one of Mr. Turner's boars, which were
commended, we were pleased with a boar, " The King
of Hearts," exhibited by Mr. George Mangles, of
Givendale, near Ripon, Yorkshire, a very large animal,
but still quite in character.

Class IIL — Breeding Sows of a Large Breed.
—We have seldom seen so large a sow as the first prize
one, shown by Edward Robinson, of Green Bank, near
Lymm, Cheshire. "Amazon" is 2 years and 2 months
old, white, with a few blue spots, immensely long, and
having very deep sides. The Rev. Edward Elmhurst, of

Shaweil Rectory, near Lutter*v-orth, Leicestershire,
showed a remarkably fine sow (highly commended). W.
B. Wainman, of Carhead, near Cross Hills, Leeds, is
also highly commended for a white sow of large York-
shire breed, having very great length and great sides.
Mr. Peter Wiight, of Church MinshuU, near Middle-
wich, Cheshire, Mr. William James Sadler, of Bentham
Purton, near Swindon, and Mr. Moses Cartwright, of
Stanton Hill, near Burton-on-Trent, exhibited animals
remarkable for their symmetry and fine fattening
qualities.

Class IV. — Breeding Sows or a Small Breed.
— In this Class, which the Judges have honoured with a
"general commendation," Mr. Mangles takes the prize
for the "Queen of Diamonds," 2 years and 4 months
old, Yorkshire breed, white ; sire " Guy Fawkes,"
dam " Lucy," of beautifully fine quality. Mr. Northey
showed some capital sows in this class ; so did Mr.
Thomas Horsfall, of Burley Hall, near Otley, York-
shire. Mr. Samuel Gill, of South Normanton, near
Alfreton, Derby, showed a very pretty sow ; and the
Earl of Radnor's white sow, of Coleshill breed, is very
superior, with good back, and fine quarters.

Class V. — Three Breeding Sow Pigs, of a
Large Breed. — Mr. Sadler takes the prize for a pen
of three sow pigs, 7 months and 1 day old, pure Berk-
shire breed, dark spotted; sire "Wellington," dam
" Duchess of Gloucester," sire of dam " Barrington."
Mr. John Harrison, jun., of Heaton Norris, near
Siockport, showed a pen of almost equally meritorious
animals ; very useful, and uncommonly good in cha-
racter.

Class VI.— Three Breeding Sow Pigs, of a
small Breed. — The prize was carried off by the Earl
of Radnor, for three 5 months and 2 weeks old white
pigs ^of his Lordship's celebrated Coleshill breed ; sire
" Farringdon," dam " Old Bess." In this class we
more particularly preferred the pens of Mr. W. B.
Wainman ; of Mr. Thomas Crisp, of Gedgrave, near
Woodbridge (of a Suffolk breed) : and of Mr. S. Druce.
The judges commended the pigs of Mr. Thomas
Greetham, of Wi-agby, Lincolnshire, which are cer-
tainly very large for their age ; but rather deficient as
respects the quality of their flesh.

POULTRY.

We are sorry to notice this year so comparatively poor
a show. Lincolnshire seems not to have surmounted the
old prejudice that it showed when it underated Mr.
Handley's exertions. Lincolnshire is yet decidedly be-
hind in attention to poultry : a department of farming
in this respect from which, if properly conducted, a good
profit may be derived. We should be glad to see a
county so celebrated in other respects, take the lead in
this also ; and we advise that the old motto, " What is
worth doing at all, is worth doing well," be constantly
kept in mind.

The exhibition in question is, in our opinion, not
nearly so meritorious as it might have been. True, the
time of year is not very suitable to the show of birds in
full feather ; because, after having performed the duties

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

261

of the spring, they are uecessariiy out of couditon. We
venture to ask, then, whether it would not be well to
give prizes for chickens — encouraging the production of
early maturity ? Prizes for adult birds might be left for
Birmingham to award at Christmas.

The benefits of this annual poultry show are two-fold :
it affords to amateurs an arena wherein to enter into
friendly competition ; and to the landowner or occupier it
affords an opportunity to judge of the comparative excel-
lence of breeds. The eye will not alone decide which is the
sort adapted especially to any locality : we must consult
experience to come at this knowledge. We do not
intend to diverge into any remarks in this direction how-
ever ; and we only say, by way of introduction to some
detailed notice of the fowls exhibited, that there may be
three classes of profit — breeding for fancy, breeding for
eggs, breeding for the table. The first change with
fashion ; the second is certain profit ; while the third is,
although the most neglected, the most remunerative of
the three. Of the first we shall say nothing. The
Spanish, Hamburg, and Polish fowls are respectively
good layers, bad sitters, and consequently fitted for
those who require large supplies of eggs. The Cochin
China, Malay, Dorking, and Game fowls are good layers,
good sitters, and good nurses. But while the Dorking
and its kindred varieties are excellent for the table, the
Malays and Cochin Chinas can seldom be served up
except as roasted, because of bad colour. M. Soyer
says that, as a rule to be observed in the kitchen, white-
legged fowls should be boiled, and black-legged poultry
are fit only for the spit.

With these ends in view, our judgment may be aided ;
and we may presume that they are the same as influenced
the decision of those gentlemen who awarded the prizes.

Amongst the Dorking fowls, Mr. Davis won the first
and second prizes for two lots, severally consisting of a
cock and two hens, chickens of 1854. The third prize
was awarded to Mr. Joseph Smilh ; and the fourth to
James Lewry, of Haudcross, Crawley, Sussex.

For Dorking fowls more than one year old, Mr. Davis,
of Spring-grove House, Hounslow, was again successful.
Mrs. Townley Parker took two prizes, and Mr. Gelderd,
of Kendal, brings up the prize list. This latter lady and
gentleman are again successful competitors in Class
III. — Dorking cocks of any age. Viscount Hill is a
highly commended exhibiter of Dorking fowls.

In Class IV. for Spanish fowls, Mr. Davis stands first
and third, Mr. Bothan second, and Mr. Gelderd fourth.

In Class VI. for Cochin China fowls, Mr. Gelderd
bears off the two first prizes, Mr. Taylor, of Hounslow,
the third, and Mr. Sandy, of Nottingham, the fourth.
Lincolnshire for the first time successful in the class for
Cochin China cocks of any age, in the property of Mr.
Pocklington, of Boston ; wa thought a cock and two
pullets, 4 months and 3 weeks old, exhibited by Mr.
Fairlie, discovered marks of good breeding. Mrs.
Walker's were commended. It did not strike us that the
specimens for the ninth class — game fowls — were up to
the mark. It is a valuable and beautiful species, and we
hope that its perfect proportions and splendid plumage
may not be lost to us, because those men who traded in

its pugnacious propensities are becoming extinct. To
Mr. Worrall, near Liverpool, Mr. Adkins, near Birm-
ingham, and Mr. Cox, near Derby, were the 1st, 2nd,
and 3rd prizes respectively awarded. Mr. Lowe sent
from Tamworth some fair specimens.

Prizes and commendations were withheld from the
two first classes of Hamburg fowls. In the second and
third, Mr. Sylverton, Mr. Andrew, Mr. Dixon, and Mr.
Ashcroft were successful competitors.

The lovers of these pencilled and spangled must have
been very much disappointed.

Mr. Oldham, of Derby, and the Rev. T. Lyon Fel-
lovves, of Acle, Norfolk, took prizes of Malay fowls.

Mr. Adkins, of Edgbaston, Birmingham, whose Polish
Fowls were the admiration of the judges lastyear at Lewes,
preserves his fame, and carries off the two first prizes ;
to Mr. Rawson, of Walton-on- Thames, is awarded the
third prize, for a pen of Poland fowls, consisting of one
cock and two hens.

Viscount Hill's turkeys merit great commendation,
and he wrests the prize away from Lincolnshire, which
thanks to Mr. Pocklington, of Boston, and Mr. Maw, of
Crowle,yet maintains a fair position in this class.

In geese, Lincolnshire is beaten. The first prize is
adjudged to a lady (who succeeded both this year and
last amongst the Dorkings) named Townley, of Lanca-
shire ; the second and third are awarded to Mrs. Hill
and Mr. Rawson, both of Walton-on-Thames.

From the prize list for ducks, we take the following
names— -Mr. Beavington, of Hounslow, Mr. Davis, of
Hounslow, Mr. Gelderd, of Kendal, Mr. Botham,
Slough, Mr. Teanby, of Hull, Mr. Punchard, of Suffolk,
Mr. Worrall, of Liverpool, and Mr. Keyworth, of
Lincoln.

We avoid making any detailed critical remarks upon
the inmates of the different pens. Our desire is not to
improve by detecting and exposing faults, but by com-
mending excellencies. As these excellencies do not by
any means predominate, it is perhaps better to close our
report now, hoping that the " celebrities" will fly to the
rescue at Carlisle next year.

We cannot close, however, without saying that the ex-
hibition of Dorking fowls merits, perhaps, more indi-
vidual notice than we have given it. Excellence was
certainly more observable here than elsewhere.

These observations were made under the rays of a broil-
ing sun — wonder not therefore, O reader, at the high
temperature of our remarks.

A Monthly Council was held at the Society's house,
in Hanover-square, on Wednesday, the 2nd of August.
The following Members of Council and Governors of
the Society were present : Colonel Challoner, Trus-
tee, in the Chair ; Lord Southampton, Sir John Villiers
Shelley, Bart., M. P., Mr. Raymond Barker, Mr. Hodg-
son Barrow, M.P., Mr. Barnett, Mr. Barthropp, Mr.
Garrett, Mr. Brandreth Gibbs, Mr. Hamond, Mr. Fisher
Ilobbs, Mr. Lawrence, Mr. Milward, Mr. Sillifant,
Prof. Simonds, Mr. Simpson, Mr. Turner (Barton), and
Prof. Way.

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THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

The following new Members were elected : —
Ahrens, Ernest, Neu-Schlagsdorf, Meeklenburg-Schwerin
Barnes, Thomas, M.P., Quinton, Chirk, Denbighshire
Bird, William, Crouch Hall, Hornsey, Middlesex
Boote, James, Weston Hall, Nautwich, Cheshire
Brunskill, Stephen, Kendal, AVestmoreland
Byron, John, Mablethorpe, Alford, Lincolnshire
Edwards, William, Crewe, Cheshire
Elmhirst, Wdliam, Manor Ho., West Ashby, Horncastle
Garbutt, Thomas, Yarm, Yorkshire
Hall, James, Scarboro' Hall, Beverley, Yorkshire
James, John Angell, Bridgetown Farm, Stratford-on-Avon
Landor, Thomas Eaton, Shiffnal, Shropshire
Lawrence, Alfred, Hengrave, Bury St, Edmunds, SuflF.
Lawson, Charles, jun., Edinburgh
Legg, Benjamin, Bexington, Bridport, Dorset
Lynes, George Boulton, Hackleton House, Northampton
Maiuwaring, William, Brinfield, Ludlow, Shropshire
Meek, George, Braubridge Park, Crawley, Sussex
Peel, Sic Robert, Bart., M.P., Drayton Manor, Staffordshire
Smith, Edward W., Tickton Hall, Beverle}', Yorkshire
Tunnard, Rev. John, Frampton House, Boston, Line.
Wilson, Fuller Maitland, Langham Hall, Bury St. Edmunds
Wilson, Frank, Biubrook, Market Rasen, Line.

Finances. — Mr. Raymond Barker, Chairman of the
Finance Committee, submitted the monthly report on
the accounts, from which it appeared that the current
cash-balance in the hands of the Society's London
bankers was ,£776.

Fines. — Mr. Simpson, Chairman of the Fines Com-
mittee, presented the report of that Committee, when
the Council ordered that immediate steps should be
taken for the recovery of the fines for non-exhibition,
and a list be laid before them at their next meeting of
persons who should have failed to make those payments.

Protests. — Mr. Barnett, senior steward of the cattle-
yard at the Lincoln meeting, reported the protests made
against awards of the judges on that occasion. The
Council referred these protests to the investigation of
the stewards, with a request that they would report upon
them to the Council at their next meeting.

The following communication was received from the
Earl of Clarendon, with the best thanks of the Council :

" Foreign Office, July 21, 1854.

" Sir, — I am directed by the Earl of Clarendon to transmit
to you a copy of a list which has been sent home by Her
Majesty's Chargd d' Affaires at Lima, of those Islands and
places in Peru where guano is to be found ; and I am to request
that you will state to the President and Members of the Royal
Agricultural Society that Lord Clarendon has transmitted
another copy of this list to the Lords Commissioners of the
Admiralty, and has requested that the Admiral in command of
Her Majesty's squadron on the Pacific station may be directed
to make such a survey of the places named by Mr. Sulivan as
containing guano, as the means at his disposal will enable him
to undertake. Lord Clarendon has also instructed Mr. Suli-
van to furnish the Admiral with all the information he can
obtain on this important subject.

" I am. Sir, your most obedient humble servant,
" E. Hammond."

" To the Secretary of the Royal Agricultural Society."

Nitrate of Soda. — Mr. Pusey transmitted various
communications received from the Earl of Clarendon in

reference to searches instituted for natural deposits of
the nitrates. At Mr. Pusey 's suggestion, Prof. Way
had drawn up the following short memorandum of easy
means by which saline depositions may be tested as to
the amount of nitrates contained in them : —

Characteristics of Nitrates of Polasli, Soda, ^c. — All the
ordinary nitrates are readily soluble in water. The nitrate of
soda crystallises in cubes. The nitrate of potash in long
prisms. When exposed to a gentle heat the nitrates fuse,
giving off oxygen gas. On this character is founded the moat
simple and certain means of distinguishing these salts from all
other natural saline deposits — namely, to throw a portion of
the supposed nitrate on red hot fuel, when " deflagration," or
a greatly increased and violent combustion of the fuel, will
result. A mixture in which the quantity of alkaline nitrate is
too small for the production of these phenomena, will hardly
pay for importation into England. All nitrates are valuable,
though not in an equal degree, for agricultural use.

J. Thomas Way.

French Agriculture. — The following letter from
Mr. Herbet, Consul-General of France in England, was
laid before the Council, acknowledging, on the part of
the Minister of Commerce and Public Works in France,
the attention paid by the Council to the deputation sent
by the French Government to the Lincoln Meeting, and
offering for the acceptance of the Society a selection of
agricultural works published in Paris under his Excel-
lency's auspices : —

" Londres le 22 Juillet, 1854.
" Monsieur,

" Son Excellence M. le Ministre de 1' Agriculture, du Com-
merce et des Travaux publics, voulant reconnaitre les precedes
obligeants du Conseil de la Societe Royale d' Agriculture
d'Angleterre pour les delegues du Gouvernement Imperial, et
desireux en meme tems de temoigner du vif interet qu'il preud
au travaux et au succes de cette honorable Societe, m'a charge
de lui offrir, en son nom, divers ouvrages publics sous lea
auspices de son ministere, et dont vous trouverez la liste ci-
inclus. Je m'empresserai de vous la transmettre, dfes quils
seront parvenus a Londres.

" Ayant pu apprecier moi-meme a de nombreuses reprises la
bienveillance du Conseil de la Societe Royale, c'est avec le plus
grand plaisir. Monsieur, que je m'acquitte de la commission de
son excellence M. Magne. II me reste a vous remercier person-
nellement pour I'extreme courtoisie avec laquelle vous avez
constamment accueilli les personnes que j'ai eu I'honneur de
vous adresser et les demandes que j'ai ete charge de vous
aoumettre.

"Veuillez agre^r, Monsieur, les nouvelles assurances de ma
consideration tres-distinguee.

" Votre tres humble et tres obeissant Serviteur,

"Le Consul General de France,

"Ed. Hekbet.

" J. Hudson, Esq., Secretary to the Royal Agricultural
Society of England."

On the motion of Mr. Fisher Hobbs, seconded by
Lord Southampton, this communication was received
with the liveliest satisfaction by the Council, and a com-
plete set of the Society's Journal ordered to be offered
for the acceptance of the French Government, in ac-
knowledgment of the valuable donation then announced
to the Council.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

263

His Excellency Lord Cowley transmitted to the
Council, from Paris, a complete set of the Transactions
of the Imperial Agricultural Society at Valenciennes,
addressed to his care by the President of that body,
for presentation to the Royal Agricultural Society of
England, in acknowledgment of the set of Journals
oflfered to the Valenciennes Society in the year of Lord
Ashburton's Presidency, and transmitted through the
Consul- General of France in England.

Nature-Printing. — Messrs, Bradbury and Evans,
of Whitefriars, presented to the Council a series of
beautiful and striking specimens of their " nature-
printing," or process by which vegetable productions
may be printed off in their natural size and colour in
almost perfect fac-simile. The objects selected for the
series consisted chiefly of common wild flowers and well-
known agricultural and other plants, of which both the
strength and the delicacy of the details were given with
daguerreotype exactness. These specimens were much
admired by the members, and the value of such a pro-
cess in an agricultural point of view fully recognised.

Miscellaneous Communications. — From Col.
Owen, conveying the thanks of the Board of Trade from
the committee appointed by the Council to co-operate
with Mr. Brandreth Gibbs, in reference to the French
Exhibition j from Mr. Miles, M. P., President of the
Society, transmitting a letter from the Agricultural
Society of India ; from Miss Bannister, of Steyning,
details of the successful results attending her cultiva-
tion of the Dactylis glomerata, of which she forwarded
to the council on that occasion various specimens, as
well as of the hay made from it; from Mr. S. Clarke,
of Crc'wkerne, on the Potato disease ; from Mr. Hill,
Medical Superintendent of the Clifton Lunatic asylum,
inquiries on the management of sewerage ; from Mr,
Adderley, M.P., on the successful subsoil under-
drainage of Mr. Dumolo ; and from Mr. PuUan, of
Chester, suggestion for a prize for the construction of a
domestic corn-mill.

The Council having arranged that the prizes for
Implements next year should be decided on the first
Wednesday in December, appointed a General Carlisle
Committee, and requested Mr. Fisher Hobbs to attend
to the preparation of the land for the trial of imple-
ments. They then adjourned over the autumn recess
to the first Wednesday in November.

POTTED BUTTER.— The following is Mr. Ballantine'a
recipe. The butter is taken warm from the churD, and it is an
invariable rule never to work it or dip into water when in-
tended to be salted. The dairymaid puts it into a clean tub,
previously well rinsed with cold water, and then works it with
cool hands, till the milk is thoroughly squeezed out. Half the
allowed quantity of salt is then added, and well mixed up with
the butter, and in this state is allowed to stand till the next
morning, when it is again brought up, any brine squeezed out,
and the remainder of the salt added. It is then potted in
kits, which, when full, should be well covered and placed in a
cool dry stove. A small quantity of salt is usually sprinkled
on the surface. The quantity of salt used is half a pound to
141b8. of butter. — Qmrterhj Journal of AgrkuUure,

PRICE OF HALF-BRED DOWN AND LEI-
CESTER HOGGET WOOL, SOLD FOR
THIRTY-TWO YEARS.

Dear Sir, — As the price of English wool is looking up,
perhaps the statement of the price of half-bred Down and
Leicester hogget wool for 32 years, sold off a large farm in
this county, may be interesting to your readers at this time.
Yours truly.

Castle-acre Lodge, Aug. 19. John Hudson.

1822.

Pert

od
d.
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
39

of 281bs.
1838

s.
,52
.45
.35
.33
.29
.26
.38
.38
.35
.33
.24
.28
.28
.34
.36
.43

d-
n

1823.
1824.
1825.

, 44

1839

1840

1841..

0
0

1826.

1842.,

1843

1844

1827.
1828.

1829.

1845

1846

1847

1848

1830.
1831.
1832.

6
0
0

1833.

1849

1834.

1850

1835.
1836.
1837.

Average for 32 years

1851

1852

1353

s. 3|d. per tod of 281b8

0
0
0

CAUTION TO FARMERS.— About a fortnight since,
Mr. White, the much-respected tenant of "The Park Farm,"
near Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, sustained a severe loss by
the death of ^ye valuable cows ; all the exertions of two ex-
perienced veterinary surgeons proving unavailing — death, in
almost every case, occurring within twelve hours after the
beasts were first attacked. The symptoms appearing so un-
usual and extraordinary, it was thought that probably there
might be some poisonous herb growing in the pastures which
the cattle had eaten ; and, in order to satisfy himself upon the
point, Mr. White sent one of the stomachs to Mr. Herepath,
the eminent analytical chemist of Bristol, for examination ;
but not finding any vegetable impurity of any kind, Mr. H.
was induced to try for minerals, and found a quantity of green
•paint in the stomach ; quite sufficient, he said, to cause the
death of the animal. Now, as the cows were not known to
have had access to any paint of any kind, it was a mystery to
their owner as to when they could have eaten it ; but, remem-
bering that the pasture where they had been feeding had some
eighteen months since been dressed with the refuse of a
scavenger-heap from Tewkesbury, the field was searched, and
a quantity of paint (apparently the scrapings of painter's
kettles) found. These the deceased cattle had, no doubt, hcked
up whilst feedmg, and been poisoned thereby. Surely if
painters generally were aware of the poisonous nature of their
refuse, little persuasion would be required to induce them to
hury it, instead of throwing it to their ash-heaps, and, as in
this instance, causing so serious a loss to their neighbours.

IMPORTANT TO FARMERS.- A question having
arisen in several districts of South Wales as to the liability of
farmers to pay duty upon riding horses, the commissioners, in
order to save trouble and avoid appeals, directed the follow-
ing queries to be put to the Board of Inland Revenue •, First,
Whether any farmer keeping several horses — say four — and
consequently riding, himself or family, one or more of such
horses to fairs, markets, worship, &c. (such horses at othei:

Sdi

'fHK FARMER'S MAGAEllsM.

t;iuc3 being kept for farming purposes only), would be liable
to any, and what, duty? Secondly, Whether such person
keeping one horse only for his calling, and occasionally himself
or family riding such horse, would be liable, and, if so, to what
duty ? The answers returned by the Board were— that only

One horse is entitled to be kept for the purposes before men-
tioned, at the duty of lOs. 6d. ; and if other horses are ridden
by the farmer or his family, they are liable, according to
height, to the duty of £1 Is. or 10s. 6d. If one horse only
be kept, then the duty of 10s. 6d, is payable.

AGRICULTURAL REPORTS.

GENERAL AGRICULTURAL REPORT FOR
AUGUST.

The appearance and prospect of the crops have
formed the chief topic of discussion and con-
sideration this month. It is most gratifying for us
to be in a position to write most favourably on the
subject. In the first place we may observe thatj
notwithstanding that blight has made its appearance
in some districts, the yield of wheat is turning out
unusually large and of very fine quality ; that har-
vest work, under the influence of remarkbly fine
weather, has progressed with great rapidity ; and
that farmers in general are well satisfied with their
produce. The fact that a large quantity of wheat
has been grown this 'year, and that, too, in the
finest possible condition, has had considerable in-
fluence upon the wheat trade. Prices have suffered
a rapid decline ; but it has become a question in
some quarters whether the fall is not rather pre-
mature, seeing that not more than one-fourth of
the crop has as yet been carried. However, it is
clear that the growers are determined to take ad-
vantage of present rates, seeing that over 4,000
quarters of new wheat were on sale in Mark Lane
on the 28th inst. At present, our decided con-
viction is that we have grown one of the best crops
on record as regards acreable yield and general
quality ; and when we bear in mind that the extent
of land under wheat culture is far in excess of
many former years, we are led to the conclusion
that the total growth will prove enormous. There
is, however, much yet to be done ere harvest work
is brought to a close j and a return of wet and un-
genial weather may have a very decided effect not
only upon the condition of the new wheats, but like-
wise upon their value. The growth of barley is
certainly large, though we doubt whether it is equal
to last season. The samples as yet sold at Mark
Lane have been comparatively inferior. The oat
crop, however, is good ; but that of peas and beans,
especially the latter, is small. We have now com-
menced the consumption of the new crop of wheat
with an unusually small supply of old in farmers'
hands; but we find that, notwithstanding the war
with Russia, and the high value of wheat and flour
at New York, there are nearly, or quite, 1,000,000
quarters of foreign grain and flour in warehouse,

This is rather a significant fact, because, in the
event of home-grown wheat continuing to fall in
price, we shall have importers forcing the markets,
even at a ruinous sacrifice, in order to realize.

Much misconception prevails in some quarters
on the subject of the supply of old wheat still on
hand. We have been informed that in some por-
tions of the country they are good, and further*
that some of the growers have the whole of last
year's crop in the stack-yards. These instances
must be very rare ; indeed, for our part, we incline
to the opinion that the actual supply was never
smaller than it is at present. As regards spring
corn, there is little or nothing on hand.

The pastures have not exhibited that abundant
supply of grass which we have witnessed ia some
former seasons. However, depastured stock has
fared tolerably well, and we have heard of very few
cases of disease amongst either beasts or sheep ; but
it is certain that the immense consumption of meat
is rapidly draining the country of stock, and that
prices will continue very high in consequence.

Numerous conflicting statements on the subject
of the potato disease have reached us almost daily.
That it has extended itself throughout the country
not a doubt can exist ; but we hesitate not to say,
from personal observation, that many of the reports
have been overcharged, and that the losses up to
the present time are not so serious as has been re-
presented. We make this statement advisedly,
because we have every reason to know that some
remarks on this important subject have been
written for particular purposes. Out of the large
supplies of new potatoes disposed of in London
during the month, not one-tenth portion of them
has shewn any signs of disease. When we con-
sider the vast importance of the potato crop, bearing
as it does directly upon the value of the better
kinds of food, it "must be evident that mis-state-
ments are calculated to produce uneasiness and un-
certainty in the minds of the growers of wheat and
other grain ; at present, therefore, we regard the
crop as a large one, not forgetting that a very exten-
sive breadth of land has been planted with potatoes
this season.

The markets for the sale of both hay and straw
have been rather scantily supplied, Prime old hay

tHE FARMER'S MAGA2i:sK<

^i^;

has sold freely, and from its scarcity, prices liave
ruled quite equal to last month. New meadow hay
has realized 65s. to 85s., and new clover 70s. to
95s. per load. Most of the new hay disposed of
has been in fair average condition.

The wool trade has been tolerably active. The
late public sales of colonial having gone off ex-
tremely well, and at enhanced rates, viz., id. to
lid. per lb., notwithstanding the large supplies
brought forward — 55,600 bales. English wools
have commanded more attention ; hence the trade
has been decidedly healthy, and we may pretty
safely calculate upon a higher range in the value of
home-grown quahties.

The growth of seeds, this season, has been a
large one. The samples on show in our various
markets have been in good condition, and we are
informed that the yield of rapeseed in Holland is
considerably in excess of last year. The imports
of linseed have shewn a large arrival even from
Russia. There are about 30,000 quarters now
on passage from the Sea of AzofF, whilst the ship-
ments from Calcutta have exceeded those of 1853
to this period by about 10,000 quarters. The
abundance of the supply has produced rather an
inactive sale for cakes, and, in some instances,
prices have had a downward tendency.

In Ireland, the cutting of wheat and oats has
progressed rapidly, with remarkably fine weather
for the in-getting of the crops. The yield is large
and of fine quality, but our accounts relative to
potatoes are decidedly unfavourable. In Scotland,
harvest work has been commenced under the most
favourable auspices. Farmers generally have ex-
pressed themselves well satisfied with the prospect
before them. The corn trade has been heavy, at
drooping currencies.

REVIEW OF THE CATTLE TRADE
DURING THE PAST MONTH.

Most of the leading markets held in the month
just concluded have been tolerably well, though by
no means heavily, supplied with stock as regards
number ; but the general weight of the beasts,
sheep, and lambs has continued very deficient ;
indeed, the quantity of meat disposed of has been
unusually small, the time of year considered. The
primest animals have, therefore, been in great re-
quest and prices have ruled very high, with little
or no prospect of a decline in them for some months.
Whilst on the subject of value, we may briefly
allude to a meeting of butchers in the metropolis
on the subject of forestalling in Smithfield market.
No doubt they have had great difficulties to contend
with, for some considerable period, in obtaining any-

thing like a fair return for their outlay of capital in
Smithfield. Those who give large credits are
compelled to bring additional capital into their
business, and those who are not good judges of
live stock frequently purchase at a loss, arising
from the deficiency in the weight of the beasts and
sheep, compared with their bulk ; hence it follows
that the present state of our markets offers a serious
drawback to the butchers' interests, and has induced
a spirit of opposition to the so-called " forestallers."
At the meeting in question, we were informed that
numerous jobbers are in the habit of meeting the
cattle-trains on their arrival in the metropolis on
Sunday evenings, and purchasing large droves of
stock from the drovers at low prices, and thus they
are enabled to rule the market on the following
day. This statement can be true in only very few
instances, because drovers in a general way have
no power to dispose of property entrusted to their
care to convey to certain salesmen. This statement
then is not hkely to strengthen the cause of the
butchers. But are they not aware that for the last
fifty years at least the country is visited by those
technically called "jobbers;" men who are possessed
of a large amount of capital, and who visit the
graziers in various distant locahties, and who buy
extensively, not only for Smithfield, but likewise
for nearly all the other great markets in the king-
dom ? These parties invest annually many millions
of money, and sometimes they make a considerable
profit, at other times they are severe losers. These
transactions, then, do not partake of the character
of forestalling; they are merely speculative pur-
chases, just on the same principle that corn and
other articles are bought, in order to realize a profit.
It is a system which no Act of Parliament can touch ;
in point of fact, were it not for the operations of
the speculative class the price of meat in London
would be considerably higher than it is noio.
Corn is a speculative article : as well endeavour to
check the importation of wheat as to attempt to put
down speculation in it and in fat stock. There is,
however, one difference to be noticed, viz., in the
event of a declining or losing market, corn can be
warehoused at a trifling cost ; but the stock once in
London must be sold in a few days, or the loss upon
it would be enormous.

The consumption of meat, arising from the great
prosperity in our manufacturing districts, and the
full employment afforded the operative classes, con-
tinues on a most extensive scale. Such, indeed, is
the extent of the demand, that it is with the greatest
difficulty that it can be met. The falling off" in the
importations of stock from the continent has
contributed to give stability to prices, and we may
safely conclude that any serious decline in the quo-
tations is out of the question. Lean stock, as

T 2

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

266

might be anticipated, is selling at enormously high
rates— too high, in our opinion, to admit of small
graziers extending their business; and another
feature in connection with feeding is the comparative
scarcity of good food in some parts of England.
The yield of the hay crop has turned out very
inferior to last year ; the supply on most farms
being by no means so good or so fine as could
be desired. We may observe, however, that
the turnip and carrot crops are likely to be unusually
large. Should they come up to present expecta-
tions, the supply of winter food will be large.

The presence of cholera in the metropolis has had
a most depressing influence upon the veal trade,
and a rapid fall has taken place in prices.

The following are the imports of foreign stock
into London during the month : — Head.

Beasts 5,506

Sheep 19,770

Lambs 1,178

Calves 2,495

2,176

CORRESPONDING PERIODS.

IMPORTS AT

Aug.

Beasts.

1847 ..

.. 4,185.

1848 ..

.. 2,526.

1849 ..

.. 2,913.

1850 ..

.. 4,277.

1851 ..

.. 5,342.

1852 ..

.. 5,316.

1S53 ..

.. 4,929.

Sheep. Lambs. Calves.
.18,489.. 874.. 1,942..
,14,266.. 871.. 2,135..
,15,981.. 1,179.. 1,000..
.17,376.. 2,370.. 1,945..
.24,342.. 4,431.. 2,569. .
.23,623.. 3,576.. 2,867..
,22,436.. 2,579.. 2,908..

Pigs.

302

581

2,009

1,856

2,055

COMPARISON OF PRICES.

At the outports about 4,000 head of stock have
been landed, chiefly from Spain and Holland ; but
they have been received in very middling condition.
The annexed statement shews the total supplies of
English and foreign stock shown in Smithfield : —

Head.

Beasts 21,384

Cows 530

Sheep and lambs 164,920

Calves 4,286

Pigs 3,870

STOCK SHOWN AT CORRESPONDING PERIODS.
Beasts. Sheep & Lambs.

1849 18,133.. ..173,620..

1850 19,390 181,490..

1851 20,317 181,900..

1852 21,049 165,770..

1853 24,345. . . . 172,102. .

About 10,000 short-horns have been received
from Lincolnshire, Leicestershire, and Northamp-
tonshire. The arrivals from other parts of England
have been under 3,000 of various breeds ; and from
Scotland, 350 horned and polled Scots. Beef has
sold at from 3s. 2d. to fully 5s.; mutton, 3s. 4d.
to 5s.; lamb, 4s. 2d. to 5s. 6d.; veal, 3s. 2d. to
4s. 6d.; pork, 3s. 4d. to 4s. 8d. per 8 lbs., to sink
the offals.

Calves.

Pigs.

2,480..

. . 2,200

2,348..

..2,291

2,648..

. . 2,732

3,350..

..2,785

3,431..

..2,990

August,

1850.

August, 1851.

s. d.

s. d. s. d.

Beef . . from

2 6 to 3 10 0.

. . 2 4 to 3 6

Mutton ....

3 2

4 2..

.. 2 10 3 10

Lamb

3 6

4 6..

.. 3 10 4 10

Veal

3 0

4 0..

..2 4 3 6

Pork

3 2

4 0..

..2 4 3 8

August,

1852.

August, 1853.

s. d.

s. d. s. d.

Beef . . from

2 4

4 0..

..3 0 4 6

Mutton ....

2 6

4 2..

..3 4 5 0

Lamb

4 0

5 2..

..4 6 6 0

Veal

2 8

4 0 .

..3 4 5 0

Pork

2 6

3 6..

..3 0 4 0

The prevailing hot weather has operated as a
serious check to the trade in Newgate and Leaden-
hall, yet the general quotations have ruled high.
Beef has sold at from 3s. to 4s. 8d. ; mutton,
3s. 4d. to 4s. 8d.; lamb, 4s. 2d. to 5s. 4d.; veal,
2s. lOd. to 4s. 4d.; and pork, 3s. 4d. to 4s. 8d.
per Bibs, by the carcase.

M I D - K E N T .
When I last wrote you, the staple crop of this district —
"the hops" — looked very bad certainly, but not worse than
they had been known to do on former occasions at the same
time, and afterwards recovered. Unfortunately, however, there
is no recovery this year, and those which were bad in June and
July are worse now, with some slight exception of here and
there a piece not severely attacked, which the fine weather ia
July improved very much, while at the same time it was fatal
to those which were much diseased — they being unable to
bear again so much sunshine. The result is, that the crop of
hops is calculated not to amount to more than one-fourth or
perhaps one-fifth of an average one. Now it is easy to infer
that being so much below the standard of consumption, the
price must necessarily advance. This, however, has in a
measure been neutralized by the late act of the Legislature
reducing the duty of foreign hops, as well as other causes dif-
ficult to explain, but, as will be known, the price of hops has
always been fluctuating. Not unfrequently the same descrip-
tion of hops will realize three times the amount at one season
that they will command at another ; and the plant itself is
also of that changeable uncertain character as to coincide with
such fluctuations. Speculators on the crop therefore estimate
its extent by the amount of duty, and a sort of gambling has
sprung up, based on that source of revenue, and some of our
speculating men calculated the crop to amount to no more than
would pay £40,000 duty at one time, while a good season
exceeds £200,000 ; however, the prospect has brightened a
little, and £70,000 seems more likely to be the sum named.
However, as my purpose is to describe the crop, I may say that
it presents many features : those which were not very severely
attacked by vermin in early spring, and had received judicious
management during the summer, have turned out well since
the hot weather set in; while many that were in the last stage
of disease had their period of existence hastened by that
change, and soon after looked as black as the autumn foliage
of trees in a city. Some there are of a medium quality — the
really good being the fewest of any. Speaking of corn, I may
say that the wheat looks remarkably well everywhere, but it is
very late — much of it being far from ripe yet (the 10th of
August), while oats are still later, and 1 think hardly so good
as the wheat. Barley is not extensively grown here, neither
is it of the best quality, but it is tolerably good : straw, of
course, being plentiful. Beans are far from good : a blight
having affected the bloom, they have not set well, and an im-
moderate amount of stalk is the consequence. Peas have been
good, but the late rains have not benefited them much : thus

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

267

I hear of great losses in that crop. Our hay crop was various,
and the getting of it in was equally so : the early and late
seasons being good, while the middle was wet, and much hay
was spoiled in consequence. However, the subsequent rains
have kept up the feed tolerably plentiful, and been useful to
other green crops. Turnips looking pretty well when they
were down ; but the great bulk of that crop are those that are
sown after harvest on newly ploughed up stubble, which this
season will be late ; neveitheless, on the whole the
season has been more favourable than the one last year, so
that the fallows, fruit plantation, hop garden, &c., look much
cleaner than they did then, and, if we be favoured by fine
weather to secmre the corn, I think the season may, on the
whole, be called a productive one, despite the hops, which are
certainly bad, and just around here of more consequence than
anything else — so much capital being at stake in their culture.
Potatoes I had almost forgot to say are good, and but very few
traces of disease : the crop is also very abundant — better than
for many years past. The fruit, of which much is over now,
has been various : the quality not being good, while the
quantity was sufficiently large, except in currants, which have
been thin. I cannot close the article without mentioning an
incident in the way of cautioning some of your agricultural
friends who may be in the habit of stacking hay in buildings ;
for a neighbour of mine imprudently stacked some in his barn,
which overheated, fired, and the whole farm-buildings, with a
stack of beans and some old hay in a stack near by, was totally
consumed. Such disasters are I am aware not solitary, but
they ought to be less frequent, and the insertion of this may
add another link to the chain of evidence against such pro-
ceedings. I might also add that the tenant was not insured,
and must consequently^be a heavy loser, * *

DEKBYSHIKE.

We are coming gradually into the throng ot our corn-
harvest. Reaping has commenced in the south of the county.
In some localities, corn will not be ripe within the month, so
great is the diversity of soil and climate. The western and
north-western districts are always late. Where reaping has
begun, the wheat crop cuts up well — everywhere well headed.
Some fields will cut up light for bulk, but all must yield well.
Bailey is an excellent crop — perhaps, never better. Oats are
more varied, but, taken as a whole, will be an average crop.
The bean crop is deficient, and very filthy. We trust a
gracious Providence may favour us with fine weather, to secure
so bountiful a harvest. The hay harvest is nearly over. It
has been a tedious affair, and some part of the crop has not
been well secured. As regards bulk, the crop has been a
light one. The potato crop promises hetter than it has done
for several years last past. The complaints about the disease
are very few, and what we have seen are splendid specimens.
Should we be spared the evil, we shall have a most ample re-
turn of this crop, which will tell upon the bread question.
The breadth planted was very great ; and as far as we can
now calculate, the return will be most abundant. The turnip
crop is a good one. Some fields there are which form the
exception. They have been managed in a slovenly manner
throughout, and are now a disgrace to the owners. Those
who mean to grow turnips must never begrudge the expense.
We consider there is no great secret about them : we never
have a failure. Plenty of manure and plenty of labour are the
two main ingredients in the receipt. Our fat stock markets
are without much variation. Lean stock lower, arising from
the scarcity of food. The pastures are everywhere very bare,
and the aftermaths will be very light. The demand for labour
continues unprecedented. It has been, in many localities, a
most difficult matter to get half a sufficiency to secure the hay
crop ; and how the corn crop is to be gathered is no mean
problem to solve. The crops in the locality where the writer
resides will be ready to cut in a week, and now every hand is
employed at high wages ; but where cne extra hand is to be
had from, he knows not, to begin the harvest with. It will be
doubtful if money wUl obtain a sufficiency. We thought the
reaping machines were to have come in to our aid, with vast
improvement ; but farmers now look on them as fancy traps.
We examined those exhibited at Lincoln, but think the prin-
ciples of all wrong. To state what wages are would be diffi-

cult, but those you meet with modestly ask you 30s. per week
The labour question is becoming as important a one as rent,
and, on many arable farms, is equal to a rise of twenty per
cent. We have always expressed our satisfaction at the la-
bourers' prospect. It is cheering to have no complaining in
our streets ; but how far this labour question will eventually
affect other interests of the community, we are not able to
define. We can only say we never knew it so scarce. —
August 17.

SOUTH YORKSHIRE.
Upon the weather of the forthcoming month depends, in
great measure, the successful labour, or otherwise, of the
husbandman, during the past year. All things considered, a
more gratifying period never presented itself. Corn crops are
daily arriving at a state of maturity, and will henceforth gra-
dually fall before the hands of the reapers. Pastures have
received material benefit from late rains ; while turnips, in-
fluenced by the same cause, generally look full of growth, and
promise a satisfactory crop. Thus, with the blessing of Pro-
vidence, we trust plenty will be everywhere found, and avert
in some degree the horrors of famine and war. We have now
written of the appearance of this district in general ; but,
looking at matters separately, we find wheat extremely va-
riable in condition, quantity and quality. On some lands,
cutting has already commenced : on these, quality and quan-
tity are alike good. On others, some time must elapse before
it is ready ; consequently, it will be in a greater measure liable
to atmospheric influences. In some few districts, it is seriously
mildewed ; and the crop put down at from thirty to thirty- six
bushels per acre is only now credited with six or nine. Hap-
pily, such disastrous instances are rare ; nevertheless, they do
exist. Rust has also shown itself with very injurious effect.
We never saw less laid corn. The checks which the plant
received in spring, rendering it thin upon the ground, has in-
creased the strength of the straw, and so been the means of
protecting it from the more than average fall of rain during
the latter part of July and early days of August. We find
very few really extraordinary crops, as we have sometimes
done in former years. The prospect of sixty bushels per acre
is this season, indeed, a very rare instance. On the whole,
therefore, while we have known years when there were many
heavier crops than this, yet we have seen none where there
was so much land under wheat cultivation; and although
covered with less than an average number of plants, yet the
very favourable time for the flowering and feeding of the ears
must ultimately, with a propitious harvest time, give a more
than average yield. The crop of barley will prove decidedly
the best of the year, although the last season will not be ready
for the scythe for some time to come. The whole, or nearly
so, of the early-sown will be ready to cut during the forth-
coming week (August 14). In some districts, it is badly laid,
and will require great care in harvesting, clover and seeds
having grown through it, consequently requiring a greater
length of time before it is ready for stacking. We have had
one or two samples shown to us ; but their colour and quality
did not come up to our anticipation, having evidently dried
too quickly. Beans promise well ; and, although in some
situations upon the limestone filth was at one time complained
of, they have podded well, and will ultimately give a fair crop,
but are good where they were sown early, but bad where
sowing was deferred. The wet weather has been the preser-
vation of the turnip crop. Previously to the rain, the " finger-
and toe" disease was very generally manifesting itself to an
alarming extent. In some instances, too, we also notice that
they have come up only partially, although in these we believe
their absence is much to be accounted for by careless and
improper drilling, as well as by the use of artificial tillages,
which prove certain destruction to the seed when placed in too
great proximity. They, however, now manifest a healthy
growth ; and in more minutely inspecting a crop of " Orange
Jelly," we were much surprised to find such fine bulbs, and of
a quality superior to anything we had before observed. Their
hoeing, with the exception of those sown after tares, has been
completed; and the workmen were never more generally
ready for the commencement of harvest, the slight delay
having enabled us to bring up all arrears of work, and make
foldyards ready for autumn and winter feeding. JMauy have

268

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

bf e 1 adopting the plan of the East Riding farmers, by muck-
ing their seeds intended for wheat with the uiafermented
litter. Upou the Yorlishire wolds, this system has long been
highly approved of, and attended with perfect success. Pota-
toes generally look more healthy than of late years ; and, so
fai, we see few indications of disease, which will, it is hoped,
improve their yield. At present, they come to the markets in
plenty, and realize from 2s. 4d. to 23. 6d. per bushel. The
markets for grain are altogether influenced by the weather ;
but the harvest is not sufficiently advanced at present to jus-
tify any further material reduction in the value of old grain,
as some time must elapse before new is in a proper state to
grind by itself. Stocks of old in farraers' hands are iiuprece-
dentedly low. Wool has shown an improved tendency in its
value, and at the advanced prices many lots have changed
hands. At our late fairs, little has been done in the sale of
lean stock ; and although fat has shown a depressing value,
improved pastures and a good aftermath enable sellers to
hold on.— Aug, 14.

EDINBURGHSHIRE.
Since our last, favourable weather has preponderated, and
the progress of the various crops towards m.aturity has been on
the whole satisfactory. Harvest has now commenced along the
coast, and in early localities, and would be prosecuted with
vigour if the weather settle dry and favourable. The result
of many inquiries and our own observation leads us to the
conclusion that the wheat crop will be about an average one,
while barley and oats will rather exceed an average ; but so
little of the new crop has been thrashed out, that we are still
unable to say anything in regard to quality ; and at all events
this must yet depend in great measure on the character of the
weather during harvest, as scarcely a sheaf is yet secured in
the yards. Fortunately there are plenty of reapers, including
a fair sprinkling of Bell's machines, which appear to do the
work pretty satisfactorily. The potato crop still keeps tolerably
sound, though of late unfavourable reports increase, and fears
are entertained that more or less loss will again be sustained
in this crop ; iu the meantime, however, it is satisfactory to
the growers in this county that the disease baa not up to this
time committed such ravages as in other parts of the country.
The breadth of land under this crop is very large, and we
should estimate it at a fourth more than in any year since
1846, and probably it was never exceeded previous to that
year; consequently the individual interest iu the crop is very
important, and the farmer's profit will be very much influenced
by the issue of the crop. At present, though the market is
well supplied at moderate prices, there is no semblance of
a glut such as we have sometimes experienced about this
period, when the farmers, frightened by the progress of
disease, rushed their produce to market irrespective of price.
Turnips are everywhere a luxuriant crop, and should they
continue to grow as they have done, we may expect iu their
maturity a very gratifying result. Grain markets have been
seasonably well supplied by the farmers, especially with wheat
and barley, and under the influence of dull reports and
drooping currencies from the south, the trade here has been
very lifeless, and the fall in the price of wheat and barley has
rather exceeded the pace in Mark Lane. The stocks in far-
mers' hands are now greatly reduced, indeed we never saw
the yards so thoroughly cleared in this county as at the pre-
sent moment. The imports from abroad are also falling off,
and the stocks in the seaports must be diminishing ; so that
millers will be of necessity thrown upon the resources of the
new crop at an earlier period and in a greater degree than
usual ; and much may depend on the scale in which faimers
bring forward their new crop for regulating prices during the
next three months. Stock markets have been very heavy,
and the tendeiicy of prices has been decidedly downwards. At
some of the principal provincial lamb markets held recently
prices have ruled 23. to 43. a-head under those of last year.
Wool is 30 per cent, cheaper since last year. — Aug. 25.

BUCKWHEAT TO KILL QUACK (SWITCH?) GRASS.
— Eds. Rural: — I have read with considerable attention
your correspondents' articles on the subject of exterminating
quack, and think they are very good, but think that we have a

way here in old Herkimer that is better than under-draining or
summer fallowing. Under-draining of itself will not kill the
quack, but summer fallowing will, if it is well attended to.
The way we take to exterminate it is simply to " choke it out,"
by sowing a grain that has a rapid growth, and which covers
the ground so completely as to give the quack no chance for
" breathing." This grain is buckwheat. The mode of pro-
cedure is to plough the ground in the fall, and again in the
spring; then harrow the ground two or three times, at in-
tervals of two weeks, or oftener if the quack grows very fast :
be sure to keep the quack down, so that the blades get no
more than three or four inches long. Sow between the 12th
of June and the 1st of July. Use half a bushel of seed more
per acre than is usually sown. If the ground is not strong
enough to bring a heavy growth of straw, use manure freely,
as the object is to promote a heavy growth of straw, that will
effectually smother any plant that is under it. The advantage
this method has over that of summer fallowing is, that summer
fallowing only kills what quack is brought on top of the
ground by the plough and harrow, the rest is left free to
sprout and grow again ; and as long as it has a chance to
sprout, it will retain life. Buckwheat kills it by stopping its
lungs (leaves) ; and the next year, the ground, when turned
over, will have the appearance of a half decayed straw-stack,
thereby giving it an excellent coat of manure, — J. A. W.—
Mohawk, June 1854.

GURISEYISM AS APPLIED TO GRAZING.— About
two years since the spirited owners of the Pinchbeck Flax
Rettery, near Spalding, Lincolnshire, requiring additional
space upon which to dry their flax, applied to the proprietor of
an adjoining arable field of 20 acres for its use. Being a
thoughtful farmer, somewhat of the old school, and a clever
man of business, he did not forget what " spreading flax" did
for land forty years ago ; and desiring to retain his land, as
also to accommodate his neighbours, he at length made a
proposal which has proved advantageous to both. The land
was let upon lease for 21 years, divided into four equal parts,
and laid down to grass — the proprietor to retain the use of the
grass. One of these divisions is at all times, and in alternate
courses, to be cleared for the stock ; and no flax is to remain
on the ground to dry longer than 14 days, so that the drying,
clearing, and stocking shall proceed as uniformly as possible.
In this way it frequently follows that more than one part is at
liberty to receive the stock ; but more generally three parts
are under the flax in its various stages, and only one stocked.
The great fact, however, is this : that, notwithstanding tram-
ways and trampling, laying out and gathering in, &c., this
field of 20 acres has well and satisfactorily grazed during the
summer no less than 267 large long-woolled hogget sheep.
Surely this is great proof of the value of the system : it ought
to be more extensively tried, and proper results given, both
experimentally and scientifically.

NEW WEATHER-GLASS.— For some years I have been
in the habit of watching the condition of the gum in my wife's
camphor bottle, which stands in our bed-room ; and when not
disturbed, it makes a capital weather-glass. It answers my
purpose as well as a barometer that would cost me twenty-five
or fifty dollars. When there is to be a change of weather, from
fair to windy or wet, the thin flakes of the gum will rise up ;
and sometimes, when there was to be a great storm, I have seen
them at the top. When they settle down clearly at the
bottom, then we are sure of grand weather. Any farmer who
will watch his wife's camphor bottle for a season, will never
have occasion to watch the birds, or locusts, or ants, for indica-
tions of a change in the weather. — Literary Journal.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

METEOROLOGICAL DIARY.

Barometer.

1854.

July 22

Aug. 1

8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
^ 17
18
19
20
21

i a.m.

in. cts.
30.22
30.22
30.16
30.11
30.12
30.11
30.19
30.21
30.03
29.84
29.69
29.73
29.83
29.92
29.97
30.06
30.06
30.06
30.00
29.90
29.93
29.98
29.92
29.76
29.86
29.87
30.00
30.10
30.16
30.05
29.90

10p.m.

in. cts.
30.20
30.15
30.11
30.11
30.10
30.16
30.20
30.11
29.90
29.70
29.71
29.80
29.88
29.92
30.05
30.07
30.06
30.00
29.91
29.85
29.98
29.92
29.80
29.85
29.87
29.96
30.02
30.15
30.10
30.10
29.77

Thermometer.

Min.

62
60
63
63
65
60
57
49
59
62
*

52
58
51
52
53
53
52
56
58
56
59
56
63
56
53
48
46
53
59
58

Max.

85
86
87
88
75
72
69
74
82

77
*

74:

59
56
59
6Q
65
73
72

80
73
69
67
62
69
74

7Q
69

lOp.m
66

70
63
63

52i

58*

Wind and State.

Direction.

S. West
Every way

East
N. East
E. N. E.
E. N. E.

N. N. E.
S. East
southerly
S. West
3. Westerly
W. N. W.
N. N. E.
N. N. E.
N.,N. by W.
North
N. East
Westerly
South, var.
W. by S. by N
N.W., S.W.
S. West
South
S. West
S. West
W. by N.
N. West
W. by N.
W. by South
S. West
S. West

Force.

airy

var.

brisk

lively

strong

brisk

lively

gentle

var.

lively

airy

brisk

airy

gentle

var.

lively

fresh

gentle

airy

gentle

lively

Atmosphere.

8 a.m.

fine

cloudy

fine

cloudy

fine

cloudy

fine

cloudy

fine

cloudy

fine

cloudy

fine

cloudy

2 p.m.jlOp.m.

clear

smoky

fine

cloudy

fine

cloudy

fine

clear

fine

cloudy

fine

clear

fine

cloudy

clear

fine

sun

cloudy

fine

sun

cloudy

sun

fine

sun

cloudy

sun

fine

sun

cloudy

fine

cloudy

sun

cloudy

Weat'r.

dry

rain

showery

wet

showery

dry

showery

dry

showery

Estimated Averages of August.

Barometer.
Highest I Lowest.
30.26 I 29.35

Real Average Temperature of the Period.

Highest.
72.5

Lowest.
56.4

Mean,
64.45

Weather and Phenomena.

July 22. Glorious day; sun heat, at 4.5 p.m.,
124 degrees. 23. Beautiful till about 5 p.m., then
a smoky haze. 24. Sun sets as a red globe. 25.
Superb. 26. Strong current ; lower clouds rapid ;
upper scarcely move. 27. Cold air. 28. The
easterly \vind very ungenial. 29. Change ap-
proaches : black stratus clouds. 30. Distant thun-
der ; great heat again. 31. Rain commences late
in the evening; 3-lOths of inch reported.

Lunation.— New Moon, 25th day, 3h. 15 m.
morning.

* August 1. Fine till 4 p.m. ; close shower; heat
not taken, being absent. 2, Showery p.m. 3, 4,
5. The easterly winds, as usual, this year have
brought cold and rain. 6, 7. Much improved, 8,

Summer day. 9. Heavy clouds ; clearing off,
10, 11, 12, Fine harvest weather; some clouds,
13. Very hot, close ; overcast evening. 14. A mere
sprinkle. 15, 16, 17. Change of wind, again
bringing showers and low temperature. 18, 19.
Harvest days. 20. A shower early, but a perfect
summer day. 21, Close and oppressive; a few
light sprinkUngs,

Lunations. — First quarter, 1st day, 10 h. 28 m,
morning. Full, 8th day, 1 h. 17 m. afternoon.
Last quarter, 15th day, 1 h, 50 m. afternoon.

Remarks connected with Agriculture.
— Our Comparative Prospects, In July,
the entire volume of rain amounted to about 2^
inches. In the July of 1853, it measured 5 inches
90 cents. The total of August instant (to the 18th
day) stands at 1 j inches, the chief of it on the 2nd
and 3rd days ; that of 1853 (to the 18th) was below
3-lOths of an inch. But then rain came on just at
the critical period of harvest, and nearly 2 inches
of water were measured. The rains of the present
month were mostly propitious for the fodder and
root crops, without causing any injury to the corn.
Reaping, weathering, and carrying proceed steadily,
and our harvest-home is of rich promise.

Croydon, Aug 22. J. Towers.

270

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

AGRICULTURAL INTELLIGENCE, FAIRS, &c.

BEDALE FORTNIGHT FAIR.— We had a small show
of cattle, which was equal to the demand, and prices as before.
A large number of mutton sheep had ready sale. Beef, 63. 6d.
to 7s. per stone ; mutton, 6d. to 6^d. per lb.

CARNWATH LAMB FAIR.— The show was comprised
principally of blackfaced lambs, with a few lots of good Che-
■viots and greyfaced ; also a limited number of half-bred. There
was an average show, at least, and the stock was good and
fresh. The buyers were few — more especially from England
and the Border counties. This market was considered to be
the dullest ever seen here ; and one particular reason assigned
is the unexpected number of north country lambs that are now
shown here — being a new feature in this market — which had
the effect, along with the short number of buyers, of making
it a very dull one for stock brought from the Higlilands or the
south of Scotland.

ELGIN MARKET.— There was a large and excellent dis-
play of all kinds of cattle, and a good attendance of dealers,
but the market was remarkably stiff. The prices sought in
the earlier part of the day were so high that purchasers would
not listen to them, and the consequence was that scarcely a
transaction took place until towards the afternoon, when
sellers began to lower their tone a little. It required hard
driving, however, to do business at even the following figures,
which are very high : — Mr. Mackessack, Grangegreen, sold a
lot of two-year-old crosses at £20 (the top figure of the
market), and another lot at the same price ; Mr. Scott, Man-
been, sold a lot of do., at £16 ; Mr. Cruikshank, Newfield, a
lot of do., at £14 ISs., and another lot at £12 5s.; Dr. Ross,
Linksfield, a lot of do , at £15 ; Mr. Cruikshank, Cloves, a
lot of three-year-olds, at £14 ; Mr. Sellar, Westfield, a lot of
two-year-olds at £13, and a lot at £8; Mr. Cruickshank,
Lochs, a lot of three-year-olds (Highlanders), at £12 Ss. ; Mr.
Leslie, Rothes, a lot of two-year-old stots £11 ISs. ; Mr.
Mackessack, Miltonbrae, a lot of two-year-olds, polled, at £12 ;
Mr. Macdonald, Hillside, a lot of do., at £11 5s. ; Mr. Anton,
Coltfield, a lot of two-year-old polled stots, at £12 ; Mr. Hoyes,
Kinneddar, a lot of two-year-old crosses, at £12 10s. ; Mr.
Cruickshank, Barmuckity, a lot of two-year-olds at £9 lOs. ;
Mr. Grigor, Findrassie, a lot of two-year-old queys, at £9 10s.,
&c. &c. The best beasts were all sold ; but a considerable
number, not remarkable for good qualities, left the green with-
out a purchaser. In milch cows very few transactions took
place. The prices sought were very high — from £12 to £25.
There were a few sheep on the ground, which were sold at a
late hour at a pretty high figure.

GLOUCESTER MONTHLY MARKET.— The supply
of cattle and sheep was unusually small for the season of the
year, consequently the trade was very brisk. Beef sold readily
at from 6|d. to Id., mutton 6|d. to 7d., lamb 7^d. to 8d. per
lb. ; pigs from 10s. to lis. per score. The market was cleared
at an early hour.

IPSWICH LAMB FAIR.— The number of lambs penned
was above the average of the last seven years, there being at
least 40,000 head. Trade throughout was exceedingly slow
and uusatisfactory. On Tuesday there was scarcely anything
done until the afternoon, when a few sales were effected by the
holders slightly giving way. The lambs were not in such fine
condition as last year by fully Is. per head, and compared with
that date prices were from 3s. to 4s. per head lower. There
was a fair inquiry for dark-faced ewe lambs for breeding pur-
poses, which fetched from 26s. to 31g. each. Mr. Dakiug, of
Washbrook, sold a fine lot at 28s., and Mr. Miller, of Boyton,
realized 26s. for a pen of the same description, and 18s. for a
lot of wethers. Mr. Everett, of Brightwell, had a tine pen of
Downs, which were sold at 243. per head. Mr. WoUon, of
Newbourne, exhibited a large pen of beautiful pure Downs ;
but though many inquiries were made, there was no satisfac-
tory offer, and they quitted the fair unsold. Of the flocks be-
longing to Lady Harlaud, a pen of white- faced were disposed
of for 27s. 6d. ; the other pens, consisting of Downs and half-
breds, found no buyers at the prices demanded. At the re-
sumption of business on Wednesday morning, no satisfactory

change took place in prices ; in fact the sellers were obliged to
submit to still lower terms before a transfer could be made. As
on the previous day, the greater part of the stock remained un-
sold. There was an unusual quantity of store sheep shown, but
the demand was principally for dark-faced breeding ewes, for
which from 38s. to 44s. per head were freely given. The show
of fat sheep was the smallest ever known. There was, how-
ever, much inquiry for this description of stock, and we believe
one or two lots sold at 8d. per lb. by weight. As usual, the
tups shown by Mr. Sexton, of Wherstead, were justly admired.
There was a large show of Irish beasts, in poor condition, but
very few sales were effected, and the fat beef was not worth
mentioning. Mr. Edwick and other dealers brought a large
number of serviceable ponies into the field, which met a ready
sale at high prices.

KILGERRAN FAIR.— This fair was attended with cattle
and dealers, and much business was done for good prices.
Although we cannot quote any advance,[yet the trade was
active and in a healthy state, and not as it has been for the last
two months ; yet young cattle and sheep were of a slow sale ;
but every other kind of stock was selling well.

LALESTON FAIR.— The attendance was small in conse-
quence of the weather, and the fair being but little known, as
it has been only lately established. The cattle were sold at
lower rates than at previous fairs in the neighbourhood.

LINCOLN FAT STOCK MARKET.— There was only a
short supply of both beasts and sheep, and consequently prices
were a trifle higher thau our last quotations. Beef realized
from 7s. to 7s. 9d. per stone ; and Mutton, 6d. to 7d. per lb.

LUDLOW FAIR was well supplied. Pork at late quota-
tions; Mutton, 6 jd. to 7d. per lb. ; good store ewes in request
at high rates. Beef of best quality from 6d. to 7d. ; prime
steers sold exceedingly well. A large fair of horses and carters
sought after at satisfactory prices, but at less rates than some
few months past.

MARLBOROUGH LAMB FAIR was well attended, and
many of the pens were remarkable for symmetry and shape. A
very large number were penned, trade ruled brisk, and prices
took an upward tendency, realizing fully 2s. per head above
the price obtained at Tan-hill. The following prizes were
awarded ; and it was the subject of general observation that
no prizes were ever awarded with more judgment, or were
better deserved : — Prize 1. A piece of plate of the value of
£7, for the best 100 wether lambs, bred by the competitor,
and not having been fed on any artificial food, Mr. Vaisey,
Grove-farm. Prize 2. A piece of plate of the value of £3,
for the second best 100 wethers, bred by the competitor, and
not having been fed on any artificial food, W. B. Canning,
Esq., Chisledon. Prize 3. A piece of plate of the value of
£7, for the best 100 ewes, good in tooth, bred by the com-
petitor, and not having been fed on any artificial food, R.
Canning, Esq., Ramsbury-park. Prize 4. A piece of plate
of plate of the value of £3, for the second best ditto, Mr.
Wentworth, Avebury. Similar prizes to the above will be
offered at the fair on the 23rd November, but without restric-
tion as to feeding.

MARTOCK FAIR was well supplied with sheep, there
being nearly 1,000 penned. Beasts and pigs were also plen-
tiful. A good sale was effected at the following prices : —
Beef, 10s. to lOs. 6d. per score; barreners, II. to 121. each j
mutton, 5^d. to G^d. per lb. ; Pigs at former rates.

NEW ROMNEY FAIR.— Up to two o'clock, the number
of lambs sold was 8,759, in 93 lots, averaging 22s. 75d. each.
Of old sheep there had been 1,995 sold in 37 lots, averaging
35s. lOd, each ; 101 ewe tegs in four lots, averaging SOs. 3d.;
2,256 wether tegs, in 11 lots, averaging 34s. 9d. ; 199 two-year
old wethers, in 7 lots, averaging 573. ; 10 maiden barrens, in
one lot, averaging 46s. The total number penned was 18,262 ;
last year there were 12,500 penned.

PENRITH FORTNIGHTLY FAIR.— There was the
largest show of fat sheep and lambs, &c., we remember seeing
this season. The butchers found fat a good deal better to buy,
prices being 5^i. to 6d. per lb., sinking offal.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

271

PEIDDY FAIR was well supplied with all kinds of stock,
but the sale was dull at downward prices. The horse fair was
not so well attended as on former occasions, and the sale was
bad ; a decline of full 20 per cent, on horses has taken place in
the last three months. There were not many sold. — SJier-
lorne Journal.

RUGBY FAIR.— Beef, 6id, to 6id. ; mutton, 6d. to 7d.
per lb. ; all sold. Stores dull of sale, at sinking prices. It
was a large fair, and well attended.

SHREWSBURY FAIR.— There were plenty of buyers,
and a large supply of stock of all kinds, which were cleared off
early at good prices. Beef made 6d. to 6|d., but the prevail-
ing price was 6 Jd. ; veal 6d., wether mutton 6|d. to 7d., fat
lambs 6|d. to 7d., porkets 5|d. to 6d. Store cattle and good
cows and calves sold well ; store pigs unaltered.

ST. LAWRENCE FAIR.— The supply of cattle was large,

and the sale for all descriptions was remarkably good, at about
the same prices as have been lately realized.

THURSBY LAMB FAIR was well supplied with lambs,
both of the Cheviot and half-breds, in good condition. Al-
though the amount of business done was not so extensive aa
on previous occasions, yet remunerative prices were obtained
for those sold, the prices varying from lis. 6d. to 19s. each.

YORK FORTNIGHT MARKET.— The supply of and
demand for fat beasts were about equal, at from 6s. 6d. to 7s,
6d. per stone, as per quality. The show of mutton was above
the demand, trade being heavy, at from 5|d. to 6|d. per lb., as
per weight and quality. Grazing sheep and lambs were in
great supply, with very heavy sale ; prices tended downwards,
and many unsold. Lean beasts, in English, Irish, and Scotch,
were in good supply, with slow sale, at prices in favour of the
buyer. Calving and dairy cows were in about equal supply
and demand, at lowering rates.

REVIEW OF THE CORN TRADE

DURING THE MONTH OF AUGUST.

Though the month of August has nearly been
brought to a close, a very large proportion of the
corn crops of Great Britain still remains unsecured.
The commencement of harvest has this season
been ten days to a fortnight later than the usual
period, and the work has been interrupted from
time to time by showery weather ; indeed, during
the first week in the month, the rain was so heavy and
general, as to put a temporary stop to carting ; and
some mischief was done to the standing corn by wet.
Notwithstanding the disadvantages alluded to, fair
progress has been made during the last fortnight,
and we have reason to conclude that the result of
the harvest will, as a whole, prove satisfactory. It
is yet too early to speak very positively as to either
quantity or quality ; but a general idea may be
formed from what is already known. We have
spared no pains to collect information, and our
friends in diflferent parts of the kingdom have
readily responded to our enquiries.

With regard to wheat, we are inclined to think
that the estimate we ventured to give before cutting
had been commenced, viz., 2i full average in quantity,
will prove rather too low : we have heard of several
instances where the yield to the acre has astonished
the growers ; and though this may be the e.xception
to the rule, still we are inclined to make some
alteration in our previously offered opinion ; and
we now believe that, as far as regards quantity,
there will be a decided excess over ordinary average
seasons. The quality must of course depend on
the weather which may be experienced, as a con-
siderable part — certainly more than one half of the
entire crop — still remains in the field. That which
has been secured presents great variety of quality,
ranging from very inferior to very fine. No better
proof of this can be given than the wide difference

in prices, sales having been made on the same day,
and at the same market, at 50s. and at 70s. per qr.

Barley is a heavy crop. The proportion carried is
probably rather more than of wheat ; but suflieient
is still exposed to render the weather for the next
week or two a matter of serious importance. The
colour has suffered considerably by the wet
weather in the early part of last week, and there
will be a large portion of coarse quality. We
have, however, seen some fine samples ; and even
the discoloured parcels might be manufactured into
good malt, the berry being large and plump, and
the corn kindly and well-matured.

Oats are quite as well spoken of as other sorts of
grain ; but they do not appear to have been so ex-
tensively cultivated on this side of the channel as
in Ireland, and the result of the crop there will
therefore, in a great degree, regulate the future
range of prices. Of this we are not prepared as yet
to report with accuracy ; but we may say that we
have thus far heard few complaints, and we know
that the breadth sown was large.

Beans have suffered from blight, fly, &c., and
will, we believe, give but an indiflferent return.

Peas have yielded well, and are of handsome
quality.

With the single exception of beans (which
crop is not very important), we regard the pro-
bable result of the harvest as highly satisfactory.
The three most important crops — wheat, barley, and
oats — will, there is every reason to conclude, be con-
siderably above an average, and the reign of high
prices may therefore be considered as at an end.
This our agricultural friends will, we are sure, not
regret, so long as they have a prospect of obtaining
something like remunerating rates for their produce,
and we think that this will be the case during the

272

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

next twelve montiis. Stocks of old corn have been
reduced into a very narrow compass in this country,
as well as abroad, in consequence of the great defi-
ciency in the harvest of 1853 in Great Britain,
France, and some of the other continental states ;
and it is not likely therefore that quotations will be
reduced to the level which has prevailed since the
first commencement of free trade. At the same
time, farmers will have to be contented with much
lower prices than those recently current ; good
qualities of wheat will probably range somewhere
between 50s. to 60s., barley about 25s. to 30s. per
qr. ; and other grain and pulse in proportion.

There is one matter of great importance to which
we have not yet referred, viz., the potato crop.
That the root has been attacked by the disease
which has been more or less general since the year
1846, does not admit of doubt. As yet, it is im-
possible to say to what extent the injury may spread;
and when the effects of this visitation in 1846 is
recollected, no surprise can be felt that considerable
uneasiness should prevail on the subject, more
especially as regards Ireland. The accounts from
thence have, within the last few weeks, become
rather alarming ; and making full allowance for the
excitable character of our Irish fellow-subjects,
still we fear that the loss of this useful article of
food will be important. Should it prove as great
as some of the reports from thence are calculated to
make us believe, the prices of grain would no doubt
be influenced thereby after awhile ; but thus far,
the eflfect has been to depress rather than enhance
the value of food, as large quantities of potatoes
have been thrown on the markets, and forced oflf
at the best prices obtainable.

The uncertainty which still attaches to the final
result of the harvest, the prospects of a partial
failure in the potato crop in Ireland, and the ac-
knowledged shortness of stocks of old corn, render
it impossible to speak positively in respect to the
future ; and we wish it therefore to be distinctly
understood that what we have said in the foregoing
part of this article as to the probable value of grain
after harvest shall have been completed, must be
subject to the proviso that the remainder of the
corn crops shall be secured in good order, and the
potato disease prove no worse than it has been for
some years past.

Before dismissing this subject, it may not be out
of place to say a few words in regard to the relative
value which old wheat is likely to maintain. That
it will rule higher than new can scarcely be ques-
tioned. For some time past, the deliveries from the
growers have been so small, that the presumption
is, that most of the farmers have been completely
cleared out, and that we shall have to depend on

granaried stocks of foreign for the required quan-
tity for mixing with the new.

London is nearly the only port in the United
Kingdom at which any large quantity of foreign
wheat is held ; and of what is held here, a great
portion is of inferior quality. It strikes us there-
fore that really fine parcels are not likely to recede
materially in value, more especially as the receipts
from abroad will be comparatively insignificant, the
large shipments made throughout the summer
having drained the different continental ports of
old stocks.

By the official accounts, it appears that the im-
portations into the United Kingdom during the
last three months have been, of wheat and flour, as

follows —

Qrs. Cwt.

Month ending June 5 611,992 373,761

" Julys 357,104 ,...222,479

" Aug. 5 281,950 250,103

The falling off the last two months has, it will be
perceived, been very great ; and at present, there is,
we believe, very little on passage to this country.
A comparison between the above imports and those
in the corresponding months of 1853, may perhaps
prove of some interest. The latter were in the

if heat. Flour.

Month ending June 5 525,000 .... 341,964

" July 5 .... 331,193 369,843

" ug. 5 691,000 .... 379,000

We shall here close our remarks as to the probable
future, and proceed to give our usual retrospect of
the course of the trade during the month, at Mark
Lane.

Until supplies of the new crop began to make
their appearance, the arrivals of homegrown wheat
into the port of London became smaller from week
to week ; and with the addition which has been
lately made by the deliveries of new, the receipts
have thus far been on a very moderate scale.
During the first eight or ten days in August, we
had unsettled weather, with a considerable fall of
heavy rain ; this was not without influence on the
trade, and part of the depression which had taken
place in July was recovered, the sales made on the
fth inst. being at prices 3s. to 4s. per qr. above those
current on that day se'nnight. A week of bright
sunshine sufficed, however, to shake the returning
confidence ; and on the 14th about 2s. per qr. of the
advance was lost. On this day a few parcels of
new wheat were exhibited, principally Talavera, the
growth of Essex ; the best samples were taken by
the town millers at 70s. to 72s. per qr.: the quantity
brought forward up to this time was, however, too
insignificant to allow an opinion to be formed as to
the quality. On the 21st there was abetter supply,
about 1,000 qrs. being shown altogether, of which

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

273

about 700 qrs. were the produce of Essex, 200 qrs.
from Suflfolk, and only 100 qrs, from Kent. The
quahty was extremely various ; some of the Essex
white wheat was so coarse and ill-conditioned that
it was difficult to find buyers for the same at 50s.
to 55s., whilst a lot of Kentish red, also very damp,
sold at 50s. per qr. The better-conditioned quali-
ties brought from 60s. up to"70s. per qr. One lot of
red, about 100 qrs., was exceedingly well-matured,
almost perfect in the berry, and weighed 64lbs.
per bushel : this was readily placed at 67s. per qr.
Old wheat, owing to its extreme scarcity, brought
relatively higher rates ; still, as compared with the
prices of the preceding Monday, a decline of 2s.
per qr. was pretty generally submitted to. From
this period up to the 28th inst., very little change
occurred in quotations : with an increased quantity
of new wheat on Monday, and a want of activity in
the demand, sellers had to make a further conces-
sion; and the fall during the week may be fairly
estimated at about 5s. per qr.

The arrivals of foreign wheat have fallen short
of ."0,000 qrs. this month, which is much below
what we have for a considerable time been in the
habit of receiving : we question, however, whether
stocks in granary have been much diminished, as
the country demand has been of a retail character,
and local buyers have conducted their operations
with extreme caution throughout the month.
The fluctuations in prices have been nearly the
same as those which have taken place in the value
of English wheat. In the early part there was a
rally of a few shillings per qr., which was, however,
subsequently lost, and quotations are now lower
than they were at the close of last month. Within
the last week rather more anxiety to realize has
been displayed by sellers, and very good red Baltic
wheat has been offered at 66s. per qr.

Danzig wheat may be said to range in value
from 62s. to 72s."; but the latter price is only pro-
curable for very superior high mixed, of which the
quantity on the market is trifling.

Quotations of Black Sea wheat are perfectly
nominal ; no disposition having been shown to
purchase these kinds, of which a very large pro-
portion of our granaried stock consists. That the
importers of the same will be very heavy losers
cannot be questioned ; the principal part of what
is held here belongs to Greek firms, who were large
gainers by the high range of quotations last year,
and are believed to be in a position to stand the
consequences of the altered position of affairs.

There has not been much doing in floating cargoes;
still occasional sales have taken place from time to
time during the month. Several cargoes of
Egyptian wheat have changed hands within the
last week or tvvo, at prices ranging from 36s. up to

38s. 6d. per qr., cost, freight, and insurance, whilst
for Marianopli, Berdianski,and similar descriptions,
relatively higher prices have been asked.

The top price of town-made flour, which was put
down at 60s. per sack towards the close of last
month has since been reduced to 55s. The London
bakers have acted as though they reckoned with
confidence on a further fall, declining to
purchase beyond what they have needed from
week to week. The consumption of bread in
the Metropolis has no doubt been diminish-
ed in consequence of the reduced price of
potatoes; and many of the bakers state that they
are not doing nearly their usual amount of business.

Norfolk household flour, after having been done
as low as 43s., rallied to 46s. per sack ; subsequently
a small reaction took place, and last week there
were more sellers than buyers at 45s., which may
be considered to be about the present value.

The importations of flour from America have not
been by any means large, and fresh qualities have
gradually been reduced into a narrow compass.
The ordinary kinds have met with comparatively
little attention, though offered at low rates, whilst
really good sorts have been much sought after, and
have, notwithstanding the fall in wheat, rather
risen than receded in value. Good useful brands
may be quoted from 32s. to 34s., whilst for choice
sorts 36s. per barrel has been realized.

Supplies of old barley of home growth have for
some time past ceased to come forward, and
previous to the new making its appearance, quo-
tations were perfectly nominal. The opening price
for the latter was 32s. to 33s.; higher rates were at
first asked, but the business actually done was, we
believe, at about the terms named. With increased
supphes, the value of the article has given way ;
and on the 23rd inst., very good qualities sold at
30s. per qr. The weight of the new barley is
generally heavy and the berry large, but the colour
not so bright as could be desired. As yet, we
cannot speak positively regarding its malting
qualities ; but we are disposed to think that our
maltsters will experience no difficulty in selecting
samples well adapted for their use. The yield to
the acre is well-spoken of, and the probability is,
that prices will after awhile settle down somewhat
below what they are at present.

The fall in the value of foreign barley has been
considerable since our last; and good Danish has
lately been offered at 27s. to 28'S. per qr., without
exciting much attention. We believe that the bulk
of what is held at this port is the property of the
foreign shippers who have held on too long, and
will be severe losers.

Egyptian barley has become almost unsaleable,
though offered at 21s, to 22s. per qr. in granary.

274

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

Floating cargoes on passage from Alexandria might
now be bought below 20s. per qr., cost, freight, and
insurance; the nett proceeds to the shippers will
therefore be very meagre, freight and insurance
from thence being heavy items.

The malt trade has naturally been influenced by
the depressed state of the barley market. Brewers,
anticipating lower prices, have refused to purchase,
and the operations have been on a very restricted
scale; 70s. per qr. may be regarded as an extreme
quotation, and excellent qualities of ship-malt
might be bought at 65s. per qr.

Though the arrivals of oats of home growth
have been very small, and the importations from
abroad only moderate, this grain has . partici-
pated in the general depression. The down-
ward movement which had already set in last
month, was added to by the knowledge that ship-
ments to a considerable extent had been allowed
to be made from Archangel by neutral flags, and
that we should in all probability receive 100,000
qrs. from thence. As yet, only about a third of
that quantity has reached us ; but the effect has
nevertheless been greatly felt ; the first cargo was
retailed out at 26s. to 27s. per qr. Since then
sales have been made at 20s. 6d, up to 25s. per qr,
according to quality. Other sorts of foreign oats
have receded in nearly the same proportion; good
40lbs, Swedes having been sold at 25s., and fine
Danes at 26s. per qr.

As yet, we have had no supplies of new oats,
either coastwise or from Ireland ; but arrivals may
be shortly looked for, and as the quahty is expected
to be very fine, a further decline in prices of old
foreign is confidently reckoned upon. Old oats
are certainly very scarce ; and unless the new should
prove exceedingly dry, so as to allow of their being
used alone, prices of old cannot well be expected
to give way further.

The continued decline in the value of oats and
feeding barley has naturally had its influence on
beans ; and, notwithstanding the belief that the
crop will prove defective, prices have given way
2s. to 3s. per qr. during the month.

Egyptian beans in granary have lately been
offered at 31s. to 32s. per qr., and purchases of
floating cargoes on passage might be made at 30s.
to 31s. per qr., cost, freight, and insurance.

The quality of the peas of this year's growth is
very satisfactory, and the yield is, we believe, good.
Some of the samples brought forward at Mark
Lane have been of very fine quality. The small
lots which came forward early realized high prices ;
and we believe that 60s. per qr. was exceeded for
superior boilers. Since then, a material decline
has taken place; and on Monday, fine breakers

were obtainable at 48s. to 52s., and grey and maple
peas at from 36s. to 40s. per qr.

A fair extent of business has been done in
Indian corn, and most of the cargoes close at hand
have been disposed of; for Egyptian 25s. to 26s.
per qr. has been paid, cost, freight, and insurance,
whilst fine Galatz has not been oflTered below 35s.
per qr. At Liverpool, considerable purchases have
been made within the last week or two, on Irish
account ; and the latest quotations there, were for
good qualities 33s., up to 36s. for fine per 480lbs.

Should the potato disease spread, Indian corn
might perhaps rise in value ; but America will be
enabled to furnish us with plentiful supplies ; and
we do not, therefore, look for material improvement
under any circumstances.

Before we conclude our remarks, we shall take a
brief review of the position of the corn trade, and
the prospects for the harvest abroad.

In the northern countries of Europe, the crops
are not as yet wholly secured, though carting ap-
pears to have made more progress on the continent
than with us. Letters from Danzig state that
there was still a good deal of corn in the
fields in that neighbourhood ; and in Poland,
harvest had not up to that time been con-
cluded. Wheat IS almost universally described
as a good crop, in quantity as well as in
quality ; and spring corn will, we believe, give a
large yield in all the countries bordered by the
Baltic. Rye has also produced abundantly all over
the North of Europe ; and the only complaint is,
that of a partial failure of the potato crop. Old
stocks of wheat, and indeed of all grain, appear to
be nearly exhausted in the Baltic ; and no supplies
of new having yet come forward, hardly any
business has been done. The last sales re-
ported at Danzig were at 52s. for ordinary old
Polish wheat, weighing 58 to 59lbs., and at 55s.
to 56s. for fair qualities of ditto, weighing 61
to 62lbs. per bushel.

The Silesia and Uckermark wheats will, we be-
lieve, be of fine quality, and give a good yield. The
reports from Pomerania are also favourable ; and we
have as yet heard of no well-founddd complaints from
any quarter. Prices for new wheat have not as yet
been fixed, though a contract is said to have been
concluded at Rostock for a future delivery at 54s.
per qr. free on board. "Whether this be actually the
case or not, we are not in a position to determine ;
but our belief is, that prices will have to recede
below the figure named before business with Great
Britain will become practicable.

Next month we shall probably be able to speak
more positively respecting the result of the harvest
abroad, and the rates at which it may be expected
that contracts for spring delivery may be closed at*

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

275

In France the crops have been for the most
part secured. As regards wheat, we are inclined
to think that the result of the harvest will be
very similar in that country as in this. There
will be great variety of quality ; but a fair propor-
tion will be fine, and the aggregate produce superior
to that of ordinary average seasons, as regards
yield as well as quality. Prices have already fallen
materially in the principal French markets ; and
the decline would probably have been 'greater but
for the smallness of old stocks and the pressing
wants of millers and dealers, who have for months
past been acting on the reserve.

In Spain and Italy the crops have turned out
excellent : from the former country we shall pro-
bably hereafter receive supplies of wheat and flour,
but from Italy exports continue to be prohibited.

The latest advices from America inform us that
harvest was fast drawing to a close even in the
Northern States, and the general result was con-
sidered to be favourable. No supplies of the new
produce had yet come forward, and the quantity
of old wheat and flour on hand having been re-
duced into a very narrow compass, prices had
risen, in the face of the dull English advices and
the prospects of abundant crops.

CURRENCY PER IMPERIAL MEASURE.

Shillin{^s per Quarter

Wheat, Essex and Kent, white. . old 61 to 63 extra 65 70

Ditto new 56 60 „ 62 64

Ditto red, old 58 63 „ 64 65

Ditto new 51 57 „ 58 59

Norfolk, Iincoln.&Yorksh., red.. 50 52 „ 56

Barley, malting, new. . 30 31 .... Chevalier.. 32 33

DistiUiug . . — — ' Grinding. . — —

MALT.Essex, Norfolk, and Suffolk, new 66 67 extra 69

Ditto ditto old 64 65 „ 68

Kingston,Ware, and town made,new70 71 „ 72

Ditto ditto old 68 70 „ 71

Rye — — 38 40

Oats, EngUah feed .. 22 26 Potato.. 26 29

Scotch feed, new 28 29, old 30 31 .. Potato 31 33

Irish feed, white 25 26 fine 28

Ditto, black 18 24 fine 26

Beans, Mazagan 39 41 „ 44 47

Ticks 41 43 „ 45 49

Harrow 43 45 „ 47 51

Pigeon 43 49 „ 50 56

Peas, white boUers 45 50.. Maple 38 40 Grey 35 37

Flour, town made, per sack of 280 lbs. — — „ 50 55

Households, Town 478. 48s. Country — „ 47 48

Norfolk and Suffolk, ex-sliip .... — — „ 40 43
FOREIGN GRAIN.

SbillingfB per Qaarter

Wheat, Dantzic, mixed. . 65 to 67 high mixed — 69 extra 73

Konigsberg 61 67 „ — 67 „ 69

Rostock, new 65 66 fine 67 „ 69

American, white 63 67 red 62 65

Pomera.,Meckbg.,andUckermk.,red 61 65 extra.. 67

Barley, grinding 21 27 Distilling.. 28 30

Oats, Dutch, brew, and Polands 25s., 278. .. Feed .. 22 24

Danish & Swedish feed 258. to 27s. Sti-alsund 26 28

Russian 21 25 French., none

Beans, Friesland and Holstein 40 42

Konigsberg . . 42 44 Egyptian , , 35 36

Peas, feeding 40 46 fine boilers 45 47

Indian Corn, white 35 38 yeUow 35 38

Flour, French, per sack (none) — — none — —

American, sour per barrel 28 30 sweet 31 34

IMPERIAL AVERAGES.

For the last Six Weeks.

Wheat.

Barley.

Oats.

Rye.

Beans

Peas.

Week Ending:

s. d.

8. d.

July 15. 1854..

74 6

36 10

29 8

51 1

48 10

45 9

July 22,1854..

71 10

37 1

30 7

47 9

48 11

45 4

July 29, 1854..

69 8

36 3

29 10

45 8

47 5

47 3

Aug. 5,1854..

64 8

35 9

29 11

43 5

47 4

41 7

Aug. 12,1854..

62 3

34 8

28 11

40 11

45 0

43 6

Aug. 19,1854..

64 0

34 6

27 9

43 1

49 10

44 8

Aggregate average

of last six weeks

67 10

35 10

29 5

45 4

47 11

44 8

Comparative avge.

same time lastyear

52 0

29 6

21 11

35 6

40 8

36 6

Duties ' 1 0

1 0

COMPARATIVE PRICES AND QUANTITIES
OF CORN.

Averages from last Friday's

Averages from the correspond

Gazette.

Av.

ing Gazette in 1853

Av.

Qrs.

s. d.

Qrs.

8. d.

Wheat..

.. 45,925 .

. 64 0

Wheat.... 76,976 ..

51 1

Barley. .

.. 2,212 .

. 34 6

Barley.... 1,896 ..

29 7

Oata ..

. 7,492 .

. 27 9

Oats .... 8,271 ..

22 0

Rye....

43 .

. 43 1

Rye 113 ..

34 10

Beans . .

.. 3,457 .

. 49 10

Beans.... 3,117 ..

40 11

Peas ..

197 .

. 44 8

Peas .... 476 ..

34 9

DIAGRAM SHOWING THE FLUCTUATIONS IN THE
AVERAGE PRICE OF WHEAT during the SIX

WEEKS ENDING AUG. 19, 1854.

Price.

July 15.

July 22.

July S9.

Aug. 5.

74s. 6d.

«>-._-

71s. lOd.

.. *■

_••.—>,

69s. 8d.

.. s-

"""l

64s. 8d.

64s. Cd.

62s. 3d.

• •

,, L

Aug. 12,

PRICES OF SEEDS.

BRITISH SEEDS.

Linseed (per qr.). . sowing — s. to 643. ; crushing 56s. to 60s,

Linseed Cakes (per ton) , £10 Os. to £10 10s.

Rapeseed (per qr.) , new 56s. to 6O3.

Ditto Cake (per ton) £6 15s. to £7 5s.

Cloverseed (per cwt.) (nominal) .... 00s. to OOs.

Mustard (per bush.) white lOs. to 12s.,.. brown old 10s. to 133.

Coriander (per cwt.) new — s. to — s., old IBs. to 20s.

Canary (per qr.) 42s. to 48s.

Carraway (per cwt.) ». new — s. to — s., old 44s. to 483.

Turnip, white (per bush.) — s. to — s Swede OOs. to OOs.

TrefoU (per cwt.) new I63. to 203.

Cow Grass (per cwt.) OOs. to OOs.

FOREIGN SEEDS, &c.
Lmseed (per qr.). . , . Baltic, 64s. to 68s. ; Odessa, 66s. to 70s.

Linseed Cake (per ton) £9 10s. to £10 lOs.

Rape Cake (per ton) £6 15s. to £7 Ss.

Hempseed, small, (per qr.). . — s., Ditto Dutch, 448.

Tares (per qr.) new, small — s., large — 3.

Rye Grass Q)er qr.) 28s. to 358.

Coriander (per cwt,) 10s. to 133.

Clover, red 463., 50s., 54s. to 563.

Ditto, white 683. to 8O3.

HOP MARKET.
BOROUGH, Monday, August 28.
The general account from the plantations of the state of
the crop are unfavourable. The mould continues to make
considerable ravages both in Mid Kent and Sussex, and the
high winds of the last few days have been prejudicial to the
hops. The market has exhibited much animation, and many
speculators' purchases have been made at prices fully equal to
last week's rates.— Duty £50,000 to £55,000.

Hart and Wilson.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

POTATO MARKETS.
BOROUGH AND SPITALFIELDS.

Monday, Aug. 28.
The supplies of English potatoes continue seasonably good,
and in excellent condition ; but those of foreign are very
limited. The demand is steady, as follows : — Kegents 80s. to
95s., and Shaws 653. to 753. per ton. Last week's imports
were 1 box from Lisbon, 60 from Amsterdam, 4 sacks from
Guernsey, and 22 tons from Jersey.

~ ENGLISH BUTTER MARKET.

August 28.
We notice a dull opening of our Butter trade to-day,
with every prospect of prices giving way.

Dorset, fine 102s. to 104s. per cwi.

Do., middling , 92s. to 96s. „

Devo7i Q3s. to 98s. „

Fresh, per dozen lbs., ...... 9s. to 13.s. per dozen.

PRICES OF BUTTER,

Butter, per ervt, s. s.
Friesland .. ..d<. 100 <ol02
Kiel Qi 98

CHEESE, HAMS, &c.

Cheese, per cmt, e. s.
Cheshire, new..,. 66 to 80

Chedder 68 80

Double &loucester 60 70
Single do. ..60 70

Sams, York, nerv,..^ 76 84
Westmoreland. ..72 82
Irish 68 76

Dorset 100 101

Carlow — —

Waterford .... — —

Cork, new 84 94

Limerick — —

Sligo — —

Bacon 74 76

FresJi, per doz.l2s.6d. 13s. Od.

Waterford — —

BELFAST, (Friday last.)— Butter : Shipping price, 883.
to 923. per cwt. ; firkins and crocks, 9i-d. to lOd. per lb.
Bacon, 54s. to 60s.; Hams, prime 683. to 743., second quality,
6O3. to 64s. per cwt.; mesa Pork, 87s. 6d. to 90s. per brl. ;
beef, 105s. to 112s. 6d.; Irish Lard, in bladders, 66s. to 70s.;
kegs or firkins, 628. to 643. per cwt.

Butter.

Bacon.

Dried Sams,

Mess Pork.

Aug.

per cmt.

per cwt.

per cmt.

per brl.

2r>.

s. d. s. d.

s. d. a. d.

s. d. s. d.

s. d, s. d.

1850..

64 0 70 0

37 0 42 0

65 0 70 0

60 0 62 6

18.51..

65 0 73 0

45 0 47 0

62 0 66 0

64 0 66 0

18.52..

72 0 78 0

50 0 56 0

66 0 70 0

85 0 90 6

18.53..

85 0 96 0

58 0 60 0

74 0 78 0

85 0 87 6

1854..

88 0 92 0

54 0 60 0

68 0 74 0

89 0 93 0

OILS.

We have had a very dull market for Linseed, at from 34s. to
34s. 6d. per cwt. on the spot. Rape Oil moves off slowly at
our quotations. Palm is quiet, but not cheaper. There is a
good inquiry for Seal and Cod Oils, at extreme rates. Sperm

is wanted. The prices realized are £104 to £106 for mid.
to fine.

£ s. d. £ s. d.

Olive, Florence hatf -chests 1 4 0 <o 1 6 0

Lucca ., 7 10 0 .. 8 0 0

Oallipoli {252 gallons)....,....- .....56 0 0 .. 57 0 0

Spanish ........51 0 0 .. 63 0 0

Linseed (cmt.) ..,., , 1 14 o ,, 1 14 fi

Rape,Pale,. 2 4 0.. 000

Brown 2 2 0.. 226

Cod(tun) 38 10 0 .. 39 10 0

Seal, Pale ..-, 40 0 0 .. 43 0 0

Ditto, Brown, Yellow, ^-c. 34 0 0 .. 36 0 0

Sperm ...„,, 104 0 0 .106 0 0

Bead Matter , 102 0 0 ..104 0 0

Southern 39 10 0 .. 42 0 0

Cocoa Nut {cmt.) , 2 9 0.. 2 11 0

Palm .,. ,.,.. 250.. 270

WSALEBONE.

Greenland, full size {jper ton) 190 0 0.. 0 0 0

South Sea.. i8o 0 0., 0 0 0

PITCS.

British {per civt.)...,.^. 0 8 0 ,, 0 0 0

Archangel ,,., 0 10 0 .. 0 0 0

Stockholm ,.,, 0 12 0 0 00

TAB,

American {British) ,.,, i 4 0.. 0 0 0

Archangel..,.. 1 16 0 .. 0 0 0

Stockholm 1 13 0 . 1 14 0

TURPENTINE.

Spirits (per cwt.) 2 3 0., 0 0 0

In Puncheons,. ,. 216.. 000

Bough... 0 10 3 !, 0 0 0

RESIN.

Yellow (per cmt.),,.... , 0 6 0.. 0 0 0

Transparent... , 0 5 0.. 000

WOOL MARKETS.
BRITISH WOOL MARKETS.

s. d. s. d.

Doion leys 1 0 J to 1 1^

Half-hreds 0 11^ — 1 0|

Ewes, cothing 0 11 — 1 0

Kent fleeces 1 0 — 1 IJ

Combing sldns 0 11 — 11

Flannel wool 0 11 — 1 1

Blanket wool 0 8 — 1 1

Leicester fleeces Oil — 1 0§

LEEDS ENGLISH WOOL MARKET, Aug. 25.— There
is now a better assortment of combing wools at market, and
manufacturers liaving supplied their more immediate wauts
resist a further advance. Prices are firm at last week's rates.

LIVERPOOL WOOL MARKET, Aug. 26.
Scotch Wool. — There is more business doing in Laid
Highland Wool, and as the new clip comes forward slowly,
prices are rather stiffer. White Highland has been very much
inquired for, and but little to market so far. Crossed and
Cheviot of a good show and character, have been in demand,
and command full quotations.

s. d. s. d.

Laid Sigkland Wool, periilbs 9 0 <o 10 0

White Sighland do..... ....12 0 13 0

Laid Crossed do., unwashed ..^. 11 6 12 6
Do. do..7vashed ...... 12 0 13 6

LaidCheviot do.. unwashed a... 13 0 14 6

Do. do. .washed ... = .0 14 6 16 8

White Cheviot do ,. . ..de ...„. 22 0 24 0

Foreign Wool. — The progress of harvest operations, re-
ported from all quarters as going on satisfactorily, gives a firm
tone to our market, and the buyers act with much more confi-
dence, and the business by private contract has been consi-
derable, at full prices.

FOREIGN WOOL MARKETS.

CITY, Monday. — The imports of wool into London last
week amounted to 151 bags from Hambro', 24 from Madeira,
14 from Ostend, and 1,179 from Adelaide. As two more
series of Colonial wool sales are expected to take place this
week, the business doing is comparatively small. Prices, how-
ever, continue to be well supported.

LEEDS FOREIGN WOOL MARKET, Aug. 25.— There
has been no change in the trade since our last.

MANURES.

London, Monday, August 28.
The imports of Peruvian Guano last week were 3,800 tonsf
and 2,792 tons exported.

The trade for Linseed Cakes is brisk, and our quotations are
maintained, and still higher prices are anticipated.
PRICES CURRENT OF GUANO,

Peruvian Guano per ton£ll II 0<o£12 0 0

„ D, Jirst class (damaged).. ,, 10 10 0 H 0 0

Bolivian Guano (none) „ 0 0 0 0 0 0

ARTIFICIAL MANURES, OIL CAKES, ^c.

Nitrate Soda ,, 17 0 0 17 10 0

Nitrate Potash or Saltpetre ,, 35 0 0 40 0 0

Sulphate Ammonia „ 17 0 0 18 0 0

Muriate ditto ., „ 22 0 0 23 0 0

Superphosphate of Lime „ 60 0 0 00

Soda Ash or Alkali „ 0 0 0 8 0 0

Gypsum „ 2 0 0 2 10 0

Coprolite „ 3 15 0 4 6 0

Sulphate of Copper, or Roman

Vitriolf or Wfieat steeping.,.. „ 44 0 0 0 0 0

Salt „ J 6 0 2 0 0

Bonesiinch , per qr. 0 17 0 0 18 0

„ Dust , 0 18 0 0 18 6

Oil Vitriol, concentrated per lb, 0 0 1 0 0 0

„ Bromn „ 0 0 0} 0 0 0

RapeCakcs pertonQ 5 0 6 10 0

Linseed Cakes —

Thin American in hrls. or bagt „ 10 17 6 11 10 0

Thick ditto round „ 10 5 0 10 10 0

Marseilles „ 10 0 0 10 5 0

English „ 10 15 0 U 0 0

Odams, PiCKFORD,aud Keen, 35, Leadenhall-street.

Printed by Rogerson and Tuxford, 246, Strand, London.

THE FAKMEE'S MAGAZII^E.

OCTOBER, 1854.

PLATE I.

"FAY," A SHORT-HORNED COW,

(Herd-book, vol. 10, page 365,)

THE PROPERTY OF MR. HENRY SMITH, OF THE GROVE, CROPWELL BUTLER, NEAR BINGHAM,

NOTTINGHAMSHIRE.

Roan, calved 27th March, 1848, bred by Mr. William Smith, of West Rasen, near Market Rasen,
Lincolnshire, the property of Mr. Henry Smith, of the Grove, Cropwell Butler, near Bingham, Notts. Got
by Baron of Ravensvvorth (7811), dam (Fairy) by Evander (6981) g. d. (Fhrt) (bred by Earl Spencer) by
William (2840), gr. g. d, (Lady Bird) by Firby (1040), gr. gr. g. d. (Zabetta) by Rodney (1392),
gr. gr. gr. g. d. by Tyrant (1537).

The First Prize of Twenty Sovereigns in Class 12 was awarded to Fay, and the Gold and Silver
Medals as the best animal exhibited in any of the Cow or Heifer Classes at the Smithfield Club Cattle
Show, December, 1853.

He also obtained the Prize of £5 in Class 7 for Short-horned Cows, at the Birmingham and Midland
Counties Exhibition of Fat Stock held at Birmingham in December, 1853.

PLATE 11.

MELBOURNE,

Sire of west Australian, sir tatton sykes, canezou, cymba, etc.

Melbourne, bred by the late Mr. H. Robinson, in 1834, was got by Humphrey Clinker, dam by
Cervantes, her dam by Golumpus (by Gohanna), great grandam by Paynator, out of Sister to Zodiac,
by St. George— Abigail, by Woodpecker.

Melbourne is a beautifully dappled brown horse, standing sixteen hands high. He has a lean, though
long and rather large head ; a long neck, finely arched, with a full " flowing" mane. He has good
shoulders, immense quarters, gaskins, and arms, with capital hocks, knees, and feet. He is very large
in the bone; in fact, his chief points are the great length and power he developes. If anything, he
droops a little in the back; but this is most probably from age, Melbourne having now reached twenty
summers. He is a very quiet-tempered horse, and on the best possible terms with those about him— his
"first favourite" and constant companion being the cat Mr. Hall has introduced into the picture.

Melbourne's stock, like himself, are nearly all large, fine-framed horses ; his favourite son. West
Austrahan, being one of the most perfect specimens of the thorough-bred horse ever brought to the
post. They are not all, however, so remarkable for handsome appearance. Sir Tatton Sykes, on the
contrary, was one of the very ugliest horses we ever saw in work, and many other Melbournes have the
large, plain, and somewhat curious head. If, though, not all ornamental, they have generally the re-
commendation of being useful — a far more important item in the balance sheet.

Melbourne is announced to hold his Court this year at the Turf Tavern, Doncaster— fifty mares at
forty guineas each. The subscription, we believe, is full; so that Mr. Robinson enjoys an income of
something hke two-thousand a year, because, as the lads say, "he belongs to Melbourne."

OLD SERIES.] U [VOL. XLI.-N0. 4.

278

THE FARMER^S MAGAZINE.

THE AGRICULTURE OF A PORTION OF NORMANDY,

BY CUTH3ERT AV. JOHNSON, ESQ., F.R.S.

The agriculture of some portions of Normandy,
as far as I have seen during a recent visit, does not
appear to differ materially from that of several of
our English counties. The great value of wood for
fuel leads to the careful preservation of their exten-
sive vt^oods. These in many places, as between
Dieppe and Havre, and Havre and Rouen, very
largely and beautifully clothe the hill tops. Wide
pastures, many of which are planted with fruit trees,
occupy to a great extent the valleys ; and this causes
much of the scenery of this province to bear a close
resemblance to that of Devonshire. Cider, too, is
made to a considerable extent, and is the common
drink of the lower orders.

The fields are often of a tolerable size, and the
farms appear to be in a state of fair cultivation.
When I saw them, immediately after the harvest
of this year, the stubbles seemed to be pretty
tolerably free from weeds. There are, hoivever, no
turnips growing in the district through which I have
passed. They appear to rely chiefly on their pas-
tures—on their rape, and on their mangel wurzel
for the winter food of their cattle. The sugar beet
is also largely cultivated for the sugar manufac-
tories, which are here extensively carried on ; the
chief supply of French sugar, indeed, is obtained
from this source. The quahty of the refined sugar
made from beet is excellent in colour and strength.
The sugar manufactories which I have seen are
handsome erections, with their machinery and other
apparatus kept in the nicest order. The same
remark applies to the courts and other little enclo-
sures which surround them, these being remiarkably
well kept, and covered v/ith beds of flov/ers and
evergreens. A similar observation applies even to
the extensive cotton manufactories which abound
around Rouen— everything looks neat and clean ;
flowers in profusion were in September surrounding
these buildings— flowers which, however pubhcly
displayed in France, no one appears to injure.

The public care bestowed in the collection of
manure in these districts is very considerable ; the
very street sweepings which are daily removed fur-
nish a large supply j and the same remark applies
to the sewage of their houses. This is very
commonly received into and carried away in tubs
for manure. This, however, rather tends to dis-
courage the use of water-closets; or if what is here
called a water-closet is used, it is very often a water-
closet with either the water omitted, or it is fur-
nished with a trickling stream of little service. Then

again, the corners, and other places in a town,
which in England are furnished with a urinal com-
municating with a sewer, are in Rouen, and in one
or two other Norman towns which I have seen,
supplied with small neat tubs of a peculiar con-
struction, totally free from smell ; and these are
daily removed and replaced.

The diet of the agricultural labourer is chiefly
bread and vegetables ; where an English farm
labourer consumes bread and cheese or bacon, a
farm labourer of Normandy makes his meal of
bread and an onion, or a pear, or some other
common fruit. The women (who here do the most
of the work, for they are now even rapidly intro-
ducing vv'omen as the money-takers and signal-
mistresses at the railway stations) live on the same
fare. Tea is hardly known ; and yet there is wit-
nessed in these a general healthfulness of appear-
ance ; and I could but observe an evident self-
respect which I wish right heartily I could see
more widely diffused amongst the English
labourers. Here are no rags to be seen — no
drunkenness ; the shops where wine is sold seem
to be the least frequented of any.

The cows of Normandy appear to have nothing
particular in their breed ; they are of a moderate
size, and are commonly of a description somewhat
resembling a cross between the Hereford and an
inferior Scotch. Their horses are not good — their
heads are large, their hind-quarters bad. Stallions
abound of all sizes. Their ploughing seems good :
this is done chiefly with wheel ploughs, many of
these closely resembling the comnaon Suffolk
plough. Their harrows are frequently furnished
with wooden teeth. The mode in which they har-
ness their horses is bad ; they make their rope
traces much too long, and hence the horse is con-
siderably too far from his work. All these prac-
tices, however, have now many and an increasing
number of good exceptions ; and as it v/as some
time since truly remarked, although in most of the
important branches of agriculture, such as the
rotation of crops, the breeds of cattle, and imple-
ments of husbandry, England is no doubt far in
advance of her continental neighbour ; yet in the
discovery of chemical appliances, in the creation
and management of artificial manures, their inge-
nuity and skill may afford us the most valuable
assistance. It cannot fail, indeed, looking at the
immense surface of France, the variety of its cli-
mate, soil, and productions, when the active and

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

279

acute mind of its people is turned towards these
subjects, that important and most beneficial results
shoaldfollow. Itwillbefitall those interested in these
pursuits in England, and especially members of
the English Agricultural Society, to institute and
maintain a correspondence with their farming
brethren of France, which, the more intimate it
should become, would redound with greater advan-
tages to both countries.

The noble spirit of agricultural improvement has
now, indeed, for some considerable period displayed
itself in France, and this was some time since
graphically sketched by Mr. J, Evelyn Denison
{Jour. Royal Ag, Soc, vol i, p. 263) ; he also
noted very truly, "that till recently the two countries
have diffeied most widely in all that relates to
agriculture — that, seeking the same end of improved
cultivation, they set out almost from opposite points,
and employ very different means — would increase
rather than diminish the interest of an examination.
In England the land is in great measure owned by
large proprietors, and cultivated by tenants pos-
sessed of capital and skill. In France the land is
almost infinitely subdivided among small proprie-
tors. In England the individual enterprise of land-
lands and tenants detecfts deficiencies, and supplies
the remedy. In France, from the want of capital-
ists, the government is obliged to take the part of
instigator and chief agent in the career of improve-
ment.

" In comparison with the English system of en-
closures, France may be called one va^t open field.
You may travel from Calais to Paris, from Paris to
the German frontier, to the Alps, to the Pyrenees,
and scarcely see a hedge or a partition-fence of any
sort. This vast open field (unlike the open districts
of England, where the operations of farming are
generally conducted on the largest scale) is cut up
into the smallest conceivable plots of every variety
of produce. As far as the eye can reach, over vast
plains bounded by sloping hills, you see the surface
varied by every description of crop ; none perhaps
above an acre or two in size, the larger portion not
more than the fourth or the eighth of an acre.
Here a vineyard 100 yards by 20, there a strip of
wheat, lucerne, barley, oats, potatoes, clover, vetches.
Few roads intersect this extensive garden, which,
from the nature of the cultivation, must be traversed
every day in all directions by the proprietors and
cultivators of the various lots. The owner of a
plot of lucerne, half a mile from the high road,
must pass one neighbour's vineyard, another's
wheat, and fifty such varieties, to reach his own
plot, where he must cut his lucerne, make it into
hay, and carry it home, either on his own back, or
piled on an ass or horse, along the narrow paths
which intersect the plots. The residences of these

proprietors are almost invariably congregated into
villages or towns, and lie therefore, for the most
Part, quite wide of their respective allotments.

" Upon Enghsh principles of farming and of rural
economy, it is difficult to imagine how such a sys-
tem of cultivation can be carried on successfully
and profitably for a series of years. How is manure
to be made? How are cattle, the great agents in
reproduction, to be kept, and restoration to be made
to the land ? It is clear that over this vast open
field, thus laid out, no cattle can depasture ; and,
though a certain amount of stock may be kept in
stables, the amount must be limited from the want
of winter food, as few or no turnips are seen, and
the transport of manure to the distant plots, from
the want of roads and tracks, must be operose and
expensive.

•'Such is the condition of alarge portion of the
surface of France. There are extensive tracts
of forest, of pasture, of vineyard, and in some parts
of corn lands, which have not been subjected to
this process of division ; but the desire to possess
an interest in the land, however small, is a ruhng
passion among the population of France, and the
principle of division is proceeding in its unchecked
career. What results will follow from this hitherto
unproved experiment, occupies, as may be well
supposed, no small share of public attention in
France. The comparative advantages of large and
small properties have been discussed under all their
aspects, and speculated upon as to all their conse-
quences, agricultural, social, and political. There
is no doubt that in several articles of produce, and
especially in that of wine, the increase has been
considerable under the new order of things. But,
again, no culture makes so small a return in manure
as wine, and it does not appear that, with increased
quantity, there has been an improvement in quality,
and in no product is quality so important as in that
of wine. Mons, Chaptal, in his able work on the
' Application of Chemistry to Agriculture,' enters
at length on the subject of large and small proper-
ties ; and in deciding in favour of thg subdivision
of lands, after enumerating many of its favourable
features, thus escapes from the diflSculties of the
question : — •

" ' After all,' he says, ' we do not see the principle
of subdivision prevail in those districts prculiarly
suited to the larger culture ; the vast domains of
La Bauce, of La Brie, of Soissormais, of Haut
Languedoc, remain without- division, and are still
the granaries of France. The rich pastures of
Normand)^, of Poitou, of Anjou, feed the same
number of cattle, our large forests continue in their
integrity, the population and the means of sub-
sistence are both considerably increased, our mar-
kets are abundantly supplied. Ease is on every

u 2

280

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

side extended over our fields, industry makes rapid
progress, the public imposts are readily and regu-
larly paid. Let us take care how we disturb, by
laws affecting property, this general harmony, and
this public well-being, which assure the happiness
and prosperity of our country.'

" In this state of divided means throughout the
country, the government steps in, and, partly by
establishments maintained entirely at its own cost,
partly by aiding local institutions with its patronage
and funds, leads the way in the path of inprove-
ment,

" The establishments maintained entirely by the
government are —

1. Sheep Farms 3. Veterinary Schools

2. Model Farms 4, Haras or Studs.

"The institutions aided by government funds and
patronage are—

1. Public Lectures 3. Local Associations

2. Agricultural Societies 4. Departmental

Model Farms."
Upon the whole, then, I feel assured that the young
English farmer may wend his way to the beautiful
fields of Normandy with pleasure and advantage :
he will find upon the points to which I have alluded
much food for profitable reflection ; he will behold
a country strongly resembling our own noble
county of Devon ; and if he misses the larger farms
of England, and the evidence of similar results of
capital, he will, on the other hand, observe a great
amount of general content, and an almost total
absence of excitement. Such a tour will in its
results lead him, I think, on the one hand to cling
still warmly and thankfully to his own country;
but on the other, he may derive many profitable
hints, and it will certainly add to his respect for
our gallant and enlightened neighbours.

FARMING OF OXFO RD S HIRE.— AGRICULTURAL GEOLOGY.

In Mr. Read's prize report on the farming of
Oxfordshire, in the last number of the Journal of
the Royal Agricultural Society, we have been
gratified to find a recognition of principles in agri-
cultural geology which have long been asserted in
the Mark Lane Express. Our readers can scarcely
need to be reminded how repeatedly we have urged
the importance, in an agricultural point of view, of
those superficial deposits which are treated, in our
present geological maps, as if they had no exist-
ence, and how we have contended that, while the
rock formations define the general agricultural
characters of a district, the superficial deposits pro-
duce upon each formation soils of every quality,
from the highest to the lowest value. These will
be found to be the views of Mr, Read with respect
to the soils of Oxfordshire, one of those portions
of England in which the regular strata are sup-
posed to have the greatest influence on the soil.

For reasons which we need not particularize, the
Government Geological Survey has retarded rather
than promoted the advancement of agricultural
geology ; and the Agi'icultural Society of England
cannot be said to have forwarded geological inves-
tigations to the extent which might have been ex-
pected from so enlightened a body, marching
under the banner of " Practice with Science."
Nevertheless, they recognize the importance of
geological knowledge to the farmer so far as this —
that, according to the heads which the Society pre-
scribe, the candidates for the prize essays on the
farming of a county are expected to commence with
a description of the geological divisions, and then

proceed to the agricultural divisions. The object
aimed at has doubtless beeA to obtain from prac-
tical farmers a map of the soils of the county, or
such a description as should be equivalent to a
map, for comparison with existing geological maps,
in order to ascertain how far the geological and the
agricultural areas coincide. Such comparison is,
undoubtedly, the true inductive process by which
to determine the relations between the soil and the
rock on which it rests. The result, however, has
been, that the essayists in general do little more
than reproduce, in an abridged form, such infor-
mation respecting the distribution of soils as is to
be- found in the reports to the Board of Agriculture,
and in " Morton on Soils." This is accompanied
by a wood-cut map of the substrata of the county,
copied from some of our existing geological maps —
and not unfrequently copied with their existing errors.
The agricultural divisions are either dismissed as
coinciding with the geological divisions — subject,
however, it is added, to considerable variations of
soil within each geological area ; or the variations
are said to be so intricate as to defy description
within reasonable limits. The essayists, however,
are not to be blamed for the course which they
pursue. The geological task assigned them has
been, to make bricks without straw. In addition
to that knowledge of farming which they may be
expected to possess, they are required to furnish
that kind of geological knowledge which no man
yet possesses ; because, to obtain it, much investi-
gation is required, in a field as yet scarcely culti-
vated. We have maps of the substrata, from

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

281

which the superficial deposits, which in most cases
constitute the soil and subsoil, are supposed to be
removed J but maps of the soils there are none. The
construction of the geological maps of the substrata
has been a work of much time, labour, and ex-
pense. The construction of a map of the varia-
tions of soil would be equally tedious, laborious,
and expensive. The chance of obtaining the fifty
pounds which the Society offers as a prize for the
best essay on the farming of a county, or even the
prize itself, would not pay for the shoe-leather which
must be expended in making such a map. The
consequence, therefore, is as we have stated — that
we have only in these essays a repetition of the exist-
ing imperfect information respecting the agricultural
geology of the districts to which they relate, and
that no progress is made in original research
towards the required knowledge of the mineral
variations of the substrata in greater detail than is
shown in geological maps, and of the surface-
geology which those maps ignore.

Mr. Read has so far followed the established
formula, that he has described the areas occupied
by the outcrops of the strata, and has given the
usual geological map, illustrated, as is not always
the case, by sections ; but he has, at the same time,
ventured to think for himself. He declares that,
while tlie numerous alternations of clay, stratified
rock, and* sand give rise to the numberless soils
which mark the county, the theory that " the sur-
face of the earth partakes of the nature and colour
of the subsoil on which it rests" cannot be rigidly
applied to this county, as a great part of its agricul-
tural condition is due to the various deposits of
gravel which cover the strata, and form a soil the
very opposite, in many cases, to the stratum on
which they rest. He thus sums up the geological
part of his subject :

" This is a brief description of the geology of Oxfordshire
and, witli the assistance of the maps and sections, may be
tolerably plain to those conversant with the county. But
farmers want maps which show the superficial accumulations
and alluvial deposits. This is the geology — the geology of
the surface — that is most useful to agriculture. It can be of
little benefit for an occupier of the Thames meadows to look
at a geological map, and see his land described as Oxford
clay ; or for the proprietor of the barren heights of Shotover
to know that his land rests on the Portland oolite. In the
one case, ten feet of gravel, in the other, twenty feet of ferru-
ginous sand, must exert such direct influence on the nature of
the soil, that it matters little what deposit is buried below.
Therefore, admitting that the rock formations define by their
mineral character the general agricultural features of a district,
the superficial deposits produce those numerous varieties of
soil found in that district. It is to be hoped that geologists
will pay the same attention to the surface of the soil as they
have devoted to the substrata. Then the farmer will be as
much benefited by their labours as the miner, and, receiving a
fair share of assistance, will place a higher value on their
important discoveries."

Itis needless to state that in these opinions and this
hope we heartily concur. But the question remains,
Who is to make these maps of the geology of the sur-
face, and of agriculture, which are to be so useful to
the farmer and the landowner ? They may be of two
kinds — private maps of estates, on the scale of the
tithe-maps ; and pubhc maps of counties, on the
scale of the Ordnance Survey, or, which would be
preferable, on the Ordnance Survey enlarged to
the scale of two inches to the mile. The private
maps would cost, all expenses of digging and
boring and copies of maps included, one shilling
and sixpence the acre, or £48 the square mile.
They would go into the utmost possible minutiae
of detail, both as regards the mineral variations of
the substrata, and the depth and composition of
the soil and subsoil, dependent on the superficial
deposits. The amount of information which would
be obtained by such a systematic examination of
the superficial and substratal resources of an estate
would be cheaply purchased at a cost of one shiUing
and sixpence the acre ; but, as far as our' in formation
extends, it would appear that, while there are many
landowners who would gladly avail themselves of
it, if they could obtain it gratuitously, there are
few willing to purchase it even at that trifling ex-
pense. Public or county maps, on the two-inch
scale, could of course go much less into detail; but
they could not be made for less than £2 10s. the
square mile, exclusive of the cost of enlarging the
Ordnance Survey, and of engraving and publishing
the geo-agricultural details. At neither of these
rates, for the public or the private maps, would a
person, possessing the requisite geological and other
knowledge for their construction, reahze a larger
remuneration for his time than that of an ordinary
land-surveyor. Still, if there were the prospect of
sufficient sale for the maps, at the price of the
Government geological maps, to ensure that
amount of remuneration, there are qualified persons
who would undertake the work. We know not
how much the geological maps of the Government
cost per square mile ; but we should be very much
surprised if it is not more than £2 10s. They are
on the scale of one inch to the mile. They give
only the outcrops of the strata, as they are grouped
together under a classification founded on organic
remains ; and they repudiate the surface-variations
on which the variations of soil depend. Could not
county maps, on the scale of two inches to the
mile, which should comprise the geology of the
surface, as well as that of the substrata, be brought
out by subscription among the landowners of the
counties and our leading agricultural and scien-
tific associations ? Such maps would be so much
more valuable than those of the Government Geo-
logical Survey, as to supersede the necessity for

282

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

its being extended over the eastern half of England
—that is, into any counties not already com-
menced ; and as the Government would thus be
relieved from the expense of that survey, they
might reasonably be expected to take upon them-
selves the charge of enlarging the scale of the

Ordnance maps, and the cost of publication. The
subject is well worthy the attention of those land-
surveyors who possess sufficient geological know-
ledge for the undertaking ; and the time is favour-
able for bringing it under the notice of the
Government.

AGRICULTURAL POSSIBILITIES.

" What I want are facts," writes Mr. Dickins,
as the opening sentence of his last novel. May we
be allowed to echo him. What we want are facts.
What the practical agriculturists of this kingdom
want are facts to go upon. It has been our duty
to continually impress the necessity of this caution
upon them. However unpleasant at times it may
have been, we have never hesitated to warn them
equally against the ravings of the mere enthusiast
and the specious declaimings of the more assum-
ing pretender. Amiable theorists, armed with just
sufficient argument to deceive themselves, are not
exactly the models for the working farmer to imi-
tate. Self-constituted authorities, whose indo-
mitable assurance is often their chief strength,
must give us something more, perhaps, than the
ipse dixit of " I say so and so," before we bring
ourselves quite to understand that all they say is
right, and all that we do is wrong.

What we want are facts. Not the mere genera-
lities of laying out three or four times as much
money as we have, to get thirty or forty times as
much by it. Not the sjmit and energy to put into
practice every wild scheme every wild man may
proclaim as the first great principle of agri-
cultural progression. Not the delightful anti-
cipation of what 7nay be done if we Vvill only
try this, or venture our all in that. Agriculture is
unfortunately, in the hands of many of our "modern
instances," but a mere plaything, instead of the all-
engrossing real business of life. Surely, then, it
becomes us the yet more carefully to weigh over
all that is so ffippantly or hastily offered to our
notice. We may, as we are so complacently as-
sured, be but "slowcoaches" and '' old watchmen"
—have only small means and less abilities — have
been born in England instead of Scotland, and so
forth. Let it be so. We confess our weakness.
We want the inspiration or impudence which has
made practical farmers of men who have compara-
tively had but little practice at all.

We want something more than this ; and what
we do want are facts. They have come at last.
The greatest of the day is undoubtedly the Tiptree
Hall Farm ; one which would have ruined any bond
Me farmer to make it what it is. We take this to

be a fact. Tiptree, however, is something more
than this. It is the strongest censure to be found
on the English farmer as he is. Everything is
worked out to this end. Every one speaks of it with
but this moral to his address. See! what is done at
Tiptree, and v.'hat is done somewhere else too! only
it must not be in England. With liquid manure for
the text word, we had some such orations as these at.
the last gathering held there. And we had something
more. We had some facts. "Mr. Caird," we
quote our own remarks on the occasion — " Mr.
Caird, already somewhat notorious for v/hat he has
done in this way, was more energetic than ever on
the wonders of the North. One of the facts duly
proclaimed by him, was the growth per annum of
twenty-five tons of dried hay on a Scotch acre of
land. A local report says this was received with
cries of 'Oh! oh! and laughter;' while one of
our contemporaries, The Gardeners' Chronicle,
adds, 'it was not believed in consequence of being
too abruptly announced.' "

In simple fact, and what we want are facts, it
was not believed, and it never has been believed.
The readers of the Mark Lane Express cannot fail
to have remembered the communications we have
received from both Scotch and Enghsh agricul-
turists on the subject. By both has this story been
alike ignored. Those, too, who move amongst
farmers, will have found that it has been never
mentioned but to be ridiculed. So strong, indeedj,
has this feeling becom.e, that Mr. Caird has at last
ventured upon "an explanation," for which we re-
fer to another column. Following this, we give a
letter in comment upon it from " An Agricul-
turist," who v/as present at Tiptree when this start-
ling announcement was made. We recommend
both these communications to the perusal of our
readers. We must cqnfess that we hold Mr. Caird's
" explanation" to be anything but satisfactory, the
more especially so when " taxed" by the letter of
our correspondent. Mr. Caird is specious, diffuse,
and great, as usual, on the advantages of guano
and liquid manure. But does lie prove his case ?
He said at Tiptree that twenty-fivp toijs of dried ,
hay had been grown on a Scotch acre of land, or
as he now writes it, "twenty tons of hay per acre."

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

283

When people laughed, and cried Oh! Oh! at such
a story, we perfectly well remember his reiterating-
" the fact" with something of the air of a man who
pitied the ignorance of those he was addressing ;
or as he now writes, any want of faith in so start-
ling a statement could only be attributed to limited
knowledge. A very favourite argument, by the
way, is this with gentlemen who know too much.
What we want, however, are facts. We ourselves
have carefully abstained from mentioning the name
of Mr. Telfer, though from the first apprised that
it was to him we were really to look for a solution of
this wonder. Will he now give us it? Mr. Cairdsays
Mr. Telfer has grown per annum five-and-twenty tons
of dried hay to the acre. "An agriculturist," and v/e
think we may include every agriculturist in the
kingdom, says he never did anything of the kind.
Our own Correspondent, moreover, adds, that
Mr. Telfer has never laid claim to the achievement
of this extraordinary feat. Here we are on the
horns of a dilemma. Mr. Caird asserts that an
hitherto impossible crop has been grown, and he
asserts this upon the authority of Mr. Telfer.
From not merely a personal introduction to the
latter gentleman, but from v/hat we have heard
others say of him, v/e are inclined to place every
reliance upon his word ; while we can only assure
him, that the agricultural world looks to him with
some good cause to clear himself from any parti-
cipation in this extraordinary affair.

"In truth," writes Mr. Caird, " one of the most
serious obstacles to agricultural improvement is to
be found in the limited standard which some agri-
cultural teachers have set up as the fixed boundary
of agricultural progress. There is no presumption
so great as that which glibly cries ' Impossible!'"
In truth, as Mr. Caird says, one of the most serious
obstacles, as we take it, to agricultural improve-
ment, is to be found in the wild, absurd, and bom-
bastic effusions of some of our agricultural teach-
ers, who care not what they say, or what injury
they do, so as it may suit their object. In fur-
therance of some such policy as this, we have
another attempt to bring the English and Scotch
farmers into bitter opposition one with the other.
We believe, however, with more than one of our
correspondents, that the farmers themselves of
these two countries have little to do with the mat-
ter ; and that the Scotch no more identify them-
selves with Mr. Caird and his miracles than we do
here in England. And yet it is with such sayings
and doings as these — with such puffery and
quackery, that we are to break through the boun-
daries of truth and fact, and aid the progress of
British Agriculture !

The time and place were well chosen. No won-
der, as Mr, Beale Brown said, he would not have

answered for the man's life anywhere else. And
yet, reflect on the ignorance and impudence of
those who could question such a tale from such a
man, and on such an occasion ! " There is no pre-
sumption so great" (we repeat from Mr. Caird),
" as that v/hich glibly cries Impossible !" Thus
admonished, v/e cry out no more, but anxiously
await the announcement of the next great fact,
For what we want, Mr. Cairdj are facts,

TO THE EDITOR OF THE TIMES.

Sir,— Some remarks which I made at the last agri"
cultural gathering at Tiptree have caused a discussion,
ia which I feel that I have been misunderstood, and
therefore beg the favour of a little space for explanation.

The most interesting feature of Mr. Mechi's farai this
year was his liquid manure system, and on this he
chiefly enlarged in the way of instruction. It is not
used directly to the corn crops, but the excellence of
the mangold fields shows how beaeficial it is to them.
The Italian rye-grass is the only unsuccessful crop, and
Mr. Mechi, when his own illustration failed him, very
fairly adduced the experience of others. He told us of
the marvellous results obtained by Mr. Kennedy, in
Ayrshire, whose Italian rye-grass affords keep at the
rate of 70 house-fed sheep an acre. And Mr. Telfer, of
Ayr, who was on the ground, corroborated this state-
ment from his own experience, he having got from three
cuttings of this prolific grass in one season as much
green food as would have made 20 tons of hay per acre '.
It was, perhaps, no wonder that many were startled by
such statements, seeing that this is ten times the num-
ber of sheep and ten times the weight of hay which are
usually got. Men cried out, " Impossible !" They
would not believe it. Perhaps it is impossible in the
eastern counties, and, at any rate, it may be useful to
point out the advantage which the moister climate of
the west gives it in the growth of grass. The difference
between the annual rainfall of the east and west of
Great Britain is reckoned at 10 inches. An inch of rain
is equivalent to 100 tons of water to an acre ; so that,
on an average, nature gives to the western farmer 1,000
tons more water per acre than to his eastern competitor.
In the growth of grass we know that it is all needed, for
in Ayrshire, where these enormous crops of grass are
grown, both Mr. Kennedy and Mr. Telfer feel the ne-
cessity of permitting no waste of liquid. During sum-
mer they apply the liquid manure early in the morning
and late at night ; not showering it high into the air,
but directing the stream straight to the roots of the grass,
so that none may be dissipated in mist, and as little as
possible lost by evaporation. Now, the mechanical la-
bour, even when aided by machinery, of applying 1,000
tons of water to an acre of land must ever present a
serious obstacle to the farmer of the eastern districts;
and even when he has done this, he is only on the level
whence the western farmer starts. I am anxious to
press this point on public attention at present, that it
may be duly considered in any scheme for applying town
sewage to agricultural purposes. In so far as I know.

284

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

there is not a single instance yet published of the profit-
able use in this country of town sewage applied by pipes.
The case of Edinburgh is on a totally different prin-
ciple. There the sewage water is run over the land by
irrigation in hundreds of tons to the acre, instead of by
tens of tons, to which it must necessarily be restricted
in applying it through pipes by machinery. And, see-
ing that the solid manuring matter of town sewage is
diluted in many hundred times its weight of water (as
has been shown by Professor Way), we need not wonder
that the report of the late Board of Health, while fully
illustrating the beneficial application to crops of rich
farm-yard sewage through pipes, is comparatively silent
with regard to town sewage similarly applied. Great
caution is therefore necessary in founding conclusions of
general application from the success of farm-yard sewage
in the moist climate of the west.

The possibility of growing such crops of grass under
any circumstances was doubted by many. But where-
fore impossible ? A good crop of meadow hay weighs
about two tons. A stalk of Italian rye- grass is twice
the length of meadow grass. If the stalks stand equally
thick on the ground, the Italian rye-grass will thus
weigh twice as much as the meadow grass. But if there
are two stalks of Italian rye-grass for one of meadow
grass, the crop of the former will be four times the
weight of the latter. To those who have seen Mr.
Kennedy's and Mr. Telfer's crops, it is unnecessary to
say that both these conditions are fulfilled ; and it needs
but the repeated application of farm sewage to this
rapidly growing grass, in a favourable climate, to secure
three such cuttings in a season as Mr. Telfer affirmed
he had got. To the diligent, as Mr. Mechi said truly,
time is money, and the axiom could not be better illus-
trated than by growing three crops in a single season in
place of one. A startling statement of any kind is
always doubted, and disbelief in matters of this kind is
usually in proportion to limited knowledge. Many
farmers, because they have never seen it themselves,
would say that it is "impossible" on any land in this
country to grow superb crops year after year without
manure — to have beans, wheat, mangold, potatoes,
cabbages, oats, and swedes following each other in any
succession (provided the land is kept clean), each crop
most luxuriant, all carried off the ground, and not a
particle of manure applied. And yet this may be seen
in half an hour's ride from town by the North Kent
Railway, on the drained portion of Plumstead-marsh,
occupied by Mr. Russell. When guano was first intro-
duced, many deemed it impossible that a brown powder,
brought thousands of miles across the ocean, would be
a hundred times more valuable for the growth of crops
than an equal weight of good farm-yard manure. In
truth, one of the most serious obstacles to agricultural
improvement is to be found in the limited standard
which some agricultural teachers have set up as the
fixed boundary of agricultural progress. There is no
presumption so great as that which glibly cries " Im-
possible" in an age which has produced the electric
telegraph.

I take the opportunity while writing to you of sending

the result of some experiments made by me this season
at Baldoon, on the application of manure to wheat, and
in continuation of similar ones made last year. In the
centre of a 50 acre field, one acre was left without
manure, all the rest of the field receiving 2 cwt. of
Peruvian guano per acre in autumn, at the time the seed
was sown. The produce of the acre undressed has been
tested against that of the adjoining acre, which received
Peruvian guano, and this is the result : —

One acre, with guano, 32 bushels, 631b. weight £ s. d.

per bushel, at 63. 6d. per 601b 10 18 4

One acre, without manure, 25| bushels, 60!b.

weight per bushel, at 6s. 6d. per 601b 8 5 9

Cost of 2 cwt. of guano in 1833

£2 12 7
10 0

Profit per acre, besides one-fourth more straw . . £1 12 7
The inferiority in the quality of the unmanured
wheat, as shown by the weight per bushel, is worthy of
notice, as well as the fact that the unmanured wheat was
a week later in ripening than the other.

The second experiment was made to test the value of
nitrate of soda and common salt as a top dressing to
wheat in spring, and the result in this case has been ex-
tremely profitable. The wheat was sown in December,
after a heavy crop of swedes, all drawn off; and the
whole field was top-dressed in April with 1 cwt. of
nitrate of soda and 1 cwt. of salt per acre, given in
two applications, at a fortnight's interval, one acre
near the centre of the field having been left; undressed.
This and the adjoining acre have been thrashed, and
yielded as follows : —

One acre, with nitrate and salt, 42 bushels,

worth 63. 6d £13 13 0

One acre, without manure, 30 bushels, worth
6s. 6d. .. .. .. 9 15 0

£3 18 0
Cost of manure, 1 cwt. nitrate, I89. ; 1 cwt.
salt, 2s 10 0

Profitperacre £2 18 0

These two experiments supply little that is new, as
they only corroborate hundreds of others made in various
parts of the country in previous years. But they are
useful in impressing upon the British grower the power
he might possess of increasing the produce of his wheat
crops. It is not merely a question of profit to the
farmer. Here are two substances, the application of
which in certain known quantities to the soil give an in-
crease which may be stated, on the average, at one
quarter of wheat per acre, or an addition of nearly one-
fourth to its natural produce. An addition of one quar-
ter an acre all over the country would be equivalent to
the food of one-fourth of our population. It would
make all the difference between plenty and scarcity,
between the cheap loaf and the dear loaf, between steady
prosperity and a drain of gold, with all its commercial dis-
turbance. And yet the arrangements for the supply of
articles known to possess such qualities, instead of being
a prime object of care to the British Government, are
intrusted to the charge of some uninfluential consul at
the antipodes ! James Caird.

9, Little Ryder-street, St, James's.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

285

TO THE EBITOR OP THE MARK LANE EXPRESS.
Sir, — Mr. Caird's letter in yesterday's Times appears
to me to throw some doubt on the veracity of your
recent correspondents relative to Mr. Telf'er's monster
crop of hay, and at the same time to evade the question
which forms the plea for his communication. As one of
those who had the pleasure of enjoying Mr. Mechi's
hospitality at his late gathering at Tiptree Hall, I venture
to allege, unless my ears deceived me, that Mr. Caird
said that 25 tons of hay could be made off a Scotch, or
21 tons off an English, acre; and when exclamations of
"Impossible!'' were heard throughout the tent where
we were assembled, he turned round upon his astonished
listeners, and emphatically added — " It's no use douhting
the statement, gentlemen, the thiyig's been done," and,
pointing to Mr, Telfer, said, " here's a living witness."
Now, in addition to ' ' the thing" being a physical impossi-
hility, it has not been done. Mr. Telfer never makes
hay ; nor does he allege ever having cut more than 70
tons of Italian rye-grass per statute acre, which, 2/ con-
verted into hay, he thinks would produce about 11 tons.
Well might Mr. Beale Brown declare, as he did, that
" he wou'd not ansiver for any man's life who should
make such a statement as Mr. Caird had done, at his
ensuing sheep shoiu .'" This only showed how far this
northern monstrosity had gone beyond the power of
argument, and reduced common sense and practical ex-
perience to an exclamation of despair ! And had Mr.
Caird's assertion been a fact, how much more strange
would fact appear than fiction ! The Saxon tillers of the
soil can well afford, in farming matters, to give the
Scots their due, and their complacency is not much dis-
turbed by being told their own faults, especially when
shown a rational way to mend them ; but when suddenly
asked to swallow Mr. Caird's awful bolus, and jump at
once from two to twenty tons of hay per acre, why even
the double-quick rate of " agricultural progression"
which they have of late years been asked to make over
Mr. Mechi's prostrate body becomes a mere snail's
pace, and they can't do it.

Nothing, however, appears too savoury for Mr.
Caird's sanguine temperament. Perhaps it would be
unreasonable to ask him to come down from the clouds
and subdue his mind to the rationale of farming ; for
ever since he brought forward Mr. McCullagh, of
Aughness, as a model potato grower and profit-making
farmer, and recommended every occupier to get a bag
and an unlimited supply of sea-weed, and do as he did,
he has been so caressed by savans, and soars so high
above the drudgery of pointing out every-day errors in
the practice of farming, such as can be comprehended
by ordinary minds, that he is not likely to descend to
prescribe remedies that could be accomplished by ordi-
nary means. Mr. Kennedy, of Myremill, was recom-
mended to our notice ; but he is only as yet trying an
experiment, and that on his own freehold, and he is a
rich banker to boot. Mr. Mechi is in the same happy
position as to his land ; and while we can heartily thank
him for continuing, as he began, a chivalrous pioneer
into the dim futurity of agricultural science, we shall
not be so unreasonable as again to ask him for a sight

of his " balance-sheet,"

Scotch farmers, with some reason, are proud of their
national husbandry, especially when they consider at
how recent a period systematic farming began in Scot-
land, and how much they have done for their country
within the last seventy or eighty years ; but, from an exten-
sive acquaintance with them, I can affirm that, as a body,
they assume no superiority over their brethren in the
south, well-knowing the different circumstances in which
they are placed, and the different soils they have to cope
with ; and when they see isolated and eccentric cases of
individual hobbies brought forward by Mr. Caird and
others as indices of their national agriculture, they are
unwillingly made to feel that even in their own eyes
they are made to look simply ridiculous,

Sept. 20th, 1854, An Agriculturist.

HORNED CATTLE,

CANCEROUS, OK, RATHER, SCIRRHUS TUMEFIED
GLANDS.

Sir, — It is of no unfrequent occurrence to see cattle of all
ages affected with these scirrhus enlargements; particularly
the parotid glands, which are situate on the upper part of the
neck and throat, and near the angle of the lower jaw. lu this
locality I have had, during the last few years, many cases of
such description. Their origin I trace to common cold, ac-
companied with soreness of the throat and inflammation of
these glands and their surrounding tissues, which, for the want
of proper attention, leaves them in a chronic or slow state of in-
flammation, in the first stages ; that is, when soreness of the
throat and tenderness of the glands are observed, they are
curable by the stimulating embrocations and blisters, by ap-
plying them to the surface of the throat ; in the second, or
chronic, if in due time applied, the iodates and mercurials will
remove them, or stay their progress. Suffered to go on unin-
terrupted they become of irregular growths, from four ounces
to two pounds and upwards in weight, produciug according to
circumstances various derangements in the animal system; the
knife then becomes the only remedy, particularly where the
life of the animal is in jeopardy. I have removed them of the
sizes named by operation, which takes from ten to fifteen
minutes, having the animal properly secured ; then dress and
heal the wound in the common way. I have a case at thig
time where the gland was so large that suffocation was
threatened, the breathing loud and difficult, and the animal
reduced to a state of emaciation. I removed the diseased
gland, and my subject is progressing favourably, out at grass
at Hellaby Hall pastures. Persons who are acquainted with
the structure of those parts may not fear the operation : although
the tumour is in connection with the large blood-vessels of the
throat, yet two ounces of blood need not be lost.

Tickhill, Sept. 20llt, 1854. C, S,, V. S,

CURE FOR DISTEMPER IN CALVES.— The follow-
ing cure was given to us by Thomas M. Lennon, Esq., of
Forgney, Ballymahon: — One table-spoonful of Barbadoes tar,
one do. of white-wine vinegar, and one do. of salad oil ; all
mixed together, and to be given every second day. Mr. Lennon
has practical proof of the value of the above remedy : he pro-
cured it from Thompson, the Hon. L. H. K. Harman's herd,
who also speaks highly of it. — Irish Farmers' Gazette,

886

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

BEEF, MUTTON, AND BREAD

A council composed of noble and gentle amateurs, a sprink-
ivg of real farmers, a library of books on agriculture which
few read, models of implements which few examine, and
samples of seeds for which few inquire — these are the cotnpo-
uents of the Royal Agricultural Society as it exists in a dingy
mansion of Hanover-square, London. For eleven months of
the year its only sign of life is an occasional discussion, from
v/hich reporters for the public press are inflexibly excluded ;
but on the twelfth there follows, thanks to railroads, a July
fortaight of real agricultural work. Then the whole agricul-
tural element of the district chosen for the annual show is set
feraienting by the presence of the most agricultural members
of the societ}', and a general invitation to all Euglaudtocome
forward and compete for prizes with their agricultural imple-
ments and live stock. This year the great agricultural holiday
was held at Lincoln — once the nucleus of Roman roads ; now
in the centre of one of the finest farming districts in the
country, and connected by railways with every county between
Plymouth and Aberdeen.

Eighty-four years ago, Arthur Young, one of the most far-
seeing and graphic writers on English agriculture, made the
journey from Peterborough to Lincoln on horseback, occupy-
ing twice as many days as a railway train takes hours; fol-
lowing ancient ways, partly of Roman construction, and passing
over causeways through seas of fresh water, which now, thanks to
the Cornish steam-engines, have been drained into fat pastures,
where on every acre an ox or cow, bred far noith, can be fat-
tened for the London market.

As I approached Lincoln to be present at the fourteen days'
show, the evidences of the past and present met me on either
hand. Of the present, in the shape of solemn but amiable-
looking bulls, carefully clothed in slices of Brussels carpet
hemmed and edged with tape ; heifers of equally pure blood ;
and Leicester and South Down sheep, all riding comfortably
in railway trucks. A real monument of the past rose on
Dunston Heath : Dunston Tower, erected iu the last century
as a lighthouse to guide travellers across the black moor
between Spilsby and Lincoln — a waste then, but now the
centre of farming as fine as any in Europe ; at least so I was
told by a tall, rosy, wiry, pleasant-faced farmer, in a full suit
of shepherd's plaid. And here I must note that the real John
Bull farmer, whom artists of a waning school depict in top-
boots, seated before a foaming jug of nut brown ale, and beside
the portrait of a prize ox, seems to have been improved out of
the country. My closest researches at Lincoln did not discover
a single specimen.

There was no mistake about the character of the meeting :
i did not require top-boots to indicate that it was not scien-
tific, nor antiquarian, nor literary, nor military, nor commer-
cial ; but, that it was simply aud solely agricultural. The
whole multitude of strangers who crowded the street — study-
ing the Latin motto of " Floreat Lindum," inscribed in red
letters upon white calico on the arch of evergreens, or holding
conversations round the steps of the hotels— had a breezy
out-of-door, healthy, tallyhoish appearance. Black, bay, and
gray horses, of huge proportions, gaily adorned with ribbons
(the unmistakable sires of London dray-horses), were led care-
fully along towards the show-ground by the only top-boots
extant. Roan shorthorns, red Devons, and white-faced Here-
ford bulls, cows with interesting palves, and plump heifers.

paced along with a deliberation and placidity worthy of their
high breeding. It is only young Highland kyloes and Scotch
runts that played wild tricks, and scampered, as Leigh Hunt
said of certain pigs, down all manner of streets. Anon came
a select pen of ewes, or a ram, conducted with the sort of care
we can imagine the sultan's guard to bestow on an importation
of plump Circassian beauties.

Guided out of sight of the bovine and ovine procession by
the shrill squeal of discontented Yorkshire pigs nearly as large
as, and much heavier than, Alderney cows ; across the bridge
over that Witham stream througli which Romans, and Dane?,
and Saxons, and Normans successively rowed, on their way to
Peterborough ; along a gay and dusty road, where stood those
wonderful works of art dear to my childhood's dreams —
Wombwellian wild beasts painted on acres of canvass in the
most exciting situations ; at length I reached the show-yard.
The parallelogram of some four acres contained an epitome of
the materials and tools which make modern British agricul-
ture what it is. There were instruments for cultivating all
sorts of soils ; and live stock which can be sent to the
butcher's in one-fourth the time that our ancestors found in-
dispensable for producing fat meat. In natural course the
implements come before the stock which they have helped to
bring to perfection.

Ttie first operation for bringing our food into a condition
fit for the butcher or the baker is to turn over the soil, for
which the best implement that has yet been invented is a
plough. In the Lincoln yard there were not less than thirty-
nine sorts of iron ploughs, for every degree of work, from
scratching the turf to turning up the earth twenty inches
deep. Those who have seen the rude ploughs still in use in
the south of Frauce and Italy (where the team is often com-
posed of a dwarf milch cow, a donkey, and a wife ; the hus-
band holding the one stilt) will be surprised to learn that in
1730 a plough was made at Rotherham which was better than
those even now in use in the worst-cultivatedeounties of Eng-
land and Wales ; and that, so far back as 1677, subsoiling or
loosening the earth very deep, so as to let water faU through
and fibres of roots to penetrate — one of the most valuable im-
provements of modern agriculture, which we now owe to
Smith of Deanston — was practised by a young man of Kent.
But in agriculture, abo'se all other useful arts, improvements,
and inventions not only travel slowly, but are often despised
during the lifetime of the inventor ; and, after him, are for-
gotten.

The frame of the most approved ploughs is made of wrought,
the share of cast iron, qase hardened ; the coulter, or cutting-
knife, being of iron and steel. They are provided with wheels.
It requires three or four ploughs of different construction to
do the work of a single farm thoroughly.

After the ground has been ploughed, it requires to be broken
into as fine a condition as possible to receive seed. For this
purpose, on the continent and in Australia, a thick bush ia
often used, such as Gervase Markham, writing in 1688, re-
commends in his " Farewell to Husbandry." " Get," saith he,
" a pretty big whitethorn tree, and make sure it be wonderful
thick, bushy, and rough grown." The bushy tree was thrown
aside for a harrow of wooden spikes ; which has since been
superseded by instruments of iron, such as harrows and scuf-
flers or scarifiers, by which the soil is cleaned, stirred, and

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287

broken up to a due degree of fineness. Of these several sorts
of earth-torturers, there were thirty-five exhibitors at Lincoln.
With such a choice there is no difficulty in selecting imple-
ments which, whatever the quality of the soil, will pulverize
the clods left by the plough, clear away the weeds and roots,
and cover with earth the seeds sown over the surface.

Next in order come a set of machines invented in conse-
quence of the introduction of such portable manures as guano,
nitrate of soda, soot, salt, superphosphate, &c., which it may
be advisable to distribute broadcast or in a liquid state. A
few years ago the farmer was entirely dependent on farm-yard
manure ; which, still valuable, is bulky, expensive to move,
and even when dug in, not sufficiently stimulating for certain
crops. It is advantageous, for instance, to force forward
turnips with great rapidity, in order to place them beyond the
ravages of the fly. To this end chemistry is always at work to
find or to compound new manures. Bones were a great dis-
covery in their day; but now, fossil bones of antediluvian
beasts are, with sulphuric acid, made useful for growing roots
to feed Christmas bullocks. Bones were the earliest portable
manure used for turnips — first nearly whole ; then crushed ;
next, on the suggestion of a great chemist, dissolved in sul-
phuric acid; and now distributed over the land in a water-
drill. Portable manures are expensive, and machine distribu-
tion is more regular and economical than hand casting. At
Lincoln, mechanical invention was found keeping pace with
chemical discoveries. Ten sorts of machines were there for
distributing portable manures in a dry state, the last and best
being the invention of a young Norfolk farmer, and constructed
by a village blacksmith.

The ground manured, is ready for seed. In certain eases
both are put in at the same time. The ancient sower — whose
race is not wholly extinct — fastened the seed round his waist
and shoulder with a sheet, and dexterously cast the grain right
and left as he traversed the field ; but, in seventeen hundred
and thirty-three Jethro Tull, who nearly touched without
actually grasping, some of the greatest improvements in agri-
culture, invented a corn and turnip drill and a horse hoe for
ridging up and clearing weeds away ; an operation only to be
done by hand labour after broadcast sowing. But in this he
was before his time. Yet his contrivance has since been
adopted and improved upon sufficiently to yield samples at
Lincoln, from thirty exhibitors. Among them were three
liquid manure or water drills, which were invented about ten
years ago, and pushed into notice within three. These are now
making rapid way among the turnip sowers in light, level, dry
districts.

The horse-hoe naturally follows the drill, whether to scuffle
up weeds or to embank earth along the sides of roots.
Formerly the great obstacle to the use of implements which
enable farm work to be done by mechanism, was a state of
society and a system of poor laws which gave the farmer no
choice between paying poor-rates or wages for labourers he
was better without ; but farmers in eighteen hundred and
fifty-four have no fear of surplus labour or of overwhelming
poor-rates ; consequently, specimens of twenty horse-hces of
every degree of ingenuity were scrutinized at Lincoln, and
largely purchased. The latest invention was a rotatory hoe,
invented last year by a Norfolk farmer, which thins out
turnips with marvellous swiftness and exactness ; thus promis-
ing to Biipsrsede the degrading hand labour of the Norfolk
gangs of boys and girls.

After crops are fairly sown, hoed, and weeded, the next
operation is gathering : this brings us to carts and waggons ;
the wheels of which are made by machinery, at some of the
large implement factories, at the rate of thousands per annum.

Twenty one-horse carts were shown ; and it is to be hoped
that by degrees the lumbering, ill-balanced vehicles seen in too
many English and Irish counties will be superseded by the
light Scotch cart.

But before carting comes mowing, and reaping, and hay-
making. In grass-mowing no machine has yet superseded
the scythe. But every year spreads more widely the use of
the haymaking machine, a revolving cylinder with prongs,
which, driven by a horse, lightly tosses the grass, and saves
half the work of the haymaker. Four such machines by
different makers were shown : the best were ordered in greater
number than the makers could execute. This machine, like
the horse-rake (of which a dozen were displayed in the Lincoln
yard), is one of the simple implements that every farmer
short of his usual supply of Irish labourers (now better em-
ployed in tilling the back woods of America) should use ; for
it can be kept in order without the help of a skilled mechanic.

The history of the reaping machine, from the days of Pliny
to the contrivance of the Scotch minister. Bell, is too large
and interesting to be dismissed in a paragraph. It must for
the present be enough to say that in the field trials at lincoln
there was nothing more exciting or comical than the straggling
competition between the machine reapers, when they charged
into the standing corn, and cut and laid it down ready for the
binders at the rate of at least two acres per hour. But some
other time the story of the reaper — a real romance— must be
told.

Passing now from the field to the rickyard, the rickstand
must not be overlooked. It is a pillar, and mushroom cap of
stone or iron, to lift the rick from the ground, and to cheat-
as we learned at the late Durham Assizes — rats and mice of
no less than forty per cent, of the grain per annum ; yet
hundreds of farmers will not spend a few shillings ou rick-

From the rick, the next step is to the barn machinery; and
what a step! — from the clay thrashing floor, and the flail,
stupefying the thrasher and wasting the corn, and the rude
winnowing machine dependent on a breezy day, to the beau-
tiful steam-driven thrashing machines, by which corn is
thrashed, winnowed, stacked, and weighed, while the straw is
hoisted to the straw-loft, to be there, if needful, by the same
steam power, and by one operation, cut into chaff for cattle.
At Lincoln there were upwards of twenty-five thrashing
machines exhibited, the greater number of which would thrash
corn at about ninepence a quarter, or less than half the cost
of hand labour. Yet it is only within the last five years that
this machine driven by steam power has invaded some of the
best corn-growing counties in England.

Last in the list come steam engines, which steam food, cut
chaff, pulp roots, thrash grain, raise loads, pump water, and
drive liquid manure through pipes, at an insignificant expense,
permitting a farmer to be always ready to send his crops to
market at short notice. Without pretending to examine those
bewildering coujunctions of cranks and wheels, the mere fact
of five-and-twenty steam engines entered for agricultural use,
at prices beginning at one hundred pounds, shows the road
the British farmer is now marching. Ten years ago, half-a-
dozen agricultural steam engines, consuming double the quan-
tity of fuel now required, were gazed upon — in England,
though not in Scotland — as curiosities. Now, it pays twenty-
five makers to send these weighty specimens as showcards to
farmers whenever and wherever the Royal Agricultural Society
holds its meetings.

The criticism of the practical men who travelled from all
parts of the kingdom to review the implement show at Lincoln,
proved that a large number of farmers had fully discovered

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THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

tbe value of coal and iroa=-that coal and iron are as effectual
in producing motive power for agricultural operations, as for
driving spinning jennies and propelling steam- vessels. There
is still at least one hundred years of darkness and prejudice
between the districts where such sentiments are held, and
where the wooden wheelless plough, the clumsy harrow, broad-
cast sowing, hand-hoeing, flail-thrashing, undrained land, and
iil-housed stock are the rule. Not that any number of imple-
ments, or the study of any number of books, will make a
farmer. Science, to be useful, must be sown on a practical
and fruitful soil. The keenest steel axe must be wielded by a
practised hand.

Having raised our crops by a good use of the implements
in the Lincoln yard, we must now turn to the live stock.

The shorthorns — arranged in order, bulls, cows with calves,
and heifers, in the rich variety of colour peculiar to the aristo-
cracy of the ox tribe— come first in view. Some strawberry
roan, some red and white, some milk white ; but all so much
alike in form and face, that to the uninitiated the roan bulls
might be all brothers, and the white cows all sisters. Short
legs, vast round carcases, flat backs ; not an angle nor a point,
except at the muzzle and the horns — are the characteristics of
the descendants of CoUings' Durhams. A little farther on,
the bulls, quite as large, are the Herefords, red, with white
faces, and here and there white bellies ; the cows smaller, with
less of a dairy look than the shorthorns. Third in order
appear tbe Devons, in colour one deep red, with deer-like
heads ; plump but delicate, and small in stature. These three
breeds, of which a hundred and seventy-one specimens were
sent, represent the best beef that England, after about a
hundred years of pains and experiment, can raise. All English
herds of cattle maintained on first-rate farms are one of these
three breeds— shorthorns, Herefords, or Devons. Scotland
has breeds of its own. The Argyle ox, in his improved shape,
is one of the legacies of Duke Archibald, Jeannie Deans'
friend, bred on the hills and vales of the Highlands, and
which, fattened in the private yards of Lincoln, Norfolk, and
Bedford, produces beef second to none. The Ayrshire cow is
unrivalled for dairy use; but, as these are not bred in
England, they do not come into competition in a show of
English breeding stock.

The sheep shown for prizes are subject to as few divisions
as the cattle. There are pure Leicesters (once called the New
Leicesters, but the old have all died out) ; the long-wools, not
beino-Leicesters, of which the prime victors are all Cotswolds;
and the short-wools, or South Downs, a class under which
rivals from Wiltshire and Norfolk compete with Sussex, the
cradle of the improved breed. As for pigs, they are divided
into large and small only, although known by many names.

Considering how much of our domestic happiness and public
prosperity is dependent on a supply of prime beef in steaks,
sirloins, and rounds ; on chops, legs, and saddles of mutton ;
on streaky rashers, and Yorkshire and Cumberland hams — it
will not be time wasted to explain how it comes to pass that
in every county of the kingdom there are to be found not only
wealthy amateurs, but practical farmers, who devote their
whole time to producing prime animals of pure blood, not
always at a profit; and how the country gains from stock so
plump, cubical, and unpicturesque ; for it is not to be gainsaid
that the wild cattle of the Roman Campagna or the Andalu-
sian pastures are more suited to figure as models for the painter
than under the knife of the carver. A Yorkshire farmer re-
marked, when shown the Toro Farnese, that " there couldn't
be many prime cuts sliced out of Mm."

By the exertions of only a few zealous agriculturists, during
the last hundred years, good meat has been placed within the

reach of the people at large. The roast beef of Old England,
which some fancy to have been the ordinary fare of our
ancestors in the days of Queen Bess, was really and truly the
tough and tasteless produce of leau, black, worn-out draught
oxen, or leathery old cows, and that only procurable fresh for
four months in the year. Those who have travelled in the
south of Europe, or on the Rhine, have seen the greyhound-
like pigs, the lean gaunt sheep, the angular and active cows,
unincumbered with sirloins and almost destitute of lungs,
which pick up a miserable existence on the roadsides. A hun-
dred years ago, with a few rare exceptions, the ordinary breeds
of live stock in Great Britain were just as lean, ill-shaped, aud
slow-growing. And to those who inquire what we have
gained by the enthusiasm with which noblemen and gentlemen
have followed cattle-breeding, it can be answered that the ox,
which used to be with difficulty fattened at sis years old, is
now presentible in superlative condition upon the Christmas
board at three years old. The sheep, which formerly fed in
summer and starved in winter until five years old, are now fit
for the butcher in twenty months, with a better and more
even fleece. And the pig, which formerly ran races until two
years had passed, is now fit for the knife after eating and
sleeping comfortably and cleanly, as a gentleman should, for
nine months only.

This change has been brought about partly by the improve-
ment of our agriculture, a closer .study of the habits of
animals, and an increased supply of food placed within our
reach by extended commerce, and a rational system of customs
duties ; and partly by discoveries in the art of breeding.
Formerly our cattle and sheep were entirely dependent on
natural herbage for their food. In summer they grew fat ; in
winter they starved and grew thin, having nothing to depend
on but such hay as could be saved. The first great step,
therefore, towards the improvement of cattle was the employ-
ment of the turnip and other roots which could be stored in
winter. An experienced farmer calculates that with roots,
oxen improve nearly one-fourth more than those fed on hay
alone. The use of turnips enabled sheep to be fed where
nothing but gorse or rushes grew before. Neal, the mechanic,
stepped in with a chaff-cutter, prepared hay aud straw to mix
with roots, aud, with a turnip-cutter, saved six months in
getting sheep ready for the kitchen.

The use of a dry, palatable, nutritious food, called oilcake,
which could be carried into the field to sheep to help out a
short crop, followed ; and further studies proved the use of
peas and beans and foreign pulse in giving lambs bone and
muscle. It was found, too, by experiment, that warm feeding
yards saved food: that, in short, the best way of getting
stock into prime condition was to feed them well, to attend to
their health, and never, from their earliest days, to allow them
to get thin.

But before these discoveries had been made, the breeds of
English live-stock were in regular course of improvement.
No kind of food can make an ill-bred, ill-shaped beast fat in
time to be profitable. Just as some men are more inclined to
get fat than others, so are some animals ; aud by selecting indi-
viduals of proper shape with this tendency, certain breeds have
been stereotyped into a never-failing type : that type in an ox
and sheep is one which presents the largest extent of prime
meat and least amount of o2"al ; or, as a Southdown breeder
expressed it, " a perfect sheep should be, as nearly as possible,
all legs and loins of mutton."

To make this improvement required a certain talent, enthu-
siasm, and years of patience. Breeders of pure stock, like
mechanical inventors, do not, on an average, make money.
On the contrary, for the pleasure of the pursuit and the hope

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28D

of success they expend large fortunes ; while a few win great
prizes. But the country gains enoimously in resvxlt ; for now
the same space of ground will feed more than twice the quan-
tity of beef and mutton that it would fifty years ago. The
animals not only come to maturity in Balf the time, but, fed
partly in yards or stalls, they spoil less ground with treading,
and return to the soil highly concentrated and productive
manure.

The first man who made stock-breeding a fashionable put-
suit — and that is a great thiog in a country where fashion
rules too much— was Robert Bakewell, of Dishley, in Leices-
tershire, the son and grandson of farmers, but, if we mistake
not, himself a barrister. With horned cattle, he aimed at the
cardinal improvements which are now universally established
and admitted in this country where the growth of meat — less
than the dairy, as in Holland and Switzerland — is the prin-
cipal object. He tried to produce a large cylindrical body,
small head, small neck, small extremities, and small bone. He
said that all was useless that was not beef; and sought, by
choosing and pairing the best specimens, to make the shoulders
comparatively small and the hind quarters large, which is
exactly the reverse of animals allowed to breed freely, and to
gallop at liberty over wide pastures. Even the cattle of Aus-
tralia bred from pure specimens, after running wild for a few
generations, begin to lose the fine sirloins of their English an-
cestors, growing tough and stringy for the spit iu proportion
as they become active.

In sheep, Mr. Bakewell declared that his object was mutton,
not wool ; and, disregarding mere size, which is a vulgar test
of merit, he chose animals which had that external form which
is a sign of producing the most muscle and fat, and the least
bone ; and, by careful selection and breeding, he stamped a
form on the Leicester sheep which it retains to this day.

The Southdowns, doubtless an indigenous breed, feed on the
bare pasture of the southern coast, produce a fine quality of
meat, and a close short wool. It was the turnip that rendered
feeding the Southdown while young possible. The great im-
provement began with John Ellman of Glynde, near Lewes, in

the year seventeen hundred and eighty. He preserved the
form of the original breed, but corrected the too great height
of the fore-quarters, widened the chest, made the back broader,
the ribs more curved, and the trunk more symmetrical and
compact. The ancestors of the present race were rarely killed
until the third or fourth year. They are now sent to execution at
two years, and sometimes even at fifteen months old. They
have since spread far ; superseding the breeds of Berkshire,
Hampshire, Wiltshire, crossing and altering the Shropshire,
extending into Dorsetshire, Surrey, Norfolk, Devonshire, Here-
fordshire, Wales, and even toward Westmoreland and Cum-
berland, and have improved all the breeds of blackfaced heath
sheep.

The crowning events in the history of beef and mutton
bring us back to agricultural shows ; which were established
by James Duke of Bedford at Woburn, by Mr. Coke, after-
wards Earl of Leicester, at Holkham. At these "sheep-
shearings" the great houses were thrown open to agriculturists
of all countries and counties. Stock were displayed, imple-
ments were tried, prizes were distributed, and gentlemen of
rank and fortune, of all opinions and politics, threw themselves
with enthusiasm into agricultural discussions, and enjoyed the
excitement of hospitality, competition, and applause. For
instance, iu seventeen hundred and ninety-nine, we find in the
Gentleman's Magazine, in an account of a Woburn sheep-
shearing, held on the twenty-first of June, names siuce become
classical in connection with pure breeds : Coke, of Norfolk ;
Quartley, from Devonshire; Parsons, from Somersetshire;
Ellman, from Sussex; worthy successors in the cattle-breeding
art, of Bakewell, the brothers Collings, Tomkins, Lord Somer-
ville, and several others. " From one hundred to a hundred
and ninety sat down to dinner for five days successively. Pre-
miums for cattle, sheep, and ploughing were distributed, and
his Grace let about seventy Southdown and new Leicester
rams for one thousand pounds. The conversation was entirely
agricultural, and the question was discussed whether the New
Leicester or the Southdown were the better breed of sheep."
— Household Words.

THE DROUGHT— A WORD OF CAUTION TO STOCK-MASTERS.

Since the year 1826 we have not had such a dry
season, and its trying effects have been severely felt
by every grazier in the kingdom. The want of whole-
some water has been only exceeded by insufSciency
of food. Every expedient has been exhausted to
supply the stock with their daily requirements, but
in vain ; and it has been truly painful to see flock
after flock, herd after herd, wending their way to
some distant watering, looking like skeletons of
what they ought to be, rather than the thriving,
prosperous animal. To keep them from shrinking
was out of question; the difficulty, in very many
cases, was to keep them alive. We have heard of
many extraordinary " shifts" to which stock-masters
have been compelled to resort, none of which need
be detailed here. The fact is certain, that great loss
in the condition of almost every animal has been the
result of the long drought of the past season ; and
the word of caution I presume to give is with the

view of preventing a further depreciation in condi-
tion, if not actual death. I need not say that the
time of transition from " summer" to " winter keep-
ing" is always a time of unusual anxiety with stock-
masters. All kinds of stock require more peculiarly
careful attention at this period. It is astonishing with
what rapidity they wUl degenerate under improper
management ; and at this season (the approach of
winter) they are irrecoverably gone if once seriously
affected with any of the various maladies resulting
from an untoward season, " bad keeping," or from the
unhealthy, unthrifty condition of the animal from
previous deprivations : these have seldom been greater
than during the past summer. To face and get through
probably a lengthened winter, we have, then, a stock
of animals comparatively pined throughout the sum-
mer, thus rendering their physical natures more liable
to disease, while at the same time they are actually
in a very unsatisfactory and low condition as animals

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— two veryimportant considerations in animal econoiny
to contend with.

My great fear is, that if prompt and active mea-
sures are not immediately resorted to, in order to
check the downward course of such animals, and to
iafuse into their systems new energy and life, the
loss or casualties during the ensuing winter will be
very great indeed, perhaps unparalleled. To prevent
this I would offer one or two suggestions.

I would urge all stock-masters to adopt every
means in their power to improve the condition of their
stock — not by any violent or extreme change of
keeping, but to supply them gradually, according to
their condition, with such nutritious food as he can
best command ; and in this he must for once be re-
gardless of expense. The animal must be prepared
by good treatment to stand a change of keeping and
the winter's vicissitudes, or the consequences are
too well known : whole flocks are frequently swept
away, owing to their being put upon stronger and
more nutritious keeping than they were fitted for,
or prepared to sustain. Strong animals will thrive
upon strong food, but it will kill the weak ones :
they must be -prepared for whatever food they are to
be sustained upon. Young dehcate animals, in the
autumn, should never be allowed to partake of
frosted grass or like food; they ought to be all
housed or folded at night upon dry fodder, and turned
out awhile after sunrise, if requisite.

As one means of supply, I would suggest that as

we have much coarse barley this season, it might
in moderation be given to the stronger animals,
and cake, meal, and oats to the weaker ones, in
addition to their ^sual provender. Turnips and
similar food should be given very sparingly at first.
I would urge great attention to provisional or tem-
porary shelters, and good lairage. These are indis-
pensable to the well-being of every tender and deli-
cate animal, and it surprisingly promotes the
improvement of the hardy one. In the fold-yard
modern agriculture has prompted such necessary
erections, but in the field, shelters are not often seen;
they are, however, quite as conducive to promote
the healthiness of sheep as of cattle, and ought to be
universally adopted, more particularly under the cir-
cumstances which now induce me to write upon this
subject — namely, the probability of a long and trying
winter before us, and the stock unprepared to with-
stand it, owing to their low condition, the consequence
of the almost unexampled drought of the last spring
and summer.

I feel assured that it is altogether unnecessary
for me to say more ; the good sense of all stock-
masters will suggest to themselves individually better
modes of proceeding to attain the desired end than
I can point out as a general rule. I only desire most
earnestly to direct their immediate notice to the sub-
ject as one of pressing importance, knowing that a
little " timely" attention may prevent great loss and
disappointment. P. F.

THE SHEEP.

" Out of tlie gcound the Lord God formed every beast of
the field, and every fowl of the air, and brought them unto
Adam, to see what he would call them ; and whatever Adam
called every living creature, that was the name thereof :

" And to every beast of the earth, and to every fowl of the
air, and to every thing that creepeth upon the earth v/herein
there is life, I have given every green herb for meat : and it
was 30." Moses.

The origin of the sheep, along with that of all other
animals, is plainly accounted for by the sacred historian
as the work of God at the commencement of the
Adamitic era of the world, and from that time it has
continued in the possession of man, although a proneness
in every age has esisted to suppose the contrary — blind
philosophy discovering in wild animals the origin of do-
mesticated breeds, as she does in wild plants almost every
cultivated member of the vegetable kingdom ! The
existence of fossil remains of previous epochs is no ob-
jection to its soundness ; for it was just as easy to call
these fossil remains into life again, as to preserve the
animal kingdom alive, as was done at the Noahitic, were
it impossible otherwise to account for apparent discre-

pancies of this kind by geological data. In short, when
the Almighty interferes, human reason must be silent.

The origin of the sheep is not only thus accounted for
satisfactorily, and its distribution throughout the world
by the scattering of the human race at the dispersion of
Babel, but the Divine Artist being a perfect one, it was
consequently created perfect— incapable of being im-
proved upon by superior management and breeding
aftervfards. The inspired writer silences any objection
which may be raised to this when he informs us that
Divine V/isdom pronounced all His works " good."
In Paradisiacal times, therefore, there was but one
happy family, the earth spontaneously yielding a
plentiful harvest of bread-corn, fruit, and other escu-
lents, supplying the whole animal kingdom with an
abundance of suitable food, the" lion and lamb" feeding
together, somewhat similar to what many of us have seen
the pet lamb, dog, and kitten doing at the farmer's or
shepherd's fire-side, with youngsters higher in the scale
of life. But such a period was of short duration ; for
the fall of man, and curse which followed, brought de-
generacy and discord into the family, with an universal
scramble to procure the daily necessaries of life, the

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291

earth no longer yielding her increase as formerly. The
different members of the animal kingdom now not only
showed a tendency to degenerate or " run wild," but to
devour each other— the supremacy ^of man himself being
even called in question, a supremacy only maintained
by mechanical means and intelligence of the highest
order.

Of all our domesticated animals, the sheep is perhaps
the most dependent upon man for protection from the
inroads of beasts of prey, and other casualties of no less
destructive a nature. Its mode of life, history, and de-
fenceless character bear ample evidence of this ; and the
manner in which flocks when scattered feeding, hastily,
gather themselves together on the slightest disturbance,
prove that they themselves are instinctively sensible of
it. The gentleness and timidity of this useful creature
are proverbially acknowledged ; while its confidence in
the shepherd who takes care of it, is equally conspicuous.
Sacred history teems with interesting accounts of the
sheep, itself the type of innocence, and the important
place it occupied both in the antediluvian and post-
diluvian epochs. " Abel was a keeper of sheep," for
instance, and " Jabal the father of such as dwell in
tents, and such as have cattle." The flocks of Terah,
Abram, Job, and Jesse, again, occupy an equally pro-
minent place as the staple wealth of their times ; while
the many touching incidents connected with its manage-
ment during night, as well as day, prove that its natural
history was probably then as well understood by shep-
herds generally as it is now ; while its wants, under all
the circumstances of the case, were far better cared for.

There is to this day a singular contrast between the
management of sheep in this country and that of oriental
climes, and many parts of the continent of Europe,
which says little for the boasted position which we
occupy among the nations of the world, as to civiliza-
tion ; for, on the one hand, there is a vast amount of
barbarity connected with the practice of our shepherds,
which seriously digraces its character and reduces its
success ; while, on the other, even in the midst of bar-
barity itself, a gentleness of treatment, so to speak, is
extended towards sheep, productive of the happiest
consequences. A contrast so calamitous as this obviously
calls for a little comment, which will occupy the re-
mainder of this article.

Our practice is based on that of barbarous times, our
forefathers, Celtic and Saxon, being savages, cultivating
a fierce and warlike spirit in their offspring, which never
failed to manifest itself throughout the entire routine of
life, scarcely less in the management of their flocks and
herds than in the ch^'se and battle-field. Domestic
broils, inter-clannish and national feuds, and open war,
were their common pastime, so that the tending of
sheep fell to the aged and disabled, casehardened to
cruelty, and boys aspiring to heroic deeds of fame, from
whom little could be expected but harsh treatment.
Self-interest, and that reciprocation of brute feeling
which exists between all savages and the animals they
possess, would, no doubt, induce circumspection to a
certain extent — a result which history plainly confirms ;
but the care bestowed upon flocks was, nevertheless, of
the rudest kind, in the handling of them during lambing)

shearing, and milking, the conduct of the sheepdog
corresponding with it. Now too much of this harshness
and barbarity has been allowed to remain in our prac-
tice. We have made many advances in the feeding and
improvement of breed, both of which had degenerated
during pagan times ; but we have unfortunately brought
along with us much that we ought to have left behind,
which stamps upon the practice of the shepherd a rude-
ness of character entirely at variance with the more
helpless and dependent state to which art has now
reduced the sheep — its docile and gentle disposition
naturally, and that dignified buoyancy of spirit, so to
speak, which so signally and prominently characterizes
it. In short, our practice, with all its advances, is yet
subject to further improvements ; for it upbraids us
with a degree of cruelty to this harmless and invaluable
creature no less unmerited by it than inconsistent with
the progress we ourselves have made in the arts and
sciences generally, furnishing to every writer a subject
of regret.

The practice of the East, on the contiary, is descended
from a higher, if not the highest, degree of science the
world has ever enjoyed, without an intervening period
of barbarism. There can be no doubt as to the intelli-
gence, for instance, which Adam possessed prior to his
fall : the naming of the animals proves this : while the
difference consequent upon that calamity was, a know-
ledge of evil as well as of good. No doubt, he was not
acquainted with the ninety and nine appliances and pro-
cesses of mechanical and chemical science subsequently
called into existence to ameliorate the consequences of
the fall, much less the practice of medicine and surgery,
neither being required ; but a thorough knowledge of
first principles, and of the nature of the animal, vege-
table, and mineral kingdoms, would soon enable him to
reduce them to practice ; while the great age to which
mankind then lived would facilitate and secure the com-
munication of this knowledge to posterity — a result
exemplified, on the very threshold of human aflairs, as
the sacred historian informs us, by the early subdivision
of labour, both in the useful and ornamental arts. The
construction of such a stupendous vessel as the ,ark,
again, proves that the science of mechanics was well
understood by Noah and his sous ; while the Tower of
Babel, the early kingdoms of Nineveh, Babylon, Egypt,
and others of the east, with the sculptures now being
dug up from their ruins, the immense works of irriga-
tion on the Tigris, Euphrates, and Nile, the subdivision
of labour into castes (as existing to this day after the
antediluvian fashion), &c., &c., afford the best evidence
that the same was handed down from generation to
generation ; the science of agriculture being less under-
stood in modern times than in those of the patriarch just
mentioned. In other words, farming was much more
successfully carried out during the period between the
flood and dispersion at Babel, than under the Moham-
medan era : a given area of land supporting a much
larger population.

The state of religion, again, has probably exercised a
greater influence upon the morality of the shepherd, as
extended towards his flock, than that of physical science.
It is a well-known fact to missionaries^ for instance, that

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THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

Christianity tames the fiercest savage, making him not
only gentler towards his fellow-creature, but the brute
creation. Now Britain and the East are also in opposite
circumstances here ; for Noah, Abram, Job, and the
early patriarchs, were more righteous men than their
successors, while the immolations of our Druidical fore-
fathers are too horrible to narrate.

Such, therefore, being the differences of the past, it
consequently becomes an easier task to I'econcile those
of the present to each other ; for in the east the proper
management of sheep being once understood and securely
established in a country where it constituted its principal
wealth, the practice would naturally descend from gene-
ration to generation, without suffering any depreciation
beyond what the fertility or barrenness of the soil might
necessitate, which last would affect the quality of the
breed and mutton rather than the morale of manage-
ment ; while in this country practice was so warped with
the cruelties and superstition of Druidical times, that
the evil communications of the past must always have
exercised an unfavourable influence upon the character
of the future. Although flocks and herds, for instance,
formed a large amount of the wealth of the early Britons,
vet hunting was esteemed a more honourable occupation
than tending sheep, and always appreciated as the most
profitable source from whence to derive the daily neces-
saries of life. This, no doubt, arose from the warlike
character of the age, and the difficulty of preserving
domesticated animals in it, while a plentiful supply of
wild required no caring for, being always at hand when
required. Such a spirit was long cultivated, and is to
this day, unfortunately, but too conspicuously exempli-
fied and even perpetuated, as it were, in the working of
our game-laws, where it may be seen no less deeply
rooted in the mind of the poor man than in that of the
rich : a spirit which has never failed to exhibit a harsh-
ness of conduct to every living creature that comes in
the way, from which the hand of the shepherd is far
from exempt.

History, sacred and profane, does not leave us with-
out many instructive illustrations of what we have just
been saying. The case of Jacob, while serving his
father-in-law, is perhaps one of the most interesting
examples. The simple facts so graphically narrated by
the inspired writer prove that the patriarch was tho-
roughly master of the duties of a shepherd. The oppo-
site of harshness was obviously experienced by his
flock ; for he was " a good shepherd," knowing his own
sheep by name, and they his voice. The training of
sheep to answer to their names and come out of the
flock to the shepherd when called upon, with the prac-
tice of following behind instead of being driven before,
prove not only the attention paid to their welfare, but
also the docility and sagacity of the sheep itself, as
being nothing inferior to that of the dog. It must also
have proved higuly favourable to growth, fattening, and
quality ; for it is a well- authenticated fact that sheep do
much better under the care of a shepherd who treats
them gently than under that of one who treats them
harshly. There are few of our readers, perhaps, who
are not sensible of the fact that the difference, on a
small flock, far exceeds the wages of the shepherd ; so

that the question at issue is one of no mean importance.
Moreover, if such is the result between good and bad
shepherds in our own practice, what would it be were
our flocks treated with the same degree of humanity and
care as were those of the patriarch Jacob, making suffi-
cient allowance for the difference in circumstances in
our favour arising from modern improvements ? The
more we improve the breed — forcing the animal, as it
were, to a greater weight in a less time — the more ne-
cessity is there for kind and gentle treatment ; and we
may safely go the length of training them to answer to
their names, as is practised to this day throughout the
East, and many of the continental states of Europe.
Those who have bred prize sheep for the shows of the
Royal Agricultural Society, as we have done, will rea-
dily appreciate the soundness of these observations. So
far as our own experience bears upon the problem, we
have found it the first practical lesson to success ; for,
until we got our sheep to come up to us when called, or
when we held out the hand to them, we never got a
prize. We had the greatest difficulty in dealing with
the bad temper of an excellent shepherd otherwise,
whom the sheep never had the same confidence in as in
ourselves. It is surprising how quickly the keen eye of
the pen would discover whether or not he was in a good
or bad temper ; for, if the former, they would bid him
welcome in !their own way the moment he entered the
hovel, and if the latter, keep as much at their distance
as possible. When once you have gained their confi-
dence, it is remarkable how soon they will learn to turn
this side or that, as you may wish to handle them, pro-
vided always you do so gently and zw good humour, and
even lie down, turning up their belly or feet, like a dog
or pig, that you may handle the former or clean or
dress the latter if necessary, thus saving a vast amount
of hardship they are subjected to when turned up by the
rude hands of a churlish shepherd. Nor is this intuitive
sagacity of the sheep confined to pens of extra fat stock ;
for lean sheep— even the blackfaced ones of the north-
repose a very different confidence in the churlish shep-
herd or dog, from what they do in those of an opposite
temper ; for in the one case they will allow both or
either singly to walk about among them when feeding,
without showing any signs of disturbance, whereas, in
the other, they will flee before either or both in an
affrighted manner, not offering to feed until they are out
of harm's way, as it were.

The imitative powers of sheep are remarkably strong,
so that the training of them, as dogs, horses, and even
Irishmen's pigs are trained, is a much more simple task,
under good humour, than at first sight may be ima-
gined ; for what the ewe will do, the lamb will be for-
ward to do also ; and even when not thus connected,
there is always a proneness and anxiety in the one to
follow the example of the other, even among full-grown
sheep. Many interesting anecdotes are told in illustra-
tion of this. If the shepherd, for instance, throws
down his staff in the gate, so as to make the leading
sheep jump over it, all its followers will jump also ; but
if it merely runs over, so will the others, by the force
of this imitative power in each case.
(To be continued.)

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

293

ADULTERATION OF GUANO

There are few victories to be more dearly bought
than a good bargain; there are no dangers against
which it is more necessary to re-echo so continual a
caution. Down even from the days of Troy, when
Glaucus changed away his golden suit, to the time
when Moses brought home his gross of spectacles,
and the countryman tried his dozen of razors, it
has been still the same. Despite the oft-solicited
interference of "the presiding magistrate," ladies
are found yet to essay on the great sacrifices of
Oxford-street. Wonderful hacks, sold only be-
cause their owners have no further use for them,
are still to be ferreted out of curious corners, by
clever people only too anxious to get " a bargain."
Flash auctions, sham smugglers, and too accom-
modating bankruptcies, all pander most profitably
to this weakness of the English people.

None, as we have often had occasion to tell him,
has more need to beware of a bargain than the
agriculturist, as none, in the exercise of his voca-
tion, may gain one at a greater cost. It would be
difficult to calculate how often, or in how many
different ways, has this been impressed upon him.
In the purchase of certain articles necessary for the
business of the farm, the cheap jnust be the bad.
There can be no doubt at all about it. The more
and more you examine the real bearings of the case,
the more you will become convinced how utterly
impossible it is to honestly undersell the market.
For the benefit, however, of him to whose well-
doing our labours are chiefly directed, we may ven-
ture to tell the following story, founded, as it will
be seen, strictly on facts : —

Situated at the extreme north of the Isle
of Anglesey, is a spot known as the Paris
Mountain. To the miner and geologist this,
it is hardly necessary to add, has long been
an object of interest as well as of profit. Rich
in copper and other minerals, " streams of
yellow ocre," says a local authority ; " flow down
the gullies of the mountain-side to the river port
and sea." Some years since, we are further in-
formed, " these streams were dammed up, or im-
pounded by those through whose property they
flowed, with the view of extracting the pigment
by evaporation or other processes." The expe-
riment was successful enough, for the cream of
this skimming, we learn, " formed a valuable ar-
ticle of commerce ;" while on the other hand " the
residuum was worthless, lying in lumps, an eyesore
and a nuisance." The spirit of sanitary improve-
ment, however, has reached even North Wales,

The lesson now so commonly taught us, that
something may be got out of everything, was put
into very sharp practice even in so remote a dis-
trict, and an example afforded to many more as-
suming a locality. The inhabitants of the market-
town of Amlwch, lying at the foot of the mountain,
and of course the chief sufferers from the nuisance,
had of late been agreeably surprised by noticing
with what care and uninterrupted diligence this
" residuum" was collected and removed. The
curious could only further ascertain that it was
shipped for Liverpool, where it mysteriously dis-
appeared. To what purpose it was to be applied
no one could imagine, although no doubt in some
way or other to further illustrate the now very
popular theory — " There is something to be got
out of everything."

Having at any rate run the drag of this resi-
duum as far as Liverpool, where we came to a long
check, let us now return into AVales. We diverge
from our route a trifle, and find ourselves at length
in the ancient and curious old city of Chester,
Here we meet with one Mr. Pickering, an honest
Cheshire yeoman, who, like another Moses Prim-
rose, is changing his famous Cheshire cheeses for
Peruvian guano, with a certain Mr. Thomas. The
great inducement to this is, as a matter of course,
" a bargain." Mr. Thomas tells his friend, confi-
dentially, that he purchased the guano a bargain
from Messrs. Gibbs and Co. during the winter, that
he had made an excellent speculation of it, and that
he could sell it, comparatively as he had bought it,
cheap. This was enough for Mr. Pickering ; he
buys a ton, and, like poor Moses, directly he has
it home he begins to suspect the wisdom of his
contract. The symptoms are certainly alarming,
and he sends at length for a doctor. This is Mr.
Hewson, the analytical chemist of Liverpool. By
this gentleman's powers of testing the truth, Mr.
Thomas's Peruvian guano is discovered to be only
half what it was represented to be. It is adul-
terated to the extent of fifty per cent., the other
half being sand, gypsum, and ochrey clay ; in a
word, chiefly that " residuum" which in the first
place so annoyed, and afterwards so perplexed, the
good people of Amlwch.

Mr. Thomas, the defendant, as the dealer in this
stuff, was strong enough in his own innocence to
enter the witness-box, and submit to all the com-
plimentary interrogatories of a cross-examination.
His answer on his defence came very straight
to the point. He had not sold this manufacture

394

THE FARMi^m^S MAGAZINE.

as genuine guano — he never warranted it as such ;
he offered it merely as Peruvian guano. Let
our readers in their future dealings remember
to bear in mind so nice a distinction ; and, once
more, let them be cautious over a bargain. The
price of a horse is now received in our courts
more or less as his warranty. It may come to be
the same with the price of guano, and that when
people buy at a lovv' figure, they must understand
that they buy at a risk. The judge, indeed, in this

very case, summed up chiefly on the question of war-
ranty. There v/as little defence as to the character
of the manure ; but what could be expected at the
price ? Mr. Pickering, to be sure, after an immense
deal of trouble and anxiety, got his money back
again, and lost his crop ! With this moral to the
agricultural community, may we leave our history
of how the Cheshire fai'mer followed out the per-
mutatio Glaiici, and swopped away his good cheese
for bad guano.

PROGRESS OF REAPING MACHINES—LINCOLN MEETING.

In reviewing the progress oi' reaping machines since
the Gloucester meeting, or during the past year as illus-
trated at Lincoln, it will be necessary, owing to the
somewhat anomalous character of adjudications since
1850, to take a cursory glance at the subject from the
commencsmeat, in order to do it justice. Our readers
are aware, for instance, that for nearly 30 years Bell's
reaping machine has been at work in one of our northern
provinces, though not generally appreciated by the
farmers of the neighbourhood, and even almost unknown
anywhere else ; that some five or six years ago one of
Hussey's, which liad been in successful operation in
America since 1833, was set to work in the neighbour-
hood of Liverpool without creating any great interest
amcng implement makers and farmers ; that about the
same time J. Tollemache, Esq., M.P., enabled the
Messrs. Garrett and Sons to bring it before the Royal
Society, and that neither judges nor the public then
contemplated bow differently it was to be treated at '* the
world's fair" — Lewes, Gloucester, and Lincoln. No
doubt improvements have been made ; but these are so
trifling to outward appearance, and even, we are afraid, in
reality, as not wholly to account for differences, while
many improvements have not yet met with public re-
ception—such as those of the French reaper and Hark-
ness, but which may nevertheless prove successful rivals
at Carlisle. Then follows the old proverb, that " a
bad hand never gets a good tool," which, we presume,
will be found just as applicable to reaping machines as
it has been to scythes or hooks, while the cutting of
green rye at Lincoln, for some ten or fifteen minutes
only, may be queried as affording any physical evidence
as to which may be the best machine for ripe corn of
any other kind, or even rye itself, for the whole harvest.
These and many other considerations induce us to lay a
brief summary of the whole before our readers.

In doing so, our task has been greatly shortened by
the publications of the Patent Office, where Bennet
Woodcroft, Esq., brings before us at one glance, in a
tabular form, no fewer than 69 examples of drawings of
" the cutters of reaping-machines," illustrative of their
modes of action ; and since that date about 30 new
patents have been taken out, in many of which alter-
ations have been made in the cutting apparatus ; and
besides these, numbers are noticed, of which no drawings

are given. The following table without the drawings
will, with the observations which follow, give a general
conception as to the progress of ideas, and the different
channels in which they have run : —

RECTILINEAR MOTION.

CIRCULAR MOTION.

Advancing only .... 4 CoatinuoHS and ad-

Sideiong and advan- vancing 31

cing 2 Continuous and alter-

Reciprocating and ad- nate

vaucing 25

Cutters worked by hand 5

Such is the state of things at the date in question ;
and our readers will perceive how nearly to be equally
balanced, so to speak, are the above two classes under
rectilinear and circular motion, there being 31 of the
former, and 33 of the latter.

The progress of ideas, however, is still more inter-
esting ; for up to the introduction of the American
machines, although reciprocating and rectilinear n[\otioa
was invented in Bedfordshire by Mr. Salmon, as early
as 1807, the general pursuit appears to have been after
circular ; for we only find other two examples of the
former in this country, viz., Ogle's in 1822, and Bell's
in 1826; and three in America, viz., Manning, 1831:
Hussey, 1833 ; and M'Cormick, 1834 ; while we have
twenty-one of the latter, viz., Pitt, 1786; Boyce, 1799;
from Walker's Philosophy, inventor unknown, one in
1799; Plucknett, 1805; Gladstone, 1806; Plucknett,
1807; Smith, 1811; Ken, 1811; Gumming, 1811
Dobbs, 1814; Smith, 1815 (two examples); Mann
1820; Bailey (United States), 1822; Budding, 1830
Chandler (United States), 1835 ; Springer, 1839
Duncan (United States), 1840 ; Phillips, 1841 ; Gibson,
1846; and Whitworth in 1849 (two examples).

Subsequently the tide of invention has run more
strongly in favour of the reciprocating action of the
knife, there being seventeen examples on this principle,
viz., M'Cormick, 1850 ; Stacey, Dray, Ridley, Randell,
M'Cormick, Poole, Crosskill, Dray, Fowler, Newton,
Wray and Son, Harkes, Hussey, Johnson (two exam-
ples), and Gomperts, all in 1852 ; and eleven on the
circular, viz., Fairless, Winder, Beckford, Gosling,

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

France, Mackay, and Trotter, in 1851 ; and Moson,
Smith, Gompertz (two exataples), and Burch, in 1852.

Of American patents the following are noticed : —
French anrl Hawkins, 180.3; Adams, 1805; Comfort,
1811; Claiborne, 1811 ; Gaillard, 1812; Baker, 1814;
Bailey, 1822; Wadsworth, 1824; Cope and lloopes,
1825; Eyck, 1825; Pleasants, 1827; Lane, 1828;
Ingersoll, 1830; Manning, 1831 ; Heath, 1833; Ander-
son, 1833; Schrebly, 1833; Hussy, 1833; Jackson,
1834; M'Cormick, 1834; Ambler, 1834; Rundell,
1835; Sturdivant and Holmes, 1835; Chandler, 1835;
Badlam, 1835; Ashmore and Peck, 1835; Wilson,
1835; Brigsfs and Carpenter, 1836; Allen, 1836;
Moore and Hascall, 1836 ; Drummond, 1836; Green-
leaf, 1836; Lewis, 1838; Wheeler, 1838; Brittaii^and
Silnens, 1838 ; Trask and Aldrich, 1839 ; Lamb, 1340;
Hinds, 1840; Churchill, 1841; Church, 1841; Cooch,
1841; Read, 1842; Brown and Crans, 1842; Reeder,
1843; Peck, 1844; Esterly, 1844; Ketchum, 1844;
M'Cormick, 1845; V^^est, 1845; Vfoodward, 1845;
Ketchum, 1846; Darling, 1846; Foster, 1846; Owen,
1846; Wilson, 1846; Land, 1846; Cook, 1846 ; Fos-
ter, 1847; Church, Obert, Willoughby and Wil-
loughby, 1847; Danlap, 1847; Ketchum, 1847;
Hussy, 1847; Butts and Church, 1847; M'Cormick,
1847; Pease, 1848; Boone, 1848; Goble and Stuart,
1848; Gushing, 1S48; Barr, 1849; Haines, 1849;
Fountain and Fountain, 1849 ; Hinton, 1849 ; Pen-
viance, 1849; Piatt, 1849 ; Mann and RJann, 1849;
Manny, 1849; Forbush, 1849; Krauser, 1849; Adkins,
1850; Heath, 1850; Knowles and Benington, 1850 ;
Pierson, 1850; Danford, 1850; Bowerman, 1850;
Herndon, 1850; Hunt, 1850; Quincy, 1850; Baily
Coates, 1850 ; Watson, 1850; Neely, 1851 ; Hurlbut,
1851; Watson, Sabine, and Watson, 1851; Allen,
1851; Stardt, 1851; Palmer and Williams, 1851;
Jones, 1851 ; Seymour, 1851 ; Miller, 1851 ; and
Manny, 1851,— Total, 99.

No description is given of a number of the first ma-
chines; so that the difference between first ideas there
and here cannot be known : but Bailey's (1822) and
Ingersoll's (1828) have cutters fixed on the periphery of
a horizontal wheel, the latter 8 feet in diameter, form-
ing a complete circular knife or scythe, similar to
Plucknett's (1805) of this country. Revolving hooks
and scythes appear to have been a common idea, even
after Mr. Manning produced his reciprocating-knife,
which has been so successful. He also proposed fixing
lance-shaped cutters or blades on the periphery of a
horizontal wheel, sharp only on one edge. Two other
ideas are deserving of special notice, viz., to cut and
thrash the grain at the same time, and to cut and bind
it. As yet both are comparatively failures, but the ob-
ject at issue i3 worthy of our transatlantic cousins. Our
Australian colonies have produced a successful example,
both reaping, thrashing, and dressing at the same time.
Many of the inventions, again, are chiefly directed to
the gathering of the corn into sheaves after it has been
cut.

Of the above 69 illustrated examples on Mr. Wood-
croft's table, nine are American, so that we have a grand

to'al of 160 reaping machines produced by both
countries up to 1851 and 1852, or about 200 up to this
date ; and, looking upon them as a whole, they certainly
form an interesting combination of the mechanical
powers to obtain a given result — the harvesting of corn.

The work of reaping embraces three things : the
cutting of the corn, the gathering or disposal of it after
it is cut, and the application of power to perform or
overcome the resistance experienced in both these
operations.

The cutting-apparatus of the whole is prc-tty faith-
fully exemplified by the 69 illustrations already nolioed
in a tabular form, showing the different modes of action
and numbers embracing each ; and even among these
there are many parallel cases, only distinguishable by
some comparatively unimportant alteration in the detnils,
apparently more for the purpose of evading a previous
patent than obtaining a really useful mechanical improve-
ment, while many inventors have evidently been reducing
the same ideas to practice unknown to each other. For
example: Eoyce and Walker, 1799; Piucknett, 1807;
Chandler, U.S.A., 1835; Duncan, U.S.A., 1840;
Beckford and Gosling, 1851, and Mason, 1852, differ so
little from each other that they may be said to belong to
one manufactory ; while ditto may be said of Gompertz
and Burch, 1852, they being only double, or composed
of two horizontal wheels with hooks on their peripheries
moving in opposite directiotis on the same shaft, instead
of single or only one wheel ; Whitworth, Fairless,
France, Mackay, and Springer again may be called
bastard examples of the same mechanical family. Of
circular cutting-knives, similar to what Mr. Harkes
exhibited at Lincoln (No. 7 in the trial report), we have
no fevTcr than six illustrations, viz., Piucknett, 1805;
Gladston, 1806 ; Smith and Kerr, 1811 ; Bailey, U.S.A.,
1822, and Whitworth, 1849, almost identical; while
Dobbs, 1814, and Scott, 1815, present similar knives,
only with serrated edges ; Scott's, 1815, and Gibson's,
1846, present a new feature, the cutting-blade of the
knife projecting beyond the periphery of a similar
horizontal wheel to the last — the former serrated, the
latter smooth ; while we find Manning, 1831, and
other American examples on the same principle,
not illustrated. Mann's, 1820, belongs to the same
class. Another class of ideas appears to have had for
their object the cutting of corn by means of a series of
small smooth cutting edged wheels, advancing hori-
zontally with their peripheries a litte past each other,
so as to cut like scissors ; each pair moving inward, as
feeding rollers do. Of the 31 examples of continuous
and advancing motion, 4 belong to this class, viz.,
Gumming, 1811 ; Phillips, 1841, '43, and '52 ; Winder,
1851 ; and Gompertz, 1852. Smith's, 1852, lanceolates
the periphery of his small wheels. The remaining 3
examples— Pitt, 1786, Budding, 1830, and Trotter,
1851 — present new features each. The first is a drum,
composed of a series of circular saws, which strip off the
corn. It is, in short, circular motion given to the
stripping apparatus of the old Roman machine. The
second is a grass -mower, too well known to require
further notice ; and the third, we fear, displays more

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THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

ingenuity than usefulness, being four pair of revolving
shears, which clip the corn as they advance. Budding's
and Ridley's Australian machines ought properly
speaking to have formed an intermediate class between
the circular and rectilinear motion, as they embrace
both ; but of this more when we come to the manu-
facture of machinery for reaping and thrashing at the
same time, for the fine climate of our southern colonies,
now attracting so much attention.

Among the 25 reciprocating knives, there is also a
great similarity— so much so, that there is little me-
chanically to distinguish many of them from each other.
They may, however, be grouped into four or five sub-
classes : First, Salmon, 1807; Bell, 1826; Stacey,
Ridley, and Harkes, 1852 — five examples where the
knife moves on a pin-like shears. Ogle's 1822 and
McCormack's two examples of 1854 have a straight
reciprocating knife ; one of the latter being serrated,
which in mechanics is merely a rougher edge ; the
smoothest edge appearing more serrated than it, under a
powerful magnifier. It has, however, advantages in
practice, from its remaining longer sharp, or in cutting
order, which justly entitle it to a patent and pre-
ference over a smoother edge, according to the pre-
sent progress of things; but at a great expense of
power in the working. Next we have the American
examples of Manning, 1831, Hussey, 1833, and
McCormick, 1850— the latter a serrated edge — with 15
other examples — two of which have double knives —
Rundell, U.S.A., 1835, and Wray and Son, 1852, and
two with hollow, or skeleton cutters, Randell and
Hussey, 1852, similar to those exhibited at Lincota by
Mr. Dray, and one by Johnson, with curved projec-
tions. The knife of Forbash, U.S.A., 1849, called a
" triangular hollow cutting tooth," appears to have
been the first skeleton one used. The remaining ex-
ample of the 25 is a species of shears, recommended
by Gompertz, 1852, and of considerable ingenuity, but
not much usefulness it is feared.

The two examples of " sidelong and advancing"
motion have knives fixed on an endless chain ; the one
invented by Lillie in 1847, and the other by Exall 1852.
Of the American examples, not illustrated, there are of
this kind, Ketchum 1847, Piatt 1849, and I'ierson
1850.

The four " advancing only" contains the old Roman
knife, which cuts on the same principle as a weed-hook ;
Gladstone's bean-cutter, a skeleton plough, with a ser-
rated wing in place of mould-board, invented in 1826 ;
Esterly, U.S.A., 1844, a straight edge, like a levelling-
box, for cutting corn (?) ; and Blackie 1851, a large
triangular knife, worked like a snow-plough.

The five " cutters worked by hand," are the English
hook, and scythe; Javanese hook or ^' ani ;" Meares'
large shears, on two wheels, invented in 1800 ; and
Taylor's horizontal revolving hook, on a vertical shaft,
driven by an auger handle, 1851.

Such is the cursory review of the " forms and move-
ments of the cutters of reaping implements" proposed.
First, we have the reaping-hook, coeval almost with our
race, by which the com is cut and gathered at the same

operation. Second, the scythe, a very old implement
also, by which the operations of cutting and gathering
are performed separately. Next, the Roman lance-
toothed comb, where the cutting, gathering, and har-
vesting are rudely performed at once. Then com-
mences a series of improvements. Pitt, in 1786, giving
a circular motion to the Roman knife ; Boyce, in 1799,
fixes hooks on the periphery of a horizontal wheel. In
1800 another old implement is brought to bear upon
the harvtst-field by Meares, viz., a pair of large shears,
moved on two wheels, and having a gathering-bow
fixed on the back of each blade. The shears are opened,
wheeled forward into the standing corn, when the
handles, formed like those of a plough, are brought
together, the shears cutting the corn, at the same time
the bows on the back holding it fast. The operator
then draws the machine back on its wheels, opens the
handles, allowing the corn thus to drop in handfuls or
small sheaves, as first ideas may have run, when the
open shears are again pushed forward. In 1805 Pluck-
nett brings out his circular scythe, by placing scythes
on the circumference of a wheel, as Boyce had
done hooks six years previously. In 1807 Salmon
improves Meares' shears by driving a series of them by
means of reciprocating action. Dobbs, in 1814, puts. a
serrated edge on Plucknett's circular scythe, while Scott
in the following year places serrated blades on the hori-
zontal wheel of his predecessors. Ogle, in 1822, invents
his reciprocating knife, the motion being communicated
by a horizontal working beam, moved alternately by
cogs on the two wheels on which the machine is borne.
In 1831 Manning (U.S.A.) places upon Ogle's knife
Scott's projecting blades, having two smooth cutting
edges, producing reciprocating action by means of a
crank, as Salmon had done. In 1834 McCormick
(U.S.A.) moves Ogle's knife in the same manner, and
also serrates its straight edge, as Dobbs had done the
circular of Plucknett. In 1850 he produces Scott's
projecting blades on Ogle's straight reciprocating knife,
now serrated, as Scott himself had done 35 years pre-
viously on the periphery of Boyce's horizontal wheel.
Then follows a long list of minor alterations of pro-
jecting blades on Ogle's reciprocating knife, in order to
improve its cutting edge and motion, with which our
readers generally must be familiar ; and, lastly, Harkes'
improvement on Plucknett's circular scythe appear at
Lincoln.

In reaping, the next operation after cutting is the
gathering of the cut corn into sheaves, binding and
stooking it, unless when it is thrashed immediately from
the cutters ; but this latter practice is as yet the ex-
ception, and must ever continue to be so, at least in the
majority of our provinces, frons our precarious and moist
climate ; we must therefore treat the former as the
general one.

More disappointment has been realized in this depart*
ment of the work than the other ; and perhaps more
ingenuity expended to overcome the difficulties with
which it is surrounded. This arises not only from the
arbitrary character of machinery, and the unequal con-
dition of crops, but from the difficulty experienced in

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

" V^^^^^'i-iiL'

performing the work successfully under the most favour-
able state of things ; for, although crops may be
standing erect, and the day dry and comparatively calm,
so that the machine can be wrought in any direction
without experiencing unequal conditions, yet the very
process of cutting destroys the status quo, as it were,
while all crops stick less or more together ; thus pre-
senting degrees of resistance neither equal nor easily
overcome.

The corn as it is cut is either laid into a swathe, and
afterwards gathered into sheaves by hand ; gathered
directly into sheaves from the cutters ; or left in an in-
termediate position of spread- out sheaves, as in the case
of Hussey'sor M'Cormick's, where a man performs the
work with a rake. Each of these three cases was ex-
emplified at Lincoln : the first by Harkness's, Bell's,
and Crosskill's ; the second by the Automaton ; and the
third by the American machines just noticed.

Progress in this department is no less interesting than
in the other, and deserving of the most careful ex-
amination before we can appreciate the past or con-
template the future. Passing over the rude operation of
the Romans and Gauls improved by Pitt in 1786, where
the process was stripping the ears oflF the straw into a
cart, the next idea was that of the common scythe
adopted by Boyce in 1799. Our readers are doubtless
aware that corn may be laid into a swathe by a scythe
without the cumbersome furniture of bows, rakes, or
cruddles "for bringing it round," as it is technically
called. The experienced, scientific, and successful
mower is familiar with the fact that a proper cutting
edge, with a sufficient velocity in a given direction
according to the wind and lie or inclination
of the crop, will lay it into a swathe better
for gathering into sheaves afterwards, without such
contrivances than with them, and at a great saving
of power. In the one case, the scythe will cut through
the crop so easily as scarcely to be felt in the hand ;
while in the other, rakes and bows drag so heavily as
to require not less than probably double or triple
strength. This waste of power arises from such ap-
pendages coming into contact with the uncut corn, and
the manner the cut corn adheres to them when being
left in the swathe. It were difficult, indeed, to estimate
the increased resistance arising from those two sources
which the beginner experiences, who trusts in anything
and everything, for the performance of good work, but
his own professional skill. The general mistake is, to
aim at laying the corn at right-dngles to, or right across
the direction of the swathe, which is neither more nor
less than impossible in nine cases out of ten ; whereas
the object should be to lay each cut of the scythe sepa-
rate and distinct from the other, and the corn in it in
one direction, whatever that may be — whether at an
angle of 90 or 45 degrees, and with the butt-ends of
each cut equal, because then each cut can be gathered
by the right hand, to the sheaf in the left ; and thus the
whole placed even in the hand for binding. In at-
tempting to lay the corn right across, the upper portion
is sometimes successfully so laid, while the under is lying
almost in the direction of the swathe, and hence right

across the former, so that when gathered the straw is \ .
broken, and the two rolled together in a disorderly state, j
with the ears of the lower half as otten in the butt- end /
of the sheaf as otherwise. In laying corn into a swathe
with a machine, the same results must be obtained, and
objections avoided, which were not accomplished by
Boyce's machine, for the velocity of the points of the
knives or hooks was greater than the base, while they
neither entered nor came out of the standing corn
properly. The successful mower advances alternately a
step at every cut, keeping the right-hand side of the
latter a little in advance of the other ; and these are
what the machine did not do, consequently it became
a failure, but no doubt gave rise to fresh ideas in the
way of progress.

The next link in the chain was made by Mr. Glad-
stone, in 1806, who proposed a horizontal gathering-
wheel, with two projecting rakes on its periphery,
working at a slower motion over the improved cutting-
wheel of his predecessor. Mr. Plucknett's machine gave
some hopes of success, so far as the cutting went ; but
the absence of gathering apparatus brought upon it the
speedy condemnation of farmers. To obviate the ob-
jections thus raised, gathering rakes were placed on the
circumference of a horizontal wheel. These have tails
which act on a segment of wood in the circle they
describe, bringing the cut corn round until it passes this
segment, when the tail, losing its counteracting support,
falls back and allows the gathered corn to fall into
sheaves at the side. As may well be supposed, it was,
like its predecessor, a failure also.

The third idea was suggested by Mr, Salmon in the
following year, 1807, who proposed raking the corn off
a platform by means of a vertically working rake, so to
speak, driven by a large crank in the rear of the machine.
The rake consists of three long bars framed — the lower
cross bar being at some distance from the bottom, so
that the bars below it formed three teeth. It wrought
within another frame fixed, and from its top being above
it, behind the upper fixed bar and in front of the middle
one, over both of which it alternately acted ; and from
the peculiar slide of the crank attached towards the
bottom of the rake, it acquired an automaton motion
analogous to that performed by the rake in the hands of
the gatherer or the American machines — the only dif-
ference being that in this case (Salmon's machine) the
rake operated directly across the platform, sweeping the
earn off from it into sheaves at the side — making one
sheaf at every revolution of the crank. It has several
times been suggested to lengthen the platform of
Hussey's machine, and to place the man in the rear with
his rake, so as to rake off the corn at the side into sheaves,
and thus obviate the objection of the cut corn being in
the way of the horses when not tied up immediately, in
which case the action of the man would be that of
Salmon's machine — it being in some respects superior to
that of the American Automaton, but in others inferior.
There is, however, we presume, the possibility of en-
grafting the vertical action and entry of Salmon's rake
upon the American, and thus greatly improving its
effective operation. Independently of the rudeness of

2D8

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

niecbanism, tlie objections to Salmon's are the slowness
of the motion across the platform and the irregular
mode of dropping the sheaf, both of which should be
instantaneous, as it were, so as to avoid the corn which
is being cut falling upon the rake, and that which first
falls over the outside of the platform being overturned
and dragged along when it comes in contact with the
ground.

In 1811, Messrs. Kerr, Edinburgh, and Smith, of
Deanston, produced anotlier idea — the " conical drum,"
re-introduced to notice by Harkes, at Lincoln; the
former taking the priority as inventor, although both
were claimants. Mr. liarkes's machine very much
resembles Kerr's, not only as to the gathering apparatus
bsiag an inverted frustrum of a cone, with a circular
knife attached to the lower end of it, but also by the
driving-wheels working within it. Bjth machines,
Kerr's and Smith's, were tried in the harvest of tlie
same year ; and although they fell short of meeting
with general approbation, yet nevertheless left a very
favourable impression as to future prospects.

In 1815, Mr. Scott placed rakes wiihin a cylindrical
gathering drum, the teeth of which project beyond its
outer superficies, through holes on the front or side
towards the cut cjrn, but are drawn in on the opposite,
thus allowing the corn to fall oif at the side of the ma-
chine in a swathe. There were also brushes under the
rim of the drum, for sweeping forward the root ends of
the cut corn, and keeping the cover-plate clean.
Altogether, there was much ingenuity elicited in the
working details of this machine, but too complicated to
prove successful; and besides, the whole was so badly
manufactured as not to give the invention a fair trial.

In 1820, Mr. Mann, of Raby, near Wigton, Cumber-
land, produced the model of a reaping-machine, with
six revolving vertical rakes, like the shaker of an old
thrashing-machine placed on one end, and with a second
rake for stripping the corn from the teeth of the first,
when brought round to the side where it was to be left
in a swathe. The model was subsequently extended to
a Vi'orking form, under several modifications and im-
provements ; but was also found too complicated in the
long run, although the most sanguine expectations were
at first entertained of it.

The North of England soon produced a more success-
ful example, for in 1822 Mr. Ogle, of Alnwick, invented
the large reel, or rake, for "lashing" the uncut corn
towards the knife, as now used in Bell's, M'Cormick's,
&c., and the tipping platform and rake as now used by
Mr. Dray. The mechanism was comparatively rude
and somewhat different from that of modern times; but
these are changes which scarcely fall within our notice
beyond the fact that reaping machines require to be of
finer construction, everything being mathematically cor-
rect, than probably was anticipated at that time, or
is even yet generally acquiesced in. The mode of work-
ing the rake was also different ; the man raking off the
corn at the side in sheaves, so as to be out of the way
of the horse next cut. By this plan the corn was also
found to be more easily tied up, than when left behind
in a spread'Out sheaf. A very cursory ghnce at the

different parts of this machine, however rudely put to-
gether, must convince every reader, whose mind is not
biassed by circumstances extraneous of the question at
issue, that "the schoolmaster was in reality now
abroad," making rapid progress, not less in the gather-
ing than cutting apparatus of reaping machines.

In 1S26 Mr. Bell brought out his revolving apron, or
endless web, for gathering, accompanied with Ogle's
reel in front, which has since been used by his brother ;
and in 1831, 1833, and 1834- we nave the American
examples of mowiog; Hussey and M'Cormick illus-
trating different modifications of the gathering appa-
ratus of Ogle ; w^hile at a later date we have improve-
ments on that of Salman from the same quarter in the
automaton, so justly admired for its mechanical inge-
nuity.

In 1851, Watson, Renwick, and Vfatson, of Chi-
cago, Il!inoi5, proposed gathering and binding at one
operation, by means of " endless rake- chains," arms,
and levers for alternately raising and depressing
the teeth ; a moveable platform for changing backwards
and forwards the binding apparatus, so as to cut the
different lengths of corn, and an " automatically"
acting "cord finger" for encircling the sheaf by the
band or "binding cord," with " tying forceps" and other
almost inexplicable " devices" for binding the sheaves
and throwing them from the machine ready for stooking
(! ! !) We should also have noticed that long prior to
this date, or so far back as 1828, Mr. Samuel Lane, of
Hallowell, Maine, patented machinery for cutting,
gathering, and threshing at one operation. " The com-
bination of reaping and threshing," remarks "The
Journal of the Franklin Institute," •' appears rather in-
incongruous i but the inventor has contrived, with great
ingenuity, to apply a large portion of the machine for
reaping to the purpose of threshing, so as to include the
whole ia one patent. He has also a roller and other
appendages, moved by the same power, for the purpose
of shelling corn." Subsequently attempts were made
for producing the same result, but with no better
success.

In South Australia, Mr. Ridley, in 1845, at Adelaide,
was more fortunate than his transatlantic rivals ; he
having, in that year, produced a machine which " reaps,
threshes, and winnows, all at the same time, and this at
the rate of nearly an acre an hour ; the machine re-
quiring to be attended by two men." This machine,
and the claims of our Australian colonies, at present
deserve special notice;* and, as formerly promised, we
hope to be able to do so on a future occasion.

Such is a very cursory review of the gathering
department of reaping machines-, Salmon was
the first to receive the cut corn upon a platform,
from which it was deposited in sheaves at the side, by
means of an automaton-rake. Prior to this, Boyce and
IMeares had each appeared in the field ; but no part of
their propositions have subsequently been adopted.
The gathering apparatus of Gladstone, in 1806, was
scarcely more successful. It, however; involved prin-
ciples which paved the way, no doubt, for the subse-
quent examples of Scott and Mann, as well as his own

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399

improvements ia 1815, and all those who adopted
revolving rakes over circular-cutting knives. Early in
]811, Mr. Kerr substituted his conical drum, vfhose
whole machine is so similar in many respects to Mr.
Harkes's " tub," as it was termed by many farmers at
Lincoln, from its so close resemblance in form to this
domestic utensil, as to be mistaken for it. Ogle's
improvements of 1822 are among the most important of
the whole. Bell's endless web of 1826 adapts itself to
the reciprocating straight cut, as the conical drum the
circular ; aud therefore forms an invaluable acquisition
also. The progress of the schoolmaster and minister is
deserving of special notice, for subsequently we have
little to investigate but trivial improvements on what
they had done. Dividing the whole into classes, we
have thus — 1st, automaton rakes; 2ud, handrakes, with
platforms and reels ; 3rd, revolving rakes ; 4th, conical
drums; 5th, endless webs or aprons; and Gth, endless
rake-chains. The French reaper, shown at Lincoln,
belonged to this last class. Such are the channels in v/hich
mechanical ideas have moved, relative to the gathering
of corn by reaping-machines.

Reaping machines are either drawn behind the horses,
somewhat like a boat on a canal, or pushed before
them, after the manner of a wheelbarrow ; aud the two
plans have given rise to considerable controversy as to
whic!i is the best. Both have their advantages and dis-
advantages ; hence the grounds for differences of opinion,
in the absence of experimental evidence of a more
lengthened and satisfactory character than has yet been
obtained. True it is, that the former has been in con-
stant operation in America since 1833 ; and the latter, in
this country, for a longer period ; but, unfortunately,
experience here was never called upon to pronounce
judgment upon them until last year, at Gloucester,
when she gave her verdict in favour of the " cart before
the horses" — a sentence which has this year been reversed
at Lincoln : hence the position which we are still in.
Under such circumstances, the golden maxim of " Science
and practice" obviously demands that we scrutinize the
merits of both plans, without the expression of opinion-
ativc views on either ; and this is just v/hat v,'e shall
briefly endeavour to do, and, in order the better to ac-
complish it, shall, in the first place, take a cursory
glance at t'ae whole from the commencement, as we have
done with the cutting and gathering apparatus.

The Romans and Gauls, as has already been said,
yoked the machine before the horses. The reaper, in
this case, was a low cart with shafts, between which an
ox was yoked in a reversed position. The cutting ap-
paratus was placed on the top of the " tailboard," and
was lowered or elevated by shortening or lengthening
the backhand which supported the shafts. There being
but one ox, and only two wheels, the machine was much
more easily controlled than the four-wheeled reapers of
modern times, pushed before two horses.

Pitt, the example from "Walker's Philosophy,"
Boyce, and Plucknett followed the Roman plan. The
first Scotch example (Gladstone, 1806) is of the oppo-
site kind, the machine being drawn behind the horses,
and having two handles, like a plough, for regulating

the cutters ; and Plucknett's second example (1807) ap-
pears on the same plan. Salmon's (the same year) was,
according to some, of this mode also, being pushed for-
wards. It might, however, have been drawn from the
fore-corner, as Mr. Scott's subsequently was ; and this
appears to us to be the plan for which the machine was
really constructed, if ever intended for horse-power, as
it obviously was, although the imperfect description
given along with every drawing we have yet seen states
the contrary, thus : " H, handles by which the mac'nine
is wheeled," being all that is said on the subject. Now,
upon the drawing there are two handles, marked H H,
obviously constructed for guiding the machine, on the
principle of a helm steering a boat in a canal — a theory
current at the time. The description is, therefore, at
fault on one point ; and, consequently, we have some
grounds to conclude that the word " wheeled" is a^prO"
vincialism meaning "guided" or "steered;" for it
would be absurd to suppose that a man could wheel
such a machine before him, or that a horse could be
placed between two such handles. Moreover, part of
the machine, at the fore-corner, is removed, to show the
cutting apparatus ; and the appendage for attaching a
horse may have also been removed, and the description
of it omitted, as the descriptive references are, as we
have seen, apparently hurriedly written. But whether
it was drawn by the right-hand fore-corner or not, it
may, with the assistance of the handles for steering,
have been so, giving to it an entirely new feature, which
otherwise it would not have possessed, involving prin-
ciples susceptible of being easily improved upon ; for,
by giving a reverse motion to the crank of the gathering
apparatus, and placing a hook or ring for attaching the
horses to the opposite corner, in returning, we have an
automaton machine capable of cutting in both direc-
tions, or from one side of the field, without interval, to
the other, like the old Roman.

The first Scotch example having failed, the next, in
the north, is Mr. Kerr's (in 1811), pushed before the
horses, analogous to Mr. Harkes's, at Lincoln. Con-
temporaneous with Kerr, we have Smith of Deanston,
on the same principle. In 1815, Mr. Scott took the
opposite plan, as already referred to ; and in the same
year, Pilr. Gladstone brought out his improvements of
his first machine, still adhering to the same mode of
yoking his team. In 1820, Mr. Mann followed on the
same side, introducing a front wheel behind the horses.
Subsequently, he was advised to adopt the Roman plan ;
but the proposition did not meet with bis own approba<-
tion, still less the trial, so that he afterwards returned
to his original design. In 1822, Mr. Ogle yoked the
horses before the machine ; and in 1820, Mr. Bell
placed them behind it. It is rather singular to see the
schoolmaster and clergyman thus opposed to each other,
as it were, on the mode of draught, and their descend-
ants— Dray's and Crosskill's machines — contending in
the field for the prize at Lincoln ! Whether from the
comparative success of Bell's, and the influence of Mr.
Smith, of Deanston, who advocated putting the machine
before the horses, we will not say ; but, in the north,
opinion was generally in favour of this plan at this

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THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

period ; and it appears to have extended as far south as
Lincolnshire, where Gibson's came out on this plan, in
1846. Indeed, throughout the kingdom, it was gene-
rally advocated until the arrival of the Americans, when
the old Scotch plau revived, and, judging from Lincoln,
bids fair to leave its opponent behind, or at least bring
it fairly to the bar of experience.

In America we find a similar state of things, both
plans of yoking the horses having been adopted ; but
there, the tide of invention appears to have been more
in favour of the Scotch mode of draught than the
Roman. It has been so in this country, as our readers
will perceive, but not to the same extent ; and this
arises from our northern neighbours themselves having
thrown aside their own plan, and adopted that of
" putting the cart before the horses," as previously at-
tempted by Eoyce and Plucknett, in this neighbour-
hood.

In each of these two modes of yoking there is a
considerable diversity of contrivance, independently of
that which distinguishes the one from the other, deserv-
ing of a passing notice, from the principles they involve,
many of them suggesting farther improvement. There
is, for instance, a wide difference between the mode in
which Crosskill yoked his horses at Lincoln, and that
pursued by our forefathers in the days of the Romans,
when we were at this season harvesting our corn — either
shipping it directly from the field to Rome, or else for
being put into Roman granaries, for early export next
year. At that time, the object of the British farmer was
to secure the earliest and best samples for export, re-
serving the inferior quality for his own use. Indeed, he
was then more dependent upon his flocks and herds,
with the produce of hunting, than bread-corn ; and
hence, the worse work in the harvest-field, the fatter
mutton and bacon afterwards, so that his rude reaping
machine, and his mode of yoking and working it, har-
monized with his interest. A single ox in the shafts was
all that was necessary ; and he was soon trained to guide
the machine and keep pace with his driver, attending to
the cuttins: apparatus. But, rude as such machines
and' mode of yoking them were, they yet furnish in-
formation ; for a two-wheeled machine is much more
easily driven straight forward in the direction of the
corn to be cut than one on three or four wheels, as any
one may experience v;ho wheels before him a two-
wheeled truck or barrow, and a four-wheeled one ; or
the same is illustrated in backing a (two-wheeled) cart
and a (four-wheeled) waggon : and when we add cutting
and gathering apparatus, which act adversely and irre-
gularly to the advancing motion of the machine, as we
soon shall see involved in some of our modern improve-
ments, the task becomes more difficult, and still more
so when two horses are yoked abreast, each in sliafts, as
was done when first tried, because then their action was
also irregular — hence the next improvement, of a pole
and whippletrees. But even these were found insuffi-
cient to overcome the above difficulties ; so that ma-
chines then ran into the standing corn, and otherwise
were ungovernable, like Harkes's at Lincoln, until a
steering apparatus was attached to the point of the pole,

enabling the driver to counteract the adverse motion or
agency in question.

The first of the machines drawn behind the team had
also two high wheels, with shafts and framing so ele-
vated as to permit the revolving rakes to bring the corn
out below them, thus involving a principle since de-
parted from, and which, if applied to Crosskill's, would
permit of its being drawn behind also, instead of pushed
before, so as to secure the side delivery, thus avoiding
the objection so forcibly and practically brought against
Hussey's by Mr. Hume, of Canada West, in the Mark
Lane Exijress of last week. Should experience ulti-
mately decide in favour of this mode of draught,
Salmon and Scott's machines present another feature
already noticed, of permitting their being easily worked
both ways, but at a sacrifice of power, the cutting appa-
ratus and driving wheels being out of the line of trac-
tion. Mr. Mann, again, added a third wheel imme-
diately behind the horses, to give steadiness to the
machine — an improvement engrafted on several of our
modern ones. Ogle's approached nearer to the French
reaper, with the addition of a reel, than its descendants,
the Americans, the driving machinery being between two
large wheels, with the cutting apparatus and platform
projecting beyond the outside of one of them. The
American proposition of one large driving wheel, within
framing, behind the team, with the second wheel (a
small one) on the opposite side of the platform, is
greatly superior to any of its predecessors, although,
doubtless, subject to farther improvement in carrying it
out.

The objections brought against Salmon and Scott's
machines, and which would also exist against Crosskill's,
were the draught removed to the front, relative to the
driving wheels and machinery being out of the line of
traction, have been obviated by the American automa-
ton, the gathering apparatus being placed behind these
— an improvement which could easily be effected on
them also, but at the sacrifice of cutting both ways ; for
the moment we fix the cutting apparatus at the side (or
driving wheels, &c., which is the same thing), there they
remain fixed, until we adopt some such plan as exhibited
on the French machine, of turning knives, platforms,
reels, and endless webs from one side to the other,
which can easily be done by a horizontal motion, instead
of vertical, as the French knife.

In theory, there cannot be a doubt that the Roman
plan is superior to the Scotch — i. e., that Crosskill's
mode of draught is superior to Dray's, if properly ap-
plied ; for, in the latter case, the horses can never pull
fairly in the line in which they walk, but always a little
upon one side, the line of traction making an angle with
the line of motion. We might easily enter into a mathe-
matical demonstration of this proposition , were it necessary .
We know it was long tenaciously argued by our more
metaphysically gifted neighbours of the North, that
because the driving-wheel and machinery are behind the
team, the resistance was mainly, therefore, in the
line of traction. But the fallacy of such a conclusion
has long since been admitted even by the North itself ;
for, accqrding to Nev(rton's well-known law of motion,

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

301

" action and reaction are equal and contrary.^' And,
moreover, the resistance of the cutting-knife is com-
paratively little to that of the fingers or gathering appa-
ratus acting against the corn at a great disadvantage of
lever power. In practice the facts are observable, the
line of traction always making an angle with the line of
motion, as any one in the trial field at Lincoln may have
perceived ; so that the conclusion is obvious to every
practical man, even though little versed in mechanics.

On the other hand, if Crosskill's whippletrees are
placed at the proper elevation, his wheels of the proper
height, the day comparatively calm, the corn standing
so as to secure an uniform resistance along the reel and
endless web, the lateral action of the web itself fairly
counterbalanced, the machine cutting its exact breadth,
neither a hair-breadth more nor less, and the horses pro-
perly driven, then the lines of motion and traction corre-
spond, and the resistance experienced by the machine is
reduced to the minimum in producing a given effect.
This machine, doubtless, produces a greater effect than
the other, the corn being lashed to the cutting-knife by
a reel — instead of the rake, in the other case, worked by
a man, and delivered at the side by an endless web, and
therefore must experience a greater resistance, and the
horses, consequently, a heavier draught. But this has
nothing to do with the question at issue — the combina-
tion of the above conditions in the harvest field. Now,
conceding to the soundness of our proposition, which is
susceptible of easy proof, we come to the practical ques-
tion — Was it realized at Lincoln ? And the obvious
answer is, Certainly not ; for the horses there were
neither properly driven, nor the machine equally fed :
granting that the other conditions were correct, where
farmers must judge the height of their own teams, &c.
At times, for instance, it would have cut six inches
more, and sometimes even a foot. Consequently the
pole was thus far from the centre of resistance ; so that
the line of traction must have formed an angle with the
line of motion, although not very perceptible to casual
observers. To counterbalance this, the man at the
steerage operated against the horses with a loHg lever-
power, like the driver of an engine with a break on the
wheel: hence the consequences which follow, viz., an
increase of draught not easily estimated when a hercu-
lean rustic is alternately pushing this way and that with
all his might. In the bustle of a trial field such as Lin-
coln, less or more exciting horses, the smallness of the
patches into which it is subdivided by openings, afford-
ing advantages to the other class of machines which are
not to be met with in the harvest field generally, and
the many turnings consequently experienced, Crosskill's,
and those of this class depending so much upon driving
and feeding, must always experience a difficulty in get-
ting fair play on such occasions — at least, until our
labourers and all parties involved are more thoroughly
masters of their work. But, in the meantime, that is no
reason why we should impute to machines the miscon-
duct of their drivers and teams ; or, vice versa, impute
to them the good conduct of those who work them, as
in the case of the man and rake on Dray's, on whose
management so much depends, and who at Lincoln re-

ceived so little for his trouble at the hands of the public :
and Harkes', which was hardly looked at, because an
ignorant man did not drive it right.

So much for the cutting and gathering apparatus of
reaping machines, and the mode of draught. Many im-
provements have been made since Pliny wrote his de-
scription of the Roman, or rather Gallic machine, used
in the extensive plains of Gaul, and no doubt subse-
quently in Britain, from whence Rome received a large
annual import of corn ; and, doubtless, if we could see
as far before us into the realms of futurity, it would be
seen that we are yet a long way from the end of the
chapter. But, be that as it may, many improvements
were made last year in both classes of machines,
although wo cannot say that these are sufficient to
justify the reversal of the judgment of the Royal Agri-
cultural Society of England. The utmost that can
safely be said here is that Carlisle, or the experience and
judgment of the future, is left to say whether Gloucester
or Lincoln is right ; for it cannot be denied that
greater improvements have been made on the prize ma-
chine of the former than on that of the latter, since last
year. It is no doubt possible that the one was better
prepared for a short trial among green rye, while the
other was worse ; but what have exceptions or any con-
ditions of this kind to do with the merits of either ma-
chine for general harvest work 1 We are far from saying
that the recommendations of the society last year, so gene-
rally and justly approved of, have been complied with on
either side, especially by the two rival machines ; for the
principal objections brought against the prize machine
from the commencement still remain in force, while the
improvement or simplification of the other, has been
eff'ected at an increase of expense, instead of a decrease,
as the public obviously had a right to expect, the Ameri-
can machines being cheaper than Bell's. When a
merchant mixes a less expensive article with one
of greater, the buyer naturally expects the compound at
a medium price. In agriculture, farmers can never sepa-
rate the mechanical value of a thing from its pecuniary
— a fact much in favour of the reversal of the judgment
of the society; if not the only basis on which it can be
founded. The French reaper belonging to the one class
of machines, and Mr. Ilaikes' to the other, have done
more perhaps to comply with the recommendations of
last year, than any other ; the former by suggesting the
reversal of the cutting apparatus, and the latter improve-
ments on the old circular-knife and gathering drum of
Kerr, though neither was successful for reasons already
given. Continuous motion has much in its favour, while
draining, grubbing, and clod- crushing machines are fast
obviating the early objections brought against the cir-
cular-knife. As a side delivery, again, the revolving
drum has been found to lay the corn better than the
endless web, or revolving rakes in the harvest field,
where the machines were in constant operation, and
hence had the best opportunity of testing their merits*
The master point is to effect successful combinations at
little expense, for fortunes cannot yet be made out of
imperfect machines.

302

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

PROG R ESS IN RURAL A R C H I T E C T U R E.

The almost intolerable heat experienced during the
last two days of the meeting of the Royal Agricultural
Society at Lincoln and since, very naturally forces upon
the inquiring mind the query, Was there any contrivance
exhibited there to mitigate and avert its consequences ?
Throughout our provinces nearly every habitation of
man and beast consists of only one storey; or where there
are two in the former case, the sleeping gp:irtments,
especially of our labouring population, are in attics, with
little between them and the slates or tiles, with which
their houses are generally covered; while these are, for"
the most part, old, and subject to rapid decomposition ;
consequently the hard-working man is first broiled
during the day in the heat of the sun, and roasted over
night in an atmosphere highly prejudicial to health.
Old timbers, roofs, walls, and ground-floors invariably
imbibe moisture during the winter months cr rainy wea-
ther, giving rise to fungi and the pernicious atmosphere
which always surround them ; while during weather like
the present, miasmatic vapours arise from the bottom,
and not unfrequcntly the more elevated portion of the
domicile is loaded with the effluvia of insects and vermin,
which never fail to be present under such circum-
stances. Such being the facts of the case as regards our
labourers, while those involved in the household accom-
modation of live stock are some degrees worse, the
question, we say, naturally arises at a period like this.
What are we doing to avoid such a calamitous state of
things ? Was any thing done at Lincoln ?

The cool weather before the cattle-show in some
measure accounted for the fine condition of the animals
exhibited in every class. Had it been as warm before
as it has been since, it is far from likely that appear-
ances would have been so favourable. Indeed the pro-
position at issue may be safely accepted as beyond
doubt ; for every breeder of prize stock has experienced
the difficulties of contending with heat and an impure
atmosphere. Sheep hovels, for instance, have been
erected under the shade of trees ; roofs and walls have
been covered with stuffed hurdles, and the interior
cleaned out twice a day, or oftener, if required. But,
when all this has been done, how often has the farmer
met with disappointment from the weather ! How
often has he or his shepherd, on entering in the morning
after a very sultry and close night, found his favourite
sheep dead, or in the jaws of death, or so far gone as to
render the slaughter-house the only safe alternative left ?
This is more especially e:?perienc8d perhaps in the case
of beginners, who are liable to force forward their things
faster than prudence admits of. In keeping out heat,
for example, how often is bad air kept in ! So that the
temperature and ventilation of buildings are topics
second to none, even in the management of prize beasts
themselves ; and the farther we improve our breeds of
cattle, the more important are they likely to become.
At the Lincoln meeting there were two stands spe-

cially connected with our subject, viz., that of Mr.
Thorold, of the Hamlet of Thorpe, near Norwich, Nor-
folk, and that of Mr. Bruce, of 52, Nelson-street, St.
James's-atreet, Liverpool ; while the temporary erections
of the show- yard for the accommodation of exhibitors,
live stock, and implements, furnish one general example
on a large scale, each of which we shall briefly notice
in the order here given.

The first comprises a series of three examples, illus-
trated by models of cattle-feeding boxes and apparatus,
suitable for different kinds of soils and management,
invented by the exhibiter, to v/hom too much praise
cannot be given for the laudable manner in which he
has been exercising his talents for some time past.

The only direction into which we shall turn inquiry
in this important case at present is to obtain ther-
mometrical and other meteorological results. It would
be a most important desideratum to procure the facts of
the case in both these respects, stated in comparison
with those of the older practice. Were the temperature
of such buildings carefully noted down at different
periods of the day and year, for instance, and placed in
a tabular form in juxtaposition with that of the present
class of buildings, and also the natural temperature of
the atmosphere where cattle and sheep are still exposed
to such with the progress they are gaining or losing in
weight in each case — such facts, we say, would b- of
incalculable value. Questions of this kind are of too
much importance to admit of a bare opinion ; for facts,
and facts alone, are absolutely necessary in order to
base any new practice, like that at issue, upon a solid and
sure foundation. The purity of the atmosphere, again,
is a chemical question, involving the application of che-
mical tests, in order to ascertain results, and may give
rise to greater difficulties in carrying out experiments.
But many farmers or their sons are now sufficiently
versed with the routine of the laboratory to be qua-
lified for this also, so as to be able to bring out the
facts of the case in both examples. There is indeed
no longer an excuse for the farmer who is not so
qualified.

If Mr. Thorold or any correspondent could furnish
the information here suggested, they would be con-
ferring upon their country an incalculable amount of
good. There was never a time in the history of British
agriculture which called more loudly for the careful
registry of facts than the present ; and those we have
thus with respectful solicitude brought before our
readers are not the least important in the statistical
catalogue.

The second proposition is the covering of the roofs
of houses with white japan varnish, so as to prevent
them absorbing moisture during winter, thereby making
the interior warmer, and absorbing heat during summer ;
thus making it (the interior) cooler than now expe-
rienced. It is a well-attested fact in physical science —

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

303

one which daily expeiienca at present confirms — that
any thing of a white colour keeps out heat better than
black. White clothes, for instance, are warmer in
winter and cooler in summer than black. Hence the
reason why many wear white coats and hats in summer,
who otherwise w^ould prefer black, which they wear
during nine months of the year. Hence the slates
and tiles covering houses are occasionally painted white,
or merely white-washed. The latter practice is be-
coming common among amateur farmers, who white-
wash the whole of their cattle-houses outside and inside.
There are, however, many objections to the practice —
such as its non-durability in the case of cattle-houses,
and washing off the roof of the labourer's cottage, de-
stroying the rain-water so generally preferred for
washing purposes ; while painting is too expensive for
buildings of every kind in connection with agritulture.
If a white japan varnish can be had as cheap as a black,
this objection would disappear ; for a gallon, which only
costs 5s , ws are informed will cover 200 feet; " one
single coat equalling two coasts of the best black paint."
The other specimens exhibited of blue, red, and green-
coloured compositions of various shades were finer and
more expensive, being 15s. Gd. per gallon, as stated in
the catalogue report of the previous week, and therefore
would be too high-priced for roofs ; but the specimen
of black is fine enough ; and we do not see why a white
colour should not be produced at an equally low rate.
If it can be so, the probability is that the almost suffo-
cating atmosphere of many an attic as well as cow-hovel
might be vei-y much changed to the better, if not effec-
tually cured ; while the durability of the structure would
obviously be greatly increased.

Such a conclusion, however, in the absence of experi-
ment, must of course be qualified. Those of our readers
who are in the habit of attending the meetings of the
Royal Society must be familiar with Mr. Eruce's japan
varnishes, while very many have appreciated their value
ia all those eases where paints are applied ; but until we
put the question to the eshibicer at Lincoln, the idea of
a cheap white japan varnish for the roofs of houses had
not occurred to him, and, consequently, he was not,
amid the bustling inquiries of the show-yard, able to
furnish us with that information which wc otherwise
would have received ; but he promised to turn hia atten-
tion to the subject immediately on his returning home
to Liverpool, and to let us know ; and as soon as we
hear from him we shall lose no time ia laying the results
before the public.

Meantime, believing that Mr. Bruce is a reader of the
Marlt Lane Express, we may observe that the infor-
mation required is of a two-fold character : first, as to
the price and durability of the article, and, second, as
to heat and cold, and a pure atmosphere within doors.
In short, all these questions, already referred to in the
case of Mr. Thorold's moveable feeding-boxes, are in-
volved, and therefore require similar solution, chemically
and mechanically. On all these points the public is entitled
to the necessary information before its cordial support
can be obtained ; for farmers must not only have a cheap
article, but an effective one, before they will become

purchasers. As to the former, we perceive that trans-
parent varnish can be had at 7s. per gallon ; and if any
white pigment, or colouring matter (for we are not in
this case tied down to white lead, or even to many of
the nicer rules of the art of painting) of less value than
the varnish itself, the compound may not much exceed
the price of the black already noticed.

Hitherto experiments have been confi^ied to painting
and white-washing, as formerly stated, and a question
therefore may arise as to whether the objections to
them may not he obviated so as to render them pre-
ferable to the white japan varnish of Liverpool,
supposing such to be forthcoming. A coarser sort of
paint, for instance, may be manufactured, or some in-
gredient added to the v^hite-washing, so as to render the
former cheaper and the latter more durable. From the
progress of things, it appears perfectly possible that any
labourer may yet be able to whiten permanently the roof
of his ovra cottage, after his daily task is over, for a few
shillings, and that from the advantages gained his em-
ployer may see iit to advance this sraail sum. The more
preferable plan, lio?/8ver, v/3uld be for the farmer, or
rather the landlord, to go over the whole buildings upon
his estate at once, as this could be more cheaply done
than small contracts ; but it would be hopeless to expect
any such tliln.r; of them until experience has returned a
more satisfactory award than she has yet done. For
progress in this direction, the Society might, it is pre-
sumed, very laudably encourage competition by a £10 and
£b prise.

The third example for notice is the show-yard of the
Society. What can be learned from it? Much, in
many respects. Live-stock, for instance, were cooler
under the temporary covering of canvas than they would
have been had the sheds been covered by slate or tiles,
and had the roofs been a little higher a still greater dif-
ference would have been experienced. It is the height
of the palm tree which gives it so cooling a shade. The
air beneath them (the sheds) v/as also purer than in brick
and mortar biiiidings. At Constantinople and Varna
our soldiei's are experiencing similar benellts from a
covering of canvas, and throughout Oriental climes the
tents of the wandering Arabs, Tartars, and others have
more to recommend them to favour than at first may be
imagined. They are, no doubt, unfit for the rigorous
weather experienced during winter ia either of those
places ; yet this may arise rather from mechanical defects
in the construction, or expenses, and not from the slender
character of their m.aterials, or even the principal of
their construction, for many Kurdish and Tartar tribes
prefer tents during winters as rigorous as those of the
Danubian Principalities. Double windows and walls
furnish evidence of a similar kind— proving that cold (a
negative quality) may be kept out by very simple means ;
in other words, that heat may be confined within-doors
by a medium of atmosphere, more effectually than by
more solid materials ; and what will keep in heat daring
winter will also keep it out during summer, so that the
same contrivance serves two purposes. With this
dwellers in teats have long been familiar.

These observations obviously point to the advantages

304

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

of hollow and double walls and roofs over solid ones —
provision being made for a free circulation of air in their
interior during summer ; in other words, for the escape
of heated air and ingress of cool. There must not only
be an Imperceptible circulation or change of air kept up
in the interior of the building itself, but also between
the two divisions of the walls and roof; for if the heated
air were allowed to stagnate during summer, from the
laws of heat, it would give out its colorie to the interior ;
and for a similar reason the heat of the interior would
escape outside, were not steps taken to prevent it. It is
also more than probable that the outside division ought
to be thin ; because it would then be capable of absorb-
ing less heat within itself, while any heat which passed
through would be carried off by the intermediate body
of atmosphere, while such a provision would be equally
in favour of keeping in heat during winter. Walls are
now being built of hollow bricks ; but the air within
them is confined, and hence gives off the heat it receives
from the outside laterally to the interior. It would be
otherwise were the openings or hollows to communicate
with the outside at top and bottom ; for then the heated

air would ascend, making its escape at the upper orifice,
while cool air would rush in at the lower one, thus re-
ducing the temperature of the wall. The ceiling in
houses also exhibits the principle of a double roof ; but
the air between it and the slates or tiles is confined, sub-
jecting the interior to consequences similar to what have
just been stated regarding walls, only ten-fold worse
from the greater body of confined air, which absorbs a
quantity of heat during the day, such as to keep the
poor man's cottage in a stove over night. During day
the dark-coloured roof, and confined air between it and
the ceiling, absorb heat from the rays of the sun, which
it gives off during night, increasing the temperature of
the interior often to a higher degree at midnight than
what is experienced at noon day !

We must postpone further details on this important
subject to a future occasion, only pointing at present
to the value of thermometrical observations of the at-
mosphere within different kinds of buildings high and
low, having thick walls, hollow walls, &c., &c., and
under all sorts of circumstances meteorological.

EPIDEMICS, TOWN DRAINAGE, AND MANURING THE LAN!

No. VI.

Sir, — Until we shall have obtained more positive informa-
tioa on the functions of plants, however strong may be our
prepossessions in favour of any particular theory, a renewal of
the discussion of the source from which plants derive their
nourishment could show but very little light on so interesting
a question. Mr. Pusey has, however, prominently brought
under notice the fact that manures are stimulating in propor-
tion to their contents of nitrogen, which may appear rather
paradoxical on reference to the table you politely afforded in
your journal of the 22nd May, wherein it will be seen that
whilst wheat contains only 2.30 per cent., carbon prevails to
the extent of 46.1 ; and while we are not informed by vegetable
physiologists that vegetables evolve free nitrogen, I\Ir. Pusey
has afforded unquestionable evidence of the value of nitric acid
as a manure, which acid contains only 14 of nitrogen to 40
of oxygen.

We are at present cognizant only of the fact that the
vegetable kingdom yields free oxygen, which the dififusionists
have hitherto led us to suppose combines with the nitrogen
set free from the atmosphere by combustion and respiration ;
but whilst (during certainly seven months of the year) no
oxygen is evolved in northern latitudes, it is there that the
great bulk of the nitrogen is liberated at the very time that
the vegetable kingdom is dormant. Let us suppose, on the
contrary, that the atmosphere, instead of being merely a
mechanical mixture, is a chemical compound, originally formed
and now regenerated by the vegetable kingdom, and all
mystery will disappear.

There is constantly generated by combustion, putrefaction,
and respiration, a large amount of carbonic acid, which gas,
being of greater specific gravity than the atmosphere, and
highly soluble, must necessarily reach the earth, and we have
of late had incontestable evidence that ammonia is a con-
stituent of rain ; there is, therefore, presented to the root of
the plant —

Ammonia. .

r hydrogen — fixed by the plants.

joiygeT}'^''-
1 carbon — fixed by the plants.
■^ . J oxygen \ partly fixed and evolved as vapour
[ hydrogen J and oxygen.

And as the amount of oxygen of the fixed carbon and hydrogen
is much gi^ater than is necessary for the regeneration of the
atmosphere by the vegetable kingdom, plants necessarily evolve
much free oxygen, which being of greater specific gravity than
air, falls to the earth, to the decomposition of all dead vegetable
and animal matter. The regeneration of air I have not yet
demonstrated by experiment, nor would my doing so be of any
avail, so long as the laws of the increase of weight in matter
by compression remain in abeyance with the scientific world ;
but it must be self-evident that here, at least, we have a chain
without a wanting link in this stupendous branch of nature's
operations ; and if, in connection with my principles of snow,
treated of in my former papers, I allude to electricity being
evolved by the vegetable kingdom, and to the well-established
fact that more rain falls on forest land than on land free from
wood, it cannot fail in adding to the beauty of the subject.

The Times, in the last of four articles under date of the
23th September, 1853, observes that "no one, however, has
been able to show that there is any such parallelism between
the electric and choleraic records, from day to day, as would
justify the notion of there beiag any essential relation between
them ;" and by the same parity of reasoning, there can be uo
relation between the evaporation of last March and April, and
the rain that has since fallen ; but if we drop the " day to day"
there can be no difficulty in showing, on facts, that cholera is
essentially referable to the relative electrical state of the
atmosphere and the earth. An apparatus which I have had
in operation since 1845 inclusive, affords unquestionable evi-
dence that in 1846, when the potato blight was so severe, the

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

30-5

atmosphere was highly electric, and that from that period to
1848 this condition gradually declined, and the rapidity with
which it did so in 1849 caused me to forewarn Mr. Chadwick
of the coming cholera, at least a fortnight before it visited our
shores. Cholera first made its appearance in India about 1817,
and there, where vegetation is luxuriant in the extreme, and
affords evidence of a negative atmosphere and positive earth, it
ravages villages as well as towns, more especially those in the
neighbourhoodof swamps, where a high chemical action is always
going on, and robbing the air of its electricity ; but in this
country it attacks only towns, where, by the condensation of
the gases generated by combustion, respiration, and more
especially putrefaction, the atmosphere is reduced to a very
negative state, whilst in villages its inQuence is counteracted
by the constant supply from the vegetable kingdom of a vast
amount of electricity. Electricity I have clearly demon-
strated to be identified with " cold," instead of with " heat;" it
is, in fact, the cause of the former, its abstraction producing
the latter; and during a healthy state of the body, our system^
in temperature, is always above that of the external air, and
we generate compounds of a highly offensive nature; but when
attacked with cholera, cold supervenes, and our discharges
become of a watery kind, almost free from smell ; and I need
scarcely remark that under the influence of putrefaction,
oxygen combines with carbon in preference to hydrogen, whilst
with a high electrical state the affinities are reversed.

In 1849 there was no potato blight, whilst this year it has
appeared in a mitigated form ; there is reason, therefore, to
hope that our towns will not suffer so much this year as they
did on the last visitation ; but is it in my power to refer with
certainty to the information afforded by my apparatus, it
having, unfortunately, been removed from London without
being tested by a similar apparatus in the country, notwith-
standing all my endeavours to the contrary ? The following
extract from my register will, however, show the cause of the
amazing fruitfulness of the present season, and that the
electrical state of the atmosphere continuing on the decline,
forebodes no very agreeable prospects for the inhabitants of
towns. How much longer will our deplorable ignorance on a
question of such vital interest, to both the agriculturist and
townsman, be endured by the executive of society ?

EXTRACT FROM JOURNAL.

Non-
Evaporation. Insulated. Insulated.

March 9590 555 —

April , 18550 1265 110

May 8765 320 —

June 10260 335 20

July 11310 315 80

August, to the 22nd .... 6975 120 15

For an explanation of the above figures, see my letter in the
" Farmer's Magazine" for September, see page 212.

Franklin Coxworthy,
Author of " Electrical Condition."
Maresfield, Sussex, 23»d August, 1854,

HOW TO KNOW THE AGE OF A HOKSE.— The
colt is born with twelve grinders. When four front teeth have
made their appearance, the colt is twelve days old ; and when
the next four come forth, it is four weeks old. When the cor-
ner teeth appear, the colt is eight months, and when the latter
have attained to the height Of the front teeth, it is one year

old. The two year old colt has the kernel (the dark substance
in the middle of the tooth's crown) ground out of all the front
teeth. In the third year the middle front teeth are being
shifted ; and when three years old these arc substituted by the
horse teeth. The next four teeth are shifted in the
fourth year, and the corner teeth in the fifth. At six
years the kernel is worn out of the lower middle front teeth,
and the bridle teeth have now attained to their full growth. At
seven years a hook has been formed on the corner teeth of the
upper jaw ; the kernel of the teeth next to the middle fronts is
worn out, and the bridle teeth begin to wear off. At eight
years of age, the kernel is worn out of all the lower front
teeth, and begins to decrease in the middle upper fronts. In
the ninth year, the kernel has wholly disappeared from the
upper middle front teeth, the hook on the corner teeth has
increased in size, and the bridle teeth lose their points. In the
tenth year the kernel is v/orn out of the teeth next to the
middle fronts of the upper jaw ; and in the eleventh year the
kernel has entirely vanished from the corner teeth of the same
jaw. At twelve years old, the crown of all the front teeth in
the lower jaw has become triangular, and the bridle teeth are
much worn down. As the horse advances in age the gums
shrink away from the teeth, which, consequently, receive a long,
narrow appearance, and their kernels have become metamor-
phosed into a darkish point, gray hairs increase in the forehead,
over the eyes, and the chin assumes the form of an angle,—
Practical Farmer.

SINGULAR CASE OF INSTINCT IN A HORSE.—
We do not remember ever to have heard of a more remarkable
exhibition of equinine intelligence than was communicated to
us a few days since by Mr. Allen, of this place. The circum-
stances as they were narrated to us are as follows : — Mr. A.
had for a considerable time a span of sprightly little horses,
that he had never separated. In the stable, in the field, and
the harness, they have always been together. This has caused
a strong attachment to grow up between them. A few days
ago he went out with them to Lake Minnetooka, on a fishing
excursion. Taking them out of the carriage, he led them to
the lake and tied them several rods apart on a strip of grass
that grew upon the shore, and left them to feed. Returning
to the shantee, he threw himself upon the]^floor, to await the
return of the party who had repaired to the lake to fish. Not
much time had elapsed before the sound of approaching horse's
feet attracted his attention, and a moment after one of his
horses appeared at the door. The animal put his head in, and
giving one neigh, returned at a slow gallop, yet under evident
excitement, to the spot where but a few moments before, he
and his companion had been seemingly safely fastened. Sur-
prised to find his horse loose, and struck with his singular
conduct, Mr. A. immediately followed, and found the other
lying in the water, entangled in the rope, and strugghng to
keep his head from being submerged. While Mr. A. pro-
ceeded to disengage the unfortunate horse, his noble benefactor
stood by, manifesting the utmost solicitude and sympathy, and
when his mate was extricated from his situation, and again
upon his feet upon terra firma, the generous creature ex.
hibited the most unquestionable signs of satisfaction and joy.
That this intelligent animal should have noticed the unfortu-
nate situation of his mate — that he should know where to
apply for rescue, and in his efforts should sunder a three,
fourths of an inch rope, and finally that he should exhibit so
high an appreciation of the event, are curious circumstances to
us, and commend themselves to the thoughtful consideration
of those who would limit the power of reasoning to the " genus
homo."— S(. Anthony's Ex,

^00

THE FARMER'S l;!AGA2INE..

T I-I E ORIGIN

Tiis reputation of Va& Journal of the Royal Agri-
cultural Society is well sustained by the number
recently published. It contains several articles to
v/liich we wish to direct attention. The first is a
very interesting paper, translated from the French
of M. Esprit Fabre, on the species of JEgilops of
the south of France, and on their transformation
into cultivated wheat.

To M. Fabre is due the merit of having settled
the question of the origin of wheat. It had pre-
viously been surmised that this grain was a culti-
vated form of some species of JEgilops ; and the
experiments and observations of M, Fabre, conti-
nued through twelve years, leave no doubt upon
this point.

The species of yEgilops are common, not only in
Babylon and Persia, where it has been said, both
in ancient and modern times, that wheat grows
v/ild, but in Sicily, another of its traditional birth-
places, and in all the countries bordering the
Mediterranean basin. It inhabits flat, hot, and
dry plains. Three species are met with in the
south of Europe — JEgilops triuncialis, JE. ovata,
and JE. triaristata. Some botanists enumerate a
fourth — JEgilops triticoides ; but the observations
of M. Fabre have proved this to be only a variety,
produced indifferently from yE. ovata and ^.
triaristata. On this point there can be no mis-
take ; for the ears of jEgilops are coriaceous, and
remain entire for more than one year ; the grains
do not fall out of their envelopes, but, when ar-
rived at maturity, the ears break ofi, and fall on
the ground, vi'here they speedily germinate. A
number of young plants thus spring up from the
unseparated spikelets. Some of these are identical
in habit with the jiarent plant ; some are of the
form oi JEgilops triticoides. There is a difference,
however, in the form of ^gilops triticoides
derived from jE. ovata, and that derived from
JE. triaristata. The former are glaucous and
many-fiowered in their spikelets, have more
flov/ers, and ave packed closer to each other ; the
latter are yellow, sometimes blackish brov.'n,
are alternate-flowered, and formed of spike-
lets tolerably distant from one another, and so
arranged that the alternation is very distinct. To
the two species of JEgilops which are transformed
into JE. triticoides M. Fabre traces the two series
of distinct varieties, each consisting of one of the
known groups or races of cultivated v/heat.

His experiments were confined to the cultivation
of ^gilops triticoides, obtained from JE, ovata.

O F W H E A T .

Vvhen he made them, he v/as unacquainted with
JiJ. triaristata, and its triticoid form. They com-
menced in 1838 ; and the result was that, by con-
tinued resowing, a gradual approach took place in
the produce to the characters of true wheat. The
floral envelopes gradually lost their width, and
some of their awns; the stems, leaves, and ears be-
came more and more developed ; and the ears lost
their deciduous character. In 1845, the transfor-
mation was complete. Hitherto, the experimental
cultivation was made in an enclosure surrounded
by high walls, in which there was no other gra-
mineous plant, and far from any place where
cereals were cultivated. Considering that he had
now brought yEgilops triticoides to its greatest
perfection, and obtained a true triticum or wheat,
M. Fabre resolved to carry on the cultivation in the
open fields, taking the precaution, in order to pre-
vent hybridization from the contact of the pollen of
the cultivated varieties, to sow the wheat which he
had thus obtained in ground surrounded only by
vineyards, and remote from any in which corn was
cultivated. This was continued for four years suc-
cessively, and at each harvest produce was obtained
similar to common v/heat, the yield being from six
to eight times the quantity sown, and varying with
the season. During all this time, not a single plant
was seen to reassume its primitive form of JEgilops
ovata.

These changes are illustrated by a series of
figures of the /Egilops in its wild state, and in the
several stages of transformation into bearded and
beardles's wheat, during successive years of culti-
vation. They are analogous to the changes in-
duced by cultivation in the Brassica oleracea or
wild cabbage, a bitter sea-side plant, than which
nothing can be more unlike the numerous varieties
of our garden cabbages, broccoli, and cauliflower,
all of which have been derived from it. The paper
on " finger-and-toe" in root crops, by Professor
Buckman, is on a kindred subject; but its con-
clusions are not quite so satisfactory as those ob-
tained by M. Fabre. The writer restricts the term
to a branching or growing of the root in a digitate
form, excluding the excrescences caused by the
bulging of the root around the larvcs of insects, the
cracking and splitting of the root, and the rotting
of its parts, all of which pass in common parlance
as " finger-and-toe." Restricting the term to this
forked condition of carrots, parsnips, and turnips,
as distinguished from the smooth outline, and un-
branched fusiform condition of well-developed

THE FAEMEE^a MAGAZINE.

307

roots, ProfeiiSor Buckman concludes, that, Istly,
" finger-and-toe" is not a disease, but the reversion,
to a greater or less extent, of the cultivated plants
to a u'ild state ; 2ndly, that it will always be found
more or less in every field of the above roots ;
3rdly, that it will always prevail where the crop is
derived from seed brought from a rich to a poor
soil ; 4thly, that it is likely to result where seed has
been grown in the district in which it is sown for
the crop ; 5thly, that this degeneracy must always
result where a whole patch or field is indiscrimi-
nately saved for seed ; 6thly, that it is usually
a result in districts where the original species
is a wild native. The foundation on which
these general conclusions rest, is, that a clean or
unbranched tap-root is not a natural condition of
the parsnip or carrot ; that Professor Buckman
carried on for three crops the cultivation of experi-
mental plots, sown with the seeds of the wild car-
rot {Daucus carota) and the wild parsnip {Pasti-
iiaca sativa), which grov/ spontaneously in the
neighbourhood— that the second crop of parsnips
presented some approach in the stems, leaves, and
roots to the cultivated plants ; while in the third
crop there was no advance in any stage upon the

second ; but, on the contrary, a disposition to re-
trograde. In the carrots cultivated in the same
manner, the change effected was not nearly so
great as in the parsnips. The failure in both cases,
he thinks, arose from the plants being placed,
under circumstances of soil and situation, too simi-
lar to those of their wild state ; and he is going to
repeat the experiments in places where all the cir-
cumstances will be as different as possible from
those under which the seed was gr»wn. Having
thus satisfied himself by his experiments that the
forked condition of our root-crops is a kind of half-
way house between wildness and cultivation. Pro-
fessor Buckman set himself to work to inquire into
the circumstances of this mischief, as it affects cul-
tivated crops. From general observation and in-
quiry, he arrived at the other conclusions which we
have enumerated above, and felt his theory to be
confirmed. These views may be correct, but
further jiroof is desirable. We must suspend our
judgment till the result of the experiments which
are to be made shall be before us. At present the
modesty of the facts, as was once observed respect-
ing some hasty generalizations in geology, accords
but ill with the boldness of the conclusions.

OVER-FATTENING OF CATTLE.

Sin, — I always read with a great interest the judicious
remarks you never fail offering to your readers, on the
different agricultural meetings which, at this season
especially, are taking place in various parts of the land.
Having attended several myself, with the peculiar
interest of one whose business it is to select the best
specimens of animals in the breeds of neat cattle, I have
on all occasions earnestly looked for your observations,
as published in your valuable journal, in corroboration
of my own, and have always felt gratified when I found
them to coincide and agree.

I was particularly struck with your remarks on the
Ripon Meeting, especially as I saw other papers up-
holding similar ideas to your own respecting the high
condition in which cattle were exhibited.

I am afraid, hovrever, lest you, Mr. Editor, and those
who have followed in your wake, have expressed opinions
which a little consideration might perhaps have modi-
lied ; allow me then to lay before your readers a few
short remarks on the subject, in order that the question
may be fairly discussed, and, if possible, settled ; and
that hereafter no unjust remarks be made likely to
attach a blame or a censure on those who, far from de-
serving them, are entitled to praise and commendation
for their clever and judicious management.

I apprehend that when a premium is oftered to the
best animal of a class, it is the business of the judges
who have to award it, to select that animal which
possesses the greatest amount of those qualities which

constitute perfection. Now no one can deny that one
of the most important points of merit in a breed of
cattle is a ready propensity to fatten— a striking aptitude
to assimilate to their system all the nitrogen contained
in their food. Why then hold up as a reproach that
point of merit which is next to none in breeding cattle-
one which it must be the aim of every breeder to attain ?
For, after all, what is most thought of in our days is un-
doubtedly the production of food; and therefore that
animal which, in addition to form and touch, exhibits a
great development of fleshy parts, however fat they may
be, provided always the surface be evenly laid, without
patches or wrinkles, is, in my opinion, the most com-
mendable ; and, with due deference to the opinion of
others, I must contend that it is to that animal that the
prize is due. Nay, I think that besides the merit of
aptitude to fatten, two other points of equal importance
should be admitted into the scale, to determine that
pre-eminence to which the prize is given ; I mean
milking and breeding qualities.

It is obvious that the very object of shows, where
premiums are offered, is to promote perfection — that is,
the reunion of all those qualities which we look for in
an animal, viz., symmetry, early development, quality
of flesh, aptitude to fatten, good yield of milk, and
regular breeding. Some will object, no doubt, that
some of these qualities are incompatible ; that the one
will exclude the other ; that over-fattening will promote
barrenness, and stop the yield of milk altogether. I

308

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

readily grant that this is often the case ; but I am ready
to prove that it is not always so j and besides even
granting that this is an evil diificult to overcome, from
the moment it is proved that it is not insuperable, is it
not a paramount duty, in agricultural societies, to pro-
mote the solution of the problem of fattening without
interfering with breeding, and bestow honours and
rewards on those who, by their judicious management,
have been able to attain that standard of perfection ?

Some object also that judges cannot form a correct
opinion of animals when their lines of symmetry are
overlaid with fat, and that many defects are hidden by
the effects of high feeding. Nothing can be more
specious than this objection. Any one, with the least
amount of experience, well knows that defects are, on
the contrary, made more apparent when magnified by
embonpoint ; and a close inspection at any Smithfield
Show will convince the most unwilling, that symmetry
and form are but enhanced with those animals which
are naturally well made and proportioned, by luxuriance
of flesh and well-filled hides.

As you have singled out the Towneley herd as one in
which that tendency to over-fatten is strikingly ex-
hibited, I took advantage of my presence at the Lan-

cashire Show, held at Burnley on the 24th ult., to view
that famous herd ; and there I was gratified to see
animals with a luxuriant embonpoint it is true, but
displaying all the symptoms of health and strong con-
stitution; and in looking over the " Herd-Book" kept
at the Hall, found that, with scarcely a single exception,
all the cows and heifers, however fat they might be, were
regular breeders.

From this fact I conclude that since with good
management it is possible to keep animals in a high
condition without interfering in the least with their
breeding qualities ; and considering that a fat animal is
a much more pleasant object to look at than a lean one,
and moreover, that embonpoint, however skilfully
managed, will never make symmetry or disguise imper-
fections, and that aptitude to fatten is an important
object of commendation in cattle — I conclude, I say,
that it is not only wrong to censure those who have
solved the problem, but that it is incumbent on agri-
cultural societies to reward their judicious efforts and
honour their success.

F. R. BE LA TrEHONNAIS.

Falmouth, August 30th, 1854.

THE HAGNABY SALE OF SHORTHORNS

The sale of this valuable stock, the property of John Kitk-
ham, Esq., took place at Hagnaby, on Thursday, the 24th
Aug., under the auspices of Mr. Strafford, of London, the able
editor of " Coates's Herd Book."

The interest excited in agricultural circles by the announce-
ment of this sale, was very considerable, Mr. Kirkham being
well known throughout the kingdom as one of the most spirited
breeders of shorthorns in this part of the country. The herd
consisted of upwards of 80 bulls, cows, and heifers, descended
from some of the best stock in the country ; and early
in the day the yards and fields were crowded by a numerous
company, many of them from a great distance, inspecting and
handling and criticising the merits of the various animals.
There had been no attempt to get the stock up for sale, yet
they were in useful condition, and the prices realized by seve-
ral showed that their merits were duly appreciated ; one beau-
tiful heifer, fifteen months old, after a spirited competition
with Mr. Mason Hopper, of Newham Grange, being knocked
down to Lord Feversham for 160 guineas, whilst a bull, about
a month older, fetched 100 guineas. These two, unfortunately,
leave the county ; but a fair portion of the stock remains
amongst us, including a nine months' old bull bought by Mr.
Wingate, of Hareby, for 72 guineas, a prize with which he ap-
peared highly gratified ; others selling as high as 70, 65, 62,
61, 57, and 50 guineas each. The average price realized for
the bulls, cows, heifers, and calves, was upwards of £35. The
aggregate of the sale was £2,945 53.

The company present exceeded in point of position and
numbers any similar purely agricultural assemblage of receirt
date.

At half-past twelve o'clock the company sat down to a
splendid luncheon, provided by Mr. Jackson, of the Peacock
Inn, Boston. The large marquee, belonging to Mr. Pratt, of
Lincoln, capable of holding upwards of 500 persons, had been

erected and decorated for the occasion ; but, there being a
very high wind in the morning, it was unfortunately blown
down, and luncheon was therefore partaken in the open air.
The weather, however, though boisterous, was very fine, and
no serious inconvenience resulted from the accident.

After luncheon, at which the Mayor of Boston ably pre-
sided, the Chairman gave the usual loyal toasts, and next
proposed the health of Mr. Kirkham in very flattering terms,
extolling him as a friend, a neighbour, and a master, and
expressing his regret at that gentleman's being about to retire
from breeding shorthorns, feeling confident that a blank would
thus be left which it would be impossible to fill up. The toast
was warmly responded to.

Mr. Kirkham briefly returned thanks for the support he
had received, and for the honour done him by the manner in
which his name had been received, and for the numerous
attendance at the sale. He had exerted himself to the utmost
to introduce into the districts the finest breeds of cattle, and
they had liberally supported him. He now thanked them for
the last time. Mr. Strafford would shortly introduce the
stock to them. They knew what it was, and they knew its
character. He would merely add that nothing would be
bought in, but each animal would be sold to the best bidder.
If there was a flaw in any of the pedigrees it would be for
Mr. Strafford to tell them of it, and he would no doubt do so.

Several other toasts followed, and were briefly responded
to ; Mr. Torr regretting that Lincolnshire should that day be
robbed of one of its best herds, and advocating a friendly
rivalry in keeping up the breeding of the stock in the county ;
and the Rev. Mr. Coltman expressing his sincere sorrow, on
behalf of his brother, that he was about to lose a tenant so
highly esteemed and respected as Mr. Kirkham.

The company then adjourned to the sale-ground, when Mr.
Strafford briefly prefaced the proceedings by announcing the

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

309

conditions of sale, and explaining that, allhough after the
purchase the animals would be at the buyer's own risk, yet
every care would be taken of them, and all reasonable accom-
modation offered. He felt highly honoured in the compliment
that had been paid him in requesting him to offer for sale the
splendid stock that would be brought before them, and with
an inspection of which they must all have been highly gratified.
He had had the pleasure of knowing Mr. Kirkham for
upwards of twenty years, during which time his name had
been familiar to all as a breeder of first-rate stock ; any
eulogium from him, therefore, was unnecessary, his name
being as well known as his judgment was respected. Mr. S.
concluded by reverting to the superior breed of some of the
animals, which were then put up, and disposed of in the order
of catalogue :

Amount of sale of cows and heifers and calves. . £2,284 16 0
Average price £32 12 0

Amount of sale of bulls and calves 660 9 0

Average price £44 0 0

Total amount of sale , .
-Abridged from the Lincoln Times,

£2,945 5 0

SALE OF THE DODFORD FLOCK.— This celebrated
flock of new Leicesters was brought to the hammer on Thurs-
day, Sept. 7, Mr. Pott, of Nottingham, being the auctioneer.
The day was exceedingly fine — an agreeable contrast to the
dripping day of the last sale— and a numerous and influential
company assembled ; there being, probably, not fewer than
from 400 to 500 gentlemen present. The sale was well sup-
ported by gentlemen of the neighbourhood, but the company
included breeders of note from very wide distances. We
understand that, with this sale, Mr. Hewitt terminates his
career as a sheep breeder.

Total amount of sale : —

Ewes and theaves £555 3 9

Tups 886 14 6

£1,441 18 3

The average of the ewea and theaves was £4 17s. each; and
the tups, £14 15s. each. It is seldom that a second year's
sale succeeds ; but this year's sale has beaten last year's — the
ewes and theaves last year averaging only £4 8s. 5d. each,
and the tups £14 13s. 2d. The two sales, taken on the whole,
are believed to be the best on record of late years, and to have
exceeded that of the late Mr. Burgess, of Holme Pierrepont,
who, at his death, was considered the head of all Leicester
breeders. The total of Mr. Hewitt's two sales is £3,720 7s.
3d. : a pretty round sum for a few sheep, or only one part of
the stock of a farm.

SALE OF SUPERIOH STOCK.— On Tuesday, Sept. 5, an
important sale of young bulls and some pigs of superior breed,
the property of S. E. Bolden, Esq., took place at Springfield
Hall, near this town, by the celebrated auctioneer, Mr.
Strafford, of London. The bulls, it must be observed, were
all by the far-famed bull " Grand Duke" (which animal was sold
by Mr. Bolden in 1853 for 1,000 guineas), and were all from
cows of first-rate character and breeding. The celebrity which
this breed has obtained throughout the country drew

together a large assemblage of the most noted breeders
of stock from various parts, and amongst whom we
noticed the Hon. Noel Hill ; Mr. Sainabury ; Mr. We-
therell; Mr. R. Booth; Mr. Sandy; the agents of Lord
Hill; Lord Balcarres ; Lord Burlington; Mr. C. Towneley,
and Mr. Foljambe, several of whose stock took some of the
first prizes at the Royal Agricultural Show at Lincoln ;
and amongst our local celebrities were Mr. C. Whalley, Mr.
Ellison, Mr. John Pritt, and Mr. Carr. The bidding iu most
instances was very spirited, and the various lots were knocked
off as follows : — " Cavendish," roan, calved Sept. 1, 1852, Lord
Hill, 50 guineas. " Veteran," red, calved Nov. 1, 1853, Rev.
J. D. Jefferson, 40 guineas. " Constautine," red and white,
calved Nov. 12, 1853, T. Lamb, Esq., 36 guineas. " Iron
Duke," red, calved January 21, 1854, Mr. Foljambe, 40 guineas,
" Second Duke of Bolton," red roan, calved March 11, 1854,
was the subject of a very spirited competition, and was even-
tually purchased by Messrs. Sanday and Smith for 90
guineas. " Second Duke of Cambridge," red, calved
April 14, 1854, also caused a very severe competition, and
was knocked down at 100 guineas to Mr. R. Bell. "Duke
of Wellington," roan, calved June 1, 1854, Mr. Carr, 40
guineas. The average being within a few shillings of £60
each. In the sale of Pigs the sows averaged a little more
than £10 each, and the young ones a little above £4 each ;
the principal purchasers being. Miss Dalton, Thurnham
Hall; Mr. Pollock, Mountainstown, Ireland; Mr. Tanque-
ray, Hendon, Middlesex ; Lord Hill, Lord Balcarres, R.
T. Brockholes, Esq., and C. Towneley, Esq. It was
with gratifying feelings that wa noticed the encomiums
bestowed upon Mr. Bolden's cattle generally, and which
includes a young bull out of a sister to the " Grand
Duke," which Mr. B. is retaining for his own stock, and also
two heifers of the " Duchess" breed, and which were especially
admired by the gentlemen assembled. We were informed that
these young bulls averaged higher prices than any other lot of
bulls sold this year. Immediately after Mr. Bolden's sale, Mr.
Strafford submitted for competition some choice pure bred
short-horned cows and heifers, the property of William Carr,
Esq., of Stackhouse, near Settle, which ranged at from 30 to
42 guineas each, the average being a few shillings more than
£36 each. A heifer calf by " Horrox" brought 8^- guineas. A
shearling ram of Earl Ducie's breed brought £5 10s. A two-
shear pure bred Leicester tup, £3 5s. Southdown ewes of
Earl Ducie's breed, £2 each ; and the ram lambs averaged
nearly 28s. each. Mr. John Pritt was the principal purchaser
of the sheep.

SALE OF SHORTHORN CATTLE AND SOUTH-
DOWN SHEEP.— These sales, by Mr. Strafford (the former
the property of W. F. D. Dickinson, Esq., of this town and
Swarthmore-hall, the latter belonging to the Earl of Burling-
ton), took place in the show-ground of the North Lonsdale
Agricultural Society. As might have been expected from the
high reputation acquired by Mr. Dickinson's herd, from his
having introduced into Furness some of the finest stock in the
kingdom, and from the fact of his having been repeatedly and
signally successful at the Royal North Lancashire and other
agricultural exhibitions, numerous and spirited purchasers were
nduced to attend. The thirty-two collectively were sold for
about 700 guineas. The sheep, too (coming from the Holker
estate, together with the name of Strafford, afforded a sufiicient
guarantee that " something worth buying" was to be offered
for competition) realised high prices— though by no means too
high considering the celebrity of the noble earl's flock.

810

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

FOOT-ROT IN SHEEP.

A most instructive and interesting discussion on this
subject took place on Tuesday, at Mr. Watkins's ram
s^.!e, at Woodfield Ombersley, in the county of Wor-
cester.

I\!r. Watkins said : I endeavoured at my last sheep
sale to give some opinions I had formed on the subject
of foot disease in sheep, as distinguished from the old
and well-known disease called foot-rot ; and I then
stated, and still believe, it was very little known in Eng-
land till the increased imports of sheep and cattle from
the Continent after the reduced tariffs of 1842. I am still
anxious to call attention to this particular point, in order
that a remedy might be found, for I am thoroughly con-
vinced that the sheep stock of this country has been greatly
deteriorated since the time that disease appeared ; and not
only has the flockmaster been a considerable loser, but
t:i3 public generally have been sufferers on more points
thnn one. It is unreasonable to suppose that when a
flockmaster finds this disease in his fatting stock, he puts
the in on one side till a cure is effected. The butcher
cares not for a defect so little perceptible to his custo-
mers, and by which he loses nothing, or probably gains
by the infusion of blood in the inflamed limb ; even in
bad cases, he is enabled to procure a fair price for an
unsightly joint, from the manufacturers of soups, sau-
sages, &c. And at any rate it is offensive to suppose we
are consuming under any form the meat of an animal
slaughtered in a state of inflammatory disease. The foot
disease is known to exist in all the richest farming and
grazing districts in the country, but the mountain sheep
of Wales and Scotland appear lo be exempt, and as
foreign sheep have not been introduced into those parts,
this adds to the probability that it is an imported disease.
And I am led to this conclusion from constantly seeing
foreign sheep in the districts round LoncJon, that have
been purchased in Smithfield Market, in a deplorably dis-
eased state. I have often talked to men I have seen dressing
them, and I have invariably heard the same remarks from
them — that the sheep stock of the country will never be
healthy again, as long as diseased sheep are imported and
allov/ed to be driven to our markets ; for as soon as one
lot is cured or slaughtered, fresh ones are purchased,
which infect the whole district again. Surely it must
be desirable, if not for the health of the public, yet for
the sake of economy, that some extraordinary means
should be adopted to remedy so great an evil; for it is
useless to suggest measures for its cure so long as the
disease is allowed to be imported, and it is most desir-
able that inspectors of stock should be appointed, under
very stringent regulations, at every port, to watch the
disembarkation of stock, with power to order all ships
containing diseased sheep or cattle from our shores.

Mr. G. Whittaker said that, to get anything done by
the Legislature, those who complained of the importation
of infected animals must make out a good case. They
did not doubt that the disease was imported ; but how

were they to prove it ? No foreign sheep had ever
reached the Ombersley district ; still the disease had
come here to some considerable extent. But they must
remember that, during the last eight or ten years, there
had been blights and various diseases, such as had
never been heard of before.

Mr. Watetns said he was now residing principally
within twenty miles of London, and was riding continu-
ally about, in various directions. He had never yet seen
a flock of imported sheep but what had been more or less
diseased. The merinos, which had been largely im-
ported, were the most subject to the disease ; and he bad
seen them huddled together like pigs, and unwilling to
stir until they were threshed up with the sheep hook.

Mr. CuRTLER intimated that the Royal Agricultural
Society had already taken up the subject, and that, in
his opinion, if the council of the society thought they
could move the Government to do anything beneficial, they
would do so ; therefore it struck him that the interference
of the local societies would not be attended with much
good. He agreed with Mr. Whittaker that the strongest
proof would be required before the Government would
do anything by which the importation of foreign stock
would be prohibited, or put under such restrictions as
would amount to a prohibition. Mr. Watkins had
shown that the sheep on the mountains of Wales and Scot-
land had been found to be free from this disease. Last
year he (Mr. Curtler) saw thousands and thousands of
such sheep on Salisbury Plain, and asked the shepherds
there questions upon the subject of this disease, and he
did not meet with a single shepherd who had it in his
flock. It struck him that it was questionable whether
the disease was imported. Where pastures were much
elevated, and the herbage short, fine, and dry, there was
no disease ; and so far as his experience went, there was
most disease where the pastures were the richest. It was
incontestable they had got disease among the sheep in
this district, and without the presence of foreign sheep
it still broke out again. He observed that last year in the
wet season it was very prevalent, but on the disappear-
ance of the wet the disease in a great measure disap-
peared. In his own flock of 500 or 600 sheep the dis-
ease had entirely disappeared, and for months not a
single sheep or lamb had had anything the matter with
it in the foot. Last year he had not a single ewe, or
indeed a single sheep, that was not diseased several times
over. No foreign sheep had been near his flock. His
plan to get rid of the disease had been to see his flock
dressed every day. He believed he should not have got
rid of it without, because every sheep took a long time
in dressing ; and a great deal of patience and attention
were required, as well as much cutting ; because, unless
every particle of disease, up to the very coronet itself,
were removed, and the foot dressed with care, the dis-
ease would break out again. He did not think all the
efforts of the agricultural societies would induce the

I'HE FARMEit'S MAGAZINE.

Government to interfere ; and his advice was, that every
man should use his best endeavours to get rid of the
disease in his own flock,

Mr. Watkins doubted whether Mr. Curtler and he
were alluding to the same disorder. There were three
distinct diseases of the feet of sheep. One was the old-
fashioned foot-rot, now prevalent about this neighbour-
hood, which everybody knew by the peculiar appearance
and smell of the foot. Then there was another disorder,
which became prevalent when he was a young man,
which people in the neighbourhood of Kidderminster
called " wildfire," in order to distinguish it from the
foot-rot. It came on with a violent swelling at the ankle
and often at the fetlock-joint ; matter would form in a
large abscess, the sheep very often rubbed its nose or its
eye against its foot, and those parts became inoculated,
and the sheep was in consequence badly disfigured about
the face. Sometimes the sheep would get inoculated
on the breast, where there was a little bareness from
lying down, and then abscesses would form about the
body. But this was not the disease to which he wished
to direct their attention. The disease he meant was not
known in this country before 1843 or 1844, when it
spread rapidly across the country, taking a flock here
there, and missing others. The sheep appeared to be
palsied when taken with it. He at first fancied his sheep
had a complaint in the back or spine, they seemed to
have so little power about the legs. It turned out to be
a disease in the coronet and round the hoofs. As he said
last year, he believed that when the disease appeared the
best plan was to puncture the coronet, put a seton in,
and drive away the virulent matter before it penetrated
between the sensitive part of the foot and the hoof, and
caused separation. He still believed the disease was
imported, because it was talked of by the old German
writers centuries ago, and had not been written cf in
this country, and, moreover, first made its appearance
on the introduction of the new tariff. Where the sheep
had been injured by this disease, the old-fashioned foot-
rot was sure to follow, but that was very easily cured ;
if not, it was from the ignorance of the shepherd.

Mr. G. Whittaker mentioned, as a remedy, pyrolig-
neous acid, in which as much blue and white vitriol as
possible is dissolved, and then mixed with Armenial
bole, in order to make it stick to the sheep's foot. Butter
of antimony, which was an old-fashioned remedy, was
too strong.

A NEW SUBSTITUTE FOR THE POTATO.— In the
garden of the Horticultural Society at Chiswick are growing
two plants of a Chinese yam, which is expected to prove an
excellent substitute for the potato. They have been obtained
from the Jardin clcs Plantes at Paris, where they have been
made the subject of experiments that leave no doubt that it
will become a plant of real importance in cultivatiou. " If,"
says M. Decaisne, who has paid much attention to matters of
this kind, " a new plant has a chance of becoming useful in
rural economy, it must fulfil certain conditions, in the absence
of which its cultivation cannot be profitable. In the first place,
it must have been domesticated in some measure, and must anit
the climate ; moreover, it must in a few months go through

all the stages of development, so as not to interfere with the
ordinary and regular course of cropping ; and, finally, its pro-
duce must have a market value in one form or another. If
the plant is intended for the food of man, it is also indispens-
able that it shall not offend the tastes or the culinary habits of
the persons among whom it is introduced. To this may be
added, that almost all the old perennial plants of the kitchen
garden have been ahaudoned in favour of annuals, wherever
the latter could be found with similar properties. Thus, lathy-
yus tuheroms, sediim telepJmm, &c., have given way before po-
tatoes, spinach, and the like. Now, the Chinese yam satisfies
every one of these conditions. It has been domesticated from
time immemorial, it is perfectly hardy in this climate (Paris),
its roots is bulky, rich in nutritive matter, eatable when raw,
easily cooked— either by boiling or roasting— and then having
HO other taste than that of flour ffeculej. It is as much a
ready-made bread as the potato, and it is better than the
batatas or sweet potato. Horticulturists should, therefore,
provide themselves with the new arrival, and try experiments
with it in the different climates and soils of France. If they
bring to their task, which is of great public importance, the
requisite amount of perseverance and intelligence, I have a firm
belief that the potato yam fif/name hatatasj will, like its pre-
decessor the potato, make many a fortune, and more especially
alleviate the distress of the lower classes of the people." ^ Such
is M. Decaisne's account of this new food-plant, which is now
in actual cultivation at Chiswick ; and judging from the size
of the set from which one of the plants had sprung, it is'evi-
dent that the tubers have all the requisites for profitable cul-
tivation. One has been planted under glass, the other in the
open air, and at present both appear to be thriving equally
well. The species has been called dioscorea batatas, or the potato
yam. It is a climbing plant, bearing considerable resemblance
to our common black bryony, and, when it is considered
how nearly that plant is related to the yams, the probability of
our new comer becoming naturalized among us receives sup-
port. Whether, however, it realizes all that the French say of
it or not, the tiial of it in this country cannot prove otherwise
than interesting and worthy of the society which has had the
honour of introducing it. Let us hope, however, that it may
indeed prove what it is professed to be,7';a good substitute for
the potato," and in all respects equal to that valuable esculent.
— From a Correspondent,

AGRICULTURAL STATISTICS OF HAMPSHIRE.—
From the report of Sir John Walsham and Mr. Hawley, on
the agricultural statistics of Hampshire, printed by order of
the House of Commons, we take the followmg important
totals : —

Number of statute acres 895,410|

Of these the number of arable is. . 603,219i
Number of acres of land under cultivation, distinguishing the
different kinds of crops :— Wheat. 96,2284-; barley, 62,380f ;
oats, 57,0754; rye, 1,907J; peas and beans. 14,096|;
tares and vetches, 13,868^; potatoes, 2,8014; turnip or
rape, 83,847 ; carrots. 388^ ; mangold wurtzel or beet root,
1,515J; cabbages, 355; clover, lucerne, &c.. 100,114^;
meadow and pasture, 123,519§ ; chicory, none ; hops, 1,7114 '>
other crops, 4,260 ; fallow, 39,076|. Number of acres not in
crop :— Woods or plantations, 105,839| ; commons or
wastes, 89,6304 ; holdings of less than two acres, 17,382| ;
land not accounted for, 79,338^. Amount of stock on the
21th October, 1853 :— Horses, 24^076 ; milch cows, 19,350 ;
other cattle, 13,148 ; sheep and lambs, 439,227 ; swinci
61,860.

y 2

312

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

THE REAPING MACHINE COMPETITION.

This week it is our duty to record the second great trial
of reapiug machines under the auspices of the Stirlingshire
Agricultural Societj'^, which came off with considerable ^clat
on Friday last. Public advertisement had given notice that
no less than eleven machines had been ordered for competi-
tion ; of that number five appeared to be machines with which
the agricultural body were more or less previously acquainted,
the remainder being either altogether new or only partially
brought out; and as regards this last division, it may, of
course, be supposed that expectations were excited and
curiosity raised on tiptoe. The result of the turn-out, there-
fore, as we observed from the remarks of many individuals,
was to a certain extent mixed with disappointment, when it
was found that five machines only started in competition.
Two others, indeed, were on the field, but withdrawn, and of
these we may afterwards take some notice.

The following machines were entered for competition : —

1. Dray's Hussey's Lincoln premium machine.

2. Crosskill's Bell's improved machine.

3. Crosskill's Hussey's improved.

4. M'Cormick's, without web.

5. M'Cormick's, with web.

6. Hussey's, improved by Gardner.

7. Wylie and Gardner's (of Stirling) new machine.

8. Simpson's (of Westmains) new machine.

9. Eeid's (of Monkton Mills) new machine.

10. Drummond's (of Cameron Bank) new machine; and

11. A second Bell, entered by Mr. M'Queen, of Arnheive.

The competing machines were, for the occasion, numbered 1
to 5, and designated as below : —
No. 1. M'Queen's Bell.

2. Dray's Husaey.

3. M'Cormick's.

4. Burry's M'Cormick.

5. Crosskill's Bell.

By the arrangement of the Committee of Management, each
machine was to operate upon the different crops in the follow-
ing order : — Oats, wheat, barley, and beans ; and for each
machine a portion of the respective crops was marked off, for
which the owners drew lots, and to these lots the respective
numbers were affixed. The five lots of each crop were, of
course, in the same field, and it fortunately happened that the
crop in each was tolerably uniform in quality. The oat-field
was a fair stand-up sample ; the wheat rather thin on the
ground, aud consequently upright, with a strong undergrowth
of creeping weeds ; the barley, without being laid, was con-
siderably distorted and trying for a machine ; the beans were,
on the whole, a strong crop, but less uniform than any of the
others ; and, as for the surface state of all the fields, it was
that of land under the best system of modern management —
lidges level, and no deep furrows ; hence, in the most favour-
able state for machine reapiug.

The arrangements made for the convenience of the Judges
of the trials were, that they should have the whole field to
themselves up to 12 o'clock. This was, no doubt, a matter of
great convenience to the judges ; but, unless it is intended tha
they shall publish a detailed report of the day's proceedings,
with their remarks on the efficiency, the defects, and modes
of operation of tha different machines, suggestions for im-

provements, &c., we question very much the propriety of such
exclusiveness and apparent want of respect for the public.
For our own part, although by courtesy admitted to the trial
fields, the vigilance with which the police adhered to their
instructions, debarred us from any close inspection of the
working of the machines until after the appointed hour for the
general public. From these circumstances we are unable,
from ocular observation, to offer such minute remarks on the
action of the machines as we would be inclined to do had we
had the opportunity of leisurely studying their action and
effects.

In the latter part of the day we did obtain crowded oppor-
tunities of observation on different machines on wheat, barley,
and beans. From these observations it became very apparent,
long before the opinion of the judges became known, that
Crosskill's improved Bell's machine. No. 5, was to carry the
day. It had performed on all the three white crops with its
usual precision and effect, which we need not again describe
here ; and on beans, where all the others fell more or less
short, it went tlirough without stoppage.

Of the two machines. No. 3 and 4, on M'Cormick's prin-
ciple, it soon became evident that No. 3 was the best of the
two. This machine is M'Cormick's original with some im-
provements, both in the construction of its frame-work and in
the arrangement of its machinery. It worked in every case
most satisfactorily, and, though from its mode of delivery,
held inferior to No. 5, yet from its great simplicity of parts,
it seemed to be generally admitted to hold the second position
of the day. We know also that it possesses certain qualities
that enables it to achieve what even Bell's cannot perform—
one of these is its aptitude for crossing deep furrows. Its
cutter, as is now well known, has been engrafted on Bell's
machine ; but owing to the peculiarities necessary in the
frame-work of the latter, its adopted cutter is worked at a dis-
advantage as compared with that of its parent. In the ori-
ginal the cutter is worked directly by a connecting rod from
the crank, while in the new one that oflice is performed by
the intervention of a lever between the connecting rod and
the cutter. That lever we would presume to advise Mr.
Crosskill to dispense with if possible.

The M'Cormick machine. No. 4, differs but little from
the original, excepting that it has adopted Bell's delivery
web, and this, as in the case of appropriation above alluded
to, seems to be applied in some measure at a disadvantage.
The peculiarities of construction of the original _again come in
the way of the combination, and the application of the web
is accompanied with an obstacle that prevents a free delivery
in any heavy crops. In ordinary cases the machine performs
well; but this defect caused its complete failure in beans.
But the object Lord Kinnaird has here been in pursuit of is
too important to be lightly dropped. We therefore hope that,
instead of being discouraged, his Lordship will yet persevere in
the combination till a successful consummation is achieved.

The machine No. 2, Hussey's by Dray, is almost a
curiosity from its apparent simplicity and lightness, while its
general principles are very similar to M'Cormick's, excepting
in the serrature of its cutter, there being two plain edges
meeting at a much more acute angle than in M'Cormick's,
and its having no reel. The only new feature we observe in
this machine is, that its platform is converted into a tilting

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

313

board, operated upon by the foot of the raker. When the
quantity intended for a sheaf has been collected, the fore edge
of the platform is tilted up, and this lessens the labour of
delivery, the foot and hands keeping exact time. We cannot
help expressing doubts of the utility of this improvement ;
for, although the person who performed this combined action
of foot and hands effected it with great dexterity, it was ob-
servable that on the tilt being raised, however quickly done,
there is a tendency for the first of the succeeding collection to
get under the edge of the platform, instead of getting upon it.
A novice at the rake on such a machine would make sad work
of it.

THE TEST OF DRAUGHT.

The amount of muscular exertion of the horse expended in
impelling such machines, is a matter of the first importance,
and much has been said for and against machine-reaping on
this score. To determine therefore such amount ought to
form a prominent feature in all such trials as the present.

A dynamometer having been procured, the machines were in
succession tested by it. The subjoined average result of these
trials of draught is to be taken as the absolute of each machine
as it worked ; but to obtain the true relative in proportion to
the reaped area, we must take into account the breadth that
each machine actually cuts. It must be remarked also that in
noting the observations of the instrument, considerable dis-
crepancies were observed to arise from irregularities in the
individual crops, as they stood thicker or thinner on the
ground, &c,, and what appeared more difiicult to account for
was, that the heavy crop of beans required not more draught
than the lighter, though distorted, crop of barley. In one
case, indeed, M'Cormick's, No. 3, appeared to work heavier in
the latter. We give the average in the annexed table, without
specifying crop, in cwts. : —

DRAUGHT OF MACHINES.

No. cwts.

1. M'Glueen's Bell 4|

2. Dray's Hussey, 2|

3. M'Cormick's 3^

4. Burry's M'Cormick, 4|-

5. Crosskill's Bell, 4§

In valuing these draughts let it be kept in mind that Cross-
kill's machines have a breadth of cutter equal to 6 ft. 11 in.,
M'Cormick's 6 feet, and Dray's 5 feet ; and further, that as a
general average, the breadth usually cut by any of them falls
6 inches short of the absolute breadth of cutters ; hence Cross-
kill's loses l-13th, M'Cormick's l-12th, and Dray's 1-lOth of
their ostensible breadth of cut. From the averages given above*
and further qualified by the reductions due to breadth, it will
be readily perceived that the resistance to those machines ap-
proximates very closely to that of a two-horse plough when
taking a furrow on ordinary land of 7 or 8 inches in depth,
discrepancies in the one being not greater than in the other.
The complaint, therefore, of reaping machines being so op-
pressive on the horses, would seem to be due more to the
accelerated speed at which the horses are driven, than to the
actual resistance the machine reaper has to meet.

This view, then, leads to the question— Would it not be ad-
visable for reaping-machine makers to reconstruct their calcu-
lations so as to reduce the speed of the first mover, the horse,
preserving the present speed of the cutter if necessary.

The judges, after a careful examination, awarded the first
premium, being for the best machine, to Crosskill's Bell ; and
the second of equal value, for the best machine not exceeding
25 guineas, to Dray's Hussey,

Of the new machines, little of a satisfactory nature can be
said. Referring to the list of entered machines. No. 7 was
tried, we believe, the day previous to the exhibition, but the
result was not such as to justify its being brought forward.
The cutter is, we understand, on the principle of Bell's
original, but both of the parts of the shears move, instead of
one, as in Bell's. No. 9 was not fully completed. Mr. Reid,
we understand, still retains a favourable view of the principle
he has adopted, and we hope in an early number to give the
details of it. But, of course, in the absence of these, and still
more of practical results, we cannot speak. No. 10 was tried ;
but we were informed by a party who witnessed it, the failure
was complete, the machine passing over the grain and leaving
it uncut. No. 8, however, was tested and partially succeeded,
and a further notice is therefore necessary.

The cutter, though ingenious, is extremely complicated,
and without an engraving could not be explained intelligibly.
Though the operation of cutting was performed we might
almost say satisfactorily, the nature of the cutter is such as to
make its continuous working without frequent breakings all
but impracticable. Indeed, we have no hesitation in describing
the cutter as not adapted for practical purposes. The peculiarity
of the machine, however, is that the operation of binding the
sheaves is performed on the machine in addition to the cutting.
For this purpose it carries three men, one of whom lifts the
cut grain from the cutter in bunches, each sufiicient for a
sheaf, to a raised platform, at which the other two men are
stationed, and who alternately receive the bunches, lay them
on a band previously prepared, and, having tightened and
secured the band, they respectively toss overboard their
finished sheaf. Our readers may remember that an article
appeared in the Journal of Jgricitlture recommending this
addition to the reaping machine, the writer considering that
it would not till then be perfect. At the time we showed the
erroneousness of this view, which was directing the attention
of agricultural mechanics to the supplying of what was not
needed, and which in the most ingenious form could scarcely
fail in increasing the complexity, and interfering with the
effectiveness of any reaping machine. The machine under
notice supplies an illustration of the soundness of this view.
The weight upon the horses from carrying three men upon
the machine, and the diminution of the physical power of the
men from operating upon a moved body, were very clearly
shown, and the whole performance contrasted so unfavourably
with that of the other machines, and particularly of Bell's, as
we trust wiJI dispel the illusion that this is the beau ideal of
the perfect reaper.

In the present case there is no mechanical contrivance to
modify the effects of concentrating the operating force on the
platform, and it is possible that some such contrivance might
render the principle less palpably erroneous, or, rather, prac-
tically less unsuccessful. But in any circumstances, the addi-
tion of complexity in any form of the reaper is the rock to be
dreaded rather than the point to be aimed at.

This may lead to the remark, that if a greater amount of
that property so important in all agricultural machinery, sim-
plicity, could be secured in the prize reaper, the advantage
would be immense. The complexity of Bell's is its great, its
only fault ; and with improvements in this respect, and in the
general manufacture of the implement, for which the experi-
ence of this season will give facilities, an implement will be
added to the farm, of interest and value, perhaps second to
none in the present state of our mechanical knowledge. —
North British Agriculturist,

314

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

AUTUMNAL MEETINGS OF AGRICULTURAL SOCIETIES.

The autumnal festivals of our district agricultural
societieSj as now being held in different parts of the
kingdom, offer nearly all alike the same good cause
for mutual congratulation. What they have lost in
mere excitement they make ample amends for
in more profitable matter. There is scarcely a
gathering but at which you see landlord and tenant
equally anxious to come to the point. The high-
flown invective, the loudly given challenge, or the
deep bass of more effective despair, are as happily
found wanting as the empty brag or self-sufficient
mob oratory to v/hich they were opposed. Our
themes and our attractions at present are in terrible
declination — touching only on such matter-of-fact
and practical measures as may best advance the
business we are engaged in.

In accordance with a custom to which this journal
has long been habituated, we shall proceed to
select some evidence from that great variety already
brought under our notice. In doing this, we must
especially commend the spirit in which the land-
lords appear desirous of meeting the exertions of
their tenantry. They are approaching more rapidly
than ever to that union we have so long advised ;
and this by a means to which the Mark Lane
Express is, if possible, yet more committed. The
foundation of all agricultural improvement must
trace back, sooner or later, to that good under-
standing by vv^hich alone either of the parties to a
contract will be encouraged, as insured, to do his
best.

It is this feeling, more or less directly expressed,
that characterises the majority of the meetings to
which we refer. It is this that comes either as the
prologue or " the clincher" to the argument. Land-
lord, agent, and occupier incite, advise, or promise
to perform, with this as the great connecting link
between them. Let our first testimony be that of
a gentleman uniting in his own person two of these
pursuits. It is Mr. John Kerr, one of the speakers
at the Whitley Agricultural Society, who by his
own showing " was somewhat in a peculiar posi-
tion— being a tenant-farmer and the manager of a
large estate in the immediate neighbourhood. He
should consider himself unworthy of the latter trust
if he was not fearlessly to state his opinions. He
was not of those who thought it wise, prudent, or
even just to take advantage of the first dawn of
agricultural prosperity to advance the rent of land.
He agreed that the landlords came nobly forward
to the rescue of their tenants in the year of diffi-
culty and depression, returning them in some in-

stances 10, 12, or 15 per cent. But he would also
have them to remember that in those years of
depression the tenants' capital was diminished to
the same extent. It was a mutual sacrifice between
the landlord and the tenant. They were pulling
together to save the agricultural ship when she was
in troubled waters. Most assuredly the interests
of landlord and tenant were identical. There were
three conditions he should assume : these he con-
sidered ought to exist between landlord and tenant,
and were essential to good and successful farming.
In the first place, a person engacjing a farm ought
to have sufficient capital ; in the second, the land-
lord letting it ought to hold out perfect security for
the investment of that capital in his soil. Perhaps
that could be done by proper clauses in the leases
or agreements, that whilst they protected the pro-
perty of the landlord and secured his rents, they
also protected the interests of the tenant. Thirdly,
the tenant ought to be possessed of a certain
amount of knowledge and skill for the prompt and
judicious application of his capital to the soil.
With these conditions he believed they would find
mother earth as good an investment as almost any
other." ■ It is, we trust, an estabUshed maxim by
this time, that sufficient capital will never come
without sufficient security ; and we need not say
how heartily we agree with Mr. Kerr when, in de-
fining the duties of landlord and tenant, he places
these as first and second in the fundamental prin-
ciples of good farming.

Lord Lonsdale at the Cumberland and West-
moreland meeting came much to the same con-
clusion. " The first things," his Lordship thinks,
" necessary for promoting the success of agricul-
ture, are vigilant improving landlords and agents,
and active and enterprising tenants." We all
know where the key to this improvement and
enterprise is to be found. From the lord, the
tenant, and the steward, let us go one step further,
and avail ourselves of a word from the thorough
man of business. It is our old acquaintance, Mr.
Mechi, great, as usual, the other day in Cheshire,
and on some points, it is satisfactory to note, far more
worthy of attention. Here is one of them : —
" He was sorry, that when his friend Mr. Wilmot
left his farm, there was not a law of valuation in
this county, as there was in Lincolnshire ; that, if
the land had benefited by the course taken by the
tenant, some portion of this should not be enjoyed
by the tenant, was almost a crime. He feared that
no improvement in an estate could go on without

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

315

the concurrence of the landlord and tenant. If
the landlord v/as to have all the advantage of im-
provements, how could they expect tenants to make
them, when they were injuring their families by
doing so ?" Mr. Mechi's chief object in visiting
Cheshire was, by his own account, " to see a very
fine instance of progress, in the shape of their friend
Mr. Wilmot's farm." It appears he was in no
way disappointed, being, in fact, only " sorry there
was no law of valuation, as in Lincolnshire."

We may well leave this to speak for itself,
while in place of further multiplying such modern
instances, we may cull a few more extracts on dif-
ferent topics connected with the advance of agri-
culture, that it would be impossible to find space
for in a more detailed form. At this same meeting,
Mr. Tollemache, one of the members, entered into
some interesting particulars respecting one of the
chief and most famous products of the county.
We must still, however, allow the honourable gen-
tleman the customary prologue : — " The landlords
should strive to do their parts, and the tenants to do
theirs ; both should join together in carrying out all
arrangements, and leases should be given which
would allow satisfactory compensation to the tenant
for unexhausted improvements on the expiration of
his term of occupancy. (Cheers.) With regard to
cheese, its importation during the last six years had
been, in 1848, 441,000 cwts. ; in 1849, 390,000
cwts.; in 1850, 347,000 cwts. ; in 1851, 338,000
cwts.; in 1852, 289,000 cwts.; and in 1853,
396,000 cwts,, showing an increase in 1853 over the
preceding year of 107,000 cwts., which was the
largest importation ever made to this country, with
the exception of 1848. Unless they improved their
cheese, the v/hole competition of Leicestershire,
Lancashire, Derbyshire, Gloucestershire, and
Somersetshire would become more formida-
ble than the foreign competition. He was
aware that the question of improving their
cheese was rather a delicate and unpopular
subject; but still, to make their meetings really
useful, they ought to speak their minds.
The finest cheese in the world Vv^as a first-rate
Cheshire cheese. But there was not a cheese-
monger in the kingdom who would not tell them
that for one first-rate Cheshire cheese there were
about 200 of an inferior description, and that since
the introduction of gold-dust those of inferior
quality had been on the increase and those of the
superior class on the decrease. He had always
advocated boning and draining; old Mr. Baxter
had told him that the finest Cheshire cheese was
made on cold clay land. He rode some years ago
to a farm on the borders of Leicestershire, the
tenant of which told him she had two kinds of
pasture, good and bad land. She could make good

cheese on her poor land ; but on the rich land, to
make good cheese, it was absolutely necessary to
deprive the milk of a portion of its richness by
taking from it some of its cream. That plan had
been partially tried with much success, but not on
the farms near him. He had, however, made
arrangements for experiments on the farms near
his residence, in the making of cheese, and the
results should be communicated to their friend the
secretary of the society, for the information of the
members."

This is as it should be— the landlord " striving
to do his part," and engaging in experiments for
the benefit of his tenantry. It was only last week
we ourselves touched on this question of the Che-
shire cheese, when, as it will be remembered, we
found it disposed of to no great advantage. Sir
James Graham, at the Cumberland Show, gives us
hopes that in any future barter of this description
the farmer may be treated with on fairer terms.
He says, on authority of course—" Of modern dis-
coveries I hold that guano is the most important.
I deeply regret the rise in the price of that most
essential article. The Government, for many years
past, without reference to party or pohtical distinc-
tions, have been most anxious to promote its sup-
ply. I cannot speak with confidence, but I have
hopes, strong hopes, that this supply is about to
be enlarged. This I can tell you, a ship of war
has sailed into the Eastern seas within the last six
months, to visit certain islands, from which I have
received a favourable report, and under the belief
that guano may be obtained there. And if these
hopes be reahzed, I am certain that guano will be
materially reduced in price ; nor can I think a more
important and legitimate service can be rendered
to the state than in aiding to increase the supply of
so valuable an article."

We may add another " good look-out a-head" to
this, and here for the present stay our evidence.
At a meeting of Lord Londesborough's tenantry
during the past week, at Grimston, his Lordship
stated that " he had impressed upon his agents his
wish that, provided the tenants are willing to pay a
fair and reasonable rent, they shall not be tormented
by an unreasonable quantity of ground game ; and,
further, that this wish is to be carried out in the
ensuing season."

We are assured that Lord Londesborough's pro-
mise was received with " the greatest satisfaction."
We can assure him that in thus, perhaps, sacrificing
his own pleasures he is affording a most commend-
able example ; and with this we think we are justi-
fied in repeating that the agricultural gatherings of
this autumn offer some good cause for mutual con-
graUilation.

316

THE FARMERS MAGAZINE.

THE REPEAL OF THE MALT-TAX THE ONLY PERMANENT SETTLE-
MENT OF THE NEW BEER ACT QUESTION.

" The night drave on wi sangs an clatter,
And aye the ale was growing better ;
The landlady and Tarn grew gracious
Wi' favours— secret, sweet, and precious."

Tam O'Shanter.

Our publicans have just discovered that their " craft
is in danger" by the operation of the New Beer Act.
Prior to the statute coming in force, a vast amount of
beer, it would appear, had been drunk on Sunday after-
noons, and after ten o'clock at night. Parliament has
put a stop to this, the policeman just popping in as
" the landlady and Tam are beginning to grow gracious ;"
hence the consequences. From " Cremorne Gardens"
to "Jack Straw's Castle," the British capital is in a
greater uproar than was Ephesus when Paul preached,
" They be no gods which are made with men's hands.'.
Protection societies are to be formed, the daily press
thrown overboard, and new beer-shop oracles es-
tablished. In short, no stone is to be left unturned,
until tap-room devotees are allowed to worship at
the shrine of Bacchus unmolested.

We have not taken up the pen to justify the provisions
of the New Beer Act, much less palliate its short-
comings ; but to point out the fact, that the working of
the measure adds another to the many reasons which al-
ready exist for the immediate repeal of the malt tax, as
the only permanent and effectual means which the legis-
lature can adopt for meeting the present progress of
science and social order, securing the tranquillity of
the sabbath in our rural and suburban districts, and
satisfying all classes of her Majesty's intelligent sub-
jects. We shall have no difficulty in establishing the
soundness of this proposition in very few words ; point-
ing out at the same time the anomalous and even dan-
gerous policy of the opponents of the New Beer Act,
and the manner in which the retirement of country resi-
dences and watering places is likely to be assailed,
should they succeed in getting a forced construction
upon the statute to suit their own ends, or even its ulti-
mate repeal and return to the old system.

Pree Trade in Malt would give rise to a very
different and better state of things than now exists, for
every family capable of managing its affairs economically
(and why should not every family be so ?) would then
have its own bottle-bin or beer-barrel, and a glass of
good wholesome ale at home when required. The poorest
man in the land who now drinks beer could then afford
to have it at home, and would soon appreciate its value,
social, moral, and dietary, and shun the intoxicating stuff
of the beer-shop, with all its concomitant evils. Even
beer-shops themselves would be obliged to supply a
wholesome article, while public breweries would be de-
prived of their present indirect monopoly, and therefore
have to enter into honest competition with private fami-
lies—no easy task, they would find, were thrifty wives.

once more fairly into the way of making what best
suited themselves. At present, nine-tenths of their num-
ber know nothing about it, or even a glass of good
wholesome family ale, were they to receive it ; so that
under such circumstances — circumstances occasioned by
the evil working of the malt-tax — it is an easy matter
for those who have never brewed their own ale to fabri-
cate a thousand objections, and even impossibilities, as
to private families entering into competition with beer-
shops and public-breweries ; but such objectors may just
as well inform us, that we had better get our tea and
coffee in half-pints and pennyworths as required from
some cofFee-shop, as we can get them cheaper and better
from such a source than we can make them ourselves ! We
are not insensible to the miserable state of our domestic
economy at present, independently of the influence of the
malt tax, more especially in the lower ranks of life. A
visit to the homes of the frequenters of beer-shops would
satisfy the most sceptical on this point, and the necessity
of a speedy reformation here at whatever cost it may be
obtained, and whatever amount of grumbling it may give
rise to among publicans and anti-sabbatarians. Instead
of parliament legislating and establishing means for es-
tranging the labouring man from all that is elevating in
connexion with his own fireside, the more rational policy
is obviously to adopt the opposite course of cultivating
what is calculated to enrich the tone of domestic society,
rendering its associations hallowed in the bosoms of
those who are virtually the bones and sinews of the na-
tion. Much of late has been said and written on cottage
cookery, and the propriety — nay, necessity of doing
something to educate young girls in this branch of
economy, in order that they may realize domestic happi-
ness at their own fire-sides, and elevate their off-
spring above the ignominious state of ignorance,
idleness, wretchedness, and even aversion to every-
thing ennobling, in which they themselves have now
the misfortune to be brought up in by their parents !
The object is good in the highest degree, and when
the cottager's wife attains to that level in the art of
cookery which she unquestionably ought to occupy, she
may as well be entrusted with a bushel of malt as a
pound of tea, being qualified to infuse the one as eco-
nomically as the other, and to serve it with as much
success, giving her husband's glass of ale a relish which
it does not now possess, besides making herself a
" queen at her own fireside," which she never can be, so
long as he (her husband) is in the beer-shop.

The manner in which beer-shop customers, generally
speaking, bring up their families at present, as to beer,
is humiliating in the extreme, for from the cradle they
are taught both by precept and example to look up to
it as the most dignified item, so to speak, in the daily
bill of fare, and the beer-shop as the only source from
whence it is to be obtained. It even becomes an honour

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

317

to be allowed to go for the " dinner beer ;" consequently
squalid children in rags may be seen casting out by the
way as to who should carry it ; and we have often seen
more than two hands at the task. And more than
children in rags may be seen carrying home the dinner
beer ; for last Sunday, when returning from worship, we
met a little girl with a pot of porter in one hand, and
a fine parasol in the other, the sun being very bright at
the time. Then comes the potman's hour, when the
quietude of every dwelling — Sunday as on Saturday —
is aroused from its slumbers by his unearthly yell ; when
taking the stated allowance must supersede every other
culinary manipulation. Half-fed babes may shed tears,
and stifle the cravings of hunger as they best can ; but
until " Pots" passes, there is no bread-and-butter, and
the lesson is daily taught them experimentally.

And beer is not only thus taught them to be the most
honourable, as to rank, of all the elements of their daily
bread, but the most essential as to quality, for everything
else must give way to it. Father must have his beer-
shop allowance, for instance, if groceries of every kind
should be wanting. Even the loaf itself is frequently
reduced in size — mothers and their hapless babes sub-
mitting to privations which tongue dare not tell, or ear
hear, the unfortunate recipients being even grateful for
the niggardly morsel daily doled out to them.

Then follow beer and tobacco enjoyments, with the
instruction which they afford. If a friend arrives, how
cheerfully does mother or some member of the family
run to the beer-shop for a glass of ale, if it should take
the last pence in the house ! Next come the traveller
and wayfaring man, who require a glass to help them on
their journey, at every beer-shop they pass; and lastly,
the evening pipe, taproom gossip, news of the day,
singing, dancing, and midnight revelry — all affording a
sad lesson to infant and youthful minds, with no alter-
native choice.

The Christian mind can hardly review the juvenile
course of education we have thus briefly glanced at,
without manifesting emotions of the deepest anxiety for
a different state of things. "Train up a child in the
way he should go," said the wise man ; but what is the
line of instruction which the children of beer- drinkers
receive, under the present system ? what the humiliating
precept and contaminating example received by the
easily impressed mind of the innocent child of many an
honest, hard-working, and upright man, plodding on-
ward in the beaten track of malt-tax times, apparently
unconscious of consequences, or the possibility of
following any other course ? How differently would the
character of tuition be, and its influence upon the
morals of the rising generation, were mothers to make
their own beer for dinner and supper, as they now do
their tea or coffee for breakfast, and to use it with the
same prayerful regard for the domestic happiness and
welfare of the family! We might here add much did
our limits permit, but shall leave our readers to contrast
the two pictures we have thus placed before them, only
observing that at the present moment the social, edu-
cational, and moral circumstances of our juvenile classes
are questions second to none in our political economy.

With regard to the New Beer Act and its opponents,
the increasing growth of our large manufacturing towns
is such, the facilities for travelling so many, and the tide
of Sunday excursions becoming so strong, that the
religious welfare of our rural villages, watering-places,
and the like, is in jeopardy, and obviously therefore
demands of Parliament legislative protection. Now, in
estimating ajid consulting the religions welfare of such
places, our senators are doubtless not to he guided by
the maxims of beer-sJiops, or those who frequent them ;
but by the institutes of the Christian religion itself, and
to infidels who abjure religion (?) we may add social
order. When strangers visit us, etiquette obviously
demands that their comportment harmonize with our
good behaviour — exceeding it rather than falling short ;
in other words, rather showing us a good example than
a bad. Were Parliament to adopt the opposite policy,
we should soon have the hallowed retirement of the
country — the retreat of old age, infirmity, sickness, &c.,
converted into a very pandemonium by the ' ' beer and
tobacco scum" of our large manufacturing and commer-
cial towns — increasing at a more rapid rate, we fear, than
the general population. In the days of the Romans, the
whole population of the kingdom was one- fourth less than
that of the British capital at the present time ; so that
without making any allowance for the influence of de-
praved habits on a condensed population, we have more
than the wickedness of the whole kingdom in the days
of the Romans let loose every Lord's Day on our metro-
politan villages and provinces ! Or under another view
the offscourings of our large towns (exclusive of Christian
excursionists, of whom we believe there are many)
exceed at a very low estimate, the whole population of
the Roman period ! So that it takes no great stretch of
vision to perceive that, unless the legislature interferes,
the religious welfare of our provinces must eventually
be sacrificed. In point of fact it is already suffering
seriously in many instances. For : —

At present our provinces have more than enough to do
with the Sunday profanation and beer-shop immorality
of their own villages, without an increase from our large
towns. Many landlords, tenants, and country clergy-
men, with the hearty co-operation of local newspapers,
are now labouring assiduously to effect a salutary re-
formation here. Sunday and other schools are already
beginning to manifest a perceptible improvement — cot-
tages, with gardens, for agricultural labourers, to arise
adjoining their work, and the whole to bid fair for a
successful termination ; but if while we are thus suc-
cessfully pulling down those dens of iniquity which have
so long polluted the moral atmosphere of our provinces,
malt-tax monopolists, with their beer-shop satellites,
are allowed to legislate on the subject, and to introduce
and establish greater evils, and more contaminating than
those removed, the consequences require no comment,
especially if they are allowed their own definition of the
New Beer Act — that a traveller is one who goes a mile
or two into the country, or from the centre to the
suburbs of this great metropolis, to " smoke a pipe"
with his friend in a beer-shop on a Sunday ! Our pro-
vinces are unfortunately proverbially slow of action ; but

318

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

on the present occasion we hope they will at once per-
ceive that the exigencies of the case call upon them to
be up and doing immediately j and the suburban villages
and residences of our metropolitan towns are doubtless
not the last which should bestir themselves.

It is rarely indeed that medical men prescribe beer
and tobacco, v.'ith their kindred associations, for those
in delicate health from confinement in the polluted atmo-
sphere of our large manufacturing and commercial
towns who may seek the pure air of the country on a
Sunday ; and more seldom still, after having recom-
mended them to take an excursion into the country, do
they advise them to plunge into the atmosphere of the
tap-room immediately on their return to town ; for
such, we fear, would in too many instances be " the
sow that is washed returning to her wallowing in the
mire." And even in those exceptionary cases where
beer is allowed, the genuine family home-brewed is
obviously the doctor's prescription ; for the unfortunate
patient who cannot walk or 'bus home from any of the
termini of the metropolis unquestionably requires
stronger medicine. Logic in such a case is unnecessary
to convince a thinking public that shutting the door, as
prescribed by parliament, is the only effectual cure.

It is high time that those who visit the country by
excursion trains or otherwise, were taught to elevate
their enjoyments far above that amount of lewd talk,
immadest gesticulations, beer drinking, and smoking
tobacco, so conspicuously exemplified at the different
stations where trains stop or places to which they them-
selves resort. In making this remark, we are perfectly
aware that a large proportion of them already do so,
and would scorn to enter a beer-shop during public
worship or after 10 p.m. on Sunday ; but unfortunately
it is not for these the legislature has to provide, but
for the dissipated and disorderly — those who would
convert the neighbourhood of every subui-ban inn and
beer-shop into a noisy fair of dog-carts and other ve-
hicles of excursion, &c., &c., every Sunday evening,
anything but agreeable to the sick, the sorrowful, and
dying, to say nothing of Christians, and those who have
to get out of bed before cockcrowing on Monday morn-
ing. But for the stringent regulations of railway com-
panies, how often would their excursion carriages be
converted into something worse than the lowest tap-

room ! and if such regulations are justifiable, then acts
of Parliament as stringent are also justifiable and neces-
sary, to control the same disorderly parties after they
leave the carriages, both when they arrive at the end of
their journey outwards and when they return home. The
religious welfare, not more than the progress of social
order, of our rural and suburban villages and the neigh-
bourhood of railway termini, demand this, whatever the
landlords of public houses and their anti-sabbatarian
customers may hastily and prematurely think to the
contrary.

The anti-sabbatarian objection, " Do as you would be
done by" — i. e., " Let us alone, and we will not find
fault with or trouble you" — scarcely merits refutation,
not being applicable ; for the noisy tongue of the drunk-
ard and disorderly reaches the ear of the Christian, in
the same manner as the " cat-o'- nine-tails" the back of
its victim, and often more painfully to the physical
system, when sick — let alone the mind. If Parliament
would incase beer-shops and their pot- men withhi a
vacuum, or hermetically seal the tongues of their cus-
tomers, the objection of anti-sabbatarians might then
come into operation ; but until such is accomplished, it
is about the most absurd and childish one that can well
be imagined.

In conclusion, we are not saying that the new Beer
Act is such a statutory measure as the religious welfare,
progress of science, and social order of our rural and
suburban villages at present require. On the contrary,
we have said that nothing short of a repeal of the malt-
tax, and an entire revisal of our domestic economy of
that most important product of the farmer's toil, malt,
will secure a permanent settlement of the question at
issue. Malt-tax monopolies and tap-room systems,
with their associations, are out of date, being wholly in-
consistent with the advancement of science and the
general progress of things. Slow as farmers are in the
march of improvement, there is not one-fourth of the
amount of beer- shop drinking among them that there
used to be, while their labourers are fast following their
example ; so that it would be unreasonable to suppose that
Parliament would not co-operate with them in so laud-
able a work of reformation, securing for the country — for
the cottage as well as the castle — that religious retirement
and quietude so dear to Englishmen of every rank.

AGRICULTURAL STATISTICS

The British farmer, according to those who pro-
fess to know him best, is proverbial for never
doing anything in a hurry. Small, indeed, to him,
are the attractions of a coup de main. He prefers
rather to feel his way, step by step, and to under-
stand fully what it is you want with him, before he
commits himself to your proposals. Like a coy
mistress, it requires some time and argument to
win him over. There must be many a well-dropped

word, with some good showing that you really do
care for him, and are not going to harm him, ere
he suffers you even to take his hand. Festina
/eBi,) is the motto of the family; and he has had
too many wild offers already from adventurers, not
to ponder well over the pretensions of those who
still seek his favour and alliance.

The Government, we must allow, evince every
inclination to meet his humour. However anxious

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

31d

to have his favour and co-operation, there is no
unseemly haste in bringing him to their wishes.
It is step by step that our rulers are now demon-
strating what they do want of him, as it is by the
same satisfactory process they come to guarantee
that they do not mean to injure him. They may
be asking, to be sure, for an inch when they mean
to take far more ; though by the time they have
made up their minds to do so, we anticipate that
he will be quite as ready to grant as they to seek.
It is this gradual habituation that is, after ail, the
great conqueror. With this we lead people to
volunteer their support to what is good, by proving
to them that it is so. We now but little appreciate
the logic of the barbarian who cut through the
knot that he could not otherwise unravel.

And what is it the country is here once more
asking of the farmer ? what is it we now require
him to give up ? The answer is but a type of the
times, and what every man is asking of his neigh-
bour—z'H/or?wflh"o?». We are all aware, moreover,
how delicately this has been impressed upon his
attention. Despite ofc-repeated assurances from
the agriculturist himself that he wanted to know
how he was going on, there has been nothing like
ill-conditioned haste in taking him at his word. It
has been thought, certainl3', that it would be for the
good of the whole family of us to arrive at these
particulars; but in doing this, let no one be inconve-
nienced or put out of temper. Our own opinion was,
unquestionabl}% that the Government might have
entered upon so important a business as the collec-
tion of our agricultural statistics with a little more
courage and determination. We ourselves were
by no means prepared to find that opposition of
which, it appears, our rulers v/ere so carefully
warned, and so much was made. We further ven-
tured to say at the time this hostility was so loudly
proclaimed, that it was in reality too trifling to be
regarded; as there was, moreover, scarcely one of
the malcontents but had committed himself by de-
manding in some other way that he refused to give.

The experience of the Government has brought
them very much to the same conclusion. A cir-
cular just issued by the Poor-law Board, and
addressed to the Unions of certain English
counties, has this opening: — "You are doubtless
aware that (at the request of the Lords of the Com-
mittee of Council for trade, and with the express
sanction of Parliament) the Poor-law Board under-
took to collect the agricultural statistics of Norfolk
and Hampshire for the year 1853, through the
agency, wherever practicable, of the Boards of
Guardians of those two counties and their officers.
The large measure of success which attended that
experiment to obtain reliable information on a most
important subject, considered in conjunction with

the complete success of somewhat similar opera-
tions in three Scotch counties, has led to a renewal
of these undertakings on a more extended scale in
the present year,"

" The extended scale" begins with a well-merited
comphment to the Highland Agricultural Society
and its active officer, Mr. Hall Maxwell—" The
experiment for 1854 will embrace the whole of
Scotland." This, in fact, has been well known for
some time past, and Mr. Maxwell continually en-
gaged in further insuring, and, in realit}% com-
pleting that success which has so far attended
him. In considering how much the Scotch
society's influence must have done in intro-
ducing this endeavour, and how fully by the
same means it has been carried out, we can
hardly help lamenting that we had not some similar
assistance and direction in England. It must have
been a very nice observance of etiquette which stayed
the Royal Agricultural Society of England from
any share in so becoming a duty. Left here, how-
ever, entirely to work its own way, the experiment
has only ensured a large in place of that complete
success our northern friends can boast of. We have
not, consequently, yet arrived at whole measures.
In addition to Norfolk and Hampshire, we have
now selected for further trial the counties of Wilts,
Suffolk, Leicester, Berks, Worcester, Salop, the
West-Riding of York, Brecon, and Denbigh.
These would seem to have been determined on, not
so much for any assumed advantages they may
possess in themselves towards the thorough reali-
zation of the scheme, but rather with the A^iew
of making other neighbouring districts familiar
with the nature of the information required, and
the machinery employed. The latter, we learn,
will be much the same as that of last year. In
Scotland the collection will be under the control of
the Highland Society, while in England and Wales
we are to rely again on " the machinery which
worked, upon the whole, so satisfactorily in Nor-
folk and Hampshire."

We will not stop to again canvass the policy of
altogether relying on any agency of so entirely an
independent character. The best, however, may
undoubtedly be expected from it ; and we refer our
readers to some further details in another part of our
paper, by which it is hoped the aid of all from whom
it is sought may be cheerfully afforded. Let it be
a point of honour with us to make our collection
of the returns as thoroughly complete as they have
been sent in from Scotland. We believe any pre-
judice as to furnishing the data required has already
died away. We are quite as confident, too, that
there never was any good cause for the expression
of any such ill feeling towards the measure. If
any class will gain more tlian another by the effi-

320

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

cient collection and subsequent distribution of the
statistics of agricultural produce, it, is, we honestly
believe, the producer himself. It will put him on
fairer terms with many who now possess that infor-
mation he does not, and assist him in every way to
make the best of his market.

The following circular has been addressed by the Poor
Law Board to the officials of the Unions in the several
counties where the collection of facts relating to agricul-
tural statistics is proposed to be made for the present

year :■—

"Poor Law Board, "Whitehall, Sept., 1854.

" You are doubtless aware that (at the request of the Lords of
the Committee of Council for Trade and with the express
sanction of Parliament) the Poor Law Board undertook to col-
lect the agricultural statistics of Norfolk and Hampshire for
the year 1833, through the agency, wherever practicable, of
the hoards of guardians of those two counties and their officers.

" The large measure of success which attended that experi-
ment to obtain reliable information on a most important sub-
ject, considered in conjunction with the complete success of
somewhat similar operations in three Scotch counties, has led
to a renewal of these undertakings on a more extended scale in
the present year.

" The experiment for 1854 will embrace the whole of Scot-
land and the following counties of England and Wales — viz.,
Norfolk, Suffolk, Southampton, Wilts, Leicester, Berks,
Worcester, Salop, West Riding of York, Brecon, and Denbigh.

"In Scotland the proceedings will be conducted, as in 1853,
under the auspices of the Highland Society. In England and
Wales it is intended to put in motion the machinery which
worked, upon the whole, so satisfactorily in Norfolk and
Hampshire.

" I am therefore instructed by the Poor Law Board to re-
quest you to have the goodness to move the board of guardians
over which you preside to aid in the accomplishment of an ob-
ject admitted to be of great national importance.

" In Norfolk and Hampshire it was found that this object
was best promoted by the formation and co-operation, in every
union, of a joint committee of owners and occupiers, called
' the Statistical Committee,' with the chairman of the union
for its chairman, and by employing, with the concurrence of
the guardians, the clerk of the union as classifier and the re-
lieving officers as enumerators.

" The countenance and support which a committee so con-
stituted affords, by the mere fact of its existence, as well as by
the employment of the union officers under its directions, go
far to insure success, and I trust you will find no difficulty in
organizing such a committee among the leading agriculturists
of your union. It is not, however, essential, although cer-
tainly most convenient, that the committee should consist ex-
clusively of members of the board of guardians, or that the
persons whom it may employ to enumerate and classify the
required statistics should be selected exclusively from the
officers of the union.

" The duties of the committee are not of a nature to subject
its members to much personal trouble. All, or nearly all, they
have to do may be summed up under the two following
heads :

" To induce, by their example and influence, their neigh-
bours to fill up their schedules before the 30th of September.

" To superintend the labours of the officers engaged in the
inquiry, and to examine and verify the results.

" Annexed, for your own and your board's information, are

copies of the various documents which it has been deemed
desirable to prepare for this inquiry. These documents are
substantially the same as the documents iised in the statistical
inquiry of 1853, though certain modifications, of which prac-
tical experience has suggested the propriety, have been intro-
duced into them.

" I have to add that the clerks of unions, if employed as
classifiers, will be remunerated by a payment at the rate of
lOs. per 100 completed schedules A and B, together with the
further gratuity of 2 guineas for the preparation of schedule
C ; and that the relieving officers, if employed as enumerators,
will be remunerated by a payment at the rate of 40s. per 100
completed schedules A and B, together with a bounty, on the
present occasion, of 5s. per 100 schedules, whenever the diffi-
culties surmounted or the special merit of the work performed
shall, in the opinion of the Poor Law Board, appear to call
for some extra compensation.

" The Poor Law Board are, however, particularly anxious
that, in selecting the enumerators, the relieving officer should
not be employed if any fear can reasonably be entertained
that such employment would be prejudicial to the interests of
the union.

" The results of the experimental proceedings in Norfolk
and Hampshire, which were unavoidably prolonged through a
severe winter, seem to prove that the relieving officers may,
without detriment to the administration of relief, properly be
intrusted with this employment. Still, the Poor Law Board
are very far from wishing to restrict boards of guardians to
the employment of their officers, whenever they see occasion
to apprehend that it will be productive of inconvenience or
mischief.

" It is desirable that the board of guardians should proceed
as soon as may be, to nominate the Statistical Committee, and
appoint their clerk to be classifier, and the relieving officers to
be enumerators, or (if deemed more advisable) recommend for
those offices other persons in their stead, communicating to
me the result of their determination.

" I remain very faithfully yours,

" Poor Law Inspector.
" Chairman of the Board of Guardians."

" LIST OF THE DOCUMENTS ANNEXED.

" 1. Copies of Sir John Walsham's and Mr. Hawley's re-
ports on the agricultural statistics of Norfolk and Hampshire,
and of Sir John Walsham's supplementary report.

" 2. Instructions to the classifiers and enumerators.

" 3. Schedules A, B, and C, with the enumerator's auxiliary
sheet and exemplifications.

" 4. Letter from the Poor Law Inspector to the parish
officers."

AGRICULTURAL STATISTICS.— At the meeting of the
Royal Cornwall Polytechnic Society, held at Falmouth last week.
a very interesting communication was made to the meeting by
Mr. Charles Fox, who stated that among the school productions
there was one by a pupil teacher. It was an agricultural sur-
vey of the parish of Constantine, as far as related to a statis-
tical statement of the corn and green crops. In a parish of
between 6,000 and 7,000 acres this lad had given a very accurate
statement of the breadth of land sown with wheat, barley, oats,
turnips, mangold wurtzel, and carrots. He showed that in
this large parish there were 305 acres of wheat, 625 of barley
and 351 acres of green crops. Mr. Fox mentioned this to
show that it was not so difficult to get an accurate statistical
account of agricultural produce throughout the county as some
people imagined.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

321

SUGGESTIONS

For a more perfect and a more economical Agriculture than hitherto practised, as
the only means of maintaining the value and importance of landed and agricultural
Property in the British Islands under an unrestricted sale of Foreign Agricultural
Produce in the British Markets.

BY JOHN EWART,

Land Surveyor, and Agricultural Architect and Engineer, Newcastle-upon-Tyne.

" Ver^ scire est per causas scire." — Bacon.

Before entering on the discussion of the thesis pro-
posed above, it will be not altogether out of place to
urge the importance of the subject in a few preliminary-
remarks on the relation which subsists between the dif-
ferent industrial pursuits of man ; on the organization
and physiology of vegetables ; and on the productions
of the soil, being, either directly or indirectly, the only
sources of wealth.

The object of the cultivation of the soil is the pro-
duction of vegetables in greater abundance and in
greater perfection than they are spontaneously provided
by Nature, for the use of man, either directly for his
aliment, or for the nourishment of herbivorous animals
reclaimed to his control in a domesticated state. This,
to obviate the precarious resources of savage life in the
spontaneous gifts of the forest for the preservation of
existence, would necessarily be the first industrial pursuit
of man in the earliest stages of his civilization ; and,
from furnishing the first necessaries of life, the cultiva-
tion of the soil would, in all ages and countries, precede
manufactures, in the progress of man from a state of
nature to improvement in his social condition.

To trace the progress of the cultivation of the soil in
the difierent quarters of the earth in which the beneficial
influences of civilization has been extended to the human
race is perhaps unnecessary to the present discussion ;
but it should be remarked, that the cultivation of the
soil has not only been the subject of the earliest efi'orts
of industry in man, but it has continued to be, of all
others that to the present day engage his attention, the
most important in which his energy can be exerted.

On afi'ording the subject the slightest consideration,
the foremost reflection arising in the mind is, that how
much soever commerce and manufactures may aggran-
dize a nation, or contribute to the enjoyment of human
existence, still such pursuits must ever be of secondary
import to the cultivation of the soil, in every country in
which the fruits of the earth are capable of being pro-
duced. The cultivation of the soil, is not only the most
important of all the industrial pursuits of man, but it is
the only real source of wealth. For a conviction of the
truth of the last adverted to position, it is only necessary
to glance at the natures of the industrial pursuits other
than the cultivation of the soU, and compare them with
that of the latter- mentioned subject of man's industry.

First, as to commerce : by it no matter is produced ;
its ofiice is merely the barter of commodities. And,
whether the subject of this branch of industry be
between one country and another, or between individuals
in the same country, it is but an exchange of equivalents,
or a transaction in which a profit or gain to one indi-
vidual is compensated by a loss of equivalent amount to
another. Hence the office of commerce will be correctly
considered as being the distribution or circulation of
wealth of one country in another, or amongst individuals
of the same nation, and not as in any way contributing
to its existence or production. Next, as to manufactures :
there is no matter produced, by the exercise of this
branch of the industry of man, which did not previously
exist ; and its office will, when duly considered, be found
to be merely a conversion of material previously ex-
isting into a form of greater permanence or more definite
utility. In the conversion of cotton, lint, or wool, first
into a textile form, and then into shirts, coats, or other
garments, can the spinner, weaver, sempstress, or tailor
be said to have produced any matter that had not pre-
vious existence ? or that the result of the industry of
these artizans has been other than the conversion of the
material upon which their art has been exercised to a
form of more definite utility ? So the result of all other
kinds of manufactures may be pointed to, as being a mere
conversion of form, and no production of matter.
Then as to mining, which although prima facie has a
greater claim to the production of wealth than either
commerce or manufactures, yet, when duly considered,
will be found in nowise productive of matter not pre-
viously existing ; since every pound of coal, iron, lead,
or stone, and every ounce of gold or silver raised from the
bowels of the earth, previously existed there, and is, by the
abstraction, so much the less to come. Whilst, on the
other hand, and in distinction to the diff'erent other pur-
suits of industry above-named, labour bestowed in the
cultivation of the soil, either directly in tillage or more
indirectly in pastoral attention, aff"ords an increase of
matter in the form of reproductive vegetable and animal
existence, varying according to climate, fertility of soil,
and amount of labour bestowed, or science brought to
bear on the operation; and the surplus over the cost of
the production of such matter alone constitutes an
increase of real capital or wealth, exchangeable through

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THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

the medium of commerce into commoclitijs of a more
permanent nature, and convertible into more useful form
by the industry and skill of the manufacturer.

These observations apply to all civilized nations ; and
however true it may be, in an abstract sense, that the
cultivation of the soil is the onljr source of real wealth in
being the only source of matter, and therefore the
most important of industrial interests, yet both com-
merce and manufactures, the one by the exchange and
distribution of wealth, and the other by giving matter
produced by the cultivation of the soil a more perma-
nent or useful form, and also the mining interest, by
affording a vast amount for labour and capital, are, all
of them, practically and greatly conducive to the ag-
grandizement of nations, and to the convenience and
comfort of their population. Although the raising of
minerals from the bowels of the earth is evidently to
the impoverishment of posterity, inasmuch as these
treasures are nonproductive, yet past and present gene-
rations have realized from such enterprizes large
amounts of capital to be employed in other industrial
pursuits ; and the pre-eminence in the commerce and
manufactures of Britain is scarcely less indebted to the
realization of her mineral treasure, than to the accumu-
lation of capital derived from the cultivation of the soil.

It is not from any exclusive or peculiar advantages
possessed by the British Isles, that the unrivalled
national wealth, and the pre-eminence in commerce and
manufactures, have been attained, and in which Britain
continues prodigiously to increase ; but, on the con-
trary, many conditions inimical to such results exist,
amongst which may be enumerated the soil being less
naturally fertile than in many, or perhaps in most
parts of the world, the climate being suddenly variable
throughout the greatest part of the year, together with
acquired artificial habits rendering a much more expen-
sive diet and clothing necessary to support the health
and strength of the labouring population, than in most
other countries, with which the unparalleled amount of
a general and local taxation with which every branch of
industry is burdened combines to render the cost of
labour in Britain far beyond that in any other country,
except such as have been so recently planted that the
population is yet far below the demand for labour. On
the other hand, the only advantages in favour of the
unrivalled prosperity and accumulated wealth of Britain
is the seaboard position, and excellent quality of her
mineral fuel, and the convenience for transport of her
metallic treasures. These last-mentioned circumstances,
combined with the indomitable spirit of enterprize and
industry, and the intelligence and skill in the useful arts
of her people, have enabled her to surmount the ob-
stacles to prosperity, and overcome the difficulties of
circumstances above-mentioned, which have rendered
Britain the most wealthy and powerful nation that has
ever appeared on earth. But how far an unrestricted
import of foreign productions of the soil may be con-
ducive to the future prosperity of Britain, is a
question which it may be deemed unnecessary to discuss
here 3 yet, when it is considered that the short and ex-
tensively injured crop of the harvest of 1853 rendered

an importation from abroad of nearly half the estimated
consumption of breadstuffs of the population necessary
— during a period, too, in which this country has been
in actual warfare with a nation from which it has
hitherto derived a large portion of the deficiency in the
production of wheat of home-growth — and these im-
mense supplies having been, as it were, spontaneous, it
cannot be doubted that, under normal conditions of sea-
sons, the price of wheat will not reach a figure to remu-
nerate the grower in this country, unless under a very
great reduction in the cost of its production. It is, then,
the object of the present paper to suggest a more per-
fect and a more economical cultivation of the soil, to be
adop'ed generally throughout the United Kingdom, than
has hitherto been practised, if it be hoped that such pur-
suit will continue to be a profitable employment of na-
tive industry and capital, rather than that the purchase
of the productions of the soil from abroad should furnish
other nations with the capital necessary, and which they
only want, to become the rivals of Britain in her com-
merce and manufactures.

The cultivation of the soil may be classed under two
heads, namely, Agriculture, or the cultivation of the
field ; and Horticulture, or the cultivation of the gar-
den. In these the distinction consists of the greater
care and perfection of the latter to that of the former.

In the ordinary mode of field cultivation, in order
to maintain the fertility of the soil, it is necessary to
observe a rotation of crops of different habits of growth.
Thus, in all rotations, the growth of a plant deriving its
nutriment from the soil near to the surface, is alternated
with that of one seeking its nourishment at a greater
depth. This the gardener seldom attends to, his only
care being to crop his ground, irrespective of any habit
of growth, with such plants as will be most profitable,
or with such as may be most proper to the season when
the ground becomes vacant.

Before proceeding to discuss the necessity of a rota-
tion of crop in field culture, it will be well to review for
a moment the organization and physiology of plants, and
reflect for a while on the nature of the food by which
this branch of Nature's productions is nourished.
Plants, as in animals, have organs necessary to their
existence, performing like functions. All have roots,
stems, foliage, &c. ; and however these may be modi-
iaed in their forms in different tribes or families, all
perform piecisely similar functions in the maintenance
of vitality.

The soil in which terrestrial plants grow is not only
the medium of attachment or fixture to the earth, but
it also performs the same office for the plant that the
stomach does for the existence of an animal. It is in
the soil that the food of the plant is digested, and ren-
dered in a condition to become a part of its substance.

Some of the rootlets of a plant bear a close analogy
in their functions, in absorbing the digested matter from
the soil, to the valves in the mesentery, in absorbing the
digested matter of food from the stomach into the
venous circulation of an animal. Others of the rootlets
perform another and distinct function, presently to be
herein noticed.

THE FARMER S MAGAZINE.

323

The stem and branches are the substance of the plant,
aoBwering to the trunk and limbs of an animal.

The sap or digested food is taken up from the soil by
certain of the rootlets, which, it should be remarked,
can only be received in a state of perfect solution in
water. This sap or digested food then ascends through
the substance of the stem and branches in minute vessels,
and then through the leaves, which last-named organs of
a plant perform similar functions to the lungs of an ani-
mal in purifying, by contact with oxygen, the sap in its
passage through their minute and porous vessels. The
sap having become purified in the leaf, returns and
descends through the branches and stem, but by a
different system of vessels from which it ascended ; and
these being placed nearer the surface, the fluid becomes
assimilated to and forms an addition to the substance of
the plant. And lastly, any portion of the food supplied
by the soil, and not having become assimilated to the
plant, is expelled from the plant by certain rootlets into
the soil in the form of excrement or fences. In order to
comprehend a theory to be advanced hereinafter, of no
trifling importance in the economy of vegetable vitality,
the fact of plants discharging yi^ces should be borne in
mind.

The foregoing is a general description of the functions
of the organs of plants ; which, however, will be found
considerably modified in plants of different habits, but
which it is unnecessary to particularize, as the leading
principles of the general physiology already glanced at
are all that are necessary for the purposes of the present
paper.

So far as the knowledge of the food of plants extends,
it is considered to consist of carbon, nitrogen, and
certain earthy or saline substances ; all of which must
be rendered in a complete state of chemical solution in
water, by the action of the atmosphere and the agency
of electricity. The carbonaceous and nitrogenous
matters, which form the food of plants in the soil, are
in a great measure supplied by the application of extra-
neous vegetable and animal matter in a state of decom-
position, partly by rain-water and air, and partly by the
decomposition of the substance of vegetables and insects
produced on or in the soil. The earthy and saline
matters of the food of plants are supplied wholly or in
part by a slow and gradual solution of the constituents
of the soil, or they are added from extraneous sources
in the form of salts of lime, potash, soda, ammonia.
The measure of the natural fertility is the quantity of
the above-described substances completely soluble in
water, which a soil can furnish to the plants growing in
it ; therefore the power to absorb air and water is a
condition which soils must possess to supply nourish-
ment to vegetation.

It has previously herein been stated, that plants dis-
charge yjcces; it must now be remarked that the pre-
sence of these are highly deleterious, particularly to
plants of the same species ; hence one of the important
purposes of under-draining is to remove such a condi-
tion of the soil as the presence of the fcBces of plants.
Besides the cause just assigned for unhealthiness in
plaotB, great numbers of insects prey upon their juices.

Almost every species of plant has a peculiar insect in-
festing it, and injuring or destroying some organ essential
to its vitality. Most of the parasites referred to do not
require food for a year after their propagation ; hence
by not growing the same species of plant on the same
ground in succession, the insect, not finding its proper
food when it is required, perishes. Another source of
sterility is the presence of slightly soluble salts of iron
or other metalline substance in the soil inimical to vege-
tation ; which by being rendered soluble by the applica-
tion of an acid or alkali, and the soil being made
permeable to air and water, if such substance be not
rendered altogether innocuous by the treatment sug-
gested, they maybe removed from the reach of the roots
of plants by underdraining.

It has also been before remarked, that gardeners sel-
dom, in their operations, attend to the alternation of
crops ; this is because the cultivation of their ground is
more exact and perfect than in field culture. This might
also, in a great measure, if not wholly, be dispensed
with by the farmer, were he more closely to imitate in
his operations the cultivation of the garden. The ne-
cessity for an alternation of crops in agriculture arises
from an imperfect cultivation of the soil ; in the first
place, by not providing a sufficiently deep and com-
minuted tillage, by which the soil may, in addition to a
supply as manure of such matter as will aff'ord carbon
and nitrogen, absorb to its greatest extent water and air
to render it capable of affording a rapidly formed and
plentiful supply of food to plants ; and in the next
place, by draining, to remove in redundant water the
fcsces, and other matter noxious to the health of plants.
By redundant water must be understood such as is not
held by capillary attraction in the soil — such attraction
being a constant condition of natural fertility. These
conditions of the soil being attained, insects may be
destroyed by the application of a saline top-dressing,
which may also be serviceable as a fertilizer.

Another important advantage of deep field tillage is,
that green crops, such as potatoes, turnips, beet, carrot,
&c., may be grown on the flat surface instead of on
ridges. The latter-mentioned mode of cultivation, on
some kinds of soils, exposes the crops referred to, to a
destructive drought, and also occasions an unequal dis-
tribution of manure. It may also be remarked that
broad-leaved red clover is a field crop that frequently
fails, as is generally supposed from being grown without
a sufficient interval of time elapsing between one crop
and another. It may to a great extent be true that
most soils are unable to supply sufficient food at short
intervals for so gross feeding a plant as red clover ; but
the failure as frequently arises from the absence of a
sufficiently deep tillage for the habit of the growth of the
plant, the root of which strikes to a very great depth into
the soil — frequently to a foot and a-half. From the
repeated action of the plough in pressing and consoli-
dating the soil at a few inches only from the surface, the
roots of clover cannot descend in search of the food of the
plant, and must therefore, under such circumstances, be
likely to perish. Wherever the subsoil has been stirred,
subsequently to its having been thoroughly drained, red

324

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

clover has always been of luxuriant growth, and more
permanent than on shallow tilled soils.

After the foregoing introductory remarks, the sug-
gestions announced as the subject of this paper may
now be treated of more succinctly, and yet with greater
perspicuity, than without such preface.

The effect adverted to in a former part of this paper,
of an unrestricted trade in foreign corn in the British
markets, is one of deep interest to the community at
large—in the approach of a much greater dependence on
foreign supplies of food for the population than is con-
sistent with the general prosperity and independent
power of the nation ; and of yet more immediate im-
port to the proprietors of landed estates in Britain, to
whom nothing, under the circumstances, but a much
larger produce raised at less cost than at present prac-
tised in field-cultivation, can maintain the value of their
property.

As the basis of all other improvement in cultivation,
^^ thorough draining," in the fullest acceptation of the
term, must be resorted to. This operation must not be
merely a relief of the surface from water, but the induc-
tion of every drop of rain from the clouds and moisture
from the atmosphere, and then the complete and
effectual removal of redundant moisture from the sub-
soil not held by capillary attraction in the surface soil.
This being accomplished, deep tillage, by breaking up
the subsoil, must follow, to gain in time a deeper staple
of surface, thereby to increase the pasture of plants, and
render an alternating rotation of cropping dispensable ;
so that the soil may be occupied in the production of
such crops as may be most valuable and profitable to
the husbandman. Seeing that rotation of cropping is
not required in the accurate and efficient cultivation of
the garden, such can only be considered a succedaneum
for the imperfect cultivation of the field. This imper-
fection in tillage arises from the use of imperfect imple-
ments ; and which renders the expedient referred to
necessary, to recruit exhausted fertility in the soil.

In examining the construction of the implements in
general use for field cultivation, even in the present
times of improvement, the mind accustomed to reflect
on mechanical adaptation of machines for their intended
purposes cannot but discover extraordinary defects in
most, and in many an action directly opposite to that
best adapted to effect their intended purposes. In the
latter-noticed respect, we have an instance in the plough,
even in its best form, being as ill adapted an implement
for producing a perfect tillage as can well be conceived—
compressing the substance and closing the pores of the
surface of the soil in its action, and requiring the use of
other implements almost equally inefficient to undo
the effect of its operation. The whole of the latter re-
ferred to implements — whether they be harrows, culti-
vators, grubbers, or under any other name they may be
known — are much more expensive to work, and less
efficient in their operation than the price and quantity of
produce is likely to meet in the circumstances in which
Britain is placed. Expensive to work and inefficient in
its operation as the plough is, in the present state
towards perfection of implements and machines for field

cultivation, its use cannot be entirely dispensed with ;
but it may, in a great measure, be superseded by a ma-
chine for tillage introduced within the last twelve months.
The implement referred to is known as the " revolving
cultivator, or forking, or digging machine;" by which
all the tillage for ordinary field crops may be performed
by horse-power with the perfection of horticultural
operations, except one deep and thorough ploughing
during winter, previous to a green or root crop, the
raising of which for producing a supply of farm-yard
manure must ever be the main dependance of the hus-
bandman to maintain the fertility of the soil. The single
ploughing above mentioned having been given, one, two,
or three applications of the digging machine, followed
each time by a light horse-rake to gather the root weeds
brought to the surface by the machine, will effectually
clean and thoroughly prepare the soil for any green or
root crop. Perhaps under some circumstances, as in the
case of the land having through previous bad cultivation
become matted with couch grass, or strong land, after
having been saturated with wet, become baked by hot
sunshine, an application of a clod-crusher may be
necessary previous to the use of the machine in question ;
but under ordinary circumstances such additional labour
— trifling as it is — will not be needed, as the implement
itself reduces coarseness in land, as well as cleans and
acrate> it. Ons application of the implement is suffi-
cient to prepare land, after potatoes, for being drilled
with vi'heat ; or, after turnips, either fed off with sheep
or drawn, being drilled with barley or wheat : and in
both cases there will be experienced a considerable
saving of seed, from the superior tilth of the soil by the
action of the machine over that of every other descrip-
tion of implement. A further recommendation to the
use of the machine referred to, is, that it is not liable to
expose the soil to the impoverishing effects of dry spring
winds, as is frequently the case when land is worked by
the alternate use of the plough, harrow, and roll ; but,
whilst it effectually cleans the land and produces a light
and fine tilth, a due amount of sap or moisture is re-
tained in the soil.

Of implements of the description referred to above»
that manufactured by Matthew Gibson and Son, of
Newcastle-upon-Tyne, is as well adapted for its intended
purposes as can well be desired ; as it not only brings al
root weeds to the surface, without tearing them, to be
removed by a light horse-rake, but, by its action, it also
produces a peculiarly light and fine tilth ; and it may be
worked to any depth not exceeding twelve inches by only
four horses. The working- part of the implement con-
sists of eight strong cast-iron discs or naves revolving
independently of each other upon an iron bolt or axle ;
in each nave are ten strong iron teeth, pointed with
steel, and of a curved or cat-claw form ; and between
the naves and teeth are strong flat iron scrapers, with
their edges downwards, to I'emove soil, weeds, or stones
that might impede the action of the implement. The
implement is regulated as to its depth of working by a
pair of toothed quadrants and pinions, and by a tangent
screw and wheel moved by a winch handle. It is
mounted on an iron frame having three travelling Wheels,

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

325

one of which is a swivel-wheel in front for facility in
turning. It works over four feet six inches in breadth
at once ; and the price, at the present high prices of iron
and workmanship, is twenty-two pounds.

Having described the mode of operation, and the con-
struction of this most efficient implement of field-tillage,
it will now be proper to institute a comparison of the
cost of its working, with that of the implements that
have hitherto been most commonly in use in field culti-
vation.

Of several different modes in which the above-named
comparison may be made, first, let it be supposed that
the breadth of a plough furrow is nine inches, and the
breadth of ground worked at once by the digging
machine is four feet six inches, or six times the quan-
tity worked by the plough. To work each plough
requires two horses and a man ; whilst to work the
digging machine, in doing six times the extent, requires
only four horses, a man, and a boy ; the services of the
last named part of the force may, in most cases, be dis-
pensed with. On the supposition of both implements
working to the same depth, the digging machine does the
•work of six ploughs ; but the digging machine being as
easily worked to the depth of nine inches as at six, the
efficient work of the machine will thereby be increased
to that of nine ploughs. Besides the comparison thus
far entered into, tillage by the ploughs will require the
operation of harrows and rollers, the force to work which
cannot be taken at less than two additional pairs of
horses and two additional men ; against which may be
set one horse and one man working a horse- rake in
tillage with the digging machine-
Then in working an equal extent of land, a compari-
son of the cost will be as follows, namely :—

By Ploughs, Harrows, and Rolls. £ s. d.

The day's work of twenty-two horses at Ss 3 6 0

The day's work of eleven men at 33 , . . . 113 0

£4 19 0

By Digging Machine and Horse Rake.

The day's work of five horses at Ss 0 15 0

The day's work of two men at 3s 0 6 0

The day's work of one boy 0 1 0

£12 0

Difference in favour of tillage by the digging 1 o i y q

machine J

Another mode of comparing the economy of tillage by
the digging machine may be stated as follows, namely :

Omitting the cost of a thorough winter ploughing, as
being necessary in both, the subsequent dressings of the
land, for a green or root crop, by the plough, harrows,
and roll, under the most favourable circumstances, will
be two, and will cost at least twenty shillings per acre.

Two bouts of the digging machine, worked with four
horses, a man, and a boy, at the rate of six acres a day
for each bout, including a raking with a horse-rake
covering six feet in breadth, worked by a man and single

horse, and destroying the weeds after each bout, will not
cost more than six shillings per acre.

So that the advantages for each dressing in
favour of the digging machine may be stated at seven
shillings per acre; or more generally expressed, in a
proportion of ten to three.

It is not in the money cost alone in which the advan-
tage of tillage by the digging machine over that by the
ordinary implement is to be estimated ; but also in the
still more important particulars of despatch, less amount
of capital, implements, cattle, and wages, and increase of
produce from superiority of tilth.

The improvement of soils can only be considered as
being commenced by even the most perfect draining, as
the effect of the operation is seldom developed until the
subsoil has been broken ; and this being done, in the
first instance, without its being brought to the surface.
The object of this last-mentioned operation is to obtain
an extended pasture for plants ; and the rationale of
which may be thus described : The subsoil by being
broken up is rendered permeant to water and air ; and
when it consists of, or has clay in its composition, it
arrests nitrogenous and carbonaceous matter which pro-
bably has become, wholly or partially, indigestible in the
surface soil, but which, now being acted upon by the
great elements of vitality — air and ' water— in a new
earthy medium, becomes soluble, and the subsoil, which
had previously been barren, becomes at first sparingly
and afterwards abundantly tilled to supply nutriment to
vegetation. It is the deep and perfect tillage of horti-
culture, and the shallow and imperfect operations in
agriculture, that produces the striking difference of the
necessity of the alternate growth of plants of different
habits by the farmer, and such a trammel to skill and in-
dustry being dispensed with by the gardener.

Whoever has observed a gardener in the act of what is
known in garden operations as " bastard trenching"
has witnessed exactly what is required to be done in pro-
perly subsoiling a field. The implements best suited for
performing the operation in question is a fork ; and the
process in the use of the implement is to dig or break up
the bottom of a trench of the depth of the
surface soil. Such an implement, wielded by manual
exertion, would, however, be much too tardy in its
operation for field culture. An implement worked by
horses, on precisely the same principle of action as the
fork, has been in partial use for subsoiling fields in the
North of England for some years past. The implement
in question was originally invented by a shoe-maker, at
Prudhoe, in Northumberland, of the name of Robert
Hall, sometime about 1822 ; it was afterwards improved
by Mr. Joseph Laycock, of Lintz Hall, near Tanfield,
in the county of Durham ; and has lately been brought
to a most convenient form by Matthew Gibson and Son,
of Newcastle-upon-Tyne.

The implement in question, as improved by Gibson,
consists of a cast-iron hollow cylinder of two feet three
inches external diameter, nine inches long, and two
inches of substance or thickness, with a heavy nave or
bocs, and six spokes or arms. On the side or face of
the cylinder are fixed twelve pairs of very strong and

iVlr.

TH£ FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

slightly curved iron teelh pointed with steel, placed four
and a-half inches apart in the pairs, between which is
fixed a bar or scraper to dislodge any soil or other matter
which may become wedged between the teeth or prongs.
This working part revolves on an iron axle, and is
mounted on an iron frame, with a pair of travelling
wheels and a swivel wheel in front. The cylinder and
leading wheel roll in the bottom of a furrow or trench
opened by a common plough ; and by means of an appa-
ratus similar to that described for the digging machine,
the working cylinder is raised and lowered at pleasure,
and the gudgeons being fixed on cranks, the side travelling
wheels are raised clsar of the ground when the cylinder
is working in the bottom of the trench. The effect of
the operation of the machine is to break the hardest or
toughest subsoil to a depth of twelve inches below the
bottom of the trench ; and in so doing a trench of from
six to seven inches deep is nearly filled to the level of
the unploughed surface, by the increased volume or bulk
of the subsoil broken by the operation; the common
plough then comes round, and in opening another trench
for being subsoiled, covers the subsoil broken up by the
previous bout of the machine, and so the work proceeds
over the whole field at the rate of one acre per day with
one plough and one machine, worked with a force of five
horses, two men, and a lad, which may be estimated at
a cost of one pound two shillings per acre. Previous to
attempting the foregoing improvement, the land should
be previously thorough-drained, otherwise the opera-
tion would only form a basin for holding under- water, to
the greatest detriment to vegetation. The operation is
best performed in spring, across the direction of the
leading drains ; and it will only need being done once in
eight or ten years : the action of the digging machine
being worked occasionally an inch or so deeper than
ordinary will keep the top of the subsoil open in the
mean time.

The advantages of the implements recommended for
field cultivation in the foregoing pages consist partly in
their revolving motion and partly in their non-com-
pressing or lightening action on the soil. In respect to
the economy of the force required to work them, in com-
parison to implements acting by traction, the analogy of
a wheel carriage to a sledge is forcibly suggested.

A better construction of implements, and thereby a
deeper and more perfect tillage being adopted, it would
only then require the feeding of stock being carried to
the utmost point to increase the produce of soil at a
lessened expense ; and to render so important a branch
of rural economy as the last mentioned most available,
it will be necessary not only to provide shelter for stock,
but also for collecting and preparing manure. The fol-
lowing very interesting communication on the last
noticed subject by Lord Kinnaird appeared in a late
number of the "Journal of the Royal Agricultural
Society of England," entitled ''Influence of Shelter on
the Quality of Manure," ^hovs the great importance of
well-contrived offices to the economy of agriculture.

The noble reporter in the article referred to states,
that in " October, 1850, the yards were filled with 14
feeding bullocks, getting the same quality of food as

another of 18 tied up in the byre, and whose manure
was put out into an open court. In the open court were
12 young animals getting a full allowance of turnips.
The feeding beasts were all of the same age, viz., two off
rising three years old; fed twice a-day on turnips, of
which each got about 1 cwt., and once a-day steamed
swedes mixed with cut-chafF and 21bs. of barley-meal
with a little linseed, or 3 to 4 lbs. of oil-cake — of this
mess each got 22 lbs. Both layers and courts were
littered twice a-day, and, as near as we could judge, each
got the same allowance of straw, and all had a constant
supply of oat straw in their racks. From the foregoing
particulars it will be seen that the manure thus made
should have been equal. During the winter 1850-51 the
manure in the open yard was carted to the field selected
for the experiment, and put in one large heap of 200
loads well pressed down by the carts driving over it
when emptying, and then covered, top and sides, with
earth and road scrapings. It lay thus for a week before
using, when it got a turn over in the usual way. The
dung in the covered yard had been allowed to collect all
winter, was carried direct to the field, and put into drills,
without any turnips, being quite well enough made for
the crops intended. A field of 20 acres, of very equal
quality, being a rich loam lying on tlie trap, naturally
dry, and in good heart, exposed to the south, at an eleva-
tion of from 80 to 100 feet above the sea, was selected
for the experiment, and divided into two equal portions:
the Djanui'e applied was at the rate of 20 cart-loads per
acre. The whole field was planted with potatoes ; the
seed all of one kind, from one field (Regent's) ; planted
first and part of second week in April, All kinds
brairded well, and showed no difference till the first week
of July, when a decided superiority began to manifest
itself in the half of the field manured out of the covered
yards. The Shaws on the portion of the field manured
by the dung from the open courts began to decay by the
latter end of July, and by the second week in August
were nearly all gone, whilst the other portion of the
field still retained its strong dark-green. The crops
were taken up on the 1st to 4th of October, after two
separate portions in each half had been carefully
measured and weighed, the result being as follows : I
may mention that disease showed itself more especially
in the heavy crop —

UNCOVERED DUNG.

Tons, cwts, lbs. -
First measured 1 acre produced 7 6 8 of potatoes.
Second ditto ditto . . 7 18 99 ditto.

COVERED DUNG.

Tons. cwta. lbs.
First measured 1 acre produced 11 17 56 of potatoes.
Second ditto ditto.. 11 12 26 ditto.

As soon as possible after the potatoes were lifted, the
field was cleaned, ploughed, and (on the 22nd to 25th
of October) Fenton wheat was drilled in, at the rate of
3 bushels per acre. The same portions of each half
measured in the potato experiment were marked ofT for
trial with wheat. As soon as the weather suited in the
spring, the whole field got a dressing of 3 cwt. of Peru-
vian guano. During the winter very little difference was

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

327

apparent ; bnfc sboVtly after the application of the guano
the crop on that portion manured by the covered dung
took a decided lead, which it retained all the summer.
The whole field was cut 26th of August, 1852 ; the por-
tion manured by the uncovered dung being at lea3t four
days earlier than the other ; as before, the two sepa-
rate portions in each half of the field measured, cut, and
stooked separately. On the 4th of September each por-
tion was thrashed, the grain carefully measured, and the
straw weighed. The weather having been rather wet,
the grain soft, and not in good order, this will account
for the light weight per bushel. The light crop beat tlie
heavy crop in quality half a pound per bushel.

WHEAT ON UNCOVERED DUNG.

Produce in Weight per Produce in
Grain. Bush. Straw.

Acre. Bushs. Lbs. Lbs. Stones (of 221bs.)

First 41 19 614 152

Second .... 42 38 61^ 160

WHEAT ON COVERED DUNG.

Produce in Weight per Produce in
Grain. Bush. Straw.

Acre. Bushs. Lbs. Lbs. Stones (of 221bs.)

First 55 5 61 220

Second .... 53 47 61 210

In the foregoing statement it is not mentioned whether
the acre was statute or the Scottish customary acre,
equal to 1 "2 7 statute ; from the quantity of the crops,
however, the latter may be inferred : but this is imma-
terial, as the proportion in either case is the same. It
shows most distinctly the advantage of dung being col-
lected under cover ; and the additional produce from
the use of dung made in boxes or covered yards over
that collected in open courts would soon defray the cost

of boxes or covered yards in which to keep cattle. Of
the fact of fattening-cattle thriving more rapidly in
boxes than in any other mode of confinement the writer
of this article can offer the strongest testimony, from
having watched the efl'ect for several years past ; and he
does not hesitate to proclaim his conviction that, tenants
having leases would find it to their decided advantage to
put up boxes at their own expense in cases where land-
lords might be so blind to their own interests as to re-
fuse to pri)vide so important an accommodation to the
occupier of the land, and so fruitful a source of improve-
ment of the value of their property. Boxes for a tem-
porary purpose may be built at a trifling expense, the
principal cost being lining the pits with brick. It should
be remarked that, in making cattle boxes, the pits should
be rendered water-tight, to retain the whole of the
urine ; also protected from rain-water from above, and
land-springs from beneath. It is from not attending to
these particulars that boxes have been in some instances
condemned.

With a deeper and more perfect cultivation of the
soil, with implements of improved construction, and a
better economy of farm- yard manure, collected and
prepared under cover, owners of landed property may
still hope to maintain the value of their estates, tenants
to reap the reward due to industry and the application
of capital to the cultivation of the soil, and the commu-
nity at large to enjoy the advantages of abundant pro-
duce of our native fields, notwithstanding the competi-
tion in our markets of untaxed America, and of the
low-priced labour of the continent of Europe.

Neivcastle-upon- Tyne,
August \-ith, 1854.

A NEW SUBSTITUTE FOR THE POTATO.

The potatoe's nose is out of joint. The " lazy
root " has so oftea turned out badly, and so over-
come all the efforts of cultivators to produce a good
crop, that year after year only adds to its disrepu-
table character. Even in Ireland, where all the
peasantry had their faith (and their existence)
pinned to the potato, it is sadly losing caste. This
season again we hear that the crop is failing in
various parts of Britain j friends both from the
north and the south bring us doleful tidings.

Ever since the first failures of the potato from
disease, agriculturists of the higher class, who
consider the general advancement of their art
as a part of their business, have been looking
about for some crop suitable as a substitute
for the potato. Many have been brought into
notice from time to time. A species of Oxalis,
with tuberous roots, at one time excited great
attention, and had its portrait ostentatiously given
in agricultural books as the production from which
the farmer was destined to reap . a richer than a

golden harvest. That dog had its day. Then
came the Arracacha, a South American umbellifer-
ous plant, which was taken in hand by the French
agriculturists, especially by M. Boussingault of
Beechelbronne, from whom we had the honour to
receive some interesting communications on the
subject. But the Arracacha was found unsuitable
to the climate of Britain ; and, although still culti-
vated with some measure of success in France and
in the French possessions of South America, whei'e
it has long been known, it casts no ray of hope on
the prospects of the Scotch, the English, or the
Irish farmer.

The tuberous-rooted crowfoot {Ranunculus Fi~
carta) was likewise brought into notice, as an
economical plant suited, in some measure, for farm
culture, its roots being rich in fecula. In addition
to which, and many others that need not be here
detailed, the extended cultivation of crops already
known to British farming was very judiciously
recommended.

z 2

3-28

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

Still, however, we are without the true philoso-
pher's stone, a substitute for the potato.

One of the most valuable suggestions that have
been made in connection with this subject, is one
that has just emanated from M. Decaisne and Dr.
Lindley. It is for journals specially devoted to
such investigations to work out the details ; and to
journals like our own, addressed to the general
public, to announce the ultimate results. We
think that in the present instance some satisfactory
results have been arrived at, and therefore, without
entering upon a detailed discussion, we lay them
before our readers.

The plant i-ecommended by M. Decaisne is a
a Chinese yam, very diflferent from the East and
West Indian yams hitherto known in this country.
Like them, it belongs to the genus Dioscorea, but
has been introduced, it appears, under an erroneous
specific title. M. Decaisne's exjjeriments lead to the
conclusion that it will speedily become a plant of
real agricultural importance in France, and Pro-
fessor Lindley sees no reason (judging from its
geographical distribution, and its affinity to our
hedge-bryony, which it much resembles) why it
should not suit our climate.

The yam in question has been introduced from
Shanghai, under the erroneous name of Dioscorea
japonica. "If," says M. Decaisne, "a new plant
is to have a chance of becoming useful in rural
economy, it must fulfil certain conditions, in the
absence of which its cultivation cannot be profit-
able. In the first place, it must have been domes-
ticated in some measure, and must suit the climate j
moreover, it must in a few months, go through all the
stages of development, so as not to interfere wih the
ordinary and regular course of cropping ; and finally,
its produce must have a market value in one form
or another. If the plant is intended for the food
of man, it is also indispensable that it shall not
offend the taste or the culinary habits of the persons
among whom it is introduced. To this may be
added, that almost all the old perennial plants
of the kitchen garden have been abandoned in
favour of annuals, wherever the latter could be
found with similar properties : thus, Lathyrus tu-
berosus, Sedum Telephium, and Cirsium oleraceum,
have given way before potatoes, spinage, and the
like. Now, the Chinese yam satisfies every one of
these conditions. It has been domesticated from
time immemorial; it is perfectly hardy in the climate
of France ; its root is bulky, rich in nutritive matter,
eatable when raw, easily cooked either by boiling
or roasting, and then having no other taste than
that of flour (fecule). It is as much a ready-made
bread as the potato : it is better than the batatas, or
sweet potato. Gardeners should therefore provide
themselves with the new arrival, and try experi-

ments with it in the different climates and soils of
France. If they bring to their task, which is of
great public importance, the requisite amount of
perseverance and intelligence, I have a firm belief
that the potato yam (Igname Batatas), will, like
its predecessor, the potato, make many a fortune,
and more especially alleviate the distress of the
lower classes of the people."

The plant is described as having large perennial
rhizomes or roots, the top end of which is as thick
as the fist, but tapering downwards to the thickness
ofthe finger, descending perpendicularly to the depth
of a yard, if the soil is loose enough to allow them.
The haulm is annual, as thick as a goose-quill,
cylindrical, turning from right to left, two yards
long, violet with small whitish specks. Leaves
opposite, heart-shaped, and triangular upon purple
stalks. When not artificially supported, the stems
trail on the ground and take root freely at the joints.
The root is]^of the colour of coffee, as that beverage
is usually used with milk. Under the skin is a white
opaline, very friable, slightly milky, cellular mass,
filled with flour, which softens and dries in cooking
till it acquires the taste and quality of a potato, " for
which it might be mistaken." There are in general
two or three rhizomes (roots) at a plant.

In China this yam is extensively cultivated. M.
Montigny, who sent it to Paris from Shanghai,
under the name of Sain-In, reports it to be highly
productive, the Chinese consuming it as largely as
the potato in Europe.

The following is the mode of culture, as described
by Dr. Lindley : — For propagation the smallest
roots are set apart, and pitted to keep them from
frost. In the spring they are taken out, and planted
in furrows, pretty near each other, in well-prepared
ground. They soon sprout and form prostrate
stems, which are made into cuttings as soon as they
are six feet long. As soon as the cuttings are
ready, a field is worked into ridges, along each of
which is formed a small furrow, in which the pieces
of the stem are laid down and covered with a little
earth, the leaves being left bare. If rainy weather
follows, the cuttings strike immediately; if dry,
they must be watered till they do strike. In 15 or 20
days the roots begin to form, and at the same time
lateral branches appear, which are carefully removed
from time to time, to facilitate the sweUing of the roots.

Now that our freedom of intercourse with the
Chinese is daily increasing, we may anticipate the
introduction from their country of some useful
agricultural crops unknown to our farmers, as well
as novelties in the other arts and processes in
which the Chinese are employed ; this will be a
substantial return for the beneficial influences
which European civilization and enlightenment will
spread amongst them.— The Commonwealth.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

329

EXPERIMENTS ON THE USE OF COD-LIVER OIL IN FATTENING ANIMALS.

Dr. Pollock communicates the following article
to the " Lancet :"—

" In a course of a careful observation of the
effects of cod-liver oil, it occurred to me that experi-
ments might with great advantage be performed,
both on the healthy human subject and on cattle,
with a view to ascertaining its positive powers of
fattening, when the assimilating functions are in a
normal condition. With the use of this agent in
arresting the progress of chronic disease we are
becoming daily more familiar, and have already run
into an extreme which might have been anticipated,
in expecting extravagant results and an universality
of application, which we have not as yet discovered
to be the property of any remedy which we possess.
It were likely to prove a corrective to these extremes,
were we to study, with minute care and observation,
the physiological effects of our favourite drug, and
rather to permit our theories explanatory of its
action to take their rise from experiments, than to
develop themselves from the chemical composition
of the oil, which contains ingredients sufficiently
numerous to puzzle the most ingenious chemist in
his attempts to apportion to each its effects on the
animal economy.

" The points to be ascertained with precision
seem to be — first, whether the deposition of fat in
healthy animals can be increased by the adminis-
tration of cod-liver oil ; and, secondly, the limits
within which its action is manifested, a considera-
tion which includes defining the quantity which
when taken is assimilated into healthy fat, and in
excess of which disease is generated.

"Leaving the more general and highly-interesting
questions regarding the bearing of these points on
disease for future observations, I will shortly state
what little practical information I can offer towards
an elucidation of these questions.

" About two years ago, when on a visit to an
intelligent friend residing on his farm in Essex,
and whose attention has been actively directed to
the practical application of science to agriculture, it
occurred to me to suggest to him the use of cod-
liver oil in fattening cattle, stating my belief that it
might be possible to obtain, by its administration,
a decided saving in the cost of feeding, I proposed
that he should separate off such of his stock as were
to be the subjects of experiment, and that the
weight of the animals, the price obtained, and the
outlay for food, should be carefully noted, in com-
parison with others fed in the ordinary manner.
The variety of my friend's occupations prevented

his giving to my plan the minute attention which
could have been desired, and the results of which
I had hoped before this to publish ; but the follow-
ing letter from him contains matter of much
interest, and, if I mistake not, foundation for future
experiment and investigation : —

" ' You asked me to write you some particulars of
my experiments upon fattening animals with cod-
oil. 1 will not attempt to give you any very mi-
nute details, but will endeavour to place before you
a general view of what we have done ; and as last
winter I carried my plans out more fully than the
preceding one, I will particularly speak of my opera-
tions at that time. And first, of pigs. I kept,
upon an average, three hundred, and killed from
twenty to thirty per week, mostly porkers, from five
to fifteen stone weight. The experiments were
made by dividing off twenty pigs, and weighing
each lot, keeping the meal separate, giving one lot
two ounces of oil per diem, and both as much meal
as they liked. I found the pigs taking the oil, ate
less meal, weighed the heaviest, and made the most
money per stone in the London market, the fat
being firm and white. Subsequently I have found
that for small pigs one ounce of oil will do better.
To larger pigs I have given a quarter of a pint per
diem, and to small pigs also; but I always found I
lost money and credit for good pork when the
larger quantity was given ; and when killed, the fat
was yellow, and the flesh tasted fishy. From the
weekly examination of so many pigs, I have con-
cluded that the oil in no case cured a pig troubled
with lung disease ; but that, when given in small
quantities, it was profitable, as the animal fatted
upon a less amount of food, the oil tending to pro-
duce fat quickly. My experiments have led me to
conclude, that if given in a quantity which cannot
be digested, it is then passed over the system in the
shape of bile, so as to cause the yellow appearance
in the fat. The farmer in such a case would lose
money, as my man did for me, believing that if so
small a quantity were good, more would be better.
" ' The result with sheep has been more satisfac-
tory; with one ounce per day the fat has been
beautifully white, and the flesh has been compared
to short-cake, being light and easy of digestion.
The lot of eighty gave general satisfaction to the
consumers; but the butchers complained of lighter
weight than the healthy well-to-do appearance of the
sheep led them to expect.

" * As regards bullocks. Last year ten short-
horns took each from a quarter of a pint to thre(?

330

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

quarters of a pint claWy, and paid better than any-
other bullocks : these v/ere sold for London. The
opinion of all vv'ho saw them was, that it was ira-
possiljle for any beasts to go so v/ell as they did in
the usual way with so little food. They commenced
with the quarter pint, and ended with three quarters.
I fancied, on the whole, that they did better on half
a pint each per diem. I purchased for an experi-
ment this year, eight Herefords, even or regular
beasts. They are divided into two lots, one of
which has a quarter of a pint of oil daily, and all
live alike.

" ' The bullocks have the oil mixed up with m^eal
and chaiF; the pigs with dry meal; the sheep have
split beans soaked in oil. The commonest cod-oil
costs from 2s. 8c/. to 3s. per gallon. I have tried
sperm-oil against the cod-oil, and prefer the latter.
I should add, that this year I only use an ounce
for sheep and pigs, and four ounces per day for
each bullock. The relief to a broken-winded horse
from the administration of cod-oil is very soon
perceptible. I shall be most happy at any time to
write to you further upon this subject.

Yours, &c.,

A. W.'

"1. It will be observed that in the above exper-

iments on pigs, bullocks, and sheep, a greater
degree of fattening was obtained from a less
amount of food when cod-oil was used.

" 2. That in all the animals there seemed to be a
decided limit to the quantity which could be di-
gested ; that for pigs being two ounces, the smaller
thriving best on one ounce, and the larger hogs
being over-fed on four ounces per diem. Sheep
took an ounce, and bullocks a quarter to three-
quarters of a pint, and 'paid better than any
other bullocks j' but in all these cases, a much
larger quantity was tried experimentally; and it
invariably disagreed, producing derangement of
digestion, and ' causing a yellow appearance of the
fat, and a fishy taste.' This was remarked by the
butcher who purchased the animals, and who, at
my request, was not informed of the peculiar mode
of fattening which was adopted. Whether the
above experiments may induce farmers to adopt
cod-oil asa judicious article of food, more efficacious
and cheaper for fattening their stock than those
ordinarily used, I will not presume to decide; but
1 offer the foregoing results to the profession, per-
suaded of their importance and interest in studying
the application and physiological action of oils on
the animal system."

ATMOSPHERIC CONDITION.

Under this title I introduce the subject of an article
which appeared in the Daily News of Sept. 4th lust.,
" On Cholera: its Cause and Cure," by A. MayheWi
The leading principle of this article I mean now itnpar-
tia'Iy to investigate ; and in order to do the writer and
his object justice, it will be necessary to borrov/ from
several of his paragraphs, avoiding prolixity, while ob-
serving the utmost fidelity. The remarks appended to
each quotation will bear upon the chemical hypothesis
of the writer, without alluding to the disease itself, its
cause, or general medical treatment : —

Extracts 1 and 2. — " In the year 1849, several
scientific gentlemen, anxious to clear up the mystery
envolopiny: the cause of cholera, commenced a philo-
sophic inquiry into the circumstances attendant upon
this epidemy. Amongst these was my brother, Mr.
Henry INIayhew, who, although by profession an
author, is also an able chemist. The letters on the
subject of cholera, which appeared in the Morning
Chronicle, under the signature of 'Anti-Zymosis,'
were written by him."

" Whenever this pestilence has raged among us, it
has been found that the air is stronyly charged with a
vast quantity of what chemists call ' o?.oue.' With
respect to the nature of this body, Professor Schoen-
bein asserts that it is a compound of oxygen analogous
to the peroxide of hydrogen (hydrogen 1, 2^Zws 2
oxygen),"

Remarks. — How long this term, ozone, has been in
vogue, or by whom among modern chemists it was ori-
ginated, I am not prepared to say. However, I tind it
not in Brande's Manual, 1839, or in that of the late
Dr. George Fownes, 1844. At page 110 of the latter,
peroxide of hydrogen is described as an " exceedingly
interesting substance, of very difficult preparation."
The solution may be concentrated under the air-pump
receiver, until it acquires the specilic gravity of 1'45.
In this state it presents the aspect of a colourless, trans-
parent, inodorous liquid, possessing remarkable bleach-
ing powers. It is very prone to decomposition ; the
least elevation of temperature causes effervescence, due
to the escape of oxygen gas. Near 212" it is decom-
posed with explosive violence. Peroxide of hydrogen
contains exactly twice as much oxygen as water" — i. e.,
16 parts (in lieu of 8) to 1 part of hydrogen.

Ozone is now an accredited term — not used, however,
as applicable to the liquid pero>;ire, but as an elastic
gas; and in that condition, I was assured, a few days
since had been detected in the atmosphere, even during
the then splendid and very dry weather. Watery
vapour is always present in the atmosphere ; and as
electricity performs an important rele therein, it is prob-
able that a portion of the binoxide of hydrogen may have
been evolved, and become electrically united with that
vapour.

Extract 3. — " Cholera has always been preceded and

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

331

succeeded by inHuenza and catarrhal complaints. This
would seem to agree with Faraday's statement, that an
atmosphere strongly charged with ozone renders respira-
tion difficult, causes unpleasant sensations, and produces
catarrhal effects, for it acts powerfully on the mucous
membranes." I cannot follow the writer in his long dis-
sertations on the subject of those membranes, and tliere-
fore pass on to the observation that " it is a curious fact
that the disease in the potato invariably makes its ap-
pearance contemporaneously with the cholera. We are
told by Faraday that ozone produces oxidizing effects
upon most organic compounds. It is fair to presume
that the starch in the potato is attacked by the ozone of
the atmosphere."

These extracts comprise some bold assertions, the
correctness of which we may be allowed to question. Is
it true that cliolera has always been preceded by in-
fluenza ? Was the last heavy visitation of that febrile
affection, in the winter of 1847-8, in any degree coinci-
dent with cholei'a ? On the other hand, conversely, did
any catarrhal affection worthy the name of influenza
precede or follow the cholera of 1849, or the epidemic
now prevailing ? Is it not a known and admitted fact
that, with a few severe exceptions (as colds and coughs),
town and country had been greatly exempt from catar-
rhal affections ?

In reference to the potato disease as connected with
cholera, where was that epidemic in 1845-6-7-8-50-51-
52 and '53 ? in all which years the potato plant and
tubers were more or less affected ? In the present sea-
son, wherein cholera prevails, the potato remains in
comparative immunity.

Extract 4. — " Ozone is destroyed by heat. The cho-
lera disappeared suddenly from Berlin after a fire, which
was consuming many hours. Within the few last weeks,
at Varna, where hundreds of our soldiers were daily
dying, the cholera had been overcome by heat. Scarcely
have we read of the incendiary fires in that town, than
we are informed that the epidemy is rapidly disappear-
ing, and the deaths daily decreasing."

If heat destroys ozone, and moisture, as asserted, be
a most powerful oxidizer, " showery weather being in-
variably the precursor of the most numerous and violent
attacks of this disease,"' how does it happen that during
the great solar heats and scorched aridity of the three
weeks ending on the loLh of Ssptember inst., the
cholera has prevailed with great virulence in the infected
metropolitan districts and elsewhere ?

Extract 5. — "To destroy this body (ozone) the
easiest method is to burn sulphur. When sulphur is
burned in the open air, sulphurous acid gas is the sole
product. This gas has a strong attraction for oxygen ;
it unites with it whenever moisture is present, and forms
sulphuric acid. Therefore, the sulphurous acid gene-
rated by the burning of sulphur in choloraic districts
would destroy the ozone in the atmosphere by depriving
it of its oxygen. ' Ozone,' says Faraday, ' instantly trans-
forms sulphurous and nitrous acids into sulphuric and
nitric acid.' "

Cases in proof cited. — " A lady who was seized with
cramps and vomiting was placed in a room whtre an at-

mosphere of sulphurous acid was judiciously maintained ;
in ten minutes all pain had left her, the sickness had
ceased, andshe felt in perfect health."

" A lad was seized with purging, cramps, and vomit-
ing. I made him go to bed, and burned sulphur in the
room till the air was strongly impregnated with the gas.
In half an hour the lad had fallen asleep, and the next
morning awoke perfectly restored."

I do not desire to impugn the theory — the great desi-
deratum is to find the curative power of sulphurous acid
established by unquestionable fact. Chemically viewed,
ozone can be deprived of its one plus equivalent of
oxygen by sulphurous acid, which is 1 minus. Sulphurous
acid can be obtained with great facility, not only by the
simple combustion of sulphur on matches, or in a garden
saucer, but also by moistening powdered charcoal (in a
clean and dry Florence flask, or small retort) with oil of
vitriol (sulphuric acid), applying the heat of a common
mortarlight or spiritlamp. Water absorbs a great volume
of this invisible gas ; and thus, with a little careful mani-
pulation with retort and receiver, the latter containing a
portion of water, a very pungent liquid can be obtained
in a short space of time. Great caution in any case is in-
dicated to the operator, as otherwise his own respiratory
organs might be most seriously inconvenienced.

Croydon, Sept. 14, 1854. J. Towers.

GAS TAR IN HORTICULTURE.— A discovery, which
is likely to be of great advantage to agriculture, has just been
repotted to the Agficultural Society at Clermont (Oise). A
gardener, whose frames and hothouse required painting,
decided on making them black, ps likely to attract the heat
better, and from a principle of economy he made use of gas tsr
instead of black paint. The work was performed during the
winter, and on the appro.ich of spring the gardener was sur-
prised to find that all the spiders and insects which usually in-
festfcd his hothouse had disappeared, and also that a vine,
which for the last two years had so fallen off that he had in-
tended to replace it by another, had acquired fresh force and
vigour, and gave every sign of producing a large crop of grapes.
He afterwards used the same substance to the posts and
trellis-works which supported the trees in the open air, and
met with the same result, all the caterpillars and other
insects completely disappearing. It is said that similar ex-
periments Lave been made in some of the vineyards of the
Gironde with similar reaulta. — Galignani's Messenger.

NEW WEATHER-GLASS.— For some years I have been
in the habit of watching the condition of the gum in my wife's
camphor bottle, which stands iu our bed-room ; and when not
disturbed, it makes a capital weather-glass. It answers my
purpose as well as a barometer that would cost me twenty-five
or fifty dollars. When there is to be a change of weather, from
fair to windy or wet, the thin flakes of tlie gum will rise up ;
and sometimes, when there was to be a great storm, I have seen
them at the top. When they settle down clearly at tiie
bottom, then we are sure of grand weather. Any farmer who
will watch his wife's camphor bottle for a season, will never
have occasion to watch the birds, or locusts, orauts, for indica-
tions of a change in the weather, — Literary Journal,

333

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

THE CHARACTERISTICS OF WHEAT.

By an old Norfolk Farmer.

Amongst the various productions of the earth which
constitute the food of man, there is, in every part of the
world, one staple article pre-eminently adapted, from
the conditions of soil, climate, and geographical position
by which it is bound, to universal use, and declared by
common consent to be the "staff of life." Thus, in
ti'opical regions, we find rice and maize assuming this
character ; whilst in the colder portions of the temperate
zone, the more hardy cereal productions form the sus-
tenance of the great bulk of the people : amongst these,
the grain which is to be the subject of this paper stands
foremost in importance and in beneficial influence upon
the moral and physical condition of man.

In treating on this subject, we propose to consider
the cereal wheat, in respect to its physiological, agri-
cultural, commercial, and social characteristics. These
general heads we shall take in course ; and beginning
with the first, we propose describing the physical cha-
racteristics of wheat, in regard to its origin, constitution,
chemical composition, and the effects of soil, climate, and
cultivation in the modification of its component parts.

The Tnticimi family of plants, to which wheat be-
longs, is an exceedingly numerous one, and we may add
ancient, too ; for we learn from history, that it has
engaged the attention of mankind for at least four
thousand years. Under this generic name is included
a great variety of grasses, as well as of grain, properly
so called. It is with this latter only we have now to
do ; and we find that Boussingault mentions four dis-
tinct species, as representing all the other varieties,
namely, 1st, Triticum Hyburnum ; 2ad, Triticum M%-
turnum; 3rd, Triticum Spelter; 4th, Triticum Monocon.
These four patriarchs of the Triticum races — if such,
indeed, they be — have produced as great a variety of
tribes as the four sons of Noah, and, like them, have
spread themselves over nearly the whole surface of the
earth. The extraordinary transformations, however,
which take place in this plant, from local or accidental
causes, have induced the belief that the four species
named above, have proceeded from one original stock,
preserved by our great progenitor, Noah, from the de-
vastation of the flood. These transformations are pro-
duced by changes, either of soil or climate, as well as by
intermixtures of stock, and they require but little time
to effect them : thus, for instance, the white Cosh wheat
of Kent, which was introduced into Norfolk about the
year 1780, was found to change its character entirely in
a very few years, so that both the cosh and grain became
red, like the old Norfolk red wheat. This appears to
have been effected, by bringing the seed from off a strong
clay, to a light mixed, or a gravelly soil. We shall have
occasion to refer more particularly to such changes in a
future portion of this paper.

A good deal has been written at different periods, re-
specting the origin of wheat; and it has been the opinion
of many s^cieatific men, that the grain we now cultivate

is an improved type of the Triiicoides, a species of
grass which, under the names of JEgilops Ovata and
Triarisiata, is found in abundance in Sicily and the
South of France. M. Fabre, a celebrated French
naturalist, has recently made a series of experiments
upon the seeds of this plant ; these seeds, although
small, have all the outward form and appearance of
wheat ; and by carefully cultivating them for twelve con-
secutive years, the perseverance of M. Fabre was re-
warded by the production of perfect wheat, not much
different in character, from that which is grown in the
South of France.

Tradition assigns to the valley of Enna, in Sicily, the
honour of having been the birthplace of Ceres, the
goddess of harvest, and the native country of wheat.
The success of the experiments of M. Fabre renders it
probable that, in ancient times, some spirited cultivator
may have improved, by similar means, the natural grasses
of the country to the production of wheat, which,
according to the custom of heathen nations, has been
personified and canonised, in the mythology of the
national creed.

The result of M. Fabre's experiments corresponds
with that of a similar, though less protracted, one by the
late Sir Joseph Bankes, at the beginning of the present
century, which is recorded in the Philosophical Trans-
actions of the time. It appears, that Sir Joseph had
received a jjaper of grass seeds, labelled " hill wheat,"
which, as it was accompanied with no account of the
precise spot from whence it was brought, he concluded
came from the high grounds at the back of the plains of
Bengal, or from the mountains of the Indian peninsula.
These seeds he directed to be sown in his garden, and,
to his surprise, the product of the very first year was
spring wheat, as near as possible in character, to what
is commonly grown in England. In referring to this
case, M. Humboldt states that the seeds were brought
from the mountains of Boutan, and that it was probable,
it would prove to be the primitive type of the Solanum,
and cultivated cereal. Certainly, both these experi-
ments go far to prove the identity of these grasses with
some types of the cultivated grain, although we much
question, whether it be right to assign to the entire
family, such an origin ; nor is it possible now to deter-
mine, whether the "hill wheat" and the " jEgilops
ovata" are not rather degenerated types of the original,
produced by inadaptation of soil and climate, than the
original itself. Certain it is, that the most ancient
history extant speaks of a species of wheat of a bulk and
character, that renders it fit for the food of man. We
have reason to believe that the Triticum Composilum,
or Egyptian wheat, now cultivated in that country and
other parts of the east, is precisely the same as that
grown in the time of Joseph, three thousand five hun-
dred years ago ; nor is the " seven-eared" plant unknown
in this country, and it is both a standing testimony of

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

333

the truth of the sacred history, and of the antiquity of
the cereal wheat.

It is true, that the corn mentioned in the history of
Joseph, is not there stated to be wheat ; but there is a
previous incidental mention made of wheat harvest, in
an earlier period of Jacob's life, about six hundred years
after the flood, which proves that that grain was then
cultivated ; and the analogy between the seven-eared
corn of that period and the seven-eared (or "logger-
head") Egyptian wheat of the present day, is too striking
to be rejected as evidence in this case. We might also
refer to the wheat said to have been found in mummy
cases, which is identical with the modern Egyptian
wheat, and which, if the account be authentic of its
origin, proves still further our position ; but as doubts
are now thrown upon it, we shall lay no stress on the
evidence it aiFords, only remarking that it is quite
possible for the vegetating principle to have been pre-
served an indefinite period, enveloped, as the grain was,
in cerecloths, which hermetically excluded the atmos-
pheric air, and so prevented decomposition.

The experiments, however, of M. Fabre and Sir Joseph
Bankes, are of far more interest to the naturalist, than of
direct importance or utility to tlie agriculturist. Sir
Joseph does not state the amount of produce he ob-
tained from the " hill wheat; but M. Fabre, after twelve
years of perseverance in careful cultivation, and with
every advantage for the production of a large return,
was rewarded at last, with not more than six or eight
fold — a result which certainly would not induce a jorrtc^tcaZ
farmer to adopt his experiments, or employ the pro-
duct for seed. We may, however, derive from them a
valuable principle, by the adoption of which we may
improve those species of grain we now possess. If by
careful and persevering culture, we can raise the character
of grass seeds of the Triticum species, to that of actual
wheat, what would not be effected, were the same atten-
tion paid to the wheat itself ? An experiment of this
kind is recorded by Rees, which is so instructive that
we beg leave to relate it.

It appears, that a farmer living at Bradfield in Suffolk,
in passing through a wheat field when the corn was in
full bloom, was struck with the different hues presented
by the flowers. At first, he supposed that it might arise
from the different stages of forwardness of the plant ;
but, on a closer inspection and consideration, he con-
cluded that they were indications of specific differences
in the quality of the wheat. Under this conviction, he
selected some ears of different colours, and particularly
marked eleven distinct numbers, the characteristic
qualities of which, he minutely noted down, as well as
their appearance in the field. These he gathered when
ripe, and kept separate, and at the proper season, planted
them in his garden two consecutive years. Under this
treatment, they preserved the same characteristic dif-
ference as was observed in the field. It is unnecessary
to go through all the details of the experiment ; but the
result was, that three of the eleven numbers were pre-
served, their produce being in excess of the others, to
the extent of from six to eight bushels per acre, and
the grain was three pounds per bushel heavier.

This case shows the importance of noticing those
" sports," as they are called by gardeners, in order to
improve the quality and increase the quantity of the
produce of the field, by which a real and immediate
benefit may be secured, far more certainly, than by en-
deavouring to discover affinities and descents, which,
after all, can be of no practical avail to us. We beg,
however, to observe that our remarks apply to the prac-
tical farmer, and not to the naturalist and man of science.
It is strictly in the province of the latter to investigate
these things, for the purpose of classification ; and the
scientific world are much indebted to M. Fabre, for the
elaborate and protracted experiment he has instituted.
But with regard to the source from whence our own
cereals — and especially wheat — were derived, we have
reason to believe, that the latter was introduced by the
Romans, at the time of the Conquest. History records,
that soon after that event, large quantities of wheat were
exported from Britain to the continent of Europe,
although previously, the land was cultivated in the rudest
manner, and without any idea of extending it beyond
the wants of the community. It is not at all impro-
bable, that our old Lammas wheat (the Triticum Hybur-
num) is the present type of the original grain, cultivated
from the earliest period of British husbandry, being so
well adapted to a large portion of the soil of this country,
as well as of continental Europe.

We shall next speak of the physical constitution of the
wheat plant ; and would remark, by the way, the evident
proof of design in the arrangement by which a plant or
grain, so extensively conducive to the welfare of man,
should be so capable of adapting itself, not only to the
extremes of latitude, from the equator to the verge of the
Arctic circle in our hemisphere, but also to every vicis-
situde of temperature. Thus, the wheat of Spain was
introduced into her transatlantic possessions on both
sides of the line, soon after the conquest of America,
where it at once accommodated itself to the climate of
the high table land of the Cordilleras, and was cultivated
with a success known only to tropical regions. With
very slovenly tillage, the farmers of Mexico and Vene-
zuela reap from thirty to fifty-fold. It must, however,
be stated, that cereals are not cultivated for a crop of
grain, in Mexico, at a lower elevation than from 2,630 to
2,950 feet above the level of the sea ; although, in the
Caraccas, in the latitude of 10° 13' north, fine crops
are obtained at an elevation of 1,640 feet. It is re-
markable, that the wheat grown on the sea-board round
the city of Xalapa in Mexico, although upwards of four
thousand feet above the level of the sea, produces abund-
ance of straw and foliage, but not a single car of corn.
It is cultivated solely as forage for cattle.*

The mean temperature of 61° or 66° Fahr. is consi-
dered the most favourable for the production of wheat.
In the Cordilleras, it is found that above this mean, the
grain becomes smaller, and the bran thicker; whilst below

* Wfieat was introduced into Mexico in 1530, by a slave of
Cortez, who found a few grains in some rice. It was taken to
Lima in Peru by Maria d'Escobar, a Spanish lady, about the
year 15<i0. At Quito, the first grains were sown by the monks
of the Convent of St. Francis, — Himboldt.

634

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

it, ihe contrary is the case, and tlie grain abounds more
in gluten. Apart, however, altogether from geographical
iafluences, there is perhaps no plant — certainly, no cereal
that we are acquainted with, — that will bear bo well, in
the earlier stages of iis growth, the vicissitudes of heat
and cold, wet and drought, without injury, as wheat.
We have seen excellent crops reaped, both after a winter
of thirteen weeks' unintermitted frost, and after one so
mild as not once to produce ice that would bear a duck.
Excessive rains will not destroy it, provided the land is
properly drained ; nor will drought, such as occurred in
1822, when scarcely a shower fell from the month of
April to harvest, (which commenced that year early in
July) prevent success. That harvest was one of the
most abundant ever known, and the quality of the grain
was equally good. The greatest atmospheric enemies
to wheat are, late frosts, when the ear is shooting, and
permanent surface-water. We have seen a promising
field of wheat so completely cut off by two frosty nights
on the 2nd and 3rd of June, that the produce was not
two bushels per acre — the only grain saved being in those
parts of the ear that were still covered. And, with
respect to surface-water, the remedy lies in the farmers'
own power by draining, which is the Alpha and Omega
of good husbandry.

Those who are acquainted only with the mild winters
and florid vegetation of the southern part of the king-
dom, can form no idea of the effect of frost in more
severe climates, upon the wheat plant. Take a Devon-
shire farmer, for instance, into a late-sown field of wheat,
in the northern or eastern counties, in the month of
April, after a severe winter, succeeded by those cutting
" north-easters" fresh from the German Ocean, vphich
sweep for weeks over the land, with a severity piercing
to the very marrow of both man and beast, and we are
certain he would hardly guess what was lying under the
surface. Not a particle of vegetation is to be seen, to in-
dicate the existence of a plant, that is to reward the
farmer for a year's toil. This state of things sometimes
continues even later, according to the old doggrel rhymes
of the country :

" The farmer went to his wheat in May,
A.nd came ri;^ht sorrowful away :
He went to his wheat again in June,
And came away singing a merry tune."

Under the influence even of this severity of climate,
the wheat is unceasingly " gathering" * as it is termed,
and acquiring that hardihood and strength at the root,
which, as soon as the warm spring weather sets in, sends
up its branched foliage as if by magic. We recollect an
instance of a field of wheat belonging to a neighbour of
ours, which continued so long in this dormant state,
that, despairing of its recovery, the owner determined to
plough it up, and sow the land with barley. He ac-
cordingly put in the ploughs ; but when he had turned
up half the field, he thought he perceived indication? o.
life in the roots, that induced him to let the other half
remain, hoping at least, or perhaps at most, to reap

I'.alf a crop. To his great astonishment, however, it
proved the best crop on his farm ; for the land being
'■in good heart," the plants tillered abundantly, and
at harvest yielded upwards of faur quarters per acre.

Provided, therefore, that the conditions necessary to
success, are complied with in its cultivation, the wheat
plant is one that is less affected by atmospheric contin-
gencies, up to a certain period of its growth, than any
other cereal the farmer has to do with. What those
conditions are, must be considered in the following sec-
tions of this essay.

No. II.

'^ Tillering,

The next branch of this subject for consideration is
the chemical composition of wheat, which is perhaps the
most important, though hitherto least understood part of
it. Such is the intimate connection between the com-
ponent parts of plants and those of the soil in which
they grow, that agriculture can never be a perfectly
rational pursuit until chemistry is made the baeis of its
operations. There v/as a time when the farmer might
go blind-folded to his work, committing his seed to the
soil, abundantly dressed with manure, without knowing
or inquiring whether the relative conditions of these
three elements were so adapted to each other, as to
ensure a successful result ; and when harvest came round,
wondering how it was, that after so much care and
expense, a very moderate return was the issue. We
remember one of this class, who, being reasoned with,
on the advantages of attending to such adaptation,
replied bluntly — " You may talk of your chemistry and
stuff" as long as you please, but muck's the man, after
all!"

The day has gone by wlien a knowledge of the prin-
ciples of vegetable life may be confined to men of science,
to botanists and chemists, to be experimented upon —
not for practical ends, but as a source of scientific
amusement for their leisure hours. Henceforth the
practical farmer must learn to analyze his grain, his soil,
and his manure, if he wishes to make the most of his
business, and meet the vigorous competition to which
he is liable.

This is neither so Utopian, nor so difficult a matter as
a plain farmer would be apt to imagine; and, by way of
illustration, we will state a case which came under our
own notice a few years ago. An eminent tradesman,
living in Loudon, married the daughter of a farmer, who
had held a farm of about 300 acres in a county ad-
joining Middlesex for many years, and had acquired
considerable property. This farmer died, and left the
farm to his widow, who, finding, after two or three years,
that she was losing money, consulted her son-in-law, as
to the propriety of relinquishing the concern. Tlie
latter, on looking over the accounts, found, that up to
the time of the husband's death, the farm had paid well ;
and he saw no good reason vphy it should not still do so,
under proper management. He therefore agreed to take
it himself, had the stock and everything valued over to
him, and, from being an eminent gun-maker, commenced
agriculturist,

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

Knowing literally nothing of farming, he began
reading all the books on the subject that fell in his way.
He had not read fai', before he found that a knowledge
of chemiatry lay at the foundation of good husbandry.
He therefore procured the services of an inteUigent
working-chemist, whom ha took into his house for some
months, and from whom he learned the processes of
analyzing, the names of chemical substances, &c., and, in
fact, made himself a good practical chemist for agricul-
tural purposes. He then applied this knowledge in the
cultivation of every field on his farm, adapting his
manures to the quality of tiie soil, and the nature of the
grain he intended to put into it. The result was, that
his neighbours, who began by ridiculing the " Cockney
farmer," and who allowed him three years at the utmost,
" to make his fortune and retire,'' were glad, at the end
of that period, to go to him for advice about their crops.
His own crops of corn, hay, and roots, were the admira-
tion of the whole country, and he sold the whole of his
v/heat for seed-corn at several shillings above the market
price of the day. And at the end of the fourth year, on
making up his account, he found a balance in favour of
the farm of twelve hundred pounds, as the profit of that
year. Such were the results of science npplied to agri-
culture ; and by its means, without any previous know-
ledge of the subject, this gentleman stood as eminent
amongst his neighbours, in that profession, as he pre-
viously had been as a tradesman.

The peculiar property of wheat, which distinguishes it
from all other cereals, is the large proportion of gluten
it contains ; the predominance of which renders it so
much better adapted to the human constitution, as food,
than any other vegetable production. The late Sir H.
Davy speaks of gluten as one of the most nutritious of
vegetable substances ; and, in fact, wheaten flour is more
or less valuable to the baker, housekeeper, and con-
sumer, just in pvoportion to the quantity of gluten it
contains, which varies materially in different kinds and
qualities of wheat. This difference is produced by the
varied conditions of soil, climate, and manure ; and it
becomes a question of great importance to the farmer,
what modifications of these elements ai'e most favourable
to the production of this substance in the largest pro-
portion. A practical farmer, some years ago, analyzed
the soils of two fields, on which he grew wheat from the
same seed, the one producing a perfectly clean, and the
other a smutty, sample. The only difference he dis-
coved, consisted in the first containing a large proportion
of phosphate of lime, in which the latter was deficient.
He therefore inferred, that this deficiency was the sole
cause of the smut. " For when the grain has arrived at
the stage of its growth, at which it would require the
starch and animal gluten to be added, in order to perfect
its formation, if it should not find the proper materials
for producing therj in the soil, or the roots of the plants
are defective in those parts which would select those
materials and convey tliem to the plant, a decline in the
crop will instantly ensue."

This reasoning corresponds with the results of an ex-
periment mentioned by Boussingault, in which different
manures were applied to ttie same soil and the same

seed-wheat, and in which the proportion of gluteu ob-
tained ranged from 12 to 35.1 percent., as shown in
the following table: —

Manure. Gluteu. Starch. „ ^^^'^ ^°,^

Soluble matter.

1 Ilnroan urine .... 35.1 .... 39.3 .... 25.6

2 Bullock's blood.... 34.2 .... 41.3 .... 25.5

3 Nifht soil 331 .... 41.4 .... 25.5

4 Sheep's duDg 32.9 42.3 24.3

5 Goat's ditto 32.9 42.4 24,7

6 Ilorae's ditto 13.7 61.6 24.7

7 Pigeon's ditto .... 12.2 .... 63.2 .... 24 6

3 Cow's ditto 12.0 .... G2 3 25.7

9 No maaurs 9.2 66.7 24.1

Note. — These experiments were made by M. Hermbatadt,
aud reported by Bonasingault.

Here we find that urine and night soil, which abound
in phosphatesj produced respectively 36.1 and 33.1;
whilst horse, pigeon, and cow's dung yielded only 13.7,
12.2, and 12 per cent, of gluten ; and where no manure
was applied, only 9.2 per cent. It should also be ob-
served, that the battle was between the gluten and
starch, there being little more than one per cent, dif-
ference in the other components. For, whilst the first
produced nearly equal quantities of starch and gluten-
say, 35.1 gluten to 39.3 starch, in the ninth, the pro-
portion of starch is more than seven times that of
gluten, or 9.2 gluten to 66.7 starch.

The influence of climate, in producing specific modi-
fications in the character of wheat, is, perhaps, still
greater than that of soil and manure. We have stated
that the range of latitude under which that grain is cul-
tivated in the northern hemisphere, extends from the
equator to the verge of the arctic circle — Archangel
being the most northern part from whence wheat is
obtained. Within this range, the zone lying between
the 30th and GOth degrees of latitude produces the moBt
mellow and easily-manufactured wheat. Southward of
this belt, the grain becomes large, ricey, thin-skinned,
and dry ; whilst northward, the berry gradually grows
smaller, and the bran or skin thicker, rendering it of very
inferior value in commerce; yet the flour is of a fair
colour, if properly .ground and dressed, and contains a
large proportion of gluten, aud i'3 consequently useful in
mixing with weaker flour. Thus, whilst the English
Lammas wheat contains only 18.7 of gluten, the coarse
Russian yields 22.1. On the other baud, the hard
wheats grown in Spain, Egypt, and other countries bor-
dering on the Meiliterranean, yield a huge quantity of
fliiur, containing an abundance of gluten ; but the colour
is too yellow, to admit of its being u,sed by the London
bakers, except in very small proportions, or in th.e place
of cones. It requires to be wetted also, before grinding,
by which the bran is more eflectually separated, and the
Hour itself is improved. The annexed table of analyses
will illustrate the comparative excellencies of different
kinds of wheat, in the proportion of gluten they contain.
The azote, though specified separately, is again included
in the gluteii.

336

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

TABLE SHOWING THE COMPARATIVE QUALITIES OF WHEAT GROWN IN DIFFERENT

COUNTRIES.

Country where Grown.

Cape of Good Hope. . . .

Beugal

English Lammas

Pyrenees

Smyrna

Middlesex

St. Helena, Giant

Polish

Egyptian, red

Kussian

Dantzic

Meccan, bearded

Sicilian, No. 1

United States. America

Taganrog

Sicilian, No. 2

English, spring

African

Scotch

Irish, No. 1

Irish, No. 2 ,

Mummy, Irish ,

Mildewed, English . . . .

Blighted, ditto

Barbary

Irish Flour

Meccan

Norfolk Barley

Specific.
Character.

Yellow, large
White, hard. .
Yellow, fine . .
Well formed
White, hard. .

Hard, large . .

Small, hard . .

Coarse

Tender

Long-awned

Small, hard ,
Small, red. . ,

Grey, hard

Small, brown

In 100 Parts of
Wheat.

Bran.

190
21-5
14-0
20-5
190

25-0

15-0
18-0
240
13-2

23-5
19-5

21-5

32-0

Flour.

81-0
71-5
860
79-5
81-0

75-0

85-0
820
76-0

76-5
80-5

75-5

68.0

In 100 Parts of
Flour.

Azote.

292
2-97
300
3-04
318

3-35

3-45
3'53
3-63
3-63

3-84
3-89

4-25

371

Gluten.

18.2
18-6
18-7
19.0
19.9
20-0
20-9
21-0
21-6
221
227
227
24-0
23-5
24-1
24-3
25-5
265

5-5
70
7-0
7-5

15-3
20-0
230
90
23-8

Starch,
Sugar,
Gum,
and
Water.

81-8
81-4
81-8
81 -0
80-1
800
791
790
78-4
77-9
77-3
77-3
760
76-5
75-9
757
74-5
73-5

57-30
5675
5675
56-25

84-7
80-0
74-0
725
76-2

94-0

Colour and Quality
of the Flour.

White, very soft.
Ditto ditto.
Very white, very soft.
White, very soft.
Ditto, coarse.

Yellow, coarse.

Yellow, strong.
Ditto, soft.
White, soft.

White, soft.
Yellow, coarse.

Yellow, coarse.

These were analyzed by
Professor Davy, of the
Royal Dublin Society,
and exhibit only the
starch and gluten.

Analyzed by Dr. Davy.
Yellow, coarse.

It will be seen by this table that the Scotch and Irish
wheats contain less of gluten, and more of starch, than
any other kind, and are consequently of more value than
any other to the starch makers ; and this has been con-
firmed to us by persons in that trade, who state that they
invariably obtain a greater quantity of starch from Irish
wheat than from any other. This will also account for
the low estimation in which Irish flour is held by the
London bakers. Formerly a large quantity of it was
imported into England ; but, although the colour was
excellent, its want of strength prevented it from being
ia favour on the London market.

There is one species of wheat the flour from which is
certainly the most valuable of any to the baker, as
the following statement will show : Some years ago a
flour factor in London received a small consignment of
flour from a Norfolk miller. In the letter of consign-
ment it was stated that the Talavera wheat, from which
it was made, had caught the rain, and had a little
sprouted in the sheaf, and therefore that the consignee
must be careful in disposing of it. He accordingly sent
a small quantity to a baker, who used it alone, when,
to the astonishment of both baker and factor, it pro-
duced one hundred and one 4:1b. loaves to the sack ;
and precisely the same result was obtained by other
bakers to whom the flour was sent. The Talavera wheat
was first introduced into England during the Peninsular
War, and was for some years a good deal cultivated in
the eastern counties ; but its extreme liability to sprout

in harvesting excited a prejudice against it, and it is in
a great measure, we believe, gone out of cultivation.
Yet it is peculiarly adapted to the dry, gravelly soil of
Norfolk, and part of Suffolk ; and is certainly invalua-
ble to the miller and baker.

The inferences we may draw from the foregoing ob-
servations are — first, that the origin of wheat is of too
high antiquity to be traced, and that it is doubtful whether
any of our present species of that grain are an improved
type of the Triticum grasses, or whether the latter are
not rather a degenerated type of the former ; secondly,
that the constitution of wheat adapts itself to all lati-
tudes below the arctic circle, but that it cannot be pro-
fitably caltivated. f 07- grai?i under a higher mean tempe-
rature than 66 degs. Fahr., and that the zone lying
between the 30th and 60th degs. of latitude is the most
favourable portion of the globe for its cultivation ;
thirdly, that whilst the chemical components of all kinds
of wheat are the same, the proportions in which they
exist vary with the variations of soil, climate, manure,
and cultivation ; whilst its value to the consumer as an
article of food, is greater or less, in proportion to the
quantity of gluten contained in the flour.

No. III.

Before entering upon the subject of this paper, it may
be proper to remark, that it is not here intended to lay
down any system of agriculture, in regard either to the

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

337

cultivation of this grain in particular, or of the general
practice. Such a mode of treating the subject would be
entirely out of place, and would open too wide a iield
of discussion and inquiry for a newspaper essay of this
kind. At the same time, there are certain fixed prin-
ciples, the observance of which, in this, as well as in
every other branch of practical knowledge, is essential
to success ; and it is with these alone we have now to
do, or, in the words of an excellent writer on the same
subject, " to point out a few requisites, without which a
grain of wheat cannot be brought to maturity in any
soil, climate, or situation."

The question, then, for consideration is, the agricul-
tural characteristics or peculiarities of wheat, and those
conditions, the observance of which, is necessary to its
successful cultivation. These may all be comprised
under the several heads of soil, manure, and seed.

Speaking of the relative connexion between soil and
plants. Sir Robert Kane, in his justly-celebrated work
on the " Industrial Resources of Ireland," after stating
that the number of elements subsisting in plants and
animals is sixteen, goes on to say : " Of these, the atmo-
sphere and water may be considered as capable of sup-
plying four — namely, carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, and
oxygen ; and these are they which constitute by far the
greatest portion of all organic substances. The remain-
ing elements, though usually present in much smaller
quantities, are not less essential to the healthy existence
of the plant, and must be obtained from the soil on
which the plant is cultivated. The soil must, therefore,
be highly complex in constitution, in order that it may
yield those elements. If it do not naturally contain
them, they must be artificially supplied, in order that
the plant may grow. Each crop, removing from the
soil quantities of those materials, diminishes its power
of producing future crops ; and hence, to sustain the
fertility of any soil, the exhausting tendencies of its
vegetation must be compensated for, by suitable addi-
tions. In these few simple propositions is contained
the clue to the most refined and successful systems of
agriculture ; and the objects of the philosophical agri-
culturist, as well as the most effective means of practi-
cally advancing husbandry, consist, first, in studying
the composition of the soil; and second, in studying
the action of plants upon it."

These observations contain an invaluable principle,
which, if acted upon, would, so far at least as human
agency is concerned, prevent failure and ensure good
crops.

Experience has shown that the soil best suited to
most, if not all, kinds of wheat, is a sandy clay, or a
clayey loam, such as constitutes a considerable portion of
the land in Kent, Essex, and Suffolk, and some of the
midland counties. I have specified the three first, be-
cause they furnish Mark Lane with the best and strong-
est qualities of wheat. Portions of land of a similar
soil, are undoubtedly to be met with in most of the
counties throughout the kingdom. Thus, in the Flegg
and Blofield hundreds, in Norfolk, north and west of
Yarmouth, " the raging fertility of the soil" (as Mar-
shall expresses it) is such, that it requires checking by

repeated cropping with beans and wheat alternately,
rather than continual renewing by artificial means.
Lincolnshire also possesses land of a similar fertility;
and in Ireland there are large tracts which, previous to
the famine, produced commonly, from eighteen to
twenty barrels of twenty stones each (or eleven quarters)
per Irish acre. Such soils may be compared with the
virgin soils in the valleys of the Ohio and Mississippi, in
the United States, where wheat has been grown for
twenty-five consecutive years on the same land, without
either failure or exhaustion.

We recollect one remarkable instance of this kind of
soil, with which we accidentally became acquainted, and
the particulars of which were as follows. In the parish
of Dagnalls, in Essex, there is a tract of land which was
formerly an extensive bend of the river Thames, but had
been gradually filled up (beyond the memory of man)
with the rich deposit of the stream ; probably the out-
pourings of the London sewers. About the year 1812,
the tithes of this parish were valued by a surveyor, we
believe, for a new rector ; and the gentleman who made
the valuation, favoured us with the following account.
The tract in question, had never been known to be under
any other crop than wheat, with which it was sown every
year without intermission. In riding along the furrows,
the surveyor could see nothing but the sky above him,
and the wheat standing like tall reeds on each side ; and
he valued the tithes at 39s. 6d. per acre, which he as-
sured us was below their real value, it being just at the
hottest period of the war, and both corn and straw being
at war-prices. This account is not uninstructive at the
present time, when the question of liquid manure, and
more especially that from the London sewerage, is en-
gaging the attention of the agriculturist and the political
economist.

It is evident that, in such cases as the foregoing, and
especially the last, the elements required for the success-
ful cultivation of wheat must be inherent in the soil, to
afford such splendid results. But it is equally palpable,
that such instances are rare in this country, and that
soils are not often found so well adapted for wheat. It
is notorious that a very large proportion of that grain
grown in England, is the produce of land which with-
out artificial aid would yield but little wheat, and that
of a very inferior description. As example is the best
illustration of theory, we will here give an instance, on a
large scale, of what may be done with an ungenial soil.

There is a district in Norfolk, forty miles in extent,
reaching from the town of Holt to that of Lynn, and
embracing in its sweep, the far-famed Holkham estate,
belonging to the Earl of Leicester. A large proportion
of this tract consists of a light gravelly soil, with some
wet clay, and a strip, here and there, of better land. Up
to the period when the late Earl (then Thomas W. Coke,
Esq,,) succeeded to the Holkham property, which may
now be between 80 and 90 years ago, this whole district,
with very trifling exception, was considered incapable of
growing wheat ; and rye, barley, and oats, were the usual
and most valuable produce, Holkham itself possessed a
very indiff"erent soil. When the lady who was after-
wards the first Mrs. Coke, was once on a visit at the

338

^HE FARMER'S xMAGAZINE.

Marquis Townsliend's, at Rainhain, one of the Lady
Townshends was rallying her on her want of taste, in
going to reside in such a barren wilderness. " I once
spent a few days there myself," said the satirical lady ;
" and I declare, I saw only one blade of grass the whole
time, snd there were two half-starved rabbits fighting
for it."

Such was Holkham at that period. Every agricul-
turist, not only in England, but throughout the world,
knows or has heard what it has since become j and under
the influence and example of the "father of agriculture,"
as Mr. Coke has justly been called, both Holkham and
the whole of that once ungenial district, have been ren-
dered capable of growing as good average crops of wheat,
as any land in the kingdom, and certainly export as
much wheat and flour to London and other ports as any
district. The means by which this change has been
effected, are precisely those recommended by Sir R-
Kane in the passage above quoted. The natural want of
clay in the gravelly soil, to give it consistency, and fur-
nish the plant with mechanical support, and a calcareous
mixture to furnish the phosphates and carbonates, were
supplied from the subsoil, v^hich in most cases contained
them in abundance. And thus, soils which separately,
were useless, have served, when brought together, to
produce splendid results.

We shall now refer to a case of an opposite kind, in
which land of the best description has, by the neglect of
the principle laid down by Sir R. Kane, become almost
barren, certainly not yielding produce enough to pay for
the cultivation. We have mentioned tracts of land in
Ireland, which, up to the appearance of the potato dis-
ease, produced 20 barrels of wheat per Irish acre. Such,
for instance, were a large portion of the lands in Tipperary
and Westmeath, where, previous to the period referred
to, the farmers invariably dressed their land with lime
for the wheat crop. So much, however, had the loss of
the potato crop and its fatal consequences, impoverished
them, that they were no longer able to purchase lime for
that purpose. The result was, that in four years, the
land became so exhausted, that not more than from five
to eight barrels per acre, instead of twenty, could be ob-
tained, and that of very inferior quality. Coupling with
this disuse of lime-dressing, the exportation of nearly all
the cattle-bones, both of the living and the slaughtered
animals, grown in Ii"eland, by which an immense amount
of phosphates taken from the land are irretrievably lost,
instead of being returned as manure, and we have a satis-
factory reason for the decrease of the produce of wheat
in Ireland.

It is not a little remarkable, that Sir R. Kane, in his
work before referred to, which was written in 1844,
pointed out the probability of this failure of the wheat
crop, in consequence of this large exportation of cattle-
bones from Ireland. "It is to be feared," says he,
" that before very long, considerable loss will accrue to
the corn and other food crops of this country, from the
deprivation of the soil, of this essential ingredient( bones).
The cattle exported from Ireland carry out in their
bones, a vast quantity of phosphoric acid derived from
the soil. Of the cattle whose flesh is eaten in the

country, the bones form a considerable article of export ;
as the attention of our a^ric^lturists has not yet been
awakened generally to the importance of restoring Ihem
to the soil. Let it be considered, that in one pound of
bones there is the phosphoric acid belonging to 28
pounds of wheat, or of 250 pounds of potatoes ; that
this phosphoric acid is indispensable to the healthy
growth of the plants, and of the animals by which they
are consumed ; and hence will appear the vital im-
portance to agriculture, of preserving-, as far as possible,
these valuable materials, and returning them to the soil"
(Ind. Res., p. 271).

There is the more need of the application of lime or
some other substance containing the phosphates, as a
dressing for wheat in Ireland, from the fact, that a very
large proportion of the surface soil of that country is
wholly destitute of a calcareous mixture. This is the
case even with the great limestone plain, which extends
over several of the counties, the upper soil of which,
having bef^n analyzed by several eminent chemists, not
a particle of lima or calcsreous matter could be discovered
in it, the whole being composed of the debris of other
rocks, brought thither by some convulsion of nature, and
now overlying the immense limestone-beds below,
without mixing therewith. It will be doubly incumbent
on those English and Scotch farmers who take land in
Ireland, to have the surface soil tested by a chemist, in
order to know what is wanted ; for without a calcareous
mixture in the soil, a good crop of wheat cannot be ob-
tained.

The value of marl and clay — the former to all soils,
and the latter to light and mixed soils —is well under-
stood in this country. But it is not so well considered
that they have both a chemical and a mechanical efl"ect
upon the plant. Marl acts chemically by imparting the
phosphates and carbonates which are required to perfect
the grain by the addition of the gluten, and mechani-
cally by ameliorating the soil, and presenting to the
roots a softer and more agreeable medium to strike into,
being of a peculiarly mellow nature. Clay acts chemi-
cally, by yielding the silica and alumina required for the
perfect formation of the straw, and mechanically by
giving strength and solidity to the soil, upon which the
root has a firmer hold, and consequently the plant a
better support. We shall have occasion to explain and
illustrate this principle more at large by-and-bye.

Wheat, as is well known, requires a firm soil and a
close surface ; on which account, it has been thought,
that the cultivation of the potato is not favourable to it,
because it opens the soil too much, and renders the
wheat plant more liable to the root-fall. The rationale
of this disease, so destructive to the late-sown wheat, is
very simple. If the soil be loose and friable, the late
autumnal rains cause it to swell, which raises the roots
of the young plant. Then comes the frost, which fixes
the soil and the roots in the position the rain left them
in, and at the same time, evaporates the moisture. When
the thaw takes place, the particles of soil being no longer
held in suspension by the frost, separate and fall, leaving
the roots bare and exposed to the atmospheric and other
casualties to which obstructed vegetation is liable. This

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

}39

is the theory of the root-falling disease, the best pre-
ventive of which is claying and early sowing ; and the
most effectual cure, the heavy roller immediately the
frost is out of the ground ; or, better still, a flock of
sheep driven repeatedly over the field. This latter is a
very common practice, and is, under any circumstances,
beneficial to the wheat crop.

No. IV.

In our last paper on this subject we endeavoured to
show the importance of attending to the connexion be-
tween soil and plants, and the necessity of being ac-
quainted with the component parts of each, in order to
be able to adapt the former to the nature and require-
ments of the latter. Our present section of it will treat
of manures, to which the same principles are applicable,
and between which and plants the same relative con-
nexion subsists. And it will be seen that all arguments
on this subject lead directly to one conclusion — that,
without a chemical knowledge of the three elements of
production, soil, manure, and seed, the agriculturist is
working in a great measure in the dark, with a proba-
bility of being right and a possibility of being wrong.
Experience, it is true, may do much for him ; but it
cannot provide against those occult contingencies which
are continually occurring to affect the success of his
operations, and of which he is in perfect ignorance
without a knowledge of chemistry ; in which case, a
failure, whether in whole or in part, is ascribed to any-
thing rather than the real cause.

We have in some measure already anticipated this
branch of the subject ; but it is of so much vital im-
portance to success in agriculture to know how to adapt
the three elements of soil, manure, and seed to each
other, in the most efficient manner, that we do not
hesitate to enlarge upon it.

According to Boussingault, wheat consists of gluten,
starch, sugar, gum, water, and bran. The two first of these
constitute a very large proportion — say from 65 to 75
per cent. — of the whole, and are themselves compound
substances. According to Gay Lussac, they are respec-
tively composed of the following ingredients :

Gluten.

Starch.

52.883

23.872

7.540

15.705

43.55

Hydrogen

49.68

Oxygen

6.77

Azote

00.0

100.000

100.00

Now, although, as Sir R. Kane has stated in the quo-
tation given from his work in our last paper, these four
ingredients are supplied to plants direct from the atmo-
sphere, experience and reason show that those manures
which either in themselves contain the largest portion of
them, or which most stimulate the plant to imbibe
them from the atmosphere, must be the most proper for
any crop or plant the perfection of which depends upon
the proportion of gluten or starch, or both. Whilst,
therefore, in manuring for wheat, due regard must be
paid to furnishing a supply of all the constituents.

however small the proportions, it is evident that thos^
which contribute most largely to the supply and pro-
duction of gluten and starch ought greatly to prepon-
derate, and that on this excess of them in the soil de-
pend the largeness of the product and the perfection of
the grain.

It is to the preponderance of these materials, and as
supplying in abundance both carbonates and phosphates,
that limestone (whether burnt or merely reduced to
powder mechanically) , chalk, and marl, in any or all
their forms of application, and animal substances, owe
their value as dressings or manures for wheat. Cattle-
bones may be said to contain the most essential ingre-
dients in a highly-condensed form, both for promoting
the health of the wheat-plant and for the formation of
that substance (gluten) which constitutes the value of
the grain as an article of food.

We have spoken already of the action of clay and
marl as adjuncts and restoratives of the soil. It remains
for us to point out more minutely the part they per-
form, both as direct manures and as stimulants. The
following analyses, the two first of which are of Irish
marl and clay, analyzed by Sir R. Kane, and the third,
of Norwich marl, analyzed by Professor Davy ex-^ressly
for the writer, will serve to show the value and the use
of these materials :

TAKEN FROM TIMAHOE BOG.*

Marl.

Clay.

64
24
12

Silica

Alumina

100

TAKEN FROM WESTMEATH BOGS.

Blue

Clay.

Marl.

Limestone
Clay.

Carbonate of lime

Carbonate of magnesia ....
Alumina

87.3
0.0
1.1
0.9

10.7

44.4

1.4

27.2

Silica

27.0

Bog stuff

0.0

100

100.0

TAKEN FROM MOUSHOLD HEATH, NEAR NORWICH.

Matl.

Carbonate of lime and magnesia 80

Other substances not specified 20

100
In these specimens we see the large proportion of
carbonates in the marl — so requisite for perfecting the
grain ; and of silica and alumina in the clay — equally
essential in the formation of the straw. In either case,
these earths not only perform important functions in the
renovation and solidification of the soil when worn out
or natui-ally defective, but by their stimulating qualities
strengthen the plants and assist them in the attraction
and absorption of inorganic substances from the atmo-

* Nearly all (if not quite all) the bogs in Ireland are under-
laid with strata of clay or marl, or both ; but they are very
Uttle used.

340

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

sphere ; and thus they form, whilst they last, a constant
magazine, from whence the plants are supplied with
fresh nutriment.

Marl, however, according to Boussingault, contains an
additional fertilizing principle. From several analyses
made by M. Payen, azoteous matters were detected in
it ; which he ascribes to the circumstance of marl being
composed of debris of the organic remains of animals
and plants. " It is possible," he observes, " that this
azotic matter contributes to the very extraordinary fer-
tilizing action produced by the marls of certain locali-
ties. In the department of Isere in France, for instance,
the application of a sandy marl, containing from 30 to
60 per cent, only of carbonate of lime, has doubled the
produce of an arid soil. Previously it had only produced
three for one of the seed sown of rye ; but afterwards
the farmer obtained eight for one of luheat, and the
dressing lasted twelve years."

Similar beneficial effects have constantly been derived
from the application of many of the marls in England.
The Norwich marl, for instance, is well known for its
fertilizing effects on the light lands around that city ;
and it is even fetched at a great expense — fifty miles by
water, with a short land carriage at each end. Some of
this marl is found to contain as much as 90 per cent, of
carbon ; whilst its peculiarly unctuous quality greatly
softens the acrid asperities of a gravelly soil.

With respect to other native ma;!ares, we have already
(in our second paper) given the results of their applica-
tion for wheat, in the production of gluten and starch.
There are, however, one or two observations relative to
them remaining to be made, which we will now refer to.
In the first place the analyses given do not determine
the comparative quantity of produce obtained 2) er acre
from those different manures, but the proportions of
animal gluten and starch. It is very probable that the
horse, pigeon, and cow dung may in some cases produce
as large a return as urine, bullock's blood, and night-
soil ; but the value of the produce of the latter to the
miller, and especially the baker and consumer, is greatly
superior to that of the former, on account of the large
proportion of gluten. We have given a striking illustra-
tion of this in the account of the quantity of bread pro-
duced from Talavera flour, namely, 101 loaves per sack^
These loaves were weighed into the oven at 4 lbs. 8 oz.
each, giving an excess of seven or eight loaves per sack
over the usual quantity obtained.

We have still to speak of the properties and effects of
guano, which has been introduced into the United
Kingdom about fifteen or sixteen years. The history of
this manure is rather interesting : When Peru was first
discovered by the Spaniards, the natives were found to
cultivate their valleys with great care and industry.
Acosta, who was one of the first Spaniards who visited
that country, and who wrote a ' ' natural and moral
history" of it, bears witness to the excellent manage-
ment of the land by the Peruvians, and says that they
manured it with the dung of a sea-bird called " the
guano, which frequented certain islands on the coast of
Peru, where they deposited their dung, which had accu-
jnulated to the depth of many ells. And he further speaks

of the wonderful effects of this manure upon the crops,
which were doubled in produce by its use.

This guano, however, was not brought to Europe
until very recently, for the sufiScient reason, that its ex-
portation has always been strictly prohibited whilst the
Spaniards held possession of the country ; and this pro-
hibition was only relaxed after the revolution, which
separated the South American and Mexican colonies of
Spain from the mother country.

Upon the first introduction of guano into England,
the price it bore was twenty guineas per ton ; and such
were its extraordinary powers as a manure, that it was
found to pay even at that enormous rate. It has, how-
ever, become more abundant since, by the discovery of
other deposits of sea-fowl dung, which has lowered the
price to about £13 10s. or £^14, at which the pure
guano finds a ready sale. The experience of the British
farmer has confirmed the almost miraculous reports of
the early writers on America, of the prodigious effect of
guano on the crops of maize and other cereals. Its in-
troduction forms a memorable era in British husbandry,
and has given rise to a series of experiments in artificial
manuring, which, although still in its infancy, has
tended greatly to the increase of production.

With regard to the effect of guano upon the wheat
crop, it is only necessary to exhibit the analysis of pure
guano to prove its admirable adaptation to that grain.
We shall present the reader with two analyses, the first
by Messrs. Nesbit, made at their laboratory at Kenning-
ton, and the second by Professor Way, as stated by him
in his lecture before the Royal Agricultural Society of
England on the 4th of March, 1850.

Analysis of pure Peruvian guano by Messrs. Nesbit :

lbs.

Moisture 208-8

Organic matter 8922

Nitrogen 295'0

Inorganic matter 7840

2240-0

The ammonia contained in the organic matter
amounted to 358-4 lbs., or 16 per cent. ; the phos-
phoric acid in the inorganic to 224 lbs., or 10 per
cent. ; and the potash to 67*2 lbs., or nearly 3 per cent.
Thus nearly 30 per cent, of the guano consists of those
very substances which are so essential to the proper
development of the grain in the wheat crop, and for im-
parting that large proportion of gluten which constitutes
the strength of the flour when manufactured.

The second analysis, by Professor Way, affords the
following result : —

Water 1309

Organic matter and aalta of ammonia 52-61

Sand 1-54

Earthy phosphates , 24-12

Inorganic matters not specified 8 64

10000

In this result also the proportion of ammonia, as stated
by Mr. Way, was 17'41 per cent.

Independent of the direct benefit derived from this
substance, the effect of such a stimulant applied to the
wheat crop, for which its components are so admirably

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

341

adaptecl, are striking, and are well known to the Eng-
lish farmer. It is not saying too much to affirm, that
since its introduction, it has, by its immediate and direct
operation, as well as by the stimulus it has given to the
manufacture of other valuable artificial manures, in-
creased the average produce of wheat in the United
Kingdom, at least from 8 to 12 bushels per acre ; and,
moreover, the problem has been satisfactorily solved, of
the comparative cheapness of condensed manures over
the common farm-yard dung, when the farmer is com-
pelled to purchase a supply for his crops.

Our space will not admit of an extension of these re-
marks, nor is it necessary. So much has been written
and spoken on the subject of late years, and the agricul-
turists generally are so well informed upon it, that it
would be presumption on our part to profess to throw
any fresh light on the subject, as well as going beyond
the design of this essay.

With respect to seed, little needs to be said. Every
English farmer understands the importance of changing
his seed wheat, and of adapting the species to the soil of
his farm ; and the miller will be sure to let him know
whether it possessesstrength enough, whenmanufactured.
Perhaps the change of seed may not be so much at-
tended to as it ought to be ; and where this is neglected,
it will operate in the same way with breeding cattle
"in-and-in," as it is termed: the quality is sure to
become deteriorated. In the Highlands of Ethiopia, the
cultivators never sow the seed produced on their own
land, but change it every year, as well as procure new
stocks or varieties, by hybridizing ; consequently, their
wheat is always of a fine quality.* It is a question, too,
which we have never seen solved, whether the farmer
oughtnot to procure his new seed-wheat from off a poorer,
rather than a richer, soil than his own. The contrary
practice appears like taking a bullock or sheep from a
rich pasture, and putting him upon a poor one for im-
provement, the result of which would very soon be
obvious.

We have thus, briefly and imperfectly, gone over the
agricultural characteristics of wheat ; but we cannot
close without bearing our testimony to the comprehen-
sive and important nature of the general subject. The
cultivation of the earth is, indeed, a noble and interesting
employment, and when conducted on the principles of
an enlightened philosophy, calls into vigorous and bene-
ficial exercise, all the moral and intellectual faculties of
man. Although, simply considered, it may not be,
strictly speaking, a science in itself, it becomes eminently
such, by its intimate connection with most of the phy-
sical sciences. These are the handmaids and caterers of
agriculture, being, by an involuntary agency, made sub.
servient to its purposes. It summons to its aid all the
elements of nature, and, by the instrumentality of
science, compels them to yield up the secrets of their
various and occult combinations, which with a nice dis-
crimination, assisted by the same agency, it adapts to its
purposes. Such is the position which agriculture ought,
and which we firmly believe it is still destined, to hold

* Harrit, on the Highlands of Ethiopia,

in connection with the highest exercises of the human
mind.

One thing, however, is still wanting to give to this
branch of industry its proper status in society. We
have no college of agriculture, nor even a professor's
chair in any of our educational institutions. No
wonder then, that agriculture should be looked upon
with scorn by the more intellectual portion of society,
when the study of it is confined to a few years' at-
tendance to the more vulgar routine of business, under
the teaching of a man, himself, in all probability, totally
ignorant of the simplest principles of animal and vege-
table life, and of the nature of the soil upon which he is
working ; when an education, which might, both rea-
sonably and profitably, embrace in its course the whole
range of physical science, is confined generally to the
study of '' the three R's," some knowledge of land sur-
veying, and perhaps, a smattering of Latin and French,
which, after leaving school, are forgotten with much
greater celerity than they were learned. Such were the
farmers of the last generation ; and although the present
race are, thanks to a few of our great men, emancipated
from this gross state of unenlightenment, something
more is wanted to raise agriculture to the dignity of a
study, and place the British farmer side by side with the
man of science.

This has not been lost sight of in Ireland, where a
chair of agriculture is attached to each of the New or
Queen's Colleges, and the effect has been very beneficial
already. In addition to which, agents are employed by
the Government, to instruct the people in the various
districts, in agricultural operations. This latter system
is not intended to be strictly scientific, but rather, by
imparting instruction in the ruder branches of the pro-
fession, thus to prepare them, hereafter to receive more
elaborate instruction. This, of course, would be totally
unnecessary here j but a college or a professor's chair
of agriculture, would at once raise that branch of in-
dustry to a science, and give it its proper standing in
the public estimation.

Erratum. — In Mr. Neabit's analysis of guano, ia the pre-
ceding page — Moisture 208.8, should have been printed 268.8,

IMPORTANT TO SHEEP-OWNERS.— A case involving
the question, whether an owner of sheep can destroy a dog
committing havoc among his flock, came before the Small
Debt Court of Perth on Tuesday last . — A dog belonging to
James Culbert, shepherd to Mr. Hai't of Damside, did
"wickedly aad felouiously" attack and destroy two sheep
belonging to Mr. Thomson of Drumtogle ; and Mr. Thomson,
finding the dog on his unlawful mission, caused the intruder
to be shot, and was wiUing that the matter should end there.
Culbert, the shepherd, however, immediately brought an action
against Mr. Thomson, coatending for damages for the loss of
the dog, upon which the defender insisted in defence for the
value of his sheep. When the case came on for hearing, the
sheriff found Mr. Thomson at f^ult in destroying the dog, and
amerced him in damages to the amount of £3 ; but at the same
time found him entitled to the value of the sheep destroyed,
for which Culbert had to pay £2, thereby leaving a balance of
£1 in favour of the pursuer. Each party had to bear his own
expenses,

A A

3i2

I'HE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

AN ESSAY ON EARTHS AND SOILS,

their derivation and composition, particularly with reference to the clays and
sandy soils of suffolk, and their econxijviical management, under present
circumstances.

By Cornelius Welton (of Wickham Market),

Author of "Landlord and Tenant," " Dairy Husbandry," &c., &c.

(Which obtained the Premium offered by Sir Filsroy Kelly, to the Members of the East Suffolk Agricultural Association,
for the best Essay on " The Improvement of Poor Light Soil and Poor Thin-shinned Soil, in the County of Suffolk.")

The Earth — her riches were to all men given —
The first best boon of an indulgent Heaven ;
And he who tills her bosom ouglit to share
Her bounties freely, equal to his care."— Bird.

To a cursory observer, the earths appear to be
infinitely diversified ; so much so that he would
probably think the different kinds are innumerable.
However, notwithstanding the varied appearance
of the soil upon which we tread and labour, and
the mountainous parts of the world, whose mani-
fold strata present to our view substances of every
texture and of every shade, the whole is composed
of but nine primitive earths ; and, as six of these
occur but seldom, and are possessed of little or no
agricultural value, the eflfects produced by the other
three are the more remarkable. They are known
as follows : —

1. Silica.

2. Alumina.

3. Lime.

4. Magnesia.

5. Barytes.

6. ZiRCONIA.

7. Glucina.

8. Yttria.

9. Strontites.

1. Silica is found in almost all mineral sub-
stances, particularly in gravel, sand, quartz, and
flint, of which it forms nearly the whole substance.
It is also the chief ingredient of those rocks which
constitute the most bulky material of the solid parts
of our globe.

2. Alumina, or pure clay, is soft to the touch,
adhesive to the tongue, gives out a peculiar odour
when moistened, forms a paste with water, has
great affinity for colouring matter, unites with
most acids, acquires great hardness, and contracts
in the fire. Alumina is distributed over the face of
the earth in the form of clay, and, from this cir-
cumstance, acquired the name of " argil ;" it is
united to the oxides of iron in the ochres. It ob-
tained the name of alumina from its being the basis
of the salt called alum. Common clay is a mixture
of alumina and silica ; ^it frequently contains me-
tallic oxides, chalk, and other earths. Fuller's-
earth or pipe-clay is alumina combined with very
fine silica.

3. Lime is never found pure; it is always in a

state of combination, generally with an acid, and
more frequently with carbonic acid, as in chalk,
marble, limestone, oyster-shells, corals, &c., and
is the basis of animal bones ; it occurs likewise
in the waters of springs and rivers. It is produced
from the carbonates by exposure to strong heat, by
which means the carbonic acid and water are
driven off, and tolerably pure lime is the product.
It may be remarked that while testaceous shells-—
the shells of such fish or animals as do not cast
them annually — are formed of carbonate of lime,
the shells of crustaceous animals, or, as Haulch
calls them, "spiders of the sea" — shell-fish which
annually cast their shells — and the shells of birds'
eggs, contain a portion of phosphate of lime. Its
use in the former is not known, but the design of
Nature in furnishing the shells of eggs with phos-
phoric acid is very apparent. The 1)ody of the egg
contains neither phosphoric acid nor lime ; it was
necessary, therefore, that Nature should provide
means for furnishing both these substances in the
shell, which becomes thinner and thinner during
the whole time of incubation, till the living embryo
has appropriated a sufficient quantity for the form-
ation of its bones. Part of the albumen combines
with the shell for this purpose, and another portion
forms feathers. It is well known that fowls kept
in a state of confinement, where they cannot get at
chalk or calcareous earth, lay their eggs without
shells.

It has been ascertained, from numberless experi-
ments, that, upon an average, a ton of chalk or
limestone yields, when burnt, about 11 J cwt. of
quick lime (if weighed before it is cold)— 'that when
exposed to the air it increases in weight daily at
the rate of 1 cwt. per ton for the first four or five
days after being drawn from the kiln. This fact
may be worth the notice of parties using lime in
large quantities.

Marl is a mixture of carbonate of lime and clay,

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

840

and is useful chiefly in proportion to the quantity
of calcareous earth which it contains. Of all the
modes of trial, the one best suited to the farmer is
to observe how much fixed air the marl gives out ;
and this will be ascertained by dissolving a small
portion of it in diluted muriatic acid, and observing
what portion of weight it loses by the escape of this
air. Thus, if an ounce loses only from 40 to 44
grains, he may conclude that the ounce of marl
contained only 100 grains of calcareous earth, and
that it would be his interest to pay seven times as
much for a load of lime as he must pay for a load
of marl at the same distance.

4. In some parts of lingland the limestone is
strongly impregnated with magnesia, which renders it
injurious to the growth of vegetables :* it is generally
of a yellow or fawn colour, and may be known by
its being much longer in dissolving in acid than
common chalk. The limestone of Breedon, Leices-
tershire, contains half its weight in magnesia; that
of Humbleton, near Sunderland, 45 per cent, of
carbonate of magnesia. I saw in the towns of
Nottingham and Northampton this kind of lime
being made up into mortar for building purposes,
without any addition of sand.

5. Barytes, from the Greek word Barus (trans-
lated heavy). This earth possesses no agricultural
value, being invariably found in combination with
lead, and is poisonous ; it is, notwithstanding,
largely used in the arts, for dyeing, &c.

6. ZiRCONiA. — This earth is found principally
in Ceylon, and is little known or used.

7. Glucina, from the Greek word (translated
sweet). It is a component part of some precious
stones, particularly the emerald and beryl.

8. Yttria. — An earth found in a black mineral,
called gadolinite, from Ytterby, in Sweden, possess-
ing no agricultural value.

9. Strontia, or Strontites, is an earth first
found in a lead mine at Strontian, in Argyleshire ;
it gives a purple colour to flame, but possesses no
•agricultural value.

After this somewhat tedious enumeration of the
various earths, it will require but little to convince
the most sceptical of the importance of the first
three, and of the insignificance and little attention
which need be paid agriculturally to the other six.
1, silica or sand; 2, chalk or lime; 3, alumin or

* It has been long known that a particular species
of limestone found in different parts of the north of
England, when applied in its burnt and slacked
state to land in considerable quantities, occasioned
sterility or materially injured the crops for many
years. Mr. Tennant, by a chemical examination of
this species of limestone, ascertained that it con-
tained a considerable proportion of magnesian
earth, and by several experiments proved that this
earth was prejudicial to vegetation.

clay, with decayed vegetable matter, or manure
artificially combined, comprise a soil, a good or
bad soil, sandy or clayey, according in exact
proportion to the combination of those earths with
vegetable remains or manure : there is no mistake
about this. For instance, a good or bad pudding
is known, and only known, by its component parts ;
precisely in the same manner is a soil.

The Formation of Soils. — The change of
temperature to which the earth's surface is con-
stantly subject is one great cause of the slow de-
struction of its most solid and durable constituents ;
and when to this is added the gigantic power with
which water, in becoming ice, opposes the obsta-
cles to its expansion, we have an agent almost
resistless. The fissures which occur between
the blocks and masses of the granites,
porphyries, and similar rocks, become filled
with water, which, in the act of freezing
expands so as slowly to remove them from each
other ; their edges and angles become thus open to
the attacks of the weather, and by a slow dis-
lodgment they fall into the valleys or rivers, or are
at once cast into the ocean. Where the materials
are of a yielding and frangible texture, this de-
struction is proportionately rapid ; the influence of
the weather, on the slate mountains particularly, is
often such as to produce hills of fragments at their
feet. Masses of rock thus loosened from their
original beds become new and powerful instruments
of destruction. They roll down the precipices, wear-
ing themselves and the surface that bears them ;
and if near the sea, or carried thither by rivers,
they become part of the mighty artillery with which
the ocean assails the bulwarks of the land. They
are impelled against the coasts, from which they
break off other fragments ; and the whole thus
ground against each other, whatever be their hard-
ness, are reduced to gravel or shingle, the smooth
surface and rounded masses of which are con-
vincing proofs of the manner in which it was
formed. It is by operations of this kind (not per-
formed in a day, but in ages) that Nature has in-
dented and carved out the earth's surface, that the
rivers seem to have cut out their own beds, and
that the land is undergoing gradual demohtion.
Rocks containing alkali often decompose rapidly,
in consequence of the loss of that ingredient. The
quick disintegration of much of the Cornish granite
is well known, and furnishes a valuable material
for the manufacture of pottery. Thus the decom-
position of the pyrites (sulphuret of iror) in chalk
produces sulphate of hme. In aluminous slate it
gives rise to the production of alum ; and in the
clifFs at Newhaven, on the Sussex coast, a very
curious series of changes is going on. A stratum
(chalk and clay) containing decomposing pyrites,

A A 2

f HE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

lies upon the chalk, which gives rise to the forma-
tion of sulphate of alumina. This is decomposed
by the chalk j and aluminous earth, selenite — i. e.,
sulphate of lime and oxide of iron — are the results.
Thus by mechanical operations and chemical
changes, sometimes separate, sometimes united,
rugged peaks and abrupt precipices are gradually
wearing and softening down, and giving rise to
rounded summits, gentle slopes, and habitable sur-
faces. The detritus so produced is carried by
brooks and rivers towards the low lands, where it
is deposited, or is transported towards the sea,
where it forms bars and islands at the mouths of
rivers ; for instance, Holland, and the islands at
the mouths of the Maas, Mersea, Sheppey, and
others on the Thames, to which acres are annually
added by the sediment deposited by the currents
and tides flowing down from our great metropolis ;
or it is employed in levelling uneven surfaces and
fining cavitiesandbasins, or where rivers are broken
in their course by the intervention of lakes, all of
which are filling up, as may be learned even by
hasty inspection. This is nowhere more conspi-
cuous than in the waters which adorn the scenery
of Westmoreland and Cumberland, especially Der-
wentwater, at the Borrowdale extremity of which
the meadow is annually increasing and adding to
the circumjacent fields; and the examination of the
beach between Derwent and Bassenthwaite shows
that the two lakes were once united, and that the
present separation is alluvial matter or a bar thrown
up by the concurrent streams of Newland's water
on the west, and the Greta on the east.

Sir Humphrey Davy long ago arrived at the con-
clusion that all soils are composed of metallic ox-
ides, and that the earths have all a metallic base.
I have already shown the agencies which Provi-
dence has ordained for breaking down those rocky
and otherwise unmanageable masses, and putting
them under the control of man ; viz., atmospheric ain
and the immense mechanical power of ice, of which
we have a ready explanation in our fallow lands, espe-
cially upon the strong clays, if compared previously
and after hard frosts. We there see the hardest
chalk stones shivered to atoms upon the first ap-
pearance of a thaw.

No subjects are of more importance to thefarmer
than the nature and improvement of soils, and no
part of the study of agriculture is more capable of
being illustrated by chemical inquiries and experi-
ments. Soils (as previously stated) are extremely
diversified in appearance and quality; they con-
sist of different proportions of the same elements
in various states of chemical combination or me-
chanical mixture. The substances which consti-
tute soils have been already mentioned, and are
certain compounds of the earth — viz., silica, lime.

alumina, magnesia, and the oxide or rust of iron,
animal or vegetable matter in a decomposed state,
and saline or alkahne combinations. Almost all
soils, particularly good corn soils, contain oxide of
iron, of which there are two kinds, the black and
the brown. The black is the substance which flies
off vvhen red-hot iron is hammered. The brown
oxide may be formed by keeping the black oxide
red hot for a long time in contact with the air ; or
by exposing iron to the action of the atmosphere,
when it becomes covered with the red oxide or rust,
and in process of time its whole substance becomes
changed. They are easily distinguished from other
substances ; when dissolved in acids, they give a
black colour to a solution of galls. All brown or
yellow soils contain carbonate of iron, or iron in
combination with chalk. The saline compounds
formed in soils are common salt, sulphate of mag-
nesia, sulphate of iron, nitrate of lime and magne-
sia, sulphate of potash, and carbonate of potash,
and soda, and the phosphates.

The silica in soils is usually mixed or combined
with alumina and oxide of iron, or with alumina,
lime, magnesia, and oxide of iron, forming gravel
and sand of different degrees of fineness. The car-
bonate of lime is usually in an impalpable form,
but sometimes in the state of calcareous sand. The
impalpable part of the soil, which is called clay loam,
&c., consists of silica, alumina, lime, and magnesia,
and is nearly of the same composition as the hard
sand, but more finely divided. The vegetable or
animal matter (and the first is by far the most
common in soils) exists in different states of decom-
position; they are sometimes fibrous, sometimes
entirely broken down and mixed with the soil. Sir
Humphrey Davy gives the following result of his
analysis of sundry specimens : —

A good turnip soil from Holkham, Norfolk,
afforded eight parts out of nine silicious sand ;
and one part, or one-ninth, of finely-divided matter
consisted of —

Carbonate of lime 63

Silica 15

Alumina ........,, 11

Oxide of iron 3

Vegetable and saline matter 5

Moisture , 3

100

A soil remarkable for producing fine oak timber

he found to consist of six parts of sand and one

part of clay and finely-divided matter. 100 parts

of the entire soil submitted to analysis produced — •

Silica , 54

Alumina 28

Carbonate of lime 6

Oxide of iron 5

Decomposing vegetable matter 4

Moisture and loss 3

100

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

345

An excellent wheat soil gave three parts in five
of silicious sand, and the finely divided matter con-
sisted of —

Carbonate of lime t . 28

Silica « 32

Alumina 29

Animal and vegetable matter and moisture 1 1

100
Of these soils, the last was by far the most, and
the first the least, coherent in texture. In all cases,
the constituent parts of the soil which give tenacity
and coherence are the finely -divided matters ; and
they possess the power of giving those qualities in
the highest degree when they contain much alu-
mina.

A small quantity of finely-divided matter is suffi-
cient to fit a soil for the production of turnips and
barley ; and I have seen a tolerable crop of turnips
on a soil containing 11 parts out of 12 of sand. A
much greater proportion of sand, however, always
produces absolute sterility. Vegetable or animal
matters, when finely divided, not only give cohe-
rence, but likewise softness and a degree of open-
ness ; but neither they nor any other part of the
soil must be in too great proportion j and a soil is
unproductive, if it consists entirely of impalpable
matters.

Pure alumina or silica, pure carbonate of lime or
carbonate of magnesia, are incapable of supporting
healthy vegetation ; and no soil is fertile that con-
tains as much as nineteen parts out of twenty of
any of the constituents that have been mentioned.

The power of the soil to absorb water and the
gases it holds in solution depends in some measure
upon the state of division of its parts : the more
divided they are, the greater is their absorbent
power. The diflFerent constituent parts of a soil
likewise appear to act with diflferent degrees of
energy. Thus, vegetable substances are more ab-
sorbent than animal substances, animal substances
more so than compounds of alumina and sihca, and
compounds of alumina and silica more absorbent
than carbonate of lime and magnesia. The power
of soils to absorb water from air is much connected
with fertility. When this power is great, the plant
is supplied with moisture in dry seasons, and the
eflfect of evaporation in the day is counteracted by
the absorption of aqueous vapour from the atmo-
sphere during the night. The soils best adapted
for supplying the plants with water by atmospheric
absorption are those in which there is a due mix-
ture of sand, finely-divided clay, and carbonate of
lime, with some animal and vegetable matter, and
which are sufficiently \ight to be freely permeable
by the atmosphere. With respect to this quality,
carbonate of lime and animal and vegetable matter

are of great use in soils : they give absorbent power
to the soil, without giving it tenacity. Sand, which
also destroys tenacity, consequently, gives little ab-
sorbent power. Water and the decomposing animal
and vegetable matter existing in the soil constitute
the true nourishment of plants, in addition to cer-
tain earthy or inorganic matter supplied by the
soil; and as the earthy parts of the soil are useful
in retaining water, so as to supply it in the proper
proportions to the roots, so they are likewise effi-
cacious in producing the proper distribution of the
animal and vegetable matter. When equally mixed
with it, they prevent it from decomposing too ra-
pidly; and by these means the soluble parts are
supphed in proper proportions. Besides this
agency, which may be considered as mechanical,
there is another agency between soils and organizable
matter, which may be regarded as chemical in its
nature. The earth, and even the earthy carbonates,
have a certain degree of chemical attraction for
many of the principles of vegetable and animal
substances. This is easily shown in the instance
of alumina and oil. If an acid solution of alumina
be mixed with a solution of soap, which consists of
oily matter and potash, the oil and the alumina will
unite and form a white powder, which sinks to the
bottom. The extract from decomposing vegetable
matter, when boiled with pipeclay or chalk, forms
a combination by which the vegetable matter is
rendered more difficult of decomposition and of
solution. Pure silica and silicious sands have little
action of this kind; and the soils which contain the
most alumina and carbonate of lime are those which
act with the greatest chemical agency in preserving
manures : such soils merit the appellation which is
commonly given them of " rich soils," for the vege-
table nourishment is long preserved in them,
unless taken up by the organs of plants. Silicious
sands, on the contrary, deserve the term " hungry;'
for the vegetable and animal matters they contain,
not being attracted by the earthy constituent parts
of the soil, are more liable to be decomposed by
the action of the atmosphere, or carried off" from
them by water.

A clay of loamy subsoil is of material advantage
to a sandy soil, as it retains moisture in such a
manner as to be capable of supplying that lost by
the earth above, in consequence of evaporation or
the consumption of it by plants. In concluding
this part of the subject, it is manifest that soils
were originally produced by the decomposition of
rocks and strata. It often happens that soils are
found in an unaltered state upon the rocks from
which they were derived ; and it is easy to form an ^
idea of the manner in which rocks are converted
into soils, by referring to the instance of soft gra-
nite or porcelain granite. This substance consists

348

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

of three ingredients— viz., quartz, felspar, mica,
Tlie quartz is almost pure silicious earth. The fel-
spar and mica are very compounded substances.
Both contain silica, alumina, and oxide of iron. In
the felspar there is usually lime and potash ; in the
mica, lime and magnesia. As soon as the smallest
layer is formed on the surface of a rock, the spores
of lichens, mosses, and other imperfect vegetables,
floating in the atmosphere, and v/hich have made it
their resting-place, begin to vegetate ; their death,
decomposition, and decay afford a certain quantity
of organizable matter, which mixes with the earthy
materials of the rock : in this improved soil more
perfect plants are capable of subsisting : these, in
their turn, absorb nourishment from water and the
atmosphere, and, after perishing, afford new ma-
terials to those already provided. The decomposi-
tion of the rock still continues ; and at length, by
slow and gradual processes, a soil is formed, in
which even forest-trees can fix their roots, and
which in time becomes fitted to reward the labour
of the cultivator.

In instances where successive generations of
vegetables have grown upon a soil, unless part of
their produce has been carried off by man or con-
sumed by animals, the vegetable matter increases
in such a proportion, that the soil approaches to a
peat in its nature ; and if in a situation where it can
receive water from a higher district, it becomes
spongy, and is rendered incapable of supporting
the nobler classes of vegetables.

It is evident, from what has been said concerning
the production of soils from rocks, that there must
be at least as many varieties of soils as there are
species of rock exposed at the surface of the earth;
in fact, there are many more. Independent of the
changes produced by cultivation and the exertions
of human labour, the materials of strata have been
mixed together and transported from place to place
by various great alterations that have taken place
in the system of our globe, and by the constant
operation of water. To attempt to class soils with
scientific accuracy would be a vain labour : the
distinctions adopted by farmers are sufficient for
the purposes of agriculture, particularly if some de-
gree of precision be adopted in the application of
terms. The term "sandy," for instance, should
never be applied to any soil that does not contain
at least seven-eighths of sand. Sandy soils that
effervesce with acids should be distinguished by
the name of "calcareous sandy soil," or "mild
loam," to distinguish them from those that are
silicious.

The term " clayey soil" should not be applied to
any land which contains less than one-sixth of
impalpable earthy matter not considerably effer-
"^escing in acids.

The word " loam" should be limited to soils con-
taining at least one-third of impalpable earthly
matter, copiously effervescing with acids. A soil,
to be considered as " peaty," ought to contain at
least one-half of vegetable matter.

In general, the soils the materials of which are
the most various and heterogeneous are thos ©
called " alluvial," or those which have been formed
from the mud or the depositions of rivers, many of
which are extremely fertile.

A specimen taken from a soil near one of our
rivers afforded eight parts of finely-divided earthy
matter, and one part silicious sand: the finely-
divided matter gave the following result, on ana-
lysis— viz. :

Carbonate of lime ^ 36

Alumina 25

SiHca 20

Oxide of iron ....=, 8

Vegetable, animal, and saline matter .... 19

In all instances the fertihty seems to depend upon
the state of division and mixture of earthy materials
and vegetable and animal matter.

In ascertaining th6 composition of sterile soils,
with a view to their improvement, any particular in-
gredient which is the cause of their unproductive-
ness, should be pai'ticularly attended to ; if possible
they should be compared with fertile soils in the
same neighbourhood and in similar situations, as
difference in the composition may in many cases in-
dicate the most proper methods of improvement.

If on washing a sterile soil it is found to contain
the salts of iron, or any acid matter, it maybe ame-
liorated by the application of 5i«'c/t lime; if there
be any excess of calcareous matter in the soil, it
may be improved by the application of sand, veget-
able matter, or clay. Soils too abundant in sand
are benefited by the use of clay, loam, or vegetable
matter ; a deficiency of vegetable or animal matter
must be supplied by manure, or peat or bog earth.
An excess of vegetable matter must be removed by
burning, or remedied by the application of calcareous
or other earthy materials ; the improvement of peats
or bogs or marsh lands must be preceded by drain-
ing (stagnant water being injurious to all nutritive
classes of plants), and followed by the liberal use of
clay or chalk.

The best natural soils are those of which the
materials have been derived from different strata,
which have been minutely divided by air and water,
and are intimately blended together ; and in im-
proving soils artificially, the farmer cannot do
better than imitate the process of nature.

The materials necessary for the purpose are sel-

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

347

dom far distant. Coarse sand is often found imme-
diately on chalk ; beds of sand and gravel are com-
mon below clay; and the contiguity of clay and
loam to the largest breadths of our poor sandy soils
is marvellously true, and a well-known fact. The
labour of improving the texture or constitution of
soil by transposition tends to great permanent ad-
vantage, and of all the improvements of agriculture
is the most substantial ; less manure is required
from its improved and conservative character,
capital expended inthis way secures additional pro-
ductiveness, and consequently the value of such
land in perpetuity is proportionably enhanced.

The Poor Clays. — Take a farm, for instance,
of average extent — say 150 acres, 50 acres of rich
deep staple, 50 of medium quality, and the residue
50 acres of poor thin worn-out arable, as is not un-
frequently the case, and at the furthest extremity of
the homestead. I have recently been employed to
fix the rent of such a farm, when the enquiry natu-
rally arose as to the proper distinction (if such a
thing is possible) between the three classes of soil,
and which to me, I confess, is a perfect puzzle. One-
third I found of meadow, pasture, and fine arable,
the latter capable, with fair treatment, of producing
upon an average of years, .32 to 40 bushels of wheat
per acre, 40 to 48 bushels of barley, and full ave-
rage crops of clover, peas, beans, and roots. The
next one-thirdj by means of close draining, and
similar treatment, will produce from 28 to 32
bushels wheat, 32 to 40 bushels barley, occasionally
a root crop, with clover, peas, beans, &c. The re-
maining one-third, strong restive clay, accessible
only through other fields, which may yield from 16
to 20 bushels per acre of wheat, beans, and peas in
the same meagre proportion, and every fourth year
a naked fallow of 5 or 6 strong ploughings, with
additional tillages. Rent and parish charges are
sunk for that year, and then follows barley or what
is commonly called summer-land barley, of 24 to 32
bushels per acre, generally three to four shillings
per quarter less in value than the produce of the
turnip or mixed soils.

I respectfully ask, who can make the proper dis-
tinction between such soils ? or is it possible to fix
a rent which shall make the poor land the cheapest
of the three classes ? This being an impossibiUty,
I know of no other means of treating such an occu-
pation other than as a whole ; the superabundance
of one portion must be applied to the wants or re-
quirements of the other. Still, the fact is, and it is
known to the occupier, that the profit made upon
the best soil is annually lost upon the worst. Here,
then, is the patient and the disease. The question
naturally arises — What is the remedy ? and by
whom should it be applied ?

There appear to be but two courses open worthy
of attention— either the soil must be enriched by
manures, or a return to pasture. It is well known
that the ostensible or paying crop upon this de-
scription of land has been wheat; and it was
primarily for this grain, and the war prices, that it
was converted into arable at all. But, with wheat
at 40s. per quarter I very much question the present
system — be that as it may, if it would not answer to
employ linseed cakes, or other rich food or manures
for forcing the v/heat crops on such lands when
prices averaged above 56s., I fear no tenant at the
present day, with capital at command — scarcely an
owner — would dare to venture upon so uncertain a
speculation as purchasing high-priced manures for
such a purpose. It would be impolitic and unrea-
sonable to calculate upon a beneficial result from
such a proceeding. The fact is, that certain de-
scriptions of arable land, in their present state, are
worse than useless ; they are an annual source of
loss and vexation to the occupier.

Of this latter description of soil, I say advisedly
to both owner and occupier and without hesitation
— lay them down to permanent pasture, and in carry-
ing out this suggestion, two material points require
consideration, viz. : —

The best means of getting them, into pasture, and
the after management. Upon the first — as to the
best mode of laying down the worn-out clays — no
time so proper as with the first crop of barley 'or oats
after a clean fallow. The land having been pre-
viously underdrained and made tolerably level, the
seeds should be procured from some respectable
seedsmen known as collectors and dealers in grass
seeds; those in London generally keep the best se-
lection, and by furnishing a description of the soil
will supply those and those only that are best suited.
If done in this way, the cost will vary between 21s.
and 25s. per acre. This expense, I am of opinion,
should be borne by the landlord, as a set-off against
the tenant's outlay, occasioned by the land having
been clean-fallowed in the previous year, and the
further condition that the scythe should not be used
upon the new-laid grass until the expiration of the
third year. During this period it is of the utmost
importance that the young layer be kept as free from
weeds as practicable ; afterwards it may be mown
every third year if desired, but the more liberal the
treatment in this respect the better.

I have laid down a considerable breadth of arable
land to pasture within the last 10 or 12 years, the
seeds mostly supplied by Messrs. Jacob Wrench
and Sons, seedsmen, near London Bridge.

Subjoined is a copy of two of their bills ; one for
seed sown upon 7 acres of poor clay within the pre-
sent year.

348

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

Seven Acres of Clay Soil.

3 1 Bushels Pacey's Rye Grass at 5

3f „ Meadow Fescue 6

IJ „ Cocksfoot 5

l| „ Meadow Foxtail 7

21 lbs. PoaTrivialis 70

28 lbs. Crested Dogstail 0 10

42 lbs. WhiteClover 72

14 lbs. Cow Grass 75

28 lbs. Trefoil 34

£ s.

6 .

. 0 19

6 .

. 1 2

0 .

. 0 8

0 .

. 0 12

0 .

. 0 13

0 .

. 1 3

0 .

. 1 7

0 .

. 0 9

0 .

. 0 8

£7 4 5

— cost rather less than 21s. per acre. And the fol-
lowing for

Seven Acres of Dry Sandy Soil.

3| Bushels Pacey's Eye Grass.

3^ „ Hard Fescue.

3§ „ Meadow Foxtail.

7 „ Peck's Sheep's Fescue.

21 lbs. Poa Pratensis.

7 lbs. Sweet Vernal.

7 lbs. Avena Flavensis.
42 lbs. White Clover.
18 lbs. Cow Grass.

— cost 25s. 6d. per acre.

These have produced a beautiful sward, perfectly
free from those noxious weeds which we too com-
monly find in newly-laid pastures.

Paring and burning old Pastures, or

BURNING SIMPLY THE POOR ClAYS. Upon

this vexed subject much has been said, written, and
in practice carried out to an immense extent. It
may be now termed an interesting, fascinating, and
even a fashionable part of management in the clay
districts ; but I am persuaded it has, like many other
agricultural operations, been carried on without that
due and careful enquiry which so beneficial or de-
structive a process demands. Little of a scientific
character has been written upon the subject since
Sir Humphrey Davy and Arthur Young's time ;
and before venturing upon any remarks of my own,
I purpose giving a few extracts from these writers.
Arthur ^Young, in his report of Suffolk, written
in 1813, says, page 182, "This husbandry, if
properly managed, is most admirable of all im-
provements, and improperly is the most mischie-
vous. It is scarcely possible, profitably, to bring
peat or moory soils from a state of nature into
cultivation without the assistance of fire. There
are in Suffolk many thousands of acres of poor,
wet, cold, hungiy pastures and neglected meadows,
overrun and filled with all sorts of rubbish, and
abounding with too few good plants to render their
improvement easy without breaking up ; all such
should be pared and burnt ; not to keep under the
plough to be exhausted and mined, which is infalli-
ble, and the land left in a worse state beyond all
comparison than it was be/ore, but to be laid down
immediately to permanent grass after the first or

second crop. The tenant would thus be greatly
benefited and the landlord's estate improved."

Sir Humphrey Davy, page 344, says, " The im-
provement of sterile lands by burning was known
to the Romans. It is mentioned by Virgil in the
first book of the Georgics, ' Scepe etiam steriles in-
cendere profuit agros.' It is a practice still much
in use in many parts of these Islands : the theory
of its operations has occasioned much discussion
both amongst scientific men and farmers. It rests
entirely upon chymical doctrines."

" The bases of all common soils are mixtures of
the primitive earths and oxide of iron,and these earths
have a certain degree of attraction for each other j
to regard this attraction in its proper point of view,
it is only necessary to consider the composition of
any common silicious stone. Felspar, for instance,
contains sihcious, aluminous, calcareous earths,
fixed alkali, and oxide of iron, which exist in one
compound, in consequence of their chemical attrac-
tions for each other. Let this stone be ground
into impalpable powder, it then becomes a substance
like clay ; if the powder be heated very strongly it
fuses, and on cooling forms a coherent mass similar
to the original stone — the parts separated by me-
chanical division adhere again, in consequence of
chemical attraction. If the powder is heated less
strongly, the particles only superficially combine
with each other, and form a gritty mass, which when
broke into pieces has the character of sand. If the
power of the powdered felspar to absorb water from
the atmosphere before and after the application of
heat be compared, it is found much less in the last
case ; the same effect takes place when the powder
of other sihcious or aluminous stones is made the
subject of experiment."

" I found two equal portions of basalt ground
into impalpable powder, of which one had been
strongly ignited and the other exposed only to a
temperature equal to that of boiling water, gained
very different weights in the same time when ex-
posed to air ; in four cases one had gained only two
grains, whilst the other had gained seven grains."
" In the manufacture ©f bricks the general prin-
ciple is well illustrated ; if apiece of dry brick earth
be applied to the tongue it will adhere to it very
strongly, in consequence of its power to absorb
water : but after it has been burnt there will be
scarcely a sensible adhesion. The process of burn-
ning renders the soil less compact, less tenacious
and retentive of moisture ; and when properly ap-
plied, may convert a matter that was stiff, damp,
and in consequence cold, into one powdery, dry
and warm, and much more proper as a bed for
vege table life. The great objection made by spe-
culative chemists to paring and burning is that it
destroys animal and vegetable matter, or the manure

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

349

in the soil ; but in cases in which the texture of its
earthy ingredients is permanently improved, there is
more than a compensation for this temporary disad-
vantage, and in some soils, where there is an excess
of inert vegetable matter, the destruction of it must
be beneficial, and the carbonaceous matter remaining
in the ashes may be more useful to the crop than the
vegetable fibre from which it was produced. Many
obscure causes have been referred to, for the pur-
pose of explaining the eflPects of paring and burn-
ing, but I believe they may be referred entirely to
the diminution of the coherence and tenacity of
clay, to the destruction of inert and useless vege-
table matter, and its conversion into manure. All
soils which contain too much dead vegetable fibre,
and which consequently lose from one-third to one-
half of their weight by incineration, and all such
as contain their earthy constituents in an impalpa-
ble state of division (i.e. the stiff clays and marls)
are improved by burning ; but in coarse sands or
rich soils, containing adjust mixture of the earths,
and in all cases in which the texture is already suf-
ficiently loose, or the organizahle matter sufficiently
soluble, the process of burning cannot he useful j
all poor silicious sand must be injured by it. An
intelligent farmer in Mounts Bay told me that he
had pared and burnt a small field several years ago,
which he had not been able to bring again into
good cultivation. I examined the spot, the grass
was poor and scanty, and the land an arid silicious
sand."

Here are the opinions of two of the most scientific
and celebrated men of the present century, and
what do they amount to ? First, that burning the
soil was practised by the Romans, that it changes
the texture of clay soils, and that in certain cases
it is the best, and in others the most destructive of
all operations in practical husbandry. All this,
without doubt, is perfectly true, and excellent ad-
vice.

Arthur Young says, for improving old pastures
overrun with land-whin and other kinds of rubbish,
which choke the natural grasses, the best plan is to
pare and burn, and then take one or two crops,
viz., turnips or cole-worts, and the other barley or
oats, with which it must be sown down again with
the permanent grass seeds. These two crops will
repay the occupier for his labour, and give him in
return a good pasture instead of a bad one; but he
adds, emphatically, I by no means recommend these
lands to be pared and burnt and ruined by conti-
nual cropping. This, he says, and says most cor-
rectly, is destruction to the soil.

I would ask the owners and occupiers what are
old arable and clay soils worth yearly to rent now,
compared with what they were during the first
fifteen or twenty years of their being brought into

cultivation, or before their virtues were exhausted
by continual cropping. With all deference to
opinions of practical men who have given any
attention to the subject, I respectfully put this
question. Arthur Young does not say go and burn
those soils, i. e., the poor clays, and restore them
to their original productiveness. Davy goes
further. His principal reason for advocating fire
is, that it changes the texture of the strong clays
from being tough, cold, and adhesive, to a state
warm, dry, and powdery, and illustrates his argu-
ments by comparing brick-earth and bricks. The
operation of burning, we know, does produce me-
chanical division, or diflferent arrangements of the
substances of which the earth is composed ; the
alumina loses its tenacity without regaining it in
its altered condition. May I ask. Has any gentle-
man been in the habit of using much of this brick
dirt or earth in its burnt state (of which there is
always a considerable quantity at brick kilns) as
manure ? I had a brick kiln several years, and at
first was led to believe it was not only useful, but
for cold lands a valuable application ; I therefore
used it five or six successive years without any
visible advantage, and upon examination I found
as many loads of sand would be just about the
same value, and therefore it was afterwards used
in repairing the roads, &c. The system of burning
borders, banks, and headlauds round fields is still
practised to a consideraole extent, principally under
the plea that it eflFectually destroys the grass and
rubbish. So far the practice is desirable, if the
expense is not an objection. But even in this case,
the system of burning clay in large heaps or
mounds is clearly unscientific, expensive, and
wasteful : the first by subjecting vegetable matter
to a long-continued extreme heat the alkalies are
destroyed, the carbon all dissipated, and but little
remains beyond the brick red earth transformed
from its original state to clay or sand. There is,
however, one consideration of more importance, in
my opinion, than all the others connected with the
practice, and that is, where the clay contains chalk
or calcareous matter it loses during the process its
carbonic acid, and lime is the result : this, I believe,
would be a useful application upon many of our
moory or deep soil lands, where the corn crops are
sometimes lodged. Some advantage to the suc-
ceeding crop lies also in the power of the alkalies,
liberated during the process of burning and form-
ing combinations with the silica in the soil, forming
soluble silicates ; which not only tend to increase
the bulk of straw, but gives it a reed-like appear-
ance, of a bright yellow colour, and glassy on the
outside. These are soluble silicates, which will
oftentimes turn the edge of the sharpened knife.
The power which many plants possess of taking up

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

the earthy constituents of the soil is well exempli-
fied in the strong reed growino- by salt-water rivers,
I a:n not aware that the alkalies possess any grain-
producing powers; but they certainly increase the
quantity and strength of the straw, and which upon
soils naturally poor or poor from exhaustion, if
sufficiently moistened during the summer months,
are beneficial.

Economical Management. — In order fully
to develope the capabilities of a clay farm, it should
be held in connection with a similar extent of
turnip or sandy soil. Such an arrangement enables
the occupier to keep himself well supplied with
stock, particularly sheep, the year through, by
shifting them during the wet season from the clays
to the sand, and in dry seasons (vice versa) from
the sand to the clay.

The advantage of holding the clays in connection
with the hghter description of soil does not by any
means rest here. Cultivation is another most im-
portant desideratum, in most, it may be said in all
seasons the removal of the horse-labour alone to
the clays at those particular times when they are in
good condition for working cannot be overvalued ;
it moreover gives the occupier a command over his
business totally unknown to those whose operations
are confined solely to either light or heavy soil.

No description of stock is so desirable as sheep,
and upon no soil is the use so advantageously seen
as upon strong soils, where the ground is suffi-
ciently dry. Persons may say — But the distance,
frequently twelve or fifteen miles from clay to
sandy soils. Suppose it to be twenty. I should
consider that no bar or any great objection, in com-
parison with the advantages which are known to
result from such an arrangement.

An impression also has prevailed amongst many
practical men, which at one time I had reason to
suppose might be advantageously applied to the
clays of Suffolk, viz., the Scotch practice of allow-
ing the clover-layers to remain under grass two
years instead of one. I have since seen Scotch
husbandry, and were the soil (of which we have
been ostensibly treating) the quality of the land
under cultivation there, then I might readily fall in
with the suggestion ; but it must be borne in mind
that much of the soil under cultivation in Scotland
is alluvial compared with ours, new land having a
tendency to produce the natural grasses, which
may be in some measure accounted for from their
northerly direction and the moisture of the climate.
Very little if any of the soil under cultivation in
Scotland will be found to answer the description
of the Suffolk clays, so far as I have seen and been
able to form an opinion — their cultivation is pretty
well limited to dry turnip and rich alluvial; or, as

they call it, "carse land"— their very poor soils
are, as they ought to be elsewhere, in pasture.

There is also the well known and insuperable
difficulty ,upon the poor clays, of producing clover
or other artificial grasses with any degree of cer-
tainty, even at the usual interval of seven years ;
in those instances, with a moderate crop of clover,
and consequently a short crop for mowing in the
first year, what would be the condition of such
land at the end of two years ? Undoubtedly unfit
for any crop, until after a summer fallow. I am
not adverting to particular instances, but the ave-
rage of clay farms. I believe the introduction of
such a practice would be attended with increased
expense, less certainty of a fair return, and there-
fore dangerous to those who may embark upon a
speculation. The cultivation of light or sandy soils
will always differ from those of which we have been
previously treating ; but even the cultivation of
these lands may be carried too far. Roots, we
know, must be grown extensively for winter or
spring food, and the barley or spring crop depends
mainly upon them. Turnip culture, it is well
known, has been for more than half a century the
basis of the Norfolk husbandry, for which the
annual expenditure in artificial manures has been,
and is still immense ; and so accustomed are those
lands to their quaternal dose, that without it ex-
haustion to the soil and ruin to the occupier would
inevitably follow.

In the choice of manures, popular favour seems
to have accorded the palm to guano ; but recently
some flock-masters — principally those known as
large purchasers of this article — have not been
quite so fortunate with their ewes and lambs as
formerly, or as their lagging neighbours. It seems
hard to believe that so harmless a manure, its in-
gredients so well known, should have anything to
do with ewes warping their lambs ; and whether
such is really the case, or that the richness, rank-
ness, or inordinate strength of growth of the turnip,
taken in too large quantity, may not have a ten-
dency to lay on flesh and enrich the blood beyond
the requirements of the animal far advanced in
pregnancy, is a question. I have heard more than
one flockmaster declare that he will not use guano
again for the same purpose. Would not this be a
fair subject for investigation at a future oppor-
tunity ?

The question has been asked, if upon such a soil,
and for such a purpose, whether the same amount
applied per acre in guano or other artificial manure
for the turnips were given in linseed cake to sheep
whilst feeding a crop of turnips, raised without
manure, would not, to the barley and succeeding
crops, up to the wheat, be safer, more permanent,
and better laid out, than in artificial manure for the

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

351

turnip, calculating the increased risk and loss in
feeding to which the latter is hable ?

For sandy, and many of the hilly sides of gravelly
lands, where cultivation is expensive as well as
difficult, and the produce in corn almost entirely
dependent upon a moist summer, I am convinced
that sainfoin or lucerne might be grown alter-
nately every four 3'ears with advantage, viz., four
years under cultivation, and then laid again ; the
soil by such means gains freshness during the in-
terval, and enables it to yield its four years' course

of crops and fallow without or with little assistance
from the muck yard.

But whether for light soil or clay, it is necessary
now-a-days for a man to be up and doing. The
" morning and no standing still" must be the
motto, and all weeds and rubbish expelled, in order
that our valuable crops may have the full benefit
of the expensive fertilizers which we either manu-
facture upon the farm, or purchase from others.

" Labor omnia vincit."

AGRICULTURE AND C O M M ER C E.— IRELAND.

The following information is condensed from a commercial
letter, dated Belfast, Wednesday, and published ia the Berry
Standard : —

" Though the progress of harvest operations hag been nearly
all that could be wished, both as to the quantity of grain saved
and the favourable condition in which it has been gathered in,
no visible effect is yet perceptible in the trade of the country.
Somehow we do not find any advance in mercantile confidence.
Consumers seem afraid to purchase large stocks, and thus a
sort of impolitic caution keeps business down to the lowest
point. True it is, the Asiatic plague sweeps on its way, bring-
ing down hundreds of useful lives, and creating distress in the
homes of numberless families. That one cause, no doubt, pro-
duces much of the inaction which presses so heavily on trade,
not only in the north of Ireland, but throughout all the com-
mercial relations of the united kingdom. That destroyer tells,
in language not to be mistaken, that the moral as well as the
mercantile, the physical as well as tbe political, require the
hand of reform.

" The agricultural produce of this season in Ireland will
fully reabze £10,000,000 sterling above that of last year. Let
a portion of th:it vast sum be expended in making more com-
fortable the homesteads of labourers. Farmers and manufac-
turers, landowners and capitalists, are one and all far more
interested in the health of the people around them than many
appear to understand.

" Ireland's flax crop, though occupying a much smaller space
of ground than that of last season, is turning out so large in
point of yield, that the total produce will likely exceed that of
the former year ; and the quality of the fibre is very superior.
The yarn trade has been so dull for some weeks that it maybe
feared in a short time it will become general. Daring the last
six months millowners must have suffered very severely from

the high prices of flax, of coal, and of wages, as compared with
the high prices current of linen yarns. Amid all the dulness
prevalent in nearly every description of business, we find the
public securities of the nation — Consols, Bank stock, and rail-
way shares — in a very healthy condition ; and yet trade, in
general, is not at all equal to what it was six weeks ago. At
that time the linen manufactures looked brighter, there was
more spirit in the cotton trade, and, altogether, the commerce
of the country exhibited every prospect of improvement.

" It is possible, however, that the lateness of the harvest
may have much to do with the present depression ; and, as
the great mass of the cereals is now almost gathered in, hopes
are entertained that the October trade will, in some degree,
make up for present dulness. Coal has risen in price, and, to
all appearance, will be high during the winter. Grain is about
Is. per 1121bs. above the rates of last week ; etlll markets are
cheaper in Belfast than in Philadelphia. This day fortnight
prime brands of flour sold at 38s. 4d. per brl. and wheat was
8s. 4d. per bush. Demand Is more than equal to supply, both
in that city and in New York.

" Potatoes are very high In the Belfast markets, and by
retail prices range from 8d. to lOd. per st. Last week a vessel
from the north of England brought a cargo of potatoes to our
quay, and at the same time another ship was being laden with
the variety called ' M'Mullens,' for our friends on the other
side of the channel.

" The local railways work satisfactorily. Shares In Irish
railways, as a whole, sell at higher rates, In proportion to the
paid-up capital, than those of the Scottish lines. Dublin and
Kingstown, probably the most successful railway In the world,
pays a very large percentage, and the shares are current at
£70 premium. Ulster Railway shares sell at £60, on £49
paid."

TAMWORTH AGRICULTURAL CHEMISTRY ASSOCIATION.

The following table contains the result of experi-
ments made by members of the above society,
during the months of February and March, 1854,
as to the expediency of feeding sheep with or with-
out artificial food, and the proper quantity of cake
to be given to each sheep per day.

The different lots belonging to each person were

kept upon the same kind of food for one month
previously to their being put upon trial ; and during
the experiment were all kept in open pens upon the
same field, and equal in regard to shelter. Each lot
contained five sheep.

Mr. Bourne's and Mr. May's sheep were bred by
themselves ; those of Mr. Dormer were purchased,

352

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

Mr. Bourne's and Mr, Dormer's were two-year-old I faced. The turnips were cut, and given in
wethers, Mr. May's one year old, and all black- I troughs.

Total weight

when put on

trial.

Total weight at

the end of two

months.

p a

Weight of tur-
nips to each
sheep per days

«4-l

O U

Observations,

1:3

No. 1

lbs,
793

lbs,
957

lbs.
164

lbs.
18^

1 lb.

Sold at Tamworth Fair, Cost in turnips o 18 o
on the 27th March, at " """^^ "^ ^^ ^
68s. per head. £i u 8

No. 2

794

950

156

181

f lb.

Cost in turnips 0 18 0

oold same day, at 67s. „ cake o 12 e

6d, per head ^^ j^ 6

No. 3

796

939

143

18i

4 1b.

Cost in turnips 0 18 0

Sold same day, at 68s, „ cake 0 8 4
per head ^^ ^ ^

^'6.4

791

933

142

184

ilb.

OflFered 64s. per head. Cost in turnips 0 18 0

and sold a week later at " "^^^ " ^ ^

64s. 6d. * £12 2

No. 1

602

660

None.
Jib.

No. 2

625

719

In this experiment it will be observed that the lot
No 1, fed on turnips only, were much smaller sbeep
than the other lots, and consequently could not be
expected to make as much progress, even if they had
been fed the same.

No. 3

661

789

128

174

4 lb.

No. 4

730

852

122

174

fib.

No. 1

551

660

109

214

None.

No. 2

563

687

124

4 lb.

No. 3

555

656

101

174

fib.

In this case the lot No. 3 did not feed regularly;
and one of them was unwell. In his subsequent cal-
culations, therefore, Mr. May has not compared them,
as he did not consider them a fair proof.

* This lot, though only 6 lbs. lighter than No, 3, were not considered to be of so good a quality,
and consequently were sold at considerably less money.

Mr. May calculates that (taking 4-7ths of the
gross increase as nett) his first lot gained 62 lbs, of
mutton, v/hich, at 7d. per lb., would amount to
£1 16s. 2d. or lOfd. per head per week. The
second lot, 71 lbs., £2 Is, 5d. or 12jd, per head per

week. And the third lot, 58 lbs,, to £1 13s, lOd.
or lOd, per head per week, Mr, Bourne's and Mr.
Dormer's show a greater increase, which might
naturally be expected from their being a year older.
Reckoning, therefore, that Mr. May's lot No 2

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

353

gained 9lbs .more mutton than No. 1, and eat 11 J
cwt. of turnips less, and 1 J cwt. of cake more, the
balance will be as under, supposting l-3rd of the
artificial food to be valued as manure.

No. 2. Cr. 9 lbs. of mutton at 7d... 0 5 3
Hi cwt. of turnips at 7s. per ton 0 3 Hi

Dr. Ig: cwt. of cake at 10s.,
deducting 1 -3rd as manure

0 9 2^

0 8 4

Balance in favour of cake 0 0 10 j

Again, if No. 1 without cake eat 4| lbs. of turnips
daily more than No. 2, a crop of turnips weighing
20 tons would keep only 15 sheep per acre, wi7/iOM^
cake, for twenty weeks, but would keep 19 sheep,
with i lb. cake each daily, for the same period. It
will be seen, however, that this calculation does not
apply to Mr. Dormer's sheep, those which had cake
eating more turnips than those which had none.

The general result of the experiment goes to
show that ^ lb. of cake daily is the best quantity
for each sheep, or say 1 lb. of cake to about 36 lbs.
of turnips. Mr. Haywood recommended 1 lb. of
cake to 40 lbs. of turnips.

In calculating the value of cake, the superior
quality of the wool, and the generally improved
condition and healthfulness of the sheep should
also be considered.

Tamworth, 1854.

ON OVERFEEDING.

Sir, — It seems to me that one of the rules of some of
the local societies in the north might be successfully ap-
plied by our Royal Agricultural Society, to check the
overfeeding of breeding-stock for the purpose of exhi-
bition. Amongst the local societies in Scotland with
which I am personally acquainted, the following regula-
tion is very common — That no prize can be claimed by
an exhibiter for any breeding cow, unless he prove to
the satisfaction of the committee that the said cow has
had a calf that year. And with other societies it is,
that the cow shall be proved to have a calf during the
spring following the summer of exhibition. This pre-
vents cows being exhibited year after year, which, from
their excessive fatness, are useless for breeding purposes.
One of your correspondents, writing in defence of full
feeding, says that it does not prevent the cows being
useful : but I have seen many valuable cows consigned
to the butcher on account of their being overfat for bear-
ing or rearing stock. And all the practical farmers of
my acquaintance, who keep shorthorns, agree that
nothing destroys the usefulness of their herds so much as
over-condition. There was an instance mentioned, I
think, in your columns, of an English breeder, who for
some time had only two calves from seven cows. It is

certainly my opinion, founded upon considerable expe-
rience, that fat frequently does hide faults. It is a con-
stant expression with farmers, speaking of a lean beast,
" He is a little rough ; but when once in good condition,
he won't be a bad-looking beast." By enforcing the
above regulation, those breeders who choose to keep
their cattle in a useless state of fatness would be pre-
vented taking prizes, and they would soon discover how
to keep their beasts in breeding condition. I know a
short-horned breeder whose cows are very regular with
their calving, and they are quite fat enough to please the
eye of any fastidious judge of shorthorn beauty. Why,
if one person can do it, should not another ? that is, so
keep their cows that they do not offend the eye by their
excessive fatness, but be in such condition as to show the
points to advantage without losing their usefulness?
Hoping that it may prove practicable to apply this regu-
lation in a useful manner in England, I remain, yours,
Bath, Sept. 22nd. G. B. Blanc

POINTS OF AN AYRSHIRE COW.

Would you know how to judge a good Ayrshire cow.

Attend to the lesson you'll hear from me uow : —

Her head should be short, and her muzzle good size ;

Her nose should be fine between muzzle and eyes ;

Her eyes full and lively ; forehead ample and wide ;

Horns wide, looking up, and curved inwards beside ;

Her neck should be a fine, tapering wedge,

And free from loose skin on the undermost edge :

Should be fine where 'tis joined with the seat of the brain j

Long and straight overhead, without hollow or mane ;

Shoulder-blades should be thin, where they meet at the top ;

Let her brisket be light, nor resemble a crop ;

Her fore-part recede like the lash of a whip,

And strongly resemble the bow of a ship ;

Her back short and straight, with the spine well defined.

Especially where the back, neck, and shoulders are joined ;

Her ribs short and arched, like the ribs of a barge ;

Body deep at the flanks ; and milk veins full and large ;

Pelvis long, broad, and straight, and, in some measure, flat ;

Hook-bones wide apart, and not bearing much fat ;

Her thighs deep and broad, neither rounded nor flat ;

Her tail long and fine, and joined square with her back ;

Milk-vessels capacious, and forward extending ;

The hinder part broad, and to body fast pending ;

The sole of her udder should form a plane.

And all the four teata equal thickness attain.

Their length not exceeding two inches or three;

They should hang to the earth perpendicularly ;

Their distance apart, when they're viewed from behind.

Will include about half of the udder you'll find ;

And, when viewed from the side, they will have at each end

As much of the udder as 'tween them is penned;

Her legs should be short, and the bones fine and clean.

The points of the latter being firm and keen ;

Skin soft and elastic as a cushion of air,

And covered all o'er with short close woolly hair ;

The colours preferred are confined to a few—

Either brown and white chequered, or all brown, will do ;

The weight of the animal, leaving the stall.

Should be about 5 cwt. sinking oflfal.

—Celt in Irish Farmer's Gazette.

334

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

BB— .^SUBUa

-s

very fast,
plot, but
;d.

Sept. 16,1
St. Second!

wly. Sept.B
g very fast.

Sept. 16,
Third best

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00 05

I'HE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

*rhe sort of turnips— Green rounds^ drilled in
rows, near two feet distant, and well hoed. The
land clean, and in a high state of cultivation.

Note, — The result of these experiments goes to
prove that on turnip land of this character neither
insoluble phosphates nor unformed ammouiacal salts
will answer so well for the turnip plant as soluble
phosphates and ready-formed salts of ammonia ;
though there is a discrepancy between Nos. 3, 4,
8, and 10, which cannot be explained, except that
there was more chicken weed on Nos. 3 and 4.

It was intended that the materials of No. 6 should
have been mixed for some weeks before being used,
in order to have given time for the formation of
ammonia, as directed at page 220 in Haywood's
Letters to Farmers ; but the time would not allow
of this being done.

5 1 lbs. of soluble phosphoric acid can be obtained
by mixing 245 lbs. of ordinary bones with 100 lbs.
of cummon sulphuric acid, and 21 lbs. of free
ammonia by adding to it 95 lbs. of sulphate of
ammonia.

The turnips were inspected, weighed, and
reported on by Mr. Edward Farmer, and Mr. Farmer
Cheatle.

The quantities of ammonia and phosphates, and
the general result of the experiments, as' stated
above, were given by Mr. James Haywood, of
Sheffield, the late lamented lecturer and analyst to
the society. Thomas Argyle, Secretary.

REVIEW.

An Essay on the Cause and Cure of the Potato

EoT, By E. C. Roberts. Detroit: Michigan. Free

Democrat Print.

While we of the Old World have been attributing the potato
rot to fungi, insects, malaria, &c., &c., a farmer of the New
World, E. C. Roberts, discovered so early as 1846 that it arose
from " a violation of Nature's laws ;" and in order to certify
his discovery, he had recourse to a series of experiments during
that and the following six years— 1847, '48, '49, '50, '51, and
'52 — which fully bore out, we are informed, its soundness.
The pamphlet gives an account of each of those seven experi-
ments separately, and concludes by summing up the whole
with a few seasonable observations.

Mr. Roberts concludes that by removing potatoes from
the ground during winter less or more injury is sustained,
so that a continuation of the practice results in disease
or rot ; consequently his cure is to allow that portion of
the crop required for seed to remain in the ground during
winter, or rather he plants beds purposely for seed on dry
ground, which is just Nature's own plan in South America—
a plan which he himself has adopted and found effectual, all
traces of the disease haviug disappeared by the third year.

The laborious manner in which the Michigan experiments
were carried out by the author is deserving of special com-
mendation ; for during the progress of the crop, he examined
daily the seed roots and shoots arising from them, by care-
fully digging up 30 many on each occasion, and dissecting them

with all the seal of a morbid aaatomist. During these patho-
logical investigations, he found the old tuber always the first
affected, the disease rising upwards ; thus, as he observes, cor-
roborating the soundness of his theory. We are not certain if
we can subscribe to all the deductions of the writer, on this
head, without a more detailed account of facts than the
pamphlet contaius ; but his labours are highly deserving of
praise, and we shall be happy to hear further from him on the
subject.

There is nothing new in allowing potatoes to lie iu the
ground during winter, for it is upwards of thirty years since
we saw the practice tried, in order to improve the quality of
the root for spring use, those remaining in the ground
being much better than those stored in the usual way.
This fact, it will be perceived, is in favour of Mr. Roberts's
theory ; so that it is possible that the maturity of pota-
toes, especially seed, is a more difficult and important task
than is yet generally imagined. Also since 1846 the theory
has often been promulgated in this country ; but we believe
that Mr. Roberts will have no difficulty in establishing the
priority of his discovery, should its value recommend it to
general practice.

CUTTING CORN WITH THE SCYTHE.— On account
of the scarcity of agricultural labourers, the farmers in various
districts are turning their attention to the advisability of mow-
ing instead of reaping wheat. The Newcastle Farmers' Club
has not been slow, says the Gateshead Observer, to join in the
movement. Sir M. W. Ridley, Bart., its president, gave £5 to
be distributed in premiums for reaping wheat by the scythe ;
and £1 was added by another member, Mr. William Mather.
Mr. Wilham Stephenson, of Throkley House, offered a field of
wheat for the experiment, and it was arranged that the com-
petitors should each cut three-quarters of an acre, with the
long or short scythe ; the premiums to be awarded with due
consideration to the quality and rapidity of the work. Wed-
nesday, the 6th inst., was appointed as the day of trial ; 19
competitors were entered, and 16 presented themselves in the
lists. One, a conservative rustic, came armed with the ancient
grass scythe ; two had adopted the improved implement; the
remainder bore the old Scotch. Mr, William Stephenson
marked out the field into allotments ; at nine the rival reapers
got to work. The first finished at 12,25 ; the second (a lad of
18, named Wm. Robson, in the service of Mr. Stephenson) at
12.33 ; three others at 12.36 ; two at 12.37 ; the rest from
that time to 12.48. The general feeling among the spectators
was one of confidence in the scythe, as an instrument more
expeditious and economical in its operation than the sickle,
Mr. Stephenson, of Driffield, has written to the same journal,
giving his opinion upon the comparative merits of scythe and
sickle cutting. He is decidedly in favour of the former, which,
he says, with all its imperfections, is far superior to reaping
with the sickle, whether as regards expense or expedition, and
much less time needed to fit the crop for stacking, the cleaning
the land of all the stubble, the less waste and the comparative
security from sprouting in wet weather. The disadvantages of
mowing are, that it takes more carrying home, more stacking,
thatching, &c.; but, perhaps, more than all, the difficulty with
you would be of getting it well threshed, and this would re-
quire alteration in the threshing machines. One of the evils of
reaping by the sickle is packing the ears in the sheaf too closely,
and tying it too tightly. This, with the scythe, is in a great
measure avoided. In a wet harvest of the year 1816, before
Mr, Stephenson was a convert to the scythe, he says: — "I well
remember the immense difference in the damage to the grain

356

THE FARMER^S MAGAZINE.

between that reaped and that mowa, and that the mown wheat
was ready to carry some days before the reaped, aud when
taken to market was several shillings a quarter more valuable."
He adds : — " On three or four occasionB I have sent twenty-
four people into a wheat field of as many acres, growing on an
average from sixteen to twenty bolls an acre, and the whole
was finished (with the exception of a very few acres' raking)
before they ever left the field, and in three days the whole was
in stack, scarcely an ear being left behind."

SITTYTON ANNUAL SALE OF SHORTHOKNS,—
The thirteenth annual sale of Mr. Cruickshank's shorthorned
bull calves (from three to seven months old) came off on
Thursday, the 14th instant, and, as usual, was well attended.
The day was extremely fine, and the extensive herd of short-
horns on the farm presented a beautiful appearance. Mr.
Elrick officiated as auctioneer, in his usual impartial manner.
The following are the prices obtained for each lot, and the
purchasers : —

Ijot 1 Red 26 gs. Mr. Brown, Bankhead

2 Red 27 Mr. Brown, Atholhill

3 Roan .... 36 Mr. Robertson, Ireland

4 White 17 Mr. Black, Linhead

5 White.... 26 Mr. Heriot, Fifeshire

6 Roan 29 Mr. Walker, Balmoor

7 Roan .... 27 Mr. Gumming, Corthiemuir

8 Roan 50 Mr. Bruce, Ardiffery

9 White,... 18 Mr. Anderson, Auchnieve

10 Red 26 Mr. Ironside, Breeme

11 Roan 34 Mr. Maitland, Muirton

12 Red 57 Mr. Campbell, Kinnellar

13 Roan .... 30 Mr. Johnstone, Drumwiudle

14 White.... 19 Mr. Lumsden, Pitbee

15 Roan.... 15 Mr. Argo, Braeside

16 Red 34 Mr. Mitchell, Haddo

17 Roan .... 29 Mr. Maitland, Insch

18 Red 24 Mr. Donald, Couliehare

19 Roan .... 27 Mr. Walker, Tillymaud

20 Roan 20 Mr. Mitchell, Kirkton of Slains

21 Red 37 Mr. Reith, Chapeltod

22 Red 20 Mr. Harvey, Pi tgersie

23 Roan .... 19 Mr. Lumsden, Pitbee

24 Roan .... 27 Mrs. Benton, Auchincreive

25 Roan .... 22 Mr. Moir, Knockhall

26 Red 19 Mr. Anderson, Kirkton of Logie

27 Roan .... 27 Mr. Davidson, Cairnbogie

28 Roan.... 19 Mr. Turnbull, Lochend

29 White,... 15 Mr. Thompson, Mameulah

30 White 20 Mr. Thompson, Broombrae

33 Red & wh. 25 Mr. Henderson, Pitcow

34 Roan .... 19 Mr. Allan, Bodachra.
'— Aberdeen Journal.

ELLINGTON.— Stock Sale.— The sale of shorthorns,
the property of Wm. Ladds, Esq., took place here on Wed-
nesday, and attracted a numerous and highly respectable com-
pany from various parts of the kingdom, amongst whom we
observed his Grace the Duke of Manchester; Lord Viscount
Mandeville, M.P. ; Edward Fellowes, Esq., M.P. ; James
Bust, J. B. Rooper, J. M. Heathcote, P. Tillard, J. T. Baum-
gartuer, M.D., W. Gatty, J. Welstead, A. Welstead, S. Hill,
C. Veasey, jun., P. Purves, J. Mann, J. Warsop, T. George,
Esqs., of the county ; J. S, Tanqueray, W. Sweetlands, Esqs,,
of Hendon ; J. S. Crawley, Esq., of Stockwood Park, Beds. ;
F. F. Hallet, and J. Dyson, Esqs., of Brighton ; W. B. Stop-
ford, Drayton ; R. Stopford; 3 Yorkes (Thrapston), Ward,
Northamptonshire ; Townshend, Sapcote Field ; W. Driver,
Desbourgh, Leicestershire ; W, Billiatt, J. Burgess, W. San-
day, Holme Pierrepoint, Notts. ; C. Barnett, Stratton Park ;

Martin, Littleport ; Fowler, Henlow, Richardson (Chattferis)
Eaqs.; Revs. F.Thursby, Abingdon ; J. Duncombe Shafto,B.
Puckle, J. Potter, F. Johnson, Hemington ; and Messrs.
Porter, Jepson (Agent to Abel Smith, Esq.), Fyson, W.
Gray (Agent to Sir C. Wake), Bland, Henson, Judkins,
Holloway, Abbey, (Wellingborough), R. Crawley, C. Lewin,
Fairy, and most of the leading agriculturists of the neigh-
bourhood. Shortly after twelve o'clock the company, which
numbered, it is, supposed, between 300 and 400, were invited
to luncheon in a spacious barn fitted up for the occasion, and
after doing ample justice to the good things provided by Mr.
Tjadds, the sale commenced, Mr. Strafford, of London, who
conducted it, prefacing the conditions with some remarks as to
Mr. Ladds having paid great attention to the improvement of
the breed for upwards of 30 years, nearly twenty of which he
had had the pleasure of knowing Mr. Ladds, and could hear
testimony to the great care bestowed in the selection of first-
class bulls, as well as to the general qualities of the animals,
namely, size, substance, and quality, not forgetting the miking
properties of the cows ; and Mr. Ladds was only induced to
disperse the herd in consequence of having quitted one of his
grass farms. There were 52 lots of cows and heifers, and
these realized £1,266 63,, some of them selling as high as 60
and 65 guineas. Of the bulls there were 12 in the catalogue,
but we believe ten only were sold, which realized £404 5s.,
Lord Chancellor leading off at 100 guineas. Autocrat at 50
guineas, and Puritan at 52 guineas, making the total amount
of the whole herd £1,711 lOa. — Cambridge Chronicle.

SUSTAINING QUALITIES OF DIFFERENT KINDS
OF FOOD. — The cereal grains contain the largest proportion
of flesh-and-blood-producing material, and among those grains
wheat is predominant. But the actual quantity of nutriment
even in wheat is much less than is generally supposed ; that
portion of the grain which is converted into muscular fibre not
exceeding fourteen per cent, of the whole. When, however,
we compare the nutritious qualities of wheat with those of po-
tatoes, the former stands very high in the scale, and the latter
sinks BO low as seemingly to justify the anathemas of Cobbett.
In the first place, seventy-six per cent, of the weight of pota-
toes consists of water, from which no nourishment whatever is
derived ; and of the remaining twenty-four parts, only two per
cent, consist of nutriment. The result of the examination of
the comparative values of potatoes and wheat as articles of food,
proves that the latter not only contains a larger proportion of
nutriment, but a proportion so great as to exceed the difference
in their price, and that it is cheaper to feed men on good
wheaten bread than on potatoes, if both be used exclusively of
other articles of diet. — Professor Bentley,

PROGNOSTICATIONS OF THE WEATHER.— Mr.
Thomas Best, of the Ordnance Survey, has published a prog-
nostication of the weather till January next, dated at Darling-
ton, the 14th September current, in the following terms : —
October — A fine month for the season ; some rain between the
9th and 16th, then gradually fine till the 22nd, then wet and
windy till the 25th or 26th, then fine till the end. November
— Fine at the beginning, then rain from about the 7th, stormy
weather commences about the 17th, and is likely to continue
till the 24th; then moderate till the end. December-
Changeable weather till about the 7th, then rain but calm
weather till about the I6th ; then very changeable with cold
wind, and some fall about the 21st, probably snow ; then frost
from about the 24th till the end.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

^5?

AGRICULTURAL REPORTS.

GENERAL AGRICULTURAL REPORT FOR
SEPTEMBER.

The accounts which have reached us from nearly
all parts of the United Kingdom, in reference to the
•produce of the wheat crop, fully bear out the obser-
vations on this head contained in our last month's
report. The quantity of wheat as yet thrashed out
is small, arising from the growers almost generally
being now much engaged in ploughing and sowing,
and the scarcity of labour ; yet sufficient has trans-
pired to enable us to verify all the leading points of
the report in question. Even on the light and most
badly-cultivated lands, as much as five quarters per
acre have been grown this year; and we consider
that we are under the mark in estimating the increase
in the total growth, compared with 1853, at seven
million quarters. This, certainly, is an enormous
quantity, but it ivill all be required for consump-
tion, and all calculations approaching a very low
range of value will not, in our opinion, be realized.
It follows, therefore, that a most valuable crop has
been produced, and one which the farmers will not
needlessly hurry to market. The state of the trade
abroad indicates that we are likely to have very
moderate importations for a considerable period.
The yield of barley is large, but its general colour
is by no means good ; yet, from the abundance of
the crop, no doubt malting samples will be suffi-
ciently plentiful during the season. Oats are turn-
ing out well, but both beans and peas are a short
crop. There are, we find, a few stacks of old wheat
yet to be met with, in some counties ; but the actual
quantity must be trifling, when compared with some
corresponding seasons. However, the fine condi-
tion in which the new wheats have been harvested,
renders it unnecessary for the millers to purchase
either oldEng'iish or foreign wheats largely ; hence,
new samples are now worth nearly, or quite, as much
as old ones.

In many parts of the country, moisture is much
required for agricultural purposes; and the progress
of sowing has not been so rapid as we have witnessed
in some former periods. However, the season must
be considered a remarkably fine one, and a few wet
days would now be productive of a great amount of
benefit to the root crops. As regards turnips, we
may intimate that they have grown well, allowing
for the comparative dryness of the weather ; but we
are apprehensive that the weight of the entire crop
will fall short of last year. Carrots stand in need
of wet, especially on light soils. We have now to

consider potatoes. On this head, reports of a most
contradictory character have reached us. Some of
our correspondents state that the disease has made
sad havoc amongst both the early and latter crop ;
others, that very few instances of rot are to be met
with. Having ourselves caused the most extensive
inquiries to be made on the subject, we candidly
confess that we see no reason whatever to alter the
opinion we have already expressed, viz., that the
growth will prove considerably larger than last year,
and that the root will keep well during the winter.
A close examination of the immense supplies which
have been forwarded for metropolitan consumption
from Yorkshire, Essex, Kent, and various other
counties, has proved to our' minds that we have
grown one of the best crops on record. Instances
may, of course, be met with, in which losses have
been sustained ; but our decided impression is that
the supply grown will be found fully equal to our
wants until the spring. The same observations
may, we consider, be applied to Ireland and Scot-
land; hence, it follows that a very large surplus will
be shipped to England in the course of the winter.
In the former country, large speculative purchases
are about to be made for the London market, and
we should not be surprised to find the trade become
of great magnitude in after years. On the continent,
the supplies grown appear to be very abundant,
especially in France and Holland, whilst we have
good authority for stating that their quality is ex-
cellent.

The second cut of hay has turned out light, and
the quantity of grass at this time in the pastures is
small. We apprehend, therefore, that breeders of
stock will be compelled to make large inroads upon
their stock of hay some time before the usual period.
Both beasts and sheep, however, have continued
free from disease ; but we regret to find that such
vast numbers of them have been forced for sale in
little better than a half-fat state, and at a time, too,
when prices are very high. It really ought to be-
come a serious question with both breeders and
feeders— more particularly with the latter — whether
they would not better consult their future interests
by holding back a portion of their supphes until
they shall have become more fitted for butchers'
purposes. The small suppUes of dry food on hand
may act as an inducement to immediate sales ; but
we feel convinced that the present system is a wrong
one, because it is next to an impossibility that meat
will become cheaper than it is at present. A very

B B

8S8

THiE FARMEE^S MAGAZINE.

moderate calculation will show the relative cost of
making an animal fat, or, at least moderately so, in
a given time, and the difference between its present
and future value. Some parties may contend that we
shall be overwhelmed with importations from abroad.
That can scarcely be the case, as the Dutch graziers
are not in a position to increase their shipments ;
and even if we were, from the fact that lean Eng-
lish stock comes into competition with foreign stock
of a similar character, it must be clear that the lower
kinds of meat must, in the event of the present state
of things continuing, be sold at a much relatively
lower figure than the best qualities—in other words,
the graziers are absolutely losing large sums of
money, when Ihey might otherwise realize much
larger profits.

There has been rather more business doing in
nearly all kinds of English wool, and prices have
had an upward tendency. The imports of foreign
and colonial have been on a liberal scale, whilst the
sale for them has been very inactive at last month's
currency.

The growth of hops has turned out a complete
failure. Picking has been commenced ; but the
duty has been done as low as £50,000. New hops
have, therefore, commanded high rates, viz., from
£]8 to £23 per cwt., and a considerable rise has
taken place in the value of yearlings. The import
of foreign hops has been very large, about 7,000
bales having come in during the month, to be
followed, \VQ understand, by about a similar quan-
tity in October.

The crop of seeds has turned out most abundant,
and the fine weather has enabled the growers to
secure it in the best possible condition. Winter
tares have sold briskly at 10s. per bushel. Other
seeds have been dull. The war with Russia led to
several large contracts being entered into for the
shipment of linseed from the sea of Azofi and from
India. These supplies are nov>^ coming to hand ;
but the fall in prices, contrary to expectation, is
calculated to leave rather a heavy loss to the im-
porters. There has been a good business doing in
hnseed and rape-cakes, yet the quotations have had
a downward tendency. In Ireland and Scotland
farm labours have progressed steadily; but the
season is looked upon as somewhat backward. The
growth of all grain is proving large, and of very
fine quality.

REVIEW OF THE CATTLE TRADE
DURING THE PAST MONTH.

Compared with several previous months, the
supplies of beasts and sheep on offer in our leading
cattle markets have been large ; but their general
quahty has proved very inferior— especiaUy the
beasts. This circumstance, whilst it has tended to

decrease the quality of food, has had the effect of
keeping good meat scarce and dear. When, how-
ever, we consider the small quantity of hay pro-
duced in most parts of the country in 1853,
and the inferior quality of the growth in most
grazing districts, together with the falling off
in the root crops, these features in the trade have
failed to excite any surprise ; indeed, we ourselves
have previously referred to them as indicative of
rather a high range in the value of stock during
the whole of the present year. Dissatisfaction has
been expressed, by the consumers, at present prices,
and many of them contend that the free importation
of foreign stock ought to reduce them to a much
lower point. But here, again, we have the same
difficulty to contend with as regards home-supplies,
viz., the miserably low condition in which the
animals have come to hand. Large numbers,
unless with a corresponding amount of meat, will
never reduce the prices of prime stock ; and the
difference between the value of the most inferior
and the best breeds in Smithfield is now not less
than threepence per stone. This wide range in the
quotations, however, is far from satisfactory to con-
sumers in poor localities, because it has been found
that even the lowest priced meat, from the great
proportion of bone, is relatively dearer than the
best quahties. The state of Smithfield, in respect
to the weight of meat shown in it this month, may
be thus exemplified : On the 18th inst. there was
shown one of the largest supphes of beasts and
sheep almost ever known at any corresponding
period ; yet, from a fair calculation made by us, the
beasts did not average more than £16 10s. each.
This supply, be it observed, was referred to by
some daily contemporaries as being a most won-
derful show, and as being equal to a Christmas
market. The absurdity of such observations must
be obvious when we state that a more inferior
market has seldom been seen, and that we have
known the beasts sold on a Great Day to have
averaged £25 and, frequently, £26 each ! We deem
it necessary to make these observations, because
consumers do not appear to be aware of the causes
which have led to the present enhanced value of
meat, and because they are strong in their expres-
sions in reference to the so-called forestalling ol the
market. Doubtless, the system of buying up large
numbers of stock in the provinces in very little
more than a half-fat state acts prejudicially to the
supplies at future periods. The presence of large
speculators in many localities is frequently an in-
ducement to the glaziers to part with stock which
otherwise would have been kept back for several
months, and, if healthy, gained a considerable
quantity of meat in the time ; but ready-money, and
the getting rid of all expenses immediately the

tME FARMER^S MAGAZINE.

sad

stock leaves the farms, act as a great inducement
for the breeders and feeders to sell. It likewise
saves the expense of a journey to the metropolis;
as numerous graziers themselves, when they have
from 20 to 30 beasts to dispose of, have made it a
point to sell in Smithfield, under the impression
that they have obtained better prices than expe-
rienced salesmen.

On the whole, the cattle trade has been in a
healthy state since we last wrote, although at one
time the quotations showed a tendency to decline.
In the value of calves numerous fluctuations have
taken place, and prices have ruled extremely low,
owing to the prevalence of cholera in the metropolis :
at least three-fourths of the calves have sold for
country consumption.

The imports of foreign stock into the metro-
polis have been as follow : — Head.

Beasts 7,805

Sheep 26,230

Lambs 748

Calves 1,894

Pigs . . 2,281

IMPORTS AT CORRESPONDING PERIODS.
Sept. Beasts. Sheep. Lambs, Calves. Pigs.

1S53 8,372.. 28,845.. 273. . 2,535. . 1,498

1852 6,619. . 34,759. . 1,132. . 2,388. . 1,847

1851 .... 6,177. . 28,566. . 2,075. . 2,518. . 1,994

1850 5,556.. 19,802.. 1,939.. 1,819.. 752

1849 .... 4,214.. 17,649.. 734.. 734.. 428

1848 4,301. . 18,000. . 3,681. . 1,625. . 55

1847 4,000.. 14,000.. 683. . 1,362. . 270

The total supplies exhibited in Smithfield have
been as under : — Head.

Beasts > , 24,896

Cows 542

Sheep and lambs 174,171

Calves 2,760

Pigs 3,465

COMPARISON OF SUPPLIES.

Beasts. Cows, ^^ambs"^ ^*^^^'- -^'Ss.

1849 19,868 . .447. . 168,350. . 2,080. . 1,957

1850 22,212. . 475. . 173,450. . 2,491. . 2,639

1851 23,007. . 600. . 169,390. . 2,220. . 3,447

1852 24,911 . . 490. . 148,680. . 2,924. . 2,980

1853 27,063. . 518. . 157,750. . 3,037. .3,170

From the northern grazing districts about 10,000
short-horns have come to hand. The arrivals
from other parts of England have been 2,300 of
various breeds. From Scotland only 153 head
have reached us. Beef has sold at from 3s. to 5s. ;
mutton, 3s. to 5s.; lamb, 4s. to 5s. 4d.; veal, 2s.
lOd. to 4s. 4d.; pork, 3s. 4d. to 4s. 8d. per 8 lbs.,
to sink the oflFals.

COMPARISON OF PRICES.

Sept., 1850.
s. d. s. d.
Beef . . from 2 4 to 3 8
Mutton .... 32 40

Veal 2 10 3 8

Pork 3 2 4 0

Sept., 1851.
s. d. s. d.
2 2 to 3 6
2 8 4 0
2 8 3 8
2 4 3 8

Sept., 1852. Sept., 1853.

s. d. s. d. s. d. s. d.

Beef ..from 20 40.... 2 10 46

Mutton 30 46.... 32 52

Veal 2 10 4 2 3 6 4 8

Pork 2 10 3 10 3 4 5 2

In Newgate and Leadenhall the trade has ruled
heavy, on the following terms :— Beef, from 3s. to
4s. 6d.; mutton, 3s. to 4s. 8d.; veal, 2s. lOd. to
4s. 2d.; and pork, 3s. 4d. to 4s. 8d. per Slbs. by
the carcase.

MID KENT.

The very fine weather which followed after the second week
in August enabled us to cut and carry every handful of corn in
excellent order, and to do many other jobs which the somewhat
showery character of the early part of summer prevented being-
done ; for instance, our hop gardens and fruit piantatiou?^
which were getting weedy, have been thoroughly cleaned : and
it is not too much to say, that the beneficial effects of the last
few weeks of dry weather will be felt hereafter, as well as at
present ; for many of our hardy fruit trees were so injured by
the late cold weather of spring, as well as frosts then, that they
threatened to be no longer useful ; but the late weather has
improved them much, and no doubt but healthier trees have
equally benefited by it, and have set their embryo buds in such
strength as forms more than half the work to next year's suc-
cess : for I hold that more than one-half the failures we have
that way, arises from the fact of the bloom being either defi-
cient in vital energy, or probably defective in some other of its
parts ; for I have known tolerably good crops of fruit from
blossom that had undergone some severe weather in spring,
but its robustness carried it through. However, as my purpose
is more to describe things as they are now than chronicle the
past, I may say that many of our orchards turn out better than
they were expected to do, the fruit being tolerably good, what
there is, and what has been gathered comes down well ; but
one serious drawback is in the extraordinary number of wasps
with which we have been troubled, as well as black flies, and,
what is almost worse than either, the little pests called in com,
mon parlance the " fly golding," a small red-backed insect very
common where hops are cultivated, and looked upon here as a
great boon in destroying the fly and other insects which are so
destructive to the hop in the early summer months. These
pests united have occasioned us much loss, and that too of the
best fruit. This, and the drawback which attends certain
fruits, as plums, in a season like this, when people are afraid
to partake of them, operate sadly against us fruit growers, who
have our living to get mostly by that means ; and as plums
have especially been pointed at as forbidden fruit, the loss has
been severe on those who depended on them as an important
part of their income, the crop being good and all. 1 may add
that the filberts are far from good, and apples anything but
plentiful; and our hops, which are now in course of being
picked, are not bo good as they promised to be before picking
time, and there are many acres from whicjj not a single pound
will be gathered : those which seem to the eye to be good, are,
on closer inspection, not so well as they look to be ; conse-
quently the quantity of really good will be very small indeed.
Picking is now general, but will noWast long, the most for-
tunate growers having but few, while some have none at all.
It is cousolitary, however, to know that most things else in the
farming way are prosperous. Turnips look well where they
were sown early in the season ; but there &e few stubble tur*

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360

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

nips, which are usually much depended on in this country ; the
late harvest and dry weather operated against them, but we
have some very promising on land that potatoes were taken up
from. I am sorry to say the potatoes have become very much
diseased since they were taken up and stowed away, but on the
whole they are not worse than last year, and I hear of some
parcels escaping the disease altogether. Catile carrots,
mangel wurzel, and other roots, are tolerably good ; and the
sarre may be said of drumhead cabbages, while the second crop
of clover has not been so heavy as I have seen sometimes ; but
grass has been tolerably abundant, and sheep and cattle have
done better on it than when there has been more, as was wit-
nessed last year, when the continuous rain so charged it with
watery juices, that its feeding properties were much impaired,
whde in the present season it has been good. However, the
wet weather in the middle of July spoiled much hay in hand
then ; but with the exception of our hops (which, by-the-bye,
is our right hand in preparing to meet our landlords) we must
not grumble at anything else. — A, N. G, — Sept. 20.

SOMERSETSHIRE,

We have now been able to test our produce, which by no
means realizes the high expectations formed by some parties —
for instance, 20 acres, estimated at 40 bushels per acre, yielded
on thrashing about 530, or little over 26 bushels per acre; this
may be hoped to be rather an extreme case ; it was in an
early fine wheat district. From many instances of less produce
than was expected, and very few of coming up to it, an im-
pression is evidently gaining ground that the total quantity pro-
duced is considerably less than was anticipated. The quality
is much more likely to come up to the mark, as 64 and 64Jlbs.
have been already ascertained in fine nursery samples, and 63
to 641bs. are often realized. Our red wheat is the best in
quality, and best harvested ; we never knew the quality much
better. Barley is belter in quality, and some fine first-rate
samples, weighing 52 to 561b3. per bushel, have been shown.
Beans are very prime and heavy. We have heard no com-
plaint of yield ; they are well harvested, particularly the winter-
sown ; very few spring-sown cut. Oats very fair, and quality
good. Vetches were not much sown, and they are, as yet,
very scarce ; they began at 8s., and are now worth Qs., with a
shortsupply. New white wheat has beenboughta3lowas6s.6d.:
this week 7s. 6d. would have been freely given, but there
were no sellers: our supply will very soon increase, if the price
keeps up. Flour went down as low as 383. to 40s. : it sold
this week as high as 463. : stock, from shortness of water,
very low ; indeed, both in millers' and bakers' hands the stock
of wheat and flour has not been lower than last week for years.
We think the present price safe. It may get up higher ; then
it will stand through the nest month; but it is likely, if wet
and damp before the end of November, that old and dry new
samples will be higher. Barley 33. 9d. to 43., without much
demand. New beans 5s. to 5s. 3d. extra. Our stock market
has been declining on sheep 53. to 6s. per head, and poor stock
30s. to 40s. Beef dull sale^ and only the best maintained
its price : for want of grass, the supply has beeu large ; but
now rather fallen oflf— 93.to lOs. 6d. per score. Mutton 6d. to
6^d. per lb.

age of wheat larger than last year. The yield per acre has so
gradually increased during the last few years, mainly through
the use of artificial manures, used as top-dressings, that until
we have more perfect statistical accounts it would be difficult
to define what is an average crop ; but the yield this year will
probably be found to exceed that of the previous one by from
12 to 15 per cent. Against this increase it must be borne in
mind that our farmers, who last year held a large portion of
old Wheat, are now quite cleared out ; and we are inclined to
estimate the stocks in the hands of the growers and millers in
this district rather below than above what they held imme-
diately after the harvest of 1853, whilst few of our merchants
hold a bushel of old. About one-sixth of the crop was hurried
up in indifferent order, which, however, will no doubt not be
thrashed out until the spring ; the remainder has been secured
in splendid condition. The new wheats are good in quality,
the berry being well filled and colour good. They are ranging
from 62 to 641b3. per bushel, but whenever a change of wea-
ther causes them to lose their present beautiful condition, we
do not expect we shall be able to effect shipments to exceed
62 to 62|lbs. per bushel. Barley has scarcely been thrashed
in sufficient quantity to enable us to speak with accuracy of
the yield. The early sown are unquestionably a large crop,
but we suspect the later ones will in many instances prove de-
ceptive and deficient ; and we fear from one-fourth to one-third
of the crop will prove unfit for malting purposes. We have
scarcely any of really handsome malting quality, the kernel
being generally of an unkind appearance, the skin coarse, and
colour bad; although in point of weight they are not deficient,
ranging from 53 to 561bs. per bushel, and we expect even the
grinding qualities will weigh fairly. Oats are not grown to
any extent in this neighbourhood ; the crop is well spoken of,
both as regards yield, quality, and weight. — Richakd
Dewing & Co., Sept. 20.

BURNHAM OVERT (NORFOLK).
Sir, — We beg to hand you our report upon the harvest,
which has been completed in this district about a fortnight.
Wheat has for the last two or three years been substituted for
barley, to some extent, upon the turnip lands, and the same
has beeu the case this year ; but we do not consider our acre-

TO FARMERS.— The Hereford Times mentions a farmer
who took up a fence after it had been standing fourteen years,
and found some of the posts nearly sound, and others rotted
off at the bottom. Looking for the cause, he discovered that
the posts which had been inverted from the way they grew
were solid, and those which had been set as they grew were
rotted off. This is certainly an incident worthy of being noted
by our farmers,

FARMERS, NOTE THIS,— In a cloudy morning, it is a
matter of importance to the farmer to know whether it will be
sunshiny or showery in the afternoon. If the ants have cleared
their hole nicely, and piled the dirt up high, it seldom fails to
bring a clear day to the farmer, though it may be cloudy till
ten or eleven o'clock in the forenoon. Spider-webs will be very
numerous about the tops of the grass and grain some cloudy
mornings ; and fifty years' observation has shown the writer
of this that these little weather-guessers seldom fail in their
predictions of a fair day,

NEW ACT ON THE INCLOSURE OF LAND.— An act
of parliament has just been issued (17 and 18 Vic, c, 97) to
amend and extend the acts for the inclosure, exchange, and im-
provement of land. By this act, which extend to 21 clauses, lands
about to be enclosed may be exchanged. Common rights are
to be ascertained, and until decided the money to be paid into
the bank. The Inclosure Commissioners are to ascertain the
interests of the several parties.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

3GI

METEOROLOGICAL DIARY.

Barometer.

Thermometer.

Wind and State.

...

Atmosphere.

Weat'r.

1854.

8 a.m.

10p.m.

Min.

Max.

10p.m.

Direction.

Force.

8 a.m.

2 p.m.

10p.m.

Aug.22

in. cts.

29.87

in. cts.
30.03

W. N. W.

lively

fine

sun

fine

dry

30.11

30.04

S. West

brisk

fine

cloudy

showery

29.99

29.98

S. West

lively

cloudy

fine

clear

dry

30.17

30.32

S. West

gentle

fine

sun

fine

dry

30.33

30.35

N. West

gentle

fine

sun

cloudy

dry

30.40

N. W. N.

calm

fine

cloudy

dry

30.45

N. by W.

calm

fine

sun

fine

dry

30.46

30.37

Easterly

gentle

fine

sun

fine

dry

30.32

30.20

3. Westerly

airy

fine

sun

clear

dry

30.20

30.25

N. East

airy

fine

sun

clear

dry

Sept, 1

30.30

E. by N.

brisk

fine

sun

fine

dry

30.32

30.35

52*

E. by N.

lively

fine

sun

clear

dry

30.39

30.35

East

lively

haze

sun

clear

dry

30.35

30.34

E. by South

lively

haze

sun

clear

dry

30.40

30.41

E. by North

gentle

haze

sun

clear

dry

30.40

30.27

N. and S. E.

gentle

haze

sun

clear

dry

30.27

30.22

N. East

lively

haze

sun

cloudy

dry

30.25

30.20

N. East

lively

fine

sun

fine

dry

30.20

30.18

N. East

gentle

fine

sun

clear

dry

30.19

E. N. E.

var.

haze

sun

clear

dry

30.19

30.14

Southly. byW.

var.

fog

sun

clear

dry

30.08

29.96

Southly.byW.

lively

fine

sun

cloudy

dry

29.95

29.85

Southly. by W.

Uvely

cloudy

rain

29.74

29.82

S. W. and W.

brisk

cloudy

rain

29.99

29.90

S. West

gentle

cloudy

sun

cloudy

dry

29.90

29.83

S. West

brisk

cloudy

fine

showery

29.83

29.93

S. West

fresh

fine

sun

fine

showery

30.10

30.08

S. West

strong

fine

cloudy

dry

30.02

30-05

S. West

var.

cloudy

—

29.99

30.01

S. W. and W.

var.

fine

cloudy

fine

showery

Estimated

Averages

September.

Barometer.
Highest Lowest.
30.41 29.410

Thermometer.

High. Low. Mean.

76 36 57.8

Real Average Temperature of the Period.

Highest.
71.83

Lowest.
54.4

Mean.
63.14

Weather and Phenomena.

August 22. Fine throughout j beautiful cumuh.
23. Very brisk shower; the final close of change-
able weather. 24. This day set in the unprece-
dentedly fine harvest weather of the summer.

Lunations.— New Moon, 23rd day, 6h. after-
noon. First quarter, 31st day, 6 h. 7 m. morning.

September 1 to 6 include six brilliant harvest
days. 7 to 11. Haze or fog every morning; with
the last day 9 came a total change of wind and of
temperature. 12. Close of the splendid period:
^leat in the sun 110 degs. ! 13. Moist, first gentle

rain. 14. Fine in general; shower. 15. Clouds
and gleams. 16. Close heat; some drizzle. 17.
Heavy shower, and a rainbow. 18. Fine forenoon,
then changeable. 19. Closely damp. 20. Fine
forenoon ; a heavy shower.

Lunations. — Full Moon, 6th day, 9 h. 18 m.
afternoon. Last quarter, 14th day, 6 h. 30 m.
morning.

Remarks connected with Agriculture.
— The table will speak for itself, and the whole
kingdom bears consentient evidence to the great
fact of " an enormous," as well as fine ingathering.
Food is abundant, and common gratitude requires
that prices should be very moderate. The gentle
showers that have fallen, in very limited quantities,
have still been of great use to the turnips, swedes,
mangel wurzel, and the grasses. The whole season
since 1st March has been marked by strong con-
trasts, but the good has predominated.

Croydon, Sept. 21,

J. Towers.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

CALENDAR OF AGRICULTURE.

This is a very busy month with the clay-land far-
mer in sowing v^heat. Seed-furrow the land as
fast as can be performed ; sow quickly ; have the
seed ready dressed and measured, steep it in stale
urine or salt water, and dry it with quicklime for the
drill machine, or sowing by hand ; cover by harrow-
ing, and draw the water-furrows in every day's
work.

Dig the potato crop with plough or forks, and
secure the roots in long ridges thatched with straw,
turf, or earth. Secure beet, parsnips, and carrots
in a similar way. Remove Swedish turnips from
lands to be sown with wheat, and plough these
lands, and sow quickly. The sowing of these
lands, and of clay land fallows, renders this month
a busy season with the wheat farmer.

Put rams to the ewes, 1 to 50, assorted by their
respective qualities ; mark each ram and the ewes
he serves, in order that the produce may be distin-
guished ; mark all ewes that are impregnated each
fortnight, which serves the purpose of a regular
lambing in the spring. Keep the ewes on good
pasture ; if it is bare, assist it by giving turnip-
tops. Allow the rams to remain six weeks with the
ewes.

Put live stock of all kinds to winter food, unless
the season be very favourable for remaining out all
night in the fields ; the feeding animals in twos and
fours together in yards provided with sheds, and the
store beasts in lots of six or eight together. Give
them fresh turnips daily, and litter amply. Let the
calves of this year have a comfortable yard, a supply

of fresh water, and a regular feeding with small
turnips and toj)s, and abundance of fresh straw
daily. Feed milch cows with cabbages and beet-
root, and with hay and chaff alternately.

On dry lands, as sand and chalks, fold the sheep
on the turnips, giving a fresh breadth daily; or cut
the turnips, and give them in troughs, folding the
sheep regularly on the ground behind. If the land
be damp and poachy, cart the turnips to a stubble
or grass field, and spread thinly and regularly over
the field ; in many cases this is the preferable way
of consuming the turnip crop. Give the lambs and
the feeding flock full and ample keep; the ewes
and store flock one half less, to keep them in fresh
condition.

Put swine to fatten, two in a sty together, and
use steamed food, potatoes, and meals ; give the
store pigs raw potatoes and light grains, and steamed
food occasionally. Have the steaming apparatus
in proper going order ; use steamed food for all
stock — horses, cows, and swine.

Anoint sheep during this month, to kill lice and
vermin ; use a bath of tobacco liquor, with extract
of tar, and apply one bottle of the mixture to a sheep.
Sheep are now dipped in Biggs's composition — a
chemical preparation, of which the patentee fur-
nishes the materials and necessary directions. It
is a valuable substitute.

Sow winter vetches for a late cutting in the
spring ; but early-sown sprhig vetches will often
come as soon ; but no farmer can have too many
acres of such a valuable succulent plant.

AGRICULTURAL INTELLIGENCE, EAIRS, &c.

BALLOCn HORSE FAIR was the best fair for the seller
that has been witnessed for many years. In young beasts the
seller had at least 5 per cent, of advantage, and in working-
beasts nothing under 10 per cent. Messrs. M'Kinlay, Climie,
Giffen, Warwick, &c., were the principal dealers in the market.
Mr. M'Kialay, who carried the top price, got £60 each for
two mares, one four and the other five years old. He also
received for three two-year-old draught fillies £110; and for
three twe-year-old mares from £46 to £48. Mr. Climie sold
several two-year-old colts at £35 each, and several work lots at
£45. Mr. M'Kinlay's good two-year-old colts carried from
£38 and upwards. Mr. Finlay, Butterick, sold a two-year-old
colt at £58, the highest price ever known to have been given
at Balloch fair for a similar animal. Useful work horses sold
at £30 to £40, being fully 5 per cent, under last year's prices.

BANBURY FAIR.— The supply of beef and mutton was
larger than usual. There were also some prime porkers, which
fetched good prices. Much of the beef was of very inferior
quality. The average prices were — Beef 4s, to 4s. 6d., mutton
43. to 43. Sr], per Etone. The horse fair was not so well sup..

plied as usual, and the animals for sale were mostly of a very
inferior description. Two ram sales took place in the sheep
fair. Messrs. Lyne and Cother disposed of 26 from the cele-
brated flock of Mr. Bull, of Drayton, the average of which was
nearly nine guineas. Mr. W. Bull, of Shipston-on-Stour, sold
twelve for Mr. Herrieff, of North Newington, the average of
which was 5| guineas.

BARNSTAPLE FAIR,— The supply of both bullocks and
sheep was large — far exceeding that of any previous fair, but
notwithstanding the large influx by the early train of agricul-
turists and dealers, very few changed hands until late in the
day, and then at a decline of fully £1 a head on bullocks from
the prices recently obtainable at the fairs in the neighbour-
hood ; a fact accounted for by the want of grass in the upper
districts, arising out of the long continuance of dry weather.
Some heavy showers fell in the morning, which seemed to re-
vive both the prices and spirit of the dealers. The horse fair
was well supplied, and among the number were some first-
rate animals. Fat bullocks sold for less than lOs. per score,
the average being from 10s. to lOs, 6d. Of cows and calves

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

86^

"there were but few on offer, and on them there was little or
no change from late values. Barreners from 6a. to Ts. per
score. Yearlings from £5 to £7 : two very fine ones were sold
early at £7 or £8 10s. each ; steers, from two and a half to
three years old, from £10 to £13 each. There were few above
three years old sold in the fair. £16 was asked for a fine
North Devon cow, but she remained unsold. There were
several bulls for sale ; those with no breed in them were
offered at from £13 to £14 each ; the higher breeds from £20
to £25. There was a lot of French or Guernsey cows, which
remained unsold at a late period of the fair. There were many
rams scattered through the fair, of very diverse qualities. A
lot of twenty passed under the hammer, by Mr. Manning, and
made from two guineas to £6; superior animals from £6 to
£8. Fat sheep were sold for a shade less than 6d , about Ss.
a head lower than at Bratton fair. Horns from 20s. to 25s.
each; Notts, fi-om 263. to 35s., according to quality. For
the best in the fair, fat, from 403. to 45s. was asked, and even
higher, but it did not transpire that these prices were realized.
The show of lambs merely nominal.

BEDALE FORTNIGHT FAIR.— We had a remarkably
small supply of stock, in consequence of Masham Fair being
held the same day. The great proportion of stock shown was
fat, which sold readily at late prices. Beef, 6s. 6d. to 7s. per
stone ; mutton, 6d. to 6|d. per lb,

DRIFFIELD FAIR. — It is many years since we witnessed
such a great number of sheep as on Tuesday last. There were
a few grazing beasts, but scarcely any fat ones offered. Prices
generally were lower than at last fair, and a great number were
turned out unsold. Lambs averaged from 28s. to 32s., and
ewes from 403. to 463. per head.

DUNDEE LATTER FAIR.— The market was well
Stocked with horses and cattle. A great many people, farmers,
cattle-dealers, and others were on the ground, but few trans-
actions took place, especially with regard to horses. Such a
Stiff, dull market has seldom been seen. The fat cattle sold
brought about 10s. per stone ; lean cattle sold at from £10 to
£15. There were very few sheep; some ewes were sold at
prices varying from 20s. to 65s. each.

DURHAM FAIR.— A pretty good show of beasts. All
fresh animals fit for turnips were very readily sold at high
prices. Half-fat brought ahout 6s. 6d. per stone, and those in
better condition nearly 7s. per stone. Fresh geld cows were
also in great demand. Lean stock did not meet with a ready
sale, but still the prices asked were high. A number of lean
Irish kyloes were shown, for wiiich about £6 per head was
asked. There was a pretty numerous show of cows, but most
of them were of inferior quality: between £15 and £16 per
head were tbe prices asked for good auimals. There was a
large show of lambs, and the prices were not so high as at this
fair last year by 23. 6d. or Ss. per head. One lot of particu-
larly good Cheviots, 115 in number, were sold at lis. 3d. per
head; another lot of about 300 was parcelled out and sold at
lOs. 6d. ; inferior lots were to be had at from 9s. to lOs. per
head. One lot of 60 half-bred brought 13s., and a large lot
brought 13s. 6d. In the horse fair there was a very small
show of good animals ; anything at all useful was sold at high
prices.

AT GLASTONBURY TOR FAIR there was, as usual, a
very large attendance and a good deal of stock. The best beef
was mostly sold at about former prices ; but inferior qualities,
of which the supply was large, hung on hand even at lower
prices than of late. There were not very many fat sheep, but
a good many poor : some prime Downs, two-teeth, sold for
34s. and lambs 22s. — best Down ewes 303. to 31s.: a good
many changed hands, but the price was considered lower than
at late fairs. This is the largest sucking-colt fair in the
county, and they sold quite as high as last year ; but in two-
year-old colts and other horses there was a fall in prices. The
railroad being open, there was a large attendance.

KELSO TUP MARKET.— There were from 1,700 to
1,800 sheep on the sale stance, principally composed of Lei-
cesters, a few lots of Cheviots, and a sprinkling of South-
downs, &o. The whole of this stock was in the hands of
Messrs. Fairbairn, Embleton, Donkiu, and Oliver. The buyers
were very numerous from all parts of the country. Never
was such an exhibition seen at Kelso, both in point of quality
and numbers, 'ihere would have been even a larger number
of buyers here to-day, but unfortunately Moffat, another im-
portant market, happened to fall on this day also ; Imt with

all, from the anxiety in bidding, and the stock never having
been seen in better condition, they sold well. The Edinburgh
salesmen bought very extensively. There were also several
extensive purchases, ^on the part of various individuals, for
Ireland. There were also a few lots of sheep, which were
sold by private bargain, composed of Leicesters, Cheviots,
half-hreds, and a small lot of Southdown shearling rams,
which, we understand, supported the prices of last year.
Bred sheep ran from 21. to 251. The following are a very
few of the lota that were disposed of ; Mr. Donkin sold Mr.
Crisp's (of Hawkhill) lot, numbering 50, for 223Z. 93., the
highest \0l., and the lowest 3 guineas (these were Lei-
cesters). Mr. Dickinson, Magdalen-hall, got for 60 of his Lei-
cester rams the sum of 298Z. 13s, 6d. — the highest being 15Z.
lOs., and the lowest 31. 3s. Mr. Graham's (of Kelverton,
Darlington) lot of 14 brought 39Z. 193. 6d. Mr. Thomson's
(of Haymount) stock, amounting to 56, averaged Tl. 5s. ; Mr.
Lynn's (of Miudrnm Mill) 35 ran from 61. to 21. 10s. Mr,
Piaketton's lot of 28 sold at 156?. ISs. — a portion of them
averaging 31. ISs. 5d., and the other part 4L 16s. 6d. Mr.
Thomson, Mindrum, got, upon an average, for a lot of 70,
4Z. a-head.

LEWES SHEEP FAIR was one of the largest we have
had for some years, from 35,000 to 40,000 sheep and lambs
being penned. It was naturally expected that the shortness of
feed would operate against the prices ; and it is probable that,
although there was a difference in prices from last year of from
63. to 93., this would have been even much greater had it not
been for the recent rains. At the opening of the fair there
was a very great disparity between the buyers and sellers, and
it was not until after dinner that any great amount of business
was transacted, and this was only then done at a depreciation
of nearly 23. from the prices which might have been obtained
in many cases earlier in the day. Altogether the fair might
be considered heavy, although a very great clearance was made
before the evening. The prices may be quoted as follows : —
For ewes 20s. to 40s., wethers 28s. to 38s., ewe lambs 143. to
22s., wether lambs 14s. to 273. Among the sales effected the
following came under our notice : Ewes — Mr. Hart, Bedding-
ham, 403. ; Messrs. Hampton, 39s., 463., 503. and 55s.; Mr.
Emary, 403. ; Mr. Penfold, Wiggenholt, 38s. 6d. ; Mr. Hugh
Penfold, Hunnington, 383. 6d.; Mr. Hare, Findon, 32s.; Col.
Paine, SOs. ; Mr. John Saxby, 343.; Mr. Tompsett, Hoddern,
293.; the Earl of Chichester, SQs, ; Mr. Tompsett, Deans, 27s.
6d.; Mr. Denman (culls), 33s.; Mr. John Kent, 343.; Mr.
Saxby, Westdean, 34s. to 27s. ; Mr. Breton, Westham, 28s. ;
Mr. Barber, Falmer, 283.; Mr. Filder, 27s.; Mr. Tompsett,
Falmer, 27s. ; Mr. Turner, Clayton, 27s. Wethers— Mr. R.
Ellman, 383. Ewe lambs— Mr. J. Saxby, 24s. ; Mr. Denman
(culls), I83. Wether lambs— Mr. Gorringe, Kingston, 273. ;
Mr. W. Tanner, 243. There was an unusual quantity of rams
in the fair. Among others which we noticed were those be-
longing to Mr. Hart (Beddingham), Messrs. Hampton, Mr. R.
Ellman, Mr. T. Ellman. Mr. J. Saxby, Mr. Hay ward (Folking-
ton), Mr. Harris (Berkshire). The sale was remarkably dull.
Messrs. Hampton, however, sold several ranging from £9 9s.
to £21, and ram lambs from £3 IO3. to £4, and others were
equally fortunate at prices from £6 to £10. There were a few
horses, and some lean stock, but none deserving of special
notice.

LINCOLN FAT STOCK MARKET.— There was a very
short supply of both beasts and sheep ; consequently, with a
scarcity of buyers, the business was very dull. Beef realized
73. to 7s. 6d. per stone, and mutton 6|d. to 7d. per lb.

At MIDDLESMOOR FAIR for the sale of half-breds, or
what are usually called Masham lambs, bullocks, and other kinds
of stock, the show far exceeded those of previous years,
nearly 4,000 lambs, and some sheep being shown. The lamb
buyers being scarce caused only about 500 to exchange hands
at remunerating prices, but about 33. per head lower than last
year. The show of steers was great, and being of first-rate
quality, nearly all v/ere sold at good prices, ranging from 81.
to 9/. each. The attention of dealers, graziers, and others
ought to be called to this fair, as the locality is famed for the
breeding of those kinds of stock ; and the farmers in the
neighbourhood are very anxious to promote it by all means
n their power.

MOFFAT TUP FAIR.— There was a large show of tups,
the numbers exceeding those of last year, especially in Lei-
cesters, which were more thau double in ntmiber. Therp were

S64

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

of Cheviot rams of all ages 920, Leicestei- 198, bluck-faced 34
— iu all 1,152 head. In consequence of these large numbers,
intending buyers were offering lower prices, and for some time
sales proceeded slowly ; a sale of stock in the forenoon, by
auction, in a meadow adjoining, also drew off a large number
of those present, and was found to be rather inconvenient.
After this sale was concluded, sales for good stock proceeded
more briskly, though for secondary descriptions the demand
was not active at any time during the day, and a considerable
number of this class were left unsold. For a fine three-year-
old Cheviot ram, from Twiglees, £25 was offered and refused;
a two-year-old, from the same farm, made £10 lOs.; and a
number of others from £9 down to £3 10s. Mr. Moffatt,
Garrel, sold two three-year-olds for £35 the pair. Mr. M'Call,
Burrance, sold two-year-olds at £18 the pair; a lot of four
made £7 7s. each. Good rams rated from £4 to £10, se-
condary from £2 to £3 10s. The show of Leicesters was
large, for which there was a good demand, but from the large
supply, all did not find purchasers. The best were bringing
from £4 to £4 10s,, though in some instances the latter figure
may have been exceeded; ordinary were selling from £2 10s.
to £3 lOs. A lot of eighteen Cheviot tup lambs were disposed
of at 303. each, prices generally from that sum down to 15s.
The show of black-faced tups was limited, but those shown
were good specimens of this hardy breed. Prices may be
quoted from £2 to £3. In the afternoon a good deal of
business was done iu the sale of draft ewes, to be delivered in
October. The highest price reported was for Moodlaw, which
brought about 24s. each. Mr. Kennedy, Greskine, bought one
lot at 21s. 6d., and the draft ewes from two farms both at 21s.
Mr. Edgar bought a lot at 19s., and another at 17s. 6d. Va-
rious sales were made from the latter figure up to 21s. A good
number of sales were effected before the fair, the prices given
being from 2s. 6d. to 4s. below those obtained by the same
parties last year. A few lots of lambs and two or three scores
of small Highland cattle were offered for sale, but among the
latter little business was done. A lot of Cheviot ewe lambs
were sold for 7s. ; a lot of seventy-two small lambs were of-
fered for 5s. 6d., but had not found a purchaser up to the af-
ternoon. There was several lots of good Galloway cattle.
Mr. Johnstone, Archbank, sold a prime lot of sixteen three-
year-olds at £12 5s., and six two-year-old queys at £10 10s.
Mr. Johnstone, Alstoiie, refused £18 for a lot of nioe three-
year-olds, very fine animals, fit for the butcher.

MORETON-IN-THE-MARSH FAIR.— The supply of
cattle was good, and the number of sheep penned about 1,300.
Mutton and beef averaged from 6d. to 7d. per lb. Trade was
good, the attendance of farmers and dealers being numerous.

OSWESTRY FAIR was supplied with a full amount of
stock, which met with a ready sale, fatted animals being in
much request. Store pigs were in much demand. Beef and
mutton maintained much the same prices as last fair. Iu the
butter and cheese mart there was a very good supply, which
was bought up very rapidly, butter making lOid. to lid.;
cheese (skims) 25s. to 35s.; middle, 403. to 55s. f best dairies,
COs. to 65s. per cwt.

SHREWSBURY FAIR.— There was a large show of stock
of all kinds, and plenty of buyers at good prices. Beef ruled
from 6d. to d^d., and a few prime lots made fully 6|d. ; fat
calves, 6d. to e^d. ; wether mutton, 6d. to 6|d. ; lambs, 6|d.
Store cattle and good cows and calves sold well. Fat pigs
from 5^d. to 6d. ; stores unaltered,

TADCASTER FORTNIGHT MARKET.— We had an
average supply of stock. Beef, 6s. 9d. to 7s. 6d. per stone ;
mutton, 6d. to 7d. ; lamb, 7d. per lb.

WREXHAM FAIR was well attended. The show of cat-
tle in the morning was good, and many changed hands at good
prices. A large number of fat and other pigs were exposed for
sale; the former realized from 5^i. to 5|d. per lb.; good
strong stores from 303. to 40s.; small, from lOs. to 123.
Sheep, of which there was a large number, nearly all sold off
at good prices. The horse fair was well attended, and the
show better than usual ; good useful cart horses were in great
demand, and fetched high prices. A large quantity of honey
was exposed ; the price ranged from 2s. 6d. to 3s. 6d. per
quart, and in some instances 4s. was obtained.

YORK FORTNIGHT MARKET.— We had a fair supply
of fat beasts, which met with tolerable demand at from 63.
6d, to 7s.; very prime heifer beef, 7s. 3d. per stone. A mode-
rate number of leaa beasts, of middling quality, had slow de-

mand at douu-vatd rates. Soajc Scotch and Welsh were m
demand ; but Irish were refused, owing to the high prices
asked. A fair show of calving cows sold at high rates. A
moderate quantity of mutton sheep had very heavy demand,
at from 5d. to 6Jd. per lb.; grazing sheep were in fair supply,
with slow sale, at downward prices. Tupping ewes were in
good supply, but they had dull sale at lowering rates. Lambs
were plentiful, but little business done, and figures tending
downwards.

IRISH FAIRS.— Banagheu : The entire number of theep
was nearly 14,000, out of which there were sold about 5,000,
leaving upwards of 8,500 unsold. These numbers correspond
closely with last year. For some few years the Marquis of
Clanricarde has obtained the top price of the fair. His herd
last year, having sold the largest lot of ewes, got a prize of
£2 ; and his lordship has not only had the same good fortune
this, but exceeded by 3s. the price of last or any former year.
The noble marquis was in the fair, and appeared in excellent
health and spirits. The following is the list of the prices for
several lots sold: — Marquis of Clanricarde, top lot, SOs. 6d-
wethers ; 463. and 42s. for others, and 38s. for ewes. Captain
Bernard 45s. 6d. and 43s. for wethers, and 38s. for ewes. James
F. Armstrong, Esq., 38s. for wethers; Wm. B. Armstrong,
Esq., 42s. for do.; Thomas Hackett, Esq., 423. for do.;
Thomas Seymour, Esq., 453. for do., and 43s. 6d. for a prime
lot of well-bred ewes ; Joseph H. Cowan, Esq. sold 450 ewes
at 30s.; Henry Flanigan, Esq., refused 473. for a top lot of
wethers; Mr. John Kenny sold 250 ewes at 35s. 6d., and 150
at 33s., aud 100 hoggets at 30s.; Mr. Henry Kenny, of Lis-
more Castle, 200 ewes, 35s. 6d. There was a large show of
tups, and Thomas Manifold, Esq., of Heath Lodge, sold four
at £10 each. This day was devoted for the exhibition and
sale of horses. There was a very short supply of anything
like first-class animals, and few buyers for any description ex-
cept for military purposes, the number of which fell short of
the demand. Few at high figures appeared for sale, and many
more disposed of at prices varying from £40 to £90 ; colts and
fillies of height and shape were in good demand for the army.
The principal purchasers were Messrs. Dawson, M'Grane,
and Farrell, of Dublin; Mr. Hartigan, of Limerick; and
Mr. Glass, for Mr. Potter, of Leicestershire. Mr. Hackett,
of Moorpark, Parsonstown, sold a four-year-old colt for
£70 guineas, and another for 55 guineas. Hunters were
much sought for; but there were but few buyers
who would not give the high prices asked. Mr. George
Smith, of Gurteau, refused £120 for a four-year-old by
Warlike. For horses suited for farm purposes there were
not many inquiries, and but few changed owners. The supply
of top cattle was much under last year, and every well-fed
beast was cleare 1 off at an early hour, aud at prices more
than was ever supposed or expected. The following is a list
of the prices obtained for some lots up to three o'clock this
afternoon : — Captain Bernard, top lot three-year old bullocks,
£15; ditto, for heifers, £14 5s. ; George Atkinson, Esq., top
lot of heifers, £15 15s.; ditto, second lot, £12 13s. 9d.;
W. B. Armstrong, Esq., top lot of heifers, £12 lOs. ; ditto,
second lot, £10 73. 6d. ; Thomas Hackett, Esq., Moorpark,
Parsonstown, top lot of heifers, £12; Walter M'Donagh,
ditto, £12; Mr. John Fallon, top lot of heifers, £14 10s.;
Mr. John Kenny, ditto, £13 lOs. ; Thomas Manifold, Esq,,
ditto, £13 10s. ; Thomas Seymour, Esq., top lot of two-year
old heifers, £9 5s. ; Mr. John Clarke, two-year old bullocks,
£11 10s. The fair for every description of black cattle was
" a sweeping one," and, as might be expected, has tended to
cheer up the breeders and graziers. Milch cows were not
numerous, and prices ranged from £7 lOs. to £12 12s.
Yearling heifers ran from £4 to £6; ditto, bullocks,
from £5 to £4 lOs. ; calves, from 30s. to 50s. Dun-
DALK was better supplied than usual with stock of all
kinds. The demand was good; but prices, generally
speaking, were high. In the black cattle fair several fine lots
of stores were exhibited, as also some springers of a superior
class, yearlings, and weaning calves, all of which sold at most
remunerative prices to the breeder. Beef was scarce, and may
be quoted at 6d. per lb., sinking offal. The sheep fair was to-
lerably well supplied with hoggets, store lambs, and muttou,
which brought on the average the following prices : — Hoggets,
30s. to 363. each ; lambs, 18s. to 243. ; and mutton, G^d. per
lb. The demand was excellent in this department (particularly
for Iambs), nearly everything exchanging hands. There was a

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

865

small supply of horses, principally of aa iuferior class ; a few
long tails were shown, but little or no demand being for them,
they remained unsold. Store pigs and bonhams were in good
request at late prices. Calverstown (County Kildare)
was tolerably well attended by both buyers and sellers of stock
in general. Horned cattle sold at the following prices : — Good
springers, £11 10 £14 ; stores, £8 to £12; yearling calves,
£4 to £6 ; weanlings, £2 to £3. There were very few fat
beasts, and consequently a small business done at, on the aver-
age, 60s. per cwt. Sheep were rather plenty, but the descrip-
tion was inferior. Store lambs were worth abcut £1 each on
the average, and " mountainy" mutton a fraction under 6d. per
lb. Hoggets and wethers were scarce, and not much inquired
after. The show of horses was extremely limited, but still

numbered a few that displayed breeding. The prices given
ranged so very widely that it is needless to give a quotation ;
suffice it to say, that some fetched as high as £70, while others
went off as low as £20. Caher : The attendance of sellers
and purchasers was not so large as usual, still the demand for
beef and mutton was brisk. Fat cows fetched from £9 to
£13 ; milch cows, £8 to £12 ; two-year olds, £5 to £7 ;
yearlings, £3 to £5 ; sheep, 30s. to 40s.; lambs, 15s. to 22s.
The supply of horses was small and equal to the demand. —
Tipperary Free Press. Rathkeale : There was a good sup-
ply of stock, but business was dull, owing to the high prices
asked for fat cattle. Beef was up to £3 per cwt., but the de-
maud for sheep was limited, and for top lots from 38s, to 393.
each was the average. Pigs, 573. to 583. per cwt.

REVIEW OF THE CORN TRADE

DURING THE MONTH OF SEPTEMBER.

Though the harvest was, m consequence of the
cold and backward spring, and the want of genial
heat in the early part of the summer, commenced
at least a fortnight later than in ordinary seasons,
the extraordinarily fine weather experienced during
August and September has more than compensated
for the drawbacks which preceded, and the crops
have been brought to perfection and secured in a
highly satisfactory manner. With the exception
of small quantities of corn which may still remain
abroad in Scotland and the North of Ireland,
harvest is now concluded, and that which remains
in the fields is not of sufficient importance to make
any material difference in the general result ; we
may, therefore, congratulate our friends and the
public on the termination of as plentiful a harvest
as has been gathered in these islands for some
years past.

A small portion of the wheat carried early in
August was secured too hurriedly ; but with this
exception, nearly the whole has been got together
in excellent condition. The blight so much talked
of iiv July, appears to have done comparatively
little harm ; and the only defect which we have been
able to discover in the quality, is that caused by
the lodgment of some of the heavy pieces before
they had arrived at maturity. Where this was the
case, the berry is somewhat meagre and shrivelled ;
but, as a whole, there is very little fault to be found
with the quality of the new wheat. As regards
quantity, the reports are almost without exception
favourable : in many cases the produce is very
large; and making allowance for the large breadth
cultivated, we have no hesitation in stating that
the yield will be found to exceed that of good
average years by one-fifth. It must, however, be
borne in mind, that in consequence of the extreme
deficiency of the harvest of 1853, there are no
stocks of old wheat of home-growth remaining, and
the excess of new will therefore hardly suffice to

place the country in a much better position as re-
gards stocks than she held at this period last year.
The general estimate is, that farmers ought at
harvest time to have sufficient old wheat on hand
to provide for the consumption of the kingdom for
two or three months ; whereas it is an admitted fact
that not only the farmers, but the millers and
dealers as well, are literally cleared out. An excess
in the produce of a fifth, or even a fourth, does
not, therefore, insure us against the probability of
requiring considerable importations from abroad
during the next twelve months.

This view of the matter has begun to exercise its
influence on prices, and the panic under which the
trade laboured for a few weeks when the first sup-
plies of new began to make their appearance, only
lasted a week or two. Since then, a smart re-
action has taken place ; and since our last monthly
notice, rather an important rally has occurred in
prices of wheat at all the principal markets.

Attention has been so exclusively directed to
wheat, that it has become a matter of considerable
difficulty to obtain accurate information in respect
to the result of the crops of other articles.

Barley has thus far been much less extensively
thrashed than usual, which may be attributed in
some measure to the very high range of tempera-
ture ; this has caused the demand for malting
qualities to set in later than usual, and farmers
have therefore been unwilling to supply the markets
freely. We are inclined to think that the original
impression formed by the appearance of the crop
on the ground before cutting was commenced, viz.,
that the yield would be large, will prove correct.
The quality is not particularly fine, many of the
samples which have come vinder our observation
having proved coarse ; but there will, we have no
doubt, be a fair proportion of good malting quality;
and as regards quantity, there is reason to believe
that the yield to the acre exceeds that of good

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

average years. The opening price for average
runs of malting barley was about 30s. per qr., and
thus far it has remained steady, at that figure.
When supplies increase— which they may be ex-
pected to do next month— prices will probably be
somewhat lower ; but the idea of a very great de-
cline is much less generally entertained than it was
a month ago.

Oats are allowed to be a good crop ; but as to
quantity and quality, they have been harvested so
dry as to be fit for use with a smaller mixture of
old corn than usual. The deliveries from the
growers have not been large, though a fair portion
has been thrashed out ; but farmers having no old
oats left, have required the greater part of what
they have thrashed for their oven use.

Beans, though short in quantity, prove of fine
quality. The demand for this article has scarcely
commenced as yet, still prices have rather tended
upwards in most parts of the kingdom.

Peas have given a very good return, but the
complete exhaustion of old stocks has caused
prices to rule high, more especially for fine boilers,
it being the prevailing impression that these will be
extensively used during the winter as a substitute
for potatoes, which may then probably have become
scarce, owing to the manner in which they have
thus far been forced on the markets.

On the whole, we are disposed to think that the
extent of the potato disease has been somewhat
exaggerated ; the quality is certainly better than of
late years, and we hear fewer complaints of decay
in the pits. The reports from Ireland with regard
to the potato crop are very conflicting, and are of
a nature to defy anything like a definite conclusion
being arrived at : this is, however, certain, that the
accounts have become much less alarming within
the last month, which induces us to hope that the
long interval of dry warm weather had a beneficial
effect in checking the ravages of the disease.

In regard to the future, we are happy to be
enabled to say that we consider the prospect for
the British farmer to be more promising than it has
been for years. We have been blessed with extra-
ordinarily fine weather, and the fruits of the earth
have given an ample return. The harvest just
concluded is (taking one article with the other)
more satisfactory than any gathered for some years
past, and the probabilities are that the range of
prices, without being so high as seriously to in-
convenience the consumer, will be sufficiently high
to remunerate the producer — a state of things
which cannot prove otherwise than advantageous
to the community at large.

That our farmers will have to compete with the
foreign grower, there can be no doubt ; but the
competition will not be of the sam^e ruinous cha-

racter as was the case during the first years of free
trade. The stocks abroad have — the same as has
been the case here — been used up very closely, and
farmers in many of the continental corn-growing
countries having become rich by the exports to
England, will not be very willing sellers at low
prices. Merchants and millers are out of stock in
almost all parts of the world, and the future course
of the trade is more in the hands of the producers
than in ordinary years.

We stated in our last that we expected the
average price of wheat would for some months
probably rule between 50s. and 60s. per qr. : since
then, we have been below and above this range ;
but we still think that when matters become a little
more steady, that will be about the point.

The weather is now, and has for some time been,
highly propitious for preparing the land for
autumn-sowing, of which farmers have taken ad-
vantage, and they have been too busily engaged in
the fields to allow much time for thrashing. When
the sowing of wheat and other out-door occupa-
tions shall have been completed, we shall, in all
probability, have increased deliveries, and though
prices may in the interval go higher, we think they
will afterwards return to the present level, or,
perhaps, somev/hat lower. A fine seed-time is a
great point gained, and we are by no means certain
that we are not in some measure indebted to the
propitious character of the autumn of 1853 (which
enabled a large breadth of land to be sown in a
highly satisfactory manner) for the bountiful har-
vest just secvued. The seed having been well got
in, and the plant fully established, the cold spring
did comparatively little harmi and though the
weather in May and June was far from promising,
the plant never went back materially in appearance.
The present seed-time promises to be equally
favourable with that of last year ; the land works
like a garden, and a considerable breadth has
already been sown.

The importations into the United Kingdom have
lately been small, and the probabilities are that no
large arrivals will take place till next spring. In
Prussia, Poland, Holland, and Belgium, there are
no old stocks worth naming, and farmers do not
usually bring forward large suppUes of new till
after sowing is completed. In France, wheat and
flour are so scarce that purchases are being made
weekly in the English markets on French account,
and in the United States of America prices of
breadstuffs have, in consequence of reduced stocks
and the unfavourable result of the Indian corn
harvest, risen considerably above the rates current in
the British markets.

The importations into theUnited Kingdom during
the month ending 5th inst. v/ere as follow ;— -

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

Wheat. Barley. Oats. Eye. Beans. Peas. Blaize. Flour.

qrs. qrs. qrs. qrs. qrs. qrs. qrs. cwts.

198,057 96,759 125,069 441 84,490 5,079 63847 228,213

against

Wheat. Barley. Oats. Bye. Beans. Peas, Maize. Flour.

qrs. qrs. qrs. qrs. qrs. qrs. qrs. cwts.

281,950 101,679 110,017 — 29,181 6255 106,677 250,108

received in the corresponding month.

Shipments from the Baltic have now nearly
ceased, and there is, we believe, very little corn on
passage, either from ports east of Gibraltar or from
the other side of the Atlantic. The tone of the
trade at Mark Lane having in a great measure
regulated the other markets, a retrospect of what
has taken place there during the month will suffice
to give a tolerably clear idea of the fluctuations
elsewhere. Up to the close of the last and during
the first week in the present month, prices of wheat
continued to recede, and buyers looking for a fur-
ther reduction could not make up their minds to
purchase. Scarcely any old wheat of home-growth
has come forward, and the supplies of new have
for some weeks past fallen of. There was already
a decided decrease in quantity the first Monday in
the month ; but as the millers refused to buy ex-
cept at reduced terms, they succeeded in depressing
the market — the sales made being at prices 6s. per
qr. below those current on that day se'nnight.
This was the lowest day, good red Kent wheat
weighing 63 lbs, per bush, having on that occa-
sion been sold at 49s. to 50s. and fine white at 55s.
to 56s. per qr. On the following Monday there
was so great a falling off in the show on the Essex,
Kent, and Suffolk stands, that buyers experienced
considerable difficulty in securing sufficient to
provide for immediate wants. Besides the local
demand, there were buyers from other quarters and
some demand for shipment to France; factors con-
sequently raised their pretensions, and a clearance
was made at an advance of fully 4s. per qr. on the
terms accepted the week before. Since then the
upward movement has continued, and the millers
are so distressed for wheat as to be almost at the
mercy of sellers : the rise from the 11th to the 18th
inst. amounted to at least 4s., and on Monday last
the improvement named was well supported. Good
runs of Essex and Kent red wheat are now worth
60s., picked samples Is. to 2s. per qr, more : white
65s. to 66s. per qr., the average weight of the
same ranging from 62i to 63ilbs. per bush. In
addition to what has been taken by the millers, we
have lately had rather an active inquiry for seed-
wheat for the continent, and a considerable
portion of last Monday's supply was taken for
shipment, which certainly assisted to support
prices ; and we are inclined to think that ^ if this
had not been the case, some slight reaction might
have taken place, as local purchasers conducte

their operations with greater caution than earlier in
the month. The arrivals of wheat from abroad
have been very small — the total quantity reported
during the three weeks ending 23rd instant having
fallen considerably short of 10,000 qrs. In the
beginnmg of the month some forced sales were
made at very low prices : the best day for buying
was on the 4th inst., when very good qualities of
Lower Baltic red wheat were sold at 6Ss. per qr.,
and other sorts at corresponding rates. The rise
since then has been quite as great as on English ;
and fine Rostock has lately commanded 6Ss., whilst
for choice Danzig 72s. was, we believe, paid on
Monday last. The very dry condition in which the
greater part of the English wheat has come to
market led millers in the first instance to believe
that it would make good flour with a comparatively
small mixture of old ; but it was soon discovered
that this would not answer, and latterly about the
usual proportions have been used ; there has con-
sequently been an improved demand for foreign,
and the granaried stocks have been largely drawn
upon. Besides what has been taken by our local
millers, there has been a good country demand, and
some quantity has also been bought for shipment
to France and Belgium ; indeed, the exports have
for several weeks past exceeded the imports. The
business in floating cargoes has been principally
confined to Egyptian, for which 38s. up to 40s. per
qr., cost, freight, and insurance, has been paid.

The top price of flour, which was 55s. per sack
at the close of last month, was, in consequence of
some misunderstanding among the millers, reduced
to 50s. on the 1 1th inst. though wheat rose 5s. per
qr. on that day. It did not, however, remain long
at that figure, and is now the same as it was when
we last addressed bur readers. This certainly
appears a somewhat anomalous position of affairs
— the raw material being about 10s. per qr. dearer
than it was at that period. Household flour has
not fluctuated so much, never having been below
45s., and being now worth about 50s. per sack.
Norfolk household was at one time sold at 40s,
per sack, but the demand at that price was greater
than the supply: by the 18th the price had risen
to 44s., and now there are few sellers willing to
take below 45s. per sack for good marks.

The scarcity of water, in consequence of the long-
continued drought, has brought many of the water-
mills to a stand, and the receipts of flour coastwise
and by rail have been less liberal than they would
otherwise (in all probabihty) have been. Consi-
derable purchases of American and Spanish flour
have been made for shipment to the continent,
where the want of water has caused a great scarcity
of the article. Good barrels have risen 3s. to 4s,,
and for Spanish flour as much as 50s, per sack has

368

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

been paid for export. The arrivals from America
have been quite trifling, and the stocks in ware-
house, which at one time were very heavy, are now
insignificant, and of what remains only a small
proportion is perfectly fresh and sound.

During the early part of the month the average
range of temperature was much higher than is
usually the case in September, which prevented the
maltsters commencing work, and though the sup-
plies of new barley were small, no improvement
took place in prices : the nominal value of good
runs of malting barley remained stationary at about
30s. per qr. Within the last eight days the weather has
become much colder, and the demand has therefore
improved, the effect of which has been a rise of Is.
to 2s. per qr. in the price of the finer desci'iptions
of barley — the best runs bringing 31s, to 32s. per
qr. on Monday last. The advance which has taken
place in the value of most articles used for feeding
has had some influence on that of grinding barley.
Danish and similar sorts are at present worth Is.
per qr. more than they were in the commencement
of the month, and Egyptian, which was then
offering at very low rates, has risen Is. to 2s. per qr.

Quotations of malt have undergone little or no
change, but the inquiry for the article has within
the last week or two improved, and prices were
paid on Monday which it would have been very
difficult to obtain earlier in the month.

The deliveries of new oats from the farmers have,
as we have already remarked in the foregoing part
of the present article, scarcely sufficed for the
local wants of buyers in the agricultural districts ;
and the supplies of this grain into London have
been exceedingly small. Thus far, the receipts
from Ireland have also been trifling; and the
arrivals from abroad have, since the bulk of the
Archangel oats came to hand in the commence-
ment of the month, been very moderate. About
80,000 qrs. arrived from Archangel in the course
of about three weeks : this was a larger quantity
than had been calculated on; indeed the general
impression earlier in the season was, that the White
Sea would have been effectually blockaded, and
that no shipments would be made from any part of
Russia. Under this belief, merchants, seeing the
probability of the stocks in this country running
very short, paid high prices for oats wherever they
were to be obtained ; and we fear that the losses
on some of these purchases will be heavy. The
downward movement in prices which had com-
menced previous to our last monthly notice con-
tinued up to the 4th inst., when good Archangel
oats were sold at 21s. per qr. From this point
rather a sharp reaction has taken place, and similar
qualities are now worth 24s. 6d. to 25s. per qr.
Other sorts, which were not so much depressed as

Russian, have advanced from the lowest point about
2s. 6d. per qr,, heavy Danish and Swedish feed
being now worth 27s., Dutch brews about the same
price, and other descriptions in proportion.

The market has been very nearly cleared of old
corn; and so long as the supplies of new of home
growth do not increase, present rates must, we
think, be supported.

The value of beans has been influenced by the
rise in oats, and quotations are 2s. to 3s. per qr.
higher than they were at the close of last month.
The new beans which have come to hand have
proved of very good quality, and have arrived in
excellent condition ; ticks have brought 40s. to
44s., and harrow 42s. to 46s. per qr. Egyptian
beans, which were at one time forced off" at 30s. to
31s., are now bringing 33s. to 34s. — indeed some
holders refuse to take below 35s. per qr. ex
granary. For floating cargoes to arrive 31s. to 32s.
per qr., cost, freight, and insurance, is asked.

Though the crop of peas is admitted to have
given a very good yield, the supplies have thus far
been trifling. Prices have not varied materially
since our last ; during the first two or three weeks
hardly any change took place : since then the ten-
dency has been rather upwards.

In Indian corn on the spot very little change has
taken place, but a large business has been done in
floating cargoes : for Galatz 40s., and for Egyptian
31s. per qr., cost, freight, and insurance, has lately
been paid.

According to the most recent advices from the
northern countries of Europe, it would appear that
the harvest there had not given so satisfactory a re-
sult as had been anticipated; but we are inclined to
look upon these reports with some doubt. That
partial injury may have been done in some localities
by storms and floods is probable enough ; but as a
whole we are inclined to think that the produce will
hereafter be found quite equal to that of average
years, in most of the countries bordered by the
Baltic. The recent rise here, the fact that old corn
has been everywhere reduced into a narrow com-
pass, and the moderate character of the supplies of
new, owing to farmers having been busily engaged
in the fields, have combined to cause holders at all
the principal continental markets to raise their pre-
tensions, and at present it would not pay to import
either from the Baltic, from Holland, Belgium, or
France. From the two countries last named, there
is not much prospect of receiving supplies at any
period during the next twelve months ; but from
Germany we shall, no doubt, after a time, obtain a
fair quantity of wheat, barley, and oats. The future
course of business with the Black Sea will depend
on the turn the war may take, but according to
present appearances there is not much chance of

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

369

peace being restored ; hence we must not reckon
on any arrivals of consequence from that quarter.

In the Itahan States the wheat and Indian corn
crops have hardly given so good a return as was, when
harvest was commenced, believed would have proved
the case, and the prohibition of exports from thence
remained in force at the date of our latest advices.

From the United States the reports are of much the
same character this as last month. The wheat crops
appear to have been well harvested ; and though in
some parts injury had been done by the fly, the total
yield would, it was estimated, be fully equal to that of
good average seasons. In regard to Indian corn the
accounts are not nearly so favourable ; a long period
of hot dry weather had, it was feared, done irrepar-
able injuryto this crop, and this would, it was feared,
tell severely later in the year. Stocks of all kinds
of breadstuflfs were lighter at harvest time in Ame-
rica than they have been for years, and, at several of
the large consuming towns, fears were at one time
entertained that the supplies might not prove suffi-
cient for the consumption. Anxiety on this head
had, however, subsequently subsided, and by the
most recent advices (r2th inst.), from New York
we learn that prices after having been very high
had begun to recede. Quotations were, however,
still considerably above those current in our
markets, and there was consequently little or no-
thing being shipped to Great Britain.

It will be observed that the general tenor of the
foreign advices is calculated to confirm what we
have already stated, namely, that for some time to
come the English farmers are likely to have com-
mand of the markets ; indeed, we are inclined to
think that they will not have any foreign supplies
of importance to compete with, until the spring of
next year.

CURRENCY PER IMPERIAL MEASURE.

Shillings per Quartet

old 60 to 62 extra 65 70

Wheat, Essex and Kent, white

Ditto new 57 61

Ditto red, old 56 61

Ditto new 52 58

Norfolk, Lincoln. (feYorksh., red.. 52 54

Barley, malting, new. . 30 31 .... Chevalier.,
DistUling . . — — Grinding. ,

Malt, Essex, Norfolk, and Suffolk, new 64 65
Ditto ditto old 62 63

Kingston,Ware, and town made,new6 8 69
Ditto ditto old 66 68

Rye — —

Oats, English feed . . 23 27 Potato. .

Scotch feed, new 28 29, old 30 31 .. Potato 31

Irish feed, white 25 26 fine

Ditto, black 18 24

Beans, Mazagan 41 43 „

Ticks 43 45 ,,

Harrow 45 47 „

Pigeon 45 51 ,;

Peas, white boilers 42 47. . Maple 38 40 Grey

Flour, town made, per sack of 280 lbs. — — ,;
Households, Town 488. 49s. Country — ,
Norfolk and Suffolk, ex-ship . , . . — — ,

„ 63 65
„ 62 63
„ 59 60
58
32 33

extra

38
26

fine

, 50

, 44

, 43

FOREIGN GRAIN.

Shillings per Quarter

WHEAT,Dantzic, mixed. . 64 to 66 high mixed — 68extra72

Konigsberg 60 66 „ — 66 „ 68

Rostock, new 64 65 fine 66 „ 68

American, white 62 66 red 61 64

Pomera.,Meckbg.,andTJckermk.,red 60 64 extra.. 66

SUesian , 56 62white64 66

Danish and Holsteiu „ 54 62 „ none

Rhine and Belgium „ — — old — —

Odessa, St. Petersburg and Riga. . 46 50 fine — 56

Barley, grinding 21 27 Distilling.. 27 28

Oats, Dutch, brew, and Polands 26s., 283. .. Peed .. 22 24
Danish & Swedish feed 26s. to 273. Stralsund 27 28

Russian 23 28 French. . none

Beans, Friesland and Holstein 38 42

Konigsberg . . 40 44 Egyptian . . 32 33

Peas, feeding 40 42 fine boilers 43 44

Indian Corn, white 35 38 yeUow 35 38

Flour, French, per sack (none) — — none — —
American, sour per barrel 28 30 sweet 31 35

IMPERIAL AVERAGES.

R the

last S

IX Weeks.

Wheat.

Barley, i Oats.

Rye.

Beans

Peas.

Week Ending:

s. d.

3. d.

s. d.

3. d.

Aug. 12,1854..

62 3

34 8

28 11

40 11

45 0

43 6

Aug. 19,1854..

64 0

34 6

27 9

43 1

49 10

44 8

Aug. 26, 1854. .

63 7

32 5

28 7

40 5

47 4

39 8

Sept. 2, 1854. .

62 3

32 5

27 8

38 4

48 2

37 7

Sept. 9, 1854. .

59 4

30 9

27 6

36 9

46 0

36 0

Sept. 16, 1854. .

52 5

29 2

25 11

36 11

45 10

36 10

Aggregate average

of last six weeks

60 8

32 4

27 9

39 5

47 0

39 9

Comparative avge.

same time lastyear

52 5

30 11

21 8

34 1

41 3

37 1

Duties ' 1 0

1 0

COMPARATIVE PRICES AND QUANTITIES
OF CORN.

Averages from last Friday's

Wheat. . .
Barley. . .
Oats . . .

Rye

Beans . . .

Gazette.

Qrs.

70,127

3,928

7,438

637

643

676

nday's i
Av. 1

Averages from the correspond

ing Gazette in 1853

Av.

Qrs.

8. d.

"WTieat. . . . 93,539 . .

56 7

Barley.... 3,706 ..

34 9

Oats:.... 11,086 ..

20 6

Rye 512 ..

35 7

Beans .... 1,448 . .

41 9

Peas .... 490 . .

39 8

DIAGRAM SHOWING THE FLUCTUATIONS IN THE
AVERAGE PRICE OF WHEAT during the six

WEEKS ENDING SEPT. 16, 1854.

Price. Aug. 12. lAug. 19. Aug. 26. Sept. 2. Sept. 9. Sept. 16.

64s.

Cd.

" r

633.

7d.

••!

62s.

3d.

59s.

4d.

62s.

Cd.

"tnU -1.

PRICES OF SEEDS.

BRITISH SEEDS.

Linseed (per qr.). . sowing — 3. to 64s. ; crushing 563. to 60s.

Linseed Cakes (per ton) £10 Os.to £10 lOs.

Rapeseed (per qr.) new 56s. to 60s.

Ditto Cake (per ton) £6 15s. to £7 58.

Cloverseed (per cwt.) (nominal) .... 00s. to OOa.

Mustard(perbush.) white 83. to 93., .. brown old 10s. to 133.

Coriander (per cwt.) new — 3. to — s., old I83. to 20s.

Canary (per qr.) 42s. to 483.

Carraway (per cwt.) new — 3. to — s., old 44s. to 488.

Turnip, white (per bush.) — s. to — a Swede 00s. to 00s.

Trefoil (per cwt.) new I63. to 208.

Cow Grass (per cwt.) 00s. to 00s,

FOREIGN SEEDS, &c.
Linseed (per qr.). . . . Baltic, 50s. to 6O3. ; Odessa, 60s. to 658^

liinseed Cake (per ton) £10 Os. to £11 lOs.

Rape Cake (per ton) £4 15s. to £5 58.

Hempseed, small, (per qr.). , — s., Ditto Dutch, 44s,

sto

fHE MRMER'B MAGA2!N^.

HOP MARKET.

BOROUGH, Monday, Sept. 25.
About 1,000 pockets of the new growth have arrived at
market, and, considering the vicissitudes the crop has had
to encounter, the colour and quality are much better than was
anticipated. Prices can scarcely yet be quoted as settled, but
sales have been made at the annexed rates, viz., choice East
and Mid-Kents and Farnhams, from 20Z. to 26L 5s. ; Weald
of Kents, from 181. to 21Z. ; Sussex pockets, from 181. to 201.
The crop comes down in most instances much short of expec-
tation, and the duty is now generally estimated at 50,000L
Yearlings and Hops of older dates continue in good demand
at firm rates. Hart & Wilson.

POTATO MARKETS,
BOROUGH AND SPITALFIELDS.
Monday, Sept. 25.
Since Monday last large quantities of home-grown
potatoes have come to hand. The imports have been
trifling, viz., 1 ton from Charente and 24 sacks from
Dublin. A full average business is doing, on the fol-
lowing terms : — Regents, 80s. to 90s. j middUngs, 45s.
to 50s. J Shaws, 60s. to 703. per ton.

ENGLISH BUTTER MARKET.

September 25.
We are looking dearer for most kinds of English butter, as
supply is beginning to fall off.

Dorset, fine iveekly 106s. to 1 10*. ^er cwt.

Do., middling 94s. to 98s. „

Devon 98s. <o 100s. „

Fresh, per dozen lbs.,, . , . . lis. to 13s. per dozen.

BELFAST, (Friday la8t.)~Butter: Shipping price, 903.
to 953. per cwt.; firkins and crocks, 9|d. to lOd. per lb.
Bacon, 54s. to 60s.j Hams, prime 683. to 74s., second quality,
6O3. to 64s. per cwt.; mess Pork, 903. to 953. per brl.;
beef, 105s. to 112s. 6d.; Irish Lard, in bladders, 663. to 703. ;
kegs or firkins, 623. to 643. per cwt.

Butter.

Bacon.

Dried Hams,

Mess Fork.

Sept.

per cwt.

per brl.

22.

s. d. s. d.

s. d. s. I

s. d. s. d.

1850..

64 0 70 0

37 0 42

65 0 70 0

60 0 62 6

18.51..

65 0 73 0

45 0 47

62 0 66 0

64 0 66 0

1853..

72 0 78 0

50 0 56

66 0 70 0

85 0 90 0

1853..

94 0 99 0

58 0 60

74 0 78 0

85 0 87 0

1854..

90 0 95 0

54 0 60

68 0 74 0

90 0 95 6

PRICES OF ]

3UTTER,

CHEESE, HAMS, &c.

Butter, per eivt.

s. s.

Cheese, per cwt. s. s.

Friesland , . . . -

. 104i!ol06

Cheshire, new.,.. 6S«o 80

Kt
Dc

. 94 93
. 106 108

Chedder 68 80

rset

BouI?le Gloucester 60 70

Carlom

. 98 100

Single do. ..60 70

Waterford . , .

. 93 100

Rams, York, nerv.,^^ 76 84

Cork, neiu

. 84 94

Westmoreland. .. Ti 82

. — —

Irish ............ 66 76

Sligo

aeon 72 74

Fresh, per doz. ISs.C

d. 14s. Od.

Waterford — —

CREW CHEESE FAIR.— Not less than 120 tons of
cheese was brought into the new cheese-hall at an early hour
iu the morning. The greater portion was of good quality, but
met with rather a dull market. Some dairies of a superior
quality sold at 70s. per cwt., which we believe was the highest
price realized. Two or three dairies, of very superior quality,
were taken home again, as the prices offered did not meet the
wishes of the owner.

GLASGOW, (Wednesday last.) — There was a smaller
supply of cheese. All sold at a slight advance on former
prices. Best old, 60s, to 62s. per cwt. ; new cheese, 433. to
47s. per cwt, ; skim milk cheese, 248. per cwt.

WOOL MARKETS.
ENGLISH WOOL MARKET.
London, Monday, Sept. 25,
, There has been a fair enquiry for most kinds of
English Wools since Monday last; but the increased
quantities on offer have had the effect of checking any
further upward movement in price. Geuer lly speaking,

howeiref , the market is firm, and we have buyers On the

following terms : —

s. d. s. d.

Doivn tegs 1 1 to 1 2

Ealf-breds 10 _ 1 1^

Ewes, clothing Oil — 10^

Kent fleeces 1 1 — 1 H

Combing sldns 1 0 — 1 2

Flannel wool 0 11 — 1 IJ

Blanlcet vjool 0 8 — 1 1

Leicester fleeces Oil — 1 0|

LIVERPOOL WOOL MARKET, Sept. 23,
Scotch Wool. — There is more doing in Laid Highland
wool. Both staplers and manufacturers continue to supply
themselves with more confidence. White Highland is more
inquired for, with light stock. The stocks of crossed and
Cheviots are very much reduced, and the farmers sending the
clip slowly to market, prices are well supported.

s. d, i. d.

Laid Highland Wool, per-2Ubs 0 GtolO 0

White Highland do.,..,.....,.... \2 0 12 6

Laid Crossed do.tunmashed ,,.,, 13 0 13 0
Bo, do., washed ...... 12 9 14 0

LaidCheviot do..un>vashed..„. 13 0 14 6

Bo. do. .washed .»c,.. 16 6 17 8

White Cheviot do .> . ..d9.><.«o. 24 0 26 G

Foreign Wool. — There is a fair inquiry for all kinds of
consumablewool, of which the supply is found to be small, and
a fair business by private contract at fully late rates. Public
sales are to take place here on the 4th, 5th, and 6th of Oc-
tober, when about 5,000 East India, 600 Buenos Ayres, about
1,000 Oporto, Egyptian, Turkey, and other low wools, will be
offered.

FOREIGN WOOL MARKETS.

BRESLAU WOOL REPORT, Sept.20.— A lively demand
is prevailing for almost all descriptions of combing and clothing
wools,homeandSaxon combersand manufacturers being the chief
purchasers. Prices in general are rather higher, particularly of
low and middling qualities, which continue in great request.
Lamb's wool is equally much inquired for, and realizing almost
fully last year's quotations; transactions, however, are of no
great amount, owing to the scarcity of the article. Fine and
superfine fleeces, on the contrary, are much neglected, not-
withstanding an excellent choice, and comparatively moderate
prices. The total quantity which has been taken out of the
market during the last four weeks amounts to nearly 4,000
cwt. ; and there would have been sold still more if supplies
from Russia had not arrived so uncommonly late aud sparingly.
— Gdnseurg, Wool-broker.

YORK WOOL MARKET, Sept. 21.— At this our fifteenth
market we had about 80 sheets of wool, chiefly Moor kinds.
Business was very dull, not more than 20 sheets being sold,
at rates tending downwards. — Yorkshire Gazette.

MANURES.

London, Monday, September 25.

PRICES CURRENT OF GUANO.

Peruvian &uano per ton£i\ 11 Oto£M 0 0

„ B. Jir St class {damaged).. „ 10 10 0 U 0 0

Bolivian Guano {none) ,, 0 0 0 0 0 0

ARTIFICIAL MANURES, OIL CAKES, ^-o.

Nitrate Soda „ 17 10 0 18 0 0

Nitrate Potash or Saltpetre ,, 25 0 0 28 0 0

Sulphate Ammonia „ 17 10 0 18 10 0

Muriate ditto ,, 22 0 0 23 0 0

Superphosphate of Lime ,, 600 COO

Soda Ash or Alkali , 0 0 0 8 0 0

Gypsum „ 2 0 0 2 10 0

Coprolitc „ 3 15 0 4 6 0

Sulphate of Copper, or Roman

Vitriol for Wheat steeping..., „ 38 0 0 0 0 0

Salt „ ISO 200

Bones ^inch per qr. 0 17 0 0 18 0

„ Bust „ 0 18 0 0 18 6

Oil Vitriol, concentrated per lb. 0 0 1 0 0 0

„ Brown , 0 0 0| 0 0 0

Rape Cakes per ton 6 5 0 6 10 0

Linseed Cakes —

Thin American in brls. or ba,gt „ 10 17 6 11 10 0

Thick ditto round „ 10 2 6 10 6 0

Marseilles „ 10 0 0 10 5 0

English , „ 10 15 0 11 0 0

Printed by Rogerson and Tuxford, 246, Strand, L-ndon,

THE FAKMER'S MAGAZIl^E.

NOVEMBER, 1854.

PLATE I.

WELLINGTON,

THE PROPERTY OF MR. JAMES STOCKDALE, BUTTON, NEAR DRIFFIELD, YORKSHIRE,

Is rising six years old, stands 16 hands 3 inches high; is a beautiful dark-brown, short legs, great sub-
stance, and splendid action ; is perfectly sound, a good worker, and a sure foal-getter.

Wellington was got by Young Lincoln ; Young Lincoln by Mr. D. Howson's noted horse, "Lincoln;"
Lincoln by Oxford ; Oxford by Farmer's Glory. He was bred by Mr. T. Booth, of Darfield, out of his
noted cart mare, which bred four very valuable stallions ; dam by Mr. Lambert's black cart horse ; and,
when two years old, obtained the First Prize at Wentworth, in 1850, and the First Prize at Barnsler,
the same year, and a Silver Medal at the same place, being judged the best cart horse. He also obtained
a Prize of £lO at the Great Agricultural Show at York in ] 853, and the First Prize at Wetherby, in the
same year. In 1854 he received the following : — The First Prize of £5 at Hedon, the First Prize of £10
at Driffield, the First Prize of £30 at Lincoln, and the First Prize of £3 at Bridlington.

PLATE II.
A HEREFORD BULL, "MAGNET,"

THE PROPERTY OF EDWARD PRICE, ESa., OF THE COURT HOUSE, PEMBRIDGE, HEREFORD.

Pedigree : Calved 22nd of August, 1851, by the Knight (185), dam Spot (139) by Big Ben (248),
g. d. Tidy (109), gr. g. d. bred by Mr. Rea by Old Court (306).

Prizes : At the Royal Agricultural Society's Show at Gloucester, July, 1853, the First Prize in the
Second Class, £25; at Ludlow Cattle Show, September, 1853, the First Prize in the Sweepstakes, £30;
at the Royal Agricultural Society's Show at Lincoln, July, 1854, the First Prize in the First Class, £40;
at Ludlow Cattle Show, September, 1854, the First Prize in the First Class, £5; at Leominster Cattle
Show, October, 1854, the First Prize in the First Class, £5 5s. ; and at Hereford Cattle Show, October,
1854, the First Prize in the Fourth Class, £6— Total, £111 5s.

WHEAT SOWING.

BY CUTHBERT W. JOHNSON, ESa., F.R.S.

The present wheat-sowing season will in many
districts be unusually retarded ; the cause I need
not explain to any but non-agricultural readers. It
is only such who may be reminded of the long-
continued drought of August and September — of
land so dry and hard as to defy all the effi^rts of
the ploughman. Let us, then, take advantage of

this delay, and gather together a few more of the
novel practical hints which have recently appeared
on the subject of wheat sowing. Let us inquire if
anything has resulted from the comparative ex-
aminations of the chemist in his laboratory — the
farmer in his fields, upon the differing composition,
and the still more widely varying produce of dif-

OLD SERIES.] C C [VOL. XLL— No, 5.

THK MilMKE^S MAGAXiNfi.

ferent varieties of wheat. To the practical agricul-
turist it is needless to urge the importance of such
an inquiry, since every season seems to afford fresh
indications of its importance. Let us first travel
over the ground with the chemist, because if he
can readily discover any material difference in the
chemical composition of different varieties of seed-
wheat grown on the same soil, and under other
exactly similar circumstances, why then we have a
scientific ground for the common and increasing
belief that certain varieties of wheat, even of the
same species, may be much more profitably culti-
vated on any given soil than those which are now
used as seed.

Two German chemists — Fehhng and Faist —
have usefully employed themselves on some
laborious experiments on wheat and other cereal
seeds, the results of which have been lately given
by Dr. Anderson {Trans. High. Soc, 1854, p. 338).
They show that not only do the organic matters of
wheat, such as gluten, starch, &c., materially vary
in amount, but the same remark applies to the ash
or earthy and saline matters which they contain ;
and, as might have been expected, this variation is
influenced materially by the season.

The following tabular statement will easily pre-
sent us with these facts : — •

Column I. gives the grain, and year of its growth ; II., the
water in fresh grain ; III., the gluten in grain'dried at 212'' ;
IV., the starch and fatty matter ; V., the' woody fibre ;
VI., the aah. The first tea being grown in Hoheuheim ;
the next seven in Ackenshausen ; the next six in Kirch-
berg; and the last sis in EUwangen.

Winter wheat ..1850
Winterigel do. ..1350

Bath rye 1850

Ditto 1851

Jerusal. barley .. 1850

Ditto 1851

Kamtsch. oats ..1850

Ditto 1851

Spelt wheat 1850

Ditto 1851

Barley 1851

Kernel ditto . . ..1850

Ditto 1851

Rye 1850

Ditto 1851

Oats 1850

Ditto 1851

Ditto 1850

Ditto 1851

Rye 1850

Oats 1850

Ditto 1851

Barley 1850

Oats 1850

Barley 1850

Ditto 1851

Rye 1850

Ditto 1851

II.

III.

IV.

14-78

13-24

81-95

2-84

18-08,

12-59

82-12

3-32

14-04

15-83

78-58

3-29

14-66

13-29

8307

2-59

13-97

15-73

78-60

2-58

13-73

13-76

78-55

4-96

12-75

15-59

70-24

11-39

14-13

14-11

7310

9-90

14-33

12-33

73-26

9-32

15-25

13-08

7292

10-19

15-19

1201

81.08

4-13

12-97

13-71

8292

1-26

14-33

17-46

78-60

1-84

12-62

12-32

83-70

2-08

14-07

13-20

83-59

1-24

12-47

12-37

74-25

10-37

12-96

11-62

75-35

10-37

15-06

14-12

82-90

0-92

14-86

14-16

82-30

1-41

14-70

13-83

81-83

2-33

13-27

11-53

75-21

10-37

13-43

1304

73-64

1037

15-60

13-14

79-81

4-13

13-71

12-02

75-12

10-21

12-59

10-69

76-41

10-00

15-17

12-10

81-04

4-18

13-91

12-88

79-53

4-55

14-66

14-20

81-51

2-47

14-49

10-40

85-25

2-33

VI.

1-97
1-97
2-30
2-05
2-82
2-73
2-78
2-89
4-09
3-81
2'78
2-11
2-10
1-90
1-97
3-01
2-66
2-06
2-13
1-99
2-89
295
2-92
2-63
2-90
2-62
3-04
1-82
2-82

We have next the recent evidence of a practical
farmer, the result of whose inquiries I ever rejoice

to see reported. It is that of Mr. T. E. Pawlefct^
of Beeston, who has long seen the importance of
the inquiry, and has for some considerable period
acted on his conviction by instituting a series of
comparative and carefully-conducted inquiries. In
writing a few days since to the editor of Bell's
Messenger, he observes —

" Having just concluded my annual e:iperiments
on the comparative merits of dift'erent varieties of
wheat, I must again beg your permission to insert
the following statement in the next number of your
paper, as I beheve many of my friends are anxious
to see it. If it should be thought that my produce
in some respects is large, I beg to say that my ex-
perimental pieces of wheat were grown on very
good land, and in the middle of a field, on small
plots of about a rood each ; that no hedges, banks,
nor roads were measured in, neither was the wheat
in consequence injured by birds or vermin, so that
when I give the result of a j^lot of land producing
50 bushels per acre, it must not be supposed that
a whole furlong or field would produce anything
like that quantity, I mention this lest persons ad-
verse to the farmer should think there is a larger
yield of wheat this season than there really is. I
began my experiments last autumn on the 12th of
October, by drilling at eight-inch intervals the fol-
lowing sorts of wheat, on plots of land containing
about 25 perches each, at the rate of about seven
pecks of seed per acre, after a white clover ley
which had been summer-eaten by sheep. I fouivd
the result to be as follows :—

Experiment No. 1,

Quantity
per Acre.

Value
per Qr.

Value
per Acre.

Bush. pk. gal.

£ s. d.

Improved Browick red .

Spalding red

Overman's red

52 1 0

48 2 0

. 49 2 1

32
52

16 19 7

15 15 3

16 2 6

" On the same day, and in the same manner as
the above experiment, and also on land which had
borne a good crop of v/hite clover during the sum-
mer, were drilled, at the rate also of about seven
pecks of seed per acre, the following varieties of
wheat : —

Experiment No. 2.

Quantity Value Value

per Acre. per Q,r, per Acre.

Bush. pk. gal. s. £ s. d.

Albert red 50 1 1 52 16 7 5

Improved Browick red .. 53 0 0 52 17 4 6

Golden-drop red 51 1 1 53 17 0 3

Lammas red 47 1 1 53 15 15 10

Prima Donna red 43 3 1 53 14 0 8

" As I generally sow a considerable portion of
land with white wheat, I made another trial to see
whether any sort of white would beat, in value per
acre, my old and favourite sort — the imperial white.
I therefore drilled on a piece of land contiguous
to experiment No. 2 the following sorts of wheat,
at the rate also of about seven pecks of seed per
acre. The undermentioned statement was the re-
sult—

'HE FAHMEE^S magazine.

dlo

Experiment No. 3.

Quantity Value Value

per Acre. per Q,r. Per Acre.

Bush. pk. gal. s. £ s. d.

Imperial wWte 47 3 0 59 17 12 2

Ditto ditto 45 3 0 59 16 17 5

American \rhite 4-11 0 60 16 10 0

Brown straw white .... 42 2 1 5S 15 9 0

Prima Donna red 43 3 1 53 14 0 8

"These experiments were all made in a field
where the land was very good, of a deep gravelly-
loam, and in a fair state of cultivation, which ac-
counts for the great produce I have this year. The
prices I have given as the value per qr. for the
wheat is what I consider it is now worth to the
miller; the markets, however, are so fluctuating,
that I do not know that I have stated them cor-
rectly. It is of little consequence, provided that
the relative value of each sort is properly given,
which I have endeavoured to do.

" These trials show a great diiFerence in value
per acre, as much as £3 lis. in one experiment,
and £2 6s. per acre in another, where ail the wheat
was of the red kind. I have grown the Browick
red six seasons, and the imperial white ten seasons,
and they still seem to keep the pre-eminence. I
scarcely, however, knov/ which of the two sorts is
the best; therefore I cultivate both."

To the tenant farmer need I urge anything to
show the very material advantage of knowledge
thus acquired ? of the difference which may thus
be made in the appearance of the annual balance
sheet ? If there is a young farmer who believes
that the maximum produce per acre of wheat is
already attained, let me remind him that four
centuries since, the English farmers thought so too ;
but since then how great has been the increase ! If
he will refer to vol. i. p. 18, of the " British Hus-
bandry, he will find that in the year 1387, on the
fine manor farm of Hawstead, in Suffolk, the pro-
duce of 66 acres of wheat was only 69 qrs. 2 bush.,
and from 26 acres of barley only 52 qrs. 2 bush,
were produced. About the same time, on the
manor farm of Dorking, in Surrey, from 30^
acres of barley were produced only 41 qrs. 4 bush.

The steady increase, then, in the produce of wheat
which has taken place for a lengthened period in
England, shov/s clearly v^hat skill and enterprise
can accomplish. Such reflections encourage us to
persevere— tell us, too, that " Onward !" must
still be our motto. We have a curious instance
of the increased produce of a Surrey parish
during the last four centuries, in the parish
upon whose fields I am now looking from
the windows of my study. I allude to the
picturesque and well-cultivated parish of Bedding-
ton. The rectory of this parish, which contains
about 3,800 acres, was valued in the year 1454 :
the certificate of its value is still ])reserved in the
registry of Y^inchester. It is noticeable from con-
taining a specific statement of the then amount and

value of the agricultural produce of tliis fine parish,
whose rectory is now worth more than £1,200 per
annum. The certificate is as follows : —

£ s. d.

6 Qrs, of wheat at 5s 110 0

60 „ barley at 3s 9 0 0

20 „ oats at Is. 8d 1 13 4

Peas and tares 0 6 8

30 Lambs at 6d 0 15 0

160 Fleeces of wool at 2Ad 1 13 4

Tithe of geese and pigs 0 6 0

Tithe of hemp 0 1 5

Tithe of hay 0 1 0

Tithe of cows and calves 0 2 0

Tithe of apples and nuts. 0 2 6

Tithe of the mill 0 16 8

Oflferings 0 13 4

Tithe of the rabbits and doves of Sir

Nicholas Carew 0 13 4

Tithe of Synclos rabbits 0 2 0

Straw and chaff -. 0 1 4

Glebe lands 0 1 0

On the feast of the purification of the

Virgin Mary, and for the purifying of

other women 0 5 0

The tithe was evidently then taken in kind; for in
the same certificate, imder the head ,/' Deductions
and reprises," we find — £ s. d.

For collecting the wool and the lambs, . 0 10
For collecting and carrying the grain .. 1 16 S

For thrashing the said wheat 0 3 2

„ barley 1 0 0

,, oats 0 5 0

„ peas and tares. .006

For bread, wine, frankincense, and wax 0 3 4

For bell ropes 0 1 8

The archdeacon's fees 0 9 8^

Moiety of the tithing 1 0 8

Annual repairs c.. 1 0 0

For the business of the church 0 6 8

The Abbot of Bermondsey's pension ..500

The sum total of the receipts then being

equal to 21 2 3

And the deductions 11 15 44

There remained a clear profit of 9 9 lOj

It would be curious to trace the scanty notices of
English farmers about the period to which this cer-
tificate relates ; and I may on some future occasion
make the attempt — our Harry of Monmouth had
only just then died. It was the period when hops
were petitioned against as " a wicked weed." More
than a century after this, old Fitzherbert gives us
a sorry glimpse of the condition of the Beddington
farmer of those days, when he tells us that the
duties of a farmer's wife was, amongst other occu-
pations, to help her husband to fill the dung-cart.
It was a condition most probably like that of the
present farmers of a large portion of the Russian
empire, who are too ignorant or too idle to use the
manure which accumulates round their houses

c c 2

374

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

( Journ. R. A. Soc, v. iii., p. 129) ; and which, with
themselves and their families, are transferred with
the land, from one owner to another.

Let us then mark carefully these things ; and let
us not forget that like most other sciences, that of
agriculture has ever been, and will continue to be,
progressive. In the proved superiority of our
favoured country over that of other nations, there

is no portion of the triumph more marked than in
that of agriculture ; and so long as its cultivators
exert the skill, the patience, and the enterprise,
which have hitherto marked so honourably their
career, so long will England have little dread of the
rivalry of those foreign farmers, who possess even
soils like that of " the black earth" of Russia, or
other natural advantages far superior to our own.

THE CALORIFIC ACTION OF LIME,

Lime is the oxide of calcium, one of the newly-
discovered terrigenous metals, of which the pro-
perties have not been accurately investigated, as
the substance has hitherto been obtained only in
very small quantities. Ic is, as far as known, a
brilliant white metal, highly inflammable, and more
than twice as heavy as water, solid, and white like
silver ; and when heated in the open air, it burns
brilliantly, and quicklime is produced. Combined
with oxygen, it forms lime, which consists of 20
calcium + 8 oxygen — 28 lime. Lime contains :

Calcium
Oxygen.

...., 71.91

28.09

100.00

On the subject of the primitive formation of
lime as a rock of the earth, various opinions have
been entertained. Some contend for an igneous
production ; and others think that it proceeds from
the putrescence of marine animals, and has been
formed under water, which gives it an oceanic
origin ; while not a few reckon it a pecuhar prepa-
ration of the aluminous and siliceous earths. It is
a substance of all others the most diflfused over the
globe, and in the composition of animals and vege-
tables. It abounds in most places of the world,
forming vast regions of rocks and mountains, and
in a great variety of forms and combinations pro-
duces materials of very great utility to the purposes
of human life. It appears that until the means of
calcareous matter was provided, few or no air-
breathing animals had lived; but as it increases,
life of every kind becomes numerous and prolific.

In geology, limestone appears in the primitive
rocks as a granular crystalline body, which aflfords
the finest statuary marbles. In the transition class,
the quality is somewhat coarser, and aflfords the
black and variegated marbles, and the rougher
kinds used in architecture. In the fletz formation,
it lies upon the sandstone, is more compact and
translucent than the former, and constitutes the
mountain limestone and the varieties commonly
used, also the liasitic and oohtic limes, chalks, and

marls, and the tertiary formations above the chalk,
with the sihceous and fresh-water formations.

Lime is most commonly found in combination
with carbonic acid gas, or fixed air ; and then it
forma the carbonate of lime, which consists of:

Lime 1 atom

Carbonic acid 1

28
22

1 50 100

With sulphuric acid, it constitutes gypsum, or the
sulphate of hme. The combination with some
other acids is little noticed. The compact lime-
stone of common use contains, at an average :

Lime 56

Carbonic acid 44

100

It is infusible by the strongest heat of our fur-
naces or burning-glasses, when the exposure is
unconfined ; but when the substance is closely co-
vered, to prevent the escape of the gas, the fusion
has been readily eflfected by the oxy-hydrogen
blow-pipe. It constitutes a violent flux in mixture
with other bodies, and is nearly insoluble in water,
requiring 400 to 700 parts to dissolve it, and is not
altered by exposure. It effervesces strongly with
acids, and is almost wholly soluble in them ; does
not vitrify in the most violent heat, but parts with
the gas, and becomes a hght cinder from incinera-
tion.

The use of lime as a cement has been known
from an early period of time, and the application of
it to agricultural purposes has also a date of very
considerable antiquity. When Hmestone is sub-
jected, in confined heaps, to a strong fire above
redness, the water of crystallization is expelled,
and the carbonic acid gas escapes. A cinder or
shell remains, reduced to one-third of the original
weight, but without any diminution of the bulk or
of the hardness ; and the hghtness of the shell is a
criterion of the quahty, as the earthy mixtures do
not lose weight by calcination. It should be re-
moved immediately after burning, as it increases in

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

375

weight by absorption, 100 parts of lime absorbing
about 28 of moisture. Good limestones contain
60 to 85 per cent, of carbonate of lime — in some
instances as much as QQa; and though whiteness
of c,olour is generally mentioned as denoting qua-
lity, yet it is known that some substances will alter
the colour of lime without debasing the quality,
and that others alter the quahty without changing
the colour. But, in general, good limes are white
and light, and feel soft ; while sandy and mixed
limes are heavy and dull in colour, and feel gritty.
When water is applied to lime in a newly-calcined
state, a hissing noise takes place, a swelling fol-
lows, vapour arises, much heat is evolved so as
to ignite combustibles, and light is also emitted, if
the process be performed in a dark situation. The
sulphurous smell arises from a part of the earth
being elevated with the vapour, and the exhalation
has the power of changing vegetable blues to green.
Part of the water is evaporated, and the other com-
bines with the lime and becomes solid, and the
shells fall down into a powder of granular globules,
and, when more closely inspected, of minute cubical
masses. In this process the lime absorbs about
one-third of its volume of water, and is called
slaked lime, or the hydrate of lime. By being re-
duced to powder, lime increases in bulk about
threefold ; and pure lime requires most water and
time to become pulverized, and mixed limes are
observed to require less. Cold water dissolves more
lime than hot— a property not belonging to other
bodies. Water at 60 deg. and at 212 deg. show a
wide difference of the dissolving capabilities of the
different temperatures. After lying for a deter-
minate time exposed to the atmosphere, lime im-
bibes from the air a portion of the carbonic acid
gas that was expelled by the burning, and becomes
milder in its nature, and similar to pounded Ume-
stone, though it does not resume the structure it
before possessed.

Lime in a powdered condition is applied as a
manure to lands that are reduced in the texture
by the process of fallowing, as a preparation for
green crops, or for autumnal wheats, as it affords
the best opportunity of using both the substances
in contact ; and the period of the year also affords
the most leisure and convenience of procuring the
lime and using it effectually. The most general
and best-informed opinions ascribe to lime the
power of two agencies in the soil, or the chemical
and the mechanical. The first says that lime,
being a homogeneous body, will exercise a chemical
action on all substances in contact, for all bodies
of simple constituents have an aptitude to enter
into combination, and the results will depend on
the strength of the respective actions ; that lime
exerts an influence on fibrous vegetable matter, and

forms with it a compost partly soluble in water,
and by this kind of operation converts inert matter
into a nutritious form ; and that, in passing from
the caustic to a mild state, it prepares soluble out
of insoluble matter ; and that in a mild state it acts
merely as an earthy ingredient ; that it corrodes
animal and vegetable substances, renders some
matters insoluble, acts as an antiseptic, and arrests
equally the vinous and putrid fermentations, ope-
rates injuriously on fresh substances, but is very
efficacious in producing nutriment from decayed
materials. By attracting carbonic acid gas, it sup-
plies that element as food to growing plants, as
quicklime attracts five times its weight of aeriform
matter, and thus forms a regular communication
between the air and the plants. But it may deprive
the plants of the carbonic acid gas, and retard
vegetation, as it attracts to itself that aeriform
body.

The most enhghtened practical men, of the best
experience, suppose lime to act as an alterative in
rendering stiff soils less adhesive, breaking the firm
texture, and changing them into a state more
porous to the roots of plants, and more conducive
to vegetable life ; and also as a stimulant, by exert-
ing an influence on other substances in the soil, by
converting them more readily into food, or by
quickening their action. The use of lime has
hitherto received no assistance from chemical or
physical theory ; and the farmer yet applies it by
custom and fashion, without any definite rule. The
analysis of soils and limestones has not imparted
any certainty of proceeding either in the quantity
or the mode of application, as the extremes of fer-
tility and barrenness have been shown by the
component parts of fertile soils that have been
examined. The action of the mineral remains in
doubt, both in the mode and amount of the effi-
cacy.

An opinion may be hazarded, and is confirmed
by a very strong analogical probability, that the
benefit which hme confers on the land arises from
the caloric, or the cause of heat which emanates
from the lime, and which raises the temperature of
the ground to a degree that is very favourable to
vegetable life. No arguments are required to show,
nor any demonstration to prove, the value of tem-
perature for the support of every kind of organised
life : experience has fully proved the value of paring
and burning to consist in the temperature given to
the soil by the flames of the burning; and the
ashes have done little or no good when laid on
pared ground where no burning had been per-
formed.

The benefit lasts till the temperature sinks by
coohng, and then vanishes ; and the period of du-
ration is long or short, according to the power of

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

the soil in imbibing and retaining the caloric, or
cause of heat. It is well known that the value of
lands has a large dependence on this property of
the alluvial stratum.

Lime is an alkaline earth, or an earth having the
properties of an alkali in turning vegetable blues
to green, and at last yellow ; the taste is acid, pun-
gent, disagreeable, and urinous ; and these proper-
ties impart the alkaline character and a distinguish-
ing feature. The alkaline earths are four — lime,
magnesia, barytes, and strontian — and form a con-
necting link between the earths and the alkalies.
They are dissolved in acids, and not precipitated
by the caustic volatile alkali, but very readily by
the iixed vegetable alkali ; and this property dis-
tinguishes them from other earths. The fixed alkalies
are bodies from fire, and are composed of pure air
and highly inflammable metallic substances ; they
are largely provided v.'ith specific caloric, or the
quantities in each necessary to produce a given
change of temperature. Water being the standard,
or 1, potash contains 0759; soda holds 0"7"2S; and
ammonia contains 1"03. Lime holds 0"GlS9, and
shows that the earth falls little below the pure
alkali in the relative quantity of heat. The oxide,
or the limestone, having undergone the process of
calcination — by which metallic substances are ap-
parently converted into earthy matter — the residue
may be supposed to retain some portion of the
phlogiston of the fuel by which the lime was
changed in the condition, and which being joined
with the elemental infusion of the igneous property
must constitute lime to be a very heated substance,
as is well known to every observation. Specific
caloric is increased with the temperature of bodies,
and by their being combined with oxygen. The
absolute heat in bodies has not been ascertained by
any satisfactory rules. It has been thought to bear
a proportion to the specific heat, or, rather, that the
latter was proportionable to the absolute heat ; but
the supposition has not been admitted, though sup-
ported by some very ingenious reasonings.

Heat is a peculiar substance, and a material
agent highly attenuated, which causes a sensation;
and caloric is used to designate the cause of it. All
bodies are pervious to heat ; and the addition of it
produces an expansion of the bulk, or an enlarge-
ment of the volume. To this general law there are,
perhaps, one or two exceptions. Caloric pro-
duces no sensible effect upon the weight of
bodies ; it is the same whether a substance be hot
or cold. The particles of heat are never found co-
hering together in masses. Caloric not only in-
creases the bulk of bodies, and changes their state,
but its action decomposes many compounds alto-
gether, either into their elem.ents, or it causes these
elements to combine in a different manner. In

general, those compounds which have been formed
by combustion resist the action of heat with consi-
derable obstinacy. Those which have been formed
without combustion are easily decomposed ; and so
are those which contain combustibles. Organized
substances in general, both of animal and vegetable
origin, when highly warmed, are converted into
their ultimate elements ; and, having been formed
v/ithout combustion, are easily decomposed.

Bodies seem to conduct heat in consequence of
their affinity for it, and of the property which the}''
have of combining with an indefinite number of
doses of it ; hence the reason of the slowness of the
process ; hence, also, the reason why the tempera-
ture of the body through which it passes diminishes
equally as we advance from the source of heat to
the other extremity. Bodies vary in their power of
conducting heat. The metals are the best con-
ductors of all known bodies, and gold and silver
are the best among the metals. The following
table shows the conducting powers of several of the
metals and other bodies :—

Gold 1000

Platinum 981

Silver 973

Copper 898-2

Iron 374-3

Zinc 363

Tin 303-9

Lead 179-6

Marble 23-6

Porcelain 12-2

Clay 11-4

The comparative power or capacity of quicklime
in the quantity of carbonic at a given temperature
— the standard being water, or 1 — is .4391 with
water, in the proportion of 16 to 9 5 it is * 3 by
itself, and "28 when saturated with water and
dried.

The general operation of heat upon all matter
tends to convert it successively from the solid to
the liquid, and from the liquid to the gaseous form.
But decomposition does not frequently take place,
unless extraneous matter be present. An increase
of temperature produces decomposition where the
physical effects upon the dissimilar molecules of
matter are equal ; the tendency to separate is in-
creased by the further accession of caloric, and de-
composition ensues. This is, however, in a great
measure, a physical operation ; on the other hand,
heat is a powerful promoter of chymical combina-
tion. The just boundary is not very precisely
marked between physical and chemical action, but
caloric is a most important agent in the operations
of chemistry. Compound bodies are acted upon by
it simultaneously, and the practical effects of caloric
are very considerable. Heat modifies the affinities
between the molecules concerned of any original

THA FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

S77

state, and facilitates the production of new combi-
nations. It promotes solution in part, possibly, by
being in itself a great antagonist to solidity ; and
it seems almost always to be the spontaneous con-
comitant of all violent degrees of chemical action.

The subtilty of the matter of heat is such that
we cannot ascertain its accumulation in any body
by the nicest balance; its fluidity maybe considered
as proved by the ease with v/hich it insinuates
itself amongst the particles of matter ; its affinity
foi" other matter is shown by its being universally
contained in all bodies in proportions differing in
each kind of substance ; its repulsion amongst its
own particles is proved by its tendency to exist in
a state of equilibrium in contiguous bodies.

The repulsive energy of heat is limited to in-
sensible distances, and the expansion of bodies by
caloric proves the mutual repulsion of their par-
ticles. Chemical action can only happen between
the ultimate elements of matter ; and the forces
opposed to expansion and reciprocal action are
cohesion and aggregation. Expansion is least
where cohesion is strongest ; and the facility with
which bodies conduct heat is not exactly in propor-
tion to any of their sensible qualities, but is more
nearly in the direct ratio of their density than any
other quality. But the conducting power is not
always in the ratio of their density, but probably
depends also on their affinity for caloric.

Heat is conducted through bodies by trans-
mission or radiation from particle to particle. Each
particle is supposed to be surrounded by an atmos-
phere of heat, which remains latent or quiescent
till disturbed by the approach of bodies of a dif-
ferent temperature, when motions or undulations
are induced, which end in establishing an equi-
librium of temperature, and transmitting the excess
to the contiguous particles, where the same process
is performed, and the same result attained. Very
dense bodies and spongy bodies are equally un-
favourable to the quick radiation of heat : there
seems to be required for the speedy conducting of
'caloric a certain contiguity of position of the par-
ticles, and a natural affection or affinity between
caloric and each kind of matter.

The conducting power of bodies depends prin-
cipally upon three circumstances — by the me-
chanical relation of their particles to each other, by
an attraction between the heat and the particles of
which the body is composed, and by the radiating
power of the heat. The operation may also be re-
garded to be of a mechanical nature, in there being
something in the arrangement or shape of the
particles which hastens or retards the passage of
the heat along them. The radiation of heat from
the surface may have some influence in certain
cases ; heat passes more rapidly upwards than in

any other direction, and extensive surfaces may
draw from the interior to supply the caloric that is
radiated, and thus increase the general transmission
of heat. But we must not enter on any abstruse
theory to illustrate a practical purpose or point.

Caloric must be held as one chief spring of
chemical affinity; it dilates bodies, separates the
particles, diminishes the attraction for each other,
and proportionately augments the attraction of the
particles of adjacent bodies, and consequently pro-
duces combinations, and faciHtates reciprocal
unions. Chemical affinity is reckoned a case of
electrical attraction, and that bodies combine from
being in opposite electrical states, and decomposi-
tion consequently proceeds from the same electrical
condition. Though usually reckoned the same,
electric attraction may be termed the principle in
action, and chemical affinity the power by which
bodies unite — the one being in this sense a measure
of the other. All chemical forces are subordinate
to the cause of hfe, and to heat and electricity, and
to mechanical friction and motion. The latter
power is able to change their direction, increase or
diminish their tendency, and also completely to
stop and reverse their action; but causes must
exist to produce chemical affinity, or the cycle of
life would stand still ; and from our ignorance of
these causes and the apphcation, it is probable that
in many cases their action is arrested or stopped,
often rendered useless, not produced at all, or at
least but accidentally, arising from proceedings not
being yet based on definite or measured causes.

My own experience in the practice of agriculture
has been extensive and varied, almost beyond the
common lot of the middle age of man; the employ-
ment has been close without any interruption, and
the performances have been sufficiently continued
to establish a fact from a majority of similar results.
Among the other operations of the common and
enlightened qualities, the use of lime was largely
introduced, both where I was the agent in the case,
and where I only acted a subordinate part. The
first case occurred on the estate of the Duke of
Portland, in South Northumberland, where the
soil is composed of the shale of the coal, and forms
a clay land of poor quality. The continuity of the
aluminous beds is frequently broken by outbursts
of the new red sandstone rock, which covers the
coal measures, and over the rocks there is a hght
sandy loam that is nothing better in quahty than
the clays that encircle the up-heavings of the red
sandstone. The clay soil is poor in quahty, and
requires to be summer fallowed for wheat ; and the
returns being scanty, both in grain and straw, there
is ever a great want of dung, to be applied to the
fallow grounds for wheat. This scarcity compelled
the trial if lime would render any assistance in

378

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

manuring the ground. One half-acre in the middle
of a large field was limed at the rate of 200 bushels
an acre, and when the shells were pulverized, the
ground was harrowed, then ploughed, and sown
with wheat in October, along with the rest of the
field. The rotation of crops extended to five years,
but on no one was the least benefit from the lime
to be perceived. It was very narrowly watched,
and any result could not have escaped notice.

In this case, the lime failed by reason of the
want of exuvial matter in the land which would
receive the caloric of the lime, retain it, and give
it to the use of the plants. The conducting power
of clay, as shown above, is very low in ] 1.4 of the
graduated scale ; and, therefore, it would receive
scarcely any portion of the caloric of the lime, and
the very anomalous quality it possesses of con-
tracting by heat, which so very much baffles culti-
vation, would exclude any benefit from the heat
that was administered. The caloric was, therefore,
completely lost from want of the proper materials
for its action. The action of lime is none on clay
lands of an aluminous composition that tends to
that substance in the major degree. The reasons
have now been stated.

On the same farm, a half-acre of land was limed
at the same rate, on the surface, in April, after the
turnips were removed, and just before being
ploughed for barley. The ploughing was lightly
done, after the harrows had scarified the lime into
the ground, and the barley and grass-seeds were
sown in the usual way. The failure was as com-
plete as on the clay land : no benefit ever could be
perceived from the lime in any crop of the course.

In this case the failure arose from the caloric
being radiated too quickly along the particles of
the sandy soil, escaping from the land, and no part
being retained for the use of the plants. Sand is
easily heated, and as easily cooled, and the caloric
found no retention for the benefit of the crop.
Without exuvial matters, the primitive earths afford
no ground of fertility or scope for manures.

Another field, of a deep black loamy earth, on
the same farm, showed a very different result in
the action of the lime from the two instances that
have now been quoted. The land was fallowed for
turnips, and the lime was spread on the surface of
the ground before being drilled, and was harrowed
immediately. The benefit was very large, and the
action did not cease during two rotations of the crops.
The land was a heavy black earth, on a bottom of
indurated soapy clay of a red colour, with sonae
stones and white sand in mixture.

In this case the success arose from the caloric
being absorbed, retained, and husbanded by the
black earth which had been formed from exuvial
matter, or from the upper stratum of clay that had

bjeen changed by its mixture into the heavy earth
of a very useful quality. There can be no mistake
in making this estimation. The action of all ma-
nures is in a direct ratio with the quality of the soil
itself, and lime proves the fact almost beyond any
other substance that is used as a fertilizer.

A large extent of paring and burning was done
under my personal superintendence on the same
farm, on a thin clay soil of the shale of the coal,
and of the most inferior quality. Oats, clover, and
oats were borne by the land after burning, and then
summer fallowed. In August, lime was applied in
the mode and quantity as before detailed ; but, as
in the former case of clay land, not the smallest ad-
vantage could be discovered from the lime, though
two ridges were separately left without it, in order
to show the value of the lime. Though farm-yard
dung was applied at the same time, the failure was
most complete.

In this case the lime failed from want of suitable
materials to use the caloric ; the exuvial matters
were deficient for that purpose, and the clay re-
pelled the heat.

The field of my experience was afterwards shifted
to the estate of the Marquis of Hastings, in Lei-
cestershire, where I found a soil of clayey loam, of
good quality, and in the immediate neighbourhood
of the magnesian lime of Breedon, where the rock
stands in an upright, insulated position, with a flat
top, on which the parish church is situated. I had
heard of magnesian lime, but had not seen it, and was
ignorant of the opinion that it was injurious to ve-
getation. The rock lies on the coal formation, and
forms the basis of the saliferous system ; it had
been scientifically examined, and the noxious qua-
lity was attributed to the causticity being longer re-
tained by it than by other limes, in consequence of
the portion in 20 per cent, which it contains of mag-
nesia, which body, it seems, is more corrosive in
the nature than common lime. This rock was
specifically examined and detailed upon by Mr.
Tennant, Geological Professor of Cambridge, who
found by experiments made during winter, and in
a heated room, that vegetables did not thrive so
well in magnesia as in common lime, and that the
former imbibed fixed air at a much slower rate than
the latter substance. It was hence inferred that the
noxious quality arose from the longer causticity of
the magnesian lime. Compared with common lime,
calcined and uncalcined magnesian lime both failed,
the former most : mixed with sand, the calcined
magnesia seemed to be very hurtful, and the noxi-
ous quality continued for many weeks. It is sin-
gular that the idea had never occurred to Mr. Ten-
nant of the caloric of the lime overheating the sand,
or not being retained by it, and thus shown him
that the fault lay not in the lime, but in the soil with

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

379

which he was experimenting. Experiments made
in flower-pots-, and in a heated room, bear very httie
relation to the open field, where a variety of known
and unknown affections occur. The mixture of
magnesia in 20 per cent, destroys the homogeneity
of limestone, and imparts a greater power of im-
bibing and retaining caloric. All mixed bodies
possess an increased power in relation to heat and
moisture beyond the elementary substances, which
possess more limited powers andless varied affections.
The metal of which magnesia is the oxide contains
more oxygen than the metallic base of lime, which
will cause the slowness of imbibing moisture and
carbonic acid ; but the accession of another ingre-
dient in the magnesia will confer the above-men-
tioned power, which has caused the damage and the
inquiry. I was very kindly warned by the neigh-
bouring farmers of the danger of using that kind of
lime which had been very generally condemned and
debarred from use. But, having observed a soil of
strong earthy loam to be used, and thinking that a
greater causticity in the lime, if it did exist, instead
of being hurtful would be very necessary to impart
warmth to the soil, and raise the temperature of the
ground, and in direct opposition to the opinion of
Mr. Tennant, I proceeded on that conviction, and
against the repeated warnings of local ignorance
that was conscious of the fact, and was most kindly
meant. Causticity denotes a quality belonging to
several substances, by the acrimony of which the
parts of living animals are corroded and destroyed,
arising from the strong tendency to combine with
the principles of organized bodies. Concentrated
acids and pure alkalies are the chief agents of that
kind. The destruction is effected by extreme mi-
nuteness, asperity, and quantity of motion, which
act like those of fire, and change and destroy the
texture of the substances to which they are applied.
The causticity of lime is produced by the banishment
of fixed air, which renders all alkaline substances
to be mild when it is present. Causticity acts only
upon living organisms ; in the soil it will meet
with no bodies to receive any damage ; the earths
are beyond its force, and the exuvial matters will
be heated by its power, and stimulated by its action.
That the longer causticity of magnesian lime is the
cause of the supposed damage inflicted on the land,
was a conclusion most unphilosophic and illogical,
though bruited by Mr. Tennant.

The clayey loams that were under ray manage-
ment v/ere reduced in the usual way for green crops,
and the planting of beet commenced in the month
of May. The hme, in cinders from the kiln, was
brought forward during the two previous months,
and laid in a longitudinal heap upon the headland
of each field to be limed. When the land was
ready, the heap of lime was turned over, and water

applied to the undissolved parts, in a quantity suffi-
cient to effect the pulverization, but not to form a
paste. The next day, the lime, in that hot, caustic
state, was spread over the land at the rate of 200
bushels an acre, and immediately covered by har-
rowing. The lime ran through the chinks of the
carts like quicksilver, and must have possessed the
utmost possible causticity. Without delay the land
was opened into drills of 28 inches apart, in the in-
tervals of which, farm-yard dung fully half rotted
was laid in an ample quantity ; the drills were re-
versed, and the seeds of beet inserted by the dibble
on the newly-made ridglets. Potatoes, Swedish
turnips, and common white and green globes were
sown in the same way, with lime in the same state
and quantity, and with the farm-yard dung suitably
prepared. In all cases the movement of the ground
by being twice drilled had the effect of mixing the
lime with the soil in the most intimate and commi-
nuted manner, and the appearance exhibited a spe-
men of the matrix of finely-blended materials, in
which vegetation delights to live and flourish. A
quantity of lime was left from the covering of the
field on which the common turnips were sown ; it
was laid on a space of ground in the middle of the
field, in a double dose, or 400 bushels per acre,
with the view of fairly calling into action and bring-
ing to sight the hurtful qualities of the magnesian
lime. The crops of every kind were most superb :
beet, potatoes, Swedish and common turnips were
very full and heavy crops, as were the wheat and
barley which followed the root crops, and the suc-
ceeding clovers and oats. No such crops had ever
been seen in that country, and they attracted a very
general notice. The wheat that grew on the space
of land which was doubly limed showed a most
visible superiority, from its first appearance above
ground till the ripened crop fell beneath the sickle.
The braird of the autumn and the leaves of winter
were thicker on the ground, and exhibited a colour
of a darker and healthier hue than the surrounding
vegetation ; the second growth of the spring
shooted earher, and the summer crop stood taller
than the rest of the field ; the maturation of the
grain arrived first of the crop, and the pickles were
more plump and more golden in the colour than
the other produce of the field j the straws or culms
were brighter and more reedy than the neighbour-
ing growths, and the shocks were thicker on the
ground in the autumn. The difference in the
growth and appearance of the crop was visible
during the whole winter and summer from every
view of the field.

Here was a complete disprovement of the univer-
sal opinion of the hurtful quality of magnesian lime;
and not only m the seemingly extra dose of 200
bushels on an acre, but in twice the amount being

380

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

attended with a very large benefit. The damage on
the limestone gravels of Doncaster may arise from
the constitution of the soil not being capable to
use the caloric that is transmitted by the lime.

The very great success on the clayey loams above
mentioned, arose from the deep and strong quality
of the soil in a heavy earth of loam, which was
mixed with the earths in an intimate commingling,
and contained a very considerable quantity of e.v-
uvial matters. These matters, having been formed
without combustion, are very recipient of caloric,
readily warmed, retain the heat very equally, and
are easily decomposed. The earthy parts of the
soil, being very much reduced and intimately mixed,
present a body equally favourable to caloric; and
the whole cultivable stratum was capable of being
thoroughly heated, and of using the caloric by re-
tention and radiation.

The instances that have now been cited of the
success and failure of lime on various soils, and
under different circumstances, may be sufficient to
prove the theory advanced of the efficacy of caloric;
and the well-known fact is ever concomitant, that
the action of all fertilizers is in direct ratio v/ith
the quality of the soil itself. The source of that
quality affords a full scope of action to the heat of
the lime, and supports the fact in the fullest de-
monstration.

It has been ever observed that composts of earth
and lime are more efficacious, on all lands below the
mediocre quality, than lime when used by itself;
and the fact arises from the earths in the composts
being of good qualitj', from the scourings of
ditches, scrapings of roads, and the virgin earth of
the sides of roads, and untouched patches and cor-
ners of ground. These substances imbibe and re-
tain the caloric of the lime ; and on whatever soil
the compost is used, the effects of the lime are cer-
tain, from the earths that are applied.

Earthy limestones, or limestones of the shale, are
the best for the fertilizing purposes, provided the
quality is not deteriorated beyond the just com-
parison. The salt must be at least one-third of the
composition. My attention was satisfied on this
point in Ayrshire, on the property of the Marquis
of Hastings, where two limestones were used in
nearly adjoining situations. The beds lie in an
insulated position, among the tilly clays of that
county, and seem to have no connection with the
usual subjacent and overlying formations. One
rock shewed the purest and whitest lime I have
ever seen, and the other was a coarse-looking bed
of limestone shale. I was told by the farmers of
the neighbourhood that the earthy lime was best
for the land, which my expei'ience Of it very fully
proved. The superiority arises from the earthy
part of the composition retaining the heat of the

burning, and conveying it to the land for the ben-
efit of the vegetation. It is not meant to say that
all coarse earthy limestones are the best, but only
that a considerable part of earth is useful in the
composition, and that benefit may depend not so
much upon the quantity as upon the mode of mix-
ture and the relative bearing to other substances.

Lime will be very beneficially applied to fallow
grounds by being spread on the surface in
burnt cinders of a small size, which have been re-
duced to the bulk of a goose's egg, from the parent
rock by the action of the hammer. A ploughing
of the land will cover the lime shells, and the mois-
ture in the soil will burst the cinders, which will
evolve much heat, of which the damp exhalations
will penetrate the ground, warm it, and raise the
temperature. Two operations of Finlayson's har-
row, done alternately lengthwise and crosswise,
will thorough mix the soil with the lime, and incor-
porate the two substances, and effect it in a way
very much superior to the usual mode of plough-
ing and harrowing. The subsequent drilUngs of
the ground will very materially assist the commin-
gling of the pulverised lime with the comminuted
earth. It is an application of lime that promises a
large benefit from the adoption.

A corollary of seeming importance may be drawn
from the above resolved problems on the applica-
tion of lime. Heat or fire is a violent agent, which
changes all bodies that undergo its action, ban-
ishes th? properties which they possess, and confers
new qualities that remain, while the former never
again return. In changing state or condition, the
bodies also change capacity. The retention of
moisture, and the contraction by heat, form the baf-
fling qualities of clay in respect of cultivation, while
the sulphuric acid which is present confers the
usual noxious quality of its nature. The mix-
ture of clay with hot lime, in compost heaps, shews
the complete subjugation of clay by the action
of lime: the earths are converted from dead, inert, or
even hurtful substances, into a soft, mucilaginous
mass, of easy decomposition, which constitutes a
manure of very considerable value. Hence all clays
of any kind or degree may be changed from the
stubborn and intractable nature into deep warm
loams of a value at least tripled in amount. In
order to completely change the nature of the clays,
so that the soil never again returns to the original
condition of wet aluminous earths, the agent must
possess sufficient power to overcome all resistance,
and to dissipate it in every form, that it does not
again assemble. Sands, chalks, and earths, may
be applied with the view of altering the texture of
clay lands; but the process will be slow and gradual,
if the mixture be done at all. The application is
formed of inert substances, which have no force of

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

S81

action beyond the power of external impulse. With
such agents, the viscous clay is exposed to no pene-
trating agency of attack, nor sutlers any constitu-
tional damage; the natural preponderance of its
quaUties will overcome the power of the materials,
set it at defiance, and altogether nuUify the effects.
Such is the fate of all attempts of that kind, from
want of the acting power being superior both in
quantity and quality to the resistance that is op-
posed to it. The quality of the inherent vigour
must be active, energetic, and powerful ; and it
must be in contact with circumstances which pro-
mote the action and call it into life. Fire and heat
are most violent agents, and penetrate, perforate,
crumble, reduce, and change all bodies that are
subjected to their action ; and the presence of air
and moisture are eftective in developing the calo-
rific action of lime in a calcined state.

Resolution of substances onl// is in the power
of man ; combination is reserved by nature to its
own operations, A mechanical mixture only can
be performed by human skill; but, in so doing,
there is afforded a ready opportunity of sub-
stances forming the intimate chemical combinations
which in other circumstances would not have hap-
pened.

Judging from the relative quantities of clays and
hme that are used in compost heaps, it may be in-
ferred that one bushel of lime-cinders to a cubic
yard of land will demolish the obstinacy of the
worst clays of the plastic and London formations,
and the same quantity may be required by the lias,
clunch, and Kimmeridge clays. The land must be
dug by the spade in the end of the summer fallow-
ing segison, and the cinders very carefully placed
in the trenches by the hand of the spadesman, who
will finish an acre of ground in three weeks, vv'hich
will cost £l l6s., reckoning the labourer at 2s. per
day. One spit of the spade will reach the depth of
nine inches, v/hich will require, to form a cubic yard,
a superficial area of 36 square feet, or four square
yards ; and an acre of ground contains 4840 square
yards, or 1210 cubic yards, which will require
1210 bushels of lime, at the average cost of six-
pence, will make an expense of £30 5s., and with
the digging-in, f 1 l6s., £32 Is. The general cost
per acre may be taken at £30.

The moisture in the clay soils, and the access of
air through the interstitial state of the land that re-
sults from the digging, will dissolve the hme-shells,
the bulk will swell, a large evolvement of heat will
follow, the caloric will thoroughly penetrate the
aluminous mass, unbind the texture, sever the par-
ticles, banish the sulphuric acid and water by the
process of vaporization, and after the action is ex-
pended, relapse into an earthy mixture with the
base of the clay, wliich will possess new properties,

and be so effectually disintegrated as never again
to contract into the old adherence of indurated
clamminess. The soil will be wholly altered into
a workable condition by the two-horse plough, and
will produce green crops of every kind in a very
large abundance. The capacity of the soil will
altogether be changed — less moisture, but still a
sufficient quantity will be imbibed; caloric will
produce the usual efifect of expansion, and the heat
will be duly received and equally husbanded. The
value will be raised in at least £1 per acre ; will pay
the outlay in a very fair time, and the security ex-
ceeds that of any bank, as it exists in the property
of the owner.

The very extreme solubility of lime in water, and
the consequent inutility for any active purpose, de-
mands all wet lands to be thoroughly drained be-
fore the lime is applied. Some clay lands are not
very wet : judgment will easily determine \vhether
the wetness needs to be removed. It is not here
asserted that one bushel of lime-cinders will tho-
roughly eiFect the purpose in the cubic yard of every
clay soil ; the statement is made as an analogical
probability, and trials must decide on the various
qualities and degrees of the clay-lands that occur
in Britain.

The above corollary maybe extended to the dig-
ging and mixing with lime every soil or land, what-
ever the degree or quality may be as naturally
formed. The very primest quality of loams may
not be eligibly meddled with ; but all lands that are
below 30s. an acre of yearly value, are capable
of bemg vastly improved by the calorific action of
lime, and by the residual earth of the neutral salt.
The original substances will be sweetened by the
action of the heated lime, and the staple will be en-
larged in the bulk by the earthy materials of the
lime. Gravelly, sandy, and earthy subsoils, being
dug in the depth of one foot, and mixed with hot
lime, will be converted into a new condition, of
which the temperature will be raised, and the
capacity in every shape improved. In the operation
of digging, the surface can be still kept on the top,
and have a mixture of lime given to it. The under-
soil will be penetrated, sundered, and mellowed by
the action of the lime, will become an aerified stra-
tum along with the upper layer^ and add to the
depth of the land, which ever forms a chief point
in the character of soils. The value of the in-
ferior loamy earths will be doubled by this pro-
cedure.

Though an idea may be old, yet there may al-
ways be found new uses and dispositions of it; so
that originality is equally exhibited in the adapta-
tion to various purposes, as in the primary concep-
tion. " Let us only find a thing," said D'Alem-
bcrt, the celebrated French raathematiciati> " and

382

THE FARMER'S iVIAGAZINE.

plenty of means will be found to put it into shape."
The idea may not be new that lime confers benefit
by raising the temperature of the ground ; but the
extension of its use to wholly convert clay-lands
into loams, may probably claim an early notice, if
not the original promulgation ; it is no chimera,
but the offspring of reason and the understanding;
it is a part of the lofty aim that must incite all our
actions, and be constantly before our eyes, if we
wish to attain any distinction or eminence. By
such proceeding, the objects of science and indus-
try are attained in the full and complete manner,
and in all the varied relations.

Such purposes as have now been detailed, are
the province of the landowner, who will reap the
permanent benefit. The farmer uses only his time
and capital in obtaining the fruition and in distri-
buting the results ; his general occupation realizes

the proceeds, rather than constitutes the founda-
tion. Great results recpure adequate means ; but
in such cases, not the means required, but the ulti-
mate object is the consideration— not what will be
the outlay, but what income maybe expected. The
above-mentioned alterations of land would quadru-
ple the produce of the United Kingdom, employ
labour, diffuse capital, cheapen the price of articles,
and enlarge the sphere of their use. These are the
legitimate objects of action ; the channels must be
widened, every avenue explored, and all impedi-
ments removed. Those -persons who write about
m,an, and the diflferent states and stages of his ex-
istence, moral, social, and political, would do well
to remember two things — the cultivation of the
earth, and the supply of the necessaries of life; for
they uphold or overturn all their ideal fabrics.

J. D.

LOUGHBOROUGH AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY

STATISTICS.

AGRICULTURAL

The following is the paper, on this important
subject, read by Mr. George Kilby, at the
Loughborough Agricultural Society's meeting on
Thursday, June I,

Mr. Chairman and Gentlemen, — The first want
of man is food for his subsistence, and what he
naturally seeks to obtain before all other things ; so
I conceive it is the duty of civiUzed governments to
assist him in procuring a supply of daily bread
whenever there may be an insufficiency of food.
Even in the days of the patriarchs we read of the
famine being "sore in the land," and Jacob address-
ing his sons in a tone of reproach for their seem-
ing apathy, in these emphatic words, "Why do ye
look one upon another? Behold, I have heard
there is corn in Egypt : get ye down thither, and
buy for us from thence, that we may live, and not
die." It is true, we of modern times have not
been visited with famine to such an extent as this,
or of tliose of which we read in the history of our
own country ; still we must recollect that within a
few years, from the failure of only one particular
article of food, gaunt famine made fearful havoc in
the sister kingdom. By this visitation, many of
her inhabitants perished for the want of food ; and
so greatly was the calamity felt and feared by others,
that they fled from their native land to seek subsis-
tence in foreign climes ; and her population, from
these causes, has been diminished to such a degree
as to render it impossible to conceive what will be
the result to her as a prosperous country for the
future. We have every reason to be thankful that
Providence has not visited this country with such

calamities in our day, but there is no telling what
may be the case hereafter, for He who sent the po-
tato blight can also blight the v/heat, and it be-
hoves all provident governments to use every pre-
caution to alleviate, by all means in their power,
such awful visitations in case they should again oc-
cur. How deficient in foresight would this great
nation be accounted, if she were found, under a
severe scarcity of corn, not to be as early and as
correctly informed on the subject as her neigh-
bours on the continent ! Yet there is not the least
doubt that on the eve of the last harvest, with all
her boasted acquirements of useful knowledge, the
government was greatly behind that of France in
forming an estimate of its produce. We find this
matter to be considered of such impoi'tance in that
country, that the Emperor began his speech to the
Legislative Chambers to the following effect : —
" that the government had found the insufficiency
of the harvest to be ten million hectolitres, which
it could not undertake to purchase. Commerce
alone could do it ; but it did the only thing possible,
by encouraging purchases and in setting the im-
port of grain free from all duties." Then he adds,
"seven million hectolitres of foreign corn had
already been imported for home consumption, and
the rest was either in bond or on its way." From
this it is clear that the government of France knew
accurately their position early in the season, when
we were left only to conjecture as to the yield of
our harvest. Their system of collecting agricul-
tural statistics gives them a decided advantage over
this country, in making early provision for a sup-

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

383

ply of food for the people from foreign nations
when their own falls short. This fact has been
fully exemplified this season ; for we find that the
French merchants laid in their stocks of wheat at
a much less cost than our own, in consequence of
their early and correct information ; and we scarcely
began to think of our own position till we found
large purchases were made by France from the
grain-supplying ports. Without wasting the va-
luable time of this meeting in crossing the Atlantic
for American examples, to our colonies, or to
other countries nearer home, this fact alone is suf-
ficient, in my humble opinion, to induce us to co-
operate with government in devising some method
whereby we may be enabled to form as correct an
estimate as other nations of the supply of food
which any particular harvest will produce to meet
the wants of the people for the ensuing twelve
months. No doubt it is from the example afforded
us by foreign nations that the subject now under
discussion has so forcibly attracted the attention of
our rulers, and taken such strong hold upon the
public mind. During the few past years experi-
ments have been made, first in Ireland, then in
Scotland, and afterwards in England, with the de-
sire of legislating upon the subject with the best
effect; and our government is pledged to pass
some law for this purpose ; and allow me to say
that discussions on this matter, at meetings of so-
cieties like the present, may probably give some
hints to our legislators which may be useful in
framing laws on this very difficult question, which
may prove beneficial to the country. I am glad
to find, sir, that the subject which you have done
me the honour of allowing me to introduce at this
society has been framed on a liberal basis, and that
I am not required to prove that the adoption of a
system of " correct agricultural statistics" shall be
of advantage to any particular class, but on its
merits as a general question, " will it be of advan-
tage to the public ?" I shall, therefore, mainly
argue it on this ground ; and I beg to observe that
I believe any measure enacted by the legislature,
the result of which proves to be of public benefit,
will not in the end be prejudicial to our own par-
ticular interests. I thank the committee that they
have not imposed upon me any restrictions in this
respect ; for I think the time is gone by when any
public body should discuss a question of national
policy in any other spirit than "will it be for the
public benefit in its general results ?" At the same
time, allow me to say that I shall not shrink from
remarking upon the effect which I believe the col-
lecting " correct agricultural statistics" in this
country will have upon its agricultural interests.
I am, sir, of opinion that it is a great disadvantage
to this country in not having so early and correct

information as to its internal resources being suf-
ficient to supply food for the population, while
other nations think it an obligation and a duty to
make themselves acquainted with the probable
amount of the fruits of the earth, about the time of
gathering them in, at their disposal for the ensuing
year, when, alas ! we are left in doubt and con-
jecture. This affords them a decided advantage
over us in seeking and obtaining those foreign
supplies which are necessary to makeup any defi-
ciency, consequently giving greater facility to the
commerce of those countries than we possess.
This fact was never more plainly exemplified than
at the last harvest, as I have before stated, in re-
gard to France. Had we possessed similar infor-
mation to that which they had at that time, our mer-
chants would have been in the market, and pur-
chased corn on as good terms as those of that
country ; but we find they had filled their granaries
with foreign corn, bought at a low price, before we
were acquainted with our own wants. We followed
them into the market when prices had risen, in con-
sequence of their extensive purchases, and were ob-
liged to get our supply of grain at a much higher
rate. Now, sir, I think there is not the least doubt
but a large saving to this country would have re-
sulted had we possessed a correct system of agricul-
tural statistics, or one equal to that of France.
Shall it be said that we, as an enlightened nation,
ought much longer to remain in this state of ig-
norance on an important public question with which
our continental neighbours are perfectly ac-
quainted ? I know it may be said that the saving
of which I have spoken would have resulted from
buying corn at a lower rate than could have been
done had the public not known the state of the
crops, and consequently would have further de-
pressed the price in this country. I by no means
wish to infer that the buying of such foreign corn
at a less price by our merchants would have been,
as far as the bargain goes, any benefit to the
farmers of this country ; but we must look further,
and trace the results. Whatever profits made by
early purchases would have gone into the pockets
of our merchants, and suppose they cleared a mil-
lion of money by the speculation, it would be better
for this country than they should not have bought
till the advance upon the article had amounted to
that sum, which in that case would, to the same
extent, have benefited th« foreign merchant at the
expense of this country generally, whoever the in-
dividual or individuals might be that made the
lucky speculation ; therefore, in the case which I
have put, probably a miUion of money might have
been saved at the last harvest had we possessed
" correct agricultural statistics." I well know, sir,
that farmers are very sensitive as to cheap corn,

THE FARMEH'S MAGA^lKfi.

and from what they have sutiered during the last
seven or eight years from this cause, I can only say
I wish I were ignorant of the fact that they have
great reason to be so. But let us go a little further.
Suppose we had possessed knowledge equal to our
neighbours across the channel at the last harvest as
to its probable yield, what would have been the ef-
fect upon our own markets ? I find the average
price of wheat for the week ending on the 27th
August, 1853, was 48s. 6d. per quarter, and on the
13th, twov/eeks previous, it was 53s. 3d.; so that it
actually fell 4s. 9d. per quarter in a fortnight, on
the eve of one of the most deficient harvests as re-
gards that grain on record. Nov/, I ask, could this
have occurred, had v/e known our true position in
reference to the harvest then at hand ? Had we
known our real state by collecting information as
to the probable yield of such harvest, we should
have found, at least we should have been acquainted
with the fact, that it would be a very deficient one,
especially from two causes, — first, that from the
wet autumn the land was not in a fit state to re-
ceive the seed, and only a very small breadth was
sown, but we were ignorant as to the extent, and
if v/e had that finished in the spring, the whole
would fall short of the average quantity, still we
should be ignorant of the average under this all-
important crop ; second, that the produce of the
whole would be greatly beneath an average, pro-
bably two-fifths, but this v/as all guess work, v/hich
a system of agricultural statistics would com-
pletely dispel. Had this been known to the public
by correct returns, our merchants would have been
in the foreign market buying all the grain they
could have laid their hands on. Our farmers would
have been easy about thrashing, knowing the great
deficiency, and that prices must soonrise at home;
none of that decline I have quoted would have oc-
curred, and those farmers who are most needy, and
thrash and sell their corn as soon as they get it,
would have reaped the advantage of this early ad-
vance. Now, sir, it is clear to me that if v/e pos-
sessed those statistics which we ought to have, it
would be the means of keeping the price of corn
more uniform. We should not have those extremes
in rates in a few months which we experienced
after the last harvest. I have said that in the last
week of August, 1853, the average price of wheat
was 48s. 6d. per quarter, and I find in the last week
in January, lS54~that is, in five months — it had
advanced to 83s. 3d., showing an excess per quarter
of 34s. 2d., or nearly 68 per cent. I am firmly
convinced that, had we had a system such as I ad-
vocate for ascertaining the quantity and quality of
our crops last harvest, the value of corn would not
have varied so greatly as it did. Prices would have
advanced mixch sooner, and at a time when a great

bulk of home-grown wheat is always brought into
the market; but they would have been lower when
it was more heavily supplied with foreign. I there-
fore contend that, thus far, correct agricultural sta-
tistics would be of benefit to the home producer,
and especially to those who are forced to sell early
from needy circumstances. At the same time I do
not mean to assert that corn would have gone to
that high rate which we experienced in January ;
and, sir, I must confess I do not think extreme
fluctuations, with high prices at particular periods,
and very low ones at others, is of any permanent
advantage to the British farmer. Then I am per-
suaded that the adoption of " a system of correct
agricultural statistics" would have the effect of
keeping prices more steady, as all parties would
know what they had to depend upon, and on an
average of years I cannot see that such a system
would have the effect of reducing agricultural pro-
duce below its legitimate value. Many persons
have affected to believe a measure of this kind
would interfere between [landlord and tenant as to
existing agreements — that it will expose the affairs
of the occupiers in an ungracious manner, and
reveal to the public what ought to remain secret, as
regards a man's private business ; yet, I do hope,
sir, that the wisdom of our rulers will find it pos-
sible to devise a plan on such principles as will be
entirely free from these anticipated evils. Sup-
pose, on the other hand, these statistical returns
proved that our harvest would be an average or even
an abundant one, how would the system work ?
In such a case there would be no reason that our
merchants should be in haste to purchase corn from
other countries; and this knowledge would prevent
any glut from large supplies of foreign being
brought into the market immediately after harvest.
Speculation would cease, and there v/ould be no
depressing effect from that cause ; therefore, prices
would be prevented from falling to that very low
point they would do if we were groping in the dark.
Ignorance never brought home any good to its
possessor, and I think never will; but knowledge
always sheds a light before the steps of the
traveller, and will guide him safely on to bis
journey's end. If the question be put to me. What
do you mean by " correct agricultural statistics" ?
I answer, the list of items will be rather numerous,
and they are i-equired to supply the place of ignor-
ance by a diffusion of knowledge. All the acute
information which political economists have given
us in this matter, I believe to be signally incorrect j
not from any inclination on the part of those who
have written most learnedly and confidently on the
subject, but from the want of actual data whereon to
calculate results. Thus, McCulloch and Porter
tell lis the number of acres under each particular

fm ]?AMi:R*s UA(iAzm%

crop of grain, the average yield of each — the num-
ber of cattle, sheep, horses, and swine in the king-
dom. Now such statements, I believe, rest merely
on supposition : they may in some instances be
nearly correct, and in others extremely wide of the
truth. The statistics we want are such as will place
these matters beyond all doubt ; consequently, to
be correct, we require that a return be made of the
number of each kind of stock every individual has
in his possession throughout the length and breadth
of the land. Then, as regards land, how many
acres in permanent and annual grass ; what portion
is grazed and what mown ; how much arable land
and what quantity of acres in each grain and pulse
crops, for instance — wheat, rye, barley, oats, beans,
peas, vetches, &c. ; then what in roots — turnips,
potatoes, cabbage, mangold, carrots, and all other
kinds ; also what is jjlanted to raise the seeds of
vegetables ? I would not ask any man to state
what quantity of land he has without any crop ; that
would be invidious, and could answer no good pur-
pose; some farmers might boast they had none,
and others might fear ridicule from having too
much. We may reasonably suppose that this re-
"turn, as fartis it goes, would be correctly and easily
made ; it would merely be a registration of facts.
But thus far our labours are but half completed : the
most important matter is to obtain as accurately as
possible the probable yield of each crop of any par-
ticular harvest about the time it is gathered in ; for
at present we have no means of knowing how far we
can, from our own resources, feed the people. I
believe, in order to arrive at this result, we must
submit to some government interference, and I trust
that it may be so managed as not to be offensive to
those who wiU be obliged to supply the details. I
admit that great difficulty exists in devising a plan
to be effective and not offensive on this part of the
subject ; for at best, it can only be an estimate of the
produce of a harvest which is only just at hand. We
must have returns in this case of more value
than those made in Ireland ; for they were
truly Irish, not being delivered in till fifteen months
after the harvest to which they referred, thus telling
us the quantity of corn at our disposal three
months after it has been consumed. We must not
make a bull of this sort. We, in fact, want to
know the produce of the harvest now gathering in ;
consequently, it can only be an estimate, as the
grain is not thrashed, much less weighed or mea-
sured ; and we must take means to get this estimate
as correct as possible. The published returns for
three counties in Scotland appear to me to attempt
to prove too much ; for they give, for each district
to which they refer, the number of quarters, bushels,
and pecks of corn, and the tons, hundredweights,
and quarters of roots. I do not see how a return

to such a nicety could be made at the tune of har-
vesting ; and such a plan is calculated to throw
distrust upon the whole. To have statistics of real
value, it involves the necessity upon the farmer of
stating what number^of acres he has under each kind
of crop, and the number and kinds of stock he has
on his farm, as before mentioned. Inquiries of this
kind are not very palatable for us to answer ; still,
they are necessary, and must be submitted to, if it
be required for the nation's good ; but great care
ought to be taken that they are made in a manner
the least offensive. Perhaps that may be effected
by forms being transmitted to every occupier of
land, requiring him to fill them up correctly ; and
I can see no valid objection to this, in case they
are kept from the public eye. No man, I think,
would like to make such a return, and have it sub-
mitted to a board of guardians, where it might be
examined by his neighbours as a matter of curio-
sity. I know it has been suggested by some that
the officers of unions would be proper persons to
employ in this work ; but I really think that would
be highly objectionable, and by no means satisfac-
tory to those who have to make the returns. Re-
lieving officers have enough to do, if they attend to
their duties properly, and are debarred from exer-
cising any other employment than that prescribed
by their office ; and the clerks are men whose habits
are foreign to everything connected with agricul-
ture. I think assistant overseers of the poor might
be employed to distribute notice-papers to occu-
piers ; and when the latter have filled them up, they
should return them by post, sealed, to some officer
appointed for a certain district, who should be
sworn not to divulge their contents. By this
officer they should be properly classified, and en-
tered into a book, which he should transmit to
Government. This will only complete one-half of
the task : we have yet to provide for the most diffi-
cult part of the scheme — that is, the yield of pro-
duce of the acres under cultivation ; and by whom
shall this estimate be made ? Such estimates for
corn and pulse crops, to be of real value, should be
published as soon as the harvest is got in; there-
fore, it will be necessary that it should be made
about the first week in August, and that of root
crops near the first week in October. These dates
may vary according to seasons. Now, sir, comes
the question. Who is to make this estimate? It
can only be done by judging of the crops from
observation when growing. It does strike me that
it would be difficult to find any person so well able
to judge correctly of the yield of these various crops
as he who cultivates them. He has known, pro-
bably, for many years past, what their annual
average produce has actually been on his farm;
and if he be a man of tolerable judgment, [he can

386

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

tell, I think, better than any other person, from
their present aspect and appearance, what they
will prove to be in the end. I know this plan is
objected to by many; and they allege that the
farmer would, from interested motives, not make
the return according to his real judgment. I
do not think there are many farmers — at least,
I hope not — who would do violence to their
conscience in this matter; and I firmly believe
that as correct an estimate will be come to
by these means as by any other that can be devised.
But suppose we say that the farmer is not to be
trusted in forming an estimate of his own produce,
then I see but one way in which we can overcome
the difficulty — and that will be rather an expensive
one. The country must be divided into districts,
over which inspectors must be appointed, and if the
work is to be well done these districts must not in-
clude a large area of land. The individual ap-
pointed to this office should possess many qualifi-
cations, to enable him to perform his duties satis-
factorily. He must a be a man who has had great
experience in agricultural practice — of sound judg-
ment in estimating the difference in the fertility of
various soils, and acquainted with their actual pro-
duce ; a man of integrity, and one that would carry
with him the respect of those whose crops it might be
his duty to inspect ; his demeanour and bearing
oughttobe that of a gentleman of courteous manners,
who would make his inquiries in a way that would
divest them of that inquisitorial aspect which of
necessity they must in some measure partake, and
not as a blustering imperious Government official,
I believe a great deal depends upon the bearing and
manner of those who, under such a system, would
be intrusted in estimating and collecting these sta-
tistics, in order to obtain them with any degree of
accuracy. I know, sir, this is a delicate subject to
treat of before this highly respectable body of agri-
culturists, and that some may conclude that they
will be required to publish more as regards their
private occupation than those engaged in trade
and commerce. If there be such present, I would
ask them to look calmly at the question, and not
to make up their minds too hastily — to consider its
importance not alone to agricultural interests, but
to the commerce and the people of this great nation,
and not to throw obstacles in the way of its adop-
tion until they are convinced that it would be of no
benefit to the country generally. Having thus, sir,
at much too great a length, given some reasons
why I think it will be of advantage to this nation
to possess " correct agricultural statistics," and
ventured, as I am aware, very imperfectly, to throw
out some hints as to the way in which I think it
might be accomplished, and from what we see
passing around us must l)efore long be carried into

effect in one form or another, we all must be
sensible that whatever scheme Government may
adopt, it will be a work of considerable difficulty,
and cannot be divested of an inquisitorial character
— its very nature is such ; j^et I hope there may be
no necessity to render it compulsory, and that those
who cultivate the soil of Old England will not feel
any great reluctance to acquaint the world with the
produce they raise from it. The fact of knowing
under what particular crop every cultivated
acre of land in this kingdom is annually
placed will be gaining something; and a
register of every head of stock bred and
fed would further add to our knowledge ; and
the last point, of ascertaining at each harvest the
probable amount of its produce, that the wants of
the people might be provided for, the work would
be completed ; and in so doing I think the nation
would gain valuable information of general interest,
and I trust not detrimental to any particular class.
I now, sir, conclude with apologising for the length
of time I have detained this meeting, and I beg to
thank you most cordially for the attention with
which you have listened to my observations on the
question before us ; and I hope any one present
will freely remark upon what I have advanced. I
by no means conceive that I possess a greater in-
sight into this subject than any gentleman in this
room ; and I only presumed to introduce it in order
to elicit the opinion of the Loughborough Agricul-
tural Society on a subject which I believe will
shortly occupy the serious attention of the Legisla-
ture, and in which the members of that society will
have to act an important part.

Different Weights of the Stone. —
Smithfield, Slbs. of 16 oz. ; imperial weight, 14lbs.
of 16 oz. ; common Scotch, l61bs. of 16 oz. ;
Glasgow Tron, l61bs. of 22 oz.; Ayrshire Tron,
I61bs. of 24 oz.; Dutch, l/ilbs. of 16 oz.
Nothing is more desirable in Britain than an
equalization of weights and measures ; the hitherto
Legislative acts on the subject are not compulsory
and therefore useless for the intended purpose.

Carcase and Offal. — The following shows

the proportion of carcase and offal in 10 stone of
each respectively : —

Carcase. Offal.

St. lbs. St. Ibsi

Devon 6 13 2 Ah

Durham ........ 6 13.i 2 li

Hereford.... 5 12| 3 2

Highland ....... 5 6 4 4*

Cross .. 4 1h '1 41

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

387

FOOD FOR THE MILLION.— INDIAN CORN.

Although strong prejudices still exist in Western
Europe to the use of maize as an article of food, more
especially in England, such must sooner or later give
way before the progress of science, since none of the
cerealia holds out greater prospects of a regular supply
than it does, especially to the limited means of our labour-
ing population. From a tabular statement formerly
given, it will be recollected that its nutritive value stands
thus in comparison with wheat : —

English fine Wheaten Indian Corn
Flour. Meal.

Gluten 10 12

Fat 2 8

Starch, &c 72 66

Water 16 14

100

Now, from this, it appears that Indian corn meal is
two per cent, richer in gluten, and six per cent, in fat,
than fine wheaten flour ; so that the difference is greatly
in its favour. The fact that our transatlantic cousins
use it largely, proves the soundness of our proposition ;
for they and their forefathers entered the New World
with all the prejudices of the mother country as to food.
When they first settled they did not like " mush"
(porridge of Indian-corn meal), owing to its peculiar
taste ; but now the yellow meal which has the strongest
flavour is preferred to the white, in the majority of pro-
vinces. How do we account for such changes ?

" Experience is the great master teacher" in food as
in other things. Indian-corn meal is not only more
nourishing than wheaten flour, but also more wholesome
to the generality of people, owing to the large quantity
of fat and peculiar medicinal elements which it contains,
and this is just what experience teaches Englishmen
when they arrive in America. At first, however sus-
piciously they may look at their " mush" and " Johnny
cakes," they soon find they keep the stomach and
bowels in better order than wheaten flour, lubricating
the whole system, and promoting a higher degree of
health at much less expense. They also find that the
palate not only becomes reconciled to its peculiar
flavour, but to relish it in preference to the comparative
insipidity of fine wheaten flour. Even in England
herself, where prejudices in dietetics are probably
stronger than in any other branch of science, farming
itself not excepted, the more intelligent now admit that
savoury food is absolutely essential to good health, even
in the case of the hard-working man. The day was
when exercise was thought the best seasoning for his
food, being sufificient to qualify almost anything so as
to secure an ample supply of health, and that savouri-
ness was only required by " gentle stomachs ;" but such
a day is gone, while the experience of modern times has
established a conclusion virtually the opposite — that
labouring people, although their complaints may be less

heard of, or cared for, than those of the rich, do not yet
enjoy that amount of health which is sometimes attri-
buted to be the result of exercise ; and that what they
do enjoy is as much dependent upon the medicinal
quality of the food consumed, so to speak, as its mere
nutritive character, or amount of alimentary matter :
instead of their hard toil, for instance, exposure to the
vicissitudes of climate, and confinement occasionally
during day, and generally during night, in damp and
badly-ventilated hovels, being in favour of health, it but
too frequently proves the reverse — in short, their
exercise, instead of being in degree just what the greatest
amount of health demands, shoots as far beyond the
mark, if not farther, than that of those of sedentary
habits falls short of it ; consequently they require the
most savoury diet of the two, in order to assist their
stomachs and alimentary system in manufactaring and
working up the extra quantity of food required to
support life under such circumstances. Now, the
preference given by the American labourer to yellow
corn meal over either white or wheaten flour, proves
that the more active flavouring matter of the former
possesses medicinal qualities favourable to health : in
other words, " mush," Johnny cakes, pancakes, dump-
lings, &c., of yellow corn meal, are more savoury than
those made of white corn meal, or the batter puddings,
biscuits, &c., of the mother country, made of wheaten
flour.

But although experience has thus established beyond
a doubt that Indian corn is wholesome — indeed, the
most so of all the cerealia — yet chemical science, we are
afraid, has not yet sufficiently investigated its medicinal
qualities so as to account satisfactorily for it. More
searching and detailed analyses are required in order to
enable us to say why it is more healthy than wheat as an
article of food ; for the difference in the proportions of
gluten and fat, in the above analyses, is insufficient to
do so. No doubt the extra quantity of fat — equivalent
to upwards of one pound to every stone of wheaten
flour — makes it more grateful to the alimentary canal ;
but when this quantity of suet, butter, olive oil, or palm
oil, is added, so as to place the two upon a footing of
equality as to fat, there is yet a wide difference between
them. And independently of the peculiar aroma of maize
—that which more particularly distinguishes it from
wheat as to taste — the qualities of the gluten, starch, and
fat, appear also to be different from those of other
cereals, according to Dr. Pereira and others who have
written on the subject ; indeed, we have only to cook
and eat a dish of mush, or Brown Johnny cake (Indian
Yorkshire pudding), to appreciate the soundness of the
proposition at issue. It is also different in its mecha-
nical construction or granulation from wheat, thus pre-
senting a dissimilar resistance to the stomach ; but these
chemical and mechauical differences require further

388

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

investigation, we say, in order to enable us to apply
them successfully or to the greatest advantage in the art
of cookery.

Although yellow corn meal is generally preferred in
America to white, yet in not a few cases it is otherwise.
For instance, in answer to the Patent Office Circular,
Washington, from Xenia, Ohio, Mr. Alexander RufF
writes as follows: — "The yellow varieties are most
esteemed for distilling and fattening stock ; the white
preferred for bread and other purposes." Dr. .Tohn
Little, of Cass co., Indiana — " White flint most esteemed
for making bread;" and Dr. Lee, quoting from the
Report of the Ohio Board of Agriculture, 1849, says: —
" Three varieties are cultivated — the common gourd seed
for cattle, the yellow Kentucky for hogs and distilling,
and the white for grinding and exportation." So that
the question as to quality is far from a settled one,
especially when we take into consideration the fact that
the yellow h the most hardy, and easily cultivated in
the northern states, and the influence which such must
have upon the habits and opinions of consumers.

In order to illustrate quality, and the necessity of
farther chemical research, we shall quote the proximate
organic analyses of three samples of Indian corn, by
Dr. Salisbury, of Albany, New York, that under co-
lumn I. being the larger variety of eight^rowed yellow
corn; II., small eight-rowed yellow; and III,, white
flint- corn :

Gluteu 0.

Albumen

Caseiu ,

Fibre „ • . . .

Oil

Starch

Dextrine

Sugar and extract
Water

11.

III.

5.40

560

769

3.32

6.00

! 3.40

0.75

2.20

0.50

11.96

26.80

18.01

3.71

3 90

1 4.68

49.22

30.29

1 4034

1.89

,4.61

i 290

955

5.20

j 8.30

1400

13.40

j 14.00

99.80

98.00

1 99.82

Now, from this table, it will be seen that white flint-
corn is richer in nitrogenous and fatty matter than the
larger variety of yellow ; and although it is deficient in
the former, when compared with the small yellow, it
yet contains a larger per-centage of the latter (fat) than it
does : so that the question of colour being an index of
quality becomes a problematical one.

The above analyses, however, when compared with the
preceding, quoted from " The Chemistry of Common
Life," and that by M. Payen, from Dr. Pereira's
" Elements of Materia Medica and Therapeutics," sub-
joined, may be queried ; for the difference between the
first and second columns, in the quantity of fibre, is
not very easily reconciled with the results of experience
in the feeding of stock. In other two examples of yel-
low corn, the one (Golden Sioux) yields 18.50 per cent,
of fibre, and the other (Ohio Dent) 21.36, with a
medium of the two examples given as to oil, the latter
giving 4.62 gluten, 3.88 albumen, and 1.32 casein; and
the former, gluten 5.00, albumen 4.42, and casein 1.92,
so that dissimilarities are not so great. The following

is the result of
ferred to :

M. Payen's investigations, just re-

Starch 67.55

Gluten and other azotized matter 12.50

Dextrine and glucose 4.00

Fat , 8 80

Cellulose , 5.90

Silica, potash, &c 1.25

100.00

The above, taking into consideration that it is the
analysis of the article in a dried state, corresponds
pretty nearly with that given in the first paragraph,
where the meal is in its natural state, or rather, with 16
per cent, of water, the per-centage of water being very
varied, as we shall by-and-by see ; and although the
two may be admitted as more accurate than the trans-
atlantic examples, they are yet scarcely more satisfac-
tory, from their taking no notice of the different
varieties, colours, and tastes which this interesting
cereal exhibits.

The inorganic elements of our cerealia must also exer-
cise a very important influence upon their nutritive value
in food, as the following tabular statement will show :

o
0^

Potiish and soda

31
3

li>

1
46

26
6
10

S-2

f
23

33
5

lOi

48.}
1
?
i

32-1

45
1

46.50
4.50
6.9S

28.85
5.85

0.84
4.30
2.12

58
91

Magnesia .

Oxide of iron

Phosphoric acid

Sulphuric acid

Per-centage of ash in
corn

2.25

The column under Peas is by Professor "Way ; the
others from Professor Johnston's " Catechism of Agri-
cultural Chemistry :" and the dift'erence between the
several columns cannot fail of impressing our readers
with the effect which they must have in cookery.

No doubt, the per-centage of ash in the grain is
small, as seen in the last line, there being only 21bs. of
ash, for example, to eveiy 981bs. of organic matter in
maize ; so that the daily consumption of the elements of
the former is small. Still, little as they may be, when
we consider the fact that nearly one pound, or the half,
is phosphoric and sulphuric acid, upwards of one-third
potash, soda, and lime, and one-sixth nearly of mag-
nesia, it is evident that such active chemical agents
must play a very important part in the economy of life,
so to speak. The use of salt in cooking illustrates this
in a very forcible manner ; for each of the above kinds
of corn contains a deficiency of it to support health,
while they each require different quantities of it to season
them. The blood of a healthy person contains potash,
soda, and all the other articles mentioned, and more
than they, and must have a regular supply of them for
building and keeping in repair the system ; while differ-
ent degrees of health may not only require different
proportions, but the presence of others, which

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

some cereals, as maize, may contain, but v;hich
others, as wheat, do not, or they may have to be de-
rived from other sources than our cerealia. Iodine, for
instance, is contained in water-cresses now so largely
used in the metropolis ; while codliver-oil exhibits iodine,
bromine, phosphoric compounds, &c., whose united ac-
tion has procured for it so much fame both as medicine
for man and beast.

A regular supply of inorganic elements, in just pro-
portions to one another, is, therefore, essential to good
health, as is that of the organic. Now when we perceive
that those proportions are so very unlike in our different
cereals, and that dissimilar constitutions, degrees of health
and exercise, demand such, it consequently increases the
duty of chemical science at the present moment to ascer-
tain with a greater degreeof accuracy than either the Ame-
rican or European analysis quoted exhibits, what are the
number of elements, organic and inorganic, which maize
contains, their proportions to one another, and the effect
which they have when administered in a natural form, or
in combination with other vegetable or animal products.
The numerous varieties which are grown, and the pecu-
liar characteristics of each as to colour and taste, not
only invite, but hold out flattering prospects to such an
invistigation, both in a culinary and medical sense.

The consumption of Indian corn is fast gaining
ground throughout the whole of the continent of Europe,
and also its cultivation ; so that the probability is, that
the industry and perseverance of French and German
chemists will be the first to solve the problem at issue,
informing us not only of its value in comparison with
other cereals, but also which of the varieties cultivated is
the best.

We have entered somewhat more at length into this
chemical view of the question, lest eventually it should
turn out that Americans have been prejudiced by circum-
stances as to the best quality of Indian corn. We al-
ways put a high value upon the judgment of experience,
whose award at present is in favour of yellow corn ; but
as she finds that this kind is easier grown than the white,
and has consequently accustomed herself to it, the ques-
tion arises, has she allowed habit and her pocket, two
very influential companions, to bias her judgment ?
Looking at the difference of opinion which exists upon
the subject, with the whole facts of the case, it is not
very easily avoiding the affirmative answer. At the same
time, it is manifest that colouring matter must affect
quality. The yellow or red meal, for instance, is said to
be sweetest. Now redness of colour indicates sweetness
in many fruits, as gooseberries, and even cornstalks, &c. ;
so tliat if this is all the difference, it may only amount to
a certain percentage of sugar, which may be added in
the cooking. On the contrary, the colouring matter and
extra quantity of sugar, in combination, may possess
very active principles ; and, moreover, the compounds
of art never equal those of nature in their medicinal
efficacy.

Indian-corn meal of every kind, the white as well as
the yellow, has a flavour or taste peculiar to itself, irre-
spectively of sweetness, which the prejudices of this
country have yet to overcome. The quantity of sugar

Vk'hich sue annually consumes, proies that the English
taste is not averse to sweetness, but the contrary ; so
that chemical inquiry has got something else to search
for than saccharine matter. Moreover, the analysis of
Dr. Salisbury quoted do not prove the white to be defi-
cient of sugar. American science and taste are here
divided.

Indian corn is either used in a green state like peas, or
in meal cooked in various ways. In the former case the
green corn is cut as required, and boiled for ten minutes
in the ear — sometimes with the leaves that encase it ; and
either eaten off the cob with butter, pepper, and salt, or
the boiled corn is stripped, or cut off the cob with a
knife, into a dish, where it is mixed with the above in-
gredients, and helped at table with a spoon ; or the
green corn may at once he cut from the cob into a pan,
and done with butter, &c. Green corn soups are also
made with milk, in the same manner as rice, Scotch or
pearl barley, in this country ; sometimes a little butter,
flour, and eggs are added, just before the saucepan is
taken off the fire. When boiled along with meat, it
forms what is well-known in some of our provinces as
broth. Other vegetables may be added, so as to make
"hodge-podge," &c. &c.

Another mode of cooking green corn is in dumplings
and puddings. Miss Leslie gives the following recipe
for the former : —
" A quart of young Indian corn grated from the cob,

Half a-pint of wheat-flour sifted ;

A pint of milk ;

Sis table- spoonfuls of butter ;

Three eggs ;

A tea-spoonful of salt, and a salt-spoonful of pepper ;

Butter or lard for frying."

Having grated as fine as possible sufiicient young
fresh corn to make a quart, mix it with the wheat flour,
and add the salt and pepper. Warm the milk in a
saucepan, and when warm put in the butter to soften,
mixing it with a spoon. Then add, gradually, the milk
and butter to the corn and flour. Stir the mixture hard,
and set it away to cool. Beat the eggs very light, and stir
them gradually into the mixture ; then stir the whole
very hard ; then flour your hands, and make it up into
little dumplings or balls. If the mixture is not stiff
enough, add some more grateii corn. Having heated a
frying pan or a skillet over the fire, put into it a suf-
ficiency of fresh butter (or butter and lard in equal por-
tions), and when it is boiling hot, and has been skimmed,
put in the dumplings (as many at a time as the pan will
conveniently hold), and fry them ten minutes or more,
in proportion to their thickness. Then drain them, and
send them hot to the dinner table. Eat them with meat.

Nantucket Pudding. — Boil six or seven ears of green
corn ; grate them down from the cob ; mix a quarter-
pound of butter, and the same weight of sugar ; add a
pint of milk and four eggs, and season with powdered
nutmeg and mace. Put the pudding in a buttered dish,
and bake it in the oven for two hours. Eat with butter
and sugar, or sweetened cream.

In some such manner a large quantity of Indian corn
is annually consumed, not only in America but also the

JD D 2

390

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

continent of Europe, Africa, and Asia ; and in a season like
the past, when wheat and old corn were selling so high,
the consumption would be greatly increased. In the more
favourable climates of this country — English, Irish, and
Scotch — it might also be profitably grown for cooking
in a green state, forming an important economical link
between the old and new corn, when prices generally
range high— even beyond the means of the poor man
obtaining a proper supply. In this respect the labourers
and farmers of the continents of Europe and America,
who grow maize, have a very great advantage over their
Anglican neighbours. In the absence of statistical in-
formation as to the facts of the case, it would be the
height of speculation to say how much might this year
have been consumed more than ordinary ; at the same
time, it would be equally unfair in the opposite extreme
to suppose that it has not been considerable — sufficient
to exercise a very important influence upon corn mar-
kets. Starvation prices amid fields of green Indian
corn is even an absurdity too gross for speculation
herself swallowing, in these steam locomotion times. By
the month of July we ought to have green Indian corn
imported to Covent Garden, if the metropolis would
only learn to eat Nantucket puddings, &c., as it now
eats French beans.

Good Indian-corn meal is hardly to be had in this
country; for, judging from some forty to fifty samples
we have purchased, upwards of the one-half would not
be considered, in America, fit for human food. Even the
best samples of corn on the Corn Exchange smell musty
— an infallible proof that injury has been sustained,
either in the " crib" before marketing, or subsequently
in granary or vessel during transport.

For some time past our transatlantic cousins have been
deeply impressed with the necessity of more attention
being paid to the quality of dairy produce and salted
provisions exported to the mother country ; but if they
would only turn their eyes to their breadstufFs, especially
Indian corn, they would find the Union sustained a
much greater loss from this latter source than the
former, and that consequently it presented a wider field
of usefulness before them, promising results not very
easily estimated in the present revolutionary progressive
state of the old world.

The principal injury corn is subject to arises from the
quantity of water it contains when harvested, such pro-
ducing chemical changes in its composition, reducing the
quality of the sample before it is fit for grinding. Ripe
corn, for instance, contains about 37 percent, of water,
and the shuck even more, while that fit for grinding
should only possess from 12 to 14, so that 25 per cent,
and upwards has to be evaporated. Now, this is not
always done successfully in the crib or before shelling
for market ; on the contrary, much damage is done
both before and after it passes from the hands of the
farmer.

In the first place, farmers are induced to sell, for the
sake of extra weight and measure, before the corn is fit
for shipping to this country. " When farmers sell corn
soon after it is ripe," says Dr. Lee, quoting from the
Patent-office report, " there is considerable gain in no*

keeping it long to dry and shrink in weight." So that
the practice is virtually approved of by the highest
authority ; consequently, whether it is shipped directly
or put in granary for subsequent export, damage to a less
or greater extent is sustained according to the per-centage
of water contained ; for in this state it soon becomes
musty, and not unfrequently so firefanged as to be
unfit for pigs. Things are, if possible, even worse when
the corn is ground, and the meal exported in too moist
a state.

Now the practical inference to be deduced from this
is, obviously, the short-sighted policy of exporting
water to this country (?J Our transatlantic readers
will not misunderstand this Yankee mode of stating the
question at issue, and the wholesome advice which it
contains ; for if they think that John Bull will part with
his sovereigns for what he has generally too much of
already, it is high time they took a more comprehensive
view of the real value of an American dollar.

At the present moment there is scarcely any topic
perhaps more interesting to American agriculture, and,
indeed, all our colonies, than the harvesting of cereals
in the highest condition, with the view of supplying the
increasing demands of the mother country, and, of the
different kinds of corn, maize is the most deserving of
special attention ; for from experiments made by us
lately, we have no hesitation in saying that if it were
imported here fresh, and free from injury, it would
soon become a favourite at the tables of more than our
toil-worn population.

In the second place, the topic is not less deserving of
notice by our colonies, on account of what they them-
selves consume and export in a properly dried state ;
for it takes no great amount of chemistry to perceive
that cobs thrown into cribs in too moist a state involves
a sacrifice of property not very easily estimated, even
for the feeding of live stock, to say nothing of human
food. In Canada and some of the northern states of the
Union, the climate may be against drying in the open
air ; but the southern states, and our colonies of the
opposite hemisphere, possess ample facilities for doing
so. And even the northern states and Canada ought to
do more than compete with the European shores of the
Black Sea. Moreover, with the reclaiming and cultiva-
tion of our colonies, their climate will very much
improve. In point of home consumption there is no
empire in the world to be compared with them; for from
the civil and religious liberties enjoyed, their domestic
comforts are without a parallel, every table overflowing,
so much so that the new world, as a whole, has prover-
bially been styled the " land of plenty" — " a world of
farmers grumbling for want of markets to consume its pro-
duce." And why? Simply because that produce, from
slovenly farming and the short-sighted policy already re-
ferred to, is unfit for the consumption of the mother
country I We are not insensible to the pioneering difficul-
ties experienced by farmers when newly settled ; but expe-
rience herself ought to teach even them that " a little fire
to warm them is better than a large one to burn them" —
that a good article will find a market, when a bad one
will not ; and that the difference of the value of food

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

391

adapted for man, and that only fit for pigs, is sucli as
scarcely to bear conaparison. In short, Jonathan can
never succeed in learning John Bull to eat either " sour
flour" or " musty meal;" whereas, on the contrary, he
will soon find a ready customer for " Johnny cakes,"
" crumpets," and " slap jacks," if he only attends to
quality.

In the third place, a supply of fresh Indian corn free
from damage, so as to dispel prejudices existing against
it, and create a regular consumption, is a subject as in-
teresting to the mother country herself, as it is to her
colonies and other exporting states ; for were our bread-
consuming population to use Indian meal as those of the
United States, and, indeed almost all nations now upon
the face of the earth do, scarcity, high prices, and priva-
tions consequent upon short harvests at home, would be
greatly ameliorated, if not averted. At the moment we
write, very strong efforts are being made to improve the
manufacture of barley, oats, Indian corn, and other
farinaceous substances, so as to make us less dependent
upon wheaten flour than we have been ; but as we our-
selves cannot grow Indian corn, our millers and mechani-
cians, however industrious and successful they may be in
this laudable enterprize, can never make fresh meal from
musty American corn that has undergone firefangiug or
fermentation in the crib, granary, or vessel, while under
transport. Our increasing consumption of foreign corn
demands thus much of our millers and others connected
directly or indirectly with the corn trade; for to be
entirely dependent upon one cereal (wheat) in a climate
so precarious, and that one neither the most healthy
nor nutritious, especially to hard-working people, as our
bread-consuming millions are, is anything but consistent
with the domestic economy of England. No doubt re-
striction, and the consumption of wheaten flour alone,
with a large amount of American breadstufFs sour and
musty, may suit speculation, European and trans-
atlantic ; but the practical lesson which such suggests
is that American farmers and the British public pay
attention to their respective interests themselves, study-
ing how closely they reciprocate with one another.
From the African shores of the Mediterranean, the
Cape of Good Hope, and our East Indian and
Australian territories, an ample supply can be
had to all our wants, were their agricultural resources
only developed ; and there cannot be a doubt but the ex-
pulsion of capital now engaged in the corn trade from
Turkey and the Russian shores of the Black Sea and
Baltic, with the obstacles thrown in the way of our own
corn trade generally by the war, coupled with the un-
settled state of the East, will induce our corn merchants
to extend the sphere of their labours. Under existing
circumstances and prospects we can hardly see the possi-
bility of avoiding changes of this kind, while we can see
every reasonable inducement to rejoice at their consum-
mation. But, although we may thus, and doubtless
will, establish machinery sufficiently powerful to render
us independent of America, it yet becomes no less the
interest of our transatlantic neighbours than ourselves to
weigh well the duties we owe each other at the present
moment, and not to put a selfish interpretation upon the

dispensation with which Providence has seen fit to
visit us.

In cookery, the extra quantity of fat or oil which
Indian-corn meal contains, amounting in some cases to
as much as nine, and even ten per cent., gives it a high
value, but renders it better adapted for puddings and
pancakes than bread ; and accordingly this is what ex-
perience verifies both in America and the continent of
Europe. We ourselves have gone to some expense in
the shape of experiments, and can add our testimony to
the same conclusion. At this rate, every hundred-weight
of meal would contain lOlbs. of fat ; equivalent to an
equal weight of butter, and probably more, if its chemi-
cal value was better known. Now, we are paying at pre-
sent Is. 6d. per lb. for butter, so that the value of the
fat per cwt. of meal amounts to 15s., or something more
than the price of the meal itself. Even at the price of
American butter, it will be worth three-fourths of its
value. In comparison with wheaten flour, this, bearing
in mind that it is otherwise richer in gluten, gives it a
very important advantage — one which cannot long be
lost sight of in our domestic economy, in these piping
times of progress.

When made into what is termed " fine Indian bread,"
from one-third to one-half of wheaten flour is added in
America, and in Spain equal quantities of wheat, rye,
and Indian- corn flour are used. " Indian wheaten
bread " (American) is composed of equal quantities of
wheaten flour and Indian-corn meal, while " common
Indian bread" is entirely composed of the latter; in
other respects, the process of baking is similar to the
wheaten loaf. Unleavened cakes or bread, however,
are probably more common than leaveaed ; and of these
there is an endless variety, every state and county almost
having its own favourite, arising from some often insig-
nificant diff'erence in the manipulation, such as greasing
the gridiron, or toasting before or over the fire. The pro-
cess is that of cakes of oatmeal, as in the north; often
with a degree of rudeness, or rather simplicity, remind-
ing us of practices chronicled in this country centuries
ago, such as spreading out the dough upon a board,
stone, or brick, and toasting it before the fire.

The more common plan, we t lieve, however, is to
bake the cakes in a frying-pan along with butter, or fat
of any kind, mutton suet excepted, when they assume an
intermediate form between cakes and puddings, and
are eaten hot. In short, they are Yorkshire puddings
of Indian meal without eggs ; and these, too, are fre-
quently added, with sometimes sugar or treacle, cara-
ways, nutmeg, ginger, &c., according to taste. The
variety is almost endless ; and we venture to affirm
that, if our labouring population had puddings of this
kind smoking hot before them at breakfast and supper,
made of sound Indian meal, they would soon prefer them
to the coarse bread and rancid butter they now use.

In plum puddings, all sorts of pies, dumplings, tarts,
&c., &c. — Indian-coi'n meal is used in the same manner
as wheaten flour.

Indian-meal porridge (the mush or hasty pudding of
America), eaten with milk, beer, butter, or treacle, is ano-
ther favourite dish. It is sometimes made with water, and

39Si

THE FARMER'S MAGAZIr^]

sometimes milk, in the same manner as oatmeal. It is
less heating than oatmeal porridge ; and, for bringing ;
up children, has many things to recommend it to the
serious consideration of the poor man. '■

So i/iuch for maize — the cheapest, most prolific, and <
nourishing of all the cereaiia ; which, although little
known to ancient Europe, is now fast establishing itself ,
in every province, and, indeed, among all the civilized i
nations of the world, as an invaluable article of food.

In cookery, the strength of habit is, no doubt, invete-
rately strong, even where education has removed from the :
mind many a prejudice, owing to taste and the digestive
powers of the stomach becoming vitiated by exclusive
usage to certain things ; but a little presence of mind, so
to speak, as to the seat of (he disease, will soon s-uggest
the proper remedy, so that a very short experiment will

soon reconcile both to what is best for them. As a diet
for children, along with milk or molasses, it has many
things to recommend it : and when we glance at the
magnitude of this juvenile class of our population ; the
painful degree of starvation so largely experienced by itj
the quantity of food which it ought to consume, were it
properly fed ; and the fact that vitiated habits are but
shallosv-rooted here, it will at once be perceived that
the importation of a sound article, with its proper
cookery and use, is a question second to none in our
domestic economy. We are not here saying one word
against the use of wheaten fiour ; quite the contrary :
but, unfortunately, a large portion of our population are
not in circumstances to get a sufficient supply of it ;
and therefore, to use strong language, ivkj/, in the name
of humanity, should our millions be starved thus?

ON THE BEATSON SYSTEM OF CULTIVATION

"Petty operations, incessantly continued, in time snrmiunt
the greatest ditficulties ; and mountains are levelied, and oceaas
bmmdfd, by tlie slender force of human beings." — Dk.
Johnson.

If there ever was a season adapted to Major-
General Beatsoa's system of cultivation, it must be
the present one. It principally consists in pulver-
izing the soil without the intervention of ploughs,
or, in fact, by the aid of scarifiers or grubbers to-
gether with the various harrowiugs, rollings, and the
like, necessary to bring it into a thoroughly pulver-
ized state, duly prepared to receive the seed. The
present is certainly an unexampled season for the
facilities it affords for thus pulverizing, cleansing,
and preparing the soil for the ensuing wheat crop ;
and if it can thus be done effectually, the saving of
labour will be very great. My object in this paper
is to call attention to this particular point in autumn
culture. Every good farmer has undoubtedly been
incessantly engaged during this beautiful weather in
cultivating and cleansing his land. The appliances
are so many and so good, that perfect tilths may
readily bo obtained. In my own occupation I have
broken up a considerable breadth of land with Ben-
tail's scarifier, and crossed it with Biddle's scarifier,
and in this way have obtained a deep and highly sa-
tisfactory preparation for the wheat seeding, at a mo-
derate cost and without the aid of a plough ; and as
ray land is subsoil-drained, I purpose after all requi-
site harrowings to drill-in the seed, and thus save
the expense of ploughing and other subsequent ma-
nagement. No one can be a greater advocate for
the due use of the plough than myself ; but with

favourable seasons like the present ones, the adoption
of the scarifying mode of breaking up land is prefer-
able. I do not advocate breaking up clover leys .or
seeds in this way ; for these a good ploughing is best
to .be followed in about 21 days by a powerful scari-
fier, to cross the furrows and tear the whole into
pieces. If the season continues dry, this with a few
harrowings will make an admirable seed-bed. For
bean and pea land the scarifier is the best implement:
it may easily be worked to the depth of ordinary
ploughing, and the whole of the dead haulm, rubbish,
&c., being on the surface, it can easily be collected
and then taken to the fold-yard to be converted into
manure, or if twitch to be burnt. In all cases where
the land is not subsoil-drained, it is necessary to
plough, in order to " lay up " the lands for surface
drainage ; but it is not requisite where good drainage
has been effected : the " laying up " the lauds is not
of great importance, it being borne in mind that sub-
soil drainage is by filtration, not furrows.

I beg to call attention to this mode of putting in
the wheat crop for this season, as in many cases it
may advantageously be practised ; but much caution
must be exercised before its adoption. If the land
cannot bear treading, it is best to lay up the land and
work the horses down the furrows ; if this dry sea-
son is succeeded by much rain before the sowing is
completed, it must be given up — however, as in all
such cases, the farmer's judgment must be his guide.
My object is to save expense in culture, if it can l)e
done without danger to the crop : I will only say, it is
by no means absolutely necessary to plough the land
in all cases.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

993

MICHAELMAS RENTS ON CORN AVERAGES

Sir, — The adoption of corn rents, based on the
average prices of wheat, or of wheat, barley and oats,
for the farmers' year ending on Michaelmas-day, having
been strongly advocated by many gentlemen, as forming
a more equitable bargain between the landlord and
tenant, I was induced to make a communication to you
in October, 1853 ; and, as a continuation, embracing
the year ending Michaelmas-day, 1854, 1 have prepared
the annexed statement. I also subjoin the weekly ave-
rages, upon which the quarterly and annual average is
founded, put into a shape mere convenient for reference
than the return published ia the London Gazette.

It would tend very much to promote the extension of
the system if a general plan of proceeding could be in-
troduced ; and, with a view to this_ object, it would be
gratifying to me to be furnished with information as to
the mode in which the adoption of corn rents has been
introduced and carried out in different parts of England,
particularly with reference to the basis prices of grain.

By way of example, we will suppose that a farm would
be worth ^300 a year rent, if the average prices were as
follows, viz. : —

Per Imperial Bushel. Per Imp. Quarter.
s. d. s. d.

Wheat 7 0^ o 56 2

Barley 3 Hi 31 8

Oats = 2 9 23 0

Now, at these prices, if we turn one-third of the rent into
each of the above kinds of grain, the corn rent will be
234." 66 bushels of wheat,
505 63 — barley,

72' 272 — oats,

and these qua ties, valued into money at the annual
average prices ascertained up to each Michaelmas-day,
will give the rent from year to year during the continu-
ance of the agreement.

I am, sir, your most obedient servant,
Charles M. Willich,

Actuary, University Life Office.
25, Sufolk-street, Pall-mall, Oct. 6.

For quarter ending
Christmas, 1853. . . .
Lady-day, 1854....
Midsummer, — . . . .
Michaelmas, — . . . .

For year ending
Michaelmas, 1854 . . ,

Wheat.
s. d.
69 10
79 6
78 4
63 10

73 1

Barlev.
s. d.
40 0
40 1
37 0
33 5

AVERAGE PRICE PER IMPERIAL QUARTER
IN ENGLAND AND WALES.

Oats.
s. d.
24 9
26 11

WEEKLY AVERAGE PRICE PER IMPERIAL
QUARTER (per London Gazetiej.

Wheat.

Barley.

Oats.

37 9

27 4

1853:
Oct. 14.

— 21.

— 23.
Nov. 4 .

— 11.

— 18.

— 25.
Dec. 2.

— 9.

— 16.

— 23.

— 30.
185i:

Jan. 6.

— 13-

— 20.

— 27.
Feb. 3.

— 10.

— 17.

— 24.
March 3 .

— 10.

— 17.

— 24.

— 31.
April 7 .

— 14.

— 21.

— 28.
May 5.

— 12.

— 19.

— 26.
June 2.

— 9.

— 16.

— 23.

— 30.
July 7.

— 14.

— 21.

— 28.
Aug. 4.

— 11.

— 18.
25.

Sept. 1.

— 8.

— 15.

— 22.

— 29.
Oct. 6.

u.ouo . .

4.779 ..

11.534 ..

1.719 ..

9.247 ..

7.718 ..

7.154 ..

0.479 ..

7.950 ..

11.713 ..

9.827 ..

0.633 ..

0.202 ..

2.273 ..

78'

10.676 ..

4.481 ..

3.040 ..

8.527 ..

4.010 ..

1.990 ..

5.659 ..

3.674 ..

6.173 ..

2.989 ..

4.079 ..

0.181 ..

5. 758 ..

3.350 ..

11.991 ..

5.596 ..

9.947 ..

9.829 ..

2.646 ..

9.683 ..

11.885 ..

9.390 ..

3.049 ..

11.508 ..

8.708 ..

6.946 ..

6.995 ..

10.339 ..

8.211 ..

8.418 ..

3.219 ..

0.742 ..

7.048 ..

3.860 ..

4.676 ..

5.288 ..

2.611 ..

9.154 ..

7.894

1.871

7.003

9.486

3.011

2.986

3.194

9.762

9.977

9.201

9.580

37 11.086

39 4.387

41 3,803

42 0.G27
42 10.724

0.819
8.961
3.205
11.765
4,474

37 10.102

38 7.136
38 9.905

6.802
8.588
2.854
10.791
5.0l)S
3.533
0.365
1.042
2.454
1.221
9.510
1.692
3.318
1.563
2.865
6.674

36 10.649

37 1.564
3.790
9.941
8.239
6.821
5.459
5.789
9.243
2.912
2.148
2.859

38
37
36
36
37
37
37
37
37
37
36
37
37
37
37
36

36
35
34
34
32
32
30
29
29

9.914
10.7-18

2.4G5
8.810
5.833
5.340
0,870
0.546
3.242
4.600

24 11.752

25 0.159

6.543
5.183
4.442
2.759
1.650
0.479
4.916
5.631
1.991
0.199
2.089
7,404
5.600
26 10.847

26 11.914

27 6.519
5.148
9.627
8.671
5.935
4.887

11.404

29 10.301

30 8.757
5.140
6.391
7.430
2.827
8.706
7.462

29 10.600
29 11.009
11.140
9.098
7.542
8.970
6.822
11.975
7.502
3.664

29
30
30
30
29
30

394

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

DRAINING BY STEAM.

"Two thousand" for the first implement the
agriculturist requires to commence farming with, is
rather a startling introduction ; yet such is the mechani-
cal genius of the times, that the proposition has become
a leading one, for farmers can no longer farm success-
fully without more efficient drainage, generally speak-
ing, than they now have. While the discovery of gold
in our colonies, the opening up of their internal re-
sources by railroads, the consequent demand for labour
on the mother country, the unshackling of colonial
legislatures, and the impetus which the joint influence
of such is giving to emigration, is rendering drainage
by machinery a sine qua non. But effective machinery
cannot be started under this sum, according to the
catalogue of implements of the Royal Agricultural So-
ciety of England at Lincoln (stand 71, article 19,
" Fowler's patent steam draining plough") ; hence the
upshot.

Steam drainage at present has peculiar claims upon
the agricultural public ; and if the necessary provision
is not made for embracing the advantages which it holds
out. it may be difficult to estimate just now the loss
which, experience will unquestionably very soon unfold,
has irrecoverably been sustained. The legislature may
refuse an adjustment of the poor-law, landlord-and-
tenant-right questions, to meet the progress of applied
science in connexion with the investment of labour and
capital in land, and even toss to the winds drainage-
bills themselves ; but the owners and occupiers of land,
to whom we now humbly address ourselves, are ob-
viously called upon, by the best interests of their coun-
try, to weigh well the events which an Omnipotent and
Over-ruling Arm has placed in the scales before them ;
for undoubtedly they never saw, on the one hand, our
colonial governments' resources and industry in their
present prosperous state, and, on the other, the land
and naval forces of France and England liberating the
shores of the Black Sea and Baltic from the tyrannical
domination of Russia. J^ever in the history of the
world did events of such magnitude "loom in the dis-
tance" as those which now rise before the British
farmer ; and, therefore, every obstacle ought to be
removed which may stand in his way of bringing the
most effective machinery of the age to his assistance, so
as to enable him successfully to enter into competition
with his colonial and foreign rivals, which otherwise he
cannot do — and that machinery obviously involves drain-
age by steam.

It were thus difficult to say whether the political or
agricultural view of our subject is of the greatest im-
portance, for a very superficial glance at our colonial
empire cannot fail to satisfy the most casual observer
that the influence of self-government, with an over-
flowing abundance of the precious metals, added to its
present prosperous state, must, according to any rational
calculation of things, be eventually productive of no

ordinary results. And, for similar reasons, the political
freedom of the provinces of the Black Sea and Baltic
must also greatly increase their capabilities of exporting
agricultural produce to England ; while the energies of
English agriculture are so cramped by statutes, more
than a century out of date, as almost to prevent her
from calling to her assistance expensive machinery,
however effective and even economical as to ultimate
results ; for, until she acquires liberty of action, she
can only conveniently go to work on the old profitless
" hand to mouth" system, while the prosperity of our
colonies and emigration of our labouring population are
even beginning to deprive her of the means of doing so
advantageously.

And this is not all : for, were steam to become the
auxiliary of colonial and foreign agriculture before it
becomes so of that of the mother country (and there is
every probability of its doing so in the new world, at
least), consequential circumstances may give rise to the
emigration of landlords' and tenants' capital, and even
capital generally (for our antiquated statutes have no
limiting restrictions over it prior to its investment in
the English soil), a result which would be productive
of greater calamities than even the emigration of la-
bourers j for then steam itself could not be brought to
bear upon the drainage and cultivation of the British
soil, until its circumstances were brought to a uniform
level with those of our colonies — circumstances which
ought to convince every one of the true position and
value of his property, present and prospective, in con-
nexion with land.

No doubt the soundness of this latter conclusion may
be queried, from the fact of its being partly pros-
pective ; but it can only be so by those who practically
have adopted the well-known maxim of " a little more
sleep," " or those who never lock the door until the
steed is stolen ;" for the progress of facts at the present
moment are such as entirely to exclude any other source
of objection. It is notorious, for example, that the
prices of land in the mother country and her colonies
are annually approaching nearer and nearer to a uniform
level ; that with the progress of railroads, assistance of
more effective machinery, and the growth of manu-
facturing and commercial towns, the pioneering hard-
ships of the settler are fast disappearing, and that the
domestic circumstances of colonial farmers are beginning
to exceed in comfort and independence those of the
farmers of the mother country, even including the
younger members of landlord's families. In other
words, the opulence of the former is annually in-
creasing, while that of the latter is decreasing, owing to
the greater amount of capital requiring to be invested,
with no increasing security for it. Nay, such is the
fact, that instead of security having increased with an
increasing investment, it has taken the inverse direc-
tion ! Hence the consequences which the British

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

S95

farmer now experiences of either being at the mercy of
his landlord, or else the Bankrupt Act. It is all very
well to tell us his landlord will not take the advantage
of him I But is this the position in which he should
be ? or that which the more independent colonial farmer
enjoys? Should not the one have equal security with
the other, benefiting by the whole profits arising from
the investment of his own capital ? Now, such being
the facts of the case at the present moment, who can
look abroad upon the face of the world, now rent by
political convulsions from pole to pole by the pent-up
industry of nations struggling for civil and religious
freedom, and witness the manner in which England is
involved, and not perceive that " coming events are
beginning to cast their shadows before them" ? Who,
for instance, can look on China, and not perceive that
the reformation taking place there will greatly con-
tribute to the prosperity of our Australian Colonies,
thus stimulating the great work of emigration to that
quarter ? on the slow, but sure, progress of things,
again, in our East Indian empire, and the pioneering
influence which it is beginning to have upon the nations
immediately surrounding it, at the present moment on
the eve of rebellion, as if the Mohammedan and pagan
eras were about to expire ? Next we have France and
England commencing in earnest, as it were, the civiliza-
tion even of Africa herself, one beginning at each end;
then we have Spain, Cuba, and almost all the govern-
ments of the new world, including the Russian and
British territories of North America, in political com-
motion ; and, lastly, our commercial prospects in the
Baltic and Black Sea already noticed — who, we ask, can
look on these things, and the progress of science in-
volved, and yet conclude that English acres are to con-
tinue to be improved by Acts of Parliament ? The
idea is preposterous in the extreme; for steam, and
steam alone, is the auxiliary whose assistance the
landed interest can safely rely tapon under existing
circumstances; one which we have no doubt will soon
be brought to bear upon the stubborn soil of England
in the most effectual manner.

Ploughing by steam is still a problematical question ;
but the problem of draining has been fairly solved by
Mr. Fowler, and therefore every means in the power
of a great nation should be used in reducing it to gene-
ral practice. The area of land suffering for the want of
drainage is far larger than generally imagined, and
the national loss proportionally great ; so that our
proposition does not stand in need of any other argu-
ment in support of its reduction to practice. England
loses more annually by badly- drained acres, for in-
stance, than what she would do were the Autocrat of
all the Russias to reduce the Turkish empire to a
Muscovite province. To suppose that she would strain
every nerve she has in equipping fleets and armies such
as the world never saw, and sacrifice her best blood for
what at the best is mere commercial speculation, as she
is now doing in the Crimea, and yet by some un-
accountable supineness at home neglect her agricultural
resources of far more importance to her both in a com-
mercial and political sense, is an hypothesis entirely at

variance with the genius of the times. No doubt, com-
mercial and manufacturing interests are attractive, and
may, as they have hitherto done, continue to engross
too much of the attention of those whose time and
capital should be wholly absorbed in the permanent
improvement of the soil. But, however strong com-
mercial predilections may still be in the English mind,
the progress of agricultural science has been such of late
as to place the circumstances of the soil in a more
favourable position when prospectively viewed ; so that
there is every reason to believe that steam drainage
will at no distant date meet with the hearty reception
of every agriculturist in the kingdom, and be generally
and efficiently carried out.

The successful issue of the practice, like that of all
others in connection with agriculture, and indeed every
act, depends upon the profits arising from it ; and here
the patentee will have more difficulty in procuring una-
nimity in his favour than may well be imagined ; for
strange as it may appear, yet such is the fact, that the
general question. Will drainage pay ? is one which is
far from being solved to the satisfaction of e-very mind ;
for we have even met with very intelligent, practical
men, who believe it does harm rather than good ; basing
their conclusions on the result of experience. Indeed,
we ourselves could point out numbers of fields where
the subsequent crops were inferior to those which pre-
ceded the work . But in such cases the cause was manifest,
parties having hastily concluded, under some " penny-
wise and pound-foolish" estimate, that if drains were
put in according to some arbitrary rule, such as 4 feet
deep and 24 feet apart, the work would be finished ;
whereas the contrary was the case ; for in nine cases
out of ten the drains were not only too far apart, but
the subsequent management was also imperfect. The
schoolmaster may write a copy-book, and his pupils
may transcribe it successfully, but the work of drainage
cannot profitably be carried out in accordance with
such a rule ; for fields are seldom of uniform quality,
and different qualities require specific rules both in
the drainage and after treatment ; efficient drainage
in each case being followed by efiicient cultivation,
in character, according to the geological circumstances
of the soil, ivithout regard to expense ; for to drain
a field is to produce a definite result apart from
any other consideration. The increase of produce arising
from drainage is not dependent upon the amount of
capital expended in the execution of the work, but upon
certain physical changes which have been effected in the
soil ; consequently the first great aim of the drainer
should be the production of those changes, so as
to obtain the end sought, whatever may be the cost ;
reducing it afterwards to the lowest possible level.
When an implement maker, for example, makes a new
machine capable of performing a given result, either to
order or on speculation, he makes his calculations ac-
cording to the means required to perforin this result,
and not according to the weight of his own pocket ;
and, in estimating these means, experiment alone must
guide him. This latter is a cardinal point ; and there-
fore we repeat that experiment alone must determine

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

the meaus required to produce a given effect in the
manufacture of any new machine. And so should it
also be in draining. More experimenting and less
theorizing is required to secure unanimity in the execu-
tion of this, the first and greatest of all agricultural im-
provements. After once the greatest increase of pro-
duce has been obtained from a given soil, and the cost
of obtaining the same reduced to the lowest level, then
we shall be in a position to say whether the profits will
justify farther investment. If an affirmative answer is
returned, no time should be lost in prosecuting the
work ; but, if the contrary, then we must bring more
efFeclive machinery into the field, capable of performing
the work at less expense ; but assuredly on no account
reduce the cost by placing the drains farther between
each other, of less depth, or by decreasing the effect of
subsequent culture, for this would be reducing the pro-
duce at a greater rate than the expenses.

Steam will afford more facilities for experimenting as
to results from a less distance between drains, as pro-
posed above, than can now be done under manual
labour, because the increase of expense will not be in
proportion to the number and length of drains, for the
same engineering staff' will then be able to superintend
two or more engines and ploughs, if wrought close to
each other, while there will be less shifting from field
to field in putting in a given number of pipes. There

are, no doubt, many practical objections to one stafifof
hands attending to several engines anel ploughs, but
these must be overcome ; for to pay high wages daily
for walking at the slow pace of a draining plough, is at
variance with economical draining.

We have thus arrived at the conclusion of an increase
of machinery to execute the work at the lowest expense,
so that the mode of remunerating the patentee for his
invention becomes a question of primary importance ;
for to charge it upon the machine in the outset is
obviously calculated to exclude its operation. And the
monopoly of the work of drainage, on the other hand,
by the patentee himself, must ever be surrounded with
many serious objections, and therefore equally against
his and the public interest. The more commendable
plan appears to be a small royalty per acre on such
heavy machinery as this, and the machinery itself at a
fair manufacturing price, so as to encourage the estab-
lishment of draining companies in the different pro-
vinces of the kingdom, and honourable competition for
the best and cheapest work. At Lincoln, for instance,
we might have had half a dozen companies, at least,
competing, who would make the best and cheapest
work ; but, whatever plan is adopted, the work is at-
tended with heavy investments, which call for the re-
moval of all statutory obstacles out of the way, and the
hearty co=operation of landlords and tenants at present.

THE AGRICULTURAL STATISTICS OF SCOTLAND

The important inquiry into the agricultural statistics of
Scotland, which Government has intrusted to the Highland
Socif^ty, ia, we are glad to learu, making satisfactory progress.
As our readers are aware, the inquiry of last year extended to
only three counties — Haddington, Eoxbuigh, and Sutherland ;
this year it will embrace the whole of Scotland. The machinery
by which the necessary information is being collected is much
the same as that adopted iu the case of these three counties,
with a few slight alterations, which the experience of last year
sug^eated.

The limited inquiry of 1853 was farther advanced than the
present one at this period of the year ; but this has arisen
not so much, if at all, from the greater magnitude of the work
to be performed and the results to be attained on this occa-
sion, as from the late period at which the society received the
authority of Government to make a commencement. No
step, even of a preliminary nature, conld be taken till this
authority was given, and nothing could, therefore, be done till
the month of June. In succeeding years — for it is to be inferred
that the inquiry will be a.n annual one — the same delay v/ill
not take place, and the machinery, which had this year to be
organized, will not have to be called into existence.

This machinery, we may state, consists of enumerators and
committees for eaclj parish or district of the country, every
enumerator and every member of the committee being a
farmer. The duties of enumerator are much less onerous than
thsy were last year. He had then to serve and collect the
schedules, and to examine and return them to Mr. Hall
Maxwell ; but this was not only a laborious but an invidious
task, for many farmers objected to pass the details of their

crop and stock under the review of a neighbour. To obviate
this difficulty, the schedules are now issued by and returnable
directly to Mr. Maxwell. The services of enumerators in
regard to schedules will ouly be required where occupiers have
failed to make returus in the ordinary manner; after a certain
date the enumerators will be asked to procure the returus in
the mode which they may think best. They will also, along
with the committee, prepare an estimate of the crops ; and
this is the most important part of their duty. These esti-
mates will not be given in till the end of October or beginning
of November, and they will form as close an approximation aa
possible to the average acreable yield of each crop grown in
the district.

One of the first things to be undertaken in connection with
the inquiry was evidently the preparation of lists of the occu-
piers of land to whom schedules were to be sent. It was
originally proposed to ask the inspectors of the poor for the
different parishes to furnish these. Ultimately, however, it was
resolved to request the sanctiou of the Board of Inland Revenue
to npply to the Property-tax Assessors for copies of their lists.
Tl.ia sanction was at once given ; circulars were issued to the
assessors, and in cases where the assessors refused to furnish
the required information application was made to the parochial
inspectors. For future inquiries the lists will, of course, require
only a revision. While these lists were being made up, Mr.
Maxwell visited most of the principal county towns, and held
public meetings, which were iniluentially attended, and at
which he explained the nature and objects of the inquiry. We
believe it was Mr. Maxwell's intention to extend his visits to
the northern counties and to Orkney, but the arrangements

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

397

necessary in contemplation of the Berwick Show made it im-
possible for him to fulfil this iuteution. The result of all the
meetings which he held was highly satisfactory.

The next step was to arrange suitable districts. This hav-
ing been done, the services of upwards of a hundred well quali-
fied enumerators were obtained, as well as the assistance of
nearly 900 influential farmers, to act as members of committee
in their respective parishes.

The lidts of occupants having been prepared, the schedules
to be filled up with the requisite information were issued. The
schedule consists of two sections — one for crop, the other fi>r
stock. Uiider the first the farmer is asked to state as nearly
as he can the acreage of his farm, and how that acreage is
cropped — how many acres he has of wheat, barley, oats,
turnips, potatoes, &c. — how many of grass under rotation, and
of permanent pasture. In the second, the number of his horses,
cows, &c., is to be stated.

The issue of these schedules is now completed, except in
Bute and Arran, the Upper Ward of Lanarkshire, the parish of
Kincardine (Ross-shire), and the parish of Ellon, for which no
lists have yet been received from the assessors. They have
been forwarded to about 47,000 occupiers of land ; this must
not, however, be regarded as the number of farms in the
country, because it sometimes happens that one man has a
dozen farms, and in one instance twenty-eight farms were in-
cluded in one schedule. A large proportion of these schedules
have now been returced, and they are in course of being ar-
ranged and tabulated.

List year these schedules were sent to all persons having
farms above two acres in extent. This year it was resolved to
limit the issue in the Lowlands to parties paying not less than
£10 of rent, and in the Highlands to persons paying £20 and
upwards. But as it is desirable that information should be ob-
tained regarding the extent and produce of land rented below
these rates, the enumerators have been furnished with forms of
return exhibiting the number of occupiers, the gross acreage
so occupied in their respective districts, the average rotation of
cropping observed, and the total estimated amount of stock
possessed by such tenant.

As last year, each enumerator will, with the assistance of the
committee of his dietrict, prepare an estimate of the average
produce of the various crops grown in his district ; and Mr.
Maxwell has requested that, in addition to the estimates of this
year's crop, committees shall report what, in their opinion, has
been the average yield of the different crops over an ordinary
period — say of five years — in order that a comparison might at
once be made with the returns for the present year, showing
whether they are in excess or deficiency of an ordinary average.
Without such a standard, Mr. Maxwell observes in his circular
to the enumerators, this information could not he acquired
from the annnal returns for a series of years.

The magidtude of the present undertaking may be judged of
from the fact that since the month of May the postage amounts
to no less a sum than £450. Although the results may not be
obtained so early as those of the three counties taken last year
were, we h;ive no doubt that in the hands of the Highland So-
ciety and tiieir indefatigable secretary, Mr. Hall Maxwell, the
inqvdry will be concluded so satisfactorily in e^ery way as to
justify the confidence reposed in them by Government. —
Scotsman.

We append a list of the enumerators : —

Aberdeen. — R. Copeland, Haddo House, Methlic ; Alex-
ander Duthie, Aberdeen ; John Terguson, Coynacb, Ellon ;
William Murdoch, Huntly ; Robert Williamson, Bendanch,
Blackburn, Aberdeen,

Argyle. — Donald Campbell, Tyree ; Duncan !^M' Arthur,
Pennyfair, Oban; James Archd. M'Diarmid, Kilfinichaii,
Mull ; Archd. M'Farlane, Clachau, Cairndow ; Neil M'Lean,
Coll; Neil Macleod, Feolin, Jura; Archibald Macdonald,
Ardnawe, Bowmore ; N. M'Kechnie, Inverary ; Peter Watson,
Campbeltown ; John A. Sellar, Ardtornish, Morven.

Aye.— David Cuninghame, Chappleton, Ardrossan ; James
Drenuan, Holehouse, Dairy mple; John Guthrie, Holms, Kil-
marnock; Alexander Ralston, Lagg, Dunure; Thomas Reid,
Moukton Mill, Monkton,

Banff. — James Black, Knock, Keith; George William-
son, Auldtown, Turriff.

Berwick. — Robert Lojan, Woodend, Dunse; John Wil-
son, Edington Mains, Chirnside.

Bute anu Akr.an. — Samuel Girdsvood, Little Kilmory,
Rothesay; James Allan, Clanchan, Arran.

Caithness. — Alex. Henderson, yr., of Stempster, Thurso,
An enumerator for the Wick district is in course of arrange-
ment.

Clackmannan. — Thomas Ritchie, Bowhouse, Alloa.

Dumbarton. — Lome Campbell, Roseneath.

Dumfries. — Bradshaw Barker, Wyseby Hill, Ecclefechan;
James Church, juu.. Tower of Sark, Ce.noubie; Robert Elliot,
Hardgrave, Lockerbie ; James Grierson, Morton Mains, Thorn-
hill; James W. Paterson, Peasmont, Dumfries.

Edinburgh. — John Einnie, Swanston, Burghmuirhead ;
Peter M'Lagan, yr., of Pumpherston, Mid-Calder ; James
M'Leaa, Braidwood, Penicuik.

Elgin. — James Geddes, Orbliston, Fochabers.

Fife. — James Balfour, Milton, Leuchars ; Robert E.
Beveridge, XJrquhart, Dunfermline ; William Dingwall,
Ramornie, Kettle ; James B. Fernie, of Kilaiux, Kennoway.

Forfar. — John Alexander, Mains of Glammis, Glammis ;
Robert Hector, Kintrochat, Brechin.

Haddington. — Matthew Buist, Tyningbame, Preston-
kirk; Henry M. Davidson, Haddington; George Harvej',
Haddington ; George Hope, Fentonbarns, Drem ; P. H.
Hume, Lawfield, Cockburnspath; David Wright, Southfic-ld,
Gladsmuir,

Inverness. — Robt. Ballingall, Portree House, Portree ;
Tnomas Macdonald, Fort-William ; Alex. Macdonald, Bal-
ranald. North Uist ; Dr. M'Gillivray, Eoligary, Barra, Loch-
maddy; Dr. Maclean, Dremisdale, South Uist; James Mac-
pbcrson, Biallid, Kingussie ; Donald M'Rue, Luskintyre,
Harris. Enumerators for the other three districts are in
course of arrangement.

Kincardine. — James Farquharson, Anchinblae.

Kinross. — Andrew Douie, Biair-Adaai.

Kirkcudbright. — James Barbour, of Bogue, Dairy ;
Thomas Laurie, Terreglestovvu, Duaafries; Walter M'Cnlioch,
of Kirkclaugh, Gatehouse; Robert M'Kuight, of Barlochan,
Castle Douglas.

Lanark. — James Brown, Lib'oerton Mains, Carawath ;
William Forrest, of Treeabanks, Allanton, Hamilton.

Linlithgow. — Robert John Thomson, Hangingside,
Linlithgow.

Nairn. — James Mitchell, Mills of Nairn, Nairn.

Orkney and Zetl.\nd. — In course of arrangement.

Peebles. — James Murray, Drochill Castle, Noblehouse.

Perth. — Alexander Conacher, Alton, Pit'ochtie ; Robert
Geekii?, Rosemount, Blairgowrie; Thomas W. I.orimer,
Belhie, Auchterarder ; John Matthew, Colin, Perth; Fletcher
Norton Menzies, Tirinie, Aberfeldy ; Robert Patterson,
Offers, Stirling; Thomas Ross, Bachilton, Perth; Thomas
Wyllie, of Airliewight Bankfoot, Perth ; James Yonng,
Cairneymill, Perth,

398

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

Renfrew.— John Colquhoun, Corkerhill, Pollockshaws ;
James Foster King, West Longhaugh, Bishopton; Arthur
Mather, Nether Place, Newton; Alexander Wilson, Fore-
house, Kilbarchan.

Ross AND Cromarty. — David Logan, Auchtertyre,
Lochalsh ; Wm. Murray, Kilcoy, Inverness ; Murdo
M'Aulay, Lynshader, Stornoway ; A. K. Mackinnon, Corry,
Broadford; Charles Robertson, Auchtercairn, Gairloch,
Poolewe ; Crawford Ross, CadboU, Fearn, Tain. An enume-
rator for another district is in course of being appointed.

Roxburgh. — Adam Brack Boyd, of Cherrytrees, Kelso ;
John Dugeon, Spylaw, Kelso ; George W. Hay, of Wbiterigg,

Melrose ; John Jardine, Arkleton, Langholm ; Daniel Mather,
Hallrule, Bonchester Bridge ; John Ord, of Muirhouselaw,
Nisbet, Kelao , James Robertson, Ladyrig, Kelso.

Selkirk. — John Anderson, Lewinshope, Selkirk.

Stirling. — William Forrester, Stewarthall, Stirling;
Thomas Graham, yr., of Balfuuning, Killearn.

Sutherland. — Alex. Clarke, EriboU, Tongue; Chas.
Hood, Inverbrora, Golspie ; Evander M'lver, Scourie ; Robert
B. Sangster, Golspie.

Wigtown.— James Caird, Baldown, Wigtown ; John
Crawford, Glenhead, Stranraer.

AN INTERESTING VISIT TO A GUANO ISLAND

Amongst all the new-fangled manures introduced by experi-
mentalizing agriculturists, during the last twenty years, not
one has been so rapidly and universally adopted as guano. Its
astonishing fertilizing qualities and easy mode of application
have rendered it a general favourite with the farmers, though
the immense distance of the places from which it is chiefly
obtained, and its consequent high price, must limit its use,
even if the supplies were inexhaustible.

Theisland of Ichaboe, on the west coast of Africa, fromwhence
guano was first obtained in large quantities, is perhaps the
most remarkable instance of a desolate rock becoming suddenly
the port of destination for hundreds of large ships, and the
source of immense wealth to numerous individuals. But
Ichaboe was soon exhausted, and the dusty treasure that had
for many centuries been accumulating on its rocky bosom was
literally swept away. The once busy island has now returner'
to its f jrmer loneliness, and the fleet of ships that gathered
round it seek, on still more distant coasts, the fertilizing
powder that shall fatten the impoverished fields of Old World
countries.

More than half the guano imported during the last ten
years has been obtained from a small group of islands called
the Chincas, that lie off' the port of Pisco, on the Peruvian
coast. Of these islands, the largest, Sangallan, has very little
guano upon it, the principal deposits being found on three
smaller ones, the most northern of the group. These are dis-
tinguished as the north, middle, and south islands. The
north island has been constantly worked ever since the intro-
duction of guano. The middle one has also been occasionally
invaded ; but the south island, on which we believe the accu-
mulation to be greatest, remains untouched.

Every ship bound to the Chincas is compelled to anchor at
Pisco, in order to pass the necessary cu»tom-house formalities,
before proceeding to her loading-ground. A couple of hours
are then sufficient to carry her across the few miles of water
that intervene, and she soon drops her anchor amongst the
numerous fleet that is ever laying off the island, waiting their
turn to load. The odorous scent of the guano is distinctly per-
ceptible at several miles distance, and is far from unpleasant
when thus mingled with the pure sea air.

The first duty of the crew after the ship's arrival is to dis-
charge the extra ballast, and, as the captains have no dread
of port-officers or harbour-masters, the sand or stone is quietly
tossed over the side, until there is barely sufficient left in the
hold to keep the vessel on an even keel. In the meantime
the long-boat is hoisted out of her berth amidships, and a part
of her crew are busily employed in bringing off boat-loads of
guano from the island, to replace the discharged ballast.

The peculiar odour pervades the whole ship ; the carefully
tarred rigging becomes a dirty brown, while the snow-white
decks and closely furled sails assume the same dark hues.

On the side next the mainland the islands rise precipitately
from the sea to a considerable height, presenting only a bare
dark wall of rock. From the upper edge of the precipice the
huge mound of guano slopes rapidly upwards for a short dis-
tance, and then spreads into a level surface that gradually
descends on every other side to within a few yards of the water.
Here and there huge craggy points thrust their white heads
through the brown crust of guano, which has completely filled
up the deep hollows that have originally existed in the island,
and would soon, had it not been disturbed, have covered even
the crests of what were once tall pinnacles. The only safe
landing place is on a narrow strip of beach, the remainder of
the island being surrounded by low rock and small detached
reefs ; but the irregular formation has greatly facilitated the
loading of ships, enabling the crews to accomplish that in a few
days which, under other circumstances, must have cost them
studious weeks of labour. Close to the face of the rock the
water is deep enough to float the largest merchantman ; and
the steady constancy of the trade-wind, which rarely increases
beyond a pleasant breeze, enables the ship to lie in perfect
safety in close contact with her two most dangerous enemies,
a rocky island, and a dead lee shore.

Having taken aboard by her boats sufficient guano to ballast
her, the ship is hauled in close to the steep reef, to which she
is securely bound with warps and chains, two anchors being
dropped to seaward, to enable her to haul off again when
loaded.

Down to the very edge of the precipice, on its summit,
comes the point of a triangular enclosure, open at its base, and
made of strong stakes driven into the solid guano, and closely
knit together with iron chains. At the point resting upon the
edge of the cliff' there is a small opening, to which there is
firmly attached a wide canvass pipe, which hangs down the
face of the precipice, and passes into the hold of the vessel
beneath. The enclosure, which will contain several hundred
tons, is filled with guano by the Indian labourers, and a small
line that encloses the mouth of the pipe being slacked, the
whole mass is poured into the ship at a rate which very soon
completes her cargo. From diff'erent parts of the pipe bow-
lines lead to the mast-heads of the vessel, and from thence on
deck, where they are tended by the crew, who alternately haul
upon and slack them, so as to keep the long pipe in motion,
and prevent its choking. But, however well they may succeed
in that eff'ort, the men have considerable difficulty in avoiding
some such catastrophe in their own persons ; for the guano,

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

399

after falling from so great an elevation, rises through the
hatchways in one immense cloud, and completely envelopes
the ship, and renders the inhaling of anything else but dust
almost a matter of impossibility. The men wear patent respi-
rators, in the shape of bunches of tarry oakum, tied across
their mouths and nostrils ; but the guano mocks at such weak
defences, and a brisk continued fusilade of sneezes celebrates
the opening of the pipe, and accompanies, in repeated volleys
and unwilling tears, the unremitting shower of pungent dust.
In the meantime a gang of Indians are at work in the hold,
trimming and levelling the guano as it pours from above. How
they contrive to exist at all in such an atmosphere is a matter
of astonishment ; but even they are unable to remain below
longer than twenty minutes at any one time. They are then
relieved by another party, and return on deck perfectly naked,
streaming with perspiration, and with their rown skins
thickly coated with guano. The two parties thus alternately
relieving each other, a ship of seven or eight hundred tons is
loaded in two or three days — the Indians working during the
night, and filling up the enclosure, ready for shipment the
following day. A smaller enclosure and pipe supply the boats
of the vessel anchored off the island

The guano is dug out with pick and shovel down to the
level of the rock ; and on the North island the cutting thus
formed is in some places from 60 to 80 feet in depth, in others
it is only a few inches ; but these shallow spots are compara-
tively rare, and usually border on some deep valley, firmly
packed with the prevailing substance. From the pressure of
the superincumbent mass, the lower strata have become al-
most as hard and compact as the rock itself, and the colour
deepens from a light brown, or sometimes white, at the surface,
to nearly black at the bottom of the cutting.

The guano of the Chinca Islands is said to surpass all other
deposits in its strength and fertilizing qualities, and this is
chiefly attributed to the fact that rain never falls on the
islands. Owing to this extreme aridity of the climate, the
saline particles of the manure are never held in solution, and
are therefore less liable to be lost by evaporation than where
the surface of the mass is frequently washed by heavy rains.
Large lumps of very strong and pure ammonia are, in fact,
frequently turned up by the diggers. The thick fogs that at
certain seasons are of nightly occurrence on the coast, convert
the outer layer into a greasy paste, which is immediately
baked by the sun into a hard crust, that prevents even the
fogs from penetrating into the interior. This crust is com-
pletely undermined by the birds that still frequent the island
in vast numbers, though they are said to bear no comparison
to the myriads that formerly held sole and undisturbed pos-
session of them. These are misos, garnets, penguins, pelicans,
divers, sheer-beaks, and many other sorts of sea-fowl, but the
most common is the guano bird, a very handsome creature,
beautifully variegated, and decorated with two pendant
ear-drops. Naturalists, delighting in hard words, call
him, I believe, sulieta varierjala. These web-footed
colonists form regular towns beneath the crust of the
guano, and various settlements, communicating with
each other by galleries, running in all directions,
80 that it is deemed almost impossible to set foot upon the
untouched surface of the island without sinking to the knee in
some feathered lady's nursery, and either smashing her eggs
or mutilating her half-fledged progeny. The egg-shells, and
the remains of fish brought to feed the young birds, or to be
devoured at leisure by the old ones, must form a considerable
item in the deposits.

Thickly tenanted as are the islands and the air above, the
watera beneath are no leas full of life. Shoals of amall fish are

continually passing tlirou gh the channels. Whales are fre.
quently seen rolling their huge bodies in the ofBng ; and the
numerous caves that perforate the islands on every side are
inhabited by colonies of seals and sea-lions, that wage an un-
ceasing predatory war upon the sparkling shoals that pass, un-
conscious of all danger, off their gloomy surf-bound territories.

The islands themselves are perfectly barren. Not a blade
of grass, nor even a particle of moss, exists upon them. They
present only one brown arid expanse, incapable of furnishing
food for the tiniest nibbler that ever gnawed a grain of corn ;
and yet they possess sufficient fertilizing power to transform a
barren desert into a fruitful garden, and they annually furnish
food in other lands for thousands of hungry mortals who never
even heard of their existence. They are also completely des-
titute of water — the Indians, who live upon them, being sup-
plied with this necessary of life by the shipping, in turns .
Every aiticle of food is brought from Pisco, to which pott
the guano-diggers occasionally resort to spend in extravagance
and dissipation their hard-earned wages. The Commaudant
resides on the north island, in a miserable cottage; four poles
stuck in the guano, with grass mats or a few reeds stretched
between them, and covered in with a flat roof of the same
material, form specimens of a high order of Chinca architec-
ture. Furniture is, of course, unknown, and clothes are as
nearly so as possible ; but the high wages given to the la-
bourers appear to balance the desagremens of their position,
for several Englishmen are amongst their number. Some of
these are employed in mooring the ships alongside of the rock.

Guano has been used for agricultural purposes in Peru ever
since the invasion of the Spaniards, and there are good grounds
for believing that its use was known to the Indians long an-
terior to that period. It is now chiefly applied there in the
cultivation of maize and potatoes, and large quantities of it
are consumed in the haciendas that skirt the banks of the
rivers which flow from the mountains through the desert,
raising in their passage through the arid sand-ocean long
green islands of extraordinary fertility. The mode of applying
the manure differs considerably from that adopted with us.
It is never used with the seed ; but when the plants are a
few inches above the surface, a long shallow trench is made
close to the roots, and in this a small quantity of guano is
placed, the white being always preferred, the trench being
laid completely under water by dams and sluices erected for
the purpose, or, where no such system of irrigation exists,
other means are adopted for thoroughly saturating the soil.
The potatoes produced by this mode of culture are perhaps
the finest, both for size and quality, in the world, and the
extraordinary rapidity of their growth, after the application
of the manure, is most astonishing. — Canadian Agriculturist.

DISCOVERY OF A NEW GUANO ISLAND.— Private
advices received on Monday from San Francisco refer to the
recent report of the discovery of a new guano island on the
coast of the Pacific. It was understood that one of the prin-
cipal American houses at San Francisco, in connection with
some parties in the Sandwich Islands, had received information
on the subject, and had purchased a revenue schooner, named
the Frolic, and a clipper bark, the Emily, of 400 tons, to pro-
ceed at once for cargoes. These vessels were fitted out with
as much secrecy as possible, but were believed to have taken
a considerable number of men and a large supply of imple-
ments. The situation of the island is supposed to be about
the latitude of Acapulco. It is said that it has no good
harbour, and that the guano will have to be shipped from it
in small vessels to some port near. Other accounts allege
that the island is somewhere on the coast of Lower California.

400

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

TRADE OF THE CRIMEA

Some interest will be felt iu knowitig tlie nature and im-
portance of the commercial relations kept up by the Russian
province where the allied armies have already obtained a
footing. The following sketch will give some idea ou the sub-
ject.

Let us first of all remark that the situation of the Crimea is
admirable, situated between the Black Sea and the Sea of
Azoflf — that is to say, between the Dinube on the west, the
Dnieper on the norih, and the Kuban on the east, all grand
commercial affluents of the European continent iu its Eastern
portion and of Southern Russian, as likewise of the Caspian
basin. No position could be better for carrying ou the inter-
national transactions of this part of the globe. The Crimea is,
moreover, specially favoured in its interior by the mildness of
its climate and by the fertility of a large portion of its terri-
tory, which is susceptible of every culture. In 1835 Mr.
Schnitzler estimated its extent at 1,646 square miles, and its
poptdation at 400,000 inhabitants, about 100,000 of whom are
Tartar, — a race which is dwindling- away and disappearing
before the increase of the Christian population.

Corn, wine, cattle, wool, pelts and furs, hides, hemp, honey,
oil, salt, and some fisheries — such are the chief elements com-
posing the wealth of the land, where a transit trade also exists,
since here corn and grain, oleaginous seeds, tallow and grease,
tobacco, silk. Eastern tapestry, and the like, are brought for
barter with the suffs, sugar, hardware, and other articles
wrought iu Europe, more especially in Russia itself.

Corn constitutes the bulk of the exports from the Crimean
harbours — these harbours being adjuncts, we may almost say
dependents, on the harbour of Odessa, that granary of the
Levant, or rather of Southern Europe. According to the
official reports for 1851 from the government of Taurida, the
corn harvest had increased to 2,568,497 hectolitres. Ten years
before it was hardly 1,000,000. It is particularly iu the dis-
trict of Berdiansk, peopled in part by foreign settlers, that the
culture of the cereals is most developed, and it is thought that
the entire basin of the Crimea, with that of the Sea of Azoff,
may supply commerce annudly veith 5,000,000 or 6,000,000
hectolitres. Moreover, the Crimea in 1851 was found to
possess nearly 2,000,000 sheep, half of which were fine-woolled,
248,260 head of horned cattle, and 85,700 horses. The salt-
mines of Perekop and Eupatoria have some celebrity, and, al-
though very inadequately worked, are a valuable source of
wealth to the country. It is also well known what an import-
ance the culture of the vine has acquired in the Crimea,
especially the vineyards of Simpheropol, Yalta, and Theodosia.
In 1851 their yield amounted to 83,798 hectolitres. The entire
vintage of the Crimea — the greater part of which is consumed
in the country, and the remainder of which is sold to cus-
tomers in the provinces of Southern Russia — may amount, it is
sail), to double the figure given above, that is, to about 160,000
hectolitres.

Th3 wines exported from the Crimea are, in general, of se-
condary quality, and are chiefly used, like those from the
Caucasus, for mixing with other wines or with other prepara-
tions. The rich vineyards of Prince WoronzofF are much praised.
They yield a sparkling wine, something like champagne.
Brought originally from Hungary, the Rhine, and Burgundy,
the plants to which the Crimea is now indebted for its wines
have almpst supeisedied the indigeuous vine of the penipsula.

M. de Tegoborski says that the Taurida possessed, in 1848,
35,577,000 vines, a number six times larger than what grevir
there 16 years before. The Russian Government has at all
times made great efforts to develope the culture of the vine in
the Crimea, and, to say the truth, it is almost the only culture
which has acquired there any importance. Manufactures are
at the lowest ebb. There are two or three factories for the
weaving of common cloth, a few tanneries and a few yards for
making morocco (Russian ?) leitber, and that is all.

As for the value of the exchanges carried on in the entire
basin of the Crimea and the Sea of Azoff, we will give the
figures quoted in the Annales du Commerce Exlerieur, the
best authority ou the subject, since it is formed either from
foreign statistics, or from the correspondence of our consular
and diplomatic agents. In 1841 the estimate was —

Imports. Exports. Total.

F. F. F.

Ports in the Crimea . . 780,000 2,308,000 3,088 000

Ports in the Sea of Azoff 5,208,000 22,088,000 27,296,000

Ten years later, in 1851, the value of the traffic of the Crimea
was only 1,747,000 f., a result showing a great diminution; and
for the ports in the Sea of Azoff 34,084,000 f., which, on the
contrary, shows a great increase. Kertch, placed on the
straits separating the Crimea from the Trauscaucasian pro-
vinces, and Taganrog, situated quite at the bottom of the Sea
of Azoff, count for much in this commercial total. They alone
exported in 1851 corn to the value of 7,564,000 f. — a sum
almost equal to the aggregate amount from all tlie other ports.
We must not, however, measure the commercial activity iu the
ports of the Crimea and the Sea of Azoff simply by the results
of the foreign trade. The coasting trade, which is there ex-
tremely active, would give almost an equal value of exchanges.
The home trade is also of some importance in the Crimea, and
it may be judged of by remarking that there are 79 fairs held
there every year. Goods to the vahie of 2,494,000 rubles
(nearly 9,000,000 f.) were brought to them in 1851 ; and what
is remarkable is the fact that, with the exception of the two
fairs at Simpheropol, aU of them are held in the Northern
districts, almost exclusively peopled with Christian agricul-
turists. To sum up, the foreign trade of the two seas in 1851
employed 1,561 ships, carrying 400,000 tons; and the coast-
ing trade may well have been three times larger.

The coasts of the Crimea offer, in fact, a large number of
harbours that in all times have been eminently useful to ships
frequenting these difficult, and sometimes dangerous seas. The
chief harbours are Eupatoria, Theodosia, or Kalfa, Kertch, and
Sebastopol ; to which we must adJ, as belonging to the same
sphere of commercial activity, the ports in the Sea of Azuflf —
viz., Beniiansk, Mariopol, Rostoff, aud Taganrog. The Ge-
noese thoroughly understood the importance of such a line of
coast when, towards the end of tlie 13th century, they pur-
chased, or rather took, from the Mongol-Tartars the ancient
Theodosia, spread their colonies over all Taurida, covered with
their ships the shores of the Euxine, aud founded Kalfa, which
soou became the principal centre of Europe's commerce with
Asia Minor, Persia, and the Indies. Two centuries later the
Crimea was for a long time blighted, as it were, with sloth
and sterility ; its cultures, its commerce pined away more and
more through ^trpphy ; an4 the yoke imposed, upon it by the

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

401

Muscovites in 1749 was little calculated to restore it. But,
thanks to the franchise granted by the Empress Catherine to
its ports subsequently, the peninsula saw its prosperity rapidly
return. Unfortunately, the Czar Paul, through some malign
inspiration, thought he ought to protect the commerce of
Taurida by cancelling this franchise, and replacing it by an
oppressive system of Customs, with all their restrictive regu-
lations. Nevertheless, the Crimea has progressed by the force
of things, by its own elements of vitality, by the constant
growth of the Christian population. And, now that the Black
Sea and the mouths of the Danube, free at last, are about to
be opened to navigation, to all the transactions of the western
nations, we may look upon this country as destined for great
things. — Debats.

AGRICULTURE IN EGYPT.— It is as true now as iu
the days of Zechariah, that in the land of Egypt there is no
rain — Zech. xiv. 17 — and the country is watered wholly from
the Nile. A trench is dug from the river leading to a reservoir
below its level, in which the water continually flows ; from
this the water is dipped up in buckets, by a contrivance like
the rudest well-pole — the Shadoof — which is worked by hand
or by a wheel with buckets — the Sakia — which is turned by
a rude cog-wheel apparatus, moved by a buffalo or a camel.
Sometimes, where the banks are high, there is a succession of
platforms with Shadoofs or Sakias to raise the water from one
to another. At the surface it is poured in a trench, from which —
as from an artery — smaller trenches brauchoff at intervals, and
usually at right angles, intersecting and irrigating all the
adjacent land. As the whole of Upper Egypt is but a fertile
strip, four or five miles wide by as many hundred miles in
length, lying upon both sides of the Nile, between two
deserts and their mountain boundaries, it is possible in
this way to keep the whole country well watered. In
the broader parts of the Nile valley, canals are cut,
into which the water flows when the river rises by the
effort of rain in the mountains of Nubia and Abyssinia
and from these canals it is dipped up by the Shadoof and the
Sakia, and poured into smaller trenches. In the Delta, or
Lower Egypt, below Cairo, the difi'erent branches of the Nile,
with the aid of artificial canals, suffice to flood the whole
country during the season of high water; and in the time of
low water, the Shadoof and the Sakia perform here, also, their
customary office. It has been computed that there are in
Egypt about 40,000 Sakias, or about four to every square
mile of cultivation ; but this seems to be an over-estimate.
The large sugar plantations of the Pasha along the banks of the
Nile, as well as the royal and the public gardens at Cairo, are
now watered by means of steam forcing-pumps. In Nubia
each water-wheel is taxed about fifteen dollars per annum ;
but there is no tax upon the land. In Egypt the land is taxed
about three dollars per acre — which is from ten to fifteen per
cent, of its cost — but there is no tax upon the water-wheel.
In this state of things, it was natural that the Shekh, on hear-
ing of the great American Nile, should wish to know the cost
of irrigatiu'^ the country from the river as a first item in his
comparison of the two countries. He was surprised to hear
that there were no Shadoofs or Sakias on the Mississippi, but
that sutBcient rain fell to irrigate the land, and seemed to re-
gard this as a great advantage. And so it is: for in Egypt the
land-owner must erect his own water-wheels, and, as the land
is held or rented in very small lots, the expense of watering it
by the toilsome process of the Shadoof is a main item iu the
ultivation. Frequently three or four neighbours combine aud

work the Shadoofs in company, for their common benefit. But
on the other hand, a land of rains requires better building
materials than are found in Egypt, and especially shingles, for
which this country furuishes no wood, unless the barks and
leaves of the palm could be made a substitute. The statement
that land could be bought for one dollar twenty-five cents per
acre, and held in perpetuity by the purchaser, sounded
strangely in a land where the greater part of the soil is held in
fee by the Pasha, and can be bought only at from twenty to
thirty dollars the acre, subject to a government tax of tr.ree
dollars. — Rev. J. Tliompson, in "Independent."

TRUE VALUE OF A FARM.— There is something in
the owning a piece of ground which affects me as did the old
ruins of England. I am free to confess that the value of a
farm is not chiefly in its crops of cereal grain, its orciiards of
fruit, and in its herds, but in those larger and more easily
reaped haiveats of associations, fancies, and dreamy broodings
which it begets. From boyhood I have associated classical
civic virtues and old heroic integrity with the soil. No one
who has peopled his young brain with the fancies of Grecian
mythology but comes to feel a certain magical fancy for the
earth. The very smell of fresh-turned ea»th brings up
as many dreams aud visions of the country as sandal-wood
does of Oriental scenes. At any rate, I feel, in walking under
these trees and about their slopes, something of that enchant-
ment of vague and mysterious glimpses of the past which I
once felt about the ruins of Kenilworth Castle. For thousands
of years this piece of ground hath wrought its tasks. Old
slumberous forests used to darken it ; innumerable deer
have tramped across it ; foxes have blinked through its bushes ;
and wolves have howled and growled as they pattered along its
rustling leaves with empty maws. How many birds ; how
many flocks of pigeons, thousands of years ago ; how many
hawks dashing wildly among them ; how many insects, noc-
turnal and diurnal ; how many mailed bugs, and limber ser-
pents, gliding among mossy stones, have had possession here
before my day ! ft will not be long before I, too, shall be
wasted and recordless as they. — Henry Ward Beeeker.

FARMING. — Among the most vigorous class of people, the
farmer may be found. There are many ways by which men of
the present age procure the necessaries of life, but no occupa-
tion is more conducive to health and happiness than farming.
There are several ways by which this may be exemplified.
First. — In order to make the muscles of the human body rigid
aud strong, they should all receive their due proportion of
exercise. Those trades and kinds of exercise that tend to give
every muscle its proper share of action, both of the upper aud
lower extremities, are most salutary, as it tends to develope
and strengthen them equally. Second. — The purer the air we
breathe, the longer the muscles can be employed in labour.
What department can be more thoroughly ventilated than the
open fields? Third. — Light has as great an influence upon
man as it has upon the plant, particularly that of the sun.
You have doubtless noticed a plant that grows in the shade is
weak and pale. The same is true of man ; both, in order to
make them strong, require the stimulus of this great agent.
There might be numerous other reasons brought forward to
show that farming is most conducive to health ; but it is use-
less to multiply them. In regard to happiness, I would ask
but one question to be resolved in your minds. What is
health but happiness ? Knowing that farming promotes the
greatest blesaing, let each and every one of us be engaged in

402

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

this business ; for shop work (particularly shoe making) does
not bring the lower limbs into any action, while the upper
limbs are constantly employed. The air indoors, where la-
bourers are employed, is not so healthy as it is in the great de-

planned by man, and needs no ventilation. In-door work is
not exposed to solar light ; hence let us devote ourselves to
that which affords us the purest air, and which exercises the
muscles in the right mode ; and that, aa we have already

partraent or shop owned by Uncle Sam, which was not ' proved, is farming. — Fanner and Mechanic.

FLAX CULTIVATION IN INDIA

Sir, — The effect which the war with Russia will
have ia calling into action the latent powers of other
countries to furnish those products which may be said
to be indigenous to her soil, will render it impossible
for her, in a commercial point of view, to return to the
status quo at the end of the present contest. The
result of a prolonged trade strike is the only parallel
to this probable condition ; and the causes are the
same, namely, the changes that take place in surround-
ing circumstances during the time occupied in active
hostilities, leaving neither party in the same relative
position at their termination.

Flax being a plant that is capable of profitable cul-
tivation over a very extended range of country and
climate, and being one of the principal articles of ex-
port from Russia, and the staple of one of our most
important home manufactures, it is to be hoped that
every legitimate effort will be made more fully to de-
velop and ramify its culture both at home and abroad.
As an incentive to the British farmer to continue to
keep these considerations in view, I beg to draw his
notice to the operations of a society in one of our most
remote and most recently-acquired provinces of India,
called the " Agri- Horticultural Society of the Pun-
jaub," a copy of whose printed proceedings has just
reached me by the Overland Mail. From these it
would appear that the " Zumeendars" of that province
have hitherto cultivated flax solely for its seed as an
oil-producing staple ; but the authorities and leading
men now appear to be fully alive to the increasing im-
portance and value of the fibre, and if they succeed in
enabling the native cultivators to produce a suitable
article for our markets, it will be difficult to set a limit
to the supplies which our vast Indian territories may
afford.

The members of the Agri-Horticultural Society of
the Punjaub, who met on the 20th of June last, to take
up the subject of flax cultivation, appear to be con-
fident of success ; and as they comprise the Judicial
Commissioners, the Deputy Judge Advocate, the Set-
tlement Officers, several officers of the army, and other
qualified individuals, every reliance may be placed on
their judgment.

In May last, they had sent samples of flax grown
under the auspices of the society to the Chambers of
Commerce of Bombay and Calcutta, and the latter re-
ported the samples as " the finest flax that had been
grown in the country," and that "its cultivation might
be safely encouraged."

In June following, J. Stalkartt, Esq., of the house
of W. H. Wharton and Co., of Calcutta, used this flax

in the manufacture of rope, and reported, that though
" not so fine as that of Europe, the length of the staple
is satisfactory ;" and he consequently ordered a large
quantity for rope -making.

Up to a recent period, as already stated, it appears
that flax has been cultivated in the Punjaub solely for
the production of linseed oil. Now, however, it is
proposed to save the fibre ; and the means by which
this is intended to be accomplished, is by the Indian
Government giving the bazaar price for the seed, with
25 per cent, added for the straw until its merchantable
quality has been ascertained in the English markets.
This appears slender encouragement to the native cul-
tivator to preserve the fibre, compared with what is the
case in this country, where a return of about four
times the value of the seed, or say ^12 per acre, is ob-
tained ; and this may account for the weakest point of
our practice— the reverse of the Zumeendars— being that
of not universally saving the seed.

The Punjaub Society has applied to Government and
the Court of Directors, requiring them to import a
large quantity of Belgian seed for this autumn sowing ;
likewise hand-brealts, seed-combs, and heckles. A
certain Irish corporal had been found most useful in
teaching the natives the use of these several articles,
and as they show considerable aptitude in acquiring the
art of manipulating the fibre, it may be thought worthy
of consideration by Government whether it would not
be good policy to send out, and place under the auspices
of this and oiher kindred societies in India, a number
of the industrious weaver-farmers of Ulster, to teach the
ryots how best to cultivate the crop, and prepare it for
mark — a step exactly similar to one which I recom-
mended the Leeds and Yorkshire Flax Society to adopt,
in a communicatioE addressed to them last April, anJ
which was read at its inauguration meeting, and pub-
lished in their reported proceedings.

In India, the Government, through the bazaars, will
supply a desideratum which has been the cause of much
discouragement to the growers in this country, namely,
middlemen to buy the straw and prepare it for the manu-
facturer. But these may be expected gradually to spring
up here, as required ; and even should their absence, in
some districts, oblige new growers to retain their flax in
stack for a year or two, they may gain by so doing, as it
is well known that the fine Courtray flax of France,
which is now selling at .£'120 a ton and upwards, is so
kept, after being slightly heated in the stack, and thus
improved from 40 to 50 per cent, in value.

If private enterprise should fail to supply the neces-
sary middlemen and locally convenient scutch mills, this

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

403

may be done, in many districts, by joint stock com-
panies, with " limited liability," on the principle laid
down by Mr. Commissioner Fane, in a paper lately
issued by him on the subject.

But with all existing drawbacks, the profit arising
from a reasonable breadth of well-managed flax has now
been so frequently and uniformly demonstrated, and its
non-exhausting effects upon the soil so fully proved,
both practically and scientifically, that it is to be hoped,
Mr. Editor, your able and influential pen will continue
to be employed in maintaining and inculcating its ad-
vantages. The future holds out more encouragement
to the farmer than the past. Our commercial relations
with Russia are not likely to be securely re-established
for some years to come, and the present convenient out-
let for her produce through the Prussian port of Memel
may next year be entirely shut up.

The agricultural produce of Russia imported into this
country in 1852 was valued as under : —

Flax, hemp, and linseed £4,500,000

Wheat and other grain 5,000,000

Tallow 1,800,000

Total £11,300,000

and it is now for the British farmer to sit down calmly,
and calculate, which of these products it will suit him
best to supply. Perhaps the decrease in the breadth of
flax grown in Ireland, from 175,495 acres in 1853 to

159,323 this year, may appear ominous in tlie eyes of
some ; but when ihe inducements that existed twelve
months ago to increase the breadth of wheat are borne
in mind, and the fact that the quantity of land under
flax cultivation this year is still nearly three times that
of 1847-48 and '49, and greater than in any preceding
year except the last, the doubts thus raised as to the
advantage of flax-growing to the cultivator, ought alto-
gether to disappear.* On the Audley estate in the
south of Ireland, under my agency, upwards of 100 of
the occupiers have, for several years past, had a portion
of their ground under flax, and are gradually increasing
it ; and though not in the habir of making calculations,
most of them believe that it affords a clear return, equal
to that derived from any other crop grown ; and my
own observation confirms their opinion.

I am, Sir, your obedient servant,

Thos. Scott.
5, Charing Cross, September 25th.

* FLAX GROWN IN IRELAND.

1847 58,312 acres.

1848 53,863 „

1849 60,314 „

1850 91,040 „

1851 140,136 „

1852 137,008 „

1853 175,495 ,,

1854 159,328 „

M'GLASHEN'S PATENT TRANSPLANTING APPARATUS.

On Wednesday, Oct. 1 1 , Mr. M'Glashen, the inventor, had the
honour of exhibiting the apparatus in its most improved form,
in full operation, in the palace grounds at Balmoral, in pre-
sence of his Royal Highness Prince Albert, the Hon. Eleanor
Stanley, Major-General Charles Grey, Colonel Phipps, the
Baron Stockmar, and Dr. Robertson,

Mr. M'Glashen first showed the simplest form of the inven-
tion— viz., that adapted for transplanting herbaceous plants —
with which he lifted a plant of common heather, with an ad-
herent ball of earth nine inches in diameter. He then applied
a machine with four spades or cutters, with which he lifted a
tall poplar tree with an adherent ball of earth 22 inches square.
By adding four other spades to those used in this operation, the
apparatus was in a few minutes converted into one suitable for
lifting a ball of earth 4 feet 8 inches in length by 3 feet 5
inches in breadth ; and with it he proceeded to operate upon a
fine bu:ch tree about 20 feet in height. The cutters being
driven in, and the apparatus adjusted, the tree was speedily
raised out of the ground, with a fine ball of earth around its
roots, the operations being conducted by Mr. Paterson, her
Majesty's gardener at Balmoral, with the assistance of two
workmen. His Royal Highness was greatly interested in the
inventiou, and with the satisfactory manner in which the work
was performed. In the course of the different experiments,
his Royal Highness called attention to several important im-
provements which he perceived the inventor had made since

the exhibition of -the apparatus in the London Horticultural
Society's Gardens, when a poplar 55 feet high was successfully
transplanted.

While preparations were being made for lifting the birch
tree, his Royal Highness took up one of the smallest-sized
transplanters (adapted for removing herbaceous plants), and,
having lifted with it a young poplar tree, remarked the great
facility with which the operation was performed. The large
birch tree was afterwards conveyed by the improved trans-
planting carriage (drawn by a horse) to a distance of a quarter
of a mile, where it was safely deposited. Notwithstanding the
roughness of the road, the conveyance of the tree was effected
with great ease, the construction of the carriage being such as
to require comparatively less strength for propelling a given
weight than an ordinary cart.

The whole of the experiments were so highly satisfactory,
that his Royal Highness gave orders for the purchase of the
apparatus employed on the occasion, for use on the Balmoral
estates.

From our account of the experiments, it will be seen that
the machine used at Balmoral is applicable to various sizes of
trees. When all the spades are used, it is adapted for lifting
trees with a ball of earth 4 feet 8 inches long by 3 feet 5
inches broad ; but, by using only four of the spades, a ball of
29 inches square may be raised with equal facility.

4U4

THE FARMER'S MAGAZI:NE.

THE WHEAT TRADE. — No. II

Dear Sir, — I propose in this letter to consider the
question of the supply of wheat for the ensuing season ;
but before entering upon it, I would beg leave to re-
mark that there are many circumstances in the present
condition of this country, without any precedent in its
history ; and therefore that any calculations of the fu-
ture, founded upon the experience of the past, are more
likely to prove fallacious than otherwise. The state of
warfare into which the nation has been plunged, if there
were any analogy between the present and the last con-
test, would infallibly cause a high price of provisions of
every kind. Those who remember the late war from its
commencement, are aware of the effect of a season of
scarcity, like that of last year, in thus raising corn to a
famine price • and they may well be surprised at the
comparatively very moderate advance, which was barely
sustained, with so large a deficiency as then existed in
the crop, and at the regularity of the supply obtained
from abroad. The fact is, free trade in corn has com-
pletely changed the character of our commerce in that
article, affording us ample facilities for supplying any
deficiency, at home from the redundancy in foreign
parts; and henceforth, unless we are foolish enough to
go to loggerheads with all the world, we never need fear
a iamine of bread. Every country with whom we are
at peace will be ready enough, both to send us what they
have in stock, and to extend their cultivation to meet
our future necessities.

Having premised thus much, I now turn to the imme-
diate object of my letter. I have already stated, taking
Mr. Sturge's estimate, that the stock of old English
wheat is at, the present moment, less by five million
quarters than it was at the same period last year, and
perhaps than the average of years. On the other hand,
the quantity of old foreign wheat is probably larger by
half a million quarters than it usually is at this season,
which will reduce the deficiency in stock to four and a-
hali millions. With this acknowledged deficiency, what
are, then, the prospects for the ensuing season ?

It is generally supposed that, both in England and in
Ireland, there has been an unusually large breadth of
wheat sown the last season ; but from some consi-
derations, we have reason to believe the excess in
Ireland is far greater than in England. In
the former country, there is no regular system of
cropping, every farmer being at liberty to sow his land
with whatever grain, &c., he thinks most likely to be
profitable. Hence, the deficient crop of wheat last year,
coupled with the breaking out of the war, giving pro-
mise of remunerating, if not high prices, the Irish
farmers returned to the cultivation of wheat, which
many of them had seriously determined to abandon alto-
gether. It is extremely probable, that at least one-fifth
greater breadth of wheat was sown in Ireland last year,
than in any one of the ten previous years, there being
uo covenants of lease to check it.

But with the English farmers generally the case is
widely different. A large proportion of these are bound
by their leases to a certain routine of crops, any devia-
tion from which, without the special permission of their
landlords, would render them liable to an ejectment.
And independent of this check, the arrangements of the
English and Scotch farms are so rigidly systematic
and methodical, that very few of them could with im-
punity be thrown out of course, for the sake of obtaining
an extra profit upon an excess of a given crop. By such
a proceeding the farmer would at once disarrange the
entire routine of both cropping and grazing, for which
any extra profit would be considered a poor remune-
ration.

It is equally true, however, that this adherence to
system was in some measure broken in upon by the
excessively wet season of 1852-3, which rendered it
impossible to sow the usual quantity of land with wheat.
We have, in a former letter of last season, estimated
this at one-fifth, to which extent therefore the land was
involuntarily thrown out of course. But this would
not affect that portion which would come in course for
wheat the next season, and it is probable that a part
of it at least was sown with wheat last autumn, which
would swell the aggregate breadth to that extent. What
this is, it is impossible to say. Many agriculturists with
whom I have conversed on the subject are of opinion
that the excess is very small, whilst others represent it
as one-sixth above the average. From all that I can
gather, I am disposed to think that on the light and
mixed soils there is very little more than usual, because
they were less affected by the wet weather ; but that on the
heavy lands, where it was impossible to sow in the
autumn of 1852, a large portion of the land was
sown last autumn. Taking, therefore, these various
circumstances into account, I do not think I shall be
far beyond the mark in estimating the extra breadth
sown in the United Kingdom last season at one-tenth
above the average, equal to 1,600,000 quarters. On
the other hand, there is an excess of produce above the
average of from one-sixth to one-eighth. Taking the
mean of one-seventh, our account of the present crop
and stock stands as follows : —

Qrs.

Average produce 16,000,000

Excess in breadth one-tenth 1 ,600,000

Excess of produce one-seventh . .
Qrs.

17,600,000
2,514,285

20,114,285

If to this we add one million and a-half of foreign grain,
we have an aggregate of 21,614,285 quarters to meet
the consumption of the year, which is estimated at
21,000,000. There will still, however, be the usual
stock of the country— now minus 5,000,000 quar-

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

405

ters — to be made up. For it would be monstrous to
suppose that in a country like this there should be no
stock on hand, to fall back upon in an emergency. We
shall, therefore, require an importation this year of
from four to five million quarters, to place us in the
average condition we have hitherto found ourselves
in, in regard to the stock of wheat.

We shall nest take a look round, and see how this
supply is to be obtained. As we have just stated, any
calculations for the future, founded upon the experience
of the past, are not to be depended on. With present
appearances, it is not at all likely that we shall obtain
the usual supply from the Black Sea ports, even if the
Danube is free to navigation, and the Crimea and
Odessa were in the possession of the Allies — as I hope
will soon be the case. The consumption and waste of
such large armaments, and the disarrangement of com-
merce and agriculture under the iron rule of war, to say
nothing of the probable prohibition of the Czar to his
subjects from supplying the Allies or conducting com-
merce with them from the interior — all these circumstances
lead me to think that the quantity of wheat we shall obtain
from Southern Russia this season will be very small. And
with respect to the Danubian Principalities, they have
been for twelvemonths the seat of war, and are still
occupied with vast armaments. Under the Russian
coercive domination, neither agriculture nor commerce
could be conducted with any regularity ; and it is
probable that not only was a large portion of the land
left unsown last autumn, but that much of the
growing crop has been destroyed by the military opera-
tions, and in furnishing the Russian cavalry with green
food; for no economic considerations would, by any pos-
sibility, enter the mind of a Russian officer. We shall
therefore have much less grain than usual from the
Danubian and other Turkish Black Sea ports, if we get
any at all, which is very doubtful.

From the Mediterranean ports, with the exception of
Egypt and Syria, we shall obtain but little wheat.
France and Italy are, for the present, closed against
exportation by prohibitory laws. The former country,
like the United Kingdom, has exhausted her stocks of
old native wheat, and is compelled to fall at once upon
the new crop, which, however good, will not be enough
both to meet the consumption and provide the usual
reserve stock. It is probable that France and England
will continue, as last year, to trade mutually with each
other in wheat, according as the markets fluctuate. If
the price falls here below that in France, the latter will
be buyers in our market ; and vice versa.

With regard to the Baltic and northern countries,
with the exception of Russia, the stocks of old wheat
are exhausted. Not only had the merchants the stimulus
of high prices to induce them to ship to the utmost ;
but the insecurity, and the uncertainty as to what course
the war would take, induced them to export to the last
quarter to England and France, as the only countries
where it would both be safe, and obtain remunerating
prices. The crops in those countries are good, and we
shall probably get an average quantity from thence, if
no untoward events cause a blockade of the Baltic ports.

We now come to the United States of America ; and
if the accounts of the maize crop — and wheat also, in
some parts of the Union — be correct, their prices will
probably be too high this season to allow of their ship-
ping more at any rate than the usual quantity this season.
It is stated in the American papers that the corn crop
(maize) is at least one -fourth deficient, which amounts
to 125,000,000 bushels, or 15,625,000 quarters.* And,
with regard to wheat, in some of the western States,
where the largest quantity is raised, the crop is very
deficient — in many cases amounting to a total failure.
To what extent this may be the case it is impossible to
say ; but, taking the deficiency in both crops into ac-
count, it must necessarily have its effect upon the price ;
and, unless our prices are higher than theirs, it will
materially affect the export of wheat from the States, and
also, probably, draw off a considerable portion of the
supplies from Canada, where the crop is represented to
be excellent.

Under these circumstances I estimate the supplies for
the next year as follows :—

ars.

The Northern ports 1,750,000

Mediterranean do. .. .. 500,000

Black Sea do. 300,000

United States .. .. 800,000

Canada 400,000

3,750,000

This may probably be made up to four millions from
quarters that do not come under the sections above
given ; but I cannot by any possibility see where we can
increase that quantity unless " a sudden transition from
war to peace" should restore our northern trade to its
accustomed channels. However, with this quantity
added to the abundant crop, we shall be able to reinstate
the country in nearly the same condition as to stock that
it has usually held ; and we need not fear that prices
will materially fluctuate throughout the season.

There is abundant reason for grateful reflection in the
prosperous condition of all classes throughout the
United Kingdom. Although the crop last year was a
deficient one, the price was sufficiently remunerative to
indemnify the farmer ; whilst on the other hand, every
other kind of agricultural produce bore a good price also,
where there was no failure, as in meat, cheese, &c. ; so
that, generally speaking, it was a profitable year for the
British farmer. This year, however, there is no ques«
tion as to the success of agriculture. It is the opinion
of many eminent men that we have not had so productiv
a season for fifty years. Certainly, we have had credib
accounts of a produce in wheat, such as we never before
heard of. This is undoubtedly to be ascribed to the
highly improved system of farming, coupled with the
favourable season; and thus a kind Providence has
worked with and seconded the efforts of human industry
and intelligence to the production of splendid results.
Yours faithfully,

London, Sept. 20th, 1854. S. C.

* The corn (or maize) crop of last year was 500,000,000 bush.

£ E 2

■106

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

REMARKS ON THE HORSES EXHIBITED AT THE LINCOLN SHOW OF THE
ROYAL AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY OF ENGLAND.

By Cecil.

The meeting of the Royal Agricultural Society of England,
held at Lincoln on the 20th and 21st of July, presented a
tempting inducement to visit that highly celebrated and sport-
ing county ; it also afforded me an opportunity of inspecting
Lord Henry Bentinck's hounds in their kennel— a gratifica-
tion which alone was quite sufficient to compensate an enthu-
siastic admirer of the fos-hound for the journey. The minute
details of an agricultural meeting are perhaps not quite suit-
able to these pages, if we except that portion relating to
hunters which always excites an interest with sportsmen.
Strange to say, they are a class of horses excluded from the
category of this highly influential society. The blank, on this
occasion, was most admirably filled up by the worthy Mayor
of Lincoln, J. J Tweed, Esq., who gave a sum of £40 for the
best stallion calculated to be the sire of hunters, and two
prizes— one of £20, the other of £10— for the most promising
geldings or mares, three years old, to make hunters.

No doubt can exist of the advantages which would accrue
from the adoption of adequate prizes for hunters and all kinds
of horses adapted for pleasure or business, whether they be
under the auspices of the Royal Agricultural Society, or
others of a similar character ; but the conditions require to
be well matured and judiciously defined. There is a stimulus
to the pursuit of breeding at the present crisis which only
requires careful assistance to ensure ultimate success. Pre-
judices exist in the minds of many owners of stallions against
exhibiting them on such occasions, not altogether without
foundation. To bring the custom of exhibiting horses into
good repute, the temptation held forth must be a prize of
adequate value, and the selection of competent judges is a
circumstance of the utmost importance. The oflSce is an in-
vidious one, and, to alleviate that objection, certain data
should be adopted for their guidance, but without fettering
them in their general opinion ; for decisions in such cases must
be to a certain extent, matters of opinion, in which the most
experienced judges will at times vary ; entertaining, as they
do different ideas on the merits, perfections, and defects, as
to what are the most important qualifications in horses. No
person is competent to adjudicate on the eligibility of a can-
didate for the honour of begetting hunters, or any other class
of horses in use for the saddle, unless he has had great ex-
perience in the breeding department ; with this must be com-
bined a thorough knowledge of pedigree, and also of racing,
in order that he may be able to trace hereditary characteristics
which are transmitted through certain families, many of which
are developed on the turf more unequivocally than by any
other test. A judge of hunters, and of horses best adapted
to become sires of hunters, must be accustomed to ride to
hounds, and constantly observing the horses he meets with
in the hunting field, so that he may have an eye for the kind
of animal most generally admired, and be able to determine
what blood is most celebrated for soundness, speed, and en-
durance in that occupation, which is not on all occasions cor-
relative with racing performances. Many horses have been
very remarkable for their success as sires of hunters, which
have been singularly unfortunate iu the harem of the turf.
Of these, we may name Master Henry, Eyledener, Spectre,

and Belzoni, neither of which was the sire of an animal worthy
of the name of race-horse, but for hunting purposes their
stock was very superior. There are likewise several horses
which have distinguished themselves as the progenitors of
superior stock in both departments, and their blood should
never be lost sight of, when making selections for stud pur-
poses. The most conspicuous of those which occur to me at
the present moment are Orville, Muley, Sir Oliver, William-
son's Ditto, Pantaloon, and Sir Hercules ; any descendants
from them, unless hereditary defects are established from
other sources, are especially adapted to beget hunters. There
are very few horses, indeed, against which some objections
may not be raised ; it is therefore incumbent upon judges that
they compare the merits with the defects, and award their
decisions in favour of those in which good qualities predomi-
nate, estimating them likewise with reference to their specific
importance. The character of the stock from every tried stallion
is also a subject which demands especial notice, and ought to
form a conspicuous item whereby the estimate of his merits are
balanced. One of the very important features connected
with the exhibition of horses at agricultural meetings consists
in the examples afforded to all classes of breeders, but more
especially to the inexperienced, of the kind of horse which is
best adapted for the purpose. This information is, or ought
to be, gained from the selections made by the judges ; similar
opportunity also arises from the discussions which ensue be-
tween friends. It is exceedingly amusing to hear the opinions
expressed by spectators, who, entertaining very felicitous, but
mistaken notions of their own judgment in horse-flesh, give
utterance to the most ludicrous expressions.

With the exception of horses, mares, and young stock
adapted for agricultural purposes, the prizes offered by the
Royal Agricultural Society are confined to roadster stallions —
a term of expansive comprehension, and might be subdivided
into four or five classes. A horse sixteen or seventeen hands
high, only fit for harness, comes under that denomination ; so
does the powerful, active, sure-footed cob, from fourteen to
fifteen hands high, capable of carrying a heavy weight, which,
if very handsome and clever, is worth as much money as a
hunter. The speedy hack, nearly, if not quite thorough-bred,
adapted to carry a moderate weight fifteen miles within the
hour; the lady's docile, graceful palfrey ; and the child's pet
pony — these are alike deserving of encouragement. But the
horse that is calculated to be the sire of one class, cannot
under any circumstances, however diversified the character of
the mares, be expected to fulfil the same duty in the pro-
duction of either of the others. It would be just as reason-
able to expect that a Derby winner should be the issue of a
cart stallion.

The country around Lincoln could have supplied horses of
higher reputation and greater intrinsic worth than those which
were exhibited for Mr. Tweed's prize, peradventure the pre-
judices already named interfered. Nevertheless, the example
is worthy of imitation, and with well-digested arrangements,
would doubtless become popular. There were nine entered,
and the award was given in favour of Loutherbourg. Without
introducing any comparison between the merits of this horse

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

407

and those of his competitors, he ia certainly not the animal
that aa experienced judge would select for the purpose of
breeding hunters ; his symmetrical proportions are not calcu-
lated to transmit power ; he possesses hereditary bad fore-legs,
has narrow hips, with exceedingly light thiglis, consequently a
deficiency of the propelling powers indispensable in a hunter.
Neither will his pedigree prove attractive to a fox-hunter.
Mameluke was his sire, his dam by Smolensko — blood never
celebrated for endurance, substance, or stamina ; hereditary
properties inseparable from the perfection of a hunter. Mame-
luke was by Partisan, a strain of blood not so deficient of
stoutness as the Smolensko ; but the badness of their fore-
legs, observable in most of his stock, has generally proved an
impediment in the essential consideration of soundness. The
first prize given for three-year-olds, calculated to make
hunters, fell to the share of Mr. Stockdale, on behalf of a very
clever gelding by Robinson, from a mare nearly related to
Lottery, the celebrated steeple-chase horse, to whom consider-
able resemblance might be traced. The owner of this colt
also exhibited another by the same sire, well worthy of notice,
but not quite so lengthy as the former; perhaps on that
account not less estimable. The second prize was awarded to
a chesnut gelding, by an Arabian, dam by Cardinal Puff,
exemplifying much more the character of a good hack than
that of a hunter. The arrangements of these exhibitions do
Bot afford spectators opportunities of forming opinions with
respect to the action of the horses brought to them for com-
petition, as they are confined during the whole of the day in
the boxes or stalls appropriated for their accommodation, and
action is one of the most important accomplishments riding
horses can inherit. There is a great laxity observable in the
pedigrees of the horses entered for competition ; the accuracy
of which ought to be regarded with as much exactness as in
entering for a racing engagement— Sporting Magazine.

DAIRIES V. PIANOS.

" Farmers' wives were too proud for their work."

" If a farmer's wife would have a good dairy, she would
have little time to play the piano." {Vide Observer Neivspaper,
Oct. 8th, 1854.)

Sir, — The account in the Observer of the meeting of
the Sparkenhoe Farmers' Club, at Ashby-de-la-Zouch,
andthespeech of Mr. Colvill, M.P., from which the above
extracts are taken, may not be unworthy notice, for it
shows irom what quarter the wind blows ; although it
may not always be wise to raise a breeze, or to speak
one's thoughts too freely, yet the sentiments of Mr.
Colvill are such as find an echo in the breast of many a
country gentleman and English landlord.

We educate the children in the National Schools to
sing, though they are but labourers' children ; but the
wives and children of those who are of the class above
them are not to think of music, but to be mere serfs.

It is in vain to deny that the landlords of England, as
a class, do not like to see a thriving tenantry. A small
shop-keeper may put by something out of his earnings —
but not so the farm tenant. If he does, it is looked upon
as so much out of the landlord's pocket, and the rent is
raised. Few landlords like to see their tenants otherwise
than "at their work ;" and yet all landlords call out for
tenants " of capital," for improving tenants ;" but then
the capital is to be spent on the landlord's soil, in improv-
ing it, not the tenant, and is not to come back to him.

A tenant guiding a plough, his wife milking lier
cows, or doing household drudgery, is a sight most taste-
ful to most landlords. The tenant must be sufficiently
thriving to pay his rent in full ; have capital enough to
drain and manure highly, and " with spirit" to do it ;
and with confidence enough in " a vigilant agent" to be
guided by him as to the kind of manure to be employed,
its quantity, and where to be spread. But the tenant is
not to feel himself, or to be, independent ; he is to be a
machine to raise rent for his landlord ; he is to have for
himself no comforts abroad or at home, or recreations
there. He is not to drive a gig, be it ever so homely or
convenient to himself and wife on market-days ; it
savours of the wish to keep a carriage— which is a land-
lord's luxury.

Other capitalists, paying £200 or £300 per annum
or more, of rent, may be expected to make out of their
business an equal sum for themselves, and how this is
spent no landlord would think of asking a shop tenant ;
but not so the farm tenant. He is to be just able to live
decently, but not aspire to put anything away for
old age.

But if a tenant pays his rent and cultivates his land
fairly, why need he feel under an obligation to the land-
lord, who has let him the land ?

He may be sure that it was not to benefit him in
particular, that the farm was let. The interests and
convenience of the landlord were first consulted in the
matter, and the landlord either had not the capital or
the inclination to keep the farm in his own hands, or was
afraid of not merely losing his rent, but of incurring a
still greater loss of capital.

I am. Sir, your most obedient servant,

Oct. Utk, 1854. A Tenant Farmer.

A DROP OF OIL. — Every man who lives in a house, es-
pecially if the house be his own, should oil all the various parts
of it once in two or three months. The house will last much
longer, and will be much more quiet to live in. Oil the locks,
bolts, and hinges of the street-door, and it will shut gently,
with luxurious ease, and with the use of a small amount of
force. A neglected lock requires great violence to cause it to
shut, and with so much violence that the whole house, its doors,
its windows, and its very floors and joists, are much shaken,
and in time they get out of repair in all sorts of ways, to say
nothing of the dust that is dislodged every time the place is
so shaken. The incessant banging of doors, scrooping of locks,
creaking and screaming of hinges is a great discomfort. Even
the bell-wire cranks should sometimes be oiled, and they will
act more certainly and with such gentle force that there will be
Uttle danger of breaking any part of them. The castors of tables
and chairs should be sometimes oiled, and they will move with
such gentle impulse and so quietly that a sleeping child or old
man is not awakened. A well-oiled door-lock opens and shuts
with hardly a whisper. Three pennyworth of oil used in a
large house once a year will save many shillings in locks and
other materials, and in the end will save many pounds in even
the substantial repairs of a house ; and an old wife living and
sleeping in quiet repose will enjoy many more years of even
temper and active usefulness. Housekeepers, pray do not for-
get the oU. A stitch in time saves nine, and a drop in time
saves pounds, — The Builder.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

CULTIVATION OF FLAX

In some observations which appeared a few
months since in our columns, on the im-
portance of extending the cultivation of flax in
the United Kingdom, we adverted at considerable
length to a process patented by Mr. J. N. Dixon,
for preparing the finest flax-fibre from the straw
as it comes from the field, without the retting pro-
cess, and for rendering coarse, fibrous materials,
the produce of foreign countries and our own
colonies, capable of being spun into the finest yarn.
In drawing attention to this process, we did it in
no unfriendly spirit. We allowed Mr. Dixon to
tell his own story; we gave in detail the certificates
which he had published from Dr. Ryle and others,
in testimony of the fineness of the specimens sub-
mitted to their inspection, and the advantages
which would follow if the process should succeed
on the large scale. We stated, moreover, that we
knew strong hopes to be entertained by some
eminent flax-spinners that it might be possible to
prepare flax without retting it, so that it could be
employed as a substitute for the Russian flax used
for the coarser fabrics, for which there is the great-
est and most increasing demand.

This, it appears, was not sufficient for Mr.
Dixon, who is offended because we expressed, at
the same time, doubts whether, for the finer fabrics,
we shall ever be able to dispense with steeping,
in some form or other. He has reprinted
separately, under the title of " The ' Mark Lane
Express' versus Dixon's patent Machines and
patent Fluid," a letter originally addressed to the
Banner of Ulster. Of this brochure he has for-
warded us a copy, together with a private letter, in
which he says that he has been compelled to this
course, as it would have prejudiced his " views"
and " damped his exertions" if he had suffered the
matter to remain unanswered. He begs us also
to reprint his letter to the Banner of Ulster, or
auch parts of it as we may deem " a sufficient an-
swer to the point at issue."

We can only say that we wish Mr. Dixon every
success ; and that the best answer he can give to
our doubts (expressed, as we contend, with the
greatest moderation, and, we repeat, in no un-
friendly spirit) would be, certificates from manu-
facturers who had worked up a few tons of the
fibre prepared by his process, and who were satis-
fied with the quality of the fabrics produced from
it. There has been abundant time for this ; and,
with the present dearth of flax, there are plenty of

spinners who will not be deterred from making the
experiment by anything which they may read. This,
however, is not thecourse pursued by Mr. Dixon.
He wants the leading journals of Great Britain and
Ireland to "ascertainand report on the absolute facts,
as it is well known that we are at a loss for paper
materials ;" and he trusts the powerful assistance of
the press will not be sohcited in vain. We would
remind him, therefore, that paper and cambric are
two very different things, and that it may be quite
possible to prepare fibrous materials for the manu-
facture of the former by processes which would
not produce an article applicable to the latter.
Flax-spinners must be better judges of the raw
material adapted to their wants than the gentlemen
of the press ; and even as regards paper, the latter
are better qualified to judge of it in its manufac-
tured state than in that of the raw material from
which it is made.

This fact is admitted by Mr. Dixon himself,
who intimates that he must be a better judge of
flax than the Editor of this journal, in consequence
of twenty-five years' experience in the cultivation,
selection, spinning, and weaving of flax ; besides
some years' experience in a brewery and distillery.
He looks upon us as mere theorists, while he has
reduced his theories to practice.

We do not question Mr. Dixon's experience ;
but we know gentlemen of equal experience, who
have made large fortunes by flax- spinning, on
whose judgment, rather than our own, we expressed
doubts whether, though it may be possible to pre-
pare flax for the coarser fabrics without steeping,
it can be wholly dispensed with for the finest, in
some form or other, or in some stage of the prepa-
ration. Of the principles of Mr. Dixon's process
we know nothing ; for we cannot consider that he
has explained them, till he publishes details of the
nature of the fluid which he employs ; whereas, all
he tells the world about it is, that it is " neither
soda, bariUa, sulphuric acid, chloride of lime, nor
any other bleaching stuff or liquid now in general
use, and that it consists entirely of vegetable
matters the produce of our own soil" — a fact, by
the way, quite consistent with its being either an
alkali or an acid.

" In my opinion," says Mr. Dixon, " the only
way to clearly demonstrate the facts to the manu-
facturing trade, and for the information of the
Mark Lane Express Editor, and to convince him
of the foundation and evidence I have for saying

TiiE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

409

he is in error, will be given in the following
calculations." The calculations thus triumphantly
appealed to refer to the greater produce obtained
by Mr, Dixon's process than that v/hich is
yielded by the old method. It is not calculations,
however, which we want— it is facts; and above

all, the fact that some of our principal spinners
have tested the plan commercially, by spinning a
few tons of tibre prepared by Mr. Dixon's pro-
cess. Till then, we- must retain our doubts, while
at the same time we wish Mr. Dixon every
success.

NORTHAMPTONSHIRE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY

It is only within the last few weeks that we have
had to speak to the commendable tone, as the
legitimate object which now so generally character-
ize the meetings of our Agricultural Societies. Of
the many we have attended during this last sum.mer,
in the proceedings of others as we have gathered
them from local reports, we scarcely remember to
have heard or read a word out of " order." We
can speak as proudly as honestly to the excellent
taste shown by the agriculturists of this country.
We must add, too, our v/ord for the majority of
those with whom they v/ere so lately engaged in
all the unprofitable hostilities of a civil war. By a
combination of whatever " lucky accident" better
times may have been brought about, let us be con-
tent to take them as they are, and make the best
use of that talent committed to our care. By this
test must the farmers of the kingdom be judged.
Acting on this line of policy must their demonstra-
tions be made ; and with this as the golden rule
for their observance will their own class associations
continue to exist and to flourish.

We repeat that it is this wise they do flourish.
There is not an assemblage now, district or na-
tional, but where the one great object is the steady
and rational advance of British Agriculture. On
our last reference to meetings of this kind, then
being held in many parts of the country, we had
to call some evidence as to what landlord and tenant
are now saying and doing for the becoming pro-
gression of their joint interest. Strange as it may
appear, there was little indeed to find fault with.
The most critical observer, armed with a " brief"
to ridicule and bring into contempt all he heard
and saw, must have found his task a hopeless one.
Bold as it may be to write it, no man committed
himself. No one, here or there, owned to sufficient
bad taste to revive bye-gone bickerings. None of
those called up to address their fellows yielded to
the attractions of sheer buffoonery, or to the more
delicate fascinations of sarcasm, in jeering or carp-
ing at others not directly united with them in the
business of the day. The toast list, like the prize
sheet, was kejit closely to the text-word of such
societies, as now so properly interpreted — what can

landlord and tenant do for British Agriculture as
it is ?

The meeting held yet later in the not unimportant
county of Northampton was precisely of this cha-
racter. The Society we find flourishes exceedingly,
simply because its proceedings ai'e confined to the
legitimate object of such a Society. "The Show-
yard was full of excellent stock and poultry" — "the
ploughing field presented an animated scene" —
"the attendance was unprecedented for numbers."
So says the report from which we quote. The
senior judge, too, in returning thanks for the com-
pliment paid to these gentlemen, " spoke in high
terms of the stock shown." Everybody, in fact,
appears to have left satisfied that such exhibitions
had done much, and would do yet more, for the
farming of Northamptonshire. So far, the Society
is all the most exacting might expect of it. Let us
see it, however, a little further — from the show-
yard to the dinner-pavilion, where " upwards of
two hundred sat dov/n." Let us watch here,
v/hether our Northamptonshire friends are going
to counteract all the good they have been aiding
to in the morning. Yv^e follow them accordingly,
speech for speech and line for line, and v/e rise up
well satisfied with our scrutiny. There is scarcely
a word but is in excellent keeping with time and
place. Suggestions for what may be done yet ;
well-merited tribute to those who work with us ;
the caution of the experienced ; the honest com-
pliment from tliose well qualified to pay it; a
pardonable joke, perhaps, or a curious fact from the
practice of those who have already gone so far a-
head of us — all this tends yet more to assure us
that the meeting of the Northamptonshire Agri-
cultural Association was a most creditable as well
as a most successful one.

" To be sure," as our powerful contemporary
the Times ^vrites it, " there can be no great use in
commenting upon the past mistakes of political
opponents." To be sure there cannot. Let our
endeavour be the rather to assist them to forget
that they ever made or owned to them. Let us
even admit, if it be necessary, that a " lucky acci-
dent" or two liud something to do with the total

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prostration of this egregious error. But, above all,
let our aim be to wash out the remembrance of this
political opposition. As conquerors, surely we can
be generous enough to say nothing about it, if they
do not. While, if they do more than this — if, in-
stead of sinking into obstinate despair, they try
everything in their power to suit themselves to
altered circumstances, and so to prove yet the more
how right we were, surely it is but our duty to offer
them every encouragement, and give them every
credit, we honourably can.

We are glad to declare our thorough conviction
that the public generally are doing this, and that
such political opposition as that referred to, is dying
out day by day. Extraordinary, however, as it may
sound, the able journal from which we have quoted
so excellent a piece of advice — as to " there being no
great use in commenting on the past mistakes of
political opponents " — contradicts in the very
same article its own assertion. If there be any use
in the Times' critique on the Northampton meeting
— which we beg very honestly to doubt — it is sim-
ply by commenting on what are called " the past
mistakes of political opponents." In this, in fact, we
have everything. There is scarcely a word on the
society as it now acts and prospers, saving, per-
haps, a laugh at " a long-wooUed tup" or " a prime
cart stalUon." No ; the men, landlords or tenants,
who are now filling their positions so worthily, and
really doing so much not merely for their own, but
the common good, once thought this, or said that.
Enough. Every hard word that could wound and
rankle in the fiercest days of pohtical opposition is
revived. Every effort is made, to place the agri-
culturist of this country once more in open warfare
with those it should be the aim of all of us to see
him united. Happily, the thing carries ^vith it its
own remedy. We believe there is not a man
in the kingdom, who takes the trouble to think
for himself, but will read this commentary
on " past mistakes of political opponents " with
sorrow and regret. Seldom, indeed, have we
ever seen anything so thoroughly indiscreet; or,
as it were, intended to work more harm and arouse
more ill-feeling. Every word appears tortured into
ridicule and party purpose. It would be worse than
tedious to follow out " comments" offered in such a
spirit, and which the writer himself admits can be
of no use ! Let us be content with the first line or
so in his analysis of the several speeches of the
day. " Mr. Stafford," then, "broke ground with
a regulation tirade upon the agricultural labourers
of England." Here is the "tirade;" so that the
reader may judge for himself how much in place it
was at an agricultural meeting ; and as, according
to our commentator, " how much better it would
have been had the red wine been trickling down

Hodge's throat," and so on : " When economists
said that labour was simply a question of trade,
they said the truth. But did they say all the
truth ? If, in their intercourse with their fellow-
men, they cut off the kindly affections and generous
sympathies, ignored the self-denial, the love of
country and of home, however humble, they would
do little to maintain the institutions of the country,
and to kindle that kindly feelinf in the poor man's
heart which, after all, they must trust to, and not
the less because they knew how to trust themselves
while they sympathized with others. Was it not,
too, a question of the oldest and the best Enghsh
feeling — a feeling which had made England what
she is, and what he trusted in God she might ever
continue ? If they wanted proof of this, he would
remind them that in later times, after the question
of free import of provisions had been settled, when
riots in the towns were rife, there was no disaffec-
tion in the agricultural districts. (Hear, hear.) The
labourers of England stood by the tenant-farmers,
bearing manfully their burden with the rest of the
community. Prom no one locality was heard a
word of complaint from those men to whose health
he asked them to fill their glasses to the brim and
drain them to the bottom — 'The Agricultural La-
bourers of England.' "

Somehow or other we do not see that Mr. Staf-
ford need be so much ashamed of his " tirade," or
afraid of any one attempting to deny the great
truths contained in it. It is but fair to say his
commentator does not ; resting well satisfied with
the facetipe of " pouring the red wine down Hodge's
own throat," and such like unanswerable argu-
ment. Mr. Knightley, the chairman, is treated in the
same way, chiefly (one would think), from labouring
under the double misfortune of being a son of Sir
Charles Knightley, and having heard of a man in
the Highlands who was mowing oats with one hand
and holding a large cotton umbrella in the other!
As for Sir Charles himself, no abuse is too bad for
him ; all this, of course, mainly depending on the
maxim of there being " no great use in commenting
on the past mistakes of political opponents." Be-
yond these, which consistently occupy more than
half the article, we find the worthy Baronet regis-
tered as " disliking guano," because he dared to
give vent to his suspicions of its being occasionally
adulterated ! recorded as disliking superphosphate
for just the same reason; then, gradually patronized
for " acting in his true vocation ;" and at length
commended outright for displaying none of " the
insanity of the mischievous politician, who would
perpetuate civil aiscord .'"

A word yet, and we have done with what one
hardly chooses to further consider. Is there any
vise in commenting on, or in perpetually harping

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

411

over and sneering at, the past mistakes of political
opponents ? None. Then why do so ? And,
who is it that has been displaying the insanity of
the mischievous politician, who would perpetuate
civil discord ? Not the Agriculturist, you say.
Landlord or Tenant ? Need we press the question ?

The most successful ijieeting ever held by this society came
off on Thursday, the 21 st Sept., at Daventry. The show-yard
was full of excellent stock and poultry, the ploughing-field
presented an animated appearance, and the attendance was un-
precedented for numbers.

At the dinner, over which Mr. Knightly, M.P. (the presi-
dent of the association), presided, that gentleman, in returning
thanks for his health being drunk, said he had come from
the extreme North of Scotland to attend this meeting. It was
said they ought to learn something everywhere ; but he feared,
as far as farming went, that he had not brought much thence
which could be of service to the agriculturists of Northamp-
tonshire. He had seen a farmer getting in his hay, and carry-
ing it in a huge hencoop on two poles, harnessed to a pony
about as big as a jackass. There were no forks or rakes, but
the hay was gathered by Highland women, with no other
weapon than nature gave them. That was what he called hay-
making under difficulties. A friend of his told him he saw a
farmer mowing oats with one hand, and holding a large cotton
umbrella over his head with the other (laughter). He was
happy to learn that in these parts they had been most success-
fal in getting in a most productive and fruitful harvest. Thank
God for it ! Never was there a time when it was more needed.
The country was afflicted with two of the greatest evils that
could well befall it — war and pestilence. If to disease had
been superadded famine, the consequences would have been
fearful ; for at present we are contending with a power that
held in its hands the keys of the granary of Europe. He
would not re-open the corn question, but he thought the most
sceptical must now be convinced that in times of danger and
difficulty these islands must be dependent for subsistence on
the industry and energy of the British farmer.

Sir Chas. Knightley, in returning thanks for his health
being drunk, said he was very glad to see his old friends, and
he was more gratified than he could express at finding that
they had not forgotten him altogether, though he had ceased
to hold the honourable situation amongst them which he so
long filled. It was so long • since he was in a large meeting
that if it had been anywhere else, or amongst other company,
he should have almost felt modest and abashed, and should
probably have been unable to express the few remarks which
he desired to utter. He supposed they had come there to tell
each other all they knew ; he hoped, however, they would say
it in plain English, and not talk in a style alike unintelligible
to themselves and to other people. He was one of the old
brown-coated farmers, and he confessed that he was not illu-
mined by the fresh lights of modern days. Although he did
not depreciate modern improvements and modern science, still
he believed that many of them were such as farmers could not
profitably put into practice. Many of them no doubt were
useful, but many were worthless. He remembered, for in-
stance, once going to a Shropshire meeting, where he heard of
an experiment at Lord Hill's, of putting a quantity of iron
conductors into the ground to draw down the lightning to fer-
tilize the corn (laughter.) He subsequently asked hig lordship
whether he thought that any benefit had been derived, and
leceived a reply ia the negative. As to the modern manures'

he was ready to allow that great improvements had been made.
He contended, however, that men should know what the ma-
nures were made of. He read of guano and s\iperphosphate of
lime ; but he believed that much of the so-called guano had
never crossed the seas, and that the phosphate was
often nothing more than bones dissolved in sulphuric
acid. Oilcake, again, if good, was most valuable. He
had bought it, however, filled with sand, and he
believed there was no greater fraud practised upon the farmers
than in the supply of adulterated oilcake. With regard to the
breed of cattle, he might be allowed to say that he was an old
practitioner, and he had lived long enough to discover that
there was as much humbug in that as in anything else (loud
laughter). Perhaps they may not be aware of the fact, but it
was so nevertheless. The man who made the money was not the
man who had got the best stock, but he who was reputed to have
the best (laughter)— the man who could get his friends to hold
his stock up, and puff it up for him, and run down that of his
neighbours (renewed laughter). For his own part, he had been
trying a great many years to get his stock with good shoulders
and bosoms; but now he found that he was all wrong. The
modern plan was to get wide heavy shoulders like steam-
engines ; such being the only animals, he was told, to carry
flesh. Well, he supposed he must conform, or he should lose
the sale of his stock (Hear, hear). There was one thing worthy
of notice : owing to free-trade alterations and the unrestricted
importation of cattle, the value of cattle in this country had
become materially changed. His advice to his friends there-
fore was, to breed the best animals they could. It was the
fashion to go into the fairs, and buy a lot of Scotch and black
cattle ; that had, perhaps, been done as well as they could in
their own country, and looked and handled well, When they
got them home, they gave them oilcake, &c."; but after all, they
were disappointed that the beasts did not get on, and event-
ually they were displeased with their Smithfield salesmen for
making so small a price of them. The fact was, they were a
set of animals that never would do well ; and if farmers con-
tinued to buy them they would go to the waU. Every man
ought to breed the be^t for himself, and not be dependent on
another. Some might say that their land was too good for
breeding. He knew the land of the county as well as any
man in it, and he knew that there was a great deal of it
supposed to be good that was not good. Much of it that was
used for feeding land would not feed. Now the great thing
was for farmers to adapt their system to the land they occu-
pied. Much of it now used for feeding will dairy to greater
advantage. Cheese making, too, was but little pursued in this
county, possibly because the operation devolved upon the lady
part of the family, and required the operator to go to bed
early and to get up early. The young ladies did not hke this,
and the old ladies were not up to it — hence there was no
cheese-making (laughter). He believed, nevertheless, that on
many farms it would be a much better way of employing time
and capital than was now pursued. He congratulated them
on the bountiful harvest which, through God's goodness, had
been granted to them. He did not think that corn would
rule at either a high or a low price ; but he hoped that the price
would be such as to remunerate the producer, whilst it was not
too high for the consumer. He should be glad to see it range
between 7a. and Ss. per bushel; he never wished to
see it higher, and he hoped it would'nt go lower (Hear,
hear). He cautioned them, however, against regarding
the present year as a criterion for another. Next year's har-
vest might possibly be as plentiful as the present ; but corn
would not probably bear the same price. This was an excep-
tional year. There was drought in America, which had caused

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the Indian com crop to fail, aud had materially affected the
wheat crop. The Black Sea ports were shut up, and we were
mainly dependent upon our o^vti supplies. Sufficient for the
day, however, was the evil thereof. We were well off for this
year, and he hoped we should be more happy and comfortable

than we had been for several years past. He had lived
amongst them many years (cheers), and he hoped to remain
amongst them as long as he lived, and he could assure them
that their kind feeling and estimation would be the greatest
comfort of his life (renewed cheering).

SCOTCH FARMING.— LANDLORD, TENANT, AND LABOURER.

'With whatever satisfaction we may watch the
proceedings of such meetings as may be supposed to
come within our own more immediate province, it is
gratifying to find that we can go yet further afield
under equally encouraging auspices. It is not merely
in England alone that we notice the good sense with
which an agricultural festival is kept to that object
for which it is assumed to be held. True enough
though it be that even now, perhaps, one so-called
agricultural society is strangely mixed up with all
the by-gone bitterness of a political instrument,
such a one becomes only the more distinguished
by its want of discretion and of common sense.
The farmers, however, as we take it, have them-
selves but little voice in the continuance of any so
unprofitable an exception; if they have, we can
only impress upon them the good policy of reform-
ing it altogether.

Let " byegones be byegones," and our only aim
be to cement a tmion. which shall worthily advance
the cause of British agriculture. In looking, again,
for some v/ho are doing this, we may, as we have
already hinted, extend our travels with some good
showing for the excursion. At such a time — just
when we are hearing so much of what the Scotch
farmer is doing, or what he is not doing — it may
not be altogether out of season to take our way
northvv'ards, and there learn what the Scotch owner
and occupier do really think and say for themselves.

At Haddington, then, only a few days since, a
dinner took place to celebrate the opening of the
new Corn Exchange in that town. It appears to
have been vv^ell attended by both the landlord and
tenant interests of the district ; the addresses, at
least so far as we can find them reported, being
chiefly in the care of the former. From either, how-
ever, we seek in vain that wild exaggerated spirit
of going-a-head, by which v/e have lately been told
to distinguish our northern neighbours. The
7neeting, on the other hand, strikes us as being re-
markable for the soundness of the doctrines ad-
vanced, and the excellence of the advice oflfered.
The Marquis of Tweeddale for instance, the chairman
of the occasion, in proposing the especial toast of
the evening — " Success to the Haddington Corn
Exchange," concluded his speech with this excel-
lent caution t—" Allow me to guard you against

theories. Rather carry out the practical experience
of men who are acknowledged authorities in the
matter, and if confirmed by science, in spite of all
the opposition and competition you may meet with,
I have not the least doubt but the tenantry of East-
Lothian will remain the same skilful agriculturists
that they have been acknowledged to be for the last
hundred years."

The nobleman who oflered this advice to his
brother farmers was subsequently himself brought
under the notice of the meeting, as " one of the
most eminent and successful agriculturists of the
day."

We confess that v/e could wish to have seen the
tenantry reported at a little more length than our
friend the " North British Agriculturist " has
thought proper to allow them. In lack, however,
of what they may have said for themselves, we
must be content with what was said for them, and
well said, by Lord Elcho, the vice-chairman of the
day : — " Their fame extended wherever agriculture
was practised as a science. The names of Rennie,
of Bogue, of Howden, of V^^'alker, and of Brodie,
were known throughout Great Britain as those who
had ever been the pioneers of agricultural improve-
ment, and as those v/ho, by their energy and
high character, had raised the agriculturists of East
Lothian to the position which they had so long
held. The character of the tenantry of East Lo-
thian, he believed, now stood as high as it ever did,
and he saw many before him who were the worthy
successors of the eminent agriculturists whom he
had named. It would be presumptuous in one not
a practical farmer to give any advice to the tenantry
of this county, but they had already heard the ad-
vice given them from the chair as to the exertions
which it would be necessary for them to make in
order to maintain the position which they had at-
t:iuicd in the van of agriculturalimprovement ; and
he might be permitted as croupier of this m^eeting
to indorse what had fallen from the chairman in
this respect. No man who travelled through the
country could fail to observe that everywhere in
England there were signs of an improved and im-
proving system of agriculture in existence. All
this showed the need of exertion here ; but, for his
part, he had no fear of the result, for he knew what

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

4i;

the energy, perseverance, and skill of the farmers
of this county could do ; and he might mention
that he was credibly informed, as a proof of their
being aware of the necessity of increased exertion,
and as to the necessity of their adopting the latest
mechanical improvements, that the tenantry of
East Lothian had already taken more reaping ma-
chines than the whole of the rest of Scotland."

All this is fair enough. No one can object to
any display of national feeUng so becomingly ex-
pressed ; while none of us can dissent to the terms
of a competition, in which " energy, skill, and per-
severance " are laid down for us as the great es-
sentials to success. Lord Elcho attributes the
proud pre-eminence of the Lothians, as so far
maintained, to the old recipe — " The character of
the agriculture of this country was in a great
measure owing to the independent position of the
tenantry, secured to them by their leases. He
knew that in England the system of leases was
viewed with little favour ; but he was confident it
was greatly owing to the system which here pre-
vailed so generally that Scotland, and especially
East Lothian, occupied that high position which
it did."

We should have been pleased to have seen Mr.
Christopher, one of the Members for Lincolnshire
(who was present), follow this up, with a word to the
action of that principle which has done so much
for the farming of his own county, too, by es-
tablishing " the independent position of the
tenantry." We care not whether it be attained by*
the use of a lease or a custom ; but in this we have
long agreed with Lord Elcho, that good farming
can never be insured without insuring the inde-
pendent position of the farmer.

Notwithstanding the eflforts recently made in
some quarters to attach ridicule to the toast
whenever it is offered on this side of the border,
"The health of the labourer" was not amongst those
omitted at Haddington. It fell to the same noble
lord we have just quoted, who, in proposing it, did
not by any means endeavour to cloak the weakest
point of Scotch farming, the home of the working
man : — " Much of their success as an agricultural
community was due to the patient, enduring, sober
habits, and to the skill and physical capabilities of
the agricultural labourer. He believed none were
more anxious for the welfare of that class than
those who were connected with them in the capacity
of employers. There was a story related of the
late Mr. Howden, who, when examined before a
committee of the House of Commons, was asked
what was the condition of the agricultural labourers
in East Lothian, and whether they were tolerably
comfortable. His reply, be believed, was, ' Yes ;
generally speaking, they are comfortable. They

have mostly a good razor, a good cow, and a good
wiie.' Now, undoubtedly, these were most essen-
tial ingredients to human happiness ; but since
that time, civihzation had made great strides, and
they were now of opinion that they must add to
these requisites what was no less necessary to his
comfort and well-being—a good cottage. He
feared that many of the cottages of our agricultural
labourers were not in the condition they would wish
them to be — not in a condition which contributed
to health and morality. But when an evil was ac-
knowledged it was more than half cured. An
association had been formed for the purpose of
improving the dwellings of the agricultural la-
bourers of Scotland ; and he trusted that while
every proprietor would deem it his first duty to see
that there was not a bad cottage on his estate, they
would not, in attending to the physical comfort and
well-being of the labourer, neglect his moral or in-
tellectual cultivation, but would at the same time
endeavour to extend the means of giving him and
his children the benefit of a sound moral and reli-
gious education."

We have thus traced out the tone and spirit of
this meeting with much pleasure, and, as we trust,
with some advantage. It may set many right as to
the position our Scotch friends really lay claim to.
We must repeat, however, that we should like to
have heard more from the tenantry themselves ;
at the same time we must gdmit that they were
worthily represented by those who spoke for them.
We ask no more.

THE POTATO MARKET, KING'S CROSS.— Going up
York-road, face northward, we meet a succession of waggons,
spring carts, costermongers' barrows, and market vans of all
varieties — the horses at a walk or a trot according to the
weight of loading, but all loaded with one article. This
article is the potato, in its several varieties of " regents,"
" cups," " blues," or " reds," from the districts in which it
delights to grow, most of them but newly opened to the
London market by the Great Northern Railway. Bedford-
shire has its light fertile loam, in which the potato grows to
perfection about Biggleswade, Sandy, and Potton. The car-
riage hither is 7s. and 73. 6d. per ton. Huntingdon and St.
Neots send a contribution from their best soils. Peter-
borough a few, Lincoln and district contribute liberally. But
the largest supplies come from Yorkshire through the Selby
Railway, and from the Qoole and Howden districts. Rates
of carriage ISs. to ISs. per ton. The next districts north of
York which contribute noticeable qualities are the Dunbar and
North Berwick red sandstone soils, in the county oi Had-
dington, Scotland. The carriage from thence to London is
*30s. per ton; last year it was 353. As many as three hun-
dred tons a day arrive, and are sold at this market, though on
some days not so many. The season for a full business in
north country potatoes has hardly yet set in. The finest qua-
lities from Scotland do not begin to come up until November,
or between that ancl Christmas, It is alleged that were the

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THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

rates of carriage lower, say SOs. per ton from Scotland, aud
proportionately from the great potato districts of Yorkshire,
this would become the chief potato market ia London. It is
the second now. Tooley-street market, supplied by sea, is
first. The freight by sea from Yorkshire is 9s., and from

Scotland ISs. and 14s. per ton. It is said that, owing to the
lower prices and greater abundance of the article this season
as compared with 1853 and spring of 1851, the buyers in
the north must resort to the cheaper, though slower, transit
by sea, unless the railway companies make some concession.

MR. CAIRD AND HIS FACTS

Our readers, we believe, will not think tlie time
and space thrown away which we have lately de-
voted to Mr. Caird's extraordinary statement at
Tiptree, as to the making of twenty-five tons of
dried hay off a Scotch acre of land. In his own
emphatic words, given with all the confidence and
authority of one fully acquainted with the truth of
what he was saying, " it was no use our doubting—
the tiling has been doneP' As,however, all who heard
it then, or heard of it subsequently, continued to
something more than doubt, it became a duty to
ascertain, if possible, how it had been accomphshed.
Mr. Caird was content at the time with the bare an-
nouncement of its having been accomplished, and
of liquid manure having been the grand agent in
effecting it. When further pressed for something
a little more in detail, he followed this up with an
" explanation" altogether so vague and unsatisfac-
tory, that it really became necessary to ask the
favour of a word or^wo from the gentleman him-
self who had achieved this wonder.

In seeking this, we are forewarned that we must
not expect to find any hay at all. The farmer who
had been picturing to himself an almost indefinite
increase of stacks, is brought to understand that
this part of the story is scarcely so clear or tan-
gible as he might have wished. When Mr. Caird
said, in plain English, that " the thing had been
done," that twenty-five tons of dried hay per acre
had been made in Scotland, he said what in reality
never has been done. The gentleman upon whose
authority he spoke, we are assured, never makes
hay. We thus lose at once that direct' proof,
without which so startling a statement should never
have been ventured upon. Let us take it, hov/-
ever, as " the fact" should have been properly put
in the first instance, and understand Mr. Caird to
say that, instead oi having been done it might have
been done — that is, sufficient Italian rye-grass to
have been grown in one season to make twenty-
five tons of dried hay.

Mr. Caird assures the agriculturists of England
this is the fact, and that Mr. Telfer of Ayr has ac-
complished it. Strangely silent for some time on
the subject, we are at length compelled to ask the
latter, in the name of the farmers of England, for
his confirmation, or answer to the statement. We

give it in our paper of to-day. Putting aside at
once the general misapprehension or diversity of
opinion " in regard to the quantity of grass re-
quired to make a ton of hay," we will keep our-
selves as closely as possible to the facts of the case.
Mr. Caird then says Mr. Telfer made, or might have
made, twenty-five tons of dried hay per Scotch
acre. Mr. Telfer says, in the only really tangible
paragraph of a not very satisfactory letter : — " The
facts stated to Mr. Caird were to the effect that
my operations had been so successful that the cut-
tings had reached sixty-five tons per Scotch acre,
which, according to my experience in Italian rye-
grass haymaking, were equivalent to twenty tons of
hay."

Now, just to begin with, the slight difference of
five tons of dried hay per acre may be a matter of
very little consideration to a gentleman of so san-
guine a temperament as Mr. Caird. It is some-
thing, nevertheless, we can assure him, to such,
matter-of-fact men as those to whom he addressed
4nmself, Many of them would be quite content
with the five tons only ; and certainly, making the
best of it, there is something a little more wonder-
ful in that extra five tons an acre. " Dash it ! they
say they made five-and-twenty tons of hay an
acre," exclaims John Bull in amazement. "No,
no, only twenty tons," interrupts Sawney in cor-
rection. " Well, twenty tons or five-and-twenty
tons, it don't much signify," says Mr. Caird.
"Well, I suppose it don't," says Mr. Bull.

Did Mr. Telfer make five-and-twenty tons of dried
hay per Scotch acre ? He did not. Did he grow
sufficient grass to make it ? He did not. " What
we want are facts," down even to such a fraction as
five or six tons an acre.

But this, we repeat it, is altogether making the
best of it. A correspondent, whose letter we pub-
lished a fortnight since, considers Mr. Telfer does
not grow more grass than would produce eleven
tons of hay per acre. Another correspondent,
whose letter follows Mr. Telfer's in our paper of
to-day, goes clearly against a high calculation being
made in reference to this kind of dried hay crop.
We insert this letter the more readily, as the writer
honestly admits his own sympathies to be with Mr.
Caird, Mr. Mechi, and that school, at the same

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

415

time that he enjoys considerable experience of the
chmate to which Mr. Caird refers in his " explana-
tion." It will be found how httle even these two
are inclined to agree. One piece of advice from
him we earnestly recommend to the consideration
of his friends. Let "Mr. Telfer, Mr. Kennedy,
and Mr. Caird propose a gathering in Ayrshire, so
as to afford parties an opportunity of judging for
themselves, and thus establishing the success of
the practice of the North upon a solid foundation."
Let us know how many acres Mr. Telfer has an-
nually devoted to the development of this profitable
occupation. Let us have the size of his "plots,"
and a little further information, for another corres-
pondent, " Vindex," as to how he accomplishes so
much by the first of July. The important commu-
nications from Mr. " Beale Brown" and " Agri-
culturist," which will also be found in our columns
of this day, must be considered as speaking for
themselves, without requiring further comment
from us. The cry is still "impossible!" Of one
thing we are quite sure, in thus leaving the matter
for the present, that it will require far more "expla-
nation" than any it has yet received, before it will
gain much credit for any of those chiefly interested
in its discussion.

Just a word more, in place here. In recording the
extraordinary statement made by Mr. Caird, at Tip-
tree, we were not content with our own impression as
to its effect. We availed ourselves, on the contrary,
of the reports of such of our contemporaries as
were published in time for us to do so. Those,
then, who followed the speaker detailed that this
wonderful story was received with derisive cries of
"Oh ! oh ! " " and laughter ;" while we added, from
a summary of the day's doings in the Gardeners^
Chronicle, that " it was not believed, in consequence
of being too abruptly announced."

In commenting on " the explanation " of Mr.
Caird, as so lately afforded us, we had occasion to
quote our own remarks at the time " the fact" was
first proclaimed, embodying in the extract the bor-
rowed matter from other papers, as already referred
to. The Gardeners^ Chronicle of last week, in an
article on this subject, declares that it never said
anything of the kind— or, at least, that the words
we gave were not to be found in its columns. We
could have wished that in place of a vague con-
tradiction the Chronicle had been good enough to
go a little farther, and to show its readers what
really was said, and how strangely we had perverted
the sense of it. May we now be allowed to do what
a sense of justice should have prompted our con-
temporary to have done when penning his indignant
and very curious denial.

The Gardeners' Chronicle, in its account of the

Tiptree gathering, says, truly enough, that " Mr.
Caird electrified the company in his address after
dinner, by an announcement to the above eflfect" —
the notorious crop of dry hay, to wit. From this
the report diverges to one of Captain Basil Hall's
traveller's tales, which the gallant author provided
with some pages of prologue before he ventured to
tell it ! With such a precedent, the Chronicle
could have wished the traveller's tale at Tiptree
" had been illustrated and argued in like manner,
instead of being abruptly announced ; for it was
not believed."

In adapting this to the sentence in which it was
introduced, we merely transposed the words — " It
was not believed, in consequence of being too ab-
ruptly announced." And yet for this is it that we are
subject to the elaborate correction of our contem-
porary, for " words which are not to be found in his
columns." We beg to say, they are to be found in
his columns, or so triflingly altered as in no way to
impair the meaning they were originally intended
to convey. We challenge the Gardeners' Chronicle,
or any man who will undertake to read the article
in question, to say that we have in any way mis-
represented him. If his words have any mean-
ing, it is that we have given to them. The story
was not believed ; it might have been, thinks the
Chronicle, had it not been too abruptly announced ;
or, the story was not believed, in consequence of
being too abruptly announced ! We venture
to suggest to the Gardeners' Chronicle that split-
ting straws in this way is scarcely worthy of so
respectable a journal j and further, that when
making a serious charge against any one, it would
be better to bring it to something more definite
than vague inuendo. If either have been misre-
presented in this instance, it has been ourselves,
when the Gardeners' Chronicle wishes its readers
to understand that we have perverted the sense of
what we quoted from its columns. Luckily we have
the facts of the case to go upon, and with them
we can afford to give any such kind impression
as that wished to be conveyed, the most direct
contradiction.

As to the assertion of our object being to damage
the reputation of Mr. Caird as an "agricultural
teacher," we have only to say that we might have
accomplished this far more effectually by leaving
him and his statement without a word to the pubhc.
Mr. Caird told his " pupils" something they never
for a moment beheved — something which no one
ever volunteered to corroborate, and that, conse-
quently, was only the more ridiculed the more it
v/as considered. We question the value of a
" teacher", who commands neither the respect nor
the credit of his scholars ; and we so believe that
we are only doing him a service when we urge upon

416

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

hiin to place liiinseif if yuaaible iu a more satis-
factory position.

TO THE EDITOR OP THE MARK LANE EXPRESS.

b.:i, — My attention has been directed to your leading
article of the 25th ult., in which you appeal to me for
the facts sta.l°d to Mr. Caird about the acreable produce
of my Italian r > '^-grass. I have much pleasure in com-
plying with your request.

The facts stated to Mr. Caird were given to explain
and confirm Mr. Kennedy's results, and were to the
effect that my operations had been so successful that
the cuttings had reached 65 tons per Scotch acre, which,
according to my experience in Italian rye-grass hay-
making, were equivalent to 20 tons of hay.

There appears to be a general misapprehension in re-
gard to the quantity of grass required to make a ton of
hay.

In one of my trials, 3 tons of grass gave 20 cwt, 1 qr.
12 lb. of hay, which would make the 65 tons equal to
22 tons 1 cwt. 81b.

In an experiment by Mr. Dickenson, reported in the
Journal of the Royal Agricultural Society of England,
vol. viii. part 2, it was found that 12 tons 8 cwt. of
grass gave 5 tons 18 cwt. of hay. This considerably
exceeds the proportion stated in the above experiment.

But the correct way of ascertaining the proportions
is by chemical analysis. Professor Way found that hay
contained 16 per cent, of moisture. He also found that
Italian rye-grass grown on the College Farm at Ciren-
cester contained 75 per cent, of moisture. From these
analyses, it appears that about 3^ tons of grass should
give 1 ton of hay.

An analysis of Professor Anderson of Italian rye-
grass grown in Cunning Park this season showed that it
contained 74 per cent, of moisture. This agrees very
closely with my experiments in hay-making.

This season has been unusually favourable for the
growth of Italian rye-grass. By the end of this month,
my cuttings will much exceed 65 tons per Scotch acre.
I think it proper, however, to state that these results are
not obtained without liberal applications of manure. I
apply to each Scotch acre during the season 25 cwt. of
Peruvian guano, which is washed into the ground with
the liquid of 10 cows diluted with 500 tons of water.

In an experiment made this year, with the view of
ascertaining whether the growth of Italian rye-grass was
due to ammonia alone, a quantity of gas- water, con-
taining 1,940 grains per gallon of ammonia, was applied
to a plot of Italian rye-grass in spring, and on the 17th
of May a portion was cut and weighed, in the presence
of several agricultural friends. The produce amounted
to 22 tons 10 cwt. per Scotch acre. Another portion,
which was left till the 31st of May, reached 27 tons 10
cwt., which, by Professor Anderson's analysis, is equi-
valent to upwards of 8 tons of hay.

I am, sir, &c., &c.,

A. B. Telfer.

Cunning Park, Ayr, N. B., Oct. 3.

Sir,— The Tiptree-Ayrshire Italian ryegrass con-

troversy, is, if I mistake not, being allowed to shift
its grounds, and intrench itself, like Russia on the
Dunubian Principalities lately, on those it has no right to
occupy; for the question at issue is a crop o/20 or 25 tons
of liay per acre CMniiaUy, and not the old cuckoo-song
of " agricultural impossibilities." " Mr. Telfer annually
grows in Ayrshire 20 tons of Italian ryegrass hay per
imperial acre, or 25 per Scotch acre." Such are the
facts of the case, as stated by Mr. Caird, at the Tiptree
Hall gathering of July last. Mr. Mechi, according to
the further reports of the same meeting, not only
teaches landlords and tenants by precept to ignore
the profitless routine of antiquated times, but also
by example, thus placing science and practice, as
they should be, in matrimonial alliance. In the case
of Italian ryegrass he is rather unfortunate this
year ; but where Tiptree practice falls short, Ayrshire
theory superabounds, thus leaving him at no loss to
show how both may fill their pockets in a very short
time. The taught, however, who can only grow two
tons of hay per acre, and who see little better before
them, feel rather disposed to " beware of amateur theo-
rists," so that the teacher is again in danger ; but
Fortune, ever favourable to the brave, rusiies to his
assistance with the astounding announcement, " It's no
use doubting the statement, gentlemen; the thing's
been done. Twenty-five ions of hay have been
growny There is nothing ambiguous here — nothing re-
quiring explanation. The question is a plain one, and
its solution manifest ; for if Mr. Mechi cannot grow 20
tons of hay per acre next year, to exemplify his liquid
manure theory, .he must remove his standard to Ayr-
shire, or the instruction he affords will again be ranked
with that of the peripatetic school, as it has been this
year, for in modern times experimental philosophy can
only be successfully taught.

There are many things possible, and even profitable,
which are nevertheless not done — a proposition as ap-
plicable to every other class as to agriculturists. It may
be perfectly possible for the farmers of Ayrshire to
grow 25 tons of hay per Scotch acre, for example ; and
yet they may not do it. An individual amateur among
them may even have grown this imprecedentedly large
crop ; yet that is no reason why the public should be-
lieve it, until the fact is authenticated in the usual
manner by which it has been found necessary to esta-
blish applied science on a solid foundation, in connexion
with every branch of industry. The liquid manure
practice of Messrs. Mechi, Telfer, and others, now
undergoing the ordeal of introductory probation, cannot
be admitted as an exception from a rule so expedient,
and even absolutely necessary, as this. Nay, more :
such farmers labour under a very serious disadvantage,
from their being merely amateurs, experience having
established the fact that their experiments are but too
frequently unworthy of credence, and of which farmers
more especially have just reason to beware.

But this is not all; for the practice of amateur
farmers is not only subject to revisal, but the individual
practice of the one condemns that of the other. Mr.
Mechi's Italian ryegrass, for instance, in the warmer

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

4i:

climate of Essex, is a comparative failure under the
liquid manure system ; while that of Mr. Telfer, in the
colder climate of Ayrshire, is superabundant. This is
plausibly accounted for by Mr. Caird, from the dripping
sky of the latter (? !). But are we to understand from
this that the liquid manure is better adapted for the
cold, wet climate of our northern isles, where " it
rains for ever," than for the southern provinces of Eng-
land, which suffer so frequently from the want of more
liquid ? or are we to condemn Tiptree practice ? The
former would, no doubt, suit the Ayrshire amateur (Mr.
Telfer), in his present predicament ; but does it suit the
parched soil of our southern provinces ?

I have, individually, always supported the general
conduct of Mr. Mechi and Mr. Caird, believing
that both, to the best of their abilities, have heartily
espoused the cause of agricultural progress ; but,
however anxious otherwise to do so, I positively
cannot append my approbation to the Utopian manner
they, along with Mr. Telfer and some others, are
now treating a topic of so much national importance
as that of the liquid manure system. I not only
admit, but have always maintained, that it was the duty
of every farmer to follow a good example when shown
him, provided it was applicable, of course, to his own
peculiar case. I even go farther, by admitting that
some of the most profitable lessons I have learned
during my experience of nearly half a century, have
been from total failures. I therefore conclude that
farmers ought to profit both from Mr. Mechi's successes
and failures, and consequently have no right either to
ridicule the one or the other ; but his success in the
crop in question this year was not exemplary, and there-
fore the practical question which ought to have occupied
every useful mind was, the reason why ? and not to have
taken imaginary possession of the classic soil of Ayr,
where

" Fays, spankies, kelpies, a' they can explain them,
And even the very de'ils they brawly ken them."

A course which left no alternative but force the 25 ton
bolus down the throat of the practical man, although
unwilling to swallow it otherwise — aye, even in the
absence of the bolus itself ! It will be high time to call
upon him to swallow such a pill when once he gets it.
This may no doubt be said to savour too much of scep-
ticism; but an example from the manufacturing world
will show the contraiy, viz., what would the Royal
Agricultural Society and the Commissioners of the Ex-
hibition of 1851 have said of our American friends had
they merely told us, without further evidence, that they
had reaping-machines which would cut down our harvest
fields, and insist, with all the Yankee suavity peculiar
to the far West, that they were consequently entitled to
that degree of merit and applause conferred upon them
by an opposite line of conduct ? And yet this is the
very line of policy which the introducers of the liquid
manure system are now following. They will have us
believe in their own amateur propositions before prac-
tically demonstrated before us — conduct nowhere to be
met with in the whole industrial system ; conduct which
neither can be approved of nor palliated in the slightest

degree. Had Mr. Telfei-, Mr. Kennedy, and Mr. Caird
proposed a gathering in Ayrshire, so as to afford parties
an opportunity of judging for themselves — thus estab-
lishing the success of the practice of the North upon a
solid foundation — how differently would it have been
taken ?

This state of things is the more to be regretted from
the importance of the field thus, in a great measure,
misoccupied. Amateurs, for example, never had such an
opportunity before them of making themselves useful to
the countiy ; and yet is the fact not notorious that half
their conduct ivill not bear investigation, tohile they
have not even taken the trouble to put the other ha/fin
a proper shape to be credited by the public, or afford
that information which otherwise it is calculated to give,
if all be true which they themselves say. If Mr. Telfer,
for instance, has been growing 20 tons of hay per acre,
why did not he take the proper steps to bring such
results practically before the public, instead of theoreti-
cally, as he has in the long run prematurely done ?

Over- wise is dangerous, more so probably than
any other extreme. Mr. Caird, for instance, accuses
others of being in the opposite scale of " limited know-
ledge;" but the accusation is much more applicable to
himself, as his letter of explanation proves; for
it is not only premature, but erroneous in doctrine.
Before he again proposes to pull the mote out of a
brother's eye, it would be well for him to revise his
notions of the grass-growing rainy weather of Ayr-
shire ; for during my stay there, on more occasions than
one when farming in the North, I had good reason to
conclude that something more than half the quantity
which fell did harm — a conclusion generally acquiesced
in. Were we to take the rain-gauge as an index to
grass-growing fertility, we should lose our Highland
shelties among the long grass of Orcadia, where " it
rains for ever." A warm moist climate is no doubt
more favourable to grass growing than a dry one; but a
warm moist climate and a rainy one are two different
things ; for I have farmed extensively in both, and can
therefore speak from experience. Ayrshire dare not
compete even with the drained portion of Plumstead
Marsh in grass growing, or anything else, naturally or
artificially, with all her moist climate; and I may safely
say England generally, letting alone her moist and warm
climates of Devon, Somersetshire, and Cheshire. Scotch
farmers, as a body, are too sensible of the disadvantages
they labour under, both as to soil, climate, and produce,
animal and vegetable, to entertain a contrary opinion :
and the more artificial the South becomes, the further the
North must inevitably fall behind , so essential is heat to ve-
getation when accompanied with a sufficiency of bottom
moistttre — a sufficiency which I deny to be an agri-
cultural impossibility, on the part of Mr. Mechi, to
supply by art, as Mr. Caird obviously assumes in his
letter of explanation. Moreover, on the necessary prac-
tical inquiry being made, it will be found that agricul-
tural impossibilities lie at the door of our traducers, and
not ours ; for experience has shown it an agricultural
impossibility beyond question for Mr. Mechi to make
the thing pay — to show his balance-sheet — to grow 20

418

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

tons of hay in an Essex climate, &c. ; and even where
this fortune-making crop has been grown, it is yet
doubtful whether it will be possible or not to show it to
the English farmer.

Our native breeds of cattle have generally, and justly,
been taken as a true index to the grass-growing fertility
of the soil in its natural state ; and when we compare
the oxen and sheep of the west coast, from the Hebrides
to Cornwall, with those of the east coast, from Caithness
to Romney Marsh, facts speak for themselves.

With regard to the quality of the grass for agricultu-
ral purposes, that grown on the low lands of the west
appears better adapted for the produce of milk than
butcher-meat ; hence the famed dairies of Devonshire,
Somersetshire, Cheshire, and Ayrshire. This, no doubt,
arises from its containing a larger per-centage of water
than that of the east, as in Lincolnshire, the marshesof the
Thames, &c., better adapted for feeding, with probably a
slight difference in some of the other constituents. It is
also possible that some of the plants peculiar to moist cli-
mates may conduce medicinally to the secretion of milk ;
and that the influence of this moisture will also affect
the skin. We cannot say, however, from experience
that our cows when farming in the moist climate of the
west gave more milk than when farming on the eastern
coast, as in Essex, but the contrary; for although milk
cows require more water than fatting stock, that is
easily supplied by art ; so that the reason why the west
has adopted dairy husbandry appears to be that the
grass contains too much water for fattening.

This extra quantity of water renders the grass of the
west not so well adapted for making into hay, more
especially when it contains a large quantity of crowfoot,
buttercups, and plants of this kind, which luxuriate in
moist climates and soils, containing a much larger per-
centage of water than even the grass itself. A ton of
grass in Ayrshire, for instance, will return a less weight
of hay than a ton of grass in Essex ; and the difference
will very much depend upon the kinds of plants the soil
produces. A ton of green buttercups, like that of
clover or tares, for instance, will not yield a large per-
centage of hay.

Italian rye-grass, however, is an artificial product ;
and therefore, uiider the liquid manure system, is not
likely to be infested with many weeds of this kind.
It will, however, contain a larger per-centage of
water, which will be in proportion to the stage of growth
at which it is cut. When cut three times, for feeding
cows or other stock in-doors, each cutting must of
necessity be commenced early ; so that the per-centage
at this stage will be very great, but decreasing daily
until finished.

The weight of hay per acre when thus cut for feeding
is a result, it will readily be perceived, which is not very
easily ascertained with that degree of accuracy necessary
to estimate the true value of the liquid manure practice ;
for the cutting of every day would have to be carefully
weighed, while the dews and

" Heavy, dark, continued a' day rains"

of Ayrshire would have to be deducted. In making hay
at one cutting of common rye-grass, with a fair mixture

of clover, I used to calculate on one ton of the former
from three of the latter ; but it is only a rough mode of
guessing, although near enough to give one an idea of
how much hay he might have from a field. Appended
will be found the analysis of Dr. Voelcker (Professor of
Chemistry, Royal Agricultural College, Cirencester) of
Italian rye-grass, extracted from the " Quarterly Journal
of Agriculture," which will enable your readers to make
more correct calculations if they desire. Well-made
hay, for keeping green, may contain about fourteen per
cent, of water, but is frequently stacked with more.

What farmers stand most in need of, at present, are
the facts of the case — the agricultural statistics of the
liquid manure practice now being introduced in all their
instructive details, in order to enable them to judge for
themselves. In the olden time, the will of the lord was
the law of the manor. But those iron times are gone, and
the yeomanry of England will now think and judge for
themselves ; and who has a right to deny them the privi-
lege ? I am, Mr. Editor,

Your obedient servant, B.

Italian Rye-grass (Lolium Italicum).
A. — Water and Ash Determinations.

I. II. Mean.

Per centage of water 81"09 80-45

Ditto aah 1-90 197

Ditto ash in dry plant 10'04 10-07

B. — Composition in 100 parts.

Natural State. Dried at 212" F.

Water.... 80-77 —

Portion soluble in water : —

a. Organic substances .. . 6-29 32'97

h. Inorganic substances «

(ash) 0-82 4-00

Portion insoluble in water : —

a. Vegetable fibre 10-96 5699

h. Inorganic matters (ash) 1-16 6-04

80-77

1-98

1005

Per-centage of nitrogen. .
Protein compounds . „ . .

100-00
0-457
2-861

10000

2-38

14-87

C. — Constituents arranged in groups.

Natural State. Dried at 212« F

Water 80-770 —

Nitrogenized substances
(flesh-forming consti-
tuents) 2-861 14-87

Substances not containing
nitrogen, lieat and fat-
producing substances 14-389 75-09
Inorganic matters (ash). . 1-980 10-04

100-000

100-00

Sir, — I have read with interest the leading articles, as
well as the letters, that have from time to time appeared
in your paper upon the subject of the observations made
by Mr. Caird at Mr. Mechi's late gathering ; but none
of them have obtained my notice to the extent of the
leader of the agricultural portion of the Gardeners'
Chronicle and Agncultural Gazette of Saturday last,
wherein the editor, in the article alluded to, steps
forward as the champion of Mr. Caird, and treats
the discussion that has taken place in your paper, as
well as in those of your contemporaries, as being
carried on with the view of " damaging the reputa-

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

419

tioa of Mr. Caird as au agricultural teacher ;" and states
that you " seem disposed to fasten upon Mr. Caird a
responsibility which really rests upon other shoulders."
I have inquired of persons who were present at Mr.
Mechi's gathering, and I have examined those of the
reports given in the papers published at Colchester and
Chelmsford, in the county wherein the meeting took
place, and all of them agree in that portion of the state-
ment made by Mr. Caird, that 25 tons of dry hay had
been made from one acre of land in that season, and
that the gentleman was present who had accomplished
such a marvellous achievement. As to the fact, there-
fore, of this statement having been made, there can be
no doubt whatever ; and then it was followed up by the
further statement of Mr. Caird, in corroboration, by
giving the proportion of live stock and sheep thai could
be maintained in Essex and in Scotland upon an equal
quantity of land so managed — leaving not the slightest
doubt that the assertion, to the full extent as reported,
was uttered then and there by Mr. Caird. If Mr.
Caird had been a stranger to the agricultural com-
munity, little notice would have attached to such a
statement at such a meeting — notorious for marvellous
announcements. But as Mr. Caird had on various oc-
casions set himself up not only as an agricultural
teacher, but had published a book, showing that high
farming and great profits were synonymous, as cause
and effect, operating to produce invariably like results,
the whole attention of the agricultural, as well as
the would-be agricultural community, was directed
to his statement; and the endeavour to ob-
tain from him an explanation was not made,
as the Editor of the Gazette states, to " damage his
agricultural reputation," but to set both him and the
public right upon a question of such importance, and
which, upon a pecuniary consideration, is a question of
from four to five hundred per cent, upon the acreable
produce of Italian rye-grass in England and Scotland.
As Mr. Telfer was present, he ought undoubtedly to
have either corroborated the statement made by Mr.
Caird, or to have set that gentleman right if labouring
under some misconception of the facts related to him.

Mr. Caird has at length supplied his explanation, in
confirmation of his first statement ; and his mode of
clearing up his point is really amusing for its ingenuity
and sophistry. But I fear it places him in a worse
light than his assertion had placed him in the first
instance ; for all that his letter supplies mystifies his
previous deductions, or leaves those inexperienced in
agricultural proceedings to take it for granted that
what he had in the first instance asserted was correct,
except that the grass had not been actually converted
into dry hay, as at first stated, although it was sufficient
in quantity to have allowed it to have been efi'ected.

Allowing him to have been in the first instance
speaking of the produce of an acre Scotch — which is
about equivalent to 1^ acres English — he very properly
reduces the quantity produced to 20 tons per statute
acre, as the quantity of dry hay that this crop would
have realized.

I am- unfortunately unable at this instant to put my

hand upon any papers by which I can ascertain the re-
lative weight of grass and hay, or of the produce of grain
crops cut in a green state, as compared with their weight
of straw when dried. My opinion however, practically
deduced, is that a full crop of wheat cut twenty-eight
days before being fully ripe would weigh about 8 tons
per acre, and the straw when harvested about 2 tons. A
heavy crop of grass would probably weigh 8 tons, and
the produce in dry hay be It^- to 2 tons.

Upon the first introduction of Italian rye-grass into
this country, I had a bushel sown by way of experiment.
The soil was a deep alluvial one, adjoining the river j
and the land was, independent of being in a high state
of cultivation, fallowed and treated exactly as for tur-
nips, and also heavily . manured. The autumn
and spring being moist, the result was astonishing
as to the bulk produced ; and on the 28th of
May it was weighed, and found to be 1191bs. per
square rod, or 8-^ tons per acre, the seed-stems
then having attained the height of from 62 to 7
feet. At that time my crop of rye, of the early broad-
leaf variety, was in greatest perfection, and had eared
fully out, being somewhat taller than the tallest of the
Italian rye-grass. Two or three experiments by weigh-
ing were made, and the largest weight produced was
about two tons per acre more than of the Italian
grass, being at the rate of 1471bs. to the square rod.
Other experiments were made upon broad-leaf or red
clover, lucerne, vetches, &c., theresult of which I some-
where have, and hope to be able to subjoin in a marginal
note. The result, however, in neither instance was
equal to that of the rye or of the Italian grass.

Perhaps some of your correspondents can supply the
dift'erence in weight betwixt grass, clover, and the straw
of cereal crops when cut green, and when afterwards
dried for hay and fodder : so far as my experience en-
ables me to estimate them, the waste by drying will be
fully equal to three-fourths of the gross weight obtained
when cut in a green state. In that proportion, 10 tons
of rye-grass would produce 2\ tons of dry hay, and three
cuttings of that weight might produce altogether 10 tons
of dry hay per acre ; but how three cuttings of produce
of that weight could be realized before the expiration of
the month of July, rests with Mr. Caird to explain: in
my opinion only two cuttings of rye-grass having the
seed stems fully grown could be obtained ; and my
second cutting this season having just commenced
when Mr. Caird made his statement corroborates that
opinion.

I should not iiave ventured to have troubled
you with this lengthy statement, had it not been,
as you state, for the elucidation of a fact. I
have given you some actual experiments, made
without reference to this statement : and I have no he-
sitation in stating that I do not consider it possible to
produce 30 tons of Italian ryegrass from a single acre of
land, in one season, previous to the last day of July,
in any one year, with all advantages and appliances,
without regard to cost, that any experimentalist may
choose to avail himself of ; and that not even ten ions
of dry hay could under any circumstances be obtained

I' r

420

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

previously to that date, or in the space of one entire
summer and autumn.

That Mr. Caird should assert that double that quan-
tity was produced, and afterwards address a letter in
corroboration of that assertion, is to me a subject upon
which I will not venture to express my opinion ; but
let him not treat those who cry out " Impossible ! " so
contemptuously, nor let his supporters challenge others
who deny his statements as doing so to damage his agri-
cultural reputation. The statement being one of fact
can surely be proved, and, if incapable of proof, may
be tested by future experiments.

I am, Sir, equally desirous as yourself to elucidate
the truth. We unfortunately have, from time to time,
had such startling announcements made upon agricul-
tural production, that we almost doubt whether we may
be farming under the same influence of climate, or, I
may say, in the same planet.

I am. Sir, your obedient servant,

ViNDEX.

to THE EDITOR OF THE MARK LANE EXPRESS.

Sir, — I am unjustly attacked in the Gardeners^
Chronicle, and I enclose you a copy of the letter I have
sent them. In future, I shall order your paper instead
of theirs. Will you kindly insert the letter in your
paper, as a copy of the letter I sent to the editor of the
Gardeners^ Chronicle ? p am, sir, yours, &c.,

T. BEALE BROWNE.

Dullin, Oct. 7.
"to the editor of the gardeners' chronicle.

" Sir,— I took your paper to read in the train to
Holyhead, and I am much hurt to see you adopt the
wild statements of Mr. Caird.

" I had always looked up to you as an agricultural
authority. I now cease to have any confidence in you.

" I should have stopped Mr. Caird in his impossible
statements had it not been for the respect I have for our
friend Mechi, not wishing to have an unpleasant discus-
sion at his hospitable board.

" Afterwards I expressed indignation at such mis-
statements being made, when a Scotchman defended Mr.
Caird (I suppose Mr. Telfer), and said it was perfectly
true 25 tons had been made and dried at three cuttings ;
" whsn I showed that if such crops were grown they could
never be dried in that climate. He said, the hay- making
machine was frequently moving it. I then exclaimed —
" This settles the matter, for no hay-making machine
ever invented would move half such a crop.'

" Now, sir, I should have liked you better if you had
tnentioned my name when you attacked me.

" I am prepared to stake my agricultural reputation
of many years' standing as to the impossibility of Mr.
Caird's assertions, and to appeal to the practical agricul-
tural world whether it would be possible, three times
before the end of July, to dry such crops if they were
ever grown.

'' I consider such statements as most wicked, and your
adopting them as most damaging to an agricultural
leader. " I am, sir, yours, &c.,

" T. BEALE BROWNE,
" Of Hamfen, Gloucestershire."

TO THE EDITOR OF THE MARK LANE EXPRESS.

Sir, — Your having this morning, with the view of
affording me an opportunity for explanation, favoured me
with the perusal of a letter from Mr. Telfer, of Gunning
Park, Ayrshire, in which he lays claim to the producing
of more Italian ryegrass per acre than would be equiva-
lent to only 1 1 tons of dried hay — the quantity I gave
him credit for in my letter to you of the 25th ult.— I
suppose I must abandon that quantity as his maximum
produce. A few tons more or less, however, in the
quantity of grass, and its estimated equivalent of
hay, is of minor importance as compared with the
fact of Mr. Caird having to abandon his astound-
ing statement that twenty-Jive tons of dried hay
per Scotch acre had actually been made, and that, too,
by the 26tli of July last ; while now Mr. Telfer states
that he will only have cut sixty-Jive tons of grass, equal,
he supposes, to twenty tons of hay, by the end of this
month. I am, nevertheless, still so strongly impressed
with the correctness of my recollection of the items of
Mr. Telfer's statement, as given in my letter, and which
was made to me personally after Mr. Mechi's leathering
— confirmed as it is by the remark which he added by
way of rider, that " Mr. Caird shovild not have made
the announcement he did until he had been better, ac-
quainted with the particulars of the case" — that I shall
to-day write to him to endeavour to clear up the dis-
crepancy ; and if the point is thought worthy of further
notice, you shall duly have the result.

The point at issue, however, is not as to Mr. Caird's
veracity in relating what he thought to be true relative
to Mr. Telfer's crops, for that no one who knows him
would, for one moment, think of doubting ; but as to
the facts which he was led to outrage by his extreme
love of the marvellous, exemplified as it is by his acting
sponsor for so many new systems, or points of a system,
of practical farming ; and I think the occasion is oppor-
tune for intimating to him the prevailing sentiments of
English agriculturists, who, I believe, have been brought
to think that if he has nothing more useful to tell them
during his peregrinations here than the necessity of
adopting those wonders of the north, which tend to
disturb their imaginations without strengthening their
hands, he had better confine his labours to the other
side of the Tweed until he can shew that the
leading farmers of Scotland have been brought to
give his new principles even a trial, far less to have
engrafted them on their practice. In the mean time,
Mr. Editor, are the English occupiers of the soil, as a
body, to submit tacitly to the taunt that they don't
adopt Mr. Caird's agricultural possibilities, because they
don't understand them ? On the contrary, I assert
that they do not adopt them, because they do understand
them. Is the hobby of an amateur, or the toy of a
successful tradesman, to be substituted for the business
of farming ? What, I would ask, are the primary
wants that present themselves to farmers, whose occu-
pation is the business of their life, before they
can be expected to entertain the extreme theories
of this new school ? Do they not understand that
probably one-half of the land in England is yet

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

421

undrained, and one-half of the holdings without ead.
quate buildings ; and that to supply these primary)
eisintials to ordinary, not to extraordinary, farming,
would absorb sixty millions of money, which is more
than all the available capital of the United Kingdom,
and probably a larger surplus than this country will be
able to raise, for such a purpose, with all its mighty
powers of accummulation during the next 50 years.

Then, if we turn to Ireland, what do we
find there ? Not, certainly, an agricultural con-
dition ripe for the adoption of force-pipe irrigation,
but one requiring an expenditure of ^88,000,000
on farm buildings and fences, and ^20,000,000 on
stock, as estimated by Arthur Young in 1779,
to raise that country up to an agricultural level
with England ; since which time it has been but
slightly changed. To these sums I will venture to add
£30,000,000 as my own estimate of the manure
required to bring up a soil impoverished by crops grown
without it, and carried off without an equivalent, to a
parallel condition with that of this country. And will
an expenditure of £20,000,000 more in practical tuition
raise up the 2,000,000 of agricultural labourers and
squatters in Ireland to the commercial value of an equal
number of the agricultural labourers — they deserve the
name of artizans — of either England or of Scotland ?

Then, while it is thus essential to the successful con-
tinuance of the practice of agriculture, and the mainte-
nance of its progressive advancement, that so much
capital should be expended and so much labour be-
stowed, why should Mr. Caird and our other modern
agricultural peripatetics pursue a " Will-o'-the-Wisf\"
only dimly visible to their own intellectual optics, and
endeavour to lead the practical tenant farmer from the
fields of successful industry and skill, into the delu-
sive quagmire of excessive gains of easy attain-
ment, while they might take up the ball of
progress where only it has been practically
left by the cultivators of the soil, and thus accomplish
some good to the science they profess ? As well might
the market-gardens of Hammersmith, from which the oc-
cupiers make a hundred pounds an acre, or the Aromatic
Garden of Mr, Grossmith, at Epsom, from which he
realizes two, be held up to the farmers of England for
universal adoption, equally as the experiments, however
laudable, of such gentlemen as Mr. Telfer. Their pro-
tection against all such unreal advantages, is their good
common sense, which will lead Ihtm, first to count the
cost, and secondly to estimate the result (when that is
possible), before they adopt them into their practice.
Yours faithfully,

An Agriculturist.

Monday Morning, Oct. 9, 1854.

Sir, — May I take the liberty of drawing the attention
of those of your readers not familiar with the details of
haymaking to the erroneous calculations in Mr. Telfer's
letter in the Mark-lane Express of last week, relative to
a ton of hay from 83 tons of grass, according to Pro-
fessor Way's experiment ? You will perceive that
" 75 per cent, of moisture" gives 25 of dried hay.

Now, add to this " 16 per cent, of moisture," which
the Professor found that hay contained, and we have 41
per cent, of hay in its ordinary state, according to the
Cirencester experiment above ; or 100 tons of grass
gives 41 of hay, 10 tons of grass 4 tons 2 cwt. of hay, 5
tons of grass 2 tons 1 cwt. of hay, and 2i tons of grass
1 ton and 561bs. of hay, which approximates pretty-
closely, we may observe, to the experiment of Mr.
Dickenson, quoted from the Journal of the Royal
Agricultural Society. The 80 per cent, of water, again,
according to Dr. Voelcker's experiments, given in my
last, would give only 20 of dried hay ; so that, if we add
16 to this, we have 3G per cent, of hay, or every 25 tons
of grass would give 9 tons of hay, 121 tons of grass
4| tons of hay, and 8^ tons of grass 3 tons of hay, or 3
tons of grass would give rather more than 1 ton of hay,
the crop being free from clover ; which approximates to
Mr. Telfer's 6wn experiment, although it diflPers widely
with his subsequent statement, that grass in Ayrshire
only contains " 74 per cent, of moisture." Moreover,
74 per cent, of moisture would give 42 per cent, of
hay; so that 27^ tons of grass would yield a great deal
more than " 8 tons of hay," or upwards of 11 tons.

The difference of five per cent, of moisture between
the two experiments at Cirencester is, no doubt, ac-
counted for from the hygrometrical difference of the two
seasons, and stages of growth when the two crops were
cut ; and we should rather feel disposed to calculate, in
the absence of experiment, that grass in Ayrshire,
forced up to the enormous weight of 27^ tons per acre,
contained five per cent, more moisture than the latter
experiment of Dr. Voelcker, if not more, instead of sis
per cent, less, as Mr. Telfer — unwittingly, we pre=
sume — would have us believe.

Fair play is a jewel ; and, in making these correc»
tions, it is no more than reasonable to suppose that Mr.
Telfer is as anxious to give the real weight of his grass
crop this year being experimented upon, as we are t6
hear it, although it is evident we must accept his calcu-
lations with caution ; and therefore we would suggest its
chemical analysis (if such has not already been done), in
order to settle the question as to the per-centage of
water which such an enormous crop contains — or next
year, if our proposition is too late to be carried into
effect this. Statistical and practical information of this
kind is invaluable, apart from the question at issue rela-
tive to 25 tons of hay per Scotch acre in one season,
for Practical Chemistry has acquired such authority
among us of late, that unless her demands of this kind
are complied with, the accuracy of experiments, other-
wise invaluable, is liable to be questioned. In the above
experiment, for instance, where we are told that " 3
tons of grass gave 20 cwt. 1 qr. and l2lb3. of hay,"
the per-centage of moisture which the hay contained
ought to have been given, for, in the absence of such, it
may be said that it contained some 30 per cent, instead
of from 14 to 16, which would materially affect its
value ; and even where analytical demands of this kind
are complied with, the greatest circumspection is neces-
sary to avoid error.

I am, Mr. Editor, your obedient servant, B.
F F 2

422

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

SiH,, — Having paid a little attention to the corre-
spondence which has appeared in your paper lately
regarding Mr. Telfer's hay crop, perhaps a few sugges-
tions from a bystander may lead to a unity of opinion
among the parties concerned.

I believe I am not in error when I state that Mr.
Caird did not mean to aver that 25 tons of hay were
actually made from the product of a Scotch acre at a
single cutting, but during one season, and as the result
of three or more successive cuttings.

Judging, too, from Mr. Telfer's letter, the 25 tons of
hay were not actually made, but only that such a quan-
tity of grass was grown, which, if converted into hay,
that weight might have been realized.

If these suppositions be correct — and I am pretty
sure that they are — the possibility of Mr. Caird's un-
qualified statement is then less difficult to be believed,
although as yet there is no evidence to prove that it has
ever been accomplished in fact, either on this or your
side of the border.

I am, sir, yours respectfully,

Leith, Oct. 14. T.

[Mr. Caird distinctly said, and reiterated, that " it had
been done" — 25 tons of hay made. No one, however,
has attempted to maintain such a further absurdity,
as that this could be done at a single cutting. That
would be a little too much. — Ed. M.L.E.]

SiK, — Though not an agriculturist, yet as one who takes
a lively individual interest in what ought to be interesting to
all men, I venture to put to you the following questions on
this subject, which perhaps some of your correspondents wil]
enable you to answer specifically through your columns.

According to Mr. Telfer's letter to you of the 3rd, Professor
Anderson (not the Wizard, I hope) has found that Italian rye-
grass subjected to chemical analysis contained of moisture 75
per cent., while hay was found by Professor Way to contain
16 per cent., leaving only 59 per cent, of moisture in grass
more than in hay ; consequently, 65 tons of grass would be
equivalent to 26 tons 7 cwt. of hay, nett.

Now, free from the mists of controversy, let us have a few
facts.

First. Are Professors Way and Anderson correct in their
analyses, and are they correctly quoted ?

Second. Did Mr. Telfer actually raise as much as even fifty
tons per acre of Italian rye-grass? — for even that would give
21 tons 10 cwt. per acre of hay, on the basis of calculation
furnished.

Of course I am aware that grass is not hay, and that the
winnowing, if it takes place on the field, must be accom-
plished at the expense of the nest crop ; but that is a purely
mechanical diiRculty, and it is not impossible it may be con-
quered.

Let us have what Nature gives in bounty to enterprise first ;
for, if the above be the facts, they are certainly great facts.
I remain, yours, &c.,

Edinburgh, Oct. 20, 1854. An ENauiRER.

ADVICE TO FARMERS.— It is quite possible that a
farmer msy 5nake what is termed a lucky hit ; but we very
much question whether a farmer who either holds or sells on
speculation that prices will either rise or fall, ever permanently

succeeds so well as those who act on another principle. The
business of the farmer is to cultivate, not to speculate ; and
when he quits his proper business for a crude estimate of what
foreign politics or unknown weather may possibly bring, we
apprehend that in the long run be will discover that he has
made a bad investment of his time. But happily there is
another mode of determining the proper period at which the
farmer may calculate that he sells with safety, a mode
which we have heard wise men say is the best of
all, namely, the period which is best for the farm, irre-
spective of all foreign politics. Czars, Turts, Tartars, Cossacks,
allies, or anything whatever, save only of the best possible way
of managing the farm. We cannot help thinking that the
system which is best for the farm must ultimately be best for
the farmer. With a steam mill it is quite easy to thrash off a
crop in a few weekci, and occasionally such a venture might
produce most money— to be followed, however, by inconvenience
in the farm work and farm feeding all the rest of the season ;
and the question is, whether any amount of human foresight
could — say on a period of ten years— secure a greater
advantage by a speculative attention to prices, than by order-
ing everything, sales included; exactly as was most conducive
to the agricultural welfare of the farm itself, and by taking
the market price at the time, and in the quantity, which the
farming operations required. The thrashing and the sales would
thus come to be distributed, not by an attention to wars aud
rumours of wars, but by an exclusive attention to the more
and more perfect outline of the farm ; and the farmer would
thrash and sell exactly as his horses, cattle, labour, manuring,
and other things, required — going to market with his grain,
not with regrets that prices had fallen, or fearing that they
might rise, but with the honest consciousness that he was doing
his best to be a good farmer, and to leave speculations to those
whose especial trade it was to deal, and not to cultivate. Good
fai'ming will in the long run be incomparably more profitable
to the farmer than speculating, however fortunate or however
clever the latter may happen to be occasionally. — Edinburgh
Witness.

THE FALL OF THE LEAF.— The fall of the leaf is a
most curious circumstance, and has puzzled many a wise
philosopher. It cannot be merely because of the cold to which
the leaf is exposed, for when a frost in June blackens our
hedgerows, and desolates our gardens, the leaves do not fall
off; they only wither and die. It may be because of the
arrival oi old age, but this ia a phrase which explains nothing.
One would naturally ask, moreover, why some leaves remain
on the tree the whole winter, though others fall so early. To
understand these things, we must first learn what the leaf is^
and how it is joined to the branch. A leaf is the thin part of
the outer layer of bark, pushed outwards and stiffened by
tough fibres, which pass into it from the wood, and form its
veins. By these means, a simple and very curious apparatus
is constructed, the green or bark part of which, consisting of
small bladders, acts as a stomach to digest with and lungs to
breathe with, while the fibres convey food and air from the
branch into the stomach and lungs. Now, when the leaf is
first formed its bladders and fibres have very thin sides, and
whatever is introduced mto them is readily returned again ;
and if what they receive was quite pure, it is not improbable
that they would go on receiving and returning for a long time.
But the fluids of plants are not water ; on the contrary, they
contain a great deal of earth, and other matters, which they
deposit every time they pass over the surface. We know that
when a kettle first comes home from the ironmonger its inside
is bright and clean, but as soon as we have boiled any water in

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

423

it, the iuside becomes a little furred, and when it has been
thus used a great many times it becomes very much encrusted,
till at last it is quite lined with a substance like hard earthen-
ware. Something of this sort takes place in the inside of the
bladders and fibres of a leaf; they are at first quite clean, but
by degrees they are furred till their sides are rendered so thick
that the fluid on which the leaf feeds can no longer pass
through them readily. As soon as this happens the leaf
begins to be starved and to leave off growing ; want of food
renders it weak, a sort of indigestion takes place, and at last
it altogether dies. In the summer time leaves are always
falling off as they die, those on the lowest part of the branches
falling first ; but we do not remark it, because the falling leaves
are hidden by the living ones. Now the reason why a leaf

falls off when it is dead seems to be this : the bark to which
it is attached goes on growing and expands ; the leaf-stalk, as
it dies, shrivels and contracts ; the consequence of which is,
that the one separates from the other. It is, in fact, just
what happens when a piece of iron is heated and then cooled ;
the outer part, which is an oxide, cools much quicker than the
inner part. The metal contracts, but as the metal and the
surface cool at a different rate, they also contract at a different
rate, and so separate. Such is the case in the summer time ;
and, when the frost comes ia the autumn, something of the
sort takes place. A.t that time the leaves are generally in a
dying state, for the reasons already explained ; a partial sepa-
ration has in fact taken place between them and their branches.
— Literary Journal.

THE SHEEP.
{Continued from page 292.)

" First, with assiduous care from winter keep.
Well foddered in the stalls, thy tender sheep."

Dryden.

A good deal of fruitless discussion has taken place as
to the propinquity or family relation of the different
breeds of sheep in the world, no less than of their origin.
How many breeds Noah preserved of the antedilaviari
stock, neither sacred nor profane history gives us any
definite information ; while the breeds themselves, at
the present day, afford ample materials for endless dis-
quisition. The Mosaic account, for instance, is suffi-
ciently broad to admit of a very wide construction ; for
the sheep being a clean animal, according to the
Adamitic dispensation subsequently reratified with the
Hebrews at Sinai, either seven kinds, or seven couples
(the male and female) of each kind, may have been
preserved. The former is a definite number, and may,
therefore, be assumed; but the latter is otherwise, leav-
ing a wide field for the imagination to traverse among
existing bi'eeds.

Assuming seven varieties, or fourteen Lead, (a very
small flock, we may observe, considering its usefulness,
to save from the old world to stock the present) the
long and shortwoolled breeds would necessai'ily form
two of these ; and if the fat-rumped and fat-tailed are
admitted as two others, then the Musmon, Argali, and
bearded sheep of Africa (Ovis tragelaphus) may be
given as the remainder.

There are, however, many objections to this hypo-
thesis of the different species of sheep, not very easily
answered ; for it is a well-known fact that, in the case
of the fat-tailed and fat-rumped kinds, food has a great
influence upon the deposition of fat, and therefore may
have given rise to those two varieties. We see in some
of our own breeds, for instance (as the Leicesters), a pro-
pensity to lay on fat on the rump and back, which has
become hereditary; and again, when fat-rumped and
fat-tailed breeds are put upon a different quality of pas-
ture, and under different treatment and climate, they
lose those fatty characteristics : but if, on the other
hand, they are thus descended of either of the other

varieties, this " steatopygous" type must have been de-
veloped at a very early period of their history, for the
inspired penman mentions the burning of the fat upon
the rump, in sacrifice, during the exodus of the Hebrews
from Egypt, which leaves more than probability in fa-
vour of its being an original specific qualification, for
the purpose of serving some peculiar exigency of nature
in warm climates, similar to that of the fatty hump of
the Indian ox ; for, had it been a malformation, it would
have been a blemish unfit for sacrifice.

In illustration of these objections as to the effects of
food, we may observe that it has been attributed to the
peculiar saline and bitter herbage of the deserts of
Tartary and Syria, where the steatopygous breeds
are generally found ; but the argument, independently
of what we have said above, docs not appear to be con-
clusive, for there the facts of the case only prove that
on some pastures the sheep take on fat faster than on
others containing a different quality of grass, for when-
ever the sheep becomes lean, and lacks fat or carbon to
supply the respiratory and other functions of the animal
economy which it serves, then it must, as a matter of
course, draw upon the fat of the rump, and exhaust that
supply also, which, in point of fact, is placed there by
nature for that express purpose. The effect of salt on
the fattening of sheep of every breed is well known. No
breed can enjoy health long without it. But with re-
gard to the bitter herbs spoken of, such as wormwood,
we hardly can swallow the conclusion, as some have
done, that it, from its medicinal qualities, would make
our native breeds of sheep lay on some 40 to lOOlbs. of
pygous or caudal fat, requiring carriages to carry it, as
in the extra-fat sheep of the East. We are carrying the
fattening process to an excess already, but fortunately
have not got so far as this. At the same time, it may
act as a tonic, and thus enable the stomach to dispose
of a larger amount of nourishing grasses ; so that the ex-
perience of the Calmuc Tartars, &c., may furnish us
with a useful practical lesson, after all.

Tlie other hypothesis of Noah's flock would give
fourteen short- wools and as many long-wools, with a

424

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

similar number of each of the other species, which woul<J
increase its numbers to the opposite extreme of what
was formerly observed of the first supposition, unless
we reduce the fat- tailed and fat-rumped to one original
breed, as some have done, and the three wild breeds to a
common parentage also, thus making a total of only 56
in the flock, subdivided into four species — viz., long-
wools, short-wools, fat-tailed, and some gigantic and
large-horned breed whose character had unfitted it for
herding with the others, and on that account allowed to
run wild, where it would change its features in many
respects, owing to the different physical circumstances
to which it would be subject, analogous to what we see
in our own native breeds, between which there is scarcely
a less difference than between the Musmon, Argali, and
bearded sheep.

These observations on the breeds of sheep are rather
thrown out for the purpose of arousing enquiry, than
any attempt to settle the knotty question at issue.
Whatever may have been the number of species which
comprised Noah's flock when he descended into the
plains of Armenia from Ararat, it is plain that esch is
now subdivided into many varieties or breeds, and the
practical questions which most interest the farmer are
the means which have been employed for producing
such an effect.

The causes in question are many, and shepherds
appear to have been acquainted with them from time
immemorial. Moses and the early Hebrew writers who
followed him, for instance, mention many interesting
facts in corroboration of this : so do Hesiod, Homer,
and the early historians of Greece ; while subsequent
writers, of every age, make special mention of the
changes to which the breeds of sheep are liable, and the
causes which produce them.

The more prominent of these causes may be thus
stated generally, 1st, food, or those which affect the
alimentary system, and the consequent development of
the members of the body ; 2ndly, physical causes from
without, affecting the sensorial functions or the nervous
mystem ; 3rdly, physical causes, also from without,
affecting the muscular system, bones, &c. ; 4thly,
climate, or those affecting the heat of the body ; and
5thly, mixture of blood.

The first of these, food, embraces the Tartarian theory
of wormwood and salt, already noticed. Our native
breeds of sheep, where left to themselves, as in the
mountains of Wales, Scotland, and Ireland, and also the
different kinds of deer, will go miles to the sea to drink
salt water of their own accord ; and on other occasions,
eat wormwood, tansy, and such like plants, possessing
medical qualities of a kindred character. If annoyed
with intestinal worms, for instance, they drink sea water
as a vermifuge, and as both are voracious creatures,
liable to overload and injure their stomachs, they may
have recourse to wormwood for the same reason that
gourmands, after a surfeit, have recourse to Creme
d' Absinthe . When sheep pastures abound in plants of
this kind, especially wormwood, their mutton will even
partake of a bitter flavour, relished by many, if not the
majority. It \s to plants possessing strong aromatic

properties that the fine flavour of our hill and heath-fed
mutton is to be attributed ; so that a very import^iit
practical question arises — ought we to cultivate such
plants, and mix them along with the food of sheep ?
Every farmer is familiar with the fact that the great art
of feeding, or procuring heavy weights at an early
growth, is the preservation of good health and appetite,
especially when large quantities of oilcake are consumed.
Ought not bitter herbs, therefore, to be consumed along
with such food, not less for health and appetite than the
quality of mutton ?

But when an excess of such plants is consumed, the
health may be impaired in the first place, and after an
effort has been made by nature to adapt herself to them,
health may recover ; but unnatural developments may
take place, such as the accumulation of fat on the rump
and tail. So some have argued (?~), although their ar-
guments, as we have already said, are far from con-
clusive, for then constitutional malformations of
this kind, according to such a theory, would at the
best be an index of natural debility, while they are
experienced as the opposite, being an index of
health.

The more rational theory of the pastures of the
Tartar and Arab tribes is, that the peculiar quality of
the grass and climate requires a certain proportion of
saline and tonic plants to promote the highest de-
gree of health ; and that with these, sheep fatten
faster than without them ; and that as they suffer
from the extreme drought of summer, a large supply
of fat is required for the lubrication of the skin and
body generally, than can be procured at that season
from the scorched grass of the desert. Hence, Nature
has made a wise provision for such an exigency by en-
abling them to lay up a store when grass is abundant ;
and that where such provision is not made, as in the
absence of such plants, when flocks, instinctively endea-
vouring to make it, oveiload their stomachs, producing
surfeits, bad health, and all their consequences, then
they must suffer seriously in seasons of drought, if they
be not cut off altogether. It is also more than probable
that the peculiar ilavour which such antiseptic plants
confer upon the mutton makes it of a quality better
adapted for the exigencies of an oriental climate, inde-
pendently of its enabling sheep to lay up a larger store
of fat without endangering health.

An extra supply of salubrious food, again, through-
out the year, may induce indolent habits or a want of
muscular action, and therefore development ; and hence
a preponderance of fat in the system. The sheep may
carry too much fat, and too little lean. Good health
requires a just proportion of the two; and this is what
sheep, under such circumstances, therefore, cannot
enjoy. In some cases they " make a stand" in feeding
and growth, out of which it is hardly possible to stir
them. Nature feels the precarious predicament in which
she has placed herself, and therefore wishes to retrace
her steps, as it were. In short, more practically stated,
the sheep loathes its food, and refuses to eat. In other
cases the appetite remains good, or rather, the stomach
and absorbents become voracious, devouring everjr edible

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

425

which comes in the way ; so that the result is, a huge
carcase of inferior quality.

A similar result may be produced by food containing
an excess of carbonaceous matter. It is rarely that such
is to be met with in any of our natural pastures ; but it
may be so in other climates, as in Tartary, although we
are not cognizant of the fact. In artificial feeding, it
is but too frequently experienced, as in extra quantities
of oilcake, corn, and roots deficient of nitrogen or flesh-
forming substances. Food containing an excess or defi-
ciency of the elements of bone will, for similar reasons,
have a tendency to produce large or small-boned
animals,

A scanty supply of inferior herbage throughout the
year, or a limited supply of inferior food during winter,
with a full bite of rich grass during summer, will pro-
duce examples of a very different kind. The sheep will
now have more than a sufficiency of exercise in gather-
ing its food, for instance ; and therefore its muscular
development will exceed its adipose, and both fat and
lean will be of superior quality, compared with those of
the former examples. In the first case, where there is a
short supply during the whole year, there will be a ten-
dency to legginess, with a light body, the bone being
fine or coarse according as the food contains less or
more of the elements of bone. In the second case, the
full bite during summer will increase the size of the
body, especially the belly. At this season, an extra
supply of fat will be laid up for winter use, during which
it will be consumed, especially in aged sheep. This is
also the season when ewes nurse their lambs, so that
they, by having better keep, will also have more milk,
and hence produce heavier stock. Young sheep will,
for similar reasons, grow faster during the summer than
the winter season ; consequently they, by having a less
supply of extra fat for winter use, will suffer more
from the inclemency of this period than after they
have arrived at maturity of growth. Farther, this
alternate action of superfluity and want in the ali-
mentary system cannot fail to produce a constitu-
tional type in sheep. They will be slow feeders,
for example, until they have attained to a maturity of
growth, and rapid feeders afterwards, because they have
always been habituated to such circumstances. The
quality of the mutton will generally be good on sound
pasture, with a fair proportion of fat and lean ; although
the two may not always be very well mixed, the alter-
nate depositions of fat giving rise to a contraction of the
adipose tissue in some parts of the body, but producing
the opposite effect in others — the fat being laid upon
the outside, creating " patchiness." Under such cir-
cumstances, the "leg of mutton" will at times eat
remarkably sweet, but be deficient of fat ; while at
other times it may be somewhat coarse and dry. The
shoulder may be similar, and yet an abundance of fat
may cover the back, at times well mixed, but at
others not.

"When the sheep, on the contrary, has a regular sup-
ply of proper food during the whole year, then there
will be a tendency to the highest degree of health, with
a proportionate development of fat, lean, »nd bon? ; sq

that the several objections above noticed will be ob-
viated. When we come to apply these observations to
practice, we shall find that the grand object of every
good shepherd, in every age and climate of the world,
has been to preserve his flock at a uniform degree of fat-
ness during every season of the year, experience having
taught him that success could only thus be obtained.
Even in patriarchal times, when as much value was
placed upon the milk of the ewe as upon the quantity
of wool and mutton annually produced by her, unless a
regular supply of food was consumed, neither good milk-
ewes nor a large quantity of rich milk or good wool
could be obtained. In other words, her offspring would
neither be profitable for the pail, shears, nor shambles;
while with regular feeding all these qualifications are
obtained, and at less expense of food than under the ad-
verse treatment.

Much more might have been added on this head had
our limits permitted ; but enough has been said to show
how far food has been instrumental in producing those
varieties now existing among the different breeds of
sheep even when considered by itself, and when in joint
co-operation with the other agents its influence will be
found still more powerful. " Science" it is said, " is
the voice of sound practice ;" so that its application
in the feeding of sheep becomes a golden rule for the
shepherd.

SONG OF THE FARMER.

BY THE "PEASANT BARD,"

Give to the lord his palace grand.

And halla of splendid pride ;
A fig for all his dignities.

And all his pomp beside !
Give me the Farmeu's peaceful home,

Beneath the maples high.
Where Nature's warblers wake the song.

The waters pratthng nigh.

The citizen may love the town.

And Fashion's gaudy show;
The brilliant pageantry of Art

May please the eye, I know ;
But Nature's charms delight the heart,

All simple though they be ;
The acres broad, the streamy vales.

The lowing herds for me !

What though the bronze is on our cheek,

Toil calloused is our hand.
With honest pride we stand erect.

The nobles of the land ;
For " patriot Truth," that spirit bright.

In this wide world so rare.
Points proudly to the Farmer's home.

And cries — My own are there !

CHORUS.

Then here's to him who tills the soil.

The true, the strong, the brave !
Without him Art would fly the land.

And Commerce leave the wave;
And yet no frown of hauteur cold

Distaius his manly brow ; —
Hail to the Farmer ! thrice all hail I

Lord of the mighty plow !

426

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

GRANTHAM AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY,

It is with much pleasure that we are enabled to
give the following from The Times newspaper, in
introduction to a very able speech from Sir John
Trollope, as President of the above society. We
can only repeat that we have very carefully v/atched
the tone of the different agricultural meetings as
held within this last year or so, and that while we
see much to commend, there is httle indeed to find
fault with, A reply may be forced from them;
though, if left to the direction of their own good
sense, we believe the agriculturists of this kingdom
will show little desire to revive unprofitable dis-
cussions. We are glad to notice our powerful
contemporary inchned to treat their sayings and
doings in this much fairer spirit, and we have
only to hope that neither may for the future find
occasion for the display of any less becoming ex-
pression of feeling or opinion,

[from the times.]
On Wednesday last one of our Protectionist chiefs
addressed his constituents, at an agricultural show, in a
speech which ranged over the topics of the day, from
the position of England and the policy of the German
Courts to the events in the Crimea and the general pro-
spects of the vpar. In this there vras nothing very sin-
gular. Lord Derby's adherents are not usually disposed
to be dumb, nor is it at all uncommon to find them
plunging into every subject as far as they can reach,
and occasionally getting beyond that mark. The re-
markable feature of the esposition at Grantham was its
thorough good sense. Sir John Trollope got through
an oration of some length without any abuse of free
trade or freetraders, without any display of factious
spite, and with an effect which did him no small credit.
In particular, his remarks upon the principles by which
the Government of this country is characterized, and his
description of the contrast presented by the German
States, are deserving of more than ordinary attention
and approval.

Sir John Trollope, it appears, has recently returned
from a tour in Germany, where he " made it his busi-
ness to ascertain what was the prevailing opinion with
regard to the war." He found the people almost una-
nimous in concurring with France and England and
condemning Russia. Throughout these parts of the
continent, indeed, the sympathy with England was
everywhere strongly marked. Our language, our lite-
rature, and our institutions were studied ; and a variety
of inducements combined to make British policy popular.
Seeing this, and being impressed at the same time with a
decided admiration of the community whose views he
was thus observing. Sir John "naturally inquired how
it was that a great and enlightened people possessed no
influence over their Government, or had the power

to call upon them to put an end at once to this
miserable struggle between despotism and liberty ?"
To these questions he received for answer, that
in Germany Germans went for nothing ; that
affairs were managed, not for the people, but for
the princes ; and that, while the former were opposed
heart and soul to Russia and her system, the latter were
attached by family connexion, and even by " less ho-
nourable links," to the Court of St. Petersburg. " It
was this," added Sir John Trollope — this, the contrast
between Germany and England — " that made him proud
of being an Englishman, feeling, as he did, that no Go-
vernment here could act contrary to the will of the
people," What some of Sir John's friends may think
of this political axiom we do not stop to consider ; but
if these ere the tenets of the Protectionist leaders, we
can readily understand the truth of Mr, Bright's remark
in the House, that the country " would never get a more
Conservative Government than it had at present."

Equally notable were the speaker's reflections upon
the continental revolutions of 1830 and 1848. " It
was," said he^ " from the want of this principle" — viz.,
that constituting the people the real possessors of power
— "that those terrible disturbances occurred. Govern-
ments were there overthrown simply because they were
not in accord with the people ; but in this country Par-
liament was the reflex of the feeling of the constituency,
Government was the result of the will of Parliament,
and thus, in fact, the people constituted the Government
of this country." Unless these words contain some
lurking suggestion that a Parliament which operates in
so desirable a manner cannot need any reform, they might
have been reported, without any apparent improbability
as proceeding from the mouth of Mr. Hume himself,
and, indeed, the whole speech, from first to last, might
have been delivered by any Liberal statesman without
any forfeit of character. Sir John admitted that even
Lincolnshire agriculturists could not " presume to be
right upon all points," that they " lived to learn," and
that they ought to look with satisfaction upon the con-
trast discernible between the present aspect of agricul-
ture and that exhibited in the good old times. What
made the whole scene more remarkable was, that all
these observations upon politics and farming were re-
ceived with rumultuous approbation by the
agriculturists assembled, and, in particular, it
seemed as if Sir John had found his way to the
very hearts of the Lincolnshire graziers by a proposal
to reconstitute the kingdom of Poland. Evidently
there is small hope for the Emperor Nicholas from any
parties in this country.

With respect to the statements made by Sir John
concerning the tendency of opinion in Germany, we
have abundant reason for believing that they represent
the actual condition of affairs with unimpeachable truth.
We may go, indeed, so far as to say that no nation or

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

437

Government in Europe has attempted to vindicate the
proceedings of Russia or to condemn the conduct of the
Western Powers. The unanimity of sentiment pre-
vailing upon this subject produces a state of European
opinion entirely without precedent. Even those courts
the sympathies of which are secretly engaged in favour
of the Czar have so far and so publicly committed
themselves by their declared views upon the cause at
issue as to be debarred from openly opposing the allies,
except at the cost of their reputation, and possibly of
their power. The Prussian Government itself, which,
so long as the dispute seemed likely to stop short of
war, was eager in asserting its obligations to action,
plainly acknowledged both that Russia was in the
wrong, and that the redress sought for this wrong by
France and England was not exorbitantly conceived.
In the United States of America there are certainly one
or two journals which have suddenly displayed an
attachment to the Russian cause so strong as to pro-
duce a defence of the Czar's doings on their own
merits. These publications argue that an absolute
unconditional adherence to European treaties and
established landmarks would simply produce a general
stagnation, beneficial only to those States that were
content with their own ; that Russia, in seizing upon
the territories of the Sultan, was but obeying a natural
law of State development, and that the outcry raised at
the proceeding is altogether absurd. This, it must be
owned, is straightforward advocacy, and is, perhaps,
the best which the cause of the Czar admits, but
it has not been ventured upon in Europe, nor
would the theory, we imagine, be regarded with
unmixed approval by States which might some day
find the same principles applied to themselves. The
course of the German Governments has been very differ-
ent. With a pretentious desire to be reckoned for
something in European transactions, they have shrunk
from the obligations which such a capacity involves,
and, after confessing that the Czar was undoubtedly an
offender against public law, they have coniined their
exertions to screening him as far as possible from public
justice. They have admitted that what England and
France are doing required to be done ; but, instead of
bearing their own share in the work, they have main-
tained a neutrality favourable to the offender, and have
unhesitatingly sacrificed their own recorded convictions
to the private interests of their Courts. The German
people are notoriously of a certain opinion in respect
of the pending war ; the German Governments have de-
clared themselves of this opinion also ; but, as the con-
sequences flowing from these admissions would be dis-
agreeable to certain German princes, the action of
Germany is nullified altogether.

What a contrast to such a policy is now presented in
this kingdom ! Here the people not only identify them-
selves with the Government and its objects, but they
even anticipate its operations in all that may promote
the success of the war. The Administration finds it im-
possible to outstrip the feeling of the public. The pro-
vision made by the Legislature for the expenses of the
campaign is swelled by voluntary offerings ; and it almost

seems as if the people were ready to take upon them-
selves the charge of any particular department, rather
than permit its efficiency to be curtailed by economi-
cal management. This, as Sir John Trollope truly ob-
served, is the real strength of a Government. We have
not maintained our millions of armed men, or lavished
the resources of the State in creating the appearance of
military power ; but we can dare and do what Govern-
ments with innumerable legions at their command have
not ventured to attempt — we have encountered that
Power which all Germany has taught itself to dread,
and, with the aid of our ally and the support of popular
unanimity, we trust to give a good account of our un>=
dertaking.

The anniversary of this society was held at Grantham, Lin-
colnshire, on Wednesday, Oct. IS. The exhibition presented
several excellent specimens of good breeding ; but in conse-
quence of the drought in the early pari; cf the summer, there was
not, generally speaking, so fine a show of stock as in the preced-
ing year. Oa the ground we observed the right hon. Sir J.
Trollope, M.P., Sir M. J. Cholmeley, Si? J. E. Welby, M.P.,
Major Allix (the father of Captain Allix, whose name is so
favourably mentioned by Lord Raglan in his recent despatches
with reference to the battle of Alma), Mr. Burbidge (the
Mayor of Grantham), Mr. Ostler, Mr. T. C. Beasley, &c.

After inspectiiJg the showyard, a large number of agricul-
turists and visitors, including the principal gentry of the
neighbourhood, proceeded to the Town-hall, where an excel-
lent dinner was provided fay Mr. Wakefield, cf the Red Lion
Inn.

In proposing the toast " The Army and Navy," Sir J.
Trollope, who presided on the occasion, observed, that he
had several young relatives at the seat of war, performing their
duty to their country ; but while our brave soldiers were
achieving glory to the British arms, much misery and many
broken hearts must necessarily accompany their deeds of
valour (Hear, hear). For the sufferers, therefore, in this con-
flict he trusted that the sympathies of the association would
be aroused, and that they would each contribute to the
general fund for the relief of the widow's and orphans of those
who fell in the cause of freedom and right against barbarian
oppression (loud cheers).

On the toast of the evening being given, " Success to the
Grantham Agricultural Society," Sir J. Trollope, after re-
gretting that the ahowyard' had not made so good a display
this year as upon former occasions, said, that one reason for
the comparative falling off was the fact that the Royal
Agricultural Society had held its meeting this year. He
happened to be at Munich upon that occasion, and there
read with considerable amusement the commentary of the
great and eminent leading journal, the Times, in giving an
account of that meeting, in which it was stated that the
agriculturists of Lincolnshire lost no opportunity of laudino-
their own merits. Now, whatever might be taught them that
was useful they were ready to adopt ; therefore, they assumed
to themselves an honest pride in having achieved what they
had in the improvement of their county (Hear, hear.) They
did not presume to be right upon all points ; they lived to
learn — observation was what made an agriculturist, and by
watching the seasons and the climate they discovered how
best to cultivate the land. Some few of them were old enough
to remember when the face of that county presented a very
dillerent appearance from what it did at the present time ; that
in some parts of it there were mere rabbit warrens, heaths.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

and wolds, while in other parts were uodrained swamps, or
places overrun with ferns ; therefore he thought they might
with some reason consider that they had contributed to the
improvement of their county (Hear, hear), and that they might,
like the old Eoman, who said he found his city brick and left
it marble, exclaim that they who found their county a waste,
uncultivated and barren, left it fertile, fruitful, and well culti-
vated (cheers). In what was it that they were deficient r It
was said that their breed of sheep was bad, and that they
ought to adopt another — the Cotswold breed ; but, when he
could get almost four times the quantity of wool from the
backs of his Leicester or Lincolnshire sheep, he begged to de-
cline changing his breed at the suggestion of any one. In
fact, he had always observed that taking an animal out of its
own particular county caused it to degenerate, decreasing in
size and in quality, and in quantity of wool. He maintained,
therefore, that they could not make any improvement on their
present system, and thought it better to leave things as they
were (Hear, hear).

Sir G. E. Welby then proposed the health of the chairman,
who, he said, was essentially, and par excellence, the farmer's
friend and champion in the House of Commons (cheers).

Sir J. Trollope returned thanks. His hon. friend had
alluded to the high trust which he (the chairman) had received
from their hands as the member for their county. It was no
light thing for a man to undertake the responsibilities of
representing a large county constituency in the 'great council
of the nation. He had not only to consider the mere local
interests of his constituents, but it was his duty as an honest
man to weigh well all matters involving the well-being of the
nation at large (Hear, hear), and he could couscientiously
declare that during the many years he had had a seat in Parlia-
ment he had never forgotten any engagement that he had in his
twofold capacity entered into (cheers). If, however, on this oc-
casion he were to be called upon to render an account of what
had been transacted within the walls of Parliament during the
recent session, he confessed he should be somewhat at a loss
how to meet that call; for, speaking not in any party or
sectarian spirit, but taking an impartial retrospective view of
what was actually done in the last session, he felt that the six
months which were occupied by Parliament had been pro-
ductive of very little practical benefit to the country. Much,
indeed, was promised in Her Majesty's gracious speech from
the throne. Twelve important measures were'proposed to be
brought forward for the consideration of Parliament ; but, after
all, what was the result?— no less than eleven of them fell to
the ground. They were either withdrawn, or they were
defeated because the temper of the moment did not admit,
thoufh they might be good in themselves, of their being
adopted. Men's minds were entirely absorbed by the great
stru<;"le now pending. War had been declared, and England
was called upon to carry a vast armament by sea and by land a
distance of 2,000 miles from our own shores. Parliament
had not only to provide means for this great immediate out-
lav, but to devise the best method of sustaining and support-
in" a most expensive and possibly protracted war. It was
one of the most disagreeable duties of a member of
Parliament to impose taxes upon the country, but, in
this instance the country had imposed that duty upon
Parliament (Hear, hear) ; and the votes to meet the
expenses of the war were granted unanimously. Having this
heavy responsibility cast upon them, it was not likely that
Parliament would be in a condition to set about reforming its
own constitution. That, however, was one of the great mea-
sures of the Ministry of the day. They said that the House
pf Commons ^yan^ed to be reformeij. The tirsf tliipg, howpvcr.

that they would have had to do would have been to prove
that proposition, and to show that the House required to be
set in order at all ; but that measure v/as withdrawn. Even if
it were admitted that there were defects in the existing
system, the country was not at the present moment prepared
to call for their correction. Many of the other measures
which in times of quiet and peace would have received the
respectful attention of the House, were, for the reasons he had
detailed, postponed to a more convenient season. At the close
of the session it was usual for the Speaker of the House of
Commons to announce to her Majesty on the throne what
were the measures which her faithful Commons had passed
during the session ; but the right hon. Speaker — a man of noble
presence, eloquent, and seldom wanting in fluency of phrase —
when approaching the royal presence, after a few brief sen-
tences, actually broke down, for he had nothing to tell. Hia
case was something like that of the knife-grinder, who, on
being invited to tell his " pitiful" story, replied—" Story !
God bless you ! I have none to tell, sir." (Laughter.) Hitherto,
however, he had been speaking of the past, but what chiefly
concerned them was the conduct of the future (Hear, hear).
"What were the prospects of this country as regarded the
war in which they were now engaged ? It was of the
greatest possible importance to know how this country
stood with her allies. They all knew the loyalty and
fidelity with which the Emperor of the French had carried
out his engagements with us. The two nations knew each
other's worth and valour by former conflicts between
themselves, and now they were gloriously ranged side
by side in a foreign land (cheers), to fight the cause of
freedom, without any sordid view of territorial aggrandize-
ment. They were at this moment lavishing their blood and
treasure to resist the overreaching and undermining policy of
Russia, who, if unchecked and unrestrained, would allow no
peace for Europe. The present was a struggle between a
barbaric Power, which kept its subjects in a state of ignorance
and serfdom, and two enlightened nations, whose mission it
was to advance the cause of civilization throughout the world.
He had recently travelled through a great portion of Germany,
and had made it a subject of deep interest to watch the pro-
ceedings of the great Germanic Confederation. He had looked
at the conduct of the allies of this nation in that country.
Austria, having nearly half a million of men in arms, had gone
along with England to a certain extent, but she had wavered
and hesitated. His belief was, that if Austria had thrown
down the gauntlet, and had said to Russia, " Thus far shall
you go, and no further," there would have been no war. He
did not, however, mean to blame the Government of this
country for what had occurred. War had taken place, and
they must meet it with honour — they must meet it with energy,
determined to sustain the honour of the Crown and the glory
of the country. (Cheers). He had recently attended a great
exhibition at Munich. No part of the continent was more
civilized, or its inhabitants more learned ; their sympathies
with England were great, as indeed among the people was the
fact throughout all Germany. They studied our language, our
literature, and our institutions. He made it his business while
among them to agcertain what was the prevailing opinion
with regard to the war; and he found among the people,
whether Austrians or Prussians, that the opinion was one
of condemnation against Russia. Finding this to be so, he
naturally inquired how it was that a great and enlightened
people possessed no influence over their Government,
or had the power to call upon them to put at
once an end to this miserable struggle between despotism
and liberty. B^j; wbst ^''* *^'^ answer he receiyed ? Thesfl

THJ^. FARMER'S MAGAZINE. ^

429

eulighteued men, who took a rational view of the position of
affairs, declared to him that while they and the great bulk of
the Germanic people were in heart opposed to the aggressive
system of Russia, they wera compelled to yield an apparent
acquiescence to Eussiaa policy and the bjas of their Courts.
The people of Germany said they were one thing, their rulers
wore another; the latter were allied with Russia by the closest
ties of marriage connection, and, they added, by less honour-
able links, for it was well known that Russian gold, applied
by Russian diplomacy, had operated greatly among the Courts
of Germany. But of this he was convinced — that the people
of Germany were in perfect sympathy and accord with England
and France at this moment (cheers). It was this that made
him proud of being au Englishman, feeling as he did that uo
Government here could act contrary to the will of the people,
(renewed cheering). It was for want of this principle that
the terrible disturbances on the continent of Europe occurred
in 1830 and 1848. There Governments were overthrown
simply because they were not in accord with the people ; but
in this country the Parliament was the reflex of the feeliug of
the constituency; Government was the result of the will of
Parliament ; and thus, in fact, the people constituted the Go-
vernment of this country. If the Governments of Germany
had acted with the sane feeling as the English people had
done, if they had shown their strength in the first place,
Russia would have been a Power weak even as a child, and
would have inspired no fear (cheers). One's only hope was
that to meet the demand of this great struggle some man of
genius and of power might arise equal to the emergency,
and at once bring the contest to a close. Should the Allies
be successful in the Crimea, what was there to prevent them
from carrying their victorious arms into Asia itself, and
there encounter the enemy in his steppes and fastnesses,
with the same irresistible result ? But, furthermore, why
should we not again call into being that great nation
which, rnore than any other, would form a barrier against
Russian aggression ? Let us at once restore the kingdom cf
Poland (loud cheers). It was the natural barrier between the
civilized nations of Europe and the semi-barbarous despoti.sm
of Russia (Hear, hear). He threw these thoughts out somewhat
at random; they might be deemed Utopian and wild ideas
(cries of '' No, no") ; still, if they could not approach the heart
of Rqssia and crush it in its solidity, let them at least cripple
it at its extremities by lopping off limb by liaib. He looked
upon the spoliation of Poland as a crime to be expiated ; for,
though the Western nations were no participants in the spoil,
yet they looked acquiescently on, while the great military
powers, Austria, Russia, and Prussia, appropriated that
territory among them. The importance of Poland as an
integral Power of Europe could scarcely be over-estimated ;
it extended on the one side froni the Baltic to the Black Sea
on the other, and those provinces of it which had been anpexed
to Russia contained a most v/arlike population, not a man
among whom, if he had the opportunity, would not gladly
leave the coerced servitude he now rendered the Czar. The
idea he had thvis ventured to suggest was one which he knew
met with the cordial sympathies of the French people, and
they might deppnd upon it that in directing their views to the
accomplishment pf a great object like that of restoring a
people to its nationalities and rights was a far better course to
pursue than that of following a buccaneering expedition against
harmless villages, and the capture of barks engaged in peaceful
cqmmerce. He had received a letter from one of his conatitu-
euta at Boston, complaining of the detention of a vessel
freighted by himself. That was not the course to be pursued
by a great nation, They should rememher the words of th?

illustrious warrior, who declared that England could not afford
to have a little war. No doubt great disappointment would
be experienced at finding the noble fleet and its gallant crew
returning from the Baltic Sea without having achieved more
than they had; he blamed not, however, the gallant com-
mander. Explanations would probably be readily afforded why
the expectations of the country had been disappointed, and
why those exploits which were anticipated had not been accom-
plished ; for it was expected that when England undertook a
war, it would be upon a grand and splendid scale (cheers).

Various other toasts were then given, and the proceedings
terminated.

LORD BERNERS ON AGRICULTURAL
STATISTICS.

His Lordship has addressed the following letter to one of
the relieving oflicers of the Billesdon Union : —

" Keythorpe Hall, Tugby, Leicester,
" Sept. 26, 1854.

" Sir, — I have ordered the schedule for agricultural statis-
tics, which I received last week at the board of guardians, for
lands in my occupation^ to be filled up as accurately as pos-
sible, and delivered to you the first time you passed, as it
might possibly serve as a pattern for others. Should you
find any parties with whom I am connected doubting the pro-
priety of filling up the returns, you are at hberty to repeat
what I stated at the board as my opinion on the subject —

1st. " That no harm could result from the measure, but that
much good might accrue.

2nd. " Had a true statement of the numbers employed in
depending upon, or interested in agriculture, together with the
amount of capital employed by them, and the value of their
produce, been of late years more generally known, we never
should have had those virulent'attacks upon the agriculturists
which have prevailed of late. Their actual position would
have been recognized.

" I never fear the promulgation of truth, and am perfectly
satisfied that a thorough knowledge of the actual value of agri-
cultural produce from year to year would have the tendency
to prevent many of the panics and fluctuations in the value of
our produce we have of late years experienced.

"For instance, lately in one fortnight wheat fell 8s. to lOs.
per quarter, and nearly a corresponding rise during the last
two weeks, the first caused by a consideration of the abun-
dant harvest and the extraordinary propitious weather Pro-
vidence has vouchsafed to us, without having regard to the
produce or requirements of other countries, the failure of
Indian corn in six of the United States of America, the limited
imports of corn |from other countries as compared to those of
the corresponding mouth, quarter, or year of other seasons,
the small quantity of stock in hand in the various parts of
the country, and the probable demand in other countries •
consequently all needy sellers suffered a loss, which a more
perfect knowledge of the state of markets, and probable rate
of supply and demantl, throughout this and other countries,
would have obviated.

" I am, your well-wisher,

(Signed) " BEUNEEg.

"To Mr. W. Harrison, relieving officer,
" Billesdon Union,"

430

J?HE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

TELFER VERSUS CAIRD. — THE AYRSHIRE HAY CROP.

There is a story told of a coachman in days
of yore, who, with a very heavy load, had but a
sorry team to work on. Rushers going off with a
jump that threatened to break through everything,
and then bolting or jibbing to one side or the other
directly they were fairly forced up to the collar. In
vain did he try to pull them together, and make a
respectable appearance in the eyes of the public.
Equally unavailing the fine hand or double thong
on them ; like pigs fighting, they were going all
ways at once, and never pleasantly v/ith each other.
It was palpably but labour thrown away ; and so
at length dropping his hand, the artist exclaimed
in despair, " there ! divide it among you, for I'll
be bothered no longer!"

One feels half inclined to treat the Ayrshire hay
crop in the same fashion. A terrible load it is, no
doubt, while there is no getting those who put it to-
gether to go handsomely away with it. Yv'hat bolting
and jibbing, this side or the other, has followed the
grand rush with which it was started ! In vain
now every effort to make them pull together.
What one " authority" affirms this week was done,
his "authority," again, the next week, assures vis
never has been done. How curious to notice the
extraordinary efforts made to turn dry hay back
again into green grass ! How amusing the desire
to sink the five-and-twenty tons recorded into
twenty only ! and how yet more ingenious the com-
plicated calculation which has made so much hay
from so much grass, where there was no hay made
at all ! Well might we drop our hand to them,
and let them fight it out one with another — " divide
it amongst you, for we'll be bothered no longer."

The further we get into the facts of Mr. Telfer's
. hay crop, the more do we come to this. The more
we are enabled to force explanation, the more
direct becomes the difference between Mr. Telfer
and Mr. Caird, The latter, on the strength of a
passing conversation in the crowd assembled at the
Tiptree gathering, gives, with all the confidence of
a man thoroughly acquainted with what he was de-
tailing, an astounding achievement, for which at
the time he names no higher authority than him-
self. Armed with this, he holds out an example to
the farmers of England as to what they should do
froni what lias been done! The involuntary derision
with which this lesson v/as received turns out very
soon to have been perfectly justified. What Mr.
Caird declared so emphatically had been done,
never has been done ; and his agricultural possibility
— so far, at any rate — turns out to be what every-

body from the first considered it, an agricultural
impossibility.

We might well rest satisfied here. Having done
our duty in showing up an unwarrantable exaggera-
tion attempted to be palmed on the farmers of the
kingdom, we have nothing to do with the onus of
this affair, as it now rests between Messrs. Telfer and
Caird. Enough for us that v/e have been enabled
to arrive at something like the real truth of the
case. Mr. Caird, however, in a second explanation
having thought proper to attack us for the course
we have taken, we shall deign a word or two further
to him ; leaving him, as we have already intimated,
to settle with Mr. Telfer how far he was armed with
facts somewhere so strangely exaggerated. Mr.
Caird, then, commences thus : " Somehow or other,
though the political question is at an end, there are
certain persons connected with the agricultural in-
terest who resolve to make me stand ill with the
English farmers." In answer to this we would
simply ask what Mr. Caird has ever done to make
him stand well with the English farmers ? As
Blackivood said of him years back, his public
sayings and doings from the very first have been
marked by " an under-current of foolish sneering"
at the agriculturist, either English or Scotch. It
is Mr. Caird himself who makes Mr. Caird stand
so ill with the English farmers. Mr. Caird, of
Baldon, a strange complication of assurance and
prejudice, who has set himself up as the self-
constituted judge of British farmers, and who has
scarcely ever attempted to carry out an argument
but that it might be made to tell against them. Mr.
Caird, the trumpeter of amateurs and theorists,
who proves so glibly the English farmer to be a
sloth and a stand-still — by proving nothing ! We
believe we are justified in recording that Mr. Caird's
public life has been little short of one continued
libel on the agriculturists of this kingdom; and
that if he does stand ill with them, he has none but
himself to thank.

But then Mr. Caird is " an agricultural teacher,"
and has so a right to find fault. And pray who
made him one ? Does he take his diploma from
Scotland, the scene of his own quondam operations,
and whence he still draws his miracles ? We
are assured on the best practical authority that
Mr. Caird is far less recognised as an authority
in Scotland than he even is here. Who is it,
then, whose invincible confidence has placed Mr,
Caird in that exalted position to which he so
complacently assumes ? The English farmer ?

THE FARMER^S MAGAZINE.

431

No. The Scotch farmer ? No. We really scarcely
know whom to name, without it be our friend
of the Gardener's Chronicle. He is of the faithful
indeed ! while we are almost afraid his recent
reference to Basil Hall will only tend the more
to impress upon us a very old joke in the service.
Our contempoi-ary will find frequent allusion to it
in the gallant captain's works. AVhenever a sailor
attempts to spin his messmates rather too tough a
yarn, he is politely requested to " tell that to the
marines." For the future, whenever we hear any-
thing over-marvellous about agriculture, wr may
save ourselves a deal of trouble by requesting they
will" telWA«^to the Gardener's Chronicle" \

Mr. Caird objects to the tone and terms used
towards him by ourselves, and the correspondents
of the Mark Lane Express, at the same time that
he wishes us " to speak out like men." We beg to
assure Mr. Caird that we mean to speak out, not
wildly, nor as braggarts, but " like men," who will
be prepared at any time hereafter to stand to what
they say. In accordance with this, we will admit
that, considering the tone which has so long cha-
racterized Mr. Caird's own efifusions, he is just
about the last man alive on whom we should exer-
cise any over-refinement in what we had to say to
him. On the other hand, we have allowed the
practical men of the kingdom to meet him on his
own terms, and, as he has it, to " speak out."

Mr. Caird " throws back our insinuations v>'ith
disdain and contempt." We make no insinuations,
but come, if you please, to direct facts and charges;
while, as to the contempt of Mr. Caird, that, con-
sidering all things, is a matter of no great moment.
It is the public we look to for a verdict, and we are
quite willing to let them mete out the measure of
contempt either of us may have earned in this
aflFair. Contempt, Mr. Caird, should be the ulti-
mate reward of mere assumption and pretence.

With another letter from "An Agriculturist,"
which to a great degree embodies any further reply
we might feel called upon to make, we here leave,
at least for the present, this extraordinary busi-
ness. We by no means regret the time and space
we have given to its investigation, feeling as we do
that good must come of it. At the same time, we
may add that we may even again return to the
subject should we, in our search for facts, feel it
necessary to do so.

Sir, — The space you have already allowed to commu-
nications to prove the impossibility of growing 23 tons
of dried hay per Scotch acre, or 21 tons per English
acre, (as asserted by Mr. Caird at the Tiptree Hall
gathering), and to elicit the fact that Mr. Telfer never
grew such a crop, has been liberal. The subject de-
served it, and the mind of the agriculturist is in some

measure assuaged. I am, therefore, reluctant to obtrude
further on your space ; but as there appears to be some
discrepancy between the data of Mr. Telfer's letter to
you of the 9th instant and mine of the 25th ultimo, I am
anxious, as far as possible, to clear it up. In my com-
munication of last Monday, I intimated my intention of
writing to that gentleman for this purpose ; but, on
reflection, I perceived that this would bring us into per-
sonal collision, which it is desirable to avoid, and I
think it unnecessary ; for, when writing the hurried
letter of last Monday, I was under the impression that
his statement was a more serious contradiction of the
facts stated by me, than, on a second perusal, I found it
to be, and I think I can show that bis premises are par-
tial and his reasoning illogical.

Mr. Teifer says that the facts given to Mr. Caird
were, " that my cuttings had reached 65 tons of grass
per Scotch acre, which, in my experience, were equiva-
lent to 20 tons of hay." Now, this supposed equivalent
is a meagre substitute for 25 tons of dried hay ; but it
is one step on the toilsome road to facts. But then
Mr. Telfer adds, that it is onlj " by the 30th October"
that he will have cut " 65 tons of grass per acre, and
upwards" — meaning thereby, I infer, a fraction over or
under that quantity. Mr. Caird, however, told us, that
this had been done at three cuttings by the 26th of July
last : so that, hy his data, Mr. Telfer's cuttings ought,
by the 30th October, to be 80 tons and upwards. And
following this up, according to the experiment of
Mr. Dickenson, adduced by Mr. Telfer, that 12 tons 8
cwt. of grass gave 5 tons 18 cwt. of hay, these 80 tons
of grass should produce an equivalent of 38 tons of hay :
while Mr. Dickenson himself, in a letter in to-day's
Gardeners' Chronicle, says that it is only possible to
grow as much of his Italian rye-grass upon a Scotch
acre of good land in one year, as will produce 20 tons
of hay — equal to 16 tons per statute acre. These are
wide discrepancies indeed, not very easy to reconcile !

Mr. Telfer nest "supposes there is a general mis-
apprehension regarding the grass required to make
a ton of hay." We are not aware of the existence
of any such "general misapprehension;" nor has any
evidence of it appeared in the present controversy. But
if the supposition were correct, though it might affect a
discussion on the theory of conversion, it can hsive no
bearing on an inquiry into physical facts. It there-
fore appears beside the question for Mr. Telfer to ad-
duce the results of his own trials, or of Mr. Dickenson's
experiments, or the analysis of Dr. Anderson or Pro-
fessor Way. If such points were pertinent to the matter
in hand, I would add that the grass of the Edinburgh
meadows contains 88 per cent, of water, and that, con-
sequently, 100 tons of it would only produce 12 tons of
hay; or that, in 1842, I cut at the rate of 52 cwt. of
grass per acre otf a meadow in Cheshire, which yielded
at the rate of 28 cwt. of hay (equivalent to 35 tons of
hay for 65 tons of grass), the grass being in an ad-
vanced state of ripeness, and scourged by a
six weeks' continuous sun — so much so, that it was
at once raked into cocks as cut, and carted into rick
on the following day. It must, therefore, be

432

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

evident to every oue'a common sense, that the stage
of growth of the grass when cut, the state of
the weather, and many other circumstances, must
make the quantity required to produce a given weight of
hay vary so much as to leave no fixed criterion. In
fact, not only will the quantities vary on different
soils, though cut at the same period of the same season,
but the relative equivalents of grass to hay produced by
the same field will be found to differ one year from an-
other. Had Mr. Telfer, instead of confining his experi-
ment to one cutting, as I infer he did, continued his
cuttings from the same piece of land, say one acre,
throughout the season, turning each cutting into
hay successively as cut, he might then, and then only,
have adduced his experiment as one leading to a sound
conclusion.

Those who are acquainted with Mr. Telfer's opera-
tions are aware that, as an amateur farmer, he has done
much to illustrate agricultural possibilities, and that
his neighbour, Mr. Caird, has done nothing in imitation.
It seems, therefore, unnecessary that Mr. Telfer should
lend even the cautious connivance, which by his letter
he appears to do, to Mr. Caird's exaggera-
tions, or join him in the mistaken belief in the
credulity of the public. He may safely leave these
onerous duties to the agricultural editor of the Gardeners^
Chronicle, as he is not afraid openly to own that the
perpetrator of an erroneous statement, uttered but not
retracted, maybe excused, because he has done previous
good service as an " agricultural teacher." Verily, it
is time that the science and practice of agriculture were
taught and illustrated at our " common schools,"— as
lately recommended by this writer in his admirable lec-
ture at St, Martin's Hall — so that the rising generation
may be proof, if not against false theories, at least
against Actions issued into circulation without hesitation,
and continued without compunction. False teaching o^
any kind is sinister, at best ; and teaching but to mislead
in the practical business of life is, as Mr. Beale Brown
has emphatically said, " most wicked." Fortunately,
in this case, sir, we find the antidote in your columns ;
and I doubt not but that it will save many of the less
practical owners of land from delusive expectations, and
the occupiers from unreasonable exactions. If any
should think that we under-estimateMr. Caird's teaching,
let them enquire how he is appreciated at home, and they
will find an answer in Blackwood's Magazine for April,
1850, under the title of " Caird's High Farming har-
rowed." His agricultural wonders, however, have neve^
ceased to be dunned into our ears ; they demand faith,
and can dispense with investigation ; they court admira-
tion, even where they do not exact adoption. Thus, at
Tiptree Farm, he says, " Mr. Mechi's Italian ryegrass
is his only unsuccessful crop ;" and yet, with this ac-
knowledged failure staring us in the face, and that, too,
in a season which Mr. Telfer says " has been peculiarly
favourable to the growth of Italian ryegrass :" this is the
crop of crops, and his the appliances so commended to
our special adoptioUj and in support of which a fictitious
crop is foisted upon us from the other side of the
Tweed !

And now that we have got before us Mr. Telfer, The
Gardeners' Chronicle, Mr. Dickenson, and Mr. Caird
himself, what tangible and undeniable facts have we
arrived at. In what character was Mr. Caird called
upon to address us at Mr. Mechi's ? Why, solely as
an " agricultural teacher ;" and did he not, in the whole
manner of his address, sustain his character to perfec-
tion ! Did he not, from beginning to end, speak of the
" 25 tons of dried hay" as a fait accompli, and as from
his own personal and practical knowledge, and endeavour
to impress the company with the conviction that he did
so ? On any other supposition, the tone and temper of
his speech would have been ridiculous, apart altogether
from the subject-matter of it. Mr. Telfer's name was
never mentioned ; and it was only by strong expres-
sions of incredulity by the company that Mr. Caird was
driven to fortify his personal authority (which, up to
that moment, he may have considered to be, singly,
omnipotent, at a party of English landlords and farmers)
by turning round and throwing out his arm towards the
place where Mr. Telfer sat, and exclaiming, " Gentle-
men, here's a living v/itness." Not, mark you, sir,
" Here is Mr. Telfer, the gentleman upon whose farm
the crop was grown, and from whom I had the state-
ment to-day." No, that would not have suited Mr.
Caird's ideas, nor the character in which he was
addressing the agricultural sciolists, by whom he
presumed he was surrounded. The whole proceeding
was unworthy of one holding Mr. Caird's position ;
his want of due courtesy towards Mr. Telfer — his
attempt to ride into the goal upon Mr. Telfer's
shoulders — and his unacknowledged use of the most
startling facts (?), furnished to him only a few hours
before by that gentleman, was not in keeping with the
way we usually do things in England, or desire to see
them done.

Mr. Caird (in his letter in the Gardeners' Chronicle
of last week) complains that Mr. Telfer did not correct
him while making his speech : this is a question solely
between these two gentlemen. Perhaps Mr. Telfer
thought he was consulting Mr. Caird's own wishes by
allowing him to make as much capital out of his opera-
tions as be could do with impunity ; and the good feel-
ing which restrained the company generally from turn-
ing Mr. Mechi's hospitable board into a debating arena
is correctly interpreted in Mr. Beale Browne's letter—
" respect for our friend Mechi."

The result of this discussion, or rather investigation,
may now be summed up in three lines : —

I. Mr. Telfer never makes hay.

II. Twenty-fife tons never were made off a Scotch
acre.

III. Mr. Caird teaches, from hear-say, things incor-
rect, and things impossible.

And now let me ask, in all earnestness, ivhen are we
to place dependence on Mr. Caird's teaching ?

October Mth, 1854. An Agriculturist.

P.S. In my letter of the 25th ult., the following
sentence should '^have read thus: — " Mr. Telfer never
makes hag, nor does he allege ever having cut more than
70 tons of Italian ryegrass per Scotch acre, which, if
converted into hay, he thinks would produce about 11
tons per statute acre,"

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

433

THE FLOUR TRADE

Sir, — A great many complaints have of late been
made that the price of flour and bread have not been
lowered in accordance with the reduction in the price of
wheat ; and, further, that the public generally are not
supplied with this main article of subsistence so efficiently
and so cheaply as they ought to be, owing to the rapa-
ciousness and monopolizing practices of millers, corn-
dealers, and bakers. The newspapers have, to some
extent, favoured such sentiments ; and in Nottingham,
Exeter, and other places, it has resulted in rioting, de-
struction of bakers' shops, and other property.

A question arises, How are the public to know that
they only pay that price which is fair and remunerating
to those engaged in the trade ? The reply to this is,
that the principle of competition is quite sufficient to
bring the price to as low a point as the nature of the
thing will permit. Millering is a trade open to all : no
particular mystery attends it. The price of flour is
what all (particularly the labouring classes, who are the
great consumers) are intent on procuring as low as pos-
sible; and under such circumstances it is not surprising,
and it really is the fact, that competition is frequently
carried to such an extent that the price charged to the
public does not yield a fair remuneration to those
engaged in the trade. I believe it to be a fact of no un-
frequent occurrence, that the stone of flour or the loaf
is sold at a Id. or 2d. below the real cost of the article.
Contracts are sometimes made in this way, and the issue
generally is the loss or, probably, failure of the con-
tractor ; and rarely indeed is there such an occurrence
as a want of parties to compete, or that competition
failed in reducing the price to the lowest it can possibly
be afforded for.

There are, however, some matters connected with this
trade which need improvement, and if so improved
would tend ultimately to the public being supplied at a
less cost, which really is the desideratum.

1st. The public ought to require that the article is
good, and insisting on this point will tend to produce a
better article : it is surprising how indifferent many are
to this. If the bread is not good, the defect ought to be
ascertained and remedied : it may be the flour, but this
is not so generally the case as is imagined ; there is the
yeast, the kneading, the time allowed for fermentation,
the water, &c. } and unless all these are good and at-
tended to, the bread is sure to be deficient.

2nd. The public ought always to pay ready-money
for flour and bread. No credit should exist on such a
large consumable article ; wages are generally paid
weekly ; the farmers claim and obtain ready-money for
their produce ; and if the miller does not adhere to the
same, a large charge for credit and bad debts must ul-
timately come upon the ready-money customer.

3rd. Speculation in this article is to be reprehended.
A system prevails, that not only the baker and small
shopkeeper, but many heads of families must have their

opinion as to the rise and fall of markets. An idea gets
out (whether it be right or wrong does not bear on the
argument) that corn is going to rise, and orders come in
to the miller for double the usual quantity ; at other
times there is a corresponding want of orders, from the
opposite idea prevailing. Now, it is obvious that an
irregular demand arising from the capriciousness or
cupidity of customers cannot be supplied so cheaply as
one which is regular and continuous, and this system
injures the trade, and is generally of no advantage to the
parties themselves. Speculation is the same in principle
where a man gets 20 stone of flour into his house instead
of 10 stone, which is his usual order, as in the man who
is hoarding up thousands of quarters. I am not giving
an opinion as to the advantage or disadvantage of specu-
lation, but that it is injurious in its operation on the
ought-to-be regular trade of the miller. I am inclined
to the opinion that the real results and tendencies of
large speculators in corn (not entering into the argument
as to whether it is right to speculate in corn) are
generally beneficial to the public, but injurious and often
ruinous ro the speculators themselves.

4th. The public ought to find their own sacks ; the
neglect of this leads to a waste of property, which, to
the uninitiated, it is difficult to understand. As the trade
is generally conducted, every small shop and family
have a few sacks belonging to the miller, and which the
customer is bound either to pay for or return, and which
probably he intends to do ; but, in reality, these sacks
are used for great coats, hearth rugs, cart covers, filled
with potatoes, chips, supply the ragman and the paper-
mill, and this at a cost to some of the millers of sums
varying from ^^50 to .£500 per annum, and all of which
has ultimately to come out of the price of the flour, and
arises from a neglect of honesty and tidiness in small
things. In some instances, millers get paid for sacks,
or conduct their trade v/ithout lending them ; but these
are exceptions to what generally prevails.

5th. Amongst the millers themselves there occasion-
ally arise leviathan concerns of immense magnitude,
that threaten for awhile to swallow up all the small fry,
one man or one company attempting to monopolise the
trade in a district. These concerns generally fall in
pieces from their own inherent weakness, and never
answer in the long run. These are some, amongst others
which might be named, of matters which attend the
trade, and tend to render it unprofitable. It is a fact
that the capital invested in it yields miserably poor in-
terest. I occupy a mill in a good situation, on an
excellent stream of water, which does not, and has not
since its erection forty years ago, paid H per cent, on
the original outlay. The adjoining large water corn-
mill lies totally unoccupied ; and these are but a sample
of mill property generally. At most of the surrounding
towns, corn-mills are closed, as bad, unpaying property ;
the principal reason for which may be fouad in the fact,

434

THE FARMER-'S MAGAZINE.

that owing to the excess of competition, the price
charged to the public does not yield a fair remuneration
to those engaged in the trade. Another fact which
bears upon this subject is the wages of the workmen :
there is scarcely any class of workmen who receive less
remuneration than those employed by millers and bakers.
Not that we would have them paid according to any
consideration of their own intrinsic merits ; but they
surely ought to be paid in some degree of accordance to
the services they render to the community. The real
cause of their wages being so low — and the employment
is not of a very healthy kind — is that the masters are
not unwilling, but unable to pay liberal wages.

6th. The system of working flour-mills the night
through is perfectly indefensible. Mill power is in
ample supply, or there would not be so many un-
employed ; and therefore the working at nights can only
arise from cupidity, or a desire to get his neighbour's
business, and generally defeats its own purpose. It is
unnatural in itself, injurious to the men, injures the
trade, and can only be justified as an occasional thing,
under extreme pressure, and to be given up as soon as

that is past. The Legislature in some case interferes to
prevent night working in factories, and there is no
reason why that interference should not be extended to
corn-mills.

There is no part of the world where the millering art
is carried to greater perfection than in this country, and
no country where the working classes are provided with
a better article of bread, and at a price fully as low as
the pi'ice of wheat will permit. There are more
hands employed in it than is generally supposed — for
this reason, that scarcely any part of the country is
without a mill ; it is not a trade that can be concentrated
to any one spot. Every candid mind who examines
into this subject will have no great difficulty in ascer-
taining that millers and bakers are a part of the com-
munity whose services to the public are of the utmost
importance, whose remuneration is of the very lowest
nature, and that the calumnies heaped on them arise
from ignorance of the real facts of the case.

I am, Sir, your obedient servant,

J. Peart.

Yorlc, October 18tk, 1854.

SACKS.

Sir, — There ai"C certain established practices in
society so firmly and unquestionably fixed, that they are
"like the laws of the Medes and Persians that alter
not," and few maxims are more important to be incul-
cated, especially to young persons, than that of " letting
well alone." Innovators are at all times to be guarded
against, since there is nothing more common than for a
person that has not learned one-half of his own proper
business to overleap the other half, and begin at once to
make what he deems improvements upon the practice of
those who have gone before them. Still there are cir-
cumstances in which one may be placed, and points at
which we may have arrived, that demand bold and
abrupt deviations from what prudence would otherwise
have dictated. The sack has been used from time im-
memorial for corn and other dry goods ; hence we read
of the sons of Jacob filling their sacks at Pharaoh's
granaries, much in the same fashion as our town millers
would do at a farmer's barn at the present day ; and
although we read of the great improvement that tin cases
are, in the keeping of flour for long voyages, and see
every day the American flour packed in wood, he would
be considered a rash man, and one whose feelings were
not worthy of his fatherland, that would seek to change
the time-honoured practice of taking corn to market in
the hempen bag, or of selling flour by the sack.

Sacks seem to have been made for such things, and
have long — very long, indeed — been kept to them ; but
a time came when wise and well-educated men of enter-
prising minds, and calculating the consequences, had
sacks made, and filled them with earth, and by that
means paved a quagmire in Chatmoss that has ever
since borne firmly the iron tramway between Liverpool
and Manchester. A still greater degradation awaited

the sack in the new trade in guano ; the excrement of
sea-birds was sswed up in sacks, and sent thousands of
miles; and on its ariiva! in our ports, the strength of its
stinking capacities was tested by gentlemen educated
at colleges, and the price rose -or fell as the flavour of
the imported filth was above or under par in its pro-
portion of ammonia. The sack has thus, step by step,
got from flour and corn, down to earth, for railways,
and fertilisers (as they are fashionably styled) for
farmers.

There is now lying before me a printed paper, with
engravings by a French nobleman, of a sack filled with
60 ounces of cork cuttings, and so ingeniously folded
that an emigrant or seafaring man may use it as a
cushion to sit upon, and in an instant employ it as a life
belt to prevent him from drowning. The sail of canvas
has always been a powerful wind instrument, and the
tented warrior has good reason to be proud of the canvas
over his head, if it is really found to be waterproof; but
the canvas for all this had not had its qualities tested
until the hose-pipe was made of hemp, and by dint of
real good v/eaving and stitching together, was found by
far the most convenient and economical water-carrier
that had been tried. And what is this, after all, but a long
sack without a bottom ? and if it were chopped up into
short sacks, each having its mouth well secured, a
common dung-cart could be loaded with clean water in
sacks, just as convenient as it could with corn. I
emptied the contents of an expensive iron water-cart, the
other day, into a hose pipe of this nature, and the whole
of the three hogsheads of water lay in the sack or hose,
and in that state could have been carted in an ordinary
cart for miles if necessary ; but it is not to this that I
wish to direct attention now, but to the important fact

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

435

that a bona fide com sack can be made of such materials
and sewed in such a way as to carry water neatly to
supply the water-drill in the scorching sunny day, when
turnips have to be sown, and after spending a little time
on a gorse bush or on a thorn hedge to dry, be found
clean and fair for barn work in winter. But let us go
one step further, and I think we shall then have reached
the bottom of the ladder, where the sack can fall no
lower, and see that since dry fertilisers have been
counted worthy of sackcloth, whether it might not pay
the farmer well to put his liquid fertilisers into vessels
of some kind, and convey them to the scene of action.
Manure, dry enough to admit of its being carted to the
field, is likely to hold its place as the mainstay of agri-
culture generally; although some have done wonders
with liquid manure, pumped by expensive apparatus
over the land ; and it is only as a help to the dung-cart,
and not as a substitute for it, that liquid manure pu^
into water-tight sacks should be carried and spread,

either entire or diluted with clean water, or mixed with
earth. I consider that the power of being able to carry
liquids in sacks, and consequently in great bulk in ordi-
nary farm carts, will turn out of immense importance to
the horticulture of this country, as well as to its agri-
culture, since the little farmer at a slack time could, in
his small way, carry liquid manure short distances, with
great benefit to his crops, and without any high pressure
engines, tanks, pipes, or hydrates, which for reasons
best known to himself he declines to employ. Insurance
offices should press this style of thing to be kept where
their interests are at stake; for there are scarcely as many
stable buckets or other suitable vessels for carrying
water kept at any ordinary farm*house as would be
sufficient to quench a chimney that had caught fire;
whereas a sturdy yeoman, with half a sack of water on
his back , would go up a ladder, and damp things in such
a way as would not require to be repeated.

A. Forsyth.

FOOT-ROT IN SHEEP

Sir, — In your last appears the report of a discussion on
the foot-rot in sheep, at Mr. Watkins's ram sale lately ; ex-
cuse my troubling you with a few remarks on this disease, from
opportunities of observing it in Merino flocks in Germany.

Flockmasters in that country separate the diseases in-
cidental to the foot of the sheep into two kinds — infectious
and non-infectious ; or better, into the virulent and the mild
foot-rot ; for although the common foot-rot is there considered
by some to be non-infectious, it is perhaps only comparatively
so, being attended with little or no danger, and often disappear-
ing without the application of a remedy, although through
neglect it may degenerate into the virulent or infectious state.
Ttie following remarks relate, I think, to the disease alluded
to by Mr. Watkins, and wliich he supposes to have been
introduced into England of late years ; in Germany, they trace
its origin in that country to the introduction of the Merino
sheep. It first shows itself in the limping gait of the animal,
which gradually increases ; generally commencing with one
of the fore feet, afterwards both are affected, and at last
this lameness extends ^to the hinder feet, with increasing
bodily weakness.

The diseased foot is hot, and is often swollen round the
hoof, which is more open or wider apart than on the sound
foot, and the skin of the coronet is inflamed. An unpleasant
smelling humour exudes, which thickens on exposure to the
atmosphere, and not only inflames and destroys the imme-
diately surrounding skin, but often penetrates between the
horn of the hoof and the foot itself, the horny part partially
separating from the flesh ; and in the worst cases an entire
separation of the hoof takes place, and, if neglected, destroying
the muscles and sinews, and attacking even the bones of the
feet ; in which condition the poor animal moves about on its
knees, or helplessly lies down, the whole system gradually
becomes poisoned, and although generally with unimpaired
appetite, it wastes away until death releases it from suffering.

The worst form of this disease is not so often met with m
the coarser Merino flocks, as in those where every care is
taken in improving the fineness and quality of wool, by which
means they are rendered more susceptible to the changes of
temperature and weather. It is of a very infectious nature,
if proper precaution be not taken, spreading through an entire

flock in a month or two, and is often introduced by merely
driving sound sheep over land where diseased sheep have been
a short time previouslj^

Precaution is the oldest and best remedy ; but thorough
cleanliness, wholesome food, and attention to the flock in wet
and inclement weather, will not always keep the disease away,
as long as there are so many channels for introducing it :
should it exist in the neighbourhood, the shepherd must keep
a vigilant eye on his flock ; a sheep observed to be lame must
be immediately examined. If a small eruption or pimple
appears on the skin between the hoofs (coronet), and the foot
is unnaturally hot, the disease has made its appearance, and
no time must be lost in applying a remedy ; the diseased
sheep must be kept by itself, and all the flock very carefully ex-
amined.

With a sharp knife remove the scab or pimple, clean out the
wound to the sound flesh, wash it with salt and water, and
then do it over with strong nitric acid. If the disease has
advanced under the horn of the hoof, all the unsound flesh,
together with the horn, must be carefully removed, the wound
washed out with brine, and strong nitric acid applied ; some
recommend using sulphate of copper instead of brine, and
butter of antimony in the place of nitric acid ; but with the
brine and acid a cure is generally effected in eight or nine
days. Another remedy is a concentrated solution of chloride
of calcium dissolved in water: after the feet are well washed
and cleaned, and all diseased parts removed, they are carefully
painted over with the chloride, as far as the ankle-joint, using
a small painter's brush for the purpose ; and it is best to apply
it also to those which have only heat in their feet. It is a safe
and good remedy.

An old German shepherd recommends a composition con-
sisting of several ingredients ; but a method of destroying the
virus of the disease by electro-chemical action, and the pre-
servative effects of water, deserve investigation. The process
is simple, and is said by those who have tried it to answer
completely ; but, having never seen it applied, I must not
trespass further on your valuable space, and am, sir, your moat
obedient servant, John P. Rubie.

1, Dorset-place, Southmtiplon, Sept. 28.

G G

436

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

ON THE USE OF TOV\^N SEWAGE AS MANURE.

The paper by Professor Way, in the last number
of the Journal of the Royal Agricultural Society
" On the use of town sewage as manure," renders
it very evident that unless it can be applied in the
liquid form^ we must be content to allow it to run
to waste, and to bear its phosphates and ammonia to
the ocean, to be re-imported in the shape of guano.
He has shewn satisfactorily that all the plans v/hich
have been proposed and patented for converting it
into a portable solid manure are fallacious, in conse-
quence of the large quantity of vv'ater with v/hich it is
diluted, and the fact that after everything has been
done in the way of precipitating and deodorising,
the most valuable ingredients still remain in a state
of solution. He commences with the following
very able statement of the present aspect of the
sewage question.

" The daily increasing desire of the town popu-
lation, to render their habitations more cleanly and
more healthy, and the necessity in which the agri-
culturist finds himself of paying the utmost atten-
tion to the collection and utilising of manure from
every available source, have given this subject,
within the last few y^ars, an amount of interest and
importance which cannot easily be ovei'-stated.
The question is, however, surrounded with practical
difficulties of no ordinary kind, and to some extent
the interests of the two parties are antagonistic —
that of the town population being, by an abundant
use of water to obtain as effectually as possible the
cleansing of their streets and residences, whilst by
these very means the difficulties of turning the
refuse of towns to account in agriculture are very
greatly increased. It is only natural that under
such a condition of things a host of plans should
be proposed, with the view of uniting at once the
interests of health and comfort in the towns with
those of fertility and production in the country.
That many of these should originate in ignorance
and speculation is not to be wondered at ; neither
can we be surprised that the two parties interested
(especially the town population — with whom delay
is disease and death) should gladly catch at any
plan which promises a speedy solution of the diffi-
cult problem. Those who look on with an impar-
tiality due to the absence of all personal interest,
will not fail to see that the urgency of the subject
is powerfully contributing to the adoption of some
impracticable schemes, and that arrangements are
in progress in several localities for the utilising of
town sewage, on plans which betray a total igno-
rance of the nature of that sewage, and which can-

not fail to end in discomfiture and disappointment
to all concerned, and to none more than to the
towns which shall be so unwise as to adopt them."
In treating the subject. Professor Way divides it
into the two following heads— 1, The nature of
sewage, and the circumstances affecting the possi-
bility of employing it economically in agriculture ;
2, The plans proposed, and their prospect of
success. In considering the substances which will
enter into the composition of the sewage of towns,
that is, such portions of their refuse as are capable
of removal in water, he puts out of consideration
many substances — such as bones, offal, blood, and
the various matters resulting from the trades of
tanning, glue boiling, &c., v/hich are either of too
great value to be turned into the sewers, or are of
a nature to render their removal by such means
inadmissible. ' He dismisses also from considera-
tion other substances — such as the excrements of
cows from cow-keeping establishments, because
improved sanitary arrangements, combined with
the extension of railways, are banishing them from
the town to the country ; and the urine of horses
kept in towns, because the greater portion of it is
absorbed by the litter. The sewage v/ater is thus
ultimately reduced to a mixture of the solid and
liquid excrements of the inhabitants, with the water
consumed for domestic and general purposes, and
the rainfall which carries the washings of the
streets. These two last contain some important
manuring matters ; but the value of the street-
washings is confined to granite-paved streets in
towns of a large traffic like London, and the
quantity derivable from both sources is inconsi-
derable, in comparison with the personal refuse of
the population.

The question, therefore, of the value of town
sewage resolves itself into that of the manuring
powers of the liquid and solid excrements of each
head of the population, and the quantity of water
through which these will be diffused. Professor
Way estimates, from analyses performed by him-
self and other chemists, that the liquid and solid
excrements voided by each person in the twenty-
four hours contain 1,000 grains of solid matter;
more than half of which is soluble in water. The
next question is the daily consumption of water
per head by our town population for domestic and
general purposes. It appears, by returns obtained j
by the Board of Health, that the supply by the |
water companies to London is at the rate of twenty
gallons daily to each individual ; and the quantity

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

437

of rain thrown into the sewers is half as much as
the artificial supply. The quantity of water, there-
fore, through which the 1,000 grains of solid ma-
nuring matter will be distributed cannot be less
than 20 gallons, weighing 200 lbs., or 1,400,000
grains. In other words, the solid manuring matter
contained in the faeces and urine will be mixed with
1,400 times its weight of water ; and as more than
half of that solid matter is soluble, if we would sepa-
rate it by mechanical filtration, we must filter 3,000
tons to obtain one ton of dry manure.

This method of estimating the probable compo-
sition of sewage water from the consideration of the
substances which it is likely to contain, has been
resorted to in consequence of the great difficulty,
amounting almost to impossibility, of determining
it by direct examination. The nature of sewage
water varies with the population and with the hour
of the day. To ascertain it with precision, samples
must be taken from many sewers, at many different
times, involving an amount of labour and expense
which no private individual can be expected to
incur. Professor Way, however, has made some
analyses of it, and he gives them accompanied by
this caution, that they apply only to particular
samples and conditions. Two of these are fi'om
Dorset-square and Barrett's-court ; the one repre-
senting a rich, the other a poor neighbourhood.
In both cases the matters contained in solution and
suspension were analyzed separately; and on the
whole the analyses bear out the conclusions de-
duced theoretically from the consideration of the
substances likely to be contained in sewage water.
They shew that the matters important to vegetation
— the ammonia, the phosphoric acid, and the alka-
line salts — are to be looked for chiefly in the soluble
portion. These remarks apply to the present state
of the sewage of London and other large towns.
We shall see hereafter that the proposed sanitary
improvements are not likely to render it more
convertible into a good solid manure.

The sewage water discharged from the sewers
of London, under the present system, differs
from those of towns in which the new system
has been established, being in a more advanced
state of decomposition from the friction and
agitation which it has undergone in its passage
through the sewer, and from the length of time
required to make the passage, exposed to the solvent
powers of atmospheric air and carbonic acid con-
tained in the water. As it issues from the London
sewers it exhibits no visible traces of its origin, but
is merely a slightly-turbid liquor, with a flocculent,
slimy, fibrous matter floating through it, and a
putrid smell, though by no means so bad as might
have been anticipated, the chief odour being that
of sulphuretted hydrogen. " Except in small

towns," says Professor Way, " or under a very
perfect system of drainage in large cities, there
cannot be such a thing as fresh sewage. Faecal
matters begin to decompose immediately they are
voided; and during this change the nitrogenous
matters are being rapidly converted into soluble
ammoniacal compounds, whilst the insoluble organic
matter that escapes decomposition is more and
more assimilated to woody fibre, a substance of
comparatively little value."

In pipe-sewered towns, on the contrary, such as
Rugby and Croydon, the great bulk of faecal
matter comes down at particular hours in the
morning and evening, when the labouring classes
are in their houses ; it is in a much fresher and
more natural state, and at these hours is easily col-
lected in the condition of washed nightsoil. From
the above circumstances, and from the large quan-
tity of water employed, the sewage taken in the
middle of the day at Croydon did not contain in
suspension solid matter sufficient for examination.
The liquid, filtered through paper and evaporated,
yielded to the gallon 53 grains, containing of organic
matter and salts of ammonia 22.63 grains (equal to
2.96 grains of ammonia), of phosphoric acid 1.54
grains (equal to 3.53 grains of phosphate of lime),
of soda 1.33 grains, and of potash 2.17 grains. The
analysis was not carried further. These 53 grains
of manuring matter were dissolved, be it remem-
bered, in 70,000 grains, or more than 1,300 times
their weight of water. A quantity of the solid
matter was collected at the mouth of the Croydon
sewer by means of a flannel bag. It was allowed
to drain as much as possible, and afterwards dried
with all the necessary precautions for analysis. It
yielded of nitrogen 3.27 per cent, (equal to 3.94
per cent, of ammonia). This was the type of the
best result which can be obtained by the mere
mechanical filtration of the sewage in order to
preserve as manure the solid matter which it holds
in suspension. The change of the nitrogenous
matters by decomposition from the sohd to the
liquid state had not yet taken place, and the sub-
stance may therefore be considered as representing
pure night-soil, out of which the soluble matters
had been washed, as they always will be in sewers,
by the abundance of water used. Yet here there
is only a per-centage of 3.27 of nitrogen, or 3.94 of
ammonia, on the absolutely dry product. We may
therefore conclude with Professor Way, that in
neglecting the liquid for the solid matters of sewage
water, we lose by far the largest proportion of the
manuring substances, and that the collection of the
solid matter by filtration will not be a paying spe-
culation, at the price which the product is agricul-
turally worth. His argument is this : It is ad-
mitted to be practically impossible to filter the

G G 2

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

sewage, for the retention of the solid matter, with-
out the use of some material, such as charcoal ;
and even supposing it were possible, some subse-
quent addition ^yould be necessary to faciUtate the
economical drying of the product; for to dry off
the water from feecal pulp directly, by artificial
heat, would be plainly out of the question. The
substance to be used for this purpose must either be
of greater value agriculturally than the matter sepa-
rated by filtration, or of less : if of less value, then
the product will be of less value than is shewn in
the preceding analysis ; if of greater, then we are
diluting the material of higher value by the addi-
tion of that of less value — in other words, we are
giving to the sewage manure a value which it does

not possess, through the medium of a costly
addition, and this is a commercial absurdity,
unless it can be shewn that the product obtained
by the union of the two is better than either se-
parately.

Such being the diflficulties in the way of making
a good manure from sewage water by filtration, we
shall find that it will be nearly as hopeless to
attempt by chemical treatment to raise the value of
the solid products by arresting a portion of the
valuable manuring substances, which, during the
process of mere filtration, pass oS' in the liquid
state. The consideration of this part of the sub-
ject, however, must be postponed to a future oppor-
tunity.

PLAN FOR CONVERTING THE LIQUID MANURES OF LONDON
INTO A SOLID MANURE, PORTABLE TO ALL PARTS.

The following I wrote, ten years ago, upon the
Sewage of London — and very sorry I was to do it —
in opposition to the ideas of my late friend Mr.
Smith, of Deanston, who then was so intent upon
the rich manures of towns being used in a liquid
form. I could see at that time, as I now see, that
all towns can at all times supply plenty of manures
to the surrounding neighbourhood in a sohd form
and at a cheap rate. I then told Mr. Smith over
and over again, that if he laid pipes down to convey
the sewage away from London, unless he ex-
tended them far away into the country the thing
would be an entire failure. From what took place
in the Fulham market gardens since his pipes
were put down, I was quite correct. It has long
been my opinion that London and all other towns
afford an immense supply of valuable manure,
both in a sohd state and in a hquid. The
smells arising from the open privies in large towns
are the fountains and chimneys of disease, which
at every minute are discharging and separately
producing, and are the very nucleus of all sorts of
disease. A town ought to be more healthy even
than the country, on account of its drainage, were
it not for thoae fountains of disease, privies and
gully-holes communicating with the sewers. There-
fore I consider that a town cannot be at all in a
healthy or perfect state without all privies are for
ever done away with, and every landlord, by law,
made to have water-closets in their stead, and all
gully-holes trapped m a simple way* to stop those
pernicious gases rising under people's noses. We
have too many proofs, in London, that diseases are

* Square buckets of gutta percha, with holes all
over, and filled with charred peat, might do.

at all times the most rife in those localities where
accumulations of filth are the most plentiful, and
where the side stops the drainage. We also have
proofs that where those fountains of disease are
done away with, and where pure water is given to
the inhabitants, little or no disease ever comes there.
The idea of making the inhabitants of the richest
town in the world drink sewer water ! for the
Thames is nothing else in its present state.
Think just for one moment what goes into it: night
soil ; every sort of alkalies from the hospitals, from
manufactories of every sort; tons weight of soot
from off the house-tops weekly ; the liquid from
millions of animals of all sorts ; saying no-
thing of dead dogs and cats, with hundreds of
little steam-boats continually stirring-up this liquid
mass. The Thames is but one living mass of
animalcules, breeding spontaneously from the rich
hquid mass which is every minute pouring into it.
It is said to be filtered before we drink it; but how?
.n large reservoirs, which is nothing but a hot-
water bed to give still more time to a perfect
development of vermin, with a still further ad-
dition of soot. These were my ideas ten years ago,
and they are my ideas now. What has been done
to save this immense waste of rich manure ?
Nothing. I proposed then a simple and easy course
to pursue; and it was this : — That the river Thames
being the lowest level, and the main sewer for
all London on both sides of the town, no-
thmg could be more easy than to run intercepting
sewers parallel with the river on both sides :
on the London side we know that to get below
London Bridge with the intercepting sewer would
be quite impossible, although very easy down to
the bridge.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

439

Once arrived at the bridge, can any engineer
give a reason why a series of four-feet diameter
cast-iron pipes could not be laid down across the
bed of the river to the opposite shore, so as to carry
the whole sewerage of London into the Borough-
side sewer ? The Borough-side sewer from this
point would require to be of larger dimensions ;
and surely engineering is not at such a low ebb as
not to find out an easy track to carry this rich liquid
as far down the river to the less inhabited and
cheapest part where land is of little value.

Once at its destination, and upon one side
of the river — for this would save an immense
expense to have the works altogether — at the
terminus of this main sewer must be an engine-
house, to raise the sewage into a sewer on the
surface, going parallel with the reservoirs on the
south side of them, keeping the reservoirs and
works close to the river. The reservoirs each must
be large enough to take 24 or 48 hours' flow ; their
size must be in proportion to hold the above
number of hours' flow into them — say, five acres
each. The bottom of each reservoir must be well-
drained, with a main drain going through the
centre of all of them. The reason for this is, be-
cause I want to concentrate all the waste or filtered
waters at the end opposite the engine-house, so as
to form a canal for ships to come up to the works
with charred peat (for this is to be my filtering
matter). We have millions of acres of this rich
manure encumbering the earth in many parts of
Ireland as well as in the United Kingdom. We
know that charred peat is a rich manure of itself;
but when the sewer liquid deposit is mixed with
it, no one can doubt but what it will be the richest
of all manures. We are well aware that even the
charred peat will not take up all of those salts whicli
are held in solution by the water. Some engineers
have said that rain-water should not enter into the
sewers intended for manures. I say the rain-water
ought to flow into the sewers, for the simple reason
that from the washing down of the roofs of houses
covering some 35,000 acres of land, the tons of
soot annually must be very great ; besides, soft-
water is absolutely necessary to be mixed with the
hard sewer -water, to disolve the salt sand make it give
up its riches to the charred peat. It is not at all ne-
cessary for me to go into the formation of the drying
houses, which must be on a large scale, and will
take up a long frontage of the river, where ships
can also deposit the charred peat as well as take in
their cargoes of manure. Neither need I say how
I think the manure is to be partially dried, further
than that we can now do anything with hot-water
piping, on however large a scale. As for the filling-
in of large reservoirs with a foot or two of peat,
and the taking of it out with the settlement, nothing

can be more easy than to lay down rails : every-
thing once down would be clockwork itself. The
inhabitants of this great metropolis will then have
their minds eased. I think that we have too many
proofs that fear alone carries off just as many as
the real disease does.

Questions which may arise.

What is to be done with the sewerage beyond or
below London Bridge? The greater part of it
might be brought down to the bridge by a main
intercepting drain as far as the Tower.

Will this great accumulation of impure waters
annoy the neighbourhood at the terminus 5 Cer-
tainly not, on account of the deordorising pro-
perties of the charred peat.

Which is the best peat for this purpose ? The
best peat for this purpose is that which is
richest in decayed vegetation. Tlie best peat we
know of is found in Ireland, covering many
thousand acres; and as for the deodorising pro-
perties, no doubt whatever exists on my mind ; for
in July, 1852, when the thermometer stood at
82 degrees at 9 o'clock in the morning, I covered
the corpse of my dearest relation up to the brim of
the coffin with charred Irish peat, and was enabled
through it to keep the corpse the usual time v/ith-
out danger to myself and others; besides, I proved
this deodoriser long before that, at the London
Mechanics' Institution; also in my hot cucumber
beds, by keeping fish for a week while the glass
stood at 75 degrees. No smell whatever came from
the box until the fish was thrown out from the
middle of the peat. I have recommended it to many
gentlemen for privies, having eflectually used it
myself for twelve months, by only throwing down
about a peck once a-week. It is also used in pig-
geries, cow-houses, and any where where bad smells
come from. Peat ought to be kept in every hospital,
workhouse, &c., for covering dead bodies.

It is now about twelve years ago since the idea of
charring the peat first struck me. Mr. Smith, of
Deanston, told me that it was impossible to get the
drains to keep right in the peat or moss soil of the
Island of Lewis, where he was then draining. I
told him to char it, and send it to this country as a
manure. My letter to him I published afterwards
upon the uses of peat. Shortly after that, the Irish
Amelioration Society started in making charred peat
from the bogs of Ireland. This peat I have used
with the mould of every sort of plant, potatoes,
strawberries, melons, cucumbers, as well as green-
house plants, &c. I may here mention that when
at Lord Middleton's, Pepper Harrow, the ashes of
the peat from the extensive forcing-houses were all
demanded by the bailiff for the growth of carrots
for the deer, and the carrots were the finest I ever
saw from this manure. But when peat is charred,

340

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

and mixed with the sediment and gases of the
sewerage of London, plants of all sorts would grow
in it most luxuriantly, besides being the cheapest
manure. Townspeople then would have a claim on
the farmer : they would tell him that we give you
back all our manure, and at a cheap rate. As it is
now, townspeople eat up everything, and fling
away the manure, which is gold-dust itself to the
land.

I might enlarge to a great extent on the absurdity
and foolish notions of a wealthy country like this,
in sending to every corner ot the globe after
manures, and at a great expense, while we, the
richest-hving people, and consequently producing
the richest manures, allow them all to pollute the
rivers and go to waste. With the land well-drained,
highly-cultivated, all hedges and ditches as they
ought to be, with three-parts of those hedge-trees
done away with, and these wild animals called
*' game" greatly reduced, but not till then, will

England be able to export her grain, instead of
buying in milhons of quarters annually. Have we
not many examples before as — such as Mr. Smith
of Lois Weedon, Mr. Mechi, Mr. Morton, and
hundreds more ? Have we not the whole of the
market-gardeners of London taking five or six
crops annually oft" each acre, the finest vegetables
in the world ? The farmer will smile at the above,
and say " what nonsense : we can't do it : where is
the dung to come from r" This is just what I am
trying at, in this paper, to give you more ; but at the
same time see that your liquid manure is not
growing worthless grass down some ditch, as is to
be seen near to many farm-houses even now.

In conclusion, I beg to say, with charred peat and
town manures properly collected, and sold at a
cheap rate, and in a portable form, Great Britain
and Ireland might bid defiance to the world.
I am. Sir, your most obedient servant,

Camberwell. James Cuthill.

CONOMY OF MANURES

Recent readings and observations have impressed
upon us deeply the persuasion that among the bulk
of our farming community there is a great want of
economy and good management in respect to the
manures which the farm itself might be made to
yield. We are not prepared to go so far as to say,
with Mr. Egerton, in Country Gentleman of Aug.
loth, that " no farmer ever need go off from his
own farm for means to enrich it ;" but we are per-
suaded that very many allow the fertilizing materials
of their vaults, of their sinks, of the droppings of
their cattle, and of their swampy lands, to go to
waste — giving out their richness, not to the fields
and the crops, but to the " desert air." We are per-
suaded that very few farmers are as strenuous about
making and saving all the manure possible on the
fann, as is the Massachusetts farmer of whom we
have recently read, who says, " As to manure, it has
been my constant effort to make and use as much
as possible from the barn-cellar, yard, hog-pen,
vault, sink-drain, &c., always using it the present
(current) season, I keep loam constantly in the
cellar, which is ready to be put to the droppings."
This model farmer commences his winter manage-
ment of his farm manures by carrj'ing one hundred
loads of mud or black earth to the cellar, which he
uses to throw on to the droppings as often as once
a-' week. ,

Our persuasion of argeneral wastefulness and want
t)f econbnty in* ibs'inanbgement df tjje ;ferti]izing
"(natef ials which the farm itself yieldsiW^SjcdnfiiUerai-
]jly deepened by a portion of an extended .ac'coiatd

of an agricultural school in France, and of the farm
attached to it, which we recently met with in an
English journal. In this notice of the school and
the attached farm at Grignon, it is said that there
is little or no outlay for portable or foreign manures
on the farm. Guano has been tried, but poudrette
is preferred, havmg been proved by experiment to
be superior. The English visitor who gives the
occount to which we refer, attempted to persuade
the professors, or those in charge of the farm, that
there might be larger crops and more profits secured
by the use of guano ; but he was met with the asser-
tion that the English farmer did not " conserve "
or economize the manure of the farm like the French
farmer. In this respect, we fear, the American
copies more after the Enghsh than after the French
pattern.

We feel convinced that much larger crops and
larger profits might be secured, if farmers were at
a little more pains to prevent the escape and loss
of their most 'valuable fertilizers. For example,
much valuable manure might be saved from going
to waste, if farmers were at some pains to have all
the urine on their premises absorbed and fixed by
means of meadow muck and other absorbents, or
by running it into tanks. Much valuable manure
might also be made on every farm, by manufactur-
ing the contents of the vault into poudrette. Much
valuable manure might be made, more than usually
i3,>.vf all that is thrown out of horse and cattle
gtables was immediately .mixed up or covered over
^it'b'.teartilu.or: muck, after the manner of the model

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

441

Massachusetts fai'mer, to whom we have already
referred. Much, also, might be saved, which is
now allowed to go to waste, if manure and compost
heaps were more generally put under some kind of
cover to protect them from the destructive influ-
ences of sun and rain and wind. Much might be
done also to enrich the farms throughout the land,
if the rich black muck which the rains of many
former years have washed down into our swamps
and low lands, were carried back again, either by
itself, or still better after having been carried to
barn-yard or cellar, and there mixed with the clean-
ings of the stables, and the droppings of the cattle

and the poultry in the yards, after the manner of
a compost or otherwise.

As long as a farmer suffers all the fertilizing ma-
terials above indicated to make their escape, without
being made to yield their riches to his fields and
crops, he must be suffering leakage and loss. While
the fertilizing materials which the farm itself yields
are neglected and unused, it seems as if it could be
only with an ill grace, and a great want of consist-
ency and good policy that any farmer, save in ex-
traordinary circumstances, can lay out money for
guano or other marketable manures.

THE LINCOLNSHIRE WOLDS {alias wilds), AND LINCOLN HEATH, INCLUDING
THE FENS AND RICH OLD SEA-BOTTOM LANDS.

Sir,— I am now on the Wolds of Liucolnshiie, where there
is some of the best farming in England. It appears that in
the county of Lincoln, in about seventy years, there have
been upwards of 600,000 acres of wiiste land brought into line
cultivation. The high waste lands were rabbit-warrens, gorae,
&c. ; and the low lands subject to water are now sufficiently
drained — nay, the lowest parts are now made dry with steam-
engines. Bourn Fen, for instance — -the wolds which are said
to contain about 230,C00 acres of land — three-fourths of a
century back did not average 5s. per acre to rent ; now-
through foreign bones and artificial manures, and by convert-
ing a great deal of corn and oilcake into meat — at this time it
produces at least 25s. per acre rent: nay, the rent of this wil-
derness is increased five-fold, while the wealth of the tenantry
has also augmented in the same proportion — tenant farmers
renting frota 1,000 to 3,000 acres. The late Mr. Eichard
Dawson, of Witheall, near Louth, boarded aud lodged in h;s
house thirty -four ploughmen, and grew 600 acres of turnips
yearly ; and kid out in bones for manure £1,500 a year for 22
years iu succession, besides oilcake, &c. The money he laid out,
direct and indirect, for manure was about equal to his rent. He
put yearly 1,500 Icng-woolled ewes to the ram. Some of these
leviathan farmers keep the finest hunters, for the best of all
reasons ; they breed ijiany of them, and make a great deal of
their rents by horses. Some keep their carriages ; some have
hot-houses and pineries. The interest of their capital would
keep them like gentlemen; and yet while this is the situation
of the tenantry, the landlords have benefited five-fold. Aud the
labourer has benefited also ; and many of them eat meat three
times a day, aud live as hard-working men ought to live.
Such ricks of corn are seldom seen in any county — nay, where
the land is naturally good, streets of ricks, nay acres of ricks,
disposed in rows — streets of ricks, as long as some streets ! —
all from land seventy years ago not worth 58. per acre, and so
weak that the strength of a crop must be put into the land be-
fore you could take a crop out of it. Let any practical farmer
look over the once poor barren eand land in the neighbourhood
of Market Easen, where it often costs £3 10s. per acre to clay
it, to make it firm to produce turnips, corn, and clover, besides
bones, oilcake, and ashes, &c. ; the clay is dug out of a deep

pit in the same close, and carted over the laud. The money
laid out upon this land yearly in claying, bones, oilcake, ashes,
&c, is equal to the rent.

There is another district in the neighbourhood of Lincoln,
called Lincoln Heath, not five miles from Lincoln, in the midst
of which stood a column in 1751. This column was erected in
a desert, .ind lighted up to guide the traveller iu the midst of
a howling wilderness. On the same plain may now be seen
corn-stacks and clover-ricks standing together in rows, almost
like the squares of London ; Kay, in fact, a city of corn and
clover-ricks. How were they obtained ? Where only rabbits and
vermin once existed, now are bred thousands of fine long-
woolled sheep, and many good oxen, fed in the winter upon
turnips, clover, aud oilcake ; these gigantic stacks, aud
fields of turnips and clover are produced by judicious applica-
tion of capital, and of generosity, business perseverance, and
good sense. Ship-loads of bones aud oilcake, &c., have been
imported to improve this former wilderness. I have known this
once wild land for about fifty years, therefore I can measure
the great improvements — a pattern to all the world.

Risley House, near Caistor, Oct. 17, 1854. S. A.

EACE-HORSE DUTY.— The surveyor of taxes having
caused those who run horses iu the Grantham steeple-chase to
be furnished with surcharges for race-horse duty, Mr. Sampey,
one of the persons charged, feeling indignant at having to pay,
wrote to the managing commissioner at Somerset-house, as to
his liability, informing him that the horse in question was
paid for as all common riding-horses are. In reply, Mr.
Keogh wrote : — " The board have made inquiry into the mat-
ter, and they find that you are charged only the ordinary duty
on your horse for the present year, and that, under the cir-
cumstances, you will not be assessed for a race-horse in respect
of the use of your horse on the occasion to which you allude."
This case fully proves, and may be of service hereafter to the
sporting world, that any gentleman who may choose to enter
his horse in a steeple-chase, may do so without being com-
pelled to pay race-horse duty.

U-2

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE-

CARMARTHEN FARMERS' CLUB.

The usual quarterly meeting of this exceedingly
useful club, was held on Wednesday the 5th July
last, when there were present — Thomas Morgan,
Esq., Maesgwrda, Chairman; J. L. PhiUips, Esq.,
Vice-chairman ; E. Gwyn, T. Edwards, A. Marr,
T. Williams, J. Bagnall, Esq., &c., &c.

The subject for discussion was " The Cultivation
of Turnips," and it was appropriately introduced by
Mr. John Lewis Phihpps, in the following speech : —

" Having been requested to introduce the ques-
tion, he did so with great pleasure, as it was of im-
portance to all tillers of the soil. As farmers, they
depended upon what they obtained from the sale of
their stock and their crops, and upon the quantity
of them success in farming depends. If he failed
to persuade one of the very many corn and grass
farmers in Wales of the economy of green crops?
it may not be without advantages to detail his con-
viction of their advantages to the extent of his ex-
perience. In winter, from the end of October to
the 1st of May, seven months of the year, milch
cows, with their calves, fat sheep, pigs, and store
feeders of all sorts, mainly depend upon green
crops, and they had yet to learn that they can be
so well and cheaply kept with any other kind of
food. They could trace the permanent advantages
of green crops even beyond winter and sprmg ; the
longer cattle and sheep were kept from off the old
pasture in spring, the sooner was there a full bite
for them when the time arrived to leave their winter
sheds ; the less food they eat and waste when out
grazing, the greater chance have the pasture to out-
grow the months that feed upon them. Withhold
turnips, &c., and you have the cow with early calf,
turned out to pasture, lean, half dry, and taking up
the nourishment in her grass that was denied her
on turnips, and instead of yielding butter and
cheese, she is putting on condition ; and the same
appHes to all stock fed on turnips, as they get fat,
and the young stock grow and thrive. Again, look
at the condition of the land as indicating the effects
of growing green crops. Where is the best grass
in early spring that can be grazed with advantage
by ewes with lambs, and the mare with her foal ?
Not in rich meadows or five or six years' grass, but
the seed grass field that was cleaned and manured
for turnips, which grew the cleanest and best
sample and most luxuriant crop of corn, and that,
although grazed bare, is ready to yield a hay crop,
and a clover hay or feed crop in the same year.
Thei}, as to the more remote advantages of culti-
vating turnips, &c., in rotation, as against corn and

grass only, he contended that in a given time, say
twenty or more years, let the acreage, climate, soil,
and market, be the same in both systems, and if
they thought advisable the quantity and quality of
produce, and yet upon a turnip and corn course of
rotation pursued by one, and the best rotation of
corn and grass by the other, the produce of the farm
growing green crops yields the most, and will at
the end of such a period be in the best condition.
First, then, the rotation of crops, for one acre, is as
follows : —

No.

1. Wheat 25 bushels, at 8s

2. Turnips & mangolds, 15 tons, at 9s.

3. Barley, 30 bushels, at 4s

4. Seeds, 2 tons, at £5

5. Grass at 10s. per acre , . .

6. Oats, 40 bushels, at 3s

7. Mangolds, 15 tons, at 12s

8. Wheat, 25 bushels, at 8s

9. Barley, 30 bushels, at 4s.

10. Hay, 2 tons, at £5

11. Turnips, 15 tons, at 8s

12. Barley, 30 bushels, at 4s

13. Hay, 2 tons, at £5

14. Grass, 10s. per acre

15. Wheat, 25 bushels, at 8s

16. Turnips & mangolds, 15 tons, at 8s.

17. Barley, 30 bushels, at 4s

18. Hay, 2 tons, at £5

19. Wheat, 25 bushels, at 8s

20. Barley, 30 bushels, at 4s

£ s. d.

10 0 0

6 15 0

6 0 0

10 0 0

0 10 0

6 0 0
9 0.0

10 0 0

6 0 0

10 0 0

6 0 0

10 0 0

0 10 0

10 0 0

6 0 0

10 0 0

6 0 0

£143 15 0

The best corn and grass rotation is nearly as
follows : —

1. Wheat, 25 bushels, at 8s 10 0 0

2. Barley, 30 bushels, at 4s 6 0 0

3. Oats, 40 bushels, at 3s 6 0 0

4. Hay, 2 tons, at £5 10 0 0

5. Grass, 10s 0 10 0

6. Glass, 10s 0 10 0

7. Oats, 40 bushels, at 3s 6 0 0

8. Barley, 30 bushels, 4s 6 0 0

9. Wheat, 25 bushels, at 8s 10 0 0

10. Barley, 30 bushels, at 4s 6 0 0

11. Hay, 2 tons, at £5 10 0 0

12. Grass, 10s 0 10 0

13. Grass, 10s 0 10 0

14. Grass, 10s , ... 0 10 0

15. Grass, 10s , 0 10 0

16. Wheat, 25 bushels, at Sst 10 0 0

17. Barley, 30 bushels, at 4s 6 0 0

18. Oats, 40 bushels, at 3s 6 0 0

19. Hay, 2 tons, at £5 10 0 0

20. Grass, 10s. 010 0

£102 10 0

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

443

According to the statement, the difference between
the two systems is in favour of green crops £41 5s.,
in 20 years per acre, or £2 Is. 3d. a year. He thought
that green crops were charged with more expense
than they really occasioned. No farmer could go
on during a number of years growing corn without
some kind of fallow ; the fields would be overrun
with weeds ; the expense of a naked fallow is less
economical than a fallow crop, and the actual on
May is more imaginary than real ; the manure that
the corn-growing farmer gives to his wheat or bar-
ley, the green-crops grower gives to his turnips, of
which there is always enough left for the succeeding
cereal crops, the ploughs, harness, rollers, that were
wanted for corn, will do again for turnips, and the
same horses and men will be wanted for the turnip
land, instead of eating their heads off up to harvest
— a few women to weed and store the turnips to be
the only item in the whole crops. He could not
therefore, bring himself to regard the different sums
for so many operations in preparing, &c., the soil
for green crops. A number of men and horses
were required for the daily working of the farm, and
out of the year's expense of those, he would deduct
at the same rate so many days' expense employed
in turnips, &c., cultivation which would be the
actual positive expense. On the most economical
mode of cultivating green crops, he should be
short ; the land must be dry, ploughed deep, and
if hard, subsoiled; having once got a good depth of
soil to work upon, harrow with a spike harrow (a
cheap implement, but a thorough good one), that
forks when the lands want forking, that tears the
grassy clots, that rolls too as it were in one opera-
tion, then the plough and common harrows, must
be repeated until the land is fine; by this time the
whole strength of the farm must be employed to
secure the speedy drilling of two or three pounds
of seed upon drills about 27 inches apart; the ma-
nure must be of that kind most available, farm-yard
or town manure, with two or three cwt. of guano.
With the after-culture of green crops we are all
famihar ; but one thing is indispensable — they must
be kept clean. One word about storing the roots :
he employed several women with stickles to cut off
the tops, then a man follows with a one-horse
skeleton plough, to up-root the turnips ; they were
then left for a few days for the earth to drop oflp,
and then stored in the usual way ; he had found it
a very safe, expeditious, and effectual plan."

The following communication from Mr. Carver,
the late Honorary Secretary, was then read.

" In the first place, I will take into consideration
the advantage derived by the farmer from growing
green crops, and, secondly, the most economical
mode of producing the same. The advantage de-
rived from growing green crops, present themselves

to the farmer in a variety of ways. It is the means
of producing an increase in the quantity as well as
the quality of the made manure ; by that increase,
the farmer obviates in a great measure the necessity
of purchasing artificial fertihzers. Turnips, &c.,
are the means of enabling the farmer to send his
stock fat to the market, instead of being compelled,
for want of food, which is often the case, to get rid
of them for almost any price that he is offered, and
allow his most enlightened neighbour, who is a
large grower of green crops, to derive all the benefit
from feeding their cattle, which he ought to have
done, when they were sold to the butcher. You
must all be aware of the improvement in the grain
crops after turnips. Some will recommend sowing
spring wheat, others barley, after them ; but I am
of opinion that wheat is preferable, because it is not
so liable to lodge ; and, again, the quality of barley
after turnips is not so good or fi.ne in comparison
to that of wheat ; besides, the yield of the grain
crop after turnips is much above the ordinary re-
turn, when no turnips are grown. Turnip culture
is the means of providing employment for that por-
tion of the labouring population as are not fit for
the more severe work on the farm. The children,
in a turnip-growing district, are brought up indus-
trious, the women find plenty of employment ; old
men, who are not fit to perform the heavy work on
the farm, can here find work they are capable of
performing. Turnips, if grown by farmers in
general, would, in a great measure, be the means
of preventing many an industrious person applying
to his parish for relief, and the union would be less
frequented by in-door residents. I will now call
your attention to the advantages young stock derive
from having a liberal allowance of turnips, instead
of, as is often the case, nothing but straw. We
sometimes see a beast, no matter what her breed
may be, that has been kept on straw, with a regular
allowance of turnips, and perhaps a little cake or
corn every day ; in the adjoining farm to where a
beast, got by the same bull, out of an equally
good cow of the same breed, which has been fed
through the winter, as hundreds are, on nothing
but straw, and what little they pick up about the
hedges. Now, what is the difference between the
value and appearance of the two beasts? why, the one
looks as a well-bred animal should, and the other
a poor, stunted, diminutive-looking creature, show-
ing little or no breed, although they are precisely
the same in that respect, and in value the one would
be about four times the worth of the other. This,
then,- proves that it is not the breeding alone that
makes a fine animal, but it is the breeding combined
with the feeding that does it. There was never a
more correct saying than that half the breed of all
fine animals goes in through the mouth, Now

44-1

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

then, is not that a. great recominendation for farmers
in general to grow green crops ? Another advantage
derived from the growth of turnips is, that it super-
sedes the necessity of naked fallows ; and for the
trouble and expense of keeping the land clean, the
farmer is remunerated, if he has paid proper atten-
tion, by having a good crop of turnips. If mangold
wurzel are substituted for turnips, autumn wheat
may be sown with success; but after turnips I would
recommend sowing the April wheat. I have now
to take into consideration the most economical mode
of producing turnips. I shall presume that the
land intended for turnips was under a corn crop the
preceding year. As soon after harvest as possible,
the ground should be ploughed to the depth of
three inches : in the end of November, or beginning
of December, it should have a heavy dragging, then
immediately ploughed to the depth of from iive to
six inches ; in fact, if the land had been drained,
the plough cannot be put in too deep. It should
then remain in that state until March, v/hen it
should be again dragged, and a scarifier put through
it as deeply as possible, so as to leave the land with
a. rough surface, that the atmosphere and frost may
pulverize it. It is then left until the turnip season
commences, when it must be either ploughed or
scarified until a sufficient depth of soil is obtained,
which must be reduced to a fine tilth by repeated
harrowing and rollings. I consider autumn culti-
vation most essential to the economical cultivation
of the land, because by that the soil derives the
benefit of the frosts through the v.'inter, which pul-
verizes it more efFectually than could be ever accom-
plished by implements, and a fine tilth is obtained
with far less labour than it would be if the first
ploughing were left until after Christmas. It is
well known to all, the advantage of autumn digging
a garden — why, then, should not the same cultiva-
tion on the farm be equally beneficial ? For the sake
of economy, every turnip-grower ought to be pro-
vided with a double mouldboardplough,whichv/ould
enable him to get over double the extent of land in
the same time that he could with a single mould
plough. One heavy and one light horse-hoe are
indispensable for the despatch of work, and the per-
fect cultivation of the land, because when the plants
are small, you require a light implement to prevent
their being buried ; and when they are strong, a
heavy implement is indispensable to stir the soil to
a proper depth between the rows effectually. The
hand-hoes should be made of the best steel, so that
when they are ground to a fine edge, they would
not be so liable to injury from coming in contact
with stones. Two men, provided with hoes of that
description, would do more work, and neater, than
three with tools made of soft sheet-iron, which drag
the weeds up, instead of cutting them oflP, There

can be no doubt but that the best quality and most
improved implements are by far the cheapest and
most economical in the end. The land being got
ready, a doublemouldboard plough opens the balks5
the carts follow with the manure, which is spread
as soon as put down, and covered by another
double jDlough. Should guano (which, in my
opinion, is the best manure for turnips), bones, or
other artificial manures be used, I strongly recom-
mend them to be sown broadcest over the land,
after the ridges have been opened, then to have the
balks split, so as to deposit the manure mixed with
the soil in the bottom of the drills, which is the
most natural place for the roots to seek nourish-
ment. I have no doubt it is beneficial to apply a
small portion of the manure by the drill, but on no
account the whole of the dressing. I have more than
once seen dry bones applied by the drill, and in
every case a great portion was left exposed on the
surface, in some instances more than half was in
sight. Vv^hat benefit could the crop derive from
manure applied in that way ? Would it not be more
judicious to put the manure where the roots are sure
to go, instead of placing it where there is no possi-
bility of their obtaining any benefit from it ? The
same, I have no doubt, is the result when guano or
other finely pulverized manures are drilled ; but,
from their being so fine, we cannot detect them so
readily on the surface. I consider 2i cv\'t. of guano
applied at the bottom of the drills better than 3 cwt.
put in by the common drill. Turnip-growing far-
mers in general grow too large an extent of land
under that crop : if a person who is accustomed to
sow fifteen acres were to put in only ten, giving the
same quantity of manure to it that he would have
done to the fifteen, he would be enabled to give more
attention and time to the cleaning of the crop, would
have less rent and taxes to pay for the turnip land,
and would, by proper attention, grow nearly the same
weight of roots that he would have done from the
fifteen, with the same manure and labour. An acre
of land drilled at 27 inches apart, contains 6453
yards of drills. Now, it would not be anything
extraordinary to grow four roots, each weighing
3lbs., which would give 12lbs. to the yard, pro-
ducing 34 J tons per acre, or if you were to raise four
roots 2lbs. each, which would make 8lbs. to the
yard, that would give a return of above 23 tons per
acre. I have heard farmers say that it is practicable
to produce four turnips, each weighing 3lbs., to the
yard ; and yet, when I have talked to those men
about the practicability of growing 30 tons per acre,
which does not amount to 12lbs. per yard, they
told me it was next to an impossibility to raise 30
tons to the acre. To begrudge labour and manure
to the turnip crop has, in every instance that has
come under ray observation} tended to lessen the

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

445

yield of the crop, I have seen turnips sown on
really good land, with an abundant supply of ma-
nure, which, had they been offered me for the taking
of them off the land, I would not have accepted ;
these same plants, and they wei-e nothing more than
small ones in November, had the land been properly
cultivated, would, I have no doubt, have produced
above 20 tons per acre, which v/ould have satisfied
the farmer, and have prevented his saying that tur-
nips were very well for gentlemen farmers to grow,
but that it would not do for a man who had his
living to get from the farm to cultivate them. As
great a proof as any of the advantage of growing
green crops is, that nine farmers out of every ten

that sow a small piece as as an experiment, are so
sure to continue the cultivation of them, and increase
the quantity yearly, as they become more convinced
of the advantages derived from their cultivation. I
could mention other facts which would go to prove
the advantage of cultivating green crops ; but, as I
think that what I have said is quite enough for the
purpose, I shall now conclude with requesting all
the members to use their utmost endeavours to for-
ward the interests and welfare of the club, and may
this society be the means of improving the system
of farming in the neighbourhood, and also the in-
troduction of many an improved implement into
the county. — Carmarthen Journal.

ROYAL SOUTH BUCKS AGRICULTURAL ASSOCIATION.

At the A.nnual Meeting held on Tuesday, Sept. 26, the
President, the Right Hon, Henry Labouchere, in pro-
posing Success to the Society, said : —

He valued highly all such societies for the opportunities they
afforded for men meeting together as friends and ueighhours,
as they did ou the present occasion, to talk over matters in
which they had a common coucern, to make personal acquaint-
ance with one another, and to mix together in a way for which
he regretted to say there were in this country not many oppor-
tunities to persons inhahiting the same ueighhourhcod (cheers).
And they had also the opportunity of talking over matters con-
nected with the cultivation of the soil. Mr. Trumper had
stated that it was a stringent rule in societies like this never
to introduce into their meetings any topics that savoured ot
party politics. He (Mr. Labouchere) was glad to think the time
had passed away when there was any danger at an agricultural
meeting of being tempted to diverge into the discussion of
such subjects. In former times they might have differed — and
some of them did differ widely— as to what was the best policy
to pursue with regard to the promotion of the permanent
interests of the cultivators of the soil. He rejoiced to think
that those differences were at an end, and he trusted the day
would never come when they would be revived (cheers). He
must ever think it was exceedingly unfortunate that questions
connected with the agriculture of the country were mixed up
with party politics, and juade the subjects of a struggle for
power in this country in a great popular arena. He rejoiced
that time was over, and that they could now meet to promote
the science of agriculture, without its being suspected that
they were seeking to advance the interests of one party rather
than another (cheers). At the same time, he thought it was
natural, ou an occasion such as this, that they should express
their opinions as to the general condition and prospects of the
agriculture of the country. Perhaps he had always taken a
more cheerful view than some had taken of the agriculture of
this couutry. For himself, he never had any fear, so long as
England prospered, that the soil of England could do other-
wise than prosper (loud cheers). He owned, so far as he could
form an opinion, he believed that the agriculture of this king-
dom never stood on a sounder or more satisfactory basis than
it did at this present moment. We had been blessed with a
most abundant harvest at a time when it was .most important,
not merely to agriculturists, but to.the country at large,*that it

shoidd he so ; for every other interest of this country was
inseparably connected with the interest of agriculture. It
had pleased Providence to give us a most abundant harvest,
which he believed had not only conferred inestimable blessings
on the whole population, but had also averted great aud serious
evils which the country must have had to endure had it been
otherwise. He thought he was justified in saying, so far as
the immediate prospects of agriculture were concerned, that
they had every cause for congratulation. But he owned he
own opinion was that, looking forward to the future prospects
of this couutry, and believing its prosperity to be on the in-
crease to an extent which had never before been experienced,
that the prosperity of agriculture would go ou with it, " pros-
pering and to prosper" (cheers). He saw in every direction
that intelligence and skill were being more and lAore applied
to the cultivation of the soil. He saw the owner of property,
the tenant farmer, and the labourer, all acting together, and all
Qiore and more feeliug that the interest of one class was the
interest of all, and being disposed to act towards one another
in a spirit of mutual good will. He saw in those things an
earnest of the future prosperity which they on the present oc-
casion looked forward to for that interest with which they were
particularly connected — he meant the cultivation of the soil.
Of course that interest depended much upon times and seasons.
He did not mean to say there might not be periods of gloom
and adversity. It must naturally be so. But he believed, upon
the whole, they might look forward with cheerfulness to the
prosperity of agriculture. In that particular neighbourhood be
beUeved their crops were most abundant. He had heard from
tliose more able to express an opinion on the subject than he
was, nothing but accounts of the most favourable kind in that
part of the country. He had travelled recently in other parts
of England, and he had heard the same thing. He thought,
therefore, thfjy had every reason to be grateful to Providence
for the blessiugs bestowed ou them in the present year. He
could only, in conclusion, assure them that it had afforded him
the most sincere pleasure to meet so many of his friends and
ueighhours on that occasion. He regretted he had no know-
ledge or experience as a practical agriculturist to enable him to
give them auy useful information ; but so far as his own
wishes went, he earnestly desired to see the agriculture of
England prosper, and in that respect he would yield to no man
(loud cheers).

446

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

INOCULATION FOR CONTAGIOUS PLEURO-PNEUM ONI A,

Contagious pleuro-pneumonia, as its name indi-
cates, is a disease of the lung and its envelopes,
having the sad property of transmission from the
diseased animal to the sound one. It is confined to
the ox species, though it has been known to attack
the pig and, some say, the goat. Its characteristic
symptom, its progress, terminations, and the post-
mortem lesions it leaves behind, are too well known
to need repetition. A great number of proprietors,
unfortunately, ,have but too much reason to be ac-
quainted with it J and the numerous publications on
the subject are sufficient to inform those who have
not had such opportunities. Nevertheless, there are
some points on which public opinion is not suffi-
ciently made up to assist renewed inquiry. Con-
tagion is beyond doubt established by correct ob-
servers, and yet everywhere incredulous persons
are met with among those of superficial observation.
This disease it is true, is not contagious the same
as typhus, the rot, the itch, &c., but is so after a
manner peculiar to itself, being special in its mode
of transmission; and sOipeople say, " How does it
happen that the beast standing next to one dead of
the disease does not contract it, but remains even
exempt, although one standing at the bottom of the
stable becomes affected ?" This is easily explained.
The contagious virus of this epizootic is volatile,
and consequently floats in suspension in the atmos-
phere ; all animals in the same habitation absorb it
without exception, and if some contract it more
readily than others, it is owing to the disposition of
their temperaments ; they must remain for a certain
time in such cohabitation that the air respired by
the diseased animal be inhaled by the healthy one,
and that for a certain time and in indeterminate
quantity. Some animals there are so refractory to
its action, that I have seen cows resist two succes-
sive invasions of it, and yet fall victims to a third.
This fatal property is so strongly confirmed by ex-
perience, that I fear not to say that, out of twenty
cases, but one was spontaneous to nineteen caught
by contagion. This dreadful disease appeared for
the first time in 1840, in the department of Murat.

An animal cured of pleuro-pneumonia is no more
liable to the disease : to this general rule I have
seen no exception. What may in some cases have
given rise to a contrary belief is, that there are ani-
mals who have been but imperfectly cured, whose
lungs remain hepatized to a greater or less extent,
in whom the disease may run into the chronic from
the acute stages, and be accompanied in that with
all the primary symptoms.

The left lung is much oftener attacked than the
right ; though the contrary, without any cause as-
signable, happens in certain cow establishments,
and, strange as it may seem, in this last case, the
mortality is always greater. This is a fact I have
uniformly observed at different dairies. The pro-
vince of Cantal, whose sole agricultural produce
consists in the rearing of cattle, sees its prosperity
threatened every day by this devastating scourge,
every mode of treatment employed hitherto having
proved without success.

Inoculation alone, as recommended by Dr. Wil-
lems, was the onle means held out to promise. For
a long time I felt myself inclined to this operation ;
I seemed to anticipate results before I had obtained
them; but, knowing the great importance that such
acts might be of, and feeling how necessary it was
to be cautious under the circumstances of advan-
cing nothing save what a thorough experim.entation,
based upon the number of subjects and the time
occupied, I have deferred my. opinions up to the
present moment.

1. In the month of September, 1852, I was
called by M. Dubois, farmer and magistrate of
Murat, to treat some beasts on the domain of
Pesche. Pleuro-pneumonia prevailed in this flock
with rare intensity; two-thirds of it had perished.
Inoculation, proposed by me as a new means of ex-
periment, was accepted by M.Dubois, Jun., and
practised on fifteen beasts at the time in health.
Since, this dairy has no return of the disease.

2. In February, 1853, M. Chaubasse, a lawyer
at AUanche, desired my services for his dairy at
Condour, in which pleuro-pneumonia had broken
out with so much violence, that, out of ten sick
beasts, eight had died (the right lung being always
more affected). Inoculation was practised on
seventy-two beasts, the lower two-thirds of the tail
being selected ; two of the animals only, with whom,
probably the disease was in a state of incubation,
perished some days after the inoculation, while two
others who failed to take inoculation, on the evi-
dence of the farmer who believed them cured, died.
The efficacy of inoculation is at this moment sub-
mitted in this domain to a sort of counter-proof,
which is the means of its being estimated at its true
value. Last spring, M. Chaubasse purchased some
cows to replace those which were dead. With these
fresh beasts the disease re-apeared, but all those
which had been inoculated have remained free from
it up to this very day. A fresh inoculation was
practfsed on thirty beasts the 26th of December last,

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

447

who had not been so previously. Of this experi-
ment, I shall recount the issue.

3. Encouraged by success, I anxiously looked
for fresh opportunity of continuing my experi-
ments. I did not wait long. On the 21st of last
July, M. Benoist, mayor of Marienat, and M.
Benoid Camille, placed at my disposal their fine
dairy of the Roche domain, where pleuro-pneu-
monia had already attacked fourteen beasts. In-
oculation was practised on 142 beasts, at the origin
and extremity of the tail, by means of five or six
punctures, in order to introduce the largest quantity
possible of the virus, -vvithout being previously en-
gaged with consecutive accidents, such as M. Wil-
lems had witnessed. From ths fifteenth to the
twentieth day, there arose on the inoculated part
considerable tumefaction, causing the loss of the
tail to two cows, and destroying two others in
whom this tumour extended to the vulva, anus,
and muscles of the croup, as far as the pelvic
cavity. Apart from these light accidents, and with
regard to the number of animals operated on, no
beast after this period has presented the slightest
symptom of pleuro-pneumonia.

4. On the 23rd of the same month, I inoculated
25 beasts at M. Fabre's house ; there the same
operation was attended with similar success, with
the exception of a single bull, which died in the
same manner as the cows at Roche ; so that 167
beasts, inoculated in the same week, have been for
upwards of six months preserved from every taint
of the epizootic. The three notable losses would
certainly have been prevented if the operation had
been confined to the lower part of the tail. The
brilliant results obtained at the house of these two
proprietors have made a great sensation in the
country, and justly popularised a remedy against
which had arisen some days before so many pre-
judices.

5. On the 20th Oct., I inoculated, at Mr.
Chavaroche's house, 36 animals, and from that
time I have heard no more of them.

6. On the 22nd of the same month, I operated
on 74 beasts belonging to M. Maillance, with the
same success.

7. On the 11th of November, inoculation was
performed on 56 beasts on the domain of Ambesse,
belonging to Capt. Fonteille.

8. On the 14th of the same month, the same
operation was performed on seventy-two animals
on the domain of Landel.

9. On the 8th of December, I inoculated 36
beasts belonging to M. Boudon.

10. 11, 12, 13, 14.

15. Lastly, on the 23rd and 24th of the same
month, 106 animals of M. Tournadre were sub-
mitted to inoculation.

These several amounts constitute a total of 855
animals, belonging to different land-holders, on
whose farms the epizootic had made more or less
considerable ravages. The success of inoculation
proved in every case complete, save some trifling
accidents happening at a time when inoculation was
too far advanced.

In the face of similar facts equally varied and
numerous, of which the greater part are established
by a considerable lapse of time, can any reasonable
doubtremain of the preservative property of pleuro-
pneumonic virus? I do not think it. This ques-
tion appears to me finally set at rest.

This epizootic prevails uniformly with the same
intensity. Every day it extends into the provinces
of Cantal and Murat, or the great range of pas-
turage. Every spring induces a prodigious num-
ber of beasts from every province, and consequently
keeps up between them very active intercourse, so
that whenever a disloyal farmer perceives the dis-
ease in his stables, he takes good care not to in-
form the municipal authority of it; but, on the
contrary, busies himself to sell all such as still pos-
sess value; and whenever the disease breaks out at
the house of the purchaser, he in his turn acts the
same, so that in this way the infection becomes
more and more spread abroad.

For the time to come, breeders, having no longer
the same interest in getting rid (at a low price) of
their animals, will keep them. The disease, ar-
rested by inoculotinn, will remain concentrated at
some points, and httle by little disappear for ever
fx-om our mountains. In order to arrive speedily
at this result, it will suffice, I think, that a new ad-
ministrative resolution modify the measures in
force, regulating the introduction into fairs and
markets of such proprietors alone of animals who
are known to have been sick, and not, as in the
past, to every inhabitant of the commune where
the epizootic may have an appearance, which evi-
dently is impracticable. Thus, what has happened
up to the present time? why, that no one has paid
attention to existing l^ws, and that contagion has
spread with impunity over all the fields of the
fair.

I must be permitted once more to call the atten-
tion of M. le Prefet to another question touching
the indemnity allowed by government to the loss o
beasts ; does such gratuity always go to the relief
of the truly unfortunate ? Does it not too often
find a false route? is the chief administration
always well informed ? Experience would seem to
estabhsh that it was not always so. It would be
very desirable, I think, in order to escape much
abuse in such cases, that all epizootic and enzootic
diseases, whatever their nature, were pronounced
upon, and treated by a diplomaed veterinarian,

448

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

without any regard to the distance he might have
to go from his house to the locality of disease.

I can see in this measure the double adA^antage
of furnishing Gov^ernment with some valuable
documents, and veterinary science with some ex-
cellent opportunities of studying the nature and
causes of epizootic diseases of the ox species on
which it yet possesses but some very incomplete
notions. — Marret, V.S., Allanclie, in Veterinarian,

THE BAROMETER;

OR THE PRACTICAL USE OF THE BAROMETER
TO FARMERS AND OTHERS, WITH RULES FOR
PREDICTING THE WEATHER.

The proper use of the barometer as a means of
judging the weather is not generally known, or its
great practical value would be more extensively ap-
preciated, more especially by farmers. It is only
necessary to be well acquainted with the nature of
its indications to form a tolerably good, and mostly
a correct, estimate of the impending weather. For
this purpose, it is here proposed to embody the
most approved rules relative to the barometer.
And it may be remarked, that if all persons affected
in any way by changes in the weather will but con-
sult their barometer daily, they will soou be sensi-
sible of the great advantages derivable from such
practice.

It should first be well understood that the prin-
cipal criterion of the kind of weather to be ex-
pected is the relative motion of the mercury in
the tube, and that its absolute height is only
of secondary importance when atmospherical
changes are to be anticipated. The words en-
graved on the register plate should not be much
regarded, as they cannot be much relied upon to
correspond with the state of the weather, and, in
fact, would show different indications at the top
and bottom of a lofty house ; but much greater
dependence may be placed in the rising and falling
of the mercury. For this reason the words are
more deserving of notice when the mercury has
just moved from " Changeable " upwards or
downwards.

The absolute height of the mercury is a safe
prognostic when it is unusually high or low, and
the following observations upon it may frequently
be found to be extremely serviceable.

1. All appearances being the same, the higher
the barometer is, the more likely is the weather to
be fair. When the barometer is high it will be
found that very dark and dense clouds pass com-
pletely over, and that there is very little probability
of immediate rain.

2. When the barometer is low it sometimes
rains almost without any appearance of clouds ;
and, though the sky may seem to promise fair
weather, it may be depended upon that the appear-
ances will not continue long : the face of the sky
changes very suddenly on such occasions. Also
when the barometer continues low, there is seldom
much rain ; though a fair day is very rare, the
general character of the weather at such times is
short, heavy, and sudden showers, with squalls of
wind from the west, north-west, or south-west.

3. The barometer is highest of all during a long
frost with a N.E. wind, and it is lowest of all during
a thav/ after a long frost, and accompanied by a
S.W. wind.

- 4. In all places nearly on a level with the sea
rain may be expected when the mercury falls below
30 inches.

To judge rightly of the changes to be expected
in the weather, we should especially ascertain if the
mercury is actually rising or falling. This will be
always seen by regularly adjusting the index of the
barometer. Or, we may observe: — 1. If the sur-
face of the mercury be convex, standing higher
in the middle of the tube than at the sides, it
indicates the rising ; if the surface be concave, it
is falling ; and if it appear level, the mercury is
stationary. 2. If, on shaking or rapping the
barometer, the mercury ascends higher than it
stood before, it indicates the rising ; but if it de-
scends, it indicates the falling.

The foUov.'ing rules have been laid down, and
amply confirmed by long-continued experience,
and may be generally relied upon : —

1. The rising of the quicksilver generally pre-
sages fair weather ; the falling generally indicates
rain, snow, and, if the fall be great, high winds
aud storms.

2. Y\'^hen bad weather quickly succeeds the fall-
ing of the mercury, it will not be of long con-
tinuance. Similarly, when fair weather soon fol-
lows the rise of the quicksilver, we must not calcu-
late on its continuance for any length of time.

3. On the contrary, if in bad weather the mer-
cury rises considerably, and continues in an ad-
vancing state for two or three days before the
fair weather sets in, we may expect a continu-
ance of fair v/eather. And if in clear weather the
mercury falls remarkably for two or three days
together before the rain sets in, it is then highly
probable that it will be succeeded by much rain
and perhaps high winds.

4. In winter the rising indicates frost ; and in
frosty weather if the mercury falls three or four
divisions there will certainly follow a thaw, but if
it rises in a continued frost it will always be ac-
companied with snow.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

449

5, In hot weather the sudden falUng of the mer-
cury portends thunder.

6. If the earth continues moist, and the water
stands in hollow places, no trust should be put in
the clearest sky.

Of all persons, the farmer and the sailor are
those who can generally, from constant observa-
tion, form the best judgment of the atmospheric
indications of the weather'; but while to the latter
the barometer is of the utmost importance in indi-
cating that a sudden change is at hand, to the for-
mer it will be found equally useful, if he is a con-
stant observer of it, by showing him pretty
accurately whether or not any particular change
of weather is hkely to be of some duration,

PROBUS FARMERS' CLUB.

At the meeting of this club on the 30th Oct,, a lecture was
delivered by Mr. Whitley, on some peculiarities of the climate
of the West of England, affecting agriculture; of which we
give the following abstract :

The effect of climate on the corn crops of the West, is
most obvious from the results produced in the two past years.
In 1853 we had a remarkably dry spring, followed by a very
wet summer, which continued up to the time of a deficient
harvest; the sickly and diseased wheat plant yielded a very
thin head and defective grain. The spring of 1854 was of a
similarly dry character ; the east wind blew continuously for
more than a month, covering this land with the dry air of the
continent; the rain set in just at the same period as in the
previous year, and continued through the summer with a re-
markably low temperature, until the crops, abundant in straw,
began to quail under its influeuce; but, when the prospects
looked the most gloomy, in opposition to our fears — coatrary
to the course which nature had taken in the previous year, the
sun dispelled the clouds, suddenly raised the summer tempera-
ture far above the average, and drew forth from the half
fainting plant a healthy well-filled ear. It would be difficult to
estimate the average loss in the wheat crop from the defects
of our climate, but it ia not perhaps too stiong a statement,
that if the same skilful husbandry were bestowed on the same
soil wheu the climate ia all that can be desired to bring the
wheat to perfection, at least one-third more in produce
would reward the cultivator. But if there are some defects in
our climate injurious to cereal crops, it is on the whole highly
favourable to the production of a large amount of human food.

The seasons are free from great extremes of temperature.
In central Europe the heat, radiated from a large continent,
becomes extreme in summer, and the cold of winter is equally
intense. lu North America the winter snows cover the
ground for months, till, on the return of spring, vegetation
rushes into renewed life ; the sun, having obtained the mastery
appears to glory in his might., and a tropical temperature is
felt where shortly before an ai die winter reigned. But with
us the summer's sun often leaves the unripe grapes to perish
on the vine, and the skater finds no field for his favourite sport_
W^e have also a comparatively slight difference between the
temperature of night and day. On the hills of Syria the
prophet shepherd said, " the frost consumed one by night, and
the drought by day;" but on our coast lands, the air from the
gca preserves a uniform temperature. The water of the sea

seldom sinks ia the depth of winter below 46 degrees, so that
frost can rarely touch the plants on the shore. From this
cause the neighbourhood of Penzance, and more particularly
the Scilly Isles, is well adapted to the growth of the early
potato ; and bo doubt the same root might be grown at tne
South Western extremity of Ireland v/ith equal success.

Ours is a country diversified by hill and dale. Not like the
marshes of the Danube, where the marsh poison lies on the
swampy surface ; not like the plaii>3 of India, where you must
sleep above the fever line or perish ; nor like the sandy plains
of Africa, the ovens of nature, or the parched lands of Arabia ;
these are countries where (in the language of the East) the
earth is fire and the wind is flame, where the sun is the monarch
of the day, and vegetatiou droops, and animated nature moans
beneath his influence. The Afghans have a saying — " Great
God, why hast thou made hell, since there is Ghizai ?" But
from our green hills the minor impurities sink nightly into
the valleys below, and leave on the grassy slopes a dry and
healthy atmosphere. Gardens and orcliarda on low ground
become filled with cold air, throwing out fog, and so producing
moss; gendering hoar-frost, and so cutting off the blossoms.
Fruit trees should be on a southern slope, with a hoe ditch on
the lower side; and cattle yards and our own dwellings should
be placed above the cold night air of the valleys.

Humidity is another characteristic of our climate, resulting
from the great evaporation arising from the warm surrounding
sea. At this time of the year the struggle between the sea-fog
and the warm air on the land may often be observed 1 the air
absorbs the fog, until, in the cool of the evening, it obtains the
mastery, and envelopes the land. On the return of day the
rising temperature drives it ag.aia to sea, when it hangs about
the horizon to return at night. The surfaces of trees also
condense the vapour, producing moss and fern on the limbs;
and the leaves drop water into the cattle pond^ though no rain
is falling.

The rain-clouds often pass over the coast lands before they
deposit their moisture, and the western inland slopes receive
the largest quantity In 1853 some good wheat was grown on
the north coast, whilst it struggled oa to a half crop inland.

The effects of climate are seen in the little pimpernel which
closes its leaves and hangs its head to avoid the storm ; in the
sunflower which lifts its petals to receive the rays of hght and
heat ; iu the winter coats of the cat, the horse, and the sheep ;
in the migration of animals and birds ; in the noble horss of
Arabia, compared with the Shetland dwarf ; in the winter
torpidity of some animals, and the summer activity of others ;
and it becomes us to study the causes which produce such
effects, and to adapt our culture, our plants and our animals,
to the climatic influences they must encounter.

HAPPY HOMES OF THE PEOPLE.— The homes of a
people are the landmarks of civilization. They are a standard
by which we may measure their moral and social greatness.
What is a nation but a large family, possessing rights and
privileges ? The influence of each member of that family for
good or evil is reciprocal. As the shock of electricity vibrates
and expands, so the influence of human actions is diffused
from the centre to the circumference of human society. The
moral power of a people is just iu proportion to the combined
virtuous influences which exist iu the homes of that people.
Hence it may be truly said, that our homes are the nurseries
of the nation's greatness. Home ! — how cold that heart must
be which does not beat more quickly at the bare mention of
the word ! What delightful aBsociations and recollettiona are

450

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

connected with 'that sacred spot ! A happy home gives the
mind a foretaste of the immortal state. It is here that the
virtues and charities, the blessings and realities of human life
are enjoyed. Here the sympathies of the heart, and the affec-
tions of the mind are nourished and developed, and aU that is
good and great in our nature is brought to maturity. But
what constitutes a happy home ? The pleasures of literature
are essential to the happiness of both masters, servants, and
children. No table should be without periodicals, suitable for
children, as well as adults. A good aud substantial library is
equally essential, if, indeed, it be not more so. How gratifying
it is to see a neat bookcase in a poor man's house, containiBg
the works of the world's greatest thinkers. There are many
homes in this country which do not contain this ; but their
happiness would be much more complete if they did. An
assortment of truly valuable books contains more sterling
wealth than the gold mines of California. Then let it be the
ambition of all who are solicitous to have happy homes, to
possess a good library and a collection of useful periodicals-
The " feast of reason and the flow of soul" may then be enjoyed
after the toil and bustle of the day is over.

THE BEST METHOD OF STORING AND
PRESERVING POTATOES DURING THE
WINTER.

At the Whitby Farmers' Club, Charles Hudson, Esq., in the
Chair, the following most valuable remarks were made in the
course of a short discussion on the above subject : —

W. Frankland, Esq., said he considered that very much
depends on the state the potatoes are in when taken up. As re-
gards his own, this year, they had been partially attacked with the
disease, and he thought at one time they were going to be verj
bad ; but they have turned out much better than he expected.
Those diseased he sorts out as he takes them up. He then
thinly spreads the good in his outhouses, when they are taken
up wet; but this year they are so dry and clear that he has
laid them much thicker. He lets them lie ten days or a fort-
night to sweat, and then sorts them into three sorts — market-
able, for sets, and the bad and small for pigs, &c. In abotit
another fortnight he stores them in pies in the field, as by
keeping in the house all the winter they are apt to shrivel, and
do not look so blooming in the spring.

Mr. Geo. "Welburn, of Fylingdales, said that he sorts his in
the same way as Mr. Frankland, and spreads them accord-
ingly ; he has an outhouse on purpose for storing them for the
wmter, and therefore never makes pies in the field. As soon
as he thinks they are fit to put by, he stores them in his potato
house, and covers them with straw and dry sods. He takes
particular care of his sods from year to year, always preserving
them from wet. By these meaus, hving as he does near the
fishing town of Robin Hood's Bay, which he supplies all the
winter, he can get easily at them at all times, whether frost
or snow, which he could not were they in pies in the fields.

Mr. T. Ward, of Bannial Flat, said he does the same as Mr.
Frankland as far as he has room in his outhouses ; but as he
grows a large quantity he cannot take, perhaps, such minute
pains and care of them. He causes them all to be sorted as
they take them up, and leaves all the diseased and bad ones
on the land, and then turns his pigs in to consume them-
He first puts the good in small heaps iu a field, aud covers
them with straw, and lets them lie in this way about a fort-

night to sweat ; he then has them properly sorted, and stores
them in pies in the fields for the winter. He thinks Mr.
Welburn's plan a good one, where there is a proper storing
house.

Mr. E. Ormeston, of Straggleton, said that he puts all his
potatoes in the house the same as ]\Ir. Welburn. He is
very particular in sorting them, as he believes that the diseased
potatoes infect the good ; but in a few weeks after they have
been taken up and sweated, they may then be stored for the
winter, he having houses for the purpose.

All the other members present concurred in the opinion that
potatoes must be allowed time to sweat before they are stored
away for the winter, and the diseased regularly sorted from
the good, as there is no doubt of the disease being contagious'

TESTIMONIAL TO POLICE CONSTABLE
PARTRIDGE.

Gentlemen, — I am deputed by the agricultural implement
manufacturers to present Jas. Torrington Partridge with the
accompanying gold watch, in token of their appreciation of the
very efficient manner in which he has uniformly performed the
important duties which have devolved upon him as principal
police officer at the Royal Agrioiltural Society's annual exhi-
bition during a period of twelve years.

A.S it is usual for such testimonials to be presented through
your Honourable Board, I have to request on behalf of the
agricultural implement maker?, that you will kindly permit
police officer Partridge to receive this small present.
I have the honour to be, gentlemen.

Your most obedient humble servant,

TVhitehall Place. William Pierce.

METROPOLITAN POLICE OFFICE, Whitehall
Place, Oct. 19th, 1854.— Sir,— The commissioners of police
of the metropolis have to acknowledge the receipt of your
letter of the 19 th instant, and to acquaint you they are highly
gratified to hear the conduct of police constable Partridge has
been such as to meet the approbation of the agricultural im-
plement manufacturers, and will have much pleasure in handing
to him the watch sent by that society.

I am, Sir, your obedient servant,

William Pierce, Esq. W, Bay,

TO KEEP APPLES.— The most effectual method of pre-
serving both apples and pears, with which I am familiar— and
which, of course, I recommend in preference to all others, ia
the following: — Having selected the best fruit, wipe it per-
fectly clean and dry with a fine cloth ; then take a jar of suit-
able size, the inside of which is thoroughly coated with cement,
and having placed a layer of fine and perfectly dry sand at the
bottom, place thereon a layer of the fruit — apples or pears as
the case may be — but not so close as to press each other, and
then a layer of sand ; and in this way proceed till the vessel
is full. Over the upper layer of fruit, a thicker stratum of
sand may be spread, and lightly pressed down with the hands .
In this manner, choice fruit, perfectly ripe, may be kept for
almost any length of time, if the jar be placed in a situation •
free from moisture. — Germantowii Telegraph.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

451

THE WOOD TRADE

LONDON, Oct. 20.— We are happy to be able to record a
very decided improvement in the tone of the wood trade. Tlie
aspect it has assumed has fully realized the prognosticatious
which our readers will remember we ventured to make, in re-
viewing the condition of the trade during the first half of the
present year. We foretold that the extreme point of depres-
sion had passed by, and that a tendency to advance would
speedily be evident in most articles, but particularly in oak
plank, masts, deck deals, and everything connected with ship
building. Of staves, moreover, we augured better things, and
also a rise in the finer classes of timber.

Though these anticipations have all been realized at
last, in a greater or less degree, the expected advance
has been materially retarded by circumstances which
the trade could easily control, and which its most
prominent members should bestir themselves to abolish. We
allude to the hrohers' public sales ly auction ! These sales
have followed each other so rapidly during the last six months
that they have utterly paralyzed the trade. They were
originally the resort merely of needy holders of goods, who
were compelled to turn their merchandize into money in order
to keep themselves afloat, and meet their engagements. By
degrees, however, the regular customers of the yard-keepers
were induced to seek this new, and apparently cheaper, source
from which to purchase, and thus the merchants themselves
have been obliged to place their goods in the brokers' cata-
logues to catch their old buyers again. But the system is
bad. Even if a merchant succeeds in selling some of his
goods, he deteriorates the value of his remaining stock, and
stands worse than he did before. As we have said, the public
sale should be held by the trade in discredit as the resort of
the needy holder devoid of capital, who has no right to hold
at all, since he cannot afford to wait his turn, and sell in
the legitimate way. It is against the benumbing influence of
this system that the trade has struggled for some months ; it
is this that has depressed prices, and not any want of demand,
or heavy superfluity of stock. From these effects, however,
the trade in now beginning to rally. Timber may be quoted
5s. per load higher here, and if foreign houses do not unwisely
raise their prices free on board on the other side, they may
expect a healthy business in spring, and their goods lying here
on consignment will find free vent during the remainder of
this season. Best Danzig timber is now worth, in London,
80s. to 85s.; best Memel, 8O3. to85s.; second Danzig, 67s.
6d. to 75s. ; second Memel, 70s. to 75s. ; fine Stettin, 65s.
to 70s. per load. Staves are beginning to look much more
healthy, and fine descriptions are moving — for Crown Memel
pipe, 1352. to 140L per mille. The failure of the vintage has
brought many staves of a new class from France to compete
with our regular stocks ; but it yet remains to be seen whether
the wood in question will answer the purposes of brewers.
Oak plank and deck deals are still in demand, and masts, in
consequence of Government purchases, have become very valu-
able. Deals are in good demand, at for crown Memel red £20 to
£22, and seconds £15 10s. to £16 10s. per standard hundred.

The present state of the wood trade, therefore, may be con-
sidered not only healthy, but progressively and steadily im-
proving. There is no fear of lower prices ; but a contingencyj
very far indeed from remote, might raise them indefinitely at
any moment. We have alluded before to the contemptible
position which vacillation and fear have given Prussia among
the nations. The shameful neutrality of the Germans still en-
dures. Among them there is no spirit or freedom. The very
first element of greatness and liberty is wanting — a public voice,
— and the determination to make it heard. The King — at once
feeble and dissolute, with the sympathetic yearning towards
tyranny which illustrates the old truth that the coward and the
bully are identical— is luring his people, who stand infamously
supine, to spend their blood and treasure on the side of the
Czar.

Though this policy, however, has been pursued so slowly and
so craftily that each step of the declension has been scarcely
perceptible, it is pretty well understood that our Government
will not be duped much longer. Whispers from the best
sources are current to the effect that a third fleet (it need not
be an armada) will proceed to blockade the Prussian ports next
spring, as soon as they arc free from ice, unless that Power
declares during the winter its adherence to the side of the
allies. The immediate result would be the total destruction of
Prussian commerce ; a French army on the Rhine ; Poland re-
constituted, harassing the northern ports, such as Memel and
Danzig; and Austria, already on our side, despatching its
hordes of soldiers to find pay and plunder iiTthe neighbour-
hood of Berlin. The Czar, who can scarcely hold his own,
will be incapacitated from assisting his friend King Cliquot,
and where these two worthies will end it is not difficult to
conjecture — a Siberian forest, or Leicester-square !

This is the contingency which would possibly affect the
wood trade so materially as to render stocks here nearly double
their present value. With Russian and Prussian supplies cut
off, and Sweden doubtful, only America remains, and of
course the merchants across the Atlantic would make their
harvest. The solution of these doubts is naturally looked for
with the utmost impatience. Before three months are passed,
the truth, whatever it be, will probably have declared itself.
We hope Prussia will, like Orson in the play, be at last en-
dowed with reason.

The great fire which has reduced two-thirds of the town of
Memel to ashes, and destroyed more than half a million ster-
ling of property, happily left the wood stocks almost, if not
entirely, untouched. With the exception, however, of the
chief firms of Messrs. Moir and Co. and Schultz and Co. — the
former of whom lost nothing, and the latter of whom were, we
hear, fully insured — most of the houses have been compelled
to take or have taken the opportunity to suspend payment, at
all events temporarily. Much confusion, therefore, reigns at that
port. Hundreds of people are huddled in barns, dependent
upon charity for food, shelter, and raiment. The fire is de-
clared to be the work of an incendiary, but the particulars
have not yet transpired.

II n

Tils MEMBERS MAGAgiNE.

E T E O R O L O G I C A L DIARY.

Eaeometer.

Thermometer.

WiNP AN3 State.

Atmosphere.

Weat'r.

1854.

8 a.m.

in. cts.
30.11

lOp.m.

ill. cts.
30.19

8 a.m.

2 p.m.

10 p.m.

Direction.

Force.

8 a.m.

2 p.m.

10p.m.

Sept.21

W., W. by N.

fresh

fine

dry

30.30

W. by N.

airy

fine

sun

fine

dry

30.23

N. by W.

airy

cloudy

fine

cloudy

dry

30.16

30.09

W. by South

forcible

cloudy

fine

rain

30.24

30.31

Northerly

gentle

fine

sun

clear

dry

30.36

30.34

Southerly

gentle

fine

sun

fine

dry

30.33

30.25

S. S.E.

lively

fine

sun

clear

dry

30.20

30.10

S. S. E.

lively

fine

sun

clear

dry

30.13

4.1

Every way.

calm

haze

fine

dry

30.16

30.20

Var., W.N.W.

gentle

haze

sun

.^ne

dry

Oct. 1

30.24

30.18

Every way

calm

fog

sun

fine

dry

30.11

29.88

S. West

gentle

haze

sun

clear

dry

29.78

29.91

\Y. by North

airy

fine

sun

fine

dry

29.88

29.72

S. West

lively

cloudy

sun

fine

dry

29.63

29.55

W. by South

strong

cloudy

sun

cloudy

showery

29.53

29.63

E. by N.

lively

cloudy

rain

29.90

30.05

E. by N.

lively

cloudy

fine

dry

30.08

29.85

East

lively

fine

sun

cloudy

dry

29.71

29.82

Variable

gentle

cloudy

sun

cloudy

dry

30.04

W. by N.

gentle

cloudy

fine

dry

30.03

30.37

N. N. W.

lively

cloudy

sun

clear

showery

30.46

42 ■

N. N. W.

fresh

fine

sun

fine

dry

30.45

30.32

Variable

calm

fog

sun

cloudy

dry

3o1bo

30.25

Variable

calm

haze

cloudy

rain

30.21

30.10

5.3i

S. by East

gentle

cloudy

cloudyj

rain

30.05

29.70

544

W. N. W.

gentle

fine

cloudy

dry

29.41

29.27

341

Easterly

fresh

cloudy

rain

29.25

29.53

iN. by West

brisk

cloudy

rain

29.71

29-67

! Westerly

lively

fine

cloudy

dry

29.41

29.40

|N. West

lively

fine

cloudy

rain

29.56

29.60

;N. West

gentle

fine

sun

cloudy

dry

Estimated Averages of October.

Barometer.
Highest j Lo^vest.
30.610 28.74

Thermometer.
High. I Low. I Mean,

68 27 I 48.9

Real Average Temperature of the Period.

Highest,
62.283

Lowest,
46.13

Mean.
54.206

Weather and Phenomena,
September 21, Fine; low horizontal hghtning
at 10 p.m. 22. Warm and airy ; equinox. 23,
Overcast. 24. A mere hint of rain. 25 to the end,
A strikingly beautiful period.

Lunations. — New Moon, 22nd day, 8h. 3 m.
afternoon. First quarter. 2Cth day, Oh, 38 ra.
afternoon,

Oct. 1 and 2, Vv et, fog ; then dry. 3. Attempt
at rain. 4. Fine change at hand. 5 and 6. Show-
ers. 7, 8, 9, and 10. Again dry. 11. A shower;
high temperature, above average to this day ; this

now declined rapidly. 12. Rime on the grass, 13,
Dense wet haze ; clearing. 14. Attempt at drizzle,
15. Much rain in the night. 16. Overcast. 17,
Some rain. IS. Very chilly; some rain, 19,
Changeable; curious cloudy masses, 20. Show-
ery. 21. Fine; temperature of the week 4 deg.
below the average.

Lunations, — Full Moon, 6th day, 7 h, 36 m.
morning. Last quarter, 14th day, 1 h. 41 m. morn-
ing. New Moon, 21st day, 9 h. 21 m, afternoon.

Remarks connected with Agriculture.
— Until the showers at length came on, the ground
was very and deeply drj', the grass parching, and
the roots and cabbages at a stand-still. But the
rains, though far from copious, have preduced much
good, not only to vegetation, but also by bringing
the land into capital mellowness for the plough and
seeding. It cannot be admitted that the fodder
crops — here, at least — have suffered much. To me
they appear very fine indeed.

Croydon, Oct. 21. J. Towers.

j^m

tME FARMEH'S MAGAZINE,

453

AGRICULTURAL REPORTS.

GENERAL AGRICULTURAL REPORT FOR
OCTOBER.

Harvest work having been brought to a general
and we may add most successful close, out-door
farm labours, such as ploughing and sowing,
have continued to engross the farmer's attention ;
the more so from the all-important fact that a con-
siderable rise has taken place in the value of wheat
and all spring corn, and that we have had a very-
fine season for most operations. In some quarters,
the want of moisture has been complained of 5 but
we believe that the land has worked well ; and we
may safely conclude that there has been no serious
interruption to the progress of the plough. The
present high value of grain has induced most of
the growers to lay down cidditional land for wheat
this season ; and from all the information we can
gain on this head, we are of opinion that even more
wheat will be sown this year than last, in the event
of the weather continuing fine for that purpose.
At the present moment, this is a point of
great importance; because it is evident that we
shall for some considerable period have to contend
with extremely high figures, arising from the con-
tinuance of the Russian war and the falling ofF in
the yield of grain this year in the United States.
Doubtless, our chief dependence must be upon
ourselves for a supply of food, although great ef-
forts will be made by speculators to increase the
importations. The consuming classes have, we
perceive, been loud in their complaints respecting
the price of bread, and condemned the farmers for
not supplying the markets more liberally. Now
the fact is, the sales of English wheats exceed
150,000 quarters per week — an enormous quantity ;
consequently, there is no withholding grain from
market. Ths fiail and thrashing machines are
going almost day and night to meet the demand ;
and yet consumption has exceeded the supply.
Further, there is now little or no competition be-
tween the home and foreign producers ; in other
words, the arrivals from abroad are on too small a
scale to have any depressing influence upon the quo-
tations ; there is scarcely any old English wheat to
be met with; but fortunately, we have an abundant
stock of new, of the finest quality, which is being
rapidly worked up to meet consumption. Whether
prices have not taken too wide a range, it is
not for us to determine ; but we may safely venture

to say, that anything approaching a lower range of
value cannot be anticipated. The yield of barley
is turning out well ; but, as yet, only a moderate
quantity has been thrashed out. Oats are a good
crop; but that of beans and peas is small.

From Ireland and Scotland, our accounts re-
specting the yield of wheat and spring corn are
favourable ; yet prices have had a sudden and
somewhat expected rise. We understand that the
surplus ]3roduce for shipment to this country is the
largest on record. This circumstance vvill, no
doubt, exercise some influence upon the quotations
in England.

Yfe have now to touch upon another important
feature, viz., the potato crop. For some time, we
have doubted the authenticity of many of th.i re-
ports on this important subject ; and although
many of our correspondents differ as to the extent
of the growth and the ravages of the disease, we
may now safely conclude that a very large quantity
has been grown, and that too of very fine qualify.
Instances are of course to met with, in which
heavy losses hav^e been sustained; but we contend
that they are very few in number, consequently
will have very little effect upon the aggregate
growth of the United Kingdom. To show that
farmers have large quantities on hand, we may
observe that immense supplies continue to be re-
ceived almost daily in the metropolis, and that the
best Regents are worth only 95s. per ton. In
October, last year, they were selling at £9 per ton.

The markets for the sale of live-stock have been
brisk, and the quotations have ruled high, owing
to the small quantity of meat yielded by the various
breeds of beasts, and the falling off in the impor-
tations from abroad. Flay and straw have ruled
dull, and prices have not been supported. The
large quantities of grain thrashed out have been pro-
ductive of increased supplies of strav/, which have
sold as low as from 24s. to 30s. per load. The old
duty on hops has been declared at very little over
£47,000. The trade has, consequently, been brisk,
and very high prices have been paid for new hops ;
but the immense arrivals of hops from the con-
tinent (about 6,000 bales), and the present low duty
upon them (20s. per cwt.), have produced dulness
in the trade, with the prospect of heavy impor-
tations during the winter. The present profits
to the foreign growers must be enormous.

H H 2

454

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

REVIEW OF THE CATTLE TRADE
DURING THE PAST MONTH.

The supplies of beasts on sale in most of the
large consuming markets held during the month
have been again large in number, but their general
quality has been very inferior. The consequence
has been that prime animals have sold briskly on
higher terms, whilst the value of other breeds has
had an upward tendency. From all parts of the
countryour accounts agree in stating that really good
beasts continue extremely scarce, owing, it is sup-
posed, to the comparative scarcity of grass during
the summer months, and the small quantity of good
hay secured in 1853 ; indeed, it appears to be a
matter of extreme difficulty to fatten animals up to
anything like their usual weight. These features
in the trade, combined with the immense consump-
tion going on, have tended to enhance prices ; and
it is tolerably obvious that any fall in them cannot
be anticipated. Some months since, we intimated
that beef would continue to improve in value, and
the result of the trade so far has fully justified our
observations. A Government contract for a large
number of beasts per week, weighing 90 stones and
upwards, has been taken at prices which have not
transpired. We learn that the contractors have
met with great difficulties in obtaining the number
required, and that the speculation is likely to prove
a heavy loss. As yet, about 400 beasts have been
purchased in Smithfield at relatively high rates.

Although the turnip and carrot crops have not
proved large, there is a fair average supply of food
now on hand for winter use ; hence, it is possible
that we may see the stock improve in condition.
There is one change in the system of feeding which
we have frequently recommended, and which we
yet hope to see carried out, viz., the withholding a
certain portion of stock from market until it shall
have become riper and more fitted for butchers'
purposes. We are quite aware that some animals
will never fatten advantageously ; yet it is quite
clear that the wholesale slaughtering of half-fat
stock, when there is a fair chance of materially in-
creasing its weight, must eventually be productive
of serious inconvenience to graziers in general.
Admitting that present prices are very tempting,
and that there is a great amount of speculation
going on, the system that we here recommend
would considerably enhance the present value of
food.

The health of the stock, both beasts and sheep,
has been good ; and we learn that the large fairs
and trysts have proved most remunerative to the
breeders. The imports from abroad, as we pre-
dicted would be the case some months since, have
been considerably less than in the corresponding
month, as will be seen by the following returns :— <

IMPORTS OF FOREIGN STOCK INTO LONDON.

Head.

Beasts 0,894

Sheep , 16,328

Lambs 40

Calves 1,009

Pigs 1,063

IMPORTS AT CORRESPONDING PERIODS.

Oct.

Beasts.

Sheep.

Calves.

Pigg.

1853 ..

.. 8,190 .

. 30,643 ,

. 1,797 .

. 1,585

1852 ..

.. 7,792 .

. 26,672 .

. 1,350 .

. 1,624

1851 .

.. 5,239 .

. 18,688 .

. 1,496 .

. 1,912

1850 ..

.. 5,929 .

. 20,982 .

. 1,312 .

. 1,702

1849 ..

. . 5,008 .

. 16,190 .

. 565 .

243

1848 ..

.. 2,962 .

. 10,669 .

. 803 .

. 116

1847 ..

.. 5,433 .

. 17,635 .

. 1,225 .

. 433

The total number of stock, English and foreign,
shown in Smithfield have been : — Head.

Beasts ,.. 26,456

Cows 510

Sheep 146,048

Calves 1,900

Pigs 3,620

Oct. 1850.

Oct. 1851.

Oct, 1852.

Oct. 1853.

Beasts.. 23,116

.. 22,092

,. 26,134

.. 27,327

Cows . . 440

450

525

545

Sheep ..138,110

..119,050

..132,430

., 145,400

Calves.. 2,130

.. 1,999

.. 2,556

.. 2,517

Pigs .. 3,615

.. 3,470

. . 2,770

.. 3,112

The arrivals of beasts from the northern grazing
districts have amounted to 9,900 short-horns ; from
other parts of England 4,000 of various breeds ;
and from Scotland 74 Scots. This is the smallest
supply from Scotland we almost ever recollect. Beef
has sold at from 3s. 2d. to 5s. ; mutton, 3s, 2d. to
5s. ; veal, 3s. to 4s. 8d. ; and pork, 3s. 4d. to 5s.
per 8lbs, to sink the offals.

COMPARISON OF SUPPLIES.

Oct., 1850.

Oct., 1851.

s. d. s, d.

s. d. s. d.

Beef . . from

2 4 to 3 10 „„

. . 2 6 to 3 8

Mutton ....

2 13 4 0..

. . 2 10 4 2

Veal

2 6 3 8..

..2 8 3 10

Pork

3 0 4 2..

. . 2 10 3 10

Oct., 1852.

Oct., 1853.

s. d. s. d

s. d. s. d.

Beef , . from

2 0 3 10 ..

..2 6 4 4

Mutton

3 0 4 6..

..2 8 5 0

Veal

2 6 4 0..

..3 6 4 10

Pork

2 10 3 10 ..

..36 4 10

Very extensive supplies of country-killed meat
have been on sale in Newgate and Leadenhall,
mostly in poor condition. About an average busi-
ness has been done as follows : — Beef from 3s. to
4s. 6d,; mutton, 3s. 2d. to 4s. 6d. ; veal, 2s. lOd.
to 4s. 4d.; pork, 3s, 4d. to 5s. 2d. per 8lbs. by the
carcass.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

455

LEICESTERSHIRE,
The long drought has had considerable influence on agricul-
tural operations. The beautiful weather in August and Sep-
tember enabled the farmer to secure in a short time and in
first-rate condition one of the most productive harvests on
record ; but rain not falling till the middle of the present
month prevented the strong land from being worked, for want
of moisture. On all those soils which could be stirred, this
long absence of rain was favourable for working them ; and
the cleansing of stubble ground and that from which root
crops have been removed has never been carried on to a
greater extent, or with more satisfactory results, than in the
present autumn. These soils are in fine condition for receiving
the seed, though, on some, wheat-sowing has been delayed on
account of their hard and dry state; and we seldom remem-
bered, in the middle of October, less wheat being actually
sown ; but a large breadth of land lay ready to receive the
seed whenever rain came to make it work kindly. About the
15th instant showers became frequent, and have fallen rather
heavily since, at intervals. Advantage has been taken of this
change in a large degree, and on a great extent of ground the
seed is now deposited on a fine bed, and under the most
favourable circumstances ; still, more rain is required to make
it germinate freely, and for breaking up the land under clover
ley, and much work of this kind remains to be done. The ex-
tended fine weather has been fortunate for taking up all root
crops, and the great bulk of potatoes, carrots, and, though less
of mangold than of these kinds, a considerable portion of this
useful root is safely housed ; and from its sensitive nature as
regards frost, it will be well for those who have it yet abroad
to secure it as soon as possible. We are happy to be able to
state, as regards that important root, the potato, the produce
is larger than for many past years, the quality excellent, and
only a small portion affected by the disease which has pre-
vailed so fatally for many past seasons. Though this fine dry
weather has been favourable in the instances before men-
tioned, there are drawbacks which it has entailed upon the
husbandman which we cannot overlook, but they apply more
to the grazing department of the farmer's occupation. From
the small quantity of rain which has fallen in the present year
(not more than half an average in this locality), vegetation
was severely checked during the summer ; consequently,
all grass land has not yielded so large an amount of food for
stock as in moister seasons. The cut of both natural and
artificial grasses for fodder cannot be estimated at more than
one-half the produce of ordinary years ; and the grazing pas-
tures have been so scanty of food, that stock has with diffi-
culty obtained enough to keep them in moderate condition.
We cannot say that they have done so bad as might have
been expected ; still, they are considerably below the mark
for facing the winter, where alone dependent upon their
natural food. Unless the winter should prove of a mild cha-
racter, we fear great losses in stock are to be apprehended,
without great care be taken of them. From this scarcity of
grass, all milking beasts have yielded less produce to the dairy
by about one-third than in abundant seasons ; and the better
kind of feeding stock, even on the best grazing laud, have not
made that progress as to fit them for the butcher by the usual
time without the appliance of extraneous food, which being
expensive, the grazier will not realize much profit, though
meat has fetched a high price. The dry weather has told with
bad effect upon green vegetable crops — turnips in particular.
They are withered for want of moisture ; and swedes have
greatly suffered from mildew, which causes the bulbs to be
small and of inferior quality. We are gl:.d to observe
that they appear refreshed by the late showers, and

are making some progress ; but they have received such a
check, that they cannot recover sufficiently to yield an
average quantity, and they will lack their ordinary nutriment.
The rapid and great rise in the value of wheat appears to have
taken all parties by surprise ; neither the producers, the con-
sumers, the millers, nor the merchants, were prepared for such
an event. Nothing having occurred to shake the general
opinion of the last harvest being a productive one, especially
as regards wheat, this advance appears the more remarkable.
The fact appears to us that we are now feeling the effects of
the deficient harvest of 1853 ; and there is little doubt that
such deficiency was greatly underrated, and that it was more
general in foreign countries than we conceived it to be. In
the face of a large crop of wheat and excellent weather to get
it in, all parties engaged in the corn trade only bought from
hand to mouth, and their stocks were reduced to the lowest
possible pitch, and the small quantity of old corn in the hands
of the farmers caused the new to be brought into use as soon
as harvested. This, combined with the large quantity of wheat
required immediately for seed, caused the demand to exceed
the supply ; consequently, the producers asked higher rates,
and the consumers were obliged to accede to their demand, for
they must have the article. It was soon evident that foreign
supplies came in very scantily, and the principal reliance rested
upon our own produce; also the price in other corn-supplying
countries rose above our markets, and exportation commenced
to some extent. This opened the eyes of dealers, and probably
speculators ; and they rushed into the market and bought ex-
tensively ; so that the markets are in an excited state, which,
by the bye, is never a healthy one. Now comes the question :
what will be the price in future ? One thing is certain, that
corn will not be sold at a lower price in the English than in
the foreign market ; and it appears that for some time to come,
our scale of prices will be regulated by those in other coun-
tries, and theirs will not be ruled by ours as heretofore ; for so
long as exportation continues, continental prices will fix those
of this country. It will be a curious revulsion of feeling, if
we have shortly the free-traders clamouring for a law to pro-
hibit the exportation of corn from this to foreign nations. We
certainly do not apprehend that this state of things will long
continue, for wheat at SOs. per qr. is a price which, we think,
other countries cannot sustain ; and, if there be corn to spare
abroad, will attract it to our own shores. It remains to be
seen if our producers will be free sellers at such a price, and we
apprehend they will, for there cannot be any scarcity in this
country, and should it be found there are supplies (if not to a
very great extent) from others, a reaction will certainly occur
as soon as there is time to transport it hither. We, therefore,
imagine it is much wiser and safer for the English farmer to
secure a good price for his grain than to speculate upon higher
rates. The advance in the price of wheat, since the middle of
September, may be quoted at 253. per qr., and the best in our
markets has made SOs., but it oscillates between 74s. and SOs. ;
barley, 35s.; oats, 343.; beans, SSs. for the best qualities.
The price of fat meat continues without much variation ; what
it loses one week it gains another : both beef and mutton ave-
rage 6 J. per lb., and the prime qualities of each G^d. Cheese
has made a high price at our fairs, ranging from 653. to 7S3.
per cwt., according to quality. The wool trade has been quiet
and steady; farmers' lots are worth from 283. to SOs. per tod.
Our labourers are well employed at I2s. per week for good
hands.— Oct, 27.

SOMERSETSHIRE.

As there is little in the growing crops to report, further

than that the rain we have just had will nicely enable us to put

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

in the winter beans and early wheats, and briug up the vetches,
we may proceed to what is uppermost, viz., the rapid advance
in the price of wheat. That our yield of wheat is better than
last year's as regards the whi'.e, and far exceeding with respect
to the red wheat, and so of others much greater than last
year, may be fairly conceded. As to the large yield of our
red samples, many instances have come to the writer's know-
ledge of the produce per acre exceeding the grower's estimate
per acre, and no instance of the reverse. On the face of this
there did not appear any likelihood of prices being otherv/ise
tbau moderate, and it was never our opinion our harvest
would have any other effect than preventing corn from getting
very high, but decidedly not make it cheap. The effect of
fine and wet weather has mere influence at Mark Lane than it
ought to have during harvest in depressing or raising prices.
This year the impression conveyed at that time to the public
was considered erroneous, and calculated not only to dis-
appoint, but really, before the end of the year, to send up
prices higher than they otherwise would bs. There is no
doubt that if wheat had not come under 83. per bush, we should
now have Letter supplies and a larger reserve. To us it was
evident that, with cur exhaiisted stocks of old corn, our deli-
veries of new would not keep pace with the consumption, and
that prices under 83. would not bring the needful supply from
abroad. It is now evident that the deficiencies of the harvest
0 ■ 1853 will be more felt than it hitherto has been. It is very
difficult to estimate future prices, but there are circumstances
which for the next month is likely to lessen the deliveries of
our home-growth ; still such sudden advances often cause re-
action, unless ihere be good grounds for the advance. Our
red wheat, three weeks since, was ratlier freely purchased at
7s. tid., this week 93, 3d. to 9s. 6d. vi^ill scarcely buy it ; lOs.
has been given for the best white. The red weighs from

61 to 63 lbs. per bush.; nurseries, 64 to 65 lbs.; white,

62 to 64 Yoi.; not much of the latter weight. Pota-
toes are good, realizing from lOs. to 12s. per 240 lbs. At
the present price of wheat our best barley will be used for
human food : it has advanced from 3s. 4d. to 43. 3d. and 4s.
6d.; winter beans began at 5s. this week, and in a few in-
stances reached 6s., weighing 66 to 70 lbs. per bush. : a good
many have been threshed. Vetches have been very scarce ;
they began at 8s., went up to I3s., and not enough for the
demand ; winter oats have been put in instead. 23s. to 26s.
is the price of oats ; but few threshed. There are some good
crops of mangel ; but on the whole it is a light one. Swedes
are still more deficient ; and turnips will afford very little keep
before winter— some have been already consumed. Win-
ter fodder has been drawn upon earlier than usual, and our
store of grass is less than for many years. Sheep have im-
proved in value lately ; poor stock depressed. Middling beef
haa been rather plentiful and dull, but the prime has main-
tained its value; and it is not likely we shall have it cheaper
before the end of the year, and probably not then. There is
a better stand of fat sheep, but we cannot reckon on our sup-
ply. Poor pigs are cheap ; they will not pay for eating corn,
aid roots are too scarce to feed much with. The making of
cheese has fallen off, and late prices are about maintained.
Butter is worth from lid. to Is. 4d. per lb.— Oct. 27.

IPSWICH.
We have now the pleasure to submit to you our opinion of
the harvest of this district. The weather, subsequently to the
10th of August, was uninterruptedly fine, and our grain crops
with the exception of a few early pieces too hastily carried,
have all bean secured in excellent condition. The bulk of straw,
pn every description of soil, of both wheat and barley, and es-

pecially the latter, far exceeds anything we ever remember ;
and although the yield is not in every instance proportionate
thereto, there can be no question that the produce of both crops,
as a whole, considerably exceeds an average. Wheat occupied
probablyabout aamuch above as lastyearwasbelowthe average
breadth. Assuming this excess at 7| per cent., the deficiency
last season at one-fourth, and the yield of the present crop at
6 bush, per acre above an average, we arrive at the conclusion
that the wheat crop this season will give a total produce of about
double that of last ; in addition to which, it must be remarked
that the weight of the grain exceeds that of last year by nearly
2 lbs. per bushel. To what extent this fact may affect our re-
quirements of foreign supplies, having no statistics of the
quantity of land under cultivation in the United Kingdom, we
have no means of approximately determining. The grain is
somewhat irregular in the berry, but bright and mellow and of
good mealing quality, best runs weighing from 61 to 62 lbs.
per bushel, with occasional samples 1 to 2 lbs. heavier. The
quality of barley is decidedly superior for malting purposes to
the growth of last season, being perfectly sound, sweet, and
mellow, but generally rather small in body, and owing to the
great bulk of straw a considerable proportion is somewhat
coarse and thin — weight from 52 to 54 lbs. per bushel. Beans
vary greatly in produce. In some cases the yield is large, in
others deficient, the quality and condition very good, and
weighing from 64 to 66 lbs. per bushel. Peas are considered
a good crop, but not many have yet appeared at market. The
stock of old wheat in farmers' hands at harvest was undoubt-
edly much less than usual, and we have had a free delivery of
new ; but the demand, owing to the exhausted stocks in millers'
hands, has thus far exceeded the supply. — Oct. 24.

CALENDAR OF AGRICULTURE.

All crops being now secured, the attention of the
farmer is directed to the manufacture and disposal
of these crops, and to the preparation required for
those of the ensuing year. Thrash regularly once
or twice a-week, which will afford fresh provender
for the cattle, and for being cut into chaff. Sell and
deliver all grain as thrashed — keeping of grain is
seldom profitable in the end. Lay in a granary a
quantity of oats for horses' feed, not very long
thrashed, as the grain soon contracts a musty smell.
Finish the sowing of wheat, if any remains undone
from last month. Continue draining on grass lands;
on fallow lands the approach will be forbidden, but
the drain may be dug to half depth or more.

Attend to feeding cattle in the yards, and sheep
in the fields ; litter the yards frequently and thinly ;
remove the sheep from wet to dry lands, and feed
amply.

Feed pigs with steamed and raw food, as before
directed. Be very kind to young horses ; allow a
yard and shed to two or three together, and mixed
food steamed, as potatoes, grains, and bran. The
first winter's treatment has very great effect on the
future growth of all young animals. Carrots, raw
or steamed, are good feed for horses. The calves
of this year also require a kind attention ; a dry and

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

45?

Warm bed, ample and regular foddering, and an
ample supply of fresh water.

Lay dung and composts on grass lands, and flood
water meadows.

Begin to cut underwoods and forest trees ; plant
every kind of arborescent plants ; make new hedges,
and repair old ones ; repair roads, scour ditches, and
gather dung of every kind.

In fine weather fallow the lands for next year's
ureen crops ; plough stubbles, and follow with the
subsoil plough. Raise turnips for the store pits at
the homestead : lay the roots in a longitudinal heap,
thatch with straw, and tie down with ropes. Have
at least two weeks' supply in store. Give the tops
and small roots to the store flocks, as calves in the
yards, and ewes in the fields.

AGRICULTURAL INTELLIGENCE,
FAIRS, &c.

BANBURY FAIR was but thinly attended. Beef and
muttoa sold for rather higher prices than last fair-day, al-
though many of the animah were of inferior quality. Fat
mutton brought 4s. to 4a. 6d. per stone. lu store sheep there
was little doing, and dealers still complain of a difficulty to
sell. There were several droves of Welsh ponies in the
market, which were rather dull of sale.

BLYTH FAIR. — The exhibition of sheep was good and in
excellent condition ; but lower prices were subnaitted to, rea-
lizing 73. 6d. per stone. The display of beasts was large, par-
ticularly drapes ; business tolerable, making 73. 6d. per stone.
Pigs were plentiful and of good quality, and those which
changed hands fetched higher prices. The horse show was
inferior.

CARLISLE FAIR. — The show on the whole was an ex-
tensive one, and the quality, with^the exception of horses, very
good. For Cheviot ewes the advance obtained at Falkirk was
fully established, prices ranj;ing from 2l3. to 25s. Clieviot
lambs and half-breds, or mid-!arabs, were a pretty good show,
the Cheviots bringing from 10s, to ] 23., and the half-breds
from 143. to IDs. Shorthorns, Galloway, and Highland cattle
were also a numerous show. The demand for shorthorn bul-
locks and heifers was very animated ; prices realized high, and
the market cleared of the best lots at aa early hour. For
Galloways and Highlanders the demand was also good. Gallo-
way stirks, which at the September market were a slow sale,
recovered from the former depression, and sold comparatively
well. The same remark applies to the two-year-olds. A few
lots of Highlanders, of the beat quality, were sold at a remark-
ably high figure. The show in the horse market was a spirited
one, there being a large number, but few of firat-rate quality.
Good horses, in fact, have not been known to be so scarce and
dear during the last forty years. The best were bought up
before entering the market, and realized very high sums.
Moderate horses brought fair prices, aud the " leatherplaters,"
of which there was an unusually large number, sold as well as
could be expected.

DEVIZES FAIR.— There was a fair average supply of
stock. Of horned cattle there was about the usual uumber,
but not much fat beef, the price of which was from 10s. to
10s. 6d. a score. The supply of sheep was large, of which,
however, the best, which were rather scarce, met a dull sale
from want of buyers. On the whole the trade was dull, prices
being lower than at WeyhiU, though a trifle higher than at
Yaruboro' Castle.

DORCHESTER FAIR, notwithstanding the very unfavour-
able state of the weather, was well supplied with stock, and
there was a tolerably good attendance of dealers. For stock
of high quality there was a good demand, and an advance in
price was realized ; but for the ordinary and iuferior descrip-
tions business was dull, at about recent quotatious, We may

report fat beef at from 10s. to lis. per score, a few very supe-
rior beasts obtaining something more. Fat wether mutton
from 6jd. to 7^d. per lb. Some ewes in lamb, of very good
quality, fetched as much as 33s. to 34s. per head. Among the
extraordinary sheep presented, we must not omit to notice a
splendid pen of 4-tooth Down wethers, from the flock of Mr.
Thomas Saunders, of Watercombe, valued at £3 per head, and
for which 573. per head was refused, as was 46s. a head for his
lot of prime Down ewes. Also a pen of 100 Down wethers,
of rare quality, from the flock of Mr. Joseph Saunders, of
Muston Farm : price 53s. per head. These pens were greatly
admired. In wool a decline.

EARLSTOUN FAIR,— The supply of cattle rather ex-
ceeded that of last year, the uumber being 900. There was a
large attendance of buyers, and sales were readily effected for
cattle in forward condition, and prices supported the advance
in recent markets. For inferior descriptions of cattle the de-
maud was not so good. Two-year-old cattle for turnips brought
from £12 to £18; one-year-olds sold at from £3 to £11 lOs.
There was rather a small show of milch cows, and those fit for
the Edinburgh market were iu request, and brought good
prices. The horse market was thinly supplied, but there were
several colts and fillies for draught, the best sorts of which
were selling at from £28 to £35, aud one or two as high as £40.

GAINSBRO' FAIR.— We had a good show of stock, with
plenty of buyers. Strong fresh steers were readily sold at
from £12 to £18 lOs. each. Prime heifers were in demand at
equally high rates. lu-calvers were in request. Sheep had
heavy sale. One lot of lambs realized 26s. 6d., and another
25s. Fat sold at 6d. per lb.

ILSLEY FAIR, — The supply of sheep was not very large.
There was a fair attendance of dealers. The demand was
tolerably good, and nearly the whole were sold at Is. per head
higher than the last fair.

MELTON AUTUMN NEW FAIR.— There was a large
show of all kinds of beasts, which sold well at good prices.
There were a great number of buyers from Norfolk and other
parts. Of sheep there was not so large a show as for the last
two or three weeks, still a good trade was done iu them. Pigs
a large market, but owing to the scarcity of keep not many
buyers. Horses a verv scanty show, aud of an inferior class.

MUIR OF ORD MARKET.— There was a large attend-
ance of farmers aud dealers from all parts of the country.
The day was dry and favourable, but from the recent rains the
stock did not look to advantage. The show of crosses was
very small — smaller, indeed, than at any October market for
many years. All the good lots were picked up early iu the
day at remarkably high prices. The sellers seemed to get
whatever they asked, there being about a dozen purchasers for
every lot exhibited. There was a large show of inferior High-
landers, and also some good lots, which sold readily at high
prices. Buyers were most anxious to purchase, and ali hough
numbers left the market without the cattle they wanted, any
lot that was at all likely to suit was taken at a high figure.
There was a good show of sheep upon the stance, but less
business was done in them than in cattle, sellers holding out
for a larger advance than buyers seemed inclined to give.
Some good lots, however, changed hands, and it was expected
that few would leave the stance unsold. On the whole, the
market may be characterised as a capital one for sellers.

NEWCASTLE OCTOBER FAIR.— On the whole there
was a very bad show of horses, and buyers were far from
numerous. The demand for army-horses was good, and a
large number found purchasers. The principal inquiry w^s,
however, for strong useful cart-horses, which brought almost
any price that could, iu reason, be asked for them. On Wed-
nesday the show upon the Cow Hill was large, but as usual, on
the fair-dny, the greater number was of the most worthless
description. Good cart-horses, as ou the previous days, were
quickly bought up. Four and five-year-old animals of this
description brought from £30 to £40, and about half a dozen
realised the high price of £55. There was a plentiful supply
of young carriage-horses, but the demand was poor, aud those
which found purchasers did so at from £20 to £35. Horses
fit for work brought from £50 to £60. This is generally con-
sidered the principal fair of the year for the sale of " long-
tails," but this year the show was as small as the prices for
young cart-horses were high. Two and a half year old strong
care-horses sold at from 28 to 30 guineas each, aud a few even
exceedi?d this large price. A lighter description of animal
might bo had for from £18 to £25, Oa Wednesd-iy there was

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

a large show of cattle on the Cow Hill, and very high prices
were asked. It ultimately became evident that the jobbers had
bought in their stock at higher rates than they were able to
realise; a great number was consequently left unsold, the
jobbers being unwilling to submit to a reduction, and such as
did sell out must have been losers by the transaction. Two
and a half and tliree-year-old bullocks (fit for turnips) brought
from £15 to £15 each; and heifers from £10 to £15. Year
and a half and approaching two-year-olds, if in pretty good
condition, were readily sold at from £9 to £9 lOs., being a
alight reduction in the prices asked in the early part of the
(lay. Young stirks fetched from £6 to £7 each. There was a
large show of kyloes, but the principal portion of the heifers
shown were about two years old, and consequently unsuitable
for buying in to feed off next summer. There were only three
or four lots fit for this purpose, but they did not show good
blood — the prices asked for them was from £7 10s. to £8 5 s.
There was a splendid show of kyloe bullocks. Three-year-olds
were sold at about £8 8s., and some of them brought as much
as £12. The Irish stock was large in quantity, and, in
general, good in quality, bp.t did not appear to be in great
favour. They could be bought at about £4 10s. each. For
bacon pigs there was not a very large show — prices 6s. 9d. to
7s. per stone. The show of sheep was less than usual, and
they realised nearly the same money as the previous fair, but
were from 5g. to 6a. a head lower than at the corresponding
fair of last year.

RUGBY FAIR. — There was a very large supply of stock,
and the prices realized were satisfactory to buyers and sellers.
There was an advance of |d. per lb. from the previous fair
both in beef and mutton, and a good clearance was pffected as
under : — Beef 5|d. to d^d., mutton 6d. to 7d. per lb. Store
beast brought an advance from last fair, as also did store
lambs. Cart foals also brought a remunerative profit, if we
may judge from one sold by a Rugby farmer, which made
20?., being 19 weeks old.

SLEAFORD FAIR.— We had a large supply of store
beasts and sheep ; the former sold readily at very high prices,
but sheep were difficult to get rid of, except at a very low
figure. Fat beef was scarce, and the price must be quoted at
8s. per stone.

STURMINSTER NEWTON FAIR was tolerably well
attended. Of fat stock there was a good supply, which met
with a ready sale ; but the lean stock did not sell well. There
was a large supply of fat sheep, which met with a quick sale,
but the sale of stock sheep was dull.

YARM GREAT OCTOBER FAIR.— The new horse fair
was well attended by London and local dealers. Good horses
were rather scarce ; coach, field, and good roadsters met with
ready sale ; cart horses were in request, many having been
sold. There was a smaller show of cattle than during the
past years. Shorthorns, fat steers, calving cows, heifers, and
grazing cattle were soon sold at high prices. Beef, 7s. to 7s.
6d. per stone. A good supply of rams, of superior quality;
an exceLent show of fat sheep and shearlings, which were
readily sold at 6 j. per lb.

IRISH FAIRS. — Great Munster. — This annual fair,
recently established, was held on Thursday and Friday last,
in Limerick. The horse and pig fair was held on the pre-
vious day. For swine, which were in large supply, there was
a very active demand at extremely high prices. The horse
fair was not so good as might have been expected. The show
was said, by those who came a distance to purchase, to be in-
different, and the quality to be such as not to afford encou-
ragement to buyers. There were no Enghsh buyers whatever.
" The cattle and sheep fair yesterday," says the Limerick
Reporter, " was supplied with an enormous quantity of stock
— the show was immense ; the quality, generally speaking, in
prime condition ; the demand exceedingly brisk, particularly
for fat cittle. The inquiry for sheep was limited to a very
partial extent, notwithstanding the large supply; and for
cattle not fat there was no particular inquiry."

SALE OF SHORTHORNS IN IRELAND.— The sale
of the herd of shorthorned cattle, the property of Mr. Topham,
took place at Dowestown, near Navan, Co. Meath, on Thursday,
Sept. 28th, under the most favourable circumstances ; the day
was extremely fine, and the attendance of a numerous and
highly r,.s,)!;cluble coicpany of noblcmtn and gentleinc:! muit

have been very gratifying to Mr. Topham, in this, his new
liome. Amongst the company we obserred, Lord Dunsane,
Lord Mayo, Lord Naas, Hon. L. H. K. Harmau, Sir Percy
Nugent, Col. Taylor; R. Archbold, J. O. G. Pollock, Thos. Lee
Norman, Thos. Barnes, R. Chaloner, R. Maxwell, J. P. Tvnte,
R. Fetherston, H. S. Mc Clintock, R. Holmes, R. Reyne'll, J.
Farrell, sen., J. Farrell, jun , T. Ball, W. Garnett," Esqs. ;
Messrs. J. Christy, Cooper, Keating, Coddington, Wade, Rat-
cliffe, Connoly, Murphy, Lambert, &c.,&c. The agents of Lord
Dufferin, Col. Veruer, Hugh Anderson, Esq., Wm. Carr, Esq.,
H. J. Spearman, Esq., most of whom were purchasers. After
having partaken of luncheon, the company adjourned to the sale,
which was conducted by Mr. Strafford, of London, who re-
marked that he had had the pleasure of knowing Mr. Topham
for upwards of 20 years, having previously to that time met
him at his father's house — a gentleman, he might add, who
stood high in the county of Lincoln as a distinguished breeder
of stock, and from which county the present herd were re-
cently imported to Ireland ; and he (Mr. S.) urged upon the
breeders of the sister isle the desirability of paying great at-
tention to the improvement of the various breeds of neat
stock, feeling satisfied that they had every inducement to do
so, and that, with proper care, they must shine in so doing,
noticing the fact of some very good judges from the western
states of America having been purchasers of several fine ani-
mals* from amongst them last spring. For some of the lots
the competition was brisk. The highest-priced cow. Lady
Spencer 1st, sold for 105 guineas, to Mr. Anderson, in the
county of Antrim ; others fetching 52, 46, 45, 43, 40 gs. each.
Some young heifers under one year old sold for 63, 50, to 40
gs. each ; and for some of the young bulls there was great
competition, the total amount of the sale being close upon
£2,000. — From a Correspondent.

* Since the above remarks were made by Mr. Strafford, we
may add that we have learned that one of the animals alluded
to— a bull called " New Year's Day," bred by Thos. Lee Norman,
Esq., of Corbollis Ardee, and mentioned in our report of a ship-
ment in May last, from Liverpool, as having been purchased by
Dr. Watts and Mr. Waddle — has recently been sold, at their sale
in Ohio, for the highest price of any of the exportation, viz.,
3,500 dollars, or 700 gs. of our money — a fact highly compli-
mentary to tills most respectable breeder, who has for a long time
persevered in the introduction of good stock into Ireland.

SALE OF SHORTHORNS AT WILLESDEN, MID-
DLESEX.— On Thursday, Oct. 12, the sale of some choice pure-
bred shorthorned cattle, the property of Wm. Dickinson, Esq.,
took place at Willesden, under the superintendence of Mr.
Strafford, of Euston Square, and was conducted by him with
his usual ability. The cattle offered were a portion of a fine
lot of animals of this justly fashionable breed, selected by Mr.
Dickinson from some noted herds, with the intention of stock-
ing a farm in the New Forest, Hants, which he finds better
adapted for sheep ; and although many of the cows and heifers
were in low condition, their character as to pedigree and other
merits seemed to be duly appreciated by several highly res-
pectable breeders who attended the sale, many of them from
great distances, as may be inferred when we mention that some
of the lots were purchased to go into Ireland, and others were
bought by gentlemen residing in the counties of Bedford,
Berks, Gloucestershire, Hampshire, Hertford, Huntingdonshire,
Kent, Lancashire, Middlesex, Northampton, Sussex, Warwick,
Worcester, Wilts, and Yorkshire. The following are amongst
the sums reahzed : — Jilt 60 gs,, her calf 19 gs. ; Marion 50 gs.,
her calf 28 gs; Moss Rose, 50 gs.; Cathleen 45 gs., her calf
28 gs. ; Amity, 44 gs. ; Lucy 44 gs., her calf 15 gs. ; Harriet,
40 gs.; Trickstress, 40 gs.; Borrowby Lass 39 gs., her calf
20 gs.; Rarity, 38 gs. ; Splendour 35 gs., her calf 36 gs. A
yearling heifer, Coquette (from Jilt), sold for 50 as. ; another.
Vixen (from Victress), 48 gs.; the remainder fetching good
prices. The result of the sale seemed highly satisfactory to
the vendor, who expressed his gratification for the support
given. — From a Correspondent.

LINKENHOLT MANOR FARM, HANTS.— The sale
by auction of the Messrs. Osmond's highly noted flock of
Hampshire Downs took place on the above farm, on Friday,
Oct. 13, when there was a large assembly of the principal flock-
masters of Wilts, Hants, and Berks, who after partaking of
an excellent luncheon, under the efficient presidency of Wm.
Canning, Esq., of Chiseldon, Wilts, proceeded to the sale
grcund, and although the weather was very unfavourable, Mr,

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

459

Frederick Ellen, of Andover, the auctioneer, was favoured with
spirited biddings, as will be seen from the following prices,
and every lot was disposed of : — One score of full-mouthed
ewes realized SI. lis. 6d. per head, and another lot 21. 14s.,
both of which were purchased by Robert Loug, Esq., of
Overton, Wilts ; a score of six-tooth ewes, bought by John
Moore, Esq., of Littlecot, Wilts, fetched 31. Is. per head ; the
hijhest price realized for four-tooth ewes was 3Z. 4s. per head,
which lot was bought by Pearce Brown, Esq., Burderop,

Wilts; two lots of two-tooth ewes, realizing 21. 6a. per head,
were bought by Henry Puckridge, Esq., Winterbourne. The
ewe lambs were very much admired ; one score selling as high
as 31., and another 21. Ss. per head, both lots were purchased
by James Parker, Esq., Lasham, Alton, Hants. Other lots
fetched good prices, which were purchased by J. and S.
Wentworth, J. Vaisey, F. Budd, L. Lywood, S. Smith, W.
Child, H. Browne, J, Ford, — Oborne, and — Carpenter,
Esqrs., and others.

REVIEW OF THE COUN TUADE

DURING THE MONTH OF OCTOBER.

A most extiaordinary and unlooked-for change
has taken place in the position of the grain trade
since our last; individuals raay no doubt be met
with^ who pretend that they foresaw what has oc-
curred ; but we candidly confess that we were not
prepared for so great a rise as that estabhshed in
the value of all kinds of agricidtural produce since
harvest.

In speaking of the probable future range of
prices of wheat two months ago, we gave it as our
opinion that good qualities would rule between
50s. and 60s. per qr. ; and again, referring to the
subject at the close of September, we said, " Quo-
tations have, since our last, been below and above
the point fixed ; but we still think, when matters
shall have become more settled, that will be about
the average." The result has proved that we, like
others, had not made sufficient allowance for the
effect of the complete exhaustion of old stocks in
almost all parts of the world.

The enormous deficiency in the produce of 1853
caused a complete clearing out of the reserves of
former years ; and at the time the crops of the year
became ready to be gathered, there was perhaps
less old corn remaining in Europe than at any
former i)eriod for years past. This was, however,
in a great measure disregarded; the promise of
abundance held out by the appearance of the fields
distracted attention from the empty granaries, and
opinion was almost unanimous as to a year of
plenty and low prices. With regard to the estimate
of the harvest, there is no reason to believe that
any great error has been made as far as Great
Britain is concerned ; in fact, all that we have
heard and seen convinces us that, taking one kind
of food with the other, the produce is greatly in
excess of good average seasons. Whether this^
however, is the case in France and some of the
other continental countries, may be questioned ;
certain it is, that France and Belgium have thus
far been unable to obtain sufficient supplies from
their own growers to provide for their consump-

tion ; and England, as the nearest point where
assistance could be obtained, has been called upon
to furnish aid. The total quantity of wheat taken
by buyers from Fi'ance and Belgium has been
rather considerable, which, with a large home de-
mand, has caused all that the granaries have
brought forward to be quickly taken off at rising
prices.

The foreign demand has no doubt assisted the
upward movement. This was an element which,
in our estimate of the future, we did not foresee, as
the accounts from France led us to expect that that
country would be in a position to export, rather
than that she would be compelled to come to Eng-
land for supplies. This, however, was not the only
circumstance calculated to mislead. The advices
from America, up to the time of harvest, spoke in
the highest terms of the crops there; but just pre-
vious to the time at v/hich the Indian corn should
have attained maturity, the United States suffered
from severe drought, and that crop (almost equal
in importance to wheat) sustained great damage,
the consequence of which was so important a rise
in the value of all kinds of breadstuff, on the other
side of the Atlantic, as to put a total stop to ship-
ments to Great Britain. With our warehouses and
granaries nearly cleared out, and foreign supplies
dwindling down from week to week, it soon became
apparent that farmers, however well disposed, could
not furnish sufficient wheat to satisfy the demand ;
and an unlooked-for rise of 25s. to 30s. per qr.
from the lowest point of depression has been the
consequence.

After having endeavoured to trace the cause of
the upward movement, it may not be amiss to exa-
mine into the probable duration of this state of
affairs. In undertaking this, we shall refrain from
offering our personal opinions, but confine our-
selves to laying such information as we possess
before our readers, leaving them to draw their
own conclusions.

With regard to the yield and quality of the various

460

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

crops, we have already stated that the best authori-
ties are agreed. Quite sufficient has now been
thrashed to allow of a judgment being given on
these important points. The extravagant expecta-
tions formed by the most sanguine may not have
been altogether realized; but there cannot be a
doubt that the acreable yield of wheat, barley, and
oats exceeds that of average years probably by a
fifth, whilst, as far as regards wheat, a further
surplus is afforded in consequence of the extra
breadth of land under that crop. On the other
hand, it may be regarded as certain that, when the
new crop became available, stocks of old in farmers'
hands were almostexhausted, whereas in the ordinary
course of affairs the growers generally retain sufficient
on hand at harvest time for one or two months'
consumption. It was, however, not alone the
farmers who had no reserve at harvest time, but the
merchants, millers, bakers, and dealers in all parts
of the kingdom were in the same position, Lon-
don, Liverpool, and one or two other ports had, it
is true, some quantity of wheat and flour in store ;
but the total want of old for mixing in other parts
caused the reserve held at the places named to be
speedily consumed; and at present the ware-
houses are everywhere empty. The new wheat
having for the most part been harvested in excellent
condition, has been used very freely ; and there is
reason to believe that greater inroads have already
been made in the crop of 1854 than is at all usual so
soon after harvest. It may be questioned, there-
fore, whether the United Kingdom is at present in
a better position with regard to the amount of
food on hand than was the case in October, last
year.

We next come to the question of future supplies.
In the autumn of 1853 there were good stocks of
old wheat in the Baltic, and a very large quantity
at the Black Sea ports. America had secured an
extraordinary crop, and was by no means without
reserves of old. The autumn of this year finds us
with little or no old corn of any kind on hand.
The war with Russia renders it impossible to ob-
tain supplies from any of the ports east of Gibral-
tar. In the Baltic, old stocks are exhausted, and
supples of new corn cannot be calculated on with
any safety until the spring ; whilst America has,
owing to the partial failure of the Indian-corn crop,
less to spare for export than she had last year. We
offer the foregoing simple statement of facts to the
consideration of our readers, leaving them to draw
their own deductions. In confirmation of the in-
ability of foreign countries to afford us any imme-
diate aid, we may give a statement of the imports
into the United Kingdom during the last three
months with those of the corresponding months in
1853. These have been as follows ; —

Month ending

5tl

I August :

1854.

1853.

Qrs.

Wheat

281,950

691,737

Barley

101,679

132,233

Oats

110,817

85,021

Rye

—

11,712

Beans

29,181

40,091

Peas

6,255

4,951

Maize

106,677

288,222

Flour cwts.

250,103

379:249

Month ending

5th September ;

Qrs.

Wheat

198,057

546,924

Barley

96,759

68,721

Oats

125,069

166,231

Rye

441

7,102

Beans

34,490

30,994

Peas

5,079

3,103

Maize

62,847

173,565

Flour cwts.

228,213

381,611

Month ending

10th October :

Qrs.

Wheat

91,547

468,888

Barley

38,386

56,472

Oats

61,053

158,635

Rye

2,432

7,373

Beans

51,359

35,705

Peas

5,150

4,742

Maize

42,224

126,512

Flour cwts

. 90,187

463,545

At present there can be but little on passage
either from the Baltic or from the eastern ports ;
and by the advices from the United States it ap-
pears that the total shipments in the month of
September for Great Britain were as follows : —
Sept. 1854. Sept. 1853
Wheat bush. — 950,754

Indian corn, „ 22,505 250,661

Flour brls. 3,078 154,878

It is, however, right to remark that prices were
then falling rapidly ; and it is highly probable that
when it became known there how great a rise had
taken place in the English markets, consignments
of wheat and flour would recommence on
rather a large scale, and we are certainly disposed
to expect arrivals from America to some extent
this side of Christmas.

Notwithstanding the numerous calls on the time
of the farmer, the thrashing machines have been
kept actively at work, and the deliveries of home-
grown wheat have been large ; this is shown by the
return of the sales at the towns furnishing the ave-
rages. These have been during the last four weeks :
1854. 1853. 1852.

Qrs. Qrs. Qrs.

Sept. SO 113,557 101,508 114,961

Oct. 7 150,801 103,932 115,663

do. 14 151,870 95,494 114,838

do. 21 150,277 85,066 117,026

The prices now current cannot be otherwise than
tempting to the producers, and there is, conse«
quently, reason to believe tliat the home supplie.s

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

461

will continue good throughout the winter ; whether,
however, these and the comparatively small quanti-
ties hkely to reach us from abroad, including what
America may be able to send, will suflice to satisfy
the consumptive demand, admits of doubt.

So well pleased have the farmers been with the
prices they have made for their wheat, that they
show little inclination to thrash spring corn, and
the quantity of barley and oats which has been
brought forv/ard has been smaller than usual at the
same period of the year. Malting barlej', the open-
ing price of which v/as 30s. per qr., has risen to
36s., and in some cases as much as 40s. per qr. has
been realized for choice qualities.

Oats have advanced in nearly the same ratio, and
are still so scarce in many parts of the kingdom as
to cause the necessity of using other articles as
substitutes for cattle feeding.

To afford a better idea than the foregoing re-
marks furnish of the actual rise which has taken
place in the different kinds of grain &c. since our
last, we shall proceed to give a detailed account of
the advance as it has occurred from week to week
at Mark Lane.

The supplies of English wheat have throughout
been good ; in the beginning of the month they
were large, and though since more moderate, still
taking what has arrived coastwise, together with
what has reached us by the different railways, the
entire quantity has been above the usual average
supply in the month of October, vvhen farmers are
generally a good deal occupied with field labours.

Business commenced rather quietly, and on the
first Monday in the month, viz., the 2nd inst., a de-
cline of Is. per qr. had to be submitted to, before a
clearance of the Essex and Kent stands could be
made. Good runs of Essex and Kent red v/heat
were then parted with at 55s. to 58s., and the best
at 60s. per qr. No material change took place dur-
ing the succeeding week ; but on the following
Monday the decline of Is. per qr. was recovered;
and in the course of the following eight days a
marked improvement took place in the demand.
On the l6th instant the enquiry had become lively,
and with a decrease in the quantity offered for sale
buyers willingly paid an advance of 4s. to 5s. per
qr. During the week the excitement increased, and
we had daily rising prices until the 23rd, when
good runs of red wheat, such as had a fortnight
before sold at about 58s., brought 76s. to 77s. per
qr., and picked lots Is. to 2s. per qr. more. Since
then buyers have become more circumspect in their
operations, and there appears at present to be a de-
termination to work up what has lately been bought
before making further purchases. If this resolution
should be strictly' adhered to, we may perhaps
witness a slight reaction ; but any material fall

would probably have the effect of checking supplies
from the growers, who will need the temptation of
high prices to depart from their usual course, viz.,
to thrash freely during seed-time. The future
range of prices certainly tests with them, as there
is little chance of foreign competition for months
to come. The arrivals of foreign wheat have been
perfectly insignificant— not more than 15,000 qrs.
having come to hand during the month : this
quantity is materially short of a moderate weekly
supply. Meanwhile considerable parcels have from
time to time been shipped to the continent, and
large quantities have been taken by buyers from
different parts of the kingdom ; the granaried
stocks (previously much reduced) have therefore
undergone a further diminuition, and fine quantities
have become exceedingly scarce. In proportion as
the finer descriptions have disappeared, secondary
sorts have m.et with increased attention, and the
advance has consequently been nearly as great on
the latter as the former. When new Enghsh wheat
gave way Is. per qr. in the early part of the month,
no such reduction was submitted to by holders of
foreign ; indeed, the tendency was on that very
occasion the other v/ay, and the best sorts, such as
Rostock and Danzig, actually rose Is. per qr. in spite
of the decline in the value of English. Since then the
advance has been very rapid, and on the 23rd inst.
moderately good Lower Baltic red wheat could
not be bought below 78s. to 80s., whilst Rostock
was held at S4s. to S5s., and Danzig even higher.
That the millers should have deemed it prudent to
pause ere paying these high prices, is not to be
wondered at ; but as they cannot manufacture the
new of home-growth without at least a moderate
mixture of old, and the latter is only to be obtained
in London, holders have remained exceedingly
firm — showing more disposition to raise than to
lower their pretensions. In floating cargoes com-
paratively little business has been done ; this had,
however, been owing to the want of offers at rea-
sonable terms rather than to thewant of inclination
to buy : for Egyptian Saide wheat on passage 50s.
per qr., cost, freight, and insurance, is now asked,
and a cargo of Behera was lately sold at 44s. per
qr. Thus far very few contracts for spring ship-
ment from Baltic ports have been closed, the terms
demanded having been deemed too high by pur-
chasers. A few small cargoes of Pomeranian and
Mecklenburg wheat, to be delivered in Novem-
ber, might perhaps be picked up at about 64s. to
65s. per qr., free on board ; but any large quantity
could not be secured at those rates.

The rise in the price of flour has been relatively
greater than that established on wheat. The fact
appears to be, that the town-millers entered into
engagements to deliver flour when matters wore a

462

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

very different aspect, and being unwilling to take
further forward contracts except at such rates as
they deemed safe, they have moved up prices some-
what faster than they would otherwise have had to
do. At the close of Septeniber, the nominal top quo-
tation was 55s. per sack. The first move upwards
occurred on the 9th, when a rise of 3s. was agreed
to. This failed to check the demand ; and finding
orders came in faster than they could be executed,
a further advance of 2s. per sack was determined
on before the close of that week. This, however,
was not found suflUcient; and with the first im-
petus which was communicated to the wheat trade
on the 1 6th, it became necessary to keep pace.
On the 20th, the top price was advanced to 65s.,
and on the 23rd to 70s. per sack. Other descrip-
tions of fiour have not lagged behind in the up-
ward movement : Norfolk household is now worth
58s. to 60s. per sack ; and the finest American,
48s. per barrel. Of Spanish, the market has been
completely cleared.

Farmers have been so anxious to send their
wheat to market, that they have been unable to
afford much time for thrashing spring corn.

The supplies of English barley into the port of
London have thus far been very moderate. This
grain had already began to rise in value when we
last addressed our readers, and the quantity since
received having fallen materially short of what has
been needed, prices have moved up day by day.
Moderately good malting qualities are now bring-
ing 35s. to 36s., and for picked parcels 38s. to
40s. per qr. has been paid. Foreign barley for
grinding has been in lively request, and is quite 5s.
per qr. higher than at the close of September. Of
Danish, scarcely any remains on the market ;
hence attention has been directed to Southern
barley. Egyptian, which was when we last ad-
dressed our readers ' obtainable at 22s. to 23s.,
cannot now be bought under 2Ss. to 29s., indeed
the finer sorts are held at 30s. per qr., and even
higher.

Malt has, of course, been influenced by the state
of the barley trade ; fine old may be quoted 73s. to
74s., and even up to 76s. per qr., with a very free
sale.

The arrivals of oats have been perfectly insig-
nificant; and notwithstanding the economy in con-
sumption caused by high prices, stocks in granary
and in the dealers' hands have been reduced into a
very narrow compas ; indeed, so small is the quan-
tity remaining in London, that it becomes a matter
of doubt whether the stocks will hold out to the
time that it may become safe to feed on new alone.
The finer descriptions cf foreign have nearly dis-
appeared altogether, and we have scarcely any
but Archangel left. This description of oats

was worth 23s. to 25s, per qr. at the close of last
month, whereas there are now no sellers below 29s.
to 30s., and for a cargo of very fine prepared
Russian 32s. 6d. per qr. was paid last Monday.
New oats of home growth have come forward but
sparingly; the quality is generally fine, still they
are not fit to be used without being mixed with old.
English vary in value from 27s. to 32s., Irish from
29s. to 33s., and Scotch from 30s. to 35s. per qr.

Beans and peas have participated in the general
improvement; the rise on each of these articles
since we last addressed our readers may be fairly
estimated at 5s. per qr, Indian corn has also ad-
vanced several shilhngs per qr., aud a purchase is
reported to have been made last week at Liverpool
for shipment to Italy — an event, we believe, almost
unprecedented.

The grain trade abroad has naturally been
a good deal influenced by the turn affairs have
taken in this country ; but even before any advance
took place here, prices had already begun to tend
upwards at many of the continental markets, the
deliveries from the growers having actually fallen
short of what had been needed for local consump-
tion. In most of the northern parts of Europe, but
little grain is, as a general rule, brought to market
until after autumn sowing has been finished ;
indeed, the plan is in the majority of cases to wait
until after a fall of snow has formed sledge-roads,
so as to facilitate the transport from the interior to
the consuming towns. A high range of pi;ices may,
of course, induce individual farmers to adopt other
means of bringing their goods forward for sale ; but
such is the exception to the rule. This being the
case, and old stocks having been almost everywhere
exhausted, it is tolerably plain that no shipments
of moment can be expected to be made from any of
the northern ports until the spring of next year ;
and it may be questioned whether even then the
exports will be large, as the reports of the yield of
the harvest are throughout northern Europe less
favourable than they were previous to the crops
having been secured.

The latest advices from Danzig state that very
Uttle wheat was arriving there from Poland, the
prices obtainable at Warsaw being better than those
current at Danzig. The smallness of the quantity
on sale, and the fact that a few vessels were com-
pleting their cargoes, had enabled sellers to obtain
high terms. Middling qualities of new wheat had
been sold at 67s. to 68s., and fine at 70s. to 72s.
per qr. free on board ; but as news of the great
advance which has lately taken place here had not
then been received, it may be expected that the next
accounts from thence will quote higher prices than
those named. Some uneasiness was beginning to
be felt in Prussia, as to the possibihty of the allied

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

4133

powers interfering with, the trade in Russian goods
by land carriage, a considerable portion of the pro-
duce of the latter country having found its way to
the coast, and been shipped off to Great Britain,
&c., via Prussian ports. Letters from Danzig, of
the 24th inst,, state that an active demand for wheat
had been experienced there, and nearly the whole
of the granaried stock had been bought for ship-
ment to England, Holland, and Belgium. The
entire quantities taken for export had amounted
to about 10,000 qrs., leaving scarcely any-
thing on hand ; the rise in prices from the 8th
Sept. had amounted to 15s. to I7s. per qr., and 70s.
to 72s. per qr. free on board had been paid for good
high-mixed samples.

Scarcely anything was being brought forward by
the neighbouring farmers, who had up to that
period been too busily engaged in the fields to allow
of much leisure for thrashing or sending grain to
market. At the Lower Baltic ports absolutely no
old wheat remains ; and according to the most
recent advices, but little new had made its appear-
ance. Some increase in the latter was, however,
expected to take place in November, and contracts
had been entered into for delivery in that month.
At Stettin as much as 66s. per qr. free on board
had been paid for 61 lbs. red, and the same price
for mixed Polish, whilst fine white had brought
70s. per qr. At Rostock it had been very difficult
to secure the small quantity needed to complete the
cargoes of the two or three vessels loading, and
65s. 6d. per qr. had been paid for moderate qualities
of new wheat. At the near continental ports the
rise has been as rapid as with us, and imports
could not at present be made with profit from
Hamburg, Bremin, or the Danish islands.

The advices from France state that supplies from
the growers had, notwithstanding the tempting
rates current, been only moderate, and that, with the
addition of what had been imported, the quantity
offered for sale had scarcely kept pace with what
had been needed for consumption. Prices had
consequently continued to advance; and though
the great rise here must have the effect of stopping
further shipments of wheat from Great Britain to
France, there is Httle prospect of the tide turning
the other way, and the chances of business being
done between the two countries with advantage is
therefore at present but shght. At Paris the stock
of flour had been reduced into a smaller com-
pass than had been the case on any previous ac-
casion for years ; and it was the jirevailing opinion
that the value of food would ^rule high throughout
the winter. That the reports of the probable re-
sult of the harvest were somewhat exaggerated by
the French press appears not unlikely ; indeed, ac-

counts of an unfavourable nature have been for-
bidden by the Government to be circulated.

From the Mediterranean we have nothing of
interest to report. The Italian Government have
deemed it prudent to continue the prohibition
of export of grain; but, even if this were not the
case, we question whether any supplies could be
calculated on from thence, the absence of supplies
from the Black Sea being a matter of serious im-
portance, as most of the ports in the Mediterranean
are in the habit of receiving a considerable portion
of what they consume annually from the Black
Sea and Azoff.

In Spain, the harvest has given a very abundant
return, and it is probable that Great Britain will
receive some quantity of flour from that country.
The great drawback to Spain furnishing supplies
is the difficulty and expense attending the transit
of agricultural produce from the interior to the
coast. When this difficulty shall have been over-
come, Spain will probably be in a position to export
grain and flour largely.

We have accounts of recent dates from the
United States, the news having been received
there that a decided rally had taken place in prices
in the English markets ; holders had raised their
pretensions, and it is tolerably evident that it would
not need much to create excitement in the corn
trade in the American markets.

Stocks at the ports on the seaboard were small,
and the arrivals from the interior to the ports on
the coast had fallen short of expectation. The yield
of wheat does not appear to have been so abundant
as expected, whilst Indian corn seems to have given
a better return than had been reckoned on, the
drought having done less mischief than was feared
would have been the case.

New York letters of the 14th inst. inform us
that after the arrival of the English mail, flour had
been held 25 to 372 cents per barrel higher, which
had interfered with the execution of the orders
brought out. Hardly anything had been shipped
during the month of September; and as the stocks
on hand were scarcely sufficient to provide for local
wants during the winter, it was the prevailing belief
that very little would be exported.

COMPARATIVE PRICES AND QUANTITIES

OF CORN. «

Averages from last

Friday's

Averages from the correspond-

Gazette.

Av.

ing Gazette in 1853. Av.

Qrs.

a. d.

Qrs. 8. d.

Wheat.... 150,277.

. 57 6

Wheat.... 85,066 .. 68 11

Barley.... 47.211 .

. 31 3

Barley.. .. 67,729 .. 40 7

Oats .... 16,452 .

. 25 9

Oats .... 12,489 . . 24 2

Rye 980 .

. 35 2

Rye 275 .. 38 4

Beans 4,974 .

. 44 10

Beans .... 4,587 . . 45 7

Peas .... 1,776 .

. 40 9

Peas .... 1,506 .. 50 7

164

THE FARMER^S MAGAZINE,

72 „ 73

ralier., 35

72 extra

74 „

72 ..

— 40

otato. . 30

Potato 33

SO fine

28 fine

46 „ 48

48 „ 50

50 „ 52

54 „ 56

Grey 38

— „ 65

™ „ 62

— „ 58

CURRENCY PER IMPERIAL MEASURE.

Shillmga per Quarter

Wheat, Essex and Kent, white. ., . 71 to 75 extra 77 80
Ditto, red .... 66

Norfolk, Lincoln. & Yorksh., red. . 66
Barley, malting, new. . 32 33 .... Ch

DistiUing . . — — Gi

Malt, Essex, Norfolk, and Suffolk, new 70

Bitto ditto old 68

Kingston, Ware, and town made,new72

Ditto ditto old 70

Eye —

Oats, English feed .. 27 31 Potato

Scotch feed, new 30 31, old 32 33 .,

tesh feed, white 28

Ditto, black., 24

Beans, Mazagan 44

Ticks 46

Harrow., 48

Pigeon 48

Peas, white boilers 47 51. . Maple 41 43
^LOUK, town made, per sack of 280 lbs. —

Households, Town 62s. 643. Country

Norfolk and Suffolk, ex-ship .... •—

FOREIGN GRAIN.

ShilHnffo per Quarter

Wheat, Dantzic, mixed. . 72 to 75 high raised — 80 extra 85
Konigsberg........70 73 „ — 78 „ 80

Rostock, new 74 76 fine 80 „ 85

American, white 72 76 red 70 75

Pomera.,Meckbg.,andUckernik.,red 72 75 extra . . 80

Silesian , „ — — white — —

Danish and Holstein ........ „ 68 75 „ none

Rhine and Belgium „ — — old — —

Odessa, St, Petersburg and Riga.. 63 68 fine— 70

Barley, grinding 26 31 Distilliug.. 31 33

Oats, Dutch, brew, and Polands 20s., Sis. .. Feed ,. 26 28
Danish & Swedish feed 30s. to 31s. Sti-alsund 31 32

Russian 28 32 ......... . French. . none

Beans, Friesland and Holstein 42 46

Konigsberg . . 44 48 Egyptian . . 38 40

Peas, feeding 42 45 fine boilers 45 50

Indian Corn, white 42 46 yeUow 42 46

Flour, French, per sack (none) — — none — —
American, sour per barrel 36 38 sweet 45 48

IMPERIAL AVERAGES.
For the last Six Weeks

Wheat.

Barley.

Oats.

Beana

Peas.

Week. Ending:

s. d.

3. d.

Sept. 16, 1854. .

52 5

29 2

25 11

45 10

36 10

Sept. 23,1854..

53 2

29 2

24 7

42 9

37 0

Sept. 30, 1854. .

55 9

29 2

25 3

42 11

37 11

Oct. 7, 1854..

56 7

29 11

25 6

44 0

39 3

Oct. 14. 1854. .

57 0

30 G

25 4

44 4

39 0

Oct. 21, 1854. .

57 6

31 3

25 9

44 10

40 9

Aggregate average

of last six weeks

55 5

29 10

25 5

44 1

38 6

Comparative avge.

same time lastyear

62 4

37 10

22 6

43 10

44 1

Duties 1 0

1 0

DIAGRAM SHOWING THE FLUCTUATIONS IN THE
AVERAGE PRICE OP WHEAT during the six
weeks ending Oct. 21, 1854.

Price.

Sept. 16.

Sept. 23.

Sept. 30.

Oct. 7.

Oct. 14.

Oct. 21. '5

593. 4d.
57s. Od.
56s. 7d.

••

--"""■" —

^LI

^.:l1

55s. 9d.

ft ..

.. r

•»

53s. 2d.

•• r

.»

52s. 5d.

PRICES OF SEEDS.
The market for Cloverseed and Trefoil continues in-
active. The high prices required for foreign seed
prevent any transactions for this market. Canaryseed
was firm this morning, and fully as dear. In our other
seeds we have no variation to note.

BRITISH SEEDS.
Linseed (per qr.). . sowing — s. to 643. ; crushing 563. to 60a,

Linseed Cakes (per ton). £10 Os.to £10 10s,

Rapeseed (per qr.) new 66s. to 72s,

Ditto Cake (per ton) £6 ISs. to £7 5s,

Cloverseed (per cwt.) (nominal) .... — s. to — s

Mustard (per bush.) white 8s. to 9s., . . brown old 10s. to 133

Coriander (per cwt.) new — s. to — a., old 203. to 24s

Canary (per qr.) 48s. to 58s

Carraway (per cwt.) new — a. to — s., old — s. to — s

Turnip, white (per bush.) — s. to — s Swede — s. to — s

Trefoil (per cwt.) new 20s. to 22s

Cow Grass (per cwt.) — s. to — s

, HOP MARKET.
BOROUGH, Monday, Oct. 30.
Our market is firmer, with a moderate demand
for fine qualities at fully the prices of last week. In
yearlings and old Hops there is not so much doing.

POTATO MARKETS.
BOROUGH AND SPITALFIELDS.

Monday, Oct. 30.
The supplies of home-grown Potatoes on sale in these
markets are very moderate, but in excellent condition.
The imports from abroad have amounted to only 25 bags
4 baskets from Amsterdam , 10 bags from Hambro', 129
baskets from Rotterdam, and 14 hampers from Amster-
dam. A steady business is doing, as follows : — Regents,
80s. to 95s. ; Shaws, 75s. to 85s. ; Blues, 80s. to 85s.
per ton.

PRICES OF BUTTER,
Butter, per cmt. s, s.

Friesland ., ., jo 106 to 108

Kiel 94 98

Dorset 110 112

Carloiv 98 100

Waterford .... 93 100

Coi-k, new 84 94

Limerick — —

Sligo — —

Fresh, per doz.l^s.QA. 143. Od.

CHEESE, HAMS, &c.

Cheese, per cmt. g. s .

Cheshire, nerv.,,. 66 io 80

Chedder 68 80

Double Gloucester 60 70
Single do. ..60 70

Hams, York, nen).,,^ 76 84
Westmoreland. .. 72 82
Irish 66 76

Bacon 72 74

Waterford — —

WOOL MARKETS.

ENGLISH WOOL MARKET.

London, Oct, 30.

As the supply of English wool on sale has rather increased,

and as the Colonial sales are now in progress, the demand has

become very inactive, and in some instances prices may be

considered a shade lower than last week.

Do7vn tegs ......

Half-breds

Ewes, clothing , .
Kent Fleeces . . ..
Combing Skins . .
Flannel Wool . . . .
Blanket Wool,. . .
Leicester Fleeces

g. d.

1 1 -

- 1

1 14 -

- 1

0 lU -

— 1

1 1 -

- 1

1 0 -

_ 1

on -

- 1

0 8^-

- 1

0 lU -

- 1

2
1^

o|-

2
2

Oi
LIVERPOOL WOOL MARKET, Oct. 28.

Scotch Wool. — There is a fair demand for laid Highland,
at late rates : white Highland has been less inquired for, but
stocks are light. For good crossed and Cheviots there is still
a fair demand, but for the heavy and bad-conditioned there is
no demand.

Laid Highland Wool,per2ilbg.
White Highland do.,..,,,.,.,.,.
Laid Crossed do,. unwashed .

Do.

Laid Chevio i

Do.
White Cheviot
Foreign Wool.-

6 to JO

do. .washed ..„

do,,un'vashed .

do., washed ..,»
do do..a

-The sales in London are progressing
very satisfactorily, which has given a better tone to our
markets, and the trade keep siipplying theraselvea with more
confidence.

Printed by Rogeraon and Tuxford, 346, Strand, London.

0&Mi

THE FAKMEE'S MAGAZINE.

DECEMBER, 1854.

PLATE I.

A SOUTHDOWN RAM.

Bred by and the property of w, sainsbury, esq., of west lavington, near devizes,

wiltshire,

For which the First Prize of Thirty Sovereigns in Class 2 was awarded at the Meeting of the Royal
Agricultural Society of England held at Lincoln, in July, 1854.

PLATE IL
JOUVENCE; A Celebrated French Mare,

BRED BY M. LUPIN, IN 1850.

.Touvence was got by Sting out of Currency, by St. Patrick ; her dam. Oxygen, by Emilius out of
Whizgig, by Rubens — Penelope, by Trumpator— Prunella, by Highflyer— Promise, by Snap.

Jouvence is a brown mare, standing fifteen hands two inches high; she has a good though not very
handsome head, cleanly set on to a straight, lengthy neck ; she has a splendid shoulder, good barrel and
back, with strong quarters, and very large gaskins ; she is, perhaps, rather hght in the bone, but taken
altogether is a lengthy, wiry, and good-looking mare. She has the further recommendatiori of a very
quiet and docile temper — a blessing which must have told much for her in all her many travels and
trials by land and by water*

STOCK FEEDING-

BY CUTHBERT W. JOHNSON, ESQ., F.R.S.

A few recently and carefully collected facts upon
the feeding of horses and cattle, it is very desirable
should attract the farmer's attention. He can
hardly spend a winter's evening more profitably
than by referring to some of these, for they all tend
to the great object of rendering stock keeping more
advantageous — a branch of rural economy which I
am ever anxious to see improved ; for it is, I feel
well assured, that section of the English farm pro-
duce which, in spite of free trade, will long con-
tinue to be the most steadily remunerative.

OLD SERIEgi.l

A valuable prize essay, on the diseases caused by
the improper feeding of farm horses, by Mr. J.
M'Gillivray, has recently been pubhshed {Trans.
High. Soc, 1854, p. 357). This gentleman, who
is an esteemed veterinary surgeon in Aberdeen-
shire, when treating upon the diseases carelessly
caused by the improper treatment of the horse,
alludes also to the functional derangements of
cattle. He remarks very truly, that much of the
diseases occurring amongst animals is the result of
improper or negli^fent treatment, and might be
I I rVOL, XLI,-=-No, S.

4()t3

fUE. FARMER'S MAQAZINE.

avoided by a proper attention to feediiig', tiousing,
&c. "To professional men," hecontinues, " it is well
known that the present system of fatteniug cattle,
although well calculated to accomplish the object
in view, is decidedly inimical to good health and a
sound constitution. Scarcely a single high-fed ox
can be found perfectly free from disease of the liver
or other viscera, either organic or functional. And
although between the system of feeding cattle pro-
fitably for the butcher and bringing horses into
good condition for work there must be a wide and
well-marked difference, yet I meet v/ith many
cases in which by far too great a resemblance exists.
Doubtless the word ' condition,' as applicable to
horses in general, admits of various interpretations,
and may refer to different states according to par-
ticular breeds, and the nature of the work they
may be destined to perform. Condition in the
heavy draught, the dray, or farm horse, will imply,
with other things, a round, plump, heavy figure, as
a ponderous carcass will materially assist in moving
heavy loads at a slow rate, especially on streets or
common roads. Condition, again, in the race-horse
or hunter, impUes well-developed, fine, and firm
muscle, fitting the animal for quick and agile move-
ments ; and this cannot be accomplished by ro-
tundity of figure or fatness of carcass."

Mr. M'Gillivray then refers to the cases of acute
indigestion, an affection induced most commonly
by an animal having eaten too freely of green suc-
culent food, such as grass in the early part of the
season, or green tares, &c. ; or it will occur at any
time, if such food be consumed in too great quanti-
ties; large quantities of potatoes, boiled or raw,
will have the same effect. A horse suffering from
an attack of acute indigestion, induced by any or
the above causes, will present the following
symptoms : — Paroxysms of intense pain, with
heaving at the flanks ; at an early stage he lies
down, and immediately gets up again ; if at liberty
to do so, he turns round and round, frequently
voids small quantities of dung, makes repeated
attempts to urinate, often puts the nose to the side,
distension commences, when down he attempts to
roll ; sometimes a twitching of the subcutaneous
muscles is seen, the animal has an agonised look,
apoplectic or phrenetic symptoms appear, vulgarly
called staggers ; this is followed by great debilitj',
and the membranes of the eyes are inflamed. All
these symptoms increase in intensity, and if not
speedily removed, the animal sinks to rise no more.
In the absence of a veterinary surgeon, the chief
remedies applied by Mr. M'Gillivray appear to be
a drench of tincture of opium and sweet spirit of
nitre in a bottle of tepid water.

Another cause of derangement and disease in
the digestive system, is the practice of putting

liorses to hard work immediately after they liaVti
been freely fed. It is well known to professional
men, that severe exercise or exertion retards, if it
does not altogether stop, digestion. It is no easy
matter to experiment on the horse, so as to have
proof positive of this doctrine ; however, we have
proof by direct experiment made on the dog. The
practice of allowing horses to drink largely imme-
diately before going to work, is a very dangerous
one, even independently of the food. The quantity
of water given, and the manner in which horses
are allowed to take it, is another important question
in stable management well enforced by Mr.
M'Gillivray. Horses, he well contends, should be
regularly and frequently supplied with water of
good quality. A gentleman who keeps horses con-
stantly on the I'oad, observed to me, in speaking of
a servant — " That was the best keeper of horses I
ever had ; none ever had my horses in such good
order, and it was just with ivater and regularity he
did it; he was always giving them a little water.
There could be no other difference, as my loads are
always exactly the same (meal), and my allowance
of food is the same." It should be remembered that
the stomach of a horse is comparatively small : I
believe that of the largest horse would not contain
four gallons ; and if he is allowed to drink largely
soon after feeding, the food will be washed out of
the stomach in an undigested state, and will fer-
ment in the large intestines. Colic, or gripes, is a
disease, in my opinion, very often the consequence
of the state in which the food is supplied to the
animal. Fully two-thirds of the cases, it seems,
which occur annually in the practice of Mr.
M'Gillivray, are between the middle of October and
the end of the following December. Moreover,
these cases of colic are mostly confined to horses
fed with new straw and new corn. He thinks that
if horses were supplied with well-seasoned hay and
oats during autumn, two-thirds of the cases of
colic would disappear. Mr. Cowie, of Halberton
Mains, who has tried many experiments on the
cooking of food for horses, thus sums up the re-
sult of his valuable experience : " I never cook any
food for my horses ; they are all fed with bruised
oats, and straw or hay occasionally in spring. It
is a great mistake not to bruise the grain for old
horses or greedy feeders, as they eat so much of
it v/ithout being masticated. The veterinary sur-
geon to Barclay and Perkins' brewery horses told
me that he tested the result of giving horses un~
bruised oats, by making some of them swallow them
in a ball, when he found that nearly half of the
grain was voided quite sound, and even vegetated
on being put under ground."

The remark of Mr. M'Gillivray, as to the often
diseased state of the livers of highly-fed cattle, is

THE FARMER'S MAGA21NE.

one wlilcli has ofteil fefipgsd my attention. That
diseased livers rather tend to make sheep fatten
faster in some cases, was an observation perhaps
first made by the celebrated Bakewell. It is a well-
known fact that overgrown livers of geese, so higbly
prized by the German gourmands, are produced by
high feeding the animal whilst it is kept in a warm
temperature. It is pretty certain, however, that
the animals r/hose livers are diseased do not possess
all those properties most essential to the farmer's
profit. And as it is known that certain mineral
substances, when taken in small doses, materially
promote the fattening of animals, it might be well
if some careful experiments were inade as to the
action of these and other chemical substances in
preserving the liver from disease. If the circum-
stances in which a fattening animal is placed has
so material an influence upon its health as to render
it worthy of the stock-owner's careful attention,
equally important to him are the hereditary tenden-
cies and predisposing causes of disease which may
be commonly so safely calculated upon by the con-
siderate purchaser. On the hereditary diseases of
cattle, a recently published and valuable prize
essay, by Mr. Finlay Dun will repay the far-
mer's perusal {Jour. R. A. S., vol. xv., p. 7Q)- He
names, as the more important hereditary diseases
of cattle, diarrhcsa, rheumatism, scrofula, con-
sumption, dysentery, malignant tumours, and the
affections depending on a plethoric state of body.
He enumerates the characters which it is desirable
for cattle to possess, that they may perpetuate in
their ofispring a healthy and vigorous constitution.
The head small, muzzle fine and tapering, nostrils
large and open, the eyes full and lustrous, ears
small, and not too thick, the head well set on the
neck, the distance between the ears and the angle
of the jaw short, but the width behind the ears
considerable (no dairy cow should have a short
thick neck), the chest wide and deep ; the girth,
taken immediately behind the shoulder, should
closely correspond with the length from behind the
ears to the rise of the tail ; the carcase of a barrel
shape, for a thin, flat-ribbed animal eats largely,
thrives badly, and is unusually liable to diarrhoea ;
there should be little space between the prominence
of the hip and the last rib, the quarter large, the
measurement from the prominence of the haunch
backwards to the rise of the tail, and downv/ards
to the hock, as great as possible ; the lower part of
the haunch thick and broad, the hide thick and
pliant; smallness of bone is a sure indication of
early maturity and aptitude for fattening. These,
amongst other characters and qualities enumerated
by Mr. Dun, indicate the possession of a vigorous
and healthy constitution, and freedom from all in-
herent disease.

The tempel'ature in which an animal is confined
must also have a material influence upon the fer-
mentation of the dung with which it is too often
surrounded. A high temperature, sufficient to en-
gender disease, must also promote the rapid forma-
tion of ammonia— and this, where it is evolved, not
only injures the beast, but impoverishes the dung.
This is indeed one great drawback to the advan-
tages of the box system. Under the cooler and
better ventilation system of a covered homestall,
these losses may probably be escaped ; for the
effect of a lower temperature will be alike advan-
tageous to the progress of the live stock, and the
richness of the farm-yard compost.

Lord Kinnaird has during the past year reported
upon his farther good experience on covered farm
steadings, giving plans, and an estimate of the ex-
pense {Jour. R. A. S., vol. xiv., p. 336). The
details, he tells us, have not been laid down on any
theoretical principle, but are the results of practical
experience, and that the increased returns from his
farm, and the reduction of expense since the adop-
tion of this plan, afford him undeniable evidence of
its efficacy. A steading entirely covered in, he finds,
effects, a great saving in farm produce, which must
otherwise be exposed to the injurious eff"ects of the
weather, while the amount consumed and destroyed
by the stock is considerably less. But the most
remarkable result of his experience is in the in-
creased value of the manure. In some of his ex-
periments on the action upon potatoes of farm-yard
dung prepared in covered and uncovered yards, and
upon the following crop of wheat, this last receiving
in the spring a top-dressing of 3 cwt. of Peruvian
guano per acre, one acre of each produced potatoes
in tons, cwts., and lbs., wheat in bushels and lbs.,
and straw in stones of 22 lbs. {Jour. R. A. S., vol.
xiv., p. 337)—

Covered dung. Uncovered dung.

Potatoes.... 11 17 56........ 7 6 8

„ .... 11 12 26...,,... 7 18 99

Wheat.. 55 5 41 19

„ 53 47 42 38

Straw 220..., ,..,152

210 160

These investigations can scarcely be too highly
valued : they not only tend to the increase of the
stock-owner's profits in stall and shed feeding, but
they lead to the great secondary advantage of ren-
dering the manure of the farm-yard more fertiUzing,
and consequently the soil to which it is applied
more productive of food for that stock. We may,
then, feel full confidence that very considerable im-
provements in this great branch of agriculture will
yet continue to reward the skill, the science, and
the enterprise of England's farmers.

I I 2

TiiE i'Aill-.iiiil'o MAGAZINE.

THE NEW METROPOLITAN CATTLE MARKET,

The enclosures and buildings for the new metropolitan
cattle market are fast approaching to completion ; but
although in a sufficiently forward state to admit of the
great Christmas sale being held in them, as lately pro-
posed, by selling pigs and calves in the sheep or bullock
lairs until their own are finished, the opening of the
market has been postponed at the solicitation of the
trade until the end of January, when it is hoped the
whole works will be finished according to the require-
ments of the statute, subsequently quoted. In treating
our subject, we shall first give a description of the New
Market, buildings, &c., with a short account of the old;
and second, offer a few observations on how individual
interests are likely to be affected by the removal of
Smithfield.

In giving a description of this national undertaking
we are enabled, through the kindness of Mr, J. B. Bun-
ning, the City Architect, and Mr. Laurie, the Clerk of
the Works, to place before our readers the accompany-
ing rude sketch, or ground-plan, which will greatly fa-
cilitate our task. The copies we were permitted to take
from plans in the architect's office, on tracing-paper, are
on a large scale, and in reducing them to a proper size
we have been obliged to leave out some details, which,
however, will be found separately on a larger scale by
themselves. We allude to the diagrams v. s. r.

In juxta position with the ground-plan of the new
market we give a sketch of the old (Smithfield), taken
from Parliamentary Blue Books. They are both drawn
to one scale, and at the first glance cannot fail to con-
vince the most thorough-going opponent to change that
the former involves improvements of no ordinary magni-
tude.

The site chosen for the market (Copenhagen Fields)
is generally admitted to be the best whicli could have
been made both for sanitary and commercial purposes ;
for its elevation not only secures for it a pure and
healthy atmosphere, but the most effectual means of
drainage; while its proximity to the Great Northern and
North London railways admits of the whole live-stock
being brought within its gates, thus avoiding street-
driving in going to market, more so than if it had been
further from the centre of the capital. In this respect
it presents a singular contrast to Smithfield, which,
although situated on rather elevated grounds, is yet sur-
rounded with a confined and impure atmosphere, narrow
crowded streets, and almost every inconvenience which
it is possible for a fat-stock market to experience.
From occupying nearly the entire space between
Maiden-lane and Caledonian-road — two great thorough-
fares of the northern suburbs— the site also affords
equal facilities for the delivery of stock and slaughtered
meat to butchers.

There are no fewer than nine entrances to the
grounds. From Maiden-lane three, from the Cale-
donian-road an equal number, and also three on the

south side between the letters f f r f from the North
London Railway. The latter three are not yet in a
passable state ; but the hoarding across the former six
has only to be removed (a work of a few minutes'
time) when they are ready for the ingress and
egress of stock. Cattle for the market by the Great
Northern Railway will bs delivered from the trucks
immediately adjoining the north-eastern entrance (x) ;
while those by the London and North Western will,
when the works are finished, be brought to the three
southern entrances (f f f) by a branch from the North
London line. When removed by salesmen to their own
private lairs, the delivery from the railways will, cf
course, be as at present ; and the entrance to the market
by some one or other of the six approaches from the
east and west. The emptying of the market, again,
from its now being situated at the circumference cf the
capital, will be a very diff'erent concern from what baa
been experienced from Smithfield the centre : but
butchers' men and drovers will soon find out those
streets where the animals will meet with the least
obstruction from trafiic in reaching their different
destinations.

Upwards of 75 acres have been enclosed, by a lofty
brick wall, for the purposes of the market. This area,
it will be perceived from the plan, is of an irregular
form, and has been subdivided as follows, viz. : The
market-grounds (a) — properly so called — with the banks
and clock-tower in the centre, comprise 15 acres and 4
poles ; the ox-lairs (b) to the south of the latter, contain
8 acres and 11 poles; the sheep-lairs (c) to the left, 6
acres and 3 poles ; public slaughterhouses (n) below the
latter, 5 acres and 34 poles ; private slaughterhouses
(e) on the opposite side of the bullock-lairs, 3 acres 1
rood and 19 poles ; spare-grounds (f f f f) forming the
southern boundary, for the enlargement of any of the
above branches of the trade, or others which may sub-
sequently be started, 4 acres 2 roods and 27 poles ;
spare-grounds (g) to the east or right of the market, 10
acres and 32 poles ; the north division of spare-grounds
(h), extending [to within 200 yards of Camden-road,
11 acres 1 rood and 11 poles; and the balance of II
acres and 19 poles in roads, exclusive of those within the
market division (a), but including those within the bul-
lock-lairs (b). For the sake of perspicuity, the whole
may be tabulated thus : —

Acres. Roods. Poles.

Market^A 15 0 4

Bullock lairs, b 8 0 11

Sheep lairs, c 6 0 ^

Public slaughter-houses, D .... 5 0 34

Private ditto, e 3 1 1^

Koads 11 0 19

Spare grounds, ffff 4 2 27

Ditto, ditto, G 10 0 32

Ditto, ditto. H 11 1 11

75 0 0

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

469

It will thus be seen that upwards of 48 acres have
already been appropriated to the present exigencies of
the market, and upwards of 26 left for future enlarge-
ment as the growth of the metropolis and consequent
increase oftrade may demand. Objections have been taken
to the smallness of this latter area, but the objectors ap-
pear to have overlooked more than one fact; for inits pre-
sent position a daily market can be held without inter-
fering with the general commerce of the capital. In
other words, that within the 75 acres some 30,000 bul-
locks and 240,000 sheep may be weekly disposed of,
and that when the consumption exceeds this, more than
one market will be required. In short, the above terri-
torial provision for the market is as large as it should be
in one place — sufficient, probably, to accommodate all
the fat stock which Britain herself may have to dispose
of in it — so that the erection of a foreign cattle market
somewhere contiguous to the river is a subject which
may legitimately be discussed at some future period.

Following in our description the general progress of the
works, a vast amount of levelling has been executed in
order to place the grounds in their present state for the
market. The general surface, for instance, of
the market and sheep lairs has been consider-
ably lowered, that of the cattle lairs slightly so ;
while the grounds for the slaughter-houses, &c., and
those under f f f f, have been raised so as to give an
uniform inclination to the whole, which, from the banks
in the centre of the market, slopes gently to the south.
The soil is excellent brick-earth, and in effecting these
improvements, part was made into bricks for the walls,
and a sufficient quantity burned so as to give a covering
of 14 inches in depih to the whole appropriated grounds,
including the space grounds f f f f and g ; while 6
inches of this 14 have been formed into an excellent
concrete under the market and lairs — the former being
paved with granite cubes 5 inches broad by 5 inches
deep, and 10 inches long ; and the latter with vitrified
bricks, exclusive of the calf and pig markets, which will
be found to serve the double purpose of markets and lairs ;
thus securing efficient drainage with the most healthy
and durable foundation. The spare grounds (h) remain
in their natural state, with the exception of the small
portion appropriated to taverns ; and were the liquid
manure of the market applied, might yield several hun-
dred tons of grass annually for soiling in the lairs during
summer until otherwise appropriated.

In draining the grounds, provision has been made
for disposing of the sewage of the market and lairs for
manure to any party who may wish to farm it, either in
a solid or liquid form, or partly both, and for the removal
of rain-water and sewage not thus disposed of.

The main sewer discharges its contents beyond the
north-eastern entrance of the grounds at x ; is 4 feet 6
inches in depth, by 2 feet 9 inches wide ; runs along the
southern and eastern i-oads in the direction k, l, n, on-
wards to X, and is from 11 to 42 feet below the surface.
The sub-mains are 4 feet by 2}, and run from m to n,
and from o along the west and northern sides of the
market, under the roads ; the former into m n, and the
latter into the principal sewer. Into these, the rain-

water and sewage are conveyed from the different gratings
in large pipes : no fewer than ten drains of these inter-
sect the market froai north to south, falling into the
manurial main-drain described in the next paragraph,
and for the lairage and slaughtering departments a cor-
responding number.

The submain sewer, m n, runs under the centre of
the middle road ; and to intercept the sewag^ from the
market, for manurial purposes, an additional sewer has
been placed under the foot pavement along the north
side of that road, which discharges itself into a tank or
receptacle proposed to be made in the spare grounds g,
where we have described a small circle. Now, the prin-
cipal main sewer at the point n, being about 40 feet
below the surface, and the manurial main drain where it
crosses it only 13 feet below the surface, this difference
of depth admits of the rain-water and flushings of the
market, not fit for manure, being easily turned from the
latter into the former by means of a sluice in the bottom.
The first flushings of the market may, for instance, be
conveyed into the manure tank, and the second into the
main sewer by means of this manurial main-drain and
sluice.

Water, in ample abundance, for stock, flushing the
market, slaughterhouses, and other purposes, has been
procured from the New River, cocks being placed at
convenient distances throughout the grounds. The
whole is lighted with gas, and the necessary provision
made of lamps, &c., for this purpose.

Such, with the wires of the two Telegraph Companies,
are what may be termed the underground works. In
describing those more conspicuous to the eye, we shall
commence with the banks and clock-tower in the centre
of the market grounds, which may not inaptly be
termed the mainspring of the whole.

Ihe clock-tower, represented on the plan by a black
square spot in the centre of the bank-buildings, is not
yet finished, but will be 150 feet high. The clock itself is
to have four illuminated dials, each 13 feet in diameter,
and the bell is to weigh about a ton ; so that, as a time-
piece, it will both be seen and heard a long way beyond
the market grounds.

The bank-buildings form a regular polygon
of twelve sides, 143 feet in diameter, and pre-
sent a frontage of 40 feet on each side. Eleven
sides are appropriated to as many banks, and the
remaining or twelfth side, that fronting the south or
bullock-lairs, the entrance to the clock-tower, with two
telegraph-offices, one on each side. The buildings are
only one storey, are lofty, and have the interior rooms
lighted from the roof. They are ventilated by Arnott's
ventilators, and in winter heated by gas-stoves. The
eleven banking-offices and two telegraph-offices a will
be seen only to occupy a very small area of the 75 acres.
But within this small area we shall not attempt to
describe the busy scene which every market-day will
present. Suffice it to say that machinery is here
organized which will collect something like the round
sum of £8,000,000 annually from the butchers of the
metropolis, and hand it over to the British farmer !

The area occupied by roads exceeds twice the whole

470

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

area of Smithfield ; for that, without the market, is
upwards of 11 acres, as we have already seen, while
there are several acres within it. The two roads, o x
and M w, intersecting the entire grounds from east to
west, and also the two, one on the east and the other on
the west side of the market running between them, are
each 60 feet wide. On each side of these four roads
there is a foot-pavement 10 feet broad ; thus leaving a
clear roadway of 40 feet for cattle. The i-emaining road
(k l), running between Maiden-lane and Caledonian-
road, is 50 feet wide, the roadway for cattle being 30
feet. The three roads intersecting the bullock-lairs
frcem north to south, are each 40 feet wide, and those
in the sheep lairs about the same. The market-ground,
again, presents a checkered ramification of roads of
three different kinds, or rather for three different pur-
poses : first, those for the exclusive use of the banks ;
second, those for cattle, including sheep and pigs ; and,
ihlrd, those for the trade (buyers and sellers).

Of the four roads leading to the banks, and inter-
secting the market-ground into four equal areas, that
from the south side, or middle road (m n), is for the ex-
clusive use of the banks, being so constructed that
bankers' carriages and cabs shall not interfere with
cattle, or cattle with them. It is 40 feet wide, with a
foot-pavement 10 feet broad on each side ; thus leaving
a clear way for carriages of 20 feet. On the opposite,
or northern side of the banks, there is also a foot-
pavement 10 feet broad, with rails on each side, in the
centre of a 40-feet road; thus leaving a 15.feet roadway
on each side, the one for oxen, and the other sheep.

The cattle market occupies the eastern half of the
whole area, or that between the banks and the road run-
ning alongside the spare ground g to n. The sheep
market, about two-thirds of the area, on the other side
of the banks ; and the calf and pig markets {a and h),
the remainder on the west side. The whole is sur-
rounded by a ring fence, the brick wall of the calf and
pig markets forming the west side, the other three sides
being iron-railing, and has some twenty-two entrances
leading to the different roads and subdivisions, as will
be seen on reference to the plan ; thus rendering that
confusion experienced in Smithfield on entering and re-
moving stock to and from the market almost impossible,
if but the least attention is paid by drovers and butchers'
boys to what follows.

In the cattle department, for instance, a road nearly
20 feet wide, for entering and removing stock, surrounds
it from the bankers' entrance on the south side to that
on the north, closely adjoining the fence. Other two
roads, each 20 feet wide, will be seen running the entire
length of the market between the first two small en-
trances on the east side of the bank. road, or principal
south and north entrances. Another road, 30 feet wide,
for the same purpose, leads from the banks to the east
side ; while the half- road, 15 feet wide, already referred
to, runs from the banks to the north. So that cattle
have no fewer than five roads and ten gates for their
own exclusive use, of easy access, and so planned that
one salesman will not be annoyed with the sales of
another in passing him when being removed.

The roads, or rather footpaths, for salesmen and
butchers in this department are twenty-four in number,
of which four, each 3 feet wide, run the whole length of
the market from north to south, passing between the
" kicking bars " or " trevices," subsequently ex-
plained ; and twenty, 6 feet wide, transversely aci'oss the
last-mentioned four, or from east to west, between the
heads of the cattle when tied up to the rails for sale.
Gates are placed upon the entrances of these, to prevent
cattle getting in during the filling of the market, &c.

The sheep market is divided, by narrow passages
crossing each other, into thirty-eight parallelograma-
tical or four-sided areas, within which the pens are placed.
The passages running north and south are 10 feet wide,
with the exception of the half road from the banks to
the north gate, which is 15 feet wide ; ten of the cross
ones are eight feet wide, the one next the north fence IS
feet 10 inches, as in the cattle department ; and the
middle road leading from the bank 30 feet.

A broad road, 38 feet wide, runs right through, be-
tween the two buildings for the calf and pig markets,
while a broad footpath runs along the middle of each,
and narrower ones branch off to each side between the
pens of the latter and rails of the former.

The cattle are to be tied to rails as in Smithfield.
The rails are of two different lengths, four rows extend-
ing the whole length of the market, being 36 feet 9
inches long ; and three rows 55 feet 4 inches. They are
made of strong wooden bars, are supported by cast metal
posts, at short distances ; and, though simple, the whole
yet presents a very workman-like and finished appear-
ance. They stand in pairs as it were, 6 feet apart — the
distance between the pairs being 30 feet 2\ inches. At
each end of a rail there is a " kicking bar" 5 feet long.
The diagram k shows 5 rails, b b b h b, with their com-
plement of kicking rails — a a, &c. The animals when
on sale stand with their heads at the rails b b, and their
tails at the dotted lines c c. The standings have a gen-
tle and equal slope or inclination backwards to the gut-
ters and gratings for the removal of the droppings,
between the dotted lines e e, so that we shall have some
6,000 to 7,000 head of cattle exhibiting two rows of
heads and two rows of tails alternately, throughout the
whole market, with "barons of beef" and "rump
steaks" in such a uniform and business-like manner, as
cannot fail to have a very imposing appearance when
seen from the clock-tower or balconies of the market
taverns and public -houses, and no doubt will furnish a
fruitful subject to more than our metropolitan artists.

In the sheep department the pens are all 8 feet 3
inches square, as uniform in construction as if they had
been made in one mould, so to speak, the mechanical
details being in perfect harmony with those of the cattle
market. The diagram v represents one of thj four-
sided rectangular areas in the second row from the pig-
market, shewing the manner in which the pens are
placed, there being 60 in that division ; and the dia-
gram s, a single pen on a larger scale, the manner in
which the interior pens are filled and emptied. The
first row from the calf and pig markets contains eleven
divisions, each 9 pens by 6, or giving 54 pens, and the

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

471

twelfth a half-size, or 27 pens. The next row eleven
60-pen divisions and one half-size of 30 pens. The
fourth row is divided at the south end into two, making
eight small divisions, seven of which contain 24 pens
each, and one only 12 ; and of the remaining divisions
on the north side we have four of 54 pens each, one of
27, and another 41 — total 1,775. The open space at
A (108 feet by 257) is paved and ready for more pens
being erected when required ; meantime it may be used
as sorting ground for butchers collecting their purchases.

The diagram requires explanation. " Necessity is
the mother of invention," and the want of space in
Smithfield has given rise to ingenuity which our readers
in rural districts may never have dreamed of, however
hard up they may have been for accommodation to their
flocks. The pi'oposition at issue is a pen which will
admit of sheep being driven through it in any direction.
This is accomplished by one fixed angle, as at a, and
four gates, b b and e c. If if is intended, for in-
stance, to drive sheep in the direction e c, through
the pen s, then a drover opens the two gates c c, placing
them in the direction of the dotted lines e e, takes one
in each hand, and, standing between them, keeps the
sheep behind him in the pen from getting out, or those
passing before him from getting in. And before that
lot has well passed, perhaps, another drover is shouting
to open the gate h b, when click go the gates e c, and up
b b, the drover standing between them again, the sheep
running past in that direction ; and so on during filling
and emptying. Drovers are plentiful and cheap, but
land scarce and dear ; and the practice adapts itself, it
will be seen, to both exigencies.

The calf market, a, consists of two large covered
buildings, each 261 feet long by about 40 feet wide,
with a 38 -feet road between them. The floors are of
granite blocks, as already stated, and raised to a level
with the bottom of a cart or waggon ; so that, when
such vehicles are backed to the entrances, the calves
may be walked up to their rails with the least possible
inconvenience to themselves, or others already in the
market. The rails and furniture, generally, is similar to
that of the cattle market ; so that they (the calves) stand
with heads to heads and tails to tails across the
building, with a footpath between heads, and another
along the length of the building in the middle. The
roof is lofty, being supported on iron columns 17 feet
high, circular, and covered with corrugated iron.

The two buildings for the pig market, b, are equal in
size, and uniform in every respect with those of the calf
market just noticed, with the exception that they have
pens instead of rails, which are arranged across them,
with a foot-passage between every two rows, and
another up the middle, longitudinally intersecting each
house into two equal divisions, as in the calf market.

Both the above buildings serve the double purpose of
markets and lairs, and therefore involve anew principle
in the commerce and management of fat stock in
the capital, deserving of the most matured consideration.
At present, the bullock and sheep lairs, with slaughter-
houses also, involve a new feature of management ; for,
although something of the kind exists at Smithfield, yrt

neither lairs nor slaughterhouses there formed part of
one concern with the market, as they now do at
Copenhagen-fields. Altogether, the improvements here
involved are of such a magnitude and character as not
to be easily estimated aright ; and therefore we do not
wonder, though many are apprehensive, that parties may
not be prepared to appreciate their real value until too
late, owing to the want of experience in them, and the
high value they naturally feel disposed to put upon their
own theories and practices, until such is acquired. lu
short, " dear-bought experience" ought always to be
avoided ; and this is what many are apprehensive will
not be done.

Eight large buildings have been erected for bullock-
lairs, each 395 feet long by 40 feet wide. They are open
sheds, the roofs being supported on iron columns, and
are 34 feet apart from each other. The roofs are
strongly timbered and stayed, and are covered with
felt below the slates, for tlie purpose of keeping out
heat. A brick wall, about as high as the columns, runs
down the centre of each building, dividing it into two
equal parts, each 20 feet wide. Strong rails, supported
by iron posts, as in the market, run across from wall to
wall, subdividing each length into six double sheds and
yards, or six yards, each about 66 feet long by 34 wide,
with an open shed on eich side, of the same length, and
20 feet wide. A large manger for hay is placed along
each wall, and a watering-trough between every two
yards, so that animals on each side can drink out of it ;
while gates along the centre of the yards admit their
ingress and egress, though somewhat awkwardly. The
two middle buildings have each a hay-barn, 37 feet by
15 feet, at the end next the slaughterhouses, as shown
in the plan. The four outside yards have open spaces
in front, where cattle may be watered, sorted, &c., &c. ;
or an additional shed opposite each may be built when
required.

The sheep lairs are similar in construction to the cattle,
being open sheds 34 feet apart, 40 feet wide, divided
by a wall, and subdivided by railing into yards, the only
difference being that instead of a low manger, there are
racks along the wall for hay, and three bars instead of
two in the railing. Eight of them are of equal lengths,
being about 130 feet each, and the remaining four of
different lengths. They have three hay barns, one at
the north and two at the south.

The ground plan i in the private slaughter-yard e
contains six slaughter-houses, and a in the public
slaughter-yard d. two. The only difference between
them worthy of notice is size — the latter being 40 feet
by 37, and the former only 16 feet by 17 ; so that a de-
scription of one of the public will serve for all. First,
there is a lair 20^ feet by 19, into which the cattle to be
slaughtered are placed, with a door leading to the slaugh-
ter-house. At the end next this door the necessary ap-
paratus and tackling will be found for slaughtering.
From this end to the other, lofty parallel beams extend,
on the top of which are railways and travelling cranes.
The carcase is raised by the usual crane-machinery,
and when dressed is removed to the opposite end
by the travelling cranes, to cool. Adjoining the killing

SKETCH OF THE NEW CATTLE MARKET.

p. Z~ e^<^ 5 ^ H

1 ^

■

1 !

1 \

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

473

PRINCIPAL REFERENCES.

A, Market-ground, witli banks in the centre.

B, Bullock-lairs,
c, Sheep-lairs.

D, Public slaughterhouses.

E, Private slaughterhouses.
T, Q, and n. Spare grounds.

I, Entrance to tunnel of Great Northern Railway.
p, Public-houses.

T, Taverns.

/, Fountain,

R, Bullock-rails, on a larger scale.

V, One division of sheep-pens, showing the arrangement,

s. One sheep-pen, showing gates, &c.

Smitiifield, outline of.

South and North, applicable to both markets.

department is another door, leading to the offal depart-
ment, vrhere there is a boiler, and all the neeessary ap-
paratus reqflired in such a place. The other ground
plan c in the division d is that of the dead-meat market.
It is not finished, and being rather of an experimental
than permanent character, we shall defer details until
results are known.

The two taverns (t t on the plan) ai'e large buildings,
being 110 feet long by 80 feet wide, and six storeys high.
They are built and being finished in the first style, and are
capable of making up fifty beds each. On the ground-
floor of each tavern there are six shops for the sale of
articles in connexion with the market, three on each
side of the front • entrance to the tavern.

Half-way between the two taverns there is to be a
fountain, represented on the plan by the circular figure/.
Four of the public-houses p p p p opposite the four
corners of the market are also large buildings, being 48
by 43 feet, and five storeys high, capable of making up
15 beds each. The other public-house at the south-west
entrance is only four storeys, making up 9 beds. Each
public-house has a large yard for its accommodation.

In the four corners of the market, opposite the four
first-mentioned public-houses, urinals and waterclosets
are erected. They are of an octagon form, and enclosed
within high brick walls.

The si.x: entrances on the three great roads leading
between Maiden-lane and Caledonian-road have gates,
wnich will be open to the public, allowing them the
benefit of these great thoroughfares, unless on market
days, during which cattle alone will be admitted, and
such vehicles as are destined for the banks — calf or pig
markets. The area represented on the plan by i is the
entrance to the tunnel of the Great Northern Railway ;
and at the east end of the spare grounds, g, an entrance
direct from the railway might easily be made, so as to
save cattle the necessity of crossing the Caledonian-road,
which they now do. But " Rome was not built in one
day," neither can the cattle-market of the British
capital.

Owing to the important acquisition lately got of the
three southern entrances from the North London Rail-
way, the residence and offices of the clerk or steward of
the market have not been built ; and, so far as we have
yet heard, the site is not definitely fixed upon. The
police station in Caledonian-road will accommodate the
police staff of the market.

Many important improvements are in contemplation ;
but as yet it would be premature, we conceive, to commit
them to paper.

The architectural style of all buildings and erections
for a cattle market must necessarily be of a plain and

substantial character, or what has technically been
termed the " Bovine order ;" and this is what we find
in the new metropolitan cattle market. At the same time,
wherever ornament can be judiciously involved it is not
wanting. The cast-metal posts or piers of the ring
fence of the market, for instance, are not only strong,
but advantage is taken of this strength to surmount them
in the bullock department with the figures of four
bulls' heads ; and a coronet of horns ; in the sheep de-
partment four rams' heads ; in the calf department
calves' heads, and pig department pigs' heads. The
artist, we may observe, has carefully avoided giving the
preference to individual breeds, by producing a very
successful architectural cross; so that farmers who
visit the market will not find occasion to complain that
notice has not been extended towards their own favourite
herd and flock.

The following is, we believe, the architect's original
estimate ; but we may observe in giving it, that several
improvements have since taken place, and that it is im-
possible to finish such an undertaking at the money : — ■

Market £115,521

Bullock lairs 54,000

Sheep lairs 28,000

Roads 25,000

Public-houses 15,000

Taverns 11,000

Public slaughter-houses 13,000

Private ditto 11,700

Spare grounds , 5,500

Total .....£278,721

We conclude this division of our subject with a
farewell account of Smithfield. As already stated,
the sketch we give of it is drawn to the same scale as
that of the new market ; and we may just observe
to those of our readers who have never seen the old
market ground itself, that the outline is somewhat
flattering : for the old tottering and dilapidated
buildings which surround the greater part of Smithfield
are such as almost to defy delineation. The small letters
of the diagram show the streets which intersect the
market ground : I. being Long-lane, for instance, d.
Duke-street, (/. Giltspur-street, h. Hosier-lane, k.
King-street, tv. West-street, and s. Smithfield-bars.
Duke-street and Giltspur- street lead to and from the
cattle department; Long-lane and King-street again
separate the cattle from the sheep ; and the calves and
pigs are at the end next West-street ; while the small
lanes not marked lead to lairs and slaughter-houses.
The whole area is only 6 acres and 15 poles, so that the
surprise is, how it was possible to cram some 6,000
cattle and 40,000 sheep within so small a compass.

474

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

At this season the task is performed by gas light ; but
the modus operandi, under the flickering glare of the
lamps, contending with " November fogs," is "more
easily conceived than described." But for all that, many
a good fat bullock and sheep have exchanged hands in
it— many a sovereign collected and faithfully remitted to
the provinces— and now that its requiem is about to be
sung, " The Great Globe itself" has not another field
of six acres to place in the scales with Smithfield. It
will be long before so many historical associations sur-
round the new market in Copenhagen Fields as those
which arise with the very mention of its name ; and it
is only when some twelve months have passed over the
heads of the bankers, salesmen, butchers, and drovers
of the capital, that they themselves will be able to
place a proper estimate ujion the Herculean task here
performed, or to appreciate the benefits which they have
gained by the change.

Individual Interests — how affected by Re-
MOVAL OF Market.

But although time is necessary to ascertain ex-
perimentally the real value of the great national work
which we have thus briefly, but imperfectly, described,
and how individual interests may be affected by the re-
moval of the market ; yet a prospective glance at the
latter may profitably be taken, which forms the second
division of our subject. On entering a field so wide,
we may remind our readers that our observations must
necessarily be very brief; and, therefore, in order to
preserve perspicuity, we shall divide the different
branches of the trade into three c]asses—Jirst, sellers
and buyers, or farmers, salesmen, and butchers ; second,
the Corporation and " money-takers ;" and third,
slaughter-men, butchers'-men, drovers, &c. — noticing
individual interests under their respective heads.

The commercial question at issue is simply this, Will
the lairs and slaughter-houses of the neio market pay ?
Will it be more advantageous for salesmen and butchers
to use them in preference to those now in use ? On the
part of the salesman, for instance, the question will
stand thus — Can I do my employers (those farmers and
graziers who consign their cattle, sheep, or pigs to me)
more justice in the market lairs than those which 1 now
use ? And on the part of the butcher. Shall I rent so
many lairs yearly, and turn my purchases into them the
moment I close a bargain with the salesman, and there
let them remain until required for slaughtering, either
in the market slaughter-house or in my own, as experi-
ence may show to be the best ? or shall I make my pur-
chases, if possible, before the market gates are closed in
the morning (supposing that driving cattle in the streets
during the business hours of the day will be prohibited
by the bye-laws of the Corporation), sending the stock
home immediately, and allowing those made after this
hour to remain at the market rails or in the pens until
the gates are opened in the evening— farther supposing
such bye-laws will permit of this latter practice of stock
remaining at the rails and in the pens — or otherwise
delay my purchases or delivery of stock after the gates

are closed in the morning until they are opened in the
evening ?

Such is the manner in which this important question
comes home to the salesman, butcher, and farmer ;
and it will readily be perceived, from what follows,
that there is but one mutual interest involved, and
that only permits of one answer being given to the
question, whatever may be the bye-laws and practice
of the market. It is no doubt possible to frame bye-
laws in accordance with the statute (14 & 15 Victoria,
cap. 61), such as would almost enforce the observance
of the one mutual interest involved ; but in S. free coun-
try like this, where individual interests are so plainly
expressed, it is always prudent to consult them practi-
ticaliy, as it were, first before any atlempt is made to
enforce measures for the public interest in connection
with any of the arts which may not have the sanction of
experience, although absolutely right, and even mani-
festly such as will eventually establish themselves. In
other words, practical men, such as farmers and butchei's,
have a right to be practically dealt with ; and, as neither
have any experience of the lairage of the New Metro-
politan Cattle Market, it consequently follows that an
opportunity ought to be afforded both, so far as the
public interest will permit, of judging for themselves as
to how they shall steer, and such an opportunity each
will realize ; for we believe the Corporation are to fur-
nish the market bye-laws, &c., &c., in terms of the 3rd,
4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, and lOfch sections of the
statute, in a manner which neither the Government nor
trade can object to.

The public or mutual interest of parties involves the
practice which will return the greatest weight and best
quality of butcher-meat, creating at the same time the
least obstruction to the traffic in the streets; and that
practice is obviously to use the lairage and slaughter-
houses of the new market, because it secures each of
those important results. In the first place, for instance,
it secures the greatest weight, because there is less waste
upon the animal organism during mai-keting ; in the
second place, it secures the best quality, because the meat
is subjected to less excitement or nervous action prior to
slaughtering, and subsequently cooled and set in a purer
atmosphere than is experienced under the present prac-
tice, generally speaking} and in the third and last place,
from the facilities which we have seen that the different
railways afford for bringing stock directly into the mai"-
ket grounds, all obstruction to the growing traffic of the
streets is therefore removed.

But in order to show the influence which public in-
terests exercise over those of individuals gradually
removing them, until the two (the former and latter)
reciprocate together, it will be necessary to enter more
into the details of the practice of the new market. The
extraordinary increase of the metropolis of late has ren-
dered it impossible for Smithfield any longer to dis-
charge the functions of its cattle market, so to speak.
Consequently, the market is about to be removed ; or,
for the sake of argument, we may say that Smithfield
has been finally closed by public proclamation in the
London Gazette according to the tenth st'c'lon of tiso

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

475

statute, and that the market has been removed to the
new buildings in Copeuhagen Fields, where there is
ample space within for improved management, and
still greater opportunities without of starting new
commercial machinery adjoining it, which could not
be done in Smithfield. What influence will such have
on my interest ? is a question which comes home to
every farmer, salesman, and butcher. Choleraic influ-
ences and sanitary improvements, again, are creating a
brick-and-mortar revolution, as it were, throughout the
length and breadth of the capital : churches, once held
so sacred, with their whole congregations, submitting to
change as well as cattle markets and their busy inhabi-
tants. Whole streets are disappearing at the centre,
while new ones are rising still faster in every suburban
district, as adjoining the new cattle market, already sur-
rounded with a class of buildings so totally different in
character as to indicate in an unmistakable manner the
irresistible progress of things. How will such changes
affect me ? Am I beyond the influence of such a revo-
lution ?

But let us examine the facts of the case a little more
closely, still reviewing the interests of parties separately,
aud reversing the order in which they appear : taking
the butcher first, the salesman second, and the farmer
and grazier last, as this will exhibit the facts in question
in the clearest light, showing to them how they do in
reality stand with the public and the march of progres-
sion.

1st. The butcher trade of the metropolis must, of
necessity, join in the march of improvement ; for to
stand still in these steam-going times is absolutely im-
possible. In point of fact, it is now progressing at
a rapid pace ; and the removal of the cattle market
cannot fail to increase its speed. From the perishable
character of meat, for instance, and the attention
now being paid by their customers to quality — no less
in a sanitary than dietetic sense — butchers are necessi-
tated to watch with a degree of anxiety and care, com-
mensurate with the circumstances in which they are
placed, every movement calculated to aftect the same.
Now the removal of the market will affect both the
quantity and quality of the meat. We are not here to
be understood to say that our principal butchers will
not be able to maintain their ground, even supposing
that they continue their present practice ; but we do
mean to affirm that they will have more difficulty in
doing so than they have hitherto experienced, and it is
here where they will have to watch the progress of
tilings.

In evidence of this, we may observe that consumers
nre now becoming so well acquainted with the chemistry
of animal food as to be able to detect bad meat by other
means than smell or colour, while they are also becoming
familiar with the causes which produce it. Huntsmen have
been familiar, for example, from time immemorial, with
the fact that the blood of oxen, sheep, pigs, or other ani-
mals, hunted to death will not coagulate, that such animals
die badly, and that their meat will not keep. Now con-
sumers are becoming familiar with those things also, while
they further know that over-driving fat stock produces a

similar eff"ect, and that this does not arise merely from the
over-exertion of the muscles, but principally from the
excitement of the nervous system, and the effect which
such produces upon both solids and liquids. In other
words, the action of the nerves has a greater efi'ect in re-
ducing both the quantity and quality of meat than the
mere muscular exercise of walking or running ; and
consequently, that the nervous excitement experienced
by animals in being driven through the crowded streets
of the capital, deteriorates both the quantity and quality
of meat below that slaughtered in the slaughter-houses
of the new market, the animals having been properly
cared for in the lairs. They also know that this driving
of the animals deranges or rather keeps up the derange-
ment of the stomach and bowels acquired in being for-
warded to market, so that the fluids (amounting to 75
per cent, of the meat) are also affected ; while this is not
the worst view of the picture, for the animal in such a
state derives almost no benefit from the small quantity of
food which it eats, so that respiration has to be upheld
by the carbon of the fat, leaving the oxygen and hydrogen
(water) often imperfectly removed under such circum-
stances. Hence the dropsical and watery appearance of
such meat, to say nothing of its flavour, and liability to
putrefaction, diffusing around it the morbid elements of
fever. Again, animals subject to such treatment are
more liable to have their meat deteriorated by the mias-
matic, fungal, and other influences of the atmosphere,
than under what will be experienced in the new market ;
and it were difficult to convey a just conception, either
of the loss here sustained, or the lively apprehension of
the public mind at present, on calamities of this kind,
and determination to put an end, so far as possible, to
all such sources of pestilence.

But consumers are not the only persons now becoming
practically familiar with these things, for many butchers
are also familiar with them, especially the rising genera-
tion, or those starting in business — men who will un-
questionably adopt the machinery of the new market, in
preference to that of the old ; for although they are fami-
liar with the fact that a current of cold air between two
doors or in the street loill blow the stench from meat,
they also know that modern science has got a long way
beyond such a practice.

As yet it would no doubt be premature to say what
the actual machinery of the new market may be, when
science is progressing so fast. At the same time, one
thing is plain — that butchers commencing business will
neither have to erect slaughterhouses nor lairs for stock,
as both are provided at the market, and in character far
superior to anything now to be found in the metropolis,
we may safely say which they themselves would have
erected ; hence less capital is required, while greater
profits will be realized.

But although we cannot describe what is not in exist-
ence, yet recent changes have already given rise to ma-
chinery, which may of itself excercise a very important
influence upon the trade. Look at the facilities, for
instance which railways, omnibuses, and steamboats are
affording for residing in the suburbs, and yet
having the office or shop towards the centre.

47G

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

Witness again the miles of streets composed
entirely of family residences, where butchers' carts may
be seen driving about among them from the opposite
side of the metropolis. When once a butcher, or his
boy, is seated in his cart, he soon drives across some
half-dozen miles of suburban streets, taking orders
or delivering them. This light spriug-cart and van
trade is not only thus creating a revolution in the
butcher trade, as regards the distribution of meat, but
also in every other trade of the capital. Now, what is
to hinder butchers, like other tradesmen, residing in the
neighbourhood of the market, or railways leading to it,
where they may have a season-ticket, so that they could
attend to slaughtering, &c., evening and morning, taking
a fresh supply of meat every day with them to their
shops ? Would not private families soon appreciate the
soundness of the practice which such an hypothesis in-
volves, and therefore support it ? for the family butcher
then would be under no obligations to take to his shop
anything which did not suit. Even if an ox or sheep
did not die well, as is frequently the case, the whole
carcase may be disposed of at its legitimate value in the
dead-meat market fresh, instead of being either wholly
or in part smuggled off, returning to the dead-meat
market in a putrid state that which has not thus been
disposed of, if not sending it to the knacker's caldron.

An example from another trade will probably better
illustrate our proposition than any other line of argu-
ment, viz, : A gentleman the other day entered abutter
merchant's shop, for the purpose of arranging for a
supply of fresh-churned butter. There was a gaudy
display in the window ; but it was " covered with capric
and caproic acid," and therefore . did not suit. " Have
you got none fresh in, sir ?" was the laconic and decisive
interrogatory put ; and the answer returned in a tone of
perturbation, " I can send you some to-morrow morn-
ing." "Thank you," was the final reply, followed by
the chastising rebuke, " I know where good butter only
is kept," and away he drove, leaving the merchant and
some of his best customers then in the shop to think for
themselves as to the progress of the times.

Now, when consumers are becoming thus practically
familiar with the butyric, capric, and caproic acids of
butter, and the causes which produce them, can we
suppose that they are one whit less familiar with the
acids of butcher-meat, and the causes which produce
them, and that they will not adopt equally effectual
means for avoiding the latter as they do the former ?

The position of salesmen will be similar to that of
butchers ; for if they set too little value upon the lairage
and other accommodations of the new market, young
salesmen starting business may have an advantage over
them greater than they may calculate upon. In other
words, salesmen who have lairage of their own will not,
under the working of the new market, have that ad-
vantage over those who have not, as they now possess
under the operation of Smithfield, if they do not labour
under a serious disadvantage.

At present, generally speaking, there is by far too
low an estimate put upon the daily waste of live stock
and deterioration of the quality of butcher-meat in

driving to and from lairs by both salesmen and butchers ;
but if lairs and slaughter-houses are properly managed, a
practical solution of the problem at issue may then be
obtained, no less to the satisfaction of both than the
farmer. If an ox loses upwards of 56 lbs. of meat per
day, when labouring under fever, what does he lose
under the street-driving fever of the metropolis ? is a
question, we say, which may find a practical solution.

The interest of the farmer or grazier is identically that
of the public, and his position in reference to the
question at issue briefly this — whether will the lairs of
the new market, or those of the salesman or other
private party, return me the highest price for my fat
stock, after deducting expenses ? Now, with him,
experiment will be left to answer a question so impor-
tant as this. Tne moment, for example, that he sees
the advantages of the lairs of the new market, as formerly
described, he will give them a trial. If he already has
a salesman who has private lairs of his own, he will
not be so new-fangled in his notions as to withdraw
his consignations from him, but he will unquestion-
ably divide them for a time, sending so many head
to some of the most successful salesmen, who only
use the lairs of the new market, regulating his future
consignations according to results. Far be it from us
to interfere so far with the trade as to say that the new
lairs will beat the old in the hands of different salesmen ;
but we should like to hear salesmen themselves answer
the question — Why they should not ? Practice and Duty
are tv/o different questions. To the latter, farmers can
be at no loss for an answer ; and, as it has already been
said, they will leave experiment to answer the former.

The removal of the metropolitan cattle market is one
of those changes which cannot fail to arouse the most
scrutinizing inquiry of farmers, especially the lairage
and slaughtering departments of it; because, upon their
proper management the value of their stock greatly de-
pends, both as to quantity and quality. It would be
unreasonable to expect the contrary of them : for with
chemical and mechanical science they are now becoming
familiar, and will experience no difficulty in arriving at
tangible conclusions as to what is and should be done.
In this respect they are now quite a different class of
men to what they were a few years back. In short,
the facts of the case at issue with the farmer are the
quantities and qualities of butcher-meat which he
manufactures, and the quantities and qualities which
he receives payment for in the London market. If, for
example, he drafts out six fat bullocks of uniform
weight and quality, registering the live weights of each,
slaughters two at home, weighs the carcases, and con-
signs them to the dead meat-market ; sends other two
alive to the lairs of the new market, and the remaining
two to those of the old ; he will then expect the returns
of the thi'ee salesmen to tally with each other — such is
the line of procedure which he may be expected to adopt.
The second part of our proposition involves the
interest of the Corporation and bankers — a division
more easily disposed of than that of the other branches
of the trade; for the question. Will the fat stock of
liquid-manure times require to be sold in their lairs, as
is now proposed selling calves and pigs ? is one which
is easily solved, as it only admits of an affirmative
answer. Farmers have long been familiar with the fact
that Cattle-dealers who accustom themselves to buy
cattle only out-of-doors, as in yards, fields, or open
markets, do not like to buy them otherwise, as in stalls
and feeding-boxes. Hence the absurd practice, and loss
experienced in turning out house-led stock in the hopes

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

477

of effecting a sale ; but the loss sustained on such occa-
sions, amounting in many cases to more than a week's
keep, is compelling them to teach such dealers to buy
withia-doors, and the same lesson may yet be success-
fully taught the buyers of fat stock in the British
capital ; for, unquestionably, if the fat ox or sheep is
placed in a comfortable lair, the practice of removing it,
to stand for several hours on a granite pavement,
wedged up to a rail, or into a pen, with its back, and
hence the best parts of its meat, exposed to the influence
of frost in winter, and a scorching sun in summer,
merely to suit the experience of buyers and sellers ac-
customed to the antiquated and anomalous routine of
Smithfield, is one subject to revisal, especially where
the animal is returned to the same lair for slaughtering,
either in the public or private slaughter-houses. For
example, Should the fat stock of Baker-street Christmas
Show be sold in the Bazaar, or turned out to undergo
"martyrdom at the stake, in Smithfield" ? Such is
the practical question at issue, and its solution, we re-
peat, " Sold to best advantage in the Bazaar."

But we are not yet altogether under the influence of
the house- fed stock of the Smithfield Club ; for the vast
majority of fat-stock sold ia the capital are yet fed in
open yards and grass fields, so that for them the lairage
of the new cattle market is not liable to the same ob-
jection.

But the numbei's and weight of house-fed stock, both
oxen and sheep, are increasing very fast, retrospectively
viewed, while prospectively they will obviously greatly
exceed what they do now, and therefore the necessary
provision should be made for them in all our fat-stock
markets. At present, justice in more respects than one is
not being done to this class, in common with the more
hardy and out-door fed animals, accustomed to an in-
jurious amount of exercise and inclemency of weather ;
for they are not only less able to bear the hardships of
the present rude mode of marketing, but the quality of
their meat suffers more fi-om nervous excitement, while
this reduction of quality is erroneously attributed to the
mode of feeding ; thus throwing a serious barrier in
the way of farmers making progress in feeding and pro-
duciog an increase of the quantity and quality of
butcher-meat for the public. The loss thus sustained,
both public and private, is far greater than is generally,
we fear, imagined. Now the obvious provision which
such a state of things requires is fat-stock cattle bazaars
analogous to what has been provided for horses of the
first-class. At one time first-rate horses were sold in
Smithfield ; but progress in the management of horses
has superseded the antiquated practice of SmithBeld,
and therefore, unless the corporation keeps pace with the
progress of the times, by making provision for the first
quality of fat-stock, private enterprise may do so, and
hence supersede the practice of the new market. For
example : —

The present practice of disposing of this quality of fat
slock may be superseded either by slaughtering at home
and consigning to the dead-meat market ; by private
salesmen erecting bazaars and slaughter-houses, and sup-
plying the dead-meat market ; by retail commission
agents, who supply small butchers with their vans ; by
butchers themselves buying direct from the bazaar ; or
by a combination of these. Now, every one acquainted
with the butcher trade of the capital and the country
must be aware that each of these plans is, under certain
modifications, in successful operation already, and fast
superseding old practices ; so that were improved
machinery brought to their assistance, the result is
obvious. The general testimony of the Blue-books on
Smithfield prognosticates that the removal of the market
will produce a revolution, which will be no less felt by
the Corporation than the trade itself ; and it will readily

be perceived that the progress of things is as irre-
sistible in the one case as the other.

Fortunately the malady at issue suggests for itself the
specific cure ; for as the Market Commissioners have
slaughter-houses already, they have only to erect a small
bazaar capable of being increased in size with the demand
for feeding boxes, and to make the necessary bye-laws
for governing this branch of the trade, when farmers
and the salesmen who superintend the live sales, man-
agement and slaughtering for the dead-meat market, or
any new branch of butcher -meat commerce which may
arise, would naturally be disposed to prefer such to
erecting buildings of their own, especially in starting a
comparatively new line of business with so perishable
an article as live or dead butcher-meat. No doubt, after
this branch was in successful operation, the capital of the
Corporation would have no advantage over other capitals,
so that it could make no monopolising changes. So
much the better. But, nevertheless, it will doubtless be
found in this, as in other trades, that small capitals
realize longer interest in trade than in buildings. In
other words, if the Corporation invests capital judi-
ciously, not only will fair interest be received for it,
but advantages of renting feeding-boxes and slaughter-
houses enjoyed, greater than the equivalent of market
dues from which private bazaars would be exempt.

It may, no doubt, be said, by way of objection, that
although feeding-boxes were erected in which the fat
ox could be tied up during sale, with an open entrance
for buyer and seller, and in which he could be loosed,
and the gate closed the moment he is sold, yet the
farmer could not afford to pay the rent which such a box
would cost, while neither salesman nor butcher would
be found to use it. But objections of this kind have
only prejudice for their foundation, and are, therefore,
easily disposed of ; for if feeding-boxes pay the farmer
at home, they will obviously pay him better in the
capital, because his ox, when he arrives there, is fatigued,
and too frequently less or more bruised ; and therefore
has more need of the benefits of a loose, roomy, and
well- ventilated box, in which to recover himself. Those
who have had similar experience with ourselves in
travelling prize cattle to the summer meetings of the
Royal Agricultural Society, or fat stock to Baker-street,
must have appreciated the benefits of a loose-box, and
how much better and sooner cattle recover themselves
in them, when they return home, than under any other
system. These are facts with which every veterinary
surgeon is familiar, and which merit the most serious
consideration of the Corporation and trade at present.
Moreover, the expense of removal from lairs to market,
tying up to rails, loosing and returning to lairs again
when sold, would, when we bear in mind the fact that
the one is in the centre of an eight-acre field, and the
other in the centre of a fifteen-acre field, do far more
than cover the extra expense of a feeding-box. And
with regard to the trade, we shall grant for the sake of
argument that its objection is good, although the con-
trary is the fact, because it has nothing to do with the
question at issue ; for we are not finding fault with the
conduct of parties, much less dictating what course they
should pursue ; but only pointing out facts which exist,
and which may be embodied into a practice affecting
their interests ; for the progress of things will neither be
guided much by our dictation nor their practice. At
the same time, it would be unreasonable to suppose that
farmers who use feeding-boxes at home would not prefer
them in the capital ; and that if our best fat stock
were once placed in feeding-boxes, that salesmen
and butchers would not be found in the British
capital to sell and buy there. But, however absurd
it may appear to suppose that a London salesman and
butcher would remove a fat ox from a comfortable feed-

478

THE FAEMEE'S MAGA21NM.

ing-bos, tie it up to a rait some 200 yards distant ia the
adjoining open field, and tliere strike a bargain (!),
there is nothing to prevent them doing so, until they
discover a more profitable course. Eren this itself
would be a great improvement of the present manage-
ment of the class of stock under notice. They cannot
be in two places at one and the same time ; and coase-
quentlv neither can the stock they are buying and sel-
ling. Changes so great as those in contemplation are
obviously a work of time ; and what both the trade and
corporation have to look after is, that they do not lose
the commerce of the best description of fat stock as they
have lost that of horses. This is what we have endea-
voured to bring under their notice, and hope our obser-
vations will not be misconstrued.

Since writing the above, the Mark Lane Express of
the 13th, containing the discussion of the London
Farmers' Club " On Farm Buildings," has just been
delivered to us, in which covered homesteads have
unanimously been approved of: thus confirming, as it
were, the observations we have made ; for in principle
covered homesteads are but the prototypes of covered
cattle markets and lairs ; so that this principle, when
generally reduced to practice in the one case, must of
necessity be so also in the other ; for farmers, as a body,
will not submit to the loss which individuals of them are
now obliged to sustain on their house-fed stock.

The bankers' interest — the next we have to notice-
is closely connected with that of the Corporation :
hence the reason why the two have fought so closely
together throughout the long-protracted parliamentary
proceedings against Smithfield : and the prosperity of
the one is no less dependent upon the proper manage-
ment of the lairage and slaughtering departments of the
new market than the other. Professionally, their labours
are intermediate between those of salesmen and the
great bankers of the capital, properly so called, and
appear to have had their origin in times of less educa-
tion than the present, when those who could sell a fat
ox or sheep to the best advantage could not so wield the
pen. In other words, they perform the more official
labours of the salesmen, and those who originally were
their bankers. Technically, they are denominated
"money-takers;" and this is, strictly speaking, their
profession. That it has formed a useful branch in the sub-
division of labour, is manifest ; but, at the same time,
it is one which in modern times is daily becoming more
liable to be supetseded, owing to the growth of intelli-
gence, the greater facilities for collecting and remitting
money, and the possibility of a more judicious abridg-
ment oi labour being adopted, as will readily be seen from
what follows.

From being thus connected with salesmen and bankers,
the interest of money-takers becomes identical with
theirs ; so that whenever it falls short of this, it is liable
to be superseded. Now, it is the interest of the sales-
man that the price paid by the butcher shall be faith-
fully collected and remitted to the farmer ; but,
unfortunately, this is not being done, for a very large
portion of the fat stock sent to Smithfield is bought
by middlemen at a sweeping profit, taken between
the butcher's price and the farmer's remittance ;
hence the loud complaints which have lately arisen among
both butchers and farmers, especially the former, that
justice was not being done them ; consequently, if a
bazaar salesman were to start, and to divide this inter-
mediate profit between farmers and butchers, he would,
according to the natural course of things, receive their
support. No doubt the possibility of the private bazaar
salesman doing so may be queried ; but those who only
do business one day in seven would do well to take a
second thought of the business habits of the times in
which they live, and the general and daily struggle every-

where experienced for bread ; tor the removal of t!i^
market lairs and slaughter-houses from the dark and
dirty lanes of Smithfield will doubtless throw more day-
light, as it were, upon the subject.

The rights of the labouring man are always deserving
of pre-eminent consideration in every branch of in-
dustry ; and from this rule the working classes of
Smithfield are, doubtless, not an exception. Having
already glanced at the interests of the public, Corpora-
tion, bankers, salesmen, butchers, and farmers, let us
now briefly notice those of slaughtermen, butchers'
men, drovers, policemen, publicans, &c., &c. — '
interests which embrace the management of live stock,
filling and emptying of the market, including the re-
moval of butchers' stock to their own shops, and hence
the whole work of slaughtering, whether within the
market-grounds, slaughter-houses of regular slaughter-
men, or those of butchers themselves. When the
slaughtering takes place in the public slaughter-houses,
the labours of the drover will be considerably abridged,
and also those of butchers' men, when the slaughtering
is perforrced by regular slaughtermen. The most profit-
able mode of examining the interest of each subdivision
separately will, therefore, be to place the work of
slaughtering first, and the others following in the order
just given.

One general observation, however, will be ap-
plicable to all, and therefore may be made here,
which is this : that labour, as to quality, in the
new market, will be very much elevated above what
it is in the old. This is one of those self-evident
propositions which require no proof, its character in
Smithfield being far beyond any parallel ; for all the
slaughter-houses which we have examined — and that in-
cludes several weeks' close perseverance at the work —
are dirty and badly-ventilated hovels, scarcely better,
many of them, in the West-end than in AVhitechapel
itself ; hovels totally unfit for working in, while in too
many cases the work itself is performed without regard
to that degree of personal cleanliness which the extreme
delicate nature of butcher-meat obviously requires.
The common maxim appears to be, to get cool air to
flow into them, but unfortunately without due respect
being paid to its quality ; for in nine cases out of ten it
was so loaded with poisonous gases as to inoculate the
meat, setting it at once into a state of decomposition,
from which no subsequent treatment could relieve it.
Now, it is more easy to imagine than describe the posi-
tion in which men are placed when slaughtering in such
an atmosphere, and under such circumstances ; and this
conclusion is as applicable to butchers' men who kill as
to regular slaughtermen. Again, the poor drover is so
bedaubed with dirt every market-day, as not only to be
a discredit to Smithfield (if aught could be so), but the
British capital. In short, hrute force and devilry are
almost the only terms qualified to convey a just idea of
things as regards labour in connection with Smithfield.

The interest of the regular slaughterman, like that of
all other artists, is, obviously, to advance his art to a
degree of perfection such as to secure for him the
greatest amount of employment ; and the means which
will be placed at his command in the new market are
such as to enable him to leave the antiquated systems
of Smithfield behind, if he only makes a proper use of
them, while a greater prospect will be held out to in-
ventors to bring more improved machinery than yet
exists to his assistance. A great many butchers may,
no doubt, be unwilling to believe the advantages which
slaughtermen will enjoy by a distinct subdivision of
labour, with the means of carrying it out to advantage,
and act accordingly ; but obstacles of this kind will only
be experienced for a short time, and ultimately they will
go where all prejudice and scepticism of the kind has

.THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

4?g

hitlit-rto gone, so tliafc intelligence and perseverance
have here a promising field before theca.

The labours of the young butcher, or butcher's mau,
are of a very mixed character at present ; for, in the
first place, he has frequently to attend the market, and
assist in collecting and starting purchases, and some-
times in driving them home ; in the second place, he has
to attend to the feeding of stock, and the daily drafting
out and taking to the slau<^hter-house such as are to be
killed ; then follows the slaughtering, with the rude and
often limited mechanical means at his command ; next,
the fetching the carcases to the shop, frequently at some
considerable distance; and, lastly, the disposal of them
to the public. Of these five subdivisions of labour,
the latter — the commerce of butcher-meat — is obviously
the most important. Now, it takes no great stretch of
vision to perceive that the high standard of dignity,
intelligence, and gentlemanly appearance in manner and
dress which the commercial division requires, is totally
irreconcilable with that of the drover, cowherd or
cattleman, and slaughterman ; and that to this anomalous
state of labour is to be attributed much of that rudeness
and devilry so conspicuous among young butchers.
Take them as a whole, and where will you find such
another race of semi-barbarians ? Why should they
remain such a proverbial exception from that civilization
and order for which the other branches of commerce in
the capital are so justly famed ? Is not butcher-meat
the most delicate of all articles bought and sold in the
metropolis, and therefore requiring treatment accord-
ingly ? _

In this department of the industrial fabric there is
much room for progress, and we sincerely trust that the
opening of the new market will prove the advent of a
more scientific state of things. The age of " Jack-of-
all-trades" is gone by ; and the butcher who cannot per-
ceive a more perfect and profitable subdivision of labour
than that now generally followed in the metropolis, is
unworthy of the enlightened one in which he lives. So
long as he was tied to the routine of Smithfield, with all
its tragical associations, he may doubtless find more
than one apology to plead ; but the new market once
opened, and the minds of intelligent young butchers will
doubtless aspire to a more elevated state of things. A
daily consumption, for instance, requires a daily supply,
daily supply daily slaughtering, and daily slaughtering
daily selling ; hence we legitimately arrive at a fat-stock
bazaar, already noticed. Now, with a bazaar, we should
have regular cattle-men, whose duty would be not only
to feed so many beasts each, but receive them from rail-
ways and hand them over to slaughtermen. Here
then it will be observed that we have two of the above
five subdivisions of labour economically disposed of,
while Donnybrook drovers, including dogs, goads,
lassos, " et hoc genus omne" are altogether dispensed
with, which accounts for a third ; two only remain — the
conveying of carcases from the slaughter-house of the
market to the shop, and the disposal of them afterwards ;
both of which, strictly speaking, belong to commerce,
and with the aid of machinery to load and unload, the
young butcher, with his light cart, could keep his broad
cloth as clean as do young grocers, &c. &c., in other
branches of trade, presenting the same degree of gentle-
manly demeanour in his converse with the public.

One word more on this head, and that is " /Ae long
boots of Smithfield," the index of the market. If the
butchers' boots are very dirty, for instance, and himself
literally covered with the droppings of the cattle, it is
the sign of a good sale, and if vice versa a bad one (?) ;
but young butchers in the new market may think of
cleaner boots than either, for we have had Dukes and
even Duchesses, &c. &c., examining fat stock in their
feeding boxes, and the same will be seen in Baker-street

during the ensuing show, and we Ao mi see why they
should aspire to dirtier shoes and broad cloth than are
worn on like occasions. Such, we say, are the first ideas
of progress. That young butchers, after having served
their apprenticeships, are better qualified to reduce them
to practice than we, is plain ; and therefore we gladly
place them at their disposal.

Of all the many ranks and gradations into which
mankind are unhappily divided, that of the Smithfield
drover is without a parallel ; for the dirtiest wretch in
the world is not so dirty as he, or so unworthy of the
commerce of the British capital. Few have regular em-
ployment, the vast majority being only engaged during
the market days ; and their appearance and demeanour
every Monday furnish a humbling epitome no less of
fallen humanity than of the depths of misery and low
standard of civilisation to which many are sunk in this
over-grown metropolis, and the dirty employments
which choice or necessity consequently compels them
to follow, in order to obtain a livelihood. That the re-
moval of the market will instantly do away with much
of this misery will appear plain from what follows, and
we hope at no distant date drovers will be elevated to
the regular status of independent cattle-men, perform-
ing the duties already described. This is, no doubt, a
work of time, but Science and Practice are both pro-
gressing together ; so that the result is obvious. Of the
advantages of regular employment to the labouring man,
it would be superfluous to say a word ; so that any sys-
tem devoid of this must inevitably be found wanting.

Drovers are employed, as many of our readers doubt-
less are aware, by salesmen and butchers. Among
themselves, they are divided into drovers and master-
drovers. The latter have so much for taking every bul-
lock or score of sheep to market from salesmen, out of
which they pay the former according to agreement. In
removing stock from the market, the butcher is charged
according to distance. The removal of the market will
have a tendency to increase the expenses of the butcher
in removing live stock, and diminish those of the sales-
man— more especially after stock is delivered into the
market grounds from the Great Northern and North
London Railways. Both these alterations will operate
conjointly in favour of the new market, and the ultimate
elevation of drovers to regular cattlemen and shepherds:

Each salesman, again, has a man or drover, whose
duty is to receive consignations at the different railways
or the river, take them to lairs and the market, super-
intend them there, and hand them over to purchasers.
When a butcher, for instance, purchases a lot of bul-
locks, he puts his mark on each animal; and, while
doing so, the salesman's drover cuts the hair from their
tails, which is his perquisite, and which proves a sure
index to the trade that such a lot is sold. When the
butcher, again, wishes for delivery, the drover goes to
his employer's banker, to see if the beasts are paid for ;
and if so, then unties them, and hands them over to the
butcher's drover or man, as the case may be.
Now in all these duties the labours of this
class, and those whom they employ to assist
them, will be very much ameliorated by the change
about to take place ; for in the new market every sales-
man, of any extent, will have a department exclusively
for his own stock, into which no other beasts will be
allowed to enter, thus securing to man and beast quietude
from the disturbances of taking in and out stock ;
whereas in Smithfield the space behind bullocks not only
serves for a road, but standings for loose ring droves :
hence the dirty turmoil experienced during the whole
time of the market.

The filling of the market may be done in half the
time, and at less than one- tenth of the injury and fatigue
experienced in Smithfield, owing to the greater accom->

48U

THK i^AilMEE'S MAGAZK-,']

modation of roads and entrances to the market — a pro-
vision which will admit of rules and regulations being
framed for the entry of stock, such as to render con-
fusion impossible if attended to ; and what we have just
said of filling the market is applicable to the removal of
stock, so that in both cases drovers will gain further
benefits.

As we have already said, the mode of entering, tying
up, and removing bullocks, is the same as in Smithfield,
as also the penning and management of sheep. The latter
practice has already been noticed in describing the
mode of filling the pens ; and to those of our readers
who have not attended Smithfield we may briefly follow
the lairage and marketing of one lot of bullocks con-
signed to a salesman, by way of illustration.

Drovers are always in readiness waiting the arrival
of trains with stock ; and when a consignment arrives
before the market-day, as on Saturday or Sunday, to
one salesman, his drover either takes home the stock to
his own lair, if he has one, or else to the lairs of the
market if he has not, where they are immediately fed
and their wants attended to, so far as circumstances will
admit. Early on Monday morning they will enter the
market at the gate nearest the salesman's rails, and then
be driven along one of the three main roads running
from south to north, a drover going before them, while
the other drovers attending to the different areas will
keep them from entering among their cattle. When
opposite their own standings, the drover in front will
turn them inwards to them. The tying-up now com-
mences— a work peculiar to the capital. The animals
are driven close up to the rails by the drovers behind,
while a drover in the passage in front throws the run-
ning noose of a lasso (provincially but falsely termed
a " bullocA-tye") over a bullock's head, making
the other end fast to the rail. In this manner
all the heads he can catch are secured by pulling them
home to the rail, when he next goads any bullock
standing in a reversed position forward, and the drovers
behind goad its head round, forcing it up to the rail,
where it is soon made fast. In this way the whole
space between two " kicking-bars" is filled as close
as bullocks can be wedged up, in which position they
stand until untied by the drover attending to their
heads in front, for delivery to the butcher as already
noticed. If the butcher slaughters at home, his pur-
chases will be collected into one drove as it passes along
one or other of the roads running between them to the
entrance nearest his own route home, those which cannot
be so collected falling into the drove as it crosses the
north, south, or middle transverse road at the gate, or
as near to it as drovers can. In removing stock one
drover frequently takes the purchases of several butchers,
delivering each as he passes along. In removing stock
from Smithfield they have their routes, which have
been used by them and their predecessors from time
immemorial. The removal of the market will
create some derangement here, but new routes will
soon be discovered more favourable than the old.
When the bullocks are to be slaughtered in the slaughter-
houses of the market, they will be returned to the mar-
ket lairs as soon after they are bought as butchers can do
so, where they will remain until taken to the slaughter-
house lairs.

The market policemen — the next party we have to
notice — have much need of a cleaner " beat" and purer
atmosphere than they now have, and both will be real-
ized in the new market ; and ditto may be said of the
steward or clerk of the market. New bye-laws and re-
gulations will be put into their hands, and none are
better qualified to carry them out. The new lairs and
slaughter-houses may increase the labours of the latter,
if not both ; but the steward ought to have a bailiff,

well acquainted with the management of fat stock in our
provinces, to superintend the lairs ; for much of their
success will depend upon the proper management of
stock. The splendid taverns and public-houses, again,
will greatly tend to elevate this department of the new
market, adding much to the comfort of the whole.

Such is a very cursory glance at the new cattle
market of the capital, and of the interests involved.
Recapitulation is unnecessary to show that the former
is a national work of the first rank, while the names of
the city architect and Mr. Laurie, the clerk of the works,
are the best guaranteewhich could be given that it is being
completed in a manner no less creditable to themselves
than those they represent.

With regard to interests, the case of the farmer, it will
be seen, is a plain one, for if he manufactures an additional
lOOibs.of butcher-meat it is no more than reasonable, and
even charitable, on his part to expect that salesmen and
butchers will not lose sight of them in these times of
economy and retrenchment ; and with his interest that
of the public is parallel. On the other hand, it cannot
be denied that the changes about to take place are cal-
culated to place salesmen and butchers in circumstances
of a more critical character, at the same time there can
be no doubt whatever as to the issue being ultimately in
their favour ; for the case of each resolves itself into a
little honourable competition between stand-still and
go-a-head rivals ; and we do not hesitate to con-
clude that both will do their best to render an honest
account of the beef, mutton, and pork, to the farmer
and the public, and so avoid " dear-bought experience."

It will also be seen how closely allied are the interests
of the Corporation and money-takers ; and the necessity
which both will experience, of keeping pace with agricul-
tural progression in the management of fat-stock in the
new cattle-market, is equally plain. The interests of
both coincide with those of the grower and consumer ;
and as the interests of the latter are one, there is conse-
quently but one interest involved ; so that if parties pull
together, theremoval to a better market-site may enable
them to retrieve much that has been lost in Smithfield.
Salesmen and money-takers may be able, for instance,
to exclude from the new market the nefarious trade of
intermediate jobbing, faithfully transmitting to the
farmer the butcher's price ; while the latter may present
to the public the farmer's weight of butcher-meat unde-
teriorated in quality. With means so vastly great, be-
yond those of Smithfield, it would be unreasonable to
suppose that results will not correspond ; and there-
fore we hope the apprehensions of " dear-bought experi-
ence" being realized, will meet with a gratifying disap-
pointment. A change so great, however, must neces-
sarily require the greatest circumspection, in order to
avoid untoward casualties ; and we have accordingly en-
deavoured to take a cursory though imperfect glance of
some of these, and how they may best be disposed of.

And, lastly, it will be seen from the hasty glance
which we have taken of the interests of slaughter-men,
young butchers or butchers' men, drovers, &c., &c., that
the removal of the market will elevate them individually
and conjunctly, and that the progress at issue is that of
a more perfect subdivision of labour. In the economy
of labour, the manufacture and commerce of butcher-
meat are no longer to be treated by the metropolis as an
exception from the other branches of industrj^, but
openly embraced with as much speed as the circum-
stances of practical men will judiciously admit of, and
the results to be realized are as promising in the one case
as they have been overflowing in the other. The quality
of labour, from the highest to the lowest subdivision,
will be elevated, and the moral and physical status of
the cattle market of the British Capital placed on a level
with her own commercial greatness and magnificence.

THE FARMER*S MAGAZINE.

481

ON THE STOCKING OF THE AFTER-MATH, &c., &c.

We have great pleasure in responding to the wishes of
"An Amateur Farmer, 'and Subscriber to the Mark Lane
Express,^' by offering a short paper on the stocking and
consumption of after-grass by sheep, in seasons like the
past.

The weight of after-crops, unless where artificial
means are at command, such as irrigation or liquid
manuring, is always problematical, and therefore the
greatest caution is necessary to be prserved in order to
avoid overstocking. In seasons like the past, which at
one time promised an abundance of keep, but afterwards
gave the reverse, it is hardly possible to avoid such a
calamity ; so that the farmer is literally placed between
the poet's couplet ^

" Death in the front,
Damnation in tlie rear;"

being obliged either to sell at a serious sacrifice, or else
make provision for his stock by some artificial means or
other, not easily found in dear years like the present.

But calamities of this kind must b© submitted to ;
farmers may complain until they acquire for themselves
the opprobrious epithet of "a world of grumblers"
cursing their misfortunes, so coloured as to appear
" black and blue" in their own estimation ; but when
such are viewed in their proper light, they will be found
to involve some of the most important elements of their
profession. Indeed, it would be poor times for the prac-
tical man, were farming only experienced as "smooth
sailing."

In accordance with the familiar old maxim that " pre-
vention is better than cure," we have first to consider
the possibility of removing the causes of our calamities,
which may either be — an excess of moisture, accompanied
with cold ; an excess of drought ; an injudicious mode of
stocking ; or a combination of the latter and any of the
former.

The remedy in the first case is efficient drainage, with
manure when required. Where the lands are wet and
undrained, a period of cold rainy weather sometimes does
more harm to fat sheep — especially ewes and their fol-
lowers— than seasons of excessive drought. Indeed,
there is nothing which checks the progress of fattening
so fast as weather of this kind. Examples of wet-
bottomed lands are remarkably liable to vicissitudes of
the character in question ; and therefore, wherever they
exist, the sooner they are drained the better, as this will
reduce the amount of evaporation, and hence increase the
temperature and growth of grass.

In seasons of drought, water may in many cases be
successfully applied by art, so as not only to prevent
grass from being burnt up, but to force up an extra
growth of it ; and by such means a very small field may
be made, by soiling, to supply the shortcomings of others
beyond the reach of water. If, for example, a farmer
has a close of after-matk contiguous to a river, or to
which river-water can be brought, or land of any kind,

so that a field of Italian rye-grass may be provided to
meet emergencies of this kind, then he may very judi-
ciously keep a portable engine for thrashing, and in
times of drought bring it to bear upon the liquid ma-
nuring of his rye-grass (water being the richest manure
during periods of drought). We could point out hun-
dreds of streams and thousands of fields last summer,
where portable steam-engines might have been success-
fully snorting away, straining their iron sinews to the
utmost, and producing a vast amount of grass beyond
what was grown. In other words, grass lands so
watered may be made to yield an excess of grass in
summers like the past, sufficient to cover the short-
comings of those not so treated, thus keeping up an
uniform supply of food for stock. We could also point
out hundreds of fixed thrashing machines where pump-
ing apparatus might be attached, and millions of tons of
water (manure) successfully thrown upon grass lands ;
and in our southern provinces, where there is a less
supply of river water, there is no doubt but artesian
wells and pipage would pay, in many places. In each
of those cases there is a wide and promising field for
experiments ; and were such judiciously made, there is
every reason to believe that an extensive and successful
practice would soon be the result, from the per-centage
of water which grass contains, and the rapidity with
which it grows when judiciously watered in dry, warm
weather. In all ages and kingdoms of the world which
suffer from drought, water has been successfully applied,
more especially to grass lands ; and why should England,
with all her steam-going and mechanical advantages, be
an exception from the common rule ?

The third cause of over- stocking is a frequent one in
plentiful years, as well as in the reverse. As a general
rule, where stock is purchased for fattening, large flocks
should never be thrown upon the after-math at once.
The farmer who goes to market with the notion that his
fields, after this season, will grow a certain quantity of
grass for the next few months, and therefore fatten
so many head of sheep, and purchases accordingly, is
not a sound practical man, but a theoretical speculator,
who is likely to get his fingers burnt at times. More-
over, grass fields are seldom mown in one day, and
as seldom is their after-math of uniform quality, and
therefore should be stocked accordingly. Again,
when an understock is bought, a sufficiently broad
margin being left to buy in more as the season de-
mands, even then it is not a safe or judicious plan to
select such of unKorm quality, requiring one, two, or
three month's feed to fit them for the shambles. Fattening
stock, whether wethers, dry ewes, or couples, can never
be so successfully kept in one flock, even upon the after-
math, as in two or more ; and one should always be in a
sufficiently forward state to be sold to the butcher, at
any time without loss ; so that, in the event of drought
arising, they can then be disposed of, thus securing ample

K K

482

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE'.

provision for tlie remainder ; for sheep fit for slaughter-
ing, as second-rate quality will generally pay their keep
better than those farther back in the process of fattening.
On the other hand, if the grass is abundant, they may
be kept on until the second lot or a large draft of them
is fit for occupying the best grass in their places, when
they may be sold, and more purchased, should there be
keep. In short, as grass is daily growing, the fanner's
maxim should be daily buying and selling, thus manu-
facturing the raw material (grass) into mutton as fast
as it grows, and, like every other intelligent manufac-
turer, keeping the manufactured article in the shape of
stock on hand as short a time as possible, because of its
perishable character, or liability to waste. Some such
rule as this, or as near to it as possible, is that which
every intelligent successful practical farmer endeavours
to follow in the stocking of his after-grass.

The fourth cause — an overstock in combination with an
excess of drought or moisture — may of course be avoided
by a corresponding combination of the above plans, so
that on this head we need not say more.

The other side of the question is, where the farmer has
been overtaken by some one or other of the above causes.
Draining, sinking artesian wells, bringing water to fields
ia pipes, and permanent works of this kind, lepfitimately
belong to the landlord, and are often boyond his (the
farmer's) reach, so that when he is overtaken by drought,
as many were last summer, how is he to provide for Ins
stock when the price of corn exceeds that of mutton,
and when a sufficiency of water to drink can with great
difficulty be had ? We have given ground oats, beans,
peas, Indian corn, barley, and oil-cake successfully,
both to feeding and store sheep, at higher prices than
they at present realize in Mark Lane ; but the flock was
one of a very superior quality, one sheep having carried
oif the first prize at the summer meeting of the Royal
Agricultural Society, in its class. Fine quality, possess-
ing an aptitude to fatten, will pay for cake and corn if
judiciously given, although at a very high price ; but the
more ordinary description will not cover present prices
of corn( Oct. 23), while inferior cpiality seldom pay for
either cake or corn, and sometimes very little for their
grass. These are facts which farmers must always bear
in mind in stocking their after-math.

It will thus readily be seen that the malady at issue is
one which hardly admits of a successful remedy, unless
upon the preventive mode of treatment, buying of stock
only which will pay for their extra corn and cake to
supply the dijiciencij of grass. If a farmer can pur-
chase or has on his farm a redundancy of cake, corn,
and hay, and select a stock which will repay these, then
the over-stocking of his after-math ceases to have a
reality ia practice ; but if, on the other hand, he has not
artificial food of this kind within his reach, from which
to give an extra supply, and has not made such a selec-
tion of stock, then he experiences himself in a very
different position ; for under such circumstances there
is but one choice left him of adopting alternative
measures.

In practice it frequently occurs, where large flocks are
bought in for the after-grass, that although the whole

flock will not pay for cake, corn, and hay, to supply the
deficiency of natural keep in times of drought, a large
portion of it will yet do so ; consequently, when this is
the case, the best quality should be carefully drafted
from the inferior, and allowed so much artificial food
daily in a close by themselves, in preference to the alter-
native practices about to be noticed, for which the infe-
rior quality only is adapted. In point of fact, successful
fattening is almost entirely dependent upon the proper
drafting of sheep into separate pens or lots, and feeding
them with food natural or artificial, or a mixture of
bo'.h, according to their respective constitutional quali-
ficatioas.

Alternative measures will very much depend upon
local circumstances, and the peculiar course of hus-
bandry adopted. If a farmer, for instance, is in the
habit of buying in a stock of sheep for fattening on his
after-grass, and also of purchasing in bullocks or sheep
for winter fattening on turnips, then if he fails in sum-
mer and autumn in oonsequence of drought to fatten on
grass, it may be his most profitable course to carry for-
ward his first purchase to supply the place of the second,
feeding his sheep indoors on turnips, &c. ; and in mak-
ing the first purchase successful, feeders will generally
be found to make suitable provision for such an alter-
native.

But when the first purchase consists of couples, the
lambs may not be fit for fattening during winter, being
of a quality requiring a more matured stage of growth,
and the farmer may, under such circumstances, have
greater difficulty in carrying them forward to the next
year's grass on his winter keep. Were other things
practicable, for instance, he may not be able to remain
so long out of his money ; for this practice, it will be per-
ceived, involves the manufacture of three craps (the
after-math, the turnips, and the next year's hay or grass
crop) into one sale of mutton. In farming, " turning
the penny" is a maxim as applicable as in other arts or
trades.

If the farmer is not ia the habit of purchasing in win-
ter stock, having reared stock or spring purchases to
consume his turnips, hay, and stravr on hand, then an-
other alternative must be adopted with aftermath pur-
chases not disposed of. If we suppose, for instance,
that he keeps a full stock, and of a second-rate quality,
which will not pay for extra corn and cake this year, so
as to spare part of their hay, straw, and turnips for his
aftermath stock, then he will either have to sell off the
latter, they being extra stock, or else part of his own, to
make room for them, according as he may find it the
most profitable course ; or he may winter his extra stock
out, if he is fortunate enough to find a party who has the
keep. This latter is generally the most profitable alter-
native of the two, and it is seldom that t!:e country as a
whole is overstocked, but the reverse.

If he has not a full winter stock on hand when he
makes his aftermath purchases, then he may wedge in
the latter, dividing the keep among them , and giving the
whole but a scanty wintering. But the more prudent
plan is to draft in part for winter stock, and either sell
or winter out the remainder.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

483

If the farmer has no breeding stock on his grass lands
during winter, another alternative is, to allow his after-
math purchases a run over these with any stabble fields,
&c., until they are ploughed, giving them the straw-yard
at nights or part of it, or a small yard for themselves,
with a little cut straw or chaff, and oilcake at times, to
avoid the greatest of two losses.

V/hen ewes are thus kept as store sheep during winter,
au early fall of lambs may sometimes be successfully
obtaiaed, if the grass lands are dry and afford an early
bite ; but otherwise, the practice is surrounded with in-
numerable difficulties, and seldom pays, especially in the
hands of parties inesperienced in milk ewes, for in
spring they require the greatest care and best of keep
with their lambs.

Where stock will repay for cake and corn during win-
ter, they will also pay for it during the drought of sum-
mer, and generally in a higher degree, and this is the time
when artificial food of this kind should be given,
so as to convert what grass there is immediately
into mutton. It frequently, however, occurs that
this is neglected ; for many farmers during times of
drought are in the daily expectation of rain, and will
prognosticate a thousand changes of the weather before
they will put their bands into their pockets to purchase
artificial food, or even the aftermath of their nearest
neighbour's field. In practice, there is too much of this
unfortunately experienced ; and when stock of this kind
is thrown upon the winter keep, a very few turnips or
green food of any kind will fatten them, along with a
liberal allowance of cake and corn. Under such circum-
stances, the farmer will always be able to give the iiigh-
est figure to those letting their turnips to be eaten off
the ground, or yet where they are to be drawn and
consumed in the strawyard or grass-fields.

One common error requires notice before concluding,
and that is : When farmers find themselves with an
extra stock on hand, more than their farms will support,
they are alvv^ays anxious that some compound or substi-
tute should be concocted by wiser folks than themselves,

to make their farms larger, as it were, forgetting that
there is but one rule for the economy of food in plen-
tiful years, as in those of scarcity, " wintering ewes"
requiring only a less supply than fattening stock ; for
were a combination of cake, corn, hay, straw, or any
other substitute discovered, to supersede the natural
produce of the farm as remunerating food for sheep,
then such shoidd always be used. The line of
demfircation between profit and loss in the feeding
of sheep on artificial food is a very nice one. That, in-
stead of economy of food, the reverse is often to be
found, is but too true ; but, before a rule could be
given under such circumstances, the facts of the case
would require to be known, both as to the quality of the
sheep and raw materials for food. Furthermore, that
the economy of our best feeders could be greatly im-
proved, is equally plain ; but this, again, has nothing to
do with the management of extra stock, or number of
sheep more than farms are able to support. On this
topic we shall endeavour to offer a few observations
before the winter is over.

Such is a very imperfect review of this most import-
ant subject — the stocking of aftermath with sheep. It
will readily have been seen that it is more easy and pro-
fitable to provide for the contingencies of the past
season on the preventive mode of treatment than on the
curative. We have devoted nearly an equal space to
each, but have less consolation to give under the latter
than the former. At the same time, it is certainly some
comfort to think that the country, as a whole, is never
overstocked ; so that, where the farmer makes the best
of his keep, wintering out appears to be the rule. The
application of water, so as to make the extra heat of
drought produce an extra crop, is a proposition worthy
of the notice of our implement-makers. Several thou-
sand engines contending with the weather successfully,
is too important a matter to be delayed much longer.
What would it cost to reduce it to practice — throw
1,000 tons of water upon an acre of grass, for in-
stance ?

THE CHEMISTRY Ol? MANURES -GUANO.

SiE, — I £.etid you a copy of a letter on guano, which you
are welcome to make use of, should you consider the contents
likely to be interesting to your readers.

The former part, relative to the supply, &c., is quite new,
and diametrically opposite to the accounts given of the Peru-
vian islands by those who wish to keep up the price. This
one, however, I can vouch for being correct.
Yours, &c.,

Nottingham, Nov. I. Sajiuel Park.

Before entering upon the subject of guano as a manure, I
will relate to you a few interesting facts respecting it, commu-
nicated to me by a friend fCaptaiu Fyfe, brother to the editor
of the Noliingkamshire Guardian), both as regards the extent
of its supply and ttie sources of its production. Last year
Captain F>'fe visited Peru and brought over from the Chincha
Islands a cargo of guano. His account of these islands is

totally different from any I have yet seen published ; for in^
stead of the guano being exhausted in eight or ten years,
which most writers assert, he says that the supply, compara-
tively speaking, is inexhauslihle — the beds of guano being in
many places more than one hundred feet thick, and two or
three of the principal islands being yet untouched.

On climbing the cliffs au innumerable quantity of skeletons
of large marine animals were presented to his view, such as
those of the seal and walrus, or sea-horse, sticking up out of
the surface, iu such quantities that the place appeared to be
completely white all over ; and these account in some measure
for the v.'hite lumps frequently met with in Peruvian guano,
which are no doubt the decomposed vertebrje of these animals.

Passing along over the island, he could scarcely take a step
without liis foot breaking through into a hole in which the
guano bird makes its nest.

These holes extend five or six yards into the bed of guano,

K K 2

484

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

and the birds are continually occupied iu fetching fish from
the sea to feed their young ones. The number is so immense
that the air seems completely alive with them. By this ac-
count, on which the most implicit reliance can he placed, you
will perceive that guano is not all excrementitious matter, as
we have hitherto been led to suppose, but consists of a con-
siderable amount of decomposed animal matter iu addition to
the excrement of birds. It is evident from this brief sketch
that the supply of guano will be at present by no meats
limited, and therefore it rests with yourselves to petiticn
Government, through your respective members of Parliament,
to endeavour to devise means to get it imported into this
country at a cheaper rate. I have no doubt that this could be
done, if it ^ere set about in good earnest, by some of the
more influential of your body ; not perhaps so quickly as our
gallant fellows crowned the heights of Alma in the late ter-
rible conflict in the East, but nevertheless I think it might be
accomplished erelong. Of course, the distance of the period
will be in proportion to the extent to which you exert your-
selves in the matter.

From a very remote period (about two thousand years)
guano has been the chief manure applied to the land on the
arid soils of Peru. As the quantity generally used does not
exceed 4 cwt. per acre, you will perceive from the analysis
below that this could not possibly supply all the alkaline salts
which are required by plants. Professor Liebig says, " We
can only attribute the different quantities of guano necessary
for producing the same results on different soils to the un-
equal quantities of ingredients necessary to vegetation con-
tained in the soils, and not to those contained in guano. Ou a
soil rich in alkali only a moderate quantity of guano is re-
quisite ; but on soils poor in alkalies it would take a large
amount of guano to compensate for the want of potash or soda
in the soil." The reason why the effects of guano are more
uniform than perhaps any other artificial manure, with the ex-
ception of bones, is, that it contains a greater variety of the
constituents of plants, that portion of it which is excrementi-
tious matter partaking more of the nature and properties of
farm-yard manure. Each of these bears a pretty equal resem-
blance to farm-yard manure, inasmuch as both of them supply
phosphoric acid and ammonia, and both are derived, like it,
from the vegetable food of animals.

Undoubtedly guano is the most useful manure that has ever
yet been imported into this country, and the reason why
guano which is found in our own climate is of far less value
than the Peruvian is, that the greater part of the soluble
portion of that which is produced in this country (in the
islands of Scotland for instance) is washed out by the rain.
The following is one of the most recent analyses of Peruvian
guano :—

Water.... 14-31

Salts of ammonia 17'00

Organic matter 33-23

Alkaline salts 5-449

Phosphates 25-543

Salts of lame 2 968

Sand, &c 1-50

100-000

The percentage of water in this sample, however, is rather
high ; I lEiely find it to exceed 10 per cent., that of silica 1
percent.

It would be almost unnecessary to remind you of the
immense extent of adulteration which is practised by some of
the unprincipled dealers in this article; and, therefore, it is a
matter of importance that you should be put in possession of
an easy method of detecting these frauds. When guano is

light (as regards the weight) and pretty uniform in colour,
generally speaking, you may consider it good ; but when you
have any suspicion as to its genuineness, the following mode
of testing it is not only easy of performance, but will yield
you sutficiently accurate results : — Take one hundred grains of
the suspected sample, spread it carefully on a piece of writing
paper, and lay it on the hob, which must not be so hot as to
char the paper. When perfectly dry, weigh it again ; the loss
of weight is the amount of moisture it contained, with a very
small quantity of ammonia, which would be driven off by the
heat along with the water. Then take the same dried and
weighed sample, place it upon a piece of sheet-iron, and heat
it over a bright fire until nothing but a white or grey ash
remains ; take it off the fire, allow it to cool, sweep it carefully
into the scale, and weigh it again; the loss indicates the
amount of ammoniacal salts and organic matter. The ash
must now be transferred into a teacup, and well mixed with
half an ounce of spirits of salts (muriatic acid). If chalk has
been mixed with the guano, violent effervescence will take
place; if not, the effervescence will be very slight indeed.
After this has been allowed to stand on the warm hob for five
or ten minutes, the undissolved portion must be well washed
with clean water ; the eye will then easily be able to detect
sand or brick- dust if there be any, which will remain at the
bottom of the cup, the acid not being able to dissolve either of
these. This residue must be carefully collected, dried, and
weighed, which of course will give you the per-centage of sand
and rubbish, and the difference in weight will give the amount
of the soluble salts (phosphate of lime, magnesia, &c.), minus
the ammonia which was driven off by the burning ou the
iron plate.

To give you some idea of the proportions, 100 grains of
good Peruvian guano ought to weigh 90 grains after being
dried on the paper, 34 grains after being burnt on the iron
plate, and about 1 grain when perfectly dried after being
treated with spirits of salts.

It is always well to mix the guano before being applied to
the soil with common salt or charcoal, on account of the powet
which they possess of attracting moisture in dry seasons from
the atmosphere. I have seen a mixture of the two of about
three times the quantity of these to one part of guano attended
with the most important results as regards increase of crop.

As it must ever be an object to economise the use of this
valuable and expensive manure, the admixture of it with super-
phosphate and salt cannot be too strongly recommended ; not
only does the former of these make the guano go much further,
but on account of it fixing the ammonia, both are improved in
value. The better plan is to mix them together a few days
before they are applied to the soil.

I remain your obedient servant, Samuel Parr.

FRENCH FARMERS.— The usual rent of land is about
80 francs per hectare, 33 francs per acre ; and the land-tax,
amounting to about 13 fraues per hectare, is also generally
paid by the tenant. The farmers, though well off, are frugal,
both as regards dress and living ; their wives are " the very
impersonations of industry." Tlie French farmer's wife takes
a lively interest in the homestead, and is as ready to show a
stranger over the whole as the farmer himself, being alike at
home among the ca,ttle in the straw-yard as among the poultry.
From the number of men boarded in the house, and the
female servants being few iu number, the farmer's wife has
her hands full. " Still she never appears to overlook the toilet
being in dress and in manner essentially the well-bred lady." —
N. B, Agriculturist,

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

485

DRY-DRILL v. WATER-DRILL.

Sir, — Curiosity is usually excited wlien any novelty
is introduced to the agricultural world. Various and
contradictory opinions are frequently elicited from ob-
servers. There are those who are always prepared to
pronounce favoura'bly of anything that is new, and to
lend it their advocacy, whilst others appear to manifest
a natural abhorrence of novelty, and regard every new
invention as Utopian 3 but the great class of practical
men are mainly guided in the formation of their opinions
by close observation, and the results of successive and
repeated experiments.

During the last few years the water-drill has shared
no small measure of public attention, and opinions re-
specting it have been numerous and conflicting. Having
witnessed some very successful results from its use in
the north of Lincolnshire, I was induced to purchase
one of Chandler's last year.

At the London Farmers' Club last April, when Mr.
Spooner introduced the following subject for discussion

—viz., " On the Application of Manure in a Liquid
State to Roots, Grasses, and Grain Crops"— I stated
that I was about to make a series of experiments with
mangels, to test the comparative merits of the dry and
water-drills, the results of which I promised to publish
in the autumn. I now redeem my pledge, and append
a table, showing every necessary particular, and giving
the produce per acre of each experiment.

The season has been an unfavourable one for making
the experiments, as the drought and heat during the
months of August and September were so intense as to
stop the growth of the mangels in one or two instances
entirely, whilst that of the others was greatly impeded.
Nos. 4, 5 and 6 were the hottest land, and consequently
the crop is a very light one. In No. 7, those sown with
the dry drill were a total failure. I am therefore only
able to give the produce resulting from the use of the
water-drill.

No. of
Experi-

Wlien Sown.

April 1st.

What Drill used

Water-drill

Quantity and Description of
Artifiaial Manure per Acre.

l^cwt. Lawes' super- I

phosphate of lime
Dry-drill .... Ditto
Dry-drill .... None

Cost per
Acre for
Artificial
Manure.

s. d.
11 3
11 3

Farm-yard

Manure
per Acre.

16 loads .

16 loads .
16 loads .

When

Weighed.

Oct. 5th.

Produce per Acie.

rons cwt. St. lbs.

20 16 6 4

15 9 5 2

13 13 4 8

April 3rd.

Water-drill J.

Dry-drill

Dry- drill

I§ cwt. Lawes' super,
phosphate of lime .

Ditto =

None

11 3
11 3

16 loads .

16 loads .
16 loads .

Oct. 5th.

20 19 2 4

15 16 6 4
15 0 0 0

April 1 7th. ^

Water-drill

Dry-drill ,
Dry-drill ,

April 5th. .■

April 18th ,

ill j

1 cwt. Lawes' super- T
phosphate of lime . J

Ditto

None

Water-drill

Dry-drill . .
Dry-drUl . .

I5 cwt. Lawes' super- "1
phosphate of lime . J

Ditto

None

Water-drill

Dry. drill..
Dry -drill . .

1 cwt. Lawes' super- "1
phosphate of lime . J

Ditto

None

f iWater-driil |

April 4th.. <^|j3ry.drill...^.

I Dry-driU

April 20th..

Water-drill

1 J cwt. Lawes' super- "I
phosphate of lime . J

Ditto

None

1 cwt. Lawes' super- "1
phosphate of lime . J

7 6
7 6

11 loads.

11 loads .
11 loads ,

Oct. 4th.

17 7 6 12

13 15 2 12
8 15 0 0

11 3
11 3

11 loads ,

11 loads ,
11 loads .

Oct. 3rd.

15 14 5 2

14 14 2 4
11 17 4 0

7 6
7 6

13 loads

13 loads
13 loads

Oct. 4th.

13 19 2 4

10 8 1 10

6 18 4 8

11 3
11 3

15 loads .

15 loads
15 loads

Oct. 3rd.

9 18 7 6

8 12 1 2
6 10 0 0

7 6

13 loads

Oct. 17th.. 27 14 2 4

Apologising for having occupied so much of
Wenny Road, Chatteris, October 2Zrd.

your space,

I am, very truly yours,

Alfred S. Ruston.

486

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

THE FARMERS' NEWSPAPE

Among our oldestreeollections is that of ourgrandsire's
newspaper. The sight of the venerable old man (a J. P.
and ruling Elder in the Parish) wiping his spectacles at
his window long before we got nigh him on bis pony, is
as vivid and fresh as ever. To administer to his com-
fort and hippiness was always a dufey no less sacred
than gratifying, and few things gave bim more satisfac-
tion than the timely delivery of his paper. It was
the leading journal of the district (three adjoining coun-
ties), and embraced all matters agricultural an well as
manufacturing, commercial, and ecclesiastical — in short,
all " the news of the day" worthy of noticing ; had a wide
circulation; was sound in principle, connecting itself
with no party ; and generally looked up to as a standard
authority on all the above topics ; was published every
(weekly market-day) Friday, and as duly as Saturday
morning's post passed the village church, as regularly did
some youthful member of the family perform the never-
to-be-forgotten errand of " going for the newspaper.''
Neither the hurry of seed-time, nor the more harassing
labours of harvest, were ever allowed to stand in the
way. Angry Winter might blow his worst, or the floods
of Summer sweep bridges and everything else before
them, but ''paper day" never failed to deliver the
week's news at the appointed hour by some means or
other; and to us, when on a visit, the worse the weather
the more honourable the task.

Grandfather's newspaper had many a parallel in the
district ; whilst the district itself was, and still is, far from
an exception to the general rule. The farmer's news-
2}aper, generally speaking, were its history faithfully
told, will be found to possess many characteristics pecu-
liar to itself — even to this very day, when steam, the
railway, and telegraph are fast breaking down those
bulwarks which have so long stood as an insurmountable
barrier between our rural ai^d urban communities and
interests.

Among the mora prominent of these is the academical
mission which it performs. It is literally the school-
master abroad— fbr instance, teaching successfully when
no one else would be heard; for the Press is well known
to possess a sort of " second-sight" besides the facilities
it enjoys for acquiring information, so that there is no-
thing which it ought not to know, and seldom much but
its harrow drags to the surface sooner or later. Now,
such being the facts of the case, it will readily be per-
ceived why the farmer will listen to his newspaper when
neither his landlord, nearest neighbour, or even the
minister of the parish can reach his ear.

But the singularly appropriate instruction afforded by
the farmer's newspaper is deserving of more detailed
illustration, for it not only brings a view of the whole
world weekly to the secluded retirement of his iireside,
but it also condenses and arranges the same, so as to
present a special column to every member of the family.
"We have first, for example, the review of the corn,

cattle, and money markets of the metropolis, which
regulate those of the provinces, with the leading articles
more particularly interesting to the farmer himself.
Nest, deaths, marrieges, and births, with other domestic
events of a similar nature. These are events which
never fail to excite the heartfelt emotions of the
Mrs.' half of the fireside ; and it is often remarkable
with what rapidity and volubility the mind of woman is
able to discharge its duties, under circumstances bo diver-
sified ; shifting from the highest pinnacle of connubial
bliss to the lowest level of sadness and commiseration
to which fallen hninanity is heir to, as fast as the reader
can shift from one paragraph to another. And besides
news of this kind, the reports of the butter and provision
markets, with sugar, tea, &:c., are topics of peculiar
interest to many a farmer's wiie, and daughters aspiring
to be so ; topics with which they are soon familiar ; the
moment the paper enters the door, discussing the ups
and downs of the market, with as much confidence and
propriety as if they were members of Newgate, Leaden-
hall, or Mincing Lane. Then we have advertisements
and reports of the general and local exhibitions of live-
stock and implements, ploughing matches, tup shows,
sales of improved breeds of cattle, and of farm-stock at
the espiry of leases ; farms to let, new discoveries in
chemistry and mechanics ; the prosperity of manufac-
tures and commerce, which so many farmers' sons pre-
fer to agriculture. These, and many other things of this
kind engross the particular attention of farmers' sons,
and more than they ; and lastly, the doings of our be-
loved sovereign, and the " Big-House" (Parliament)
who take off taxes, and put them on just as the exigen-
cies of the nation demand. Our army and navy, again,
defending unto death the many sacred liberties v/e enjoy,
and the undermining spirit of despotic governments
seeking to overthrow our blood-bought constitution and
commercial greatness, with our boundless colonial em-
pire, and its hidden treasures, come home to every rural
fireside with a general interest, which it would be in vain
to attempt to describe. In short, when the different
columns of the farmer's newpaper are faithfully scanned,
an amount of information is at once perceptible, whose
value the long winter evenings of the country alone can
estimate.

Another peculiarity of the farmer's newspaper is its
itinerant character, carrying the news of the week from
farm-house to farm-house, with a singleness of heart
and purpose, so to speak, never to be forgotten. Many
tenants are so circumstanced, between rent, rates, and
taxes, that they can only spare some 5s. yearly for a
newspaper ; while it costs more than five times the
money — hence a subscription company of so many mem-
bers is formed, with one aa the principal, who orders the
paper and collects the cash, each member generally hav-
ing a night ; and we may just add, that the news to the
last are as fresh and full of interest as to the first ; such

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

487

is the quietude of rural retirement. At market or the
like, no doubt so-and-so may have been heard ; but hear-
say news never has that official stamp of credibility
about it, which the columns of one's newspaper possess.

This conjunct system of " raising the wind," we may
furt!;er observe, gives rise to some interesting scenes at
times, such as when any important agricultural measure
is producing a protracted and animated debate in parlia-
ment. We have seen, for instance, when the corn law,
tenant-right, and malt-tax questions were before the
house, the whole company assembled in the principal
member's house, to hear results; on which occasions the
subject at issue was redebated with a degree of magnani-
mity befitting a far more elevated position of life, the
debate sometimes being adjourned to the second and
third night. Farmers thus united, again, although they
may frequently differ on many points, yet fraternize,
as it were, upon the whole ; so that when anything ex-
traordinary occurs either in the agricultural or political
world, consultations are frequent, in order to arrive at
satisfactory conclusions, and sometimes to draw up an
appeal to head-quarters for a little more editorial day-
light on the subject. Further, the limitation of on^
night to each member, the last excepted, makes that a
more than ordinary one of the week ; so that absence
from home on " paper night," or any similar casvialty,
necessarily produces disappointment — a change of night,
or a visit to another member's house, to hear the news-
paper read to the family, which it also necessitates, as
there is not time for each member of the family perusing
it for themselves. These and many other interesting
circumstances of a kindred character are the result of
this calculating mode of " raising the wind," to cover
a sixpenny weekly expenditure.

The go-ahead, fail-me-never perseverance in the dis-
charge oF its duty is another very conspicuous charac-
teristic of the farmer's newspaper, which ought not to
be overlooked. Bad weather puts an end to the opera-
tions of the field. Servants require strict looking after,
and often, when done, allow the work to fall behind ;
teams refuse to pull, or grow old and die ; even the
farmer's own head grows grey : but his newspaper
renews its age like the eagle, exercising its official
rod of circumspection with the greater firmness, " caring
neither for gentle nor simple." Good weather and bad
have no influence whatever upon its columns ; for the
frosty winds of winter and scorching suns of summer
rather add to than diminish their lustre.

Such are some of the more distinguishing features of
the farmer's newspaper, retrospectively viewed. Our
observation?, however, although principally confined to
times bygone, are yet applicable to much that is pre-
sent ; for there are many who can only yet afford some
five shillings yearly for their newspaper, although it is
otherwise with the majority, who now feel the necessity
of more attention being paid to scientific information than
their forefathers experienced. In other words :

The farmer's newspaper, in modern times, is becom-
ing a more important member of the agricultural
system, so to speak — a sine qua non in every establish-
ment, an indispensable division of farm stock. In the I

good olden time, the landlord afforded a plough and
team which served a whole district ; and as it was with
the plough, so was it with the newspaper — on« served a
whole district also. But those times are gone ; for
every farmer now must have his own plough and news-
paper for his own exclusive use, and one plough and
newspaper are not enough for the practical demands of
the age, for, on the one hand, he must not only have
ploughs of different kinds, but implements unheard of in
the patriarchal days of our forefathers, such as " patent
forking or digging machines," grubbers, scarifiers, sub-
soil pulverizers, &3., all to facilitate, abridge, and im-
prove the antiquated and imperfect labours of the
plough; and, for a similar reason, he must also have,
an equally full stock of agricultural periodicals, including
half-yearly, quarterly, monthly, and weekly publications,
besides the local paper of the district, and a library,
before he can keep pace with the progress of things*
In short,

Practice and science now form the farmer's team ;
and the soil must pay for loth. In other words, the
investment of the requisite amount of capital in agricul-
tural education, periodicals, and standard works, is as
absolutely necessary to successful husbandry, as the
investment of the requisite amount of capital in improved
implements, live stock, and artificial manures. The
one can never be allowed to fall behind the other, o^
the result will be a bad-going team ; hut both must go
steadily together, to produce the greatest result : and
according to equity, their claims upon the produce of
the soil will also be equal, and obviously inferior to
none.

At present, the investment of capital in scientific
agriculture is too little dwelt upon by both land-
lord and tenant. Scientific information is now
accessible to all, so that neither has any excuse
for being ignorant.

The problem which either party has to solve is briefly
this, uiill Jcnoicledge pay ? Will it pay the tenant, for
instance, to invest some £10 annually in agricultural
periodicals, besides £100 in a small select library, and
save i£?200 more than he now does in education, so as to
enable him to profit by what he does read, and apply
improved machinery and manures in the most profitable
manner to the soil ? Many will, no doubt, feel disposed
to answer that " few farmers have got such sums to
spare for such a purpose — live stock, seed, labour, and
implements, requiring more than they can command ;"
but, unfortunately for them, the problem is a long way
jjast this mode of solution ; for the circulation of agri-
cultural periodicals and works proves beyond a doubt
that capital so invested will pay, while the opposite will
not, and that unless young farmers can bring capital
thus to bear upon agriculture, they must of necessity
be surpassed by others.

The position of landlords in reference to the invest-
ment of capital in the scientific management of their
estates is one of extreme anxieiy at present ; for they
are not merely personally involved themselves, but they
are also involved by their tenants. They not only run
the risk, for instance, of being swept from their estates

488

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

by neglecting to educate themselves, and keep pace with
agricultural science afterwards ; but they run a still
greater risk of being so, if their tenants are found in
such a position. In other words, they must not only
make themselves masters of the science and practice of
agriculture, keeping pace with their progress by annual
iavestments, but they must also see that their tenants
do so.

On this head, we may briefly observe that justice is
hardly being done to some landlords who are now
exerting themselves to procure a better education for the
sons of their tenantry ; for many are apprehensive that
their motives for doing so is an advance of rent. Now,
nothing can be more groundless than prejudices
of this kind ; for it is only out of ignorant tenants that
any avaricious landlord can rationally hope to screw
more than his own, while by giving them a better educa-
tion he is obviously qualifying them for taking better
care of themselves.

On the part of the landlord, the greatest barrier
appears to be the long period between the time he finishes
an imperfect education and that when he succeeds
to the patrimonial inheritance, during which he is all but
alienated from the soil! In other branches, the moment
that the heir- apparent receives his education he enters
upon his apprenticeship ; and much of this latter period,
as well as the former, is spent in acquiring a thorough
knowledge of his profession; but during the former
period the young landlord is too frequently taught
to believe that all topics connected with agricul-
ture legitimately belong to agents and their bailiffs,
only appreciating their value when he is placed

under the painful alternative of either submitting the
entire management of his property to them, or else
paying sweetly for his own appi-entice=fee. It is far from
our wish to say a word against the management of landed
estates by agents; but upwards of thirty years' ex-
perience in connexion with land compels us honestly to
confess, that the sooner landlords are qualified to manage
their own affairs, so much the better for themselves and
their tenantry : and such a qualification ought obviously
to be obtained prior to their succession. Up to this
period, it certainly would not be much for them to invest
£'100 in agricultural works, and £10 per annum after-
wards in periodicals, so as to make themselves entirely
masters of the most ennobling of all professions : and
yet how few of them have invested this small sum !

On the part of the tenant, a want of will and capital
to commence with, is obviously the greatest barrier in
the way of investments as proposed. The former will^
obviously disappear on the rising generation reaching
maturity, as they are now receiving a better education.
No doubt a large number of farmers' sons are beyond
the reach of the agricultural schools where such is
received; but self-tuition during the long winter eve-
nings and leisure hours of summer is within their reach;
and it is here where agricultural works and periodicals
are performing an important mission, and where they are
destined to do ten-fold more than they are even now
doing. The farmer's newspaper is fast removing pre-
judices to science, and also pointing out how by a proper
revisal of our land-laws a sufficiency of capital for all
useful purposes may always be had for investing in books
as well as in draining.

TRUNK DRAINAGE

The prize essay on Trunk Drainage, in the last
number of the Journal of the Royal Agricultural
Society of England, by Mr. Algernon Clarke, is a
valuable contribution to our agricultural literature,
the value of which is greatly enhanced by its being
the work of one holding the highest rank among
practical farmers. He may well be allowed to speak
of the too frequently prevalent unbusiness-like style
of husbandry, which neglects the internal ditches of
a farm, and allows them to be choked with " a semi-
aquatic, semi-sylvan growth of weeds, brambles,
and underwood. " He may speak of " adventurous
tenants, or landlords complaisantly liberal, burying
pipes beneath overflowed lands." He may denounce
tjie now obsolete prejudices of the Bedford Level
farmers, which were " practised " in their day, in
favour of moderately overflowed land, and against
any attempt to improve it. He may ridicule the
" predilections engendered by habit or ancestorial
usage of the wet-vale farmer, in favour of his green-
sward." Such expressions from him pass unnoticed,

when they might raise a whole country side in arms,
however true they might be, if they fell from the
lips of an " apron farmer." Our present concern,
however, is solely with trunk or arterial drainage,
and Mr. Clarke's prize essay thereon. It is an
essay which we would commend to the serious
attention of those landowners in Ireland who are
dissatisfied with the arterial drainage of the Board
of Works. They will learn from it the superiority
of individual enterprise and combined exertion
over undertakings executed on Government re-
sponsibility. They will see how our drainage
works have hitherto been carried out, and the
improvements which are proposed in our pre-
sent system, for the prevention of mismanagement
from local jobbing on the one hand, and from over
centralisation on the other.

Mr. Clarke's object, he tells us, is to show,
chiefly by precedent and example, that the im-
provement of our main lines of drainage is
necessary to a more effective husbandry in our

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

present over-watered districts; and that it is
compatible with better navigation and increased
water-power. He treats his subject under the dif-
ferent heads prescribed by the society : The effect
of rivers and brooks in benefiting contiguous grass-
lands, by occasional winter flooding, and injuring
it by too great protraction of flood ; injury from
summer flooding; injury of flooding on arable
land ; and injury by the stoppage or prevention of
under-draining. He then treats of the existing
difficulties in the application of a remedy arising
from claims of mills, navigation, &c. ; the best and
cheapest modes of dealing with such claims ; the
best mode of correcting existing evils, with due re-
gard to the preservation of the requisite moisture
of subsoil in existing meadows and iri'igation. In
discussing the physical and moral impediments to
the improvement of trunk drainage^ he traces its
history from the first co-operative enterprises of
our Saxon ancestors, in the marshes of Kent and
Sussex, the fens of Lincolnshire and Cambridge-
shire, and the moors of Somersetshire. He shews
how, from the ancient usage or common law of the
realm, arose the local Commissions of Sewers, which
were from time to time appointed to conserve the
public drains and works in various counties, and
the statute law enacted for the maintenance of
works of drainage and embankment, the construc-
tion of new works, the removal of obstructions
arising from mills and fishing weirs, and the appor-
tionment of the cost of these improvements on the
lands which were benefited by them. To provide
a remedy for the inefficiency of these local com-
missions, the General Drainage Act of the 43rd of
Elizabeth was enacted, which included all the low-
land districts of England : it sanctioned the em-
ployment of '' undertakers," who would drain the
flooded wastes and commons for a portion of the
lands improved. Out of this arose the jobbing
schemes which became so numerous^and fashion-
able among the large landowners and courtiers,
and excited so much disturbance and hostility
among the fen-men and commoners in the reigns
of James and Charles, and during the Common-
wealth.

The largestundertaking of this kind — the Bedford
Level, which is the greatest field on which arterial
drainage works have received their cultivation and
principal development — is pointed outbylVlr.Clarke
as furnishing in its machinery, for government as at
present constituted, an example both of what should
be followed and what should be avoided in the con-
stitution of future commissions for the reclaiming
of our river valleys or maritime deltas now waiting
for improvement. For them he considers local
acts to be necessary. It appears, he says, even
from the fact of an essay prize being offered on this

topic, that we are still in much the same dilemma
with regard to general and trunk draining that our
ancestors were in, two centuries ago. Extensive
drownings take place in many localities, too fre-
quently to be consistent with agricultural economy
or the welfare of the community at large. Public
determination is declaring for aremedy; and yet the
inactivity of those districts, or their rampant hos-
tility to alteration, debars the needed improvement.
However, from our fen experience, we know better
than to allow the same series of misdirected efforts
of sewers, follies of "undertakers," and muddlings
of petty private drainages, to be acted over again
in our upland valleys. As the fen-commons, navi-
gations, fishings, decoys, turbaries, all yielded to
the public drainage schemes, under more or less of
compensation, so must water-mills, canals, mea-
dows, &c., give way to our approaching river im-
provements ; and each of our principal river valleys
treated as a district complete in itself, and requiring
nothing short of a comprehensive design, embrac-
ing its estuary delta, its marginal meadows, its
navigation, its mills — all properties bound in one
general plan— may muster, perhaps, sufficient forces
to obtain for itself an Act of Parliament for effec-
tual amelioration. But how are the innumerable
small streams, which are the tributaries of the main
lines of drainage, to be dealt with ? On their im-
provement by the removal of natural or artificial
impediments, more than on the improvement of
main lines, depends the successful under-draining
of many an upland district — of most, in fact, of our
improvable arable land. Are such districts to await
the result of the long contest which must be main-
tained between the progressive and stationary in-
terests which abound in our principal valleys, before
such an act may be passed ? or can any more sum-
mary and expeditious machinery be devised by which
the tributary lines of drainage may be first im-
proved, and thus render more necessary the removal
of obstructions on the main line, in consequence of
the greater quantity of water which will be poured
into them, and the greater rapidity with which it
will come down? Are they to be independent of
the improvement of the main line, or in what pro-
portion shall they contribute to it ? and how shall
a cheap and a trustworthy tribunal be established
for assessing the proportion in which the uplands
shall contribute to the improvement of the main
line and its low-lands ? These are questions which
Mr. Clarke has discussed; they are questions
which have acquired additional interest from the
controversy which has arisen in Ireland, between
the landowners and the Board of Works, as the
planner and executor of such undertakings there ;
but their consideration we must postpone for the
present.

490

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

THE PROSPECTIVE PRICE OF WHEAT,

It may perchance savour somewhat of presump-
tion in a plain practical farmer stepping o«t of his
regular and well-beaten track for the purpose of
attempting a word of caution or advice to his fellow-
farmers upon this subject. My great aim has ever
been to do them good ; and in putting a few facts
and thoughts before them, I shall leave the consi-
deration thereof, and the probable future course, to
themselves, satisfying myself with having humbly
tried to lead them to form a correct judgment.

The corn trade has for the past few weeks been
in a most irregular and exciting state : merchants,
millers, and farmers have been alike equally ignorant
and perplexed : no one appeared to be even toler-
ably acquainted v/ith the actual position of the
trade. It was not till the publication of the Corn
Returns, October 10th, that any great light was
thrown around the question : it then became
evident that our supplies were falhng oft' in a sur-
prising ratio, and the exports nigh to outstripping
the imports. This, of course, could not go on
without producing a great and speedy reaction;
hence the unexampled and unexpected advance
which has taken place in wheat and wheat-flour.

Y/e cannot avoid reiterating for the hundredth
time our extreme sorrov/ that so much ignorant
uncertainty should exist relative to the corn trade.
We are amongst those who think that " Govern-
ment" could have derived earlier information as to
the probable imports, even at this period ; and the
publication of this information would not only have
prevented our exportations, but would, on the con-
trary, have induced importations from the rise in
price here, and, as a necessary consequence, pre-
venting much loss to the early sellers, to be again
repaid with considerable additions to the future
importers, and by which a most variable and spe-
culative trade is kept up, at all times injurious to
the common weal. Nor are v/e at all prepared with
any reasonable data as to our futiu-e supplies. Who
can tell the amount of our own farm produce ? It
was generally thought at the close of harvest that
our wheat crop was an unusually productive one :
it is not thought so nov,\ I could give many in-
stances in proof of this ; but of what value are
individual assertions, however well sustained by
isolated facts, compared with a well-authenticated
knowledge of the produce of the whole kingdom
as ascertained by a well regulated system for the
collection of these facts ? Whj', none whatever.
One district may counter-check the other con-
tinually, and no satisfactory result be obtained.

The fiat has gone forth from the agriculturists of
this country relative to agricultural statistics : they
must and will ultimately have them. 1 am not going
into that question now ; nothing more need or can
be said upon it than has already been said ; it is now
merely a question of time and means. One thing,
however, I will say, and it is highly important too
— namely, that the positions of the different coun-
tries of the world being so peculiar at the present
time, rendering it extremely doubtful relative to
their being able to send any adequate supply for
the British market, it behoves the " Government" to
institute an inquiry as to our actual state and pros-
pects with regard to breadstuff's. It could be done
silently, and without excitement, through the
Boards of Guardians, so as to come to a fair esti-
mate, if not strictly correct; and it could do no
harm, as the country has for some years been pre-
paring for it : it vv'ould have the effect of placing
the corn trade on a better and sounder
footing for the time being, and possibly prevent
much foolish speculation, as also great fluc-
tuations, followed by much individual suffering.
It may be of some service to call more attention to
this part of the question. I will therefore give a
few facts with a view to show our present position.
From the corn returns published in the Gazette up
to Oct. 10th, it may be seen that we imported last
j'ear 505,347 qrs. of wheat and 133,811 cwts.
of wheat flour less than in the preceding year end-
ing Oct. 10th, 1853. The very remarkable fact in
connection v/ith this return is, that at the close of
the September return, the year's recei})ts were in
excess to the amount of 25,534 qrs. of wheat and
399,685 cwts. of wheat flour; so that the deficiency
of import, as compared v.'ith the past year, arises
between the 10th of September and the 10th of
October, and is, as above, 505,347 qrs. of wheat and
138,811 cwts. of wheat flour. This tends much to
show our future prospects ; but, pursuing the re-
turns further, and taking them weekly, we shall
find that in the fourteen weeks ending Oct. IQth,
1854, we imported in wheat and wheat flour, as re-
duced into quarters, 759,674 qrs., but in the corre-
sponding period of 1853 (i. e. fourteen weeks) the
quantity imported amounted to 2,003,184 qrs. ; the
reduction in the fourteen weeks ending Oct. 10th,
1354, is astonishingly great, being no less than
1,243,510 qrs. This in Such a short time, and at a
period in the year when the importations have
usually been on a large scale. It also exceeds one-
foupth of th^ average importations of the past eight;

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

491

years, the years which have elapsed sinco the abo-
lition of protective duties. This is unquestionably
a most telling fact, and ravist soon insure very grave
and serious consideration. If such is the falling
off in the fourteen weeks immediately preceding
Oct. 10th, what may we not look for throughout
the ensuing winter months ?

I will now give a few facts which will tend to
make the probabilities of this falling off still more
apparent. The annual imports of wheat and wheat
flour imported since the abolition of protective
duties have been as follows, and as reduced into
quarters : —

1847..

4,404,757 ors.

185!..

5,330,412

qrs

1848..

3,082,230 ,,

1852..

4,180,338

))

1849..

4,835,280 „

1853..

6,235,860

1850..

4,856,039 „

1854..

5,684,044

))

being an average of 4,833,620 qrs. annually, and
v/hich may therefore be taken as our yearly re-
quirements of wheat and v/heat flour (though the
two last years show a much higher average, i. e.
about 6,000,000 qrs.). To this ' we must add the
annual importation of Indian corn, which now
averages rather more than 1,500,000 qrs., so that
it is very evident that our annual importations of
what is usually termed " bread stuffs " much ex-
ceed 6,000,000 qrs. to make up the deficiency of
our own growth to supply the wants, or for the
consumption of this country.

Our requirements, then, have reached the enor-
mous quantity of 6,000,000 to 7,000,000 qrs. of
bread stuff's, to provide for the yearly consumption
of this country. The great question arises. From
-vhenceis this supply, under existing circumstances,
to come? "Where is it to be found? It can-
not come from those countries with which we are
at war, or those immediately bordering upon the
seat of war, to any great extent. It cannot coma
from France, Belgium, Silesia, and many of the
Germanic States, nor to any extent from Prussia
or the United States. This, however, will best ap-
pear, if I show whence our principal supplies are
usually drawn.

The following summary, taken in round num-
bers, includes the total supplies of all sorts of
grain, and the names of the principal countries from
which they are obtained, and I think will be found
to be a fair return for the past eight years. We
have in grain of all sorts annually, from —

Cira.

Eusbi^ about 1,250,000

Turkey 350,000

Wallachia & Mol- 1

davia J

Egvpt 750,000

Denmark 900,000

Prussia 1,000,000

400,000

Qrs.

Naples about 75,000

France 1,250.000

United States 1,100,000

Belgium 120,000

Hofland 200,000

Hanover 180,000

Hanscatic Towns. . 250,000

Sweden, &c 125,000 Canada 150,000

Austria, &c. .... 125,000 I Other countries .. 775,000

Tot»l 9,000,000

The average importations of all sorts of grain
being about 9,000,000, it will be found that about
3,750,000 qrs. has been in wheat only, which,
together with wheat- flour, will bring the average
im.portation up to 4,800,000 qrs., or nearly 5,000,000
qrs. of wheat, which, for the past two years, it has
greatly exceeded, as being respectively, for 1853,
6,235,860 qrs., and for 1854, .5,684,044 qrs.;
whence, then, is this large importation to be de-
rived, or how is this great deficiency to be provided
for in the present year ? Russia is completely shut
against us. Turkey, owing to the war in her
territory, cannot export much. The United
States have a short crop of wheat, and nearly a
failure of the Indian corn crop, from drought.
Prussia and the Germanic countries will have but
little surplus : all the old stocks having been worked
up, they will require a larger stock at home, and
this is universally the case elsewhere ; so that prices
in most of the world's markets have not only kept
up with our own ; but in several countries they have
exceeded us in price. To what source are we then
to look for aid. The principal countries are the
Canadas, Denmark, Spain, Egypt, Syria, some of
the Italian States, Sweden, and Norwaj% and some
unimportant parts, as Malta, Brazil, Greece, Ionian
Islands, &c. On referring to the figures above
and other returns, we find that the Canadas con-
tribute about 150,000 qrs., Denmark about
900,000 qrs., Spain and Portugal 70,000 qrs.,
Egypt 750,000 qrs., Syria 50,000 qrs., Papal
and ItaUan States about 150,000 qrs., Su-eden and
Norway 100,000 qrs., Greece 3,000 qrs., Brazil
2,000 qrs., Malta 40,000 qrs., Ionian Islands
5,000 qrs., and fi'om other small sources about
40,000 qrs.— total, about 2,260,000 qrs. ; and in
addition to this, we may calculate on receiving from
the United States about 500,000 qrs., Turkish
ProAances about 300,000 qrs., Prussia and Baltic
Ports 500,000 qrs.— total, 3,560,00Q qrs, of grain
of all sorts. I believe this approximates to the true
state of the case. We have, then, 3,560,000 qrs. to
deduct from 9,000,000 qrs., as above; which leaves
a deficiency amounting to 5,440,000 qrs. in our
total average imports ; the proportion of which, in
wheat, will exceed 2,000,000 qrs., to which if we
add wheat-flour, vvhich has borne a relative propor-
tion exceeding a third of the quarters of wheat
imported, or 1,000,000 qrs., we have in v/heat
and wheat-flour alone a deficiency of at least
3,000,000 qrs., which is certainly an important de-
falcation, and demanding out strictest attention and
the most rigid economy in every department con-
nected with the management of breadstuflfs.

I am, hovvever, by no means an alarmist; but it
becomes every man to look his difficulties in
the face, and having, I think, shown what

493

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

is most probably our actual position— i. e,, that we
have to face a deficiciency of imports in " bread-
stufFs" alone amounting to the enormous quantity
of 3,000,000 qrs. — I shall now endeavour to show
what available means we have to meet it ; and in
doing so, I shall confine myself to wheat alone, as
I am desirous to show what is " the prospective
price of wheat," as a guide to the farmer's/Mf?<re
sales.

The number of acres annually sown v/ith wheat
in the United Kingdom is as follows : England,
according to M'Culloch, 3,000,000 acres ; Scotland,
350,000 acres; Ireland, 400,000 acres; and the
total produce he estimates at 13,627,000 qrs. This
estimate, I feel confident, is too low, both in quan-
tity of laud and produce, for this year. Spackman
estimates the produce of the three kingdoms at
22,000,000 qrs.— z. e., England, 18,000,000 qrs. ;
Scotland, 1,750,000 qrs.; and Ireland, 2,250,000
qrs. As a plain man of business, I have, accord-
ing to my means of information, given the subject
my best attention, and in consequence beg to assert
that both are in error, and that the truth lies some-
where between the two estimates. We have fortu-
nately one fact before us — i. e., Irish statistics of
agriculture. In 1853, the number of acres sown
with wheat was 326,896; in 1854, 411,423 acres ;
increase, 84,527 acres. Apply this example to
England and Scotland, and we shall find it give a
large increase in breadth sown. I must say that
I think, on investigation, the estimates I give below
will be found to approach nearer the truth than
either that named above, or any others more re-
cently offered us. I repeat, for the present year, it
is well known that a larger breadth has been sown
with wheat than usual. I therefore estimate the
number of acres and the number of bushels as
below :

Acres. Qrs.

England.. 4,000 000. at 28 bushels, or 31- qrs... 14,000,000

Scotland. . 375,000, at 28 bushels, or 3^ qrs.. , 1,312 500

Ireland.. 411,423, at 24 bushels, or 3 qrs... 1,234,269

Total produce of the United Kingdom. . 16,546,769

I consider Mr. Spackman's estimate far beyond
the truth, and can see no reason for placing it so
high, as all the estimates lately given are based upon
Mr. Couling's report of his survey in 1827 as to the
acreage of the kingdom, and its appropriation as to
crop. Assumuig Mr. M'Culloch's estimate to be a
fair one — i. e., 13,627,000 qrs. — I shall then have
a surplus produce over him amounting to 2,919,769
qrs. Now this I take to be somewhere near the
true state of the ways and means for the future
supply of the country at this time.

I am afraid my manner of stating these matters
is by no means clear ; but, taking into considera-
tion the vast improvements that have been going

on in culture, in the selection of seed, and in the
order or rotation of cropping, and the large extra
breadth of land sown with wheat last season, and
which the farmers found it impossible to sow in the
previous year, owing to the excessive rains, I am
fully justified in giving my estimate as to this year's
produce, and which I believe exceeds that of last
year by something like the quantity named above,
or nearly 3,000,000 qrs., and of an ordinary year
by from 8 to 10 per cent.

I would further say that I see no great reason
for apprehension or alarm. I wish to put the
whole subject fairly forward. We have a good
and abundant harvest of well-grov/n grain — we have
now a scale of prices which will induce speculators
to provide us such imports as ai'e, or may be, made
available for the British market ; and, without this
scale is kept up, their efforts will be in vain. We
have France, Belgium, and some other countries
competing with us in the world's markets, and of
these many of them are shut from us ; others, from
prudential motives on the part of their govern-
ments, forbidden to supply us. These, and causes
like these, cannot fail to keep up prices ; but, on
the other hand, our own almost unexampled har-
vest, our improved potato crop, and the present
surpassing season, by which much food is saved
both in seed and from waste, will tend to prevent
prices running exorbitai^tly high. Without ex-
tending my remarks further (and I am trespassing
far beyond ray accustomed bounds), I would say,
that we may confidently look for a continuance of
prices quite equal to that at present obtained, and
probably they may go a little higher ; but we must
not forget that ours is a favoured country, and if
aught is to be spared from any part of the whole
world, it will find its way here. The price also will
lead to the adoption of other kinds of food, such
as rice, which is selling at a relatively lower price
than wheat, and is now extensively used in Bel-
gium. High prices are not good for the commu-
nity, and are generally the result of wild specula-
tions, partly from ignorance, but generally from
sordid selfishness. My aim has been to show that,
with care, timely economy, and a steady business-
like course, we have no cause to fear the result;
we shall be able to provide in a far greater degree
than usual for the wants of the public, and at a
rate of prices remunerative to ourselves as the
growers, without being unbearably oppressive to
them as the consumers. P. F.

FOOD STATISTICS.— From a recent Parliamentary re-
turn, it appears that in the year 1853 there were imported into
the United Kingdom 56,220 oxen and bulls, 38,328 cows,
30,705 calves, 249,446 sheep, 9,974 lambs, and 12,757 swine.
There were also imported 183,286 cwt. of salted or fresh beef,

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

493

152,731 cwt. of salted or fresh pork,and 190,134 cwt. of bacon.
The average price of beef during the year 1853 was Ss. per
stone for inferior, 3s. 7d. per stone for second class, 4s. Id. for
third class (large prime), and 48. 4^d. for fourth class (Scots),
The average price of mutton was Ss. 8:|d. per stone inferior.
4s. 2|d. second class, 4s. SJd. third class (long coarse-wooUed),
and 53. O^d. fourth class (Southdowns). Lamb averaged 5s.
Vjd. per stone' large hogs 3s. V^d. per stone, and small neat
porkers 43. 6^d. Veal averaged 3s. 9Jd. per stone for coarse,
and 4s. 9|d. small prime. 403,289 cwt. of butter were im-
ported into the United Kingdom in the year, of which 396,759
were for home consumption ; and 396,515 cwt. of cheese were
imported, of which 380,461 were for home consumption.

PRODUCE AND CONSUMPTION OF CORN
IN THE UNITED KINGDOM.

Mr. M'Culloch has given, in the new edition of the Ency-
clopadia Britannica, the following details with respect to the
production and consumption of the different varieties of corn
in the United Kingdom in ordioary years : —

Estimate of the Extent of Land in the United
Kingdom under the principal Descriptions op
Crops in 1850-54; the average Produce per
Acre ; the total Produce ; the Produce under
Deduction of Seed ; and the average total
Value of such Produce.

Crops.

England.

Wheat ........

Barley

Oats and rye . .

Beans and peas .

Potatoes, turnips,

and rape ....

Clover

Fallow

Hops ........

Gardens

A.crea in Crop. « ^ JTotal Produce.

Total

Scotland.

Wheat

Barley

Oats

Beans and peas .

Fallow

Potatoes

Turnips

Clover

Flax

Gardens

Total

Ireland.

Wheat . ,

Barley ,

Oats

Potatoes

Fallow

Flax

Gardens ....

Total

3,000,000

1,000,000

2,000,000

500,000

2,500,000 -1

i,o00,ono J

800,000

50.000

250,000

11,400,000

350,000

450,000

1,200,000

50,000
100,000
200,000-1
450.000 I
450,000 J
5,000

35,000

3,290,000

400,000

320,000

2,200,000

1,400.000

300.000

140,000

25.000

4,785,000

Grand Total 19,475,000

Quarters.
3|

44
33

£7 per acre.

£15 per acre. I
£15 per acre.

£7 per acre.

£15 per acre.
£15 per acre.

£8 per acre.

£15 per acre.
£12 per acre.

Quarters.

11,250,000
5,400,000
9,000,000
1,875,000

27,525,000

1,137,500

1,800,000

6,000,000

150,000

9,087,500

1,200,000

1,120,000

11,000,000

13,320,000
49,932,500

Produce under

Average

Crops.

deduction of

per

Total Value.

Seed.

Quarter.

England.

Quarters.

£ 3.

Wheat

9,642,857

453.

20,696,428 5

Barley

4,628,572

27s.

6,248,572 4

Oats and rye . .

7,714,286

203.

7,714,286 0

Beans and peas .

1,607,143

283.

2,250,000 4

Potatoes, tur- "1

nips, and rape >

—

26,000,000 0

Clover J

Fallow

Hops

—

780 000 0

Gardens

—

3,750,000 0

Total

23,592,858

67,439,286 13

Scotland.

Wheat

947,917

43s.

2,038,021 11

Barley .,

1,500,000

26s.

1,950,000 0

Oats

5,000 000

203.

5,000,000 0

Beans and peas .

125,000

28s.

175,000 0

Fallow

Potatoes .... 1

Turnips .... >

—

7,700,000 0

Clover J

Flax

—

75,000 0

Gardens

525,t00 0

Total

7,572,917

17,463.021 11

Ireland.

Wheat

1,000.000

403.

2,000,000 0

Barley

933,334

243.

1,119,999 12

Oats

9,166,667

20s.

9,166,667 0

Potatoes

—

11,200,000 0

Fallow

Flax

—

2,100.000 0

Gardens

300,000 0

Total

11,100,001

25,886,666 12

Grand Total

42,265,776

£110,788,974 16

Mr. M'Culloch estimates the consumption as follows;
viz. : —

1. Consumed by man: — Qrs. Total Qrs.

Wheat 15,500,000

Oats, rye, and masliu (a mix-
ture of rye and wheat) .... 10,650,000
Barley for malting, food, &c. . . 6,000,000

Beans and peas as meal 700,000

32,850,000

2. Consumed by the lower animals : —

Corn (principally oats used in
the feeding of horses and
other animals, in distillation,
manufactories, &c

16,350,000

Total consumed by man and

the lower animals, &c 49,200,000

It is seen from the former estimate that the corn produced
in the United Kingdom applicable to consumption, amounts

to only Qis. 42,265,770

But to this has to be added —
Foreign corn annually entered for consump-
tion at an average of the seven years ending
with 1852, viz. :—

Wheat and wheat flour Qrs. 4,231,185

Barley 870,786

Oats and oatmeal 1,162 546

Eye 99.510

Peas and beans.. ,. .. 565,759

6,929,786

Total consumption 49,195,556

We believe that these estimates are very nearly accurate ;
but perhaps the breadth of land under wheat, and its pro-
duction, are a little overrated.

494

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

THE WHEAT CROP OF 18 54

The Times laboured incessantly since the termination
of the late harvest to make it appear that the crop of
wheat was so abundant that it would more than com-
pensate the anticipated expenditure of the war, r.nd
would not only pay all the increased taxation, but fill
the pockets of every producer into the bargain ; and such
was the effect of these extravagant prophecies of not only
that, but of similar organs of the press, that a panic
seized the mercantile classes, importation altogether
ceased, and speculation became dormant to such an
extent that wheat suddenly fell from 80s. to 60s. per
qr., and even lower, under the reiterated assertions of
these destructionists of the agricultural community.

Suddenly, however, it was found that the yield was
not so great as was anticipated at home, and the anti-
cipated supplies from abroad had failed altogether ; in-
deed, such had been the effect of these fusillades upon
our prices, that wheat had become cheaper in Mark-lane
than in any other kingdom in Europe, and was eagerly
bought up by French and Belgian agents for exportation.
The merchants, millers, and factors became alarmed,
and prices suddenly recovered the point from which they
had receded — more rapidly than they had fallen in the
first instance. The Times, however, never stops at its
post ; it had determined that wheat should be cheaper in
England than in any other market in the world ; and
true to its purpose, it has from the moment it announced
the Corn Law League as *' a great fact," libelled the agri-
culturistsof this country with the fiercest invective and the
most unremitting abuse ; and true to its purpose, by its
' ' own commissioners' ' and their published statements vili-
fied the landlords and farmers of England, not only in the
counties respectively, but throughout the whole extent
of the land. Not yet content, it still by its machinery
is endeavouring to convince the people of this country
that the supplies of grain of home-growth are so abun-
dant that the whole amount of foreign importation
hitherto annually introduced is more than compensated
by the produce of the late harvest; and notwithstanding
the absence of old stock of grain of the previous year,
and that of foreign supply also, this country " is in a
safer position in regard to its supply of corn than it was
at this time last year."

The latter quotation, allow me to state, is from the
pen of Mr. James Caird, in a letter to the " Editor of the
Times" in the impression of that paper of Friday last.
Whatever weight such a communication may have as com-
ing from such an authority, I must leave the agricul-
tural community to estimate— attached to the Times as
its " commissioner," the farmers of England will easily
discover that his agricultural reputation does not so far
conceal him from their view as to allow them to mistake
the object which he is seeking to attain ; for one who
so deliberately on many occasions has made statements
of such mischievous import arid sarcastic tendency upon
their proceedings, cannot be supposed to entertain any

other feelings than those injurious to their class. As the
Times, however, speaks to the world, and although its
thunder may be little regarded, still with the weak and
credulous, as well as of " a bread-eating community," it
has weight, and its vituperation of the farmers by its
accusing them of endeavouring to raise the price of wheat
by withholding their produce from the market, when
it is notorious that the quantity supplied exceeds that
of former precedents, must have been obvious to every
one who has had opportunities of observing the exces-
sive amount of steam-power applied to the thrashing-
out the last crop of wheat. In the immediate dis-
trict in which I reside upwards of eleven six to eight
horse portable steam-engines have been so constantly
employed, that no opportunity offers of obtaining the
services of one myself, unless by waiting my turn after
ten or tv/elve days from an application ; and I have no
hesitation in asserting that upwards of one-third of the
wheat produce in this large wheat-growing country has
already found its way to market, and has been manufac-
tured into flour. So much in contradiction of this un-
founded assertion.

I will now offer a few remarks upon the letter before
referred to as coming from Mr. Caird. In the first place,
he assumes the average wheat-crop of the kingdom at
thirteen million five hundred quarters. The average
estimate at which I have, in conjunction with many
other writers, put it, is eighteen to twenty millions of
quarters. In this I am corroborated by Mr. Burgess,
the late editor of the Bankers' Circular, and other
distinguished writers upon statistics. But the increased
production by extra cultivation and importation of
guano, and the introduction of artificial manures, gives
twenty millions of quarters as the nearest approximation
to truth ; to this add the average quantity imported at
four million five hundred thousand quarters, it will
give about eight bushels per head as the consumption
of the population of this kingdom and for the manufac-
ture of starch and all other purposes.

It was my intention to substantiate these state-
ments by proof ; but as the time allowed does
not permit me to do so, with your permission I will
return to the subject in your future publications — my
object by the present letter being entirely to disprove
the statements of Mr. Caird, and to show how little
they can be depended upon in almost any of those
matters upon which he attempts to edify the public
mind.

I have no doubt whatever that Mr. Caird's statement
may, as to the final results, be less favourable than mine
own ; but, based as it is upon false data, it becomes
worthless. It so struck me that it was only a duty to
myself and others of my class to deny such state-
ments as most fallacious and untrue ; for, coming from
such an authority as the Times by one of "its own
commisioners," it must be obvious that such a state-

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

495

ment might otherwise carry conviction to those who do
not trouble themselves to look beyond the surface.

I am only surprised that Mr. Caird should not
have considered the subject more closely before he
committed it to press. Assume the average wheat crop
of the kingdom to be, as he states, 13,500,000 qrs.,and
the average annual imports 4,500(000 qrs., it gives
18,000,000 qrs. as the average quantity consumed. The
last census was 21 millions for Great Britain ; this alone,
without any application of wheat beyond that for the
manufacture of flour or exportation, would be less by
3,000,000 of quarters than one quarter per head to
each person, and 7,500,000 quarters less than
the country produces to meet this demand.
Leaving this question, and assuming that we have a full
average crop— and I fearlessly assert, from the inves-

tigations I have made, and the information I have ob-
tained from persons practically engaged in the produc-
tion and disposal of grain, that it is all we can calculate
upon having — it must be recollected that at the com-
mencement of harvest scarcely any old corn re-
mained on hand either of British or foreign production ;
that in fact we had only the present crop to depend
upon. Assuming, therefore, that it is a full average
crop, we shall require 4,500,000 quarters to meet the
average consumption. But take the most liberal view
of the subject, and supposing that, upon Mr. Caird's
statement, we do grow 3,000,000 quarters beyond an
average crop, we shall then require 1,000,000 quarters
to meet the average requirement, by importation, for the
current year only. — I am, sir, your obedient servant,
November 11. Vindex.

CORN VERSUS CATTLE

Under this title we propose glancing at the relative
values of the animal and vegetable kingdoms in con-
nexion with agriculture, principally with the view of
esamining their respective claims upon public support,
and how far these are responded to by the agricultural
interest. At the summer meetings of the Royal Agri-
cultural Society, for instance, and also those of Ireland
and Scotland, it has oftener than once occurred to us
that the claims of the former absorbed almost the whole
attention of the public, while those of the latter were
entirely neglected, or nearly so. At the Smithfield Club
Show, again fast approaching for the present season, we
shall have "mountains of beef, mutton, and pork,"
with gold medals, silver medals, and money prizes in
abundance; but not even an empty "commendation"
for the vegetable kingdom ! While even this itself is
not the most unfavourable view of the question ; for how
many of late have been driven by the force of free-trade
doctrines to the absurd conclusion that England ought
not to grow corn at all, as she]^can import her annual
consumption cheaper than she can grow it herself !

The last tvro crops of 1853 and 1854 have, we hope,
convinced every rational mind of the impropriety of an
exclusive dependence upon foreign corn; for the national
balance as profit and loss gained in favour of the latter
year will amount, at the lowest calculation, to from
^20,000,000 to £30,000,000 on bread-corn alone, even
at ordinary prices, and much more than this should
prices rule high. No doubt the loss last year was
greatly reduced by old stocks on hand ; but where
should we have been both years in the absence of the
English farmer, and with our whole consumption
foreign corn ? With such facts before them, the sup-
porters of even a one-sided free-trade system will not
dream for the future of converting our teeming provinces
into a deer park.

But it may be safely concluded that a greater profit
than this natural result on the last two crops may be
annually obtained by art, for a greater difference already
exists between good and bad management. Were the

individual success of some farmers generally exemplified,
for instance, the result would be an increase of produca
exceeding twenty-five per cent., making every allowance
for diversity of soil, climate, and other circumstances
involved. Now, the annual value of vegetable produce
in the United Kingdom greatly exceeds four times
£30,000,000 or £120,000,000 ; hence the soundness of
our proposition.

Analogous to this has been the increase of the animal
kingdom of late years. During the past half-century,
for example, no one will question the truth of the state-
ment that a very important increase in the weight and
quality of butchei"~meat and dairy produce, has been ob-
tained. In the absence of statistical data, it would be
difiicult to give aii approximate estimate of the actual
amount, but certainly twenty-five per cent, of the pro-
duce of the preceding century rather falls under than
above the mark. In other words, the produce of animal
food has been increased twenty-five per cent, during the
last fifty years — a result which speaks volumes for the
progress we are making in the improvement of our
breeds of cattle, both for the shambles and the pail.

Now it will readily be admitted that our agricultural
societies, with their prizes and medals, have had consider-
able influence on this success, not less by stimulating the
exertions of individual breeders, than by bringing their
successful example under the notice of others, naturally
disposed, it may be, to remain in rustic complacency and
contentment, under systems which had yielded their
forefathers maoy a day's solid satisfaction and happiness,
although now no longer capable of doing so ; thus arous-
ing them from unconscious slumbers to a just sense of
their best interests. Even in Lincolnshire herself, where
the general practice of the county has so long been ex-
emplary, it will not be denied that the meeting of last
summer took more than one practical man by surprise,
startling him into the timely conviction of the expediency,
if not necessity, of joining heart and soul, by some means
or other, in the march of progress. The Royal Agricul-
tural Society, from its itinerent character, is thus fast

496

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

subduing every province from antiquated practices,
farmer annually becoming more and more willing to
take a new and more comprehensive view of things ; in-
deed, the work is no longer one of conquest, for at Lin-
coln, farmers as a body manifested a greater desire to
take the lead than linger behind.

Another, and perhaps still more successful and legiti-
mate means of progress, is to be found in our annual tup
shows and sales of breeding stock — a system established
just a century ago, by Bakewell, on a solid foundation,
and effecting the object it has in view in a twofold man-
ner : -first, by the distribution of improved stock ; and
second, by the collection of farmers together from all
corners of the kingdom, to judge for themselves as to
the management, profit, and adoption of such improved
breeds.

In practice it were difficult to say which of those
latter two means has been the most effective ; for many
would never have rented tups or purchased improved
breeds unless they had first examined their manage-
ment, and thus satisfied themselves as to profit. We
ourselves have always been connected with stock of this
quality, and, looking back over an experience of nearly
half a century, arrive at the conclusion that, without the
latter, the improvement of stock would not have at-
tained its present level by more than the one-half.
But, be this as it may, one thing is plain, that " seeing
is believing " with t;^^ practical man ; and that unless
this maxim is religiously observed, progress in any de-
partment in corn, as in cattle, becomes next to an ab-
solute impossibility.

" Buying a pig in a sack " is a proverb too vrell
known to require more than its mere recital ; and while
it justly condemns the buying, selling, eulogising, or
condemning of a thing, in the absence of the thing itself,
it also, in no less forcible a manner, illustrates the ad-
vantages of personal examination on the part of the
buyer, for such relieves the seller of the principal obli-
gations he otherwise would lie under in the transaction.
There is no doubt a certain class of faults subject to
warranty, but these are exceptions upon the whole ; so
that the farmer who makes a bad bargain under such
circumstances has only himself to blame. The auc-
tioneer may even call a black sheep a white one — a de-
claration which would rather procure for him the
approbation and applause of his audience than its dis-
pleasure ; but it would be otherwise in the absence of
the sheep, were he to make such a statement.

" Similar causes produce similar effects" we are told ;
so that, in accordance with such, we ought also to have
gold medals, silver medals, money-prizes, and com-
mendations of every degree for the best products of the
vegetable kingdom, with annual sales of seed on the
ground where it is cultivated, so as to enable farmers to
examine and judge for themselves. In the selection of
bis own seed, for instance, no practical man would
think of taking it from the field, stack-yard, barn, or
granary at random. Instead of this, the sample is care-
fully examined while growing, harvested and thrashed
by itself. And why should it be otherwise with seed
bought from a neighbour or a distant province, or even

a seedsman ? We have, no doubt, ofccner than once
bought excellent seed from a corn factor, judging from
the quality of the sample only ; but generally speaking
have always bought more willingly and successfully
when either familiar with the grower and his stocks, or
else when an opportunity of examining the growing
crop was afforded — invariably giving a much higher price
at the same time. And we have no doubt the experience
of the majority of our readers will harmonize with our
own.

There can be no question, therefore, as to the sound-
ness and efficiency of what has been suggested ; but at
the same time the vegetable kingdom differs so widely
from the animal, as to give rise to important considera-
tions in the reduction of such a proposition to general
practice, no less on the part of seed-growers and seeds-
men, than on that of buyers and the public, each of
whose interests requires special notice in order to illus-
trate both sides of the question.

On the part of the seed-grower, the first practical
question for solution is. Will it pay ? It is not every
farm that is adapted for growing seed of any kind, while
others may grow special products, as turnip-seeds,
grass-seeds, or potatoes; but even where a suitable soil,
climate, and situation are enjoyed, still the important
problem, will it pay ? must first be solved before any
practical man can safely involve himself in such a
speculation as growing seed for the public obviously
would be.

That farmers so circumstanced ought to be able to grow
seed profitably, there cannot be two opinions, provided
those who are unable thus to grow proper seed for them-
selves would become purchasers, because then the extra
price received would do more than cover the extra expense
of advertising and exhibiting growing crops in the manner
proposed ; but so long as the vast majority of farmers
remain practically ignorant of the benefits to be gained
by a proper change of seeds, sowing their own or any
stuff they can lay hold on for little money, the practice,
we fear, must be attended in the outset with some
degree of risk. This was experienced by Mr. Bakewell
and others in the animal kingdom, but has been sur-
mounted, and would, in all probability, be so in the
vegetable. The facilities which railroads now afford for
travelling, with the practice of thin sowing, are fast
removing many of the greatest barriers which the former
experienced, as farmers are now annually becoming more
and more disposed to look around them, making them-
selves acquainted with the different provinces and
their practices.

The practical question at issue on the part of pur-
chasers is the increase of produce and quality, conse-
quent on a proper change of seed. The question,
strictly speaking, comes home to every farmer in the
kingdom ; and were each to return a practical answer,
we may safely affirm, without fear of contradiction, that
more noise would be heard in the columns of the agri-
cultural press (so to speak) about the advantages of
changing seed than is now heard about ram shows and
sales of improved stock, and a much greater profit
generally realized — great as have been the profits in tb

THE FARMER^S MAGAZINE.

497

animal kingdom ; for the examination of successful ex-
periments would soon pave the way for general practice,
by inducing the most timid and cautious to try similar
ones on a small scale, while the successful results of such
in harvest would invariably carry conviction with them.

At present, the loss sustained from the sowing of bad
seeds is incalculable, merely because farmers will not
take the trouble of making themselves acquainted with
the facts of the case. They unanimously admit — aye,
assert — that good seed is invaluable, not from expe-
rience, but tradition ! — a tradition handed down to them
by their forefathers from the days of the Romans, who
were just as familiar with the facts of the case as they
themselves. They give themselves out for practical
men, who are entirely guided by Experience ; while in
reality they are the greatest theorists of any, shunning
experiments of the kind in question in a manner not easily
reconciled with the best interests. In short, the con-
duct of those who purchase inferior qualities of seed at
the cheap market is about as far from sound and profit-,
able practice as can well be imagined. Experiment
ought to be the motto of every practical man, and not
the theory of his forefathers, in this as ia every other
agricultural enterprise.

The interest of the seedsman, again, would be analo-
gous to that of the grower ; and although he would not
be in a position to exhibit to his customers his stocks
while growing, so as to afford them a knowledge of the
yield per acre, quantity and quality of the straw, &c.,
&c., by personal examination, yet he himself would be
necessitated to make such an examination for them.
There would always be a large class of purchasers, for
example, who, from diffidence in their own judgment,
too great a distance from the peculiar climate and soil
producing the best seed for them, bad health, peculiar
engagements at home, or some such incidental condi-
tions as these, would prefer giving their orders to the
regular trader, who, under such circumstances, and the
working of the practice at issue, would be obliged to
exercise his best skill on their behalf. There would, no
doubt, be left many open backdoors to practise decep-
tion, such as the mixing of old seeds or inferior samples

with fine new purchases ; but transactions of this kind
would always find a timely and salutary check from the
experiments of others in the neighbourhood who had
procured their seed-corn and other seeds direct from
the grower. No seedsman could long abuse the trust
thus confided in him , without smarting for the conse-
quences, under the efficient working of an experimental
system, if we may so call it, such as that proposed.

At present one almost shrinks to make mention of
the many difficulties with which the seed trade is sur-
rounded, for all sorts of trash having a saleable appear-
ance are thrown into the market for little money, and
eagerly purchased on the same terms — and such terms
onhj ; while many even go to a cheaper market still,
such as the ostler's perquisite, the sweepings of hay-
lofts and barns, and the accumulations of old musty
remainders of turnip seeds, &c., left by their neigh-
bours, both of which we have frequently seen bought
and sown !

The interest of the public is that of the purchaser—
the increase in the quantity and quality of produce,
which an improved description of seed would effect.
That a very high national benefit would be gained is
manifest; but our limits will not allow us to estimate
profits of this kind at present beyond the bare mention
that they must exceed several millions annually.

The key to the whole question, it will thus be per-
ceived, is the increase of produce from the best
seed. Where, for example, should I procure seed
wheat, barley, oats, &c., for my plastic clays of Surrey,
so as to procure the greatest return in harvest ? — from
climates east, west, south, or north of my farm ? and
from what descriptions of soil ? How would different
seasons, cropping and management, effect results, &c. ?
These and many similar questions come home to every
farmer in the kingdom, demanding experimental solu-
tion; and it has often occurred to us, we repeat, that
something might successfully be done by means of
medals and prizes at our summer and winter exhibitions,
to stimulate exertions in tlie prosecution of a work of so
much promise to the public generally — to say nothing of
the individual profits involved.

ROYAL AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY OF ENGLAND

A Monthly Council was held at the Society's house
in Hanover-square on Wednesday, the Istof November :
present Mr. Miles (of Leigh Court), M.P., Presi-
dent, in the Chair ; Lord Southampton, Sir John Vil-
liers Shelley, Bart., M.P. ; Sir Watkin Williams Wynn,
Bart., M.P. ; Sir Archibald Keppel Macdonald, Bart. ;
Sir Robert Price, Bart., M.P. ; Mr. Raymond Barker,
Mr. Barnett, Mr. Barthropp , Mr. Cavendish, Colonel
Challoner, Mr. Garrett, Mr. Brandreth Gibbs, Mr.
Fisher Hobbs, Mr. Chandos Wren Hoskyns, Mr.
Jonas, Professor Symonds, and Professor Way.

Finances. — Mr. Raymond Barker, chairman of the
Finance Committee, presented the report on the accounts,
along with the usual quarterly balance-sheet under each

head. The current cash-balance in the hands of the
Bankers was i£'4 71. Mr. Fisher Hobbs having called
the attention of the Council to the amount of unpaid
subscriptions, it was ordered, on the motion of Sir John
Shelley, that lists of all the members in arrear should be
prepared, and suspended in the Council-room.

Lincoln Meeting. — On the recommendation of
the Finance Committee, a vote of thanks was unani-
mously passed to Messrs. Smith, Ellison, and Co., of
the Old Bank, Lincoln, for the accuracy and courtesy
with which they had acted as the local bankers of the
Society during the period of the Lincoln Meeting. Mr.
Raymond Barker, as Steward of Admissions and Receipts
at the Show-yard during the Lincoln Meeting, made a

L L

498

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

very satisfactory report of the operations of that depart-
ment, in which occurs the following passage, bearing
testimony to the admirable conduct of Inspector Teddy,
of the A division of Metropolitan Police, and the men
under his charge, sent to the Lincoln Meeting by the
Commissioners of Police, by direction of Viscount Pal-
merston, on the representation of the Society —

" To the unwearied attention and exertions of Inspector
Teddy, the head of the Police establishment alone, was the
steward indebted for the continuous acd rapid interchange of
cash which afforded all requisite accommodetion to the public,
whib it successfully obviated all grounds for complsiut or de-
lay ; when it is considered that during several portions of the
principal day the influx through the barriers was at the rate
of quite 30 per minute, much credit must be allowed to the
poUce for tlie vigilance and good temper with which they dis-
charged their arduous duties."

On the motion of Mr. Fisher Hobbs, it was ordered
" That a complete balance-sheet of the Country Meeting
of each year shall in future appear in the last Journal of
the Society for the same year." — Mr. Barnett, as senior
steward of cattle at the Lincoln Meeting, made the first
report of that department, which was adopted by the
Council.

Carlisle Meeting. — The agreement entered into
by the Secretary with the authorities of Carlisle was
laid before the Council, who ordered the great seal of
the Society to be affixed to it. — Mr. Fisher Hobbs, as
senior steward of implements for the Carlisle Meeting,
reported that instructions had been duly given to the
Local Committee in reference to the preparation of the
land for the trial of implements next year. Suggestions
from the local committee for special prizes to be offered
for particular breeds of cattle at the Carlisle Meeting
were referred to the special Council on the 7th of De-
cember, when the Stock Prize List for 1855 would be
taken into consideration.

Member of Council. — On the motion of Mr. Ray-
mond Barker, seconded by Mr. Fisher Hobbs, the Earl
of Darnley, of Cobham Park, Kent, was unanimously
elected a member of the Council, to supply the vacancy
occasioned by the decease of Mr. French Burke.

The President reported to the Council the steps he
had taken during the recess, in reference to important
communications received by the Society from Viscount
Palmerston, as well as to various letters addressed to
him from abroad. He also called their attention to the
great mass of evidence which the Earl of Clarendon had
so kindly been the means of obtaining for the Society,
in reference to the occurrence of guano and the nitrates
in tropical regions, and which the President had no
doubt would eventually lead to important results of a
commercial, as well as of an agricultural character. — A
splendid collection of agricultural works, published in
France under the inspection of the minister of that
department, was received by the Council as a present to
the Society from the French Government, and an unani-
mous vote of the best thanks of the Council ordered to
be returned in acknowledgment. — A present of agricul-
tural works was also received through the Smiihsonian
Institute of the United States, from that body and indi-

vidual authors, for which the best thanks of the Council
were ordered. — Miss Banister, of Steyning, transmitted
a large collection of specimens and models, with expla-
nations, connected with Grass cultivation and products,
cottages, &c., which were ordered to lie on the table for
the inspection of the members. — Professor Solly had
leave to exhibit at the Trade Museum, for a certain
period, the Society's collection of German wools, pre-
sented to it by the Mecklenburg growers. — Mr. Farmer,
of West Canada, applied for information on the question
of standard points of excellence in prize cattle. — Mr.
Ruck and Mr. Lawrence transmitted communications on
the subject of selecting judges for Cotswold sheep, which
were ordered to be reserved until the date when the
Council would talce the question of the selection of
judges for the Carlisle meeting into consideration. — The
Ledbury Society addresssd the Council on disputed
"points'* in adjudicating prizes for live stock. — Various
communications were received connected with the sub-
ject of offering foreign threshing-machines for trial in
England without expense to the farmer, placing manure-
steeps and syrups for seed-grain at the disposal of far-
mers for trial, and establishing in this country and in
France large manufactories of fish-offal manure. — Col.
Warrington submitted a claim of reward for his new
guano. — Col. Clinton suggested a prize for a machine
for separating the ears of corn.— The Hull Chamber of
Commerce requested information on the best means of
" treating the refuse of the Hemp-plant, in order to fit
it for the soil again, apart from the usual farm-yard
process." — Mr. Roch presented, for adoption by the
Society, a new form of journalizing farm accounts under
required heads, in the most simple and intelligent
manner. — Adjourned to Dec. 6.

A SUBSTITUTE FOR GUANO, IN ORDER TO CLAIM
THE ROYAL AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY'S PRIZE OF
£1,000. — A new patent substitute for guano, consisting of de-
composed and concentrate sea-weed, is about to be introduced
by Mr. Longmaid, with the view of claiming the prize of
£1,000 offered by the Royal Agricultural Society. The
material is reduced to a powder, and rendered suitable to be
applied by the driU. Many experiments with regard to its
fertilizing powers are said to have been made during the past
year, and the subjoined analysis of a sample has been furnished
by Professor Way. The process is stated to be simple ; the
price is estimated at £5 per ton or under; and it is con-
templated to establish manufactories at various stations on the
coast. Per-centage com-

position of the
Organic matter — dry manure.

S°l"We 48.131 ^ 6592

Insoluble 17.79 J

Sand,&c 3.18

Alumina, with a little peroxide of iron .... .40

Phosphate of lime .74

Sulphate of lime 2.05

Chloride of calcium 1.22

Chloride of magnesium 2.02

Chloride of sodium 5.12

Sulphate of potash. « 5.70

Soda 13.65

100.00

Nitrogen 3.23

Equal to ammonia 3.92

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

499

THE ECONOMY OF FARM BUILDINGS.

The little lady, who being pressed by her gover-
ness to explain what political economy really meant,
replied at length with a sob that " she didn't know,
and she didn't believe that anybody else did," would
find many to sympathise with her hapless condition.
There are certainly few words more difficult to
define, or that at least invite more extended dis-
cussion, than this said economy — be it of whatsoever
kind it may. Every man is almost sure to have
his own peculiar reading of the term. With some
it degenerates into but another name for parsimony,
admitting only the least possible expenditure on
which an existence or a pursuit can be maintained.
Others, again, lean to a more liberal interpretation,
and put economy to its best uses, when it is made
to direct, rather than to forbid, the outlay of our
means.

The members of the London Farmers' Club have
opened their winter session with a few rounds at
this game of Definitions. They circumscribed the
economy of farming, on this occasion, to the eco-
nomy of farm buildings, and without arriving at any
very decided conclusions, the discussion generally
may, we think, be read with advantage. As the in-
troducer of the subject remarked, the theme is by
no means a new one ; but it is at the same time
one of those important matters that can scarcely
be too often considered. Beyond this, it is a fea-
ture of improved agriculture, in which the London
Club is unusually strong. It is just one of those
topics on v/hich the farmerand the agent shouldmeet
to talk over, as one upon which they cannot come to
too clear or too quick an understanding, as to what
aid they have to expect from each other. The more
than mere sprinkling, then, of the representatives
of the landlords, whatever be urged to the con-
trary, may not, after all, be an anomaly, as not
without advantage in the proceedings of a Farmers'
Club.

The London Club, we repeat, has already shown
itself strong in this, the very foundation as it were
of all improved farming. It has long since, and
over and over again, discussed the subject of build-
ings, and always with eflFect. It numbers too,
amongst its members, some whose homesteads are
generally acknowledged as examples for others.
Such, for instance, as those of Mr. George Parsons,
at West Lambrook, in Somersetshire, which were
the object of many an edifying visit ; or again of
Mr. Cooke, at Semer, in Suffolk, so frequently re-
ferred to at the meeting on Monday. Later still we
are told of the admirable range his Grace the Duke

of Bedford has erected for Mr. Thomas, at Lidling-
ton. The working farmer members of the Club
have had the opportunity of seeing something in
practical illustration of the economy of farm-
buildings. It is but fair to add, that the agents
included in the list of members have on many oc-
casions evinced quite as hearty a disposition to
take their share in the good work. Foremost, per-
haps, amongst these stands Mr. Beadel, who two
or three years since read a paper, which speedily
obtained the authority it so well merited. It has
long enjoyed a popularity far beyond the limit of
any one particular set, or Society. Mr. Oakley,
Mr. Cheffins, and others have also done their best
towards the thorough realization of this grand
essential to the better cultivation of the coun-
try. Rarely has the experience of any two classes
been combined with more mutual benefit or satis-
faction.

Unlike, then, the confession of the school-girl, who
ingeniously associated her own ignorance with that
of others, and knew nothing at all about economy,
the members of the Farmers' Club could scarcely
fail to have some previous notion of that particular
branch they came to consider. Without, it will be
seen, confining themselves very strictly to the word
itself, nearly all the speakers were inclined to take
a liberal view of the question. As a literal matter
of pounds, shillings and pence, this might no
doubt have been argued somewhat closer. At the
same time it is difficult, in discussing atopic so
manifestly susceptible of so many different ap-
plications, to go far beyond the general principles
to be advised on. The principle here is patent
enough — the best and most economical plan of
farm-buildings to be recommended to landed pro-
prietors is the erection of good buildings. If they
are not good in design and structure — if they
are not, that is to say, made as suitable as possible
to the advanced practice of agriculture — if they do
not, in a word, encourage this, they are not econo-
mical. It is for this we have to press. There may
be, no doubt, exceptional cases, where landlords
over-build themselves ; but these are very excep-
tional indeed, and are generally to be found on the
home farm, rather than that of the tenant. The
rule, however, is the other way. The want of eco-
nomy in farm premises is, that they are not half
what they should be ; that more outlay must be
made upon them ; and that, as a principle, it is the
duty of the landlord to do this, or to get it done
for him. The true economy of farm buildings is

L L 2

soo

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

such buildings as the farmer requires ; and we think
that the Farmers' Club (we will not say in this
present discussion alone), is strong enough to define
in what this economy consists.

it will be found that even on this occasion the
question of expense was by no means passed over,
but that the most modern systems of housing may
be tried on the most moderate terms. Take, for
example, Mr. Wood's plan for box-feeding. We
should prefer, however, to consider buildings rather
a permanent than a temporary improvement, and

so not to be devoted to a bonfire, to celebrate the
expiration of a term. Acting on a custom which
it strikes us might occasionally be as honoured in
the breach as the observance, the meeting closed
with the passing of a resolution — perhaps as good
as it could be well arrived at, considering " the
different circumstances of requirements, &c." It
is, however, to the discussion itself we would refer
for information, which has all the authority of
experience and judgment to recommend its perusal
by both landlord and tenant.

LONDON, OR CENTRAL FARMERS' CLUB.

' THE BEST AND MOST ECONOMICAL PLAN OF FARM BUILDINGS THAT CAN BE EECOMMENDED

TO LANDED PROPRIETORS."

The first monthly meeting of the Club, after the usual
autumnal recess, was held on Monday evening, Nov. 6,
at the Club-House, New Bridge-street, Blackfriars; Mr.
B. Baker in the chair. The subject for discussion vras,
" The best and most economical plan of farm buildings,
that can be recommended to landed proprietors ; " this
having- been substituted for another question which had
been announced in the programme of the year, for intro-
duction on this occasion, by the late Mr. Cheetham.
The present subject was introduced by Mr. Bullock
Webster, of Malvern.

The Chairman, in opening the proceedings, said he
would take that opportunity of expressing his sense of
the great loss which the Club had sustained by the death
of so valuable a member as the late Mr. Cheetham
(Hear, hear). Their lamented friend had prepared a
subject on that evening ; he was unfortunately no more,
and another subject had been substituted for it, which
would be introduced by Mr. Webster. The subject
about to be brought forward was one which had en-
gaged a large amount of public attention. The con-
struction of farm homestalls in the most economical and
beneficial manner was a question of great interest to
agriculturists, and especially to tenant farmers ; and he
should now leave the subject in the hands of Mr. Web-
ster, with the full conviction that he would do it ample
justice. He regretted to say that Mr. Pain, their ex-
cellent chairman for the year, who would under other
circumstances have presided, was detained at home by -a
family calamity,

Mr. Websteb, who exhibited a model to illustrate
certain portions of his address, spoke as follows : —
Mr. Chairman and Gentlemen, the subject pro-
posed for this evening's discussion is not new, but one
that has been introduced both here and in the pages
of the Journal of the Royal Agricultural Society,
from time to time, with more or less of success, but on
the whole in a manner which does infinite credit to the
two societies which I may describe as the nursing
parents of agriculture ; indeed, so much has been said
and written on this subject, and so well, that it may ap-

pear at first sight that nothing is left to be treated of
or desired. And such, in fact, might be the case, if we
had only to consider the subject as applicable to large
estates, and large farms ; for we have in print, in the
Journal of the Royal Agricultural Society, and in that
of the Highland Society, elaborate and detailed de-
scriptions of farm buildings of high architectural cha-
racter, and in most counties specimens of the same,
which speak highly for the spirit, energy, and per-
severance of English agriculturists. But, in the
very excess of our resources, as at present deve-
loped, lies our difficulty — that of choosing between
so many conflicting plans. If a landed proprietor
be applied to, at present, to erect a farmery, he has no
alternative but to choose from one of these, or rush into
the uncertain expense of surveys and plans for himself,
this first item in the catalogue being sufficient to deter
many smaller proprietors from entering into it at all ;
and differences of opinion between landlord and tenant,
as to what should be the amount of outlay in cases which
are most usual, where the tenant has to pay either a
per-centage or an increased rent, militate very much
against that increased accommodation on smallholdings,
which, more than anything besides, would place our
general farming on a fair footing. Assuming, then,
that we may safely leave the large landed pro-
prietor and the amateur to such a choice as I have
before alluded to, there does appear to me to be a
blank which it is the peculiar province of this associa-
tion, as the nursing parent of the working farmer, to fill
up ; I allude to the want of some plain and inexpensive
plan of buildings, which shall be, as nearly as possible,
generally applicable to the wants of our farming com-
munity. My present object and desire, in opening this
discussion, is to elicit some such plan, founded on ones
general principle, on this subject, which, should we be
fortunate enough to agree upon it, may go forth as the
recommendation of this association of practical men, and
exercise, as I have no doubt it will, a very beneficial
influence by showing, both to landlord and tenant, that
the expense of the erection of farm buildings may be re-

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

501

duced to a certainty, and that whilst economy
is studied, efficiency may be insured ; that there
is approved ground, on which they may meet,
without the one being thought to ask too much,
or the other to grant too little ; and a scale of
adjustment by which the interest of both may be most
fully consulted. Confining myself, then, strictly to the
terms of the discussion — " the best and most economi-
cal plan of farm buildings that can be recommended io
landed proprietors " — I will not enter into the merits
of any of the various systems of farming and modes of
management, but, taking them as I find them, endea-
vour to show that there is a plan of farm buildings
which may be applied to the most approved of these
systems — a plan which, in the plainest mode of carrying
it out, is as inexpensive as possible, and which is yet
capable of elaboration to a very considerable extent, all
of which will be best understood through the models.
After having visited nearly all the best farm buildings in
England, Ireland, and Scotland, and noted the require-
ments of farmers in different localities, I have come to
the conclusion that partially closed sheds, 18 feet wide
in the clear, and not less than 8 feet in height of walls,
are capable of being made available for all the purposes,
except that of the barn, for which farm buildings are
required under the various systems of farming now pur-
sued.— [Mr. Webster here referred to his models in ex-
planation of his views.] — Take, for instance, model
No. 1, and suppose it required for milch cows, fatting
stock, or young cattle. You have a space of 3 feet for
the feeding passage, 2 feet for the feeding trough, 6 feet
for the animal, 1 foot for the drain, and a 6 -feet passage
behind, with say 4 feet in width for each animal, as the
case may be. Again, should Mr. Warnes' system of
box- feeding be pursued, this arrangement is equally well
adapted to it, the only difference being in the interior
fittings. The same holds good if Mr. Mechi's system
of gratings for sheep be pursued ; and in this case the
interior fittings might be moveable, to allow of the con-
version of this room for other purposes when not
wanted for sheep. In fact, in most cases the interior
fittings should be moveable, for the sake of convenience.
For stabling, you have but to partition off 6 feet for
each horse, or, what might be better, to take in 24 feet
of shed; and, making your stables crossways, get 6 feet
for each of four horses, and a good harness room across
the end. For pigsties the plan is equally applicable,
through a different arrangement of the fittings. And it
will easily be understood that portions of these sheds
partitioned off, or erections of the same dimensions, will
answer well for carpenters' and blacksmiths' shops,
straw and root houses, gig-house for bailiff, &c. ; whilst
for shelter for young cattle in the straw-yard the
interior wall would be done away with, and posts sub-
stituted ; and for carts and implements posts substituted
in the same manner for the outward wall. 1 will not
attempt to lay down any general rule as to the mode of
arranging these eighteen-feet sheds, as it ought to de-
pend in a great measure upon situation, kind of stock
kept, and various local circumstances ; but where these
make it desirable, I think it will be found practically
that three or four eighteen-feet sheds placed together '

will form as convenient and economical a covered home-
stall as any other kind of erection. One or two re-
marks, however, I may be allowed to make, which,
though trite here, may not be inopportune elsewhere.
The square or oblong form is nearly always advantage-
ous. Straw, hay, and roots should be near the cattle,
the cart and implement shed near the stable, the pig-
gery near the dairy and boiling-house, the cow-house
near the dairy ; and there should be but one entrance,
which should be near the bailiff's cottage or the farm-
house, so that persons going to and fro may be seen.
But, though the exact form of the homestead may be a
matter of indifference, or may depend on circumstances,
the question as to covered or open homesteads cannot, I
take it, be looked upon in that light ; for whether we
consider the comfort of the animals, and therein their
condition for fatting faster and cheaper, or the greater
value of unwashed manure, we must, I think, dis-
card in a great measure the idea of the open home-
stead. For my own part, I decidedly object to covered
homesteads open at the sides, as precluding the proper
regulation of the temperature. Any one who has stood
under our open railway stations on a cold day may have
experienced some of the sensations to which cattle
are subject under these intended-to -he-comiorteihle
home-stalls. As the arrangement of the homestead
may vary according to circumstances, so also may
the materials of which it is composed. Brick or stone
will do equally well for the walls, and may be used ac-
cording to the custom of the neigbbouihood. In Nor-
folk clay-lumps might be substituted ; and in districts
where there are copper and iron works we shall soon have
a valuable building material mads from the slagg, which,
it is expected, will be brought to such perfection that,
in addition to its substitution for brick or stone, it will
probably be worked thin enough to supersede slate for
roofing. In other districts the roofing may be of slates,
or the improved kind of tiles, which latter are warmer
in winter and cooler in summer ; but I would not re-
commend the plan of a hollow brick roof, in conse-
quence of the difficulty which there is at present in
making it waterproof : though no doubt we shall see
improvements in this also. In some districts the iron
roofing may be more desirable. Again, the timber may
be either of foreign or of home growth ; and here I wish
it to be particularly noticed, that one of the greatest
advantages to the landlord of establishing this eighteen-
feet system of building would be this — that in fell-
ing and sawing his timber directions might be
given that anything which would cut into rafters
wall plates, &c., say for 18 feet sheds, should be put on
one side, and always be ready for the use of the farms on
the estate. The saving here effected will be obvious to
every one. For floorings for the sheds, I doubt if any-
thing can be found te answer better than hard bricks ;
I am now using some — there is a specimen on the table
— which are as hard as stone, perfectly impervious to
moisture, and so moulded as to prevent the animals from
slipping upon them. There are many other matters of
detail, which I do not think it necessary to enter into on
this occasion ; the main point now, as I conceive, being
to decide on some mode of building, to be recommended

502

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

to landlords and tenants generally : the details will
easily be filled up. I have, however, thought it might
be desirable to give a rough estimate of the cost of 18
feet sheds, as far as the shell, i.e. the walls, and roofing ;
and 1 caused one to be prepared, showing what would
be the cost for 100 feet of shed at the present price of
limber, slates, and bricks in the London market ; but,
upon going more fully into the matter, and getting esti-
mates for tiles, slates, and iron-roofs, in various locali-
ties, I find that with walls of bricks and stone, if you
take any agricultural district, the expenses per foot in
length of these sheds, including windows and doors,
will not exceed twenty-five shillings per foot. In most
places it will not be more than 20s., and where stone or
bricks are founi for the walls and rough timber for
other purposes, it will be only from 123. to 14s.
In addition, I have only to notice the barn ; and as
far as my experience goes, I would never build one more
than sufficiently large to hold one rick of the size usually
made in the locality, with space for the barn-machinery
and straw. This may be placed at the end or
centre of the sheds, as seems best. Thus it would
appear, that we have in these 18 feet sheds a
plan of farm buildings adapted for the improved
systems of farming of the present day ; equally good for
any other that may be adopted, whether on a large or
small scale ; capable of expansion to any extent ; easily
constructed from the various materials to be found in
different localities ; as inexpensive as possible, in a plain
form, and yet capable of great ornament and finish ;
above all, a plan which if approved by this Club and
adopted would do more to facilitate the erection of pro-
per homesteads than anything which has yet occurred,
by reducing the hitherto uncertain cost to a certainty,
and establishing approved ground, on which both land-
lord and tenant might meet. It should be under-
stood that if 25 more beasts were kept 100 feet more
shedding would be required, costing ^£'100, if 4 more
liorses, thej 24 feet more shedding, and so on ; thus
leaving no doubt on the score of requirement and ex-
pense, the uncertainty of which has, I believe, hitherto
deterred hundreds of well-meaning and liberal-minded
landlords from building and rebuilding on their estates.
With these observations, I will now leave the subject
in the hands of the Club, believing that most of the
members will agree with me that it is high time, that
something should be done by way of advice and en-
couragement, to get rid of those straggling, unthrifty,
and unsightly farm buildings, which are a disgrace to
the age in which we live (cheers).

Mr. Mechi thought there ought to be some esta-
blished principles of action in regard to the construction
of farm buildings. He agreed with Mr. Webster, that
it must be laid down as a rule that the cattle on the farm
should be sheltered, and that open yards like those which
had hitherto prevailed could no longer be tolerated, as
ihey were evidently unprofitable. One suggestion which
he would venture to make was, that all farm buildings
should have a steam engine, fixed or moveable, in con-
nection with them. The present tendency was, he
thought, rather to give up portable engines, and to sub-
stitute for them fixed ones, as being the most economical.

Then came the question, whether the manure was to be
removed daily, or to remain under the animals in covered
yards, straw being added. He believed the latter prac-
tice to be sound, provided there were sufficient ventila-
tion. As regarded the health of animals, he believed
the same principles applied to animals that applied to
human beings. He believed it to be quite possible to
guard against such mischievous influences. It was the
mischief which arose from bad ventilation that led
farmers in Essex to keep their horses in open yards j
and it was well known that where sheds and open yards
v/ere combined, there was scarcely any doctor's bill.
Ventilation was a point in which he felt very great
interest, as he sold off his farm annually meat to the
value of £2,600. His losses of late had been little more
than nominal, and this he attributed to the circamstance
that there was ample ventilation. As regarded the best
method of securing ventilation, he must remark that he
thought ventilation ought to be obtained from the bottom
rather than the top of a building. He would tell them
why he was of that opinion : in his sheds, the floors of
which were boarded, he had on a level with the ground a
number of six-inch pipes, placed within nine inches or a
foot from the floor ; and it was a singular fact, that
while there were large openings above, the smell issued
from the lower far more than from the upper part of the
building. The inference was quite unmistakeable ; and
he considered it, therefore, highly important that in
stables and cattle sheds, especially such as were made of
brick, and therefore were impervious to the air,
an opening should be made below as well as above,
in order that the circulation of air might be complete.
Another point for consideration was the question of the
construction of boarded floors as part of an improved
system of farm buildings. He confessed that he had al-
ways entertained a very great dislike to boarded floors
as far as comfort and appearance were concerned ; but
after eight years' experience, and making every allowance
for the disadvantages which attended that system as well as
every other, he thought the balance was decidedly in favour
of boarded floors (Hear, hear). He could assure them,
from his own experience, that if they divided a lot of
bullocks, keeping one-half on boards and the other half
on straw, the butcher, when he came to make his selec-
tion, would go first to the bullocks^on the boards. His
butcher had remarked to him that day tljat he should
always give the preference to sheep fed on boards, as the
mutton was of a superior quality. A friend of his, who
had been obliged to keep some animals on straw instead
of boarded floors, said bis butcher had complained
that the meat was not so good as under the latter system.
As regarded both sheep and pigs, he (Mr. Mechi) was
fully convinced that boarded floors were the best. When
he put down his boarded floors, he certainly did not
do so with reference to irrigation ; but having com-
menced irrigating, he found that he would have been
obliged to adopt boarded floors if he had not done so
previously, because the manure which fell to-day was,
under the boarded system, washed out to-morrow and
distributed over the land, so as to enter deeply into the
growth of plants. He maintained that upon heavy clay
lands, if they kept a large quantity of stock, it was

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

503

absolutely necessary that there should be a good cover-
ing for the animals during the long winter nights, and that
the providing of adequate shelter would repay both land-
lord and tenant. They all knew that, in unfavourable
weather, sheep which were exposed to its influence
made no mutton, however much they might consume
(Hear, hear). When they were out, with nothing
but wet clay to lie upon, all the carbon of the food
went to replace the heat which had been lost through
this state of the weather. He agreed with Mr. Web-
ster, that barns should not be used for the future as
they had been. In his opinion they should be used
chiefly to keep a certain quantity of straw in a dry state,
to be cut up as food for animals. He was glad to per-
ceive that they were rapidly approaching a period when
the system of cutting up food for animals was likely to
be almost universally adopted ; and if the great bulk of
the straw were consumed together with cake and roots,
it would, he thought, be found a most valuable addi-
tion to the feeding powers of the farm (Hear, hear).
With regard to the amount per acre which it was neces-
sary to have invested in farm buildings, he
thought the evidence on the subject was to the effect
that for the general purjjoses of farming, about five
pounds per acre would sufiice for the purpose. There
might, indeed, be some advance on that amount, now that
the cost of labour and materials was so greatly increased ;
but a great deal woald of course depend on the peculiar
circumstances of different localities.

Mr. Nesbit agreed with Mr. Meehi, that ventilation
was one of the most important points that farmers had
to consider with reference to the welfare of cattle.

Mr. Wood did not entirely concur in Mr. Webster's
theory as to an eighteen-feet building comprising all
that was necessary for the accommodation and welfare
of cattle, but fully agreed with Mr. Mechi, that ventila-
tion had a great deal to do with the matter. After a
good deal of experience and observation, he was of
opinion that Mr. Warnes' plan of feeding cattle was the
best that had been devised. For his own part, however,
he did not see the advantage of putting up smart build-
ings. He had himself begun by making an excavation
of about two feet, and then sticking posts in the ground.
He afterwards employed a carpenter at 2s. a- day (Oh,
oh!), after which he got a few rails, and put on the
plates and the roof ; and when he had tied the whole
strongly together he found that it answered his purpose
just as well as though he had gone more expensively
to work (laughter). He could build boxes to any
extent for about six or iseven pounds each. They
would last for a fourteen years' lease, and the total
cost was not more than the interest of the money
laid out in constructing expensive buildings ; while at
the end of the fourteen years he would be in a position
to set fire to the buildings and erect others, without
being more out of pocket than those who built a box at
a cost of £15, which was to last for ever (laughter).
He had, too, the advantage of good ventilation, through
not putting up brick walls. On one occasion, indeed,
he did erect a four-inch brick wall ; but he found that
the animals kept inside were not so healthy as they
otherwise would have been. There was not that escape

of effluvia which he considered necessary to keep them
in good condition. His plan was to put up bushes, and
there could be no more complete ventilation than these
aff'orded (Hear, hear). It was a well-known axiom in
Sussex, that if a gust of wind once got into a bush-faggot,
it never came out again (laughter). This was, in fact,
a most wholesome system of ventilation, and, leaving
expense out of the question, he considered the kmd of
building which he had just described preferable to the
most substantial one that could be erected. He had
twenty bullocks in boxes of that description during the
whole of last summer. If the box system was to be
carried out they must have ventilation, and m no other
way could they get such perfect ventilation as was se-
cured by putting up bushes. As regarded expense, they
were aware that though surveyors and clever men might
make what appeared reasonable estimates for buildings,
there were often many things left out of their calcula-
tion, as those who had to pay discovered to their cost.
There were, for instance, the charges for making shoots
and roads, and for providing sheds for horses, carriages,
and so on ; with reference to which there was perhaps no
more convenient plan than that of having a shed, or a
number of sheds, 18 feet in the clear. He did not ap-
prove of putting sheep in sheds : he had tried it, and
found that it did not answer. He himself farmed in the
Weald of Sussex, seven miles from Brighton. The great
advantage of feeding sheep on the land, instead of under
the cover, was that the manure was left where it was re-
quired, and the expense of carrying it was avoided. As
to the flockfarmers of Hampshire and Wiltshire housing
all their sheep, it would be useless to attempt it. He
thought it desirable that, the buildings which already
existed on farms should as far as possible be turned
to account (Hear, hear). He had endeavoured to turn
his own to account by putting shoots round them. It
was doubtful whether in many cases in which large build-
ings were erected the tenants would be able to pay the
interest of the money expended. (Hear, hear). As to
barns, it was to be remembered that farmers were now
nearly all thrashing with steam-engines, and he believed
that practice would become still more extensive, and that
barns would therefore be less needed for thrashing pur-
poses. The system of carrying to barns would, he
thought, soon be almost discontinued.

Mr. Trethewy could not help expressing his sur-
prise and disappointment at the tone which the discussion
had taken. To him they appeared to have been dis-
cussing anything but the subject before them. They
had been talking of ventilation, and of the relative
merits of feeding cattle under sheds and in the open
air, the subject on the card being " the best and most
economical plan of farm buildings that can be recom-
mended to landed proprietors." (Hear, hear). It
would have been more satisfactory if Mr, Webster had
given them some idea of the total expense of suCh a
building as that of which he exhibited a model. He
had spoken, indeed, of a pound or five-and-twenty
shillings per foot ; but there were a number of sheds
combined in the model, and he (Mr. Trethewy) would
like to know the entire cost of the structure. What
were its dimensions '

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

Mr. Webster said the shed which he recommended
for general adoption was one 1 8 feet in the clear ; as
to the expense, 100 feet would cost £100.

Mr. Trethewy would suppose the case of a
farm of 300 acres. Would Mr. Webster be good
enough to state what area of buildings would be required
in that case ?

Mr. Webster could only repeat that sheds 18 feet in
the clear would answer every purpose.

A desultory discussion ensued with regard to the
model, in which it was elicited that it represented a set
of farm buildings built by Mr. Webster, in Hertfordshire,
for a gentleman who had an income of about £"10,000 a
year ; Mr. Webster stating that he had no wish to bind
any one to follow that particular model, and repeating
several times that his sole object was to get the Club to
express its approval of sheds 18 feet in the clear. He
further stated that, under his plan, the accommodation
for a bullock would cost £4, and that for a horse about
£6, and that he contemplated the covering being of slate
or tiles, according to the nature of the locality.

Mr. Trethewy said he perceived that Mr. Webster's
model allowed only one barn. He (Mr. Trethewy) was
no advocate for having a great deal of barn space, but
he thought that one single barn in the case of a farm of
two or three hundred acres would not be sufficient
(Hear, hear). Again, as regarded height, he thought
that the lowest elevation of farm buildings should be 8
feet. He entirely agreed to the adaptation or renova-
tion, as it were, of old buildings, and thought that in
many cases it would be much more desirable, and much
easier, to take advantage of existing buildings, and to
turn them to account in the best manner practicable,
rather than to erect new homesteads. In conclusion, he
could not help reiterating his doubts as to whether the
accommodation spoken of by Mr. Webster could be pro-
vided for the sum stated.

Mr. Cheffins wished to confirm the statement
of Mr. Webster, that sheds 18 feet in the clear, with
slate or tile roofs, might be put up in almost any part
of England at a cost of from 20s. to 25s. per foot ;
and, from his experience in different parts of the coun-
try, he was convinced that sheds of that description
would prove very efficient farm buildings. With regard
to the question of the comparative eligibility of different
systems, he believed it was impossible to lay down any
general rule ; every district might require peculiar ar-
rangements.

Mr. Sidney had had an opportunity lately of
seeing various farm building in three or four counties
in England, and his conviction was that it was abso-
lutely necessary to consider well how capital might be
invested in future with the greatest advantage to agri-
culture. In Kent, Hertfordshire, and Surrey he had
seen the most miserable buildings that could be con-
ceived—buildings which were not, like those mentioned
by Mr. Wood, even suited to the purposes of agricul-
ture. There was also another class of buildings which did
perhaps as much harm in another way. A landlord who
knew little about the business of farming sent for an
architect who knew less ; and the result was, that a
building soon rose from the ground, which was quite a

Palatial affair, and which the landlord afterwards con-
sidered to form a very good excuse for his never doing
anything. Happening to be on the estate of a member
of the present Administration, he there met with an
architect who was erecting a beautiful Gothic edifice, with
very beautiful cow-houses and other appurtenances. He
asked what kind of farm there was going to be ? The be-
lief was that it was to be a dairy-farm. He then asked
how much the farm buildings were to cost, and it appeared
the amount could not be stated within a thousand pounds.
In short, so far as he could judge, no one concerned had
any idea with regard to this building beyond that of
raising a structure which would be pretty and ornamental.
There were at the present moment a vast number of
both landlords and farmers who were really anxious to
do what was right, and were waiting to be told how
to do it. At present they were, for the most part, in
the hands of theorists who led them astray, or of
ingenious lawyers who appeared to think themselves en-
titled to the proceeds of the largest part of the estate.

Mr. Oakley felt there was nothing so costly to the
landlord as the reparation or renovation of old buildings
and the erection of new ones, and at the same time nothing
so beneficial to the tenant as the having suitable places to
shelter and feed his animals. He had had a great deal to
do of late years with the alteration of old buildings, so far
as they were available, and the erection of new ones
where it was necessary, and for that purpose had been
entrusted with the spending of a great deal of other
people's money. As most of them were aware, he had
adopted the plan of Mr. Beadel for the erection of
covered homesteads. The idea of doing so first
came into his mind through his intercourse with
friends in the Weald of Sussex, who discovered in
their box-feeding, that the manure thus obtained,
which they applied in their hop-cultivation, was much
more beneficial than manure which the water of heaven
had been falling upon. His object had been to keep all
the animals covered, under one roof, while at the same
time he made due provision for ventilation. As the
discussion of that evening turned upon the question of
economy in relation to farm buildings, he wished to
remark that his experience led him to this conclusion —
that, taking the price of timber at what it was in '51
and '52, in the case of a farm of 300 acres of mixed
land, such land as abounded in Herefordshire and
Worcestershire, suitable farm buildings might be erected
for a thousand guineas, which was as nearly as possible
£3 10s. per acre. His views on the subject were pub-
lished in the Journal of the Royal Agricultural Society
of last Christmas. He had entertained a hope that Mr.
Webster would go more minutely than he had done into
the question of costs, especially as the question for dis-
cussion was, What was the most economical plan of farm
buildings that could be recommended to landed proprie-
tors ? As regarded the species of building he himself
had mentioned, he would observe that one of the best
farmers in the country, a practical man farming his own
land, and who looked at pounds, shillings, and pence
as much as any one with whom he was acquainted, hav-
ing had one such set of buildings'erected , was so satisfied
with the result that he had ordered another set, which

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505

was now being goae on with. He had forgot to mention
that the thousand guineas included the erection of a barn.
The Chairman wished to make one or two ob-
servations on what had passed that evening. Mr.
Cook, of Semer, Suffolk, had some very excellent
covered farm buildings, and was, he believed, the first
person who erected such buildings in this country to any
considerable extent. He proceeded in the most econo-
mical manner, and his buildings were better adapted to
the purpose than any others which he (Mr. Baker) had
seen. It happened that in all the buildings of this de-
scription which he had visited there was some defect.
Some were built too high ; and he had himself observed
a driving wind and rain beating across half the building ;
others were too low, and there was not that amount of
ventilation which was requisite for the health of the
animals. They must always take nature for their guide.
All the lower animals were destined to live in the open
air, and it was only through the assistance of man that
they could obtain shelter in severe weather. The grand
point was so to shelter animals at particular seasons as to
secure the best quality of food. With this view build-
ings had been contrived, which to a great extent met the
necessities of the case, and he hoped to see their number
increased. The question was a very important one
in relation to manure. Mr. Mechi had specially
directed his attention to that subject. He was very
glad to find their friend becoming more and more
practical. (Hear, hear.) He thought that in some
respects he had shown himself more practical than some
of the other speakers ; it was matter for congratulation
to find that in all cases where science studied practice or
practice availed itself of science, mutual benefit was the
result. (Hear, hear.) If Mr. Mechi had spoken of
the effluvia which issued from the pipes in his building,
he (Mr. Baker) must observe that a current of air in a
building was almost as objectionable as air which re-
mained heated, because it rendered animals liable to take
cold. On this account, it was, in his opinion, desirable
that in every covered yard there should be arches to
admit the air directly from below to the open spaces
where the cattle were kept ; and as the air thus admitted
would ascend, there should be a shaft in the upper part
of the building for its emission. As to the question on
the card, namely, "The best and economical plan of
farm-buildings," he would observe that it was a question
which could never be determined except with reference
to the special circumstances of different localities, and
the facilities which they afforded for building. (Hear,
hear.) For example, he had visited farms in Gloucester-
shire, where the very stones which were removed to get
the foundation were used to erect the building : he had
been upon other farms again where there was sufficient
wood for that purpose. On most farms there were al.
ready some buildings ; and the great point was how they
could be best adapted for the use of the tenant. Mr.
Cook, of Semer, had made nearly all the buildings al-
ready erected serve for sides to his covered yards, and
he would recommend those persons who wished to im-
prove their farm-buildings to go and inspect those of
Mr. Cook. On a considerable farm in Essex — a farm
of four or five hundred acres — of which he was en-

trusted with the management, the buildings were not
long since all burnt down. They were insured for
£1,000 ; and the owner of the farm having placed that
amount in his hands, requested him to erect with it such
farm -buildings as were required, telling him at the same
time that he should not pay any more. With that sum
he (Mr. Baker) erected an excellent homestead. The
sheds were 160 feet in length and 40 feet in width, and
included two large barns, a large building for a steam-
engine, and ample accommodation for cattle and horses ;
while the height in front was seven feet clear. He took
every precaution to have the work done well, and
believed the sheds were well adapted to their several
purposes. What he would recommend to landed pro-
prietors who were desirous of improving their farm-
buildings was, that they should take the advice of some
person who was competent to give advice, and to point
out to them the best method, whether of converting
buildings which already existed, or of setting about the
erection of new buildings, and not to proceed without
knowing either what was required or what expense was
likely to be incurred.

Mr. B. Webster having replied, the following reso-
lution, on the motion of Mr. Mechi, seconded by Mr.
Trethewy, was adopted : —

" This Club is of opinion that covered homestalls are
strongly to be recommended, whenever they can be introduced
with advantage ; but it is further of opinion that no settled
plan of farm buildings can be laid down, as different circum-
stances of obtaining materials, adaptation of present buildings,
and the actual requirements of the farm, must at all times call
for a different application."

The proceedings terminated with votes of thanks to
Mr. Webster for his paper, and to Mr. Baker as Chair-
man of the meeting.

CORN STATISTICS IN FRANCE.— We read in the
Siecle: — "According to the latest statistical returns, the
crops of every kind of corn in an average year in France now
amount to about 180,000,000 of hectolitres. In wheat our
country produces 60,000,000 of hectolitres ; rye 26,000,000 ;
barley 19,000,000 ; meliel (a mixture of wheat and rye),
11,500,000; oats 46,000,000 ; buckwheat, 8,000,000; maize
and millet 7,000,000 ; small grain, pulse &c,, 2,500,000. The
crop of wheat is, therefore, in the proportion of 60 to 180 ;
that of oats 30 to 180 ; and that of rye 23 to ISO ; that is to
say, these three descriptions of corn, compared with all the
others, are in the proportion of 103 to 77 only. This quantity of
130,000,000 of hectolitres of corn is not all consumed ; deducting
a seventh part, or 25,700,000 hectolitres, for seed, there remain
154,300,000 for the general consumption. As, however, oats,
the net production of which is 39,250,000 hectolitres, cannot
be reckoned as human food, we find that the quantity remain-
ing for the food of the people is 115,050,000 hectolitres. If
we now take the different crops by weight, which is the best
manner of estimating the nutritive value of each, it may be
said that the average weight of wheat is 75 kilogrammes per
hectolitre, that of rye 65 kilogrammes, barley 60 kilogrammes,
7neliel 70 kilogrammes, buckwheat 60 kilogrammes, maize
78 kilogrammes, and dry pulse 80 kilogrammes. It fol-
lows, therefore, from these bases, that with 51,500,000 hec-
tolitres of wheat, weighing 3 milliards of kilogrammes.

£06

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

and the other quantities of corn in proportion, we have a
total weight of 8,046,800,000 kilogrammes of com fit for
the consumption of man. It has been calculated that on
an average, including women, children, and old people, it
requires 22C kilogrammes of corn per year for the food of
one person. This would therefore be for France, where the
population is reckoned at 36,000,000, a total of 7,920,000,000
kilogrammes. If, therefore, from the 8,046,800,000 kilo-

grammes calculated, as above stated, for human consumption,
there be deducted the 7,920,000,000 which suffice for the
consumption of France, the following result, which must be
satisfactory to every one, is come to — namely, that France,
in an average year, has a crop of 127,000,000 kilogrammes
of corn beyond the wants of the people, and that she could
still feed 600,000 iahabitants more than the present number
of her population.''

THE LEADING TOPICS AT OUR AGRICULTURAL MEETINGS.

The many agricultural gatherings just now, or
but lately, held throughout the country, continue
to afford equally satisfactory evidence as to the
commendable course their supporters are pursuing.
We have already had occasion to remark this season
how almost invariably these proceedings have been
kept to their proper object — the safe and consistent
advance of British agriculture. Little, indeed, has
been the exception here ; the dissensions, in fact,
which have occurred are more personal matters
than anything else, and such as in no way threaten
to endanger " the harmony" existing amongst the
members of other societies. Unhappy Mr. Colville,
for instance, has no one to associate with himself
in a display of bad taste and presumption, but
duly punished by the terrible gibbeting he has
already received. The disturbance at Leominster,
again, offers us little for imitation. Tracing its
origin to what was said to be a personal matter
between Lord Bateman and his tenants, it was
ultimately allowed to completely negative the pur-
pose for which the agriculturists of the district had
met together. However wrong Lord Bateman may
be — whatever his tenantry may have to urge
against him, we find but little excuse for turning
the Leominster Society's festival into a mere bear-
garden, by a succession of interruptions out of all
order, decency, and good sense.

Let us turn to more profitable matter. One of
the most interesting topics, then, just now engaging
not alone the attention of the agriculturist, is that
of the statistics of agriculture. The remarkable
turn tgken in the corn market has naturally induced
all classes to look to some such source of informa-
tion, for a key to that they cannot otherwise profess
to understand. The farmers, generally, appear to
be amongst the most anxious of these ; the only
doubt being whether the Government has as yet
gone the proper way to work to obtain what may
be relied on. In Worcestershire, for example, one
of the counties selected for a more extended trial of
the experiment, Mr. Curtler thought

" The object was fair and legitimate, but the Government

had not set about obtaining it in the right way. He had heard

great deal about this in the marketj and he did not think

many farmers would be disposed to afford the relieving officers
of ; the Unions any information upon these subjects, or any
other local persons employed by the Boards of Guardians.
He thought the farmers themselves would feel suspicion upon
the subject — suspicion which might fairly be excused, however
ill-founded it might be. The information required was fair and
reasonable, and should be yielded if asked for in a manner
which would show the farmers that it would be impossible that
any person's position should be exposed. It v/ould be great pre-
sumption in him to say in what particular way these statistics
could be procured in a correct form, but if circulars were sent —
(sent t'nrough the Board of Guardians or in any other way), and
the farmers were informed of the impossibility of the returns
being exposed to the neighbourhood in which they lived, or any
other mode were adopted by which the published return would
be that of a union — a county if they pleased — or any other
district, the farmers would be the last men to resist so reason-
able a request. If it were worth while to do this, it would be
worth while to do it well, and to go to some expense about it ;
but the Government appeared to wish to do it at very little
expense to itself, and would certainly not attain its end by
such means. Although Boards of Guardians and individual
farmers might express willingness to assist in giving the re-
quired information, he would ask whether Government could
expect to get a correct return under present circumstances
without compulsion — such a return as would be of any use to
the country at large ? They might depend upon it, the Govern-
ment had not taken the right course. He would rather see
the Government come forward boldly, and make it compulsory
on the farmers to make their returns to some office in London;
the thing would then be done weli."

Mr. Haywood, too, one of the judges of stock at
a meeting in a neighbouring county, Hereford,
clearly leans to the above view of the matter : —

" From conversation which he had had with several practical
farmers, he found the importance of the thing was fully appre-
ciated, but there was a want of information as to how it was to
be carried out. "Was it to be done by persons appointed in
the neighbourhood, or by proper officers sent dovm by the
Government ? He would much prefer the latter plan to hav-
ing a person connected with the locality to ascertain what his
produce was per acre. Moreover they had never been informed
as to the precise information which was required. He fully
agreed that, if we could arrive at an accurate knowledge as to
the quantity of corn produced in this county in any particular
year, the farmers would be able to form an idea of the prices
which would be realized."

It is but right to say that Mr. Curtler by no
means carried the meeting with him at Worcester.
Mr, Guest, " trusting for the sake of the county that

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507

the return would be made, it would be a disgrace
to shrink from it." While the Reverend Mr.
Pearson " could not understand any better mode
of attaining the required object than that proposed
by Government, namely, by seeking the informa-
tion from the agriculturists themselves, through
their Boards of Guardians," Mr. H. Hudson, on
the other hand, seemed to think the Government
was not doing enough ; and many, we believe, are
inclined to go with him : still his plan, we must
say, as so far developed, reads somewhat loosely, and
with no great promise of reaching much practical
success. If farmers have an antipathy, it is to
" the stranger-gentleman," who goes round,
note-book in hand, " collecting information."
However, Mr. Hudson is of opinion that

" If a man of honour and respectability were selected, it
might be done well enough by his going throngh the different
villages of a county, collecting the information from the lead-
ing farmers, and then looked over the parishes himself, by
which means he might obtain the averages, make up the sum
total, and send them to the government. What the govern-
ment wanted was the average quantity, and not the details of
so many bushels grown by one person or another. But it was
evident the thing was not yet complete : no doubt nest yeas-
there would be an additional column in the tables, requesting
them to state the average growth per acre. If any return
were made, it ought to be well and completely done."

Reference was naturally enough made to our
friends over the Border, in evidence of how complete
and satisfactory the returns can be made, even
under the present system. In Scotland, in short,
it appears already to be a settled question. The
Government ask for the agricultural statistics of
that country, and they shall have them. With the
preliminary lectures of Mr, Hall Maxwell, the dis-
cussion has ended. None there would seem to
care to dispute the advantages that must arise from
the supply of such necessary information, and so
they all agree to give it, and pass on to something
else. They are just at present busy on the merits
of the reaping machine, v/hich during this last har-
vest has had a most sifting and practical trial.
The subject was appropriately taken up at a
late meeting of the Haddington Agricultural
Club — appropriately, from our being assured
there are more reapers in that county than in any
given area of the United Kingdom, The tone of
this discussion, then, still ranks the reaping-
machine as one of promise. Almost every speaker,
however, had to instance some further improvement
which was absolutely necessary before it would take
its place amongst the common implements of hus-
bandry. From the experience of Mr. John Hope,
of South Elphingstone, as given at the meeting,
we take the following pertinent question, and its
answer : —
" What position is this machine to hold amongst agri- |

cultural implements, and especially in its legitimate work in
cutting down our crops ? I am almost unwilling to touch
upon its faults and short-comings. With the irritating
annoyances and multiplied griefs and vexations of a first trial
fresh in recollection, one is very apt to indulge in undue
colouring or exaggeratioQ. Besides, it is to be feared that we
anticipated more from the reaper than we had just grounds to
expect, and it is more than likely that the many mischaUces
of a first trial had their origin more in our ignorance and
unskilfulness than in any positive defect of the machine.
Still the question recurs, and it is one which ought to
receive a plain answer, what relative position is this
reaper to hold amongst our harvest implements ? Is it
to supersede them, or simply to act as an assistant
to the others ? In my opinion, in its present ^hape, it can
merely be viewed as an assistant, and that of a minor descrip-
tion. When out of gear at the land-ends or travelling, it is
rather clumsy and unmanageable, the reel is unsatisfactorily
loose, the weight altogether in excess, and I am afraid if the
land was the least wet or soft, that its operating power would
be instantly stopped. The temper of the machine, however,
being consulted, and placed under favourable circumstances,
I admit the beauty of its work ; but what I principally and
chiefly complain of is, that in the ordinary condition of our
crop it can do so little. The radical defect of the machine is
the number of the conditions which it demands before it can
be profitably employed. If the grain is luid, it cannot cut
even ; if it is laid at an inferior angle, it may work, but only
in one direction, which almost precludes its profitable use. I
could not get it to cut grass, from its liability to choke ; and
although I got it to cut beans, yet from some inexplicable
reason the canvass would not act as a delivery. Its sphere of
usefulness is thus comparatively limited. Its practical opera-
tion is essentially confined to corn standing erect, and as in
these days such crops bear a small proportion to those that
are laid, I do not think that I have erroneously designated this
machine simply as an assistant in our harvest reaping, and
that in a very minor degree, and this position it only takes in
the majority of cases after various parts were strengthened
and improved at the expense of the purchaser."

The machine more immediately under consi-
deration here was Crosskill's improved Bell ; and
a resolution was ultimately agreed to, in favour of
it, especially in economy, and " trusting soon to
be able without reservation to recommend its
general adoption." Every desire, in fact, was
evinced to give Mr, Crosskill credit for what has
already been done, though at the same time it is
very clear there is still more to be attained, before
it can be recorded as having reached that standard
of perfection we are now taught to look for in our
implements of husbandry.

With another word, as "appropriate" to the occa-
sion, we must here for this week stay our extracts.
It embraces three of the most interesting topics we
could, perhaps, just now combine : the war — the
high price of corn — and the future position of the
farmer. Sir Bulwer Lytton is our authority :
neither as dramatist, novelist, nor poet, but as a
plain country gentleman, and Member for Hert-
fordshire :

" When I am touching on the war, I must say there are

508

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

few questions that can more interest the farmer and aSect
his calculations, perhaps almost as much as the weather and
the seasons, than the continuance of war. My friend, Mr.
Puller, has shouted, somewhat prematurely, as I think, in
triumph over our friend Mr. Dering. He reminded us that
some three years ago Mr. Bering thought the game was nearly
up with agriculture ; but he forgets there were two things
which Mr. Dering had no right to anticipate. One was the
discovery of Californian and Australian gold, and the other the
war. Mr. Puller will bear me out when I say that all po-
litical economists of any authority are agreed that war in
itself is a more stringent mode of effecting what was once
called Protection to agriculture than anything which Parlia-
mentary wisdom could devise. War in itself restricts
foreign competition; war raises home prices; and I most
heartily agree with him, therefore, in this— that the prudent
agriculturist will do well to husband all the savings which a
continuance of the war may enable him to accumulate, so as
to be fviUy prepared against that inevitable reaction which, ac-
cording to the uniform experience of history, may follow the
return of peace (cheers). You all remember the great depres-
sion that followed the peace of 1815 ; in fact, the exorbitant
rise of protective duties at that time was only an expedient of
Parliament to replace that degree of protection which had been
the natural and necessary consequence of the war ; and the
severest test of that new political and commercial system which
we have adopted may probably be found in a year or two after
the peace ; and therefore you cannot do better now than to
make all diligent use of all the improvements in agricultural
science, and of whatever aids machinery may afford you, in
order that English agricultural skill may hereafter be fully and
adequately prepared to meet increased competition, and, if
necessary, a fall of prices."

At a meeting of the Poultoa (Lancashire) Agricul-
tural Society, at which John Wilson Patten, Esq., M.P.,
presided, in the course of the evening the Hon. Chair-
man gave his e.xperience on cheese making ; in the
course of the speech, in which he proposed " Success to
the Fylde Agricultural Society" he said —

He was not one of those who entertained an exaggerated
opinion of the harvest. He did not believe that it had been
so prolific as had been represented in the public papers. It
had certainly been rather more than an average one, and they
had the greatest reason to be thankful. If it were not so, we
would have been in a very different position to what we are
now, for there was a good prospect for next year (loud cheers).
He believed the farming classes were not given to be sanguine
in matters generally, but he thought that they had reason to
look forward at present with considerable hope [a voice :
" What about cheese ?"]. The hon. gentleman then intimated
that some time ago he had been induced to make some ex-
periments in the making of cheese from seeing farmers in his
own locality get so much larger prices for their cheese than
they did in that neighbourhood. He determined, therefore, to
make some experiments with a view to ascertain if cheese
could be made profitably here on the Cheshire fashion. He
had been making those experiments during the last three years.
He had in his hand a paper showing the results of those ex-
periments, but before giving them he must express his regret
at not being able to test ^the plan as he could desire by
matching the cheese thus made against the [cheese ^ made
on some other farm in the Lancashire fashion. He had en-
deavoured to get some farmer to come and show him what was

the price he got for his cheese, and what was the return
he got from his cow. All he could, therefore, do was
to place his own experience in the hands of the public. The
paper he held in his hand gave the general results, and every
farmer must judge for himself whether it was a better or worse
mode than his own. It was not because he had made those
experiments that therefore the Cheshire mode of making
cheese was the best ; but he (Mr. Patten) did not express any
opinion on the point. His belief was, that he did not make
so much by the experiments as a Lancashire farmer would
have done. He had been told that a Lancashire farmer would
have made more. The honourable gentleman then read the
following account, which was the one he had referred to : —

PRODUCE OF FIFTY-FOUR COWS AT GIFT HALL FARM,
WINMAELEIGH, 1853.

£ s. d. £ s. d.
Spring and autumn cheeae, 42 cwt.

3 qrs., at 60s. per cwt 128 5 0

Grass cheese, 142 cwt. 2 qrs., at

72s. percwt. 512 16 0

641 1 0

Butter, calves, &c 118 9 7

£759 10 7

AVERAGE PRODUCE PER COW.

£ s. d. £ s. d.

Cheese, 3 cwt. 48!bs 1117 7

Butter, calves, &c 2 2 0

£13 19 7

Now he must tell them that he had calculated the butter,
calves, &c., in this manner : — Butter at the price at which it
was then sold in the market, and the calves too. He had
taken some pigs which had been fed entirely on whey, but
had expressly excluded any pig that had been fed upon milk
at all. Every farmer might form his own judgment upon the
paper read, and make his own comments, his (Mr. Patten's)
object being to put before them the bona fide weight of cheese
which had been produced from the 54 cows. The farmers
might judge for themselves whether that proportion was less
or more than was made by themselves. The hon. gentleman
then advised farmers generally to make such experiments
yearly as he had made, and to put them fairly before the
public, and alluded to the desirability of having agricultural
statistics — to the great discrepancies existing in weights and
measures in various parts of the kingdom, which operated
prejudicially to the interests of the farmers, in preventing
them from accurately ascertaining the price of their produce ;
and concluded by expressing his intention of bringing ere long
the subject of an alteration in weights and measures before
parliament.

At a late meeting of the Radnorshire, Knighton, and
Teme-side Agricultural Society, the Right Hon. Sir T.
F. Lewis, M.P., in returning thanks, said : —

He was sitting between two worthy and excellent men, to
one of whom (Mr. Banks) he had last week the pleasure of
presenting a well-deserved testimonial in recognition of the
benefit which that gentleman had conferred upon those
amongst whom he lives, which reminded him that there are
persons who try to divide society into classes and schools. He
often heard respectable friends of his talking about the Man-
chester school, and of " going into fields covered with Man-
chester umbrellas." Good heavens ! could there ever be
anything so absurd ? As if the interests of this country,
manufacturing, commercial, and agricultural, are antagonistic
to each other ! The people of Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds,
&c., are the farmers' best customers ; and could the latter wish

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509

but that they should prosper ? Would the agriculturists best
thrive with poor or with rich customers ? The manufacturer
has no interest which jars or is incompatible with that of the
farmer. The mighty Maker of this universe has so arranged
our reciprocal interests, that the prosperity of one man, so far
as it influences that of another, has a tendency to increase it.
If this be so of individuals and communities, it is equally true
of nations. He well remembered the time when the philosophy
of commerce taught that to enrich England was to impoverish
France, and to enrich France was to impoverish England. This
was as false as that a man who, with the sun staring him in
the face, should declare it to be a dark night. God did not so
constitute society. Let us then hear no more about the non-
sense of the Manchester school : it is rubbish (cheers). Was
there any man present who would wish that young persons
brought up and educated at Knighton should have their ener-
gies confined within its limits ? Was it not gratifying to
think that persons like their excellent Chairman, springing
from the soil of Radnorshire, could sit at the head of these
festive boards, assist those around them with the light of their
experience, by the application of their accumulated wealth, and
by forming living examples of what may be done by good con-
duct and by the exercise of the intellect and energy with
which they are endowed ? (Hear, hear). Do not facts like
these teach us the mighty principles on which the interests of
great empires are founded ? Do not they cast to the winds all
the narrow-minded, detestable rubbish which supposes that
one man's wealth is necessarily au injury to another? (Hear,
hear). Do not believe it, for it is false and without founda-
tion. So long as a person does not infringe the laws of the
community to which he belongs, he ought to he free to put
forth his exertions in any direction, provided it be done with-
out injury to his neighbour. In Great Britain we have at-
tained in this respect a very high position, and we ought to
understand and appreciate the value of the privilege which we
enjoy. We should not then set the interests of one class
against those of another, but all would feel that the prosperity
of the country depends on the well-being of the whole (ap-
plause). The position of the agriculturist in this country is
one which confers as much happiness as it is in the nature of
the human frame to enjoy. If they do not live entirely amongst
flowers and roses, they reside in a country where the fields are
cultivated like gardens ; the occupation in which they are en-
gaged is peaceftil and tranquilising, with sufficient exertion to
keep the mind from growing rusty, and sufficient communica-
tion with one another to render association agreeable (Hear,
hear).

He afterwards made some admirable remarks in
respect to the mania for broad wheels in waggons. He
said —

He had a very strong impression, as he had stated on former
occasions, that there is a great waste of team labour in this
county. He happened to live near a road over which a large
quantity of lime is driven, and nothing was so common as to
see four horses attached to a wretched waggon, the axletrees
of which are as thick as his thigh, and the friction thereby
occasioned sufficient in itself to fatigue at least two of the
horses. Did the farmers of this county never think of the
advantage of small axles ? Would it have been possible for
the old stage coaches to have travelled ten miles an hour with
axles like those used by our agriculturists ? If the axle of a
donkey cart were much tliicker than his thumb the animal
would be unable to move ; and this would give some idea of
the great waste of horse labour which is tolerated at the pre-
sent day. (Hear, hear.) Then as to the position of the horses:

when he met a waggon coming down a hill the usual practice
was to find the man asleep in the waggon, the boy leading the
fore horse, the horse in the shafts with its two hind legs
scraping ou the ground to prevent the waggon running on it,
and the three others pulling as hard as they were able. (Hear,
hear.) Now he had understood from his earliest days as a
principle that action and counteraction was not an advisable
mode of proceeding ; and to put three horses to pull against
one was an equal absurdity. The same thing was observable
in Herefordshire, Shropshire, and in the southern parts of
England, to perhaps even a greater extent than in Radnor-
shire. In Ireland and Scotland there was no such thing to be
seen as a waggon. How they managed he did not exactly
know, but certain it was that the system there adopted effected
great economy of horse labour. Agriculturists would find this
subject well worthy of their consideration. Another absurd
system had been introduced on the advice of a Cornish gen-
tleman, named Gilbert, who thought that rolling roads with
broad wheels would do them good. (Hear, hear.) Wheels of
twelve inches broad were tried, but finding they would not
answer they were reduced to nine, and even then he noticed
that the outer tier never touched the ground. A wheel
weighing, he hardly knew what, a ton and a half perhaps, could
be of no earthly benefit to any human creature, and he was
happy to say they had been nearly knocked off the road. A
road made with good stone may be rolled upon by any wheels,
but if it should be injured by the use of those of a narrower
or lighter description, more stone must be put on ; but do let
the farmers exert themselves to get rid of the detestable fallacy
about broad wheels. The system was no doubt perpetuated
by the premium offered for these heavy wheels, in the shape of
reduced tolls. This did not apply to South Wales, for there
they had happily no preference about broad wheels; but Rad-
norshire being on the borders of English counties, where the
absurd distinction is made, farmers were induced to continue
the practice. (Hear, hear.)

Captain Mynors, in reference to the broad wheel
question, said —

With reference to what had failed from the hon.Baronet.he
(Capt. Mynors) observed that he had some time ago taken
great trouble to procure light carts with small axles such as
had been recommended. A waggon of this description, a
few weeks since, he loaded with foi^r tons of bark, which he
sent down to Hereford, but was perfectly dismayed when his
waggoner returned and informed him that he had been fined
30s. for sending four tons upon one waggon. He really
thought the Hereford Turnpike Trust had a somewhat singular
mode of extracting money from the pockets of the public, and
without attempting to throw out any suggestion to the Right
Hon. Bart, as to the mode by which this could be remedied,
he really thought such impositions ought not to be tolerated
in the present day. He did not believe that his waggon did
more harm to the roads than one carrying only two tons, and
such extortions were enough to preclude improvement in this
direction. (Hear, hear.)

At the annual meeting of the East Surrey Agricultural
Society, held at Croydon, the Rev. E. F. Benyon said— Jj

That the society aimed at the improvement of agriculture,
and the elevation of the character of the labourer, by the re-
cognition and application of the two great principles, that
" Knowledge is power, and union is strength." But know-
edge might be turned to a bad purpose, and the power

610

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emanating from such knowledge would be evil; the power of
knowledge could only be good when it was made to subserve
some good end. In the present instance knowledge through
this society was made to subserve a good end, therefore
its power was good. If we looked at what knowledge
had effected in the earth, there seemed no limits to its
power or its triumphs. What changes had it effected
iu almost every portion of the world ! If we looked at
what knowledge had done — whether at the railroads, electric
telegraph, or other scientific discoveries — we must be struck
with the changes it had effected on society. Those changes
were altogether favourable, and productive of good ; and when
we looked at the vast and extraordinary inventions in the
manufacturing districts, we could only wonder at what know-
ledge had done, and pay a high tribute to its power. But
knowledge, as applied to inventions for agriculture, was
equally gratifying and equally wonderful. If v/e compared
the ploughs which we had now with those of the olden time,
we must be made sensible of the progress which had been
made iu this respect. Nor must we fancy, amidst all this
general progress, that We might now stand stiil. We must
not suppose that the advancement in machinery had reached
its end, and there was nothing more to do ; and although
some might regard as chimerical the steam cultivator, and
prognosticate that it would never take effect, who, on proper
consideration of what had been done already, could say that
some discovery will not take place even of a steam cultivator
that shall effect the three great points — the desiderata of the
agriculturists, the inversion, the comminution, and the aeration
of the soil. So much with respect to machinery : and, now,
with regard to physiology. We were eating mutton 12 months
old, and beef 15 or 20 months, while a short time ago four or
live years were thought necessary to bring our sheep and
beasts to maturity ; and although an epicure might consider
meat of a more advanced age to be better eating, we must all
admire this early maturity as a great point in political economy.
We saw great improvement in the breeds of our animals, not
only with regard to their structure and shape, but also their

constitution. We had very much improved our breed of
cattle and our breed of sheep, and all this had been effected
by a knowledge of physiology. Chemistry, too, had done a
great deal. It had taught ths farmer the constituent parts of
which the soil he had to work upon was composed, and how
to apply the necessary ingredients to produce the crop he
wanted. By chemistry we might produce great effects. The
sewage of our towns might yet be converted into valuable
manure, and be spread over our lands, increasing their fer-
tility and developing abundance. He did think it was much
to be regretted that the farmer should be going to distant
lands to purchase a manure, which, if chemistry could disclose
some means by which the ammonia — which was the valuable
part of that manure — could be tised, might be obtained from
the sewage of our towns. A remark was made by a gentleman
at the last meeting, that it was knowledge that was wanted —
knowledge to all classes — not merely to the labourer, but also
the landlord and tenant farmer. The more enlightened all
these became, the better it would be for them all, and society
generally. He did not believe, as some supposed, that if the
landlord knew all the particulars of what the soil produced,
and the expense of its production, they would want to raise
their rents ; he rather held with Mr. Mechi. that when they
looked at the wonderful way in which nature carried on its
operations, the more liberal would he be in the covenants of
his lease, because he must see that agricultural productions
were not, after all, under human control. The farmer might
have used his best skill and industry in his calling — using in
the cultivation of laud all the means science and experience
had placed at his command, employing the most labour and
the best machines— applyirg, with no niggard hand, the most
perfect manures — and the storm and tempest, the mildew and
the blight might come to mock his toil and destroy his hopes.
A full knowledge of all this must induce liberality on the part
of the landlord. And the more knowledge a tenant farmer
had, the less likely would he be deluded by the ignis fatium
schemes too often appearing under the name of improvement,
but which only lead to useless expenditure,"

LABOURERS' FRIEND SOCIETIES

There is nothing so effective or so direct in the
lesson it would convey, as the force of example.
In every condition and pursuit of life we are con-
tinually acknowledging this. The distinction we
award to the good man is no more an act of justice
to himself than it is an example for his fellows.
The very principles, in fact, of order and society
depend, more or less, on some such basis. The
history of the good and. faithful servant cannot be
written for himself alone. The career of such a
one, if only duly appreciated, should be a common
good. Whether we find him in the senate, the
camp, or in the closet — or, say, even that we seek
him in a far humbler sphere — can we presage any-
thing but advantage following that tribute to his
worth, which he has so ably earned, and that we
so gladly offer ?

Let us seek him now in that humbler sphere ;
and, happily, in doing so, we go nowhere alone or

unassisted. It is almost impossible, just at this
season, to take up a provincial contemporary with-
out noticing how, in all parts of the kingdom, this
desire to do honour to the upright man is being
something more than merely expressed or approved.
The stamp and test of time have put their seal upon
these intentions. It is significant, at least, to find
thatof all the associations connected with agriculture
none last so long, while few advance so steadily, as
those directed to the well-doing of the Labourer.
Agricultural societies, whether started for one espe-
cial object, or even with a more extended field for their
operations, are proverbial for the uncertainty of their
tenure. Farmers' clubs, as we have again to
regret, are but too frequently yet more ephe-
meral— blazing out, and then dying away all
within a few anniversaries of their formation.
The Labourers' Friend Societies, however, the
most systematically abused and ridiculed of all

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511

public institutions, perhaps, ever promoted, yet
continue to exist, and continue to prosper. There
is scarcely a class within the real boundaries of
their operation but cheerfully offers its aid to their
support. The owner of the soil, the occupier, the
clergyman of the parish, the country-tradesman,
and the labourer himself — all bear testimony to the
usefulness of their object, and the happy influence
of their proceedings.

And yet there must be something radically wrong
about the principle of such societies, or they could
never come in for that hard word, which in certain
quarters so constantly awaits the celebration of their
festivals. To be sure, in almost every other grade
of society we do admit the argument as legitimate
enough. "We do deem it right to offer our reward,
however inadequate it may be, to good conduct,
and we do try to work some further good by the
force of example. For the scholar, whose genius
and diligence have raised him above his fellows,
we have something prepared to note this dis-
tinction. It is may be a medal, or, harsh as it
may sound, it is often enough hard cash. The
soldier, too, wears his medal with equal or
greater pride. It speaks to long service and good
conduct. Nay ; we even go beyond this, and
have some such significant reward ready — some
such holding up as an example to others — for him,
who, acting only on the natural impulse of the mo-
ment, has endangered his own life to save
another's. We are too practical a people for
merely empty praise — at least, with only one soli-
tary exception, and that one is the labouring man.
It is an insult to offer him any reward for ability
and diligence — it is an insult to hold him up as an
example for his fellows — it is an insult to pay any
tangible tribute to his good conduct. Empty praise is
enough for him ; or, as the humbug Professor says
in one of Jerrold's comedies, " you are a very
honest man ; and — I wish you good morning."

But then, the very amount of these premiums
carries with them their own condemnation. Is a
prize of thirty shillings or two pounds an equiva-
lent to a twenty or thirty years' service ? Is it not
worth more than that ? As soon might you ask, as
it was well put by one of the speakers at a meeting
in Suffolk the other day, if a medal for saving a
man's life is what you estimate the life at ? We
offer it in voluntary appreciation of gallant conduct ;
and in thus appreciating it, we hold it out as an
example to others. These Labourers' Friend
Societies, however, have another covert design
beyond making men merely good, able citizens.
They want to keep them from being paupers ;
they want to keep them from parish relief!
Could they have a higher aim, or could they
profess one for which the labourer himself would

feel more really thankful ? They say to John
Jones : " Jones, by good conduct and honest in-
dustry you have managed to maintain and brmg up
a family without ever subjecting them to the ener-
vating influence or reflection of the workhouse or
parish relief. You know as well as we do, John
Jones, that, had you so chosen, you might have all
come on the parish together. Some good friends
of yours, John Jones, who will put it in this way,
will tell you that by acting as you have, you have
saved our rates ; but what we tell you is that you
have saved your character. It is for this,
John Jones, we make bold to honour you, and
to offer some little testimonial to your worth. It
is for this, John Jones, we would hold you up as
an example to your younger neighbours, confident
as we are, that you will not misconstrue the feeling
we have towards you. You might have been a
pauper, an idler, a drunkard, or even worse — all
these courses, eligible, independent, and agreeable,
no doubt, as they are, were at your disposal ! You
have, however, spared your parish this expense,
yourself this reproach, and offered to all your neigh-
bours a better example. In the name of them all
we venture to thank you."

We have been called upon repeatedly of late to
instance individually the good these Labourers'
Friend Societies are doing, and have done. The
landlord, the farmer, and the clergyman are all
alike earnest in their approval. In answer to these
applications, our space will only allow us to refer
generally to the number of such societies now in
existence, the length of time many of them have
been in operation, and the character they bear in
their several districts. It is in these facts we shall
find the best answer to the vague and too often
absurd objections urged against them — objections,
we must repeat, to principles for which precedents
might be found amongst almost all other classes of
the State, and that with these other classes can do
no more than tend to the direct encouragement of
that good, they so directly tend to in this.

The proceedings of the Labourers' Friend So-
cieties have within this week been rendered more
than generally remarkable by the presence of a
very remarkable man at one of them. This was
Lord Palmerston, at Romsey, in Hampshire, vvhere,
in the course of many very excellent observations,
his Lordship has rather startled some of us by the
doctrine " that all children are born good." We
should prefer ourselves the reading of one of his
Lordship's critics, and say, " they are born neither
good nor bad ;" in other words, that they are born
eminently susceptible to the force of example. If
you inculcate — and you can best do this by ex-
ample and association — that it is knowing and
clever to be paupers and poachers and drunkards.

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THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

paupers and poachers and drunkards most likely
they will be. If you wish for something better,
you must find some better example ; and whether
it be ploughing a furrow, thatching a rick,
maintaining a family, or keeping a character, we
can refer you to no more useful authority than the
much-maligned Labourers' Friend Societies of this
kingdom.

LORD PALMERSTON AT ROMSEY.

The annual meeting of the Romsey District Labourers' En-
couragement Association, was held at the White Horse Inn,
Romsey, Hampshire, on Tuesday, when various prizes for good
conduct were awarded. On the distribution of these. Lord Pal-
merston, who presided, addressed the prizemen as follows : I have
very great pleasure in being President of this useful Institution;
and it has afforded me infinite gratification to see so many of the
labourers here having by their good conduct in every possible
way earned the rewards which have now been bestowed upon
them. It is unnecessary, in addressing those who have distin-
guished themselves as you have by your good conduct, to say
anything touching that course of conduct which is calculated to
secure personal comfort and respectability, and to call
down upon man the approbation of his neighbours.
But, nevertheless, it is always well that people should bear in
mind general principles, though in addressing you, whom
Providence has placed in the labouring classes, it may not be
out of place to remind you that the distribution of wealth
and poverty — the arrangement by which there are com-
paratively few rich and comparatively many poor, is the
condition of the world in which we live, and that no humau
institution can alter this arrangement (Hear) can make all the
poor rich. It might be possible to make all the rich poor,
but the eondition of comparative poverty is a condition which
by the arrangement of this world which we inhabit must in-
evitably be the lot of a great portion of the human race.
But, although it has been the pleasure of our Maker, in a
world which is a world of trial and transition, and not the
ultimate destiny of mankind — though it has been the plea-
sure of our Maker thus to subject a great portion of the hu-
man race to trials and to privations, to enable them to qualify
themselves for that future state which awaits them, yet Provi-
dence has not been niggardly in those qualities which are calcu-
lated to secure to man that happiness which awaits those who
well conduct themselves here, for all the goodqualities of human
nature — all the qualities of mind, all the qualities of intellect,
all the qualities of heart™ everything that tends to dignify
human nature, and to enable men to distinguish themselves in
the condition in which they have been placed— these qualities
have been sown broadcast over the human race, and are as
abundantly dispersed among the humblest as they are among
the highest classes of mankind. You will find that all
children are born good (Hear). It is bad education, or bad
associations in early life, that corrupt the minds of men
(Hear, hear). It is true that there are now and then ex-
ceptions to general rules ; there are men who are born with
clubbed feet — there are men who are born blind — there are
men who are bom with personal defects, and so also
now and then it will be found that children are born with
defective dispositions, but these are rare exceptions ; and be
persuaded of this, that the mind and heart of man are natu-
rally good, and that it depends upon training and education
whether that goodness which is implanted at birth shall con-

tinue and improve, or whether, by neglect or bad education^
or bad associations, it shall be corrupted and spoiled. Now,
therefore, the first thing you would uaturally infer from this
is, that it is the duty of all parents to see that their children
are well and properly educated ; that they are early instructed,
not merely in what is called book-learning — in reading and
writing, and things of that kind; but that they are in-
structed in the precepts of right and wrong; that they
are taught the principles of their religion, and their duties
towards God and man. Now, the way in which that can be done
is by the father and mother building up their course upon that
which is the foundation of all goodness in social life — I mean a
happy home. Now no home can be happy if the husband is not a
kind and affectionate husband to his wife, and agoodfather to his
children (hear). For that purpose he must avoid two great rocks
upon which many men in the humbler classes of life make ship-
wreck. I mean the tobacco-shop, and the beershop and public-
house. The tobacco-shop ruins his health, disorders his stomach,
and leads to all kinds of diseases. Well, if he was a man living in
a desert island, dependent upon himself alone, it would be his
own look-out. A man then might ruin himself just as he
pleased ; but the labouring classes must recollect that their
health and strength is the wealth of their family ; and if they
ruin their health and strength by intemperance of any kind,
they are uot merely injuring themselves, but doing irreparable
damage to those who are dependent upon them. So much for
that great use of tobacco in which some men, unfortunately to
their detriment, indulge. But the beer shop and the public
house go much further in their bad consequences, because the
habits there contracted not only lead to the degradation of
the individual, and the impoverishment of his family, but lead
also to offences and crimes which in their result tend to place
a man in the condition of a felon and a convict. No man who
indulges in drink can fail to feel degraded when he recovers
from his intoxication, and that sense of degradation leads him
again to drown his care in renewed intoxication, and from
step jto step he falls to the lowest possible condition in which
a man can be. Don't imagine, when I am saying these things,
I am not perfectly aware they affect not those I have the
pleasure of addressing. No man would have come here to-day
to receive the reward of good conduct who had not been
perfectly free from these things. You are entitled by your
good conduct, and the position in which you have placed
yourselves, to give good advice to your neighbours who
have not been so fortunate as you have been — not so
alive as you have been to your duties to yourselves, your
families, and your country. It is gratifying to see so many men
who have in the various pursuits of agricultural industry
entitled themselves to these rewards ; but there is one circum-
stance connected with the Ust of prize-men which I confess is
pecuUarly gratifying to me to think of. I mean that among
you there are a certain number who have lived so long in the
employment of particular masters ; that you have shown that
not only those who have so lived must be most deserving
men, and, therefore, have done honour to the class to which
they belong; but the fact of their having lived so long
with particular masters does equal honour to the masters
with whom those labourers have so long remained. His lord-
ship here selected eight instances from the list of prizes which
had been read, and continued : These eight servants have, on
an average, lived 33 years with respective employers — a fact
which does the highest honour both to the employer and the
employed — which speaks volumes in favour of the farmers who
have engaged them, and the men by whom they have been
served (cheers). I trust that next year we shall have even a
larger assembly of prizemen than on the present occasion —

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i^l3

that the example of theae prizemen, who go forth to the world
with the honourable marka of the approbation of the
Committee of this Institution, will serve as an inducement
to other to imitate their example — that the good con-
duct of the labourers will more and more entitle them to the
respect and consideration of the farmers who employ them,
and thus the two classes, who so mutually and necessarily de-

pend on each other, will find their relations more and more ce-
mented by mutual consideration and respect— a state of things
most important and beneficial to the interests of the nation at
larsje. Let me, in conclusion, propose as a toast : " Success
and prosperity to the labourers of Hampshire."

The toast was received with three hearty eheera, and three
more having been given for his lordship, the company separated.

THE AGRICULTURAL GEOLOGY OF ENGLAND AND WALES.

BY JOHN DONALDSON.

(Continued from page 17, vol, xxxix.)

LIMESTONE^

In a very hard state, is placed as a primary rock,
and affords the statuary marbles. As a transition
rock, it affords the materials of ornamental sculp-
ture, being more variegated in colour, and contain-
ing some organic remains, not very extensively
distributed, but often abundantly accumulated in
particular situations. In either condition, the
limestone never supports any soil of cultivation,
not does any other rock of the transition class be-
sides those mentioned. The Wenlock Limestone of
Murchison would be termed a transition rock ; it
supports a good sharp loam where it has been used.
The transition rocks show the declining aspects
of the primary formations, attended with some
passages into the following strata, to which we have
now advanced :

SECONDARY ROCKS

Form the valuable series of strata to which Great
Britain owes much of her commercial prosperity.
The development is most complete in Britain, but
irregular over the basin of Europe.

The most important formation is the New Red
Sandstone, which contains the grand depositary
of the salt mines, and of coals. The rock is
formed of angular or roundish grains of different
minerals, connected together by means of a basis or
ground, or immediately joined without any basis.
When the grains are not larger than a hazel nut, the
compound is simply named" sandstone" but when
larger, they are denominated " conglomerate " if
the masses are roundish, but "breccia" if angular.
Sandstone is divided into three kinds— silicious,
argillaceous, marly or calcareous. In the siUcious
kind, the particles are connected by a ground or
basis of quartz ; in the argillaceous, by a basis of
clay, which is sometimes highly impregnated with
red oxide of iron, and gives a red cast to the whole
rock ; and the particles in the marly or calcareous
kind are set in a marly or calcareous basis.

The common New Red Sandstone is the Varie-
gated Sandstone of Jamieson, and the " new red'* of

Buckland. It rests upon, and alternates with the
magnesian hmestone, and is covered by the oohtes.
The texture is small granular, with an argillaceous
or marly basis. The colour varies extremely, in
bands or zones, of red, grey, brown, green, and
yellow; and hence the name of "variegated," given
it by Werner. The different states •- f the oxidation
of iron gives the colour, which varies in the inside
and outside, according to exposure. It is much
mixed with masses of clay or marl of various
colours, which contribute much to the decom-
position. The upper part is mostly clay, which is
dry and marly, and constitutes the valuable soils
which lie upon the New Red Sandstone.

Sand-stones are found in various formations,
which differ in colour, and somewhat in compo-
sition. The deposit occupies much space in Eng-
land, in the wide central plain, with branches to
the north and south. Almost universally it fills a
low and level country, out of which arise insulated
groups and short ranges of mountains of older
strata, or pyrogenous rocks. Its highest point in
England does not much exceed 800 feet above the
sea. The rock occupies nearly the whole of
Cheshire, and the low district of Cumberland;
the southern part of Derbyshire is wholly occupied
by it, but often covered by gravel and alluvial de-
posits. It appears partially in Devonshire, and in
Dorsetshire, and rather largely in the county of
Durham. Much of Lancashire is occupied by it, in
the vaUey of the Mersey, and in the neighbour-
hood of Manchester ; in many places it is covered
by clays, marls, and peat mosses. It is largely de-
veloped in Leicestershire, and occupies a strip of
the county of Monmouth. It appears in different
parts of Northumberland, chiefly along the Tweed ;
the vale of Trent in the county of Nottingham is
occupied by it ; and the forest of Sherwood hes
upon a sandstone of the conglomerated form.
The whole northern parts of Shropshire are oc-
cupied by the saliferous marls of the Red strata,
containing the coal measures and the salt rock. It
I occupies the valley of the Avon, in Somersetshire,

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and nearly the whols county of Stafford. The
counties of Warwick and Westmoreland are partly
on the red rock; and much of Worcestershire, in
the valley of the Severn, with all the N.E. portion
of the county. It appears in Yorkshire, on the
western side of the vale of York, and about Eipon
and Boroughbridge. In Wales, the New Red Sand-
stone occupies a part of the coast on the north-
side of the county of Denbigh, and much along
the river Dee, and near the village of Chirk ; there
is a large extent of it in the county of Flint, much
about Cardiff, in Glamorganshire, and a small
corner in Montgomeryshire.

The N.W. corner of Lincolnshire has the red
s?.ndstone ; but it is wholly covered by alluvium.
The soils that are recumbent on the variegated
sandstone fall under the denomination of loams,
and vv'ill be described imder that head. Every-
where the rock forms a sound substratum for
arable lands, whether the soil lies in the immediate
contiguity of the stratum, or when a bed of sand,
clay, or gravel, be interposed as a tertiary deposit.
It confers a salubrious eiFect on the superimposed
mass, which is conveyed upwards to the cultivable
stratum. Very generally, and mostly in South
Derbyshire, the subsoil is a red marl, which has
been derived from the decomposition of the upper
argillaceous marly quality of the higher part of the
rock, as v/as before mentioned. It forms perhaps
the best subsoil that is known.

The continued action of long standing water in
the marine form had softened the rock to a con-
siderable depth, and by gradually withdrawing had
deposited the sedimentary mass on the place where
it was procured. In other cases, a disturbance of
the tranquil operations has introduced deposits of
an extreneous nature, which had been collected by
similar causes of interruption, and deposited in the
situations of- accidental location. In most cases,
diluvial beds overlie the rock ; but everywhere the
character of the subsoil is very superior.

LIMESTONE

In the flat formation, rests upon the Old Red Sand-
stone in the regular order of succession. The first
variety is the " mountain limestone," or the first
Secondary Limestone of Jamieson ; is grey, blue, or
black in colour, in very distinct strata, that are
often undulated and contorted. It abounds in the
north of England ; in the eastern high grounds of
Cumberland; in Derbyshire, Wales, and Gloucester-
shire. It appears in the Isle of Anglesey, of the
hardness of marble ; and in Carnarvonshire, and in
Flintshire, and in the county of Glamorgan. The
counties of Merioneth and Pembroke contain a
small quantity, which attends the Old Red Sand-
stone and the coal formation. There is much of

it in Derbyshire, and in the county of Durham ;
and the county of Leicester has some gentle hills of
the mountain limestone. Near Chepstow there is
carboniferous limestone, and also in the higher
parts of Northumberland, and in some parts of
Somersetshire, as on the declivities of the Mendip-
hills. The eastern moorlands of Staffordshire are
occupied by the mountain limestone, with the mill-
stone grit, in the central and western portion.
The north part of the county of Westmoreland
contains mountain limestone ; and there is much of
it in Yorkshire, but placed high, and above the
range of cultivation.

Mountain limestone does not support many cul-
tivated soils, and these mostly in the county of
Durham, where the land is good, and the herbage
very sweet. Where cultivated, the soil is composed
of fragments of the rock, mixed v^ith some portion
of vegetable loam. Bone manure gets a choice bed
for its action, and turnips grow admirably among
the rocky fragments, vv^ith average crops of barley
and artificial grasses ; but the land is of secondary
quality, being v/anting in the base of clay or strong
earth to support much fei'tility. In the course of
cropping, the lands are placed with the loams of the
second degree, as are afterwards detailed.

General opinion ascribes to limestone an oceanic
origin, as being the earth of fishes or marine ani-
mals, though some writers reckon it a peculiar
formation of the silicious and aluminous earths.
Recent chemical investigation designates it as the
oxide of " calcium," one of the newdy discovered
terrigenous metals, with the nature of which we are
very imperfectly acquainted, and the idea seems too
refined for common entertainment. The com-
position being calcareous or residual, there is a
general sweetening quality attached to all the
varieties, which has a very favourable effect on
vegetation. It is held together by fixed air, which
is expelled by a strong heat, and the earthly mass
falls to powder by the apphcation of water. The
effect as a manure may as much arise from the
phlogiston of the fuel that adheres, as from any
inherent quality of the alkaline formation itself.

Magnesian limestone is the second Secondary
Limestone of Jamieson, rests upon the coal for-
mation, and is covered by the New Red Sandstone ;
the colours are yellow, brown, and grey, and it
contains about 20 -pev cent, of the carbonate
of magnesia. It abounds in several parts of
England — as from Sunderland to Nottingham ;
the coal formation near Whitehaven lies under it,
and the same is the case in Derbyshire. The rock
does not very often rise to the surface; but where
it does appear, the herbage is meagre, and the
land is more adapted for arable cultivation than for
pasturage. The magnesian quality is said to be

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

hurtful to vegetation, and tlie lime from the solid
rock is shunned as being deleterious. But this im-
puted property may be doubted from experience,
except on some very hot limestone gravels. YV^here
these soils do occur, as about Doncaster, in York-
shire, good crops of turnips are raised with bone
manure, and the barley and clovers grow well, with
wheat on the best lands. But the intermediate
beds of earthy concreted gravel destroy the
hurtful influence on the soil of the magnesiaii rock,
if it does possess that quality. On good loamy
clays, and all soils of good constitution, it has been
most decidedly proved that magnesian lime is not
at all hurtful, but very highly beneficial. The
limestone soils are cropj^ed as turnip loams.

THE OOLITE ROCfIS

Form the third Secondary Limestone of Jamieson,
and got the name from the concretionary texture
resembling the roe of fishes, and derived from a
Greek word signifying an egg. The formation
rests on the New Red Sandstone, and is covered
the third sandstone, or the " green and iron
sands." The oolite series is a great and diversilied
group of limestones, sandstones, grits, and clay, ex-
tending across our island from Dorsetshire to York-
shire. The rock is seen in Bedfordshire, and oc-
cupies the N.W. part of the county of Bucks. A
large part of the counties of Gloucester and Oxford
is occupied by tlie oolites in the three varieties of
the formation ; viz., the upper, middle, and lower,
and form table lands of very considerable extent.
The county of Dorset shows tlie tail or outlyers of
the roestone ; and in Lincolnshire, the wolds are
partly formed from it. The northern and central
parts, and the N.W. of the county of Northampton,
are occupied by the lower oolites, which very much
descend into calcareous sand-stones. The county
of Rutland is included in the formation of the Great
Oolitic Series, where the E. and N.E. sides of the
county are formed of the table lands of the oolitic
hills. In Somersetshire, the roestone, in the order
of the Great Oolite, afifords building stone, as at
Bath and other places. The Lower Oolite is seen in
Warwickshire, and the Middle O olites in Wiltshire,
and also in Worcestershire. It forms a large range
of country in Yorkshire, forming tabular hills
from Scarborough to Hambleton, and southward to
Walton and Acklam. The surfaces are poor heaths,
as the rock is silicious rather than calcareous, and
contains very little carbonate of lime.

The oolite hills yield the soils called " stonebrash
or cornbrash," and the " coralline or coral rag."
The "cornbrash" lands lie on the surface of the
Lower Oolites, of which they form the upper beds,
and are of a chalky or pasty consistency. They
are found chiefly in Oxfordshire and Wiltshire,

and some in Huntingdon and Dorset. The coral-
line soils lie on the Middle Oolite, which forms an
elevated platform near Oxford, and runs into the
western side of Berkshire. The bed varies in
depth from 100 to 200 feet, and calcareous in
the upper part, and silicious in the lower.
The chief situation is in the counties of Wilts
and Oxford, and some in Dorset. The general
character is a loose rubbly Hmestone, and often
almost entirely made up of a congeries of several
species of aggregated and branching madi'epores,
and hence the name of " coral rag." The outer
slope towards the escarpment of the hills being
occupied by the calcareous grit, affords a light
sandy soil. Their surface and back, where the
substratum is the coral rag, presents a loose stone-
brash soil, of a dry and medium quality.

Digging for water on these rifty and porous lands
must penetrate to the junction with the subjacent
clay ; whence the springs sink into the rifts, are
concealed in them, and are again thrown out by the
clay, as may be seen at lieadington, near Oxford.

The " cornbrash" lands are formed of loose
rubbly limestone, of a grey or bluish colour, on the
exterior brown and earthy : it rises in flattish masses,
rarely more than six inches thick. The beds of
clay and sand intervene at little distances, and mix
the quality of the stratum. The general name of
the lands is '■' stonebrash," and the varieties are
called " cornbrash and coral rag."

Every species of limestone affords a dry subsoil,
where draining is not required, and produces a very
suitable bed for sheep. Accordingly the above-
named lands are adapted for turnips and sheep
farming, the crop being raised by artificial manures,
and consumed on the land by sheep. Barley fol-
lows, with three years of pasture formed with the
natural grasses. The better cornbrash lands will
admit wheat on the lea of the pasture, or on the
turnip fallow that is enriched by the feeding of the
sheep. Neither soil reaches the medium quality of
lands : the cornbrash is the best, from the mixture
of the calcareous, argillaceous, and arenaceous
beds.

CHALK

Constitutes the fourth Secondary Limestone of
Jamieson, and is the most recent formation of the
carbonate of lime. It rests on the highest sandstone,
constitutes the uppermost stratified rock, and fin-
ishes the regular ascending series of the graduated
stratification of the component parts of the globe.
The development of chalk is very large in England,
extending from Dorsetshire to Yorkshire, and in
most of the intermediate counties. It appears in
Bedfordshire, and very largely in Berkshire ; in
Bucks, it forms the range of Chiltern-hills, and
occupies nearly the whole extent of Cambridgeshire.

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THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

The downs of Dorsetsliire are extensive, and the
chalk is seen in some parts of Essex, and in the
N.W. parts of Hertfordshire, In the county of
Lincoln there are extensive wolds of chalk-hills,
lower placed than the oolitic ranges, and in Norfolk
the chalk downs occupy much extent. The Chil-
tern chalk runs into the county of Oxford, and
the formation occupies some part of the county of
SuflFolk. High ranges of chalk hills traverse the
counties of Surrey, Sussex, and Kent, and rise
nearly 1000 feet high.

The white chalk downs of Salisbury extend
widely in Wiltshire. The wolds of Yorkshire are
560 feet thick of the chalk formation.

Where the chalk rock immediately supports the
cultivated soil, the land barely reaches mediocrity,
the quality is meagre and gritty, too absorbent of
moisture, and deficient in depth and firmness of
texture. '1 he highest parts rise to utter barrenness.
Neither animals nor vegetables are fond of residing
on chalk, and hence the exuvite are wanting, which
form the chief richness of lands. The best quali-
ties fall under the denomination of loams, and will
be mentioned under that head.

TERTIARY SYSTEM.

The vast assemblage of heterogeneous matters
which overiies the chalk in a loose unstratified order,
consisting of clays, sands, and gravels, in a great
variety of conditions and modifications, is dis-
tinguished by many appellations, as the Tertiary
system, Diluvial detritus. Drift, Erratic boulder
system, and Alluvium. These names have arisen
from the different views of geologists as to the
cause of the formation of the various materials
which form the assemblage that is so very tumul-
tuously disposed. The Tertiary system has been
made to comprehend the whole deposit above the
chalk, and has been divided into four periods or
divisions, distinguished by the varying proportions
of existing species of shells contained in them. In
the oldest, which lies next the chalk, we have the
dawn of existing species, not amounting to more
than 5 per cent. ; in the second, they still con-
stitute the minority ; in the third, more than two-
thirds of the shells belong to existing species ; and
in the newer or Upper Tertiary, these amount to
from 90 to 99 per cent. To the latter succeeded
the modern period of forming the peat-bogs of
Ireland, and the alluvial tracts of England; in the
Romsey Marsh, Pevensey Level, and the Lincoln-
shire Fens. Some alluvials have been formed since
the time of the Romans. The modern period con-
tains remains of existing quadruped species, known
in tradition, or now living in the neighbourhood.
The newer tertiary evinces by the physical cha-
racters and the fossil contents the temporary pre-

valence of an arctic climate as low as the fortieth or
fiftieth parallels of latitude.

In other arrangements, the Tertiary formation is
confined to a collection of mixed sea and land ma-
terials in rocks, clays, and gravels, which are found
in the basin of Paris, the Isle of Wight, and in a
patch of Hampshire : fresh-water materials appear,
which mark a progressive step to the present state
of the globe. Over it is placed the " diluvium,"
or the relics of the present zoological period, both
in animals and vegetables ; and then the "alluvium,"
or the most recent and evenly laid subaerial de-
posit. Some reckon all the materials to be alluvial
that lie above the chalk, and so far simplify the
arrangement; others call it drift, erratic detritus,
and the remnants of glaciers. The first appearance
of organism is in the Silurian system, being inver-
tebrate marine life ; the Devonian, or Old Red Sand-
stone follows, showing locally the same life, and a
rich and progressively varied assemblage of fishes.
Traces of land plants also appear, showing a pro-
gression to terrestrial vegetation, and a habitable
state of the globe. In the secondary rocks, a large
progression is traced in the number and variety of
the animals and vegetables— birds appear, but no
mammalia. The era above the chalk most clearly
marks the commencement of the present zoological
period, and all the present organisms come pro-
gressively into existence. It forms by far the most
important epoch in geology, and becomes the more
interesting as it discloses the connection of the
ancient and modern world. Life had been gradually
progressing from the very lowest organism through
many gradations, till it reached the present ex-
istences on the face of the earth.

Conybeare divides the alluvial deposits into
marine and fresh-water formations, distinguishing
them from each other according to the organic
remnants which they contain, as being of a marine
or fresh- water origin. This division forms a very
convenient arrangement, and differs not much from
the marine and fresh-water distinctions of the
tertiary system and the diluvium, or between the
quiet state of the retired sea and the fixed position
of the elevated land. But it has the advan-
tage over the old imperfect distinction between
diluvium and alluvium, as it traces more distinctly,
and places in a clearer view, the depositions after the
present causes of operation had been established.
For this reason, we shall adopt it in the following
notice of the tertiary system.

The variations of the Upper Alluvium mainly de-
pend upon an aqueous deposit of some kind or
other, which was formed at the close of the Dilu-
vial or Erratic Block period, or when the agency of
marine water had ceased, and that of fresh water
had supervened. The terrestrial surface, gradually

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517

submerged, was acted upon by the operations of
water; and upon the gradual re-elevation, the
various quantities and qualities appeared of the
earthly deposits, regulated by the denudations that
were performed by the peculiar agencies which
characterize and distinguish that period of the ex-
istence of the globe. The amount of this denu-
dation, and the subsequent removal and location of
it by the agency of water, has fixed the depth of
the various beds of deposit. The denudation of
the older rocks had been progressing through many
gradations, and the detritus had been placed at the
Diluvial period, and subsequently covered by the
finer alluvium. Diluvium and alluvium are very
much confounded, and under many names embody
the discordant opinions of geologists respecting
the origin of the deposited beds. The former
understands the settling of a previous destruction
by some very tumultuous agency, and the com-
mencement of a new period of life; and the latter
marks the production of a new agency, more
orderly and settled, and less violent in the power
and operation.

The whole mass above the chalk is placed under
four heads or divisions — clay, sand, moss, and
gravel.

CLAY

Is the earth of marine water, and on that account
has been placed in some systems of geology, as a
tertiary formation, and deposited in a more loose
form immediately over the stratified chalk. The
general character is sordid, viscid, slippery to the
touch, and without regular shape. It becomes
plastic and ductile by the application of water, and
friable when dry, hardens by ignition, and is not
fusible by the greatest degree of heat. No sub-
stance appears in greater variety than clay ; the
modifications are as numerous as the geognostic
positions, and the materials compounded with the
exterior objects of contract and assimilation. By
reckoning clay a marine production, we conclude
that the waters have formed the argillaceous sedi-
ment by the denudation of rocky formations, and
have dropped it as the lighter solution, and this
before the recess took place of the sea waters from
the face of the earth. For otherwise there is no
satisfaction how the clays have been placed on high
grounds, and beyond the power of any alluvial
agency to raise the deposit to the elevated locality.
The viscid quality, salts and acids, that are found
in the clay, may have proceeded from the sea water,
and hence combined with the aluminous earthly
base by means of some general affinity ; and the
proportions would be varied by the different
agencies and influences of exposure. The quality
would be affected by the quickness or slow process
of the deposition ; by the time the water remained

upon it after the location was effected, and the tem-
perature to which the new formation was exposed
on the water being withdrawn. And tlie quality
might be affected by the previously deposited body
on which it was made to rest, and by the sub-
sequent power of inundations and convulsions.

Another theory, and comparatively a new one,
designates clay to be the argillaceous detritus of
glaciers, which covered the globe at a period of
most intense cold, and retreated to the sea, as the
earth became warmer, and which tore open and
scooped the valleys in the melting progress to the
ocean, by means of the huge mass of congregated
ice. The clay was formed by the continued con-
tact of the ice and the earthy rocks, and the salt
ingredients proceeded from the water dissolved from
the glaciers, and stagnant upon the mixed depo-
sition. The detritus was deposited most sparingly
on the flanks of the glaciers, or on the tops and
sides of hills and high grounds, and deepest in the
valleys, along which the glaciers moved in a slow
progress to the ocean. And the deepest deposition
being found near the sea, is thought to proceed
from the glaciers remaining there, and dissolving
totally away, and leaving the collected dregs of a
long existence.

But this theory hardly accounts for the deposits
of clay on high grounds, and none in the valleys,
unless we allow a subsequent inundation to have
superimposed an alluvial deposit, and covered the
clay of the glaciers. Again, the very different
qualities and appearances of the clayey deposits at
short distances apart, would seem to require a wide
latitude of acting causes, much beyond our power
to imagine or arrange. There may have been
different agents in different states of the globe, and
the results would be regulated by the primary
cause, and the influences of control. There are
seen the most viscid and obdurate clays in the
driest climates of Britain, and clay lands of an
easily manageable quality in the most humid atmo-
spheres. These circumstances go far to induce the
supposition that each locality has possessed some
predisposing influence in directing the qualified for-
mation of clay. And though these influences
cannot be deduced from any appearances that are
now seen, still the existence and exertion of their
power are not thereby at all impaired.

The clays of England and Wales may be divided
as follows ; — 1, Plastic clay, or the deposit next the
chalk ; 2, London clay, which overlies the plastic
formation; 3, Lias clay, the lowest member or base
of the Oolitic series of deposits ; 4, Oxford, clunch,
forest or fen clay, a member of the Middle Oolites ;

5, Kimmeridge clay, a member of the Upper Oolites;

6, Gault or golt, an argillaceous deposit, that divides
the iron and green sands ; 7, Wealden clay ; 8,

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THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

Alluvial or valley clay ; 9, Arid clays, vvhicli lie on

various strata^ and of very diversified quality,

PLASTIC CLAY

Rests in a bed immediately over the chalk, is
unctuoiis, tenacious, and variously coloured, em-
ployed by potters, and has been named by Broug-
niart, " Plastic clay." It contains little chalk j but
is frequently intermixed with sand, particularly
towards its upper part; sometimes this sand is
divided into two beds. It varies in thickness, in
some points not exceeding a few inches, in others
being many fathoms. It contains few shells, and
these are marine.

This deposit forms the lowermost bed of the
series of formations in the tertiary system of Eng-
land, or the first alluvial deposit from the agency
of sea or fresh water, since the great revolution by
which the relative level of land and sea has-been
changed. The group is seen to be very irregular
and confused, and marks a turbulent period, and
varying velocities of water. The under part con-
tains green sands, often associated with flints and
pebbles, and occasionally full of oyster shells,
sharks' teeth, &c. The middle part contains blue
clay or marl, shells, alternating v/ith sands, with
or without shells. The upper part contains coloured
sands and coloured clays, with beds of lignite, and
occasionly layers of flints.

The marine tertiary deposit is held in three
groups : I, Upper group, or crag, generally
arenaceous; 2, middle group, or London clay,
mostly argillaceous ; 3, lower group, or plastic clay,
clays and sands.

A curious question has been raised: "Whence
came the sands of the lower group ?" Mr. Lyell
supposes the uplifted Weald of Kent and Sussex to
have yielded the materials of the whole of the
marine tertiaries to the north and south ; and that
v/aste of the sandy districts of the ¥7eald furnished
the plastic clays and sands, and the Weald clays
contributed the argillaceous sediments. This
speculation can neither be advocated nor opposed ex-
cept by trains of argum.ent involving too many as-
sumptions to be admissible in inductive geology ;
hut the probability is great that some uplifted
green-sand ranges contributed materials to the
plastic clay formation.

This clay being associated with the chalk, is
found only in the south of England, where that
formation abounds. It is found overlying the chalk
in the London basin, and skirts for the most part
the whole district occupied by the London clay,
beneath which the deposit is seen to lie. The
highest point rises at Hadleigh, in Essex, and
borders the clay to Braintree, including Halstead
and Coggleshall, and the intermediate tract. Fi'om

W^are, in Hertfordshire, it extends to Edmonton,
Enfield, St. Albans, Uxbridge, and Beaconsfield,
to tiis banks of the Thames, and along the valley
of the Colne. From Reading, where it again ap-
pears, it ranges to Hungerford, Marlborough,
Basingstoke, and Guildford, thence south of Croy-
don to Farnborough, and Chatham, and by Milton
to Whitstable, and in other directions to Canter-
bury and Sandwich. It occupies the eastern part
of the county of Dorset, and has a very undulating
surface. The plastic and London clays are much
confounded in the county of Essex. The deposit
occupies tlie part of Kent next the Thames, and in
Sussex, the appearance of it is very partial. The
general breadth varies from 1 to 8 miles, and the
depth from. 100 to 120 feet. The surface of the
formation is flat in the general character ; on the
north east of London, remarkably so. In Herts,
it rises to a considerable elevation, and in other
places to gentle eminences.

The plastic clay covers the chalk hills at Al-
dington, Croydon, Epsom, and Barnstead Downs.
It covers the tops and sides of the chalk hills ;
London clay ovei lies the valleys, and is bounded on
the south by the iron sand, the rocky escarpment
of which looks over the Wealden formation of clav.
The quality of the soil differs most essentially from
the clay of Hertfordshire and Essex, the viscous-
ness is most extreme over the chalk, but nearly
altogether lost on the North side of the Thames. An
opinion has been pronounced that the very viscid
quality is produced by an extremely minute mix-
ture of the chalk with the argillaceous base, and
the special quality being confined to the chalk dis-
trict, seems to favour that opinion. On the lower
grounds the land is equally stubborn ; but much less
viscid and waxy than on the tops and sides of the
chalk-hills, where they are often very thickly mixed
with imbedded flints.

These lands are the most stubborn in Britain for
the purposes of cultivation, requiring a plough of a
most peculiar shape, called the Kentish turnwrest,
and much animal strength, not less than four, and
often six horses of powerful draught. The most
obdurate in the nature, and the poorest in quahty,
are most advantageously used in permanent grass;
but they require very frequent top -dressings with
rich composts, after being completely dried by
frequent draining. The wettest quality requires the
frequency of drains in the distance of fom* yards,
and filled in the usual way. Farm-yard dung is
the only manure that can act on the stubborn soil,
and is applied on the bai"e surface of the summer
fallowed land, which may be cropped thus : 1st year,
fallow ; 2nd year, wheat ; 3rd year, hay ; 4th year,
pasture; 5th year, oats.

The soil does not admit the drilling of beans;

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

519

but they may be iatroduced in broad-cast in the
place of the pasture or oats.

The modification of the plastic clay, as seen in
the counties of Hertford and Essex, admits a more
varied and improved cultivation. Beans can be
dibbled on the furroa'-slice from the winter plough-
ing, and barley and vetches are used successfully
in many places. The summer fallow is still neces-
sary, and the frequent draining of the land. The
drains may be more distant than on the v/axy lands
of clay, about 5 or 6 yards apart, and 2^ feet deep.
Farm-yard dung is the only manure appreciable, or
other putrescent substances. The best system of
cropping may be recommended in— 1st year, fallow;
2nd year, barley ; 3rd year, hay or grass ; 4th
5'ear, grass in pasture; 5th year, oats; 6th year,
beans; 7th year, wheat.

The fineness of the barley tilth obviates the ob-
jection of the stale bed for the grass seeds on the
winter wheat bed ; two years in grass produces a
• vegetabls sward for the nutriment of oats, and the
lime is very conveniently and advantageously ap-
pHed on the scarified bean grattan to be sown with
v/heat. The course includes every useful plant,
and deserves very much consideration.

LONDON CLAY

Is the second marine formation above the chalk,
and overlies the plastic deposit. It occupies the
basin of London, and has been bored to the depth
of 700 feet, in the corners where it joins the Bag-
shot sands at Wimbledon. The colour is blue, or
lead-grey; but in the lower parts, brown and red
clays occur. Green grains are seen in it. Sandy
lafers occur, and are often indurated into con-
siderable rocks, usually containing green sand. It
often lies on other clays, and contains a vast num-
ber, beauty, and variety of organic remains. It
forms many insulated hills, resting on sands and
clays, and affords many mineral springs ; it pos-
sesses all the characters of a very quiet and con-
tinuous deposit, and not far from shore, since a
few considerable remains of land ani littoral pro-
ductions occur in it, as wood, turtles, and croco-
diles ; but no pebbles, nor coarse sands. Shells of
the most delicate and fragile forms are perfectly
uninjured in this clay, except in the rare case of its
being lamiaated. This clay forms a finer sediment
than the plastic clays on which it rests, which have
proceeded from some temporary turbulence of the
marine aqueous sedimentary vehicle, or the irregular
melting of the glaciers.

The county of Middlesex is mostly occupied
by the London clay, covered in many places of the
low grounds by alluvial deposits. Towards the
edges of the London basin, the clay forms the
surface of the ground, ascends the river to Staines,

and downwards it comprehends the county of
Herts, and is much mixed with the plastic clays in
Essex. It appears in Kent, and occupies the
portion of Surrey that is contiguous to the Thames,
though much covered by alluvium. Some small
part is seen in the county of Sussex.

The London clay is poor in the vegetable quality,
and most obdurate in the cultivable purposes.
Any aration requires the power of four horses,
and the use of the strong and heavy turnwrest
plough. It is equally intractable in the dry and
wet state, being waxy and hard, and in both con-
ditions admitting no mechanical operation. Farm-
yard dung, and similar putrescent substances, are
the only available manures, the very repulsive con-
stitution of the soil denying the reciprocal action
of any quick elastic matters. Summer fallowing
and t!ie sowing with wheat is the only practicable
system of cropping, and the beans must be raised
broadcast, as the land will not allow drilling of
any kind at no season of the year. The draining
must be very frequent in 4 or 5 yards apart, placed
in the furrows of the ridges, which are kept in the
same position during the continuous fallowings, for
the purpose of retaining the furrows over the
drains.

These lands are most advantageou&ly used in
grass, which requires the contiguity to some large
town, whence to procure an adequate supply of
putrescent manure. The herbage deteriorates on
these unkindly surfaces, and requires very frequent
and heavy top-dressings in order to refresh and
uphold the grassy surfaces. The raeadovv's near
London have been converted into a rich hot bed by
the top dressings of manure.

LIAS CLAY

(Lig, ligas, V. lias, Ger. flamies, as the clay is sul-
phureous, and has been burnt for alum), is the
lowest member of the Oolite series of deposits, and
overlies the new red sand-stone. The beds are cf
clay or marl, bluish grey in colour, and slaty, con-
taining thin deposits of a blue, grey, or white
argillaceous limestone, which has the very peculiar
property of setting as a firm cem.ent under water.
It contains various petrifactions, mostly reptiles,
and hence called the reptile period of the globe,
and remains of crocodiles have been found in it
near Lyme, in Dorsetshire. The formation
stretches from that place, passing under the uncon-
formable green-sand of Blackdown, and surrounding
the irregular elevations of carboniferous limestone
in Somersetshire, and ranges uninterruptedly by
Bath, Gloucester, Leicester, Newark, and Gains-
borough, to the Humber. The breadth of the
formation is often reduced to a few yards ; but in
general it occupies a broad vale of 5 or 6 miles at

530

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

the foot of the escarpments of oolite, and termi-
nating towards the red marl by a very connected
range of uniform low hills. A considerable
portion of the steep slope of the Oolite escarpments
is occupied by the Lias ; and in the midland coun-
ties particularly, owing to the action of currents of
water, detached portions of oolite crown the sum-
mits of raanyjnsulated masses of the Upper Lias
shales.

The lias accupies, in the county of Devon, the
valley of the Axe, above Axminster, and the upper
part of the valley of the Yort, and it is seen in the
western extremity of the county of Dorset. It
occupies much of the eastern side of the county of
Leicester, skirting the valley of the Soar, and in
Lincolnshire it has much extent. It begins at the
Humber in the width of three miles, proceeds due
south of Lincoln, and to the west side of the county,
all which it pervades. The E. and S.E. parts of
the county of I'*'jttingham are occupied by the lias,
and also much of the vale of Belvoir, in Rutland-
shire. In the county of Oxford, the lias covers
the vale of Charnwell, and some extent near Chip-
ping Norton ; but the space is inconsiderable. In
Shropshire, the lias extends ten miles between
Whitchurch and Market Drayton, and in a breadth
of 3 or 4 miles ; it is an outlier distant 60 miles
from the great lias formation of Warwickshire and
Worcestershire, which are supposed by Murchison
to have been at one time connected. Nearly the
whole of Worcestershire is occupied by the lias,
and in Warwickshire it possesses the valleys of the
Stour, and of the Redhorse, and many ranges of
high ground, and overspreads most of the S.E.
part of the county. The blue lias appears in the
south part of Glamorganshire, in the lowest part of
the valley of Ogmore, and is found filhng up the
valleys of depression.

The lias clay, like all other argillaceous deposits,
forms broad and level plains, which constitute low
tracts of ground, more from having presented less
resistance to the denuding causes which modified
the inequalities of the surface, than to anything
connected with their original formation. These
plains are often diversified with low ridges, and a
shght escarpment may often be traced following the
lower limit of the formation. This escarpment is
most conspicuous on the borders of Nottingham-
shire and Leicestershire, where it forms a well-
marked range distinguished by the name of the
Wold-hills, Near the Mendips, the lias sometimes
occurs on the brov/ of tolerably steep escarpments ;
but its maximum elevation probably falls short of
500 feet above the level of the sea. The average
thickness in the midland counties is reckoned be-
tween 400 and 500 feet.
The surface of the Lias clay forms a soil that is

generally cold, wet, stiff, and tenacious ; much of
it is in pasture, for which it is well adapted, and
the ground is seen to he in hjghly raised ridges, in
order to procure a surface drainage in the days o
former cultivation. In sheltered situations, it is
favourable to the growth of wood, and in Glamor-
ganshire good crops of wheat are grown on the
lias ; and the marl of the Rag, or Grey Lias, is es-
teemed the richest mineral manure in the country.
Water is scarce in the Lias tract of country, and
that because of the abundance of pyrites, that are
often sulphureous or ferruginous, or impregnated
with purgative salts, as sulphate of soda.

The limestones of the Lias formation have a
general tendency to an argillaceous type, and its
clays more frequently exhibit a schistose structure
than the other clays of the Oolitic system. Layers
and masses of jet are frequent ; pyrites is an abun-
dant production in connection with shells, and
sulphur is in some parts so prevalent as to furnish
a valuable manufacture of alum. Many fruitless
trials for coal have been made along the line of the
Lias clays.

The lands of this clay cannot be used for green
crops, but require the process of bare summer
fallowing for wheat. The crops of any kind are
not large ; but the pasturage is very sound, when
the land is in grass. The draining is done as be-
fore described. The system of the present culti-
vation would be much improved by the use of
natural grasses in two or three years of pasturage ;
and the fore-mentioned course of seven years is
much recommended for the lias as well as plastic

clays of the modified descriptions.

OXFORD CLAY,

Or clunch, or fen, or forest clay, is a member of the
series of the Middle Oolite deposits, and gets the
name from the county of Oxford, where it is most
abundantly developed, and that of " clunch," from
the layers of whitish stones called " clunches," that
are met with in digging through the clay, and which
are not much harder than chalk, containing within
them pieces of rotten wood, and small bi-valve
shells. The appellation of " fen or forest clay," is
derived from its situation in the eastern fens of
England, which are supposed to have been forests
in some former ages of the world. The colour is
bluish-grey, and it includes hard and large septaria.
It lies on the cornbrash rock, which is a soft,
earthy, yellow limestone, and often blue and sandy.
The Oxford clay forms the Vale of Bedford,
which is mostly in pasturage : it is there made
into bricks. In the county of Bucks, the clay ex-
tends from the vale of Aylesbury, to the town of
Buckingham, and to the N.W. of Stony-Stratford
and Newport li'agnell. It appears in the county of

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

621

Dorset ; and in Essex it is much mixed with the
Plastic formation. It lies deeply in Huntingdon-
shire; and in that county, the "clunches," or lumps
of the Oolitic rocks, are found in the clay in the
greatest abundance, and in the clearest form. The
position of the beds of clay are nearly horizontal,
and 500 to 700 feet in depth. In the county of
Lincoln, it is seen 3 miles wide at the Humber, 15
east of Lincoln, and 25 between Sleaford and
Spilsby ; the elevation is not above that of the fens,
and the depth is about 550 feet. The low district
of the clay forms a valley separating the chalk of
the wolds from the oolitic higher grounds, and
when it meets the fens, it disappears below the vast
alluvium. It occupies the eastern border of the
county of Northampton, placed between the mid-
dle and lower oolites, and in the county of Oxford
the middle parts are wholly occupied by the clay,
which forms the valley of the Thames above Ox-
ford. The surface is low and flat. It separates
the Coral-rag from the Lower Oolite, and crops out
from beneath the former, showing its position as
the lowest member of the Middle Oolitic group.
There is some Oxford clay in the northern border
of Wiltshire : it is seen in the valleys of the Thames
and Avon, and in gentle eminences by Cricklade
and Malmsbury, Melksham and Trowbridge. In
Yorkshire, the Oxford clay appears on the steep
slope of the escarpment of the tabular-hills under
the "Nab's End;" the fossils belong rather to the
calcareous grit, than to the clunch clay of the
south of England.

The Oxford clay in the whole range south of the
Humber is a pale blue colour, turning to yellow on
the surface, with many fossils, and some layers of
chocolate-coloured shale. In Yorkshire it is less
tough and more generally laminated, gradually
changing in quality to the shell or rag rock below,
and the calcareous grit above. The continuity is
very remarkably connected from the north side of
the Dorsetshire Downs to the Vale of Bedford,
Huntingdon, and the western borders of the fens,
to the banks of the Humber. The moist valleys
of Oxford clay lie between the dry ranges of the
Middle Oolite hills, while the vales of Kimmeridge
clay are overlooked by the higher rocks of the
Upper Oolite. The denudating power of former
floods is proved by the exposure thus made of
the hills overlying the clay, and by the occasional
covering of insulated hills of the subjacent clay
of the oolites and sand-stone. The connection
with the rock is most apparent from the clunches
or detached stones found in the clay, and the shells
of the stratified deposit. The location of the
Oolitic system may have been less continued than
the Chalk deposit, which may account for the soft-
ness of the latter rock, and the more viscous

quality of the superimposed waxy clay, both con-
ditions arising from the longer continuance of the
agency of sea water. The denudation of the Oolitic
system has been efl^ected in much less time than of
the Chalk formation ; the waters were sooner re-
moved, and have left fewer and less distinctively
imprinted marks of their peculiar quahty and
power. Accordingly, the now-mentioned clays
wholly diflfer from the waxy and viscous character ;
they receive moisture more freely, and give it off
with less obstinacy. Still they retain the obdurate
nature of clay in a very hardened coherence, and
an obstinate resistance to mechanical power.

The quality of the Oxford clay for arable pur»
poses is of the medium sort, being dry and hard,
and the general character is rather below mediocrity.
The ploughing of the stiffest kind is beyond the
power of two horses, and the implement must be
proportionally strong. The culture of root crops
is not admitted, and the bare summer fallowing
must be adopted. Wheat and beans are the prin-
cipal crops, and are produced in fair abundance.
The clovers thrive where the upper soil tends to
loam, or where a fine pulverization can be effected
of the clayey surface. The draining of these lands
is done as before recommended. Putrescent mat-
ters only suit as manures, and the rotation of
cropping is best as before mentioned.

In the eastern fens, the clay is mostly covered by
a more recent alluvium, which falls under a separate
description. Where the clay forms the surface
ground, the quality is of the nature mentioned above,
varied by the situation, and other physical causes.
The precisely same character does not attend the
clay as it is seen in Oxfordshire and in the fens :
the latter may have been affected and modified by
the stagnant or covering matters which deposited
the vast beds of alluvium, and have rendered the
consistence more greasy and soapy, and the temper
somewhat more friable. The Oolite formation is
less prevalent on the eastern side of Britain, and
does not occur so exclusively as in the south-
western counties of the island. The materials are
more varied, and the depositions would be more
mixed, and partake a heterogenous character ; but
the general description is everywhere to be re-
cognised.

OXFORDSHIRE UNITED AGRICULTURAL SO-
CIETY.— At the last meeting of the Banbury Agricultural
Society the following resolution was adopted : — " That this so-
ciety embraces with much pleasure the opportunity afforded
by the Oxfordshire Agricultural Society of making propositions
for the union of the two societies for the show of stock ; that
this society proposes to offer a sum not exceeding £50, as
premiums for stock, and that the two societies shall enjoy all
the privileges granted to each committee for the offering and
diatributioa of such premiums, the chairman of each society

622

THE FARMEK'S MAGAZINE.

retaiuing his position alternately ; that the shows of stock be
held alternately at Oxford and Banbury, and that the annual
meetings for fixing the prizes, and transacting other business,
be held at each town alternately ; that the respective societies
shall not interfere with each other in reference to the show of
implements, roots, ploughing, rewarding of labourers and ser-
vants, nor in any other way whatever ; that the chairaiaa and
the following gentlemen, members of this society, be deputed
to attend the meeting of the Oxfordshire Society, to be held
on Saturday nest at the Star Hotel, Oxford ; and that the
said deputation be empowered to make all such terms with
the Oxfordshire Society as it may be deemed fit and proper,
so that the same may be in accordance with the spirit of this
resolution." The following were the deputation appointed : —
The Chairman, Messrs. A. Bull, W, Cother, J. Gardner, J. W.

Godson, S. Smith, R. Goffe, W. Rusher, and W. Munton. A
special meeting of the Oxfordshire Society has since been held
to receive this deputation, when, on the proposal of Mr. Wing,
seconded by Mr. Druce, sen., it was resolved unanimously that
the Oxfordshire Society should accept the Banbury share
offered, and the following nine names were elected a sub-
committee of the old societ}', to meet nine members of the
younger, to arrange details for the time for the show, and de.
termine the premiums to be oifered. Right Hon. J. W. Hen-
ley, M.P., Waterperry ; Mr. G. Davey, Dorchester ; Mr. J.
Druce, Mr. S. Druce, Eynsham; Mr. E. L. Franklin, Ascott ;
Mr. \V. GiUett, Southleigh ; Mr. Middleton, Cutslow; Mr.
Miller, Water Eaten ; Mr. Wing, Steeple Aston. We con-
gratulate the members of both associations oa this union of
strength.

SUPPLIES OF BREADSTUFFS.

Without any wish to create ifnnecessaty alarm, we are forced
to look oa thii subject as one of much importance. The
prohibition of exports, by almost all the continental nations,
and the avidity of foreigners to purchase in our markets, when
they admit of such an operation, vsarn us that we shall be
more dependent on our own supplies durmg the coming year
than we have heretofore been. Our production of corn has
been gradually diminishing, as we find that the corn sold in
the market towns of England and Wales, and reported in the
official returns, indicates great diminution in production. The
returns are as follows : —

Wheat.

Oats.

Barley.

Qrs.

ars.

1844 ......

5,456,307

1,989.730

2.834.407

1845

6,666,240

2,000,952

2,468,489

1846

5,958,963

1,970,448

2,938,398

1851

4,487,041

940,006

2,333,719

1852

4,854,513

947,550

2,389,487

1853

4,560,912

880,408

2,474,205

It will be seen at once tiiat our production ot gram bas very
seriouslydiminished, and that an increase has taken place in our
imports from foreign countries. This import has been very much
affected by two causes : the war in the first instance, and the
deficient crops on the Continent and in America, in the second.
Our imports have been —

V/HEAT.

Oats.

Barley.

Acres.

Acrts.

Acres.

1817

743.171

2.200,170

.S32,655

1848

605,74'^

1,922.405

243,235

:S!9

(J87,5f:0

2,031,185

290,960

1S50

604,867

2,142,596

263,350

1351

504,248

2,189,755

282,617

1852

S53^5,'iu

2,283,4-19

i:4 9,476

1853 ......

326,896

2.157,849

*248.642

lS5i

411,923

2,043,466 1

*200,000

1844
1845
1846
1851

1852
1853

Wheat.

Oats.

Barley.

Qrs.

ftrs.

1,037,963

308,126

1,025,416

844,536

586,860

867,854

1,437,336

724,340

371,137

3,131.838

1,209,844

834,491

3,068,892

995,479

626,137

4,9=^9,314

1,035,072

829,633

But m addition to these imports of foreign grain we bave also
imported a large quantity of flour and Indian Jcorn. The im-
ports of flour were —

In 1844.
987,774 cwts.

1845.
924,256 cwts.

1846.
3,363,810 cwts.

la 1S51.
5,363,578 cwts.

1852.
3,921,634 cwts.

1853.
4,662,898 cwts.

We are aware that such an array of figures will appear for-
midable to some of our readers ; but they clearly show the
vast alteration that has taken place in the English growth of
cereal crops, and while there is a diminution in the growth cf
corn at home, a consequent increase has occurred in our imports
from abroad. In Ireland a perceptible change has also taken
place. The quantity of land under cereal crops in Ireland
was—

We have before us a return of the quantity of grain shipped
from Ireland to England previous to the famine, and subsequent
thereto, which shews the great change that has taken place in
our position as a granary for Great Britain. In 1845, we sent
to England 371,000 qrs. of wheat, and 1,421,000 cwts. of
fiour ; in 1853, we only sent 12,600 qrs. of wheat, and 192,500
cwts. of flour. The falling off ia oats and oatmeal was not
in the same ratio.

The money value of the Irish cereal crops in 1347 was about
£20,431,000 ; in 1850, from the reduced price of grain, the
value of Irish cereal crops would only be £14,205,000, being a
loss to the farming interest of six-aud-a-quarter millions. It is
true that in 1850 there were about 150,000 acres less cereals
than in 1847 ; bat the value of these would not exceed three-
quarters of a million, and they would leave the Irish farmers
losers on the 3,149,556 acres of land under grain, to the ex-
tent of five millions and a-half sterling, or nearly £2 per acre.
The change that has taken place in prices is so great that the
average prices for the year 1853 are higher than were received
for the crop of 1847. And although the land under corn in
Ireland is diminished more than half a million of acres, yet the
Irish farmers will have received for the produce of 2,722,387
acres under corn in 1853 nearly as much as they obtained for
the produce of 3,313,579 acres in 1847. The average price of
wheat for the year 1850 was only 38s. 7d. per qr., while for
1853 it was 53s. per qr., and the average for the past week
was 60s. 7d. per qr.

In hying these statements before our readers, we need only
remark that enhanced prices "will secure increased cultiva-
tion, and thus tend to supply future wants. Under a fair range
of prices we should have had 600,000 acres of land in Ireland
under grain, which is this year under grass, and this land would
have yielded about two and half millions of quarters of grain
for our present consumption instead of depending ou foreign
supplies,

* These are only approximate, as the tetr.riis for these two
years include Bere, Rye, Beans, Peas,

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

523

AGRICULTURAL RETURNS (IRELAND).

The returns of agricultural produce in Ireland for the year
1853 have just beea issued.

The following passages are selected from the prefatory re-
port of the registrar-geueral, which coatalas a very complete
account of the agricultural coutlitioa of Ireland in the year
1853, compared with, the returns of previo\i3 years :

In reviewing the more prominent facta contained in these
tables, the first point of interest which presents itself is the
alterations in the number of holdings.

Between 1852 and 1833 the decrease has been much less
than for several years past, being only 4,859, or 0.88 per cent,
on holdings exceeding one acre in extent ; tlie reduction be-
tween 1851 and 1852 was 2.79 per cent.; between 1850 and
1851 it wa.3 3.8 per cent. ; and beiween 1849 and 1850 it was
4.22 per cent. The number of holdings for the period referred
to is as follows:— In 1849, 619,027; in 1850, 592,896; in
1851.570,338; in 1852, 554,413; in 1853,549,554. The
decrease between 1849 and 1850 was 28,131; between 1850
and 1851, 22,558 ; between 1851 ai.d 1852, 15,925 ; and be-
tween 1852 aud 1S53, 4,859.

The counties in which the largest decrease has taken p'ace
between 1852 and 1853, in proportion to the total iiumber of
holdings, are Kilkenny, Tipperary, Louth, Wicklow, Meath,
and Waterford.

It appears that in the counties of Carlow, Dublin, Kildare,
Westmeath, Clare, Fermanagh, and Leitrim the decrease baa
been small ; whilst in the four Connaught counties of Galway,
Mayo, Roscommon, and Sligo, and also in the counties of
Kerry and Wexford, a slight increase in the number of hold-
ings has taken place.

The classes of holdings in the numbers of which these
changes have taken place possess considerable interest. Be-
tween the years 1852 and 1853, as between 1851 and 1852,
there was a decrease in all the classes "above 1 and not ex-
ceeding 30 acres;" in the nest class, " above 80 to 50 acres,"
there was a decrease of 14 holdings between 1851 and 1852 ;
whilst between 1852 and 1853 there was an increase of 218
holdings. In all the higher classes, however, an increase is
shown to have taken place, viz., in the holdings from " 50 to
100" acres, 375; in those from "100 to 200" acres, 338 ;
in those from " 200 to 500 " acres, 73 ; and 159 in holdings
of " 500 acres and upwards." The total number of colti er
tenements or holdings which do not exceed one acre in extent,
have increased by 737 between 1852 and 1853. This increase
is principally owing to a more accurate cLissiflcatioa of several
tenements throughout the country.

It may be necessary to remark that many of the farms now
returned as "above 500 acres," have been raised to this class
since 1852, not by the union of farms of a smeller class, but
by the addition of tracts of land hitherto returned as unten-
anted " bog and waste ;" and as the process of adding mountain
tracts to farms goes forward — encroaching on the present sys-
tem of grazing iu common — the class of large farms may
gradually increase without causing much diminution in the
number of smaller holdings.

As this country seems to be approaching a period when the
extraordinary chauges in the division of land which have been
in progress for several years past are likely to cease to a large
extent, it may be interesting to carry back our comparison, so
fur as the previous returns will admit— the highest classifica-
tion adopted previous to 1851 being " above 30 acres."

Since 1849, the holdings " above 1 and not exceeding 5
acres" in extent, have decreased 18,761 ; those " above 5 to
15 acres," 35,196; those "above 15 to 30 acres," 11,256;
and those " above 30 acres," 4,389, making together a total
decrease of 69,602 holdings within 5 years. In the class of
" 1 acre and under," there has beea an increase within the
same period of 3,806 holdings.

The entire breadth of laud under crops in 1853 was 5,696,951
acres, which is less by 42,263 acres than (hat ia 1852 ; and
the extent in 1852 was less by 119,737 acres than in 1851.

In 1852 the counties of Clare, Donegal, King's and London-
derry, showed an increase in the extent of cultivation ; in
1853 they exhibit a decrease. Clare, between 1851 and 1852,
increased 4 per cent., aud decreased 3.3 per cent, between 1852
and 1853. Donegal showed an increase between 1851 and 1852
of 41 per cent. ; and between 1852 and 1853 a decrease of 0.3
per cent. In the King's County the extent of cultivation in
1851 and 1852 was very nearly the same ; but in 1853 it was
less by 5 per cent, than in 1852. The counties of Antrim and
Londonderry show a singular steadiness of condition in this
respect: in 1851 the extent of tillage in Londonderry was
175,134 acres; ia 1852 it was 175,785; and in 1853 it was
174,837. In Antrim the extent in 1851 was 236,147 acres;
in 1832 it was 236,377; andiu 1853 it was 236,510.

It is deserving of observation thai the counties in which
cultivation has decreased comprise every county in the province
of Leiaster, four out of the six counties in Munster, but not
one of Connaught, and only three out of nine in Ulster.

The following statement shows the extent of the increase or
decrease in each description of crop in 1853, when compared
with 1852 :—

Increase : Barley and here, 10,615 acres; beaus, 239 acres;
potatoes, 22,201 acres ; turnips, 42,587 acres ; mangel wurzel,
2,453 acres; flax, 37,571 acres; meadow, 29 acres; total,
115,695 acres. Decrease: Wheat, 26,670 acres; oats, 125,600
acres; rye, 617 acres ; peas, 1,186 acres; other green crops,
532 acres ; rape, 3,353 acres. Total, 157,958 acres ; making
a total decrease of 42,263 acres.

The general tendency since 1847 has beea to reduce the
extent of cereal crops, and to increase that of green crops. In
1847, when these agricultural inquiries commenced, and in
which there were only 281,116 acres of potatoes cultivated in
Ireland, the proportion of cereal to green crops was 4-2 acres
to 1, whereas in 1853 it was, according to the returns, about
2 to 1.

It will be found that the extent o£ the corn crops was less
in 1853 than in 1832 ia all the counties, with the e.xception
of Galway, Mayo, and Sligo ; potatoes increased in every
county with the exception of Down, Cork, and Waterford,
and the counties of Carlow, Dublin, Kildare, Kilkenny,
Louth, Meath, Queen's, V/cxford, and Wicklow; it is re-
markable that the counties which show a diminished breadth
of potatoes have all increased the extent of turnips; and the
counties of Lougford, Tipperary, Limerick, Armagh, Cavau,
Donegal, Londonderry, Monaghau, Tyrone, Galway, Roscom-
mon, and Mayo, have also extended the cultivation of turnips
as well as potatoes. No change of importance baa taken
place in the extent of "other green crops." The increase in
the flax crop is principally confined to the province of Ulster.

It will be seen that the greatest extent of land is in the
hands of farmers holding between 50 and 100 acres ; the total

524

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

area of this class being 3,855,960 acres, which is thus divided :—
29.3 per cent, is under tillage, 51.2 in grass, 0.6 in
fallow, 1.1 under wood, and 17.8 is bog, or waste. The
class next in extent comprises the landholders of between 100
and 200 acres, who together occupy 3,197,239 acres ; in this
class the proportion of tillage is 21.5 per cent.; the grass
is 52.5 per cent.; and the bog or waste is 23.4 per
cent. ; the proportion of grass land in this class is above that
in any other — the relative extent of which has increased in
each ascending class to this ; but in the two next higher it
decreases, in consequence of the great extent of "bog or
waste" which enters into the classes of farms " above 200 to
500 acres," and " above 500 acres ;" in the former this is 36
per cent., and in the latter it is 61.3 of the entire area
belonging to each class.

The total area of Ireland, as taken from the Ordnance
maps, is 20,808,271 acres, which includes 630,825 acres of
water ; this being deducted from the foregoing total, reduces
the land area to 20,177,446 acres. The total area given in
the above table of holdings is 20,189,984 acres, differing only
12,538 acres from the true area, which will be admitted to be
a very close approximation, when it is considered that the
entire area accounted for in these tables is the combined result
of information furnished voluntarily by 585,313 occupiers of
land in this country, and collected by 3,875 enumerators ;
and it may be remarked, that this excess ought to be reduced
by the number of acres contained in the " intakes" at Lough
SwiUy and Lough Foyle, and on the coast of Wexford — these
spaces having been reclaimed from the sea since the pub-
lication of the Ordnance maps, but are now included in these
returns.

The gross amount of produce of wheat was 34,639 barrels
less in 1853 than in 1852; oats decreased 1,634,530 barrels
within the same period; and here and barley increased
135,457 barrels. Upon the entire of the cereal crops there
was a decrease in the produce, between 1852 and 1853, of
134,942 tons; in potatoes there was an increase of 106,138
tons.

In considering the comparative state of agricultural produce
in the several counties the lamentable 'extent to which the
growth of weeds and the shedding of their seed is permitted
in Ireland, not only in the fields, but also on the sides of the
highways, railways, and canals, which must painfully strike
every observant person, suggested the idea that some good
might arise if public attention were drawn to the degree of
comparative care or negligence prevailing in this respect in
the different districts of Ireland ; and a form of return, classi-
fied under four heads, was accordingly prepared, for pro-
curing information on this subject, in as uniform a manner as
possible.

It is worthy of remark, that of the six counties which pre.
sent the largest amount of produce in proportion to their in.
habitants, four rank amongst those most free from weeds,
viz., Louth, Kildare, Wexford, and Meath, but Kilkenny and
Carlow are exceptions to this rule. And it is also remark-
able that of the six counties lowest in produce, five are also
in the lowest class as regards weeds, viz., Clare, Leitrim,
Sligo, Mayo, and Kerry.

The condition of the roadsides as to weeds does not differ
considerably from that of the farms in the several counties.
Fermanagh, Antrim, Cork, and Waterford are creditable ex-
ceptions, being only 14, 15, 19, and 20, in the farm list,
whilst they lank 4, 5, 6, and 8 in respect to the roadsides.
On the other hand, Wexford, Tipperary, Westmeath, and
Monaghan, which stand 5, 10, 13, and 18 as respects farms,
sink down to 19, 25, 26, and 32 iu the roadside list.

Under the head "Remai-ks," much interesting though
painful information has been given, telling of utter neglect
and carelessness, and this not only by farmers, but by some of
those whose duty it is, as public servants, to see that such
injurious nuisances are not permitted to exist upon any of
the roads entrusted to their care and superintendence j the
indolent farmer, as an apology for his neglect, declaring, and
not without some degree of justice, that it is useless for him
to clean his land whilst his fields are poisoned by the seeds of
thistles, docks, and ragweed, &c., nurtured upon the adjoining
farms and highways. It is to be hoped that public opinion
and self-interest will ere long excite a war of extermination
against " weeds" of every kind in Ireland.

The extent of land under flax in 1853 was 174,579 acres ;
the quantity grown was 43,862 tons, computed according to
the returns of produce, upon an average rate of 40 2-10th8
stones per acre.

The quantity of flax grown out of Ulster is yet of very
limited extent ; and although there was, on the whole of the
provinces of Leinster, Munster, and Conuaught, an increase
of 2,438 acres over 1852, yet it will be observed that eight
counties of these provinces exhibit a decrease, and that the
cultivation of this crop in them was less by 858 acres than in
1851.

The number of scutching mills in Ireland in 1852 was
956; in 1853, it had increased to 1,056. The principal in-
crease was, as might be expected, in the province of Ulster,
Decreases occurred in the counties of Louth, Westmeath,
Wexford, Tipperary, and Sligo.

The returns for the year 1853 show a larger increase in the
quantity of stock over those of 1852 than has occurred in any
previous year, when compared with that preceding, since these
inquiries commenced.

The total increase in horses was 14,697, that in the number
under one year old being 8,955. Cattle increased 288,242, a
very large proportion of which (121,784) was also in those
under one year old. The increase in sheep was 528,713 ;
pigs, 72,287 ; goats, 17,738 ; and poultry, 484,834.

In drawing attention to the great increase in the quantity of
stock in Ireland between 1852 and 1853, it is necessary to
observe that the returns for 1853 were taken nearly eight
weeks earlier than those for 1852 ; and there is no doubt that
during the mouths of August and September (the period
referred to) in 1853 a large reduction took place in the
quantity of stock, owing to the ordinary consumption and
the exportation to England; we ought, therefore, to know
what that reduction was, in order satisfactorily to adjust the
comparison between the stock at the respective periods ; and
though it is most desirable to complete the returns at as
early a period of the year as possible, these facts show that
it is of the next degree of importance that they should be
collected as nearly about the same date as circumstances will
permit. Another result of making the inquiries at uncertain
periods is, that a quantity of the stock is found in different
localities ; for, as winter approaches, much of that on grazing
farms is gradually removed into the dairy-yards in towns, and
is thus transferred from the farming to what may be termed the
"cottier class," and there is little doubt but that the diminished
value of stock in the hands of this class m 1853, when com-
pared with 1852, is to a great extent owing to the inquiries of
1852 not having been authorized by the Government to be
undertaken until a later period of the year.

It will be gratifying to observe that these returns contain
abundant evidence to show satisfactorily that the condition of
the agriculturists in this country ia steadily improving, and

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

525

also to indicate the comparative annual rate at which this
improvement has progressed. The total value of the stock in
1849 was £25,692,616; in 1850, £26,951,959; in 1851,
£27,737,393; inl852,£29,154,229; andin]853,£31,844,718;
which gives an increase per cent, per annum as follows : — In
1849 it was 3-5 per] cent, over that in 1847; in 1850,
4'8 over that in 1849; in] 1851, 3 per cent, over that in
1850; in 1852 5-2 per cent, over that in 1851; and in
1853, 92 per cent, over that in 1852— facts which cannot
fail to be most gratifying, and to afford deep cause of thank-
fuluess to every well-wisher of the country, more especially
when we reflect upon the gloomy seasons of distress and
suffering from which, owing to the merciful dispensations of
an omnipotent Providence, the interests, not only of the
agricultural, but of almost every class in Ireland, have so
recently emerged.

SOUTH DEVON AGRICULTURAL
ASSOCIATION.

SOUTH HAMS CATTLE AND DEVON AND CORN-
WALL POULTRY SHOWS.

The annual meeting and shows of the above associations
were held on Friday, November 3, at Plympton, when, as the
weather was fine, the combined efforts of the societies were
crowned with unusual success. The numbers attracted to
Plympton on this occasion exceeded what we have witnessed
at any former annual meetings of any mere local societies.
The three o'clock train from Plymouth especially brought
hundreds to swell the already numerous assemblage in the
cattle-yard and poultry tents ; and it is gratifying to record
that the character of the shows generally was such as to repay
the curious as well as those who for more practical purposes
visited the collections.

It has been customary for the shows of the South Devon
Agricultural Society, the South Hams Cattle Show, and the
Devon and Cornwall Poultry Show, to be held distinctly ; their
being united on this occasion proved another instance of the
value and importance of mutual aid.

The object of the first of those societies is to encourage good
farming by offering premiums for the best-kept farms, for
ploughing, and for improved agricultural implements ; together
with rewards to industrious farm labourers. Evidently there
is nothing showy and everything practical characterising it.
The promoters of the South Hams Cattle Show have in view
the improvement of stock, and although they have had many
difficulties to contend with, they brought together at this meet-
ing a creditable show of South Hams cattle, after a season that
has been unfavourable to the appearance of stock generally.
The number of entries in this class was nearly 80, and several
of them were fine specimens of their class, and received Judici-
ous mention in the awards by the judges. The show of horses
was extensive, but was confined chiefly to cart and hack horses.
The pens of sheep were very good, but the class of greatest
merit was that of the pigs, in which it is but natural to expect
Devonshire breeders to excel at home, since they do so often
when they exhibit out of the county. The show was held in a
field near the Borringdon Hotel, Plympton Station, and the im-
plement yard was in a field adjoining it. The implements were
more numerous than we have seen at former exhibitions of the
South Devon Agricultural Society, and amongst the persons
who won prizes, was Mr. Geo. Bond, a fanner who made his
own plough, and, with greater honour still, knows so well how

to handle it, that he also carried off a prize at the skirting and
ploughing match. This match was held in a field near the
Borringdon Mine, and was a capital exhibition of the ability
of the ploughmen of the district. In the implement yard was
exhibited, under a spacious marquee, the collection of Messrs.
Wm. E. Rendle and Co., seed and manure merchants, of Ply-
mouth, under the management of Mr. G. Lamoureux, which
comprised some very superior bulbs grown around the imme-
diate neighbourhood. We noticed some fine specimens of
Morton's yellow globe mangel wurtzel, green-top swedes, and
green-top Scotch yellow, sent from Hall Tors, the well-known
farm of Mr. Ford. Fine roots also of long red mangel wurtze 1
andyellowglobe.fromMr. Parnell,of Bowden. E.Tolcher, Esq.,
of Ridgway, presented someroots of purple and green-top Scotch
turnips ; and from W. Fox, Esq., Elfordleigh, very fine speci-
mens of the yellow tankards. Mr. Widdicombe, of Hay, near
Ugborough, as usual, sent some splendid specimens, especially
the long red mangel and long yellow, also yellow globe, with
some fine roots of white globe turnips ; also, some handsome
bulbs of Rendle's improved swede, of considerable weight — as
for quality, we think it would be difficult to meet with a sounder
or better swede ; some roots of Chivas's orange jelly turnip.
Messrs. Rendle also exhibited a collection of various kinds of
grasses, selected for their value in producing fine meadow and
pasture, and renovating grasses, permanent lawn grass, Italian
rye, Dickinson's Italian rye, clovers of all kinds, including the
hybrid and Bokhara varieties ; swedes, common and hybrid
turnips, of the best sorts ; cattle beet, parsnips, large white
Belgian and yellow Belgian carrots, cabbages, field varieties ;
winter prolific bens, field peas, lucerne, trefoil, lentils, Buck
wheat, oil-cake, &c., &c. ; also a collection of all the leading
manures — Peruvian and Bolivian guanos ; Lawes' patent super-
phosphate of lime, nitrate of soda, bone dust, &c.

The poultry exhibition took place in a tent adjoining the
cattle yard. There was a large show of various classes, and
several pens contained birds of first-rate order. The Dorkings
Malays, ducks, and pigeons were more particularly noticeable,
although the show in every particular fully equalled the antici-
pation of the committee. A great number of persons visited
the exhibition throughout the day, and it may be classed as one
of the most interesting features in the day's proceedings.
There were upwards of 150 pens, and many purchases were
made.

The dinner was held in a spacious tent erected at the back
of the Borringdon Hotel, decorated with flags of the allied na-
tions, and a transparency of Lord Morley's arms over the pre-
sidential seat. At four o'clock the chair was taken by the
Right Hon. Earl Morley, and upwards of four hundred persons
sat down to a most substantial dinner. The usual loyal and
patriotic toasts were given with the utmost enthusiasm.

THE MALT, BARLEY, AND HOP TRADE.— From a
Parliamentary paper recently issued, it appears that in the
year ending July 5, 1854, there were 34,003,266 bushels of
malt made and charged with duty in England and Wales,
3,785,728 bushels in Scotland, and 1,722,226 in Ireland. In
the same period 655,706 quarters of foreign barley were im-
ported into the United Kingdom. The average price of barley
during the year was 40s. per imperial quarter. 54,885 cwt.
of foreign hops were importea into the United Kingdom in
the year ending July 5, 1854, of which 5,830 cwt. 1 qr. 11 lb.
were re-exported in the year, and 10,604 cwt. remained in
bond on the 5th of July, 791,422 lb. of English hops were
exported in the year.

526

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

FARM SCHOOLS.
THE ClIiLDSEN OF LONDON STS,EETS.

[The foHowing paper has been forwarded to us by an old cor-
respondeui;, with a request that we will gira it in our columuSj
although it has already appeared in those of one of our
respected contemporaries.]

Sir, — I have read your pamphlet, "Loudon Shadov/s, a
Glance at the Homes of the Thousands," wherein you describe
with so much good feeling aud truth the dreadful scenes
which may be found by any who will take the trouble to see
for themselves.

No doubt it is a fact that thousands of childreu in London
and other places are in the greatest misery and destitution,
with the prospect that a large proportion of them will, if un-
aided, be tempted to dishonesty and crime from their positive
inability to find for themselves the means "to learn and labour
truly" to get their " own living" by honest industry. At pre-
sent there are two great evils; the one alluded to above, the
other a decided and increasing scarcity of agricultural labourers
and working mechanics, which may, if unchecked, greatly
affect the value of property. The important problem is, how
we can best make cue cf these evils a means of counteracting
the other, and so provide a remedy for both.

All classes are likely to ask, " What can we do" to abate the
evils alluded to ? And most of them have the power and will
to do something. I shall take the liberty of giving them a few
hints. Other editors and their correspondents may, and no
doubt they will, assist you by giving publicity to auy sugges-
tion that seems likely to be valuable. As this is no mere
party question, we may hope for a full and fair discussion of
whatever seems feasible. As a very imperfect plan is better
than none, if it leads to a full discussion and the adoption of
a good one that might not otherwise have been thought of,
the following is offered for consideration : — To appoint
honorary local trustees to visit and superintend small farms
taken for orphan, and destitute, but honest children, to culti-
vate in fine and suitable weather .

The children could not only cultivate their own garden farm,
but do work for others, by contract, as a means of increasing
their income. Agricultural tools are generally much heavier
than is necessary; but all useless weight is mere waste of
strength, as it diminishes the capability of doing useful work.
By making tools of the lightest and best materials, childreu
might be made much more useful. The Royal Agricultural
Society have already awarded a medal for improved forks and
spades, and will be glad to promote the improvement of all
agricultural tools aad implements. When the weather was not
suitable for " out-door-work," the children could not only
learn to read, write, and keep accounts (especially such accounts
as would bear on their own farm and their present and
prospective employment), but they could learn to do " indoor-
work."

If all details were carried out in the best possible manner
for making their labour productive, it is probable that, under
favourable circumstances, such as where labour is dear and land
cheap, children seven years of age might be kept and partly
educated from that time for three years without costing £6
more than they had earned ; and such sum, if advanced to
them as a friendly loan, which they were to repay as soon as
they could, would in many cases be returned ; as all would be
taught that whether it was returned or not would constitute a

part of their chatacter, and prove whether they had deserved
he friendly assistance of others. It would not be prudent to
dismiss the children (except for bsd conduct) before they were
likely to obtain other employment ; but after ten years of age
they might be so useful on their garden farm as to earn ail
they cost.

The conduct and qualities of each child should be registered
in a book, so that visitors who had the means of promoting
the welfare of the deserving might, on inspectinj^ the register
of each school, be able to see at once what the character of
each child was stated to be. The walls of the school-room
might be usefully covered with lists of children who wanted
employment, and employers v.'ho had work for young persona.
By judicious and systematic training the children might be-
come the best workmen of this country, and the best class of
emigrants for the colonies ; and by a good system of registra-
tion they might have ageuts in every part of her Majesty's
dominions. There should be local management for each school,
but the great central societies would be glad to become useful
correspondents.

To do all this some funds are necessary ; and where are
they ? it may be asked. My answer is, that although this is
not to be considered a mere charitable institution, it probably
would be, in many cases, judicious to lend any old charity
funds now unemployed, or that are available ; and that many
new funds might be made available, as probably there would
be, by such meana, as large a proportion of real good done for
the money so lent and expended, as by any other that has
hitherto been tried. Perhaps part of the income of " Smith's
Charity," and several others, would be available ; and it may
be a question whether that part of the funds of the " Patriotic"
Society which will be devoted to the orphans would not be
most serviceable in some such form as this. If it was clear
that an orphan child could have a fair chauce of earning its
own living at a small risk of £6, many friends would be willing
to advance that, who at present merely consider such cases
hopeless.

To render such institutions popular, it would be essential to
take care that those who had in equity and strict justice the
first claim for admission, should in all cases be the first to
share the advantages to be derived from them ; and by this
rule the orphans of the neighbourhood would be entitled to a
preference, except in very peculiar cases.

I have thrown out these suggestions, not with the idea that
they are the best that can be adopted, but that others may im-
prove on them.

If each farmers' clab appointed a committee to report on this
subject, they would be able to inform us what work could be
found for the children, and what they would be likely to cost,
in any particular locality, beyond what their income would be
from their farm and labour.

The society for promoting the amendment of the law might
have a committee to inform us what alterations, if any, are
necessary to be made ia the law before any such system can be
fully carried out, and what charitable funds are, or might be
made, available for lending for such objects.

The Society for Improving the Condition of the Working
Classes would be able to give much useful information ; and
the oflicers of that and similar institutions might assist in col

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

527

lecting and circulating iufcrmation likely to promote the
objects in view.

Mr. Wolrych Wliitmore and others have tried plans to a
certain extent with a similar object : probably they will all be
happy to supply auy advice their experience may suggest.

It would be of great importance to have suitable masters to
superintend the children. To save expense, they should
generally be selected from those who have some income from
other sources, which, added to this employment, would render
them independent, whilst they woidd have the satisfaction of
being useful members of the community.-

In some eases, the wounded " sappers and miners," if possess-
ing the requisite experience and knowledge of agriculture, and
other matters, would be peculiarly suitable, from their profes-
sional knowledge, and from their habits of regularity, discipline,
and order.

It is proverbial that a fresh job is almost as good as a rest,
and this is particularly true with children; so they should not
in any case be too long engaged at the same work, but their
work should be judiciously blended with amusement, and this
amusement should be instructive ; and all should be consistent
with giving health, strength, activity of body and mind, so as
to give instruction in all things likely to be useful, amusing,
and creditable to the children.

Probably nearly all the interesting accomplishments of the
boys in the Duke of York's military school iu London might
be profitably attained as amusement for children in industrial
country schools.

If in lieu of the present child's-play " at soldiers," they were
taught to fence, and march in military order to their work and
to church ; if on two or three nights a week they learned
military and sacred music, and practised the latter especially
on Sundays, they would not he less able to work at other times;
but these exercises would not only keep them out of mischief,
but be attractive of the attention of the gentry of the neigh-
bourhood, who, in return, might be invited to suggest any new
means of usefully and profitably employing the time of such
children.

If with the ready and zealous assistance of the press, and the
co-operation of all such societies &s are alluded to above, any
one large land-owner will take up tke question in earnest, and
get two or three of his most intelligent tenants to a ssist him
all apparent difiiculties will soon vanish ; but as it isimportant,
to prevent mistakes in the first experiment, every step should
be well considered before it is taken.

By mutual co-operation, such as is here suggested, surely it
is possible for a " practical people," such as we are said to be,
to arrange some general plan, by which the whole body of
children now exposed to useless wretchedness may have a fair
chance of earning their own living, and by that means not only
supply the present deficiency of good labourers, but also
greatly contribute to the power and wealth of their country.

B A HUGH AlMACK.

LINCOLNSHIRE RAMS.

Sir, — I have this season seen many Lincolnshire rams, and
I find the breeders of them are making great improvements in
their fore-quarters ; the most enlightened men are aiming to
get them wider between their fore-kgs, with large full-of-flesh
bosoms ; not, they say, large bosoms with wool left on them
when clipped which grew the year before. The Lincolnshire
men shear their sheep close to the skin ; they can grow, say
they, plenty of wool in one year, without leaving part of two
years' wool to make them appear to have more wool than they
really grow, which is a mockery, a delusion, and a snare. The

Lincolnshire breeders will not swallow old wool left upon
sheep. Some of the breeders of Lincolns are trying hard to
produce large lean necks and docks— not fat necks and docks —
with large full thighs, wide chines, broad shoulders, with the
Bakewell barrel form, clifted from the rump end all through
the back and shoulders ; the head fine, long, clean, and thin,
with a lively eye; wide in the loin, and carrying the head so
high that the nose is perpendicular with the large breast, and
flat clean from wool; leg-bones with flanks like ripe oxen, yet
not too much garbage : a large flank denotes a stroag stamina.

The following ia a specimen of the test kind of Lincoln-
shire sheep:—" Mr. Clarke, of Long Sutton, Lincolnshire, ex-
hibited at the Newcastle meeting a Lincolnshire ewe, which
was slaughtered, and weighed GS^lbs. per quarter." —
Farineis' Magazine, September, 1854. *

The great wether sheep of the Lincolnshire breed, slaugh.
tered at Brigg, about 15 years back, weighed 761b3. per
quarter, and weighed publicly. The late Mr. Israel Brice
bred many sheep, both for wool and mutton, and took many
prizes in this county. He sold, last year, at home, five sheep
at llQl. ; and his son, Mr. Edward Brice, sold, this year, the
same number for 150?., which, coupled with Mr. Kirkham'a
high prices at Peterborough fair, show in what high estimation
the loug-woolled Lincolns are held. Taking the Lincolnshire
sheep for weight of wool and mutton per acre, or for profit,
where turnips and clover can be produced, they are perhaps
unequalled. S. A.

Rishy House, October 26<A, 1854.

SUPPOSED ANTIDOTE AGAINST THE

POTATO DISEASE.

Sir, — The result of every inquiry or experiment tending to
throw light on the mysterious failure of the potato, is worthy
of attention ; and whether the cause is atmospherical, or
whether the disease arises from the want of some element in
the earth to promote its growth, are points for investigation.

Acting upon the latter theory, and knowing that where we
found the potato diseased the stalks have generally gone pre-
maturely to decay, I was induced to try the follpwiag experi-
ment with a view to stimulate the growth of the stalk. Having
a small plot of land, I grew potatoes on it for three years in
succession, and the last year (1853) two-thirds of the potatoes
were diseased. In the spring of, this year, I planted half the
same laud with potatoes, manured as usual ; the other half I
planted in a similar way with the addition of silicate of potash,
which was neither more nor less than clinkers, or half vitrified
residuum of coal, adhering to the grate of furnaces. This I
caused to be ground very fine, and placed in the rows with the
manure. The produce which I have now got is all right ; the
stalks remaining greeu and strong up to the time the potatoes
were taken up, while in the other half plot of land the stalks
decayed early and the potatoes were very much diseased. For
the information of the agriculturist, the article can be got in
almost any quantity for merely carrying it away ; the only ex-
pense will be the grinding, and it requires to be ground as fine
as possible. I have to add, that I consider the clinkers superior
to ashes for this purpose, inasmuch as ashes produced from
wood (potashes) require siliceous earth to be added and fused
with them ; coal, on the other hand, contains a considerable
quantity of silicious earth and alumina or clay, which only
chemically combines when melted or vitrified. In this neigh-
bourhood the clinkers art always rejected by the agriculturists,
and wheu used at all, it is only for repairing public roads.

I have the honour to be. Sir, your very obedient servant,

Hunslel, near Leeds. T. B.

528

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

MR. TELFER'S FARM.

At the last meeting of the Royal Agricultural
Improvement Society of Ireland, Mr. C. W.
Hamilton gave his experiences of a late tour in
Scotland, in the course of which he made it his
business to visit some of the more celebrated of
our northern friends. Without intending in any
way to j"e-open a controversy that may very w^H
rest where it is, we think the following descrip-
tion, after what has been said, will be not without
interest to our readers. We may first observe as
regards the sheep question, that our frequently ex-
pressed wish was to get to the truth of Mr. Caird's
facts. He stated that twenty-five tons of hay was
made, whereas the fifty sheep was merely an opin-
ion that, as Mr. Hamilton himself shows, was
hardly worth while going into : —

"Let us now turn to Mr. Telfer's, of Cunning Park, close
to the town of Ayr ; it is to this farm that I think we shall
probably be indebted for the most accurate and reliable infor-
mation. Mr. Telfer seems anxious to weigh, measure, and
record accurately, and to have truth as his object ; and it is
deeply to be regretted that so much mischief has been done by
Mr. Caird's assertions — made without any foundation, except
his careless adoption of Mr. Telfer's naturally sanguine calcu-
lations as to what might be possible, as if they were founded
on actual measurement.* I shall not take up your time by
alluding to the leading articles and letters on this subject in
the Mark Lane Express ; they all bear upon the question of
how much hay may be supposed to represent a certain weight
of fresh-cut soil, and this hypothetical quantity is taken as
the exponent of the productive powers of the crops. It ap-
pears to me that the number of animals fed, or meat and milk
produced, is a hetter exponent, until more accurate informa-
tion is attainable. But the Marh Lane Express has not re-
ferred to what I think by far the most unsupported part of
Mr. Caird's statement, namely, that it involved the question
of supporting 50, instead of 5 sheep to the acre. When I
come to show how little the 50 sheep would be dependent
upon the rented acre, and how much upon bought food,
you will see that it would be as rational to say that
the man who, on some great occasion, summoned
caterers from afar to supply an ample feast for 50
guests, instead of 5 usual members of his family, had
found a source for indefinite hospitality, and was, moreover,
on the highway towards the accumulation of wealth. If
Mr. Caird had taken the pains to make some inquiry from
Mr. Telfer as to the grounds of what he really put forward as
only an hypothesis, he would have found him perfectly candid,
and anxious to search out the truth.

" Cunning Park contains only 40 Scotch acres, of which 20
are under pipes, and 11 under Italian rye-grass ; it is a flat,
level surface, and consists of poor, sandy soil, worth very little
in its natural state ; but the tiller of rich, heavy loams must

* Mr. Caird : " It was not obtained at one> but at three cuttings ;
and he took somewhat about 100 tons of green grass. This was
a fact. They might woiidSr and be aDtonished, for it involved a
question of from 5 to 50 sheep, and 5 to 25 tons of hay, as com-
pared with the soil in this country."

not imagine that, therefore, Mr. Telfer is working at a dis-
advantage. On the contrary, a porous soil seems to be the
first condition for ensuring success ; every gardener who aims
at the production of fibrous roots and luxuriant foliage in his
forcing-houses seeks for pure sand and the lightest of vege-
table matters as the medium for supplying the roots with water.

"The system of distribution is the same on all the farms
visited, and one hydrant to about six acres.

" Mr. Telfer's is strictly a dairy establishment, and, from
being within a few minutes' walk of the flourishing town of
Ayr, must, under any circumstances, be very profitable. No
description can give an idea of the perfect order and cleanli*
ness that pervades the whole establishment. The cow-house
contains 48 cows in a double row, two to each stall ; the floor
is entirely of white flags, kept as scrupulously clean as the
kitchen of an English house ; the drain behind the cattle is
fitted with an iron perforated plate which lets the liquid pass
off at once into the tank, while a shovel, made to fit exactly
into the rectangular portion above the iron plate, carries
away all the solid manure, which is also conveyed into the
tank. There is no litter used, but the fore part of the stalls
is covered with thick cocoa-nut mats, which cost IDs. each,
supplying two cows ; and, as some which had been down for
three years seemed little the worse for wear, the expense of
this substitute for litter is very trifling. The side-walls are
skirted with large slates, as more easily cleaned ; and there are
many windows, both in the sides and roof, which open to give
air, and have also blinds of cocoa-nut fibre, so ingeniously
arranged that pulling a slight cord enables the cow-herd to
darken the house whenever flies become troublesome.

" There is an air channel underneath the floor, by which
fresh air is introduced as it is usually in churches. The food
is brought in by the centre passage in a large box with three
wheels, which runs over the flags with the greatest ease. There
is no provision for supplying water to the troughs, and I
believe that the expenditure upon contrivances to give water
to cattle by pipes, as at Mr. Littledale's, near Birkenhead,
and Mr. Lawson's, at Burnturk, is not in any way to be xe-
commended, for the small quantity that cattle living on green
food drink can be easily brought in in buckets.

" The steam-engine, with its connected appliances for chaflf-
ing, steaming food, pumping water from the river, and again
forcing the liquid manure through the pipes, is placed at one
end of the byre and the tank, which is open* and surrounded
by a high wall, is at the other ; the weighing machine very
conveniently placed at one side, so that every cart must pass
over it. The dairy is connected with the building, and with-
out the ornamental expenditure upon marble and painted glass,
which gives Mr. Littledale's dairy the stamp of wealth seeking
an outlet, has all the beauty of perfect fitness in every part,
everything that is necessary for cleanliness and the regulation
of temperature, and nothing that is not useful. Mr. Telfer
gets the highest price for his fresh butter from a Jermyn-
street dealer who supplies the nobility in that part of London,
and this sufiiciently shows its cpiality.

"Now, let us try to calculate what the purchase of Italian
ryegrass may have been. The stock kept on the farm is 48

* In these open tanks there was no visible disengagement of
gaS) and no smell of ammonia ; there had been some accumula-
tion of vegetable matter, which Mr. Telfer used eulphurie acid to
reduce.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

529

cows and two horses, which we may consider as equivalent to
50 head ; his statement to me was that the cows get 4 stones
of soil per diem, and SOlbs. cabhage per diem in summer, with
one feed of compound 4Ibs. to 81bs. — say, average 61bs. — of
chaffed hay; lib. toSlbs. — say, 21b8.— of oilcake; the oilcake
all made into flour, and steamed with the chaff.

" In winter, grated mangels, fresh and not fermented, are
substituted for the soil ; the winter supply of hay is bought,
and, as the little hay that was made from the Italian ryegrass
was chiefly consumed before October, I think it safe, in the
absence of more correct measurement, to include the summer
hay in the produce of the eleven acres, at one stone anda-half
per diem to each ; total consumption, five stones and a-half
would be only 33 tons per acre. If 74 tons had been realized
per acre, each animal must have consumed, at least, fourteen
stouea per diem, independent of oilcake, on the supposition
thst the supply lasted six months, which it scarcely does.

" At Mr. Rolstoa's, of Dunduff, near Carrick, the dwelling-
house and homestead are on a hill, and water is supplied from
a still higher level. The tank is an open one, and surrounded
by a wall, and cost about £30 ; and fifty acres are watered by
the force of gravitation, which, aa they are at a very much lower
level, distributes the liquid-manure from the hydrants with
great power. The drawback is the expense of carrying the
soil home, which is probably about five times that of Mr. Tel-

fer's. Mr. Rolston has this year kept six Ayrshire dry cows,
of about 5 to 6 cwt. to the acre, all the summer. Now, if each
animal consumed six stones daily*, and the supply lasted six
months, the acreable quantity would be about forty tons.

" I think it proved that by the constant application of liquid
manure at least from 25 to 30 tons of green Italian ryegrass
may be raised from the statute acre, equivalent to from about
7 to 9 tons of hay. Now, assuming 8J tons of rye-grass =
2^ ton of hay to be a good crop under ordinary circumstances,
we have a gain of 6 j tons of hay, at the outside, to the pro-
duction of which Mr.Telfer has expended

1 ton guano — say £11 0 0

8 cwt. of the share per acre and oil-
cake consumed, at 10s 4 0 0

15 0 0

and, if hay is valued at £4 per ton, he has made a pro6t of
£11, a very considerable sum, but not involving the question
of 50 instead of 5 sheep.

" I have no doubt that Mr. Telfer and Mr. Kennedy have
weighed and measured fairly what they undertook, but suspect
that the small sample taken was the best ; and compare their
general returns with those of the Royal Dublin Society, who
placard mangel crop 110 tons to the acre, which, if every root
was equal to the prize, might he just possible."

ON FEEDING OFF MILDEWED GREEN CROPS.

I have never known such a general attack of
mildew upon the turnip crop as this season pre-
sents. It is equally bad upon the coleseed (rape-
seed) crop. Some fields of the latter, within my
observation, have become valueless. One instance
I name, in particular : it was a field, fairly grown,
containing much green food : the whole, with a few
trivial exceptions, was so virulently attacked as to
gradually droop and decay. Many others are nearly
as far gone ; and the whole crop, so far as I have seen
it, is most injuriously affected. The turnip crop is
more varied. Some fields have escaped without
serious damage ; as a whole, however, the crop is
generally injured. The early swedes and common
turnips suffered most.

The disease is so well known, I need not describe
it, nor its effects upon these crops, further than to
say that it greatly retards their growth, prevents
the acquirement of those constituents in the bulb
of the turnip which gives to it its nutritive qualities,
and in its top or leaves, as also in the coleseed
plant, causes them to become woody and fibrous ;
and therefore comparatively indigestible. More-
over, nearly all the lower leaves and branches are
• decayed, and most of them dead and rotten.

With the view of preventing great losses in our
flocks from the consumption of this unwholesome
food, I have called attention to it. I regret to say
that little has at any time been recorded by our
writers on sheep husbandry upon this subject ; in-

deed, not much scientific attention has yet been
given to the diseases of sheep in general, the past
few years excepted, and the acquired knowledge
of these years is not widely diffused. I have
searched, in vain, for useful information upon this
point ; all I can gather is this (and it is well known
to every one) — that the feeding-off, for any
lengthened time, any unwholesome or indigestible
food, will produce inflammatory symptoms, which,
if not speedily stopped, will cause death. Now
this tendency to create inflammation we want
to counteract, to overcome.

I wish some of our talented veterinary surgeons
would take up the question, as being one of great
importance in a season like the present, when
almost every crop in every part of the country is
suffering from it. I think they would be able to
point out some preventive treatment or useful
remedy against its injurious effects. I confess I
see reasons for serious apprehension as to the
healthiness of our flocks during the ensuing winter,
and I earnestly beg all flockmasters to look well to
them, to keep a watchful eye upon their progress,
and if that is not satisfactory, by all means resort im-
mediately to theusual course of change of food , or the
addition of those invaluable aids to the consumption

• 211)3 meadow hay ~ 1201bs. turnips ; and, according to Mr.
Telfer's calculation, of 3.5,

6 stones soil = 10 stones turnips, or

=i 8 stones turnips, and 27 lbs. of wheat straw.
— Joht.ston, p. 1,029.

THE FAiirJ^'R^S iL

:ne

of green crops — cake, corn in nearly all its
varieties, malt-coomb, chaff, hay, and even plenty of
good straw, both to eat and for lair. Common salt
is an excellent condiment. Rock salt is good, and
twice during the winter the sheep should have a
diuretic drench. It should be remembered that
nearly all flocks? have had a very trying summer : the

drought caused great scarcity both of food and
water, consequently they are not so well prepared
for v/intering, even if the winter food was never so
good and nutritious; but to put ill-conditioned
flocks upon unpalatable indigestible food is sure to
be followed by great loss, unless timely foreseen
and provided for.

ON THE MANUFACTURE OF FISH-MANURE.

At the last sittiag of the Imperial and Central Agri-
cultural Society, Messrs Payen and Pommier presented
thfrir report of the e\aminatioa made by them, en behalf
of the Society, of the works at Concarneau, where
Messrs. De Ivlolon and Thurneysea have established a
manuf icture of fish manure, on the same principle as
that formed by th^m three years since on the Island of
Newfoundland. We extract from that report, pre-
sented by M. Pommier, the following passages, which
appear to us deserving of the serious consideration of
agriculturists and others, interested in the largest possible
developement of our agricultural capabilities.

" As soon as his younger brother was established at
Newfoundland, M. de Melon, who had secured the
co-operation of M. Thurneysen, was desirous of having,
in France also, a similar manufacture, which, under his
immediate inspection, might enable him to give greater
efficiency to the means of manufacture, and to afford to
all, a practical confirmation of facts, the importance of
which has for a long period been the settled conviction
of his mind. He therefore established a factory at
Concarneau (l^'inisierre), between L' Orient and Brest.

" At 5rour sittiDg of the 3rd of July, you appointed
M. Payen and m'self to visit this factory, and I now
present to you the results of our investigation.

" Concarneau is the chief place of the Canton, situated
about 24 kiloiii'^aes from Quimper. This place is
easy of access from many points of the high road from
Nantes to Brest, hy good local roads, made about ten
years since.

"This little city, which scarcely contains 2,000
inhabitants, is situated on a rock in the middle of a bay
formed by the ocean, in which it has a good port.
Formerly the only access to it was by a ferry-boat ; but
now on the north side there is a bridge, whilst on the
south side, it is still accessible only by the ferry or other
boats.

" The popuktiou of Concarneau are almost entirely
fishermen, and from 300 to 400 boats are annually
employed in the Sardine fishery. The curing of the
fiah is almost the only employment of the people.

"M. de Moioa has fixed his establishment at the
bottom of the port, and the boats load and unload under
the very walls of the factory. When in full work it can
manufacture 5,000 kilogrammes (upwards of four tons)
of fish-manure per day, in a perfectly dry state. This
quantity represents about from 16,000 to 20,000 kilo-
grammes of fish, or refuse of fish in a fresh state.

"M. de Molon obtains for, it all the refuse of the
fish-curing establishments of Concarneau, as well as
those of L'Orient ; besides all those coarser kinds of
lish vi'hich were formerly thrown acrain into the sea, or
left upon the quays and beach of Concarneau, to the
detriment of the public health,

"The factory building is constructed entirely of poplar
boards, in the most economical way ; and the following
is the apparatus contained in it for the manufacture of
the fish -manure : —

"A steam-engine of ten -horse power, and a steam-
boiler of eighteen-liorse power ; two double coppers,
for cooking the fish by heat, and hung on gudgeons ;
twenty-four lever presses, to press the fish after cooking ;
a rasp, similar to those used in the beet-sugar manufac-
tories ; a large stove, heated by one of Chaussenot's
calorifiers ; a conic mil!, similar to a coffee or gypsum
mill.

" The following are the details of the different opera-
tions in which these utensils are employed : —

" The fish or refuse, is first put into the inner recep-
tacle of the boiler, which contains about 600 kilo-
grammes*. The charge being completed, and the copper
hermetically closed, a jet of steam is introduced between
the outer and inner sides, heated to about 3| atmo-
spheres. The steam circulates between the two sides of
the boilers, which are only about two inches apart, and
into a tube about eight inches diameter, placed upright
in the inner boiler. An hour suffices to complete the
cooking ; when, by an easy movement, the copper is
made to turn upon the gudgeons, the steam escapes,
and the cover being removed, the cooked fish falls on
the floor, and is immediately conveyed by the workmen
in baskets to the presses, which are placed near the
coppers.

" Considerable difficulty was experienced, at first, in
contriving to submit the cooked materials to the action
of the presses, without losing the most valuable parts )
but this difficulty has been overcome in the following
manner : —

" Under each press is placed a cylinder of iron, about
16 inches high and 12 in diameter. This cylinder,
strengthened by four small iron hoops, is pierced full
of very fine holes. The cooked fish is put into this
cylinder, which is placed over a wooden plate adjusted

* One of the coppers wowld hold from 800 to 1,000
kilogrammes.

THE FARMER'S .MAGAZLNK.

531

to its interior circutaference. Tiie cyliuder being filled
to the top, another wooden plate is placed upon it. A
weight or two are put upon the plate ; and when all the
cylinders are charged, one of the workmen turns alter-
nately the screw of each press. In proportion as the
pressure takes effect, the water and oilcontaintd in the
fish are seen to drain from the holes in the cylinder.
These liquids flow through troughs placed beneath, into
a common reservoir, under which are casks, so arranged
that the overflow of one is received into the next, and
so on till the whole are filled, without any other trouble.
After remaining some time, the oil swims at top, and is
collected into barrels, and placed in the vaults. The
average quantity of fish-oil thus extracted, amounts to
nearly 2k per cent, the weight of the fresh fish.

'■' When the cooked fish is pressed sufficiently, the
presses are loosened, the cylinders raised and turned
upside down, in order to draw off the liquids that may
have accumulated on the surface. Then, by striking
the lower wooden plate, the pressed fish drops from the
cylinder in the form of two compact cakes, each about
four inches in thickness. These cakes are then taken and
placed in the hopper of the rasp, which, being worked by
the steam-engine, soon reduces them to a pulp. This is
conveyed by children to the stove, which occupies the
first storey, and is about 60 feet long and 16 feet wide.
It is divided into five compartments of about three feet
wide each. Along these are placed 20 boxes, 39 inches
long by 34 wide, with a bottom of coarse cloth. On
these are piled four other boxes to each, making in
each compartment 100 boxes, or 500 for the whole
stove.

" An opening, closed with a moveable board, at each
extremity of the stove, coiTesponds with each of the five
storeys of the compartment, and in the interior of the
stove each series of boxes is placed upon boards. When
one of these boxes is charged with the cooked fish, it is
placed in the stove at the opening referred to above. A
second drives it forward, the third the second, and so on
until the whole 20 are placed in the compartment. A
board is then put over the whole, and a second tier is
driven in, in like manner ; then the third, fourth, and
fifth ; when the compartment is closed. This operation
of charging the whole stove occupies about two hours.

"A current of air, heated to about 60° or 70° from
Chaussenot's calorifier, and drawn by a draught chimney,
circulates through these five compartments, in propor-
tion as each of them is charged with the boxes of fish.
As soon as the last tier is inserted, the first, which is
then dried, is withdrawn, and fresh tiers are placed.
The operation is very simple. A child, placed at the
upper end of the stove, places the newly-filled box,
which pushes, without any great efl'ort, the whole series
of boxes placed seriatim on the plank, and drives out at
the lower end, the first of the 20 boxes of dried matter,
which is received by another child. Another box is
then introduced, which performs the same operation,
and so on until the whole of the dried boxes arc removed
and replaced by the fresh ; the workmen or children
being protected from the heat, which is confined to the
interior of the stove, and being able at (he same time to

communicate with each other respecting the work by
means of the compartments, which serve to convey the
voice.

"This stove is worthy of all your attention, as
forming one of the most important branches of the
system of M. de Molon. It dries quick, and with
regularity, expending comparatively but little fuel, 100
kilograii.mes of charcoal per day, being sufficient for
heating the calorifier. The putting in and withdrawing
the materials, subjected to the action of the heat being
all exterior, the workmen suffernothing from the opera-
tion; and we have shown you with what ease the con-
tinuous use of the stove is rendered available.

"As the dried matter is withdrawn from the com-
partments, it is laid on one side upon a floor, from
whence a child, by means of a shovel, throws it into the
hopper of the mill, by which it is reduced to powder
perfectly dry and fine. The specimen of this powder
now presented to you, was taken from under the mill.

" From the mill, it is put into sacks or barrels for send-
ing away at the instant, in order that no opportunity-
may occur for introducing extraneous matters. The
proportion of dry and pulverized manure obtained, is
equal to 22 per cent, of the fresh fish.

" For all the processes, they employ in the establish-
ment of Concarneau only six men, at If. 25c. each per
day, and ten children, who are paid from 50c. to 60c.
per day. With these, without any night work, the
manufactory can turn out from 4,000 to 5,000 kilo-
grammes (nearly five tons) of dry manure, which repre-
sents nearly 18,000 to 20,000 kilogrammes of fish, or
refuse of fish, in the natural state.

" By working at night, which will take place next sea-
son, after a more regular and complete arrangement for
obtaining the fish, the establishment will produce in 24
hours, from 8,000 to 10,000 kilogrammes of manure.
M. de Melon estimates the number of working- days at
from 200 to 230, during which the fishermen can work
in the course of the year. If we reckon only 200 dftys,
the establishment of Concarneau would, therefore, pro-
duce 1,600 to 2,000 tons of manure per annum. This
would be sufficient to dress from 5,000 to 6,000 hectares
(or from 12,500 ;to 15,000 acres) of land, at the rate of
300 to 400 kilogrammes per hectare. This quantity,
according to the return in dry manure, of 22 per cent,
of the v/eight of green fish, represents an annual fishery
of from 9,000 to 10,000 tons of fish.

<' The Sardine fishery, and the refuse of the manufac-
tories formerly thrown away, may furnish nearly half
this quaniity ; but M. de Molon suggests a means which
affords a certainty of obtaining, at Concarneau, still
greater quantities of fish than are stated above.

" At the time of the wars of the Empire, during the
blockade, cod-fish was extremely scarce in France.
There was then caught on the coast of Bretagne a fish
called a " raerlue," a species of cod, which was dressed
and salted, and sold in immense quantities for the use
of the peasantry. There are periods when these fish
are met with in shoals, but at present the fishermen do
not go after them, because they have no sale for them :

oi-2

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

but Providence directs us thither now, that we may take
the fish and make use of them in another manner.

" The establishment at Concarneau, with the means
of fishing that Messrs. de Molon and Thurneysen in-
tend to procure (namely, 60 or 70 well-equipped boats)
might, therefore, by doubling his present apparatus,
(which has been foreseen and provided), quadruple the
quantity of dry manure that is now produced, by working
only ten hours per day.

" We have stated above, that the personnel of the es-
tablishment consist of six men and ten children ; we
should add, that the consumption of coals is 230 kilo-
grammes (rather above 4 cwt.) per day. Of this, 130
kilogrammes are consumed by the steam-engine, and
100 kilogrammes by the Chaussenot Calorifiier, which
heats the stove. We should also add, that the fish oil
extracted by the presses, is in the proportion of 2| per
cent, of the live weight, and that it sells readily at from
80c. to If. per kilogramme (or from 4d. to 5d. per lb.)
Lastly, the manure sells at 20f. per 100 kilogrammes
(or about 9s. per cwt.) at the port of shipment. We
have also ascertained by analysis, that the fish-manure
contains 12 per cent, of azote, and 22 per cent, of
phosphate.

"The most competent authorities in England, esti-
mate that the cultivator ought not to pay more for azote,
than 5^d. the English pound, or If. 26c. per kilo-
gramme ; and for phosphates, not more than Id. per
lb., or 23c. per kilogramme ; for phosphoric acid 3d.
per lb., or 69c. per kilogramme. Let us now take
these prices and apply them to the fish-manure, and we
shall obtain the following result of 100 kilogrammes : —

Fr. Cent.

12 kilogrammes of azote at If. 26c 15 12

22 ,, phosphates at 23c.... 5 06

Value.. 20 18

You have seen above, that M. de Molon had fixed the
pr^ce of the fish-manure at 20f. the 100 kilogrammes.
On the same principle the price of guano might be
ascertained thus :—

Fr. Cent.

10 per cent, of azote at If. 26c 12 60

14 ,, phosphate at 23c. 3 22

Value 15 82

"According to this, 100 kilogrammes of guano is
worth 4f. 36c. less than 100 kilogrammes of fish ma-
nure, and is sold at from 8f. to lOf. more— that is to
say, at 28f. to 30f.— at Havre. In other words, the
fish manure will produce the azote to the farmer at If.
26c, the kilogramme, and the phosphate at 23c. the
kilogramme ; whilst, in the form of guano, the azote
costs 2f. 20c. the kilogramme, and the phosphates 50c.
the kilogramme. This shows the importance to the
farmer of the introduction of fish manure.

" The details of the factory, as taken from the books
of the establishment, have convinced us that the manu-
facture of fish manure is an industrial operation which
must yield great profits upon the capital engaged in it—
a circumstauce which we refer to, only because it im-

parts an incontestable character of permanence to an
enterprise, which must necessarily bestow immense ad-
vantages upon agriculture, whose interests always oc-
cupy the first place in the sympathies of the Imperial
and Central Society.

•' As we have stated above, the factory at Concarneau
was founded by Messrs. de Molon and Thurneysen only
as a type of those which they may establish, not only
on other points of the French coast, but also abroad.
Already, Messrs. de Molon have, at Newfoundland, a
manufacture which can, in its present condition, furnish
annually, from eight to ten thousand tons of manure ;
but they propose, as well on that coast, as upon others
in the North Seas, to form large establishments, which
may, according to their estimates, supply to our agricul-
ture, a quantity of fish-manure at least equal to that
which is extracted from the Peruvian Isles in the form
of guano— that is to say, from 300,000 to 350,000 tons
per annum.

" The quantities of fish which are enclosed in certain
seas, at different periods of the year, are so great, that
they dare not state the amount for fear of being accused
of exaggeration ; and yet the imagination, in dwelling
upon the immensity of the ocean, may readily figure to
itself the innumerable quantities of animals which it en-
closes, and which Providence, as we have already re-
marked, has placed within our reach, to afford us the
means of satisfying the ever-increasing wants of
humanity.*

" The Committee whom the Society has deputed to
examine the memoir of M. De Molon, will tell you, gen-
tlemen, what amount of azote and phosphate can be
furnished by the quantity of fish-manure, which they
propose to manufacture and introduce into France.
Our object here, is to give you an account of what we
have seen and learned, in the visit you have directed
us to pay to the factory at Concarneau.

' ' There we have been able to verify, that the facts
advanced by M. De Molon were perfectly correct, that
the agricultural population of the country, who have
made trial of the manure, see in it, on their part, the

* "The produce of the cod-fishery of Newfoundland,
reckoning the fresh fish, amounts annually to 1,400,000
tons, of which about 700,000 tons are made use of, and
700,000 tons cast, in puie loss, into the sea, or left on the
shore. If these 700,000 tons of refuse of the fish, were col-
lected, pressed, dried, and pulverized, they would produce
more than 150,000 tons of a powder, containing all the proper-
ties of the best Peruvian guano.

"Copy of a correspondence from the United States:^

" ' All the south portion of the State of Connecticut being
bounded by the Long Island Strait, the agricultural interests
of that portion of the territory are prodigiously favoured, in
consequence of the rich manure procured by the immense
quantity of fish which are annually caught in the Strait during
the month of May. The nets used in this fishery, are so
large, that they contain at once half a million of fish called
" white fish." This fish weighs from one to two pounds each;
I have sometimes even seen 800,000 taken at one single
draught of the net. This fish commonly sells from 50 to 75
cents the thousand. 5,000 fish are the load of a cart drawn
by a bullock. It is sold upon the spot to the farmers, who
come for them, and convey them for many miles round, to be
made use of immediately. Still more frequently, they make a
compost of them, with turf or peat, and straw. This compost
ia used in several kinds of culture.'

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

633

prospect of an immense progress in the production of
their fields ; and that the maritime population fiud in it
also, a source of employment and of comfort, hitherto
unknown in those countries, where the fisherman has,
until now, had only one season, the Sardine lishery, for
the employment of his industry,

" You will also, like ourselves, be struck with the
projects of Messrs. Da Molon and Thurneysen, in a
maritime point of view ; the coast-fishery, and that,
above all, of the North Seas, being the best nursery for
our naval marine.

"On these several accounts, it appears lo us, that
the Imperial and Central Society ought to take into
very high consideration, the facts which have been
brought before them on the subject of fish-manure ;
and it is as an instruction which ought to be used in
that examination, that we pray you to send the present
report to the Special Commission, which is to make a
general report to you, upon the important works of
Messrs. De Molon and Thurneysen*."

CHAINED DOGS.

Why is hydrophobia rare among dogs that are
in a wild state? Why among those thousands of
native scavengers which swarm in the sultry streets
of southern cities is this dreadful disease un-
known ? Why in this country is it almost in-
variably the case that a chained dog is the first to
suffer, break his chain, and communicate his
malady to an indefinite number and extent ? The
•courge of hydrophobia, we firmly believe, among
many other affections, is attributable to the igno-
rance and cruelty of man. This boon — this bless-
ing— this friend and most faithful of all dependents,
the dog, which the Creator in his mercy has
bestowed on us, we treat with ingratitude and
ignorance beyond credibility. We too often (but
this wickedness is, let us hope, of rare occurrence)
repay his fidelity with blows. We heap diseases
upon him ; for distemper, mange, and hydropho-
bia man perpetuates, by assuming modes of treat-
ment at variance with the dictates of nature.

Heat of the dog-days, as the cause of hydro-
phobia, is a chimera; the weather is hotter in the
east. No ; the cause is thwarting the instinct and
habits of the dog. No one can be ignorant of the
fact, that dogs frequently eat grass ; but few per-
sons have either reasoned upon the subject, or
given themselves the trouble to procure for a chain-
ed dog the vegetable condiment which nature has
rendered necessary for him. Dr. Darwin has enu-
merated among his " fifty signs of rain," that dogs
" Leave mutton bones, on grass to feast."

* " M. De Molon has united to his mauure-raanufactnre,
that of Sardine oil, according to the Appert process. We
mention this fact to you only as an accessory, and to make
you aware upon what a vast scale Messrs. De MoIq-.i aiid
Thurneysen have developed their useful enterprise."

People read and know this, but there the subject
terminates. They have no sympathy with the
noble animal — the mighty guardian of his pro-
perty ; chained for months perchance, and quite
unable to obey the dictates of bis nature. Who
can say how a devouring yearning to obtain that
which his system may require, with a sense of
total inability to procure it, may act upon his
frame ?

We were led to pity and assist all canine
prisoners by a circumstance which occurred within
our own ken. A dog showed stringent symptoms
of uneasiness while chained ; and, anxious to dis-
cover the cause, we let him loose, when, instead of
leaping and fawning upon us as he had been ac-
customed to do, he darted away into a field, and
began eagerly to devour the leaves of couch grass ;
nor would he cease and notice his master for a con-
siderable time. Since then our garden, which
used to abound in that troublesome weed, is clear ;
it has totally disappeared, the dog having by de-
grees eaten the whole of it. Cats, too, will seek it
very frequently.

We earnestly entreat that all owners of dogs will
allow them liberty, if but for the space of one hour
daily. And we further advise that those animals
in particular which are restricted from taking regu-
lar and sufficient exercise should not be fed upon
animal substances exclusively ; biscuits, pollard,
potatoes, &c., ought to form a large proportion of
their food : the former is too gross, heating, and
exciting, unless the animals have constant hard
running in the open air.

DAMAGE DONE BY GAME NOT RECO-
VERABLE AT LAW.

TO THE EDITOR OF BELl'S LIFE IN LONDON.

Mr, Editor, — Knowing how many abuses you expose, I
forward you this piece of information, which I know the farm-
ers are not yet acquainted with. At the Sheriffs' Court, Lon-
don, a plamt was returned on Saturday, October 28th, 1834,
when the judge, Mr. Russell Gurney, said, ' There was no law
for the recovery of damage done by game, whether many or
few, whether one or a thousand.' Now, as I know one third
of the crop referred to in the plaint was destroyed by rabbits
and hares, I want to know how the poor are to be protected
from these incursions upon their bread? One-third less crop,
occasioned by preserves, is charging the poor man threepence
more upon every loaf. Surely, sir, I think if there he not a
law, there ought ta be one, whereby farmers should recover
damages done by game and rabbits. Efforts are made in
France to preserve corn exclusively for bread ; ousht we to
waste our corn wantonly, through these times of war ? I
should be very happy to think it an oversight of the legislature;
and believing the attention of the legislators can best be
called to this fact by its being noticed in your journal, I send
this notice for publication. — Yours, &c.,

John Grossmith, Farmer.

Banstead Downs, Surrey, Nov, 6ih, 1854.

534

THK FAiLMtR'S MAGAZINE.

THE PRESENT SEASON.

TYheat Sovm-iCi. — The present season lias its
peculiarities ; to take advantage of it on the one
liaiid, and to avoid its disadvantages on tlie other,
should claim the attention of every farmer. The
unprecedented drought has placed the majority of
soils in such a siale as to lead to great difficulty in
determining- the best course to be pursued in conduct-
ing- the wheat seeding. This autumn is the best ever
known for the facilities it has given for the working
and cleansing of the land ; immense breadths have
been broken up, and it has undergone such a
thorough pulverisation as to make it more like a
turnip fallow than a prepared seed-bed for the wheat
crop.

Yie pointed out, in our iast^ one or two courses to
hs adopted wilh the view of taking some advantage
(jf the season ; v/e wish now to direct attention to
certain points to be avoided, or this beautiful au-
tumn may prove disadvantageous, and the crop be
irreiuediably ruined.

The soil, to be properly prepared to receive the
seed-wheat, should be broken up to the depth of at
least five inches, aud, if possible, it should be so ma-
naged as to make a partially consohdated bottom
wiJi a well pulverised and friable surface to the
depth of at least three inches. Observe, the bottom
"should possess such a degree of firmness as will per-
mit the rootlets to take a fast hold of it, and thus
retain the plant through the winter, but not so firm
as to prevent this. If the soil is loose and open,
light and mouldy, great danger will result. The
plant will become on some soils winter-proud ; on
others it will " heave itself out," and expose the
roots ; and on some be lost altogether. Now the
farmer's best judgment must be exercised to correct
this. No one can tell what is best to be done with-
out seeing the precise field, and noting its state, as
also the means and appliances to be adapted to the
season and the object in view. If the season conti-
nue dry, the roller of coarse is the proper implement
for attaining this desideratum, followed by sharp-
toothed harrows ; if wet to any extent ensues, it is
best to wait this really natural consolidation, and
sow when the surface is in a satisfactory state for
that purpose. It is seldom that much loss arises
from, a reasonable exercise of patience ; but every
one knows the contrary is the case from unreason-
able haste. It is of far greater importance to put
the seed in properlj^, than to persist in putting it in
when land is not in a fit state to receive it. Thus far,
this season has been so propitious as to make it un-
pardonable to complete the sowing iu an improper

or slovenly manner ; if it is ever to be put in right,
surely this is the vei-y season to do it — it merely re-
quires the farmer's attention and corresponding
effort.

We have said the surface should be friable to the
depth of three inches. This is, in our opinion, about
the proper depth to deposit the seed on nearly all
soils ; on heavy clays or loams a trifle shallower, on
land liable to lose plant a trifle deeper ; but on no
account would we deposit it much deeper than three
inches, not only because it is too long in making
its appearance, and then looking sickly, but rather
because it expends too much strength in the soil
against the period about which it takes its coronal
shoots. To produce the most luxuriant plant, and
to yield the most satisfactory crop, it should not
receive any serious check from the time it is put in
to the time it is ripe for harvest. In this there is
ample scope for the judgment of the cultivator : he
should possess an accurate estimate of the fertility
or richness of the soil to be sown, and should provide
accordingly for every eventuality. It is a very
common error to sow land which is in too high con-
dition for the wheat crop, and many absurd regula-
tions yet exist between landlord and tenant relative
to courses of management which prevent the
adoption of a better course : such rich fertility
should be reduced by a potato crop, or a seed or
pulse crop. We would say once for all, that
wherever a farmer cultivates so highly, he is entitled
to take whatever crops he may desire to reap.

To obviate difficulties of this kind, i. e., tlie pro-
duction of too much straw, many modes of pre-
vention arc resorted to. The principal one, and the
only one we shall now notice, is the variety of seed
and seeding.

On all rich soils we would sow the best short-
strawed variety of red wheat we coidd procure on
all infertile soils the loug-strawed varieties are better:
on all lands liable to mildew clean-strawed red
lolieat should also be sown. Red wheats are more
hardy and less liable to injuries than the white
varieties, and are most to be preferred for any un-
usual course — such as late sowing, c%c. The white
varieties may be advantageously sown on all lands
likely to produce the grain of beautiful quality ; but
in all other cases the red varieties are to be pre-
ferred.

The quantity of seed to be sown per acre is a very
important point : much, of course, must depend upon
the state of the land, the period of sowing, and
variety of wheat. Wheat subject to much tillering

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

68S

may be sown thiuner than other varieties ; taking,
however, all things to be fair and right for seeding,
it will be found that six pecks of good wheat will be
a sufficient seeding per acre before the middle of
November ; and after that time, it sliould be in-
creased till it amounts to eiglit pecks, and a little more
or less, according to the weather and tlie staie of the
land, and the various probabilities attending a pro-
tracted season. Thick sowing is not only a waste
of seed, but it prevents the due development of the
wheat plant : better to have a moderate number of
fine full ears than a larger number of small thin ones.
If the plant is not too thick, it will more readily
keep up through every vicissitude ; if tliicb, the

plants are weak and are soon laid. In all cases it is
best to sow good grain, and the moi'e f bounding in
tlour the better.

In procuring seed, as a general rule, it is best to
select from a cold to a genial climate, from a chalky
to a loamy soil, from clay to sand, from peat to
any soil, and vice versa. A change of seed of ap-
proved stock is generally beneficial, and may often
be made without gi-eat cost : from lull to valley, and
vice vend, is good. This is a change of climate often
to be -made on the same farm ; and so in other cases,
attention is merely required to these details in
business, and for whicli the farmer will be amply re-
paid.

UPON THE ECONOMISING OF FEEDING SUB ST.

3ES,

Economy in the consumption of feeding sub-
stances in the maintaining and fattening of the
domesticated animals is a question bearing directly
upon the profits of both arable and pastoral hus-
bandry. Upon arable farms the ieeding of ani-
mals is nov/ deemed equally important with the
raising of grain — the latter being greatly dependent
upon the producing of a liberal supply of m,aniu-es,
either by fattening animals, or by purchasing
manures. The first consideration, however, in the
fattening of animals should be the profits derived
directly from the food they consume, and not the
profits derived indirectly from the manure through
the increase of corn. Both are elements to be
taken into the estimate; but as the latter is neces-
sarily less certain or appreciable, and has moreover
been unduly exaggerated, the farmer should keep
ahvays steadily in view the profits derived from
feeding. Were less reliance placed upon the ma-
nure, the principles of feeding would be more care-
fully studied. The vague idea entertained by many
farmers, that " what is lost in the feeding u'ill be
got back again in the manure," obviously tends to
the continuance of errors which militate against ihe
progress of sound practice. The dejections of
animals always bear a relation to the nature of the
food which they consume. That which is assimi-
lated by the animal cannot appear again in the
manure. What is not assimilated or consumed in
maintaining the animal heat will doubtless be
found in the dejections ; but it certainly is not the
object intended, in feeding animals, that they sboidd
be made conduits for the conveying of substances
to the manure heap, containing more or less the
elements of fertility. What they feed upon should
goto the building up of muscles and fat; and to
effect this at the least waste of the feeding stuffs is

gain, and consequently should be the aim of the
feeder.

To accomphsh this, it is important that, besides
a judicious selection of the substances employed in
feeding, they should be furnished to the animal in a
condition most easily assimilated. Hitherto far-
mers have generally contented tbemselve
giving the fond in a raw stnte ; and beyond ?
the turnips or breaking the cake into small pieces,
no other preparation is attempted. Colonel
M'Douall, of Logan, found that bj' giving a cooked
mess of 3lbs. of oat-straw cut, boiled with 3lbs.
of bean-raeal, he reduced the quantity of Swede
turnip consumed by one- third ; SO to lOOlbs. of
turnip per day being, along v;ith this, found suf-
ficient for ordinary-sized Galloway oxen. The
average consumption of turnip by ordinary-sized
cattle is known to be at the rate of fully 150lbs.
per day.

In France, we found that a practice lately adopted
there, and in Belgium, was coming rapidly into
favour, viz., grating down roots such as the beet,
and mixing them with cut straw and hay, and al-
lowing the whole to set up an incipient fermentation
for two or three days. The animals receiving such
food make much greater progress than when the
same proportion of food and cut in the same man-
ner is given fresh to feeding stock. It is found
advantageous to exclude the air as much as pos-
sible from the mass after it is mixed. The change
which the grated roots and the straw and hay
undergo is believed to be chemical, the saccharine
principle being ])avtially developed by the fermen-
tation. If this French and Belgi-.n practice is as-
certained by experiments here to be founded on a
sound basis, it will go to modify tlu-. Sccftish system
of feeding, in giving turnips with • ;rav/ ad libitum.

536

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

The practice of cutting fodder has been somewhat
unaccountably neglected in Scotland. Many far-
mers are of opinion that straw contains no feeding
qualities, and that beyond correcting the laxative
tendency of turnips, the less the cattle eat of it
the better, and that cattle cannot consume too many
turnips per day to hasten the process of fattening.
Now there can be no greater mistake than to sup-
pose that straw does not contain the elements which
go to form muscle and fat. Boussingault, the
highest scientific authority on feeding, has found
that the fattening qualities of straw are as follow.
The estimate is given in two forms, in one of which
nitrogen is taken as the most essential principle, the
other, the fatty matter contained in the straw, taking
meadow hay as the standard.

Water. Nitrogen. Equivalents.

Meadow hay .. 18. 1.35 1.00

Wheat straw .. 29. .36 4.00

Barley do .. 21. .30 4.00

Oat do .. 21. .36 2.50

Swedish turnip . . 92. 1.83 3.00

Turnip .. 92. 1.70 4.00

Beet ,. 87. 1-70 3,00

Beans .. 15. 5.50 .40

Linseed cake .. 18. 6.00 .31

Colza cake (rape) 13. 5.50 .23

Of fatty matter the following are the proportions :
— In oats, 5.5; bran, 5; hay, 3 ; wheat straw, 2 ;
oat straw, 5 ; beans, 2 ; oilcake, 9. It will be seen
from the last form of estimate that the fatty matter
contained in oat straw is more than one-half of that
contained in oilcake, and is equal to the quantity con-
tained in the oat itself. In wheat straw, the fatty
matter is about one-fourth of oilcake. There can be
no doubt, therefore, but that straw does contain the
elements of nutrition in a considerable degree. It
is because these are not so concentrated as to ad-
mit of animals obtaining enough in the quantity
they can consume for their structural formation,
that renders straw only useful as an adjunct. It
will be seen that the quantity of water in the turnip
is so great that it may be in many cases advan-
tageous to increase the per-centage of dry food, to
counteract the effect of such a quantity of cold
water being supplied to the digestive organs. Cat-
tle kept upon turnips, particularly thewhite varieties,
and without any other feeding stuffs but ordinary
straw, have generally the dejections so relaxed that
a low form of diarrhoea is induced, which generally
continues for some weeks, till a change to yellow
or Swede, or to grain in part, takes place. Now
this can neither be in accordance with a high state
of health in the animal, nor in extracting the largest
amount of the nutrition of the food obtainable by
the system.

It would therefore appear that an entire change,
or at lea,st a modification of the present system of

fattening cattle in this country, will, with an ad-
vance of knowledge, take place. At present the
most approved practice appears to be, to give a sup-
ply of highly concentrated food, such as cake and
corn, along with roots, rather than to take means to
render the more bulky and less valued substances,
turnip and straw, more available. The high price,
however, at which grain now stands, and also the
price of linseed cake, from £10 to £12, demand
caution in the use of cake and corn this season in
fattening animals, and will probably induce more
attention among farmers to the preparation of tur-
nip and straw.

Rape-cakes which generally sell at one-half the
price of linseed-cakes, contain by analysis the same
amount of the nutritious elements ; indeed, gene-
rally the balance is in favour of rape -cakes, from
containing more oil. Notwithstanding this fact,
from the evident dislike which animals once ac-
customed to hnseed cakes, or which have not had
rape-cake when calves, evince to rape-cake, farmers
have a decided prejudice against employing it as a
feeding substance. The dislike of cattle arises
from a particular bitter extract which all rape-cake
more or less possesses. If rape-cake therefore
could be rendered more palatable, there is no rea-
son why it should not sell at the same price, as a
feeding stuff, as linseed cake. This can be effected,
in part, by two methods — by grinding the rape-
cake into meal, and mixing it with about one-
half of bean, oat, barley, or maize meal, or bran,
which indeed contains nearly the same amount of
nutriment as oats — viz., 5 per cent, of fatty matter.
This compound, given to the cattle as meal, at the
rate of 5lbs. per day, will generally repay the out-
lay. A still better practice, however, is to make it
into a jelly, and mix it with chopped straw, and
afterwards given to the stock. Those adopting this
latter method require only the erection of a boiler
of malleable iron, of ordinary dimensions, and with
the expenditure of no great amount on coals and
wages for the attendant, a valuable auxiliary for
turnip can be obtained.

In feeding sheep, no such preparation is necessary
to induce them to eat rapecake. It is now several
years since Mr. Pusey called the attention of the
agricultural world, through the columns of the
English Journal, to his success in substituting rape-
cake for linseed-cake in the feeding of sheep. The
practice has taken hold in England, but appears
not to have recommended itself to Scottish agri-
culturists. Any of our readers who would un-
dertake an experiment with a lot of sheep, divided
into equal portions, and folded upon the same fields
of turnips, and the two cakes, linseed and rape,
employed as an auxiliary at the rate of lib. per day
per head, woiUd confer a favour on agriculturists.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

537

and, we believe, would obtain information which
they in future would find profitably available in
their own practice. There can be no doubt that if
the dislike to rapecake can be got over, its feeding
properties, weight for weight, are equal to linseed-

cake, and we repeat, as the present price is only
half of hnseed-cake, beef and mutton can be manu-
factured by the use of rapecake at a lower rate than
by that of hnseedc-ake. — North British Agri-
culturist.

ON THE USE OF TOWN SEWAGE AS MANURE.

The importance, both in a sanitary and agri-
cultural point of view, of the sewage question, and
the amount of misconception which prevails re-
specting it, render unnecessary any apology for
attempting to diffuse, as much as in our power,
sound chemical knowledge of the subject, by con-
tinuing our abstract of Professor Way's paper on
the use of town sewage as manure.

Having shown the futility of attempts to separate
a good manure from it, by filtration of the small
quantity of solid matter which it holds in sus-
pension, he proceeds to discuss the various schemes
which have been proposed for obtaining, by chemical
treatment, the much larger and much morevaluable
amount of manuring matter which it contains in a
state of solution ; such as ammonia, potash, and
phosphoric acid. The substances which it has
been proposed to employ for this purpose are the
various forms of charcoal, also lime, gypsum, clay,
both burnt and unburnt, salts of zinc, iron, and
magnesia, in some cases separately, in others in
combination.

Of charcoal, there are several kinds ; the most
important of which are bone or animal charcoal
(made by burning bones in a close retort), peat
charcoal, and wood charcoal. Bone charcoal is a
valuable deodorising substance; but the supply is
limited, the demand for it in certain manufacturing
processes considerable, and the price as high as
£10 and £l2 per ton. Peat chaixoal is also a good
deodoriser, and much cheaper, costing only. £3 or
£4 per ton. Wood charcoal is more expensive, and
a less effective deodoriser than that made from peat,
and it appears to have been employed but little
in practice for that purpose.

Charcoal absorbs ammonia and other gases, by
virtue of its porosity, in consequence of that sur-
face attraction which all solids exert upon gases,
and which, in the case of charcoal, is increased by
the extended surface which its numerous pores
present. But water also possesses this attractive
property in a very high degree, more particularly over
those gases which it is capable of dissolving largely.
Consequently, when water comes in contact with
charcoal saturated with ammoniacal gas, its superior
attraction transfers the ammonia from the charcoal
to the \Yater, It is, thereforcj a mistake to suppose

that charcoal will separate ammonia and its salts
from water, because it has the power of absorbing
ammonia from the atmosphere. Charcoal, it is
true, separates some organic matters from solution.
The colouring matter of sugar, for instance, is re-
moved by animal charcoal in the process of refining;
but this power is very limited, and only applies to
a small class of substances. The most valuable
organic matter in sewage, supposing it be fresh,
would be urea ; but it is useless to think of re-
moving this by means of charcoal because char-
coal is used to free coloured solutions of urea from
the colouring matter which they contain : it re-
moves this, but leaves the urea in solution. There
are two ways of employing charcoal in the pre-
paration of manure from sewage — either by forming
it into a filter bed, through which the sewage is
passed, or by mixing it in tanks with sewage,
unfiltered, or filtered through wire-gauze, perforated
zinc, or coarse cloth, and then drying the pulpy
faecal mass. In whatever way it is used, it removes
nothing of importance from actual solution : it
only separates and renders portable the sohd
matters in suspension. It is a deodoriser, a drier,
and a carrier ; but nothing more.

Professor Way next treats of the uses of lime in
the preparation of solid manure from sewage water.
Sewage, as it comes from the London sewers,
filters with difficulty. Lime is used to coagulate
it, and to promote the separation of the liquid and
solid parts, after the manner in which beer or coffee
is fined with isinglass. Lime promotes this coagu-
lation in sewage water, chiefly, we may suppose, by
neutralising the carbonic acid with which it abounds,
and which holds in solution carbonate and phos-
phate of lime, and other salts. Lime will, therefore,
separate from sewage water all the substances con-
tained in it, which are dissolved in acids : it will
precipitate phosphate of lime, and separate phos-
phoric acid from its soluble combinations : it also
separates certain organic matters, with which it
forms compounds. Here then, we appear to have
the very substance required to enable us to reduce
to the solid form the valuable manuring substances
which sewage water holds in solution. These
advantages, however, are neutralised by the large
amount of carbonate of lime which is contained in

538

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

manure thus prepared. In analyzing some samples.
Professor Way found them to contain from 30 to
60 per cent, of carbonate of lime. The farmer,
therefore, who purchases it, is buying, at a dear
rate, a manure, nearly one-half of which is no better
than chalk, with a small proportion of phosphate
of hme, of alkalies, and organic matters. These
results do not arise from the employment of too
large a proportion of hme ; they are a necessary
consequence of the use of lime at ail, even
in the form of clear lime-water. The car-
bonic acid thus neutralized is not only that
which is produced from the animal matter of
the sewage during decomposition : the water with
which most towns are supphed holds in solution,
before it passes into the sev/ers, a very large pro-
portion of lime, in the form of the bicarbonate. In
London it amounts to as much as 15 grains of car-
bonateoflime in theimperial gallon. This quantity is
increased to 30 grains by the addition of lime v.-ater.
Now the 4372 grains of solid excrement,produced
daily by each individual, is diffused, in London,
through 20 gallons of water, which, when treated with
a solution of iime, v.'ill yield 600 grains of chalk. In
other words, the chalk must amount to nearly 60
per cent, of the manure.

Gypsum is another substanceusedinthe prepara-
tion of manure from sewage, with as much miscon-
ception of its properties as prevails with regard to char-
coal. Sulphate of lime decomposes carbonate of am-
monia in the atmosphere, by formation of carbonate
of lime and sulphate of ammonia, the latter a less
soluble salt than the carbonate. It is therefore said
to be a fixer of ammonia when used in this v»'ay.
But sulphate of ammonia is a salt just as soluble in
water as the carbonate. Therefore, by filtering
sewage water through gypsum, we merely convert
one soluble salt of ammonia into another : we fix
nothing. Gypsum is a good deodorizer of the ulti-
mate manure; but, in attempting to take ammoniacal
compounds from a state of solution by the use of
it, we let them slip through our fingers. Added to
sewage v/ater, it decomposes the phosphates of soda
and ammonia, and precipitates the phosphoric acid
in combination with lime. The large quantity of
carbonic acid, however, present in the sewage must
prevent any great precipitate of phosphate of lime.

The researches conducted by Professor V»'ay, on
the power which clay possesses, of removing from
solution ammonia and almost every substance of
manuring value, have led to the proposal of employ-
ing clays, burnt and unburnt, as filters for sewage.
He repudiates, hovv'ever, any participation in the
plan ; as being founded on misconception — that
misconception being one of quantity. The most
favourable results of his experiments on the power
of clay to separate ammonia, gave three grains of

ammonia to 1000 grains of soil, or just 3-lOths per
cent. In nature, where hundreds of tons of soil are
employed to letain a few hundred pounds of manure,
this power is all important; and a soil charged with
such ingredients, to the utmost limit of its power
of absorption, would be highly fertile ; but as a
manure it must be laid on in such quantities — 20 or
30 tons to the acre — as v.-ould be a bar to its use.
Such are the effects of clay on the soluble matter of
sev.-age. As a mere mechanical filter, it may answer
for purposes strictly local, the manure and the clay
being both upon the spot, where ihe manure is to be
used ; but for converting the sev.'Ege of towns into
manure, to be used at a distance, v/here it is of most
value, lejeu ne v'aut])as la lumiere. The carriage of
the clay from the country to the town, and from the
town to the country, would cost more than the value
of the manure which it had taken up.

We come now to the salts of alum.ina, v/hich it has
been proposed to employ in preparing manure from
sewage. They act, like lime, by promoting coagu-
lation of the liquid, and rendering it more easy of
filtration. If to a quantity of London sevv-age a
small portion of lime be first added, and then a
small quantity of sulphate of alumina, a flocculent
precipitate is formed, v.'hich speedily subsides,
carrying down with it all suspended matters, and
leaving the hquid bright and clear. As an adjunct
tj filtration. Professor Yv'^ay regards the salts of
alumina as the best that have hitherto been pro-
posed ; but they perform no other office : they sepa-
rate from a state of solution neither ammonia nor
any other fertilizing matter.

The consideration of the other substances which
are either used or proposed to be used in the pre-
paration of solid mianure must be postponed to a
future oi^portunity.

ST.ITISTICS OF iiUSGULAR POWER.— Man has tl-e
power of imitating every motion but that of flight. To effect
this he has, ia maturity sud health, 60 bones in his head, 60
in his thighs and legs, 62 in his arms and hands, and 67 in his
trunk. He has also 434 muscles. His heart makes 64 pulsa-
tions in a minute ; and therefore 3,740 in an hour, 92,160 in
a day. There are also three complete circulations of his blood
in the short space of an hour. In respect to the comparative
speed of animated beings and of impelled bodies, it may be
remarked that size and construction seem to have littie in-
flueuce, nor has comparative strength, though one body giving
any quantity of motion to another is said to lose so much of
its own. The sloth is by no means a small animal, and yet it
can travel only fifty paces a day ; a worm crawls only five
inches in fifty seconds, but a ladybird can fly twenty million
times its own length in less than an hour. An elk can run a
mile and a half in seven minutes ; an antelope a mile ia a mi-
nute ; the wild mule of Tartary has a speed even greater than
that; an eagle can fly eighteen leasrues in an hour ; a Canary
falcon can even reach 250 leagues in the short space of sixteen
hours. A violent wind travels sixty miles in an hour ; sound;
1,142 English feet in a second!.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

539

FALKIRK TRYST.

The following most interesting and truthful ac-
count of the celebrated northern market will be
read with much pleasure by our readers. It is
from a work -entitled " Essays on Agriculture, by
the late Thomas Gisborne, of YoxaU Lodge^ Staf-
fordshire " : —

Having carried our readers to the Highlands, we
must, at the risk of being somewhat episodical, re-
quest that on their return south they will accom-
pany us to Falkirk Moor on the second Monday or
Tuesday in either September or October. They
will there witness a scene to which certainly Great
Britain, perhaps even the whole world, does not
afford a parallel. On the J^Ionday morning they
will see the arrival on this flat and open moor, of
flock after flock, to perhaps the average number of
1,000 in each, of sheep — some black-faced with
horns, some white-faced and polled — the individuals
of each flock being, however, remarkably uniform
in size and character. They will probably observe
that the flocks arrive in parts, the first being a draft
of wethers, and the second of ev\'es from the same
farm. Each flock will be attended by two or three
men, and at least as many dogs. They take up
their respective stations on the moor without con-
fusion, and stand in perfect quietude in little round
clumps, u'hich are separated from each other by
only a few yards. The dogs are the main guardians,
and though they are generally lying dov.-n and lick-
ing their travel-worn feet, no unruly animal v/ho
breaks the ranks escapes their vigilance, but is in-
stantly recoveref-l. Among the shepherds, friendly
recognitions a-re taking place ; the hand and the
mull are freely offered and accepted, and the news
from Ben Nevis, Dunvegan, Brahan, Jura, John o'
Groat's, and The Lewis is communicated in a sin-
gularly soft language, strange to southern ears.
We doubt whether we do not much underrate the
whole number of sheep thus collected at 100,000.
Mr. PatersoiT, Mr. Sellers, Mr. Kennedy, and Mr.
Cameron, of Corachoilie will each have several
thousands on the ground. We have heard that this
last patriarch has 50,000 head of cattle and sheep
on his several farms. The greater part of the sheep
are in the hands of their respective breeders, though
no inconsiderable number have been purchased,
without being seen, at the Inverness wool fair, by
dealers who are perfectly acquainted with the qua-
lities of every large flock. Soon after the groups
have been collected in the manner ^.\'hich we have

described, a large number of agricultural-looking
gentlemen on horseback and on foot begin to move
among them ; these are partly southern dealers, but
more generally the large turnip-growers from the
east coast of Scotland, and from the northern and
eastern counties of England. The merits of each
flock are so accurately known by those who have
an interest in frequenting Falkirk, that a cursory
inspection suffices. No stranger accustomed to the
bustle and the crov/d, the handling and hagghng
of an English fair, would suspect that transac-
tions of a magnitude to v.'hich Barnet, St. Faith's,
and Wey Hill afibrd no parallel, were on the eve of
taking place. The owners are seldom with their
flocks, but their whereabouts is easily ascertained
by those who want them. " Vv^hat are ye seeking
for the Gordon Bush ewes, or for the Invercashley
wethers, the year r" says the purchaser ; and if the
parties are well known to each other, a price is
named v^'ithin Is. or perhaps within 6d. a head of
vAiat the vendor means to accept. A few words
pass about the abatement of the odd shilling or
sixpence, and with a half-jocose complaint that the
vendor was shabby with his lucky penny last year,
several thousand sheep have changed hands. The
nev/s of the price at which the best lots are sold
spreads through the fair, and within a very trifling
per- centage, the value of every other lot is at once
ascertained. A large proportion of the lots pass
from year to year into the same hands. No jJur-
chaser of a smaller number than 500 must expect
to get sheep at first hand from any of the standard
flocks ; indeed, these magnates generally decline to
divide their lots at all. On the outskirts of the fair
will be found small, mixed, and inferior lots, where
the buyer may have haggling for Id. a head to his
heart's content. The settling at Falkirk is as pe-
cuhar as the dealing. Xo man brings mone}", i. e.
currenc)', with him to Falkirk. On a portion of
the moor adjoining the sheep ground, and adjoin-
ing also to Jong lines of booths, a wooden pent-
house, about five feet square, announces itself by
exterior placard to be " The Royal Bank of Scot-
land;" the British Linen Company, the Commercial
Bank, and every other banking company north of
Tweed appear there also by similar wooden repre-
sentatives. The purchasers come to the fair pro-
vided with letters of credit, and, stepping into the
tabernacle to which they are accredited, bring out
in large notes the amount required ; these are
handed to the vendo:' in an adjoining booth, and

540

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

are probably within a very few minutes at his credit
with the issuer, or with one of his rivals ; for a
Scotchman, dealing with a banker who is very rea-
sonable in his charges, and who is to be found in
every village in the land, always throws on him the
responsibility of keeping his money. The bankers
in the aggregate carry from the ground the same
notes which they brought in the morning, a few
scratches of the pen in their books having sufficed
to balance all these large transactions. The clear-
ing of the ground is as orderly as the other pro-
ceedings of the day, and, under the superintendence
of the best herds and the best dogs in existence,
the immense fleecy mass moves off, with almost
military precision, on its southern and eastern
journey.

What shall we say of the gathering of the mor-
row ? Every isle and holm which opposes its rug-
ged crags to the fury of the Western Ocean between
Islay and the Orkneys ; every mainland glen from
the Mull of Cantyre to Cape Wrath pours in its
pigmy droves, shaggy and black, or relieved only,
as to colour, by a sprinkhng of reds, and of duns
graduating from mouse to cream-colour. From
Northern and Eastern Sutherland, Caithness, Ross,
and Inverness, they come in longer on the leg,
smooth and vulgar. From central Argyle, Perth,
and from some of the islands, come the carefully-
bred West Highlanders ; these are the flower
of the show, engage every one's talk and attract
every one's attention ; every individual of them
is a dehght to the eye of a connoisseur.
Aberdeen and Forfar send in droves of large
and bony> but useful, bullocks. A few Ayrshire
cows and heifers for the dairy, some miscellaneous
lots, and a few Irish, make up the account. We
do not know the numbers ; we have heard of
30,000, and again of 60,000. The October show
is the most imposing. The almost universalcolour
is black ; the moor is in appearance one black mass.
You may be accommodated with every size, from
that of a Newfoundland dog to a bullock of 100
stones. The cattle are mostly in the hands of
dealers, having been bought up at the Northern
and Western markets ; many, however, of the best
West Highlanders are brought to the tryst by their
breeders, and you may see a kilted laird from the
Hebrides standing, like Rob Roy, at the tails of his
own bonny stots and queys. Every dealer in small
cattle offers you Skye beasts, and you would be in-
clined to attribute almost miraculous productive
powers to that celebrated island, till you were in-
formed that (as a merchant would say) " that is the
favourite brand," and that large numbers of these
beasts are brought from the other Hebridean isles
to the Skye markets. To speak generally, every
one of these animals has his predestinated course ;

the smallest, called six quarters, from being only
eighteen months old, will clean up the rough pas-
tures and eat a little straw in Clydesdale, Dumfries-
shire, Cumberland, and the neighbouring districts.
The older of the small cattle will proceed to Brough
Hill, a very favourite fair with dealers, because it is
said to be attended by more gentlemen's bailiflfs
than any other in the United Kingdom, The finest
West Highland heifers are for Yorkshire, and the
bullocks for the counties of Leicester, Northampton,
and Buckingham. The heavy north-eastern bul-
locks will supply the Lothians with stall- feeders,
and will go in large numbers for the same purpose
to Northumberland, Lincolnshire, Norfolk, and the
south-eastern counties of England. These are all
Norfolks when they get to Smithfield market. The
proceedings are as orderly, and the dealings on as
large a scale as those of the preceding day. A few
small lots of a score each may be found, but gene-
rally they run from 50 to 300 and upwards. A pur-
chaser of less than the whole of one of these large
lots gets his number, not by a selection, but by a
cut : a drover passes through the black mass, and
cuts off by estimation the number; they are then
counted and made up to the required figure by al-
ternate selections on the part of the buyer and seller.
A third day follows, but it is not of much account.
The cattle are for the most part miscellaneous lots,
and what a Scotchman calls his shots, and an Eng-
lishman his culls. We have been somewhat minute
in describing theseproceedings,becausethey are on a
scale of magnitude quite unknown to southern agri-
culturists. We can assure our readers that the men
who carry them on are quite equal to the occasion.
We always considered our annual intercourse with
them to be both a privilege and a pleasure. No
trading class can furnish more intelligent men
than the Scotch stock farmers, perhaps indeed
than the Scotch agriculturists generally ; men well
educated, of courteous and simple manners, of great
intelligence and much general information, enter-
prising, and keenly alive to every reported improve-
ment. We never could associate with them without
drawing rather disagreeable comparisons. Many of
these men are originally and still from the Cheviot
district of the bolder; several of thega hold stock-
farms in districts separated by hundreds of miles
from each other, besides a more agricultural farm
on which they reside. Their system must be ex-
cellent, for they only see their mountain farms a
very few times in the year. Others hold only one
farm, and reside on it ; and of these, some on the
west coast of Sutherland have long been the resident
gentry and quasi lairds of the district, though hold-
ing under their great superior, the duke of that ilk.
Till the very recent introduction of roads and inns,
their houses were the only refuge of the traveller

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

from the mountain and moor. We must always
have a grateful recollection of a lady who strongly
objected to these innovations on her generous and
refined hospitahty. Though sixty miles from her

doctor, and depending on coasting traders for luxu-
ries and fashions, she looked back with regret to
the days when she had no conveyance but a horse
or a boat.

THE LATE HARVEST.

The harvest is now concluded. Other years have
been blessed with weather as favourable for the in-
gathering of the fruits of the earth, and there have
been crops as abundant in promise ; but that pro-
mise has been disappointed at the critical moment
by unpropitious weather. Rarely has it fallen to
our lot to have so good a produce of every kind
so well secured. This merciful dispensation de-
mands the deepest and most lively gratitude ;
and well has it become the nation to raise its
voice in praise and thanksgiving for so great
a blessing. Prayer is offered every Sabbath day
in our churches, that He who reserveth unto
us the appointed weeks of harvest will be pleased
to give and preserve to our use the kindly fruits
of the earth, so that in due time we may enjoy
them ; and it would be well if our Liturgy contained
some form of thanksgiving which might be used
yearly in every parish at the conclusion of harvest —
if abundant, for its abundance ; if scanty, that it is
bestowed at all ! It would be well if, while peti-
tioning for future mercies, we expressed our
gratitude for those already received. In this
utilitarian age, it is good that our thoughts should
not always be grovelling upon earth, and that while
we boast of the increased and increasing produce
which skill and science are forcing the soil to yield,
we should sometimes reflect on the comparative
impotence of both, and remember that though one
may plant and another may water, it is God who
giveth the increase. How beautifully is this de-
pendence, which we are too apt to forget, expressed
in the latter part of the 65th Psalm — " Thou visitest
the earth, and blessest it; thou makest it very
plenteous. The river of God is full of water : thou
preparest their corn, for so thou provides! for the
earth. Thou_,waterest her furrows : thou sendest
rain into the little valleys thereof : thou makest it
soft with the drops of rain, and blessest the increase
of it. Thou crownest the year with thy goodness,
and thy clouds drop fatness. They shall drop
Upon the dwelUngs of the wilderness, and the
little hills shall rejoice on every side. The folds
shall be full of sheep : the valleys also shall stand
so thick with corn that they shall laugh and sing."
These are words which should be deeply im-
pressed upon the memory of every tiller of the
ground, and of every consumer of its fruits. They

are words which have forced themselves continually
upon our thoughts when we have wandered through
our most beautiful country ; its fields whitening to
the harvest, and waving with a crop as luxuriant as
ever gladdened the heart of the husbandman. Still
the present trying season is calculated to awaken
many humbling and salutary thoughts. Foremost
among these is the consideration to which we
have already adverted regarding the inefficiency
of our most strenuous exertions unaided by the
blessing of Heaven.

Some of our legislators considered that they had
secured for us an exemption from famine ; and yet,
with ports constantly open, we have seen bread
nearly as dear as it ever was during the continuance
of those restrictions by means of which legislators
of another school vainly endeavoured to se-
cure to the grower a remunerating price, and
thus to render us independent of foreign supplies.
Both classes of legislators must have learned, by
this time, the truth of the remark of one of our
greatest statesmen and philosophers : " The rest,"
said Burke, "is in the hands of their Master and
ours — a frost too long continued, or too suddenly
broken up ; a deficiency or an excess of rain, or of
snow; the blight of the spring or the mildew of the
autumn can do more towards causing distress of
the belly, than all the contrivances of all statesmen
can towards relieving it."

The last half-century has been the reign of agri-
cultural improvement. During that period the
average produce of our fields has been doubled, and
the races of our domestic animals have been so im-
proved, that they appear almost like anew creation.
During the last fifteen years this progress has been
moving with accelerated velocity. Chemistry,
geology, animal and vegetable physiology, have
been pressed into the service of agriculture. The
most modern of sciences have lent their aid to the
oldest of arts. Our men of practice are proud of the
skill which has made two blades of grass grow where
but one grew before; and our men of science
flatter themselves that with their assistance more
certain and more abundant harvests will be reaped.
And then comes the potato blight, as if purposely
sent to rebuke these vauntings, to baffle the skill of
the farmer, and laugh to scorn the wisdom of the
philosopher. New forms of disease break out

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

among our sheep and cattle, smail-pox and pleuro-
pneumonia decimate the flocks and the herds which
are the glory of our shovz-yards. For seven years
the potato blight has continued its ravages. It has
effected a social revolution in Ireland, exterminated
or expatriated millions of its jJopuliUion, and re-
duced to beggary some of the proudest of the land.
For seven years its ravages have continued ; and
we are as far from having discovered its cause, or
devised aremedy,as we were on its first appearance.
It seems to be independent of the weather.
Through seasons of rain or of sunshine, of heat or
of cold, it holds its course like a destroying angel.
Every variety of the plant and every variety of
cultivation suiFei;s from it alike. Those which escape
one year are smitten the next. The sum of our
knowledge respecting it is this ; that at a certain
period of its growth, the crop is suddenly smitten,
and that the withering leaves are covered with
myriads of a scarcely visible fungus ; but whether
this comes as a cause or a consequence we know
not, A kindred parasite is blasting the vineyards
of the wine-growing countries. What if a similar
scourge, or the wheat midge of America, should
desolate our corn fields? how deplorable would our
condition be then ! With what gratitude should
we then hail that immunity from such ravages
which v/e now receive with thankless indifference.
The last harvest may teach us again that, de-
pendent as we are upon the vicissitudes of the
seasons, v/e do not always know the kind of weather
which conduces to dearth or abundance. The
proneness of the cultiv^ltor3 of the soil to be dis-
satisfied with the weather is no new story. It has
been the constant theme of satire, from the heathen
fable of Jupiter and the husbandman, to the obser-
vation which Walter Scott put into the mouth of
a gardener, that the weather which others called
fine was not "o'ermuch to be complained against."
There is truth, however, in the proverb that —

"Be it fair, or be it wet.
The weather alwajs pays its debt."

He who gives the former and the latter rain
in its season is often vv'orking for our good
by means which v/e little suppose. The summer
passed afforded a striking example of this.
What could be more unpropiiious than its pro-
mise? In March we had the weather of May;
from that time till July v/e had the cold-
ness of March, without its brightness. Still,
through coldness and dampness and gloom, the
crops continued to flourish, and gave promise of
abundance, provided a speedy change should take
place in the v/eather, of which there seemed little
hope. That critical period, the blooming season,
was unfavourable ; the ear was filling, the grain was

in the milk, and there v\'as an alarm of incipient
mildew. Sunshine broke out as if by miracle, and
there was a cry tliat the heat had come too sud-
denly, and that it would induce premature ripe-
ness. These fears v/ere dissipated ; our fields
were blessed vAth a crop unrivalled for quantity
and quality, and v/e had two months of the
finest harvest weather which the most inveterate
grumbler could desire. " O that men would there-
fore praise the Lord for his goodness, and declare
the wonders that he doeth for the children of men ;
who covereth the heaven with clouds, and pre-
pareth rain for the earth, and maketh the grass
to grow upon the mountains, and herb for the nse
of man; who giveth fodder to the cattle, and
feedeth the young ravens that call upon him. A
fruitful land raaketh he barren for the wickedness
of them that dwell therein." Again, " He maketh
the wilderness a standing water, and water springs
of a dry ground. And there he setteth the hungry,
that they may build them a city to dwell in, that
they may sow their land and plant vineyards to
yield them fruits of increase." " O that men would
therefore thank the Lord for his goodness, and de-
clare the wonders that he doeth for the children of
men !"

WAGES UNDER EDWARD III.— lu the reign of Ed-
ward III., the daily price for works of husbiodry was as follows :
— Fivepeuce for mowing', either by the acre or by the day ; one
penny for haymaking ; t .vo pence for reaping in the first week
of August, three pence in the after weeks ; thrashing, two
pence farthing the quarter of wheat or rye; a penny farthing
fd(r the same quantity of beauSj peas, barley, and oats. In all
these cases this was the maximum ; in some places the usua]
rate was less ; and neither meat, driuk, nor other courtesy was
to be demanded, given, or taken. T.vice in the year servants
were sworn before lords, seneschals, baili.Ts, and constables of
every town, to observe this ordinance, and not to leave their
winter places of abode for the purpose of seeking work
in the summer, if employment were to be had at the
fixed rates at hooie. There was, however, a saving clause
for certain coucties in this point. Stocks were to be set up
in every township for the punishment of those who should re-
fuse to take the oath, or who should break the ordinance.
They were also to be punished by fine and ransom to the King ;
but the pecuniary penalty was after a few years abolished, ini-
p;risounieut being substituted for it; and at the same time the
wages of master-cMpeutcrs and masons were raised from three
pence a-day to four pence, and of inferior workmen in jpropor-
tioa. Men absconding from service were to be outlawed, and
burnt in tlie forehead, when taken, with the letter " F," in
token of falsity, if the offended party choose to sue for punish-
ment ; but tliis pain of burning was respited till the ensuing
Michaelmas, and tlien was not to be executed except by ad-
vice of the justices. This clause, therefore, appears to have
been deemed unduly severe, even by the very persons who
enacted it, and to have been put forth raerely in terrorem, —
Domestic Mar/asine.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

5-13

PLOUGHS.

The comparative trials of wheel and swjn.t;
ploughs, that were made in England and in Scot-
land, arrived at the very flattering conclusion that
each country possessed the best iniplements for its
own use. And this conclusion is most undoubtedly
true to a very great extent ; for the English wheel-
plough would not perform the purposes to which
the Scotch swing-plough is applied, and the latter
implement completely fails in the waxy and flinty
clays of the southern counties of England. Even
on the fresh-water clays, where the implements are
able to work, the wheei-plongh takes and keeps a
better hold of the ground than the swing plough.
It does not appear that any direct law in mechanics
is able to account for the fact that a wheel on the
end of the beam of a common plough, or on the
end of a turnip-drill scufiier, enables the imple-
uient to take and keep a better hold of the ground
than when the implemient is drawn from the end of
the beam, as a swing-plough is pulled. It may be
accounted for by no positive law, and yet be a fact,
as it is most certainly a truth.

The shoulder of the horse being higher than the
beam of the plough, an aiplifting pov/er of some
degree is exerted by the force of (h-aught, which in
the wheel-plough is expended on the wheel, and is
there stopped, proceeds no farther, and leaves the
share in the ground undisturbed. In the swing-
plough, the uplifting power meets with no opposi-
tion, proceeds along the beam, reaches the share,
and lifts it from the ground. This simple observa-
tion may account for the fact above stated, and
supply the place of a mechanical law.

On all truly loamy soils the Scotch swing-plough
is unequalled, but on the waxy and flinty clays it
wholly fails from want of weight and strength, and
of a capabihty to force its way in the tough sub-
stratum, and among the firmly-embedded flints.
Even on loams with a harsh grating bottom of
gravel, or chalk, or a compact diluvial debris, it
fails in taking and keeping a hold of the ground,
owing to the wrought-iron share wearing " below "
on the point, forming a round " nib," and conse-
quently throwing the plough upwards. Cast-iron
shares constitute a very great improvement ; the
wearing is even on both sides ; and on a wheel-
plough they very far surpass the swing-plough with
the wrought-iron share, on the subsoils now men-
tioned. On these stiff loams, and on all harsh
bottoms, the best plough now in use is " JeflTries'
plough," which can be used at pleasure with two
or four horses, and has cast-iron shares of a broad
wing and strong points.

All the swing-ploughs of South Britain are too
low in the mouldboard to raise and shape a drill of

pulverized earth, especially in the hind part of the
mouldboard. And this is a very considerable fault,
though the drill system is less used than in south
Britain ; the common plough is required to open
drills with one furrow to be sown by the drop-drill,
even where the twice drilling of land is dispensed
with. The ploughs are likewise too low and narrow
in the heel, or the hindmost part ; the furrow-slice
is not placed and pressed into the vertical position
as by the Scotch plough, v/hich has greater
pos terior width, and a more shouldered pointed
extremity of the mouldboard. J.D.

SEXUALITY OF PLANTS.

The doctrine that plants are of diflferent sexes,
and which constitutes the foundation of the Linnean
system, though but lately established upon the
basis of logical induction, is by no means a novel
doctrine. It appears to have been entertained even
among the original Greeks, from the antiquity of
their mode of cultivating iigs and palms. Aris-
totle and Theophrastus maintained the doctrine of
the sexuality of vegetables ; and Pliny, Dioscorides,
and Galen adopted the division by which plants
v/ere distributed into male and female ; but chiefly
upon the erroneous principle of habit or aspect,
and without any reference to a distinction absolutely
sexual. Pliny seems to admit the distinction of
sex in all plants whatever, and quotes the case of a
palm tree, as exhibiting the most striking example,
Linnaeus, reviewing with his usual sagacity the evi-
dence on which the doctrine rested, and perceiving
it was supported by a multiplicity of the most in-
controvertible facts, resolved to devote his labours
peculiarly to the investigation of the subject, and
to prosecute his enquiries throughout the whole
system, of the vegetable kingdom : which great and
arduous enterprize he not only undertook, but ac-
complished with a success equal to the unexampled
industry with which he pursued it; so that by col-
lecting into one body all the evidence of former
discovery or experiment, and by adding much that
was original of his own, he found himself at
length authorized to draw the important conclusion
" that no seed is perfected without the previous
agency of the pollen ; that the doctrine of the sexes
of plants is, consequently, founded on facts."

APPLES FOR COWS— A good neighbour of ours tells
us that he isfeediug his cows in part on apples, and, he thiuks,
advantageously. It is his opinion that apples, whether sweet
or sour, in these times of scarcity of feed, are worth far more
for cows than to make into cider. He says they may be feed
to cows in larger quantities, now that the grass is dry, and
especially if a little hay from the barn te given, than if the
pastures were as green as usual; that if you feed them in any
quantity below the scouring point, they will increase the

544

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

quantity without deteriorating the quality of the milk ; but
that if you go beyond that point, the milk will be diminished,
and that the feeder should observe the effect, and stop feed-
ing within the limit, if he would derive the greatest benefit
from his apples as a feed for milch cows. Others have said
that if cows are admitted to falling apples by degrees, they
will soon learn to eat enough of them without eating too
many. We know not how all this is, but our neighbour is a
man of good sense and careful observation, and we are inclined
to believe that he is right in thinking that the quantity should
be limited ; and we have no doubt that apples, if fed in the
best manner, are valuable for any kind of horned cattle, as
we believe they are also for swine, and, for aught we know,
for any kind of animals. — Conn. Valley Farmer.

HOPS.

The most ancient known account of the culti-
vation of hops has been discovered in France.
Among the records of that kingdom, there is a
patent of donation so far back as the reign of King
Pepin, in which mention is made of " humolariee,"
which doubtless meant the hop garden ; and in 822
we find that the Abbot of Corby exonerated the
millers within his district from all services regard-
ing hops. From about that period the culture of
this plant spread over Germany, and was even in-
troduced into Sweden ; but it is remarkable that
so late as the 18th century, it was unknown in
Italy, which we presume could scarcely have been
the case, had it been in use among the Romans.

DESCRIPTION OF PARAGRELES.

The ruinous effects frequently produced by
storms of thunder and hail upon the crops have
led to the almost universal erection, on the conti-
nent, of these conductors, consisting of a thin mast
of fir, twice the height of an ordinary hop-pole,
having a sharp point, and an iron wire punning
straight down from the top to the bottom. They
are placed in rows among the vines, about one
hundred yards from each other. All the vineyards
of La Vaux and La Cote have, it is said, been pre-
served from tbe hail by means of this new invention.
Some say that clouds, whence a fall of congealed
drops would otherwise take place, are by these
means attracted and made to discharge the electric
fluid, or dissolve in rain. The following descriptive
and explanatory remarks on paragreles are quoted
from a continental journal : — " When made in the
simplest manner, these consist of wooden poles,
from 35 to 50 French feet high, and planted in the
firmest manner in the ground, on the top of each of
whichis fixedasharppointof yellow brass wire, about
the eighth of an inch in diameter : to the bottom of
this is attached, by means of a ring, another yellow
brass wire, about the sixteenth of an inch in di-
ameter, continued all the way along this pole to

three or four feet under the ground, and fixed to
the poles by small wire staples. From this de-
scription, it will be seen that paragreles are merely
lightning rods made in the simplest and cheapest
form, by which it is proposed to draw down the
electric fluid from the clouds, and by that means
to prevent the formation of hail. The paragreles
ought to be placed at the distance of 450 feet from
one another. When any tall tree happens to be
growing where the j)ole ought to be placed, the
trees may be made use of, instead of erecting a
pole,"

THE HORSE IN FIELD LABOUR.

It is a circumstance deserving of remark, that in
none of the earliest historical records of the Anglo-
Saxons or the Welsh, is there any allusion to the
use of the horse for the plough. Until a compa-
ratively recent period, oxen alone were used in
England, as in other countries, for this purpose ;
but about the latter part of the tenth century, some
innovation on this point was creeping in; and there-
fore a Welsh law forbids the farmer to plough with
horses, mares, or cows, but with oxen alone. On
one of the pieces of tapestry worn at Bayonne, in
the time of William the Conqueror (1066) there is
the figure of a man driving, a horse attached to a
harrow. This is the earliest notice we have of the
horse in field labour.

CALENDAR OF AGRICULTURE.

Continue the planting of trees of every kind,
the making of new hedges, and repairing of old
ones, the making and repairing of roads, and the
scouring of ditches and water-courses.

Continue ploughing in fresh weather; during
frosts, cart stones for drains or buildings, and earths
into heaps for composts.

Cut underwoods, and fill up vacancies by pitting
and layering. Continue the most careful attention
to all kinds of live stock ; feed regularly, both with
raw and steamed food ; give the same kind of food,
the same quantity, and at the same hour if possible ;
regularity has great effect in the feeding of animals,
as in most other branches of business. Store tur-
nips in dry weather. Thrash grain regularly, and
litter the cattle yards evenly and thinly with the
refuse straws. Reduce works of every kind into a
system, and see that no parts of that system get
disjointed and disarranged, and appoint every busi-
ness when and how to be performed.

All farming property should be insured. The
buildings are the landowner's property, and the
stock and crop belong to the farmer, and each party
should insure his own. A neglect on these
points shows a great dereliction of social duty.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

old

METEOROLOGICAL DIARY.

Barometer.

The

RMOMETER.

Wind and State.

Atmosphere.

Weat'r.

1854.

S a.m.

in. cts.
29.37

10p.m.

in. cts.
29.52

Min.

Max.

10 p.m.

Direction.

Force.

8 a.m.

2 p.m.

10p.m.

Oct. 22

Westerly

strong

cloudy

sun

fine

dry

29.42

29.37

Westerly

gentle

fine

cloudy

fine

showery

' 29.43

29.13

W. & S. E.

gentle

cloudy

fine

showery

29.10

29.27

N. East

var.

cloudy

fine

wet

29.52

29.91

w. s. w.

airy

fine

cloudy
cloudy

fine

dry

30.19

30.30

S. by West

gentle

fine

dry

30.31

30.26

S. by W.

lively

fine

cloudy

fine

dry

30.14

30.17

S. by W.

lively

fine

sun

fins

dry

30.18

30.12

South

airy

fine

sun

fine

dry

30.10

30.20

S. Westerly

airy

fine

sun

fine

dry

Nov. 1

30.33

30.35

S. s. w.

airy

fine

sun

cloudy

dry

30.36

30.23

s. s. w.

gentle

cloudy

fine

dry

30.23

30.26

N. West

gentle

fine

sun

clear

dry

30.23

30.04

N. W., W.

lively

cloudy

showery

30.02

30.12

N. W., W.

lively

cloudy

fine

dry

30.30

30.43

W. N. W.

var.

fine

sun

fine

dry

30.51

30.43

W. S. W.

gentle

cloudy

dry

30.30

30.17

W. N. W.

calm

cloudy

sun

fine

dry

30.14

30.31

N. by East

airy

fine

sun

fine

dry

30.23

30.04

N. N. W.

lively

fine

sun

cloudy

rainy ni.

30.00

30.16

N. N. W.

gentle

haze

fine

cloudy

dry

30.22

30.20

W. N. W.

gentle

fine

sun

cloudy

dry

30.09

29.83

S. West

gentle

cloudy

hint of r.

29.66

29.50

S. East

gentle

cloudy

fine

rain

29.18

29.10

S. West

airy

cloudy

fine

rain

29.00

29.20

S., variable

var.

cloudy

fine

rain

29.33

29.41

N. East

strong

fog

cloudy

fine

rain

29.60

29.80

N. East

lively

cloudy

dry

30.00

30.09

37 .

N. East

lively

cloudy

fine

cloudy

dry

30.09

30.10

N. East

lively

cloudy

fine

cloudy

sprink.

Estimated Averages of November.

Barometer.
Highest I Lowest.
30.270 29.080

Real Average Temperature of the Period.

Highest.
50.0

Lowest.
39.47

Mean.
44.73

Weather and Phenomena.

October 22. Wind; lull at night. 23 to 25.
Weather change for rain. 26. Clearing at sunset.
27. White frost; after foggy night. 28 to the end.
Dry and sunny.

Lunations. — First quarter, 28th day, 7h. 4m.
afternoon.

November 1 to 9. A period of fine and dry
weather; it then changed, and on the 10th night
rain began. 11 and 12 were two fine days. 13 to
17 inclusive were more or less rainy— total fall

about 64 or 7-lOths of an inch. After the morning

fog of the ] 7th a fine and cutting north-easter set

in, and continued till the 20th, when a lull and a

change commenced.
Lunations. — Full Moon on the 4th day, 9 h.

1 m., p.m. Last quarter, 12th day, 10 h. 4 ra., p.m.

New Moon, 20th day, 1 h. 2 m., a.m.
Remarks connected with Agriculture.

— The late rains, though insufficient to fill the
ground so as to raise the springs, have done much
good to the herbage and green crops ; they have
also acted upon the land, and have again set the
ploughs to work. The seed-time has therefore
been propitious, as was the late profuse ingathering.
How much cause then we have for sincere thank-
fulness ! May the consumers of bread be enabled
to have abundance, without that very low price
which might induce profligate waste. At present,
however, bread is too dear.

Croydon, Nov. 21. J. Towers.

0 o

646

THE MRMEE^^S MAGAZINE^

AGRICULTURAL REPORTS.

GENERAL AGRICULTURAL REPORT FOR

NOVEMBER.

Since we last wrote, very great progress has been
made m ploughing and sowing, in nearly all parts
of England, with the land in remarkably fine con-
dition for the reception of the seed-furrow. The
present high prices of wheat have, it would appear,
acted as a great stimulus to the farmers in this
particular; and we learn that large additional
breadths of land have, this season, been laid down
for wheat, under the well-grounded impression
that that crop will be more remunerative than
spring corn. From several quarters we have re-
ceived advices, stating that the yield of the new
wheat is proving much smaller than had been anti-
cipated at the close of harvest operations. It may
be perfectly true that in some portions of the
country the growth has not come up to the expec-
tations of the growers ; but no one can doubt for a
moment that the total yield is considerably in excess
of 1853, and above the average of most former
years : and let us remark, further, that the produce
of red wheat on much of the light and most ii^ferior
soils has proved as heavy as upon the best culti-
vated lands. This is a most significant feature in
the trade at this moment, and it is one calculated
to have more than usual influence upon value.
Not, be it understood, that we have any idea that
prices will rule low ; but the immense quantity of
red wheat which continues to be received at our
various markets indicates that there is no want of
supply, whatever may be advanced to the contrary;
and in order to show that abundance actually
exists, we m.ay notice some anxiety to realize at
present rates, because there is a possibility of a
decline in them. Certainly, there are circuir, stances
in operation which tend to shake confidence in
any advance. Our New York letter informs us
that purchases of flour to some extent had been
effected there for shipment to England, and that
the outflow of Indian corn to the United Kingdom
was enormous. This resumption of trade is not
favourable to a rise in price here; on the contrary,
it will, no doubt, induce great caution on the part
of dealers generally, in laying in stock. The aboli-
tion of the corn monopoly in Egypt— the Pasha
having disposed of the whole of the Government
stores, and thrown open the trade — has released a
large supply of produce, which is now on its way
to England ; and the chances of the Danube being
completely opened for commerce has led to large

purchases of wheat at Ibraila for spring delivery —
subject to certain conditions — as low as 19s. per
qr. With all these features in the market, how-
ever, v/e can scarcely anticipate what maybe termed
heavy importations for aconsiderable period ; indeed
until the war with Russia is brought to a close, any
accumulation of stock here will be wholly out of
the question. Scarcity, however, need not be ap-
prehended, because we are now offering a much
higher price for grain than any other nation; hence
we may naturally infer that to this market the bulk
of the surplus produce of the world will be directed.
The recent decree of the Emperor of the French on
the subject of distillation has resulted in somevv'hat
large supplies of grain being purchased here for
Belgian account, and has created a demand for
malt for brewing purposes, arising from the scarcity
of wine in most of the departments in France.

The yield of spring corn, especially of barley, is
turning out well ; but its general quality is by no
means prime. Prices keep up remarkably well,
and there does not appear to be any chance of a
serious decline in them.

The potato crop has nov/ been raised, and it is
gratifying for us to observe that our previous ob-
servations on this head have proved correct. That
the total produce is enormous — after making due
allowance for losses by disease— is evident; yet the
high value of grain has had the effect, combined
with a large consumption, of enhancing the quota-
tions ; and it would appear that, as we have no
reason to look forward to any large importations
from abroad, consumption must consequently
be almost wholly met by home produce. Really
fine potatoes will command a high range of value
during the whole of the winter. The improvement
in the quotations during the month has been 20s.
per ton. In Ireland and Scotland the growth has
been large, and of fine quality ; and steady supplies
are coming to hand from those quarters, though
they are not so large as we have noticed at some
corresponding seasons.

There has been considerable activity in the
markets for live stock, especially for prime animals,
which have continued extremely scarce and dear.
For several months past a great scarcity of prime
beasts and sheep has been complained of, and great
difficulties have been experienced on the part of
butchers in obtaining adequate supplies to meet the
wants of their customers. The numerous Govern-
ment contracts for live stock have taken off large
additional numbers of good and useful beasts.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

547

ilorvever.. as regards the feeders, we do not think
that the profits have been large; in point of fact,
owing to the great difficulties which have been ex-
perienced in fattening the stock, we know of some
severelosseshavingbeen sustained — half-fat beasts,
after being kept in the stalls for several months,
having produced no more than when purchased in
a lean state. As regards sheep, there has been a
great deficiency in the weight and condition. We
may state, however, that a very large supply of fine
beasts will be shewn on the great market-day next
month, and we may therefore anticipate the accus-
tomed supply of beef for Christmas consumption.

The hop trade has continued in a healthy state,
notwithstanding that unusually large supplies of
hops (nearly 8,000 bales) have come to hand from
the continent and from the United States. Selected
new qualities have realized £21 per cwt. It is
asserted that the bulk of the hops received from
Germany are old English qualities "worked-up"
and repacked. Of course dealers are on their
guard in this particular, and a few brewings will
speedily determine the value of these arrivals.
Their price is certainly tempting ; and it would be
as well for us to observe that the present duty is
only 20s. per cwt., to be increased to £'2 10s. after
July next, in the event of our next crop turning
out well.

From Ireland and Scotland we have received
dull accounts respecting the corn trade. The fall
in prices has not been large, though somewhat in
excess of the decline at Mark-lane and in Liver-
pool. The extent of the surplus produce of wheat,
barley, oats, and potatoes now on hand tends to
show that, with good prices in England, the ship-
ments will be large between this and the end of
February.

REVIEW OF THE CATTLE TRADE
DURING THE PAST MONTH,

Although fair average supplies of stock have
been on sale in our leading markets, we have to
report considerable firmness in the general demand,
and an advance in the quotations. Really prime
animals, both beasts and sheep, have been unusually
scarce, and commanded corresponding prices, the
range in value having continued heavy. This is the
cas§ in nearly all parts of the United Kingdom,
and is evidently the result of the inferior quality of
the cattle-food produced in 1853. Stall-fed beasts
and sheep have increased in weight very slowly ;
and we may safely calculate upon prime animals
commanding high prices for several months. The
supply of food is now much larger than for a consi-
derable period, the turnip and carrot crops beingfuU
average ones ; hence, stall-fed animals will now fare
much better than they have done for some months

past. Breeders are now realizing very large profits ;
but those of the feeders are smaller than we have
ever known them, owing to the great present defi-
ciency in weight compared with the period at which
many of the beasts and sheep were first purchased
— in other words, stock has not fattened satisfac-
torily, notwithstanding that very few instances of
disease have been noticed.

The great scarcity of rough fat has led to consi-
derable firmness in its price, and the tallow market
has been considerably influenced by the falUng off
in the supply. As regards linseed and rape-cakes,
we may observe that the demand for those articles
has ruled brisk, and that the quotations have
steadily improved. The best town-made linseed
cakes are now worth £12 10s. per ton. We have,
however, received a steady influx of linseed from
India, but large quantities have been sold for ship-
ment to France, Holland, and Germany.

The future value of live stock is fully expected to
rule higti; indeed, present appearances of our mar-
ket indicate even a higher range in the quotations.
Prime beasts and sheep will, no doubt, keep up
their price, and we see no reason to anticipate any
decided dechne in the quotations of inferior breeds.
The aggregate imports of foreign stock into the
United Kingdom have been smah, compared with
several previous years, and not the slightest im-
provement has taken place either in their weight or
condition. The following are the arrivals into
London :— Head.

Beasts 7,120

Sheep 16,604

Calves 1,108

Pigs - 369

COMPAKISON OF IMPORTS.

Nov. Beasts. Sheep. Calves. Pigs.

1853 .... 7,390 .. 22,565 .. 1,629 .. 919

1852 3,102 .. 18,152 .. 1,215 .. 42/

1851 ....6,279 .. 22,866 .. 1,409 .. 1,127

1850 .... 5,928 .. 17,662 .. 1,058 .. 1,486

1849 ,...4,228 ., 14,204 .. 618 .. 409

1848 3,488 ., 13,424 .. 669 . . —

1847 3,486 .. 16,213 .. 667 . . 41

Annexed are the total supphes of stock, Enghsh
and foreign included, shown in Smithfield : —

Head.

Beasts , • - 23,442

Cows 515

Sheep 121,031

Calves 1,848

Pigs 2,726

COMPARISON OF SUPPLIES.

Nov. 1853. Nov, 1852. Nov. 1851,

Beasts 25,760 23,063 23,583

Cows 562 462 435

Sheep 127,150 ....108,975 115,770

Calves 2,615.... 1,958.... 1,718

Pigs ..,,., 2,790 2,669 3,210

o o 2

546

TUE fAKMEil'S MAGAZINE.

The arrivals of beasts from the northern grazing
districts have amountedto 10,600 short-horns; from
other parts of England, 2,000 of various breeds ;
and from Scotland, 310 Scots. About 500 beasts
have made their appearance from Ireland, chiefly
via Liverpool. Beef has sold at from 3s. 4d. to 5s.
2d,; mutton, 3s. 4d. to 5s. ; veal, 4s. 2d. to 5s.
6d.; and pork, 3s. 4d. to 5s. per 8lbs. to sink the
oiFals. The prices obtained in the same month in
1853 were : — Beef, from 2s. 6d. to 4s. 6d. ; mutton,
3s. to 5s. 2d. ; veal, 3s. 4d. to 4s. 8d. ; pork, 3s.
4d. to 4s. lOd. per Bibs.

Newgate and Leadenhall markets have been
firm for each kind of meat, as follows : — Beef from
3s. 2d. to 4s. 8d. ; mutton, 3s. 4d. to 4s. Sd. ; veal,
3s. lOd. to 5s. 2d.; pork, 3s. 4d. to 5s. 2d. per 8
lbs. by the carcass.

WEST GLOUCESTERSHIRE.
The operations of the agriculturist at this season of the year
afford but a limited scope for observation, yet they are of a
moat interesting character. Provision for the future supplies
of " the staff of life " is the most prominent feature ; and that
is proceeding under the most favourable auspices. It is im-
possible that the weather could have been more favourable.
Erequeatly has it happened that so much rain hasfallea during
the mouths of October and November that the land could not
be worked, and the operation of wheat-sowing has in many in-
stances been of necessity deferred till after Christmas. How-
ever, under such circumstances the practice may be acknow-
ledged as a succedaueum ; the crops are undoubtedly not
equivalent to those which are planted at this the more legiti-
mate period. The same remarks apply to wheat sown after
swedes, mangel wurzel, or other roots, which render it impera-
tive to postpone the " seedness" till the laud is cleared, which, if
wet, cannot be done till spring. This year, that ueeesaity does
not prevad, as there canuot be a more favourable opportunity
for drawing off the roots and storing them ; and the advan-
tages of doing so, rather than eating them off with sheep, can-
uot fail to be acknowledged, when the value of a wheat crop is
taken into estimation. Stimulated by the good prices which
have ruled the markets, every available acre is appropriated to
the culture of wheat, and a considerable quantity has already
been planted. There has been just a sufficient quautity of
rain to cause the land to work admirably, and, tempting as
prices have been, farmers have not been induced to divert their
labour from their fields to their thrashing floors for the pur-
pose of immediate sale, feeling the necessity for providing a
future supply under the most favourable auspices with a con-
fidence that no important decline in the markets would be pre-
judicial to their interests. Upon this point the non-
agricultural public should not be led astray by the supposition
that farmers have been withholding supplies to enhance prices ;
they have been acticg on a sound policy, alike beneficial to
themselves and to the community, by sedulously providing
for future wants. It sometimes happens that persons in their
excess of zeal do much injury to the cause they would pro-
mote, by promulgating opinions and introducing fallacies
which are extravagant, ridiculous, and inapplicable. There is
no produce wtiich the laud gives forth of greater importance
to the country than wheat; ; ud although the potato to a cer-
tain extent supplies a substitute, it can only be accepted in a
limited degree. It is a source of much gratification tliat the
potato crop is so abimdant, and the tubers so excellent in
quality. The produce of the dairies — a staple commodity in
this district — i-i much complained of; many of the farmers de-
clare that theirs is deficient of that of a good year by one-third.
This may probably be somewhat exaggerated ; but it is quite
certain the produce is considerably below an average. Never-
theless tae markets are in a normal condition, rather inclined
to depression, and not equivalent to the rates for other descrip-

tions of agricultural production. This may be accounted for
in some degree by the high price of bresid, for it is an unfortu-
nate fact that there is many a labouring man who is compelled
to eat his dry crust without the relish of a piece of cheese.
The produce, in cheese, from a dairy cow on good land, in a
favourable season, in this district, is estimated from 3 cwt.
2 qrs. to 3 cwt. 3 qrs. The profit arising from the sale of the
calf, butter, and the value of whey for the pigs, may be com-
puted at £5 per annum. It is calculated that a cow consumes
the hay and grass grown on three acres of land. On this im-
portant point of agricultural economy no improvements have
been introduced, while in other branches of farming the march
of intellect has made rapid strides. This cannot be attributed
to the farmers' wives devoting their attention to their pianos,
for there is not an average of one in twenty throughout the
dairy farms of Gloucestershire. It would be fortunate if they
were moreuumerous,inasmiich asa tastefor refinement is always
accompanied with a taste for improvement. The same inade-
quate accommodation forfhousing the dairy cows prevails now
as it did in the time of our grandfathers. In the winter season
the cows range the fields during the day, to the infinite detri-
ment of the land and their own condition. The scanty herbage
which they collect is sour, and consequently deficient of nutri-
tive properties ; to make amends for which, considerable quan-
tities of hay are supplied ia open cribs, much of which is
wasted. The dairy-farms being nearly all laid ^own to grass
roots, are only cultivated in small and very inadequate quan-
tities; and ou some they are not cultivated at all. Having uo
supplies of that kind to meet the wants of the herd, the hay-
ricks suffer to a vast extent ; and hence the necessity of allot-
ting so much as three acres of land to the maintenance of a
cow. When spring arrives, the animals are too frequently
turned into the pasture to meet the young grass as it grows, to
the material detriment of the future crop. But these have been
the customs for ages, and will continue to be so till some im-
pulse arises to stimulate landlords and dairy farmers to more
profitable arrangements. The most prominent of these are
convenient and well-constructed home-stalls, where the cows
may be secured from the inclemency of the weather, and sup-
plied with food in the most suitable and economical manner.
It is well known that the expenditure of carbon under the in-
fluence of a cold atmosphere is so greatly augmented, that
additional food of a superior quality is required to supply the
waste of the system ; that not being provided for, the animal
loses its condition. The health of the cow during the period
of gestation is of great importance to her.self and to her off-
spring. Subservient as they are, under the present mode of
treatment, to these effects, it is palpably evident that each cow
recjuires a greater amount of hay during the winter than she
would do if comfortably housed ; and even with that extra
allowance, when spring comes she is in a weakly state ; and
having to undergo the debilitating effects of parturition, and
the grass with which she is supplied being young and deficient
in nutritive properties, much profitable time is lost before she
is in a state to give down an abundant flow of milk. The suc-
cessful operations of the farmer are so intimately blended with
the welfare of the community, with respect to the amount of
supplies which they are enabled to produce on the most
economical principles, that every subject is of vast interest to
the public.

NORTH AMPTONSHI RE .
We have just completed one of the finest autumnal wheat-
seedings ever remembered. A large breadth has been got
into the ground in very good condition, and is now beginning
to make its appearance above ground, and is not likely to
suffer much injury from slugs, owing to the dryness of the
season. The yield of the last harvest is now proved to be a
full average produce, not so productive per acre as some per-
sons anticipated after harvest, owing to the thinness of the
crop on the ground. Barley is coming to market very freely,
but of coarse quality. Beans, peas, and oats are very fine ia
quality, and are well stored. The winter ploughing has com-
menced under favourable circumstances, the land being very
sound and dry — so much so, that many localities are suffering
much inconvenience from the short supply of water. Sheep
are doing well at turnips, and mutton sells freely at stationary
prices. Beef that ia fat sells at high prices ; but as the ma-

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

549

jority of the grass-fed beasts are very thin, and are sent away
in low condition for fat stock, they yield a very small profit
for the summer's grazing, while they cannot be replaced under
a high figure for store cattle. Corn has advanced since Sep-
tember very considerably, and is now selling at prices that
will repay the cultivator of the soil. The labourers are gene-
rally well employed ; but the high price of food will very much
affect the working classes, aud cause a limited demaud for all
other articles besides food. The present war is the gre»t
absorbing question, coming home to the domestic hearths of
our nation, telling the sad tale of slaughter and of death,
causing the widow's heart to bleed, and many homes to be
the scenes of domestic sorrow. May He, in whose hands are
the hearts of all men, cause this great national calamity to
pass away, and that the " sous of war" may return to their
fatherland, to pursue the more peaceful arts of husbandry. —
Nov. 34.

SOUTH YORKSHIRE.

A more remarkably dry seed time has seldom occurred than
the one which is now being brought to a conclusion. During
October little or no rain fell ; and it was only until nearly the
middle of November before many districts were set free, and the
plough once more in operation. In lowsituations, especially where
there had been much summer fallowing, this drought was to a
certain extent an advantage which was not lost sight of.
Upon Hght sandy soils, also, most of the sowing had taken
place beiore general rain came, and in these instances the plaut
has come up extremely even, aud now presents quite a vigorous
appearance. Upon wet limestones, which have only bec-n
sown of late, we expect to see a patchy growth, aud the
probability is that much seed will not be enabled to get up
for some time to come. Nevertheless, all matters con-
sidered, the breadth of land already sown, and wiiich
will be' sown in a few days, is quite up to the average
of years ; and hence, so far, the prospect of another year is
far from that gloomy condition at one time dreamed of. Since
harvest we have been extremely busy in thrashing, and
the steam-engine has not been for a moment idle. Here and
everywhere around, our farmers have sent supplies of corn to
market as freely as though there was the absolute certainty of
another bountiful harvest, and, satisfied with ruling prices,
they have shown no disposition to aggravate a state of affairs
alike critical to all classes. Looking at the deliveries so far, a
far larger proportion of the new crop of wheat has gone into
consumption than for very many years past. Although
samples in a general way do not run fine and large — accounted
for by the " quick dyins'' of the plant — the wheat weighs
fully as good as estimated, while the quantity is an excess of
from ten to fifteen per cent. Barley was never known
to weigh so well, although it is small, and many
samples present the appearance as though they had been
" rated" — i. e., heated in the sheaf. One sample lately exhi-
bited astonished the eyes of many of our old farmers, being
found to weigh no less than Glilbs. per bushel, or 17st. 81b.
the sack of four bushels. The taking up of potatoes is fully
completed. A more bountiful and healthy produce has not
been known for the last ten years. Turnips are extremely
variable in quality and quantity, although they have generally
suffered from mildew. They realize a high price per acre ;
and it is a question whether sheep will be fed with any amount
of profit. Stock of all descriptions in the early part of the
month gave way in value. Strong beasts, from 203. to 30s. per
head ; aud lambs, from 5s. to 63. each : since then there has
been a turn in favour of the seller with sheep, and former
prices are fully supported for anything good in quality.
Within the last few days, we have had strong frosts, and
winter seems disposed to set in earlier than usual.

THE WHEAT WEEVIL— A practical agriculturist re-
commends farmers who desire to rid themselves of the weevil,
to apply one pound of salt to every two bushels of wheat in
the bin. He saya he has seen the experiment tried, aud hence
vouches for its succeas. — American Paper.

AGRICULTURAL INTELLIGENCE,

FAIRS, &c.

ANDOVER FAIR.— The number of sheep exceeded con-
siderably the usuaj average, amounting by careful calculation
to about 60,000. The best things realized late rates, whilst
the middling and inferior qualities were a trifle lower. A rrime
pen of lambs exhibited by our respected townsman, T. H.
Mortimer, Esq , realized 423. per head. The business gene-
rally was dull, and many lots returned unsold. The show of
horses, piga, and horned cattle was indifferent.

BA.RNET FAIR, Nov. 21.— This fair, which has been
established within the last few years, has become very at-
tractive, the supply and attendance of buyers increasing
yearly. The show of cattle was extraordinarily good, botli as
to numbers and quality, the first-class beasts of all breeds, for
stall feeding, realising prices never exceeded. The second
quality and young inferior animals also sold freely at a con-
siderable advance in prices, the great abundance of winter
provender, no doubt, materially assisting keeping up both
prices aud demand. Milch cows were in great demand, and
prices ruled high for all sorts. Good in-calf heifers sold
freely at £12 to £15 per head. The horse fair was scantily
supplied with young horses, which sold well at high figures.

DOUNE LATTER FAIR,— The show of black cattle, in
point of numbers, was rather above an average, and the wea-
ther being good, the stock had a tolerable appearance, although
the quality was not so good as at the first of the month.
There were certainly more heifers than stots, the forooer of
which met a fair sale, but the latter suffered a slight reduc-
tion, as on previous markets. The large prices asked in the
morning kept buyers back ; aud the buyers were equally de-
termined to purchase cheap, but the misunderstanding lay in
consequence of the high prices got last month ; jobbers im-
mediately went to the north, and purchased largely for the
market; but, alas ; there were not buyers to pick them up:
there were no Englishmen, and and very few border dealers.
In fact, the only parties who were there to pick up any por-
tion of the stock were those men who like small lots and great
bargains. Tnere was little or no business done in the morn-
ing ; but about eleven o'clock a few sales were etTected
amongst the better kinds of cattle, heifers, and stots, the for-
mer of which took the lead, as has been the case at all recent
markets. Shortly after, a little was was given in on the part of
the holders of heifers, when sales were immediately eflected,
and continued until few good lots remained unsold. This gave
a stimulus to young Highland stots, and sales amongst this
kind were made at prices according to quality, little short of
last Doune market. This market was, upon the whole, stiff —
almost unsaleable.

GARSTANG FAIR, (Wednesday last.)— The stock shown
was principally by the jobbers, and therefore not of much in-
terest to the farmers. The trade was among themselves ; a
few of the Highland Scots obtained about £10 each, a higher
price than had been obtained.

MARLBOROUGH SHEEP FAIR.— There was an average
number of sheep penned in our fair on Thursday last, and
most of the ewes exhibited were in prime condition. Business
commenced very brisk at 38s. per head for ewes, and 24s. for
lambs, and a steady sale continued throughout the morning.

MORETON-IN-THE-MARSH FAIR.— Notwithstanding
the unfavourable state of the weather, there was a good show
both of sheep and cattle, which met with ready sales. Mutton
fetched from 6d. to V^d. per lb. ; beef, 6 Jd. to 7d.

RUGBY FAIR. — The demand for first class hunters and
carriage horses was greaterthan the supply, consequently they
made high prices. The best seasoned saddle horses were
purchased for the army, and great suras were given.
Yearling and carts colts were very high. Worked cart horses
of good breed fetched as much as £60 each. Nearly
all the horses were disposed of. The supply of fat beef aud
mutton was not so large as is usual at this fair. Runts aud
stores were very plentiful, and sold at improving prices. All
the beef was sold by ten o'clock, at from 6d. to d^d., but the
sheep were slower of sale, at from 6d. to a shade over 6^d. per
lb., at which price they cleared out. Taking the fair on the
whole, it is many years since it was so satisfactory to the
graziers.

TRURO FAIR. — There was a large supply of stock, espe-
cially sheep, of which about 1,000 were penned and 100 not

550

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

penned, and nearly the whole of these were sold. The niiaiber
of bullocks sold at the fair was 290. Fat cattle realised from
5Ss. to 60s. per cwt. ; store bullocks from 42s. to 453. per
cwt., and siieep sold at about 6d. per lb,

YEOVIL FAIR was fully attended by dealers. There was
a very full supply of both horned cattle and sheep, the latter
being uncommonly numerous. Beef sold well, and good
sheep soon changed hands, but sheep on the whole were not
in good request.

YORK JAIR. — Although only nine days after Soulmas
fair, and seven days afttr our last cattle market, we had again
a large supply of all kiuds of kan beasts for grazing purposes,
which met with fair demand, at prices tending down'fvards
upon last rates. Many were left unsold. The supply of
calving and dairy cows was above the demand, which had the
effect of giving a check to their lata very high prices, leaving
a number unsold. The horse fair was only small, the high
price of provender tending very much to check the demand,
and to cause a decline in price. There were some very good
two-year-old Irish colts pnd fillies for grazing purposes, which
met with fair demand at £10, £15, £20 to £25 each.

IRISH FAIRS.— Ballyeay.— As regards black cattle,
there was a good show, and prices were remunerative. Pigs
were at very high prices ; horses were a'so dear, but of a very
inferior quality ; and large sums of money apparently changed
hands. Clare. — Fat cattle sold from £10 to £14 ; milkers,
£8 to £15; three-year-oid heifers, £8 to £16. Pigs were
from 403. to 46s. per cwt. Killarnky was one of the
Jsi-gest and best supplied with stock known to have been held
for the last 40 yea.-p. Horned cattle rated rather high, and
t'le purchases were limited. Pigs were sold at the moderate
average rate of 40s. per cwt,, and consequently the sale of that
stiefies was brisk. The disappoiutment of a Cork buyer in
getting a naoney order for a large amount exchanged at the
Bank, tended, in a great measurt', to keep down the market,
as the expenditure of some £600 or £700 in a fair would very
natura'ly produce an opposite efftict. — Killarney Correspondent.
Strabane. — The supply of cattle was incst abundant. Milch
cows sold at high prices, and a large number changed hands.
There was a good show of horses, and a brisk sale at good
prices, especially for strong animals for farming purposes.
Pigs were m.uch lower in price, particularly youi:-g ones.

ECONOMY IN THE CONSUMPTION OF
THE TURNIP CROP, BY USING THE
TURNIP CUTTER.

In a season like the present, wheo the yield of turnips is
deficient in many parts of Great Britain, the following extracts
w:!l be found more than ordinanly interesting : —

The advantage (of using the turnip cutter) is twofold ; saving
th? teeth of old ewes, for which the Swedish turnips especially
are too hard ; saving the waste of this valuable root, which,
where partially scooped out by the sheep, is rolled and trampled
about with great waste. The economy effected by this ma-
chine has been stated to be no less than one-third of the whole
produce. If it be taken, however, at only a fourth or fifth,
why, it may be asked, has not every farm in the country been
long since furnished with this cheap apparatus ? — From Mr.
Pmey's Reports, in the Royal Agricultural Society's Journal;
article, by Mr. Pusey, on English Agriculture, 1840.

I have endeavoured to ascertain the profit of turnip cutting.
If, of two lots of lambs, the one received, during winter, cut
turnips, the other uncut turnips, the fold with cut turnips
would be worth 20 per cent, more than the other fold. The
former would sell for forty shillings a head if the latter fetched
thirty-two shillings, and the coat of cutting would be one
shilling per head, leaving seven shillings clear profit upon one
sheep. If this statement had been made by an amateur agri-
culturist, one would have been rather sceptical. It was given
to me word for word by two experienced practical farmers ; and
I only write it down from their mouths for the consideration of
their brethren in any benighted districts of England, or even
Scotland, if such yet there be. Let them consider that seven
shillings per sheep upon turnips comes to seventy shillings y^er
acre upon the turnip crop, near'y the average rent of laud for
the four years' course till the 'turnip comes round again. And

what is the investment of capital ? Five pounds for one best
Banbury turnip cutter, which will last for five years. We
ought to hear no more of the extravagance of high farming.
Your real spendthrift farmer is the man — penny wise and
pound foolish — who gives v,'hole turnips to his tegs, — Mr.
Pvsey's Paper " On the Progress of Agricultural Knowledge
during the last eight years." R. A, S. Journal, 1850, page 430.

GROWTH OF FLAX.

Sir, — Having read some articles in your journal with re-
gard to the growth of flax, and many letters thereon, I beg to
send you the account of the expenditure and receipt of my
crop for the year 1853. lu doing so, I may suy that for seve-
ral years I have grown flax, and it is an average crop. I have
heard of my neighbours growing three packs of 2401bs. per
acre ; I have never had the luck to do so. I have heard of
others grovang 20 bushels of seed per acre ; in that I have been
equally unfortunate, never having grown above 16 bushels, the
average being about 14 bushels. I have had alielgiaa (Clarke)
here, at Ivlr. Warnes' advice, bat was soon obliged to part
with him, his aver.jge dressing of flax being only about 41ba.
per day ; so I have of lata years been working on the old sys-
tem of dew-ripening, dryivig by fire, and baud-scutching, wait-
ing lu hopes of some machinery being brought out that will
ena'ile us to sell the flax straw, and not become manufacturers
of flax. I am sure t'ce process of devt'-ripeuing and drying by
fire is wrong, for if the weather is very wet you may not be
able at the exact time to take up the flax, and in drying by
fire you are very likely to weaken the flax, by over-doing it.;
but I fi'jd this old system pays better than the others I have
tried, ?aid I now beg to givs you the result of 14 acres of
flax: — KKPENDITURIJ;.

£ s. d.

28 bushels of seed, at 10s 14 0 0

Ploughing and harrowing, at 12s 8 8 0

PuUu.g flax, at lis. . . .' 7 14 0

Harvesting, at 53 3 10 0

Stamping 215 bushels, at Is 10 15 0

Dew-ripening 3 0 0

Dressing flax 24 4 0

Rent and rates, at £2 . 23 0 0

£99 11 0

RECEIPTS.

£ S. d.

,215 bmhcls of seed, at 7s. 3d 77 18 9

13 packs* 461b3. of flax, at £6 79 3 0

4 packs 761bs. of tow, at £2 8 12 8

5h tons of flax straw, at £5 27 10 0

£193 4 5

* a pack ireiglis 2i011js.

I hope this may encourage some to turn their attention to
the growth of flax, especially in the western counties, so ad-
rairabiy suited for it in soil and climate.

I fear I am almost too late for asking gentlemen to weigh
their mangel wurzsl and swedes. I have heard of 40 tons of
mangel and 40 tons of swedes; but I fancy tliey have judged
by the eye, and not by the scales. My mangel, which I have
just taken up and weighed iu different places, just comes to
19 tons 5 cwt. per acre, and considered here an excellent crop.
I always listen to those wonderful crops with very great sus-
picion ; and, even if true, believe the costs of raising them
more than the profit. I am, sir,

Hembury Fort, Honiton. Wm. Potstee.

EATING OFF MILDEWED GREEN CROPS.

Sir, — The query on this subject in your former number did
not escape my notice, but, being addressed to feeding practice,
I had no recollection of cases at the moment to refer to ; nor
can I now answer as " A Veterinary Surgeon," my profession
being that of chemist. In Johnson's "Treatise on Salt," p.

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

561

105, it is said—-' Mouldy hay put together with salt, from
8!b9. to 251b3. per tou, was baiter relished by the cattle, and
did them mors goon, thau sound hay stacked without salt, and
this in manv iustaaces." Aad it is probable that other green
fond would be cured by the like prcce=s. Veterin^iry surgeons
will probably agree with me, that the admis'/lon mio tlie
stomach and intestines of those deccying agents, mould aud
irildew, iu their active state, is not only trying to the digestion,
but in danger of producing diseased actions in the passages.
Salt is most likely the best counter-agpnt, even when the
fodder must be eaten at once. But I think it much better,
when practicable, to salt it in ; that is, to let it lie with the
salt long enough entirely to kill the mildew, which, iu due
proportion, it does in a few weeks, while it preserves the fodder
aud keeps it from heating. As a general rule, we may say lib.
of salt per cwt. ; but this will require variation, aceordiEg to
the degree of mildew.

Plymouth, Nov. 22. J. Peideaux.

[advertisement.]
MCCORMICK'S REAPER.

[The following letter bears so explicit a testimony to the
merits of Mr. M'Cormick's reaper, that we tiiink it deserves
to be made public. — Mechanics' Marjasine.']

West Blanernc, by Dunse, Nov. 7, 1854.

Sir, — Previous t3 receiving Mr. M'Kenzie's note I had
made up my miud to let you know how your reaper succeeded

last harvest. It gives me much pleasure to say that it haa
given me complete satisfaction, and I am now satisfied that it
will not be easily beaten. By its aid I cut twenty-five acres
of wheat, and ten acres of black oats, both very heavy crops,
and partially laid, in a very superior manner, without stoppage
from breakage. The reason of my having cut so small a pro-
portion with yours this year is, that having got one of Cross-
kill's Bell's, I used it chiefly, as I wished to give it a fair trial.
Having done so, I have no hesitation ia saying yours is the
best, for the following reasons : It is easier for the horses. It
will cut a great deal more corn iu a day. It is much easier
taken up, doing at least one-third more and much cleaner. It
can cross the riilges, while the other cannct. It is not liable
to break or go out of order, nor is it liable to choke either
with damp corn or clover. I may state, that the whole of my
people prefer your reaper, not excepting the man who takes
the corn off; he does not find the work much severer than
with the other, if any.

I may also add, that I cut with, your reaper about ten acres
a day ; eight men or women and four boys take up, bind, and
stock twelve acres in a day of ten hours. Last year, as I for-
merly liientioned, I cut eighteen acres of wheat in twelve
hours ; the field v.as level, the crop not laid, though pretty
strong.

I have no hesitation in saying, that were your reapers
knov%'n, they would be more generally used, as they deserve to
be. — I remain, sir, yours, &c.,

Mr. M'Connick, London. Archibald Dalgleisii.

REVIEW OF THE CORN TRADE

DURING THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER.

The extraordinary excitement and enormous rise
in prices of wheat by which the months of Septem-
ber and October were characterized, have been suc-
ceeded by comparative calm, and the fluctuations
have not been nearly so violent and extreme this
as in either of the preceding months just named.
Whether quotations have yet attained the maximum
we will not pretend to decide ; but at the moment
there is an unwillincrness to purchase more than
absolutely needed for immediate use, which may be
viewed as an indication of a want of confidence in
present rates being maintained. Under these cir-
cumstances, there is not the slightest disposition
to enter into speculative investm.ents, and a very
small excess of supply over what is required for
consumption suffices therefore to produce a tempo-
rary depression. Though unwilling to enter into
predictions in regard to the future, we consider
ourselves called upon to furnish all the information
we are able to afTord on those point which are cal-
culated to have an effect hereafter one way or the
other on prices, leaving it to our readers to deter-
mine for themselves to which the preponderance is
to be given. In the first place, we feel bound to
repeat what we have on former occasions asserted —
that the result of the last harvest, taking the United
Kingdom throughout, has proved decidedly favour-
able. That there was an excess over good average
years in the produce of almost all kinds of grain

may be regarded as an admitted fact ; if tlierefore
there had been anything like the usual amount of
old corn on hand w^len the new became available,
we should, in all probability, have been able to do
with comparatively very small importations from
abroad. We have no means of knowing what the
stocks in farmers' hands amounted to at harvest
time ; but we have a very good test, viz., the quan-
tity of old wheat brought forward after harve'St.
Judging by this, no other conclusion can be arrived
at than that, with the exception of that held in rare
cases by wealthy individuals, the stocks must have
been exceedingly small. Before the middle of Sep-
tember it had become rare to meet with a sample of
old wheat in any of the chief markets in the agri-
cultural districts, and soon afterwards the supplies
were composed almost wholly of the new crop.
There appears therefore to us to be no doubt on
that point, and we are of opinion that at the time
of harvest the reserve of wheat in farmers' hands
was reduced into a smaller compass than on any
previous occasion for years. It becomes a question
therefore whether with the extra quantity produced
in 1854 the quantity of home-grown wheat in the
United Kingdom was, say at the close of Sep-
tember, much in excess of what was held at the
corresponding period of the preceding year. If
this should really be the case — and that it is so,
many hhjh authoritieo on the corn trade stoutly

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

maintain— it would follow that we shall require to
raport largely during the time which will have to
elapse before another harvest can be secured. The
average annual imports since the commencement of
free-trade have been in wheat about 3,000,000 qrs.
and flour 8,000,000 cwts. Last year, owing to the
extreme deficiency of the harvest, they considerably
exceeded the usual average— 5,000,000 qrs. of the
former and 10,000,000 cwts. of the latter article
having been imported during the tu'elve months
ending 10th October, 1S53. Notwithstanding
what has been said regarding the similarity of our
position in regard to stocks of home-grov^n wheat
in the autumn of 1S53 and 1854, we trust and
believe that we shall not need so great a supply from
abroad as that represented by the above figures.
Our reason for this belief is, that early in Septem-
ber we had still considerable reserves of old foreign
v/neat in granary; and though these have since dis-
appeared,they have gone in the place where English
v.'ould have been consumed. It must nevertheless
be admitted that even with economy in consump-
tion, which the pi'esent high prices will no doubt
enforce, we shall need to import, if not as much as
during the average of the last seven or eight years,
pretty close upon it. This being admitted, it be-
comes a subject of the utmost importance to as-
certain from whence Great Britain can obtain the
assistance there is reason to suppose she will need.
Difficulties of no ordinary character present them-
selves : firstly, the war in whic^ we are engaged with
Russia; and further, tlie exhaustion of old stocks in
all parts of the world, in consequence of the enor-
mous drain which was occasioned by the immense
wants of this country during last year. Notwith-
standing the great inducement which the rates some
. time past current in our markets must have held out
to foreign shippers to consign to England, theyhave,
from the absolute want of old wheat, been unable
to send any quantity of importance. This cannot
be more strikingly shown than by giving the im-
ports into the United Kingdom during the last
three months, with the receipts in the corresponding
quarter of 1853, and bearing in mind at the same
time that the inducement has been about the same,
our prices being nearly as high now as they were
then.

The figures stand as follows : —

.... qrs.

1854.

1853.

iUoutti endiQg
Sept. 5.

Month endiu^
Sept. 5.

Wheat

Barley . . .

Oat3

Rve

198057

96759

125069

441

34490

50T9

62847

228213

546924

68721

166231

7102

30994

Peaa „

3103

Maize

l'"lour ....

.... cwts.

3S1611

Wheat qrs,

Barley „

Oats „

Rye „

Beans „

Maize „

Plour cwts

Oct.

91247
38385
61053

2432
51359

5130
44224
90187

Oct. 5.

468888

56452

158633

7373

35705

4742

125512

463545

Nov. 5.

Wheat qrs

Barley „

Oats „

Rye „ I

Beans „

Peas „

Maize ,

Flour cwts. I

75517
10474
26864
23
S1496
15054
41732
29066

Nov. 5.

425866

34928

8887S

1895

17844

7491

5S685

302355

There has been no want of will to consign, but
it has been impossible to collect any large quantity
of new corn from the farmers during the time they
were occupied with sowing, and old stocks as al-
ready intimated were as nearly exhausted at harvest
on the Continent of Europe as with us. Since the
seeding of the land has been completed, the farmers
have brought forward rather better supplies ; the
effect of which has been, increased shipments from
the Baltic ports, and a cessation of the demand in
our markets for wheat for export to France, Hol-
land, and Belgium. The calm which has reigned
in the trade during the last few weeks may be
readily traced, firstly, to the sudden falling off in
the export demand (which had, up to the end of
October, been considerable,) and, further, to the
knowledge that some quantity of wheat has been
shipped from the Baltic, from Denmark, Sweden,
and the nearer continental ports, for Great Britain.
When, however, we examine the matter closely, we
find that the supply to be expected is, after all, but
insignificant. The entire quantity now on passage
to Great Britain, from the places named, does not, we
are inclined to think, exceed 100,000 qrs. ; whereas,
we imported in the month ending 5th December
lastyear,4 1 1 ,1 21 qrs. wheat, and 294,2 12 cwts. Flour.
It must further be borne in mind, that continued
shipments from the Baltic cannot (even if the corn
was there ready to ship) take place, as winter may
be said to have set in, and, according to all proba-
bilities, the navigation will speedily become impeded
by ice.

A careful review of the foregoing remarks will,
we think, satisfy our readers that low prices cannot
be looked for during the approaching winter, and
it even appears doubtful whether quotations have
yet attained the maximum point. One point of
great importance must not be overlooked, viz., the
entire loss of the Black Sea supplies, not only in
as far as relates to Great Britain, but as influencing
the trade all over the Mediterranean ; at Marseilles
alone large quantities of Black Sea wheat are re-

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

553

quired annually ; besides which, the Italian ports de-
pend habitually on the shipments from Odessa, &c.,
for a considerable portion of the wheat they con-
sume. Shippers in the North of Europe have
therefore no competition to apprehend from the
South, and we cannot expect that they will consign
freely except well satisfied that high prices will be
obtained. What America may be able to do is at
present involved in considerable doubt. Notwith-
standing the repeated assertions made from the
other side of the Atlantic, that but little can reach
us from thence, we are still strongly of opinion that
it is only a question of price, and that if the tempt-
ation is strong enough, we shall find that the United
States and Canada will be enabled to furnish a con-
siderable quantity of bread-stuffs. The latest ad-
vices from thence state that a monetary crisis had
occasioned some pressure in the value of produce,
which must tell in favour of shipments to Europe,

We shall now give a retrospect of what has taken
place at Mark Lane since the close of last month.

The upward movement was then in full activity,
and continued for about a week afterwards, to
which has succeeded a profound calm; but, to pro-
ceed in regular order, we shall begin with the first
Monday in the month, the 6th instant. There was
on that occasion a somewhat less liberal supply of
English wheat than had previously come to hand,
but the demand was slow, the millers being ex-
ceedingly cautious, and the foreign demand (which
had, up to that time, been pretty active) having
suddenly ceased, a check was given to the upward
tendency, and the prices reahzed were very little, if
at all, higher than those current at the close of
October, During the succeeding week the demand
revived, and on the 10th instant the finer qualities
of English wheat sold at rates 3s. per qr. above
those previously paid ; this advance was, however,
with difficulty supported on the following market-
day, and since then the movement has been de-
cidedly towards a decline. No actual fall took
place until the 20th, and even then superior parcels
of white wheat could hardly be purchased cheaper
than before, but the general runs of red were 2s.
per qr, lower, and on Monday last a further reduc-
tion to the same extent took place. Good red
Kent and Essex wheat, weighing 61 to 63lbs. per
bushel, may therefore now be quoted 73s. to 75s.
per qr., whilst the finest white still brings 78s. to
S3s. per qr. In addition to the usual arrivals
coastwise, considerable supplies have reached us
by the different lines of railway ; and the quantity
which has come forward altogether has been suffi-
cient to render the absence of foreign of compara-
tively little importance ; but it may be questioned
whether farmers will be able to continue to supply
so freely for any lengthened period. Tlie arrivals

of foreign wheat have not exceeded 18,000 qrs.
during the four weeks ending Saturday, the 25th
instant, being less than what is generally regarded
as an average supply for a single week. The pro-
spect of larger receipts in the course of a short
time — it being well known that there is some quan-
tity now on passage for this port — has, however,
had considerable influence, and buyers have con-
fined their operations strictly to what they have
needed for immediate use. They have, however,
found it impossible to work the new English with-
out a mixture of old, and holders of the little in
granary being perfectly satisfied that what remains
is sure to be wanted, have shown no disposition to
lower their pretensions. The decline on English
has consequently produced no corresponding re-
duction in the value of fine old foreign wheat,
which is nearly, if not quite, as valuable now as it
was when last we addressed our readers. Mode-
rately good qualities of red cannot be bought below
78s. to SOs., and really fine Rostock is held firmly
at 90s., and even higher, whilst choice high-mixed
Danzig (which is unusually scarce) brings 90s. to
93s. per qr, in small quantities. We have during
the last fortnight had a demand for the lower de-
scriptions of Mediterranean and Black Sea wheat
for Ireland, and the advices from thence tend to
induce the belief that the inquiry will increase
rather than fall oflf. The arrivals off the coast from
ports east of Gibraltar have been quite insignificant;
indeed, beyond a few cargoes from Egypt, hardly
anything has come forward. At one time, as much
as 53s. to 54s. per qr., cost, freight, and insurance,
was paid for Egyptian Saidi wheat, but since then
sales have been made at 5Js. to 52s. per qr; the
difference in quality has, however, been nearly
equal to the difference in price. There have been
offers of wheat from the Lower Baltic ports, at
prices varying from 68s. to 72s. per qr., cost,
freight, and insurance, for new wheat, weighing
from 6l up to 62Hbs. per bushel, and some bar-
gains have been closed at these rates. A few small
cargoes have also been offered from Antwerp ; but
to this a stop is likely to be put, as a measure has
passed the House of Representatives to prohibit
exports of wheat from Belgium, which will most
likely come into force immediately.

The top price of town-made flour was advanced
to 73s. per sack on the 13th inst. This step was
most likely taken by the millers to protect them-
selves against making forward sales, the orders they
then had on hand being quite sufficient to keep
them fully employed for a time. The sale has since
been much less free, but as yet there has been no
talk of putting down the price. Town household
flour has, however, given way Is. to 2s. per sack :
C6s, was the current rate on the 13th; now good

554

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE,

marks may be bought at 64s. per sack. Norfolk
and other country flour has receded leather more,
the supphes having increased since the fall of rain
which took place in the early part of the month
enabled the water mills (which had for some time
been at a stand) to resume work. The supplies
from America have been so trifling, and the stock
remaining in warehouse has become so reduced, that
this description of flour has, like old foreign wheat,
commanded a relatively higher rate than English.
Holders have, in fact, refused to make the slightest
concession, and the best brands have sold in retail
at 48s. to 50s. per brl.

Up to very near thecloseof last month, barley of
home-growth came sparingly to hand, and of foreign
scarcely any supplies were received. Latterly,
however, farmers appear to have thrashed this grain
rather more freely, and the arrivals coastwise and
by rail have increased. During the first fortnight
in November we had rising prices, the advance al-
together amounting to 2s. to 3s. per cjr., and for fine
malting qualities 40s. to 42s. per qr. was at one time
paid. This rise was partly caused by an export de-
mand for Holland, and though the enquiry has not
wholly subsided as yet, it has fallen ofl', and the
maltsters having at the same time contracted their
operations, the above quoted advance has been lost ;
prices are consequently about the same now as they
were at the close of October. The market is still
very bare of foreign barley ; indeed, there is scarcely
any of good quality remaining, the stock consisting
of a few lots of Egyptian. There has, however,
been less doing in this description of barley than in
October, and the extreme terms then current have
hardly been maintained : 28s. 6d. to 29s. per qr. is
now about the value for barley weighing 461bs. per
bush.

Whilst barley was rising, malt also improved ;
but since the reaction in the price of the former
article, the latter has participated in the dov/nward
movement, bringing quotations back to about the
same point they started from in the beginning of
the month.

In addition to tolerably good supplies of oats
coastwise and per railway, we have had increase ar-
rivals from Ireland, and within the last week or
two upwards of 20,000 qrs. have come to hand from
abroad. The total supply, though considerably in
excess of what we have until very lately been ac-
customed to, has not been large, and the dealers'
stocks having been very largely drawn upon during
the last month or two, it does not appear probable
that any lastingimpressionwillbemadeby this arrival
on prices. The changes have been as follows : on the
6th inst. a decline of 6d. per qr. took place; this was
more than recovered on the following Monday, but
with further arrivals the succeeding week, prices

again receded Is., and on Monday, the 27th, a fur-
ther fall of Is. per qr. took place. The entire fall
from the rates current when we last addressed our
readers has amounted to Is. 6d. to 2s. per qr. on
new oats, whilst on old the decline can scarcely be
considered more than 6d. to Is. per qr. From
abroad the supplies must necessai'ily be small until
next spring, and as there are scarcely any old of
home-grov/th in remaining any part of the kingdom,
it is very improbable that the latter will become
cheaper.

The supplies of beans have about kept pace with
the demand, and no quotable alteration has taken
place in prices. The inquiry for peas has been
rather slow ; but with the approach of winter the
demand for this article usually increases, and holders
do not appear at all anxious to press sales : the best
boilers have been held all through the month at 50s.
to 54s. per qr., and other sorts at proportionate
rates.

The want of supphes of Indian corn from
ports east of Gibraltar has greatly circumscribed
the transactions ; the receipts have been confined
almost entirely to a few cargoes from America,
which have found ready takers at high prices. The
demand was more lively previous to the 13th than
it has been since, this article having as usual
sympathized in the depression in wheat. Ireland
must sooner or later feel the absence of the supplies
of maize from the Black Sea ; and we have no
doubt that she will have to purchase low-priced
wheat in the English markets as a substitute.

We have not allowed ourselves much space for
comment on the present state of the corn trade
abroad, still we must give a brief outline of the
contents of the most recently received advices from
the different foreign markets, to complete our
review.

Commencing with the North of Europe as the
quarter from whence we have to look for supplies,
we may state that great exertions have been used
by the Baltic merchants to profit by the state of
things here; and though the warehouses were
nearly as empty there at harvest time as they were
elsewhere, sufiricientwas collected from the farmers
of the new produce to enable shippers to load the
vessels which were to be procured, and consign-
ments to some extent were made for Great Britain
in the month of October, and continued in Sep-
tember. Of what has been despatched, compa-
ratively little has yet reached us ; and we are in-
clined to think that there may be about 100,000 qrs.
now on passage for the United Kingdom, including-
the shipments from Denmark, Sweden, Lubeck,
Bremen, and Hamburg.

Two serious obstacles now present themselves to
further shipments — firstly, tlie scarcity of vessclt-',

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

555

and consequent high rates of freight; and further^
the advanced period of the season. From Danzig
we learn, under date of 24th inst., that the harbour
was covered with floating ice, and if the frost should
continue for a few days longer, the navigation
would become exceedingly difficult and dangerous.
We have similar reports from Konigsberg, Stettin,
Rostock, and even from Hamburg and Holland,
and it appears therefore that an early closing of the
navigation is highly probable.

As regards prices, the fluctuations have been
very much the same as with us; the communica-
tion by telegraph is now so easy and regular, that the
changes at Mark-lane are known in most of the con-
tinental markets afewhours after they occur, and buy-
ers and sellers regulate their operations accordingly.
There was, as v/ith us, a rise in the early part of the
month; and there has since been a decline.

The shipments from Danzig in the month of
October amounted to 871 lasts; and from Stettin
probably 25,000 to 30,000 quarters of wheat, of
which 121 lasts had been for London and 51 for
Liverpool, the remainder for Holland and Belgium,
have been despatched vx'ithin the last six weeks or
two months.

From Rostock tho exports have not been so
large ; and from the other Baltic ports they have
been on a much smaller scale.

The latest accounts from Danzig state that the
trade had, in consequence of the more subdued
tone of the London advices, become quieter than
it had previously been. Still, moderate qualities
of wheat weighing Gllbs. were worth 66s. to 6Ss.,
and for a small lot of fine highmixed of 63lbs-
weight, 73s. per qr, free on board had been paid a
few days before. Vessels were very scarce, and
freights high.

At Konigsberg, on the 20th, new red wheat,
weighing 6 libs, per bushel, was worth 62s. to
633. ; whilst for mixed and highmixed, 63s. up to
67s. per qr. free on board had been paid. As much
as 7s. 6d. per qr. freight had been given for Hull.

From Stettin we learn that vessels had been in
great request, and very high rates of freight were
demanded by the captains of the few ships in port.
Good qualities of red wheat were then held at 64s.
to 643. 6d. per qr. free on board.

At Rostock, quotations were rather higher than
at the last-named port.

In Holland, prices of wheat have kept so nearly
on a level with our own, that exports to England
or imports from hence have been alike out of the
question.

From Belgium a few reshipments of foreign
wheat were made in the early part of the month ;
but further exjjorts are to be prohibited.

The latest accounts from France state that, after

a period of great depression, a decided rally had
taken place in the value of wheat and Flour; and
there is rea;;on to believe that that country will
stand in need of large imports before the autumn
of next year. Should this be the case, something
like the same competition which took place last
year between English and French buyers, in the
Baltic and in America, might again be vv'itnessed,
which would of course have the effect of driving
up prices at those places where any surplus for
export might exist.

In the Mediterranean, wheat— and, indeed, all
kinds of grain — continue to bear a high value; and
the prohibition of exports from Italy ren;iains in
force.

The reports from America, per the Arabia, speak
very despondingly of monetary affairs in the United
States ; and so pressing had become the want of
cash, that holders of breadstufis, as well as of other
produce, had been forced to realize at receding
prices. Our New York letters reach up to the 14th
inst. Rather an important fall had occurred there
in the value of Flour since the beginning of the
month, and there v.'as then much anxiety to sell ;
good shipping brands were then obtainable at equal
to 36s. per brl., but for extra sorts 40s. up to 43s.
per brl. was still asked. The suppUes from the in-
terior were increasing, and a further reduction in
prices was considered m.ore than probable. The
shipments up to that period had, however, been
trifling — say from 1st September only 7,182 brls.,
against 428,674 brls. same time last year. Good
supplies of wheat had come forward, aud prices had
in the course of a single week given way 10 cents,
per bush. ; quotations were then, for red western,
7ls. lid., red southern 65s. 8d. to 67s. 2d., and
for Canadian 67s. 5d. to 69s. 2d. per qr. free on
board. The exports from 1st September had been,
of wheat, 16,953 bush., against 2,561,008 bushels
corresponding period last year. In Indian corn
an increase is shown, the shipments having been
1,140,484 bushels, against 230,i62 bushels.

CURRENCY PER IMPERIAL MEASURE.

ShilluiKt per Ciu^rtor

Wheat, Essex and Kent.wliitf,. .. 75 to 79 extra 81 84

Ditto, red 70 73 „ 74 75

Norfolk, Lincoln. & Yoiksh., reu. , 70 72 „ 74

Barley, msltiiiff, new. . 33 34 .... Chevalier.. 36 39

M.ALT, Esses, Norfolk, aud Suffolk, new 71 73 extra 74

Ditto ditto old 69 71 „ 73

King3ton,"Waro, and towu made,!iew73 75 „ 76

Ditto ditto old 71 73 .. 74

Rye — — 44 47

Oats, English feed .. 26 30 Potato.. 29 31

Scotch feed, new 29 30, old 31 32 . , Potato 32 34

Irish feed, white 28 SO fine 33

Ditto.black 26 28 iine 30

Beans, Mazagan 4'.i 45 „ 47 51

Ticks 45 47 „ 49 53

Han-ow 48 50 „ 52 56

Pigeon 48 54 „ 56 62

Pbas, white boile/s 47 51.. Maple 41 43 Grey 38 40

Flour, town made, per sack of 2301bs. — — „ 68 73

Households, Tovni 649. 66s. Country — „ 62 65

h'<;rfolk and Sii'Jolk, ez-sbip , . , , — — „ 57 58

656

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

FOREIGN GRAIN.

Shillings per Quarter

WHEATjDantzic, mixed. . 77 to 80 high mixed — SSestra 90

Konigsberg 75 73 „ — 83 „ 85

Rostock,iiew 79 81 fine 85 „ 90

American, white. ... 77 81 red 75 80

Pomera.,Meckbg.,andUckermk.,red 77 80 extra.. 85

Silesian , „ —

Danish and Holsteiu „ 73

Rhine and Belgium „ —

Odessa, St. Petersburg and Riga. . 68

Barley, grinding 28 32 DistiUiug. . 31

Oats, Dutch, brew, and Polanda 293., 31s. .. Feed .. 27
Danish & Swedish feed 293. to 303. Stralsund 30
Russian...... 28 31 French., none

Beans, Friesland and Holstein , 42 46

Konigsberg.. 44 48 Egyptian.. 38 40

Peas, feeding 42 45 fine boilers 45 50

Indian Corn, white 44 48 yellow 44 48

Flouk, French, per sack (none) — —
American, sour per barrel 40 42

— white — —
80 „ none

— old — —
73 fine — 75

33
29
31

none
sweet

45 48

IMPERIAL AVERAGES.

For the last Six Weeks

Wheat.

Barley.

Oats.

Beans

Peas.

Week. Ending:

s. d.

Oct. 14, 1854. .

57 0

30 6

25 4

44 4

39 0

Oct. 21, 1854..

57 6

31 3

25 9

44 10

40 9

Oct. 28, 18.54..

60 7

32 1

26 6

45 4

42 8

Nov. 4, 1854..

68 0

33 6

27 3

47 6

44 9

Nov. 11, 1854..

72 1

35 0

28 7

43 10

48 2

Nov. 18, 1S54..

72 11

34 7

28 4

49 2

49 8

Aggregate average

of last six weeks

64 6

32 10

27 0

46 8

44 2

Comparative avge.

same time lastyear

70 9

41 2

24 11

48 6

52 4

Duties 1 0

1 0

COMPARATIVE PRICES AND QUANTITIES
OF CORN.

Averages

from last

Friday's

Averages from the correspond.

Gazette.

Av.

ing Gazette in 1853. Av.

Qrs.

s. d.

Qrs. s. d.

Wheat. .

. 132,655 .

. 72 11

Wheat.... 65,173 ..72 7

Barley. . .

. 85,433 .

. 34 7

Barley 98,943 . . 42 3

Oats . . .

. 15,778 .

. 28 4

Oats .... 15,100 . . 26 0

Rye

347 .

. 41 2

Rye 236 .. 43 11

Beans . . .

. 4,776 .

. 49 2

Beans .... 4,497 ..526

Peas . . .

. 2,465 .

. 49 8

Peas .... 2,386 . . 56 7

DIAGRAM SHOWING THE FLUCTUATIONS IN THE
AVERAGE PRICE OF WHEAT during the six
weeks ending Nov. 18, 1854.
Oct. 14.

Price. |

72s.

lid.

72s.

Id.

6S3.

Od.

60s.

7d.

57s.

6d.

573.

Od.

"Oct 21.

1 ..

Oct. 23.

Nov. 4.

Nov. 11.

•• r

Nov. 18.

JLi

PRICES OF SEEDS.

BRITISH SEEDS.

Linseed (per qr.). . sowing — s. to 743. ; crushing 628. to 683

Linseed Cakes (per ton) £12 10s. to £13 Os.

Rapeseed (per qr.) new 663. to 72

Ditto Cake (per ton) £6 ISs. to £7 58,

Cloverseed (per cwt.) (nominal) .... — s. to — s

Mustard (per bush.) white 8s. to 9s., .. brown old 10s. to 13s

Coriander (per cwt.) new — s. to — 3., old 20s. to 24s

Canary (per qr.) 50s. to 6O3

Carraway (per cwt.) new — s. to — s., old — s. to — s

Turnip, white (per bush.) — a. to — s Swede — s. to — s

Trefoil (per cwt.) new 20s. to 22s

Cow Grass (per cwt.) — 3. to — s

FOREIGN SEEDS, &c.
Linseed (per qr.). . . . Baltic, 54s. to 62s.; Odessa, 60s. to 658

Linseed Cake (per ton) £12 Os. to £13 Os

Rape Cake (per ton) £4 15s. to £5 53

Hempseed, small, (per qr.). . — s., Ditto Dutch, 463,

Tares (per qr.) new, small — s., large — s

Rye Grass (per qr.) 28s. to 35s

Coriander (per cwt,) 10s. to 13s

Clover, red (nominal) — s. to — s

Ditto, white — s. to — s.

HOP MARKET.

BOROUGH, Monday, Nov. 27.

The demand for all hops of good quality has continued

steady during the past week, and fully as much money

for such descriptions has been obtained. In other sorts

there has not been much business doing.

Hart and Wilson.
WORCESTER, (Saturday last.)— The supplies of
new hops from the planters have nearly ceased, and only
14 pockets passed the public scales to-day ; prices in
consequence continue to advance where business is done ;
a few are held for much higher rates in the spring.

COVENT GARDEN MARKET.

Saturday, Nov. S5.
Most things in season continue to be well supplied. Pears con-
sInI of Crassane, Glout Morceau, Chaumontel, Duchesse dMn-
gouleme, and Passe Colmar. Of Jersey Chauraontels large quan-
tities have arrived, ar.d trade for theiQ is heavy at much lower
terras. Good dessert Apples continue dear. Oranges are getting
plentiful, as are also Nuts of all kinds. Chesnuts Jetch from
20s. to 24s. per bushel. Cucumbers vary from 8d. to 6d. each.
Good Spanish Onions may be bought for 2s. per dozen.
Carrots and Turnips are abundant. Potatoes mainlain their
prices. York Regents still fetch from 105s. to 120s., Kent
Regents 120s. to l-25s , Seoteh do. 100s. to UOs., and Cups 90s.
to lOos. per ton. Lettuces fetch fiom 9d. to Is. per score.
Mushrooms are nearly over. Cut flowers consist of Pelar-
goniums, Chrysanthemums, Camellias, Chinese'jPrimroses, Heaths,
Carnations, and Roses.

VRVIT.

Pineapples, perlb.,Ss.6d to 6s. \ Apples,per bush.,As.Gd.io 10*

Grapes, hothouse,p. lb. is.toSs. I ,, des.,per doz., 6d. to is.

Pcari,2)er?ialfsieve,^s.foGs. j Nats, Cob, 2}crlOO, lids.

VEGETABLES.

Broccoli, X)er bundle, fd. to \s.
Cabbages, per doz., 6d. to \s.

„ red,2Jer doz.,2s.to4s.
Brussel Sprts.,p.lif.s., ls.to2s.
Potatoes, per ton, SOs. to 120s.

,, per c)vi.,'^s. Sd. to 5s.

,, per bush.. Is. 6d. to Us.

,, yrame, per lb., Hd. to Is.
CarroiSfper bunch, Sd. to Gd.
Turnips, do., 2d. to id.
Cucumbers, each, \s.Gd. to 2s.
Tomatoes, perhlj. s.,S,s6dtois6d
Spinach, p. sieve. Is. to \s. Gd.
Beet, per doz., 6d. to is.
Celery, per bundle, Qd tols 3d.
Endive, per score, 9d. to Is.

Onions, per bush. , 2s. Sd. to is.
Leeks, per bunch, 2d. to 3d.
Shallots, per lb., id to Gd.
Garlic, per lb., Gd. to 8d,
Iiadishes,per doz., Sd.to \s.
Lettuce, Cab.,p. score, 9d to\s.
,, Cos, per score, Sd to \sGd
Small Salads, p. pun ., 2d to 3rf.
Horseradish, p. bundle, 2s.toT>s.
Mushrooms, p. pott., \s to \s.Gd.
Chillies, per IdO, \s. to \s. Gd.
Capsicums, p. 103, is. to 2s.
Sorrel,p.hf .sieve, Gd. to Is.
Artichokes, doz., 5s. to Gs.
Parsley, p. bunch, 2d. to id.
Sweet herbs, x>cr bnch.,2d. to id.

POTATO MARKETS.

SOUTHWARK WATERSIDE.

Monday, Nov. 27.

During the past week there have been no arrivals

coastwise, owing to contrary winds, and a small supply

by rail, which has caused a clearance to be effected at an

advance on last week's prices. The following are this

day's quotations : —

s. d. 8. d.
Yorkshire Regents red. ... 110 7,0 to 120 0

Essex ditto lOS" O'— 115 0

East Lothian ditto 105 0.— 115 0

Perthshire, Fifeshire, For-
farshire ditto 100 0 — 110 „ 0

Reds and Cups 95 0—105 0

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

557

BOROUGH AND SPITALFIELDS,

Monday, Nov. 27.

Last week's imports of foreign potatoes were only 101
bags from Rotterdam, 9 bags and 1 brl. from Hamburg.
The arrivals of home-grown potatoes are but moderate,
and a steady business is doing, at, in some instances, en-
hanced quotations. Scotch reds, 100s. to 115s.; do.
Regents, 105s. to 120s. ; York Regents, 105s. to 125s.;
Lincolnshire do., 100s. to 115s. ; other kinds, 90s. to
110s. per ton.

COUNTRY POTATO MARKETS.— York, Nov. 18,—
A good supply of potatoes sold at from 2s. 6d. to 2s. 8d. per
bushel— 8d. to 9l1. per peck. Leeds, Nov. 21— We had a
small show of potatoes — wholesale 9M. to lO^d. per 211bs. ;
retail 3d. per 51bs. Malton, Nov. 18. — A moderate supply
of potatoes sold at from 6d. to 9d. Sheffield, Nov. 21. —
A good supply of potatoes sold at from 8s. to lOs. 6d. per
load of 18 stones. Richmond, Nov. 18.— Potatoes 2s. 8d.
« per bushel. Manchester, Nov. 21.— Potatoes 8s. to 12s.
per 2521bs.

PRICES OF BUTTER, CHEESE, HAMS, &c.

Butter, per CTVt. s. s.

Friesland ...... 106 <ol08

Kiel 106 110

Dorset 110 116

Carlow 100 104

Waterford .... 98 100

Cork,neiv 90 100

Limeric/i 90 98

Sligo 96 102

Fres/i, per doz. lis.Od. 16s. Od.

ENGLISH BUTTER MARKET.

November 27.
We have no alteration to note either as to trade or
price.

Dorset, fine Il0s.to112s.percwt,

Bo., middling 100s. to 104s. „

Fresh 10s. io 15s. per dos.

BELFAST, (Friday last.)— Butter : Shipping price, 963.
to lOOs. per cwt. ; firkins and crocks, lOd. to lOJd. per lb.
Bacon, 543. to 64s.; Hams, prime 74s. to 783., second quaUty
60s. to 64s. per cwt.; mess Pork, 90s. to 92s. 6d. per brl. ;
beef, 105s. to 1203. Od.; Irish Lard. in bladders, 668. to "Os.;
kegs or firkins, 62s. to 643. per cwt.

Cheese, per cwt. s.

Cheshire, new.,.. 66 to 80

Chedder 68

Double Gloucester 60

Single do. .. 60

Mams, York, new..,„ 90

100

Westmorela7id . .. 88

ttO

Bacon,Wills., dried.. 72

„ green.,.. 64

Butter.

Bacon.

Dried Bams,

Slees Pork.

Nov.

per cwt.

per cmt.

per cwt.

per brl.

24.

s. d. s. d.

1850..

74 0 80 0

34 0 44 0

56 0 58 0

1851.,

77 0 84 0

45 0 47 0

60 0 62 0

58 0 62 0

1852..

76 0 82 0

50 0 54 0

64 0 66 0

72 6 75 0

1853..

95 0 100 0

54 0 58 0

70 0 76 0

85 0 87 6

1854..

90 0 95 0

54 0 60 0

68 0 74 0

90 0 95 0

CHICO

RY.

LONDON, Saturday, Nov. 25.

The imports of Chicory, this week, are 550 bags 58 tons from

Harlingen, and 392 hags from Hambro'. As the supply of both

Eniilish and loreign is increasing-, Ihe demand is heavy, and

prices are with difficulty supported.

Per ton.

Foreign root (in £
bond)Harlingen\0

English root {free)

Guernsey 9

Tork 9

0
0

10
10

0
0

£ t. £ s.

Boasted ^ ground

English ...14

Foreign 30

Guernsey ...... 26

HAY MARKETS.

Saturday, Not. 25.
SlIITHPIELD.— A fair average supply, and a steady trade.
CUMBERLAND.— Trade firm, at full quotations.
WHITECHAPEL.— Both hay and straw in fair request, at full
prices.

At per load of 36 trusses.

Smithfleld .

Cumberland .

Whitechapel.

Meadow Hay

Clover

Straw

55s. to 96«.
60s. 120s.
26«. 32#.

56s. to lOils.
60s. 116*.
27s. 83s.

55s. to 96s.
60s. 120«.
26*. 32s.

WOOL MAKKETS.
ENGLISH WOOL MARKET.

BERMONDSEY, Nov. 25. — The state of the trade is
exceedingly depressed, and several failures in Yorkshire are
reported this week. This, with unfavourable news from
America, renders the trade exceedingly perplexing, and the
tendency of prices is downward, with very limited demand,
and prospects gloomy till after the turn of the season, when it
is hoped the spr .ng trade will revive. Quotations must be
considered nominal at present ; there is, however, a fair
demand for flannel and blanket Wool.

s. d. s. d.

Down ter/s 1 0 to 1 1

Down ewes 1 0 — 1 0^

Half-hred Wethers 10 — —

Half-bred hoggs 10 — 1 0^

Kent fleeces 1 1 — 1 1-|

Leicester fleeces 10 — 1 0|

Flannel wool,. 0 10 — 12

Blanket wool ^ 0 9 — 11

BRADFORD WOOL MARKET, Nov. 23.— The demand
is as dull as it can be ; and things are daily getting worse.

LEEDS (ENGLISH) WOOL MARKET, Nov. 24.—
There is no change to report this week ; the business done
has been limited.

LIVERPOOL WOOL MARKET.^Nov. 25.
Scotch Wool. — There is still a fair enquiry for Laid
Highland Wool at late rates, white is also in rather more re-
quest. Cheviots and crossed are only in moderate demand, at
late rates.

s. d. s. d.

Laid Highland Wool, per2ilbs 9 6 <o 10 0

White Highland do .12 0 12 6

Laid Crossed do,, unwashed ,,,, 12 0 13 0

Do. do. .mashed 12 9 14 0

LaidCheviot do., unwashed,... 13 0 14 6

Do. do. .washed ..=... 16 6 17 8

White Cheviot do do. 24 0 26 0

FOREIGN WOOL MARKETS.

The market has been quiet, and without any change of im-
portance in the quotations.

LEEDS (FOREIGN) WOOL MARKET, Nov. 24.— The
foreign and colonial trade, as stated in last week's report, ia
still rather inactive. Prices remain firm at recent quotations.

The series of public auctions of colonial and foreign wool
concluded on Tuesday, November 15th ; the quantities in
the catalogues being 14,662 bales Australian wool, 20,519
Port Philip and Portland Bay, 5,064 South Australian, 3,471
Van Diemen's Land, 1,972 New Zealand, 6,882 Cape of Good
Hope— Total, 52,570. 2,870 East Indian. Total, 55,440 bales
colonial. 303 Merino Odessa, 224 Spanish, 447 black and
Portugal, 646 Buenos Ayres, 234 Egyptian, 2,180 Russian,
Turkey, &c.— Total, 4,031 bales foreign, and 1,050 ballots
Peruvian.

Colonial 55,440 bales.

Foreign 4,031 „

Total 59,471 „

The information from the various brokers is as follows ; —
In the interval since the last sales, stocks in the hands of
dealers and manufacturers have become light, and though the
worsted trade (except for Goat's wool and Alpaca) is still in
a very unsatisfactory state, and some of the mills restraining
their power of production from want of confidence, demand,
and remuneration. The buyers for woollens, notwithstanding
the diminished requirements for export, appear still to have a
steady trade, and have taken this year a larger proportion of
German wool, the price of which being well has continued to
act favourably on the better descriptions of colonial clothing
wool. We have had throughout the series brisk biddings from
a full attendance of buyers, and are happy to be able to report
the firm maintenance of former rates (except perhaps for lambs'
wool), and in some instances an advance of O^d. to Id. per lb.
— say on favourite clips of Port Phihp, on the better descrip-
tion of clothing, and on Cape wool. Buyers for foreign ac-
count have been steady purchasers, and taken probably 10,000
bales. It is hardly necessary to add, that we are much in-
debted to this branch for the support of the market, while the
slightly depressed character of our own unassiBted demand

THE FARMER'S MAGAZINE.

leaves our allies a favourable opportunity for their operations.
We regret to find the Port Philip wools continue to arrive in-
ferior to last year, both in conditioD as well as jjrowth ; and
we fear that strong indications are to be seen of the truth o
the report of a diminished clip of 1854 in the reduced pro-
portion of lambs' wool to the several flocks. The very satis-
factory prices which the faultless wools of Port Philip, as also
of Portland Bay, commanded, will, we trust, be a stimulus to
tlie settler to renovate his breed, and to extend the culture of
sheep, as the wool of both these districts has become essential
to the upholding of au importaut branch of our manufacture,
viz., the Bradford trade, which, although in a sadly depressed
state of late, will ever continue to be the staple branch of the
woollen fabric. The Sydney flocks do not generally show the
same neglect ; and we hope the very high prices many of the
wools of this colony, as well as of the JMoreton Bay district
realized, will compensate the producer for any increased expense
he may have been at for the preservation of his flocks.
Amongst the Adelaide wools were some quite equal in condition
and quality to any former year, and they were duly appre-
ciated. The Van Diemen's Laud wools were of an average
quality: the prices of these were relatively easier than most
other descriptions — not being much in demand for the con-
tinent. New Zealand wool gives most favourable indications
for the future, as likely to be a most serviceable description ;
but at present it is anything but in favour with buyers, owing
to the sadly irregular manner it is packed — greasy wool being
intermixed, with washed wool, so much so as almost to bear the
appearance of a desire to deceive. Nothing can be more im-
politic than to bring the wool of this colony into disrepute, by
irregular packing: prices realized for wools well got up must
sufficiently remunerating to ensure more care in this respect.
Cape wool, notwithstanding the qauntitj', was larger than last
sales, and all cleared offat the full advance, much being taken for
f xport. Skin wool was in good demand for the Kochdale market,
and, and, the quuntity being limited, advanced prices were
paid. Lambs' wool was less required than last sale.s, which
was fortunate for the buyers, as the sup[dy of fair quality
faultkss descripfions was exceedingly small; as it was, the
prices paid- in many instances v/ere extravagant ; nothing was
to be had excepting at a considerable advance on last sales.

Merino Odessa v/ool was again in very fair requeat, and was
taken almost exclusively for home consumption; the large
arrivals over land into France and Belgium preventing foreign
buyers from affordint^ that assistance we have experienced.
It was, however, all sold at a small advance upon last sales.

Spanish wool was only in limited demand, and could not
be moved in any quantity except at a reduction from pre-
vious prices.

The Buenos Ayres was of a very inferior description, mostly
common wool, for which the use is at all times restricted.
Merino quality, both washed and unwashed, would have real-
ized high prices, as all wools of this description have ad-
vanced, while low wools have been sadly depressed.

In coarse wools Egyptian 1st white were the only sorts
that seemed at all higher ; and, as these bright silky wools are
much appreciated, and cannot be superseded by East India, it
affords every encouragement for their importation.

The stocks of wool on hand have very much fallen below
that of last year, in consequence of the shortness in the im-
portation of foreign wool, and largely increased exportations
of colonial, foreign, and British grown wool during the nine
months from the 5th Jan. to 10th Oct. this year, as may be
seen by the following statements, viz. : —

1853. 1854.

The importation from British pos- lbs. lbs.

sessions out of Europe was .... 46277,276 50,187,692

The importation from other parts. . 37,586,199 27,006,173

The espoit of colonial wool waS ..
And of foreign ;

1833. 1854.

lbs. lbs.

4,577,812 11,767,232

2,134,626 4,614,247

6,712,438 16,381,479

Shewing au increase in export of . . 9,669,041 —
The export of British grown wool

was 4,755,443 9,477,396

Showing an increase in export of . . 4,721,953 —

Or nearly double.
So that, by taking the increase of exports of

colonial at 7,189,420

That of foreign at 2,479,621

And that of British at 4,721,953

We have a total increase in export of 14,390,994

And if to which be added the decrease of impor-
tation of foreign wool 10,580,026

24,971,020 ^
And deduct the only increase which has taken

place, viz, that of colonial 3,910,416

Shewing a decrease on the nine
months' importation of

83,863,475 77,193,865
— 6,669,610

We have a total deficiency for the last 9 montha of 21,060,604
Or of 70,202 bales of SOOlbs. each.

The prices current are : —

Australian.— Scoured fine Is. 9d. to 2s. 2d., do. skin Is.
4d. to Is. 7d., fine clean fleeces Is, 9d. to 2s. 3d., inferior Is.
4d. to Is. 6d., pieces and locks lOd. to Is., lamb wool Is. 5d.
to Is. 7d., unwashed fleeces lOd. to lid.

Van Diemen's Land.— Scoured fine is. 9d. to 2s. 2d.,
do. skin Is. 4d. to Is. 7d., fine clean fleeces Is. 8d. to is. lOd.,
inferior Is. 3d. to Is. 4d., pieces and locks lid. to Is., lamb
wool Is. 8d. to 2s. 2d., unwashed fleeces lOd. to Is. Id.

Port Philip.— -Scoured fine Is. lOd. to 2s. 2d., do. skin
Is. 4d. to Is. 6d., fine clean fleeces Is. lOd. to 2s,, inferior Is,
4d. to Is. 6d., pieces and locks lid. to Is. Id., lamb wool Is.
8d. to 2s. 2d., unwashed fleeces lOd. to Is. Id.

South Australian. — Fine clean fleeces Is. 5d. to Is.
7d., inferior Is. 3d. to Is. 4d., pieces and locks lOd. to lid.,
lamb wool Is. 5d. to Is. 7d., unwashed fleeces lOd. to lid.

Swan River. — Scoured fine Is. 5d. to Is. 7d., do. skin Is.
3d. to Is. 4d., fine clean fleeces Is. 4d. to Is. 7d., inferior Is.
2d. to Is. 8d., pieces and locks lOd. to lid., lamb wool Is. 5d.
to Is. 8d., unwashed fleeces 7id. to 92d.

Cape. — Scoured fine Is. Sd. to Is. 4d., do. skin Is. to Is.
2d., fine clean fleeces Is. 4d. to Is. 6d., inferior Is. Id. to Is.
2d., pieces and locks 7d. to Sd., lamb wool Is. 3d. to Is. 5d.,
unwashed fleeces 7d. to 9d.

New Zealand. — Fine clean fleeces Is. 3d. to Is. 7d., in-
ferior Is. Id. to Is. 2d., pieces and locks 9d.to lOd., lamb wool
Is. 3d. to Is. 5d., unwashed fleeces, 9d. to lOd.

First quality South American Merino pretty free from burr
Is. 3id., second do. do. lO^d. to Is., third do. do. 9d. to lOd.,
inferior and burry 6d. to 7d., low coarse and hurry 4d. to 5d.,
good Merino (greasy) pretty free from burr 6d. to 6|d., infe-
rior and burry 3d. to 4^d.

East India good white lOd. to Is., inferior 8d. to 9d., fair
yellow 6d. to 7d., inferior 4-2-d. to 5d„ black and grey l|d.
to 3d.

Shanghae (no first quality) second and middling 6d. to 7|d.

MANURES^

PRICES CUIIRENT OF QUANO.

Peruvian &uano per ton£ll 11 Ot0£]'2 0 0

,, D, Jir St class (damaged).. „ 10 10 0 U 0 0

Bolivian 6ua7io (none) „ 0 0 0 0 0 0

ARTIFICIAL MANURES, OIL CAKES, ^e.

mtrafeSoda „ 17 10 0 18 0 0

Nitrate Potash or Saltpetre „ 2.5 0 0 28 0 0

Sulphate Ammonia „ 17 10 0 18 10 0

Muriate ditto „ 22 0 0 23 0 0

Superphosphate of Liine ........ „ 600 0 00

Soda Ash or Alkali „ 000 800

Gypsum „ 2 0 0 2 10 0

Coprolite , 4 5 0 4 10 0

END OF VOLUME XLI.

Printed by Rogerson and Tuxford, 246, Strand, London.

^/4 ,

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